Assembly Paves Way for a Cleaner, Healthier Wisconsin

Assembly Paves Way for a Cleaner, Healthier Wisconsin

Rep. Hintz Supports Key Environmental Legislation

Madison –Rep. Hintz (D-Oshkosh) voted in support of several key bills that passed the Wisconsin State Assembly today.

“I am pleased to announce that today the Wisconsin State Assembly took up and passed 3 important pieces of legislation that will help protect our state’s priceless natural resources”, said Rep. Hintz.

SB 107: Ensure the Proper Recycling and Disposal of Electronic Waste
Rep. Hintz is a co-sponsor of SB 107 which sets standards for the recycling of e-waste. “With the rapid advance in technology, we create large amounts of electronic waste that pose a significant risk to the environment if disposed of in a landfill or illegally dumped,” said Rep. Hintz. The metals and toxic chemicals found in most electronics can pollute groundwater or the air. This bill set standards in place for the recycling of e-waste. This bill passed the Assembly on a vote of 57 to 37. This bill passed in the Senate in June and will be submitted to Governor Doyle to be signed into law.

SB 123: Stop the Spread of Invasive, Aquatic Species
To stop the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels or noxious weeds in Wisconsin waterways, this bill clarifies current law on the removal of non-native species and gives the DNR enforcement options. This bill passed the Assembly on a vote of 58 to 36. This bill passed in the Senate in May and will now go to Governor Doyle to be signed into law.

AB 314: Regulation of the Use of Pesticides by Railroads
This bill prevents railroads from requiring employees to work in an area which has recently been treated with potentially-harmful pesticides, and ensures property owners directly adjacent to the railroad receive information about the pesticide use. This bill passed the Assembly on a vote of 69 to 26. This bill will next be assigned to a committee in the Senate.

For more information, please contact Representative Gordon Hintz at 608-266-2254.

Rep. Hintz to hold Office Hours

OSHKOSH- Representative Gordon Hintz will be holding office hours at the Oshkosh Senior Center to discuss issues important to Oshkosh residents. The event is open to the public and those with questions regarding state issues are encouraged to attend. (NOTE-this will end one hour earlier than regular office hours)

Anyone with questions or comments is encouraged to contact the office of Representative Hintz toll-free at 888-534-0054 or via e-mail at rep.hintz@legis.state.wi.us.

Who: Representative Gordon Hintz
What: Senior Center-Office Hours
When: Friday, September 25th 9:00am-11:00am
Where: Oshkosh Area Senior Center - 200 North Campbell Road

Friends of the Library offer used book sale, invite public to annual meeting

Variety is the order of the day at the Friends of the Library Used Book Sale, Sept. 29, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., in the lower level of the Oshkosh Public Library. Anyone interested in learning more about the Friends and the activities they do in support of the library is also invited to attend the group’s annual meeting and luncheon at the library on Oct. 24.

New titles on the history of war, an influx of romance novels and a small collection of nicely bound westerns have been added to the shelves for the Sept. 29 sale. There is a selection of new cookbooks, as well as books on animals and pet training. Reference books include sets of encyclopedias and Oshkosh city directories from the 1970s, ‘80s and ‘90s. Check out the extensive collection of Large Print books as well as children's books and graphic novels, audio books, DVDs and music CDs. Bargain book bags offer a mix of titles at one low price.

Mark your calendars for the final 2009 book sale on Nov. 24. Sales are scheduled for early 2010 on Jan. 26, March 30 and May 25.

Bags are in short supply right now, so the Friends ask that shoppers bring a reusable bag to carry their purchases. Canvas tote bags are available for purchase at the Friends Store at the library.

