By Joel Dresang
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
NewPage Corp., the Ohio-based papermaker with five mills in Wisconsin, began a Web log Friday to raise awareness of concerns about imported paper products. Click this link to take a look.
The campaign aims to get paper buyers to question where and how their paper is made.
"In today's business environment, your choice of supply is a strong reflection on your company's values, whether it is intended or not. You are who you associate with," Dave Deger, vice president of marketing for NewPage, said in a statement. "If your company associates with a paper manufacturer potentially engaged in illegal logging, questionable labor practices, or unverifiable sources of fiber, it is at risk of becoming associated with those issues too, potentially damaging the company's reputation for upholding its own sustainability practices."
NewPage is North America's leading maker of coated papers used in printing magazines and catalogs. Last year, it paid $2.6 billion for the Stora Enso North America operations based in Wisconsin Rapids, which previously had been known as Consolidated Papers Inc.
Friday, May 30, 2008
UWO to build $55 million academic building
Construction will begin later this year on the The 200,000-square-foot academic center is one key component in UW–Oshkosh’s role in providing accessible, affordable quality education to the New North region.
About $8.6 million of the project’s $55 million price tag is to be raised from private donors via the pride.purpose.promise campaign, the first comprehensive campaign in the university’s history. The campaign, now in the silent phase, includes the academic building, scholarships and student/faculty collaborative learning and research.
UWO estimates the project will create more than 2,000 construction-related jobs for the region over the next three years.
“Northeastern Wisconsin, one of the largest population centers in
Since 2000, the university has increased its enrollment by 1,000 students, and under the Wisconsin Growth Agenda, UW–Oshkosh expects to increase its enrollment by several hundred more students in high-demand fields such as biology/microbiology, medical technology, psychology, nursing, business and math/science teacher education.
The building will feature state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, project rooms and faculty offices. The university-wide impact will relieve crowding and provide opportunities for future renovations to update facilities for the colleges of Nursing and Education and Human Services. The building will also provide nonprofits and the business community with world-class facilities for meetings and special training, educational and professional development programs in the evenings and on weekends.
“Modern facilities and amenities are important to students and faculty, and necessary to meet
Located along the
“We are very grateful for the support of northeastern
“This capital campaign will provide support and help to continue the transformation of UW–Oshkosh,” said co-chair William Raaths, chief executive officer at Great Northern Corp.
“The construction of this new building is vital to the region,” said John Casper, president and CEO of the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce. “Not only will the construction project provide needed jobs, but the increased enrollment — and the staff and visitors that come with it — brings millions of dollars into the area each year. Additionally, this project will add an aesthetically appealing new structure that we can all be proud graces the
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Packers release training camp schedule
The Green Bay Packers will hold seven night practices as part of their 2008 training camp, which begins July 28.
The first practice will be July 28 at 8:45 a.m., followed by the first night practice that same day at 6:30 p.m.
The annual Family Night intrasquad scrimmage will be Sunday, Aug. 3 at 6:30 p.m. The final practice open to the public will be Aug. 26 at 10:15 a.m.
The first practice will be July 28 at 8:45 a.m., followed by the first night practice that same day at 6:30 p.m.
The annual Family Night intrasquad scrimmage will be Sunday, Aug. 3 at 6:30 p.m. The final practice open to the public will be Aug. 26 at 10:15 a.m.
Kratz not running against Petri for Congress
Calumet County District Attorney Ken Kratz has decided against running for the Sixth Congressional District seat held by U.S. Rep. Tom Petri (R–Fond du Lac), and is running for reelection as district attorney instead.
While Kratz said in a statement he is interested in running for Congress, he added, “I’ve consistently stated that I would never do anything to jeopardize the position of the Republican Party in the Sixth Congressional District of Wisconsin. With Congressman Petri seeking re-election this year, and the seat obviously remaining in Republican control, I am willing to delay any political plans until a change becomes necessary.”
Kratz will be running for his ninth term. His previous terms were all for two years, but the district attorney position is now a four-year term.Procter & Gamble gets energy efficiency awards
By Joel Dresang
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Procter & Gamble Corp.'s Green Bay paper mill and Neenah Paper Inc., which has operations in Neenah and Stevens Point, received awards for energy efficiency projects today.
"The innovation of these leading companies is making the industry more energy efficient while remaining a vital part of our state's economy," Gov. Jim Doyle said in a statement.
According to Doyle's office, Procter & Gamble's project involved construction of a new energy-efficient machine that makes tissue paper using 19% less natural gas and electricity than most modern machines.
Neenah Paper won for improvements to its wastewater treatment facility, preventing the release of 1,260 tons of carbon dioxide per year.
The governor's awards were made at the Wisconsin Paper Council's annual meeting in Neenah.
The awards are sponsored by Focus on Energy and CleanTech Partners Inc.
Wisconsin has been the nation's leading paper maker since 1953.
State: Almost 1 million jobs to fill by 2016
By Joel Dresang
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Wisconsin expects to have nearly 1 million jobs to fill by 2016, including more than 680,000 positions vacated by workers retiring or moving to other occupations, according to projections released today.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Wisconsin expects to have nearly 1 million jobs to fill by 2016, including more than 680,000 positions vacated by workers retiring or moving to other occupations, according to projections released today.
The projections, from the Department of Workforce Development Office of Economic Advisors, offer the latest employment forecasts for occupations and industries in Wisconsin, including wage information and typical job requirements.
“We are continuing to grow our economy in the face of national economic challenges, creating good-paying job opportunities for hard-working Wisconsin families,” Gov. Jim Doyle said in a statement. “As many students are graduating, and some workers are upgrading their skills, or learning new skills, it’s important for them to know that the demand for skilled workers is high in many areas of our economy.”
Among occupations offering above-average wages, registered nurses will have 21,800 openings, elementary school teachers 9,600, carpenters 7,000, and welders 3,600.
Click here to view the report.
GDP up slightly
By Don Walker
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
The U.S. Commerce Department reported today that the U.S. economy grew at a revised 0.9 percent annual rate in the first quarter, slightly better than previously thought because of lower demand for foreign goods and services and a pickup in non-residential building.
One month ago, the department estimated that the gross domestic product, which measures the total output of goods and services within the country, grew at a 0.6 percent rate.
Meanwhile, the number of U.S. workers filing new claims for jobless benefits rose slightly last week. According to the U.S. Labor Department, initial claims for jobless benefits rose 4,000 to 372,000 after seasonal adjustments ended May 24.
Johnsonville gets presidential exporting award
President George W. Bush (second from left) welcomes Bill Morgan (left) and Tom Danneker (second from right) of Johnsonville Sausage, LLC, recipients of the 2007 President’s “E” Award and “E” Star Award for Export Achievement May 20 in the Oval Office. Also pictured is U.S. Rep. Tom Petri (R–Fond du Lac).White House photo by Chris Greenberg
Since 1994, Johnsonville Sausage, LLC, has been committed to increasing its international reach with the goal of being the number one sausage brand in the world.
The company took one step closer to its goal with the recent achievement of the President’s “E” Award for Export Excellence.
President George W. Bush and U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez presented Johnsonville with the award at the White House May 20. The “E” Award, the highest honor the federal government can give to an American exporting company, recognizes
“Johnsonville Sausage is helping to keep
Johnsonville Sausage received the award based on the company’s achievement in supporting export growth in the
“Johnsonville made the strategic decision years ago to invest in expanding the company’s activities outside the United States, as a way to increase channels for growth,” said Johnsonville president Bill Morgan. “This strategy, based upon brand development in international markets and building an international infrastructure, has allowed us to grow so that we’re currently exporting to 30 countries around the world.”
Through extensive consumer research, Johnsonville produces several products solely for certain markets and tailored to the local flavors of that country. Products include Lemon and Herb sausage in
This research, along with Johnsonville’s sustained commitment to export expansion and the company’s impressive increase in sales over the last three years were further cited as successes by Gutierrez.
The “E” Award is the highest honor the federal government can give to an American exporting company. This marks the 46th anniversary of the Presidential “E” Award created by John F. Kennedy in 1961.
The President’s “E” Award may be given to persons, firms and organizations engaged in the marketing of products that make significant contributions to the expansion of the export trade of the
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Coalition links global warming, Great Lakes restoration
By Dan Egan
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
A coalition of conservation organizations is hoping that the threats posed to the Great Lakes by global warming will prod federal lawmakers into adopting a $26 billion ecosystem restoration plan that has languished in Congress for more than two years.
The Healing Our Waters–Great Lakes Coalition issued a report Wednesday that offered no new science but did go into frightening detail of what previous studies showed could happen to the five big lakes if the Earth continues to warm.
Those threats in the coming decades include a loss of up to three feet of water in the long-term averages for Lakes Huron and Michigan, a potential 10-degree bump in regional daily high air temperatures and more beach closings and sewage spills tied to increasingly stormy weather events. Warming is also expected to open the door to additional exotic species, more than 185 of which already call the lake home.
The report authors say the restoration plan alone obviously can’t keep the globe from warming up, but it could mitigate some of the expected damages to the lakes. The idea is that restoration will give a boost to the natural immunity of a system of lakes that has been weakened by decades of pollution and the introduction of dozens of invasive species.
“We need to restore the lakes’ resiliency to adapt to those changes” expected to occur due to global warming, said Donald Scavia, report co-author and a professor of Natural Resources and Environment at the University of Michigan, said Wednesday.
But Scavia said the federal government must at the same time take steps to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The report also advocates for federal passage of the Great Lakes compact, an eight-state agreement to restrict diversions beyond the Great Lakes basin.
“Climate change is drawing down water supplies all over the globe,” said Andy Buchsbaum, regional director of the National Wildlife Federation. That, he said, will make the Great Lakes a target for thirsty neighbors far and near and, “we can’t allow that to happen.”
The compact needs to pass in all eight Great Lakes legislatures before Congress takes it up. Wisconsin and its neighbors have passed the agreement, though three states — Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania — have yet to ratify the deal.
The coalition represents more than 100 institutions, including zoos, museums, hunting and fishing groups and environmental organizations.
Jobless rate drops in Northeast Wisconsin
Unemployment rates dropped in all but one metro area in Northeast Wisconsin between April 2007 and April 2008, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The April 2008 unemployment rate was 4.3 percent in the Appleton metro area, 5.5 percent in the Fond du Lac metro area, 4.3 percent in the Green Bay metro area, 4 percent in the Oshkosh–Neenah metro area, and 3.8 percent in the Oshkosh metro area. The only metro area with an unemployment rate increase from April 2007 was Fond du Lac, which was up from 4.1 percent in April 2007. Fond du Lac was also the only area to have more unemployed people, an estimated 5,600, up from 2,300 in April 2007.
In contrast, Fond du Lac was the only area with less unemployment between March 2007 and March 2008, when the unemployment rate was 4.9 percent. March unemployment increased in Appleton (5.5 percent), Green Bay (5.6 percent) and Sheboygan (4.9 percent), and was the same in Oshkosh–Neenah (5.1 percent).
Statewide unemployment in April was 4.4 percent, down from 5.2 percent in April 2007.
The April 2008 unemployment rate was 4.3 percent in the Appleton metro area, 5.5 percent in the Fond du Lac metro area, 4.3 percent in the Green Bay metro area, 4 percent in the Oshkosh–Neenah metro area, and 3.8 percent in the Oshkosh metro area. The only metro area with an unemployment rate increase from April 2007 was Fond du Lac, which was up from 4.1 percent in April 2007. Fond du Lac was also the only area to have more unemployed people, an estimated 5,600, up from 2,300 in April 2007.
