yoSAMite says

Sen Taylor in dreamland

2012-01-24T23:50:00.000-06:00

State Senator Lena Taylor today sent out a press release today about the disappointing employment figures for black males in the city of Milwaukee. The Press Release is titled "Taylor Calls For Real Action to Meet Real Crisis with Real Solutions".

This is the same Lena Taylor who called for a boycott of a local businesses in her Senate district because they supported Gov. Scott Walker.

This is the same Lena Taylor who spent weeks in Illinois holding up jobs legislation and has the nerve to say this in her press release "Despite the fact that Republicans have been in control of both houses for a year, you have not made a dent in the manufacturing problem!"

Sen. Taylor you fail to mention that these numbers are from a time when you were in the majority in the State Senate, the Democrats had the majority in the State Assembly and the Gov was a Dem also. If the legislation you passed was so successful, why did we not see any increase in the employment situation.

Sen. Taylor it's time you point your fingers at the failed policies of the officials in Milwaukee. You know, Mayor Barrett who's been in charge since 2004, a common council led by Democrats for decades, a county board out of control, and state representatives and senators who obviously have failed in their attempts.to change the way businesses view opportunities in the City of Milwaukee.

You may also want to watch your rhetoric. I can't imagine a business being excited to locate in your senate district when at any time you'll use your political bully pulpit to damage them if they don't agree with your politics.

One Sided Money

2012-01-22T10:44:00.000-06:00

It gets a bit frustrating when watching a political TV show and all you hear is one side of a discussion in what is trying to be "fair" show. This weeks segment with Frederica Freyberg of Here and Now on Wisconsin Public Television and her interview with Wisconsin Democracy Campaign director, Mike McCabe was one of those times.

Mr. McCabe talked about big money interests and their influence on Wisconsin politics. The focus was on Scott Walker getting money from out of state and Super PACS from Republican presidential candidates. Suspiciously missing was any mention of money from local and national unions.

By no means was this discussion anything more than a hit piece of poor journalism.

Rep. Young Calls for Sensible Gun Laws

2012-01-11T20:57:00.000-06:00

MADISON – Representative Leon D. Young (D-Milwaukee) called today for sensible gun control legislation after six Milwaukee homicides in the first ten days of the year.

“The startling number of homicides to start the year must prompt elected officials to re-evaluate our approach to gun crimes,” said Rep. Young. “Allowing more citizens to carry weapons creates situations where arguments turn into homicide.”

Through January 10, there were six homicides in the city of Milwaukee, two of which were domestic in nature. Five of the six homicides were the result of gun crimes.

Rep. Young, you been in office since 1992. What the heck have you done to take guns out of the hands of youngsters and others? Isn't time you stopped blaming others for the failure of Milwaukee politicians to change the city?

One of your supporters, Planned Parenthood, kills more than that monthly. Speak out about that.

Missed by just a block

2012-01-04T22:42:00.000-06:00

We are hearing that one of the favored candidates for county supervisor lives outside the district they want to represent.

Per Wisconsin Statute Section 59.20 (1) eligibility for county office, “no person may file nomination papers as a candidate for, have his or her name placed on a ballot for election to, or hold a county elective office who is not an elector of the county. No person may file nomination papers as a candidate for, have his or her name placed on a ballot for election to, or hold the office of county supervisor who is not an elector of the supervisory district from which he or she is chosen.” A candidate for county supervisor will have to have lived in the supervisory district for which he or she is seeking office for at least 28 days prior to filing the nomination papers with the Office of the Election Commission.

He used the old map to determine which district he was in. Maybe he should have run for alderman instead.

Justice Gableman blah blah blah

2012-01-01T10:55:00.000-06:00

All the hubabaloo about whether Justice Gableman received a gift of free legal representation that one reads in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, it can be summed up in one sentence in today's MJS article:

"Technically, under the law they have an argument that it wasn't a gift."

To all the lawyers and politicians who make their livings off of technicalities, live with it.

Debate or Not

2011-12-30T22:24:00.000-06:00

In last Sunday's Crossroads section of the MJS, Andrew Feldman states the following while talking about political independents in an article titled "To win, Democrats have to change" :

Others are upset about the process, especially Republicans' attempt to ram through major legislation (the budget-repair bill earlier this year) without much debate.

In Steven Walters end of the year look at Wisconsin politics a couple of pages later in the Crossroads section he says the following:

Feb. 25: After a record 60 hours of debate, the Assembly passes Act 10 [the budget-repair bill] prompting Democrats' shouts of "Shame! Shame! Shame!"

It seems to me someone is mistaken on the facts of the ramming through legislation and debate.

Coggs supports killing babies

2011-12-29T22:51:00.000-06:00

Rep. Elisabeth Coggs (D-Milw 10) has introduced JR81 relating to Women's Reproductive Rights..

Relating to: women's reproductive rights.

Whereas, the basic right of all women to decide freely on issues of childbearing and sexual and reproductive health without threat of coercion, violence, or discrimination is a safeguard that must be protected; and

Whereas, women comprise fifty-two percent of the United States' population but bear the sole responsibility for childbearing; and

Whereas, women who plan their pregnancies are more likely to seek prenatal care, improving their own health and the health of their children; and

Whereas, it is obvious that politics is a key arena for the fight to protect and expand reproductive rights for women both in Wisconsin and the nation, and merely electing more women or more "good" politicians is simply not enough to ensure this necessary commitment; and

Whereas, reproductive health is a component of overall health, throughout the life cycle, for both men and women; and

Whereas, reproductive decision-making, including voluntary choice in marriage, family formation, and determination of the number, timing, and spacing of one's children rests with the ability to have access to the information and means needed to exercise voluntary choice; and

Whereas, a majority of American voters believe that matters related to women's reproductive rights, including contraception and abortion, are personal issues that should be decided by women and their families, health care providers, and clergy members; and

Whereas, supporters of women's reproductive rights include the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Planned Parenthood, National Organization for Women, NARAL Pro-Choice, Center for Reproductive Rights, and the National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association, just to mention a very few; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the assembly, the senate concurring, That the Wisconsin legislature supports women's reproductive rights.

Rep Coggs, I would ask you this young lady, who speaks for the "least of these" in the 10th District?

It certainly isn't you.

Recall Loophole Fix

2011-12-28T12:23:00.000-06:00

This is a good move, let's hope it garners bipartisan support in both houses of the State Legislature.

Today, State Representative Evan Wynn (R – Whitewater) announced a bill to eliminate a loophole in state law that allows recall organizers to pay people to sign recall petitions. Visit the Wheeler Report for a press release, Rep. Wynn's letter to the GAB and GAB's response.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T01:43:00.000-06:00

My word for the day - Incarnation

Prayers for Rep. Grigsby

2011-12-22T17:36:00.000-06:00

It's been reported that State Rep. Tamara Grigsby has been admitted to the hospital with a grave illness. Since I've blogged about her in the past I believe it is important that I also pray for her and her family. It is my sincerest wish that she has a quick full recovery.

To Hell With Hitchens?

2011-12-17T01:58:00.000-06:00

Prolific writer Christopher Hitchens died on December 15th. People die every day so this isn't a big surprise.

What I do find interesting is the discussion of Hitchens relationship or lack thereof with God. There seems to be a movement afloat to redeem God, not Hitchens. I see this as absolute foolishness. Someone in my stream tweeted that Hitchens probably has God questioning His existence.

If people are allowed to make conjectures about what happens after death, here's mine. After your last gasping breath you step out of time and into a "no time / new space dimension" and find yourself standing in front of the Bema Seat of a Most Holy God. Seated to the right of the Father is Jesus, our Advocate in Heaven.

What I imagine happening is a replaying of your life, good and bad, the things you said, did and thought. Do you try to justify your existence in Heaven? I don't know. What I do know is that we all will fall short of the Glory of God. Here's where our Advocate stands up for us. For those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior here on earth He raises his nailed scared hand and the Father sees our lives in a new light. One washed white by the shed blood of the Son. That is the key to our eternal entrance into Heaven.

For those who've chosen to not acknowledge Jesus redemptive acts in our time/space dimension I believe God honors that decision in eternity also. Hell is the place for those who want nothing to do with God. An existence for your soul totally absent from the presence of God.

I make no judgement on Hitchens soul. I do believe that whatever choice he made, God will honor it. It's my sincerest hope that his decision was the former, not the latter.

Pearl Harbor

2011-12-07T15:17:00.000-06:00

Pictures often speak louder than words.

Biddle Dribble #6

2011-12-07T10:57:00.000-06:00

In another useless press release, Milw. County Supervisor Eyon Biddle, Sr. had again attacked the his political opposites. No one disagrees with the verbose county supervisor about the need to support the victims of sexual assault.

