thewheelerreport.com
Online supplement to The Wheeler Report
Published by: Wheeler Reports, Inc. - 111 W. Wilson St. #401 - Madison, WI 53703


December 2007

Friday, December 28, 2007
 
Legislators/Legislative Issues.
Sen. Grothman, Rep. Gottlieb.  Offer proposal to protect taxpayers from excessive costs during police and firefighter discipline process.

Tomah Journal.  Editorial:  Will cigarette tax raise anticipated revenue?
Racine Journal Times. Smokers shell out big bucks for butts.
Appleton Post Crescent. Smokers pay the price.
Lake County News-Sun (Illinois).  Wisconsin's buck-a-pack (cigarette) tax hike wafts sweet-sour for (Illinois) cigarette vendors.

Education.
DPI. Supt. Burmaster commends schools in the news.
La Crosse Tribune.  Editorial:  Loss of state support for local colleges will impact everyone.

State Agencies.
Citizens Allied for Sane Highways.  Letter to WisDOT Secretary Busalacchi asking for extension of comment period on I-94 EIS. 
Milwaukee Alderman Bauman.  Asks Federal Highway Administration to extend I-94 public comment period.

Dept of Veterans Affairs. Secretary praises US Rep. Baldwin, veterans' bill.
Office of Justice Assistance.  Opportunity to review Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) application.
Office of Justice Assistance.  Commission on reducing racial disparities to hold January 9 and 18 meetings to complete report.
DWD.  Meeting notices for 12/31-1/4.
Wisconsin State Journal. Top state criminal investigator resigns.
The Capital Times.  Opinion:  Deal with vote vendor Accenture a big waste.

Energy/Environment.
DNR/PSC.  Task Force on Global Warming work groups share policy recommendations January 4th.
Eau Claire Leader Telegram.  Spitting into the wind.
Wisconsin Ag Connection.  Leavenworth:  Wisconsin farmers are good stewards of the land.
The Capital Times.  Great Lakes in better shape than 15 years ago.
BusinessNorth.  Wisconsin prepares to pass law to ban taking Great Lakes water.

Healthcare.
Medical College of Wisconsin.  Receives NIH grant to study upper gut and airway interaction.
La Crosse Tribune. La Crosse hospitals outline priorities for 2008.

Statewide.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Late AMT patch to put some taxpayers on hold.
Chicago Sun Times.  Depp charge for (Wisconsin) economy. 

Local Officials/Issues.
Dane County Executive Falk.  New year to bring debut of new traffic safety team in Dane County. 
Milwaukee County Executive Walker.  Announces family-friendly New Year's events.
Racine Journal Times. Communities searching for poll workers.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. City hand-shoveling crews proposed.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Tax bill messages probed.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Hoping for best, training for worst.
Shepherd Express.  Tribes continue to battle over Kenosha casino.
RiverTowns.net.  St. Croix County votes to add lawyer to help with childl support cases.
Door County Advocate.  Commission approves revised DCVB budget.
Ashland Daily Press.  Budget bill contains items for northland.

Noted.
Racine Journal Times. Janesville editorial writer is this year's Liars Club winner.
Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter. Two Rivers author in semifinals of crime-writing contest.
Janesville Gazette.  Hendricks remembered for his generosity. 

Politics/Elections.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Next election for justice spot likely to be costly, and expensive.
Fond du Lac Reporter. Variety of races, issues on Dodge County ballot.
Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune. Wood County Board reduction crowds election.

Congress.
Sen. Feingold.  Looks ahead, across the aisle in the new year.
Stevens Point Journal. Obey secures money for Highway 10, Cap Services.
 

Thursday, December 27, 2007
 
Legislators/Legislative Issues.
Appleton Post Crescent. State soon may track sex offender's e-mail addresses.
Appleton Post Crescent. Rep. Steve Wieckert column: Are there answers to the property tax?
Portage Daily Register.  School officials open to early start.
Superior Daily Telegram.  State must prune budgets:  Doyle hopes to avoid layoffs.

Sheboygan Press. Editorial: Vetoes strengthen cable TV bill.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  Competition for cable.
Wisconsin State Journal.  Editorial:  Put the focus on job growth.
Beloit Daily News.  Editorial:  Wisconsin should take this stand (partial birth abortion).
The Capital Times.  Op Ed:  Marty Beil:  Inmates use flawed "Doe" law as weapon against guards.

Statewide.
Lt. Governor.  Filmgoers could soon see a lot of Wisconsin at the cinema. 
Business Journal of Greater Milwaukee.  Wisconsin's population growth slows.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. State has deer in its headlights.

State Agencies.
DWD.  November 2007 local unemployment rates.
 DATCP.  Secretary Nilsestuen announces $1 million in 2008 grazing grants. 
Green Bay Press Gazette. Justice Department disciplined agents, crime lab workers.
Rivertowns.net. Former Pierce County official ready to pioneer new state department.
Eau Claire Leader Telegram.  Veterans arriving at shelter.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Cost of Medicaid computer system doubles.