In contrast, Fond du Lac was the only area with less unemployment between March 2007 and March 2008, when the unemployment rate was 4.9 percent. March unemployment increased in Appleton (5.5 percent), Green Bay (5.6 percent) and Sheboygan (4.9 percent), and was the same in Oshkosh–Neenah (5.1 percent).
Statewide unemployment in April was 4.4 percent, down from 5.2 percent in April 2007.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
EAA seeks $2 million for expansion
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Associated Press
The Experimental Aircraft Association is asking Oshkosh for nearly $2 million in financial assistance to help with building two new exhibit halls, according to The Oshkosh Northwestern.
EAA spokesman Dick Knapinski says one of the two 72,000-square foot buildings would be built without the help.
EAA plans to invest $17.2 million into the grounds in the next decade.
According to a memo from Oshkosh Community Development Director Jackson Kinney, EAA is asking for the money to be paid only after improvements are made.
The money would come from additional property taxes generated by the new development in the proposed tax incremental financing district.
Each summer EAA holds AirVenture, which is billed as the world's largest gathering of recreational aviators.
The Experimental Aircraft Association is asking Oshkosh for nearly $2 million in financial assistance to help with building two new exhibit halls, according to The Oshkosh Northwestern.
EAA spokesman Dick Knapinski says one of the two 72,000-square foot buildings would be built without the help.
EAA plans to invest $17.2 million into the grounds in the next decade.
According to a memo from Oshkosh Community Development Director Jackson Kinney, EAA is asking for the money to be paid only after improvements are made.
The money would come from additional property taxes generated by the new development in the proposed tax incremental financing district.
Each summer EAA holds AirVenture, which is billed as the world's largest gathering of recreational aviators.
U.S. 45 closed beginning today
U.S. 45 north of Oshkosh will be closed between Winnebago County G and County II beginning today until late September.
The road is closed for reconstruction of the existing two lanes, while two new lanes are being built to connect the existing four-lane sections south of U.S. 10 and north of Oshkosh.
The official detour is Wisconsin 76 (the former 45) from U.S. 41 to U.S. 10, and 10 from 76 to 45 in Winchester.
The road is closed for reconstruction of the existing two lanes, while two new lanes are being built to connect the existing four-lane sections south of U.S. 10 and north of Oshkosh.
The official detour is Wisconsin 76 (the former 45) from U.S. 41 to U.S. 10, and 10 from 76 to 45 in Winchester.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Kimberly–Clark announces price increases
Kimberly–Clark Corp. today announced that its baby and child care and consumer tissue businesses are notifying customers of plans to raise prices in the U.S. during the third quarter of 2008.
The company said the increases are necessary to offset significant inflationary pressure from higher raw material and energy costs.
The company said the increases are necessary to offset significant inflationary pressure from higher raw material and energy costs.
Net selling prices for Huggies diapers, Pull-Ups training pants, Cottonelle and Scott bathroom tissue, Viva towels and Kleenex facial tissue will increase on average between 6 and 8 percent, with implementation timing ranging from July 20 to Aug. 31. The price changes vary by brand and in some cases by package count. K–C’s net sales for these U.S. consumer products amounted to approximately $4.5 billion in 2007.
Wisconsin 172 project meeting May 29
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation Northeast Region office at Green Bay is hosting a public information meeting regarding the upcoming Wisconsin 172 Rehabilitation Project.
The meeting will be held at the WisDOT Northeast Regional Office, 944 Vanderperren Way, Green Bay, Thursday, May 29 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. This meeting will be held in an open-house format with short presentations at 5:15 p.m. and again at 6:45 p.m.
The meeting will be held at the WisDOT Northeast Regional Office, 944 Vanderperren Way, Green Bay, Thursday, May 29 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. This meeting will be held in an open-house format with short presentations at 5:15 p.m. and again at 6:45 p.m.
This project is scheduled to begin this fall. WisDOT staff will provide information regarding the project’s scope, schedule, and traffic impacts.
Plans call for resurfacing 172 between U.S. 41 and Interstate 43 beginning in September and ending in September 2010. The project includes resurfacing 172 lanes and ramps, redecking of the Fox River bridge, replacement of the Oneida Street bridges, construction of exit-only lanes for the Pilgrim Way and Vanderperren Way exits, and local roadway work.
There will be impacts to the traveling public throughout the project. These impacts will be especially significant from February to August of 2009 and 2010, when 172 will be reduced to one eastbound lane and two westbound lanes from 41 to Webster Avenue. Between Webster Avenue and I–43, 172 will be reduced to one lane in each direction for a portion of the construction project. Oneida Street will be closed at 172 from February to mid-July of 2009 and 2010 for replacement of the 172 bridges over Oneida Street. Lane and ramp closures, both long term and short term, are anticipated during construction.
Interested citizens unable to attend the meeting, or who would like more information, can contact Project Manager Chuck Karow at (920) 492-5997. Written comments regarding the project can be mailed to Chuck Karow, WisDOT, P.O. Box 28080, Green Bay, WI 54324-0080. Citizens who are hearing-impaired and who require an interpreter may request one by contacting Chuck Karow at least three working days prior to the meeting via the Wisconsin Telecommunications Relay system (dialing 711).
Oshkosh vehicles at White House
Oshkosh Corp. vehicles were featured at today’s trade promotion event hosted by President George W. Bush on the South Lawn of the White House.
The event was held in honor of World Trade Week and to focus attention on the Free Trade agreements, such as the agreement with Colombia being considered by Congress. On exhibit were U.S. products and companies that benefit greatly from Free Trade agreements with foreign countries by enhancing their competitive position.
Two specialty vehicles from Oshkosh’s brands were displayed. The Oshkosh Striker 3000 is a custom-engineered aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle that can carry 3,000 gallons of water and 420 gallons of foam from roof-mounted or bumper turrets. Fully loaded, the Striker 3000 can achieve a top speed of 70 miles per hour.
The McNeilus Standard Mixer is a vehicle for ready mix producers that features the McNeilus 10.5-yard drum, noted for its charge and discharge performance.
Approximately 30 percent of Oshkosh’s sales are generated outside the U.S. The Free Trade agreements, which reduce or eliminate tariffs and value-added taxes on U.S. exports, have assisted and will help Oshkosh Corp. sell products internationally and remain competitive with foreign manufacturers.
Video from the White House event can be seen at the White House Web site.
Something’s cooking at Cruisers
Cruisers Yachts in Oconto held an open house Tuesday to celebrate the completion of the first Rampage sport fishing yacht since production moved to Oconto. Pictured are (front, from left) Ken Hayes, Becky Saari, Ruth Bishop, Stacy Brill, Bruce Allen, Steve Brazeau, Todd Trepanier, Rick Jelinski, Tony Martens, Patty Tazalla, (back) Dan Zenz, Jan Frank, David Refinski of BVK in Milwaukee, Jon Viestenz, Jeff Brunson, Russ Davis, owner K.C. Stock, president Jim Viestenz, Pete Gillon, Jeff Butz, Mark Annarumma and Larry Swanlund.
Road construction stopped for Memorial Day weekend
Memorial Day weekend travelers will find few work zones to slow their travels, according to the state Department of Transportation.
Most projects on the state’s Interstate Highway System will allow at least two lanes in each direction. The Marquette Interchange in downtown Milwaukee has various ramp and lane closures, including the ramp from northbound I-43/I-94 to westbound I-94. Traffic is detoured via local streets. It's recommended that travelers wanting to head west on I-94 from southeast Wisconsin use the I-894 bypass. The only other Interstate with lane restrictions is the I-535 Blatnik Bridge between Superior, Wisconsin and Duluth, Minnesota, with one lane in each direction.
State safety officials remind motorists that they should stay alert, slow down, and allow a safety cushion between vehicles when approaching and driving through work zones. The most frequent crash in a work zone is a rear-ender. Officials note that during the Memorial Day weekend last year, four people were killed in traffic crashes, the fewest on record. On average, Memorial Day weekend crashes claim 11 lives. Law enforcement agencies are hoping to continue the tradition of lower traffic fatalities by participating in the Click It or Ticket mobilization, encouraging motorists to buckle up to protect themselves in the event of a crash.
Work zones motorists may encounter during the Memorial Day weekend include 12.5 miles of Wisconsin 76 in Outagamie County between Wisconsin 54 and U.S. 45. The highway is closed for bridge repairs and replacement. The detour is via Wisconsin 54, U.S. 45 and Wisconsin 76.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Four charged with union embezzling
By John Diedrich
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Four current or former officials including the past president of a steelworkers union in Kaukauna have been indicted in federal court on charges they embezzled from the union, according to court documents released today.
Tim Giles, Randy Sanders, Mary Schaeuble and Eugene Huss were indicted by a federal grand jury on Tuesday. Giles is a former president and Sanders is a former vice president, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Mel Johnson. Huss and Schaeuble have lower positions in the union which they maintain, he said.
The charges arise from a Department of Labor audit of Local 20 of the United Steelworkers Union, Johnson said. The union pays its officers for lost time from work when they doing union business. Johnson said investigators found the four billed the union for lost time when they actually were at work or for time when they weren't scheduled to work, in 2005 and 2006.
The amounts that were allegedly embezzled run up to a few thousand dollars But whatever the amount, the federal government is responsible to guarding the integrity of union funds., Johnson said.
An attorney for the defendants did not return a call for comment.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Four current or former officials including the past president of a steelworkers union in Kaukauna have been indicted in federal court on charges they embezzled from the union, according to court documents released today.
Tim Giles, Randy Sanders, Mary Schaeuble and Eugene Huss were indicted by a federal grand jury on Tuesday. Giles is a former president and Sanders is a former vice president, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Mel Johnson. Huss and Schaeuble have lower positions in the union which they maintain, he said.
The charges arise from a Department of Labor audit of Local 20 of the United Steelworkers Union, Johnson said. The union pays its officers for lost time from work when they doing union business. Johnson said investigators found the four billed the union for lost time when they actually were at work or for time when they weren't scheduled to work, in 2005 and 2006.
The amounts that were allegedly embezzled run up to a few thousand dollars But whatever the amount, the federal government is responsible to guarding the integrity of union funds., Johnson said.
An attorney for the defendants did not return a call for comment.
2006–07 Wisconsin net job loss estimate: 285
Between the third quarter of 2006 and the third quarter of 2007, Wisconsin lost an estimated 285 private sector jobs, while the U.S. gained a net 967,000 jobs, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics.
From June 2007 to September 2007, the number of job gains from opening and expanding private sector establishments was more than 7.2 million, and the number of job losses from closing and contracting establishments was almost 7.5 million, leading to a net loss of 235,000 jobs. This is the first quarter since June 2003 where gross job losses have exceeded gross job gains.
Over this period, firms with 1,000 or more employees accounted for the largest share of gross job gains (16.9 percent) as well as the largest share of gross job losses (16.4 percent).
The Business Employment Dynamics (BED) data series include gross job gains and gross job losses at the establishment level by major industry sector and for the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, as well as gross job gains and gross job losses at the firm level by employer size class.
The change in the number of jobs over time is the net result of increases and decreases in employment that occur at all businesses in the economy. BED statistics track these changes in employment at private business units from the third month of one quarter to the third month of the next.
Opening and expanding private sector business establishments gained 7.2 million jobs in the third quarter of 2007, a decrease of 395,000 from the previous quarter. Over the quarter, expanding establishments added 5.8 million jobs, while opening establishments added 1.4 million jobs. Gross job losses totaled 7.5 million, an increase of 81,000 from the previous quarter. During the quarter, contracting establishments lost 6.1 million jobs, while closing establishments lost 1.4 million jobs.
