Racine County, WI – Since it opened over 13 years ago, Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery (SWVMC) near Union Grove has experienced significant growth. “We oversee more than 800 interments annually,” says Director Marian Lewandowski, Jr. That makes SWVMC the fifth busiest state veterans’ cemetery in the nation. Currently there are 74 state cemeteries in operation throughout the United States.

To accommodate increasing demand and to safeguard existing gravesites, SWVMC is undergoing a comprehensive expansion project with a price tag of over $5 million. Funding for the project is provided under the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) State Cemetery Grants Program. The cemetery is sited on 105 acres total and will increase from its current size of 45 developed acres to 80 developed acres.

The expansion project includes new columbaria, standard burial plots, pre-placed crypts, in-ground cremation gravesites, a scattering garden, new roads, irrigation, landscaping, an additional retention pond and extensive supporting infrastructure. The project will ensure capacity for future burial for the next eight to ten years.

Interment Gardens I and J Receive Special Attention

Much of the cemetery has continued to operate normally throughout the expansion project. However, a significant portion known as Interment Gardens I and J is experiencing more extensive work. Improvements to these existing areas were recommended by local and federal project engineers. A new storm water drainage system and proper grading will help manage water flow through the cemetery, which has been an issue.

Improvements will help protect the integrity of these areas for years to come and prepare for continued expansion. Headstones in these areas of the cemetery were removed this past fall in order to protect them from damage as a new layer of soil is added to the area to ensure proper grading. Prior to removal, the entire section was carefully surveyed using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. Each grave marker was inventoried and its exact location recorded. Markers are being stored safely onsite.

Improvements to Interment Gardens I and J have required the patience and understanding of over 400 family members with loved ones buried at SWVMC. Family members were notified of the project last fall. In addition, signs and notifications have been posted at the cemetery. Understandably, some family members are impatient for work to finish so they can again visit the graves.

Director Lewandowski is sympathetic to the concerns of family members. “Every one of our contractors and staff understand the urgency,” he says. “We appreciate the patience the families have shown. We all want this project finished successfully and finished soon. We know our families will be pleased with the end results.”

Frost and Rain Have Been Issues, but Project Nearing Completion

The project grant was approved in the fall of last year and work started soon after. The project focused first on Interment Gardens I and J, hoping to complete work in existing areas before moving on to the expansion project. Unfortunately, frost halted work on headstone removal earlier than expected. Work to this area was limited over the winter months rather than risk damage to grave markers.

Large amounts of rain this spring posed further challenges. Each major rainfall requires two to three days for the area to dry before work can restart. Despite weather-related setbacks, the project is running only approximately two weeks behind schedule. Work in Interment Gardens I and J is expected to be completed by the end of summer and families may again begin visiting these areas once new turf is established, which may take several more weeks. The overall expansion project is expected to be substantially completed in December 2010.

For more information about Wisconsin Veterans Cemeteries and the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, please visit www.WisVets.com, or call WDVA toll-free at 1-800-WIS-VETS (947-8387).

Posted @ 10:04 p.m.

William McReynolds

Racine County, WI – Racine County Executive William McReynolds and Human Services Director Jonathan Delagrave announced today that the Racine County Workforce Development Center has been awarded a $560,580 Transitional Jobs Demonstration Grant from the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families. The grant is funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act; no county funds are required.

“Transitional jobs are time-limited and publicly funded, combining real work, skill development, and support services to help people overcome substantial barriers to employment,” said Alice Oliver, Workforce Development Center Manager.

The Transitional Jobs Project is designed to provide low-income Racine County residents who meet program guidelines with skill development as well as job placement. The core elements of the program include orientation and assessments, job readiness and life skills training, case management and supportive services, a subsidized wage-paying transitional job, assistance in placement in unsubsidized employment, job retention services, and linkages to education and training. Participants will engage in work for up to 40 hours a week and spend additional hours participating in education and training related to skills development.

McReynolds said the project will place out-of-work county residents in the private, non-profit and public sectors for up to six months, with all costs associated with wages and taxes covered by the grant. Project participants will earn $7.25 an hour. There is no requirement that the employer retain the program participant at the end of the transitional job placement.

“This project is good for participants who gain work experience, work history, work reference and a paycheck; and it’s good for local employers and the community,” said Delagrave.

Employers interested in being the employer of record or hosting a program participant can log onto www.wdc.racineco.com to learn more and submit a proposal or application by noon on Friday, August 6. Recruitment for program participants will begin in the near future.

Posted @ 10:10 p.m.

“We are pleased to have you as a member of the Wisconsin ICAC Task Force and pledge our full support to you as we work together to make Wisconsin safer for our children,” said Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen.

As part of this affiliation, the Town of Burlington Police Department is eligible for:

- Reimbursement to help fund ICAC related expenses, including computer hardware and software;

- Notification of and priority for sought-after ICAC related training, offered both nationally and in Wisconsin;

- Investigative assistance from highly trained ICAC investigators and forensic computer analysts throughout the state;

- Access to the national ICAC email group;

- Recognition on both the Town of Burlington Police Department’s website, and on the Wisconsin Department of Justice website.

“On behalf of the Town of Burlington, I am proud to announce our police department’s affiliation with the Wisconsin Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Our affiliation with the Wisconsin ICAC Task Force will enhance our ability to detect predators, and aid in their prosecution both proactively and reactively. Additionally, community awareness and prevention is an agency objective. There will be local prevention and awareness programs in subjects such as cyber-bullying and Internet safety/awareness for both parents and children,” said Town of Burlington Police Chief Michael P. Sevick.

To learn more about the ICAC Task Force program at the Town of Burlington Police Department, contact Investigator Jon Massie at (262) 763-7539.

This year marks the 11th anniversary of the founding of the Wisconsin Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. “In the past decade, Wisconsin’s ICAC Task Force and Affiliate Agencies have arrested 728 suspects, executed 1,017 search warrants, and rescued countless numbers of children throughout the state,” said Van Hollen.

According to Van Hollen, there are over 22,304 internet protocol addresses in Wisconsin containing and offering to distribute known images of child pornography. One in seven children are asked online to engage in sexual activities, sexual talk, or provide personal sexual information.

Van Hollen has placed a priority on law enforcement’s proactive response to the growing problem of internet crimes against children. To that end, Van Hollen has directed a 67% increase in the number of special agents assigned to the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force within the Division of Criminal Investigation.

