Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Book Review: Paul Baker: "Backchannel"---the elephant in the room
Click on the post for an interesting book review.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
OnLine Payment for Evansville Water and Light?
Click on the post for the agenda for Wednesday's meeting.
Channel3000: Rail Route from Minn-Chicago---The Red Wing Dream
As a youngster, every fall during the change of colors, Dad packed us in the car for a trip to Red Wing, Mn and the Red Wing Pottery.
That's been a few years ago---the train station is a Burger King now. But the views are just as breathtaking...and it still would be a dream retirement to live on the river, hop the train to Mpls or St. Paul or wherever.
The restoration of train service might just happen. Click on the post for the article from Channel3000.
That's been a few years ago---the train station is a Burger King now. But the views are just as breathtaking...and it still would be a dream retirement to live on the river, hop the train to Mpls or St. Paul or wherever.
The restoration of train service might just happen. Click on the post for the article from Channel3000.
Brit Bankers Oppose Bonus Tax--BBC--Should US follow similar TAX?
The Brit bankers note that it might be hard to define a "banker". Reminds me of when it was hard to define what "is" is back in the Clinton days.
Notable bankers have threatened subtly to leave London---and thus threaten the world class status of the city. Click on the post for the story in the BBC.
Notable bankers have threatened subtly to leave London---and thus threaten the world class status of the city. Click on the post for the story in the BBC.
Monte Python: Memories of the Inquisition
Somehow the real world is not so funny. Click on the post for the Monte Python skit.
Normal, Mn. Council ignores Audit Warning for 75th Straight Year"--FICTION: Tales From Normal, Mn.
Click on the post for the latest.
When Writers Wore Tweed----
Duluth Trading has a new bit on Twitter that goes: "Real Men Don't Twitter--they wear the writers tweed----". Click on the post for the tweet.
However--given the current state of compensation for writers, it is beyond one's memory to recall when a writer bought a Tweed new...maybe a Goodwill tweed, but not new.
With newspapers, Tv, Radio, etc all in financial trouble, Paid content is on the way---and soon. Murdock is right. You just cannot demand high quality and then pay zero.
However--given the current state of compensation for writers, it is beyond one's memory to recall when a writer bought a Tweed new...maybe a Goodwill tweed, but not new.
With newspapers, Tv, Radio, etc all in financial trouble, Paid content is on the way---and soon. Murdock is right. You just cannot demand high quality and then pay zero.
Accounting Corner: Law Corner: Simple Math Corner: "When Things Do Not Add Up"--OpEd
Recently while watching a football game, I noticed that the audio track from a certain popular channel just did not match the video---boy did that ruin the game for me. Nothing like being a little delayed to rattle the enjoyment. When things just do not match up...there is a real sense of things being wrong somehow....things need to mesh to make sense in our lives.
Recently, in the political arena, something similar has occured.
There was a theft from a local school district that was discovered in July. Revealed to the public in November. Always need a little delay to model Edward Kennedy and Tiger Woods I presume. The theft was not revealed to local law enforcement it seems, no need to follow proper procedure, but sent directly to the DA, where it seems that the person confessed to $100,000 of theft, while in the alternative pleading "not guilty." We never really plead these days, but plead in the multiple alternative. Right at that point of the story, I hear the sound track going off the road.
But relax...it gets better. The person involved supposedly had a gambling addiction and a $200,000 gambling debt---but not one person, even the DA it seems, worried in the least of where the other $100,000 was. The school that had been stolen from reviewed two years of accounting and then declined to go further in history. They presumably felt so bad about the incident that they did not want to really know the facts...and well,....maybe the DA feels so bad that he does not want to know either.
And that is where we are today---in a place where the FACTS and the LAW do not matter....just the POLITICS and how we FEEL seems to be important.
As I see it there are two phases---determination of facts---as in the old Dragnet movie, the "facts and nothing but the facts" and then in a separate judicial section, the clemency or sentencing. The facts come before the sentencing...at least that is the way the texts teach it.
To do otherwise is to run the car off the tracks, or run the TV with the audio track off kilter---we have run amuck. That is how I see it.
Recently, in the political arena, something similar has occured.
There was a theft from a local school district that was discovered in July. Revealed to the public in November. Always need a little delay to model Edward Kennedy and Tiger Woods I presume. The theft was not revealed to local law enforcement it seems, no need to follow proper procedure, but sent directly to the DA, where it seems that the person confessed to $100,000 of theft, while in the alternative pleading "not guilty." We never really plead these days, but plead in the multiple alternative. Right at that point of the story, I hear the sound track going off the road.
But relax...it gets better. The person involved supposedly had a gambling addiction and a $200,000 gambling debt---but not one person, even the DA it seems, worried in the least of where the other $100,000 was. The school that had been stolen from reviewed two years of accounting and then declined to go further in history. They presumably felt so bad about the incident that they did not want to really know the facts...and well,....maybe the DA feels so bad that he does not want to know either.
And that is where we are today---in a place where the FACTS and the LAW do not matter....just the POLITICS and how we FEEL seems to be important.
As I see it there are two phases---determination of facts---as in the old Dragnet movie, the "facts and nothing but the facts" and then in a separate judicial section, the clemency or sentencing. The facts come before the sentencing...at least that is the way the texts teach it.
To do otherwise is to run the car off the tracks, or run the TV with the audio track off kilter---we have run amuck. That is how I see it.
"Stranded in the Age of Texting"---Classic Soucheray: Pioneer Press
Click on the post for the latest.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Mailbag: Bear Trader: Energy: Coal Gassification clarified
Observer wrote to Bear Trader:
Recently I came upon an article about the gassification of oil, and it appears there is a new plant that can do this. I wonder about how this would stack up in your analysis of energy efficiency. Warren Buffett is betting big bucks on the Great Northern Railway, and there has been strong movement or support in coal stocks or MLP in coal and natural resources---I wonder if coal is moving to the forefront, as corn, wind, and sun appear not to have the numbers come out for a decent return. What is your analysis??
Bear Trader Wrote:
Coal gasification, natural gas, oil, coal, coal derived liquids, nuclear, and all of the green "renewable" delusions have to be individually analyzed because over time they are all fungible.
"Fungible?" you ask. Indeed. The chemistry of "synthetic" production of hydrocarbons has been well understood for a hundred years. No real improvement can be expected over the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis used by the Third Reich seventy years ago and by Sasol today (Sasol makes gas and oil from coal and at other locations makes liquid hydrocarbons from natural gas. The process used is the same, differing only in details related to feedstocks.) So, you can make gas, oil, and coal interchangeably from gas, oil, or coal.
Current state of natural gas:
Gas well output in relatively impermeable geologic strata (the gas has to flow through the pores in the rock to get to the well bottom; there is a lot of gas in rock that doesn't flow enough gas to pay for the drilling) has been improved by forcing extreme pressure oil down the well (20 to 100 Tons per square inch). The rock breaks along sedimentary layers, oil creeps along these cracks, forcing them further open. This is an expensive process.
Lots of natural gas drillers put this brand new, just available tech into effect in 2008 as natural gas rose to $13.50. This resulted in massive increase in natural gas supply as these new wells came on line at nearly all the same time. The well drillers had to sell the gas for whatever they could get to keep the banks from taking everything, and now the natural gas price is about $5.75. The thing to remember here is that this deep rock hydraulic fracturing technology cannot break even with $5.75 gas; more like $10.00. One must realize that these wells won't flow for very long without a lot more hydraulic fracturing being done on them, and that won't last all that long either, since these wells simply have less natural gas per unit of ground area than we are used to. New wells will have to be drilled more often and over a larger area to maintain a constant output. Expensive.
So, I think Wall Street is wrong, and will be surprised by a sooner than expected rise in natural gas prices. Perhaps the equilibrium price is double the present price. Perhaps the peak will be three times. This assumes a continuation of the present U-6 unemployment rate of 18%. If times are better demand will be higher and so will peak prices.
Current situation of oil:
The most important factor is East Asia and other emerging markets. They have been exporting increasingly heavily in recent years, have more dollars, and more dollars to spend as a result, so being "more wealthy" in dollars means they find oil less expensive over time compared to us here in the USA. As a result their increase in oil consumption as a percentage over time is something like two or three times the USA - and I am including Uganda, Somalia, et al., in my calculations. Remember that China buys more cars every year than does the USA, and that China and India combined buy more than the G-7. Oil consumption is rising inevitably. Reserves coming on line are increasingly difficult to produce, under miles of ocean and rock, in the Arctic, and in the most extravagantly politically unstable places (notice how the Chinese deal with this in the Sudan).
The USA will have less and less influence over oil prices as both pricing and political power wane. The next upswing in oil prices will simply have to be lived with. Currently oil is about $80, Coby-Lamson thinks there will be a downswing followed by $100 / barrel next year. Could easily be. That's about $3.40 / gallon.
Nuclear: Cannot be increased rapidly. Lots of political opposition, rather mindless, Yahoo sort. (Swift, of course.)
Renewables: When output, initial cost, and maintenance cost are figured in, including grid improvements, (the necessary "smart grid" will become obsolete about every five - seven years due to technological change) simply cost more in fossil and nuclear energy (and human) than they replace. The only exception is properly done satellite solar power (which both Japan and China are working on seriously. Nero fiddles while Rome burns.)
Getting into Warren Buffet's head:
The purchase of the Burlington Northern - Sante Fe Railroad is a much bigger deal than just controlling northern tier coal. It means Buffet combined with the Union Pacific, controls trans-continental shipping. Chew on that one for a while. Not likely you will see price wars from those two.
The Word on the Street is that Buffet is going to take Goldman-Sachs private in 2010. See
http://blogs.barrons.com/stockstowatchtoday/2009/12/21/doug-kass-2010-predictions-goldman-goes-private-buffett-steps-down-and-tigers-back/
(Kass sees Israel making attack on Iranian nuclear weapon project sites by summer, causing heavy shock to USA economy; in this case I personally expect Iran to try to block Straits of Hormuz, that the US Navy gets involved with a large chance of loss of major US Navy ships. Certainly Ahmadinejad is figuring to try, and has had decades to put multiple plans in place. Real war. Maybe a few nuked cities here in the USA, certainly threats thereof.)
Remember that Enron and Goldman are/were big fans of "cap and trade", figuring to make hundreds and hundreds of billions profit a year trading CO2 rights. Now Goldman should emerge the game-controlling player in cap-and-trade. Buffet figures to make money on coal and coal cap-and-trade financial operations at the same time. After all, the use of coal is going to increase over time, and sizably, unless the politicians are willing to go to rotating blackouts. Electricity, because of cap-and-trade more than any other factor, will increase in price two to four times (in constant dollars) in the next five to ten years. Buffet will make an absolute fortune, just immense, maybe the first trillionaire if he lives so long.
Recently I came upon an article about the gassification of oil, and it appears there is a new plant that can do this. I wonder about how this would stack up in your analysis of energy efficiency. Warren Buffett is betting big bucks on the Great Northern Railway, and there has been strong movement or support in coal stocks or MLP in coal and natural resources---I wonder if coal is moving to the forefront, as corn, wind, and sun appear not to have the numbers come out for a decent return. What is your analysis??
Bear Trader Wrote:
Coal gasification, natural gas, oil, coal, coal derived liquids, nuclear, and all of the green "renewable" delusions have to be individually analyzed because over time they are all fungible.
"Fungible?" you ask. Indeed. The chemistry of "synthetic" production of hydrocarbons has been well understood for a hundred years. No real improvement can be expected over the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis used by the Third Reich seventy years ago and by Sasol today (Sasol makes gas and oil from coal and at other locations makes liquid hydrocarbons from natural gas. The process used is the same, differing only in details related to feedstocks.) So, you can make gas, oil, and coal interchangeably from gas, oil, or coal.
Current state of natural gas:
Gas well output in relatively impermeable geologic strata (the gas has to flow through the pores in the rock to get to the well bottom; there is a lot of gas in rock that doesn't flow enough gas to pay for the drilling) has been improved by forcing extreme pressure oil down the well (20 to 100 Tons per square inch). The rock breaks along sedimentary layers, oil creeps along these cracks, forcing them further open. This is an expensive process.
Lots of natural gas drillers put this brand new, just available tech into effect in 2008 as natural gas rose to $13.50. This resulted in massive increase in natural gas supply as these new wells came on line at nearly all the same time. The well drillers had to sell the gas for whatever they could get to keep the banks from taking everything, and now the natural gas price is about $5.75. The thing to remember here is that this deep rock hydraulic fracturing technology cannot break even with $5.75 gas; more like $10.00. One must realize that these wells won't flow for very long without a lot more hydraulic fracturing being done on them, and that won't last all that long either, since these wells simply have less natural gas per unit of ground area than we are used to. New wells will have to be drilled more often and over a larger area to maintain a constant output. Expensive.
So, I think Wall Street is wrong, and will be surprised by a sooner than expected rise in natural gas prices. Perhaps the equilibrium price is double the present price. Perhaps the peak will be three times. This assumes a continuation of the present U-6 unemployment rate of 18%. If times are better demand will be higher and so will peak prices.
Current situation of oil:
The most important factor is East Asia and other emerging markets. They have been exporting increasingly heavily in recent years, have more dollars, and more dollars to spend as a result, so being "more wealthy" in dollars means they find oil less expensive over time compared to us here in the USA. As a result their increase in oil consumption as a percentage over time is something like two or three times the USA - and I am including Uganda, Somalia, et al., in my calculations. Remember that China buys more cars every year than does the USA, and that China and India combined buy more than the G-7. Oil consumption is rising inevitably. Reserves coming on line are increasingly difficult to produce, under miles of ocean and rock, in the Arctic, and in the most extravagantly politically unstable places (notice how the Chinese deal with this in the Sudan).
The USA will have less and less influence over oil prices as both pricing and political power wane. The next upswing in oil prices will simply have to be lived with. Currently oil is about $80, Coby-Lamson thinks there will be a downswing followed by $100 / barrel next year. Could easily be. That's about $3.40 / gallon.
Nuclear: Cannot be increased rapidly. Lots of political opposition, rather mindless, Yahoo sort. (Swift, of course.)
Renewables: When output, initial cost, and maintenance cost are figured in, including grid improvements, (the necessary "smart grid" will become obsolete about every five - seven years due to technological change) simply cost more in fossil and nuclear energy (and human) than they replace. The only exception is properly done satellite solar power (which both Japan and China are working on seriously. Nero fiddles while Rome burns.)
Getting into Warren Buffet's head:
The purchase of the Burlington Northern - Sante Fe Railroad is a much bigger deal than just controlling northern tier coal. It means Buffet combined with the Union Pacific, controls trans-continental shipping. Chew on that one for a while. Not likely you will see price wars from those two.
