It was a busy week for committee work in the Capitol as three Assembly committees I serve on held meetings to debate and vote on legislation:
The Assembly Committee on State Affairs held an executive session on Assembly Bill 471 relating to the creation of grants for Next Generation 911 equipment. Next Generation 911 aims to improve our emergency number services by creating a faster system capable of handling more digital information flows. The bill successfully passed out of the committee and is now available to be scheduled for a floor vote in the Assembly.
Rep. Swearingen chairing the Committee on State Affairs.
The Assembly Committee on Forestry, Parks and Outdoor Recreation held an executive session on Assembly Bill 134 related to the amount of funds obligated under the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program for water infrastructure projects in state parks. This bill was voted out of the committee and is available to be scheduled for a floor vote.
The Committee on Forestry, Parks and Outdoor Recreation.
Finally, the Assembly Committee on Small Business Development held an executive session on Assembly Bill 26 related to direct primary care agreements. The bill will allow individuals and families to visit a primary care doctor for a flat monthly membership fee instead of paying per-visit fees. The bill was successfully passed out of the committee and is available to be scheduled for a floor vote.
The Committee on Small Business Development.
Eagle River Hockey Dome Tour
I had the opportunity to tour the Eagle River Hockey Dome this week with community leaders and representatives of the Wisconsin Historical Society to discuss the ongoing renovations to the Dome. The Wisconsin Historical Society can provide historic facilities with tax credits to offset the costs of renovations. The Eagle River Dome, as a historic landmark in the Northwoods, qualifies for these credits. I am excited to see the renovations move forward and for the Dome to continue being a major part of the Eagle River community for years to come.
Rep. Swearingen with community leaders and representatives from the Wisconsin Historical Society tour the inside of the dome.
One goal of the renovations is to replace the ice-making compressor with a more energy-efficient version.
Pelican Area Community Picnic
The Pelican Area Community Picnic was held last weekend on Lake George. Callie Hoerchler of the Town of Pelican took up the responsibility of organizing the event and did a fantastic job. Callie raised funds through the event that will go to improving and expanding the public beach on Lake George for the entire community to enjoy. I was happy to present Callie with a citation from the legislature in recognition of her great work.
Great to see the community come out and enjoy the festivities.
Rep. Swearingen presenting Callie with a citation on behalf of the State Legislature for her work organizing the annual picnic.
James Javenkoski to receive First Responder of the Year Award
Congratulations to James “Jim” Javenkoski for being chosen to receive the First Responder of the Year award representing the 34th Assembly District. After much consideration and many deserving individuals, Jim was selected for his outstanding service and dedication to the Rhinelander area community through his work as a first responder and volunteer fire fighter with the Pine Lake Fire Department. Jim will be recognized at an exclusive ceremony in the State Capitol on October 10th. Congratulations Jim!
DNR Update: Youth Deer Hunt Happening This Weekend
MADISON, Wis. -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources wants to remind all participants of this weekend's popular youth hunt for deer to review and to know the safety rules of this annual event.
The youth hunt held Oct. 5-6 is only open to persons 15 years and younger who have a gun deer license to hunt with a gun or other legal weapon before the regular firearm seasons. The youth hunt is open to all residents and non-resident youth hunters with a gun-deer license and appropriate tags.
As in previous years, those new to hunting can celebrate their first harvest with the official first deer or first hunt certificate. Follow the instructions on the page to upload a photo of your first deer and describe the experience. For more information, and to create a first deer certificate, search keywords "first deer certificate."
"Many youths are busy with schoolwork and extracurriculars," said Chief Warden Todd Schaller. "The youth hunt was designed to provide an additional opportunity outside the traditional deer seasons. It's an opportunity to spend time outdoors observing nature, spend time with family and friends, and to slow down and breathe, yes and, hopefully, harvest a deer."
Youth hunters may hunt in all Deer Management Units except state park and non-quota units. A gun deer hunting license is required if hunting with a firearm. The bag limit is one buck per gun buck deer harvest authorization, plus one additional antlerless deer per antlerless deer harvest authorization valid for the Deer Management Unit the youth hunter will be hunting. Youth hunters who possess an archer or crossbow license may continue to hunt with a bow or crossbow during the archery/crossbow season, which runs concurrently with the youth gun deer hunt. All other hunting regulations apply.
Here are more highlights of the rules:
Blaze orange is required for all hunters statewide, except for waterfowl hunters. The blaze orange requirement includes archery hunters and small game hunters.
Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult guardian - even if the youth is 14 or 15 years old and has a hunter education certificate.
One adult may not accompany more than two youths at the same time. Accompany means within visual and voice contact without the aid of any amplifying device - other than a hearing aid.
Hunting mentorship rules apply to all youths who are age 11 and younger - as well as to any youth who have not completed a hunter education certification.
Learn more about youth hunts on the DNR website, where hunters can also review regulations.
Cranberry Fest in Eagle River
Cranberry Fest will be held this weekend in Eagle River. More than 40,000 people attend annually, and for good reason! From cranberry food sales, an open air antique market, and live entertainment, there is something for the whole family to enjoy! Please click here to learn more about Cranberry Fest.
Community Events
Please click the following links for upcoming community events!
