Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and I want to wish you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving. I am thankful to represent the 67th Assembly District, and I hope you have a safe and filling holiday!

Special Session Senate Bill 2 relating to the WHEDA Small Business Development Loan Guarantee Program was signed by Governor Walker at S&S Cycle on Monday, a business that was a recipient of a WHEDA Small Business Loan.

SS SB 2 modifies the WHEDA Small Business Development Loan Guarantee Program so that WHEDA can allot funding in the most effective manner. Removing barriers that impeded eligible borrowers from participating in the program will help loans be guaranteed to those small businesses who will have the most beneficial economic impact.

This legislation was a bipartisan effort to improve opportunities for economic development in Wisconsin. Both small business employers and employees are critical to job growth and both Democrats and Republicans recognize their value to communities across the state.
 

Recently, the Governor signed a package of bipartisan supported transportation bills that are aimed at encouraging job growth and updating Wisconsin’s transportation regulations. Easing the burdens on farmers transporting agricultural crops during harvest, straw, or hay is important to rural economies. In addition, helping rather than hindering small businesses and farmers can lead to expansion which stimulates the economy.

If you would like to read the bills and their histories, please go to the following links:
Assembly Bill 64
Assembly Bill 248
Assembly Bill 252
Assembly Bill 253
Assembly Bill 267
Senate Bill 215
Senate Bill 222

I am happy both Democrats and Republicans came together to help bring Wisconsin up to date with neighboring states and help our state become more competitive in the international marketplace.

My fall survey is up on my website. I am looking forward to hearing your input on a wide range of topics. I hope you will be able to find time to fill it out and let me know your opinion.

The link to the survey on my website is: Fall Survey.

DECORATE THE CAPITOL CHRISTMAS TREE

Governor Walker is asking art teachers, parents, and youth from all over Wisconsin to help decorate the Capitol Christmas Tree. The theme this year is Honoring 163 years of Wisconsin’s Veterans.

The 2011 Capitol Christmas Tree was found in the Brule River State Forest area. Once the tree has been put up in the Capitol Rotunda and lit, it will be decorated from November 28th to December 2nd.

Submissions of ornaments are due by December 1st, and the ornaments must be designed based on the theme Honoring 163 years of Wisconsin’s Veterans. The ornaments can be mailed to:

Governor Walker’s Office
State Christmas Tree Ornament Program
P.O. Box 7863
Madison, WI 53707-7863

I look forward to seeing the ornaments and their designs!