The Word on the Street is that Buffet is going to take Goldman-Sachs private in 2010. See
http://blogs.barrons.com/stockstowatchtoday/2009/12/21/doug-kass-2010-predictions-goldman-goes-private-buffett-steps-down-and-tigers-back/
(Kass sees Israel making attack on Iranian nuclear weapon project sites by summer, causing heavy shock to USA economy; in this case I personally expect Iran to try to block Straits of Hormuz, that the US Navy gets involved with a large chance of loss of major US Navy ships. Certainly Ahmadinejad is figuring to try, and has had decades to put multiple plans in place. Real war. Maybe a few nuked cities here in the USA, certainly threats thereof.)
Remember that Enron and Goldman are/were big fans of "cap and trade", figuring to make hundreds and hundreds of billions profit a year trading CO2 rights. Now Goldman should emerge the game-controlling player in cap-and-trade. Buffet figures to make money on coal and coal cap-and-trade financial operations at the same time. After all, the use of coal is going to increase over time, and sizably, unless the politicians are willing to go to rotating blackouts. Electricity, because of cap-and-trade more than any other factor, will increase in price two to four times (in constant dollars) in the next five to ten years. Buffet will make an absolute fortune, just immense, maybe the first trillionaire if he lives so long.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Merry Christmas 2009
The men of the family celebrate Alyce's 85th birthday decked out in the Santa Ball Cap from Duluth Trading. Doubleclick pic to enlarge.
"Last Minute Christmas Shopping Spree: Prices Hold: Positve: Yahoo: Finance
Click on the post for the story.
"Packaging "S..T" and Shorting It"----Keys to Success: Yahoo: Finance
It's so complicated....they needed to get large bonuses to retain them...for their expertise...click on the post for the story in Yahoo Finance.
Nostalgia; August 2009: "In Difficult times, cut from the TOP first."
Click on the post for an oldie from the past.
Pioneer Press: Burnsville pledges spending freeze: Can't resist new Baby Grand Piano
The "deal" was "too good to pass up." Click on the post for the complete story. I seem to remember this one from a prior time.
Gazette: Blogs: Sullivan: Disorderly Conduct leads the pack
The top ticket for the past five years in Janesville is "disorderly conduct." Click on the post for the story by Ted Sullivan in the Janesville Gazette.
Video; Observer salutes Alyce on 85th Birthday
Video: Short cameo look at the birthday party of Alyce on her 85th birthday---celebrated recently at the Lafayette Country Club in Minneapolis...Such a joy to celebrate during the Christmas season. Alyce set the standard---live fully to 85 and party at Christmas.
Download File
Download File
Monday, December 21, 2009
"When the Boy's shop---the forgotten song": Tales From Normal, Mn:--FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
Friday, December 18, 2009
2009 Memories: "NO END AROUND":;;;Evansville School Board: 10/12/2009: Mr. Pierick speaks
Ed note: One of the key things that stands out in the stories from 2009 from Evansville, is the hazards of politicians doing an "END AROUND" from the budget process----Mr. Pierick warns of this on this video. The $600,000 wind turbine project of the city was such an end around for the city budget. The theft of the computer equipment from the school is what the end around looks on the expense side. The end around on the capital expenditure is just as hazardous as day to day expenses. Make a note of it.)
Video: Mr. Michael Pierick, spoke about his analysis of the proposed purchase of land on 2nd Street. He concluded that this proposal would not have been included in the budget if it had gone through the process because there were other items that were more important--it was a tough budget decison but his vote was NO.
Download File
Video: Mr. Michael Pierick, spoke about his analysis of the proposed purchase of land on 2nd Street. He concluded that this proposal would not have been included in the budget if it had gone through the process because there were other items that were more important--it was a tough budget decison but his vote was NO.
Download File
Minn Economy turns positive--jobs created--: Star Tribune
Beginning hopeful signs in Minnesota. Click on the post.
Brodhead Schools may cut all sports---if referendum fails: Gazette
Click on the post for the latest.
Evansville Youth Center In Need: Mailbag
Evansville Youth Center in need!
Do you have an extra couch?
Did your kids get blessed with the latest game system for Christmas? What are you going to do with the old one?
Do you have a good quality vacuum you do not need anymore because you got a new one?
Donate it to the Evansville Youth Center!
The Evansville Youth Center provides a positive experience and a fun place to go for youth in grades 5th-8th.
Please help make a fun, safe, positive environment for the youth of this community.
Donate today!
Financial donations are accepted too! Tax deductible!
The following is a list of needs:
Gaming Systems and games
Board & Interactive games
Snacks and Candy
Table Tennis equipment
Table Games
Pool table cue sticks (badly needed)
Wii (big wish list item)
Play Station 3
New Carpet
Couches
Lounge chairs
Outside bike rack
DVD Player
Large screen movie player
Movies (PG 13)
Fridge
Posters, Christmas lights, cool stuff to decorate youth area!
*People to volunteer to sheet rock an area for a mini movie theatre
So clean out the old items in good working order and send them over to the youth center!
They will be very appreciated by many!
Call or drop off the items at:
Evansville Youth Center
YMCA of Rock County
209 S 1st Street
Evansville, WI 53536
608-882-0372
eyc@ymcajanesville.org
Do you have an extra couch?
Did your kids get blessed with the latest game system for Christmas? What are you going to do with the old one?
Do you have a good quality vacuum you do not need anymore because you got a new one?
Donate it to the Evansville Youth Center!
The Evansville Youth Center provides a positive experience and a fun place to go for youth in grades 5th-8th.
Please help make a fun, safe, positive environment for the youth of this community.
Donate today!
Financial donations are accepted too! Tax deductible!
The following is a list of needs:
Gaming Systems and games
Board & Interactive games
Snacks and Candy
Table Tennis equipment
Table Games
Pool table cue sticks (badly needed)
Wii (big wish list item)
Play Station 3
New Carpet
Couches
Lounge chairs
Outside bike rack
DVD Player
Large screen movie player
Movies (PG 13)
Fridge
Posters, Christmas lights, cool stuff to decorate youth area!
*People to volunteer to sheet rock an area for a mini movie theatre
So clean out the old items in good working order and send them over to the youth center!
They will be very appreciated by many!
Call or drop off the items at:
Evansville Youth Center
YMCA of Rock County
209 S 1st Street
Evansville, WI 53536
608-882-0372
eyc@ymcajanesville.org
Thursday, December 17, 2009
WIBA: Talk Radio: Edgewater---end of the line for expansion?
See the link on the right for the discussion on 12/16 beginning in hour 1: Listen to the continuing debate.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
WSJ:WSJ: Edgewater Proposal may be dead---Council unable to override Historic pres
Is the Edgewater proposal dead? Click on the post.
Pioneer Press: St. Paul "reprograms" Rec Centers; Original concept evolving
Click on the post for the latest.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
"Snow Busts Budget for 99th Straight Year"--FICTION: Tales from Normal, MN.
Click on the post for the latest.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Nostalgia: 2008: Video: Merry Christmas Musical Bonus--
Musical Debut: George Wollinger and Jacob Wollinger----Christmas Day---St. Paul's Church--Evansville, Wi.
Download File
Download File
WSJ: Snow surprise may bust Madison budget
Click on the post for the story in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Not ONE Republican supports Financial Reform: Star Tribune
No surprise. Click on the post for the story.
"Expand a War---Get a Nobel Peace Prize"----FICTION: Tales from Normal, MN.
Click on the post for the latest.
New Business Corner:
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
December 11, 2009
Contact: Krista S. Korfmacher, CMP
Evansville Chamber of Commerce
Office: 608.882.5131
evansvillecoc@litewire.net
www.evansvillechamber.org
Grand Opening for ProSpine Chiropractic scheduled for Friday, December 18th at Brown School Plaza
Evansville, WI – A new Evansville business and member of the Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism will officially open its doors with a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, December 18, 2009 at 3:00pm.
ProSpine Chiropractic, located at 827 Brown School Road, will demonstrate the ProAdjuster and give tours of their new office between 3:00 and 6:00pm. Also on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony will be the City of Evansville Mayor Sandy Decker. Refreshments and snacks will be served along with drawings for hourly door prizes.
Dr. Jeff Richard’s clinic is unique in its use of the ProAdjuster in their evaluation and treatment of patients. The ProAdjuster is a state of the art computerized form of adjusting which scans the back before the adjustment, adjusts to segments that the doctor decides meet clinical attention, and scans the back afterwards to check for proper results. All the results are on the computer screen so patients can be part of their health care and actually see and learn about the results of each visit.
Please join us as we welcome ProSpine Chiropractic to the Evansville community. To contact them directly, please call 882.9970. They are taking appointments now.
The Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism welcomes and supports new and existing businesses. We are proud of our “buy local” efforts and hope that you will consider local Evansville merchants for your needs.
Questions? Please call the Chamber at 608.882.5131 or email evansvillecoc@litewire.net.
# # #
For Immediate Release
December 11, 2009
Contact: Krista S. Korfmacher, CMP
Evansville Chamber of Commerce
Office: 608.882.5131
evansvillecoc@litewire.net
www.evansvillechamber.org
Grand Opening for ProSpine Chiropractic scheduled for Friday, December 18th at Brown School Plaza
Evansville, WI – A new Evansville business and member of the Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism will officially open its doors with a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, December 18, 2009 at 3:00pm.
ProSpine Chiropractic, located at 827 Brown School Road, will demonstrate the ProAdjuster and give tours of their new office between 3:00 and 6:00pm. Also on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony will be the City of Evansville Mayor Sandy Decker. Refreshments and snacks will be served along with drawings for hourly door prizes.
Dr. Jeff Richard’s clinic is unique in its use of the ProAdjuster in their evaluation and treatment of patients. The ProAdjuster is a state of the art computerized form of adjusting which scans the back before the adjustment, adjusts to segments that the doctor decides meet clinical attention, and scans the back afterwards to check for proper results. All the results are on the computer screen so patients can be part of their health care and actually see and learn about the results of each visit.
Please join us as we welcome ProSpine Chiropractic to the Evansville community. To contact them directly, please call 882.9970. They are taking appointments now.
The Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism welcomes and supports new and existing businesses. We are proud of our “buy local” efforts and hope that you will consider local Evansville merchants for your needs.
Questions? Please call the Chamber at 608.882.5131 or email evansvillecoc@litewire.net.
# # #
School Board meets Monday---Dec 14, 2009--Sage Waiver on agenda
Click on the post for the full agenda.
Mailbag: Bear Trader writes re: "Financial Reality"
Click on the post for an article recommended by "Bear Trader", a regular contributor to The Observer.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
STAY HOME: Authorities Urge: CapTimes
Current bad conditions to get worse. Click on the post for the story.
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Gazette; Governor Doyle delares emergency on blizzard
Even in the face of a declared emergency, some visonary employers are docking employees for an "occurence" if they are late or absent on a day of declared emergency. The state of Wisconsin needs to look into employment practices like this, and they are rampant.
I and E Christmas Party rescheduled---
Hello Everyone:
I am sorry to inform you that we have decided to reschedule our Holiday Party (scheduled for Wed, Dec 9) due to the winter storm we will experience in the next couple of days. If you have invited friends, please let them know that the party has been cancelled and rescheduled for Wednesday, January 13.
Please plan on attending our party on January 13! I will send reminders again early January.
Happy Holidays,
Cindy Hammer
Secretary, Evansville Area I&E Club
Cindy Hammer
I am sorry to inform you that we have decided to reschedule our Holiday Party (scheduled for Wed, Dec 9) due to the winter storm we will experience in the next couple of days. If you have invited friends, please let them know that the party has been cancelled and rescheduled for Wednesday, January 13.
Please plan on attending our party on January 13! I will send reminders again early January.
Happy Holidays,
Cindy Hammer
Secretary, Evansville Area I&E Club
Cindy Hammer
TalkRadioCorner: WIBA: Evansville School District Discussed Monday
Click on the post for the podcast from Monday's show.
Monday, December 07, 2009
WSJ: Madison Council Braves Strorm to Revive Edgewater
Click on the post for the story in the Wis State Journal.
Gazette: Stay Home when storm hits ----Wis Officials
Click on the post for the story in the Gazette.
Gazette; Swine Flu Clinic at JC McKenna on Wednesday---
Click on the post for the story in the Gazette.
Video: Mathias James, Potter, Opens New Gallery
Video: Mathias James, Potter, Evansville, Wi has opened his new Gallery--the Allen Creek Gallery, at 137 East Main Street, Evansville, Wi 53536; Website www.allencreekgallery.com, Phone 608-882-2415
Download File
Download File
End of the Windmill Wannabees----not to uplift but to save money: Mass: Windwatch
WESTPORT — After plans fell through for a 120-foot wind turbine behind Town Hall, the Alternative Energy Committee has focused its attention on other locations in town where a larger turbine could be built.
The committee is considering locations in Portsmouth, R.I., and Hull for construction of a turbine. It is also looking at Dartmouth, where the town is planning construction of two massive towers at a wastewater treatment plant off Chase Road. Sites under consideration are the landfill on Hixbridge Road and town-owned land behind the fire station under construction west of Route 88.
Locations near the ocean would be best for energy generation, but no specific sites are being considered, said David Dionne, chairman of the Alternative Energy Committee, which is working with a consultant. “It’s a no-brainer to think of getting closer to the water,” he said.
An effort to build a turbine to power Town Hall began after voters approved $63,400 for such a project at the May 2007 Town Meeting, a decision that the Finance Committee and Board of Selectmen advised against. For nearly two years, the Alternative Energy Committee and turbine supporters fought to get a contract signed by selectmen and a Plymouth contractor.
That proposal came to a quiet end this spring when the committee voted to return the money to the town’s general fund. Dionne said at the time that the committee had its sights set on a larger project. “All the stars are aligned at this moment to do something substantial,” he said then.
A turbine proposal would likely receive more support now. Selectmen Chairman Steven Ouellette said the biggest complaint he heard about the plan was that the proposed turbine wasn’t large enough, though it was the largest turbine the town could receive a grant for at the time.
A proposal for a 10-kilowatt turbine was more of a “demonstration,” Dionne said, meant to showcase the town’s commitment to going green rather than being a money-saving measure. “Today, the ground has shifted beneath our feet. Everyone is building much, much larger, commercial-size ones,” he said.
Portsmouth’s turbines dwarf the size of the one proposed in Westport. Portsmouth Abbey’s tower is 660 kilowatts and 240 feet high. One built by the town is 336 feet high and 1.5 megawatts — a capacity 150 times larger than Westport’s would have had.
Two Dartmouth turbines would be 470 feet high, each with a 1.65-megawatt capacity.
