BULLETIN BOARD

Feb. 8 - Janesville, Forum: Why Unions Matter

2012-01-27T00:41:00.001-06:00

Forum -- “Why Unions Matter”

Walker's attack on collective bargaining was part of a larger assault on all unions. Yet many don't seem to realize how unions matter to them. This forum will address how unions are important to all working people, even those not in unions.

Wednesday, February 8, at 6 PM

Basics CO-OP Natural Foods, 1711 Lodge Dr, Janesville, WI 53545

Speakers:

Kathleen Falk, gubernatorial candidate, former Executive of Dane County

Ed Sadlowski, AFSCME, Janesville district staff representative

6 PM-6:30 PM cheese & cracker reception (nonalcoholic potluck)
6:30 PM-8 PM, speakers & discussion

Presented by the Rock County Progressives, our mission is to promote education & activism around progressive issues in Rock County.

Jan. 26 - Janesville, The "State of Rock County" Address

2012-01-24T13:26:00.001-06:00

Join us Thursday, January 26, 4:25-5:00 at the Janesville Job Center, 1900 Center Ave., as we tell the media the truth about "The State of Rock County."

The day before, the Governor will talk about how wonderful the economy and education are doing since he took office. We will gather to tell what is really happening in Rock County.

Facebook

Jan. 21 - Milton, RCP Meeting

2012-01-19T16:10:00.000-06:00

There will be a meeting of the Rock County Progressives this Saturday, January 21, at 10:30 AM at Charming B's in Milton.
819 E. High St.

Suite 1 in the old church on the southeast corner of 26 & E. High St. Coming from the south on 26, make a right into the parking lot just before High Street.

Jan. 18 - Janesville Drinking Liberally

2011-12-27T19:38:00.000-06:00

The scheduled Drinking Liberally meeting for Jan. 4 is cancelled.

We are moving the Janesville Drinking Liberally to the 3rd Wednesday of the month for January and every month after that.

That makes our next meeting on Jan. 18. We are meeting at the same time and same place. 7PM at The Speakeasy Lounge, downtown Janesville.

Jan. 11 - Janesville, Walker To Wall Street Pt. 2

2011-12-15T19:50:00.000-06:00

Forum--"Walker to Wall Street Part II: How ALEC (American Legislative Exchange Council) changed Wisconsin."

Speakers:

Rep. Mark Pocan, 78th Assembly District.

Lisa Graves, Executive Director Center for Media and Democracy, Executive Director of the Center for Media and Democracy, the publisher of PR Watch, SourceWatch, BanksterUSA, and ALECexposed.org.

Wedneday, Jan 11 at Basics Food Coop, Janesville

6 PM-6:30 PM cheese & cracker reception (nonalcoholic potluck)

6:30 PM-8 PM, speakers & discussion

Basics CO-OP Natural Foods, 1711 Lodge Dr, Janesville, WI 53545

Jan. 7 - Janesville, Standing For Justice

2011-12-11T22:14:00.000-06:00

Interesting looking program from our friends at the Rock Valley Fellowship of Reconciliation!

Standing for Justice at the Capitol

Saturday, January 7, 2012

4 p.m Basics Cooperative Community Room, 1711 Lodge, Janesville

Join us in welcoming Bart Munger, citizen resister, cited for wearing a sign that says “I love Wisconsin.” Chris Reeder, leads the Solidarity Sing Along at least 6 times every week in the Capitol Rotunda Matt Rothschild, citizen resister, Progressive Magazine editor, cited for wearing a sign that states the 1st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

Dec. 17 - Milton, RCP Meeting

2011-12-11T22:10:00.000-06:00

The next meeting of the Rock County Progressives will be this Saturday, December 17, 11 AM in Milton at Charming B's,

819 E. High St. Suite 1, Milton, WI 53563 · Phone 608-580-0530, Charming Coffee

Dec. 14 - Janesville Forum, Walker's War On Working People

2011-12-04T22:11:00.000-06:00

Forum--Walker's War on Working People:
How his policies & actions have hurt Wisconsin's 99%

Speakers:
Rep. Chris Taylor, 8th Assembly District (Labor & Workforce, Ways & Means and Health Committees), former public policy director of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin

Ben Manski, Wisconsin Wave, Liberty Foundation, Move to Amend coalition, campaign manager Green Party presidential campaign

Wednesday, December 14
6 PM-6:30 PM cheese & cracker reception (nonalcoholic potluck)
6:30 PM-8 PM, speakers & discussion

Basics Food Cooperative, 1711 Lodge Dr, Janesville, Wisconsin

Dec.7 - Janesville, Drinking Liberally

2011-12-01T20:34:00.000-06:00

Hello Progressives,

Janesville Chapter of Drinking Liberally will meet Wednesday Dec. 7 at 7 PM. WE meet at the Speakeasy Lounge in downtown Janesville.

The Janesville chapter of Drinking Liberally is sponsored by Rock County Progressives.

Drinking Liberally is a national organization and is under the Living Liberally umbrella. To help build our membership please visit the website (link below) and sign-up to receive monthly updates.

http://livingliberally.org/drinking/chapters/WI/janesville

Janesville Drinking Liberally will be meeting the first Wednesday of every month at the Speakeasy Lounge, downtown Janesville. At this time we are scheduled from 7-9 PM, but we are open to increasing the time and possibly days if enough interest is shown.

Some of us don't actually drink alcohol and we often order some food from the Speakeasy menu. So everyone should feel free to come and join us.

I am one of the co-hosts for Janesville Drinking Liberally.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
The first pitcher is on me!
See You there,
Ken Pearson
critster@charter.net

Nov. 20 - Milton, Rock County Progressives Meeting

2011-11-16T19:56:00.000-06:00

The next meeting of the Rock County Progressives will be on Sunday, November 20, 4 PM at Deb's Family Dining, 100 Front Street, Milton WI

Hope to see you there!

Please let us know what you think even if you can't come to the meeting. You can do so by e-mailing me at oggc@psly.net or the RockCountyProgressives@Gmail.com (you cannot simply hit reply to this e-mail as it is a moderated list).

Nov. 19 - Madison, Recall Walker Rally

2011-11-16T18:27:00.000-06:00

This entire movement was started by the incredible turnout of people last February who came to stand up against Scott Walker’s extreme attacks on the working people of Wisconsin.

Your voice is needed again this Saturday in Madison.

RSVP to join United Wisconsin and our partners in Madison for the Recall Scott Walker Rally at the Wisconsin State Capitol.

Recall Scott Walker Rally
Wisconsin State Capitol (State Street Side)
Saturday, November 19
11:00am - 2:00pm

Live entertainment starts at 11:00am, and hundreds of petition circulators will be on hand to collect signatures.

Be part of the “Can Walker” campaign – Thanksgiving is coming up, please bring a non-perishable food item with you to the rally to help those that need our help this holiday season.

We hope to see you there!
- United Wisconsin

Nov. 17 - Whitewater, OWS Recall Walker

2011-11-13T00:14:00.000-06:00

Time Thursday, November 17 at 2:00pm - November 18 at 9:30pm

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Location The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, 800 W. Main Street, in front of the Anderson Library and Hyer Hall

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Created By Tomcat Healer

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More Info Come join progressives from Whitewater and the surrounding area as we “occupy” Whitewater and plan for Walker’s recall.

The event starts at 2 p.m. on Thursday, November 17 and will continue until 9:30 a.m. the following day. Come as you can, and please bring donations of people food and pet food for the food pantry and area animal shelters.

* We’ll have a booth to sign petitions to Recall Walker.

More at Facebook

Nov. 14 - Janesville, Potluck For Recall Volunteers Kick-Off

2011-11-07T22:53:00.001-06:00

Time Monday, November 14 at 5:30pm - November 15 at 12:00am

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Location UAW Local 95 Hall
1795 LaFayette St.
Janesville, WI

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Created By Lisa Buening Sheldon

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More Info 5:30PM - 6:45PM Potluck - bring a dish to pass, soda and your own table service. (Milk, Coffee be provided).

6:45PM - 7:15PM Welcome speakers and kick off!

7:30PM - 8:30PM Voter ID training - get the all the new info on the new Voter ID law, voter registration and what we need to do to educate the public

9:00PM - 10PM Petition Training

10:00PM - Midnight Brainstorming and strategy session for petition drive.

Midnight - SIGN THE RECALL PETITION FOR WALKER & KLEEFISCH!!!!!

Questions? call me - Lisa Sheldon 608) 302-1960 or email: unitedwiscvc@gmail.com or viviancreekmore @gmail.com

Nov. 12 - Janesville, Recall Walker & Kleefisch Training

2011-11-07T22:52:00.000-06:00

Saturday, November 12 · 2:00pm - 5:00pm

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Location UAW HALL JANESVILLE
1795 LAFAYETTE STREET
Janesville, Wisconsin

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Created By Democratic Party of Rock County

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More Info There will be a training THIS SATURDAY for people interested in volunteering for the RECALL effort. Please RSVP here or send a message to Lisa Sheldon, Steph Mulvey, or Vivian Creekmore. Keep in touch through Facebook.

Nov. 10 - Orfordville, Rock Forward

2011-11-06T14:37:00.000-06:00

Thursday, November 10 · 6:30pm - 9:30pm

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Location KNUTES BAR AND GRILL
206 E Beloit St,
Orfordville, WI 53576

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Created By Vivian Creekmore

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More Info Eat, drink, and lively conversation with great people on the 2nd Thurs of the month! No RSVP. No meeting, No speakers. Just fun in a different locale around Rock County each month. See you in Orfordville!

Nov. 9 - Janesville, Ed Garvey Forum "Walker to Wall Street

2011-10-31T21:14:00.000-05:00

Wednesday 6 PM, November 9, 2011

Forum--"Walker to Wall Street: How the Koch Bros. & ALEC changed Wisconsin"

Speakers:

Ed Garvey, co-founder of Fighting Bob Fest, editor and publisher of FightingBob.com.

A Madison "Occupier" (To be announced)

Elliot Majors of the Recall Walker Campaign

6 PM-6:30 PM cheese & cracker reception (nonalcoholic potluck)
6:30 PM-8 PM, speakers & discussion

Basics CO-OP Natural Foods, 1711 Lodge Dr, Janesville, WI 53545

Nov. 8 - Beloit, Walker Recall Training

2011-10-31T21:11:00.003-05:00

Time Tuesday, November 8 · 7:00pm - 9:00pm

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Location UNITED STEELWORKERS HALL
1620 Shore Drive, Beloit, WI 53511
Beloit, WI

Phone: 608-362-2812

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Created By Democratic Party of Rock County

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More Info (Directions from Janesville: take HWY 51 to Beloit. Turn right on Portland Ave [White St.], right on 4th Street, left onto Maple and a quick right onto Shore Drive. Henry Ave. bridge is closed.)

This training is for anyone interested in being involved with the RECALL WALKER efforts.

Everyone can attend the most convenient time and place--regardless of location.

Nov. 3 - Janesville, Walker Recall Training

2011-10-31T21:06:00.000-05:00

Thursday, November 3 · 7:00pm - 10:00pm

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Location UAW - HALL
1795 Lafayette Street Janesville, WI 53546-2844 (608) 755-5120
Janesville, WI 53546-2844

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Created By Democratic Party of Rock County

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More Info There will be a training for people interested in volunteering for the RECALL WALKER effort this Thursday, 11/03/2011, at 7PM. Please RSVP here or send a message to Lisa Sheldon, Steph Mulvey, or Vivian Creekmore. Keep in touch through

Facebook

Nov. 2 - Janesville, Drinking Liberally

2011-10-31T20:30:00.001-05:00

It is time again for the Janesville Drinking Liberally chapter to meet. We will meet Wednesday, Nov 2 at 7:00 PM. We meet at The Speakeasy lounge downtown Janesville.

Drinking Liberally is sponsored by Rock County Progressives.
See You Wednesday,
Ken Pearson

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Drinking Liberally Janesville Chapter

Promoting Democracy one pint at a time

Share your politics while you share a pitcher at your local progressive drinking club. An informal gathering of like minded, left-leaners who may want to trade ideas, get more involved, or just enjoy each others company.
Drinking Liberally is sponsored by RC Progressives. We meet at The Speakeasy Lounge in downtown Janesville (map), 7:00 PM, on the first Wednesday day of every month.
To sign-up for Janesville DL updates visit Drinking Liberally.

Nov. 1 - Madison, United Wisconsin Grand Opening

2011-10-23T21:50:00.001-05:00

United Wisconsin Office Grand Opening!
November 1, 2011
5:00pm - 8:00pm
1605 Monroe Street, Madison WI

RSVP to events@unitedwisconsin.com

Join us in our new Madison office on Tuesday, November 1 to mix and mingle with other grassroots leaders working to recall Scott Walker. November 15 is going to be here before you know it, and this will be a great opportunity to sign up to volunteer and to learn more about how United Wisconsin's 200,000 plus supporters are leading the way to recall Walker.

Please RSVP to events@unitedwisconsin.com.

