Local News - June 2008 - WegoWeb.net
Source... Click on the title to read the article at its original source.
30 Sept  
OBEY RELUCTANTLY SUPPORTS FINANCIAL RESCUE PACKAGE
"Seventh District Congressman Dave Obey (D-WI) said today that “like most Americans, I’m mad as hell that the reckless deregulatory binge of the last decade has led us to the point we find ourselves in today, but I reluctantly supported the financial rescue package that’s before Congress because it contains provisions that offer more protections to the taxpayers than the President’s original proposal and the alternative of doing nothing will put the economic security of virtually every American family and business at unnecessary risk.”"
Hurley plans busy homecoming week
"A week of homecoming activities will end with the football game Friday night against Baraga. The homecoming king and queen will be crowned at the game.  Other dressup days this week include Tuesday, 80s day; Wednesday class color day, Thursday mis-match day and Friday the traditional school colors spirit day."
Judge: Gray wolves stay on list
"A federal court Monday overturned the Bush administration’s decision to remove gray wolves in the western Great Lakes region from the endangered species list.  U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman in Washington, D.C., sided with environmental groups that accused the government of misreading the law last year when it lifted federal protections for about 4,000 wolves in Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin."
Doyle in Germany Update
"The statement says that both Doyle and German officials agree that climate change and fossil fuel dependence require immediate action.  They say low-carbon technology and the reduction of greenhouse gasses must be pursued."
Tribal Court Trial Hearing
"Reynolds tells Newswatch 12, "The judge said I don't have to give you the opportunity to call witnesses, that's discretionary, and I don't have to give you a chance to brief your case, that's discretionary."  Betty Jack is one of the candidates taken of the ballot. She says she fears for future generations."
Judge overturns decision to remove wolves from endangered list
"The ruling immediately halts the practice of killing wolves that threaten livestock and pets in the three states.  Forty-five wolves have been killed in Wisconsin this year, either by government personnel, at the request of landowners, or by landowners themselves, a state official said."
Coast Guard adjusts cargo sweeping rules
"For many years, ships have used high-powered hoses to wash their decks after loading or dropping off cargo in port. They're believed to wash 1 million pounds of coal, iron ore and other material into the lakes every year.  The shipping industry says cargo sweeping does no harm, but environmental groups want it stopped."
Farmers not having problem getting ag credit
""The fundamentals of agriculture right now, in terms of income and opportunities, is good. There are profits to be made, so I think that is underpinning the willingness to lend to that sector," said Jason Henderson, a branch executive with the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City."
New home sales plummet in August, prices tumble
"It was a much bigger sales decline than the small 1 percent drop that economists had been expecting. The average price of a new home sold in August dropped by a record amount of 11.8 percent to $263,900, compared to the July average of $299,100. The median price was also down, falling 5.5 percent to $221,900."
Church rejects complaints against Finnish minister who blessed same-sex couple - HELSINGIN SANOMAT
"The Cathedral Chapter of the Espoo Diocese of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church on Monday rejected complaints submitted to it against Lutheran minister Liisa Tuovinen for officiating at a moment of prayer held on behalf of a female couple in July. The event was held at a parish camp centre in Espoo. "
 

29 Sept

  
Leader Alert program implemented at Hurley
"Parents can be notified of emergencies, school closings, meetings, delays and other announcements with the system.  It can also be used to set up separate groups for notification. Committees, athletic teams, parent groups and other groups can be notified individually of announcements immediately."
Schools awarded September Target funds
"Through Take Charge of Education, families, teachers and members of the community raise money for their school when they sign up and designate an eligible K-12 school. Target donates up to 1 percent of every purchase they make with their Target credit card to that school."
Hurley hammers Bessemer
"The Midgets (3-2 overall, 2-2 GWC) scored at will in the first half en route to a 51-0 lead. Bessemer falls to 1-4, 1-4.  Jake Rowe scored on runs of 22 and 19 yards, respectively, in the first quarter, and Josh Thiede connected with Cody Kivisto for a 36-yard TD pass in the opening frame as the Midgets led 22-0. "
State patrol, Red Clay racers meet
"For the second year in a row, troopers of the Wisconsin State Patrol have been pulling over and citing trucks hauling trailers containing race cars bound for Ashland's Red Clay Classic stock car races.  According to Iron River Chief of Police Rick Zenz, at least four State Patrol cars took up station Friday morning and began pulling over vehicles and citing drivers."
Doyle in Germany
"He's speaking tomorrow in Berlin at international conference on trans-Atlantic climate and energy cooperation organized by the German government.  Doyle also plans to meet with renewable technology companies."
Great Lakes Program 
"The House voted 411-9 Sunday in favor of the measure approving $54 million a year over the next two years for the project.  The original five-year bill, passed in 2003, was to expire this year."
Merrill soldier’s mom defends Obama’s mention of bracelet
"Obama said. “The question for the next president is, are we making good judgments about how to keep America safe, precisely because sending our military into battle is such an enormous step.”  It was an answer that Tracy Jopek said made her proud."
Snowmobilers jump the season on winter sports
"They race their sleds on green grass and hit speeds of 100 mph.  The Trailmates Snowmobile Club sponsored the Wausau Grass Drag over the weekend. Bragging rights and $1,000 were on the line."
Milfred: Don't shoot your newspaper
"That's right, folks. Both news articles ran in the same spot with virtually the same presentations. The only bias was our newspaper's extreme commitment to fairness.  Go ahead and argue, if you want to, that the speeches deserved to be on the front page. (Our top news editors, after considerable debate, didn't think so because so many readers had already heard the speech and extensive reaction the night before on TV, radio and the Web.)"
'Please listen,' say veterans of Iraq war 
"Over the past year, IVAW has held a handful of similar panels across the country in an effort to mobilize opposition to the war. Several of the veterans on the panels said that they hoped their stories about the reality of war and the difficulties of coming home again would correct the official accounts of events overseas."
Crowd rallies for more green jobs
"Activists for government action on climate change marched down State Street Saturday promoting more “green jobs,” with leaders calling it “the biggest issue of our century, of our generation.”  The event was organized by 1Sky, an organization seeking to unite people across the nation on the global warming issue."
Bishop says the "worm has turned" after Indian Christians attack Hindu - Times of London
"Beleaguered Christians in India have "run out of cheeks to be struck" a senior Anglican bishop declared yesterday, on hearing reports that a Christian mob had hacked a Hindu to death in the troubled state of Orissa."
Economists say House GOP plan would be ineffective, costly - McClatchy
"The problem with the House GOP plan — which as of late Friday boiled down to a page or two of talking points — is that it doesn't get at what is ailing the U.S. economy right now. That's a lack of confidence that's causing credit markets to seize up and raising the cost of doing business for corporate America, thus threatening jobs."
Pistol Packin' Palin - Walt Handelsman
"Republican Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin is gunning for the Democrats."
 

27&28 Sept

  
OBEY PUSHES STIMULUS FOR MAIN STREET
"Seventh District Congressman Dave Obey (D-WI), the Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, today introduced an economic stimulus package designed to encourage economic growth and help Main Street America deal with the economic turmoil."
OBEY STATEMENT ON MAIN STREET STIMULUS PACKAGE
"Seventh District Congressman Dave Obey made the following statement on the House Floor this evening on the Main Street Stimulus package he authored."
1st Annual Gogebic-Iron County Horse Show Results
"The 1st Annual Gogebic-Iron County Horse Show was held on Sunday, September 21st at the Iron County Fairgrounds in Saxon.  Proceeds from this event will be used for improvements to the Horse Arena and buildings."
Landowner 'freezes' out Trail 77 access
"In an Aug. 19 letter to the owners of Joany's Sidekicks and Bernie's Hideaway, town chairman Dan Soine informed both bar owners that the town's temporary route on MacKinnon Street from Severance Street up to Snake Track was closed to snowmobile traffic."
Practice makes perfect for bow hunters
""Hunting with a bow and arrow is not like riding a bike. You forget over the year and you can get hurt if you venture out without taking time to review and practice those skills," said Tim Lawhern, Department of Natural Resources Hunter Education administrator, and a bow hunter himself.
Students just hangin' out
"Four ropes hang from the top of the wall over routes of different difficulty.  Rodriguez said the climb wasn't so hard, but it takes upper body strength and some climbers tire.  Those who reached the top received honorary, temporary military rank and could order classmates to drop and do pushups."
Midgets rout Speedboys
"An explosive first half vaulted Hurley to a 57-13 win over Bessemer at Massie Field on Friday in Great Western Conference play... The Midgets finished the night with 346 yards of total offense. Hurley had 258 yards on the ground on 38 carries."
Alcohol Use on the Rise
"How do you deal with today's high prices? In tough economic times, research shows more people are turning to alcohol.  Dr. Harriet Walker is a licensed Psychologist with Koller Behavorial Health Services. She says, "We know in times of stress people tend to turn to those things they found give them comfort in the past.""
Colleges to perform some environmental oversight
"Some 16 of Wisconsin’s private colleges have signed agreements with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the state Department of Natural Resources allowing the schools to perform their own compliance audits for seven major environmental laws, officials announced Thursday."
Ithica area evacuated after chemicals found
"Emergency crews evacuated a three-mile area of Richland County so they could dispose of flammable and explosive chemicals stored on a late chemist's property."
Wis. lawmaker sees need for law on 'puppy mills'
"The Eau Claire Democrat was at the sale where about 150 dogs were auctioned off Wednesday. Many went to rescue groups that oppose the sales but buy the dogs so they can be treated for health problems and placed in good homes."
  More roads to be open in northern Wis. forest 
"Forest Supervisor Jeanne Higgins says the change adds access to another 205 miles. She says the new plan will open about 2,360 miles of roads and 330 miles of trails to vehicles, including ATVs, in January.  About 4,600 miles of forest service-owned roads are open to vehicles now, but the agency says some roads that get little use and have not been maintained are being closed."

WHAT’S NEW   Robert L. Park   Friday, 26 Sep 08

  • LHC: THE WORLD SURVIVED, BUT DID THE TRUTH TAKE A HIT?

  • NASA: REMIND ME AGAIN, WHY DID WE BUILD THE ISS?

  • SHENZHOU: A MODEST SPACE PROPOSAL.

  • EARMARKS:  SCIENCE FINDS ITSELF LOCKED OUT AGAIN.

  • PULPIT FREEDOM SUNDAY: WHAT IN THE NAME OF GOD?
Lawsuit rejected in case of priest who killed two - Leader-Telegram - Eau Claire,WI
"Lenz, in an oral ruling, said it was "too remote" to think the diocese would have any reason to believe the Rev. Ryan Erickson would kill someone based on the information it had before the double murder occurred.  Even if the diocese did have information about Erickson's suspected temper, child pornography and violent tendencies, Lenz said, "it would appear such negligence would not have brought about such harm.""
McCain Wins Debate
"Although the fate of tonight's presidential debate in Mississippi remains very much up in the air, John McCain has apparently already won it -- if you believe an Internet ad an astute reader spotted next to this piece in the online edition of the Wall Street Journal this morning."
Jack Cafferty on Palin
"I'm 65 and have been covering politics, as you have, for a long time and that is one of the most pathetic pieces of tape I have ever seen for someone aspiring to one of the highest offices..."

