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


April 2008

Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Legislators & Legislative Issues.
Budget Repair Bill.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. One bill could cover two issues. (Budget adjustment, Great Lakes Compact)
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Editorial: Great Lakes Compact. Watershed moment. (Call for public hearing on bill.)
Sens. Cowles, Ellis. Urge leaders not to combine budget repair, compact. Letter to leaders.
Rep. Nass. Memo to Speaker Huebsch on combining bills.
Rep. Kreuser. Statement on budget repair bill negotiations.

Other Releases.
Rep. Lasee. Weekly Notes. (Oil Prices).
Sen. Robson. Statement on GM announcement.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Lawmakers appear on 'public enemies' list.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Editorial: Beer tax increase can help resolve Wisconsin issues.
The Capital Times. Lobbyists make new friends with Assembly Democrats.

Statewide.
Oshkosh Northwestern. People want choice on whether Managed Forest Lands are public or private.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Motor records can be disclosed.
Door County Advocate. Cana Island Lighthouse opens Saturday.
Small Business Administration. Disaster loan deadline is May 14 for businesses in certain counties affected by drought.
Small Business Administration. Deadline for economic disaster loans is May 23 for small businesses affected by storms and flooding August 18-31, 2007.

State Agencies & Officials.
DWD. Wisconsin Safety Council honors Frances Huntley-Cooper.

Business.
Sheboygan Press. Multinational energy group convenes.
Wausau Daily Herald. Businesses pitch stimulus deals.
Wisconsin State Journal. Ten Wisconsin companies make 2008 Fortune 500 list.
PRNewswire. Freedom hums as main engines complete successful testing (Littoral Combat Ship; Marinette)
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Briggs, La Crosse firm laying off workers.
Janesville Gazette. Source of GM payments concerns retirees.
Janesville Gazette. Company plans to close Orfordville, Albany plants.
Kenosha News. Chrysler buyout plan motors along.
DeWitt Ross & Stevens. Wisconsin Law Journal names Bach and Senatori as leaders in law.

Education.
DPI. 120 students named All-State Scholars.
WEAC. President Mary Bell column on teacher appreciation.
UW Madison Daily Cardinal. James Thomson elected to society with highest honors.
Wisconsin State Journal. UW students want apology for canceled sex toy seminar.
Racine Journal Times. Case students set to perform musical they wrote.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Trying a new school of thought.
Door County Advocate. County program for at-risk students could be cut.

Healthcare.
PRNewswire. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield introduces industry's most comprehensive transparency initiative to Wisconsin.
Wisconsin State Journal. Madison-area hospitals are part of a growing, controversial trend.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. 700 exposed to rubella patient.
Governor. Announces nearly 72,000 have signed up for BadgerCare Plus.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. BadgerCare Plus off to a healthy start.
UW Health. A pacemaker for the stomach.
American Health Insurance Plans. Latest health savings account census.
Board on Aging and Long-Term Care. New Medicare program for coverage of certain durable medical equipment.

Organizations.
Wisconsin Nonprofits Association. To convene summit.
WI Counties Association. Weekly e-News.
AFSCME. Child care union wins landmark agreement with the state.
One Wisconsin Now. Wisconsinites say 'Mission Accomplished' when troops come home.
Wisconsin Calls. March/April newsletter.

Local Officials & Issues.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Lubar says revamp county government.
Milw. Co. Bd. Chair Holloway. Response to Sheldon Lubar comments.
Milw. Co. Sup. Rice. Response to Sheldon Lubar comments.
Appleton Post Crescent. Fox Cities' Project Promise earns state recognition.
Wausau Daily Herald. Lincoln County to break ground on $9 million jail project.
Wisconsin State Journal. Urban League reports Madison struggles with disparity between the races.
La Crosse Tribune. County board chairman optimistic recession won't mean big county cuts.
Milwaukee Rising. Hank Aaron Trail hearing Thursday.
Rivertowns.net. St. Croix County wants the state to pay up on jail costs for housing state prisoners.
Kenosha News. County may seek restitution from ousted Kehl for cost of special election to choose his successor.
Dane County Youth Commission. Falk announces 2007 youth grants.

Congress.
Sen. Feingold. On secret law and the threat to democratic and accountable government.
Sen. Feingold. Works to increase housing assistance.
Rep. Petri. Wisconsin students testify for cancer funding.
Rep. Sensenbrenner. Cosponsors legislation to end ethanol mandates.
Rep. Baldwin. Crane conservation act clears committee.
Rep. Baldwin. Congress affirms April as National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.
Rep. Baldwin. Railroad monopoly power nearing end of line.
Badger Cure. Wisconsin freight rail customers praise House committee approval of Railroad Antitrust Enforcement Act.

Campaigns, Elections & Politics.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Editorial: Let's hope for a clean rematch (Gard-Kagen).
Fisk for Assembly. Steps down as Lodi mayor.
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO. Announces endorsements for Congressional and state legislative races.
 

Tuesday, April 29, 2008
GM Layoffs.
Governor. Announces steps administration will take to help GM workers in Janesville.
Janesville Gazette. GM hits the brakes.
Janesville Gazette. Editorial: GM's bad news comes with silver linings.
Janesville Gazette. Not just GM; Suppliers, rest of the local economy take hits.

Statewide.
Badger Poll. Public opinion in Wisconsin on the economy.
TV4US. Four new cable providers apply for Wisconsin video franchises.
Appleton Post Crescent. See what gas stations passed, failed state inspections.

