CALEDONIA UNPLUGGED

60% of Wisconsin School Districts maintain or cut levies under Walker Budget

2011-11-17T13:25:00.003-06:00

Of 448 school districts in the State, 269 were able to either hold their tax levies at current levels, or actually reduce the burden on taxpayers with tools available through the Walker 2012-13 Budget!

Charlie Sykes has the entire list of 269. Of course, Racine Unified, since they negotiated with their unions before the budget took effect, lost out on savings that could have been passed along to us!

Despite citizen objection, S. Milwaukee Walmart moving forward

2011-10-21T15:41:00.003-05:00

Although the article doesn't specifically state it, sounds like South Milwaukee is willing to create a TIF district to bring in Walmart.

South Milwaukee Walmart moves ahead

Yeap, those evil corporations!

2011-10-08T10:26:00.001-05:00

(click to enlarge)

Obama's energy policy

2011-09-26T09:47:00.000-05:00

2011-09-21T15:35:00.000-05:00

Starve grandma and grandpa - no problem...just don't mess with my choo-choo trains!

2011-07-19T09:04:00.010-05:00

So, Obama is threatening cuts to social security and medicare (which of course he'll try to blame on Republicans) but is not willing to cut $53 billion in spending for high-speed (or not so high-speed) rail projects! Why am I not surprised?

What the Debt Limit Battle is All About

Journal Times, Capital Times and Wisconsin State Journal revenue problems risk NYSE listing for parent company

2011-07-17T09:10:00.004-05:00

It will be interesting to see just how long some print newspapers are able to hold on since I'm not buying the claim that their revenue problems are primarily the result of a down economy.

Lee Enterprises stock dips below $1 minimum

H/T Fred at Real Debate

Patriotic spirit alive and well in Cape Cod

2011-07-10T11:40:00.002-05:00

Why in SE Wisconsin do we get the flash mobs that vandalize and terrorize? Why can't we get one of these?

"Stop it, Ann, this isn't like you."

2011-06-29T12:51:00.004-05:00

Wondering why this account of "chokegate" is not appearing in the mainstream media? Nevermind, I know the answer!

More details emerge in Wisconsin's chokegate
A few excerpts from the article follow.

According to one witness, Bradley charged toward Prosser, shaking her clenched fist in his face. Another source says they were “literally nose to nose.” Prosser then put his hands up to push her away. As one source pointed out, if a man wants to push a woman who is facing him, he wouldn’t push her in the chest (unless he wants to face an entirely different criminal charge). Consequently, Prosser put his hands on Bradley’s shoulders to push her away, and in doing so, made contact with her neck.

At that moment, another justice approached Bradley from behind and pulled her away from Prosser, saying, “Stop it, Ann, this isn’t like you.” Bradley then shouted, “I was choked!” Another justice present replied, “You were not choked.” In a statement following the incident, Bradley maintained Prosser “put his hands around my neck in anger in a chokehold.”

Co-Chair of Joint Finance to be featured guest at local GOP meeting

2011-06-20T21:12:00.002-05:00

92 diamonds to recognize 92 years for Packers Super Bowl ring

2011-06-17T06:49:00.006-05:00

Top photo is the Super Bowl XLV ring; Bottom photo shows all four Packer Super Bowl rings

All the details on the ring HERE.

Top Wisconsin Court Invalidates Ruling Striking Down Union Bargaining Law

2011-06-14T20:49:00.005-05:00

Just in case you haven't read this anywhere yet...this comes from Bloomberg news.

Wisconsin’s Supreme Court threw out a lower court ruling invalidating legislation signed by Governor Scott Walker that curbed public employees’ collective-bargaining rights.

The high court ruled today that Dane County Circuit Court Judge Maryann Sumi exceeded her authority when she issued a May 26 order invalidating the measure after she had found it was created in apparent violation of the state’s open meetings law.
Continue reading HERE.

The entire Supreme Court ruling including a concurring statement from Justice Prosser and dissenting statement from Chief Justice Abrahamson can be found HERE.

Wind power turbines in Altamont Pass threaten protected birds

2011-06-06T07:04:00.005-05:00

Where is the outcry from the environmental left on this issue? How many times have we heard of the delay or cancellation of a development project by the DNR or pressure from the Sierra Club because some rodent, salamander, insect or some such creature will be displaced, yet silence on the killing off of a protected species? Interesting! Reminds me of the gentleman who was all bent out of shape at the thought of a red fox being displaced if Walmart was to build in Caledonia. Wonder if he'd share a similar outrage over this article?

By Louis Sahagun, Los Angeles Times
June 6, 2011
Reporting from Oakland—

Scores of protected golden eagles have been dying each year after colliding with the blades of about 5,000 wind turbines along the ridgelines of the Bay Area's Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area, raising troubling questions about the state's push for alternative power sources. I encourage you to continue reading here.

H/T Jay Weber

2011-05-30T06:18:00.001-05:00

Friday Fun

2011-05-20T09:21:00.002-05:00

Mr. CU's video on how to get drenched while filming waves at Reefpoint Marina during high winds - from last Sunday.

What we've got here is a failure to communicate...

2011-05-19T09:58:00.004-05:00

Just a few days ago, Village President Ron Coutts was quoted in a JT article as saying, "While the Walmart proposal appears to be over, the Highway 31 area will likely be on the list of areas to be re-examined."

Then today, a more encouraging article appears in the JT indicating Walmart is still interested in a store in Caledonia.

HELLO! Is anyone communicating with anyone on this proposal? Are the negotiations going to be funneled through a newspaper reporter? Did the JT reporter think to get comment from President Coutts on this latest article? Have we reached some sort of unspoken stalemate that has the Village waiting to rezone the 4 Mile/Hwy 31 area until it sees a proposal from Walmart, and Walmart waiting to come forward with a proposal until it has an indication that area will indeed be rezoned?

Osmosis isn't going to get it done guys - you have to actually communicate - could someone pick up the phone and make the call please?

Caledonia committee seeks County involvement for 794 extension

2011-05-10T22:14:00.006-05:00

Members of Caledonia's Legislative and Licensing Committee, Trustees Kevin Wanggaard and Tom Weatherston, worked with Village Administrator Tom Lebak this afternoon to hash out the language for a resolution that will move 794 another step closer to realization in Racine County.

The resolution will express Caledonia's support for the extension of 794 into Racine County and ask the Racine County Board to pass a resolution to include Racine in a study group being overseen by the Southeast Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission.

Currently, Milwaukee is studying the extension of 794 to a southern point of Hwy 100. From the draft minutes of the Village Board on May 3: Trustee Weatherston updated the board that Patricia Jursik, Milwaukee County Supervisor and Chair of the 794 Committee, came to the last Caledonia 794 extension committee meeting. One of the discussions at the 794 meeting was a concern with bottlenecking on Hwy 100. The village needs to be proactive and get a plan in place to address the additional traffic the extension will bring. This is what the committee is focusing on.

Wanggaard and Weatherston (who also sit on Caledonia's 794 Committee) also discussed extending the road into Racine County to at least 6 Mile Road, and possibly further if the City of Racine and Mt. Pleasant are supportive. A study committee would likely focus on finding the most feasible route to bring the highway into Racine.

The resolution is expected to be presented to the full Village Board at their first meeting in June.

2011-05-02T11:00:00.000-05:00

Racine Tea Party supports citizen "buy-cott"

2011-04-28T15:50:00.001-05:00

click to enlarge

Walmart in Caledonia, Part III - Neighborhood Market

2011-04-27T08:36:00.012-05:00

These pictures are of a Walmart Neighborhood Market in Dallas, Texas, provided by a Caledonia resident who was visiting that area.

The "Neighborhood Market prototype" is what has been suggested by Walmart representatives for a potential development in Caledonia at 4 Mile Road and Hwy 31.

Click on any picture to enlarge.

Caledonia's 794 committee meeting again next Monday

2011-04-22T14:32:00.004-05:00

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the I-794 Extension Committee will be meeting at 5:30 p.m., on Monday, April 25, 2011 in the Conference Room at the Caledonia Village Hall, 6922 Nicholson Road, Caledonia, Wisconsin, for the purpose of the following:
1. Update from Milwaukee County regarding the plans and timelines for
the extension of I-794.
Dated April 21, 2011.
Karie Torkilsen
Village Clerk

Milwaukee's Lake Parkway Advisory Committee met on February 16th, primarily discussing whether or not intersections would be needed (and alternatives) at the following major cross streets:

Layton/Edgerton; Grange; College; Rawson; Drexel; Forest Hill; Puetz; Ryan and STH 100.

I've included the notes on the discussion of Hwy 100, since that is currently planned as the end point and could determine the feasibility of extending the parkway into Caledonia/Racine County. The full minutes from that meeting (including maps of potential roadway crossings) can be found HERE.

STH 100
1. Mr. Yunker noted that two locations are being considered for an at-grade intersection at STH 100—one location at the existing intersection of STH 100 and Pennsylvania Avenue and one location at a point west of the existing intersection of STH 100 and Pennsylvania Avenue. Mayor Bolender expressed concern that intersecting the Lake Parkway extension at Pennsylvania Avenue may result in additional traffic using local roadways, such as Ryan Road, to access the Lake Parkway extension to avoid possible traffic congestion on STH 100. Mayor Richards noted, and Trustee Weatherston agreed, that locating the intersection west of Pennsylvania Avenue would potentially make it easier to extend the Lake Parkway south into Racine County.

Mr.Yunker noted that it may be costly to construct an at-grade intersection west of Pennsylvania Avenue because STH 100 is elevated at that location.

2. The Committee agreed to review further information regarding the potential impacts of the two
alternative locations being considered for an at-grade intersection at STH 100.