 
The Canadian Solution - Information Clearing House
"A similar subprime crisis has been solved in Canada, without costing the government and Canadian taxpayers a single cent. Although such a solution, i.e. transforming most of the subprime mortgage-back securities into medium term debentures, would have to be adapted to the peculiar American situation, this can be done. "
26 Sept  
Midgettes rally to edge Tigers
""We came out flat," Hurley coach Liz Constantini said. "Mercer was extremely fired up. Give Mercer credit, they were fired up and did not give up. Once we saw how fired up they were, then we fired up."  Mercer won the first two sets, 25-12 and 25-23."
Crenna to share expertise in cuisine class
"It is a comprehensive cooking class focusing on authentic recipes of the Mediterranean region. Students will be asked to provide some supplies, cooking utensils and a weekly supply fee to the instructor."
Harvest Festival set for Oct. 11
"The Saxon-Gurney Community Church will hold its annual Harvest Festival Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Saxon Community Building.  The doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and an auction will start at 7 p.m."
Hurley announces homecoming events
"The Hurley K-12 school will celebrate fall homecoming Monday through Friday, Oct. 3.  There will be lunchtime games, dress-up days and the class penny jar competition."
WI Congressman Sponsor of Alternative Financial Plan
"Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan is a chief sponsor of the House Republicans' alternative plan to bail out the struggling financial system."
Scientists solve some safety issues in reprogrammed cells
"The latest advance by scientists at Harvard continues a yearlong surge of discovery and draws the stem cell field closer to one of its great goals: a cell that is safe for human use and offers the power of an embryonic stem cell without destruction of the embryo. Such a technology could someday allow doctors to heal patients using their own reprogrammed cells."
Disaster responders hold dress rehearsal for weather-induced Interstate traffic jam
"The response to the Feb. 5-7 disaster was criticized as slow and inefficient, and as a result of an investigation, Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar ordered the Wisconsin National Guard and Wisconsin Emergency Management to develop Thursday's exercise."
Debt collection top consumer complaint in U.S. 
"Not surprisingly in tough economic times, debt collection was the top category of complaint by U.S. consumers in 2007, according to the National Association of Attorneys General.  Debt collection was second in 2006, NAAG said in a news release."
Ready, set, start cooking! Annual Beef-A-Rama on tap this weekend
"The "Parade of Roasts" begins promptly at 2:45 p.m. as the competitors showcase their creatively decorated beef down the street alongside the Milwaukee Brewers Racing Klement's Sausages.  The roasts will be evaluated for taste, presentation and appearance by celebrity judges..."
Charity Floods Swing States With Anti-Islam DVD
"It's called Obsession: Radical Islam's War Against the West. The DVD was made in 2006, before this presidential contest began, and it doesn't even allude to electoral politics.  But, filled with dire warnings about Islamic terrorists, it hit doorsteps seven weeks before Election Day. And critics say it fuels the false whisper campaign that Barack Obama is secretly a Muslim."
Keeping Quiet? - FactCheck.org
"A new McCain-Palin ad says that "McCain and his congressional allies led" on the financial crisis while Obama was "mum." That's simply not true:  Obama has in fact made several statements about the crisis on Wall Street in recent days, delivering his most specific remarks on how government regulations should be changed on Sept. 22, a day before this ad was released."
 

25 Sept

  
  Jauch and Sherman Praise Funding for Madeline Island Bicycle Lane Project
"The Town of La Pointe and Ashland County will soon be able to provide bicyclists with safer passage of County Highway H into Big Bay State Park as a result of a $608,800 Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) grant, State Senator Bob Jauch (D-Poplar) and State Representative Gary Sherman (D-Port Wing) said today in a meeting with local officials to discuss the project."
Obey: Bailout necessary for consumer confidence
"Congressman Dave Obey Wednesday told reporters he believes an economic bailout package is necessary or "our economy is likely to have a huge collapse." However, he believes lawmakers of both parties won't "vote for this turkey as it is.""
National forest road plan set
"A nearly three-year-long process to identify a comprehensive designated route system for motorized vehicles in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is one step closer to completion with the selection of an alternative that identifies 2,363 miles of roads and 334 miles of trails open for public motor vehicle use in the forest."
Lawton encourages AHS freshmen to enroll in program
"Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton visited Ashland High School Tuesday to urge ninth graders to enroll as Wisconsin Covenant Students by the September 30 deadline."
Cameras approved for Hurley school
"Board members agreed to purchase a computerized system that has the capacity for 32 cameras from North Star Electronics of Ironwood for $9,700, according to district administrator Chris Patritto. Only 16 cameras will be installed initially, however."
High school bands to conduct joint halftime show
"While the Hurley and Bessemer football teams fight it out on the field Friday night, the schools' bands will join forces for a halftime show at Massie Field.  The schools met Wednesday to practice together for the first time. The schools have practice on their own and will meet up again Friday."
Economic Plans & Wisconsin
"Rep. Mark Pocan, a Madison Democrat, says his party wants to spend $30 million on the state's energy independence grant program and create a 25 percent tax credit for energy research.  They also want to bar the state from contracting with companies that send jobs overseas and require oil companies and Wall Street businesses that generate money in Wisconsin to disclose their taxes."
Nonprofit donates home to injured Wisconsin veteran
"Starting today, a build brigade of volunteers will descend on a one-acre lot in a Sun Prairie subdivision to frame the house and install doors, windows, siding and roof in the next three days. Preliminary work on the house began Wednesday. The home, sponsored by Homes for Our Troops, which donated roughly $100,000 to buy the lot, will feature accommodations for Isaacson's wheelchair."
Wis. clerks not checking old voter registrations
"Many local election clerks say they're following state officials' orders and checking only new voter registrants despite Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen's lawsuit.  Van Hollen's suit demands clerks check the identity of everyone registered to vote since Jan. 1, 2006 by Election Day. But the Government Accountability Board has ordered them to check only registrants since August."
Kohl proposes 'Amber Alert' for adults 
""Setting up a Silver Alert system for seniors who go missing due to Alzheimer's disease or dementia will promote the safety of our nation's seniors, while bringing peace of mind to many concerned families," said Kohl, who chairs the Senate Special Committee on Aging. "With half a million new cases of Alzheimer's every year, the need for a system of this kind will only grow.""
Palin once blessed to be free from 'witchcraft'
"The video shows Palin standing before Bishop Thomas Muthee in the pulpit of the Wasilla Assembly of God church, holding her hands open as he asked Jesus Christ to keep her safe from "every form of witchcraft."  "Come on, talk to God about this woman. We declare, save her from Satan," Muthee said as two attendants placed their hands on Palin's shoulders. "Make her way my God. Bring finances her way even for the campaign in the name of Jesus. ... Use her to turn this nation the other way around.""
George Fox reacts to effigy depicting Obama - Oregon NEws
"The president of George Fox University this morning denounced the hanging of a likeness of U.S. Sen. Barack Obama on campus along with graffiti aimed at minority recipients of a scholarship program.  President Robin Baker discussed the incident today during the twice-weekly campus service, which was packed. With dozens of Act 6 students and student leaders in front of the stage, he urged students to show that the display, found Tuesday, has no place in Christian ideals."
 

24 Sept

  
NOTICE OF MEETING IRON COUNTY FINANCE COMMITTEE
"The Iron County Finance Committee will meet on Friday, October 03, 2008 at 10:00 AM at the Iron County Courthouse, Hurley, Wisconsin."
NOTICE OF MEETING IRON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
  • Collected Sheriff Fees
  • Opposition to Forest Management Plan
  • Land access agreement between Iron County and John Bant.
  • Illegal taxes charged back to cities and towns.
  • Amend Zoning Ordinance
    • Evergreen Energy Holdings LLC, owner/applicant.
    • Rudolph & Sharon Metsch, owner/applicant
Ashland edges Midgettes
"The Midgettes were ahead early in the fifth set, but Ashland got on a roll offensively. Hurley fought back near the end of the set.  "We played a lot better than we have been," Midgettes coach Liz Constantini said. She said Ashland is a tough team, and she's glad her team took Ashland to five sets."
Triathlon set for Sunday
"Also, a cookout at the church is planned after the event. Athletes should plan their own support.  The event is sponsored by the Range Community Bible Church, Whitecap Kayak, and Steep Creek Outfitters. Kayaks are available for use by prior arrangement."
Eagle Bluff Golf
"Eagle Bluff Golf Club 2008 Men's League Results Overall Champions: "
Bayfield harvest activities pick up
""We won't have all of our varieties, because we won't be able to pick them, but we will have a sufficient supply of apples, I am sure, to take care of everyone, particularly if they are not too fussy about the variety," Olson said."
  Energy Project Grants
"The Wisconsin Energy Independence Fund announced renewable energy grants of $415,000 for two Wausau area companies, with $150,000 going to American Science and Technology Corp. in Wausau and $265,000 to Grand Meadow Energies near Stratford."
Midcareer adults boost enrollment at some technical colleges
"It's truly an opportunity for the college to respond and be able to provide for the community," Blackhawk President Eric Larson said. "Certainly there's a negative to it. We have a lot of people who are just uncertain of how they're going to make do in the future."
Wis. judge allows AG to continue voter lawsuit
"A judge says Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen can legally bring a lawsuit demanding state election officials confirm thousands of voters' identities before Election Day."
Controversial 'stem cell tourism' attracts ailing Americans 
""Medical tourism for stem cells is very controversial," said Bernard Siegel, executive director of the Genetics Policy Institute and the driving force behind the World Stem Cell Summit, which concluded its two-day run at the Alliant Energy Center's Exhibition Hall on Tuesday."
New book examines why so many are quitting church
"Many believers, she said, are sad or mad -- or both. "They say, 'Listen ... I've done everything. Now I'm in the middle of a mid-life crisis and I'm not getting any answers.' These are the people who are saying, 'I'm out of here.'"  The result of her research is a new book, "Quitting Church," that pours painful experience over a foundation of troubling statistics."
Fury at $2.5bn bonus for Lehman's New York staff
"Barclays is paying $1.75bn for the US operation of Lehman and is keen to retain its best staff. It said it had made no promises to individual staff members about how much they will receive but that the bonus fund would be paid out. In addition to the $2.5bn cash pool, Barclays is also in negotiations with about 30 executives it considers to be Lehman's best assets and plans to offer them contracts worth tens of millions of dollars."
Man held for approaching Sen. Obama's Kenwood home with gun, bulletproof vest  - Chicago Sun Times
"Charges are pending against a man who drove up to the security perimeter around Sen. Barack Obama’s home in Kenwood with a gun on the floor of his car this morning, police said.  The man also had a bulletproof vest in the car, sources said."
 

