Citizens turned out in droves last night at the Evansville School Board Meeting even as it began early at 5:30PM. They rose to speak in praise of the career work of Nancy Kress and ask the school board to replace her 1/2GT and 1/2 reading specialist position. Parents cited their experience of how Mrs. Kress has positively affected their child's learning. Parents asked that this position be part of a long range mission of the school and that adjusting the curriculum and reading in particular at the early grades is critical to later success in school, and life.
The school board listened to all the parents and then joined in their praise of Mrs. Kress. Then they moved directly to the agenda item affecting the replacement of her position and voted to do so.
Supr. Heidi Carvin noted at the opening of the meeting that due to very recent changes to the budget, including the retirement of Joe Amato, it was not necessary to consider the cut of Mrs. Kress's position. Nevertheless, parents stayed and made presentations on the issue.
Art Phillips spoke up and informed the parents that the proposal to eliminate the GT-Reading Specialist had not been proposed by the board. He also spoke of the wish to fashion a different budget process next year so parents would not have to be on edge each meeting and feeling that they had to constantly monitor the notice boards for a sudden meeting that might make changes without even their opportunity to speak to the issues presented.
( Ed. note. I hope to have audioblogger of some of the parents later.)
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
"Grumps" has an interesting post of "Blogs and Elections"
"Grumps" has the scoop on a recent study on "blogs" and elections. Enjoy.
Monroe Times Corner: Brett Davis writes: On bills recently signed
(Ed note. This is a letter to the editor recently of the Monroe Times from Brett Davis. Rep. )
Click on the post for the letter that reviews recently signed bills in the Legislature.
Click on the post for the letter that reviews recently signed bills in the Legislature.
Monday, May 08, 2006
A Really, Really Scary Story; True Story---About the 4th Amendment and YOU
(The following story about Gen. Hayden is a scary story, or should be, for all Americans. Ed. note.)
Probable Cause for Alarm
Press ignores Ex-NSA chief's ignorance of Constitution
1/27/06
When FEMA Director Michael Brown claimed not to be aware of the evacuee crisis at the New Orleans Convention Center following Hurricane Katrina (NPR, 9/1/05), many journalists expressed astonishment that a high-ranking official could be so uninformed about a crucial aspect of his job (e.g., Nightline, 9/1/05). But when Gen. Michael Hayden, principal deputy director of National Intelligence and former director of the National Security Agency, displayed an equally astounding lack of knowledge about a matter just as basic to his job, media as a whole let it pass without comment.
The subject in question was the constitutional protections the American public has against government spying--surely a vital thing to understand for the former head of the nation's top surveillance agency, and the person currently in charge of "overseeing the day-to-day activities of the national intelligence program," as his Air Force bio states. Those protections are specified in the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution, which reads in full:
"The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized."
Surely it's not too much to ask that the officials who are entrusted with the ability to spy on virtually any electronic communication have an appreciation of how this amendment limits that ability. Yet in a question-and-answer session at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. on January 23--before an audience consisting largely of journalists--Hayden repeatedly demonstrated that he does not know the basic language of this key part of the Bill of Rights.
The subject came up when reporter Jonathan Landay of Knight Ridder attempted to preface a question by stating that "the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution specifies that you must have probable cause to be able to do a search that does not violate an American's right against unlawful searches and seizures." Hayden interjected: "Actually, the Fourth Amendment actually protects all of us against unreasonable search and seizure. That's what it says."
Landay politely corrected him, saying, "But the measure is 'probable cause,' I believe." But Hayden insisted: "The amendment says 'unreasonable search and seizure.'" When Landay continued, "But does it not say probable--" he was interrupted by Hayden, who said, "No.... The amendment says 'unreasonable search and seizure.'"
Landay went on to ask his question, which was whether the NSA, by bypassing the special court mandated by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, had "crafted a detour around the FISA court by creating a new standard of 'reasonably believe' in place of 'probable cause.'" Hayden's response returned to the issue of the Fourth Amendment:
"I didn't craft the authorization. I am responding to a lawful order, alright? The attorney general has averred to the lawfulness of the order. Just to be very clear, okay--and, believe me, if there's any amendment to the Constitution that employees at the National Security Agency is familiar with, it's the Fourth, alright? And it is a reasonableness standard in the Fourth Amendment. So, what you've raised to me--and I'm not a lawyer, and don't want to become one--but what you've raised to me is, in terms of quoting the Fourth Amendment, is an issue of the Constitution. The constitutional standard is 'reasonable.' And we believe--I am convinced that we're lawful because what it is we're doing is reasonable."
By showing that he was unaware of the "probable cause" language in the Fourth Amendment, Hayden revealed that his insistence that it was legal for the NSA to conduct warrantless surveillance was not based on even a nodding familiarity with the constitutional issues involved. Given that Hayden's talk was part of a coordinated Bush administration publicity campaign to stress the legality of such surveillance, his demonstration of ignorance should have been a central point in the subsequent coverage. Instead, most news outlets that covered his speech chose to ignore his exchange with Landay and the knowledge gap it revealed.
The Philadelphia Inquirer, the flagship of the Knight Ridder chain that employs Landay, did publish a transcript of his exchange with Hayden (1/24/06)--though even the Inquirer does not seem to have had a story pointing out the significance of a high-ranking intelligence official not knowing that the Fourth Amendment contains a "probable cause" requirement.
Editor & Publisher, a website that covers journalism issues, carried a story on January 23 with the headline, "Defending Spy Program, General Reveals Shaky Grip on Fourth Amendment." The story reported that Hayden "appeared to be unfamiliar with the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution when pressed by a reporter with Knight Ridder's Washington office--despite his claims that he was actually something of an expert on it."
On MSNBC's Countdown (1/24/06), host Keith Olbermann played video of the exchange, followed by a reading of the Fourth Amendment. "It's hard to tell which is more frightening for those of you in favor of continuing the democracy, the mistake itself, or the general's insistence that it was not a mistake," Olbermann commented. "Well, maybe they have a different Constitution over there at the NSA."
Most outlets, however, ignored Hayden's inaccurate claims about the Fourth Amendment--even while covering other aspects of his talk. The New York Times (1/24/06) quoted Hayden, from his National Press Club speech, asserting that the NSA is well-versed in what the law allows in terms of spying:
"'I'm disappointed, I guess, that perhaps the default response for some is to assume the worst,' General Hayden said. 'I'm trying to communicate to you that the people who are doing this, OK, go shopping in Glen Burnie and their kids play soccer in Laurel,' he added, referring to suburbs near NSA headquarters in Maryland. 'And they know the law,' he continued. 'They know American privacy better than the average American, and they're dedicated to it.'"
The clear evidence from the same speech that the former NSA head does not, in fact, "know the law," was not included in the story.
The Associated Press (1/24/06) actually quoted from Hayden's exchange with Landay without pointing out that the constitutional assertion that he was making was patently false:
Under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, government officials had to prove to a secretive intelligence court that there was 'probable cause' to believe that a person was tied to terrorism. Bush's program allows senior NSA officials to approve surveillance when there was 'reason to believe' the call may involve al-Qaeda and its affiliates. Hayden maintained that the work was within the law. 'The constitutional standard is reasonable.... I am convinced that we are lawful because what it is we are doing is reasonable,'he said at the National Press Club.
By attributing the phrase "probable cause" to congressional legislation, and then allowing Hayden, without rebuttal, to claim that the Constitution offered a different standard, the AP accomplished nothing except misinforming its readers.
The First Amendment to the Constitution extends special protection to the press because the framers believed that an unfettered press would help to protect the other rights that the Constitution guaranteed. The lackadaisical media response to the revelation that a high-ranking government official doesn't even understand what those rights are can only make one worry that the framers' trust was misplaced.
See FAIR's Archives for more on:
Civil Liberties
Law
Probable Cause for Alarm
Press ignores Ex-NSA chief's ignorance of Constitution
1/27/06
When FEMA Director Michael Brown claimed not to be aware of the evacuee crisis at the New Orleans Convention Center following Hurricane Katrina (NPR, 9/1/05), many journalists expressed astonishment that a high-ranking official could be so uninformed about a crucial aspect of his job (e.g., Nightline, 9/1/05). But when Gen. Michael Hayden, principal deputy director of National Intelligence and former director of the National Security Agency, displayed an equally astounding lack of knowledge about a matter just as basic to his job, media as a whole let it pass without comment.
The subject in question was the constitutional protections the American public has against government spying--surely a vital thing to understand for the former head of the nation's top surveillance agency, and the person currently in charge of "overseeing the day-to-day activities of the national intelligence program," as his Air Force bio states. Those protections are specified in the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution, which reads in full:
"The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized."
Surely it's not too much to ask that the officials who are entrusted with the ability to spy on virtually any electronic communication have an appreciation of how this amendment limits that ability. Yet in a question-and-answer session at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. on January 23--before an audience consisting largely of journalists--Hayden repeatedly demonstrated that he does not know the basic language of this key part of the Bill of Rights.
The subject came up when reporter Jonathan Landay of Knight Ridder attempted to preface a question by stating that "the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution specifies that you must have probable cause to be able to do a search that does not violate an American's right against unlawful searches and seizures." Hayden interjected: "Actually, the Fourth Amendment actually protects all of us against unreasonable search and seizure. That's what it says."
Landay politely corrected him, saying, "But the measure is 'probable cause,' I believe." But Hayden insisted: "The amendment says 'unreasonable search and seizure.'" When Landay continued, "But does it not say probable--" he was interrupted by Hayden, who said, "No.... The amendment says 'unreasonable search and seizure.'"
Landay went on to ask his question, which was whether the NSA, by bypassing the special court mandated by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, had "crafted a detour around the FISA court by creating a new standard of 'reasonably believe' in place of 'probable cause.'" Hayden's response returned to the issue of the Fourth Amendment:
"I didn't craft the authorization. I am responding to a lawful order, alright? The attorney general has averred to the lawfulness of the order. Just to be very clear, okay--and, believe me, if there's any amendment to the Constitution that employees at the National Security Agency is familiar with, it's the Fourth, alright? And it is a reasonableness standard in the Fourth Amendment. So, what you've raised to me--and I'm not a lawyer, and don't want to become one--but what you've raised to me is, in terms of quoting the Fourth Amendment, is an issue of the Constitution. The constitutional standard is 'reasonable.' And we believe--I am convinced that we're lawful because what it is we're doing is reasonable."
By showing that he was unaware of the "probable cause" language in the Fourth Amendment, Hayden revealed that his insistence that it was legal for the NSA to conduct warrantless surveillance was not based on even a nodding familiarity with the constitutional issues involved. Given that Hayden's talk was part of a coordinated Bush administration publicity campaign to stress the legality of such surveillance, his demonstration of ignorance should have been a central point in the subsequent coverage. Instead, most news outlets that covered his speech chose to ignore his exchange with Landay and the knowledge gap it revealed.
The Philadelphia Inquirer, the flagship of the Knight Ridder chain that employs Landay, did publish a transcript of his exchange with Hayden (1/24/06)--though even the Inquirer does not seem to have had a story pointing out the significance of a high-ranking intelligence official not knowing that the Fourth Amendment contains a "probable cause" requirement.
Editor & Publisher, a website that covers journalism issues, carried a story on January 23 with the headline, "Defending Spy Program, General Reveals Shaky Grip on Fourth Amendment." The story reported that Hayden "appeared to be unfamiliar with the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution when pressed by a reporter with Knight Ridder's Washington office--despite his claims that he was actually something of an expert on it."
On MSNBC's Countdown (1/24/06), host Keith Olbermann played video of the exchange, followed by a reading of the Fourth Amendment. "It's hard to tell which is more frightening for those of you in favor of continuing the democracy, the mistake itself, or the general's insistence that it was not a mistake," Olbermann commented. "Well, maybe they have a different Constitution over there at the NSA."
Most outlets, however, ignored Hayden's inaccurate claims about the Fourth Amendment--even while covering other aspects of his talk. The New York Times (1/24/06) quoted Hayden, from his National Press Club speech, asserting that the NSA is well-versed in what the law allows in terms of spying:
"'I'm disappointed, I guess, that perhaps the default response for some is to assume the worst,' General Hayden said. 'I'm trying to communicate to you that the people who are doing this, OK, go shopping in Glen Burnie and their kids play soccer in Laurel,' he added, referring to suburbs near NSA headquarters in Maryland. 'And they know the law,' he continued. 'They know American privacy better than the average American, and they're dedicated to it.'"
The clear evidence from the same speech that the former NSA head does not, in fact, "know the law," was not included in the story.
The Associated Press (1/24/06) actually quoted from Hayden's exchange with Landay without pointing out that the constitutional assertion that he was making was patently false:
Under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, government officials had to prove to a secretive intelligence court that there was 'probable cause' to believe that a person was tied to terrorism. Bush's program allows senior NSA officials to approve surveillance when there was 'reason to believe' the call may involve al-Qaeda and its affiliates. Hayden maintained that the work was within the law. 'The constitutional standard is reasonable.... I am convinced that we are lawful because what it is we are doing is reasonable,'he said at the National Press Club.
By attributing the phrase "probable cause" to congressional legislation, and then allowing Hayden, without rebuttal, to claim that the Constitution offered a different standard, the AP accomplished nothing except misinforming its readers.
The First Amendment to the Constitution extends special protection to the press because the framers believed that an unfettered press would help to protect the other rights that the Constitution guaranteed. The lackadaisical media response to the revelation that a high-ranking government official doesn't even understand what those rights are can only make one worry that the framers' trust was misplaced.
See FAIR's Archives for more on:
Civil Liberties
Law
Mailbag: " Brkmn "thinks current rules provide plenty of public participation; Wonders how rule change would improve matters?
(ed. note. This comment was from another post but I have posted it separately for visibility. This issue will be discussed at Finance tonight and tomorrow night at Common Council.)
Evansville already has very broad and liberal public-participation rules for common council meetings. They are:
Sec. 2-33(a)4 : "Persons present who wish to appear on any matter will be permitted to speak at the discretion of the presiding officer at this time." [This is the point in the agenda immediately agfter the approval of the minutes.]
Sec. 2-33(a)5 : "Report of committees. Persons present who wish to appear on any matter contained in a committee report may appear at this time." [Ordinance approvals generally are conducted as part of committee reports.]
Sec. 2-71(3) : "Citizens addressing the council. No person other than a member shall address the council, except under section 2-33(a)(4) and (5), and except that citizens may address the council with the permission of the presiding officer as to matters which are being considered by the council at the time."
One wonders how the proposed amendment improves matters.
Publish this comment.
Evansville already has very broad and liberal public-participation rules for common council meetings. They are:
Sec. 2-33(a)4 : "Persons present who wish to appear on any matter will be permitted to speak at the discretion of the presiding officer at this time." [This is the point in the agenda immediately agfter the approval of the minutes.]
Sec. 2-33(a)5 : "Report of committees. Persons present who wish to appear on any matter contained in a committee report may appear at this time." [Ordinance approvals generally are conducted as part of committee reports.]
Sec. 2-71(3) : "Citizens addressing the council. No person other than a member shall address the council, except under section 2-33(a)(4) and (5), and except that citizens may address the council with the permission of the presiding officer as to matters which are being considered by the council at the time."
One wonders how the proposed amendment improves matters.
Publish this comment.
