By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 19, 200
Sturgeon Bay is more than half way done with a number of minor street repairs. Another batch of city streets will see reconstruction tomorrow. The City of Sturgeon Bay Street Department will be preparing Douglas Avenue, Shiloh Road and Zenith Street for improvements. Shiloh Road from Division Road to the city limits and Zenith Street from Cove Road to Canal Road will be worked on if the weather permits.
Paving will begin the week of September 4. On the day of paving, there may not be driveway access at all times and residents may want to consider finding alternate parking, according to Public Works Director Jerry DeMarb.
He is confident that residents will be pleased with the results. Public Works apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. If you have any questions or concerns, you may speak with DeMarb at the Public Works Department. (920) 746-2912
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 19, 200
Responding to the needs of the local business community, the Sturgeon Bay campus of Northeast Wisconsin Technical College recently made significant upgrades to their welding lab. NWTC installed state-of-the-art Miller weld equipment. Dean of Students at NWTC Sturgeon Bay Bob Loss said the 16-station facility allows them to broaden their horizons and impress the bigger corporations and companies.
(Audio Here)
The Sturgeon Bay campus is working with the Workplace Learning Services team on the Green Bay campus to generate new business for the lab in the form of customized labor training for industrial clients. They also anticipate adding new classes open to the general public in the coming year. Door County Economic Development Corporation Economic Development Manager Sam Perlman said this program will service a major need in our community.
(Audio Here)
NWTC welding instructors and assistants will talk more about the improved welding program in the next story in this series on the need for welders in Northeast Wisconsin and how NWTC is providing numerous opportunities to interested students.
For more information or to request a tour of the new facility, contact Bob Loss, Dean of the Sturgeon Bay Campus of NWTC at 920-746-4901 or robert.loss@nwtc.edu .
By Eric Cullen DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 19, 200
For being a small community, Egg Harbor is a place that's continually entertaining visitors and working to make the village a better place to visit and live all around. Events and city planning are never laid to rest. The village will continue to celebrate the successful "Thursday Night Lights" event that has been going on since the end of June. "Taste of Egg Harbor" on the 23rd and "Moonlight Madness Sale" on the 30th will be the final "Thursday Night Lights" events of the season.
The "Taste of Egg Harbor" will feature food and beverage samples from the restaurants and cafes in the village, while the "Moonlight Madness Sale" will have outdoor tents around the village with end of the summer deals.
Along with all of the events that are going on there will also be new projects in the area. The Ames Cherryview Park and Pavilion are two great additions to the village.
(Audio Here)
Lawn chairs would be a terrific idea to see the performance at the new outdoor pavilion.
Newly appointed administrator of Egg Harbor, Josh VanLieshout, has his hands in over a half of a dozen projects for the village. One of the major projects will be improvements on the marina.
(Audio Here)
The village is looking to improve the marina with many more slips and an improved gas dock. The design of the project is underway.
The Department of Transportation will be performing a resurfacing project in the next year or two and with that the village board of trustees would also like to improve the on-street parking and some street beautification projects.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 19, 200
A safe haven for recovering alcoholics and drug abusers, the Kimberly House in Sturgeon Bay is a place where some people go after hitting rock bottom. Since 1997, the Kimberly House has been an adult transitional living facility that provides a safe alcohol and drug free environment. House manager Lynn Schuster and board vice chair Jeff Berg joined me on the WBDK Morning Edition last week to talk about the Kimberly House. Schuster and Berg said drug and alcohol dependency is a serious problem.
(Audio Here)
There are four beds at the Kimberly House and those who stay there commit to a three month program. The cost is $100 per resident per week. Many cannot afford that and Berg says no one will be turned away because of their financial situation. He says some check-in to the Kimberly House after getting out of jail or the hospital. Others have finally decided that they need help and a place to stay while recovering.
(Audio Here)
Since many cannot afford the fees, the Kimberly House depends greatly on donations from the community to make ends meet. This year, $77,000 is needed to keep their doors open. If you would like to help, contact the Kimberly House.
Kimberly Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 751
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
(920) 746-9224
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 19, 200
Barber Shop Quartets are fading out says Door County singer Hans Feld. For over 60 years Feld has been singing barber shop and he says things are not the way the way they used to be. Things got started for Feld back in 1947. Since then, he has performed with a few different groups in Door County and now sings with the Oak Street Boys. Feld says barber shopping started long ago. Times were different and getting your hair cut had a whole new meaning. He says back then, no one made appointments to get their hair cut and when you finally got in the chair, you were their for quite some time.
(Audio Here)
Feld says barbershop music has been around quite some time. According to the Barbershop Harmony Society, this type of music goes back to the early 1900's. What was once a popular genre is quickly fading away and Feld says we must do something to keep it alive.
