OpEd: Will Supreme Court Outlaw mandatory car insurance?

In areas of public interest, where the theory of large numbers requires a large number of participants, states have routinely held that citizens must obtain car insurance in order to validly drive an automobile. If one would conclude from the Supreme Courts arguments today that a nation cannot insist in the matter of public health and safety of insisting on health insurance being obtained either through a pool, or individually, then one wonders whether mandatory auto insurance will be next... or taxes themselves... Why should I be required to pay taxes...or eat brocolli....or wear a helmet....Maybe the Supreme Court can set a standard so broad that it will make collecting taxes impossible and thus reduce the size of government and create anarchy to the complete delight of the fundamentalist brethern....Alleluia.

Audio: Bernanke: (April 2008)

Nostalgia: Fed: Audio: Senator asks: Do you know more than they about CDO etc. The answer is telling.


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Public Works: Jan 2012: Wind Turbine production below plan

(Ednote: Minutes: Public Works: January 2012) Wind turbine: Committee received an updated summary of the energy production of the turbine. Our average wind speed from September 2010 and December 2011 (11 mph) is 2.1 mph less than the energy site assessment (12.1 mph) so we are a bit short of our contracted kw hours to WPPI. 2011 was approximately $1,100. Basically we are simply not getting the volume of wind we have in the past. Braunschweig asked how the numbers related between assessed wind and actual wind in communities like Fort Atkinson and Wausau. Wausau is behind more than us and there is no information from Fort Atkinson. Bottom line is that weather is cyclical and we should recoup that lost wind. Additionally the levels of work that are coming from the wind turbine are reaching our warranty levels. As far as the overall contract goes this is just one factor and we still have many good factors in our overall favor such as ownership of the green energy credits and the fact that the price we get for each kw hour is, at this time, more than double what we pay. Additionally Sauer looked into ways to get this energy production information out to the public. One option is that Northern Power Systems provides an online kiosk called the ‘public view’ (or page) that would show energy production to public for $4500 for a 5 year license. Another option would be to simply take the spreadsheets of energy production provided by the city engineer and put it on the city’s website. That option would only cost the city the nominal work hours it would take an employee to do that. There were 2 other options that wouldn’t have as nice a site as Northern’s, just the raw data, but would cost the city $3500 to $4500 with potential overhead costs. Benefit to those would be potential one-time cost and ownership of site with the Sulzer consulting proposal.

Public Works Meets Today, Tuesday, March 27, 2012

NOTICE The regular meeting of the Public Works Committee for the City of Evansville will be held on the date, time, and place stated below. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance. Public Works Committee Regular Meeting Tuesday, March 27th, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. DPW Shop, 535 South Madison Street, Evansville, WI AGENDA 1. Call meeting to order. 2. Roll call 3. Motion to approve the agenda as presented. 4. Motion to approve the minutes from the January 24th, 2011 regular meeting. [Note: February’s regular meeting was cancelled.] 5. Citizen Appearances- a. Grove Society – (Will be here to discuss the Civil War Event May 18-20th, 2012.) 6. Construction Updates- 7. Site plan reviews- 8. Communications from the City Engineer- a. Discussion regarding rail crossing at Main St. near the Main/Union intersection. 9. Communications from the Public Works Director- a. Discussion and possible motion regarding the parking situation at the Eager Economy building. b. Discussion and possible motion to approve the advertising and hiring of part-time employee(s) for summer cemetery and park work. c. Discussion and possible motion for request for proposals for Walker St. sewer lining project. d. Discussion and possible motion for potential storm sewer issue on Kinsey Ct. e. Monthly Department Report – 10. New Business- 11. Old Business- 12. Parks and Recreation Report- 13. Motion to adjourn meeting. Mason Braunschweig, Chair Public Works Committee Please turn off all cell phones during the meeting. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation.

Baseball News---Home Talent Baseball Evansville

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact Info: Jon Frey, 608-882-4626 “STRIKE OUT FOR BASEBALL” EVANSVILLE HOME TALENT TEAM HOSTS FUNDRAISER The Evansville Home Talent Baseball Team’s 7th annual 9 pin tap bowling tournament fundraiser “STRIKE OUT FOR BASEBALL” was held on Saturday, March 10 and Saturday, March 17 at the Evansville Bowl. The fundraiser only had 50 bowlers, compared to 108 bowlers in 2011, compete for the coveted top prize and bragging rights. The top ten bowlers were: 1) John Paugel, 2) Jeremy Rasmussen, 3) Bridget Rauch, 4) Terry Jorgenson, 5) BJ Cook, 6) Dave Paugel, 7) Mike Rauch, 8) John Rasmussen, 9) Ryan Wiedel, 10) Andy Wells. For the rest of the bowling results, raffle prize winners and event pictures, please visit the Jays website at www.evansville.hometalent.org. The Jays would like to recognize and thank the following businesses who donated raffle prizes: Milwaukee Bucks, Beloit Snappers, Madison Mallards, Radio Shack of Evansville, Rock N’ Rollz Sandwiches, Paul Revere’s Pizza, Evansville Oil Pros and Mid Town Pub. Also, The Night Owl provided two for one drink tickets for participating bowlers. The Evansville Home Talent Baseball team is busy preparing for the upcoming 2012 season. New for 2012, the Jays will be playing all of their games at the upper diamond at Lake Leota Park. The Jays would like to see you at the ball park this summer. The team is currently looking for sponsors/advertisers for the upcoming season. Be part of the Jays marketing and promotional plans. Your business will be promoted on the team’s printed schedules, listed on the team’s website, mentioned during games and in weekly game stories in The Review. If you are interested in sponsorship, contact one of the players or Jon Frey at 608-575-4359 for more info. The Jays will open up the 2012 season at Jefferson on Sunday, May 6. For a complete season schedule and results, please visit www.evansville.hometalent.org.

Peoples Legislature Coming Sunday, March 25, 2012

http://www.fightingbob.com/article.cfm?articleID=1450 Check out the complete article in Fighting Bob that goes over the details of the FREE event at the Alliant Center on Sunday, March 25, 2012.

Barrons Magazine says housing prices Ready to Rebound

Barrons magazine, right on the cover, last Saturday heralded the news that "Home Prices Ready to Rebound" as they have done for the past six years at this time of the year.....and it appears that hedge funds and speculators are very ready for that prediction to come true....and also those who have homes to sell I might add...which is most of America. And then on Thursday, interest rates rose on thirty year mortgages and bond yields rose as their face value declined.....all because they had not read Barrons and followed the plan....please folks, lets get on the same page. Remember what Ben has said...that rates will remain low until 2013.....lets not get frisky and upset the plan.

NOTICE The regular meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission for the City of Evansville will be held on the 21st day of March, 2012, at 6:30 p.m, at City Hall, 31 South Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin, or alternate location. Notice is further given that any members of the City Council or the Mayor might be in attendance. Evansville Historic Preservation Commission Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, March 21, 2012 2nd Floor, Conference Room, City Hall 6:30pm ***First Draft*** 1. Call to Order, Char. Rich Modaff 2. Roll Call 3. Motion to waive reading of the February 15, 2012 minutes and approve them as read. 4. Applications – Appearances a. 119 E. Main Street C.U.P. — Storefront Restoration (Downtown) b. 103 S. Third Street Modaff— Roof (Plaque) c. 227 Garfield Ave Arneson — Consultation 5. Old Business a. Motion to allocate $500 for the Rally Round The Flag-2nd Annual Civil War Living History Event, May 18 -20, 2012 b. Motion to allocate $50 for scholarship to attend WAPHPC in Madison, April 2012. c. Antes Cabin Relocation 6. Administrative a. Grove Society, John Decker i. Baker Building Museum ii. Meeting b. Management of HPC Documents and Records c. Landmark & Historic District Discussions i. Discussion of Additional Historic Districts ii. Discussion of Historic Landmarks, John Decker iii. Plaque Program Applications 7. Other Business a. Correspondences b. Comments and Concerns. c. Others 8. Adjournment Next Meeting Dates: 04/18/2012 RDM Monday, March 19, 2012

Concerned about Red Meat Health Affects? Fox News TONIGHT

Concerns Rise About Red Meat – (Segment Bumped to Tonight) For many of us born and raised in Wisconsin, red meat is as much a part of our diets as milk. But did you know more studies show that red meat, even in small quantities isn’t good for us? In fact, new research is pointing to the health benefits of taking it out of our diets altogether. Tonight on Fox 47 News at 9p, Dean & St. Mary’s Cardiac Dietitian Mandee Vimont talks about what makes red meat so unhealthy and offers some tips on how to cut back.

Nostalgia :Art Asks: Is it just the money?

(Ed.note: Over 1700 downloads of this video indicate high interest) Art Phillips asks Rep. Brett Davis to explain the results of various school districts with wide differences of per pupil aid. Is it just the money?

Nostalgia: School Board--6-25-2007--4 Period Day

Four Period Day Reviewed---After comprehensive community involvement with independent consultant----Surprised to find how happy everyone is with the 4 Period Day

2007 : School Beat: Construction Home

2007: Supr. Heidi Carvin explains that the school district cannot get a contractor loan and therefore the construction costs for the home must come out of the fund balance

School Layoffs Coming

EVANSVILLE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Board of Education Special Meeting Agenda Wednesday, March 14, 2012 7:00 p.m. District Office Conference Room 340 Fair Street Note, public notice of this meeting given by posting at the District Office, Levi Leonard Elementary School Office, Theodore Robinson Intermediate School Office, J.C. McKenna Middle School Office, High School Office, Evansville School District Web Site: Evansville.k12.wi.us, and by forwarding the agenda to the Evansville Review, M&I Bank, Union Bank & Trust and Eager Free Public Library I. Roll Call: Dennis Hatfield Kathi Swanson Eric Busse John Rasmussen Tina Rossmiller Sharon Skinner Nancy Hurley II. Executive Session – Under Wisconsin Statute 19.85(1)(c) to Discuss Lay Offs and Personnel.