In addition to expanding investigative capacity internally, Van Hollen and the Department of Justice have continued to add additional local affiliates to the Wisconsin ICAC Task Force. The number of local law enforcement partners to the Department of Justice’s ICAC Task Force has increased by more than five times to 154 since Attorney General Van Hollen took office.

You can access a list of affiliates at http://www.doj.state.wi.us/dci/icac/afflist.asp.

“Let internet predators take note. Our commitment is unceasing. We will identify you, arrest you, and take you off the street; we will follow you to every area of the internet, no matter where you try to hide; and we will work together in law enforcement to stay one step ahead of you,” said Van Hollen.

For more information on how your community can become an affiliate of the Wisconsin ICAC Task Force contact Michelle Dubois at (608) 266-1671.

Posted @ 10:06 p.m.

Attorney General J.B.Van Hollen

Madison, WI — The Department of Justice has filed an enforcement action in Racine County Circuit Court against Prestige Business Solutions, Inc., a New Jersey corporation that operates a nationwide locksmith business under the name USA Locksmith. The complaint is the result of a joint investigation by the Department of Justice and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection into fraudulent locksmith advertising.

According to the complaint, Prestige has no business locations in Wisconsin, but contracts with locksmiths to handle service requests received at Prestige’s out-of-state call center. The state alleges that Prestige engaged in deceptive advertising to create the false impression that a consumer was calling a local locksmith business. Prestige accomplished this in multiple ways:

1) by using numerous business names that reference a local community, such as Racine Locksmith, Racine 24 Hour Emergency Locksmith, Racine 24 7 Available Locksmith, Racine Available Emergency Locksmith, Racine Anytime Anywhere Emergency Locksmith, Racine Always Available Emergency Locksmith, and Racine 24 Hour Locksmith;

2) by listing phony addresses for each business name, which either belongs to other businesses or at which no buildings exist; and

3) by listing local phone numbers for most of the business names in its advertisements, which, when dialed, transfer the call (unbeknownst to the caller) to Prestige’s outof- state call center, which then dispatches a contract locksmith to perform the requested service.

“We will not tolerate such dishonesty in advertising, and my office will continue to work towards ensuring that Wisconsin consumers are not mislead about products and services being marketed to them,” said Attorney General Van Hollen.

The complaint asks the court to impose forfeitures against the defendants for violations of Wisconsin’s fraudulent advertising statute, and to order the defendants to halt their fraudulent advertising.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General John S. Greene and has been assigned to Racine County Circuit Court Judge Richard J. Kreul.

Posted @ 3:30 p.m.

Racine, WI – State Senate candidate Van Wanggaard became Wisconsin’s first state senate candidate to qualify for the November ballot, as his campaign submitted well-over the required number of signatures to the Government Accountability Board on Tuesday.

“I am thrilled to be the first senate candidate to qualify for the November ballot,” Wanggaard said. “Our campaign turned in almost double the number of signatures necessary to qualify, and I am looking forward to continuing with an aggressive door-knocking plan in the coming months.

“Our campaign’s success with this door-to-door effort reaffirmed that we are a top-tier organization, and that our grassroots strength will be the key to defeating a special-interest-backed incumbent in November. It also reaffirms that the days of the state senate’s liberal, job-killing, tax-andspend policies will be over in 2011.

“I am encouraged by the outpouring of support that I received from every corner of the district. Racine County voters are looking for a new direction, and are seeking someone who will listen to their concerns while representing them in Madison. I decided to waste no time ensuring my name will be next to John Lehman’s on the November ballot.”

Wanggaard’s campaign recently launched a new website, www.voteforvan.com, in order to better manage the influx of supporters to the campaign.

Posted @ 1:22 p.m.

Rep. Robin Vos

Mount Pleasant, WI – Samm Markstrom is a 10 year old ham radio operator (KC9POP) in Mount Pleasant, WI who has cerebral palsy. Ham radio has helped Samm deal with his disability. Recently, Samm won an award for heroism for his ham radio work. Now The Village of Mount Pleasant wants Samm to stop operating and take down his ham radio tower.

The Mount Pleasant village board has been provided with permit fees, schematics and photos of it’s installation. The tower has been inspected by professional engineers and proven it is safe. Also submitted to the board were documents proving the tower is well within FCC regulations. Samm’s neighbors signed documents that they are not receiving interference from the tower. The family will meet with the zoning board 2pm Wednesday April 21, 2010.

Regulations of Amateur Radio antenna towers are governed by the Federal Communications Commission and the National Supremacy Clause specifically prohibits local governing bodies from regulating such structures. The FCC has codified this into PRB-1 in 1985.

Link Federal Preemption of State and Local Regulations Pertaining to Amateur Radio Facilities
http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/index.htm?job=prb-1&id=amateur&page=1

The State of Wisconsin also codified this legislation into law in 2001 Wisconsin state statutes ACT 50 2001, 59.69 (4f), 60.61 (3d), 62.23(7) (hf)

Facebook Link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Save-Samms-Tower/119149768101053

T-ext of Wisconsin State Statutes Below:

59.69(4f)
(4f) Amateur radio antennas. The board may not enact an ordinance or adopt a resolution on or after April 17, 2002, or continue to enforce an ordinance or resolution on or after April 17, 2002, that affects the placement, screening, or height of antennas, or antenna support structures, that are used for amateur radio communications unless all of the following apply:

59.69(4f)(a)
(a) The ordinance or resolution has a reasonable and clearly defined aesthetic, public health, or safety objective, and represents the minimum practical regulation that is necessary to accomplish the objectives.

59.69(4f)(b)
(b) The ordinance or resolution reasonably accommodates amateur radio communications.

60.61(3d)
(3d) Amateur radio antennas. The town board may not enact an ordinance or adopt a resolution on or after April 17, 2002, or continue to enforce an ordinance or resolution on or after April 17, 2002, that affects the placement, screening, or height of antennas, or antenna support structures, that are used for amateur radio communications unless all of the following apply:

60.61(3d)(a)
(a) The ordinance or resolution has a reasonable and clearly defined aesthetic, public health, or safety objective, and represents the minimum practical regulation that is necessary to accomplish the objectives.

60.61(3d)(b)
(b) The ordinance or resolution reasonably accommodates amateur radio communications.

62.23(7)(hf)
(hf) Amateur radio antennas. The governing body of a city may not enact an ordinance or adopt a resolution on or after April 17, 2002, or continue to enforce an ordinance or resolution on or after April 17, 2002, that affects the placement, screening, or height of antennas, or antenna support structures, that are used for amateur radio communications unless all of the following apply:

62.23(7)(hf)1.
1. The ordinance or resolution has a reasonable and clearly defined aesthetic, public health, or safety objective, and represents the minimum practical regulation that is necessary to accomplish the objectives.

