text:
Approx.3,347 sq. ft.
3 – 5 bed
3.5 – 5 bath
2 -car garage
3 story
Available exclusively at Madison Crescent, this three-story townhome offers a two-car garage, spacious rec room, bedroom and full bath on the lower level. Upstairs, on the main floor, you'll find an open great room, kitchen and dining area, as well as a private study, powder room, convenient laundry and large walk-in pantry. Each of the top-floor bedrooms has its own walk-in closet and full bath, and the adjacent loft has a powder room and storage closet as well. Gourmet kitchen options, additional bedrooms and deluxe bath features are available.
- GE® stainless-steel appliance package
- Maple kitchen cabinetry
- Granite countertops in the kitchen
- 12" x 12" tile bathroom flooring
- Brick front exterior
- Backyard deck
- Main-level hardwood floors
Estimated Monthly Payment$*
30-year fixed-rate loan
Mortgage products provided by:
*Taxes, hazard insurance premiums and monthly mortgage insurance premiums are not calculated in the above payment and actual payment will be higher.
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This plan's projected
HERS® Index = *
Projected Rating Based on Plans – Field Confirmation Required
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How does this floor plan rate?
Take a look:
130 = Typical existing home++
100 = Reference home+++
The lower the number, the better! Refer to the RESNET® HERS index brochure or go to www.RESNET.us for details.
What's a HERS® Index?
HERS stands for Home Energy Rating System, a system created by RESNET® to measure home energy efficiency.^
A Projected HERS index or rating is a computer simulation performed prior to construction by a third-party HERS rater using RESNET-accredited rating software, rated feature and specification data derived from home plans, features and specifications, and other data selected or assumed by the rater. The projected HERS index is approximate and is subject to change without notice. Actual results will vary.
*This information is presented for education purposes only. The HERS index for a confirmed rating will be determined by a third-party HERS rater based on data gathered from on-site observations and, if required, testing of rated features for a home as featured, optioned, located, oriented and/or built.
++Typical existing home is based on the U.S. Department of Energy definition with a HERS® index of 130. It is no guarantee that energy efficiencies will be achieved.
+++Reference home is based on the RESNET® Reference Home definition with a HERS® index of 100 (based on the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code).
^RESNET® has developed the HERS® index to indicate the comparative efficiencies of homes. It is no guarantee that energy efficiencies will be achieved.
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Clinton man accused of attempted murder freed
JANESVILLE—A man who repeatedly pulled the trigger of a handgun aimed at a police officer was freed Wednesday and allowed to return to his home in Clinton.
Terrance P. Robinson, 59, of 703 Carol St., Apt. K, Clinton, will have an electronic monitoring device strapped to his ankle. He will get daily visits from people who will help him take his medications.
Doctors believe those medications will keep him from being a danger to himself and others, but he could become dangerous again if he stops taking them, and that's what worries Dave Hooker, the officer he tried to kill last May.
Robinson had grabbed Hooker's sidearm during a scuffle in Robinson's apartment and pulled the trigger with the barrel about an inch from Hooker's chest.
Hooker grabbed the gun and pushed the slide back far enough to keep it from firing, according to the criminal complaint.
Hooker's voice wavered with emotion as he spoke in Rock County Court on Wednesday.
"I have concerns about him coming back. I have concerns for the safety of the community and the people around him," Hooker said.
Hooker was recently named Clinton's police chief, so he told Judge James Daley that he also is worried for the safety of his officers and firefighters, should they be called to Robinson's home.
Hooker said after the hearing he will create a protocol that requires no officer visit the Robinson home alone and that emergency responders not enter without police protection.
District Attorney David O'Leary and Daley both expressed concern, but they were bound by the civil-commitment requirements of state law.
The case ceased to be a criminal matter when Daley found Robinson not guilty of attempted murder, by reason of mental disease or defect.
"Because we are dealing with treatment of a mental illness and not punishment for a crime, the court must use the least restrictive placement appropriate," O'Leary said in an email after the hearing.
"In this case, all of the medical professionals and Lutheran Social Services, whom the state contracts with to provide supervision of (not-guilty by reason of insanity) defendants, were of the opinion that he could be safely supervised in the community," O'Leary wrote.�
Robinson has been diagnosed as schizophrenic/bipolar.
Daley said he received reports that Robinson had been very compliant while in custody.
"We just have to make sure he stays that way," Daley said. "… The risk to the community will be minimized to the extent it can be."
Robinson worked at Regal Beloit for 35 years, and his wife said the company is interested in hiring him again, defense attorney Walter Isaacson told the court.
Daley read off a long list of conditions for Robinson's release, including:
-- No contact with firearms.
-- No alcohol, and staying out of any place whose main purpose is selling alcohol.
-- Frequent visits from a social worker and case officer.
-- Urinalysis, at least once a week.
-- No travel outside Wisconsin. No travel outside Rock County without approval.
-- Contribute to the costs of his treatment, to the extent he can pay.
Daley warned Robinson that if he violated the conditions, the court would order him to in-patient treatment.
"You understand that?" Daley asked at several junctures.
"Yes, sir," Robinson responded each time.
"In a perfect world, no one would have anything to worry about," Daley said, noting the precautions that are being taken. "Problem is, this is not a perfect world."

subset: commoncrawl


text: Each patient's experience at our practice is important to us. As we strive to provide the highest level of care, we value feedback on all aspects of the patient experience. This patient experience survey measures patient satisfaction from the time the appointment was made to the time the patient spent with the provider.


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Speeches set about "Death Beyond the Willows"
The newly revised edition of my nonfiction book, "Death Beyond the Willows," debuted in December, but it has taken a few months to arrange speaking engagements. Those are coming together. I have one set for each of the next three months, starting next week Friday in Beloit.
I'll be speaking about and signing copies of my book at 9 a.m. Friday, April 25, at Grinnell Hall, 631 Bluff St., Beloit. My talk at this senior center is open to the public.
Here's a brief recap of this book of rural history: In 1927, Johnny Pirkl, a handsome young farmer from a large family in my hometown of Marshall, proposed to Hazel Ferguson, only child to a farm family from nearby Cottage Grove. Her parents objected because Johnny was Catholic and Hazel was not. What followed this clash of religions was a shocking wedding-night tragedy in Portage that made national news and left both families grieving for decades. During my years of research, I discovered several twists tied to this clash over faith that helped carry the story to a conclusion.
My book debuted in 2005, and I re-edited this edition and added updates and fresh graphics, including a new cover designed by Gazette colleague Tony DiNicola. An Afterword tells how the book inspired bus tours of key sites and of stunning coincidental stories that emerged and brought this rich history full circle.
On Saturday, May 3, I'll be at the first-ever Authors Showcase organized by the Wisconsin Writers Association at the Days Inn Conference Center, French Island, in La Crosse. I'm a member of the association's board of directors, and we're lining up a growing number of writers from Wisconsin, Minnesota and across the northern Midwest.
Our nonprofit association, the longest-serving volunteer organization for writers in the state, is hosting this Authors Showcase as the focal point of our two-day spring conference. The showcase is open to the public without charge from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. that Saturday.
The Authors Showcase is a chance for writers to meet the book-buying public. Individual display space can be reserved for a modest $20, and authors can sign up for time on our open microphone schedule. I plan to do that and will explain my arduous route to initial publication and then republication.
To register, go to the WWA website and click on Conferences in the menu, then Spring Conference. Display space is limited. Contact Dave Rank, WWA president, email@example.com, for more information.
At 10 a.m. Saturday, June 28, I'll be back in my hometown, the village of Marshall in Dane County, to speak about my book at the Marshall Public Library. My appearance is being organized by the Marshall Area Historical Society. That's fitting because this is the community where the vast majority of the story behind "Death Beyond the Willows" unfolded. Given that this will be my third speech about the book in Marshall, I've crafted a talk, titled "Tales from the Archives of 'Death Beyond the Willows.'" I will present more rich, rural history, true stories that did not make it into my book. Some will be funny, some will be sad—much like the stories in my book.
I hope some of you can join me at one or more of these three events. Each talk will be quite different, tailored to each particular audience.
"Death Beyond the Willows" sells for $16.95. Signed copies are available at Book World in Janesville. You can order it at amazon.com. Feel free to contact me at The Gazette if you're interested in buying a copy with a personalized signature.
Greg Peck can be reached at (608) 755-8278 or firstname.lastname@example.com. Or follow him on Twitter or Facebook.
Greg Peck can be reached at (608) 755-8278 or firstname.lastname@example.com. Or follow him on Twitter or Facebook.


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Plan would boost Janesville high schools' administrative staff
JANESVILLE—The Janesville School District would add a dean at Craig and Parker high schools this month if the school board approves when it meets Tuesday.
Each high school lost an assistant principal as part of budget cuts after a loss of state funding in 2011. The deans of students would take on some but not all of the duties of an assistant principal, according to a memo the board will consider Tuesday.
The positions' combined cost would be $38,000 if two current teachers are chosen for the jobs. The money would pay $32,000 for two substitute teachers to take over the deans' former duties and $3,000 stipends to the deans, in addition to their regular pay.
The money would come from the $265,000 approved in this year's budget for new positions, the memo indicates.
The positions would be assessed at the end of the school year to determine whether they would continue next fall, the memo indicates.
Each high school now has one principal and two assistant principals.
The deans would handle student discipline, which would free up principals and assistant principals, who now are being kept from the vital role of improving academic achievement by daily discipline problems, the memo states.
The schools need the help even though enrollment has been stagnant or falling, according to the memo, written by Superintendent Karen Schulte.
Craig's enrollment increased from 1,633 to 1,644 over the past four years, while Parker's has dropped from 1,511 to 1,358.
Schulte argues that even though enrollment has fallen at Parker, the needs have increased. She notes that the proportion of low-income students has increased from 31 percent in 2008-09 to 49 percent today.
"The increase in poverty and the situations that arise because of it are often in need of intervention by administration," Schulte wrote.
At Craig, low-income students make up 36 percent of enrollment this year.
"With one less administrator, the high schools have fewer people to supervise the halls, lunches, arrival, departure, and school events," Schulte wrote. "Additionally, the principal has taken on more disciplinary work than was previously the case."
The goal of adding the deans is to reduce disciplinary referrals and the truancy rate, the memo says.
"A dean of students at each high school will result in improved hallway behavior, classroom behavior and cafeteria behavior," Schulte wrote. "A reduction in student incidents will transfer to increased time on task in the classroom and an increased staff, student, and parent satisfaction."
The new deans should have "at least enough training as administrators so they are familiar with school law, state statutes and other requirements pertaining to students and parents," according to the memo.


