La Crosse student named Wisconsin AAA Safety Patroller of the Year

Anna Jansson, a 5th grader at Coulee Montessori School in La Crosse, has been chosen by AAA Wisconsin as its 2011-2012 AAA School Safety Patrol™ Patroller of the Year. As part of the honor, Jansson receives an expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. April 25-29, and recognition on court at the Milwaukee Bucks AAA Safety Patrol™ Night at the Bucks game on March 31.

Nominees for AAA Patroller of the Year are judged on their leadership qualities, safety skills, school involvement, citizenship and volunteerism. Patrollers were also judged on their essay describing how participating in AAA School Safety Patrol™ helped them become better leaders.

“AAA safety patrol has also helped me and my classmates to work on being prompt which shows that you are responsible and you are dependable while providing a safe environment for others,” Jansson noted in her essay.

Anna is a “…leader in school and community groups,” Coulee Montessori School Teacher Josh Shively said in nominating Jansson. She “understands the importance of the position and exercises good judgment”.

AAA Wisconsin also awarded five schools with advancement grants ranging from $100-$200 for their safety patrol programs. Winners include Martin Elementary School in Green Bay, Merrill Elementary School in Oshkosh, Glenbrook Elementary School in Pulaski, Edison Elementary School in Appleton, and Glenbeulah School in Elkhart Lake. All grant applications are also forwarded to AAA National for a chance at additional grant monies.

A proud tradition since 1920, the AAA School Safety Patrol™ now includes more than 600,000 patrollers in schools nationwide. Students who give their time and energy to make the AAA School Safety Patrol™ a success are encouraged and supported by school officials, parent-teacher groups, police departments, and AAA clubs.

Teen Girls Twice as Likely as Teen Boys to Use Electronic Devices while Driving

MADISON, WI., March 28, 2012 – Teen girls are twice as likely as teen boys to use cell phones and other electronic devices while driving, according to a new in-car video study released today by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Electronic devices were the most commonly observed distracted driving activity for new teen drivers of both genders, although video captured many other serious distractions as well.

“Cell phones, texting, personal grooming, and reaching for things in the car were among the most common distracting activities found when cameras were put in new teen drivers’ cars,” said AAA Foundation President and CEO Peter Kissinger. “This new study provides the best view we’ve had about how and when teens engage in distracted driving behaviors believed to contribute to making car crashes the leading cause of death for teenagers.”

Distracted Driving Among Newly Licensed Teen Drivers is the first study using in-car video footage to specifically focus on teen distracted driving. Researchers at the UNC Highway Safety Research Center identified the prevalence and consequences of various distracted driver behaviors and distracting conditions among teens during high g-force maneuvers such as swerving, hard braking, or rapid acceleration.

Among the findings: the leading cause of distraction for all teens was the use of electronic devices, which was seen in seven percent of the video clips analyzed. Other than electronic device usage, teens engaged in some form of potentially distracted behavior in 15 percent of clips, of which adjusting controls, personal grooming, and eating or drinking were the most common. Many of the distracting behaviors – including use of electronic devices – were more prevalent among the older teens in the study group, suggesting rapid changes in these behaviors as teens get more comfortable behind the wheel.

Gender played a role in some of the distractions observed. Females were nearly twice as likely as males to use an electronic device while driving, and overall were nearly 10 percent more likely to be observed engaging in other distracted behaviors, such as reaching for an object in the vehicle (nearly 50 percent more likely than males) and eating or drinking (nearly 25 percent more likely). Males, on the other hand, were roughly twice as likely to turn around in their seats while driving, and were also more likely to communicate with people outside of the vehicle.

“The gender differences with regard to distraction observed in this study raise some points that we’ll want to investigate in future projects,” Kissinger said. “Every insight we gain into driver behavior has the potential to lead us to new risk management strategies.”

Driving passengers was also found to influence driver behavior. Potentially distracting activities significantly decreased when parents or other adults were present in the car. In contrast, loud conversation and horseplay were more than twice as likely to occur when multiple teen peers – instead of just one – were present. These distractions are particularly concerning, as they are associated with the occurrence of crashes, other serious incidents (such as leaving the roadway), and high g-force events. Drivers were six times as likely to have a serious incident when there was loud conversation in the vehicle, and were more than twice as likely to have a high g-force event when there was horseplay.

Additionally, the distracted driving behaviors were linked with instances of teens looking away from the roadway. Drivers were three times as likely to take their eyes off the road when using electronic devices, and were two-and-a-half times more likely to look away when engaged in other behaviors. On average, teen drivers using electronic devices took their eyes off the road for a full second longer than drivers not using such a device.