Proceeds from the book sales are used to support programs and initiatives of the Oshkosh Public Library throughout the year. During the current fiscal year, The Friends:

 Purchased prizes distributed through the summer reading program
 Sponsored programs and a special performance at the Leach Amphitheater for children who participate in the summer reading program
 Funded Baby Book Bags, which are distributed to all babies born in Oshkosh
 Purchased books for Oshkosh schools participating in the library’s Book Fest program
 Provided refreshments for special library programs

The Friends, who provide support for the library through volunteer service, fundraising, and advocacy, always welcome new members. Anyone interested in joining the Friends is invited to attend the group’s annual luncheon on Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to noon, at the Oshkosh Public Library. Learn more about the Friends and hear a library update from Library Director Jeff Gilderson-Duwe, with a tour of the building to follow. There is no fee for the luncheon, but a free will offering will be accepted. Deadline to register is Oct. 18. Registration forms are available at the library.

In addition to the book sale, Friends volunteers assist with the summer reading program, work in the library gift shop and support numerous efforts that promote literacy, preserve local history, and advocate for library services that enhance the quality of life in the Oshkosh community.

For additional information about the book sale or to join the Friends of the Library, contact Dana Stolley, Coordinator of Volunteers, at 236-5206.

October 13 Neighborhood Block Watch Program

[We have received this from a member of the Oshkosh Police Department and are pleased to publish it on their behalf.]

On Tuesday, October 13 at 6:30pm at Carl Traeger Middle School, there will be a city wide block watch meeting. Officer Gorte and Officer Vang will show the gang presentation, Alex Hummel from Christine Ann Center will present Domestic Abuse issues and a new program in conjunction with the police department and there will be a discussion on forming an executive board for neighborhood watch.

Joseph Nichols
Crime Prevention Officer
Oshkosh Police Department
Office: (920) 236-5742
Cell: (920) 379-3572
Fax: (920) 236-5743

P.S. Carl Traeger Middle School is located at 3000 W. 20th Av, Oshkosh.

Lambda Legal Joins Fair Wisconsin in Fight to Save Legal Protections for Same-Sex Couples and Their Families

15,000 Wisconsin Same-Sex Couples Need Domestic Partnership Law for Times of Illness and Crisis

(Madison, Wisconsin September 22, 2009) — In court papers filed today, Lambda Legal is seeking to intervene on behalf of Fair Wisconsin and its members in a lawsuit brought by an antigay group attempting to strip away newly enacted domestic partnership protections for same-sex couples and their families.

"There are almost 15,000 same-sex couples and their families living in Wisconsin who need the basic protections provided by domestic partnerships. The law is far from marriage equality, but it helps couples in times of illness and crisis,” said Christopher Clark, Senior Staff Attorney in Lambda Legal’s Midwest Regional Office based in Chicago. “We plan to vigorously defend the important legal protections that the legislature validly enacted to protect Wisconsin citizens."

"To suggest that these few protections granted to same-sex couples and their families resemble the much revered status of marriage is preposterous. The domestic partnership law and the constitutional amendment barring same-sex couples from marriage are not in conflict with each other," added Clark.

Fair Wisconsin, along with national and regional allies, recently helped enact these important domestic partnership protections for same-sex couples, the first piece of pro-fairness legislation in 27 years. Fair Wisconsin, the main opponents to the 2006 amendment banning marriage equality and civil unions, is doing everything it can to defend the new law.

"Domestic partnerships are an important step toward ensuring that someone in a caring, committed relationship is able to care for his or her partner,” said Katie Belanger, Executive Director of Fair Wisconsin. “No one should ever have to worry about being blocked at their partner’s hospital room door, or have to make the heartbreaking decision to quit their job in order to care for a seriously ill partner. This isn’t about being gay or straight—it’s about being decent."

The state passed a constitutional amendment in November 2006 that prohibits marriage for same-sex couples in Wisconsin and bars recognition of any legal status that is “substantially similar” to marriage. Earlier this year, on June 29, 2009, Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle signed domestic partnerships into law. Domestic partnerships grant limited, but important legal protections to same-sex couples, including hospital visitation and the ability to take a family medical leave to care for a sick or injured partner.


Wisconsin Family Action, an antigay group, filed a lawsuit against the state arguing that the domestic partnership law is a violation of the antigay constitutional amendment barring marriage equality. After the State Attorney General announced that his office would not defend the state against the claim, Governor Doyle appointed special counsel to represent the state.