The problem I have is Biddle's quote, "By thinking outside the box, Supervisor Biddle believes administrative efficiencies can be identified within the Department to absorb these cuts in a different way." Supervisor, you need to be more specific with the details. Anyone can make broad based statements, a true leader has a solution.

I believe that the legislature would listen to any proactive positive changes you would suggest. Sen. Taylor is on the Joint Finance Committee. Work with her to do something other than complain.

Job Hypocriscy

2011-12-02T08:08:00.000-06:00

Taking a page from Sen. Lena Taylor or did Taylor take a page from this group, The Scott Walker Watch has a boycott page to help drive business away from Wisconsin. Is boycotting a business really a way to attract jobs to an area?

Don't Bogart that Medicinal Joint

2011-12-01T07:34:00.000-06:00

State Rep. Mark Pocan and State Sen. John Erpenbach have reintroduced the Medical Marijuana bill. Interesting in that both of these men are working toward moving on in their careers. Pocan is running for US Congress in Tammy Baldwin's seat and Erpenbach has shown interest in running for Governor if enough signatures are passed through the sieve at GAB in Gov. Walker's recall.

Also interesting in that it didn't pass when the Dems controlled the state legislature. I wonder what these two know about the freshmen class of legislators that we don't?

Alderman Bohl battling the Double Dip

2011-11-30T11:48:00.000-06:00

A Common Council committee is scheduled to consider a measure by Ald. Jim Bohl that would prohibit retirees from earning more by the combined total of their pensions and their city contracts than they earned as regular employees, unless the council grants an exemption

Alderman Bohl is my city representative. What I like about him is that he actually responds to my questions and he's an absolute blast to watch as he runs the Common Council's Licenses Committee. He will get my vote this spring as he runs for re-election.

Walker = Jedi

2011-11-27T13:29:00.000-06:00

It's clever, now I'll have to watch the Star Wars series again to get all the references.

A Night at Lena's

2011-11-27T12:27:00.000-06:00

32 people have registered to vote at an address owned by Lena Taylor which is only allowed to house 8 people. We've gone undercover to discover a video of what one of those rooms look like on election day.

Feingold Crapola

2011-11-20T12:25:00.000-06:00

The lead line in yesterday's JSOnline article about the Walker Recall stated "Former U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold signed a petition as he helped kick off the rally" (it's been moved down in the updated article link).

The key word is FORMER.

Feingold also said "he sees his role as a supporter of restoring 'civility and unity' to the state." In case he forgot, he lost to Sen. Ron Johnson 52%-47%. So how does signing a petition to nullify the last election help unify the state?

Classic crapola.

Peter Marshall - What America Needs Now

2011-11-18T23:54:00.000-06:00

Been into some history lately and I just watched A Man Called Peter on TMC about Peter Marshall. Marshall was a Scottish preacher who served at New York Avenue Presbyterian Church and as a United States Senate Chaplain. Here's a short clip that I believe is pertinent today as it was in 1947.

Loves me some old school

2011-11-15T12:17:00.000-06:00

Orioles going old school.

Recall Mania

2011-11-15T12:13:00.000-06:00

The season of the recall continues and may I say it's really baloney.

Happy Veterans Day

2011-11-11T09:35:00.000-06:00

And thank you very much

How the Heil Are You

2011-11-05T20:52:00.000-05:00

Here's a weird picture of John Nichols who spoke Oct. 27th at the 10 Anniversary gala of the workers rights center at the Potawatomi Woodland Dreams Ballroom. This was in an article by Dominique Paul Noth on the Milwaukee Area Labor Council website.

I guess that's one way to get the recall Walker troops psyched up.

Me, I say Heil NO to the recall

Guns at the Capitol

2011-11-05T20:35:00.000-05:00

Here's why Fred Kessler doesn't like the idea:

"The Legislature's polices have drawn criticism from minority Democrats and at least one high-ranking Republican. Rep. Fred Kessler, D-Milwaukee, raised fears that weapons in the Assembly gallery could lead to spectators shooting representatives, pointing to an incident in 1954 when Puerto Rican nationalists opened fire from the U.S. House of Representatives gallery."

Really, that's the best you got?

Double Dip Fred

2011-11-05T20:27:00.000-05:00

As the Legislature moves ahead with a Double Dipping bill, Democrat Fred Kessler is against the bill. Fred was a judge for 11 years and is drawing a pension for his time on the bench along with his salary as a legislature.

The way it stands now I could not vote for it," said State Rep. Fred Kessler (D-Milwaukee). Kessler is in a unique situation, given the fact he has been double dipping for several years. "Yes I am drawing a pension as a judge for the 11 years I was there, but I'm not back on as a judge; I'm working as a state legislator," said Kessler. .. He feels if, like in his case, someone leaves one job for a different job there's no reason why they shouldn't be fully compensated. "I just think outright prohibition would keep out people who otherwise can serve a very useful purpose, because of the experience they have in making a real positive contribution to Wisconsin," said Kessler.

How wacked is the pension system. Kessler spent only 11 years on the bench and he's getting a pension. He has no problem with that.

Let's take a look at another potential situation. State Senator Spencer Coggs recently turned 62 years old. He's running for Milwaukee City Treasurer. At 62, Coggs could retire from the legislature and still become treasurer, not only getting his pension from serving 30 years as a legislator but his salary of $114,040.

No one begrudges these men their just dues, but playing the system should not be included in that compensation. They are there to serve their constituents and saving them money by only sucking at one teat at a time would serve them well.

Dems booting Krusick?

2011-11-02T18:30:00.000-05:00

The party of illusional inclusion folded their arms in disgust today at Democrat Assemblywoman Peggy Krusick from Milwaukee's southside 7th District. This after Krusick proposed an amendment that would eliminate someone's racial makeup as a qualifier for college scholarships.

The debate on the Assembly floor was fascinating, but I could only stay up for the first round which I think ended somewhere around 1:30am. I have to admit I was somewhat surprised at the level of intensity with which the Dems attacked, not only the amendment, but Rep. Krusick who is one of their own.

What I find interesting is that somehow taking race out of the equation for scholarships is now being racist. So it seems that race free legislation is the new racism.

Then to top off the intensity of the debate, I heard on WTMJ 620AM news that Hispanic Representative JoCasta Zamarripa said she would not only support but encourage kicking Krusick out of the Democratic caucus because of the amendment.

It's apropos to see that the Democrats are not immune to this season of political chaos they are causing.

Castle Vote

2011-11-02T14:40:00.000-05:00

The Wisconsin Assembly voted on AB 69 (Castle Doctrine Law) yesterday. It passed 71-24 (1 not voting & 2 paired). On the right is a map of Milwaukee area legislators who voted for (red) the bill and those who voted against (blue) it. Rep. Barbara Toles who represents the 17th Assembly District didn't vote.

Twelve of the no votes came from represents who serve parts of the City of Milwaukee.
Those representatives (and their district) are: Elizabeth Coggs (10), Dave Cullen (13), Jason Fields (11), Tamara Grigsby (18), Fred Kessler (12), Peggy Krusick (7), Sandy Pasch (22), Jon Richards (19), Christine Sinicki (20), Leon Young (16), JoCasta Zamarripa (8), Josh Zepnick (9)

I'm wondering what the representatives in the city know that those outside the city don't.

Biddle Dribble vs The Constitution

2011-11-02T11:14:00.000-05:00

Milwaukee County Supervisor Eyon Biddle Sr. continues in his quest to work hard for the citizens of Milwaukee using his full time position and County resources to weigh in on the State Legislature's acceptance of constitutional gun rights.

Mr. Biddle who issued another press release which includes the following, "The gun lobby in this state is providing immunity to irrational, paranoid, and sometimes delusional property owners who shoot someone they perceive as a threat."

When someone enters your home or business with the intent of committing a crime, I do believe that person is a threat. I'll even estimate that 99% of people would agree with me.

As Wisconsin joins 48 other states in allowing concealed carry and moves toward an acceptance of the Castle Doctrine Bill it looks as though this county supervisor will have to follow his Wisconsin 14 heroes and head to Illinois to be safe from wild west atmosphere of Wisconsin and his safe 10th Milwaukee County Supervisory District. Fortunately for us I'm sure he'll leave a paper trail.

Where Do You Vote

2011-10-31T10:02:00.000-05:00

This continual voting season is causing havoc for Wisconsin voters and politicians don't seem to give rip. If the Democrats strategy is to cause confusion and chaos in their time of non power, I do believe they will be succeeding.

