Local News - June 2008 - WegoWeb.net
Source... Click on the title to read the article at its original source.
30 Aug  
AG clears Bednar-Clemens of criminal wrongdoing
""I concluded that while some of the behavior was unusual, and showed questionable judgment, I was unable to conclude that any of the conduct was criminal," Korte wrote... "As there is no allegation of criminal conduct, I will take no action in regard to that matter," Korte wrote in the second report.  Wiita also expressed concern over the Fisher Lake-Lake of the Falls land swap deal."
Midgets win third straight over Devils
"The Midgets hadn't won three straight in the series since taking four in a row from 1948-51.  They won Friday by coming up big in the second quarter and late in the third quarter, despite not having eight players due to suspension, including six with starting experience."
Mercer runners place at Prentice
"Mercer junior Kyle Hoffmeister finished fifth at the Timm's Hill cross country race in Prentice, Wis., Thursday."
Tribal Injunction Denied
"Victoria Doud, the Tribal President, says, "Well, I can't speak for the whole council, but I'm pleased, relieved, this is holding- the public officials are representing our people to hire standards and I think it's a good thing for the tribe all around."  Tribal members say they're upset the injunction was denied because they say there are some major changes within the tribe which need to take place.
  Grant money gone for tech students
"Students still applying for college this fall could lose out on financial aid because the state has run out of grant money for them... An estimated 4,000 low-income technical college students applying for aid after that date are being put on a waiting list, but the agency's executive secretary, Connie Hutchison, says it's unlikely they will get grants."
Habitat For Humanity Northwoods Finishes 15th Home
"This is the 15th home Habitat For Humanity Northwoods has built since it started in 1998.  If you're interested in volunteering, you can call Habitat For Humanity Northwoods at (715) 356-7203 or click on the link below.  Related Weblinks: Learn More About Habitat For Humanity Northwoods"
Electric vehicles off to slow start
"NEVS are covered, four-wheel vehicles with a windshield, doors, seat belts and other protection. They must have a top attainable speed of at least 20 miles per hour but not more than 25 mph. They're supposed to be able to run 30 miles on one electric charge, which can take six to eight hours."
State population approaches 5.7 million
"Most of the gain - 187,300 — is attributable to births outpacing deaths in the state, the department said.  The remaining almost 124,000 increase is due to net migration - more people moving into the state than leaving."
Cooler spring means smaller Wis. wild rice harvest
"Experts from the state Department of Natural Resources and the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission say the cool, late spring likely means many wild rice seeds remained dormant in lake bottoms and did not germinate."
Economic development all about IT, UW prof says
""Epic Systems hires more people every month than all the biotech companies in Wisconsin combined," said Guri Sohi, past chairman of the UW-Madison computer science department.  In fact, Sohi said, the Verona-based medical software developer is often mistaken for a biotech company by those who don't know DNA from IT."
GOP Retains Pro-Life Plank That McCain Criticized - Cybercast News
"“We support a human life amendment to the Constitution, and we endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment's protections apply to unborn children. "
Senator Stevens and VP Candidate Sarah Palin
Although Sarah Palin introduced herself to the nation as the person who killed the famous earmark, "the bridge to nowhere," this 2006 approved campaign ad paints a different, more friendly, relationship with that earmark's sponsor. - Bob
Getting Real About Palin - TPM
"The available evidence now suggests that she 1) tried to have an ex-relative fired from his job for personal reasons, something that was clearly inappropriate, and perhaps illegal, though possibly understandable in human terms, 2) fired a state official for not himself acting inappropriately by firing the relative, 3) lied to the public about what happened and 4) continues to lie about what happened."
McCain Goes Affirmative Action - Jack McAfferty on CNN
[I don't know how this is going to go over with middle aged white men who have, at some time, been passed over or been seen as being passed over for a less qualified female or minority worker, or with white women who have lost a job to the younger, sexier new girl on the job, but I think John McCain has pulled a attractive, fresh chippy from the secretarial pool ... and that scares me.  Saying that Miss Wisalla 1984 is the most qualified candidate in the Republican party for VP doesn't pass the smell test. - Bob]
US Senator Kohl to Visit Orion Energy Systems - Manufacturing Business Technology - Oak Brook,IL

 
29 Aug  
Happy Birthday, John McSame. 
Here's your candles ... that is really old.  :-)

iiiiiiiii iiiiiiiii iiiiiiiii iiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiii iiiiiiiii iiiiiiiii iiiiiiiii

Hopefully they will throw him a party at one of his seven mansions. - Bob
Mercer School ready to feed mind, body
"The scent of fresh paint and new carpeting, stacks of new books and a bank of new computers await inquiring minds in the new school library.  Superintendent Jeff Ehrhardt said the school gained two students, for an enrollment of 163 in pre-kindergarten through grade 12 to start the year."
New faces in new places
"Three new teachers and two cooks join the Mercer K-12 School staff for the 2008-09 year... Science teacher Kopka, of Butternut, will complete the student teaching she needs for her teaching credentials on the job at Mercer.  She has a degree in fish and wildlife management and comes from a family of educators."
Obama rouses local supporters, not critics -
"Obama highlighted the issues many of his local supporters said they believe in -- bringing an end to the war in Iraq, providing health care for all, tax cuts for the middle class and an ambitious alternative energy plan to end dependence on Middle East oil."
Elections watchdog wants to regulate political Supreme Court ads
"“I think it called into question the independence of the judiciary,” Government Accountability Board Chairman Thomas Cane said of the recent round of Supreme Court ads. “It also called into question the character of judges. . . . One of the concerns you have is, are you going to have judges who are elected because of their political views instead of being independent judges?"
Slow construction may limit taxes
"The new construction figures are important because under the state-imposed levy caps, municipalities are permitted to raise their levies by 2% or by the percentage increase in the tax base caused by new construction."
Board targets political 'issue ads'
"Cane, a retired chief court of appeals judge, and other board members said the public deserves to know who funds the ads because they are viewed by the public as campaign ads.  And board members said they worry about the integrity of elections, particularly for nonpartisan judicial races, given the millions of dollars spent on issue ads during the last two Supreme Court races."
Conservative Christian Leader and Past Critic of McCain says Palin a Strong Choice
"Conservative Christian leader, Rev. Rob Schenck (pronounced SHANK), who is present at the Nutter Center at Wright State University as a VIP guest of the  McCain campaign, made the following statement on the anticipated announcement of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as Mr. McCain's running mate:"
MSNBC Host Rips AP Reporter's Analysis of Obama Speech - Editor and Publisher
"It is analysis that strikes me as having borne no resemblance to the speech you and I just watched. None whatsoever. And for it to be distributed by the lone national news organization in terms of wire copy to newspapers around the country and web sites is a remarkable failure of that news organization."
 

28 Aug

  
Mercer man claims police protection not adequate
"Undersheriff Joy Kohegyi of Mercer spends about 98 percent of her working shifts in the Mercer area, according to Lt. Tony Furyk.  In July 2007, Sheriff Robert Bruneau issued a directive that road patrol deputies on the afternoon and midnight shifts are to be in the southern part of Iron County, in the Mercer-Springstead areas, for six hours of their eight-hour shifts."
Mercer man cited after marijuana plants found
"According to the complaint filed in Iron County Circuit Court on Wednesday, on July 23 GIANT members Lt. Tony Furyk, of the Iron County Sheriff's Department, and Hurley Police Sgt. Chris Colassaco found several marijuana plants in and around Zeivel's home, along with drug paraphernalia.  A marijuana plant that measured 51 inches tall by 26 inches wide was "in plain view in a white bucket against the outside wall of the home, about 15 feet from the door," the complaint said."
Erickson wins title at Eagle Bluff
"Scott Erickson won the Eagle Bluff Club championship flight final match Sunday over Jeff Tenlen... Wally Bruneau defeated Ralph Pertile for the Senior Club championship."
FinnFest to sail Alaskan seas
"Landscape geography professor Arnold Alanen, University of Wisconsin-Madison, who researched Sitka for the National Park Service, will give background lectures for the Sitka visit and assist with the tours."
5 Tribal Members Challenge Election Rules
"The tribal council adopted a new election code last week that prohibits candidates who have been convicted of crimes, removed from office or have engaged in what leaders determine are "immoral or illegal acts" against the tribal government."
Merit Gear Responds to Doyle DNC Comment
"Donald Clemins, President of the Merit Gear Corporation, says, "Here we've got a small company, 153 people in Antigo, Wisconsin and we're mentioned on the national news. It's really pretty neat for us. People in our shop are really excited about it."  Clemins says the expansion project will double their operation, create 45 new jobs and save an additional 105 jobs."
25% of Voters Fail Checks in New System
"Local clerks have entered 19,470 applications into the database. As of Tuesday, information on 4,350 of them, or 22 percent, hasn't matched information kept on the applicants at the state Department of Transportation or at the Social Security Administration."
Diverse paths lead bikers to Milwaukee
"Argel and Bastian are expected to arrive today with a group of Harley riders, many of them veterans, riding in honor of Derek Argel. They're trying to raise $105,000 for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a nonprofit organization started in 1980 to provide college tuition money and other assistance for children of military special forces killed in combat or training accidents."
State Debate: Lies about Obama a new low
"Punch "Obama" and "Antichrist" into Google, and you'll find more than 1.1 million results... Distortions of the truth are troubling. Outright lies of this magnitude invoke fear for both the immediate and long-term future of this nation."
Operation Rescue Condemns Police Brutality Against Peaceful Pro-Life Teens at DNC
"Two young girls were brutally attacked by police Wednesday evening without warning as they were chalking the sidewalk with pro-life messages outside the Westin Hotel, where Democratic Presidential Nominee Barack Obama is staying. The girls were knocked to the ground, kneed in the back, handcuffed, and painfully dragged away."
Good Speeches at Democratic Convention that the networks have ignored
 

