By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 28, 2008
If you want clean government in Wisconsin, executive director Jay Heck encourages you to join Common Cause. Heck says Common Cause is the state's largest non-partisan citizen reform advocacy group. There are over 3,000 members statewide, with many right here in Door County says Heck.
(Audio Here)
Political party preference is not an issue at Common Cause.
(Audio Here)
There are different levels of membership and participation. Heck says like other organizations, members participate in many different ways. One thing Common Cause encourages, is for members to be active citizens.
(Audio Here)
Heck says the whole purpose of Common Cause is to try to mobilize citizens to take some collective action to try to move the policies of their state or federal government.
(Audio Here)
Heck encourages everyone interested in cleaning up Wisconsin's government to become a member of Common Cause. More information can be found at www.commoncausewi.org
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 28, 2008
On Tuesday, residents in the Sevastopol School District will vote on a referendum allowing the district to increase taxes above state-imposed limits. The district is asking for $1.8 million over three years. That is $600,000 per year for the next three. Sevastopol
superintendent Steve Cromell talks about why the referendum is
necessary. (Audio Here)
Crommel says 2/3 of the funds will go towards building maintenance, while the other 1/3 will be used to maintain current programming. He says they cannot list what the exact tax rate would be because that is dependent on the property value.
(Audio Here)
Voters will head to the polls on Tuesday. In the next part of this series, we'll talk more about Sevastopol's referendum.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 28, 2008
Alcohol is the drug of choice among Door County youth. As a result, under age drinking is a leading public health problem in Door County. Law enforcement, school administrators, politicians and drug and alcohol specialists will lead a town hall meeting Tuesday dealing with underage drinking.
According to data from the 2005 Monitoring the Future study, a survey of U.S. youth, an astounding 75% of 12th graders, more than 66% of 10th graders, and about 40% of 8th graders have consumed alcohol. It is speculated by some that in Door County, those figures are much higher.
The prevalence of underage drinking increases with age making it more important than ever to begin teaching youth at an early age about the dangers of alcohol. The purpose of the Town Hall Meeting is to increase community awareness on the issue of underage drinking, identify how underage drinking affects the community, and brainstorm possible solutions. The meeting will provide an opportunity for parents, teachers, officials, youth, and other community members to voice their concerns and suggest ideas for preventing young people from using alcohol.
All adults and young people are encouraged to attend the Town Hall meeting. Door County Sheriff Terry Vogel believes this is a step in the right direction.
(Audio Here)
Law enforcement officials commented that it's a fine line between respecting your teen’s privacy and doing your job as a parent. The Preventing Underage Drinking Town Hall meeting will be on Tuesday from 7:00- 8:30 p.m. at the Sturgeon Bay High School Auditorium. This event is sponsored by the Door County Alcohol and Other Drug Coalition. Vogel said a panel discussion with local community members who deal with the drinking issue on a regular basis will be represented.
Police Chief Dan Trelka said the most troubling aspect of underage drinking in Door County is the adults who ignore the issue, condone this behavior, and even encourage this activity as some sort of "right of passage."
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 28, 2008
The tone of the Supreme Court race has Citizen Action of Wisconsin, a public interest organization dedicated to clean and fair elections, distressed by the recent attack ad by one of the candidates. The advertisement was so offensive and so detrimental to the democratic process that they felt they had to take a stand, said Citizen Action Program Director Robert Kraig. The organization believes the ad put on television by candidate Michael Gableman violates the Wisconsin’s Code of Judicial Conduct that he has sworn to uphold by making false representations designed to confuse the public. Gableman’s ad falsely states that Justice Louis Butler was responsible for releasing a sex offender who committed an additional crime, according to the program director. Kraig said this account is false.
(Audio Here)
On March 18, Citizen Action filed a complaint with the Wisconsin Judicial Commission to investigate whether Judge Gableman’s ad violates the Code of Judicial Conduct.
(Audio Here)
Citizen Action’s complaint has received very positive press coverage throughout the state. For example, Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton said she agrees with Citizen Action of Wisconsin that Judge Gableman's ad not only goes far beyond the realm of poor taste to exceed our definition of dirty campaigning and negativity: Gableman indulges in deliberate lies and distortions and thus violates the Code of Judicial Conduct. Gableman's campaign ad reveals his low regard for those who would invest their trust in him and deems him unfit to serve on our highest court, Lawton added.
On behalf of Citizen Action of Wisconsin's over 90,000 members statewide, they felt obligated to take a stand against this reprehensible form of negative campaigning. Such tactics are bad enough when they come from independent groups, Kraig said. He ended by stating it is shocking when these comments are coming directly from someone seeking to serve on the state’s highest court.
To read the Citizen Action complaint, view press coverage, and to see Gableman’s attack ad, please visit www.citizenactionwi.org.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 28, 2008
Two teens have been arrested within the last week by the Door County Sheriffs Department for several charges including burglary, theft, felony bail jumping and criminal trespass to property. Members of the Door County Sheriffs Department arrested 17 and 18 year olds on separate dates. The last arrest was made on Tuesday. The two young men were involved in a burglary to a business in the town of Sevastopol on March 8. Door County Sheriff Terry Vogel described the burglary.
