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August 17th
8-17-10 fdl county sheriff's deputy saves man's life
A quick thinking Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s deputy is credited with helping save a man’s life over the weekend. Rescue personnel were called to a residence on Karst Drive over the weekend to a report of a 56 year old man who had suffered an apparent heart attack and did not have a pulse and was not breathing. Sheriff’s Chief Deputy, Mark Strand, says patrol deputy Tony Barr was on the scene in about five minutes and grabbed his automated external defibrillator. "He hooked up the patches and monitored it and they actually walk you through it on audio tones and he activated the shock and they wound up getting a pulse and he was breathing on his own," Strand said. "When the ambulance got there he (heart attack victim) was talking to them...they transported him to the hospital. He eventually went to Froedert Hospital...I talked to Froedert this morning and the gentleman is doing fine." Strand says all squad cars in the department are equipped with AEDs. He says all of them were recently replaced with new ones. "Tony Barr did an exceptional job with it and I'm confident that when the Law Enforcement Executive Committee needs an Officer Of The Year...this is the kind of thing you're looking at," Strand said. Strand says because deputies are already on patrol they are often the first
people to arrive on the scene...ahead of the ambulance.
8-17-10 waupun man says intruder tried to blow up his house
A Waupun man says someone broke into his house and tried to kill him while he was sleeping. The 47 year old man told officers he woke up to go to the bathroom and could smell natural gas...discovered his stove burners had been turned on...and a kerosene lamp was lit. He also says some of his personal items had been removed from his home. Deputy Police Chief Mindy Hendricks says the incident remains under investigation. "The reason he was looking for officers was because his house was also burglarized. His cellphones were missing along with a laptop, and a digital camera, " Hendricks said. "The officers went back to the house and he explained that when he woke up to use the restroom, he could smell gas. He also noticed that a Kerosene lamp was burning and he didn't have that going before he went to bed." Hendricks says police are talking with a potential suspect...and says this was not a random act. Waupun police are continuing their investigation.
8-17-10 campbellsport fire
Nobody was injured in a fire that damaged a Campbellsport home this morning. A child playing with a sparkler apparently started the fire at 125 Cherry Street. The occupants were able to get out of the house before the fire department arrived. The bedroom where the fire started was destroyed. The rest of the house received fire, smoke and water damage.
8-17-10 elderly driver hits pedestrian in crosswalk
A Fond du Lac man received minor injuries when he was struck by a car in a crosswalk. Police Captain, Steve Klein, says the incident happened Sunday night at the intersection of 9th and Main Streets. The victim, 54 year old, Christopher Christian, was transported to the hospital for treatment of a leg injury. The driver of the car, 87 year old, Oletta Schramm, was cited for failure to yield the right of way.
8-17-10 pedestrian killed in manitowac
TWO CREEKS, Wis. (AP) — A 23-year-old man has died after he was hit by a vehicle while walking on a Manitowoc County highway early Monday. Sheriff's officials say Dustin Knapp of Manitowoc died of a head injury when he was struck in the middle of Highway 42 about 4:30 a.m. Deputies say Knapp had been drinking and that may be a contributing factor. A 42-year-old Two Rivers man was on his way to work when he hit Knapp in the town of Two Creeks.
8-17-10 fdl priest says he will comply with best buy's request
A Fond du Lac priest has agreed to remove the decals from his "God Squad" car. Father Luke Strand received a cease and desist letter from Best Buy because the company said the priest’s Volkswagen Beetle was too close to the company’s Geek Squad cars. Holy Family Catholic Community said in a statement that Father Luke Strand understands Best Buy’s need to protect their trademark and has complied with their request to remove the decals from his car. The statement reads that Father Luke will continue to find creative ways to spead the Gospel and thanks everyon who has expressed their concern and support for him and his ministry.
8-17-10 obama visits wisconsin MENOMONEE FALLS, Wis. (AP) — President Barack Obama says a Milwaukee-area battery plant represents the country's future in renewable energy. Obama visited ZBB Energy Corp. in Menomonee Falls on Monday morning. The company makes batteries and fuel cells that get used in renewable-energy products. He told workers he's glad to see clean-energy manufacturing jobs here in the U.S. instead of overseas. He says he wants cars of the future to have engines and batteries all stamped, "Made in the United States." Obama spoke for about 15 minutes before a supportive crowd of about 50 ZBB workers and their families. He struck an optimistic tone, saying the economic is growing again. He says when the chips are down, it's a mistake to bet against American industry.
8-17-10 fdl county director of administration has high praise for new ems director
The Fond du lac County Director of Administration says she is pleased with the county’s choice for the next Emergency Management Experience. Erin Gerred says Jim McNabb brings a great deal of
experience to the job. "He was a police officer in Missouri and Kansas and in Wisconsin. He was 12 years as a police chief and also has a background in emergency management in Columbia, Missouri," Gerred said. "He has both sides if you will and the center that he managed was a consolidated communications center...similararily structured to the way we are here in the sense that it was both emergency management and 911 communications." McNabb will replace Gerred who has been handling both duties since her appointment as Director of Administration earlier this summer. Gerred says McNabb was selected out of a field of very impressive candidates. If the county board approves hiring McNabb at their meeting Tuesday night he will begin his new duties around September 13th. McNabb is a Wisconsin native and is currently working in Columbia, Missouri for a firm that contracts work with FEMA.
