City Budget Approved: Swan Lake

City budget approved
VOL. 121, NO. 50 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013 SINGLE COPY PRICE: $1.25 www.MiddletonTimes.com
General fund is set at $23,334,253

Times-Tribune
by FRANCESCA MASTRANGELO
Maintaining public services, supporting development initiatives, ensuring a reasonable tax rate. What does a balance between all of these objectives look like? It very much depends on who you ask. Most city council members say they have worked in recent years to address city maintenance costs, support community projects and finance numerous construction plans without placing an unnecessary burden on taxpayers. After
More than 100 Tundra Swans recently paid a flamboyant visit to Lake Mendota. As their name implies, the swans breed in the Arctic and subarctic tundra, then migrate through Canada and the Great Lakes region to winter on the Atlantic coast of the USA.
Swan lake
the publication of the draft 2014 budget last month, Middleton denizens expressed irritation for what they felt was an imbalanced outcome of these recent conversations. At last weeks Middleton Common Council meeting, citizens stepped up to city halls microphone and voiced their frustration with the councils management of city priorities. Residents lamented the councils inability to keep Middletons mill rate from increasing by 8.44 percent. An 8.44 percent mill rate increase is excessive, stated Sally Kefer. We are paving driveways for business expansions and need to figure out generous cost sharing with these businesses thats not such a burden to taxpayers. While Kefer suggested the possibility of collaborating with businesses in brainstorming additional cost-cutting measures, resident Tom Ullsuik ques-
tioned the long-term benefits of current construction projects. The city used to invest in projects that created revenue for the city and over the last few years, funded projects have not created new assessment dollars, said Ullsuik. Although city administrator Mike Davis has stressed the financial promise of upcoming projects, such as a Meriter medical complex and the mixed-used Tribeca Village, as well as the success of certain Tax Increment Districts, some citizens seem unimpressed with the councils efforts to cut spending and generate revenue. Resident Don Hammes urged city leaders to reevaluate what they are categorizing as imperative versus what could be deemed inessential. The council should consider looking at the budget and decide what is necessary or just nice to have,
Hammes stated. Following the public comment session, council members spoke to citizens frustrations with tax hikes and city spending. In order to provide an accurate picture of Middletons present financial situation, Mike Davis first addressed debt service obligation and clarified the role Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts play in local finances. Our debt service projects [including EMS, fire, and police facilities] dovetailed with the recession, and now the debt service expenses for those facilities have grown since the projects initial borrowings, said Davis. However, our total golf debt service has increased beyond their total operating revenues. Its also important for Middleton residents to understand TIF expenditures are not paid for by residents,
Davis added. Revenues go to the TIF district only from TIF properties and pay for improvements in the TIF district. Council members went on to assure residents that increasing tax rates again this year reflects the desire to preserve Middletons value. City leaders emphasized how Middletons overall quality of life both compares to surrounding areas and necessitates the higher mill rate and accompanying 10.8 percent levy hike. The City of Middleton has one of the lowest mill rates in Dane County, stated ald. Hans Hilbert (Dist. 7). Middleton is a moderately expensive community and the residents are getting a good value for the size and services they receive. Compared to other communities, See BUDGET, page 21
Times-Tribune photo by Jeff Martin
Schools work to close achievement gap

by CAMERON BREN
Times-Tribune
Middleton High School received yet another glowing score on its state report card, and once again, local students test scores rank high when compared with state and national averages. But all is not well. At the same time, the school continues to struggle with a significant racial achievement gap. The gap has been narrowed slightly, but is still cavernous: Simply put, black and Hispanic students continue to score far lower than their white and Asian counterparts in Middleton-Cross Plains.
Marijuana could be on spring ballot. Page 5
Local:
THINKING CRITICALLY ABOUT WKCE WKCE is a standardized test designed by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, teachers, and edu-
Educators, however, are hopeful a new generation of standardized tests and procedures will finally help schools narrow the divide. The Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Examinations (WKCE) is still in use, but will soon be replaced by a more flexible system designed to give individual educators the ability to better tailor programs that target the deficiencies of struggling students.
cational assessment publisher CTB/McGraw-Hill. Grades 3, 5, 6, and 7 take tests in Reading and Math-
ematics, while grades 4, 8, and 10 take tests in Reading, Mathematics, SciSee GAP, page 21
Soprano Emily Birsan returns to PAC . Page 6
The Arts:
Hockey Cards start Big 8 play strong. Page 15
Sports:
Dining Guide . . . . . . . . 6-7 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Classieds . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Inside this issue:
Gobblers work to feed the hungry

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G IVING
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013
This is the fourth year the Mad City Gobblers Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation provided leadership for the local Madison Turkey Hunters Care program, and the first year using four collection sites. 100 percent of all donations were used to pay for frozen turkeys that were given to food pantries in and around Middleton for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Planning time, pick-up, and delivery of the turkeys are contributed through volunteer efforts. This is the second year turkeys were provided for the Middleton Outreach Ministry (MOM) Food Pantry. Donations collected locally were used to
provide 204 Thanksgiving turkeys (over 2,000 lbs) for people in need. Enough funds were raised to purchase additional turkeys for MOM to distribute for Christmas. The Badgerland Chapter of the Safari Club International (SCI) gave a generous cash donation and many individuals in the community gave as well. Volunteers who assisted with with local collection sites included volunteers from the Middleton High School Key Club, the Madison Memorial High School Key Club, other community volunteers, and members of the Mad City Gobblers Board of Directors.
From left to right: Bill Alber - Mad CityGobblers Chapter BoardMember and Coordinator of Madison Area NWTF Turkey Hunters Care Program; Al Ripp - Executive Director MOM; Andy Opichka - Mad CityGobblers Chapter BoardMember; Maggie Opichka -Mad CityGobblers Chapter BoardMember and Treasurer.
Photo contributed
Mad CityGobblers Chapter boardmember Andy Opichka helps load the MOM truck.
Photo contributed
Westport balks at changes to fire agreement

by MIKE DREW The Westport Town Board met Dec. 2, discussing ongoing Middleton Fire District negotiations in addition to authorizing short-term borrowing power for the town administrator. Additionally, Dane County Sheriff Dave Mahoney hosted an in-person update and question and answer session on the status of law enforcement coverage in the township. FIRE AGREEMENT The board received an new Middleton Fire District agreement from the City of Middleton to update the latest step in their ongoing negotiations. Previously, the negotiations had been in
Times-Tribune
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MIDDLETON TIMES-TRIBUNE
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relation to reducing the number of and condensing the timing of payments the towns in the district were making. What started as some proposed minor revisions, commented board supervisor Kenneth Sipsma, turned into a monster. One major adjustment that occurred in the latest round of revisions from the city includes a fee for acting as the fiscal agent for the Middleton Fire District. The district itself stands as a distinct entity covering all or parts of various communities. Starting for the 2015 calendar year, reads the proposed updated contract, The city shall annually invoice and receive payment of $15,000 from the district for fiscal agent services. The Westport board showed disdain at the recent updates, and even suggested tabling the update altogether
Wednesday, November 27 8:26 a.m. Theft, 8700 block of Montclair Dr. 9:56 a.m. Damage to property,
Tuesday, November 26 6:44 a.m. Theft, 8500 block of Greenway Blvd. 9:03 a.m. Fraud, 8300 block Murphy Dr. 6:57 p.m. Control substance, 2900 block of Parmenter St.
Monday, November 25 12:16 p.m. Theft, 7400 block of Century Ave.
Thursday, November 28 1:05 a.m. Theft, 5100 block Churchill Ln. 7:44 a.m. Fraud, 6800 block of University Ave. Friday, November 29
7200 block of University Ave. 6:15 p.m. Fire, 5500 block of Grassland Trl. 9:27 p.m. Accident w/injuries, 8300 block of University Ave. 10:59 p.m. Theft, 5100 block of Churchill Ln. 11:39 p.m. Theft, 6200 block of Elmwood Ave.
P OLICE B EAT
2:13 p.m. Theft, 2600 block of Branch St. 12:29 p.m. Theft, 2000 block of Branch St. 12:44 p.m. - Theft, 2100 block of Pinehurst Dr. 7:21 p.m. Fire, 7000 block of Donna Dr. 11:16 p.m. Damage to property, Sweeney Dr. & Fortune Dr. Saturday, November 30 10:07 p.m. Theft, 8200 block of
BORROWING Town administrator Tom Wilson was given short-term borrowing powers to borrow $150,000. This borrowed funding would be put toward savings for the upcoming town garage project and then quickly paid off. The board does not like to spend money in interest, commented administrator Tom Wilson. The town has been saving similar amounts towards this project over recent years, and will have $550,000 saved after the additional $150,000 is
and continuing under the currently inplace fire district contract. Say to hell with it, commented supervisor Bill von Rutenberg. The board tabled the matter pending further negotiations with the City of Middleton.
added to the account and paid off. We like to have the money in our hands when we do a building, added board chairman John Van Dinter. We think its more responsible than going out and seeing how much we can borrow. Work on garage project is likely to begin as early as next summer. SHERIFF VISITS Sheriff Dave Mahoney also paid a visit, in accordance with his personal policy to stop by the districts his deputies patrol to make himself available to questions and comments local leaders may have for him. The board made multiple comments on the effectiveness of the Dane County Sheriffs Office inside the
Westport community, thanking him for services performed effectively. Id also like to thank you, commented Van Dinter for your deputies coming and helping on [Waunakee] EMS calls. Some questions were posed per the potential future locations of a jail complex in Dane County. Though Mahoney was unable to provide exact details where Dane County is looking at locating such a complex, he was able to disclose that the county is compiling a list of what features would need to be included in such a space, and how much space such a facility would require. We really do appreciate the relationship we have with the town here, said Mahoney.
Greenway Blvd. 10:22 p.m. Animal bite, 5800 block of Highland Ter. 11:30 p.m. Animal bite, 5800 block of Highland Ter. 4:23 a.m. Damage to property, 1700 block of N. High Point Rd. 10:05 p.m. Theft, 7400 block of Hubbard Ave. Sunday, December 1 1:48 a.m. Damage to property, Lakeview Ave. & University Ave.
4:49 a.m. Theft, 7400 block of Hubbard Ave. 8:36 p.m. EMS, 6200 block of University Ave.
Monday, December 2 10:13 p.m. Domestic disturbance, 2500 block of Branch St. Wednesday, December 4 9:00 a.m. Theft, 3600 block of
See POLICE, page 5
Supervisors approve annual budget