27 Aug

  
Celebrare!
""It's all about the food," said chamber president Char Mussatti. "It's going to be better than ever this year because of the interest in the historic downtown area and our recently completed beautification project. People want to spend time in their downtown."  There'll be music, street dancing and outdoor dining throughout the day."
Demolition landfill gets nod from council
"As for the dust control, landfill owner OEI has agreed to pay the city an additional $5,000 per month for additional work and $8,000 twice during the lifespan of the landfill, which is expected to be about 10 years."
Gov. Doyle Speaks at Democratic National Convention
"During his speech he told the crowd Arizona Sen. John McCain offers only failed Republican policies. He told delegates at the Democratic National Convention they need to revive the spirit of John F. Kennedy and move past eight years that favored the right and ignored everyone else. "
City has nation’s 7th highest poverty rate
"Nearly one in four residents of Milwaukee lived in poverty in 2007 according to U.S. Census estimates released Tuesday. The city had the seventh highest poverty rate - 24.4% - among places with a population of more than 250,000."
List of troubled banks growing
"Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. data released Tuesday show 117 banks and thrifts were considered to be in trouble in the second quarter, up from 90 in the prior quarter and the biggest tally since mid-2003.... On average, 13 percent of banks that make the list fail."
True Republicans drawn to Obama 
"But if you go all the way back, to a little white schoolhouse located just off the main street in this quiet eastern Wisconsin college town, you will find roots that look very much like those described by Leach on the day that he endorsed the first African-American candidate ever nominated for the presidency by a major American party."
I Was a Stranger - Chriatianity Today
"In verses dealing with welcoming the alien and the stranger, there's no distinction about how they arrived in the country. It's sad that some of the strongest anti-immigration sentiment is coming from conservative Christians who are otherwise "pro-life.""
Denver Police Brutally Arrest Code Pink Protester - Feminist Peace Network
"The video shows an officer quickly shoving Forrest with the length of his baton, forcing her to the ground with a smack. Later, as she was speaking with reporters, the video shows police coming behind her and dragging her away."
Bush, Cheney and Rice; Hitler, Himmler and Goebbels - Pravda.ru
"If this pig-headed trio of crypto-fascists was to focus on its own country’s deeds, then nobody would have anything to say. It is, after all, up to the people of the USA to vote for whoever they wish to lead them, deceive them, act against their interests, get the country hated in the international community, screw up its economy...whatever turns you on."
26 Aug  
County board heads south for annual Mercer meeting
"At the request of supervisors from the southern part of the county, the board meets in Mercer once each year. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at the Mercer Community Center.  Board members face a light agenda that includes the adoption of five resolutions."
Brew Fest set for Sept. 8
"The Mercer Lions will hold its annual Brew Fest and Indoor Tailgate Party Monday, Sept. 8 beginning at 5 p.m. at the Wolf's Den in the Great Northern Motel, Mercer.  Local breweries will provide a sampling of a variety of beers during the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings football game on TV."
Governor to stress economy in convention talk
"Doyle said the Bush administration has ignored a broad range of pocketbook issues important to voters, such as keeping manufacturing jobs in the country, the rising cost of college and the tax burden on the middle class. And he said the Republican presidential candidate has stood with Bush on the majority of those issues."
Goose hunt to go forward in Washburn
""We've got to do something to lower the geese that are there," said City Council President John Baregi, who's been designated to lead the hunt. "This is not going to solve the problem; the only thing we can do is bring the problem down to a point where it is livable.""
Council to discuss, possibly vote on Superfund cooperation
"The resolution does not endorse any plan for cleaning the site, but instead seeks to establish ground rules for collaboration between the city and Xcel Energy.  A draft resolution of the framework lists broad objectives that could be achieved through cooperation, such as ensuring a protective cleanup; managing and sequencing of remedial and city redevelopment activities; and leveraging grants and other funding sources for the city."
Forest Protection Ruling 
"The Department of Natural Resources said Gustafson failed to notify the state that he was harvesting a raw forest product and ticketed him.  But the Third District Court of Appeals said Thursday that not every area with trees or bushes qualifies as a forest."
  Lawyers spar over $200 million transferred from medical malpractice fund
"The Wisconsin Medical Society told a Dane County judge Monday that he should order the state to restore $200 million to a medical malpractice fund that legislators tapped to shore up the state's budget."
SAT scores stay at lowest level in nearly a decade
"But the College Board, which owns the exam, attributes the lower averages of late to a more positive development: a broader array of students are taking the test, from more first-generation college students to a record number of students - nearly one in seven - whose family income qualifies them to take the test for free."
SAT, Advanced Placement scores up in state
"The biggest scoring jump was in the math part of the SAT, where 3,522 state students scored an average 604 points, six points higher than in 2006-07. Writing scores went up an average two points to 577 while critical reading scores stayed the same at an average of 587 points.  The state averages were far above the national SAT scores."
13 Pro-lifers Arrested at DNC Convention; 2 Roman Catholic Priests, 1 Baptist Pastor; 9 Men and 4 Women go to Jail - Christian News Network
"While being arrested, they said: "Every Christian voter needs to see Obama and Biden for what they are – the most strident supporters of child-killing ever seen in a presidential race."  "Abortion is murder and no faithful Christian, Catholic or Protestant, can vote for Obama…its that simple." "
 

25 Aug

  
DNR sets 2008 waterfowl seasons
"Waterfowl hunters will again enjoy a full 60-day Wisconsin duck hunting season in 2008, including an increase in allowable wood duck harvest and an additional 10 days of dove hunting. Due to actions by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), hunters will not be able to harvest any canvasback ducks in 2008 and bag limits for scaup will be limited compared to past seasons."
A great 10 years
""This place is really something special," Obey said. "It explains the geological history of the lake, it explains the environmental impact of the lake, it explains the cultural history of the area and it also serves as a terrific tool for economic prosperity because it attracts so many people.""
ABC crowns points champs
"Bill Byholm flexed some muscle in his new “hot rod” after he took the lead of the 20-lap WISSOTA modified headliner and ran off to his fourth feature win of the season. But the guy who finished just behind him — Jeff Spacek of Phillips — won the season-long war with Byholm, laying claim to his fifth ABC points championship and third in the mods"
Species Threatened 
"But the Department of Natural Resources says construction of the line in Vilas, Forest and Florence counties probably won't jeopardize the existence or recovery of the wood turtle.  The agency says the turtles can be found at six locations along the line's 49-mile route and some could be accidentally killed whenn poles are installed."
Election Code Change
"The upcoming election in Lac du Flambeau is just about one week away.  But some tribal members say the current council changed election procedures.  This means five of the hopeful nominees are officially removed from the ballot."
Cheeseheads in China: The Final Tally
"How did Wisconsin do?  Five gold, one silver, two bronze.  That's the total medal count of the 16 athletes with a connection to Wisconsin who competed in, and the 19 who traveled to, Beijing for the 2008 Olympic Summer Games."
Harley's 105th Party Coming
"Few companies have customers as dedicated as those of Harley-Davidson.  That's why the motorcycle maker can put on a four-day 105th anniversary celebration, and expect more than 100,000 people to show up and rumble the city where the storied company is based."
State tries to educate drivers about roundabouts
"As the state Department of Transportation continues its promotion of roundabouts, more and more drivers, both student and veteran, are pulling up to the circular intersections for the first time. To help ease drivers' fears, officials at the DOT said they're making a concentrated effort to educate drivers about roundabouts in whatever way possible - from including a diagram in all 1.3 million copies of last year's official state map to distributing DVDs to all state driving schools."
Dip in Labor Day travel expected, AAA says 
"High gas and food prices, the credit crunch, and other economic factors are affecting many families," said AAA Wisconsin Regional President Tom Frymark. "As a result, fewer people will travel for the Labor Day holiday."
James Dobson Calls McCain An Unethical Adulterer, Compares Him To Bill Clinton
"The biggest problem that Dobson would have in backing McCain -- which he has recently hinted at -- is that the reasons he castigated him for in 2000 -- adultery, Keating Five, ethics, violent temper, profane behavior, courting the Log Cabin Republicans, stem cell research, and his acceptance of gambling and alcohol money -- haven't gone away."
Smear Ad
If somebody sent me a link to this thinking that I would believe anything from it or that it would cause me to vote for a Republican, I would be thoroughly insulted.  Why hasn't McCain denounced it?  I hope that anyone who views this ad holds it against those who hope to gain from such a smear, those who quietly tolerate this behavior among their friends and followers. - Bob
 