Net losses were seen in the third quarter of 2007 in all but three sectors of the economy: utilities, wholesale trade, and education and health services. These industries showed gains of 1,000, 2,000, and 113,000 jobs, respectively. Gross job gains and gross job losses in manufacturing fell to levels of 467,000 and 564,000 jobs, respectively, in the third quarter of 2007. Despite the drop in gross job losses, this sector experienced a net loss of 97,000 jobs, the largest net loss in 15 quarters.
In the service-providing sector, gross job gains totaled 5,763,000 and gross job losses totaled 5,781,000, resulting in a net loss 18,000 jobs. This is the first net loss since the first quarter of 2003. The education and health services sector gained 797,000 jobs and lost 684,000 jobs in the third quarter of 2007, for a net gain of 113,000. This industry has experienced a net job growth every quarter since this series began in 1992.
In retail trade, gross job gains decreased again this quarter to 996,000 and gross job losses rose to 1,055,000, resulting in a net loss of 59,000 jobs. The leisure and hospitality industry gained 1,158,000 jobs and lost 1,215,000 jobs in the third quarter of 2007, for a net loss of 57,000 jobs.
The financial activities sector experienced gross job gains of 408,000 and gross job losses of 470,000, resulting in a net loss of 62,000 jobs. This is the second net loss in this sector since the fourth quarter of 2003.
From June to September 2007, firms with 1,000 or more employees accounted for the largest share of gross job gains (16.9 percent) as well as the largest share of gross job losses (16.4 percent). Small firms, those with up to 19 employees, showed an increase in their proportion of gross job gains over the quarter, with shares dropping for all other size classes. The gain was most significant for firms with 1 to 4 employees, whose share of gross job gains grew from 14.8 percent to 16 percent in the third quarter.
The firms with up to 19 employees, along with the largest size class, firms with 1,000 or more employees, were the only classes to show a drop in share of gross job losses. Despite the drop, size class 1,000 or more employees maintains the largest share of gross job losses in the third quarter.
Over the quarter, Wyoming had the highest rate of gross job gains (9.8 percent) and Alaska had the highest rate of gross job losses (11.1 percent). Hawaii had the lowest rate of gross job gains (5.1 percent) while Illinois and Pennsylvania had the lowest rate of gross job losses (5.7 percent each). Gross job losses exceeded gross job gains in 34 states, the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands, resulting in net losses in total private sector employment.
Additional information on gross job gains and gross job losses are available at the Business Employment Dynamics Web page on the BLS Web site at http://www.bls.gov/bdm.
From June 2007 to September 2007, the number of job gains from opening and expanding private sector establishments was more than 7.2 million, and the number of job losses from closing and contracting establishments was almost 7.5 million, leading to a net loss of 235,000 jobs. This is the first quarter since June 2003 where gross job losses have exceeded gross job gains.
Over this period, firms with 1,000 or more employees accounted for the largest share of gross job gains (16.9 percent) as well as the largest share of gross job losses (16.4 percent).
The Business Employment Dynamics (BED) data series include gross job gains and gross job losses at the establishment level by major industry sector and for the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, as well as gross job gains and gross job losses at the firm level by employer size class.
The change in the number of jobs over time is the net result of increases and decreases in employment that occur at all businesses in the economy. BED statistics track these changes in employment at private business units from the third month of one quarter to the third month of the next.
Opening and expanding private sector business establishments gained 7.2 million jobs in the third quarter of 2007, a decrease of 395,000 from the previous quarter. Over the quarter, expanding establishments added 5.8 million jobs, while opening establishments added 1.4 million jobs. Gross job losses totaled 7.5 million, an increase of 81,000 from the previous quarter. During the quarter, contracting establishments lost 6.1 million jobs, while closing establishments lost 1.4 million jobs.
Net losses were seen in the third quarter of 2007 in all but three sectors of the economy: utilities, wholesale trade, and education and health services. These industries showed gains of 1,000, 2,000, and 113,000 jobs, respectively. Gross job gains and gross job losses in manufacturing fell to levels of 467,000 and 564,000 jobs, respectively, in the third quarter of 2007. Despite the drop in gross job losses, this sector experienced a net loss of 97,000 jobs, the largest net loss in 15 quarters.
In the service-providing sector, gross job gains totaled 5,763,000 and gross job losses totaled 5,781,000, resulting in a net loss 18,000 jobs. This is the first net loss since the first quarter of 2003. The education and health services sector gained 797,000 jobs and lost 684,000 jobs in the third quarter of 2007, for a net gain of 113,000. This industry has experienced a net job growth every quarter since this series began in 1992.
In retail trade, gross job gains decreased again this quarter to 996,000 and gross job losses rose to 1,055,000, resulting in a net loss of 59,000 jobs. The leisure and hospitality industry gained 1,158,000 jobs and lost 1,215,000 jobs in the third quarter of 2007, for a net loss of 57,000 jobs.
The financial activities sector experienced gross job gains of 408,000 and gross job losses of 470,000, resulting in a net loss of 62,000 jobs. This is the second net loss in this sector since the fourth quarter of 2003.
From June to September 2007, firms with 1,000 or more employees accounted for the largest share of gross job gains (16.9 percent) as well as the largest share of gross job losses (16.4 percent). Small firms, those with up to 19 employees, showed an increase in their proportion of gross job gains over the quarter, with shares dropping for all other size classes. The gain was most significant for firms with 1 to 4 employees, whose share of gross job gains grew from 14.8 percent to 16 percent in the third quarter.
The firms with up to 19 employees, along with the largest size class, firms with 1,000 or more employees, were the only classes to show a drop in share of gross job losses. Despite the drop, size class 1,000 or more employees maintains the largest share of gross job losses in the third quarter.
Over the quarter, Wyoming had the highest rate of gross job gains (9.8 percent) and Alaska had the highest rate of gross job losses (11.1 percent). Hawaii had the lowest rate of gross job gains (5.1 percent) while Illinois and Pennsylvania had the lowest rate of gross job losses (5.7 percent each). Gross job losses exceeded gross job gains in 34 states, the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands, resulting in net losses in total private sector employment.
Additional information on gross job gains and gross job losses are available at the Business Employment Dynamics Web page on the BLS Web site at http://www.bls.gov/bdm.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Dreyer’s to be official ice cream of Great Wolf resorts
Two prominent brands — one representing cold confections, the other waterpark fun — are tapping into this cool synergy by inking a deal just weeks before the launch of the busy summer travel season.
Great Wolf Resorts, Inc., announced today a five-year partnership with Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream, Inc. that will position Dreyer’s, Edy’s and Nestlé brands as the official ice cream of the 11 Great Wolf Resorts properties located around the country, including the Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center in Sheboygan.
Great Wolf Resorts guests can enjoy Dreyer’s, Edy’s and Nestlé products in all resort restaurants, mobile distribution units and vending areas beginning in June with full rollout by July 4.
In addition, Great Wolf Resorts is piloting the Dreyer’s and Edy’s brand new interactive concept “Loaded” for potential inclusion in the product portfolio as well as offering resort guests a taste of another exciting new ice cream innovation. The partnership will also allow for the development of various marketing and promotional programs between the two companies.
“We are delighted to partner with the leading ice cream brands,” said Marion Edwards, corporate director of food and beverage for Great Wolf Resorts. “The good feelings people have regarding these brands make this as much about creating wonderful childhood memories as offering delicious snacks.”
“Great Wolf Resorts provide exciting and memorable vacation destinations for families,” said Craig Hettrich, director of national accounts and business development for Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream, Inc., the makers of Dreyer’s, Edy’s and Nestlé products. “Kids of all ages become positively giddy when an ice cream treat is handed to them, and that’s why we’re especially pleased with this partnership, because we’ll be a part of those special vacation moments too.”
The agreement was developed through the efforts of The Kempton Group (TKG), a Cincinnati firm that represents Great Wolf Resorts in its corporate partnerships and strategic alliances.
Great Wolf Resorts, Inc., announced today a five-year partnership with Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream, Inc. that will position Dreyer’s, Edy’s and Nestlé brands as the official ice cream of the 11 Great Wolf Resorts properties located around the country, including the Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center in Sheboygan.
Great Wolf Resorts guests can enjoy Dreyer’s, Edy’s and Nestlé products in all resort restaurants, mobile distribution units and vending areas beginning in June with full rollout by July 4.
In addition, Great Wolf Resorts is piloting the Dreyer’s and Edy’s brand new interactive concept “Loaded” for potential inclusion in the product portfolio as well as offering resort guests a taste of another exciting new ice cream innovation. The partnership will also allow for the development of various marketing and promotional programs between the two companies.
“We are delighted to partner with the leading ice cream brands,” said Marion Edwards, corporate director of food and beverage for Great Wolf Resorts. “The good feelings people have regarding these brands make this as much about creating wonderful childhood memories as offering delicious snacks.”
“Great Wolf Resorts provide exciting and memorable vacation destinations for families,” said Craig Hettrich, director of national accounts and business development for Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream, Inc., the makers of Dreyer’s, Edy’s and Nestlé products. “Kids of all ages become positively giddy when an ice cream treat is handed to them, and that’s why we’re especially pleased with this partnership, because we’ll be a part of those special vacation moments too.”
The agreement was developed through the efforts of The Kempton Group (TKG), a Cincinnati firm that represents Great Wolf Resorts in its corporate partnerships and strategic alliances.
Tundra Lodge Resort to add conference center
The Tundra Lodge Resort in Green Bay will begin construction of a $2.3 million conference center this month.
The Northwoods-themed Tundra Lodge Resort, which was purchased by Bays Hospitality in December 2007, expects to open the 23,000-square-foot conference center in October.
The resort currently has meeting spaces that can accommodate gatherings of up to 200, but has had to turn away larger groups.
“The Tundra Lodge is already a full service hotel,” said Matthew Foley, Tundra Lodge’s director of Operations. “The addition of the conference center is the next logical step.”
“We will be building the conference center to meet IACC standards which will make it one of only three hotels in the state to meet their Universal Criteria standards,” said owner
The conference center, which will be attached to the 162-room resort, will include wireless Internet access and state-of-the-art audiovisual technology. The two-story center can be broken down into 16 different combinations and will also feature two executive boardrooms. Full-service banquet facilities will be also be available.
The property has been undergoing a major renovation program in recent months including an all new mattress and bedding program in all the guest rooms and also 37-inch LCD TVs in all the suites and free high speed internet through out the entire resort. Capital improvements in new equipment and services have also been made in the Waterpark and
The Tundra Lodge recently renovated its full service restaurant, Caribou, which offers a new open concept kitchen and more extensive menu. The restaurant reopened to the public May 8.
This urban
Corrigan’s Custom Built Structures of De Pere designed the new conference facility and will be the General Contractor for the project.
Oshkosh names Fortune Brands CFO to board
Oshkosh Corp. (OSK) said today it has elected Craig P. Omtvedt to the company's board.
Omtvedt is senior vice president and chief financial officer for Fortune Brands Inc. (FO), parent company of Master Lock in Milwaukee and other consumer products companies. Fortune Brands has annual sales of $8.6 billion.
Oshkosh makes military trucks and vehicles, commercial trucks, and fire and emergency vehicles.
Omtvedt is senior vice president and chief financial officer for Fortune Brands Inc. (FO), parent company of Master Lock in Milwaukee and other consumer products companies. Fortune Brands has annual sales of $8.6 billion.
Oshkosh makes military trucks and vehicles, commercial trucks, and fire and emergency vehicles.
New North towns honored as Best Small Towns
Eighteen New North communities were recently named some of Wisconsin’s 2008 Best Small Towns by Wonders of Wisconsin.
“It’s no surprise that the New North is home to some of the best small towns in the state,” said Jerry Murphy, executive director of the New North, Inc. “The New North boasts beautiful trails, wonderful lake and rivers, great shopping, and fantastic entertainment. These towns are truly great places to live and to visit and are deserving of the recognition they are receiving.”
