📝 Library card hacks

🦁 Check Out the Zoo Lights

• Through Dec. 30 you can experience the Henry Vilas Zoo after hours under the glow of holiday lights. The annual Zoo Lights event runs on weekends with a few weeknight events in late December. This year’s display is the brightest yet, featuring over one million LED bulbs. [Henry Vilas Zoo]

🚔 Meet Madison’s Independent Police Monitor

• The city is hosting a listening session this week for community members interested in learning more about and giving feedback to the Police Civilian Oversight Board and the Office of the Independent Monitor. The main objective of the session is to get input on the groups’ complaint process, which is the main way the community interacts with the groups. As a bonus, there will be free dinner provided.
• The details: The session will be Nov. 29 at the Madison Municipal Building from 6-8 p.m.
• What is the Office of the Independent Monitor? The department is an independent avenue for civilians to investigate and monitor the activities of the Madison Police Department. It’s overseen by the Police Civilian Oversight Board. [City of Madison, Madison Minutes]

🏈 Badgers Go Across the Pond

• For the first time in decades, UW-Madison’s football team will play a regular season game in another country. The Badgers will play a road game against Pitt in Ireland — in 2027.
• Wisconsin's only other game in a foreign country was in 1993 when the Badgers played Michigan State in the Coca-Cola Bowl in Tokyo, Japan. For the record, Wisconsin won that game 41-20. [UW Athletics]

⚖️ Lunchtime Read: Wisconsin’s Legislative Maps Are Bizarre, but Are They Illegal?

• “Wisconsin’s gerrymandering case has garnered national attention. But a little-explored aspect of the suit — the pervasive presence of ‘Swiss cheese’ districts — could have huge ramifications for the outcome.” [Propublica]
• Dig deeper: Data science has made it easier than ever to create maps designed to ensure political outcomes, here’s how. [City Cast Madison]

Monday, Nov. 27

• David Landau Kids Show at The Harmony Bar and Grill
• Read a Book & Learn to Cook: Sweet Potato Macaroni & Cheese! at Willy Street Co-op—West

Your Guide to Madison Experiences & Gifts for Kids This Season

Now that the holiday season is in full swing, maybe you’re looking for festive things to do with the kiddos in your life? Local dad Aaron Seligman with his blog, MacaroniKID Madison, has you covered.