Ellie here. Happy Monday!

On Friday, I had the opportunity to speak at Silver Lake Intermediate School during their career fair. Here’s a photo of me and my mom’s class.

Me and my mom’s students at Silver Lake Intermediate School! (Ellie Bourdo / UpNorthNews)

It was so great to talk to them about what it means to be a journalist. Thank you to the staff for having me.

In other news, today is the anniversary of the Affordable Care Act being signed into law.  The ACA, signed by former President Barack Obama, expanded coverage to millions, eliminated lifetime limits, and protected people with preexisting conditions. I want to know how the ACA has impacted you. Let me know your thoughts.

Today, as the warmer weather approaches, we’re taking a look at some of the best dog parks in Milwaukee, and we’ve got another edition of the Badger State Buzz, to keep you up to date on some fun events happening around our state.

“Pelicans on Richmond Bay.” (Credit Jackie M.)

Local news is essential for democracy.

Our reporting cuts through false narratives, documents what’s actually happening in our communities, and provides voters with the clear, factual information they need—especially when the stakes are high.

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

❄️ Sugar on Snow, Saukville (March 24)

Welcome spring with maple sugaring demonstrations, student showcases, and outdoor activities.

⚾ Milwaukee Brewers Home Opener, Milwaukee (March 26)

Milwaukee’s baseball season kicks off with a home opener against the Chicago White Sox, followed by a preview of a new documentary honoring legendary broadcaster Bob Uecker.

🕺 Decades: Back to the 80s, Milwaukee (March 27-29)

Enjoy the decade’s biggest hits featuring iconic ’80s artists and arrangements by a Grammy©-winning conductor and three stellar vocalists.

🍺 Roar off the Shore Brewfest, Luxemburg (March 28)

Sample a variety of beers, wines, and local foods at this tasting event. Proceeds support community projects through the Kewaunee & Dyckesville Lions Clubs.

🍁 MapleFest at Glenna Farms, Amery (March 28-29)

Enjoy a family-friendly day with free pancakes, a self-guided maple syrup tour, cooking demonstrations, a petting zoo, and horse-drawn hayrides through the sugarbush.

💎 Rock, Gem & Mineral Show, Janesville (March 28-29)

Explore minerals, fossils, gems, and jewelry, enjoy hands-on activities for kids, watch live demonstrations, and visit the fluorescent mineral tent.

Your pup will have a blast roaming free at these top dog parks in Milwaukee. (Natalia Blauth/Unsplash)

In this screenshot from WisconsinEye, Rep. Christian Phelps (D-Eau Claire) speaks on the floor of the Wisconsin Assembly at the Capitol building in Madison on Feb. 19, 2026.

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Ellie Bourdo with stories from Holly Garcia and Pat Kreitlow. It was edited by Brook Bolen.

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