365 Amplified

The Madison Common Council met Tuesday for the first time since we reported allegations of domestic abuse against one of its members – allegations he has repeatedly denied. This week, we have a recap of that meeting, which included some contentious discussion of a resolution of support for survivors of domestic abuse. We also get updates on the next chapter for beloved Vietnamese restaurant Ha Long Bay, and Mt. Zion Baptist Church’s new building project. Plus, Yee Leng Xiong joins us from Marathon County to get us up to speed on his campaign to become the first Hmong American member of the Wisconsin State Assembly. And finally … what cuisine did Top Chef Wisconsin miss?   Links:   In wake of domestic abuse allegations against an alder, Council passes resolution “affirming unwavering support” of survivors; calls for censure and resignation continue   Myadze denies allegations of abuse in statement; fellow alders say they can’t remove him from office   Madison Alder accused of domestic abuse; alleged victim calls for vote of no confidence   MTZ Charitable hosts luncheon highlighting capital campaign for new Family Life Center   Ha Long Bay to enter ‘new era’ under second generation of family ownership   Resources for anyone experiencing domestic violence: National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 Domestic Abuse Intervention Services: Call 608-251-4445 or text 608-420-4638 UNIDOS Against Domestic Violence: Call 800-510-9195

On today’s edition, we round up a few stories from the week: the state files a lawsuit against an employer accused of firing employees when they organized; a Madisonian is a finalist for a Hugo Award; and a County Board supervisor says “sin is the root cause” of homelessness. Then, we visit the headquarters of Urban Triage, where founder and CEO Brandi Grayson gives us an update on the organization’s activities and programs, and previews next month’s Black Brilliance Gala fundraiser.   Links:   State sues owner of Crushin It Promotions, alleging unlawful labor practices   Sci-Fi zine GigaNotoSaurus, edited by Madison writer LaShawn Wanak, nominated for a Hugo Award   “Sin is the root cause” of homelessness, Dane County Supervisor says   Black Brilliance Gala Tickets   Black Brilliance Gala Volunteer Opportunities   Nominate an Unsung Hero

University of Wisconsin Multicultural Student Center director Claudia Guzman joins the show to help us celebrate the 35th anniversary of the MSC’s beginning within the Wisconsin Union. She also has an announcement – the Wisconsin Union and MSC teamed up to create a special limited edition Mini Terrace Chair – a tiny version of the iconic furniture found in only one place in the world. She and our cohost Stephanie (who helped on the design of the chairs, among other things related to the anniversary) talk about the inspiration for this specific design. Claudia also talks about what the anti-DEI push has meant for the MSC and what’s in store for the future.    Plus, our own Omar Waheed has done some pretty deep digging on the cannabis industry in Wisconsin and talks us through the issues and opportunities there, especially for Indigenous nations.

It’s Spring Break, so we have an abbreviated episode this week. Fitchburg Common Council candidate Donald Dantzler joins us to talk about his vision for one of the area’s fastest-growing cities. He’s also on the Police & Fire Commission and chairs the Madison College board of trustees, so we also get an update on the search for the college’s next president.

The gang’s all here! It’s just the 365 team this week talking through some important stories from the week. First, it’s Ramadan, and our own Omar Waheed put together a list of Muslim-owned businesses you can support during the holy month. He also educates us a bit about what Ramadan is and how it’s practiced. Then, we hear from David Dahmer about a major gift to Centro Hispano, Centro’s new building and how it’ll serve the Latino community center’s mission. Finally, after we reported on some problematic elements in the new language arts curriculum approved by the Sun Prairie school board (and talked about it on the podcast last week), we got an email saying we were wrong. But that email, and a few others, actually raised more questions. On this week’s podcast, the team talks through all the developments. Finally, what’s your special talent? Our reporting team has some surprising answers.

Earlier this week the Sun Prairie school board voted to approve the purchase of new language arts curriculum that some parents and community members felt is, at best, not culturally competent, especially in its depictions of Native American culture. Today, the team – including Rodlyn-mae Banting and Omar Waheed, both of whom reported on the issue for Madison365 – talks through the issues with the curriculum, the response from the community, and the much bigger issues at stake. Then, we hear from 2022 Wisconsin Teacher of the Year Kabby Hong on a the state Senate’s approval of a law requiring Asian American history be taught in Wisconsin schools. And finally, a grab-bag of stuff: our Most Influential Native Americans list, our new print magazine, the awards we’re nominated for and whether we prefer to spring forward or fall back.   Helpful links:   https://madison365.com/sun-prairie-school-board-approves-purchasing-new-english-curriculum-some-community-members-find-culturally-offensive/   https://madison365.com/sun-prairie-parents-push-back-on-proposed-curriculum-seen-as-racist-vote-coming-monday/   https://madison365.com/wisconsin-senate-passes-bill-to-require-asian-american-history-in-schools/   https://madison365.com/madison365-finalist-for-five-milwaukee-press-club-awards-including-best-local-news-website/

