New Governor's Goal: 250,000 Jobs And 10,000 New Businesses
WISCREPORT.COM (12/29/2010) - Senior level staffers for Wisconsin Governor-elect Scott Walker have been named. They include Deputy Chief of Staff Eric Shuut, Chief Legal Counsel Brian Hagedorn, Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs Ryan Murray, Communications Director Chris Schrimpf, Chief of Staff Keith Gilkes and Press Secretary Cullen Werwie. The senior level Walker staff will officially serve beginning January 3, 2011, according to transition director, John Hiller. Read more inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (12/22/2010) - The residents of the State of Wisconsin will continue to have eight seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, according to the latest Census figures released this week. Some states have gains in population and some have losses, however, most states will have the same number of representatives as before. Texas and Florida are the big gainers. Texas will add 4 seats in the House, while Florida only gets 2. Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, Louisiana and Pennsylvania are among those losing one seat each. The big losers are Ohio and New York, each losing two. See more inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (12/17/2010) - A recent poll indicates that some people who voted the way they did in the November 2010 election were likely doing so due to misinformation or lack of understanding of the details presented them by news organizations. The poll, conducted by WorldPublicOpinion.org, based at the University of Maryland, and Knowledge Networks, shows that many voters were misinformed on key issues regarding the stimulus, health reform, the economy, climate change, taxes, the GM bailout, and other issues. See inside WisconsinReport.com for more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (12/15/2010) - The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation has announced the names of performers to be inducted into the 2011 Rock Hall of Fame. They are, the Alice Cooper Band, Neil Diamond, Dr. John, Darlene Love and Tom Waits. Also being inducted as individual recipients of the Ahmet Ertegun Award are Jac Holzman and Art Rupe. The Award for Musical Excellence (previously the Sidemen category) will be presented to Leon Russell. Even though the winners were announced Dec. 15, 2010, the induction ceremony will be held in March of 2011. Read more inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (12/14/2010) - The U.S. Census Bureau says the county-level poverty rate for individuals ranges from less than 4 percent to more than 40 percent. The poverty level is below 5 percent in 19 counties or county equivalents in the nation. The counties with poverty levels below 5 percent includes two in Wisconsin (Ozaukee and Waukesha counties), plus five counties or independent cities in Virginia, three counties in New Jersey, two in Colorado and one in Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, Ohio and South Dakota. Read more inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (12/09/2010) - The latest book by United States President Barack Obama, Of Thee I Sing, was printed by a Stevens Point, Wisconsin company. Worzalla Publishing of Stevens Point printed the Random House book dedicated to the daughters of President and Michelle Obama. The printing arrangement by the Central Wisconsin company included secrecy and security. Many Worzalla staff members didn't know what they were working on the book until recently. The book, for sale in stores and on the internet, is illustrated by Loren Long. For more on this story see inside WisconsinReport.com (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (12/08/2010) - Our editor, Gary Morgan, accidentally came across something written on the internet about Assembly Representative Marlin Schneider, who lost to Scott Krug in the November election. Marlin, who represents Central Wisconsin, was called Nutty As A Fruitcake by someone who commented on the article published at WaxingAmerica.com. Our editor couldn't leave that internet website page without adding his own comments. We share some of those Gary Morgan comments are reproduced as part of his Garylook column at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (12/07/2010) - Elizabeth Edwards, age 61, passed away this Tuesday afternoon after the Cancer she was fighting had moved to her liver. Following that news she had decided to stop the anti-Cancer treatments. A few days after that news was made public, Elizabeth Edwards she died. President Barack Obama says he and First Lady Michelle Obama were saddened to learn of her death. Vice President Joe Biden says Elizabeth was an inspiration to those who knew her and to those who thought they knew her. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (12/06/2010) - There are about 500 Million members of the social website called Facebook. The editor of WisconsinReport.com, Gary Morgan, joined a couple of months ago. He says Facebook is a great way to keep up with what friends and relatives are doing, even if you haven't seen them for awhile, or, in some cases, never have even met them, yet. Our editor also shares comments, information and links to websites, as do many other Facebook users. WisconsinReport.com today shares some of his Facebook comments in Garylook. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (12/03/2010) - Governor elect Scott Walker delivered a message of creating 250,000 jobs, lowering taxes on businesses with 50 or fewer workers and requiring state regulations to be based on science. Those are the points Walker stressed to more than 300 Dairy Business Association (DBA) members at the DBA 11th Annual Business Conferrence December 1st. Read more inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (12/01/2010) - On World Aids Day, the outgoing Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, says there is Aids progress, but, there must be continued pressure for long-term funding to keep the progress moving in the same direction. Pelosi says treatment access has improved, and new infections and AIDS deaths are both declining. However, she says long-term funding should be forthcoming from the U.S. and from global partners. See more on this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (11/29/2010) - Based on data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), an estimated 250 home fires involving Christmas trees and another 170 home fires involving holiday lights and other decorative lighting occur each year. Together, these fires result in 21 deaths and 43 injuries. Read more inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (11/26/2010) - If Norman Pettingill were alive today, he might be among the hunters stalking the legendary bucks of Wisconsin and Minnesota. Pettingill once explained that he thought he must have been born with hunting in his blood. Pettingill, a native of Iron River, Wisconsin, claimed to have caught his first wolf by wrestled it into submissionr. For more on this story, see inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (11/22/2010) - This Thanksgiving, an estimated 42.2 million motorists are expected to take to the road. Additional motorists and winter road conditions can lead to dangerous situations, so a team of million mile accident-free drivers are helping to make our roads safer. For more on this story and others, see inside WisconsinReport.com, your independent news source for the Real Truth. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (11/18/2010) - The Kohl Department Stores chain of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, and Music Entertainment Sports Holdings (MESH), a division of LF USA, have plans to launch two multi-department contemporary lifestyle brands with globally-recognized entertainers Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony. This is the first celebrity couple to simultaneously design collections for one retailer. To find out more about this story, see inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (11/10/2010) - Honor Flight Chicago has announced that since its inception in 2008, it has sponsored 25 flights to Washington D.C., taking more than 2,000 World War II veterans to visit their memorial. Although each flight costs 50,000 dollars (500 dollars per veteran), the veterans from Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana experience a day of tribute and respect at no expense to them. See inside WisconsinReport.com for more on this story. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (11/09/2010) - Dan Rather Reports on HDNet takes an in depth look at the most controversial Supreme Court case of the year, Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. That's the case that granted corporations and unions more free speech rights in order to try to influence elections on their own, but not to donate more money to the candidates directly. Rather and his team try to move past the hype and take an in-depth look at what the case really meant while taking a look at the defeat of Senator Russ Feingold. See inside WisconsinReport.com for more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (11/05/2010) - NASCAR Champion, Jeff Gordon, and the Sounds of Pertussis Campaign announced Maria Bennett from Florida, as the grand prize winner of the Sound Off About Pertussis song contest, at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas. Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, has been known to cause deaths, and is on the rise in Wisconsin, Texas, California, Indiana, Michigan, New York, Ohio, and South Carolina. See more details at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (11/03/2010) - Republicans Scott Walker and Ron Johnson won the races for governor and U.S. senator yesterday, while legislative Republicans have taken over the state Senate and state Assembly. Walker says Wisconsin is open for business now. Johnson says when he gets to Washington D.C. he will vote for what is right for Wisconsin and the nation. Meanwhile, Democrat Dave Obey's seat will now be filled by Republican Sean Duffy. For more, see inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (11/01/2010) - Several Congressional races will be decided in Wisconsin Tuesday, Nov. 2nd, 2010, the next Governor will also be chosen, and one of two U.S. Senate seats will be filled. Voters will determine whether Wisconsin will be represented in Washington D.C. by Democrats or Republicans. Many experts are unsure just which way it will go, while others are expecting Republicans to be put back in power. Voter turnout will be the deciding factor. See more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/28/2010) - Thousands of people want to see Neil Diamond in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. That is, thousands of people at Facebook have clicked on LIKE, but, if they want their names included on a petition to be sent to the Hall of Fame Committee, they must also go to the website outside of Facebook and sign up. The website to go to is at neil2011.com, and the place to hear his music is in the mix at GreatGoldHits.com. See the story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/27/2010) - A team of scholars from the University of Wisconsin Colleges has been chosen to participate in a national study. The study is expected to determine how to update the two-year Associate of Arts and Sciences degree to keep it valuable to students in a rapidly changing world. The Henry Luce Foundation funded study will culminate in 2011. Read more about this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/25/2010) - Heavy smoking in midlife is associated with a 157 percent increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and a 172 percent increased risk of developing vascular dementia, according to a Kaiser Permanente study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. This is the first study to look at the long-term consequences of heavy smoking on dementia. Learn more inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/21/2010) - Both of the candidates hoping to replace retiring Wisconsin 7th District Representative Dave Obey in the U.S. House are claiming debate victory following the event held last night (Weds., Oct. 20, 2010) in Rice Lake, WI. The campaign manager for Republican Sean Duffy says Duffy erroneously insists Wisconsin workers are not affected by outsourcing to China. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/20/2010) - U.S. Senator Russ Feingold has received endorsements from more than 700 Wisconsin business leaders who stand behind the idea that Senator Feingold works for and has a commitment to grow the economy. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party of Wisconsin claims Feingold challenger, Republican Ron Johnson, has dodged 15 debates and is basing his run on an $8 million ad campaign. There is more inside WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/19/2010) - A survey by a Wisconsin college shows, if the election for Wisconsin Governor was held last week, 50 percent of the respondents said they would vote for Republican Scott Walker, while 41 percent would vote for Democrat Tom Barrett. The random phone survey included 402 Wisconsinites in its sample of potential voters. WisconsinReport.com has a further breakdown of the results. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/15/2010) - The question for today is, how can the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame pick 2011 inductees from the fabulous list of nominees? The nominee list includes Alice Cooper, Beastie Boys, Bon Jovi, Chic, Neil Diamond, Donovan, Dr. John, J. Geils Band, LL Cool J, Darlene Love, Laura Nyro, Donna Summer, Joe Tex, Tom Waits, and Chuck Willis. A select group of 500 voters get to select the artists to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at the 26th Annual Induction Ceremony. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/11/2010) - A tatoo firm with locations in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and elsewhere around the country is participating in a Breast Cancer Awareness promotion. Atomic Tattoos launched their "Tats for Tatas" fundraising campaign that is taking place throughout October. Atomic Tattoos is offering several specials throughout the month if customers donate $5 to breast cancer awareness. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/09/2010) - The supporters of both sides in the race for the Wisconsin U.S. Senator seat currently held by Russ Feingold (D-WI) are out spinning each other in the aftermath of the first debate held Friday night. Feingold advisor John Kraus says his candidate understands the state and its challenges, while Republican Ron Johnson spokespeople say Johnson is the one who showed he is the clear choice to move the country in the right direction. More at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/08/2010) - The first of a series of three debates between Wisconsin U.S. Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI) and Republican Ron Johnson will take place in Milwaukee tonight. The debate is being hosted by the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association. It will take place in television studios in Milwaukee from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm. However, viewers in many other areas of Wisconsin will be able to see and hear the event as well. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/06/2010) - Although in Wisconsin it sometimes doesn't look like it, an internet website owned by non-partisan Lucy Burns Institute of Wisconsin is suggesting there are some states where there are more competitive political races. Ballotpedia.com also says the fierce competition of national races is missing in many state legislative elections, according to results of a study of electoral competitiveness. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCEPORT.COM (10/05/2010) - For the eighth year in a row, a Wisconsin company has received a nod from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). SC Johnson has earned a perfect score of 100 percent on the (HRC) Corporate Equality Index. The HRC Corporate Equality Index rates companies on a scale of 0 to 100 on their fair treatment of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender employees, consumers and investors. WisconsinReport.com has more on this story. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (10/01/2010) - The state of Wisconsin is receiving a 1 million dollar grant from the U.S. Health and Human Services Department to begin work on an online health insurance exchange. Governor Jim Doyle says the grant will help Wisconsin build on its national leadership in health care quality and access. See more on this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/27/2010) - Calumet County, Wisconsin, District Attorney Ken Kratz has decided to step down from his position, instead of facing removal proceedings, following allegations that he sent messages of a sexual nature to women. However, Democratic Party of Wisconsin chairman Mike Tate is still upset with the Department of Justice. For more on this story see WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/27/2010) - A Rock the Vote poll reveals young voters are paying attention to the upcoming November election, and are closely attuned to pocketbook issues, including the economy, healthcare, and college costs. Fifty-six percent of those in the survey sample say they will vote for President Obama again in 2012. For more on this story see WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/25/2010) - Governor Jim Doyle (D-WI) is visiting China through October 1, 2010 to promote Wisconsin industry and trade to hold high-level meetings with government and businesses leaders. Before Gov. Doyle left for China he declared a state of emergency in five additional Wisconsin areas following strong storms that caused flooding. More about these developments is online at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/22/2010) - Wisconsin faces a budget deficit of at least $3.1 billion in the state's next two-year budget cycle, according to a new University of Wisconsin analysis. University of Wisconsin-Madison La Follette School of Public Affairs economist Andrew Reschovsky blames expected jumps in children entering schools and longer lives of Baby Boomers, which will likely raise the costs of education and medical assistance by 400 million dollars. See WisconsinReport.com for more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/21/2010) - The Calument County District Attorney is in trouble with Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle over the DA's alleged harrassment activities. Governor James Doyle expects a complaint for the removal of District Attorney Ken Kratz will be filed with his office. The office of Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen says the Department of Justice will function as prosecutor in anticipated removal proceedings. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/20/2010) - Wisconsin employment seekers and employers looking to recruit new workers can now take advantage of free job training and certification made possible partly by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) program helps individuals show mastery in basic workplace skills for current and potential employers. Read all about it online at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/16/2010) - The United States House of Representatives has passed what could be a game changer for the country in its struggle to re-employ those who have lost jobs to outsourcing mania. The House passed two bills as part of a Make It In America manufacturing agenda Democrats hope will catch on. The bills are the Congressional Made In America Act, and the Berry Amendment Extension Act. Read more at WisconsinReport.com (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/15/2010) - Now that the Wisconsin Primary dust has begun to settle, it is clear just who the choices will be on November ballots for many important races. Republican Sean Duffy and Democrat Julie Lassa are each trying the fill the shoes of retiring Wisconsin 7th District Congressman Dave Obey. Republican Ron Johnson is challenging U.S. Senator Russ Feingold (Dem), and Scott Walker is the Republican candidate for Governor against Democrat Tom Barrett. For more, see WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
