Karen Land & Borage at the Library

Karen Land gave a great talk at the library Saturday morning. Her dog Borage waited for treats and wandered the the shelves looking for a good read.

Nortons Opens Tonight

For those of you have missed your regular watering hole Norton's they open tonight, Friday, April 17th. Welcome back Mike!

Recount

There was a city recount for Luann Mirr's seat on the city council. The outcome was the same.

Annual "Weiner Open" Memorial Tournament, May 31

The First "Weiner Open" in memory of Wayne Sonntag will May 31st. Wayne was the father of Lynn Mirr and Don and Doug Sonntag. He was very active in local community affairs for many years and was a great support to the city. They are having an 18 hole scramble at Lawsonia on Memorial Day Weekend, May 31st. Registration begins at 9:00AM. All proceeds are going to the Green Lake/Brooklyn Fire Dept. It is $95 for entry, including dinner at Norton's. Deadline for entry is May 18, 2009. You can get entry forms at Adam's Rib and Walker's and Norton's starting today.

You may also just click on the application on the right and print it out.

Is the The Lake Level Low?

I heard the lake is currently down about 6 inches. Are the mayor or director of public works going to put in any boards in the dam soon? Who actually is in charge of this? I've already heard that a few people are having a problem getting their boats in.

Karen Land @ the Library April 18

Karen Land who has run in the Itarod Race three times will be here with one of her dogs Saturday, April 18th at 10:00 am. She will be giving a talk about the race and I think this will be one of the most interesting talks the library has this year.

Town of Brooklyn Election Results

Green Lake School Board
Reabe 246
Sandberg 211
King 159
Grim 225

Town of Brooklyn Seats

Rouse 314
Petttack 348
Triemstra 385
Schwarz 251
Reabe 372

This makes Rouse, Pettack, Triemstra and Reabe the new Town of Brooklyn reps. Mike Weust was re-elected with 448 votes.

Just as a side note I found it interesting there were several write in votes for other people, including 3 for Mary Rowley for the Township. She also got one write-in for the School Board. She lives in the City not the Township. She wouldn't be eligible for he Township post no matter how many votes she got. And Sidney Rouse got 3 write in votes for the Township and she was even on the ballot. Yikes. What does this say for the educated voter, folks..? I guess I should just be happy people vote.

City of Green Lake Elections Results

These are the vote totals for the City of Green Lake. I haven't gotten the Town of Brooklyn results yet.

#1 Rowley 54
Meagher 23

#2 Jones 60
Mirr-Frank 45

#3 Parise 77
Wagner 53

For the School Board Elections, these are the City Totals without the Town of Brooklyn but I do know who won the outcome already without the other townships. The top two are Grim and Reabe.

Grim 163
Reabe 141
Sandberg 140
King 128

Look carefully at the vote total between for Reabe and Sandberg. For those of you who didn't feel like voting keep your mouth shut when you feel like complaining about school issues in the coming cycle. Your vote counts more than you know in local elections.

Watching the Cubs Game

Its the bottom of the ninth, Cubs and Houston tied. I am trying to find election results for this blog so I can post Green Lake County election results. It is about 10pm on Tuesday. Just for the boredom of the whole process I checked out the Ripon Mayor's Blog. He already has the local election results posted. It is the definition of transparency in government. Really nice. Where does he get the results so quickly? I wish I had that easy access to results and why don't we..

State Supreme Court Race

Assuming Shirley Abrahamsom lives long enough it looks like she will be our longest serving Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice ever. She will be 85 at the next race. And Tony Evers will be our State School Superintendent.

BPWC Flower Sale, May 9, 2009

The Business and Professional Women's Club is having its annual flower sale Sat. May 9 from 9-noon at the Chamber of Commerce Parking lot. They are offering 10" hanging baskets for $20.00/basket or $25 gift certificates redeemable at Stuart's Landscaping in Princeton. They have great selection from impatiens and begonias to geraniums. Order ahead of time and pick them up on that Saturday. They won't have a lot for sale that day but are taking orders now. Karla Spinks can probably help if you have any problems trying to order or contact the Chamber of Commerce. This the same group that puts up the flower boxes around town and this is a GREAT price but you need to order now!

Once upon a time the Chamber had a flower sale? Where is it?

Tomorrow, April 7th, Election Day!!!!

OK all you people out there with no opinion. Just a reminder that tomorrow is election day. Beside the local elections there are two state elections for Supreme Court and Dept. of Education. Get out and VOTE!