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T OWN
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S PRINGFIELD
by MIKE DREW
Times-Tribune
The Springfield Town Board met Tuesday, Nov.19, for its second board meeting of the month. Town Supervisor Art Meinholz had an excused absence from the meeting, but the town board conducted the meeting as normal and held discussions on a variety of topics in his absence. Among items discussed at the meetings were potential discussion with Ryan Brothers EMS per future EMS services in the
township, adoption and a short public hearing on the towns 2014 budget, in addition to the continuance of the concrete driveway variance discussion thats been in progress for several meetings. BUDGET ADOPTED Before the Spingfield Town Board convened for its regular meeting on November 19, supervisors hosted a public hearing to discuss the 2014 town budget. The public hearing was the final cursory budgetary meeting prior to the ap-
Board looks at confined animal rules

by MIKE DREW
Times-Tribune
proval of the 2014 budget; it approved the total 2014 expenditures, adopted the 2013 tax levy to be paid in 2014, and adopted the salaries of town officials and staff, without hosting any actual debate on the amounts themselves. Salaries for the town officers remains unchanged for the 2014 year- supervisors will receive [$45.00] for all Board, committee and other meetings, per the Springfield ordinances, while the board chairman will continue to receive a salary of $250 per calendar quarter and the per diem paid to the su-
pervisors. The hearing adjourned quickly, and the budget, which includes $1,132,250 in total revenues, up from $1,075,008 in 2013, was approved without discussion during the regular meeting. The budget includes $667,826 in local taxes, up from $663,122 in 2013.
EMS SERVICE Springfield is in the process of looking into alternative emergency medical rates and services for their township. The board has been hosting discussions
The Springfield Town Board met December 3 and hosted discussions on topics ranging from proposed county CAFO ordinances to potential discussions with Ryan Brothers EMS Service, in addition to over-viewing ongoing discussions and reviewing an estimate on the newly-created town park. ANIMAL ORDINANCES The town board heard a presentation from Elliott Long on CAFOs in sup-
port of a potential CAFO (Concentrated/Confined Animal Feeding Operation) ordinance in Dane County. Elliott was representing a group of Springfield residents calling themselves the North Mendota Group, and gave his presentation highlighting the negative effects of Super-CAFOs with large numbers of animals (1000+ Dairy cows) with the intent to open this item as a discussion item for the board. The board discussed his presentation at some length with a great deal of back and forth agreement and disagreement. Closing the presentation discussion, the board emphasized the discussion
EMS SERVICE The board was also updated on several items it has been discussing over recent meetings, including discussions with Ryan Brothers EMS service, which as of Tuesday, Dec. 3, had not begun. Some board members were expressing some caution regarding moving forward, though some scaled back action was taken at the end of the discussion. Its just prudent to look at it, advised board Supervisor Jim Pulverma-
was appreciated but took no immediate action to either support or oppose the proposed Dane County ordinance.
NEW PARK The Town of Springfield also received a reference bid estimate for landscaping the area recently leased from the DOT to be turned into a town park. The park will be located across County Road P from the Town of Springfield municipal building. The reference bid for work that inSee SPRINGFIELD, page 5
cher, Im not saying were disappointed with the EMS service we have now. The board authorized communication to take place with the Town of Middleton to get a summary of their recent talks with Ryan Brothers.
per the cost of both EMS and fire services over the past several meetings to try to both cut their costs and tie Fire and EMS districts together geographically - at the present time, three Fire and EMS departments provide coverage to Springfield,but the maps do not precisely match up. The township has been hosting discussions regarding splitting both the placements Middletons [Fire Department] got the smallest section, commented supervisor Dave Laufenberg, and they cost the most money. The board authorized the Town Clerk/Treasurer Carolyn Hacker to communicate with Ryan Brothers Ambulance Service regarding a potential meeting.
CHURCH NOTES
Local voters could weigh in on marijuana

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013 MIDDLETON TIMES-TRIBUNE
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by MATT GEIGER
Times-Tribune
Should the state government enact legislation legalizing marijuana? Thats the question voters in Middleton and the rest of Dane County could be asked on their April ballots, if the county board approves a resolution introduced last week. The measure, introduced by Supervisor Leland Pan and co-sponsored by Supervisor Kyle Richmond, is headed to the executive committee and, if it passes committee, would come before the full board within a few weeks. The people of Dane County deserve a voice in this issue, said Pan. I believe most Dane County residents, and most Wisconsinites, understand that criminalizing marijuana is a mas-
Thursday, December 5 9:02 a.m. Fight, 2400 block of Clark St. 9:55 a.m. Theft, 2000 block of Eagle Dr. 7:39 p.m. Burglary, 5100 block of
Tribeca Dr. 11:12 a.m. Fraud, 3200 block of Patty Ln. 11:12 a.m. Vehicle fire, 2000 block of Mayflower Dr. 12:12 p.m. Fraud, 8300 block of Murphy Dr. 3:02 p.m. Assist citizen/motorist, 3400 block of John Muir Dr.
POLICE
sive waste of law enforcement resources and infringement on personal liberty. We are giving them a chance to say so, loud and clear. Twenty-four states across the country have either legalized medical marijuana, decriminalized marijuana possession, or both, said Richmond. Three out of four Dane County residents already voted in favor of legalizing marijuana for medical purposes. The momentum is clearly in favor of decriminalization. Supervisor Sharon Corrigan (Dist. 26), who represents Middleton on the county board, said she supports putting the question before voters. I support including it on the spring ballot, Corrigan said. It is important to hear from voters on a subject that impacts so many lives. Whether it is the need for medical
marijuana, the taxes we pay to enforce the prohibition or the violence surrounding the trafficking of illegal drugs, all of us are impacted by criminalizing marijuana, Corrigan continued. The views of the electorate on this issue will help inform the state legislature as they consider the issue. I thank Supervisors Pan and Richmond for putting this issue in front of the County Board, said Nate Petreman, president of Madison NORML. I urge the entire Board to pass this resolution and put the question before the people, and I urge our representatives in state government to listen to what the people say. County Clerk Scott McDonell said the referendum is unlikely to add any expense to the already-scheduled April election. continued from page 3
cludes removing tall grass, removing invasive trees and shrubs, and grading the area so it will be smooth enough to mow among other items, which totaled at $12,860.
SPRINGFIELD
While the bid is not an official bid, the town will use it as a guideline to foresee what the potential costs could be down the road when bids are officially put in for the park.
continued from page 4
Saturday, December 7 2:16 a.m. Fight, 2600 block of Branch St. 12:48 p.m. Domestic disturbance, US Hwy 12 & Greenway Blvd. 8:53 p.m. Suspicious activity,
Friday, December 6 9:40 p.m. Theft, 2100 block of Eagle Dr. 12:08 p.m. Theft, 2100 block of Eagle Dr. 8:54 p.m. Fraud, 2600 block of Allen Blvd.
Brindisi Ct.
Monday, December 9 12:07 a.m. Burglary, 3400 block o Marino Ct.
Sunday, December 8 9:45 p.m. Fire alarm, 8400 block of Greenway Blvd. 11:56 p.m. Domestic disturbance, 7400 block of Franklin Ave.
8500 block of Greenway Blvd. 9:26 p.m. Burglary, 8500 block of Greenway Blvd. 10:38 p.m. Burglary, 8500 block of Greenway Blvd.
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P ERFORMING A RTS
An Evening with the Middleton Community Orchestra and Soprano Emily Birsan will take place Monday, Dec. 23 at the Middleton Performing Arts Center, 2100 Bristol St. The concert, which begins at 7:30 p.m., will include Glinka: Russlan and Ludmilla Overture, Rimsky-Korsakov: Dance of the Tumblers and Beethoven: Symphony No. 6, The Pastoral Symphony. Birsan, above, will sing four arias by Mozart, Strauss, Donizetti and Charpentier. She is in her final year of the Chicago Lyric Opera apprentice program and is on the brink of a stellar international career. This will be her third time sharing the stage with the MCO. Ticket information is available at www.middletoncommunityorchestra.org.
Birsan is back
Photo contributed
The timeless classic, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, comes to life, Saturday, Dec. 14, 6:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 15, 9:30 a.m. at Middleton Community Church. This free public performance of the boisterous story made famous by Barbara Robinson is a great outing for the entire family, said organizers. It tells the story of the delinquent
Pageant at Community Church
The Middleton High School Bands were scheduled to present a series of Winter Concerts on Dec. 11 and 12. Both concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. in the MHS Performing Arts Center. On Wednesday, Dec. 11, the Wind Ensemble and Concert Band were to perform. Highlights of the concert bands performance include Cruzan Dances by Robert Longfield. This work presents many moods of tropical inspired dance. The Wind Ensemble planned Chester by William Schumann. This masterwork of wind literature presents this Revolutionary War hymn in a series of contemporary variations. On Thursday, Dec. 12, the Cardinal Band and Wind Ensemble perform. The Cardinal Band has been working hard on a piece by Frank Ticheli called Abracadabra. This thematic work portrays the composers sons impish personality. The Wind Ensemble will open and close their portion of the program with works by Russian composers Rimsky-Korsakov and Prokofiev: The Procession of the Nobles by Rimsky-Korsakov and Troika from the Lt. Kije Suite by Prokofiev. The public is cordially invited to attend. There will be receptions following both concerts.
Winter Concerts going on now
Photo contributed
Herdman kids, who show up at the local church for the first time ever when they hear that the church has snacks, only to end up starring in the annual Christmas pageant. Middleton Community Church is located at 645 Schewe Road in Middleton, just off Old Sauk Road, two miles west of the beltline, across from Pope Farm Park.
Fine chocolate, sold for a good cause