Nostalgia: Jamie Fellows Speaks: "What's the Point?"

Current Daycare providers serve 142 childrens of possible 150 in Evansville. 4K proposal is duplication of services.

2007 Evansville High Junior Prom Court Pt II

(Ed.note; With over 700 downloads, this is a very popular video of Observer readers) 2nd part of 2 of Evansville High School Junior Prom Court, May 12, 2007, plus presentation of Queen and King.

Baseball Fans: "Strike Out for Baseball" News

“STRIKE OUT FOR BASEBALL” EVANSVILLE HOME TALENT 7TH ANNUAL BOWLING FUNDRAISER On Saturday, March 10, the Evansville Home Talent Baseball Team hosted the first weekend of their 7th annual 9 pin tap bowling tournament fundraiser “STRIKE OUT FOR BASEBALL”. This Saturday, March 17 is the last chance to participate. Bowling takes place at the Evansville Bowl with shifts at 4:30 pm and 8:00 pm. Included with the $20 entry fee is a drink ticket provided by The Night Owl of Evansville. Reserve you lane by contacting tournament manager, Jeremy Rasmussen at 608-290-2664 or emailing him at jeremyr2@gmail.com. For more information and raffle prize list visit the team’s website at www.evansville.hometalent.org or find the event on Facebook.

Broader Marketing needed: Tourism Subcomittee

If you listen to the audio of the Tourism subcommittee, you can hear in the presentation of the consultant that with respect to the current residents of Evansville, they have their essential needs met with current businesses in Evansville, and in addition they purchase from Madison or Janesville where they work....IF one could market a broader brush to neighboring residents, then some business addition could survive......that is an IF that depends on REACHING OUT to the citizens that live in the ramblers in neighboring areas to include them in the market---which they are NOT at this time. Listen to the audio. Enjoy.

Oped: The New Tourism---Snowmobile Tourism

Recently at the Tourism Subcomittee in Evansville, when the surveys were tabulated, you can hear in the audio of the meeting, a person asserting that "of course most of the focus of the tourism must be for the downtown". However---- I had the pleasure to taking a weekend up at Manitowish Waters and visited "Little Bohemia" on a Saturday night for dinner----it was wonderful, as as we were exiting I took a visit to the brand new bar with big screen tv--it was playoff weekend, and as the game ended, the visitors--fully garbed in snowmobile gear came out--i had seen the trucks outside with the trailers, and also snowmobiles parked, but had not put everything together---it was a great weekend to combine snowmobile fun with football, with great dining....In summary, there was plenty of money spent that night. In Evansville, on a winter night how many snowmobiles come to town....to visit local pubs? I think you would be amazed to know this number. My point is why not have a weekend in the midst of the snow season, a "Celebrate Snowmobile Weekend". Maybe there could be some seminars on maintanance, apparel, trails, travel etc that folks could attend in the day and linedancing in the evening...and they could drive their snowmobiles in to town in designated routes. Snowmobile tourism....they are coming here anyway...why not make a bigger event out of it and celebrate with them, and develop this tourism component?

Nostalgia: 2007: Prof. Georgia Duerst-Lahti Speaks

(Ednote: Over 1200 downloads over the past 4 years speak to the popularity of this short analysis.) On the Theory of 35 Acres per household---On the necessity of reviewing this model as the Town of Union looks to future--


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I and E Meets March 14th: Inventor to speak

Making Money out of Rain As the saying goes, when it rains, it pours. When it literally rains too much, it’s a shame to lose all that free garden rainwater as runoff into drains. One do-it-yourselfer figured out a way to capture rainwater and store it. Even better, the storage doesn’t turn your backyard into a rain barrel warehouse. Instead, decorative benches hold 65-plus gallons of water while serving as patio furniture and party seats. The innovator of these benches is landscape designer Scott Gear, who is the featured speaker at the next meeting of the Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club. Set for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 14, the meeting will be hosted at Creekside Place, 102 Maple St., Evansville. Middleton-based Gear has two businesses, Gear Landscape Design Studio and SecondRain. Gear will talk about the invention-to-market process, how he found distributors, and what he’s hearing from buyers. Guests will have time to ask questions, and participate in the famous networking round robin. It’s a one-minute opportunity to promote a business, invention or quest for information or connections. To encourage lingering and small group discussions, refreshments will be served. This month, refreshments are sponsored by Cindy Hammer and Hammer Builders. With a focus on detail, Hammer Builders designs and builds smarter, more functional homes using energy efficient, sustainable methods and materials. Hammer says, “We strive to create homes that nurture the character and spirit of the people living in them, rather than just impressing friends and neighbors with scale.” Call 608-774-6382 for more information about Hammer Builders, or follow them on their Facebook page. The I&E Club is free and meetings are open to the public. The club has a presence on LinkedIn, and after “joining” the group, anyone can post information. Just look for “Evansville Area Inventors and Entrepreneurs Club” under the Groups category at www.linkedin.com. To be added to the email notification list or to get more information, contact club officers Sue Berg at 608-333-1664 or suebergsolutions@gmail.com, or John Gishnock III at 608-314-6656 or john.g@formecology.com. END

Retail Market Research Status Meeting TOMORROW 3/8/2012

City of Evansville Special Meeting Retail Market Research Status Meeting Thursday, March 8, 2012, 5:30 p.m. Creekside Place, 102 Maple Street, Evansville There will be a status meeting of work groups formed to implement the recommendations of the Ady-Voltedge Retail Market Analysis for the City of Evansville. A general meeting agenda is: 1. Report of visioning committee, with consensus reached by all meeting attendees to proceed with new vision (15 minutes). 2. Break-out session of five work groups (30 minutes). 3. Report out from work groups, including next action step(s) of each group (15 minutes). 4. Summarize next actions of work groups and set next date for check-in status meeting for all (10 minutes). A majority of the Evansville Common Council and the Economic Development Committee may be present and actively participating in the meeting. A majority of any City Committee—including but not limited to Redevelopment Authority, Plan Commission, and Finance Committee—may be present and actively participating in the meeting. No formal action will be taken by the Common Council or any City Committee during the meeting. Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible. Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.

OpEd; The New "Political Tourism" Bonanza for Wisconsin: "Come to Wisconsin, Bring it On!!"

Today in RockNetRoots blog, there is a post regarding the plan of Tea Party folks to come to Wisconsin and participate heavily in the Recall Election of Gov. Scott Walker: Here is the post: http://rocknetroots.blogspot.com/2012/03/video-invaders-told-to-get-out-of.html There seems to be a notion that folks coming here is somehow a threat----I think we need to stand back here---Recently when I was in Florida for a short, short getaway, I went to a Friday night fish fry at a local restaurant---It Was "Wisconsin Night"----There were so many folks from Wisconsin, Minnesota and Canada that they had to separate them out....Badgers, Gophers and those "darn Canadians". When I walked into the restaurant it was like old home week---everybody was dressed in red...festive laughter all over the place, and did I say it was warm---yup it was 70 degrees. Folks from Florida loved it bein in the recession and all, they were just wonderful in the services provided..I loved it. We need to learn from this---We have an opportunity to have the entire nation come to Wisconsin in the near future---and just as Evansville, Wisconsin was put on the map during the Iraq war debates, we have an opportunity to do it bigger this time. It was very difficult to get all those folks into the basement of the Eager Free library for the war debates, but now...we have a bigger venue in Creekside. We could have a wonderul forum welcoming the Tea Party folks, and then afterwards take them out to learn line dancing at a local spot. Just think of the revenue this could generate. So---Here is the tagline: "Come to Wisconsin---Bring it On"