Fitchburg alder Joe Maldonado announced last week that he’s running for the Assembly to represent Fitchburg, Stoughton, parts of McFarland and rural areas in between. He joins the show today to talk about what his legislative priorities would be if elected – leading with youth services and development. We also talk velour, braids, and Norwegian food. Then, we chat with Derek Nhieu and Emma Lazaroff about POC-IT, a group convened on the online platform Discord to provide a social space for Madison’s people of color, which grew out of a Reddit thread. Finally, we get a taste of OuttaDeeBox, the newest podcast on the 365 Network; learn what goes into reporting on a vice presidential visit; and name the outdoor activities we’re looking forward to – or avoiding – as the weather warms up.   Useful links:   https://madison365.com/fitchburg-alder-joe-maldonado-announces-bid-for-state-assembly/   https://madison365.com/poc-it-new-group-provides-place-and-space-for-madisons-bipoc-residents-to-socialize-together/   To join POC-IT, email nhieu.derek@gmail.com or emmaevl@gmail.com.   https://madison365.com/in-visit-to-madison-vice-president-kamala-harris-touts-apprenticeship-programs-creating-good-paying-union-jobs/

Omar Waheed reports from Baraboo (2:26), where the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association is holding its second annual conference. He talked with a half dozen leaders in the industry about the conference, the possibilities – especially for Indigenous entrepreneurs — and the legislative challenges. Plus, Green Bay school superintendent Dr. Claude Tiller resigned after appearing on a radio show in Atlanta, and a school board member resigned a week later. Stephanie, Rob and Dave talk through what led to that (34:57), now that we have the audio from the radio show and some sense as to what prompted the school board to launch an investigation. And speaking of school superintendents, a Madison native will be the next leader of MMSD (52:40). Dave shares some memories of interviewing him when he was a principal here and we talk through what the school board can expect from him.   Helpful links:   https://madison365.com/madison-based-dispensary-herbal-aspect-monona-police-hold-challenging-cannabis-conversations-to-build-relationships/   https://madison365.com/green-bay-school-district-begins-new-superintendent-search-after-superintendent-dr-claude-tiller-resigns/   https://madison365.com/green-bay-school-boards-only-person-of-color-resigns/

Hello 365 Amplified subscribers! On March 7, The OuttaDeeBox Podcast will officially become part of the 365 Media Network, with new episodes every other Thursday. Watch Madison365.org/Podcasts for new episodes or search for OuttaDeeBox on your favorite podcast app. In the meantime, here’s a classic episode from the OuttaDeeBox archives!  From the unforgiving streets of Humboldt Park, Chicago, to the relentless drive of entrepreneurship, our guest J-Ball has a tale that's nothing short of cinematic. His life, marred by the crack era's cruelty and the agony of familial betrayal, unfolds like a masterclass in resilience. Amidst the backdrop of gang violence and systemic oppression, J-Ball's story is a searing exploration of the human spirit's capacity to endure and evolve. As we unravel his journey, you'll be riveted by the raw honesty of a man who refused to be defined by his past. Our conversation with J-Ball shifts gears as we track his ascent from a series of temp jobs to becoming a master of the wholesale game. The party rental business 'Circle of Fun' was just the beginning of his business ventures, demonstrating J-Ball's knack for identifying opportunities and adapting to market demands. His transformation into a successful wholesaler is peppered with essential business insights, from the significance of multiple income streams to the savvy art of pricing. If you're tangled in the grind or dreaming of financial liberation, J-Ball's entrepreneurial playbook is a treasure trove of strategies and real-world tips. Wrapping up, J-Ball lays the groundwork for anyone inspired to set up their own business, especially those who've experienced the inside of a cell looking out. From the basics, like naming your enterprise and cutting through the red tape, to the strategic selection of commercial space and the intricacies of insurance, his advice is golddust for newcomers and seasoned business owners alike. J-Ball's relentless energy and shrewd business acumen come to life in this episode, serving as a beacon of hope and a practical guide for all who seek to leave a mark in commerce.  