(Audio Here)
Deputies executed a search warrant and recovered the stolen laptop computer from the business. The 17 year old is also involved in another theft that occurred on the 13 of March. The investigation is still on going and other people may be charged in the future.
(Audio Here)
The suspects will be referred to the District Attorney's Office for criminal charges. Several deputies took part in the investigation but Sheriff Terry Vogel commended Investigator's Jim Valley and Chris Neuville and Deputy Bob Lauder for their work.
If the community has any information on this case or any other burglaries, Vogel urges you to contact the Door County Sheriffs Department. He ensured that all tipsters would remain anonymous and in some cases, rewards may even be offered for your services to an investigation.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 28, 2008
Driving under the influence are words that can be interpreted in a number of different ways. The term is commonly tied to someone who drinks too much alcohol, drives and is arrested. Another DUI involving the use of marijuana was issued to a 17-year-old Sturgeon Bay woman Wednesday night in the city. This is now the fifth case involving the illegal use of marijuana in Sturgeon Bay in the past ten days. Sturgeon Bay Police Chief Dan Trelka said officers noticed the young woman’s vehicle not following basic traffic laws and pulled her over.
(Audio Here)
Operating under the influence of marijuana and possession of marijuana tickets were issued to the woman. Trelka said officers are now more cognizant of how big of a problem that marijuana use is in Sturgeon Bay. Trelka was asked if law enforcement officials are approaching a routine traffic stop with a different mind set.
(Audio Here)
With five arrests in ten days, Trelka hopes people start to learn from others mistakes. Possessing, selling, using and operating a vehicle under the influence of marijuana are all illegal activities. The police department will continue to watch for signs of all illegal drug activity. Trelka said the force unintentionally has made this issue a major focal point. The police chief believes that a message is being sent to all growers, sellers and users of marijuana. This type of activity will not be tolerated in Sturgeon Bay.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 28, 2008
Since the announcement of the Door County Half-Marathon last fall, runners from Door County and beyond have been running their soles out - literally -- on treadmills, tracks, and roads, preparing for this challenging 13.1 mile race. Now runners can do more with their worn-out running shoes.
A new initiative created by Going Garbage & Recycling called "Go Run & Recycle," allows runners to bring their worn-out running shoes and other sneakers to drop-boxes in Door County. A drop-box will be placed at the starting and ending points of the Door County Half-Marathon in Peninsula State Park on Saturday, May 3. Co-owner of Going Garbage & Recycling Christi Decker described the drop off bins.
(Audio Here)
Once collected, the shoes will be sent to Wipers Recycling, a recycling company based in Maplewood, Minnesota. Using a patented process, Wipers will grind up the shoes and turn them into a sorbent material for oil spill cleanup kits to be used around the world. Patty Gearin, the founder of Wipers Recycling, says that leather, rubber, and cotton do a wonderful job of absorbing oil if they are broken down into tiny pieces.
Decker is very excited to be able to offer runners and other athletes the opportunity to recycle their old shoes. "I think shoes are often overlooked when it comes to the things people think can be recycled," she says. There are some marathoners in the county that usually have to send their shoes out to be recycled, and we’re here to eliminate that step." Decker stresses that only running shoes and sneakers will be accepted.
(Audio Here)
For more information about the "Go Run & Recycle" program, please contact Going Garbage & Recycling at (920) 854-2114 or visit www.goinggarbage.com. For information about the Door County Half Marathon, please visit www.doorcountyhalfmarathon.com.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 28, 2008
Crews are making progress on the Door County Justice Center renovation project. Board chair Charlie Most says offices are being moved around. New walls are going in on the third floor and the layout is changing.
(Audio Here)
Most says he is now used to the obstacles created by construction crews. Whether its ladders or material in the hallways, a lot is happening at the government center. He says the public safety building, also known as the old county jail, was demolished on Monday. From the outside, you won't see much of a difference right now.
(Audio Here)
Things haven't always been easy for the employees in the government center but overall things are going well Most says.
(Audio Here)
There are a number of changes to the layout in the "new" government center. For example, social services will move to the sanitarian's old area and the public health department will get some additional storage space. Most says its hard to imagine how things will look once the project is complete.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 26, 2008
Gardeners anxious to
get out in the yard should be ready to see damage made by rodents
after the snow is gone. Owner of Briggsville Gardens Richard Briggs
says this long winter has left plenty of time for mice and rabbits
to feed on bushes and shrubs.
(Audio
Here)
Briggs says there isn't much you can do for this rodent damage.
(Audio
Here)
Briggs says there isn't much you can do to prevent this rodent
damage before the winter hits. You can try putting down moth balls
or wire mesh around plants but its tough to keep mice and rabbits
away from your shrubs during long winters like this.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 26, 2008
Another arrest was made last night in Sturgeon Bay for distribution and delivery of marijuana. The illegal drug has unintentionally become a major focal point for the Sturgeon Bay Police Department. In the past week alone, four different cases involving marijuana have unfolded for law enforcement in Sturgeon Bay. The drug bust involving Tyler Meverden last week was the start of a major crack down on the illegal drug. Police Chief Dan Trelka said another arrest was made last night.
