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< January 2009 >
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January 1
   Other
· Birthday -- Rep. Dan Meyer

January 3
   Other
· Birthday -- Rep. Anthony Staskunas

January 5
   State Government
· Assembly Committee on Fish and Wildlife Public Hearing
The committee will hold a public hearing on the following items at the time specified below: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 2:01 PM - Or upon conclusion of the Executive Session 417 North (GAR Hall) State Capitol Assembly Bill 577 Relating to: requiring the Department of Natural Resources to issue one-day fishing licenses. By Representatives Ballweg, M. Williams, Hraychuck, Brooks, Clark, Gunderson, Hixson, Kaufert, Kleefisch, Knodl, A. Ott, J. Ott, Smith, Suder, Townsend, Vos, Vruwink and Zigmunt; cosponsored by Senators Holperin, Darling, Erpenbach, Lassa, A. Lasee, Olsen, Schultz and Taylor. Assembly Bill 548 Relating to: possession of certain animals killed by vehicles. By Representatives Hraychuck, Zigmunt, Smith, Vruwink, Friske, Molepske Jr., Ballweg, Brooks, Gunderson, Garthwaite, Strachota, Danou, Berceau, Bies, Petrowski and M. Williams; cosponsored by Senators Holperin, Vinehout, A. Lasee, Taylor, Grothman, Schultz, Lassa, Hopper and Olsen. 2 p.m.
· Wisconsin Legislative Inauguration
State Capitol. 2 p.m.
· WisDOT news conference to announce 2008 traffic fatalities and the launch of Zero In Wisconsin traffic safety campaign
WisDOT, Hill Farms Bldg., Room 144-B, 4802 Sheboygan Ave., Madison. For more information, contact: Steve Olson, WisDOT Office of Public Affairs (608) 261-5896, steve.olson@dot.wisconsin.gov The Wisconsin Department of Transportation will hold a news conference in Madison on Monday, Jan. 5, at 1:30 p.m. to announce the number of Wisconsin traffic fatalities in 2008, which is expected to be the lowest since the 1940s. In addition, a new statewide traffic safety campaign will be launched in January called “Zero In Wisconsin—A Vision We Can All Live With.” The theme of the campaign is that one preventable traffic death is one too many. Zero in Wisconsin messages will be shown on TV, radio and Web sites statewide. Examples of the media messages will be shown and distributed on DVD at the news conference. * When: Monday, Jan. 5, at 1:30 p.m. * Where: WisDOT, Hill Farms Bldg., 4802 Sheboygan Ave., Madison, Room 144-B, * Speakers: * Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent David Collins; * Larry Kamholz, AAA Wisconsin community outreach and traffic safety specialist; * Dr. Thomas Brazelton, medical director of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and Critical Care Transport Team at American Family Children’s Hospital; * Mary Reinhart, who was the sole survivor of a crash (because she was buckled up) near Deerfield that killed her boyfriend and two friends. Mary is featured in the Zero In Wisconsin video. * Bonnie Stamm of Verona, whose daughter was hit and killed by a drunken driver while she was jogging. Bonnie also is featured in the Zero In Wisconsin video. ### 1:30 p.m.

January 6
   State Government
· Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules
300 Southeast, State Capitol. 12 p.m.
   Other
· Birthday -- Louis Molepske, Jr.
· DHS public hearing
Room 1150-A, 1 W. Wilson St., Madison. Hearing on rules establishing criteria for background checks for persons who provide personal care services. The rules require that caregivers disclose certain convictions. 9 a.m.
· First Lady Doyle delivers Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle? Game prize in Appleton
Contact: Carina Marquez-Barrientos, Office of the First Lady, 608-575-5608 First Lady Jessica Doyle will deliver a Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle? weekly winner prize to an elementary student on Tuesday, January 6, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Sunrise Elementary School in Appleton. While there, Mrs. Doyle will encourage students to learn more about their home state and win weekly prizes by playing this online game. Students in fourth through eighth grades can research the three clues found online each week to identify the mystery city. Game clues will be available after January 16th online at http://jessicadoyle.wi.gov/wheresjessica/. At 12:30 p.m., Mrs. Doyle will meet with Wisconsin Covenant students at Appleton West High School. Mrs. Doyle will speak with the students about keeping the Wisconsin Covenant pledge. The Wisconsin Covenant is a promise to all eighth graders that if they work hard and make the grade, they can expect a place in a Wisconsin institution of higher education, and a financial aid package based on family need. For more information, please visit http://wisconsincovenant.wi.gov/. First Lady Jessica Doyle’s Events for Tuesday, January 6, 2009: 11:00 a.m. Sunrise Elementary N9363 Exploration Ave Appleton 12:30 p.m. Appleton West High School 610 N Badger Ave Appleton 11 a.m.
· PSC Affirmative Action Advisory Council
Lake Namekagon Room, 610 N. Whitney Way, Madison. 1:30 p.m.
· UW Business School Dean Michael Knetter addresses Milwaukee Rotary Club
Milwaukee County War Memorial Building, 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive, Milwaukee. Michael Knetter, Dean of the Wisconsin School of Business at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, will discuss the economic outlook for 2009. While his short term outlook is cloudy and turbulent, Knetter has a long term positive outlook. Knetter believes that U.S. companies that have embraced technological change and globalization will be big winners and investors who embrace those companies and international markets broadly will also likely be big winners. 12 p.m.

January 7
   Other
· Electronic Recording Council
DOA, CR 9A, 101 E. Wilson St., Madison. Agenda 1. Call to Order 2. Recognition of public attendees 3. Approval of minutes from December 3 and December 12, 2008 4. Announcements that may relate to electronic recording 5. Action to approve and transmit MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with DOA for support of ERC 6. Hearings. Members should mention any changes to the following schedule: January 14 – Madison – 1:00 p.m. St. Croix Room, DOA, 101 E. Wilson Ave. January 15 – Green Bay – 2:00 p.m., Northern Building, Room 200, 305 E. Walnut St. January 21 – Eau Claire – 11:00 a.m., Eau Claire County Courthouse, Room 2550/2560, 721 Oxford Ave. 7. Comments regarding Chair’s introduction to the hearings. 8. Trusted submitter database. 9. Comments regarding Chair’s letter to the Governor 10. Chair is unable to attend February meeting. Can Vice-Chair conduct the meeting? 11. Agenda items for next meeting, and date, time and location 12. Adjourn 10 a.m.
· First Lady Jessica Doyle delivers Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle? Game prizes
Contact: Carina Marquez-Barrientos, Office of the First Lady, 608-575-5608 First Lady Jessica Doyle will deliver a weekly winner prize to an elementary student at Sheboygan Falls Elementary School in Sheboygan Falls on Wednesday, January 7, 2009 at 11:15 a.m. Later, at 12:40 p.m., Mrs. Doyle will visit Horace Mann Middle School in Sheboygan to present the weekly middle school winner prize. While there, Mrs. Doyle will encourage students to learn more about their home state by playing the online game. This is the sixth year of Mrs. Doyle’s fun and educational geography game. Each week during the school year, students fourth through eighth grade have the opportunity to visit http://whereisjessica.wi.gov and guess the mystery Wisconsin city based on three clues. New clues will be posted starting January 16, 2008. First Lady Jessica Doyle’s Events for Wednesday, January 7, 2009: 11:15 a.m. Sheboygan Falls Elementary School 1 Alfred W. Miley Avenue Sheboygan Falls 12:40 p.m. Horace Mann Middle School 2820 Union Avenue Sheboygan 11:15 a.m.
· Madison Mayor Cieslewicz unveils biking guide and new GO-GO campaign
Main Atrium, Overture Center, Madison. In an effort to further enhance and encourage bicycling throughout the Madison community, the City of Madison will launch a new Platinum Bike initiative this Wednesday, January 7 at 10:30a.m. at the Overture Center. Mayor Cieslewicz will highlight the work of the Platinum Bike Committee and unveil the new GO·GO promotional campaign and AT&T Bike Guide, which will be inserted into the AT&T Real Yellow Pages for Madison/Dane County Area and distributed to more than 650,000 homes in February. With: Mayor Dave Cieslewicz Scott VanderSanden, President of AT&T Wisconsin Platinum Bike Committee members Contact: Rachel Strauch-Nelson, (608) 266-4611 10:30 a.m.
· Milwaukee Press Club Newsmaker Luncheon on sick leave mandate
Newsroom Pub, 137 E. Wells St., Milwaukee.
· PSC telephone hearing
Water Works and Lighting Commission Building, 221 16th St. South, Wisconsin Rapids. 610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Rm., Madison. Application of the City of Wisconsin Rapids, as an Electric Public Utility, for Authority to Increase Electric Rates 10:30 a.m.
· State Superintendent Burmaster participates in School to Career Partnership session
CoVantage Credit Union, 723 Sixth Ave., Antigo. MADISON—State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster will speak at Wednesday evening’s session on “School to Career Partnership” at 5:30 p.m. at CoVantage Credit Union in Antigo. Those attending the event represent the Antigo, Elcho, White Lake, and Wittenberg-Birnamwood school districts. Burmaster and Lori Weyers, president of the Northcentral Technical College, will present information on the importance of business and education partnerships to the future economic health and growth of the area. Panels from industry and education also will make presentations during the event. CONTACT: Patrick Gasper, Communications Officer, (608) 266-3559 5:30 p.m.

January 8
   Business Events
· WIN Milwaukee
Brookfield Suites, 1200 S. Moorland Rd., Brookfield. “Wisconsin’s investment tax credits: What’s working and what happens next?” will feature: John Neis, managing director of Venture Investors LLC, Wisconsin’s leading early stage venture capital firm; Teresa Esser, managing director of Silicon Pastures; and Bill McCoshen, a former state Department of Commerce secretary who is currently executive director of Competitive Wisconsin Inc. Other panelists will be announced soon; Tech Council President Tom Still will moderate. For more information visit: http://www.wisconsintechnologycouncil.com/events/win/?ID=645 11:30 a.m.
   Other
· Dept. of Commerce public hearing
Commerce Center, Conference Room 3C, 201 W. Washington Ave., Madison. Hearing on proposed emergency rules reducing the fees for plan review and inspection of public swimming pool and water attraction modification. 10 a.m.
· DWD Secretary Gassman keynotes utility apprenticeship graduation
Holiday Inn, 1001 Amber Ave., Stevens Point. Discusses Economic, Workforce Development Challenges State Labor Secretary will highlight employment opportunities in energy sector MADISON – Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Roberta Gassman will address graduates of a rural and municipal utility apprenticeship training programs at 7:15 p.m., Thursday, January 8, 2008, in the Prairie Ballroom of the Holiday Inn, Stevens Point. In her remarks, Secretary Gassman will discuss challenges Wisconsin faces in addressing the state budget shortfall and growing the state economy. A member of Governor Doyle’s Cabinet, she leads the Department of Workforce Development and oversees more than 1,600 employees charged with strengthening Wisconsin’s workforce. CONTACT: Dick Jones, Agency Liaison, 608-267-4780 7:15 p.m.
· E-Mail Retention Team
DOA, Conference Room 4B, 101 E. Wilson St., Madison. Agenda 1. Update on industry related e-mail retention trends 20 minutes 2. Review Feedback received to date on Rev 1.2b 45 minutes 3. Update Communication Strategy 20 minutes 4. Training input 20 minutes 5. Next Steps 15 minutes 2 p.m.
· Evidence-Based Health Policy Project briefing: Rx for RNs: Addressing the Nursing Shortage
300 Southeast, State Capitol. Featuring Dr. Janet Allan, Dean of the University of Maryland School of Nursing; and Judy Warmuth, Vice President for Workforce Development at Wisconsin Hospital Association. For more information visit: http://www.med.wisc.edu/news/item.php?id=4107 9 a.m.
· Lt. Gov. Lawton announces major investment in new film infrastructure
R.D.I Stages, 2525 Crawford Ave., Milwaukee. Another Major Wisconsin Film Project will Also Be Announced Thanks to Wisconsin Film Incentives Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton will announce a major investment in new film infrastructure for Wisconsin and introduce a new feature film to be filmed in state on the one year anniversary of the enactment of tax incentives for the film and video game production industry at R.D.I. Stages at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2009. The event will feature guided facility tours, Milwaukee bands recording in various stage studios, animation demos and an open house for the web design firm housed in the complex. Contact: Ben Nuckels, Office of the Lt. Governor, 608-266-3516 5 p.m.
· PSC telephone hearing
West Allis City Hall, Room 128, 7525 West Greenfield Ave., West Allis. 610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Rm., Madison. Hearing on City of West Allis application to increase water rates. 9 a.m.
· PSC telephone hearing
Luck Municipal Building, 401 Main St., Luck. 610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Rm., Madison. Hearing on Luck Municipal Water Utility application to revise its public fire protection charge recovery method. 10 a.m.
· Racial Disparities Oversight Commission
Office of Justice Assistance, 1 S. Pinckney St., Suite 600, Madison. 11 a.m.
· Wisconsin Black Media Association honors former Milwaukee newscaster JoAnne Williams
InterContinental Hotel Milwaukee, 139 E. Kilbourn Ave., Milwaukee.
· Wisconsin State Use Board
DATCP, 2811 Agriculture Drive, Madison. 10 a.m.

January 9
   Other
· Governor's Advisory Council on Judicial Selection
210 Southeast, State Capitol. 9 a.m.
· OCI Property and Casualty Advisory Council
GEF 3, Room 227, 125 S. Webster St., Madison. 10 a.m.
· PSC telephone hearing
Village Hall, 240 North Jefferson St., Hancock. 610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Rm., Madison. Hearing on Hancock Municipal Water Utility application to increase water rates 9 a.m.
· Wisconsin Task Force on Arts and Creativity in Education presents action plan
Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, 1 John Nolen Drive, Madison. Steps that Wisconsin must take to further economic development through arts and creativity in education will be presented at a 9 a.m. press conference Friday at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in Madison. The press event opens the two-day Creative Wisconsin Summit. The final report and action plan of the Wisconsin Task Force on Arts and Creativity in Education is a result of a review of the current status of arts education in Wisconsin and some of the most important research done by experts in the field leading to recommendations for action. A news release and copies of the final task force report will be available after the press conference. Appointed in March 2008 by State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster and Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton, the Wisconsin Task Force on Arts and Creativity in Education held nine forums to gather input from Wisconsin citizens to inform its work and the final report. Both Lawton and Burmaster will speak at the press event, moderated by Wisconsin jazz and rock pianist Ben Sidran. They will be joined at the press conference by Sir Ken Robinson, internationally recognized leader in the development of creativity and innovation and keynote speaker for the Creative Wisconsin Summit. Burmaster and Lawton will conclude the press conference with a question and answer session. CONTACT: Ben Nuckels, Chief of Staff, Office of the Lt. Governor, (608) 266-3516 Patrick Gasper, DPI Communications Officer, (608) 266-3559 9 a.m.

January 10
   Other
· Birthday -- Rep. Annette Williams

January 11
   Other
· Birthday -- Rep. Frederick Kessler

January 12
   Business Events
· WAGE presents 'Economic Recovery in 2010?'
Fluno Center - Skyview Room, UW-Madison.
   Other
· First Lady Doyle visit Madison school
Stephens Elementary School, 120 S. Rosa Road, Madison. First Lady Jessica Doyle will meet with students at Stephens Elementary School in Madison on Monday, January 12, 2009 at 9:30 a.m. While there, Mrs. Doyle will explain her online book club, Read on Wisconsin!, available for students and educators across the state. Each month during the school year, Mrs. Doyle recommends books for five age groups ranging from infancy to high school. In addition to reading the books, students have the opportunity to discuss the books on the web site. To learn more about Read On Wisconsin! visit http://readon.wi.gov. Contact: Carina Marquez-Barrientos, Office of the First Lady, 608-575-5608 9:30 a.m.
· Gov. Doyle addresses business leaders, describes state’s economic challenges
Foley & Lardner LLP, 40th Floor Conference Center, 777 E. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee. Governor Jim Doyle will address business and investment leaders on Monday, January 12, 2009 at 10:45 a.m. at the Wisconsin Economic Forecast roundtable in Milwaukee. Governor Doyle will detail the impact of the national economic crisis on Wisconsin industries and the state budget and discuss the role the federal recovery plan could play in moving businesses and the state economy forward. Contact: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162 10:45 a.m.
· Gov. Jim Doyle addresses Greater Milwaukee Committee
University Club – Main Dining Room, 924 E. Wells St., Milwaukee. Governor to provide remarks on economic issues affecting the region at the January membership meeting of the Greater Milwaukee Committee Local business leaders will meet to hear Governor Jim Doyle speak at a membership meeting hosted by the Greater Milwaukee Committee on Monday, January 12 from noon – 1:30 p.m. The Governor is expected to speak on current issues affecting the economy and the Milwaukee 7 region, including recommendations for immediate action items to take place as part of the local and statewide economic recovery plans. CONTACT: Annie Nolan, 414-390-5500 Eric Paulsen, 414-905-0111 12 p.m.
· Sen. Miller, Rep. Black propose lakes protection measure
Assembly Parlor, State Capitol. INITIATIVE IS FIRST OF NEW ENVIRONMENTAL AGENDA MADISON—Assembly Natural Resources Committee Chair Spencer Black (D-Madison) and Senate Environment Committee Chair Mark Miller (D-Monona) will introduce a major lakes preservation bill Monday morning. The measure will ban phosphorus in lawn fertilizers. It is the first measure of what will be an ambitious environmental agenda for the new session. Rep. Black and Sen. Miller, along with Rep. Gary Bies (R-Sister Bay) and representatives of the Wisconsin Association of Lakes, will introduce the proposal at a news conference at 1:00 pm in the Assembly Parlor. CONTACT: Rep. Spencer Black (608) 266-7521 Sen. Mark Miller (608) 266-9170 1 p.m.
· Special committee on Justice Reinvestment Initiative Oversight
411 South, State Capitol.