School Board Elections

The following people are running for the Green Lake School Board:

1. Sandburg
2. Reabe
3. Meade
4. King

Have at it everyone!

Town of Brooklyn Elections

In the town of Brooklyn Elections we have the following five people running for four seats in the township.

1. Mark Pettack
2. Harley Reabe
3. Sydney Rouse(incumbent)
4. Thomas Schwarz
5. Ron Triemstra

City Elections

I know people were looking for a new post on the elections but I thought I would wait until April Fool's Day to start a new post. I think seven days is plenty of time for people to have a "discussion" regarding the election issues. First off is the city elections. We have the following people running:

1. Rowley vs. Meagher
2. Mirr-Frank vs. Jones
3. Parise vs. Wagner

In full disclosure Joe Parise came and talked to me recently. We have had a few issues with things in the past(this blog for one). And he kindly told me how he didn't really like me. (Another person to add to the list) But I appreciated the fact that he did come and talk to me and I agree with some of you out there who think he has a confrontational style. He can be a bull in a china shop. I think as Mayor it might have been a little much for people but I think being on the council might be good for the community. He DOES bring up questions no one else will ask; DOES keep in contact with our state Representatives; DOES wonder if anyone is going after any stimulus money for local projects. I wonder if anyone else is actively doing these things for the town? I don't think so, but Donna Moore, I know you check in with this blog. Is there anyone doing this? Because these things do need to be done and I think in Parise's defense he goes after this stuff that local government needs. You can't just elect citizens and sit back expect things to happen. It just doesn't work. For government to work it needs people like Parise to hound others. As a mayor I am not sure that style was the best for the town. As a council person it could have a whole other effect for the city. He might keep the council on its toes and he can vote on the issues. He does care about the city.

Big News! Lawsonia Update!!!

Finally, after 60 years as a public course, and probably the only one in the USA that didn't have beer, Lawsonia Golf Course is going to have beer service. It's about time. If they had started doing this a long time ago they wouldn't be have gotten into the financial bind they were and we might not have had to go through all these development issues. I don't know if they are serving hard liquor but they are going to have a beverage cart. It will probably be the Baptist version of a nun so you get beer and a lecture.

New Layout

I like to test out new layouts. I get bored. What can I say, its GL in the winter. For those of you who follow this there is a way to subscribe at the bottom of the page so you know when there are updates. Please feel free to give me your opinion.

I Think We Have Covered This Already

I received the following press release from a reader.

These women seem to be covering the same downtown issues as the Ad Hoc committee currently called the Green Lake Organization. The Ad Hoc committee met regularly for a couple of years and are the current sponsors of the Soccer Camp this summer. What I think the women are in the press release are doing is a laudable effort but they might want to check at the library for the Ad Hoc Committee report and see what ground has been covered. This effort seems as though it might be redundant. This may be a reason things don't always get done here. Just more committees. If Mary Rowley is running for city office she should be aware of things like the Ad Hoc Committee currently the Green Lake Committee. It was a pretty big thing in the paper for a while and the current members of the Ad Hod committee are listed on the soccer camp posting.

Green Lake, WI – March 20, 2009

A new group has recently formed in Green Lake called the Downtown Green Lake Renewal Project Inc. Mary-Jo Johnson of the McConnell Inn, Mary Rowley of the Goose Blind and Jo Ellen Madden, neighbor and Green Lake homeowner met out of concern for the health of our downtown. They are neighborhood friends who have a passion for the community and want to see Green Lake thrive as it once had.

Their initial step was to read and discuss the book Boomtown USA, 7½ Keys to Big Success in Small Towns written by Jack Schultz. Using this as a springboard they have established the Downtown Green Lake Renewal Project Inc. and have 501(c)3 status to accept tax-free donations. Their mission statement is “Working towards the revitalization of downtown Green.”

It is their intention to assess and build on the strengths of Green Lake by adopting a can-do attitude, leverage local resources, and encouraging an entrepreneurial attitude. The first thing the Renewal Project team is doing is surveying Green Lake High School alumni for their opinions on the strengths and weaknesses of Green Lake. This is one of the components of the 7½ Keys in making Green Lake a successful small town.

“This town is a fabulous place in which to raise children and run a business. We hope to use the natural resource of beautiful Green Lake to boost the economy of our downtown which in turn will help keep our schools thriving,” Mary-Jo Johnson said.

