Tuesday (oops!) Morning Round Up!

A day late, but the information is still good . . . and I got some extra sleep!

ADDED AND CANCELLED MEETINGS

ADDED

 

 

CANCELLED

DEMOLITION NOTICES

633 W Main

This is a notice that Michael Metzger will be filing a demolition permit application. The application will be submitted around May 20, 2026 or later. The applicant seeks to demolish a Single story office building. The address is 633 W Main St Madison, WI 53703.

The City’s Landmarks Commission provides an advisory review of all demolition applications. The Landmarks Commission will determine if the building has historic value. If it has historic value, then the Plan Commission will review the application. The Plan Commission will hold a public hearing when they review the application. If it has no known historic value, the Director of Building Inspection may approve the application.

For more information about this application, please contact the applicant, Michael Metzger, McGrath Property Group – Nimi Hotels, 730 Williamson St 150 Madison, WI 53703 at michael.metzger@mcgrathpropertygroup.com or (608)515-5046.

Applicant’s Comments:

A demolition permit to raze the single-story office building at 633 W. Main Street will be submitted on or before 5/20/26 for the Landmarks Commission review.

If you have any questions about the City’s application review process, please contact the City of Madison Planning Division at (608) 266-4635.

4635 Odana Rd

This is a notice that Brian Kowalski will be filing a demolition permit application. The application will be submitted around May 20, 2026 or later. The applicant seeks to demolish a Golf Clubhouse. The address is 4635 Odana Rd Madison, WI 53711.

The City’s Landmarks Commission provides an advisory review of all demolition applications. The Landmarks Commission will determine if the building has historic value. If it has historic value, then the Plan Commission will review the application. The Plan Commission will hold a public hearing when they review the application. If it has no known historic value, the Director of Building Inspection may approve the application.

For more information about this application, please contact the applicant, Brian Kowalski, City of Madison – Parks Division, 330 E Lakeside St Madison, WI 53715 at bkowalski@cityofmadison.com or (608)243-2848.

Applicant’s Comments:

The existing clubhouse building was designed by John J. Flad & Associates in the Contemporary style and constructed in 1956.

If you have any questions about the City’s application review process, please contact the City of Madison Planning Division at (608) 266-4635.

MADISON NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS AND UPDATES

Housing Tracker and Snapshot, New Neighborhood Farmers Market and Art Fair, Southwest and Southeast Area Plans, and more …

Housing Tracker and Snapshot

Like many other cities across the US, Madison is facing housing challenges felt throughout the community. Impacts on housing choice are felt strongest among our neighbors with low and moderate incomes and anyone interested in purchasing their first home.

Housing Tracker Graphic

Image credit: Planning

City staff want to make it easier for everyone to track housing data in Madison and community-wide progress toward addressing the city’s housing needs. Madison aims to see 15,000 new homes completed between 2025-2030, with 25% being affordable to low and moderate-income households. Follow Madison’s Housing Tracker to see recently completed housing, housing under construction, and affordable housing in areas close to where you live or work and throughout the city.

For a broader look at data related to housing and housing needs, see the 2025 Housing Snapshot Report. Dive deeper into 12 example households to better understand how incomes and other characteristics impact housing choices for our neighbors throughout Madison. If your group wants to schedule a quick presentation by city staff related to these housing data resources, please contact us at dpced@cityofmadison.com and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request in 2026.

Southwest and Southeast Area Plans Final Review and Approval Processes are underway

Final drafts of the Southwest Area Plan and Southeast Area Plan were introduced to the Common Council on May 5. See the Board, Commission and Committee review process below and click on the links the Friday before each meeting to view agendas and to register for public comment.

Upcoming Meetings

Thanks to everyone who participated in these planning processes!

WisDOT Reminder of No DMV Services at new Hill Farms Building

South DMV

Image credit: Wisconsin DOT

DYK that there is no public DMV service at the new Hill Farms DOT building? Many people are going there and getting turned away. This building is now the headquarters for many state agencies. Madison’s nearest DMVs are on the east side by the airport or on South Park Street. Others can be found at https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/online-srvcs/find-dmv/default.aspx). WisDOT asks that neighborhoods share the news with their residents so that folks don’t make unnecessary trips. Thank you!

Parks Division Annual Report

As we all know, the value of parks and open spaces to our community is immeasurable. Research shows that spending just 20 minutes outdoors can significantly reduce stress and improve well-being. In Madison, 98% of residents live within less than a 10-minute walk of a park or open space, making access to nature part of daily life for nearly everyone in our community. Although many visitors to Madison’s parks go uncounted, our annual reports offer a meaningful snapshot of the impact these spaces have on our community.

Check out Madison Parks 2025 Annual Report.