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Kelvyn Park
4438 W. Wrightwood Ave. Chicago, Illinois 60639
(312) 742-7547
Fee: Free
Age Range: Any
Featured activities at Kelvyn: 3pm Lawn games; Art project: Sailboats 4pm Kaotic Drum Line, interactive performance 5pm Music workshop with MEMA - Music, Inc and 7:30pm The Spellbinder magic show and Fandango Latin performances.
The Night Out in the Parks series will make parks a safe haven and a hub of positive activity on summer evenings and weekends. We encourage community members to bring their family and friends, pack a picnic basket and spend the day with us in the park. Planned activities may include art projects, music, dance, drum circle, theatre, a magic show or other fun-filled activities.


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Manure spraying ordinances vary in Rock and Walworth counties
JANESVILLE—Center pivot manure spraying became an issue in Rock County in 2011.
At the time, Nebraska dairy farmer Todd Tuls was building a 5,000-cow dairy in the town of Bradford. He and his son, TJ Tuls, were interested in using the practice to spread manure.
They decided not to use the practice and instead now spread manure in the traditional fashion.
The discussion raised the issue of center-pivot manure spraying, however, and prompted the town of Harmony to pass an ordinance banning its use. About the same time, the town of Johnstown voted to regulate it, too.
The town of Bradford considered an ordinance to ban center pivot manure spraying, but the ordinance was tabled.
Rock County's towns have treated the issue differently, Rock County Senior Conservation Specialist Norm Tadt said. For some towns, the issue hasn't come up.
Town of Magnolia Chairwoman Fern McCoy said the issue hadn't been discussed by the Magnolia Town Board. The town is home to Larson Acres, a 5,000-cow dairy.
In Walworth County, the county oversees zoning and has banned the use of such sprayers, Tadt said.
The topic of aerial spraying of manure is being studied by universities across the country and by agencies such as the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The UW Extension hosts the Midwest Manure Summit every year, and manure spraying always is a topic.
"This is a huge issue nationwide," Tadt said. "One of the things they're looking at is airborne pathogens."
Systems are being developed that would increase the size of the manure droplets to decrease the aerosolization. In addition, they're looking at low pressure emitters to reduce or eliminate drift, Tadt said.


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For Pedro Hernandez, a striking elementary-school teacher from the southern state of Oaxaca, his union's protests disrupting Mexico's capital aren't just about education. They're about stopping President Enrique Pena Nieto.
"We're against all the structural reforms," the 37-year-old said last week as he walked down Mexico City's central boulevard as part of an organized march of 15,000. Hernandez held a sign that read "Mexico has no president."
The demonstrations, which persuaded Mexican lawmakers to delay votes on education-reform legislation that would have subjected teachers to standardized evaluations, are a sign to Barclays Plc that Pena Nieto may struggle to push through his energy and tax-law plans without modification.
Opposition to those pledges, which carried him to victory in July 2012, is also undermining confidence in Mexico's economy that led foreign investors such as Pacific Investment Management Co. (Pimco) to increase bond holdings to a record this year.
Yields on Mexico's peso-denominated bonds due in 2024 have climbed 1.93 percentage points from a record low on May 9, losing 18 percent in dollar terms over the period compared with 10 percent average drop across emerging markets. Dollar-based losses were exacerbated by a local currency that slid 4.8 percent against the dollar in August, the most in Latin America.
"The education reform shows that it's not going to be easy for the government to pass other reforms that hurt certain political groups or interests," Marco Oviedo, chief Mexico economist at Barclays, said in a telephone interview from the country's capital. "It's not going to be a picnic."
Foreign holdings of Mexico's fixed-rate bonds surged to a record 1.16 trillion pesos ($87 billion) in May after Pena Nieto worked with rival parties to craft constitutional changes that led to the education bill. He also signed telecommunications legislation meant to boost competition and foreign investment in the industry.
Barclays said last month that the president's proposal to break the state oil company's 75-year monopoly on drilling in the country would attract investment, potentially adding 1.5 percentage points to Mexico's potential economic growth.
Pimco, the world's biggest bond fund manager, is the biggest holder of Mexico benchmark peso-denominated bonds due in 2024, according to filings data compiled by Bloomberg. Officials in Pimco's press office didn't respond to an e-mailed request for comment on whether the teacher protests were impacting the company's outlook on Mexican debt.
'All Instruments'
Pena Nieto said yesterday in the annual presidential address to the nation that he "knew beforehand that to achieve great transformation in Mexico would be complicated.
"I'm determined to use all instruments of a democratic state to promote the transformation that the majority of Mexicans demand," the 47-year old former governor said in a tent pitched on a lawn outside the presidential mansion. As he spoke, synchronized videos of oil rigs and power plants played on overhead screens.
Over the past two weeks in Mexico City, the protesters set up a tent city in the capital's main square, blocked access to Mexico City's airport long enough to delay as many as 60 flights, and amassed outside Congressional chambers, forcing legislators to meet at alternate sites.
The strain on police resources also caused a professional soccer game to be postponed, the daily Reforma reported last week on its website. Pena Nieto's government cited protesting teachers as a reason the president pushed off his state of the union speech to yesterday from Sept. 1.
After rescheduling last month's education vote until later this week, Mexico's lower house of Congress on Sept. 1 accelerated the tally to that night. The bill passed with 390 votes in favor and 69 against.
"The new government is going to have to show here if it really has authority and sufficient power to pass all of these reforms," Araceli Espinosa, a fixed-income analyst at the local unit of Scotiabank. "This moment is very, very important."
The teachers will join protests against Pena Nieto's oil industry reform proposal that Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, the runner-up in last year's presidential race, has scheduled for Sept. 8, according to Inesimo Pelaez, an organizer of the recent marches.
"We could block banks, toll booths or airports," Pelaez said in an Aug. 28 interview.
'Natural Reaction'
Alejandro Diaz de Leon, who oversees government bond sales as head of public debt at the Finance Ministry, said the scale of the demonstrations is "a natural reaction and reflects the reach of reforms.
"This is a proposal that changes the status quo, and this could generate a certain inconvenience for some groups and a certain optimism and encouragement for others," he said in a telephone interview on Aug. 30. "In the short term there could be tension, protests and disruptions."
Edwin Gutierrez, a fund manager who helps invest about $10 billion of emerging-market debt including Mexico government bonds at Aberdeen Asset Management Plc, says the education protests are little more than a sideshow.
"The whole focus remains very much on what's going on [with] energy reform," Gutierrez said by phone from London. "As long as they push forward with the schedule that they have, the market's happy."
The extra yield investors demand to hold Mexican government dollar bonds instead of U.S. Treasuries fell seven basis points to 215 basis points at 10:52 a.m. in New York, according to JPMorgan Chase & Co.'s EMBI Global Diversified index.
Mexico's five-year credit default swaps, contracts that protect holders of the nation's debt from non-payment, rose three basis points to 135 basis points, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Mexico's peso slid 0.9 percent to 13.4496 per dollar.
Hernandez, the striking teacher, says the reforms "are damaging our country," and that Pena Nieto "is stomping on" Mexico through legal changes that won't benefit the poor. He's a local precinct secretary general for the teacher's union CNTE, which is leading the demonstrations.
Barclays's Oviedo today is hosting an investor conference in Mexico City on the reforms. The risks posed by demonstrations is on the agenda, he said.
"There's a probability again to see protests of different groups that are opposed to" energy reforms that involve constitutional changes as Pena Nieto has proposed, Oviedo said in the interview. "That is the next test for the government."