January 13
   Business Events
· Inventors & Entrepreneurs Forum of Greater Milwaukee: Think Like, Walk Like and Quack like a Marketer
Tommy G. Thompson Youth Center, Wisconsin State Fair Park, 640 S. 84th St., West Allis. In this introductory session, attendees will learn the basics of structuring a marketing plan for their business. Topics of discussion will include: the true definition of marketing, getting to know your customer, evaluating your competition, defining your brand proposition, selecting vendors and business partners, an exploration of different marketing vehicles, and metrics. If you're in the process of starting a small business, or are already in business and want to learn how to start building your marketing plan, don't miss this session! The I & E Forum meets to network and learn more about various basic business aspects. Its meetings are held five times annually. The sessions are free and open to the public. Pre-registration is not required. 5:30 p.m.
· Milwaukee Rotary Club luncheon to focus on mandatory paid sick leave ordinance
Milwaukee County War Memorial Building, 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive, Milwaukee. In November 2008, Milwaukee residents overwhelmingly voted in support of a referendum that mandates employers in the city of Milwaukee to provide sick pay for employees. To explore the many facets of the legislation, the RCM program committee assembled a very thoughtful program that includes three of our own club members. Dan Vliet an attorney at Davis & Kuelthau will provide a factual overview of legislation. Then a panel including Paula Penebaker, Executive Director of the YWCA, John Mellowes, VP Charter Manufacturing and Lincoln Fowler, owner of Alterra Coffee Roasters will share their perspectives. 12 p.m.
· MMAC briefing on legal challenge to mandated sick leave ordinance
MMAC Offices, Suite 400, 756 N. Milwaukee St., Milwaukee MMAC's Mandated Sick Leave Legal Challenge: What does it mean? How can you help? The MMAC Board of Directors has approved pursuing a legal challenge to the City of Milwaukee's mandatory paid sick leave ordinance. Please join us at this briefing to hear from legal counsel and MMAC officials on our strategies, on what this legal action means for you, and how you can help in our fight to save jobs here in Milwaukee. Speakers include: Scott Beightol - Managing Partner, Michael Best and Friedrich Daniel J. Finerty - Godfrey & Kahn, S.C. For information visit: http://www.mmac.org/display/router.asp?docid=488&event=1192&startDate=01/13/09 7:30 a.m.
   Other
· AG Van Hollen announces Wisconsin schools' participation in National Amber Alert Poster Service Contest
St. Marcus School, 2215 N. Palmer St., Milwaukee. Kick-off Event Tuesday, January 13, 2009, 9:00 a.m., St. Marcus School, 2215 N. Palmer Street, Milwaukee to commemorate the 13th anniversary of the national Amber Alert system Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen will announce that Wisconsin schools will be participating in a national poster contest being launched in order to commemorate the thirteenth anniversary of the national Amber Alert system, which occurs on Tuesday, January 13, 2009. Also participating in Tuesday’s announcement will be last year’s poster contest winner, Jada Hutcherson along with University of Wisconsin basketball coach Rob Jeter, Sgt. Linda Reaves of the Milwaukee Police Department, Assistant Fire Chief Brian Glassel, State Fire Marshal Tina Virgil and Superintendent Henry Tyson. The poster contest is open to all 5th grade students in Wisconsin. Additional information on the contest can be found at http://www.amberalertwisconsin.org/docs/PosterContest.pdf The Amber Alert system is named in memory of nine-year-old Amber Hagerman, who was abducted while riding her bicycle in Arlington, Texas in 1996. Her body was located four days after she was reported missing. She had been brutally murdered. These events inspired Dallas-Forth Worth broadcasters to team with local law enforcement, creating a warning system to aid in the search for abducted children. Contact: Bill Cosh 608/266-1221 9 a.m.
· First Lady Doyle delivers Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle? grand prize
Contact: Carina Marquez-Barrientos, Office of First Lady Jessica Doyle, 608-575-5608 First Lady Jessica Doyle will deliver the Middle School Grand Prize in the Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle? geography game on Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at Woodworth Middle School in Fond du Lac. Mrs. Doyle will present an eighth grade student with a Milwaukee Madness Prize including a gift card toward an overnight stay for the family at the Downtown Hilton Hotel, passes to the Pabst Mansion, tickets to the Harley-Davidson Museum and other gift certificates. The Middle School Grand Prize Winner was selected randomly from over eleven thousand correct responses submitted in the fall semester. At 12:15 p.m., Mrs. Doyle will visit with students at Sabish Middle School in Fond du Lac. Mrs. Doyle will discuss the online geography game Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle? Each week, fourth through eighth grade students in Wisconsin have the opportunity to learn more about their home state and win weekly prizes by researching three clues given on the website to identify the mystery city. New game clues will be posted January 16, 2009 at http://whereisjessica.wi.gov. First Lady Jessica Doyle’s Events for Tuesday, January 13, 2009: 10:30 a.m. Woodworth Middle School, 101 Morningside Drive, Fond du Lac. 12:15 p.m. Sabish Middle School, 100 N. Peters, Fond du Lac. 10:30 a.m.
· Govs. Doyle, Pawlenty announce major joint initiative
Governor’s Conference Room, State Capitol. Governor Jim Doyle and Governor Tim Pawlenty will introduce a significant new initiative between Wisconsin and Minnesota, tomorrow, Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. in the Governor’s Conference Room at the State Capitol. Contact: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162 1:30 p.m.
· OCI Health Advisory Council
125 S. Webster St., Room 227, Madison. 10 a.m.
· OJA State Interoperability Council
1 S. Pinckney St., Suite 600, Madison. 10 a.m.
· PSC pre-hearing conference
610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Room., Madison. (Docket 6680-CE-173) Application by Wisconsin Power and Light Company to Construct up to 200 MW of Wind Generation to be Called Bent Tree Wind Farm, in Freeborn County, in South Central Minnesota 10 a.m.
· PSC telephone hearing
Village Hall, 75 South Leonard St., West Salem.610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Room, Madison. (Docket 6430-WR-105) Application of West Salem Municipal Joint Water and Sewer Utility, La Crosse County, Wisconsin, for Authority to Increase Water Rates 1 p.m.
· State Superintendent Burmaster opens annual New Wisconsin Promise Conference
Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, Exhibition Hall, 1 John Nolan Drive, Madison. The fifth annual New Wisconsin Promise Conference will draw educators from throughout Wisconsin to Madison on Tuesday and Wednesday for state and national speakers who will focus on revitalization of public education by increasing academic achievement through 21st century skills, focusing on district and school improvement, and enhancing engagement in learning. State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster will deliver the welcome address at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday. Prior to her address, the Patrick Marsh Middle School Band from Sun Prairie will perform. Mawi Asgedom, nationally recognized author and youth educator, will speak at 9 a.m. on “Whose School Is It? Creating an Inspiring Culture for All Students.” At 1 p.m., Jennifer James, a researcher, writer, and commentator, will present “Thinking in the Future Tense: Deep Change or Slow Death.” Gwendolyn Webb-Johnson, associate professor in educational administration at Texas A&M University, will speak about empowering all learners at 8 a.m. Wednesday. Her talk is called “Yes We Can: Culturally Responsive Pedagogy in Socially Just 21st Century Schools.” The Onalaska High School Pan Project will perform on steel drums at the conclusion of Wednesday’s luncheon. More than 80 sectional sessions will be presented throughout the two-day conference. A complete agenda is available on the Department of Public Instruction New Wisconsin Promise Conference website http://dpi.wi.gov/nwp/conference.html. CONTACT: Patrick Gasper, Communications Officer, (608) 266-3559 8:30 a.m.
· Wisconsin Association of Health Underwriters presents "Understanding Health Insurance Markets and The Educational Role of the Agent"
411 South, State Capitol. Four Focus Presentations: · Individual Health Insurance · Small Employer Group Insurance · Consumer Education & Lifestyle/Wellness · Large Employer Group Insurance One of the most confusing industries for consumers and legislators alike, is the health insurance market. Yet, for both, it has never been more important to understand how this market works so that sound decisions can be made. This 90 minute presentation will provide you with an overview of the entire health insurance marketplace in a concise, easy to understand manner and without all the industry speak and alphabet soup of acronyms. Experts who specialize in each of these markets will present information about the differences between small and large group health plans, the self funded industry, how to shop for the right agent, the truth about consumer driven health plans, how lifestyle behavior does affect health premiums and much more. Most importantly, they will explain how consumers in Wisconsin are affected by each of these markets. This presentation is provided by Wisconsin's Professional, Non-Profit Agent Associations: Wisconsin Association of Health Underwriters Professional Insurance Agents of Wisconsin National Association of Insurance & Financial Advisors (Wisconsin) Independent Insurance Agents of Wisconsin 2:30 p.m.
· Wisconsin Better Business Bureau workshop
10101 W. Greenfield Avenue, Suite 125, Milwaukee. The Wisconsin BBB will be holding a series of free workshops to help companies apply for the 2009 Torch Award for Business Ethics & Integrity. At these workshops, companies will learn how to apply, discover what the judges are looking for, see past winning applications and ask any questions about the process. Pre-registration is recommended, but not required. RSVP to Kristal at 414.847.6049 8 a.m.

January 14
· WBA Wisconsin Economic Forcast Luncheon
Monona Terrace Convention Center Madison, WI Noon - 2 pm
   Business Events
· WAGE presents International Economic Forecast for 2009
Sheraton Madison Hotel, 706 John Nolen Drive, Madison.
   Other
· DOA public hearing on Chapter Adm 70, CR 08-084
DOA, St. Croix Room, 101 E. Wilson St., 1st Floor, Madison. Notice is hereby given that pursuant to ss. 16.004(1), 227.11(2)(a), and 706.25(4), Stats., the Department of Administration will hold public hearings on the proposed rule order to create Chapter Adm 70 relating to technical standards for electronic recording of documents in the County Register of Deeds Offices in Wisconsin. Submission of Written Comments Interested persons are invited to present information at the hearings. Persons appearing may make an oral presentation but are also urged to submit facts, opinions and arguments in writing as well. Facts, opinions and arguments may also be submitted in writing without a personal appearance by mail addressed to: Donna Sorenson, Department of Administration, P.O. Box 7864, Madison, WI 53707-7864 or by email to Donna.Sorenson@Wisconsin.gov. Written comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on January 23, 2009, to be included in the record of rule-making proceedings. Analysis prepared by the Department of Administration Statutes Interpreted Section 706.25, Wis. Stats. Statutory Authority Sections 16.004(1) and 706.25(4), Wis. Stats. Related Statute or Rule Chapter 137, Stats. Chapter Adm 13, Wis. Adm. Code Plain language analysis Pursuant to s. 706.25(4), Wis. Stats., the Department of Administration is required to promulgate by rule the standards adopted, amended or repealed by the Council under Uniform Real Property Electronic Recording Act. The proposed rule is created to provide technical standards for electronic recording of documents in the offices of the Register of Deeds in Wisconsin. The rule does not require any entity to record electronically. Comparison with federal regulations There are no federal regulations proposed for electronic document recording in the local offices of the register of deeds at this time. Comparison of Similar Rules in Adjacent State Though they have not adopted formal administrative rules to date, Iowa and Minnesota have adopted the URPERA and established business rules which require advance submitter agreements. Model 2 and 3 technology, PRIA standards and trusted submitter agreements are used in both Iowa and Minnesota for electronic recording of documents. The Minnesota Legislature adopted URPERA in the spring of 2008. The Commission established under the Minnesota URPERA law will assume responsibility from the sun-setting earlier established Electronic Recording Task Force and then may well develop administrative rules for electronic recording. As of this time, no implementing rules are in place. The Iowa Legislature passed legislation establishing an Electronic Transaction Fee in order to establish a statewide system for accepting documents electronically. The system, called the County Land Record Information System (see www.iowalandrecords.org), is owned by the Iowa County Recorders and supported by a private project manager. Michigan and Illinois have not progressed as far as Iowa or Minnesota. Comparison with federal regulations There are no federal regulations proposed for electronic document recording in the local offices of the register of deeds at this time. Summary of factual data Surveys were conducted of most the register of deeds offices in the Midwest and phone interviews were conducted of other register/recorder/clerk’s offices who are actively recording documents electronically. Laws and rules regarding electronic recording from other states were reviewed. Various experts attended council meetings and gave presentations that greatly enhanced understanding of issues and technology: · Mark Ladd, Technology Coordinator for the Property Records Industry Association (PRIA), shared updates on guidelines of this standard-setting organization; · Tim Reiniger of the National Notary Association explained his group’s desire for increased education for notaries and implementation of electronic notarization; · Susan Churchill of the Wisconsin Secretary of State’s Office explained plans to create a database of Wisconsin notaries; · Phil Dunshee, gave presentations on the Iowa Recorders Association’s statewide portal for accessing information and recording electronic documents; · Marc Aronson from the US Notaries organization spoke on the National Uniform Committee’s work on uniform notary law and his perspective on a range of acceptable methods for notaries; · Lisa Nelson and Luann Kohlmann of Associated Bank in Middleton explained electronic funds transactions that can be used to make payments for electronic recordings; · Bush Nielsen, counsel for the Wisconsin Land Title Association gave an interesting presentation on the importance of the prompt and proper order of recording documents; · Mark Saunders, deputy legal counsel and Donna Sorenson, paralegal for the Wisconsin Department of Administration, reviewed the administrative rule form, wording, process and timeline; and · Council administrative support provided by Amy K. Moran of the Department of Administration and Jim Pahl-Washa of the Department of Revenue. Small Business ImpactThe proposed rule will provide a clear path for recording documents electronically in Wisconsin allowing for speedier processing of conveyances. The proposed rule will have no significant economic impact on a substantial number of small businesses as defined in s. 227.114(1), Wis. Stats. Fiscal Estimate State Fiscal Effect This rule will provide technical standards for electronic recording of documents in the local Register of Deeds Offices in Wisconsin. It requires the Wisconsin Electronic Recording Council to identify and approve “trusted submitters,” which are private entities that would be approved to record documents electronically in Wisconsin. The rule does not require any entity to record electronically. Recording fees are unchanged by the rule. Wisconsin does not have a state-level Register of Deeds and the State would not be impacted by costs to implement electronic recording. The rule does not impact the current level of administrative support provided to the Wisconsin Electronic Recording Council by state resources or staff. As a consumer, the State records documents with local Registers and pays recording and some copying fees. If the State elects to use electronic recording in counties which allow it, there may be some increased cost from software purchases or from trusted submitter fees. Since it is currently not known how many counties will elect to implement electronic recording, the cost to the State is indeterminate. Local Fiscal Effect The rule does not require local Registers to allow electronic recording of documents. However, if the local Register of Deeds Office chooses to allow electronic recording, it would need to purchase specific software that would enable it to receive documents for recording, indexing and returning a copy of the documents once recording is completed. There are approximately 17 large to mid-sized counties that are currently accepting certain documents for electronic recording. There are several vendors of electronic recording software, but costs for the systems vary and the cost appears to depend on the level of use. Local Registers may also experience reduced costs as a result of electronic recording; including saving on scanning, copying and mailing costs, as well as more efficient identification and correction of errors in documents. The fiscal impact on local units of government that choose to allow electronic recording is indeterminate. In addition, the proposed rule would not require local government entities to incur any costs since participation is voluntary. Agency Contact Person: Donna Sorenson Department of Administration 101 E. Wilson Street P.O. Box 7864 Madison, WI 53707-7864 (608) 266-2887 Donna.Sorenson@Wisconsin.gov Copies of proposed rules The proposed rule may be viewed and downloaded and comments electronically submitted at the following Internet site: http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov. If you do not have Internet access, a copy of the proposed rule may be obtained from Donna Sorenson, Department of Administration, P.O. Box 7864, Madison, Wisconsin 53707 or by calling (608) 266-2887. 1 p.m.
· First Lady Doyle visits Eau Claire schools
Contact: Carina Marquez-Barrientos, Office of the First Lady, 608-575-5608 First Lady Jessica Doyle will visit with students at Eau Claire Memorial High School on Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at 11:30 a.m. in Eau Claire. Mrs. Doyle and the students will discuss this year’s Read On Wisconsin! high school selections. Read On Wisconsin! is Mrs. Doyle’s online book club for students and educators across the state. Each month during the school year, Mrs. Doyle recommends books for five age groups ranging from infancy to high school. In addition to reading the books, students have the opportunity to discuss the books on the web site. To learn more about Read On! visit http://readon.wi.gov. At 12:45 p.m., Mrs. Doyle will meet with students at Roosevelt Elementary School. Mrs. Doyle will speak to the students about the importance of reading and strong study habits to succeed at school. Mrs. Doyle will also encourage students to learn more about their home state and win weekly prizes by playing this online game. Students in fourth through eighth grades can research the three clues found online each week to identify the mystery city. New clues will be posted January 16th at: http://jessicadoyle.wi.gov/wheresjessica/. Later, at 1:30 p.m., Mrs. Doyle will meet with Covenant students at Eau Claire North High School. Mrs. Doyle will speak with the students about keeping the Wisconsin Covenant pledge. The Wisconsin Covenant is a promise to all eighth graders that if they work hard and make the grade, they can expect a place in a Wisconsin institution of higher education, and a financial aid package based on family need. For more information, please visit http://wisconsincovenant.wi.gov/. First Lady Jessica Doyle’s Events for Wednesday, January 14, 2009: 11:30 a.m. Eau Claire Memorial High School, 2225 Keith St., Eau Claire. 12:45 p.m. Roosevelt Elementary School, 3010 8th St., Eau Claire. 1:30 p.m. Eau Claire North High School, 1801 Piedmont Road, Eau Claire. 11:30 a.m.
· Governor's Juvenile Justice Strategic Planning Committee
1 S. Pinckney St., Suite 600, Madison. 8 a.m.
· PSC telephone hearing
Municipal Bldg/Fire Station, 205 State St., Ontario. 610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Room, Madison. (Docket 4420-WR-102) Application of Ontario Municipal Water Utility, Vernon County, Wisconsin, for Authority to Increase Water Rates 9 a.m.
· PSC telephone hearing
Plymouth City Hall, Room No. 305, 128 Smith St., Plymouth. 610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Room, Madison. (Docket 4740-SR-102) Application of Plymouth Utilities, Sheboygan County, Wisconsin, for Authority to Increase Sewer Rates 10 a.m.
· PSC telephone hearing
Village Municipal Center, Board Room, 5500 Schofield Ave., Weston.610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Room, Madison. (Docket 6420-WR-102) Application of Weston Water Utility, Marathon County, Wisconsin, for Authority to Increase Water Rates 1 p.m.
· Violence Against Women Act Statewide Advisory Committee
Osthoff Hotel, 101 Osthoff Ave., Elkhart Lake. 7 p.m.
· Wisconsin Association of Assessing Officers Working Group
Dept. of Revenue, Events Room, 2135 Rimrock Road, Madison. 9:30 a.m.
· Wisconsin Citizen Corps Council
1 S. Pinckney St., Suite 600, Madison. 10 a.m.
· Wisconsin Drug Endangered Children Alliance
Dept. of Corrections Training Center, 3099 E. Washington Ave., Madison. 10 a.m.
· WisPolitics Luncheon with Rep. Mike Sheridan
The Madison Club, 5 E. Wilson St., Madison. Incoming Assembly Speaker Mike Sheridan, a state representative since 2004, will lead the new Democratic majority in the upcoming legislative session. Sheridan is the retired president of the UAW Local 95 and worked at General Motors for over 30 years. The 2009 luncheon series is sponsored by The Ho Chunk Nation, WHD Government Affairs, Flaherty & Associates and Xcel Energy. The events are open to the public, and the price for lunch is $15 for WisPolitics.com subscribers and Madison Club members, $19 for the general public. Call the Madison Club to register at (608) 255-4861. The luncheons start at 11:45 a.m. and ends at 1 p.m. 11:45 a.m.