Tuesday Evansville Common Council meeting May appoint Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
(Ed. Note. In the agenda for the meeting on Tuesday, is the following.)
"Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Ron Arndt, 598 Water St., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Steve Hagen, 420 West Main St., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Bill Alt, 216 West Main St., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Jeff Vrstal, 284 Franklin St., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Steve Carlson, 33 North First St., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Bill Castonguay, 111 Gunther Dr., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee "
"Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Ron Arndt, 598 Water St., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Steve Hagen, 420 West Main St., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Bill Alt, 216 West Main St., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Jeff Vrstal, 284 Franklin St., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Steve Carlson, 33 North First St., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee
Motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Bill Castonguay, 111 Gunther Dr., to the Outdoor Furnace Study Committee "
Planning Commission Beat: Family Entertainment Center---Applicant Speaks---Citizens Respond
Bernardo Maurice describes his vision for the Entertainment Center:
Citizens Speak:
Citizens Speak:
Let's Suspend the Rules, or ; Do we mean it about collector streets?
Mr. Connors talks about the details of the collector street and arterial street requirements in the various zoning areas and asks the council for direction.
Shopping for the best price---in health care
Click on the post for an article in the St. Paul Pioneer Press on the new push in Minnesota to provide "transparency" in health care costs.
One unnerving section of the article is the comparison of shopping for health care to shopping for auto body work and how you hold up the estimates side by side----and then pick the cheapest. I don't know about your experience in the auto body area....It just isn't that simple....And it turns out in the health care case it isn't also---as is pointed out in the article------ you have to consider quality side by side too. That has been a lifetime in adjusting to in auto and I suspect that it takes a lifetime in the matter of bealth care.
Anyway, more transparency is good. You make the call.
One unnerving section of the article is the comparison of shopping for health care to shopping for auto body work and how you hold up the estimates side by side----and then pick the cheapest. I don't know about your experience in the auto body area....It just isn't that simple....And it turns out in the health care case it isn't also---as is pointed out in the article------ you have to consider quality side by side too. That has been a lifetime in adjusting to in auto and I suspect that it takes a lifetime in the matter of bealth care.
Anyway, more transparency is good. You make the call.
School Beat: Evansville School Board May Meeting--Monday-May 8--5:30PM--HS Media room--NOTE TIME
Click the post and then scroll down to the May 8th meeting. Detailed information should be posted on Monday.
Fire District Corner: May 2, Minutes; On New Fire Station; On Controlled Burn Procedure
Here is a portion of the Fire District recent minutes:
NEW BUSINESS
Pictures of new truck have been emailed to Chief. Truck will be available for delivery around May 15. Vehicle will be sent out for lettering then off to the demo circuit. Vehicle will be in town for July 04.
Chief questioned whether burning Wind Prairie was acceptable as to City Ordnance. Private citizen in charge of prairie requests this burn every other year.
McCoy questioned whether each party involved in auto accident should be billed the $500.00 user fee; current policy is to split fee between both parties involved. No action taken.
LAND PURCHASE / NEW BUILDING
Chief stated there is a 42’ easement on west side of parcel south of town, next to Water & Light Department. One access to Highway 213 is being verified with DOT. Owner is proposing possible land contract for purchase. Board is in agreement as to acceptability of this parcel for new station.
911-CENTER CONTROL BURN PROCEDURE
McCoy distributed 911-Center control burn procedure. New procedure states citizen will be advised to contact fire department or town board to approve controlled burn in area. Wessels recommends caller be advised to check local ordnance. Main reason for contacting 911-center for control burns was to log fire to avoid fire call.
The next meeting will be June 06, 2006 at 7p.m. at the Fire Station
TO AVOID A $500.00 USER FEE, CALL 757-2244 FOR ALL CONTROLLED BURNS
NEW BUSINESS
Pictures of new truck have been emailed to Chief. Truck will be available for delivery around May 15. Vehicle will be sent out for lettering then off to the demo circuit. Vehicle will be in town for July 04.
Chief questioned whether burning Wind Prairie was acceptable as to City Ordnance. Private citizen in charge of prairie requests this burn every other year.
McCoy questioned whether each party involved in auto accident should be billed the $500.00 user fee; current policy is to split fee between both parties involved. No action taken.
LAND PURCHASE / NEW BUILDING
Chief stated there is a 42’ easement on west side of parcel south of town, next to Water & Light Department. One access to Highway 213 is being verified with DOT. Owner is proposing possible land contract for purchase. Board is in agreement as to acceptability of this parcel for new station.
911-CENTER CONTROL BURN PROCEDURE
McCoy distributed 911-Center control burn procedure. New procedure states citizen will be advised to contact fire department or town board to approve controlled burn in area. Wessels recommends caller be advised to check local ordnance. Main reason for contacting 911-center for control burns was to log fire to avoid fire call.
The next meeting will be June 06, 2006 at 7p.m. at the Fire Station
TO AVOID A $500.00 USER FEE, CALL 757-2244 FOR ALL CONTROLLED BURNS
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Fees: What things cost; Background info on Fee Discussion
(This is a background information sheet. It gives an overview of what things cost. It is necessary to have a large view in order to have a perspective of what fees are possible and appropriate for such activities in places such as school. Ed. note.)
The following listing of athletic and extracurricular fees has been compiled from Evansville parents. The purpose of this listing is to provide additional background information as you consider athletic fees and the amount of school district support for athletics in tough budget times. It is by no means a complete listing. It is meant to show that parents have become accustomed to paying fees to participate in these programs.
In an ideal situation, it would be wonderful, if students were able to participate in competitive school athletics and these programs free of charge. Unfortunately, the current budget and state revenue caps, does not present an ideal situation. Please consider a policy whereby the school district reduces their subsidy of these programs before eliminating educational programs. Remember that scholarships and assistance are available for those who are unable to pay the fee.
One parent indicated that she would “definitely be willing to pay an increase cost to keep a program going. Perhaps they could add a dollar cost to set up a scholarship fund for those who couldn't afford it and wanted to be on the team”.
Sports/Athletic:
Basketball: K-2: $50 (6 week program)
3-5: $20 (6 week program)
Girls Basketball camp: $65 (one week, 2 hours a day)
Dance: The cost of this varies from year to year depending on the number of classes she takes and the number of competitions she attends. We had a couple of years where we paid between $500 and $600 for the year, this includes lessons, competition fees and costumes. This year our total cost will be closer to $1,500.
Tap dance class that I think was $165 for the year plus $55 for his costume and $35 for a competition entrance fee. Total of $255 for the year.
Dance classes: $224 per trimester (plus cost of leotard, tights and ballet slippers/tap shoes, and $50 for the recital costume....and $5 for each family member who attends the recital).
Karate/Martial Arts: We paid $85 per month/12 months a year for Karate lessons. There was also additional fees for promotions, competitions, uniforms and other gear. We have paid close to $3,000 over the last two years.
Martial arts $30/month (for intro. level) and
$40/month (for mid-level).
Little League baseball: $20 to $30 for City-sponsored recreation program.
Soccer: $55 for 12 weeks for children up to age 10,
$85 for 12 weeks for children 10 and older plus the cost of the uniform. (There is a $10 discount for early registration)
British Soccer Camp during the summer, $65 for Ages 4-5 (for 5- 1 ½ hr days), $88 for ages 6-14 (for 5- 3 hr days).
Swimming/Swim Team: Swimming lessons are $35 (for 10- ½ hour lessons).
Swim team is $35 (6 weeks, one hour per day, 3-4 meets each summer).
Seasonal swim pass is $120 for a family of four.
Wrestling (Community program): $85 (Nov.-March)
Arts:
Music lessons: Piano lessons ($10/lesson so approx $320/year and this is a very reasonable price).
Violin lessons: $50 per month for lessons (this does not include the cost of the violin or materials...violin rental is about $20/month).
Music Together classes: $135 per family per 10 week session.
Private Music Lessons at Ward Brodt ~$100/month per child.
Language: French classes: $32/month.
Extra-Curricular Clubs:
4-H: There is very little cost involved in this, in fact, for kids with animals, it can be a money maker.
Cub Scouts: We think that was about $65 and then additional costs throughout the year for certain activities.
Boy Scouts was $35/year not including camp which was ~ $90 if you didn’t sell anything from the fund raiser.
I am a leader and the cost for him is $30.00, this does not include camp which is $70.00 (not including any fund raising money they would receive. For each box of popcorn they sell a certain amount of money goes toward their camp cost.)
Girl Scouts/Brownies: $10/year, not including camp.
$10 plus, our troop came up with a $20 additional fee for dues (t-shirt, pins and patches), which does not include extra cost for extra activities outside of the meeting.
GS Camp: $85 Horse Camp day camp one week
Other Camps:
Aldo Leopold Nature Ctr.: $25 (Ages 4-5)
$30-$50 (Ages 6+)
Camp Invention: $200
Church Camp: $100 one week resident
Discovering Youth Arts: Weekly summer mini camps for Grades K-5:
$40/week (3 hours per day)
Gifted Camps: 5-6th grades: $895 one week residence option or $770 commuter option.
7-8th grades: $1700 one week residence
9-12th grades: $2200 one week residence
Other
Museum: Yearly subscription $60 (not including gas, lunch and special activities).
Summer School: The fee is $15 per class.
The following listing of athletic and extracurricular fees has been compiled from Evansville parents. The purpose of this listing is to provide additional background information as you consider athletic fees and the amount of school district support for athletics in tough budget times. It is by no means a complete listing. It is meant to show that parents have become accustomed to paying fees to participate in these programs.
In an ideal situation, it would be wonderful, if students were able to participate in competitive school athletics and these programs free of charge. Unfortunately, the current budget and state revenue caps, does not present an ideal situation. Please consider a policy whereby the school district reduces their subsidy of these programs before eliminating educational programs. Remember that scholarships and assistance are available for those who are unable to pay the fee.
One parent indicated that she would “definitely be willing to pay an increase cost to keep a program going. Perhaps they could add a dollar cost to set up a scholarship fund for those who couldn't afford it and wanted to be on the team”.
Sports/Athletic:
Basketball: K-2: $50 (6 week program)
3-5: $20 (6 week program)
Girls Basketball camp: $65 (one week, 2 hours a day)
Dance: The cost of this varies from year to year depending on the number of classes she takes and the number of competitions she attends. We had a couple of years where we paid between $500 and $600 for the year, this includes lessons, competition fees and costumes. This year our total cost will be closer to $1,500.
Tap dance class that I think was $165 for the year plus $55 for his costume and $35 for a competition entrance fee. Total of $255 for the year.
Dance classes: $224 per trimester (plus cost of leotard, tights and ballet slippers/tap shoes, and $50 for the recital costume....and $5 for each family member who attends the recital).
Karate/Martial Arts: We paid $85 per month/12 months a year for Karate lessons. There was also additional fees for promotions, competitions, uniforms and other gear. We have paid close to $3,000 over the last two years.
Martial arts $30/month (for intro. level) and
$40/month (for mid-level).
Little League baseball: $20 to $30 for City-sponsored recreation program.
Soccer: $55 for 12 weeks for children up to age 10,
$85 for 12 weeks for children 10 and older plus the cost of the uniform. (There is a $10 discount for early registration)
British Soccer Camp during the summer, $65 for Ages 4-5 (for 5- 1 ½ hr days), $88 for ages 6-14 (for 5- 3 hr days).
Swimming/Swim Team: Swimming lessons are $35 (for 10- ½ hour lessons).
Swim team is $35 (6 weeks, one hour per day, 3-4 meets each summer).
Seasonal swim pass is $120 for a family of four.
Wrestling (Community program): $85 (Nov.-March)
Arts:
Music lessons: Piano lessons ($10/lesson so approx $320/year and this is a very reasonable price).
Violin lessons: $50 per month for lessons (this does not include the cost of the violin or materials...violin rental is about $20/month).
Music Together classes: $135 per family per 10 week session.
Private Music Lessons at Ward Brodt ~$100/month per child.
Language: French classes: $32/month.
Extra-Curricular Clubs:
4-H: There is very little cost involved in this, in fact, for kids with animals, it can be a money maker.
Cub Scouts: We think that was about $65 and then additional costs throughout the year for certain activities.
Boy Scouts was $35/year not including camp which was ~ $90 if you didn’t sell anything from the fund raiser.
I am a leader and the cost for him is $30.00, this does not include camp which is $70.00 (not including any fund raising money they would receive. For each box of popcorn they sell a certain amount of money goes toward their camp cost.)
Girl Scouts/Brownies: $10/year, not including camp.
$10 plus, our troop came up with a $20 additional fee for dues (t-shirt, pins and patches), which does not include extra cost for extra activities outside of the meeting.
GS Camp: $85 Horse Camp day camp one week
Other Camps:
Aldo Leopold Nature Ctr.: $25 (Ages 4-5)
$30-$50 (Ages 6+)
Camp Invention: $200
Church Camp: $100 one week resident
Discovering Youth Arts: Weekly summer mini camps for Grades K-5:
$40/week (3 hours per day)
Gifted Camps: 5-6th grades: $895 one week residence option or $770 commuter option.
7-8th grades: $1700 one week residence
9-12th grades: $2200 one week residence
Other
Museum: Yearly subscription $60 (not including gas, lunch and special activities).
Summer School: The fee is $15 per class.
Glorious Sunday in Evansville
It's a glorious Sunday in Evansville
With youngsters in first Communion attire
Tourists traveling through
Musicians tuning up for the finale of the musical
"How to Succeed in Business without really trying."
Time to step out for a mocha,,or two,
Take a stroll
Ride a Bike
Just lounge around and enjoy
![]()
Time to run a mile or two
Turn the Ipod down
Listen to the birds
Breathe deep oh fit one
Stop for a break
every mile or two
With youngsters in first Communion attire
Tourists traveling through
Musicians tuning up for the finale of the musical
"How to Succeed in Business without really trying."
Time to step out for a mocha,,or two,
Take a stroll
Ride a Bike
Just lounge around and enjoy
Time to run a mile or two
Turn the Ipod down
Listen to the birds
Breathe deep oh fit one
Stop for a break
every mile or two
Focus on Water
Last week featured a whole series of articles in the Wisconsin State Journal on the crisis in water that cities across the nation are facing, and Madison in particular is facing, as water quality is being affected by inadequate funding for infrastructure replacement.
Click on the post for the summary in the Wis. Journal OP ed column. The bottom line is that citizens will have to face the music of higher costs if water quality is to be maintained---in fact much higher costs. The costs that our beloved forefathers have allocated to replacement have been very small compared to what was needed. This may be a rude budegetary shock for all of America. Stay tuned.
Click on the post for the summary in the Wis. Journal OP ed column. The bottom line is that citizens will have to face the music of higher costs if water quality is to be maintained---in fact much higher costs. The costs that our beloved forefathers have allocated to replacement have been very small compared to what was needed. This may be a rude budegetary shock for all of America. Stay tuned.
The I-Pod Craze
Big article in the Cap Times today on the i-pod craze among the college set in Madison. At the very end of the article is the following note;
"Talk and twitter: Not all students using MP3 players are listening to music. Some of them listen to podcasts from their instructors, said Meg McCall, senior marketing specialist at the Division of Information Technology.
Eighty instructors or departments have received $800 grants to start using podcasts as part of their curriculum, McCall said. Some may simply choose to put their lectures online, but most are creating supplemental material for students to download, she said.