(Audio Here)
Feld says barbershop enthusiasts won't be around for much longer and when that happens, the music will be gone too. He says we must do something to get younger people involved in barbershopping before its too late.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 19, 200
The Door County Economic Development Corporation has worked with four local businesses already this year with the intention of adding more jobs and retaining existing jobs in the county. Door Peninsula Internet of Forestville is using a $40,000 loan from DCEDC to help purchase equipment for the extension of their wireless broadband service in Door County. Owner of DPI Phil Schmitz said the revolving loan will help his business
grow and provide better internet service to more people in Door
County.(Audio Here)
DCEDC administers Revolving Loan Fund programs offered by their Board of Directors, the City of Sturgeon Bay and the County of Door, to facilitate the expansion or start-up of local businesses. During the 16-year history of the Door County Revolving Loan Funds, DCEDC has serviced 48 loans with a value of almost $5.6 million, according to Economic Development Manager Sam Perlman. Cumulative impact of the three Revolving Loan Fund programs includes over $29 Million in private investments, and the creation of 406 new jobs and the retention of 63 existing jobs. DCEDC currently maintains a loan fund balance of $820,000 that is available to lend to eligible growing businesses. Perlman talked about what other businesses need to do to get involved in the program.
(Audio Here)
Door Peninsula Internet has a much better chance of surviving and striving in the community as a result of the DCEDC Revolving Loan Fund. Schmitz said broadband internet access will make life on the internet easier and more user friendly. For more information on how you can get involved in the DCEDC Revolving Loan Fund program contact Sam Perlman or Bill Chaudoir by phone at (920) 743-3113.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 18, 2007
To get a hold on the underage alcohol consumption problem, parents must get involved says Kewaunee County Sheriff Matt Joski. Underage drinking is nothing new and it is not only a problem here in Northeast Wisconsin but everywhere. Joski questions the relationship parents have with their kids.
(Audio Here)Joski says everywhere you look, there is something that has to do with alcohol. Signs, commercials and sponsorships all factor in and Joski says that's why adults must be good examples.
(Audio Here)
Joski is not saying that adults and parents should not drink. However, he does ask that parents look at the examples they are setting for their children. He couldn't stress that enough.
(Audio Here)
In addition, Joski says the consequences of underage drinking can be expensive. A first offense in Kewaunee County could end up costing $248, over $400 on the second and escalating from there. Along with those fines, teens could be required to take alcohol awareness classes or have their drivers license suspended.
Finally, Joski asks that parents continue to be good examples and stay involved in their children's lives. He encourages parents to know what their kids are doing and who they are hanging out with.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 18, 200
The second story on buying and selling
your home dealt with kitchen remodeling and the location of a house.
In the third and final story in the series Tony Jeanquart talks
about the hardwood-flooring trend. He has seen flooring make a major
difference in selling prices. Flooring is a more practical
replacement in comparison to remodeling the kitchen, he said.
(Audio Here)
If you can remove old carpeting and refinish hardwood flooring,
Jeanquart says you will reap the benefits when it comes time to sell
your home.
(Audio Here)
Another issue that homebuyers run into from time to time is
carpeting that is ruined by pets. Tony said the easiest way to turn
away a potential buyer is carpeting that smells like animal or is
stained by pets.
(Audio Here)
Buyers that are allergic to cats or dogs find it very offensive when
the previous homeowner doesn’t remove old carpeting, according to
Jeanquart.
Flooring is just one of the ways to increase your home's value. In
the previous stories Jeanquart talked about location, kitchen
remodeling, roofing, electrical work and plumbing. All of these can
make the difference in selling your home quickly and easily.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 18, 200
As one class exits, another will begin at Leadership Door County. Applications are now being accepted for the 18th class of Leadership Door County. IN the 10 month program, class members learn about a variety of aspects of life in Door County. Topics covered in monthly sessions include: Door County History, Health Care, Legal System, Human Services, Education, Arts, Communication, Economy, Environment, and Community Involvement. Class members also work together on a class project to benefit a community need.
Fourteen members recently graduated from Leadership Door County. That group focused on finding ways to help expand the Meals on Wheels program in Door County. Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Rick Nelson was in that class and says he would recommend the program to anyone.
(Audio Here)
YMCA Executive Director Dan Powell moved to Door County about a year ago and was also on the last class. He said joining Leadership Door County was the perfect thing for him to do to learn more about the area and how things work here. When asked about who should join, Powell said everyone would benefit from enrolling in Leadership Door County.