Government Gone Wild - the National Debt

2011-04-20T09:12:00.001-05:00

H/T Tom W and Dave W

Bender Park boat launch closed until May 20th

2011-04-19T13:15:00.005-05:00

A few weeks ago, Mr. CU and I witnessed a small fishing boat returning to the Bender Park boat launch at the end of Ryan Road in Oak Creek. At one point it looked as if they were on the bottom pushing off with their oars. We spoke with the fishermen - they estimated the depth at 1 foot or less in spots!

On a return visit last week, we saw the equipment and booms in place for Milwaukee County's Bender Park Safe Harbor Dredge project.

According to the contract award, this will be at a price of $263,633 to remove approximately 8,000 cubic yards of sand. Depending how wet the sand is, this equates to somewhere in the range of 20 to 30 million pounds!

Could it be?

2011-04-17T08:07:00.004-05:00

Could it be village officials are finally at the "serious" stage about extending sewer and water services to the I-94 corridor? The items on the agenda for a joint meeting this Wednesday would seem to indicate they are.

SPECIAL VILLAGE BOARD AND UTILITY DISTRICT MEETING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Caledonia Village Board and Utility
District will hold a Special Joint meeting on Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at the Caledonia/Mt.Pleasant Joint Park, 9614 Hwy K, Franksville, Wisconsin, at 6:00 p.m., for the following:

1. I-94 Corridor Water Engineering Report and Sanitary Sewer Facility Plan Update from Foth Infrustruture & Environment, LLC.

2. Discussion regarding finance options as presented by Ehler’s & Associates.

Dated April 15, 2011
Karie Torkilsen
Village Clerk

HWY 38 Expansion apparently IS the new route

2011-04-15T07:52:00.007-05:00

The J-T's article today on the expansion of Hwy 38 seems to indicate the DOT is looking at the reconfiguration, rather than just an expansion of the existing road.

This is GREAT news for Caledonia. Not only would the new road improve safety via better visibility (better topography - fewer hills), the new road will give easy access for trucks to the back of the Caledonia Industrial Park. Easing the truck traffic currently routed through residential areas would obviously improve safety in those areas, but it would also give a huge boost to the marketability of the industrial park. In fact, the lack of easy access to the park has served as a deterrent to attracting industry.

I, for one, have my fingers crossed the DOT and the new administration will go ahead with the new route, rather than just widening an already dangerous and antiquated road.

One other comment - this route has been discussed for some time and, from what I remember, was slated to begin much sooner than the 2016 date given in the J-T article. However, I believe this is one of the road projects that was tossed onto the scrap heap when Governor Doyle raided the transportation fund to balance the budget in 2006 or 2008.

A slight diversion...

2011-04-11T22:00:00.005-05:00

click to enlarge
With Mr. Bluebird making regular appearances in our yard lately, can summer be far behind? Last year I found the remnants of bluebird eggs that some critter had devoured - hoping this year I'll find a nest.

Official Caledonia election results - UPDATED

2011-04-06T14:00:00.002-05:00

8,534 citizens voted in Caledonia in the Spring election, or about 42.4% of registered voters - not sure if that's a record, but that's a huge turnout. Based on the undervotes, the race for Supreme Court Justice followed by the Unified referenda and the County Exec race were the main motivations for Caledonians to go to the polls. If you're new to this, an undervote means a ballot was cast, but there was no selection made for that particular race or issue.

How your neighbors voted:

SUPREME COURT JUSTICE
Prosser 5031 (59%)
Kloppenburg 3325 (39%)
Undervotes 165 (2%)

RACINE COUNTY EXECUTIVE
Ladwig 4930 (58%)
Hall 2823 (33%)
Undervotes 769 (9%)

VILLAGE PRESIDENT
Coutts 5716 (67%)
Write-ins 103 (1%)
Undervotes 2715 (32%)

TRUSTEE #1
Burton 4994 (58.5%)
Write-in 933 (10.5%)
Undervotes 2605 (31%)

TRUSTEE #3
Wanggaard 4963 (58%)
Write-in 1040 (12%)
Undervotes 2531 (30%)

TRUSTEE #5
Dobbs 3840 (45%)
Michalski 2676 (31.4%)
Write-in (various) 34 (0.40%)
Undervotes: 1983 (23.2%)

VILLAGE CLERK
Torkilsen 5583 (65.4%)
Write-in (various) 28 (0.4%)
Undervotes 2923 (34.2%)

UNIFIED REFERENDUM #1 ($83 million for buildings)
No 5432 (64%)
Yes 2646 (31%)
Undervotes 465 (5%)

UNIFIED REFERENDUM #2 ($35 million for educational programs)
No 5492 (64.4%)
Yes 2561 (30%)
Undervotes 480 (5.6%)

UNIFIED REFERENDUM #3 (Exceed the fund balance)
No 5603 (65%)
Yes 2381 28%)
Undervotes 550 (6%)

With only 2% undervotes for Supreme Court Justice, 5% for the Unified Referenda and 9% for the County Executive race, it seems obvious these races/issues were top on the minds of Caledonia voters. Of course, when you have two uncontested races and the candidates for the race that is contested do little to engage citizens and get out the vote, you end up with 20-30% of the voters seemingly apathetic about the citizens that are making decisions for them at a local level - not a good thing. In particular, I'm a little surprised at a 23% undervote in the Dobbs/Michalski race - that's way too high, and the fault of the candidates for not getting out their message.

I wouldn't venture a guess of how much interest the anti Walmart write-in campaigns spurred, certainly some. However, with only 11-12% of those voting sufficiently motivated to write-in Tepley and Gottardo, in my mind anyway, it would appear there isn't as much widespread "anger" about the Walmart proposal as this vocal group of citizens would have us believe. Of course, this was a last minute campaign, and there may be many more opposed to the possible development who weren't willing to cast a vote for a single-issue candidate, but I do think the anti-Walmart candidates sent out more lit than Dobbs and Michalski.

Something I've never done before, but thought it'd be interesting - WHICH POLLING LOCATIONS HAD THE HIGHEST TURNOUT: (rounded up or down)

Holy Communion 47%
Gifford School 46%
East Side Community Center 46%
St. Louis Church 45%
Prince of Peace 37%
St. Andrew's 34%

**Election results are still considered unofficial until after the Board of Canvass meets to finalize the votes on Thursday.

________________________________________________________________

Originally posted 4-5-11 10:45 p.m.
Trustee #1
Burton 4994
Write-in (Tepley) 890

Trustee #3
Wanggaard 4963
Write-in (Gottardo) 996

Trustee #5
Dobbs 3840
Michalski 2676

Unified Referendum #1
No 5422
Yes 2646

Unified Referendum #2
No 5492
Yes 2561

Unified Referendum #3
No 5603
Yes 2381

These are HUGE numbers for a Spring election in Caledonia at about 42% turnout (my best guess at this point) and it looks like the main motivation was the Unified spending referenda. Correction - a reader has pointed out the Supreme Court Race actually had fewer under votes than the referenda. Check back later in the day - I'll be doing an analysis of the vote in Caledonia on all the candidates and issues.

Well, well, isn't this interesting

2011-04-03T15:44:00.004-05:00

Now even our local trustee elections are being co-opted by big labor? Have heard from a number of fellow residents that they've received one or two postcards in the mail the last day or so. Both cards are apparently identical, but one card has a return address of our local AFL-CIO and a disclaimer that they've paid for the card, while apparently the other one has the candidates' names as the source of the funding - no one has sent that card to me yet.

I've blocked out the candidates and incumbents names just in case this is some sort of scam, doesn't appear to be. Since this card does name both the write-in candidates, clearly advocates voting for them, and is not strictly issue oriented, the question does come to mind, is the Racine AFL-CIO Council a PAC (political action committee) and, if so, does this card pose a problem? Anyone with more knowledge than I, or any election law attorneys/experts out there that care to weigh in, please do so.

More union shenanigans - pink slip mail scam?

2011-04-01T12:30:00.008-06:00

The following postcards have been coming to State Senator Van Wanggaard's home recently, until the post office was contacted not to deliver anymore after the first few were received. It's unknown how many were on their way. It appears there was an orchestrated effort to send these cards to Senator Wanggaard without having to pay for them by using Wanggaard's home address as the return address and actually requiring Wanggaard to pay for his own pink slip messages - would have been nice if they'd at least looked up the zip code first!

Walmart in Caledonia, Part II

2011-03-29T20:00:00.002-06:00

My estimate is about 250 Caledonia residents came out last night, some throwing just about everything but the kitchen sink at representatives for a proposed Walmart development at Hwy 31 and 4 Mile Road.

The team of developers, attorneys, architects, brokerage rep, and environmental and technical consultants led by Lisa Nelson (Walmart corporate representative) spent the majority of the two hours answering questions and accusations (many aimed at the Walmart corporate entity) from the audience, some very pertinent, some personal, some emotionally based and some just plain rude to the point of being embarrassing.

Unfortunately, with time devoted to complaints, outbursts, and histrionics not much new information was presented about how this particular development would take shape. So rather than focusing too much on the audience comments, I'm going to detail as much as I remember of what we did learn.

- Walmart has yet to even submit preliminary plans to the Village - they were told to meet with the neighbors first;
- Walmart reps have done their research on other sites and this has proved to be the most attractive;
- They haven't yet done any traffic studies;
- If the proposal moves forward, there would be at least two additional public hearings for a zoning change and amendment to the Land Use Plan;
- There will not be any small tenants in the store, i.e. bank, dry cleaner, etc., as there are at many other stores;
- Because of Caledonia design standards, this Walmart would reflect a substantial upgrade in building materials from most stores;
- The store would most closely resemble the new store in Muskego;
- Walmart would OWN this store, they don't own the property in Sturtevant;
- The Village could determine the store's hours, whether it would be 24 hours or not;
- This Walmart would have LED lighting, most don't, which would be directed down and greatly reduce light pollution;
- The average Walmart associated makes $12.98/hr
- All Walmart employees (full and part-time) are eligible for benefits and 89% are covered by their health plan for as low as $23/month;
- There are approximately 30,000 Walmart employees in Wisconsin;
- Walmart is one of the largest taxpayers in the state;
- Walmart is one the national leaders in environmental design; including natural lighting from skylights, LED lighting and a heat recovery system to heat water and maintains a very aggressive recycling program.