Unfortunately they were not put in office to accomplish chaos.

Packers Very Watchable

2011-10-28T17:26:00.000-05:00

The Green Bay Packers were involved in 5 of the 15 most watched TV Shows in the fall season. When you're hot you're hot.

Partisan Primary Changes

2011-10-26T13:46:00.000-05:00

Some of the changes coming in the September primary voting (SB116) a new date and new name. It will now be called the "Partisan Primary." This is a good idea as it will help people understand that this vote is for Political Parties to choose who will represent them in the November elections. The date will be the 2nd Tuesday in August, which means the date for the 2012 election cycle is August 14th.

The other election change which matters more for those interested in running will be the dates that candidates can garner the required signatures for nomination papers. Those dates will be from (or as the law states "no sooner than") April 15 and can be filed with GAB no later than 5pm on June 1.

The previous dates were June 1 - 2nd Tuesday in July, these will no longer be valid so take notice any potential candidates.

Military Votes vs Fred Kessler

2011-10-26T13:28:00.001-05:00

Senate Bill 116, concerning changing the Primary Voting date, came up on the Assembly floor yesterday. Basically this bill

changes the date of the September primary from the 2nd Tuesday in September to the 2nd Tuesday in August and renames it to be the "Partisan Primary".
makes various changes in the laws pertaining to absentee voting. Most of the changes relate to absentee voting by military and overseas electors of this state.

The main reason for the change in date is to allow time between the primary and general election so military votes can be counted. The other changes were to accommodate county clerks in their duties.

Rep Fred Kessler* proposes an amendment to change the date from the 2nd Tuesday in August to the 4th Tuesday in August. His reasons are far from altruistic.

It would shorten the election season which he feels is to long already. The longer election season means Fred has less time to spend with his kids and grandkids. Check out WisEye at the 2:16 mark.

Well the amendment was voted down. But before that happens, Rep. Chris Taylor lets slip another possible motive for the 4th Tuesday primary date. That moving the date to the 2nd Tuesday in August would hinder out of state college students from being active in the process.

After the vote Rep. Kessler begins his round of objections. What makes this so funny is that the elder statesmen who prides himself on knowing the rules. Keeps objecting at the wrong times. His first objection is to a motion for a 3rd reading. You can hear the giggles from other legislators when Kessler is corrected by Rep. Kramer. The second wild objection while a unanimous consent motion is being asked for. Rep. Kramer assures Fred he will be recognized at the appropriate time.

You'd think Rep. Kessler would know the procedure by now.

I've got some thoughts for the rascally Rep from Milwaukee. Allowing adequate time for military votes to be counted is just as important as the other voting rights you claim to stand up for. If you think the election season is too long - take a stand against the recalls. If you need more time to spend with your family - retire.

Despite this bump in the road, SB116 will be moved to the Senate next week.

*Fred Kessler is my state rep and I unsuccessfully ran against him in the 2010 campaign.

Media Trackers on hunt for Voter Fraud

2011-10-26T09:58:00.001-05:00

Media Trackers is doing a great job exposing voter fraud from SEIU activists.

Kane's Real Stunner

2011-10-26T09:45:00.002-05:00

Eugene Kane recently wrote the following in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

I was accosted at the supermarket by a woman who wanted to know if I planned to write about Assembly Bill 286.
"It's going to be terrible for the community!"
The woman was state Rep. Barbara Toles

Kane actually heard from Rep. Toles, this is the real stunner.

From a Dan Bice article in Jan. of 2010 "Legislative records show Toles hasn't been the "author" on a single piece of legislation since the two-year session began in January 2009."

Clueless

2011-10-25T03:12:00.000-05:00

Here's the analysis of compensation for Milwaukee County Employees:

Baker Tilly conducted the study, which analyzed how total compensation for Milwaukee County employees compares to other public and private sector employers in the Milwaukee metropolitan region.
The key findings included:
While Milwaukee County is second, after the State, in total compensation for higher-paid positions, the County is the lowest for lower paid positions.
The pay ranges at the County and the City of Milwaukee tend to be narrower than pay ranges at the State and in the private sector.
In looking at benefits for new hires, Baker Tilly found that the County’s benefits package is the lowest of the public sector entities, but is more generous than the private sector.

Here's Lee Holloway's analysis:

"This report shows that Milwaukee County’s compensation is in line with other public and private sector employers,” Chairman Holloway said. “In fact, despite what is reported in the local media, our benefits package is actually the least generous compared to other large public sector employers.”

Here's mine:
You're missing the point Mr. Holloway. Your package is "more generous than the private sector" and this is point of contention.

Seasons

2011-10-21T23:59:00.000-05:00

As the high school football season moves toward the state championships for a very small minority it also will end the career of many high school athletes as their teams get eliminated from competition. These young men, who have gladly given up their time to work toward a goal will now move on toward a new season in their life. A few will continue their football days at college, but most will not don their pads and jerseys ever again.

This evening I watched Milwaukee Lutheran lose their game to Wisconsin Lutheran. This changing of life's season had a special meaning for me. When my grandson was in 4th & 5th grade he played youth football with some of the members of the current ML team. Eight autumns of their young lives playing football has come to end. Now will come a time when what they've learned will be put to the test in real life.

Teamwork, discipline, and commitment has been ingrained in them. In life they will win sometimes and lose sometimes. It is my hope that they take these life lessons with them and become men of honor in their new season.

Ecclesiastes talks extensively about seasons. Peter Seeger wrote a song inspired by those verses and the Byrds brought it into the mainstream.

No Voter ID for Queen Gwen

2011-10-21T15:50:00.000-05:00

Queen Gwen speaketh in a press release:

"I plan to introduce a bill in Congress that would bar the requirement of photo IDs as a requirement to vote in federal elections. When I took my oath as a Member of Congress to uphold and defend the United States Constitution, I took it very seriously. Our right to vote is one of the most protected rights of any that we enjoy in our democratic system. In fact, the constitution was amended five times over our nation’s history to reflect this American ideal. I will continue to fight, much like my predecessors before me, to make voting an equal opportunity regardless of race, status, and age.”

When your son slashes tires to stop people from voting and you refuse to condemn his actions and include him on your staff, you loose all credibility concerning voting rights Ms. Moore.

Good News for Babies - Sen Taylor not so sure

2011-10-21T13:11:00.000-05:00

The Wisconsin Senate took a preemptive step to save babies from being aborted if the federal health insurance called Obamacare should be come law.

The debate was interesting in that the two sides couldn't agree on the focus of the bill, which was saving babies lives. Sen. Lena Taylor made the argument that this bill wasn't needed because state law is already quite clear concerning state funds and abortion. If that was the case then it seems to me that it would be an easy to choice to support the bill, but the senator from Milwaukee chose not to.

Here's something that has always bothered me. Sen. Taylor often touts her Christian faith in tweets and on her facebook page. Many other democrats are not afraid of expressing their Christian beliefs, this includes non politicians. In the black churches it is considered a compliment if a politician makes an appearance during the campaign season. None of this is bad on the surface.

What is troubling for me is how as a Christian you don't have any problem supporting laws that favor abortion. This includes not only the politician but pastors who will allow pro-choice politicians in their pulpits. This incongruity screams out at me.

Girl Got Her Thang On

2011-10-18T23:42:00.000-05:00

Rep. Tamara Grigsby had herself a fancy new doo and her "thang on" at today's Assembly session. When a motion she proposed failed Grigsby took the unusual stand of objecting to a usual unanimous request to move legislation along.

This caught the usually fleet tongued Speaker Pro Tempore Bill Kramer in mid sentence. Then as business as unusual continued the Dems asked to stand informal. Things got quite heated on the floor as you could hear Ms. Grigsby yelling at Dem leaders on the still running WisEye feed. When the situation broke down the Dems asked for a "brief" caucus. After an hour wait and what I bet was a knockdown drag out caucus Rep. Grigsby asked to withdraw her objection and the bill passed.

Senate Fail

2011-10-18T15:03:00.002-05:00

The Wisconsin Senate and likely the House will stifle the growth of the school choice program to only Milwaukee and Racine. According to the JSOnline this vote was a unanimous voice vote. I believe this is a poor choice.

Gotta Grudge?

2011-10-18T13:51:00.000-05:00

State Senator Chris Larson voted against the confirmation of his 2010 primary opponent, Jeff Plale, for railroad commissioner. I'm sure he had a great reason like Jeff said something bad about me during our election or maybe Jeff didn't give me a care basket of food when I was in Illinois.