(Audio Here)
Applications are now being accepted for the next Leadership Door County class. The 18th class will begin with their monthly meetings on September 23. The opening retreat will take place at that time. Other than that, classes will meet on the second Tuesday of each month. For more information www.leadershipdoorcounty.com or contact Recruitment Chair Trish Konowalski at 746-8460.
By Eric Cullen DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 18, 200
To help preserve the history that the people of Door County cherish and hold dear can be helped by advancements in technology. That is exactly what the members of the Ephraim Historical Foundation have done with their pieces of history. The foundation still has many historical items from clothing to toys that children played with available in the "Hands on Hayloft" section of the museum. In the Anderson Barn history center, they have introduced a touch-screen exhibit called "Paths to the Door" which narrates the troubles that settlers were challenged with in the early days on the peninsula.
(Audio Here)
Along with the touch-screen interaction, the museum is looking forward into the future into getting ipod tours and also updating their website. Having those options available to visitors will make it more accessible to bring the information they get about Ephraim back home with them. Having an updated website will help visitors plan out their time spent in the area.
(Audio Here)
The Ephraim Moravian Church will perform a playlet of the history of the Bethany Lutheran Church, written by the executive director of the Ephraim Historical Foundation, Sally Jacobson on Friday the 17th. For more information about upcoming events at the Ephraim Village Museums visit www.ephraim.org.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 16, 200
When facing underage drinking, we must
be honest with ourselves says Kewaunee County Sheriff Matt Joski for
the sake of the next generation. Alcohol is to blame for destroying
lives and families says Joski and we must address this issue.
However, things have gotten better he added. There has been more
education about what alcohol can do to you physically but he
believes adults must also lead by example.
(Audio Here)
Some parents seem to have good intentions and rationalize drinking
in the home by saying something like "if they are going to be
drinking, I'd rather have them do it in my house." However Joski
says that will not do much good if an underage drinker leaves that
home and gets hurt.
(Audio Here)
Joski says alcohol in society is so accepted these days. In fact it
almost seems expected. Joski talked about all the social situations
in which alcohol is served and said it is very rare that an
alcohol-free party or get together goes on.
In addition, drug use is also a concern. While law enforcement
authorities have gotten a handle on drugs like marijuana and
cocaine, others like pharmaceuticals are becoming popular. Joski
says there will always be something new. He says parents must stay
involved in their children's lives.
(Audio Here)
Educating kids and being good examples are both important factors
that will help parents be more involved in their child's life. Joski
says while things appear to have gotten better, we must do more to
stop underage drinking and drug use. He reminds parents that
allowing underage drinking parties in their homes is not only
illegal but also very dangerous for both them and those consuming
illegally.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 16, 200
Some Sturgeon Bay parents are looking to consider whether revisions should be made to the Co-Curricular Code of Conduct. A meeting will be held next weekend and Brian Nebel is one concerned parent who supports the upcoming session. The meeting will address ideas and new cost effective scientific methods and procedures recently introduced into area high school Co-Curricular Codes of Conduct.
(Audio Here)
DePere High School Athletic Director Jeff Byczek will also be at the meeting. DePere High School recently updated their Code of Conduct and Nebel says many others are looking to do the same. Random drug and alcohol testing, acceptable behavior and academic performance are topics that will probably be brought up at the meeting. In addition, Sturgeon Bay Police Chief Dan Trelka, Sturgeon Bay Athletic Director Gary Rabach, Superintendent Joe Stutting and principal Bob Nickel will all be at the meeting to address questions or concerns.
(Audio Here)
Nebel says Sturgeon Bay is certainly not alone when it comes to discussing this topic. DePere and Kimberly are two schools that have tweaked their Co-Curricular Code of Conduct. Bayport is rumored to be looking at it as well. In addition, many other school across the country are considering revisions.
Community members are encouraged to attend the meeting that will be held next Sunday in the Sturgeon Bay High School Commons at 6:30PM. Nebel is confident that constructive conversation will take place at this meeting. In future stories in this series, you'll hear from other members of the Sturgeon Bay community who will be a part of this panel.
By Nick Fremiuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 17, 200
The 2007 Farm Bill begins to turn our
agricultural economy towards renewable energy. Eighth Congressional
District Representative Steve Kagen said while the bill doesn’t
provide everything for everybody; it does move farmers in the right
direction in a number of cases.
One
aspect of the proposed legislation will end the use of Food Stamp
Coupons and requires the use of Electronic Benefit Transfer. In
addition, the bill increases the minimum benefit for food stamp
recipients, which is especially important for senior citizens in
need.
Dr. Kagen said the 2007 Farm Bill accomplishes a number of things
for a wide variety of people. Meat processors will be affected if
the Senate follows through on the recommendations sent forward by
Congress.
