Presidential Posts

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Boy missing from neighborhood

Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood e-News  
                                                           January 24, 2012
The DMN e-News and an occasional hard copy DMN News are published by the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association (DMNA) on an “as-needed” schedule.  The Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association, Inc. has been working to unite neighbors to solve mutual problems and promote fellowship among neighbors since 1973.  Our neighborhood is in Madison & Fitchburg.
               President, Bob Hague, bphague@tds.net   218-1760
               News contact, Mary Mullen, mmullen@chorus.net  298-0843
               Website: http://www.dunnsmarsh.org <http://www.dunnsmarsh.org>   (temporarily out of order)
               On Facebook: http://facebook.com/note.php?note_id=378988848623                  
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Articles
1 - 14-year-old Boy Missing from Neighborhood
2 - DMNA Neighborhood Council Meets 2/8/11
3 - Neighbor Pictured in New York Times
4 - Urban League Offers Job Training Opportunities  (Attachments:  “1 Urban League flyer.jpg” and “2 GE Healthcare Ltr.jpg”)
5 - UW Scholoarships Available for Returning Adults, Single Parents, and Other Non-Traditional Students
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 - 14-year-old Boy Missing from Neighborhood

Channel 3000 carried a news article this morning about a 14-year-old boy missing from his home on Lilac Lane since Monday afternoon.  He is Aidan C. Willkomm.  He needs to take medication to prevent possible seizures.

He was last seen walking across the pedestrian bridge that spans the Beltline and connects the two parts of Whenona Drive.

Aidan is about 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs about 120 pounds.  He has brown hair and hazel eyes.  He was wearing dark-colored jeans, winter boots, a baseball cap, and a black winter coat with zigzag lines on it.  For a picture of him, go to <http://www.channel3000.com/news/30287069/index.html>

If you have seen this boy, call 911.

Thanks to Fitchburg Alder Dorothy Krause for
letting us know about this news.



2 - DMNA Neighborhood Council Meets 2/8/11

The next regular meeting of the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Council is Wednesday, February 8, 7 p.m., at Prairie UU Society, corner of Whenona and Crawford.

If you are interested in attending and wish to speak on a specific issue, contact DMNA President Bob Hague, <bphague@tds.net>, 218-1760 or 770-9693.




3 - Neighbor Pictured in New York Times

I’m a regular subscriber to the New York Times.  Imagine my surprise when I glanced at a color picture on page A9 of the National section on January 18 and saw neighbor Dorothy Krause right in the middle of the photo!

She was part of the crowd gathered in front of the Governmental Accountability Board’s location near the Square to witness delivery of recall petitions for the Governor, Lt. Governor, and 4 Republican Senators.

See the picture and article at <http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/18/us/organizers-say-1-million-signed-petition-to-recall-gov-walker-in-wisconsin.html?_r=1&src=tp&smid=fb-share <http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/18/us/organizers-say-1-million-signed-petition-to-recall-gov-walker-in-wisconsin.html?_r=1&amp;src=tp&amp;smid=fb-share> <http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/18/us/organizers-say-1-million-signed-petition-to-recall-gov-walker-in-wisconsin.html?_r=1&src=tp&smid=fb-share >    Dorothy is one of the few without a hat.  She’s wearing a  light brown coat.

Dorothy is treasurer of the DMNA and one of the two alders representing the Fitchburg part of the neighborhood.  The other alder is Carol Poole.

The recall organizers reported that they delivered the following number of signatures for recalling various politicians:
    Over 1,000,000 to recall Gov. Scott Walker
     845,000 to recall Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch
      21,000+ to recall Sen. Terry Moulton of Chippewa Falls (23rd Senate District)
      21,000+ to recall Sen Pam Galloway of Wausau (29th Senate District)
      24,000 to recall Sen. Van Wanggaard of Racine (21st Senate District)
      20,600 to recall Sen. Scott Fitzgerald of Juneau (13th Senate District)
                                                                                    by Mary Mullen



4 - Urban League Offers Job Training Opportunities  (Attachments:  “1 Urban League flyer.jpg” and “2 GE Healthcare Ltr.jpg”)


Dear Community Partner:
My name is Kassandra McLaughlin, and I represent the Urban League of Greater Madison, a non-profit organization that helps others gain employment.   I am contacting you because I am trying to get the word out about two of our successful programs, the Foundations Program and Healthcare Administration Training Program.

The Foundation Program provides training for work readiness to prepare our members for employment.
 
Members will create a professional resume, cover letter, obtain professional email address, and learn basic Microsoft computer skills.  It is necessary to attend a short orientation on Mondays at noon here at the Urban League in order to be eligible.   Please see the attached Urban League flyer for more information.

The Healthcare Administration Training Program will provide students a chance to earn 11 credits from Madison College free of charge.  It prepares people for jobs in Healthcare Administration that includes Medical Reception, Medical Records Clerk, Insurance Verifier and more.  Please see the attached Health Administration Training Program flyer for more information.  The class starts April 6th, and the last Monday Orientation they can attend is February 6th.

Any assistance you could give in spreading the news about these programs or distributing/posting the flyers would be appreciated.  As a graduate of the Healthcare Administration, it has changed my life and I am positive it will change others’ lives too.  

Please feel free to contact Travis Graham at 608-729-1234 or email him at tgraham@ulgm.org for any other questions or concerns.
 
Sincerely,
Kassandra McLaughlin
Administrative Assistant for the Workforce Development Department
The Urban League of Greater Madison, 2222 South Park Street Suite 200
Madison, WI 53713
608-729-1234    <http://wwww.Ulgm.org <http://wwww.Ulgm.org>

              

                                                  
5 - UW Scholoarships Available for Returning Adults, Single Parents, and Other Non-Traditional Students

* Are you a returning adult or nontraditional student looking for funding to finish your UW-Madison degree?
 
* Do you have at least one academic year remaining before completing your degree (Fall 2012-Spring 2013)?
 
* Are there challenges affecting your academic progress (e.g., struggling with finances, raising a child while coping as a single parent, adapting to school after a significant break in your education)?
 
Then you may be eligible for one of our academic-year scholarships,awarded annually in several categories.  The application deadline is *March 1, 2012* for scholarships beginning in Fall.
 
For full details and application instructions, see our website at http://www.dcs.wisc.edu/info/finanserv/Nontrad-scholars.htm

Or simply go to our home page at http://www.dcs.wisc.edu/info/ and look for the link to /financial assistance/.
 
With funding from a number of generous donors, the office of Adult Career & Special Student Services (ACSSS), a part of UW-Madison’s Continuing Studies, offers a number of annual scholarships. These awards are designed to help returning adults, single parents, and other nontraditional students at UW-Madison who are pursuing undergraduate,graduate, or professional degrees. Scholarship amounts vary by the type of award. Last year scholarships were awarded to 22 students, and the amounts ranged from $1,000 to $5,000 for the academic year.
 
One application covers all award categories, so don’t miss this opportunity. If you are eligible, apply today!
                                    Thanks to neighbor Nikki Kraus for forwarding this information.


 
-------   End of the 1/24/11 Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood e-News  -----
                                                  Thanks for reading.
                     
