While watching the 2018 Capitol Christmas Tree being adorned with ornaments provided by elementary students from all over the state, I am reminded of what a joy it is to work in the Capitol Building around the holidays. From what I've seen of the ornaments so far, the children have done an outstanding job of capturing this year's theme, which is "America's Dairyland."

The holiday season has been celebrated at the Capitol Building since 1923, when the very first Capitol Christmas Pageant took place outside on the capital grounds. This year's tree is a 35' Balsam Fir from Plainfield, Wisconsin, generously donated by Don and Mary Miller. The Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association were kind enough to provide harvesting and transportation services to ensure that the tree arrived in the best condition possible. While other species of tree have been used in the past, I've heard it said that Balsam Firs are the prefered type of Christmas tree for use in the Capitol Building, due in large part to the fact that they are known to maintain their freshness longer than other evergreens.

I strongly encourage anyone who happens to find themselves in Madison on Tuesday, December 4, to come to the capitol rotunda to watch the official tree lighting ceremony. The festivities begin at noon, but I recommend arriving a little earlier to get a good spot. Please feel free to stop in my office while you're visiting too. My staff and I always enjoy talking with constituents!

Visiting Hometown Pharmacy

I had the pleasure of visiting Hometown Pharmacy today to discuss a wide variety of issues impacting local pharmacies today. With opiod addiction becoming an increasing problem throughout the state, this was a great opportunity to learn more on the topic from a pharmacist's point of view. Pharmacists are on the frontlines of the opiod crisis and the insight that they can provide on this issue should not be overlooked.

Another topic which was raised during the discussion was the insurance industry's impact on the survival of small town pharmacies. It was suggested that many insurers seem to prefer that their clients go to large commercial chain pharmacies, which can cost small town pharmacies their business. Due to this, smaller pharmacies may need to raise their prices on some items, which in turn could lead the loss of even more business to national chain pharmacies.

Welcoming a New Staff Member! 

I am pleased to announce the hiring of Adam Tobias as my new Research Assistant. Adam comes from an impressive background, not just in politics, but in journalism as well. Born and raised in Madison, he is a family man with three children. Outside of work, Adam enjoys writing, traveling, and attending baseball games with his sons. I’m sure Adam will be an invaluable member of my team as I continue to push for the interests of the 1^st Assembly District!

Upcoming District Events!

What: Stocking Stuffer
Where: 214 Church St., Algoma, WI
When: Saturday, December 1, 9:00am - 3:00pm
Details: "Concessions all day, cookie walk, bucket raffles, and much much more! Free admission. Visit with Mrs. Claus from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.and with Santa from 12 – 2 p.m."

What: Holiday Story & Craft Time
Where: Ephraim Library, 9996 Water St., Ephraim, WI
When: Saturday, December 1, 10:00am - 11:00am
Details: "Enjoy a story time, craft, and snack. While there, guess the number of books in the Book Christmas Tree."

What: Winter Farmers Market
Where: Baileys Harbor Town Hall, 2392 Cty F, Baileys Harbor, WI
When: Sunday, December 2, 10:00am - 2:00pm
Details: "Get a head start on your Christmas shopping while browsing great local vendors' home made wares, food, and health and beauty products."