Health.
Marshfield Clinic.  Offers retinal screenings in Merrill.
Marshfield Clinic.  Offers retinal screenings in Ladysmith.
Wisconsin State Journal. BadgerCare Plus to ensure health care coverage for all children.

Education.
Janesville Gazette.  Editorial:  District's action after Bible speech raises concerns.

Business.
Wisconsin Independent Businesses.  2007 "OK" year for most small Wisconsin businesses. 
Better Environmental News.  2007 a banner year for biofuels in state and nation.
The Capital Times.  Madison firm's suit versus Google gains new life.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Area manufacturing grew in November.
PRNewswire.  Midwest Airlines extends Codeshare agreement with Northwest to include nonstop routes from Indianapolis to cities in the west and Florida.

Local Officials/Issues.
Milwaukee County Executive Walker.  Free days at the zoo.
Milwaukee Alderman Bauman.  Calls for more effective snow removal for pedestrians, disabled and transit users.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Milwaukee Public Schools budget forecast is grim.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Waukesha County Board ballot balloons.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Land trust makes offer on golf course in Ozaukee County.
Marshfield News Herald.  (Marathon) County studies drug court concept.

Noted.
Wisconsin State Journal. Helium shortage to affect U. S. Bank Eve.
Baraboo News Republic.  Dillinger flick could bring film crew to Baraboo. 

Congress/National Issues.
Sen. Feingold.  Statement on the assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. 
Rep. Baldwin.  Bill to aid wounded veterans becomes law.
Eau Claire Leader Telegram.  Editorial:  Shouldn't $53 trillion garner our attention?
 

Wednesday, December 26, 2007
 
Legislators/Legislative Issues.
Supreme Court. 2002 Order in redistricting. 2007 report draft.
Speaker Huebsch. Redistricting comments before Supreme Court.

Sen. Kedzie.  Spreading holiday cheer - safely.
Sen. Lehman.  Co-sponsors bill that would end prohibition-era law.

Appleton Post Crescent. Bill would allow callers to report state tax waste.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Hintz sponsors bill to change way candidates run for Supreme Court.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Bill would limit seizing of guns.
Wisconsin Radio Network.  Scrap yard dealers push for cooperation. 

State Agencies.
State Elections Board.  Reaches agreement with vendor over state voter registration system.  Wisconsin State Journal story. 
Dept. of Revenue.  Threshold lowered for delinquent accounts on the Internet. 

Statewide.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. State offices must prune budgets.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. State patient fund files claim against hospital.
Appleton Post Crescent. States often don't go after taxes owned on Internet cigarette sales.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Waiver could propel short-sea shipping from Port of Green Bay.
La Crosse Tribune. Federal cuts hit local law enforcement.
La Crosse Tribune. Shortage of court reporters looming.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Inmate officer investigations snarl system.
Wisconsin Radio Network.  State preparing for major ag census. 
RiverTowns.net.  Former Pierce County official ready to pioneer new state department. 
Wisconsin Ag Connection.  Wisconsin Association of Fairs to meet in Green Bay

Education.
Rivertowns.net. Going public: Students' requests for records yields mixed results.
La Crosse Tribune. Area college students encourages to become politically engaged.
Wisconsin State Journal. Call the nurse "doctor."
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. UW-Milwaukee Upward Bound director fights change.
Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune.  Homeless expected to rise.

Energy/Environment.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Utility: More power needed for Wisconsin.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Electric line is just start of several.
Janesville Gazette.  Is vertical tower next breakthrough in wind power?

The Nature Conservancy.  Receives $12.5 million gift to advance conservation in southeastern Wisconsin.

Business.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  The Northwest factor. 
Stevens Point Journal.  Editorial:  Tom Still, Wisconsin Technology Council: Regions responsible for Wisconsin's success.
Business Journal of Greater Milwaukee.  Poll:  Hiring will be steady in 2008.
Wisconsin Bankers Association. Make your New Year's resolution a financial one.

Health.
Marshfield Clinic.  Eau Claire Center welcomes psychiatrist. 
Marshfield Clinic.  Pediatrician Joins Eau Claire Center.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  A cancer preventative. 
Hudson Star Observer.  Low income families face challenges in western Wisconsin. 

Local Officials/Issues.
Milwaukee Rising.  DeBruin vows better flags care.
Citizens Allied for Sane Highways.  WisDOT plan hurts Milwaukee businesses. 
Wausau Daily Herald. Marathon County studies drug court concept.
Wausau Daily Herald. New York town lets seniors work off property taxes for $7 an hour.
Wisconsin State Journal. La Crosse County wants women out of jail.
Janesville Gazette.  Editorial:  Hendricks leaves us all a lasting legacy.
Beloit Daily News.  Hendricks memorial Thursday. 

Politics.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  History retold (Sen. McCarthy).
The Capital Times.  Editorial:  Don't tell us to like Joe McCarthy.

Congress.
Rep. Ryan. Kenosha Constituent Services Center moves to new location.
Sens. Jauch, Kreitlow.  Applaud Obey for securing $2.5 million for Barron/Chippewa County rail program. 
Sen. Feingold.  Landmark lobbying and ethics reform, extension of SeniorCare top 2007 accomplishments.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Editorial: At 15 years, Feingold still listening.
 