 
 



                      

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

VOTER ID mtg., WED., 6:30 pm

WHAT:  Voter ID Information meeting

WHEN:  6:30 p.m., Wed., Jan. 11

WHERE:  Prairie UU Society, 2010 Whenona Drive (enter from Crawford Dr. side)

FOR WHOM:  Anyone who wants to vote or learn about the requirements of the new Voter ID law

SPONSORED BY:  Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association, conducted by representative of the Madison City Clerk’s Office

WHY:
  • because the law has changed since the last election
  • because you can’t vote without an approved picture ID
  • because some picture IDs won’t entitle a person to vote
  • because you believe that qualified electors should be able to vote
  • because you may have some questions
    • What about my mother in assisted living whose driver’s license has expired?
    • What if I want to vote absentee?  Will I have to send in a picture ID?  Will my vote count if I don’t?
    • What about my daughter who goes to the University of Wisconsin Madison and doesn’t have a driver’s license?
    • What about my son who goes to Madison College (MATC) and doesn’t have a driver’s license?
    • What if a person has lost their license?
    • What about my nephew who goes to school in Minnesota?  What does this law mean for him?
  • because if you don’t have an approved picture ID, it might take some time to get one, and you want to be sure you have all the correct documentation to get a driver’s license or special voter ID.  This information session will help you be successful in getting ID.
  • because you want to vote without a hitch in the elections coming up
Spring Primary Election - Tuesday, Feb. 21st (School Board, Court of Appeals, County Supervisor,  & more)
Spring Election - Tuesday, Apr. 3rd  (All above plus Presidential Primary)
Fall Primary Election - Tuesday, Aug. 14th (U.S. Sen. & Rep., state rep., city clerks, etc.)
General Election - Tuesday, Nov. 6th  (Presidential Election)


You should know, of course, that voters must be registered to vote as well as have a picture ID.  Register now, and your won’t have to prove residency on the spot because a postcard will be sent to the address you give.  Its return proves your residency.  Residency rules have also changed.  Someone qualified to register voters should be on hand at this meeting.


Need more information about this meeting?  Contact Mary Mullen,  Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association Communications, 608-298-0843.


This is notice is brought to you by the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association, Bob Hague, President, 218-1760 <bphague@tds.net>




Saturday, January 7, 2012

Voter ID info mtg. WED, plus much more (DMN News)

Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood e-News  
                                                  
January 6, 2012
The DMN e-News and an occasional hard copy DMN News are published by the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association (DMNA) on an “as-needed” schedule.  The Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association, Inc. has been working to unite neighbors to solve mutual problems and promote fellowship among neighbors since 1973.  Our neighborhood is in Madison & Fitchburg.
               President, Bob Hague, bphague@tds.net   218-1760
               News contact, Mary Mullen, mmullen@chorus.net  298-0843
               Website: http://www.dunnsmarsh.org <http://www.dunnsmarsh.org>   (temporarily out of order)
               On Facebook: http://facebook.com/note.php?note_id=378988848623                  
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oh, wow (or #&*@!#)!  It’s a full-length newsletter!  Please consider coming to the VOTER ID INFORMATION SESSION THIS WEDNESDAY (Article #1).  Check out the OPPORTUNITIES (#6-12).  One might be right down your alley.  If STRICTLY NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS (#15-23) is your cup of tea, that’s the section you’ll want to read first.  Finally, if you are a history buff,  read Dick Ginnold’s Memoir (#26) which is an attachment to the article in the POLITICIANS’ CORNER. By the way, you also might want to preview the MLK holiday schedule (#5a) which is included under OTHER DATES.  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARTICLES
            VOTER ID MEETING & INFORMATION
1 - Voter ID Information Session, Wed., Jan. 11 at Prairie UU Society.  DON’T MISS IT!!!
2 - How Hard Can It Be to Get Voter ID?
3 - Become a Paid Election Inspector (Poll Worker)
4 - Fitchburg Voter Registration -Additional Hours & Locations Offered

            OTHER DATES
5 - Future dates for DMNA Neighborhood Council Meetings
5a - Celebrate Martin Luther King Day Jan. 13-16
(mix of memoir/news/editorial)
 
OPPORTUNITIES
6 - Expanded Recycling Starts Now for Madison Residents
7 - Construct U Offers Free 8-Week Course on Road Construction Trades  
           (Attach. “#1 Construct U.jpg”)
8 - “Writing Our Life Stories” Open to All
9 - Arboretum’s Winter Enrichment Lectures Begin Jan. 19
(Attach. “#2 Arb winter enrichment.jpg”)
10 - West District Police Offer Survey Online
11 - Fitchburg Staff Green Team Suggests Trail Passes & Green Ideas Mailing List
12 - Getting the Lead Out
:  Money to Fix Lead Paint Hazards Available
 
   JUST INFORMATION
13 - Alternate Side Parking in Effect
14 - Bone up on January Women’s History

    STRICTLY NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
15 - Burglarized Homeowner Tells Her Story
16 -Police Responded to Big Street Fight at Beltline/Whenona Drive November 25
17 - Neighbor News
(Attach. “#3 proposed 27thCoSupDist.jpg”)
18 - Neighbors on Fitchburg Boards and Commissions
19 - Nice Crowd at Annual Meeting Offers Lots of Discussion
20 - After a Year, Frontage Road Bike Lanes Painted
(Attach. “#4 col bike lane-produce.jpg”)
21 - Liquor License Denied Unanimously by ALRC!  (Attach:  “#5 liquor opposition.jpg”)
22 - Preparing Your Mac to Play FACT TV Videos
23 - Previewing the Apache Pond Dedication Ceremony

   POLITICIAN’S CORNER
24 - Alder Solomon’s Update, December 5, 2011
25 - From Co. Exec. Joe Parisi:
 Preserving Your Priorities Despite Challenging Times
26 - Read Dick Ginnold’s Memoir of His Tenure as a Co. Supervisor
 (Attach.  “#6 Ginnold MY@2TERMSfinal.doc <mailto:MY@2TERMSfinal.doc> ”)
27 - Continuing to Visit the Voter ID Issue - from Rep. Terese Berceau’s Newsletter

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARTICLES

VOTER ID MEETING & INFORMATION

1 - Voter ID Information Session, Wed., Jan. 11 at Prairie UU Society.  DON’T MISS IT!!!
 
This Wednesday, January 11, the DMNA will sponsor a VOTER ID information session starting at 6:30 at Prairie UU Society.    All interested neighbors are invited to come.
 
A representative from the Madison City Clerk’s office will make the presentation.
 
A question and answer session will follow the presentation. Unregistered voters will probably also be able to register at this time.
 
The information session will cover details of the Voter ID requirements and how to get ID if you don’t have one or yours isn’t up to date.
 
Even if you personally have legal ID for voting, coming to this session will give you additional information that you can pass on to relatives, friends, and neighbors.  Perhaps you have questions about family members who don’t have ID or you’re not sure if their ID will do the trick.  What about older family members in assisted living or nursing homes?  What about college or technical school students who may live here or away from home?  Will their college ID work as a picture ID for voting?  What if you know someone who has just moved into the neighborhood?  Can you tell them how to get registered to vote and how to get a picture ID?  What if someone wants to vote absentee?  Do they have to send in their picture ID?
 
What documents does a person have to show to get an ID?  It may be more complicated than you think.   Read Representative Berceau’s example of a person up near Green Bay who had a terrible time getting an ID even though she was qualified to be a voter.
 
Hope to see you there, 6:30 pm sharp on Wednesday at Prairie UU Society, 2010 Whenona Drive (enter on Crawford).
 
Residents may also wish to stay on after the information session since the DMNA Neighborhood Council meeting is scheduled for 7:30.   Council meetings are open to the public, but only Council members can vote.
                                                                                                by Mary Mullen


 
2 - How Hard Can It Be to Get Voter ID?
 
(From state Representative Terese Berceau’s newsletter.  Terese is the state representative for the Dunn’s Marsh area.)
 
The new voter ID law is a great concern to me.  Back in September, Ruth, who moved to Green Bay, contacted me to share her personal story on how her experience of attempting to obtain a Wisconsin driver's license as a prelude to registering to vote.  After permanently moving from Ohio where she was able to continue working with her clients from her new home in Green Bay, Wisconsin in August of this year to move in with her adult daughter, her son-in-law and grandchildren, Ruth immediately began attempts to insure her right to vote in her new home state of Wisconsin by checking all of the voter ID requirements on the state's DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) Web site.  The Web site informed Ruth that either a Voter ID or a Wisconsin driver's license will suffice as voter ID.
 