23&24 Aug

  
Warden shoots wolf-dog dead in Montreal
""We decided on Thursday that it was a public nuisance. Based on its strange behavior, we euthanized the animal," Windt said. "In my opinion it presented danger to people in the neighborhood, especially young children."  Windt said the animal appeared to be a wolf-dog hybrid, but that had not been determined."
Doyle, cabinet brings Madison, major announcements to Northwoods
"Wags have long regarded state capital Madison as "76 square miles, surrounded by reality."  Searching for a dose of reality outside the rarified confines of the Madison beltway, Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle and a large state capital entourage swung through the Northwoods last week as part of his administration's sixth annual "Up North Tour.""
Forest Firewood
"The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is banning firewood from the southern two-thirds of Wisconsin, not just wood from out of state.
Forest officials say they're taking the firewood ban a step further because the destructive emerald ash borer has recently been found in Ozaukee and Washington counties. "
City considers battery cars
"They now await the City Council's decision Sept. 10 on a proposed ordinance that would allow anyone with an electric vehicle to drive it on Wausau streets with speed limits of 35 mph or lower. The vehicle's top speed is 25 mph.  "We don't see any problem with these vehicles being on the street," said Wausau Police Lt. Dennis Saager."
Employers say gas prices hindering efforts to land, keep talent
"The online survey of 415 human resources professionals by MRA-The Management Association Inc., found that of those who said fuel costs were affecting staffing, 19% lost employees because of commuting distances; 33% had difficulty recruiting job seekers who didn't live nearby; and 4% attributed increased absenteeism to gas prices."
EPA fails to collect chemical safety data
"Many companies, like Milport, have not bothered to come up with the information. As a result, the EPA hasn't yielded a single document on this compound, the Journal Sentinel found.  The failure of the EPA's High Production Volume Challenge to make good on its promises is the latest example of how the agency's lax policies favor chemical makers over public demand for information."
Cedarburg teacher fired for viewing porn takes case to Wisconsin Supreme Court
"As is common in many labor disputes involving union contracts, Zellner fought his termination by taking his case to an arbitrator. After conducting a hearing, the arbitrator ruled that Zellner should have been reprimanded and not fired, and he ordered the School Board to rehire him.  But the board refused, so Zellner went to court."
Wis. Justice Department won't face sanctions
"The state Department of Justice didn't follow state hiring practices when Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen's campaign field director was hired to a gang analyst post, but the mistakes weren't intentional, employment officials said Friday."
Wis. officials refuse to modify mercury rules
"State officials said Friday they won't make the changes Republican legislators want in new standards to reduce emissions of toxic mercury into the air.  The Department of Natural Resources has proposed rules calling for utilities to slash mercury emissions by 90 percent by 2015. Utilities can extend that deadline to 2021 if they can achieve a 70 percent reduction in mercury, an 85 percent reduction in sulfur dioxide and a 50 percent reduction in nitrogen oxide by 2015."
UW System audit says mental health needs outpacing resources 
"The report by the UW System Office of Operations Review and Audit found that on campuses which kept statistics, about 6.3 percent of students (more than 9,500) attended individual, couples or group therapy sessions in the year that ended June 30, 2007. UW-Madison had the highest percentage, with 9.1 percent of all students receiving counseling services."
Kohl hails O'Biden ticket 
"Barack Obama could not have picked a stronger candidate as his running mate," announced U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl, D-Milwaukee. "Senator Biden has had a distinguished career fighting for American families at home and exhibiting strong leadership on issues abroad. The Obama-Biden ticket is an exciting ticket that will win in November."
WHAT’S NEW -  Friday, 22 Aug 08
  • JALAPENOS: IS IRRADIATION ONLY FOR RABBIT FOOD?
  • LUNACY: HAS ANYONE THOUGHT THIS THROUGH?
  • BASIC RESEARCH: HAS BELL LABS HIT BOTTOM?
  • ERROR: NORMAN BORLAUG’S 1970 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE.
"No Nukes" Ad From U.S. Scientists' Group Too "Scary" for Northwest Airlines - BuzzFlash
"The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) placed ads that question nuclear proliferation in both airports of the two cities hosting the major party conventions this fall. The two ads were virtually the same, though changed to specifically apply to one city or another."
Conservatives Grow Wary of Mixing Church, Politics
"That significant shift in conservative thought has brought the country to a tipping point on the question: a slim majority of Americans _ 52 percent _ now think churches should keep out of politics.  That's an eight percentage point increase over 2004 and the first time a majority of Americans has held that opinion since Pew officials started asking the question 12 years ago."
McCain's faith journey largely unspoken - The PEW Forum
"During much of his time as a senator, McCain has attended North Phoenix Baptist Church, a Southern Baptist congregation in Arizona where his wife Cindy was baptized in 1991. But McCain has not joined the church, whose Sunday morning service is attended by about 2,200"
22 Aug  
Sand Island residents the focal point of presentation
"The focal point of the history talk and slide presentation given by Bob Mackreth, retired historian for the Apostles Islands National Lakeshore, was about the West Bay Lodge built in 1913 on Sand Island and Sand Island summer resident Gertrude Wellisch."
Funding sought for County D extension
"Years ago, Obey, D-Wis., developed the Section 154 fund designed for projects in four northern Wisconsin counties, including Iron County. Funds could come through that fund.  The plan to extend County D gained momentum two years ago when Gov. James Doyle announced a $2 million Wisconsin Department of Commerce grant for Hurley. A small portion of that grant was designated for a County Trunk D extension study."
Cranberry stars in cooking contest
"The 10th anniversary Cranberry Cooking Contest will be held Sept. 27 during the annual Cranberry Colorama at Manitowish Waters.  Both events are sponsored by the Manitowish Waters Chamber of Commerce. Colorama runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Manitowish Waters Community Center and Lions Pavilion."
Emerald Ash Borer Restrictions
"Forestry officials say the insect can only travel a few miles on its own so it often hitches a ride on firewood to get around.  A two-year ban on firewood outside of Wisconsin is already in effect but foresty officials are now revising the restrictions.  So now no firewood from south of State Highway 29 is allowed up north."
Don’t lose your identity when you sell your car
"The letter said she passed through 57 gates without paying, and it included a photo of her license plates as evidence.  Mollet checked the photo and realized her old plates were still on the streets. Someone was using them, and she was getting the bill."
State busts of illegal cigarettes jump after tax increase
"The state tax agency is getting more cooperation from Internet vendors and has sent some of their Wisconsin customers notices that they owe the $1.77-per-pack tax on cigarettes bought in that way, officials said.  All confiscated cigarettes and other illegal tobacco products are destroyed.  Although state officials refer information about the illegal cigarettes to local prosecutors, few prosecutions result, officials said."
New UW research reveals how male sex traits evolved 
"What they found is a genetic switch that acts differently in males and females. In males, a protein is suppressed, resulting in the pigmentation of its abdomen. In the drab female, however, this protein acts as a repressor. These gender variations did not require different or distinct genes."
Renewable energy grants available 
"The grants, totaling $1.3 million, will support one project in each of five technologies: wind turbine, solar electric system, solar water heating, biomass combustion and anaerobic wastewater treatment."
Today Pro-life Groups Will Announce Final Plans for Public Demonstrations and Vigils at the Democratic National Convention in Denver - Christian News Wire
"The organizations intend to hold public rallies and vigils in Denver parks, demonstrations throughout the city including Senator Obama's and delegates hotels, prayer and leaving roses at the Pepsi Center, distributing literature and holding major pro-life witnesses at various venues throughout Denver with banners, trucks and cutting edge public events."
California Doctors Can't Refuse Treatment to Gays on Religious Grounds, Court Rules - Los Angeles Times
""The 1st Amendment's right to the free exercise of religion does not exempt defendant physicians here from conforming their conduct to the . . . antidiscrimination requirements," Justice Joyce L. Kennard wrote for the court."
[Would Jesus have refused to give medical care to a gay person.. or a leper?  Would he have been proud of those who would? - Bob]
Company acknowledges voting machine error - AP
"After Premier blamed the problem solely on antivirus software, officials in Ohio's Butler County kept testing the machines and claimed that there was a problem with the machines themselves. That was later verified by Premier's own testing. The company said the software can cause the error, but that the programming glitch can produce the error even when the software isn't used."
McCain's Plan to Privatise Veterans' Health Care
"Virtually all veterans groups oppose McCain's plan. The Veterans of Foreign Wars' national legislative director has said the VA card would "undermine the entire system".  According to the Centre for Responsive Politics, Democrat Barack Obama has received nearly six times as much money from troops deployed overseas at the time of their contribution than has Republican John McCain."
Medical Bills Burden 72 Million Working-Age Adults in U.S.
"Based on the newer survey, 28 million Americans used all their savings on medical expenses, 21 million built up substantial credit-card debt and 21 million couldn't pay for basics such as food, heat or rent.  ``Working people are struggling to pay their bills and accruing medical debt,'' said Sara Collins, the fund's assistant vice president, in a statement."
21 Aug  
Mercer Lions Brewfest 
"The Mercer Lions are inviting you, your family, and friends to their annual Brew Fest and Indoor Tailgate Party. The event will be held on Monday, September 8th, 2008, at the Wolf's Den in the Great Northern Motel, Mercer. Join your fellow football fans for a sampling of a variety of beers from local breweries while watching the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings football game on large TV's. Enjoy lots of good food, fun, raffles and football pool."
Montreal woman cries wolf
"Residents on Texas Avenue and No. 4 Road in Montreal had a visitor from the wild Wednesday morning when an apparently hungry wolf came in search of food.  Texas Avenue resident Janet Aimone called the Daily Globe about her canine visitor, who meandered through the neighborhood for quite some time."
Morichetti talk about 'Capone myths' canceled
"Morichetti had been on the agenda to present "Dispelling Capone Myths" following an ethnic dinner at noon at the convention.  She was married to Ralph Capone, brother to Al Capone, for 23 years until Ralph Capone's death at Villa Maria in Hurley in 1974.  Morichetti cited "an out-of-town family emergency" for the cancellation."
GIANT drug bust in Hurley results in arrest
"According to the criminal complaint filed on Monday in Iron County Circuit Court, Zachary R. Lee faces two felonies of delivery of a controlled substance and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance."
Malaga receives accreditation, certification
"Malaga will provide virtual assistant services for debtor bankruptcy attorneys nationwide and will work under the supervision of licensed debtor bankruptcy attorneys."
Patritto: Big Apple to Alehouse
"Patritto sings original material, including songs from her 2007 debut album, "Grand Dreams."   Patritto, of Hurley, has been honing her talent in front of varied audiences from New York City to Madison, Wis., in recent months."
Kohl charms the crowd at Senior Expo
"But seniors who hoped to hear a formal presentation from Kohl, however, gladly made do with a more informal meet-and-greet. The affable senator strolled through the cafeteria, introducing himself to constituents and listening to their concerns about issues like rising gas prices, slow-moving stimulus checks and campaign-finance reform."
Wisconsin senator praises Great Lakes Compact
"We hear a huge amount about health care. The concerns continue to be as high as they have ever been. Energy and alternative energy, job losses, some questions about foreign policy. We hear about Iraq and terrorism, perhaps not as much as last year. Those are some of the big issues,"
Man living in Bayfield pleads guilty to illegal entry to U.S.
"After court Welsh said Gonzalez-Gonzalez's wife had cancer and her client returned to be with her. Gonzalez-Gonzalez's wife is recovering from her illness, Welsh said.  Graber said after court that the Immigration and Naturalization Service deports most illegal aliens in a non-criminal procedure. The government prosecutes aliens who have repeatedly entered the country illegally and those with prior convictions."
Champion Anglers Will Make Their Way to Town
"Summer fishing season is quickly coming to an end, but a new national tournament in Rhinelander will be the beginning of plenty of excitement to come for anglers.  That's because the North American Ice Fishing Circuit announced today its 2008 tournament series will be held this December on Boom Lake, in Rhinelander."
State's unemployment rate goes down
"“Part of the things that we’ve been seeing is a diminishing of the size of the labor force, and I think partially because people are getting discouraged,” said Russ Kashian, a regional economist at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater."
Tougher air pollution rule likely
"The DNR argues cutting mercury and other pollutants will make fish healthier to eat and make the air cleaner. Mercury released by coal-burning power plants is largely responsible for a public health advisory about consuming fish."
Outgoing UW leader rips business lobby's tactics
"Outgoing University of Wisconsin-Madison Chancellor John Wiley says the state's largest business lobby has been taken over by "political extremists" and has become an obstacle to economic development.  Wiley is using a 3,000-word essay in Madison Magazine to slam Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce and state lawmakers for creating a "toxic" political environment that puts partisanship ahead of the state's pressing needs."
Feingold joins call against FBI 'surveillance' proposal 
"In a letter to Attorney General Michael Mukasey, the senators contend that the guidelines will allow the FBI to use "intrusive investigative techniques ... without any basis for suspicion" when conducting criminal, security and intelligence investigations."
Now on the Hallmark aisle: Gay marriage cards - Madison Times
"Most states don't recognize gay marriage - but now Hallmark does.  The nation's largest greeting card company is rolling out same-sex wedding cards - featuring two tuxedos, overlapping hearts or intertwined flowers, with best wishes inside. "Two hearts. One promise," one says."
Commentary: Is McCain another George W. Bush? - CNN Politics
"He will leave office with the country $10 trillion in debt, fighting two wars, our international reputation in shambles, our government cloaked in secrecy and suspicion that his entire presidency has been a litany of broken laws and promises, our citizens' faith in our own country ripped to shreds. Yet Bush goes bumbling along, grinning and spewing moronic one-liners, as though nobody understands what a colossal failure he has been.  I fear to the depth of my being that John McCain is just like him."
20 Aug  
Enrollment down in Hurley school
"Only 34 students are projected for the kindergarten class, while 52 seniors graduated. Enrollment is down only nine, however, because 11 new students have enrolled in the elementary grades, while two previous students have moved out."
Firefighters' picnic Saturday
"The Hurley Firemen's Annual Picnic will be Saturday, beginning at 11 a.m., at Riccelli Park in Hurley.  There will be bingo, a 50/50 raffle, fireworks, dunk tank, kids' games, food, beer and music."
Great Lakes Airlines wants to be active in community
""With the size of the aircraft at the airport increasing, we have to make sure we have adequate-strength parking pads for them," DuRay said.  Ninety-five percent of this project is federally funded, 2.5 percent state funded, with Gogebic and Iron counties each paying 1.25 percent of the costs, DuRay said.  At a cost of about $30,000, the airport recently upgraded its aviation gas tank from 2,000 gallons to 12,000 gallons, DuRay said."
Candidates grilled on disability issues
"Rep. Gary Sherman, D-Port Wing, joined his Democratic challenger Alan Ralph and Republican candidate Shirl LaBarre for the disability-issues forum. Pastor Darrel Robertson moderated the event, which was held in a crowd-packed room at M&I Bank and hosted by North Country Independent Living and the Wisconsin Disability Vote Coalition."
Neumanns Back in Court
"A couple accused of praying instead of seeking medical care as their 11-year-old daughter died of diabetes has asked a judge to dismiss the charges as unconstitutional.  The move came today as Dale and Leilani Neumann pleaded not guilty to second-degree reckless homicide during a brief appearance before Marathon County Circuit Judge Vincent Howard."
Large berry harvest expected
"Growers could rake in 3.85 million barrels of the fruit statewide during this year's harvest -- a 4 percent increase from the state's 2007 harvest and more than double Massachusetts' expected 1.9 million barrels, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report released Tuesday."
EPA cites 6 counties for fine-particle pollution
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday designated six Wisconsin counties, for the first time ever, as violating federal standards for fine-particle pollution.   The counties are Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, Dane, Columbia and Brown.  The revised standard was set after the agency reviewed thousands of scientific studies on how the tiny particles affect the lungs and heart and concluded that allowable daily limits for soot levels must fall by 46%."
Wis. officials defend mercury emission rules
"The Department of Natural Resources adopted rules this summer requiring utilities to cut mercury emissions by 90 percent by 2015. Utilities can extend that deadline to 2021 if they achieve significant reductions in sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and mercury."
State warns of unemployment claim Web sites 
""We help individuals file their claims absolutely free," Gassman said. "Going to one of these (Web) sites can delay payment of benefits, add unnecessary steps to the process and put people at risk of identity theft."  The Web sites look similar to the state's official site and typically offer free consultation, urging fast action for guaranteed results."
Oh, Fudge: Tourism secretary tries hand at making sweet confection
"I think it's very nice when they (state officials) stop by," said Dan's store manager Michael Johnson, who noted Gov. Jim Doyle has also been a past governmental visitor at the confection shop. "It's nice to know that they (state officials) are working with our local chamber of commerce to promote tourism. I'm a huge fan of our local chamber..."
Planned Parenthood Plays Dirty with Legal Battle Against Aurora Pro-Life Citizens - Pro-Life Action League
"The libel lawsuit against Planned Parenthood of Illinois and Director Steve Trombley was filed on October 1, 2007, in response to a letter by Trombley to the mayor and city council of Aurora, Ill., stating that local citizens who opposed the opening of their Aurora facility had "a well-documented history of advocating violence against both persons and property as well as other related criminal activity." These claims were repeated in a full-page ad in The Aurora Beacon News and Planned Parenthood press releases."
Fox & Friends aired McCain's ad of Dems praising him, not DNC response with criticism from many of same Dems - Media Matters
"Earlier, while teasing the segment, guest co-host Dave Briggs stated: "[I]t's 88 days until the election. Are top Democrats pulling for McCain?"  By contrast, the August 8 edition of MSNBC's Morning Joe aired both the McCain ad and the DNC's response, and the August 7 edition of MSNBC's Countdown aired clips from both ads."
 