Wind data gathered from a test tower west of Lees Market on Main Road showed that the two sites under consideration off Hixbridge Road have energy production potential at least as good as Portsmouth’s, Dionne said.
One obstacle is cost, which is estimated at $3 million to $4 million. The Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust offers $570,000 for public-entity turbines more than 600 kilowatts if a project meets feasibility guidelines. Spokeswoman Emily Dahl said the trust has seen “a lot of interest” in so-called community-scale turbines, those that produce more than 100 kilowatts.
By Grant Welker
Herald News Staff Reporter
www.heraldnews.com
The committee is considering locations in Portsmouth, R.I., and Hull for construction of a turbine. It is also looking at Dartmouth, where the town is planning construction of two massive towers at a wastewater treatment plant off Chase Road. Sites under consideration are the landfill on Hixbridge Road and town-owned land behind the fire station under construction west of Route 88.
Locations near the ocean would be best for energy generation, but no specific sites are being considered, said David Dionne, chairman of the Alternative Energy Committee, which is working with a consultant. “It’s a no-brainer to think of getting closer to the water,” he said.
An effort to build a turbine to power Town Hall began after voters approved $63,400 for such a project at the May 2007 Town Meeting, a decision that the Finance Committee and Board of Selectmen advised against. For nearly two years, the Alternative Energy Committee and turbine supporters fought to get a contract signed by selectmen and a Plymouth contractor.
That proposal came to a quiet end this spring when the committee voted to return the money to the town’s general fund. Dionne said at the time that the committee had its sights set on a larger project. “All the stars are aligned at this moment to do something substantial,” he said then.
A turbine proposal would likely receive more support now. Selectmen Chairman Steven Ouellette said the biggest complaint he heard about the plan was that the proposed turbine wasn’t large enough, though it was the largest turbine the town could receive a grant for at the time.
A proposal for a 10-kilowatt turbine was more of a “demonstration,” Dionne said, meant to showcase the town’s commitment to going green rather than being a money-saving measure. “Today, the ground has shifted beneath our feet. Everyone is building much, much larger, commercial-size ones,” he said.
Portsmouth’s turbines dwarf the size of the one proposed in Westport. Portsmouth Abbey’s tower is 660 kilowatts and 240 feet high. One built by the town is 336 feet high and 1.5 megawatts — a capacity 150 times larger than Westport’s would have had.
Two Dartmouth turbines would be 470 feet high, each with a 1.65-megawatt capacity.
Wind data gathered from a test tower west of Lees Market on Main Road showed that the two sites under consideration off Hixbridge Road have energy production potential at least as good as Portsmouth’s, Dionne said.
One obstacle is cost, which is estimated at $3 million to $4 million. The Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust offers $570,000 for public-entity turbines more than 600 kilowatts if a project meets feasibility guidelines. Spokeswoman Emily Dahl said the trust has seen “a lot of interest” in so-called community-scale turbines, those that produce more than 100 kilowatts.
By Grant Welker
Herald News Staff Reporter
www.heraldnews.com
Blogs: RockNetRoots: Tax Speculative Wall Street Transactions
Click on the post for an idea whose time has come.
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Service of Remembrance Coming Sunday, December 13, 2008
Service of Remembrance Will Honor Loved Ones Lost
Submitted by Nancy Hurley
The holidays can be a difficult time for those mourning the death of a loved one. To reach out to those grieving this holiday season, St. Paul Catholic Church in Evansville is hosting an ecumenical Service of Remembrance on Sunday, December 13, at 7 p.m.
The service is meant for people of all faiths to remember, honor, and celebrate their loved ones who have passed away. Lead by HospiceCare, Inc. Chaplain Linda O’Leary, the service will include prayer, music, reflection, and a candle lighting ceremony.
The Remembrance Service is being held in conjunction with the Compassionate Friends annual global candle lighting, which asks people around the world to light a candle from 7-8 p.m. the second Sunday in December each year to remember children and grandchildren who have died. St. Paul’ Service of Remembrance will honor all loved ones lost.
Refreshments will be served in the church’s lower level following the service, which is free and open to all.
For more information contact Nancy Hurley at 608-882-4327 or NJH223@GMAIL.COM.
###
Submitted by Nancy Hurley
The holidays can be a difficult time for those mourning the death of a loved one. To reach out to those grieving this holiday season, St. Paul Catholic Church in Evansville is hosting an ecumenical Service of Remembrance on Sunday, December 13, at 7 p.m.
The service is meant for people of all faiths to remember, honor, and celebrate their loved ones who have passed away. Lead by HospiceCare, Inc. Chaplain Linda O’Leary, the service will include prayer, music, reflection, and a candle lighting ceremony.
The Remembrance Service is being held in conjunction with the Compassionate Friends annual global candle lighting, which asks people around the world to light a candle from 7-8 p.m. the second Sunday in December each year to remember children and grandchildren who have died. St. Paul’ Service of Remembrance will honor all loved ones lost.
Refreshments will be served in the church’s lower level following the service, which is free and open to all.
For more information contact Nancy Hurley at 608-882-4327 or NJH223@GMAIL.COM.
###
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Pioneer Press: Minn and Wisconsin H1N1 Death Toll revealed
Click on the post for the current numbers.
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Evansville Finance Committee meets tomorrow: Purchasing; Budget on Agenda
Click on the post for the full agenda.
Audio; Bernanke: February 2008
Audio: Bernanke: February 2008; Did Bernanke get it? Bold leader or just baloney? You make the call.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Audio: Feb 2008: Bernanke testimony: Intro
Nostalgia Audio; Barney Frank in introduction to testimony of Chariman Bernanke lists the number one task of regulation and necessity of stopping the cascade of foreclosures----
MP3 File
MP3 File
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
StarTrib: Minn; More Bad Minn economic news due Wednesday---may mean local aid cuts
Click on the post for the full story in the Star Tribune.
Nostalgia: Chopper Mitt Time
The Weather is cooling down. Click on the post for the view back to the old chopper mitts.
H1N1 Clinic THIS WEEK at Rock County Health Dept--walk ins ok
ROCK COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
Rock County
13 miles3328 N US Hwy 51
Janesville, WI 53545view map(608) 757-5440 Administrative
H1N1 FLU SHOT CLINICS (more info...)
Service description:Provides H1N1 flu shots and spray for high-risk target groups only. For more information,visit www.co.rock.wi.us or call the H1N1 flu information line (608) 741-5200.
Intake:Walk-in
Fees:None
Eligibility:The following risk groups include only those individuals that may be vaccinated for H1N1 at this time. (Individuals must receive intranasal mist if eligible.)
People who can receive H1N1 INTRANASAL mist:
* Healthy people 2 years of age through 24 years of age
* Healthy people 2 years of age through 49 years of age who live with or care for an infant under age 6 months (parents, siblings and daycare providers)
* Healthy healthcare workers and emergency medical services personnel under the age of 50, who have, direct contact with patients or infectious material.
People who can receive INJECTABLE vaccine:
* Pregnant women
* People who live with or provide care for infants less than 6 months of age (e.g., parents, siblings, and daycare providers)
* Health-care and emergency medical services personnel who have direct contact with patients or infectious material
* Children 6 months of age through 24 years of age
* People ages 25 years of age through 64 years of age who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications
Hours:November 30, 12:30pm-4:00pm
December 1, 12:30pm-4:00pm
December 2, 12:30pm-4:00pm
December 3, 12:30pm-4:00pm
December 4, 12:30pm-4:00pm
Services:Flu Vaccinations for H1N1 Influenza
hide detailsprint
Rock County
13 miles3328 N US Hwy 51
Janesville, WI 53545view map(608) 757-5440 Administrative
H1N1 FLU SHOT CLINICS (more info...)
Service description:Provides H1N1 flu shots and spray for high-risk target groups only. For more information,visit www.co.rock.wi.us or call the H1N1 flu information line (608) 741-5200.
Intake:Walk-in
Fees:None
Eligibility:The following risk groups include only those individuals that may be vaccinated for H1N1 at this time. (Individuals must receive intranasal mist if eligible.)
People who can receive H1N1 INTRANASAL mist:
* Healthy people 2 years of age through 24 years of age
* Healthy people 2 years of age through 49 years of age who live with or care for an infant under age 6 months (parents, siblings and daycare providers)
* Healthy healthcare workers and emergency medical services personnel under the age of 50, who have, direct contact with patients or infectious material.
People who can receive INJECTABLE vaccine:
* Pregnant women
* People who live with or provide care for infants less than 6 months of age (e.g., parents, siblings, and daycare providers)
* Health-care and emergency medical services personnel who have direct contact with patients or infectious material
* Children 6 months of age through 24 years of age
* People ages 25 years of age through 64 years of age who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications
Hours:November 30, 12:30pm-4:00pm
December 1, 12:30pm-4:00pm
December 2, 12:30pm-4:00pm
December 3, 12:30pm-4:00pm
December 4, 12:30pm-4:00pm
Services:Flu Vaccinations for H1N1 Influenza
hide detailsprint
Evansville Chamber adds new members
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
November 30, 2009
Contact: Krista S. Korfmacher, CMP
Evansville Chamber of Commerce
Office: 608.882.5131
evansvillecoc@litewire.net
www.evansvillechamber.org
Six New Businesses Join the
Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
Evansville, WI – Six new businesses have recently joined the Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism. Here is some information about each business.
ModelUNO Photography, LLC offers a full service photography business. Owner Christy Breiby 882.1109. She will be holding a grand opening/open house on December 12 from 10am-noon at 595 S. 6th St. Santa will be there! www.modeluno.com
Paulson Kimball Construction, LLC functions as a general contractor and design/build contractor specializing in the non-residential marketplace. Owner Norm Paulson 752.6611. www.paulsonkimball.com
PJ’s All About You is a full service salon and spa. Owner PJ Spears 882.5500. email pjsallaboutyou@hotmail.com
ProSpine Chiropractic, LLC offers full chiropractic evaluation and treatment of patients. Owner Dr. Jeff Richards 882.9970. www.prospine.net
Windmill Antiques & Co. offers antiques from quality dealers with American Country, Mission, Victorian, Cottage, Cabin and more. Owner Jean Wyse 882.6970. www.windmillantiquesco.com
Strategic Wealth Management Group offers a wide variety of products and services to help you meet your financial goals, estate strategies and insurance needs. Registered representative Jacob Clevenstine 829.0015. www.sipc.org
The Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism welcomes and supports new and existing businesses. We are proud of our “buy local” efforts and hope that you will consider local Evansville merchants for your needs. Questions? Please call the Chamber at 608.882.5131 or email evansvillecoc@litewire.net.
# # #
For Immediate Release
November 30, 2009
Contact: Krista S. Korfmacher, CMP
Evansville Chamber of Commerce
Office: 608.882.5131
evansvillecoc@litewire.net
www.evansvillechamber.org
Six New Businesses Join the
Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
Evansville, WI – Six new businesses have recently joined the Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism. Here is some information about each business.
ModelUNO Photography, LLC offers a full service photography business. Owner Christy Breiby 882.1109. She will be holding a grand opening/open house on December 12 from 10am-noon at 595 S. 6th St. Santa will be there! www.modeluno.com
Paulson Kimball Construction, LLC functions as a general contractor and design/build contractor specializing in the non-residential marketplace. Owner Norm Paulson 752.6611. www.paulsonkimball.com
PJ’s All About You is a full service salon and spa. Owner PJ Spears 882.5500. email pjsallaboutyou@hotmail.com
ProSpine Chiropractic, LLC offers full chiropractic evaluation and treatment of patients. Owner Dr. Jeff Richards 882.9970. www.prospine.net
Windmill Antiques & Co. offers antiques from quality dealers with American Country, Mission, Victorian, Cottage, Cabin and more. Owner Jean Wyse 882.6970. www.windmillantiquesco.com
Strategic Wealth Management Group offers a wide variety of products and services to help you meet your financial goals, estate strategies and insurance needs. Registered representative Jacob Clevenstine 829.0015. www.sipc.org
The Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism welcomes and supports new and existing businesses. We are proud of our “buy local” efforts and hope that you will consider local Evansville merchants for your needs. Questions? Please call the Chamber at 608.882.5131 or email evansvillecoc@litewire.net.
# # #
Monday, November 30, 2009
Yahoo: Finance: Cyber Monday looks strong
OnLine sales looked strong today...and I can attest to that being on the phones 11 hours today----lots stronger than last year, looking for deals, looking for essentials, and ...maybe a little pent up demand...but Christmas is back......
Click on the post.
Click on the post.
Video; Evansville City Admin Explains
Video: Common Council: 11/10/2009: City Administrator Dan Wietecha explains final budget details, and his recommendation not to have own salary increase. The Council diregarded his advice and granted him a raise.
Download File
Download File
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Pioneer Press: Soucheray: "Until we start killing more deer, none of us are safe"
Click on the post for the latest.
The Top Ten Reasons for Tiger Woods not speaking to the police till Sunday
#10. He wanted time to complete reading the biography of Edward Kennedy.
#9. He wanted to review with his wife the proper swing of a nine iron.
#8. He wanted to finish watching the latest of the vampire movies available.
#7. He wants to change his name from "Tiger", to something...anything else.
#6. He wants to rename his yacht "Privacy" and cannot think of another name.
#5. He wants to check the insurance coverage for hitting a fire hydrant.
#4. He wants to get the story straight about what happened.
#3. He wants to review the thin line between love and hate.
#2. He wants to review whether he really did have an affair with that woman.
#1. He cannot figure out which iron to use.
#9. He wanted to review with his wife the proper swing of a nine iron.
#8. He wanted to finish watching the latest of the vampire movies available.
#7. He wants to change his name from "Tiger", to something...anything else.
#6. He wants to rename his yacht "Privacy" and cannot think of another name.
#5. He wants to check the insurance coverage for hitting a fire hydrant.
#4. He wants to get the story straight about what happened.
#3. He wants to review the thin line between love and hate.
#2. He wants to review whether he really did have an affair with that woman.
#1. He cannot figure out which iron to use.
Wind Turbine Syndrome clinical study published
Wind Turbine Syndrome*
*Clinical study of health effects of large wind turbines published*
-- Press Release --
Rowe, Mass., Nov. 28, 2009 -- Dr. Nina Pierpont, a pediatrician and
population biologist in Malone, New York, has announced the publication
of her book-length study: Wind Turbine Syndrome: A Report on a Natural
Experiment. [1]
In interviews with 10 families living 1,000-4,900 feet away from
recently built industrial-size wind turbines, a "cluster" of symptoms
was revealed: from sleep disturbance, which affected almost everyone, to
headache to tinnitus, vertigo, nausea, irritability, memory and
concentration problems, and panic episodes. Industrial wind turbines
have a total height of 300-400 feet or more, with blades of 125-150 feet
that sweep 1.5-2 acres of vertical airspace.
