Serving the Greater Northwoods  

 Oneida - Vilas - Florence - Forest

District Dialogue

January 22, 2016

On Tuesday, January 12, Governor Walker addressed the citizens of Wisconsin with his sixth State of the State speech.

I am very encouraged by Governor Walker’s State of the State address. Republican reforms have led to the lowest unemployment levels in 14 years, increased job numbers, reduced taxes for hardworking Wisconsin residents and froze tuition costs for Wisconsin students. Additionally, Governor Walker and Wisconsin Republicans will continue to fight opiate and heroine abuse by creating and funding treatment programs. I believe that Wisconsin continues to be heading in the right direction.

Speaker Vos addressing the Wisconsin legislature
  

Along with reforming state government, Governor Walker remains dedicated to making college more affordable for Wisconsin students and families.  For the fourth consecutive year tuition has remained frozen at UW campuses.  Additionally, Governor Walker discussed his college affordability legislative package which includes the following initiatives that will make college more affordable:

• Allowing full deduction of student loan interest on state income taxes

• Increasing Wisconsin grants for technical colleges to help an additional 1,000 Wisconsin students on top of the 5,000 students we added under our Blueprint for Prosperity

• Expanding the emergency grants program for students at technical colleges and two-year UW Colleges

• Increasing internships within the UW System to help students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a career

• Looking to expand transparency by sending information to students each year about their current and projected student loan debt level and education costs

Governor Walker also expanded on his commitment to funding mental health programs in Wisconsin.  In the last two budgets alone, the Governor has invested nearly $30 million in mental health programs and treatment.  As he stated in his speech, currently there is more funding for mental health than under any Wisconsin governor in 25 years.

I will continue to work to make state government smaller and more efficient.  As Governor Walker stressed, "The State of the State is Strong!"

If you were unable to watch the State of the State, please visit the Working for Wisconsin website to view it. 

I wanted to take a moment to congratulate the Decker Family and the city of Eagle River on another successful World Championship Snowmobile Derby.  I was able to attend the event on Friday, January 15 with Governor Walker and Senator Tom Tiffany.  Great event with non-stop entertainment!

Photo Credit: Gary Ridderbusch, Vilas County News Review

Senator Tom Tiffany, Governor Walker, and Rep. Swearingen enjoying the derby!

Governor Walker Chatting with Derby Track Owner, Dick Decker

On Wednesday, January 20, the Assembly Committee on State Affairs and Government Operations, a committee which I chair, held a public hearing and executive session.  Discussion focused on Assembly Bill 460, a bill which was heard late last year.  This bipartisan bill increases the amount of money a person claims if they were wrongfully convicted of a crime.  During the public hearing, compelling testimony was heard from Wisconsin citizens who spent years in jail for crimes they did not commit.  After thorough testimony and numerous amendments the bill was voted out of committee.  I would like to thank all committee members for diligently working on this legislation.  If you would like to review any of the bills discussed in my committee this week, please follow the links below.

Executive Session

Assembly Bill 616:  Relating to: hauling restrictions for special interest motor vehicles.

Assembly Bill 460:  Relating to: resolution of claims against the state for wrongful imprisonment of innocent persons, exempting from taxation certain amounts an individual receives from the claims board or legislature, health benefits for wrongfully imprisoned persons, and making appropriations. (FE)

Public Hearing

Assembly Bill 633: Relating to: copies of certain vital records. (FE)

Assembly Bill 641: Relating to: eliminating the Joint Survey Committee on Tax Exemptions.

Assembly Bill 730: Relating to: local regulation of certain containers.

It proved to be a very busy week in Madison with an Assembly session day and various committee hearings.  Fortunately, I had time to meet with members of local credit unions who traveled to Madison for a Legislative Day.  I was pleased to see so many familiar faces from Ripco, CoVantage, Park City and Bullseye credit unions in my office on Wednesday.  Please be sure to visit again next year!

Rep. Swearingen along with Credit Union members on the Assembly Floor

For Immediate Release : January 20, 2016                                                                                                                                                               
Contact: Rep. Mike Rohrkaste : (608) 266-5719

Task Force Unveils Alzheimer’s and Dementia Legislative Package

Madison – The Speaker’s Task Force on Alzheimer’s and Dementia is introducing ten, bipartisan bills to improve the care of those suffering from these diseases by providing community-based resources and education. Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in America and the only one in the top ten that can’t be prevented, treated or cured, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

“This is a serious long-term problem and we need some real solutions to help the growing number of Wisconsinites and their families coping with Alzheimer’s and dementia,” said Task Force Chair Rep. Mike Rohrkaste (R-Neenah). “This legislative package is hopefully just the beginning of our efforts to ensure quality care while keeping costs under control.”

The Wisconsin Cares legislative package includes the following policy initiatives:
· Investing $1 million in respite care
· Expanding the number of dementia care specialists
· Educating caregivers and employers about Alzheimer’s and dementia
· Increasing dementia training for mobile crisis teams

The legislation was developed using the input from experts, caregivers, state officials and community members, many of who attended the six bipartisan task force hearings held around the state.