Wisconsin was the first state in the union to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation in the workplace in 1982, but many members of the gay community wonder if this attack on the domestic partnership registry will mean a step back for fairness in their state. David Kopitze and Paul Klawiter, who have been together for nearly 40 years, are worried about what losing these basic protections might mean for their family.

Said Kopitze, "Since we can’t get married in Wisconsin, the domestic partnership registry provides us with a few fundamental protections that we need to take care of each other that married couples in Wisconsin can assume they will always have. Paul and I just want to make sure that we can visit each other in the hospital and take care of each other as we grow older."

ACLU also filed court papers today to intervene in the Appling v. Doyle case on behalf of seven same-sex couples. ACLU, like Lambda Legal, says domestic partnerships and marriages are not “substantially similar.”

Lambda Legal is a national organization committed to achieving full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and those with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work.

Fair Wisconsin, one of the state’s most respected advocacy groups, has a proud history in education, grassroots organizing, outreach, and political action in the cause of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) equality. With a statewide board of directors and a full-time staff, Fair Wisconsin is the only organization to represent the Badger state in the Equality Federation, the national alliance of state-based LGBT advocacy organizations. To learn more, visit www.fairwisconsin.com

Cluppert Joins Emergency Services Team at Red Cross

OSHKOSH, Wis., September 21, 2009 – The East Central Wisconsin Chapter is proud to announce Nick Cluppert has joined the team as the Emergency Services Manager. He brings local emergency planning skills along with national disaster experience, health & safety leadership and an overall passion for the American Red Cross. His on-going challenge will be to prevent, prepare for and respond to disasters.

As the Emergency Services Manager, his responsibilities include coordinating disaster services within the chapter’s eight county jurisdiction, mutual aid amongst the 19-county region, ensuring the Chapter’s disaster response plan is up-dated, forming community partnerships, budget management, and oversight of disaster action team volunteers.

Cluppert has three years of Red Cross experience, in which he thrived at the Badger Chapter based in Madison, WI. He began as the Readiness Specialist and was later promoted to Community Preparedness Specialist. His long-list of responsibilities at the Badger Chapter included working with disaster volunteers both locally and nationally, coordinating the Community Disaster Education Program, managing the Chapter’s International Services Program which included several important initiatives such as a measles initiative, malaria program, and tracing services. He also led the Chapter’s Chest Compression Only pilot program and University of Wisconsin-Madison Red Cross Club.

“Nick has consistently proven his capabilities so when this position became available; it was a natural next step. He has big shoes to fill, a huge role to play strategically for the region, and we’re thrilled to have him on our team!” exclaimed Steve Hansen, the Regional Chapter Executive.

Speaking of his new undertaking, he said he is most excited about getting to know the dedicated volunteers who respond to emergencies around the clock and wrapping his arms around the opportunities ahead such as increasing the Chapter’s capacity to respond to disasters. When asked about the biggest challenge he faces right now Cluppert stated, “Wrapping my arms around everything that is in place. I look forward to volunteer input to make emergency prevention, preparedness and response efficient and effective moving forward. He concluded by saying his most important responsibility is “ensuring Red Cross services are being offered and that we’re providing people with the best resources and customer experience we can.”

Cluppert is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin – River Falls where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in political science. He also received a Chancellor’s Award for community leadership and contribution. In his free time, he enjoyed serving on the Sauk-Prairie school board. He is the son of Laurie and David Cluppert and originally from Markesan, WI.

The East Central Wisconsin Chapter serves Florence, Green Lake, upper one-third of Marinette, Marquette, Waupaca, Waushara, and Winnebago Counties in Wisconsin, and Dickinson County, Michigan.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or our Regional web-site at www.NEWRedCross.org

Red Cross Research Finds 93% Public Taking Extra Steps against H1N1

With September designated as National Preparedness Month, recent surveys by the American Red Cross show that 93 percent of Americans were planning to take extra steps to avoid getting the H1N1 flu (swine flu) (1). However, only 12 percent of those surveyed had taken the steps the Red Cross recommends to prepare for a disaster.