62.23(7)(hf)2.
2. The ordinance or resolution reasonably accommodates amateur radio communications.

Posted @ 8:00 p.m.

Rep. Robin Vos

Racine County, WI – Racine County Executive BIll McReynolds announced last month that the Racine County prescription discount card has saved Racine County residents almost $500,000 in the last 27 months.

If you’re not familiar with the program, it was instituted in November 2007 to help Racine County residents cope with the high cost of prescription drugs.  The card is offered through the National Association of Counties and administered by CVS Caremark. On average, cardholders enjoy discounts of 25% at more than 57,000 retail pharmacies throughout the nation, and at almost every pharmacy in Racine County.

The best thing about this discount card is it’s free and available to every Racine County resident, regardless of age or income. There’s also no enrollment form, no application, no membership fee and no limit on how much you can use the card.

The Racine County Executive and Board deserve a great deal of credit for taking advantage of  large-group buying power.  I would encourage everyone to obtain the card to help out with their monthly family budget.

You can print your own cards at home by going to http://www.rxprintacard.biz/naco/.  You can also call 1-877-321-2652 or by log on to https://naco.advancerx.com.

Posted @ 7:00 a.m.

Madison, WI —For only the second time in the Wisconsin Lottery’s 22-year history a $1 million winning ticket has gone unclaimed and has expired.

A ticket sold in Caledonia in Racine County for the Wednesday, August 26 Powerball drawing was worth $1 million to the player who purchased it—up until yesterday. As of today, the 180-day prize claim period has expired and the $1 million will go into the funds the Lottery returns to state residents to help offset property taxes.

“We love to pay our winners, so this is very disappointing,” said Mike Edmonds, Lottery director. “The silver lining is that the money doesn’t disappear. It will help taxpayers.”

The ticket was sold at Mobil on the Park, 911 S. 27th St. in Caledonia. It matched all five regular winning Powerball numbers in the August 26 drawing to earn the ticket holder a $200,000 prize. But, because the player also purchased the game’s Power Play prize multiplier feature, the $200,000 prize was automatically multiplied by five.

Power Play turned the $200,000 ticket into a $1 million winner.

Time has now turned it into a worthless piece of paper.

“In six months we had no phone calls, no stories about the ticket being lost, or accidentally thrown away; no word of any kind,” said Edmonds. “it was very unusual.”

Only once before has a Wisconsin Lottery prize of this size gone unclaimed. A $1 million ticket sold in Crivitz in 1993 was never redeemed.

Posted @ 3:43 p.m.

“I’m gratified and humbled by the financial support my campaign has received over the last six months,” said Lehman reporting 549 donors made contributions averaging $61 between July 1 and December 31 of 2009. Lehman in total reported $36,583 raised and $3540 in expenses over the six months.

Even though Lehman, as he has for over a decade, refrained from soliciting campaign donations during consideration of the state budget the campaign ended the year with nearly $70,000 in the bank and continues to show strong fundraising through the first month of 2010.

Lehman commented, “The campaign fundraising is far ahead of where I was four years ago when I defeated County Executive McReynolds. And, with the continued support of friends and neighbors, we’re on track to have the resources to run a strong race again in 2010.”

At this point in the 2006 campaign cycle Lehman had roughly $50,000 in the bank, eventually raising and spending about $220,000 in his successful effort. His Republican opponent, sitting County Executive Bill McReynolds, raised and spent over $400,000.

In addition to big spending Republican candidates, special interests like the big business lobby WMC and All Children Matter, primarily funded by the out-of-state heirs to the Wal-Mart and Amway fortunes, have combined to make the 21st Senate District highly competitive.

Lehman concluded, “We proved in the past and are prepared to prove it again in 2010 – a strong grassroots campaign, a proven record of standing up for the middle class, working families, kids and seniors of Racine County and the resources to get our message out can beat big spending Republicans and the special interests.”

Posted @ 10:00 p.m.

Attorney General J.B.Van Hollen

Racine,WI – The Village of Mount Pleasant Police Department has joined the Wisconsin Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.

“We are pleased to have you as a member of the Wisconsin ICAC Task Force and pledge our full support to you as we work together to make Wisconsin safer for our children,” said Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen.

As part of this affiliation, the Village of Mount Pleasant Police Department is eligible for:

• Reimbursement to help fund ICAC related expenses, including computer hardware and software;
• Notification of and priority for sought-after ICAC related training, offered both nationally and in Wisconsin;
• Investigative assistance from highly trained ICAC investigators and forensic computer analysts throughout the state;
• Access to the national ICAC email group;
• Recognition on both the Village of Mount Pleasant Police Department’s website, and on the Wisconsin Department of Justice website;

“We are very pleased to be a member of the ICAC Task Force with the Wisconsin Department of Justice. Locally, we are experiencing predators’ trying to contact children through the internet. We are looking forward to working with the Department of Justice to provide us with training and assist us in our investigations. They have done an outstanding job with these types of cases,” said Chief Tim Zarzecki.

To learn more about the ICAC Task Force program at the Village of Mount Pleasant Police Department, contact Sgt. Det. Bill Klaus at (262) 884-0454 or via e-mail at wklaus@mtpleasantwi.gov.

This year marks the 10^th anniversary of the founding of the Wisconsin Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. “In the past decade, Wisconsin’s ICAC Task Force and Affiliate Agencies have arrested 639 suspects, executed 808 search warrants, and rescued countless numbers of children throughout the state,” said Van Hollen.

According to Van Hollen, there are over 22,304 internet protocol addresses in Wisconsin containing and offering to distribute known images of child pornography. One in seven children are asked online to engage in sexual activities, sexual talk, or provide personal sexual information.

Van Hollen has placed a priority on law enforcement’s proactive response to the growing problem of internet crimes against children. To that end, Van Hollen has directed a 67% increase in the number of special agents assigned to the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force within the Division of Criminal Investigation.

In addition to expanding investigative capacity internally, Van Hollen and the Department of Justice have continued to add additional local affiliates to the Wisconsin ICAC Task Force. The number of local law enforcement partners to the Department of Justice’s ICAC Task Force has quadrupled to 112 since Attorney General Van Hollen took office. You can access a list of affiliates at http://www.doj.state.wi.us/dci/icac/afflist.asp.

For more information on how your community can become an affiliate of the Wisconsin ICAC Task Force contact Kris Midthun at (715) 839-3831, midthunkm@doj.state.wi.us.

