Hi friends,
As Wisconsin gears up for the holidays, this week brought major announcements, inspiring local leadership stories, business updates, and exciting sports milestones. Below is your roundup of the week’s most important stories from across our community. And as we look toward 2026, your support ensures that Madison365 can continue delivering reporting that reflects and serves our diverse Wisconsin communities. Thanks to NewsMatch, every dollar you donate before December 31 will be matched — doubling your impact.
365 Amplified: Bazaar & Gala Season
In this week’s episode of 365 Amplified, the team dives into a busy stretch of community events, local politics, sports news, and a thoughtful conversation with the leaders of the Urban League of Greater Madison Young Professionals.
Highlights
Holiday Black Bazaar returns bigger than ever, featuring 50+ Black-owned vendors, performances, and community gathering space at the Hub.
Profile: Percy Brown — Omar talks about the new Carey Middle School principal and his winding journey through education and DEI work.
Governor’s race update — Mandela Barnes enters; the crew discusses timing, name recognition, new potential candidates, and what redistricting could mean for 2026.
Judo phenom — Seventh-grader Ilion Hoskins heads to Peru to represent Team USA at the Pan American Championships.
Sports roundup — Badger volleyball advances in NCAA play; Forward Madison re-signs Derek Gebhard and adds veteran defender Mark Segbers; the new Madison women’s team unveils its branding December 12.
Milwaukee soccer stadium — Still in the works, but no ground broken yet.
Feature Interview
Current and incoming YP presidents Kayla Conklin and Déja Mason join the show to discuss:
YP’s growth and Central Region Chapter of Excellence recognition
Why affinity spaces matter for young Black professionals
Goals for 2026, including community service, advocacy, leadership development, and food security work
Percy Brown, Jr.
Percy Brown Jr. returns to his South Madison roots as principal of Lorey-Mann Carey Elementary
Percy Brown Jr. steps into a new leadership role at a new MMSD school while returning to the neighborhood that shaped him.
"You Control You" podcast aims to give you the tools and resources to take control of your life
A new Madison-based podcast focuses on self-leadership, mental health, and practical strategies for personal growth.
Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes announces run for Wisconsin governor
Mandela Barnes officially enters the 2026 governor’s race, positioning his campaign around opportunity, equity, and statewide unity.
The 2024 Holiday Black Bazaar
Urban League Young Professionals looks to keep momentum rolling with annual gala Dec. 13
ULGM Young Professionals prepare for their biggest annual celebration, highlighting volunteer impact and community leadership.
What I’d tell my younger self about leadership
A reflective column shares hard-earned lessons about leading with humility, balance, and intentionality.
Modelo and Corona are unexpected casualties of Trump’s immigration crackdown
Changes in immigration enforcement are disrupting supply chains, leaving major beer brands facing shortages nationwide.
Madison Black Chamber of Commerce’s Holiday Black Bazaar expands to two days
A popular holiday marketplace for Black-owned businesses grows to a two-day event to meet community demand
Madison seventh-grader Iliyan Hoskins to represent Team USA at the Pan American Judo Championship
Middle school athlete Iliyan Hoskins represents Team USA at the Pan American Judo Championships, marking a major moment for the young Madison judoka.
Forward Madison adds veteran midfielder Mark Segbers
Former University of Wisconsin standout Mark Segbers returns to Madison, bringing experience and versatility to the 2026 roster.
“Mr. Mingo” Derek Gebhard will return to Forward Madison for 2026 season
Forward Madison’s all-time leading scorer signs on for his sixth season with the club.
And in other news …
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