Our six Chapters are urging local residents to make a renewed effort in September to prepare for a possible resurgence of the H1N1 flu this fall – and for other emergencies such as fires, floods or storms.

While you are your best defense against emergencies, the Red Cross can help you take simple steps to prepare yourself and your loved ones for emergencies ranging from severe weather to a flu outbreak. Several resources are available on our national www.redcross.org website.

The H1N1 flu survey, which was conducted in July by the Red Cross, found that more Americans are taking, or planning on taking, extra measures to cover their coughs and sneezes with tissues (78%) or wash their hands more carefully (76%) to avoid getting the flu compared to other preparedness actions. Less than half (46%) plan on assembling a two-week supply of food, water and medicine that they might need in the event they or someone in their family becomes sick and needs to stay home for an extended period of time.

The Red Cross recommends people take the following precautions to help guard against the flu:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
• Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds, with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home if you are feeling sick.

As for all emergencies, the Red Cross recommends people start by taking three actions to prepare for disasters:

• Get a kit: Assemble or purchase a portable emergency preparedness kit with enough supplies for three days in case you need to evacuate. The Red Cross also recommends having at least two weeks worth of supplies at home. Supplies should include water (one gallon, per person, per day), nonperishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra batteries, first aid kit, a 7-day supply of medications, a multi-purpose tool, sanitation and personal hygiene items and copies of important personal documents.
• Make a plan: Make sure each person knows how to reach household members, including an out-of-area emergency contact person, and knows where to meet if they can't go home.
• Be informed: Learn what resources are available and what types of disasters are most likely to occur where you live, learn, work and play. Take a first aid and CPR/AED course—a vital component of disaster preparedness in case emergency help is delayed.

The Red Cross created a free online education program to make it easier for people to get prepared. The Be Red Cross Ready program walks people through three key preparedness steps: getting an emergency kit, making an emergency plan and being informed and is available at www.redcross.org/BeRedCrossReady.

This September, the Red Cross joins the Department of Homeland Security’s Ready Campaign in celebrating National Preparedness Month. For more information about local activities during National Preparedness Month, contact the local Chapter or visit the regional web-site at www.NEWRedCross.org at by calling the Regional Headquarters at 920-231-3590. You can also purchase emergency preparedness and first aid items at www.RedCrossStore.org.

(1) H1N1 findings are based on a telephone survey of 1,002 U.S. adults 18 years and older conducted July 17-20, 2009 by CARAVAN® Opinion Research Corporation. The margin of error is +/- 3.1 percent. The general preparedness findings are based on an online survey of 1,306 U.S. residents 18 years and older conducted July 24-August 7, 2009 by Harris Interactive on behalf of the American Red Cross
(2) The general preparedness findings are based on an online survey of 1,306 U.S. residents 18 years and older conducted July 24-August 7, 2009 by Harris Interactive on behalf of the American Red Cross.


About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

Sen. Hopper Announces Office Hours

[Madison, Wisc…] State Senator Randy Hopper (R-Fond du Lac) today announced his latest session of district office hours to be held in Oshkosh on Friday, September 18, 2009.

WHAT: Constituent Office Hours

WHEN: Friday, September 18, 2009
9:00am to 11:00am

WHERE: Oshkosh Senior Center
South Building
Willow South Room
200 N Campbell Road, Oshkosh

No RSVP’s are required to attend office hours. If constituents have any questions beforehand, they are encouraged to contact Sen. Hopper’s office toll-free at 888-736-8720 or by completing an online constituent form at www.senatorhopper.com.

Shelter Trek Goes Howlywood

Join Us at Menominee Park for Shelter Trek Goes Howlywood
Saturday, September 12, 2009

On Saturday, September 12, Menominee Park is going to the dogs for Shelter Trek Goes Howlywood. This annual event is the biggest flindraiser of the year for OAHS and it’s a great way for dogs and their families to strut their stuff along the scenic lakeshore and have lots of fun for a great cause!