In order to obtain a Voter ID or a Wisconsin driver's license, the applicant must have a proof of identity (passport or original birth certificate) and proof of residency. According to the DMV Web site, various items such as utilities bills, rent receipts, check stubs from an instate employer, or bank statements from an instate bank can be used to establish residency.  All of these option were problems from Ruth: her retirement bank accounts with Charles Schwab is a national bank with local agents but no local branches; her employer is based in Ohio; her utilities, etc at her new residence in Green Bay are in her daughter and her spouse's name.
 
However, Ruth has a passport, statements from her bank addressed to her at her new Wisconsin residence, a Medicare card, a card issued by her new HMO insurer which showed the assignment of a Wisconsin health care provider as a her primary care physician, and personal checks imprinted with her Wisconsin address.  After making arrangements with her daughter to go to the DMV and waiting in a line of up to 50 applicants, the clerk told her these documents were insufficient to qualify for a Voter ID or a driver's license.  
 
After her first unsuccessful attempt at obtaining proper identification to vote, Ruth checked the DMV Web site again.  She noted that one item on the list of acceptable proofs of residency was a letter addressed to the applicant at the claimed residency from a government agency.  Ruth then went back to the DMV again, waited in a long line with a letter from the U.S. Postal Service mailed to her at her Wisconsin address, which had a red banner stating "Official Confirmation of Address Change."  Again, Ruth was refused.  The clerk told Ruth that the official notice from the Postal Service was unacceptable because anybody could change their address for purposes of fraud--the same was true for personal checks--despite the Postal Service not being on the list provided by the DMV's Web site of unacceptable documents.  After an argument between Ruth's daughter and the clerk, a supervisor stepped in and said, "just take it," and initialed her form.
 
Despite Ruth eventually obtaining a voter ID, her story proves the difficulty one will likely face in trying to obtain proper voter identification.  The DMVs do not have enough staff for the long lines and the requirements are confusing to everyone--clerks and applicants alike.
 
                        from State Representative Terese Berceau’s newsletter
(For her complete newsletter item on voter ID, go to the end of the e-News)

 
 
3 - Become a Paid Election Inspector (Poll Worker)

Both Madison and Fitchburg need additional election inspectors, those poll workers who check voters into the polls.   The jobs are paid.
 
To access the Fitchburg application to be an election inspector, go to http://www.city.fitchburg.wi.us/departments/cityHall/cityClerk/VotingElectioninfo.php
where you can download a form and fill it out.  The finished form should be sent to the Fitchburg City Clerk’s Office, 5520 Lacy Road, Fitchburg, WI 53711.
 
If you prefer to work at a Madison polls,  go to http://www.cityofmadison.com/election/pollWorkers/apply.cfm
to fill out an on-line application.
 
The 2012 regular elections are
Spring Primary Election - Tuesday, Feb. 21st (School Board, Court of Appeals, Co. Sup. & more)
Spring Election - Tuesday, Apr. 3rd  (All above plus Presidential Primary)
Fall Primary Election - Tuesday, Aug. 14th (U.S. Sen. & Rep., state rep., city clerks, etc.)
General Election - Tuesday, Nov. 6th  (Presidential Election)
 
The recall effort against Governor Scott Walker may result in an additional election in the spring or summer.
                                                                                                by Mary Mullen

 
 
 
4 - Fitchburg Voter Registration - Additional Hours & Locations Offered

We will be providing additional hours at offsite locations to allow Fitchburg Voters the chance to register, update their address if necessary, or to verify the photo ID that they will be using at the polls is acceptable. If you have any questions, please call 608-270-4200

The Fairways Apartment Community Room, 2301 Traceway Drive, Fitchburg on Sat., Jan. 7th from 9 am to noon.

Fire Station 2, 5415 King James Way, Fitchburg, on Sat., Jan. 14th from 9 am to noon.

City Clerk, City of Fitchburg, 5520 Lacy Rd,Fitchburg, WI. 53711
(608) 270-4210 (608) 270-4212 fax
linda.cory@city.fitchburg.wi.us
 

Do you have a valid Photo ID for Voting Purposes?

Please verify @ 270-4200 or
http://www.city.fitchburg.wi.us/departments/cityHall/cityClerk/VotingElectioninfo.php <http://www.city.fitchburg.wi.us/departments/cityHall/cityClerk/VotingElectioninfo.php>

 

OTHER DATES

5 - Future dates for DMNA Neighborhood Council Meetings starting with Jan. 11
 
Dates of future DMNA Neighborhood Council meetings have been reserved at the Prairie Unitarian Universalist Society meeting house, corner of Crawford and Whenona.  

Wed., Jan 11, 2012 (7:30 rather than 7 pm due to public meeting on Voter ID at 6:30 pm)
Feb. 2012 - not yet scheduled
Wed., Mar 7, 2012
Wed., April 4, 2012

Any resident is welcome to attend these meetings although only Council members can vote.  
Contact President Bob Hague if you have a special item you would like the Council to discuss or take action on at any meeting.  His contact information is bphague@tds.net 218-1760 (h), or 770-9693 (c).
 


5a - Celebrate Martin Luther King Day Jan. 13-16 (mix of memoir/news/editorial comment)

Every year I look forward to celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Day, Jr.  
 
Back in 1960 I heard Dr. King speak when I attended Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia as an exchange student from my college in Illinois.   I actually took part in an attempted sit-in at Rich’s Department Store in downtown Atlanta.  
 
Then as an elementary teacher in the 1990s to 2005, I helped my fourth graders understand the meaning of the MLK, Jr. holiday.  We always had a great time turning the classroom into a Montgomery, AL bus and reliving Rosa Parks’ refusal to get up from her seat so a white man could have it when there were other empty seats he could have sat in.  Then we put footsteps on the school walls to show how many weeks people walked to work while boycotting the segregated Montgomery bus system in 1955 and 1956 - 55 weeks.
 
There are lots of opportunities to celebrate MLK, Jr. Day in Madison.  One good way is to attend the State of Wisconsin’s 32nd Annual “Tribute and Ceremony.”  It’s held in the Capitol Rotunda at 12 noon on Monday, January 16. Music is a big part of that celebration;  this year Madison’s Bagpipers, Chicago’s GMAC Mass Choir, Milwaukee’s Latino Arts Strings Program, Peter Phippen who is a Native American Flute Stylist, and the Madison Youth Choirs will all perform.  
 
Guest speaker for the Rotunda celebration is Sherilyn Ifill, a professor of law at the University of Maryland School of Law.  She’s a civil rights lawyer who specializes in voting rights and political participation and a former assistant counsel at the NAACP Legal Defense & Education Fund, Inc.
 
The celebration I usually attend is the 6 pm event at the Overture Center.  There is always a rousing performance by the community choir and a chance to sing along on some numbers.  Awards are given to both adults and youth who made a difference, and a nationally-known speaker gives the keynote.  I can always depend on going away happy.
 
Other celebrations occur on other days and in other places.
 
The 28th Annual Martin Luther King Youth Recognition Breakfast will be held on Sunday, January 15.  Nearly 200 middle and high school students of color in Dane County will be honored for their academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and service to the community.  It’s a nice change from the bad news we often hear about young people of color. The breakfast is open to the public, often selling out with over 800 people in attendance.
 
The 13th annual MLK Youth Service Day follows on January 16.  It’s a day of learning with workshops, speakers, entertainment and community service projects.   It’s based on King’s idea that “Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.”
 
You can get actually get started celebrating on the  Friday before the holiday.   The Free Community Meal will be held in Gordon Commons, 717 W. Johnson St., starting at 4:30 p.m. on the 13th.   One time when I took part in this free dinner, the entre was swordfish.  I doubt that I would have ever eaten swordfish otherwise.  It had a very different texture than ordinary fish, and it was very tasty.
 