Friday, December 21, 2007
 
Legislators/Legislative Issues.
Cable Competition Bill
Governor.  Signs competition bill (partial veto).  Veto message. 
Text of vetoed bill.

 Wisconsin State Journal story.   
Reaction
 Sen. Miller.   Citizen Action of Wisconsin.   AT&T.   TV4US. Sen. Robson.
League of Wisconsin Municipalities. Sen. Vinehout. TDS Telecom.
Rep. Hebl. Milwaukee Common Council President Hines.

Cable Arbitration Bill.
Appleton Post Crescent. Packers back NFL cable bill.

Other.
Speaker Huebsch. Redistricting comments before Supreme Court.
Rep. Cullen.  Post information on charitable donations.
Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin.  Legislators urged to support the Women's Health and Safety Act.
Wisconsin State Journal. State ban on 'partial-birth' abortion sought.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  When trust is gone,
Beloit Daily News.  Editorial:  Avoiding the itch to boss us around (legislature).

State Agencies/Officials.
Governor.  Announces $1.1 million initiative to continue successful Transportation to Jobs program.
DHFS. Announces federal renewal of Family Planning Waiver.
WisDOT.  Again extends deadline for filing state flood damage aid claims.
DNR.  CWD eradication zones: Earn-a-buck tagging doesn't apply starting January 7.
DNR,  CWD eradication zones:  DNR to conduct aerial deer herd survey.
Citizens Allied for Sane Highways.  Freeway expansion area likely to flunk pollution test.

Education..
Attorney General Van Hollen.  Formal opinion:  Open enrollment school district transfers may not be denied because of applicant's race.  DPI letter requesting opinion.  Van Hollen's opinion.
Appleton Post Crescent. Appleton seen as unaffected by open enrollment ruling.
Wisconsin State Journal. Attorney General says race can't stop student transfers.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Pupil transfer rights clarified.

UW Madison.  Five finalists named for director of Administrative Legal Services.
Oshkosh Northwestern.  Oshkosh mom's family bestows major scholarship program to UWO students.

Health.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Clark County declares whooping cough outbreak.
Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter.  Editorial:  New hope for those who want to quit their tobacco habit. 

Energy/Environment.
Council of Great Lakes Governors.  Ohio introduces Great Lakes Water Compact Bill.  The Bill. 
Integrys Energy Services.  Turning trash into electricity. 
Wisconsin State Journal.  Gas price, travelers increase over 2006. 

Utilities/Business.
Janesville Gazette.  Billionaire Hendricks dies after fall (ABC Supply).
Legislators.  Statements on the passing of Ken Hendricks.

Alliant Energy.  State regulators allow new plant permitting process to move forward.
Clean Wisconsin. Alliant's proposed coal plant: a bad deal for Wisconsin.
Wisconsin State Journal.  Alliant is expecting higher 2008 earnings.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Fate of Alliant plant nears.
PSC. Reduces rate request for We Energies customers.
Citizens Utility Board. PSC decisions reduce size of electric rate increase sought by We Energies.
Foley & Lardner. Partner named to BTI client service all-star team.
La Crosse Tribune. PSC trying to conserve 715 and 920 numbers.
Janesville Gazette.  Editorial:  Announcement at GM dampens Christmas spirits.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  State ranks 43rd in job growth.
Beloit Daily News.  Editorial:  Should Wisconsin target big firms? 

Courts.
Wisconsin State Journal. Amish man loses building code case.

Year Enders.
Sen. Lazich.  Column:  2007 Legislative Recap.
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation.  Farm Bureau Picks 2007-2008.
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation.  Changes to estate tax in 2008. 
Mothers Against Drunk Driving.  Remembers drunk driving victims/survivors and their families - asks the community to do the same.

Local Officials/Issues.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Milwaukee County Board backs tighter smoking curbs.
Milw. County Supv. West. County board approves naming of Kosciuszko park pavilion.
Milw. County Board. Results of Thursday meeting.
Milwaukee County Executive Walker.  Milwaukee County closes on sale of Park East lands.
Dane County Supv. Hulsey, Downing. Introduce Health Care for All initiative.
Racine County Executive McReynolds.  Racine County to administer prisoner reentry initiative grant for Wisconsin Dept. of Corrections.
Door County Advocate. County tables wind energy ordinance.
Tomah Journal.  (Ed) Thompson running for mayor.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Harambee gets an infusion of money. (Thrivent donation)
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. State cleanup site gets funds.
Lakeland Times.  Vilas County breaches state and federal regulations by not hiring Commission on Aging director.

Elections.
UW Madison.  Wisconsin advertising project to analyze 2008 political ads.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Committee calls on Supreme Court candidate to take back remarks.
WI State Council of Carpenters. Endorse Justice Butler for re-election.

Congress/National Issues.
Rep. Ryan.  Announces upcoming listening sessions.
Wisconsin State Journal.  Editorial:  State over on farm bill.
 