23 Sept

  
HOUSE PASSES CREDIT CARDHOLDERS BILL OF RIGHTS
"To help end unfair and abusive practices by credit card companies, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Credit Cardholders Bill of Rights today. Seventh District Congressman Dave Obey (D-WI) was a cosponsor of the consumer protection measure."
OBEY VOTES TO RATIFY GREAT LAKES COMPACT
"With today’s approval by the House, the interstate compact, which has already been ratified by all eight Great Lakes states and approved by the U.S. Senate, must now be signed into law by the President before it can take full effect."
Tree selection raises concerns in Washburn
""These trees are southern Wisconsin trees, they're non-native," resident David Bratley said during the public comment period. "I think that we as a community — and especially because we're an eco-community — we should have the choice.""
Bausch out as Iron County Highway Commissioner
""With some of the larger projects coming up, the committee felt it would be in our best interest to have new leadership in this position," he said.  Highway department secretary Tana Osterman said the department will be constructing a bridge over Alder Creek, on County E near Whitecap Mountain, next year."
Oma man facing sixth OWI charge
"A 37-year-old Oma, Wis., man was formally charged Friday night with a felony count of operating while intoxicated (sixth offense) stemming from a Sept. 14 complaint of a single gunshot on Whiteside Road in Pence, Wis."
Dry Hydrants Spread A.I.S.
"She discovered the dry hydrant problem after attending a fire chiefs meeting and realized there was no national protocol for for dealing with them. So she developed one for Oneida County and the federal government's Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force.  "It just took off nationally, and they told me to run with it, and once I came up with the protocols, to present it to them at a national level.""
House approves Great Lakes compact
"The compact, which was approved on a vote of 390-25, now moves to President Bush, who has said he will sign it. The Senate approved the compact in August.  Under the agreement, countries or remote states are barred from tapping into the lakes from their natural drainage basin with rare exceptions. It also requires states to regulate their own large-scale water use and promote conservation."
Funding could drive stem cell scientists to other states, nations
"The state of California will have 12 new stem cell institutes up and running by 2010, part of a $6 billion investment the state is making in the research. New York is investing $600 million over 11 years, Connecticut $100 million over 10 years and New Jersey is pouring $270 million into just five facilities."
Wis. AG opposes GOP try to join voter lawsuit
"The state Republican Party filed a motion yesterday to join the lawsuit, saying it wants to protect all candidates for office from fraudulent elections.  But Van Hollen, a Republican himself, contends the party has no right to get involved and the case isn't about political interests. He directed the same response to the state Democratic Party, which also wants to join the case."
Scientists stress need to continue embryonic stem cell research
"Fearful that stem cell critics are using recent advances in research to push forward their agenda as the election nears, the International Society for Stem Cell Research published an open letter urging politicians to "protect the principles of scientific freedom.""
Study Finds Major Shift in Abortion Demographics
"That translates into approximately 1 percent of white women having an abortion in 2004, compared with 3 percent of Hispanic women and 5 percent of black women. Jones attributed that to the focus on reducing teenage pregnancy and on increasing contraceptive use."
Brigade homeland tours start Oct. 1 - Army News
"The 1st BCT’s soldiers also will learn how to use “the first ever nonlethal package that the Army has fielded,” 1st BCT commander Col. Roger Cloutier said, referring to crowd and traffic control equipment and nonlethal weapons designed to subdue unruly or dangerous individuals without killing them.  “It’s a new modular package of nonlethal capabilities that they’re fielding. They’ve been using pieces of it in Iraq, but this is the first time that these modules were consolidated and this package fielded, and because of this mission we’re undertaking we were the first to get it.”"
Obama Uses Influence to Get Ethics Bill Passed in Illinois - Buzz Flash
"Obama has always set himself apart from the regular Democratic Party, but worked with them -- as he did with Republicans -- when necessary.  When he needed to, he leaned on leaders to do the right thing. That's why Illinois now has an ethics bill."
September 22, 2008 C-SPAN
Ohio Represntative Marcy Kaptur gives a pretty decent explanation of what is going on with the bail out of the markets.  It is NOT pretty. - Bob
 

22 Sept

  
High-tech credit for Hurley students
"The Hurley School Board recently approved a five-year deal with Preps on the Net.com and Friday night's Wakefield-Hurley game was scheduled to be the first one to be offered live on the Internet."
Community education fall classes slated
"Hurley School District's Community Education Department, in partnership with Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College, is offering the following classes at the Hurley K-12 School this fall."
Silver Express members named
"The members selected are Maria Filz, Erin Gulan, Erika Hamlin, Tara Kasper, Mike Kitto, John Kutz, Adam Mabie, Lydia Patritto, Alex Polkinghorne, Mason Schulze, Taylor Stella, Paige Wendt, Seanna Whalen and Kristina Williams."
Story brings to mind another cross-country trek
"Laredo Sola, who was fresh out of college and had moved to Vermont, was home visiting his parents in the house he grew up in. He made the trip in reverse -- from Kimball to the East. He, too, had adventures and misadventures on his trip, including flat tires and broken chains.  The chance these two young men grew up in the same house is pretty slim, one would think.  But it's true: The Solas were the previous owners of the Hagemann residence."
Stand-up desks provide a firm footing for fidgety students
"As part of a small but growing movement in northern Wisconsin and Minnesota that many teachers say is bound to gain popularity elsewhere, several schools are experimenting with their physical learning environments by incorporating stand-up workstations in the classroom, or, in one school, stability balls instead of traditional school desk chairs."
Ex-attorney general loses appeal on bill drafts
"Lautenschlager called it “curious” that Kessler, whose husband, Fred, is a member of the Assembly, wrote the opinion for the three-judge panel.  Lautenschlager noted that the appellate court “never got into the merits” of her original claim that drafting records of bills before they are introduced in the Legislature are subject to the open records law. That legal question remains unresolved, she said."
State may fund teaching Indian languages
"The proposal by state schools Superintendent Libby Burmaster comes at a critical time. Native languages have come to the edge of extinction here but a handful of tribal pioneers are also having their first success in teaching the languages to children in more than a generation."
Women are on to Palin
"What's up with Palin? The governor's overall favorable rating has fallen to just 40 percent in the CBS/New York Times survey -- down four points from last week. Palin's unfavorable rating is up eight points to 30 percent. But the shift is even more dramatic among women, with whom Palin's star has fallen 11 points in one week."
Voter registration lawsuit hits bump
"“The same day in which Van Hollen denied any contacts with Republicans regarding lawsuit, Republican Party of Wisconsin’s attorney Chris Mohrman said there may have been multiple contacts to multiple people,” said Alec Loftus, press secretary for the Democratic Party of Wisconsin."
Meanwhile, the Other No. 2 Keeps On Punching - NY Times
"As the economy reels, Senator Joseph R. Biden Jr. — the Other Running Mate — has been absolutely butchering Senator John McCain across the Rust Belt this week. It is not clear who has noticed."
McCain’s Political Style - the American Conservative
"McCain exploits the concept of honor and frames every disagreement in terms of honor and dishonor, so it is particularly revealing that he is willing to launch dishonest and dishonorable attacks, because this drives home how much his concept of honor is intertwined with his own visceral reactions to opponents and with his self-interest. "
 

20&21 Sept

  
New pastor to lead tri-parish
"The Rev. Robert Oberg was ordained and installed as pastor of the tri-parish of First Lutheran in Ashland, St. Paul¹s Lutheran Church in Hurley and Bethany Lutheran Church in Bruce Crossing, Mich., on Aug. 31, at St. Paul¹s."
Midgets stop Cardinals 44-0
"The Hurley Midgets used a big second quarter to beat the Wakefield-Marenisco-Watersmeet Cardinals 44-0 Friday in Great Western Conference action at Veteran's Memorial Field in Hurley."
Wednesday hike planned at Copper Falls
"Women and Kids Outdoors is sponsoring a hike Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Copper Falls State Park near Mellen.  It will be an informal hike and participants will be encouraged to walk at their own pace, as far as they would like."
Group organizes around sustainable At Station plans
"According to one of the group's organizers, Will Pipkin, the group is "a real mix of people," all of whom share a vision for the Ag Station as a place that can serve as a central location for activities as diverse as local foods, sustainable agriculture, food processing and agricultural research."
ABC prepped for 33rd Red Clay Classic
"One of the region's longest-running and most prestigious end-of-season dirt-track stock car racing events will feature WISSOTA-sanctioned late models, modifieds and super stocks in a complete two-day event. As many as 200 competitors are expected to vie for a total cash purse in excess of $70,000."
Wisconsin Bass Classic
"Minocqua is full of anglers looking to win the Wisconsin Classic Bass Fishing tournament.  While they're enjoying the 2-day tournament, businesses in Minocqua are enjoying the economic boost."
Book presents snapshot of Wisconsin’s eco-system
"“Vanishing Present” offers a snapshot of the state’s eco-system, including many positive examples, such as growing populations of bald eagles, wolves and sandhill cranes and the decline of atrazine, mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls.  But co-editors Donald M. Waller and Thomas P. Rooney conclude it is hard to be optimistic."
Wis. unemployment rate is down from national rate
"Wisconsin's unemployment rate for August was 4.7 percent, compared to the national rate of 6.1 percent.  The state Department of Workforce Development reports the state rate was unchanged from August 2007 and down 0.1 percentage points from July."
Wis. DNR board to consider spending requests 
"The agency isn't calling for any increases in hunting, fishing or camping fee increases in the requests. But the decision isn't final.  DNR budget director Joe Polasek says the agency wants to see how much revenue deer hunting sales generate in November and year-end camping revenue totals before making the final call."
Heating home will cost more this winter, Alliant forecasts 
"The price of natural gas per decatherm has fallen nearly $6, or almost in half, since its near record high in early July, but the price remains high, Alliant said in its monthly Natural Gas Update newsletter. A decatherm is enough natural gas to heat an average home for four and a half days.  Mild temperatures, increasing production and lower oil prices all have contributed to the price decline."
Palin linked electoral success to prayer of Kenyan witchhunter - TimesOnLine
“And I’m thinking, this guy’s really bold, he doesn’t even know what I’m going to do, he doesn’t know what my plans are. And he’s praying not “oh Lord if it be your will may she become governor,” no, he just prayed for it. He said “Lord make a way and let her do this next step. And that’s exactly what happened.”
McCain on banking and health - Paul Krugman, New York Times
"So McCain, who now poses as the scourge of Wall Street, was praising financial deregulation like 10 seconds ago — and promising that if we marketize health care, it will perform as well as the financial industry!"
Truthiness Stages a Comeback - Frank Rich, NY Times
"If you doubt that the big lies are sticking, look at the latest Washington Post/ABC News poll. Half of voters now believe in the daily McCain refrain that Obama will raise their taxes. In fact, Obama proposes raising taxes only on the 1.9 percent of households that make more than $250,000 a year and cutting them for nearly everyone else."