Posted @ 2:15 p.m.

Mercury Waste Solutions, located at 21211 Durand Ave., was the site of an equipment malfunction in 2003 and again in 2006.  Under the company’s Resource Recovery and Conservation Act permit the facility must be maintained in a manner that minimizes the possibility of a fire, explosion or release of a hazardous waste.  EPA inspectors found that the company failed to do so.

The compliance order also resolves allegations that the company has completed several projects to address the violations and minimize potential risk including installation of an air scrubber, a mercury monitoring system and an air breathing system that would supply air to employees in case of an incident.  Mercury Waste Solutions has also upgraded its control system, sealed facility floors and built a training room.

The compliance order also resolves allegations that the company violated federal rules on PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) including failure to document PCB storage, prepare spill prevention and control plans, and properly mark the PCB storage area.

Posted @ 12:38 p.m.

EPA regulates the proper cleanup, disposal, marking, record-keeping, storage and limited use of PCBs under the Toxic Substances Control Act.  PCBs are a group of toxic chemicals, once used widely in industry as coolants and lubricants.  EPA banned the manufacture of PCBs in 1979 because of evidence that they accumulate in the environment and present health hazards for people.

Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, EPA regulates hazardous waste from production to final disposal.

Rep. Robin Vos

Madison, WI – A bipartisan bill that takes initial steps to reform the fraudulent Wisconsin Shares child care program passed the Joint Finance committee today. Rep. Vos (RCaledonia) says after months of deliberation on the problem, these first steps are laudable. However, he expressed frustration that Racine representative Cory Mason would vote against an amendment to appropriate $1 million to help counties root out more fraud.

“It’s outrageous to think that Rep. Mason would vote against sending additional resources to Racine County,” declared Vos “when the nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureau and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel have so clearly shown that Racine County has a major problem with childcare fraud.”

Vos said it was clear after meeting with Milwaukee and Racine Counties that trying to reform Wisconsin Shares without providing adequate monetary resources for fraud detection would be difficult, if not impossible.

According to Vos, the Department of Children and Families has started off on the right track by convening a fraud detection taskforce, hiring 5 state employees to oversee fraud detection, and allocating some extra resources that will be distributed to counties. But he believes it’s also important to make sure there are enough local resources so people on the front lines are empowered to root out fraud.

“The Department of Children and Families has clearly seen that extra resources are needed, Racine County says extra resources are needed, and Sen. Lehman and I recognized that need by voting for this amendment today,” said Vos. “That’s why it’s so disappointing that Rep. Mason would vote against his own county”

During the Joint Finance Debate, Rep. Mason said he had real concerns with allocating more money to Racine County when they clearly had problems with enforcement and that he wasn’t inclined to give them more money until we get better fraud investigation from Racine County than Journal Sentinel reporters. Vos says the pressure on the County is a direct result of cuts made at the state level.

Assembly Bill 462 is expected to be taken up by both houses on Thursday. Rep. Vos says he will try again to convince the members of the Assembly to provide adequate resources to counties as well as to support amendments that focus on cracking down on recipients of child care subsidies, not just providers – the major focus of the current bill.

Posted @ 10:07 p.m.

Van Wanggaard

Racine, WI – Earlier today, state senate candidate Van Wanggaard expressed his support for Racine county officials’ proposals on how to fight public assistance fraud. Wanggaard also criticized his opponent’s decision to support a bill stripping the county of the funds needed to accomplish the
task.

“I applaud County Executive William McReynolds’ efforts to fight fraud in the Wisconsin Shares child care subsidy program,” Wanggaard said. “The plan that he and Human Services Director Debra Jossart presented to the Secretary Bicha of the Department of Children and Families lays out comprehensive and tough-minded approaches to dealing with the ongoing problem of criminals exploiting a program that was designed to ensure quality daycare for our children. While DCF is clearly making an effort to work with county governments to address the issue, it was Racine County that proactively sought to coordinate efforts to find and prosecute fraud cases.

Although my opponent, Senator John Lehman, claims to be an advocate of fighting fraud in the public assistance program, he fails to mention that he voted for a state budget that eliminated Racine’s share of state dollars to fund fraud prevention efforts.”

An astonishing number of fraudulent reimbursement claims have been uncovered after several high-profile media reports and state audits showed daycare providers accepting payments for services that were not being provided. Further investigations turned up serious oversight shortfalls in the program, including cases of child care providers residing at addresses of
registered sex offenders.

Racine County has received funding from the state to fight fraud in the Wisconsin Shares program since its inception. The state budget that was passed several months ago eliminated all funds that would have been sent to the county to fund the essential operation. Incumbent state senator John Lehman voted for the budget.

“Ensuring that our taxpayer dollars are being spent on essential child care services, and not being fraudulently obtained by opportunistic criminals, is of utmost importance,” Wanggaard said. “More importantly, taking away funding for oversight efforts to ensure our childrens’ safety is reckless and irresponsible. John Lehman needs to be held accountable for his support of a state budget which takes tools away from Racine County to fight fraud in the Shares program.”

Posted @ 11:00 a.m.

William L. McReynolds

Racine, WI – Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds  has announced that it was one of three counties and one Indian tribe recently recognized for its Drug Endangered Children (DEC) Program. The recognition came at last week’s statewide conference of the Wisconsin Alliance on Drug Endangered
Children. Said McReynolds: “Few things are more important than protecting children from the consequences of drug possession, use, distribution, or manufacture in their homes. This multi-agency group is helping make Racine County a better and safer place for our children.”

DEC programs are multi-disciplinary teams typically consisting of members from law enforcement, human services, prosecutors, the medical community, the health department, and probation and parole. Through the DEC program, organizations within a community or tribe work together to enhance their response to the immediate needs of drug-endangered children and to gather adequate evidence to substantiate prosecution of appropriate endangerment and other charges.

McReynolds noted that Racine County’s program had drawn particular attention because it had been organized and implemented in only one year. He attributed that to a strong sense of commitment and collaboration among the participating agencies from all across the county: Racine County Human
Services Department, Sheriff’s Department, and District Attorney’s Office; the Police Departments of the Town and City of Burlington, Caledonia, Mount Pleasant, Norway, Racine, Sturtevant, and the Town and Village of Waterford; the City of Racine and South Shore Fire Departments; the Health Departments of the City of Racine, Caledonia/Mt. Pleasant, and Western Racine County; and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin.

At the conference, plaques were presented to the four recognized programs by Stephen P. Sinnott, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin; Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen; Wisconsin Corrections Secretary Rick Raemisch; Dennis Schuh of the Wisconsin Office of
Justice Assistance; and Kim Eithun-Harshner of the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families.

