A recently engaged Wisconsin woman will spend the next six years in prison after allegedly admitting to kissing an 11-year-old boy in her classroom — and later sending him 35,000 explicit text messages.
Madison Bergmann, 26, was working as a fifth grade teacher at River Crest Elementary School in Hudson, Wisconsin, until the victim’s father discovered the deluge of texts.
The boy’s dad told the court during Bergmann’s sentencing on Friday, December 19, that he found the messages “disturbing.”
The messages were sent over just three months, meaning she sent an average of over 2,000 messages to the victim every day. In the texts, Bergmann allegedly professed her affections for the boy and expressed her eagerness at touching him and “making out” with him again.
Her former coworker at the school, Abigail Faust, is also facing charges for inappropriate relationships with children, including a child whom she nannied in Washington County.
Bergmann pleaded guilty to one count of child enticement and two counts of sexual misconduct by school staff back in September.
After the father brought the text messages to the police, officers searched her classroom and found a folder with the victim’s name on it containing handwritten love letters that indicated they had kissed.
Bergmann was supposed to get married in 2024. It is unclear when she got engaged.
She started to cry as soon as she entered the courtroom for her sentencing. The state had been seeking a 12-year sentence for the disgraced teacher.
Bergmann’s lawyers had been pushing for a one-year sentence.
“I want to make it absolutely clear that I take full accountability for every boundary that was crossed,” she said through tears. “I hope that your family has been able to begin to heal and find some peace in your lives again. I know the journey will be long for your family.”
“To his own credit, [my son] is like ‘I have to live with this forever. Whatever punishment she receives should be forever,’” the victim’s father said, according to KARE11. “When I review the texts too, it’s very deliberate — talking about touching his leg, talking to my 11-year-old son about her period, talking about his erections … to me it’s very disturbing stuff.”
Bergmann pleaded guilty as part of a plea deal from prosecutors that saw a number of charges against her dropped, including first-degree sexual assault of a child, using a computer to facilitate a child sex crime, exposing a child to harmful descriptions, and additional counts of sexual misconduct by school staff and child enticement.
When she is released from prison in six years, Bergmann will need to register as a convicted sex offender. She will also be placed on six years of extended supervision and is barred from having contact with minors without approval. The court has also placed restrictions on her internet use, according to KARE11.
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Cape Town welcomes 2026 on a high note – January is peak summer, and the city comes alive with an unbeatable mix of concerts, festivals, sport, culture and outdoor experiences. From iconic events like the Cape Town Minstrels Street Parade and the King’s Plate to international music tours, open-air theatre and cricket at Newlands.
Cats, the Musical
2-11 January 2026 Artscape Theatre, Cape Town
Pieter Toerien and GWB Entertainment in association with Cape Town Opera by arrangement with The Really Useful Group presents CATS. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s world-famous musical Cats brings iconic songs, choreography and theatrical magic to the Artscape stage. Tickets from R180 on Webtickets.
WAV Festival by AfroNation
2 January 2026 Green Point Track, Cape Town
A festival R&B lovers cannot miss! Amapiano’s Kelvin Momo brings his deep, emotional sound to the festival, while Shekinah’s golden voice is set to light up the stage. The lineup also includes Mariah the Scientist, Wale, Langa Mavuso, and Kujenga. Cape Town, get ready for a high-energy stadium showcase featuring the best in R&B. Find ticket information here.
Milk & Cookies Festival
3 January 2026 Kenilworth Racecourse, Cape Town
This multi-genre festival celebrates music, food, and community. From amapiano to R&B, house to hip-hop, Milk and Cookies blends global sounds with local culture for one unforgettable celebration. Vibrant stages, curated food vendors, immersive art installations, and the kind of energy that turns a crowd into a community – it’s a gathering where culture, connection, and creativity meet. For tickets go to Howler’s website and for more information visit the official page here.
Step into the New Year with Blanche; an All-white outdoor celebration, curated by AfroFuture and PVO. This signature experience blends live music, an unmatched atmosphere, and the most vibrant crowd. Presented by Martell, set against Cape Town’s stunning backdrop. Click here for ticket information.
Freshlyground Reunion Concert
4, 11, 18 January 2026 Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Freshlyground reunites for a special open-air concert at Kirstenbosch, delivering feel-good hits in one of Cape Town’s most popular outdoor venues. Find more information and ticket information.
Cape Town Minstrels Street Parade
5 January 2026 Somerset Road & Fan Walk, Green Point
The iconic Cape Town Minstrel Carnival returns to the Mother City on 5 January 2026. The annual event fills the streets with colour, music and tradition, continuing into DHL Stadium for the Kaapse Klopse Choral Competition. Tap here for the latest event information.
