Please Support the Women In Focus 2025 “I Have a Dream” Ball

by Moore Vang, age 16

Madison’s 39th annual “I Have a Dream” Ball is scheduled for Monona Terrace on Saturday, January 18, 2025. This year’s theme is “Creating Hope for the Future Through Education,” which is exactly what Women In Focus, Inc. has done since its inception in 1983.

Their primary goal with this annual event is to grant scholarships to local students applying to college, trade school programs, or other post-secondary education programs. These scholarships are awarded to students of color and are funded by donations by ball attendees, along with money raised from a virtual silent auction.

As a junior at Memorial High School, attending the ball for the first time is very exciting to say the least. It is inspiring to know that the devoted volunteers of Women In Focus, Inc. use their platform to send a message to the community promoting educational excellence. Every year this local volunteer group reaffirms its commitment to helping younger generations of students attain higher education. [Read More]

Forest Hill Cemetery Is a Place of Rich History and Remembrance

by Ian Kosharek, age 12

Forest Hill Cemetery is astonishing with its decades of history. It is located in Madison, Wisconsin's west side on Speedway Road, near West High School. This cemetery was founded in January 1857 when the city of Madison purchased the land from John and Maia Wright for $10,000 in bonds.

Many esteemed people are buried at Forest Hill Cemetery. There are several notable scientists, including Harry Steenbock, who discovered Vitamin D, John Bardeen, who won Nobel Prizes for discovering superconductivity and inventing the transistor, and Edward Birge who invented the study of limnology, which UW-Madison is known for. There are also many politicians laid to rest here, including former U.S. Senator Bob LaFollette and his family, William Freeman Vilas who was Secretary of the Interior, and Levi Baker Vilas, the fourth mayor of Madison. There are also many soldiers from both sides of the Civil War buried at Forest Hill Cemetery.

Before it was a public cemetery, Native Americans used the land as high burial grounds. They also built mounds on this land in the late woodland period [650 to 1200 A.D] one being in the shape of a goose located in section 15 on the southeast side of the cemetery. The head of this mound was destroyed when the Illinois Central Railroad was built in the 1880s. Surprisingly, the rest of this mound still stands! [Read More]

Wisconsin Para Dancers Make History at World Competition

By Camila Cruz, age 17

Four talented dancers from Wisconsin made history in early 2024 by competing at the World Para Dance Sport competition in Detroit, marking the first time the event has been held in the United States.

Para dancing, also referred to as wheelchair dancing, allows athletes with disabilities in their lower limbs to participate in competitive dance. The sport started in Sweden in the 1960s and has since grown into an international sport with competitions normally held in Europe. The 2024 World Para Dance Sport championship was a significant milestone for the sport in North America.

One notable Wisconsin representative was Martha Siravo, the founder of Madison-based Wheels & Heels, Inc. This organization is dedicated to supporting para dancers in the Badger state. Siravo was introduced to para dancing after being crowned Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin in 2020. She founded Wheels & Heels, Inc. in 2022 to provide resources and training for para dancers of all ages and abilities. [Read More]

More than a Name: The Legacy of Dr. Virginia Henderson

by Cristian Cruz

Virginia Henderson was a founding member of Women in Focus. The Madison School Board voted unanimously in 2020 to rename Glendale Elementary School in honor of her. Glendale Free Press, a Simpson Street Free Press publication, was also renamed, becoming Virginia Henderson Free Press.

This recognition represented the community's love and appreciation for everything Dr. Virginia Henderson accomplished.

I was 10-years old when I first met Virginia Henderson. I was a middle school staff writer at Simpson Street Free Press and Virginia was a member of our board of directors. She always took the time to talk with us and encourage us. And she always supported our work. I still remember how she would ask us, the students, about our articles and what we were working on. Dr. Henderson talked to us about the importance of writing and academic achievement; always with a warm and caring tone. Each year, at the Women In Focus – “I Have a Dream Ball,” Virginia would welcome us and make us feel special. For us, getting to see Dr. Henderson was always one of the highlights of the event. [Read More]

Construction Begins on New Bridge Across the Wisconsin River

by Will DeFour, age 15

After two decades of planning, construction on a $12 million pedestrian bridge begins this winter. When finished in mid-2026, it will allow thousands of hikers, cyclists, and snowshoers to cross the Wisconsin River to Sauk County and the Devil’s Lake area.

The Wisconsin River has crossings for cars, but few are safe for pedestrians. As one snowmobiler put it, “You go as far south as Spring Green and as far north as Wisconsin Dells to cross the river.”

The proposed bridge would connect Dane County to existing paths and trails in Sauk County, and eventually lead to Devil’s Lake. [Read More]

Dane County Has New Tool for Planting and Protecting Trees

by Aubrey Bevenue, age 13

A new online tool by the name of Growing Shade has been launched with hopes of having more trees planted in the Dane County area.

The Capital Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) and the Dane County Tree Canopy Collaborative recently made an interactive website called Growing Shade, which was designed to preserve and widen the Madison area tree canopy. The advanced website helps people learn about planting trees and illustrates the different tree canopies of Dane County and how they have changed over time. Community members can find data about any village, city, town, or neighborhood in Dane County including Madison.

“Growing shade makes it easier for local staff members, residents, and neighborhood groups and residents to figure out what planting new trees will have the most impact,” said Meline Askay, a climate specialist at the Dane County Office of Energy and Climate Change. The website combines environmental, public health, demographic, and socioeconomic data to express how tree canopy can differ, and change over time in Dane County. [Read More]

What Should You Do if You See a Coyote in Dane County?

by Max Moreno, age 12

Coyotes live all over Wisconsin, but these dog-like animals are potentially dangerous. Knowing how to handle an encounter with a coyote can help you be safer outdoors.