Help us make this office functional and bring one of the many needed items below with you:

Flip Chart Paper
Poster Board
Garbage Bags
Markers and Pens
Notepads
Printer Paper
Paper Cutter
#10 Envelopes
Envelope Sealers
Toilet Paper
Paper Towels
Disposable Plates and Cups
Food (non-perishable snacks)
Beverages (coffee, tea, soda, water)

If you can't make it on November 1, please consider supporting United Wisconsin by making a contribution online at United Wisconsin.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you on Tuesday, November 1!
Sincerely,

Ilana Strauch and Lynn McKenzie
Statewide Volunteer Coordinators

Oct. 28, Janesville - Ryan Townhall

2011-10-19T21:47:00.000-05:00

Wall Street Congressman Paul Ryan wants to hear from his constituents. He will be hosting a townhall meeting in Janesville:

Friday, October 28, 2011
9:00 - 10:30am
Pontiac Convention Center, 2809 North Pontiac Drive

Oct. 24 - Janesville, Voter ID Forum

2011-10-12T13:25:00.000-05:00

A spokesperson from the Government Accountability Board will discuss the Voter I.D. law. Those without a voter I.D. can also acquire the DMV paperwork to apply for free identification during this event.
Sponsored by Democracy Rocks - Janesville

Created By Democratic Party of Rock County

Time:
Monday, October 24 · 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Where:
Basics Natural Foods Co-Op
1711 Lodge Drive
Janesville, WI

Created By
Cathy Myers and Roger
For DEMOCRACY ROCKS - Janesville, Wisconsin

Oct. 22 - Milton, RCP Meeting

2011-10-11T13:47:00.000-05:00

The next meeting of the Rock County Progressives will be on Saturday, October 22, 10:30 AM at Deb's Family Dining, 100 Front Street, Milton WI

Chuck,

RockCountyProgressives@Gmail.com

Oct. 15 - Occupy Janesville!

2011-10-08T13:20:00.001-05:00

Main St. Occupation for The American Dream
Corner of Court St and Main St.
51 S. Main St
Janesville, WI 53545

Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, 12:00 PM

Let's come together in Janesville Wisconsin to show local solidarity with the brave protesters in New York City. Wall St. told us that their banks were too big to fail. Now is the time for country to stand together and show Wall St that the American Dream is too big to fail!

Event Facebook

Oct. 14 - Madison, Young Progressives

2011-10-08T13:19:00.000-05:00

The Young Progressives, the Obama for America team on UW's campus, is proud to welcome former Sen. Russ Feingold back to his alma mater as a guest speaker at Memorial Union on Friday, October 14 at 4:30 pm.

Sen. Feingold will speak about student involvement, the 2012 elections, and campaign finance reform. He will also be available for questions.

The Young Progressives would like to invite you to join us and the Senator on the 14th. Please RSVP by clicking here: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gpz5w2

The Young Progressives provides opportunities for students on UW's campus to be involved with progressive politics. Among our initiatives are a joint intern program with Obama for America. If you wish to apply for an internship or become a general volunteer, please contact Outreach Director Bobby Lange (bobby@theyoungprogressives.com), or stop by our office in room 3156 in the Student Activity Center.

Also be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter! ‘Like us’ at facebook.com/YoProWI, and follow us @YoProWI.

The Young Progressives

Oct. 13 - Milton, Rock Forward

2011-10-08T13:00:00.001-05:00

THIS THURSDAY OCTOBER 13:

ROCK FORWARD—JUNCTION PUB, MILTON, 6:30
EAT, DRINK, & LIBERAL CONVERSATION!

Who: Anyone interested in liberal conversation

What: GET-TOGETHER once a month to eat, drink, and TALK. No RSVP, no agenda, no meeting—just socializing. Order and pay for your own.

NEXT GET-TOGETHER:

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13, 6:30 PM
JUNCTION PUB, 130 MERCHANT ROW, MILTON

Facebook

Oct. 13 - Beloit, Meet Mark Pocan

2011-10-08T12:30:00.002-05:00

Anyone interested in meeting Mark Pocan? Come and meet 2nd district Congressional candidate State Rep. Mark Pocan next Thursday (October 13) at Denali's Food & Spirits in Beloit from 5-7pm. Rep. Pocan is a seven-term state legislator who was the former Co-Chair of the Joint Finance Committee, and is a leading progressive in the Wisconsin legislature. Hope to see you there!

Mark Pocan for Congress.

Fighting for Wisconsin's working families.

Oct. 12 - Janesville, Recall Elections Forum

2011-10-03T16:42:00.000-05:00

The Recall Elections (Past and Future)
Lessons Learned... Challenges ahead...

Speakers:
Ted Lewis Director, Rock Valley Education Professionals
Marcia Riquelme, Wisconsin Recall Task Force.
Janis Ringhand, Representative 80th Assembly District

Wednesday, October 12
6 PM-6:30 PM cheese & cracker reception (nonalcoholic potluck)
6:30 PM-8 PM, speakers & discussion

Basics Food Cooperative, 1711 Lodge Dr, Janesville, Wisconsin

rockcountyprogressives@gmail.com

Oct. 4 - Drinking Liberally

2011-09-29T13:40:00.001-05:00

Our next social gathering, “Drinking Liberally” will be held on Wednesday, October 4, at the Speakeasy in Janesville, at 7 PM.

The Rock County Progressives are sponsoring the gathering -- Drinking Liberally is an independent organization with chapters throughout the country, including Milwaukee & Madison.

The Speakeasy Lounge and Restaurant is at 19 North High Street.

Sept. 27 - Janesville Postal Service Rally

2011-09-23T23:04:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday, September 27, America’s Postal Service Members of the four Postal Service employee unions – APWU, NALC, NPMHU and NRLCA – and community allies will rally in every congressional district to let people know what’s at stake for our families and neighbors and urge lawmakers to save the Postal Service by supporting H.R. 1351.

Janesville Postal Service Rally

Where: 20 South Main Street, Janesville

When: 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

*Important* - The Janesville rally will NOT be held at the Janesville Post Office.

The Postal Service is critical to our economy – delivering mail, medicine, and packages on time and for a good price. Yet plans are underway to close thousands of post offices, eliminate Saturday delivery, close mail processing facilities, cut service, and lay off 120,000 employees.

These cuts won’t just hurt Postal Workers – they will hurt every American, every community and every business.

More locations and info here>>>.

Sept. 25 - RCP Meeting

2011-09-21T14:20:00.001-05:00

There will be an “organizing meeting” of the Rock County Progressives this Sunday, September 25 at noon, at Charming B's coffeehouse, 819 E. High St. Suite 1, Milton, Near the intersection of 26 & High street. Go east at High and then turn right into the driveway.

Proposed agenda:

Speakers for next forum in October on the recalls, past and future.

Drinking Liberally--new location (if you can't come but have a good idea of where to hold it, please let us know).

Creating a web site.

The Walker recall-- regional meetings.

Voter ID campaign?

Other business.

Sept.15 - Kenosha, DIY Townhall

2011-09-12T20:01:00.000-05:00

Where:
Gateway Technical College's Madrigrano Auditorium
3520 30th Ave., Kenosha.

When:
Thursday, Sept. 15
6 p.m. - Residents can sign up for two-minute speaking
spots starting at 7 p.m

KENOSHA — The local progressive group Community for Change will hold a do-it-yourself town hall meeting Thursday for U.S. Paul Ryan, R-Janesville, likely without the congressman.

At the meeting, area residents will be able to address a photo of Congressman Ryan, who represents Racine County, and make a statement or ask a question as if it were an actual listening session, according to a news release from Community for Change. The town hall will be taped, and speakers' names and addresses will be recorded and forwarded to Ryan.

Story here.

Sept. 14 - Janesville Forum, Kloppenburg

2011-09-01T21:24:00.000-05:00

Forum: Lessons Learned... Improving Wisconsin's Elections

Speaker: JoAnne Kloppenburg

Recent candidate for the WI Supreme Court, Assistant Attorney General Kloppenburg has been a litigator and prosecutor at the Wisconsin Department of Justice since 1989, serving under Attorneys General from both parties: Don Hanaway, Jim Doyle, Peg Lautenschlager and JB Van Hollen.

Wednesday, September 14
6 PM-6:30 PM cheese & cracker reception (nonalcoholic potluck)
6:30 PM-8 PM, speakers & discussion

Basics Food Cooperative, 1711 Lodge Dr, Janesville, Wisconsin

Sept.12 - Janesville, Coffee w/Rob Zerban

2011-09-01T21:22:00.001-05:00

Monday, September 12 · 11:00am - 2:00pm

Location Union Labor Temple
1605 Center Avenue
Janesville, WI

More Info
Everyone is invited for "Coffee with Rob Zerban" Monday September 12 from 11:15 till noon at the Labor Temple.

Couldn't get an appointment with Paul Ryan? This is your opportunity to meet his opponent for 2012--ask questions and share your concerns and priorities with him.

Bring a friend or neighbor and meet for coffee at 11:15 on Monday at the Labor Temple.

Sept. 7 - Drinking Liberally Meeting

2011-08-27T15:27:00.000-05:00

The next meeting of the Rock County Progressives will be on Wednesday September 7 at 6:30 PM.

We will be discussing plans for our October forum. I’m thinking maybe we should do one on past and future recalls? Ideas for topics/speakers are welcome, e-mail me at rockcountyprogressives@gmail.com if you have some good suggestions and are unable to make the meeting.

It will be followed by a social gathering At 7:00 PM, “Drinking Liberally.” This is a national organization with chapters in Madison & Milwaukee. While it is sponsored by RCP, it is not affiliated.

Location: Fins in Newville: Fins Bar and Grill | 723 Ellendale Road, Edgerton, WI 53534 | 608.884.0346

"Drinking liberally" doesn't mean a lot or necessarily alcohol :-).

We are being a bit more organized this fall, all of our meetings/socials will be held on the 1st Wednesday of each month, and the forums will be the 2nd Wednesday.

Hope to see you there!

Chuck

Sept. 3rd - West Allis Counter-Hate

2011-08-26T16:30:00.000-05:00

Neo-Nazis are planning a rally in West Allis on Sept. 3, hoping to capitalize on a racially charged incident that took place recently at the Wisconsin State Fair.

In response, the people of West Allis and Milwaukee are organizing a massive counter-rally to reject the Nazi message of racism and hate. Wisconsin Network for Peace and Justice has arranged for buses from Madison to West Allis. Bus fare is $15, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Call 608-250-9240 to reserve your seat.

Event Date:
09/03/11
COUNTER-HATE DEMONSTRATION

Peace Action is in process of working out with dozens of organizations to counter a Nazi rally that is taking place at City Hall in West Allis on Sept. 3 at 2:00pm. We will be hosting a press conference at 12:00pm with community allies and Mayor Dan Devine of West Allies, location TBA. We will also be demonstrating beginning at 1:00pm in West Allis, further details forthcoming. Please contact dan@peaceactionwi.org or call 414-964-5158 to get involved.

Sept. 1st - Ryan's Office Speak-Out!

2011-08-26T15:22:00.001-05:00

Soup Kitchen and Speak-Out!

Thursday, September 1 · 5:00pm - 7:00pm

Location
US Congressman Paul Ryan's Janesville Office
20 S. Main Street
Janesville, WI

Please Join Nurses for a Soup Kitchen and Speak-Out!

Buses Leaving from Madison:
3:30pm: Memorial Union; 4pm: GEF Bldg (King + Webster St)

We'll bring a much needed dose of reality to US Congressman Paul Ryan, while feeding the people that Wall Street and its political lackeys have devastated and turned their backs on.

Tell Congressman Ryan “Where It Hurts” in Janesville!

While Wall Street banks got bailed out of the financial crisis that THEY caused, Main Street towns like Janesville are suffering!

Deep cuts in social services, further corporate tax-breaks and schemes to privatize Medicare and Social Security will only result in the further devastation of Main Street.

Urge US Congressman Paul Ryan to support a Tax on Wall St. to bring quality jobs, housing, healthcare and education back to Main Street!

Buses Leaving from Madison:
3:30pm: Memorial Union
4pm: GEF Bldg (King + Webster St)
(Returning approx. 8pm)

Please call Jan at 510-757-5925 to save a seat on the bus, or for endorsements or questions.

Aug.25 - Madison, Workers Unite!

2011-08-14T13:58:00.000-05:00

Time Thursday, August 25 · 4:30pm - 6:00pm

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Location Library Mall up State Street to Capitol steps

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Created By J Eric Cobb

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On this day Wisconsin State Employees will receive up to a 13% pay cut courtesy of Gov. Walker. This pay cut does not just impact state workers, but all Wisconsinites.

The Economic Policy Institute estimates that wage reductions implemented by Act 10 will cost the state nearly $1 billion in economic activity. Walker and his cronies demand wage cuts for workers while offering massive handouts to corporations and the super-wealthy.

Sign Up to Join this rally and read more here.

Peoples Rights Campaign

Aug. 15 - Recall Lawn Party JVL

2011-08-12T22:29:00.000-05:00

MON AUG 15, 5-8 pm: RELAX AND RECALL LAWN PARTY!!!
*BRING A CELL PHONE, LAWN CHAIR, COLD DRINK AND SNACK TO
SHARE!

Meet at 515 St. Lawrence Ave, Janesville. Home of Cathy Aubrecht

Vivian Creekmore

Aug.10 - RCP 2nd Annual Gathering

2011-07-30T15:35:00.000-05:00

... the disaster continues despite being largely ignored by the national media.

We also celebrate the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Gulf region.

Speakers:

Neil Dupree, retired pastor, First Christian Church, Janesville
Holly Denning, UWW sociology & race/ethnic studies

and YOU... come prepared to share your recollections, reflections and feelings about New Orleans & the Gulf.

4pm-9pm... 6pm potluck PICNIC, 7pm Speakers
Wednesday, August 10, Riverside Park, North Pavilion
2200 Parkside Dr., Janesville

Going north on N Washington St (Rte 14) turn right at Golf Course Rd (park entrance), right at Edge Hill Drive, left at Riverside Park Rd, follow river north to end of park.

Event Facebook

Flyer

rockcountyprogressives@gmail.com

July 28, Ft.Atkinson Walker Reception

2011-07-24T23:01:00.000-05:00

As reported at Lost Comtinent:

A reception awaits Gov. Walker in Fort Atkinson on July 28th, where he is scheduled to dedicate a building used to improve the lot of the disabled, a group he is normally attempting to render even more destitute through his policies. Anyone interested in unwelcoming the governor can do so starting around 5:00 PM at 100 East Cramer in Fort Atkinson. His Highness is scheduled to speak at 7:00PM

July 27 - Edgerton, Drinking Liberally

2011-07-17T21:13:00.000-05:00

We will be gathering socially at Fin's in Edgerton at 7 PM, Wednesday July 27, to organize a local chapter of “drinking liberally,” hope to see you there. Living Liberally

We will be having a picnic Wednesday, August 10, second annual celebration of the Gulf of Mexico (the first was after the BP spill), stay tuned for details.

