State of Wisconsin Blue Book
2009 - 2010

July 2009

Dear Readers:

The State of Wisconsin has always celebrated many diverse qualities that make it such an excellent place to live, work and play. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the thousands of lakes many use for recreation, to Milwaukee's beautiful skyline and to the farms and forests spread throughout our state, Wisconsin is a state we are proud to call home.

Residents of Wisconsin have become accustomed to state leaders who fight for the best interests and rights for everyone, and strive to improve the overall quality of life in Wisconsin. As elected leaders of our state, we will continue to work hard for our constituents. We must ensure that as public leaders, Wisconsin's government lives up to its founding values: hard work, sense of community, concern for others and commitment to educating future generations.

I am proud to lead a state with such a progressive tradition, and will continue to work with state legislators to further these principles. The State of Wisconsin's Blue Book serves as an excellent resource for information of the current and past leadership of Wisconsin. This year, the Wisconsin Blue Book features even greater insight into one of Wisconsin's most intriguing and historic fields of study – astronomy.

Astronomy is one of the first fields of science studied at the University of Wisconsin, and continues to remain at the forefront in astronomical research. In "Wisconsin at the Frontiers of Astronomy: A History of Innovation and Exploration" (Page 100), you will see the contributions of Wisconsin go beyond the borders of our state – and our planet.

Whether gazing at a starry night sky or admiring the beautiful murals of the State Capitol dome, the Wisconsin Blue Book will serve as a helpful guide to our state's history and present. As citizens of Wisconsin, I encourage you to remain active in state politics. If there is an issue you feel particularly passionate about – whether it be health care, taxes or the environment – use the Blue Book as a resource to contact your local politicians and express your views.

Thank you for picking up the 2009-2010 State of Wisconsin Blue Book. It will undoubtedly be a resource you will both use and enjoy.

Sincerely,

Jim Doyle

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