Biddle Dribble #5 - Milwaukee's Queen

2011-10-18T13:23:00.000-05:00

Reality is stranger than fiction. Milwaukee County Supervisor Eyon Biddle in his quest to move up the political ladder kissed another butt yesterday with this quote from his endless streams of press releases.

Supervisor Biddle in thanking Congresswoman Moore for her leadership on behalf of Milwaukee County residents says,

“There is no doubt that Congresswoman Moore is the queen of Milwaukee. She has worked tirelessly for decades to advance our community and is the standard bearer for elected officials,” Supervisor Biddle said. “I’m excited to support the American Jobs Act, along with the Biddle-Lipscomb Ready to Work initiative, to bring thousands of jobs to Metropolitan Milwaukee.”

This is the next generation of leadership being presented to Milwaukee.

Alderman Hines to Housing Authority?

2011-10-15T12:20:00.000-05:00

According to the Milwaukee Drum, Mayor Barrett has lost what may be his stiffest competition as word on the street is that Milwaukee Common Council President and Alderman from the15th District Willie Hines is set to become the next Secretary of the Milwaukee Housing Authority.

This will also set up a battle for a change in the Common Council leadership. Could be some interesting political game-man-ship going on.

Biddle Dribble #4

2011-10-13T00:02:00.000-05:00

Milwaukee County Supervisor Eyon Biddle, Sr. has decided that not only should the privilege of serving on the Milwaukee County Board be a full time job, it should be the only job one has.

Supervisor Biddle believes that there should be an "advisory referendum" concerning the employment of county supervisors. I somewhat agree with the prolific press release supervisor.

Only I say, put it all on the line and not as an advisory referendum, but as a real referendum. Give the people of Milwaukee County a real voice in how their government is run.

Lets add an option to go to a part time board. If you can't do the job on a part time basis, it could be because you are involving yourself in areas where you shouldn't be involved.

How far would you take this effort Supervisor? Would that include outside business investments like being a landlord? What would be the penalty? Would you make someone quite one of the two jobs or divest themselves?

Would you expand this idea to all politicians in Milwaukee who serve? What about lawyers who serve in the State Assembly or Senate? How about running for office other than supervisor, would you allow that?

I'd suggest you tread lightly Supervisor Biddle. With this can of worms you want to open you may get more than you bargained for.

Walker Recall

2011-10-12T23:34:00.000-05:00

I'm not a fan of the recent rash of recalls. I believe recalls have a purpose and should used sparingly and for malfeasance in office.

I do believe the time and money could be used for a better purpose, say helping businesses (other than media) and individuals cope with our tough economic times.

Jeff Fitzgerald In

2011-10-11T13:14:00.000-05:00

Assembly Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald has jumped in the fray to become the next US Senator for Wisconsin.

Rep. Fitzgerald is from Horicon, home of the great marsh. He's been at the forefront of the current battle in Madison and has done an admirable job.

With this announcement he will be giving up his assembly seat so we will see a new Assembly Speaker in the next legislature. Early favorite - Robin Vos.

MPS Northwest Secondary Mess

2011-10-11T12:48:00.002-05:00

The logo's almost right. Northwest Secondary School abruptly closed down their 9th and 10th grades this week, moving 400 kids to other schools.

The official reason is that it couldn't find enough certified staff to teach at the school. That has me scratching my head. They couldn't find enough teachers with layoffs and college graduates? What the heck did they do for the five weeks school has been in session?

A bit of a different take I have is concerning budgets. One of the complaints against the choice program is that they remove students after the Third Friday in September, the "count day" for how many students attend a particular school and thus how much money each school receives for their budget. The grip continues that a school is still credited with the student even though they no longer attend and the new school is burdened with additional students but not the resources to compensate them.

I've asked the following question before and I'll toss it out again. In MPS each school has their own budgets which are presumably set by the Third Friday counts. When students move from one to school to another the same scenario that public school only supporters complain about takes place. With the situation at Northwest, they have been credited with 400 students who no longer attend and these students will be attending other MPS schools who now have additional students but haven't been financially compensated. What happens with the finances between the different schools? Does Northwest keep the extra money or does it goes to the school that the students transferred to?

But the bigger question is concerning the students. How the heck do you not know before school starts that you don't have enough teachers for two full grades and 400 students? Their education's been interrupted including their extra curricular activities.

Finally, where are the elected officials in this mess? They are way to quiet.

Jeff Spence - this is in your 2nd School Board District, your up for re-election in April.
Larry Miller - maybe instead of spending time protesting a successful school like Messmer you should be concentrating on your elected duties in MPS.
Ald. Davis - nada
Mayor Barrett - zilch
State Representative Fields - quiet
State Senator Lena Taylor - you talk about everything else - missing an opportunity here

When people call for changes in MPS, this will be a major playing card in the discussion, especially if no plausible explanation comes forward.

Milwaukee streetcar debate heats up

2011-10-06T22:06:00.000-05:00

Here's a debate that needs to stay on the front burner. It's my hope that all County Supervisors and Milwaukee Alderman take a second look and decide that with the help of Rep. Gwen Moore the money will be moved to the County Bus system.

Biddle Dribble #3

2011-10-06T21:56:00.000-05:00

Here's another press release from Supervisor Biddle.

Milwaukee, WI – Milwaukee County Supervisor Eyon Biddle, Sr., is thanking the cast and crew of Andre Lee Ellis’ production, “Tellin’ It Like It ‘Tis” for a wonderful community production.

“I was personally inspired by the message in this play,” Supervisor Biddle said. “Andre Lee Ellis is an artistic genius and a great man. He and the talented cast of Tellin’ It Like It ‘Tis are doing a great job.”

Supervisor Biddle, with help from local community organizations, helped sponsor tickets for 200 residents to attend the production, which ran September 22, 23, 24, 25, 29, and 30 and October 1 and 2 at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Center, located in Biddle’s Supervisory District.

“I’ve gotten positive responses from community members that attended,” Supervisor Biddle added. “This is the type of event that we need to support in large numbers, and I’m happy that so many people were inspired and moved to attend.”

News reports have said that Supervisor Biddle is on board the anti-streetcar train. For that we give him a two thumbs up.

Biddle Dribble #2

2011-10-05T11:25:00.000-05:00

In another case of working hard to prove his importance and the need for full time status of the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, Eyon Biddle sent out a press release because he spoke to students at ITT Technical Institute and the Milwaukee Bar Association.

Topics of discussion, "the many things he has done since being elected to the county board" and "his ‘Ban the Box’ resolution, which was recently adopted by the County Board, and other legislation pertaining to discrimination against individuals convicted of a crime."

2011-10-04T17:40:00.000-05:00

One of the benefits of the success Russell Wilson is having this season with the Wisconsin Badgers will be recruiting in the future for the UW-Madison football team. It's been said that top notch QB's wouldn't attend Madison because of the run heavy offense. Despite being overshadowed by running backs Wisconsin QB's have actually done quite well for themselves as far as the NFL goes.

Wilson's performance this year may change the way QB's look at the Badgers football team and how a passing QB can fit nicely into the football scheme at UW.

Lena Taylor & Campaign Finances

2011-09-29T15:52:00.000-05:00

Is It All About the Money?

My state Senator Lena Taylor is in the midst of raising funds for her re-election campaign. She's using all the tools available including facebook and twitter to promote her efforts. These are laudable and legal.

What concerns me is the recent attack by Senator Taylor against a business in her district which supports conservative candidates. Her call for a boycott of a gas station / convenience store because of campaign contributions is very unsettling and borders on the illegal. And I don't believe I'm exaggerating the importance of this.

As Senator Taylor is in full fund raising mode is she using her position and bully pulpit (I use this as a generic term) to inhibit potential opponents from doing the same. The gadfly senator is allowed by the black media in Milwaukee to go unfettered and even supported in calling for boycotts for job producing firms. In this weeks Milwaukee Courier Senator Taylor tries to shake her job restricting rhetoric with an Editorial entitled "What Wisconsin needs now ... is jobs." The Milwaukee Community Journal is quiet as a church mouse on the issue. Eric Von on WMCS did talk about the issue and he and all the callers I heard supported the Senator.

I don't understand the thinking. Support a boycott against job producers and continue to complain that there aren't enough jobs in the community. I don't think you can have it both ways.

Before I go further on the political ramification on Taylor's boycott calls, I have to disclose that the business she has attacked did allow me to put up a banner when I ran for the Wisconsin Assembly last year. Neither the owner nor any employees gave me any financial support.

Sen. Glenn Grothman has announced today a plan to introduce legislation that would eliminate putting some one's place of employment on campaign finance forms. I support this change 100%. In fact if I were to run for a political office again I would willfully not put the employment of campaign contributors on the GAB forms.

