MKE County exec Crowley graduates from UWM (MILWAUKEE)
A special commencement this weekend at UW-Milwaukee as county executive David Crowley both graduated and gave the commencement address. Speaking on W I S N’s Upfront, Crowley says it was vital to him to complete his degree. He says it felt like a glass ceiling was hanging over him because he didn’t have that diploma. Crowley he originally failed out of the UW system while a staffer in state government, but his second time around he says he dedicated himself to completing the degree and connecting with his fellow students in the process.
Enbridge Energy cleaning up 70,000 gallon oil leak (JEFFERSON COUNTY)
Enbridge Energy is cleaning up after an extended oil leak in Jefferson County. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports 70-thousand gallons of oil leaked from a pipeline connection between Superior Wisconsin and a refinery in Indiana. That leak was discovered in November, but a federal indecent report states the leak was likely happening for “an extended period.” Enbridge tells the paper the cleanup is still underway. A fight over the fate of a pipeline near the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa reservation is still ongoing.
Sandhill Crane committee makes recommendation (MADISON)
A legislative study committee on sandhill cranes has made its recommendation. Following a fifth and final meeting last week, the panel of lawmakers, ag and conservation groups last week advanced a draft bill that would authorize sandhill crane hunt and fund compensation to farmers for crop losses. State Senator Romaine Quinn of Cameron said he thinks that represents the best opportunity for any movement to address the issue. But state Senator Mark Spreitzer of Beloit said he doesn’t see a bill than includes hunting the cranes, passing. The panel voted against a stand-alone crop damage support bill, and did not vote at all on a bill for a stand alone hunt. The combined bill will go to the Legislature’s budget committee for consideration.
State Patrol looking for new recruits (UNDATED)
The Wisconsin State Patrol is looking for new recruits. Lt. Nate Henriksen says they encourage people from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Henriksen says like other agencies across the state and country, the State Patrol isn’t immune to staffing challenges. The application period ends January 19th for the State Patrol’s 71st and 72nd recruit classes.
Practice safety when hitting snowmobile trails (UNDATED)
The Wisconsin DNR says you need to stay alert of rapidly changing ice conditions commonly found in the early and later parts of the winter. The DNR also wants snowmobilers to slow down, carry a first aid kit, dress appropriately, stay on marked trails, and never travel alone. According to state law anyone at least 12 years old and born after January 1st, 1985 must have a valid safety education certificate to operate a snowmobile. Visit the DNR’s Ice Safety webpage for more information on staying safe on the ice and refer to the Wisconsin snowmobile regulations for laws for operational restrictions, safety tips and more.