(Audio Here)
The legislation would increase funding to $406 million for the
Department of Defense Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, which
provides a greater variety of fresh produce to schools. Kagen said
this will prove to be beneficial to local farmers and students in
Door and Kewaunee Counties.
(Audio Here)
The farm bill continues and expands the USDA Snack Program, which
helps schools provide healthy snacks to students during after-school
activities and expands the program to all 50 states, providing $350
million over 5 years for the program. The Sturgeon Bay School
district has added a snack/breakfast program after a pilot at Sunset
School went over quite well. The Eighth Congressional District
Representative hopes the 2007 Farm Bill will survive the conference
that will take place between the Senate's version at the end of the
year.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 17, 200
Despite
a fire that destroyed the clubhouse at the Orchards Golf Course in
Egg Harbor, they are still open for business. Early Wednesday
morning, a fire ripped through the pro shop destroying that and the
restaurant that was attached to it. The incident is under
investigation and owner Jack Jackson says the cause of the fire has
not yet been determined. Jackson says he is looking forward to
moving ahead with his plans for a rebuild. When asked about
specifics of his future plans, Jackson said this. (Audio Here)
Although
the pro shop and clubhouse are gone, Jackson says the golf course is
still open. While the there is not much left of the club house,
Jackson says they have a short term solution to that.(Audio Here)
Although they've suffered a loss, Jackson says the Orchards Golf Course in Egg Harbor is open for business. Jackson says the course was not at all affected and is still in great shape. Finally, Jackson thanked all who have helped out with this unexpected incident.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 16, 2007
To
see what we are doing to make improvements at the radio stations of
DoorCountyDailyNews.com simply visit our website and click on the
"Photo of The Day" icon. Some may have noticed that our radio
stations were off the air yesterday for a short time. Operations
Manager Bill Pevlor says that was planned in order to make
improvements. He talks about today's "Photo of The
Day."(Audio Here)
The DoorCountyDailyNews.com Photo of The Day has gotten to be quite popular. For many, it's one of the first WebPages they view everyday. In addition, we are seeing work from more new photographers. Pevlor encourages everyone to keep your photos coming. Photos must be taken in Door or Kewaunee Counties. He says we are always in need of new, interesting photos.
(Audio Here)
If you haven't had your "Photo of The Day" yet today...Click Here!!! And if you have a photo you'd like to submit, we'd love to see it. Pevlor says submitting a photo is easy and will only take a couple minutes. DoorCountyDailyNews.com would love to show the world how you see Door and Kewaunee Counties.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 16, 2007
For the most part, Door County residents and visitors are boating safely but there is always room for improvement says Sturgeon Bay Coast Guard Petty Officer Eric Dees. Door County waters have been pretty busy and Dees encourages everyone to boat safely. When possible, Dees says to stay about 200 yards away from other boats. He also reminds boaters that sail boats have the right away when under sail. Dees also had advice for boats pulling tubes or skis.
(Audio Here)
Dees says safety checks are the most common reasons for stops. He says the Coast Guard often chooses boats at random to assure that they are carrying the correct equipment. Life jackets and fire extinguishers are a must. Those without life jackets will be asked to leave the water.
Boating in the fog is another concern. Dees says most charter fishing boats have radar and for them, boating in the fog is not as dangerous. He says boaters should have navigation lights on and keep your speed down. In addition, Dees says to blow your horn often in the fog.
(Audio Here)
Aside from the jet ski fatality a few weeks ago, Dees says there haven't been too many boating accidents this summer. Dees says all boaters should be alert and pay attention when boating. He says the Department of Natural Resources, as well as other organizations, offer boating safety courses that are very helpful. In addition, he says those agencies will usually help with safety checks as well, to be sure you are carrying all the equipment that is required.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 16, 2007
In the first part of the series on buying and selling homes Tony Jeanquart, of Town and Country Real Estate, talked about electrical, plumbing and roofing concerns. In part two of the series we will take a look at extra projects some people do before putting their house up for sale. Blacktopping a drive way or remodeling a kitchen are two areas where Jeanquart shared mixed opinions.
(Audio Here)
When looking to buy a house many families focus on relocating into a strong school district. Location plays a major role in what an asking price will be. Jeanquart said that an average home in a good school district would be similar in price to a better home in a worse school district.
(Audio Here)
In Kewaunee County Jeanquart said he finds people wanting to move into the Luxemburg-Casco school system frequently.
