February 2022

I am a firm believer that Black history is everyone’s history and should be taught year-round as part of regular school curriculum. But because of the racism and oppression of Black people that has been persistent and prevalent in our country since its founding, that has not happened. Instead, we take the month of February to highlight Black leaders and achievements. I hope someday this will change, but at this time we are celebrating Black History Month. 

I have compiled a list of some of the Black historical figures in the US, trying to feature those that are lesser known than the few we have learned about in school. I encourage you to research these innovators, leaders and inventors as well as others Black Americans who have greatly contributed to our society. 

Bessie Coleman: Aviation pioneer

Phillis Wheatly: Poet

Althea Gibson: Tennis star

Madam CJ Walker: First Black millionaire, inventor of beauty products

TOWN OF MIDDLETON–The Middleton Town Board Monday authorized American Transmission Co. (ATC) to use its roads to build a power line from north of Dubuque to a substation in the town.

ATC would use Timber Lane plus Airport, Old Sauk, Twin Valley and Rocky Dell Roads largely as return routes for semi-trucks hauling in construction material to be stockpiled on leased land in the Town of Cross Plains.

The Road Repair Reimbursement Agreement is similar to one the board rejected two weeks ago as it didn’t mention reimbursement for damage to guardrails on what Town Chair Cynthia Richson called “narrow, windy Rocky Dell Road.” 

Jon Callaway, of ATC, said hauling would occur during a two-week period this spring after load limits are lifted from roads, as well as a 45-day period near the end of the year.

TOWN OF MIDDLETON–At approximately 4:53 a.m. on Feb. 27, Dane County deputies were dispatched to the Quality Inn located at 6900 Seybold Rd. in the Town of Middleton for a report of an armed robbery. 

An unidentified sole suspect entered the hotel and threatened the clerk with a knife. The suspect is described as a Black male, approximately six feet tall, slim build, approximately 160 pounds, wearing a white sweatshirt with black jeans and no shoes. The suspect fled the hotel on foot with an undisclosed amount of money.

If any members of public may have information related to this incident, they are asked to call the Dane County tip line at 608-284-6900. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

WAUKESHA — As they exited Waukesha South High School last Saturday, Middleton’s boys swimming team basked in the glory of a terrific afternoon.

The Cardinals notched first place finishes in two relays, had several outstanding performances in individual events and finished fourth at the WIAA Division 1 state meet. Brookfield Central/East won the team championship with 208 points, while Arrowhead (188), Madison West (182), Middleton (175) and Sun Prairie (173) rounded out the top five.

The Cardinals then paused for a second and realized next year could be even better. With the majority of their point scorers expected back and a gifted freshman class on the way, things could be even better for Middleton in 2023.

“We won the state championship my freshman year and I'd love to see us win it again my senior year,” Middleton junior standout Nick Chirafisi said. “It can happen. Plan on us bringing the heat.”