New Farmer’s Market at Junction Ridge Park Starts TODAY

The Junction Ridge Neighborhood Association is excited to launch a brand‑new Farmers’ Market on Madison’s west side. Located at Junction Ridge Park (8502 Elderberry Rd, just a block and a half off Junction Road), the market will run every Friday from May 15 through September 25, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shoppers can enjoy a wide selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, honey, eggs, meats, flowers, chocolates, and many other local goods.

First Hawthorne Art Fair is Tomorrow

flyer for Hawthorne Art Fair

Image credit: Hawthorne Neighborhood Association

We are thrilled to invite the community to a celebration that showcases the incredible talent of our local makers and creates a space for neighbors to connect.

When: Saturday, May 16, 2026, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Where: Hawthorne Open Space, Hawthorne Elementary School, 3344 Concord Ave. (enter Fair on Lexington Ave.)

There will be a diverse lineup of 25 vendors and artists, including:

  • The Dane County Trash Lab
  • MSCR Arts & Entertainment
  • Feed Kitchens
  • El Chisme Catering
  • And a special button sale created by Art Teacher Eva Presser-Dudley and the Hawthorne Elementary students!

Madison Bike Week is May 30-June 7 – Downtown Plan Featured June 2

Get ready for the biggest biking celebration in town! Madison Bike Week details are here: MSN Bike Week 2026 page. The week is all about riding anywhere—to work, to school, to the library—or simply to feel the warm wind blowing through your hair. Check out these fun opportunities to connect with City of Madison staff throughout the week:

  • Tuesday, June 2: Grab some coffee and a donut, muffin or fruit on the Capital City Path and discuss Downtown Madison’s future with City of Madison staff. The City is creating the Downtown Area Plan, and wants to hear your perspective on growth, housing, transportation and other issues you see in the community.  Hover boards welcome but please no DeLoreans on the path.
  • Thursday, June 4: RoundTrip Greater Madison program staff will host a Bikes, Buses & Treats celebration station with cookies, giveaways, and partners including Metro Transit, Madison BCycle, Madison Traffic Engineering, and WI Bike Fed. Stop by from 3:00-6:00 p.m. on the Cap City Trail @ E. Wilson and S. Ingersoll.

Streets Division Updates

  • Food Scraps Drop-off Updates: The South Madison Farmers’ market opens to accept scraps starting on Tuesday, May 19.  And, starting on June 1, 2023, the Streets Division drop-off sites will add food scraps drop-off as well. More details about can be found on the food scraps composting website.
  • Spring Yardwaste Pickup is Very Nearly Over:  Check the website before putting out yard waste for pickup.  
  • Drop-off Sites: Take yard waste, electronics, batteries, and many other things to one of the three Streets Division drop-off sites. Hours and locations can be found at on our website.
  • Recycling Tip – Black Plastic Plant Pots Go Into the Trash: It’s the season to start your garden, so you will start getting plants in those little crinkly black plastic pots from garden centers. You know what we’re talking about – they have little starter plants in them and they are kind of like trays?  Anyway – those black plastic plant pots go into the trash. Do not put them in the recycling.
  • Brush Collection Still Ongoing:  Remember to check the date when you should brush out for pickup.
  • Take the Recycling Survey: Our recycling survey is still live, and we would love to hear from you.  It is very short, so please fill it out and share it amongst your friends, neighbors, coworkers, and so on. You can find the survey on our recycling website.

The Monona Community Pool – A Summer of Fun!

 

JOHN NOLAN CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Latest Update 5/15/2026

General Project Information

The John Nolen Drive project includes reconstructing John Nolen Drive and six bridges that span the causeway. New curb and gutter with a raised median separating northbound and southbound traffic will narrow traffic lanes to calm high traffic speeds. The Capital City Trail will be moved further from the roadway with the addition of three new bridge structures, increasing pedestrian safety and greenspace along the corridor. The trail will also be widened, increasing the capacity of the trail, with separate paths for bikes and foot traffic.

Project Schedule
  • Stage 2 Start Date: November 24, 2025
  • Anticipated Stage 2 Completion: August 2026
Current Stage / Traffic Impacts

Stage 2

Work entails reconstructing southbound John Nolen Drive, reconstructing three bridges on the causeway, and the Basset to Bedford pedestrian path.