The current trend is hardwood flooring, and in part three of the series on homes we will take a look at flooring do's and don'ts. Jeanquart will give us his expert opinions on not only what to do with old carpeting, but what to do if you are a pet owner.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 16, 2007
Gerhard Bernhard was the operator of the Sunset Concert Cruises in Northern Door County for years. The folk music aficionado tried his luck this summer with the concert cruises in Sturgeon Bay and things didn’t pan out. The Concert Cruise series organized by Bernhard has been canceled. The dinner and entertainment cruise was taking place on the Spirit of LaSalle and setting sail from the Stone Harbor Resort and Conference Center.
Operations Manager at Stone Harbor Nancy Bertz said in theory it was a great idea, however sufficient interest never came through.
(Audio Here)
Bertz received a letter from the Owner of the Spirit of LaSalle Cruise Line Robert Ruleau on August 10 stating that the Sunset Concert Cruises were canceled because of past performance. Bertz said that out of 21 evenings that were reserved for concert cruises only eight performances actually happened.
The general idea will stay alive, however. Stone Harbor and the Spirit of LaSalle are teaming up to introduce a number of fun happy hour cruises. The series will continue tonight with an island themed Jimmy Buffet and salute to Elvis event. Bertz talked about the new business venture.
(Audio Here)
Tonight from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., the cruise will give you a chance to relax, unwind and enjoy the music of Jimmy Buffet and Elvis Presley performed by Mike Starr, according to Bertz. This is the second sunset cruise put on by Stone Harbor. Last Sunday the fiesta/taco night featured a build your own taco bar and margarita drink specials. The cost of the cruise is $30 and interested individuals are asked to call ahead or pick up your tickets this afternoon.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 16, 2007
The Kewaunee Police Department is
asking for your help in solving a hit an run accident that occurred
on Tuesday afternoon. The accident happened at the intersection of
Dodge Street and Center Street in the City of Kewaunee. A 49 year
old Kewaunee man was driving his moped east on Center Street when a
white, 2 door Saturn heading north on Dodge Street failed to stop
for a stop sign. The white Saturn drove into the path of the moped,
causing it to collide with the car.
A witness stated the white Saturn was driven by a young male with
another young male in the passenger seat.
The vehicle in question would have left side damage, from
approximately the driver's door to the tail lights. Pieces of the
white Saturn were collected; they include the driver's door handle
and a plastic corner piece from the bottom of the car, just in front
of the left rear wheel.
The driver of the moped was hospitalized as a result of the
accident.
Those with information about this incident are encouraged to contact
the Kewaunee Police Department at (920) 388-5010.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 16, 2007
You can learn how to make your home more nature friendly at a Door Property Owners presentation on Saturday. Door County Naturalist Roy Lukes will lead the presentation. He will give a power point presentation that will focus on the Lukes own home and their efforts to make it as environmentally and naturally friendly as possible. DPO President Richard Dirks says this is a topic that many will find interesting.
(Audio Here)
Dirks says Lukes life goal has been to use his teachings to inspire others to be good stewards of the earth.
(Audio Here)
"Making Your Home More Nature Friendly" will be on Saturday at the Bailey's Harbor Town Hall beginning at 10:00AM. There is no cost to attend and all are welcome. Questions and answers will follow the presentation.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 16, 2007
The Sturgeon Bay School Board voted last night to pay $1000 to the county to provide back-up for the district's data. The board paid the same amount in 2006 for the services. Technology Coordinator Doug Andrews reports that this is an economical and reliable way to back-up the school's data. Superintendent Joe Stutting said the service saves the district from purchasing a lot of technical equipment and gives them security in case of a fire or tornado.
(Audio Here)
The board then moved to accept an agreement with the Gibraltar School District to provide a Cognitively Disabled Program. This is a continuing program for the Sturgeon Bay School
District. Stutting
said because there are only four students that utilize the program
in Sturgeon Bay it is a major cost savings for the taxpayers. (Audio Here)
Two teacher associates were hired to assist with the Sunrise School. Mrs. Theresa Paakola accepted an offer to fill the high school business education position. The board accepted a motion for Paakola to replace Jennifer Berendsen who was in the Business Education position for two years.
Also at last night's board meeting, Mrs. Sharon Sanderson presented a revised “At Risk” handbook and plan to the Board and public. After the presentation a motion to adopt the plan occurred.
Finally, next month's meeting date was changed. The September board meeting conflicts with WASDA Fall Conference. Stutting motioned to move the next board meeting to September 26 and the board approved.
Before the meeting, the teacher's union representative and board came to an agreement on the 2007-2008 benefit package; however, the board will look over the agreement and put it on the agenda in September.
Stutting reminds parents that student registration takes place today from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and again on Tuesday, August 21 in the High School Commons. The registration is extremely important for the district to arrange for the proper student/teacher ratios.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 15, 2007
There
are a number of beach closings and advisories in Door and Kewaunee
today. First, the City of Kewaunee Beach is closed. Results from
beach testing showed 2419.6 cfu of e.coli present in 100ml of water.