As a downtown business owner, Mary Rowley has been hosting Webinars on revitalizing Wisconsin’s downtowns put on by the UW-Extension. “I am excited for the opportunity to create an atmosphere and culture for positive change for the Green Lake downtown. Through our Renewal Project we will be encouraging broad community collaboration. As we all know, it takes a village.”

As stated in Boomtown USA “Small towns are more exciting places to live in than big cities. More is at stake each day and each citizen plays a part. EVERYONE makes a difference in some way. And no matter what their individual talents, ideas, or capabilities, all citizens can contribute a CAN-DO attitude.”

“I grew up in a small town similar to Green Lake and my family has been visiting Green Lake for 18 years from Chicago. It is so refreshing to return to the simple pleasures of small town living and becoming part of a wonderful community. I appreciate all that Green Lake has to offer!” exclaimed Jo Ellen Madden.

Together these three women are dedicated to working towards the revitalization of downtown Green Lake. If you are interested in contacting the team, please email them at greenlakerenewal@gmail.com or drop them a note to PO Box 302 Green Lake WI 54941.

Discover Wisconsin at Thrasher Opera House

The Wisconsin Public Television show Discover Wisconsin will be featuring Green Lake in the near future. The debut of the the show will be at the Thrasher Opera House this Tuesday night and open to the public. I think it is free at 7:00.

Wind Farm in Green Lake Area

There was a front page article in the Ripon paper regarding the possibility of a wind farm on the border of the Green Lake County/Fond du Lac County line. It would be built by Alliant Energy, currently in production stages on a farm in Minnesota. It is in a very preliminary stage for the Green Lake area at this point but seems we have "good" wind around here. (insert wind bag jokes here)

Local Employment

I heard the foundry in Berlin has laid off half the staff this week, which is approximately 150 people out of a job.

New Parking Lot in Town

I understand that the old Condon's lot at the corner of Lake and South Street is going to be a new parking lot. It should be final at the end of the month. It'll be good to have that in town. More room for boat trailers, etc. this summer.

Catsino NIght at Ripon College, March 28

There is fundraiser for animal shelters a Ripon College Great Hall on March 28. It is a casino(catsino) night with gambling games. I went last year and had a great time and it was a great way to raise money. The room is pretty great also. The light were too bright but oh well, can't really complain about that....

General Blog Information

Someone asked how to remove a post if they wanted to do so. The answer is people who comment on here cannot remove a post once it is "out there" on the blog. I am the administrator of the Blog and only I can remove a post once it is posted. Another reason to think before you post.

Also, someone else asked about the ads. That is just me fooling around with templates and layouts. The ads come up through this system. It is just part of the process. Sorry about that but advertising is everywhere now. The way of the world.

If local businesses advertised with Google through a program called "Adwords" the local ads would start showing up here. Google the topic "Adwords" for more information on how this system works.

I like to see if there changes or updates in tech I like the look of on the blog. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. What can I say. It is what it is.

Also I get suggestions for blog postings from people so I am going to occasionally just post a heading for a topic people would like to see discussed.

As for local establishments, if you are having an event you would like to see posted on here you can always just email me. The address is up in the right corner of the Blog.

Thanks,
The Chief

Happy St. Pats

Be sure to go out support all the local restaurants by having Corned Beef and Cabbage Tuesday. It couldn't be easier to help stimulate the local economy.

More Ice Regatta Photos

Once again, Thanks Drew!
For race results or more pictures go to:
http://www.iceboat.org/seasons/08-09/isa/index.html

Put Some County Propety to Better Use

A suggestion was made to me about the use of local county land for entertainment uses, specifically a water park. The area suggested was the land we use for the Green Lake County Junior Free Fair. Most of the land around the county building is not used for most of the year. We probably could have used this land for the new Court House Building nobody seems to want. (See below, Your Tax $$$ at work) As an alternative it has been suggested we might want to put this land to a more productive use of the land. Personally, I still think the old Court House would be a great Casino. Give the land back to the Native Americans. (Maybe they will sell cheap cigarettes)

Soccer Camp June 29-July 2

There is a going to be a soccer camp this summer, sponsored by the Green Lake Organization. The Green Lake Organization(GLO) was formed by the former Ad Hoc Committee of Green Lake. They are trying to organize events that don't rely on government and bring some positive change to the community. The members are Maureen Martin, Co-Chair, Christine Seno, Co-Chair, Dusty Walker, Secretary, Ken Bates, Tim Jankowski, Tom Jones, Joann LaMire and Jeff Shadic.

