By Karen Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 31 , 2008
Apple blossoms are starting to open and the next five to seven days are critical to Door County's fall crop. While the Door County's cherry crop is not looking good for this year, Peninsular Agricultural Research Station Superintendent Dick Weidman says the apples should be ok. Door County apples are gaining popularity. While the population in the area triples in the summer because of tourists, the fall months are getting to be a popular time too.
(Audio Here)
Pollination is vital to the success of the apple crop. Weidman talks about good pollination weather.
(Audio Here)
Door County fruit growers have called in some help from states like Texas and Florida.
(Audio Here)
Jonathon, Cortland,Empire, Ginger Gold, Delicious and the popular Honeycrisp are all grown in Door County. Weidman says they'll have a good idea about what Door County's apple harvest will look like by mid-June. Apple will be harvested from mid-September to mid-October.
By Patti Podgers DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 30 , 2008
Striving for balance in the four As—arts, athletics, academics, and activities—Gibraltar Area Schools receive high marks all around. And although Dr. Stephen Seyfer is the man in charge, he is reticent to take all the credit for the schools multiple achievements. “I applaud the parents, counselors, and teachers for a job well done,” said Dr. Seyfer, Gibraltar Schools Superintendent. “Together we achieve great things, but it is a team effort.”
In celebration of the Gibraltar Schools team effort, 38 high school seniors will walk across the Door Community Auditorium stage on Sunday, June 8th as they receive their diplomas. “They have worked very hard,” Dr. Seyfer related. “Our seniors have consistently achieved a 92% pre-admission to schools all over the country.
“Additionally, 67% of our students participate in school activities; the average is 30%. It is very rewarding to see them set high goals, and their parents are a big part of their success. With parental support, anything is possible.”
The graduating seniors will attend colleges including the University of North Dakota and Pepperdine University, Lake Forest College and Michigan Technical University. In just a few short years, Gibraltar grads will pilot planes, diagnose diseases, write legal briefs, and, yes, teach. They will build homes, massage stressed muscles, and weld pipes. One of the new graduates will serve in the Marines.
Gibraltar Schools have been serving the peninsula’s children since the early 1900s. In response to the need for serious improvements, a $4 million referendum was awarded to the schools last year. “We have been steadily working on implementing a new fire alarm system, heating system, roof. This summer very visible changes will take place. The parking lot will be torn up and repaved, a new entrance to the high school will be added, and the courtyard will be replanted. It’s all very exciting,” said Dr. Seyfer.
But the physical improvements are not the only changes at Gibraltar Schools. “We think of schools on the old model of nine months a year. That isn’t the case any longer. The business of school is year round,” explained Dr. Seyfer.
The day after graduation, summer school classes will begin on multiple levels. Catch-up classes for students in need of individualized tutoring, bridging classes to prepare for the coming year, “wrap around” classes for students with special needs, and enrichment programming will be available throughout the summer.
Gibraltar seniors are not the only graduates this year. Joining them in a leave-taking are retiring teachers Karen Johnson-Zak, French; Cheri Boock, choir; Linda Crummer, and Linda Schaefer, middle school; Jeff Steffen, special education and pupil services director; Lynnea Hickey, guidance counselor; and Scott Clark, high school history.
“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops,” wrote historian and journalist Henry Brooks Adams. Comedian Lily Tomlin’s alter ego Edith Ann adds, “I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about besides homework.” Let’s salute all the teachers in our children’s lives…
Gibraltar High School graduation is open to the public and the community is invited to attend the 1 pm ceremonies. For additional information about Gibraltar Area Schools visit www.gibraltar.k12.wihttp://www.gibraltar.k12.wi.us.us.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 30 , 2008
Christopher Baeb Gains Early Momentum with Three Local Union Endorsements
Democratic candidate for the 1st District State Assembly Christopher Baeb announced endorsements from three major unions this week. The United Steel Workers, the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, and the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters have backed the candidate. The Luxemburg native feels the unions are backing him because he best represents the blue collar worker.
(Audio Here)
"These endorsements not only show faith in my campaign, but in the ideas behind my campaign. We need change in our representation in Madison and these people agree that I'm the person to make that change happen," said Baeb.