F OOD AND D RINK
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by KATHERINE PERRETH
Times-Tribune
Of the 47 varieties of chocolate bonbons offered daily at Greenway Stations Chocolaterie Stam, one stands out for its atypical shape, a fleur-de-lis. According to Store Manager Robert Strohmayer there is an excellent reason for that. This store opened for the exclusive reason of donating the profits to the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps, explained Strohmayer. The logo of the corps is the fleur-de-lis. Although Jacobus Stam founded Chocolaterie Stam in the Netherlands in 1913, the family-owned business crossed the pond much later. According to Strohmayer, the Madison Scouts had sponsored one of Stams descendents, Ton Stam, in the early 1980s. Ton was one of the first international students to play in the Madison corps. Ton stayed in the U.S. and first opened stores in Iowa, explained Strohmayer. The nine U.S. stores are now located in five other Midwestern states; Wisconsins only branch is in Middleton. [Ton] still maintains a close relationship with the Scouts. In fact, according to Strohmayer, since its inception in 2010 the Middleton store annually donates approximately $5,000-$10,000 to the corps. This year even more has been given to the Scouts as they celebrated their 75th anniversary, Strohmayer said. We gave an extra donation of 500 boxes of fleur-de-lis chocolates for their gala, he stated. Other businesses, organizations, and individuals also revel in Chocolaterie Stams niche in personalizing chocolates. We can custom-order chocolates with an image or a logo, Strohmayer explained. The store is a popular supplier for weddings and gala events, as well as for holiday parties. Strohmayer pointed out theres still time to order
personalized Christmas bonbons. In addition, the store is known for taking flavor suggestions, both for chocolates, and for the homemade gelato and sorbetto [non-dairy gelato] concocted at the Middleton store. Chocolate Chili Spice gelato and Pink Grapefruit sorbetto were requested by customers, Strohmayer noted. Were still trying to figure out [requested] olive oil and black pepper, he said with a chuckle. Were working on it. In Des Moines, Dutch Master Chocolatier Erik Stam, Tons nephew, creates individual truffles and other bonbons from chocolate bricks imported from Europe, said Strohmayer. This fall, the U.S. European chocolate connection ran into trouble because of our nations shutdown, causing delays in shipments, Strohmayer said. Fortunately, the handpainted European Christmas chocolates have arrived just in the St. Nick of time. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Chocolaterie Stam, the store will be hosting free events today (December 12) from 5-8 p.m. There will be plenty of samples, and a chocolate and cheese pairing where chocolate will be used instead of crackers, Strohmayer concluded. Chocolaterie Stam also carries other European products, confections, and their own blend of three-bean roasted coffee. But it is the white, milk, and dark chocolate (55%-70% cocoa) that keep the business sweetly humming. As Ton Stam aptly ends his email correspondences, Finally, lets save the planet its the only one with chocolate.
Jacobus Stam founded Chocolaterie Stam in the Netherlands in 1913. Pictured above is Middleton store manager Robert Strohmayer.
Times-Tribune photo by Katherine Perreth
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Middleton- Wendy C. Harris (Uminski) age 56, passed away at Meriter Hospital on December 7th, 2013 surrounded by her family. Wendy was born on January 19, 1957 in Waupun, Wi to Bill & Phyllis Uminski. Wendy grew up in Middleton, Wi and enjoyed her life on Hubbard Ave. She attended UW-Stout and MATC. Wendy worked in the medical field at UW Hospital, among many other Human service positions. Wendys passion for life was evident through her painting, jewelry, and baking which includes her famous chocolate amaretto cheesecake. She spent numerous years as a charter member of Madison Drum and Bugle Corps/ Capital Aires. Wendys commitment in her search of spirituality through the 12 steps of AA offered peace and comfort not only for herself but many others. Wendy achieved her greatest accomplishment in her life which was her four beautiful children. They will deeply miss her love and guidance. Shes survived by daughter Brooke Webster (Dan) granddaughter Jolan and twins on the way in May of Poynette, Wi, son Billy Burkhalter (Jenna) and granddaughter Brylie of Sacramento, CA and Daughter Kaitlyn Harris of Sun Prairie, WI. Wendy is also survived by her mother Phyllis Uminski of Middleton, WI, sister Cindy Polan (Robert) of Denver, CO, brother Dan Uminski of Middleton, WI, sister Deb Weber (Dave) of Waunakee, WI. Besides her immediate family she leaves behind aunts, uncles,
O BITUARY Wendy C. Harris
cousins, nieces, nephews and numerous friends. Wendy is preceded in death by her daughter Rachel Dawn Burkhalter, father Bill Uminski and sister in law Susan Uminski. A celebration of Wendys life will be held on Thursday, December 12, from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Olbrich Gardens. A time for reflection will start promptly at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers the family has requested a donation to be made in Wendys honor to the Dane County Humane Society, or the Organ Procurement Organization. Wendys selflessness was exemplified by the giving of life through organ donation. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the ICU medical staff and emergency services of Meriter Hospital , Middleton EMS and Organ Procurement Organization. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the care of our mother. Let us linger here a while in the foolishness of things Gunderson West Funeral & Cremation Care is assisting the family. www.gundersonfh.com.
The Middleton Area Special Olympics (MASO) bowling team had nine bowlers that participated in the regional bowing competition on October 19. Four of them finished in 1st, 2nd or 3rd place to qualify for sectional competition on November 2. All four of them againqualified for the state bowling competition that was held December 7 at Bowlero Lanes near Milwaukee. Those four athletes are Nick Annen, Molly Carpenter, Gavin Katovich and Alex Kiselev. They finished as follows at the state competition: Nick Annen - 5th place finish; Molly Carpenter - 5th place finish; Gavin Katovich - 4th place finish; Alex Kiselev - 1st place finish - Gold Medal. Middleton Area Special Olympics was formerly known as West Madison Youth Special Olympics. The name was changed because most participants are from this community. Pictured here from left to right are (front row) YanYan Wu, Winnie Rosengren, Faith Engle, Nicole Voss, Regina MacLean, Lauren Hopp; (middle row) Kayla McPherson, Abby Quintana, Gavin Katovich, Nick Annen, David Born; (back row) Lauren Herder, Alex Kiselev, Molly Carpenter, Joe Hartnell, Madelinn Wagner, Coach Jean Hopp, Coach Brian Hopp and Coach Steve Herder. Not pictured are Andy Radavich,Nikki Ordaz, Ashlee Hrdlicka and Jarrett Neider. mushroom soup, and they set off to collect mushrooms in the forest. Back at home, over the stove, they stir the mushroom soup until its ready to eat. Once again, Duck wont even consider trying the soup. The same thing happens when the group creates beet soup. Duck only wants pumpkin soup. His friends hatch a plan to make something that almost resembles pumpkin soup. Will Duck eat it? Check out this book and find out for yourself! The young reader in your life will likely relate to Ducks fickle eating habits, and your whole family will love the vibrant, lively illustrations that bring the text to life. In Alphabet Soup: A Feast of Letters by Scott Gustafson, Otter moves in to a new home and finds a giant soup pot. He invites 26 of his closest friends to a housewarming party, requesting that each one bring an ingredient for soup. His friends arrive, each one with a contribution for the soup pot in hand. Armadillo is first, bearing asparagus, and Zebra with zucchini is the last to arrive. The ingredients are added one by one, and in the end, a delicious soup is enjoyed by all. This robust alphabet book appeals to children of all ages, especially older readers who will pick up on the subtle, rich humor and very detailed illustrations. The traditional French tale of Stone Soup has been told many times over, but the best-known version is probably Marcia Browns. First published in 1947, this book was awarded a Caldecott Honor and has been a favorite ever since. When three soldiers approach a village, the residents hide all of their food, knowing that the visitors are likely hungry. The soldiers go door to door, asking for food and a place to stay, but they are turned away again and again. They put their heads together and come up with a plan, quickly winning over the villagers and seemingly creating something delicious out of nothing. The soldiers who were initially unwanted strangers are regarded as welcome friends and community builders by the end of the book. This story is perfect for acting out with young children, or as a springboard for discussion with older readers.
On a roll!
Photo contributed
Winter has arrived! At our house, this means that the slow cooker is often filled with something warm and hearty for my husband and I to enjoy at the end of a long day. One of our favorite winter suppers is soup. We love all types of soup: tomato-basil, butternut squash, black bean, cabbage the list goes on. Soup does a great job of keeping us toasty warm and satisfied while the snow falls outside. If you find yourself waiting for a pot of soup to finish simmering, why not read a
Soup Weather
book about this fabulous winter dish? Ask your librarian for a recommendation, or try one of these soup-er stories: Delicious! by Helen Cooper is a delightful picture book about three friends: Duck, Squirrel, and Cat. Their very favorite food, the only dish they ever cook, is pumpkin soup. But one day, when the pumpkin patch yields no ripe pumpkins, they are forced to get creative. After consulting their cookbook, they find a recipe for fish soup, and they head for the shores with their fishing poles. Coming home with a basket full of trout, the friends carefully cook up a pot of fish soup. Cat loves it, and Squirrel thinks its delicious, but Duck wont even taste it. So the trio finds a new recipe, this time for
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This week, my friend, Will sent me an internet link to Bill Moyers October 2013 interview with Wendell Berry. If youre not familiar with Mr. Berry, let me acquaint you. If you are familiar with him, please read on anyway! 79-year-old Wendell Berry is a prolific and award-winning author of fiction, poetry and books about sustainability and the land. He is a lecturer, environmental activist, a champion of true democracy and a farmer. Hes also one of my heroes. In 1965 Wendell and his wife purchased a farm near Port Royal, Kentucky. They engaged in sustainable
Peace on Earth
by DIANNE HESSELBEIN AND MELISSA SARGENT, STATE REPS.