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Even after historic '12, A's system in good shape
Russell, Straily, Choice, Green sit atop club's top prospect rankings for '13 season
By Evan Drellich / MLB.com
The future success of every Major League team lies largely in its Minor League pipeline. With that in mind, MLB.com is looking at each team's farm system, from the top 20 prospects to under the radar types.
Somehow, the feeder system that produced one of the best rookie-powered teams ever is still in prime shape a season later.
"It's better going into 2013 Spring Training when you think about what took place in the Draft and the performance of some of those players after being able to look at them a little more, be around them," A's special advisor Grady Fuson said. "I think everybody feels better about the bottom end of the system and where those guys are going to be graduating to than we actually did a year ago. It was a great coup last year. We had a handful of guys that were young and talented and played well and have passion for the game."
There were 19 of those young and talented rookies used during the season by the American League West champs, to be exact. They became the first group of rookies to reach an unconventional 50-50 season: wins (54) and home runs (56). That win total is a Major League record.
Shortstop Addison Russell, the top A's prospect on MLB.com's list of 20, is going to receive attention as long as he's in Major League camp. But he's not going to be the poster boy of a repeat run up top. Not this year.
Giving an invite to a 19-year-old in his first professional Spring Training could go against some conventional logic, but everything Russell has shown to this point is that he can handle it. What's wrong with a taste?
"A lot of things can go a little wrong and all of a sudden they don't look good, they don't play well," Fuson said. "They're nervous, sometimes you get a little bad rap. But in this kid's case, let's face it. This kid played for three months and hit three different levels of baseball and not one part of the game really stopped him much, and instructional league was another case of just kind of walking through that whole camp -- practicing well, performing well.
"He possibly could be a player on the quick come and he's polished enough and poised enough to go through a big league camp and handle it, get exposed to some other people in the organization that haven't been around."
Right-hander Dan Straily (No. 2), second baseman Grant Green (No. 4) and righty Sonny Gray (No. 6), meanwhile, are all in the mix this season, even if they aren't on the 25-man roster out of camp. Gray could be more of a midseason call-up.
Straily, 24, made it up for seven starts and a 3.89 ERA last year at the big-league level.
"Between [A.J.] Griffin and Straily, one of those guys hopefully sticks on the club, if not both of them," Fuson said.
Green, who has bounced between positions, is a middle infielder by trade, although this will be his first full Spring Training at second. Jed Lowrie, Scott Sizemore and Jemile Weeks could make it tough for Green to get playing time, but Fuson said he's "going to get every opportunity." Being able to play multiple positions including the outfield, could help the 25-year-old and 2009 first-rounder get some playing time.
Top 20 prospects
The No. 3 prospect in the A's system, 23-year-old outfielder Michael Choice, perhaps could have been in the mix this year, had he not suffered a broken thumb at Double-A Midland, and if the A's outfield situation weren't so crowded in the first place. The 2010 first-rounder should be 100 percent by the time camp opens, and figures to go to Triple-A Sacramento.
Josh Reddick's 2012 season already made the Andrew Bailey trade look great, but the two prospects the A's got in the deal, third baseman Miles Head (No. 9) and right-hander Raul Alcantara (No. 11) could make that deal even sweeter.
Head, 21, is at third base, and might not be in ideal shape, but he can hit: he nearly won the organizational triple crown, topping the farm system in batting average (.333) and RBIs (84) while finishing second in home runs (23).
"He's one of those Barney Rubble guys who certainly doesn't look the part of a Major League player," Fuson said. "But talent-wise, this guy can jump the ball out of any ballpark. He loves to play, he's got the same demeanor every day. He's learning the little technical fundamental things at third base -- footwork, throwing slots. But he's got a knack for slapping leather to a baseball, whether he's at third or first. He's a legit offensive type of guy."
Alcantara, 20, still needs work on his secondary stuff. But with a fastball that tops at 93, he could be a strong Major League starter if he puts it together.
Still on the list is outfielder Michael Taylor at No. 12. Despite being 27 years old, Taylor's had only 56 Major League plate appearances between the last two seasons.
The last prospect and fourth third baseman on the list, Jefrey Marte, came over from the Mets for Collin Cowgill in an offseason trade. Marte, 21, crushed left-handed pitching (.336/.390/.560) last season at Double-A.
athletics' top prospects
|Addison Russell
|Dan Straily
|Michael Choice
|Grant Green
|Matthew Olson
Under the Radar
Josh Bowman, a 24-year-old righty and 10th rounder in 2010, spent almost the entire year at High-A Stockton and had a 3.62 ERA and 127 innings in 146 2/3 innings. He got a taste of Midland for one start.
Righty Murphy Smith doesn't have overpowering stuff, but the 25-year-old had a 2.66 ERA in April and a 3.23 ERA in May last season at Midland. Some work on his delivery may help his consistency as a strike thrower.
"I for one have always been a Murphy Smith fan," Fuson said. "He just needs to locate the baseball better to be more efficient."
Sean Murphy, 24, saw his changeup take off in 2012 and had a 1.97 ERA in eight starts at Midland.
Hitter of the Year: Head
Head's value is fully attached to his bat, and he can hit all-around, with discipline to boot. He had a .391 on-base percentage between two stops.
Pitcher of the Year: Gray
As a first-rounder in 2011, Gray has the raw stuff to dominate, and this will be his second season at the upper levels -- if he doesn't get called up.
Evan Drellich is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @EvanDrellich. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Brent Fox to succeed Diane Hendricks as CEO of Hendricks Holding
BELOIT—Brent Fox was named Thursday to succeed Diane Hendricks as chief executive officer of Hendricks Holding Co., a Beloit-based investment and business development group.
Fox, who is Hendricks' son, also was elected to the board of directors of ABC Supply, one of the nation's largest building products distributors.
A 30-year veteran of ABC Supply, Fox served as the company's vice president of national business development since 2011. Hendricks will continue to serve as chair of the company's board of directors.
Hendricks owns both ABC Supply and Hendricks Holding Co., which has a portfolio of 22 companies in a wide array of business sectors around the world.
"Throughout his career at ABC Supply, Brent has welcomed new challenges, accepted positions of increasing responsibility and achieved outstanding results," said Hendricks, who also is chair and co-founder of ABC Supply. "That experience has prepared him well for these new roles, and I am confident that he will be a success in both."
David Luck, ABC's chief executive officer, said Fox would be a welcome addition to his company's board.
"We're delighted that we will continue to benefit from his experience, insight and perspective," Luck said in a news release.
Fox began his career with ABC Supply in 1983 as a truck driver and held a variety of branch positions before being promoted to branch manager in 1989. He joined the company's National Support Center staff in 1994, serving as fleet manager, director of merchandising and purchasing, vice president of merchandising and purchasing, vice president of divisional operations and, ultimately, vice president of national business development.
A Janesville resident, Fox was elected to the Rock County Board in 2010 and re-elected in 2012.
He has served on the boards of a variety of community organizations, including Southern Wisconsin AirFest, the Janesville Performing Arts Center, the Wisconsin Aviation Academy and the city of Janesville Zoning Board of Appeals.