For the most part, I was impressed with the Walmart team, in particular, that there seemed to be some room for flexibility with the development. Of course only time will tell if that's the case and we'll wait and see what the next step is in the process.

Now my awards for the best, and worst comments: One of the best questions, IMHO, because it related directly to this development and a possible environmental situation: In the event of excessive rainfall, could oil and other substances from the parking lot that have drained into the retention pond overflow into the root river. Walmart was reassuring of their drainage systems and wastewater retention, though I didn't really hear any engineering specifics.

The worst, or should I say most bizarre statement: A former Caledonia trustee's feigned indignation was on full display when she complained that the brokerage rep had asked to speak with anyone after the meeting if they were aware of a potential alternate site with 15 acres. This individual was greatly insulted that the rep was expecting us to do his work for him. WHAT?? He was looking for input, why wouldn't we want to encourage having input in the process - personally, I was impressed. Someone needs to get off their high horse.

In my mind, however, the main obstacle to a Walmart at this location is 4 Mile Road, yet I heard nothing of this discussed. Possibly because there have been no traffic studies yet, but obviously this winding "country" road will take a beating from increased traffic. I would have liked to know if Walmart would take steps to improve 4 Mile Road in that general area or if that expense would fall to the Village.

Were there citizens in favor of the development in the crowd? Yes, but obviously they weren't as vocal. From watching reactions during questions and counting the "keep us green" ribbons, I'd estimate opponents outweighed supporters 3 or 4 to 1.

(click to enlarge any photos)
Preliminary concept drawing for the Caledonia Walmart

Drawing of greenspace around the Walmart

Typical grocery area in a neighborhood Walmart

Walmart in Caledonia? UPDATED

2011-03-27T20:15:00.000-06:00

Thought I'd bring this back to the top since there have been a number of interesting new comments, and to remind everyone of the presentation by Gatlin Development this Monday at Gifford School - specifics in the right sidebar.

"Government belongs to those who show up", "The world is run by those who show up." A couple variations that come to mind of that very true quote. In other words, have a very strong opinion on the Walmart development? Then show up and let your trustees know. Don't assume the trustees are mind readers or that someone else will do the job for you. This is bound to be an emotionally charged issue and our elected officials deserve to have as much input as possible from both sides if this proposal goes forward.

_______________________________________________________
Originally Posted March 1, 2001; 7:15 PM
Not if this crowd has anything to say about it. Angry residents became vocal during, but particularly after the brief meeting. I counted three Caledonia officers in the room just in case things got a little too rowdy, but their services were not required.

A crowd of over 100 turned out (a few holding "no Walmart signs") at the East Side Community Center for the very brief and very preliminary presentation from individuals representing the Gatlin Development Company, the firm looking to site a potential Walmart and other smaller retail outlets near the corner of Hwy. 31 and 4 Mile Road.

President Coutts explained this idea had only come to them on February 23rd and somehow the media got wind of the proposal and residents were concerned, which is why the meeting was called.

There's not much very substantive to report about the appearance of the development, but what we do know:

- Representatives stressed this was very, very early in the process and this would be a Planned Unit Development which requires numerous steps they will follow in accordance with Caledonia's ordinances and DNR and DOT requirements, and will conduct several public meetings and hearings if this proposal goes forward. In fact, this meeting was so preliminary, Gatlin didn't even have a site plan prepared.

- The developer is proposing to buy about 30 acres at the NW corner of 4 Mile and Hwy 31 heading north.

- This would be what Walmart is marketing as their "new prototype" store more geared for local neighborhoods.

- The actual Walmart would not be on the corner, but further north (see diagram below.) Approximately 10 acres at that site would be retained as greenspace for now and possibly developed in the future.

- The store and parking lot would require about 12 acres of the 20 acres set aside for the initial development. Remaining 8 acres would be retained as wetlands and retention ponds, drainage, etc.

- The Walmart would be 115,000 square feet with about 40,000 dedicated to grocery/pharmacy, the remainder would be general merchandise...there would be no automotive department.

- The initial development would have a value of about $10 million and add about $230,000 to Caledonia's tax base. Future smaller retail in the area would add an estimated additional $170,000 to our tax base and would possibly include restaurants or other "jr box" developments.

- The Walmart would create 150 permanent jobs; 60% full-time, 40% part-time.

- Gatlin stated they did look at Hwy 32, however, "there wasn't a site that has the characteristics that could work" for this development.
(click to enlarge)

This evening's meeting was an initial introduction for the Village Board and Plan Commission - no comment was accepted from the public, though there were several outbursts from the crowd, including calls for "recall" and warnings about April's election.

A public meeting will be held on March 28th, possibly at East Side Community Center, at which time Gatlin will have much more information to present to the public.

From my perspective, there wasn't enough information to make any sort of judgment on the value of this proposal for Caledonia. I understand the knee-jerk/angry reaction from some residents - this is their neighborhood. However, I hope officials will do their due diligence and closely examine all aspects (pro and con) of this potential development before handing down the yay or nay.

Full details on Racine County Executive forum

2011-03-21T20:38:00.001-06:00

Still not sure who's getting your vote for Racine County Executive??

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RACINE COUNTY EXECUTIVE CANDIDATE FORUM

CONTACT: George Meyers
Meyersgam@wi.rr.com
262 635 0792

March 24, 2011 is the day Ken Hall and Jim Ladwig will face off in this informative forum sponsored by the Racine Taxpayers Association. It will take place in the Great Lakes Room in the Racine Building at Gateway Technical Institute on the lake in Racine. It will start at 7:00 PM and finish up at 8:00.

Issues such as jail space for rent, controlling the Sheriff’s budget, reduced State aid to the counties, how to balance the budget after the Governor’s Budget Correction Bill, tax levies and lay offs are all on the table. Welfare fraud and the Ridgewood deficit are also in question.

At lot is at stake here. Which of the candidates do you want involved in the decision making as the County Executive?

Questions come from the audience. Both candidates will address each question.

Admission is free. This forum is open to the public. The purpose is to get constituents better acquainted with the candidates. Don't miss it!

Now private citizen threatened by man with ties to Racine gang

2011-03-18T12:01:00.005-06:00

This letter was received by a private citizen and forwarded to radio talk show host Vicki McKenna - I'm assuming it's a confirmed letter. I'm reluctant to post more vulgar crap on this blog, but I think this letter speaks to the twisted mindset of some of those supporting collective bargaining. Can't help but wonder how much the non-stop barrage of "civil" rhetoric from the Democrats and unions in the past month has contributed to this man's rage. It sure would be refreshing to hear from what I believe to be the vast majority of public employees that wish to distance themselves from this type of behavior.

click once or twice to enlarge

Mayoral candidate forum tonight

2011-03-17T07:15:00.003-06:00

Don't think leadership in Racine affects Caledonia? Just a few examples:

- Did you know Caledonia is tentatively planning to hook up to Oak Creek water to service part of the I-94 corridor and northern sections of Caledonia rather than extending service through Racine because of Racine's exorbitant REC fees and Oak Creek's willingness to provide water at a wholesale rate? Negotiations continue over who will provide services to other areas of the village.

- IF 794 ever extends into Racine County, the City of Racine will undoubtedly play a role in the route it will take.

- Discussions of the expansion/repaving of 3 Mile Road between Douglas and Main continue with the city. LaSalle to Main Street construction is going forward, but the section between LaSalle and Douglas remains under negotiations. The Village will have to entirely foot the bill for that section - Racine wants a complete rebuild (they'll be using funds from the Sewer Agreement) while Caledonia would prefer resealing and paving.

The Racine Taxpayers Association is sponsoring a Mayoral Candidate Forum tonight.

Who: Mayor John Dickert and challenger Eric Marcus
Where: Gateway Technical College, Great Lakes Room in the Racine Building
When: Thursday, March 17th. Forum starts at 7 p.m.; doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Admission is free.

Questions will come from the audience and both candidates will address each question.

Move over Walmart - Caledonia considering an asphalt plant?

2011-03-15T18:54:00.008-06:00

Dan Hintz, Caledonia resident and owner of South Hills Country Club and some of the surrounding acreage, gave a very preliminary presentation this evening to our Village Board, Plan Commission and a few dozen interested citizens regarding potential development at the Country Club site. Hintz is currently in discussions with two interested buyers, one of them Stark Asphalt, the other wishing to remain anonymous. Development of the asphalt plant would be situated near the back of the club with truck traffic exiting on Golf Road.

A Stark Asphalt proposal was recently denied status as a "spectacular use" by the Caledonia Board in accordance with the Caledonia-Raymond Cooperative Agreement, which would have allowed development of a plant near I-94 in Raymond. Stark Asphalt also operated a temporary site behind the Village Hall during the Hwy 38 repaving.

Hintz outlined a preliminary overview of development potential on his land which could also include trucking terminals and outside storage. His proposal would have the Village funding the upgrade to Golf Road to Class A to accommodate heavy truck traffic and building another north-south road through his parcels, preferably via the established TID financing. The plant would not require municipal sewer and water.

Discussion among village officials included the roads/funding; lack of information about the asphalt plant; the denial of the plant in Raymond; the potential for future development near an asphalt plant; the possibility of reduced rates for asphalt (though this seemed to be merely Hintz speculating); and this land being the southern gateway to Caledonia. Something I would have liked to hear Hintz discuss would have been the anticipated tax revenue the plant would generate since these plants do qualify for some sales and use tax exemptions.

