Evansville Observer: 10/01/2012

Monday, October 29, 2012

Wireman: Event for Mark Pocan Tuesday, October 30th

State Rep. Mark Pocan Candidate for U.S. Congress in Wisconsin’s 2nd District Tuesday, October 30th 5:00pm – 7:00pm Brocach Irish Pub 7 West Main Street On Madison’s Capitol Square ∞ Kindly RSVP to Rachelle at (608) 258-2012 or Rachelle@pocanforcongress.com All contributions greatly appreciated Checks can be made payable to Pocan for Congress and mailed to PO Box 327, Madison, WI 53701 or

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/29/open-enrollment-benefits-some-and-hurts-others/

Mailbag: Dr. Dennis Cooper writes Re La Dolce Vita Pt 2:

Hello folks, Well, I went to see La Dolce Vita tonight. Silvano Agosti was there, but didn't remember me. I don't blame him - there have been about 311 Sunday nights since the last time I saw him (6 years ago). While handing out candy pieces in the theater (sweets - get it? The Sweetness of Life - La Dolce Vita? Never mind), Mr. Agosti did ask me what I was doing in this city of vice (Rome). I said I was following my students around Europe. He regarded me suspiciously: "Students? School?" Given his "murderer of the spirit" comment, I sensed what was coming, but I played it straight: "Yes," I replied. He said, "I wrote an article about schools," and although the exact wording he used escapes me, he asserted his opinion that schools don't let children emerge as themselves. "They come out as something - a Pope maybe - but not themselves." It was a blunt message of disapproval. He said all this in English, then proceeded to translate to Italian for the benefit of other members of the audience. They looked at me. The scarlet letter of P glowed on my forehead. P for "pyrriah. I didn't mind much, because I am a strong person, because I was mentally prepared, and because I am not sure how to spell "pyrriah." Mr Agosti returned just before screening the movie to introduce it. He said, "I saw this film when it opened in Milan in 1960. It is a condemnation of the decadence of the aristocracy, the rich and powerful. Many people in the audience wore fancy clothes, jewelry, etc. Fellini was present, and as he walked up the aisle towards the exits, people were spitting on him." It is now regarded as one of the all-time great movies ever. Personally, I enjoyed the movie much more the second time, primarily because I understood it much better this time around. I especially appreciated the depiction of emptiness and sadness in the Marcello Mastrioianni character as he tries to connect with his distant father, and as he reaches out to his revered, idealized friend Steiner, only to be crushed by tragedy. After the movie, I shook Mr. Agosti's hand and told him it was good to see him. He smiled and bid me to "take care of that mess in America", or something like that. He still didn't remember our earlier meeting. I'll see you soon, Dennis

Sunday, October 28, 2012

"New driver? Don't use a cell phone in Wis." by Latest News -- GazetteXtra

Mailbag: Rome: Dr. Cooper Writes re: " La Dolce Vita"

Hi Everybody, Just saw the movie "Hope Springs" with Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones. I give it two stars (out of four). The subject is maintaining or regaining a loving relationship after many years and changes together. Discuss among yourselves. Rome has a cinema called Nuovo Olimpia that shows American movies in English (with Italian subtitles). It is located on Via in Lucina, 16/g, just off the Via del Corso, south of the Piazza del Popolo and west of the Spanish Steps. In 2006, I saw two new American movies: The Departed, with Leonardo di Caprio, and Babel, with Brad Pitt. The opportunity to watch movies in English is one of the reasons I like to camp in Rome for a few days before the final semester meeting with the students in Levanto, Italy, just north of the Cinque Terra. Tonight, I plan to see Fellini's La Dolce Vita, dubbed in English, at the cinema Azzurro Scipioni near Vatican City. The cinema is run by a wonderful man named Silvano Agosti, whom I met in 2006. As I was looking at the movie posters in his window, he spoke to me and told me about La Dolce Vita, which he shows in English every Sunday at 5:00. pm. He is a passionate man. When I asked him if he himself "is a filmmaker", he said, "No, I am a human being." I guess he WORKS in films, which is different. When I told him I was a teacher, he said, "Oh, you are a murderer of the spirit!" I laughed, deciding to take his passionate expressions in stride. I guess he has strong views on proper ways to raise and educate children. The fact that I am a college teacher (instead of those mean old elementary and secondary teachers like my son, nieces, and nephews) did not seem to faze him or prompt him to let me off the hook. When I returned to view one of the two movies I saw at his cinema, he modified his "murderer" comment by saying, "You have a kind face." He gave me a book he had written. I guess he liked me, despite his seemingly harsh judgment. My encounter with Mr. Agosti and La Dolce Vita remain one of my fondest memories of the 2006 SAE trip. And so I have given myself the assignment to return this evening to view La Dolce Vita for the second time. I hope Mr. Agosti is there. I'll keep you posted. See you soon,

Monday night Evansville School Board has some items of interest.

I. Roll Call: Dennis Hatfield Kathi Swanson Eric Busse John Rasmussen Tina Rossmiller Sharon Skinner Nancy Hurley 2 min II. Approve Agenda. 1 min III. Presentation by Paragon Development Systems, Inc. (PDS) on Technology Audit. 15 min IV. Consent (Action Items) – A. Approval of September 24 Minutes. B. Approval of Open Enrollment Exceptions. C. Approval of Donations From: Sports Boosters and Baseball Youth of Evansville. 5 min V. Business (Action Item) – A. Approval of Process and Budget Impact of School Perceptions Survey. B. Approval of PDS Technology Audit and Costing. C. Approval of 2012-2013 Tax Levy Amount and Revised Budgets. D. Approval of Custodian Resignation. E. Approval of Part 1, Sec. 1-3 (All Employees-Preamble and Definitions, Employment Law and General Employment Practices and Expectations). 10 min VI. Budget Finance – Chair, Tina Rossmiller – A. Discussion Items: 1) Environmental Education Coordinator Position Proposal. 2) Third Friday Attendance/Open Enrollment/Home Schooled Student Reports. 3) 2012-2013 Budget Update. 4) Update on Evansville Education Foundation. 5) Insurance Committee Update. 6) Extra/Co-Curricular Committee Update. B. Develop Budget Finance Agenda Items for Novemb

OpEd; Recession Brings Decline in Service for Public Responders?

Traditionally in the insurance business, when there is a recession, folks drive less, and thus because auto rates are held even, there are less accidents and there is more profits for insurance companies...so they love it. In recession, say in Evansville, Wisconsin, here is what the Police Report for September 2012 says: "Evansville Police Report – There were 1006 calls for service for the month of August, 2012 compared to 1243 in July of 2011. We had 76 license plate transactions for the month of September." This is a 20% decline in service request from last year. So in reviewing the upcoming budget year, what is your call? Will there be a request for increased expenses or less? You make the call.

School Scoop: Spooky School Board Meeting on Monday October 29 a...

School Scoop: Spooky School Board Meeting on Monday October 29 a...: The ECSD will hold its monthly meetings of the whole on Monday October 29 at 6:30 PM. Click on the link below to view the agenda. Of most im...

Orfordville man dies in motorcycle accident -- GazetteXtra

Saturday, October 27, 2012

http://www.gazettextra.com/news/2012/oct/27/footville-man-faces-nine-criminal-charges/