  • John Nolen Dr restricted to one lane each direction on existing northbound lanes

S Broom St intersection – Phase 2

Phase 2 work entails reconstructing the S Broom St intersection between northbound John Nolen Dr and the WSOR tracks

  • Broom St (full closure) closed between W Wilson St John Nolen Dr
  • Bike and pedestrian traffic detoured to North Shore during railroad reconstruction. Railroad work performed by others under contract with WSOR.
  • A temporary “all way stop” will remain at the S Bedford St/North Shore Dr intersection to address an anticipated increase of vehicle traffic
Upcoming Work/ Traffic Impacts

North Shore Dr intersection – Phase 2

Phase 2 work entails reconstructing outbound/eastbound lanes of North Shore. Work will occur after S Broom St reopens to traffic. Anticipated start is early-June

  • North Shore Dr (full closure) closed between S Bedford St and John Nolen Dr
  • Bike and pedestrian traffic detoured to S Broom St during railroad reconstruction. Railroad work performed by others under contract with WSOR.
Work Week of 5/18/26   

**Bike/Pedestrian: Crossing at Broom St remains closed. Posted detour to North Shore**

  • North bridge
    • Curing time for bridge deck
  • Middle bridge
    • Set girders (span 2)
    • Begin framing deck
  • South bridge
    • Curing time for approaches
  • Mainline concrete pavement for new southbound lanes
  • Curb/medians/sidewalk for Broom St
Work Week of 5/25/26
  • North bridge
    • Curing time for bridge deck
    • Concrete approaches
  • Middle bridge
    • Continue framing deck
    • Rebar for bridge deck
  • South bridge
    • Form and pour west parapet
  • Asphalt paving for Broom St
Motorist Impacts
  • All vehicles on John Nolen Dr use existing northbound lanes between Lakeside St and the Monona Terrace.
    • Both directions of traffic are reduced to one lane prior to entering the active work zone.
    • Signs have been installed on both end of the project to provide direction on where to “zipper merge”. Motorists should utilize all lanes and avoid early merging. More information can be found here:  Wisconsin Department of Transportation Zipper Merge
  • A temporary “ALL WAY STOP” condition has been installed at the intersection of S Bedford St and North Shore Dr. This will remain in place until all work in the Broom St intersection is complete.
Pedestrian/Bike Impacts
  • **The crosswalk on the north side of Broom St will be closed for 10 days starting Wednesday 5/13. Crosswalk users will be detoured to North Shore Dr.**      Sidewalk along the southern side of Broom St is open between W Wilson St and the Brittingham Dog Park.
  • The Capital City Trail remains open. No additional trail disruptions are anticipated until July of 2026. Cyclists are encouraged to dismount from their bikes when crossing active construction zones near S Broom St and North Shore Dr.
Waterway Impacts

A navigable channel will be open for the duration of the project under the middle set of bridges. The channel has red and green buoys to aid navigation and regulatory buoys to delineate hazards. No other channels will be open and waterway users should avoid entering areas with active construction

Please be alert when traveling along the John Nolen Drive corridor. Please note that some work is dependent on weather and may be subject to change. Thank you in advance for your patience throughout this project.

Contact Information

Mark Sponem, WisDOT – Project Manager

Email:  mark.sponem@dot.wi.gov

Dan Bauknecht, WisDOT – Project Engineer

Email:  daniel.bauknecht@dot.wi.gov

If you would like to be added to the weekly update distribution list, please sign up using the subscribe button on the project website or email your name and email address to  daniel.bauknecht@dot.wi.gov.

Progress Photos
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction
John Nolen Drive Construction

 

PROJECT UPDATES

Midvale Blvd Resurfacing & Safety Improvement Project

Location: 202 N Midvale Blvd
Estimated Schedule: May 18, 2026 – July 31, 2026

May 14, 2026 Update

Construction along Midvale Boulevard will begin the week of June 8, 2026.  Payne & Dolan is the contractor that will complete the work.  Construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of July 2026.

Jim Gottschalk, 608-261-9115, jgottschalk@cityofmadison.com, will be the best on-site contact throughout construction.

Please review the Construction Fact and Details document for additional information.

View project information

South Charter Street Alley

Location: 1219 Regent St
Estimated Schedule: April 27, 2026 – June 29, 2026

May 12, 2026 Update

Construction on the South Charter Street Alley will begin the week of May 25, 2026.  Madison Gas and Electric will be on site a few days prior, around May 20, 2026, to relocate gas main ahead of the City project.

Parisi Construction, LLC is the contractor that will complete the construction work.  Construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of June 2026.

Shawn Beer, 608-267-1970, sbeer@cityofmadison.com, will be the best on-site contact throughout construction.

Please review the Construction Fact and Details document for additional information.

View project information

Monona Seeks Citizens to Serve on Board of Review

 MononaLogo_Cityof_Color_Vert_WebService on a city board or committee is a great way to get involved in Monona. There are currently openings for members on the Board of Review.  The Board of Review is a quasi-judicial body made up of citizens which holds an annual hearing to hear objections from property taxpayers regarding their property assessments.  Interested residents should complete the citizen committee application or call (608) 222-2525 to request a paper application. If you have submitted an application for any of these committees in the past three years, your application will be considered. If you have any concerns about how to use Parliamentary Procedure or other questions, please don’t let them deter you. We’re happy to help!