Thursday, December 20, 2007
 
Legislators/Legislative Issues.
Rep. Strachota.  GAAP deficit continues to grow - puts state on shaky ground. 
Sen. Taylor.  Begins circulation of Sex Offender e-Disclosure Act.
Sen. Lasee. Statement on Sen. Hansen's "Corporate Tax Accountability Act." Wisconsin State Journal story.
Sen. Miller, Rep. Berceau.  to introduce bill to repeal unconstitutional criminal abortion statute.

Football 24.7 - Wisconsin.  Green Bay Packers and NFL leaders take fight for their fans to state Capitol. 
Big Ten Network. Three top Wisconsin county executives call on cable companies to put the Big Ten Network on basic cable.
Wisconsin State Journal.  Editorial:  "FAN" bill is out of bounds.
The Capital Times.  Editorial:  Keep out of sports cable fray. 

Sheboygan Press. Editorial: Voters must end 'Frankenstein Veto.'
Eau Claire Leader Telegram.  Editorial:  Campaign cash ties hands of high court justices.
Wisconsin Radio Network.  A plea deal for Jensen?
The Capital Times.  Editorial;  Dave Zweifel:  Budget bill would make dawdlers feel the pain. 
Wisconsin State Journal.  Wisconsin lawmakers launch push for partial-birth abortion ban. 

Statewide.
UW Survey Center.  Badger Poll:  Updated trends in public opinion among Wisconsinites. 
Wisconsin Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association.  Family planning program to continue. 
Wisconsin State Journal. Disaster spending draws complaints.

State Agencies/Officials.
DOA.  Wisconsin Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (247 pages).
DOJ. Chetek equipment supplier pleads guilty to embezzling Superior city fire department funds.
Dept. of Revenue.   **REVISED** Property tax payment reminder. 
WisDOT.  Frozen road declaration goes into effect December 24.
WisDOT.  New Freedom Program offers grants for Milwaukee area transportation alternatives.
WisDOT.  New Freedom Program offers grants for Madison area transportation alternatives.
State Treasurer Sass.  Names Stephanie Wilson as executive assistant.
State Treasurer Sass.  Op Ed;  Eligibility deadline for EdVest. 
DWD.  November unemployment rates.  Milwaukee Journal Sentinel story. 
DWD.  Governor Doyle announces workers dislocated from WeldSource Alliance in Oshkosh to receive assistance.
Office of Justice Assistance.  National criminal justice leaders call for federal omnibus appropriation bill a threat to public safety. 
DNR.  Outdoor Report for December 20th.
Public Service Commission.  Requires telecommunications providers in 715 and 920 area codes to further conserve phone numbers.
Dept. of Veterans Affairs.  Board seeking nominations for Veteran Lifetime Achievement Award.
La Crosse Tribune. Doyle gives a "Grow Wisconsin" preview.

Business.
Wisconsin Bankers Association.  Don't get scammed for the holidays - a consumer alert. 
Wisconsin Credit Union League.  Study shows credit unions are still doing a great job of serving their members, communities.
Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin.  Commodity marketing course ends the roller coaster of risk management.  Course outline. 
PRNewswire. Alliant Energy announces 2008 financial guidance and approval of increase in the expected annual common stock dividend.
Wisconsin State Journal. GM to cut production at Janesville plant.
Wausau Daily Herald. Paper-consumption decline leads to Wausau Paper plant closures.

Education.
Attorney General Van Hollen.  Formal opinion:  Open enrollment school district transfers may not be denied because of applicant's race.  DPI letter requesting opinion.  Van Hollen's response. 
La Crosse Tribune. Area schools rate among U.S. best. Schoolmatters.com list.
Milwaukee Public Schools.  Dozens of defibrillators donated by charitable group. 
Rep. Moore/Sen. Kohl.  $1 million for Milwaukee after school programs included in FY08 federal budget.
UW Stout.  Building Commission approves additional funding for UW Stout science wing.

Environment/Energy.
The Capital Times.  PSC accepts Alliant coal plant application. 
Rep. Suder, Sen. Jauch.  School wind energy initiative unanimously passes committee. 
US EPA.  WR Grace to pay toward cleanup of  (32) hazardous waste sites (one in Wisconsin).
C5-6 Technologies.  Lauds Congress, president for biofuel expansion.

Health Care.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Health plan for all takers outlined. American Health Insurance Plans details.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  Higher (health care) costs ahead.
Tomah Journal.  Tomah Hospital to expand with urgent care clinic in Warrens. 
Marshfield Clinic.  Unveils expansion plans in Elk Mound.
Gulfport Mississippi Sun Herald.  Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield in Wisconsin announces multi-year agreements with two of state's largest health care providers,

Local Officials/Issues.
Dane County Executive Falk.  2008 nomination form for Dane County Martin Luther King, Jr. recognition award.
Dane County Parks.  Closing snowmobile trails. 
City of Milwaukee.  Thin ice warning. 
Rock County Human Services Dept.  Rock County's progress with minority youth in Justice System gets national attention. 
La Crosse Tribune. Gow: UW-La Crosse Stadium details needed.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Counties form ad hoc committee to study joint jail.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Bus to Waukesha County jobs unlikely to be spared.

