There's something no longer in the water

🎙️ Episode Overview: In this week's episode, Rob Chappell, Omar Waheed, and Nicholas Garton break down the latest election results, highlight business updates in Madison, and discuss community issues making waves across Wisconsin. Special guest Alicia Williams, a write-in candidate for the DeForest Village Board, joins the conversation to talk about her candidacy and the fluoride controversy prompting her run.     🗳️ Key Topics Discussed: Election Results: Madison City Council Primaries: Surprising outcomes in key districts: Business Highlights: Minding My Black-Owned Business Pop-Up: Happening this Saturday at Elver Park Neighborhood Center from 12-3 PM, featuring 40 vendors, raffles, and food. Candigenous THC Drinks: Wisconsin's first Indigenous-owned cannabis company, founded by Rob Pero, has launched its Up Tempo, Down Tempo, and Mid Tempo THC-infused drinks. Available at local shops like Willy Street Co-op and online. Fluoride Controversy in DeForest: The DeForest Village Board voted to remove fluoride from the town's water, sparking significant community concern. Alicia Williams, a community health worker, shares how the lack of resident input and expert consultation inspired her write-in campaign for the village board. Charter School Debate in Madison: The Madison School Board is deliberating the proposed Forward College and Career Academy, backed by Michael Johnson and John McKenzie, aimed at providing career pathways in skilled trades. If MMSD rejects the charter, the organizers may seek authorization from the University of Wisconsin, though that would divert state funding from MMSD schools. Empanada Detour in Deerfield: Omar Waheed's quest for a water tower photo in DeForest led him to the wrong town entirely, where he stumbled upon an incredible empanada shop.     🏛️ Guest Spotlight: Alicia Williams: Write-in candidate for DeForest Village Board, community health worker at Humana, and advocate for sustainable community growth, affordable housing, and informed decision-making in local government.     📅 Upcoming Events & Action Items: 🛍️ Minding My Black-Owned Business Pop-Up: Saturday, Elver Park Neighborhood Center, Noon–3 PM. 🗳️ Spring elections: Tuesday, April 1 📚 Madison School Board Meeting: Tuesday – Charter school vote expected. 📣 If you're affected by federal funding cuts, DEI investigations, or have insights on community issues, reach out to us at [email protected] or call 608-229-1597 (calls only - that number can't get texts). Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit madison365.org/donate to contribute. 🔗 Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram | Threads | LinkedIn 🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!