Local News Briefs Monday 8/3/15

Business Facilities magazine, one of the nation’s leading corporate and economic development publications ranked the Fond du Lac Metro or Fond du Lac County ninth in the nation for advanced manufacturing specialization. No other Wisconsin metro was ranked in the top 10 in the July 30th publication. Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation President Steve Jenkins says the recognition indicates that our manufacturers in Fond du Lac County are on the leading edge of manufacturing in the nation.

Thiesfeldt Bill Would Offer Health Care Workers Exemptions From Flu Shot Requirements

State Representative Jeremy Thiesfeldt says a bill he authored that would give health care employees an exemption if they didn’t want to get flu shots is gaining momentum in the state legislature. The state lawmaker from Fond du Lac says it’s getting support in the State Senate. He says many health care facilities require employees or vendors that work with them to get flu shots. He says people have their reasons for not wanting to get the flu shot. He says people should have the right to make their own decision when it comes to their health care. He says this past year’s influenza vaccine didn’t prove to be very effective. Thiesfeldt says his bill would allow both personal and religious exemptions for people who don’t want to be required by an employer to get a flu shot.

Teachers More Mobile

North Fond du Lac Schools Superintendent Aaron Sadoff says they have seen more movement when it comes to teachers looking for jobs elsewhere. He says since ACT 10 decision making on teaching jobs has changed a little. He says there more apt to work for a place they want to be or closer to family because salaries are more similar. Sadoff says they will still be looking for ways to attract the best and the brightest teachers to the district. He says the district wants to attract teachers who will feel welcome and that they are making a difference in children’s educations.

Changes At FDL Area United Way

The Fond du Lac Area United Way has a new director. Amber Kilawee is now the Interim Director for the organization following the recent retirement of Tina Potter as Executive Director. Potter’s retirement took effect on June 30th. Kilawee says Potter worked in the non-profit field for 47 years and enjoyed her role in it. Kilawee says she started at the United Way as an intern while she was still attending Lakeland College. She was also doing an internship with ADVOCAP at the time. She’s been with United Way now for 8 years.

NRB Considers Master Plan For Northern Kettle Moraine Region

The state’s Natural Resources Board will consider approving the draft master plan for nine wildlife, fishery and natural area properties located within the Northern Kettle Moraine Region during their next meeting. That meeting will be held in Horicon on August 12th. The draft plan contains department recommendations for habitat and recreation goals and objectives for the nine properties. It also reflects comments received at two public meetings last fall. A copy of the draft master plan can be found at public libraries in Campbellsport, Plymouth, Theresa, Cedarburg, Kiel and West Bend.

Ron Harvey Tribute Orchestra Performing Tonight

Tonight’s Music Under the Stars concert at Buttermilk Creek Park brings back the sweet sounds of the Big Band Era. Bob Shirek is a retired Goodrich High School band director who also formed and directs the Ron Harvey Tribute Orchestra, which will be performing at the park from 7 to 8:30 this evening. He says the Ron Harvey Orchestra was known for their “sweet band music.” They also had a musical trademark, three tones similar to those you’ve heard to signify the NBC Television Network. In addition to the Orchestra, Ron Harvey was a KFIZ radio personality for decades. Shirek says they were friends. Those attending should bring their own lawn chairs. Food will be available for purchase starting at 6:30 p.m. In the event of rain, the concert will be held at the Fond du Lac County Fairground’s Cow Palace building.