 
 

19 sept

  
Hurley eyesores tackled
"One case in point is a house at 307 Fifth Ave. N., which is beyond repair. It would cost the owner of the property about $4,200 to remove the structure, Soine said. The owner would like to turn over ownership of the property to the city, but the city would have to pay more to get it razed because additional demolition restrictions are placed on municipalities."
  • Mellen drops Hurley
    "The Mellen Granite Diggers pummeled the Hurley Midgettes 25-10, 25-15 and 25-20 in Indianhead Conference volleyball action Thursday at the Hurley K-12 School."
  • Midgettes win first conference meet
    "The Hurley girls won their first Indianhead Conference cross country meet of the season in Washburn at the Valhalla Ski Trails Thursday.  The Midgettes had four girls finish in the top 10 and all seven members of the team finished in the top 15."
  • Devils win tennis meet
    "Hurley's always fun to play," Ironwood coach Annette Burchell said. "They're very competitive and play with a lot of heart and spirit.
Ironwood grad to talk athletic training Sunday
"Jake Bonacci, a 2001 Luther L. Wright graduate, will be at the Hurley school Sunday to talk about the newer methods of athletic training. He looks to help students become better athletes through modern training methods.  The 6 p.m. presentation is for coaches, physical education teachers and student athletes. "
Local couple to give China trip presentation
"The Millers, of Erwin Township in Gogebic County, traveled to China this summer with an organization that sends Christians to teach in that country for five weeks."
Ashland County rejects advisory health referendum
"Carlson told the board that while the referendum was purely advisory and could not compel the state legislature to act on health care he said it would place considerable political pressure on legislators to act on health care legislation like that approved by the Wisconsin State Senate last year."
Iron River campground proposal taken off the table
"I think that's something Iron River needs to look at themselves," he said. "As far as other developments, maybe it's people being anti-four-wheeler, maybe people being anti-campground, maybe it's people being anti-business, I don't know. All I know is we have no interest in putting any business in that area or spending any more money into business in that area either."
Oneida County has millions in uninsured deposits
"According to a 2007 FDIC report, FDIC-insured commercial banks held $289.7 billion in deposits for state and local governments nationwide in 2006, and only 24 percent of that was insured - not much better than right here at home."
Forest Roads Closed 
"Suzanne Flory is a public affairs officer with the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. She says, "There are a lot of roads on the forest, thousands of miles of roads, that are un-authorized, a lot of these roads may become unavailable for motorized use.""
WI Bridge Inspections
"Brian Gaber, a bridge supervisor with the D.O.T. says, "Our routine inspection makes sure our bridges are safe. That's our primary concern and our inspections include things and we inspect components that ensure that our bridges are in good working order.""
GOP lawyer pushed state to check voters
"But Chris Mohrman, an attorney for the Republican Party, said he complained to the Department of Justice about how the state was handling checks on voter data. The complaint came after an Aug. 27 meeting of the Government Accountability Board, at which the board refused to enact a rule on checking voter information requested by Mohrman on behalf of the party."
House OKs Great Lakes cleanup bill
"Moore noted that while there has been some progress in reducing the discharge of toxic chemicals into the lakes, high concentrations still remain at the bottom of rivers and harbors in the region.  The House bill would triple the annual funding available for Great Lakes cleanup. The Senate would have to act before the bill could become law."
Motorists beware: It's deer season 
"Although vehicle vs. deer crashes are not unusual in Wisconsin, the chill in the air and the changing colors should remind us it's time to change our driving habits," Schaffer said. "The hours of daylight are fewer, farm equipment traffic is increasing on rural roads and deer are on the move."
MMS: 49 offshore platforms destroyed by Hurricane Ike - Houston Business Journal
"The 49 platforms, which may have sustained damage without actually sinking, together produced about 13,000 barrels of oil per day, and 84 million cubic feet of natural gas per day... Helicopter flyovers to date have not revealed any shorelines impacted by oil spills."
FEMA Says No More Ice After Storms - WCIV-TV, Mount Pleasant, SC
"Up to 85 million pounds of ice was wasted following Katrina, costing $12 million. The agency decided in April it would only provide ice in medical emergencies or life threatening situations."
 

18 Sept

  
Senior Expo - 2008
"The Health care providers were on hand with plenty of information needed by seniors. There were  Free Health Screenings available for those seniors visiting the Expo. Several Financial Advisors were also on hand for those seniors needing sound financial advice.  The Annual "Fettuccine Feed" took place at the Aging Unit of Iron County."
[This is a great article... exactly what community journalism should be all about.  Lou and the folks that help him at IronwoodInfo should be applauded and thanked. - Bob]
Montreal takes first step for repairing sewer lines
"Montreal entered into the first phase of its $330,000 sewer rehabilitation project on Tuesday, as council members approved the $29,600 design and field work portion of the project.  The design and field work will be done by Becher-Hoppe Associates, Inc., of Wausau."
Montreal eyes wood-burning emissions ordinance
"With more homeowners turning to heating their homes with wood as fuel prices continue to rise, Schumacher emphasized that he is not seeking a ban on wood burners.  He wants an ordinance adopted that will regulate the emission "from all wood-burning appliances in the city, both indoor and outdoor, for the health and safety of citizens.""
Bayfield County Jail adds solar power
"While the price-tag, $65,000, might seem a bit steep, this was after savings realized thanks to the state's Focus on Energy program. And for every $1 invested in the solar heating system, the county administrator said they will realize savings anywhere from $1.15 to $1.20. This is at current costs for fuel. If these go up in the future, more savings will be realized."
$3.4 Million in Energy Aid 
"State officials say the money comes from the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.  Those funds are administered to the states through the Department of Health and Human Services."
Nonpartisan task force will investigate voter fraud allegations
"District Attorney John Chisholm said the prosecutors and investigators assigned to the task force would approach their mission as impartial professionals and would not be swayed by their bosses’ party affiliations."
State will fell 700 trees in ash borer survey
"Crews began cutting ash trees this week in Ozaukee and Washington counties, where the emerald ash borer was found in July. Work also began in neighboring Fond du Lac County and will move into Sheboygan County within several weeks. The four counties are under an emerald ash borer quarantine."
Wisconsin pension fund declines; effect unclear
"The value of the Wisconsin Retirement System's Core Fund equity holdings dropped $2 billion last Friday alone.  And that was before this week's stunning slides in the Dow Jones industrials..."
U.S. Religious Leaders Invite Iranian Dictator to Dinner - Christian News Wire
"Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has been invited to a dinner put on by American religious leaders during his visit to the United Nations, scheduled for September 25. The event is touted as a dialogue by the Mennonite Central Committee, World Council of Churches, and the Quaker group American Friends Service Committee. Representatives of the Episcopal Church and other mainline denominations plan to attend the dinner."
DPW: Democratic Party files motion to intervene in lawsuit - Wispolitics.com
"“If Van Hollen won’t drop his baseless, hyper-partisan lawsuit, then the Democratic Party has no choice but to intervene to make sure the up to one million eligible Wisconsin voters his suit targets do not lose their right to vote,” said Joe Wineke, Chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin."
'Throw the bums out!' — say the bums - Baltimore Sun
"So the Republicans have decided to run against themselves. The bums have tiptoed out the back door and circled around to the front and started yelling, "Throw the bums out!""
 

17 Sept

  
Hurley construction project nears completion
""The 2008 project is substantially done. Some blacktopping (that will start today) will complete the project," said public works committee chairman Donald Richards.  The 2007 project wasn't completed on time and it carried over into this spring, leaving some streets with gravel bases over the winter."
Devils beat Midgettes
"It was the second time Ironwood and Hurley played outside of a tournament since Michigan volleyball moved to the fall last year. Hurley won the other match.  "It was an exciting win for us because it was our version of the battle of the border," Ironwood coach Heather Smith said. "I felt the teams were well matched."
Harlem Ambassadors to play in Mellen
"The Harlem Ambassadors offer a unique brand of Harlem-style basketball, featuring high-flying slam dunks, dazzling ball-handling tricks and hilarious comedy routines. The Ambassadors feature non-stop laughs and deliver a positive message for kids wherever the Ambassadors play."
Sales Tax
"Revenue administrators say it would level the playing field between Wisconsin retailers that have to collect a sales tax and out-of-state Internet and mail order catalog businesses that don't have to collect the tax if they don't have a connection to the state.  Doyle has supported the streamlined sales tax in the past and will decide whether to include it in his own budget request to the Legislature in February."
511 System
"According to a new report from the state Department of Military affairs, Wisconsin's 511 system should be online by November.  Travelers will be to call it to get emergency notifications, directions and information on driving conditions."
Appeals Court ruling on mining land favors tribes
"According to the decision, the assessment of the land — a controversial property often referred to as the Crandon mine site — was based on a 2003 state Department of Revenue analysis of the tribes’ purchase of the mining company and land.  In the mid-1970s, the site was identified as one of the largest zinc-copper ore bodies in North America."
Doyle welcomes Obama’s $5 billion Great Lakes restoration plan
"Obama’s plan calls for $5 billion over 10 years to address critical Great Lakes issues such as sewer overflows, invasive species and toxic hotspots. The money would come from rollbacks of existing tax breaks to oil and gas companies, according to his aides.""
Wisconsin delays switch to new Medicaid ID
"The state of Wisconsin's switch from using the Social Security Number as the identifier for Medicaid users is being delayed one month.  The state Department of Health Services planned to make the change for about 900,000 Medicaid recipients on Oct. 13."
Heard this winter will be colder? Think again, says National Weather Service 
"The Farmers' Almanac says that another long and "numbing" winter will hit the Great Lakes region of the Midwest this year, with below-average temperatures and heavy snows... But the courageous souls at the National Weather Service have a different take on the coming winter."
Marriage Proponents Physically Assaulted in Santa Rosa, California - Christian News Wire
"After shouting obscenities at a TFP volunteer, a supporter of same-sex marriage slapped him as he filmed the demonstration. Although he managed to avert the blow, the assailant hit his camera disabling the settings."
[This is at least as bad as beating a young man to death and leaving him hanging on a split rail fence in Wyoming. - Bob]
Empty Seats Greet McCain at Fla. Rally - Washington Post
"Republican presidential nominee John McCain held his first rally without running mate Sarah Palin today, and let's just say there were seats available... There were almost no supporters in any of the cavernous arena's 24 upper-level seating sections, and only eight of the 21 sections downstairs held fans."
 