“A second may not seem like much, but at 65 mph a car travels the length of a basketball court in a single second,” Kissinger said. “That extra second can mean the difference between managed risk and tragedy for any driver.”

The data for this report came from an analysis of video clips collected as part of a three-phase naturalistic study of 50 North Carolina families with novice teen drivers. The first study looked at how parents supervise their teens during the learner’s stage of GDL, and the second examined how teen behaviors and driving conditions shift during the transition to unsupervised driving. For the current study, 7,858 clips from the first six months of unsupervised driving were re-analyzed to investigate distraction specifically.

With traffic crashes remaining the leading cause of death for young Americans, the AAA Foundation has an established focus area on teen driver safety. For more information on this issue, and to see the full report and associated video clips, visit www.AAAFoundation.org. Additionally, AAA offers expert advice and science-based tools for teen drivers and their families, available by visiting www.TeenDriving.AAA.com.

Get Dog and Cat Licenses by March 31, Save $5

Pet owners must purchase their dog or cat licenses by March 31 of each year (for all pets older than 6 months) or a $5 late fee is assessed. You must bring in a rabies certificate each time you license your pet.

License Fees: Dog not neutered or spayed $18; Dog neutered or spayed $8; Cat not neutered or spayed $4; Cat neutered or spayed $2.50.

Portage County EMS Wins Customer Satisfaction Award

Under the leadership of Medical Director Michael Curtis, MD, Portage County Emergency Medical Services began using a formal customer satisfaction survey in 2011. Under the contracts Portage County has with Stevens Point Fire Department and Amherst Fire District, each service is required to meet a number of quality measures including clinical excellence, operational safety, response time reliability, system organization and customer satisfaction. Although some smaller satisfaction surveys had been conducted in the past, this was the first organized effort to use a validated survey program to measure customer satisfaction.

Each month a percentage of EMS patients are mailed a survey and asked to rate each component of the system including dispatch, first responders, ambulance care and transport and our billing service. In 2011 approximately 1000 surveys were mailed and nearly a quarter of them were returned to the survey company, the EMS Survey Team, for tabulation.

Each month and quarter, the EMS Survey Team sends Portage County EMS reports comparing our customers’ opinion of us to 54 other EMS agencies across the country. The reports allow us to track changes in our customers’ responses each month and identify trends in each area.

This spring, Portage County EMS was presented with an Industry Leadership Award by the EMS Survey Team for having an overall customer satisfaction rating of 93.4% which ranks 8th out of all services that use the survey. “This is a remarkable achievement for Portage County EMS” said Sandie Curtis, Emergency Management Director. “The satisfaction of our patients is a primary concern of our system. We use other measures to demonstrate that we provide high quality medical care but this rating demonstrates that our providers are also excellent at other aspects of care such as communicating with the patient, including them in their care choices, treating their pain, making them feel safe and protecting their privacy.”

President Obama Talks Gas Prices in One-on-One with AAA

Madison, WI., March 23, 2012 — With prices climbing more than 60 cents a gallon in since January 1, and hovering near $4.00 per gallon in Wisconsin, President Barack Obama discussed energy and rising gas prices—a top-of-mind issue for motorists across the country including AAA’s more than 53 million members—in a meeting with AAA yesterday.

Following his speech on energy issues in Cushing, Oklahoma, the President spoke to a representative of the nation’s largest auto club that serves one-in-four American households. As an advocate of motorists nationwide, AAA asked the President questions likely to be foremost in the minds of drivers feeling the pain at the pump.

When asked by AAA to comment on the frustration and confusion that U.S motorists are experiencing with rising gas prices, the President said, “I understand what folks are going through because it wasn’t that long ago that I was having to fill up my gas tank and drive to work, shuttle the kids back and forth to school or events. It takes a big bite out of folks’ paychecks.” The President went on to say that the U.S. has experienced cyclical gas prices for decades and stressed the importance of America having more control over its own energy security.

To determine how Americans are controlling for the higher gas prices, a recent AAA survey found that 84 percent of respondents have already changed their driving habits or lifestyle in some way. Combining trips and errands was the most commonly reported cost-cutting measure with 60 percent of respondents reporting having already made this adjustment. The ways they would adjust show some interesting differences compared to changes they’ve already considered or adopted. In particular, the recent increase in gas prices has led 16 percent of respondents to purchase or lease a more fuel-efficient vehicle. Should prices remain at current levels, AAA survey results show that this number would more than double—jumping to 34 percent.

In its interview with the President, AAA also inquired about the role of the President in addressing prices at the pump given the global forces and political tensions abroad that drive the oil and energy markets. The President elaborated on points from his earlier speech, saying, “The most important thing I can do as the President is not to simply focus on tomorrow. It’s focusing on getting America properly aimed toward our goal of continuing to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.” The President also highlighted the importance of maintaining growth and productivity while further reducing U.S. oil consumption. Mr. Obama noted that pressure on oil prices in the coming two decades will be difficult to reverse.