Coyotes can grow up to 52 inches long and can weigh up to 42 pounds. Coyotes range in color from a dark gray to a dull yellow. They are usually mistaken for a medium-sized dog with a long drooped nose and a bushy tail. Coyotes can give birth to up to seven pups at a time and live in a hole three to four feet underground. Coyotes usually go hunting in March and May because this is when their pups are born. They usually hunt small rodents, rabbits, birds, insects, and other animals. [Read More]

Who Built the Effigy Mounds in Dane County?

by Ayelen Flores, age 14

Humans have inhabited the Madison area for approximately 12,000 years, with Native American tribes once calling the region home. The Native Americans left behind traces of daily activities in the form of earthen mounds, as well as artifacts from campsites, villages, and cemeteries.

In particular, Woodland groups lived in small villages, where their homes were oval-shaped and partially underground. The size of the house did not matter since most of the tribe's activities were held outdoors.

Earthen mounds, which were popular during that time, were created in a two-thousand-year period. The purpose of these mounds was for the burial of the dead and other ceremonies. Between 650 A.D. and 1200 A.D., also known as the Late Woodland stage, mound building reached Wisconsin. The best-known prehistoric mounds in the country are the effigy mounds, which are located all over Wisconsin. The mounds were built during late prehistoric times. [Read More]

The 72 Counties that Make Up Wisconsin

by Estefania Garcia-Fox, age 13

Many Wisconsin counties were named after historical figures, such as John Quincy Adams, the sixth president of the United States.

Wisconsin used to be British land; however, it was transferred to American control in 1783, and in 1848 became a part of the United States.

States are divided into counties. Each county has a county seat where the county government offices are located. There are 72 counties in Wisconsin. In this state, there are county officials that are elected by voters for a four-year term. County officials work to ensure that counties continue to prosper and remain safe for their communities. County officials include the sheriff, county executive, district attorney, register of deeds, and treasurer. [Read More]

Wisconsin's Beloved Fast Food Franchise Celebrates 40 Years

by Allison Torres, age 16

Culver’s, the Wisconsin fast food staple, is celebrating its 40th birthday in 2024. Over these past four decades, the restaurant has grown while staying true to its roots.

Craig Culver, who created Culver's, wanted to be independent from his dad, who worked in the farming industry. In 1961, he and his wife decided to buy the Sauk City A&W restaurant. Craig wanted to start a business but had no clue how. He then began to work at a fast food restaurant and soon after began brainstorming the business approach for the A&W building they had purchased. He and his wife painted the building blue and white and fixed the outside. They opened for business on July 18, 1984.

The first few years were difficult because they didn’t know how to run a business. Their first menu consisted of Craig’s fresh frozen custard, butter burgers, cheese curds, tender roast beef, and of course their famous fish fry on Fridays. [Read More]

Goodman Community Center Launches Literacy Initiative Backed by Science of Reading Principles

by Owen Ayite-Atayi and Camila Cruz

Goodman Community Center’s *START Literacy Initiative was launched by literacy specialist Iris Patterson this past spring. The program teaches volunteers the necessary skills to teach kids how to read. Volunteers then put their skills into practice by tutoring children.

The initiative is aimed at Wisconsin’s literacy crisis. In our state, 47% of students in grades 3-5 score proficient in reading. Only 24% of Hispanic and 14% of Black students scored proficient, according to 2023-24 Forward Exam data. Wisconsin’s wide achievement gap, though worsened by the pandemic, has been around for decades.

Iris Patterson is a former 4th and 5th grade teacher. She is working to raise awareness about the science of reading in Madison. [Read More]

Omega School and Literacy Network to Merge in 2025

By Camila Cruz, age 17

Two long-standing education organizations in Madison recently announced a merger, with hopes of expanding their education reach across the community.

Literacy Network and Omega School will officially merge in 2025. The goal of the collaboration is for students to have more access to a variety of education programs. Omega School works with youth and young adults to help them earn a high school diploma. Literacy Network offers tutoring opportunities for adults.

In January of 2025, Omega School will change its name to Omega School of Literacy Network. The merger will help deliver opportunities for students who struggle in traditional classrooms. Future students will be able to build essential skills like literacy and have the choice of earning their high school diploma in either English or Spanish. Students will also be able to transition from foundational programs offered by Literacy Network to more advanced courses at Omega School. [Read More]

A Look at Devil’s Lake State Park’s Rich History and Trails

by Arsema Biruk, age 8

The largest state park in Sauk County, Wisconsin, spans 9,217 acres of rocky cliffs, water, and forests and is known as Devil’s Lake. The park is home to a beautiful 360-acre lake surrounded by dramatic bluffs, wooded trails, and scenic vistas.

Devil’s Lake State Park offers a variety of hiking trails totaling about 29 miles. Trails range from paved, handicapped-accessible paths to challenging routes for experienced hikers, as well as pet-friendly trails. There are three campgrounds in the park, with around 407 campsites available for overnight visitors.

Rock climbing is another popular activity at Devil’s Lake. The Stettner brothers, known as pioneers of climbing in the mid-20th century, helped establish challenging routes on the park’s famous cliffs. The local climbing scene has been influenced by groups of climbers who frequented the area in the 1970s and 1980s. With its smooth rock faces and towering boulders, Devil’s Lake remains a favorite destination for climbers, though it can be hazardous for the unprepared. [Read More]

International Wood Sculpture Festival Honors the Legacy of Harry Whitehorse

By Elim Eyobed, age 13

A festival in honor of Harry Whitehorse, a late Ho-Chunk sculptor from Wisconsin, brought people from all over the world to our backyard. A group of Simpson Street Free Press reporters attended the event and watched some of the world's best woodcarvers create their masterpieces in real time.