Guest Column
GOP-created crisis shows need for redistricting reform

erendum on the question of whether the Wisconsin Legislature should adopt a non-partisan system for the redistricting of legislative and congressional districts in the state. As a freshmen caucus, we not only believe in redistricting reform, but that the people should have their say on this crucial issue. Redistricting is truly at the heart of all other matters that we have seen in our first term in the state legislature. At the top of that list is the legislative Republicans mishandling of the implementation of the Affordable Care Act here in Wisconsin. During the special session last week, Assembly Republicans voted to deny health care for 83,000 childless adults below the poverty line, who were previously promised access to coverage by the Governor. Governor Walker and the Republicans caused this crisis by rejecting the federal Medicaid money allotted to Wisconsin under the Affordable Care Act. Had the Governor chosen to strengthen BadgerCare in the current budget, Wisconsin would have insured 85,000 more people, saved Wisconsin taxpayers $86 million and created 10,000 Wisconsin jobs. So why is this clearly irrational, irresponsible decision being made? Due to the gerrymandered redistricting process, the seats held by Assembly Republicans are so far to the right that the representatives viewpoints are necessarily extreme for fear of a primary challenge. In electoral politics, naturally occurring swing seats create legislators who must be willing to listen to both sides of an issue or they will likely be voted out of office. Wisconsins system has failed to create an adequate number of competitive seats, and therefore we end up in the situation we are in today: making extreme, partisan decisions that hurt the citizens of Wisconsin. As freshmen legislators new to this process, we do not wish to rehash the past in which both sides have doled out blame for redistricting to one partys advantage at one time or another. With their gerrymandered districts drawn as they wished behind closed doors, the GOP is now pushing their
agricultural practices before the word was fashionable. At age 79, he continues to raise a diversity of crops and livestock in ways that nurture, rather than deplete the land. In 1977 he wrote a landmark book called The Unsettling of America: Culture and Agriculture. The October interview with Bill Moyers happened during a conference celebrating the 35th anniversary of this landmark and prophetic work. The book, published by Sierra Club Books, is on its 3rd edition. In it, Berry argues that mega industrialized agribusiness takes farming away from families. In 1935, America had 6.8 million family farms. In 2012 only about 2.1 million remained. The American Farmland Trust estimates that an acre of farmland goes out of farming and into development every
two minutes. As we have increasingly witnessed since the first printing, the loss of family farms has led to the breakdown of small communities and societys connection to the food it eats. We have become estranged from the land and its needs. Diverse agriculture employs more people than monoculture production. The aim of the industrial revolution was to decrease production costs by minimizing labor costs. It is a doubleedge sword that has led to loss of livelihoods, not just for manufacturing, but for farming as well. We dont have a right, Berry begins, to ask whether were going to succeed or not. The only question that we have a right to ask is whats the right thing to do? What does the earth require of us if were going to continue to live on it. By definition, capitalism is an economic system, in which trade and the means of production are controlled by private owners. True democracy is a system where all eligible citizens participate in government equally. In America, capitalism has moved
from an economic system to one of governance. When corporations were given status as voters, equal participation in government fell away. Ive created my own definition of capitalism. It goes like this, capitalism noun; big business encroachment on Americas capital cities and governments. We need our corporate and political leaders to ask, What is the right thing to do? Not, What are our profit margins today? This is particularly true in Wisconsin right now, as Gogebic Taconite mine is willing to devastate pristine water and land resources to mine low-grade and marginally profitable ore from the Penokee Range. Things reveal themselves when passing away, Berry says in the interview. They reveal their preciousness and show us our duty. Wishes for Peace on Earth are criss-crossing the country in holiday greetings as I write this. I wish we could bring peace by just extending our hopes for it. But, like healthy and diverse crops, peace is a cultivated commodity. It must be grown with intention, patience and wisdom.
Despite his observations and criticisms of the state of the environment, farms and democracy, the interview with Berry rings of hope. His words and the way he lives are wonderful examples of how each of us can cultivate a peaceful relationship with the land, and with our fellow citizens by recreating true democracy and economic justice in America. You dont have to be a farmer to support family farms. Buying local foods that are produced with sustainable practices, support the farmer and the land. Give a gift to the earth this December by contributing time or money to an environmental organization like the Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters. Or, take a few minutes to contact your legislator in support of bills that protect our air, water and soil. Pop a bowl of popcorn and take some time out of Decembers hustle and bustle to watch Moyers thirty minute interview with Wendell Berry at billmoyers.com. I wish you all a bumper crop of peace in 2014!
Our Assembly Democratic freshmen class has taken on redistricting reform as our legislative focus during the 2013-14 legislative session. As the Democratic freshmen caucus cochairs we were proud to introduce Assembly Bill 185 earlier this year which would hand over control of the redistricting process to the non-partisan Legislative Reference Bureau instead of the political party in control at the time the re-mapping takes place. Last week, we introduced a joint resolution calling for an advisory ref-
We have welcomed over 80 families from all parts of Wisconsin and beyond since opening our doors almost one year ago. It has been a great journey filled with amazing stories. We have met complete strangers who arrived as guests who will be lifelong friends, we have shared in the thrill of those who have been blessed to return home with good health and have shared tears with those who have lost a loved one. While the transplant journey towards recovery differs greatly amongst our guests, our visitors are always unanimous in their praise for The Good Neighbors they have encountered during their stay here in Middleton. We routinely have guests here for several weeks during the recovery phase and many of them take great joy in walking around the downtown area and sam-
Thank you for support of Restoring Hope

Dear editor,
pling the many great dining, shopping and entertainment options that are nearby. Many have shared their heart touching transplant stories while out in the neighborhood and returned with great stories of restaurants going out of their way to accommodate them, shopkeepers getting to know them on a first name basis, residents inviting them over to their homes and friendly waves and conversation during walks. We thank all of you who have welcomed our guests with the trademark Middleton kindness. Your support and kind words mean more to their recovery than you will ever know. As a nonprofit, being able to continue welcoming these families from near and far depends greatly on continued financial and in-kind support. We certainly could not do this without you. Thank you for restoring hope to the many families we have welcomed to the Good Neighbor City this past year. Happy Holidays, Cindy Herbst Executive Director Restoring Hope Transplant House
L ETTERS
The City of Middletons December 3 public hearing on the 2014 Proposed City Budget was disappointing for anyone who appeared before the Common Council to voice their concerns. Granted, the opportunity to speak was presented to the public but any viewpoints or recommendations shared with the Council members fell on deaf ears. In a nutshell, there was little value in providing a taxpayers viewpoint regarding the budget at that hearing. The Common Council was simply going through the motions prior to passage of the budget they desired. In advance of the hearing the vast majority of Council members had already made up their minds on passage of the budget,.
With yet another tax hike, the city council is running out of time, excuses
To the editor,
TO THE
E DITOR
partisan, divisive agenda in the light of day. The irony is obvious watching the Assembly Republicans try to solve the healthcare crisis that they created to begin with. To continue to play a shell game with health care access is truly indefensible. While blaming the federal government or ObamaCare may be a convenient talking point, it is a cruel distraction to those who have urgent health care needs that will not be met. While Scott Walker may be asking Wisconsinites to forego Christmas gifts for their children in order to donate to his campaign, our hope is that he and the legislative Republicans give the people the gifts of fair, transparent government and affordable, accessible health care this year.
For future hearings I would suggest that a different format be used for developing the Proposed City Budget. Instead of holding the public hearing at the very end of the process when the numbers are already final, hold a public hearing earlier in the development cycle after preliminary numbers have been developed. At least the citizens would be provided the opportunity to input their viewpoints and concerns with a greater sense of possible inclusion, prior to the budget being determined. Looking forward, the Common Council has placed the taxpayer in a corner with no way to escape. This is the result of past and present building plans and the borrowing required in order to construct them. The 8.4% increase in 2014 City of Middleton mill rate is primarily attributed to interest payments on the incurred debt. For both the 2014 Budget and future ones, there is little the city can do outside of cuts in services and cuts in City staff to avoid similar these hefty property tax hikes. Council members brag about the
positive attributes of Middleton and their past actions. Certainly to a degree what they say is true; however, the taxpayers of this city have not experienced similar increases in their incomes to help offset the impacts of these large tax increases. Moreover, the past favorable position of Middletons tax rate when compared to similar sized communitys tax rates has quickly evaporated. What does this have to say about our past and present Common Council decisions? It is hard to say because a strong economic recovery is desperately required to cover prior Council commitments. If property values do not rebound soon there will be more tax increases of this size. Something will have to be done in the coming months. The Common Council is running out of time and excuses. In the interim, the Middleton property taxpayers better get prepared for more bad news. Thanks. George Wennerlyn
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Meet Elizabeth Pritts: mother, wife, karate student, running enthusiast, business owner, and community supporter. Elizabeth and her husband, David Olive, are the founders of the Wisconsin Fertility Institute, a Middleton company that specializes in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, as well as complex and advanced gynecology. Elizabeth is very renowned in her field, as she is the only advanced laparoscopic and hysteroscopic trained surgeon in the state, has been named one of Madisons Top Doctors since 2002, and has been one of Americas Best Doctors since 2009. Elizabeth was born in Vallejo, California, as the third of four children. After attending medical school, Elizabeth was finishing a fellowship in San Francisco when her dream job opened
Elizabeth Pritts
On this Decembers property tax bills, statewide school levies are rising 0.8%, while county (1.2%) and technical college district (1.3%) levies are close behind, according to new reports from the nonpartisan, nonprofit Wis-
WISTAX report: school taxes increase