19 Aug

  
Drug abuse, pedophiles raise local concern
"In another matter, Ashland County District Attorney Sean Duffy asked for a change in state law that would allow those convicted in child predator sting operations to serve their extended supervision sentences in the counties where they live rather than in the county in which they were arrested. Duffy said under the current state laws, those convicted in sting operations must serve their extended supervision in the county in which they were arrested once they finish their prison term."
Eagle Bluff Golf
"Eagle Bluff Couples
  • Low gross: Ralph and Beverly Pertile, 38.
  • Low net (tie): Wayne and Betty Mathias and Don and Dolores Ludlow, 33; Frank and Jackie Kopnik, 34."
Offset rising heating bills
"Last year's heating bill for an average user was about $750 for 900 therms of natural gas from Nov. 1 to March 31. This year, predictions put that price tag at $940 for 900 therms of natural gas ... It's a relief from predictions earlier this year of increases up to 50 percent, he said."
Living in a Digital World
"It's a world where GPS has always been available, phones have always had caller ID and tax returns could always be filed online.  Those are some of the 60 cultural landmarks on the latest Beloit College Mindset List,
released today."
Senator strips portfolio of X-rated stock
"“I’m not happy with this,” Cowles said Monday. “It’s embarrassing.”  The veteran lawmaker was first contacted Thursday about his less-than-wholesome holdings. Cowles said his investments were overseen by his financial adviser, Gary Tremble, but the legislator made it clear that he knew the two companies owned strip clubs. He seemed genuinely surprised, however, about the Web sites and magazines operated by Rick’s Cabaret."
Dry fields mean crops might not mature 
"The latest Wisconsin Crop Progress report from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service said later planting dates and cool evening temperatures are causing the slow crop development.  Rainfall is lacking across the state, putting stress on crops planted in lighter soil but helping move along the harvest of smaller grains and the cutting of the third crop of hay."
MW bike trail advocates make their case for bike trail expansion
"The tabling was sought by Hanson to give the Manitowish Waters Bike Trail Committee some time to compile accident statistics for the Hwy. 51 corridor in an effort to provide for a more informed board discussion on the various safety issues raised by plan opponents."
Churches Pay the Average Senior Pastor More Than $80,000 Per Year
"A recent national survey of pastors and church staff shows the compensation and benefits paid to the average Senior Pastor has risen to $81,113 per year, with the highest 25% of Senior Pastors making more than $97,000 each year."
A road map to wardriving in these times - SF Gate
"The threat may be remote, but there are lesser concerns that security consultants describe. The local sex offender borrowing a neighbor's signal to download child pornography. The local teenager downloading terabytes of movies who would rather cripple a neighbor's bandwidth than Mom and Dad's. Or the random hacker or prankster looking for a server to send spam to millions or threatening messages to the White House."
Putin's Winning Hand: - Information Clearing House
"The city's only hospital was deliberately targeted and destroyed; another war crime. By day's end, over 2,000 people were killed in an operation that was clearly engineered with the assistance of the Bush White House. Bush regards Saakashvilli as his main client in the region; they are friends. He is America's cat's paw in the Caucasus. Saakashvilli's assignment is to try to get Putin to overreact militarily and demonstrate to European allies that Russia still poses a threat to their national security. Fortunately, many Europeans see through the ruse and know that the trouble originates in Washington."
McCain's Mansions - Brave New Films
[Anyone he has heard  McCain and his surrogates calling Obama elitist and uppidy should check out this video. - Bob]
 

18 Aug

  
H Window is Business of the Year
"They moved here from Minnesota, bought this building and started making windows. They've grown and they make an outstanding window; we've put them in the Soo Line Depot, put them in the Ashland Area Development Corporation building. They've been good for the community. Their product is sold throughout the United States and it helps say where Ashland is and what we do here."
Dale bounces back to claim mod feature victory
"Next Saturday’s race program will be the last of the regular season, the Fan Appreciation Night presented by Pepsi. At the completion of the program the track’s 2008 points champions in all six divisions will be named."
Kimball celebrates completion of town park
"The town of Kimball has held an annual picnic for about a decade, but at Sunday's picnic residents and officials celebrated the completion of renovations to the town park.  It was also the town's 95th anniversary."
Wolves kill at least nine bear dogs
"The WDNR reimburses hunters for dogs killed by wolves.  Wydeven said the nine dog deaths occurred between July 1 and Aug. 5.  Bear hunters are training their dogs throughout northern Wisconsin and Ashland, Douglas and Sawyer counties are particularly vulnerable to wolf attacks."
26-inch pike limit to stay
"WDNR surveys indicated a "healthy, but low-density northern pike population, with fair numbers of fish more than 26 inches long and some as large as 46 inches," according to Bill Horns, WDNR fisheries biologist.  DNR biologists said 46-inch pike would not be found in an over-harvested population."
State Senator Owns Stock in Strip Clubs, XXX Sites
"A state senator is putting a lot of money into companies that run strip clubs.  Green Bay Republican State Senator Robert Cowles has put more than $50,000 into Rick's Cabaret International and VCG Holding. That's according to an ethics statement. "
Virtual Dream Come True
"The traditional face to face student teacher contact isn't totally lost in cyber space. Nancy says there's always a student or teacher ready to help somewhere beyond this screen.  McKenzie says, "It would be like someone raising their hand in the classroom and answering a question only you just don't see them raising their hand. That's the only difference.""
High gas prices cut pollution
"The sharp drop stems from several factors, all tied to the price of gas, which is $1 a gallon more than it was at this time last year.  As a result of higher prices, we are driving less and using more mass transit.  In Wisconsin, motorists drove 1.1 billion fewer miles in the first six months of the year, federal highway statistics show. "
Wolf man tracks packs: Biologist surveys Wisconsin wolves
"Radio collars have been attached to some Wisconsin wolves since 1979, and wildlife biologists have learned a great deal about the size of packs’ home range, dispersal of wolves and causes of death. Wisconsin wolves have been found as far away as eastern Indiana and Missouri, said Adrian Wydeven, a DNR wolf expert."
Action on protective laws ever likelier
"This summer, Wisconsin Sen. Russ Feingold said he preferred a legislative solution to the ballast problem so the ships can keep hauling. But he said if the issue remains snarled, he will consider a moratorium.  He was the first federal lawmaker to make such a stand. Now he has company.  In an Aug. 7 e-mail to the Journal Sentinel, a spokeswoman for Sen. Herb Kohl says the senator, too, will push for a legislative solution that keeps the boats in business when the Senate gets back to business in September.
Proposal: Reduce water use with a high-efficiency toilet, get a $100 rebate
"The rebate plan, which would offer $100 per dwelling unit — a third of the cost of installing a high-efficiency toilet — is the centerpiece of the utility's goal of cutting residential water use by 20 percent by 2020."
TV remains top source of news even as online grows 
"Fewer Americans are reading newspapers and are instead getting their news online, but television remains the leading source of news in the country, according to a survey released Sunday.  Not surprisingly, younger people tend to get more of their news on the Internet, while older folks use traditional media such as television and newspapers, the Pew Research Center's biannual survey on news consumption habits said."
Rural economic woes may provide opening for Obama 
"In an AP-Yahoo News Poll in June, rural voters favored McCain over Obama, 40 percent to 34 percent. About 34 percent of rural voters said McCain "shares my values," compared to 27 percent who said Obama did.  Recognizing an opportunity, Obama has opened more offices in rural areas than any other Democratic presidential candidate in years, pushing a message focused on job creation."
OnMilwaukee.com Let's Take A Ride: South On Highway 51
"By the way, a reader of the first Highway 51 column, points out that the highway does indeed have a song, done by none other than a young Bob Dylan. It's called the "Highway 51 Blues." Here's the YouTube video."
State has no Jurisdiction Over Marriage so Marriage License Should not be Required - Christian News Wire
"Pastor David Whitney, a Senior Instructor at "Institute On The Constitution," will be the September speaker in the group's monthly "First Friday" lecture series. His talk will explain why marriage is no business of the government, why there should be no marriage license requirement."
Crisis in Georgia Beginning to Turn Into a Big Political Liability for McCain - The Huyffington Post
"Secondly, as the situation in Georgia develops it becomes clearer by the day that the Bush-McCain Iraq policy has severely undercut our diplomatic options as well. Apart from generally poisoning the good will of countries around the world, the Bush-McCain invasion of Iraq lowered the bar for the rest of the world when it comes to justifying the invasion of one country by another."

 
 

16&17 Aug

  
Take Me Out to Ball Game  - (Scroll Down past picture)
"Yesterday was a great day to get out and enjoy a few games of softball... volleyball too! A large crowd turned out for the tournaments at the Carey Park along Highway 77, just out of Hurley."
Governor says Wisconsin wants to be a good partner
"During Wednesday's breakfast at the Hurley Inn, Doyle pointed out the "remoteness" of the Hurley area, and lauded the people of the area for "working hard to develop the economy." He said the state of Wisconsin wants to be a good partner."
Jury duty off for some in Iron County
"Iron County residents who were called for jury duty on Aug. 26-27 need not show up.  The trial has been canceled, according to county clerk of courts Karen Ransanici."
Child care certification meetings set
"The Iron County Human Services Department will hold an informational meeting for those interested in becoming a certified child care provider Tuesday, Aug. 26, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the county courthouse in Hurley and Wednesday, Aug. 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the at the Haines Civic Center in Mercer, Wis."
Help for Rural Businesses
"Doyle announced a $14 million loan fund for rural businesses. The partnership with the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority helps businesses in rural counties get low-interest loans. "
Business
North
Duluth,MN		 14 rural northern Wisconsin school districts to get a bump of money from the state
"It will be a monumental event to have a half million dollars distributed to those small schools. In some ways, it's like lifeblood being given back to those schools because in order for receiving those dollars, there are other cuts that aren't going to have to be made this year and those cuts will effect kids and learning in the classroom."
Arrival of Tree Killing Pest Brings Scammers
"The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection has received reports of people going door to door soliciting for tree spraying.  Agency spokeswoman Jane Larson says all products that could protect trees against the Asian insect are used in early spring. Larson says people with ash trees should contact a local, certified arborist or pesticide applicator instead."
Portage County may write tickets for pot
"The county's public safety committee Wednesday endorsed a proposal from the sheriff's department to allow deputies to issue an ordinance citation to anyone caught with a small amount of marijuana.  Deputies can choose to write the citation for first-time offenders caught with less than 25 grams of marijuana. The offense carries a $200 fine, plus court costs."
1% increase statewide is smallest in 21 years
"The 1% gain in existing home values shows stability in the Wisconsin markets, said Mike Theo, a vice president of the Wisconsin Realtors Association.  "Our highs aren't as high; our lows aren't as low," he said. "Wisconsin kind of goes up and down in a much more narrow band.""
Officials call for voter registration card checks
"As many as 15 paid workers from the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now and the Community Voters Project are under scrutiny for the registration cards they submitted. In most cases, the groups say they caught the fraud and fired the workers before the cards were turned over to the Milwaukee Election Commission."
  Milwaukee tabbed as 'sexiest city' in mag
"The magazine that targets women in their 20s and 30s listed the Brew City in its "Sexy 101" section.  They weren't kidding, either.  According to the entry, Milwaukee is "the nation's summer-festival epicenter" where "NASCAR tailgaters, Lebanese dabka dance fans and Foo Fighters freaks (are) all welcome.""
UW researchers find gene marker for prostate cancer 
""We've found that there's a gene in the prostate that alters its expression with aging, and that aberrant gene behavior is what promotes the development of cancer," explained Dr. David Jarrard, the study's principal author and a professor of urology at the UW Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center in Madison. The findings were published in the Aug. 15 edition of Cancer Research."

WHAT’S NEW Friday, 15 Aug 08

  • FAITH FORUM: IT’S THE EVANGELICALS, STUPID.

  • FAITH HEALER?  THE END OF THE "OUTPOURING."

  • DEAD ZONE: HYPOXIA INCREASES IN COASTAL AREAS.
Four Americans Stuck in China Airport for Carrying Chinese Bibles - Christian News Wire
"According to Mr. Klein, each of them was fined for 400 US dollars for overweight luggage with the bibles. The Chinese customs officials told the four Americans that their all of their bibles are confiscated as 'illegal religious literatures."
national security quiz - ACLU
"Learn about more outrageous DHS behaviors by taking the ACLU’s security quiz today.  After you take the quiz, make sure you forward it to your friends and family so they can learn about these measures which are supposed to protect us, but instead strip us of our basic rights with no additional security."
The Tragic Arkansas Shooting and Conservative Hate Speech - Alternet
"I wanted to make sure that there was no personal connection between the shooter and Bill Gwatney, and apparently there wasn't one. Instead, there are some initial eerie similarities between the shooter Timothy Dale Johnson, and the man who massacred members of the Unitarian church in Knoxville, Tennessee last month."
Quebec Wal-Mart Workers Unionize - Washington Post
"The three-year contract covers eight workers in the tire and lube department of a Wal-Mart in Gatineau, Quebec, and increases starting wages from $8.40 to $10.89 an hour. The contract was imposed by the Quebec Labor Relations Board after negotiations between the company and employees fell apart. In its decision, the board called the contract "reasonable, realistic and equitable.""
 