The New North communities being recognized by Wonders of Wisconsin are:
For a complete list of the winners, visit http://www.wondersofwisconsin.com.
“It’s no surprise that the New North is home to some of the best small towns in the state,” said Jerry Murphy, executive director of the New North, Inc. “The New North boasts beautiful trails, wonderful lake and rivers, great shopping, and fantastic entertainment. These towns are truly great places to live and to visit and are deserving of the recognition they are receiving.”
The New North communities being recognized by Wonders of Wisconsin are:
- Algoma: Best Town on a Lake (#4).
- Baileys Harbor: Best Town for a Boating Getaway (#2).
- Crivitz: Best Snowmobiling Getaway (#5).
- Egg Harbor: Best Galleries and Arts Scene (#1).
- Elkhart Lake: Best Town on a Lake (#3).
- Ephraim: Most Beautiful Town (#3); Most Distinctive Architecture (#5).
- Fish Creek: Best Theater and Entertainment Town (#3 — Peninsula Players Theatre), Best Cross Country Skiing Town (#4), Most Romantic Town for Adult Getaway (#3).
- Green Lake: Most Scenic Beauty (#3), Best Town for Dining (#3), Best Town for a Family Weekend (#2).
- Iola: Best Festival Weekend (#4 — Iola Old Car Show).
- Keshena: Best Town on a River (#5).
- Kohler: Best Shopping (#4), Most Romantic Town for Adult Getaway (#4).
- Peshtigo: Best Historic Town (#5).
- Plymouth: Best Galleries and Arts Scene (#5), Best Cross Country Skiing Town (#5), Best Town for a Biking Getaway (#5).
- Princeton: Best Shopping (#5).
- Ripon: Best Historic Town (#3).
- Sister Bay: Best Town for Dining (#1).
- Sturgeon Bay: Best Shopping (#3).
- Two Rivers: Best Town for a Biking Getaway (#2).
- Waupaca: Best Town for a Fishing Getaway (#4).
For a complete list of the winners, visit http://www.wondersofwisconsin.com.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
NFL teams vote to opt out of labor agreement
By Greg A. Bedard
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
National Football League owners voted unanimously this morning in Atlanta to terminate the collective bargaining agreement with the players following the 2010 season.
As a result, the league’s much-celebrated parity, which allows for small cities such as Green Bay and Buffalo to compete on an annual basis, might be on a death march as well.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
National Football League owners voted unanimously this morning in Atlanta to terminate the collective bargaining agreement with the players following the 2010 season.
As a result, the league’s much-celebrated parity, which allows for small cities such as Green Bay and Buffalo to compete on an annual basis, might be on a death march as well.
The 2008 and ’09 seasons will be unaffected by the owners’ decision. The 2010 season, if there is not a new agreement in place, will be played without a salary cap.
However, the players will feel a pinch as the service time needed to reach unrestricted free agency is increased from four to six years.
The NFL has had labor peace since the CBA was first ratified in 1993. Now, with a 32–0 vote by the owners, there is a very real possibility that 2011 could be interrupted by a lockout by the owners if the players don’t want to agree on several points. The biggest place of contention is how much of the revenue goes to the players. Under the current deal, the players receive 59 percent.
“The current labor agreement does not adequately recognize the costs of generating the revenues of which the players receive the largest share; nor does the agreement recognize that those costs have increased substantially — and at an ever increasing rate, in recent years during a difficult economic climate in our country,” the league said in a statement. “As a result, under the terms of the current agreement, the clubs’ incentive to invest in the game is threatened.
“There are substantial other elements of the deal that simply are not working. Our objective is to fix these problems in a new CBA, one that will provide adequate incentives to grow the game, ensure the unparalleled competitive balance that has sustained our fans’ interest, and afford the players fair and increasing compensation and benefits.”
NFL Players Association president Gene Upshaw has been briefing the players on the possible ramifications for months.
“We expected it,” Upshaw said on Sirius NFL Radio. “But it means that there is football through 2010, not through 2012. And it also means that, as they say during the draft, we’re on the clock. That’s basically what it means.”
The Packers have long been advocates of a salary cap and revenue sharing among all teams. While the Packers are in the top third in revenue at this time, they would be at a long-term disadvantage against teams from larger markets that have more abundant revenue streams if the salary cap were not in place.
Schneider National expanding short-haul service
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Schneider National, a Green Bay long-haul trucker, said today it is offering short-haul shipping to customers in the western United States.
Schneider launched Schneider Regional service in January 2008 and now provides service to Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Washington. It has regional centers in Fontana, Calif., Portland, Ore., Salt Lake City, and French Camp, Calif.
Over the next several years, Schneider said it plans to expand regional service throughout the country. Most immediate expansion plans include Texas and the southeastern U.S.
Schneider National, a Green Bay long-haul trucker, said today it is offering short-haul shipping to customers in the western United States.
Schneider launched Schneider Regional service in January 2008 and now provides service to Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Washington. It has regional centers in Fontana, Calif., Portland, Ore., Salt Lake City, and French Camp, Calif.
Over the next several years, Schneider said it plans to expand regional service throughout the country. Most immediate expansion plans include Texas and the southeastern U.S.
Integrys to sell Vilas County land
As part of its continuing Real Estate Asset Management strategy to divest itself of property it doesn't need, Integrys Energy Group, parent company of Wisconsin Public Service Corp., will look to divest about 350 of about 410 acres it owns on Lake Content, just north of St. Germain.
The company had discussions with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources about the agency purchasing the property, but the WDNR decided that such a purchase didn’t fit its goals.
“Ideally, by using conservation easements or other means, we’d be able to arrange for most of the property to transfer to an organization that could maintain its current characteristics,” said Steve Agnoli, Wisconsin Public Service regional customer service manager. “We’d maybe keep a handful of eight- to 10-acre lakeside lots for sale. We think that would be a good mix of preserving most of the land while helping the local economy. Of course, we’d like to work with the Town of St. Germain and Vilas County to determine their interests, as well.”
Integrys Energy expects to sell the land this year. Agnoli said the property is adjacent to about 60 acres and a lodge on the north side of Lake Content that will be retained. Wisconsin Public Service purchased the Lake Content property in 1953 and it has never been used for utility purposes or included in customer rates. Years later, ownership was transferred to the parent company, then called WPS Resources Corp., and now called Integrys Energy Group.
Agnoli said that any conservation organization or other party interested in the property should contact Patti Van Den Elzen of the company’s real estate department in Green Bay, (920) 433-1373, plvandenelzen@integrysgroup.com.
Ripon hospital to move to business park
The City of Ripon and Ripon Medical Center have reached an agreement in principle on the sale of nearly 10 acres of land in the city's business park for the construction of a new multi-million-dollar medical center and clinic, according to Mayor Aaron Kramer.
Through a collaborative agreement among Ripon Medical Center executives and board members, the Ripon Community Development Corp. and the City of Ripon, Ripon Medical Center is set to purchase a 10-acre land parcel in the new business park, at the corner of Wisconsin 44 and Douglas Street
“Ripon has needed groups to work together toward specific goals,” said Joan Karsten, president of the Ripon Medical Center Board of Directors. “Everyone involved has played an important role and been extremely positive throughout the process.”The decision to move the hospital from its location at 933 Newbury St. in Ripon rested on concerns surrounding the building’s dated infrastructure and extensive costs associated with remodeling the current facility. Ripon Medical Center feasibility studies also indicated that Ripon's community would support a new facility, adding credence to the project.
Ripon Medical Center’s new hospital will accommodate increased visitor parking, better community exposure, easier helicopter access and a more convenient location. The new facility will offer services identical to Ripon Medical Center’s current offerings, although clinic and specialty expansion are likely due as space considerations are no longer a limiting factor.Kramer believes that the new Ripon Medical Center facility will be a great addition to an already thriving community. “I think that Ripon needs certain fundamental elements in place to make it a better place to live and work, and healthcare is one of them,” he said. “Ripon Medical Center’s new facility plans just solidify one of the key components of making Ripon a great place to live and raise a family.”
A verbal agreement between Ripon Medical Center and the City of Ripon has been completed and remaining legal implications are being finalized. Final approval from all parties and purchasing terms are expected within the next 30 to 60 days.“I am amazed that we were able to put together a proposal and vision for the future that is a win–win for all parties involved,” said Kramer. “I can’t think of a more appropriate way to put a candle on the City of Ripon's 150th anniversary within the community. It is truly a watershed event.”
The Ripon Medical Center Board of Directors has given unanimous consensus toward approval, with the final Board approval vote set for Tuesday, May 27. Funding for the new facility will consist of a capital campaign headed by the Foundation for Ripon Medical Center and City of Ripon financing support. The building of this new facility will have no tax impact on the Ripon community.Although there are no decided estimates of when Ripon Medical Center will break ground at Kohl Business Park, planning members project a date of May 2009. When the new facility is complete, Ripon Medical Center’s previous building, owned by the City of Ripon, will likely be taken down and turned into residential lots, according to Kramer.
Kramer says the new hospital “will send a clear message to anyone outside Ripon that things are happening here and we have the people and the leadership in place to help move dreams into reality.”
Broadwind unit buys steel-making plant
By Tom Daykin
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
R.B.A. Inc., a Manitowoc industrial mechanical contractor, has acquired a steel fabrication facility in Clintonville, a move that more than doubles the company's manufacturing space.
The expansion will allow R.B.A. to meet increased demand for its fabricating services, according to a statement issued today by the company's corporate parent, Broadwind Energy Inc. (BWEN), based in Naperville, Ill. R.B.A. expects to hire 40 people over the next 12 months for the new facility, bringing its total work force to just under 100 employees.
The Clintonville facility also will house the corporate offices of Badger Transport Inc., a trucking firm that specializes in moving oversize loads. Broadwind announced in April it had agreed to buy Badger Transport. That acquisition is expected to close by the end of June.
Broadwind also announced that its president, Raymond Brickner III, is retiring. Brickner also is president of Tower Tech Systems Inc., another Broadwind subsidiary based in Manitowoc. Brickner founded Tower Tech in 2003 and founded R.B.A. in 1985.
State senator named railroad commissioner
By Stacy Forster and Patrick Marley
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
State Sen. Roger Breske (D–Eland) will be the state’s commissioner of railroads, Gov. Jim Doyle said Monday, meaning the state Senate will lose one of its longest-serving members and open a battle for Breske's seat this fall.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
State Sen. Roger Breske (D–Eland) will be the state’s commissioner of railroads, Gov. Jim Doyle said Monday, meaning the state Senate will lose one of its longest-serving members and open a battle for Breske's seat this fall.
Breske replaces Rodney Kreunen as commissioner; his term begins in June. Last year, Kreunen paid a $500 forfeiture for abusing his powers by trying to ride in a train cab that prompted a public altercation with a railroad president.
The term for Kreunen, who was originally appointed by then-Gov. Tommy Thompson, expired in 2005.
A press release on Breske’s appointment makes no mention of Kreunen.
Breske, first elected to the 12th Senate District in 1990, said in a statement he had “every intention” to seek re-election this fall until the opportunity arose to be the railroad commissioner. Breske had been facing a challenge from Republican Tom Tiffany — the same opponent he beat in 2004.
Breske, chairman of the Senate’s Transportation Committee, said the new job was a “natural fit.”
“Even though transportation system have been modernized with other forms, rail continues to link raw materials and finished products to our people and industries,” Breske said.
A former president of the Tavern League of Wisconsin, Breske has also been a leader on issues related to taverns, restaurants and alcohol regulation, and was a major opponent this session of a statewide smoking ban — a priority of Doyle’s.
Breske’s pay will nearly double, going from his legislative salary of $47,413 to $85,000 as railroad commissioner.