A mother found a bag of the illegal substance in her son's room and reported it to authorities. The Sturgeon Bay Police Department questioned the teenage boys and it led to the arrest of another dealer.
(Audio Here)
SBPD has seized about a pound and a quarter of marijuana in the past week. Trelka said they want people to know that this type of activity will not be tolerated in the city. Sturgeon Bay is known for being tough on drunk driving and they are quickly becoming know for their no nonsense approach on illegal drugs.
(Audio Here)
Trelka has five school-aged children. He is concerned that too many students are toking up and using illegal drugs. The police chief estimates that anywhere from 15-20% of high school students in Door County smoke marijuana or use other illegal drugs.
(Audio Here)
The Sturgeon Bay Police Department is turning up the heat on marijuana growers, dealers and users. Trelka said all officers are watching for illegal drug activity. Whether their on the street, on the internet or in the schools, local law enforcement is paying a great deal of attention to drug enforcement.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 26, 2008
Door Cancer is holding their tenth annual spring fundraiser next Friday, April 4, at 5:30 p.m. The event has grown from 83 people to an annual attendance of approximately 300 people. Door Cancer helps area residents by giving financial support to cancer patients in many different ways including groceries, gas and rent. President Barb Herdina said Door Cancer steps in when it is difficult for a patient to work or earn any type of income.
In 2007, over $86,000 was given to cancer patients in need in Door County. The organization will take all of the money raised through ticket sales, live auction, silent auction and the 50/50 raffle at the spring fundraiser and use it to help families that need a little aid at a stressful and scary time in a person's life.
(Audio Here)
The cost for a single ticket to the event is $25 and the fee for a couple is $45. Door Cancer board member Katie Graff said the community has been supportive of their mission because everyone has been affected by cancer in some way. She believes that with the increase in cancer patients, people realize that they could easily be in the same position at any time.
(Audio Here)
The Door Cancer tenth annual spring fundraiser will include auctions and raffles that will have items of interest for everyone. Corporate tables are also welcomed. A table of ten is $500 and a table of six is $300. This single event brings in $25,000 to $28,000 in funds for the nonprofit organization every year.
For more information, call Barb Herdina at 7438492.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 26, 2008
Spring is in the air and many Door and Kewaunee County motorcyclists are getting the urge to dust off their cycles and head out on the highway. However, they might want to be careful on their first rides of the spring. Because of a salt shortage in many areas across the state, snow removal crews this winter used more sand than usual on roads in an attempt to improve traction. As ice and snow melts, oftentimes, the sand is left behind on the roadways. This can make all roads slick for motorcycles. Door County Sheriff Terry Vogel urges motorcyclists to look ahead for sand when coming to a stop or when entering curves so they maintain control.
(Audio Here)
The highway shop is doing an outstanding job of trying to clean sand off the roadway, according to the Sheriff. He said the spring rainstorms are the best cleaning agent for the county's roads. Until we receive a few major rainstorms, Vogel said intersections are one major area of concern.
(Audio Here)
Hills and curves also maintain more sand than a straightaway. Vogel said motorcycle tires do not get any grip on the road when breaking or turning on sand. Vogel said it is similar to sliding on ice in the winter. He said drivers should do all they can to ride it out, reduce your speed and try not to stop abruptly.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 26, 2008
The Volunteer Center of Door County needs your help to get the job done. Executive director Chris Henkel said by helping just one, helps you and helps all. Your help helps everyone, the big and the small. The small play on words sums up what volunteerism does in the community. The volunteer center has a number of specific needs this month.
Henkel said receptionist help is needed. Volunteers would manage a multi-line telephone system for a Sturgeon Bay agency weekdays, anytime between the hours of 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Interested volunteers who like animals could be used for the Scottie Rally on Saturday, May 17th in Baileys Harbor. Volunteers will help with event registration, concessions and other general duties. Blocks of 4 or 8 hour time segments are available. Finally, knitters are needed to help create layettes, caps, booties, blankets, sweaters, and quilts for infants. The yarn is provided, according to Henkel. She
If you are interested in learning about more volunteer opportunities or have a need for volunteers, contact Chris Henkel at (920)746-7704 or volunteercenter@doorcounty.com.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 25, 2008
The final Door County board meeting for five supervisors started with a sentimental message from chair Charlie Most. After six years of serving on the board, Most took a few minutes to say thank you. Most choked back tears to begin the meeting while noticing Liberty Grove community members and leaders.
County Administrator Mike Serpe gave his annual report at the meeting. He started by thanking all of the supervisors for their hard work. The financial condition of Door County government is in good shape, he said. The level of public safety is the pride of the Law Enforcement and Public Safety Committees, he added. While the condition of Door County is good, local government throughout the state is struggling with funding. He warned of a recession by citing numerous sources.
Serpe said Door County government is working hard to continue working within their means. The county administrator concluded his annual report by expressing his sense of pride in Door County, those who serve and the people they represent.