Legislators & Legislative Issues.
WI Democracy Campaign. Ranks legislators on political reform.
Sen. Lehman. To chair school safety study committee.
Council of State Governments. Rep. Suder co-chairs federally funded meeting of criminal justice experts.
Appleton Post Crescent. Kaukauna lawmaker calls for state budget resolution.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Voter ID ruled legal, but state law on hold.
League of Women Voters. Response to Supreme Court voter ID ruling.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Editorial: Voting should be easy.
State Engineering Association. Open government a key issue when state engineers meet with their legislators May 7.
WI District Attorneys Association. Response to DOA submission regarding audit of DA program.
Common Cause in WI. Pro-reform legislators join in call for legislative action in special session on campaign finance reform.

State Agencies & Officials.
DeWitt Ross & Stevens. Suit filed to compel DNR compliance with key rulemaking procedures.
AFSCME. Reaches tentative agreement with state on 07-09 contract.
DOJ. Waukesha County resident guilty of tax and public assistance fraud.
Dept of Corrections. Federal grant to enhance Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry.
DHFS. Secretary Timberlake visits Eau Claire BadgerCare Plus enrollment fair. Fact Sheet.
Janesville Gazette. Governor's troubled efficiency plan falls short.
DNR. News for April 29.
Attorney General. Informal opinion involving law enforcement records and open records request. Request for Opinion. Text of Opinion.
DOJ. Wisconsin Alliance for Drug Endangered Children to sponsor training conference for tribal program.

Organizations.
Sierra Club. Thousands of citizens to candidates "We have the Power2Change."
WI Catholic Conference. Ethical stem cell research resources.
Walk MS. Madison area residents to walk for a world free of multiple sclerosis.
Compassionate Care for Rape Victims Coalition. Wisconsin hospitals sent compliance toolkit.

Local Officials & Issues.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. DA ends inquests on demand.
Madison Capital Times. Immigrants' May Day rally to protest jail practice.
UW Madison Daily Cardinal. Search engine Google to open office.
Madison Mayor Cieslewicz. Google announcement points to future of Madison's economy.
Milwaukee County Board Chair Holloway. Announces appointment to county pension board.

Tribal News.
Indianz.com. Artman resigns from BIA after a year on the job.

Education.
Milwaukee Public Schools. Launches innovative teacher recruitment program.
UW Madison Daily Cardinal. Geology Dept. opens new 3-D imaging facility.
Appleton Post Crescent. Dozen teachers' jobs spared in Appleton.
Fond du Lac Reporter. Waupun schools face stressful cuts.
Racine Journal Times. Public forums to be held in Parkside chancellor search.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Editorial: Counting graduates.
Madison Capital Times. UW-Madison apologizes to top job applicant for revealing identity.
Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune. Insurance swap could save $1M.

Business.
Wisconsin Energy. Posts 1st Qtr earnings.

Campaigns, Elections & Politics.
Rivertowns.net. Eau Claire builder in race for 3rd Congressional District.
Danou for Assembly. Announces candidacy for 91st Assembly District.
Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter. Loopholes, TV fuel negative campaigns.

Congress.
Rep. Kind. Calls on Defense Dept, Army to improve conditions at Ft. Bragg, NC. Letter to DOD Secy. Gates.
Rep. Kind. Applauds Mayo Clinic healthcare reform proposal.
La Crosse Tribune. Mayo CEO: U.S. health systems should reward outcomes.

Noted.
Milwaukee Journal. Wisconsin man starts Website devoted to roadkill.
Attorney John Macy. Receives Waukesha County Bar Association 2008 Distinguished Member Award.
 

Monday, April 28, 2008

Legislators/Legislative Issues.
 Sen. Jauch.  State provides Douglas County planning grant. 
Sen. Schultz.  Office hours Friday, May 2.
 Rep. Musser.  Tax rebate coming soon. 
National Conference of State Legislatures.  Sluggish revenues at core of state budget woes.
National Conference of State Legislatures.  States tackle immigration issues with an array of legislation. 
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial;  Gun crimes:  Minimum sentences would tie judges' hands.

State Agencies/Officials.
Government Accountability Board.  Committee sends names of GAB nominees to governor. 
Governor Doyle.  Discusses climate change agreement with United Kingdom officials.
Attorney General Van Hollen.  Fights to restore crucial crime fighting funding.
Dept. of Veterans Affairs.  State to hold veterans campus outreach event at UW-Milwaukee May 7.
Dept. of Commerce.  Grants available for community planning. 
Dept. of Tourism.  Website recognized for overall excellence. 
Dept. of Tourism.  Event on interior design inspired by art earns $25,021 grant.
DNR.  May 1 public meeting will address proposed property boundary changes for the Hank Aaron State Trail. 
DHFS.  Secretary (Timberlake) visits Madison BadgerCare Plus Enrollment Fairs.  Fact Sheet. 
Tomah Journal.  DNR seeks action against county farmer after manure spill kills thousands of  trout.

Statewide.
Institute for Legal Reform. Wisconsin ranking on lawsuit abuse. Complete Rankings.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Older cars to get a pass on state emissions tests.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Fund-raising license plates slow to sell.
Wisconsin Ag Connection.  Governor proclaims Wisconsin Emu Week in May.

Education.
UW Madison.  University honors distinguished undergraduates. 
AFT Wisconsin.  UW faculty salaries far behind the curve.
Green Bay Press Gazette. UW-Green Bay sets sites on university expansion.
Wisconsin State Journal. Exodus of UW chancellors stirs concern.
Oshkosh Northwestern.  Chancellor Wells is finalist in Pennsylvania chancellor search.  York (Pennsylvania) Daily Record story. 