Monday, May 19, 2008
We Energies wind project turned on
We Energies' Blue Sky Green Field wind project in Fond du Lac County was placed into commercial service today.
The 88 turbines have a demonstrated capacity of 145 megawatts and are expected to generate more than 328 million emission-free kilowatt hours annually — enough to power 36,000 homes.
“Blue Sky Green Field is one of several targeted efforts we’re undertaking to generate more energy from renewable resources,” said Rick Kuester, executive vice president of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, the parent of We Energies. “We appreciate the support we have received from our customers and from the communities of Calumet and Marshfield and northeast Fond du Lac County in making the project a reality.”
At a cost of approximately $300 million, the Blue Sky Green Field project consists of 88 Vestas Wind Systems turbines spread across 10,600 acres. Each turbine is capable of producing 1.65 megawatts of electricity. The V82 turbines have a hub height of approximately 262 feet and a blade length of 134 feet. From the foundation to the tip, each tower has a height 397 feet.
We Energies continues to pursue the development of additional renewable energy to meet customer demand and to meet the state of Wisconsin’s Renewable Portfolio Standard, which requires utilities across the state to generate 10 percent of their energy from renewable sources by 2015.
“While the Blue Sky Green Field project is an important contributor to our renewable goals, We Energies will need to add several more renewable projects to meet the state mandate,” said Kuester.
Construction of Blue Sky Green Field began in June 2007. The project was built largely with the talents of Wisconsin companies and craft labor. Collectively, more than 400,000 labor hours were devoted to completing the project. Although the turbines are now in operation, We Energies will be working with the landowners in the area to ensure that proper restoration from construction activity is completed.
Economy grew 2.5% in past four quarters
According to the economic definition of “recession,” the U.S. is not in a recession.
Economic data from the U.S. Treasury Department show that the economy grew 2.5 percent over the past four quarters, including 0.6 percent in the fourth quarter of 2007 and the first quarter of 2008.
Most areas of the private-sector economy grew in the first quarter, including exports (annual rate of 5.5 percent), imports (2.5 percent) and consumption (1 percent). Federal government spending grew by 4.6 percent, and state and local government spending grew by 0.6 percent.
The biggest drop in real gross domestic product in the first quarter of 2008 was in residential construction, down 26.6 percent, followed by business structures, down 6.2 percent.
Productivity increased at an annual rate of 4.1 percent in manufacturing and 2.2 percent in nonfarm business.
Unit nonfarm labor costs increased 2.2 percent, hourly nonfarm compensation increased 4.4 percent, and the civilian Employment Cost Index increased 3 percent.
The personal saving rate was 0.4 percent in the first quarter and in the past four quarters.
In April, the unemployment rate dropped slightly from 5.1 percent in March to 5 percent, although total nonfarm payrolls dropped by 20,000.
The April Consumer Price Index increased 0.2 percent from March, and the annual year-to-date inflation rate is 3 percent.
Industrial production decreased 0.7 percent in April, with manufacturing production decreasing 0.8 percent.
Economic data from the U.S. Treasury Department show that the economy grew 2.5 percent over the past four quarters, including 0.6 percent in the fourth quarter of 2007 and the first quarter of 2008.
Most areas of the private-sector economy grew in the first quarter, including exports (annual rate of 5.5 percent), imports (2.5 percent) and consumption (1 percent). Federal government spending grew by 4.6 percent, and state and local government spending grew by 0.6 percent.
The biggest drop in real gross domestic product in the first quarter of 2008 was in residential construction, down 26.6 percent, followed by business structures, down 6.2 percent.
Productivity increased at an annual rate of 4.1 percent in manufacturing and 2.2 percent in nonfarm business.
Unit nonfarm labor costs increased 2.2 percent, hourly nonfarm compensation increased 4.4 percent, and the civilian Employment Cost Index increased 3 percent.
The personal saving rate was 0.4 percent in the first quarter and in the past four quarters.
In April, the unemployment rate dropped slightly from 5.1 percent in March to 5 percent, although total nonfarm payrolls dropped by 20,000.
The April Consumer Price Index increased 0.2 percent from March, and the annual year-to-date inflation rate is 3 percent.
Industrial production decreased 0.7 percent in April, with manufacturing production decreasing 0.8 percent.
Manitowoc ups bid for Enodis
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel/Associated Press
The bidding war for British cooking equipment supplier Enodis PLC heated up today, as Manitowoc Co. (MTW) came back with a second offer to trump an approach by another U.S. company, Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW).
Manitowoc raised its offer to 296 pence ($5.79) per share, valuing Enodis at 1.08 billion pounds ($2.1 billion). ITW had offered $2 billion.
Enodis had no immediate comment, but investors appeared to expect even higher bids.
Shares in the company, which supplies fryer systems to restaurants and retailers, including McDonald’s Corp. (MCD) and Wal–Mart Stores Inc. (WMT), rose 2.4 percent to 305.25 pence ($5.97) today.
Manitowoc, which makes cranes, marine, and food service equipment and is the biggest ice machine maker in the United States, opened the bidding on Enodis in April when it made an offer of 260 pence ($5.09) per share, which was accepted by the British company.
However, Enodis changed allegiance when Illinois Tool Works, a Glenview, Ill.-based manufacturer of engineered products with more than 800 business units in 49 countries, made a sweetened 282 pence bid, or about $2 billion, earlier this month.
Both of the suitors are including a 2 pence (4 cents) a share dividend as part of their bids.
Manitowoc said its offer was more than double Enodis’ share price on April 8, the day before it made its first approach and called on Enodis to recommend its new offer.
Illinois Tool Works said it noted the increased offer and was “considering its position with respect to Enodis and will make an announcement in due course.’
An Enodis–Manitowoc combination would give Manitowoc entry into two major new market segments — hot food service and food retail equipment. A successful purchase by Illinois Tool would nearly double that U.S. company’s food equipment business and make the combined food equipment business nearly a fifth of its total revenues.
Enodis, which has a range of food-service products includes cooking equipment, refrigeration units, and ice and beverage dispensing equipment that are used in fast-food restaurants, institutions, grocery stores and supermarkets, has successfully fought off a series of takeover bids over the past two years.
The company, which has manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe and Asia, and employs 6,800 workers, last week reported a profit of 9.7 million pounds ($19 million) for the six months ending March 29, compared with 17.3 million pounds in the comparable period a year ago. It attributed the drop in profit to the cost of restructuring.
The bidding war for British cooking equipment supplier Enodis PLC heated up today, as Manitowoc Co. (MTW) came back with a second offer to trump an approach by another U.S. company, Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW).
Manitowoc raised its offer to 296 pence ($5.79) per share, valuing Enodis at 1.08 billion pounds ($2.1 billion). ITW had offered $2 billion.
Enodis had no immediate comment, but investors appeared to expect even higher bids.
Shares in the company, which supplies fryer systems to restaurants and retailers, including McDonald’s Corp. (MCD) and Wal–Mart Stores Inc. (WMT), rose 2.4 percent to 305.25 pence ($5.97) today.
Manitowoc, which makes cranes, marine, and food service equipment and is the biggest ice machine maker in the United States, opened the bidding on Enodis in April when it made an offer of 260 pence ($5.09) per share, which was accepted by the British company.
However, Enodis changed allegiance when Illinois Tool Works, a Glenview, Ill.-based manufacturer of engineered products with more than 800 business units in 49 countries, made a sweetened 282 pence bid, or about $2 billion, earlier this month.
Both of the suitors are including a 2 pence (4 cents) a share dividend as part of their bids.
Manitowoc said its offer was more than double Enodis’ share price on April 8, the day before it made its first approach and called on Enodis to recommend its new offer.
Illinois Tool Works said it noted the increased offer and was “considering its position with respect to Enodis and will make an announcement in due course.’
An Enodis–Manitowoc combination would give Manitowoc entry into two major new market segments — hot food service and food retail equipment. A successful purchase by Illinois Tool would nearly double that U.S. company’s food equipment business and make the combined food equipment business nearly a fifth of its total revenues.
Enodis, which has a range of food-service products includes cooking equipment, refrigeration units, and ice and beverage dispensing equipment that are used in fast-food restaurants, institutions, grocery stores and supermarkets, has successfully fought off a series of takeover bids over the past two years.
The company, which has manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe and Asia, and employs 6,800 workers, last week reported a profit of 9.7 million pounds ($19 million) for the six months ending March 29, compared with 17.3 million pounds in the comparable period a year ago. It attributed the drop in profit to the cost of restructuring.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Doyle vetoes deepen state budget cuts
By Patrick Marley and Steven Walters
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle carved up a budget-repair deal with his veto pen today, allowing him to make deeper cuts than lawmakers approved and take money from the state’s transportation fund.
Lawmakers voted this week to make $69 million in cuts through mid-2009, but Doyle increased the cuts to $270 million with his veto powers. He also vetoed a restriction that limited how much could come from the state transportation fund.
Of that, state Budget Director Dave Schmiedicke said $103 million would come from the state transportation fund. But Doyle said his vetoes would still give transportation spending as much as it got in the two-year budget passed last October, because the Legislature this week voted to boost that spending by about $180 million.
No summer highway maintenance or construction contracts will be delayed as a result of his vetoes, Doyle said.
Legislators have long dueled with Doyle over how the transportation fund is used, saying the governor has hurt the integrity of the account by using it to help pay for schools.
The Democratic Senate and Republican Assembly passed a package this week to ease the state’s budget woes because tax collections are expected to be $652 million lower through mid-2009 than projected when the budget was passed in October.
Doyle had repeatedly told legislators he did not like major aspects of the bill, and he carried through with his warnings today.
Doyle vetoed a $125 million accounting move that legislators relied on that would have booked a payment to schools into the next fiscal year. Doyle said he would make cuts instead.
He also dialed down a plan by lawmakers to refinance the state’s settlement with the tobacco industry to get $209 million now at the expense of higher payments in the future. Doyle said he now hopes state government can get about $150 million from the refinancing deal, depending on its effective date and conditions in the bond market.
Doyle also left a bigger budget-ending emergency fund — about $100 million — than what lawmakers had called for. Under the Legislature's plan, the budget would have ended with a surplus of only $25 million — an amount the governor called dangerously low.
Doyle preserved all but $2 million of $22 million that was to be used to implement the federal Real ID act, which requires states to issue fraud-proof IDs. Lawmakers had voted to take all $22 million, which was raised with a $10 increase in driver's license fees that went into effect Jan. 1.
Doyle said he would keep an additional $18.6 million for child care subsidies in the bill that lawmakers gave him, but he left himself the flexibility to curb those subsidies in the future in case of shortfalls.
Doyle vetoed a property tax exemption for low-income housing included in the package because he said a full public debate was needed on the issue. Lawmakers have long disputed how to structure such an exemption, and some said the provision in the bill would have had the effect of making taxable property of what now is exempt.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle carved up a budget-repair deal with his veto pen today, allowing him to make deeper cuts than lawmakers approved and take money from the state’s transportation fund.
Lawmakers voted this week to make $69 million in cuts through mid-2009, but Doyle increased the cuts to $270 million with his veto powers. He also vetoed a restriction that limited how much could come from the state transportation fund.
Of that, state Budget Director Dave Schmiedicke said $103 million would come from the state transportation fund. But Doyle said his vetoes would still give transportation spending as much as it got in the two-year budget passed last October, because the Legislature this week voted to boost that spending by about $180 million.
No summer highway maintenance or construction contracts will be delayed as a result of his vetoes, Doyle said.
Legislators have long dueled with Doyle over how the transportation fund is used, saying the governor has hurt the integrity of the account by using it to help pay for schools.