View it on website

Free Legal Clinic May 28 at Neighborhood House

Neighborhood House is scheduling appointments for a Free Legal Clinic on Thursday May 28, 2026 from 4 – 6:30 pm.  To request an appointment with an attorney to discuss civil law, fill out this online form:  legal appointment request or give us a call on (608) 255-5337 to request an appointment or with questions.

Flyer about Legal Clinic at Neighborhood House

Image credit: Neighborhood House Community Center

Flyer in Spanish about May Legal Clinic at Neighborhood House

Image credit: Neighborhood House Community Center

May 14, 2026

Comprehensive Plan: TAKE THE SURVEY

 Monona Comp Plan _Survey_News Flashhttps://comprehensive-plan-2026-monona.hub.arcgis.com/

City of Monona Launches 2026 Comprehensive Plan Survey:
The City of Monona has begun the process of preparing its 2026 Comprehensive Plan update, a state‑required, once‑every‑ten‑years effort that guides the community’s long‑term growth, development, and overall vision. This update builds on the foundation of the 2016 Comprehensive Plan and will reflect Monona’s evolving needs, priorities, and opportunities. This is your opportunity to have your voice heard for the future of Monona!

The 2026 Comprehensive Plan will:

• Describe current community conditions and outline Monona’s desired future.

• Present detailed background information, including existing land use patterns, natural features, transportation systems, economic conditions, and population trends.

• Identify key issues facing the city today and highlight opportunities for future improvement.

• Establish citywide goals, objectives, and policies to guide responsible growth and development.

• Propose where future development should occur and how it should look, including a new Future Land Use Map to support land‑use planning decisions.

• Provide recommendations and strategies related to housing, sustainability, public health, natural resources, land use, transportation, community facilities, and economic development.

Community participation is a key component of the planning process. The public is invited to take the survey! https://comprehensive-plan-2026-monona.hub.arcgis.com/
Residents, business owners, and community stakeholders are encouraged to take part and share their perspectives.
For more information about the Comprehensive Plan update or upcoming engagement opportunities, please contact Doug Plowman, Director of Planning and Economic Development. Find more information about the Comprehensive Plan and how you can participate at the project website.

View it on website

METRO RIDER UPDATES

Reduced Service on May 25

Due to the Memorial Day holiday, Metro will operate Sunday schedules on Monday, 5/25.

Sunday service is available on:
Route ARoute BRoute CRoute DRoute ERoute FRoute GRoute HRoute JRoute LRoute ORoute PRoute R and Route S.

  • Route 80 operates a weekend recess schedule.
  • Routes 81-84 do not operate.

Customer Service

Metro’s call center will be available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The admin office/lost and found will be closed.

Paratransit Service

All standing rides are canceled on Monday, 5/25. Riders must schedule a casual ride to travel on the holiday.

Complete Details

 

Dane County Youth Governance Program Now Accepting Applications for 2026–2027 School Year

Applications open through June 26 for high school students interested in county government

DANE COUNTY, Wis. — The Dane County Youth Governance Program (YGP) is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 cohort. Applications are open from Monday, May 11, 2026, through Friday, June 26, 2026.

Established in 2012, the YGP offers high school students a meaningful opportunity to engage directly in county government decision-making, bring a youth perspective to local issues, and develop the skills needed to become the next generation of community leaders. Throughout the nine-month program, participants serve alongside elected county board supervisors on standing committees, with the same opportunities for participation as supervisors, with the distinction that their vote is advisory and non-binding.

Each participant is paired with a county board supervisor who serves as their mentor, providing one-on-one guidance throughout the year. Participants also meet regularly as a cohort to develop a group project presented to the full county board at the end of the program term.

“The Youth Governance Program is one of the most meaningful ways young people can engage with their county government,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles. “Participants don’t just observe the process; they sit at the table with supervisors, weigh in on real policy decisions, and bring perspectives that strengthen the board’s work. I encourage students across Dane County to apply.”

Who can applyStudents currently in grades 9–11 (entering grades 10–12 in the fall) who can commit to:

  • Attending at least 75% of in-person and virtual YGP meetings
  • Six to eight hours of YGP work per month from September through May

Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the county board’s standing committees and watch a committee meeting and a board meeting online before applying to get a sense of the work involved.

How to applyVisit the Dane County Youth Governance Program website at https://dane.extension.wisc.edu/to-apply/ for additional program details, expectations, and the application form.

Volunteers Needed | Ride the Drive

Ride the Drive is returning to Madison on Sunday, August 9, 2026. Since its start in 2009, this event has grown into a community celebration of health, the environment, and connection, made possible by volunteers like you.