The state legislature will look quite different after the November elections, thanks to new legislative district maps recently approved by the Assembly, Senate and Governor. State Representative Jimmy Anderson joins the show today to talk through how those maps came about and what they mean to you, the elections, and the future of the state. Plus, State Rep. Shelia Stubbs sits down with our editor in chief David Dahmer to talk about her proposed legislation to create a Task Force on Missing and Murdered African American Women and Girls. And in the midst of all that, some disturbing stories about driver education in Iowa and our weather predictions for spring.   NOTE: Wisconsin Vote and the state legislature website do not, in fact, make it easy to see your new district. However, Erik Paulson created a helpful website to do just that, with help from John D. Johnson of the Marquette Law School Lubar Center. If you click on a dot, it’ll show the current district in orange and the new one in blue.    https://epaulson.github.io/2024-wisconsin-maps/   Here’s our story on the Stubbs proposal:   https://madison365.com/wisconsins-delta-sigma-thetas-work-to-create-task-force-on-missing-and-murdered-african-american-women-and-girls/  

Hello 365 Amplified subscribers! On March 7, The OuttaDeeBox Podcast will officially become part of the 365 Media Network, with new episodes every other Thursday. Watch Madison365.org/Podcasts for new episodes or search for OuttaDeeBox on your favorite podcast app. In the meantime, here’s a classic episode from the OuttaDeeBox archives!  Today, Stacey Clay lays bare his life's journey from the streets of Milwaukee to become a beacon of transformation. As a certified peer specialist at Athesis Therapy, Stacey recounts the trials he faced, including bullying, substance abuse, and a 28-year incarceration. He shares the epiphany that carved his path towards accountability and self-discovery and emphasizes the breakthroughs that shape the future, no matter the past. The resonance of Stacey's experiences within the prison walls echoes through the tales of his transformative realizations. Imagine learning about Jeffrey Dahmer's fate in the same prison you're in while serving a sentence and using that moment to pivot toward profound life lessons. Stacey's evolution is underscored as he describes his progression from leading groups in prison to his current role as a peer specialist, aiding others with empathy drawn from shared struggles. The listener is invited to witness the power of second chances and the critical value of therapeutic support for the marginalized. The fabric of our community is woven with stories of hardship and redemption, and Stacey's narrative adds rich texture to this tapestry. We examine the nuanced challenges of parenting from behind bars, the hurdles in maintaining relationships, and the systemic barriers faced upon reentry into society. But through it all,  Stacey's voice offers a guiding light for those navigating similar paths and a message of hope for anyone looking to turn the page and begin a new chapter. Join us in a conversation that is both a tribute to the strength of the human spirit and an affirmation of the continuous possibility of rewriting our stories.  

Hello 365 Amplified subscribers! On March 7, The OuttaDeeBox Podcast will officially become part of the 365 Media Network, with new episodes every other Thursday. Watch Madison365.org/Podcasts for new episodes or search for OuttaDeeBox on your favorite podcast app. In the meantime, here’s a classic episode from the OuttaDeeBox archives!  When streets talk, they tell tales of struggle and success, of alleyways that lead to avenues of opportunity. Tune into a powerful narrative as I, Dee Star, am joined by Kingston Robertson, the visionary behind the Holy Godz clothing line. Kingston's journey from Englewood, Chicago's hardened pathways to the forefront of the fashion world, is remarkable. Bearing the lessons from his grandmother and uncle, he turned a history with gang culture and a transformative stint in prison into a beacon of hope and inspiration. Hear his truths about navigating life's trials to emerge as a mentor and leader, using his story to steer the youth away from the shadows and into the light. As threads weave together to create a tapestry, so do the elements of building a brand stitch into the narrative of success. Discover the intricacies of sculpting a clothing line from the ground up, where every choice of fabric and branding strategy weaves a more significant message. Kingston opens up about the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the commitment to quality that sets Holy God apart, and the personal evolution required to lead a family-run business with heart and foresight. This episode isn't simply a conversation; it's an invitation to witness the transformation of adversity into ambition and to extend our hands to support those who have faced imprisonment as we strive to uplift individuals and entire communities. Join us on this journey of redemption and resilience, where fashion and purpose dress the spirit of change.  

The race for Dane County Executive is heating up. Wes Sparkman has worked for the County for more than 25 years, and currently serves as Director of the Tamara Grigsby Office of Equity and Inclusion. He joins us today to talk about his first foray into elective politics, the campaign for County Executive, and how he hopes to translate his civil service career into an elected role. Plus, Muriel’s Plate is a weekly dinner to celebrate Black History Month, catered by Black chefs at Muriel’s Place on Madison’s east side. Our Dave Dahmer sat down with Will Green, founder of Mentoring Positives, to get all the details. Finally, we speculate on what Grammys our team could win (and stare at each other in stunned silence at one man’s terrible pun). Today’s episode is brought to you by Steinhafels and the OuttaDeeBox Podcast.