8-17-10 walker says he would give back money for high speed rail
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Republican candidate for governor Scott Walker says he's so opposed to high-speed rail that if he's elected, he'll give back every cent in federal funding earmarked for the project.
The $810 million for the rail line between Madison and Milwaukee comes from federal stimulus funds. Walker on Monday said even so, the state will be on the hook for $10 million each year in maintenance and other costs. The Milwaukee County Executive has previously suggested using the funds to fix aging infrastructure, but the money can only be used for the rail project. So Walker says he'd give it all back. Walker and former U.S. Rep. Mark Neumann are the leading GOP candidates for governor. Neumann also opposes high-speed rail. On the Democratic side of the race, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett supports the project.
8-17-10 uw system budget
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The University of Wisconsin System plans to ask lawmakers for $22.6 million to increase undergraduate enrollment by 5,900 students over two years. A budget proposal being released Monday calls for hiring additional instructors, academic advisers and other employees to teach and serve the extra students. UW System spokesman David Giroux says the money would also pay for programs that are proven to help retain students, such as first-year seminars and undergraduate research projects. He says the enrollment growth would come from retaining 2,200 more students and attracting 3,700 new students, partly through improved college outreach programs. The plan is included in an operating budget request the Board of Regents will consider Thursday.
8-17-10 attendance up at state fair
WEST ALLIS, Wis. (AP) — Attendance was up this year at the Wisconsin State Fair, but cream puff sales were slightly down. More than 876,000 people attended the 11-day event that ended on Sunday in West Allis. That's a 5 percent increase over last year. But cream puff sales were down. More than 338,000 cream puffs were sold, which is a decrease of about 2 percent from the year before. Fair spokeswoman Kristin Chuckel says the decline is likely due to the economy and the heat. She also speculated that it might be due to the new food choices this year, including many foods on a stick.
8-17-10 record trout
RACINE, Wis. (AP) — A Franksville man has earned bragging rights after catching what the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame says is the heaviest brown trout on record anywhere. Roger Hellen and his fishing partner Joe Miller netted the 41-pound, 8-ouncer on July 16 at the annual Salmon-A-Rama fishing contest on Lake Michigan in Racine. Hellen is still hoping for further certification from the International Game Fish Association in Florida. He edged out the previous record set last Sept. 9 by Tom Healy, who caught a 41-pound, 7-ouncer in the Manistee River in Michigan. Hellen says he was just in the right place at the right time.
8-17-10 kids from wisconsin
The Kids from Wisconsin will return to Fond du Lac for their 16th annual free appearance at Buttermilk Creek Park on Wednesday, Aug. 18 at 7:15 p.m. Their high-spirited performance features 20 singer/dancers and a 13-piece band, all chosen by audition from among the State’s finest young musicians. Singers/dancers with this year’s troupe include John Dobbratz, Calvin Franke, Chelsea Hoelz, Jenny Kruger and Travis Wass, all of Mayville; Courtney Toepel, Kiel; and David Mullins, Appleton. Featured in this year’s band are Tyler Henderson (Sheboygan) on trombone, and Mike Malone (Oshkosh) on drums. The Kids' show this year has something for everyone – from the Fascinatin’ Rhythms of Gershwin to the music of Michael Jackson to the best of Country 2010. Also on the program: a Broadway tribute to Grease, and the music of Three Dog Night, Steely Dan and the Dave Matthews Band. As the official musical ambassadors of goodwill for the State of Wisconsin, the Kids from Wisconsin show has been delighting audiences since 1969, when it was developed as a program of the Wisconsin State Fair. Now a separate non-profit corporation, the KIDS troupe continues to perform daily during the 11-day run of the Fair and maintains headquarters at the State Fairgrounds. The Lighthouse Big Band will present a 60 minute concert prior to the Kids’ performance, and the Fond du Lac Area Childrens’ Chorale will also perform at that time. Major sponsors for this year’s performance are the Francis R. and Ruth E. Oberreich Foundation and Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, with co-sponsor funding from Service League and the Noon Rotary Club. Funding for the Buttermilk Festival is also provided by local business and individual donors known collectively as the Friends of the Festival, and a free-will offering that will be received at the concert.