Click Here to:

BECOME A VOLUNTEER

We invite you to join us and be part of another incredible day. This year, we are excited to welcome over 200 volunteers to help bring the event to life. Whether guiding at intersections, staffing booths, or helping with setup and cleanup, your role helps create a welcoming and vibrant experience across the city.

And yes, there is a little bonus this year.

Two shirts one ride.

Volunteers will receive the new 2026 Ride the Drive T shirt (no color chosen yet) and, you will also receive a 2025 shirt (hot pink, very sharp).

Why Volunteer?

  • Enjoy flexible shifts. Most positions are just 2 hours, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the event
  • Celebrate community. Connect with neighbors and help create a healthier and more vibrant Madison
  • Volunteer training available Wednesday, July 22, 6pm-7pm.  Zoom link will be provided.

Thank you for being part of what makes Ride the Drive so special. Your time and energy truly make this event possible.

Visit ridethedrive.com for additional information about the event including maps, vendor information, and more.

THANKS!

Draft SRTS Plan Public Meeting

The City of Madison is developing a Safe Routes to School Strategic Plan in conjunction with the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) and the Wisconsin Bike Fed. The draft plan provides policy and program recommendations to improve the safety, comfort, and accessibility for children walking and biking to school in Madison.

The City is hosting a virtual Public Information Meeting to provide an overview of the planning process, key recommendations in the plan, a description of how the public can comment on the plan, and time for questions and answers. The draft plan document and a comment form are currently posted on the Safe Routes to School Plan website. The meeting is Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 6:00pm to 7:00pm on Zoom. Registration is required for the meeting.

Register for the virtual Public Information Meeting

PARKS VOLUNTEER NEWSLETTER

City of Madison
Madison Parks logo, over a photo of a flowerbed. Photo credit: Liz Walker.

Help Remove Spring Invasives in Madison Parks

Join your neighbors and friends in caring for Madison Parks by helping remove garlic mustard and other invasive plants. These volunteer efforts support healthier natural areas and help protect native plants throughout the park system.

We have numerous invasive removal opportunities happening across Madison, with different parks, dates, and times available.

Who Can Volunteer? Ages 14 and older, unless otherwise noted

Come spend some time outside, learn a little about park stewardship, and help keep Madison’s natural areas healthy.

For more information, email John at: parksvolunteer@cityofmadison.com

Explore Volunteer Opportunities and Register Here

Two Shirts, One Ride!  Volunteer for Ride the Drive!

Ready to be a part of something amazing this summer? Join us for Ride the Drive 2026 on Sunday, August 9, from 10am to 2pm! We need enthusiastic volunteers like you to ensure this event is a success. Whether you’re directing traffic as an Intersection Guide, helping set up as part of the Setup Crew, or capturing smiles as a Hub Photographer, there’s a role for everyone. Plus, each volunteer receives a Ride the Drive tee, sunscreen, bug spray, water, and snacks! Don’t miss out—register now and be a vital part of this incredible community event. Spaces are filling up fast, so act now to secure your spot! Sign up today and let’s make this Ride the Drive the best one yet!

Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm (volunteer shifts vary)
Who Can Volunteer? Ages 14 and older

Sign up today! Explore opportunities and register at: Ridethedrive.com

For more information, email John at: parksvolunteer@cityofmadison.com

Register Online to Volunteer

Volunteer with Parks Alive This Summer

Parks Alive is back for its 5th year, with another packed summer of fun, activities, and community connection.

This year, Parks Alive will take place at 11 sites, with 3 events at each site throughout June, July, and August. Volunteers will help support these events by assisting with on-site tasks, welcoming residents, and helping create a positive and engaging environment for everyone who attends.

This is a great opportunity to connect with residents, support neighborhoods across Madison, and enjoy a fun community event series. Whether you are helping with activities, supporting event logistics, or chatting with community members, your role helps make Parks Alive welcoming and successful.

Volunteer time commitment:
Check-in: 4:30pm
Event time: 5:00pm to 7:00pm

Some events may have an indoor backup location in case of inclement weather. If an event is relocated or canceled, volunteers will be notified by email and phone using the contact information provided during registration.

For more information, please email John at: parksvolunteer@cityofmadison.com

Register Online to Volunteer

Volunteer as a Beach Cleanup Leader This Summer

Madison Parks is looking for Beach Cleanup Volunteer Leaders to help keep public beaches clean and welcoming from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Leaders coordinate a simple weekly cleanup at an assigned beach, help with light tasks like picking up litter, raking sand, and removing shoreline debris, and communicate with Parks staff about supplies or larger cleanup needs.

Time commitment: About 1 hour per week
Beaches still looking for leader: B.B. Clarke, Esther, Olbrich, Vilas, and Warner beaches

Tools and supplies can be provided. Cleanup times are flexible.