>Here are just some of the things you won’t want to miss:
* Pet Contests, including best bark, best trick, best tail wag and best costume.
* A FREE photograph of you and your pet.
* Games and prizes for both pets and people including Lure Coursing, the Radar Run, Agility, and Dive for a Duck! Basket Raffles too!

When you raise a minimum of $150 in pledges. we’ll waive the $25 registration fee!

Registration begins at 8 a.m. All registrants receive a free Shelter Trek t-shirt, snacks and water, a photo and entry into the pet contests.

Want a quick and simple way to earn pledges? Just go to www.firstgiving.com/28951 and click on “Make your own flmndraising page for the Oshkosh Area Humane Society - the site walks you through how to set up your own page—anyone can do it! Then just send it by e-mail to your friends and family and they can simply donate online and the money comes straight to OARS - it doesn’t get easier than that!

Don’t want to wait in line to register on Saturday? You can get a chance to win a $150 JC Penney gift card when you pre-register on Wednesday. September 9, or Thursday, September 10, noon to 8 p.m., at OAHS.

Click here for more information and a pledge form. Questions? Contact Cheryl at cheryl@oahs.org. We hope to see you there!

Men Still Cooking: Celebrity Chef Night at Becket's, Sept. 22

This year's dynamic and delicious Men Who Cook for Christine Ann took place in June, generating an amazing surge of support for Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services.

But dinner's not done. Men are still cooking, and they are ready to whip up another masterpiece to support our mission to end domestic abuse. Your job? Simply make a reservation, invite your family and friends and enjoy the meal!

You're invited to join Christine Ann and all of our supporters at Becket's Restaurant on the riverfront in Oshkosh on Sept. 22. Three volunteer chefs will don aprons and make an encore appearance as part of Becket's Celebrity Chef night. We call it "Men Still Cooking."

Chefs Marcus Butts, Jeremy Monnett and Randy Schmiedel have planned a creative, one-of-a-kind menu and are taking over Becket's kitchen (with a little help from Chef Mike).

Help us pack Becket's, and we guarantee you and your friends will be dazzled by our volunteer chefs' three-course meal. Thanks to Becket's, partial proceeds each of our chefs' dinners sold that evening will directly benefit Christine Ann.

Here's a peak at the menus:

* You'll enjoy a trio appetizer of barbeque shrimp, bacon and ham stuffed shells and cream cheese stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon all on a bed of lettuce.
* That segues into the entrée: Cajun pork with a side of potatoes, butternut squash and asparagus.
* Top that off with a surefire dessert hero: Homemade turtle cheesecake.
* And the ENTIRE three-course meal costs only $25. Again, Becket's will give a portion of the proceeds to our support our vital mission.

The specialty cocktail for the evening will be the "John Daly," in your choice of three flavors: original, raspberry or peach. A special wine selection complementing the dinner will also be available.

We want to pack Becket's on Sept. 22. So, make a reservation right now by calling Becket's at 920-230-3333. Our goal is to break the current Celebrity-Chef-night record of 120 meals.

Invite your friends and family and spread the word. We promise fine dining for a fine cause.

Wisconsin Vision Featured in 2009 Labor Day List

[We have received the following press release and are pleased to publish it for our readers on the sender's behalf.]

(Washington, DC) – Companies across the nation are weathering our economic storm by working closer and harder than ever with their strongest asset – their employees. In observance of Labor Day, the American Rights at Work Education Fund publicizes successful union and management partnerships in its fifth annual Labor Day List: Partnerships that Work. New Berlin-based Wisconsin Vision, Inc., is one of the companies recognized this year for its dedication to providing sustainable wages and family-friendly benefits, respecting workers’ rights and decisions to form unions, and speaking out on the need for others to follow suit. Wisconsin Vision, like all of the companies featured in the report, supports the Employee Free Choice Act, legislation that protects workers and enables long-term growth for American businesses.