Some officials were opposed to an asphalt plant, others seemed open to the idea. The consensus was to invite Stark in to provide more information about their plan and go from there.

An amendment to the Village's Land Use Plan as well as a zoning change to M-3 (heavy industrial) would be required for the asphalt plant to move forward. Current zoning in the area is agricultural, commercial, residential and parkway, the last to accommodate the golf course at the club.

Color me "SHOCKED"

2011-03-14T10:33:00.004-06:00

No, really, the mainstream media didn't report on death threats received by Republicans in Wisconsin? How could this be? There's no hypocrisy, double standard (or dare I say political agenda) within the media is there?

ABC, CBS, MSNBC, NBC and NPR Ignore Death Threats to Wisconsin Republicans

And while we're on the subject of NPR, since one of their top execs recently admitted they'd be better off without public funding, why do we still publicly fund this media outlet?

Do the rules apply to union protesters? UPDATED

2011-03-13T11:00:00.001-06:00

UPDATE: a reader thinks I've been "brainwashed" into what I'm not sure, but thought I'd post the actual facilities rules for the State Capitol so people can see just how many rules were obviously broken or ignored. Wondering if the "user organizations" (WEAC, SEIU, AFL-CIO, etc)in this instance provided the required liability insurance as specified below...oops, guess not, looks like the taxpayers are on the hook for damages.

STATE FACILITIES USE PERMITS
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
http://www.doa.state.wi.us/section.asp?linkid=76&locid=163

The following are general procedures for events or use of All State Office Buildings and All State owned properties. The Department of Administration (DOA) must approve all permits.

The business in any building will take precedence over any permit - The Capitol Police may make last minute changes or may cancel the event (permit) if it is deemed necessary

Permit Application must be in at least 4 weeks prior to event.

All events must be within the following time span.
M-F -Noon-1:00pm or 5:00pm-5:45pm
Sat.-Sun & Holidays: Inside events 8:00am-4:00pm
Sat.-Sun: Outside events 6:00am-9:00pm

All inside Capitol events will be on the first floor Rotunda. The freight elevator must be used to transport equipment to the first floor. A key may be obtained from Capitol Management.

Helium balloons are not permitted in the Capitol Building.

No sticks, poles or lathe may be used to carry any sign or placard into any building except by authorized employees.

The sale, display, or vending of commercial products or articles in any building or on the grounds is prohibited.

No monetary contributions may be solicited or collected on state property.

Items, including banners, may not be hung, glued, pasted, taped, draped or in any other manner affixed to any part of the building or grounds unless specific permission is received from Capitol Police. This includes but not limited to walls, doors, elevators, podium, trees, railings, light poles, etc.

Equipment provided by Building Management is for inside use only except for the outside electrical adapters. Any equipment (tables, chairs, risers, display boards) brought in by permit holder must have soft rubber feet to prevent sliding and scratching of the marble.

Parking is not provided for any event unless extenuating circumstances and prior arrangements have been made.

No vehicle may be driven or parked on any sidewalk or lawn area unless for the specific purpose of loading or unloading. Vehicles permitted to park may do so for only the period of time that it takes to off load their cargo. Vehicles parked beyond that point will be ticketed and towed. Prior approval is needed for any use of a vehicle on a sidewalk or lawn area.

Vehicles permitted to drive on the sidewalk may not operate in excess of 5 miles per hour. Vehicles violating the speed limit will be asked to leave the sidewalk area immediately. Drivers may be subjected to further enforcement action. Drivers given permission to park vehicles on the sidewalk may not block the sidewalk for pedestrian use.

Organizers, workers, and visitors for any event held on DOA property must abide by all DOA parking regulations as posted unless specific exemptions are allowed by DOA. Violators will be cited and maybe towed.

Golf carts are not permitted on sidewalks. Golf carts operating in the parking or the first traffic lanes of the square must proceed with extreme caution. Violators will be subjected to a traffic citation.

Weddings are limited to fifty people or less. Wedding receptions are not allowed. Rice, birdseed and/or bubbles may not be used. No rooms are available for changing. Chairs are available but set up and take down are the responsibility of the permit holder.

Alcoholic beverages will not be permitted. Due to staining of marble and other material, red base food/beverages are not permitted at any time.

All displays permitted within the facilities must be appropriate to the facility. Permit applicants should present a description and sketch/photo of the proposed display when submitting their completed permit application. After set up, permit applicants must notify the Capitol Police administration office (B3N) for an inspection of the permitted site. If a portion of the display is deemed inappropriate the applicant will be requested to remove the item.

Displays are permitted for a maximum of 14 days from installation. Applicants are responsible for set up, take down, and clean up of all displays, but if necessary, assistance may be available from Building Management M-F.

When transporting material above the ground floor level, freight elevators must be used unless permission is received from the Building Management.

Amplifiers of any type may not be permitted in the common area of a facility or on the grounds except for the following periods - Monday - Friday Noon to 1pm and 5pm-5:45pm, Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 8:00am - 4:00pm.

Demonstrations and rallies are permitted on the outside grounds. If a hardship exists for the event to be held in the interior of a facility prior approval must be made. This MUST be arranged with the Capitol Police at time of application

The permit holder will pay any extra personnel for the event. This does include clean up after the event if the permit holder did not do so and any extra police officers needed for the event.

The State of Wisconsin is not responsible for the theft or damage to any item left for display.

All electrical wires must be secured by tape or other means as not to present a safety hazard. For larger events, electrical needs can be directed to the Building Management. A state electrician is required to be on duty at all times if electrical hookups draw more than 30 amps of electrical power.

All canisters under pressure must be secured (helium, etc.) in accordance with HFS code. This typically means chained to a fixed object.

Candles are not permitted inside or outside any building.

For Farmers Market Literature tables- Non-profit group's only- Applicant will provide own table not to exceed 3 feet square. Selling of items will NOT be allowed. Collection of donations will not be allowed.

No open fires or grills permitted.

User organizations shall provide liability insurance with coverage limits in the maximum amounts.

A certificate of such insurance shall be provided to the Capitol Police at least two weeks in advance of the scheduled event. The certificate shall name the respective facility, Department of Administration, and the State of Wisconsin as the insured and must preclude the right of subrogation against such agencies and their officers, employees, representatives and their agents.

Any questions or concerns can be directed to the Capitol Police (608) 266-7840.

****************************
Originally posted February 24, 2011
Having been at the Capitol last Saturday and witnessing scenes similar to this, a friend has sent the inquiry below to the Madison Capitol Police.

Inside the Capitol Rotunda February 23, 2011. Photo published with owner's consent.

"It smells like a combination of a men's locker room in the summer and hot wet garbage."

Subject: Rules at the Capitol
>
> To: Lt. Marc Schmidt, Capitol Police
>
> Dear Lt. Schmidt,
>
> I was at the Capitol on Saturday, and am closely following the news of
> the protests. I am extremely disturbed by what is happening to our
> historic state Capitol, and by the apparent non-enforcement of written
> rules to protect this important building and the work that is supposed
> to go on there.
>
> I read the various rules & philosophies on your website, and have
> friends who've been responsible to get the permit for events at the
> Capitol. We don't understand why so many rules are being ignored.
>
> Based on the "Facilities Rules" document at your website, and with
> all due respect...
> 1. Do these people have a permit?
> 2. Will they be required to pay for the large numbers of extra
> personnel required?
> 3. How are you justifying so many people sleeping there? Are there
> not even health department rules against this? Fire code?
> Anything?
> 4. What about the stated time periods allowed for
> demonstrations/events? Why are those being completely ignored?
> 5. There are reports of hundreds of pizzas being shipped in. The
> rules say "no red-based food"...?
> 6. There are countless banners and posters everywhere. As stated
> in your rules, I do hope all of these displays have been expressly
> approved. And will they be taken down on the 14th Day?
> 7. Will they have to pay for the extensive cleaning that will be
> required to get tape off the marble walls? I have heard duct tape
> is being used. That should be considered vandalism.
> 8. Your rules state demonstrations will be allowed on the first
> floor only, and yet pictures show these people whooping &
> hollering, hanging banners, and sleeping on multiple floors.
>
> In addition, does the DOA routinely provide permits to non-Wisconsin
> residents to occupy the Wisconsin peoples' state Capitol and disrupt
> it's business?>
>
> And what about the rights of the employees that work in the Capitol.
> Do they not have the right to a clean, safe and productive work
> environment? How long is this going to be permitted to go on?
--------------------

Can you just imagine the waling and gnashing of teeth from liberals and the main-stream media if the Tea Party, or any other group for that matter, had staged this type of sit/sleep/filth in two years ago when Doyle and the Democrats passed more than a billion dollars in tax increases without allowing one single minute of public input? Oh wait, that wouldn't happened. Most Tea Party members have jobs from which they'd be fired if they didn't show up for work!

DEATH THREATS - the new tone of "civility" from the unions?

2011-03-10T09:17:00.004-06:00

"Please put your things in order because you will be killed and your familes
will also be killed due to your actions in the last 8 weeks. Please explain
to them that this is because if we get rid of you and your families then it
will save the rights of 300,000 people and also be able to close the deficit
that you have created. I hope you have a good time in hell. Read below for
more information on possible scenarios in which you will die."

Above is an excerpt from an e-mail WTMJ has acquired and Charlie Sykes has posted on his blog. I encourage you to read how a completely unhinged, thuggish mentality has infiltrated a portion of the Capitol mob protesters and has spawned a plot to kill Republican Senators AND their families. Warning - reading not suitable for children.

DEATH THREATS

Greed (noun )\grēd\ intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power or food

2011-03-09T08:31:00.009-06:00

Thinking Websters, Oxford, Wikipedia, etc. might want to revise their definitions to include the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 67! Union appeals snow blizzard grievance

For even one brief flash of the synapses in your brain, does anyone out there really still believe these unions would be willing to make concessions to their benefits under existing collective bargaining privileges? Really?

