🌱 Metro Mask Mandate Lifted + New Police Car For Autism Awareness

Happy Wednesday, people of Madison! Let's get you all caught up to start today off on an informed note.

First, today's weather:

Cloudy, chilly; p.m. rain. High: 46 Low: 41.

Here are the top 3 stories in Madison today:

1. The City of Madison has announced that masks will no longer be mandatory when traveling using the city’s Metro buses, after a federal court ruling on Monday. The Transportation Security Administration also said it would no longer be enforcing the “Security Directives and Emergency Amendment,” which is a rule that required patrons to wear masks on public transportation and public transportation hubs such as airports. (Channel3000.com - WISC-TV3)
2. Madison police are investigating two bike thefts on back-to-back days at the same east side apartment building. A 14-year-old from the 1800 block of East Washington Avenue reported the theft this Monday, saying he locked his bike up in the building storage area Saturday afternoon and when he came back, it was gone. Security footage caught a man hopping the fence and using bolt cutters to break the lock so he could steal the bike. Stephanie Fryer, a public information officer with the Madison Police Department, also reported that the same man returned the following day and stole another bike. (WKOW)
3. The Madison Police Department revealed a new car on Tuesday, in honor of Autism Awareness Month. Puzzle-piece decals and the words "Autism Awareness" are displayed along both driver and passenger sides. The mission of this project is to be a symbol of support for those with autism and a reminder that people can call the police for help in times of need.(Channel3000.com - WISC-TV3)

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Today in Madison:

• COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic at the South Madison Branch Library (12:30 PM)
• Virtual Planetarium Show at the MMSD Planetarium (6:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• Madison area brewery, Hop Haus Brewing Company, is releasing a special beer in honor of Earth Day this week. In collaboration with Honeybee Cannabis Company “Bee Better Have My Honey”, a honey blond ale, will be available to celebrate the special day. (WMTV – NBC15)
• The Madison Reading Project's “Read(y) to Wear” contest will take the stage on May 12. Featuring 10 teams of local students, artists, and others showcasing their creations on the runway, this event is a must for anyone with a passion for fashion. (97 Seven Country WGLR)
• As the weather gets warmer, take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and visit Lake Kegonsa State Park! With campsites, rich nature, and lots of beautiful views, everyone regardless of age, is sure to have a blast. (Instagram)

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You're officially in the loop for today! I'll see you around.

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.