Any results larger than 1000 cfu/1ooml closes a beach. In addition,
Murphy Park Beach in Door County is also closed. Those results
indicated there were 1986.3 cfu/100ml. Swimming at a beach that is
closed due to heightened levels of e.coli means there is a serious
risk you could become ill.When results come in exceeding 235 cfu/100ml, a beach advisory is issued. In Door
County, Jackson Harbor Ridges tested at 579.4 cfu/100ml and
Whitefish Dunes at 410.76 cfu/100ml. People swim at their own risk
During an advisory, it is suggested that people avoid ingesting
water, shower after swimming, wash hands before eating and do not
swim if you are ill.By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 15, 2007
The Door County Visitors Bureau is up against a $135,000 to 140,000 budget deficit for the 2007-2008 fiscal year, according to President of the Board of Directors John Lowry. He feels confident that the deficit will be nonexistent by late fall or early winter of this year. The Board President said when the Chamber of Commerce transitioned into the Visitors Bureau a lot changed since last November. Lowry said the reorganized bureau needed to clean up some things from the previous regime. The Executive committee has a two and a half month jump on this situation. Lowry talked about how the bureau got in this financial dilemma.
(Audio Here)
The Executive Committee has already made a number of adjustments that Lowry believes will rectify the problem in a hurry. He displayed the utmost confidence that the floating deficit is a short-term situation. Lowry explained how the bureau plans to rectify the problem.
(Audio Here)
The Door County Visitors Bureau Board President said the deficit will not affect the marketing aspect of their business because that is all through the room tax. He added that the blame should not be placed on one single person. Lowry noted that former Executive Director Karen Raymore is not solely responsible for the deficit.
The new finances because of the room tax shifted many of the financial operations within the Door County Visitors Bureau. The underestimation on dues and publication costs led to the financial dilemma and Lowry said the bureau is extremely confident all finances will be straight before the first of the year.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 15, 2007
Just before 5:00 this morning, a fire was reported at the Orchards Golf Course pro shop in Egg Harbor. Fire Chief Mark Bogenschutz reports that the first floor of the building is a complete loss. The initial page came out at 4:55 a.m. and firefighters responded to a fully engulfed structure. Bogenschutz said the wood building is approximately 40" x 80". The bottom floor of the clubhouse is appears unharmed, according to Bogenschutz.
(Audio Here)
The Egg Harbor Fire Chief said mutual aid was provided by all northern Door County fire departments including Sturgeon Bay. The Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Department provided their hose/reel truck to provide water to the pro shop. The water was pumped from the course's main pond that is used to water the course.
The cause of the fire is undetermined at this time; however, an investigation into the matter is being performed.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 15, 2007
Street paving will continue in the City of Sturgeon Bay tomorrow, August 16, on both sides of the bridge. Weather permitting, a private contractor will be seal coating the following streets.
Michigan Street from 7th Avenue to 12th Avenue
Maple Street from Madison Avenue to Neenah Street
Neenah Avenue from Oak Street to Redwood Street
Neenah Avenue from the Highway to Oxford Avenue
Willow Drive from Lansing to Neenah Avenue
S. Neenah Avenue from Walnut Street to Yew Street
During the process, the street will be blocked to all traffic and detoured. Residents will not have road access from driveways during this time and the city asks that you find alternate on street parking while the work is taking place. Public Works Director Jerry DeMarb asks that you please make sure that vehicles are moved prior to the contractor beginning their work as once they begin seal coating, you will be unable to travel on the roadway until it has had sufficient time to dry.
DeMarb appreciates your patience and cooperation during this project. If you have any questions or concerns, you may speak with Jerry or Jennifer at the Public Works Office. The phone number is 746-2912.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 15, 2007
The Kewaunee School District will not have to vote on a referendum this year because of the finance committee's recommendation Monday night. The Kewaunee School Board heard from finance that because of the cuts and reductions made in 2006, the district will be returning $171,000 to the general fund. A similar balance will be added after the 2007 fiscal year, according to Kewaunee Superintendent Barb Lundgren.
(Audio Here)
As a result of the "NO" vote on the 2006 revenue exceed referendum, the district made changes to various fees as well. As a primary example, the co-curricular fees went up substantially. Lundgren said that in two years the district will save the taxpayer approximately $300,000.
(Audio Here)
The Kewaunee School Board led by President Brian Vogeltanz unanimously accepted the finance committee's recommendation and will not look at a referendum for this school year. However, that does not mean the option will not be revisited for the following school year.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 15, 2007
The Sturgeon Bay Board of Education will look to approve the contracts for three new teachers for the 2007-2008 school year tonight. The school board will convene this evening in the High School Library at 7:00 p.m.