A semicircle of tents greeted guests arriving at the festival. The tents, which were designed based on traditional Ho-Chunk homes that used to be on the property, housed the artists in residence. In front of their respective work stations stood each artist’s national flag. [Read More]

Mallard Ducks: Beloved Residents of Wisconsin’s Waterways

by Joseph Zheng, age 10

In Wisconsin, mallard ducks are very common, especially near water. They are so common that the “Madison Mallards” is the name of a Wisconsin baseball team.

Mallards might plant nests in your roof, flowerpot, or chimney. Be cautious and prepared whenever they come and make a home out of your belongings.

Mallard ducks have big, round heads and flat, wide bills. This duck has a wingspan of about 32 to 37 inches and weighs about one to four pounds. Mallards support their diet with dragonflies, larvae, and gastropods, but the most common food source that mallard ducks eat all year long is grain from crops. Occasionally, they might eat small fish, but their diet mainly comprises plants and small invertebrates. Mallard ducks are nicknamed “Dabbling Ducks” because they tip forward in the water to reach aquatic plants and insects, rather than diving deeply. [Read More]

Progress and Challenges for the Lower Yahara River Trail Extension

by Moore Vang, age 15

Dane County park officials have been working on a boardwalk that includes North America’s longest inland pedestrian boardwalk bridge for non-motorized transportation for more than 25 years. Some progress has been made, but the project still battles challenges.

The trail between Madison and Stoughton has been on pause since the summer of 2017, when the first section of construction, from Madison to McFarland was finished. There is a major issue with connecting the two existing sections of the path. The consequence of this is that bikers now have to go along the busy Highway AB for nearly two miles until they can get back on route.

The second section of the Lower Yahara River Trail began construction in 2022 and finished in early July 2024 and goes between Fish Camp County Park and Lake Kegonsa State Park. The trail is 1.6 miles long and is a blend of a boardwalk and paved trail, which crosses over Door Creek. It is connected to the Village of McFarland, which includes the two-mile on-road route. [Read More]

Forward Theater Review: “King James” Is a Play About Basketball and Friendship

by Jacob Dunn and Jules Da Costa

We recently attended Forward Theater’s “King James” written by Rajiv Joseph and directed by Michael Burke. While the run has ended, the Wisconsin premier of this two-man show captured audience attention with its exploration of friendship, conflict, maturation, and fandom.

“King James” gets its title from basketball legend LeBron James, whose career is the foundation of the story. Set in four quarters, like a basketball game, the comedy follows the relationship of two young men from Cleveland. Both love basketball and LeBron James.

Shawn, played by Marques Causey, is a thoughtful and reserved young Black man with ambitions of being a writer. Matt, played by Greg Pragel, is a young white man who wants independence and success but finds himself indebted to his parents. [Read More]

How Monona’s Historic Lakefront Became San Damiano Park

By Sedona Afeworki, age 15

San Damiano is a lakefront park and historical site in Monona. A non-profit called The Friends of San Damiano, created in July of 2020, is working with the City of Monona to make the property a “one-of-a-kind Lake Monona destination.”

The San Damiano property has been passed down and exchanged several times since it was originally inhabited by indigenous communities. The Ho-Chunk Nation had been on the property since the ice ages, and in 1850, a Native American burial mound site was discovered near the San Damiano property.

Its next known occupant was Frank Allis, heir to the Allis-Chalmers farm machinery company. In 1893, Allis built a Dutch Colonial Revival house on the estate, which was 600 acres of farmland along Lake Monona. The still-standing 130-year-old house, which included a ballroom and seven fireplaces, was one of the first permanent residences along the lake outside of Madison. [Read More]

How Protests Led to the Bombing of UW's Sterling Hall

by Siheon Park, age 11

During the 1960s, many University of Wisconsin-Madison students were protesting the Vietnam War. Police broke up a student protest by using mace and clubs. The protest was about the Dow Chemical Company that produced a deadly chemical called Napalm for the U.S. military, but later on, it would lead to one of the most mysterious cases of domestic terrorism in Wisconsin history.

On Aug, 24, 1970, a group of men bombed Sterling Hall of UW-Madison, which was home to the Army Math Research Center, killing physicist Robert Fassnacht, and injuring four other researchers. The bombers were Karl and Dwight Armstrong, Leo Burt, and David Fine. The called themselves “The New Years Gang”.

The bombing of Sterling Hall wasn’t their only attack. Earlier in the year on January 1st, 1970, Karl and Dwight Armstrong attempted to bomb the Badger Army Ammunition Plant in Baraboo, but the bomb failed to go off. Later on, they were involved in bombing the ROTC offices and US draft board in the spring. [Read More]

The Driftless Historium: A Journey Through Time in Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin

by Dayanara Flores Gonzalez, age 16

There is a museum in Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin that’s well worth a visit. The Driftless Historium and Mt. Horeb Historical Society are only a short drive from Madison, but inside the facility are objects and exhibits that teach history and spark the imagination.