consin Taxpayers Alliance (WISTAX). All told, school taxes will total $4.69 billion; county levies, $2.01 billion; and technical college levies, $796.69 million. These three taxes, along with a small state forestry tax, comprise almost 80% of the typical December property tax bill. Combined, the four levies are up 1.0% this year. School levies are limited by statemandated revenue limits, which have been tightened in recent years. Since 2011, school taxes have recorded total growth of just 0.1%, WISTAX said. While changes vary widely by district, this year, 44% (185 of 424) of districts raised or lowered their levies by 2.5% or less. About one in six (72) increased them 5% or more, while 32 lowered them by similar amounts. Possible reasons for large property tax changes include new or expiring referenda to exceed revenue caps, and large increases or decreases in state school aids. The largest school levy increases were in Niagara (50.1%), Blair-Taylor (38.4%), Mercer (30.2%), Lake Holcombe (26.3%), and Rio (25.1%). The largest drops were in Walworth J1 (19.0%), Boscobel (-17.3%), Bristol #1 (-15.0%), Wabeno (-12.3%), and Pittsville (-11.5%). Tightened state limits on county and technical college levies also limited tax growth. Counties are allowed to raise levies by the percent increase in net new construction. As a result, 51 of 72 counties raised taxes by less than 3%; another seven cut taxes. The largest reduction (3.7%) came in Winnebago county; the largest increases in Monroe (16.8%), Burnett (6.6%), and Pierce (6.2%) counties. Technical colleges levies are also
up at the University of Wisconsin Madison. After being selected for the position, Elizabeth and her husband made the move to Wisconsin. Several years later, Elizabeth decided to leave the UW, and work with her husband to create their own dream jobs. This was the birth of the Wisconsin Fertility Institute. Evidently, Elizabeth is an incredibly hard worker, even disclosing to me that she wanted to be a career person, never marrying or having kids. However, her husband managed to talk her into being both a wife and mother. Elizabeths two daughters, Taina, 13, and Midlyne, nine, were adopted four and a half years ago from Haiti. Fortunately, the adoption was finalized a year before the devastating earthquake struck in 2010, destroying the girls orphanage. Elizabeth and her husband are a part of several organizations in the community. Each year, they support the cocktail hour at the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Gala and
contribute to the American Red Cross Real Heroes Celebration. Elizabeth is also the previous President of the Dane County Medical Society and serves on the Board of Directors for Family Health Ministries, the group that built the girls former orphanage in Haiti. Currently, through Family Health Ministries, Elizabeth is aiding in the development of a women and childrens hospital in Logne, Haiti. When asked what her favorite thing about Middleton is, Elizabeth answered the people without hesitation. She explained how gracious her neighbors had been when she and her husband first moved in 12 years ago. This graciousness has continued throughout their residency, with neighbors bringing over food or mowing the lawn when her husband was sick, and bringing clothes and toys for Taina and Midlyne when they arrived. After school and work, you can often find the family spending time together at Kicks Unlimited Middleton, where all four of them are members. Elizabeth is currently an orange belt, working her way to green belt. The family also enjoys going to the Good Neighbor Parade and the Lakeview Park Splashpad. Stay tuned to meet more of your Good Neighbors! In the meantime, if you know someone who you think is a Good Neighbor and deserves recognition, email me at alissajpfeiffer@gmail.com.
TAXES
Elizabeth Pritts is co-founder of the Wisconsin Fertility Institute, a Middleton company that specializes in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, as well as complex and advanced gynecology.
Photo contributed
tied to net new construction. This years 1.3% increase is the smallest in over a decade. Technical college levy growth peaked in 2001-02 at 9.7%. With the exception of North Central (+3.2%) and Western Wisconsin (+19.0%), changes in technical college levies varied little, ranging from a decline of 1.1% in Milwaukee to an increase of 1.6% in Blackhawk. The increase in Western Wisconsin was due to voter approval of $79.8 million in new buildings. More detail on December property tax levies are contained in a two-part series of WISTAX Focus newsletters, New property tax bills for 2013-14. The reports are available at www.wistax.org or by emailing wistax@wistax.org; calling 608.241.9789; or writing WISTAX at 401 North Lawn Ave., Madison, WI 53704-5033.
The Middleton Police Department is reminding local residents and businesses to not leave mail in their mailboxes overnight for pickup the following day. In a recent case, an outgoing check was stolen from a business mailbox in the 2100 block of Eagle Drive sometime overnight on Tuesday, December 3. The suspect(s) copied and altered checks and presented the fraudulent checks for payment, resulting in the suspect(s) cashing them in for almost $10,000. This is an active investigation with further follow up to be done. If you have any information about this crime, please call or text Middleton Police at 608-824-7300. Tipsters can submit information anonymously on at www.middletonpd.com/crimestoppers.htm. Please reference incident number 13-8089.
Cops warn of theft from mailboxes
At approximately 4:50 p.m. on Tuesday, December 3, Dane County Sheriffs deputies responded to a car vs. pedestrian crash at 5538 Sunset Trail in the Town of Westport. Michael J. McGettigan, age 50 of Waunakee, was traveling north on Sunset Trail when he struck Tyson M. Krueger, age 30 of Spring Green.
Car hits man in heavy fog

PAGE 11
Krueger was working on the side of the road with a leaf collecting crew. He was transported to UW Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. McGettigan was arrested for OWI, 3rd Offense, Causing Injury, and Operating Without a License. He was booked into the Dane County Jail.
A holiday tradition
Times-Tribune photo by Matt Geiger
Debbie Roth, of Black Earth, enjoyed sunny but frigid temperatures while helping her family pick out a tree Friday at Summers Christmas Stree Farm in the Town of Middleton.
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PAGE 14
Girls basketball team rolls past Beloit, Parker

by ROB REISCHEL
Times-Tribune
Finding a groove
Follow Rob Reischel on Twitter at @robreischel
There are positives all around. There are also areas that must be shored up. But perhaps the most encouraging thing for Middletons girls basketball team is its winning games in spite of a few problem spots. The Cardinals opened Big Eight Conference play last week with a 7860 dismantling of Beloit Memorial on Thursday and a 71-64 win over Janesville Parker on Saturday. Middleton improved to 2-0 in the conference and 2-1 overall. After the first two conference games there are some positives as well as some concerns, Middleton coach Jeff Kind said. On a positive note, were scoring points and were getting production from a variety of players. Of concern are three major areas right now. While were making teams play up-tempo, weve been conceding too many easy baskets. We have to clean up our press, especially in the recovery and defensive rebounding phases. Weve been putting people on the line too much and must learn to be aggressive without fouling. And we
are still turning the ball over too much. Still, theres much to be excited about. Janesville Parker is the defending Big Eight champion and has had one of the states elite outfits for more than two decades. But sophomore guard Grace Douglas scored 19 points to lead four Middleton players in double figures as the Cardinals upended the Vikings. Senior guard Darby Raffel knocked down four three-point shots and scored 14 points, junior forward Jenna Blair added 13 points and junior guard Elizabeth Norregard added 11 points. Middleton led, 48-47, heading to the fourth quarter. But the Cardinals used a big final period to pull away. Grace Douglas came up with a big night against Parker, Kind said. And weve been able to get some fairly consistent three-point scoring from Elizabeth, Darby and Jenna when teams have zoned us. Weve gotten people to the rim when theyre going player-to-player. Weve been able to make the games our pace so far. Middleton definitely had the pace it wanted against Beloit Memorial. Junior forward Cole Jordee led all scorers with 19 points, while Norregard added 16 and Douglas had 14. Middleton led, 19-12, after the first quarter and 44-29 at halftime. The See GIRLS BB, page 18
Grace Douglas and Middletons girls basketball team won their first two Big Eight Conference games last week.
C o l e Zillner (21) a n d Middletons boys basketball team are off to a 1-2 start in the Big Eight Conference.
Times-Tribune photo by Mary Langenfeld
Boys basketball team falls to Beloit Memorial

by ROB REISCHEL
Times-Tribune
Shocker
Middletons boys basketball team believes it can win the Big Eight Conference championship this fall. And theres certainly evidence to suggest thats possible. But if the Cardinals are going to make a run at the crown, they cant have any more hiccups. Middleton fell to Beloit Memorial, 64-53, last Friday in a game that undoubtedly stunned many throughout the conference. The loss came just three days after Middleton defeated 10-time defending conference champion Madison Memorial. The Cardinals fell to 1-2 in the league and overall, while Beloit Memorial improved to 4-1 overall and 2-1 in the conference. We knew coming in that this was the best the league was going to be top to bottom since weve been here,
Middleton coach Kevin Bavery said. There are no Vander Blues or Will Hudsons, but its the deepest and most senior-led rosters across the board. Beloit fits right in. Theyre senior dominated with two- and three-year starters, good shooting and point guard play, and two big physical presences inside. So no apologies about losing to an inferior opponent, yet we are disappointed any time the result could have gone another way. Disappointed but definitely not discouraged. Middleton senior forward Max Oelerich led the Cardinals with 13 points and five rebounds, while senior guard Luke Schafer added 12 points. Senior guard Derek Rongstad had 11 points, six rebounds and three assists. Draylen Fair led Beloit with 15 points, while Armann Carbrera had 14, Andre Neal 13 and Blake Farr 12. Denzel Barnes had seven points to go with his 12 rebounds. Our guys always play hard, Bavery said. But the focus needs to take another step up. Beloit Memorial jumped to a quick 5-0 lead and held an 18-13 lead at the See BOYS BB, page 19
Middleton 2-0 in conference

by ROB REISCHEL
Times-Tribune
Hockey Cards start Big 8 play strong

PAGE 15
Middletons hockey team would love to win every time it takes the ice. But if the Cardinals were going to suffer a defeat last week, they picked the right game to do so. Middleton won a pair of Big Eight Conference games, toppling Sun Prairie, 4-1, last Tuesday and downing Madison Memorial, 2-1, in overtime last Thursday. The Cardinals fell to Monona Grove, 7-5, last Saturday, but still felt pretty good about gaining four points in the conference. The good news is we won the two conference games, Middleton cocoach Steve Libert said. We had a great opportunity to sweep the week, but we ran out of gas and let our fading legs affect our hockey brain. The phrase for the week is activity is not achievement. In two of the games we really played with a lot of energy, but that energy is blasting out in all directions rather than being focused. Our inexperience showed up via our lack of knowing and accepting our responsibilities during the game. Middleton rolled past Sun Prairie, despite the fact Libert said his team did not play well. Jordan Carey gave Middleton a 10 lead at 9:54 of the first period on an assist from Michael Bakken. It stayed that way until the third period, when Sun Prairie scored just 14 seconds into the period. But Middleton responded with three straight goals. First, Taylor Dickert scored less than three minutes into the period to give Middleton a 2-1 lead. Davis Bunz and Daylon Reifsteck had assists. Carey made it 3-1 at 12:06 on a shorthanded goal assisted by Casey Harper. And Brendan Sheehan had a power play goal with 6:26 remaining in the game. Tony Wuesthofen got the win in goal and made 13 saves. The game was played with a lack of tenacity and discipline, Libert said. We floated around like plastic bags in a windy parking lot. A lot of activity but nothing accomplished. Tony played goalie and did well. He only had to make 13 saves, but was ready when he needed to be. Middleton then earned a hard fought win over a much-improved Madison Memorial team. With less than a minute left in overtime, Ryan Dohmeier beat two players out of the corner. Dohmeier fed the puck to Carey, who scored the game-winner with just 24 seconds left in the OT. Middleton had eight penalties that totaled 30 minutes, while the Spartans had just two penalties for four minutes. But the Cardinals persevered. Dohmeier scored midway through the first period, while Memorial got the equalizer during a 5-on-3 in the second period. It stayed that way until Careys game-winner. Zach Kasdorf got the win for the Cardinals after registering 25 saves. It was a great win, Libert said. There was a ton of adversity, but the guys stayed calm and kept playing as well as they could. There were plenty of opportunities to go haywire, but they remained on the page by minding themselves. The Cardinals then fell to Monona Grove Saturday night. Middleton led, 3-0, through one period and 5-3 early in the third period. But the Cardinals ran out of steam. As the (third) period went on we
Ta y l o r Dickert (10) a n d Middletons hockey team jumped to a 2-0 start in the Big E i g h t Conference last week.
just fell into their style rather than remaining responsible to our plan and teammates, Libert said. We still had plenty of chances to score, but the problem was we gave them too many chances. Middleton got first period goals from Carey, Bunz and Garrett Graf. After the Silver Eagles scored three straight goals, Harper had two in a row as Middleton surged to a 5-3 lead. But the Cardinals couldnt seal the deal. Our undisciplined play allowed them the take the middle ice and get scoring chances while we chased them around, Libert said.
Dec. 7 Monona Grove 7, Middleton 5 Monona Grove ........ 0 3 4 7 Middleton .... 3 1 1 5 First period: Mi Carey (Harper), 8:43; Bunz (Graf), 13:28; Graf (Bunz, Harper) (pp), 15:59. Second period: MG Johnston (pp), 0:12; Probendaro (Patton) (pp), 5:23; Johnston (pp),
Sometimes it is better to let the play come to you. Maybe we just did not have enough gas in the tank to finish this game. On deck: Middleton was at Janesville Tuesday, then is off an entire week before hosting Madison East/La Follette next Tuesday at 8 p.m.
12:00; M Harper (Carey) (sh), 16:59. Third period: Mi Harper (Reifsteck), 1:51; MG West (Johnston) (pp), 5:25; Patton (Dutcher), 12:51; Dutcher (Johnston) (pp), 15:42; Patton (en), 16:54. Saves: M (Wuesthofen) 22; MG (Nahirniak) 33. Penalties: Mi 10-28; MG 6-12. Dec. 5 Middleton 2, Madison Memorial 1 (OT) Middleton 1 0 0 1 2 Madison Memorial .... 0 1 0 0 1 First period: Mi Dohmeier (Harper), 8:27. Second period: MM Padley (Byce,
Dec. 3 Middleton 4, Sun Prairie 1 Middleton ............ 0 1 3 4 Sun Prairie .............. 0 0 1 1 Second period: Mi Carey (Bakken), 9:54. Third period: SP Mikula, 0:14; Mi Sheehan (pp), 6:26; Carey (Harper), 12:06; Dickert (Bunz, Reifsteck), 14:14. Saves: M (Wuesthofen) 13, SP (Thornton) 30. Penalties M 2-4, SP 1-2
Karns), 8:36. OT: Mi Carey (Harper), 0:24. Saves: M (Kasdorf) 25; MM (Osborn) 29. Penalties: M 8-30, MM 2-4.
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Middletons girls gymnastics team set to take flight