Some parts of Wisconsin are expecting higher voter counts than usual for the Wisconsin Primary taking place today. One of the big decisions that will be made includes who will be on the November ballot for Wisconsin governor on the Republican side. Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker and former U.S. Representative Mark Neumann, as well as Scott Paterick of Wisconsin Rapids, are facing off in the Republican gubernatorial primary. There is also a lot of interest in other races around the state. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/10/2010) - A company that has allegedly improperly marketed an epileptic drug called Topamax is in trouble with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, and the Food and Drug Administration. The firm has agreed to pay back some of the money gained through Medicaid programs because the medication was prescribed for ailments not FDA approved. Wisconsin will receive some of the settlement. To find out more about this story click on the headline above. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/08/2010) - Not surprisingly, the unsure attitude about the economy that many people have, is causing the employed to think twice about leaving their jobs, but confidence is increasing. GfK Custom Research North America, a leading global custom research company, says its national survey indicates more than one in five currently employed Americans are willing to change jobs. However, 53 percent would prefer to stay with their current company even if they were offered a good job elsewhere. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/06/2010) - Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children, and the AAA, Cookie Jar Entertainment, the Busytown Mysteries animated series, CBS Television, and ThisTv, are cooperating in an effort to remind people to safely secure young passengers. Starting Saturday, September 11, a new public service announcement (PSA) is scheduled to air during CBS Saturday morning shows and on ThisTV digital network. Read more by clicking on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/03/2010) - U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano has launched a collaboration with Southern Shield, a consortium of state homeland security and law enforcement officials from 14 Southeastern states and territories. It is part of the national Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR) initiative, as well as the expansion of the If You See Something, Say Something campaign to fusion centers across the Southeast. Click on the headline above to read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (09/01/2010) - One of the larger employers in Milwaukee, a world-wide small engine manufacturing giant, is using a legal manuever to try to raise money to retire a 203.5 million dollar debt. Briggs and Stratton Corporation has filed what is called a shelf registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The statement allows the company to offer and sell debt securities to pay off the Senior Notes that become due in March of 2011. Click on the headline above for more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/30/2010) - The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) is seeking nominations for the third annual Wisconsin Woman Veteran of the Year Award. The award will be presented during the Women Veterans Conference being held October 22-24 at Fort McCoy. The award recognizes women veterans who have compiled a record of exemplary service as a military service member, a veteran, and an outstanding member of the community. Learn additional details by clicking on the headline above. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/26/2010) - The political and media climate of hate and division in the United States has developed to an intensity that alarms some people who fear what could result. This climate of potentially destructive rhetoric has prompted words of caution from the editor of WisconsinReport.com, which has a policy of publishing the Real Truth of the story, not an As We See It version of the truth. He suggests that everyone in the U.S. should remember that the strength of this country lies in what he calls, the Us Word. To read more, go to WisconsinReport.com (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/25/2010) - 85 percent of Americans, overall, are disatisfied with the United States Congress according to a recent Harris Poll. The number is that high because Republicans and Independents are REALLY disgruntled, but, it doesn't end there. The poll shows that even though Democrats are in the majority in Washington D.C., 73 percent of people who consider themselves Democrats are also strongly disapproving of the way things have been going in Congress. To read all about it, click on the headline above. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/23/2010) - Things are looking up in the state of Wisconsin, according to information by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. The quarterly report shows that more jobs have been added than originally anticipated by economists. However, the bad news is that it will likely take two to three years before the Wisconsin employed level will again reach the figures that were prevalent before the slow down. Click on the headline above to read the full story with more details at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/19/2010) - The United States Veterans Administration (VA) says it will open a new Vet Center site in Wausau, Wisconsin, as well as add additional counselors at the Milwaukee, Madison and Green Bay Vet Centers to help process cases and expedite assistance to veterans. Wisconsin currently has a low number of Vet Centers compared to other states like West Virginia or Hawaii that have a smaller veteran population than Wisconsin, but have nine and seven Vet Centers respectively. Click on headline above for more details. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (08/17/2010) - Two veterans in Lomira, Wisconsin are being recognized with the SCORE Award for having an Outstanding Veteran-owned Business. Kevin McDermott and Steven Smits are owners of Patriot Taxiway Industries. The two will accept the award at the 2nd Annual SCORE Awards and black-tie gala at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C., September 16th. WisconsinReport.com has more. Click on the headline above for the full story. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/16/2010) - President Barack Obama traveled to Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin today to jumpstart what the president called a homegrown, clean energy industry. ZBB Energy received a loan that is helping to fund an expansion of company operations, enabling ZBB to retain a dozen workers add 80 new employees. The President says he wants to see Made In America stamped on new energy products distributed in this country and around the globe. For more on this story, click on the above headline. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/14/2010) - The independent online source for news about Wisconsin people, places, politics, events and activities, has joined the Facebook crowd. WisconsinReport.com, established in 2002, now also has a page on Facebook.com, a social networking website with more than 500 million active members, many of which have ties to Wisconsin. Readers of WisconsinReport.com are urged to find the page on Facebook and become a fan by clicking on the LIKE button on the page. Click on the headline above for more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/12/2010) - On Monday, August 16, President Barack Obama will travel to Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, where he will tour ZBB Energy Corporation and deliver remarks to workers. While in the state, President Obama will also visit Milwaukee, where he will headline events for Mayor Tom Barrett and the Wisconsin Democratic Party. Barrett is running for Wisconsin Governor and other Democrats are involved in heavily contested races. Click on the headline above to read more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/11/2010) - Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle has announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has made a major disaster declaration for Milwaukee and Grant counties. The declaration, authorized by President Barack Obama, makes assistance available to local units of government affected by floods. FEMA did not find individual damage great enough to extend availablity to individuals. Click on the headline to read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/09/2010) - The Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board has partnered with StumbleUpon.com to target potential customers and increase the virality of advertising campaigns. To gain the upper hand in the longstanding debate over which state has the best cheese, the board chose StumbleUpon's ad platform to promote its fun and interactive consumer site, GrilledCheeseAcademy.com. Click on the headline above to read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/04/2010) - Legendary road-racing cyclist and seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong has teamed up with Quiznos to hold an international pro-cycling competition in Colorado next year. The Quiznos Pro Challenge is expected to attract bicycle enthusiasts from Wisconsin and the rest of the world August 22nd through the 28th, 2011. To read more at WisconsinReport.com, click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (08/01/2010) - A new state administrative rule regarding political campaign advertisements is now in effect in the State of Wisconsin. The new rule uses a common-sense test in determining whether an ad has a political purpose and is subject to statutory disclosure and disclaimer requirements. The old rules led to campaign ads by independent groups that skirted regulation by avoiding the use of certain words. Read more by clicking on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (07/29/2010) - Testifying before Congress today, Mortgage Insurance Companies of America (MICA) pledged to play a critical role in the future of housing finance by continuing to enable first-time and lower income families to purchase homes safely and soundly. Testifying on behalf of MICA was Patrick Sinks, President and COO of Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. To read more, click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (07/26/2010) - The leading cause (25 percent) of pet poisoning is swallowing human or pet pills the pets should not ingest . That is the finding of Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (VPI) of California, the oldest and largest insurer of pets in the United States. VPI is underwritten in most states by National Casualty Company of Madison, Wisconsin. For details, click on the above headline. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (07/23/2010) - It must be an election year. The Wisconsin GOP is accusing the camp of Wisconsin 7th Congressional District candidate Julie Lassa (D-Portage County) of carrying out a negative campaign against Republican Sean Duffy (R-Ashland County). They claim Lassa is using a thin link and flawed logic to cover up her track record. That record includes more than a decade of working on business and workforce issues. For more details, click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (07/20/2010) - Politics between Republicans and Democrats in Wisconsin is heating up and advertising and accusations are reflecting that. Politifact.com checks into how accurate campaign statements are. They say some ads against U.S. Senator Russ Feingold are overall Barely True on the Truth-O-Meter. For more, click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (07/15/2010) - Initiatives important to Wisconsin agriculture, rural development and nutrition are part of the Agriculture Appropriations bill set to go before the United States Senate for approval. Click on the headline above to learn more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (07/10/2010) - Anyone dialing a phone number in what has strictly been the 715 Area until now in the northern part of Wisconsin must enter the full ten digit number starting Saturday, July 17, 2010. That's the date telephone companies switch so a second code number (534) can be dropped into the 715 area. To read more, click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (07/06/2010) - A new Forever Stamp image may be available in January as part of a pricing package that would add less than 13 cents a month to the average American household budget. If approved by the Postal Regulatory Commission, First Class stamps would increase 2 cents to 46 cents. Click on the headline above for more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (07/02/2010) - Wisconsin will receive $25,246,669 in loan and grant funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Broadband Initiatives Program. Click on the headline above for more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (07/02/2010) - A new Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP) that will offer coverage to uninsured Americans who have been unable to obtain health coverage because of a pre-existing health condition is beginning to take applications. Click on the headline above for more details. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (06/28/2010) - Some Kellogg breakfast cereals are being recalled voluntarily by the Kellogg Company. The company says only Kellogg cereal products with the letters KN are included in the recall. The recall does not involve all Kellogg brand cereals, just certain brands. The brands in the Kellogg recall are Apple Jacks, Corn Pops, Fruit Loops, and Honey Smacks. The recall is being made because of what the company is calling, an uncharachteristic off-flavor and smell. Click on the headline above to read more about this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (06/26/2010) - Farm Aid joined family farmers from across the country in Madison, Wisconsin, at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) joint public workshop examining competition in the dairy industry. The workshop comes 18 months into an unprecedented crisis for dairy farmers. Low prices and high production costs, combined with a tightening credit market, have pushed thousands of family farmers out of business. Click on the headline above to read more on this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (06/23/2010) - Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Kathleen Parker and former New York governor Eliot Spitzer will co-host a spirited, nightly roundtable discussion program on CNN/U.S., according to Jon Klein, president of CNN/U.S. The new program, set to debut this fall, will air weeknights at 8pm Eastern time (7 CDT, etc.). Democrat Spitzer, a prosecutor and governor, and Parker, a conservative commentator, will host an exchange of opinions and analyses of the news of the day between themselves and guests and regular contributors. Click on the headline above to read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (06/21/2010) - U.S. Senators Russ Feingold (D-WI) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) are leading a bipartisan group of senators in urging the House of Representatives to take up legislation to end the automatic pay raise system for members of Congress. In a letter to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, 20 senators asked that the House vote on a bill passed by the Senate last year requiring members of Congress to pass legislation if they want to give themselves a pay raise. Currently, members of Congress receive an automatic pay increase UNLESS they pass legislation to block it. Click on headline above to read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (06/16/2010) - Large majorities of Americans feel they should be allowed to have guns, acccording to the latest Harris Poll findings. At the same time, many Americans favor stricter control of guns, particularly hand guns, although this number has decreased somewhat in the past few years. Most Republicans and Americans who own guns favor less strict laws controlling guns and hand-guns. Conversely, most Democrats and those who do not own guns favor stricter control of guns and hand guns. Click on the headline above for more details at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (06/15/2010) - Starting with July 17th it will be necessary to dial the area code along with the rest of the number you are calling in what used to be strictly the 715 Area Code. That's because the Wisconsin Public Service Commission has decided it is necessary to drop in a second Area Code due to projected exhaustion of available new numbers in what has been the 715 Area Code. So, beginning July 17th all new numbers issued will have the 534 Area Code, even though the numbers issued will be in the former lone 715 Area. Confused? Click on the headline above to read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (06/11/2010) - The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary is urging everyone in Wisconsin to join in with other citizens of the USA to show the United States flag on Flag Day 2010. Flag Day will be observed Monday, June 14th. Flag Day started in 1916 with a presidential proclamation by President Woodrow Wilson to commemorate the date on which the Second Continental Congress voted to adopt the flag of the United States in 1777. Nicknames for the flag include the Stars and Stripes, Old Glory, and The Star-Spangled Banner. Click on the headline above for more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (06/07/2010) - Smokers in Wisconsin will be unable to light up in the workplace state-wide by state law beginning next month. The new Wisconsin Smoke-Free Workplace Law will go into effect July 5th. The law is designed to help workers quit smoking and to protect customers and non-smokers from inhaling second hand smoke in restaurants and other consumer frequented businesses. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services says radio, print, and internet advertising is in the works to educate people about the new law. Read more by clicking on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (06/03/2010) - Now you can hear Pop Rock from the Greatest Five Decades of Hit Music on your computer while surfing the web. A Super Mix of your favorite Top 40 songs from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s is available on the internet at GreatGold.fm 24 hours everyday. The internet radio station plays Classic Hit Oldies (Pop Rock), which is the best of the Greatest Hits that made it onto Popular Rock Top 40 Charts from the beginning of the rock era in the mid-50s through the end of the 20th Century. All you need are headphones or speakers attached to your computer and you're ready to enjoy the music. Click on the headline above for more on this story. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (06/02/2010) - American voters say by 48-35 percent that they want their state to pass an immigration law similar to the recent Arizona law, according to a Quinnipiac (KWIN-uh-pe-ack) University poll released June 1, 2010. The same poll shows that most people who took the poll don't look favorably at those who are opposed to the law. The poll results indicate, by an overwhelming 76-12 percent, those surveyed say that plans by those opposed to the law to boycott Arizona are a bad idea. To read more about the latest Quinnipiac Poll, click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (06/01/2010) - Today is the first day for Wisconsin candidates and supporters to legally circulate nomination papers, marking the official start of the Fall 2010 campaign season. Many candidates planning to run in the November 2, 2010 election have been organizing their campaigns and raising money for months, but now is the time to get serious. If you are thinking about entering a race to win a seat in state government, the Government Accountability Board office is the place to find out what you legally need to do and when you need to do it. Click on the headline above for more information at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/28/2010) - Memorial Day weekend is here and traffic on highways in many areas of the USA is heavier than usual, because in the minds of some,it has become a fun holiday. However it is more than that. Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May (May 31 in 2010). Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War, it was expanded after World War I. Click on the headline above for more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/27/2010) - There has been a change in who is in control of the military engineering mission in Iraq. The Wisconsin Army National Guard 724th Engineer Battalion has officially replaced the 18th Airborne Corps 37th Engineer Battalion. The changeover took place during a transfer of authority ceremony May 22nd. As a result, the name of the mission has also been changed, from Joint Task Force Eagle to Task Force Badger. The 724th will support the 36th Engineer Brigade, which itself arrived in theater in April. To read more about this story at WisconsinReport.com, click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (05/24/2010) - Starting June 1st it will be mandatory to carry automobile insurance in Wisconsin. Drivers who fail to qualify can be fined up to 500 dollars. Forty-eight other states already require that drivers carry automobile insurance. After June 1, 2010, only New Hampshire will not require that all drivers take the responsible action of carrying insurance. Meanwhile, the Immediate Past President of the College Republicans of Wisconsin has renounced her party membership and joined the Democratic Party. To read more at WisconsinReport.com click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/24/2010) - State Republicans voted at the State GOP Convention in Milwaukee to support Ron Johnson to run against U.S. Senator Russ Feingold, and Republican candidate Dick Leinenkugal pulled out of the race. Instead Leinenkugal suggested the Republican Party get behind Johnson. Republican delegates also put their support solidly behind Republican Scott Walker to run for Governor. Walker was endorsed by more than 91 percent of the delegates present. Read more at WisconsinReport.com by clicking on the above headline. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/19/2010) - Marshfield, Wisconsin alderman John Spiros is running for the Wisconsin 70th Assembly District seat held by Amy Sue Vruwink (D-Milladore). Spiros is also a Roehl Transport Vice President of Safety and Claims Management. Spiros says he will work to undo, what he calls, the Wisconsin reputation of being a state that is not friendly toward employers, blaming 10.3 unemployment on Democrats raising taxes and fees. To read more at WisconsinReport.com click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/17/2010) - Many professionals who study the banking industry have been saying that the trend is that banks eventually will not be offering free checking as one of their services. But, according to a Bankrate, Inc. report, banking consumers can turn to Credit Unions for free checking. The Bankrate study of 50 of the largest Credit Unions in the United States shows that 78 percent of them provide free checking accounts. And, most Credit Unions do not require a minimum balance, nor do they charge a monthly fee. To read more at WisconsinReport.com click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/14/2010) - The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) is seeking public comment on the proposed wind siting rules, issued today by the PSC. The proposed rules will ultimately result in uniform wind siting standards for local units of government in Wisconsin and ensure consistent local procedures for regulation of wind energy systems. Any person may submit written comments on these proposed rules. Comments on the proposed rules will be accepted until July 7, 2010, at noon (July 6, 2010, at noon, if filed by fax). More at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/12/2010) - A Milwaukee based company that provides a service to military and commercial aerospace customers has been honored with a small business award. S3 International, LLC, Milwaukee, Wis., has been named 2010 Wisconsin Small Business Exporter of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). S3 International provides aircraft spare parts and repair management services to military and commercial aerospace customers. For more on this story at WisconsinReport.com click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/11/2010) - One of the Democrats talked about as a possible replacement for retiring Dave Obey has endorsed Julie Lassa, who yesterday announced she is in the race, while a Republican already running says if elected he will limit himself to eight years. Pat Kreitlow (D-Chippewa Falls) has endorsed Julie Lassa in her bid for the Wisconsin 7th District seat held in the U.S. House of Representatives for more than 40 years. Republican Dan Mielke (R-Rudolph) says Lassa and his Republican opponent, Sean Duffy (R-Ashland), are career politicians, unlike himself. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/10/2010) - State Senator Julie Lassa (D-Stevens Point) has entered the race for the Congressional seat that Dave Obey is giving up after more than 40 years. Last week Obey announced he will retire from the Wisconsin 7th Congressional Seat in the U.S. House of Representatives at the end of his current term. Republican Party of Wisconsin Chairman Reince Priebus says Lassa has apparently emerged as the hand-picked successor to Dave Obey. Priebus added the usual opposing party rhetoric, indicating Lassa won't necessarily have an easy campaign. For more at WisconsinReport.com click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/07/2010) - One of the finest play by play baseball broadcasters and comedy and baseball personalities has been released from the hospital after successful heart surgery. Milwaukee Brewers broadcaster Bob Uecker expressed thanks to fans and his doctors after being released from Milwaukee Froedtert Hospital Thursday, six days after a six hour heart surgery. His aortic valve, aortic root and part of his ascending aorta were removed. Click on the headline above to read more about Uecker and his surgery at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/05/2010) - U.S. Congressional Representative Dave Obey (D-Wausau) is retiring from his Wisconsin seat in the House after more than 40 years of service in Washington D.C. Obey first ran for the seventh Wisconsin district seat when Melvin Laird resigned to become Secretary of Defense in the President Richard Nixon administration. Obey has served as Chairman of the powerful House Appropriations Committee. He has been a popular representative in Congress, beating numerous Republican challengers over the years. He received 61 percent of the vote in the last election. For more see WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (05/03/2010) - Now that former Wisconsin Secretary of Commerce Dick Leinenkugel has moved on to become a Republican candidate for Wisconsin U.S. Senator, the Governor has promoted former Deputy Secretary Aaron Olver to the position. When Leinkugel resigned the Secretary job with short notice to jump into the political campaign ring, Governor Jim Doyle turned to Olver, because of his experience within the department. Olver also had a business background before becoming part of the Doyle Administration. Click on the headline above to read more about this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/30/2010) - Governor Jim Doyle has signed into law Senate Bill 484, the BadgerCare Plus Basic Bill. This bill creates a new, entirely self-funded health care plan option for nearly 43,000 adults without dependent children who are on the BadgerCare Plus Core Plan waiting list. For 130 dollars a month, people enrolled in BadgerCare Plus Basic will be able to go see a doctor, get the generic prescriptions they need, and receive catastrophic coverage, without costing taxpayers a dime. Click on the headline above to read more about this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/28/2010) - A Wisconsin Democracy Campaign review released today shows eleven contributors to Wisconsin candidates for statewide office and the legislature exceeded the annual $10,000 limit on individual contributions in 2009. The Democracy Campaign findings are based on state campaign finance reports filed by legislative, judicial and statewide candidates and political parties that show the sources of their campaign contributions and spending. The contributions were to both Democrats and Republicans. Click on the headline above to read more about this story and others at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/26/2010) - Former state Commerce Secretary Richard Leinenkugel has announced his Republican bid for the Wisconsin U.S. Senate seat held by Russ Feingold (D-WI). When Feingold took office 18 years ago, Leinenkugel said he was busy improving the state economy by expanding his family beer-making business in Chippewa Falls. In making a switch from Commerce Secretary to Republican Primary candidate for the seat held by Feingold, Leinenkugel tried to distance himself from Governor Jim Doyle (D-WI), who had appointed him Secretary, saying he was working for the state not the Governor or Democrats. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/23/2010) - The Wisconsin State Assembly has passed a Senate Bill designed to increase public safety. Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen says it creates a process to compel offenders who have failed to fulfill their legal obligations, to submit DNA specimens to the data bank. By having a more complete data bank of DNA information it is expected that the job of law enforcement will be swifter and more accurate. In a related matter, Van Hollen says there is no longer a DNA case backlog at the state crime lab. For more on this story at WisconsinReport.com click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/22/2010) - A federal court has banned eight companies and their principals from selling credit repair and mortgage relief services, and ordered them to pay more than 7.5 million dollars for deceiving consumers throughout the United States. the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charged seven of the companies and three officers with making false promises that they would improve consumers’ credit scores by removing negative information on credit reports. The FTC says the companies misled people, charged illegal advance payments, and did not provide written contracts required by law. See more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/21/2010) - Menomonee Falls Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI) has introduced a U.S. House bill that would require all candidates for federal office to publicly disclose campaign donations online before gaining access to the funds. Meanwhile, State health officials have praised Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle (D) for signing Act 209 (Assembly Bill 659). State Health Secretary Timberlake says it is a long-overdue modernization of state law governing HIV testing. For more on both of these stories at WisconsinReport.com, click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/20/2010) - This morning at the Capitol in Madison, a group of the largest businesses in Wisconsin, labor unions, farm organizations and other groups called for passage of the Clean Energy Jobs Act being considered by the state legislature. The groups are among nearly 300 businesses, labor unions and other organizations that are supporting the legislation. As the legislature considers the Clean Energy Jobs Act, citizens from across Wisconsin have created short videos to show why Wisconsin should pursue a clean energy future. For more click on the headline to go to WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/19/2010) - The Wisconsin Farmers Union is urging the Wisconsin legislature to pass legislation that will create jobs in the state, boost farms and support a foundation for clean energy. The Wisconsin Clean Energy Jobs Act is scheduled for a vote in the state Assembly Tuesday. A Wisconsin Public Service Commission study shows that there would likely be a 1.4 Billion dollar savings for the state if the legislation is enacted, contrary to what opponents of the bill have been saying, according to a Farmers Union spokesperson. For more at WisconsinReport.com click on the headline above. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/17/2010) - The University of Wisconsin at Madison has been named among Americas Top 10 Party Schools by Playboy magazine. UW-Madison is ranked number three in the rankings determined by Playboy editors, with input from Playboy magazine campus representatives, models, photographers, online voters, and student readers. Only the West Virginia University (Number 2) and the University of Texas at Austin (Number 1) rank higher than UW-Madison in the latest edition of Americas Top 10 Party Schools seen in the May issue of Playboy. For more on this story at WisconsinReport.com click on the headline above (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/16/2010) - Former Wisconsin Governor and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Tommy Thompson says he told his family he has decided not to take on U.S. Senator Russ Feingold in Feingold's bid for re-election. However, comments suggest he hasn't ruled out running for some office sometime in the future. Feingold says he hopes the attention can now get back to the issues rather than whether the once popular former governor will jump into the fray. Meanwhile, a member of the Leinenkugel Beer family sounds like he might run. Read more on this story and more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/12/2010) - The Wisconsin Business Council is lauding a new report by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue that showed the state and local tax burden at its lowest level since 1961 in a ranking of all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Wisconsin ranked 15th in state and local taxes per $1,000 of personal income and 21st per capita, the lowest ranking for Wisconsin since its general sales tax was adopted nearly 50 years ago. For more information about this story and more see WisconsinReport.com on the internet. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/10/2010) - The University of Wisconsin - Madison will end its licensing agreement with Nike as a result of the company's failure to adequately address the problems caused by the closing of two Honduran factories. According to UW-Madison, displaced workers at the two plants should have been paid a combined 2 million dollars. Even though Nike did not own the factories, the UW is holding them to the UW Code of Conduct for the actions of subcontractors. Read more about this story and others on the internet at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/08/2010) - Wisconsin has plenty of newsmakers this week, as usual. Wisconsin Nurses and Health Pros are applauding efforts by Governor Jim Doyle to rapidly implement the new federal Health Care Reform Law. The group likes the move to create a new office of National Health Care Reform this week. Meanwhile, Brigadier General Don Dunbar of Wisconsin is one of 35 people to be named to the Department of Homeland Security's newly formed Preparedness Task Force. Read more about these developments and more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (04/06/2010) - The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation says average prices on food items that the Bureau tracks as the Market Basket Survey, did not rise too much during the first quarter of 2010. However, there was a continuous upward trend in the overall average cost of the 20 items tracked. Compared to the last quarter of 2009, the total for the food items rose nearly a dollar and a half to almost 53 dollars. The largest single percent price increase was on sugar, attributed to conditions in the world market. Read more on this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (04/02/2010) - As elected officials and community leaders across the nation took part in Census Day activities to increase local participation in the 2010 Census April 1st, the U.S. Census Bureau announced that 54 percent of the nation's estimated 134 million households have mailed back their census forms. While April 1 was officially designated as Census Day, the Census Bureau will continue to accept 2010 Census questionnaires by mail through mid-April. If you don't answer by then, someone may be knocking on your door starting May 1, 2010. Read more on the internet at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (03/31/2010) - Communities nationwide are urging their residents to take 10 minutes on Thursday, April 1, Census Day, to fill out and mail back their 2010 Census forms if they haven't already done so. As the official reference date for the once-a-decade civic ceremony, Census Day will serve as the point-in-time benchmark for the nation's population count for the next 10 years. Residents still have time to fill out and mail back their ten question census form, saving the government about 57 dollars for each household that does not have to be visited by an enumerator. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (03/29/2010) - Governor Jim Doyle and First Lady Jessica Doyle have announced a new Organ Donor Registry for the State of Wisconsin. The web-based registry is intended to make it easier for Wisconsin residents to list themselves as a donor through a secure online database. The new Organ Donor Registry will help the more than 1500 people in Wisconsin currently on the recipient waiting list, and others in the future. All interested residents, including those who already have an orange dot on their drivers license, should register as a donor on the website. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (03/27/2010) - A grassroots movement from the other side of the fence is growing to be an alternative voice for people who do not necessarily agree with the tactics and apparent goals of the Tea Party. Coffee Party USA instead aims to reinvigorate the democratic process with civility, inclusiveness, and civic engagement. In addition to holding Coffee Party USA group Coffee Party Summit get togethers in many cities throughout the country this weekend, Coffee With Congress is scheduled March 29th through April 9th. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (03/26/2010) - The Fixes to the Senate Health Reform bill now go to the White House to become part of the new law signed by the President earlier this week. The U.S. House of Representatives voted 220 to 207 to give final okay to the minor changes made by the Senate to the Fixes sent to the Senate by the House. The Fixes are officially called the Health Care and Education Reconcilition Act. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says this completes what the late Senator Edward Kennedy called the great unfinished business. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (03/25/2010) - The United States Senate has approved a package of Fixes to the historic health care reform bill that President Obama signed into law Tuesday. The Senate vote on the Fixes was 56-43. The Fixes were sent to the Senate by the House following House approval of the Senate Health Reform bill last weekend. The Senate sent the Fixes package back to the House for a final Fixes vote due to some technical glitches in the Fixes that were uncovered in the Senate. Meanwhile, some Wisconsin Republicans want to authorize a lawsuit over the new federal Health Care Law. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (03/24/2010) - Now that President Obama has signed the Senate Health Reform Bill into law thanks to the approval of the House of Representatives, the House is moving on to boosting the economy. The House has passed two job creation and small business bills: the Small Business and Infrastructure Jobs Act and the Disaster Relief and Summer Jobs Act. It is hoped this will help businesses cope with the effects of the economy and create more jobs to get the economy moving in a positive direction. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (03/23/2010) - President Barack Obama has signed the Senate Health Reform bill into law, making good on a campaign promise that helped him get elected. The road to signing day was bumpy, slow and frustrating over more than a year since President Obama was sworn into office in January of 2009. Several provisions in the new law came from Senator Herb Kohl of Wisconsin. As President Obama was signing the bill, Attorneys General from more than a dozen states were filing lawsuits challenging the new law, and Washington D.C. Republicans have vowed to repeal it. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCREPORT.COM (03/22/2010) - The U.S. House of Representatives approved the Senate Health Care Reform bill 219-212 during a special weekend session in Washington D.C. They did so while also passing a separate House bill that fixes some of the things some people thought should not be included in the law. The original Senate bill now goes to President Obama for his signature, however, the Fixes now go to the Senate for approval. So Health Care Reform issues are not completely settled just yet. More at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (03/19/2010) - Wisconsin Department of Agriculture and Consumer Protection Secretary Rod Nilsestuen is applauding the announcement that China has reopened its markets to pork and pork products from the U.S. almost a year after slamming the door shut in the wake of the H1N1 scare. Meanwhile, a resolution is to be introduced on the U.S. House floor to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Earth Day and recognizing the efforts of former Wisconsin U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson who made Earth Day possible. Earth Day will be held April 22nd this year. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (03/17/2010) - The Small Business Council of America (SBCA) is urging Members of the House of Representatives to vote against the Senate health care reform bill. The SBCA believes the details of the legislation will not only harm small businesses and their ability to provide health care to employees, but SBCA suggests it could lead to the ultimate demise of the USA private health care system. A spokesperson says SBCA supports health care reform, but not as proposed in the House and Senate bills. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (03/15/2010) - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is helping to spread the word about an unusually high number of complaints to the Social Security Administration from Wisconsin residents about phishing phone calls. The department is reminding people that the Social Security Department does not ask for Social Security numbers over the phone. Real Social Security workers have access to that information if they need it without asking for it. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (03/11/2010) - After months of delay, the U.S. Senate has unanimously passed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senators Russ Feingold (D-WI), Sam Brownback (R-KS) and James Inhofe (R-OK). The Lords Resistance Army Disarmament and Northern Uganda Recovery Act requires the Obama administration to develop a new multifaceted strategy to help confront the regional crisis and continuing atrocities committed by the Lords Resistance Army (LRA), one of Africas longest-running rebel groups. Read more about this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (03/08/2010) - There has been a lot of talk about the possibility that former Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson (R-WI) might be joining the race against U.S. Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI) during this election round. Republican spokespeople are saying that Thompson has the right people in Washington D.C. wanting him to be the next senator from Wisconsin. The Feingold side says those Washington people are lobbyists who want the former Health and Human Services Secretary in the George W. Bush administration to do their bidding. Read more about this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (03/04/2010) - Wisconsin is not among the top 15 Phase One finalists in the running for federal Race To The Top educational dollars. Some Badger State elected officials are saying the debate over what was required to qualify may have been a factor. An Assembly Representative says the announcement does not lend credence to the argument by some that the legislature must approve a Mayoral takeover of Milwaukee Public Schools. Governor Doyle blames it on the legislature and Milwaukee not wanting to make needed reforms. A Ripon legislator says there is a second chance coming. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (03/01/2010) - Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. has announced that Toyota will be extending on a nationwide basis the additional services being provided to Toyota and Lexus customers in New York affected by the recent Toyota recalls. The services involve sticking accelerator pedals, floor mat pedal entrapment, anti-lock brake system software updates, and Tacoma front drive shaft inspection. Toyota says additional services are being provided to customers concerned about driving their vehicle before the repair is completed. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (02/26/2010) - Nearly 50 foreign nationals were arrested in central and western Wisconsin during a week-long enforcement action targeting criminal aliens and immigration fugitives. This operation was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with assistance from the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Border Patrol in Duluth, Minnesota. Arrests were made in Medford, Stratford, Altoona, Dorchester, Edgar, Wittenberg, Spencer, Loyal, Merrill, Antigo, Plover, Mosinee, Abbotsford and Marathon City. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (02/22/2010) - New federal regulations for consumer credit cards are now in effect. Lawmakers hope the new rules will be beneficial to consumers who have been having a rough time trying to meet all of the past requirements, fees, and interest rates that have been thrown at them. Congressman Steve Kagen, M.D., is among those praising the implementation of the CARD Act, which protects consumers by banning unfair credit card interest rate hikes and forbids abusive fees and penalties. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (02/19/2010) - Wisconsin State Senate Leader Russ Decker (D-Weston) is upset with accusations leveled at Democrats by Republican State Senator Scott Fitzgerald (Juneau). Fitzgerald says Democrats are raiding millions of dollars from the State Transportation Fund to use on what he calls Pet Projects, including fish fries. Senator Decker suggests that Fitzgerald should start using real facts, backed up with proof, if he can. The hub bub seems to be over a recent report on a Madison television station. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (02/15/2010) - Business and economics education is on the fast-track of growth at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP), with recent moves aimed at expanding student opportunities to earn a UW degree. The new School of Business and Economics at UWSP, previously known as the Division of Business and Economics, was officially renamed by the UW System to reflect changes that will enable accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AASCB) and broaden the academic experiences offered to business and economics majors. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (02/08/2010) - Childrens Hospital and Health System has launched the Wisconsin Childrens Advocacy Network to help Wisconsin residents advocate for children in public policy. Through C.A.N., families, business leaders, employees and others can help ensure and improve the health and well-being of all children. By joining C.A.N., members will receive updates on activities, learn about opportunities to contact legislators or be asked to participate in community events. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (02/05/2010) - Governor Doyle was in Wisconsin Rapids today to sign a bill that will pool federal recovery zone bonds to fund job-creating projects statewide. The Governor signed Senate Bill 440, authored by State Senator Julie Lassa (D-Stevens Point), and Assembly Representatives Marlin Schneider (D- Wisconsin Rapids), and Louis Molepske, Jr. (D-Stevens Point), at a ceremony at Energy Composites. The bill will clear the way to fund projects like the company proposed wind turbine blade manufacturing plant in Wisconsin Rapids, projected to create 600 jobs. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (02/01/2010) - Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin (ABC WI) filed an injunction Friday, January 29, 2010, in Dane County Circuit Court to prevent the implementation of a new law requiring contractors to electronically file extensive payroll data when working on public works projects. The law, adopted last May as part of the budget bill, became effective this January. The association says it unfairly treats non-union contractors differently than union contractors. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (01/28/2010) - A University of Wisconsin nuclear physics doctorate holder, who is now Chairman of the independent U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, is set to speak at a Washington D.C. forum. Prior to his pro-nuclear energy mention during the State of the Union speech before the joint meeting of the U.S. Senate and House members January 27th, it was said that the Obama administration sent conflicting signals to the power industry on the integration of nuclear into the energy mix. The NRC chairman will update power industry leaders on the regulatory issues affecting the current applications for new reactors. More at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (01/25/2010) - Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen has issued an informal opinion concluding that the long-standing practice of a committee created by the City of Racine to take action on specific loan projects through the use of email voting is a no-no. Van Hollen says to later confirm the results of the email vote at a subsequent committee meeting likely violated the public notice and open session requirements of the Wisconsin open meetings law. More on this story at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (01/21/2010) - Governor Jim Doyle unveiled a new self-funded health care plan today for adults without dependent children who are on the state health care waiting list. BadgerCare Plus Basic will provide enrollees with limited access to physicians, hospital services, generic prescriptions and catastrophic coverage, and will be paid for entirely through a monthly premium of $130. The Basic plan is designed to be a bridge plan to keep individuals healthy while they wait for space in the BadgerCare Plus Core Plan. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (01/19/2010) - Flambeau River Biofuels (FRB) has executed a letter of intent to engineer, procure, and construct (EPC) the largest second generation green diesel plant in the United States at an existing pulp and paper mill in Park Falls, Wisconsin. The $250 million project, funded in part with a grant from the U.S. Dept of Energy, is expected to be fully operational by 2013. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (01/17/2010) - The National Football League (NFL) and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) are donating $500,000 to the American Red Cross to aid victims of the earthquake in Haiti. The NFL and its network partners also ran pregame and in-game messages during the weekend playoff games valued at $1.5 million to promote donations. In addition, NFL owners and players are making their own personal donations. Read More At WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (01/14/2010) - People in the United States and in countries around the world are looking to assist in the recent earthquake disaster in Haiti. Many are unable to actively go to the country to help in digging out citizens from under the rubble of the buildings, but money and goods are needed to help survivors cope with being without lodging, food, water, and other basic needs. InterAction has a list of member organizations online that accept donations. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (01/14/2010) - With estimates that as many as three million people may be affected by the catastrophic earthquake which hit Haiti Tuesday, the American Red Cross is releasing an additional $9 million for earthquake relief, bringing its total commitment so far to $10 million to support relief efforts in Haiti. The Red Cross also has established a website to assist in locating family members and friends who may have been in Haiti during the earthquake. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (01/11/2010) - Wisconsin dairy farmers will be well represented on the newly formed Dairy Industry Advisory Committee, formed by USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. DATCP Secretary Rod Nilsestuen will join three other dairy leaders from the state on this 17-member group. According to USDA, over the next two years, the committee will review the issues of farm milk price volatility, dairy farmer profitability and consolidation, and offer suggestions on ways USDA can best address the needs of a struggling dairy industry. Read more at WisconsinReport.com. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (01/08/2010) - Now that National Guard and Reserve units are beginning to return from active duty in Iraq Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle is urging state employers to put the veterans back to work in the civilian sector as soon as possible. Within the next three weeks Doyle expects about 3200 Iraq veterans to return to the state. Federal law requires employers to take them back with open arms. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (1/5/2010) - The U.S. Senate Health Care bill recently passed by the Senate includes some provisions of the Control Spending Now Act (CSNA) introduced by Wisconsin U.S. Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI). The provisions would effectively lower the cost of prescription drugs, if included in the final version that comes out of the House-Senate Conference Committee. Senator Feingold says he will fight to keep the provisions in the final bill. In a WisconsinReport.com news story Feingold explains how the savings would come about. (read more)...
WISCONSINREPORT.COM (1/2/2010) - A former Winter High School student at Winter, Wisconsin, who is now an International Space Station Commander, will speak with current students from the orbiting space station. Commander Jeff Williams and two other astronauts are expected to join in the conversation with students in Winter and Hayward, Wisconsin on January 6th. The live call to the two schools will include videos. The live downlink is part of the Teaching From Space project from NASA. WisconsinReport.com has more. (read more)...
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