January 15
   Fundraisers
· Reception for Dane Co. Exec. Falk
Home of Diane Ballweg, 350 S. Hamilton St., Madison. Host: Governor Jim Doyle. Suggested minimum contribution: $50. Sponsorships: $500, $250, $100. Please make checks payable to Friends of Kathleen Falk,PO Box 8832, Madison, WI, 53708 or donate on line at www.katheenfalkforcountyexec.com. For more information contact Melissa Mulliken at (608) 231-3859 or melissa@mmulliken.com. 5 p.m.
   State Government
· Government Accountability Board
Room 150, Risser Justice Building, 120 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Madison. 9:30 a.m.
   Business Events
· WIN Northwest: Tapping statewide academic R&D assets
D J Bordini Center, 5 Systems Drive, Appleton. Linda Freed, director of the UW-Oshkosh Office of Grants and Faculty Development, will join Wisconsin Technology Council President Tom Still in a discussion of “The Wisconsin Edge: Academic R&D” and how businesses can tap into Wisconsin’s research assets. For details visit http://www.wisconsintechnologycouncil.com/events/win/?ID=639 4:45 p.m.
· Wisconsin Economic Forecast Luncheon
Monona Terrace, 1 John Nolen Drive, Madison.
   Other
· Dept. of Commerce Electrical Code Advisory Council
Dept. of Commerce, Room 3C, 201 W. Washington Ave.,Madison. 9:30 a.m.
· DHS Income Maintenance Advisory Committee
Fed Oak, 1 Fen Oak Court, Madison. 1 p.m.
· DOA public hearing on Chapter Adm 70, CR 08-084
Northern Building, Room 200, 305 E. Walnut St., Green Bay. Notice is hereby given that pursuant to ss. 16.004(1), 227.11(2)(a), and 706.25(4), Stats., the Department of Administration will hold public hearings on the proposed rule order to create Chapter Adm 70 relating to technical standards for electronic recording of documents in the County Register of Deeds Offices in Wisconsin. Submission of Written Comments Interested persons are invited to present information at the hearings. Persons appearing may make an oral presentation but are also urged to submit facts, opinions and arguments in writing as well. Facts, opinions and arguments may also be submitted in writing without a personal appearance by mail addressed to: Donna Sorenson, Department of Administration, P.O. Box 7864, Madison, WI 53707-7864 or by email to Donna.Sorenson@Wisconsin.gov. Written comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on January 23, 2009, to be included in the record of rule-making proceedings. Analysis prepared by the Department of Administration Statutes Interpreted Section 706.25, Wis. Stats. Statutory Authority Sections 16.004(1) and 706.25(4), Wis. Stats. Related Statute or Rule Chapter 137, Stats. Chapter Adm 13, Wis. Adm. Code Plain language analysis Pursuant to s. 706.25(4), Wis. Stats., the Department of Administration is required to promulgate by rule the standards adopted, amended or repealed by the Council under Uniform Real Property Electronic Recording Act. The proposed rule is created to provide technical standards for electronic recording of documents in the offices of the Register of Deeds in Wisconsin. The rule does not require any entity to record electronically. Comparison with federal regulations There are no federal regulations proposed for electronic document recording in the local offices of the register of deeds at this time. Comparison of Similar Rules in Adjacent State Though they have not adopted formal administrative rules to date, Iowa and Minnesota have adopted the URPERA and established business rules which require advance submitter agreements. Model 2 and 3 technology, PRIA standards and trusted submitter agreements are used in both Iowa and Minnesota for electronic recording of documents. The Minnesota Legislature adopted URPERA in the spring of 2008. The Commission established under the Minnesota URPERA law will assume responsibility from the sun-setting earlier established Electronic Recording Task Force and then may well develop administrative rules for electronic recording. As of this time, no implementing rules are in place. The Iowa Legislature passed legislation establishing an Electronic Transaction Fee in order to establish a statewide system for accepting documents electronically. The system, called the County Land Record Information System (see www.iowalandrecords.org), is owned by the Iowa County Recorders and supported by a private project manager. Michigan and Illinois have not progressed as far as Iowa or Minnesota. Comparison with federal regulations There are no federal regulations proposed for electronic document recording in the local offices of the register of deeds at this time. Summary of factual data Surveys were conducted of most the register of deeds offices in the Midwest and phone interviews were conducted of other register/recorder/clerk’s offices who are actively recording documents electronically. Laws and rules regarding electronic recording from other states were reviewed. Various experts attended council meetings and gave presentations that greatly enhanced understanding of issues and technology: · Mark Ladd, Technology Coordinator for the Property Records Industry Association (PRIA), shared updates on guidelines of this standard-setting organization; · Tim Reiniger of the National Notary Association explained his group’s desire for increased education for notaries and implementation of electronic notarization; · Susan Churchill of the Wisconsin Secretary of State’s Office explained plans to create a database of Wisconsin notaries; · Phil Dunshee, gave presentations on the Iowa Recorders Association’s statewide portal for accessing information and recording electronic documents; · Marc Aronson from the US Notaries organization spoke on the National Uniform Committee’s work on uniform notary law and his perspective on a range of acceptable methods for notaries; · Lisa Nelson and Luann Kohlmann of Associated Bank in Middleton explained electronic funds transactions that can be used to make payments for electronic recordings; · Bush Nielsen, counsel for the Wisconsin Land Title Association gave an interesting presentation on the importance of the prompt and proper order of recording documents; · Mark Saunders, deputy legal counsel and Donna Sorenson, paralegal for the Wisconsin Department of Administration, reviewed the administrative rule form, wording, process and timeline; and · Council administrative support provided by Amy K. Moran of the Department of Administration and Jim Pahl-Washa of the Department of Revenue. Small Business ImpactThe proposed rule will provide a clear path for recording documents electronically in Wisconsin allowing for speedier processing of conveyances. The proposed rule will have no significant economic impact on a substantial number of small businesses as defined in s. 227.114(1), Wis. Stats. Fiscal Estimate State Fiscal Effect This rule will provide technical standards for electronic recording of documents in the local Register of Deeds Offices in Wisconsin. It requires the Wisconsin Electronic Recording Council to identify and approve “trusted submitters,” which are private entities that would be approved to record documents electronically in Wisconsin. The rule does not require any entity to record electronically. Recording fees are unchanged by the rule. Wisconsin does not have a state-level Register of Deeds and the State would not be impacted by costs to implement electronic recording. The rule does not impact the current level of administrative support provided to the Wisconsin Electronic Recording Council by state resources or staff. As a consumer, the State records documents with local Registers and pays recording and some copying fees. If the State elects to use electronic recording in counties which allow it, there may be some increased cost from software purchases or from trusted submitter fees. Since it is currently not known how many counties will elect to implement electronic recording, the cost to the State is indeterminate. Local Fiscal Effect The rule does not require local Registers to allow electronic recording of documents. However, if the local Register of Deeds Office chooses to allow electronic recording, it would need to purchase specific software that would enable it to receive documents for recording, indexing and returning a copy of the documents once recording is completed. There are approximately 17 large to mid-sized counties that are currently accepting certain documents for electronic recording. There are several vendors of electronic recording software, but costs for the systems vary and the cost appears to depend on the level of use. Local Registers may also experience reduced costs as a result of electronic recording; including saving on scanning, copying and mailing costs, as well as more efficient identification and correction of errors in documents. The fiscal impact on local units of government that choose to allow electronic recording is indeterminate. In addition, the proposed rule would not require local government entities to incur any costs since participation is voluntary. Agency Contact Person: Donna Sorenson Department of Administration 101 E. Wilson Street P.O. Box 7864 Madison, WI 53707-7864 (608) 266-2887 Donna.Sorenson@Wisconsin.gov Copies of proposed rules The proposed rule may be viewed and downloaded and comments electronically submitted at the following Internet site: http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov. If you do not have Internet access, a copy of the proposed rule may be obtained from Donna Sorenson, Department of Administration, P.O. Box 7864, Madison, Wisconsin 53707 or by calling (608) 266-2887. 2 p.m.
· Fourth Street Forum: Babies dying: Wisconsin's epidemic
Turner Hall, 1034 N. 4th St., Milwaukee. Three African American babies die in Wisconsin for every white baby. And Hispanic deaths are elevated too. The latest statistics show we are improving, but what more can be done? In collaboration with the Medical College of Wisconsin’s Healthy Wisconsin Leadership Institute. MPTV Broadcast Dates: January 16 and 18 Moderator: DENISE CALLAWAY, Director of Communications, Greater Milwaukee Foundation WITH GUESTS BEVAN BAKER Health Commissioner City of Milwaukee www.milwaukee.gov/health PATRICIA McMANUS, PhD Executive Director Black Health Coalition www.bhcw.org EMMANUEL NGUI, PhD Assistant Professor Center for the Advancement of Underserved Children, Department of Pediatrics Medical College of Wisconsin www.mcw.edu KAREN TIMBERLAKE Secretary of the Department of Health Services State of Wisconsin dhs.wisconsin.gov 12 p.m.
· Gov. Doyle addresses business leaders, discusses state’s economic challenges
Monona Terrace, 1 John Nolen Drive, Madison. Governor Jim Doyle will deliver the opening address to over 500 business and investment leaders on Thursday, January 15, 2009 at 12:30 p.m. at the 2009 Wisconsin Economic Forecast Luncheon in Madison. Governor Doyle will detail the impact of the national economic crisis on Wisconsin industries and the state budget and discuss the role the federal recovery plan could play in moving businesses and the state economy forward. Contact: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162 12:30 p.m.
· Public Service Commission Flambeau River Conference Room, 610 N. Whitney Way, Madison.
· State Superintendent’s Advisory Council on Rural Schools, Libraries, and Communities GEF 3, DPI Mediasite Room 513, Madison.
· Violence Against Women Act Statewide Advisory Committee
Osthoff Hotel, 101 Osthoff Ave., Elkhart Lake. 9 a.m.

January 16
   State Government
· Joint committee on Legislative Organization
Legislative Council Conference Room, 1 E. Main St., Suite 401, Madison. Subcommittee on Legislative Services 9 a.m.
   Business Events
· Wisconsin Agricultural Economic Outlook Forum
Microbial Sciences Building, 1550 Linden Drive, Madison.
   Other
· AG Van Hollen holds law enforcement roundtable
Marquette County Sheriff's Dept., Public Safety Room, 67 W. Park St., Montello. 2:30 p.m.
· DCF Division of Family and Economic Security
GEF 1, D203, 201 E. Washington Ave., Madison. Bureau of Working Families W-2 Contract and Implementation meeting for W-2 agencies. 10 a.m.
· DVA Gulf War Illnesses Recognition Day Ceremony
Wisconsin Veterans Museum, Education Center, 30 W. Mifflin St., Madison. The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) will host a Gulf War Illnesses Recognition Day Ceremony. The ceremony is being held in advance of the actual date of observance, January 17, 2009. 2005 Wisconsin Act 37 recognizes January 17th as Gulf War Illnesses Recognition Day in the state, a day statutorily designated for recognition of those who still suffer from post-deployment health issues. Wisconsin was the first state in the nation to designate an annual observance, with the first observance held in 2006. A Governor’s Proclamation will be presented during the ceremony. WDVA Acting Secretary Ken Black will be the opening speaker. The scheduled emcee is Anthony Hardie, WDVA Executive Assistant and a Gulf War veteran, who has testified before Congress and served in an advisory capacity on Gulf War veterans’ health issues for numerous governmental bodies and non-profits. Hardie served as a panel member before the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Research Advisory Committee that in November 2008 released a report finding that exposure to toxic chemicals sickened one in four of Gulf War veterans and concluding that Gulf War illness is a legitimate health condition. Invited guest speakers include Gulf War veterans and Wisconsin state legislators. Attendees will include members of the Wisconsin Board of Veterans Affairs, staff from regional and local VA medical facilities, members of the Wisconsin veterans services community, and Gulf War veterans. Legislators, veterans and the public are invited to attend. For further information about Gulf War Illnesses, as well as WDVA programs and activities, go to www.dva.state.wi.us or call toll-free at 1-800-WIS-VETS (1-800-947-8387). Contact: Andrew Schuster 608-267-1797 or Kathleen Scholl 608-267-3582 11 a.m.
· First Lady Doyle visits Townsend Street Elementary School
3360 N. Sherman Blvd., Milwaukee. First Lady Jessica Doyle will visit with students at Townsend Street Elementary School on Friday, January 16, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. in Milwaukee. Mrs. Doyle will encourage the students to learn more about their home state and win weekly prizes by playing the online game Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle? Each week during the school year students in fourth through eighth grades can research three clues found at http://whereisjessica.wi.gov to identify the mystery city. New clues will be posted January 16th. Contact: Carina Marquez-Barrientos, Office of the First Lady, 608-575-5608 11 a.m.
· Gov. Doyle announcement regarding 2016 Olympic Games
Governor’s Conference Room, State Capitol. Governor Jim Doyle will make an announcement regarding the 2016 Chicago Olympic bid tomorrow, Friday, January 16, 2009 at 3:15 p.m. in the State Capitol in Madison. The Governor will be joined by representatives from Chicago 2016, Olympians and supporters to announce bid updates that have evolved as the result of an extensive collaboration process with Olympic and Paralympic athletes and various others affiliated with the Olympic Movement, the City of Chicago and the City of Madison and surrounding areas. Contacts: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162 Mica Matsoff, Chicago 2016, 312-861-4826 3:15 p.m.
· IBA of Wisconsin presents "KRM Commuter Rail: The Proposed Project"
The Wisconsin Club, Milwaukee. Keynote Speaker: Thomas A. Rubin, Reason Foundation, Author of the KRM Corridor Transit Service Options Study Plus Scott Walker, Milwaukee County Executive and Kenneth Yunker, Deputy Director of the Southeastern WI Regional Planning Commission (SEWRPC) will discuss on the pros and cons of the Kenosha Racine Milwaukee (KRM) commuter rail proposed project. These are the two experts to give us both sides to this funding issue. The IBA of Wisconsin is producing the event, Press is welcome to attend. For more information on this event, please contact the IBA office at 608-251-5546 or iba@ibaw.com 7 a.m.
· Kenosha Co. Exec. Kreuser discusses proposed federal stimulus package plan
Brass Ball Mobil, 25406 75th St., Kenosha. Kenosha County Executive Jim Kreuser will attend a news conference at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, January 16 at Brass Ball Mobil, where details of a proposed federal stimulus package plan will be discussed. Kreuser, in cooperation with other area and state elected officials, will voice their support for the program, known as “A Plan.” Officials will be joined at the news conference by small business owners from the area, and Carl R. Edenhofer Jr., owner of Brass Ball Mobil and the author of A Plan. Edenhofer said he drafted the stimulus program in response to Congress and the President not hearing the voices of the people on the street regarding the economy. Kreuser and other officials in attendance will sign a joint request asking the Wisconsin Congressional delegation to present A Plan to the full Congress for consideration as part of any additional stimulus program or future distribution of the remaining Troubled Assets Relief Program funds. A copy of A Plan can be seen at www.mainstreetnotwallstreet.us. Contact: Jennie Tunkieicz (262)653-2831 1:30 p.m.
· KRM Corridor Transit Service Options: An Investigation and Analysis Milwaukee County Courthouse, Room 203P, 901 N. 9th St., Milwaukee.
· Milwaukee God Squad holds “Defending Our Choices Summit”
New Jerusalem Evangelistic Temple, 925 West Burleigh St., Milwaukee. Pastor David King, founder of Milwaukee God Squad announced the Defending our Choices Summit which will educate Milwaukee parents on how they can keep the right to send their children to the public, private and charter school of their choice. The parental summit will be held in Milwaukee on Friday, January 16th and Saturday, January 17th . “Several Milwaukee legislators introduced a bill last week that will harm the ability of parents to choose the education that will best meet their child’s educational needs,” said Pastor David King. “As a result, we felt it was necessary to bring community grass roots leaders together to discuss how to hold our elected officials accountable to the community”, said Pastor David King. Pastor David King announced “We are going to launch the Year of Accountability” to hold parents, schools, businesses, and our elected officials accountable for not only for the disappointments of the Milwaukee Public School system, but also for our elected officials’ efforts to gut the Milwaukee school choice program.” The Milwaukee God Squad will be inviting legislators, candidates for the spring election for DPI, and school choice experts to testify on what the citizens can do to support giving parents the right to choose the best school for their children. The Milwaukee God Squad was formed six years ago to provide leadership at the grass roots level to combat civic problems in Milwaukee. Contact: Pastor David King, (414) 719-6207 4 p.m.
· OCI Affirmative Action Advisory Committee
125 S. Webster St., Conference Room 219, Madison. 10 a.m.
· UW Board of Regents
1720 Van Hise Hall, 1220 Linden Drive, Madison. To be held by telephone conference AGENDA Convene in open session and consider a motion to move into closed session, to consider appointment of chancellors of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay as permitted by s.19.85(1)(c) and (e), Wis. Stats. 2 p.m.
· Violence Against Women Act Statewide Advisory Committee
Osthoff Hotel, 101 Osthoff Ave., Elkhart Lake. 9 a.m.
· Wisconsin Crime Victims Council
Risser Justice Center, Room 150A, 17 W. Main St., Madison. 10 a.m.