"As a union member for over 18 years himself, Christopher understands what the working people of Door and Kewaunee counties are going through right now--high, and rising gas prices, a slowing economy, and lack of affordable health care," said Warren Demmin, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 449 IBB. Baeb believes this will boost his campaign.
(Audio Here)
The three unions represent over 5000 members in Northeastern Wisconsin. More information about the campaign can be accessed at www.baeb4assembly.com
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 30 , 2008
Peninsula Players is offering a special behind the scenes tour to begin the 2008 summer season. In its 73rd season, the players are excited to welcome their patrons back. Business Manager at Peninsula Players Audra Baakari Boyle said their patrons have enjoyed the opportunity to see what goes on behind the scenes. Peninsula Players wanted to give the public an opportunity to see for themselves the new work environment. This VIP treatment started before the major renovation. The best part of the tour is that it is free. Baakari Boyle said the tours have opened people’s eyes to the change that was needed.
(Audio Here)
If you want an opportunity to join in on the fun it is important to act fast. There are a set number of spots per tour, so you should call ahead and secure your admission. Baakari Boyle previewed the tour.
(Audio Here)
"We can squeeze 20 to 25 guests per group," said Baakari Boyle. Besides the costume shop and dining hall other areas that will be toured are the scene shop, backstage area, dressing rooms, and the new fly-tower. You can sign up ahead of time by calling the box office and registering to be on the tour. Free backstage tours will begin at 2 p.m. on Sundays, June 22, June 29, July 13, Aug. 3, Aug. 17, Aug. 24, Sept. 14, Sept. 21, Oct. 5 and Oct. 12.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 30 , 2008
Smallmouth bass fishing in Door County is at its peak right now. Anglers from throughout the United States are booking charter trips to experience the unique fishery the Door Peninsula has to offer. Owner and operator of Gary's Guide Service Gary Nault was booked solid throughout the entire Memorial Day Weekend. He chartered three trips in three days and said they had a great deal of success on the water.
Smallmouth bass will begin spawning within the next 15 days and anglers will be surprised with the increased size of this year’s fish. The species has adapted to the changing waters and now eats gobies. There is a surplus of the small invasive species and the bass are growing because of the amount of food that is readily available. Nault said if you enjoy fighting big fish that provide great action, all of the harbors in Door County are ready to be fished.
(Audio Here)
Nault has had better luck using grub tails drug along the bottom of the water. Smallmouth are likely mistaking the grub tail as a goby and bite without hesitation. The Sturgeon Bay fishing guide said anyone can catch smallmouth during this time of the year. He gave some tips on bait size, color and water depth.
(Audio Here)
Prime smallmouth bass fishing will continue throughout the month of June during spawning season. Nault said one of the best times of the year to book a charter in Door County is right now.
You can hear Gary Nault on the DoorCountyDailyNews.com fishing reports every day at 6 AM, noon and 5 PM or online anytime.
By Matt Mleziva DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 30 , 2008
New Luxemburg Chamber of Commerce President Tim Treml is wasting no time in helping the village move forward. Treml, only a month into the job, has many plans for the future of the village. He feels promotion of the village and its industrial park is key to Luxemburg's economic success.
(Audio Here)
Drawing people and businesses to the village is the first step in helping Luxemburg grow. On June 7th Luxemburg will hold its 3rd annual Dairy Dash. Nearly 500 people are expected to attend. Along with looking to the future, Treml says there are many positives happening with Luxemburg businesses right now.
(Audio Here)
Treml also noted that commitment to the area by local businesses is essential to Luxemburg's development. The Bank of Luxemburg's new facility was recently completed, which was a huge commitment to the village added Treml.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 30, 2008
Local municipalities and county governments are constantly faced with the problem of cutting costs and budget crunching. Kewaunee County has been proactive in their approach of cutting cost in the jail. Kewaunee County Sheriff Matt Joski and the jail cooks follow a strict state mandate for a minimum calorie diet. This affects how much and what they feed their inmates. When Joski was elected Sheriff nearly two years ago, major changes occurred to the jail menu.