Classic Reverse "My Fair Lady" Rant: School Scoop: Jan 2012

(Ed.note: This is a reprint from School Scoop Blog from January 20, 2012 without any editing) Friday, January 20, 2012 So now they're going to test kindergartners... Click on the link below to see what our fearless leader is proposing now. So, Walker wants to reinvent the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) legislation, this time figuring out how to test kindergarteners in reading? That's my take on this. OK... Some of the ideas are good, looking for achievable measurable parameters to monitor. However, when one really thinks about what is objective and what is subjective, much cannot be evaluated using purely objective criteria. Therein lies the rub. If a teacher is missing the "soft skills" how much energy should a school district invest in that person before deciding to give them the boot instead of letting them get tenure? Frankly, some people never develop the personality necessary to become an outstanding teacher: Humility, joy at seeing the student pass you in speed and content, persistence in covering the material until each child has grasped the basics and can build the next learning blocks on them and satisfaction in the knowledge that you had some small part to play in that child's education. Then there's the whole business of holding teachers and principals accountable for poor test scores. Learning starts in the womb. It continues the moment you hold your precious bundle for the first time. Every interaction you have with that baby is a learning experience for both of you, more so for the babe. If a parent plops that babe in front of the boob tube for 5 years and then blames the public schools because they have produced an illiterate child who can't figure out how to read by grade 2, where's the parental accountability in all this? How can the schools be held accountable for that kind of parent who presents the schools with a child whose potential to learn has been squelched at the hands of the morons who "raised" it? Then there's the nature of bulk learning in this day in age. If the poor kid hasn't had it's love of learning extinguished by it's parents, elementary school will often finish the job. Especially of that child is a boy. Have you ever noticed the difference in the learning process of a boy compared to a girl? Granted, I'm not going to try to extract how much of this is innate and how much has been imposed by our sexist societal norms. But if those norms produce boys who, by and large, learn best my exercising their large muscle groups and with hands on activity and girls learn best through collaborative and cooperative models and our schools teach by rote and lecture, emphasizing collaboration and team effort, which gender do you think is going to excel in public school? Why do you think girls outnumber boys on college campuses these days? It's not because boys have suddenly become stupid. Their learning style does not mesh well with what is expected of them in public school. Their learning style DOES mesh well with behavior that usually lands them in trouble, setting them up for a lot of time in the principal's office. How can they learn when they are spending all their energy suppressing their natural impulse to jump around so they don't get sent to the principal's office? Well, that's my rant. I certainly never want to see the days again when girls were told that they were not worthy of a college education because they were only going to become wives and mothers and it was a waste of a spot in college, like my mother and mother-in-law had to endure. But there really has to be some kind of happy medium it would seem. The answer lies in differentiated instruction, wherein each child is taught to his or her own strength. If a kid needs motion to learn, give him or her motion. If a kid needs as many math problems as you can throw at her, bring it on. Just stop providing the mediocre pablum and challenge each kid so they reach their potential whether they had parents who parked them in front of the boob tube from day 1 or read to them in the womb. http://host.madison.com/highlights-of-gov-walker-s-school-reform-package/article_c4cf0c8c-42f3-11e1-8679-001871e3ce6c.html

Evansville Police Report Decline in Calls for Service

8. Evansville Police Report – January 2011. January’s license plate transactions totaled 61. The following officers were appointed at the January 5, 2012 police commission meeting: New part-time hires Zach Anacker, There were 1052 calls for service in the month of January, 2012, compared to 1357 for Michael Mawhinney, Ian Reilly and Matthew McElroy. Matt will be limited to Court Office duty and special events. Officer McElroy will also be attending the policy academy February through May. Chief McElroy will be on vacation March 8 and 9. The Chief and Lieutenant are continuing to perform police officer evaluations. The part-time clerical staffing has tentatively been scheduled for a total of 1,044 hours to use. The second part of range training was completed on January 17th in Janesville. We continue to work on accreditation, continuing to review and await our three last policies. Our first accreditation visit may have to be tentatively moved back to 2013. Files are continually being scanned on a daily basis. The police website continues to be updated with significant information. The Chief attended the High School Senior graduation Service Learning Project meeting on January 25, 2012. Officer Reese spoke to students at the Middle School on January 31, 2012. Our group, represented by each Rock County agency, has narrowed down five possible vendors for updating the Rock County Records Management System. In February, we are expecting demonstrations from those five vendors. These meetings are attended by Officer Koehler and Police Secretary Jill Puckett. 9. Evansville Medical Service Report – There were 28 runs for the month of January 2012. Mary attended training for the nurses at Evansville Manor on the use of an AED, CCR training and the procedure to use when removing an object for a choking victim. EMT training is complete for the 2012-2014 refresher license renewal. All EMTs completing the refresher class and will be applying for the new license. Chief Wendt is attempting to facilitate training/evacuation for the Grange Apartments and apartments at the State Farm Building. The EMS has CCR training set up with the Fire Department in February. The goal is to have as many individuals trained to respond for CPR runs. The training includes proper use of the equipment and where to find where the equipment is located. Mary states the paperwork for the OJA grant in the amount of $50,000.00 was received. The funds will be distributed between the EMS, Police and Fire Departments. The Police will receive funds to upgrade their already purchased radios, the EMS and Fire Departments will get funds to buy new equipment. Mary has been working on SOPs (standard operating procedures) manual. The manual is being updated to reflect true operating procedures the service is utilizing today. A copy will be presented to this committee upon completion for your input along with a copy to the City Administrator. Mary is also gathering information on the Knox Boxes for residents and businesses within the City of Evansville. 10. Motion by Jacobson, second by Hayes, to adjourn the meeting at 7:29 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Barbara Jacobson, Chairperson These minutes are not official until approved by Public Safety at their next regular meeting

OpEd; What's the GOOD news?

Two big stories in the past thirty days in Evansville, Wisconsin----- the appointment of a new professional engineering firm for Evansville, and the selection of a new, but well known and experienced high caliber Superintendent of Schools are big positives for our community. Quality Leadership and Quality Development matter. Families buy homes, but more importantly they buy dreams of communities that are getting it together...and the developments of the past thirty days are positive.

Audio: Evansville Schools: Enrollment:

(Ed.note: Over 550 downloads in a month and a half indicates high interest in this subject) Audio: Evansville School Dist: January 9, 2012: Discussion of enrollment for upcoming school year, several options on Sage funding for k-3. Discussion of enrollment trends.


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Special March Events at Creekside

Special Offerings: Monday, March 5: Card Making Group at 10:00 a.m., $5 per person Wednesday, March 7: Benefit Specialist (Social Security, etc.) at 11:30 a.m. Friday, March 9: Family Respite Care, 6-9:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 13: Woodchucks meeting at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, March 15: Diabetes class and support group at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, March 15: Movie “Thrive,” at 6:30 p.m., $3 donation per person suggested Friday, March 16: Parents Night Out, 6-10:00 p.m., $20 member child, $25 non-member child, $15 second child Saturday, March 17: Caregiver’s Support Group at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, March 17: Dinner Party at Creekside Place starting at 5:30 p.m., $17 per member, $24 per non-member. Featuring St. Patrick’s Day theme with corned beef and cabbage. Fundraising event for Creekside Place programs. Wednesday, March 21: Foot Clinic, by appointment, $15 per person Thursday, March 22: Reflexology, by appointment, $15 or $30 per person Thursday, March 22: Federal VA Benefits program at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, March 22: Card Making Workshop at 6:30 p.m., $15 member, $18 non-member Friday, March 23: Kids Matinee, “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs,” at 1:30 p.m., $1 single member, $23 single non-member, $5 family member, $7 family non-member Friday, March 30: Easter Egg Coloring, 1:30-3:30 p.m., $2.50 member child, $3 non-member child Friday, March 30: Family Bingo Night, 6:30-8:00 p.m., $5 donation per family suggested Plus, Creekside Place is the site for “The Heat Is On Chili Cook-Off!” set for 6:30 p.m. Saturday, March 10. Sponsored by the Evansville Community Partnership, event tickets are $17.

Carlson Students Launch "Rally Company"

Molly Woulfe and fellow students of Carlson School of Business in Minnesota have launched "Rally Company" and have their first two products---the site is just coming up. Click on the link to follow the progress. http://rallybag.co/

Observer Calls for Closing Audit

Check out the latest from the Janesville Gazette---- a manager who worked for Beloit, but was fired in an incident where an employee was found to have taken some money in a purchasing scam----and then hired by Janesville..no problem.??....and think back to the recent incident at Evansville Schools where a data manager was found to have taken money, and sentenced---and to similiar events that have happened all to often. Thus, I think as is common in business, where there is a change from one administration to the next in the corporate world, there is usually an independent audit to allow the new administrator a clean slate. I believe this should happen for Evansville Schools at this time.

Finish Line Approaches at Body Transformation Challenge: Evansville Health Club

There is real drama happening in Evansville----and it is at the Evansville Health Club. Check out how close a finish it will be as the Blue and Black teams battle to the finish line. In the world we sometimes get distracted by the bright lights, the fire trucks, ambulances and high visibiity of intervention---but the very dramatic we sometimes miss----do not miss the drama at the Evansville Health Club. In fact, I would love to see a corporate challenge event---imagine the excitement if bankers, insurance pros, realtors, firemen, police, politicians.... and well...bloggers and such went toe to toe in a high stakes challenge. In a very brief check locally...there are still many pounds that could be lost in such an event....stay tuned.

Nostalgia: Video; Meet the Evansville Artists--2009

Video: Eager Free Library: May 21, 2009: Introduction of the Artists that are displaying art right now in the Library