St Tropez presents: Uncle Waffles – The ultimate day time escape
5 January 2026 Cabo Beach Club, Cape Town
Turn on the glitz and glamour at this epic Cabo Beach experience. Headlined by global sensation Uncle Waffles, expect nothing less than an unforgettable day of pulsating beats, high-energy performances, and pure sophistication. The event promises world-class local DJs spinning infectious sounds that keep the energy flowing from noon until sunset. Get your tickets now.
MI Cape Town vs Joburg Super Kings
6 January 2026 Newlands Cricket Grounds
Catch SA20 cricket action as MI Cape Town face the Joburg Super Kings at the historic Newlands Cricket Ground. For ticket info, email info@ticketpro.co.za or visit the website here.
Cape Town Jazzathon
9-11 January 2026 Amphitheatre, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Celebrating its 29th anniversary this year, the Cape Town Jazzathon is South Africa’s longest-running music festival. Often referred to as “The People’s Festival,” the event will feature performances daily, from 12.30pm to 8pm. Enjoy a rich variety of styles including Afro Jazz, Cape Jazz, Hip Hop, R&B, Reggae, Neo Soul, and Straight Ahead packed into three days of non-stop entertainment… and its free!!! Learn more.
L’Ormarins King’s Plate
10 January 2026 Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse
The Running of the 165th King’s Plate – the L’Ormarins King’s Plate is one of South Africa’s most prestigious horse racing events, combining elite racing, high fashion and a vibrant atmosphere. The King’s Plate is a totally blue and white affair where guests can enjoy some of the country’s best racing, wine, food, antique car displays and renowned after party in the peak of Cape Town’s summer. Tickets start from R600. For more information visit here.
Maynardville Open-Air Festival
From 13 January 2026 Maynardville Park, Wynberg
Cape Town’s premier open-air theatre experience returns, featuring live performances in a magical forest setting. Opening on 13 January, the Shades of Blue Chamber Concert will feature music from composers influenced by the rhythms and harmonies of jazz. Next up is Jazz in the Park (14 to 15 Jan), a new two-day celebration featuring local jazz legends from Cape Town’s rich jazz tradition. From 16 to 17 January, another crowd-favourite Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra returns with a stirring classical programme. See the full festival programme.
Calum Scott – The Avenoir Tour
14 January 2026 Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
International singer-songwriter Calum Scott performs live at Kirstenbosch as part of his global Avenoir Tour. Gates open at 6pm. Concert starts 7pm. For more information, go to Big Concert’s website.
Sheer City Festival
17-18 January 2026 Harrington Street Precinct
Sheer City is launching its inaugural two-day inner-city festival bringing together Cape Town’s most influential underground nightlife crews with international acts like Horse Meat Disco, Tama Sumo & Lakuti, Make A Dance, Freudenthal, and more. It’s a multi-venue, walkable block party across Harrington Street and the City Bowl fringe, a celebration of Cape Town’s creative pulse, queer culture, music, fashion, performance, and community. Expect six venues, over twenty artists, a full weekend immersion in the city’s next cultural moment.
Sheer Drop at Texas – 2pm to 10pm Sheer Delight at The Electric – 5pm to 2am Sheer Disco at Harringtons – 6pm to 4am Sheer D.O.G at Zer021 Social – 8pm to 4am Sheer Assembly at District – 8pm to 4am Sheer Dive at Surfa Rosa – 9pm to 4am
Long, lazy afternoons, cool beats and Cape Town’s most iconic views. Summer at Durbanville Hills is super chilled, and with it, the popular cellar’s much-loved Sundaze Summer Series. DJ Stefanos will be spinning tracks from 2pm to 6pm while you enjoy crisp wines, cocktails, craft beer, wine slushies, and a mouth-watering selection of eats from the Olive Grove Bistro. Set against panoramic vistas of Table Bay and Table Mountain, Sundaze is the perfect way to vibe with friends and family. Tickets cost R100pp and available via Webtickets.
Shxtsngigs: Daddy’s Home – South Africa Tour
27 January 2026 Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
The viral podcast duo James and Fuhad bring their Daddy’s Home live show to Cape Town, blending comedy, culture and crowd interaction. Whether you’re a die-hard Cult Baby or just discovering the podcast that’s racked up millions of streams and laughs worldwide, this live experience is your chance to see the boys like never before – live, loud, and uncut. Tickets from R440 via Ticketmaster.
DHL Stormers vs Vodacom Blue Bulls
27 January 2026 DHL Stadium, Cape Town
Get ready for a major rugby showdown as the DHL Stormers face the Vodacom Blue Bulls in one of the season’s most anticipated fixtures. Cape Town is set to bring the gees – get your tickets today on the Stormer’s website.