Chuck (Rock County Progressives)

July 14th - Rock Forward Meeting

2011-06-20T22:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to ROCK FORWARD! Join us on:

Thursday, July 14th at 6:30pm,
RAY'S FAMILY RESTAURANT
1102 North Main Street (Hwy 51)
Edgerton, WI

We're a liberal and progressive thinking social group without much structure. Our monthly get-togethers rotate around Rock County in order to be inclusive of everyone.

Buy your own drinks/food from the menu and ROCK FORWARD with kindred spirits!

Keep up to date via our Facebook page.

June 29th - Janesville Medicare Forum

2011-06-09T23:21:00.001-05:00

Forum on How Ryan Would Destroy Medicare.

Speakers:

Rob Zerban, Kenosha County Supervisor and candidate for the first Congressional District (Paul Ryan's).

Robert Kraig, Executive Director of Citizen Action of Wisconsin, author of "Rep. Paul Ryan's Budget Plan a Trojan horse Assault on American Values"

Wednesday, JUNE 29
6 PM-6:30 PM, cheese & cracker reception (nonalcoholic potluck)
6:30 PM-8 PM, speakers & discussion

At: Basics Food Cooperative
1711 Lodge Dr Janesville, Wisconsin

Chuck (Rock County Progressives)
rockcountyprogressives@gmail.com

Stand Up for Wisconsin's Transit

2011-05-18T21:51:00.000-05:00

Your legislator, Rep. Knilans, will soon have an opportunity to vote for the budget. I am writing to urge you to call him today at (608) 266-7503. The message is simple: “Work for changes to the budget, AB 40, that support a more balanced approach to transportation. Transportation options and local tools are needed to provide relief for traffic and air pollution problems.” The budget contains provisions that could devastate transit systems, unless you call today and voice your concerns. As a constituent in Rep. Knilans’ district, you have the power to sway his opinion on this issue. Investing in transit will benefit riders, the community, and the clean up our air and reduce the threat of climate change!

CALL REPRESENTATIVE KNILANS (AD 44) TODAY AT (608) 266-7503,
Rep.Knilans@legis.wisconsin.gov

Calling Tips:
- Slowly state your name, address, and phone number to verify that you’re a constituent.
- Leaving a message with staff or on the voicemail is OK.
- After you call, let us know you took action at: elizabeth.ward@sierraclub.org. We want to hear how the legislative office responded to your concerns and keep a tally of the number of calls he received.

Background: The Budget has 3 key threats to transit: 1.) Repeal of the regional transit authorities, 2.) 10% cuts to transit aid, and 3.) Moving transit from the transportation fund and into the general fund. Therefore, we are asking for Rep. Knilans to work for budget changes that will do the following:
* Avoid moving transit from the transportation into the general fund (pg 43), where it will compete with other basic services also slated for drastic cuts. Transit is a form of transportation and must be considered along with highways, local roads, bicycle and pedestrian funding in determining the most cost-effective, efficient solutions to our mobility needs.
* Avoid cutting state transit aids by 10%. Transit systems are already facing serious cuts as a result of the budget repair bill, which jeopardizes $47 million in federal transit aid due to the loss of collective bargaining rights for transit workers in unionized systems. Transit should not be cut further when Wisconsinites are facing record high gas prices as they travel to work and school.
* Restore Wisconsin’s regional transit authorities (RTAs) which were eliminated by the Joint Finance Committee through an amendment passed on May 3. RTAs are essential tools needed by local governments in order to raise stable, dedicated transit funds and make up gaps in state and federal transit funding. RTAs should be fixed – through requiring binding referenda before raising sales tax, etc, NOT eliminated, especially in communities like Dane County, SE Wisconsin, Chippewa Valley and Chequamegon Bay that have shown a strong desire for RTAs.
Transit is important to communities because:
· It provides jobs. According to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), every $1 billion invested in public transit supports and create 36,000 jobs.
· It helps the economy. According to a WisDOT study, on average, every $1 spend on public transit proves a $3.61 economic return.
· It’s better for the environment. APTA determined that a single person, commuting alone by car, who switches a 20-mile round-trip commute to transit, can reduce his or her annual CO2 emission by 4,800 pounds per year.

Thanks for taking action today!
Elizabeth

Elizabeth Ward- Programs Staff
Sierra Club- John Muir Chapter

Elizabeth.Ward@sierraclub.org222 South Hamilton Street, Suite 1
Madison, WI 53703-3201
Phone: (608) 256-0565Fax: (608) 256-4JMC
http://wisconsin.sierraclub.org/https://www.facebook.com/SierraClubWI

May 9th-DNR Hearing Factory farm

2011-05-08T22:41:00.000-05:00

What: DNR Public Hearing concerning CAFO (Factory Farm) on the Rock Prairie.

When: Monday, May 9th, 4 PM.

Where: Rock County Fair Grounds, Craig Center Building, 1301 Craig Avenue, Janesville, WI

The Wisconsin DNR will be holding a public hearing to listen to comments from residents concerning Todd Tuls proposed dairy in the Town of Bradford just east of Janesville.

Please attend this meeting and let the DNR know what you think about these types of operations. Do your research and come prepared to speak.

Rock Environmental Network, Inc.
"When People Lead, the Leaders will Follow."

April 19, Paul Ryan Visits Area

2011-04-15T15:07:00.002-05:00

Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan plans to tour his southeastern Wisconsin district to talk about federal policy issues.

After running up a debt tab of over $6 trillion in Federal spending during the Bush era, Ryan has now found a new urgency to reduce spending by shifting government priorities away from senior age safety nets and manipulating the tax code to pursue his ideological agenda.

Ryan intends on visiting the following communities.

Tuesday, April 19

MILTON: 9:00-10:00am, The Gathering Place (Upstairs Dining Room), 715 Campus Street

ELKHORN: 10:45-11:45am, Matheson Memorial Library, 101 North Wisconsin Street

DELAVAN: 1:00-2:00pm, City Hall, 123 South 2nd Street

CLINTON: 2:30-3:30pm, Village Hall, 301 Cross Street

JANESVILLE: 4:00-5:15pm, City Hall, Council Chambers, Room #417, 18 North Jackson Street

Source

Apr. 6, Meeting - Friends of Rock Prairie

2011-04-05T12:11:00.001-05:00

Friends of Rock Prairie will discuss the proposed Rock Prairie Dairy with the Rock County Board of Health at the board’s meeting this Wednesday evening, April 6, at 6 p.m. at 3328 N. US Highway 51 in Janesville. The citizens will follow this up with another discussion of the factory farm with members of the Rock County Land Conservation Committee at 7:15 p.m. at the USDA Service Center, 440 N. US Highway 14, Janesville.

March 24 - Forum at Basics

2011-03-23T17:49:00.000-05:00

Come Alive on April 5

Forum on the importance of electing Joanne Kloppenburg to Wisconsin’s Supreme Court to counter Governor Walker's agenda of ending public union workers' collective bargaining rights in Wisconsin.

Speakers will include Peg Lautenschlager, former State Attorney General, and Ted Lewis, director of the Rock Valley Education Professionals.

Date: Thursday, March 24
Time, 6:30-8 PM
Place, Basics Cooperative, 1711 Lodge Drive, Janesville,
Wisconsin.

The public is invited.

For further information e-mail RockCountyProgressives@Gmail.com

Local Protests Planned

2011-03-18T23:21:00.002-05:00

From the Milwaukee Area Labor Council AFL-CIO

Friday, March 25th,2011- 7:30 A.M.
Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast Picket- Representitives Wynn, Knilans, and Loudenbeck to be present. Country Club of Beloit, 2327 Riverside Drive. We will picket on the sidewalk.

Tuesday March 29, 2011 - 5:00 PM
Protest Governor Walker at Forward Janesville Dinner, Holiday Inn Express & Conference Center, Janesville

March 10, Rally Milton Teachers

2011-03-09T22:14:00.000-06:00

MILTON—The Milton Education Association, Milton’s teachers union announced that it plans to sponsor another rally in support of public employees Thursday afternoon in Milton.

According to a posting on the teachers union’s facebook site, the rally will be at 4:30 p.m. Thursday at Milton East Elementary School, along Highway 26 in Milton.

The post said the group hopes to double attendance it had at a rally last Thursday at the elementary school. The rally drew a crowd of teachers and other public employees, union members said.

The group had gathered to protest Gov. Scott Walker’s pending budget-relief bill, which seeks to curtail collective bargaining rights for public sector unions and tp force the union members to pay more for health and retirement benefits.

Forwarded by Rock County Progressives

March 9, Ft. Atkinson Rally

2011-03-08T15:55:00.001-06:00

There will be a rally for Public Employees on Wed. March 9th on the Main St. bridge from 5-6 p.m. The Community Informational Forum will be postponed because of a need for more coordination of speakers and for the schools and city to gather more information. A key factor is that the city needs more time to gather more information on how the budget will impact it. We do not wish to give out incorrect or incomplete information.

Please bring family and friends to the rally. If all goes well, we may have another the following week before the Forum.

Jude Hartwick
FEA V.P.

Forwarded from Rock County Progressives

March 7, Harmony Town Board Meeting

2011-03-07T00:04:00.000-06:00

Alert to all citizens that are concerned about center pivot irrigation from the proposed mega-dairy on the Rock Prairie:

What: The Harmony Town Board Meeting
When: Monday, March 7, 2011 at 7:00PM
Where: Harmony Town Hall, 440 N Hwy 14, Janesville, Wisconsin
(same side of the road, next door to Silha & Sons Excavating).
The agenda includes: Center Pivot Manure Ordinance.

Here are a couple of info links, there are many documents on line.

Johnstown Bans Center Pivot Manure Sprayers

Pivot Irrigation Study

Rock Environmental Network, Inc.
"When People Lead, the Leaders will Follow"

Alert! Farmland Protection Update

2011-03-03T23:16:00.000-06:00

People from across Wisconsin are voicing opposition to Gov. Scott Walker's proposal to eliminate the state's program to permanently protect farmland. We need your help to reach out to lawmakers and the governor with a simple message: Don't wreck Wisconsin's farmland protection program.

Gov. Walker's budget proposes to zero out funding for the Purchase of Agricultural Conservation Easement program and wipe the program off the books. The American Farmland Trust and Gathering Waters Conservancy are helping to organize grass-roots supporters of farmland protection. We need your help.

Please contact your state representative and senator and urge them to reject elimination of the PACE program and to work for secure funding sources. Even if funding is temporarily limited, it makes no sense to eliminate the program! It was supported by a broad, bipartisan coalition of farmers, local officials, citizens and land trusts when it was created in 2009. Wisconsin does not want to lose this excellent opportunity for farmers and their families to protect farmland and pass their farms on to the next generation.

Initially funded with $12 million in bonding authority over two years, PACE has exceeded expectations in popularity with farmers eager to protect their valuable farmland for future generations. Seventy-six applications covering more than 18,600 acres of some of Wisconsin's best agricultural land were received during the program's first two application rounds - much more than could be protected with the initial funding for the program!

In addition to the governor's budget, bills have been introduced in the Senate and Assembly to eliminate PACE and its funding sources. Your legislators need to hear from you, and now.

A few facts that show the importance of this program:

Wisconsin was 9th in the nation in the amount of agricultural land developed from 2002-2007 and 4th in the nation in the amount of prime farmland - the very best farmland - developed during that same period. While pressure to convert farmland may have slowed in the last two years, history shows that when the economy recovers the loss of farmland will return. The Wisconsin PACE program is a vital hedge against the incessant push of growth and development over rural communities and farmlands.

Local groups across the state are organizing efforts to reach out to lawmakers, contact media and take other steps to save Wisconsin's farmland preservation program. We need you to join the rising crescendo.

For more information, go to www.wisconsinfarmland.org, or contact:

Bill Berry
American Farmland Trust/Protecting Wisconsin's Farm and Forest Lands
1973 Strongs Ave
Stevens Point WI 54481

Feb. 24 - Rallies Janesville-Beloit

2011-02-23T13:38:00.001-06:00

Subject: Let's Rock Rock Valley this Thursday!

Greetings labor coalition folks,

Some may have received notice elsewhere, but we have a rally doubleheader lined up for this Thursday. Let’s send some love towards Senator Cullen and our union brothers and sisters; and some encouragement to our current elected assemblyfolks to do the right thing (“Amy, Evan Joe-this bill’s gotta go!”). As inspiring as events have been in Madison, we need to focus on our territory in keeping up support and pressure where appropriate. We cannot let the other side dismiss actions as just a “Madison thing.”

Beloit Rally: Thursday, February 24, 4:00PM, 1240 Riverside Drive

Janesville Rally: Thursday, February 24, 7:45, Downtown Courthouse (51 S Main St.) on Main St. Sidewalk.

Thanks to everyone who has taken action, and I look forward to seeing many of you this Thursday.

Solidarity!

Ted

Feb. 21: Rockin' In Madison

2011-02-20T00:28:00.001-06:00

On Monday, Tom Morello, Wayne Kramer, Street Dogs and other musicians will join teachers, students, community members, religious leaders in the state capitol to rally against Gov. Walker’s radical proposals against workers and their union. They will call for policies that support the middle class and leaders who will respect the freedom of working people to collectively call for a better life.