Congress.
Rep. Ryan. Year end votes.
Rep. Kagen.  Delivers for northeast Wisconsin. 
Rep. Moore.  Secures over $230,000 for critical programs in 4th CD.
Rep. Moore.  Secures over $600 K in Community Safety funds.
Appleton Post Crescent. Federal spending bill includes state projects.
Ashland Daily Press.  Rural benefits in farm bill. 

Elections.
Lisa Neubauer. Enjoys broad, bi-partisan support. List.
Walker for Milwaukee County Executive.  Statement on Lena Taylor fundraiser.
Judicial Campaign Watch.  Letter to Judge Gableman regarding campaign rhetoric in the Supreme Court race.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Milwaukee attorney race may redefine job.
 

Wednesday, December 19, 2007
 
Legislators/Legislative Issues.
Corporate Taxes
Sen. Hansen.  Introduces Corporate Tax Accountability Act.  Milwaukee Journal Sentinel story. 
Institute for Wisconsin's Future.  Report:  Wisconsin's Revenue Gap - An analysis of Corporate Tax Avoidance.  Wisconsin State Journal story. 
Reaction
 Sen. Fitzgerald.  Proposal to raise taxes hurts consumers.
 Sen. Hansen.  Response to Sen. Fitzgerald. 
Rep. Vos.  Hansen tax disclosure bill to hurt businesses and jobs and Wisconsin.
 Sen. Jauch.  Calls for corporate tax transparency. 
Rep. Strachota.  Hansen tax disclosure legislation solves nothing but will cost jobs.
 Wisconsin Alliance of Cities.  Executive Director Ed Huck on Corporate Accountability Act. 

Rep. Lasee. Weekly Notes (Merry Christmas).
Rep. Black.  Survey shows strong support for energy efficient transportation (constituent survey). 
Sen. Miller.  Senate Natural Resources Committee advances four hunting bills and a brownfields bill. 
Sen. Breske.  Get tough on those who hire illegal immigrants.
Rep. Mason.  Ready to crack down on toxic toys. 

Football 24.7-Wisconsin.  Committee hearing on FAN legislation set for tomorrow. 

Wisconsin State Journal. Doyle worried that Legislature will do little in 2008.
Appleton Post Crescent. New law may help in Neenah library theft.
Wausau Daily Herald. Editorial: Tell Decker to step up on OWI laws.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Bill sets last wishes into tombstone.
Wisconsin Radio Network.  Scrap metal thefts could lead to new restrictions.
RiverTowns.net.  Poll says Wisconsinites going negative.
Marshfield News Herald.  State Senate considers bill to combat open burning. 

Agencies/Officials.
Governor.  Announces $1 million La Crosse grasslands Stewardship purchase. 
Governor.  Announces Wisconsin 2007 milk production sets 17- year record.
DOJ.  Former Superior fire chief pleads guilty to embezzling city funds and misconduct in public office.
Commissioner of Insurance.  Advises caution this holiday season.
DWD.  Governor Doyle announces steps administration, DWD will take to help Domtar workers.

Year's End.
Wisconsin Historical Society.  Names its Top 10 Wisconsin history-making news stories of 2007.

Statewide.
Appleton Post Crescent. Survey looks at state farmers.
WKBT, La Crosse.  Internet cigarette buyers must pay Wisconsin taxes.

Education.
DPI.  Superintendent Burmaster praises fund for Wisconsin scholars.
DPI.  Library systems to share $16.1 million in state aid.
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship USA.  College is a spiritual quest for many students,
Wisconsin State Journal.  Editorial:  Big thanks for giant gift.

Health.
Wisconsin Association of Health Underwriters.  The WAHU Foundation announces 2007 charitable donations.
Eau Claire Leader Telegram.  Temporary clinic a relief for north woods veterans.

Energy/Environment.
Public Service Commission.  Agenda for December 20th meeting.
Wisconsin Environment.  President signs landmark oil savings legislation. Renewable energy policies are critical next step.
Midwest Environmental Advocates/Friends of Milwaukee's Rivers.  Conservation group takes action to stop illegal discharge of toxic and cancer-causing chemicals. 
Wisconsin Bio Industry Alliance.  Didion trains workers for new plant.
Ashland Daily Press.  Local Trout Unlimited group wants more water to be kept in Superior.

Courts.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Judge awards $16 million in legal fees in snuff case.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Judge won't invalidate annexation.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Attorney General against retrial (Scott Jensen).
The Capital Times.  Editorial:  Translating "fairness."

Local Officials/Issues.
Milwaukee County Board. Agenda for Thursday meeting.
La Crosse Tribune. Trempealeau County restricts wind energy.
Appleton Post Crescent. Developer says rules would stop Calumet wind turbines.
Racine Journal Times. Racine Council approves measure to require keg tracking.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Council warned on comments; statements could violate open meetings laws.