It’s been a while since student reporters from Simpson Street have been to this fantastic museum. But we’ve seen the photos of prior visits and read the reviews from former students. So, we were excited to hit the road and visit Mt. Horeb and the Driftless Historium. Of course, we also wanted more photos of trolls. But that’s a different part of the story. [Read More]

Madison Night Mares Softball Team Enjoys Successful First Season

by Aria McClinton, age 13

Madison’s new collegiate women’s softball team, the Madison Night Mares, completed their first season this summer. The team is part of the Northwoods League Softball Summer Collegiate League, which also includes teams from La Crosse, Wisconsin, Minot, North Dakota, and Mankato, Minnesota.

The Madison Mallards announced the formation of the Night Mares in a statement earlier this year. At that time, the team was referred to as “Madison Softball.” The team’s general manager, Samantha Rubin, is also the first female general manager of the Madison Mallards Baseball Club.

Through a “Name Your Team” contest, softball enthusiasts around Madison were able to pick the name of the team. The new name was shared with the public during a April event at the Orpheum Theater in Madison. [Read More]

Archeologists Make Historic Discoveries in Lake Mendota

by Dani Garduño, age 13

Lake Mendota is known for mysterious secrets and historic discoveries, and archaeologists now say that one of its oldest secrets may have just been revealed. Recently, researchers have identified nine more dugout canoes on the lake's bottom, including one estimated to be around 4,500 years old, making it the oldest known dugout canoe found in the Great Lakes region.

Archaeologists from the Wisconsin Historical Society discovered these nine additional canoes near Shorewood Hills with the help of radiocarbon dating and wood analysis. One canoe fragment, estimated to be 4,500 years old, dates back to around 2500 B.C., a time when hunters and gatherers lived in seasonal communities. This makes it the oldest dugout canoe found in the Great Lakes region.

While this ancient canoe is an important discovery, it is only one of many canoes that have been found in Lake Mendota. The canoes were categorized by archaeologists based on the types of wood used to construct them. The materials included elm, ash, cottonwood, white oak, and red oak—woods commonly used by the ancestors of the Ho-Chunk Nation and other Native peoples. The Wisconsin Historical Society continues to collaborate with the Ho-Chunk Nation to learn more about these historic watercraft and the people who built them. [Read More]

New Street Drugs Make Opioid Crisis Worse

by Moore Vang, age 15

Dane County and Milwaukee County health officials are concerned about a synthetic drug that can worsen the opioid crisis. This drug is known as medetomidine, an animal tranquilizer that is being mixed with fentanyl along with other street drugs. Although medetomidine has not been linked with overdose deaths in Wisconsin, it has been in other places nearby such as Chicago and is an example of the dangers of these new incoming drugs.

Medetomidine has multiple health side effects including sedation, decreased heart rate, and difficulty breathing which can worsen with opioid and non-opioid sedatives. These effects are similar to another animal tranquilizer that has entered Wisconsin: xylazine, also known as Tranq. Effects of these drugs can not be treated by opioid-reversing drugs such as Narcan, thus overdose is a serious risk when these drugs are present and abused.

Dr. Ben Weston, the director of medical services for the Milwaukee County Office of Emergency Management, said, “It makes opioids even more dangerous and harder to reverse.” Within two years, xylazine went from not being a concern to being the cause of 5% of all overdose deaths in Wisconsin. “The trends that we are seeing nationally probably mean that it’s only a matter of time until we see medetomidine here in Milwaukee County and in Wisconsin,” Weston said. A Milwaukee County medical examiner is continuing to look for the presence of the drug in overdose deaths. [Read More]

Chris McIntosh to Lead UW Athletics Through 2029

by Owen Ayite-Atayi, 16

The University of Wisconsin Madison is announcing that Chris McIntosh, UW’s athletic director, is agreeing to stay with the UW Athletics program for a few more years.

McIntosh is from Pewaukee, Wisconsin, and was a former Badgers offensive lineman. He played just two seasons in the National Football League (NFL) and wanted to be an athletic director. He joined the department in 2014 as the director of development and later was promoted to the athletic director.

McIntosh’s contract increases his base salary to $1.45 million yearly with a $50,000 increase each year. With this new contract extension, he will continue to work for UW Athletics until 2029, where his contract expires. Jennifer L. Mnookin, the chancellor of UW, said in a press release, “Chris is an extremely effective leader at a time of unprecedented change across the collegiate athletics landscape. He continues to position the Badgers for long-term success in the top tier of college sports.” [Read More]

Stewart Lake County Park is a Hidden Gem in Dane County's Driftless Area

by Samuel Garduño Martínez, age 17

Just west of Madison near the village of Mt. Horeb lies one of Dane County’s hidden gems—its first official park. Nestled in the Driftless Area, Stewart Lake County Park’s bluffs and valleys are a unique piece of Wisconsin. First and foremost, the topography is breathtakingly special. Unlike other regions in the Midwest, the Driftless Area escaped the flattening effects of thousand-year-old-glaciers.

This summer, students from Simpson Street Free Press embarked on several field trips to the Driftless Area. Our plans are to visit this still-preserved treasure and study its characteristics. On one recent trip, we learned that despite going through much change, Stewart Lake County Park is beloved by the people who use it and know it.

Stewart Lake County Park, formerly known as Lake Park, has been around since the early 20th century, but the site has beautifully carved over thousands of years. The park itself has undergone several drastic transformations since it was designated a park in 1912. [Read More]

What Is an Alder?

by Daniel Li, age 16

The role of an alderman varies significantly depending on the governmental context. Historically, in Anglo-Saxon England, aldermen were high-ranking officials who often presided over shires. The term "alderman" originates from the Old English "ealdorman," meaning "elder man" or "older man."