15 Aug

  
Governor Doyle Visits Hurley - Don Richards
  • Increase funding for Dept of Tourism
  • Abandon Extended Antler-less Deer Season
  • Abandon Smoking Restrictions
  • Snow Capital of Wisconsin

[Click HERE to read the letter sent from the Chamber of Commerce to Gov. Doyle. - Bob]
Paving expected to begin Aug. 25 for Hurley project
"The $2 million project includes about 12 blocks of sewer, water and roadway reconstruction and 24 blocks of sanitary sewer rehabilitation.  Substantial completion for the project is scheduled for Sept. 19. A-1 Excavating of Bloomer began working on the project on May 12."
Paisano picnic set for Aug. 24
"The Gogebic and Iron County Paisano Club will hold its summer picnic Sunday, Aug. 24, at 2 p.m. at the Kimball Town Park.  Polenta and salamini will be provided. Members are asked to bring a dish to pass, and to wear Italian hats or aprons. There will be bingo and cards."
Local bowling group to hold annual meeting
"The Gogebic-Iron USBC BA will hold its annual meeting Wednesday, Aug. 20, at 6:30 p.m. at the American Legion Lanes in Hurley.  Supplies will be handed out. All league secretaries and interested bowlers should attend."
Hurley to host first classic 5k
"The first Hurley Cross Country Classic 5k will be held at the Hurley High School on Saturday, Aug. 30, at 6 p.m.  The entry fee is $15 and anyone may run. Proceeds from the run will be given to the Hurley cross country team."
Craft exhibitors sought for Colorama
"The Manitowish Waters Chamber of Commerce is still accepting applications for outdoor art and craft exhibitors at the annual Cranberry Colorama Sept. 27 at the Manitowish Waters Community Center."
Funnel clouds spotted in Springstead area
"Checking with the Vilas County Sheriff's Department, the ICSD dispatcher learned that the VCSD had three reports of funnel clouds, with two dissipating.  Checking further, the Duluth National Weather Service reported it "didn't show anything for Iron County concerning severe weather, only bad weather in Vilas County," the ICSD report said."
Uranium exploration permit process moves forward
"The Ottawa National Forest Service has signed a letter of intent allowing Canadian-based Trans Superior Resources Inc. to begin uranium exploration in the Forest Road 400 area of the forest, north of Bergland in Ontonagon County."
Area veterans voice concerns at public hearing in Superior
 “I think we fought the big fight two, three years ago,” said Sen. Bob Jauch, D-Poplar. “I have no doubt the VA clinic will continue.” He said it may even expand its focus to reach out to more veterans, in particular those suffering from mental and emotional trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)."
Conservation groups set their priorities
"Really what we are looking for is what people are going to be engaged on and what they would contact their legislators about, and would want to come to Conservation Lobby Day about. So when you hear from people with really thought-out ideas of what they want to see, it's exciting."
Four fined for exceeding walleye limits, violating other rules on Chequamegon Bay
"According to Department of Natural Resources Conservation Warden Mat MacKenzie, the four were found in possession of 24 walleyes, all over 20 inches in length. State law allows a daily bag limit of five walleyes per day, only one of which may be more than 20 inches in length. The fish confiscated by the DNR ranged up to 30 inches in length."
WI Foreclosures
"RealtyTrac says Wisconsin had 2,044 foreclosure actions in July, up 64 percent from a year ago but down 13.5 percent from June.  Wisconsin ranks 29th among 50 states in the rate of foreclosure, with 1 for every 1,240 households."
Life drained by water that won’t
"The groundwater table is now aboveground in low-lying areas, after record rain last August, heavy winter snowfalls and the storms in June, according to the University of Wisconsin Extension. Because of the varied topography, deep water covers fields on one plot while a field just across the road needs irrigation."
It’s a beer vs. kid trade-off
"State Sen. Neal Kedzie (R-Elkhorn) asked the state Department of Workforce Development to clarify the law after the agency banned Tallan Latz, an 8-year-old blues guitar prodigy, from performing in bars."
Wisconsin property values increase 3 percent
"Residential property values in Wisconsin increased 3 percent last year overall, while the worth of existing homes increased just 1 percent.  The increase is the smallest in 21 years and will make local budgets even tighter since property values help determine how much can be collected in property taxes."
Pay to ride the school bus or walk? That's what Mount Horeb students must decide
"High diesel costs have prompted the Mount Horeb School District to start charging students $25 per year to ride the bus if they live within two miles of their school. A family would be charged a maximum of $50."
Wisconsin bucks July's national unemployment trend 
"Department of Workforce Development Secretary Roberta Gassman said the unemployment rate for July was 4.8 percent in Wisconsin, down 0.1 percent from June and virtually unchanged from July of 2007.  The national unemployment rate for July was 6.0 percent, an increase of 0.3 percent from June and an increase of 1.1 percent from July of 2007."
Judge says UC can deny religious course credit - San Francisco Chronicle
"Rejecting claims of religious discrimination and stifling of free expression, U.S. District Judge James Otero of Los Angeles said UC's review committees cited legitimate reasons for rejecting the texts - not because they contained religious viewpoints, but because they omitted important topics in science and history and failed to teach critical thinking."
Science Comes to the Aid of Religion
"The intermixed threads combined to give the dates found by the labs ranging between 1260 and 1390 AD. Benford and Marino contend that this expert repair was necessary to disguise an unauthorized relic taken from the corner of the cloth. A paper presented today at the conference by Benford and Marino, and to be published in the July/August issue of the international journal Chemistry Today, provided additional corroborating evidence for the repair theory."

McCain vs. Obama: The 2008 Summer Olympics - NewsDay.com
"John McCain and Barack Obama compete in the 2008 Presidential Summer Olympics to see who will win the gold medal."
 

14 Aug

  
Doyle: Tourism key to thriving northern economy
"Wisconsin's challenge is "to have the economy to create the kinds of jobs for people who want to live here and can live here," Doyle told about 50 people from area businesses, local government, law enforcement and other organizations at his brief stop at the Hurley Inn."
Hurley police join national effort
"Because drunken drivers are prevalent and deadly threats not just to themselves but also to everyone else on the road, the HPD will be patrolling in greater numbers and for longer hours to arrest impaired motorists during this crackdown," said Hurley Chief of Police Dan Erspamer."
Historical society to mark Prohibition repeal
"Madeline Morichetti of Hurley is scheduled to speak at the 2008 Northwest Region Convention of the Wisconsin Council for Local History on Aug. 23 at the Aging Unit of Iron County.  The topic of Morichetti's presentation will be "Dispelling Capone Family Myths." An ethnic feast featuring the foods of early settlers with music from the roaring 20s, organized by Ricky Kelly of Hurley, will precede the talk."
Hurley council approves purchasing sidewalk pads
"Council members agreed to purchase 214 sidewalk pads at $104.95 apiece from Ruotsala Concrete of Ironwood for replacing sidewalks.  The pads will be installed before winter."
Northland loon photography contest open
"The LoonWatch program at the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute is seeking entries for the 11th annual Loon Appreciation Week poster contest.  The contest is open to original photography of any loon species."
Gov. Doyle visited Mellen
"Rep. Gary Sherman, left, and State Senator Bob Jauch joined Gov. Jim Doyle as he presented Mellen Mayor Joe Barabe with a $200,000 check towards the construction of Mellen's new library and senior center"
27 People Have Drowned in WI This Year 
"The state Department of Health says 55 people died in drownings in 2006 in the state, the most recent year for which numbers are available.  The Department of Natural Resources tracks drownings in boating incidents.  It says eight people have died this year through June compared with 18 for all of last year."
Union rallies for Kimberly mill
"State Rep. Tom Nelson, D-Kaukauna, last week introduced a resolution asking the state Assembly to urge NewPage and its parent, Cerberus Capital Management, a New York-based private equity firm, to put the historic mill dating to 1889 up for sale.  NewPage has been steadfast in its refusal to entertain offers to purchase the mill, which it acquired as part of a package from former owner, Finland-based Stora Enso in December."
State studies hunt of formerly endangered wolves
"The state Department of Natural Resources has had the option of a wolf hunt in its management plan since 1999. But the possibility of a season is closer to reality as wolf numbers have grown and livestock producers and hunting groups have pushed for controls."
Manitowoc carferry S.S. Badger ready for service
"The Ludington Daily News reports the Badger was scheduled to arrive back in port Thursday evening and immediately resume its regular runs between Ludington and Manitowoc, Wis."
Yes, Republicans Can - Mother Jones
"He has touched something in me and in a whole lot of friends of mine that have never voted for a Democrat and in a lot of people who honestly would never consider voting for a black man. We all feel that something has to change, and now, for the first time, there's the possibility that something can be different."
 

13 Aug

  
Sides 'butt' heads in debate over smoking
"An unidentified man attending the meeting noted no one is forcing anyone to enter a tavern where smoking is occurring. The discussion became extremely heated when the effects of smoking were debated.  Hagemann urged those attending the meeting to stop smoking and said second-hand smoke kills thousands of people annually throughout the nation. "You do it for your health. The statistics are there," she said."
Volunteers make big events of summer a big success
"The Iron County Fair, the Gogebic County Fair and the 40th annual Paavo Nurmi Marathon had successful runs, thanks to the hundreds of volunteers who contributed precious hours of their own time to lend a hand."
STARS travels three states during summer program
"Students took Michigan field trips to the Porcupines Mountains and Black River Harbor. They visited Wisconsin sites as well -- Splashland in Ashland; Wildwood Wildlife Park in Minocqua; Lac Du Flambeau Indian Village; Scheer's Lumberjack Show, Woodruff. And they went to Omni Max and the Lake Superior Zoo in Duluth, Minn."
Hurley cross country starts practice Monday
"Students in grades seven through 12 interested in running cross country should meet in the school commons.  For information, call the school at 715-561-4900, ext. 206."