A food concession, serving sandwiches, soda and desserts, will be available from 6:00 p.m. on. In the event of bad weather, the concert will be moved to the EXPO Center at the County Fairgrounds. 8-17-10 fdl weekly construction update
Park Avenue Reconstruction from 7th Street to Johnson Street
Schedule: March 22, 2010 to Late September 2010 Description: The project includes reconstruction of the street, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water main, and street lighting. The street width will remain essentially the same. August 15 to August 21: East - west streets crossing Park Ave are paved and open from Sheboygan Street to 7th Street. Work will continue on the traffic signals and street lights. The mainline roadway on Park Ave is paved from Ledgeview Avenue to Sheboygan Street, except the Division Street intersection. Curb and gutter will be constructed this week from Hoyt Street to Sheboygan Street. Street light conduit and driveway approach construction on Park Avenue continues. Driveways will be closed for a week after driveway paving for concrete to gain strength. Merrill Avenue and Ledgeview Avenue will be open to east-west traffic, but Rees Street and Hoyt Street will remain closed. The intersection of Division Street and Park Avenue will be closed for two weeks for excavation and paving. Traffic Impacts: Park Avenue from Sixth Street to Johnson Street is closed to north-south through traffic and Park Avenue is closed to all traffic at Division Street. Park Avenue is open to local traffic and crossing traffic except where signed “ROAD CLOSED”. Residents may access their property from side streets marked “ROAD CLOSED – LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY” but should not park vehicles on the street during working hours. Macy Street from about 300 feet north of Scott Street to Follett Street.
Schedule: May 3, 2010 to Late October 2010 Description: The project includes reconstruction of the street, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water main, and street lighting. The street will be widened to the 32-foot City standard. August 15 to August 21: The utility contractor completed the sanitary and water laterals and both crews continue to install the storm main. Storm lateral construction will begin when the storm main is completed. Traffic Impacts: Macy Street will be closed to through traffic; residents and business customers may access property past “ROAD CLOSED – LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY” signs, but should not park vehicles on the street during working hours. Maple Ave from Ray St to Cottage Ave
Schedule: May 3, 2010 to Late October 2010 Description: The project includes reconstruction of the street, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water main, and street lighting. The street width will remain at 27 feet. August 15 to August 21: The electrical contractor will be installing conduit for the street lights after the placement of the curb & gutter. The excavation crew will follow the electrical contractor and backfill the conduit and curb. Traffic Impacts: Maple Ave will be closed to through traffic; residents may access property past “ROAD CLOSED – LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY” signs, but should not park vehicles on the street during working hours. Bank St from Main St to Macy St
Schedule: May 3, 2010 to Late October 2010 Description: The project includes reconstruction of the street, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water main, and street lighting. The street will be widened to the 32-foot City street. August 15 to August 21: The underground utilities are complete, with road excavation to follow.
Traffic Impacts: Bank Street will be closed to through traffic; residents business customers may access property past “ROAD CLOSED – LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY” signs, but should not park vehicles on the street during working hours. Doty Street Bridge & Approaches
Schedule: May to August 2010 Location: Rees Street to Division Street Description: This State of Wisconsin DOT project involves removing the old steel girder structure and replacing it with a new two span slab span structure. August 15 to August 21: Contractor will install pavement markings, finish up the roadway and miscellaneous punch list items. Traffic impacts: The Bridge is closed to all road traffic during this project. There will be no detour route. The walking trail is also closed to pedestrian traffic. Grove Street from the West Branch Fond du lac River east to 458 Grove Street.
Schedule: June 28 to November 1, 2010 Description: The State of Wisconsin DOT managed project includes reconstruction of the bridge, street, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, watermain. August 15 to August 21: Contractor will install a cofferdam for the construction of the new bridge pier. Pile driving for the pier will begin. Contractor will continue with water main installation.
Traffic Impact: The bridge is closed; the street is open to local traffic only. 8-17-10 division street closure
The Department of Public of Works would like to notify the public that Division Street will be closed to all traffic at Park Avenue for two weeks beginning early Monday morning, August 16. During this time the intersection will be excavated and repaved. There will not be a marked detour route but Merrill Avenue, Sheboygan Street and 2nd Street crossing Park Avenue will be open to traffic.
8-17-10 county highway q closure
County Trunk Highway (CTH) Q from CTH W(south) to CTH G in the Towns of Calumet, Marshfield and Taycheedah will be closed to thru traffic starting Monday, August 16, 2010 for construction. Construction is expected to last about a month, weather permitting. The Fond du Lac County Highway Commission will replace culverts and pulverize and resurface the highway. The highway will be closed to thru traffic, but open for local traffic. The highway will be detoured via CTH W, CTH WH and CTH G. For updates and more information on other County Highway construction projects, go to the Fond du Lac County Highway Construction Projects web page at http://www.fdlco.wi.gov/Index.aspx?page=1112.