Sen. Grothman.  Public Instruction secretary should prioritize education spending.  DPI release on four-year-old kindergarten. 
Milwaukee Public Schools.  Two extra days of school attendance scheduled.
DPI.  Superintendent Burmaster to join Lake Holcombe Celebration for Excellence.
Racine Journal Times. Air academy proposal goes to Town Board.
Wisconsin State Journal. School districts look at consolidating.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Investment questions raised.
Janesville Gazette.  Editorial:  Pledge dispute in Edgerton is disturbing. 

Healthcare.
ABC for Health. Promotes Cover the Uninsured Week (April 27-May 3).
Wisconsin Primary Health Care Association.  Wisconsin health centers to observe Cover the Uninsured Week. 
Marshfield Clinic.  Pediatric oncologist utilizes intravenous radiation therapy. 
Medical College of Wisconsin.  Dr. Mary Horowitz receives two of the highest international awards in her field.
Wisconsin Radio Network.  Growing BadgerCare Plus.

Business & Entertainment.
Entertainment Software Rating Board. Reminds parents to observe ESRB rating when choosing video games for their children.
PDS.  Honored by Intel for most innovative solution for business.
Wisconsin Bankers Association.  Wisconsin bankers teacher students the financial ABC's on National Teach Children to Save Day.
Wisconsin State Journal. Epic business booms: Medical software company starts building second Verona campus.
Wisconsin State Journal. 'Public Enemies' a friend to Wisconsin.
PRNewswire.  Regal Beloit announces second quarter dividend.
PRNewswire.  Harley-Davidson encourages women to grab the handlebars on Friday, May 2, for International Female Ride Day.
PRNewswire.  Study reveals women feeling growing financial pressure on family life.
Business Journal of Greater Milwaukee.  Survey:  Providing health care an increasing challenge for small business.
 USA Today.  Credit card rates hustle higher.

Energy & Environment.  .
Wisconsin State Journal.  Editorial:  Keep blowing wind power forward.
Wisconsin Radio Network.  Retailers feeling the pain from high fuel prices.
Eau Claire Leader Telegram.  Gas prices hamstring non-profit transportation service.
Alliant Energy.  Employees and retirees earn over $116,000 for non-profits.
RiverTowns.net.  Group discusses energy solutions.

Superior Daily Telegram.  Editorial;  Great Lakes ballast measure long overdue. 

Local Officials & Issues.
Dane County Executive Falk.  Dane County secures funding to help first time homebuyers, seniors, communities. 
Sheboygan Press. Upgrades could delete shared service.
La Crosse Tribune. Sparta nixes hotel/rec center at Fort McCoy.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Pabst highway funds awaited.

Congress.
Rep. Ryan.  Mobile office resumes visit to communities. 
Sen. Feingold.  Statement on Cover the Uninsured Week.
 Rep. Kagen.  Assists homeowners.
Rep. Sensenbrenner.  Writes FBI for renewed investigation into Wisconsin drowning deaths.  MPN.Now  (New York) story. 
Wausau Daily Herald. Obey talks Iraq war, budget woes.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Few reforms find a home in farm bill.

People.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Green relishes Tanzania mission.

Courts.
US Supreme Court.  Crawford et al v. Marion County (Indiana) Elections Board et al.
Rep. Stone.  Reactions to Supreme Court photo ID ruling.
State Bar of Wisconsin. Attorney Douglas W. Kammer named president-elect.

Campaigns, Elections & Politics.
UW Survey Center.  Badger Poll:  Wisconsin residents sentiments on the presidential election. 
Gard for Congress. Announcement. Appleton Post Crescent story.
Rep. Kagen. Reaction to Gard announcement.
Hebl for 46th Assembly District.  To run for re-election. 
RiverTowns.net.  Dresser man to run for 28th Assembly seat.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Republicans searching for state Senate candidates.
Marshfield News-Herald. Point to host GOP, Dem conventions.
The Capital Times.  Editorial:  Begin reforming Wisconsin (politics) tonight. 
Tomah Journal.  Editorial:  Celebrity journalists ignored basic issues.
 

Friday, April 25, 2008
Legislators & Legislative Issues.
Sen. Lazich.  Popular Do-Not-Call List comes with a price. 
Sen. Kedzie.  New rules may impact lake property owners.
Sen. Robson.  Receives award from tech ed teachers. 
Sen. Jauch.  Applauds city of Mellon Senior Center and Library grant.
UW Madison Daily Cardinal. Fates of budget and Great Lakes bills to be decided soon.
Transportation Development Association.  Budget Repair Bill:  Thousands of jobs hang in the balance.     
Wisconsin Transportation Builders, unions.  Budget adjustment bill and the transportation fund.  May and June lettings.
Laborers International Union, Engineers Local 139, Wisconsin Council of Carpenters.  Budget impasse puts 2000 highway construction jobs at stake.
National Conference of State Legislatures.  Study:  Sluggish revenues at core of state budget woes.

