🌱 6-Year-Old Left Stranded In Car + City Gas Prices Skyrocket

Happy Tuesday, neighbors! Let's get you all caught up to start today off on an informed note.

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First, today's weather:

Some sun, then clouds. High: 39 Low: 32.

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Here are the top 3 stories in Madison today:

1. A woman has been arrested for leaving her 6-year-old daughter alone in a running car outside of a Madison apartment complex. Officers at the scene determined that the girl had been alone for at least 45 minutes before a neighbor noticed her and notified the police. According to police, a BB gun and prescription drugs were also discovered in the vehicle and within reach of the girl. (WMTV - NBC15)
2. Gas prices across Madison have jumped ten cents in the last week, exceeding the national average. The average price for gas in the capital was $3.13, with some stations charging as much as $3.39 per gallon. According to Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy, Madison residents should prepare for the cost of gas to continue to rise to record levels this summer. (WMTV - NBC15)
3. Representatives from Dane County have been selected to participate in a bootcamp about local fine and fee reform later this month. County Board Chair Analiese Eicher and Clerk of Courts Carlo Esqueda are among the representatives who will be attending the Cities and Counties for Fine and Fee Justice Bootcamp. Esqueda says the program will play a critical role in "ensuring that people experience accountability" through the courts. (Press Release Desk)

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Today in Madison:

• Take-Home Tuesday At Fitchburg Public Library (9:00 AM)
• Madison Writing Assistance At Goodman South Madison Library (10:30 AM)
• Cooking With Chef Lily At Lakeview Branch Library (4:30 PM)

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From my notebook:

• It's Winter Carnival week at the University of Wisconsin-Madison! Bundle up and head down to The Wisconsin Union for your favorite seasonal events. (Facebook)
• Concert tickets are even sweeter than chocolates! Pick out a free Valentine when you purchase tickets at The Sylvee box office this week. (Facebook)
• Voting is now open at Fetch Wisconsin Rescue for the Super Bowl Talent Contest videos! Each vote is $1 and directly benefits Fetch. Voting is open through Sunday, Feb. 13. (Facebook)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Tuesday! I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow morning with another update.

— 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.