Mailbag: Dr. Cooper Writes from Italy--on Earthquakes, and Study Abroad

Francesco Palmitessa awoke in his bed to the shaking of the earth and the collapsing of his house around him. His wife and daughter lay in bed beside him. When the terrible onslaught of falling walls and ceilings subsided, he discovered to that he was the only one left alive. Three hundred and nine people died that morning in L'Aquila, Italy, in the 6.3 magnitude earthquake that struck in 2009, mainly from being crushed by collapsing buildings. A physician, Dr. Palmitessa and his family had evacuated his house the night before, because they feared that an earthquake was imminent. Civil defense authorities, however, tried to reassure townspeople that, despite the warnings issued by scientists and the tremors beneath their feet, the risk of an actual earthquake at that time and place was low. People were told to go into their homes, have a glass of wine, and sleep in their beds. After the disaster, survivors like Dr. Palmitessa and, indeed, much of the public angrily demanded that those who failed to give adequate warning to victims be held responsible. Subsequently, charges were leveled, a trial was held, and on Monday, Oct. 22, the verdict was announced: seven Italian geologists and disaster experts were convicted of manslaughter and each sentenced to six years in prison. On Tuesday morning, Oct. 23, I arrived in Catania, Sicily, and was met at the airport by my student, Erin Peterson, and her mentor, Dr. Boris Behncke. I did not know it yet, but I soon learned I had landed at the epicenter of the international headlines shaking the geological and scientific world in the wake of Monday's verdict. For Dr. Behncke is a geologist at the Catania branch of the INGV, the National Institute for Geology and Volcanoes in Italy. One of his colleagues was among the seven convicted scientists. Dr. Behncke's job is to study and monitor the activity of Sicily's Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world and one that has erupted many times in the past, claiming many victims from the well-populated slopes, valleys, and plains below, including the city of Catania, where Boris and his wife Catherine live with their 7-year old daughter, Ita. Dr. Behncke greeted me cordially and bought me a coffee at the airport. He was obviously agitated and he came right to the point: I had arrived in the middle of a crisis at his institute, which he described to me in detail, including the story of Dr. Palmitessa (not his real name). He did not excuse the convicted scientists of downplaying the probability of the disaster, but he added that they had done so under pressure from political authorities and administrators who did not want to alarm the public of something that might not happen, or might not happen when and where it did. He agreed with my suggestion that the convicted scientists had been scapegoats. We discussed the whole problem of prediction of natural disaster prediction, which is based on probabilities and risk, rather than certainties. The next time Mount Vesuvius of Pompei fame erupts (and it will), geologists will know something is happening, but they won't know exactly when or where. What happens in the meantime - evacuate everyone from the Bay of Naples? When? To where? For how long? What if Vesuvius threatens to erupt for months? Hundreds of thousands of people will be temporarily housed elsewhere in Italy, in tents or camps, waiting, waiting? And even if that all works out perfectly, and Vesuvius erupts on schedule and destroys Naples, what do people come back to? Rubble from houses that were not built to withstand coinciding earthquakes? Houses that were built in the possible path of erupted lava, rocks, gas, etc.? The moral of the story is that prevention is much better than prediction. There is currently no good way to respond effectively to predictions of earthquakes and volcanoes. What we can do is prevent the consequences of these disasters from being so terrible. For example. we can build houses that are "quake-resistant". If Dr. Palmitessa's house had been built so, his wife and daughter might still be alive today. Incidentally, there is a column in the International Herald Tribune/New York Times today (Oct. 26) by Juliette Kayyem in which the significance of the convictions of the seven scientists is discussed. Interesting stuff, but I don't agree with much of what she writes. My student, Erin, is a majoring in Geology at UW-River Falls. She is spending two months studying volcanoes in Italy, including about one month with Dr. Behncke and his colleagues at the INGV. She is doing so in the Semester Abroad: Europe program (SAE) at UWRF. Although her subject is volcanoes, Erin is getting a much bigger and better education than she ever dreamed of. She is getting this education the only way possible - by being here (and doing a great job under the tutelage of her UWRF adviser, Dr. Ian Williams). This is one example of the tremendous experiences students can have when living and studying abroad. See you soon, Dennis

http://www.gazettextra.com/news/2012/oct/26/paster-discuss-health-reform/

http://www.gazettextra.com/news/2012/oct/26/are-parks-worth-price/

Is the current spending level on parks excessive? Check out the article in the Janesville Gazette that is relevant to the expenditure level in Evansville also.
http://www.gazettextra.com/news/2012/oct/26/are-parks-worth-price/

Friday, October 26, 2012

Agenda: School Board: Monday, Oct 29, 2012

EVANSVILLE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Board of Education Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, October 29, 2012 6:30 p.m. District Board and Training Center 640 S. Fifth Street Note, public notice of this meeting given by posting at the District Office, Levi Leonard Elementary School Office, Theodore Robinson Intermediate School Office, J.C. McKenna Middle School Office, High School Office, Evansville School District Web Site: www.evansville.k12.wi.us, and by forwarding the agenda to the Evansville Review, Union Bank & Trust and Eager Free Public Library. TIME I. Roll Call: Dennis Hatfield Kathi Swanson Eric Busse John Rasmussen Tina Rossmiller Sharon Skinner Nancy Hurley 2 min II. Approve Agenda. 1 min III. Presentation by Paragon Development Systems, Inc. (PDS) on Technology Audit. 15 min IV. Consent (Action Items) – A. Approval of September 24 Minutes. B. Approval of Open Enrollment Exceptions. C. Approval of Donations From: Sports Boosters and Baseball Youth of Evansville. 5 min V. Business (Action Item) – A. Approval of Process and Budget Impact of School Perceptions Survey. B. Approval of PDS Technology Audit and Costing. C. Approval of 2012-2013 Tax Levy Amount and Revised Budgets. D. Approval of Custodian Resignation. E. Approval of Part 1, Sec. 1-3 (All Employees-Preamble and Definitions, Employment Law and General Employment Practices and Expectations). 10 min VI. Budget Finance – Chair, Tina Rossmiller – A. Discussion Items: 1) Environmental Education Coordinator Position Proposal. 2) Third Friday Attendance/Open Enrollment/Home Schooled Student Reports. 3) 2012-2013 Budget Update. 4) Update on Evansville Education Foundation. 5) Insurance Committee Update. 6) Extra/Co-Curricular Committee Update. B. Develop Budget Finance Agenda Items for November 26 Meeting. 40 minVII. Policy – Chair, Nancy Hurley – A. Discussion of Policy Direction. B. First Reading of Policies: #141-Board Officers and #142-Legal Counsel and Outside Consultants (Board Consultants). C. Develop Policy Agenda Items for November 26 Meeting. 20 min VIII. Handbook Committee – Chair, Kathi Swanson/Jerry Roth – A. Employee Handbook Written Draft, Part 1, Sec. 4-8 (All EmployeesGrievance Procedures, Pay Periods, Compensation and Expense Reimbursement, and Sick Leave). B. Employee Handbook Outline, Part 1, Sec. 9-13 (All Employees-Jury Duty Leaves, Bereavement Leave, personal Leave, Uniformed and Service Leave). C. Introduction Letter for Employee Handbook. 60 min IX. Board Development – Chair, Kathi Swanson – A. Discuss Role of Board Treasurer. B. Discussion of Book, Becoming a Better Board Member. C. Develop Board Development Agenda Items for November 26 Meeting. 30 min X. Future Agenda – Chair, Kathi Swanson - A. Develop November 12 Regular Board Meeting Agenda. 5 min XI. Adjourn. Estimated Meeting End Time: 9:40 pm. Mission Statement: The Evansville Community School District, in active partnership with families and the community, will provide a positive learning environment that challenges all students to achieve personal excellence and become contributing citizens of the world community. Vision Statement: Creating a culture of excellence in: • Academic achievement • Character development • Pursuit of arts, athletics, and other activities • Community engagement • Highly effective staff This notice may be supplemented with additions to the agenda that come to the attention of the Board prior to the meeting. A final agenda will be posted and provided to the media no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting or no later than 2 hours prior to the meeting in the event of an emergency. Persons needing special accommodations or more specific information about agenda items should call 882-5224, ext. 3387 at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Posted: 10/25/12

Wireman: Key Points to Consider for Election

@PeggyWiremanOpEd CapTimesUS collapse if these workers you see everyday quit47%Need safety net http://www.ittybittyurl.com/gg @PeggyWireman@CollegeDems Romney supported approaches that would ban the pill & said states should be allowed to ban birth control #womensrights @PeggyWiremanWhich growing jobs don’t support a family? http://connectingdots.us/?page_id=10 #poverty @PeggyWireman@KatrinaNationRyan considers nursing aides, teacher assistants, childcare, retail workers “takers not makers.” http://www.ittybittyurl.com/g0f ‏@PeggyWireman#nunsonthebus Nuns are right to worry about Paul Ryan http://bit.ly/Myxpr5 Wisconsin State Journal. http://bit.ly @PeggyWireman@sr_simone The nuns’ bus tour has it right http://bit.ly/MjAsbf Cap Times (Madison, WI) June 20, 2012. Letter to the Editor

Artful Gourmet Grand Opening on November 3, 2012

Contact: Mary Rajek, Executive Director Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Office: 608.882.5131 // evansvillecoc@litewire.net The Artful Gourmet to Host Grand Opening Evansville, WI – The Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is proud to announce the Grand Opening celebration to be hosted at The Artful Gourmet on Saturday, November 3, 2012 from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM. The Artful Gourmet is located at 16 W. Main Street in downtown Evansville . They offer a unique, fun shopping experience – whether you are shopping for yourself or for a gift, The Artful Gourmet is the store for you. To celebrate their Grand Opening, they will offer special pricing throughout the store while serving food that highlights their products from Stonewall Kitchen, The Galena Garlic Company, The Pasta Shoppe and more! In addition, drawings to win gift baskets and gift certificates will be held every hour. For more information about the Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, or to join, contact the Chamber office at: 608-882-51531 / Evansvillecoc@litewire.net or visit their website: www.evansvillechamber.org. # # # Mary Rajek Executive Director, Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Phone: 608-882-5131 Email: evansvillecoc@litewire.net Web: www.evansvillechamber.org

Poll Watchers Needed

POLL WATCHERS NEED TO KEEP VOTING SAFE To volunteer, sign up here: https://my.barackobama.com/page/s/join-the-victory-counsel and a member of our team will get in contact with you. You can also contact Ethan Corson, Deputy Voter Protection Coordinator, at (608) 556-1302 or ecorson@ofawi.com. or contact league of women voters

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/26/are-parks-woth-price-janesville-council-looks-cost/

Thursday, October 25, 2012

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/opinion-matters/2012/oct/25/edgerton-posing-referendum/

Evansville Observer: Mailbag: Wireman: Info on Romney/Ryan Plans for M...