Students in Professor Mark Berres' class, for instance, are downloading 132 songs to their iPods. The students won't be rocking out, however. Berres is an avian biology professor; the tunes are bird songs.
"You could be familiarizing yourself with birdcalls while walking down the street," McCall marveled.
Or perhaps students could unplug and simply listen to the birds.
E-mail: anathans@madison.com
Published: May 6, 2006
"Talk and twitter: Not all students using MP3 players are listening to music. Some of them listen to podcasts from their instructors, said Meg McCall, senior marketing specialist at the Division of Information Technology.
Eighty instructors or departments have received $800 grants to start using podcasts as part of their curriculum, McCall said. Some may simply choose to put their lectures online, but most are creating supplemental material for students to download, she said.
Students in Professor Mark Berres' class, for instance, are downloading 132 songs to their iPods. The students won't be rocking out, however. Berres is an avian biology professor; the tunes are bird songs.
"You could be familiarizing yourself with birdcalls while walking down the street," McCall marveled.
Or perhaps students could unplug and simply listen to the birds.
E-mail: anathans@madison.com
Published: May 6, 2006
Friday, May 05, 2006
Evansville City Council may approve switch of electric supplier to WPPI
(Ed. note. This matter was discussed at the meeting of Water and Light last week. WPPI is the wholesale supplier of many of the cities surrounding Evansville. There may be a cost saving. The following is the summary from the memorandum from Mr. Connors on the subject.)
"Wisconsin Public Power, Inc.
The Common Council will hear a presentation from Wisconsin Public Power, Inc. (WPPI) regarding the benefits of joining WPPI. After the presentation, the Council might entertain a motion to authorize the municipal electric utility to join WPPI. WPPI is a not-for-profit municipal wholesale electric utility created in 1980. It is owned by the 40 municipalities that are members and operate municipal electric utilities (nearby municipalities that are WPPI members include Stoughton, New Glarus, and Brodhead). Currently, the Evansville municipal electric utility purchases wholesale power exclusively from Alliant Energy. If the municipal electric utility joins WPPI, it will purchase wholesale power exclusively from WPPI. The Water and Light Committee already was heard a presentation by WPPI and supports joining WPPI."
"Wisconsin Public Power, Inc.
The Common Council will hear a presentation from Wisconsin Public Power, Inc. (WPPI) regarding the benefits of joining WPPI. After the presentation, the Council might entertain a motion to authorize the municipal electric utility to join WPPI. WPPI is a not-for-profit municipal wholesale electric utility created in 1980. It is owned by the 40 municipalities that are members and operate municipal electric utilities (nearby municipalities that are WPPI members include Stoughton, New Glarus, and Brodhead). Currently, the Evansville municipal electric utility purchases wholesale power exclusively from Alliant Energy. If the municipal electric utility joins WPPI, it will purchase wholesale power exclusively from WPPI. The Water and Light Committee already was heard a presentation by WPPI and supports joining WPPI."
Evansville Common Council to consider modifying citizen input procedure at meetings
(Ed. note. This is an excerpt from the Memorandum of Mr. Connors to the City Council on selected items on the agenda for Tuesday._)
"Council Order of Business and Rules of Procedure
The Common Council will consider adopting Ordinance #2006-9, which would amend the Common Council’s order of business to allow citizens to appear near the beginning of each Council meeting and address the Council for up to five minutes per on any subject, regardless of whether the subject is or is not listed later on the agenda. Currently, citizens are allowed to speak at this time only about items not on the agenda. Regarding items on the agenda, currently, citizens are permitted to speak only at the discretion of the presiding officer, unless there is a public hearing. The ordinance also would clarify that city staff are allowed to address the Council when recognized by the presiding officer."
"Council Order of Business and Rules of Procedure
The Common Council will consider adopting Ordinance #2006-9, which would amend the Common Council’s order of business to allow citizens to appear near the beginning of each Council meeting and address the Council for up to five minutes per on any subject, regardless of whether the subject is or is not listed later on the agenda. Currently, citizens are allowed to speak at this time only about items not on the agenda. Regarding items on the agenda, currently, citizens are permitted to speak only at the discretion of the presiding officer, unless there is a public hearing. The ordinance also would clarify that city staff are allowed to address the Council when recognized by the presiding officer."
City Council: Traffic Impact Study: April minutes
(Ed. note. The following is the portion of new business that related to the approval of the traffic impact study.)
"New Business.
Motion by Juergens, seconded by Cothard, to authorize Foth & Van Dyke, City Engineer, to perform a traffic impact analysis study regarding development north and south of USH 14 east of CTH M at an estimated cost of $18,500. This traffic impact analysis is a standard requirement before the state Department of Transportation will consider approving any new intersection on a state or U.S. highway or a subdivision adjacent to a state or U.S. highway. Mr. Connors said the city would use tax increment to pay for the cost of the study, if the city creates Tax Incremental District No. 6. If TID No. 6 is not created, the city will have to pay for the cost of the study out of operating revenues. Ald. Wyse asked whether it would be prudent to wait to see if TID No. 6 is created before starting on the traffic impact analysis. Mr. Connors said it would be difficult to determine the zoning, street layout, and extent of TIF-financed costs on the D&D Development property, which would make up most of TID No. 6, until the traffic impact analysis is complete and we know where the state Department of Transportation will allow intersections."
"New Business.
Motion by Juergens, seconded by Cothard, to authorize Foth & Van Dyke, City Engineer, to perform a traffic impact analysis study regarding development north and south of USH 14 east of CTH M at an estimated cost of $18,500. This traffic impact analysis is a standard requirement before the state Department of Transportation will consider approving any new intersection on a state or U.S. highway or a subdivision adjacent to a state or U.S. highway. Mr. Connors said the city would use tax increment to pay for the cost of the study, if the city creates Tax Incremental District No. 6. If TID No. 6 is not created, the city will have to pay for the cost of the study out of operating revenues. Ald. Wyse asked whether it would be prudent to wait to see if TID No. 6 is created before starting on the traffic impact analysis. Mr. Connors said it would be difficult to determine the zoning, street layout, and extent of TIF-financed costs on the D&D Development property, which would make up most of TID No. 6, until the traffic impact analysis is complete and we know where the state Department of Transportation will allow intersections."
Monroe Times: School Beat: Growth of Virtual, natural attrition, streamlining, lessen pain in Monroe
Click on the post for the story in the Monroe Times on how the budget cuts in the Monroe School system is sorting out. Some creativity, some streamlining, some retirements and some retirements have all combined to lessen the pain in Monroe.
Enjoy.
Enjoy.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Agenda: Finance: May 8, 2006, 5:30PM
Finance and Labor Relations Committee
Regular Meeting
Monday, May 8, 2006, 5:30 p.m.
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI
AGENDA
Call to order.
Roll call.
Approval of Agenda.
Motion to waive the reading of the minutes of the April 10, 2006, meetings and approve them as printed.
Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed.
Motion to approve the W&L bills and authorize their payment.
Motion to approve the City bills and authorize their payment.
Unfinished Business.
Report on status of insurance/collateral covering city’s deposits at Union Bank & Trust Co. and other financial institutions.
Report on status of revised Employee Handbook.
Motion to remove from the table the motion to recommend to Common Council adoption of Resolution #2006-8, amending the adopted 2006 city budget to increase the appropriation for the youth center for equipment.
New Business
Motion to authorize Police Commission members to attend the course “The Role of the Police and Fire Commission.”
Motion to recommend to Common Council to approve the Amended Agreement between City of Evansville Water & Light, Department of Public Works, and Clerical and Teamsters Local Union No. 579.
Ordinance #2006-9, amending the Municipal Code relative to the Common Council’s order of business and rules of procedure
Staff report
Initial discussion by Finance and Labor Relations Committee
Public hearing
Final discussion by Finance and Labor Relations Committee
Motion to recommend to Council adoption Ordinance #2006-9, amending the Municipal Code relative to the Common Council’s order of business and rules of procedure.
Motion to recommend to Council approval Resolution #2006-15, modifying procedures for the Building Improvement Grant Program.
Motion to recommend to Council approval Resolution #2006-16, establishing the process for creating and adopting the 2007 City Operating and Capital Budgets.
Motion to recommend to Council approval of Agreement for Coordination of Senior Services.
Motion to authorize City Administrator to attend WCMA summer conference in Lake Geneva (no overnight stay).
Motion to adjourn.
Thomas Cothard, Chair
Finance & Labor Relations Committee
Regular Meeting
Monday, May 8, 2006, 5:30 p.m.
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI
AGENDA
Call to order.
Roll call.
Approval of Agenda.
Motion to waive the reading of the minutes of the April 10, 2006, meetings and approve them as printed.
Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed.
Motion to approve the W&L bills and authorize their payment.
Motion to approve the City bills and authorize their payment.
Unfinished Business.
Report on status of insurance/collateral covering city’s deposits at Union Bank & Trust Co. and other financial institutions.
Report on status of revised Employee Handbook.
Motion to remove from the table the motion to recommend to Common Council adoption of Resolution #2006-8, amending the adopted 2006 city budget to increase the appropriation for the youth center for equipment.
New Business
Motion to authorize Police Commission members to attend the course “The Role of the Police and Fire Commission.”
Motion to recommend to Common Council to approve the Amended Agreement between City of Evansville Water & Light, Department of Public Works, and Clerical and Teamsters Local Union No. 579.
Ordinance #2006-9, amending the Municipal Code relative to the Common Council’s order of business and rules of procedure
Staff report
Initial discussion by Finance and Labor Relations Committee
Public hearing
Final discussion by Finance and Labor Relations Committee
Motion to recommend to Council adoption Ordinance #2006-9, amending the Municipal Code relative to the Common Council’s order of business and rules of procedure.
Motion to recommend to Council approval Resolution #2006-15, modifying procedures for the Building Improvement Grant Program.
Motion to recommend to Council approval Resolution #2006-16, establishing the process for creating and adopting the 2007 City Operating and Capital Budgets.
Motion to recommend to Council approval of Agreement for Coordination of Senior Services.
Motion to authorize City Administrator to attend WCMA summer conference in Lake Geneva (no overnight stay).
Motion to adjourn.
Thomas Cothard, Chair
Finance & Labor Relations Committee
Pool Update
April Minutes of the Park Board say:
"9. Aquatic Report:
Rick Hamacher, Aquatic Director : The pool will open on time; registration materials will be mailed out with May water and light bills. Repairs and touch-up painting will all be complete. The solar panel project is under construction. He reminded the PRB that this is a demonstration project, and will result in a 3-4% savings in heating costs for the pool. He further mentioned that to reap significant benefits, the 2007 budget must contain $10-15K to expand the solar heating system. He has hired a Park Store Manager, Tammy Pomplun, and an assistant manager."
West Side Park Update--
In the recent April Park Board minutes was the following section on the West Side Park.
7. West-Side Park work for 2006;
a. No actual work has been done on engineering prior grading the soccer field surface. Barbara Jacobson reported that she’s seen some work going on at the park. The City engineer reported (after this meeting) that work is currently focusing on getting the access to the new well house improved and grading a drainage ditch. Other work will begin soon.
b. Brad Fahlgren, 14016 Northridge Drive, and Kitty Verkuilan, 14357 W. Golf Air Drive, both representing the Soccer Club, requested assistance, as appropriate, in going forward with the soccer fields at the West Side Park. They also indicated their willingness to assist the city, as appropriate, in moving the project forward so that grading and seeding is done with turf appropriate for a soccer field. They reported that the club has a continuing problem maintaining the fields they use now and having enough field capacity for the growing number of people who play soccer in Evansville. They wanted reassurances that the field area would be designed to be appropriate for soccer, without crowning, etc. Such assurances were given. They would like the fields to be ready as soon as possible for play.
7. West-Side Park work for 2006;
a. No actual work has been done on engineering prior grading the soccer field surface. Barbara Jacobson reported that she’s seen some work going on at the park. The City engineer reported (after this meeting) that work is currently focusing on getting the access to the new well house improved and grading a drainage ditch. Other work will begin soon.
b. Brad Fahlgren, 14016 Northridge Drive, and Kitty Verkuilan, 14357 W. Golf Air Drive, both representing the Soccer Club, requested assistance, as appropriate, in going forward with the soccer fields at the West Side Park. They also indicated their willingness to assist the city, as appropriate, in moving the project forward so that grading and seeding is done with turf appropriate for a soccer field. They reported that the club has a continuing problem maintaining the fields they use now and having enough field capacity for the growing number of people who play soccer in Evansville. They wanted reassurances that the field area would be designed to be appropriate for soccer, without crowning, etc. Such assurances were given. They would like the fields to be ready as soon as possible for play.
Countryside Park Update
The Park Board Minutes of April 17, 2006 has the following update on Countryside Park:
"8. Countryside Park Update
a, Ray Anderson reported that equipment for this park is expected to be delivered with the materials for Franklin Park, and that installation will proceed as soon as practical. It is also likely that old bleachers from Lake Leota Park will be refurbished and installed adjacent to the soccer fields in Countryside Park.
b. Ray Anderson reported that he has discussed the possibility of building a shelter with toilet facilities for Countryside Park with the teacher at the high-school (Rob Kestrone (spelling?)) who supervised the almost-complete bathrooms at Lake Leota Park. This teacher is expected to have a plan and estimated cost available by the next PRB meeting. If PRB decides to go ahead, it is likely that a pad may be poured for this facility later this summer.
c. The chair asked Mr. Fahlgren and Ms. Verkuilan, as active users of Countryside Park, about their opinion of removing the fence facing Water St. They indicated they thought it was a good idea, that with the fence as it is currently, it gets very muddy at the two small entrances to the park when it rains. They pointed out that other parks in the city are not fenced off from sidewalks or streets as Countryside is."
"8. Countryside Park Update
a, Ray Anderson reported that equipment for this park is expected to be delivered with the materials for Franklin Park, and that installation will proceed as soon as practical. It is also likely that old bleachers from Lake Leota Park will be refurbished and installed adjacent to the soccer fields in Countryside Park.
b. Ray Anderson reported that he has discussed the possibility of building a shelter with toilet facilities for Countryside Park with the teacher at the high-school (Rob Kestrone (spelling?)) who supervised the almost-complete bathrooms at Lake Leota Park. This teacher is expected to have a plan and estimated cost available by the next PRB meeting. If PRB decides to go ahead, it is likely that a pad may be poured for this facility later this summer.
c. The chair asked Mr. Fahlgren and Ms. Verkuilan, as active users of Countryside Park, about their opinion of removing the fence facing Water St. They indicated they thought it was a good idea, that with the fence as it is currently, it gets very muddy at the two small entrances to the park when it rains. They pointed out that other parks in the city are not fenced off from sidewalks or streets as Countryside is."
Monroe: School Board: Scott Schmidt elected President; Progressive Ways to Continue
Click on the post for the full story in the Monroe Times. Pres. Scott Schmidt clearly articulates the vision of Monroe Schools as brick and mortor as well as virtual and also envisions their new accelerated learning program.
Click and enjoy.
Click and enjoy.