Fallen Caledonia Marine to be memorialized at Crawford Park

2011-03-07T18:15:00.004-06:00

The following motion was unanimously approved by the Village Board at their March 1st meeting:

Whereas, Lance Corporal Daniel Wyatt, a native son of Caledonia, and an avid baseball fan, was killed in action in Iraq, October 12, 2004; and
Whereas, on February 24, 2011, the Caledonia Park and Recreation Commission unanimously approved the naming of the concession and ball diamond area within Crawford Park the LCpl Daniel R. Wyatt memorial ball park; and
Whereas, The Caledonia Park and Recreation Commission, also approved the placement of a memorial plaque within the grass area behind the concession stand denoting the memorial, pending their final approval of the memorial; and
Whereas, Village Trustee Thomas Weatherston has been designated to chair a memorial donation fund for the memorial from the public, veterans organizations and local corporations; and
Therefore, I make a motion that the Village Board support the action of the Park and Recreation Commission; that the Village set aside $5,000.00 to offset the cost of the memorial, That the village provide labor through the highway department or Parks Commission to assist in transportation, setting and rigging of the memorial to the extent capable within those departments; and that the Village allow the fund raising efforts to deposit proceeds into appropriate Village accounts and assist in paying invoices for the memorial as need rises from these funds.

Wyatt was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Corps Reserve, Chicago, Illinois and was killed by enemy action in Babil Province, Iraq. Additional background on Wyatt can be found here: Honor the Fallen

An account has been set up at the Village of Caledonia for donations to the memorial:

MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Village of Caledonia (please reference the Daniel Wyatt Memorial Fund)
MAIL TO: Village of Caledonia, Attention Village Clerk Karie Torkilsen
6922 Nicholson Road
Caledonia, WI 53108

FOR ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MEMORIAL: Please Contact Village Trustee Thomas Weatherston at 262-989-3424 or tweatherston@gmail.com

So that's where they're hiding...

2011-03-05T10:21:00.004-06:00

How do your salaries and benefits compare?

2011-02-27T06:50:00.004-06:00

A reader provided these numbers. Some of you may have seen them posted on other sites, but thought I'd post them here as well for those that might not have seen them.

AVERAGE WAGE AND BENEFITS (remember this is for about 9 months of work)

TEACHERS:

Milwaukee $86,297
Elmbrook $91,065
Germantown $83,818
Hartland Arrowhead $90,285 (highest teacher was $122,952-lowest was $64,942)
Menomenee Falls $81,099
West Bend $82,153
Waukesha $92,902
Sussex $82,956
Mequon $95,297
Kettle Morraine $87,676
Muskego $91,341

STAFF:

Arrowhead - Bus Mng - Kopecky - $169,525
Arrowhead - Principal - Wieczorek - $152,519
Germantown - Asst Princ - Dave Towers - $123,222
Elmbrook - Burliegh Elemetary - Principal Zahn- $142,315 (for a primary school!!)
Madison - Asst Principal - McGrath - $127,835

UNIVERSITY of WISCONSIN STAFF (2009) (salary alone):

Michael Knetter - Prof of Bus - $327,828
Carolyn Martin -Chancellor Mad- $437,000
Hector Deluca - Prof of Nutritional Science - $254,877

(source:Madison.com -as the UW removed salaries from being posted online in 2007- why if they are so low?)
How about some other "public servant job" ??? What do they make?
Madison Garbage men (2009) (salary only):

• Garbageman, Mr. Nelson earned $159,258 in 2009, including $109,892 in overtime and other pay.
• Garbageman, Greg Tatman, who earned $125,598
• 7 Madison garbage men made over $100,000
• 30 Madison garbage men made over $70,000
MILWAUKEE CITY BUS DRIVERS (salary only):
136 Drivers made more than $70,000
54 Drivers made more than $80,000
18 Drivers made more than $90,000
8 Drivers made more than $100,000
Top Driver made $117,000
(Source WTMJ)

(The average private bus driver makes $9-13 an hour (about 20,000 yr) with no pension, or healthcare.)

Great Rockford, Ill tourism video

2011-02-25T15:00:00.002-06:00

Looks like the missing 14 have helped put Rockford, Ilinois on the map.

Sen. Robert Wirch Recall Exploratory Committee meeting tomorrow

2011-02-23T19:04:00.004-06:00

UPDATED: The Recall Wirch citizens group has launched a blog. Info and updates can be found here:
Recall Wirch

Important Announcement Regarding the Robert Wirch Senate District 22 Recall

Kenosha, WI – The citizens of District 22 are keenly aware that Senator Robert Wirch has been off the job for seven entire days. We say…it is time for him to come back. Chairman Dan Hunt of the Recall Wirch Exploratory Committee says “if Senator Wirch doesn't like his job enough to be in Madison to do it, we will make certain that he stays home permanently”. “This disruptive and unprofessional behavior is detrimental to the recovery of Wisconsin and it needs to end now”, said Hunt.

Who: Robert Wirch Recall Exploratory Committee
When: Thursday, February 24, 2011, 12 PM
Where: Holiday Inn Express, 7887 94th Ave, Pleasant Prairie, WI

Recall Wirch is a citizens group set to recall State Senator Robert Wirch
for failure to perform his duties to Wisconsin

Caledonia represented at Lake Parkway (794) study committee meeting

2011-02-22T15:55:00.007-06:00

Thanks to Racine resident Jeff Warg for the following report from the February 16th meeting of the Lake Parkway Advisory Committee and thanks to Trustee Weatherson for representing Caledonia as part of our 794 committee.

Here is a brief report on the 794 meeting:
The group discussed two alternative designs, one with limited access, much like the current 794 and another with higher access that included at-grade intersections. Alternative 1 was discussed more than Alternative 2, with potential interchanges suggested at Rawson, Drexel and Puetz with the extension ending at Hwy 100. College Ave was not recommended as an exit after some discussion. There were concerns about traffic at the railroad crossing backing up. Also mentioned was the uncertainty with the proposed College Ave postal facility. Any extension of 794 would have the same speed limit as the existing section of 794. Old Ryan Road was proposed to become a cul-de-sac on either side of the Lake Parkway.

Caledonia Trustee Tom Weatherson attended the meeting and offered valuable input on the direction 794 should take near Hwy 100. He suggested it continue south right up to Hwy 100 rather than another option which showed it looping off to Pennsylvania Ave just north of Hwy 100. This would make an extension into Racine County more feasible.

No date was set for the next meeting of the study committee. It will be held at Mitchell Field and will discuss issues with the military and also look at runway expansion plans at Mitchell Field.

I asked one the committee members and was told that if Racine County decided to pursue the idea further they would form their own study group rather than join the Milwaukee study group.

Senator Bob Wirch first to undergo recall?

2011-02-19T09:00:00.004-06:00

WisPolitics.com is reporting that an exploratory committee has formed to recall missing State Senator Bob Wirch, Democrat from Kenosha. Papers are expected to be filed with the General Accountability Board on February 21st.

Although state law requires a one year waiting period (from the date of swearing in) to recall any elected official, since Wirch was re-elected in 2008, that waiting period has already expired. I anticipate Wirch will be just the first in a long line of officials to see some level of recall efforts launched against them in the next year.

State legislators representing Caledonia, Senator Van Wanggaard and Representative Robin Vos, were elected in the 2010 election cycle and would be immune from a recall effort until January of 2012.

Chicago Tribune editorial weighs in on Madison mayhem

2011-02-17T20:41:00.002-06:00

America's labor movement can claim historic victories that have served the common good. Safer workplaces. Laws to protect children from workplace exploitation. The eight-hour workday. Those who are in unions can justifiably be proud of those and other accomplishments. continue reading here: Lost: The common good

One lamb grateful for representation

2011-02-15T09:18:00.005-06:00

This commentary by Denis Navratil pretty much sums up my feelings on the Walker Budget Repair bill, only more eloquently.

"On Government Employees and Lambs"

We are about to witness a huge upsurge of hysteria over Governor Walkers attempts to limit the power of state employees and their unions. So I began to ponder the purpose of unions and to what extent government employees should even need one.

My understanding is that unions formed initially in the private sector. Through a collective with a looming threat of strikes, unions sought to win a greater share of profits, improve working conditions etc.... when negotiating with ownership.

continue reading here:
On Government Employees and Lambs

Aaron Rogers: "I'm going to Disneyworld!"

2011-02-07T18:59:00.002-06:00

Considered posting one of the many awesome highlights from the Packer's victory, but thought many of you might not have seen this. BTW, not my video!

Caledonia committee formed to study 794 extension

2011-02-04T17:31:00.003-06:00

The Village Board approved the appointment of a six-member committee to look at the feasibility of extending 794 through Caledonia. Milwaukee County has formed an Advisory Committee to study the extension south to Hwy 100. The Caledonia committee will work in conjunction with the Milwaukee committee and report back to the Village Board.

If you haven't noticed and are interested, there is information regarding the next meeting of that Milwaukee Advisory Committee in the right sidebar.

Full story of the Caledonia committee at the J-T.

Ryan on repealing Obama Care

2011-02-03T09:58:00.002-06:00

H/T Freedom's Lighthouse

ObamaCare "must be declared void"

2011-02-01T11:40:00.003-06:00

In the latest of the legal wranglings over ObamaCare, U.S. District Judge Roger Vinson ruled yesterday that Congress violated the Constitution by requiring Americans to buy insurance and said the entire law "must be declared void."

The Wall Street Journal breaks down the legal decision.

State Democrats are becoming pretty wacky themselves!