16 Sept

  
Obey Now ACCEPTING Student Applications For Military Academies for the 2009 academic year
"Seventh District Congressman Dave Obey (D-WI) announced today that he is now accepting applications from those interested in competing for a nomination to one of the United States military academies for the class of 2013. The deadline for applying is November 15, 2008."
Hurley considers installing security cameras
"At first, board members talked about installing five cameras, but principal Jeff Gulan recommended more because he said the Baraga School District, where he previously was employed, added cameras several times."
Moving a mountain
"It is an amazing, prodigious project that is being very well executed," said La Pointe Town Supervisor Beth Fischlowitz. "It's been about 20 years since we have had any real infrastructure work done on our highway system, so it is something that needs to be done."
Airport Nature Trails
"Darlene Machtan says she and the students are cutting out stumps that need to be cut, snipping off debris, moving brush, and raking everything to a smooth surface.  The students get credit toward graduation for working on the trail, which encompases four-tenths of a mile and is designed to give airport patrons a chance to get off their plane, take a walk, and get some fresh air. "
Great Lakes Restoration
"The state of the Great Lakes gets more exposure today in the presidential election race.  Democratic nominee Barack Obama plans to announced his initiative to restore the lakes."
WI Guard Members Helping Out in Texas & Louisiana
"Five Wisconsin Army National Guard helicopters, one fixed-wing reconnaissance aircraft, and 35 personnel are helping out Hurricane Ike victims in Texas and Louisiana."
Obama plan calls for $5 billion to protect, restore Great Lakes
"The money would come over a 10-year period from rolling back tax breaks for oil and gas companies, and it would flow toward things such as sewage system treatment repairs, toxic cleanups and wetlands restoration, according to a Great Lakes restoration plan the Obama campaign is expected to release today."
Court dismisses case over Wis. lawmakers' secrecy
"Former Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager does not have legal standing to continue the case since she left office after losing re-election in 2006, the District 1 Court of Appeals ruled."
Farmers in northern Wis. report light frost 
"Rains later in the week helped some areas, but the rain was called too late for most crops and only hampered field work as farmers were trying to bring in the fourth cutting of hay."
Democratic party officials bash attorney general
"Van Hollen, who also serves as co-chair of Wisconsin’s campaign to elect Republican candidate Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., sued the Government Accountability Board last week demanding they cross-check driver’s licenses with names in the state’s voter registration database."
[It is a sad fact that refusing to let an opponent's supporter vote has the same effect as convincing one of your supporters to show up at the poll. - Bob]
A Former Member Testifies to the Dangers and Dysfunctions of the Jehovah's Witnesses - Christian News Wire
""The Spanking Room – A Child's Eye View of the Jehovah's Witnesses" explores the inner-workings of the Kingdom Hall and chronicles a first-hand account of the physical, mental and emotional abuse among Jehovah's Witnesses. It explores how Watchtower doctrine encourages violence against its most helpless members—the children."
The Ugly New McCain - Richard Cohen , Washington Post
"McCain has turned ugly. His dishonesty would be unacceptable in any politician, but McCain has always set his own bar higher than most. He has contempt for most of his colleagues for that very reason: They lie. He tells the truth. He internalizes the code of the McCains -- his grandfather, his father: both admirals of the shining sea. He serves his country differently, that's all -- but just as honorably. No more, though."
John McCain’s 43 Flip-Flops - Think Progress
I like articles that just lay out the quotes (and anti-quotes) and then link to the original sources. - Bob
 

15 Sept

  
Hurley school board meets Monday
"An outside security camera proposal and an update of the floor tile project are on the agenda for today's Hurley School Board agenda.  The board will meet at 5:30 p.m. in the library.  The school district has not yet conducted its annual meeting and board members will discuss setting a date for that session and for the regular monthly meeting in October."
Emergency preparation to be discussed at Expo
"September is National Preparedness Month. The Iron County Health Department and the Iron County Emergency Management Services will be at the Senior Expo on Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the American Legion building in Hurley offering information on how to be prepared for all types of emergencies, natural or man-made."
Trojans dominate Midgets 36-8
"Hurley struggled on offense, with only seven first downs and 133 yards total offense... The Midgets had five fumbles, four of them lost, while the Trojans only had two fumbles, with one lost."
Trojans topple Midgets
"The Forest Park defense forced five Hurley turnoves, and Josh Siler rushed for 177 yards and two touchdowns as the Trojans ran past the Midgets 36-8 Friday night in Great Western Conference action."
Small Wineries Given Ultimatum
"David adds, "Basically we're still going to be self distributing, as we did before, getting our own sales, the only difference is our billing is going to have to go through the co-op office."  If Brigadoon Winery hadn't entered into the co-op they would have lost almost 30% of their total sales. "
Budget Woes
"State agencies have until the end of business Monday to submit their spending requests for the next two years.  Governor Jim Doyle will use the requests as a starting point for the state's new two-year budget that he will craft over the next few months."
Renewable energy may dim if tax break ends
"Democrats want to extend the tax credits as part of major energy legislation being discussed in Congress. The bill’s chances, however, are slim, with Republicans balking at proposals to make up the lost tax revenue by eliminating tax incentives the oil and gas industry enjoy."
[How do Republicans say "all the above" and then protect only the oil companies? - Bob]
Nursing homes seek help
"Some counties have closed their nursing homes because of the problem. But others, such as Dodge County, are trying to forge a new business model based on regional cooperation."
One-finger salute earns officer's attention -- and a citation
"Dodge County deputy Roy Jaster was driving a Ford Crown Victoria with interior lights and external antennas — about as clear an indication of an unmarked police car as can be found — on North Center Street in Beaver Dam Friday afternoon when the driver behind his squad car started following closely. Jaster pulled over, and as he did, the passing driver saluted in response, a maneuver described by Jaster as a "one-fingered wave.""
Three killed Thursday in Arbor Vitae airplane crash
"According to preliminary reports, the aircraft that was carrying two Milwaukee area residents, Curtiss Stern and John Schlagenhaft, and one Batavia, Ill., resident, Kenton Morris, departed from Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport at 5:46 p.m. enroute to Lakeland Airport."
Younger evangelicals split over Palin  - Capitol Times, Madison
"Strang said he's waiting for the Republicans to talk more about health care and the economy -- and is both intrigued and unmoved by Palin.  "It's a great story, but I don't know what's changed," he said. "She's pro-life, but we already knew the ticket was pro-life. She really doesn't broaden the agenda.""
McCain on FCS: Flip-flop or fib? - Army Times
“McCain’s interpretation of Obama’s position is typical of the way in which the Republicans have twisted Democratic views in order to undercut their opponents and at the same time obscure the past positions of the Republicans,”
 

13&14 Sept

  
Presidential Campaigns Cancelled - inews3
"This was meant to be fun, it is a shame that you are reading this instead of being redirected to a site that would provide pleasure and enjoyment... Thank you all for sharing in the joy that this site was able to bring."
[Thanks to Margaret for having sent this along to me.  It is sad that we can no longer all be Pat Paulson  - Bob]
Heating aid offered for winter ahead
"The Iron County Department of Human Services will begin taking applications for the 2008-09 Wisconsin  Home Energy Assistance Program starting Oct. 1 at the Iron County Human Services Department. "
Garlic farmers both planting, harvesting
"For gardeners, late summer is a time to harvest, rather than plant. Garlic farmers do both, within a few weeks. Starting at the end of August, Bill Lambie of Hurley harvested Italian garlic by the bagful. Earlier this week, he planted about half his harvest to grow next summer's crop."
Lucius joins Sturgul law office
"Lucius is a graduate of Stetson University College of Law in Gulfport, Fla., where he received a concentration certificate in elder law. At Stetson, Lucius served as research assistant to professor Rebecca Morgan, an internationally renowned scholar in elder law."
Cyclist pedals home alone
"Most people don't pedal a bike across the country when they have some down time. Mark Hagemann did. The 21-year-old returned to his hometown of Hurley this week following more than 1,000 miles of pedaling his bike from his girlfriend Marlena Edelstein's house in Manhattan, N.Y."
Shreve concert set for Sunday
"Shreve is a writer, recording artist, singer and harpist from Nashville, Tenn. Her music ranges from inspirational compositions to well-known hymns, according to a news release.  The public is welcome to attend the free concert. Range Community Bible Church is at 610 U.S. 51 in Hurley."
Local schools receive 'New Promise' recognition
"Elizabeth Burmaster, superintendent of the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI), announced last week the names of 182 schools from across the state that earned the honor. Recognizing high-poverty schools that maintain above-average student achievement, the award was given to 28 schools in Cooperative Educational Service Agency 12, which encompasses 18 school districts in northwestern Wisconsin."
Jacks, Midgettes win at Oulu
"Mercer's Kyle Hoffmeister was seventh in 18:23. Rounding out the top 10 were Solon Springs' Nick Grubbe, eighth in 18:32; South Shore's Matt Reijo, ninth in 18:36; and Hurley's Paul Maxinoski, 10th in 18:37."
Fall Ride
"Harley fans can see new 2009 Harley's and even test drive new 2008 bikes. There is something for everyone, even the younger riders who are testing their skills at driving mini-motorcycles.  The highlight of the day is the corporate demo fleet of motorcycles. Riders can test drive one of 42 bikes on a 12 and a half mile course."
Fish Virus
"The Department of Natural Resources says it has received a $142,000 federal grant to test fish for VHS next year.  Fisheries director Mike Staggs says the money will allow testing of fish in more lakes and rivers and it's more than triple the grant the state received this year to collect and test fish from 67 different waters. "
Hurricane sends local gas prices above $4 a gallon
"The fact that U.S. fuel demand is so weak right now might mean the surge in the wholesale price of gasoline - which rose to about $4.85 a gallon in the Gulf Coast market Friday - might not be passed along to consumers for long, unless Ike's impact is severe and long-lasting."
Observers fear Van Hollen’s election lawsuit will cause problems
"Republican Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen sued the state this week to require more checks of voter information against driver's license records - a move that critics say could force people off the voter rolls and require them to cast provisional ballots. Provisional ballots are counted only when voters provide proof of residence by the next day."
Shippers, activists clash over cargo sweeping
"It's called "cargo sweeping," because residues that spill onto decks during loading and unloading are swept overboard. The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that 1 million pounds of such debris is washed into the lakes every year."
McCain's mailer creates controversy
"Each mailing includes at least one copy of the state application for an absentee ballot that has the address of a local clerk and a box for postage printed on the other side.  But in some cases, the incorrect clerk's address is printed on the application, leading some Democrats to wonder if the Arizona senator's campaign is deliberately trying to get them to apply for absentee ballots in places where they aren't eligible to vote."
Van Hollen's lawsuit will muck up election, voting officials say
""The board believes it would be counter-productive to rush this effort and to create a significant risk, at best of unnecessary hardship and confusion at the polls, and at worst the disenfranchisement of Wisconsin citizens with a clear and legitimate right to vote," he [Government Accountability Board Director Kevin Kennedy] said."
Once Elected, Palin Hired Friends and Lashed Foes - NY Times
"Throughout her political career, she has pursued vendettas, fired officials who crossed her and sometimes blurred the line between government and personal grievance, according to a review of public records and interviews with 60 Republican and Democratic legislators and local officials."
The Fact Checker - Washington Post
"John McCain is trying to claim that black is white when he argues that his running mate, Sarah Palin, has not accepted earmarks as Governor of Alaska... Alaska still leads the nation in terms of per capita spending on earmarks, according to Citizens Against Government Waste."