January 17
   Other
· Milwaukee God Squad holds “Defending Our Choices Summit”
New Jerusalem Evangelistic Temple, 925 West Burleigh St., Milwaukee. Pastor David King, founder of Milwaukee God Squad announced the Defending our Choices Summit which will educate Milwaukee parents on how they can keep the right to send their children to the public, private and charter school of their choice. The parental summit will be held in Milwaukee on Friday, January 16th and Saturday, January 17th . “Several Milwaukee legislators introduced a bill last week that will harm the ability of parents to choose the education that will best meet their child’s educational needs,” said Pastor David King. “As a result, we felt it was necessary to bring community grass roots leaders together to discuss how to hold our elected officials accountable to the community”, said Pastor David King. Pastor David King announced “We are going to launch the Year of Accountability” to hold parents, schools, businesses, and our elected officials accountable for not only for the disappointments of the Milwaukee Public School system, but also for our elected officials’ efforts to gut the Milwaukee school choice program.” The Milwaukee God Squad will be inviting legislators, candidates for the spring election for DPI, and school choice experts to testify on what the citizens can do to support giving parents the right to choose the best school for their children. The Milwaukee God Squad was formed six years ago to provide leadership at the grass roots level to combat civic problems in Milwaukee. Contact: Pastor David King, (414) 719-6207 9 a.m.
· OCI Life Advisory Council
125 S. Webster St., Room 227, Madison. 10 a.m.
· Pro-Life Wisconsin Rally for Life
Three Holy Women Parish, St. Rita’s Church, 1601 N. Cass St., Milwaukee. Featuring Jim Sedlak Jim Sedlak, a nationally recognized pro-life champion, will be speaking at the annual Rally for Life this Saturday, January 17. Jim Sedlak is the vice president of American Life League and director of STOPP (an arm of ALL that focuses on Planned Parenthood.) American Life League is a pro-life educational organization dedicated to the total protection of all innocent human beings from fertilization to natural death. The Rally for Life will be held Saturday, January 17, at Three Holy Women Parish, St. Rita’s Church, 1601 N. Cass St., and will include Mass at 9:30 a.m., followed by a procession and prayerful public witness at Affiliated abortion clinic in downtown Milwaukee. The Rally for Life will conclude with a luncheon featuring Jim Sedlak as the keynote speaker. Jim Sedlak’s appearance is especially timely, given the plans of the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics (UWHC) and Meriter Hospital to provide a full range of second-trimester abortions at the Madison Surgery Center, located at 1 South Park Street. The event is sponsored by Pro-Life Wisconsin and Citizens for a Pro-Life Society. Contact: Virginia Zignego, Communications Director, (262) 796-1111, Cell (262) 370-3993 9:30 a.m.

January 18
   Other
· Birthday -- Rep. Chris Danou
· City of Milwaukee and the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts Presents 25th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration
Bradley Pavilion, br> Uihlein Hall, Milwaukee. http://www.marcuscenter.org/events/view.php?event=2550 12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.

January 19
   Other
· 29th annual State of Wisconsin Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Capitol Rotunda. Featuring guest speaker Keith Beauchamp, filmmaker of the documentary "The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till." For more information, contact Jonathan Overby at 608-825-2000 or visit http://www.africasong.org 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
· Carthage College Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebration
A.F. Siebert Chapel, Carthage College, Kenosha. http://www.carthage.edu/external/news/720/ 4 p.m.
· Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
· Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Justice Rally and March, Milwaukee
St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1927 N. 4th St., Milwaukee. 1 p.m. indoor rally and the a 2 p.m. march to the Dr. King statue at MLK Drive, 1/2 block north of Walnut (about a 4 - 5 block walk) Contact: bob@peaceactionwi.orgor 414-964-5158. 1 p.m.
· Gateway Technical College Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebration
Gateway Technical College, Madrigrano Auditorium, 3320 30th Ave., Kenosha. http://www.gtc.edu/_publications/Public/mlk/2009_poster.pdf 12 p.m.
· La Crosse Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebration
English Lutheran Church, 1509 King St., La Crosse. The featured speaker will be Reverend Everett Mitchell, of the Madison-area Urban Ministry with music by the Tommy Wesley Gospel Choir. Sponsored by La Crosse County, Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center and Franciscan Skemp Healthcare. Contact: lori@emum.org 7 p.m.
· Lawrence University Martin Luther King Jr., Day Celebration
Lawrence University Memorial Chapel, Appleton. Featuring diversity educator Bola Delano-Oriaran. For more information: http://blogs.lawrence.edu/news/2009/01/awardwinning_diversity_educato.html 6:30 p.m.
· Lt. Gov. Lawton participates in Fox Cities 19th Annual Legislative Business Connection
Liberty Hall, 800 Eisenhower Drive, Kimberly. Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton will join fellow elected officials and community business leaders at the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s 19th Annual Legislative Business Connection at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 19th, 2009, in Kimberly. Contact: Ben Nuckels, Office of the Lt. Governor, 608-266-3516 5 p.m.
· Martin Luther King Jr. Madison, Dane County Observance: The Inspiration of Dreams, The Responsibilities of Change
Overture Center Capitol Theatre, 201 State St., Madison. http://www.today.wisc.edu/events/view/13846 6 p.m.
· Milwaukee Co. Exec. Walker invites public to King Day celebration
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, 1531 W. Vliet St.,Milwaukee. County Executive Scott Walker invites the public to attend this year’s King Day Celebration at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, 1531 W. Vliet Street on Monday, January 19 at 6:00 pm. Walker will be the keynote speaker for the event. This year’s King Day Celebration will feature a Milwaukee Bopper’s Dance performance, a routine by Lamont’s Tappin’ out Rhythm, a dramatization/teen reading by King Center youth, a Karate-Do demonstration and a boxing exhibition. In 1964, Martin Luther King, Jr. became the youngest man in history to receive The Nobel Peace Prize. He was one of the first people in the Western world to lead a struggle for civil rights and equality without violence. In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, designating the King Holiday as a national day of volunteer service. For more information go to countyparks.com or call (414) 257-PARK. For more information, please contact: Fran McLaughlin (414) 278-4244, (414) 235-6592 6 p.m.
· MLK National Day of Service events
For Immediate Release Renew America Together - Wisconsin responds to the call ! **Over 300 local service projects planned for National Day of Service... For more information contact: Dan Grandone (314) 853-5951 grandone8@gmail.com "Whatever one's political leanings, each presidential inauguration is an opportunity for Americans to renew the energy required to deal with the challenges we face -- never more so than when the challenges we face are without precedent. That's why, at this moment of great purpose, Mr. Obama has chosen the eve of his inauguration to launch "Renew America Together,"his call for all Americans to make an ongoing commitment to better the lives of others in their communities and their country. It's fitting that he will do this on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a day when we honor the legacy of a man who lived his life in service to others and believed that "everybody can be great, because anybody can serve." - General Colin Powell Featured Local Projects Madison area: This project will focus on flood relief efforts in Sauk County. Volunteers will repair a home in Rock Springs where the owner has moved out temporarily after reaching out to her community for recovery assistance. The entire first floor of the victim's home was under six to eight inches of water shortly after the flooding. The team of volunteers will paint, plaster, clean and make carpentry repairs on the home. This along with the work done in the other homes in Sauk County will be long-term commitments from the teams helping with the recovery process. When: Sunday, January 18th 1:00pm - 5:00pm Where: 3749 Schneider Rd. (Rock Springs) Contact: Donna R. Miller (608) 574-6644 Eau Claire area: The student councils at Thorp Middle and High School are organizing a fundraiser for Andy Thain, a former student. Andy is disabled with cerebral palsy and has recently acquired a service dog named Louie to assist him in his day-to-day life…picking up objects, retrieving the phone, opening doors, etc. While Louie is an amazing animal, he is also very expensive $8,500. The Thorp Student Council is selling T-Shirts to offset the cost and provide Andy a second chance on life. When: Kickoff on Monday...will last through last week in January Where: Thorp Middle School & High School (Thorp, WI) Contact: Judy Smriga (715) 829-8250 Milwaukee area: This will be a service project being hosted through Growing Power at the last remaining farm in the City of Milwaukee. A team of twenty people will get their hands dirty helping-out, moving manure, unloading compostable produce items, helping to grow food, discovering the benefits of sustainable urban ecology, and help to provide equal access to affordable food. When: Monday, January 19 from 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Where: 5500 W. Silver Spring Drive (Milwaukee) Contact: Volunteer Lead, Greg Bach (262) 391-3206 or Farm, Sarah Christman (414) 793-7067 All the WI service projects are listed at www.usaservice.org along with over 6,000 other service events in across the country. Anyone can create a service event at the website or sign up to participate in an event already taking place.
· Rep. Mason introduces bill to restore civil rights
Assembly Parlor, State Capitol. Representative Mason will be joined by a broad coalition of organizations as he introduces the Civil Rights Restoration Act this Monday on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The organizational partners include AARP Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired, the State Bar of Wisconsin, AFT Wisconsin, AFSCME Council 24, and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). Federal civil rights laws such as the Family Medical Leave Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Age Discrimination Employment Act do not apply to state or UW employees unless state law specifies that they do due to a series of U.S. Supreme Court decisions. Wisconsin law currently does not enumerate that these rights be extended to UW or State employees, which leaves more than sixty thousand Wisconsin citizens without the rights and protections that others enjoy. The Civil Rights Restoration bill will restore these fundamental civil rights to all Wisconsin citizens. With: Rep. Cory Mason (D-Racine) AARP Wisconsin Wisconsin Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired State Bar of Wisconsin-Individual Rights and Responsibilities Section AFT Wisconsin AFSCME Council 24 American Civil Liberties Union Contact: Rep. Cory Mason 608-266-0634 11:30 a.m.
· State Treasurer Sass launches third annual Unclaimed Property Outreach Tour
Contact: Eva Robelia, Office of the State Treasurer, 608-261-2159 Treasurer Dawn Marie Sass to visit all 72 counties over the course of the year State Treasurer Dawn Marie Sass will begin her third annual statewide Unclaimed Property Outreach tour on Monday, January 19 at 2:00 p.m. at the Chippewa Falls Public Library and 4:30 p.m. at the Black River Falls Public Library. Over the course of the year, Treasurer Sass will bring the Unclaimed Property database to all 72 counties to help raise awareness of the program and reunite people with their lost cash and valuables. Since the outreach tour began, record amounts of unclaimed property have been returned to the rightful owners. To find out if you have unclaimed property, go to www.statetreasury.wisconsin.gov. 12:00-1:00 p.m. Dunn County Retired Educators Association Luncheon to discuss EdVest Moose Lodge, 720 19th Ave. E., Menominee. 2:00-3:00 p.m. Chippewa Falls Public Library with the Unclaimed Property database 105 W. Central St., Chippewa Falls. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Black River Falls Public Library with the Unclaimed Property database 222 Fillmore St., Black River Falls. 12 p.m.
· Stevens Point Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration
Stevens Point Area Senior High School, 1201 Northpoint Drive, Stevens Point. The program will feature Dr. Jeremi Suri as keynote speaker. In 2007, Dr. Suri was named by the Smithsonian Magazine as one of America’s “Top Young Innovators” in the humanities and sciences. Dr. Suri will address the significance of the civil rights movement and examine the historical meaning of the civil rights movement within the context of current events. Also included in the program is music from the SPASH choir, hip hop group “Rhymz Suhreal” and special music commissioned for the event from composer Will Louis-Brux. 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
· Tribute and Ceremony honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Rotunda, State Capitol.
· UW-Oshkosh Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration
Reeve Memorial Union Ballroom, 748 Algoma Blvd., Oshkosh. See detail: http://www.uwosh.edu/news/?p=1613 5 p.m.
· Waukesha Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration
· Wisconsin congressional delegations hosts Open House for Wisconsinites
Room 2359, Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. We invite all who are in Washington, DC for the inauguration to join us. 2 p.m.

January 20
   State Government
· PSC telephone hearing on Arlington Water Utility application to increase water rates
Amnicon Falls Rm., 610 N.Whitney Way, Madison. Arlington Village Hall, 200 Commercial St., Arlington. (Docket 240-WR-103) Application of Arlington Water Utility, Columbia County, Wisconsin, for Authority to Increase Water Rates 10 a.m.
· PSC telephone hearing on Village of Cashton application to change electric rates
Amnicon Falls Rm., 610 N.Whitney Way, Madison. Village Hall, 811 Main St., Cashton. (Docket 970-ER-103) Application of the Village of Cashton, Monroe County, as an Electric Public Utility, for Authority to Change Electric Rates 1:30 p.m.
   Business Events
· WIN Madison: Improving state's investment tax credit law
Sheraton Hotel, 706 John Nolen Drive, Madison. Improving state's investment tax credit law is topic of Jan. 20 WIN-Madison “Wisconsin’s investment tax credits: What’s working and what happens next?” will feature: John Neis, managing director of Venture Investors LLC; Cheryl Gain, director of biotechnology initiatives at Thrive; Bill McCoshen, executive director of Competitive Wisconsin Inc.; and Deven McGlenn, CEO of NeoClone, who credits the tax credits law for helping his company raise funding. Tech Council President Tom Still will moderate. http://www.wisconsintechnologycouncil.com/events/win/?ID=647 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
   Other
· Brown County inauguration celebration Riverside Ballroom, 1560 Main St., Green Bay.
· Historic King Drive Business Improvement District celebration
Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, 325 W. Walnut St., Milwaukee. Making History on Milwaukee’s King Drive: 2009 Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday coincides with the Historic Inauguration of President-Elect Barack Obama MILWAUKEE, WIS. -- The Historic King Drive Business Improvement District (BID) will host a celebration on Tuesday, January 20 for the late Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday that includes a broadcast of the historic inauguration of America’s first black president, Barack Obama, commemoration of the 4th anniversary of the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center and announcement of results from recent community input sessions for improving business and residential life. The event will he held at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, 325 W. Walnut St., from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A live feed of President Barack Obama taking the Oath of Office, followed by his speech, will be broadcast at 11 a.m. CST. The Historic King Drive BID, located at 2212 N. MLK Dr., is responsible for the economic development, improvement and promotion of the two-mile stretch on Milwaukee’s north side that is named after the famed civil rights leader. Since the BID’s inception in 1992, over $200 million in new developments have taken place in the district. Marjorie Rucker, Main Street Manager for the BID, said the forums held October 27 through November 5, 2008 included input from over 100 business and property owners and community residents regarding the BID’s ambitious new plans for streetscape, parking and a public safety initiative. The forums allowed the community to influence plans before they’re implemented, since changes in the district will have a dramatic impact on area businesses and quality of life for residents, she said. The 2009 MLK BID celebration also will highlight themes of hope, change and progress with 50 “Making History on King Drive” banners installed along King Drive along with people wearing the 3rd annual “Living the Dream” T-shirts. “Themes from the Obama campaign reinforced Dr. King’s historic ‘I Have a Dream’ speech in Washington, and remind us of the positive change he envisioned. Now we’re seeing such change in our lifetime, which is significant when you consider the relatively short time span of 50 years,” said Rucker. The Jan. 20 celebration is free to the general public. If you would like to attend you need to RSVP by January 19, 2009. “Living the Dream” T-shirt that embodies the mission of the MLK BID will be available for sale on the day of the event. For more information or to register, contact Marjorie Rucker at (414) 265-5809 or via email at Marjorie@kingdrivebid.com. 10:30 a.m.
· La Crosse County Democrats Inauguration Celebration
Radisson Hotel Ballroom, 200 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. Cocktail hour will begin at 6:00 P.M. and a buffet dinner will be served at 7:00 P.M. Cost is $20.00 and reservations are required as an exact number is needed. To RSVP please send your name, the number attending, and your check to P.O. Box 1861, La Crosse, WI 54602. If you have any questions, please contact Vicki Burke at vburke0737@aol.com, or Pablo Ruiz at pablomruiz3@yahoo.com. 6 p.m.
· Madison inaugural celebration
High Noon Saloon, Madison. Party like it's (finally!) 1-20-09! Host: Vicky Selkowe Phone: 608-772-6046 Email: vsselkowe@gmail.com Don't have a ticket to the Inauguration festivities in Washington, DC? No problem! Get your dancing shoes on (ball gown & tuxedo optional but welcome!) because the Inaugural Celebration is coming to Madison! Join others to celebrate the start of a new era and the change we've all been waiting for on Tuesday, January 20th, starting at 5:30pm at the High Noon Saloon in Madison. Live music (including the Bonobo Secret Handshake), food and fun. $20 suggested donation to benefit the Tenants Rights Center & the Workers' Rights Center. This Inaugural Night event will celebrate our democratic process and help us come together locally to continue to do the work that needs to be done right here in Madison. The event is a fundraiser for the Tenant Resource Center and the Workers Rights Center - two Madison nonprofits that are bringing about the change we all worked so hard to achieve nationally, right here in our own backyard. See you on January 20th! Bring your friends and your dancing shoes! Sponsors include: Mayor Dave Cieslewicz, The Progressive Magazine Association of Workers, Stuart Levitan, Madtown O's (Obama for American WI Team 2D-Yellow), Megan McGrorty, Jim Cavanuagh, Saul Castillo, Peter & Kelly Rickman, Carol Carstensen, Mike Quieto, Mary Lang Sollinger, The Jade Monkey, Jill Jacklitz & Barbara Chusid, Carrie Vanderford, IndiRo Pictures, Julia Kerr, Darcy Haber & David Faucett, Wendy Cooper, Marsha Mansfield & Steve Schooler, Laurie Frank & Bert Zipperer, Ramona Natera, Sue Vilbrandt, Darcy Luoma & John Gilbert, Gary Poulson, MaryAdele Revoy, Jonathan Rosenblum and more! 5:30 p.m.
· Manitowoc County inauguration celebration
Club Bil-Mar, 3627 County Highway CR, Manitowoc. 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. A casual celebration will follow a brief membership meeting, and will feature heavy hors d'ouvres, cash bar, unique merchandise, and other fun. Enjoy this important and hard earned moment in history! $10 members and nonmembers in advance $15 walk-ins at the door Students free with valid ID. Advance reservations are strongly encouraged and will be greatly appreciated. RSVP to Nan Hallock 652-0016. 6 p.m.
· Milwaukee County inaugural celebration
Serb Hall, 5101 W. Oklahoma, Milwaukee.
· Milwaukee inauguration watch party
· Portage Co. Democratic Party local inaugural ball
Kristin’s Riverwalk, 1140 Clark St., Stevens Point. Disappointed you won’t be able to join the millions of people attending the Inauguration of President Barack Obama in Washington, DC on January 20th? We have a solution. All area residents are invited to attend the Inaugural Ball in Stevens Point sponsored by the Portage County Democratic Party. The formal ball will be held locally on January 20, 2009 in Stevens Point at Kristin’s Riverwalk, 1140 Clark St., from 6:00 to 11:00 pm. Any area resident interested in celebrating the inauguration is invited to attend. To RSVP, contact Gary Hawley (phone 715-345-9586; or email gary.hawley@softhome.net) by January 16th. The RSVP will guarantee a ticket and a cover charge of $15 per person/$25 per couple. After January 16th, and at the door, the tickets are $20 per person/$30 per couple. Music for dancing will be provided by the Swanee River Jazz Band from 7:00-9:00 pm and by the “Inaugural Ball Band” from UWSP from 9:15 to 11:00 pm. TVs will be available throughout the restaurant for viewing taped selections of the Inauguration (held earlier in the day), and for viewing live activities in Washington, DC. Free beer and soda will be available from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. A cash bar and complimentary hors d’oeurves will be available throughout the evening. At 9:00 pm there will be a free champagne toast offered by a local celebrity. Charlene Figge 715-345-1371 715-341-8457 cfigge@charter.net 6 p.m.
· Records Officer Council
Dept. of Administration, Yahara Conference Room, 101 E. Wilson St., Madison. Agenda 1. Last month in Records · AIIM/ARMA 5 minutes · General Records Schedules 5 minutes · PRB Committees 15 minutes · Other 10 minutes 2. Draft RDA Elements and Instructions 40 minutes 3. Roundtable 20 minutes 3. New Issues 20 minutes Next Steps 5 minutes 10 a.m.
· State Superintendent Burmaster, DCF Secretary Bicha tour 4K programs Edgerton School District Office, 200 Elm High Drive, Edgerton.
· WASB 88th State Education Convention
Hyatt Regency Hotel, Milwaukee.
· Waukesha County inauguration event
Palladium, Marcus Cinema, 770 Springdale Road, Brookfield. To celebrate with fellow progressives, the Waukesha County Democratic Party has reserved the Palladium Dinner Theater for the Inauguration of Barack Obama. The inauguration will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2009. The program will run from the start of the Inauguration Ceremony to the end of the Inaugural Parade. The timeframe will be from 10am to approximately 3pm. The Palladium is located in the Marcus Cinema – Brookfield, 770 Springdale Road in Brookfield. People who wish to participate should call 262-544-5550 or 262-679-3258 or the can send an email inquiry to boij202008@yahoo.com . Tickets for the event are $6. All in attendance are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to benefit the Food Pantry of Waukesha County. More information is available at www.waukeshadems.org. Contact: Jeff Christensen at (262)352-0027 or j2christ@hotmail.com . 10 a.m.
· Winnebago County inaugural celebration
Neenah Labor Temple, 157 S. Green Bay Road, Neenah.
· Wisconsin Credit Union League State GAC Conference
Monona Terrace, 1 John Nolen Drive, Madison.