(Audio Here)
Joski cut the majority of the hot lunches and switched everything over to bag lunches. He said the entire process was a major cost savings effort. One thing that he has noticed on a number of the county's vendors was an added fuel surcharge. Joski said it is not cheap to feed inmates but they have made major progress. The Sheriff gave an example of what is on the menu during a typical day in the Kewaunee County Jail.
(Audio Here)
Joski has cut coffee, potato chips and most desserts. Anything that can be purchased in large quantities is most often brought in by Kewaunee County. In 2008, $30,000 has been allocated for food services in Kewaunee County. Joski said at one point the annual allocation for inmate food was around $40,000. He hopes that the county will be under budget for food services again this year.
By Karyn Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 29 , 2008
Door County's cherry crop took a major hit this year and Peninsular Agricultural Research Station Superintendent Dick Weidman expects to see only a fraction pull through. Those
will a sweet tooth are out of luck this year.
(Audio Here)
On average, Door County produces 8-12 million pounds of cherries. Weidman says the numbers this year won't be near that.
(Audio Here)But its not just the cherries themselves says Weidman, the damage is greater than that.
(Audio Here)
Weidman says, the cherry season really stretches over all four seasons. Buds are laid down on the tree in the fall for the summer crop. The buds have to develop and survive through winter. After that, they continue to develop in the spring and bloom in the summer. Taking a look at next season, "its hard to tell" says Weidman.
(Audio Here)
Stone fruit trees like; apricot, peaches, plums and of course cherry are generally a bit more delicate says Weidman. These trees are more prone to disease and are not as hearty. Cherry picking season usually takes place in July and August. Sadly Weidman does not expect to see the normal 8-12 million pounds in Door County this year.
By Karyn Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 30 , 2008
Nearly one hundred people came out to Stone Harbor Resort & Conference Center for Unite Nite yesterday. DoorCountyDailyNews.com partnered with Stone Harbor to bring local employers and employees together for a business mixer. Stone Harbor provided free beverages and hors d'oeuvres, DoorCountyDailyNews.com helped spread the word and musician Mark Hendee provided the entertainment. Stone Harbor Manager Nancy Bertz.
(Audio Here)
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President & General Manager Roger Utnehmer said each dollar spent with a locally-owned business circulates seven times through the local economy, paying wages of employees who might lose their job without local support. Stone Harbor's Nancy Bertz agreed.
(Audio Here)
Stay tuned for future Unite Nights. Local business owners and those looking to network are encouraged to attend.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 29 , 2008
The United States Government is admitting fewer foreign workers into the country with short term work Visa's. This is affecting many Northern Door County businesses that depend on foreign workers during the busy summer months. Julie's Park Cafe and Motel in Fish Creek is one business that has been affected by the restrictions. Co-owner Hynek Hermann said the weak dollar is another major reason it is difficult to fill all the necessary positions.
Julie's has averaged 15-20 foreign workers during the summer months in the past. The students stay approximately three to four months. Hynek said this year he will have two or three less than he would like.
(Audio Here)
Julie's Park Cafe and Motel opened in 1998. They quickly realized that they would not be able to run the business with only local help. Julie Hermann contacted several agencies that work with foreign exchange students over seas and has been doing so ever since.
Julie met her husband through this process. Hynek was an exchange student in 1999 and the two fell in love and are now married.
The Fish Creek business is dealing with an even bigger issue than limited number of foreign workers being admitted into the U.S. Hermann said the falling value of the dollar is deterring thousands of foreign college age students from coming to the states.
(Audio Here)
Julie's Park Cafe has about 15 students coming in from Lithuania, Czech Republic, Bulgaria and Slovakia this summer. Hynek is originally from the Czech Republic and said that if he surveyed the current situation it would be a difficult decision on whether or not to come to the U.S.
(Audio Here)
He did say that he probably would have done it again because he wanted to travel the world. Hynek commented that it would have been a little less attractive, but he likely would still do it today.
Julie's Park Cafe is doing more to lure the foreign workers than ever before. They are providing housing, wireless internet and great pay. It will be difficult to continue to attract foreign exchange students for the summer months if the U.S. continues to admit less workers and the value of the dollar continues to plummet.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 29 , 2008
New Relationship Director for the Door County YMCA's Northern Door Program Center Matt Luders will begin tackling his duties on Monday. His first day on the job will be a little easier after a couple days of training are already under his belt. Luders is stepping into a new position that will focus on the positive relations with members and businesses in the Northern Door community. The newest member of the Door County YMCA family described his number one objective.