The book includes supportive reviews and notices by several noted
physicians in related disciplines. Although primarily directed towards
medical professionals, it includes an informative and often poetic
version for the lay audience.
The individuals affected by Wind Turbine Syndrome noticed that they
developed symptoms after the turbines near their homes started turning.
Symptoms were relieved when they left the area and resumed on their
return. Eight of the ten families eventually moved away from their homes
because of the severity of the symptoms.
Although not everyone living near turbines is subject to these symptoms,
the data Pierpont presents are a concern, considering the current
political drive to construct more and ever larger industrial wind
turbines close to people's homes, as well as in the habitats of other
equally or more sensitive animals.
Pierpont's sample size was large enough to show that individuals with
pre-existing migraines, motion sensitivity, or inner ear damage are
particularly vulnerable. People with anxiety or other mental health
problems are not particularly susceptible, she says, contradicting the
common claim of industry developers that "it's all in their head".
"This report is a public health wake-up call that our elected officials
and administrators need to take very seriously", said Eric Rosenbloom,
president of National Wind Watch, a clearinghouse for information about
the adverse effects of industrial wind energy development.
Pierpont and other health and noise experts agree that at a minimum,
large wind turbines should be 2 kilometers (1-1/4 miles) from any
residence. [2]
According to Pierpont, low-frequency noise or vibration from the wind
turbines acts on the balance organs of the inner ear to make the body
think it is moving. And this misperception of motion affects other brain
functions, including physical reflexes, spatial processing and memory,
and physiological fear responses (such as pounding heart and nausea).
Notes
1. Santa Fe, NM: K-Selected Books. See http://www.windturbinesyndrome.com/
2. http://www.wind-watch.org/ww-noise-health.php
*Clinical study of health effects of large wind turbines published*
-- Press Release --
Rowe, Mass., Nov. 28, 2009 -- Dr. Nina Pierpont, a pediatrician and
population biologist in Malone, New York, has announced the publication
of her book-length study: Wind Turbine Syndrome: A Report on a Natural
Experiment. [1]
In interviews with 10 families living 1,000-4,900 feet away from
recently built industrial-size wind turbines, a "cluster" of symptoms
was revealed: from sleep disturbance, which affected almost everyone, to
headache to tinnitus, vertigo, nausea, irritability, memory and
concentration problems, and panic episodes. Industrial wind turbines
have a total height of 300-400 feet or more, with blades of 125-150 feet
that sweep 1.5-2 acres of vertical airspace.
The book includes supportive reviews and notices by several noted
physicians in related disciplines. Although primarily directed towards
medical professionals, it includes an informative and often poetic
version for the lay audience.
The individuals affected by Wind Turbine Syndrome noticed that they
developed symptoms after the turbines near their homes started turning.
Symptoms were relieved when they left the area and resumed on their
return. Eight of the ten families eventually moved away from their homes
because of the severity of the symptoms.
Although not everyone living near turbines is subject to these symptoms,
the data Pierpont presents are a concern, considering the current
political drive to construct more and ever larger industrial wind
turbines close to people's homes, as well as in the habitats of other
equally or more sensitive animals.
Pierpont's sample size was large enough to show that individuals with
pre-existing migraines, motion sensitivity, or inner ear damage are
particularly vulnerable. People with anxiety or other mental health
problems are not particularly susceptible, she says, contradicting the
common claim of industry developers that "it's all in their head".
"This report is a public health wake-up call that our elected officials
and administrators need to take very seriously", said Eric Rosenbloom,
president of National Wind Watch, a clearinghouse for information about
the adverse effects of industrial wind energy development.
Pierpont and other health and noise experts agree that at a minimum,
large wind turbines should be 2 kilometers (1-1/4 miles) from any
residence. [2]
According to Pierpont, low-frequency noise or vibration from the wind
turbines acts on the balance organs of the inner ear to make the body
think it is moving. And this misperception of motion affects other brain
functions, including physical reflexes, spatial processing and memory,
and physiological fear responses (such as pounding heart and nausea).
Notes
1. Santa Fe, NM: K-Selected Books. See http://www.windturbinesyndrome.com/
2. http://www.wind-watch.org/ww-noise-health.php
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Friday, November 27, 2009
ThanksGIVING Day
Many celebrate Thanksgiving by adding a charitable run/walk to the morning. There are a surprising number of your neighbors from Evansville participating in the annual Berbee Derby to raise money for technology in the classrooms. And they have a lot of fun!
Black Friday Deal Corner: Side Clip Suspenders $10 at Duluth Trading
Perfect stocking stuffer. Click on the post for the radical price for today only.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Nichols: Bill Moyers and the tale of two Quagmires
Timely memories about classic choices that define....and destroy. Click on the post.
Next No-Call Deadline is Nov. 30th
Next No-Call Deadline Is Monday, Nov. 30
Information Courtesy of the WI Dept. of Ag, Trade, and Consumer Protection
MADISON...Nov. 30, is the last day to sign up for the next no-call list, which goes into effect Jan. 1. Consumers can always sign up later, but they will not be on the list until April 1.
To place your number on the list, simply go online to https://nocall.wisconsin.gov/web/home.asp or dial 1-866-966-2255 (1-866-9No-Call). This website and toll-free number are available 24 hours a day.
Consumers must sign up every two years. If you are not certain that you signed up within the last two years, you should sign up again to be sure you are not dropped from the list.
For more consumer information, or to file a consumer complaint, contact the Bureau of Consumer Protection online at http://www.datcp.state.wi.us/, via e-mail at hotline@wi.gov, or by calling the toll-free hotline at 1-800-422-7128.
Information Courtesy of the WI Dept. of Ag, Trade, and Consumer Protection
MADISON...Nov. 30, is the last day to sign up for the next no-call list, which goes into effect Jan. 1. Consumers can always sign up later, but they will not be on the list until April 1.
To place your number on the list, simply go online to https://nocall.wisconsin.gov/web/home.asp or dial 1-866-966-2255 (1-866-9No-Call). This website and toll-free number are available 24 hours a day.
Consumers must sign up every two years. If you are not certain that you signed up within the last two years, you should sign up again to be sure you are not dropped from the list.
For more consumer information, or to file a consumer complaint, contact the Bureau of Consumer Protection online at http://www.datcp.state.wi.us/, via e-mail at hotline@wi.gov, or by calling the toll-free hotline at 1-800-422-7128.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Mailbag: I and E Club; Wednesday, Dec 9; Special fun all invited
Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club (I & E Club)
Please Join Us for Our December Holiday Bash!
Wednesday, December 9, 6:30 pm
For our December meeting, we will be having an invention activity/contest. We will divide into groups, and each group will have a number of random items to create an invention. In addition to this fun invention activity, we will have plenty of food and refreshments and ample time for networking and sharing ideas. Please bring an item/object that might not be useful by itself, but if you are creative and add a few more "items" you might come up with the next latest, greatest invention. Note that your “item” will go home with you at the end of the meeting.
The Club will provide food and beverage. Please feel free to bring an appetizer or dessert to pass.
Come share resources, exchange ideas, and be mentored. The club welcomes not just inventors and entrepreneurs, but also established businesses, new businesses, and investors. Everyone, of all ages is welcome! Keep in mind that invention is more than just creating new gizmos, it is innovation too. It can be creating a new service, process, concept, mind-set, message, or strategy which is better than the existing alternatives. You never know who you might meet and what you might learn!
We Meet on the Second Wednesday of Every Month @ 6:30-8:30 PM
Location: Eager Economy Building
7 East Main Street
Evansville, WI 53536
(brick building, lower level)
For more information contact:
John Gishnock
Please Join Us for Our December Holiday Bash!
Wednesday, December 9, 6:30 pm
For our December meeting, we will be having an invention activity/contest. We will divide into groups, and each group will have a number of random items to create an invention. In addition to this fun invention activity, we will have plenty of food and refreshments and ample time for networking and sharing ideas. Please bring an item/object that might not be useful by itself, but if you are creative and add a few more "items" you might come up with the next latest, greatest invention. Note that your “item” will go home with you at the end of the meeting.
The Club will provide food and beverage. Please feel free to bring an appetizer or dessert to pass.
Come share resources, exchange ideas, and be mentored. The club welcomes not just inventors and entrepreneurs, but also established businesses, new businesses, and investors. Everyone, of all ages is welcome! Keep in mind that invention is more than just creating new gizmos, it is innovation too. It can be creating a new service, process, concept, mind-set, message, or strategy which is better than the existing alternatives. You never know who you might meet and what you might learn!
We Meet on the Second Wednesday of Every Month @ 6:30-8:30 PM
Location: Eager Economy Building
7 East Main Street
Evansville, WI 53536
(brick building, lower level)
For more information contact:
John Gishnock
Plan Commission to meet Tuesday to approve duplex at 204 W Main with CUP
(Ed.note: This is the staff report that goes with the agenda for the meeting on Tuesday.)
Description of Request: The applicant has applied for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for use of an
existing residential property for a twofamily
residence . There are a number of twofamily
residences in
the surrounding blocks. The residence at 204 W. Main Appears to have previously been used as a twofamily
residence
Zoning: The property is currently zoned R2
Residential District, which allows twofamily
residences as
a conditional use.
Parking: Section 130321
requires 3 parking stalls for single family and two family dwelling units. The
property has two parking stalls within the existing garage and two stalls on the driveway apron. Section
Staff Report – Conditional Use Permit
204 W. Main Street
Page 2
130321
allows waivers of the parking requirements. Staff recommends granting a waiver of the
requirement for three stalls per unit and allowing the proposed use with the four existing parking stalls.
Recommended Motion: The Plan Commission approves a CUP for a twofamily
residence at 204 W.
Main Street and the waiver of the requirement for three parking stalls per unit.
Description of Request: The applicant has applied for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for use of an
existing residential property for a twofamily
residence . There are a number of twofamily
residences in
the surrounding blocks. The residence at 204 W. Main Appears to have previously been used as a twofamily
residence
Zoning: The property is currently zoned R2
Residential District, which allows twofamily
residences as
a conditional use.
Parking: Section 130321
requires 3 parking stalls for single family and two family dwelling units. The
property has two parking stalls within the existing garage and two stalls on the driveway apron. Section
Staff Report – Conditional Use Permit
204 W. Main Street
Page 2
130321
allows waivers of the parking requirements. Staff recommends granting a waiver of the
requirement for three stalls per unit and allowing the proposed use with the four existing parking stalls.
Recommended Motion: The Plan Commission approves a CUP for a twofamily
residence at 204 W.
Main Street and the waiver of the requirement for three parking stalls per unit.
Monday, November 23, 2009
StarTribune: Minn drivers told to park cars till air quality improves
Click on the post for the story.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
WSJ: The Overture Center may cost taxpayers money soon
Click on the post for the latest in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Gazette; Changes for Brodhead Businesses
Check out the latest from Gina Duwe in the Gazette. Click on the post.
StarTribune: "The Tweet before Christmas.....
Click on the post for the full story. Twitter has a role in many retailers marketing plan this Christmas.
Blogs; Mayor Dave's Dream: Every town like Potosi--but so many brewery museums?
Click on the post for the latest. If you build a place revering booze...they will come.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
Summary
(Ed.note: I found this little note rolled up and inserted in a Mountain Dew bottle and in the gutter near the local park. I have dried it out and printed it without editing.)
Facing Crisis
Responding
Nation
Extending Eternal
War
States
Rigging Budgets
Pleading for Bailout
Failing to
Cut
Cities
Raising Taxes
Building
Libraries..TIF Projects
Ice Arenas
Preening, Proud
Politicians
reveling in stimulus
Debt Dreams
Citizens
in
Foreclosure and
Debt
Dispair
Facing Crisis
Responding
Nation
Extending Eternal
War
States
Rigging Budgets
Pleading for Bailout
Failing to
Cut
Cities
Raising Taxes
Building
Libraries..TIF Projects
Ice Arenas
Preening, Proud
Politicians
reveling in stimulus
Debt Dreams
Citizens
in
Foreclosure and
Debt
Dispair
Seeking Alpha: Bear Corner or Reality Corner?
Click on the post for a summary of where we are in the market recovery.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Journal Sentinal: Milwaukee County Executive Walker makes Cuts---to hold levy even
Click on the post for the full story.
NYDailyNews: Roubini: Roubini calls for bold policy; Worst to come; Does not specify actions he recommends
Click on the post for the article today.
Wind Corner: "Mafia Tied to Wind Fraud in Italy"----
Click on the post for the article today.
One of the key ways folks can determine if a project might just be plagued with fraud, is that the project pays off in about 60+ years if one applies the net revenue to the purchase price....when the project has a life cycle of twenty years. Make a note of it.
One of the key ways folks can determine if a project might just be plagued with fraud, is that the project pays off in about 60+ years if one applies the net revenue to the purchase price....when the project has a life cycle of twenty years. Make a note of it.
StarTrib: Minn: Northstar Commuter Debut mostly flawless---solid ridership
Click on the post for the latest.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Audio: Nostalgia: Indian Chants: The Mercury Conference
Audio: Classic Chants of the Indians from Northern Minnesota; prayer for peace; pure water and respect for nature; Do you remember what year the children from Evansville participated in this conference??
MP3 File
MP3 File
Audio: Evansville School Board: 11/9/2009
Audio; Evansville School Board: 11/9/2009; Votes 4-3 NOT to purchase house on 2nd Street. Beginning at minute 30 to the end of the discussion, classic dialogue on the issue.
Mr. Hatfield explains that the School Board is in the business of education, not flipping real estate...And further that one cannot raise the fund balance by buying an asset and then burning it----the school accountant differed, and was instructed of the erroneous thinking. This is a classic discussion for all students in accounting.
Melissa Hammann weighed in on the issue and said the School Board has decided that nothing will be built till the debt on the High School is paid for in 2021.
Classic audio beginning at the 30 minute mark. Enjoy.
MP3 File
Mr. Hatfield explains that the School Board is in the business of education, not flipping real estate...And further that one cannot raise the fund balance by buying an asset and then burning it----the school accountant differed, and was instructed of the erroneous thinking. This is a classic discussion for all students in accounting.
Melissa Hammann weighed in on the issue and said the School Board has decided that nothing will be built till the debt on the High School is paid for in 2021.
Classic audio beginning at the 30 minute mark. Enjoy.
MP3 File
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Dateline Normal, Mn.: "Normal, Mn. Schedules H1N1 Flu Clinic for 2015"---FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
"Gone with the Wind"-----Wind Developers Arrests spread from Italy around Europe
Click on the post for this developing story.