The List is available at: www.AmericanRightsatWork.org

“Labor Day List employers like Wisconsin Vision show that productive labor relations benefit workers, their families, and the company’s bottom line,” says Kimberly Freeman, Acting Executive Director of the American Rights at Work Education Fund. She adds, “Without a doubt, economic success does not have to come at the expense of workers’ rights. That’s why we chose to showcase companies that have demonstrated their unyielding support for the Employee Free Choice Act, which is fundamental to rebuilding our economy and empowering workers to achieve the American Dream.”

Wisconsin Vision operates full-service optical eye care centers throughout the Midwest. Established in 1978, the eye care provider’s 130 union employees formed a union with the United Food and Commercial Workers, a choice respected by their employer. As a result, they earn salaries above the industry averages, have access to health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits. They also are guaranteed paid vacation, sick days, and family and medical leave.

Darren Horndasch, President of Wisconsin Vision, believes, “If our employees are happy and knowledgeable, they are going to have a great interaction with patients. That’s great for business because it builds relationships with our patients.” Horndasch has publicly supported the Employee Free Choice Act to show that entrepreneurs and small businesses can benefit from such productive partnerships when workers are given a free choice to form a union.

Other employers profiled include American Income Life Insurance Company (Waco, TX), Ivory Leathers, Inc. (West Fargo, ND), Morton Williams Supermarkets (New York, NY), McGuire Scenic (Indianapolis, IN), Print & Copy Center (Verona, PA), Raymond’s Painting and Decorating, Inc. (Denver, CO), and West Sheet Metal Company (Sterling, VA).

Wisconsin Vision represents a growing community of responsible businesses that play by the rules, and want policies that encourage others to do so as well, so they’re not competing on an unlevel field. According to Freeman,“Measures like the Employee Free Choice Act will give more workers a choice to join unions, giving them the financial means to support the small businesses that help drive the engine of our economy.”

The 2009 Labor Day List: Partnerships that Work is a project of the American Rights at Work Education Fund’s Socially Responsible Business Program. For a complete copy of the report, visit www.americanrightsatwork.org.

###

American Rights at Work Education Fund — www.americanrightsatwork.org — is an educational and outreach organization dedicated to promoting the freedom of workers to form unions and bargain collectively.

Help Obama Change America

[We have received the following from One Wisconsin Now and are pleased to pass it along to our readers.]

Dear Friend,

With Congress reconvening next week and progressive values under attack in Washington, what can you do to help?

Click the following to buy a copy of "50 Ways You Can Help Obama Change America" which debuts in bookstores across the country this week:
• Amazon
• Barnes & Noble
• Indiebound (links to independent bookstores in your area)

To help President Obama pass health care reform, enact his other core campaign promises, and move the country forward, we are collecting individual ideas and stories on how to help President Obama change America, for the better:
www.50WaysYouCanHelpObama.com

We are honored that the late Senator Ted Kennedy endorsed 50 Ways:
"In 50 Ways You Can Help Obama Change America, Michael Huttner and Jason Salzman have given us a practical handbook on how every American can do something for our country. This book should be required reading for anyone interested in making a difference and helping President Obama get our nation back on track."

We will provide prizes for many of you who enter your story and/or your ideas on how to change this country including a grand-prize of a trip for two to Honolulu, Hawaii for a private tour of the hospital where President Obama was born, followed by an opportunity to take part in a community service project there on MLK Day of Service, January 18, 2010.

Send us your stories by September 30. The winners will be announced on November 4, 2009 - one year to the day that Obama gave his memorable victory speech in Chicago.

Visit www.50WaysYouCanHelpObama.com or join us on Facebook at Help Obama Change America as we highlight with the national media what people are doing to help take advantage of an appetite for change unlike anything we've seen in our lifetimes.