 
 

12 Sep

  
HURLEY CITY COUNCIL - Tuesday, September 16. 2008
  • Board of Public Works – 6:00 P.M.
  • Police, Fire & License Committee
  • Finance Committee
  • Parks & Recreation Committee
  • City Council Meeting - 6:30 P.M.
Sheriff not required to pay back fees
"On Thursday, the finance committee agreed to recommend to the full county board that the sheriff not be required to pay back $43,369 that he has collected as his 50 percent share of the process service fees over the past nine years."
Feds set VHS fish rules
"The requirements were announced Tuesday by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. They require testing and inspections of 28 farm-raised and live bait species susceptible to viral hemorrhagic septicemia, or VHS."
Study: Freshwater fish in N. America in trouble
"And while they are unaware, people are the chief cause of the problem by polluting and damming freshwater habitats, experts said.  In the first massive study of freshwater fish on the continent in 19 years, an international team of dozens of scientists looked not just at species, but at subspecies �” physically distinct populations restricted to certain geographic areas. The decline is even more notable among these smaller groups."
Plane Crash
"He quoted the sheriff's office as saying that the three people on the plane had died.  According to Freeman, the single-engine plane is believed to be a Cirrus SR22 and it apparently had departed from Milwaukee."
Doyle voices optimism about Great Lakes Compact at conference
"“This is real momentum. This is real opportunity. This is something that we really can build on. You all are water lovers and water experts, and you know something about the flow of water, and it is a lot easier going with the flow than against the flow,”"
Feingold to meet with GM official about Janesville plant 
"Both Feingold and Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle have been urging Wagoner to reconsider the decision to close GM's Janesville plant in 2009, and have asked him to retool the plant to make more fuel-efficient vehicles. The plant, which has had its workforce cut in half since GM started talking about closing it, currently makes trucks and sport utility vehicles, which are not selling well."
New Evangelical Poll Shows Golden Rule Moves Attitudes on Torture
"The results of a new poll show that while Southern white evangelicals are more likely to hold a more extreme view on torture than the general public, their views can be changed when reminded of the teachings of Jesus"
[Who would Jesus torture? - Bob]
McCain’s Glamorously Testy Interview - People for the American Way
"JM: No, no. Let's move on to the next question, otherwise then we can't continue the interview.
GLAMOUR: OK.... When we discussed it last time, you did mention that you support--
JM: I want to go forward with the next question. And this is the last time I'd like to say that, OK?"
 

11 Sept

  
Some WIC vouchers can be used at farmers market
"Recipients of the Wisconsin Women, Infants and Children program can use specified food vouchers for farm fresh fruits and vegetables at the Iron County Farmers Market.  However, a representative from the Western Upper Peninsula District Health Department in Bessemer, Mich., said its Michigan WIC program does not include a farmer's market package."
Hospice to serve pie across Range, in Wisconsin
"Regional Hospice of Ironwood will hold a fundraising Pie and Dessert Social on Wednesday at six locations ... Little Finland, Kimball, Wis., 10 a.m to 1:30 p.m."
WI Guard Heads to Arkansas for Ike
"Forecasters expect the storm to make landfall this weekend somewhere between Corpus Christi and Houston.  The National Guard in Wisconsin sent five helicopters and 29 crew members to central Arkansas where an intermediate staging base is located."
Two Northwoods Districts Put Consolidation to Referendum
"Two districts suffering from financial woes and decreasing enrollment are now going to voters to consolidate.  In November, Park Falls and Glidden will ask their voters to consolidate districts in the hopes of avoiding further budget cuts."
Suit filed in voter checks
"Van Hollen’s suit would not require the state to take people off the voter rolls if they have incorrect information. People who are told their data are incorrect can still vote, even if they don’t correct the information."
Doyle: Great Lakes should be national priority
"He says voters need to base their decisions in November on which state and national candidates have a strong record of supporting the environment."
Feds set fish shipment rules for Great Lakes 
"Federal regulators trying to contain a fish-killing virus in the Great Lakes region have issued rules for shipping live fish across state lines that some wholesalers say will be financially devastating."
Flashback: McCain Ad Attacked Bridge To Nowhere - TPM
"That's right: During the GOP primary, in the fall of last year, none other than John McCain ran an ad attacking both the Bridge to Nowhere, which Palin of course favored, and earmarks for studying the DNA of animals, which Palin requested."
Obama's "Muslim Faith" - Belief Net
"Despite Obama's clear meaning, it's easy to see how it coud be taken out of context and within hours, it sure was.  UPDATE: I'vey posted seven different videos, but YouTube has taken them all down, presumably for copyright violations. Each one cut the clip at the phrase "my muslim faith," and several repeating it the phrase over and over."
[This is nice.  It is incumbent on all Christians to debunk and defeat the lies of the intemperate among us who seem to serve a political, rather than a loving God. - Bob]
 

10 Sept

  
Lipske tops Democratic primary
"As I mentioned in my handouts, it has been my privilege to serve the people of Iron County and I will continue to do so to the best of my ability," Lipske said. "I would like to thank everyone for their votes, the yard signs, and their support."
Sherman wins handily
"I want to thank my volunteers," Sherman said in a telephone interview from the StageDoor Bar in Washburn. "They all worked very, very hard and made a lot of telephone calls, and I think the turnout was much better than expected as a result."
Proposed campground draws controversy
"These ATV riders have become important to the area economy as patrons of area motels, resorts, stores, gas stations and other establishments of every kind. They represent a lucrative market, as a study done by the state shows ATV riders spent over $295 million in Wisconsin in 2004, a figure that has been steadily climbing ever since."
Chamber of Commerce [Eagle River]: Tourist Season Successful 
"Connie Heeg, Director of the Rhinelander Chamber of Commerce, says, "They were telling us they weren't going to be driving down to Disney World this year, the Grand Canyon. We've had a ton of people tell us they were not going to be driving and hauling boats up to Canada this year, that they were going to fish in Eagle River or the Northern WI area.""
Cost of power plant rises $100 million
"Alliant says it plans to offset the carbon dioxide emissions from the plant by using renewable fuel for 20 percent of its output and by shutting down an aging coal-fired boiler in Sheboygan. It also plans to expand the use of wind power and conserve more energy."
Unions concerned about proposed domestic partner ordinance 
"Organized labor unions and their representatives continue to voice two main concerns with the proposal. They say that if the proposal passes, union contractors will be put at a competitive disadvantage with non-union contractors. Additionally, a primary union function -- negotiating benefits and wages for its employees -- will be superseded by what could become a mandatory rather than a negotiable benefit."
Once again, Lakeland bucks trend, spikes gas
"The Twilight Zone aspect looked more pronounced given the plummeting price of oil and gas on national markets. Those prices tumbled dramatically throughout last week, as Lakeland prices for a gallon of unleaded regular gasoline went the other way."
Weird Theology in Wasilla: A Look Inside Sarah Palin's Pentecostal Church - AlterNet
"... Wasilla Assembly of God's Head Pastor Ed Kalnins whose sermons espouse such theological concepts as the possession of geographic territories by demonic spirits and the inter-generational transmission of family "curses""

Pretty Sad - TPM
"The local news in Alaska is willing to play it more straight about Palin's Bridge lie than the prestige networks in the lower 48 ."

Sarah Palin and Alaskan Independence Party (AIP) - You Tube
"This video shows the connection between Sarah Palin, Governor of Alaska and the AIP (Alaskan Independence Party) "
Wasilla charged rape victims for their own forensic exams under Mayor Sarah Palin? - AmericaBlog
"If one uses it one would find that the Frontiersman is the local Wasilla paper, and has been around since 1947. This article was published in the year 2000, so it wasn't a swipe at Palin at all - that was 8 years before she was chosen for VP. It just so happens that the article inadvertently gives us a rather nasty window into Sarah Palin and the priorities of her city government."
 

09 Sept

  
Rep Sherman Unveils New Campaign Web Page
"After ten years in the minority, I am looking forward to playing a leadership role in Wisconsin's restoration. Together, we can tackle issues like education funding, property taxes, health care, and the environment."
Hurley, Mercer schools chosen for recognition
"The Mercer K-12 School and Hurley High School will be among those honored Oct. 12 during a ceremony in the State Capitol Rotunda in Madison.  The honor, given by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, comes with a $1,500 award.  Administrators at both Hurley and Mercer praised their staffs."
Ashland Guard Unit ordered to active duty
"Members of Ashland's National Guard unit, Detachment 2 of the 829th Engineer Company, are among some 3,500 Wisconsin Guard members who have received mobilization orders as part of a call-up of the 32nd Infantry Brigade."
Don't forget to vote today!
Daily Press Staff The primary election for the 74th Assembly District is today. Voters will be asked to decide between incumbent Gary Sherman, D-Port Wing, and challenger Alan Ralph, D-Drummond.
[You can review Rep Sherman's press releases of the last year by clicking on "Officials" on the banner menu above and selecting his category. - Bob]
Oredocker netters roll past Midgettes
"The Ashland tennis team put forth a solid effort Monday to defeat Hurley 6-1 in non-conference action.  "There were some very good matches," said Ashland coach Bill Osmak. "It was a lot of fun to watch.""
Cranberry Crop 08' 
"For the fourteenth year in a row, Wisconsin is the largest producer of cranberries in the nation, and this year's harvest is projected to be the state's second largest.  Sue Indermuehle is part of the family-owned Indermuehle's Alder Lake Cranberry and says this is good news for the economy because a bigger crop means more jobs."
Northwoods Soldiers to be Deployed Overseas
"The Wisconsin National Guard troops in Merrill, Antigo, and Wausau are being called as part of the largest deployment of the Guard since World War Two.  Members of seven units are now on active duty."
First Case of West Nile in a Bird in Oneida County
"Crystal Woller, the Assitant Director at the Oneida County Health Department says, "Making sure their screens are intact, making sure you're not outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are at their highest activity. Making sure you don't have any standing water.""
State ranks near top for bicycling
"The cycling advocacy group ranked the Badger State as the second-most bicycling friendly state in the nation, according to the ratings released late last week.  Wisconsin scored well for its designated bike trails, signs and mapping, according to Andy Clarke, president of the advocacy organization."
Crops are hurting due to dry conditions 
"Dry conditions across Wisconsin are affecting crops, with some reports from farmers showing alfalfa and pastures no longer growing and low yields expected in some areas for soybeans and corn."
A New Chapter in the Pro-life Movement - Christian News Wire
"We are closer to victory than ever before, and now is the time to redouble every effort and to push over the finish line. Now is the time to cut off any "dead wood," any projects that aren't bearing fruit, any expenditures and efforts that are not actually moving us toward the goal of ending abortion, and any bureaucracy in our structures that is hindering rather than advancing the mission."
Michael Palin for President - You Tube
"Palin campaigning hard for Vice President, it's time to consider a new contender as the election campaign heats up: former Monty Python member Michael Palin! Neither Democrat nor Republican, he's... british! Learn more at "
 