State Agencies & Officials.
Dept. of Commerce.  Governor announces $400,000 Brownfield grant to City of Shawano. 
Dept. of Commerce.  Governor announces grants to aid statewide Wisconsin Community Development efforts.
Dept. of Commerce.  Governor announces funding for senior center and library in Ashland County. 
Dept. of Commerce.  Governor announces funding for multi-purpose community center in Marquette County.
Dept. of Commerce.  Governor announces job creation project in Marion. 
Board of Commissioners of Public Lands. Public school libraries to share an unprecedented $35 million in Common School Fund earnings.
DWD.  Meetings for week of April 28 to May 2.
DNR.  Kohler-Andrae State Park opens doors to accessible cabin. 
DNR.  Wisconsin's Wildlife Action Plan - conservation priorities regional open houses.
DNR.  Trout waters to be stocked in northern Wisconsin this spring listed.
DNR.  Willow Flowage boat landing repairs will provide better access. 
DNR.  Public invited to Governor Knowles State Forest management meeting. 
DOJ.  Chippewa County court commits Herbert Richards to treatment under chapter 980.
Wisconsin State Journal. Health-care company, state deny personal data was at risk.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Ex-judges apply for board of ethics spot.
RiverTowns.net.  Western Wisconsin needs passenger rail says group.
 
Statewide Issues.
La Crosse Tribune. New court ruling removes funding source from DARE program.

Energy/Environment.
Rep. Sensenbrenner.  Where's the plan?  (gas prices).
Dept. of Commerce.  Governor Doyle announces $2 million to reduce fuel costs and pollution. 
Integrys Energy Group.  Upper Peninsula Power Company and Fiserv promote earth-friendly benefits of electronic bills.
PRNewswire.  Wisconsin Power and Light receives interim order in ruel and purchased power cost rate adjustment request.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  Energy:  Wind on the water.
Beloit Daily News.  City eyes electric vehicles to cut fuel costs.
Janesville Gazette.  Strikes hurt GM less than oil prices.  
USA Today.  Unpaid utility bills soar as economy sags.

Milwaukee Mayor Barrett, Council President Hines.  Letter to Sen. Miller and Rep. Gunderson asking for a public hearing on revisions to the Great Lakes Water Compact. 
Alliance for the Great Lakes.  Beach bill would boost funding, public health.
Rep. Kagen.  Protects Great Lakes from invasive species. 
Superior Daily Telegram.  Experts warn of future attempts to raid Great Lakes water. 
UW Madison.  Veggies in the sky: Grocery business takes top honors in Burrill contest. The Capital Times story.
Wisconsin State Journal.  Editorial:  In defense of American farmers.

Education.
UW Madison Daily Cardinal. UW to launch Islam radio program.
La Crosse Tribune. La Crosse looks at education promise; officials hope to help local graduates with college costs.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Milwaukee Public Schools Board slashes busing.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. 55 apply for UW-Madison post.
Rochester (Minnesota) Post-Bulletin.  Rochester curriculum director leaves for job in Wisconsin. 
The Madison Times.  Shame, shame, shame on Wisconsin schools.

Health.
UW Health.  Healthy Wisconsin launches community teams. 

Local Officials & Issues.
Dane County Executive Falk. Weekly schedule.
Milwaukee Alderman Davis.  Honored for advocating minority business growth in Wisconsin. 
Milwaukee County Treasurer.  $5,000 contribution to Hispanic Scholarship Fund.
 Village of Elm Grove.  Files lawsuit against construction company over flood management program.
Milwaukee County Executive Walker.  Coordinates youth initiative.
Milwaukee County Board Chairman Holloway. Meeting schedule for the balance of 2008.
The Park People of Milwaukee County.  Announce the spring 2008 Weed-Out! schedule.
Madison Mayor Cieslewicz.  Weekly schedule - 4/29-5/3.
Racine Journal Times. Dover looks at limits on wind turbines.
La Crosse Tribune. Some La Crosse residents in shock over reassessments.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Dolan reportedly up for coveted N. Y. post.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Municipal officials say term limits not needed.
Janesville Gazette.  Editorial:  Janesville must get up and go green. 

Congress.
Midwest Environmental Advocates. House bill threatens EPA and state authority to regulate invasive species in ballast water.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. House passes bill to treat ballast water on ships.
Rep. Kind. Reflects on Earth Day.
Rep. Ryan.  Mobile office resumes visits to communities.
Rep. Petri.  House approves Coast Guard authorization. 
Rep. Petri.  National Education Association release supporting bipartisan bill to improve test accuracy. 
Rep. Obey.  House establishes national standards for ballast water treatment. 
Sen. Feingold.  Calls for action on first-ever World Malaria Day.
 Rep. Moore.  Fights for homeowners and renters.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Kagen organizes foreclosure advice.

Campaigns, Elections & Politics.
Wasserman for Senate SD-8. Continues knocking on doors.
Kohl for 22nd Assembly District.  Files campaign registration statement. 
NARAL Pro-Choice Wisconsin.  Meet the real John McCain:  Anti-choice, anti-birth control, anti-women.
Common Cause in Wisconsin.  Citizen forum on state political corruption, elections and reform at UW Monday. 
Democratic Party of Wisconsin.  Eight reasons John Gard is still too extreme for northeast Wisconsin. 
La Crosse Tribune. Stark to challenge Kind for Congress.
Appleton Post Crescent. Gard may try again against Kagen.
Appleton Post Crescent. Republican activist seeks 57th Assembly District seat.

Thursday, April 24, 2008
Legislators & Legislative Issues.
Budget Repair Bill.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Doyle looks to spare road work.

Others
CNN.  Florida considers Christian license plate.
Milwaukee Mayor Barrett.  The Barrett Report:  A call for action to fight crime and reduce violence.
Denver Post (Colorado).  TABOR deal starts to unravel. 

