GOODBYE TO SUMMER VACATION

Wishing all of our students, educators, and support staff a wonderful school year of growing and learning!

GOODBYE TO THOSE WHO GAVE ALL IN AFGHANISTAN

LAND OF THE FREE BECAUSE FO THE BRAVE

Last week, our US troops experienced the greatest one-day loss of American life in Afghanistan in a decade. Even more innocent Afghan citizens were injured or killed. Rep. Dittrich's heart goes out to all of those who were lost and their families, as well as to the American citizens who are desperately continuing to try to leave amidst the terror. She prays we can get them all safely home.

WI GOP LEGISLATURE LETTER TO PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN REGARDING AFGHANISTAN

Last week, Rep. Dittrich joined her colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden on their frustrations and expectations regarding the withdrawal from Afghanistan.

VETERANS CRISIS HOTLINE

With the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, losing more lives in the process, the need for veteran mental health support has increased.

If you or someone you know is in need of intervention, reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line 24/7.

FORT MCCOY CONGRESSIONAL TOUR

Concerns continue with refugees housed at Fort McCoy. While we want to be certain to help those who have helped us during this difficult 20-year war, we must assure the safety of Wisconsinites by making certain these individuals are properly vetted.

Sadly, a delegation of our Wisconsin Congressmen recently toured Ft. McCoy and learned at that time, not one SIV (Special Immigrant Visa) holder was housed at the facility. Furthermore, refugees may freely leave the base at any time.

For a more detailed description, view Congressman Tom Tiffany’s interview describing what he saw.

ASSISTING AFGHAN REFUGEES IN WI

Several constituents have asked how they might help the refugees at Ft McCoy.

The following are the official channels that Fort McCoy would like to use to collect donations, volunteers and other incoming help. They want to make sure that all donations and offers to help are received and managed efficiently and effectively. Funneling generosity through these three entities will help in that effort.

• The American Red Cross has more than 50 personnel on the ground at Fort McCoy to provide critical care and help to our Afghan guests. Financial gifts will help the American Red Cross continue to fund efforts to help the people affected by this crisis.
• Team Rubicon partnered with the American Red Cross to coordinate local volunteers and donors throughout the Wisconsin community to improve the well-being of our Afghan guests. More information about Team Rubicon and how to volunteer is available.
• Catholic Charities of the Diocese of La Crosse, Wisconsin, launched a campaign to provide assistance. They are accepting donations at 3710 East Avenue South in La Crosse, and they have a gift registry set up through Amazon Smile. Amazon Smile allows donors to purchase needed items and have them shipped directly.

We will continue to update information on these and other volunteer and donation opportunities as they become available. Again, thank you for your continued efforts as we band together -- military and civilian -- to share the hope of a new start to those in need.

HOPING FOR BETTER PROTECTION OF THOSE WITH UNEMPLOYMENT ISSUES

Please be aware of the following text scam regarding unemployment benefits!

If you have questions about the legitimacy of a text you received, DWD provides updates online about current scam reports.

LOOKING FORWWARD TO MORE LEGISLATION TO BE ROLLED OUT NEXT WEEK

Rep. Dittrich and her team have been working tirelessly on a variety of bills relating to issues ranging from rare diseases, to adoption, to preserving life.

Look for announcements coming out on those bills after the Labor Day weekend.

NATIONAL SUICIDE AWARENESS MONTH

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. With the brutal levels of stress and bullying we all endure these days, suicide continues as a dire concern.

Learn more about the month and how to get help from the National Alliance on Mental Health.

DRAW YOUR DISTRICT WISCONSIN

Every 10 years, the legislature receives the most recent census data from the Federal government, and is responsible to draw new district boundaries adjusting to the updated population changes. Wisconsin’s Constitution requires the lines be drawn through the legislative process. These redrawn districts will be the new lines for all upcoming elections including local, state and congressional for the next decade.

Any Wisconsin resident can participate in this process by visiting Draw Your District Wisconsin. Three free web-based redistricting tools are given, you can make a full statewide map, regional plan, or draw a community of interest. Plans are uploaded and submitted to the legislature for public input. Submissions may be made now through October 15, 2021.

CONSTITUENT CORNER

Oconomowoc's Grand Opening Celebration of this world class, community built skate park will be held this upcoming Saturday, September 4th at 11 AM.

Hope to see many of you there!

HAPPY LABOR DAY

To every hard-working Wisconsinite, enjoy this last long weekend before the unofficial end of summer!