✈️ MSN qualifies for noise mitigation funds

🗳️ Mayor Rhodes-Conway Wants Four More Years

• Madison Mayor Sayta Rhodes Conway announced Thursday she will seek reelection in the spring. She told a group of supporters and press that she is “ really proud of what we've accomplished together, but we have so much more to do.”
• Rhodes-Conway was first elected in 2019 after successfully running against longtime Mayor Paul Soglin. She won again in 2023 against challenger Gloria Reyes. Rhodes-Conway is the first to announce her campaign for the spring 2027 election.
• 🎧 On today’s podcast: Host Bianca Martin and executive producer Hayley Sperling discuss the Mayor’s announcement, the cyclospora outbreak, and summer bugs. Listen in! [🎧 City Cast Madison, 🔒 Wisconsin State Journal]

😷 Wisconsin’s Air Quality Tops Records

• The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says Thursday’s smoke levels were the worst on record. While the air quality impacts us all, children, older adults, pregnant people, and people with heart or lung disease are more susceptible to health problems from poor air quality. If you experience chest tightness or shortness of breath, you should get inside immediately, preferably somewhere with air conditioning.
• Conditions are still expected to be bad today and smoke may continue to linger in parts of the state into Monday.
• Public Health Madison and Dane County recommends running an air purifier (learn to make one here), avoiding outdoor activities, wearing a mask, and going to public places with AC. [WPR, PHMDC, City Cast Madison]

✈️ MSN Eligible for Noise Mitigation Money

• The Federal Aviation Administration approved the Dane County Regional Airport for its Noise Compatibility Program last week. That means the airport can apply for funding to outfit homes in the surrounding area with new windows, doors, and insulation to help with sound issues.
• The airport is also looking to buy land and expand a runway to allow for departure routes that avoid densely populated areas. [The Federal Register, News 3]

🎶 Long Time Radio Host Is Retiring

• Dr. Jonathan Øverby will be retiring after more than three decades hosting “The Road to Higher Ground with Jonathan Øverby” on Wisconsin Public Radio. The program has evolved over the decades from a talk show to a live music program to its current format as a world music show.
• The Wisconsin Broadcasters Association hall of famer also hosts and executive produces the annual State of Wisconsin MLK Jr. Tribute and Ceremony. He intends to continue leading the event following his retirement.
• For the time being, the station will continue to air encore episodes of the program on Saturday evenings. [WPR]

AC/DC fans are about to get shook all night long! The legendary band is bringing their “Power Up” tour to Camp Randall this Sunday. While the stadium hosted Coldplay and Morgan Wallen last summer, these Aussie rock gods are delivering the only summer concert at Camp Randall this year.

If you’re ready to rock with Angus Young, Brian Johnson, Stevie Young, and the rest of the crew live in Madison, we’ve got some tips for you – including how to get tickets and where to find a pre-show tailgate!

🤘 50+ Years of AC/DC

The Young brothers ignited AC/DC in Sydney, Australia, over half a century ago, turning into one of the best-selling bands of all-time. Fun fact: their electrifying name was actually inspired by the label on a sewing machine’s power adaptor. Down under, fans lovingly call them “Acca Dacca,” and they even have their own street — AC/DC Lane — a legendary cobblestone alley in the heart of Melbourne’s business district.

💵 Let There Be (Rock)

Still need to score your passes to the show? You’re in luck. Standard tickets are currently available starting around $100. If you want to get thunderstruck from a prime vantage point, there are a handful of platinum seats going for $333 each.

This week’s Friday Floof is Rocket Theodore. He is a Shih Tzu–Schnauzer mix with “a story and a heart that’s way bigger than his size. Rocket was rescued through Brown Paws Rescue after being found wandering the streets of Lubbock, Texas, and it’s hard to believe someone could ever let him go — because he is truly the sweetest boy,” his owner Chassittie says.

“He lights up every room he’s in, loves people deeply, and if you’re a fan of hugs and cuddles, he is absolutely your dog. At just one year old, he already has the most adorable underbite that makes it impossible not to smile. And don’t let his small size fool you — Rocket is loyal and protective, always ready to look out for the people he loves.”

I’m so happy Chassitti and Rocket found each other! Do you have a floof who deserves a spotlight? Share their story with us 💙