State Agencies/Officials.
Governor Doyle.  Meets with stem cell expert Dr. Stephen Minger.
Governor Doyle.  Urges end to unfair trade practices hurting Wisconsin paper industry. 
Governor Doyle.  Announces over $1 million for Fresh Start. 
Milwaukee Mayor Barrett.  Urges state (DOT) to make balanced investment.
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation.  Favors bringing back October antlerless deer season.
DNR.  Outdoor Report for April 24.
DATCP.  Comments requested for special cranberry pesticide registration.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. DNR Board rejects ATV trails in state forest.
DHFS.  BadgerCare - Dane County Enrollment Fair April 28.
The Capital Times.  Board OKs plan for CWD management. 
Wisconsin Radio Network.  Door to door salesmen in full force. 

Statewide Issues.
PRNewswire.  Deadline to apply for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans is May 23
Wisconsin Emergency Management.  Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week:  Statewide tornado drill today
Wisconsin State Journal. 'Significant security hole' in state's senior citizen database.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. State Fair parking fee goes up; shuttle discontinued.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  Alcohol and Wisconsin:  Cultural shift needed.
Appleton Post Crescent. PCB cleanup back in court.
RiverTowns.net.  Wisconsinites facing sticker shock not just at the pump. 

Energy/Environment.
Lt. Governor Lawton.  Issues Energy Star Schools Challenge.
Xcel Energy.  Observes Dam Safety Awareness Week.
Wisconsin Energy Corporation.  Wisconsin Energy, Wisconsin Electric declare quarterly dividends. 
UW Madison.  Will host human-powered vehicle challenge. 
UW Madison.  Part of DOE-funded "microgrid" collaboration.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Wind farms proposed on water.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Fueled protest:  Gas station owner shuts pumps for a day.

Great Lakes Maritime Task Force.  Historic ballast water bill passes House.
Midwest Environmental Advocates.  House bill threatens EPA and state authority to regulate invasive species in ballast water.   
The Capital Times.  Editorial:  Call Congress for climate change.
Toronto Star.  Builders urged to give Great Lakes some space.
Beloit Daily News.  Editorial:  On balance, solid ecological record. 
Bloomer Advance.  Innovative heated catalyst system wins governor's new product award. 

Education.
Great Lakes Center for Education Research and Practice.  Turnaround report is commendable, even with weaknesses. 
DPI.  Superintendent Burmaster Op Ed:  Students and adults must learn lesson of the Holocaust. 
UW Eau Claire Spectator. Emergency texting system available.
UW Eau Claire Spectator. Bake sale spotlights pay inequality.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Chancellor Shepard to leave UW-Green Bay.
Seattle Times.  Wisconsin educator is top pick to lead Western Washington University.  
Janesville Gazette.  Schools suited for learning about tolerance. 

Courts.
Life News.com.  Wisconsin pro-life pharmacist's case heads to state Supreme Court. 
DOJ.  Conviction for drunk driving on "private" roads upheld.

Health Care.
Wisconsin Women's Health Foundation.  Ten to be honored May 2 for demonstrating extraordinary leadership in women's health. 
La Crosse Tribune. Wanted: People to share health care experiences.
Sheboygan Press. Uninsured really feeling the pain.

Business.
American Subcontractors Association of Wisconsin.  Supports Camp Hope.
Dairy Business Innovation Center. Woolwich Dairy to host grand opening on May 9.
Wisconsin Economic Development Association.  Spring Conference April 30 & May 1.
Dept. of Commerce.  Plumbing Industry Week to be held April 27 - May 3.
PRNewswire.  TheIronHorseHotel.com launched, hotel set to open July 2008 (Milwaukee). 
Wisconsin State Journal.  Editorial:  Brain power pays dividends again. 
PRNewswire.  Blackhawk Bancorp announces record results in first quarter 2008

Local Officials & Issues.
Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District.  Household hazardous waste collection at State Fair Park this Friday and Saturday.
Milwaukee Council President Hines.  Draws on members' strengths, experience and leadership in making council committee appointments.  Committee list. 
Oshkosh Northwestern. County to bill EAA for traffic control.

Congress.
AARP. Thanks Wisconsin representatives for supporting bill to protect people in Medicaid.
Rep. Sensenbrenner. Receives 2007 'Spirit of Enterprise' Award.
Rep. Sensenbrenner.  Calls Senate climate bill "catastrophic for Wisconsin."
Reps. Kagen, Petri.  Urge the Commerce secretary to defend paper jobs from unfair imports.  Milwaukee Journal Sentinel story. 
Rep. Kagen.  Urges everyone to file for economic stimulus payments.
Sen. Feingold.  Statement:  An examination of the Delta-Northwest merger. 
Sen. Feingold.  Senate passes Feingold measure to help troops avoid unfair cell phone fees. 
Green Bay Press Gazette. House subcommittee approves funds for Green Bay veterans clinic.

Campaigns & Elections.
Weix for 90th Assembly District.  Biography
Wisconsin Right to Life.  Endorses Sen. John McCain. 
Gard for 8th District Congress.  Makes campaign announcement Sunday. 

Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Legislators & Legislative Issues.
Rep. Lasee. Weekly Notes (Pennsylvania Primary).
Sen. Fitzgerald.  Statement on Nestle Purina PetCare Company expansion in Jefferson. 
Sen. Jauch.  Marks Earth Day with visit to Washburn schools.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Local lawmakers discuss session.

Statewide Issues.
DWD.  March 2008 local unemployment rates.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Admitted drunken driving leads nation.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. DNR reduces bag limit for walleye on over 400 northern lakes.