Posted @ 2:25 a.m.

Sen. John Lehman

Madison,WI – The following is a statement from Senator John Lehman regarding the announcement of an outline of new regional transit legislation for Southeastern Wisconsin:

“I’m pleased that the Governor has agreed to work on a bill with legislators from Southeastern Wisconsin to strengthen the application for federal New Starts funding for the KRM commuter rail line and bolster regional mass transit.

In Racine County, we need the jobs and new economic activity that the KRM line will generate. By more closely connecting communities in the Milwaukee – Chicago corridor we could see over 70,000 jobs supported or created and over $450 million in construction and rail related economic activity.

We made great progress on KRM in the budget as signed into law – providing a governance structure, dedicating the car rental fee as the local funding source, setting aside state bonding authority to help with construction and creating a new mass transit operating aid tier to help fund its operation.

But in my conversations with federal representatives it is clear that to present the strongest possible final KRM application Milwaukee County’s bus system needs to be revitalized and that new opportunities for associated mass transit development throughout the region would be advantageous.

The principles outlined today could help make the strongest possible KRM application while preserving local decision making, keeping locally raised transit funding local and requiring that the people of Racine County are heard from before a transit funding source not already allowed under current law is pursued.

Arriving at a final bill that can pass the legislature and be signed in to law will not be easy and many difficult details remain to be worked out. However this outline is a promising start, continuing to move KRM forward while protecting the ability of our Racine County communities to decide how to operate and fund our bus system.”

Posted @ 11:25 p.m.

Sec. of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki

Washington, D.C. – Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki has announced a grant of $3,896,563 from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to expand the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove.

“By supporting expansion of this cemetery, VA helps ensure that memorial benefits for Wisconsin Veterans will be available for many more years,” said Secretary Shinseki. “We are proud to partner with the state Department of Veterans Affairs to commemorate their service and sacrifice of Wisconsin’s Veterans.”

The cemetery expansion grant will provide 100 percent funding for the development of a 22-acre parcel. This phase of development will include 419 standard burial plots, 3,484 preplaced crypts and 1,595 in-ground cremation gravesites. The grant will also fund construction of roads, a committal shelter, a scatter garden, irrigation, landscaping and supporting infrastructure.

The 105-acre cemetery, approximately 30 miles south of Milwaukee, was established with the assistance of a VA grant in 1996. The closest national cemetery that is able to provide full burial benefits is Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Ill., approximately 110 miles south. The closest state cemetery is the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in King, Wis., approximately 150 miles north.

VA’s State Cemetery Grants Program was designed to complement its 130 national cemeteries across the country. Since 1980, the program has awarded grants totaling more than $389.5 million to establish, expand or improve 74 Veterans cemeteries in 38 states or territories. These state cemeteries provided nearly 25,000 burials in 2008.

Residents of Wisconsin who are Veterans with a discharge issued under conditions other than dishonorable, their spouses and eligible dependent children may be buried in the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery. For more information about this cemetery, call 262-878-5660, or visit http://dva.state.wi.us/cemeteries.asp.

Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from the Internet at www.cem.va.gov or by calling VA regional offices toll-free at 800-827-1000.

Posted @ 6:30 a.m.

Racine County Exec. William L. McReynolds

Racine County,WI – Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds today announced that the county is borrowing capital funds at an effective rate of 2.20%, by taking advantage of a special bond-issuing authority under the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The bonds, known as Recovery Zone Economic Development Bonds (RZEDBs), pay taxable interest, normally somewhat higher than the interest rates on tax-free local government obligations. However, under this program, the U.S. Government reimburses the county for 45% of the interest it pays on the bonds. For that reason, the county’s effective interest rate will be only 2.20%.

McReynolds credited the county’s Finance Director, Doug Stansil, and the county’s financial advisor, Robert W. Baird & Co., for helping Racine County be the first Wisconsin county—and reportedly only the seventh county in the nation—to utilize this program. “Baird helped us break new ground,” said McReynolds, “and we are extremely pleased with the outcome.”

McReynolds said: “We had planned to issue a little over $4.3 million in bonds for our annual capital needs. When we realized that we could save our taxpayers money by taking advantage of this ARRA program, we did so. Over the 10 years, we expect to save $150,000 in interest.”

McReynolds also noted that Racine County was very pleased at the bids on the bonds. Eight firms bid, with the highest bid being 4.24% and the lowest (and successful) bid being only 3.94%. He said: “These are excellent rates, especially for taxable bonds. To get eight bids at those rates means that investment professionals see Racine County as well-managed, reliable, and a safe place to invest.”

Under ARRA, certain municipal issuers are eligible to issue RZEDBs, through 2010, for improvements within a “recovery zone.” The recovery zone designation is determined by the governing body and is based on findings of significant poverty, unemployment, rate of home foreclosures or general distress. The U.S. Government identified Racine County as eligible for this designation, and the County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution designating the county to be a recovery zone.

Posted @ 12:43 p.m.

In September 2007, the Real Estate Appraisers Board ordered Seewald to complete six educational courses by September 2008 after finding he inadequately supervised a number of appraisals. At its August 12, 2009 meeting, the Board found that Seewald had only completed two of the six courses and ordered a summary suspension against him. The suspension remains in effect until the Board issues a final decision and order in the current disciplinary proceedings against him for failure to complete the required educational courses.

Posted @ 11:52 a.m.

Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds

Racine County, WI – County Executive Bill McReynolds today announced that the State of Wisconsin is awarding Racine County federal stimulus funds for projects on County Trunk Highways (CTH) G and K. McReynolds said: “This is great news for Racine County property taxpayers. It will relieve them of the cost of doing some necessary work on two important county highways.”

McReynolds explained that, when the state first asked counties to nominate projects for stimulus funding, these projects were Racine County’s top two priorities. The county’s third priority was a bike trail project, which was the only one of the three originally selected by the state for funding. Since then, the state has found that projects selected from other counties are either coming in at lower costs than estimated, or are not as ready for work as had been hoped. As a result, the state has given a second look to projects, such as Racine County’s, that had not previously been chosen.

McReynolds said: “These projects were in our first submission to the state, and we were disappointed when they were not selected. We are glad that the state has come to recognize that these are important projects and that the work done by Racine County’s Public Works staff provides assurance that they will be done in a timely and cost-effective manner.”