What will stop Lena from continuing to call for financial retribution against her political opponents? What entrepreneur will want to set up shop in her Senate District knowing that she will use her position to damage their business?

What I'd like to see is the District Attorney of Milwaukee or the Attorney General of Wisconsin investigate Sen. Taylor's abuse of her political office by using that position to financially harm those who don't politically agree with the Senator and to make it more difficult for an opponent to build a successful run for the 4th District Senate seat. I don't take this position lightly but neither should Sen. Taylor's attempted extortion.

Calls for Sen. Taylor to be removed from Joint Finance

2011-09-23T02:39:00.000-05:00

Sens. Glenn Grothman and Alberta Darling have both called for the removal of Sen. Lena Taylor from the powerful Joint Finance Committee. Sen. Darling is the co-chairman of the committee.

The problem seems to be Sen. Taylor's recent call for a boycott of Georgia Pacific products because it's a Koch Brothers company and what Sen. Darling calls "her total disrespect for the process, disrespect for rules of law and disrespect for the process of doing legislation."

Sen. Taylor is a throwback to the Gwen Moore days of the state legislature as she believes the longer and louder she talks the more valid her points are. Someone needs to tell her, that's not the case. Hey at least she hasn't broken down and cried because no one would listen to her. Sen. Taylor is passionate in her beliefs but that is not an excuse for her action.

I often watch JFC hearings on WisEye and at one of the hearings she actually said something to the effect that people came to listen to her and her opinions. I thought that summed up her views, she's actually there to hear others.

As to her comments about Georgia Pacific, Sen. Taylor could not be more wrong. Here she sits on the most powerful legislative committee and she calls for a boycott of a company that employs about 2800 state residents.

That's bad enough, but I wonder how Sen. Taylor can help in bringing any business to her district if they must pass a political correctness test. If you ran a business, how willing would you be to set up operation on Milwaukee's north side knowing that the state senator would call for a trashing of your business because you may be a conservative. It's not only the business owners but their employees also as people who give money to political candidates are suppose to have their place of employment listed on GAB forms.

It's tough to make a case that we want you set up shop only if you and your employees believe in our political philosophy. I doubt the people who work for Georgia Pacific care one bit about who and what the Koch Brothers support as long as they receive their paychecks as promised.

The sad reality is that Sen. Taylor is somewhat immune from any constituent backlash as her histrionics are encouraged and applauded as "standing up for the community." Helping bring jobs and not chasing them away would be a better way to serve the citizens of Milwaukee.

Nephilim and Unions

2011-09-21T01:35:00.000-05:00

I like reading the Bible. Part of the excitement of the Bible is finding nuggets of truth and how they apply to today.

So one of those quirky truths or at least interesting oddities is the six finger fist the Wisconsin public unions are using as their banner in the battle between them and other working people.

Genesis 6 mentions an interesting time when angels somehow were able to marry and impregnate women. The how and why's aren't important here, but the results of these unholy encounters are.

The Nepihilim or giants were the result. Easily the most famous of them was Goliath. An often passed over fact is that Goliath had 4 brothers (David grabbed 5 stones thinking he might have to battle whole clan (1Sam 17:40).

One of the interesting characteristics of the Giants was that they had 6 fingers and toes on each hand and foot. We learn of this in 2Sam 21:20 and in stories from around the world. It's believed that the greeting of the American Indians of a raised hand was so they could count the number of fingers on a persons hand.

So how does this pertain to the madness in Madison earlier this year?

Well with the their six finger banner prominently displayed, the fleeing 14 hiding behind state lines and the boisterous behavior it's not very difficult to correlate the unions with the Philistines and with their determined and workmanlike demeanor during this time, the similarity to the Jews isn't a stretch for the conservatives / Republicans.

The blow between the eyes of the unions was Act 10. Was it a death blow like the stone that hit Goliath? Not really, it was more like a life saving act for the state of Wisconsin. Either way I find the six finger fist a freaky logo no matter how you look at it.

Biddle Dribble #1

2011-09-21T00:29:00.000-05:00

One of the newer Milwaukee County Supervisors is Eyon Biddle, Sr. Eyon has taken a page from some prominent Milwaukee legislators and is delivering what seems to be daily press releases about him not doing his job.

The Biddle Dribble will be our look at this former SEIU political director's push to move on from his full time gig as a county supervisor.

We'll start with his latest attack, this one on Sheriff David Clarke. Eyon doesn't like the "cowboy" image the Sheriff portrays. What I think Eyon would be more comfortable with is a soft on crime, coddle the criminal type of crime fighter.

According to the "dribble" the best way to handle convicted criminals is go the progressive route, whatever that means. As Sheriff Clarke worries about the safety of his employees and law abiding citizens, Supervisor Biddle is more concerned with the well being of those who've broken laws.

What I'm thinking is that Supervisor Biddle should spend his time working for the citizens of the county and leaving the law enforcement to the Sheriff. The more Biddle Dribble's, the more he proves that the County Supervisor's position should be a part time gig.

Berlin loses battle over school nickname, logo

2011-09-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

The legislature should act on this right away and rescind this law.

The community should have the right to choose their logo.

This is Cool

2011-09-19T00:03:00.000-05:00

Re-enacting a league of their own

This might be fun to go see. Still like the movie.

Milwaukee's Mayor needs jobs help.

2011-09-14T21:17:00.000-05:00

From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Barrett calls on Congress to pass Obama's jobs plan. Isn't it time the Mayor started to take some responsibility for the dismal job numbers in Milwaukee?

He actually had the nerve to march in a protest with union workers over the summer to try to get jobs.

Really?

What's just as bad is that the liberal community allows it's elected officials to get away with such nonsense and continues to vote them in, while continuing to complain about their issues.Elected officials need to man up to the job or get out of the way and let someone else give it a shot.

Break is Over

2011-09-14T16:15:00.001-05:00

I've been a bit quiet, some of it by design, some of it beyond my circumstances.

My computer has held me hostage. First it died and it took over 2 weeks to get it back running. Then after reloading programs and rearranging data I got a scary virus that again shut me down for a week. I'm close to getting caught up so I can start posting again.

Personally I had to make some decisions if I even wanted to continue and in what form. I've decided to stay the course. I also had hernia surgery and that has been somewhat uncomfortable. I'm can now sit up and actually put some coherent thoughts together.

While I've been gone prayer has been a major focus and I'm excited about what lies ahead for me. More will be shared as it becomes wise to do so.

Labor Day

2011-09-05T12:08:00.001-05:00

Happy Labor Day to those currently employed and a Labor Day wish for those currently looking for work that those desires will be fulfilled soon.

Re-Carpetbagging

2011-07-26T01:46:00.000-05:00

Democrat Fred Kessler currently serves as the State Assemblyman for the 12th District in Wisconsin. With the recent redistricting he will live in the 22nd Assembly District, which is strongly Republican.

While a guest on WMCS with Eric Von, Rep. Kessler let slip that he had talked to his wife and they were planning to move back into the 12th Assembly district, which is strongly Democrat.

The 12th district opening would have been a great opportunity for the black community to pick up another seat, but it's my guess that the Democratic party will support Fred rather than look for a some new blood and the black community will not do anything to take advantage of the opening.

Wisconsin residents #4 in taxes paid

2011-07-22T13:24:00.000-05:00

4. Wisconsin
Taxes paid by residents as pct. of income: 11%
Total state and local taxes collected: $41.7 billion
Pct. of total taxes paid by residents: 77.9%
Pct. of total taxes paid by non-residents: 22.1%

According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Wisconsin relies more on income and property taxes for its revenue than most states. In fact, both are approximately 25% higher than the national averages. The state receives a smaller portion of federal money than most others, leaving little room for this money to offset state spending. Worst still, taxes on industrial property owners rank among the bottom half, and often the bottom third, of the country, while residential taxes are among the greatest. According to a study by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, Wisconsin's middle class pays a bigger share of government spending than any other state, except for New York.

What I'd like to see is comprehensive study of all taxes paid to put this in proper perspective. Either way I'm glad the current leaders in the state are holding the line on additional taxes.

Redistricting Thought

2011-07-22T00:41:00.000-05:00

There's been a lot of whining about the state redistricting by those whose ox is being gored. Of course I'm referring to the Democrats. What I find interesting is that I spent an hour or so listening to Milwaukee County's latest hearing and am currently about 2 hours into the state senate debate.

I swear it's like living in two different time/space dimensions. The arguments remain the same, the faces and political alliances are different. In Milwaukee the conservatives are complaining about gerrymandering and on the state level liberals.