Who: Tom Morello, The Nightwatchmen, Rage against the Machine
Wayne Kramer, of the MC5
The Street Dogs, featuring Mike McColgan former lead singer of the Dropkick Murphys
Ike Reilly
What: performances by artists at the Rally for Wisconsin
Where: State Capitol, Madison
When: Part of the noon and 5:00 p.m. rallies on Monday February 21st, 2011

Feb. 17 - Factory Farm

2011-02-15T12:53:00.002-06:00

The next meeting of the Friends of Rock Prairie is scheduled for this coming Thursday evening, February 17. We will be meeting back in Janesville this time, at:

Hedberg Public Library
316 S. Main Street (by the river)
public meeting room
(ground floor, by the coffee shop)
6:30 till 8 pm

I'd like us to spend some time planning some public outreach-education events for the next month. Let me know if you have other things we should include on the agenda.

I think we should also discuss if there is a more effective way to structure our meetings. I'm wondering if it wouldn't be a good idea to rotate the focus of our meetings: have one meeting devoted to information sharing - education, and the next week's meeting focused on strategy and working, and so forth. What do you think? Please come with your thoughts, and some ideas on how you want to participate.

Contact: Tom Boswell
608/882-0758
tomboswell2002@yahoo.com

Pricele$$ Documentary At Basics

2011-02-13T22:38:00.000-06:00

Rock County Progressives present: Pricele$$, a non-partisan documentary that examines citizens efforts to eliminate a root cause of countless social and environmental problems - the inordinate influence of special interest money in government. From the film makers who brought you Empty Oceans, Empty Nets and Farming the Seas.

Tuesday, February 22
Reception 6:00 pm
Film 6:30-7:30 pm
Basics food cooperative
1711 Lodge Dr Janesville, Wisconsin

rockcountyprogressives@gmail.com

Feb. 10 Meeting - Factory farm

2011-02-08T12:00:00.003-06:00

The next meeting of Friends of Rock Prairie (yes, we have a name now!) is scheduled for this coming Thursday evening at 6:30 PM, February 10, at:

Clinton Senior Center
508 Front Street
(Corner of Hwy 140 & Front)

We are starting to gain traction: A lot of folks sent comments responding to the DNRs Environmental Analysis of the dairy proposal, and our attorney filed a strong statement. (I will attach it.) We had a good meeting with the Rock County Health Department this past Friday, and I think they could be a strong ally.

Now we need to think of ways to influence public opinion and influence the decision-makers who will either enable or prevent the CAFO from becoming reality. Come to the next meeting with your specific ideas on how we can do this! It's not sufficient to be "with us in spirit." I've never known a "spirit" to win a political battle, particularly against big money. It takes bodies and minds and determination and creativity and leadership.

Let's become a strong force for change to preserve and protect our community!

Hope to see you Thursday. Bring a neighbor or friend.

Sincerely,

Tom Boswell
608/882-0758
tomboswell2002@yahoo.com

Feb. 3rd Meeting Factory farm

2011-01-30T17:04:00.004-06:00

Dear Folks,

We scheduled our next meeting on the factory farm for this coming Thursday, February 3, at 6:30 pm. The meeting will be at:

Clinton Senior Center
508 Front Street, Clinton
(corner of Hwy 140 S & Front St.
by the car wash)

Thanks to Norbert Larson for setting this up.

At last Wednesday's meeting, we took more nominations for a name for our group. We tabled the voting until the next meeting. Here are the nominations so far:

Save Rock Prairie
Citizens for the Land
Good Neighbors Unite
Preserve the Land

If you have an idea for a name for our group, please email it to me and/or the whole group by Wednesday. We will choose a name when we meet on Thursday.

We have arranged a meeting with leaders of the Rock County Health Department. It will be held next Friday at 10 am. We have six people committed to participate. If you would like to attend, or have ideas for the agenda, please get in touch with me.

There are also two people who stepped forward to arrange to talk to Bradford Township about passing an ordinance outlawing central pivots (as Johnstown Township did recently). Contact Tim Bliss and Tammy Van Pamel if you want to be part of this effort.

Remember: we have a February 4th deadline to respond to the environmental assessment on the mega-dairy. We will discuss this at the meeting. Here is the link once again:

http://www.dnr.wi.gov/org/es/science/eis/eis.htm

A number of people have suggested that we need to do stream monitoring and test wells in the area now so that we have baseline data in case the factory farm does go in. We added another team at our last meeting. I think Tammy is the only person to volunteer for the water monitoring team so far. We need more recruits!

Here is a suggested agenda for Thursday's meeting. Please let me know if there are other items that should be included that don't fall under these categories.

Draft Meeting Agenda

1) Introductions 6:30 pm

2) Updates 6:40

3) Choose a Name 7:00

4) Response to Environmental Assessment 7:10

5) Landowner spreading contracts 7:30

6) Public Events ??? 7:45

7) Teams: break out to discuss action/strategy 8:00

8) Report back 8:15

9) Adjourn 8:30

Hope to see you on Thursday. You can forward this message on to friends or neighbors that might be interested, but it's better to give them a phone call instead. We have about 40 people on our email list now, but try to call folks that you know don't use email and have come to previous meetings (or may be interested in doing so.)

Sincerely,

Tom Boswell
608/882-0758
tomboswell2002@yahoo.com

Action Alert! - Factory Farm Meeting

2011-01-24T18:08:00.003-06:00

Action Alert:

What: CAFO meeting (huge factory dairy just east of Janesville)
When: Wednesday, January 26th, 6:30 PM
Where: Janesville Senior Center, 69 South Water Street, Janesville

For more information on this meeting, please contact Dwight Brass, retired Environmental Engineer at janicen@ticon.net

"When People lead, the Leaders will Follow"

Dear Fellow Factory Farm Fighters:

This will be a lengthy notice because things are happening so fast, but I’ll try to mention the most important items first.

One: Date & Place of next meeting changed! We were not able to reserve the Janesville Library for next Thursday (or next Wednesday) so I reserved a meeting room at the Janesville Senior Center. We also wanted our attorney from Midwest Environmental Advocates to be present, and she cannot attend on a Thursday evening. Here’s the scoop:

Wednesday – January 26 – 6:30 – 8 pm
Janesville Senior Center
69 South Water Street

This is more “downtown” than the library, near the Court House. You can park behind their building, in the parking lot, and enter through the back door. We are meeting in the upstairs conference room. They are charging us $30 for an hour and a half, so please bring a couple bucks to help defray the cost. (We will look into other, free, alternatives to the library. I will check out local churches, which are usually free and more comfortable.)

Please bring two other people with you to the meeting. (Supporters, not those sitting on the fence.) If you can’t make the meeting, please recruit three other people to take your place!

Two: The EA is out!
Dr. Margaret Pulera alerted us Friday that the DNR has released an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Tuls project. We have until February 4th at 4:30 pm to comment on it! Go to the link below to review it. There is a press release, the 20-page EA, and 12 pages of attachments.

http://www.dnr.wi.gov/org/es/science/eis/eis.htm

Three: Attorney Assistance As mentioned above, Miriam Ostrov, an attorney with Midwest Environmental Advocates, a public interest law firm in Madison, will join us for the meeting. For those of you who are not already aware of this, Midwest Environmental Advocates has hired an expert to review the WPDES permit application. They can also help us:

write our own comments on the permit
help us find grants to support a water-monitoring program
assist with a PR campaign against the cow factory.

I also had a conversation Friday with Peter McKeever, an attorney with Ed Garvey’s firm in Madison. They assist community groups around the state on environmental issues and have worked on the Magnolia Township factory farm case. (Peter used to be the State Director for The Nature Conservancy.)

Peter stressed that the nutrient management plan for the dairy is a crucial issue to focus on. We need to find experts to assist us with issues like: the nature of soils on the Rock Prairie, characteristics of the groundwater table, and proximity to wetlands and other water. We should learn all we can about the potential impact on streams in the area. Here is a link Peter sent to a new report on “Management practices to mitigate hazardous animal emissions.”

http://dnr.wi.gov/air/agWasteBMPs.html

Four: Outside experts knocking on our door
Karen Hudson, a national leader in the fight against CAFOs, also contacted us Friday. Karen lives near Peoria, with two CAFOs in her backyard. (Not literally.) She leads a number of groups, including the Socially Responsible Agricultural Project and Illinois Citizens for Clean Air and Water. Her and her cohorts can connect us with other experts and they have money to travel – to come consult with us, speak at public events, etc. John Ikerd, the agricultural economist and factory farm expert from Missouri, is on their board of directors. We are going to be arranging a conference call with them.

We also have the women who came to our last meeting, fighting the factory farm in Galena, to consult with us.

Five: Leadership teams As you can see, we now have plenty of help, but we need to take the lead to win this battle for self-determination! It is up to each of us. We made a great start at our last meeting. Attached is the list of all those who signed up for the Steering Committee or one of the three teams. Please look this over and let me know if I missed anyone. Let me know if you were not at the last meeting and want to volunteer for one of these teams.

It is not too soon to get started. It would be best if one of you from each team can take the initiative and contact the others and arrange a time to meet, either in person or by phone. If not, you can choose a time to meet on Wednesday evening.

I’d like to suggest that the Steering Committee meet at 5:30 pm Wednesday at the Senior Center. If this is not possible, please let me know and we can make other arrangements.

Six: How about a name?
I’d also like to suggest we choose a name for our group. Please note I’m not suggesting we incorporate, write by-laws, elect officers, hire a lobbyist, etc. But I do think we need a name. If nothing else, it will make it easier to reserve a room for a meeting if we are an actual entity.

My suggestion is we call ourselves: Citizens for _____ ________ __________. You fill in the blanks. (It’s always best to say we’re for something rather than against.) How about if you email your ideas in and/or bring them to the meeting? We can have a quick election, and keep the name as long as we feel it still suits us.

Seven: Public Action
The last thing I want to mention is that I feel we need to take some public action in the near future. This could be any number of things – meetings with public agencies or public officials, a large public event where we explain our position and gain support, etc. The idea is to get public visibility, focus the issue, and energize people.

One thought is to ask John Ikerd to come speak in Janesville. He will be in Rockford on March 28, and I think in Peoria about the same time. We could also have Karen Hudson and/or others make a public presentation. Karen mentioned two books they have been involved in producing – Animal Factory and CAFO Reader – that we could utilize. (This event should be a fundraiser too.)

Of course, we need to take some action before March 28. We must spend some time strategizing about meetings with public officials. Why not meetings in the next three weeks with the DNR, County Board members/committees, the county conservationist, and the Rock County Health Department? The latter three are potential allies, and we will need allies. Remember, we can accomplish some things as individuals, but we will be much more powerful as a group.

With all this in mind, I will attach a suggested agenda for the next meeting, which the Steering Committee can refine.

One more thing: Please consider writing a letter to the editor, and ask your friends and neighbors to do the same. There is the Janesville Gazette, Beloit Daily News, and Clinton Topper, depending on where you live. There may be other small weekly papers I’m not aware of. It’s best to focus on one specific aspect of the broader issue: water, clean air, property values, public health, economic issues, etc. Pick the one you feel most strongly about.

Don’t do what I did and try to cover everything in one piece. I wrote a 1,200- word piece and asked the Gazette to publish it as a guest editorial. They wanted me to chop it down to 500 words. (No exceptions!) I took many attempts at editing it down, and did a lot of haggling with the editor. I pared it down to about 600 words and gave up. There didn’t seem to be much left of my original argument! I will attach the original piece in case you might like to read it.

Hope to see you on Wednesday.

Sincerely,

Tom Boswell

Two Events - Move To Amend

2011-01-20T15:46:00.002-06:00

You are invited to two events this Friday evening to mark the one-year anniversary of the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision. In the Citizens United case the Supreme Court decided that corporate spending on elections could not be limited under the First Amendment, because corporations are "persons" and money is their "speech".

So, please join us on Friday for the following two events co-hosted by South Central Wisconsin Move to Amend (www.scwmta.org) and Liberty Tree (www.libertytreefdr.org). First, come take a stand for democracy at the:

CITIZENS UNITED ANNIVERSARY RALLY
5:30 PM, Friday, January 21
On the Steps of Capitol Building (State Street Entrance)
Speakers: John Nichols, Trish O'Neill, Mindy Preston, Kaja Rebane, Ben Manski (MC)

Immediately following the rally, join us for a merry Irish-style wake for our good friend Democracy. We will celebrate her life, raise a glass to her accomplishments, and discuss ways to revive her:

WAKE FOR DEMOCRACY
6:00-10:00 PM, Friday, January 21
Brocach Irish Pub (Upstairs), 7 W. Main Street
Featuring: The Raging Grannies, Good Food and Drink, and Great Company!

If you are on Facebook, you can RSVP to these events here:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=133864826675933

Please feel free to forward this invitation to others who may be interested in attending either of these events. Thanks!

Kaja Rebane
Co-Chair, South Central WI Move to Amend

Mega-Dairy Meeting At Hedberg Library

2011-01-18T12:39:00.004-06:00

In case you may have missed the meeting last week, there is another this Thursday.

Where: Hedberg Library
316 S. Main St., Janesville, WI

When: Thursday, January 20, 2011
Beginning at 6:30 PM
The meeting will run for one hour.

The meeting will be hosted by Dwight S. Brass. Mr. Brass holds a degree in engineering as well as an MBA. His work has included two distinct areas, environmental engineering (Illinois EPA), and business (U of Wisconsin Stevens Point, Financial analyst). As a life-long "environmentalist", he has a strong interest in projects that have the potential to wreak havoc on the environment.

In addition, he is interested in our economy, that desperately needs jobs. A mega-dairy such as this 5,000 cow facility, is likely to be more "efficient", which means fewer jobs for a given amount of milk produced. Since we don't necessarily have a shortage of milk (we actually have a glut), this additional production capacity will force other dairies, likely smaller family farm operations, out of business. The Nebraskan indicated that he may buy the needed dairy cows in Wisconsin. This could be from family dairy farms forced out of business.

MLK Commemoration AT BTC

2011-01-06T21:46:00.001-06:00

Friends,
Please share this information with others. The Martin Luther King Commemoration event is this Saturday, January 8, 2011, 3pm – 5pm, at Blackhawk Tech, on Martin Luther King Rd, between Beloit and Janesville.