The first event they are sponsoring is a soccer camp from June 29 to July 2 under the direction of Scott Haywood. It is for ages 4-18 years old and is $65. If you have children or grandchildren who will be in the area "and are bored" this is a great time to get them signed up for this terrific event.

For an application contact them at the following places:

Contacts:

greenlakeorganization@yahoo.com

or

Green Lake Organization
P.O. Box 504
Green Lake, WI 54941

Ice Boats On the Inlet of Green Lake, WI

Your tax $$$ at work!

The Work on the New County Courthouse with our new local business of prisoner warehousing.

Green Lake School Board Elections

This is an area to post your feelings on the school board elections so the other comment boards won't get so cluttered.

I believe there are four people running:

Emmett Sandburg
Harley Reabe
Grime Meade
Celeste King

I think.

Town of Brooklyn Elections

I don't know who is running in the Town of Brooklyn elections. I don't think Sue McConnell is returning. Is Sydney Rouse up for election?

City of Green Lake Elections

The elections are in the first half of April. The second Tuesday maybe? I know Joe Parise is running for City Council in the 3d district against Wagner. In the 2nd district Luann Frank is running against Tom Jones. Whoever is running in the 1st(Larry MacIntyre's seat) is unopposed I believe. What else is out there?

Ice Club Regatta March 13 and 14th

There are going to be ice boat races on the lake tomorrow(Friday) and Saturday with participants from all over. If you haven't had the chance to see ice boats in action now is the time. The boats included are the Skeeter and Knight classes. I don't know if DN will be included. Ice boating can be pretty exciting to watch(if the wind cooperates)and great for the photographers out there. The boats will be using the inlet as the home base. I believe the Ice Yacht Club will have people there selling Chili. For those of you old enough to remember, in 1963 ABC Wild World of Sports was here film a regatta. It was pretty great.

Wisconsin Recovery Bill Websites

For a couple of websites that try to focus on the help Wisconsin may be getting the recovery/stimulus package.

This is from Senator Feingold's office and is located at:
http://feingold.senate.gov/recovery

One set up by the Federal Government is www.recovery.gov. This focuses on the country as a whole, not just the state. According to this site Wisconsin will be getting about 70,000 jobs from the bill.

There is also a State of Wisconsin website:
www.recovery.wisconsin.gov.

Boys Basketball

The boys high school team lost last night. End of the road I guess.

Enough Already

I don't really care that much what people post on here when they are considered opinions. Calling other posters idiots is not necessary. I will delete them. I haven't changed the sign in so far to let people post anonymously. I feel it gives people a venue to speak out. I may change this if it becomes necessary.

Daylight Savings

Sunday is the day to spring forward. Set you clocks accordingly.

Green Lake Boys Basketball

The boys high school basketball team beat Rio last night. I think the score was 49-46. They now go on to play Fall River. Tomorrow night is the last game of the regionals. If they win they the next step is regional finals. I think the regional finals are against Randolf.

Dog Park

Under the commentary for the Disk Park there is a suggestion for a dog park which I think is a great idea. I know there is one in Ripon but it is not easily accessible. I would love to see one around here. What do you think?

Land Use and Planning Commission Mtg

There is a County Land Use and Planning Commission meeting on Thursday, Feb. 26. I'm not sure where the meeting is being held at the moment. It can determine the direction of the county in the next 30 years and if you don't go you will be the same people who go to ABA development meetings or Nortons sale meeting too late and wonder what happened.

Norton's on TV Sunday last Sunday AM

Norton's was on WFRV on Sunday morning promoting the area. If you missed it here is the link to the page.

Thanks, Mike


http://www.wfrv.com/content/news/sundaymorning/default.aspx

Green Lake Disc Golf @ Zobel Park

There is a group trying to install a disc golf and handicap accessible park at Zobel Park. For those of you unfamiliar with disc golf it is a game played with Frisbees instead of a golf ball. There are tournaments all over the country and we have several local players.

For those of you who might be interested in donating I've put a Pay Pal button on the right. For those of you who would rather send a check this is the address:

Oshkosh Community Foundation
Green Lake Zobel Park Recreational Fund
404 N. Main Street #205
Oshkosh, WI 54901

Make checks payable to Green Lake Zobel Park Rec Fund

All donations are tax deductible.