The Democratic Senate and Republican Assembly passed a package this week to ease the state’s budget woes because tax collections are expected to be $652 million lower through mid-2009 than projected when the budget was passed in October.
Doyle had repeatedly told legislators he did not like major aspects of the bill, and he carried through with his warnings today.
Doyle vetoed a $125 million accounting move that legislators relied on that would have booked a payment to schools into the next fiscal year. Doyle said he would make cuts instead.
He also dialed down a plan by lawmakers to refinance the state’s settlement with the tobacco industry to get $209 million now at the expense of higher payments in the future. Doyle said he now hopes state government can get about $150 million from the refinancing deal, depending on its effective date and conditions in the bond market.
Doyle also left a bigger budget-ending emergency fund — about $100 million — than what lawmakers had called for. Under the Legislature's plan, the budget would have ended with a surplus of only $25 million — an amount the governor called dangerously low.
Doyle preserved all but $2 million of $22 million that was to be used to implement the federal Real ID act, which requires states to issue fraud-proof IDs. Lawmakers had voted to take all $22 million, which was raised with a $10 increase in driver's license fees that went into effect Jan. 1.
Doyle said he would keep an additional $18.6 million for child care subsidies in the bill that lawmakers gave him, but he left himself the flexibility to curb those subsidies in the future in case of shortfalls.
Doyle vetoed a property tax exemption for low-income housing included in the package because he said a full public debate was needed on the issue. Lawmakers have long disputed how to structure such an exemption, and some said the provision in the bill would have had the effect of making taxable property of what now is exempt.
Miron Construction to expand corporate office
Miron Construction Co. plans an expansion of its corporate office, located at 1471 McMahon Dr., Town of Menasha.
The project, which is scheduled to break ground in July, will have an impact on both the local economy and support the existing and future growth of Miron.
The project will add 46,000 square feet on to the existing 65,000-square-foot building. The addition will consist of two,two-story wings, which will extend from the west and east ends of the existing structure and allow for additional office space, conference rooms, and an expansion of the health and fitness center. Renovations will also take place inside the existing structure. Two unique features of the expansion will be the wood roof structure in an inverted-arch design, and the construction of two sky bridges, which will provide a walkway for employees between the different areas of the facility.
Another highlight of the expansion is the health and fitness center, which will feature an aerobics room and encompass 3,800 square feet. This new center will be 2,500 square feet larger than the current fitness space.
The new expansion will be built to LEED standards, and the renovation of the existing structure will also incorporate sustainable elements. Features will include outdoor sunshades on the glass walls, an immense amount of daylighting, and a focus will be placed on energy efficiency. Miron has incorporated numerous “green” initiatives into its corporate culture, and this new and renovated space will reflect that.
“Miron can attribute the growth of the company to our incredible employees who understand the importance and value of providing superior service,” says David G. Voss, Jr., president of Miron. “In placing an immense amount of value on creating unforgettable client experiences, our organization has undergone tremendous growth. In fact, one of the reasons for this expansion is to provide sufficient space for our existing staff while also looking to the future to allow for further expansion of our team, services and technological capabilities. Ultimately, creating a comfortable and welcoming working environment that grows along with our family is extremely important to us as a company.”
Voss also notes the importance of being able to provide conference and training rooms for non-profits and schools across the Fox Valley. In the past, schools have used the main atrium for school events and non-profits have utilized the training and conference rooms for meetings. “We value this opportunity to continue to contribute to the community,” he says.
Cost for the building addition, building renovations and site development is estimated at $6 million. With plans to use local materials, and to hold 30 to 40 subcontractor contracts, the local economy will also benefit from the expansion. Along with the additional space, the project will allow for continued future growth at Miron, providing space for an additional 75 employees. The project is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2009.
Tim Kippenhan, vice president of Miron, says the corporate office expansion will support future construction work out of the corporate office, and regional office support in Wausau and Madison, Wis., and Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
“Miron continues to lead with new innovations in construction and needed the support of additional space to allow for this,” he says. “It’s evident how quickly the construction industry is changing with technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and a focus on preconstruction activities to enhance the services provided to our clients. With this new addition, we are able to grow and integrate these capabilities even further into our business strategies and support our regional efforts, as well as numerous recently acquired national accounts.”
The architectural firm chosen for the expansion project is Wenzler Architects based in Milwaukee. The firm designed the original building, which was built in 2001.
The project, which is scheduled to break ground in July, will have an impact on both the local economy and support the existing and future growth of Miron.
The project will add 46,000 square feet on to the existing 65,000-square-foot building. The addition will consist of two,two-story wings, which will extend from the west and east ends of the existing structure and allow for additional office space, conference rooms, and an expansion of the health and fitness center. Renovations will also take place inside the existing structure. Two unique features of the expansion will be the wood roof structure in an inverted-arch design, and the construction of two sky bridges, which will provide a walkway for employees between the different areas of the facility.
Another highlight of the expansion is the health and fitness center, which will feature an aerobics room and encompass 3,800 square feet. This new center will be 2,500 square feet larger than the current fitness space.
The new expansion will be built to LEED standards, and the renovation of the existing structure will also incorporate sustainable elements. Features will include outdoor sunshades on the glass walls, an immense amount of daylighting, and a focus will be placed on energy efficiency. Miron has incorporated numerous “green” initiatives into its corporate culture, and this new and renovated space will reflect that.
“Miron can attribute the growth of the company to our incredible employees who understand the importance and value of providing superior service,” says David G. Voss, Jr., president of Miron. “In placing an immense amount of value on creating unforgettable client experiences, our organization has undergone tremendous growth. In fact, one of the reasons for this expansion is to provide sufficient space for our existing staff while also looking to the future to allow for further expansion of our team, services and technological capabilities. Ultimately, creating a comfortable and welcoming working environment that grows along with our family is extremely important to us as a company.”
Voss also notes the importance of being able to provide conference and training rooms for non-profits and schools across the Fox Valley. In the past, schools have used the main atrium for school events and non-profits have utilized the training and conference rooms for meetings. “We value this opportunity to continue to contribute to the community,” he says.
Cost for the building addition, building renovations and site development is estimated at $6 million. With plans to use local materials, and to hold 30 to 40 subcontractor contracts, the local economy will also benefit from the expansion. Along with the additional space, the project will allow for continued future growth at Miron, providing space for an additional 75 employees. The project is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2009.
Tim Kippenhan, vice president of Miron, says the corporate office expansion will support future construction work out of the corporate office, and regional office support in Wausau and Madison, Wis., and Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
“Miron continues to lead with new innovations in construction and needed the support of additional space to allow for this,” he says. “It’s evident how quickly the construction industry is changing with technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and a focus on preconstruction activities to enhance the services provided to our clients. With this new addition, we are able to grow and integrate these capabilities even further into our business strategies and support our regional efforts, as well as numerous recently acquired national accounts.”
The architectural firm chosen for the expansion project is Wenzler Architects based in Milwaukee. The firm designed the original building, which was built in 2001.
Nuclear reactors online again
By Thomas Content
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
The Point Beach nuclear plant’s Unit 2 reactor returned to full power Thursday after a refueling outage that lasted more than five weeks, plant owner FPL Energy Inc. said.
The Point Beach reactor and the nearby Kewaunee nuclear plant, which resumed generating electricity earlier this week, have both completed their spring shutdowns for refueling and maintenance.
Power generated at Point Beach is sold to Milwaukee-based We Energies, which sold the plant to FPL last year.
The Kewaunee plant is owned by Dominion Resources Inc. and sells its electricity to Wisconsin Power & Light Co. of Madison and Wisconsin Public Service Corp. of Green Bay. The Kewaunee plant was operating at 99% power Thursday morning, according to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Completion of the refuelings means that Kewaunee and both Point Beach reactors are running in advance of summer, when demand for electricity spikes during extended periods of hot weather.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
The Point Beach nuclear plant’s Unit 2 reactor returned to full power Thursday after a refueling outage that lasted more than five weeks, plant owner FPL Energy Inc. said.
The Point Beach reactor and the nearby Kewaunee nuclear plant, which resumed generating electricity earlier this week, have both completed their spring shutdowns for refueling and maintenance.
Power generated at Point Beach is sold to Milwaukee-based We Energies, which sold the plant to FPL last year.
The Kewaunee plant is owned by Dominion Resources Inc. and sells its electricity to Wisconsin Power & Light Co. of Madison and Wisconsin Public Service Corp. of Green Bay. The Kewaunee plant was operating at 99% power Thursday morning, according to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Completion of the refuelings means that Kewaunee and both Point Beach reactors are running in advance of summer, when demand for electricity spikes during extended periods of hot weather.
Hoffmaster Group closing Appleton plant, expanding in Clintonville
Hoffmaster Group is closing its Appleton plant and expanding its Clintonville plant.
The Appleton plant employs 300, while the Clintonville plant employs 200. Company officials said the two facilities produce the same product, and expanding the Clintonville plant was easier.
The two facilities are part of Hoffmaster’s Creative/Converting Consumer Division, which also has a plant in Indianapolis. Hoffmaster’s Foodservice Division is based in Oshkosh.
The Appleton plant employs 300, while the Clintonville plant employs 200. Company officials said the two facilities produce the same product, and expanding the Clintonville plant was easier.
The two facilities are part of Hoffmaster’s Creative/Converting Consumer Division, which also has a plant in Indianapolis. Hoffmaster’s Foodservice Division is based in Oshkosh.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
CEO leaving Jewelers Mutual for Integrity Mutual
By Avrum D. Lank
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Darin Kath will become president and chief executive officer of Integrity Mutual Insurance Co. of Appleton, after he leaves similar positions at Jewelers Mutual Insurance Co. in Neenah.
At Integrity, Kath will replace Rick Schinler, who is retiring.
Kath has resigned as president and chief executive officer of Jewelers Mutual. He will be replaced on an interim basis by Patti Geolat, who has been a director of the firm since 1994 and chairman since 2000.
In a news release, Jewelers Mutual said Kath “will be joining another Wisconsin property/casualty insurer as its president and CEO.”
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Darin Kath will become president and chief executive officer of Integrity Mutual Insurance Co. of Appleton, after he leaves similar positions at Jewelers Mutual Insurance Co. in Neenah.
At Integrity, Kath will replace Rick Schinler, who is retiring.
Kath has resigned as president and chief executive officer of Jewelers Mutual. He will be replaced on an interim basis by Patti Geolat, who has been a director of the firm since 1994 and chairman since 2000.
In a news release, Jewelers Mutual said Kath “will be joining another Wisconsin property/casualty insurer as its president and CEO.”
State jobless rate at 4.4% in April
By Joel Dresang
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Wisconsin’s unemployment rate dipped last month, although the number of jobs also declined from the year before, according to preliminary data released today by the state Department of Workforce Development.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Wisconsin’s unemployment rate dipped last month, although the number of jobs also declined from the year before, according to preliminary data released today by the state Department of Workforce Development.
The unemployment rate dropped to 4.4 percent in April from 5.3 percent in April 2007. The unemployment rate is based on household surveys and reflects the degree to which jobseekers are finding work.
A separate count of payroll data showed a decrease of 18,800 jobs since April 2007, led by a 9,200-job fall in manufacturing. Educational and health services continued to add jobs, with a growth of 10,100 jobs in the last month.
Falling in with seasonal patterns, employers in most industries expanded jobs since March, when the unadjusted unemployment rate was 5.6%.
“Wisconsin’s labor market improved significantly in April, as the construction industry enjoyed warmer weather and manufacturing continued to see strong exports, due in part to a weaker dollar,” Workforce Development Secretary Roberta Gassman said in a statement. “This is the second consecutive month that we’ve seen improvement in both construction and manufacturing, and we look forward to continued growth. Employment in the leisure and hospitality sector also is improving, as the summer vacation season approaches.”