“It’s important to recognize that Alzheimer’s and dementia already affect so many in Wisconsin and their reach is only expected to grow in the years ahead,” said Task Force Vice-Chair Rep. Diane Hesselbein (D-Middleton). “The bills we are introducing today take important steps to provide for those suffering from these terrible ailments and those who provide for their care.”

These are the first recommendations from lawmakers and more policy initiatives may follow before the task force completes its work. The bills are being released for co-sponsors later today and committee hearings are anticipated within the week

“I want to thank the task force members and the hundreds of individuals who gave us important information and recommendations,” said Rep. Rohrkaste. “I am proud of the work that the committee has done on this issue.”

For more information on the Task Force on Alzheimer’s and Dementia, go to http://legis.wisconsin.gov/2015/committees/assembly/ad/.

Following freezing temperatures across the state, most counties are starting to return to a warmer pattern this week, which is good news for those looking for relief from cabin fever.

Areas in northern Wisconsin received snowfall this week, but snow depths currently vary considerably across the state with minimal snow cover in the southwest to more than a foot in far northern Wisconsin. Many park and forest ski trails are groomed and ready for cross-country skiers; however, many hikers are still able to traverse trails without needing snowshoes. Snowmobile trails remain open in about a dozen counties, mostly in the far northern and west central parts of the state on the Wisconsin Department of Tourism's Snow Conditions Report (exit DNR).

Colder temperatures were around long enough to freeze many previously partially-open water bodies around the state and open them up to eager ice anglers, though larger bodies remain open in patches and all ice should be treated as suspect until known otherwise. Northern pike anglers reported success, an improvement compared to the still reluctant walleye bite. There have been reports of fair to moderate perch, bluegill and crappie success.
Ice has finally moved in to most areas along the east shore of Green Bay with the recent streak of cold temperatures. Anglers at Voyageur Park reported 6 to 8 inches of ice and catching some walleye and perch jigging in 6 to 10 feet of water. Anglers that took to the ice in Little Sturgeon at Lime Kiln Road and Big Rock Place did fairly well for whitefish with some limits being reported at both locations. Closer to Sturgeon Bay anglers haven't been seen on the ice yet as open water was still seen on the west end of the canal last week.

Canines like foxes and coyotes are beginning their breeding seasons along with beavers and squirrels. Whitetail bucks are beginning to shed antlers, and deer and turkeys are being seen actively feeding in stubble fields during the day.

Grouse and squirrel hunting is still open until the end of the month and rabbit season runs until Feb 29. The metro archery season is still open within Milwaukee County, providing hunters additional opportunities until Jan. 31.

Great horned owls are very talkative most nights/early mornings, as are barred owls. They are both beginning courtship activity. In addition to those residents, juncos and a variety of sparrows are popping up at the feeder, rough-legged hawks are appearing in hayfields and a portion of the eagle population is hanging around as a result of a relatively mild winter so far.

There are a half dozen snowshoe and cross country ski events scheduled for this weekend, including a candlelight skis at Governor Dodge State Park and the Storrs Lake Wildlife Area. For a complete list of events, search the DNR website for "Get Outdoors."

Northern Region

Flambeau River State Forest - There has been some ice fishing activity on the northern lakes. Connors Lake has been busy even with the low temperatures. There are some diehard fishermen out there enjoying their Mr. Heaters! Lake of the Pines fishing has also been active but not as much. There is an average of 6 to 7 inches of ice on these lakes. The ice on the river is treacherous. It is open in some areas and covered in others. If your plan is to fish the river, be sure to call ahead and find out the thickness of the ice beforehand. The deer are dropping their antlers. The frigid temperatures drive the deer, wolves, coyotes, and elk into the conifer covered areas for warmth. They sleep more and conserve their energy. Bear, chipmunks, and ground squirrels are in their hibernation mode thereby conserving their energy. The logging activity is going strong in the Forest but working in the subzero temperatures is hard on the equipment and the loggers. This morning's temperature was -20 degrees. The forecast for this week is leaning towards warmer temperatures (teens and 20s), and according to the National Weather Service a possibility for snow the next few days early next week as well. Join us for our 24th Annual Candlelight Ski at the Flambeau River State Forest. The event will be held from 6-9 p.m. on Saturday Feb. 6, at the Flambeau Hills Trail Head. Starting at 5 p.m. that Saturday all day-use fees at the trail head will be waived. A 1.8 kilometer loop of trail will be groomed, tracked and lit with over 600 candles. The trail is for skiers or hikers and winds through the heart of the forest. The trail is wide enough for diagonal striders and skate skiers. Hiking and snowshoeing are also permitted during this event. - Diane Stowell, visitor services associate