WSJ: Madison Students learn about White Collar Crime
Click on the post for the story. What a wonderful addition to the curriculum.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Mailbag: Chamber of Commerce: Buy Local Coupon Book ready
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
November 19, 2009
Contact: Krista S. Korfmacher, CMP
Evansville Chamber of Commerce
Office: 608.882.5131
evansvillecoc@litewire.net
www.evansvillechamber.org C
Buy Local Evansville Coupon Book For Sale Now!
Evansville, WI – The Buy Local Evansville Coupon Book 2009-2010 edition is now available for sale for $20. This year’s book has over $4000 worth of value from more than 40 local Evansville merchants. Enjoy savings on food, fuel, entertainment, services and at retail establishments.
The coupon book makes a great holiday gift for that hard-to-buy-for person, as well as for your employees, teachers, clients, day care providers and students. Coupons are valid for one year.
If you would like to purchase a book, please contact the Evansville Chamber of Commerce at 882.5131 or via email at evansvillecoc@litewire.net.
Several local businesses also have the coupon book for sale, including GeneO’s, Evansville Hometown Pharmacy, Union Bank & Trust, Roger G. Roth & Associates, LLP, Evansville Floral, LLC, Allen Realty, Midwest Dental, Piggly Wiggly, Evansville Senior Center, American Family Insurance, Sunshine Kennels, Karate America, Landmark Cenex and ApplianceWorks.
Please contact the Evansville Chamber of Commerce if you have any questions.
(ATTACHMENT: Press Release Cover)
# # #
For Immediate Release
November 19, 2009
Contact: Krista S. Korfmacher, CMP
Evansville Chamber of Commerce
Office: 608.882.5131
evansvillecoc@litewire.net
www.evansvillechamber.org C
Buy Local Evansville Coupon Book For Sale Now!
Evansville, WI – The Buy Local Evansville Coupon Book 2009-2010 edition is now available for sale for $20. This year’s book has over $4000 worth of value from more than 40 local Evansville merchants. Enjoy savings on food, fuel, entertainment, services and at retail establishments.
The coupon book makes a great holiday gift for that hard-to-buy-for person, as well as for your employees, teachers, clients, day care providers and students. Coupons are valid for one year.
If you would like to purchase a book, please contact the Evansville Chamber of Commerce at 882.5131 or via email at evansvillecoc@litewire.net.
Several local businesses also have the coupon book for sale, including GeneO’s, Evansville Hometown Pharmacy, Union Bank & Trust, Roger G. Roth & Associates, LLP, Evansville Floral, LLC, Allen Realty, Midwest Dental, Piggly Wiggly, Evansville Senior Center, American Family Insurance, Sunshine Kennels, Karate America, Landmark Cenex and ApplianceWorks.
Please contact the Evansville Chamber of Commerce if you have any questions.
(ATTACHMENT: Press Release Cover)
# # #
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Dateline Normal, MN.: " State Mandates Mandatory 1K---Needs the money"---FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
Gazette: Wisconsin on list of ten states facing fiscal "calamity" or catastrophe.
Click on the post for the latest.
Video; Evansville City Admin Explains
Video: Common Council: 11/10/2009: City Administrator Dan Wietecha explains final budget details, and his recommendation not to have own salary increase. The Council disregarded his advice and granted him a raise.
Download File
Download File
Video: Brady Lueck, Metal Sculptor;
Meet Brady Lueck, Fine Art Metal Sculptor now displaying his art at the Allen Creek Gallery on East Main Street. You can see more of his work at www.sculpturalsteel.com or call him at 1-262-949-6400 or stop in at 137 East Main Street, Evansville, Wi to see his work.
Download File
Download File
Video: Mathias James, Potter, Opens New Gallery
Video: Mathias James, Potter, Evansville, Wi has opened his new Gallery--the Allen Creek Gallery, at 137 East Main Street, Evansville, Wi 53536; Website www.allencreekgallery.com, Phone 608-882-2415
Download File
Download File
CapTimes: LapTop City Hall Blog----Blog details the city budget meeting in Madison
Click on the post for the scoop.
Common Council: Audio: Budget: 11/10/2009
Audio; Final discussion prior to approval of budget; Discussion of capital expenditures in coming years, library etc; discussion of cut of 30% to teen center; discussion of last minute raise for City Administrator when all other department heads have been frozen.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Audio: Evansville Schools: Open Enrollment: 11/9/2009
Audio: Evansville School School Board discusses plan for Open Enrollment; Enrollment projection: 11/9/2009
MP3 File
MP3 File
Monday, November 09, 2009
Audio; Evansville Schools: Assessment of Disabled students
Audio: Evansville School Board; Nov 9, 2009: Presentation of How Evansville Schools assesses disabled students and the challenges that these students in the Evansville School District present.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Blogs; School Beat: "Chasin Calls for full audit"
In response to the news that there was a theft in the IT dept at the Evansville Schools of about $100,000, there is a growing call for a full, and independent audit of the School District.
The independent audit could focus on purchasing over the past 10 years in all departments, not just IT, and specifically on document backup of expenses reimbursed, as well as inventory control. A focused audit by a experienced audit firm, and not just the cheapest friendly accountant available, is required to regain the confidence of the community.
Click on the post for the comments of "Chasin."
The independent audit could focus on purchasing over the past 10 years in all departments, not just IT, and specifically on document backup of expenses reimbursed, as well as inventory control. A focused audit by a experienced audit firm, and not just the cheapest friendly accountant available, is required to regain the confidence of the community.
Click on the post for the comments of "Chasin."
Grand Opening: Allen Creek Gallery; Mathias James Pottery
Video: Tour of the New Allen Creek Gallery, Home of Mathias James Pottery, as well as introduction to Brady Lueck, Fine Art Sculptor. His work is displayed in the gallery and also at www.sculpturalsteel.com
Download File
Download File
Evansville Finance Committee Discusses Purchasing--no action taken
The Evansville Finance Committee met last week and had a brief discussion on purchasing policy, but took no official action, and nothing is being carried forward to the common council meeting next Tuesday.
In light of the weak purchasing controls that blindsided the Evansville School District recently, a prudent independent review of the current purchasing procedures for the City of Evansville is in order.
In light of the weak purchasing controls that blindsided the Evansville School District recently, a prudent independent review of the current purchasing procedures for the City of Evansville is in order.
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Mailbag; Rep. Brett Davis Writes; Re Educational Reform---opportunity missed last week
80th Assembly District Update - November 6, 2009
Assembly Misses Key Opportunity
to Pass Education Reforms
Last night the State Assembly acted on legislation designed to make changes to Wisconsin's education system. The bills were intended to make our state eligible for federal "Race to the Top" funding. However, the measures that passed are a far cry from the meaningful reform that is needed.
One key provision that is required to make Wisconsin eligible for the Race to the Top grants is removing the prohibition on evaluating teachers based on student test scores. There was a bill, Senate Bill (SB) 372, which was approved last night that addresses this issue by removing the firewall between student test scores and teacher evaluations. However, the problem is that SB 372 built 425 more firewalls in its place.
The legislation fell short of the reforms needed because it simply retains the status quo due to two provisions in the bill. First, the language that was approved forced teacher evaluation plans to be a mandatory subject of collective bargaining in all 425 school districts in Wisconsin. This will result in either very watered-down evaluation plans or no plan being implemented at all. Therefore, I authored an amendment that would remove the collective bargaining provision and simply leave it to school boards to implement an evaluation plan. Unfortunately, this amendment failed.
The other harmful provision in the bill prevents the teacher evaluations from being used to hold poor teachers accountable through possible discharge or disciplinary measures. In fact, this provision is seen by the Wisconsin Association of School Boards as weakening Wisconsin's application for the federal grant program. It makes little sense to allow for the evaluation of teachers, but not give school boards the opportunity to remove the bad teachers in our schools.
Some argue that teachers should not be fired due to a few of their students testing poorly on the standardized WKCE exam. I agree, and the legislation specifically states that school boards must come up with multiple criteria in addition the standardized exams. In fact, I led an amendment that would have changed the language of the bill to state that a teacher could not be fired solely based on the test results.
Overall, I believe we missed a perfect opportunity to pass meaningful education reform, especially with the President visiting our state and talking about the need for changes to our education system. The legislation that passed last night had bipartisan opposition because they did very little to reform our current system. Wisconsin needs to enact multiple measures to ensure our schools remain strong and competitive.
Earlier this week I announced my vision for both reforming our education system and creating a sustainable school finance system. This is done by modernizing our student assessment system and giving school districts the tools they need to budget responsibly and lower property taxes. I will outline this package of reforms in more detail in future updates.
Assembly Misses Key Opportunity
to Pass Education Reforms
Last night the State Assembly acted on legislation designed to make changes to Wisconsin's education system. The bills were intended to make our state eligible for federal "Race to the Top" funding. However, the measures that passed are a far cry from the meaningful reform that is needed.
One key provision that is required to make Wisconsin eligible for the Race to the Top grants is removing the prohibition on evaluating teachers based on student test scores. There was a bill, Senate Bill (SB) 372, which was approved last night that addresses this issue by removing the firewall between student test scores and teacher evaluations. However, the problem is that SB 372 built 425 more firewalls in its place.
The legislation fell short of the reforms needed because it simply retains the status quo due to two provisions in the bill. First, the language that was approved forced teacher evaluation plans to be a mandatory subject of collective bargaining in all 425 school districts in Wisconsin. This will result in either very watered-down evaluation plans or no plan being implemented at all. Therefore, I authored an amendment that would remove the collective bargaining provision and simply leave it to school boards to implement an evaluation plan. Unfortunately, this amendment failed.
The other harmful provision in the bill prevents the teacher evaluations from being used to hold poor teachers accountable through possible discharge or disciplinary measures. In fact, this provision is seen by the Wisconsin Association of School Boards as weakening Wisconsin's application for the federal grant program. It makes little sense to allow for the evaluation of teachers, but not give school boards the opportunity to remove the bad teachers in our schools.
Some argue that teachers should not be fired due to a few of their students testing poorly on the standardized WKCE exam. I agree, and the legislation specifically states that school boards must come up with multiple criteria in addition the standardized exams. In fact, I led an amendment that would have changed the language of the bill to state that a teacher could not be fired solely based on the test results.
Overall, I believe we missed a perfect opportunity to pass meaningful education reform, especially with the President visiting our state and talking about the need for changes to our education system. The legislation that passed last night had bipartisan opposition because they did very little to reform our current system. Wisconsin needs to enact multiple measures to ensure our schools remain strong and competitive.
Earlier this week I announced my vision for both reforming our education system and creating a sustainable school finance system. This is done by modernizing our student assessment system and giving school districts the tools they need to budget responsibly and lower property taxes. I will outline this package of reforms in more detail in future updates.
Gazette; The Potters Journey---Allen Creek Gallery open Today on East Main
Click on the post for the story by Gina Duwe in the Gazette.
Friday, November 06, 2009
Grand Opening of Allen Creek Gallery---Nov 7th
Click on the post for the info. This is the weekend of the Grand Opening of the Allen Creek Gallery, a must see at 137 East Main Street.
St. Paul Parish Hosts Fair Trade Sale November 14, 2009
St. Paul Parish Hosts Fair Trade Sale Nov. 14
Submitted by Nancy Hurley
Wouldn’t it be wonderful this Christmas to find beautiful, handcrafted gifts at prices you could afford? Wouldn’t it be even more wonderful if your purchases could help artisans and farmers worldwide support themselves and their families? That’s the idea behind fair trade, and you can be a part of it. On Saturday, November 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Paul Catholic Church in Evansville will host a fair trade sale that’s open to the public.
You’ll find gorgeous jewelry, scarves, baskets, pottery, table linens, Christmas ornaments, Nativities from around the world, and children’s books and toys along with food products like chocolate, soup mixes, coffee, and tea. By eliminating the middleman fair trade organizations can offer these items at a surprisingly reasonable cost while still providing craftsmen and farmers in developing countries a fair price for their work.
The Fair Trade Sale is being organized by the St. Paul Council of Catholic Women in cooperation with SERRV, a nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating poverty by providing opportunities and support to artisans and farmers around the world. The group hopes to make the sale an annual event.
During the sale the St. Paul Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) will sell soup made from fair trade mixes, cornbread, beverages, and homemade baked goods. CYO includes youth from the parish in grades eight through twelve. Proceeds from the CYO sale, as well as ten percent of the proceeds from the Fair Trade Sale, will be used to mail holiday care packages to local soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Admission to the event is free, but participants are asked to donate either $1 or one of the following items for local Thanksgiving baskets for area residents in need: cranberry sauce, jello, cake mix, frosting, or stuffing. About 150 Thanksgiving baskets will be distributed by the Evansville Ecumenical Care Closet later this month.
For more information on the Fair Trade Sale, or to place a soldier’s name on our list to receive a holiday care package, please contact Nancy Hurley at 882-4327 or NJH223@GMAIL.COM.
###
Submitted by Nancy Hurley
Wouldn’t it be wonderful this Christmas to find beautiful, handcrafted gifts at prices you could afford? Wouldn’t it be even more wonderful if your purchases could help artisans and farmers worldwide support themselves and their families? That’s the idea behind fair trade, and you can be a part of it. On Saturday, November 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Paul Catholic Church in Evansville will host a fair trade sale that’s open to the public.
You’ll find gorgeous jewelry, scarves, baskets, pottery, table linens, Christmas ornaments, Nativities from around the world, and children’s books and toys along with food products like chocolate, soup mixes, coffee, and tea. By eliminating the middleman fair trade organizations can offer these items at a surprisingly reasonable cost while still providing craftsmen and farmers in developing countries a fair price for their work.
The Fair Trade Sale is being organized by the St. Paul Council of Catholic Women in cooperation with SERRV, a nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating poverty by providing opportunities and support to artisans and farmers around the world. The group hopes to make the sale an annual event.
During the sale the St. Paul Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) will sell soup made from fair trade mixes, cornbread, beverages, and homemade baked goods. CYO includes youth from the parish in grades eight through twelve. Proceeds from the CYO sale, as well as ten percent of the proceeds from the Fair Trade Sale, will be used to mail holiday care packages to local soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Admission to the event is free, but participants are asked to donate either $1 or one of the following items for local Thanksgiving baskets for area residents in need: cranberry sauce, jello, cake mix, frosting, or stuffing. About 150 Thanksgiving baskets will be distributed by the Evansville Ecumenical Care Closet later this month.
For more information on the Fair Trade Sale, or to place a soldier’s name on our list to receive a holiday care package, please contact Nancy Hurley at 882-4327 or NJH223@GMAIL.COM.