Thanks very much.
Rob

GSAFE Presents Screening And Discussion On Bullies

2010-12-10T16:49:00.001-06:00

GSAFE presents public screening of Bullied: A Student, a School, and a Case That Made History

Milton Public Library on Wednesday, December 15 at 6:00 p.m. Admission is free.

The library is located at 430 East High Street. For directions/more information, call 608-661-4141 or email brianj@gsaforsafeschools.org.

Volunteers are needed to bring treats/refreshments and the “talkback” portion of the event, email or call Brian J.

"BULLIED" TAKES AIM AT ANTI-GAY BULLYING AND HATE RELATED VIOLENCE

Free Documentary Screening to Spark Conversation about Bullying-Related Suicide and Hate Crimes.

MILTON, Wisconsin – (December 7, 2010) Bullied: A Student, a School, and a Case That Made History, a documentary film that chronicles one Wisconsin student’s ordeal at the hands of anti-gay bullies, will be screened at the Milton Public Library at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 15, 2010. This free public screening, which will be followed by discussion and a brief presentation, is part of a state-wide effort by the Gay Straight Alliance for Safe Schools (GSAFE) to raise awareness about the broad impact of anti-gay bullying and hate-motivated violence.

“With the rash of gay teen suicides this fall and the recent reports of hate-motivated violence, it’s critically important to have an honest discussion about bullying in our schools,” said Brian Juchems, Program Director for GSAFE. “Bullied provides a perfect opportunity for the community to engage in a serious conversation about what’s happening in our schools and communities and how we can make it better for all students.”

Bullied, released this fall by Teaching Tolerance, a project of the Southern Poverty Law Center, chronicles the story of Jamie Nabozny. Nabozny, a student from Ashland, WI, became the target of anti-gay bullying starting in middle school. The bullying grew worse as he reached high school, culminating in a physical attack by classmates which sent Nabozny to the hospital and caused him to drop out of school. He eventually sued his district for failure to protect him on the basis of the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.

"The main thing that I want people to know is that it does get better. However it doesn't get better unless people make it better. This is a chance for us to do that," said Robert Alexander, Milton 2009 graduate and chair of South Central Fair Wisconsin Action Network.

Former president of the Milton High School Gay-Straight Alliance, Alexander noted that he would regularly hear anti-gay slurs throughout the school day. While some staff and teachers would tell students to stop it, this didn't always happen. "My hope is that all district staff, as well as community leaders, walk away from this event motivated to take steps to stop the use of slurs."

Anti-gay bullying doesn't just impact gay and lesbian students. Research done by the National Education Association, which has endorsed Bullied, shows that four out of five students who are the targets of anti-gay bullying are actually straight. "Anti-gay bullying isn't just a gay issue. It impacts all students in our schools and communities." said Juchems.

A 2009 Wisconsin School Climate survey found that the majority of WI youth experience verbal harassment due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. The same survey, conducted by GSAFE, found that nearly three-fourths of Wisconsin youth hear comments like "that's so gay" frequently or often. A quarter of Wisconsin gay youth have been physically harassed because of their sexual orientation.

"It's not a question of if anti-gay harassment is happening in our schools. It's a matter of where and when." said Juchems. "When we let verbal bullying go unchecked, we give tacit permission for the bullying to escalate to something physical. The less we talk about it, the worse it gets. I'm pleased that Milton and surrounding communities are interested in having this conversation."

This public screening of Bullied: A Student, a School, and a Case That Made History takes place at the Milton Public Library on Wednesday, December 15 at 6:00 p.m. Admission is free. The library is located at 430 East High Street. For directions/more information, call 608-661-4141 or email brianj@gsaforsafeschools.org

Rock The Pantry

2010-12-10T16:44:00.002-06:00

Scott Walker’s inauguration is fast approaching and he’s using the occasion to rake in campaign cash. On January 3rd he will be sworn into office, and unlike Democratic Governor Doyle, who donated his inaugural proceeds to charity, all the money raised at Walker's inaugural events will go to the Republican Party or Walker's campaign account.

So rather than filling Walker's campaign coffers, come to One Wisconsin Now's alternative inaugural event January 3rd and together you and I can help families in need and “Rock the Pantry!”

All of the proceeds from tickets sold for “Rock the Pantry” will go directly to charity. Come celebrate with live music, a live DJ and terrific speakers as we “Rock the Pantry” at our OWN inauguration.

Tickets are $10 a piece and can be purchased at:
One Wisconsin

Democratic Governor Jim Doyle used proceeds from his inaugural events to donate over $500,000 to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Wisconsin. Scott Walker is giving all his proceeds to the GOP. We need do our part to help needy Wisconsinites Walker is leaving out in the cold. All proceeds from tickets sold to “Rock the Pantry" will go directly to charities assisting those hit hardest by the economic collapse. Let’s show Scott Walker what it means to help those in need!

“Rock the Pantry” will be held at the Majestic Theater on King Street in Madison from 7-10p.m. The event will include progressive speakers, DJ Andrew Larson from Saturn’s 8 and live music. A full entertainment line-up will be announced later this month so mark your calendars and keep your ear to the wall.

Demand is high so order your tickets in advance to make at: One Wisconsin.

Tickets bought online are available for $10 each, or $5 dollars for students or for those with limited income.

It’s time to demonstrate that we haven’t all become scrooges like Scott Walker and still have the generous spirit of the season. I hope to see you there!

Happy Holidays,
Scot

P.S.: Scott Walker already cost us 13,000 jobs and high speed rail. Send him a message and help the needy all at the same time by buying a ticket for “Rock the Pantry.” Wanna make Walker even more crazy? Buy five tickets.

Rock County Progressives December Meeting

2010-12-03T13:41:00.003-06:00

In light of the recent elections, it's even more clear that progressives need to do a better job of informing and educating the public about the critical issues facing us...

What's next for progressives in Rock County? Push for campaign finance reform? Other issues?

Should we have a film series? Speakers?

Our next meeting is on Wednesday, December 8, 6:30 PM-8 PM, Milton Public Library

430 East High Street; #100
Milton, Wisconsin

After entering the building, turn left then right, the room is at the end of the hall.

Hope to see everyone there,

Contact: rockcountyprogressives@gmail.com

GrannyD Goes To Washington

2010-11-05T23:16:00.000-05:00

Rock County Progressives present:

Short Inspirational Film: GrannyD Goes to Washington

“We have a duty to look after each other. If we lose control of our government, then we lose our ability to disperse justice and human kindness. Our first priority today, then, is to defeat utterly those forces of greed and corruption that have come between us and our self-governance.”
-- Doris “Granny D.” Haddock

Passionate about democracy, she walked 3,200 miles from California to Washington, D.C. to dramatize the need to restore representative government in America and reduce the role of special interest money in politics.

Followed by Discussion

Wednesday, November 10
6:15 PM-7:45 PM (Film at 6:30 PM-7 PM)

Basics food cooperative
1711 Lodge Dr Janesville, Wisconsin

rockcountyprogressives@gmail.com

Meeting - Rock County Progressives

2010-10-28T15:17:00.001-05:00

Who bought the elections? Nobody knows!

Campaign Finance Reform after “Citizens United.”

Short inspirational film: Granny D. Goes to Washington.

Followed by Discussion & short meeting of the Rock County Progressives

Wednesday, November 9
6:15 PM-7:45 PM (Film at 6:30 PM-7 PM)

Basics food cooperative
Janesville, Wisconsin

Help Call Out The Vote!

2010-10-17T20:40:00.002-05:00

Our friend, Cenk Uygur of The Young Turks, just posted on Daily Kos about his interview with Rep. Alan Grayson on Friday -- where they discussed our call program for progressive candidates.

You can call from home and the call system weeds out answering machines so you're not wasting your time. It's AWESOME.

This is the time to stand up for people who stood up for us. There aren't a lot of strong progressives in Congress, but we have to make sure we protect the ones we have. They're getting bombarded by corporate attack ads -- we have to fight back with our strength in numbers. It's time to ride! SIGN UP HERE!

Volunteer for Russ Feingold in Janesville!

2010-10-16T00:55:00.002-05:00

Russ Feingold is trailing in the polls to a Tea Party Republican who actually thinks climate change is caused by sunspots. There's no better, more principled Democrat in Washington than Sen. Feingold. He has fought against corporate influence in politics but he is now under attack by those very corporate interests. Because keeping Sen. Feingold's voice in the Senate is so important, this race has become our top national priority.

Click here or sign up at:

321 E. Milwaukee St.
Janesville, WI 53545

Wisconsin' s Enviro Hangs In The Balance

2010-10-15T00:14:00.003-05:00

Four Lakes Sierrans,

THIS IS A CALL FOR ALL HANDS ON DECK.

(If you don't need background or convincing, just go to WHAT YOU CAN DO
below.)

If you care about Wisconsin's environment, your health and that of other citizens of Wisconsin, and whether your children and grand children will have a healthy planet and sustainable future, then your assistance is needed NOW. The next three weeks until the election cannot be business as usual.

Big money interests (often out-of-state) have co-opt the airwaves to convince you that solid candidates who support environmental protections and the health of our citizens are the enemy, and bad for the economy. These same corporate interests stopped a bill that would have provided Wisconsin with a strong clean energy future, kept more money in Wisconsin's economy, and created more good jobs here.

It was the same interests that stopped Wisconsin from creating statewide regional transit authorities and allowing local communities to work together to create good transit options and reduce pollution and the overall costs of transportation. These same interests are now distorting the truth about high-speed rail in Wisconsin and regional transit in Dane County.

These same interests also support corporate animal feeding operations (CAFOs) that threaten our clean drinking water and the future of agriculture in Wisconsin. Don't we already have enough mercury in our waters that our fish aren't safe to eat, and we've had to enact phosphorus bans to protect our lakes for people to swim in and aquatic life to survive? Isn't our groundwater, as well as lakes and streams, polluted enough from other sources?

The effects of climate change are already being felt with melting polar ice caps, record temperatures, and dramatic floods, and climate scientists are telling us we have perhaps a decade to start implementing real change. That means we must elect legislators who get it, who will look out for citizens and the health of our planet and environment NOW.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

The next three weeks cannot be business as usual. We need your support to elect candidates who will make a difference and uphold the same values you joined the Sierra Club to support. An indication of how critical this is, is that the Sierra Club has sent a national staff person here to support this work, and that so many of our leaders are volunteering considerable time to assist this effort. You also will shortly be receiving a scorecard of the candidates we are endorsing in national and state races. Information is also available on line at
http://wisconsin.sierraclub.org/political/Endorsements.htm and on Facebook
at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sierra-Club-Wisconsin/102052479832488?ref=ts .

Now we need you. You can:

1. Contact Rachel Ackoff at Rachel.Ackoff@Sierraclub.org or our John Muir office in Madison at 608-256-0565 to volunteer your services or ask how you can help with national and statewide races. We're doing phone banking and will be doing canvassing and literature drops. (There just might be some free pizza in it as well!)
2. Contact Dave Blouin at burroak15@charter.net, or Don Ferber at d_ferber@sbcglobal.net to ask about local and regional candidates who need support.
3. Spread the word on Facebook and Twitter, in addition to talking to family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and anyone else you know.
4. Contact you candidates' election offices to find out what support they need.
5. Write letters to the editor in support of our candidates.
6. VOTE EARLY, OR MAKE SURE YOU AND ALL OTHER SUPPORTERS VOTE ON
NOVEMBER 2! Remember, our power is our grass roots - YOU!

Thank you for your support of the Sierra Club and of candidates who will help ensure a safe and healthy future for Wisconsin's environment and citizens.

To adjust your Sierra Club email preferences, please reply to this email with a description of your wishes. Thank you.
Sierra Club 85 Second St., 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105

Reminder: Rock County Progressives

2010-10-04T00:31:00.003-05:00

The next meeting of the Rock County Progressives will be on Wednesday, October 6, 6:30 at the home of Ron and Marti, 10651 N Charley Bluff Rd in Milton Twp. Turn North off County Road N at Snuffy Still, not far from where it intersects with 59. It's on the left not long after you turn on Charley Bluff.

Unlike past meetings, we will be gathering in the classroom in the basement. Please enter the office door on the north side of the building.
The Rock County Progressives meet on the first Wednesday of each month.

Chuck

For more information -- rockcountyprogressives@gmail.com

Huge Jobs Rally In Janesville

2010-09-03T12:35:00.002-05:00

JANESVILLE — Both working citizens and the unemployed are being encouraged to attend a “Jobs Now!” rally on Sunday, September 5th at 5 p.m.

Held at the Laborfest Grounds in Janesville, the event will feature guest speakers including U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, the Democrats’ leading gubernatorial candidate.

The event is sponsored by the Machinists Union, the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO, the United Auto Workers Local 95 and the Rock County Labor Council.

In addition to the event in Janesville on Sunday, rallies will be held nationwide leading up to the Oct. 2 national rally in Washington, D.C.

Rock County Progressives - Meeting

2010-08-26T23:30:00.001-05:00

The Rock County Progressives meet next on Wednesday, September 1, 6:30.

The meeting will be at the home of Ron and Marti, at in Milton Township at 10651 N Charley Bluff Rd, Milton. Turn North off County Road N at Snuffy Still, not far from where it intersects with 59. It's on the left not long after you turn on Charley Bluff. If you have any difficulty, call me at 608-322-2889

Hope to see you there,

Chuck

Netroots Wisconsin 2010 Conference

2010-08-13T21:24:00.002-05:00

Netroots Wisconsin 2010 is the first Wisconsin regional conference of Netroots Nation. Netroots Wisconsin will be held September 25, 2010 at the Madison Senior Center, 330 W. Mifflin St., Madison, WI.

Netroots Wisconsin is the second of the regional conferences to be held in the US, and the 2010 conference is the first conference in Wisconsin. The conference will provide Wisconsin activists and netroots an opportunity to share ideas, interact with Wisconsin progressive politicians, and to participate in training sessions to learn how to be more effective at their work. Sessions will be Wisconsin-focused to promote the Wisconsin tradition of progressivism.