Business.
AT&T. More than 200,000 Southeastern Wisconsin customers gain video choice with AT&T U-verse TV.
Wisconsin Ag Connection.  Pork Other White Meat Tour to make stops in Wisconsin. 
Wisconsin Association for Justice.  US Chamber's phony "rankings" serves extreme corporate agenda. 
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  A focus on next generation manufacturing.

Economy.
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation.  Market Basket shows food prices up nearly three percent.

Environment/Energy.
Dairyland Power Cooperative.  To preserve Bluff land on Mississippi River.
Alliant Energy.  Interstate Power and Light commits $400,000,000 to energy efficiency programs over next five years. 
RiverTowns.net.  St. Croix County and New Richmond bringing back rain barrels.
The Capital Times.  Climate "out of balance", prof says on Earth Day.

UW Madison.  We Conserve energy conservation initiative yields results.
Public Service Commission.  Agenda for Thursday, April 24 meeting.

Education.
UW Green Bay.  Chancellor Shephard is preferred candidate for Western Washington presidency.
UW System.  UW Green Bay chancellor to take post in Washington. 
UW Madison.  UW's computing research prowess brings Microsoft to Madison. 
UW Stout.  Students engineer fund Baja style. 
DPI.  Common school fund provides $35 million for school district library aid.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Elmbrook ends half-day kindergarten.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. K-4 program gets grant.
Oshkosh Northwestern. UW-Oshkosh aims to end use of fossil fuels.

Health.
Wisconsin Technology Network.  Stem cell frontier on display at Promega. 
DHFS.  Op Ed:  State Health Officer Dr. Shari Johnson: April is Minority Health Month.

State Agencies & Officials.
Wisconsin Board of Veterans Affairs.  Seeking nominations for Veterans Lifetime Achievement Award.
Wisconsin State Journal. State's former top lawman says retirement 'shoved down my throat.'

Local Officials & Issues.
Waukesha County Executive Vrakas.  Announces sustainability plan. 
Madison Mayor Cieslewicz.  Mayor seeks to keep city spruced up with Mowtown program.
Racine Journal Times. Board agrees to give DOT ownership over roads near I-94.
La Crosse Tribune. Cost could prohibit 'green' jail.

Congress.
Sen. Feingold.  Harkin, Feingold introduce bill requiring VA to track number of veterans who died by suicide.  
Sen. Feingold.  Statement - National Security Letters:  The need for greater accountability and oversight. 
Sen. Feingold.  Welcomes Senate's focus on veterans bill. 
Sen. Feingold.  Works to reform outdated mining law.
Sen. Feingold.  Statement on nomination of General Petraeus to be CENTCOM commander.
Sen. Kohl.  Calls on Congress to address global food crisis. 
Rep. Moore.  Speaks out in favor of equal pay for equal work. 
Rep. Moore.  Supports legislation to prevent cuts in Medicaid. 
Rep. Baldwin.  House adopts Baldwin resolution on glaucoma recognizes World Glaucoma Day.
 Rep. Baldwin.  Baldwin resolution honors National Day of Silence.
 Rep. Kagen.  New veterans clinic in Brown County takes another step forward. 
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  Farm bill:  Still time for a fix.

Campaigns, Elections & Politics.
Fradette for 30th Senate District.  Jobs, economy and health care reform will be the focus of state Senate campaign. 
8th Congressional District Democratic Party. Controversial ex-alderman to run for State Senate.
State Senate Democratic Committee.  Embattled former alderman running for Senate.
Englund for 81st Assembly District.  Launches Assembly campaign.  Capital Times story. 
Appleton Post Crescent. 57th Assembly District up for grabs.

Of Note.
RiverTowns.net.  Randy Iten launches road-kill record web site. 
 

Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Earth Day.
Tia Nelson.  Comments on Earth Day from the daughter of Earth Day founder Sen. Gaylord Nelson.  Tia Nelson's Earth Day speech. 

Sen. Feingold.  Statement on Earth Day. 
Rep. Kind.  Statement on Earth Day. 
Wisconsin Technology Network.  Tom Still:  Food versus fuel and other biofuel fallacies.
Sanimax. Wisconsin biodiesel production focused on reducing global warming.
US EPA.  Pledge to make Earth Day every day with Energy Star.
 Wisconsin Environment.  Applauds new house blueprint for global warming.
Green Party of the US.  Sends delegation to the second Global Greens Congress in Sao Paulo, Brazil May 1-4. 

UW Madison Daily Cardinal. University Book Store hosts student tree-hugging charity event.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Proudly green (Leopold Center).
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  Earth Day:  Fighting climate change.
Wisconsin State Journal.  Editorial:  Do your part to reduce mercury.
PRNewswire.  Johnson Controls turns Earth Day into Earth Quarter.
Green Bay Press Gazette.  16 eco-friendly activities to help the earth year-round. 
The Capital Times.  Editorial:  Earth Day leadership.
The Globe and Mail.  (Toronto Canada)  How one day changed the world. 
Marshfield News Herald.  Cell phone recycling among school's Earth Day efforts.

Jobs.
Wisconsin Women's Council. Women earn less regardless of educational attainment. (Gender Wage Gap). Mind the Gap Issue Spotlight.   Governor's Proclamation. 
Sen. Hansen, Rep. Sinicki.  Wisconsin still has work to do on equal pay. 
Manpower. Annual 10 hardest jobs to fill survey.
Manpower (PRNewswire). Annual talent shortage survey.
UW Madison Daily Cardinal. Top UW System officials earn more than Doyle.
The Business Journal of Greater Milwaukee.  Work force training needs "dramatic reform," business leaders say. 