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Tigers team to beat in AL Central, but foes await
Indians, White Sox, Royals have eyes on Detroit for top spot in AL Central
By Anthony Castrovince / MLB.com
LAKELAND, Fla. -- Word was spreading of the Indians' signing of Michael Bourn last week just as the Tigers were getting ready for their first official workout of the spring. And though this was a day reserved merely for some pitchers' fielding practices and bullpen sessions, the competitive instincts kicked in.
"They gotta do better than Michael Bourn," said a smiling Victor Martinez, before gesturing toward catcher Alex Avila. "We've got some policemen who give tickets to people who go from first to second!"
If the Tigers are confident about their ability to defend not only second base but also their American League Central title, they have every right to be. They return a robust rotation and a lineup bolstered by the return of Martinez and the addition of Torii Hunter. When the predictions for 2013 start rolling in en masse, they will once again be the consensus favorite to win the division crown, just as they were a year ago.
Want an early read on those predictions? Check out Baseball Prospectus' Playoff Odds Report, which gives the Tigers a 73.8-percent chance of winning the Central -- by far the highest such percentage of any team in the game. BP's forecast has the Tigers running away with the division by nine games. PECOTA's projection has them winning it by 12.
So ... nothing to see here?
Let's not be silly.
Last year, the Tigers were in a similar situation in the wake of the Prince Fielder signing. And while the season was ultimately rather satisfying (save for that World Series sweep, of course), the postseason run had a way of masking the memory of the regular-season struggle to live up to the hefty hype. The Tigers found themselves in a mid-September dead heat with a White Sox team that exceeded expectations. And an argument can be made that the White Sox, winners of just four of the season's final 15 games, did more to cough up the division in the home stretch than the Tigers did to claim it.
Careful, then, with the assumptions about the Central, as we embark upon 2013. The Tigers are clear favorites to fly another division flag, but that doesn't mean the other clubs are flying white ones just yet. Their goal, of course, is to close the gap.
"I don't think there's any question the Tigers will be favored on paper," Twins general manager Terry Ryan said. "But the Royals have done quite a bit, the Indians have done quite a bit, the White Sox were competitive for about five and a half months last year. This division has improved, and there's a lot of optimism in a few towns here, I know that."
Where is that optimism most justified?
Well, the BP and PECOTA projections see the greatest gains coming in Cleveland. The Indians lost 94 games last season, thanks in no small measure to an abysmal August that saw them go 5-24. So much needed to change, and so much has changed in the time since, and the changes are enough to grant the Indians a 12-game improvement, according to PECOTA, and a baker's dozen upgrade according to BP.
Certainly, you have to like the improvement that comes with a two-time World Series-winning manager (Terry Francona) in the dugout and $104 million worth of monetary commitments to outfielders Nick Swisher and Bourn -- a level of free-agent expenditure the organization has simply never achieved previously. The Tribe is also taking fliers on Mark Reynolds and Drew Stubbs, and highly touted pitching prospect Trevor Bauer should be injected into the rotation by year's end.
The Indians are banking, quite literally, on a revamped roster, improved clubhouse culture and stellar outfield defensive alignment overcoming the potential ails of a suspect starting staff led by Justin Masterson, Ubaldo Jimenez and starter-turned-reliever-turned-starter Brett Myers. It's a rotation that certainly pales in comparison to that of the Tigers, but the speed and power in the offense is intriguing, and Francona's club could be frisky.
Not that Francona is proclaiming his club ready to tackle the Tigers.
"That's almost disrespectful to the Tigers," he said. "They've been there and done it. What we need to do is get ready for Spring Training, and then get ready for the year. There's a progression and [you can't] forget about that progression. Nothing has changed in my mind."
Frankly, not much changed with the White Sox in the winter months, and the lack of prominent player movement undoubtedly influenced the BP and PECOTA projections, which both see the White Sox taking a step back in the standings. Neither has the Sox finishing above .500.
However, that could be a particularly faulty forecast if history is any indication. As Mark Gonzalez of the Chicago Tribune pointed out recently, the Sox significantly outperformed their PECOTA projection in six of the past eight seasons.
To do it again, they'll need, first and foremost, continued health from both Chris Sale, who saw his innings workload increase by more than 120 from 2011 to '12, and Jake Peavy, whose reconstructed shoulder will always be a worry. They'll need a similarly stable shoulder from John Danks, who pitched just 50 innings last year. And they'll need Jose Quintana and Hector Santiago to avoid sophomore setbacks.
That might be a lot to ask. Especially when you consider the backloaded contract budget crunch that limited the Sox to just one "prominent" offseason acquisition (third baseman Jeff Keppinger), with longtime catcher A.J. Pierzynski and midseason hired hands Kevin Youkilis, Francisco Liriano and Myers all departing.
Much pressure, then, falls at the feet of Paul Konerko, Adam Dunn, Alex Rios, Alexei Ramirez, Gordon Beckham and Dayan Viciedo. The Sox, as a unit, overachieved last season, and -- on paper, at least -- it appears they'll have to do so again.
The team that could really be in a position to rise is the Royals. But they are fundamentally the hardest AL Central club to put predictions on, simply because their lineup has so much youth and upside but so little in the way of track record.
Eric Hosmer was abysmal last season, and shockingly so. But he remains a tantalizing talent, as do catcher Salvador Perez, shortstop Alcides Escobar, third baseman Mike Moustakas and center fielder Lorenzo Cain.
That group could pair with the established Billy Butler and Alex Gordon to give the Royals an elite offense, along with what could be an elite bullpen. And those if-comes were enough to compel Dayton Moore to bet the farm -- namely, top position prospect Wil Myers -- and the finances on a rotation that now will feature James Shields, Jeremy Guthrie, Ervin Santana and Wade Davis. But while Shields is prone to 200-inning output, Guthrie made strides last season and Santana has shown flashes of brilliance in the past, suffice to say that's a pretty big gamble.
"I'm not one that's going to sit here on the sidelines and predict what's going to happen," Moustakas said, "but we've got a pretty good group of guys, and it's going to be a lot of fun to watch things fall into place."
Clearly, these clubs are not conceding the division to Detroit. Even the Twins, losers of 96 and 99 games the past two years, could be a little more feisty with a revamped rotation.
For now, the advanced calculations have the Tigers out in front for a reason. But we certainly have our own reasons for not taking those numbers as gospel.
"I know how this stuff works," Jim Leyland said. "I've seen a lot of teams be declared champions in February, then sit home in October."
Anthony Castrovince is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his columns and follow him on Twitter at @Castrovince. Jason Beck, Scott Merkin, Jordan Bastian and Dick Kaegel contributed. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Investigation ongoing in Zenda school bus crash
ZENDA—An accident involving a school bus and a pickup truck at the intersection of County Highway B and Zenda Road in Zenda Friday remains under investigation by the Wisconsin State Patrol.
The accident occurred about 12:30 p.m. Jan. 10 when a school bus traveling north on Zenda Road failed to yield the right of way to a white pickup truck traveling westbound on County Highway B.
Sgt. James Bushey of the Town of Linn Police Department said initial questioning of the school bus driver, Douglas E. Billings of Elkhorn, and the truck driver, Scott S. Aubin of Lake Geneva, indicated that Billings may not have seen Aubin's white truck because of patchy fog that day.
Although responders found no signs of serious injury among the 17 students from Reek Elementary School in Linn aboard the bus, seven children were transported by ambulance to Aurora Lakeland Medical Center in Elkhorn as a precaution. The other children were taken back to school.����
Billings and Aubin were also taken to the hospital, but both were released later that day. Bushey said neither driver was seriously injured.
No charges will be issued until the investigation is completed, Bushey said.
Both the Walworth County Sheriff's Office and the Wisconsin State Patrol's inspectors and reconstruction unit aided the Linn Police Department at the scene of the accident.


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Been a member since 2008. Learned so much and made some wonderful friends along the way! Enjoy each day, it is a gift. Happy Shooting. Visit my gallery at 2-donna-kennedy.pixels.com All my photographs on this web site are fully protected by U.S. and international copyright laws, all rights reserved. The images may not be copied, reproduced, manipulated or used in any way, without written permission from the photographer, Donna Kennedy
Foggy Sunrise
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Thursday December 6, 2012
Reno, NV (Current Weather Conditions)
Caption: Unusual heavy fog this morning
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Eurail Denmark Pass
Frequently Asked Questions about Eurail Denmark Pass
Do I need to buy a reservation if I already have a rail pass? How do I book one?
Reservations are important to understand, especially when traveling with a rail pass. We have a whole article on the subject that you can read here.
When traveling with a rail pass, a reservation is a separate document that guarantees you an assigned accommodation on a specific train. In other words, if you miss that train, you cannot transfer the reservation to another.
Why would you need a reservation when you already have a pass? Because there are three types of trains running in Europe, and they each have their own rules. There are trains that require all travelers, including rail pass holders, to have a reservation (labeled "reservation required" in our reservation booking engine), trains that do not require rail pass holders to have a reservation but do offer reserved seating (labeled "reservation recommended"), and trains that do not require a reservation and, in fact, cannot be reserved (labeled "non reservable"). All night trains require reservations.
Whether you need a reservation or not depends on three things: the country you're in, the type of train you're taking, and the policy of the rail carrier operating your train. In fact, you may find that on the same route, you have a choice between trains that require pass holders to purchase a seat reservation and trains that are non-reservable. So, know your choices. Find out whether the train you'll be taking is "Reservation Required", "Reservation Recommended" or "Non-Reservable". You'll find this information is provided for every train listed when you search for trains in our reservation booking tool.
Of course, you can always "wing it" and book the reservations "as you go" at train stations in Europe. But know that some trains are fully booked far in advance, especially during peak travel periods. And some train companies make only some seats available for pass holders. If your itinerary is firm, it's always better to have a sure thing and book your reservation in advance.
Here's a list of trains that require travelers with a rail pass to buy a seat reservation as well:
- In Belgium/France/Germany/the Netherlands: Thalys
- In France: TGV and some Intercités day and night trains
- In Germany: ICE Sprinter
- In Britain/France/Belgium: Eurostar
- In Greece: InterCity Express
- In Italy: Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca, IC and EC
- In Portugal: AP and IC
- In Switzerland: Glacier Express, GoldenPass, Bernina Express, Chocolate Train, Wilhelm Tell Express
- In Spain: AVE, Euromed, Alvia, Altaria, Alvia, Arco, Avant, Diurno, Estrella, Talgo and Trenhotel
- In Sweden: all SJ High Speed and night trains, and through journeys to Copenhagen
- In Finland: Allegro and Tolstoy
Your rail pass is not valid for travel on the Italo trains within Italy or the Thello trains between France and Italy servicing such cities as Paris to Milan, Florence or Rome. You'll need to purchase a train ticket for travel on these trains. And you will not have to add this date to your rail pass.
Make sure to read more about seat reservations and browse the reservation section of our FAQ's to learn more.
Can I travel with my rail pass on all high-speed trains?
Your rail pass is not valid for travel on the Italo trains within Italy or the Thello trains between France and Italy servicing such cities as Paris to Milan, Florence or Rome. You'll need to purchase a train ticket for travel on these trains. And you will not have to add this date to your rail pass.
Do I need to book a rail pass for everyone in my traveling party, including children and infants?
You will need to book a rail pass for each adult and child. In the case of a saver pass, it's one rail pass with each name listed on the pass. A child under 4 years of age and sharing a seat with an adult does not need to book a rail pass. If the child will occupy his/her own seat, a rail pass must be purchased for them, as well as a reservation when needed.
Can a rail pass be issued as an e-ticket or e-pass?
At this time, most rail passes are printed as a paper document and must be shipped to you prior to your departure to Europe. If a rail pass is offered as an e-pass this option will be offered at the time of booking.
How far in advance can I buy my rail pass?
A rail pass can be purchased anywhere from 6 to 11 months prior to your first travel day. (This will vary depending on your rail pass please check specific conditions of use) The only requirement is that the pass be activated (stamped by a railroad official) within the 6 or 11 months (whichever is applicable) of the original date of issue. Then your rail pass will be good for its full validity period (usually two months).
Are there discounts available for rail passes?
Yes, many rail passes offer discounted options. The most common discounts are:
- Child discount: Children between 4 -11 years of age usually travel for half the price of the regular adult rate. Most Eurail passes offer free travel for up to two children per adult pass holder.
- Youth Discount: If you or anyone in your party is a traveler between 12 – 28 years of age on the first date of travel, discounted rates are available for certain rail passes. These Youth Passes dependent on availability within the specific country of travel.
- Senior Discount: Seniors over the age of 60 are eligible for a discounted rate on certain rail passes. These senior rates are generally on first class travel only.
- Saver Discount: Small groups of 2 to 5 people traveling together are eligible for savings of about 15% on certain rail passes offering the Saver option. In case of a group of six travelers, two Saver Passes may be issued for three travelers each. To sweeten the deal further, children receive an even greater discount on their portion of the Saver pass. The only rule is that the same travel days are applicable to all travelers in the party. In other words, if someone in your traveling party doesn't travel on a day when the rest of the party is traveling, he or she cannot recuperate this travel day- it is considered used for all travelers on the rail pass.
- Group Discount: If you travel in a party of 10 or more, see our special group offers for a more customized travel solution. Rail Europe always ensures that you get the most cost effective pass to suit your needs. To do so, we ask you to enter the details of your traveling party at the time of requesting a quote. You may also have to enter the age of certain travelers, so we can determine whether they're eligible for certain age-related discounts.
Please note, not all rail passes have Child, Youth, Senior or Saver discounts available. When entering traveler information, include the correct ages of all and our system will advise on relevant discounts available.
What do I do if my train goes through a country not listed on my rail pass?
If your train travels through a country not listed on your rail pass, even though the country of origin and country of arrival are covered by your rail pass, you need to purchase a ticket for the uncovered portion of the journey. We suggest doing this at a ticket counter in advance, since tickets on the train will be more expensive.
For example, you have a Eurail Select Pass covering Italy, Switzerland, France and Germany and you want to take the train from Munich, Germany to Venice, Italy. The most direct train route for this trip will travel through Austria. In this instance, you will need to purchase a ticket from the Germany/Austria border city to the Austria/Italy border city as travel through Austria is not covered. You don't need to buy a ticket for the entire journey, just the section not covered by the purchased rail pass.
Share Questions, Answers & Tips
Join Rail Europe staff and other travelers on our new Support Community to interact and share information and tips about European rail travel and more.