Sincerely,
Michael Huttner
Founder, ProgressNow
Author, 50 Ways You Can Help Obama Change America
# # #
Praise for 50 Ways You Can Help Obama Change America:
"In 50 Ways You Can Help Obama Change America, Michael Huttner and Jason Salzman have given us a practical handbook on how every American can do something for our country. This book should be required reading for anyone interested in making a difference and helping President Obama get our nation back on track."
--The late Senator Edward M. Kennedy
-----------------------------------
"Paul Simon gave us 50 ways to leave your lover. Huttner and Salzman give us 50 ways to leave your country a better place. A remarkably useful resource."
--Arianna Huffington, Founder and Editor in Chief, The Huffington Post
----------------------------------
"The historic election of President Obama marks a new chapter in American history, but it's only the beginning. This book offers every American straightforward ways to help bring real, lasting change."
--Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards
----------------------------------
"This up-to-date guide for the hands-on activist is a must-have blue-print for every supporter who answered Barack Obama's phrase, 'Fired up,' with 'Ready to go!'"
--Markos Moulitsas Zuniga, Founder, Daily Kos
--------------------------------
"Obama is an opportunity, not our solution. He'll succeed in Washington only if we the people get organized, hit the streets, and demand change. This book explains how you can do your part."
--Ben Cohen, Co-Founder, Ben and Jerry's
--------------------------------
"One way to keep America changing and stimulate the economy is advancing the arts...and in this new era of technology, new media, and the new world of how information is shared...a new "art form" needs to be developed...This book provides simple ways to use the arts and other means for making change."
-- Will.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas
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"During his campaign, Obama empowered all of us to take part in initiating change, and it's imperative that we keep the momentum going by involving the next generation. This book is a great resource to encourage young people to embrace their civic responsibilities."
-- Actress Jessica Alba

Labor Day picnic invite extended to to general public

The Winnebago County Labor Council invites you to join them in celebrating Labor in our Community. The annual Labor Day picnic will be at South Park starting at 11am and running until 5pm. The family event features food, music, raffles and guest speakers. The Car Show starts at 10am and runs until 4pm. Classic cars from area car clubs and vehicles used in the movie “Public Enemy” and been invited to show off at the event.

OASD Press Release - Obama Speech

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information contact:
Dr. Bette Lang
Interim Superintendent of Schools
Oshkosh Area School District
(920) 424]0160

The President of the United States will be speaking to students live on television on Tuesday, September 8, 2009. We understand that his presentation to students will occur at 11:00 a.m. and will last approximately fifteen to twenty minutes. The district has received inquiries as to how this event will be managed within our schools. Teachers may be viewing this presentation with their students on that day. The entire speech will be posted on www.whitehouse.gov on Monday to give parents the opportunity to view
the speech before it is delivered to Americafs students.

In the event parents prefer that their children have an alternate activity planned, they are asked to contact their childfs principal Tuesday morning, September 8, 2009.

Governor Doyle Announces $50 Million for Health Care Expansion for the Uninsured

MADISON - Governor Jim Doyle today announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration has awarded the state a total of $50 million to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to build on the success of BadgerCare Plus.

“Each day in Wisconsin, one of our friends, loved ones or neighbors is gambling with their health,” Governor Doyle said. “They may be sick or injured, but don’t go to a doctor because they do not have insurance. We’ve taken this issue head-on in Wisconsin to help make us a national leader on health care reform. This grant will help us continue our efforts and do what’s right for the people in our state.”

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services will receive a new State Health Access Program (SHAP) grant in $10 million increments over a five-year period to assist in providing additional members the benefits available to them within the BadgerCare Plus Core Plan for Adults with No Dependent Children. SHAP grants were awarded to 13 states, including Wisconsin, to help provide affordable insurance or implement new initiatives to reach the uninsured.

All of the states awarded a grant must show that they are able to sustain the program after federal funding has expired. The impact and results of state projects will be reported to Congress at the end of the grant period.

The other 12 states receiving the grant include Colorado, Kansas, Maine, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia.

For more information about BadgerCare Plus, visit www.badgercareplus.org.