January 21
   State Government
· Assembly Committee on Forestry informational hearing
300 Northeast, State Capitol.
   Business Events
· Economic Trends Breakfast
Italian Conference Center, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee. Featuring Michael Knetter, dean of UW Madison School of Business; Jerry Shereshewsky chief executive officer of Grandparents.com; Richard Meeusen, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Badger Meter, Inc.; and Jane Cooper founder, president and chief executive officer of Patient Care. For details visit http://www.biztimes.com/cal/sbt-events/2009/1/21/economic-trends 7:30 a.m.
   Other
· Birthday -- Rep. Bill Kramer
· Dept. of Commerce public hearing
Dept. of Commerce, Conference Room 3B, 201 W. Washington Ave., Madison. Hearing on proposed rules requiring registration for various building contractors involved in the construction or modification of public buildings and places of employment and 1-and-2 family dwellings. 10 a.m.
· DNC elects new chair
Washington, D.C.
· DOA public hearing on Chapter Adm 70, CR 08-084
Eau Claire County Courthouse, 721 Oxford Avenue, Room 2550/2560, Eau Claire. Notice is hereby given that pursuant to ss. 16.004(1), 227.11(2)(a), and 706.25(4), Stats., the Department of Administration will hold public hearings on the proposed rule order to create Chapter Adm 70 relating to technical standards for electronic recording of documents in the County Register of Deeds Offices in Wisconsin. Submission of Written Comments Interested persons are invited to present information at the hearings. Persons appearing may make an oral presentation but are also urged to submit facts, opinions and arguments in writing as well. Facts, opinions and arguments may also be submitted in writing without a personal appearance by mail addressed to: Donna Sorenson, Department of Administration, P.O. Box 7864, Madison, WI 53707-7864 or by email to Donna.Sorenson@Wisconsin.gov. Written comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on January 23, 2009, to be included in the record of rule-making proceedings. Analysis prepared by the Department of Administration Statutes Interpreted Section 706.25, Wis. Stats. Statutory Authority Sections 16.004(1) and 706.25(4), Wis. Stats. Related Statute or Rule Chapter 137, Stats. Chapter Adm 13, Wis. Adm. Code Plain language analysis Pursuant to s. 706.25(4), Wis. Stats., the Department of Administration is required to promulgate by rule the standards adopted, amended or repealed by the Council under Uniform Real Property Electronic Recording Act. The proposed rule is created to provide technical standards for electronic recording of documents in the offices of the Register of Deeds in Wisconsin. The rule does not require any entity to record electronically. Comparison with federal regulations There are no federal regulations proposed for electronic document recording in the local offices of the register of deeds at this time. Comparison of Similar Rules in Adjacent State Though they have not adopted formal administrative rules to date, Iowa and Minnesota have adopted the URPERA and established business rules which require advance submitter agreements. Model 2 and 3 technology, PRIA standards and trusted submitter agreements are used in both Iowa and Minnesota for electronic recording of documents. The Minnesota Legislature adopted URPERA in the spring of 2008. The Commission established under the Minnesota URPERA law will assume responsibility from the sun-setting earlier established Electronic Recording Task Force and then may well develop administrative rules for electronic recording. As of this time, no implementing rules are in place. The Iowa Legislature passed legislation establishing an Electronic Transaction Fee in order to establish a statewide system for accepting documents electronically. The system, called the County Land Record Information System (see www.iowalandrecords.org), is owned by the Iowa County Recorders and supported by a private project manager. Michigan and Illinois have not progressed as far as Iowa or Minnesota. Comparison with federal regulations There are no federal regulations proposed for electronic document recording in the local offices of the register of deeds at this time. Summary of factual data Surveys were conducted of most the register of deeds offices in the Midwest and phone interviews were conducted of other register/recorder/clerk’s offices who are actively recording documents electronically. Laws and rules regarding electronic recording from other states were reviewed. Various experts attended council meetings and gave presentations that greatly enhanced understanding of issues and technology: · Mark Ladd, Technology Coordinator for the Property Records Industry Association (PRIA), shared updates on guidelines of this standard-setting organization; · Tim Reiniger of the National Notary Association explained his group’s desire for increased education for notaries and implementation of electronic notarization; · Susan Churchill of the Wisconsin Secretary of State’s Office explained plans to create a database of Wisconsin notaries; · Phil Dunshee, gave presentations on the Iowa Recorders Association’s statewide portal for accessing information and recording electronic documents; · Marc Aronson from the US Notaries organization spoke on the National Uniform Committee’s work on uniform notary law and his perspective on a range of acceptable methods for notaries; · Lisa Nelson and Luann Kohlmann of Associated Bank in Middleton explained electronic funds transactions that can be used to make payments for electronic recordings; · Bush Nielsen, counsel for the Wisconsin Land Title Association gave an interesting presentation on the importance of the prompt and proper order of recording documents; · Mark Saunders, deputy legal counsel and Donna Sorenson, paralegal for the Wisconsin Department of Administration, reviewed the administrative rule form, wording, process and timeline; and · Council administrative support provided by Amy K. Moran of the Department of Administration and Jim Pahl-Washa of the Department of Revenue. Small Business ImpactThe proposed rule will provide a clear path for recording documents electronically in Wisconsin allowing for speedier processing of conveyances. The proposed rule will have no significant economic impact on a substantial number of small businesses as defined in s. 227.114(1), Wis. Stats. Fiscal Estimate State Fiscal Effect This rule will provide technical standards for electronic recording of documents in the local Register of Deeds Offices in Wisconsin. It requires the Wisconsin Electronic Recording Council to identify and approve “trusted submitters,” which are private entities that would be approved to record documents electronically in Wisconsin. The rule does not require any entity to record electronically. Recording fees are unchanged by the rule. Wisconsin does not have a state-level Register of Deeds and the State would not be impacted by costs to implement electronic recording. The rule does not impact the current level of administrative support provided to the Wisconsin Electronic Recording Council by state resources or staff. As a consumer, the State records documents with local Registers and pays recording and some copying fees. If the State elects to use electronic recording in counties which allow it, there may be some increased cost from software purchases or from trusted submitter fees. Since it is currently not known how many counties will elect to implement electronic recording, the cost to the State is indeterminate. Local Fiscal Effect The rule does not require local Registers to allow electronic recording of documents. However, if the local Register of Deeds Office chooses to allow electronic recording, it would need to purchase specific software that would enable it to receive documents for recording, indexing and returning a copy of the documents once recording is completed. There are approximately 17 large to mid-sized counties that are currently accepting certain documents for electronic recording. There are several vendors of electronic recording software, but costs for the systems vary and the cost appears to depend on the level of use. Local Registers may also experience reduced costs as a result of electronic recording; including saving on scanning, copying and mailing costs, as well as more efficient identification and correction of errors in documents. The fiscal impact on local units of government that choose to allow electronic recording is indeterminate. In addition, the proposed rule would not require local government entities to incur any costs since participation is voluntary. Agency Contact Person: Donna Sorenson Department of Administration 101 E. Wilson Street P.O. Box 7864 Madison, WI 53707-7864 (608) 266-2887 Donna.Sorenson@Wisconsin.gov Copies of proposed rules The proposed rule may be viewed and downloaded and comments electronically submitted at the following Internet site: http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov. If you do not have Internet access, a copy of the proposed rule may be obtained from Donna Sorenson, Department of Administration, P.O. Box 7864, Madison, Wisconsin 53707 or by calling (608) 266-2887. 11 a.m.
· OCI Senior Designations Working Group
125 S. Webster St., Room 227, Madison. 1:30 p.m.
· On the Issues with Mike Gousha: Milwaukee Police Chief Edward Flynn
Marquette University Law School, Eisenberg Memorial Hall, 3rd floor, Milwaukee. When he arrived in Milwaukee last January, one of Chief Flynn’s first public appearances was at Marquette Law School, where he laid out his strategy for reducing crime. Today, violent crime is down dramatically in the city. What worked and why? And do residents feel their community is safer? Find out when the chief returns to the Law School for a candid assessment of his first year on the job. 12 p.m.
· PSC complaint pre-hearing conference
Amnicon Falls Room, 610 N. Whitney Way, Madison. (Docket 9300-SI-105) Complaint of Country Estates Sanitary District Against the Town of Lyons Sanitary District No. 2, Walworth County, Concerning Unreasonable and Unjustly Discriminatory Sewer Rates 9 a.m.
· WASB 88th State Education Convention
Hyatt Regency Hotel, Milwaukee.
· Wisconsin Better Business Bureau workshop
1047 N. Lynndale Drive, Suite 1A, Appleton. The Wisconsin BBB will be holding a series of free workshops to help companies apply for the 2009 Torch Award for Business Ethics & Integrity. At these workshops, companies will learn how to apply, discover what the judges are looking for, see past winning applications and ask any questions about the process. Pre-registration is recommended, but not required. RSVP to JoEllen or Ginny at 920-734-4352 8 a.m.
· Wisconsin Credit Union League Government Affairs Conference
Hilton at Monona Terrace, 9 East Wilson St., Madison,Madison. For information visit http://www.theleague.coop/AM/Template.cfm?Section=League_events&CONTENTID=27122&TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm 8:30 a.m.

January 22
   Fundraisers
· 2009 RACC Reception
Concourse Hotel, 1 W. Dayton St., Madison. 5:00-8:00 pm Reception, $250 per person 6:00 pm Program Sponsorship Levels: Gold Sponsor-$6000 Admission for 10 to reception Group & Hole Sponsorship at 2009 RACC Golf Outing Silver Sponsor-$3000 Admission for 5 to the reception Bronze Sponsor-$1000 Admission for 2 to the reception PAC accepted Please RSVP by January 20th to Melanie Hubbard at 608-279-1275 or mhubbard@wisgop.org 5 p.m.
   State Government
· Assembly Committee on Jobs, the Economy and Small Business executive session
328 Northwest, State Capitol.
· Assembly Committee on Jobs, the Economy and Small Business public hearing
328 Northwest, State Capitol.
· Special committee on Building Wisconsin's Workforce
Legislative Council Conference Room, 1 E. Main St., Suite 401, Madison.
· Supreme Court Open Administrative Conference
Supreme Court Hearing Room, State Capitol. Rules Petition 02-03: In the matter of the adoption of procedures for original action cases involving state legislative redistricting. 10 a.m.
   Business Events
· Best of Madison Business Awards
Monona Terrace, 1 John Nolen Drive, Madison. Honoring George Nelson of Morgan Murphy Media, Tim Metcalfe of Metcalfe's Dentry, Bob Mohelnitzky of Second Harvest Foodbank of South Central Wisconsin, and Judith Faulkner of Epic Systems. Contact: 608-270-3631 or nhusain@madisonmagazine.com 11:30 a.m.
· DMI "What's Up Downtown" breakfast
The Madison Club, 5 E. Wilson St.,Madison. Sponsored by: Foley & Lardner, The Madison Club, SVA Companies and Johnson Bank Complimentary assorted juices, coffee, rolls and fruit available. Speaker: Charles Hoslet, Managing Director, UW-Madison Office of Corporate Relations Topic: Economic Self-Help: Building an Entrepreneurial Culture in Madison Monthly Sponsor: Summit Credit Union DMI also recognizes and thanks our Honor Roll Members: * American Family Insurance * Anchor Bank * Associated Bank of Madison * Brownhouse * Clifton Gunderson LLP * CUNA Mutual Group * Dean Health Systems * First Weber Group * Foley & Lardner * J.H. Findorff & Son, Inc. * Johnson Bank * J P Morgan Chase * M&I Bank * Madison Gas & Electric * Meriter Health Services Inc. * Michael Best & Friedrich LLP * Park Bank * Steve Brown Apartments * Strang, Inc. * Suby Von Haden & Associates, S.C. * University Book Store * US Bank * UW Health 7:45 a.m.
· WEN annual meeting
Jefferson Street Inn, Wausau. “Join us at the Jefferson Street Inn in Wausau on January 22, 2009 as we celebrate our 2008 success and look forward to the challenges and opportunities in the coming year,” says Wisconsin Entrepreneur Network (WEN) Executive Director Kim Kindschi. “Entrepreneurs drive America’s economy, accounting for the majority of our nation’s new job creation and innovation. Let’s get together and join forces as we work in 2009 to help our Wisconsin entrepreneurs grow and prosper.” 8:30 am REGISTRATION AND CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST 9:15 am KICK-OFF REMARKS: Kim Kindschi, Executive Director, UW-Extension Division of Entrepreneurship and Economic Development 9:30 am OPENING SESSION: “The Entrepreneurial Mind: The Changing Face of Entrepreneurship” Dennis Winters, Chief Economist, Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. What are the challenges and opportunities that entrepreneurs and economic development professionals face in the current economy? How does this impact our communities at the regional and local level? Dennis Winters is prepared to provide information and research to answer these important questions 10:30 am PANEL DISCUSSION: Regional Economic Development Initiatives Panel 11:30 am BREAKOUT SESSIONS: Choose from one of three panels, moderated by: “Entrepreneurship and the Arts”, Anne Katz, Executive Director, Arts Wisconsin This session, featuring several Wisconsin arts entrepreneurs, will highlight some of the successful and exciting arts businesses in the state, and the resources and support available to those looking to start and sustain an arts-related venture. “Incubators: Building on Best Practices”, Therese Fellner, Director of Business Development, Gateway Technical College This session, through firsthand experience of incubator managers, will showcase best practices and explore trends in programming, services and facilities. “Building the Best Management Team”, Dennis Winters, Chief Economist, WI Dept. of Workforce Development It is the entrepreneur's job to find the right people and build the team. However, experienced talent can be hard to find. Panelists will share their strategies on overcoming these challenges. 12:30 pm LUNCHEON SPEAKER: Secretary Leinenkugel, WI Dept. of Commerce 1:30 pm ENTREPRENEUR CASE STUDIES 2:30 pm CLOSING REMARKS 8:30 a.m.
   Other
· AG Van Hollen discusses school safety initiative
Room 102D, Midwest Airlines Convention Center, Milwaukee. Safe Schools Safe Communities Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen will share his views with Wisconsin’s school board members, school district administrators and school business officials as part of a discussion session entitled Safe Schools Safe Communities. Following AG Van Hollen will be a discussion panel lead by Special Assistant Attorney General Kevin St. John, Division of Law Enforcement Services Administrator Gary Hamblin and Assistant Attorney General Tom Fallon. Contact: Bill Cosh (608) 266-1221 9:30 a.m.
· DNR hearing on Rosendale Dairy facility
Royal Ridges, Ripon.
· Fourth Street Forum: Obama's vision and Wisconsin's hope
Turner Hall, 1034 N. 4th St., Milwaukee. America’s new president has big challenges and optimistic plans. What will his goals mean for Wisconsin? MPTV Broadcast Dates: January 23 and 29 Moderator: RAUL VASQUEZ, Editor, ¡Aquí Milwaukee Magazine! WITH GUESTS JAMES BURKEE, PhD Associate Professor of History Concordia University Wisconsin www.cuw.edu Co-founder, Americans for Responsibility in Washington JAMES CAUSEY Editorial Writer Milwaukee Journal Sentinel www.jsonline.com President, Wisconsin Black Media Association RUTH CONNIFF Political Editor The Progressive www.progressive.org MARK GOTTLIEB State Representative, Republican, 60th Assembly District Assistant Minority Leader www.legis.state.wi.us For more information: http://www.milwaukeeturners.org/fourth-street-forum/ 12 p.m.
· Fundraiser for Ehlke for Dane County Circuit Court Judge
Brink Lounge, 701 E. Washington Ave., Madison. Stephen Ehlke campaign for Dane County Circuit Court kicks-off Thursday, January 22nd with a fundraiser event at the Brink’s lounge located at 701 East Washington Avenue. The event, open to the public, will be from 5:00 to 7:30 pm. Contact: Justin Sargent, Ehlke Campaign (608) 220-2342 5 p.m.
· Milwaukee Press Club Newsmaker Luncheon
Newsroom Pub, 137 E. Wells St., Milwaukee.
· PSC telephone hearing
Village Hall, Board Room, 455 Davis St., Hammond. 610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Room, Madison. and (Docket 2430-WR-102) Application of Hammond Municipal Water Utility, Saint Croix County, Wisconsin, to Revise Public Fire Protection Charge Recovery Method 9 a.m.
· PSC telephone hearing
Village Hall, Board Room, 7200 N Santa Monica Blvd., Fox Point. 610 N.Whitney Way, Amnicon Falls Room, Madison. (Docket 2090-WR-110) Application of Village of Fox Point Water Utility, Milwaukee County Wisconsin, to Revise Public Fire Protection Charge Recovery method. 10 a.m.
· Public Service Commission
Flambeau River Conference Room, 610 N. Whitney Way, Madison. 10:30 a.m.
· UW-Madison Chancellor's Forum
Plenary Room (room 1310), Grainger Hall, 975 University Ave., Madison. The opportunities and challenges facing higher education in today's slumping economy will be the focus of this session. Chancellor Carolyn "Biddy" Martin is inviting all students, faculty and staff to share ideas about the role of higher education in a recessionary economy and beyond. Staff members can attend without loss of pay, after receiving approval from a supervisor. 4:30 p.m.
· WASB 88th State Education Convention
Hyatt Regency Hotel, Milwaukee.
· Wisconsin Task Force on Children in Need
Risser Justice Center, Moot Courtroom, 17 W. Main St., Madison. 9 a.m.