On the state level, Rep. Fred Kessler is considered "an expert" on redistricting. I was told that Fred likes to play with redistricting the same way some folks like to do crossword or sudoku puzzles in the morning. That's not a swipe at Rep. Kessler because we need those type of people.

What I do find a bit disingenuous are the current quotes from Rep. Kessler, "I think this is the closest case that I have ever seen where it could be thrown out, because of partisan redistricting. and those are just among the things that would be the base for it." to the media and what he said in a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Opinion piece from Aug. 8, 2009:

"I am a partisan, and I know how to draw legislative district lines to the benefit of the Democratic Party. I will do so if I have the opportunity."

Rep. Kessler also testified at a hearing of the Assembly Committee on Election and Campaign Reform and said the same thing. You can check it out here at Wisconsin Eye at the 1 hour and 29 minute mark. He also disses the idea that independent or non partisan committee's can draw districts any better than our current system.

Well the voters of Wisconsin denied him and the Democrat party that opportunity and have given the Republicans the chance to draw the lines to the benefit of their political party. As they say, that's the way ball bounces.

Shack Up Benefit

2011-07-21T23:47:00.000-05:00

The Milwaukee County Finance and Audit Committee OK'd insurance benefits for both same and opposite domestic partners. One of the newest members of the board, Supervisor Eyon Biddle, Sr. said that this benefit should help the county in employee recruitment. I hope he's right and someone with better qualifications and common sense will be recruited and replace him this coming Spring.

Happy 4th Of July

2011-07-04T10:06:00.000-05:00

Wi Supreme Leader

2011-06-28T23:55:00.001-05:00

There is no doubt from any clear thinking individual that the Wisconsin Supreme Court needs new leadership and with that a new attitude.

There's been some very interesting suggestions as to how this could happen and what the new structure would be. For me that's in a future blog, but one thing is clear to me - that the person who seems to stand up for the institution, is levelheaded and right for the job of Chief Justice is Justice Patience Drake Roggensack.

During the siege at the capitol some protesters were causing damage to the doors of the Supreme Court. One guess who confronted the protesters and "made" them stop their shenanigans.

In the latest craziness behind the scenes at the Supreme Court, Chokegate, it's believed that PDR is the Justice who intervened in Justice Bradley's physical aggression toward Justice Prosser and physically pulled Bradley away from Prosser.

It seems that Justice Roggensack is taking the bull by the horns and showing an innate leadership so sadly lacking in the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Dysfunctional Justice

2011-06-25T22:37:00.000-05:00

The Wisconsin Supreme Court needs to get it's act together.

It will be interesting to see what story is true the first one spread by the Milwaukee Journal via a joint investigation by Wisconsin Public Radio and the Wisconsin Center for Investigative Journalism (Bill Lueders) or the updated version.

Ann Althouse seems to have a very balanced approach to the situation along with the alternative sequence of events.

We're 49

2011-06-22T07:37:00.000-05:00

Wisconsin will soon become the 49th State to allow some sort of concealed carry of firearms. The assembly joined the state senate in passing the bill which is on it's way to being signed by Gov. Scott Walker.

I agree with this bill.

Father's Day

2011-06-19T12:05:00.000-05:00

There are certain days when much can be said and then there are days when much should be done. For a dad, wisdom dictates the balance between the two.

My wish for Father's Day is that each dad takes his responsibility seriously and that each child, no matter what age, has father figure in their life they can look up to.

With Love to all the dads, including the best Dad, my Heavenly Father.

New Residency Rules Kicking In

2011-06-15T11:06:00.000-05:00

From a GAB email I received

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION

June 13, 2011 Reid Magney, 608-267-7887

New Residency Rules for Recall Elections:

Tuesday Is Deadline for July 12 Election

MADISON, WI – Tuesday, June 14 is the new deadline for residency in order to vote in special and recall elections (or primaries) scheduled for July 12, 2011.

Wisconsin’s new Voter ID Law, which went into effect June 8, requires a person to be a resident of a district for 28 consecutive days before an election in order to be eligible to vote, said Kevin J. Kennedy, director and general counsel of the Wisconsin Government Accountability Board, which administers elections. The previous residency requirement was 10 days.

“If you move to a new district after Tuesday, June 14, you will not be able to vote in your new district on July 12,” said Kennedy. “The new law allows you to vote at your former polling place until you establish residency in your new district.”

Kennedy said the same rules apply in the three State Senate districts where recall elections (or primaries) will be held on July 19, as well as the subsequent general recall elections. In addition, the time period for In-Person Absentee Voting has been shortened. It begins on the Monday, two weeks before the election, and ends the Friday before the election. Here are the election dates, residency deadlines and absentee dates for this summer’s scheduled elections:

Election Date	Residency Deadline	In-Person Absentee Voting Starts	In-Person Absentee Voting Ends
July 12, 2011	June 14, 2011	June 27, 2011	July 8, 2011
July 19, 2011	June 21, 2011	July 5, 2011	July 15, 2011
August 9, 2011	July 12, 2011	July 25, 2011	August 5, 2011
August 16, 2011	July 19, 2011	August 1, 2011	August 12, 2011

Voters who want to know whether they live in one of the districts (listed below) where there are recall or special elections may call their local municipal clerk or visit the Voter Public Access website: http://vpa.wi.gov, said Elections Division Administrator Nathaniel E. Robinson.

“Some of the State Senate districts include parts of counties, which can be confusing. Voters with questions may go to the website and put in their name or address to see which legislative districts they live in,” said Robinson. “They will also see the polling place where they are registered. Once we know who all the candidates are in a few weeks, voters in districts with special and recall elections will be able to see sample ballots as well.”

Recall and Special Elections are scheduled on July 12 and August 9 in the following legislative districts and counties:

Senate District 2 – Brown, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano and Waupaca.

Senate District 8 – Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington and Waukesha.

Senate District 10 – Burnett, Dunn, Pierce, Polk and St. Croix.

Senate District 14 – Adams, Columbia, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Marquette, Outagamie, Waupaca and Waushara.

Senate District 18 – Dodge, Fond du Lac and Winnebago.

Senate District 32 – Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe, Richland and Vernon.

Assembly District 48 – Dane (Special Election).

Recall Elections are scheduled on July 19 and August 16 in the following legislative districts and counties:

Senate District 12 – Florence, Forest, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Oneida, Shawano and Vilas.

Senate District 22 – Kenosha and Racine.

Senate District 30 – Brown, Marinette, Oconto and Shawano.

While the time period for residency has changed to 28 consecutive days under the new residency rules in the Voter ID Law, other principles for establishing residency remain unchanged:

Temporary absence does not affect residency. If you are away from your permanent residence for the weekend, that time still counts if you intended to return.
Temporary residences cannot be used for voting. You do not gain residency while in a place for temporary purposes only.
Residence may be established with the following documents that contain your full name and a current address: driver license, state-issued identification card, employer-issued photo identification card (not a business card), property tax bill, residential lease, university or college fee or ID card with photograph, utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government-issued check.

Persons who meet the 28-consecutive-day residency requirement may still register to vote on Election Day at the polling place.

Under the Voter ID Law, voters must be asked to present a photo ID when they receive a ballot, but will not be required to present a photo ID to receive a ballot until the 2012 Spring Primary Election. At any election before then, a voter who does not have a photo ID will receive an informational document explaining the requirements of the new law.

###

The Government Accountability Board (G.A.B.) is responsible for administration and enforcement of campaign finance, elections, ethics and lobbying laws in Wisconsin. The G.A.B. is made up of six non-partisan, former judges and is supported by an agency of non-partisan staff members.

Isn't that Special

2011-06-08T16:49:00.000-05:00

I have to admit I'm getting a bit, well honestly a whole bunch, ticked off. Who do these people think they are? Have they no shame, no common courtesy or sense? Just because you don't yell or scream or act like an pampered kid doesn't give you the justification to ruin someone's time of recognition, especially a group like Special Olympics. I've got a great friend who's given an enormous amount of time to SO and the stories and events I've attended are excellent.

Maybe the Bozo's should give some of their time, energy and money to Special Olympics to prove the Gov. wrong.

Radio Haze

2011-06-03T11:58:00.002-05:00

When I have an option I usually listen to WMCS, 1290am on the radio dial. The reason is that I understand the conservative viewpoint and I'm trying like heck to give the liberal point of view a chance.

This last couple of weeks I've been giving the conservative stations, WTMJ and WISN, a bit longer listen. I've come to two conclusions.

WISN is loud.