(Audio Here)
Matt Luders is excited to begin forming relationships in the Northern Door facilities. He is excited to listen to member’s thoughts, ideas and concerns. He thinks what the organization needs to do is communicate the mission of the Y to the entire community. The Relationship Director wants to share why the YMCA exists and who they serve. He said he will also be actively seeking new volunteers and donors.
(Audio Here)
Luders is quite a bit younger than the people he will be serving as the new Relationship Director. He does not see that as an obstacle. He will ask more questions, seek out their needs and learn how the Y can best serve them. He stressed that he will not approach the position with any preconceived notions. Matt Luders is excited about the potential growth and expansion of the Northern Door County YMCA.
By Karyn Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 28 , 2008
Door County's water is now protected thanks to the Great Lakes Compact. Door County Environmental Council Director Jerry Viste is very pleased with the legislature's decision to join the compact. The Great Lakes Compact is expected to prevent dry cities and countries from stealing Great Lakes water. Governor Jim Doyle signed the Great Lakes Compact on Tuesday. Viste says the Door County Environmental Council has been pushing for this for quite some time.
(Audio Here)
Viste says "most people don't realized how remarkable the signing of this compact really is. The compact, unlike most bills, has to be passed with the same language--word-for-word-- in all the states and provinces involved," he adds.
(Audio Here)
While Viste is pleased Wisconsin is onboard, he feels more should be done on a national level.
(Audio Here)
Wisconsin was the fifth of eight Great Lakes states to sign the compact. Others before it were Minnesota, Illinois, New York and Indiana. Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania must still pass the compact. The U.S. Congress must ratify it following that.
By Karyn Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 28 , 2008
An equipment problem has caused a bit of a delay in the Highway 57 expansion project. Department of Transportation Project Supervisor Steve Noel said crews started on the project today but progress was quickly halted. Noel says they got about 1,000 feet done, then experienced some equipment problems.
(Audio Here)
Noel says the plan is to head south with the paving, then turn around and head back north.
(Audio Here)
The project is about nine miles long. Crews can pave about one mile a day, that is assuming the weather cooperates.
(Audio Here)
Noel says crews might be able to get paving on Friday, if not they'll start on Monday. The estimated competition date of the Highway 57 expansion is October 31.
By Karyn Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 28 , 2008
Help
restore the woods and stream bank areas at Crossroads at Big Creek
in Sturgeon Bay by tackling glossy buckthorn on Friday. Buckthorn is
an invasive specie that is present in the area and is starting to
take over. Door County Invasive Specie Team Coordinator Bob Bultman
says once buckthorn gets established, it will choke out everything
under the canopy. This invasive will take over the floor of a forest
and choke out other seeds that drop, making it impossible for new
trees or foliage to grow. Mature trees are not threatened by this
invasive specie but in 80-100 years, when they are dead, buckthorn
is all that will be left. Bultman talks about ways to take care of
this problem.
(Audio Here)
Bultman says it is much easier to put out a sapling, instead of
having professionals step in to remove it, making it a very costly
problem. He says education is the key and encourages everyone to
know what it looks like and how to eradicate it.
(Audio Here)
Bultman says when tackling buckthorn, watch out for thorns that may
be on the plant and remember to apply the appropriate herbicide on
any stumps. Wet areas require an approved aquatic label, as regular
over-the-counters are harmful to species living in the water. Above
all, Bultman reminds everyone that the fruit of the buckthorn, the
berries, is
how this invasive plant spreads.
(Audio Here)
To learn more about buckthorn, you are invited to head out to
Crossroads at Big Creek on Friday and then again June 6 and 13.
Volunteers will meet at 10:00AM at the Collins Learning Center.
Bultman suggests wearing work clothes and dress for the weather.
Gloves and safety glasses are recommended. If you can, please bring
hand saws and loppers.
By Patti Podgers DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 28 , 2008
Breast cancer statistics can be overwhelming. Over 200,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. It is the second leading cause of death for all women and the leading overall cancer deaths in women between the ages of 20 and 59. One person dies of breast cancer every 14 minutes.