###
WSJ: Wind Corner: Public Hearing for Glacier Hills draws crowd, divided views
Click on the post for the scoop from the Wisconsin State Journal.
Thursday, November 05, 2009
OpEd; Absentee policy in focus; CDC advises employers to adopt non-punative policies
The CDC, Center for Disease Control, has advised and recommended employers nationwide to avoid punative absentee policies that could endanger public health and harm families.
Some employers have failed to inform employees that there are any exceptions to their strict "occurence" based systems.
If you have an instance where your employer has avoided following the CDC guidelines, send the Evansville Observer a note about this and we will post. The marketplace needs to know. Email fre2observe@yahoo.com
Some employers have failed to inform employees that there are any exceptions to their strict "occurence" based systems.
If you have an instance where your employer has avoided following the CDC guidelines, send the Evansville Observer a note about this and we will post. The marketplace needs to know. Email fre2observe@yahoo.com
StarTribune; State of Minn short of cash---delays corporate refunds and sales tax refunds
Click on the post for the latest.
There has been a rumor also that shortage of revenue in Wisconsin might prompt a revision of state aids and that the state might revise their payments and cities would have to scramble to "adjust" their budgets.
Would city employees take furloughs rather than cut funds for creek walls and fish? Stay tuned.
There has been a rumor also that shortage of revenue in Wisconsin might prompt a revision of state aids and that the state might revise their payments and cities would have to scramble to "adjust" their budgets.
Would city employees take furloughs rather than cut funds for creek walls and fish? Stay tuned.
EMS Can Drive This Saturday, November 7th
EMS Aluminum Can Drive
Saturday, November 7.
Please have cans at the curb by 8:00 am or deliver to EMS Garage 31 S. Madison St.
For rural or business pick-up, please call 882-2269 and leave message.
Proceeds go to new equipment for ambulances.
Saturday, November 7.
Please have cans at the curb by 8:00 am or deliver to EMS Garage 31 S. Madison St.
For rural or business pick-up, please call 882-2269 and leave message.
Proceeds go to new equipment for ambulances.
Audio; Tales; "The Eternal Payback"---FICTION
Audio; Tales From Normal, Mn.: " Politicians get Religious with Eternal Accounting"--FICTION
MP3 File
MP3 File
Gazette: Former Evansville IT coordinator confesses to theft
Click on the post for the article in the Janesville Gazette.
I hope to report more on this after the Evansville School Board meeting. This case raises lots of questions about internal control, purchasing, inventory control, as well as auditing, or depth thereof and timeliness. Stay tuned.
I hope to report more on this after the Evansville School Board meeting. This case raises lots of questions about internal control, purchasing, inventory control, as well as auditing, or depth thereof and timeliness. Stay tuned.
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
WSJ; Text of Pres. Obama's speech today in Madison, Wi.
Click on the post for the full text in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Mailbag: Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin to hold office hours in Evansville next Week.
Good Afternoon,
Helen Forbeck, Field Representative for Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin will be holding Office Hours on behalf of the Congresswoman in Evansville next Tuesday, November 10th. Please stop by if you have any need for help with the federal government or if you have questions or comments about legislation, federal grants or doing work with the federal government.
Tuesday, November 10th
12:15 - 1:15 PM Eager Free Public Library
39 W. Main Street
Helen Forbeck, Field Representative for Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin will be holding Office Hours on behalf of the Congresswoman in Evansville next Tuesday, November 10th. Please stop by if you have any need for help with the federal government or if you have questions or comments about legislation, federal grants or doing work with the federal government.
Tuesday, November 10th
12:15 - 1:15 PM Eager Free Public Library
39 W. Main Street
WSJ: Pres Obama Comes to Madison Today: Education Stimulus in Focus
The Wisconsin State Journal has complete coverage. Click on the post.
Monday, November 02, 2009
Mailbag; Rep. Brett Davis Writes: The Path to Responsible Budget for Wisconsin
80th Assembly District Update - October 30, 2009
Path to Fiscal Recovery is Responsible Budgeting
By Rep. Brett Davis & Rep. Leah Vukmir
In these tough economic times almost everyone has had to take a hard look at their budget. Small businesses and families sit down on a regular basis and examine ways to not spend more than they bring in. However, that same simple and responsible budgeting rationale has continued to elude those in government that craft the state budget.
For two decades our state has had a budget deficit despite the fact that Wisconsin's constitution requires the legislature to maintain a balanced budget. The problem lays in how "balanced" is defined. The Department of Administration and State Controller submit two reports each budget cycle: one based on statutory standards, and another based on Generally Accepted Accounting Practices (GAAP) as approved by the Government Accounting Standards Board.
In 2007, the budget report based on statutory standards claimed a general fund balance of $130.7 million. This report allows various budgeting gimmicks, such as lapses from segregated funds, to be used to "balance" the state's budget. The other, based on GAAP, revealed a more realistic balance of a $2.5 billion deficit. Sadly, there is no requirement for the budget to adhere to the principles of GAAP.
If our budget is compared with other states, only Wisconsin and Illinois have reported GAAP deficits in each of the past 10 years. In 2007 alone, Wisconsin joined the ranks of California, Illinois, and Maine as the only four states with GAAP deficits. In fact, Wisconsin's deficit, as a measure of personal income and population, was the largest in the country for our size.
Things are not getting any better, either. The state budget that passed earlier this year continues these harmful fiscal policies, and has once again spent its way beyond the means of the taxpayers to the tune of $2 billion.
As a state, we cannot allow this to continue. One thing is clear - state government shouldn't be exempt from common-sense budgeting techniques. Therefore, we are introducing the Truth in Budgeting Act, which will implement two major provisions to put Wisconsin back on the road to fiscal recovery.
First, the legislation will ensure balanced and honest budgeting practices. Starting in 2015-16, the bill will require the state budget to be prepared according to GAAP principles. While we would all prefer to accomplish this far sooner, we also recognize closing this large of a budget gap will take time.
The second provision focuses on budget accountability by implementing zero-based budgeting. Currently, state agencies operate on the cost to continue, which equates to the amount received last year plus additional funds based on inflation. Instead, the Truth in Budgeting Act requires agencies to prepare their budgets starting at zero, and justify each component on the basis of cost, need, and relation to statutory responsibilities. Ultimately, this will provide for increased accountability through executive and legislative review of agency funding.
By enacting these common-sense budgeting reforms, we can take a large step toward putting our state back on the right track. Balancing our state budget should be a simple concept that both sides of the aisle can get behind. We believe strongly that government needs to learn to tighten its belt, just like families and small businesses across Wisconsin, especially in times of economic downturn.
Path to Fiscal Recovery is Responsible Budgeting
By Rep. Brett Davis & Rep. Leah Vukmir
In these tough economic times almost everyone has had to take a hard look at their budget. Small businesses and families sit down on a regular basis and examine ways to not spend more than they bring in. However, that same simple and responsible budgeting rationale has continued to elude those in government that craft the state budget.
For two decades our state has had a budget deficit despite the fact that Wisconsin's constitution requires the legislature to maintain a balanced budget. The problem lays in how "balanced" is defined. The Department of Administration and State Controller submit two reports each budget cycle: one based on statutory standards, and another based on Generally Accepted Accounting Practices (GAAP) as approved by the Government Accounting Standards Board.
In 2007, the budget report based on statutory standards claimed a general fund balance of $130.7 million. This report allows various budgeting gimmicks, such as lapses from segregated funds, to be used to "balance" the state's budget. The other, based on GAAP, revealed a more realistic balance of a $2.5 billion deficit. Sadly, there is no requirement for the budget to adhere to the principles of GAAP.
If our budget is compared with other states, only Wisconsin and Illinois have reported GAAP deficits in each of the past 10 years. In 2007 alone, Wisconsin joined the ranks of California, Illinois, and Maine as the only four states with GAAP deficits. In fact, Wisconsin's deficit, as a measure of personal income and population, was the largest in the country for our size.
Things are not getting any better, either. The state budget that passed earlier this year continues these harmful fiscal policies, and has once again spent its way beyond the means of the taxpayers to the tune of $2 billion.
As a state, we cannot allow this to continue. One thing is clear - state government shouldn't be exempt from common-sense budgeting techniques. Therefore, we are introducing the Truth in Budgeting Act, which will implement two major provisions to put Wisconsin back on the road to fiscal recovery.
First, the legislation will ensure balanced and honest budgeting practices. Starting in 2015-16, the bill will require the state budget to be prepared according to GAAP principles. While we would all prefer to accomplish this far sooner, we also recognize closing this large of a budget gap will take time.
The second provision focuses on budget accountability by implementing zero-based budgeting. Currently, state agencies operate on the cost to continue, which equates to the amount received last year plus additional funds based on inflation. Instead, the Truth in Budgeting Act requires agencies to prepare their budgets starting at zero, and justify each component on the basis of cost, need, and relation to statutory responsibilities. Ultimately, this will provide for increased accountability through executive and legislative review of agency funding.
By enacting these common-sense budgeting reforms, we can take a large step toward putting our state back on the right track. Balancing our state budget should be a simple concept that both sides of the aisle can get behind. We believe strongly that government needs to learn to tighten its belt, just like families and small businesses across Wisconsin, especially in times of economic downturn.
StarTribune; Empty Desks; Empty Offices; Businesses Prepare
Workers working by computer from home. Businesses that are overcentralized in operations and who refuse to allow telecomputing would be SOL. How prepared is your business?
Click on the post for the article in the Star Tribunes.
Click on the post for the article in the Star Tribunes.
Yahoo: Retirement; Turning the Traditional Risk Pyramid on its side
Click on the post for the latest.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Mailbag: I and E Club November Meeting: Cindy Writes
Hello Everyone:
Please join us as the Evansville Area I & E Club enters into it's second year! We are growing in numbers and success stories!
Next Meeting - Wednesday, November 11, 6:30 pm
This month’s speaker will be Gary Sedlacek, of the Biz Coach LLC. Gary is a small business consultant. He has a wealth of business experience and offers “hands-on” consulting for small businesses. Mr. Sedlacek will talk about the different business formation options, how to avoid problems, and give an overview of the consulting services he provides for new and existing small businesses.
Come share resources, exchange ideas, and be mentored. The club welcomes not just inventors and entrepreneurs, but also established businesses, new businesses, and investors. Everyone, of all ages is welcome! Keep in mind that invention is more than just creating new gizmos, it is innovation too. It can be creating a new service, process, concept, mind-set, message, or strategy which is better than the existing alternatives. You never know who you might meet and what you might learn!
Refreshments for the November meeting will be sponsored by Hammer Builders LLC.
I have attached an announcement to print, post and distribute. Please bring a friend or colleague. We will see you Wed, Nov 11!
Best Regards,
Cindy Hammer
Secretary, Evansville Area I & E Club
Cindy Hammer
Hammer Builders LLC
http://www.HammerBuilder.com
608-774-6382 608-774-6382
Please join us as the Evansville Area I & E Club enters into it's second year! We are growing in numbers and success stories!
Next Meeting - Wednesday, November 11, 6:30 pm
This month’s speaker will be Gary Sedlacek, of the Biz Coach LLC. Gary is a small business consultant. He has a wealth of business experience and offers “hands-on” consulting for small businesses. Mr. Sedlacek will talk about the different business formation options, how to avoid problems, and give an overview of the consulting services he provides for new and existing small businesses.
Come share resources, exchange ideas, and be mentored. The club welcomes not just inventors and entrepreneurs, but also established businesses, new businesses, and investors. Everyone, of all ages is welcome! Keep in mind that invention is more than just creating new gizmos, it is innovation too. It can be creating a new service, process, concept, mind-set, message, or strategy which is better than the existing alternatives. You never know who you might meet and what you might learn!
Refreshments for the November meeting will be sponsored by Hammer Builders LLC.
I have attached an announcement to print, post and distribute. Please bring a friend or colleague. We will see you Wed, Nov 11!
Best Regards,
Cindy Hammer
Secretary, Evansville Area I & E Club
Cindy Hammer
Hammer Builders LLC
http://www.HammerBuilder.com
608-774-6382 608-774-6382
Minutes; Northwind 100: Wasau School District; October 2008
IV. RECOMMENDATION FOR WIND TURBINE PROJECT
Administration provided an overview of the wind turbine project. The proposed project calls for installation of a Northwind 100 kW wind turbine and a 15 kW wind turbine on the southeast corner of the Wausau East High School campus adjacent to the Zastrow Wetland Education Area. The Northwind turbine, rated at 100 kW, has a rotor diameter of 20 meters and a total height of approximately 157 feet. The 15 kW turbine has a rotor diameter of 17 meters and a total height of 152 feet.
The cost of the project is approximately $574,566. Funding sources for the project are the Walter Alexander Foundation ($400,000), Focus on Energy grants ($129,000), and District funds ($50,000). Outside financial sources are expected for the solar panels ($24,000). Other financial sources may become available for the project.
Estimated annual revenues were discussed. The annual energy output of the two turbines is 120,602 kW with an estimated annual revenue of $16,542. The Wausau School District will receive a return on their investment ($50,000) in approximately four years.
Administration provided an overview of the wind turbine project. The proposed project calls for installation of a Northwind 100 kW wind turbine and a 15 kW wind turbine on the southeast corner of the Wausau East High School campus adjacent to the Zastrow Wetland Education Area. The Northwind turbine, rated at 100 kW, has a rotor diameter of 20 meters and a total height of approximately 157 feet. The 15 kW turbine has a rotor diameter of 17 meters and a total height of 152 feet.
The cost of the project is approximately $574,566. Funding sources for the project are the Walter Alexander Foundation ($400,000), Focus on Energy grants ($129,000), and District funds ($50,000). Outside financial sources are expected for the solar panels ($24,000). Other financial sources may become available for the project.
Estimated annual revenues were discussed. The annual energy output of the two turbines is 120,602 kW with an estimated annual revenue of $16,542. The Wausau School District will receive a return on their investment ($50,000) in approximately four years.
Gazette; Rock Co has Highest Unemployment in Wis: ECHO needs your help
Click on the post for the latest.
Breaking news: Duluth Trading: Made in the USA Jeans
Some folk have been searcing for an American made jean----a search that is pretty difficult to succeed in until now----Duluth Trading has rolled out its USA version of the 5 pocket ballroom jean.
Click on the post for the info. Ya. They are made for dancing.
Click on the post for the info. Ya. They are made for dancing.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Markets: Demographics: Where have all the boomers gone?
Click on the post for an interesting analysis of the "consumer" over the next ten years.
Dateline Normal, MN.: Normal faces budget crisis--boldly builds Ice Arena"---FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
Gazette; Tragedy on Hwy 14
Click on the post for the story in the Janesville Gazette. Our prayers are with Mrs. Flaherty for a full recovery.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
WSJ: Edgewater Developer responds to neighborhood concerns---downsizes project
Click on the post for the latest.
