Ellie here. Thanks for starting your week with us.

Last week, we talked a lot about data centers, and I asked to hear your thoughts. This is what you all said:

“My thoughts have not changed regarding data centers. Wisconsin should say absolutely not to having them. Thats why we live here, so we can keep our pristine waters and not to have all the extra costs passed down to consumers.” — Patricia S.

“Wisconsin needs to eliminate the sales tax exemption. All Wisconsinites who pay taxes are paying for these data center companies to build and develop their businesses, and we often pay for water and electricity usage through raises in our rates. We do not benefit from their profits and our environment is damaged. In addition, they are often not good neighbors with noise pollution.” — Jackie B.

“AI data centers are an abomination. I object to unregulated AI that does not align with public interest. I object to the amount of energy and water use and its contribution to climate chaos. I object on the basis of land use and noise. I object to billionaire corporate takeover of the public interest.” — Laura B.

Thank you to everyone that shared their thoughts. Data centers will continue to be a large topic of conversation not just in our state, but across the nation.

A study done by the Pew Research Center found that more Americans say that data centers have a “negative effect on the environment, home energy costs and people’s quality of life nearby than say they have a positive effect.”

If you have any other thoughts about how data centers are impacting you or your community, I’d love to hear them.

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Click the badgers for a map to find an event near you!

Another Monday means another Wisconsin event roundup. Here’s what we’ve got going on in the Badger State this week:

🍎 Bayfield Apple Festival (Oct. 2-4)

This three-day fall festival draws tens of thousands of visitors each year and features fresh apples from local orchards, live music, a grand parade, contests, and plenty of autumn fun.

🎶 Chain O’ Lakes Blues Festival, Waupaca (Oct. 2-3)

Find your new favorite blues artist at this music festival at the historic Indian Crossing Casino, complete with great live music and a lively atmosphere.

🎤 Mt. Joy, Milwaukee (Oct. 2)

Enjoy a night of great live music from Mt. Joy, celebrating their 10-year anniversary at the Landmark Credit Union Live.

🌱 Cranberry Harvest Days at Wetherby Cranberry Company, Warrens (Oct. 3-4)

Get an up-close look at Wisconsin’s cranberry harvest with a tour of the marsh, a visit to the farm store, and an opportunity to stand among the floating cranberries in waterproof boots.

🎉 Cranberry Fest, Eagle River (Oct. 3-4)

Celebrate the cranberry harvest with a weekend full of fresh cranberries, cranberry-inspired food and drinks, arts and crafts, live music, and much more.

🎃 Nekoosa GIANT Pumpkin Fest (Oct. 3-4)

This unique fall festival is packed with carnival rides, tasty treats, local crafts, the iconic giant pumpkin drop, and plenty of giant pumpkins.

Milwaukee Brewers designated hitter Christian Yelich (22) reacts after hitting a pinch hit three-run home run in the eighth inning against the Chicago White Sox at American Family Field, Milwaukee, Mar 29, 2026. (Benny Sieu-Imagn Images)

Beerline Cafe, 2076 N. Commerce St., is a peaceful counter service restaurant offering vegetarian and vegan breakfast and lunch options. (USA Today via Reuters Connect)

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Ellie Bourdo with stories from USA Today Network via Reuters Connect and Ellie Bourdo. It was edited by Crystal Niforos.

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