08 Sept

  
District attorney¹s race highlights Tuesday ballot in Iron County
"District Attorney Martin J. Lipske of Kimball, Wis., is seeking re-election.  He is being challenged by former Iron County Corporation Counsel Jodie Bednar-Clemens of Mercer, Wis., and attorney Sam Filippo from Saxon, Wis."
DNR: Up to 1.7 million deer roam Wisconsin
"Wisconsin wildlife experts estimate that up to 1.7 million whitetail deer roam the state as the fall hunting seasons approach.  That’s about the same population estimate from the Department of Natural Resources as a year ago."
Bad River caucus results announced
"Tribal vice-chair candidates Peter "Bing" Lemieux and Kim Ford will advance to the general election on Nov. 4., according to Thursday's caucus results provided by the Bad River Band."
Youth bear hunt a success
"This special hunt began on Friday evening with four hours of required skills training that covered the biology of bear, regulations, firearm proficiency and management. Approximately 80 people which included the young hunters, their mentors, family members and Wisconsin Conservation Wardens took part in the event."
Deer Hunting Statistics
"Wildlife biologist Jason Fleener says a severe winter in some parts of north central Wisconsin may have claimed some deer.  But he says most of the state's deer management units have more deer than recommended population goals."
Some state officials don’t owe income taxes
"A review of the tax filings of 161 public officials found that Rep. Mary Williams (R-Medford), Tourism Secretary Kelli Trumble and Sen. Lena Taylor (D-Milwaukee) didn’t owe state income taxes last year. The records for 2007 taxes for a dozen officials were not available.  Williams hasn’t had to pay state income taxes since before 2000. Trumble last paid in 2001. Unlike them, Taylor paid in 2006."
Wisconsin agricultural exports increase 13 percent
"Dairy exports grew 59 percent over those six months, driven by a healthy demand for cheese, whey and butter. Cheese exports alone were up 48 percent.  Exports also were driven by growing demand for dairy products in Canada, Mexico, Japan, China and Korea."
ChristianFamilyTube.com Up For Sale - Christian News Wire
"We are looking for someone/organization to take our turn key semi popular website from this point and move forward with it. Our site is user friendly and fully key-word optimized for generating traffic. This is a great opportunity for someone/organization that has been looking to break into the Christian Online Community & Network."
[Can we suggest putting up some billboards on the temple steps? - Bob]
Alaska Independence Party - Part 1 - You Tube
"Held Oct 3-4 in Chattanooga, TN the 2nd Secessionist Convention excluded no secessionist organization no matter how small. The Alaska Independence Party, of which Dexter Clark is vice-chair, is one of the biggest and most well respected - for good reason!"
 

06&07 Sept

  
Sherman Praises Local “Promise Schools of Recognition”
"Gary Sherman (D - Port Wing) was gratified upon learning that at least one school in each of the 12 school districts in the 74th Assembly District were named as Wisconsin Promise Schools of Recognition by the Department of Public Instruction in its announcement Tuesday. Many of those districts had two or more of their schools recognized, and a number of them have made the list five or more years in a row."
Citizens Group Unites to Oppose Hovey Project - Superior Chronicle
"A group of citizens concerned about the proposed Towering Pines Low-Income Ayer Street Housing Project met at 6:30 PM yesterday evening at the Villa Maria Conference Room, Hurley, Wisconsin. "
[Although the political acrimony belongs to  Ironwood, this article is linked because the meeting was held in Hurley and the development could affect property values in Iron County. - Bob]
Lakes grind down Midgets
"I'm super proud of our kids. We knew this was going to be a tough deal," Erickson said. "They ran over their right side. That 40 (sophomore back Jordan Hahka) gained a lot of extra yardage and we didn't stop them."
Clean Sweep Grant for Hazardous Waste
"Sexton tells Newswatch 12, "It does two folds, it protects our environment because these materials could very easily contaminate our soil, groundwater or surface water. It also helps protect our younger children that may get into some of these containers and become sick and violent.""
Heat bills expected to soar
"In a region comprising Wisconsin, Illinios, Ohio, Indiana and Michigan, the average household will be expected to pay between $2,700 and $3,500 from October through March, Eisenberg said. The amount depends on the type of energy used to heat a person's home, with fuel- and oil-powered heat the highest at about $3,500."
State lags in checking restaurant cleanliness
"State health inspectors failed to visit at least 2,700 Wisconsin restaurants under their jurisdiction in the past year, and some restaurants have gone at least three years without an inspection, records and interviews show."
Many Wisconsin 911 centers not equipped with latest technology
"Recognizing the rapidly growing popularity of sending short text messages via cell phone, some states are taking steps to ensure local 911 centers are equipped to receive text messages, Internet-transmitted phone calls, video and other "next generation" forms of communication."
Bob Fest: Power rests with the people (photo
"Five-time Bob Fest speaker Jim Hightower said he compares the festival to a hardware store in his hometown of Austin, Texas, called Harold's Hardware.  "They will sell you one nail. You don't have to buy the whole package. They will help you design your bookshelf, draw it out for you, and lend you a tool.""

WHAT’S NEW   Robert L. Park   Friday, 5 Sep 08

  • BANG!  LHC PROTONS WILL COLLIDE ON WEDNESDAY.

  • DEBATE:  DID "SCIENCE" GET A MENTION IN ST. PAUL?

  • GM:  CHINA SEEKS A TRANSGENIC GREEN REVOLUTION.

  • POPULATION ERROR: SPEAKING OF FECUNDITY.
Palin Continues to Smear Catholic Action - Catholics for Obama
"This is what Palin and Giuliani were mocking. They were making fun of a young man's decision "to serve a cause greater than himself," in the words of John McCain. They were, therefore, mocking one of their candidate's favorite messages. Obama served the poor for three years, then went to law school. To describe this service--the first thing he did out of college, the sort of service every college-educated American should perform, in some form or other--as anything other than noble is cheap and tawdry and cynical in the extreme."
Sarah Palin's Theocratic End Times - Talk to Action
"In light of Palin's having been vetted, as Max Blumenthal reported by the religious right leaders of the Council for National Policy; Palin's views regarding creationismm; her 100% prolife views (meaning no exceptions for rape and inccest and opposition to stem cell research) her efforts as governor to roll back advances in LGTB civil rights in Alaska; her efforts to censor public library books in Wasilla while she was mayor; as well as he claims that the war in Iraq is "God's plan" and that the proposed gas pipeline is "God's will" suggest that Sarah Palin is by far the most theocratic candidate ever to make it onto a major party ticket."
Obama, McCain Fail to Qualify for Texas Ballot - Libertarian Party
"The Bob Barr presidential campaign has stated "serious legal consequences" will occur should Senators Barack Obama and John McCain be allowed on the Texas general election ballot after they knowingly missed the state's deadline to file."
Palin's stall - Anchorage Daily News
"Gov. Sarah Palin is taking the wrong approach to Troopergate. She should be practicing the open and transparent, ethical and accountable government she promised when running for governor and boasts about now that she's on the national stage.  Instead, Gov. Palin has begun stonewalling the Legislature's attempt to get the bottom of allegations that she, her family or staff violated ethical or state personnel rules."
 

05 Sept

  
On the campaign Trail: Gary Sherman
"Gary Sherman went through the lists of voters on Washburn's Pine Street before hitting the sidewalk for yet another day of door-to-door campaigning.  It's a routine he knows well; in the past five campaigns he has taken part in during the 10 years he has served in the State Assembly, Sherman has knocked on tens of thousands of doors, greeted hosts of voters, talked to them about their concerns, and asked for their vote on election day."
Man arrested after investigation of roll-over
"Michael Krone was arrested in connection with the accident on North Lake Road, about one-fourth mile east of Triplett Lane.  According to a deputy's report, a witness saw two people loading beer from the damaged, overturned vehicle into another vehicle at the scene of the accident. The two then drove away."
Apostle Islands visitor center office hours changed
"The center is open daily, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., through Oct. 12. Permits are required for camping in the national lakeshore throughout the  year and can be reserved by calling 715-779-3397, ext. 1."
Deer hunters can use rifles in chronic wasting disease zone
"When deer hunters take to the fields this fall, they will be allowed to fire rifles in diseased deer areas of south and central Wisconsin under a state rule change that some local officials say endangers residents near hunting land."
Review panel criticizes Great Lakes health study
"Drafts made public earlier this year suggest pollution in more than two dozen locations around the Great Lakes is causing health problems such as cancer and premature births."
Domestic partner benefits debate returns to spotlight with hiring of new leader
"Some faculty members who once brought in large sums of money from research grants are leaving the UW System for institutions where the benefits are offered, while other prominent scholars are turning down offers or are considering leaving."
The real estate market: Many say now's the time to buy
"Home sales in the state fell 20.7 percent in the second quarter of 2008 compared to the prior year quarter, a slightly steeper decline than both the nation, which fell 16.3 percent, and the Midwest, which dropped 17.9 percent.  But that doesn't mean it isn't a good time buy - in fact, many are saying just the opposite - now is the time to get into the market."
Some of Palin's remarks stretch the truth - Anchorage Daily News
"In her two years as governor, Alaska has requested nearly $750 million in special federal spending, by far the largest per-capita request in the nation, although she has cut, by more than half, the amount the state sought from Washington this year. While Palin notes she rejected plans to build a $398 million bridge from Ketchikan to Gravina Island, that opposition came only after the plan was ridiculed nationally as a "bridge to nowhere.""
Sebelius Accuses Palin Of Deceiving Voters - Huffington Post
"There's a disconnect between the way she positions herself as a small-town mayor ... and an inside Washington strategy," Sebelius added. "The kind of persona she is putting forward is very enticing, but I don't think it matches with her positions."
Republicans Use Fake Troops for RNC Video - Vet Voice
"That is, they feel compelled to stage a funeral with actors.  Because to show a real military funeral--with the heaving chests of a broken family clutching a flag-draped coffin containing the pieces of their dead soldier--might just make the funny hat-clad, stupid button-wearing audience blanch."
Richard Viguerie: 'Cranky Conservatives' are Responsible for Sarah Palin Pick; Conservatives Who Kept Silent Deserve no Credit for Selection that Saved the GOP
""Those who backed John McCain as the 'lesser of two evils' did no favors to themselves, their movement, or to Senator McCain," said Viguerie, chairman of ConservativeHQ.com. "He needed to know what conservatives really thought, and he needed to know what had to be done to get conservatives enthusiastically on board his campaign."
 