Video: Wind Turbine Overview
Video: Common Council: 10/12/2009; Dave Sauer, Evansville City Engineer reviews the essential of the Northwind 100 wind turbine to be installed at Waste Water Treatment Plant. His notes are on the Observer for review. The public hearing held for the waste water treatment plant did not address any safety or economic payback concerns of the wind turbine. Not one Evansville Citizen attended the Common Council meeting on Monday.
Download File
Download File
PSC: Wind Turbine hearings coming for Glacier Hills Wind Park
Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
Eric Callisto, Chairperson 610 North Whitney Way
Mark Meyer, Commissioner P.O. Box 7854
Lauren Azar, Commissioner Madison, WI 53707-7854
For Immediate Release – Monday, October 26, 2009
Contact: Teresa Weidemann-Smith, (608) 266-9600
PSC to Hold Public Hearings for Glacier Hills Wind Park
MADISON -- The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) will hold public hearings on Wisconsin Electric Power Company’s (WEPCO) application to construct The Glacier Hills Wind Park, a wind electric generation facility in the towns of Randolph and Scott in Columbia County. The public hearings will be held Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Randolph Town Hall, 109 South Madison Street in Friesland with Administrative Law Judge Michael Newmark presiding.
WEPCO, doing business as We Energies, filed an application with the PSC on June 18, 2008, for approval to construct the electric generation facility. The project consists of 90 wind turbines with a total capacity of up to 207 megawatts (MW). The turbines would be located in a project area of approximately 17,300 acres and would be connected together by underground electrical cables. The wind farm would be connected to an existing 138 kilovolt (kV) electric transmission line that traverses the project area via a new interconnection substation.
Public comments on WEPCO’s application will be included in the record the Commission will review to make a decision. Citizens are encouraged to attend the public hearings. If you cannot attend the public hearings, but would like to provide comments, you can do so on the PSC’s website through October 28. Click on the Public Comments button on the PSC’s homepage and click on the case title.
Documents associated with WEPCO’s application can be viewed on our Electronic Regulatory Filing System at http://psc.wi.gov/. Enter case number 6630-CE-302 in the boxes provided on the PSC homepage, or click on the Electronic Regulatory Filing System button.
(END)
Eric Callisto, Chairperson 610 North Whitney Way
Mark Meyer, Commissioner P.O. Box 7854
Lauren Azar, Commissioner Madison, WI 53707-7854
For Immediate Release – Monday, October 26, 2009
Contact: Teresa Weidemann-Smith, (608) 266-9600
PSC to Hold Public Hearings for Glacier Hills Wind Park
MADISON -- The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) will hold public hearings on Wisconsin Electric Power Company’s (WEPCO) application to construct The Glacier Hills Wind Park, a wind electric generation facility in the towns of Randolph and Scott in Columbia County. The public hearings will be held Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Randolph Town Hall, 109 South Madison Street in Friesland with Administrative Law Judge Michael Newmark presiding.
WEPCO, doing business as We Energies, filed an application with the PSC on June 18, 2008, for approval to construct the electric generation facility. The project consists of 90 wind turbines with a total capacity of up to 207 megawatts (MW). The turbines would be located in a project area of approximately 17,300 acres and would be connected together by underground electrical cables. The wind farm would be connected to an existing 138 kilovolt (kV) electric transmission line that traverses the project area via a new interconnection substation.
Public comments on WEPCO’s application will be included in the record the Commission will review to make a decision. Citizens are encouraged to attend the public hearings. If you cannot attend the public hearings, but would like to provide comments, you can do so on the PSC’s website through October 28. Click on the Public Comments button on the PSC’s homepage and click on the case title.
Documents associated with WEPCO’s application can be viewed on our Electronic Regulatory Filing System at http://psc.wi.gov/. Enter case number 6630-CE-302 in the boxes provided on the PSC homepage, or click on the Electronic Regulatory Filing System button.
(END)
Wind Corner Rulemaking;
The PSC proceedings on Wisconsin Electric's Glacier Hills wind project will generate much of the factual foundation for the forthcoming rulemaking on wind permitting standards. Testimony submitted by three expert witnesses hired on behalf of the applicant. These documents were filed last Tuesday. The witnesses are.
Richard Larkin - State Certified Real Estate Appraiser. His testimony rebuts CWESt property values "study."
http://psc.wi. gov/apps/ erf_share/ view/viewdoc. aspx?docid= 121872
William Roberts - PhD in Epidemiology, Former faculty member with the Medical College of Wisconsin (Dept. of Preventative Medicine), former Oklahoma State Epidemiologist. His testimony discusses Nina Pierpont's "research" and rebuts CWESt's acoustical consultant.
http://psc.wi. gov/apps/ erf_share/ view/viewdoc. aspx?docid= 121871
Geoff Leventhall - acoustical consultant, PhD in Acoustics. His testimony discusses low frequency noise and rebuts CWESt's acoustical consultant.
http://psc.wi. gov/apps/ erf_share/ view/viewdoc. aspx?docid= 121870
Of all the documents read over the years that address wind energy impacts on human health and property values, this group of submission is the strongest IMO. The value of these documents to future wind development in North America is inestimable.
These filings will be entered into the record when the technical hearings begin on November 2nd.
Richard Larkin - State Certified Real Estate Appraiser. His testimony rebuts CWESt property values "study."
http://psc.wi. gov/apps/ erf_share/ view/viewdoc. aspx?docid= 121872
William Roberts - PhD in Epidemiology, Former faculty member with the Medical College of Wisconsin (Dept. of Preventative Medicine), former Oklahoma State Epidemiologist. His testimony discusses Nina Pierpont's "research" and rebuts CWESt's acoustical consultant.
http://psc.wi. gov/apps/ erf_share/ view/viewdoc. aspx?docid= 121871
Geoff Leventhall - acoustical consultant, PhD in Acoustics. His testimony discusses low frequency noise and rebuts CWESt's acoustical consultant.
http://psc.wi. gov/apps/ erf_share/ view/viewdoc. aspx?docid= 121870
Of all the documents read over the years that address wind energy impacts on human health and property values, this group of submission is the strongest IMO. The value of these documents to future wind development in North America is inestimable.
These filings will be entered into the record when the technical hearings begin on November 2nd.
Music Corner; Elise Larson in concert this Sunday: Free Student Recital: Morphy Hall; 3:30PM
Click on the post for the details. Elise is the EHS Grad who played in Carnegie Hall as a senior in High School and most recently played in The King and I in Evansville. This is a free student recital.
CapTimes: OpEd: Water Wars heat up
Water is on the front burner again. Click on the post for the latest.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
"Bye Bye American Pie" Part II
As Americans grapple with the health care reform currently in process, and as Americans grapple with the swine flu and the prospect of revisiting the national pandemic of 1917, when the public did not attend public functions in order to avoid exposure...the question still arises as it did in American Pie---Are you ready for some startling change?? Are you ready for some virtual school, some virtual football, some virtual public meetings, some virtual church? If not...why not?
Click on the post for the lyrics and the analysis.
Click on the post for the lyrics and the analysis.
Evansville School Board: 10/12/2009: Mr. Pierick speaks
Video: Mr. Michael Pierick, spoke about his analysis of the proposed purchase of land on 2nd Street. He concluded that this proposal would not have been included in the budget if it had gone through the process because there were other items that were more important--it was a tough budget decison but his vote was NO.
Download File
Download File
NYT: Twitter Search coming to Google?
Click on the post for an article in the NYT today on the progress of search engines.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Gazette; Edgerton Schools to vote on tax increase of 18.7% Monday
Click on the post for the story in the Gazette.
OpEd: National Emergency should mean flexible employers...or hefty fines
Many employers have used the severe downturn in the economy to take advantage of employees and use any minor "incident" in their attendence to develop a case to fire them. Even in the face of the swine flu, we see employers not making any exeptions---
Employees should do the right thing and keep their kids home from school, and keep themselves away from work if they show symptoms of the swine flu. Employers who take action against employees who protect their health or the health of their family should face severe fines.
Declaring a national health emergency is nice. Now comes the necessity to make the safety precautions happen. Employers who are hostile to health and the health care of their employees should be noted and avoided in the marketplace.
Employees should do the right thing and keep their kids home from school, and keep themselves away from work if they show symptoms of the swine flu. Employers who take action against employees who protect their health or the health of their family should face severe fines.
Declaring a national health emergency is nice. Now comes the necessity to make the safety precautions happen. Employers who are hostile to health and the health care of their employees should be noted and avoided in the marketplace.
Commuter Rail begins on November 16, 2009 from Big Lake, Mn. to Mpls---
Big milestone for Minnesota commuters on November 16th----commuters from up north can leave the car behind and ride the rail.
Click on the post for some info.
Click on the post for some info.
Public Works: 2-26-2008: New Senior Center Site Plan
Evansville City Engineer Dave Sauer reviews the submitted site plan; Notes areas of concern; States that position of facility on the creek is illogical. It appears to move the facility to the area of the flood plain rather than away from it. Has requested resubmission.
The current task force naming the senior/community has been defiant and named the facility "Creekside" and placed the facility right on the waterway. Stay tuned.
MP3 File
The current task force naming the senior/community has been defiant and named the facility "Creekside" and placed the facility right on the waterway. Stay tuned.
MP3 File
StarTribune; Sex Bias Suit against Schwan's heads to court.
Click on the post for the story in the Star Tribune.
Rep. Brett Davis wins Virtual School Award
Davis Receives Shining Star Award
Earlier this week, it was Virtual School Day at the Capitol sponsored by the Wisconsin Coalition of Virtual School Families. The families honored Rep. Davis at the event with an award for his work on virtual school legislation in the last legislative session. He was awarded the 2008 Shining Star Award.
Earlier this week, it was Virtual School Day at the Capitol sponsored by the Wisconsin Coalition of Virtual School Families. The families honored Rep. Davis at the event with an award for his work on virtual school legislation in the last legislative session. He was awarded the 2008 Shining Star Award.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Mailbag; Bear Trader writes on "Low Frequencey Sound and Wind Turbines"
Wednesday October 21, 2009
What effect does low frequency sound generated by wind turbines have on people’s living within range of the effects?
This is a difficult question to answer scientifically. The issue is intensely political in nature.
Myself, from curiosity, years ago I set up low frequency loudspeaker driven resonators in my home. There are interesting effects. I expect that at least some of the criticism aimed at wind turbines’ low frequency effects is valid. As a result of my earlier experiments I would sell real estate before it was so affected.
Aerodynamic effects caused by the blades generate wind turbine low frequency noise. The air pressure very close to the blades in the “upstream” or “upwind” direction is higher than the air pressure very close to the blades in the “downstream” or “downwind” direction. The higher pressure on the “front” of the blades combined with the lower pressure on the “back” are what causes the blades to turn. What is happening is exactly the same as an airplane’s wing; the difference in pressure is what makes the wing “lift”. In the wind turbine’s case the blade is so built as to have “lift” in the direction needed to cause the turbine to turn (even though loaded with a power generator) instead of causing flight. As the air spills over and then off of the wing, or over and off the wind turbine blade, the higher pressure air flows into the lower pressure air, causing a rapid increase in air velocity, which is what causes sound. An “eddy” of spinning air is formed, which is continuously being “pulled off” by the moving wing or turning turbine blade, forming downstream vortices. In the case of wind turbine blades (and airplane wings) every effort is taken to reduce waste energy contained in these vortices. The vortices cannot be eliminated but can be made to contain less energy, meaning that the vortices will be relatively less abruptly curved and with less rotational velocity. A decrease in rotational velocity and vortex curvature means a decrease in the frequency of sound emission. We see this in the sound spectra emitted by wind turbines.
So this is where the low frequency sound is coming from. Those who have heard tornadoes note the great intensity of their low frequency sound; same thing is happening here on a much smaller scale.
I suspect many folks are not comfortable with decibels, abbreviated dB. Human hearing has a great range of sensitivity to sound pressure. The least sound pressure detectable by most young ears is 0.00002 newtons per square meter (called a “pascal”). This is 0.000000029 pounds per square inch. It is defined as zero dB sound pressure level. This is a pressure. The power of a sound is proportional the square of the pressure.
The decibel is a logarithmic function. A 10 dB increase means an increase in sound pressure of ten times. Another 10 dB increase means another increase of ten times in sound pressure (and 100 times sound power). One can see that a 20 dB increase is an increase of 10 times 10 times, or an increase of 100 times in sound pressure, and 10,000 times in sound power. Similarly an increase of 30 dB means a sound pressure increase of 1000 times. A sound pressure of 100 dB is then 10x10x10x10x10x10x10x10x10x10, or 10,000,000,000 times. In terms of pounds per square inch, this is 290 pounds per square inch. A loud rock concert (or ear buds maxed out) can measure 110 dB. This is a sound pressure level of 1.5 tons per square inch. Hearing damage ensues. Many car audio installs can hit 120 dB (15 tons per square inch). Shock waves start at 180 dB and work up.
Back to wind turbines, finally!
From the graph I sent you earlier, the representative wind turbine producing a 55 dB(A) noise sound pressure level would produce very low frequency sound of about 100 dB.
This means that the sound pressure caused by very low frequency sound is 45 dB more intense than what is measured using the dB(A) curve. This is the same thing as saying that the sound pressure at very low frequencies is about 40,000 times greater, and therefore 1,600,000,000 more sound power, than what the decibel meter reads when using the dB(A) scale. This means that there is a lot, a lot, of very low frequency sound emitted.
All of this assumes that the measurements were taken correctly so as to allow correction of the measurements to the standard point source at one meter. I am very skeptical about that.
What are the effects of this much very low frequency sound on neighboring human beings? Well, this is a matter of intense political debate; with the pro wind energy people saying such sound is “inaudible”, amongst other things. Certainly I found, in my decades ago experiments, that twenty cycles per second (“Hertz”, hz) at about 80 dB couldn’t be “heard” very well with the ears but had a strong effect on me. Instead of “hearing” with my ears I was “hearing” with my whole body; I remember a deep shaking in the gut and spiders crawling on my skin.
Very low frequency sound goes through house walls like they weren’t there. Even eight inches of concrete isn’t much of a barrier (1 or 2 dB).
Low frequency sound propagation is just now being studied seriously (mostly in Europe, anyone trying this in the USA would never get funding). One thing is well known is that during atmospheric temperature inversions, that is, during times when the air temperature is higher as you go upwards, low frequency sound will be bent, refracted, back toward the ground instead of escaping into the higher atmosphere. In our area we have frequent temperature inversions at night during the winter there is little wind. The ground fog we are so used to is a sign of temperature inversion as the fog is caused by lower air temperatures near the ground than higher up. During these times the homeowner should experience higher very low frequency sound levels and the effects would be noticed over greater distances and a wider area.