The CTH G project will involve design and reconstruction between Union Church Drive and USH- 45. The amount awarded for that project is expected to be $2,638,350. The CTH K project will involve design and reconstruction between CTH-S (East Wind Lake Road) and Overson Road. The amount awarded for that project is expected to be $1,212,780. The work on both projects is expected to occur in 2010.

- Cost: $5/per person per hour, with a minimum of 2 hours. 

- Dates: daily from 7/31/09-9/30/09.  Times: 8:30 am-4:00 pm. 

For more information or to register call 262-639-0930.

Posted @ 7:00 a.m.

Racine County Executive William L. McReynolds

Racine County- Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds announced today that county government will receive its seventh consecutive Digital Counties award for its use of information technology (IT) to deliver services to its residents. Among all the counties in its population category, Racine County placed fifth, its seventh top-10 ranking in a row.

The recognition comes out of the 2009 Digital Counties Survey, an annual study by the Center for Digital Government and the National Association of Counties (NACo) that identifies best practices and recognizes those counties with exemplary digital service to their citizens. The Digital Counties Survey is conducted annually during March and April. All U.S. counties are invited to participate.

McReynolds said, “It’s clear to us that information technology is vital to ensuring that we provide our citizens the best service at the lowest possible cost.” He added that the county’s Information Systems department, headed by its new director, Terry DeBrabander, and the county’s IT service vendor, Premier Workforce Solutions, have developed the kind of partnership that could serve other local governments equally well.

The 2009 Digital Counties Survey grouped counties into four population categories: 500,000 or more; 250,000-499,999; 150,000-249,999 (Racine County’s category); and less than 150,000. No other Wisconsin county placed among the top ten in any population category. The full list of winners can be found at http://www.govtech.com/dc/surveys/counties/90

“As counties face the budgetary challenges of 2009 and beyond, they are finding Information Technology essential for effective and efficient government,” said NACo Executive Director Larry E. Naake. “Not only
are county governments using technology to continue delivering services with fewer resources, they are using innovative technology to communicate more effectively with their citizens and businesses. The
Digital Counties Survey illustrates the innovation and tenacity of counties across the country.” Awardwinning counties were recognized at NACo’s annual conference in Nashville, Tennessee, July 24-29, 2009.

The Center for Digital Government is a national research and advisory institute on information technology policies and best practices in state and local government. For more than two decades, the Center and its
sister divisions, Government Technology magazine, GTCs and Center for Digital Education, have been providing public- and private-sector leaders with decision support, knowledge and opportunities to help
them succeed in 21st century government.
Posted @ 11:50 a.m.

Racine County Executive William L. McReynolds

Racine County, WI – Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds and Racine County Circuit Court Judge Gerald Ptacek announced yesterday that the U. S. Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Assistance has awarded the county a two-year $200,000 grant to enhance its Drug and Alcohol Treatment Court.

McReynolds stated: “The Treatment Court is an important part of Racine County’s use of alternatives to reduce incarceration costs by addressing the treatment needs of defendants. This grant will allow more people to participate and benefit. I congratulate the Treatment Court Team for obtaining the grant.”

The Treatment Court began receiving clients in early 2006. The Court combines treatment with the court process in a post-conviction model, in an 18-month, 3-phase program. To participate, an individual must be a Racine County resident, have a diagnosed substance abuse problem and be a non-violent offender.

After the person receives a drug and alcohol assessment, the Treatment Court Team determines eligibility for the program. Participants are required to participate in evidence-based treatment, attend self-help meetings; all are supervised on intensive, high-risk community supervision.

Through 2008 the program has received 32 referrals, accepted 28 participants and yielded a savings of 1,135 jail bed days in 2007 and 2,600 in 2008. It currently has 12 active participants. In addition to cash and in-kind contributions to the program, Racine County has provided at least $40,000 annually to fund AODA treatment and a part-time Treatment Court Coordinator.

Treatment Court Team members include Judge Gerald Ptacek; Juan Ureta, Assistant District Attorney; Adrienne Moore and Carolyn Delery, State Public Defender’s Office; Kevin Brown, Sheriff’s Department; Mark Cacciotti, Division of Community Corrections; Cheryl Zimmerman, Zimmerman Consulting, Inc.; and Mary Jane Whitmore, Racine Psychological Services (Treatment Court Coordinator).

The money comes through the Adult Drug Court Discretionary Grant Program, provides funding to existing Treatment Courts to enhance and expand their services. The funding will allow Racine County to extend Treatment Court services to up to 60-70 participants during the two-year grant period. Funding will also be used to provide timely access to Intensive Outpatient treatment for those who need it.

“This grant is important to our community,” said Judge Ptacek. “As the Treatment Court Judge I have watched the lives of participants improve as they overcome their addictions. Studies have shown that the Treatment Court approach reduces relapse and recidivism. Increased funding will increase the positive impact this program is having on our community,” he added.

Posted @ 5:00 a.m.

Racine County Executive William L. McReynolds

Racine – Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds today announced a county program that leverages American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA) stimulus funds to provide employment for displaced workers and improve the quality of the environment along the Fox and Root Rivers.

Using supplemental ARRA funds for Displaced Workers, under the Workforce Investment Act, the county is providing supervisory job training for two Full-time Equivalent (FTE) positions. The individuals will learn and apply front-line supervisory skills and techniques while providing direct supervision to clean-up crews working along the two rivers. The clean-up crews consist of work release-eligible Racine County Jail inmates. Like the inmates mowing grass in highway medians, those working on river clean-up are not paid for their work, but earn time off their jail sentences, at a rate of one hour off for every hour worked.

McReynolds said, “I have insisted that, if Racine County uses stimulus dollars, it must do so in ways that don’t cost the county more in the short term or the long term. And I am a firm believer in leveraging as much value as we can out of funds we get from the state and federal governments. This project meets all those requirements.”

McReynolds commended the Racine County Workforce Development Center and project vendor Zimmerman Consulting, Inc. for devising a program that produces measurable benefits to the displaced workers who receive the training, appreciably improves the cleanliness and appearance of the county’s prized river resources, and places no burden on the county property tax levy. “This is the kind of program,” he said, “that county residents can be proud of.”

McReynolds will visit the project at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, July 21, 2009, at Case Eagle Park, in the Village of Rochester. DIRECTIONS TO CASE EAGLE PARK: From east: West on County Trunk Highway (CTH) D, past State Trunk Highway (STH) 36 to English Settlement Avenue/CTH J; then south on English Settlement Avenue/ CTH J for about ¼ mile. From north: South on STH 36 to English Settlement Avenue/CTH J; then north on English Settlement Avenue/CTH J to about ¼ mile south of CTH D. From south: North on STH 36 to English Settlement Avenue/CTH J; then north on English Settlement Avenue/CTH J to about ¼ mile south of CTH D.