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An excerpt from www.HouseOfNames.com archives copyright © 2000 - 2017
Vaucelles Early Origins
Normandy (French: Normandie), the former Duchy of Normandy, where the family has been a prominent family for centuries, and held a family seat with lands and manor. The family were well established in the region of Calvados and several members of the family distinguished themselves through their contributions toward the community in which they lived and were rewarded with lands, titles and letters patent confirming their nobility.
Vaucelles Spelling Variations
Vaucelles Spelling Variations
Spelling variations of this family name include: Vaucel, Vaucelle, Vaucelles, Vauchelles, Vequel, Veusels, Vockel, Faucel and many more.
Vaucelles Early History
Vaucelles Early History
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Vaucelles research. Another 201 words (14 lines of text) covering the years 1536, 1749, 1803, 1726 and 1818 are included under the topic Early Vaucelles History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Vaucelles Early Notables (pre 1700)
Vaucelles Early Notables (pre 1700)
More information is included under the topic Early Vaucelles Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
The Great Migration
The Great Migration
Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: including many of the name who migrated to the New World from the mid 17th century onward.
Vaucelles Family Crest Products
Vaucelles Family Crest Products
See Also
See Also
Other References
The Vaucelles Family Crest was acquired from the Houseofnames.com archives. The Vaucelles Family Crest was drawn according to heraldic standards based on published blazons. We generally include the oldest published family crest once associated with each surname.
This page was last modified on 13 March 2014 at 15:45.
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City of Janesville officials asking residents to clear around storm sewers
Gazette staff
Monday, February 17, 2014
As temperatures rise, the city of Janesville is asking residents to remove snow and ice from storm sewer catch basins near their properties to minimize flooding.
Janesville has received a higher than average amount of snow this season, and clearing the storm sewers will give the water a place to go, according to the release.
Contact the city services center with any questions or concerns at 608-755-3110.


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"Take the half-man, he can dance for the children; kill the other one!"
For my single favorite moment of the month: Toronto going all out for Steve Nash, even giving Landry Fields a $19 million poison-pill contract in a desperate attempt to block New York's rumored Steve Nash trade … only the Lakers snared Nash and poor Toronto was stuck with Fields(Fields made just 25.6 percent of his 3s last year and had an astonishingly bad 12.0 PER.), leading to a hilarious scenario when the Raptors immediately tried to amnesty Fields's deal even as he was signing it. (Just kidding. I made that up.)
You know what the whole thing reminded me of? The Larry Sanders roast (one of the greatest TV episodes of all time7), when Artie had to book an obscure comedian named Kip Addotta to get Jerry Seinfeld at the roast, only Seinfeld canceled at the last minute, leading to Addotta droning on at the roast as Larry fake-laughed in pure misery. Eventually, he leaned over to Artie for the following exchange:
Larry: "Who the f-ck is that?"
Artie: "That's Kip Addotta."
Larry: "Who's that?"
Larry's agent: "He's the guy we had to get to get Seinfeld."
Larry: "Where's Seinfeld?"
Larry's agent: "The bastard canceled an hour ago."
Basically, Toronto's summer was the Larry Sanders roast, Steve Nash was Jerry Seinfeld, and Landry Fields was Kip Addotta. The good news for Toronto: They salvaged things (a little) by acquiring Lowry, and everyone loves last year's no. 1 pick (Jonas Valanciunas, a stud by all accounts). We don't need to get rid of basketball in Canada just yet.
Pretty much nail on the head. Let's all fake laugh in pure misery together.
Now please, for the love of god, somebody merge this thread.


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House lawmakers vote today on legislation that would curb the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission's (CFTC's) authority to oversee the $633 trillion global swaps market.
The vote takes place as a majority of CFTC commissioners have signaled they want to delay final action on how new derivatives rules apply to foreign banks and the overseas affiliates of U.S. banks and hedge funds. Chairman Gary Gensler insists the agency should take its final vote on the guidance by July 12, when the current deadline expires.
The CFTC will decide how to press forward after the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) last month outlined a different approach to regulating swaps that it oversees, which hews closer to industry viewpoints. The House bill would exempt foreign banks from CFTC rules if their home countries have broadly similar regulations and would force the CFTC and SEC to reconcile their approaches.
The House bill isn't expected to be considered by the Senate, Representative Jim Himes, a Connecticut Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee, said April 25. He voted for the bill when it was approved by the committee last month.
The legislation "is intended to send a message that Congress would like them to delay in order to achieve greater harmonization in the approach to cross-border regulation with the SEC," said Annette L. Nazareth, a former SEC commissioner and Washington-based partner at Davis Polk & Wardwell.
Bill 'Premature'
President Barack Obama's administration said in a statement yesterday that it opposes the bill, adding that its passage "would be premature and disruptive to the current and ongoing implementation of the reforms" required by Dodd-Frank.
The international reach of CFTC swap-trading requirements has been one of the most controversial elements of the Dodd-Frank Act. The CFTC became the predominant U.S. regulator of swaps under the 2010 law, while the SEC was assigned to write rules for equity and some credit-default swaps.
Banks are working under an exemption from the proposed guidance that expires July 12 and have called for an additional delay. CFTC Commissioners Mark Wetjen, a Democrat, and Scott O'Malia, a Republican, have said July 12 is an "arbitrary" deadline. Commissioner Jill Sommers, a Republican, says the exemption should be extended at least another six months.
"I'm working hard at understanding how to finalize a commission cross-border policy, but I'm worried because we're running out of time before the exemptive order expires," Wetjen said yesterday. "It is a little arbitrary we're deciding it must expire July 12. The whole reason for the original date was to match it up with what the Europeans are doing."
Foreign 'Failure'
Gensler said last week that the guidance must be finished to avoid banks and hedge funds skirting the rules by "setting up shop in an offshore locale, even if it's not much more than a tropical island P.O. box."
The European Union is seeking an agreement with the U.S. that its banks can be exempted from the CFTC's rules because it says EU standards are equally rigorous. Overseas regulators have called for the CFTC to broaden its use of such "substituted compliance," which was also incorporated into the SEC's proposed rule.
Proponents of tighter regulation of financial services argue the House bill would defer oversight to jurisdictions where regulators failed in the past to police risky derivatives trades that helped fuel the financial crisis. Swaps dealers American International Group Inc., Bear Stearns Cos. and Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. booked their derivatives trades in London. All required bailouts or went bankrupt in 2008.
"This bill would require the CFTC and the SEC to pretend that foreign regulators are doing their job, when the indisputable record is nothing but failure," said Dennis M. Kelleher, chief executive officer of Better Markets, a financial regulation advocacy group. Kelleher urged the CFTC to implement its approach by July 12.
Six Wall Street trade associations including the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association pressed the CFTC last week to delay its guidance until the agency has reviewed all correspondence submitted to the SEC about its cross-border swaps proposal. The bank lobbyists said "premature" implementation of the CFTC guidance risks creating fissures with European and other overseas regulations.
"Failing to extend the exemptive order in the absence of final cross-border guidance could increase uncertainty for international market participants," the lobbying groups wrote in a June 6 letter to Gensler.
Supporters of the legislation say it has bipartisan support in the House and seeks to fix a CFTC approach that applies regulation more broadly than Congress intended in the Dodd-Frank Act. The bill also would require the CFTC to rewrite its cross-border guidance as formal rulemaking, which would cause the commission to start over and give stakeholders another opportunity to weigh in.
A federal judge on June 7 dismissed a suit brought by Bloomberg LP, the parent company of Bloomberg News, challenging CFTC rules setting higher collateral standards for swaps than comparable futures.