The board then noticed retiring supervisors Bill Goettelman, Charles Gulley, Dale Wiegand, Jaime Forest and Charlie Most Jr. The county board will look to replace an overall 28 years of experience. The meeting turned into a stroll down an emotional memory lane. Supervisors, department heads and citizens gave chair Charlie Most a standing ovation, numerous testimonials and speeches of appreciation for his six years serving on county board.
The board of supervisors then quickly took action and passed a resolution for a gift, grant and/or donation for the targeted runoff management program. Supervisor Hugh Mulliken applauded the county for receiving a total of $664,990.
The board also voted unanimously in favor of the transfer of funds for the upgrade in the county's wireless data network infrastructure. Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Fire Chief Chris Hecht through the Ephraim Fire Department obtained $815,000 in federal emergency grants. The board passed a resolution to transfer $30,000 from the contingency account in the general fund to the Sherriff's Department Communication capital outlay account to upgrade Door County’s wireless data network infrastructure.
Finally, the board voted unanimously to adopt the denial report on the zoning map amendment for Liberty Grove. The Resource Planning Committee could not properly evaluate the amendment since it was presented peace-meal rather than in context with the surrounding zoning in the town. Board Chair Charlie Most said the citizens of Liberty Grove need to decide and plan for what they want the area to look like in the future.
Charlie Most ended the emotional meeting with one last set of thank you's to those he served with for the past six years. Next month's reorganization meeting will be held at the Door County Justice Center in Sturgeon Bay.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 25, 2008
Green Bay Packers Chairman Emeritus and former President and CEO Bob Harlan has been booked as the keynote speaker for the Door County Economic Development Corporation's annual meeting. The annual investors meeting and luncheon will be held on Tuesday, April 29, at the Stone Harbor Resort and Conference Center in Sturgeon Bay.
Bob Harlan served 37 years with the Packer organization, including 19 seasons as its President and CEO. After formally retiring January 28, 2008, he currently serves as a consultant to the organization. His vision and leadership of the franchise set a lofty standard within the world of professional sports. The organization enjoyed tremendous success under his stewardship and is positioned to succeed well into the future. Economic Development Manager Sam Perlman was thrilled to talk about Harlan's importance to all of Wisconsin.
(Audio Here)
Off the field, the crowning achievement of Harlan's tenure - the $295 million redevelopment of historic Lambeau Field - was ushered in at the beginning of the 2003 season and now stands as the chief component for assuring the team's financial survival for the next three decades. On the field, the Packers enjoyed a resurgence under Harlan's guidance, owning the league's best overall record from 1993- 2007, and returning the Lombardi Trophy to Green Bay with a victory in Super Bowl XXXI.
In addition to the keynote address by Harlan, the annual investors meeting will include the presentation of the Door County Industry of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year Awards. The Industry of the Year Award recognizes a construction, service or manufacturing business that has made a substantial impact on the community and enjoyed significant accomplishments during the past year. The Entrepreneur of the Year Award celebrates those individuals who have taken the initiative to start and grow a successful small business in Door County. The luncheon meeting will also include the annual report to the community about the accomplishments of DCEDC during 2007.
The DCEDC annual investors meeting will start promptly at 12pm. A pre-luncheon networking session with Bob Harlan will take place from 11:15 to 11:45am. Tickets for the April 29 luncheon are $25 per person or $225 for a table of ten.
By Patti Podgers DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 25, 2008
Since its founding in 1986, the Door County Land Trust has protected more than 4,000 acres of land through purchase, donation, and conservation easements. Impressive, yes, but the job of protecting Door County landscape is far from accomplished according to Terrie Cooper, Land Program Director for the non-profit organization. “That figure represents about 4% of Door County’s total acreage. We have made great strides in protecting our finest open spaces and wild places, and being good stewards of the land, but we have so much more to do.”
The permanent protection of Door County’s lands is based on several criteria including those areas that are significant to its scenic beauty, maintaining open spaces, and the ecological integrity of the region. In fulfilling its broad-based mission the Door County Land Trust has protected fields, farms, forests, wetlands, and shoreline throughout the peninsula. “Door County is very special. We are home to some very unique types of vegetation and our wildlife is abundant. Securing those areas is vital to Door County’s continued health and well-being,” said Cooper.
With the help of hundreds of volunteers, the Door County Land Trust continues its work throughout the year. Secured properties are monitored for an infestation of invasive species or illegal snowmobilers. Year round fundraising activities include “Dining for Open Spaces,” February’s annual “Feast by the Fire,” and a celebration of summer with the members “Gathering.” Just for fun Land Trust members hike the Kangaroo Lake, the Woods at Monument Point, Kellner Fen, and Kinsey Bay.
From the tip of the peninsula to the broad base of the county, Door County Land Trust properties are safe from development through the efforts of members across the United States. But the door never closes on the procurement of additional properties. “We are always looking to the future,” emphasized Cooper. “More recently we turned our attention to Chambers, Washington, and Detroit Islands. And the Ephraim Swamp is an area that is so significant to the area. It takes all of us working together to protect Door County. It’s not about one person or even one group, but a commitment by all of us to maintain the peninsula’s beauty and health for the future.”