Cythia Hoolver has accepted a contract for a 10 hour per week teaching associate position at Sunrise School. Stacey Vogel has accepted a contract for a 17 hour per week teaching associate position also at Sunrise School. Finally, Mrs. Theresa Paakola has accepted an offer to fill the high school business education position. Superintendent Joe Stutting said it has been a busy summer in terms of new hires within the district.
(Audio Here)
Discussion on an agreement with the county to provide back up for the district's data and an agreement with Gibraltar School District to provide a Cognitively Disabled Program will also be on the agenda.
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Prior to moving into agenda items, the board allows for public comment. The meeting begins at 7:00 and concerned citizens are allowed an abbreviated amount of time to voice any concerns or questions to the elected school board.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 14, 2007
There are many variables that can raise or lower the value of your home. Throughout Door and Kewaunee counties more homes are for sale at this time of year than any other during the year. DoorCountyDailyNews.com will be bringing you a series of stories that will introduce home sellers and buyers to the do's and don’ts of real estate. When you are trying to sell your home there are a few things that must be attended to before putting up the for sale sign. Basic cleaning and renovating is usually the same for most homeowners. However there are a few things that are MUST DO'S according to Tony Janquart, Owner of Town and Country Real Estate.
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Replacing the roof is not only important to the selling price of your home, but it is something most everyone pays special attention to before considering purchase, according to Jeanquart. He said roof replacement is not as important on newer homes.
Other major areas for concern are the electrical systems, wiring and the plumbing. Making sure everything is up to current standards could be the difference in a sale. Janquart said that 100 amp electrical services must be installed or insurance companies will have a fit.
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The roof, plumbing, and electrical systems are just three areas where the buyer and seller need to pay special attention. Those three things could, and often times do, lead to a successful transaction, according to Tony Janquart. There are some things that people can do that will dramatically increase home value, but there are also other areas that Janquart says to leave for the next homeowners. Information on those variables will be discussed in the next story in the series on buying and selling your house.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 14, 2007
Girls, if you are looking to earn some extra money for college, you may want to seriously consider signing up for the Miss Door County Scholarship program. If you are a female
between the age of 17 and 24 and go to school, work or live in Door
County, executive director Shirley Ehlers invites you to fill out an
application for the 2008 Scholarship Program. The pageant is not
until February but Ehlers says there is a lot of work to be done
before that. She talks about some of the advantages to joining the
Miss Door County Scholarship Program.(Audio Here)
Aside from the valuable life lessons girls learn through Miss Door County, it is also a great opportunity to earn some big bucks for college. For the last couple years, the Miss Door County girls have raised more money than any other program in the state. The total amount collected will depend on how motivated the contestants are. Last year, nearly $18,000 was split up between eleven girls.
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If named the Miss Door County 2008, her first responsibility will be getting ready for the Miss Wisconsin Pageant. After that, Miss Door County will attend various events and work on implementing her platform into the community. To learn more about this opportunity, an informational meeting will be held at St. Peters Lutheran church tomorrow at 7:00PM. For more information, contact Laura Kenzik at (920) 746-9746 or Shirley Ehlers at (920) 743-7200.
By Brian Sonnenberg DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 14, 2007
The Door County Community Foundation
advises donors and distributes money to charitable organizations to
ensure the success of those non-profits. The Door County Community
Foundation accepts donations from families, individuals or
businesses. With
those donations, the group creates a fund from which the family can
disperse to charitable organizations all over Door County. The Door
County Community Foundation also consults the donors and recommends
particular charities which fit a donor's belief. Door County
Community Foundation Executive Director Jane Stevenson describes the
organization's goals.
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This group is different from a private or family foundation. Giving
to the Door County Community Foundation saves loads of paperwork and
headaches while private funds
require great attention. Typically, a donor will arrive with
predetermined feelings about particular groups or causes. If a donor
comes without loyalties, the Door County Community Foundation will
advise the person based on beliefs. In addition, the Door County
Community Foundation also works with the non-profit groups.
Stevenson talks about why that's important.
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The foundation also consults during estate planning. If a donor
wishes to leave behind a large chunk for charities, the Door County
Community Foundation can establish a giving schedule. In some cases,
non-profit organizations have endowment funds. Each year, a sum of
money moves from the endowment fund to the non-profit's bank
account. The organization ensures the donor's money reaches the
correct non-profit without the paperwork headaches which couple with
private and family foundations.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 14, 2007
Door and Kewaunee County residents had a chance to listen to Eighth Congressional District Representative Steve Kagen address agricultural concerns over the weekend. Kagen, who sits on the House Committee on Agriculture, first visited the Shanty Days Parade in Algoma. He stopped by the Farm Market Kitchen as well to talk with Director Mary Pat Carlson and her staff. The discussion centered on the 15-cent milk-marketing fee. Kagen talked about the number one concern of Algoma residents.