8-17-10 county highway w closure
County Trunk Highway (CTH) W from CTH WH to CTH WW in the Village of Mt. Calvary and Town of Marshfield was closed to thru traffic Wednesday, July 21 for construction. Construction is expected to last about a month, weather permitting. The Fond du Lac County Highway Commission will replace culverts and guardrail, pulverize and resurface the highway. The highway is closed to thru traffic, but open for local traffic. The highway is detoured via CTH WH and CTH WW. For updates and more information on other County Highway construction projects, go to the Fond du Lac County Highway Construction Projects web page at http://www.fdlco.wi.gov/Index.aspx?page=1112. 8-17-10 fdl police department law of the month
The City of Fond du Lac Ordinance 9.05, Loitering and Prowling, addresses certain behaviors that are mostly viewed as suspicious or lending opportunity to illegal activity. In short, the ordinance applies to private and public property, streets and sidewalks, restrooms and schools. In fact, it can be used almost anywhere at any time conditions exist. In light of recent residential and commercial burglaries we need the citizens of Fond du Lac to be watchful of their neighborhoods. The Police Department frequently receives calls from citizens about suspicious persons a day or more after they are seen. Officers are frequently asked by citizens if they should call the Police Department if they see something or someone they feel is out of place. The answer is yes! And do it when you see it! The people living in an area are going to notice someone that doesn’t belong there more readily than a police officer passing through the area. Police officers do stop and question people that appear to be acting suspiciously and citations are issued for prowling and /or loitering when appropriate. The fines range from $50.00 to $208.50. At a minimum the person(s) is identified and the information recorded. By contacting and identifying these subjects we may prevent a crime or develop a suspect for crimes committed. The Police Department does not encourage citizens to approach or contact persons they feel are suspicious. Police officers have the training and equipment to address this potentially dangerous situation. Keep in mind, if it doesn’t look right call the police and help us keep you and your property safe. If it looks suspicious, call 920-906-5555. If it looks like a crime in progress, call 911. For more information on starting a FDL Watches (Neighborhood Watch) group, call (920)322-3746 or go to our web site at www.fdlpolice.com
8-17-10 fdl county sheriff's department law of the month
The Federal Highway Administration has designated the first week of August as "National Stop on Red Week" to remind motorists that obeying traffic signs and signals at intersections can be a matter of life or death. Failing to stop completely at a red light or a stop sign at an intersection is not a minor infraction. There are many complex movements at intersections with vehicles entering, crossing and exiting at different points. Add the element of drivers who disregard the traffic controls and the dangers increase significantly. During crashes at intersections, vehicles often are hit in the side where there is comparatively little protection for drivers and passengers. Whether on rural roads or city streets, intersections undoubtedly are some of the most dangerous places drivers encounter. Nationwide, approximately 20 percent of all traffic deaths each year are the result of crashes at intersections, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Failing to obey a red light, stop sign or other traffic control device at an intersection is not only dangerous-it's also expensive. According to state law, a violation for failing to stop completely for a traffic signal, sign or marking costs $175.30 with three demerit points assessed on the driver's record. Committing a second offense within a year costs $213.10 with three points. The key to preventing crashes at intersections is quite simple. Drivers must keep an alert eye on traffic moving into, through, and out of the intersection. They also must obey all traffic signals and signs. Drivers should make it a habit to stop completely on red and not race through a yellow light to beat a red light. At a yellow light, you must stop unless you're so close to the intersection that you can't stop safely.
Have a Great Summer and Be Safe!
Sheriff Mick Fink
8-17-10 heart walk
FOND DU LAC, WIS – August 12, 2010) – The Fond du Lac Start! Heart Walk, the American Heart Association’s premier community fundraising event, will celebrate its return to the area on Saturday, September 11th at Marian University. Registration begins at 8 a.m. The1 and 3 mile participant walk begins at 9 a.m. Walkers are encouraged to organize teams at the companies where they work or with family and friends. Walkers may also ask others to support their walk effort by sponsoring them with a life-saving donation to the American Heart Association. The Start! Heart Walk is designed to promote physical activity and heart-healthy living, and creates an environment that's fun and rewarding for the entire family. “The American Heart Association helps us realize that being healthier doesn’t require us to run a marathon, but simply to incorporate more steps into our days. We can easily extend our lives—and our dollars—by participating in the Fond du Lac Start! Heart Walk,” says Kori Coffeen, Start! Heart Walk Director. “Walk with friends, family, coworkers and help make our community a healthier place to live, work and play. Your heart will thank you for it.” Research funded by the American Heart Association has yielded major advances, such as the heart-lung machine, CPR/ AED, life-extending drugs, pacemakers, bypass surgery and surgical techniques to repair heart defects and save lives. For more information about the Start! Heart Walk, contact the American Heart Association at 920-562-5682 or visit www.fonddulacheartwalk.org. Sponsorship from health-conscious local businesses and organizations make the event possible. * Aurora Health Care is a local event sponsor
* Start! is sponsored nationally by SUBWAY® Restaurants
About Start!
There are four key elements to the program:
* MyStart! Online, a free, Web-based fitness and nutrition tracker, provides constant, measurable personal improvement tips.
* The Start! Fit-Friendly Companies Recognition Program recognizes employers that champion the health of their employees and work to create a culture of physical activity in the workplace.
* The Start! Walking Program has three free, downloadable walking plans for people with varying goals and fitness levels, created by experts on the American Council on Exercise.
* Start! Heart Walk, the American Heart Association’s premier fund raiser, enables people to improve their health by walking while helping fund the fight against heart disease and stroke.
August 13th
8-13-10 fdl county farmer seriously injured when struck by tractor
A Fond du Lac county farmer was seriously injured when he was hit by a tractor. Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Lieutenant, Bill Tadych, says 59 year old, Lee Batterman was struck by a tractor driven by
his son, 26 year old Michael Batterman. The accident happened at their town of Byron farm on County Highway B shortly before 5:30 Thursday evening. Lee Batterman was flown by helicopter to Theda Clark Regional Medical Center with what were described as serious head injuries. The incident is still under investigation by the Sheriff’s Department.