Mailbag; Ice Age Trail Information

EXCERPT FROM MAYOR’S COLUMN IN FEBRUARY 15, 2012 REVIEW Ice Age Trail Two weeks ago the National Park Service, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Rock County, and the Ice Age Trail Alliance held a public information session at Creekside Place. Planning is underway to complete the Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Rock County. The Rock County Trail will connect with the Kettle Moraine Trail in Walworth County, include Magnolia Bluff County Park, and extend to Albany, where it will connect with the Sugar River Trail. Corridor options were presented at the open house. Two of the four preliminary options include Evansville. The Ice Age Trail is a National Scenic Trail located entirely within Wisconsin. It is one of only eight National Scenic Trails in the U.S. (The Appalachian Trail is a well-known National Scenic Trail.) When completed, the Ice Age Trail will be about 1,200 miles long. To date, over 600 miles have been completed. The Trail provides mostly off-road hiking and backpacking, with bird watching, magnificent scenery, and wildlife viewing. Some portions of the Trail allow for camping, bicycling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. ATVs are prohibited on the Trail. The Trail objectives include following glacial features and moraines, preserving natural glacial features, providing support facilities and interpretive opportunities, and offering varied and scenic hiking experiences, including significant archeological, geological, historical, and cultural sites. The Rock County planning process began in 2006. The information about Evansville used in the development of the corridor options is now outdated. Some updated information was provided at the Creekside meeting and additional material will be submitted shortly. The National Park Service representatives were very interested to know that application has been made to them for listing Leonard Leota Park as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. A copy of the application was supplied to them at the open house. It was also emphasized that there are three current National Register historic districts in Evansville, with more than 300 buildings and structures of historical significance in our community. Our Bird City Wisconsin designation was also of interest to them. The information about Evansville in the corridor report indicated there were no overnight accommodations available. We now have Cobblestone Inn & Suites in our community. We have numerous options for food and refreshments. The Trail is built and maintained by volunteers. I spoke about the strong volunteer network in our community organizations. During the Creekside session, a presentation on the geology of our area was given by UW geologist David Mickelson. The Johnstown Moraine runs east-west just north of Evansville. Mickelson described the Evansville Golf Course as an outstanding visual example of the contours of the terminal moraine. The Park Service is taking public comments until March 15. I encourage citizens to take the time to review the Rock County Alternative Corridors Report. Evansville is part of segment 3 and is included in corridor options C and D. You can make on-line comments at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/. Go to Ice Age National Scenic Trail and find the list of documents open for comment. You can also mail comments to: National Park Service; Ice Age National Scenic Trail; 700 Rayovac Drive, Suite 100; Madison WI 53711. Following the comment period, a preferred corridor will be identified and a refined plan developed. There will be two additional public open houses as the planning moves forward. Property for the trail will need to be purchased or easements obtained. It is likely to take up to two years to complete the planning process and begin Trail work. We have great natural assets in the Evansville area, including Gibbs Lake, the Johnstown Moraine, Magnolia Bluff Park, Leonard-Leota Park, and Allen Creek. We value our rich historical resources. We are a community with a strong agricultural tradition; we respect the land and our rural heritage. We have a concentration of Rock County Barn Quilts in the Evansville area. Evansville is the boyhood home and final resting place of renowned American Impressionist Theodore Robinson. Having Evansville located on the Ice Age Trail would be a tremendous amenity for our citizens and would bring visitors to our community, growing our local economy. Your public input is important to support this terrific opportunity.

Excitement Builds for Announcement of New Evansville Supr of Schools

Excitement is building, and maybe we all will know who will lead the school district...maybe next week.

Nostalgia: 2007: Evansville Observer: Evansville Population Study---the analysis--the pe...

Evansville Observer: Evansville Population Study---the analysis--the pe...: In the population study that was included in the Plunkett Raysich report by Evansville Schools and listed above on the Observer, they make t...

On Branding---the problem of negatives

Video: Prof. Scovotti talks about "branding" with a warning about "negatives": This was part of a lecture at the Evansville I and E Club.

Evansville School Board Meets Monday, Feb 27, 2012

EVANSVILLE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Board of Education Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, February 27, 2012 6:30 p.m. District Board and Training Center 340 Fair Street Note, public notice of this meeting given by posting at the District Office, Levi Leonard Elementary School Office, Theodore Robinson Intermediate School Office, J.C. McKenna Middle School Office, High School Office, Evansville School District Web Site: www.evansville.k12.wi.us, and by forwarding the agenda to the Evansville Review, M&I Bank, Union Bank & Trust and Eager Free Public Library. I. Roll Call: Dennis Hatfield Kathi Swanson Eric Busse John Rasmussen Tina Rossmiller Sharon Skinner Nancy Hurley II. Approve Agenda. III. Approve January 23 Minutes. IV. Approve Switching Date of March 26 Board Meeting to March 19. V. Budget Finance – Chair, Eric Busse - A. Discussion Items: 1) 2011-2012 Budget Update. 2) 2012-2013 Budget Process Update. 3) Update on Evansville Education Foundation. 4) Request for Proposal of Annual Financial Audit Process. B. Develop Budget Finance Draft Agenda for March 19 Meeting. VI. Policy – Chair, Nancy Hurley - A. First Reading of Policies: 1) Policy #841 – Bequests and Gifts. 2) Policy #453.1-Emergency Nursing Services. 3) Emergency Nursing Manual. B. Second Reading of Policy: 1) Policy #225.1 - Colleague Assessment Questionnaire. 2) Policy #341.6 – Kindergarten Instruction. C. Approval of Policies: 1) Policy #225 – Evaluation of the District Administrator. 2) Policy #231 – Recruitment and Appointment of District Administrator. 3) Policy #232 – District Administrator (Job Description). 4) Policy #233 – Resignation and Release of District Administrator. D. Develop Policy Agenda Draft Agenda for March 19 Meeting. VII. Board Development – Chair, Kathi Swanson - A. Board Presidents’ Meeting Report. B. Employee Handbook. C. Update on District Administrator Search. D. Location of Future Board Meetings. E. Develop Board Development Draft Agenda for March 19 Meeting. VIII. Future Agenda – Chair, Kathi Swanson - A. Develop March 12 Regular Board Meeting Agenda. IX. Adjourn. Mission Statement: The Evansville Community School District, in active partnership with families and the community, will provide a positive learning environment that challenges all students to achieve personal excellence and become contributing citizens of the world community. Vision Statement: Creating a culture of excellence in: • Academic achievement • Character development • Pursuit of arts, athletics, and other activities • Community engagement • Highly effective staff This notice may be supplemented with additions to the agenda that come to the attention of the Board prior to the meeting. A final agenda will be posted and provided to the media no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting or no later than 2 hours prior to the meeting in the event of an emergency. Persons needing special accommodations or more specific information about agenda items should call 882-5224, ext. 3387 at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Posted: 2/17/12

What is an ACO---an Accountable Care Organization

Introduction This AHA Research Synthesis Report presents an overview of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), including a discussion on the potential impact of ACOs, key questions to consider in developing an ACO, and a review of the key competencies needed to be an effective ACO. This report focuses on the overall concept of ACO yet highlights the specifics of the ACO model proposed in health reform legislation. What are ACOs? The term Accountable Care Organization (ACO) describes the development of partnerships between hospitals and physicians to coordinate and deliver efficient care (Fisher, 2006). The ACO concept envisions multiple providers assuming joint accountability for improving health care quality and slowing the growth of health care costs. The concept was also included in national health care reform legislation as one of several demonstration programs to be administered by Medicare (Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, 2010). However, ACOs described in health reform legislation are operationally different from other ACO models. The role of ACOs in integrating and aligning provider incentives in care delivery requires participating organizations to posses certain key competencies, as identified in the literature:

What does ACO" mean to you

St Mary's Hospital and Dean Clinics are considering merger or a variation of merger. The objective is to be an "ACO". What does this mean?

Chili Cook Off Coming March 10th---Creekside

Join us at the Chili Cook-Off! Saturday March 10th At Creekside Place 6:30-9pm Walk away with a Matthias James chili bowl FREE with admission!

Observer Congratulates President Obama on Reelection:

The bold action of President Obama in slowly but surely engineering the withdrawal of troops from Afganistan and Iraq combined with the bold act to elimate Osama Bin Laden, has given Americans a portrait of a Commander, a President that can advance and retreat as necessary to achieve national objectives...and further to achieve domestic objectives of justice in taxation and ...survival..for the middle class. Congratulations Mr. President on your election in 2012.

Signs for the Ages: "Soglin for Mayor": Nixon's a Crook": Reflection

If you walked down State Street in Madison in 1970..and gazed to the right, you would have seen two large signs on the buildings....one proclaimed "Soglin for Mayor" and the second sign on a different building...."Nixon's A Crook". This week without fanfare, Paul Soglin had hip surgery...and someone replaced him at the helm. Paul became mayor again recently and addressed the Edgewater...the Library...the Overture..and the budget for the city of Madison....and he did again what the citizens of Madison have COUNTED on him to do....come thru for them.... Best wishes on a speedy recovery, Paul Soglin. After all these years....we are still counting on you...

2007: Art Phillips Speaks: re: School Building

7-16-2007--Building and Grounds, Evansville School District, Art Phillips, Board member cautions that review of sites is fine, but with respect to building anything, the recent slowdown in building activity must be taken into account---the future is unknown. It can go either way.

School Enrollment Growth Did not Happen

The audio recording from 2007 of Supr. Carvin speaking to the Evansville Planning Commission is pretty stunning for its presentation of what the dream was, and what the history was that unfolded. The dream for school expansion was based on data from 2002 to 2007. In retrospect, the sharp decline in building permits mentioned in the audio was the warning of things to come. Enrollment has been flat since 2007. Enrollment "decline" is NOT somthing that has suddenly occured in 2012---it is something that school board members Art Phillips, Michael Pierick and Melissa Hammann frquently reminded the community of. The stimulus funds may have delayed the day of cutting, but that day is here. Stay tuned.