Evansville schedules vote to remove limit on Class A beer licenses; Wed. May, 3, 2006 6PM--Public Hearing
According to the City of Evansville Web site:
"At 6:00 PM on Wednesday, May 3, 2006, the Public Safety Committee will hold a public hearing regarding Ordinance #2006-7, which would amend the Municipal Code to remove the restriction on the number of "Class A" beer licenses the city may issue. A "Class A" liquor or beer license permits the sale of closed containers for consumption elsewhere. Currently, the Municipal Code limits the number of "Class A" liquor licenses the city may issue to one for every 1,200 of population, and prohibits the city from issuing a "Class A" beer license separate from a "Class A" liquor license. Ordinance #2006-7 would allow the city to issue a "Class A" beer license separate from a "Class A" liquor license."
"At 6:00 PM on Wednesday, May 3, 2006, the Public Safety Committee will hold a public hearing regarding Ordinance #2006-7, which would amend the Municipal Code to remove the restriction on the number of "Class A" beer licenses the city may issue. A "Class A" liquor or beer license permits the sale of closed containers for consumption elsewhere. Currently, the Municipal Code limits the number of "Class A" liquor licenses the city may issue to one for every 1,200 of population, and prohibits the city from issuing a "Class A" beer license separate from a "Class A" liquor license. Ordinance #2006-7 would allow the city to issue a "Class A" beer license separate from a "Class A" liquor license."
On Alcohol; The Equation; The Mystery
Evansville Observer said...
If x equals the total alcohol consumption and y equals the total outlets retail and take out for alcohol, then x/y would be the sales per outlet.
If we continue to add increases in y, is it possible that there will continue to be folks selling alcohol but making no money doing so and closing their doors? Thus-----More would in fact be less.
The only hope, dispair of it is the possiblity that x or the consumption could continue to climb -------so we maybe only drink and give up eating food entirely so as to continue economic progress.
So. Is "More", in fact "Less." or is it the reverse? You make the call.
6:03 AM
If x equals the total alcohol consumption and y equals the total outlets retail and take out for alcohol, then x/y would be the sales per outlet.
If we continue to add increases in y, is it possible that there will continue to be folks selling alcohol but making no money doing so and closing their doors? Thus-----More would in fact be less.
The only hope, dispair of it is the possiblity that x or the consumption could continue to climb -------so we maybe only drink and give up eating food entirely so as to continue economic progress.
So. Is "More", in fact "Less." or is it the reverse? You make the call.
6:03 AM
Ethics Bill Fails
Click on the post for the latest for the latest on the Wisconsin legislation to improve ethics in the legislature compliments of the Journal Sentinal.
The Common Good
Click on the post for a thought provoking essay in The American Prospect on the prospects of the Democratic Party in the upcoming elections.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Finally---Self pay to get level playing field-- for one health group anyway
One of the injustices in the health care system--there are many---is that those who pay for their services themselves because of no insurance, must pay much, much more than an insured patient for the same service.
That is why when you go to the doctor and ask "How much will this cost?" The answer is ALWAYS---"That depends." It depends on WHO is paying the bill.
Now ONE health care group is changing that---Click on the post for the full story---- and giving self pay patients the same discount as the big third party payers.
It is about time. Now let's see everyone follow and get some transparency in the billing besides.
That is why when you go to the doctor and ask "How much will this cost?" The answer is ALWAYS---"That depends." It depends on WHO is paying the bill.
Now ONE health care group is changing that---Click on the post for the full story---- and giving self pay patients the same discount as the big third party payers.
It is about time. Now let's see everyone follow and get some transparency in the billing besides.
Mailbag: "Mason" writes: View from the Inside
Views from the Inside…
The re-organization of the city’s government has come and gone and now the city is getting down to business. And it appears as if business is moving smoothly so far.
On Monday May 1st the City’s Plan Commission, of which I became an appointed and confirmed member at our second re-organization meeting, included a public hearing of much interest. A gentleman of the name of Mr. Morice applied for a conditional use permit in the hopes of running a bowling alley/family entertainment center/sports bar on the east side of town. The Plan Commission held a public hearing and the public came out by means of a decent sized crowd.
The people who spoke, who were predominately not in favor of the granting of the conditional use permit, were very direct and to the point. The points made were strong arguments and proved responsible for guiding my vote and the votes of the rest of the committee. Therein lies the beauty of the public hearing, the people have the power.
So assuming you have people who care about an issue and an impartial panel of officials, democracy at a local level is not only possible, but guaranteed. Of course we cannot assume any of those things; but we can ask that people attend public hearings and that the officials on the board governing said hearing will be unbiased and willing to hear all arguments posed.
What is the moral of the story already? The upshot is you have to show up and participate at the committee meetings, not just the council meetings. And, of course, you have to vote.
There are a few public hearings coming up on the calendar to include, but not necessarily limited to a public hearing on the creation of TID #6 at next month’s Plan Commission meeting. Check your Observer and Review for the details. Now that it is in your hands…what will you do with it?
The re-organization of the city’s government has come and gone and now the city is getting down to business. And it appears as if business is moving smoothly so far.
On Monday May 1st the City’s Plan Commission, of which I became an appointed and confirmed member at our second re-organization meeting, included a public hearing of much interest. A gentleman of the name of Mr. Morice applied for a conditional use permit in the hopes of running a bowling alley/family entertainment center/sports bar on the east side of town. The Plan Commission held a public hearing and the public came out by means of a decent sized crowd.
The people who spoke, who were predominately not in favor of the granting of the conditional use permit, were very direct and to the point. The points made were strong arguments and proved responsible for guiding my vote and the votes of the rest of the committee. Therein lies the beauty of the public hearing, the people have the power.
So assuming you have people who care about an issue and an impartial panel of officials, democracy at a local level is not only possible, but guaranteed. Of course we cannot assume any of those things; but we can ask that people attend public hearings and that the officials on the board governing said hearing will be unbiased and willing to hear all arguments posed.
What is the moral of the story already? The upshot is you have to show up and participate at the committee meetings, not just the council meetings. And, of course, you have to vote.
There are a few public hearings coming up on the calendar to include, but not necessarily limited to a public hearing on the creation of TID #6 at next month’s Plan Commission meeting. Check your Observer and Review for the details. Now that it is in your hands…what will you do with it?
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Bishop Morlino Comes to Footville
It doesn't happen every day. A bishop coming to Footville. It happened last week as the parishes of St. Augustine of Footville and St. Paul's of Evansville celebrated the Confirmation of their youth together in Footville.
Confirmation is an interesting tradition in Christian communities. As Father Kevin Dooley had noted the week earlier in the practice rehersal, Confirmation reminded him of a favorite story. One day one of his family had discovered some bats in the attic. A relative who was a priest said, "No problem, I'll just come and Confirm them and we will never see them again."
So--while in theory the notion of Confirmation is that it is a deep religious event when the Holy Spirit comes to strengthen the young adult----the real mystery is that many of those same youth will not set foot in church again for a long time to come.
In the ceremony, as you may remember, the young person repeats the vows that the parent made for the young baby---Do you renounce Satan? etc. Now the child is free to speak for himself or herself. Many times, the Bishop who presides at Confirmation gives a real "fire and brimstone" type of sermon. The previous Bishop Bullock was famous for his sermon. One was so wired for the wiles of Satan, that one looked for Satan as one left Church. It was pretty vivid.
In Footville, on Tuesday, something remarkable happened. Bishop Morlino did not give a fire and brimstone sermon. He instead spoke of the risen Christ and how when He appeared on the road to the strangers and later to the Apostles, His wounds were present but "glorified." He went on to explain to the young boys and girls "that it was important to have realistic expectations on what a strong faith looks like. It is going forward with the wounds. It's not being made whole. "
The older folks in the church as I gazed over the crowd knew exactly what the Bishop was talking about. The Bishop himself had been recovering from a heart attack over the past year, and he too was going forward with some wounds. Anyway, the kids did seem to understand that presto the difficulties of youth were not going to be solved, but that they could get the strength to go forward----with their wounds.
All in all, a wonderful event. Thanks to Bishop Morlino and all who contributed to this happening.
Evansville Plan Commission: Reviews "Indoor Commercial Entertainment" proposal; Good Idea--Wrong Location
Last night the Evansville Planning Commission, to a packed house, began its first meeting with its new members, in a packed agenda. All in all, they were in mid-season form.
On the proposal by Bernardo Maurice to construct a family entertainment center off Brown School Road, there was a full audience of folks who spoke against the proposal---all because of the negative impact on their homes adjacent. Poor buffer from one zone to another. Safety. Traffic Hazard. Bill Hammann did note that these same neighbors have appeared for the other development on Brown School Road such as the Ace and The Bank of Evansville, and have been generally supportive.
The staff recommendation of the city was to deny the motion to approve.
One of the representatives of the AMF group that has constructed many of these bowling, entertainment centers nationwide said clearly to the audience that " You do not have a facility like this in your community. The days of the old bar are numbered. "
In summary, the notion of the Planning commission was that it was a good concept and design, and it might work across the road in the new area to be annexed but it would not work on Brown School Road.
All in all, excellent meeting. Public comments were kept to 2 minutes. The meeting moved along well.
I hope to have audioblogger with citizens input later when the satellite coverage improves. Anyone who attended the meeting who would like to add on the comment line, please do so.
On the proposal by Bernardo Maurice to construct a family entertainment center off Brown School Road, there was a full audience of folks who spoke against the proposal---all because of the negative impact on their homes adjacent. Poor buffer from one zone to another. Safety. Traffic Hazard. Bill Hammann did note that these same neighbors have appeared for the other development on Brown School Road such as the Ace and The Bank of Evansville, and have been generally supportive.
The staff recommendation of the city was to deny the motion to approve.
One of the representatives of the AMF group that has constructed many of these bowling, entertainment centers nationwide said clearly to the audience that " You do not have a facility like this in your community. The days of the old bar are numbered. "
In summary, the notion of the Planning commission was that it was a good concept and design, and it might work across the road in the new area to be annexed but it would not work on Brown School Road.
All in all, excellent meeting. Public comments were kept to 2 minutes. The meeting moved along well.
I hope to have audioblogger with citizens input later when the satellite coverage improves. Anyone who attended the meeting who would like to add on the comment line, please do so.
Cover the Uninsured Week
The rising number of Americans who do not have health insurance has grown to crisis levels. Half of the bankruptcies in America are related to finacial problems related to health care. Nationwide there are programs planned in every state addressing this problem this week.
Click on the post to review activities near us in Wisconsin.
Click on the post to review activities near us in Wisconsin.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Gazette Corner: Evansville Housing Market Cools
Gina Duwe has written an article in the Gazette today that covers the slowing Evansville housing market. Whether it is building permits or sales of existing homes, both have slowed. Click on the post for the full article.
Re: Unfortunate Misunderstanding about "Strip"
Bill Connors <bill.connors@ci.evansville.wi.gov> wrote:
Dick:I would appreciate it if you would post this message on the Observer blog site.In the Morningridge Subdivision in the City of Evansville, the Plan Commission recently approved dividing the parcel at the eastern edge of the subdivision (bounded by Brown School Road on the west, township residences on the north, the old quarry on the east, and USH 14 on the south) into two parcels. On the southern parcel created by this division, John Morning is constructing a building to lease to commercial tenants--some people have called this a "strip mall." On the northern parcel, a developer is seeking the Plan Commission's approval at the May 1 meeting to construct an indoor entertainment center--bowling alley, arcade, banquet facility. It appears that due to the close proximity of the words "strip" and "indoor entertainment center," some people have gotten the idea that someone is proposing to bring "adult entertainment" (i.e., a "strip joint") to the east side of Evansville.This is not true. Adult entertainment is not a permitted use in any zoning district in the City of Evansville, and is a conditional use only in the I-3 district. The only land in the City of Evansville that currently is zoned I-3 is located on the south side of Water St. near and including the city's waste water treatment plant and former dump.Bill Connors
Evansville City Administrator
31 S. Madison St.
P.O. Box 76
Evansville, WI 53536
(608) 882-2263
fax: (608) 882-2282
Agenda: Plan Commission: May 1, 2006 6:00PM
Evansville Plan Commission
Regular Meeting
Monday, May 1, 2006, 6:00 p.m.
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI
AGENDA
Call to order
Roll call
Approval of agenda
Approval of minutes
Motion to waive the reading of the April 3, 2006 minutes and approve them as printed
Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed
Unfinished business
Discussion regarding amending the Municipal Code relative to vehicular access in the B-1, B-2, B-3, B-4 and O-1 zoning districts
Update on text amendments to the City’s floodplain regulations so as to be consistent with state and federal requirements
Update on 2005 Assembly Bill 299 that would repeal a state requirement that county shoreland zoning applies to lands annexed in a city or village
Discussion regarding (1) the adoption of an ordinance banning outdoor furnaces in the city and an ordinance regulating the operation of existing outdoor furnaces, and (2) the adoption of an ordinance that would allow outdoor furnaces throughout the city and regulate their placement, design, and operation
New business
Public hearing date for Tax Incremental District No. 6
Motion to set a public hearing regarding the creation of Tax Increment District No. 6 for 6:00 PM on Monday June 5, 2006
Amendment to the final plat approval for Grand Orchard Estates to adjust various lot lines to facilitate construction of a berm
Motion to approve the proposed lot line adjustments for lots 35, 36, and 37 and outlot 3 of Grand Orchard Estates as depicted on the final plat reviewed on this date (May 1, 2006)
Release of 60-foot easement along USH 14 (John Morning)
Motion to authorize the City Administrator to sign the affidavit of correction for Certified Survey Map #1723826 and for Certified Survey Map #1626042 which removes the 60-foot easement along USH 14.
Conditional use application for indoor commercial entertainment off of Brown School Road – Bernardo Morice (Application #2006-12)
Initial presentation by applicant
Staff report, if any
Initial discussion by Plan Commission
Public hearing
Final discussion by Plan Commission
Closing comments by applicant
Motion and roll call vote to act on the application (not defer to a later date)
Motion to approve the application based on the findings as contained in the staff report and the conclusion that the public benefits of the proposed use outweigh any and all potential adverse impacts, if any
Zoning code text amendment regarding placement of signage on canopies in the B-1, B-3, and B-4 districts
Initial presentation staff
Initial discussion by Plan Commission
Public hearing
Final discussion by Plan Commission
Motion to recommend to Council the adoption of Ordinance #2006-8 as drafted
Location of sidewalk improvements along South Second Street between Lincoln Street and Fair Street
Motion to authorize the city to complete the sidewalk on South Second Street between Lincoln Street and Fair Street on the west side of the street rather than the east side
Discussion regarding the annual review of proposed amendments to the city’s smart growth comprehensive plan and adopting appropriate requirements
Motion to approve Plan Commission Resolution 2006-2, as drafted
Preliminary development presentations
Maas annexation and amendment to the interim future land use map in the city’s Smart Growth comprehensive plan
Report of the Evansville Redevelopment Authority – none
Report of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission – none
Report of the Evansville Large-Scale Commercial Development Study Committee
Report on presentation to Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce on April 20, public listening session held on April 27, and proposed timeline
City planner’s report
Update on Common Council actions relating to Plan Commission recommendations
Update on proposal to adopt architectural design standards
Update on fiscal impact analysis
Update on traditional neighborhood development (TND) standards
Update on proposed revisions to landscaping standards
Discussion regarding ex parte communication
Enforcement – Tom Nonn, dba Badger Cycle
Motion to adjourn
Mayor Sandy Decker, Plan Commission Chair
Regular Meeting
Monday, May 1, 2006, 6:00 p.m.