8-13-10 bricks heave at fdl intersection under intense heat and humidity
High heat and humidity is taking its toll on Fond du Lac Streets. A police officer on patrol reported “bricks heaving” at the intersection of Johnson and Main Street around 6:30 pm Thursday...causing a traffic hazard. The officer also said a portion of the sidewalk at the intersection had “heaved up about a foot.” Department of Public Works was called to erect barricades.
8-13-10 fdl is first city in wisconsin to complete hazard mitigation program following 2008 floods
Fond du Lac is the first city in the state to complete a Hazard Mitigation Grant program following the 2008 floods. Community Development Director, Wayne Rollin, says all 14 homes acquired by the city under the program have been demolished. "Obviously a tragic situation you have to deal with but I'm proud of the way that the city of Fond du Lac responded. With the active assistance of the city council the city applied for and received federal funds to help these people out," Rollin said. Rollin says because the land must remain in public ownership, the city has been working with neighbors on using the lots for gardens and lawn areas in exchange for cutting the grass and shoveling the snow.
8-13-10 new fdl county emergency management director is from missouri
A former Emergency Management Director in Columbia, Missouri has been tabbed for the Fond du Lac County Emergency Management Director position. County Executive, Al Buechel, is recommending James McNabb be hired for the post. McNabb is a former police chief and former EMS director in Columbia, Missouri. He currently works with a firm that contracts with FEMA. He was one of three finalists for the position. The other finalists were Fond du Lac County Dispatch Center supervisor, Bobbie Hicken and assistant Dodge County Jail Administrator, Pat Ninman. Buechel says local police and fire departments played a role in narrowing the field of candidates. The county board will consider the hiring recommendation at their meeting Tuesday. A total of 30 people applied for the job. The vacancy was created when Erin Gerred was appointed Director of Administration.
8-13-10 wisconsin farmland selected for protection
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The first 5,000 acres of Wisconsin farmland to be protected under a new program has been selected. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection said Wednesday that the land was in 16 farms in Columbia, Dane, Dodge, Iowa, Jefferson, and Waupaca counties. The farms were selected from 36 applications under the new Purchase of Agricultural Conservation Easement program. Under the program, the state will pay for up to half of the cost to purchase permanent easements. The landowner is compensated for the fair market value of the easements, but also retains ownership of the farm and continues to operate it. Other nonagricultural uses of the land is forbidden.
8-13-10 cocaine suspects bound over for trial
Two individuals arrested in what was described as a major cocaine bust in Fond du Lac have been bound over for trial. Probable cause was found at preliminary hearing Thursday for Johnny Mojica and Allesandra Villeneuva. They were arrested after police were tipped off that several suspicious
packages had been delivered to a Fond du Lac residence. MEG drug unit officers recovered cocaine in the packages that had been shipped from Florida.
8-13-10 fdl police still looking for robbery suspect
Fond du Lac police are asking for the public’s help in finding a third suspect allegedly involved in an armed robbery last week. Police are looking for 22 year old, Alexander Norwood. Police Captain, Steve Klein, says Norwood and two other individuals are accused of robbing a man in the area of Military Road and Ruggles Street at approximately 11:30 pm on August 4th. A cash reward is being offered for information leading to Norwood’s arrest. Anyone with information on Norwood’s whereabouts is asked to call police.
8-13-10 phone scam
Fond du Lac police are warning residents about a possible phone scam. Police Captain Steve Klein says a 71 year old Fond du Lac woman reported she received a call from a man who said he was calling on behalf of the Fond du Lac police department. She says the caller asked for a $20 donation for a program that would provide intoxicated individuals rides home from taverns. But when the woman asked the caller to provide literature for the program the caller hung up. Klein says the police department does not conduct any type of phone solicitation.
8-13-10 child left at park
APPLETON, Wis. (AP) — Staff members at an Appleton day-care center say they're reviewing their policies after a 2½-year-old girl was left behind in a park for about 30 minutes. The girl was unhurt, but Creative Child Learning Center director Karen Olson says she's still "devastated" by the Aug. 5 incident. She says it's not clear what happened. She says staffers repeatedly counted the children, but the girl was somehow left behind. A police report says the group left the park about 12:10 p.m. Police arrived about half an hour later after other mothers in the park noticed the girl was unattended. Creative Learning received a separate state order in the spring requiring closer supervision of children. That's after a child got too close to a hot iron used in an art activity.
8-13-10 floating cows
MARTELL, Wis. (AP) — A herd of cows trying to cross a raging river in northwestern Wisconsin was swept away by the swift current. The herd endured six inches of rain in a pasture near Martell in Pierce County Wednesday. But when the 80 cows tried to cross the swollen Rush River to get back to their barn for feeding, they were caught in the fast-moving water. Doreen Smith says she was stunned to see a couple dozen cows "all in a blob" flying by in the river's current. Farmer Tim Wiff got some help from friends and neighbors and was able to round up most of the cattle. Some were found three miles downstream. Wiff says about 10 to 15 heifers are still missing.