Legislators & Legislative Issues.
Rep. Suder.  Named Legislator of the Year by Wisconsin Academy of Pediatrics. 
Sen. Harsdorf.  Interest in regional health cooperative draws crowd. 
Sen. Kreitlow.  Flynn Elementary 4th graders' artwork on display in state Capitol. 
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Doyle says trade mission isn't sign of budget-repair bill impasse.

Energy.
Integrys Energy Group.  Wisconsin Public Service and ecXco sign wind farm sale agreement. 
Alliant Energy.  Wisconsin Power and Light Company moves to purchase wind farm development site.
American Transmission Company.  Delgado named to DOE Electricity Advisory Committee. 
Wisconsin Radio Network.  Congressman calls for limiting strategic oil reserve.
Sheboygan Press.  Energy-saving bulbs may be a tough sell. 

Organizations.
Wisconsin Right to Life.  Fred Barnes keynote speaker at WRTL gala Thursday. 
Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin.  To expand and remodel on reservation casino. 

Health Care.
UW Health.  A "neat" way to think about fitness.
UW Health.  National Turn Off TV Week.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Op-Ed: David Newby: Get serious about health care reform.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  Health care: Junking the status quo.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Law stirs up medical community (Compassionate Care for Rape Victims).

Education.
Lt. Governor/DPI.  Members of Wisconsin Task Force on Arts and Creativity in Education named.
UW Madison.  Four named as University Health Services director finalists. 
UW Madison Daily Cardinal. Replacing John Wiley.
UW Madison Daily Cardinal. Replacing John Wiley. Governor Doyle weighs in on prospective candidates for UW-Madison chancellor.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Report: Head Start funding cuts crime.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Milwaukee Area Technical College expects to cut expenses.
Appleton Post Crescent.  Kaukauna middle school  sports move may save money.
Eau Claire Leader Telegram.  Districts to debate consolidation. 

State Officials & Issues.
DNR.  G. Andrew Larsen named as 2008 ECO award winner. 
DNR. Weekly News Report (Record-breaking harvest of Lake Michigan chinook salmon, other stories). 
WisDOT.  Conducting second WIS 13 public information meeting on May 5. 
Dept. of Commerce.  Governor Doyle announces grants.
Dept. of Commerce.  Governor Doyle announces expansion of Nestle Purina PetCare Company. 
Wisconsin Army and Air National Guard.  Flags lowered to half-staff Thursday for Marine Lance Cpl. Dean Opicka and Cpl. Richard Nelson. 

Local Officials & Issues.
Milwaukee County Board. Holloway re-elected chair.
Milwaukee County Executive Walker.  Applauds business volunteer effort. 
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Holloway remains board chair (after 45 ballots).
Milwaukee Rising. Freeway expansion won't help traffic speeds in Kenosha, Racine counties.
Citizens Allied for Sane Highways. Says WisDOT confirms freeway expansion a waste of money.
Racine County Executive McReynolds.  Will host May 5 Town Hall meeting at Caledonia's East Side Community Center.
Dane County/DNR.  Early season herbicide treatment and mechanical harvesting to occur in Turville Bay Wednesday. 
Madison Mayor Cieslewicz, Dane County Executive Falk.  State and local leaders partner to protect, preserve Cherokee Marsh. 
Dane County Housing Authority.  Community agencies launch the Housing Center.

Racine Journal Times. Lincoln Lutheran plans to build 14-unit condominium development.
Racine Journal Times. Panel unanimously OKs concealed weapons for retired police officers.
La Crosse Tribune. Bishop candidates talk faith at forum.
Wisconsin State Journal. Sheboygan Memorial Day Parade canceled.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Stipend covers drive from work (Germantown).

Campaigns, Elections & Politics.
Common Cause in Wisconsin.  Public Forum:  What Ever Happened to Good Government in Wisconsin?  How Can We Fix It? 
One Wisconsin Now.  Launches McCain Iraq Tax on Wisconsin web site.  Link to the web site. 
Appleton Post Crescent. Nelson challenged for 5th Assembly District seat.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Five nurses hope to join the Legislature.

Congress.
Rep. Moore.  To host first Academy Day Saturday, May 10.
Racine Journal Times. Ryan says immigration reform should be incremental.
 

Monday, April 21, 2008

Legislators & Legislative Issues.
WI Dental Assoc. Legislative Audit Bureau confirms WDA concerns.
Wisconsin State Journal. Lobbyists' plan to help legislative employee gets scrutiny.
Wisconsin State Journal. Hospital tax may be dumped.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Expansion of 911 fee sought.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Effort to reduce privacy breaches faces obstacles.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Lawmaker questions creation of K-9 unit.
The Capital Times.  Editorial:  Vote for a smoking ban.
Tomah Journal.  Editorial:  Science is clear - - baiting and feeding deer must stop. 

State Agencies/Officials.
Governor Doyle.  To visit Ireland, United Kingdom.
Governor. Announces grand opening of DreamBikes.
DNR.  City of Shawano seeks Stewardship grant to acquire land along the Wolf. 
DNR. City of New London seeks Stewardship grant for land acquisition. 
Dept. of Commerce.  One day conference on growing community wealth to be held in Wisconsin Rapids June 5th.
Wisconsin Educational Communications Board.  Gene Purcell named executive director. 
Wisconsin Dept. of Veterans Affairs.  Supermarket of Veterans Benefits reaches out to over 525 veterans in west central Wisconsin. 
WisDOT.  Work slated to begin on WIS 74 in Waukesha County. 
WisDOT.  Schedules WIS 64 public information meeting on April 29. 
WisDOT.  Public meeting scheduled on April 23 for US 18 (Moreland Blvd & Bluemound Rd) in Waukesha County. 
WisDOT.  Public information meeting scheduled for April 23 for WIS 29 corridor preservation plan. 