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Rainbow Beach Park
3111 E. 77th Street Chicago, Illinois 60649
(312) 745-1479
Fee: Free
Age Range: Any
Lean on Me
The true story of Joe Clark (Morgan Freeman), a baseball bat wielding principal, whose convictions and dedication transformed one of the worst high schools in New Jersey from a war zone to a place where his underprivileged students had the opportunity to succeed.
Rated PG-13 | 104 minutes | 1989
Presented by Charter One, with additional support from RCN.
Chicago Park District Lakeside Cultural Series


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Other Views: German government is important to Europe—and Janesville
The maneuvering by Chancellor Angela Merkel and other senior politicians in Germany to form a viable new government is important for Europe and beyond. These developments are of immediate interest given Wisconsin's large German population. During World War II, Camp Janesville housed German POWs.
In Germany's national elections Sept. 22, the ruling conservative Christian Democratic Union and partner Christian Social Union won the most seats in the lower house of parliament but fell five short of a clear majority. Their coalition partner Free Democrats, advocates of liberal free markets, lost all seats in the election.
While several weeks have passed with no new coalition, there is no sense of imminent crisis but rather an orderly search for compromise. On Oct. 17, Chancellor Merkel's parties and the left Social Democrats publicly announced agreement to begin formal negotiations to create a coalition government.
The Social Democrats, the other major political party, advocate a nationwide minimum wage as one price of a new "grand coalition" government. Higher taxes on the wealthy are another contentious issue.
Andrea Nahles, general secretary of the Social Democrats, is adamant in defending policy positions but also willing to talk. German politicians well understand that stressful and unpleasant negotiations are unavoidable if democratic politics are to function effectively.
The talks begin begin today (Oct. 23), the day before Chancellor Merkel departs for a European Union (EU) summit. Germany has largely succeeded in securing greater financial discipline within the EU, especially on heavily indebted nations of southern Europe. Chancellor Merkel is adept at limiting domestic nationalist political pressures to abandon this leadership role.
In Greece, fierce public resistance to austerity led to growing support for the far-right Golden Dawn party, widely viewed as neo-Nazi. In 2012 elections, the party received enough votes to enter parliament but has since become mired in controversy over alleged criminal behavior. Despite these tensions and others, the EU has remained intact.
�Given the present interconnectedness of the global financial system, the financial failure of Greece and other debt-burdened EU member nations could result in another recession, perhaps even a world crisis. This reinforces the role of Germany, especially but not exclusively in Europe.
�Germany's politicians likely will establish a national governing coalition soon. Chancellor Merkel's disciplined, low-key and sensible style is especially popular with today's Germans.
Washington politicians should learn from this example.
Arthur I. Cyr is Clausen distinguished professor at Carthage College in Wisconsin and author of "After the Cold War" (NYU Press and Palgrave/Macmillan). He can be reached at email@example.com.


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Lava, Charcoal and More
At The BBQ Depot, we believe in the fine art of grilling, and we carry all of the essentials that allow you to achieve the kind of results that grilling alone cannot accomplish. With our lava rock and charcoal briquettes, you can turn your modest grilling efforts into a surreal eating experience. We offer the best selection and the best prices because we believe that everyone should have access to all of the tools that make good grilling such a timeless American pastime. Just browse our full line, and click on any product description to learn more about how to get the most from your lava and briquettes.
Lava Rocks
Lava rocks are named such for good reason. They're all about bringing the heat. Lava rocks absorb and distribute heat like a raging volcano, and are especially useful for fireplaces and gas BBQ grills. If you're struggling to turn your modest grill into a raging inferno, it may be time to invest in some high-quality lava rocks. If you're already a lava rock enthusiast, you can purchase all of your replacement rocks right here, at the best prices available.
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Charcoal briquettes are perfect for redistributing heat all across your grill, ensuring that every piece of meat, every veggie and every kabob turns out absolutely perfect, every single time. How many times have you found yourself frustrated to see a burnt chicken breast only inches away from a nearly raw wing? Every grilling enthusiast has faced this dilemma, but with our charcoal briquettes, you can rest easy and just enjoy the juicy deliciousness.
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Your Views: Stick to facts, not hype, on Keystone job outlook
Putting the obvious political screed aside, it would be instructive if letter writers such as Michael J. Obershaw stuck to facts.
His declaration that Keystone XL would create "10,000 jobs paying up to $100,000 a year" ignores that even TransCanada acknowledges the jobs are temporary (maybe lasting two years). Forbes Magazine (5/10/13) quotes a study by the Cornell University Global Labor Institute as finding that the total number of permanent jobs created will be something like 35. That's right, thirty-five!
Additionally, 85-90 percent of the jobs will be from out-of-state and nonlocal. Cornell states there is no way to project how many jobs (direct, indirect, induced) will be created. Current facilities and workers will do most of the refining. Even half or more of the pipe itself will be manufactured outside of the U.S.
Spin-off jobs are always predicted to be higher than reality shows. Trans-Alaska (Prudhoe to Valdez) did not provide the number estimated, and the Wall Street Journal said in September 1979 that the oil industry had "failed to create a significant number of permanent jobs in Alaska."
Long-term, good-paying jobs are, thus, unlikely to increase from Keystone XL. Do some research, avoid the political spin, and you will have a clearer picture of what Keystone XL probably will not accomplish. The job hype is just that—hype from TransCanada. While you are researching, ask yourself why Canadians voted down having the pipeline go through Canadian soil and out through Vancouver. It may be instructive!


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Think spring, and get lessons from local fishing guide
Dave Duwe has worked as a fishing guide in Walworth County for almost 20 years. At 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sports Show, Duwe will offer a seminar on "Fishing the Lakes of Walworth County." The annual show, at State Fair Park's Exposition Center, runs through Sunday, March 9, and has proven popular with outdoors enthusiasts. Here are 10 questions with Duwe.
Q: What inspired you to become a fishing guide?
A: I was inspired by my love of fishing and the enjoyment of teaching people how to fish. It isn't about the money, that I can assure you!
Q: What is your favorite lake to target in Walworth County, and why?
A: Lake Geneva and Lake Como—Lake Geneva has every kind of fish in it that an angler would want and plenty of different spots to fish. Como because it is quiet with little fishing pressure and huge bass.
Q: What is your favorite species to go after and why?
A: I will catch anything that bites. My favorite is bluegills. For the relaxation of it.
Q: What makes Walworth County such a good spot for fishing and hiring a guide?
A: Walworth County is an awesome place to hire a guide. I know the best locations and what is biting. I spend six to seven days (each week) on the water. For vacationers, they need not bring a boat; I have it, and the busy boat launches are my problem, not theirs.
Q: Tourism-rich Walworth County attracts lots of pleasure boaters. Don't all those other boaters make fishing difficult? How do you avoid the congestion?
A: To avoid the congestion, I go early in the morning on the weekends. Midweek isn't as bad. You can't get 'em if you don't go. A 20-foot Lund boat doesn't hurt either.
Q: What's your preference—casting, jigging, bobbers or trolling? Why?
A: Lindy-rig fishing. You can catch anything on the rig, from northern pike to bluegill. Most of the time, the fish are on the bottom. This is the best presentation I have found for bottom-feeding fish.
Q: Live bait or artificial?
A: Me, artificial; clients, live. Day in and out, live bait will out-fish artificial.
Q: Scott Walker was in Lake Geneva on Monday for the Wisconsin Governor's Conference on Tourism and suggesting that with increased fish stocking, he wants to make Wisconsin the "Walleye Capitol" of the U.S. Are you seeing improvements at this point, and is that an attainable goal?
A: For Walworth County, it is the Lake Geneva Chapter of the Walleyes for Tomorrow, not Scott Walker. They have stocked millions of walleyes in Lake Geneva. Wisconsin is blessed with many great walleye lakes. Winnebago and Green Bay are nationally known walleye factories. It can be attainable.
Q: If people come to your talk Friday, what can they expect to hear?
A: I will be discussing most of the lakes in Walworth County and how to fish them. With the time constraints, it will not be in great depth. If you want specific instruction, I would hire me for a day.
Q: I hear you spend lots of time recreational fishing with former Gazette reporter Mike Heine, husband of current Gazette reporter Gina Duwe (whom I understand is not related to you). Is Mike really that good a fisherman, or is he just a really good fishing storyteller?
A: Mike would be good fisherman if Gina would let him go! Mike is a dear friend and a great storyteller. Thank goodness he didn't write about all the crazy things I have said over the years.
Greg Peck can be reached at (608) 755-8278 or firstname.lastname@example.com. Or follow him on Twitter or Facebook.
Greg Peck can be reached at (608) 755-8278 or firstname.lastname@example.com. Or follow him on Twitter or Facebook.


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Be Aware of Tax Season Scams
During the first quarter of every "New Year," like it or not, everyone has the chore of communicating with Uncle Sam before April 15th. Franklin Police Department and neighboring agencies have noticed that it is during tax time that crimes such as Identity crimes are the greatest.
Identity crimes are identified by the Secret Service as the misuse of personal or financial identifiers in order to gain something of value or facilitate other criminal activities. According to previous statistics, Georgia has previously been ranked in the top 10 for the number of reports of compromises or thefts of identities reported by its residence.
Some of the most common schemes you as citizens should be aware of are: identity thefts, phishing scams.
The theft of identifying information includes current or former names, social security numbers, drivers license numbers, checking or saving account information, credit or other financial transaction card information, personal ids, electronic id's, medical id's, birth dates, mother's maiden names, and tax id's.
Law enforcement has found that there is no typical identity theft victim. Victims can be young, old, rich, poor, and from any ethnic and social background. Anyone can become an identity theft victim. Actually, thieves today don't even care if you are alive when they steal your identity. The identity of a dead person can be just as easily stolen as someone who is still alive and he or she won't even know how identity thieves gain access to personal information. They do this by: Stealing incoming or outgoing mail from your boxes, Dumpster Diving (stealing old bills or statements while rummaging through trash), Breaking into your vehicle, Stealing computer equipment or mobile devices which contain your personal information, or Stealing your wallet or purse. "Pretexting" is another way thieves collect this information. They do this by contacting individuals on the phone and posing as legitimate companies, claiming that they have a problem with their account to obtain information. You should never disclose personal information over the phone if the call was not initiated by you.
Thieves use "Phishing scams" to direct individuals to another website which appears legitimate. The website then request that the individual enter their personal information, usually name, phone number, social security number and date of birth. Once they enter the information in the phony website, someone steals your identity. Contacting the individual directly through social engineering or through e-mail (phishing). If you use social websites like Myspace or Facebook, don't put you full date of birth on your profile or allow people access to your profile that you do not know. Once a thief obtains your identity information, the damage they can cause to your good name is unlimited.
If a citizen who has learned or reasonably believes that he or she has been the victim of these thefts or scams should contact their local law enforcement agency immediately. We at Franklin Police Department are always available to assist our citizens should they friend themselves in this compromised situation.