Mar 2007: Supr.Carvin - Planning Commission

Planning Commission meeting of Monday, Mar. 5, 2007. Supr. Heidi Carvin reviews enrollement data and projections, reviews building permits for Evansville and Union; Answers questions


MP3 File

Mailbag: Tammy Baldwin Writes:

Middle class Wisconsinites and working families have had a raw deal in recent years. Jobs have been shipped overseas, Wall Street banks have gambled away people’s hard-earned retirement savings, and mortgage lenders have engaged in shady practices, forcing many Americans out of their homes or close to it. What’s worse is government policies often encourage these harmful actions. The deck has been stacked for powerful interests who manipulate the system to their benefit. As your Representative, I am working hard to restore an even playing field. I’d like to share some encouraging recent news from this fight that may be of interest to you. Sincerely, Tammy Baldwin Your Member of Congress Help for Homeowners Last week, the federal government, 49 states including Wisconsin, and the nation’s five largest mortgage servicers reached a $25 billion settlement over foreclosure abuses perpetrated against America’s homeowners. While much more work remains, I believe this is a good first step toward making defrauded homeowners whole and reforming our broken mortgage system. Wisconsin will receive an estimated $140 million that will go mainly toward direct relief to affected homeowners, refinancing benefits for eligible borrowers, and remediation programs and services. I have been leading the fight in Congress to see that the victims of fraudulent bank practices be adequately compensated and that the banks be held accountable for their actions. The settlement is narrowly limited to one area of financial abuse and does not right the wrongs of the past five years. It also only involves loans serviced by the nation's five largest mortgage lenders. However, the settlement does pave the way for continued investigations into the abusive lending and packaging of risky mortgages that led to the housing crisis. [Read more on the settlement] Introducing the Buffett Rule For far too long, our tax code has unfairly benefited the wealthiest Americans, while middle class families have taken it on the chin. It's up to Congress to fix this obvious injustice. I recently introduced the Paying a Fair Share Act (H.R. 3903), also known as "the Buffett Rule," to help level the playing field between middle class taxpayers and millionaires and billionaires. The "Buffett Rule" is so-named because billionaire Warren Buffett has decried the fact that his secretary pays a higher tax rate than he pays. In 2008, the top-earning 400 Americans, who made an average $270 million each, paid the same average effective tax rate as the typical Wisconsin construction worker, using the standard deduction and exemption. The Paying a Fair Share Act would reduce the budget deficit by tens of billions of dollars by ensuring that millionaires pay at least a 30% effective tax rate. I am calling on my colleagues in the House to join me in taking this first step to strengthen our middle class and rebuild our economy with a commitment to shared responsibility and shared sacrifice. [Read more] Holding Members of Congress to the Same Standards as Everyone Else As we work to end corrupt practices and establish transparency on Wall Street, we must apply the same rules to everyone who has access to insider information, including Members of Congress. Last week I voted for, and the House passed, a long-sought measure that would ban insider trading by Members of Congress. The STOCK Act (Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge – S. 2038) is bipartisan legislation that would prohibit Members of Congress and employees of Congress from profiting from non-public information they obtain via their official positions. This is a loophole we must close if we are to restore the American people’s faith in Congress and the work of democracy. [Read more] Weatherization Projects Create Wisconsin Jobs, Keep Energy Costs Down The Wisconsin Weatherization Program has helped more than 30,500 Wisconsin families save an average $400 per year on their energy utility bills while creating jobs and supporting local businesses. In Beloit, I’ve seen first-hand how energy upgrades have helped a displaced auto worker avoid financial ruin and how the funds for weatherization projects create jobs and boost sales at local businesses. I am pleased that my advocacy on behalf of Wisconsin families and businesses contributed to averting devastating cuts to the program. The Department of Energy has announced that Fiscal Year 2012 funding for the program will be maintained close to recent levels rather than be cut approximately 60 percent, as sought by House Republicans. I made a strong case to Secretary of Energy Steven Chu why the Wisconsin Weatherization Program should be maintained and am delighted that the Secretary agreed with my recommendation. [Read more] For more information on my work in Congress, visit TammyBaldwin.House.Gov Share this on:

Streetscoop: Evansville School District

In the school packet for the recent Evansville School Board meeting, in the Bank Reconciliation, it notes that in November 2011 the balance in Fund 27 for Special Education was NEGATIVE 806,374.96 and in January 2912 it was NEGATIVE 1,367,977. I assume that this is because the State of Wisconsin does not promptly pay the District for Special Ed Expenses, and the district has to obtain short term financing to cover this... The policy of forcing local school districts to loan money to the State at the same time that State is giving gifts to corporations speaks for itself. What is not clear to me, is what the net will be and what the actual difference between the reimbursement of the State of Wisconsin and the costs incurred. This goes to highlight the point that Mr. Michael Pierick made last year at the School District meeting that highlighted Open Enrollment. Especially when Open Enrollment is lengthened to May as a closing date, it opens the possibility that there could be a surprise that would have to be covered by ADDITIONAL concessions or cuts. I see that as something to be avoided at all costs, but the board decision to leave Open Enrollment wide open, it remains a possibility.

Streetscoop: Florida:

Residents of many communities in Florida recently received the news that their electric rates will DECREASE due to the decline in the cost of energy production because of the decline in natural gas costs....In related news, cities up north, who rely on COAL and non green fuel sources, have applied for rate increases, all the while pretending they are green, but NOT. Baggage handlers and folks who rely on tourism for their employment are concerned about the effect on their jobs of airlines hitting passengers with fees for additional luggage etc. It seems to them that many tourists are choosing to DRIVE...or just vacation locally. One Florida resident mentioned to me that he loved living in Florida, except that it was kind of like living in a gated community where everything has been abandoned.

State of Wisconsin Academic Institutions seeking talent who PREFER 401K over Premier Defined Benefit Plan

Recently the distinguished Governor of Wisconsin, Scott Walker, has requested legislation that would allow new employees of academic institutions in the state of Wisconsin to choose 401K retirement plans over the traditional defined benefit plan. Rephrased: Governor Scott Walker is seeking academic talent for Wisconsin schools that would rather than choose the finest defined benefit plan in the nation, a plan that investment institutions have sought to emulate in their specific investments, and a benefit plan that is arguably the best in the nation---Walker is seeking the possibility that new employees would want an option to have the 401K plans that have proven to be "dismal" in performance over the past 20 years. Rephrased: Dimwits wanted to work in Wisconsin academic institutions.

Fiddlers' Summit Coming to Evansville

Many of you have heard about the Fiddlers’ Summit—Starring Ken Waldman with David Greely and Friends, coming to the Performing Arts Center on Saturday night Feb 25 at 7 pm. It’s going to be a great show and I hope you can attend. More information about the show and performers is below. I’ve attached a flyer that you can send to your email list or print and post, if you’d be so kind. You can get tickets—without charge—at Real Coffee at Daun, the Evansville Pharmacy or by calling 608.882.0598 to reserve them. You can also reply to this email to have tickets at will-call. We’re really hoping to get 600 tickets into the hands of people who will come and enjoy the show. Donations will be taken at the door and after the show. The show could also use a few volunteers. We will need two or three for will-call, three ushers, and several donation-takers before the show. We will also need people to take donations after the show as well. If you are willing to volunteer, please reply to this email. I’ll be away from the desk for a few days but I’ll get back to you early next week. Thank you Jim Brooks for E-Arts and ECP It will be One Hot Night In February when E-Arts presents The Evansville Fiddler’s Summit—Starring Ken Waldman, with the famed Cajun fiddler, David Greely, fiddler Brian O'Donnell and multi-instrumentalist Colin Bazsali of Madison’s own Barley Bros. on Saturday night February 25 at 7 pm. This most excellent string-band variety show, which will take you from Evansville to Anchorage and back, by way of Lafayette , Louisiana , is being staged for your free-will donation at the show. That’s right. Tickets can be had at no charge before the show and you can pay what you will at the venue. J im Brooks, speaking for E-Arts said, “We are bringing this family friendly show to the PAC and hope to give away all 600 tickets to people who will fill the hall for a wonderful night of energetic music. It’s a Cabin Fever-Reliever kind of a show and we want to make sure that everyone gets a chance to see it.” E-Arts is dedicated to bringing the best in live entertainment and the arts to Evansville . Their past shows have included Gaelic Storm with Rising Gael, The Second City and American English. The group has also been responsible for bringing Garry Wesley’s Elvis Tribute show, The Mad Hatters and Westside Andy and the Mel Ford Band to the PAC in winters past. This show will be a fun-for-the-whole-family variety show featuring Alaska’s Fiddling Poet, Ken Waldman, who has drawn on his 25 years in Alaska to produce poems, stories, and fiddle tunes that combine into a performance uniquely his own. A former college professor, Waldman has had published six full-length poetry collections, a memoir, a children's book, and has released nine CDs that combine old-time Appalachian-style string-band music with original poetry. Since 1995 he’s toured full-time, performing at some of the nation’s leading universities, festivals, arts centers, and clubs. David Greely took up the fiddle at 17, after hearing Richard Greene play through an amp with a wa-wa pedal in concert at the Warehouse in New Orleans, when Seatrain opened for Black Sabbath. The next day, in a Baton Rouge pawnshop a couple of blocks from where he was born, he bought a J apanese plywood fiddle and two brand-new $35 bows. Rosin applied, strings tuned to an open G chord, he figured out how to play a recognizable version of the “Sally Goodin” that he’d heard the night before, and made up two more tunes before supper. David and Steve Riley formed a band that became known as Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys, and spent the next 23 years together traveling literally around the world, searching archives for tunes, writing songs, making records and getting nominated for Grammies. They spent half the year in Louisiana Dance halls, where audiences vote with their feet: on the dance floor or out the door. The other half was spent on the road, playing folk festivals and concert halls. Two members of Madison ’s own The Barley Brothers will join the fun onstage that night. Brian O’Donnell brings his talents on fiddle and guitar to our show while multi-instrumentalist, Colin Bazsali, will play banjo, mandolin, and harmonica. These two play a monthly gig at Madison ’s Malt House and played together for years as part of The Cajun Strangers. Ticket outlets are Real Coffee at Daun and the Evansville Pharmacy. You can reserve yours by emailing J im Brooks at ecpi@litewire.net. Only 600 tickets have been printed so E-Arts hopes that they all get into the hands of people who will attend. It will be a great show and fun for everyone. For more information you can call 882-0598.