Supreme Court Election.
Wisconsin Realtors Association.  Endorses Butler for Supreme Court.
WI Judicial Campaign Integrity Com. Statement on One Wisconsin Now complaint.
One Wisconsin Now. Response to WI Judicial Campaign Integrity Committee statement.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Panel says Gableman mailing doesn't need review.
Janesville Gazette.  Editorial:  New committee should cleanse high court race.

Politics/Elections.
Lt. Governor Lawton.  Joins Hillary Clinton for presidential candidate's Midwest Holiday Gala (fundraiser).

Business.
Axley Brynelson.  Announces two attorneys voted to firm partnership. 
Wisconsin Fair Trade Coalition.  New report documents cause of toy safety crisis. 
New North.  Goodwill Industries wins New North diversity award.
Milwaukee Business Journal.  Report details hunting, fishing impact in state
Beloit Daily News.  Editorial:  Who controls the economy?  Mom.
PRNewswire.  Ladish names Vroman president Ladish Forging

Congress.
Rep. Sensenbrenner.  Information on undeliverable IRS tax refund checks.
Rep. Kagen.  Congress directs military to stop reneging on troop bonuses.
Rep. Kagen.  Congress provides tax relief to middle class. 
Sen. Feingold.  Statement on continuing efforts to pass the Feingold-Reid legislation to end the war in Iraq. 
Rep. Kind.  We cannot fix the AMT (alternative minimum tax) on the backs of our kids and grandkids.

The Capital Times.  Editorial:  Feingold, Kohl back farmers.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Congress' energy bill phasing out traditional light bulbs.
Wausau Daily Herald. Energy bill will increase fuel MPG mandate.
 

Tuesday, December 18, 2007
 
Legislators/Legislative Issues.
Rep. Kessler.  Make Wisconsin's lightbulbs "green."

Eau Claire Leader Telegram.  University faculty, staff push for collective bargaining (SB-353) 
AFT Wisconsin.  Overwhelming support for collective bargaining rights bill in Eau Claire.

Rep. Zipperer.  Public hearing held on Wisconsin Internet Tax Freedom Act. 
Wisconsin State Telecommunications Association.  Newsletter (Taxing Internet access is shortsighted.)

The Capital Times.  Editorial:  Don't kill "John Doe."

Statewide.
WISTAX.  Wisconsin estate tax to end January 1st. 
Wisconsin Alliance of Cities.  Op-Ed:  Property tax time in Wisconsin.  Milfred Wisconsin State Journal column. 
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Municipalities' group to tackle state problems.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Officials say new law increases child safety awareness.

State Officials/Agencies.
Governor. Signs two bills into law.
School Supt. Burmaster. Applauds Governor and legislators for quick action on AP bill.
Lt. Governor Lawton.  Calls on legislature to move mental health parity forward.
State Treasurer Sass.  Completes county tour in Kenosha. 

Legislative Audit Bureau.  Wisconsin Educational Communications Board -TV and Radio Networks. 
National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs. WI Veterans Affairs Secretary Scocos elected president.
Board on Aging and Long-Term Care.  A new way of life - culture change in Wisconsin's nursing homes.
Wisconsin Emergency Management.  Review of 2007 Wisconsin weather extremes and emergencies. 
DNR.  Weekly News Report (DNR turns 40 in 2008, first integrated resource management agency in nation).
DOJ.  **CORRECTED** Former Marquette County deputy sheriff charged with stealing drugs from evidence room.

UW/Education.
Wisconsin State Journal. $175 million gift for college grants.
Wisconsin Technical College System.  Statements on the new fund for Wisconsin scholars.
UW System.  Statement from system president on fund for Wisconsin scholars. 
UW Madison.  Statement from UW Madison officials on the Morgridge scholarship gift. 
UW Madison.  Gifts establish "best ever" UW Madison music scholarships.

Wausau Daily Herald. School district seeks more time to reduce class sizes.
The Capital Times.  Security given boost in area schools.
Forbes Magazine.  Where to educate your children (Madison ranks 2nd in the national, Washington DC first).
GM Today.  Elmbrook cuts back referendum plans to $61 million. 
PRNewswire.  EPA names Minnesota and Wisconsin school districts national Energy Star leaders.

Organizations.
WI Counties Association. E-Newsletter for this week.
Citizens for Safe Water Around Badger.  New munitions compounds detected at Badger. 
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation.  Ag Day at the Capitol, Jan. 30th.
Wisconsin Bio Industry Alliance.  Wisconsin bio fuel producers contributing to reduction in greenhouse gases.
RENEW Wisconsin/Clean Wisconsin.  Trempealeau County sharply limits wind energy.

Business.
Wisconsin State Journal.  A bright spot for local jobs.
Milwaukee Business Journal.  Wausau Paper to close Wisconsin facility. 
DWD.  Workers dislocated from Tecumseh Power to receive assistance. 
New North, Inc.  Two New North companies take top honors at the Elevator Pitch Olympics. 
American Council of Engineering Companies of Wisconsin.  4 cornerstones of risk management. 
Dept. of Commerce.  Toman Tool receives Commerce training funds.