Evansville Observer: Mailbag: Wireman: Info on Romney/Ryan Plans for M...: GET INFO ON ROMNEY/RYAN PLANS FOR MEDICARE/MEDICAID The Stand Up For Medicare and Medicaid Ambulance Tour will be crisscrossing the state i...

Wireman: Dem Opportunities for Volunteer Work This weekend

HERE'S WHERE TO SIGN UP TO DO DOORS THIS WEEKEND http://my.barackobama.com/Take-Action-This-Weekend THEY WILL GIVE YOU A SCRIPT AND TRAINING. IF YOU HAVEN'T DONE THIS BEFORE IT'S NOT SCARY. THEY WILL SEND YOU TO PEOPLE LIKELY TO BE ON OUR SIDE NOT TO CONVINCE ANYBODY OTHER THAN TO MAKE SURE THEY KNOW WHERE TO VOTE AND GET THEM TO MAKE A PLAN TO DO SO. BESIDES, I DID IT LAST WEEK AND IT'S FUN AND YOU MAY HIT BEAUTIFUL FALLING LEAVES What: Weekend of action Meet at: 1616 Beld Street Madison, WI 53715 When: Saturday, October 27th Shifts start at 9:00 am and are available all day RSVP now Check out all the other events near you this Sat

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/25/fire-station-discussion-resumes/

Monday, October 22, 2012

Mailbag: Grassroots Action Opportunities re Democratic

Martha Plimpton: Singer, model and actress, (Good Wife and Goonies) Martha Plimpton will be at the OFA West Side Office, 1001 Fourier Dr., 11:00 am Tuesday morning. Please stop by to meet our special guest and Presidential supporter. https://www.facebook.com/events/454001307974292/ Saturday Oct. 27 Events: Both events will focus on recruiting volunteers for GOTV and promote early voting! o Canvass: Multiple shifts: 12:00 noon; 3:00 pm; 6:00 pm. Sign up by clicking on the following link: https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gstj3j o Phone Bank: Multiple shifts: 12:00 noon; 3:00 pm; 6:00 pm. Sign up by clicking on the following link: https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gstj3j Sunday Oct. 28 Events: Both events will focus on recruiting volunteers for GOTV and promote early voting! o Canvass: Multiple shifts: 12:00 noon; 3:00 pm; 6:00 pm. Sign up by clicking on the following link: https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gstwt2 o Phone bank: Multiple shifts: 12:00 noon; 3:00 pm; 6:00 pm. Sign up by clicking on the following link: https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/myevents GOTV Nov. 3-6: If you haven't committed to working at least one shift DO SO NOW! We will be doing canvassing and phone banking. There are multiple shifts each day. This election will be determined by which party can get their supporters out to the polls. Democrats hold the edge in registered voters BUT we sometimes choose to not vote. Do you want to wake up on Nov. 7 with Romney as our President? o Nov. 3, 4 and 5: 9:00 am, 12:00 noon; 3:00 pm; 6:00pm o Nov. 6 election day: 8:00 am, 11:00 am; 2:00 pm; 5:00 pm o Sign up by calling me at 435-669-3908 or e-mail me at poggrams1@mac.com. Don't wait now, is the time. -- Andy Bean 608.556.6737 abean@ofawi.com

FREE FUN Rally on Friday---Big Bird will Be there: And other characters: Costume Optional

SAVE BIG BIRD SAVE YOUR LIFE FREE RALLY Friday Oct. 26, 2012 6:30-9:30 pm Goodman Community Center Gym 149 Waubesa St. Madison, WI (near Olbrich Gardens) See “Save Big Bird Save Your Life” on Facebook Big Bird - Turkey Debate Art Shegonee says Pow Wow the Vote. Don't worry Big Bird we've got your back. We will teach you to fly with the eagles and leave the turkeys behind. For Everyone Who Has Been Working So Hard and Wants Fun and Comic Relief Music - Speakers - Comedy - Dancing Best Costume Prize (costume optional) Entertainment DJ • Forward Marching Band • Raging Grannies • Art Shegonee (Traditional Dancer) • The Elm Dance Stories Robin Transo - InHealth Community Wellness Free Clinic Rahul Dubey - Sikh Temple, Oak Creek, WI Employee - Sensata , Freeport, IL http://bainport.com/

Wireman: "Who is the 47%

Who will you see today who is part of the 47 percent? Child care workers, retail sales people, nursing aides, janitors, office clerks and teacher assistants all may be “takers” who need food stamps and other safety net programs. Fifty percent of the fastest growing jobs fall into 37 occupations. The median wages in 11 of them are so low a worker in a three-person family would qualify for food stamps. Presidential candidate Mitt Romney is concerned that he cannot convince the 47 percent who do not pay federal income taxes to “take personal responsibility and care for their lives.” Vice presidential candidate Paul Ryan is concerned about a “moral tipping point” and wants to “help them get jobs so they can get a good paycheck so they’re good taxpayers.” Millions now have jobs and are paying Social Security taxes, sales and other taxes. But they do not get a good paycheck. Wider Opportunities for Women developed a self-sufficiency standard that enables a family to live without depending on government programs or charity. It provides funds for basic needs: food, health care, child care, and a car for commuting to work and one shopping trip a week. No funds are budgeted for retirement, entertainment or ANY food prepared outside the home. This budget is about twice that in the federal poverty guidelines. To get a full picture of workers’ situations, it is necessary to look at the extent and range of jobs that fail to provide livable salaries. The nation’s second-fastest-growing occupation is retail salesperson. The minimum wage does not support even the worker at the self-sufficiency standard, $21,600 or $10.40 an hour for one person in 2010. Other jobs that fail to provide even the worker a self-sufficiency wage are: child care workers, cashiers, personal care and home-health aides, and those who both prepare and serve food, including fast food. People making enough to support themselves but no one else are janitors and cleaners, teacher assistants, landscaping workers, laborers, security guards, nursing aides, orderlies, receptionists, office clerks and medical assistants. To support a spouse or a child, but not both, requires $29,100 or $14 an hour. This means construction laborers, medical secretaries, accounting and auditing clerks, maintenance and repair workers, and first-line supervisors of retail sales workers. To support a three-person family, a worker needs to make $36,600 or almost $18 an hour. How do these workers survive? Many receive the Earned Income Tax Credit, which sends families money to supplement their low wages. This is one of the programs likely to be cut in Republican tax plans. Many manage by having both parents work, possible because they get subsidized child care and a child care deduction on their federal income taxes. Both may be cut along with food stamps. As Romney said, if someone has a heart attack, we do provide for them in the emergency room. By law, the emergency room must treat them. But they are not required to provide the follow-up care that may be needed. Millions now obtain it through Medicare or Medicaid, both likely to be changed under Republican approaches. Republican candidates are concerned that these everyday workers feel like victims and that using government programs will foster dependency. I find these workers competent, helpful and cheerful. However, while they may not feel like victims, they have been victimized by the shift in the wage structure over recent decades. After World War II productivity doubled, and wages doubled. Since the 1970s, productivity has continued to rise but two-thirds of the increase in profits has gone to CEOs and the stock market. Eighty percent of American workers are in manufacturing or nonsupervisory service jobs. Their wages have remained flat or even gone down for decades. Business owners have lowered wages by outsourcing jobs and by using threats to pressure workers to accept lower salaries. Wages have also suffered from the decline of labor unions pushing for higher wages and benefits and the failure of Congress to adjust the minimum wage to keep up with inflation. The minimum wage was at its highest in 1968. If the current $7.25 was corrected for inflation, it would be $10.55. That’s an extra $6,000 a year, a fortune for someone making $15,000. Contrary to many views, minimum wage workers are not primarily young people making spending money but adults supporting families or supplementing the family budget. When he was governor, Romney vetoed an increase in the Massachusetts minimum wage to $8 an hour. Ryan wants to cut government programs “to ensure that America’s safety net does not become a hammock that lulls able-bodied citizens into lives of complacency and dependency.” Just remember the next time someone hands you a hamburger or helps you in a store that they are struggling, not because of a low wage, but because they have to reach up from their hammock. Peggy Wireman, Monona, holds a doctorate in sociology and consults on community and economic development. She blogs at http://connectingdots.us/?page_id=2 connectingdots.us/. Follow her on Twitter @PeggyWireman. Read more: http://host.madison.com/news/opinion/column/peggy-wireman-low-wages-keep-many-hard-workers-in-the/article_f309c666-1a28-11e2-8264-0019bb2963f4.html#ixzz2A2Gfmuby

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Janesville School Board eyes reserves to balance budget -- GazetteXtra

WIREMAN on Blog Talk Radio Today:

I WILL BE ON COFFEE PARTY RADIO THIS SUNDAY AND HAVE GOOD STUFF IN THEIR NEWSLETTER. IT IS A CALL-IN SHOW 4 TO 5:30 CENTRAL TIME SO I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOU CALL IN USE LINK ON YOUR COMPUTER BELOW OR 646 929 2495 URL address to get to Sunday, October 21 show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/coffeepartyusa/2012/10/21/the-bottom-line-with-jessica-english-sundays-at-5-pm-et. CHECK MY ARTICLES Here is the URL for the online newsletter: http://www.scoop.it/t/the-bottom-line. ©2012 Wireman & Associates | 4001 Monona Dr, Madison WI 53717