In the United States, the term "alderman" is less common compared to titles like "councilman" or "council member," but at their core, they are equivalent. However, some municipalities still use the term. Chicago’s City Council, for instance, comprises 50 elected aldermen, each representing a district or ward. These aldermen serve under the city's mayor and are responsible for representing their constituents' interests at the city or county level. Similar to congressmen, aldermen are elected by district residents and strive to advocate for their community's needs. In some instances, a district may have multiple aldermen.

In Madison, the city is divided into 20 districts, each represented by one alderman. These districts are carefully drawn to ensure balanced representation across the city, considering population and community interests. Madison's alders serve on the Common Council, working alongside the mayor to address citywide issues and local concerns within their districts. [Read More]

New Golf Complex Proposed in Monona

By Ayelen Flores Ruiz, age 14

Topgolf, a sports entertainment company, has revealed plans to build a driving range and golf center in Monona. It will be located just off the Beltline on West Broadway. The site is between WPS Health Solutions and South Towne Mall.

Topgolf is a Dallas-based company which has over 90 golf complexes across the U.S. and locations in 10 other countries. There are two located in the suburbs of Chicago and another near Minneapolis. There is also a planned golf complex in West Des Moines, Iowa. That facility will open this fall.

Finding a location was not easy. The company has been looking in the Madison market for five years. In Monona, the company plans a project worth $30 million that would replace five current buildings. The location was discussed with the city plan commission in June. The company's real estate development director Todd Waldo said, “We feel that we have found the right spot.” [Read More]

Dane County Set to Approve New Wildlife Conservation Area

by Siwoo Park, age 12

Dane County recently awarded $900,000 to the Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance. The SWBA will proceed with a conservation project to preserve native wildlife species in a sanctuary near CamRock County Park in eastern Dane County. The 2,600 acres of conservation land will include public access, educational opportunities, and captivating scenery. One goal is to emphasize the importance of native species.

In addition to Dane County’s funding, SWBA was also awarded $1.4 million from the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship.

The 2,600 acres that SWBA bought from David Gunnulson will be used to create and preserve habitats that are new and old. The SWBA will protect native butterflies, birds, and plants within a crucial habitat area. The location is about two miles south of CamRock County Park in the town of Christiana. [Read More]

The Greek Demigod who Became the God of Medicine

by John Agbo, age 13

In Greek mythology, the most powerful gods, known as the 12 Olympians, could not bring back the dead. Only Asclepius, the god of medicine, could. However, Asclepius wasn't always a god; he was born a demigod.

Asclepius was the son of Apollo and Koronis, the god of the sun and a mortal, respectively. In some myths, his mother abandoned him as a child and left him to be raised by a dog and a goat. His father, Apollo, raised him and taught the young demigod the secrets of medicine. Asclepius was tutored by Cheiron, a wise centaur and the teacher of many legendary heroes who lived on Mt. Pelion.

In some myths, Asclepius married Hygeia, another god of health, but in others, she was his daughter, and he married Epione instead. Asclepius had two sons and four daughters. His descendants, known as the Asclepiads, also carried on his legacy of medicine. [Read More]

How Dane County Young People Can Protect Pollinator Species

by Camila Cruz, age 16

Spring and early summer is a good time to think about helping pollinator species. And you can do this right in your own backyard.

The Dane County Land and Water Resources Department is encouraging people to act to support our local pollinators. There are several steps you can take that can help. These steps include planting native plants and providing the types of habitats that pollinators need to survive and thrive.

Student reporters from Simpson Street Free Press have been studying and writing about pollinators for several years. These species are essential to our environment because about 87% of flowering plants on Planet Earth depend on pollinators. [Read More]

Learn the History of Wisconsin's State Capitol Buildings

by Atisse Robbins, age 13

Did you know Wisconsin's first capitol was not built in Madison? The first capitol building, called the territorial capitol, was built by James Atchison in the town of Old Belmont. The capitol was built around 1836, using wooden pieces made in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Today, the territorial capitol remains in Lafayette County as one of Wisconsin's historical sites.

The first state capitol was built under the supervision of James D. Doty and John O'Neill. Construction started in 1837, but it was not finished until 1848. It was expected to cost $40,000, but after it was completed, the expenses were $60,000.

Due to the growing state, the legislature of 1857 planed for the expansion of the capitol. Soon, the construction of a second state capitol began. The legislature established the second state capitol as they believed that the first state capitol was no longer adequate for the growing state. [Read More]

Event Highlights the Dangers of Vaping

by Elim Eyobed, age 13 and Ayelen Flores, age 13

Public Health Madison Dane County recently hosted an open-house event at Warner Park Community Recreation Center. The goal of the event was to raise awareness about vaping and its risks for young people. The event focused on the medical research and useful facts about vaping.

The creativity of local high schoolers was featured, in the form of three vaping awareness posters. The posters are a product of a two-year project that was a joint effort between Public Health Madison Dane County (PHMDC), UW-Madison Extension, and Madison teens.

At the event, the posters took center-stage, but were accompanied by various educational “stations” that highlighted what the students learned during the project. The first stop was a timeline of tobacco use, advertising, and legislation, dating back to 6000 B.C. and its use in ancient Native American communities for healing and tradition. The timeline included the creation of the first widely recognized vape, the Juul, and the recent spike in vape and e-cigarette use among youth. [Read More]

City of Madison Hires Local Journalist for Newly-Created Communications Manager Position

by Jules Da Costa, age 16

Local journalist Dylan Brogan was recently named the City of Madison’s new communications manager, a newly created position.

The new position was approved by the Madison Common Council in the 2024 budget. City officials say they created the job to support and better facilitate outreach to the public. They also hope to keep residents better informed about local government.