WTMJ seems to have to adopted a new "twitter" format. Very short segments of information separated by short commercial breaks. I'm not a big fan of this formating choice. It seems that by time the hosts lay out their premise it's time for a break and good phone exchanges are cut short. It seems to be a very choppy flow of the radio show.

I still don't agree with most of the viewpoints expressed on WMCS. I find myself either giggling at the wrong information (successful propaganda of the left leaning) and the absurd conclusions listeners voice or yelling at the radio.

Either way I'm glad we have choices here in Milwaukee and that the shows are locally produced.

Weiner to Wisconsin

2011-06-03T10:39:00.001-05:00

Looks like the auto's packed and ready to roll. I'm wondering how much praise will be garnished on the congressman at this weekend's Democratic convention being held in the shadow of one of the states big brats, Usinger's.

UPDATE: Looks like Rep. Weiner is not heading to Wisconsin. Guess he doesn't want to be grilled.

Bozo's - no disrespect to the Clown meant

2011-06-03T01:36:00.001-05:00

I guess if you hang around the Capitol long enough you feel you have the right to run things. You're wrong.

It's interesting that the Democrats with their lack of professionalism have set a tone in Madison that feeds the masses to being rude and obnoxious. The "people" won't even listen to the legislators who are on their side. I would have to think that deep down inside the Democratic legislators have to feel some embarrassment for the way they've set the tone in Madison.

What I find telling is that the crowd boos this line from Sen. Jauch "elections matter". I guess these folks don't believe that and will act in a mob induced frenzy until someone gets hurt or worse. Some of the malcontents feel that they are more important then they really are.

Take a watch on Wisconsin Eye, the first 15 minutes would be a great civics lesson for students though the disruptions continue for about an hour. And by that I mean in way to not act.

According to WisPolitics "individuals who were the first to stand up and disrupt the proceedings were former UW Regent Jesus Salas, Milwaukee Public School Board member Larry Miller, Racine high school teacher Al Levie and Christine Neumann-Ortíz, Voces de la Frontera executive director." You may wonder why students act the way they do in public schools.

No Blood Today

2011-06-01T22:26:00.000-05:00

It's sort of interesting but I was a meeting tonight and someone who works at the capitol was telling us about this group who comes to the capitol at noon every day and sings "We Shall Overcome" and a tune from a kids song with new words. The story was funny and he mentioned that they were loud.

Well our here's a story in today's Wisconsin State Journal stating that this group was disruptive enough to foil a blood drive.

Nice going - and guess what, it's not just your house.

Full Court

2011-05-31T12:42:00.000-05:00

Joanne Kloppenburg has conceded the Supreme Court election to Justice Prosser. This was a wise decision on her part, but from listening to her press conference it was also a difficult one for her.

No Greater Love

2011-05-30T11:01:00.001-05:00

The Bible states in John 15:13 "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." It is good that we remember those who've showed the true meaning of love to their fellow Americans.
I thank you and am grateful.

Wisconsin No Call List

2011-05-29T15:31:00.001-05:00

It's that time again. If you choose not to be contacted by telephone solicitations you can click here to sign up.

Now if you'd like to not be bothered by political solicitations and robo calls, well you're out of luck.

Good for MPS

2011-05-28T08:48:00.000-05:00

The Milwaukee School Board extended the contract of Superintendent Gregory Thornton for two more years and that's a good thing. I do believe that both Dr.Michael Bonds and Dr. Thornton are the right people at the right time to make the right changes at MPS.

I don't agree with everything that's going on right now and some of their stands, but I also think they are more pragmatic than what I've seen and heard from MPS management in the past. It would be wise to allow them to truly think out of the box and give them the opportunity to make MPS the best possible school system they can.

I hope to expand on this in the near future with some of my own out of the box ideas and views. As I've said before, getting the school board to come along for the ride is the first step of any MPS transformation.

This is a wonderful idea

2011-05-26T19:37:00.001-05:00

Rep. Kramer, Sen. Vukmir: Legislators propose increasing court access

Rapture

2011-05-21T03:18:00.002-05:00

I fully believe that a rapture of the church will occur. Will it happen in the next day or so? I doubt it very much, the Bible say we don't know the time, but as a believer in the imminence of the rapture I can't say no for sure.

Here's one of my favorite songs by one of my favorite Christian music artists,
Charlie Peacock.

Osama Bin Ladin Shot Dead

2011-05-01T23:09:00.000-05:00

There are consequences to actions, he paid.

Abele almost got it right.

2011-04-27T23:34:00.000-05:00

Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele could have made a stand for the citizens of the County by vetoing the inane redistricting proposal supported by the Milwaukee County Board. I do believe that they showed their disconnect with a majority of residents.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is right editorial published today.

I wonder how many signatures it would take to put a smaller board referendum on a ballot. From what I've read it is allowable to change the number of county board members after a redistricting is done as long as the number is reduced.

May be something to look into.

WIAA Membership to Determine Loosening of Transfer Restrictions

2011-04-26T12:59:00.000-05:00

The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association will have it's annual meeting tomorrow and one of the issues it will be taking up is the opportunity for students who transfer from one school to another after four consecutive semesters at the first school to practice with the team from the new school. It would still not allow them to play with the team for their junior year.

Some background on the issue is here.

I'm in favor of anything that will allow the student to stay active and for them and the parents to choose what they feel is in the best interest of the student.

I celebrate it every day.

2011-04-24T01:11:00.000-05:00

New Life

That is part of the transformation when you give your heart to Jesus.

May yours be safe and filled with Peace

The Event

2011-04-22T08:09:00.000-05:00

Here's what I'll be mostly thinking about today.

Recount Valley

2011-04-20T23:34:00.000-05:00

Joanne Kloppenburg has decided it is best for her to ask the State of Wisconsin for a recount in the recent Supreme Court race. The law offers the choice to do this at tax payer expense and she has chosen that route.

At today's press conference she stated that "we need to do what the law calls for and requires and in this case it requires a recount." If this is the type of Justice Ms. Kloppenburg would have been, I'm doubly pleased with the results of the election so far. You see, the law doesn't "require" a recount, it gives her the option of asking for one at tax payer expense. That's a huge difference and I don't believe one needs to be a lawyer to understand that difference.

As I stated before I was hoping Asst. Atty. Gen. Kloppenburg would not ask for the recount. It is highly unlikely she will change the 7,300 vote deficit to make a difference in the outcome and municipalities will be struck with an additional cost to do the recount. I think it would have better for her to do what was best for the state of Wisconsin.

Yet I can understand her reluctance. I'm sure the pressure from the Democrat party was large, same from the Unions who supported her. I can see where they said if you don't keep the pressure (what little there is) up we will not support you in any future races. Plus the fact that she has wanted to be a judge for quite a while and this may be her last chance to reach that goal. It's difficult to see a dream fade away, especially one so close to being accomplished.

Even when the recount is over and Justice Prosser is again declared the winner of the race, we know that those who opposed him will not accept the outcome. Luckily their refusal to accept the truth of the vote won't change the outcome.

Power and Noise to the People

2011-04-17T13:41:00.000-05:00

While watching the videos on the Althouse blog, I got to wondering how State Senator Lena Taylor of the AWOL 14 fame would react if a group of protesters came to her "Education and Health Care in the Budget: A Milwaukee Town Hall Meeting" and acted the way her friends in Madison did on Saturday.

I imagine myself sitting in the sanctuary of Greater New Birth Church and ringing my mom's cowbell as each speaker tried to make their statements and inform the gathered crowd about their view of Gov. Walker's budget. Annoying those who came to listen Dr. Gregory Thornton, Sen. Taylor, Eric Gass, and Dr. Patricia McManus.

Well I'll tell you, it wouldn't happen. I believe that both sides should be able to express themselves and that screaming and making extraneous noise is not the way to show you care about issues. If I do go on Monday night, I'll be respectful yet discerning in what I hear and say.

In her press release Sen. Taylor mentions that some (presumably Republicans) are trying to stifle the voice of the people with hearings that went from 10am - 6pm, here are the meetings and times from the last JFC hearings when the democrats were in control.

JFC Hearings

The Joint Committee on Finance will be holding hearings around the state to hear your input on the budget. We encourage you to attend a meeting in your area! See the dates and locations below:
Sparta
Monday, March 23
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Milwaukee Metro
Wednesday, March 25
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Eau Claire
Friday, March 27
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Racine
Monday, March 30
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Appleton
Wednesday, April 1
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Cambridge
Friday, April 3
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

I'll call you on that one Sen. Taylor. Time to come clean Sen. Taylor, I hope in your home church you won't be "stretching the truth".

