Ups and downs
Too bad the story “Highs and Lows” (7/21/2016) did not highlight the UW’s Van Hise Hall. The top floor has superb views east and west of the isthmus and beyond. The building is the second tallest in the city, behind the State Capitol. A trip to the top is a treat for those visiting Madison, and a must for those living here.
Michael Pierick (via email)
I enjoyed this article and especially Michana Buchman’s photos of the ski jumps. Blackhawk Ski Club is a local treasure. Coincidentally, this Saturday, July 30, it will be open to the public 5-8 p.m. for a free bluegrass concert, so here’s a perfect opportunity for community members to see the jumps up close. It’s a family event open to everyone. Three food carts will offer their wares for sale while the Soggy Prairie Boys play. The club invites visitors to pack a lawn chair and a favorite beverage and make their way to the East Chalet at 10118 Blackhawk Rd. in Middleton to share the scenic and structural beauty of the jumps. The next open event will be the Blackhawk Bash Oct. 2.
Sue Ulrey (via comments)
Mission impossible?
To what extent is Ruth Conniff — and other backers of the state Democratic Party — upset with the lack of campaigning finesse among Democrat office seekers (“What Hope Is There for Wisconsin Dems?” 7/14/2016)?
Tom Barrett is doubtless a worthy mayor. But how could he have imagined that regularly referring to Scott Walker as “a rock star” was a smart debating tactic? And what can one say about Mary Burke’s walking off stage after a televised debate and allowing Walker to hobnob all by himself with the panel of questioners? Walker is an average campaigner at best, but he can seem professional simply by looking steadily into the camera while an opponent (Burke again) must refer to notes even to express simple notions.
The Democrats need a gubernatorial candidate who knows how to campaign.
Jim O’Brien, Middleton (via email)
Clarification
In last week’s cover story, the piece on Blackhawk ski jumps should have noted that the area is only open to members of the Blackhawk Ski Club, except during competitions and other special events.