2011-01-26T14:13:00.003-06:00

In response to the "Wacky Voucher" story in today's J-T, the Racine County Republican Party has issued the following statement:
For Immediate Release
January 26, 2011
Contact: Bill Folk, Chairman, 414-975-3600

State Democrats are becoming desperate
Congressman Ryan represents WI well

Last night Congressman Paul Ryan responded to President Obama's State of the Union Speech. His thoughtful response highlighted the stark contrast between the fiscal irresponsibility of the Obama Administration and the Republican position. Congressman Ryan spoke about the $3 trillion dollars that Democrats have recklessly added to the deficit in two short years, and what Congressional Republicans are doing to ensure that the will of the people, as expressed in the overwhelming mandate of November, is upheld.

It took less than 12 hours for the State Democrat Party to pull out the political tricks rather than respond with real solutions here in Racine County. Flyers containing the false claim that "Paul Ryan's budget plan relies on massive cuts to Medicare, including a ration program" were distributed today in Racine County and throughout the 1st Congressional District yesterday.

"While the Parties may not agree with each other, it is up to us to put out reasoned responses not continue with scare tactics like those employed by the State Democrat Party this morning," stated Bill Folk, Racine County Republican Party Chairman. "By continuing to scare seniors and ignoring the fact that the program needs to be reformed for those that will need it in the future only continues to create a divide with no fix."

Congressman Ryan's Road Map for America's Future preserves Medicare in its current form for all people over the age of 55. This is stated plainly in the Road Map, which may be found at http://www.roadmap.republicans.budget.house.gov/

"The "vouchers" handed out by the Democrats are insulting and juvenile at best, and are based on their deliberate misrepresentation of the bill," commented Chairman Folk, adding "Maybe they should fully read what the Congressman is proposing before continuing the spread of false claims. The voters of Wisconsin deserve better, they deserve civility and truth, not insults and lies."
******

White House on three...

2011-01-26T08:21:00.005-06:00

"If the President don't want to come watch us in the Superbowl, guess what? We're going to see him!" See Charles Woodson's post-game speech following the NFC title game here

I'm still questioning the President's wisdom of picking the Bears over the Packers, then scheduling his first 2012 campaign stop a few days later in a city just a stone's throw from Green Bay. But then, I question the wisdom of just about everything Obama does!

Can't get too much of this...

2011-01-24T08:28:00.002-06:00

Meet Jim Ladwig - candidate for Racine County Executive

2011-01-22T09:02:00.002-06:00

Caledonia resident Jim Ladwig will be kicking off his campaign for County Executive next Thursday, January 27th, at a "meet and greet" at Infusinos.

All the details here:

Ladwig Campaign Kickoff

I had to do it!

2011-01-07T19:52:00.002-06:00

I had to post this so anytime I need a laugh, I can just refer back to this video!!

No challengers for incumbents; only candidates for open trustee seat

2011-01-04T17:02:00.000-06:00

Four seats on the Caledonia Village Board are up for (re)election this April, but residents will only be voting for a trustee for one seat.

As of the filing deadline today, there are no challengers for President Ron Coutts; Trustee #1 Kathy Burton; and Trustee #3 Kevin Wanggaard, which means they will automatically be reelected, unless a candidate launches a write-in campaign before the election.

The open seat for Trustee #5, being vacated by Bob Bradley, will be the sole contested race for Village Board on the ballot.

Duane Michalski, 4715 N. Green Bay Road, a truck driver for Performance Freight Systems in Milwaukee and James Dobbs, 5314 Agatha Turn, a Racine Police Officer will face off for the $6600/year part-time job.

This will be Michalski's second attempt at election, having run unsuccessfully for the Village Board in 2009; Dobbs is a newcomer to Caledonia politics.

The election is April 5, 2011.

Happy 2011!

2011-01-01T07:18:00.002-06:00

Want to meet some local conservative bloggers?

2010-12-31T08:47:00.002-06:00

Fred at Real Debate Wisconsin organizes a Christmas Party every year for SE Wisconsin bloggers and their readers. This year's party coincides with the Packer/Bear game which will be shown on the big screens at the party. All the info can be found at the link below, however,
IMPORTANT NOTE: THE STARTING TIME HAS BEEN MOVED BACK TO 2:30 P.M. to accommodate the change in the NFL schedule.

Drinking Right Christmas Party

Van Wanggaard takes the oath of office

2010-12-30T07:05:00.006-06:00

Wisconsin's new State Senator from the 21st District
December 29th, Racine County Couthouse: Van Wanggaard is administered the oath of office by the Honorable Judge Dennis Barry

Pardon the poor photo of Wanggaard, but the courtoom was jammed with people standing in the aisles and lining the halls outside the courtoom - this was the best shot I could get.

RTA opposes upcoming Unified spending referenda

2010-12-29T08:51:00.007-06:00

The Racine Taxpayer's Association has released a statement officially opposing the $128.5 million spending referenda that will be on the ballot this April.

If I recall the numbers correctly, the additional property tax this will (would) add to residents, based on a $100,000 home, far exceeds the amount Caledonians would have paid for their own school district while gaining complete local control, vs. the bone being thrown us by Unified in these referenda.

Personally, I believe RUSD is throwing everything they can at the public in hopes that anything will stick. In other words, asking for an all expenses paid trip to Tahiti while really hoping we'll feel their pain and be willing to at least pay the bus fair for a trip to Chicago!

Governor of Pennsylvania calls us a "nation of wussies"

2010-12-27T17:18:00.004-06:00

And I agree with him 100%

Responding to the cancellation by the NFL of Sunday night's Eagles/Vikings game because of weather, Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell called it like it is!

Ed Rendell calls delay of game a joke

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2010-12-24T07:39:00.003-06:00

Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!

2010-12-21T07:34:00.000-06:00

Caledonia company gets a piece of the tax credit pie

2010-12-19T22:19:00.002-06:00

Great article on a local success story. Congratulations to Rolfe Christensen (former fellow CDA member) and family of Wiscon Products and best wishes for continued success!

...Please Help

2010-12-16T07:36:00.001-06:00

Lake Parkway (794) expansion presentation on 12-14

2010-12-13T13:19:00.004-06:00

South Milwaukee Mayor Tom Zepecki is scheduled to speak at Caledonia's Village Board meeting tomorrow night to present information regarding the potential expansion of the Lake Parkway further south. South Milwaukee is one of the communities supporting the expansion.

What: Presentation by South Milwaukee Mayor Tom Zepecki regarding I-794 expansion
Where: East Side Community Center, 6156 Douglas Avenue
When: December 14th 7:00 p.m.

Milwaukee County has formed advisory committees to explore the feasibility of this expansion, which, with present plans, would have a southernmost stopping point of Hwy 100.

Milwaukee advisory committees are tentatively scheduled to meet again on January 24th.

Heading into a village board meeting?

2010-12-08T07:06:00.006-06:00

This rafter of turkeys was seen milling about outside East Side Community Center by a passerby who, according to village staff, apparently didn't realize the significance of the building. Wonder if they were waiting for a board meeting to begin?

The logic of the high-speed train supporters

2010-12-06T09:58:00.003-06:00

If you have the time and want a few laughs, this is well worth watching all the way to the end!

McReynolds won't seek another term as Racine County Exec

2010-12-01T12:47:00.005-06:00

The full press release issued today:

MEDIA RELEASE

December 1, 2010

RACINE COUNTY EXECUTIVE ANNOUNCES HE WILL NOT SEEK RE-ELECTION
RACINE- Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds today announced that he will not seek re-election to a third term. McReynolds was first elected County Executive in 2003 and re-elected in 2007. His current term ends in April 2011. The election for the office will be held on April 5, 2011, with a primary election, if necessary, on February 15, 2011.

By the end of his term McReynolds will have had nearly 40 years of public service: first as a high school teacher and coach at Union Grove Union High School, then 15 years as a deputy sheriff, 8 years as Racine County Sheriff, and 8 as County Executive.

McReynolds said, “I have always been touched by the confidence that Racine County’s citizens have placed in me. It has been a privilege to serve them as an elected official for nearly 16 years. It has also been a privilege to work—whether as Sheriff or County Executive—with the Racine County Board of Supervisors. They are an extraordinary group of public servants.”

McReynolds pointed to a number of accomplishments in the Sheriff’s Department during the time he led it:
• The Racine County Sheriff’s Department was one of the first sheriff’s departments in Wisconsin to employ Community-Oriented Policing;
• The Sheriff’s Department pioneered operation of a special patrol on the Interstate; and
• The Racine County Jail was the first in Wisconsin to have an in-house Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse program.

Crediting county staff with exceptional performance in the face of increasingly difficult fiscal conditions, McReynolds noted several areas in which, during his tenure, the county made strides through innovation and increased efficiencies:
- Control of county personnel-compensation costs through:
- Reduction in the number of county full-time equivalent (FTE) employees from more than 1207 in 2003 to fewer than 836 in 2010;
- Control of employee and retiree health care costs through wellness programs, operation of a county/city health clinic; and
- Maximization of use of part-time, temporary and contracted positions;
- Radical reduction of county juvenile corrections costs through development of the Alternatives to Corrections through Education (ACE) program; and
- Bringing about a consolidation of a countywide joint emergency dispatch system.

Above all, McReynolds pointed to the ability of county government to respond to the community’s need for the lowest possible tax burden. Faced with a $3 million current deficit in his first year as County Executive, the county used a variety of strategies, including rolling layoffs, to remedy the situation. Every budget presented by McReynolds has kept the percentage increase in the property tax levy below the percentage increase in total county property values due to new construction.

Said McReynolds, “Without the remarkable efforts of county staff—those responsible to me and those working for other elected officials—we’d never have been able to bring about the savings and efficiencies required to produce our budgets. Working with them has been an extremely rewarding experience.”
McReynolds has not announced his future plans.

######

WOW - what a classy guy!

2010-11-22T11:14:00.004-06:00

In case you didn't see the ad taken out by former Packer, Al Harris, in this weekend's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
Al Harris thank you note

To this date, one of my and Mr. CU's favorite Packer memories is from the January 2004 game against Mike Holmgren's Seattle Seahawks when Harris won the game when he ran back a Hasselbeck interception for an overtime TD!