For a few more details and a listing of the main events, pick up a free copy of the Jan. 4-10 Madison Times. Better yet, wait for next week’s copy which will be devoted to the holiday.
                                                                                                            by Mary Mullen

 
 
OPPORTUNITIES

6 - Expanded Recycling Starts Now for Madison Residents

The City of Madison is adding new material to the curbside recycling program.
 
You can now put the following items in your green recycling carts.
1) Plastic Bags (Grocery and retail bags, produce bags, newspaper bags. No dark green or black bags.)
2) Plastic Dairy Tubs and Deli Containers and their lids
3) Other Plastic Containers numbered 1-7
4) Number 1 plastic clamshells and berry containers
5) Empty Steel Paint cans and Lids
6) Metal Pots and Pans
7) Small Metal Appliances (Toasters, Blenders, etc.)
8) Small Metal Plumbing Fixtures and Pipe (Faucets, valves, pipe 18" long or less)
 
There is more . . .
check out the city's website
http://www.cityofmadison.com/streets/recycling/guidelines.cfm

 
 
 
7 - Construct U Offers Free 8-Week Course on Road Construction Trades  
           (Attach. “#1 Construct U.jpg”)

People interested in being employed in the road construction trades, especially women and minorities, have a great opportunity to get trained by the YWCA for free.  The 8-week “Construct U” free training is provided during 3 different sessions.
 
For detailed information, click on the attachment.  Do it now, because the Winter session begins very soon.
 
The training is conducted at the YWCA Madison Empowerment Center, 3101 Latham Drive, Madison.
 
 

 
8 - “Writing Our Life Stories” Open to All

Two neighborhood residents are part of a memoir writing group that published a book this summer. Melba Jesudason and Mary Mullen have selections in the book “Will to Write.” It’s available at the Meadowood Community Center for $8 or at
www.lulu.com <http://www.lulu.com>  for $6 plus postage.
 
Melba’s selections tell about her life in India before she and her husband immigrated to Madison and about her life here. Mary’s contributions recount growing up in a minister’s family in the little Kickapoo River town of Wauzeka, WI and of her semester as an exchange student at Spelman College in Atlanta, GA.

The writing group, which meets at the Meadowood Community Center on Raymond Road, is called “Writing Our Life Stories.”
 
The group welcomes all newcomers. Doesn’t matter what age you are or if it’s the middle of the session or even the last scheduled day. The new session begins January 23.  Meeting time is 10:00 a.m. each Monday. There are no fees for this group.
 
Call 467-8360 for more information, or just show up.
 
If you are interested in the book, the fastest way to find information on Lulu is to put Richard Radtke in the search box. The book will be shown as Meadowood Life Story Writers with Richard Radtke as author.  Radtke leads the group.  Current membership is about half men and half women
 
In the front row of the photo on the cover are both neighborhood contributors.   You’ll recognize Melba by her bright orange sari.  Melba is probably already familiar to Madison voters in our neighborhood since she also works an election official at the Madison polls at Head Start during elections.                                                                                                                                                  by Mary Mullen





9 - Arboretum’s Winter Enrichment Lectures Begin Jan. 19 (Attach. “#2 Arb winter enrichment.jpg”)

We have a world-class resource right next to our neighborhood.  What is it?  The University of Wisconsin Arboretum.  
 
One of its most stimulating programs is the Winter Enrichment Lectures.  Once a week, on a Thursday, at 9:00 a.m., about 100 people gather to listen to the lecture of the day.  This year, the lectures start on Thursday, January 19, and end on Thursday, March 22.  
 
Anyone can join this group of nature enthusiasts to learn about a great variety of nature topics. The first lecture is “Youth Grow Local:  Environmental Education in the Garden.”  Three others are about the impact of wind turbines on birds and bats, about the effigy mound builders, and about “A Brief History of the Earth.”  
 
To see a complete schedule and registration form, see the attachment, or register and pay online at www.uwarboretum.org <http://www.uwarboretum.org>   Cost for the entire series is $60 for Friends of the Arboretum members or $70 for non-members.  Or you may register for classes individually for $12 (FOA) or $13.50 (non-FOA).
 
A snack is served during the break.  The lecture concludes at 11:30 a.m.
 
Several residents of our neighborhood already attend these lectures.  Wouldn’t you like to join us?
                                                                                                by Mary Mullen
 


10 - West District Police Offer Survey Online

Our West Police District needs to hear from you! Please take a couple of minutes to complete the annual West Police District survey. Your opinion on what the issues are in our neighborhood is extremely valuable to them and helps them better understand how to serve us and the entire district. Thank you!

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/757X753 <http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/757X753>
                        from Meadowood N A President Lisa Veldran, but it applies equally to DM Neighborhood
 
 

11 - Fitchburg Staff Green Team Suggests Trail Passes & Green Ideas Mailing List

We'd like to let you know that Fitchburg City Hall now has 2012 Wisconsin Annual State Trail Passes available for sale.  The passes are $20 each and are available through the Recreation and Clerk's Departments on 2nd Floor of Fitchburg City Hall at 5520 Lacy Road.
 
State Trail Passes can be used as your permit to bike, horseback ride, cross-country ski, in-line skate, and/or off-highway motorcycle on appropriately marked Wisconsin State Trails.  A full listing of locations and options can be viewed at:
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/parks/fees/trailpass.html <http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/parks/fees/trailpass.html> .  Locally in Fitchburg this State Trail Pass can be used for recreational biking and/or bicycle commuting on the Badger State Trail, Capital City State Trail, and/or Military Ridge State Trail.
 
This great gift idea is brought to you by Fitchburg's Staff Green Team and associated staff members in the Clerk's and Parks/Recreation Departments (e.g. Scott Endl, Tony King, Linda Cory, Tracy Mergen, Patti Anderson, and others).
 
We're also in the process of creating a special electronic mailing list for "Green Ideas" to interested Fitchburg residents and businesses (who can subscribe at:
http://www.city.fitchburg.wi.us/mail_list/index.php) <http://www.city.fitchburg.wi.us/mail_list/index.php)> , similar to the electronic Fitchburg Update newsletter subscription, etc.  However, we're still brainstorming what to call this list (e.g. "Envir-Aware", "Fitchburg Green News", "Eco-Fitchburg", etc.). If you have any comments, ideas, and/or suggestions for names and/or content for this mailing list, please feel free to contact me at your convenience.
 
Rick Eilertson, Fitchburg Staff Green Team Co-Chair
 
Rick Eilertson, P.E., Environmental Engineer. City of Fitchburg
5520 Lacy Rd, Fitchburg, WI 53711
rick.eilertson@city.fitchburg.wi.us 270-4264 direct, 235-0412 cell


 


12 - Getting the Lead Out:  Money to Fix Lead Paint Hazards Available

Madison WI – October 24, 2011- If you live in a home that was built before 1978, there is a high likelihood that lead-based paint was used.  Lead is a poison that can damage the brain, kidneys, and nervous system and is particularly dangerous to children and pregnant women.  A toddler with lead poisoning is at risk for learning disabilities, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, abnormal maturation of their bodies and aggressive behavior.
Old lead painted surfaces begin to peel off in paint chips and can create lead dust in the home; especially floor surfaces where young children have an increased risk of exposure when they crawl and put their hands in their mouths. Renovations and remodeling activities if done without regard to lead can generate very high levels of lead in the home environment.  To ensure that these home improvements are completed safely, families living in these older homes or apartments need to confirm if lead is present by having paint chips tested.  If confirmed, all repainting and remodeling must be done using specific lead-safe procedures.
 