For more information, please email John at: parksvolunteer@cityofmadison.com

Register Online to Volunteer

AGEISM IN AN AGING SOCIETY

Countering Ageism in an Aging Society

According to the World Health Organization, “ageism is the stereotyping (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.” Ageism affects everyone. Children as young as four years old become aware of their culture’s age stereotypes. Ageism intersects and exacerbates other forms of disadvantage including those related to sex, race and disability.

We typically talk about ageism as an older adult issue, but it is much larger than that. It can change how we view ourselves and can erode solidarity between generations. Ageism results in devaluing contributions from both younger and older generations. In this article, we will focus on the effects of ageism towards older generations, but we fully acknowledge that it is embedded in our society as a multi-generational issue.

Ageism is one of the most socially accepted prejudices today. We all hope to grow old, but for many, aging comes with something unexpected: a loss of voice. Older adults often feel dismissed, unheard, and overlooked in everyday life. This occurs in healthcare, in the workplace, in social settings and even in the home or with family.

Ageism can significantly impact employment or advancement opportunities. 

  • In job applications that never get a call back.
  • Interviews that seem promising, until they see your gray hair.
  • Promotions that go to younger colleagues with less experience.
  • Assumptions that the older person on the team doesn’t possess the technical skills to do certain tasks.

Yale research study by Becca Levin and Martin Slade, found that a positive attitude toward aging on average increases life span by 7.5 years. People with a negative attitude experience poorer physical and mental health and slower recovery from disability in older age. Ageism also increases risky health behaviors such as eating an unhealthy diet, drinking excessively or smoking, and reduces quality of life.

The National Center to Reframe Aging began as an initiative in 2012. They are dedicated to ending ageism by advancing an equitable and complete story about aging in America. They are raising awareness of how embedded ageism is in what say, write and think. A very common thing that we have all heard and probably said when referring to a memory lapse is “senior moment.” In truth, everyone loses their train of thought or misplaces their keys.

I encourage you to think about your own biases toward older or younger people. What thoughts pop up in your head that are age related when someone does or says something annoying? How often do you blame age for what you can or cannot do well?

Moreso than ever, we live in a multi-generational society, and we need to appreciate each other’s strengths and weaknesses. As birth mortality drops and lifespan increases, accepting and appreciating the knowledge and contributions of people across the age spectrum is the only way our community will thrive and become the best it can be.

This content is free for use with credit to Madison Senior Center.

View full blog post

Dane County Board Recognizes Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi American Heritage Month

DANE COUNTY, Wis. — On Thursday, May 14, 2026, the Dane County Board of Supervisors officially recognized May 2026 as Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi American (APIDA) Heritage Month. The board passed 2026 RES-014 to mark this observance and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and resilience of APIDA communities locally and nationally.

The 2026 theme, “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together,” emphasizes the importance of collective action, storytelling, and building bridges among APIDA communities. The resolution also acknowledges the history of exclusionary laws and policies targeting Asian Americans, as well as the ongoing impacts of racism, xenophobia, and inequitable immigration policies on APIDA communities today.

“A staggering 49% of AAPI adults have experienced a hate act in 2025. This, coupled with recent rhetoric suggesting that China and India are ‘overrunning’ our country and that AAPI Americans have ‘almost no loyalty,’ reaffirms the urgency and necessity of this resolution,” said First Vice Chair Yogesh Chawla (District 6). “AAPI Americans have made foundational contributions across all sectors of our economy, our community, and our culture. I am grateful that so many in Dane County and across Wisconsin are taking the opportunity to welcome our community and acknowledge our contributions.”

“The resolution highlights the rich diversity of APIDA communities, recognizes the historical and ongoing challenges they have faced — including exclusionary immigration laws, incarceration, racism, xenophobia, anti-Asian violence, and inequitable immigration policies — and reaffirms Dane County’s commitment to equity, inclusion, immigrant and refugee protections, and belonging for all residents,” said Supervisor Yang (District 19). “Our strength as a county comes from the diversity of cultures, experiences, and perspectives our residents bring. APIDA Heritage Month is a chance to celebrate those contributions and recommit to ensuring every member of our community feels seen, valued, and supported.”

The board also recognized APIDA milestones on the county board, including Supervisor Brenda Yang as the first person of Hmong heritage to serve on the board, former Supervisor Ashok Kumar and current Supervisor Yogesh Chawla as the first and second Desi Americans elected to the board, Chair Patrick Miles as the first person of color and first Asian American to serve as county board chair, and Jeff Okazaki as the first person of Asian heritage appointed as Dane County Clerk of Courts. Dane County also values the diversity, knowledge, and experience its Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi American employees bring to county service.