Posted @ 11:48 a.m.

Racine County Executive William L. McReynolds

Racine, WI – Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds today announced that Racine County residents impacted by the June 18-19 storms can apply for low interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Flash flooding in Racine County resulted in several hundred homes being affected.

“While there was not enough damage to warrant assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the SBA can also issue a disaster declaration,” explained McReynolds. The SBA’s declaration covers Kenosha, Racine, Milwaukee, Walworth, Waukesha counties, as well as Lake and McHenry counties in Illinois.

Although these loans come from the Small Business Administration, they are not limited to businesses; individual homeowners and renters may also apply for them. Loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.

Businesses and non-profit organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. The SBA also provides mitigation funds to disaster victims based on 20 percent of the verified physical damage. These funds are designed to help borrowers pay for protective measures to minimize damages of the same kind in the future.

Interest rates are as low as 2.437 percent for homeowners and renters, and 4 percent for businesses, with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

On Tuesday, July 21, 2009, the SBA will open up a Disaster Loan Outreach Center to issue loan applications, answer questions about the program, explain the application process and help individuals complete applications. The Center will be located at the Sturtevant Village Hall, 2801 89th Street, Sturtevant, Wisconsin 53177. The Center will remain open through Friday, July 31, 2009.

Hours of operation are:
Tuesday – Friday, July 21-24: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, July 25: 8 a.m. to 12 noon
Sunday, July 26: Closed
Monday – Thursday, July 27-30: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday, July 31: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Individuals and businesses unable to visit this or another SBA Center in person may obtain information and loan applications by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the hearing impaired), Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT, or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Business loan applications can also be downloaded from the SBA website at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. Completed applications should be returned to one of the Centers or mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center,
14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

Posted @ 2:00 p.m.

Victims may apply for disaster loans from SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is September 14, 2009. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 15, 2010.

Sheriff Robert Carlson

Racine County, WI  – Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds and Sheriff Robert Carlson today announced a vegetation control/grass mowing program for medians in state and U.S. highways in the county.

The county’s maintenance of county trunk highways includes regular mowing of medians and shoulders. But it maintains state and U.S. highways within the county on behalf, and under the direction, of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). For 2009, WisDOT has directed all Wisconsin counties to limit their mowing activities on state highways to a single complete mowing operation, plus more frequent mowing in those places where vegetation growth causes safety hazards. WisDOT will not pay counties for more frequent mowing.

Racine County cannot afford the costs of having its Public Works Department staff and major equipment maintaining state highways without being paid by the state. But McReynolds and Carlson have devised a plan to keep medians mown at virtually no cost to local taxpayers.

Racine County Jail inmates who are eligible for the inmate work program will use push-type power lawn mowers to mow medians in state highways where mowing is not being done at state expense. Inmates will not be paid for their work, but they earn time off their jail sentences, at a rate of one hour off for every hour worked. Any mowing or other vegetation control work done along state or U.S. highways at state expense will be performed by Racine County Public Works Department employees. Jail inmates will mow only in those areas along state or U.S. highways for which the state will not pay.

Racine County Executive William L. McReynolds

McReynolds said: “It’s important that highways entering our communities, especially in urbanized areas, present a welcoming appearance to our visitors. But especially in these difficult economic times, Racine County cannot afford to do the state’s work for it, without being paid. That’s why we’re relying on jail inmates to help.” Carlson added: “This is a good deal for everyone. It spruces up the community, it protects property taxpayers, and it gives some of our more reliable inmates a chance to get out into the fresh air and work some time off their sentences.”

Both Carlson and McReynolds, a former sheriff, praised inmate worker programs such as this one, as opportunities for jail inmates to give back to the community and to build their work skills. Said McReynolds, “Because of what these inmates are doing, our county is going to look better, and the inmates are going to feel better about themselves.”

Posted @ 1:45 p.m.

Racine County Executive William L. McReynolds

Racine, WI  – Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds today addressed the concerns of numerous county residents about mowing of medians and shoulders of the state and U.S. highways in the county. He said: “We’re no happier about tall grass and weeds than the people who live in our communities. But the state contracts with the county to maintain those highways, and it has strictly limited the mowing work we may do under our contract.”

McReynolds explained that guidance from the state specifically limits the county’s mowing efforts along state trunk highways (e.g., STH 11, 20, 31, and 38) and along U.S. highways (e.g., USH 45) to a single cut along the shoulder during the entire season. He acknowledged that, especially with the cool spring we’ve had, one cut a year is not enough. But he pointed out that, if the county does any additional cutting, the cost will be borne by county property taxpayers— not by the state, which is responsible for the maintenance and appearance of those highways.

McReynolds added: “I want to assure our residents that county trunk highways, which are our direct responsibility, will be mown more frequently. We are very displeased with the state highway situation, but in these difficult economic times, we cannot afford to do work for the state when it won’t pay us for that work.”

He suggested that county residents communicate their concerns about mowing along the highways to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (262-521-5348) or Racine County’s state legislators:

Senator John Lehman Sen.Lehman@legis.wisconsin.gov (608) 266-1832
Senator Robert Wirch Sen.wirch@legis.wisconsin.gov (608) 267-8979
Senator Mary Lazich Sen.lazich@legis.wisconsin.gov (608) 266-5400
Representative Robert Turner Rep.turner@legis.wisconsin.gov (608) 266-0731
Representative Cory Mason Rep.Mason@legis.wisconsin.gov (608) 266-0634
Representative Robin Vos Rep.vos@legis.wisconsin.gov (608) 266-9171
Representative Samantha Kerkman Rep.kerkman@legis.wisconsin.gov (608) 266-2530
Representative Scott Gunderson Rep.gunderson@legis.wisconsin.gov (608) 266-3363

Posted @ 11:55 a.m.

The village proposes to construct approximately 2100 feet of 10-inch diameter sanitary sewer in Seventh Street from Foxmead Drive to State Highway 36. The project will result in the abandonment of the sewage pumping station at the intersection of Foxmead Drive and Seventh Street. The pumping station is in poor condition and in need of replacement.

The capital cost of the project is estimated to be approximately $770,000. The village anticipates financing the project with a Clean Water Fund low-interest loan. The project will increase user charges for a typical residential customer by approximately $39 per year.