As The New York Times reported, Netroots Nation is "becoming as much a part of the Democratic political circuit as the Iowa State Fair." Netroots Wisconsin intends to do the same in Wisconsin by promoting the Wisconsin tradition of progressive politics in a new forum.

The conference is open to the public and to media coverage. Information, registration, and press opportunities are available at Netroots Wisconsin.

Contact: Steve Hanson shanson@netrootswisconsin.org 715-598-9206

EcoFair 360 In Elkhorn

2010-07-16T10:47:00.001-05:00

Yes, it is mid-summer already! It's also a great time for getting outdoors and thinking green - or perhaps blue. We were definitely being green this last weekend at La Fete de Marquette where our volunteers did a great job of reducing waste by selling reusable mugs and pitchers to cut down on plastic waste. Thanks to all who helped, and we look forward to expanding upon this in the future.

The new Ecofair360 will be held this weekend in Elkhorn, WI and the Sierra Club will have a booth there to educate people and get signatures to move off oil and coal and towards clean energy solutions. This event features a multitude of exhibits and talks to learn more about various ways to be sustainable.

If you tend to think more about water in summer, the Yahara Lakes Partnership is asking for your input on our lakes and waterways system and it's a great opportunity to let them know your thoughts or to get involved. As we're learned in the Gulf, if we don't protect our precious waters, they can suffer great harm.

But the way to really celebrate summer will be at our annual Summer Soiree at (but not limited to) Lake Farm/Centennial Park on Lake Waubesa on August 1. We'll have a number of fun events to participate in, topped off by a grilled lunch in the Park. Please mark this on your calendar and join us that day.

Friday - Sunday, July 16 - 18
Walworth County Fairgrounds, Elkhorn, WI

Please join us at our booth at this new Ecofair in southeast Wisconsin. It's a great place to learn about really being green with energy, transportation, food, or other issues. The Sierra Club will have a booth there, so please stop by. If you'd care to volunteer (and get in free!), please contact Don Ferber at d_ferber@sbcglobal.net or 608-222-9376 or 608-217-2959 to sign up for a shift.

Shifts are:
9 - 12:30
12:30 - 4
4 - 7 (Friday and Saturday only)

More info on the fair is available here.

Campaign Finance Reform Presentation

2010-07-15T21:44:00.004-05:00

The Rock County Progressives present:
BP, Goldman Sachs, Massey:… Corporations Putting Profit Before People
Making democracy work for people after “Citizens United.”

Presentation on Campaign Finance Reform by Mike McCabe, Wisconsin Democracy Campaign, wisdc.org

Wed, July 28, 6pm-7:30, Basics Co-Op, 1711 Lodge Dr, Janesville

Contact -- rockcountyprogressives@gmail.com

Rock River Clean-up Effort

2010-07-01T11:58:00.002-05:00

“Janesville Pride” has been a long standing motto here in River City. Those sentiments are still here and we all feel it-we all believe it. We would like to introduce an effort where our Janesville Pride can proudly be displayed again! Join us on July 31, 2010 as we show our pride by participating in the Rock River Sweep program where we all pitch in and clean-up areas along the Rock River. This participation will only ask for 3 hours of effort between 8:30 and 11:30 AM on Saturday, July 31.

Our local effort is called “Rock’n’Janesville” and we propose to clean-up both sides of the Rock River, from the south end of Janesville to the north end, and then also extending to Indianford. Local sponsors include Stateline Recycling, Harborfest Aquatics, The Tool House, Inc., and the City of Janesville. Additionally, our local effort is also supported by American Rivers and the Rock River Sweep organizations.

As co-directors, Dave Peterson and Dave Wirth will be heading this important annual project. The primary goal for 2010 is to raise the awareness of why cleaning up the Rock River is of paramount importance. We believe that since the Rock River was the natural focal point of a young Janesville it should come back full-circle and become the focal point again for the years to come. An attractive and beautiful river and riverfront can only enhance prospects of bringing people and business to our city.

To this end, we are initiating this clean-up effort this year by asking that service groups take ownership of a section of the river to clean-up. The requested area of the river can be large or small but it can become yours to clean. That’s the Janesville Pride we referred to earlier. Also, for individual civic leaders who want to help we will assemble a pool of people who can be assigned to assist volunteer service groups. As a service to you we would also be happy to present to your group a 10 minute show with images and information concerning this Rock’n’Janesville Project.

If you are interested and would like more information please join us, Dave Peterson and Dave Wirth, representing the Rock’n’Janesville Group for the July 31, 2010 Rock River Sweep Program, at 7 PM on July 6, 2010 at M&I Bank at 100 North Main Street. (Use the Parker Drive entrance to the bank.) In the meantime, please contact us at 608-290-8809 or 608-774-0141 for more information.

You can also find us on Facebook

Thank you for considering being involved in this important activity for the Janesville and Rock River area! Rock’n’Janesville has Janesville Pride!

Memorial Service For The Gulf

2010-06-15T19:45:00.002-05:00

The Rock County Progressives present:

Memorial Service for the Gulf

11 workers dead. Wildlife devastated. Ecosystem destroyed? A way of life lost…

Join us as we mourn and celebrate the rich cultural and natural heritage.

Neil Dupree, retired pastor, First Christian Church, Janesville

Come prepared to share your recollections, reflections and feelings about this disaster.

Wednesday, July 7, Riverside Park, North Pavilion

2200 Parkside Dr, Janesville

6pm potluck PICNIC * 7pm Memorial Service

N Washington St (Rte 14), right at Golf Course Rd (park entrance), right at Edge Hill Drive, left at Riverside Park Rd, follow river north to end of park.

* * *

BP, Goldman Sachs, Massey… Corporations Putting Profit Before People

Making democracy work for people after “Citizens United.”

Presentation on Campaign Finance Reform by

Mike McCabe, Wisconsin Democracy Campaign, wisdc.org

Wed, July 28, 6pm-7:30, Basics Co-Op, 1711 Lodge Dr, Janesville
rockcountyprogressives@gmail.com

3rd Annual YWCA 5K Pancake Run and Fitness Walk.

2010-06-14T12:25:00.002-05:00

Plaese join us on June 19th for a great run or walk through a beautiful Janesville neighborhood. Bring the family and let the kids do the 1/2 mile Fun Run and receive a medal!

Event information is available here.

View course map here.

Buy Local Event

2010-05-12T01:10:00.003-05:00

EXPIRED BULLETIN

Event: May 15, 10AM-3PM, Daniels Sentry East and West, Janesville

BUYING LOCAL: SUPPORTING JOBS, BUILDING OUR ECONOMY

It’s never been easier – here’s how.

The demand for local food is greater than it’s ever been, and it’s not just a “feel good” issue: there are solid economic impacts from supporting our local food producers. According to the federal government, Rock County spends $225 million each year on groceries. Imagine the impact if we met the state's goal of spending 10% of that on Wisconsin food products.

Seventy cents of every dollar spent locally stays local; compare that with only .40 cents of every $1.00 spent on non-local products staying in a community. Just by buying local foods, Rock County grocery shoppers would keep almost $7 million in the state's economy that would otherwise disappear. If every county followed Rock's lead, nearly $240 million would remain to circulate in Wisconsin’s economy.

To tap into this strong market potential and increase the local sales of local products to boost our overall regional economy, Thrive has partnered with the Wisconsin Grocers’ Association, the Wisconsin Department of Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and the UW Agriculture Innovation Center (AIC) on the WGA’s Grocers Buy Local project. This innovative project connects producers, distributors and grocers under the state’s Something Special from WisconsinTM brand, making it easy for consumers to find and support local products.

Working with four stores around the region to promote these local products in day-long sampling events, Thrive and partners are introducing customers to the great taste and wide range of local foods, with the goal of increasing everyone’s bottom line, from producer to grocer. This Saturday May 15 from 10am-3pm we’re working with both Daniels Sentry stores in Janesville—two of our four pilot stores—for two simultaneous day-long sampling events.

“Our farm has been in the family since 1844, when Whilden Hughes first came to Janesville from Michigan,” said Willie (Whilden) Hughes VI. “Committing to support local business the way Daniels Sentry has gives the local economy the strength and diversity it needs to thrive.” Today, the Hughes’ farm has over 1,000 acres, which include production of the successful Blue Farm chips, which will be sampled at the event.

Featured vendors sampling their products include:
•
Berres Brothers Coffee
•
Blue Farm Chips
•
Emils Pizza
•
Koops Mustard
•
Klement’s (Westside store only)
•
Bucky Badger (L&L Foods)
•
Louie's Specialty Foods
•
Mac Farlane Pheasant (demo at Janesville East only)
•
Racine Danish Kringles
•
Schoep's ice cream
•
Shullsburg Creamery cheeses
•
Stump's Olives

Just these companies alone employ an estimated 950 full and part-time employees.
Also on hand to promote the event is this year’s Alice in Dairyland, Cheryl O’Brien. Cheryl will be at the east side store (2822 East Milwaukee Street) at 9am and the Westside store (2501 West Court Street) at 10:30am. Cheryl will be available for interviews at or prior to the event, as will Greg Lawless, Director of Agriculture Initiatives for Thrive and staffer for the Agriculture Innovation Center.
###

Contact: Jennifer Smith, Communications, Thrive [608-443-1961 or jsmith@thrivehere.org]

Progressive's TownHall - Rock County

2010-04-24T17:24:00.003-05:00

EXPIRED BULLETIN

Rock County Progressives & MoveOn present…

Town Hall on what can be done to stop corporate takeovers in Washington DC

Wednesday, May 5 6:30 PM-8:00 PM at Hedberg Public Library, 316 S. Main St. Janesville

Register for the event at the MoveOn website (seating will be limited).

Outraged by the recent Supreme Court decision unleashing a torrent of corporate funds in elections, corporate bailouts, rising foreclosures and other issues… we will be gathering to talk about what can be done to stop corporate takeovers in Washington DC.

A few relevant facts…

* The six biggest banks now control over 63% of Gross domestic product

* The financial sector spends more than $1 million per day lobbying Congress and fighting financial reform.

* ExxonMobil reported a record $45.2 billion profit & paid NO federal income tax in 2009.

We hope you’ll join us!

RockCountyProgressives@gmail.com

Legislative Alert! - Working Lands Initiative

2010-04-13T17:58:00.001-05:00

Protect Wisconsin’s popular Working Lands Initiative

Please contact your legislators now: Ask them to resist last-minute efforts to weaken farmland protection.

Local interest is high in new tools like purchase of agricultural conservation easements and agricultural enterprise areas. But the Wisconsin Realtors Association is behind bills (SB-576 and AB 863) that would weaken these tools by repealing or delaying the conversion fee on lands removed from farmland preservation zoning districts. A last-minute vote on this bill may be sought in the remaining days of this legislative session.

It’s important that we act now. Please tell your legislators to “Stand Tall for Farmland Preservation” and resist this effort to weaken Wisconsin’s Working Lands Initiative. Contact information for legislators is below. Here are some talking points:

The conversion fee is an important part of the Working Lands Initiative. It supports many aspects of the program, including:
· Agricultural Enterprise Areas
· Grants to counties to update farmland plans
· Agricultural conservation easements

Facts about the conversion fee:
· The conversion fee increases the value of land for agriculture by reducing potential land use conflicts and providing security for farmers looking to locate or expand their farm operations. The cost of the conversion fee will most likely be passed on to the person developing the land or buying a house in prime farmland. Isn’t this appropriate?
· The fee applies only to land rezoned out of farmland preservation zoning districts.
· Farmers with existing farmland preservation agreements are not subject to the conversion fee for removing land from the agreement.
· The conversion fee is not new. It has always been a part of Wisconsin’s farmland preservation programs.
Here’s what authentic rural voices are saying about this issue:
Farmer and Working Lands Steering Committee Chair Dan Poulson explains importance of conversion fee.
Farmer Bob Uphoff comments on conversion fee.
Contact your legislators and tell them to “Stand Tall for Farmland Preservation.”
Call your State Senator and Assembly representative on the legislative hotline at 1-800-362-9472. If you need help finding your legislator, go to:
http://www.legis.wisconsin.gov/w3asp/waml/waml.aspx.

Remember: Personal contacts are best.
For more information, contact:
Bill Berry
American Farmland Trust’s Campaign for Wisconsin’s Farm and Forest Lands
1973 Strongs Ave.
Stevens Point WI 54481
715 341 9119
715 321 0589 (cell)
billlnick@charter.net

Bob Wagner
Senior Director Farmland Protection Programs
American Farmland Trust
413-586-9330 Ext. 12
bwagner@farmland.org

Medical Marijuana Rallies In Wisconsin

2010-03-26T11:42:00.002-05:00

Medical Marijuana rallies in a dozen Wisconsin locations Saturday March 27 -- More on tap next week.

MADISON: This Saturday, March 27, will mark a historic high in Wisconsin medical cannabis activism as state activists roll out rallies across the state in support of AB554/SB368, the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act. The Act, down to its last 27 days as of this writing, still needs to pas two committees and both houses to reach Gov. Jim Doyle’s desk. Gov. Doyle has been on record his entire 8 year term as being willing to sign a bill if it reaches his desk. His term ends January 2010.

In a show of solidarity with medical marijuana patients across the Midwest and to continue raising awareness of the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act in Wisconsin, members of the Facebook group Wisconsin Residents for Assembly Bill 554 and medical marijuana supporters will be conducting peaceful demonstrations across the state in unison this Saturday the 27th of March.

Confirmed cities included (as of this writing) - Eau Claire, Green Bay, Oshkosh, Appleton, Wisconsin Rapids, Platteville, Berlin, Dodgeville, La Crosse, Fond du Lac (Johnson St. @ Forest Mall), Kenosha, Milwaukee, and Madison/West Towne.

