Memorial Day

On this Memorial Day please take some time to pay tribute to the men and women who gave their lives for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. 

Budget Update

This week the Legislature took additional action on the State Budget. The Joint Finance Committee (JFC) voted to:

• Reward schools providing in-person learning with the highest ever per pupil funding
• Double funding for mental health services in schools
• Provide the highest ever funding for special education
• Increase funding for the Wisconsin Technical College System

This historic support for education is on top of the billions of dollars in federal support that has been allocated to Wisconsin schools as part of COVID response from the federal government. 

I will continue to provide updates throughout the budget process. Please never hesitate to reach out regarding your thoughts on the state budget. 

DNR's Annual Free Fun Weekend

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is hosting the 9th annual Free Fun Weekend June 5-6. Park admission fees, fishing licenses, and trail passes will be waived for Wisconsinites to find their adventure outdoors.

Wisconsin is home to 49 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams, roughly 15,000 lakes and so much more. Before heading to a state park, trail, or waterbody near you, here are some helpful things to know:

STATE PARKS

• Admission stickers will not be required.
• All state parks will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Drive-up windows, playgrounds, bathrooms, and observation towers are open.
• Stand-alone concession facilities are open to the public at 50% capacity.

 TRAILS

• Trail passes will not be required for both residents and non-residents.
• All linear/rail trails will be open to the public, including ATV trails and horseback riding trails.

 FISHING

• Residents and non-residents will not be required to have a fishing license or trout/salmon stamps.
• All 2021-2022 fishing regulations apply, including bag and length limits.

 BOAT LAUNCHES

• All DNR boat launches are open.
• Boats must be registered, which can be done either online or via mail.

 SAFETY

• Wear a lifejacket at all times when fishing from a boat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.
• Use boat lights after sunset.

COVID-19 Vaccine Update

All Wisconsinites age 16 and over are eligible for COVID-19 vaccines. However be aware that, some areas of the state may have a higher demand for vaccinations and may have waitlists. Vaccine providers will prioritize anyone previously eligible such as public-facing essential workers and people with medical conditions.

The Marathon County Community Vaccine Clinic at Northcentral Technical College's Center for Business and Industry is still operating from 11 am to 7 pm, Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please use the WI COVID-19 registry.

2019-2020 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, including census information, state history, official state symbols, and everything about Wisconsin government! Contact me for your free copy today!