January 28, 2021

Welcome to my e-update!

To suggest local events, articles and topics of interest to highlight in a future update, email my office at Sen.Ballweg@legis.wisconsin.gov.

Joan Ballweg Leadership Scholarship

* Click picture above to play my video message*

I’m State Senator Joan Ballweg.

Since I was first elected to the Assembly in 2004, I have offered scholarships to area high school seniors. The Joan Ballweg Leadership Scholarship was established to empower talented and motivated young adults to carry their momentum into college and beyond. So far, I have provided scholarships to nearly 75 students who have demonstrated leadership in their schools and communities.

This will be my first year offering this scholarship as a State Senator, and as such, will be offering up to twelve scholarships instead of my standard five.

These scholarships are open to all graduating seniors pursuing higher education in a two or four year degree program. Students must be graduating with at least a 3.0 average on a 4.0 point scale and must reside in the 14th Senate District.

All application materials will be distributed to local high school guidance counselors and will be available on my website. You can also contact my office and we will send the information directly to you.

Thanks for watching, have a great Wisconsin Day!

COVID-19 Vaccine Update

Last week, the Department of Health Services announced that the COVID-19 vaccine was going to be made available to those age 65 and over starting this past Monday, January 25th. 

There is currently around 70,000 people in this age group in Wisconsin. Those who are eligible would be able to receive the vaccine by contacting their health care provider, pharmacy or local tribal or public health agency. 

Wisconsin is currently receiving around 70,000 doses of the vaccine a week from the federal government, so it might take some time to reach everyone. Some entities may have began to vaccinate folks in this group before the January 25 date if they had the vaccine on hand and completed the previously eligible populations. 

For more information on resources and data related to Wisconsin's vaccination efforts, visit the Department of Health Services website. 

Snowmobile Responsibly

Wisconsin is the birthplace of snowmobiling and is home to nearly 25,000 miles of groomed trails. I want to remind folks to ride safely this winter, especially after the numerous snowmobile fatalities and crashes that occurred early last year. 

Here are a few tips to keep you safe: 

• Slow down and use extra caution when driving at night
• Don't drink and ride
• Stay on marked trails and routes
• Dress appropriately and carry a first aid kit 
• Remember ice is never completely safe and check conditions of trails before you head out

A valid Snowmobile Safety Certificate is required for any person who was born in 1985 or after and is at least 12 years old, in most areas. Safety course information and registration can be found on the DNR website. 

If possible, travel with a friend and let people know where you are going. Enjoy the trails and ride safe! 

Local Art Displayed in Capitol Office

I am honored that local student, Gabrielle Reiser, is allowing me to temporarily display her painting What Helps Us in my Capitol office. I am proud to have the opportunity to share this artwork as a sample of the talents in the 14th Senate District.