Although the proposed project is not expected to involve significant environmental impacts, the public is invited to comment. Provide comments by Wednesday, June 10, 2009, to Gerry Novotny, Bureau of Watershed Management, Department of Natural Resources, Box 7921, Madison, Wisconsin 53707, 608-267-7625.

Posted @ 12:00 p.m

Attorney General J.B.Van Hollen

Sturtevant, WI – Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen met today with law enforcement leaders, elected officials, community leaders, judges, and public safety officials from throughout Racine County at a law enforcement roundtable hosted by State Representative Samantha Kerkman.

Topics discussed at the roundtable included Internet Crimes Against Children, racial profiling data collection, increasing the beer tax, public safety cuts in the state budget, GPS tracking of sex offenders, and an update on the State Crime Lab.

“I would like to extend a thank you to Representative Kerkman for organizing this successful roundtable. Each county has public safety issues that specifically affect them. While many of these issues affect the entire state, it is important for me to understand how the Department of Justice can assist Racine County,” Van Hollen said. “Sharing information between the Department of Justice, the State Legislature, and local agencies helps law enforcement at every level.”

“I would like to thank the law enforcement officials of Racine County for taking time out of their busy schedules to meet with Attorney General Van Hollen,” said Representative Samantha Kerkman. “As government officials from the local level to the federal level work together to improve public safety within our communities, it is imperative that we have feedback from those who deal with this issue on a daily basis. Their ideas and suggestions will no doubt help in either restructuring or passing new laws to make our communities safer. We sincerely appreciate their service.”

“I thank Rep. Kerkman for attending and helping to put together this roundtable,” said Van Hollen. “These discussions help us in state government do a better job.”

Posted @ 11:41 p.m.

The focus of the agreement was to designate alternative traffic routes to ease a considerable influx of traffic into the Springbrook Landing subdivision, which has caused local road congestion and concern for some subdivision residents.

Burlington city and town representatives and representatives from the town of Lyons, as well as other stakeholders, reached the agreement Friday after informal discussions.

The city has agreed to re-route traffic on a newly paved street to relieve the amount of traffic traveling through the residential subdivision. The town of Burlington has agreed to identify a group of residents who would be the only ones allowed to use Yahnke Road. Other travelers will be directed to use the WisDOT signed detour that identifies WIS 50 as the detour or use other town roads to get to WIS 83 and thereby avoid the construction area.

Those residents who live north of Fish Hatchery Road on McHenry (County P) or on Yahnke Road, should stop at the WisDOT field office during normal working hours with a piece of mail or ID to proving residency within the authorized user zone. Those persons will be issued a placard to place in their windshield to show they live within the zone.

The WisDOT field office is located on west side of Yahnke Road, south of the new bypass. The contractor has been working 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays.

Burlington city and town police will be strictly enforcing this closure. Motorists caught using the subdivision connection without a placard will be issued a ticket for $83.80 for the first offense and $121.60 for the second and subsequent offenses, starting Friday.

Thomas busses and emergency vehicles are authorized to use the connection without picking up a placard to display in their window.

For those living at the edge of authorized zone, at the intersection of County P and Fish Hatchery Road, it is roughly an additional four and a half miles to the WIS 83 and Hidden Creek intersection and will add about seven minutes to your trip into Burlington.

WisDOT asks for your patience until County P is reopened, projected for mid-October, weather permitting.

WisDOT project manager Traci Gengler said the agreement  “is a great example of communities working together and compromising for a common goal.”

Posted @ 11:00 a.m.

Cheryl O'Brien Wisconsin's 62nd Alice in Dairyland

Burlington, WI – Cheryl O’Brien, Eastman, was selected as Wisconsin’s 62nd Alice in Dairyland, following three intense days of interviews and public appearances in Racine County. She was one of six final candidates for the public relations job that carries six decades of Wisconsin agricultural tradition.

“My goal as Alice in Dairyland is to use my knowledge of the news industry to better report Wisconsin agriculture news and promote agriculture in all areas of the state,” O’Brien said. “During my contract year, I would like to spend more time in the metro areas of the state, demonstrating how important agriculture is to every resident, and how if we all buy local, Wisconsin products, we can continue the strength and success of the state’s $51.5 billion agriculture industry for years to come.”

O’Brien grew up showing dairy animals and working on her family’s Eastman dairy farm. O’Brien served as an officer with the Crawford County Junior Holstein Association, the Eastman Cloverleaf 4-H Club, and the Wisconsin 4-H Youth Leader Council. She represented her county as Dairy Princess, educating students about the importance of the dairy industry, and has volunteered her time at the Wisconsin State Fair Moo Booth and at a local food cooperative. O’Brien graduated with honors from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in May 2008 with degrees in journalism and mass communications. She gained experience in journalism by participating in Panthervision, the Broadcast Club at UW-Milwaukee, and Student Commitment 2008. O’Brien works for WISN-TV/DT in Milwaukee as an assignment editor. She was also a finalist for the 61st Alice in Dairyland position.

As part of the selection process she was evaluated on her public speaking, ability to answer impromptu questions, written communication skills, media interviewing, and her commitment to and involvement in agriculture.

O’Brien assumes her duties June 1. During her contract year, she will receive a salary of $40,000, professional travel expenses and a mink garment from the Kettle Moraine Mink Breeders Association. She will use a 14-karat gold and platinum brooch and a tiara with diamonds, citrines and amethysts, courtesy of the Wisconsin Jewelers Association.

“The 62nd Alice in Dairyland has an exciting opportunity and enormous responsibility as Wisconsin’s agriculture ambassador. I am confident she will continue to promote Wisconsin products at school visits, media interviews, and community events to encourage people to buy locally to support local businesses, communities, and economies in our state,” said Ashley Huibregtse, 61st Alice in Dairyland.

Other finalists for the position were Peggy Dierickx, De Pere; Krista Kasten, Richfield; Jodi Kauth, Loyal; Rebecca Paris, Belleville; and Melanie Welles, Ixonia.

The 63rd Alice in Dairyland will be selected next year in Rock County, May 20-22.

To schedule Alice in Dairyland for an event or speaking engagement, contact Nicole Breunig at 608-224-5080 or email at DATCPAlice@wisconsin.gov. Find more information about Alice in Dairyland and the Alice program here.

Alice in Dairyland is a full-time public relations professional employed by the DATCP Division of Agricultural Development for a one-year term. Each year, Alice travels more than 40,000 miles throughout the state and nation, promoting Wisconsin products to audiences of all ages and types. She educates the media, youth and civic groups about the many facets of the state’s agricultural industry.

Posted @ 12:43 p.m.