Thanks for the memories Mr. Harris and good luck in the future.

165 MPH buses?

2010-11-16T21:09:00.003-06:00

Obama Replaces Costly High-Speed Rail Plan With High-Speed Bus Plan

Do states even have sovereign rights anymore?

2010-11-14T08:08:00.003-06:00

A little number crunching on the transit tax referendum

2010-11-05T06:07:00.010-06:00

Since the pro-rail propaganda machine began years ago, there's always been this assumption that the KRM commuter rail was opposed by the west end of the county, but heavily supported by citizens on the east side that might actually use the train. So much support was "assumed" in fact, that officials thought (hoped) additional taxes (no matter the taxing method) for funding and annual subsidies would meet with little resistance from east siders. Following that thought process, pro-rail officials actually removed the west end at one point from any potential taxing district to remove opposition.

So...when the results came in on Tuesday's advisory referendum to allow additional taxes for transit, even I was surprised. 80% countywide? How could that be? Certainly the pro-rail/tax vote from the east side would at least partially mitigate the strength of the opposition from the west side. I was even more surprised when I dug a little closer to see if the numbers bore out the previous "assumption" - you might be a little surprised as well.

Final vote numbers:
In favor: 12,580 (19.69% of votes cast on the referendum)
Opposed 51,317 (80.31% of votes cast on the referendum)

Of all the municipalities in Racine County, only ONE voted in favor: North Bay supported the referendum by one vote 74-73. Of all the wards in Racine, only one ward (out of 34) supported the referendum: Ward 1 54-52. Shockingly, to me anyway, the City of Racine (where a rail stop is planned) voted down the referendum 13,969 to 5,023!

Wind Point, which was always "assumed" to be a heavy supporter of rail and a community in which some of its strongest supporters reside, voted down the referendum 61% - 39%.

Even eastern Caledonia, a location where a rail stop was planned, voted down the referendum 77% at the East Side Community Center polling location; 80% at St. Andrew's and 84% at Prince Of Peace.

Granted, there was a 13% under vote for the transit referendum - 13% of those that cast a ballot declined to check an option on the referendum. However, even "assuming" every single one of those votes would have been in favor of the transit tax there's still a 67% opposition countywide.

What will our local and county officials do now that they've heard from the people? Will they try to brush off the results as part of the Republican wave that swept through the state? Try reckoning that with the fact that approximately 62% of the vote from the City of Racine went for Democrat candidates! What will be Mayor Dickert's reaction, particularly since he's up for re-election next spring? With 55% of registered voters in Racine County voicing their opinion on the referendum, guess I won't be the only one waiting and watching.

Here's the breakdown, by municipality, of "NO" votes on the referendum (these numbers are based on votes cast):

Town of Burlington: 88%
Town of Dover: 88%
Town of Norway: 90%
Town of Raymond: 89%
Town of Waterford: 91%
Town of Yorkville: 88%
Village of Caledonia: 80%
Village of Elmwood Park: 74%
Village of Mt. Pleasant: 79%
Village of North Bay: 49.66%
Village of Rochester: 87%
Village of Sturtevant: 83%
Village of Union Grove: 88%
Village of Wind Point: 61%
City of Burlington: 85%
City of Racine: 74%

51,316 to 12,578

2010-11-03T07:38:00.003-06:00

Latest figures show a vote of 80% in Racine County against additional taxes to fund transit (KRM) with vote totals in the 83% - 87% range against in areas of Kenosha County.

Do you think officials have gotten the message yet?

It's also obvious, after seeing the vote results, why the KRM proponents fought so hard to avoid a referendum.

"...the bigger the government, the worse the citizen..."

2010-11-02T06:32:00.003-06:00

Dennis Prager's thoughts on today's election...

H/T Dave W

Lake Parkway Extension - STUDY MEETING TOMORROW - UPDATED

2010-10-27T12:25:00.010-05:00

Updated 10-29-10 Thought I'd bring this comment to the forefront. Thanks, JW, for the info.

Unplugged, I attended this meeting there were about 15 people there. I talked to Kenneth Yunker, Director of SEWRPC, who is on this board about the lack of Racine area representation. He mentioned no one from Racine area has contacted the group and the Milwaukee area requested the study. The current plan is to end 794 at Ryan Road and Pennsylvania-how would HWY 32 handle all this traffic when the 2008 traffic count was 16,000 plus on HWY 32 near Ryan?

I mentioned how the Racine County Executive was on record supporting the 794 extension. Mr. Yunker said he will contact the Racine County Director of Public Works and see if they would like to get involved in the planning (the next meeting is set for late January in St Francis). I mentioned that the 15 mile trip to the Cudahy library took 26 minutes along Hwy 32 (from near the Racine Zoo) and that they should go look at the traffic near the power plant in Oak Creek.

He also indicated it was Caledonia that wanted Hwy 38 expanded west of the railroad tracks. I mentioned why not just bring 794 down to Hwy K on that same route.

The Mayor of South Milwaukee talked of how 794 would open up economic development in the area, I couldn't agree more. He in fact mentioned a potential link of 794 to Hwy 31. The mayors of these cities see the big picture. It is time for our leaders to do the same. If not, elect new ones that do.

JW

-----------------------------------------------------------------
A CU reader has sent information regarding the latest on the Lake Parkway Extension. Milwaukee is going forward with both advisory and technical committees to study the feasibility/logistics. Unfortunately, not a single person from Racine County sits on either of these committees. It's very possible this extension could stop abruptly at Caledonia's doorstep, rather than extend into the county and provide a viable link for transportation and endless possibilities for economic development.

The advisory committee will be meeting tomorrow if anyone is interested:
Thursday, October 28, 2010, 1:30 PM
Cudahy Family Library
3500 Library Drive
Cudahy, Wisconsin

For additional information on the study and the individuals sitting on the committees, follow these links.

Lake Parkway Extension Study

Lake Parkway Extension Study Advisory Committee

High-Speed Rail: Worth The Price? - Milwaukee News Story - WISN Milwaukee

2010-10-27T07:48:00.001-05:00

Florida's high speed rail has stalled; anticipated fares could triple; yet our governor keeps pushing to waste nearly a billion dollars - is it worth the price? Interesting article at WISN.

High-Speed Rail: Worth The Price? - Milwaukee News Story - WISN Milwaukee

"We're going to punish our enemies..."

2010-10-26T17:58:00.003-05:00

In a radio interview that aired on Univision yesterday, Obama upped the rhetoric another notch, this time trying to encourage Hispanics to get out the vote:

"If Latinos sit out the election instead of saying, "We’re going to punish our enemies and we’re gonna reward our friends who stand with us on issues that are important to us," if they don’t see that kind of upsurge in voting in this election, then I think it’s going to be harder, and that’s why I think it’s so important that people focus on voting on November 2."

I've read a lot of opinion pieces on the latest controversial quote from Obama - the president that's appearing less and less presidential and more and more divisive radical activist by the minute - and think this one, from American Thinker takes the words right out of my mouth.

One question on this for Obama: for all the Latino immigrants that went through the process legally, have become productive American citizens and are also opposed to (resentful of) endless government handouts for illegal immigrants - are they also to be considered enemies, President Obama?

How to wash a sweatshirt

2010-10-25T08:24:00.002-05:00

One day, a housework-challenged husband decided to wash his
sweatshirt.

Soon after he stepped into the laundry room, he shouted to his wife, "What setting do I use on the washing machine?"

"It depends", she replied. "What does it say on your shirt??"

He yelled back, "Go Vikings!!"

She replied-"Use hot water, a box of Tide, and four cups of bleach".

H/T Dave W

AMERICAN HERO

2010-10-22T21:29:00.002-05:00

Obama: "there's no such thing as shovel-ready projects"

2010-10-14T09:39:00.002-05:00

Oh, really?

Wanggaard and Lehman square off on Mike Gousha's program

2010-10-08T14:31:00.003-05:00

Wanggaard & Lehman to Appear on "UpFront with Mike Gousha"

WHAT:
UpFront with Mike Gousha

WHEN:
Sunday, October 10th
9:00am & 11:05pm

WHERE:
WISN-TV, Channel 12, Milwaukee

WHO:
State Senate candidate Van Wanggaard & incumbent State Senator John Lehman sit down with Mike Gousha to discuss issues facing Racine & Wisconsin, and the race for the 21st State Senate District seat.

KRM referendum

2010-10-07T08:39:00.003-05:00

Don't forget about the KRM advisory referendum on the November 2nd ballot:

Should any new tax to support transit or rail services, such as a sales tax or local vehicle registration fee, be permitted in any part of Racine County?

Also remember, that any tax enacted to support rail will be overseen by an unelected, unaccountable board and the phrase "Katy bar the door" keeps running through my head!

2011 Budget has rosier outlook

2010-09-29T09:22:00.003-05:00

Only a year ago, our Village board was grappling with the reality of a $600,000 - $800,000 deficit while heading into the 2010 budget review process.

Yesterday, however, Larry Borchert, finance director, distributed what he described as a "first blush" 2011 General Fund Budget of $13.1 million that, at least for the time being, is balanced!

Notable items:

- This budget represents a 3% levy increase - maximum allowed by the state.

- All union employees will be receiving a 2.75% pay increase.

- The Village will lose $300,000 in funding from the expiration of the WeEnergies grant for additional police/fire (though I believe we will be receiving shared revenue now that the new power plant is online - don't have that figure yet.)

- The budget includes funding for a new Police Chief, Assistant Police Chief, but does not replace an open Lieutenant position or the Community Policing Officer position vacated by the retirement of Officer Tom Knitter.

- The budget does not include funding for an Assistant Fire Chief, or replacement of another open position.