Other cities in planning stages and probably participating (as of this release) - Muskego, Waterton, Jefferson, Burlington, Racine, Fox Valley and Wisconsin Dells. A full list may be found at: Wisconsin Residents for Assembly Bill 554

Events will start at 12 noon Saturday March, 27th at the local Wal-Mart stores and each city is reportedly developing a strategy that best fits their individual locations.

The reason for gathering at Wal-Mart? A Michigan Wal-Mart employee injured on the job was fired after testing positive for marijuana use, even though he was legally allowed to use the drug medically in Michigan. According to reports, Joseph Casais, 29, used marijuana to ease the pain caused by sinus cancer and an inoperable brain tumor. The drug was prescribed by his doctor.

State activists are also seeking donations to air a television ad featuring state medical cannabis patients urging supporters to contact their state legislators. To donate, visit http://www.facebook.com/l/3e7c1;JRMMA.org, http://www.facebook.com/l/3e7c1;IMMLY.org, Wisconsin NORML, or http://www.facebook.com/l/3e7c1;MadisonNORML.org.

JRMMA tv ad

The month of March goes out like a lion with a Medical Cannabis Forum at UW-Whitewater including the Traveling Hemp and Cannabis Tour exhibits. The event features myself speaking ion favor of the JRMMA and Dr. David Nordstrom - Professor of Counselor Education at UW-Whitewater against, followed by Questions from the audience. It runs from 5:30-6:30pm in the Old Main Ballroom (UC-275) on campus.

The next day in Lodi, Thursday April 1, north of Madison in Columbia County, activists will stage a Traveling Hemp and Cannabis Show at the Lodi Woman's Club Public Library. The Library is at 130 Lodi Street in downtown Lodi. Speakers will include WI NORML Field Director Jay Selthofner, Lodi area resident and Iraq War vet and former Marine Sgt. Erin Silbaugh, myself and other patients and advocates.

From the Lodi T.H.C. Tour release:

There is no April Fools Joke and medical marijuana is sure no laughing matter. Thursday April 1st (5:00 – 7:00PM) NORML and IMMLY bring the T.H.C. Tour or "Talking Hemp and Cannabis Tour" to Lodi, as various supporters of hemp, marijuana and medical cannabis activists travel to the central location within the districts of Senator Scott Fitzgerald (Rep); Senator Dale Schultz (Rep) and Representatives Keith Ripp (Rep), Representative Ed Brooks (Rep), Representative Joel Kleefisch (Rep) and Representative Jeff Fitzgerald (Rep) for a weekend of events (check your local listings). The focus of this event, taking place in the Lodi Public Library's meeting room, is to teach the community about the past, present and future of hemp and cannabis in Wisconsin.

Saturday April 3, the scene shifts to Milwaukee's East Side, to the Miramar Theatre for a benefitt for Wisconsin NORML and IMMLY. The Miramar Theatre is at 2844 N. Oakland Ave. Milwaukee. The event will feature live music from three of Wisconsin's premier bands Weapons of Mass DeFunktion, SLM and Recalcitrant. Doors open at 6:30 pm and the show runs until 1am the following morning. There will also be speakers including Jacki Rickert, myself, Teresa Shepherd, Jay Selthofner, Dan K. Schroeder and others, as well as door prizes, info on IMMLY, WI NORML and the JRMMA, and NORML merchandise.

Read original article with photos and links: (http://www.facebook.com/l/3e7c1;www.examiner.com/examiner/x-30194-Madison-NORML-Examiner~y2010m3d25-Medical-Marijuana-rallies-in-over-20-Wisconsin-locations-Saturday-March-27--More-on-tap-next-week )

Movie Party In Milton - Capitalism: A Love Story

2010-03-25T11:42:00.004-05:00

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Here is a great way for local progressives to meet up and chat over today's current events.

Capitalism: A Love Story' Movie Party
10651 N Charley Bluff Rd
Milton, WI 53563
Sunday, 28 Mar 2010, 1:00 PM

Through MoveOn :
RSVP Contact Information

View Larger Map

Assault On Working Lands Initiative

2010-03-08T12:39:00.004-06:00

Forwarded from Rock Environmental Network

Legislative Alert!

We need your help: Please act now. The Working Lands Initiative we worked to pass is under assault.

Contact your legislators and tell them to "Stand Tall for Farmland Preservation" and say no to SB-576.

The Wisconsin Realtors Association is leading efforts to repeal or delay the conversion fee on lands removed from farmland preservation zoning districts.

A bill (SB-576) to do this has been introduced in the Senate and Assembly. Realtors are flooding capitol offices with calls supporting the bill.

Your legislators need to hear the truth from you. Contact information is below. Here are some talking points:

The conversion fee is an important part of the popular Working Lands Initiative. It supports many aspects of the program, including:

. Agricultural Enterprise Areas

. Grants to counties to update farmland plans

. Agricultural conservation easements

Facts about the conversion fee:

. The conversion fee increases the value of land for agriculture by reducing potential land use conflicts and providing security for farmers looking to locate or expand their farm operations. The cost of the conversion fee will most likely be passed on to the person developing the land or buying a house in prime farmland. Isn't this appropriate?

. The fee applies only to land rezoned out of farmland preservation
zoning districts.

. Farmers with existing farmland preservation agreements are not
subject to the conversion fee for removing land from the agreement.

Contact your legislators and tell them to "Stand Tall for Farmland
Preservation" and say no to SB-576.

Call your State Senator and Assembly representative on the legislative
hotline at 1-800-362-9472. If you need help finding your legislator, go to:

Find your legislator. You can also email your legislator. See the list at the bottom of this message. Remember: Personal contacts are best.

Thank you!

For more information, contact:

Bill Berry
Bob Wagner

American Farmland Trust's
Senior Policy and Program Advisor

Campaign for Wisconsin's Farm and Forest Lands

1973 Strongs Ave.
American Farmland Trust

Stevens Point WI 54481
413-586-9330 Ext. 12

715 341 9119
bwagner@farmland.org

715 321 0589 (cell)

billlnick@charter.net

Health Care Conference In Milwaukee

2010-02-24T14:24:00.004-06:00

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What is the status of health care reform legislation? What is the potential impact? Does it go far enough?

Discuss those issues and more, at a
Community Brainstorming Conference

Saturday, February 27, 8:00-11:00am

Saint Matthews C.M.E. Church, Milwaukee
2944 North 9th Street (Parking on 8th Street, off Chambers)

Scheduled panelists:
Senator Russ Feingold, US Senator-Wisconsin
Where are we now? Where are we going?

Dr. Robert Kraig, Executive Director - Citizen Action of Wisconsin
Critical aspects of health care reform

Mr. Reginald Birt, Regional Cycle Director - Milwaukee Health Services, Inc
And what about the poor among us?

Mr. Terrell Martin, Community Organizer - Organizing for America
What makes good sense in health care law?

Milton Book Discussion Starting

2010-02-23T22:24:00.001-06:00

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The public is invited to take part in a six-week reading and discussion course starting at 6:30 pm on Monday, March 8th at the Milton Public Library. (NatuRescue of Milton hosts the course.) Participants at each 90-minute session will discuss articles compiled by the Northwest Earth Institute into 6 chapters of the workbook “Reconnecting with Earth.” For more information on the readings, please visit www.nwei.org.

To sign up for the discussion course, contact Jim (608)575-5653 or Lynn (608)758-5748

BERLIN -- Medical Marijuana Expo

2010-01-29T14:59:00.002-06:00

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BERLIN: On Saturday, February 6, 2010, as the community rallies together in momentum for National Medical Marijuana Awareness Week, the Berlin Wisconsin Public Library will house supporters of hemp and medical marijuana as various organizations come together to put on an expo style event showcasing the cannabis plant, The T.H.C. Expo (Talking Hemp & Cannabis) will run from 12:00pm-3:00pm in the Berlin Public Library, located at 121 W. Park Ave., Berlin.

This region was once a leader in Wisconsin hemp cultivation. Today, the federal hemp plants growing along roadways or on old farmsteads are the only remnants of an era when farmers benefited greatly from hemp cultivation. Berlin's THC Expo will not only examine the history and potential future role of hemp in the local and state economy, but also delve deeply into the medical use of cannabis and current legislation before the Wisconsin Legislature regarding both medical cannabis and hemp.

Organizer Jay Selthofner promises the T.H.C. EXPO, will "openly and honestly discuss this misunderstood plant". In a recent interview, Selthofner told Madison NORML Examiner, "The driving force behind the expo is the community who supports hemp and medical marijuana, and the cost to bring this event together was donated by the people of the district."

Berlin is in the state legislative districts represented by State Sen. Luther Olsen (R-Ripon) and State Assembly Rep. Joan Ballweg (R- Markesan). As of this writing, neither lawmaker has yet taken a formal position on the bill, despite what local activists call "a ton of constituent letters, phone calls, emails, Capitol office visits, and in the case of Sen. Olsen, not one but two public listening sessions".

The Expo will also include representatives of organizations including Is My Medicine Legal Yet? (IMMLY), Wisconsin NORML, Madison NORML, Americans for Safe Access (ASA), MJ2 Media, American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin (WI-ACLU), Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP) and Wisconsin Veterans for Medical Marijuana Access (WIVMMA).

IMMLY Founder Jacki Rickert, namesake of the Wisconsin medical cannabis bill is expected to be in attendance along with state and regional activists including Gary Storck, Ben Masel, Teresa Shepherd, LEAP's James Gierach and others.

For more info: List of qualifying medical conditions included in the JRMMA. Jacki Rickert MMJ Act Hearing Recap & Action Alert. Report on Jan. 20 Mary Powers Memorial and JRMMA Lobby Day. For additional details on the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, info on the Dec. 15, 2010 combined Health committee hearing, bill text and status, how to donate, all the latest news and how you can help, visit http://www.facebook.com/l/03d42;JRMMA.org, http://www.facebook.com/l/03d42;IMMLY.org or http://www.facebook.com/l/03d42;MadisonNORML.org. Visit my Madison NORML Examiner articles archive. Photos courtesy IMMLY/WI NORML and friends except where otherwise noted. Photo of Berlin Library courtesy Berlin Library http://www.facebook.com/l/03d42;www.berlinlibrary.org/. Photo of Rep. Ballweg courtesy WI State Legislature.

Stitch'n' Bitch Events

2010-01-24T12:45:00.001-06:00

The Janesville Jets & Janesville Area Stitch 'n Bitch join forces for
Pucks 'n Purls @ Janesville Ice Arena on February 7

Join fellow knitters and crocheters for a fun filled afternoon of NAHL hockey brought to you by the Janesville Area Stitch 'n Bitch and the Janesville Jets. Enjoy working on your stitching projects and watching hockey at Pucks 'n Purls on Sunday, February 7 in the Janesville Ice Arena, 821 Beloit Ave., Janesville. The puck drops at 2:00pm. Call 608-752-5387 to reserve your advance stitchers ticket for $5 per person which includes seating with other stitchers, a "goody bag" (while supplies last), and the opportunity to win door prizes. For additional information call 608-752-5387, 608-752-9248 or visit www.stitchingcreationsandcommunity.blogspot.com

Midwinter Fiber & Yarn Tasting February 27 @ Basics

Get fleeced at Stitch n' Bitch's Midwinter Fiber & Yarn Tasting at Basics Natural Food Co-op, 1711 Lodge Drive, Janesville from 9am-4pm on Saturday, February 27. Come join us where yarns adorn us, addictive behavior to yarn is accepted and even encouraged, and where shiny needles are better than gold necklaces. Explore the fibers and products of south central Wisconsin farms including Firefly Field Finns, Pacesetter Alpacas, Rainbow Fleece Farm, Stone Crest Llamas, Nina's Goats, and more. Enjoy demonstrations of spinning and needlework, visit the "Yarn Bar" where you can try stitching with various yarns, receive a goody bag (while supplies last), learn how to knit or crochet, and enter for your chance to win prizes. Admission is free. All Midwinter Fiber & Yarn Tasting activities are FREE and open to all ages but donations on behalf of the Janesville/Rock Valley Project Linus of fabric, yarn, and new, child-friendly handmade blankets to comfort, warm and provide security for area children will be gratefully accepted. For additional information call 608-752-9248, proartist@aol.com, or visit www.stitchingcreationsandcommunity.blogspot.com

3 Opportunities for Stitchers Every Week!

Join other stitchers of mass discussion each week where the focus of the group is knitting but needle-crafty of any portable skill, of all ages and of both genders are always welcome. No membership fees nor requirements. FREE spinning, knitting and crochet lessons, advise and trouble-shooting are always available. Gatherings:
Every Monday, 1:30-3:30, SpeakEasy, 19 N. High St., Janesville
Every Thursday, 6-9pm, Basics Natural Foods Coop, 1711 Lodge Drive., Janesville
Every Saturday, 10am-Noon, Codos Coffee Shop, 119 N. Main St., Janesville
For more information visit www.stitchingcreationsandcommunity.blogspot.com, e-mail proartist@aol.com, or call 608-752-9248.

Medical Marijuana Vigil Jan. 20th

2010-01-14T21:22:00.004-06:00

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Supporters of the medical marijuana bill introduced by Rep Mark Pocan (D-Mason) and Sen Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee) will gather Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 12pm in the Capitol Rotunda in Madison for a memorial remembering Mary Powers and other patients who simply ran out of time. Mary would have been 51 on Jan. 14. The price they paid, the pain they endured is enough. It is time to put aside hand-wringing that gets us nowhere and stand up with the now 14 states who have recognized the legitimacy of medical pot.

Following the noon vigil supporters will canvas the Capitol to urge their elected representatives to support AB554/SB368. There will be a table in the rotunda with information on meeting your reps and people who can help you with any questions.