Economic stats: Real earnings down
Real average weekly earnings fell by 0.5 percent from March to April after seasonal adjustment, according to preliminary data released Wednesday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor.
A 0.1 percent increase in average hourly earnings was offset by a 0.3 percent decrease in average weekly hours and a 0.2 percent increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers.
A 0.1 percent increase in average hourly earnings was offset by a 0.3 percent decrease in average weekly hours and a 0.2 percent increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers.
On a seasonally adjusted basis the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.2 percent in April after increasing 0.3 percent in March. The index for all items less food and energy increased 0.1 percent, following an increase of 0.2 percent in March.
Alderman/supervisor running for Assembly
Green Bay Ald. and Brown County Sup. Tony Theisen announced Wednesday he is running for the 88th Assembly District seat won by Rep. Jim Soletski (D–Green Bay) in 2006.
“Last year, Wisconsin had the largest budget deficit per capita in the nation and remains in the top 10 most taxed states,” said Theisen at a reception at Titletown Brewery in Green Bay. He added that the state Transportation Fund has served as Wisconsin’s “payday loan store,” covering more than $1 billion in budget shortfalls.
“We had a very do-nothing Assembly this time under the Republican leadership, and I think we're going to have a clear choice in Northeastern Wisconsin,” Soletski told WBAY-TV. “If you want stonewalling and foot-dragging, then you would vote for Republicans, and if you want to get something done, then you’d vote for Democrats.”
Theisen has been on the City Council for 24 years and the County Board for 14 years.
“Last year, Wisconsin had the largest budget deficit per capita in the nation and remains in the top 10 most taxed states,” said Theisen at a reception at Titletown Brewery in Green Bay. He added that the state Transportation Fund has served as Wisconsin’s “payday loan store,” covering more than $1 billion in budget shortfalls.
“We had a very do-nothing Assembly this time under the Republican leadership, and I think we're going to have a clear choice in Northeastern Wisconsin,” Soletski told WBAY-TV. “If you want stonewalling and foot-dragging, then you would vote for Republicans, and if you want to get something done, then you’d vote for Democrats.”
Theisen has been on the City Council for 24 years and the County Board for 14 years.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Assembly approves budget package
By Patrick Marley
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
The Assembly narrowly approved a budget-repair package today, sending it to Gov. Jim Doyle, who has pledged to revise it with vetoes.
Democrats joined Republicans who control the house to push the bill through on a 51–46 vote.
Members of both parties bashed the deal on the Assembly floor, calling it irresponsible for refinancing the state’s tobacco settlement payments and not making tougher budget cuts.
The Democratic governor has said he dislikes major aspects of the bill and will rework it with his powerful veto pen.
Lawmakers passed a two-year budget in October, but corrections are because tax collections are now expected to be $652 million less than originally projected.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
The Assembly narrowly approved a budget-repair package today, sending it to Gov. Jim Doyle, who has pledged to revise it with vetoes.
Democrats joined Republicans who control the house to push the bill through on a 51–46 vote.
Members of both parties bashed the deal on the Assembly floor, calling it irresponsible for refinancing the state’s tobacco settlement payments and not making tougher budget cuts.
The Democratic governor has said he dislikes major aspects of the bill and will rework it with his powerful veto pen.
Lawmakers passed a two-year budget in October, but corrections are because tax collections are now expected to be $652 million less than originally projected.
Papermaker NewPage turns a profit
By Joel Dresang
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Reporting results of its first full quarter since acquiring Wisconsin-based paper mills, NewPage Corp. announced improved earnings.
Net income for the Miamisburg, Ohio-based NewPage grew to $7 million from a loss of $20 million in the first quarter of 2007.
Sales more than doubled to $1.2 million for the first quarter of 2008 from $476 million the year before.
NewPage's acquisition of Stora Enso North America accounted for the bulk of sales growth, but the company also reported strong demand and increased sales prices for boosting performance.
NewPage is North America’s largest producer of coated paper used for printing catalogs and magazines. Its Wisconsin operations include mills in Wisconsin Rapids, Biron, Stevens Point, Whiting, Kimberly, and Niagara, although it plans to close the Niagara mill later this year.
Last week, NewPage filed paperwork for an initial public stock offering.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Reporting results of its first full quarter since acquiring Wisconsin-based paper mills, NewPage Corp. announced improved earnings.
Net income for the Miamisburg, Ohio-based NewPage grew to $7 million from a loss of $20 million in the first quarter of 2007.
Sales more than doubled to $1.2 million for the first quarter of 2008 from $476 million the year before.
NewPage's acquisition of Stora Enso North America accounted for the bulk of sales growth, but the company also reported strong demand and increased sales prices for boosting performance.
NewPage is North America’s largest producer of coated paper used for printing catalogs and magazines. Its Wisconsin operations include mills in Wisconsin Rapids, Biron, Stevens Point, Whiting, Kimberly, and Niagara, although it plans to close the Niagara mill later this year.
Last week, NewPage filed paperwork for an initial public stock offering.
Tufco second earnings quadruple
By Joel Dresang
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Citing payoff from efforts to increase operating efficiency, wipes manufacturer Tufco Technologies Inc. of Green Bay reported increased second-quarter earnings Tuesday.
Net income grew to $191,000, or 4 cents a share, from $47,000 or 1 cent, in second quarter 2007. Sales increased by 7% to $29.6 million from $27.6 million.
Through the first six months of Tufco’s fiscal year, net income rose to $231,000 or 5 cents a share, from $178,000, or 4 cents, in the first half of 2007. Sales declined slightly to $54.2 million from $54.6 million.
Besides making wipes for leading consumer products marketers, Tufco also has specialty printing services and business imaging products.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Citing payoff from efforts to increase operating efficiency, wipes manufacturer Tufco Technologies Inc. of Green Bay reported increased second-quarter earnings Tuesday.
Net income grew to $191,000, or 4 cents a share, from $47,000 or 1 cent, in second quarter 2007. Sales increased by 7% to $29.6 million from $27.6 million.
Through the first six months of Tufco’s fiscal year, net income rose to $231,000 or 5 cents a share, from $178,000, or 4 cents, in the first half of 2007. Sales declined slightly to $54.2 million from $54.6 million.
Besides making wipes for leading consumer products marketers, Tufco also has specialty printing services and business imaging products.
Packers Hall of Fame dinner sold out
The Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, Inc., announced Tuesday the 38th Hall of Fame Induction Banquet, in the Lambeau Field Atrium Saturday, July 19, has been sold out.
This year’s banquet features the 
enshrinement of former nose tackle Gilbert Brown (top left photo), center Frank Winters (right photo) and video director Al Treml. This year’s presenters are Santana Dotson (to present Brown), Brett Favre (Winters) and Bart Starr (Treml).
Larry McCarren, game analyst on the Packers Radio Network and sports director at WFRV-TV in
In his second career, McCarren has been sports director at WFRV-TV since 1988 and a member of the Packers’ radio team since 1995. He has been voted
In addition to the induction of Brown, Winters and Treml, the Hall of Fame formally will recognize this year’s Fan honoree, Richard “Ike” Eisenhauer.
The Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, Inc., Golf Classic, at The Bull in
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Appleton earns Wisconsin’s top international trade award
Appleton received the 2008 Governor’s Export Achievement Award for large manufacturing exporters from Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle at the 44th annual Wisconsin International Trade Conference held in Milwaukee Tuesday.
“We are focused on expanding our international market presence,” said Sarah Macdonald, vice president and general manager of Appleton’s International Division, who accepted the honor on behalf of the company. “We are encouraged with the success we have achieved so far and honored by the recognition those achievements have earned. This award is a tribute to the customer focused approach that all of our employees use in their daily work.”
The Governor’s Award, presented in several categories, honors Wisconsin-based companies and organizations that have achieved extraordinary results in international markets or have contributed to Wisconsin’s ability to compete globally. Entities are selected for innovation, effectiveness and special effort in growing exports, and enhancing employment, the economy and the international prestige of Wisconsin.
“I'm proud to recognize Wisconsin companies and institutions that have demonstrated leadership and innovation in responding successfully to international market challenges,” said Doyle. “They are building a great name for Wisconsin around the globe.”
Appleton became a two-time recipient of the Governor’s Export Achievement Award by capturing the distinction for large manufacturing exporters in 2008, as it also did in 1996. Appleton sells its paper products to customers in more than 70 companies. The company’s international revenue grew by more than 70 percent from 2005 to 2007.
“We are focused on expanding our international market presence,” said Sarah Macdonald, vice president and general manager of Appleton’s International Division, who accepted the honor on behalf of the company. “We are encouraged with the success we have achieved so far and honored by the recognition those achievements have earned. This award is a tribute to the customer focused approach that all of our employees use in their daily work.”
The Governor’s Award, presented in several categories, honors Wisconsin-based companies and organizations that have achieved extraordinary results in international markets or have contributed to Wisconsin’s ability to compete globally. Entities are selected for innovation, effectiveness and special effort in growing exports, and enhancing employment, the economy and the international prestige of Wisconsin.
“I'm proud to recognize Wisconsin companies and institutions that have demonstrated leadership and innovation in responding successfully to international market challenges,” said Doyle. “They are building a great name for Wisconsin around the globe.”
Appleton became a two-time recipient of the Governor’s Export Achievement Award by capturing the distinction for large manufacturing exporters in 2008, as it also did in 1996. Appleton sells its paper products to customers in more than 70 companies. The company’s international revenue grew by more than 70 percent from 2005 to 2007.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Long-term deficit grows as economy slows
By Steven Walters
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
State government faces a long-term imbalance between spending commitments and tax collections of almost $1.7 billion, even if the budget-repair bill being debated in the Legislature becomes law, lawmakers were told today.
Bob Lang, director of the Legislative Fiscal Bureau, gave Senate Republicans that estimate of the so-called “structural deficit,” which is the projected shortfall Gov. Jim Doyle and legislators face next year when they must debate and pass the 2009–11 budget.
First, however, Doyle and legislators must fix a $652 million shortfall in tax collections in the current budget, which ends in mid-2009. The Senate was scheduled to debate a budget-repair bill today; the Assembly will take up the same bill on Wednesday.
Lang said the $1.7 billion long-term deficit is almost entirely attributable to the slowing economy. Tax collections are only expected to grow by 2 percent, which is less than half of the average annual growth of 5.5 percent. Every 1 percent lag in tax collections means state government collects $130 million less in taxes, Lang said.
“It will be a difficult budget in 2009–11, to say the least, unless the economy really turns around,” Lang told Senate Republicans.
The new $1.7 billion structural deficit is about $800 million higher than the estimate made in October, when the Legislature and Doyle agreed on the current state budget.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
State government faces a long-term imbalance between spending commitments and tax collections of almost $1.7 billion, even if the budget-repair bill being debated in the Legislature becomes law, lawmakers were told today.
Bob Lang, director of the Legislative Fiscal Bureau, gave Senate Republicans that estimate of the so-called “structural deficit,” which is the projected shortfall Gov. Jim Doyle and legislators face next year when they must debate and pass the 2009–11 budget.
First, however, Doyle and legislators must fix a $652 million shortfall in tax collections in the current budget, which ends in mid-2009. The Senate was scheduled to debate a budget-repair bill today; the Assembly will take up the same bill on Wednesday.
Lang said the $1.7 billion long-term deficit is almost entirely attributable to the slowing economy. Tax collections are only expected to grow by 2 percent, which is less than half of the average annual growth of 5.5 percent. Every 1 percent lag in tax collections means state government collects $130 million less in taxes, Lang said.
“It will be a difficult budget in 2009–11, to say the least, unless the economy really turns around,” Lang told Senate Republicans.