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI
AGENDA
Call to order
Roll call
Approval of agenda
Approval of minutes
Motion to waive the reading of the April 3, 2006 minutes and approve them as printed
Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed
Unfinished business
Discussion regarding amending the Municipal Code relative to vehicular access in the B-1, B-2, B-3, B-4 and O-1 zoning districts
Update on text amendments to the City’s floodplain regulations so as to be consistent with state and federal requirements
Update on 2005 Assembly Bill 299 that would repeal a state requirement that county shoreland zoning applies to lands annexed in a city or village
Discussion regarding (1) the adoption of an ordinance banning outdoor furnaces in the city and an ordinance regulating the operation of existing outdoor furnaces, and (2) the adoption of an ordinance that would allow outdoor furnaces throughout the city and regulate their placement, design, and operation
New business
Public hearing date for Tax Incremental District No. 6
Motion to set a public hearing regarding the creation of Tax Increment District No. 6 for 6:00 PM on Monday June 5, 2006
Amendment to the final plat approval for Grand Orchard Estates to adjust various lot lines to facilitate construction of a berm
Motion to approve the proposed lot line adjustments for lots 35, 36, and 37 and outlot 3 of Grand Orchard Estates as depicted on the final plat reviewed on this date (May 1, 2006)
Release of 60-foot easement along USH 14 (John Morning)
Motion to authorize the City Administrator to sign the affidavit of correction for Certified Survey Map #1723826 and for Certified Survey Map #1626042 which removes the 60-foot easement along USH 14.
Conditional use application for indoor commercial entertainment off of Brown School Road – Bernardo Morice (Application #2006-12)
Initial presentation by applicant
Staff report, if any
Initial discussion by Plan Commission
Public hearing
Final discussion by Plan Commission
Closing comments by applicant
Motion and roll call vote to act on the application (not defer to a later date)
Motion to approve the application based on the findings as contained in the staff report and the conclusion that the public benefits of the proposed use outweigh any and all potential adverse impacts, if any
Zoning code text amendment regarding placement of signage on canopies in the B-1, B-3, and B-4 districts
Initial presentation staff
Initial discussion by Plan Commission
Public hearing
Final discussion by Plan Commission
Motion to recommend to Council the adoption of Ordinance #2006-8 as drafted
Location of sidewalk improvements along South Second Street between Lincoln Street and Fair Street
Motion to authorize the city to complete the sidewalk on South Second Street between Lincoln Street and Fair Street on the west side of the street rather than the east side
Discussion regarding the annual review of proposed amendments to the city’s smart growth comprehensive plan and adopting appropriate requirements
Motion to approve Plan Commission Resolution 2006-2, as drafted
Preliminary development presentations
Maas annexation and amendment to the interim future land use map in the city’s Smart Growth comprehensive plan
Report of the Evansville Redevelopment Authority – none
Report of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission – none
Report of the Evansville Large-Scale Commercial Development Study Committee
Report on presentation to Evansville Area Chamber of Commerce on April 20, public listening session held on April 27, and proposed timeline
City planner’s report
Update on Common Council actions relating to Plan Commission recommendations
Update on proposal to adopt architectural design standards
Update on fiscal impact analysis
Update on traditional neighborhood development (TND) standards
Update on proposed revisions to landscaping standards
Discussion regarding ex parte communication
Enforcement – Tom Nonn, dba Badger Cycle
Motion to adjourn
Mayor Sandy Decker, Plan Commission Chair
Madison, Nation face changes in Water infrastructure; increased costs
Click on the post for the story of the water utiilty in Madison. For years they have not been spending the necessary money for replacement of ageing infrastructure---the rates have been very, very low, but the result has been for Madison, and the whole nation, the day of decision is near..... The decision to increase water rates to a rate that will avoid a huge crisis shortly down the road that would be overwhelming if a plan was not in place.
Click and enjoy.
Click and enjoy.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
What went wrong with natural gas?
Click on the post for a lengthy but interesting article on what went wrong with natural gas. Will the future supply problems be as difficult as those faced in California with the contract gamblers in charge? Are large homes a thing of the past? What went so terribly wrong with the dream of a clean burning fuel to power
America's homes? Click on the post and enjoy.
America's homes? Click on the post and enjoy.
Janesville Students and Virtual Schools----Janesville may begin virtual school Jan 2007
Click on the post for an article today in the Janesville Gazette regarding students from Janesville that attend virtual schools. The Janseville School District may open a Virtual School of its own in Janesville 2007. This may prevent students from leaving the district and may add many students as well. Stay tuned.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
"Fred" has the scoop on Special City Council meeting; Audioblogger Assist
Click on the post for the recap of "Fred" of the Special Common Council meeting last night. Click on the audioblogger to listen to the opening moves as the Council moves to suspend the rules and then undo the joint motion of the previous meeting that appointed both Ald Roberts and Ald Hammann to the Planning Commission. Enjoy.
Evansville Planning Commission; May 1, 2006; Schedules action on application for "Indoor, commercial, entertainment" facility off Brown School Road
According to the Evansville City web site, the action on Monday nite is as follows:
"At 6:00 PM on Monday, May 1, 2006, the Plan Commission will hold a public hearing regarding an application by Bernardo Morice for a conditional use permit for a indoor commercial entertainment developement on a lot at the east end of Brown School Road. Two sides of the lot border on property in the Town of Union. A conditional use permit is required in any zoning district for an indoor commercial entertainment business, which includes restaurants, taverns, theaters, health and fitness centers, dance studios, martial arts training centers, bowling alleys, roller rinks, and pool halls, because such activities often have operating hours that extend significantly later than most other commercial uses. "
Because of the fact that such "commercial uses" do have "operating hours that extend significantly later" and that this facility will adjoin a residential area and also because it is unclear what kind of "dance studio" might be applicable under the designation "commercial entertainment," some residents have some concerns about the pending application.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to The Evansville Observer.
"At 6:00 PM on Monday, May 1, 2006, the Plan Commission will hold a public hearing regarding an application by Bernardo Morice for a conditional use permit for a indoor commercial entertainment developement on a lot at the east end of Brown School Road. Two sides of the lot border on property in the Town of Union. A conditional use permit is required in any zoning district for an indoor commercial entertainment business, which includes restaurants, taverns, theaters, health and fitness centers, dance studios, martial arts training centers, bowling alleys, roller rinks, and pool halls, because such activities often have operating hours that extend significantly later than most other commercial uses. "
Because of the fact that such "commercial uses" do have "operating hours that extend significantly later" and that this facility will adjoin a residential area and also because it is unclear what kind of "dance studio" might be applicable under the designation "commercial entertainment," some residents have some concerns about the pending application.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to The Evansville Observer.
Evansville City Council; Moves to appoint Chris Eager to Redevelopment Authority for 5 year term; Discusses recusal in conflict of interest cases
The Evansville Common Council met on Friday, April 28, 2006 and appointed Chris Eager to the Redevelopment Authority for a five year term. There was considerable discussion of whether Mr. Eager would recuse himself in cases where he had a conflict of interest. Two cases were mentioned. The first is covered in the audiopost by Mr. Sorenson and was the vote to approve the new Bank at Union and Main. Mr. Eager cast the lone dissenting vote. The question was from some citizens whether this was due to the fact that this was a competitor as compared to the merits of the case.
The second case was the motion by Mr. Decker and second by Mr. Eager to approve the application of the Economy Store for 25% of 1.9 million where UB& T was identified as a possible banker of interest in the matter.
The council was told that Mr. Eager would recuse himself appropriately and the council voted unanimously to approve his appointment.
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MP3 File
The second case was the motion by Mr. Decker and second by Mr. Eager to approve the application of the Economy Store for 25% of 1.9 million where UB& T was identified as a possible banker of interest in the matter.
The council was told that Mr. Eager would recuse himself appropriately and the council voted unanimously to approve his appointment.
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MP3 File
Friday, April 28, 2006
Habitat for Humanity sponsors Bike Ride June 10;; To raise money for 14th home in Green County
Click on the post for info on the big bike event in Brodhead on June 10th to raise money for the 14th home built by Habitat for Hummanity in Green County.
New Computer Virus; Cripples computer and demands Ransom
Click on post for the latest of the Trojan viruses. This story was on Yahoo news. It requests a Western Union amount. I wonder where the closest Western Union is? The Observer will follow this story. Enjoy.
SPECIAL NEW RELEASE BLOWOUT SALE---Hometown Video--May 2006--rent Two get one FREE Monday through Thuesday
Click on the audiopost and listen to Barb talk about this special from Hometown Video for the month of May. Print this ad ad bring it in. Tell them the Observer sent you.
Re: Public Listening Session
Bill Connors <bill.connors@ci.evansville.wi.gov> wrote:
Dick:Would you please report on the Observer that no one showed up for last night's listening session regarding the draft recommendations from the Large Scale Commercial Development Study Committee? I find it hard to believe that even the developers in the city do not care about this.Bill Connors
Evansville City Administrator
31 S. Madison St.
P.O. Box 76
Evansville, WI 53536
(608) 882-2263
fax: (608) 882-2282
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Dateline Monroe Times: Letter to the Editor: Speaks on Gov. Doyle veto of Brett Davis virtual school bill
Click on the post for one readers view of the veto by Gov. Doyle of the bill of Brett Davis re. virtual schools.
Alternative Fuels; Companies emerge in Madison to meet market
Click on the post for an article in the Cap Times on several firms in Madison that are helping customers convert their autos and also obtain necessary fuel. Enjoy.
Gazette Corner: Mark Cufaude in the spotlight
Click on the post for a nice article in the Janesville Gazette on our own Mark Cufaude and his pole vaulting.
Gazette Corner: Wis. Gas Gouging Bills move to front burner
Wisconsin has no current gas gouging law and lawmakers are scrambling to enact one. Click on the post for the full story in the Janesville Gazette.
Nature vs Nurture: UN Study finds first 5 years are key; Nurture is critical
Click on the post for a United Nations study on child development. The first five years are key. Nurture is more important than Nature. Any surprises here?
You make the call.
You make the call.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
The American Dream; Myth; Reality
Click on the post for a recent study on the reality of the American Dream. You make the call.
Supreme Court Beat: Case heard today re immigration using RICO theory; Could have devastating impact on employers who hire illegals.
The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing today a case agains Mohawk, a carpet maker, who is accused of driving down wages by employing illegal immigrants. The case is being sued on the RICO statutes that normally are used against criminal underworld activities. It provides for double and treble damages. If other suits are allowed and suceed using the RICO, it would send a chilling message to employers not following current U.S. law. Stay tune.
Click on the post for the story in USA Today.
Click on the post for the story in USA Today.
Even the Wisconsin Council of Churches opposes TABOR or TPA; League of Municipalities also opposed.
The Wisconsin Council of Churches sees the potential impact of TPA as devastating for social services and sees this as an essential "social justice" issue.
Click on the post for access to The Wheeler Report. The Scroll down to the Council of Churches report.
Click on the post for access to The Wheeler Report. The Scroll down to the Council of Churches report.
Water and Light Rates Under Review: TONIGHT; Any approved change would be effective Sept 2006?
(Ed note. This is in response to my inquiry about when the last increase had been and what the future looked like for rates.)
Dick:
I am not aware of any increase in our utility rates as of Jan. 1, 2005. Our utility rates have not changed in many years. We have received draft studies of electric and water rate increases we would be justified in requesting. We have to go through a review process by the state Public Services Commissions to increase our rates. The rate increase are likely to take effect in Sept. or Oct. 2006. The city will publish information about the proposed rate increases at some point in the future. The draft studies will be discussed at tonight's Water & Light Committee meeting at 6:30 PM at the Water & Light garage on Old 92.
Bill Connors
Evansville City Administrator
31 S. Madison St.
P.O. Box 76
Evansville, WI 53536
(608) 882-2263
fax: (608) 882-2282
Dick:
I am not aware of any increase in our utility rates as of Jan. 1, 2005. Our utility rates have not changed in many years. We have received draft studies of electric and water rate increases we would be justified in requesting. We have to go through a review process by the state Public Services Commissions to increase our rates. The rate increase are likely to take effect in Sept. or Oct. 2006. The city will publish information about the proposed rate increases at some point in the future. The draft studies will be discussed at tonight's Water & Light Committee meeting at 6:30 PM at the Water & Light garage on Old 92.
Bill Connors
Evansville City Administrator
31 S. Madison St.
P.O. Box 76
Evansville, WI 53536
(608) 882-2263
fax: (608) 882-2282
The Ace Ventura --Pet Detective --Story of the Day
(Click on the post.) This story compliments of the Janesville Gazette wins the Observer distinguished "Ace Ventura Pet Detective Award" for this week. Congrats.
"Fred" invites input on "water concerns";
In his blog, "Fred" has invited concerned citizens who have expressed concerns about water on the west side, to contact him about a possible meeting about those concerns.
Click on the post.
Click on the post.
Reorganization; Authority and Responsibility; How shall we govern?
(Ed. note. Please excuse poor tone quality. Board discusses reporting formats, functional and detailed reports etc.)
Reorganizational Meeting. Doesn't seem too exciting. However, this is the meeting whether at the city or the school, where representatives elected by the citizens decide the details about how they will govern. Since sometimes, as in the case of the school, the election has just happened, you can listen as the new structure takes place. Sometimes you can sense a new way of conducting business--- a new style.
If you listen to the Evansville School Board discuss the details of how the Board receives detailed information from the principals and the administration, you can hear that the new Board wants to avoid the confusion that has resulted from two sets of reports---one set of detailed transaction reports and another report generated by excel spreadsheet manually. They are unable to make the two sets of reports reconcile. The need to know they do reconcile.
When times are flush with money, the phrase used to be "just throw the change over my shoulder". I briefly remember that phrase from my youth. Anyway, in lean budget times, everything matters, and you can hear in the audiotape that your elected board members are serious about knowing the detail. They understand that the community is counting on them. They understand that they are responsible.
This is the first meeting of the new Evansville School Board. As I see it, this was an excellent beginning. Stay tuned. The Observer is on the job.
Reorganizational Meeting. Doesn't seem too exciting. However, this is the meeting whether at the city or the school, where representatives elected by the citizens decide the details about how they will govern. Since sometimes, as in the case of the school, the election has just happened, you can listen as the new structure takes place. Sometimes you can sense a new way of conducting business--- a new style.
If you listen to the Evansville School Board discuss the details of how the Board receives detailed information from the principals and the administration, you can hear that the new Board wants to avoid the confusion that has resulted from two sets of reports---one set of detailed transaction reports and another report generated by excel spreadsheet manually. They are unable to make the two sets of reports reconcile. The need to know they do reconcile.
When times are flush with money, the phrase used to be "just throw the change over my shoulder". I briefly remember that phrase from my youth. Anyway, in lean budget times, everything matters, and you can hear in the audiotape that your elected board members are serious about knowing the detail. They understand that the community is counting on them. They understand that they are responsible.
This is the first meeting of the new Evansville School Board. As I see it, this was an excellent beginning. Stay tuned. The Observer is on the job.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
"Walton" comments on Gazette op ed piece on public notice of meetings
Click on the post for the comments of "Walton" on the idea floated by the Gazette on public meeting notice.