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Mailbag: Wireman: Monday Watch Party: Fountain Bar, Madison, Wi

MONDAY WATCH PARTY WHAT: Presidential Debate Watch Party, Special Live Broadcast of The People's Mic with Doug Cunningham WHERE: The Fountain Bar and Restaurant, Back Bar, 122 State Street, Madison, WI 53703 WHEN: Monday October 22, 2012. Doors open at 4:30 PM, The People's Mic goes LIVE 5PM-6PM, and the Debate starts at 8PM. FOOD: Hors d'oevres, cash bar, regular menu available. SPONSORS: People For the American Way, Equality Wisconsin Progressives at a debate watch party at The Fountain Bar and Restaurant, 122 State Street, Madison, WI 53703, on Monday night. Our special guest, Doug Cunningham, from The People's Mic with Doug Cunningham on The Mic 92.1 WXXM-FM will do his radio talk show live from The Fountain from 5PM-6PM before the party. Then we'll gather round the big screen at The Fountain to witness this last historic debate between the President and Mr. Romney. The Fountain will provide a huge spread for everyone in attendance, there will be a cash bar, and the regular menu will also be available during the event. After his show, and before the debate, Doug Cunningham will do a Q&A about his show, today's political environment, and answer any other questions you may have for him prior to the debate. People For the American Way and Equality Wisconsin are primary sponsors of this fun Progressive gathering.

Friday, October 19, 2012

http://www.gazettextra.com/news/2012/oct/19/chief-wants-felony-owi-arrestees-monitored-alcohol/

Vinehout: WEDC Hid Lost Loans from Audit Committee

WEDC Hid Lost Loans from Audit Committee Paul Jadin, the head of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), was surprisingly agreeable when he appeared before my colleagues and me at the recent hearing of the Joint Committee on Audit. He was surprisingly agreeable; but less than forthcoming. Mr. Jadin never mentioned that the state’s lead economic development agency had lost track of $8 million in delinquent loans. He never mentioned the problem even as he answered Legislators’ questions about the failures of WEDC’s own oversight processes. Following the lengthy hearing, a reporter received a tip about the lost delinquent loans. The next day I learned the rest of the story. State officials failed to track millions in loans that were delinquent by more than 30 days. These loans amounted to 16% of WEDC’s loan portfolio of $51 million. This failure to track loans extended over the past 16 months. The information was first reported by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Capitol reporter Jason Stein who attended portions of the hearing. As I chaired the hearing, I quizzed Mr. Jadin on problems with late reports and the skipping of key process management steps like underwriting loans. Committee members engaged in a lengthy discussion about recouping payments and overseeing businesses that failed to deliver promised jobs or meet contract terms. Mr. Jadin agreed to improve transparency, to tighten reporting and subject all management staff to state ethics laws. He agreed to nearly every change requested. We concluded the hearing with directions to draft legislation codifying changes agreed to by Mr. Jadin. But he failed to make any mention of the lost delinquent loans. In conversations with those close to WEDC, I learned the lost loans were likely ‘discovered’, in preparation for forthcoming audits: first, an independent firm recently hired by WEDC and second, the Legislative Audit Bureau. Later, Ryan Murray, WEDC chief operating officer, told reporters Mr. Jadin didn’t discuss the issue because he wanted to notify the board first. But the board met twice in just the past few weeks. Board members could also be called at home or come into emergency session; none appeared to have happened. Mr. Jadin had an obligation to inform the Legislature when he was asked to explain work to remedy serious problems of oversight and accountability. Dishonesty is not only about what you say. It is about what you don’t say. Hiding bad news is becoming a pattern for WEDC. Just a few weeks ago the Secretary of Administration apologized to Board members when, for over a year and a half, he failed to disclose a federal inquiry into the awarding of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grants. WEDC apparently gave out more than $9 million without legal authority to do so. The dishonesty began in the very creation of WEDC. The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, despite its name, it is not a corporation. It is an arm of state government, run with taxpayer funds and revenue from loans made with taxpayer money. Organized as an “authority”, WEDC is one of the most independent parts of state government. Despite its independence, the agency dispenses public money and is subject to Legislative oversight. As Chair of the Audit Committee, at the conclusion of Mr. Jadin’s testimony I made very clear his obligation and our expectations. “Because public dollars are at risk we need information at the program level of your operation to determine the effectiveness and the outcome of every program you administer,” I told Mr. Jadin. I anticipate the Audit Bureau’s work will provide us with key information about WEDC’s structure, operations and program results. Auditors will examine the failure of “internal controls” - those systems that should be in place to catch errors of omission like lost delinquent loans. But the error of omission that concerns me the most is the lack in honesty in official testimony before the Legislature. I expect WEDC staff and board members to cooperate fully and ensure the Audit Bureau receives any information the State Auditor needs to complete its work.

FREE RALLY:: Save Big Bird Save Your life Free Rally

Anniversary of 1986 Stock Market Crash Noted

This morning on all the business talk shows, memories are being shared about the stock market crash of 1986. I well remember it because I was a broker during the crash. Lets compare and contrast. One of the things I remember on that day, is how much i wish that I had some "hedge" for all the conservative investments that my clients had...and since I was located in the rust belt, middle USA, where most were God fearing and risk averse, there were few clients if any that had even thought of a hedge. There were no bear hedge ETF funds. Few knew of the options uses for hedging. In short...there was just fear available. Now lets flip forward to today. As a conservative investor has your broker advised or recommended any hedge against a crash for your investments? Make a note of it.

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/19/evansville-woman-wins-1-million-iowa-lottery-prize/

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Mailbag: Wireman: Info on Romney/Ryan Plans for Medicare/Medicaid: Note Janesville Oct 31st

GET INFO ON ROMNEY/RYAN PLANS FOR MEDICARE/MEDICAID The Stand Up For Medicare and Medicaid Ambulance Tour will be crisscrossing the state in the days leading up to November 6 Election to raise awareness of Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan’s scary plans for healthcare. Join us at an event near you! Ambulance Tour Schedule: WI AFL-CIO • 1:00 pm, Monday, October 22, Green Bay Labor Temple, 1570 Elizabeth Street • 6:00pm, Wednesday, October 24, La Crosse Hmong Cultural Center, 1815 Ward Street • Noon, Thursday, October 25, Bray Center, 924 Center Street, Racine • 5:30pm, Friday, October 26, Wausau Labor Temple, 318 S. 3rd Ave • TBA, Wednesday, October 31, Paul Ryan District Office, 20 S. Main Street #10, Janesville These family-friendly events are designed to draw public attention to and educate voters on the harmful Romney/Ryan healthcare plan. Bring your friends and family to learn about the consequences of the Romney/Ryan plot to gut healthcare.

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/18/janesville-city-council-consider-cuts/

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/18/wisconsin-based-trek-drops-support-armstrong/

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/17/allstate-plan-cut-214-jobs-cross-plains/

New Businesses Welcomed to Evansville

Studio Repeats and The Artful Gourmet are Welcomed to Downtown Evansville Evansville, WI – The Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism was proud to welcome Studio Repeats and The Artful Gourmet to downtown Evansville with a Ribbon Cutting and open-house style Business After 5:00 networking event on October 11th. Studio Repeats has been selling “up-cycled” antiques and unique décor in Evansville since early this year. Their recent move to a new downtown location, 11 W. Main Street , prompted the Welcome Event. Sue Farnsworth, owner, is a seasoned business owner, and is excited to bring this type of shopping experience back into Evansville ’s downtown. The Artful Gourmet is a new business venture for owners Sue and Duane Nettum. Located at 16 West Main Street , this unique store is full of specialty and regional foods, including gluten free products. In fact, The Artful Gourmet is proud to announce that they will soon carry a variety of products from Galena Garlic Company. In addition to specialty foods, The Artful Gourmet is your local resource for beautiful kitchen accessories gadgets. Mary Rajek, Chamber Director said, “I am so pleased that specialty retail stores continue to call downtown Evansville home. These unique stores compliment our existing retailers, and enhance the quality of life as well as visitor experience here in Evansville .” For more information about the Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, or to join, contact the Chamber office at: 608-882-51531 / Evansvillecoc@litewire.net or visit their website: www.evansvillechamber.org.

Face to face: Obama, Romney in crackling debate -- GazetteXtra

Sing Along Anyone?