The good news is that there is funding available to help address this problem.  Those who qualify may get support to cover 75 percent or more of the costs for lead-safe remodeling.   You can qualify for this support if you meet the following criteria:
·        Your home was built before 1978
·        You have children under six or care for children under six (example, childcare or grandchildren)
·        The children must get a blood test for lead before the work begins
·        You meet the income guidelines to participate (see link below)
·        If you are renting, the person who owns the property must be willing to participate and follow the requirements of the program

Funding for this program may be limited, so now is a good time to act.  More information about the Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program is available at:
 
Common Wealth Development Inc. at (608) 256-3527 Ext. 27
Project Home at (608) 246-3737
Public Health Madison and Dane County at (608) 266-4821
 
Details about eligibility are available at
http://www.projecthomewi.org/lead-abatement

Details about lead poisoning can be found at
http://www.publichealthmdc.com/documents/LeadPois-Eng.pdf

Details about lead-safe remodeling can be found at
http://www.publichealthmdc.com/documents/LeadGuide-Eng.pdf

 

JUST INFORMATION

13 - Alternate Side Parking in Effect
 
It hardly seems like winter.  The snowplows have been out a only a couple of times this year, but don’t forget that Madison’s Alternate Side Parking rules are effect. That means that people in Madison have to park their cars on the odd side of the street when they park on the night before an odd-numbered day and on the even side on the night before an even-numbered day.
 
 Complete details on winter parking rules are available at www.cityofmadison.com/winter <https://my.cityofmadison.com/emaillists/redirect.cfm?ID=37884&MID=6478&LID=104> . Residents can also sign up to get e-mail and text alerts whenever a snow emergency is declared and to receive e-mail plow alerts at My Account <https://my.cityofmadison.com/emaillists/redirect.cfm?ID=37885&MID=6478&LID=104> .


 
14 - Bone up on January Women’s History

January Highlights in US Women's History

Jan 3, 1949
- Margaret Chase Smith (R-Maine) starts her tenure in the Senate, where she stays in office until 1973; the first woman to serve in both the House and Senate as she previously served in the House (R-Maine, 1940-1949)  
Jan 5, 1925 - Nellie Tayloe Ross is inaugurated as the first woman governor in U.S. history (governor of Wyoming)
Jan 7, 1896 - Fanny Farmer's first cookbook is published in which she standardized cooking measurements
Jan 7, 1955 - Marian Anderson is the first African American woman to sing at the Metropolitan Opera  
Jan 8, 1977 - Pauli Murray, the first female African American Episcopal priest, is ordained
Jan 11, 1935 - Amelia Earhart makes the first solo flight from Hawaii to North America  
Jan 12, 1932 - Hattie Wyatt Caraway (D-Arkansas) is the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate. She was the first woman to chair a Senate Committee and the first to serve as the Senate's p residing officer as well
Jan 25, 1980 - Runner Mary Decker became the first woman to run a mile under 4 1/2 minutes, running it at 4:17.55
Jan 29, 1926 - Violette Neatly Anderson is the first black woman to practice law before the U.S. Supreme Court  

January Birthdays

Jan 3, 1793 (1880 ) - Lucretia Mott, women's rights pioneer, Quaker minister, pacifist;  
Jan 7, 1891 (1960) - Zora Neale Hurston, pioneering scholar of African American folklore
Jan 8, 1867 (1961) - Emily Greene Balch, economist and sociologist; co-founder of the Women's International League for Peace with Jane Addams (1919); won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1946, shared with John Mott
Jan. 9, 1859   Carrie Chapman Catt, woman's suffrage leader and president of the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA)
Jan. 9, 1941 - Joan Baez, award winning singer and songwriter; human, civil, and peace activist; founder of Humanitas International Human Rights Committee (1979)  
Jan 11, 1885 (1977) - Alice Paul, suffragist leader, founder of National Women's Party (1916); her strategies helped pass the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote (1920); initiated the Equal Rights Amendment (1923)   
Jan 12, 1820 (1914) - Caroline Severance, early suffragist, social reformer; co-founded the American Woman Suffrage Association (1869); first woman to register to vote in California (1911)  
Jan 13, 1850 (1911) - Charlotte Ray, first African-American woman lawyer and first woman admitted to the bar in D.C.
Jan. 13, 1917 Edna Hibel  the first woman to win the Leonardo da Vinci World Award of Arts.
Jan 19, 1905 (1995) - Oveta Culp Hobby, second women in the U.S. Cabinet (20 years after Frances Perkins), first Secretary of the Dept of Health, Education, and Welfare (1953); awarded the Distinguished Medal of Service for her work as Director of the Women's Army Corps (1945)  
Jan 23, 1918 (1999) - Gertrude Elion, biochemist, won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in  1988
Jan 24, 1968 - Mary Lou Retton, first and only Amer ican woman to win a gold medal in the All-Around in gymnastics at the Olympics (1984) and first American woman to win a gold in gymnastics, first woman featured on a Wheaties cereal box  
Jan 26, 1872 (1957)  - Julia Morgan, first woman licensed architect in CA, innovative architect of Hearst Castle and over 700 extraordinary buildings  
Jan 26, 1892 (1926) - Bessie Coleman, first African American woman in the world to fly a plane and earn an international pilot's license




STRICTLY NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS


15 - Burglarized Homeowner Tells Her Story

This past fall a Belmar resident’s home on Jenewein was burglarized.  She offered her story to be published in the e-News.  Her experience might help others avoid the same fate.  
 
Here’s the story in her own words.
 
Essentially, we inadvertently left our car unlocked (we NEVER do this) and parked in our driveway. They got into our car and used our garage door opener to get into our garage sometime during the night.  
 
They only took about $150 worth of stuff even though they had access to much more.  The garage door to our home was locked (thank God!).


 

16 - Police Responded to Big Street Fight at Beltline/Whenona Drive November 25

Madison police were called to respond to a big street fight in the vicinity of the Beltline Frontage Road and Whenona Drive on Friday, November 25.  Police responded to calls around 6:30 pm.  An estimated 30-50 teens were involved according to reports.  
 
Four male teens were arrested for disorderly conduct.  Three were age 14 and one was age 15. Investigators believe that many involved in the violence are gang affiliated.
 
DMNA President Bob Hague was one of the people who called police as he and his family drove down Axel Avenue after police had arrived on the Beltline.  He observed 6-7 teens on the Axel end of DeVolis Parkway and a dozen more at the corner of Axel and Britta.
 
Read the police report at
http://www.cityofmadison.com/incidentreports/incidentDetail.cfm?id=12759 <http://www.cityofmadison.com/incidentreports/incidentDetail.cfm?id=12759>

 


17 - Neighbor News (Attach. “#3 proposed 27thCoSupDist.jpg”)

A long time neighbor Kevin Schmudlach passed away in December.  Kevin, Wendy and daughter Katie have lived across the street from us for 20 some years. Kevin found out he had bone cancer earlier this last summer.  He fought it to the end.   We will all miss him.  Kevin was only 53 years old.
                                                            from Mary Melvin, Wiindflower Way
  
Also, a note that Eugene Borman (one of the longest residents of Windflower Way) has been in and out of the hospital and now is going to a Nursing Home.  “Gene” was a long-time Butcher at the Ken Kopps grocery store and most recently at the Regent Street Market.  At both places “Gene” was the favorite Butcher of the patrons.  
from Mary Melvin, Windflower Way
 
 
Neighbors responded to the suggestion that they might want to donate to a fund for the family of Faith Cadotte who died December 13, leaving a husband and 2 children.  Over  $200 was collected and given to the family.
                                                            from Kim Zinski, Crawford Drive
 
Fitchburg Alder Dorothy Krause has been campaigning for County Board Supervisor.  When the January 3 deadline for candidates to turn in signatures required for candidacy arrived and passed, no other candidates had turned in signatures.  This pretty much guarantees that Dorothy will be elected to represent County Supervisory District 27.  (Attach:  “#3 proposed27thCoSupDist.jpg”)
                                                            
                                   


18 - Neighbors on Fitchburg Boards and Commissions


The Belmar area of our neighborhood is well-represented in Fitchburg.  Here are 4 neighbors who are officially part of one or more Fitchburg government organizations.
 