Secretaries Week ---April 24-28 ---Evansville Floral Standing By
Click on the post for the web site for Evansville Floral. Handy to get prices and make selections for Secretaries Week, April 24-28.
Tell them The Observer sent you.
Tell them The Observer sent you.
Volunteers Needed:
For further information contact:
Karla Sendelbach, 608-882-6587, sendelbachka@evansville.k12.wi.us
or
Fred Juergens, 608-882-2489, fredjuergens@charter.net
Volunteers Needed
The Evansville Park & Recreation Board is looking for volunteers (individual/groups/organizations) who are willing to help plant and maintain flowerbeds throughout our local parks and/or to make monetary donations to cover planting expenses.
An informational and organizational meeting will be held in Lake Leota Park at the Upper Park Shelter near the corner of Grove Street and North Second Street on
Saturday, May 6th,, 2006
at 10:00 a.m.
If you are interested in participating and can not attend this meeting, please contact either Karla Sendelbach, 882-6587 or Fred Juergens, 882-2489.
Your support will be greatly appreciated.
Karla Sendelbach, 608-882-6587, sendelbachka@evansville.k12.wi.us
or
Fred Juergens, 608-882-2489, fredjuergens@charter.net
Volunteers Needed
The Evansville Park & Recreation Board is looking for volunteers (individual/groups/organizations) who are willing to help plant and maintain flowerbeds throughout our local parks and/or to make monetary donations to cover planting expenses.
An informational and organizational meeting will be held in Lake Leota Park at the Upper Park Shelter near the corner of Grove Street and North Second Street on
Saturday, May 6th,, 2006
at 10:00 a.m.
If you are interested in participating and can not attend this meeting, please contact either Karla Sendelbach, 882-6587 or Fred Juergens, 882-2489.
Your support will be greatly appreciated.
Monroe: School Beat: Private Donation funding proposal keeps all four band instructors
Click on the post for the story from Monroe where private funding is proposed to keep all four music instrumental instructors.
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
If you are going to visit the Mall of America, make a note that the Mystic Lake Casino Hotel near Prior Lake is the official casino of the Mall of America.
It features five restaurants, gambling, (click on the post for the details.) and the full Vegas feeling with a few exceptions---but major ones.
One of the "pro bono" staff of The Evansville Observer, one of the "stringers" in the news biz so to speak, the younger brother of The Observer himself, attended a corporate function there last weekend.
His observation is that the Casino is ALCOHOL FREE----so the effect when you enter the casino is that folks are smoking up a storm.....and as the excitement of the evening goes on.....rather than reaching for another drink.....the gambler folks reach for another smoke-----the result is really, really, really smokie.
So, when we consider the benefits of allocating a portion of the Wisconsin landscape near us to gambling, the Observer hopes that we will not duplicate the "Mystic" experience here. The next thing that might happen is that someone might ban cheese...or even brats.... which would be devastating.
It features five restaurants, gambling, (click on the post for the details.) and the full Vegas feeling with a few exceptions---but major ones.
One of the "pro bono" staff of The Evansville Observer, one of the "stringers" in the news biz so to speak, the younger brother of The Observer himself, attended a corporate function there last weekend.
His observation is that the Casino is ALCOHOL FREE----so the effect when you enter the casino is that folks are smoking up a storm.....and as the excitement of the evening goes on.....rather than reaching for another drink.....the gambler folks reach for another smoke-----the result is really, really, really smokie.
So, when we consider the benefits of allocating a portion of the Wisconsin landscape near us to gambling, the Observer hopes that we will not duplicate the "Mystic" experience here. The next thing that might happen is that someone might ban cheese...or even brats.... which would be devastating.
Minutes: Economic Development: 3-21-2006
CITY OF EVANSVILLE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Minutes of meeting
Tuesday March 21, 2006 5:30pm
Roll call.
Ald Aikman, Mr. Arnold, Mr. Decker, Mr. Otterstein, Ald. Anderson, Mr. Berg, Mr. Edmonds, Mr. Bass.
Approval of agenda.
Mr. Decker asked that item 5 be removed, Mr. Decker was thanked.
Approval of minutes of February 28, 2006 meeting.
Motion passed
Citizen appearances, other than on items listed below.
Wendy Soucie of Sortis
_Expression of Gratitude to Mr Decker for Chairing the February meeting.
See above item 2
Discussion of Presentation by Wendy Soucie of Sortis and decision on course of action to recommend to Council if any.
The discussion was lengthy and centered around Mr. Ottersteins recommendation that between RA Smith and UW-Extension, the UW was the better fit. Mr. Otterstein found the UW proposal had a greater focus on implementation. Mr. O informed the committee that the price ranged from $11,700 -$19,000 and conceivably could extend out for the life of the TIF, or 20 years because of the ability to add on additional data.
Because the cost of $19,000 exceeds the yearly budget of ED, which is only $5,000, it was suggested by Mr. Decker that perhaps ED could solicit enough contribution from other interested committees such as RDA, that
Going before Council for the funds would not be necessary.
A motion was made by Mr. Berg, and seconded by Ald Anderson as follows:
Motion to accept UW-Extension as vendor with a cap of $!9,000 with details to be worked out at the next meeting with the understanding Economic Development will contribute a percentage to be determined. - Motion passed
Recommendations for future agenda items.
It was agreed the next meeting in April would focus on developing the presentation to other committees and choosing two Economic Development committee members to make the presentations together.
D&D Proposal for Annexation on the May agenda.
Adjournment.
Karen Aikman, Chair
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Minutes of meeting
Tuesday March 21, 2006 5:30pm
Roll call.
Ald Aikman, Mr. Arnold, Mr. Decker, Mr. Otterstein, Ald. Anderson, Mr. Berg, Mr. Edmonds, Mr. Bass.
Approval of agenda.
Mr. Decker asked that item 5 be removed, Mr. Decker was thanked.
Approval of minutes of February 28, 2006 meeting.
Motion passed
Citizen appearances, other than on items listed below.
Wendy Soucie of Sortis
_Expression of Gratitude to Mr Decker for Chairing the February meeting.
See above item 2
Discussion of Presentation by Wendy Soucie of Sortis and decision on course of action to recommend to Council if any.
The discussion was lengthy and centered around Mr. Ottersteins recommendation that between RA Smith and UW-Extension, the UW was the better fit. Mr. Otterstein found the UW proposal had a greater focus on implementation. Mr. O informed the committee that the price ranged from $11,700 -$19,000 and conceivably could extend out for the life of the TIF, or 20 years because of the ability to add on additional data.
Because the cost of $19,000 exceeds the yearly budget of ED, which is only $5,000, it was suggested by Mr. Decker that perhaps ED could solicit enough contribution from other interested committees such as RDA, that
Going before Council for the funds would not be necessary.
A motion was made by Mr. Berg, and seconded by Ald Anderson as follows:
Motion to accept UW-Extension as vendor with a cap of $!9,000 with details to be worked out at the next meeting with the understanding Economic Development will contribute a percentage to be determined. - Motion passed
Recommendations for future agenda items.
It was agreed the next meeting in April would focus on developing the presentation to other committees and choosing two Economic Development committee members to make the presentations together.
D&D Proposal for Annexation on the May agenda.
Adjournment.
Karen Aikman, Chair
Audioblogger: Evansville School Board Election: Michael Pierick elected new President
(Ed note. Click on the audio symbol. Listen to the nominations, the speeches, the wait till the ballots are counted.....and the decision. )
Newsflash: Michael Pierick named new Evansville School Board President; Mr. Hatfield named VP.
On a 4-3 vote this evening, Mr. Michael Pierick was named President of the Evansville School Board. Mr. Hatfield was named V.P., Mr. Willoughby was named Clerk and Art Phillips was named Treasurer.
Prior to the vote for President, Mr. Pierick stated that the reason he was running for President is that he thought the budget process needed improvement from the most recent process.
The board then went over the budget and discussed various items. The final section of the meeting was termed a "budget retreat".
More on the meeting tomorrow. The Observer
Prior to the vote for President, Mr. Pierick stated that the reason he was running for President is that he thought the budget process needed improvement from the most recent process.
The board then went over the budget and discussed various items. The final section of the meeting was termed a "budget retreat".
More on the meeting tomorrow. The Observer
Open Meeting Law: Right to record audio and video
(Ed. note: The following is text from the sample Mass. Open Meeting law regarding taping of public meetings as well as video. P. 25. Click on the post for the full text.)
"Except when a meeting is held in executive session, any person in attendance may record the meeting with a tape recorder or any other method of sonic reproduction, so long as no active interference with the conduct of the meeting arises as a result of the recording. The Law also allows any person attending an open meeting of a municipal or district governmental body to videotape the meeting from one or more fixed locations as determined by the governmental body, so long as there is no active interference with the meeting."
The Observer has posted this so all my dear readers may know that taping public meetings is not only normal for the news media, but is normal and customary in open meeting law legislation.
There is one important proviso however-----it would appear that the person recording could not move around during the meeting hoping to get a better audio or video position and thereby disrupt the meeting.
So there it is. The purpose of recording is to get the story straight. And it is not only allowed and tolerated, but it is protected by law. Make a note of it.
"Except when a meeting is held in executive session, any person in attendance may record the meeting with a tape recorder or any other method of sonic reproduction, so long as no active interference with the conduct of the meeting arises as a result of the recording. The Law also allows any person attending an open meeting of a municipal or district governmental body to videotape the meeting from one or more fixed locations as determined by the governmental body, so long as there is no active interference with the meeting."
The Observer has posted this so all my dear readers may know that taping public meetings is not only normal for the news media, but is normal and customary in open meeting law legislation.
There is one important proviso however-----it would appear that the person recording could not move around during the meeting hoping to get a better audio or video position and thereby disrupt the meeting.
So there it is. The purpose of recording is to get the story straight. And it is not only allowed and tolerated, but it is protected by law. Make a note of it.
Disorderly Conduct; A time to speak; A time to be still
(The following is text from the sample open meeting law of Massachusetts that pertains to disorderly conduct. P.27. Click on the post for the full text)
'Insofar as meetings of governmental bodies at the municipal or district level are concerned, the Law specifies that no person may address a meeting of the governmental body without permission of the presiding officer, and that all persons shall be silent at the request of the presiding officer. If a person persists in disorderly behavior in such a meeting after warning from the presiding officer, the officer may order him or her to withdraw from the meeting. If the disorderly person does not withdraw, the presiding officer may order a constable or another person to remove the offender and confine him or her in some convenient place until the meeting is adjourned. "
Agenda: Economic Development Committee--Tuesday, April 25, 2006 6:00PM
CITY OF EVANSVILLE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Notice of Meeting
and Agenda
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
6:00 p.m.
Please take notice that the next meeting of the City of Evansville Economic Development Committee will take place on April 25, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. at the 2nd Floor of the Evansville City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin. The agenda for the meeting is as follows:
1. Roll call.
2. Introduction of new committee members and designation of chairperson pro tem.
3. Approval of agenda.
4. Approval of minutes of March meeting.
5. Citizen appearances, other than on items listed below.
6. Report and recommendation to Common Council re: trade market analysis and grant funding.
7. Report and funding commitment re: joint session with Chamber of Commerce and Evansville Community Partnership, to be moderated by Bert Stitt.
8. Report on establishment of Main Street Construction Task Force.
9. Discussion of possible agenda items for future meetings (not for action during current meeting).
10. Adjournment.
John R. Decker, Member
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Notice of Meeting
and Agenda
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
6:00 p.m.
Please take notice that the next meeting of the City of Evansville Economic Development Committee will take place on April 25, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. at the 2nd Floor of the Evansville City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin. The agenda for the meeting is as follows:
1. Roll call.
2. Introduction of new committee members and designation of chairperson pro tem.
3. Approval of agenda.
4. Approval of minutes of March meeting.
5. Citizen appearances, other than on items listed below.
6. Report and recommendation to Common Council re: trade market analysis and grant funding.
7. Report and funding commitment re: joint session with Chamber of Commerce and Evansville Community Partnership, to be moderated by Bert Stitt.
8. Report on establishment of Main Street Construction Task Force.
9. Discussion of possible agenda items for future meetings (not for action during current meeting).
10. Adjournment.
John R. Decker, Member
Monday, April 24, 2006
Gazette Corner: Small School Districts turn to Health care consortiums to battle rising premiums
Some small school districts are banding together to fight rising health care premiums in the midst of the revenue cap environment for schools. Click on the post for the latest.
Gazette Corner: Gina Duwe covers the South Pole-Evansville Story
Click on the post for the story by Gina Duwe of a local Evansville man and his job at the South Pole.
Help Wanted: Normal School District: Seasonal
(Ed. Note. This advertisement was seen up in Minnesota near Normal, Mn., close to Lake Woebegon. It is reprinted faithfully in hopes someone can be found fully qualified.)
Window Washer seasonal part time sought for rural school district in Northern Minnesota. High flexibility required for washing windows and repetitive stooping and reaching. Must be able to mix proper soap and water for appropriate solutions.
This seasonal temporary part time position features 18.75 hours per week with no benefits.
Experience with Windows XP is preferred. Some knowledge of digital file handling with .wave format preferred. Experience with spreadsheet analysis and powerpoint a plus as well as wordperfect version 99.123.
All applicants must apply in person. Normal School District, Normal, Mn. All replies confidential. The Normal School District is an equal opportunity employer.
Window Washer seasonal part time sought for rural school district in Northern Minnesota. High flexibility required for washing windows and repetitive stooping and reaching. Must be able to mix proper soap and water for appropriate solutions.
This seasonal temporary part time position features 18.75 hours per week with no benefits.
Experience with Windows XP is preferred. Some knowledge of digital file handling with .wave format preferred. Experience with spreadsheet analysis and powerpoint a plus as well as wordperfect version 99.123.
All applicants must apply in person. Normal School District, Normal, Mn. All replies confidential. The Normal School District is an equal opportunity employer.
Email and the Open Meeting Law
(Ed. Note. Citizens may not realize that emails can create problems of compliance with the open meeting law. I have quoted from the Mass. Open Meeting Law for review.)
"With the advent of computers, it has become more common for persons, both at home and at work, to communicate through electronic mail, or "email." Like private conversations held in person or over the telephone, email conversations among a quorum of members of a governmental body that relate to public business violate the Open Meeting Law, as the public is deprived of the opportunity to attend and monitor the "meeting." Thus it is a violation to email to a QUORUM messages that can be considered invitations to reply in any medium, and would amount to deliberation on business that must occur only at proper meetings. It is not a violation to use e-mail to distribute materials, correspondence, agendas or reports so that committee members can prepare individually for upcoming meetings."
Because of the limitations of the Open Meeting Law, you will note that most governmental units have a "spokesperson" that will respond in uniform public fashion--rather than individual members of a unit. In the case where a "public" media is not available for uniform response, the unit of government might choose not to respond till a properly noticed meeting occurred and the issue of interest could be discussed in a proper forum.
If "information" is sought, on a particular point of fact, you will note that governmental leaders such as city managers or superintendents will issue "information" memos as opposed to engage in debate as such.
I invite comments and clarifications from our own city administrator, Mr. Connors, as to this post. I did miss the famous city council meeting, known as the St. Valentines Day meeting, during which this issue was discussed.