If you cannot make it, please call your legislators and have their phones ring all day in support of Medical Marijuana. The Legislative Hotline is 800-362-9472. Or look up your representative at http://www.facebook.com/l/228d0;www.legis.state.wi.us/w3asp/waml/waml.aspx. http://www.facebook.com/l/228d0;. Please make sure everyone you know who supports medical marijuana make the calls.

We cannot lose this opportunity to act, to do something, whether in person or phone, to get this bill passed now. We cannot be that state that does not look forward. We are much better than that. This law can be crafted to meet everyone's needs, and then some. Read more at http://www.facebook.com/l/228d0;IMMLY.org (Is My Medicine Legal Yet?) or http://www.facebook.com/l/228d0;JRMMA.org.

Wisconsin NORML

Local GOP, Newspaper Targeting County Office

2010-01-11T13:33:00.003-06:00

This is not a good day for Democrats in Rock County. If you've seen the Sunday edition of the Janesville Daily Gazette (Gazettextra.com) you will become painfully aware of how the Gazette is used by the Republicans in Rock County with the article they ran on Jenifer Keach, the Rock County Coroner. As many of you may know, Jenifer is my daughter. She is the most qualified coroner in the history of Rock County. Not only is she extremely intelligent, she has the highest credentials, being qualified and certified in every aspect of her work. Since being appointed to her job by Governor Doyle 5 years ago, she has totally rebuilt the Rock County Coroner's office from scratch following a drug scandal by the former Republican coroner. Since her appointment, she has successfully run for the office and earned the votes of 57% of the voters in Rock County. Since her election she has raised the standards for coroners state-wide and is currently the president of the Wisconsin Coroner and Medical Examiner Association. I might also add that Jenifer is the descendent of a 3-generation labor family and totally understands the values that we all hold dear. I can also attest to her character as being impeccable.

How sad it is that the Republicans in Rock County are so desperate to regain a foothold in public offices from near-extinction (thanks to the efforts of local labor) that they will use their lackey Republican rag to tear down such a successful Democrat. But this is just the first of many salvos to come. As we head towards the fall elections, the Republicans and the Gazette are going to be attacking all of our Democratic friends. I have become aware they are currently gathering evidence for sickening attacks on all of our political friends. I hope that as labor and political leaders you will join with me in making sure the voters in Rock County understand what the Republicans are up to and begin working to set the record straight. I'm sure that Republicans in Rock County are looking at the diminished presence of the UAW in our community as their best opportunity in decades to return to public office. Let's not let this happen.

Let me begin by saying the accusations and allegations made in the Gazette story are not founded on any facts and are not substantiated in any way. They are worded to appear as truths but are actually based on the claims of a disgruntled ex-employee of the coroner's office who quit without notice. Then, weeks later the employee filed hateful claims with the highly unusual assistance of two republican members of the Rock County Board. The information she gave the county administration and the county Human Resource office was brought to bear by the county board members Dick Ott (Dist. 23) and J. Russell Podzilni (Chairman, Dist. 22). Since this is a matter related to an employee who resigned her post and left without notice or explanation, one has to ask why two known republican board members would become involved in this matter. Board members have no authority in employee human resource matters. They are private and confidential. On the same note, one has to wonder why the Gazette was so interested in the accusations of a disgruntled ex-employee who left her job on her own volition without notice. In fact, they were so interested, they filed a dubious public information request for private employee records. In addition, why did the county administration and corporate council yield to this inappropriate request? Could it be to protect their jobs from two board members?

As a result of these shenanigans perpetrated by the Republicans and the "Republican Rag", Jenifer Keach was required to hire an attorney to protect her office and good name. This is a role the county corporate council is required to play. Why did they not represent Jenifer in this matter? Who is pulling the strings? Will other county Democrats be faced with these attacks and left to defend their reputation without support from the county?

It has been established that the disgruntled ex-employee is a friend of Melissa Haverly (Independent candidate for coroner - 2006), a highly vocal former deputy coroner who was fired by the deposed republican coroner. As the deputy coroner, the disgruntled ex-employee acted as an agent for Melissa during the four years she worked in the coroner's office for Jenifer. During that time she passed information to Melissa that might be used for Melissa's next political challenge for the coroner's office of Rock County. As comrades, Melissa and the ex-employee appear to have conspired with Republicans to position themselves for election as the coroner of Rock County or the insider promise of being selected as the next medical examiner for the county. The hopes of being promised the medical examiner's position was dashed when the county board reversed their position on the issue last year. That left the potential candidate and the Republicans with their only option - to destroy Jenifer's reputation with malicious hear-say to gain leverage for their challenge to win the coroner's office in 2010.

It is unthinkable that anyone would want to tear down the reputation of an exemplary public servant like Jenifer Keach that works diligently to provide the highest level of services to the voters of Rock County simply so they can have the office. Obviously, they are not interested in assuring the voters of good public servants - just get the office at any cost. I hope that you will join with me in support of Jenifer on the blog at gazettextra.com or by calling Stan Milam (WCLO 1230 AM) at 608-752-4000 for his Monday, January 11 show at 9:30 am. Please voice your views on what a disservice the Gazette is doing to the voters of Rock County. I would appreciate hearing from you as well and I know Jenifer will also. By the way, on Monday Jenifer will be conducting the State of Wisconsin Coroner's and Medical Examiner's Association convention in Wausau, Wisconsin - doing great things for the voters of Rock County and Wisconsin.

Written by Richard L. Costerisan

ECHO/Janesville Athletic Club Fund Raiser!

2009-11-30T16:03:00.009-06:00

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ECHO and the Janesville Athletic Club have teamed up to let you enjoy a three-month regular membership to the Atheltic Club for just $20. Fundraising proceeds go to ECHO (Everyone Cooperating to Help Others), which has been especially busy this year assisting area families with rent assistance, food, and other badly-needed services. Every weekday, ECHO supplies about a week's worth of food to 40 families. It could be many more, but 40 is the maximum ECHO can serve in a day. Rent, transportation and other assistance has increased with the area's growing unemployment rate.

So here's how you can help while also helping yourself!

The warm therapeutic pool, whirlpools in each locker room, weight room, cardio room, walking/running track, basketball and other sports, and now Monday evening yoga and everything at the club are all yours for three months for just $20.

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS:

Anyone age 14 or older, who has not been an Athletic Club member in the last 6 months, and who is a permanent area resident, may redeem a pass. And they are transferrable, so you can give one (or more!) as a gift if you like.

Because of how the fundraiser works, we send in all the orders at the end of the campaign (Dec. 30) and receive the actual passes around January 5. We can deliver this or arrange for pick-up.

Once you receive the pass, you must activate it within 35 days (so, around Feb. 10) by taking it to the club. Your three month membership begins on the day you activate it.

I just wanted to make sure you had all the details in advance.

HOW TO GET THIS DEAL:

You must purchase by Dec. 30. You can Contact Denise directly (see below) or you can visit Codos Coffee, 119 N. Main St., Janesville -- that's across from M&I Bank, between Main Street Saloon and Perfectly Plus. Russ, the owner at Codos, can sell you your pass. He'll give you a receipt and take the info so we can deliver your pass.

Contact Denise at dwrites@hotmail.com or at 608-289-0682 for other arrangements.

One more alternative is to go to the ECHO office after 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday. I discourage this, because the staff is already very busy, but if this is your best alternative, you're welcome to stop in. In this event, please be prepared to wait in line behind clients.

Any questions, or more options, contact Denise.

Thank you!
Denise Showers
ECHO volunteer

P.S. Remember, this special deal ends December 30th! Reserve your passes today.

Support Medical Marijuana

2009-11-26T00:02:00.006-06:00

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Help us pass the Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act in 2009!

In the link above is a convenient, pre-written letter urging your representatives to vote on a bill for the statewide regulation of medical marijuana in Wisconsin.

It only takes about 30 seconds to complete and send off. It's that easy!

(download the flyer here)

Read the text of the JRMMA:

Assembly Bill 554 | Senate Bill 368

How to testify and submit written testimony here.

Upcoming Events

A combined Assembly/Senate committee public hearing will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009 @ 10:00 am in Room 412 East of the State Capitol.

Health Care Vigil In Milwaukee

2009-11-10T20:39:00.004-06:00

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An assortment of area community and faith organizations will unite to demand an end to unneeded suffering and deaths due to a flawed health system.

MILWAUKEE – A wide assortment of Milwaukee area individuals and organizations will gather this Friday (Nov. 13) at 5:30 p.m. in front of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 3022 W. Wisconsin Avenue, to hold a Vigil for Health Care.

Participants will stand in unity with those who have suffered as a result of our flawed health system, before entering the church for a program beginning at 6:00 p.m.

The program will include:

• Perspectives from the faith community and health care providers to the poor, homeless and uninsured Reverend Joseph Ellwanger, organizer for WISDOM
William Mullooly, lead social worker at St. Ben’s Health Clinic Dionne Young, APNP, nurse practitioner at St. Ben’s Health Clinic.

• Update on reform legislation
Brian Rothgery, Deputy Program Director for Citizen Action Paulette Garin, Wisconsin State Coordinator for Progressive Democrats of America.

• Perspectives of sponsoring organizations
Sponsors and co-sponsors for the vigil include the Democratic Party of Milwaukee County, MICAH, WISDOM, Citizen Action, Health Care for America Now, Organizing for America , Progressive Democrats of America , Peace Action Wisconsin, Casa Maria, Healthcare Now, and The Leadership Conference for Guaranteed Healthcare – The National Single Payer Alliance.

The vigil’s speakers, sponsors and participants have varying opinions of the specific policy decisions before our nation’s legislators. The focus of this vigil is not public option versus single payer, or even Republican versus Democrat. The vigil is a unifying opportunity for those who demand responsible federal health reform over the status quo.

The Democratic Party of Milwaukee County is an all-volunteer organization, and serves as the local chapter of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin . Democrats value broad prosperity, mutual responsibility, effective government, a better future, and a stronger America. The DPMC meets the fourth Monday of most months at 7:00 p.m. in the Hall of Fame Room at the Pettit National Ice Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park.

Contact: Dave Redemann, Communications Chair
(414) 520-4401
communications@milwaukeedems.org

##########

Wisconsin’s Inconvenient Truth

2009-11-03T10:34:00.002-06:00

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Environmental Café

What could be better than a vanilla latte, pumpkin scone and an educational chat about environmental issues affecting our lives? Ok, maybe not the info about the environment – life for many is depressing enough right now without adding horror stories of airborne toxins, chemicals in your shampoo, and urban sprawl.

We heard about a “Science Café” - A Science café is a live event in a casual setting like a pub or coffeehouse. An actual Scientist makes a brief presentation about a current scientific topic, and then a group discussion takes place, allowing all in attendance to get involved, to learn, and most importantly, to talk with your mouth full. (really, that is from sciencecafe.org ‘s website) These events are popular in large cities, allowing anyone to attend, grab a brew, learn about the latest issues, chat with knowledgeable professionals, meet new friends, and speak your mind on interesting topics. There is much to discuss, so why not do so with some like-minded people, over a great cup of coffee and a muffin? PS. Bring your own cup.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009
7:00-8:30 PM

Hedberg Public Library - Program Room
(upstairs near the Children’s Library)

Guest Speaker: Ryan Schryver
of Clean Wisconsin, Madison

A 30-minute open discussion about our changing global and local climate follows a 60 minute presentation. Sponsored by Rock Environmental Network. Bring a mug and stop on your way in for a fill-up at The Ground Floor coffee shop on the library's lower level.

For more info, email: rockenvironmentalnetwork@charter.net

Capitalism: A Love Story Playing At Wildwood

2009-10-30T00:39:00.004-05:00

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The Michael Moore documentary "Capitalism: A Love Story" is now playing in Janesville at the Wildwood Theatre, 1620 Newport Avenue, Janesville, WI.

Hometown Congressman Paul Ryan makes a cameo appearance in the documentary playing himself. Click here for showtimes.

Capital Times Review.

Milton Library Discussion Course on Global Warming

2009-10-02T11:17:00.001-05:00

Small, local grassroots environmental group (NatuRescue) will be hosting a new discussion course this October titled "Global Warming: Changing Course".

The course will be held Monday evenings, 6:30pm-8:00pm at the Milton Public Library.

The course will run October 19th thru November 16th.

The purchase price for the book to be discussed is $21 with no additional charge for the course.

Support Single payer Health Care

2009-09-05T00:02:00.003-05:00

Single Payer, and specifically HR 676 - The United States National Health Care Act, were the ONLY health care reform plans endorsed and put on the Democratic Party of Wisconsin's Platform and Resolutions at the 2009 Convention. HERE is a link to the complete Platform and Resolutions.

For the first time ever, Single Payer legislation will be debated and voted on by the House of Representatives in September. Rep. Anthony Weiner (NY-9) introduced an amendment to President Obama's healthcare reform bill (HR 3200) that would replace it with HR 676, the single-payer bill. Speaker Pelosi pledged to bring it to a debate and vote on the full House floor in September.

Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont is expected to bring S 703 to the floor for a vote in the Senate.

And Rep. Dennis Kucinich (OH) wants to enable states to establish single-payer systems.

Let's demand that our congressional delegation vote YES on Rep. Weiner's amendment, S 703, and Rep. Kucinich's state single-payer amendment in September!

Call our Wisconsin congressional delegation and our President. Ask them to support Single Payer Health Care.

President Barack Obama 202-456-1111

Senator Herb Kohl (D-WI) 202-224-5653
Senator Russell D. Feingold (D- WI) 202-224-5323

Representative Paul Ryan (R - 01) 202-225-3031
Representative Tammy Baldwin (D - 02) 202-225-2906
Representative Ron Kind (D - 03) 202-225-5506
Representative Gwen Moore (D - 04) 202-225-4572
Representative F. James Sensenbrenner, Jr. (R - 05) 202-225-5101
Representative Thomas E. Petri (R - 06) 202-225-2476
Representative David R. Obey (D - 07) 202-225-3365
Representative Steve Kagen (D - 08) 202-225-5665