Brogan will oversee planning, organizing, and coordinating communications and will focus on reaching underrepresented residents, according to a statement from the mayor’s office. [Read More]

Theater Review: “What the Constitution Means to Me”

By Camila Cruz, age 16

Forward Theater’s production of “What the Constitution Means to Me,” directed by Jen Uphoff Gray, captures audiences with its unique approach to considering the United States Constitution.

Leading actress Colleen Madden of American Players Theater portrays playwright and protagonist Heidi Schreck in this autobiographical play. Madden opens the play by introducing herself as Heidi Schreck and explaining her connection to the Constitution. As a high schooler, Schreck competed in constitutional speech and debate contests, for which she earned college scholarships. At age 15, Schreck loved the Constitution and its study, and she felt deeply inspired by this “living document.”

The first part of the play revolves around 50-year-old Schreck “recreating” one of her high school competitions. She acts like her polite and invigorated 15-year-old self. But she also pauses her reenactment to comment on how her understanding of amendments and clauses has deepened through time and experience. [Read More]

Wisconsin Students Could Return to School in August Under New DPI Proposal

by Jules Da Costa, age 15

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction is proposing a policy shift that would allow schools to start before the traditional September 1st date. Current state regulations prevent public schools from starting classes before September 1st. The suggested rule change would modify existing legislation, enacted in 2002.

In recent years, more school districts have sought to start the academic year earlier. In 2023-24, over 100 districts asked to start the school year early. Just two years earlier, only 18 districts submitted such waiver requests.

Some exemptions already exist. School districts can start school early for things like construction projects, unexpected school closures, or transportation issues. The new exemptions proposed by DPI seek to help schools trying to improve attendance and student achievement. Schools offering special support in math and reading might also qualify for an exemption. DPI would also expand the exemption to districts looking to address mental health issues. [Read More]

When United Way’s Annual Campaign Succeeds, the Entire Community Benefits

By Desteny Alvarez and Josepha Da Costa

Earlier this year, student reporters from Simpson Street Free Press had a chance to interview several longtime change-makers and volunteers. Our interviews were part of United Way’s centennial celebration. Let’s just say we learned a lot about our community and about United Way.

The first thing we learned was that “The Power of Many, Working for All” is much more than just a slogan. Here in Dane County, our local United Way puts those words into action. For example, did you know that every dollar donated to United Way returns more than six times that amount in total community impact? That statistic alone demonstrates efficiency and solid results. And it’s worth a deeper look. [Read More]

Wisconsin Passes $125 Million Bill to Address PFAS Contamination

by Valeria Moreno Lopez, age 17

Dangerous artificial chemicals like PFAS have polluted Wisconsin’s waters and towns for decades. The Wisconsin State Assembly recently passed a $125 million bill to control and test for PFAS contamination in groundwater across the state, yet it could also exempt polluters from liability.

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals in many industry and consumer items, including cookware and water-resistant products. These chemicals are difficult to remove from nature and do not fully decompose. They seep into groundwater and lakes, and ingesting them can lead to a weakened immune system, liver disease, and cancer.

The legislation would offer grants to local governments and private landowners, using $125 million from the state’s budget trust fund to remove PFAS in wells and water treatment plants. Under Wisconsin’s “Spills Law,” anyone who causes or owns a dangerous substance released into the environment must clean it up. However, Democrats say the PFAS bill protects polluters because, in some scenarios, taxpayers would have to clean up the mess. Furthermore, a legislative committee must approve the funding for the legislation before it can help Wisconsinites with contamination. [Read More]

Madison Schools and Libraries Host 2nd-annual ‘Batalla de los Libros’ Reading Competition

by Camila Cruz, age 16

Madison students in grades 4-8 recently met for a Spanish-language reading competition. The idea was to test student skills and knowledge in areas like studying, reading comprehension, and teamwork.

This event was the Madison Metropolitan School District’s second annual Batalla de los Libros. Teams of students from various elementary and middle schools in Madison gathered at Central Branch Public Library in downtown Madison. The event was sponsored by MMSD Department of Library Services.

Teams of students from four middle schools and nine elementary schools took part in the event. Parents were invited to attend. [Read More]

The Legacy of Madison's 'I Have a Dream' Scholarship Ball

by Camila Cruz, age 16

Last year was the first time I attended the Martin Luther King “I Have a Dream” Ball. Now, almost one year later, it’s the most important date on my calendar. Here’s why ….

Sponsored by Women In Focus, this annual event is a cherished Madison tradition. I had heard of it but had never been to the event. Talking with friends and siblings who had attended in the past made me excited and curious. I was looking forward to it.

I’m not here to tell you how much fun we had. We had a great time listening to music and guest speakers, talking with friends, and dancing. There was an amazing auction. The event was everything I imagined and more. But that’s not what I’m here to talk about. [Read More]

W. Jerome Frautschi Donates to new Wisconsin History Center

By Valeria Moreno Lopez, age 17

A new Wisconsin Historical Museum will replace the current museum on Capitol Square by 2027.

Philanthropist W. Jerome Frautschi recently established an additional $10 million fund, making his total donation to the project about $25 million.

Jerome Frautschi and his wife, Pleasant Rowland, are based in Madison and have a history of giving back to the city. They have donated millions to countless city projects, including the Madison Youth Arts Center, the UW Hospital, the Overture Center, Boys and Girls of Dane County, and many more. [Read More]

Public Health Officials Issue PFAS Updates for Dane County Fisheries

by Amelia Pearson, age 13

In 2023, there was an updated per-and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) warning enforced by the Dane County Public Health due to concerns about the 2023 fishing season. PFAS are harmful human-made chemicals that are used in a vast variety of products from firefighting foams to something as simple as fast-food wrapping.