- Officials are estimating a 10% increase in health care costs - they won't have exact numbers until November.

President Coutts has set a target date of November 17th for the public budget hearing, with release of the final budget to the press by November 1st.

Individual departmental budgets will be reviewed at meetings on October 6, 11, 12, 13, 18 and 20th. Those meetings will be open to the public.

2010-09-11T07:51:00.000-05:00

Wanggaard endorsed by NRA

2010-09-09T08:43:00.001-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Dan Romportl
SEPTEMBER 09, 2010 Campaign Manager
dan@voteforvan.com

Wanggaard Receives NRA Endorsement & “A” Rating

[RACINE] – Today the National Rifle Association announced its endorsement of
state senate candidate Van Wanggaard, and awarded him an “A” rating based on
his “strong and vocal support of our Right to Keep and Bear Arms.”

Wanggaard, a lifelong member of the NRA and Racine County Line Rifle Club
board member, expressed appreciation to the NRA for the endorsement:

“I have always been a strong advocate for protecting our 2nd Amendment
rights, and I am proud to receive this endorsement,” Wanggaard said. “I
hope to earn the trust of Racine County sportsmen and gun owners as I
continue my campaign against a left-wing, anti-gun incumbent.

“The right to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our property has been
under attack recently, and I pledge to fight tooth-and-nail to uphold our
Constitutional freedoms as Racine County’s next state senator.”
Wanggaard is running against incumbent senator John Lehman for the 21st State
Senate District seat.

Lehman has voted against concealed carry legislation three times, and received
an “F” rating from the NRA in 2006.

###

Going for a car ride in Lake Michigan

2010-08-23T08:21:00.003-05:00

(click to enlarge)
Saw this couple late Saturday afternoon heading north in their Amphicar from the Racine harbor...maybe they were taking a shortcut to the Zoo Car show??

Candidate forum for Racine County Sheriff

2010-08-11T15:07:00.004-05:00

click to enlarge
At this point, 4 of the 5 candidates have confirmed they will attend.
Only Jeffrey Gerrietts has yet to respond.

Racine GOP opening 2010 campaign headquarters

2010-08-03T11:35:00.005-05:00

For Immediate Release
August 3, 2010
Contact: Shawn Smith, Victory Center Coordinator, 262-705-1910
Bill Folk, Chairman, 414-975-3600

Racine County Republican Party Announces the Opening of Victory Center...will have an Open House for Victory Center on Thursday, August 5.

On Thursday, August 5 from 6-8 pm the Racine County Republican Party will officially open its campaign Victory Center, 829 S Green Bay Rd, as part of the Wisconsin Republican Party 2010 Victory Program.

"We are proud of what local Republicans do for conservatives throughout the state," said Bill Folk, Racine County GOP Chairman. "The state party incorporating Racine into their Victory Program shows that Racine is expected to have a major impact on this year's election."

Shawn Smith will be the Victory Center Coordinator and as a Racine native is excited to come home to help Racine this election season.
"Racine has proven to be a great source of volunteers and with their help will hit our call and door totals on a regular basis," said Smith.

If you'd like to volunteer at the Victory Center, please contact Shawn Smith at 262-705-1910 or leave a message for the Racine GOP at 262-864-1010.
Office hours will be:
Monday - Saturday: 9:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am - 9:00pm
******

Funnel cloud over Caledonia? Updated

2010-07-23T08:08:00.005-05:00

UPDATED: Caledonia 4-Wheelers appears to have caught on video the same wall cloud that spawned what I saw. Think he had a little closer view. Make sure you turn the volume up for the full effect!
Oak Creek Storm Cell

(click to enlarge)
This photo is looking north toward Oak Creek. When I took a quick look outside after the tornado warnings were issued for northern Racine County (and saw the sky getting very black), I spotted what looked like a funnel cloud - but I'm a a very untrained observer. By the time I ran into the house and grabbed the camera, it seemed to be lifting back into the clouds. Anyone have any expertise with this? Funnel cloud or not - I made a hasty retreat into the basement!

Caledonia hosting forum for Sheriff candidates

2010-07-20T14:41:00.003-05:00

East Side Community Center will be the site for a candidate forum sponsored by the Racine Taxpayer's Association. The forum will be Thursday, August 19th at 7 p.m. All the candidates will be invited to participated. More details will follow.

Common sense prevails in search for new chief

2010-07-16T08:25:00.003-05:00

Kudos to the Village Finance Committee (Coutts, Wishau and Wanggaard) for essentially putting the kibosh on an $18,000 proposal from our Police and Fire Commission to hire consultants for a police chief candidate search...particularly given the fact no efforts had even been initiated by the Commission to find candidates on their own.

Further kudos to Commission member Dave Wyatt for being the lone voice of fiscal restraint. I think it would have been interesting to hear our Village Board rationalize that expenditure at budget time if we're experiencing another shortfall.

Should the commission's independent search efforts fail to produce qualified candidates, then would be the time to seek outside resources for assistance, but hopefully not to the tune of $18,000.

Vote fraud may have handed Senate Democrats the Supermajority

2010-07-13T08:14:00.005-05:00

So, vote fraud could sway an election. Nah, who'd thunk it?!

Felons Voting Illegally May Have Put Franken Over the Top in Minnesota, Study Finds

By Ed Barnes

July 12, 2010
FoxNews.com

A study finds that at least 341 convicted felons voted illegally in the election that made former "Saturday Night Live" comedian Al Franken a U.S. senator in 2008.

The six-month election recount that turned former "Saturday Night Live" comedian Al Franken into a U.S. senator may have been decided by convicted felons who voted illegally in Minnesota's Twin Cities.

That's the finding of an 18-month study conducted by Minnesota Majority, a conservative watchdog group, which found that at least 341 convicted felons in largely Democratic Minneapolis-St. Paul voted illegally in the 2008 Senate race between Franken, a Democrat, and his Republican opponent, then-incumbent Sen. Norm Coleman.

Continue reading here.

California vs. Arizona

2010-07-08T09:10:00.003-05:00

California:

The Governor of California is jogging with his dog along a nature trail. A coyote jumps out, bites the Governor and attacks his dog.

1. The Governor starts to intervene, but reflects upon the movie "Bambi" and then realizes he should stop; the coyote is only doing what is natural.

2. He calls animal control. Animal Control captures coyote and bills the State $200 testing it for diseases and $500 for relocating it.

3. He calls a veterinarian. The vet collects the dead dog and bills the State $200 testing it for diseases.

4. The Governor goes to hospital and spends $3,500 getting checked for diseases from the coyote and on getting his bite wound bandaged.

5. The running trail gets shut down for 6 months while Fish & Game conducts a $100,000 survey to make sure the area is free of dangerous animals.

6. The Governor spends $50,000 in state funds implementing a "coyote awareness" program for residents of the area.

7. The State Legislature spends $2 million to study how to better treat rabies and how to permanently eradicate the disease throughout the world.

8. The Governor's security agent is fired for not stopping the attack somehow and for letting the Governor attempt to intervene.

9. Additional cost to State of California : $75,000 to hire and train a new security agent with additional special training re: the nature of coyotes.

10. PETA protests the coyote's relocation and files suit against the State.

Arizona:

The Governor of Arizona is jogging with her dog along a nature trail. A Coyote jumps out and attacks her dog.

1. The Governor shoots the coyote with her State-issued pistol and keeps jogging. The Governor has spent $0.50 on a .45 ACP hollow point cartridge.

2. The Buzzards eat the dead coyote.

And that's why California is broke.

H/T Dave W

Ron Johnson - Who dat?

2010-06-30T08:18:00.005-05:00

Who exactly is this Ron Johnson that's challenging Russ Feingold for U.S. Senate?

If you haven't had a chance to meet Mr. Johnson and would like to, he will be in the Kenosha area tomorrow evening at the Kenosha Republican Party's Pints & Politics to discuss his political views. This is a very informal event and you will be able to ask questions of Mr. Johnson.

What: Guest Speaker U.S. Senate Candidate Ron Johnson
Where: Birchwood Grill
7515 125th Avenue (Hwy 50 and I-94 across from the Brat Stop)
When: Thursday, July 1
7:00 p.m.

This event is free and open to the public. Food and beverages will not be provided.

For more information, e-mail kenosha_countygop@yahoo.com

State Senate candidate wants answers from Obama on job losses

2010-06-29T07:04:00.004-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JUNE 29, 2010
Contact: Van Wanggaard
(262) 930-6503

Wanggaard: President Obama Owes Racine Some Answers

[RACINE] – With President Obama scheduled to hold a town hall meeting in Racine on Wednesday, State Senate candidate Van Wanggaard expressed his desire for an honest explanation regarding the federal polices that have killed thousands of jobs in southeastern Wisconsin:

“It’s nice to know that the current administration realizes Racine County exists. As jobs leave southeastern Wisconsin faster than Air Force One on its way back to DC, I hope the President uses this trip to answer questions regarding the Bucyrus situation and Chrysler’s abandonment of Kenosha for Mexico."

“These two unfortunate situations are similar in that the federal government played a direct role in facilitating massive job loss. What’s more upsetting is that in both cases, the administration displayed a disturbing attitude of disregard for the affected communities and our elected representatives who demanded answers."

“President Obama, as the leader of the Executive Branch, is accountable for these ridiculous and devastating decisions, and he owes Racine and its neighboring counties an explanation that goes further than just placing blame on his predecessor.”

###

Milwaukee County Supervisor wants to boycott Arizona but doesn't know where it is

2010-06-25T07:47:00.008-05:00

Democrat Milwaukee County Supervisor Peggy West claims to have googled Arizona SB1070, maybe she should have googled map of the United States instead.

H/T Real Debate

Satellite image of Gulf Oil slick

2010-06-21T07:43:00.002-05:00

TobyToons | Political Cartoons and More