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Defense Declined
"[We] are surprised that the Attorney General, contrary to her constitutional duty under the Commonwealth Attorneys Act, has decided not to defend a Pennsylvania statute lawfully enacted by the General Assembly, merely because of her personal beliefs."
–James Schultz, general counsel of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
On Thursday, Pennsylvania attorney general Kathleen Kane became the latest state AG to refuse to defend her state's gay marriage ban against a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). The ACLU sued Kane and Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett on behalf of 23 state residents whose marriages are not recognized by the state.
Kane, however, told the Washington Post that she cannot ethically defend the ban, which she considers unconstitutional. She also pointed out that Schultz can still defend Corbett, although the general counsel didn't seem overly pleased with that argument.
Secret Surveillance
"It's a tremendous boon to the rights of millions of ordinary Americans that the court has ruled the government can't summarily kick this question out of the public courts."
–Cindy Cohn, general counsel of the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF)
The National Security Agency's (NSA) far-reaching surveillance program has been making headlines recently, but the agency's data monitoring is nothing new. Five years ago, the EFF sued the government after whistleblower Mark Klein revealed that the NSA had been tapping into AT&T data.
The Obama administration tried to block the lawsuit by invoking the government's "state secrets" privilege, which states that disclosing evidence related to Klein's allegations would compromise national security. But on Monday a district court judge rejected this claim, ruling that government surveillance is no longer a secret, and that a judge can consider any classified evidence privately under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.
Testing Tussle
"They are clearly using the same processes we are using in our testing."
–Richard Marsh, general counsel of Myriad Genetics
Myriad Genetics, which just ended a lengthy court battle over two of its patents on human genes, is getting back into the patent litigation ring with lawsuits against two competitors. The Supreme Court in June invalidated the company's patents on the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes—which are linked to increased risk of hereditary ovarian and breast cancers—ruling that naturally occurring human genes are not patentable.
But the high court did uphold the company's patents on certain forms of synthetic DNA. Myriad argues that Ambry Genetics Corp. and Gene by Gene infringed on Myriad's valid patents when they introduced their own tests for BRCA1 and BRCA2.
Deferred Decision
"It's disappointing the court had the opportunity today to say definitively that considering race in admissions is not justified."
–Roger Clegg, general counsel of the Center for Equal Opportunity, a conservative think tank
The Supreme Court was busy this June, handing down verdicts on such controversial subjects as same-sex marriage and gene patentability. But there was one hot-button issue that the court largely declined to address—affirmative action. The court was considering a lawsuit filed by Abigail Fisher, who sued the University of Texas at Austin over its race-conscious admissions policy.
The 5th Circuit had previously ruled that the university's admissions program was constitutional as long as UT adopted it in "good faith." But Justice Anthony Kennedy, writing for the 7-1 majority, remanded the case, saying that the appeals court "did not hold the university to the demanding burden of strict scrutiny" mandated by previous affirmative action cases.
Antitrust Allegations
"Our proposals are meaningful and comprehensive, providing additional choice and information while also leaving room for future innovation."
–Kent Walker, general counsel of Google
Earlier this year, Google attracted the ire of European Union regulators, who accused the tech titan of violating antitrust laws by blocking its competitors in online search results. Google eventually came up with a list of proposed remedies in April, offering to make it easier for advertisers to move to competing platforms and to label its own products in search results.
EU Competition Commissioner Joaquin Almunia told Reuters that Google will likely have to make additional concessions. But Walker maintained on the company's Europe Blog that Google "thoroughly and thoughtfully" addressed each of the regulators' complaints.
Browser Battle
"The [Do Not Track] flag has been hijacked. It is flawed as a tool for reflecting consumer choice because it is an open tool that anyone can manipulate."
–Mike Zaneis, general counsel of the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB)
Although several Internet browsers have introduced "Do Not Track" (DNT) options for users who don't want websites to track their websurfing activities, advertisers haven't been so quick to accept DNT features. Some advertisers, for instance, have announced that they will not pay attention to Microsoft's DNT flags—which are activated by default on Internet Explorer 10.
Several advertising groups, including the IAB have now submitted their own proposal to a working group trying to agree on DNT standards for web browsers. The proposal would allow marketers to keep collecting certain "de-identified" data from users.


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State Level Resources
Maryland's Best Practices: An Improvement Guide for School-Based Service- Learning – A practical guide to improving service-learning in the schools including a section on "Pitfalls and Safety Nets".
School Improvement through Service-Learning – A converted power point detailing how service-learning supports school improvement goals. For the power point version, click here.
Demonstrating the Impact of Service-Learning – A brief power point detailing how to report the impact of service-learning in your school. For the power point version, click here.
Next Steps: A School District's Guide to the Essential Elements of Service-Learning – Next Steps was originally developed by school district administrators to help them evaluate and improve service-learning using a consistent set of standards. Maryland educators used and improved this tool for over two years, and a national work group revised it for national use. For a quick overview, click here.
Local School System Resources


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Rethinking Intel's greatest asset
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Over the course of the next five to 10 years, expect dramatic changes in the operating model of the world's biggest chip vendor.
Intel Corp. is changing alright, but in such incremental and deliberate ways, the process may be near conclusion before its rivals, investors, and many industry analysts realize the extent of the dramatic turnaround the current management is trying to execute.
Over the course of the next five to 10 years, and certainly before the end of this decade, I expect dramatic changes in the operating model of the company, its end-markets, as well as competitors and customers. The changes will determine whether it stays atop the global semiconductor market as the biggest vendor by revenue.
For investors, the emerging Intel is already a puzzle, as evidenced in the weak valuation that followed the announcement of the company's fiscal fourth quarter results last week.
The Intel that is being refashioned out of the enterprise that has dominated the microprocessor market will be a manufacturing giant with unparalleled manufacturing resources and IP portfolio. It will become a leading semiconductor foundry and partner to many of today's OEMs -- and future OEMs -- in key telecom and data networking equipment markets. That Intel won't walk away from its traditional PC microprocessor business -- unlike when it exited the memory semiconductor market. Rather, it will continue as the dominant supplier to whatever remains of its traditional PC microprocessor OEM customer base, but without the current overwhelming dependence on them for a majority of its sales.
That's not all. Within the next five years, Intel will morph into a powerhouse supplier of chips to data-equipment companies, in addition to becoming one of only a few IDMs capable of offering extensive foundry-style services (semiconductor wafers) to leading OEMs in high-margin and highly specialized IT equipment markets.
In other words, in a very short time, Intel has the potential to become more recognized and rewarded for its services as a customized wafer foundry company than simply a vendor of chips to either the traditional PC or mobile device (tablets and smartphones) markets.
The foundation for that future is being laid right now, and (perhaps rightly so) Intel is being punished by investors for the decisions it has taken in pursuit of those goals. Rather than reduce capital expenditure in response to slowing sales, for instance, Intel is pouring more funds into infrastructure and next-generation manufacturing processes.
Though it forecasts "low single-digit percentage increase" in revenue due to challenges in the PC segment, in 2013, Intel plans to spend about $13 billion on capital equipment -- in furtherance of 14 nanometer and 10 nanometer plans. Capex for 2012 was about the same level as is now being projected for 2013.