Carol Poole and Dorothy Krause are alders for Fitchburg’s District 1.  They are appointees to the committees they serve on.  Ron Johnson is a former alder.  All 4 have been involved in the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association over the years.
 
Carol Poole, Crescent Road
Common Council Member, District 1, Seat 2, term expires 04/15/13
Public Safety and Human Services, term expires 04/15/13
Plan Commission as Mayor Designee and Chair 04/15/13
Personnel Committee, term expires 04/15/13
 
Dorothy Krause, Apache Drive
Common Council Member, District 1, Seat 1, term expires 04/15/13
Broadband Telecommunications Commission, term expires 101513
Personnel Committee, term expires 04/15/13
Landmarks Preservation Commission, term expires 04/15/13
 
Ron Johnson, Pawnee Pass
            Plan Commission, term expires 04/17/2012
            Transportation and Transit Commission, as rep from Plan Commission, term expires 04/17/2012
 
Dave Martin, Sentinel Pass, Resource Conservation Commission, term expires, 04/16/13

 
For a complete list of members of all the active committees, go to http://www.city.fitchburg.wi.us/meeting_minutes/activeMemberLists.php  Addresses, phone numbers, and some e-mails are given there.  
 


 
19 - Nice Crowd at Annual Meeting Offers Lots of Discussion

This year’s “speed meeting” of the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association attracted 27 people. It offered lots of discussion time, and a new Council was elected as well.
 
Everyone had a chance to introduce themselves and mention what street they lived on.  Then attendees approved last year’s minutes and learned that the DMNA treasury now contains $1052.  
 
Soon it was time for discussion.  The main concerns seemed to center around dogs, other park issues, and Verona Road.  Pit bulls are causing concern to people that use the parkway on DeVolis, and barking dogs are causing problems elsewhere in the neighborhood.  It seems that there are fewer dog problems in Marlborough Park.  One suggestion was to post signs in the parks to educate dog-owners. Anyone interested in that issue should contact Jo Kelley.
 
Another park issue was the cutting of trees under the electric lines in Marlborough Park. One attendee offered her extra dogwoods for planting in a back yard affected by the clearing.  Still another person thought it would be nice to have a concert in the park.
 
Elections were held. A Neighborhood Council of 7 people was chosen:  Bob Hague and Jo Kelley from the Crawford area, Donna Sarafin, Burree Beaudoin, Mary Mullen, and Thea Bach from the Marlborough area, and Dorothy Krause from the Belmar area. Burree and Thea are new faces. The rest have been on the Council for awhile.
 
At the first new Council meeting on November 2, three officers were chosen to continue in the offices they held during the past year:  Bob Hague, President; Jo Kelley, Vice President; and Dorothy Krause, Treasurer.  The Secretary, Donna Sarafin was chosen at the December 7 meeting
 
There’s still room for more Council members since bylaws provide for a Council of 12 residents. If you are interested in working for a better neighborhood and also want to keep in the know about what’s going on here, contact President Bob Hague.
 
Meetings are held at Prairie UU Society, 2010 Whenona Drive, generally at 7 p.m., usually on the first Wednesday of the month.  The next meeting is this Wednesday, January 11 at 7:30.
 
The January 11 meeting will be preceded at 6:30 by an information meeting on the new Voter ID requirements and how to be prepared for a problem-free experience under the new state law.  All residents are invited to attend.
                                                                                                            by Mary Mullen
 
 
 

20 - After a Year, Frontage Road Bike Lanes Painted (Attach. “#4 col bike lane-produce.jpg”)

This is old news now, but have you noticed that the Beltline and Verona Frontage Roads finally have painted bike lanes?
 
Mark Winter of the City of Madison noted that, “You will be able to see … some areas (either side of Atticus) where we didn’t have the room for bike lanes due to the roadway splitting into two travel lanes.”
 
In an e-mail on October 19, Winter added:  
Also, have some guide signing coming. Signs taking so long because we are developing new bike route guide signs and looking into making them “smart”.
 
By adding a small code on the bottom or sign or pole anyone with a smart phone and “App” will be able to hold up their phone to the sign and be directed to a website that would have bike related info, bike map, closest bike shop, etc,
 
Sorry for the delay and thanks for your patience!
                                                                                     
The DMNA had asked for painted lanes back in the  summer of 2010.  They were promised for 2011 and finally painted in late October or early November.  The signs, smart or not so smart, haven’t arrived yet.
                                                                                               by Mary Mullen                                                                        b
   
 
 
 
21 - Liquor License Denied Unanimously by ALRC!  (Attach:  “#5 liquor opposition.jpg”)

The Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood won a resounding victory against the application for a liquor license and store proposed for Madison Plaza where Dream Bikes used to be.
 
On Wednesday, November 30, after a brief hearing that drew 7 speakers from the neighborhood opposing the application and a short discussion by the Alcohol License Review Committee, the ALRC voted unanimously to deny the license. The only 2 speakers favoring the license were the applicant and an employee who works for the management of the premises.  
 
The ALRC had also received 21 communications opposing the license and none favoring it.  (See the list on the attachment or go to http://legistar.cityofmadison.com/detailreport/matter.aspx?key=26733&mode=print <http://legistar.cityofmadison.com/detailreport/matter.aspx?key=26733&amp;mode=print> to read them.)
 
The hearing itself was rather low-key except for sparks that flew when the applicant claimed that neither the Alder Solomon nor the ADMNA had responded to her calls to meet with them and that the neighborhood would welcome a grocery store that sold liquor. Neighborhood residents shook their heads in surprised disbelief of these statements.
 
In an e-mail to the DMNA on November 9, Alder Solomon said, “ I have no concerns about the owner / operator; only the location. But I do not believe it is a good fit and have told police, the applicant, and the Madison Alcohol Policy Coordinator the same.”
Solomon was unavoidably out of town for the hearing and couldn’t respond to the applicant’s claim.
 
However, ADMNA President Selena Pettigrew strongly denied that she had not responded.  Called back to the speaker’s stand to talk on this issue, she directly accused the applicant of lying.  Pettigrew said that the applicant’s attorney had called, and she (Pettigrew) had invited them to the ADMNA board meeting but had heard nothing back in response.  They had not come to the meeting.  She added that even ADMNA board members who do drink alcohol opposed this liquor store.
 
The DMNA had agreed to put the applicant on its agenda for the December 7 Council meeting, but the ALRC subsequently rescheduled its cancelled meeting to November 30 instead of putting everything onto its regularly scheduled December 21 meeting.
 
On her return to the speaker’s stand the applicant also suggested that her application had been damaged by the fact that her nationality and gender had been mentioned in one communication from the DMNA.  But ALRC members took special pains to point out that her gender, nationality, or experience had nothing to do with their opposition.
 
ALRC member Landgraf said that he had been involved in the Revival Ridge development on Allied and that even if speakers and every member of the ALRC had favored this liquor store, he would have been opposed. “It’s the wrong business in the wrong place,” he said.  “I just don’t want to see this kind of business now.”
 
Alder Verveer added an amendment to the motion to deny the license, saying that granting a license would be “contrary to the health and welfare of the community.”  He also referred to Alder Solomon’s opposition. “It’s opposition to the location, not the applicant or her ancestry.”    “All the neighborhoods are opposed,” he added.
 