The new $1.7 billion structural deficit is about $800 million higher than the estimate made in October, when the Legislature and Doyle agreed on the current state budget.
Flagpole needs work due to swaying
The flagpole at Acuity in Sheboygan (“The largest flag in the U.S. flies thanks to Wisconsin companies,” Marketplace, March 18) is being modified after substantial swaying was observed April 8.
The 338-foot pole, designed by Barr Engineering and installed by Oscar J. Boldt Construction, swayed during 10-mph winds that morning, although it reportedly did not sway in much stronger winds later that day. The pole is built to withstand speeds of 100 mph.
Once the work is complete in May, a 7,200-square-foot 300-pound U.S. flag will fly from the flagpole.
The 338-foot pole, designed by Barr Engineering and installed by Oscar J. Boldt Construction, swayed during 10-mph winds that morning, although it reportedly did not sway in much stronger winds later that day. The pole is built to withstand speeds of 100 mph.
Once the work is complete in May, a 7,200-square-foot 300-pound U.S. flag will fly from the flagpole.
Town considering merging police
A Town of Grand Chute analysis of police department merger proposals favors merging with the Appleton Police Department over merging with the Outagamie County Sheriff’s Department.
The town’s police department doesn’t have a permanent police chief and is short of patrol officers according to police officials. The Appleton proposal would result in three officers being assigned to Grand Chute, and the town getting two seats on a six-member police commission.
The county proposal would dedicate four officers to the town.
The analysis considered three factors the most — special services, “ability to address neighborhoods in transition,” and accountability to the town.
“If the APD proposal can provide these additional needed services more cost effectively than duplicating these resources in our own department, it would be appropriate for us to initiate negotiations with APD and see if we can achieve these goals through a possible merger,” wrote town administrator Mark Rohloff in a memo to the Grand Chute board.
Merger talks have been delayed until city residents get an opportunity to express concerns or ideas. Two information sessions are scheduled before the city council’s May 21 meeting.
The town’s police department doesn’t have a permanent police chief and is short of patrol officers according to police officials. The Appleton proposal would result in three officers being assigned to Grand Chute, and the town getting two seats on a six-member police commission.
The county proposal would dedicate four officers to the town.
The analysis considered three factors the most — special services, “ability to address neighborhoods in transition,” and accountability to the town.
“If the APD proposal can provide these additional needed services more cost effectively than duplicating these resources in our own department, it would be appropriate for us to initiate negotiations with APD and see if we can achieve these goals through a possible merger,” wrote town administrator Mark Rohloff in a memo to the Grand Chute board.
Merger talks have been delayed until city residents get an opportunity to express concerns or ideas. Two information sessions are scheduled before the city council’s May 21 meeting.
Wind power in Lake Michigan proposed
Two energy groups are proposing installing wind turbines in Lake Michigan between Kewaunee and Sheboygan.
Ewindfarm Inc. of California proposes to install 610 turbines one to two miles off the shore between Kewaunee and Kenosha. An additional developer proposes to build “a couple hundred” turbines “within a few miles of shore,” according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
There are no water-based wind projects in the U.S., although wind projects have been proposed off Cape Cod and on Lake Erie in Ohio. Interest in offshore projects is increasing because several Wisconsin counties have passed ordinances restricting wind farm projects.
Ewindfarm Inc. of California proposes to install 610 turbines one to two miles off the shore between Kewaunee and Kenosha. An additional developer proposes to build “a couple hundred” turbines “within a few miles of shore,” according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
There are no water-based wind projects in the U.S., although wind projects have been proposed off Cape Cod and on Lake Erie in Ohio. Interest in offshore projects is increasing because several Wisconsin counties have passed ordinances restricting wind farm projects.
Towns considering merging into village
The Town of Harrison, in Calumet County, and the Town of Buchanan, in Outagamie County, are discussing merging the two towns to preserve what’s left of the two towns’ land area.
The towns have lost territory to, in Buchanan’s case, Kimberly and Kaukauna and, in Harrison’s case, Appleton, Menasha and Sherwood through annexation. Merging would create a village of more than 15,000 residents.
Costs to merge are estimated at almost $200,000.
The towns have lost territory to, in Buchanan’s case, Kimberly and Kaukauna and, in Harrison’s case, Appleton, Menasha and Sherwood through annexation. Merging would create a village of more than 15,000 residents.
Costs to merge are estimated at almost $200,000.
WTA: State health care spending greater than U.S.
Over 20 years ending in the mid-2000s, Wisconsin went from spending less than the national average on health care to spending more than the national average, according to the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance.
The WTA’s report identifies two main factors for the increased spending — per capita hospital spending, which went from 16.2 percent less than average in 1985 to 8.3 percent more than average by 2004, and per capita spending on physician and clinical services, which grew from 2.8 percent less than average to 12.4 percent more than average.
Despite rising spending, the percentage of Wisconsin residents with health insurance has grown and remains better than the national average. In 1999, 9.5 percent of Wisconsin residents and 14 percent of the U.S. were uninsured; by 2006, Wisconsin’s uninsured rate dropped to 8.8 percent, but the U.S.’ increased to 15.8 percent.
The report credits a higher rate of employer-covered insurance in Wisconsin, 67.1 percent vs. 59.7 percent in the U.S., and state health insurance programs; BadgerCare enrollments increased 254 percent and Medicaid enrollments increased 86 percent between 1999 and 2006.
The WTA’s report identifies two main factors for the increased spending — per capita hospital spending, which went from 16.2 percent less than average in 1985 to 8.3 percent more than average by 2004, and per capita spending on physician and clinical services, which grew from 2.8 percent less than average to 12.4 percent more than average.
Despite rising spending, the percentage of Wisconsin residents with health insurance has grown and remains better than the national average. In 1999, 9.5 percent of Wisconsin residents and 14 percent of the U.S. were uninsured; by 2006, Wisconsin’s uninsured rate dropped to 8.8 percent, but the U.S.’ increased to 15.8 percent.
The report credits a higher rate of employer-covered insurance in Wisconsin, 67.1 percent vs. 59.7 percent in the U.S., and state health insurance programs; BadgerCare enrollments increased 254 percent and Medicaid enrollments increased 86 percent between 1999 and 2006.
Monday, May 12, 2008
State budget repair deal reached
By Steven Walters
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Legislative leaders announced a budget-repair package today that nets $209 million from refinancing future payments from cigarette and tobacco manufacturers and delays a $125 million payment for public schools, pushing it into the next budget cycle.
The package is scheduled for quick votes this week in the Assembly and Senate to fix a $652 million shortfall in tax collections that were projected when the budget was adopted last fall.
Approval by the Legislature is also to keep Gov. Jim Doyle from delaying or canceling summer highway maintenance and construction contracts that total up to $261 million.
The deal was announced by Senate Majority Leader Russ Decker (D–Weston), Assembly Speaker Mike Huebsch (R–West Salem) and Democratic Rep. Jim Kreuser (D–Kenosha). The Republican-controlled Assembly will need some Democrats to vote for the budget deal, because some Republicans are expected to reject it.
Legislative leaders said the package would:
A Kreuser aide said the governor had not indicated whether he would veto any of the budget-repair provisions. Doyle is expected to address the package later today.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Legislative leaders announced a budget-repair package today that nets $209 million from refinancing future payments from cigarette and tobacco manufacturers and delays a $125 million payment for public schools, pushing it into the next budget cycle.
The package is scheduled for quick votes this week in the Assembly and Senate to fix a $652 million shortfall in tax collections that were projected when the budget was adopted last fall.
Approval by the Legislature is also to keep Gov. Jim Doyle from delaying or canceling summer highway maintenance and construction contracts that total up to $261 million.
The deal was announced by Senate Majority Leader Russ Decker (D–Weston), Assembly Speaker Mike Huebsch (R–West Salem) and Democratic Rep. Jim Kreuser (D–Kenosha). The Republican-controlled Assembly will need some Democrats to vote for the budget deal, because some Republicans are expected to reject it.
Legislative leaders said the package would:
- Net $209 million by paying off bonds, approved in 2001, that sold off the first round of payments from cigarette and tobacco manufacturers. The new deal would issue bonds for expected payments from those manufacturers after 2018.
- Delay $125 million in aid to public schools until July 2009, so it doesn't count as an expense in the current two-year budget. Doyle has repeatedly said he opposes that delay, which raises the possibility that he may veto it outright.
- Lower balances in surplus state accounts, which were designed as a hedge against emergencies, by $97 million. The required budget-ending balance would drop from $65 million to $25 million.
- Require $69 million in spending cuts in current programs.
- Use $22 million raised by increases in the cost of drivers' license fees. The money was to be used to implement plans related to the federal Real ID requirements, but the money became available when the federal government extended the deadline.
A Kreuser aide said the governor had not indicated whether he would veto any of the budget-repair provisions. Doyle is expected to address the package later today.
Alliance Laundry reports best first quarter ever
Alliance Laundry Holdings LLC of Ripon announced today its most profitable first quarter in the company’s history.
Net revenues for the quarter ended March 31 increased $13.4 million, or 13.8%, to $109.9 million from $96.5 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2007. Alliance’s net income for the quarter ended March 31 was $1.9 million as compared to $1.5 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2007. Adjusted EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization) for the quarter ended March 31 increased $2.0 million to $17.7 million from $15.7 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2007.
“I am pleased to be able to report the best first quarter the Company has ever had, particularly given the overall economic conditions we’re experiencing in the United States,” CEO Thomas F. L’Esperance said. “Net Revenues in all of our major U.S. sales channels were up year over year. These results are a remarkable testament to the strength of our brands, the quality of our products, the resiliency of the markets we serve and our employees’ unrivaled commitment to our Customer One program.”
The overall net revenue increase of $13.4 million was attributable to higher commercial laundry revenues of $13.5 million, higher service parts revenue of $600,000, and higher European Operations revenue of $1.6 million, partially offset by higher worldwide sales eliminations of $2.3 million. The increase in commercial laundry revenues includes $8.6 million of higher North American commercial equipment revenue, $4.7 million of higher international revenue and $100,000 of higher earnings from Alliance’s off-balance-sheet equipment financing program.
Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues increased to 29.3% for the quarter ended March 31 from 27.7% for the quarter ended March 31, 2007, driven by higher sales volume and selling prices, partially offset by higher raw material and product distribution costs.
Net revenues for the quarter ended March 31 increased $13.4 million, or 13.8%, to $109.9 million from $96.5 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2007. Alliance’s net income for the quarter ended March 31 was $1.9 million as compared to $1.5 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2007. Adjusted EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization) for the quarter ended March 31 increased $2.0 million to $17.7 million from $15.7 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2007.
“I am pleased to be able to report the best first quarter the Company has ever had, particularly given the overall economic conditions we’re experiencing in the United States,” CEO Thomas F. L’Esperance said. “Net Revenues in all of our major U.S. sales channels were up year over year. These results are a remarkable testament to the strength of our brands, the quality of our products, the resiliency of the markets we serve and our employees’ unrivaled commitment to our Customer One program.”
The overall net revenue increase of $13.4 million was attributable to higher commercial laundry revenues of $13.5 million, higher service parts revenue of $600,000, and higher European Operations revenue of $1.6 million, partially offset by higher worldwide sales eliminations of $2.3 million. The increase in commercial laundry revenues includes $8.6 million of higher North American commercial equipment revenue, $4.7 million of higher international revenue and $100,000 of higher earnings from Alliance’s off-balance-sheet equipment financing program.
Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues increased to 29.3% for the quarter ended March 31 from 27.7% for the quarter ended March 31, 2007, driven by higher sales volume and selling prices, partially offset by higher raw material and product distribution costs.
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