World Sports Betting Cape Town Met
31 January 2026 Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse
Prepare for the grand return of the World Sports Betting Cape Town Met, where the thrill of elite horse racing converges with a multisensory celebration unlike any other. The 2026 theme Symphony of Style combines fashion, music, and immersive moments. Book your tickets via Computicket.
Ladies love getting their hair done while on holiday, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places in the city to get it all done – from braids and weaves to balyage and blow outs.
Here are a few of our favourites places:
For Braids, Wigs, and Extensions
Afro Corner
This City Centre hair salon is your one-stop shop for braids, hair colouring, natural hair styling, and extensions. Professional stylists treat your hair with the care it deserves, ensuring you leave looking and feeling amazing!
ASANA is a high-end dreadlocks and natural hair salon founded in 2019 by friends Gugu Nonjinge and Nomahlubi Hewu. But it’s more than just a place for hair; it’s a community and a safe space where you can relax. Treatments include hot oil and scalp treatments for dreadlocks, deep cleans, and protein treatments for natural hair.
Looking for a wig supplier and expert installations? Ester Hair Salon offers that and more. It’s the spot for ladies to treat themselves, upgrade their looks, and leave feeling fabulous. Hair extensions and quality products complete your perfect style.
Location: No 32 St Georges Mall, Cape Town City Centre Website:EsterHairSalonSA
Afrosundae
Afro Sundae is all about natural hair done right. This Table View salon specialises in coils, curls, and kinks, giving every strand the love it deserves. Kids are welcome too, with gentle, fun treatments that make hair time a breeze.
With locations in Kloof Street and Sea Point, Excentric Hair Salon is all about pushing the boundaries. Living by the motto ‘Dare to be different,’ the team specialises in everything from precision cutting and advanced colour techniques to results-driven treatments. They’re constantly exploring the latest trends, like balayage, contouring, geode, rainbow, and unicorn hair.
With branches across Cape Town, Sorbet’s hairbars handle it all: cuts, colour, treatments, styling, extensions, and straightening. And with an in-salon nail, lash, and brow menu, you can get the full pampering experience and walk out with that unbeatable, ‘just-been-treated’ feeling. Location: Various locations in the city. Details here. Website:www.sorbet.co.za
Blue Lemon Hair & Beauty
“Good Hair Days, Every Day!” That’s the motto at Blue Lemon Hair & Beauty in Green Point. Step in and treat yourself to a full range of hair and beauty services, from blow dries and tints (parting, hairline, and roots) to highlights, Brazilian treatments, perms, and even gents’ cuts and colour.
Location: Shop 3, Portside, 41 Main Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa Website:www.bluelemonhair.com
Snippets Hair Salon
Balayage specialists in Claremont, Snippets Hair Salon turn every appointment into an experience. They’re warm, welcoming, and happy to accommodate German-speaking travellers. While you’re there, kick back with free Wi-Fi, and if hunger strikes, they’ll happily order from the sushi bar or Jack’s Bagel next door.
Location: 22 Dreyer St, Claremont, Cape Town, 7708, South Africa Website:snippetshairsalon.co.za
Marios Hair Atelier
One of Cape Town’s top hair salons, Marios Atzemoglou and his team have built a true hair sanctuary. Women, men, and kids are all welcome. The menu includes quick blow dry, balayage-Ombre, Bio-Ionic Japanese straightening, and Brazilian Keratin treatments.
Location: 2nd Exhibition building, 81 Main Rd, Green Point, Cape Town Website:marioshairatelier.com
Head Spas
Plush Head Spa
Inspired by viral trends and growing demand, Plush combines traditional head spa techniques with modern treatments and premium products. The treatment aims to bring deep relaxation, enhance scalp health, and promote overall rejuvenation.
Location: Unit A5, Office Park, Heron Crescent, Century Dr, Century City Website:www.plushheadspa.co.za
Headspace SA
Blending ancient Chinese techniques with modern wellness, this head spa in Claremont promotes deep relaxation and scalp rejuvenation. Guests can choose between a Mini Experience (perfect for those short on time) or the Complete Ritual for a full pampering session. The treatment includes two luxurious washes: one with a clarifying shampoo to cleanse, followed by a nourishing shampoo and hydrating hair mask. This is paired with a head massage, hydro steam therapy, and other calming elements.
The Claremont Head Spa is by appointment only, and it’s a treat for the whole family! Their Asian-inspired head and scalp treatments cater to women, men, teens, and kids. Whether you’re popping in for a simple blow dry, a dandruff detox scrub, or a traditional hair-growth scalp oil, they’ve got you covered. Guys swear by the Alpha Ritual.
Book ahead! Cape Town is in peak season (November to February) and can get busy. Reputable salons, especially those specialising in intricate work like braiding or complex colour, get booked up weeks in advance. Secure your spot before you arrive to avoid disappointment!