For additional information on the Door County Land Trust visit: www.doorcountylandtrust.org
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 25,
2008There are a number of part-time Door County residents who
make Habitat For Humanity a success and they are slowly making their way back to the area. Executive director Rick Nelson says there are some local residents who are committed to Habitat home construction too, but the numbers will go up as the part-time or "snowbirds" head
back to enjoy Door County. (Audio Here)
Work normally takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays but Habitat will add something new this year. Nelson says crews will now head out to work on
Saturdays as well.(Audio Here)
Nelson hopes the Saturday option will give more year-round residents an opportunity to work for Door County Habitat for Humanity. Those who cannot donate sweat equity hours can help in many other ways Nelson adds. Contact the Sturgeon Bay office to hear how you can help Door County Habitat for Humanity.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 25, 2008
Five supervisor’s will conclude their terms and step away from politics on the Door County Board at today's 9:30 a.m. meeting. Bill Goettelman, Charles Gulley, Dale Wiegand, Jaime Forest and Charlie Most Jr. will receive thanks and appreciation for their service to Door County. This morning's meeting is at the Liberty Grove Town Hall (11161 Old Stage Road, Sister Bay). Board Chair Charlie Most said it has been an odd week. Realizing that he was preparing for his last county board meeting was an awkward sense. A new board will be seated within a month and Most said it has started to set in that his run as board chair is ending.
(Audio Here)
The Door County Board of Supervisors will act on a resolution dealing with the targeted runoff management program. Most said these are standard grants that encourage and institute best management practices. This involves manure storage in dealing with spreading. Most said this resolution will help protect Door County's water.
(Audio Here)
The board will finish the meeting with a resolution on the upgrade for Door County’s wireless data network infrastructure. Federal mandates on narrow banding and interoperability will lead to change in the county's communication system for fire, EMS, police and sheriff's departments.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 24, 2008
Mold can be dangerous to your health and removing it from window sills and walls is only a temporary fix says Door County Sanitarian John Teichler. When cleaning up mold, it is important to avoid disturbing it says Teichler. He talks about the best way to remove mold.
(Audio Here)
When mold is present, it has been called sick building syndrome says Teichler. That means the building probably does not have a good air exchange he adds and there could be a number of reasons for that.
(Audio Here)
In some cases, smoke from candles has been mistaken for mold. Teichler encourages good air exchange to reduce the possibility of mold growth. The Door County Sanitarian Department does administer inspections for those concerned about a possible mold problem. For more information, phone the Door County Sanitarian Department.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 24, 2008
Learn about the Magic
of Vinegar at a UW Extension presentation tomorrow. Family living
educator Pam Peterson says there are many uses for vinegar. From
beauty regime, to cleaning, to cooking, there are so many uses for
vinegar she says.
(Audio Here)
Vinegar is also considered a "green" cleaning agent. This is a great
solution for those concerned about protecting the environment.
Peterson says there are many uses for vinegar that one would never
think of. She gives some more tips.
(Audio Here)
In the kitchen, Peterson says vinegar in egg whites will make them
fluffier and it keeps potatoes white if you put some into the water
as you are peeling. Peterson's final tip is to use vinegar to keep
frost from forming on your windshield. Three parts of vinegar to one
part water wiped on your windshield should keep it frost free.
Peterson will share more uses for vinegar at a presentation later
today. The Magic of Vinegar will be tomorrow at the Sturgeon Bay
library in the Jane Greene Room at 1:00PM.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 24, 2008
Those without health insurance in Door County can receive top notch medical care at the Community Clinic. Facilities are located in Sturgeon Bay and in Sister Bay. Executive
director Allin Walker says patients will notice that the clinic is
top notch too.(Audio Here)
Walker says the Community Clinic is not for emergencies, instead he encourages people to schedule their routine physicals and take care of ongoing problems. Emergencies will be sent to the hospital.
(Audio Here)
Walker encourages everyone to be sure you get to the doctor for a routine physical. He says catching it early could be the key to conquering that illness or disease.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 22, 2008
Mold found indoors
can lead to major health problems. Improper circulation and
excessive moisture in a building could bring mold problems and now
is time of the year to notice these spots on walls or ceilings. Door
County Sanitarian John Techler says mold problems are usually
associated with the winter months when heating systems are used.
This is most common between the months of November and May.
(Audio Here)
When asked if we should be concerned for our health and safety,
Teichler says we all react differently to mold.
(Audio Here)
Most mold Teichler has observed is black or gray in color. He has
found this mold on walls and ceilings and in window sills. Clean up
is just a short term fix says Teichler. In the next part of this
series, we'll talk more about the dangers of mold. Teichler will
talk about the short term clean up fix and what causes mold to form
in the first place.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 22, 2008
There are a number of part-time Door County residents who make Habitat For Humanity a success and they are slowly making their way back to the area. Executive director Rick Nelson says there are some local residents who are committed to Habitat home
construction too, but the numbers will go up as the part-time or
"snowbirds" head back to enjoy Door County. (Audio Here)
Work normally takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays but Habitat will add something new this year. Nelson says crews will now head out to work on Saturdays as well.