Junior high football practice begins Monday
Golf tournament to raise money for Mercer volleyball
"The Mercer Booster Club will sponsor a golf tournament to raise funds for the Mercer volleyball program Aug. 24.  The tournament is at Tahoe Lynx golf course in Mercer with a 3 p.m. shotgun start."
Softball tournament set for Aug. 15-17
"The schedule for Friday night is: Uncle Sam's vs Don's Bar, 5:30 p.m., Gile Field; Bank Club vs JJ's Bar 6:30 p.m. Gile Field; Horses Corral vs Gin Mill 6 p.m., Carey Field; Spiders vs Larry's 7 p.m. Carey Field."
Forest Services plan to close roads raises criticism
"Also, with three years to update the travel management rule, one agency official told a group of local ATV enthusiasts last week the CNNF staff simply was unable to examine all 9,000 miles stretched out along 22,000 roads throughout the forest.  So, if an individual asked for a particular forest road to be open, agency staff would then weigh the public value of keeping that road open versus the risk involved if it were to remain open."
Obama headquarters opens
"The office is one of 30 that are being maintained in the state. Also taking part in the ribbon-cutting for the headquarters were, from left, State Senator Bob Jauch, D- Poplar, Roey Rosenblith, Democratic Party field organizer, who will man the office full-time through the election, and State Representative Gary Sherman, D-Port Wing."
Sawmill Project
"The Northwoods has been rich logging country for as long as anyone can remember.  With advancements in technology, techniques of the past are just memories.  Now, visitors to the area will be able to see what it was like to harvest timber more than a century ago. "
Wisconsin Ranks Third in ACT Scores
"If Milwaukee dramatically increases the number of kids who take the ACT, we'll no longer be in the number one or two in the country. We're going to drop," MPS board member Terry Falk said. "If the state of Wisconsin wants to be one or two in the ACT, they're going to have to figure out ways to help Milwaukee kids do better."
Local Lawmakers Skip DNC
"Two Democratic lawmakers from Wisconsin will not be attending this year's national convention.  Dave Obey of Wausau and Steve Kagen of Appleton announced their decisions today.  Obey is not attending because he says Barack Obama has already locked up the Democratic nomination."
Energy Department predicts $200 average rise in heating costs
"The agency said that homeowners should brace for record home heating bills this winter, as the price of oil and natural gas remain well above levels seen in recent years.  At the same time, the agency said the outlook is much better than a month ago, when the spot price of natural gas was at least 25% higher than it is today."
State ranks 3rd in ACT scores, but racial gaps persist
"And while the state's 2008 high school graduates posted a composite score of 22.3 on the ACT, the overwhelming majority of students are not ready for college success, and gaps persist between white students and racial and ethnic minorities."
Immigration law separates same-sex couple
"Hathaway, 32, is a U.S. citizen. Ferrari, 40, is a French citizen whose work visa ran out a year ago, forcing her to quit her job as a teacher in Sun Prairie and leave the country. The couple married in Canada in January, but U.S. immigration policy doesn't recognize same-sex couples, even ones that have been legally married, so Hathaway cannot sponsor Ferrari for U.S. immigration."
Wisconsin Historical Museum welcomes 2 millionth visitor
"In celebration of the achievement, here's a by-the-numbers look at the Wisconsin Historical Museum."
Ash borer likely to bring con artist infestation, officials say 
"We have seen this happen in parts of Wisconsin that are infested with gypsy moth," said Lori Bowman, agrichemical management bureau director at the department. "If you are a property owner who wants to begin protecting your trees, do your homework so you don't get taken by businesses who are more interested in getting at your money instead of the ash-boring beetle."
Alan Keyes, The Wingnut Voice Against McCain, Evil - All Spin Zone
"The sequence of events in Dr. Dobson’s case makes this clear. He said he could not vote for McCain as a matter of principle, but may do so now because McCain is the better choice when compared to Barack Obama. Since Dobson and others denounce Obama as evil, this makes evil the standard of comparison. The true standard disappears. This is an example of moral relativism, pure and simple; a bad example offered to their fellow citizens ..."
Fox News suffers another debate snub - Media Matters
"In turn, Fox News' ratings woes have opened the door to a much more frank and honest discussion about the news outlet. Like when New York Times media columnist David Carr recently called out Fox News flacks as thugs. And the way MSNBC chief Phil Griffin declared that when it comes to Fox News, "you can't trust a word they say.""
The ‘Veterans’ Vote’ is far from locked up - Crooks and Liars
"But the narrative is incomplete, to put it mildly. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America gave McCain a grade of D for his record of voting against veterans (Obama got a B+), while the Disabled Veterans of America gave McCain a 20% vote rating. The Vietnam Veterans of America compiled a list of key votes, and found McCain voted against the group’s position 15 times and with the group eight times. (Obama, in contrast, voted with the VVA 12 times, and against it only once.)"
12 Aug  
Feingold pleased with progress of compact
"I think we can get it up and running by the end of the year," he said. "I was pleased the Senate moved quickly to join the states in defending against threats to this tremendous economic, environmental and recreation resource."
Montreal says in with the new
"We have a new, modern facility that will serve us proudly for years to come, Montreal Mayor Bob Morzenti told about 25 people at Saturday's ribbon cutting ceremony as part of the grand opening ceremony for the Montreal City Hall/Fire Station."
Heaslett runs into Paavo history
"Heaslett shrugged off the jinx and won in 3:15;53. She said she felt some pressure herself to get the win Saturday. One nervewracking aspect: No one knows who else will run the marathon and Heather Roth, of DeForest, Wis., always runs a good race.  "I just felt like it'd be really cool to get that eighth one," Heaslett said."
Schneider runs to three-peat at 40th Paavo
"Schneider passed Holm late in the race to grab his third consecutive win over the formidable challenger who had never run a Paavo before.  Holm, a former track star at Wakefield, had a healthy margin for much of the race and was in line to become the first local person to win the Paavo. Schneider thought his chances were "slim to nil" when he was 4:00 behind with about nine miles left."
'Paavo Babe' hanging it up
"It's hard to imagine Kelly not being so involved. On Saturday, she helped runners to the tent to get a massage, took pictures and helped out."
Juntunen catches competitor at cemetery hill
"His lone competitor, Dan Stietz, 43, of Dover, Minn., was not able to train much for the last month, Juntunen said. So Juntunen was better going up hill after Stietz, a strong competitor nonetheless, caught him heading downhill.  Stietz's chair is more aerodynamic than Juntunen's."
Paavo Nurmi Marathon
"Results from the 40th Paavo Nurmi Marathon, run Saturday from Upson, Wis., to Hurley:"
Gov. Doyle, state officials touring Ashland area
"Gov. Jim Doyle pledged to help Ashland Industries start securing overseas contracts during a visit to the earthmoving-equipment manufacturer Monday.  "This is just the type of stuff they want in China right now. They're building everywhere, and I assume they're moving earth," Doyle said. "We can open those doors for you.""
Bay area communities welcomed into energy independence
"This can be a major segment of our economy for people for all kinds of jobs in all areas of the state, he said.  Doyle noted that Wisconsin already leads the country in producing energy from farm wastes such as whey from cheese making, which is converted to ethanol to be used in gasohol."
Terrestrial Invasice Species
"Ted Ritter, the Vilas County Invasive Species Coordinator says, "Nearly all of these in one way or another have the ability of crowding out native vegetation and permanently changing the habitat."
Low vitamin D levels linked to higher risk of death
"Those in the bottom quarter, whose vitamin D level was less than 17.8 nanograms per milliliter, had a 26% greater risk of dying from any cause than those in the top quarter. Levels below 17.8 ng/ml are not uncommon in places such as Wisconsin, especially in non-summer months."
High gas prices raise home buying regrets among Madison's suburbanites
""I was betting on the fact that gas prices were going to level off," she said. "Had I read the handwriting on the wall a little better, I wouldn't have bought outside the (Madison area)."  High gas prices have caused homeowners to rethink their decisions on how far they should live from their jobs or children's schools."
Plans revived for Ice Age Trail complex at Cross Plains
"Officials from the National Park Service and Wisconsin DNR announced Tuesday plans for property they own west of Timber Lane and south of U.S. 14 in the town of Cross Plains as part of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and Scientific Reserve."
Lonely Night in Georgia - Slate
"Regardless of what happens next, it is worth asking what the Bush people were thinking when they egged on Mikheil Saakashvili, Georgia's young, Western-educated president, to apply for NATO membership, send 2,000 of his troops to Iraq as a full-fledged U.S. ally, and receive tactical training and weapons from our military. Did they really think Putin would sit by and see another border state (and former province of the Russian empire) slip away to the West?"
GAO finding: Majority of corporations pay no taxes. - BuzzFlash
"It's shameful that so many corporations make big profits and pay nothing to support our country. The tax system that allows this wholesale tax avoidance is an embarrassment and unfair to hardworking Americans who pay their fair share of taxes. We need to plug these tax loopholes and put these corporations back on the tax rolls... It's time for the big corporations to pay their fair share."
 

11 Aug

  
The Economy & Northwoods Tourism
"Lisa's happy her business and Boulder Junction are finally booming.  Lisa Coon says "It's just full of people on the street. You can't find a parking spot. It's great."  Some people might not like having trouble finding a parking spot, but to Lisa, it's a sign she and other store owners will be swiping plenty of credit cards."
Pretrial Conference Set in Snowmobile Crash
"Court records say Hirschey's blood-alcohol level was nearly three times the legal limit to drive.  Salerno was the morning anchor on WBBM-TV in Chicago. "
Wisconsin GED completion lags behind other states
"The most recent data available shows Wisconsin test-takers in 2006 were less likely than their counterparts in the other 49 states and the District of Columbia to finish the battery of five exams that makes up the GED. As a result of its 54.4% completion rate, the state had the second-lowest percentage of GED test-takers —ahead of only Alabama — who passed and thus earned their high school equivalency certificates."
Migrants feeling pinch
" But since arriving in Wautoma two months ago, they’ve found little work, said Coronado, who is among the estimated 400 migrant farmworkers who come to Wautoma each season and among the 5,000 who enter the state yearly.  On Sunday, a food drive was held to help workers like Coronado and his family. Sponsored by the United Migrant Opportunity Services, it gave families boxes filled with pinto beans, macaroni, cereal, rice and other nonperishable food items."
Democrats beating GOP in Assembly money race
"For the first time since at least 2000, minority Democrats in the state Assembly have raised more money than majority Republicans in the early runup to the fall elections -- a boost that could help their chances of taking back control of that house."
Harley-Davidson finishes acquisition of Italian firm
"At home, the situation has been more difficult for Harley as it grapples with lower sales brought on by the economic slowdown, a weak consumer environment and the surge in gas prices. Earlier this year, Harley cut shipments to its motorcycle dealers and trimmed its work force."
An Antichrist Obama in McCain Ad? - Time
"It's not easy to make the infamous Willie Horton ad from the 1988 presidential campaign seem benign. But suggesting that Barack Obama is the Antichrist might just do it.  That's just what some outraged Christian supporters of the Democratic nominee are claiming John McCain's campaign did in an ad called "The One" that was recently released online."
 

09&10 Aug

  
Paavo Hurmi MarathoN
"The marathon's namesake, Paavo Nurmi, was the winner of nine Olympic Gold Medals, the greatest Finnish runner in that nation's history. The name reflects the predominantly Finnish heritage of the region. The cream of the midwest distance runners traditionally join forces with hundreds of novice and veteran marathoners for the running of "The Paavo"." - Active.com
Torah used in area synagogues found in Ironwood warehouse
"A persistent Steve Heifetz, a medical doctor from Minneapolis, unearthed the Torah from the warehouse in July. Heifetz is the great-grandson of Rabbi Moses Rein, rabbi at the Hurley synagogue Sharey Zedek from 1892 to 1921."
[See also: Jewish family in early Hurley, Sharey Zedek Synagogue. - Bob]
Underfed horses removed from Saxon farm
"Four horses that were found by a veterinarian to be "undernourished and underfed" were removed from a farm on Curry Road in Saxon on Thursday.  The animals were brought to a refuge farm in the Eau Claire, Wis. area, according to a Thursday Iron County Sheriff's Department report."
Lake Superior water levels rebound with July rainfall
"Although the lake flirted with record low levels in 2007, by the end of this May it was about 18 inches above the record low established in 1926, according to Army Corps records that are made available to the National Weather Service."
HPD to soon begin using new law enforcement software
"The HPD was recently awarded a $6,029 Wisconsin Office of Justice Assistance grant for upgrading its computer system with the "investigative tool" program.  The upgrade must be completed by March."
Lake Delton Clean-up
"A nonprofit group called Living Lands and Waters has been awarded a $77,000 contract to manage the cleanup.  The state Department of Natural Resources says the group is very aggressive about water cleanup, and was especially aggressive about seeking out the DNR."
Repair shops wouldn’t get paid for emissions tests under state program
"The car repair shops that would perform emissions tests under a revised state program would not be paid for performing the tests, meaning the only way they could recover their costs would be from increased business.  That arrangement raises new conflict-of-interest questions for the repair shops, said garage owners who won’t be offering the tests."
Invasive snail makes inroads
"The pea-size, spiral-shaped snails, which reproduce by cloning themselves, are on the march across the country after being introduced by fishing activity in western U.S. rivers and by ship ballast water in the Great Lakes."
Swiss Colony buys Montgomery Ward brand, site
"Montgomery Ward, once one of the nation's largest department store and catalog retailers, is moving to Wisconsin.  Midwest Catalog Brands, a subsidiary of The Swiss Colony of Monroe, has purchased the historic Montgomery Ward brand and two related brands for $15.5 million from Direct Marketing Services of Chicago."
Buy wood locally to slow spread of ash borer, says DNR 
"In response to the discovery of the emerald ash borer in Ozaukee and Washington counties earlier this week, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding Wisconsin residents to avoid transporting firewood over long distances."
McCain Campaign Targets Obamessianism - Christianity Today Election 2008
"But that doesn't stop University of Pennsylvania anthropologist John L. Jackson Jr. from claiming that the ad is more than just an effort to paint Obama as the Antichrist -- it's an effort to paint him as Left Behind's Nicolae Carpathia."
U.S. Attorney Scandal Probe Enters White House Circle
"Federal investigators have obtained documents showing that Kyle Sampson, then-chief of staff to Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, and Chris Oprison, then an associate White House counsel, drafted and approved the letter even though they had first-hand knowledge that the assertions were not true. The Justice Department later had to repudiate the Sampson-Oprison letter and sent a new one informing Congress that it could no longer stand by the earlier assertions."
08 Aug  
Obey REVIEWS SECURITY ON NORTHERN BORDER
"Seventh District Congressman Dave Obey (D-WI) is spending the next two days with the Border Patrol to review security issues as they relate to the northern border."
HURLEY CITY COUNCIL - Tuesday, August 12. 2008
  • Board of Public Works -_5:30 P.M.
  • Police, Fire & License Committee
  • Finance Committee
  • City Council Meeting - 6:30 P.M.
Heaslett shoots for eight-peat
"But this is the 40th running of Wisconsin¹s oldest marathon. Organizers had to lift a cap of 50 five-person relay teams to permit more participation.  Everybody, it seems, wants to be a part of the 40th anniversary and get a shirt from this special race, said race advisor Ricky Kelly.  The marathon and both relays begin Saturday at 7:30 a.m. in Upson, Wis., on Wisconsin 77."
Converting Old Memories
"So whether it's your son's football game, your daughters graduation or a family get together from the 1950's, you'll be able to keep the memories alive.  You can convert some formats on your own, if you have the right equipment.  VHS to DVD is the easiest."
Obama’s Viroqua campaign office vandalized again
"In an incident discovered yesterday, a racial slur was spray-painted on a sign promoting Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama... Building owner and Democrat Karen Dahl calls the graffiti disappointing. She says it puts the southwest Wisconsin city in a bad light."
Jack Vilas Day festival to mark historic achievements of pioneering aviator
"Vilas made a huge impression on Wisconsin Conservation Commission chief forester Edward M. Griffith, who dubbed him an "official aviator" as the state's first "flying fire warden."  Vilas flew nearly daily patrol flights during July and August 1915 from the state's conservation headquarters at North Trout Lake."