Organizations.
Wisconsin Counties Association.  WCA eNews (district meetings, other information).
Midwest Environmental Advocates.  Livestock Facility Siting Review Board reverses Crawford County decision on hog confinement expansion. 
Forest County Potawatomi Community.  Class I air on Potawatomi reservation will benefit Northwoods. 

Statewide Issues.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Dozens of state workers have bigger paychecks than governor.
Appleton Post Crescent. Congressional panel hears of Great Lakes water, species problems.
Appleton Post Crescent.  Pier exemption "grandfathers" many large structures.
Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter. Lawmakers told 'please act now' on Great Lakes.
Green Bay Press Gazette. Old vehicles auctioned by the state have tales to tell.
Oshkosh Northwestern. Family Care program concerns non-profits.
Green Bay Press Gazette. New law allows exceptions for older piers.
Wisconsin State Journal. Suit over well could be precedential.

Earth Day.
Rep. Kind.  As Earth Week begins, Kind announces kids' educational initiative at Genoa National Fish Hatchery.
Lt. Governor Lawton.  It's easy to be green. 
Sen. Jauch.  To visit Washburn schools (Earth Day).
Orion Energy Systems (Manitowoc).  To ring bell on Earth Day at the NASDAQ stock market.
Cellcom.  Cellcom (Green Bay) goes green. 
US EPA.  Ask not what the environment can do for you this Earth Day.
UW Madison.  Engineering class infuses green ideas into local building projects.
Clean Wisconsin.  Celebrate Earth Day with action. 
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation.  Lists Top 10 agriculture achievements this Earth Day. 

Wrightstown Post Gazette.  Editorial:  Make small changes to save the Earth. 
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Column:  We can all do something to help Mother Earth. 
Sheboygan Press.  Editorial:  Become earth-friendly this Earth Day.
The Vancouver Sun.  Earth Day:  Birthday Day of the Green movement. 
USA Today.  What's green and funny and read all over?  Earth Day cartoon strips.

Education.
UW Whitewater.  Chancellor finalists named.
Wisconsin Alumni Association.  UW Madison "originators" honored with 72nd annual Distinguished Alumni Awards.
DPI.  32 districts qualify for 4K start-up grants.
UW Eau Claire Spectator. Honoring Education Pow-Wow draws many tribes.
UW Eau Claire Spectator. Author offers bleak outlook for Eau Claire.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. School lunch costs rise.
The Capital Times.  State technical college grad income on the rise. 
RiverTowns.net.  New Chippewa Valley Technical College president says River Falls campus growth on radar.

Energy.
Rep. Kagen.  President Bush has power to reduce high gas prices.
PRNewswire.  Alliant Energy marks 10 years of operation with ceremonial bell ringing at NYSE.
Wisconsin State Journal.  Op Ed:  The high cost of ethanol. 
Wisconsin Ag Connection.  State corn growers:  Ethanol is not causing food price hikes. 
Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter. Judge dismisses wind farm case.

Economy.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  The economy:  Americans have good reason to be concerned. 

Business.
Wisconsin State Telecommunications Association.  April Newsletter. 
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Editorial:  Work force development:  One more useful tool. 
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.  Jewelers Mutual to pay record dividend.

Health.
Marshfield Clinic.  Spring is ankle sprain season in the Northwoods.
Wisconsin Primary Health Care Association.  Dental contract audit shows more work is needed to improve dental access. 
Wisconsin Dental Association.  Milwaukee Brewers Hart and Weeks to kick off Stamp Out Spit Tobacco program. 

Courts.
Legal Newsline.  Wisconsin Supreme Court accepts Medtronic defibrillator case.

Local Officials & Issues.
Racine County Executive McReynolds.  To begin holding office hours in western Racine County. 
Madison Mayor Cieslewicz.  (Dave) Gawenda nominated for city treasurer position. 

Green Bay Press Gazette. Drug disposals aim to reduce water contamination.
Wausau Daily Herald. Budgets fall to winter's wrath.
Sheboygan Press. County Board's 'feminine side' draws praise from all.
La Crosse Tribune. Ehrsam may be off the county board, but he's not done serving.
La Crosse Tribune. Bialecki looks back: 23 years of service started with a tax complaint.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. New supervisors may tip election for (Milwaukee County Board) chair.
Door County Advocate.  Sturgeon Bay Visitors Center members behind room tax.
The Capital Times.  Madison Water Utility seeks 18 percent rate hike.

Congress.
Sen. Kohl.  Unveils foreclosure rescue scam bill.

Campaigns & Elections.
Wisconsin State Journal.  Editorial:  Join the merit reform campaign.
Wisconsin Policy Research Institute.  The Good Ol' Days of Mudslinging.
 

Friday, April 18, 2008
Legislators & Legislative Issues.
Sen. Plale, Rep. Honadel. Announce funding approval for South Milwaukee DMV renovation.
Sen. Plale, Rep. Richards. Applaud approval of design for remodeling Golda Meir Library.
Rep. A.P. Williams.  Willians and the African American Education Council say "no" to takeover of Milwauk