Ellie here. It seems the storms just keep coming, with more in the forecast today. I hope everyone is staying safe!

Near me, we had tons of trees down, power lines broken, and branches littering the streets. There were internet outages across my town and hundreds of people without power. Some of the lakes are already at slow-no-wake due to all the rain, even before most boats are in the water!

Did you experience any craziness during the storms? Let me know.

My brother is actually a storm chaser in the Wisconsin / Midwest area (check out his YouTube where he livestreams here!), so thankfully, he’s always keeping me in the loop on what the forecast has in store. So far, it seems the “April showers brings May flowers” phrase might be true. 

In other news, today, we’ve got another edition of Locals Love where we’re taking a look at our reader’s favorite book stores from around our state, and wow, it seems y’all really like to read!

Next week, I want to hear about your favorite candy stores from your communities. Send in your picks, and tell me why we should feature them.

“Blessed by a beautiful sunset after several days of heavy rain!” (Courtesy of Jayne B.)

Our reader Jayne B. sent in this beautiful photo of a sunset after the crazy storms much of Wisconsin saw this week. What a great scene, thanks for sharing!

Send in your Wisconsin view to have it featured.

With the storms (hopefully) subsiding and warm weather on the horizon, check out some of the best fly fishing spots in Wisconsin. 

Click the image to see the map!

This week, I asked for your favorite book stores around your community. Here’s what you had to say:

📍Pages and Pours, De Pere

“Serves beverages, small plate items and a place to just sit and read! Near St. Norbert College! Just warm and inviting!” — Margaret B.

📍Renaissance Book Shop, Milwaukee

“You can find the most amazing and obscure books! It’s a great place to spend time without the hustle and bustle of airport chaos.” — Megan H.

📍The Nerdy Word, Union Grove

“This new Indy bookstore has what you need when it comes to just what you are looking for! Great owner and staff work diligently to make sure you leave happy and with the intent to return. Also, check out reading groups and other activities they host for the love of books. You will be very happy you stopped by!” — Diane P.

📍The Book Deal, Madison

“It started out primarily for college students, by college students, but has grown into a fantastic community resource. Their goal is ‘to foster literacy in our community, through affordable and free access to books.’ Kids get free books, Little Libraries can restock with free books, and Teachers get good discounts.” — Kathleen M.

📍Dotters Books, Eau Claire

“A staple on Barstow Street in Downtown Eau Claire! Independently and woman-owned, Dotters has a variety of books across the gamete of genres. Community driven, Dotters has recently brought back story time and is a resource for the vast community of Eau Claire in their offerings.” — Kristin D.

📍Janke Book Store, Wausau

“It is the oldest bookstore in Wisconsin!” — Lee S.

📍Lion’s Mouth Bookstore and Coffee, Green Bay

“The owner Amy is so welcoming and has all the books that one could want to read. Amy hosts many fun and interesting events. From Silent Book Club, ( my favorite), to Author readings, to celebrations. Amy even has a small food and personal item free pantry shelf. Come visit with employee Jordan, and Noah and find your next great read or event/book club.” — Beth H.

📍Lunar & Lake Book Market, Fond du Lac

“They’ve been in business since 2020 and are still going strong. They have a wonderful selection of books and sponsor events here in Fondy. I’m so happy I can shop LOCALLY for my books now!” — Mel K.

📍Knuth Book Cellar, Ripon

“A welcome addition to Ripon’s downtown. You can browse books, relax in the seating area and grab a coffee or treat from the Ripon Dough Company through the connecting door.” — Karen S.

I want to hear about your favorite candy stores. Hit reply to have your pick featured.

Where to take action this week in Wisconsin.

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Ellie Bourdo with stories from Abigail Deatrick and UpNorthNews Staff. It was edited by Brook Bolen.

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