January 23
   Fundraisers
· Waukesha Co. GOP East Central/South East Branch Club annual meeting
Venice Club, 1905 N. Calhoun Road, Brookfield. Social: 6:00 p.m. hors d'oeuvres Program & Meeting to follow Cost $15.00 - cash bar Invited Guests: County Executive Dan Vrakas State Senators Ted Kanavas & Mary Lazich Representatives Scott Gunderson, Mark Gundrum, Leah Vukmir & Rich Zipperer Call Chuck or Sharon Bloom, 262-786-9581, for Reservations by January 20th. 6 p.m.
   State Government
· Assembly Committee on Rules
Assembly Parlor, State Capitol. 11 a.m.
   Other
· Birthday -- Sen. Randy Hopper
· DWD Secretary Gassman keynotes Herzing College Graduation
Madison Marriott West, 1313 John Q Hammons Drive, Middleton. Discusses Economic, Workforce Development Challenges State Labor Secretary will highlight job opportunities in emerging sector MADISON – Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Roberta Gassman will address Herzing College graduates at 11:30 a.m. Friday, January 23, 2009, at the Madison Marriott West in Middleton. In her remarks, Secretary Gassman will discuss challenges Wisconsin faces in addressing the state budget shortfall and growing the state economy. A member of Governor Doyle’s Cabinet, she leads the Department of Workforce Development and oversees more than 1,600 employees charged with strengthening Wisconsin’s workforce. CONTACT: Dick Jones, Agency Liaison, 608-267-4780 11:30 a.m.
· GMCC Eggs & Issues with U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin
Madison Concourse Hotel & Governor's Club, 1 W. Dayton St., Madison.
· Gov. Doyle announces next steps to meet economic challenges
Governor’s Conference Room, State Capitol. Governor Jim Doyle will announce the next steps his Administration will take to help meet challenges resulting from the national economic crisis tomorrow, Friday, January 23, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. in Madison. Contact: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162 1 p.m.
· Governor's Advisory Council on Judicial Selection
210 Southeast, State Capitol. 10 a.m.
· WASB 88th State Education Convention
Hyatt Regency Hotel, Milwaukee.
· WPUI, WAGE and the Energy Institute present "Policy Making in Energy Interdependent Systems"
Direct from Paris... Wisconsin Public Utility Institute, World Affairs and the Global Economy (WAGE) and the Energy Institute invite you to an Institute Lunch WPUI invites you to a lecture sponsored by: Center for World Affairs and the Global Economy and the Energy Institute. While this event features a lecture focusing on International experience we believe that it holds lessons and ideas for Wisconsin as we move forward with investing in and achieving a more efficient community. An informal panel discussion will follow. Sincerely, Cara Lee Mahany Braithwait Director, Wisconsin Public Utility Institute 608-890-1815 Quick Links Register Now Biography Dr. Nigel Jollands' career spans 15 years in energy, resource management and economic analysis fields. In November 2006 he took up a post with the International Energy Agency. There he is the Principal Administrator in the Energy Efficiency and Environment Division. This role includes leading the IEA's energy efficiency policy analysis, coordinating the IEA's energy efficiency advice to the G8 under the Gleneagles Plan of Action, co-coordinating the Agency's Energy Efficiency Working Party and participating in In-depth Reviews of member country energy policies. Nigel is currently also leading the IEA's work on energy in cities and a project on energy efficiency and governance. "Policy Making in Energy Interdependent Systems" Best Practices and Lessons Learned from the International Energy Agency featuring Nigel Jollands Principal AdministratorEnergy Efficiency & Environment DivisionInternational Energy Agency Friday January 23, 2009 Registration Required--Blue Plate Box lunches available for sale at the door Background Developing systems of international governance is difficult at the best of times. For energy, the road to international cooperation is particularly tortuous, as countries are reluctant to relinquish sovereignty for issues deeply intertwined with national security and economic development. In 1973, however, a group of countries overcame their differences to establish the International Energy Agency. Likewise, significant developments have taken place in European energy policy since 2000, driven by increasing concern about global warming, rapidly increasing energy prices, and security of supply. Nigel Jollands, International Energy Agency, will discuss the IEA's current and future energy policy directions with a particular focus on energy efficiency. After 25 years, what has the IEA achieved, what are the current/future challenges for energy governance and how will IEA address these? This Institute Lunch will explore lessons learned and how these might be employed in Wisconsin as we move forward to implement major increases in energy efficiency.Dr. Jollands will cover: * How to achieve cooperation from sovereign governments to share control of their energy portfolio to an independent agency. * What are the benefits of IEA-- What value is there in having an independent agency organize an energy policy?* What could have been done differently?* Lessons for local communities, states and the federal government inachieving a coordinated energy policy? * How to convince developing countries to cooperate in setting and meeting goals (e.g., carbon reduction) that are in conflict with their primary objective of economic development? In discussing these questions, Dr. Jollands will draw on his experience working at the IEA, and in particular, with his work in coordinating international energy efficiency policy. A discussion will follow Dr. Jollands' presentation regarding implications for Wisconsin. The ECB.... Tong Auditorium can be found between Camp Randall and University Ave in the Engineering Centers Building (ECB) Park in Lot 17 Directions to the ECB As you leave Lot 17, turn north (left) and you will see the ECB at the far end of the drive. As you enter the doors, take a very slight jog to your right and go up the corridor. Tong Auditorium is on your right. Wisconsin Public Utility Institute | 905 Engineering Research Building | 1500 Engineering Drive | Madison | WI | 53706 2:30 p.m.

January 24
   Other
· Community Brainstorming Conference: Universities vs. Prisons: Will The Obama Administration Make A Difference?
Saint Matthews C.M.E. Church, 2944 North 9th St., Milwaukee. Prof. Winston Van Horn: Department of Africology, UW-Milwaukee Universities: The Addition of Human Value Prof. Dennis Rome Dept of Criminal Justice, UW-Parkside Prisons: The Subtraction of Human Value Prof. Patrick Bellegarde-Smith Department of Africology, UW-Milwaukee Universities & Prisons: Prospect Under The Obama Administration Moderator: Prof. Joyce F. Kirk Chair, Dept of Africology, UW-Milwaukee For more information visit http://www.communitybrainstorming.org/ 8 a.m.
· UWUC Holding Change Accountable Rally
Library Mall, UW-Madison. A coalition of UW-Madison progressive students are banding together on January 24, 2009 for a demonstration of student demands to “hold change accountable.” This peaceful rally will voice the concerns of the student population to push the Obama administration, our legislators, and our new chancellor in a direction that would effectively bring change directly to the lives of the people. This action is not one of hostility, nor is it one of blind optimism, but a manifestation of the sentiments of a neglected generation. We acknowledge that our new administration is one that has instilled hopeful promise into the lives of many; therefore, in this era of expectation, we call for immediate action and an increase in equality. The students of Madison recognize that education is no longer affordable for everyone, that education should not be an effort of military recruitment, that diversity standards are not being met within the higher education system, and that the job market is unsustainable and offers unfair and unjust positions. We welcome and encourage universities, organizations, and people who are tired of our current injustices, to mobilize in solidarity throughout the country. With: United Council of UW Students, Progressive Student Alliance, M.E.Ch.A (Chican@ Student Movement of Aztlan), Student Labor Action Coalition, Multi-Cultural Student Coalition, International Socialist Organization, Society & Politics, Black Student Union, First Wave, UW Students, UW Community Members 12-1 Library Mall Pre-Rally 1-1:30 March to Capitol 1:30-3p Rally at Capitol For more information, please contact Sofia Snow or Alida Cardos Whaley, of the UW Madison Progressive Student Alliance at ssnow@wisc.edu, or alidaisabelle@gmail.com. 12 p.m.

January 25
   Other
· Birthday -- Rep. Cory Mason

January 26
   Fundraisers
· Reception in support of Sen. Kathleen Vinehout
Madison's Downtown, 119 N. King St., Madison. Special guest: Senate Majority Leader Russ Decker Light hors d'oeuvres will be served. Suggested contribution: $100 Sponsorships: $1000 host, $500 sponsor, $250 supporter All Contributions Gratefully Accepted Sorry no PAC. To RSVP contact Kory at 608-260-2403 or email Koryk@wisdems.org Make checks payable to Voters for Vinehout, P.O. Box 1274, Eau Claire, WI 54702. Sponsored by SSDC. Paid for by State Senate Democratic Committee, Jeff Plale, Treasure as an in-kind contribution to Voters for Vinehout, Terri Stanley, Treasurer. 5 p.m.
   State Government
· PSC hearing on Northern States Power Company utility upgrades
Holiday Inn, 2703 Craig Road, Eau Claire. Public Hearing Date Set for Eau Claire Area Utility Upgrades by Northern States Power Company (NSP) Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) staff Friday (Oct. 17) set public hearings for a proposed Northern States Power Company (NSP) transmission line and substation upgrade near Eau Claire at Gravel Island. Technical and public hearings will be held in the NSP service area near Eau Claire on January 26, 2009, at a location to be announced. Staff set a December 8 deadline for NSP written testimony, and a Dec. 15 deadline for PSC staff reports on the project. Rebuttals will take place in Madison at PSC headquarters on January 9, 2009, prior to public hearings. The NSP said in its initial request that the project is needed to provide fast isolation for faults on the system. The proposal calls for a creating a new Gravel Island substation to increase the current 69kv line to a 161kv line connecting to the Eau Claire substation. The utility project would replace the existing double-circuit 69kV line with a new single-circuit 161kV line from the new Gravel Island substation to the Hallie substation. This conversion is planned to proceed in two phases, the first phase of which will be between Gravel Island substation and Hallie substation. The first distribution transformer at Hallie will be converted to 161kV in this first phase (2010). The second phase will be between Hallie substation and the Presto Tap. The second Hallie distribution transformer will be converted to 161kV in this phase (2011). Construction of a new Wheaton substation from the Wheaton generating station in the Town of Wheaton would be followed by the construction of a new double-circuit 161kV line, to replace an existing single circuit 161kV line, which goes from Red Cedar to Hydro Lane (Lake Wissota). Depending on the route chosen based on public testimony during the public hearing and PSC staff recommendations, the cost of the project ranges from $33.8-million to $34.6-million. Once approved, construction will begin in 2009 and be completed in three phases by late-2011. 1:30 p.m.
· PSC hearing on Northern States Power Company utility upgrades
Holiday Inn, 2703 Craig Road, Eau Claire. Public Hearing Date Set for Eau Claire Area Utility Upgrades by Northern States Power Company (NSP) Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) staff Friday (Oct. 17) set public hearings for a proposed Northern States Power Company (NSP) transmission line and substation upgrade near Eau Claire at Gravel Island. Technical and public hearings will be held in the NSP service area near Eau Claire on January 26, 2009, at a location to be announced. Staff set a December 8 deadline for NSP written testimony, and a Dec. 15 deadline for PSC staff reports on the project. Rebuttals will take place in Madison at PSC headquarters on January 9, 2009, prior to public hearings. The NSP said in its initial request that the project is needed to provide fast isolation for faults on the system. The proposal calls for a creating a new Gravel Island substation to increase the current 69kv line to a 161kv line connecting to the Eau Claire substation. The utility project would replace the existing double-circuit 69kV line with a new single-circuit 161kV line from the new Gravel Island substation to the Hallie substation. This conversion is planned to proceed in two phases, the first phase of which will be between Gravel Island substation and Hallie substation. The first distribution transformer at Hallie will be converted to 161kV in this first phase (2010). The second phase will be between Hallie substation and the Presto Tap. The second Hallie distribution transformer will be converted to 161kV in this phase (2011). Construction of a new Wheaton substation from the Wheaton generating station in the Town of Wheaton would be followed by the construction of a new double-circuit 161kV line, to replace an existing single circuit 161kV line, which goes from Red Cedar to Hydro Lane (Lake Wissota). Depending on the route chosen based on public testimony during the public hearing and PSC staff recommendations, the cost of the project ranges from $33.8-million to $34.6-million. Once approved, construction will begin in 2009 and be completed in three phases by late-2011. 6 p.m.
· Senate Committee on Organization
Senate Parlor, State Capitol. 3:30 p.m.
· Special committee on Strengthening Wisconsin Families
300 Southeast, State Capitol.
· State Building Commission Governor's Conference Room, 115 East, State Capitol.
   Business Events
· South Side Business Club
Tel. (414) 321-7099 BUSINESS CLUB TO DISCUSS SOUTH SIDE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PLANS The South Side Business Club is inviting all interested business owners and area residents and community leaders to attend a round table discussion on business plans being developed for the South Side of Milwaukee. The presentation and discussion will include a focus on Southwest Side Business Development Plan but will include highlights of actions, outcomes, etc. of the Southeast Plan and Near South Side Plan. The meeting will take place on Monday evening, January 26, 2009 at 7 p.m. at Wilson Commons, 1400 W. Sonata Drive (located just south of Wilson Park [south of Howard Ave.] and just west of 13th St) The plan overview will include the area plan’s purpose and goals, the planning process, and the approval process. The purpose of the meeting will be to solicit comments and suggestions, and initiate public discussion with area residents, businesses, employees, employers, and political and organizational leaders. Presenting an overview of the planning process will be Urban Planner Karen Mierow. Mierow is member of the American Institute of Certified Planners and the American Institute of Architects. She holds a Masters Degrees in Architecture and a Masters Degree in Urban Planning. Co-presenter will be Gloria Stearns, an urban planner and landscape architect. 7 p.m.
   Other
· Commerce Secretary Leinenkugel addresses Wisconsin Restaurant Association’s Board of Directors
Midway Motel Riverfront, 1835 Rose St., La Crosse. For additional information, contact Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661. 12:45 p.m.
· DWD Secretary Gassman addresses apprenticeship conference
KI Convention Center, 333 Main St., Green Bay. Highlights Governor’s Next Steps to Meet Economic Challenges State Labor Secretary to promote apprenticeship as pathway to good jobs MADISON – In anticipation of a federal stimulus package and public works projects, Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Roberta Gassman will address the Biennial Apprenticeship Conference at 9:45 a.m. Monday, January 26, 2009, at KI Convention Center in Green Bay. In her remarks, Secretary Gassman will highlight Governor Doyle’s next steps at the state level to meet the national economic crisis. A member of Governor Doyle’s Cabinet, she leads the Department of Workforce Development and oversees more than 1,600 employees charged with strengthening Wisconsin’s workforce. CONTACT: Dick Jones, Agency Liaison, 608-267-4780 9:45 a.m.
· Former Detroit Mayor Archer addresses UW-Whitewater Martin Luther King Jr. event
Hamilton Center, UW-Whitewater. This month, the entire country will come together to honor a man that is among history¹s most important figures with the celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. The University of Wisconsin ­ Whitewater will honor King with its 23rd annual commemorative event at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, in the Hamilton Center. The event is free and open to the public. The commemorative event will be centered around the question of whether the dream that Martin Luther King envisioned so many years ago has finally been realized with the election of Barack Obama. The event will also focus on the challenges still facing the black community and the additional work that still needs to be done in the fight to erase prejudice and hate from society. ³The event shows a commitment to under-served communities and it works to enhance relations of different ethnic groups in the community,² Interim Director of Academic Support Services Richard McGregory said. ³And that¹s exactly what King¹s message represented.² The featured speaker at the event will be Dennis Archer, the first African-American to be elected president of the American Bar Association. Archer started his career teaching students with learning disabilities in the Detroit public school system for five years. After earning his Juris Doctor in 1970, he worked as a trial lawyer and served as a law professor at the Detroit College of Law and Wayne State University Law School. In 1985, was appointed to the Michigan Supreme Court and served an eight-year term and in his last year on the bench he was named the most respected judge in Michigan by ³Michigan Lawyers Weekly.² From 1994-2001, Archer served as mayor of Detroit where he earned accolades worldwide for changing the city¹s image and direction and for revitalizing the city¹s downtown area by spearheading efforts to build two new sporting facilities in Comerica Park and Ford Field. In recognition of his efforts, Archer was named Public Official of the Year by ³Governing² magazine. From 2003-2004 he served as the first African-American head of the American Bar Association. Recently, he was involved with President-Elect Obama¹s transition team specializing in issues regarding transportation. ³Dennis Archer is a very distinguished and remarkable person,² McGregory said. ³We¹re excited to have him speak at the event.² The event is sponsored by the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Event Planning Committee and the Office of the Chancellor. 3:30 p.m.
· State Building Commission Administrative Affairs Subcommittee 330 Southwest, State Capitol.
· State Building Commission Higher Education Subcommittee 330 Southwest, State Capitol.