But
look beyond the staggering figures, and a pink shimmer of hope glows
bright. Today, there is a 97% five-year survival rate in localized
breast cancers. Approximately 80% of all breast tumors are benign.
Techniques of diagnosis, self-examination, and the identification of
familial genetic links provides for early detection and longer
survival rates. And if Carrie Baldwin has her way, the war against breast cancer will continue. Last year she organized The Pink Classic Golf Scramble in honor of a special woman and in tribute to everyone who fights the good fight against cancer. “My mother Sue is my role model. She’s an eleven-year breast cancer survivor and was the impetus for this event. And through our collaboration with the Wellness Center of Door County, the funds we raise stay right here in Door County and help our residents who are affected by cancer,” said Baldwin.
The second annual Pink Classic will tee off at 9 am on Sunday, June 1st when a gunshot start will begin the event at Maxwelton Braes Golf Course in Baileys Harbor. “Last year’s ‘event to prevent’ raised $21,000 and we’re setting our goals even higher. We often wonder how we can make a difference. Well, this is an event we can all have fun participating in as we raise funding for treatment and research,” encouraged Baldwin.
Approximately 100 golfers participated in last year’s event. As the tee off time approaches a limited number of openings are currently open for this year’s Pink Classic. But the golf tournament is only a part of the day’s activities. Participants are encouraged to wear pink and compete for the “Prettiest in Pink” awards.
Following the golf tournament, a live auction, raffles, music featuring Big Mouth, and dinner will be open to the public for the cost of a $20 ticket. “You don’t have to be a golfer,” said Bonnie Spielman, Pink Classic’s co-chair. “Come join us after, have dinner and listen to the music, and do some shopping. Every dollar we raise is going directly to helping our own.”
We all know someone who has been affected by breast cancer…our sisters, mothers, daughters, our friends and neighbors. But there is good news and The Pink Classic Golf Scramble is making the best kind of headlines.
For additional information on The Pink Classic Golf Scramble contact Jason Daubner at 920.839.2311 or visit www.wellnesscenterofdoorcounty.com.
By Karyn Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 28 , 2008
The 3 year old girl involved in the vehicle versus pedestrian accident in the Township of Pierce has died. The accident took place Monday afternoon on Alaska Lake Road, just north of Highway 42. The initial investigation determined that an 80 year-old man was driving south when he struck the three year old girl who was attempting to cross the road. She was then transported to a Green Bay hospital. The young girl died yesterday due to multiple injuries sustained in the accident.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 27 , 2008
Door County Board Chair Leo Zipperer applauds his fellow board supervisors on doing their homework prior to today’s meeting. The board elected to send the agenda item back to the finance committee that dealt with the transfer of funds from the undesignated fund balance to a reserve fund for the addition to and renovation of the Door County Government Center. A total of $660,000 in funds was discussed. Zipperer reviewed the board's conversation on the issue.
(Audio Here)
A transfer of non-budgeted funds from the county roads and bridges fund back to the general fund did pass. This transfer occurred after money was borrowed because of the extra costs to plow, sand and salt this winter.
A resolution dealing with the 2008-2009 Wisconsin Coastal Management Program Grant Beach Contamination Reduction was on the table. The board stood together on the issue and stated that cleaning up Door County’s beaches is a priority.
A statement of project intentions for Door County Cherryland Airport was renewed at the meeting. Zipperer said a game plan has been laid out at the request of the state. It is a five to six year plan. The Board Chair talked about the future plans for Cherryland Airport.
(Audio Here)
Expansion of the Door County Cherryland Airport would likely come with matching state and/or federal grants. The Airports and Parks Committee set the plan previously and the board approved the verbiage.
Finally, Salaries of elected officials were discussed. Zipperer said the pay schedules for register of deeds, treasurer and county clerk were determined. Zipperer said one supervisor disagreed with the terms and conditions of employment for the county clerk and voted against the agenda item.