One major concern centers around PFAS found in fish. Due to this, the Department of Natural Resource (DNR) and Department of Health Services (DHS) suggest a limit on the number of certain fish people should consume, such as Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, and White Bass, which was recently added to the list. The DNR and DHS recommend only one meal including any of these four types of fish a month.

Due to the outcome of the fish sampling in 2020, the DNR heavily recommended new PFAS-based fish consumption advisories for Yahara Chain waters in Dane and Rock county. There was also a raised level of perfluoro octane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a type of PFAS found in various species of fish collected in lakes Monona, Kegonsa and Waubesa. [Read More]

Monona Mural Is Beloved Local Example of Public Art

by Ayelen Flores Ruiz, age 13

Wisconsin boasts a plethora of stunning and remarkable murals throughout the state, each distinguished by the unique messages they convey. One compelling illustration is the "Water, Land, and Sky" mural located in Monona.

Positioned conveniently on West Broadway, opposite South Towne Mall, this mural is accessible to the public at all times, allowing visitors to capture photographs with it. Crafted in the summer of 2017, it is the result of a collaboration between the city of Monona and Dane Arts Mural Art.

The "Water, Land, and Sky" mural serves as a tribute to the beauty of Monona and its vibrant community. Local artist Rhea Swing breathed life into this masterpiece, with the active involvement of Monona residents, including those from Winnequah Elementary, the Monona Senior Center, and members of the Ho-Chunk Nation. [Read More]

Unlocking Opportunities with a Madison Library Card

by Ayelen Flores Ruiz, age 13

The city of Madison is home to nine public libraries, as well as a mobile library, the Dream Bus. While the Madison Public Library system still lends out books, movies, CDs, and even video games, it has grown to offer a variety of additional opportunities and resources to Madisonians. The key to accessing these opportunities within Madison libraries and the South Central Library System: is a library card.

There are multiple ways to sign up for a library card. For example, sign-up can be done online or at any Madison Public Library location. You will need an ID and proof of your current address. The first card is free and then you can request free replacement cards.

The Madison Public Library website has a list of 30 things a cardholder can do with their card, such as checking out movies, books, computers, DVDs, ebooks, current newspapers, magazines, and many more interesting things. Students and other individuals can reserve a study room to work on homework or school projects. The rooms were made for people to use as a tool to meet with friends or group work members and study. [Read More]

Follow a Simpson Street Road Trip to Wisconsin’s Driftless Area

by Samuel Garduño and Camila Cruz

A large group of student reporters from Simpson Street recently took a summer road trip to Wisconsin’s famous Driftless Area. This is an area of western Wisconsin that was never flattened or even touched by the glaciers. The region is hilly with lots of cold-water streams and beautiful scenery. For us, it was a one-day adventure meant to enhance our understanding of topics we already cover, such as pollinator species and birds of Wisconsin.

We started from our newsroom at South Towne Mall in Madison. In our caravan there were 12 students and four editors.

As we drove west through Mt. Horeb, our eyes were quickly drawn to the many trolls and troll-like sculptures that line the main street of this charming Wisconsin community. Always curious about such things, we decided to stop on the way back to take a closer look at Mt. Horeb and its trolls. [Read More]

Exploring the Artistic Depths of the James Watrous Gallery

by Camila Cruz, age 16, and Ayelen Flores, age 13

At Simpson Street Free Press, we are always on the lookout for art. Recently, student reporters from Simpson Street took a trip to see the James Watrous Gallery at the Overture Center for the Arts. Just like writing, art is a form of discipline and expression. Both of these draw out individual imagination and creativity to convey meanings that reach deeper than the surface.

So, on a bright and sunny summer day, our reporters arrived at the Overture Center at 4:30 p.m. and made our way up to the gallery. The James Watrous Gallery is located on the third floor, where one of the gallery staff greeted us at the entrance and gave us an overview of gallery highlights and ongoing exhibits.

The Watrous Gallery is a program of the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters. The gallery showcases the work of local artists and, more generally, artists from Wisconsin. We had the opportunity to view featured collections by Colin Matthes and Alison Gates, which were on display from April 28 to July 23. [Read More]

Wisconsin Trade Exams Now Available in Spanish, Paving the Way for Inclusivity and Opportunity

by Sandy Flores Ruiz, age 17

Wisconsin Trade Credentialing Examinations are now offered in Spanish, as of July 11, 2023. This will allow native Spanish speakers to take all trade exams in Spanish, which will eliminate a language barrier to obtaining a credential, and help them achieve a higher earning job.

The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services is investing in the expansion of the state’s workforce by creating changes like this, offering people the opportunity to be certified in a trade. The exam will help native Spanish speakers to get one of the state’s 240 professional credentials. Those include plumbing, contracting, electrical work and so much more. Many are excited about this new major advancement as it will allow more Hispanic people to be able to work in different fields.

However, people worry that this new advance will only benefit a few community members because of the following steps after the exam. In the state of Wisconsin, one in five Latinos do not speak English at all or do not speak it well. After entering those higher-level positions, many will struggle to succeed if the only language companies offer is English. Some question whether Wisconsin is creating false hope for people entering a workforce in which their native language is not spoken. [Read More]

Free Native Plants Available for Schools and Community Projects

by Camila Cruz, age 15

Is your school or community organization looking to install or expand a native plant garden? Many people these days look for ways to help the local environment, and planting native plants is a good way to start.