Even as a 110-year old organization whose origins date to the earliest days of the motor vehicle, AAA continues to explore new vehicle technologies to offer enhanced and improved services to members. Responding to member interest, AAA began testing a roadside service vehicle capable of providing charging assistance to electric vehicles. As to public acceptance of new technologies, the President said, “People need to feel confident that when they get into an electric car they’re not going to get stuck. To the extent that we start having both more efficient batteries and distribution capacity, people can feel confident that they’re never going to get stuck, or at least not any more stuck than they do when they forget to fill up and then call AAA.”

The President also shared insight about the role of alternative-fuel vehicles as a possible solution to current high fuel costs. Mr. Obama noted that fuel efficiency standards for cars and trucks have doubled, which will result in fewer trips to the gas station and a savings for the average family of about $8,000 over the life of the car. As to the future, Mr. Obama is optimistic. “If we unleash American creativity, if we properly incentivize people to think about fuel economy as part of overall design, Americans can make great cars.”

AAA couldn’t pass up the opportunity to ask President Obama about his first car. Noting he had been AAA member for years, he said, “I have to confess, my first car was my grandfather’s car, which was a Ford Granada. It rattled and it shook, and I don’t think the girls were particularly impressed when I came to pick them up in a Ford Granada. But you know what? It moved, and so I have fond memories of the fact that it got me to where I needed to go.”

“Bird Cities” total in Wisconsin reaches 50

Bayside, Wis. — Bird City Wisconsin announced today that in awarding recognition to 11 additional communities, its collaborative program for urban bird conservation had reached the 50 mark. That’s the number of cities, villages, towns and counties statewide it has honored for their highly public commitment to working with their residents to create a better place for people, birds and other wildlife.

Simultaneously, the two-year-old program announced that all 15 of its inaugural communities, recognized in December 2010, had successfully renewed their recognition for 2012.

The newest Bird City communities range widely and include the cities of Bayfield, Fond du Lac, Horicon, Oconomowoc, Oconto and Wausau; the villages of Plover, Fox Point and Whitefish Bay, and Marquette County. Also recognized was the community of “Sauk Prairie,” with Sauk City and Prairie du Sac submitting a successful joint application.

Each will be presented with special Bird City Wisconsin flags, plaques and street signs at ceremonies to honor their conservation achievements.

The renewal process also saw 5 of the 15 original communities win “High Flyer” honors for meeting a more extensive set of conservation criteria. They included the cities of Stevens Point, Green Bay, Muskego, Oshkosh and Ozaukee County. The remaining 10 received the “Sustained Flight” award for their renewed commitment ; they included the cities of Mequon, New London, Lake Geneva, Brookfield and River Falls; the villages of Bayside, Chenequa, Hales Corners and Williams Bay, and the Town of Manitowish Waters.

The Milwaukee Audubon Society partnered with other Wisconsin conservation organizations in 2009 to launch Bird City with an initial planning grant from TogetherGreen, an alliance between the National Audubon Society and Toyota.
“Birds are a vital component of a healthy ecosystem in our local communities and they provide environmental, as well as economic benefits,” said Flo Miller, TogetherGreen co-director at Audubon. “As an early supporter of the Bird City Wisconsin program, Audubon and Toyota applaud the Wisconsin elected officials, citizens and volunteers who have made it possible for 50 towns across the state of Wisconsin to reach Bird City designation. The efforts of Wisconsin conservation groups are proving that this is a model program worthy of replication at the national scale.”

Modeled on the “Tree City USA” program, Bird City developed 22 criteria across five categories, including habitat creation and protection, community forest management, limiting hazards to birds, public education, and recognition of International Migratory Bird Day. If a community meets at least seven criteria, it becomes an official “Bird City.”
Wisconsin boasts 182 Tree Cities, ranking third in the nation, in a program that began in 1976.

Environment for the Americas, which coordinates International Migratory Bird Day events across two continents, said recently of
Bird City Wisconsin: “One of the requirements to become a Bird City is hosting an IMBD event. In just two years, the state has become a leader in promoting bird conservation actions and community education.”

In making today’s joint announcements, Bird City coordinator Carl Schwartz said the program was continuing to surpass its goals for growth and that efforts to gain Bird City status were under way in about three dozen additional communities.

“We are particularly encouraged by the 100% renewal rate, the number of “High Flyers” and the large number of additional conservation steps undertaken by those achieving “Sustained Flight,” Schwartz said. “Wisconsin communities are paying increased attention to habitat preservation and to combating bird fatalities caused by domestic cats allowed to roam outdoors, and by window strikes.”