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The Congress member vowed to help family farms make more money by selling value-added products, which the Farm Market Kitchen does every day.
Then, it was off to Sturgeon Bay for the Door County Fair. Kagen met with local farmers to discuss the 2007 Farm Bill. The Eighth Congressional District Representative said Door County farmers had different questions than the concerned citizens of Algoma. He said questions about forward contracting came up at the Door County Fair.
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Dr. Kagen was happy to report that farmers were generally optimistic. Prices on soybeans and corn are currently above average and it looks like a profitable harvest is ahead as long as rain moves into the area, according to Steve Kagen.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 14, 2007
Due to a grant that was recently awarded to the Door County Family Centers, a seminar entitled "The Ones Who Can't Complain: Assessing and Treating Pain and Unmet Needs of People With Dementia" will be offered to Door County residents on Thursday Aug 23. The Family Centers received a grant from the Helen Bader Foundation to support the "Later in Life Learning" project for older adults. Family Centers Executive Director Gina Wautier.
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The Family Centers is looking to put more focus on older people, to address and educate about issues they may be having. Funds from the Helen Bader grant will help the Family Centers with those programs.
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"The Ones Who Can't Complain: Assessing and Treating Pain and Unmet Needs of People With Dementia" workshop will be at Stone Harbor Resort and Conference Center on Thursday August 23. The meeting will compare four approaches to understanding behaviors of people with dementia, help to understand a systematic approach to assessing and treating the pain and unmet needs of individuals with behavioral symptoms and understand treatments--both with and without medication--to respond to behaviors associated with dementia. There is no cost to attend and space is limited. RSVP by August 15 to Kim Nguyen: kim@hbf.org or (414) 755-4367
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 14, 2007
As part of the annual planning and budgeting process, the Kewaunee County Human Services Department is holding a public hearing on Tuesday, August 21 at 4:00 p.m. Areas to be discussed include Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse, Community Options Program, Juvenile Justice, Child Protective Services, Aging and Income Maintenance.
Transportation, hospitalization, community support systems, work related services, day services, outpatient clinic and child/family services are subjects that will be covered. The budgets connected with these items will also be open to comment. Human Services Director Mark Lasch said he oversees a number of different programs.
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Lasch said all counties are under levy freezes and budgets have been influenced over the past two years. The unsettled state budget is also influencing what happens at the county level.
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The meeting will be held at the Human Services Office located at 810 Lincoln Street in Kewaunee. Interpreters will be provided if necessary.
By Eric Cullen DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 13, 2007
Residents and visitors of Door County have enjoyed the acts performed by the Peninsula Players for over 70 years now. This season's performers have given audiences a wide variety of shows and actors. Audra Baakari Boyle is the business manager for the Peninsula Players, America's oldest professional resident summer theatre, and has been with the company for over 13 years. The theatre will finish this season's performances with two new plays, "Doubt" and "Be My Baby" after they conclude "Little Shop of Horrors" on the 19th.
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All of the actors come from Actors Equity, a professional union of actors who work all over the country. With a combonation of actors, staff and administrative workers the company holds about 60 members. Because it is a resident theatre, the actors stay in residence for two shows. The actors who performed in the production "Angel Street" at the beginning of the season performed that production at night and rehearsed for the upcoming production of "Unnecessary Farce" during the day.
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One actor, Sean Fortunato, has been with the Peninsula Players all season long and will finish his time here when the production of "Doubt" concludes on September 4th. Fortunato will assume the role of Father Flynn in that play.
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You can purchase tickets on their website at peninsulaplayers.com or by phone 920-868-3287.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
August 13, 2007
The 46-year-old man killed in a motorcycle accident on Saturday has been denified as Casco resident, Clarence Benser. The accident took place at 12:22 p.m. when a a truck towing a boat collided head on with Benser's motorcycle. The Door County Sheriff's Department was notified just after noon Saturday of the traffic accident on County Tk. C near Circle Ridge Road in the Gardner Township.
The two people in the truck were also injured and transported to the Door County Memorial Hospital. The injuries were later determined not serious. The accident is still under investigation according to Door County Sheriff Terry Vogel.
Assisting at the scene was the Gardner First Responders, Brussels/Union/Gardner Fire Department, South County Rescue, Door County EMS and the Medical Examiners Office.