(Audio Here)
Nelson hopes the Saturday option will give more year-round residents an opportunity to work for Door County Habitat for Humanity. Those who cannot donate sweat equity hours can help in many other ways Nelson adds. Contact the Sturgeon Bay office to hear how you can help Door County Habitat for Humanity.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 22, 2008
All 21 seats on the Door County Board of Supervisors are up for re-election and only four races are contested. Board chair Charlie Most is a bit disappointed to see that five
supervisors are stepping down and only four races are contested. (Audio Here)
After six years as Door County Board of Supervisors Chair, Most has decided to step down. He says three supervisors have expressed an interest in serving as the new board chair.
(Audio Here)
The board chair has to first be a supervisor says Most. When asked what advice he had for the next chair, Most said this.
(Audio Here)
The new Door County Board of Supervisors will be sworn in and seated on April 15.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 24, 2008
The Door County
Inventors and Entrepreneurs Club has two speakers lined up for their
next meetings, discussing topics that have direct impact on small
businesses and family-owned companies. I&E Club meetings are held at
6pm on the first Tuesday of the month. All gatherings are held at
NWTC-Sturgeon Bay, are free and open to the public.
On Tuesday, April 1, the guest will be Susan Schierstedt, Director
of the Wisconsin Family Business Forum at University of
Wisconsin-Oshkosh, talking about the unique challenges and rewards
of building and running a family business.
The mission of the Wisconsin Family Business Forum is to foster
healthy family businesses in the state, through education,
information, networking, research and life experience. Business
owners, family members, non-family employees, business professionals
and academics come together to explore the challenges and rewards of
family enterprise and to grow in knowledge, skills and experience.
Door County economic Development Corporation Economic Development
Manager Sam Perlman said this program could help many local business
owners.
(Audio Here)
Susan Schierstedt, Director of the Wisconsin Family Business Forum,
is also an Instructor of Management Information Systems at UWO and
Executive Educator of Management at UW-Madison. Previously, she was
Administrative Officer for the Management Institute at the
UW-Madison School of Business. She is a member of the United States
Association of Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE) and the
Family Firm Institute. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Education
from Northwestern University and a Master's Degree in Business from
UWO.
Anyone with an idea for a small business or product they would like
to bring to market is encouraged to attend, as are current business
owners who would like to network with like-minded individuals.
Retirees and former business owners who would like to network and
share their experiences with new entrepreneurs are also welcome. The
Door County I&E Club provides networking and learning opportunities
for the many entrepreneurs, small business owners and inventors
currently present in Door County.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 22, 2008
Lung specialist and American Lung Association volunteer Dr. John Stevenson was sad to see no action taken on the smoke-free workplace bills that were introduced to the
legislature. Stevenson believes many Wisconsinites would favor such
a ban. In addition, he thinks there would have been enough votes
from the House and Senate, had the bill have come to a vote. While
passing through various committees, the smoke free workplace bill
never received a full floor vote. (Audio Here)
When asked why people might oppose the ban, Stevenson says some defended on the basis of libertarianism; they don't believe the government should tell people what to do in cases where there should be free choice. Those people might say that those exposed to this secondhand smoke can choose to go elsewhere. Stevenson believes that is not necessarily true and says many people who work to support themselves must get jobs in places where secondhand smoke in high, like bars and restaurants. Some don't have much of a choice in
where they can work. (Audio Here)
Stevenson believes information from other states demonstrates that their is not a negative effect on bars and restaurants because of this smoke free workplace regulation. 23 states have enacted smoke free workplace laws that include bars and restaurants.
Stevenson says secondhand smoke is harmful because it increases the risk of various forms of cancer, particularly lung cancer. It also causes a worsening of respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis and other forms of lung infections.
While the smoke free workplace ban was not passed this year, Stevenson expects it to be back out on the table in the next legislative session.
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 22, 2008
A new stop sign will be installed at Third Avenue and Louisiana Street in Sturgeon Bay and City Engineer Tony Depies believes that would not be necessary if drivers would slow down and follow the rules of the road. Many business owners have expressed a concern
for safety in that area, stating that drivers are not obeying the
stop sign that is there. After a Parking and Traffic Committee
meeting recently, the group decided that a larger stop sign should
be installed. (Audio Here)
Depies says the committee and area business owners are worried about pedestrian safety. While there are no records of a fatality near the Third Avenue and Louisiana, Depies says many people have been struck by a vehicle.
(Audio Here)
Depies says it is very important that all motorists follow the signs and rules of the road. Rules in this particular area and in others have the pedestrian in mind. The fine for running a stop sign in Sturgeon Bay is nearly $200.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 22, 2008
The Door County
YMCA's Hometown Hero campaign has touched thousands of people on the
peninsula. Emotional essays have been posted in the Y's hallways,
read on the radio and mailed to inspirational people throughout the
county. As part of an awareness effort to help people realize the
importance of their Annual Strong Kids Scholarship Campaign,
thousands of local grade school students have been asked to select
their hometown hero.
"Hometown Heroes – Be One" was chosen as the theme for the annual
Strong Kids Campaign. The monies raised allow the YMCA to ensure
that no one is ever turned away based on their financial situation.
