🍎 It may be harder to pick apples this fall

🧑‍🎨 AI-Powered Art Comes to MMoCA: An upcoming exhibit at the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, Diffuse Control by Wisconsin digital artist Beeple, will use generative art technology to turn artwork from the museum’s permanent collection into an endless stream of imagery.

• An open letter is circulating on Reddit in protest of the exhibit, saying that it uses the works of the artists without their consent and is “technology based on theft.” What do you think? [MMOCA, Reddit]

🏫 Schools Revisiting Discipline Policy: The Madison School Board is creating a new committee to reassess the district’s 2014 student discipline policy. While the policy was intended to minimize suspensions and reduce disparities, 2024-25 district records show that two out of 10 students with disabilities and three out of 10 Black students received suspensions, compared to one out of 10 students in general. [Cap Times]

🇬🇧 Epic Builds Across the Pond: Epic Systems is building a new campus near Bristol, England, but it won’t have all the quirky amenities of its Verona flagship. The campus in Long Ashton will feature two buildings and a training center, and its architecture will fit in with the character of rural England, Epic officials said. No word on whether or not that means more or less Hogwarts-inspired spaces. [🔒WSJ, Facebook]

🍎 What’s at the Core of Orchard Shortages? Wisconsin orchards have fewer apples on hand this season, which is leading to higher prices for apples and cider.

• An unexpected spring freeze, including a four-night run of freezing temperatures in April, wiped out half the apple crop at Door Creek Orchard in Cottage Grove. The owner of Fitchburg’s Eplegaarden says it wasn’t as hard hit, but some trees did not produce many apples this year. [WKOW, Door Creek Orchard, Eplegaarden]

🩸 UW Defends Blood Drive Title: The “We Give Blood” drive hosted by Abbott and the Big 10 is taking place through Sept. 2 at the Nicholas Recreation Center on Dayton Street. Last year, UW-Madison got a $1 million grant from Abbott for receiving the most donations. The timing couldn’t be better since the nation is currently facing a blood shortage. [WKOW, 🎧 City Cast Madison]

🪂 ‘Why Not Do It Naked?’ Skydiving? I can think of several reasons why not... [News 3]

Meet Smiley! This 45-pound young adult has a lot of happiness to share! He is friendly, snuggly, and loves being around people. He leans in for pets and may even lay at your feet just to stay close. Smiley is food motivated and loves receiving treats (who doesn’t?), and is a big fan of playing and running around the yard.

When it comes to meeting other dogs, Smiley can be a little nervous, so he’s looking for a patient family who will help him build confidence and continue working on his positive reinforcement training. With time, encouragement, and lots of love, Smiley is ready to keep learning and thriving!