JOIN THE ‘LONGEST CONTINUOUSLY RUNNING SINGING PROTEST IN HISTORY’! The 500th Wisconsin Solidarity Sing Along Noon, Saturday, November 3, 2012 Featuring….You!! Share the songs—and the calls for justice—by convening your own Town Square Sing Along in your own community as part of the Statewide Town Square Sing Along 500, at noon on Saturday November 3, 2012. To hold a sing along, gather up some fellow citizens and try this: · Pick a great, safe spot in your town where you’ll draw public attention, ideally the center of the town square. · Find at least nine friends to sing with you (900 would be even better.) Musical instruments are encouraged! Have a look at Arlo joining us: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eytdYyO6Aeg · Visit the Wisconsin Network for Peace and Justice website, where you’ll find 24 familiar songs, many with Wisconsin-adjusted lyrics. Copy the pages and distribute widely! http://www.wnpj.org/sites/default/files/pdf/WNPJ-labor-songbook_24songs.pdf · At high noon, Saturday November 3, start by singing This Land is Your Land--Wisconsin Version. Sing whatever moves you for a while (we recommend including We Shall Overcome) and end with Solidarity Forever! (to the Tune of the Battle Hymn of the Republic.) · If possible, have someone videotape your sing along, and send it to us later that day. We’ll send you a special “Dropbox” account address that day. Within 24 hours, we will create a video quilt with videos from around the state to be shared at the big 500th Solidarity Sing Along party in Madison on November 5. You’re invited to that, too! Questions? Contact Jonathan & Sally, at jdrlabor@aol.com to let us know your community will be participating. And post on the new Facebook page (and if you haven’t joined, give it a try): https://www.facebook.com/events/128827410597822/

The cost of falls keeps adding up for seniors -- GazetteXtra

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

http://www.gazettextra.com/news/2012/oct/16/sheriffs-office-using-nixle-communicate/

Monday, October 15, 2012

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/15/majority-wis-school-districts-lose-aid/

Saturday, October 13, 2012

Overture Center features "Timeless Visions";; Digital Photography by women photographers

If you are strolling by the Overture Center in Madison, stop in and browse in the Photo Gallery in the hallway to the Main Hall. Very interesting and high quality black and white framed photography by women artists of Madison. There are three of these galleries in the Overture, and they will be up till December 9,2012. Yes you can buy these items, and the prices are on them...check it out.

Mailbag: Friends of the Library Annual Meeting Coming: Dues Change: Party

Hello Friends, This is to remind you of the Friends' Party and Annual Meeting coming in just a few days. Please join us at 5:30 for the gathering, which will feature live music by local musicians, snax, recognition of the 2012 Friend of the Year for EFEPL, general conviviality, election of officers, votes on changes to our constitution and bylaws & other miscellany. We expect to conclude all these items by 7:30 or so. NOTE: One feature of the Annual Meeting will be a proposed change in the Dues Structure of the Friends. We're proposing raising the dues, which haven't changed for over 15 years. Assuming these changes are approved by the membership voting at the meeting, annual memberships and lifetime membership dues will approximately double. NOW IS A GOOD TIME TO RE-NEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP OR CONVERT TO AN ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP. We will renew your membership at current rates until midnight this coming Tuesday! Be sure to communicate with Jim Cunningham, our membership chair, (casia2@att.net) before that deadline. -- Fred Juergens, President Friends of the Eager Free Public Library 608-882-2489

http://www.gazettextra.com/news/2012/oct/12/ryan-asked-federal-help-he-championed-cuts/

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/12/dane-county-will-get-six-commercial-wind-turbines/

Friday, October 12, 2012

Janesville police chief warns against cutting officers -- GazetteXtra

Wireman: Monday: Fundraiser for Tammy with Music

MONDAY David Newby & Kathleen McElroy invite you to celebrate their 70th birthdays with a fundraiser in support of Tammy Baldwin Monday, October 15th - 5:00PM - 6:30 PM prior to the monthly meeting of the South Central Federation of Labor Madison Labor Temple - 1602 South Park Street plenty of parking behind the buildling) Cake - Beer - Food Music by Karlos Moser with the "Win with Tammy Trio" No birthday gifts please... Just donations to Tammy's pathbreaking campaign in amounts that include 7's: $70 - $17 - $47 - $177 - $700 - $1700 Online donations can be given at: wi.tammybaldwin.com/Newby Short program at 5:45 - by special invitation the MC will be Ben SidranMusician, Author, Teacher ©2012 Wireman & Associates | 4001 Monona Dr, Madison WI 53717

Mailbag: Wireman: Sunday Concert For Tammy

SUNDAY CONCERT FOR TAMMY Tammy BaldwinU.S. Senate candidate for an afternoon of music Featuring a Live Performance by The Whiskey Farm Sunday, October 14The High Noon Saloon 701 East Washington AveMadison, WI 3:30 – 5:00 pm Doors open at 3:00 Guests: $25 (OR WHATEVER YOU CAN MY WORDS) Sponorships start at $150

Thursday, October 11, 2012

http://www.gazettextra.com/news/2012/oct/11/janesville-police-chief-warns-against-cutting-offi/

Vinehout: "Creating a Culture of Civility"

Creating a Culture of Civility “Sure the economy is a concern,” said the woman at the door. “But what I want is for all of you to get along. Can’t you learn how to compromise?” Over and again I hear people asking politicians to get along and get things done. In the world of politics there is a culture of competition where winning at all cost is what’s most important. While this might work for the NFL, it’s not an effective way to run state government. There is a price to pay in a culture where winner takes all. Sometimes the vanquished becomes the victor and the tables are turned. The result is a seesawing of proposals and laws that conflict with each other. The obvious example is the recent court decision overturning Act 10, but other examples abound. People say they want leaders to compromise, but voters often reward elected leaders who do not. Especially lately, people elected some leaders who act in very uncompromising ways. Some of this action can be traced to the will of interest groups. My colleagues and I face groups from all sides. These groups are a part of the political process. They represent and gather money from people in our neighborhoods; doctors, farmers, business owners, all have interests to pursue in state politics. Other groups gather extensive resources from outside our state. The leaders of the organizations know the way to keep their organization going is to ‘win’ the game by bringing back to their members legislation they want passed. Woe to the lawmaker who reads the bill and says, “I’d like to make some changes,” or worse yet, writes his or her own bill on the topic. Lawmakers who successfully change a bill to reflect concerns brought by others are accused of “watering down” the bill. Interest groups work hard to get their members to contact the lawmaker to remove the offending amendment. This is part of our political process. The push and pull that takes place in the rowdy world of the statehouse will always happen. But what’s changed is the number of lawmakers who seem unwilling to compromise. Too seldom will lawmakers bring all sides to the table to sort out the details of how to make permanent change through compromise. There are leaders on both sides of the aisle who do act to find solutions that benefit all the public’s interest. Many demonize these leaders. Sometimes the attacks are not on the substance of policy but are personal. For a thousand years leaders and public figures have been the target of jest and humiliation. What’s changed is how quickly we sit down at a computer and fire off an email with the intensity of language we would never use in person. This happened recently to anchor Jennifer Livingston of WKBT-TV in La Crosse. Jennifer used a biting personal attack as a teachable moment and took to the air to decry cyber-bullying and encourage youth of all stripes to gain confidence to stand up to bullies. She received international attention because of her courage. Ms. Livingston’s response teaches all of us there is a better way to express ourselves. There is a level of respect all must maintain, even in the criticism of others. Those of us in the political world would be wise to heed her advice. Every one of us has a responsibility to help create a culture of civility. I receive a postcard regularly from a man in Milwaukee. I don’t know his name because he never signs it. But for a year and a half, he sent postcards, sometimes several per week, to my office and my home. The message on the postcard is always demeaning and often personal. To him I say, “Your words are cruel and unnecessary. They contribute to the very culture you despise. Please stop.” To the rest of our world I say, honor each other despite our differences. Every one of us can create a world in which we respect each other. Then maybe we can offer support even to the politician who works to bring compromise to the table. If you know someone who would like to be added to this distribution list, please let us know. If you wish to unsubscribe from this newsletter, reply with "Unsubscribe" in the subject line

Mailbag: The Nuns' bus tour has it right

Peggy Wireman: The nuns’ bus tour has it right http://host.madison.com/ct/news/opinion/mailbag/peggy-wireman-the-nuns-bus-tour-has-it-right/article_8884e523-0e0f-5b0f-8912-02e4b53b1dab.html http://bit.ly/MjAsbf POSTED: From the Cap Times (Madison, WI) June 20, 2012. Letter to the Editor http://bit.ly/MjAsbf Peggy Wireman: Nuns are right to worry about Paul Ryan budget http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/opinion/mailbag/peggy-wireman-nuns-are-right-to-worry-about-paul-ryan/article_4aa3f0f8-ba0d-11e1-952a-001a4bcf887a.html http://bit.ly/Myxpr5 POSTED: June 19, 2012 Letter to the Editor in the Wisconsin State Journal. http://bit.ly/Myxpr5

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/11/home-heat-will-cost-more-winter/

League of Women Voters Needs Volunteers

League of Women Voters wants volunteers--- Volunteers can sign up online at: This is the correct link to the League of Women Voter's poll observer volunteer form http://www.lwvwi.org/VotingElections/Fall2012ElectionObserverVolunteerForm.aspx The League is seeking volunteers to be our eyes and ears at the polls. You don't have to be a League member to volunteer. We will train you, assign a polling place and provide a number to call on Election Day to report problems. We will be partnering with Wisconsin Election Protection, which will have lawyers trained in state election law on-call to provide legal assistance. The League will provide a packet of materials, including a reporting form and stamped return envelope. The League has shared its report from past elections with state and local election officials, who have expressed gratitude and used the information to improve election procedures. They appreciate the fact that our report comes from a nonpartisan organization which does not have a stake in the outcome of the election. We just want to ensure that it is fair.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

TONIGHT: As Goes Janesville Screening

Tonight: As Goes Janesville Screening As Goes Janesville is the story of how the city struggles to recover and reinvent itself after the loss of its century-old General Motors plant. Two screenings are scheduled in Madison: Wed., Oct. 10, at 7 pm at the Marquee Theater in Union South, 227 N. Randall Ave in Madison. Discussion afterward includes former UAW Local 95 President Mike Sheridan. This screening is part of the UW Havens Center’s Social Cinema film series. Sat. Oct. 20, at 1 pm at the Sequoya Branch Library, 4340 Tokay Blvd in Madison

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/10/milton-buy-former-dean-medical-building-300000/

Paul Ryan Truthfest: Thursday--features "Ryan Economics"

Ryan has had quite a problem telling the truth, and the citizens of his hometown of Janesville aren't about to let him get away with it this time. Come to the Paul Ryan Truth Fest in Janesville, make sure the media doesn't let him spin his way out of the debate. What: Paul Ryan Truth Fest Where: Court Park, 79 S. Main St., Janesville When: 3-6PM, Thursday, Oct. 11 Who: Citizens interested in the truth about "Ryan Economics" Bring the kids! We'll bob for apples, have some fun, and get the TRUTH out about Paul Ryan to the media and the world.