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The Federal Reserve played down forecasts by some of its own policy makers that interest rates might rise faster than they previously predicted.
"Several participants noted that the increase in the median projection overstated the shift in the projections," according to minutes of the March 18-19 meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee released today. Some expressed concern the rate forecasts "could be misconstrued as indicating a move by the committee to a less accommodative reaction function."
U.S. stocks rose while Treasuries pared declines after the minutes eased concern about the timing of future interest-rate increases. Even after rates rise, officials said last month, they might have to be kept at levels considered below normal for longer because of tighter credit, higher savings and slower growth in potential output.
The minutes reinforce Janet Yellen's message at her debut press conference as chair last month that the interest-rate forecasts of policy makers -- which are displayed as a series of dots on a chart -- are less important than the Fed's post-meeting statement.
"She was pretty blunt about it, saying 'Pay attention to the statement, don't look at the dots,' " said Josh Feinman, the New York-based global chief economist for Deutsche Asset & Wealth Management, which oversees $400 billion. "They knew this could be a source of confusion with the dots moving up, and they were thinking about how to manage that."
Treasury yields climbed last month after policy makers predicted that the benchmark interest rate would rise faster than previously forecast and Yellen said rates might start to rise "around six months" after the Fed ends its bond-purchase program.
The Fed in March reduced the monthly pace of purchases by $10 billion, to $55 billion, and repeated it is likely to continue paring the program in "further measured steps."
"Members agreed that there was sufficient underlying strength in the broader economy to support ongoing improvement in labor-market conditions," the minutes show. The FOMC next meets April 29-30.
The committee last month scrapped its pledge to keep the main interest rate low at least as long as unemployment exceeds 6.5 percent, saying it will look at a broader range of data when considering when to increase borrowing costs. Fed officials predicted that the benchmark interest rate would rise faster than previously forecast.
General Agreement
While there was general agreement that slack remains in the labor market, participants expressed a range of views regarding the amount of slack and how well the unemployment rate performs as a summary indicator of labor market conditions," according to the minutes. "Several" participants said some factors suggest "there might be considerably more labor market slack than indicated by the unemployment rate alone."
The FOMC met by videoconference on March 4 to discuss forward guidance for the benchmark interest rate, according to the minutes.
"Participants agreed that the existing forward guidance, with its reference to a 6.5 percent threshold for the unemployment rate, was becoming outdated," the minutes showed. "The agenda did not contemplate any policy decisions, and none were taken."
The economy and employment are showing the steady gains Yellen and her colleagues say are necessary for a wind-down in stimulus. Private employment in March exceeded the pre-recession peak for the first time, a Labor Department report showed last week.
Payrolls excluding government agencies rose by 192,000 workers after a 188,000 gain in February that was larger than first estimated. That brought the job count to 116.1 million, beating the January 2008 high of 116 million. Unemployment held at 6.7 percent, close to a five-year low, even as almost half a million people entered the workforce.
The jobs report added to evidence the world's largest economy is shaking off the effects of harsh winter weather that depressed consumption and disrupted home building and manufacturing in much of the country.
At the same time, Yellen, 67, said in a March 31 speech that the Fed will need to maintain unprecedented accommodation for "some time" because "considerable slack" remains in the labor market. "This extraordinary commitment is still needed," she said.
The FOMC said last month interest rates will probably remain low for a considerable time after asset purchases end, and that it will weigh a "wide range of information," including labor-market measures, in considering when to raise the benchmark rate.
Fed officials, in forecasts released last month with the policy statement, upgraded projections for gains in the labor market and predicted the main interest rate will rise to 1 percent by the end of 2015, higher than previously forecast.
Yellen, in a news conference following the gathering, played down the importance of the interest-rate forecasts, which are represented as a series of dots on a chart, saying the committee statement is more important.
"These dots are going to move up and down over time," she said. They moved up "ever so slightly," she said. "The committee's views on policy will likely evolve."
Yellen succeeded Ben S. Bernanke as Fed chief in February after three years as vice chair. In that role, she helped shape communication as the central bank sought to support the recovery from the longest recession since the Great Depression.
Philadelphia Fed President Charles Plosser, who votes on policy this year, told reporters yesterday he is "pretty pleased" with the jobs report for March, saying it "seemed to indicate the effects of weather are diminishing."
Chicago Fed President Charles Evans, who doesn't vote on policy this year, said in a March 28 Bloomberg Television interview that economic "conditions are looking pretty good right now," and the central bank will probably raise rates in the second half of 2015.
While flagging "a weak first quarter in the U.S. due to weather," Evans said he expects the economy to grow at a 3 percent annual pace for "the rest of the year and into 2015."
The release of the minutes coincides with the start of earnings season for U.S companies reporting first-quarter results. The reports will help policy makers determine whether recent economic weakness stems from harsh winter weather or fundamental obstacles to growth.
Sales by companies in the Standard & Poor's 500 Index probably climbed during the quarter by 2.9 percent from a year earlier, according to estimates compiled by Bloomberg. The index jumped 30 percent last year, the best performance since 1997, fueled in part by Fed stimulus.
New York-based Alcoa Inc. posted profit yesterday that exceeded estimates and forecast that global demand for aluminum will outstrip production this year. The largest aluminum producer was the first S&P 500 company to report earnings for the quarter.
Miami-based Lennar Corp., the biggest U.S. home builder by market value, saw customer traffic and sales volume rise through the first quarter.
"The fundamental drivers of improvement in the housing market remain a steadily improving economy with a slowly improving employment picture unlocking pent-up demand," Chief Executive Officer Stuart Miller said in a March 20 earnings call.
Bloomberg News


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A Toast to St. Patrick and Henry Knox
These days, St. Patrick's Day is mostly a secular celebration of Irish culture and a day of mindless consumption of way too much Guinness or green beer. As a Boston native, and history buff, March 17 is as much about Evacuation Day as it is about the shamrock-toting saint (read more about Evacuation Day). As the beer buyer at our fancy little food store, I prefer to celebrate both events with a couple of bottles of exemplary craft brew.
Although the craft brewing revolution in Ireland is alive and well, there's none to be had on this side of the pond and until I find a source, I'm recommending a few domestic ales for your celebrations.
Cadillac Mountain Stout (Bar Harbor Brewing Company, Bar Harbor, ME) – An excellent (and local) replacement for Guinness. It is a dry stout, rich and dark, creamy and luxurious like a caramel latte on the front and more French Roast on the finish. Truly a meal in a bottle, complete with a cup of coffee for dessert, but weighing in at 6.7% abv, it's much stronger than a Guinness, so I caution you to drink it in a more contemplative state, nursing it and your thoughts.
Red Giant (Element Brewing Company, Miller's Falls, MA) – The Irish are also known for their Red Ales, a full bodied, potent and somewhat sweet and buttery brew. The style is all but extinct, and there isn't a current example that stands up to the Reds of old. The Red Giant, while not specifically an Irish Red Ale, is to me, a hopeful attempt at what the style once was. It is an extraordinarily balanced beer: bitter but buttery, malty sweet but leathery too.
Grand Cru (Great Divide Brewing Company, Denver, CO) – Great Divide is one of my top 3 favorite breweries because, when you take all away all of the categories and stipulations and definitions of a beer, you should be left with a glass of something completely delicious. Great Divide has never failed this test and I am consistently blown away by their brews. The Grand Cru is a big, big beer. Chewy and sticky in the best possible way with an awesome just-past-ripe banana note from the top secret House yeast. Technically a Belgian Dark Ale (but again with the definitions!).
WipeOut IPA (Port Brewing Company, San Marcos, CA) – If we're lucky, St. Patrick's Day also marks an unofficial end to winter and a cure for cabin fever. The snow is gone, we're out parading in the streets, the baseball season is just weeks away, it isn't dark at 6 pm, the crocuses are out and the air smells like mud and earth. In my opinion, a pint glass full of a West Coast IPA is the perfect beverage for this time of year. Massive hoppiness requires massive maltiness, so you get two sensations in one, bitter and sweet, which makes sense, because you'll be drinking this classic summer beer in 50 degree mid-March sweatshirt weather. Bittersweet. Indeed.
In March, 1776, the Continental Army, led by George Washington, forced the British navy to surrender Boston and retreat all the way to Nova Scotia. This was Washington's first victory of the Revolution and was a huge morale booster for the 13 colonies: Boston, the city where it all began, was the first to be liberated. Today, that first victory is still celebrated in Massachusetts under the name of "Evacuation Day."
In my opinion, the real hero of Evacuation Day is Henry Knox, a bookseller and military enthusiast, born and raised on Federal Street. He was the seventh of ten children, born to Irish immigrants, William Knox and Mary Campbell Knox.
In May, 1775, American revolutionaries, including the Green Mountain Boys, captured Fort Ticonderoga in upstate New York. When the British relinquished the fort, they left behind a sizable amount of heavy artillery.
With the British in control of Boston, young Henry Knox recalled this stockpile of weaponry and proposed to General Washington that he retrieve it. Knox set out for Fort Ticonderoga on a mission that took him on a 56-day journey, over 300 miles in the ice and snow of a New England winter, through swamps and rivers and forests, returning with 60 tons of cannons and mortar strapped to a sled drawn by 80 ox. After Knox arrived in Boston, the cannons were placed strategically at Dorchester Heights. The British realized their fleet had all of a sudden become easy targets for shelling. This proved a tipping point and the British fleet began their retreat.
The only problem was Mother Nature would not cooperate and the Brits were forced to wait in Boston Harbor for almost a week, when favorable winds finally allowed them to sail. In that time, the American fortifications held and British supply ships were diverted by rebel boats. The date that the British actually sailed? March 17.
Among the many hats he wears, Eric Meyer is the Beer Buyer, Grill Master and a cheesemonger at Formaggio Kitchen Cambridge.


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Real world learning: Delavan-Darien High School hopes to start EMT classes next year
DELAVAN—If everything goes as planned, students at Delavan-Darien High School soon will have the opportunity to learn how to stop bleeding from a major artery.
And despite how it might sound, it's a skill that would look great on a transcript.
On Monday, Delavan-Darien District Administrator Robert Crist told the school board about seven students already had expressed an interest in EMT classes that might be held at the high school next year.
In an interview before the meeting, Crist said someone from Gateway Technical College contacted him about the program.
"I replied right away," Crist said. "I thought that would be a great opportunity for our students."
If enough students sign up, Gateway would send an instructor to the school.
"We would pay for it, but the instructors would be on site," Crist said.
The classes would be run through the state's Youth Options programs.
Youth Options allows high school juniors and seniors who meet certain requirements to take classes at a technical college, a University of Wisconsin campus or a private college, according to the state Department of Public Instruction website.
Classes can count toward both high school and college credits, according to the website.
Many students use the program to take nursing assistant courses while still in high school.
Depending on the subject of the EMT class, it could be used for an elective or a science credit, Crist said.
"The biggest thing is to provide training for something that could be a life long vocation," Crist said.
In addition, having such classes on their transcripts would help students in any post-graduation pursuits.
The Delavan-Darien School Board has to approve participation in Youth Options before the program can proceed, Crist said. That could happen as early as December.
Students from other schools could travel to Delavan-Darien to participate in the courses, Crist said.