Thanks for your support!
For those who would like more information you can email
nathanomirr@hotmail.com

Sky Views of Lake 2-18-09

I'd like to thank Drew Vandervelde for the photos.

School Board Elections

Harley, Meade and Emmett are the top three in the school board elections.

Green Lake Basketball

I've heard the mayor won't be coaching the basketball team anymore?

Tomorrow Are The Primary Elections!

Don't forget to vote in the primary elections Tuesday. Especially for all you people with school board concerns.

Sports News

Green Lake High School Boys lost to Lourdes by one point last night in the last few seconds of the game. Green Lake Grade School Girls beat Markesan this morning.

How's The Fishing?

The Walkers Fisheree is this weekend. How's everybody doing? What is the ice like? Who's winning? There were 212 entered in the contest. I know Jay Kramer did pretty well. How was everybody else?

Feb 17th Elections.

I'm falling down on the job here. Thanks for reminding me to post this. I meant to do it a while ago. I'm getting a little worn down on the school and property stuff.

Anyway, there are elections coming up for the school board. I am not sure what else there is. There were interviews in the Green Lake and Ripon papers with the candidates.

Area Unemployment Stats

This is information is from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This area currently has an unemployment rate of about %5.9, ending December 2008, for the Fond du Lac Area which is the closest to the Green Lake area that are currently on record. The national unemployment figures came out today.

I am just wondering what is going on out there with local jobs and how secure people feel about their jobs right now.

Green Lake State Bank

Did anybody see this article in the Milwaukee Journal from last week? The Baraboo Bank, parent company of the Green Lake State Bank got $20.7 million from the TARP bailout from the federal government.

http://www.jsonline.com/business/38164349.html

City of Green Lake Police/Winn Collins on TV

I think the city of Green Lake is lucky to have the police they do. They do their job with common sense and serve the town very well. That seems to be a rare thing these days. Mostly the police just seem to out to "raise" money for the town budget without regard to individuals. I recently heard the local Princeton police get $4 dollars/hour more than the City of Green Lake police. I realize there budget constraints but when and if there is any money around I think these guys deserve a raise.

Sunday morning Winn Collins was on Wisconsin Public TV talking about the need for funding from the state for more DA assistance. He did a nice job. Good work Winn.

Lindenwood Development & The School

There seems to be a big discussion under another post regarding the land use issue with the new development at the ABA. You might want to start posting that issue here.

Who Remembers When You Could Drink All Night for a $1.50?

Who could forget Mary Jane and look at the phone number!

A Truck through the Ice Monday

I heard a truck went through the ice just below Sandstone this morning. Apparently it was 5 Ripon college students. People who don't know the lake don't know there are currents under the bluff that keep spots from freezing solidly. As they used to say on Hill Street Blues, "Be careful out there guys!"

School Sports Programs

Whatever happened with meeting regarding the sports programs being shared with Markesan? I haven't heard much but I am sure some of you out there know.

Do you know these women or where this picture was taken?

One of the reasons I started blogging was because of the historical aspects of the area I could put online. I never really intended to become the online Sound Off column. I do like the fact that people have a place to vent and let off steam though.

So in that vein I posted this picture because I thought some people would get some amusement from this blog other than complaining about the Christmas Tree lights or the neighbors dog, etc. These ladies were all very involved in community from the 1920's on. One of them recently died at 104 in Ripon. Have fun seeing if you know who they are.

Upcoming Local Elections

Someone has asked me to create a spot for local elections. I guess it isn't too soon for that so here it is. Have a Better New Year than last!

How's The Ice?

I was wondering how the ice is for fishing? There are a lot more shantys on the ice right now.

Another Sign of the Booming Economy

I hear Heidel House is going to be closing its dining rooms on Wednesdays and Thursdays through April. I don't remember this ever happening as long as it has been around since the late 40's.

School Board Meeting

I think there is a school board meeting tonight, Wednesday. There is supposed to be a discussion of merging sports events with Markesan. Is this true? I haven't seen an agenda so I don't know. And when is the meeting that was cancelled about the purchase of Sunnyside acreage?

Its TAX time!

I'm hearing from people their taxes are going down. Anybody going up?

Tree Lighting

There is a Christmas Tree lighting in downtown GL tonight.

Chamber of What Again?

What is it with the Chamber of Commerce here? They seem to deny commerce instead of encourage it. We've cancelled Winter Fest. There was no "Christmas in Green Lake".