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/10/janesville-school-board-hears-information-options-/

Tuesday, October 09, 2012

"Angel Investors" on agenda at I&E Meeting, October 10th Evansville Creekside

I&E Club Speaker Talks About Angel Investors, More Oct. 10 It’s the business you’ve always wanted, and it’s starting to grow. Your family has invested as much as possible, so now where do you go for more capital? Guest speaker Ken Johnson will talk about what investors look for and more at the monthly meeting of the Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club. The group meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 10, at Creekside Place, the senior and community center at 102 Maple St., Evansville. The meeting is free and open to the public. Johnson is a venture capital fund manager, and former entrepreneur and angel investor. He is the managing director of the Wisconsin-based Kegonsa Seed Fund. After Johnson’s presentation, there will be time for networking and refreshments, sponsored this month by Allen E. DeWitt, financial advisor with Edward Jones in Evansville at 16 S. Madison St For more information about I&E Club, contact Sue Berg at 608-882-0986 or suebergsolutions@gmail.com.

Saturday, October 06, 2012

Park Board Meets Monday; Pool Leak on Agenda

City of Evansville, Wisconsin Park & Recreation Board Regular Monthly Meeting Evansville, City Hall Monday, October 8th, 2012 – 6:00pm AGENDA 1. Call to Order & Roll Call 2. Motion to approve Agenda as printed 3. Motion to waive the reading of the Sept 10th, 2012 minutes & approve them as printed 4. Citizen appearances, relating to Park & Recreation, not listed agenda items 5. Lakeshore Restoration 6. West Side Park, bathroom & shelter Update 7. Aquatic Report a. Discussion on future needs relating to budget b. Update on pool leak/repair 9. Chair's report from other Committees/Common Council a. Discussion on 2013 Budget 10. Reports/Updates on projects or Maintenance 11. Old Business 12. New Business a. discussion on landscaping @ Baker Bldg/Antes Cabin area 13. Motion to adjourn Next meeting Monday, November 12th 2012 - 6:00 pm, City Hall

Friday, October 05, 2012

October 7th: Democrats and Progressives Fund Raiser

DEMOCRATS & PROGRESSIVES FUND RAISER SUNDAY OCTOBER 7TH LAKE WISCONSIN COUNTRY CLUB 5:30 to 9:00 N1076 Golf Rd Prairie Du Sac www.wisconsingrassroots.net For more information contact Nate Timm (608) 220-0139 Music, Speakers, Food, and Fun Wisconsin Grassroots Network is an all volunteer organization. Volunteer or financial contributions will support: · Campaign organizing and training · Campaign signage · Campaign messaging · Election integrity Donations: Wisconsin Grassroots Network 314 Meadow Lane Mazomanie, WI 53560 Or Wisconsingrassroots.net For more information or to get involved go to: Wisconsingrassroots.net WIGrassrootsNetwork@gmail.com Nate Timm (608) 220-0139

Help Obama Saturday

SATURDAY HELP OBAMA MORNING ON WEST SIDE Workers' Voice Canvass in Madison WHERE: Madison Labor Temple, 602 S. Park St, Madison 53715 WHEN: Saturday, October 6 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Can you make it? AFTERNOON ON EAST SIDE : Canvass in Madison Where: 145 Farrell St Madison, WI 53714 When: Saturday, October 6th 12:00 pm RSVP now Many of you have helped to build the foundation of our grassroots movement -- from making phone calls to knocking on doors to cooking food for some hungry volunteers. The work we all do together between now and Election Day is going to make all the difference. This election is about you -- your vote, your voice -- so make sure you're doing everything you can to make it count. I'm confident that come November, we'll be back on Bascom Hill, celebrating again. Sign up to volunteer this Saturday and become a part of the action: http://wi.barackobama.com/Canvass-in-Wisconsin Together we can win Wisconsin.

OpEd; The Magic of the Bald Faced Lie

When asked what he thought of the performance of Clint Eastwood at the Republican Convention, Pres. Obama just said, "I just love Clint Eastwood." After listening to Mitt Romney talk about how he could have delivered an agreement on "clean coal.", President Obama paused and said, " I just love clean coal." After decades of obstructing by the coal companies in facing the increased costs of scrubbers to meet clean air standards, the assertion by Mitt Romney that he could have magically produced clean coal is absurd. Remember the concern about mercury? Many children in Evansville Schools participated in the worldwide "Mercury conference" in Madison, Wisconsin many years ago. It is far easier to imagine a President Romney eliminating or failing to enforce clean air standards so that coal can be used regardless of the health impact on Americans. Thus when faced with the enormity of the statement by Romney, I think Pres. Obama was being too cryptic in his response---next time he should go after line and verse in the battle for clean coal. Ditto on healthcare. Anybody out there think insurance companies can reduce the cost of healthcare? Anybody think car insurance has reduced the cost of cars? Any of you seniors think the cost of healthcare has been reduced by the magic of the supplemental health policy? If you think private insurance can solve the current health crisis, you need counseling. The enormity of the bald faced lies of Mitt Romney -------next debate will be different.

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/04/after-debate-obama-campaign-signals-adjustments/

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/05/reporters-question-us-senate-candidate-thompson/

http://www.gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/oct/05/medicare-penalties-wont-hit-countys-hospitals/

Thursday, October 04, 2012

Madison, Wis Prepares for Pres Obama

"Professors say Obama rally requires registration" by Latest News -- GazetteXtra

Wednesday, October 03, 2012

Cullen: Misinformation considered root cause for previous mining bill's failure -- GazetteXtra

Baby bust continues: US births down for 4th year -- GazetteXtra

Kathleen Vinehout Writes: "Hold WEDC Leadership Accountable"

Hold WEDC Leadership Accountable Recent actions suggest trouble at the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). WEDC was created as a ‘nimble corporation’ that would streamline the process of investing public money in businesses for job creation. It turns out federal officials say oversight was too loose; perhaps as much as $9.6 million in Community Block Grant Funds were given away without proper legal authority. WEDC is responsible for coordinating all of the state’s economic development programs. As such, WEDC oversees hundreds of millions of dollars in grants, loans and tax credits given to companies for job creation. In concerns stretching back over a year and half, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) raised serious questions about WEDC’s legal authority to give out funds. Despite federal concerns, WEDC continued to award job creation grants. The federal inquiry was withheld by state officials from WEDC board members and was only recently made public. The apparent cover-up of the HUD inquiry raised the ire of WEDC board members, one of who threatened to resign in a letter to the governor. "It is unconscionable that the WEDC staff would consider this issue not important enough to share with the board at the June meeting, let alone last week's meeting," wrote board member Paul Radspinner, president of FluGen, Inc. in a letter made public by the Wisconsin State Journal. Mr Radspinner continued, "If the WEDC leadership is not held accountable to proactively keep the board informed in a timely manner on issues affecting the future of this corporation and its reputation, then I cannot fulfill my fiduciary responsibilities nor can I continue to serve as a member of the board." At the same time, in apparently separate actions, WEDC Executive Director resigned effective November 1st. And, board members refused to accept the WEDC annual report detailing the state’s economic development programs. This extensive report is a requirement of the Legislature to be delivered to the Joint Committee on Audit, which I Co-Chair. All this activity comes on the heels of a Legislative Audit Bureau report that showed taxpayers invested in over 100 separate economic development programs. But not all state agencies were tracking the accomplishments of all companies that received grants, loans and tax credits. Part of the delayed report was to demonstrate sufficient state oversight of these programs. A serious lack of oversight exists. This administration inherited a system in which almost 90% of the state’s 139 economic development programs did not report both the expected and the actual number of jobs created. The Governor promised a nimble response to businesses seeking state assistance. Legislators and the public expected WEDC to improve oversight and compliance with federal and state law. One concern raised by both the audit and HUD was whether companies that received job creation money actually created jobs. An example raised by HUD was a printing company given half a million dollars to create jobs and nine weeks later laid-off 20 employees. The company eventually declared bankruptcy and the state never recovered the money. In other cases, companies were not properly evaluated or ‘underwritten’ to determine their financial soundness and to verify the project details. WEDC officials did not follow standard rules related to cost per job created and the ‘forgiveness’ of loans. Not following established rules raises questions of one company receiving special treatment over another similarly well-deserving company. The HUD letter stated, “The inconsistent application of established guidelines is a questionable practice”. If rules are not consistently followed this “can lead to accusations of preferential treatment and potential legal action.” Poor accounting practices and internal controls were other problems cited by HUD. Specifically on the last business day of 2011 an unnamed financial controller, on his last day on the job, removed $8.6 million from an account without proper authority. The feds say this was allowed to happen because the state did not provide proper oversight of WEDC. I and other Audit Committee members will investigate these questions in a special hearing of the Joint Committee on Audit scheduled for 10 a.m. on October 17th. The Madison hearing is open to the public and broadcast on Wisconsin Eye. If you know someone who would like to be added to this distribution list, please let us know. If you wish to unsubscribe from this newsletter, reply with "Unsubscribe" in the subject line Sen.Vinehout@legis.wisconsin.gov State Capitol Room 316 South - P.O. Box 7882, Madison, WI 53707-7882 Toll Free: (877) 763-6636 or (608) 267-2871"Hold

