Preparing for the 101st Legislative Session

Preparations have already begun for the upcoming legislative session.  Speaker-Elect Robin Vos and Minority Leader Peter Barca have announced the inauguration date for newly elected State Representatives.  Inauguration will take place on January 7^th, at 2:00 PM.  Representatives elected for the first time and those re-elected will all take part along with their families.  Republicans will have 11 new members serving our state with a 60-39 majority.  The Wisconsin Assembly has extended invitations to all former Speakers of the Assembly and should be a real highlight as the past meets the present. 

Speaker-Elect Vos has also announced the Assembly Chair for the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) - Representative John Nygren of Marinette with Representative Pat Strachota of West Bend serving as the Vice-Chair.  The Joint Finance Committee is in charge of reviewing and making any changes after Governor Walker introduces his 2013-15 Biennial Budget.  Other members of the committee include Representative John Klenke from Green Bay, Dale Kooyenga from Brookfield, Dan LeMahieu from Cascade, and Dean Knudson from Hudson.

Speaker-Elect Vos is expected to name the chairs of additional committees in the coming weeks with all committee assignments closely following.  I look forward to serving the new 42^nd Assembly District in whatever capacity I am asked and appreciate your support.

Capitol Christmas Tree

Once again Christmas comes to the Capitol.   The 37-foot Balsam fir tree, from Meyer Castle Tree Farm in Medford, is decorated by handmade ornaments from school children around the state.  The theme this year is “In Wisconsin,” and features ornaments representing local goods made in Wisconsin.  A small model train runs around the base of the tree and is slated to remain up until after New Year’s.  Governor Walker held a small tree lighting ceremony Friday morning, along with representatives from Wisconsin tree farms. 

Holiday Tours of Executive Residence Announced

While in Madison, a visit to the Executive Residence is a top stop.  During the holiday season the Executive Residence is decorated with six Christmas Trees and a tour includes a view of the main rooms on the first floor.   

2012 Holiday Tour Schedule 

Wednesday, December 5: Noon- 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 6: Noon-2:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 8: 10:00 a.m.-Noon

Wednesday, December 12: Noon-2:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 13: Noon-2:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 15: Noon-2:00 p.m.

Visitors are asked to bring non-perishable food items to help the needy this holiday season.  Here's a link for more information on the tours and to sign up if you're bringing a large group.