This week, Madison365 covered the resilience and activism shaping our state — from families bracing for food insecurity to thousands rallying for democracy in Madison. We also spotlighted inspiring local leaders, business innovators, and athletes making national waves. Here’s your week in review.

But first:

We are giving away 25 tickets to the 365 Leadership Summit!

365 Amplified: Pumpkins, politics & a rising Disney star

NEW PODCAST: Rob, Stephanie and Omar talk through the news of the week. Then, rising Disney star and UW freshman Nate Buescher joins to talk about his role on the new show Electric Bloom and answer the ultimate Chicago question: Cubs or Sox?

Families, food pantries brace for FoodShare delay amid government shutdown
With a federal shutdown looming, Wisconsin families and food pantries are preparing for potential delays in FoodShare benefits that could deepen hunger across the state.

“Fascism aims to divide us”: Francesca Hong hits big themes in campaign for governor
State Rep. Francesca Hong’s bid for governor takes on national stakes as she challenges division and fear with a message of solidarity and justice.

Moms Demand Action, Students Demand Action call on elected officials to enact gun control reforms at State Capitol
Gun safety advocates gathered at the Capitol this week urging Wisconsin lawmakers to act on gun reform in the wake of continued violence.

Wingra School looks for community support as it gets ready to host its annual gala fundraiser
The beloved independent school is rallying support for its annual gala, a key event to sustain its student-centered, community-driven mission.

Inaugural Monona Indigenous Roots Dinner will celebrate Ho-Chunk culture
A new dinner series in Monona will honor Ho-Chunk traditions through food, storytelling, and cultural exchange.

“Trump is not the law. The Constitution is the law.” Thousands march in Madison for No Kings Rally
Thousands filled downtown Madison to protest threats to democracy, echoing calls for accountability and constitutional governance.

Beyond the Title: Bryan Capabyab
The Madison entrepreneur shares how creativity, culture, and purpose drive his work in business and community leadership.

Beyond the Title: Dr. Nestor Rodriguez
Dr. Rodriguez reflects on education, mentorship, and the power of representation in leadership.

Beyond the Title: Juan Corpus
Corpus discusses his journey in workforce development and how he helps open doors for others across Wisconsin.

Rising Disney star is a freshman at UW–Madison
Disney actor Nate Buescher is balancing fame and freshman life as he begins his college journey in Madison.

Indian Country award-winning author Shobha Rao to talk about her new book at Wisconsin Book Festival
The acclaimed author will join the Wisconsin Book Festival to discuss her latest novel exploring identity and resilience.

Madison’s new women’s soccer team announces head coach, technical director
The city’s newest soccer club is taking shape, revealing its first two major hires as it prepares to kick off next season.

Feds reveal mafia-linked gambling probe that led to arrests of Hall of Famer Chauncey Billups and NBA star Terry Rozier
Federal investigators unveiled a wide-reaching gambling ring with shocking ties to major NBA figures.

Five Wisconsin-born players to watch in NCAA D1
From Appleton to Milwaukee, these five homegrown talents are making their mark on the national college basketball stage.

UW will stick with Fickell, athletic director says
Despite a rocky start, UW leadership reaffirmed its commitment to head coach Luke Fickell and his long-term vision.

Ten Badgers make Team USA roster for Rivalry Series against Canada
Wisconsin women’s hockey continues its dominance with ten players earning national team honors.

And in other news …

• Farmers turn to flawed visa program in search for legal labor. Now the rules and costs are changing.

• UMOS to be recognized with prestigious Ohtli Award from the government of Mexico on Friday

• The inside story of how Jesse Jackson almost became America’s first Black presidential nominee

• Pardoned Capitol rioter arrested on charge that he threatened to kill Hakeem Jeffries

Keep up with the news by following us on BlueSky , Facebook , Instagram  and Twitter, and watch Madison365.org  for the latest news every day.