Stephanie is on assignment this week but Rob, Dave and Omar hold it down with Dee Star, host and producer of the OuttaDeeBox Podcast, who has some exciting news to share: his award-winning show is the newest addition to the 365 Media podcast network! Today he shares the history of the show and the voices he’s trying to amplify. Then, longtime community leader, activist and theater artist Dana Pellebon announced this week that she’s running for Dane County Executive. She stopped by the studio to talk about her time on the County Board, her vision for Dane County and lots more.

UW-Madison clinical law professor Steve Wright joins the show to bring some expertise to our ongoing discussions of the anti-DEI efforts targeting programs at UW-Madison and other institutions. Then Rob Chappell speaks with Madison School Board president Nichelle Nichols about the search for a new superintendent of schools, the three finalists for the job and how you can get involved. Finally, in honor of Sun Prairie West High School’s recent TedX event, we ask the team: what’s your Ted talk about?   Some helpful links:   https://madison365.com/conservative-group-files-civil-rights-complaint-against-uw-alleging-discrimination-against-white-students-in-fellowship-program/   https://blueprint365.org/featured/conservative-group-sues-over-law-school-diverse-clerkship-program-blsa-adviser-urges-students-to-opt-out-amid-privacy-concerns/   https://madison365.com/madison-metropolitan-school-district-announces-three-superintendent-finalists/ https://madison365.com/tedx-event-tonight-at-sun-prairie-west-high-school-organized-by-sun-prairie-west-student-quinton-maddox/

It’s a 365 team roundtable this week as Stephanie, Rob, Isaac and Omar react to the latest official complaint over a diversity program from the rightwing and oxymoronically named Legal Insurrection Foundation. We also discuss the departures of three high-profile leaders and the upcoming local and national election landscape in Wisconsin.   Links:   https://madison365.com/conservative-group-files-civil-rights-complaint-against-uw-alleging-discrimination-against-white-students-in-fellowship-program/   https://blueprint365.org/featured/conservative-group-sues-over-law-school-diverse-clerkship-program-blsa-adviser-urges-students-to-opt-out-amid-privacy-concerns/   https://madison365.com/vanessa-mcdowell-atlas-says-farewell-to-ywca-madison-aftere-nine-years/   https://blueprint365.org/news/latino-academy-of-workforce-development-exec-director-to-step-down/

Welcome to 365 Amplified! Today, hosts Stephanie Díaz de León and Rob Chappell welcome Jenny Fierro and Rodlyn-mae Banting, who wrote a deep dive on three cases of race fraud in Madison – Jessica Kreug, CV Vitolo-Hadad and Kay LeClaire – their lasting impacts and why this kind of thing is so prevalent in this white liberal city. Next, Rob heads to the Mitby Theater to talk with Nobleman Theater Troupe founder Denzel Taylor, who’s bringing “The Meeting” to Madison College for Black History Month. Finally, we gather the 365 reporting team to talk through what we’re leaving behind in 2023 and what we’re bringing into 2024. Links:   Jenny and Rodlyn-mae’s piece in Tone Madison: https://tonemadison.com/articles/why-is-madison-a-hub-for-race-fraud/   Rob’s original story on Kay LeClaire: https://madison365.com/indigenous-arts-leader-activist-revealed-as-white/   And the follow-up: https://madison365.com/indigenous-community-looks-to-heal-weeks-after-a-pretendian-is-exposed/   The story Isaac mentioned toward the end: https://www.reddit.com/r/wisconsin/comments/194aoc9/cedarburg_mayor_changes_mlk_proclamation_to/   Free tickets for “The Meeting:” https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?ticketing=mitby

Coming THIS FRIDAY! 365 Amplified, with more news, more analysis, and most importantly, more voices!

The fifth and final installment of our Most Influential Black Leaders list drops today. Plus, this podcast is changing, and we’ll tell you how and why.

President Biden visited the Wisconsin Black Chamber of Commerce yesterday, Madison College will host a free performance of The Meeting for Black History Month and today we publish part four of this year's most influential Black leaders   Here are the stories we’re talking about today:   https://blueprint365.org/news/president-biden-visits-wisconsin-black-chamber-of-commerce-in-milwaukee/   https://madison365.com/madison-college-to-spotlight-award-winning-play-the-meeting-with-malcolm-x-and-dr-martin-luther-king-jr/   https://madison365.com/wisconsins-51-most-influential-black-leaders-for-2023-part-4/