"With the advent of computers, it has become more common for persons, both at home and at work, to communicate through electronic mail, or "email." Like private conversations held in person or over the telephone, email conversations among a quorum of members of a governmental body that relate to public business violate the Open Meeting Law, as the public is deprived of the opportunity to attend and monitor the "meeting." Thus it is a violation to email to a QUORUM messages that can be considered invitations to reply in any medium, and would amount to deliberation on business that must occur only at proper meetings. It is not a violation to use e-mail to distribute materials, correspondence, agendas or reports so that committee members can prepare individually for upcoming meetings."
Because of the limitations of the Open Meeting Law, you will note that most governmental units have a "spokesperson" that will respond in uniform public fashion--rather than individual members of a unit. In the case where a "public" media is not available for uniform response, the unit of government might choose not to respond till a properly noticed meeting occurred and the issue of interest could be discussed in a proper forum.
If "information" is sought, on a particular point of fact, you will note that governmental leaders such as city managers or superintendents will issue "information" memos as opposed to engage in debate as such.
I invite comments and clarifications from our own city administrator, Mr. Connors, as to this post. I did miss the famous city council meeting, known as the St. Valentines Day meeting, during which this issue was discussed.
Evansville School District: Agenda: Special Meeting, Monday, April 24, 2006--HS LMC, 6:15PM
On the agenda are:
1) Annual Board Reorganization
a) Election of Officers
b) Discussion of Committees, Determine Committee Structure and Make assignments
c) Determine Meeting Time and Dates
2) Business( Action Items)
a) Approval of 2006-7 Teacher Contracts
b) Approval of Selection for Delegate for CESA 2
3) Board/Administrative Team Retreat:
a) Discussion of Budget Planning 2006-07 and Beyond
(Ed. note. The above is a summary of the agenda. Official public notice of the agenda is at the Eager Library and on the official school site. )
1) Annual Board Reorganization
a) Election of Officers
b) Discussion of Committees, Determine Committee Structure and Make assignments
c) Determine Meeting Time and Dates
2) Business( Action Items)
a) Approval of 2006-7 Teacher Contracts
b) Approval of Selection for Delegate for CESA 2
3) Board/Administrative Team Retreat:
a) Discussion of Budget Planning 2006-07 and Beyond
(Ed. note. The above is a summary of the agenda. Official public notice of the agenda is at the Eager Library and on the official school site. )
Friday, April 21, 2006
"The Facts and nothing But the Facts."; How History and stories are written
(This story is written in celebration of my college professor David W. Noble of the U of Minn on the occasion of his 80th birthday. Fifteen years ago they established a Special Chair in his honor, the usual token of retirement. David never noticed. Today his schedule is busier than ever. Hundreds of his students have been inspired by Dave over the years to go into teaching. Yes, he published 10 books----but teaching was the love of his life. Happy Birthday, Dave.)
Years ago, one of my favorite shows, was Dragnet. I think some of this series was in black and white---anyway, Jack Webb would speed to the scene in that old 1940's Dodge and interview the witness. "The facts and nothing but the facts," he would say. It really was a struggle between the lies and the facts. Pure and simple.
Later when I was in college, of of my prof's favorite phrases was "The facts and nothing but the facts." Not in a reverential tone of voice, but in a satiric tone. In American History, due to the influence of The Frontier Thesis, there had grown the myth that America was not like anyone else----on the frontier we were purified by nature and we did not have any of those foreign European crazy ideas like aristocracy, religion or superstition. We lived in touch with real down home reality. Thus, in the long tradition of Presidents, even if our President say went to Yale, we still always thought of him as one of those down home cowboys just tending the ranch. Each President has a little of the cowboy in him.
The major point of all my prof's teasing was that when you write something----you cannot get out of the fact that YOU are involved. You have a point of view. Before you even lift up the pen it is best to understand where you are coming from or what you write is probably going to be nonsense. Whether it about local politics or national politics or just a fictional sketch, there is just no such thing as total understanding of what "the neutral facts" are. If there were such a thing, there would not be such a big effort to write the story or even understand what it was all about.
Thus--most folks who say "You didn't get the facts straight," many times really mean that the story was not written the way they would have preferred. Instead of making the person look like a hero, some embarassing fact may have been revealed. Alas.
I even have the problem sometimes with the camera. When folks take a picture of me, I simply say "That's not the way I really look. That is a bad picture." In fact, it has even extended to mirrors. I feel so young, but the mirror just does not do me justice. I have solved this by removing the mirrors.
Recently during a local election, one correspondent from a paper asked me "Do you think you are OBJECTIVE?"
My reply was, "HUH?" "I just begin the story. My readers finish it. They correct me along the way. "
I always enjoyed that Dragnet show. It is just too bad that life did not turn out so black and white. Something broke down somewhere -----like that old 1940's Dodge. I don't ever remember Jack Webb having so many stories from a suspect that he finally blew up because he got confused about the facts. The facts came pretty quickly. After all he just had a half hour show.
In life, and in the news biz, sometimes the facts take a whole lot longer than a half hour. Stay tuned.
(Click on the post for a bio sketch of Frederick Jackson Turner. He was an important charter Prof of the U. of Wisconsin and author of The Frontier Thesis.)
Years ago, one of my favorite shows, was Dragnet. I think some of this series was in black and white---anyway, Jack Webb would speed to the scene in that old 1940's Dodge and interview the witness. "The facts and nothing but the facts," he would say. It really was a struggle between the lies and the facts. Pure and simple.
Later when I was in college, of of my prof's favorite phrases was "The facts and nothing but the facts." Not in a reverential tone of voice, but in a satiric tone. In American History, due to the influence of The Frontier Thesis, there had grown the myth that America was not like anyone else----on the frontier we were purified by nature and we did not have any of those foreign European crazy ideas like aristocracy, religion or superstition. We lived in touch with real down home reality. Thus, in the long tradition of Presidents, even if our President say went to Yale, we still always thought of him as one of those down home cowboys just tending the ranch. Each President has a little of the cowboy in him.
The major point of all my prof's teasing was that when you write something----you cannot get out of the fact that YOU are involved. You have a point of view. Before you even lift up the pen it is best to understand where you are coming from or what you write is probably going to be nonsense. Whether it about local politics or national politics or just a fictional sketch, there is just no such thing as total understanding of what "the neutral facts" are. If there were such a thing, there would not be such a big effort to write the story or even understand what it was all about.
Thus--most folks who say "You didn't get the facts straight," many times really mean that the story was not written the way they would have preferred. Instead of making the person look like a hero, some embarassing fact may have been revealed. Alas.
I even have the problem sometimes with the camera. When folks take a picture of me, I simply say "That's not the way I really look. That is a bad picture." In fact, it has even extended to mirrors. I feel so young, but the mirror just does not do me justice. I have solved this by removing the mirrors.
Recently during a local election, one correspondent from a paper asked me "Do you think you are OBJECTIVE?"
My reply was, "HUH?" "I just begin the story. My readers finish it. They correct me along the way. "
I always enjoyed that Dragnet show. It is just too bad that life did not turn out so black and white. Something broke down somewhere -----like that old 1940's Dodge. I don't ever remember Jack Webb having so many stories from a suspect that he finally blew up because he got confused about the facts. The facts came pretty quickly. After all he just had a half hour show.
In life, and in the news biz, sometimes the facts take a whole lot longer than a half hour. Stay tuned.
(Click on the post for a bio sketch of Frederick Jackson Turner. He was an important charter Prof of the U. of Wisconsin and author of The Frontier Thesis.)
Minutes: Redevelopment Authority; March 21, 2006 7PM
Evansville Redevelopment Authority
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, March 21, 2006, 7:00 PM
City Hall, 31 S. Madison St., Evansville, WI
MINUTES
The meeting was called to order at 7:10 PM. Present were Ald. Anderson, Betsy Ahner, Dean Arnold, and John Decker. Ald. Aikman was absent. Chairperson Hagen and Vice-Chairperson Eager arrived during the discussion of agenda item 8a. James Otterstein, Rock County Economic Development Manager, and Bill Connors, Executive Director, also were present.
The agenda was modified as follows: add item 8b, trade market analysis study; add item 8c, discussion of encouraging Main Street businesses to apply for financial assistance for alternative entrances; add item 8d, discussion of date of April regular meeting; and change preliminary agenda item 8b, closed session, to item 8e. The agenda was approved as modified.
Motion by Ahner, seconded by Anderson, to approve the minutes of the February 26, 2006, regular meeting with on correction: on page 2, it should read, “Based on a suggestion by Mr. Otterstein.” Motion passed.
Citizen Appearances Other Than Agenda Items Listed None.
Unfinished Business
The commissioners continued their discussion of the “pay back” provision in section 5 of the agreement with Triple B Investments regarding the Badger Coach Building. Mr. Connors presented two versions of possible new text for the provision and a calculation of the annual payments that would be due from Triple B Investments to the Redevelopment Authority under either version of the new text. Roger Berg for Triple B Investments said the owner would prefer to have the city assessor increase the value of the property on the property tax roll so that it complied with the target value in the agreement. The commissioners directed Executive Director Connors to ask the city assessor to look at the property again and see whether the value on the property tax roll should be increased.
New Business
The commissioners discussed why the property at 357 Union St. was omitted from TID No. 5. Jim Krueger, the owner of the property, said his parcel should not have been excluded based on a conversation between Executive Director Connors and Rick Symdon of Symdon Chevrolet, as disclosed in email message from Mr. Connors to members of the Redevelopment Authority and Plan Commission. Mr. Krueger said there never was an offer from Symdon Chevrolet to purchase his property. He wanted to know how the city was going to make this right.
Mr. Connors said he had a conversation with Rick Symdon months before the Redevelopment Authority started discussing the possibility of enlarging TID No. 5 in 2005. Mr. Symdon asked Mr. Connors if Symdon Chevrolet’s and Mr. Krueger’s property could be included in TID No. 5. When Mr. Connors asked what improvements Symdon wanted to make and might seek assistance for, Mr. Symdon said the dealership might want to acquire Mr. Krueger’s property, knock down the building, and expand their parking lot. Mr. Connors said he told Mr. Symdon this would not generate tax increment revenue, and instead would reduce the amount of tax increment revenue, and so it was not a good candidate for tax increment assistance. Mr. Connors said that months later, when the Redevelopment Authority started discussing enlarging TID No. 5, he remembered this earlier conversation, and excluded Mr. Krueger’s property from the list of parcels to avoid creating a risk of losing tax increment revenue. Chairperson Hagen said he spoke with Mr. Symdon, and Mr. Symdon told him Symdon Chevrolet has no immediate plans to acquire Mr. Krueger’s property and to knock down the building. Roger Berg said he also said he spoke to Mr. Symdon, and Mr. Symdon never asked Mr. Connors to exclude Mr. Krueger’s property. Mr. Connors said that is correct.
The commissioners asked Mr. Krueger what sort of redevelopment project he might come forward with if his parcel is added to TID No. 5. Mr. Krueger said it is not his obligation to come forward with a proposal in order for his property to be included in the district.
Executive Director Connors suggested that the Redevelopment Authority could publish a notice asking if anyone wants to have their property added to TID No. 5. Motion by Eager, seconded by Anderson, directing Mr. Connors to publish a notice informing property owners that they could come to the April meeting of the Redevelopment Authority and request to have their property included in or removed from TID No. 5. Motion passed.
Mr. Otterstein informed the commissioners that the Economic Development Committee has been working with Sortis LLC to identify economic-development related grants the city might apply for, and tentatively concluded that two grants the city might apply for could be used to fund a trade market analysis study. A trade market analysis would examine where the people come from who purchase goods and services in Evansville and where the residents of Evansville purchase goods and services. This data could be helpful to existing businesses for ideas for new goods and services to provide, and for potential new businesses in Evansville. The estimated cost of the study is $19,000, and would take 3 months to a year to complete. In addition to or instead of the grant, sources of funding for the study could be the Economic Development Committee, Redevelopment Authority, and the Chamber of Commerce.
The commissioners discussed how to encourage Main Street businesses to apply for financial assistance for creating or improving alternative (i.e., rear or side) entrances to their businesses. Ms. Ahner expressed concern that no downtown businesses have yet applied for this assistance. She suggested that maybe the Redevelopment Authority should establish what it was willing to contribute to such projects, e.g., 30% of the cost to a maximum of $1,000 of assistance. Mr. Otterstein suggested that the Building Improvement Grant Program could be modified to provide assistance with alternative entrances.
Chairperson Hagen suggested that maybe there should be a meeting between David Sauer, City Engineer, and downtown businesses owners to discuss how difficult it would be for them to create alternative entrances to their businesses.
Tess Gruenstein, intern from Beloit College, briefed the commissioners on her efforts to reach downtown businesses owners about the 2007 Main Street Reconstruction Project, and asked for suggestions on how to encourage business owners to speak with her. One suggestion was that Executive Director Connors should work with Mr. Sauer to create a fact sheet about the project to distribute to downtown business owners, in hopes this would stimulate their interest in discussing the project. Another suggestion was that Ms. Gruenstein should seek assistance from Becky Heimerl and Trish Graves at the Chamber of Commerce.
Executive Director Connors reported that the next regular meeting date for the Authority, Tuesday, April 18, conflicts with the Council reorganization meeting that evening. The consensus of the commissioners was the next meeting of the Authority should be on Tuesday, April 25.
Motion by Eager, seconded by Anderson, to go into closed session pursuant to Wis. Stats. Sec. 19.85(1)(e) to discuss possibly pursuing the purchase of or acquisition of options to purchase property located within TID No. 5, subject to approval by the Common Council. The motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote at 8:20 PM.
Motion by Anderson, seconded by Ahner, to adjourn. Motion passed.
The meeting adjourned at 8:52 PM.
Prepared by
William E. Connors, Executive Director
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, March 21, 2006, 7:00 PM
City Hall, 31 S. Madison St., Evansville, WI
MINUTES
The meeting was called to order at 7:10 PM. Present were Ald. Anderson, Betsy Ahner, Dean Arnold, and John Decker. Ald. Aikman was absent. Chairperson Hagen and Vice-Chairperson Eager arrived during the discussion of agenda item 8a. James Otterstein, Rock County Economic Development Manager, and Bill Connors, Executive Director, also were present.
The agenda was modified as follows: add item 8b, trade market analysis study; add item 8c, discussion of encouraging Main Street businesses to apply for financial assistance for alternative entrances; add item 8d, discussion of date of April regular meeting; and change preliminary agenda item 8b, closed session, to item 8e. The agenda was approved as modified.
Motion by Ahner, seconded by Anderson, to approve the minutes of the February 26, 2006, regular meeting with on correction: on page 2, it should read, “Based on a suggestion by Mr. Otterstein.” Motion passed.
Citizen Appearances Other Than Agenda Items Listed None.
Unfinished Business
The commissioners continued their discussion of the “pay back” provision in section 5 of the agreement with Triple B Investments regarding the Badger Coach Building. Mr. Connors presented two versions of possible new text for the provision and a calculation of the annual payments that would be due from Triple B Investments to the Redevelopment Authority under either version of the new text. Roger Berg for Triple B Investments said the owner would prefer to have the city assessor increase the value of the property on the property tax roll so that it complied with the target value in the agreement. The commissioners directed Executive Director Connors to ask the city assessor to look at the property again and see whether the value on the property tax roll should be increased.