8-13-10 wolf subscriptions
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Hundreds of people have signed up for state electronic notifications about wolf attacks on dogs. The Department of Natural Resources says 3,462 subscribers are receiving e-mail alerts about caution areas and attacks. People can sign up through the DNR's Web site. The DNR says wolves have killed 12 dogs and injured seven more since the beginning of the year. Eight of the fatal attacks have come since July 1, when the training season for bear-hunting hounds began.
8-13-10 obama fundraising
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is heading into another intense round of fundraising — a three-day, five-state swing to raise money for Democratic candidates on the ballot in November.
Starting Monday, Obama will make stops in Wisconsin, California, Washington state, Ohio and Florida before returning to the White House on Wednesday. In Seattle, Obama will headline campaign events for Sen. Patty Murray of Washington. He'll also discuss the new health care law at a meeting of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Immediately after the swing, Obama is scheduled to take his family to Martha's Vineyard, Mass., for vacation.
8-13-10 farm aid
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Farm Aid is expanding the lineup of its upcoming Milwaukee concert to include such performers as Kenny Chesney and Jason Mraz. Also scheduled to perform are Norah Jones, The BoDeans and Amos Lee. Farm Aid began in 1985 as a way to raise money for struggling family farmers. This year's 25th anniversary will be held Oct. 2 at Milwaukee's Miller Park. Farm Aid board members Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp and Dave Matthews have already said they'll perform. They'll be joined by Jeff Tweedy, Band of Horses and Robert Francis. Tickets go on sale Saturday. Costs range from about $40 to $100. The all-day festival is the longest-running benefit concert in the U.S. It will also feature local and organic foods grown at family farms.
8-13-10 kids from wisconsin
The Kids from Wisconsin will return to Fond du Lac for their 16th annual free appearance at Buttermilk Creek Park on Wednesday, Aug. 18 at 7:15 p.m. Their high-spirited performance features 20 singer/dancers and a 13-piece band, all chosen by audition from among the State’s finest young musicians. Singers/dancers with this year’s troupe include John Dobbratz, Calvin Franke, Chelsea Hoelz, Jenny Kruger and Travis Wass, all of Mayville; Courtney Toepel, Kiel; and David Mullins, Appleton. Featured in this year’s band are Tyler Henderson (Sheboygan) on trombone, and Mike Malone (Oshkosh) on drums. The Kids' show this year has something for everyone – from the Fascinatin’ Rhythms of Gershwin to the music of Michael Jackson to the best of Country 2010. Also on the program: a Broadway tribute to Grease, and the music of Three Dog Night, Steely Dan and the Dave Matthews Band. As the official musical ambassadors of goodwill for the State of Wisconsin, the Kids from Wisconsin show has been delighting audiences since 1969, when it was developed as a program of the Wisconsin State Fair. Now a separate non-profit corporation, the KIDS troupe continues to perform daily during the 11-day run of the Fair and maintains headquarters at the State Fairgrounds. The Lighthouse Big Band will present a 60 minute concert prior to the Kids’ performance, and the Fond du Lac Area Childrens’ Chorale will also perform at that time. Major sponsors for this year’s performance are the Francis R. and Ruth E. Oberreich Foundation and Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, with co-sponsor funding from Service League and the Noon Rotary Club. Funding for the Buttermilk Festival is also provided by local business and individual donors known collectively as the Friends of the Festival, and a free-will offering that will be received at the concert.
A food concession, serving sandwiches, soda and desserts, will be available from 6:00 p.m. on. In the event of bad weather, the concert will be moved to the EXPO Center at the County Fairgrounds.
8-13-10 petri to host grants and small business conferences
Noting that the federal government offers a myriad of programs which can help local governments, small businesses and nonprofits leverage their limited resources to successfully meet their various needs, Rep. Tom Petri is hosting two conferences in August: "Government Grants and Programs Conference," which will take place from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm on Thursday, August 12, 2010, at Lakeshore Technical College (LTC) at 1290 North Avenue in Cleveland. LTC is conveniently located off of U.S. Highway 43 between Sheboygan and Manitowoc. "Assistance to Small Business," which will take place from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm on Monday, August 16, 2010, at Moraine Park Technical College at 235 N. National Avenue in Fond du Lac. Both conferences will feature specific workshop sessions for local government, businesses and nonprofits. Throughout each program, panel presentations will provide opportunities for those who have been successful in capturing federal dollars to share their tips and ideas. Space is limited and registrations will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis. The registration fee includes materials, morning refreshments, and a luncheon. The deadline for registration is August 6, 2010. More information can be found in the Upcoming Events section at Petri's website at http://petri.house.gov or by calling his Fond du Lac Office at (920) 922-1180 or toll free at (800) 242-4883.