They have had a contest for businesses in town for the one with the best decorations every year. Fine idea but there are about 3 businesses in town. Why not try this instead? Have a contest for the best decorated house in town. Give a nice large prize. Like $250. Something. People would would want to win so they would decorate. Other people in the surrounding area would come to see the decorations. They might spend money at local watering holes. As more and more people decorated the houses maybe more people would come. The Chamber seems to have the idea that they need to please the local businesses without encouraging local business. They have more committees than they can count which micro-manage the director. I think they should just cancel the fire works now for the 4th of July because they aren't going to make any money on it. We should just all go to Heidel House. Just cancel everything.

Sad Loss for the Community

Del Formiller died yesterday, Dec. 7th at 90 years old. Del had a long Green Lake history running the Holiday House on Spring Grove Road where the current condos are located. He was quite a character and a dear friend. I am sure Thelma Markham will miss her library cribbage partner. He knew some great Green Lake stories.

For those of you who didn't know Del you may know who he was by the motorized scooter he rode around town in the last few years.

I don't know if or when there will be memorial services.

Bye Del and save a place at the big chowder cookout.

Current City Hall Issues as of Dec. 10

There was a request for an open forum space which I don't really specifically on this site but here is space for you to discuss the most recent city hall meeting.

School Closings for Tuesday Dec. 8

Algoma Neighborhood Watch Holiday Social
Postponed until January 13
Berlin Area Schools Public and Parochial
Closed Tuesday
Bethany Lutheran-Manitowoc Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Boy Scouts of America-Bay Lakes Tuesday CSI Event
Postponed to Dec. 16
Clintonville Schools Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Door County Leadership Class Tuesday Class
Cancelled
Door County Learning and Retirement Holiday Social
Rescheduled for Dec. 16
Fox Cities Performing Arts Center Tues. Ringing In The Season
Performance Postponed to 12/16
Gamblers Celebrity Waiter Dinner Postponed until
Dec. 16 at 6pm
Green Lake Schools Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Immanuel Lutheran - Manitowoc Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Lakepark Swim and Fitness Opening at 1:00 PM
Manitowoc 1st German Lutheran Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Manitowoc Lutheran Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Manitowoc Schools Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Omro Schools Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Play and Learn Preschool-Clintonville Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Ripon Schools Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Roncalli High School-Manitowoc Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Rosendale-Brandon Schools Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
St. Joseph Church In Oneida Closed
Mass cancelled and office closed
State of Wisconsin Tues. 'Doing Business' Workshop
and LWCB mtg. at Radisson Cancelled
Tigerton Schools Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Two Rivers Schools Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
UW Manitowoc Opening 4 hours late
Tuesday, December 9th
Winnebago Lutheran Academy Closed
Tuesday, December 9th
Winneconne Schools Closed
Tuesday, December 9th

Blog Feeds & You Tube

If you will notice I have added blogs to the right dealing with The Packers and Brewers news for those of you who want to follow current news on your teams. Just click on the link and it will take you them. I am going to start a new blog soon on stories of local families. I have also added a YouTube feed of dogs and cats just for the entertainment value. I like to test out new stuff and see how it goes and I love the feedback. Let me know if there are any other blogs you would like to see linked to this one. Also on the right is a way to subscribe to this blog so when I add a new post or someone adds a new comment you will be notified.

Thanks, The Chief.

Auto Industry Bailout

How do people feel about the auto bailout? At first I didn't think the government should bail them out. The union deals are too rich and the industry hasn't responded very well to demand. They opposed any sort of government regulation for higher gas standards and payed lobbyists very well to get their point of view across to the right officials. (i.e. campaign donations) The federal committee with oversight of these standards was run by a Michigan representative so of course these standards were changed. The seventies should have informed the auto companies what the future would hold and the companies ignored the obvious and the government abdicated their responsibility to govern. I blame both of them but now I think by not bailing them out we will just speed what manufacturing infrastructure we have left in the US to foreign countries and I don't see it coming back in the near future. Why give 700 Billion to wall street bankers who are slicing and dicing our mortgages when the guy down the street has a job that could depend on the auto industry, like Johnson Controls in Milwaukee or the Janesville GM plant.

School Board Meeting Postponed

The board meeting for tonight, WED, Dec. 3 has been postponed to be rescheduled.