Woodruff DNR Service Center area

Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest - Snow depths are still on the low side, still allowing a hiker to move just about anywhere without having to wear snowshoes. One still needs to be cautious around wetlands because you never know where there will be a spring area under the cover of snow. Redpolls are adding to the comradery around area bird feeders. Due to recent cold air temperatures ice has formed and is growing in depth. Foot traffic and some ATVs and snowmobiles are being seen along shores or bays of lakes. Snowmobile clubs have not marked trails across lakes yet. Lake ice is very inconsistent this year so caution is needed. Be aware that otters make breathing holes and ice expanding can form cracks and fissures. Rivers and streams are still flowing at above average levels from November and December rains. Three campsites are plowed at Clear Lake Campground for winter campers. Use has been very light, so come on out - you will likely have the campground to yourself! Portions of the roadways in Clear Lake and Crystal Lake Campgrounds are plowed for winter walkers to have a safe place to walk out of the snow. - Kimberly Krawczyk, Visitor Services Associate
Cross-country ski trails were last groomed Jan. 15 and 21. Escanaba trail was groomed and tracked Jan. 15. Some thin spots under the pines. Good conditions. On Jan. 21 Madeline was tracked and McNaughton skate loop was groomed and all other loops tracked. Shallow track with thin base under the heavy conifers. Overall good conditions. Raven Trail was tracked Jan. 21. Shallow tracks with thin base under the heavy conifers. Overall good conditions. - Tony Martinez, forestry facilities worker
 

The Rhinelander School District will hold a binding referendum on February 16, 2016.  In an effort to keep the residents and taxpayers of the Rhinelander School District informed, please follow the link below for more information.  The website will update periodically to include the newest information.  The link will help inform residents on all aspects of the referendum this spring.

Rhinelander School District Referendum

Recently the School District of Rhinelander released dates for community presentations to inform the public about the upcoming referendum.  Please see the dates below.

- February 2nd, 2:00 p.m. at Northern Coffee Haus

- February 10th, 10:00 a.m. at the YMCA of the Northwoods (Multi-Purpose Room)

A full listing of community presentations can be found on the School District of Rhinelander website. 
 

Upcoming Community Events

Please click the following links for upcoming community events!

Indoor Farmers Market At The YMCA: January 23 & 30, Rhinelander

30th Annual Great Northern Ice Fishing Tournament: January 23, Lac Vieux Desert

5th Annual Chilly Chili Challenge to Benefit NW Wildlife Center: January 23, Minocqua

9th Inga Lami of the Northwoods: January 23, Minocqua

Northwoods Children's Museum Mad Tea Party: January 24, Eagle River

Northern Lights Snowmobile Club Meeting: January 25, Hiles

Demmer Library Lunch Learn Series: January 28 and February 2, Three Lakes

Rhinelander Chamber Annual Dinner: January 28, Rhinelander

Snowmobile Radar Run: January 29-30, St. Germain

Minocqua Winter Farmers Market: January 29, Minocqua

Pig Skin Poker Run: January 30-31, Land O' Lakes

Wolf Tracks Rendezvous Ski Marathon & Half: January 30, Minocqua

18th Annual Ice Cold Beer Festival: January 30, Minocqua

Fibber's Annual Ice Fishing Tournament: January 30, St. Germain

Sno-Buddies Chili/Soup Cook-Off: January 30, Conover

Snowball Gala: January 30, Rhinelander

4th Annual Blind-Fold Snowmobile Scholarship Races: January 30, Phelps

Mike Roberts Memorial Ski Race & Lessons: January 30, Florence

Northern Lights Snowmobile Club Trip: February 2, Three Lakes

Arrowhead Groomer Show: February 3-4, St. Germain

11th Annual Labatt Blue USA Adult Pond Hockey Championships: February 5-7, Eagle River

8th Grade Chicken Dinner Fundraiser: February 5, Manitowish Waters

Roadhouse 139 Annual Ice Fishing Derby on Long Lake (formerly Flatlanders): February 6, Florence

Conover - Volunteer Fire & Rescue 7th Annual Ice Fishing Classic: February 6, Conover

Land O'Lakes - Three Bear Dog Sled Races: February 6, Land O' Lakes

Mushers Ball: February 6, Land O' Lakes

Winter Festival Craft Sale: February 6, Land O' Lakes

Phelps School Winter Carnival: February 6, Phelps

Soups On! Hosted by the Boulder Junction Lions Club: February 6, Boulder Junction

Sno Skeeters Breakfast at the Pea Patch: February 7, Manitowish Waters

Winter Rendezvous: February 13, Manitowish Waters

Sno-Bunnies Raffle Drawing: February 14, Presque Isle

WinMan Windigo Snowshoe Stomp.: February 14, Presque Isle

Please contact me at Rep.Swearingen@legis.wi.gov if you would like to UNSUBSCRIBE from my E-Updates

Office of Representative Rob Swearingen

Room 123 West

PO Box 8953, Madison WI 53708

Office: 608-266-7141

Toll Free: 888-534-0034