Common Council Meets on Valentines Day--

Common Council Regular Meeting Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 6:30 p.m. City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI Agenda (revised 2/13/2012) 1. Call to order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Motion to waive the reading of the minutes of the January 10, 2012, regular meeting and the February 2, 2012, special meeting and to approve them as presented. 5. Citizen appearances A. Introduction from Rock County Circuit Court Candidate Tod Daniel. B. Introduction from Rock County Circuit Court Candidate Barbara McCrory. 6. Reports of Committees A. Youth Center Advisory Board Report B. Finance and Labor Relations Committee Report (1). Motion to accept the City and Water & Light bills as presented. (2). Motion to approve Resolution 2012-03, Approving Year-End Amendments to the 2011 Budget and New-Year Amendments to the 2012 Budget. (3). Motion to approve non-represented employee salaries for 2012. (4). Discussion and possible motion regarding control and management of invested moneys earmarked for library. C. Plan Commission Report D. Public Safety Committee Report E. Public Works Committee Report F. Water & Light Committee Report G. Economic Development Committee Report H. Redevelopment Authority Report I. Parks and Recreation Board Report J. Historic Preservation Commission Report K. Fire District Report L. Police Commission Report M. Energy Independence Team Report N. Library Board/Liaison Report O. Board of Appeals Report 7. Unfinished Business A. Second Reading and motion to adopt Ordinance 2012-01, Amending Chapter 2 of the Municipal Code, Relative to Charges for Non-Sufficient Funds. [Sponsors Brooks and Braunschweig]. B. Second Reading and motion to adopt Ordinance 2012-02, Amending Chapter 130 of the Municipal Code, Relative to Duplex Standards in R-2 District, Duplex Definitions, and Duplex Regulations. [Sponsors Braunschweig and Brooks]. C. Second Reading and motion to adopt Ordinance 2012-03, Amending Chapter 130 of the Municipal Code, Relative to Conditional Use Permit Applications. [Sponsors Braunschweig and Brooks]. 8. Communications and Recommendations from the Mayor A. Motion to waive the seven-day notice on citizen appointments. B. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Phil Kress, 239 W Liberty Street, to an unexpired 5 year term ending in 2014 to the Board of Review and to remove him as alternate. C. Motion to approve Resolution 2012-04, Appointing City Engineer. 9. Communications from the City Administrator A. Motion to approve application for Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) in amount of $35,000 for additional LED streetlights. B. Recommendation to keep Mark Sendelbach as Water & Light Superintendent beyond 45 day introductory period. C. Motion to disallow claim by Terry N. Bridgewater alleging city negligence. 10. New Business 11. Introduction of New Ordinances A. First Reading of Ordinance 2012-04, Amending Chapter 126 of the Municipal Code, Relative to Cross Connections. [Sponsors Brooks and Hayes] 12. Meeting Reminder: A. Discuss: reschedule next regular meeting to Tues, March 6, or Wed, March 7. 13. Adjournment Sandra J. Decker, Mayor Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible. Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.

Nostalgia: "Winds of Time; Evansville Windmill Art Festival

Nostalgia: One of the most popular entries in the Evansville, Wi Windmill Arts Festival;;;

Nostalgia: July 2005: What the United Airlines Pension Crisis means for YOU

July 2005: Pension Crisis Looms: Why United Airlines Crisis matters Since September 11, there has been a wide range of articles about the crisis that has confronted the airline industry. Anyone who has travelled by air knows that the world has changed big time for travellers. Airlines seem to be losing money on each ticket but trying to make it up in volume....something that any business owner could tell them is bad business...but they persist. A week ago, the PBGC (Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation), a federal agency that insures the pension benefits of companies, took over the pension liabilities of United Airlines 123000 employees and retirees in the U.S. The problem is that this agency is 23 billion in the red at the current time and in poor shape to handle all the potential claims of the 20% of Americans that have defined benefit pension plans, plans that corporations have an incentive to avoid through the bankruptcy process since they are usually the ones that are underfunded. You may have thought this was just a problem at United Airlines. Wrong. It is a problem for every American who has a pension. The article titled "Pension Fury" or "Pension Roulette" by Tim Grey in the AARP Bulletin this month is a good article that explains what this crisis could mean for you. Click on the post title to access the article.(www.aarp.org/bulletin) The question I have is "Has deregulation really worked?" The regulated system for airlines had capital requirements for maintainance, pensions etc., but with the free for all market place, the public is not guaranteed that the essentials are covered. How about energy? or telephone? Are you any better off haveing 10,000 providers for long distance calling you for quotes on your long distance? How about the stock market? Now we have a totally transaction system where the system is designed to exploit not serve. So, is this a a pension crisis at United or is it more---- a deep crisis of deregulation of industries that are in the public interest and should have SOME minimium level of regulation, and more than at present. What is your call? Posted by Evansville Observer at 12:21 PM

Nostalgia: New Evansville Ford 2008

Video: Nostalgia: Rudy Bennett describes the "New Owner, New Attitude of the New Evansville Ford.

OpEd: "The Downsizing"

Having just returned from the warm temps of Florida, it has been a real adjustment---and I had a close up look at how Seniors adjust to retirement---and have concluded that there are several phases---in the first visits, Seniors stay for a week, and go out to dinner every night. Later when they go to Florida three months of the year, they go out to lunch, and leave the dinners for the short timers. Later, when they stay 6months of the year, they go out to breakfast and stock up the freezers with goodies for the other two meals---in short it is a downsizing from the first years. Here in Wisconsin we are seeing the "Downsizing" first hand---downsizing of manufacturing jobs, any jobs, tax revenue, income, hopes, dreams and opportunity as the entire State of Wisconsin faces division and decline, division of the political process into a maelstrom of ranting on all sides, and decline as folks decide to leave to avoid it. It is way beyond anger. It is anguish. Anguish that recognizes that the old song "You can't Always get what you want" may in fact be true...And there may be no guarantees how long it will be till the dreams downsized can be realized. And the far greater anguish is that you may not be able to get what you need, forget the wants. stay tuned....this story is in development.

Evansville School Board Meets Monday, February 13, 2012

Evansville School Board Meeting Monday, Feb 13 to review Reopened Contract

The Evansville Wisconsin School District at its regular meeting on Monday night, February, 13, 2012 will review the agreement with teachers to reopen their contract---as reported by other media, the agreement will result in fewer teachers being laid off, and savings to the district toward their 1.5 million shortfall. The Evansville Observer hopes to provide live audio and video coverage of this meeting. It is a rare occurence to have parties reopen for their mutual benefit---mostly in these matters, because they are too painful, there are only cancelled meetings with no result. Congrats are in order.

Evansville School Board meets Wednesday to select administrator applicants

Board of Education Special Meeting Agenda Wednesday, February 15, 2012 6:00 p.m. District Office Conference Room 340 Fair Street Note, public notice of this meeting given by posting at the District Office, Levi Leonard Elementary School Office, Theodore Robinson Intermediate School Office, J.C. McKenna Middle School Office, High School Office, Evansville School District Web Site: Evansville.k12.wi.us, and by forwarding the agenda to the Evansville Review, M&I Bank, Union Bank & Trust and Eager Free Public Library I. Roll Call: Dennis Hatfield Kathi Swanson Eric Busse John Rasmussen Tina Rossmiller Sharon Skinner Nancy Hurley II. Executive Session – Under Wisconsin Statute 19.85(1)(c) to Discuss and Select District Administrator Applicants for Initial Screening Interviews and Finalize Interview Protocol

Glory Days of the FBI Revisited at Little Bohemia: Government now modeled after "Gangsta" ethics

Recently I took a winter pilgrimage of sorts up to Manitowish Waters in Northern Wisconsin to spend a weekend near "Little Bohemia"---the resort where the FBI had that famous gun battle with John Dillinger as depicted in the recent movie. As I approached the lodge in the erie darkness, I was stunned that the very dark display of the film was in fact how it was in real life....we had a wonderful time at dinner there where there are momentos of the Dillenger event and I do recommend everyone to take a trip to see for yourself...but I digress... Those were the days when bold robbers met their fate at the hands of skillfull lawmen of the young FBI....what has happened to those days when bribery and extortion were met with the righteous wrath of the courageous FBI? Take for example the recent event in Madison, Wisconsin where a noted corporation, posing through a middleman, threatened the State of Wisconsin that they would leave for the warm weather of Florida unless they were paid several million dollars to relocate to the nearby Middleton...... How is this different from the famous extortion cons of the wild 1930"s. Very simple. Now we call it Economic Development.