Wed. School Board Meeting 6:30

Does anybody know what the voting requirements are for the Wednesday meeting? Resident of he school district, township, city? And has anybody seen the agenda posted anywhere? They are required to post it 72 hours in advance but I haven't seen it.

Library Book Fair from December 3-10!!!

The library is having a book fair from Dec. 3-10. This is not the book sale they have several times a year but NEW books. The prices range from $1-$25. There is a LARGE selection for children and make great Christmas gifts. The Book Fair is upstairs in the regular library. While you are there stop and see the art show and check out a DVD. Stop in and see how your tax dollars should be spent before you go to the school to vote no on the land annexation and how your tax dollars should not be spent. The library is open until 6:00 on Wednesday. Tuesday and Thursdays until 7:00. Go support your library. It has lots of GREAT stuff.

The School Board is Spending What on Dec 3? VOTE NO!

On the front page of the paper this week is another article on the school board buying land for education purposes with a grant. This grant will not cover the total expense of the the land and school board is looking into the "possibility" of other grants to help purchase this land. What about future maintenance of the land? What about the costs we aren't sure of at this point but we know will show up after the land is purchased and need to be paid for. I am really at a loss about why the school needs this at all when one of the assets this rural school district has plenty of is students with access to land. If this was some larger suburban/urban area then is purchase might be a great asset. I don't see it here. Then, under the article for the purchase of this land is an article on the shortfall the school district is going to have for its budget. This is getting crazier.

As far as I know the school is getting 10 acres at the ABA in the development. Most of the kids in this town already have plenty of access to land. What board should be spending money on is more class trips out of town to see what else is going on the world. They don't need this land.

If you care about your tax dollars go to the school board meeting on December 3 and vote NO to this ridiculous purchase by the school board.

And Now the School Board...

As I understand most public budgets right now they are in financial trouble. Not the Green Lake School District apparently. They need to buy more land for a school that seems to be on the verge of closing. What the H is going on with this town?

ABA Development

What is going on with this project? I haven't heard much from the regulars on this and I haven't seen much in the paper. It seems like it might be full steam ahead with this project. Any news out there?

The Courthouse Saga

I can't believe the county is now going to borrow FIVE Million dollars for the courthouse project. Has anyone been watching what is going on with the economy these days? This is getting ridiculous.

Winter Fest Canceled

As the town comes up with new ideas for tourism the cancellation of Winter Fest by the chamber seems to be the best one so far. Yet another reason not to visit this "secret gem" of a town. This is another great idea from the Chamber of Commerce(what commerce?) to encourage tourism. Once these events are cancelled it becomes more difficult to get them going again. The chamber has too many committees with too many people with their own agendas and not the towns best interests.

School Board Mtg Nov. 19

I understand there is a school board meeting on the 19th at 7pm at the school. I am not sure what is on the agenda but someone in town who knows these things tells me it is important.

VOTE!!!

Well I guess I should check up on my own blog once in a while. I haven't been on here in a while because there hasn't been much going on in town. I was wrong.

I guess this election has really gotten people going. If all you people out there feel this strongly I can only hope you will be at the only poll that counts on Tuesday.

Happy Voting Day!

Governing Bodies of the Lake

Many of the problems I see in the area stem from ancient governing powers set up in Washington 150 years ago. The city is one governing body(City of Green Lake) while the larger area is Town of Brooklyn. Many of the citizens mutual interests come into conflict because by necessity these bodies must protect their tax basis. I would love to see these two entities come under one governing body. People naturally try to protect what power they have to the detriment of their mutual needs. Maybe the city should just start annexing as much as possible of the township bringing it under "one roof". It would make life less complicated for all us to go forward with mutual needs. The lake is the lively hood for many of us and this would be to all of our interests. We need one governing body for the benefit of all citizens here.

The Court House

While the rest of country is bailing out I can't believe we are going ahead with the courthouse building. This county has lost its mind considering the current economy. If we are going ahead I think it is time we invited the Hochunck Tribe back and make the current court house into a casino. Revenue would not be a problem for the city any more and all the businesses would benefit year round.

Harvest Fest

I would love to know how people think Harvest Weekend was. What did you like, what can be improved. Were there enough bathrooms? Should the band be in the intersection of downtown or at the remodeled band shell? Since it is a Harvest Fest shouldn't the people selling produce and flowers be in front of the courthouse? Maybe all the food vendors should all be in one park? Or spread all over?