Well, you’re in luck. The Dane County Land & Water Resources Department is offering free native plants. The department is currently accepting applications from schools and community groups in Dane County. For more information about this program or to download the application, visit the Land & Water Resources Department website.

Native plants can help improve water quality and wildlife habitat. Plants that are native to Wisconsin tend to do better in our local growing conditions. Native plants have deep root systems, and this provides many benefits. For example, they reduce stormwater runoff and help protect nearby bodies of water. These plants are also more resistant to drought and disease. [Read More]

New Projects and Dedicated Volunteers Help Expand Dane County’s Newest Park

by Alan Cruz, age 17

On a recent summer evening, Simpson Street Free Press student reporters headed just south of Madison toward Oregon and Anderson Farm County Park. Pollinator gardens and the unveiling of public art attracted our attention to the park because we’ve been writing about those subjects this summer.

Established in 2014, Anderson Farm County Park is the newest park in the Dane County Parks system. At 310 acres, this is also one of our bigger parks. Anderson Farm Park is a mix of woodlands, agricultural fields, and a small prairie that was started in 2016. While the park is still being developed, new projects and new features are shaping up throughout this park.

We got to the park in time to see the unveiling of a new sculpture, which is located near the Union Road picnic area parking lot alongside the bike path. The sculpture honors the legacy of Gary Kalscheur, a long-time youth baseball coach and strong supporter of Anderson Farm County Park during its early days. [Read More]

Dream Ball Raises Scholarship Funds for Local Students

by Cristian Cruz

One of Madison’s signature events will take place on January 13th at The Wisconsin Masonic Center.

The goal is to raise funds for college scholarships, which are awarded each spring.

For students at Simpson Street Free Press, this annual event is a tradition. We attend every year, and we look forward to it. The “I have a Dream” Ball is widely known as a truly fun event. There is good food, lots of interesting people, and a real sense of community and purpose. We think that’s because the people who attend know they are contributing to a great cause. [Read More]

Open Meetings Violation Complaint Filed Against Belleville

by Sydney Steidl, age 16

A concerned citizen has accused the Village of Belleville of illegally meeting behind closed doors to consider and approve the sale of the Village’s former library in violation of the State’s Open Meetings Laws. The complaint, filed with the Dane County District Attorney’s office in early August, contained 10 separate allegations of open meetings violations.

The sale of the 6,300-square-foot building to a developer for $20,000 was approved as a result of closed meetings, despite the building being appraised at $210,000 only a year ago. This substantial difference has led many local residents to wonder what happened during the meetings and question the integrity of the deal.

One citizen, Jeff Larson, said he believes that other potential buyers would have offered more favorable terms for the library, and that this sale was not in the public’s best interest. “If the board believes this is such a great deal for the Village and its residents, why did it work so hard to hide information and prevent the public from sharing any input until after the decision was already made?” Larson said. [Read More]

City of Madison Continues to Make Progress in Composting Programs

by Mariama Bah, age 15

Citywide composting in Madison has had a challenging history, but supporters are still trying to make it a reality.

Compost is a mixture of decomposed organic matter typically used as fertilizer as it is high in nutrients for soil. Organic matter such as fruits and vegetables, grass clippings, and paper can be thrown into a pile and turned into compost. In turn, compost cuts methane emissions from landfills, conserves water, and reduces personal waste.

Madison has tried and failed to implement food composting programs. The city attempted to install curbside pick up services twice, but these programs quickly came to an end as food scraps were contaminated with non-organic materials like children's toys, coat hangers, and towels. [Read More]

Land Purchase in Western Dane County Provides Public Access to Morton Forest

by Hiba Al-Quraishi, age 14

A generous gift from a private landowner made 22 years ago is prompting new conservation action in Dane County.

In 1999, 120 acres of Morton Forest were deeded to Dane County by Steve Morton, a retired chemist, and environmentalist. The land is about 2.5 miles south of the Town of Mazomanie. To create better access to Morton Forest, Dane County now plans to purchase 65 acres of land in the Village of Black Earth.

Similar to Morton Forest, this new piece of land in Black Earth has amazing vistas, as well as small farmlands, a stone quarry, and rock outcroppings. [Read More]

When Exploring Dane County’s Sugar River, Keep and Eye Out for Invasive Species

by Dayanara Flores Gonzalez, age 14

The Sugar River, also known as The Upper Sugar River Watershed, is located in Dane County and flows all the way down to the Rock River.

The Upper Sugar River Watershed Association works to protect the river from invasive species that can harm or push out native species and damage the ecosystem. Many rare and endangered native plants found in the river and its nearby wetlands are threatened. Most wetland animals depend on these native plants for food and shelter.

Some native species can disappear if a watershed loses its healthy wetlands. Recreational uses of wetlands include trapping, fishing, bird watching, and nature study. Healthy wetlands can help with keeping the water clean and safe for wildlife. Healthy wetlands also help control and prevent floods. [Read More]

Martin Luther King, Jr “I Have a Dream”
Event Supports Local Scholarships

by Josepha Da Costa, age 16

The annual “I Have a Dream” Ball is scheduled for January 15, 2022. This year’s event will again take place virtually. As always, the I Have Dream Ball will raise money to fund scholarships for local high school seniors and college students. And, as always, this cherished Madison tradition is organized and sponsored by the dedicated volunteers of Women in Focus.

My name is Josepha Da Costa and I am a junior at La Follette High School. I am also a teen editor at Simpson Street Free Press. I have attended the Women in Focus Ball with my Simpson Street colleagues several times over the years going back to when I was in 6th grade. [Read More]