Beyond Pay to Play: Pay or we Leave:

(Ed.note: In honor of the move of Spectrum Brands or Rayovac of Madison, I have republished the story of the "Cookies." ) Thursday, September 6, 2007 "The Cookies"---- a true story Tuesday, September 18, 2007 "The Cookies"----- a true story Years ago, one of my friends was the savings manager of the downtown Minneapolis Minnesota Federal. Minnesota Federal was a very staid old line savings institution. The two benefits of this job were the Athletic Club membership he was given to entertain depositors and woo new deposits. The other duty was to manage the depositors on "cookie day" each week. I think it was Tuesday. All customers were treated to cookies and coffee. It was great to stop off while switching busses and get a cup of coffee and one of those great chocolate chip cookies. I suppose I could have felt uncomfortable standing around chatting with the older folks about stuff----actually I loved it cause they always had some great stories, and besides....the cookies were great. Depositors who created a new account for $5000 or more, or added $5000 to an existing account got a wonderful set of stainless steel silverware. I can see it now in the classic wooden case. How elegant. Someday I thought. Someday I will get some of that silverware. One day I stopped in and there was NOTHING. What a shock. What a letdown feeling!! It had been a terrible winter day battling traffic on 35W and ...well...I really was in the mood for some coffee....and the cookies. What a blow!! I went right over to my friend, Mike, and asked, "What the heck is the deal, Mike? How could you destroy such a sacred tradition like the cookies?" Mike just smiled. Then he went on: "The stainless steel silverware was a reward for those folks that deposited NEW money. The plain truth is that we had a large number of present customers that threatened to take their $5000 out of the bank if they did not get the silverware. It became a blackmail game. The incentive just did not work. So---we discontinued it, along with the coffee and cookies." Over the years I have thought a lot about that incident. Things have changed. Yes I have learned how to make my own coffee. Mike taught me a wonderful lesson that morning. A lesson about Economic Development. A lesson about sales. Economic Development is about going out and getting the NEW money---not about being blackmailed by the old. The stainless silver cookware goes to the NEW. Thanks, Mike.

Audio: Evansville Schools: Enrollment:

Audio: Evansville School Dist: January 9, 2012: Discussion of enrollment for upcoming school year, several options on Sage funding for k-3. Discussion of enrollment trends.


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Agenda: Special Evansville Council Meeting: TODAY

Common Council Special Meeting Thursday, February 2, 2012, 6:30 p.m. City Hall, 31 South Madison Street, Evansville, WI AGENDA 1. Call to order. 2. Roll call. 3. Approval of agenda. 4. Motion to defer the reading of the minutes of the January 10, 2012, regular meeting until the February regular meeting. 5. Citizen appearances. 6. Discussion of City Attorney memo regarding the January vote on confirmation of the mayoral appointment of City Engineer. 7. Review of mayoral appointment process. a. Use of position-specific expertise for practicality and efficiency. b. Confirmation process is not either/or. c. Next steps in cases of non-confirmation. 8. Justification for request for proposals for municipal engineering services. 9. Motion to waive the seven-day notice on mayoral appointments. 10. Motion to confirm the mayoral appointment of Town & Country Engineering, Inc. as City Engineer. a. Selection committee overview. b. Presentation by Town and Country Engineering c. Other relevant information. d. Council discussion and action. 11. Adjourn. Sandra J. Decker, Mayor Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible. Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.

I and E Club Meeting Feb 8th Features Eric Larsen:

I&E Club Meets Feb. 8, Features Local Entrepreneur Larsen Mark Feb. 8 on your calendar, and learn how a local computer programmer created a business and earned contest honors. The Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club hosts Eric Larsen, who created the box office software Expresso Ticketing. It’s a product that offers a high-end ticketing sales experience to small-sized venues. He also entered and earned honors at Accelerate Your Business Contest, designed to foster economic development in Rock County. Larsen will be speaking at the meeting set for Wednesday, Feb. 8, at Creekside Place, 102 Maple St., Evansville. Everyone is invited to the meeting, which is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be available, courtesy of Evansville Farmers Market. The local group—which will be hosting an indoor market Saturday, Feb. 25 at Creekside Place—is accepting applications for vendors. See evansvillefarmersmarket.org or their Facebook page for more information. For more information about the I&E Club, contact Sue Berg at 608-882-0986 or suebergsolutions@gmail.com, or John Gishnock III at 608-314-6656 or john.g@formecology.com. Or go to www.linkedin.com and search, under “groups” for Evansville Area Inventors and Entrepreneurs Club.

Audio: Evansville Schools: Enrollment:

Audio: Evansville School Dist: January 9, 2012: Discussion of enrollment for upcoming school year, several options on Sage funding for k-3. Discussion of enrollment trends.


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Attn Baseball Fans !!!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact Info: Jon Frey, 608-575-4359 “STRIKE OUT FOR BASEBALL” EVANSVILLE HOME TALENT 7TH ANNUAL BOWLING FUNDRAISER The Evansville Home Talent Baseball Team has set the dates for their 7th annual 9 pin tap bowling tournament fundraiser “STRIKE OUT FOR BASEBALL”. The dates are Saturday, March 10 and Saturday, March 17 at the Evansville Bowl, 108 E Main Street in Evansville. Each date has two bowling shifts at 4:30 pm and 8:00 pm. Cash payout to top ten bowlers with a $20.00 entry fee. Reserve you lane by contacting tournament manager, Jeremy Rasmussen at 608-290-2664 or emailing him at jeremyr2@gmail.com. For more information and raffle prize list visit the team’s website at www.evansville.hometalent.org.

Google TV is Beginning

If you search any of your favorite topics in Evansville on Google, you will notice that video from the Evansville Observer is included in the search results. If you click these you will go to the video in high quality google video reader. I have not got the video to work fully yet on my old computer, but the download works fine. This has resulted in video downloads increasing by ten times---citizens have searched before for these topics, but have not seen all the video that was available. Google TV and Apple TV will both provide full access to The Evansville Observer video library. Enjoy.

Audio: Evansville Retail Market Analysis: 1/26/2012+

Audio: Evansville Retail Market Presentation: Community center: Presentation plus commentary by participants


MP3 File Last night at the presentation of the Retail Market Study at the Community Center in Evansville, the participants saw in the first opening paragraph of the findings of the consultants the possible change of theme that might help Evansville market itself---the fact that Evansville has and has had for decades a competitive pricing advantage over Madison for affordable homes. Historic is nice as a backdrop, but the center of the message is that families can thrive here in an affordable setting. This message is even more timely in difficult times. Click on the audio to download the complete discussion. Be patient as the group takes a while to examine this. Enjoy.

School Beat: 2007: Enrollment Decline

2007: Supr. Carvin reveals enrollment decline: Final numbers will be on third Monday of Sept count as well as open enrollment final numbers. Enrollment decline gives district some "breathing room."

"What's In YOUR Trunk?"

What's in YOUR Trunk?": The Weight Reflections Recenly I have been attending a weight management class as part of a planned weight loss over the next year or so. I would like to lose about fifty pounds----I got some new eyes with catarect surgery, some better hearing with some new hearing aids, and I am determined to get back to the youthful look of yesteryear----and January is the month of the year that everybody has the same idea---have you been to the Evansville Health Club lately. There is a "Body Transformation Challenge" with the "Blue Team" and the "Black Team". I take my hats off to these folks----in fact, I am sponsoring a person on the "Black Team". I check in weekly to see how the team competition is coming. Check it out.... Anyway. last week, my instructor started out the class by asking the Question: "What's In Your Trunk?" This headline shocked me a bit. I had just buried my beloved "heavy chey" in Minneapolis that my daughter had been driving, and I know vividly the last review of the trunk----I had it loaded with a spare water pump, starter and lots of other parts that I thought for sure would fail...and I wanted to be prepared. When the problem came, it was diagnosed by the big city folks as "electrical" and I had to put the car out of its misery while I could still afford to.... Right in the middle of my quick mental review of "My trunk", my instructor told us what was in her trunk---some tennis shoes, yaktrax, sweats, some party beverages, some snacks for the road to avoid the drive throughs etc. yes even some wine just in case a party broke out. So, in short, planning for party and fun and health. Then I thought about my own "trunk", my stomach that I had been storing up with candy bars just in case I needed a burst of energy in crisis. I could see that all my "trunks" needed to be revamped. So I will just ask you the question: "What's in YOUR trunk?"

Univ. of Wisconsin and Sweatshop Labor

The UW has been a leader in the prevention of sweatshop labor in the manufacture of its apparel. Will it also be a leader in the prevention of sweatshop labor of the shops right next door to the apparel workers---namely the computer component manufacturers----Addressing the Apple labor is the next step. Stay tuned.

Evansville Retail Market Research Presentation, TOMORROW, Jan 26, 2012: 5:30PM

City of Evansville Special Meeting Retail Market Research Presentation Thursday, January 26, 2012, 5:30 p.m. Creekside Place, 102 Maple Street, Evansville The City of Evansville is hosting a presentation by Madison consulting firm Ady Voltedge on retail market research and analysis in our community, including recommendations and implementation strategy. A majority of the Evansville Common Council and the Economic Development Committee may be present and actively participating in the meeting. A majority of any City Committee—including but not limited to Redevelopment Authority, Plan Commission, and Finance Committee—may be present and actively participating in the meeting. No formal action will be taken by the Common Council or any City Committee during the meeting. Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible. Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.

Audio: Evansville Council Defies Mayor

Audio; Evansville Common Council: 1/10/2012: Council defies Mayoral appointment as well as recommendation of selection committee of new City Engineer; Defies Wietecha recommendation.


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Audio: Evansville Schools: Enrollment:

Audio: Evansville School Dist: January 9, 2012: Discussion of enrollment for upcoming school year, several options on Sage funding for k-3. Discussion of enrollment trends.