The School

Yikes. It looks like we need some room for the school issues. Here it is. I am almost tempted to start its own blog. If Ken Bates reads this, as I suspect he does he should probably start a blog for the school. It could be linked in here very easily. Mostly I have found open forums like a blog make certain people uncomfortable. They just want all of you "voices" to go away. Including me quite often.

Open Forum

I like the idea of who ever came up with the Open Forum idea. Makes it a little easier. If there is a topic you would like to discuss and I don't cover it as much as you would like go to the Open Forum Topic. When you enter a comment just try to make it clear for the next person what you are discussing by putting a topic in Caps. For instance: THE SCHOOL BOARD and then just say what you wish. Lets see how that works out for people. Thanks for a good idea. I think.

Legitimate Complaint

The person who complained about not being able to post on subjects they would like to discuss makes a very good point I think. Sometimes I don't have inclination or time or enough information on a subject. I try but ....Anyway if someone is interested in starting their own blog you can go to google and under blogs you can start your own blog. I think the more the merrier.

Winn Collins Wins

It looks like incumbent DA Winn Collins will continue to be the DA for Green Lake county. He was running in the primary against Ceman on the Republican ticket and he won last night.

District Attorney Race September 9

The Green Lake County District Attorney Race is Tuesday Sep. 9. It is a primary race and most of the people running are unopposed. (Balweg, Petri, etc.) but the race for DA is going to be determined in the primary so voting for this office will be important. Collins and Ceman are both running on the Republican Ticket so the winner will essentially be the DA. Get out and at least vote for the District Attorney.

The Vice President Picks

What do you think about the VP picks? I think McCain outflanked Obama on this one.It is a very bold choice for McCain. First of all a woman is a great choice. Sarah Palin has 5 children, one with Downs syndrome. Obama choice of Biden is not going to be great for his ticket. Too white male for the Hilary supporters. Barack should have picked Hilary I think. I also think the Democrats should be more open to using nuclear energy. Now, with the Gov. of Alaska there will be a bigger possibility of drilling there. Picking Palin will also help negate the age issue for McCain(Although Reagan was older when he was elected).

DA Poll

The poll I put up is very preliminary. When it get closer to the actual race I will repost the same poll to see the outcome.

Comments for City Council on Downtown Improvement

I am making a heading for the city council area because Donna Moore is trying hard to get some feedback for the needs of the city and wants of the citizens for the downtown under other blog headings and I think that is a good idea. I am afraid and comments or feedback she gets will get lost in shuffle. There should be an area for City issues you would like the council to deal with and address concerning the downtown.

The Fireman's Street Dance

I understand the fireman's street dance was a great success and raised a lot of money. Thanks Mike Havey!

Street Banners

Vote for your favorite street banner at the library by August 29th at 6:00. I think you can also vote at the Chamber of Commerce or the Bank.

Remember The Street Dance!

Saturday night is the Town of Brooklyn-Green Lake Firemans street dance! If you want them to show up at your next fire show up at their street dance!

New Tax Assesments

It seems some people are getting some outrageous new tax assessments. I don't understand how the assessments are going up when most property values (not on the lake anyway) are probably going down. Who authorizes these?

Art Fair

The Art Fair is this weekend. I can't believe I almost forgot it. I love the art fair. The book sale is also on at the library and they just got a large new donation of books for sale.

Fireman Street Dance August 15

There will be a street dance to raise money for the fire dept. on August. 15. It starts at 5:00 and ALL (100%) of the money raised will be given to the dept. It is in Green Lake but I am not sure of the exact location. It is posted on the yellow signs you see around town. Get out and support the fire department.

The Green Lake County Fair

The County Fair starts tomorrow. It always means the end of summer to me. It is going to be HOT tomorrow. Go eat home made pie and ride the tilt a whirl.

The District Attorney Race

I am starting to see more lawn signs for the DA race. There really doesn't seem to be much difference in the views of the two candidates. Age and experience seem to be the big factors. Personally, I am sick of "Tough on Crime" attitude. How about "Smart on Crime" in stead. I feel as though much of what goes on is just to raise fine money for the county. The nanny state has taken over and the police and DA's are in the front lines. So called "crime" has gotten out of hand. There is no common sense involved anymore.

Summer

If you haven't noticed I haven't been posting much. Bored I guess and the only excitement seems to have been the storms which are hopefully over for the summer. The lawns look great though. Now, with the fair here I feel like summer is almost over. Hope for a mild winter.