04 Sept

  
Festival Italiano 2008 part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4
This is a group of videos of Marty's Goldenaires from dnelson310 at Your Tube. 
Assembly candidates address Ashland Business Alliance breakfast
"A pair of candidates for the 74th Assembly District seat held by incumbent Gary Sherman (D-Port Wing) spoke to a breakfast forum Wednesday sponsored by the Ashland Business Alliance.  Attending the event were Democratic challenger Alan Ralph of Drummond and Republican Shirl LaBarre of Hayward.  Not attending the session was Sherman, who sponsors said had declined an invitation to speak."
Indianhead ski resort buys Blackjack, Big Powderhorn
"The owners of Indianhead Mountain ski resort in Wakefield are in the process of purchasing nearby Big Powderhorn and Blackjack ski resorts in what an area ski hill general manager called one of the biggest business deals on the Gogebic Range in "many, many years.""
Large voter turnout expected Tuesday
"A three-way race for district attorney is expected to produce a large turnout of voters in next Tuesday's Democratic primary in Iron County.  There is no Republican candidate, meaning that Tuesday's winner likely will be elected in the November election."
Doyle Announces New Advertising Campaign
"According to the Rhinelander Chamber of Commerce, changing the way the state advertises to tourists will help bring more people to the Northwoods.  Gaffron adds local restaurants and specialty shops struggled over the summer, but they're hoping the new marketing campaign will spark an interest in visiting Wisconsin and the Northwoods."
Doyle schedules energy forum
"Former Congressman Ed Muskie and I fought hard to start the LIHEAP program at the height of the energy crisis in the late 1970's to help low income seniors and working families pay their home heating bills, so they didn't have to choose between heating their homes and putting food on their tables," he [Rep David Obey] said. "Unfortunately, families are still facing those hard choices, and the need for LIHEAP is as strong as ever."
Report: One million more care workers needed by 2016
"A million more direct-care workers will likely be needed by 2016 to meet the demand for services from Americans over age 65. Yet the vast majority of frontline workers earn wages below $9.85 per hour and nearly one in three lack health insurance coverage."
Feingold pushes economic boost
"Feingold’s proposal, called the E4 Initiative, focuses on the Wisconsin economy, employment, education and energy by aiming to boost small business innovation, support job growth, strengthen workforce development and build new education partnerships."
Progressive Clergy Take on the Religious Right in Ohio
"Recently, the Alliance Defense Fund, the Scottsdale, AZ-based headquarters for the Religious Right's strategic legal ininitiatives, has encouraged mass law breaking by Religious Right-aligned churches in the run up to the 2008 elections. Not content to have one church do it as a test case challenge to the constitutionality of the law, they want to get maximum  political impact along the way."
September 3, 2008: Sarah Palin Gender Card
In this clip, John Daley savages the hypocracy spewing from Faux News and the McCain campaign, including a clip from Miss Wissala 1984.  It is truly the definitive statement on the sexism charges. - Bob
Noonan, Murphy trash Palin on hot mike: 'It's over' - Politico
""It's over," said Noonan, who then responded to a question of whether Palin is the most qualified Republican woman McCain could have chosen.  "The most qualified? No. I think they went for this — excuse me — political bullshit about narratives," she said. "
Excellent News for Sarah Palin!!!
"Washington Independent digs up example of Palin crowing about bagging a pricey earmark... This earmark, of course, was one John McCain singled out as egregious pork."
 

03 Sept

  
Two challenge incumbent for Iron County DA post
"Each candidate was asked: Why are you the best candidate for Iron County District Attorney?  The remaining questions related specifically to the different backgrounds and experience of each candidate."
AHS sweeps Hurley Invite
"Hurley's top runner was Chanel Youngs, 12th in 18:44."
Lac du Flambeau Tribal Primary Election Results
"The Lac du Flambeau tribe held a primary election on Tuesday to determine which candidates will be on the ballot for the Tuesday, October 7th general election.  The following candidates appeared on the election ballot. An * appears next to the candidate's name if he or she is an incumbent."
Attorney: Judge should toss charge in prayer-parent case
"Their attorneys have asked a judge to dismiss the charges, arguing the law is "unconstitutionally vague" as it applies to the allegations in the complaint. The defendants also contend the charges unconstitutionally infringe on their right to freely exercise their religion."
Doyle’s convention speech may have violated state ethics code
"A lawyer for the board that oversees the ethics code said using a state aide to write a speech for a political convention could violate a law that bans using state resources for private gain.  “It’s not state business,” said Jonathan Becker, counsel for the Government Accountability Board. “So if I was having my staff write a speech to read at a political convention, that would be bothersome to me.”"
Wisconsin's 2008 summer tourist season may be better than expected
"It started off a little shaky but has rallied," said Mark Richardson, deputy secretary of the state Department of Tourism. "Given the challenges, flat would be a victory in some ways but we're still cautiously optimistic that we'll grow."
Building green housing for Wisconsin's tribes 
"Imagine a house where an extended family could live comfortably -- grandmother, parents, children and maybe an uncle or aunt. And try making that house "green" -- one that would not harm the environment or waste energy.  Wisconsin's First Nations are taking the lead in developing such houses for their members -- with a lot of help from the University-Wisconsin Madison and a local architect."
Palin And The Alaska Independence Party - The Atlantic
"Its platform calls for the defense of "states rights," to "seek the complete repatriation of the public lands, held by the federal government, to the state and people of Alaska in conformance with Article 1, Section 8, Clause 17, of the federal constitution.""
Palin Wants Independent Trooper-Gate Probe Called Off - TPM
"In the latest sign that Sarah Palin's promised cooperation with the Trooper-Gate investigation is failing to materialize, her lawyer is now demanding that the entire case be taken out of the hands of the independent prosecutor hired by Alaska lawmakers, and given over to a state personnel board -- whose three members were appointed by the governor herself."
New Pro-Life Movie Could Impact Presidential Elections
"This movie tells how Roe v. Wade can be reversed by the U.S. Supreme Court. Moviegoers were excited or agitated on both sides because the movie shows in dramatic fashion just how flimsy the legal footing stands for Roe. New Justice appointees who believe in Constitutional original intent will likely overturn Roe."
 

02 Sept

  
Volunteers soaring through final preparations
"A full day of activities await airplane enthusiasts at the Gogebic-Iron County Airport Fly-in Saturday. Organizers are putting the last minute touches on event planning this week."
Tribal hearing denied
"A judge for the Lac du Flambeau tribe has denied a hearing over newly-revised election codes. Several tribal members filed for an injunction against the codes, claiming they were deliberately enacted to keep them from running in next Tuesday’s tribal elections."
Bayfield County introduces science into Superior setbacks
"But while inland lake development has become governed by principles rooted in environmental science, setbacks for building on the shore of Lake Superior have remained fixed at 75 feet, a minimum requirement set by the Department of Natural Resources."
Foreclosure Filings Level Off 
"The latest report from ForeclosuresWI.com shows 1,848 foreclosures were filed in August in the Badger State, up 5 percent over July's filings.  A total of 16,139 foreclosures were filed during the first eight months of the year, nearly 25 percent higher than the same period in 2007."
Heroin follows I-43 into northern Wisconsin, Upper Peninsula
"“If there is anyplace less likely than Ozaukee County to have a heroin problem, I would have guessed it would be Marinette” and the Upper Peninsula, Ozaukee County Circuit Judge Joseph D. McCormack said when he sentenced two women from that area on heroin-trafficking charges."
LdF primary for tribal council and executive seats is today
"After a tribal election code change has already narrowed the field, eliminating Jerome "Brooks" Big John, Tom Maulson, Muriel Fralick, Ronda Snow and Betty Jack from the running, the primary election today will do the same as it will narrow the field of candidates from 17 to eight.  With only two members running for tribal president and one for vice president, the primary will only be for those candidates running for the four open general council seats."
Evangelical Leader Who Met Palin Says Her Family is None of Our Business
"Mr. Schenck went on to commend Senator Barack Obama for saying families are "off limits" in the presidential campaign:  "Good for Senator Obama. He got it right big time on this one. That was a pro-family position to take. Good for him," Mr. Schenck said."
[Does this "family off limits" criteria extend to Palin's son? - Bob]
Palin's Lobbyist Has Abramoff Ties - TPM
"The Washington Post reports today that, while Mayor of Wasilla, Palin oversaw the hiring of a lobbyist, Steven Silver -- a former chief of staff to now-indicted GOP senator Ted Stevens -- to help win federal earmarks for the city.  But Silver appears to have additional ties that could further undercut Palin's image as a squeaky-clean reformer.
 

01 Sept

  
Festivale Italiano 2008
Saturday, 29 aug, 2008, Silver Street hosted the annual Festivale Italiano, a day of music (country, polka, drum and bugle, and pop), food, contests and frivolity to celebrate the many Italian early settlers and their heritage.  Get a taste of the event by clicking on the link to the right. - Bob
OBEY SAYS THE ECONOMY IS THE #1 PROBLEM
"This Administration and previous Congresses have been hell bent on deregulation. As a result, the government hasn't been keeping the big boys honest and we're seeing the results. We've had speculators gaming the system to drive the cost of energy through the roof so they can make huge profits; and we've had predatory lenders pushing unsustainable mortgages, which has contributed to the housing market collapse."
Air Quality Watch
"The department says there is expected to be increased ground level ozone in Door, Kenosha, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Milwaukee,Ozaukee, Racine, and Sheboygan counties.  The air quality is forecast to be unhealthy for people insensitive groups, those engaged in strenuous outside activities orthose exposed for prolonged periods of time."
ATV Riders Love Campground
"Robert Starich tells Newswatch 12, "This was perfect for us to come up be able to camp, get right on our ATV and go riding for the weekend."  The campground is right on an ATV trail and the warm weather makes the Labor Day weekend even better."
Tough economy worsens struggles for workers, job seekers
"As America recognizes Labor Day, a recent government report and other studies suggest a harder time for the unemployed as well as those who are working. They paint a picture of short-term weakness along what might be longer-term fractures."
Little to cheer for Wisconsin workers this Labor Day
"In the past year, from July 2007 to July 2008, the state has lost 12,000 non-farm jobs, with two of the mainstay manufacturing industries — paper and autos — suffering massive layoffs and plant closings. Construction employment over the past 12 months is down 3 percent from the previous 12-month period.  "Since the mid-1970s, economic growth has become a spectator sport, generating gains for the few, and already rich, and leaving everyone else behind," says a new report by the Center on Wisconsin Strategy at UW-Madison."
Obama rally sold out 
"Tickets are sold out for the Barack Obama rally in Milwaukee Monday night, where the Democratic presidential nominee will speak to a full house at the Marcus Amphitheater on the Summerfest grounds.  Obama's campaign comes to Wisconsin for the second time in two weeks, with the rally beginning at 6 p.m. and doors opening at 3 p.m."
  Town wants SuperCenter development concerns resolved
"The major questions concern some big-ticket promises in the town's mind - a pedestrian walk bridge over a large drainage ditch on the south property line, concrete sidewalks on the north side of Plaza Drive from Blumenstein Road and Northridge Way, and a park where the now-closed Richardson Plat Road connected with Hwy. 70 West."
Major Fire in Downtown Ontanogan
"One Hundred and Twelve years ago last Monday Downtown Ontonagon was destroyed by fire. The date was August 25th 1896. This morning at 5:00AM the residents of Ontonagon once again feared that history was about to repeat itself."
Palin: ‘I Do Not Support the Voucher System’
"In her less than two years as the state's chief executive officer, she was able to increase per-pupil education spending, and she is opposed to sending public money to support private schools through political schemes like vouchers.”
Cindy McCain on ABC Today: Palin Has National Security Experience Because Alaska Is Close To Russia
"Asked about Palin's national security experience, Cindy McCain could not come up with anything beyond the fact that, after all, her state is right next to Russia. "You know, the experience that she comes from is, what she has done in government -- and remember that Alaska is the closest part of our continent to Russia.""