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School Board Met Tonight; Key Meetings Coming Feb 13th and Feb 27th

EVANSVILLE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Board of Education Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, January 23, 2012 6:30 p.m. District Board and Training Center 340 Fair Street Note, public notice of this meeting given by posting at the District Office, Levi Leonard Elementary School Office, Theodore Robinson Intermediate School Office, J.C. McKenna Middle School Office, High School Office, Evansville School District Web Site: www.evansville.k12.wi.us, and by forwarding the agenda to the Evansville Review, M&I Bank, Union Bank & Trust and Eager Free Public Library. I. Roll Call: Dennis Hatfield Kathi Swanson Eric Busse John Rasmussen Tina Rossmiller Sharon Skinner Nancy Hurley II. Approve Agenda. III. Budget Finance – Chair, Eric Busse - A. Action Items: 1) Approve Girls Swimming Co-Op With Edgerton. 2) Approve Staff Changes: Teacher Resignation. B. Discussion Items: 1) 2011-2012 Budget Update. 2) 2012-2013 Budget Process Update. 3) Update on Evansville Education Foundation. 4) Update on New Employee Handbook. 5) Update on District Office Staffing Plan. C. Develop Budget Finance Draft Agenda for February 27 Meeting. IV. Policy – Chair, Nancy Hurley - A. First Reading of Policies: 1) Policy #225-Evaluation of the District Administrator. 2) Policy #225.1-Colleague Assessment Questionnaire. 3) Policy #231-Recruitment and Appointment of District Administrator. 4) Policy #232-District Administrator (Job Description). 5) Policy #233-Resignation and Release of District Administrator. B. Develop Policy Agenda Draft Agenda for February 27 Meeting. V. Board Development – Chair, Kathi Swanson - A. Report on January Wisconsin Association of School Boards Convention. B. Strategic Planning Update. C. Update on District Administrator Search. D. Board Evaluation Process. E. Develop Board Development Draft Agenda for February 27 Meeting. VI. Future Agenda – Chair, Kathi Swanson - A. Develop February 13 Regular Board Meeting Agenda. VII. Executive Session – Under Wisconsin Statute 19.85(1)(e) to Discuss Evansville Education Association (EEA) Negotiations. Mission Statement: The Evansville Community School District, in active partnership with families and the community, will provide a positive learning environment that challenges all students to achieve personal excellence and become contributing citizens of the world community.

Evansville Public Works Committee did NOT support Selection Committee decision to select new City Engineer

Public Works Committee Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 27th, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. DPW Shop, 535 South Madison Street, Evansville, WI MINUTES 1. Call meeting to order @ 6:06pm. 2. Roll call; Todd Culbertson, Mason Braunschweig, Dave Wartenweiler, Dave Sauer & Sandy Decker. Cheryl Fuchs was absent. 3. Motion to approve the agenda as presented by Culbertson, seconded by Braunschweig, passed unanimously. 4. 10. New Business- a. Discussion to committee regarding the engineer RFP and subsequent interviews. i. The process was explained to the committee and it was presented to the committee for the committee’s opinions. Wartenweiler expressed the opinion that he was very comfortable with Sauer as engineer and he would hate to see the city go a different way. Todd expressed the fact that he had no comparison and that he had no problem deferring to the committee. 09pm by Culbertson seconded by Braunschweig, passed. Mason Braunschweig, Chair Public Works Committee

"Local Hospital President Explains...": Tales From Normal, Mn.: FICTION

Local Hospital President Explains Millions in Salary: Tales From Normal, Mn.: FICTION The local hospital titan from Normal,Mn announced in a startling press release that his current salary of three million dollars is NOT excessive when one considers that he is the head of 15 different shell organizations that the corporation has been split into---and he further reassured the locals that because he capitalizes his salary, it never affects patient costs---he treats it just like a building expense... And furthermore.....he is in charge of all accounting of the organization. NICE,

Repost:2008: The Deregulation of Wall Street: The Traders Little Book:

Tuesday, February 5, 2008 "Cold Calling Cowboy"----The Wild West ; The Deregulation of Wall Street Over the past thirty years there has been a transition from a structured investment environment to one that is "deregulated"---it has been marked by the end of the era of salaried brokers with higher commissions and research, to a world of $7 trades and computer simulations. It has been a movement from wise older traders to young, churn and burn robots. "Where has been the saving,?" you might ask. I like to compare the situation to the airline industry. Years ago, when airfares were higher, and Northwest Airlines had ZERO debt, the transportation industry and financial services industry was seen as a public sector, where the government had a say in an organized and supervised code of conduct for all participants----those days are gone. When I fly, I always feel more comfortable when I know there has been maintanance done on the engines. The cheapest fare is not consoling if I see flames coming from the engines. Ditto for the financial services industry. When investment just becomes a transaction, when people just become a transaction, and when "churn and burn" becomes the overriding element in business, the customer always loses. Consequently, I reject the notion that nostalgia for the good old days of regulation is senile and old fashioned. I believe it just makes economic sense for the investor. Recently a lone French trader for a bank, using "proprietary trading funds", in the throes of breaking up with his girlfriend, took enormous options risk and....despite the bank even knowing about his risks, but not understanding it or choosing to ignore it for fear they would impede some gains, caused a 7 billion dollar loss. Imagine what would happen worldwide if just a dozen or so financial professionals broke up with their girlfriends. Yes. Girls that is something to consider. You may think you are just breaking up....but you might just be causing a global catastrophe. Be True to your man....o.k. In summary. The incredible catastrophe of ENRON was not just ENRON. The real catastrophe was that as a nation we have modeled our financial institutions on ENRON. And we have the major tactic of DELAY, the verb, not the noun. Posted by Evansville Observer at 1:20 PM

States Facing "Death Spiral"

All across the United States, states, counties, and even cities, and some we might know.....are facing a situation where their local property taxes are 20% above the rest of the country, and at the same time they are considering raising taxes further....at the same time they are facing large declines in job formation...and in fact people are...(whisper it) "leaving." Jobs in government leaving...jobs in the private leaving. National leaders are talking about how much they love to fire people. Governors are refusing to spend even a little to generate job growth..... This puts the individual property owner in a pickle of a situation.....nobody will buy the homes for sale....nobody can afford to buy them if they wanted to....and so people are frozen in place without the stable employment situations that make stable home ownership possible.....Folks are frozen in place... I call this the "Death Spiral." Sound familiar?

OpEd: Utility rate Cases that rely on Past natural gas rates MISLEAD:

Evansville is currently proposing a electric utility rate case to the PUC of Wisconsin based on a return on investment based on OLD natural gas rates needed to generate that electricity....HUH? the whole natural gas environment has been set on its ear with the vast supplies of natural gas that has been discovered due to fracking. Anyone following the natural gas developments knows that supply is up, inventory is up, and gas demand is down bigtime due to warm weather. Those who project the future costs of utilities based on the past are practicing organized deceit. Make a note of it.

Audio: Evansville Council Defies Mayor

Audio; Evansville Common Council: 1/10/2012: Council defies Mayoral appointment as well as recommendation of selection committee of new City Engineer; Defies Wietecha recommendation.


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Audio: Evansville Schools: Enrollment:

Audio: Evansville School Dist: January 9, 2012: Discussion of enrollment for upcoming school year, several options on Sage funding for k-3. Discussion of enrollment trends.


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CapTimes: UW joins with other colleges for bulk E-book purchase

http://host.madison.com/ct/news/local/education/campus_connection/campus-connection-uw-madison-joins-forces-to-bulk-purchase-e/article_3116d5c0-41f8-11e1-985b-001871e3ce6c.html Now that colleges are making the switch to E-books purchased in bulk, the next question is when high schools will follow. The Sooner the better.

Audio: Community Devlopment Block Grants in Evansville

Audio: Common Council: The Evansville Observer asks the question. The Eager Economy Store will begin paying its loan back in 2013.


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School Budget Deficit Requires Preemptive Layoff Notice:

With all the unknown variables, and the looming deadline for layoff notice on March 1, schools that want to be fiscally prudent have to issue a preemptive notice of layoff to all their employees----At the recent meeting, the School Board in Evansville reviewed cuts of $17,000, when the deficit is over 1.5 million. Supr. Carvin said that she felt the deficit would be make up for by "attrition." The inference from this was that no layoffs would be necessary. That is fiction.

Audio: Evansville Council Defies Mayor

Audio; Evansville Common Council: 1/10/2012: Council defies Mayoral appointment as well as recommendation of selection committee of new City Engineer; Defies Wietecha recommendation.


MP3 File The Appointment Recommendation by the Mayor and the Selection Committee was the result of two "L's": LISTENING and LOGIC. If one attended all the meetings over the past five years in the City of Evansville, and then, after reflection, asked what if there would be ONE action, above all others, that would assure that for the next 50 years this city would avoid the pain and problems of the past, what would that action be? The Mayoral appointment was the answer to that question.

Audio: "The Survey": Tourism 1/11/2012

Audio; Evansville Economic Development: Tourism Subcommittee: Meeting 1/11/2012: Some overview and details on the status of the Tourism survey conducted online and some on paper.


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Video: "I just knew she'd Understand" Doc of Rock

Video: "I Just Knew She'd Understand": original lyrics and arrangement by Doc of Rock, Prof. Den Cooper; performed at the Doc of Rock Soul Sessions, River Falls, Nov. 4, 2011

Audio: "The Survey": Tourism 1/11/2012

Audio; Evansville Economic Development: Tourism Subcommittee: Meeting 1/11/2012: Some overview and details on the status of the Tourism survey conducted online and some on paper.


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Evansville Observer Salutes Albany Media Club

Albany Schools now has a Media Club, that in cooperation with a company called Play-on-Sports is filiming school events for web viewing. They have begun with some sports events and are expanding their scope. Bravo!!! Click on the link for their website and clips. I wish Evansville Schools would do the same. What a wonderful idea. The link is : www.wiaa.tv/albany