PRNewswire.  'Holidays' beats 'Christmas' in actual consumer usage.
Janesville Gazette.  GM will slow production in Janesville.

Courts.
Wisconsin Court System.  Receives grant for effective justice strategies.

Local Officials/Issues.
Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District.  Preston Cole elected commission chair.
Racine Journal Times. Racine council to consider beer keg registration measure.
Appleton Post Crescent. Town of Menasha passes liquor license ordinance.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Green Bay mayor declares moratorium on holiday displays.

Congress/National Issues.
Sen. Feingold.  In opposition to the FISA bill.
Sen. Feingold.  To push for redeployment from Iraq as part of spending bill. 
Rep. Kagen.  Little Chute moves to head of the line for $6.5 million bridge project. 
Rep. Sensenbrenner.  Opposes omnibus appropriations bill. 
Rep. Sensenbrenner.  Votes "no" on "No Energy" bill.
Rep. Kind.  Votes to send landmark energy bill to president's desk.
 

Monday, December 17, 2007
 
Legislators/Legislative Issues.
Reps. Nelson, Mason.  Letter to Rep. Davis, chair of the Assembly Education Committee, requesting hearing on SB-299, school tax levy credit.
Sen. Kreitlow.  Legislative year in review and look ahead.
Sen. Jauch, Rep. Mason.  Lawmakers call for protection of Great Lakes water. 
Sen. Risser.  Applauds New Jersey action to abolish death penalty.

Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters. Notices of the week.
Wisconsin State Journal. Editorial: Governor, remember what you said. (Frankenstein veto).
Appleton Post Crescent. Madison Weekly.
Wausau Daily Herald. Lawmaker showcases student art.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Chief Justice Abrahamson speaks out about public financing for campaigns.
Beloit Daily News.  Editorial:  Trust the voters, not the politicians. 
Tomah Journal.  Editorial:  School aid fix -- whose side is the Speaker on?
Baraboo News Republic. Editorial: Hines' bill deserves support.
Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter. Editorial: Voters will have chance to end abuse of veto power.
Wisconsin Radio Network.  Where should sex offenders live?

Agencies/Officials. 
Governor.  Announces $412.8 million in transportation aids for local governments.  2008 Transportation Aids List. 
Dept. of Revenue.  Consolidates statewide offices.
State Building Commission.  December 19th meeting agenda.
WisDOT.  Peshtigo DMV Customer Service Center closed Wednesday, December 26. 

Statewide.
La Crosse Tribune. Downtown tax office closing.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Revenue Department closing 19 offices.
Wausau Daily Herald. State 'green' school leader.

Health Care.
Wisconsin Abstinence Coalition.  The Puzzle Solver - e-News.
Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line.  Free stop-smoking medication available in new year.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Suitors court Synergy Health.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. St. Mary's urges Grafton to slow Aurora decision.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Underinsured pay both ways.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. EMSystem buys care technology.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Editorial: Health care cost deserves serious attention in 2008.

Environment/Energy.
Alliance for the Great Lakes.  Public hearing on Indiana's Great Lakes compact legislation.
UW Madison.  UW's James Dumesic named to 'Scientific American 50."

Polls.
WI Policy Research Institute. Poll: Wisconsin residents disillusioned with state government and political institutions. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel story.

Organizations.
Professional Dairy Producers of WI. Annual business conference set for March 11-12 in Madison.
Association for Equity in Funding. December newsletter. Table 1. Table 2. Table 3.

Elections.
Green Party of the US.  Seven candidates for the 2008 Green nomination will be on state ballots for the primaries.

Business.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  Helping borrowers will help neighborhoods.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Survey shows optimism for business growth.
Milwaukee Business Journal.  Air Wisconsin November traffic up 2.9%

Local Officials/Issues.
Milwaukee Rising.  I-94 will add hundreds of millions to cost; council, mayor pushes for transit. 
Dane County Executive Falk.  Millions in aid available for Dane County families struggling with home heating bills.
La Crosse Tribune. Federal stormwater rules to be costly to La Crosse.
La Crosse Tribune. Trempealeau County to consider ordinance restricting big turbines.
Appleton Post Crescent. Approval granted for new lift bridge in Little Chute.
Door County  Advocate.  Egg Harbor tax bills are late - by accident.

Congress.
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation.  Statement on Farm Bill approval by US Senate.
Wisconsin Farmers Union.  Senate farm bill, energy bill move America forward.
Appleton Post Crescent. Feingold votes against defense policy bill.
Appleton Post Crescent. Dairy farmers would get boost under Senate farm bill.

Noted.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. New book defends McCarthy, stokes debate over his legacy.
American Medical Association News.  Wisconsin doctor pulls double duty: 4 sets of twins in 24 hours.
 

Friday, December 14, 2007
 
Legislators/Legislative Issues.
Sen. Kedzie.  Wisconsin's economy keeps moving forward.
Sen. Lazich.  Taxes go up, people move out.
Sen. Risser.  Applauds passage of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month resolution. 
Rep. Musser.  Supports Safe Housing Act.
Sen. Breske.  Announces 2008 Senate Scholar Program.
Sen. Vinehout.  Hears collective bargaining issue on UW Eau Claire campus. 

