Hands Around the Capitol

I had the honor of speaking at an event at the Capitol this week called Hands Around the Capitol. The event is sponsored by the Youth Advisory Committee, which consists of current and former foster youth that advocate for the needs of children in out-of-home care in Wisconsin. 

As part of the event, we heard from Secretary-designee Emilie Amundson; UW Parkside Director of Admissions and Recruitment, Troy Moldenhauer; several former foster youth; and State Rep. Lisa Subeck (D-Madison). Each of our goals is the same: raise awareness and make positive change happen for our foster youth.

In Wisconsin, we are fortunate to have so many individuals dedicated to helping our foster kids overcome the trauma and hardship they faced in their youth. If you are interested in being part of this movement, I encourage you to reach out to my office today! 

Each year, the Department of Natural resources hosts a "Free Fun Weekend", during which residents and visitors can experience Wisconsin's recreational activities for free. Individuals can go fishing without a license; enjoy hiking and biking trails without a trail pass; be admitted to state parks and forests for free; and ride public ATV trails for free! This is a great opportunity for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the beauty and outdoors experience that Wisconsin has to offer! Click here for more information! 

Budget Update

This week, several significant investments were made by the Joint Committee on Finance (JFC). The Committee voted to increase the starting wage for correctional officers, who are due for an increase. Starting pay will jump from $16.65 per hour to $18.65 per hour, in addition to a cost of living increase, which, by the end of the biennium, will put CO starting wage over $19/hour. 

Another significant investment that was approved of by JFC this week pertains to K12 education. The committee voted to approve more funding to go directly into classrooms; increase special education aid; and increase funding for mental health services in schools. Check out our press conference on it here!   

Project SEARCH

On Thursday, I had the opportunity to participate in another "Take Your Legislator To Work Day"! This time, I visit students at Aspirus Hospital to see how they contribute to the everyday operations of the hospital. I had a great time visiting! 

Thursday afternoon, I was able to see several individuals graduate from the same program, called Project SEARCH. Project SEARCH is an initiative by Aspirus Wausau Hospital that gives individuals with developmental disabilities the skills needed to be competitive in the workforce. Thursday's graduation was for the first class of Project SEARCH participants. See Channel 7's story on it here. 

2017-2018 Blue Books & maps (paper highway maps or laminated maps) are still available in my office! The Wisconsin Blue Book contains information on all things Wisconsin: your elected officials; census information; the official state dog, tree, flower, etc.; government processes; and so much more! Contact me for your free copy today!