Overall, Zipperer said the meeting flowed nicely and much was accomplished. The next Door County Board of Supervisors meeting will be held on Washington Island Thursday, June 26.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 27 , 2008
Traveling to the Door County Airport along County Highway C will be more difficult for the next month. The Door County Highway Department began road construction work on County Highway C this week from North Duluth Avenue to County Highway PD. The total length of the project is 2 miles with an estimated cost of $371,000. Door County Highway Commissioner John Kolodziej said there will be no major traffic implications for commuters. Kolodziej talked about the project.
(Audio Here)
Depending upon weather conditions, all work is planned to be completed by June 26, 2008. The roadway will be kept open to traffic during the majority of the construction; however, there will be a need to close the roadway for an estimated 2 working days during the construction. In addition, some lane closures will occur during the construction. Access for services, such as garbage collection and mail delivery and private driveways will be maintained at all times, but residents should be prepared to expect periods of limited access. Kolodziej talked about the funding for this project.
(Audio Here)
Since most of this project will be completed under traffic, the public is encouraged to use appropriate caution, and slow down when traveling the area. Advanced warning signage will be placed to remind motorists they are entering a construction zone. Motorists are advised to use caution during the construction, and be aware that areas of loose aggregate on the roadway will occur during the reconstruction.
Highway departments across the state are trending towards elimination of hills on roadways. Highway C does have a hill in the portion of the highway that is being worked on. However, there is no plan to do any major grading projects to ease the slope of the Highway C hill. Kolodziej does not feel there is a visibility problem at this site, therefore the department has not planned to undertake any major reconstruction efforts.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 27, 2008
A Sturgeon Bay man and a passenger were arrested Sunday afternoon following a car chase that exceeded 100 mph, according to Manitowoc County Sheriff Rob Hermann. The sheriff said the chase was extremely dangerous because of the high rate of speed. Deandre Bluntson, 23, was taken into custody and charged with felony fleeing, resisting arrest, operating after suspension, and a probation and parole warrant. The passenger, 18-year-old Nicole Skenadore, of Green Bay, is in custody facing felony fleeing and operating after suspension charges. Sheriff Hermann described how the chase began.
(Audio Here)
The vehicle, driven by Bluntson, fled by traveling east on U.S. Highway 10 and then north on I-43, according to Hermann. Bluntson exited at County Trunk Highway V, stopped in a driveway on County Highway R and ran on foot before being apprehended, Hermann said.
The entire chase lasted for approximately six miles. While deputies pursued the 23-year-old man on foot, the passenger, Skenadore slid into the driver’s seat and started to flee the area in the vehicle.
(Audio Here)
Sheriff Hermann said his deputies continued to pursue at a high rate of speed because of previous warrants out for the owner of the vehicle. They also continued at speeds of 100 miles per hour because there was little traffic in the area and they were not racing through city limits. This potentially deadly chase ended with no injuries, no property damage and two suspects under arrest.
By Matt Mleziva DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 27, 2008
On June 1st at 2:00pm, three Door County schools will be holding graduation ceremonies. Sevastopol will be graduating 56 students in the Elementary School gym. The Valedictorian is Daniel Gorchynski and the Salutatorian is shared by Molly Petersilka and Sadie Weber. Southern Door High School will be graduating 92 in their school auditorium at 2pm. Brittany Pigeon is the Valedictorian and Derek Waterstreet the Salutatorian. Sturgeon Bay will be holding graduation in the high school at 2pm. The Clippers will be graduating 108 students including the Valedictorian Sara Watermolen and Salutatorian Heather Schmitt. High School Counselor Gary Grahl had spoke highly of the graduating class.
(Audio Here)
June 6th Washington Island will be holding graduation at 7pm. The Valedictorian will be Benjamin Schutz and the Salutatorian will be Anne McDonald. Washington Island will be graduating 13 students, one of their largest classes to date says Principal Dr. Churchill-Chasten.
(Audio Here)
June 8th will be graduation for Gibraltar students. Gibraltar will be graduating 46 students including Valedictorian Molly Dickson and Salutatorian Allison Pfeifer in the Door County Auditorium at 2pm.
By DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 27, 2008
STURGEON BAY CENTER
Monday through Thursday 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
Friday 5:00 am to 7:00 pm
Saturday 7:00 am to 3:00 pm
Sunday 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
NORTHERN DOOR CENTER
Monday through Friday 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
Saturday 7:00 am to 3:00 pm
Sunday 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 27, 2008
The Door County Board of Supervisors will pay special tribute to former representative Bill Goettelman to begin the May meeting. The former board member died last month. The board will visit the Southern Door High School Auditorium for its monthly meeting today. The 9:00 am meeting will begin with the emotional agenda item. Board Chair Leo Zipperer said the board will recognize the wonderful job Goettelman did serving his constituents.
(Audio Here)
The board will transfer non-budgeted funds from the county roads and bridges fund back to the general fund. This happens after money was borrowed because of the extra costs to plow, sand and salt this winter.
The transfer of funds from the undesignated fund balance to a reserve fund for the addition to and renovation of the Door County Government Center will also be on the agenda.
A resolution dealing with the 2008-2009 Wisconsin Coastal Management Program Grant Beach Contamination Reduction will be on the table. Board Chair Zipperer said cleaning up Door County’s beaches is a priority.
(Audio Here)
Another state grant dealing with invasive species control will be talked about and likely passed at the meeting.
Finally, Salaries of elected officials will be discussed. Zipperer said the pay schedules for register of deeds, treasurer and county clerk will be determined. The clerk of courts and sheriff will also be discussed but their pay scale is set until 2010.
Public comment is welcomed at the beginning of every meeting. The 9:00 am meeting will be in the Southern Door High School Auditorium.
By Karyn Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 27, 2008
A three year old girl was hit by a car in the Township of Pierce at about 12:30PM yesterday. The Kewaunee County Sheriff's Department was called to Alaska Lake Road, about a quarter mile north of Highway 42. The initial investigation determined that an 80 year old man was traveling south on Alaska Lake Road when he hit the girl who was attempting to cross the road. The girl was transported to a medical facility in Green Bay. Her status is unknown at this time. This accident is being investigated by the Kewaunee County Sheriff's Department, with the assistance of the State Patrol Accident Reconstruction Team.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 26, 2008
The future of the middle school football program in the Sturgeon Bay School District has been up in the air for a few months. Discussion on the topic began at the April 16 meeting and concluded last week. Superintendent Joe Stutting and the board of education further discussed the pros and cons of having the parochial schools run the program.
A committee was formed and next year a seventh and eighth grade coach will be hired by the school district. Instead of volunteers that rotated on a regular basis, the hired coaches will hopefully stay with the program for a longer period of time and provide some continuity with the high school program. Stutting talked about the changes to the middle school football program.
(Audio Here)
Fifth and sixth grade football will continue to be run through St. John Bosco. The new committee will set up volunteers to coach the youth program that will include fifth and sixth grades. Stutting described the decisions that were made at the last school board meeting.
(Audio Here)
The major changes for the football program will be that two coaches will be paid and on two year contracts. Eventually, the entire football organization will be run on bylaws, rules, regulations and a constitution.
The hire will be made within the next couple of months. The position will go to the best applicant. A teacher does not have more of an advantage than a community member does. However, Stutting said the school would like to hire two people that will be interested in coaching for a long term.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 26, 2008
County Highway H at the State Highway 57 construction project will be closed to through traffic from tomorrow through Thursday. The contractor Zignego Construction will begin the placement of the concrete pavement for the southbound lanes. This closure is dependent upon proper weather conditions for the pouring of the concrete. The County Highway H roadway will be reopened to traffic with the placement of temporary gravel pavement on Thursday.
Door County Highway Commissioner Kolodziej said this will not tie up traffic for any extended period of time.
(Audio Here)
The contractor plans to pave the entire southbound lanes of STH 57 first. Therefore, additional three-day road closures will occur at the County Highway D, C and Y intersections. Kolodziej said a special concrete will be used at the intersections to allow for minimal traffic disruption.
(Audio Here)
Door County Highway Commissioner John Kolodziej said Highway H was covered with a temporary asphalt pavement for the construction process. Road crews will remove that in order to put the new concrete in place.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 25, 2008
Phosphorus levels in the bay of Green Bay are getting out of hand. According to Jerry Viste, the Executive Director of the Environmental Council, phosphorus levels measured in parts per million are currently five times what is recommended. Following the 1972 Amendments to the Clean Water Act, municipal wastewater discharges of phosphorus were limited to 1 mg/l and the allowable phosphate content of household detergents was reduced. Things got much better after that in Lake Michigan, but Green Bay is beginning to concern Viste.