It's here
""The emerald ash borer is here, and from the look of things, has been here for some time," he said of the invasive insect blamed for the deaths of more than 60 million trees in eight states, the majority of those in Michigan.  Storer, a professor of insect ecology at Michigan Technological University, heads up the crew investigating the beetle's first confirmed sighting in the western Upper Peninsula."
Emerald ash borer discovered at second Wisconsin site
"The finding prompted state agriculture authorities to quarantine ash and some other wood products, such as tree trimmings, in Washington, Ozaukee, Sheboygan and Fond du Lac counties."
Wisconsin traffic deaths plunge
"Traffic deaths on Wisconsin’s roads continue to drop as high fuel prices spur motorists to drive slower.  Last month was the second-safest July in the state since World War II, with 63 deaths in 59 crashes, according to state Department of Transportation statistics released Thursday."
Court date set for Wis. suit over nativity scene
"When the city allowed Fradette to install the scene, Schmitt granted requests for other religious displays. Among those installed was a wreath containing a pentacle, a five-pointed star that is an important symbol for the Wicca religion. The wreath was later removed by vandals and not replaced.  A resident sarcastically asked the city to install a pole symbolizing Festivus, a holiday popularized in an episode of TV's "Seinfeld." Another resident asked for a symbol honoring the "Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster."  Schmitt then imposed a temporary moratorium on religious symbols."
Dazed and Confused - Veracifier
"TPMtv never wished for it to come to this, but as Josh noted, you have pushed TPMtv to extreme measures with your sleazy ads and shameless campaign. You sir, are old and weird. I know - that's a super hacky line against McCain. Yep, welp..."
[It is sad to see a true American hero being punked by a celebretante... sadder still to see him in meltdown mode.  When will  the Republicans save this man from himself by asking him to withdraw? - Bob]
Family’s Donations to McCain Raise Questions - NY Times
"“He’s like a worse copy than Bush,” Mr. Makhlouf said of Mr. McCain.  When a reporter initially contacted Mr. Makhlouf, he denied giving to the McCain campaign.  After eventually admitting to the donation, Mr. Makhlouf added, “I’m still not going to vote for him.”"
07 Aug  
Increased black bear sightings reported in Wisconsin and Michigan
"Wisconsin officials now estimate their black bear population is about 26,000, twice as many as previously thought, based on preliminary results of a study coordinated by the University of Wisconsin.  That’s no surprise to residents of northern Wisconsin’s Rusk County, which reported 11 bear-vehicle accidents this year through July. That’s up from eight for all of 2007."
Hearing set for Hurley man on drug charges
"A Tuesday preliminary hearing for Joel Wesley Graser Sr., 57, of Oak Street, Hurley, on two felony counts of delivery of a scheduled II controlled substance was set Wednesday in Iron County Circuit Court.
'Loon'acy reigns above all else in Mercer
"Mercer¹s heralded one-day, mid-week arts and crafts festival now fills not only several blocks of streets closed to traffic, but both sides of U.S. 51 in the downtown area as well.  The smell of brats on the grill and the din of radio broadcasting al fresco serve as a backdrop for crowds pushing baby strollers, walking leashed dogs and carrying newly acquired works of art."
Animal sounds
"The North Lakeland Discovery Center in Manitowish Waters will present Animal Sounds: Identifying the Unknown, Monday, Aug. 18 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The cost is $8 for members; $10 for others; $5 for youth ages 16 and younger; and a family rate is available."
Less Than One Month Left to Add Cell Phones to No Call List
" If you wait until next month to sign up your cell phone number, it won't be on the No Call List until January.  Registration for cell phones and landlines is required every two years. "
No Call List Website
17% in Wisconsin think U.S. is going right direction, survey says
"The 17% who said the country is “generally going in the right direction” is the lowest figure recorded in 18 surveys by the organization going back to November 1993 — and far lower than the comparable number (44%) two months before the 2004 election. While 17% said the country was going in the right direction, 73% said “things have gotten pretty seriously off on the wrong track.”"
State makes new bid for Rainbow Springs
"Frank said the purchase would open up new outdoor recreation opportunities for southeastern Wisconsin, including the 38-acre Rainbow Springs Lake, a deep and spring-fed lake that feeds into the Mukwonago River and supports rare fish, mussels, aquatic plants and a healthy trout population, a DNR report for the purchase says."
Wis. school linked to address on anthrax envelopes
"A search warrant affidavit unsealed Wednesday says suspect Bruce Ivins may have been referring to the Greendale Baptist Academy in Greendale, Wisconsin, just outside of Milwaukee.  The affidavit says Ivins was a member of the American Family Association, a conservative Christian ministry that got involved in a 1999 lawsuit on behalf of the parents of a fourth grade student at the school."
State fund will help preserve Military Ridge prairie
"The funds will be used to expand Thomson Prairie, part of the Barneveld Prairie State Natural Area within the heart of the Military Ridge Prairie Heritage Area, an extensive grassland landscape supporting a high concentration of prairie and oak savanna remnants."
State milk price seen plunging below U.S. average
GOP Blocks Energy Breaks - Wind Energy News
"On Wednesday, for the fourth time this summer, Republicans stopped the Senate from taking up tax credits to an array of renewable energy producers. Major business groups have implored Congress to act on the tax credits, many which expired at the end of last year or will run out at the end of this year. The Bush White House, citing new taxes and other objections to the bill, threatened a presidential veto."
[This is only one of 90 odd Republican filibusters this session. - Bob]
 

06 Aug

  
Iron County Food Pantry welcomes public
"Pantry volunteers and board members, officials from Iron County and the Hurley Chamber of Commerce, and other dignitaries helped cut the ribbon at 1 p.m.  With 11 volunteers assisting food pantry coordinator Dorothy Walesewicz, she said, "It is a valuable asset that we have in Iron County, and it¹s all done by volunteers. We have no administrative costs.""
Cap on Paavo relay teams lifted
"The cap on the number of five-person relay teams for Saturday's Paavo Nurmi Marathon has been lifted.  Several people have already been turned away after the limit of 50 teams was reached. They can now register, since the 50-team cap is no longer in effect."
Electric vehicles allowed in Ashland
"The vehicle, the use of which is now allowed in the city after the council changed a city ordinance, can run for at least four hours on a full, 110-volt charge."
Erratic climate predicted
"Where trees persist, Notaro’s model predicts that deciduous forests should expand, owing to their ability to shed leaves to cope with harsh conditions, while evergreen trees, which retain year-round leaves or needles, are expected to diminish."
First step to battle ash borer: Quarantine
"Mick Skwarok, a spokesman for the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, also said the agency will order a quarantine of Ozaukee County, probably Washington County and potentially other counties before the end of the week as a first step in trying to stop the invasive pest."
Ashland sheriff says fireworks killed 2 teens
"Ashland County Sheriff John Kovach said according to witnesses, it appeared that the two were attempting to use an improvised fireworks device to blow a 55-gallon drum in the air when the device detonated prematurely.  "There are reasons for the laws they have about fireworks," he said."
State's wolf population expands habitat 
"Mladenhoff says that years ago, when the state's herd numbered less than 100, the wolves lived in northern Wisconsin in an area with relatively few roads.  He says some of the wolves may wander to central and southern Wisconsin, but they prefer more undisturbed areas like the northern region of the state."
McDonald's Corp. Responds to Rumors of a Corporate Policy to Exclusively Air FOX News
"McDonald's is certainly less partisan than FOX News. In fact, just a couple of weeks ago, McDonald's was hit with a boycott from a prominent organization in the religious right. But by following the money, one can see where the true sympathies of McDonald's Corp. lie.  According to the FEC, McDonald's PAC has donated at least $191,000 to the House and Senate Republican re-election committees in the past 10 years. In 1998, the PAC donated $2,500 directly to Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain's senatorial campaign."
 

05 Aug

  
Obama and the Race Card
With all the talk about Obama playing the race card last week with his comment/joke about his picture on the dollar bill,  people should make sure they see this ad posted by the McCain campaign a full month earlier... on June 27th, where McCain says   Obama doesn't look like a lot of things in the US, including the dollar.  Looks to me like, when whining about the race card, McCain is dealing from the bottom of the deck.  What else is up his sleave?
Hurley man seriously hurt in Saturday construction accident
"A Hurley man was injured Saturday morning while he was working on the Spider's Bar building on Silver Street.  According to an 8:30 a.m. Saturday Hurley Police Department report, Tim Colassaco was pinched between the equipment he was operating."
State Fuel 
"he state has spent nearly 30 percent more to fuel its fleet of vehicles so far this year compared to 2007.  The Department of Administration's Jim Langdon says through June of this year, the state spent $7.7 million on gas to keep the state fleet running. That compares with $5.9 percent during the same time last year."
Wolves Kill Northwoods Dog
"Some say the DNR isn't accurately reporting the size and location of the wolf population.  Everson says, "Wolves are popping up in areas that the DNR doesn't admit that there are wolves in."  But DNR officials say they're doing what they can to track wolves and keep community members safe, including euthanizing problem wolves."
Doyle’s goal for job cuts is unmet
"When he first ran for governor in 2002, Jim Doyle said his goal would be to shrink the size of the state work force to 1987 levels over the course of four budgets - amounting to about 10,000 jobs in eight years.  But nearly three-quarters of the way through his first two terms, the number of state government jobs will have fallen by 2,730 jobs by the end of the budget that expires June 30, 2009."
Emerald ash borer found in Wisconsin
"The emerald ash borer, the destructive metallic green beetle that has killed 40 million trees from Maryland to Missouri since 2002, has been discovered on private land near the Village of Newburg in Ozaukee County."
DNR still lagging in inspecting Wisconsin dams
"The millpond is among 32 potentially hazardous dams in Wisconsin that state engineers have not fully inspected in the past 10 years. About 19% of the state's dams have not been inspected within that time frame."
Daily Kos: State of the Nation
"While he is accusing Obama of using the race card, is he sneaking the ultimate fear card through the back door? How far of a stretch is it for fundamentalist Americans to truly believe that a black liberal with a Muslim name could be the spawn of Satan himself?  Having read the initial book in this series myself and living in the heart of the bible belt, I know the unfortunate truth. Many ultra right wingers have already been preying upon this fear. Now, with this new attack, McCain seems to be attempting to feed that monster."
Multiple Oil Company Executives Gave Huge Contributions To Electing McCain Just Days After Offshore Drilling Reversal - TPM
"Nine of these contributions, seven from Hess executives and two from members of the Hess family, came on the same day, June 24th, the records show. The total collected in the wake of McCain's reversal for the fund, called McCain Victory 2008, from Hess execs and family is $285,000.... The Washington Post reported last week that campaign contributions from oil industry execs rose in a big way in the last half of June, after McCain drew a huge amount of attention by reversing his opposition on June 16th to the federal ban on offshore drilling."
 