Currently the YMCA provides scholarships to over 1400 individuals
from throughout Door County. Having reached the halfway point with
over $180,000 raised towards their goal of $355,000, the Door County
YMCA is excited about the number of new donors who have stepped
forward to help others in our community by pledging their support.
Finnancial Development Director Cindy Weber talked about the
impressive response to this campaign.
(Audio Here)
From firefighters, to teachers, to grandmas and grandpas, area
school children wrote some great essays, said Weber. Some of the
essay contest entries make you laugh, some make you cry and some of
them show the importance of family and having someone you can look
up to. But the real story is that anyone can be a Hero. There are
hundreds of essays for you to enjoy hanging on the walls throughout
the YMCA. Crass said everyone is encouraged to stop in and take a
few moments to read them.
The winners from the essay contest are as follows.
Overall Contest Winner Brittany Ehlers
Coloring Contest Winners - Northern Door 1st Madison Bunda
2nd Byron Finell
3rd Erin Young
Coloring Contest Winners – Sturgeon Bay 1st Charlie Carmody
2nd Brooke Hurth
3rd McKenzie Duquaine
Writing Contest Winners
2nd Grade & Younger – Northern Door 1st Aubrey Peot
2nd Eva Hitzeman
3rd Elizabeth Charney
2nd Grade & Younger – Sturgeon Bay 1st Olivia McDonald
2nd Madelyn Estes
3rd Lexi Wery
Writing 3rd – 5th Grade – Northern Door 1st Mikayla Kifer
2nd Matt Scharrig
3rd Brittany Aune
Writing 3rd – 5th Grade – Sturgeon Bay 1st Brandon Sawyer
2nd Sarah Felhofer
3rd Kelsey Wavrunek
Writing 6th – 8th Grade – Northern Door
1st Arianna Fearing
Writing 6th – 8th Grade – Sturgeon Bay 1st Jackie Herlache
2nd Sara Mueller
3rd Andy Renfrew
Here is a brief sampling of some of the Hometown Heroes Essay
Contest.
Brandon Sawyer wrote that his Hometown Hero was his former teacher
Mike Madden. Brandon states “He made me realize that if I’m bad at
something, I should still do it because if I don’t keep at it, I
will be afraid of it and never get good at it…He taught me to do my
best and never give up. For this simple reason, I think of him as
the best science teacher/hero anyone could ever have. I’m a kid he
saved!”
According to eight year old Madelyn Estes, her heroes are her little
brothers. “When I’m lonely they come and ask me if I want to play
with them. When I get hurt they make me feel better. They make me
special. I don’t think I could ever live without them. They barely
say no. They respect me. They love me. They try to help me with my
homework. They are there for me.”
Several students wrote that their heroes were firefighters or
policeman. Elizabeth Charney wrote “Mom is my hero because she is an
ambulance worker. One day in summer my mom had a responder call at
2:30 in Ellison Bay. The Pioneer Store exploded. There were a lot of
people that were injured, like children. My mom used her car to get
there. When my mom got there every single child was sad. There were
a bunch of toys in the back of her car. So she let all of the
children play with them nicely. My mom is so nice to do that. That
is why I think she is a hero in my eyes.”
Lexi Wery wrote about her father being her hero. “Ryan Wery, my dad,
is my hero because he is a fireman. My dad saves lives. He teaches
me to do the same. I love my dad and he loves me. Anytime I hear the
fire trucks I know my dad, my hero, is helping others. He makes me
proud!”
Family members were popular heroes for many kids throughout the
county. Olivia McDonald wrote “Mom is my hero because she shows me
love. She makes me feel happy. My mom helps me with my homework. My
mom protects me from danger and holds me when I feel sad. My mom
teaches me rite from wrong. My mom is kind and nice to me. She gives
me advice about things I don’t know. My mom is my hero because she
is my friend.”
Britney Ehlers’ heroes are her mom and dad. “I not only look to my
parents for inspiration, but also for guidance. Whenever I need help
with something, my parents are there to get me through those times.
My parents give me soft blankets and warm food. If this isn’t love,
what is? My family shares little moments that make our relationship
stronger. We may fight at times, but when it is over, we know that
we really do love each other. My parents have given me everything I
need, and without them I wouldn’t be here. This just goes to show
that a hero doesn’t need to be someone great to be a hero. They just
need to be someone you love and admire.
Sara Felhofer states her Hometown Hero is her Grandma Felhofer. “She
loves me and I love her SO much! I hope to grow up just like her! I
may not want to have the same job as her, but I hope to have the
same great and nice personality as her. My Grandma is always there
for me. She’s there for things like plays, basketball, softball,
Destination Imagination and just about everything I do. She’s always
there with me through the touch times and she’s one of the few
people that I want to talk to or just spend time with when I need
some comfort. Every time I go to her house, I have so much fun
because she tells me stories about when she was little, she reads to
me, plays with me, teaches me things like how to sew a pillow and
gives me lots of hugs and kisses. I love my grandma and I am so
happy she is my grandma. To me… she is a Hometown Hero.”