(Audio Here)
Some experts say about 80% of the phosphorus in the lake comes from agricultural sources. Those agricultural sources are both manure and fertilizers applied to farmland. Viste said the current evaluation of the bay is that phosphorus levels have doubled in the past ten years.
(Audio Here)
The Door County Environmental Council meets regularly, and Viste said many people are concerned with the future of Lake Michigan and Green Bay because of phosphorus levels.
By Nick Freimuth DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 25, 2008
If you have been looking for a reason to take the kids to a state wildlife area and enjoy biking, hiking, grilling and playing, the State Parks Open House Day is fast approaching. Sunday, June 8 the Wisconsin State Parks will hold their annual open house day. This gives people an opportunity to visit any of the state parks without paying the $7 vehicle admission fee. There will still be a charge to camp at the state parks, however the hope is that visitors that have not experienced a trip to one of the parks will be encouraged to visit when there is no charge. Park Superintendent at Peninsula State Park Tom Blackwood hopes people take Sunday, June 8 as an opportunity to visit.
(Audio Here)
Peninsula Park is a 3,700 acre park with activities and sights for people of all ages. Blackwood said the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, Nicolet Beach, Peninsula State Park Golf Course, and the Eagle Bluff Observatory Tower are the park's main attractions. Blackwood talks about some of the other major attractions inside Peninsula State Park.
(Audio Here)
The Wisconsin State Park System provides places for outdoor recreation and for learning about nature and conservation. The 95 state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas report about 14 million visits a year. Blackwood encourages everyone to come and join the fun Sunday, June 8 for the State Park's Open House Day.
By Karyn Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 24, 2008
It is a good idea to look at your credit report but micro managing is not. In the last story on credit reports, FISC Consumer Credit Counseling Director Gay Pusdaver talked about the online website that provides free credit reports once a year, www.annualcreditreport.com. This site lists three companies that will give you a report. Pusdaver does not suggest checking all three at the same time, instead spread it out over the year using a different company every few months. If you do owe money to creditors, Pusdaver says you should be able to take care of those payments yourself.
(Audio Here)
Pusdaver says turning your credit around will take some time. Credit reports will show payment history from the past two years.
(Audio Here)
In addition, Pusdaver says you'll want to keep up to date with your car, home and installment loans as well as credit card payments. Finally, Pusdaver does not suggest checking your credit report every month. Nor does she suggest paying another company to do it for you. If you have never seen your credit report, Pusdaver says its a good idea to check it out. She says make sure the debts listed are actually yours and remember it could be possible that you do owe money to someone that is not listed on your credit report.
Support
Downtown Sturgeon Bay Businesses During Construction
Make a special solidarity trip to Sturgeon Bay's
downtown...and save up to 50% by using the Shopping Show for your
purchase.
Downtown businesses with shopping show discounts for YOU include
Door County Eye Associates ($50 certificates), Perry's Cherry Diner,
The Ladder house, The Nautical Inn, third Avenue Cafe, Van's Bar and
THEE place for ice-cream, fudge and candy on Third Avenue, The
Copper Kettle Confectionary.
There's plenty of parking behind most businesses. Have lunch or
dinner at Stone Harbor Resort and Conference Center and then walk
the short two blocks to Third Avenue.
Make one additional purchase from a downtown business or have just
one extra lunch or dinner with someone impacted by
construction...Stick together...Do some solidarity shopping in
Sturgeon Bay.
By Karyn Klement DoorCountyDailyNews.com
May 25, 2008
Work continues on Door County's Highway 57 expansion project and concrete work puts crews one large step closer to competition. Department of Transportation project supervisor Steve Noel is hoping crews will start paving tomorrow.
(Audio Here)
Noel says much of the highway work was done last season. Grading took place and most motorists barely even noticed crews were out. Now that paving will begin soon, the layout of the new highway is more obvious. The new highway will actually follow a new route.
(Audio Here)
While the winter weather caused a need for a couple minor repairs, Noel says the project has gone well so far. He says plans are still on track for the new highway to be open in November.