Neighborhood people didn’t have a chance to respond to the applicant’s claim that we would welcome or even accept a grocery store that sold alcohol.  In a discussion outside the City County Building after the decision, DMNA President Bob Hague said that the applicant had twisted his words.   He said he had told her we would welcome a grocery store - in fact any number of the speakers mentioned this in their testimony -  but there was no talk about whether the neighborhood would favor a liquor license for such a store.  Very likely there would be strong opposition.
 
Neighborhood residents were warmed by unexpected praise from ALRC member Farley.   He said that usually neighborhoods just come in to oppose liquor licenses, but our neighborhood is different.  “I like that you know what you want and where you want to be.  You have a vision.”  
 
Speakers opposed the license on many fronts.  They included:
·      a liquor store is not an asset to our neighborhood
·      proposed security cameras would not prevent problems
·      robberies could be expected since there have been robberies at the frontage road liquor store
·      bars would have to be put up on the windows to prevent burglaries
·      public drunkenness
·      probability that buyers would pass alcohol on to underage drinkers
·      proximity to a probation and parole office
·      history of neighborhood opposition to liquor licenses even for restaurants in our neighborhood
·      unanimous opposition by the councils of both the DMNA and ADMNA (Bob Hague spoke for the DMNA and Selena Pettigrew spoke for the ADMNA.)
·      opposition by the Madison police department
·      plentiful opportunity to buy alcohol in the neighborhood already (1 liquor store plus both gas stations)
·      too plentiful opportunity to buy alcohol at locations within walking distance just outside the neighborhood
·      expected police calls for loitering around the store
·      opposition expressed by Madison Alder Solomon and Fitchburg Alder Krause
·      general problems related to liquor stores and alcoholics who live in the vicinity
·      fact that this is already a challenged neighborhood
·      jeopardy of heavy investments that Madison has made to improve the neighborhood on Allied Drive and Avalon Village
·      proximity to Avalon Village (right next door)
·      denial of liquor license to Walgreen’s
·      litter of alcohol bottles and cans that disfigure the neighborhood and show evidence of liquor issues  (One speaker brought a large bag of alcohol bottles and cans gleaned from the frontage roads and Britta Parkway.)
·      the neighborhood has worked hard to improve safety including having a neighborhood watch and does not want to go back to previous unsafe conditions
·      efforts of Mothers in the Neighborhood to improve conditions
·      desire of the neighborhood to grow, not decay
·      need for a grocery store, not a liquor store
·      and more…

One new fact came up in the hearing.  Tracey Schwab, employee of the management of Madison Plaza, said that Madison Plaza owners had an agreement with Walgreen’s that no business in Madison Plaza could sell food.  She said this is the reason they are having problems getting tenants in the empty locations in the mall.  This assertion has not yet been fact-checked.  

When Ms. Schwab was asked if she knew the history of the neighborhood, she responded that they’ve previously had no problems at this mall or in Chicago, and they would deal with any that developed.  A repeat of the question drew nothing further.
 
This was the third victory in 2 years against attempts by 3 different applicants to get liquor licenses.  In 2009, Tom Caputo had applied for a license for a Sicilian restaurant and bar at the corner of Danbury and the Beltline Frontage Road - 4365 West Beltline.  At the same time, Said Jridi and Ahmed Faouzi applied for a liquor license for Faouzi’s Moroccan bar and grill just 2 doors east at what had been the Blarney Stone bar and is now Dream Bikes - 4245 West Beltline.  Mr. Caputo never met the parking lot requirements for his establishment and let his application lapse.  In April 2010 Mr. Faouzi opened his restaurant without a liquor license.  It failed for lack of enough business less than a year later.
                                                                                                                        by Mary Mullen
 
 
 
 
22 - Preparing Your Mac to Play FACT TV Videos

Mac owners trying to access Fitchburg’s FactTV videos may need to download special free software to view them.  I discovered that when I tried to watch the Apache Pond Dedication Ceremony that was videotaped on September 17, 201l down at the pond. My computer wouldn’t show it.
 
But Rick Eilertson and Fact TV staff came to the rescue.  They noted that Mac users might need the Quicktime plugin order to play Windows Media files. It's called Flip 4 Mac. It’s free.
 
Here’s the link:
http://dynamic.telestream.net/downloads/download-flip4macwmv.htm <http://dynamic.telestream.net/downloads/download-flip4macwmv.htm>

Now if you want to see the Apache pond at a different season and watch the dedication, try http://factv.city.fitchburg.wi.us/Cablecast/Public/Show.aspx?ChannelID=1&ShowI <http://factv.city.fitchburg.wi.us/Cablecast/Public/Show.aspx?ChannelID=1&amp;ShowI>
 
You will probably have to use the search blank.  Just put in “Apache Pond” and press “Go.”  When the new window comes up, click on “Watch me.”  You’ll soon be watching the dedication that took place at the pond right in our neighborhood.
                                                                                                by Mary Mullen
 
 
 
23 - Previewing the Apache Pond Dedication Ceremony

Want to know who you’ll hear and see if you access the Apache Pond Dedication video on Fitchburg’s Fact TV?
 
These are some of the main characters:  
Rick Eilertson and Felipe Avila who are Fitchburg staff who worked on designing the pond
Sarah Kraszewski of Stantec, the consultant for replanting the area,
Cory Foster of B & G Club who brought 3 groups of teens to help plant the area
Eric Rotvedt of DNR
Fitchburg Alder Carol Poole
Fitchburg Mayor Shawn Pfaff, and
Mary Mullen of the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association.  
 
Also present and pictured in the video are long time activist neighbors David Martin, Mary Somers and Andy Somers.  Mary Somers has painted some watercolors that may become part of a children’s book about the pond.  Newer neighbors who offered their input into development of the pond amenities are Dunn’s View Condo residents Paul Lundsten and Frank Cook.  Both are shown in the video.
 
Late in the video Rick interviews Libby Zimmerman who introduced her husband Jim Zimmerman to Dunn’s Marsh.  Jim taught Dunn’s Marsh neighbors about the value of marshes and how to protect Dunn’s Marsh. Dave Martin recalls how we learned about marsh protection in his very own living room high on Sentinel Pass above Dunn’s Marsh.  This was back in the early 1970s.
 
By the way, if you have a Mac, and it doesn’t want to play the video, check out the article above this one on how to get an ap that will allow you to see it.
                                                                                                by Mary Mullen
 
 

POLITICIAN’S CORNER

24 - Alder Solomon’s Update, December 5, 2011

Greetings District 10; I hope this email finds you well. A few things to report on:
 
Redistricting. Most of you know that redistricting is set to take effect on January 1, 2012. I’m still not totally sure what this means but the current thinking is that Dudgeon Monroe Neighborhood Association (DMNA) will be in District 13 and Sue Ellingson will be our alder. I’ll remain the alder for the new District 10, including Nakoma, Dunn’s Marsh, Summit Woods, and Allied Dunn’s Marsh. Sue Ellingson’s contact info is district13@cityofmadison.com, but please feel free to contact me as well if anything comes up or you have questions.
 
Bike Path Lighting. Some of you know that I’ve been talking with city engineering for a few years about the possibility of lighting the southwest bike path between the Beltline and Breese Terrace. Staff have looked at a number of options but the technology did not really exist to do what we wanted: light the bike path with a very strong downward light that focuses light on the path, eliminates upward light, and minimizes spread outside the path itself. There are some new LED fixtures which I believe satisfy the requirements. The city has installed two test fixtures on the path near its intersection with Council Crest.  I encourage you to view the test installation.  
 
Monroe Street Updates. Several new businesses, Sardine is eyeing up the new Parman Place, B-cycle stations are coming to the neighborhood, and Michael’s is closing for winter L. Remember to support your local businesses this holiday season!!!
 
 There are lots of other things going on but I’m tired and want to get this out! So enjoy.
 