8-13-10 fdl weekly construction update
Park Avenue Reconstruction from 7th Street to Johnson Street
Schedule: March 22, 2010 to Late September 2010 Description: The project includes reconstruction of the street, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water main, and street lighting. The street width will remain essentially the same. August 15 to August 21: East - west streets crossing Park Ave are paved and open from Sheboygan Street to 7th Street. Work will continue on the traffic signals and street lights. The mainline roadway on Park Ave is paved from Ledgeview Avenue to Sheboygan Street, except the Division Street intersection. Curb and gutter will be constructed this week from Hoyt Street to Sheboygan Street. Street light conduit and driveway approach construction on Park Avenue continues. Driveways will be closed for a week after driveway paving for concrete to gain strength. Merrill Avenue and Ledgeview Avenue will be open to east-west traffic, but Rees Street and Hoyt Street will remain closed. The intersection of Division Street and Park Avenue will be closed for two weeks for excavation and paving. Traffic Impacts: Park Avenue from Sixth Street to Johnson Street is closed to north-south through traffic and Park Avenue is closed to all traffic at Division Street. Park Avenue is open to local traffic and crossing traffic except where signed “ROAD CLOSED”. Residents may access their property from side streets marked “ROAD CLOSED – LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY” but should not park vehicles on the street during working hours. Macy Street from about 300 feet north of Scott Street to Follett Street.
Schedule: May 3, 2010 to Late October 2010 Description: The project includes reconstruction of the street, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water main, and street lighting. The street will be widened to the 32-foot City standard. August 15 to August 21: The utility contractor completed the sanitary and water laterals and both crews continue to install the storm main. Storm lateral construction will begin when the storm main is completed. Traffic Impacts: Macy Street will be closed to through traffic; residents and business customers may access property past “ROAD CLOSED – LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY” signs, but should not park vehicles on the street during working hours. Maple Ave from Ray St to Cottage Ave
Schedule: May 3, 2010 to Late October 2010 Description: The project includes reconstruction of the street, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water main, and street lighting. The street width will remain at 27 feet. August 15 to August 21: The electrical contractor will be installing conduit for the street lights after the placement of the curb & gutter. The excavation crew will follow the electrical contractor and backfill the conduit and curb. Traffic Impacts: Maple Ave will be closed to through traffic; residents may access property past “ROAD CLOSED – LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY” signs, but should not park vehicles on the street during working hours. Bank St from Main St to Macy St
Schedule: May 3, 2010 to Late October 2010 Description: The project includes reconstruction of the street, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water main, and street lighting. The street will be widened to the 32-foot City street. August 15 to August 21: The underground utilities are complete, with road excavation to follow.
Traffic Impacts: Bank Street will be closed to through traffic; residents business customers may access property past “ROAD CLOSED – LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY” signs, but should not park vehicles on the street during working hours. Doty Street Bridge & Approaches
Schedule: May to August 2010 Location: Rees Street to Division Street Description: This State of Wisconsin DOT project involves removing the old steel girder structure and replacing it with a new two span slab span structure. August 15 to August 21: Contractor will install pavement markings, finish up the roadway and miscellaneous punch list items. Traffic impacts: The Bridge is closed to all road traffic during this project. There will be no detour route. The walking trail is also closed to pedestrian traffic. Grove Street from the West Branch Fond du lac River east to 458 Grove Street.
Schedule: June 28 to November 1, 2010 Description: The State of Wisconsin DOT managed project includes reconstruction of the bridge, street, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, watermain. August 15 to August 21: Contractor will install a cofferdam for the construction of the new bridge pier. Pile driving for the pier will begin. Contractor will continue with water main installation.
Traffic Impact: The bridge is closed; the street is open to local traffic only. 8-13-10 division street closure
The Department of Public of Works would like to notify the public that Division Street will be closed to all traffic at Park Avenue for two weeks beginning early Monday morning, August 16. During this time the intersection will be excavated and repaved. There will not be a marked detour route but Merrill Avenue, Sheboygan Street and 2nd Street crossing Park Avenue will be open to traffic.
8-13-10 county highway q closure
County Trunk Highway (CTH) Q from CTH W(south) to CTH G in the Towns of Calumet, Marshfield and Taycheedah will be closed to thru traffic starting Monday, August 16, 2010 for construction. Construction is expected to last about a month, weather permitting. The Fond du Lac County Highway Commission will replace culverts and pulverize and resurface the highway. The highway will be closed to thru traffic, but open for local traffic. The highway will be detoured via CTH W, CTH WH and CTH G. For updates and more information on other County Highway construction projects, go to the Fond du Lac County Highway Construction Projects web page at http://www.fdlco.wi.gov/Index.aspx?page=1112.