“AMASIAN is deeply honored to accept this resolution recognizing Asian Americans in Dane County. As an organization, we are proud to serve as a central hub for Madison’s Asian American community by connecting individuals and families to resources, cultural events, and meaningful programming,” said Anne Marie Malachowski, president of AMASIAN. “We believe that working together and uplifting one another builds a stronger community for all.”

The Dane County Board of Supervisors reaffirms its commitment to promoting diversity, ensuring equity, protecting immigrant and refugee communities, and fostering inclusion for all Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi American communities.

Dane County Board Recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

DANE COUNTY, Wis. — On Thursday, May 14, 2026, the Dane County Board of Supervisors officially recognized June 15, 2026, as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Dane County. The board passed 2026 RES-019 to raise awareness about elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue and to urge all residents to honor, protect, and advocate for older adults.

2026 marks the 20th annual observance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Research indicates that at least 10 percent of adults age 65 and older experience some form of elder abuse in a given year. In 2025, there were 505 reports of elder abuse investigated in Dane County.

“Older adults are pillars of our communities, including in the rural parts of Dane County I represent, where they serve as mentors, volunteers, and the keepers of local history,” said Supervisor Patrick Downing (District 30), who read the resolution. “Elder abuse often goes unseen, especially in places where neighbors may live miles apart. Recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a reminder that protecting older adults is everyone’s responsibility, no matter where they call home.”

The resolution notes that ageism and social isolation are major drivers of elder abuse and emphasizes the importance of maintaining and strengthening social supports, including senior centers, human services, and transportation, so older adults can continue to live independently and remain connected to their communities.

The Dane County Board of Supervisors reaffirms its commitment to fostering a community that honors, protects, engages, and advocates for older adults in pursuit of a community without elder abuse. If you suspect elder abuse or neglect, contact the Dane County Department of Human Services Adult Protective Services Division Helpline at (608) 261-9933. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call or text 911.

WATER MAIN FLUSHING UPDATE

Water Main Flushing plans beginning Monday May 18th (all flushing is daytime unless otherwise noted)

 

MAP:  https://www.cityofmadison.com/water/documents/water-quality/FlushingSchedule.pdf

East (Area 15) – West of the Airport THEN; north of E Washington Ave. east of Portage Rd.

South (Area 30) – South of Moorland Rd. between Rimrock Rd. and South Towne Dr.

West (Area 6) – Franklin Ave. to Spooner St. north of Regent St.

West (Area 12) – South of Odana Rd. and east of Midvale Blvd.

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Questions: Shayne Santi, 261-9128

Flushing Information Line: 261-9178

DETAILS:

Area 15 (East): 5-7 runs per day

Run ID Run Description

15150  International Ln (N.Darwin Rd)

15151  Darwin Rd (International Ln-Packers Ave)

15152  Swanson St- Shaw St – Grimm St

15153  International Ln ( DarwinRd-Anderson St)

15154  American Ln

15155  Shaw St (International Ln-Swanson St)

15156  International Ln (Packers Ave-Grim St-Pankratz St)

15156.2           International Ln (Anderson to Packers)

15156.3           Skuldt St

15157  Grim St (Anderson St- Shaw St)

15158  Anderson St (Packers Ave-Swanson St)

15158.2           1922 Packers Ave  to 2104 International Ln

15158.3           Packers Ave (International Ln –  Darwin Rd)

15159  E.International Ln & W. Pankratz St (S.of Anderson St)

15160  Anderson St (International Ln- Grim St)

15161  Anderson St (Grim St-Swanson St)

15162  Pankratz St

15200.1           East Washington (Lien Rd- Columbus Ln)

15200.2           Parkside Dr (E.Washington Ave-Lien Rd)

15201  Portage Rd (E. Washington Ave – Melody Ln)

15202  Dwight Dr (Portage Rd-Independence Ln)

15203  Duke St (Portage Rd- Dwight Dr)

15204  Lukken Ct

15205  Sunnyside Crescent

15206  Meadow Vale Ct

15207  Stuart Ct

15208  Portage Rd –  David Rd

15209  Melody Ln (Portage Rd- Columbus Ln)

15210  Independence Ln (Melody Ln-Dwight Dr)

15211  Crestline Dr-Melody Ln

15212  Green Ridge Ct

15213  Clarendon Ct

15214  Pepper Wood Ct-Green Ridge Dr

15215  Derek Rd-David Rd

15216  Green Ridge Dr (Derek Rd-Clarendon Ct)

15217  Derek Rd-Crest Line Dr

15218  Forest Dale Ct (Derek Rd-Crestline Dr)

15219  Forest Dale Ct-Crest Line Dr

15220  Portage Rd (David Rd-Tomscot Trl)

 

 

 