by ROB REISCHEL
Times-Tribune
Learning to fly
Kari Steck is a little different than most coaches. Middletons girls gymnastics boss doesn't talk about conference championships, sectional titles and trips to state. Instead, Steck likes to keep her goal list lighter. I have the same expectations for the girls every year, said Steck, whose team opened its season Tuesday at Mount Horeb. I want them to have fun, make memories, and accomplish their personal and team goals. To me, thats what gymnastics is all about. When the girls are having fun, it will show in their routines and scores. Thats certainly been the case during Stecks first two seasons. Middleton won Big Eight Conference and sectional titles in both 2012 and 13. The Cardinals were then sixth at state in 2012 and seventh a year ago. With several gifted gymnasts back, the Cardinals could be poised for another big year. The star of the show will once again be senior Aryn Skibba. A year ago, Skibba was fifth at state in the all-around competition. She was also
fourth on the vault, fifth on the balance beam and sixth on the floor exercise. Skibba will miss some time early in the season due to some chronic pain. But when Skibba returns, she could be poised for a memorable year. Aryn worked very hard over the summer and has several new skills to show for her senior year, Steck said. Staying healthy will be a biggie for Aryn, Aryn has never been a gymnast that is in it for her. I think her goals are to stay healthy, have fun, and be successful as a team. She is a senior and a captain, and this year is a year she wants to remember. Junior Lucy Bergenthal is competing on varsity for a third year. Bergenthal figures to be one of the Cardinals all-arounders once again. Lucy works very hard and is determined to help her team, Steck said. Senior Gabby Aranda has battled injuries throughout her career, but hopes to compete in all four events this season. If she stays healthy, Gabby will definitely be one to watch this year, Steck said. She has a drive and motivation that you cant teach. Sophomore Katherine Marshall and junior Lauren Ace are two others that Steck expects to blossom. Lauren also worked very hard over the summer. She has improved drastically this year, and I think shell be a key player, Steck said. Katherine has a great amount of power and drive. As a sophomore, I
think shell be one to keep an eye on. Freshmen Madeline PflastererJennerjohn and Daniella Aranda also figure to make some noise. Pflasterer-Jennerjohn recently had back surgery, but has returned as strong as ever. You wouldnt know it by watching her practice, Steck said of Pflasterer-Jennerjohn. She works very hard, has a great attitude, and is a very talented gymnast.
Aryn Skibba and Middletons girls gymnastics team are hoping for another big season. Gabby Aranda is another gymnast with a world of potential. She will also be one to watch, Steck said of Aranda. She has a ton of potential. So do the Cardinals. And that could make for another memorable season.
File photo
MHS GIRLS GYMNASTICS ROSTER

Seniors: Aryn Skibba,
Gabby
Aranda. Juniors: Lucy Bergenthal, Morgan Charlton, Maygan Neisius, Karlee Ketelboeter, Lauren Ace, Marie Lawton. Sophomores: Megan Lange, Katherine Marshall, Kat Stein, Hannah Miller. Freshmen: Madeline PflastererJennerjohn, Daniella Aranda.
MHS swimmers start off strong

by ROB REISCHEL
Times-Tribune
Making a splash
PAGE 17
It was a week that had to border on exhausting and exhilarating all at the same time. Middletons boys swimming team opened its season with three meets in five days, and performed admirably at each one. The highlight came Saturday, when Middleton won a championship at the 14-team Nicolet Sprint Invite. The Cardinals also dropped a dual meet to Madison Memorial and finished in third place at the Brookfield East Invite. It was a long week for the team, Middleton coach Luke Lengfeld said. The times got better and we put our best foot forward. Middleton was at its best during the Nicolet Invite. The Cardinals were runaway winners, finishing with 386 points. Cedarburg was a distant second at 252, while Shorewood (236), Verona/Mount Horeb (227) and Waukesha North/ Kettle Moraine/ Pewaukee (202) rounded out the top five. Middleton won the 400 yard medley relay and the 500 yard freestyle relay, and was third in the 200 yard freestyle relay. Middletons Hans Kunsch won the 50 yard backstroke, while Cooper Green was third. Lex Peterson was third in the 50 yard butterfly, while teammates Derek Petit, Luke Delaney and Harrison Bielinski were sixth, seventh and 10th, respectively. Lars Haskins was fourth in the 50 yard freestyle, while Petit and Matthew Lieferman were 12th and 13th, respectively.
Green was fifth in the 200 yard freestyle, while Josh Reddemann was eighth and Delaney was 11th. Haskins was fifth in the 100 yard freestyle, while Josh Reddemann was 11th. Rory Slattery was fifth in the 50 yard breaststroke, while Ethan Lengfeld and Will Zocher were ninth and 10th, respectively. The Cardinals Jacob Aegerter and Peterson were sixth and seventh, respectively, in the 100 yard IM. Aegerter was also seventh in the 200 yard IM, while teammate James Mai was 10th. And Middletons Jack Zocher was fifth in the one-meter diving, while Will Myrland was ninth. This year we won by more points then we did the last two years, Luke Lengfeld said of winning the Nicolet Invite. As the days went on and throughout the week the guys were more and more focused. Memorial won all 11 events during its win over the Cardinals. But Middleton won the JV event. It was the first time Madison Memorials JV lost since that coach took over, Lengfeld said. That is a great accomplishment for the beginning of the year.
Josh Reddemann and Middletons boys swimming team won the Nicolet Sprint Invite las Saturday. Middleton was also third at the Brookfield East Invite. Madison Memorial won that event with 567 points, followed by Arrowhead (362), Middleton (328), Brookfield East (321) and Brookfield Academy (114). Middletons quartet of Kunsch, Slattery, Peterson and Haskins was third in the 200 yard medley relay. Peterson and Petit finished third and fourth, respectively, in the 100 yard butterfly, while Haskins was fifth in the 50 yard freestyle. Haskins was also fifth in the 100 yard freestyle, and Middletons 200 yard freestyle relay team of Green, Aegerter, Bielski and Delany was third. Middletons 400 yard freestyle relay team of Haskins, Peterson, Green and Aegerter was also fourth. On deck: Middleton hosts Janesville Parker and Madison La Follette in a triangular Thursday at 5:30 p.m. The Cardinals then are at the Janesville Parker Invite Saturday at 11 a.m.
Mt. Horeb 227; 5, Waukesha North/ Kettle Moraine/ Pewaukee 202; 6, Kenosha Tremper 173; 7, Nicolet 155; 8, Wauwatosa East/ West 141; 9, Whitefish Bay 136; 10, Grafton 127; 11, Milw. Marquette 126; 12, Madison La Follette 47; 13, Madison East 39; 14, Brown Deer/ University School 26. Event winners 400-yard medley relay: MID, 3:26.97. 200 freestyle: Nick Plachinski, CED, 1:43.27. 100 individual medley: Danny Larson, TEW, 56.57. 50 free: Kade McGilvray, VER, 22.52. 50 butterfly: McGilvray, VER, 24.61. 100 free: Larson, TEW, 48.71. 200 individual medley: Plachinski, CED, 2:01.18. 200 free relay: VER, 1:31.10. 50 backstroke: Hans Kunsch, MID, 26.22. 50 breaststroke: Jack Senczyszyn, GRA, 29.40. 500 free relay: MID, 3:54.98. Diving: Joe Kaszubowski, WFB, 490.90.
Dec. 7 Nicolet Sprint Invite Team scores 1, Middleton 386; 2, Cedarburg 252; 3, Shorewood 236; 4, Verona/
Dec. 3 Brookfield East Invite Team scores 1, Madison Memorial 567; 2, Arrowhead 362; 3, Middleton 328; 4, Brookfield 321; 5, Brookfield Academy 114. Event winners 200-yard medley relay: MM (Justin Temprano, Sam Szotkowski, Ben Gebhart, John Hornacek), 1:38.55. 200 freestyle: Brian Borden, BRO, 1:47.75. 200 individual medley: Kevin Van Cleve, BA, 1:58.05. 50 free: Alex Peterson-Weber, MM, 22.19. 100 butterfly: Gebhart, MM, 53.86. 100 free: Hornacek, MM, 48.57. 500 free: Van Cleve, BA, 4:55.18. 200 free relay: MM (Peterson-Weber, Szotkowski, Alex Battaglia, Nathan Eckerle), 1:28.82. 100 backstroke: Borden, BRO, 53.72. 100 breaststroke: Amos Kaldor, MM, 1:02.44. 400 free relay: MM (Temprano, Peterson-Weber, Eckerle, Hornacek), 3:17.58.
PAGE 18
Sports briefs
Dance routine Fundraiser at Middleton Sport Bowl
The Middleton Dance Team will teach participants a routine to be performed at halftime of the boys varsity basketball game on Jan. 4. Kids will be divided into different age groups and each group will learn and perform a different routine. The older the kids are, the more difficult the routine. Kids will play games, get pizza and fruit, and receive a T-shirt to wear and take home. Parents will also receive two tickets for admission into the game. More detailed information will be e-mailed to registered parents prior to the clinic. Registration is due Dec. 20. The cost is $30 per child and checks can be made payable to the MHS Dance Team. Any questions can be emailed to mhsdanceteamcoach@gmail.com. A fundraiser will be held for Patti Nicholson on Dec. 14 at the Middleton Sport Bowl from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Nicholson was the secretary to the principal at Middleton High School and a district employee for 18 years. She was diagnosed with ALS 1 1/2 years ago. There will be a silent auction from 4-6:30 p.m. and bowling from 4:306:30 p.m. There will be a raffle from 4-7:30 p.m. and a bake sale from 4-8 p.m. The cost to bowl is $30 per person on a team of four. That includes three games of bowling, pizza and drink. Sign-up and prepay prior to the event is preferred. Contact Kathleen Shaffer (kshaffer@mcpasd.k12.wi.us or 608-8299912) or Cheryl Lingard (clingard@mcpasd.k12.wi.us or 608-829-9926) to register for the event.
Wrestlers 2nd at Reedsburg