January 27
   State Government
· Assembly Session
Assembly Chamber,State Capitol. 1. Call of the Roll. 2. Introduction, first reading and reference of proposals. 3. Committee reports and subsequent reference of proposals. 4. Messages from the senate, and other communications. 5. Consideration of conference committee reports and vetoes. 6. Consideration of senate action on proposals approved by the assembly. 7. Making and consideration of motions for reconsideration of passage, indefinite postponement, concurrence, or nonconcurrence. 8. Consideration of resolutions. 9. Third reading of assembly proposals. QUESTION: Having been read three times, shall the proposal be passed? 10. Third reading of senate proposals. QUESTION: Having been read three times, shall the proposal be concurred in? 11. Second reading and amendment of assembly proposals. QUESTION: Shall the proposal be ordered engrossed and read a third time? Assembly Bill 1 Relating to: state procurement of products and services from businesses located in this state and setting a goal for local government to purchase a certain percentage of products and services from businesses located in this state. (FE) By Representatives Clark, Molepske, Bernard Schaber, Benedict, Berceau, Black, Danou, Hixson, Mason, Nelson, Parisi, Pasch, Pope-Roberts, Radcliffe, Richards, Roys, Seidel, Sheridan, Shilling, Sinicki, Smith, Van Akkeren, A. Williams, Zigmunt, Jorgensen and Barca; cosponsored by Senators Plale and Erpenbach. Report Assembly Amendment 1 adoption, Ayes 11, Noes 0, Assembly Amendment 2 adoption, Ayes 11, Noes 0, passage as amended recommended by committee on Jobs, the Economy and Small Business, Ayes 9, Noes 2. Placed on calendar 1-27-2009 by committee on Rules. Assembly Bill 2 Relating to: state procurement of contractual services. (FE) By Representatives Pocan, Zigmunt, Barca, Benedict, Berceau, Bernard Schaber, Black, Clark, Danou, Fields, Grigsby, Hraychuck, Hubler, Jorgensen, Krusick, Mason, Molepske, Nelson, Parisi, Pasch, Pope-Roberts, Radcliffe, Richards, Roys, Seidel, Sheridan, Shilling, Sinicki, Smith, Van Akkeren, A. Williams and Young; cosponsored by Senators Wirch, Coggs, Hansen, Lassa, Lehman, Miller, Robson, Sullivan and Taylor. Report passage recommended by committee on Jobs, the Economy and Small Business, Ayes 9, Noes 2. Placed on calendar 1-27-2009 by committee on Rules. 12. Second reading and amendment of senate proposals. QUESTION: Shall the proposal be ordered to a third reading? 13. Motions may be offered. 14. Announcements. 15. Adjournment. 11 a.m.
· Joint Committee on Finance executive session
412 East, State Capitol.
· Senate Committee on Commerce, Utilities, Energy, and Rail executive session
400 Southeast, State Capitol.
· Senate Committee on Commerce, Utilities, Energy, and Rail public hearing
400 Southeast, State Capitol.
· Senate Committee on Economic Development informational hearing
411 South, State Capitol.
· Senate Committee on Veterans and Military Affairs, Biotechnology, and Financial Institutions informational hearing
Wauwatosa City Hall, Council Chambers, 7725 W. North Ave., Wauwatosa.
· Wisconsin Technical College System Board
WTCS System Office, 4622 University Ave., Madison.
   Business Events
· Waukesha Co. Chamber of Commerce briefing on Milwaukee mandated sick leave
Metropolitan Builders Association, N16 W23321 Stone Ridge Drive, Waukesha. Milwaukee's Mandated Sick Leave: What does it mean to Waukesha County businesses? Limited to 70 people Continental breakfast served. No cost to attend. To register visit http://www.waukesha.org/registration_form.asp?fid=33&title=January+27+%2D+Mandated+Sick+Pay+Briefing 7:30 a.m.
   Other
· Author Neamat Nojumi addresses Milwaukee Rotary Club
Milwaukee County War Memorial Building, 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive, Milwaukee. Neamat Nojumi is a Senior Research Fellow at the Center for World Religions, Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University specializing in Central and Southwest Asia. He is author of the Rise of the Taliban in Afghanistan: Mass Mobilization, Civil War, and the Future of Region (2002) and co-author of After the Taliban: Life and Security in Rural Afghanistan (2008). He became a peace activist in 1990s after serving in both the military and political fronts in the Afghan resistance known as Mujahideen. In addition to his scholarly research, he consults for various private and public organizations. 12 p.m.
· Birthday -- Sen. Neal Kedzie
· City of Milwaukee 163rd Birthday Party
Discovery World at Pier Wisconsin, 500 N. Harbor Drive, Milwaukee. For details visit http://www.milwaukeepressclub.org/events/details/66 5:30 p.m.
· DHS public hearing
Dept. of Health Services, Room 630, 1 W. Wilson St., Madison. Hearing on emergency and permanent orders permitting disability benefit specialists to report abuse, neglect or financial exploitation of elderly and at-risk adults without violating non-disclosure provisions. 10 a.m.
· DOA Project Selection Committee
Lussier Family Heritage Center, 3101 Lake Farm Road, Madison. 8 a.m.
· OCI rulemaking hearing
125 S. Webster St., Room 227, Madison. Contact: Julie E. Walsh 608-264-8101 1 p.m.
· U.S. Rep. Kind telephone town hall
Contact: Anne Lupardus Hanson Phone: 202-225-5506 anne.lupardus@mail.house.gov Discussion will Focus on Issues Coming Before the New Congress & Administration WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI) today announced that he will hold a LIVE discussion for residents of the Third Congressional District on Tuesday, January 27, 2009 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. CST. The discussion will focus on issues coming before the new Congress and Administration, including the economy and health care. The Telephone Town Hall Meeting allows Rep. Kind to reach thousands of Third Congressional District constituents at once. The meetings provide an opportunity for constituents to hear from Rep. Kind on the issues affecting them, and communicate their questions and concerns directly back to him from their own home. “These are trying times for our country, and Congress is poised to act on legislation that will work to get our economy back on track and help families who are struggling,” Rep. Kind said. “While I will continue to enjoy meeting with residents face-to-face at my conventional town hall meetings across the district, I understand they can be difficult for people to attend, given the unpredictable weather, work, family, or health reasons. This way, we can have a discussion about these important issues, and people can stay in their own homes.” Teleconferencing technology allows Rep. Kind to set up a large-scale conference call involving potentially thousands of Third Congressional District constituents. At the start of the call on Tuesday (approximately 7:00 p.m. CST), a random selection of households in the 3rd CD will receive a call from Rep. Kind, inviting them to participate in the Telephone Town Hall. Constituents will then have the option of staying on the line to hear a few comments by Rep. Kind followed by the opportunity to participate in a question and answer session. Interested constituents may also dial-into the Telephone Town Hall themselves by calling (toll-free) 1-877-229-8493, and entering the code 13433. 7 p.m.
· UW Board of Regents Personnel Matters Review Committee
19th floor conference room, 1220 Linden Drive, Madison. Agenda Convene in open session and consider a motion to move into closed session to consider a disciplinary recommendation regarding a public employee, as permitted by s.19.85(1)(b) and s.19.85(1)(f), Wis. Stats. 3 p.m.
· UW-Madison Nelson Institute presents "Controlling Eutrophication in the Yahara Lakes: Challenges and Opportunities"
1106 Mechanical Engineering Building, UW-Madison. Please join us for the first session of the Spring 2009 Community Environmental Forum With: Richard Lathrop, Research Limnologist Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources The Spring 2009 Nelson Institute Community Environmental Forum is a series of six events that will focus on issues facing the Yahara Lakes (Mendota, Monona, Wingra, Waubesa, and Kegonsa). It is a follow-up to the Clean Future for the Yahara Lakes Conference held last October. We have adapted the format of our Community Environmental Forum from the previous Friday lunch discussions to Tuesday after-work sessions. Our new location in the Mechanical Engineering Building offers more space for a larger audience and free parking is available right next to the building in Lot 17. No RSVP is required, but please note the new time and place for the Community Environmental Forum. The Clean Future for the Yahara Lakes Conference focused on practical and effective ways to address excess nutrient and sediment pollution, which degrades water quality, feeds excess growth of weeds and algae, and leads to frequent beach closings. The Community Environmental Forum continues this critical discussion about our local water resources. The first event will take place on Tuesday, January 27, 2009, in room 1106 Mechanical Engineering Building. Richard Lathrop of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and UW-Madison Center for Limnology will provide updates and an overview with his presentation, "Controlling Eutrophication in the Yahara Lakes: Challenges and Opportunities." 5:30 p.m. Coffee and cookies served in the lobby outside room 1106 Mechanical Engineering 5:45 p.m. Welcome and Introductions followed by Richard Lathrop, "Controlling Eutrophication in the Yahara Lakes: Challenges and Opportunities" 6:30 p.m. Audience discussion 7:00 p.m. End of program The complete series schedule (each event beginning at 5:30 p.m.) includes: Feb. 17, Farming in the Yahara Watershed, Speakers to be announced March 3, Controlling Urban Stormwater Pollution, James Bachhuber, AECOM Water & Gary Brown, Facilities Planning and Management, UW-Madison March 24, Wetland Restoration: Can it Improve the Quality of the Yahara Lakes? Ken Potter, Civil & Environmental Engineering and Nelson Institute, UW-Madison April 7, Organizing effective coordination and decision-making for Yahara Lakes, Speakers TBA April 21, Future Scenarios for the Yahara Lakes, Stephen Carpenter, Center for Limnology, UW-Madison For more information, please visit http://www.nelson.wisc.edu/outreach/community 5:30 p.m.
· Wisconsin Dairy 2020 Council
Dept. of Commerce, First Floor Conference Room, 201 W. Washington Ave., Madison. 10 a.m.
· Wisconsin Right to Life news conference Rotunda, State Capitol.

January 28
   State Government
· Assembly Committee on Natural Resources public hearing
417 North (GAR Hall), State Capitol.
· Assembly Session
Assembly Chamber, State Capitol. 10:01 a.m.
· Gov. Doyle presents State of the State Address
Assembly Chamber, State Capitol. Will Focus on Creating Opportunity in Challenging Times In the face of national economic challenges, Governor Jim Doyle will focus on ways to move the state forward in his annual State of the State Address tomorrow, Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. in the State Capitol before the State Legislature. “In my address before the Legislature and the people of Wisconsin, I will lay out the impact that the national economic slowdown has had on the state and outline the next steps we must take to ensure that we protect our priorities like good schools for our kids, health care for those who need it, and jobs for our hardworking families,” Governor Doyle said. “We meet at a time of great difficulty in this country, which has been felt deeply in this state, but I know we can meet any challenge and come through stronger than ever” The address will be carried live on Wisconsin Public Radio’s Ideas Network and on Wisconsin Public Television. To view the State of the State address LIVE on the Internet, go to the Governor’s website at: http://www.wisgov.state.wi.us. Contact: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162 7 p.m.
· Natural Resources Board
GEF 2, 101 S. Webster St., Madison. Agenda: http://dnr.wi.gov/org/nrboard/2009/January/01-09-NRB-Agenda.pdf 8:30 a.m.
· Senate Session
Senate Chamber,State Capitol. First Order. Call of Roll. Second Order. Chief clerk's entries. Third Order. Introduction, first reading and reference of proposals; reference of appointments. Fourth Order. Report of committees. Fifth Order. Petitions and communications. Sixth Order. Advice and consent of the Senate. QUESTION: Shall the appointment be confirmed? Finder-Stone, Patricia, of De Pere, as a member of the Board on Aging and Long Term Care to serve for the term ending May 1, 2013. Lease, Mary, of Oregon, as a member of the Nursing Home Administrator Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2011. Seventh Order. Referrals and receipt of committee reports concerning proposed administrative rules. Eighth Order. Messages from the Assembly. Ninth Order. Special Orders. Tenth Order. Consideration of motions, resolutions, and joint resolutions not requiring a third reading. QUESTION: Shall the resolution be adopted? Senate Resolution 2. Relating to: the senate rules. By Senators Decker, Risser, and Hansen. QUESTION: Shall the joint resolution be adopted? Senate Joint Resolution 2. Relating to: commending Jim Miller on his retirement as president of the Wisconsin Policy Research Institute. By Senator Darling. Senate Joint Resolution 3. Relating to: Proclaiming Data Privacy Day. By Senators Erpenbach, Taylor, Lehman, Hansen, Wirch, Kanavas, Cowles, and Lazich; cosponsored by Representatives Pope-Roberts, Roys, Soletski, Berceau, Molepske, and Townsend. Senate Joint Resolution 4. Relating to: recognizing February 2009 as American Heart Month and February 6, 2009, as Wear Red For Women Day. By Senators Lassa, Darling, Coggs, Cowles, Hansen, Harsdorf, Hopper, Kedzie, Lazich, Lehman, Miller, Olsen, Plale, Schultz, Sullivan, and Vinehout; cosponsored by Representatives Shilling, Nygren, Ballweg, Benedict, Berceau, Brooks, Cullen, Davis, Grigsby, Hebl, Hintz, Hraychuck, Kerkman, Molepske, Petersen, Pasch, Sinicki, Spanbauer, Radcliffe, Toles, Turner, Townsend, Strachota, M. Williams, Ziegelbauer, Zigmunt, and Pope-Roberts. Senate Joint Resolution 5. Relating to: commending the heroic efforts of US Airways pilot Jeff Skiles in the Hudson River crash of flight 1549. By Senators Erpenbach and Miller. Eleventh Order. Second reading and amendments of senate joint resolutions and senate bills. QUESTION: Shall the bill be ordered to a third reading? Senate Bill 15. Relating to: payment of Wisconsin supplemental and extended unemployment insurance benefits in this state. (FE) By Senators Coggs, Decker, Miller, Hansen, Lehman, and Wirch; cosponsored by Representatives Sinicki, Sheridan, Nelson, Seidel, Staskunas, Barca, Colon, Van Akkeren, Jorgensen, Toles, Parisi, and Honadel. (Report passage, with emergency statement attached, pursuant to s. 16.47 (2), Wisconsin Statutes, recommended by joint committee on Finance, Ayes 15, Noes 0) Twelfth Order. Second reading and amendments of assembly joint resolutions and assembly bills. Thirteenth Order. Third reading of joint resolutions and bills. Fourteenth Order. Motions may be offered. Fifteenth Order. Announcements, adjournment honors, and remarks under special privilege. Sixteenth Order. Adjournment. 2 p.m.
   Business Events
· 4th Annual DBA Expansion Symposium
Lambeau Field,Green Bay.
   Other
· Birthday -- Rep. Jeff Stone
· Birthday -- Sen. Jon Erpenbach
· Dane County executive debate
City Hall Council Chambers, 5520 Lacy Road, Fitchburg. Sponsored by the Dane County Public Affairs Council. 4:30 p.m.
· DNR public hearing
DNR Southeast Regional Headquarters, Rooms 140-141, 2300 N. Martin Luther king Jr. Drive, Milwaukee. Hearing on regulations dealing with the applications of reasonably available control technology for volatile organic compound emissions from certain operations within the synthetic organic chemical manufacturing industry. 1:30 p.m.
· DOT public hearing
Hill Farms State Transportation Building, Room 144-B, 4802 Sheboygan Ave., Madison. Hearing on a proposed amendment increasing from 60 to 90 days the notice that municipalities and counties must give the department prior to the first day of the month in which an ordinance enacting, amending, or repealing the registration fees is effective. 1:30 p.m.
· First Lady Doyle to deliver Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle? game prize
Contact: Carina Marquez-Barrientos, Office of the First Lady, 608-575-5608 First Lady Jessica Doyle will deliver a Where in Wisconsin is Jessica Doyle? weekly winner prize to an elementary school student on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. at Clara Barton Elementary School in Milwaukee. While there, Mrs. Doyle will encourage students to learn more about their home state and win weekly prizes by playing this online game. Students in fourth through eighth grades can research the three clues found online each week to identify the mystery city. More information and game clues can be found at http://jessicadoyle.wi.gov/wheresjessica/. Earlier, at 11:00 a.m., Mrs. Doyle will visit students at Townsend Street Elementary School in Milwaukee. Mrs. Doyle will discuss Wisconsin geography and history with the students. First Lady Jessica Doyle’s Events for Wednesday, January 28, 2009: 11:00 p.m. Townsend Street Elementary School, 3360 N. Sherman Blvd., Milwaukee. 1:00 p.m. Clara Barton Elementary School, 5700 W. Green Tree Road, Milwaukee. 11 a.m.
· Progressive Dane general membership meeting
Madison Public Library (Downtown branch), Madison. Progressive Dane's General Membership Meeting will be held Wednesday, January 28, 2008, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on the second floor of Madison's Downtown Public Library. Aaron Crandall, Chairing In addition to regular reports from staff, alders, supervisors, and/or school board members, items of particular interest being presented for vote this month include: - Jacque Pokorney, Progressive Dane Co-chair, will recap the outcome of the Steering Committee retreat and present the Progressive Dane 2009 Priorities and Plan of Action for discussion and approval. - PD Elections Chair Lukas Diaz will be presenting more candidate endorsement recommendations for vote. - There will also be some time set aside for a discussion regarding the recent activities regarding the bus fare increase and the Transit and Parking Commission and how that impacts good government and process. Individuals who are not members of Progressive Dane are encouraged to attend. Anyone with questions or special needs should contact the Progressive Dane office at 358-2940 or office@prodane.org. 6:30 p.m.
· PSC hearing
Amnicon Falls Room, 610 N. Whitney Way, Madison. (Docket 6720-DR-101) Petition of AT&T Wisconsin for Declaratory Ruling that Its "U-verse Voice" Service is Subject to Exclusive Federal Jurisdiction 9 a.m.
· RNC holds winter meeting and elects new chair
Capital Hilton, 1001 16th Street NW, Washington, D.C.
· State Superintendent’s Entrepreneurship Task Force
Sheraton Hotel, 706 John Nolen Drive, Madison. Entrepreneurship task force to hold first meeting Wednesday MADISON—State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster will welcome members of her entrepreneurship task force at 10 a.m. Wednesday for the group’s first meeting at the Madison Sheraton Hotel. The State Superintendent’s Entrepreneurship Task Force is made up of business and community representatives; educational advocates and leaders, including teachers from multiple disciplines; and entrepreneurs from across the state. James Morgan, vice president of marketing and membership for Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce in Madison, and Rep. Sondy Pope-Roberts (D-Middleton) will co-chair the group. Following introductions and the state superintendent’s welcome, task force members will get an overview of their work, including its relationship to the Partnership for 21st Century Learning. At 10:45 a.m., student entrepreneurs Hannah Iverson, a graduate of Plum City High School in Pierce County, and Tony Hernandez, a graduate of Waukesha North High School, will present information on businesses they founded while in high school. Work sessions will fill the remainder of the day. The next meeting will be held on March 17. In May, the task force will present recommendations to the state superintendent for a framework that will guide district planning for entrepreneurship education across the curriculum. CONTACT: Patrick Gasper, Communications Officer, (608) 266-3559 10 a.m.
· Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Winter Meeting
Monona Terrace, 1 John Nolen Drive, Madison. On January 28th, WBA have a half-hour Leadership Forum featuring Mike Sheridan and Jeff Fitzgerald, which will be broadcast on WisconsinEye. 2:30 p.m.
· Wisconsin Commission on Uniform State Laws
400 Southeast, State Capitol. 1:30 p.m.