Area 30 (South): 3-5 runs per day

Run ID Run Description

30005  Fell Rd – Engelhart Dr (Moorland to Ward)

30006  Warner St – Warner Ln – Marcus Ct (Moorland to N end Marcus)

30006.1           Arther Ct

30006.2           Book Ct

30007  Warner St – Seven Nations Dr – Salem Dr (Warner Ln to Maloney)

30008  Diving Hawk Trl – Salem Dr (Seven Nations to Maloney)

30009  Settlement Dr – Diving Hawk Trl – Salem Dr (Engelhart to Maloney)

30010  Lone Eagle Dr (Settlement to Maloney)

30011  2849 Warner St

30012  Ward Ct

30013  Spear Cir

30014  Artesian Ln

30015  Geronimo Cir

30016  3013 Artesian Ln

30017  3025 Artesian Ln

30018  3037 Artesian Ln

30019  Dunwoody Dr and Seven Nations Dr

30019.1           Kiowa Ct

30020  Badger Lane from Moorland Road through Rockwood Drive to Seven Nations Dr.

 

Area 6 (West): 4-6 runs per day

Run ID Run Description

6006.1 Franklin Ave (University to Mason)

6006.2 Lynn Terrace

6007    Franklin Ave – Mason St (Regent to Shepard)

6007.2 Shepard Terrace

6007.3 Chamberlain Av – Shepard Ter (Franklin to S end Shepard)

6007.4 Van Hise Av – Shepard Ter (Franklin to S end Shepard)

6073    Barlow St

6074    Stevens St (Shepard to Quarry Park)

6008    Stevens St (Franklin to Grand)

6009    Kendall Ave (Franklin to Grand)

6010    Chamberlain Ave (Franklin to Grand)

6011    Van Hise (Grand to W end Van Hise)

6012    Mason St (Franklin to Grand)

6013    University (Franklin to Grand)

6013.1 Grand Ave (Regent to Kendall)

6014    Farley Ave – Park Place (University to Grand)

6015    Farley Ave – Park Place  (Regent to Grand)

6018    University Ave – Birge Ter (Grand to E end Birge)

6019    Chamberlain Ave – Campus Dr (University to Paunack)

6020    Paunack Place

6021.1 Walnut St – University to Gifford Pinchot,  12″ Main

6022    Kendall Ave (Grand to Chestnut)

6023    Chamberlain Ave (Grand to Chestnut)

6024    Highland  Ave – Speedway Rd (University to  S end Speedway)

6025    Van Hise Ave (Grand to Elm)

6026    Chestnut St (University to Van Hise)

6027    Joss Ct – (Highland to Chestnut)

6028    Ash St (Regent to Van Hise)

6029    Chadbourne Ave (Ash to Roby)

6030    Van Hise Ave (Ash to Roby)

 

 

 

Area 12 (West): 3-5 runs per day

Run ID Run Description

10015  Whenona Dr  from Warwick to Milford

10016  Britta Parkway

10017  Crawford Dr and Helene Parkway

10018  Britta Dr

10019  De Volis Parkway  North Side

10020  De Volis Parkway  South Side

10021  Axel Ave  De Volis to Crawford

10022  Seminole Hwy  from Warwick to Sheffield

10023  W Beltline Frontage Rd from Whenona to Seminole

10024  Lumley Rd

10025  Sheffield Rd

10026  Danbury St (Beltline to Milford) and Milford Rd (Danbury to Whenona)

10027  Seminole Hwy  from Sheffield to the South End of Seminole

10028  Milford (Seminole to Danbury), Danbury (Milford to Lilac), Lilac Ln

10029  Windflower Way

10030  Daisy Dr

10031  Clover Ct

10033  Manitou (Seminole to Tumalo)

10034  Manitou (Tumalo to Cherokee)

10035  Iroquois (Manitou to 1st hyd E of Country Club)

10036  Iroquois (Manitou to Country Club) AND Country Club (Iroquoi N to 1st hyd)

10037  Mandan-Manitou connector (4154 Manitou to hyd on E side of Manitou)

10037.1           Manitou (Iroquois N to 1st hyd)

10038  Waban Hill (1st hyd S of Nakoma to Cherokee) AND Cherokee (W. Hill N to 2nd hyd)

10039  Waban Hill (Nakoma S to 1st hyd) AND Nakoma (W.Hill to Yuma)

10040  Nakoma (Yuma to Cherokee) AND Manitou (Cherokee S to 1st hyd)

10041  Seminole (Manitou to Mandan)

10042  Mandan Cres (Nakoma to Seminole)

10043  Seminole (Mandan to Tumalo)

10044.2006     Connector (Waban Hill to Mandan Cres.) AND Mandan (connector S to 1st hyd)

10045.2012     Mandan Cres – Waban Hill to 4238 Mandan

10046  Mandan Cres from Seminol Hwy to Tumalo Trl

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