Pres Obama's Visit to Madison: Crowds; Closed Roads etc Parking info

Big crowds, closed roads expected for Obama's Thursday rally Read more: http://host.madison.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/big-crowds-closed-roads-expected-for-obama-s-thursday-rally/article_14328ed0-0bca-11e2-be3e-0019bb2963f4.html#ixzz289I3WWQj Parking Information: http://www.cityofmadison.com/news/view.cfm?news_id=3467 Metro detours: http://www.cityofmadison.com/news/view.cfm?news_id=3468 PLEASE NOTE: "People can expect significant delays in the isthmus area on Thursday," said police spokesman Joel DeSpain. Police don't yet know which roads will be closed for the event on Bascom Hill. Gates will open at noon with the president expected to speak in the afternoon.

OpEd; Americans DO remember

What are investors telling us on Wall Street? Investors are in CASH. The machines are in equities. The regular citizen has been barraged by media pundits telling them that they must take their life savings and at a time they face retirement, that they should invest in equities. Seniors are not buying it. They are in CASH. What does that tell you and what does that mean for the Presidential election? America does remember the crash of Lehman in 2008. They do remember the white faced President Bush and Secretary of Treasury Paulson speaking on the imminent crisis they faced and the prospects of a complete financial meltdown. So guess what? Americans do not want to go back. They remember. The election is over. Their memory has served the people well.

"Some campuses see enrollment decline" by Latest News -- GazetteXtra

Tuesday, October 02, 2012

Via Twitter: Eager Library; Celebrate Banned books Week tomorrow:

Stop by the library on Oct. 3rd at 5:00pm to celebate Banned Books Week! Read a frequently challenged book and come in to discuss it.

July 2012: City Administrator gives A short history of ReOrganizations

(Ed.note: This is a recent article from July 2012 of the Evansville City Administrator, Dan Wietecha.) The city government as an organization needs to be both effective and efficient. We need to be effective – from the citizen’s point of view – in providing quality service. We need to be efficient in the process – whether it means eliminating unnecessary paperwork, time and delay, costs, etc. We need to maximize the value of our performance. 2007 ReOrganization When then City Clerk/Treasurer Jim Bielke resigned five years ago, we used the vacancy as an opportunity to reorganize the city’s financial offices. The Clerk and Treasurer positions each have certain legally required duties. In general, the Clerk has custody of and responsibility for city papers including ordinances, resolutions, contracts, and meeting minutes. In general, the Treasurer has responsibility for the city’s general fund including property taxes, collection of fees, and accounting for receipts and disbursements. Since 1952, the City of Evansville had treated the two offices as combined and had maintained the appointment of an individual to both offices. We also had a Finance Director. This position evolved out of the longtime Financial Director position that oversaw the accounts and finances of the Water & Light Department. In January 2004, this position was recast with responsibility for accounting of both the Water & Light Department and the City’s general fund. The city offices had a split “finance department” with some responsibilities vesting with the Clerk/Treasurer and other responsibilities vesting with the Finance Director. I understand how we got a split department. But it did lend itself to duplication of effort. And it resulted in an artificial division between the office employees – depending on which supervisor they reported to, they were either Water & Light or City. In 2007 we used the Clerk/Treasurer vacancy as an opportunity to reorganize finance department responsibilities. We stripped the Treasurer duties separate from the Clerk and assigned those duties as part of the Finance Director’s role. All staff, including the Clerk, then reported to the Finance Director. This eliminated the split finance department, aligning all the fiscal duties in one financial department. It also resulted in better office and accounting efficiencies and improved customer service. 20112012 Lean Operations In 2011 a number of efficiency improvements were approved. Some were implemented then; others will be implemented this year. The most significant was the upgrading of our accounting software. Because this will be needed for a smart metering system in the future, WPPI Energy has offering a grant to cover the utility billing portion of the upgrade, approximately $28,000. They also offered a 0% loan to finance the nonbilling portion of the software, approximately $32,000. With reduced annual maintenance fees, the city will actually come out with a net savings. Although jobs in the finance department had been consolidated a few years ago, we maintained separate accounting systems. Now the accounting upgrade provides a timelyopportunity to consolidate the accounting databases: streamlining office procedures and further eliminating duplicative efforts. The consolidation was completed early this year; however, various delays with the software upgrade itself have taken much longer. Another related improvement was contracting with a thirdparty vendor to offer online and phone system for paying utility bills; this has been in place since fall 2011. This has been an excellent example of better service through ease and convenience for the customer. It also reduces staff time for handling and processing utility bills. And when the accounting software upgrade is completed later this summer, we will begin having the utility bills printed and mailed from another thirdparty vendor. Although the direct cost savings for this are pretty minimal, it will free up significant staff time. We need to be both effective and efficient. We need to be effective – from the citizen’s point of view – in providing quality service. We need to be efficient in the process – whether it means eliminating unnecessary paperwork, time and delay, costs, etc. We need to maximize the value of our performance. 2012 Executive Assistant This spring with the resignation of then Human Resources Administrator Jodi Sam, we again used a vacancy as an opportunity to reorganize job responsibilities within the finance department. The City Clerk has now taken on a greater role in human resources management. The Human Resources Administrator position was updated to become an Executive Assistant to help the Finance Director with accounting and bookkeeping, the City Administrator with employment contracts and collective bargaining, and the City Clerk with payroll and recordkeeping. Although on a much smaller scale than the 2007 reorganization, when coupled with the recent and ongoing lean operations, it will further focus the department’s operations. Strategic Thinking Over the past year, we have had a series of Committee of the Whole meetings (with another scheduled for September 15) to deliberately attend to building capacity for lean operations among city officials and staff. This means a commitment to improvement: a vision for topnotch service, practical training, a focus on results, and nurturing an organizational culture which looks past the status quo. As the city’s governing body, the Common Council should examine existing routines and explore innovative strategies (and/or encourage staff to). The way we performed in the past may have been the best approach then, but it might be less productive for the future. And some shortterm action should be seen as a means to a greater end, not as the end in and of itself. It means getting beyond a catch phrase like “topnotch service” and defining it in terms of specific priorities for safety, quality of life, and other public benefits.