January 29
   State Government
· Senate Committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue executive session
201 Southeast, State Capitol.
· Senate Committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue public hearing
201 Southeast, State Capitol.
· Senate Committee on Labor, Elections and Urban Affairs executive session
411 South, State Capitol.
· Senate Committee on Labor, Elections and Urban Affairs public hearing
411 South, State Capitol.
   Business Events
· Regional Workforce Alliance of Southeastern Wisconsin convention
Zoofari Conference Center, 9715 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee. Business and community leaders will discuss regional efforts to build a networked talent development system Milwaukee – The Milwaukee 7 Regional Workforce Alliance (RWA) of Southeastern Wisconsin is hosting a summit on “Linking and Leveraging to Build a Regional Talent Development Network” Thursday, January 29 at the Zoofari Conference Center. Business and community leaders will discuss regional efforts to build a networked talent development system for 2009 and beyond. Highlights include: • Richard A. Meeusen, Chairman, President and CEO, Badger Meter, Inc. will speak on the “Importance of Regionalism” in economic and talent development for the Milwaukee 7 Region; • Pat O’Brien, Executive Director of the Milwaukee 7 economic development group will address efforts of the Milwaukee 7 in the current economic climate and how the RWA’s talent development network can continue to drive talent toward targeted industry clusters; and • A panel discussion featuring four innovative projects funded through the WIRED Innovation Fund, a $2.5 million resource administered by the RWA. The RWA is a collaboration of organizations representing workforce development, economic development and education across southeastern Wisconsin. The Alliance invests in strategies to build the skilled workforce that Milwaukee-area businesses need to compete in today’s global economy. For more information, call (414) 905-0105 or visit http://www.milwaukee7-rwa.org. CONTACT: Mike Mortell, 414-305-1483 Eric Paulsen, 414-905-0111 8 a.m.
· WIN-Centergy: Educating a tech-savvy workforce
Dreyfus University Center, Melvin R. Laird Room 203, Stevens Point. For details visit http://www.wisconsintechnologycouncil.com/events/win/?ID=650 11:30 a.m.
   Other
· Birthday -- Rep. Jason Fields
· Birthday -- U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan
· Circus World Museum Foundation Executive Committee
Feld Building, Circus World Museum, 550 Water St., Baraboo. Agenda 1) Call to Order 2) Approval of 11/20/08 meeting minutes 3) Financial Update a) Comparison of budget numbers to actual numbers b) Comparison of budget numbers to anticipated year end numbers c) Strategy discussion for budget shortfalls and/or successes 4) Development Update a) Comparison of budget numbers to actual numbers b) Comparison of budget numbers to anticipated year end numbers c) Strategy discussion for budget shortfalls and/or successes 5) 2010 Budget Update 6) Executive Director’s Report a) Top three work items of executive director b) Top two work items of each CWM staff 7) Board Organization 8) Lease & Management Agreement 9) Fundraising for Annual Fund and Other Activities. “Discussions of private fundraising by the CWMF board and its committees may be conducted in a non-public setting as a result of a review by the Attorney General’s Office and an amendment to the lease and management agreement between the CWMF and the Society’s Board of Curators.” 10) Closed Session: In accordance with section 19.85(1)(c), Wis. Stats., a portion of the meeting will be closed to consider the employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the governmental body as jurisdiction or exercises responsibility. 11) Adjournment Steve Freese Executive Director 608-356-8341 9 a.m.
· Commerce Secretary Leinenkugel addresses Plymouth Chamber of Commerce
The Bull at Pinehurst Farms, 1 Long Drive, Sheboygan Falls. Department of Commerce Secretary Dick Leinenkugel will give remarks at the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce annual dinner. For additional information, contact Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661. 7 p.m.
· Family Planning Health Services community forum on women's health
David R. Obey Health Sciences Building, Lecture Hall, Northcentral Technical College, 1000 Campus Drive, Wausau. 7 p.m.
· Gov. Doyle highlights opportunities for moving Wisconsin forward
Milwaukee Intermodal Station, 433 W. St. Paul Ave., Milwaukee. Following his State of the State Address, Governor Doyle will discuss ways to move Wisconsin forward tomorrow, Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the Milwaukee Intermodal Station. The Governor will highlight the next steps to protect the priorities of Wisconsin and lead the state through the national economic crisis. Contact: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162 10 a.m.
· Gov. Doyle highlights opportunities for moving Wisconsin forward
Metro Transit Center, 901 University Ave., Green Bay. Following his State of the State Address, Governor Doyle will discuss ways to move Wisconsin forward tomorrow, Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 12:00 p.m. at the Metro Transit Center in Green Bay. The Governor will highlight the next steps to protect the priorities of Wisconsin and lead the state through the national economic crisis. Contact: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162 12 p.m.
· Gov. Doyle highlights opportunities for moving Wisconsin forward
Wisconsin Laborers Apprentice and Training Center, 4633 LIUNA Way, DeForest. Will Also Sign Legislation to Protect Wisconsin Workers Following his State of the State Address, Governor Doyle will discuss ways to move Wisconsin forward tomorrow, Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 2:15 p.m. at the Wisconsin Laborers District Council Apprentice and Training Center in Deforest. The Governor will highlight the next steps to protect the priorities of Wisconsin and lead the state through the national economic crisis. At the event, Governor Doyle will also sign critical legislation protecting Wisconsin workers. Contact: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162 2:15 p.m.
· Governor's Council on Tourism
WHEDA Commerce Center, First Floor Conference Room, 201 W. Washington Ave., Madison. 10 a.m.
· Joint meeting of the Commercial and Multi-Family Dwelling Advisory Code Councils
Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel, 3841 E. Washington Ave., Madison. 9:30 a.m.
· OCI Life Settlement Subgroup
125 S. Webster, Room 227, Madison. 10 a.m.
· Office of the Commissioner of Insurance
125 S Webster St. 2nd floor, Room 227, Madison. CONTACT: James Harris(608)267-2833 2 p.m.
· On the Issues with Mike Gousha: Attorneys and former Judges Michael Brennan and John Franke
Marquette University Law School, Eisenberg Memorial Hall, Room 325, Milwaukee. How do judges view trial lawyers? We’ll hear the unique perspective of former Milwaukee County Judges Brennan and Franke, who are returning to careers as trial lawyers with the Milwaukee firm of Gass, Weber and Mullins. We’ll also learn more about their decision to leave the bench to take on new challenges. 12:15 p.m.
· RNC holds winter meeting and elects new chair
Capital Hilton, 1001 16th Street NW, Washington, D.C.
· Supreme Court debate
Radisson Hotel and Convention Center, Green Bay. Supreme Court candidate debate at the Wisconsin Newspaper Association Convention: Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson and Jefferson County Judge Randy Koschnick. Moderator: George Stanley, managing editor of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel 2:30 p.m.
· Wisconsin Newspaper Association Annual Convention
Radisson Hotel and Conference Center, Green Bay. For information: http://www.wnanews.com/index.asp?menuID=167&firstlevelmenuID=135 9 a.m.

January 30
   Other
· Commerce Secretary Leinenkugel addresses Superior Chamber of Commerce
Rothwell Student Center, 1605 Catlin Ave., Superior. For additional information, contact Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661. 7:15 p.m.
· Gov. Doyle highlights opportunities for moving Wisconsin forward
Contact: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162 9:15 a.m. UW Marathon County, Campus Union, 518 S. 7th Ave., Wausau. 11 a.m. Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, 3800 Starr Ave., Eau Claire. 12:45 p.m. UW La Crosse, Cartwright Center, 1741 State St., La Crosse. Following his State of the State Address on Wednesday, Governor Doyle will discuss ways to move Wisconsin forward tomorrow, Friday, January 30, 2009 at the University of Wisconsin – Marathon County in Wausau, the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport in Eau Claire, and the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse. The Governor will highlight the next steps to protect the priorities of Wisconsin and lead the state through the national economic crisis. Following his State of the State Address on Wednesday, Governor Doyle will discuss ways to move Wisconsin forward tomorrow at the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse. The Governor will highlight the next steps to protect the priorities of Wisconsin and lead the state through the national economic crisis. 9:15 a.m.
· Milwaukee Co. Exec. Walker designates Vel R. Phillips Juvenile Justice Center
Children’s Court Center, 10201 Watertown Plank Road, Wauwatosa. WALKER TO SIGN RESOLUTION RENAMING CHILDREN’S COURT CENTER AFTER THE HONORABLE VEL R. PHILLIPS County Executive Scott Walker will sign a resolution tomorrow morning renaming the Children’s Court Center after the Honorable Vel R. Phillips. The center will become the Vel R. Phillips Juvenile Justice Center. Walker will be joined at the dedication ceremony by former Governor Patrick Lucey, Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson, Congresswoman Gwen Moore, County Board Chairman Lee Holloway, Supervisor Elizabeth Coggs, and other state and local elected officials. Supervisor Coggs sponsored the resolution to recognize Mrs. Phillips for her many contributions to our community. The program will feature the unveiling of a portrait of Mrs. Phillips painted by Ras Ammar Nsoroma, and vocal solos by Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra bassist Laura Snyder. For more information, please contact: Fran McLaughlin (414) 278-4244, (414) 235-6592 11 a.m.
· Milwaukee Co. Supervisor West hosts Community Justice Resource Center open house
1673 South 9th St., Milwaukee. Contact: Harold Mester, Public Information Manager 414/278-4051 or harold.mester@milwcnty.com “Where Hope Blooms, Change Happens” Milwaukee, WI – Milwaukee County Supervisors Peggy A. West, Elizabeth M. Coggs and Chairman Lee Holloway are inviting all Milwaukee County residents to an open house at the Milwaukee County Community Justice Resource Center this Friday. The theme of the event is, “Where Hope Blooms, Change Happens.” Supervisor West will be on hand, along with Inspector Richard Schmidt from the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney John Chisholm, Attorney Paige Styler from the Public Defender’s Office, and Kit Murphy-McNally of the Benedict Center. “This unique facility helps offenders make the transition back to the community,” said Supervisor West, 2nd Vice-Chair of the County Board and Chair of the Health & Human Needs Committee. “This is also a tool that Milwaukee County uses to reduce the burden on tax payers. If we are able to prevent individuals from re-offending, everyone benefits.” “The testimony I have heard as Chair of the Task Force on Work Reform for Men is that these individuals want to get back to work for the good of their families. This facility gives them a big step forward in that regard,” Supervisor Coggs added. “The Community Justice Resource Center is a cost effective, community-based alternative to incarceration,” Chairman Lee Holloway said. “This facility is designed to give offenders the skills necessary to effectively re-enter society.” The Resource Center provides daily surveillance and supervision, rewards positive behaviors and immediately enforces sanctions for negative behavior, and provides a network of resources to all offenders, including fatherhood, community service, basic education and nutrition. 12 p.m.
· OCI Affirmitive Action Advisory Committee
125 S. Webster St., Conference Room 219, Madison. 10 a.m.
· PK-16 Council sponsors Making Opportunity Affordable Strategic Planning Event Concourse Hotel, Madison.
· RNC holds winter meeting and elects new chair
Capital Hilton, 1001 16th Street NW, Washington, D.C.
· South Suburban Chamber, Transit NOW present: "Building Wealth - Creating and Capturing the Benefits of Investing in Transit in Southeastern Wisconsin"
Auditorium, MATC South, 6665 S. Howell Ave., Milwaukee. The historic transit decisions being made in Southeastern Wisconsin in the coming months will shape our ability to create wealth in our communities. Mr. Bernstein will share his expertise and shed light on our opportunities and potential pit falls. The South Suburban Chamber of Commerce, representing Oak Creek and Franklin, and Transit NOW are co-sponsoring a national expert presentation on Building Wealth--Creating and Capturing the Benefits of Investing in Transit in Southeastern Wisconsin. Nationally recognized transit expert, Scott Bernstein, Founder and President of the Center for Neighborhood Technology, Chicago, will illustrate how certain transit investment strategies spur sustainable development and economic vitality, and builds thriving neighborhoods and lasting value. He will share his expertise on setting priorities for transportation investing that can reduce the cost of living, reduce the risk of foreclosures, improve local tax bases, and create new jobs and wealth. Ken Yunker, Director, Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission, will also give brief overview of the status and the next steps of current transit proposals. This event is being hosted by the Milwaukee Area Technical College. Co-sponsors include The Greater Milwaukee Association of Realtors and the Associated General Contractors of Greater Milwaukee. Buffet breakfast will be served at 7:30 A.M. Contact: Barb Wesener, executive director, South Suburban Chamber of Commerce 414-768-5845 Kerry Thomas, executive director, Transit NOW 262-246-6151, 414-303-1825 mobile 7:30 a.m.
· Wisconsin Farmers Union Sustainable Bioenergy and Local Climate Change Solutions seminar
Dairy Learning Center Classroom, UW-River Falls. Click here for details. 9 a.m.
· Wisconsin Newspaper Association Annual Convention
Radisson Hotel and Conference Center, Green Bay. For information: http://www.wnanews.com/index.asp?menuID=167&firstlevelmenuID=135 8 a.m.

January 31
   Other
· Pro-life coalition holds rally on UW-Madison campus
Library Mall, UW-Madison. Citizens gathering in support of pre-born babies and in opposition to plan to do second-trimester abortions at UW-affiliated Madison Surgery Center Madison--A coalition of organizations including Wisconsin Right to Life, Wisconsin Family Council, Pro-Life Wisconsin, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Madison, Vigil for Life and others from around the state are holding a Rally for Life at the UW Library Mall (the 700 block of State Street) at 12:15 pm this Saturday, January 31st. The University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, the UW Medical Foundation and Meriter Hospital are considering performing 2nd trimester abortions on children at the Madison Surgery Center. Some of these abortions will be on babies who could be born alive and live normal lives. These abortions would not be legal if done in most other countries of the world including France, Germany and Italy. The coalition is also sponsoring a petition drive. Online petitions, as well as downloadable copies, are available at http://www.wifamilycouncil.org/ or http://www.wrtl.org/ or http://www.prolifewisconsin.org/. Over 20,000 signed petitions have already been delivered to Meriter Hospital, which is also involved with the plan. Members of the coalition are also urging concerned citizens to contact the following decision makers: University of Wisconsin Chancellor Biddy Martin Board Member of UW Hospital & Clinics 161 Bascom Hall Madison, WI 53706 (608) 262-9946 chancellor@news.wisc.edu Donna Katen-Bahensky, President & CEO of UW Hospital & Clinics 608-263-6400 Jim Woodward, President & CEO of Meriter Hospital 608-417-6000 Dr. Jeffrey Grossman, President & CEO of UW Medical Foundation 608-263-7013 Wisconsin Family Council is a statewide, not-for-profit organization advancing Judeo Christian principles and values in Wisconsin by strengthening and preserving marriage, family, life and liberty. Contact: Julaine K. Appling 608-256-3228 (Madison); 888-378-7395 (toll-free) media@wifamilycouncil.org 12:15 p.m.
· RNC holds winter meeting and elects new chair
Capital Hilton, 1001 16th Street NW, Washington, D.C.