Noel Cutright, founder of the Western Great Lakes Bird and Bat Observatory, added that the BCW program “provides an excellent vehicle for communities to harness the human connection with birds — reaching beyond bird watchers to new and essential audiences.”

Fundraising event to benefit Jeremiah’s Crossing

Kellner, WI (March 2012) – When Jolene Dankemeyer’s son Torrence rides a horse, it makes a world of difference.  He is calmer, more focused, and able to concentrate more easily.  Torrence, diagnosed with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder, has participated in therapeutic horseback riding lessons at Jeremiah’s Crossing for the last three years and has benefited greatly from the program.

“They have done so much for my family and I want to give back,” Dankemeyer said.  Dankemeyer and her parents, Pattie and Don Pflugradt, who all volunteer at the ranch, will be holding a benefit for Jeremiah’s Crossing at the Wild Horse Saloon in Kellner, WI on Saturday, April 14, 2012.  The event will take place from 2pm-10pm and will include live music, dancing, food, and kids games.  There will also be a silent auction featuring cowboy hats decorated by local artists and a raffle for prizes such as a weekend getaway at the Four Seasons Resort, a Fender electric guitar, and two half-sides of beef.

Jeremiah’s Crossing is a therapeutic horseback riding ranch located near Babcock, WI that provides services at no cost to its participants.  All ranch activities are supported through fundraising and grant opportunities.

The proceeds from the event will help Jeremiah’s Crossing in its efforts to build a Center for Equine Assisted Activities (CEAA).  The CEAA will be fully accessible to those with special needs and include an indoor riding arena, barn, office, and family observation room.

Currently, the ranch only offers summer and fall lessons which are dependent on good weather conditions.  In 2011, 50% of the lessons were cancelled due to rain or extreme heat.  Construction of the CEAA facility would allow Jeremiah’s Crossing to expand lesson opportunities and provide therapeutic horseback riding on a year-round basis.

Says Dankemeyer, “If we can do this year-round, more children can benefit from this amazing program.”

To support this event, please contact Pattie Pflugradt at 715-207-8348 or Jolene Dankemeyer at 715-451-3898.

Jeremiah’s Crossing, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization.  All donations are tax deductible.  For more information about Jeremiah’s Crossing, visit www.jeremiahscrossing.org or contact Roger or Kathleen Harris at 715-323-2400.

The Wild Horse Saloon is located at 9031 County Road WW in Kellner, WI.

Mayor and Police Chief Thank Duffey Search Volunteers

To the public that assisted with the search, volunteered to assist with future searches and everyone who checked their property following the Code Red calls:

We wanted to thank you for volunteering your time in the search for Eric Duffey. The community stepped forward in such a positive way and so many people went above and beyond what they needed to do to help in the aid of finding Eric. This community came together and treated the situation as if it were their own son or daughter missing. We are truly grateful everyone was willing to be so generous with their time.

It is so good to see a community working together and sharing with each other their determination, hopefulness and perseverance as the people of Stevens Point showed by their willingness to help in any way possible to find Eric.

This community showed compassion and caring during this extremely upsetting incident by cooperating and working together in the dire circumstances where time was of the essence.

Thank you again for your generosity and selflessness in this extremely difficult situation.

Sincerely,
Andrew J. Halverson, Mayor
Kevin K. Ruder, Chief of Police

Peeps Art Exhibit Reception March 24, Show through April 7

Peeps Art Exhibit Reception March 24, Show through April 7

The fourth annual Peeps Art exhibit at the Riverfront Arts Center will tickle your sense of humor. Come and see what fun can look like when using this common marshmallow confection in so many unique and creative ways. The Peeps exhibit opens on Saturday, March 24, with a reception from 1-3 pm and runs through Saturday, April 7 at pm.

Virtual career fair to be held March 22

Information provided by State Representative Scott Krug

2012 has been named by Governor Walker as “The Year of the Veteran” in Wisconsin.  More than just a proclamation, the focus on veterans is meant to be part thank you to veterans for their service but also a way to find ways to connect veterans’ to new jobs and careers back home.  To this end, the Governor has partnered with Milicruit to host a virtual career fair for service members, members of the Guard and Reserves, veterans and military spouses to be held tomorrow, March 22^nd.  The event will be held online at www.veteranscareerfair.com.

The virtual career fair will allow veterans to build a profile, research employers ahead of time, visit employer booths, view and apply for jobs, chat with live recruiters, and meet with fellow veterans in the networking lounge.  Numerous businesses and employers will be taking part in this event, with over 14,000 jobs collectively available.  In order to participate, you must pre-register by logging on to www.veteranscareerfair.com.