Middleton heavyweight Sean Benedict scored a pin over La Crosse Logans Duncan Metz-Beard last Saturday. by ROB REISCHEL
Times-Tribune
News Publishing Co. photo by Jeff Seering
Middletons wrestling team opened its season by finishing in second place at the Reedsburg Invite on Saturday. Host Reedsburg won the seventeam event, followed by Middleton, La Crosse Logan, Westby, Westfield, Oregon and Monroe. Middleton opened with a 38-36 win over La Crosse Logan. The Cardinals got pins from Brandon Best at 152 pounds, Nathan Dresen at 160, Shay Haase (170), Taggart Haase (182) and Sean Benedict (heavyweight). Middletons Chris Rogers notched Cardinals then maintained a comfortable lead throughout the second half. Kind is extremely optimistic about what hes seen the first two conference games. And he knows the Cardinals could be deadly if they get a few areas corrected. All things considered, I think we have a great upside if we can shore up those areas, Kind said. On deck: Middleton hosted Madison East Tuesday night, then is at Madison West Friday at 7:30 p.m. The
Middleton Ladies Dec. 3 Jeanne Schenck 604, Verelene Morris 537, Patti Larson 536, Cheri Theis 511, Mary Moody 507, Janie Lange 503, Janice Williams 499, Bonnie Coy 496, Donna Cushman 491, Kristie Stapleton 488, Debbie Swain 479, Lyn Passini 479, Theresa Meisel 476, Cindy Hall 452.
n GIRLS BB
a 12-2 win at 126 and Marino Alcorta had a 10-0 victory at 145. The Cardinals then rolled past Oregon, 57-15. Middleton got pins from Trevaun Turner at 113, Rogers (126), Best (152), Dresen (160), Shay Haase (170), Lon Yeary (220) and Benedict (heavyweight). Middletons Colton Best received a forfeit at 106, Justin Swiersz posted a 6-5 win at 132, Alcorta had a 9-2 win at 145 and Taggart Haase notched a 3-2 win at 182. Middleton also cruised past Westby, 54-16. Turner (113), Rogers (126), Dresen (160), Shay Haase (170), Taggart Haase (182) and Benedict
(heavyweight) all pinned their foes. Terrence Self (120), Swiersz and Shane Bishop (138) all received forfeits as the Cardinals rolled. Middleton then fell to Reedsburg in the match that decided the eventual champion, 45-29. Turner notched a pin at 113, as did Dresen (160), Shay Haase (170) and Yeary. Bishop also won at 138 when his opponent was disqualified. But it wasnt enough and the Cardinals settled for second place. On deck: Middleton opens Big Eight Conference play Friday at Madison La Follette at 7 p.m. The Cardinals then travel to the Tomah Invitational Saturday at 9:30 a.m., then host Madison East Tuesday at 7 p.m. continued from page 14
Cardinals then host Verona in an early-season showdown next Thursday at 7:30 p.m.
BOWLING
(205), Kelly Capener 555, Steve Holznagel 541 (224), Tony Ziegler 529, Kari Capener 525, Janet Meinholz 523 (207), Dennis Masaki 519 (202), Jim Campbell 509, Greg
Dec. 5 Middleton 78, Beloit Memorial 60 Beloit Memorial .. 12 17 18 13 60 Middleton . 19 25 19 15 78 BELOIT MEMORIAL Whittington 8, Ellis 4, Anderson 8, Winston 6, Dorsey 13, Kiger 7, Evans 14. Totals 22 16-27 60. MIDDLETON Norregaard 16, Roach 4, Peterson 3, Raffel 9, McMahon 6, Blair 2, Douglas 14, Bergum 2, Jordee 19, Bunion 3. Totals 30 12-17 78. Three-point goals M 6 (Norregard 4, Peterson, Raffel). Total fouls BM 20, M 20.
Dec. 7 Middleton 71, Janesville Parker 64 Janesville Parker .. 14 14 19 17 64 Middleton .. 12 15 21 23 71 Parker P. Foster, 1-0-2; Porter, 2-0-6; Smith, 0-4-4; K. Foster, 6-8-21; Dubanowich, 32-9; Thompson, 3-1-9; Uhl, 2-0-5. Totals: 21-1664. Middleton Norregaard, 4-0-11; Rassel, 42-14; Peterson, 0-1-1; McMahon, 3-0-6; Blair, 42-13; Douglas, 5-9-19; Jordee, 0-5-5; Passini, 10-3. 21-19-71. Three-point goalsParker 7 (Porter 2, K. Foster, Thompson 2, Dubanowich, Uhl), Middleton 10 (Norregaard 3, Rassel 4, Blair 3). Total foulsParker 24, Middleton 19. Fouled outSmith.
Fritz 505, Cheryl Hitchins 503 (213), Vana Smith-Steffen 479, Elaine Ziegler 475, Cindy Hall 456, Mavis Severson 453, Mary Jo Acker 452.
Nov. 12 Jeanne Schrenk 580, Janie Lange 551, Terri Scheel 531, Frayne Born 526, Melissa Carlson 517, Sandy Statz 490, Cindy Hall 478, Mary Moody 474, Jane Resudek 470, Lyn Passini 467, Nancy Hellenbrand 463, Debbie Swain 450.
Nov. 19 Theresa Meisel 565, Cindy Hall 546, Verelene Morris 543, Melissa Carlson 510, Lyn Passini 494, Frayne Born 478, Janice Williams 473, Jeanne Schrenk 467, Debbie Swain 466, Paula Brunner 452.
Sunday Neighbors Nov. 17 Jim Salzman 681 (237-247), Paul Hughes 588 (227-215), Mitch Smith 561
Nov. 5 Melissa Carlson 527, Patti Larson 521, Bonnie Coy 514, Verelene Morris 507, Mary Moody 506, Janie Lange 487, Theresa Meisel 484, Rosemary Lange 479, Cathy Matts 475, JeanneSchrenk 474, Lyn Passini 462, Debbie Swain 462, Nancy Hellenbrand 452.
end of the first quarter. The Purple Knights led, 32-27, at halftime before Middleton trimmed that deficit to 4340 heading to the fourth quarter. But the Cardinals never could get over the hump. Middleton trailed by three points late in the contest, when Rongstad was whistled for a technical foul and the Purple Knights gained some breathing room. Middleton finished the game shooting just 32% from the field and 15.8% from three-point range (3-of-19). Obviously at some point the ball has to go in at a higher clip or were in trouble no matter who we are playing, Bavery said. Most of those threes were pretty open looks, though we did force a couple. But we are definitely into putting the ball on the floor
n BOYS BB
PAGE 19
in the half court when its not in the natural flow and thats hurting our rhythm right now. Middleton also had just nine assists compared to 16 for the Purple Knights. We should be a passing team in the half court, Bavery said. When we did put it on the floor and got into the lane we didnt always make the best decision. A lot of times the kick was open but we forced the action. The good news is we started gelling offensively after winter break last season, and the nuances and timing does take time. We thought wed be further ahead early on, but well get there. On deck: Middleton is at Janesville Parker Thursday, then hosts Madison East Saturday at 7:30 p.m. The Cardinals are then at DeForest next Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., and travel to Madison West Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m. The other good news is we have four games between this week and next, Bavery said. So no time to dwell on a tough loss, only to move forward.
Dec. 6 Beloit Memorial 64, Middleton 53 Beloit Memorial 18 14 11 21 64 Middleton .. 13 14 13 13 53 BELOIT MEMORIAL Barnes 7, Cabrera 14, Fair 15, Farr 12, Hudson 2, McAtee 1, Neal 13. Totals 22 17-25 64. MIDDLETON Gardner 2, Herl 1, Hill 7, Little 1, Oelerich 13, Revord 2, Rogeberg 4, Rongstad 11, Schafer 12. 18 14-17 53. Three-point goals BM 3 (Fair 2, Farr); M 3 (Oelerich, Rongstad, Schafer). Total fouls M 23, BM 13. Fouled out Little.
Demond Hill (0) and Middletons boys basketball team are hoping to bounce back this week.
PAGE 20
20-20-20 (Ages 15+) Gain total body strength with 20 minutes of each upper body and lower body strength training and 20 minutes of an athletic fusion of Pilates and Yoga. Day Code Register By Dates Time Location Northside M & Th 2014.222 12/27 1/6-2/24 5:45-6:45pm
M IDDLETON R ECREATION D EPARTMENT P ROGRAMS