8-13-10 county highway w closure
County Trunk Highway (CTH) W from CTH WH to CTH WW in the Village of Mt. Calvary and Town of Marshfield was closed to thru traffic Wednesday, July 21 for construction. Construction is expected to last about a month, weather permitting. The Fond du Lac County Highway Commission will replace culverts and guardrail, pulverize and resurface the highway. The highway is closed to thru traffic, but open for local traffic. The highway is detoured via CTH WH and CTH WW. For updates and more information on other County Highway construction projects, go to the Fond du Lac County Highway Construction Projects web page at http://www.fdlco.wi.gov/Index.aspx?page=1112. 8-13-10 fdl police department law of the month
The City of Fond du Lac Ordinance 9.05, Loitering and Prowling, addresses certain behaviors that are mostly viewed as suspicious or lending opportunity to illegal activity. In short, the ordinance applies to private and public property, streets and sidewalks, restrooms and schools. In fact, it can be used almost anywhere at any time conditions exist. In light of recent residential and commercial burglaries we need the citizens of Fond du Lac to be watchful of their neighborhoods. The Police Department frequently receives calls from citizens about suspicious persons a day or more after they are seen. Officers are frequently asked by citizens if they should call the Police Department if they see something or someone they feel is out of place. The answer is yes! And do it when you see it! The people living in an area are going to notice someone that doesn’t belong there more readily than a police officer passing through the area. Police officers do stop and question people that appear to be acting suspiciously and citations are issued for prowling and /or loitering when appropriate. The fines range from $50.00 to $208.50. At a minimum the person(s) is identified and the information recorded. By contacting and identifying these subjects we may prevent a crime or develop a suspect for crimes committed. The Police Department does not encourage citizens to approach or contact persons they feel are suspicious. Police officers have the training and equipment to address this potentially dangerous situation. Keep in mind, if it doesn’t look right call the police and help us keep you and your property safe. If it looks suspicious, call 920-906-5555. If it looks like a crime in progress, call 911. For more information on starting a FDL Watches (Neighborhood Watch) group, call (920)322-3746 or go to our web site at www.fdlpolice.com
8-13-10 fdl county sheriff's department law of the month
The Federal Highway Administration has designated the first week of August as "National Stop on Red Week" to remind motorists that obeying traffic signs and signals at intersections can be a matter of life or death. Failing to stop completely at a red light or a stop sign at an intersection is not a minor infraction. There are many complex movements at intersections with vehicles entering, crossing and exiting at different points. Add the element of drivers who disregard the traffic controls and the dangers increase significantly. During crashes at intersections, vehicles often are hit in the side where there is comparatively little protection for drivers and passengers. Whether on rural roads or city streets, intersections undoubtedly are some of the most dangerous places drivers encounter. Nationwide, approximately 20 percent of all traffic deaths each year are the result of crashes at intersections, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Failing to obey a red light, stop sign or other traffic control device at an intersection is not only dangerous-it's also expensive. According to state law, a violation for failing to stop completely for a traffic signal, sign or marking costs $175.30 with three demerit points assessed on the driver's record. Committing a second offense within a year costs $213.10 with three points. The key to preventing crashes at intersections is quite simple. Drivers must keep an alert eye on traffic moving into, through, and out of the intersection. They also must obey all traffic signals and signs. Drivers should make it a habit to stop completely on red and not race through a yellow light to beat a red light. At a yellow light, you must stop unless you're so close to the intersection that you can't stop safely.
Have a Great Summer and Be Safe!
Sheriff Mick Fink
8-13-10 heart walk
FOND DU LAC, WIS – August 12, 2010) – The Fond du Lac Start! Heart Walk, the American Heart Association’s premier community fundraising event, will celebrate its return to the area on Saturday, September 11th at Marian University. Registration begins at 8 a.m. The1 and 3 mile participant walk begins at 9 a.m. Walkers are encouraged to organize teams at the companies where they work or with family and friends. Walkers may also ask others to support their walk effort by sponsoring them with a life-saving donation to the American Heart Association. The Start! Heart Walk is designed to promote physical activity and heart-healthy living, and creates an environment that's fun and rewarding for the entire family. “The American Heart Association helps us realize that being healthier doesn’t require us to run a marathon, but simply to incorporate more steps into our days. We can easily extend our lives—and our dollars—by participating in the Fond du Lac Start! Heart Walk,” says Kori Coffeen, Start! Heart Walk Director. “Walk with friends, family, coworkers and help make our community a healthier place to live, work and play. Your heart will thank you for it.” Research funded by the American Heart Association has yielded major advances, such as the heart-lung machine, CPR/ AED, life-extending drugs, pacemakers, bypass surgery and surgical techniques to repair heart defects and save lives. For more information about the Start! Heart Walk, contact the American Heart Association at 920-562-5682 or visit www.fonddulacheartwalk.org. Sponsorship from health-conscious local businesses and organizations make the event possible. * Aurora Health Care is a local event sponsor
* Start! is sponsored nationally by SUBWAY® Restaurants
About Start!
There are four key elements to the program:
* MyStart! Online, a free, Web-based fitness and nutrition tracker, provides constant, measurable personal improvement tips.
* The Start! Fit-Friendly Companies Recognition Program recognizes employers that champion the health of their employees and work to create a culture of physical activity in the workplace.
* The Start! Walking Program has three free, downloadable walking plans for people with varying goals and fitness levels, created by experts on the American Council on Exercise.
* Start! Heart Walk, the American Heart Association’s premier fund raiser, enables people to improve their health by walking while helping fund the fight against heart disease and stroke.