The Palm Sunday Prophecy

2011-04-17T12:27:00.000-05:00

As a bit of a prophecy buff, Palm Sunday, also known as The Triumphal Entry, holds a special place in my spiritual interests. Often missed in most messages on this day is the background and true significance of what happened.

It starts with the end times prophecy Daniel received from Gabriel described in Daniel 9:24-27, in particular vs 25.

(24) Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.
(25) Know therefore and understand, [that] from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince [shall be] seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.
(26) And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof [shall be] with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.
(27) And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make [it] desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

I believe the above prophecy sets the end time table.

Daniel's prophecy was given to him in 538BC and it told the exact date of Palm Sunday or the coming of the Mashiach Nagid (the Messiah the King), on April 6, 32AD. God's Word is alive and true.

The commandment to rebuild Jerusalem was issued by Artaxerxes in 445BC (Neh 2:5-8). Without getting over technical here (for space considerations) the 7 weeks + 62 weeks comes to 173,880 days. Jesus knew the importance of this date and he set in motion the fulfillment of this prophecy and Zechariah 9:9 by telling his disciples to get a particular donkey (Luke 19:30). He then rides into Jerusalem on this donkey as the crowd sings Psalm 118:26.

The Pharisees understood this date and the Spiritual importance of what was happening. They tell Jesus to stop what was happening. Jesus held them accountable for not accepting this day and its significance.

The rest of the prophecy is currently unfolding. I believe the next major event in prophecy will be the Rapture which will set up vs27 and the final week (7 years) of the prophecy which many people call the Tribulation.

As a famous newsman might say, now you know the rest of the story.

Detroit-erdam

2011-04-15T22:51:00.003-05:00

Could Detroit be the new Amsterdam -- a city where prostitution and marijuana are both legalized to help attract young people and turn the troubled city’s prospects around?
Why not, barrister and occasional mayoral candidate Geoffrey Fieger said during a taping of “Michigan Matters” on what he would do if he walked in Detroit Mayor Dave Bing’s shoes and tried to address the city’s woes.

Interesting idea, but what caught my attention was the following quote: "We would attract young people,” Fieger said. “You make Detroit a fun city. A place they want to live and they would flock here.”

Yeah I did a double take, he said flock.

Justice Prosser

2011-04-15T22:41:00.000-05:00

Justice David Prosser will continue in that role for the next ten years. That pleases me for a couple of reason.

First of all, I've met the Justice and each time he was a gentleman and very kind. He also honored his position during my run for the Assembly. When we met neither he nor I would talk about the case of my opponent, Fred Kessler, which was being heard by the Supreme Court.

Secondly, I agree with his philosophy of being a judicial conservative.

Now if I were Joanne Kloppenburg, I would not move forward with a recount. The odds of her changing the outcome of the race are so low that any money the states spends would be wasted. And I think if she has any desire to run again for a judgeship, this would be a great way to tell the people of Wisconsin that she is more interested in them and their resources then her personal goals.

Some Truth

2011-04-11T01:58:00.000-05:00

I understand the battle, the fight and what's at stake. What I don't understand is how political types can throw their personal integrity aside. I'm talking both sides. I'd imagine it is sometimes uncomfortable to look into a mirror.

VOTE

2011-04-05T01:10:00.000-05:00

Here's who I'll be voting for later today.

Supreme Court - Justice Prosser. I've watched a couple of interview each candidate has give and one of the debates. Justice Prosser was not afraid to say who he was, a conservative politically and a judicial jurist. Ms. Kloppenburg was way to vague and said nothing to sway my vote. I mean admit who you are and let the people make the choice, your silence speaks very loud.

Milwaukee County Exec - Jeff Stone. One of the things that bothers me about Chris Abele is that when he talks on interviews and debates he doesn't look at those asking questions, he looks down. Both candidates say no increase in taxes which is good. Jeff Stone has the experience to do the job and I do believe he will serve the people of Milwaukee County well.

At Large Milwaukee School Board - Susan Schmidt. It's time for some new faces on the Milwaukee School Board. I think that Dr. Michael Bonds and Dr. Gregory Thornton are the right people at the right to save MPS. The board needs new people who are open to explore ideas that are way out of the box, those on the current board have shown that they are not open to putting the kids first. So it's time for change.

1st District Milwaukee School Board - Mark Sain. I tried to meet with Mr. Sain, but unfortunately that didn't work out. While his opponent has held the seat I think I've only been contacted by him and that by a mailing once. Mark Sain gets my vote for the reasons stated above, with one reservation. You are on the Milwaukee School Board, fix MPS and don't worry about choice, charter and virtual schools.

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Branch 18 - Christopher Lipscomb. This is an anyone but Pedro Colon vote. When Mr. Colon was a state representative he was a major player in one of the lowest actions I've ever seen in government. He will never get a vote or an endorsement from me.

A side note. I heard Eyon Biddle, a candidate for Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in District 10, on the radio this morning. A word of advice that you can take or not, it is not wise to call men you don't agree with evil. Attack their policies but not them as individuals. I mean really who are you to call someone like Governor Walker evil, that's a spiritual judgment which I doubt you are in a position to honestly make. And though your goals to increase jobs, fix the transportation system and parks is noble, remember you will be working with a County Exec who pledges to not raise taxes. You will need to make some hard choices and if you win I hope you are up to the task.

Can I borrow a $100

2011-04-05T00:27:00.000-05:00

Last night on Coast to Coast, Chuck Missler shared this. If I borrowed some money from you, say $100 and I told you I'd pay you back in 1 million seconds, I'd have 12 days to make good my word.

If I said I'd pay you back in 1 billion seconds, I'd have 32 years to come up with the cash.

If you gave me 1 trillion seconds, you'd be paid in 32,000 years.

Something to keep in mind when we're talking about government spending. With this in mind, can I borrow $100 with payment due in 1 trillion seconds?

Some great radio

2011-04-03T13:58:00.001-05:00

Chuck Missler is one of my favorite Bible teachers, my pastor Dr. Marc Erickson (he's a medical doctor) ranks right up there also.

Tonight on the syndicated Coast to Coast radio show, Mr. Missler will be George Noory's guest talking about current events and how they correlate to Bible prophecy and the end times.

Chuck is a very pragmatic and brings a fresh insight as he uses the "whole word of God" to shed light on what's happening and what will happen.

Happy Birthday Doris

2011-04-03T12:26:00.000-05:00

I'm not good at being a groupie. I tend to enjoy certain artists and one of those is Doris Day. What amazes me is that though she's been popular since the late 40's I've never read anything negative about her. I think that speaks volumes of what type of person I imagine her to be. I hope she's enjoying her birthday and good health.

Excellent Ad

2011-04-01T19:19:00.000-05:00

This is an outstanding ad. Kloppenburg should be embarrassed.

Shameful Sen. Larson Staffer

2011-03-28T21:51:00.000-05:00

Justin Sargent a staffer for State Senator Chris Larson uses his kids as props for a political argument. This is worst than Sargent offering money to a Hmong Cultural Center if an opponent drops out of his Assembly race.

h/t Playground Politics

Supreme Dysfunction

2011-03-20T23:01:00.000-05:00


Captain Shirley

A well known fact came to mainstream light today when the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel "broke" the story of a divided Wisconsin Supreme Court. Not only has the Supreme Court been at odds between themselves, they have been downright mean and vicious toward one another.

Now when a sports team is dysfunctional, when the locker room is tense and there is no hope for improvement the team makes a management change. That's right the manager takes the bullet, gets the blame and finds themselves looking for new employment.

I would suspect that if the Chief Justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court wanted, she could take this divided court and heal it. Now that would take some true leadership and some personal sacrifice. I wonder if Shirley Abrahamson has the intestinal fortitude to make that commitment to the people of the State of Wisconsin.

This recent scrum is not the first under Abrahamson. Here's a bit of what's gone on in the past courtesy of Milwaukee Magazine's 2005 Under Fire feature,

In years past, the Wisconsin Supreme Court has been dogged with tales of infighting and division, mostly centered around Abrahamson. In 1987, The Milwaukee Journal exposed these problems in a series entitled “Discord in the Court.” Former staffers and attorneys described a court that was rife with internal conflict and barely functional. “They claw at each other,” said one former clerk. “They are more preoccupied with one another than the law.” Even one justice anonymously dumped on Abrahamson: “In conference, she does nothing but give us the finger. She piddles all over our opinions in her dissents.” Such squabbling was blamed for low court productivity and for opinions written primarily as “reactions to other justices.” (Of the seven justices on board at this time, only Abrahamson remains.)

Maybe it's time Captain Abrahamson takes serious her role as Chief Justice and bring some semblance of order and respectability to the Wisconsin Supreme Court.