New Business
The commissioners discussed why the property at 357 Union St. was omitted from TID No. 5. Jim Krueger, the owner of the property, said his parcel should not have been excluded based on a conversation between Executive Director Connors and Rick Symdon of Symdon Chevrolet, as disclosed in email message from Mr. Connors to members of the Redevelopment Authority and Plan Commission. Mr. Krueger said there never was an offer from Symdon Chevrolet to purchase his property. He wanted to know how the city was going to make this right.
Mr. Connors said he had a conversation with Rick Symdon months before the Redevelopment Authority started discussing the possibility of enlarging TID No. 5 in 2005. Mr. Symdon asked Mr. Connors if Symdon Chevrolet’s and Mr. Krueger’s property could be included in TID No. 5. When Mr. Connors asked what improvements Symdon wanted to make and might seek assistance for, Mr. Symdon said the dealership might want to acquire Mr. Krueger’s property, knock down the building, and expand their parking lot. Mr. Connors said he told Mr. Symdon this would not generate tax increment revenue, and instead would reduce the amount of tax increment revenue, and so it was not a good candidate for tax increment assistance. Mr. Connors said that months later, when the Redevelopment Authority started discussing enlarging TID No. 5, he remembered this earlier conversation, and excluded Mr. Krueger’s property from the list of parcels to avoid creating a risk of losing tax increment revenue. Chairperson Hagen said he spoke with Mr. Symdon, and Mr. Symdon told him Symdon Chevrolet has no immediate plans to acquire Mr. Krueger’s property and to knock down the building. Roger Berg said he also said he spoke to Mr. Symdon, and Mr. Symdon never asked Mr. Connors to exclude Mr. Krueger’s property. Mr. Connors said that is correct.
The commissioners asked Mr. Krueger what sort of redevelopment project he might come forward with if his parcel is added to TID No. 5. Mr. Krueger said it is not his obligation to come forward with a proposal in order for his property to be included in the district.
Executive Director Connors suggested that the Redevelopment Authority could publish a notice asking if anyone wants to have their property added to TID No. 5. Motion by Eager, seconded by Anderson, directing Mr. Connors to publish a notice informing property owners that they could come to the April meeting of the Redevelopment Authority and request to have their property included in or removed from TID No. 5. Motion passed.
Mr. Otterstein informed the commissioners that the Economic Development Committee has been working with Sortis LLC to identify economic-development related grants the city might apply for, and tentatively concluded that two grants the city might apply for could be used to fund a trade market analysis study. A trade market analysis would examine where the people come from who purchase goods and services in Evansville and where the residents of Evansville purchase goods and services. This data could be helpful to existing businesses for ideas for new goods and services to provide, and for potential new businesses in Evansville. The estimated cost of the study is $19,000, and would take 3 months to a year to complete. In addition to or instead of the grant, sources of funding for the study could be the Economic Development Committee, Redevelopment Authority, and the Chamber of Commerce.
The commissioners discussed how to encourage Main Street businesses to apply for financial assistance for creating or improving alternative (i.e., rear or side) entrances to their businesses. Ms. Ahner expressed concern that no downtown businesses have yet applied for this assistance. She suggested that maybe the Redevelopment Authority should establish what it was willing to contribute to such projects, e.g., 30% of the cost to a maximum of $1,000 of assistance. Mr. Otterstein suggested that the Building Improvement Grant Program could be modified to provide assistance with alternative entrances.
Chairperson Hagen suggested that maybe there should be a meeting between David Sauer, City Engineer, and downtown businesses owners to discuss how difficult it would be for them to create alternative entrances to their businesses.
Tess Gruenstein, intern from Beloit College, briefed the commissioners on her efforts to reach downtown businesses owners about the 2007 Main Street Reconstruction Project, and asked for suggestions on how to encourage business owners to speak with her. One suggestion was that Executive Director Connors should work with Mr. Sauer to create a fact sheet about the project to distribute to downtown business owners, in hopes this would stimulate their interest in discussing the project. Another suggestion was that Ms. Gruenstein should seek assistance from Becky Heimerl and Trish Graves at the Chamber of Commerce.
Executive Director Connors reported that the next regular meeting date for the Authority, Tuesday, April 18, conflicts with the Council reorganization meeting that evening. The consensus of the commissioners was the next meeting of the Authority should be on Tuesday, April 25.
Motion by Eager, seconded by Anderson, to go into closed session pursuant to Wis. Stats. Sec. 19.85(1)(e) to discuss possibly pursuing the purchase of or acquisition of options to purchase property located within TID No. 5, subject to approval by the Common Council. The motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote at 8:20 PM.
Motion by Anderson, seconded by Ahner, to adjourn. Motion passed.
The meeting adjourned at 8:52 PM.
Prepared by
William E. Connors, Executive Director
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Agenda: Redevelopment Authority--Tuesday, April 25, 2006 7PM
Evansville Redevelopment Authority
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 25, 2006, 7:00 PM
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin
AGENDA
Call to order.
Roll call (Chairperson Hagen, Vice-Chairperson Eager, Ald. Hammann, Ald. Wyse, Betsy Ahner, Dean Arnold, and John Decker).
Approval of agenda.
Motion to approve minutes of March 21, 2006, regular meeting as presented.
Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed.
Public hearing regarding possible changes to boundaries of Tax Incremental District (TID) No. 5.
Brief statement by the Executive Director regarding the history of TID No. 5, process for changing the boundaries of the district, and purpose of the public hearing.
Statements by anyone requesting to have property included in or removed from TID No. 5.
Statements of all other persons in favor of granting the request.
Statement in rebuttal by persons opposing the request.
Statements in rebuttal by anyone making a request and by other persons favoring the request.
Statements in rebuttal by persons opposing the request.
Statements by any persons not previously heard but only on matters not previously discussed.
Closing of the hearings or, if necessary, adjournment of the hearing to a fixed future date.
Unfinished business.
Update regarding possible revaluation by city assessor of Badger Coach Building at 133 N. Madison St., which was prompted by the provision in redevelopment agreement with Triple B Investments LLC for return of a portion of the grant if the full market value of the improvements was not as much as provided in the agreement.
Update on research regarding past data on inflationary increases in value and changes in property tax rate applicable to tax increments.
New business.
Presentation of reports by Tess Gruenstein and David Hariman, interns from Beloit College.
Discussion and possible motion requesting Common Council to approve program to provide financial assistance for creating or improving alternative entrances to businesses on the route of the 2007 Main St. reconstruction project.
Motion to adjourn.
Bill Connors, Executive Director
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 25, 2006, 7:00 PM
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin
AGENDA
Call to order.
Roll call (Chairperson Hagen, Vice-Chairperson Eager, Ald. Hammann, Ald. Wyse, Betsy Ahner, Dean Arnold, and John Decker).
Approval of agenda.
Motion to approve minutes of March 21, 2006, regular meeting as presented.
Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed.
Public hearing regarding possible changes to boundaries of Tax Incremental District (TID) No. 5.
Brief statement by the Executive Director regarding the history of TID No. 5, process for changing the boundaries of the district, and purpose of the public hearing.
Statements by anyone requesting to have property included in or removed from TID No. 5.
Statements of all other persons in favor of granting the request.
Statement in rebuttal by persons opposing the request.
Statements in rebuttal by anyone making a request and by other persons favoring the request.
Statements in rebuttal by persons opposing the request.
Statements by any persons not previously heard but only on matters not previously discussed.
Closing of the hearings or, if necessary, adjournment of the hearing to a fixed future date.
Unfinished business.
Update regarding possible revaluation by city assessor of Badger Coach Building at 133 N. Madison St., which was prompted by the provision in redevelopment agreement with Triple B Investments LLC for return of a portion of the grant if the full market value of the improvements was not as much as provided in the agreement.
Update on research regarding past data on inflationary increases in value and changes in property tax rate applicable to tax increments.
New business.
Presentation of reports by Tess Gruenstein and David Hariman, interns from Beloit College.
Discussion and possible motion requesting Common Council to approve program to provide financial assistance for creating or improving alternative entrances to businesses on the route of the 2007 Main St. reconstruction project.
Motion to adjourn.
Bill Connors, Executive Director
Gazette Corner: Gina Duwe covers where we are on Lake Leota
Click on the post for the recent article by Gina Duwe that is background for the meeting next week that will discuss Lake Leota.
Mailbag: "Hardy Boy writes": Re: WKRP in Evansville?
Frank Hardy <whyhardyboy@yahoo.com> wrote:
When I was a kid our family didn't have a lot of material possessions. I wasn't as bad as Patches, but close. My siblings and I used our imagination to recreate popular T.V. shows and come up with our own dialog while staying in character. Sometimes it was Knight Rider other times it was Family Ties, but the one that we had the most fun with was WKRP in Cincinnati.
We would all try to play our favorites, mine was Johnny Fever. With only three kids, no one ever had had to be Les Nessman or Herb Tarlek. We all knew our roles since that was one of the few shows that we could watch. When someone played Andy Travis, you knew for sure, since he was in a position of power and persuasiveness, he would bypass the token station manager Mr. Carlson and go over his head to his behind the scenes mother and get what he wants. We always knew that Andy got what he wanted or else. When he had an idea that would help him look better he made sure he used his power and got it.
With Mr. Carlson, well, I guess he was called the Manager, but everyone that was involved with the end product knew he was a pawn with a nameplate. He really had no power and would act like he did by getting upset a lot, but in the end, Andy and his mother ran the show.
Herb Tarlek was the cheesy sales guy trying to make the station more appealing and help direct its future. He tried luring new companies to use there station to increase business and exposure. Herb put on a tough guy front, though everyone close to him knew he was all talk and no action, a pushover. My best description of Herb, he's just a bad pickup line and a tacky suit.
And then Les Nessman, he was the butt of every ones jokes, garnered no respect, and tried so hard to get people to see his point of view. He was serious about what he did, was the utmost professional, but in the end he accomplished nothing more than amusing those around him with his optimism and dedication.
I miss childhood, the make believe and pretend things we used to do. As and adult these things will never happen again. In the end it was a just a T.V. show.
On an unrelated note, best of wishes to the new Mayor, new and existing City Councilmen, City Administrator and Business People/Developers for a productive next year.
The case of the "emergency meeting"
The Open Meeting Law has an interesting description of what constitutes an "emergency." If you click on the post and proceed to page 13, you can review.
Just calling something a "special" or an "emergency" meeting does not make it so. As in the example cited on page 14 "a board of selectmen acting as the local licensing board convenes an emergency meeting because it has just been informed by the potential purchaser of a restaurant that unless the purchaser receives approval of the transfer of a liquor license that day, he will lose his option to purchase. This is not the type of emergency that justifies an emergency meeting because the circumstances calling for immediate action is the private financial interest of the purchaser, not an event or act relating to the licensing board's responsibilities. "
So--private financial interest is not an acceptable reason for calling for an emergency meeting.
It is good to know that a strict interpretation of the word "emergency" will eliminate 95% of the emergency meetings we have been holding in our fair city. What a cost saving that will be.
Just calling something a "special" or an "emergency" meeting does not make it so. As in the example cited on page 14 "a board of selectmen acting as the local licensing board convenes an emergency meeting because it has just been informed by the potential purchaser of a restaurant that unless the purchaser receives approval of the transfer of a liquor license that day, he will lose his option to purchase. This is not the type of emergency that justifies an emergency meeting because the circumstances calling for immediate action is the private financial interest of the purchaser, not an event or act relating to the licensing board's responsibilities. "
So--private financial interest is not an acceptable reason for calling for an emergency meeting.
It is good to know that a strict interpretation of the word "emergency" will eliminate 95% of the emergency meetings we have been holding in our fair city. What a cost saving that will be.
"The Budget Retreat"
Over the years, whether it has been in sales in the securities business or in the insurance business, I have been to some pretty awesome "team building" events. Some were pretty outlandish.
One such event was an "emergency" "top priority" sales event in New York City, where brokers were flown in and after attending a sunset cocktail pre-session at the World Trade Center overlooking all of the kingdom, sales staff were treated to a sales pump session for a new airline private placement offering----one of those now outlawed private partnerships that was for rebuilt 747's. At the highlight of the sales pitch, the leader chanted "They'll fly forever" which the brokers repeated till the walls echoed. Then at the peak of frenzy, the leaders threw towels out into the auditorium "ala Elvis style" with the logo of the airline on them.
You all may remember the "rest of the story." After the brokers had returned on the red eye flight on Sunday nite, they awoke on Monday to learn that "Aloha Airlines" had the top of one of it's airplanes blow off. So much for "They'll fly forever."
Ever since that incident----I have been a little wary of those private "team building" sessions. Maybe it was the picture of all those passengers clinging to the seats as the airplane decended.
So-----I have approached with some calm sensibility the news that our beloved school district is headed off to a "team building" event called a "budget retreat."
The problem, of course, is that budgets and short and long range planning are NOT among the NINE acceptable exceptions to the Open Meeting Law-----as seen in the prior post. Yes. We all should have been invited.
As many of my dear readers remember, there was pervasive and intense public involvement in the planning of the new Evansville High School and there has always been open debate in matters of annual budgeting. There is no question that public discussion may be uncomfortable because there may be differences. However, the last time I checked at the dinner table, and yes teens are involved, there are some pretty vigorous areas of difference in all sorts of matters. It comes with the territory.
It's time to open wide the doors. Let the discussion begin. After all. This is not a marriage encounter weekend. It's about budgeting. Big difference.
(Ed. Note: Click on the post to access the model Open Records statute; The NINE exceptions allowed for executive session begin on Page 29)
One such event was an "emergency" "top priority" sales event in New York City, where brokers were flown in and after attending a sunset cocktail pre-session at the World Trade Center overlooking all of the kingdom, sales staff were treated to a sales pump session for a new airline private placement offering----one of those now outlawed private partnerships that was for rebuilt 747's. At the highlight of the sales pitch, the leader chanted "They'll fly forever" which the brokers repeated till the walls echoed. Then at the peak of frenzy, the leaders threw towels out into the auditorium "ala Elvis style" with the logo of the airline on them.
You all may remember the "rest of the story." After the brokers had returned on the red eye flight on Sunday nite, they awoke on Monday to learn that "Aloha Airlines" had the top of one of it's airplanes blow off. So much for "They'll fly forever."
Ever since that incident----I have been a little wary of those private "team building" sessions. Maybe it was the picture of all those passengers clinging to the seats as the airplane decended.
So-----I have approached with some calm sensibility the news that our beloved school district is headed off to a "team building" event called a "budget retreat."
The problem, of course, is that budgets and short and long range planning are NOT among the NINE acceptable exceptions to the Open Meeting Law-----as seen in the prior post. Yes. We all should have been invited.
As many of my dear readers remember, there was pervasive and intense public involvement in the planning of the new Evansville High School and there has always been open debate in matters of annual budgeting. There is no question that public discussion may be uncomfortable because there may be differences. However, the last time I checked at the dinner table, and yes teens are involved, there are some pretty vigorous areas of difference in all sorts of matters. It comes with the territory.
It's time to open wide the doors. Let the discussion begin. After all. This is not a marriage encounter weekend. It's about budgeting. Big difference.
(Ed. Note: Click on the post to access the model Open Records statute; The NINE exceptions allowed for executive session begin on Page 29)
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Lake Leota Bridge
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Evansville, Wisconsin-----Soybean Capital of Wisconsin
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Gov. Doyle Proclaims Evansville Soybean Capital of Wis
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