Green Bay Press Gazette. Editorial: Leave special interests out of classrooms.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Hintz only area lawmaker to vote against cable competition bill.
Wausau Daily Herald. Democrats will push Healthy Wisconsin plan again.
Wausau Daily Herald. Editorial: Senate to tear up school tax formula.
Wisconsin Radio Network.  Wieckert wants to remove marriage penalty for disabled.
Ashland Daily Press.  Editorial.  Increased protection (domestic violence). 
The Capital Times.  Cities taxed by fiscal caps.

State Officials/Agencies.
DNR, Dept of Corrections. Join forces for safer Wisconsin (Felons with guns). Wisconsin State Journal story.
DOJ. Dane County court finds probable cause to commit Kevin Lindauer to treatment under Chapter 980.
DWD.  Meeting notices for week of December 17-21.
DATCP.  Last call for Johne's assessments, plans for participation next year. 
DATCP.  Proposed changes to Wisconsin's animal health rules set for hearings in January.

Statewide.
US Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform.  Wisconsin rises to 10th best in state liability systems ranking study.  Executive Summary. 
Wisconsin Policy Research Institute.  Poll:  Wisconsin residents very concerned about the growing costs of health care and prescription drugs.
Wisconsin Association of Family and Children's Agencies.  Wisconsin takes steps to support former foster youth (corrected release)

Appleton Post Crescent. Editorial: Updated government Web sites serve citizens best.
Wausau Daily Herald. Paper industry hit again (Domtar closing).
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Barrett wants better, but not wider, I-94.

Education.
Wisconsin Alliance for Excellent Schools.  Op Ed:  Wisconsin children deserve more. 
DPI.  Op Ed:  Superintendent Burmaster:  The arts are not a luxury, they are essential. 

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Web opening new classroom doors.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Parents wait for fallout from online school ruling.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. UW-Milwaukee pumps up research efforts.
The Capital Times.  Editorial:  UW shouldn't put fees on free speech. 

Healthcare.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Froedtert warns of rare brain illness risk.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Grafton hospital gets endorsement.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Health care reform tops wish list.

Energy/Environment.
Integrys Energy Group.  Engine block heater timers save money.
Public Service Commission.  Reduces rate request for Xcel Energy customers.
Public Service Commission.  Wisconsin cell phone users to see reduction in E-911 monthly surcharge. 
The Capital Times.  A season to fight coal.

Milwaukee County Supervisors Weishan, Dimitrijevic, Jursik.  Support for Great Lakes Compact gains momentum at County Board. 

Business.
University of Wisconsin Survey Center.  Badger Poll:  The Economic Outlook of Wisconsinites, Late Fall 2007.
 Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation.  Wisconsin Agricultural Outlook Forum, January 17.  More information. 
The Capital Times.  Dairy farmers prepared for ups and downs.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Ex-workers win round in Joy Global case.
The Capital Times.  Ripple effect seen with home prices.

Local Officials/Issues.
City of Milwaukee.  Where have all the hydrants gone?
Milwaukee Alderman Davis.  Appointed to top National League of Cities policy leadership post.
Madison Mayor Cieslewicz.  Weekly schedule - 12/17-21/07
Dane County Executive Falk.  Weekly schedule 12/15-25/07
La Crosse Tribune. 1% La Crosse hotel room tax hike approved.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Editorial: Two fewer seats, still too little interest (Winnebago County Board).
Wisconsin State Journal.  Editorial:  Shrink County Board of no shows.
Tomah Journal.  Resolution to combine county committees passes.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Not a case of either/or (transportation).

Of Note.
Door County Advocate. Leathem Smith Lodge closing.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Days may be numbered for storied eatery (Pig  'n Whistle in Shorewood).

Congress.
Rep. Ryan. House fails to strike pork-barrel earmarks from intelligence authorization bill.
Americans for Democratic Action/Citizen Action of Wisconsin.  Child health vigil at Ryan's office continues today.
Sen. Feingold.  Statement on New Jersey repealing the death penalty.
Sen. Feingold.  Statement in opposition to the Defense Authorization Conference Report. 
Rep. Sensenbrenner.  Opposes pay raise for federal judges.
 

Thursday, December 13, 2007
 
Legislators/Legislative Issues.
Sen. Taylor. Applauds Assembly action on compassionate care for rape victims bill.
Sen. Taylor. Votes $9.3 million to counties.

Wisconsin Family Action. Applauds passage of "Christmas Tree" resolution.
Milw. County Exec. Walker, Board Chair Holloway. Thank Legislature for releasing crucial child support funding.
Wisconsin State Telecommunications Association.  Taxing Internet access is shortsighted.

Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter.  Obituary:  Former legislator Dale Bolle.
Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter.  Op Ed;  Ed Huck, Wisconsin Alliance of Cities:  Time to index state shared revenues. 
Wisconsin State Journal. For both sides, emergency contraception fight continues.
Manitowoc Herald