Campers Not Ticketed: Ordinance did not include campers: Minutes

Public Safety Committee Wednesday, September 5, 2012 6:30 P.M. Regular Meeting Evansville City Hall Council Room 31 S Madison Street MINUTES 1. Chairperson Jacobson called meeting to order at 6:32 p.m. 2. Roll call of committee and staff members present was: Chairperson Jacobson Alderperson Hayes (Absent), and Alderperson Fuchs, Chief Scott McElroy, Mayor Sandy Decker and EMS Coordinator Mary Beaver. Others present: Gene Cratsenberg 3. Motion by Jacobson, second by Fuchs, to approve the agenda as printed. Motion passed. 4. Motion by Fuchs, second by Jacobson, to approve the August 1, 2012 regular meeting minutes as printed. Motion passed. 5. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed – None 6. Old Business-None 7. New Business a. Motion by Jacobson, seconded by Fuchs, to approve the Operator’s License applications for Braden T Harper, Sheri L Biddick, Chelsea J Arndt and Barbara J Lange. Motion passed. b. Gene Cratsenberg, 124 Highland, spoke about RV’s being parked on streets. Chief McElroy stated the police department marked 40 campers during the month of July. Owners of these units were moving them off the streets. He had spoken with the Judge and the Judge recommended not ticketing these as the ordinance does not apply to campers. Chair Jacobson stated that the city is trying to change/redesign our ordinance. Committee would like this referred to Dan Wietecha, City Administrator for an ordinance change as to the definition and time. Motion by Jacobson, second by Fuchs, to approve an ordinance change related to RV camper parking on city streets, sponsored by Jacobson and Fuchs. Motion passed. c. Discussion of the capital and operating budgets. EMS submitted handout of Operating Budget with a 0% increase, with nothing for capital. Police department will be adding back in accreditation and final numbers will be put in Friday. Chief will email out the final to the committee. 8. Evansville Police Report – There were 1006 calls for service for the month of August, 2012 compared to 1243 in July of 2011. We had 76 license plate transactions for the month of September. Officers Reese and Jones attended a Legal Update August 6 at McFarland Police Department. Fall in-service is scheduled for all EPD officers September through November, 2012. Officers Laufenberg and Reilly attended on September 4, 2012. We have on officer evaluation remaining. On-site accreditation evaluation is set for November 2013. The process, cost, time frame, etc. will be discussed with the Mayor Friday, September 7. Rachel Marx’ last day was August 31. Coop student, Evan Benedict, started August 20. Officers Anacker and Reilly are now working alone, with Officer Reilly taking over as court officer. Margo Wirth is working alone with another officer on duty. The department is short of part-time officers and plan to hire later this year or early in 2013. The city-wide burn ban was lifted Monday, August 6 by the Fire Chief. “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” crackdown on drunken drivers runs August 17 through September 3, 2012. National Night was August 7 from 5pm to 9pm at Schilberg Park in Milton Wisconsin. EPD participated, Chief requested that we host this event in 2014. Police department staff reported various signage that needs attention throughout the city. This list was forwarded to Public Works Director Dave Wartenweiler in July. One sign has been repaired as of this date. Radar trailer continues to be out weather permitting. A second Taser was added in August from donated funds, making two for the department and both are now in service. Files have been scanned up through August 31 thanks to Rachel Marx. Air cards are being utilized now rather than modems. Air cards appear faster and less expensive. Rock County Computer Services and General Communications continue to be called upon to get systems working properly. We are scheduled to have approval of the server purchase for the CAD/LRMS system at the County Board meeting September 13. Spillman will be coming in October/November to setup the server. Between then and the end of the year, we will be working with each agency to establish network connectivity. The kickoff for the RMS project will be October 10th at 9am in the IT Training Room at the Health Care Center. Two staff members will be sent to this three hour meeting. $10,000 has been budgeted for this project. 9. Evansville Medical Service Report – There were a total of 37 ambulance runs for the month of August 2012. Refresher/transition training for the next year cycle has been started. Half of the training is computer based. This month, Zachory and I were certified to teach Emergency Vehicle Operation class. Every two years, all EMS personnel will be certified in EVOC. EMS had a fundraiser brat sale last Saturday at Kopecky’s Piggly Wiggly. There was a great turnout and citizens were able to view the new ambulance. Friday Night Football games began at the end of August. We will have an ambulance at all home games. The 911 center is still working on getting all the bugs worked out of the new radio system for the mandated switch over in 2013. There have been many conference calls that I have been a part of to keep up to date on the progress. Budget was handed into Lisa Novinska, Finance Director/Treasurer. Our bottom line stayed the same. The townships were notified that the per capita fee is tentatively the same as last year of $21.00. Coordinator Beaver submitted the month’s schedule with a handout from Life Quest. 10. Motion by Jacobson, second by Hayes, to adjourn the meeting at 7:24 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Barbara Jacobson, Chairperson These minutes are not official until approved by Public Safety at their next regular meeting

Finance Committee to discuss Property Revaluation Thursday, Oct 4, 2012

NOTICE: The regular meeting of the Finance and Labor Relations Committee for the City of Evansville will be held on the date, time and place stated below. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance. Finance and Labor Relations Committee Regular Meeting Thursday, October 4, 2012, 5:30 p.m. City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI AGENDA 1. Call to order and roll call. 2. Approval of Agenda. 3. Motion to waive the reading of the minutes of the September 6, 2012, regular meeting and to approve as printed. 4. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed. 5. Motion to accept the City and W&L bills as presented. 6. Unfinished Business: A. Discussion and possible motions: Administration Office. 1) Position Description: City Administrator / Finance Director. 2) Position Description: Community Development Director. B. US Cellular Contract. 1) Motion to recommend to Common Council approval of Cellular Service Agreement with US Cellular through October 2014. 2) Motion to recommend to Common Council approval of Partner Employee Discount Program with US Cellular. C. Motion to recommend proposed budget to Common Council: Ordinance 2012-13, Adopting 2013 Operating and Capital Budgets and Setting Tax Levies. 7. New Business: A. Motion to approve hiring Limited Term Employee (LTE) through Dec 31, 2012. B. Motion to recommend to Common Council approval of Business Banking Agreement with Union Bank & Trust Company. C. Discussion and possible motions: Assessor and Property Revaluation. 1) Five-year Assessment Agreement with Associated Appraisal Consultants. 2) Revaluation Agreement with Associated Appraisal Consultants. 3) Budget Amendment for property revaluation. 8. Adjournment. Mason Braunschweig, Chair Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the City Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible. Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.

Library newsletter: New Library Director Named

Please welcome our new Director for the Eager Free Public Library. Megan Becker, who began her employment with EFPL as Assistant Director last May, has accepted the position of Director of the Library. For the past few months, she was the Acting Director. The Board of Trustees offered Megan the Director’s position in late September, and she accepted. Executive Committee Fred Juergens, President Audrey Shomos, Secretary Carol Endres, Treasurer Francette Hamilton, Volunteer Coordinator James Cunningham, Membership Chair Kathi Kemp, Program Chair Anna Landry, High School Liaison Megan Becker, Library Director, ex officio Annual Meeting Coming

Cullen: Misinformation considered root cause for previous mining bill's failure -- GazetteXtra

Nostalgia: 9/2005: Mr. Connors writes "On Backloaded Bonds"

-- billconnors wrote: --------------------------------- Managing growth is essential. But it would not be prudent to constrain growth too much. The school district's debt service for 2005-06 is $1.98 million. In 2014-15, the school district's debt service will exceed $3 million, even if no additional debt is issued between now and then. In 2020-21, the last year of payment on the bonds for the new high school, the school district's debt service will exceed $4 million. The school district heavily back-loaded the repayment schedule on the bonds for the new high school, which means they are counting on large increases in the school district's property tax base through new construction to be able to pay for the escalating debt service costs. This appears to be prudent financial planning on the part of the school district, but I wonder how many people are aware that continued growth is essential to keeping the school district's mill rate in line. Of course, we could get away with fewer new houses in the school district if we had more commercial or industrial development or a greater proportion of the new houses were larger and more expansive, and fewer new houses would save on operating costs for the school district. Bill Connors Evansville City Administrator

Monday, October 01, 2012

Daily Times - Leading News Resource of Pakistan - Asian markets slip lower on China, Europe worries

President Obama is Coming to Madison Thursday-Here are the details.

Please share with your friends and associates:Thursday’s event is free and open to the public – but an RSVP is required for entry into the event. Those who wish to attend must RSVP online at www.barackobama.com/Madison2012. To pass through security, guests must display their receipt on their mobile device or have a printed copy of their RSVP. THURSDAY: PRESIDENT OBAMA TO CAMPAIGN ON UW-MADISON CAMPUS MADISON –The day after his first Presidential Debate of this campaign season, President Obama will continue to lay out his plan to move America forward with a grassroots events on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. At the event, the President will discuss the choice facing Americans in this election between two fundamentally different visions of how to grow the economy, create middle-class jobs and restore middle-class economic security. He will also encourage supporters to register to vote and to vote early. In Wisconsin, early voting begins on Monday, October 22 and closes on November 2. Residents of Wisconsin can also register and vote on Election Day, Tuesday, November 6. Thursday’s event is free and open to the public – but an RSVP is required for entry into the event. Those who wish to attend must RSVP online at www.barackobama.com/Madison2012. To pass through security, guests must display their receipt on their mobile device or have a printed copy of their RSVP. EVENT LOCATION:Bascom Mall, University of Wisconsin - Madison (notably known as Bascom Hill) DOORS OPEN: 12:00 PM CDT Thursday, October 4, 2012 If members of the public choose to RSVP in person, they may visit any of the following OFA offices: OFA Field Office- Beloit 314 State Street Beloit, WI OFA Field Office – Janesville 111 W Milwaukee Janesville, WI OFA Field Office – Madison State Street 222 State Street Madison, WI OFA Field Office - Milwaukee 231 E. Wisconsin Milwaukee, WI OFA Field Office – Madison South Side 2801 W. Beltline, Madison, WI OFA Field Office – Madison West 1001 Fourier Drive Madison, WI OFA Field Office – Portage 216 W. Wisconsin Portage, WI OFA Field Office – Sun Prairie 1632 W. Main Street Sun Prairie, WI OFA Field Office – Waukesha 741 N. Grand Ave, Suite 100 Waukesha, WI Saturday Oct. 6 Canvass kickoffs-please check with your local office for details about your local canvasses -- Bethany Ordaz Organizing for America-Wisconsin Political Director 608-609-1427 ©2012 Wireman & Associates | 4001 Monona Dr, Madison WI 53717