04 Aug

  
Presidential Politics Overshadows Bipartisan ACHIEVEMENTS By Congress
"While the national press has been focused on presidential politics, the 110th Congress has been quietly producing some significant legislation.
Some highlights include: "
Not just fair weather fans
"Storm clouds that threatened much of the afternoon finally whisked in by mid-afternoon, rattling exhibition halls where many went for shelter.  Outside on the midway, however, people still waited for cotton candy and pizza and plenty of kids rode the rides.  Temperatures dropped rapidly from the 80s, and although many in shorts and T-shirts shivered, few left."
State Foreclosures
"New figures from the tracking company ForeclosuresWI.com released Monday show nearly 14,300 filings in the first seven months of the year.  That's a 31 percent increase over the same
period last year."
Manitowoc M & A
"The Manitowoc Company said today it's agreed to sell its Marine business to an Italian ship builder for $120 million in cash... Manitowoc Marine Group is a shipbuilding, ship repair and conversion business that has facilities in Sturgeon Bay, Marinette and in Cleveland, Ohio. It has nearly 1,600 employees."
Faith’s Lodge provides solace for grieving families
"If it sounds maudlin, a little depressing, it is anything but.  There are certainly opportunities for reflection — along a wooded trail marked every few feet with inspirational quotations or on the bridge over a small brook, where families have painted and placed small rocks memorializing their late children.  But there is much living and laughing that goes on here, as well."
Wis. State Fair officials warn of bogus tickets
"After a spate of useless tickets were presented, Wisconsin State Fair officials are warning people to only buy tickets from authorized sources.  Fair spokeswoman Patrice Harris says unauthorized sellers outside the fair gates have been selling tickets that have already been scanned and used for admission."
Doyle maps out trade trips around world 
"A March memo from Doyle's commerce secretary at the time, Jack Fischer, outlines the governor's desire to take two major trade missions and a few "mini-missions" each year.  Doyle gave general approval to trips to the United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Norway, Sweden and Finland, although no firm plans have been made."
Mexican trucking program to be extended for two more years - San Diego Union Tribune,
"Opponents, including the Teamsters Union, contend that Mexican drivers are not held to the same safety standards as U.S. drivers.  The Bush administration began the program last September as the first step in complying with a provision of the North American Free Trade Agreement that requires opening the border to long haul truck traffic.  Congress passed a law last year to end the program, but U.S. transportation officials interpreted it as only applying to future pilot programs."
 

02&03 Aug

  
HOUSE PASSES BIG INCREASE IN MILEAGE COMPENSATION FOR VETERANS
"With a bipartisan majority, the House of Representatives today approved a package, put together by Seventh District Congressman Dave Obey’s (D-WI) Appropriations Committee, which increases VA mileage compensation by nearly fifty percent to help veterans who have to drive long distances to receive medical care"
Northern States Power seeks increase in rates
"Under this proposal, a typical residential electric customer would see an increase of 7.9 percent, or $6.47 a month, based on a usage of 750 kilowatt-hours. Increases for commercial and industrial customers vary depending on rate classification."
Hurley man arrested in drug bust
"The informant was given $40 in marked money. He then went to Graser's residence, where he purchased "two pills that were wrapped in a clear plastic," the complaint said.  Complaining officer Sgt. Chris Colassaco of the Hurley Police Department noted that Graser was arrested for and charged with the same counts about 18 months ago."
Fair kicks off with good cattle-viewing weather
"Today's fair highlights include performances by Scheer's Lumberjack Show at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., the Red Clay Classic Mud Run in the afternoon and music. Senior citizens 65 and older get in for $3 today."
WDNR: Deadly fish disease not spreading
"Round gobies found washed ashore on a Milwaukee Beach in June and yellow perch collected a short while later both tested positive. The diagnosis of VHS in the round gobies, an invasive fish species, represents the only instance this year in Wisconsin in which VHS was diagnosed as the cause of a fish kill."
Sexual Assault Allegations Against Niagara Shooter
"A 24 year old woman has alleged that 38 year old Scott J. Johnson sexually assaulted her at the same site he gunned down three teens the day before the shootings happened. "
Merrill hospital goes digital
""We're just keeping up with technology," Hammer said, noting the hospital typically doesn't buy "the latest and greatest" products, but rather chooses new equipment with proven track records that help doctors provide better care."
State boosts vaccination requirements for students
"Children entering grades six, nine and 12 will need one dose of Tdap, a combination vaccine that protects against tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis. In addition, those entering kindergarten and grades six and 12 will need a second dose of chicken pox vaccine..."
WSAW
Wassau		 Smooth Sailing as Great Lakes Compact Heads to Congress
"Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold held a committee hearing on the compact and noted that, despite their vastness, the Great Lakes are not an unlimited, easily replenished resource."
Supreme Court rules lawyer must pay fees in defamation case
"The high court’s decision Wednesday means that he is responsible for $87,000 plus interest and other court costs.  Donohoo represented Grant E. Storms, a Louisiana preacher, talk show host and opponent of gay rights, in a defamation suit brought against Action Wisconsin, a gay rights group. A Milwaukee judge dismissed the case and held that Donohoo had to pay the legal fees for Action Wisconsin."
What if, rape accuser asks
"A woman who reported being raped by a man suspected of killing three Michigan teens said Saturday she wonders how hard authorities tried to capture him between the time of the rape Wednesday night and the shootings Thursday evening."
Schlitz storms back onto beer scene with retro recipe
"It was called "The beer that made Milwaukee famous." Now Schlitz is making the city nostalgic.  That beer with the old-time mystique is back on shelves in bottles of its original formula in the city where it was first brewed more than a century and a half ago."
DOJ to release more records in fundraising probe
"The department released 450 pages of documents last week detailing an investigation that found campaign donations to the governor did not play a role in the decision to allow the sale of a nuclear power plant.  Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen announced a year ago he found no wrongdoing and was not bringing any charges in the case, which lasted nearly two years."
Wayward driver hits parade watchers in Sheboygan 
"... deputies discontinued the chase when they got closer to the city.  She says the driver continued into the parade route and hit some people at the 55th Annual Brat Days Parade that started at 9 a.m. It's part of Johnsonville's Brat Days."
WHAT’S NEW Robert L. Park Friday, 1 Aug 08
  • THE POPE VERSUS THE PILL: "HUMANAE VITAE" AT FORTY.
  • THE PRESIDENT VERSUS THE PILL: DEFINING "ABORTION."
  • CELL PHONES AND CANCER: DR. LARRY KING CLEARS IT UP.
  • EINSTEIN: WHAT DID HE KNOW - AND WHEN DID HE KNOW IT?
  • METAMORPHOSIS: INFAMOUS SERBIAN FUGITIVE ARRESTED.
Workers' Religious Freedom vs. Patients' Rights - Washington Post
"They are manipulating the system by manipulating the definition of the word 'abortion,' " said Susan F. Wood, a professor at George Washington University who resigned from the Food and Drug Administration over the delays in approving the nonprescription sale of Plan B. "It's another example of this administration's disregard for science and medicine in how agencies make decisions."
'JohnBoy' hits the road to prove cynics wrong - Ironwood Globe
"His ongoing coast-to-coast journey is the result of a debate with one of his South Carolina buddies. They argued about the economy and the state of the world. His friend's position was that this a nation of cynics -- that there was no way in our day and age that Wappenstein would make it by living off the land and depending on the kindness of strangers."
Lawyer suggests Scruggs got witness help from Lott - Business Wire
"''Has it been your custom and habit in prosecuting litigation to have Senator Lott contact and encourage witnesses to give false information?'' State Farm Fire & Casualty Cos. attorney Jim Robie asked, according to a transcript of the deposition.  ''I invoke my Fifth Amendment rights in response to that question,'' Zach Scruggs responded."
 

01 Aug

  
Sheriff's fees issue still murky despite AG ruling
"Although Van Hollen submitted a five-page informal opinion to Lipske on Wednesday, the attorney general did not rule on whether Bruneau should pay back the fees, or whether retention by the sheriff of half the fees is legal.   Van Hollen cites Wisconsin law that says the county board, prior to filing nomination papers for an office, "shall establish the total annual compensation for services to be paid to the officer exclusive of reimbursements for out-of-pocket expenses.""
Bednar-Clemens drops suit against Iron County
"Bednar-Clemens walked out as corporation counsel after the election in April 2006. She was officially terminated on Sept. 8, 2006, after her sick-leave and vacation time expired. Her worker's compensation claim filed in September 2006, was settled in March, but details of that settlement were not released."
Keyholing now prohibited in three Iron County towns
"Town boards in Oma, Mercer, and Sherman recently adopted ordinances prohibiting keyholing, or use of lakeshore frontage by property owners whose properties adjoins the lakeshore property in a continuous manner.  On Thursday, the Iron County Board approved those earlier adopted ordinances."
O'Dovero farm at fair for generations
"The Koosmanns are the fifth generation on the farm that has been in the family since 1926 and still bears their great-grandmother's name. An O'Dovero, she married a Flesia."
Xcel Energy files for rate increase
"The overall 8.6 percent electric rate increase request, filed with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, would affect only electricity base rates and would take effect on January 1, 2009 if approved by the PSC. It would not affect any general, administrative or employee expenses. It would also make no increase to the rate of return or profits for Xcel Energy."
Lake Superior continues creep back
"More rain events in the month of July brought Lake Superior to within 5 inches of its long-term average, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.  The lake rose another 2 inches last month, and is now 16 inches above where it was at this time last year. It is expected to rise a little more in August."
Lake Superior Water Level 
"With the higher water, the Corps' International Lake Superior Board of Control planned to increase the amount of water allowed to flow into Lakes Michigan and Huron, which have the same level and remain 13 inches below the long-term average.  The Michigan-Huron level rose an inch in July and is eight inches higher than a year ago."
Breaking News: Man Kills 3, Suspected Gunman is in Custody
"A massive search is over in northeastern Wisconsin for a camouflaged gunman who fatally shot three people and wounded a fourth as a group of young adults were gathered near a river."
Applicants for professional licenses must give immigration status
"Credential forms will include a new section that asks an applicant to certify under penalty of law that they are either a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien or non-immigrant here legally.  All new applicants must supply the information, and people with existing licenses will verify their status the next time they renew their credentials, said department spokesman David Carlson.  Those who don’t provide such information will not be issued licenses, he said."
Congressman raises concerns over Great Lakes Compact
"“I am seeking to clarify if international trade law and obligations will have any jurisdiction should we enact the compact into federal law,” Stupak wrote to the IJC, a binational commission that oversees U.S. and Canadian boundary water issues."
No Doyle impropriety in nuclear power plant sale
"State investigators interviewed more than two dozen people and reviewed thousands of pages of documents but found no evidence that Gov. Jim Doyle had improperly influenced decisions on the sale of a nuclear power plant, newly released records show."
Wis. governor says no to coal for power plants
"The announcement means that a 1950s-era plant and one built in 1902 will have to be shut down and refitted to burn something other than coal, Feyerherm said. She expected work at the plants to begin within months.  "This is truly welcome, significant news and is another important step to ensuring Dane County citizens are able to breathe clean, safe air," said county executive Kathleen Falk. "This is the right thing for our public health.""
Every sperm is sacred: Draft rules from feds stir - Capitol Times
"For starters, the draft rules, as leaked to and reported in the New York Times, would require clinics to certify that they would not refuse to hire staff who object to abortion and birth control.  But the regulations go a step further by redefining abortion as "any of the various procedures -- including the prescription, dispensing and administration of any drug or the performance of any procedure or any other action -- that results in the termination of the life of a human being in utero between conception and natural birth, whether before or after implantation.""
Milbank accuses Obama of "hubris" while cropping quotes, making false insinuations, and neglecting basic reporting
"[O]ne leadership aide said the full quote put it into a different context. According to that aide, Obama said, "It has become increasingly clear in my travel, the campaign -- that the crowds, the enthusiasm, 200,000 people in Berlin, is not about me at all. It's about America. I have just become a symbol.""

MyHurley.net
All rights reserved by:
Robert Lemon, WegoWeb, Inc.
527 Claremont, West Chicago, IL 60185-2107
ph 630-231-3152.

1060 La Rue Ct., Hurley, WI, 54534
 ph 715-561-2559