Jackie Herlache didn’t have just one hero, but three! “These people
are important to me because they show me that life isn’t always
easy. That there is always going to be struggles along the way.
These three people are my grandma, my Aunt Jen and my Grandpa. My
grandma is in cancer treatments right now and she takes it like a
pro. She is a hero to me because she takes the pain. She know it’s
going to make her better. My Aunt Jen is a cancer survivor. She only
had a 10% chance of living but she did. I was so scared I wasn’t
going to see her again. She finally did get better, and I was happy
to know I was still going to have my loving aunt around. My grandpa
had a stroke two years ago. We went to go visit him one day and when
we were in the room I started to cry. By that time my Grandpa knew
what was going on and could mostly talk correctly. My grandpa is
still living and I’m so thankful.”
Jackie continues “Sometimes I wish I could take people’s illnesses
away, but I can’t. I just have to suffer through it with them.
Sometimes people think they have to be brave with them, but that’s
not always the case. A person can be scared, and you can be worried,
but most of the time people get through it with them and it all
works out in the end. If it doesn’t work out the way you want it to
then don’t be mad because God had it all planned out so you or the
person is happy.”
God was mentioned by several students as their hero. Mikayla Kifer
wrote that “God is my hero because he has helped me through
countless adventures. I pray to God and I know that everything will
be Okay. God is everywhere. God is all over the universe. Almost
every time I am in a bad situation I pray to God and things start
moving in the right direction. God is my Hometown Hero.”
On a more earthly note Sarah Moeller tells us “you may have seen him
at the Door County Fair wearing his “Leader of the Flock” hat,
hanging out with the chickens, or cheering at a Southern Door
Football game. However, the most expected place to find him is at
Corpus Christi Church preaching. My hometown hero is Father Anthony
Birdsall. Father Birdsall is a good friend of my family’s. I have
known Father Birdsall since the time I first walked. My whole life
Father has been there for me. Father Birdsall has many talents. One
of them is the way he makes me laugh. Father doesn’t even have to
get to the punch line, and I am laughing because of the way he tells
jokes. Father is very talented with his knowledge of chickens. If
there is a chicken with purple feathers, he will know of it. Have
you ever seen his flower beds? Father is one very green thumb. He
grows roses and other flowers that are picture perfect.”
“All of these qualities add to what makes him my hero. He’s my hero
because he has such a positive influence on me and everyone who
knows him. Father has a way of making me feel comfortable when I
talk to him, and he speaks in a way anyone can understand. He
listens well; for example, he can relate to what you’re talking
about and give good advice. He is kind, generous, and very humble in
every action he does. His example is the one we should follow to
become more like Jesus wanted us to be. Whether he is feeding his
chickens or telling jokes, Father will always be my hero. Father
Birdsall is just a regular guy, and I appreciate and respect that.
His talents with words and plants are very admirable. I hope that he
is part of my life in the years to come.”
By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 22, 2008
Every vote counts
says Door County League of Women Voters President Susan Kohout. On
Tuesday April 1, the polls will open and residents will vote on a
number of issues. Those throughout Door County will choose who will
lead their community and in the Sevastopol School District residents
will determine what will happen with programming and needed facility
upgrades. Kohout says it is vital that everyone have a say on these
important decisions.
(Audio Here)
Kohout says there have been races in the past that were tied and
ultimately decided on a coin toss. In other races, only a few votes
made the difference. All this proves that every vote makes a
difference she says. Election day is Tuesday, April 1. Kohout
encourages all voters to get educated on the candidates and the
issues, then head to the polls to vote on April 1.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
March 22, 2008
In April, the Fairfield Center for Contemporary Art in downtown Sturgeon Bay will open the doors to the newest exhibition by Door County artist Mary Blotti Anderson. Titled “Mary Blotti Anderson: Of the Great Lakes, Bays & Fields,” the exhibition will open on Tuesday, April 1 in the lower-level b2 Gallery.
Anderson will host a free opening reception in the b2 at 6:30-8 p.m. on Thursday, April 3. Refreshments will be served, and the artist’s featured works will be available for purchase.
Anderson, a graduate of the University of Minnesota at Duluth, said the exhibition reflects her lifelong love of the Great Lakes region. The exhibition comprises a mix of Anderson’s old and new artwork, including four new pastels. She started drawing approximately 15 years ago and has taken many art classes, from basic drawing and painting with pastels and watercolors to an introduction to printing. She said she sometimes plays with a subject by using different techniques and media to record it on paper multiple times. Her experience has given her a distinctive style.
Anderson’s work has appeared in a variety of Midwestern juried shows since 1994, and her exhibitions have included a dual show titled “Beauty of Barns” and a solo exhibition at Sister Bay’s Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Gallery in 2007. This past January, she was named Door County Memorial Hospital Artist of the Month and took part in the Broad Salon exhibition at the Door Community Auditorium’s Link Gallery.
The Fairfield Center for Contemporary Art is open free to the public, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday during the offseason. For more information about the art center and its upcoming exhibitions and events, call (920) 746-0001, send e-mail to info@fairfieldcenter.org or visit www.fairfieldcenter.org.