Have a beautiful and safe holiday season. I am very thankful for much in my life, including the opportunity to represent you and make a difference in our community. Thank you for giving me the chance,
 
Brian (Solomon), Madison 10th District Alder
 
 
 
25 - From Co. Exec. Joe Parisi:  Preserving Your Priorities Despite Challenging Times

When I first took office in April, the county was facing an 8 million dollar deficit heading into the 2012 budget due to deep cuts from the state.  These cuts posed a severe threat to the county’s core services.  

Despite these challenges, through innovation, efficiencies, and new partnerships, the county budget I recently signed into law preserves these services you expect and deserve - - despite difficult budget challenges.

The 2012 budget increases funds to our human services safety net more than $4.4 million dollars to a total of more than $238 million dollars. Included in this amount is a new contingency fund to protect the elderly, children, and people with disabilities in the event of further state cuts to county human services.

Through the shared sacrifice and ideas of our county workforce, Dane County employees contributed more than $2 million in savings.

In addition, I developed an innovative new partnership between workers in our parks and highway departments that will help put 11 more snow plow operators on the roads this winter while saving taxpayers over $400,000.

I also worked with Sheriff Mahoney to secure over $1.8 million in efficiencies in our criminal justice system while protecting public safety.

I ensured my first budget placed a priority on economic development as well.   Through my new Office of Jobs and Prosperity, we’ll collaborate with our private and public sector partners to retain and create family-supporting jobs in Dane County.  And we’ll expand exciting sectors of our economy, such as clean energy jobs and sustainable agriculture.

And because of partnerships with groups like the Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District and the Clean Lakes Alliance, we have new dollars for our work to clean up the lakes.

I’m proud to report that through working together, we navigated this budget challenge and protected your priorities.

                                                            by Dane County Executive Joe Parisi

 

26 - Read Dick Ginnold’s Memoir of His Tenure as a Co. Supervisor  
                                   (Attach.  “#6 Ginnold MY@2TERMSfinal.doc <mailto:MY@2TERMSfinal.doc> ”)

Years ago, actually back in the early 1970’s, Richard Ginnold, then running for County Board, encouraged the people in the Dunn’s Marsh neighborhood to form an association.  That suggestion was taken up by Jane Marquardt, Linda Cable, Gale Schmiedlin, and Mary Mullen.  The Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association was born.
 
Now Dick Ginnold has written a memoir about his years as a County Supervisor.  It is attached for the pleasure of any local history buffs in the neighborhood.  He has a personal note at the end of the memoir that you might want to check out first.
 
During his years in Madison, Dick lived on Mohican Pass on the west side of Midvale Boulevard, but he took on issues that affected our neighborhood. Previous supervisors had basically ignored us.
 
After his two terms, he decided not to run again, but his wife Elaine picked up the ball.  Dick now lives in Mexico and his ex-wife Elaine works in government in California.  I’ve had nice communications with both of them.
 
You can also read about their contributions to this neighborhood in the neighborhood history book, In Our Own Words:  The Best of the Dunn’s Marsh News.    This book is available for purchase for the low, low price of $3.  Contact Mary Mullen, mmullen@chorus.net or 298-0843.
                                                                                     by Mary Mullen

 
 
 
27 - Continuing to Visit the Voter ID Issue - from Rep. Terese Berceau’s Newsletter

When the state Legislature passes a new law the agency that implements that law has to come up with administrative rules on how to implement it.  Once the agency creates the rule, the rule then goes to the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules (JCRAR), a joint committee in the Legislature, to be approved. However, the Republican controlled Legislature has given Governor Walker unprecedented powers over administrative rules through 2011 Act 21. Among other things, Act 21 allows the governor to see all administrative rules that are created, and he can decide on whether to veto the rule before the law is actually executed.  If the governor approves the administrative rules, they are sent back to the Legislature for review before a standing committee.
 
What are administrative rules and why you should care
An administrative rule is an agency policy that governs people's rights or conduct and has the force of law.  Agencies promulgate administrative rules in order to administer and enforce specific state laws and to implement general agency objectives. Each rule must be authorized by state statute and can be referred to as a chapter of the Wisconsin Administrative Code.
 
Administrative rules are created, amended or repealed through what is called a "promulgation process."  This process generally takes at least six months from to start to finish but may take much longer.
 
For more information on administrative rules, CLICK HERE.
 
What this means to the new voter ID law
On November 15th, JCRAR ordered the Government Accountability Board (GAB), a nonpartisan board which runs state elections, to submit formal rules on technical college student ID cards. Additionally, the committee ordered election officials to write rules on its policy allowing colleges to affix stickers to student IDs to make them eligible for voting.  Both decisions came after a fiery debate which resulted in a 6-4 vote along party lines.
 
In September, GAB determined that technical college IDs could not be used under the new voter ID law.  After realizing their mistake, they reversed that decision earlier this month. However, some legislators on JCRAR raised concerns about allowing technical college student IDs and ordered GAB to write administrative rules on its policy.
 
This may appear to some that this is a real intent to help students.  However, in reality, this may or may not be true based on timing issues.
 
The statute says JCRAR can direct an agency to promulgate rules within 30 days.  However, practically speaking, considering the changes to administrative rules through Act 21, this is nearly impossible.  On top of giving the governor unprecedented expanded powers, Act 21 changes the process of scope statements, which is the basic notice that an agency must give stating they are starting the promulgation process.  Under Act 21, the scope statement for emergency rules must be published in a minimum of 15 days, and then ten days must elapse before the agency can work on the rule.  Furthermore, the scope statement must be approved by the governor.  
 
The new power of gubernatorial approval for scope statements and for draft rules before they are sent to the Legislature for review hinders the ability of the agency to promulgate rules within the required 30 days.  Prior to Act 21, rules went to legislative committees for approval, not the governor.  This new expansive power, in effect, gives the governor a chance to withhold any policy he doesn't like or to simply veto it.  
 
Unfortunately, due to the trust lost in the Capitol, we are concerned that since there is no timeline that forces Governor Walker to make a decision, he could not act on this rule in time for the February primary and possibly recall elections later in the spring. Or, in the extreme situation, he could veto the rule entirely, leaving technical college students who do not have a driver's license scrambling to get proper voter identification.  Essentially, Governor Walker can withhold approval for as long as he wants, which will directly affect students' ability to vote.
 
Furthermore, if Governor Walker approves the administrative rule--which is highly unlikely--JCRAR can still block it.  
 
This threatens the right of all Wisconsin citizens' ability to exercise their right to vote. Specifically, it is an attack on Wisconsin's long-standing tradition of inclusive elections that embrace young people's participation and treats technical college students like second-class citizens.
 
A personal story exemplifying why this all matters
(Return to the second article in this newsletter to read this story of Ruth, from Green Bay, who had a very difficult time getting her voter ID.)

In response to JCRAR's (Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules) decision and stories like Ruth's, I urge you all to be proactive in getting your free voter IDs.  Parents, help your students get proper identification; children and grandchildren, think of your parents or grandparents who may not drive get proper identification; help your friends get proper identification.  Do not wait until the governor makes a decision on the administrative rule.  
 
Voter IDs are available at your DMV (be sure to tell them you want a free voter ID), and six University of Wisconsin campuses -- Madison, Milwaukee, Green Bay, Eau Claire, La Crosse, and Whitewater -- will issue specific student IDs available for voting purposes to those students who want them starting January 23rd, which will be separate from their main student ID cards.  Additionally, UW-Superior will make its main student IDs compliant with the new voter ID law.  
 
Under the new voter ID law, voters need a Wisconsin driver's license, state-issued ID card, military ID, passport or naturalization certificate, or ID issued by a Wisconsin-based tribe in order to vote.  The student ID issue is unlikely to be resolved before the recall elections.
                                                                                     from State Representative Terese Berceau’s newsletter
 

-------------- END of the January 7, 2010 Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood News -----------------
                                            THANKS FOR READING