Am thinking about buying the tools to do a bit of measurement work in this field. Should be possible to get started with $10,000 maybe.
What effect does low frequency sound generated by wind turbines have on people’s living within range of the effects?
This is a difficult question to answer scientifically. The issue is intensely political in nature.
Myself, from curiosity, years ago I set up low frequency loudspeaker driven resonators in my home. There are interesting effects. I expect that at least some of the criticism aimed at wind turbines’ low frequency effects is valid. As a result of my earlier experiments I would sell real estate before it was so affected.
Aerodynamic effects caused by the blades generate wind turbine low frequency noise. The air pressure very close to the blades in the “upstream” or “upwind” direction is higher than the air pressure very close to the blades in the “downstream” or “downwind” direction. The higher pressure on the “front” of the blades combined with the lower pressure on the “back” are what causes the blades to turn. What is happening is exactly the same as an airplane’s wing; the difference in pressure is what makes the wing “lift”. In the wind turbine’s case the blade is so built as to have “lift” in the direction needed to cause the turbine to turn (even though loaded with a power generator) instead of causing flight. As the air spills over and then off of the wing, or over and off the wind turbine blade, the higher pressure air flows into the lower pressure air, causing a rapid increase in air velocity, which is what causes sound. An “eddy” of spinning air is formed, which is continuously being “pulled off” by the moving wing or turning turbine blade, forming downstream vortices. In the case of wind turbine blades (and airplane wings) every effort is taken to reduce waste energy contained in these vortices. The vortices cannot be eliminated but can be made to contain less energy, meaning that the vortices will be relatively less abruptly curved and with less rotational velocity. A decrease in rotational velocity and vortex curvature means a decrease in the frequency of sound emission. We see this in the sound spectra emitted by wind turbines.
So this is where the low frequency sound is coming from. Those who have heard tornadoes note the great intensity of their low frequency sound; same thing is happening here on a much smaller scale.
I suspect many folks are not comfortable with decibels, abbreviated dB. Human hearing has a great range of sensitivity to sound pressure. The least sound pressure detectable by most young ears is 0.00002 newtons per square meter (called a “pascal”). This is 0.000000029 pounds per square inch. It is defined as zero dB sound pressure level. This is a pressure. The power of a sound is proportional the square of the pressure.
The decibel is a logarithmic function. A 10 dB increase means an increase in sound pressure of ten times. Another 10 dB increase means another increase of ten times in sound pressure (and 100 times sound power). One can see that a 20 dB increase is an increase of 10 times 10 times, or an increase of 100 times in sound pressure, and 10,000 times in sound power. Similarly an increase of 30 dB means a sound pressure increase of 1000 times. A sound pressure of 100 dB is then 10x10x10x10x10x10x10x10x10x10, or 10,000,000,000 times. In terms of pounds per square inch, this is 290 pounds per square inch. A loud rock concert (or ear buds maxed out) can measure 110 dB. This is a sound pressure level of 1.5 tons per square inch. Hearing damage ensues. Many car audio installs can hit 120 dB (15 tons per square inch). Shock waves start at 180 dB and work up.
Back to wind turbines, finally!
From the graph I sent you earlier, the representative wind turbine producing a 55 dB(A) noise sound pressure level would produce very low frequency sound of about 100 dB.
This means that the sound pressure caused by very low frequency sound is 45 dB more intense than what is measured using the dB(A) curve. This is the same thing as saying that the sound pressure at very low frequencies is about 40,000 times greater, and therefore 1,600,000,000 more sound power, than what the decibel meter reads when using the dB(A) scale. This means that there is a lot, a lot, of very low frequency sound emitted.
All of this assumes that the measurements were taken correctly so as to allow correction of the measurements to the standard point source at one meter. I am very skeptical about that.
What are the effects of this much very low frequency sound on neighboring human beings? Well, this is a matter of intense political debate; with the pro wind energy people saying such sound is “inaudible”, amongst other things. Certainly I found, in my decades ago experiments, that twenty cycles per second (“Hertz”, hz) at about 80 dB couldn’t be “heard” very well with the ears but had a strong effect on me. Instead of “hearing” with my ears I was “hearing” with my whole body; I remember a deep shaking in the gut and spiders crawling on my skin.
Very low frequency sound goes through house walls like they weren’t there. Even eight inches of concrete isn’t much of a barrier (1 or 2 dB).
Low frequency sound propagation is just now being studied seriously (mostly in Europe, anyone trying this in the USA would never get funding). One thing is well known is that during atmospheric temperature inversions, that is, during times when the air temperature is higher as you go upwards, low frequency sound will be bent, refracted, back toward the ground instead of escaping into the higher atmosphere. In our area we have frequent temperature inversions at night during the winter there is little wind. The ground fog we are so used to is a sign of temperature inversion as the fog is caused by lower air temperatures near the ground than higher up. During these times the homeowner should experience higher very low frequency sound levels and the effects would be noticed over greater distances and a wider area.
Am thinking about buying the tools to do a bit of measurement work in this field. Should be possible to get started with $10,000 maybe.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Video: Wisconsin State Journal: H1N1 Flu Clinics begin in Madison Schools: Evansville?
Swine flu targets kids. Click on the post to see the video story from the Wisconsin State Journal.
Libertyville wind turbine was 120 feet; Evansville is 150.
Click on the post. The Story of Libertyville is instructive.
Gazette; Janesville schools absenteeim climbs over 10%
Click on the post for the story in the Gazette.
Mediafly: Onion Radio News ---COMEDY
Click on the post for the audio version of the Onion. Click "View Episodes" to see all the episodes available free.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Dateline Normal, Mn.: "Christmas Sales Plunge in Normal, MN.: Swine Flu: ---FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
Gazette; Bill introduced to protect consumers from overdraft abuse
Click on the post for the latest.
Jim Brooks New Evansville Community Partnership Coordinator
October 19, 2009
The Evansville Community Partnership is pleased to announce that Jim Brooks has been hired as our new Community Coordinator. Jim stepped in an as interim when our former coordinator, Robin Grignon relocated to Necedah. Robin did a great job of expanding the events offered by ECP to fulfill its mission to give all members of the community an opportunity to participate in the cooperative creation of an economically and socially sound, vibrant future for our community and its people. Jim’s background with non-profits through the Stateline Literacy Council, his many local contacts through the Evansville Community Theater, his computer and logistic talents as well as his marketing skills will make him a great match for ECP .
The Evansville Community Partnership is pleased to announce that Jim Brooks has been hired as our new Community Coordinator. Jim stepped in an as interim when our former coordinator, Robin Grignon relocated to Necedah. Robin did a great job of expanding the events offered by ECP to fulfill its mission to give all members of the community an opportunity to participate in the cooperative creation of an economically and socially sound, vibrant future for our community and its people. Jim’s background with non-profits through the Stateline Literacy Council, his many local contacts through the Evansville Community Theater, his computer and logistic talents as well as his marketing skills will make him a great match for ECP .
Mailbag; Evansville School District Writes:
The Board of Education Wants Your Input!
What is your vision for the Evansville Community School District in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years? The Evansville Community School District Board of Education is interested in your input. Please submit your ideas by November 10 via e-mail to vision@evansville.k12.wi.us or, if you prefer traditional mail:
Vision/Board of Education
ECSD District Office
340 Fair Street
Evansville, WI 53536
If you would also be interested in serving on a focus group regarding this topic, please let us know!
What is your vision for the Evansville Community School District in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years? The Evansville Community School District Board of Education is interested in your input. Please submit your ideas by November 10 via e-mail to vision@evansville.k12.wi.us or, if you prefer traditional mail:
Vision/Board of Education
ECSD District Office
340 Fair Street
Evansville, WI 53536
If you would also be interested in serving on a focus group regarding this topic, please let us know!
Mailbag: Bear Trader Writes: On Low Frequency Sound and YOU
Monday, October 19, 2009
Have done some very preliminary work on the wind turbine issue. This is meant as a report. I express no opinions, as I have none.
I do see one glaring scientific error in how sound pressure levels generated by wind turbines are measured. Below is a chart showing the response curve in dB of acoustic weighting curves used in measuring sound pressure levels. The “A” curve is the standard used in the USA, and certainly is the weighting curve used when rating wind turbine “noise”. This curve is incorrect in this application.
First the curves, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A-weighting
Note the rapid roll off in the response at low frequencies. Since many suspect (as do I) that the biggest wind turbine noise acceptance problem lies in low frequency noise the dB(A) scale is not an appropriate measure of wind turbine sound acceptability.
Below is a spectral representation of sound pressure levels of a wind turbine (as no information in source of how the sound spectrum was measured the spectrum as limited usefulness but is all I can find. Equipment to measure this sort of thing costs thousands of dollars.)
This graphic comes from a “pro” wind turbine site: http://www.ceere.org/rerl/publications/whitepapers/Wind_Turbine_Acoustic_Noise_Rev2006.pdf
Notice that the noise coming from this turbine is preponderantly of low frequency. The highest sound pressure levels, as you can see, are in the range of 4 to 8 hz (cycles per second) – deep “infrasound”. A sound pressure meter using “A” weighting largely rejects the “loudest” frequencies.
See the attached excel file for details.
See the spreadsheet for explanation of X axis numbering. They are third octave bands starting about 2 hz and running to 8000 hz. The bottom line is that the actual sound pressure level using the complete bandwidth is about twice as high as would be indicated by a meter calibrated in dB(A). These spectrum graphs don’t equate meter readings – in fact they are more accurate and representative – but it means that if this tower in particular would be rated about 56 dB(A) then the “actual” sound pressure level would be greater than 100 dB, and that the great majority of the sound would be generated at low and very low frequency.
Interesting, eh?
Found some good sites: http://www.acousticecology.org/srwind.html
Rock County site: http://betterplan.squarespace.com/
Have done some very preliminary work on the wind turbine issue. This is meant as a report. I express no opinions, as I have none.
I do see one glaring scientific error in how sound pressure levels generated by wind turbines are measured. Below is a chart showing the response curve in dB of acoustic weighting curves used in measuring sound pressure levels. The “A” curve is the standard used in the USA, and certainly is the weighting curve used when rating wind turbine “noise”. This curve is incorrect in this application.
First the curves, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A-weighting
Note the rapid roll off in the response at low frequencies. Since many suspect (as do I) that the biggest wind turbine noise acceptance problem lies in low frequency noise the dB(A) scale is not an appropriate measure of wind turbine sound acceptability.
Below is a spectral representation of sound pressure levels of a wind turbine (as no information in source of how the sound spectrum was measured the spectrum as limited usefulness but is all I can find. Equipment to measure this sort of thing costs thousands of dollars.)
This graphic comes from a “pro” wind turbine site: http://www.ceere.org/rerl/publications/whitepapers/Wind_Turbine_Acoustic_Noise_Rev2006.pdf
Notice that the noise coming from this turbine is preponderantly of low frequency. The highest sound pressure levels, as you can see, are in the range of 4 to 8 hz (cycles per second) – deep “infrasound”. A sound pressure meter using “A” weighting largely rejects the “loudest” frequencies.
See the attached excel file for details.
See the spreadsheet for explanation of X axis numbering. They are third octave bands starting about 2 hz and running to 8000 hz. The bottom line is that the actual sound pressure level using the complete bandwidth is about twice as high as would be indicated by a meter calibrated in dB(A). These spectrum graphs don’t equate meter readings – in fact they are more accurate and representative – but it means that if this tower in particular would be rated about 56 dB(A) then the “actual” sound pressure level would be greater than 100 dB, and that the great majority of the sound would be generated at low and very low frequency.
Interesting, eh?
Found some good sites: http://www.acousticecology.org/srwind.html
Rock County site: http://betterplan.squarespace.com/
Mailbag: Jim Writes; Wind: Memories of the .com era
This whole wind energy think reminds me of the .com days. Companies sprouted up overnight. They paid $10.00 for something sold it for $6.00 and offered free shipping. There was so much money coming in the back door from investors to cover the lost sales nobody cared. The same thing is happening with wind turbines, Tax incentives and grant money are so plentiful nobody cares how much a turbine actually costs. No one cares that there will never be a return on the initial investment. When the money dries up, and it will, these gold rush turbines will be standing all over the place rusting with no money to repair or decommission and take them down.
Check this out, another Wisconsin wind farm is flipped. Of course this will not have any effect on our electric rates.
http://greenstockscentral.com/fpl-group-subsidiary-fpl-to-buy-babcock-brown-wind-farms-2259.html
http://www.crh.noaa.gov/mkx/?n=windfarm
Jim
Check this out, another Wisconsin wind farm is flipped. Of course this will not have any effect on our electric rates.
http://greenstockscentral.com/fpl-group-subsidiary-fpl-to-buy-babcock-brown-wind-farms-2259.html
http://www.crh.noaa.gov/mkx/?n=windfarm
Jim
Sunday, October 18, 2009
The Change:
The year 2008 and before:
options
deals
financing
armani suits
white collar crime
sleaze
enron
deceit
slick
investment professionals with the slick prospectus
corrupt financing of elections
-----------------------------------------------
2009 and forward
cash
no deals
simple living
hard work
honesty
family
smiles
simple denim
denim with fleece not sleaze
hope
paid up mortgages
corrupt financing of elections
----------------------------
O.K. It appears there are some stuck back in the old regime.
options
deals
financing
armani suits
white collar crime
sleaze
enron
deceit
slick
investment professionals with the slick prospectus
corrupt financing of elections
-----------------------------------------------
2009 and forward
cash
no deals
simple living
hard work
honesty
family
smiles
simple denim
denim with fleece not sleaze
hope
paid up mortgages
corrupt financing of elections
----------------------------
O.K. It appears there are some stuck back in the old regime.
Where is the quietest point of a wind turbine?
Right at the base of the turbine. Click on the post for the info. This is why all the statistics by the manufacturers just give the decibal level at the base. Nice huh?
Video: Wind Turbine Overview
Video: Common Council: 10/12/2009; Dave Sauer, Evansville City Engineer reviews the essential of the Northwind 100 wind turbine to be installed at Waste Water Treatment Plant. His notes are on the Observer for review. The public hearing held for the waste water treatment plant did not address any safety or economic payback concerns of the wind turbine. Not one Evansville Citizen attended the Common Council meeting on Monday.
Download File
Download File
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Dateline Normal, MN.: "The Eternal Payback"-----Politicians get religious in recession--FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Dateline Normal, Mn: "Up a Crick...Down the River Estates" Opens---FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
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