Tae Kwon Do (Ages 5-17) This is an introductory class to the Korean Martial Art of Tae Kwon Do. Students will learn basic kicking and punching combinations, as well as increase strength and flexibility. Tae Kwon Do promotes self-esteem and confidence, along with improvement of focus and concentration. All classes are taught by Master Miles Varichak, 4th Dan Master Instructor with the World Tae Kwon Do Federation. Belt testing will be held 3 times per year, which is an additional fee. Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Hubbard Art Center Sat 2014.208 12/27 1/4- 2/24 9:30-10:30am Zumba (Ages 15+) Zumba exercises include music with fast and slow rhythms, as well as resistance training. The music comes from the following dance styles: cumbia, salsa, merengue, mambo, flamenco, chachacha, reggaeton, soca, samba, belly dancing, bhangra, hip hop music, ax music and tango. Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Northside Th 2014.224 1/3 1/9- 2/27 4:30-5:30pm Jazz (Ages 7-12) Jazz is sharp and fluid movements to create a visually technical dance and style. It is usually done to popular music. Body isolations, stretch, turning, leaping and technical steps are taught in this class. Jazz shoes are recommended, but ballet slippers may be worn. Day Code Register By Dates Time Location Sat 2014.225 12/27 1/4- 2/22 2:00-2:45pm Hubbard Art Center Ballet (Ages 4-6) Children, ages, 4-6, will learn the basics of classical ballet techniques. Ballet slippers required. Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Hubbard Art Center Sat 2014.226 12/27 1/4- 2/22 1:00-1:45pm Mechanical Engineering- Master Mechanics (Ages 7-14) During the Mechanical Engineering classes, students use the Engineering Design Process to design, create, test, and refine a variety of machines and mechanical systems. Students learn basics of fluid mechanics, simple machines, and other design and engineering concepts while constructing roller coasters, egg-drop vehicles, and an incredibly fast air powered dragster they keep at the end of the course. Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Hubbard Art Center Thurs 2014.212 1/3 1/9- 1/30 5:15-6:45pm Junior Mechanical Engineering: Toys (Ages 4-6) The Junior Mechanical Engineering- Toys classes introduce our youngest engineers to fundamental concepts of energy, materials, and movement. Students explore and construct six different toys throughout this unit, including spinners, magical boomerang cans, wind-up whirligigs, and more. Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Hubbard Art Center Thurs 2014.213 1/3 1/9- 1/30 4:00-4:45pm Pottery Class (Grades 1-9) This 6 week class combines the Potters wheel and Hand Building to create a variety of fun pieces. You will experience basic throwing techniques using the Potters wheel, from centering the wet clay to trimming and finishing your pieces with food safe glazes. You will also experiment with hand building methods such as coils, slabs and extruded clay to create unique clay forms. Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Twin Valley Clay Tues 2014.211 1/3 1/14- 2/18 3:30-4:30pm Family Music-Makers (Ages 11 months- 4 years) Its family music time, as children of mixed ages come together with parents or care givers for an opportunity to experience songs, chants, movement activities, and to play in weekly jam sessions. Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Hubbard Art Center Mon 2014.219 12/30 1/6- 2/24 6:15-7:00pm Pre-School Music Makers (Ages 3-4) Have fun exploring musical fun without a parent or caregiver. This class will incorporate songs and chants with dance, musical games and creative dramatics. Sing a story or act out a favorite song. Instrumental jam sessions will allow the class to conduct, and create their own musical masterpiece. Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Hubbard Art Center Tues 2014.220 12/30 1/7- 2/25 11:15am-12:00pm Toddler Music Makers (Ages 8 months- 2 years) Treat your child to the joys of music making. This class is geared toward meeting other new parents or caregivers. Watch your infant keep the beat to a variety of rhythms and musical selections, using simple instruments and props. Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Hubbard Art Center Tues 2014.220 12/30 1/7- 2/25 10:15-11:00am Greeting Card Printmaking (Ages 10-17) Design and print your own holiday cards with just the right art work and greeting on them that expresses yourself in a unique way. You will be given a supply list on the first night and receive an overview of how to design and print. Supply cost NOT included in registration fee Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Hubbard Art Center Tu 2014.232 12/30 1/7- 1/28 6:30-9:00pm Greeting Card Printmaking (Ages 18+) Design and print your own holiday cards with just the right art work and greeting on them that expresses yourself in a unique way. You will be given a supply list on the first night and receive an overview of how to design and print. The second night, and from there on, you will be working on your project. Supply cost NOT included in registration fee Location Day Code Register By Dates Time Hubbard Art Center Fri 2014.233 12/30 1/10- 1/31 1:00-3:30pm
Middletons mill rate is low, added ald. JoAnna Richard (Dist. 3). Middleton is a great community and provides great services at a lower rate. Following the discussion, council members voted (7-1) to approve 201354 levying 2013/2014 (tax year/collec-
BUDGET
PAGE 21
ence, Language Arts, Writing, and Social Studies. But critics say WKCE doesnt provide feedback to educators in a timely manner and may not adequately assess critical-thinking skills. Middleton High Schools most recent WKCE results ranked number one in Dane County in Math and Reading. Additionally, the schools ACT score is fourth in the state and Middleton High School has seen a 25 percent increase in advanced placement (AP) exam participation from last year. However, the achievement gap is still wide, and this has compelled school administrators to look for ways to take on this issue, which is endemic in public schools across the country. The Reading achievement gap at MHS is 43 percent among blacks and 28 percent among Hispanics. The Math gap is 56 percent for blacks and 20 percent for Hispanics. To put this in context, Asian students, who ranked highest, are 73 percent proficient in Reading and 90 percent in Math, while black students are 17 percent and 21 percent, respectively. MHS principal Denise Herrmann said she hopes STAR Math and Reading tests, which are now being used to assess underachieving students, help provide quick, usable feedback for educators. Starting in the fall of 2014, another new test, the ACT Aspire, which Herrmann said attempts to determine critical-thinking skills, will be given to all students annually. The challenges are different for each child, Herrmann explained. If
GAP
tion year) property taxes and adopt 2014 budgets in the general fund and in the special revenue, debt service, capital and enterprise fund groups for the City of Middleton. Ald. Gurdip Brar (Dist. 2) opposed. Despite council members confi-
dence in the need for higher taxes at this juncture, some Middleton citizens remain dissatisfied not only with the result of the budget deliberations, but the decision-making process itself. George Wennerlyn, in an open letter to
city leaders that appears in this weeks opinion page, expressed annoyance about the level of public engagement involved in these important conversations. There was little value in providing
a taxpayers viewpoint regarding the budget at that [Dec. 3] hearing, Wennerlyn stated. In advance of the hearing, the vast majority of council members had already made up their minds on passage of the budget. continued from page 1
we have 25 students who are behind in Math, they can all be behind in something different. She claimed this is a place where new technologies are helping to target the differences among students. What our new programs are doing are assessing kids where they are and then giving us a really nice printout ... it will say what they can do well and where they are behind, she stated. The STAR tests, for example, are online and only takes about 30 minutes to complete. We typically would only have access to that data once in high school; once every four years, Herrmann pointed out. The test results generate support materials based on each students individual knowledge and understanding of a subject. When that student sees a tutor, they work on problem sets and work sheets tailored to the students specific needs. Many of the educational companies are understanding how, especially at the high school level, we need more timely and accurate information on how students are learning and what
their gaps are. Herrmann said. She added that this also improves student confidence as they receive frequent feedback. They see their scores improving, they will see their gaps being filled, so their confidence will improve, and thus, their performance in their regular class will improve. The achievement gap among races in the United States has come to light as a result of standardized testing. More testing data can certainly put a finer point on a students knowledge and skills, but some critics say the emphasis on standardized testing overlooks other major aspects of a given students abilities. Some of the things that are really important to us, it is very difficult to measure on a standardized test, Herrmann said. She admitted the testing does have some weaknesses. For example, the ability to problem-solve and think critically, that is hugely important to us, she explained. Herrmann said the new generation of tests rely less on multiple choice, in an attempt to understand not just what students know, but how they know it. New tests are trying to access those
higher level orders of thinking, she said. Next year will likely be the last for multiple-choice exclusive tests, the principal said. Rather then just being multiple choice, they will be what they call open response multiple-choice, she said. In theory, this will lend subjectivity to a students response and give a more accurate depiction of their abilities. The new tests will also include problems where students have to manipulate what is on the screen, Herrmann
explained. They are trying to use technology to help us get closer to measuring authentic learning, not just recall, she said. As new technologies give schools the power better understand testing data, it will remain up to faculty how to interpret and react to it. As Herrmann put it, Technology wont ever replace a teacher, but if it helps (teachers) to focus their energy, we are all about that.
PAGE 22
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City Budget Approved: Swan Lake

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City budget approved

General fund is set at $23,334,253

Times-Tribune photo by Jeff Martin

Schools work to close achievement gap

Marijuana could be on spring ballot. Page 5

Soprano Emily Birsan returns to PAC . Page 6

Hockey Cards start Big 8 play strong. Page 15

Dining Guide . . . . . . . . 6-7 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Classieds . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Inside this issue:

Gobblers work to feed the hungry

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Westport balks at changes to fire agreement

Monday, November 25 12:16 p.m. Theft, 7400 block of Century Ave.

See POLICE, page 5

Supervisors approve annual budget

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Board looks at confined animal rules

Local voters could weigh in on marijuana

continued from page 4

Monday, December 9 12:07 a.m. Burglary, 3400 block o Marino Ct.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Pageant at Community Church

Winter Concerts going on now

Fine chocolate, sold for a good cause

F OOD AND D RINK

Times-Tribune photo by Katherine Perreth

O BITUARY Wendy C. Harris

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

by DIANNE HESSELBEIN AND MELISSA SARGENT, STATE REPS.

GOP-created crisis shows need for redistricting reform

Thank you for support of Restoring Hope

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

WISTAX report: school taxes increase

Cops warn of theft from mailboxes

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Car hits man in heavy fog

Times-Tribune photo by Matt Geiger

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

everything wonderful holiday season! to have a you need

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Girls basketball team rolls past Beloit, Parker

Follow Rob Reischel on Twitter at @robreischel

Times-Tribune photo by Mary Langenfeld

Boys basketball team falls to Beloit Memorial

Times-Tribune photo by Mary Langenfeld

Middleton 2-0 in conference

Hockey Cards start Big 8 play strong

Times-Tribune photo by Mary Langenfeld

Middletons girls gymnastics team set to take flight

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

MHS GIRLS GYMNASTICS ROSTER

MHS swimmers start off strong

Times-Tribune photo by Mary Langenfeld

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Wrestlers 2nd at Reedsburg

News Publishing Co. photo by Jeff Seering

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

continued from page 19

Times-Tribune photo by Mary Langenfeld

M IDDLETON R ECREATION D EPARTMENT P ROGRAMS