A Joint Initiative Between     Heart of Wisconsin     Business & Economic Alliance and     Community Foundation of Greater     South Wood County

Home About Us B2B Club Breaking News Contact Donate Events / Programs Feedback Ideas Incubator Industry Clusters Links / Resources Progess Funds Progress Teams Public Art / Murals Publications		Breaking News September 1, 2008 - Get Involved in the Eco-Municipality Movement for the Daily Tribune Throughout the United States, cities are taking steps to improve their environmental performance while improving their economic performance at the same time. The American Planning Association reports that some municipalities have reduced fossil fuel use by 40% or more in five years. Madison, Wisconsin has used the Natural Step framework to enact many projects that benefit the city’s bottom line and the environment. One of these projects named, “the Big Green Snake,” uses waste vegetable grease to fuel the sewer vacuum truck. Other projects have included incentives for carpooling and purchasing of recycled paper. Current Wisconsin eco-municipalities – including Marshfield, Ashland and Stevens Point – are demonstrating that the model can work in almost any community regardless of size, geography, or circumstances. Citizens of Wisconsin Rapids and the surrounding communities are invited to attend an organizational meeting of the Natural Step for Communities, Study Circles at the McMillan Memorial Library McCourt conference room on Thursday, September 11, from 7 - 8 p.m. These study circles are an extension of our discussion on how to promote sustainability in our area and achieve economic, ecological and social goals, using different and innovative ways. The study circles are scheduled to meet once a week, for approximately one hour, beginning the week of October 1 and concluding the week of November 20, 2008. Participants will discuss questions designed to deepen their understanding of sustainability and applications in their community. Attendance is not mandatory at all sessions and make-up sessions are available. The study circles are made possible through the Community Progress Initiative and the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin Rapids Area. There are many ways to become engaged in Creating a Clean Green & Welcoming Community, we are looking for volunteers with an interest in recycling programs, renewable energy, sustainable business practices and other areas that will make Inner Wisconsin a place that meets the needs of our current generation without compromising the future for generations. To get involved, join us on September 3 at 4 p.m. at Hotel Mead; or contact Carol Davis at 715.423.3863, or Melissa Loken at 715.423.1830.
		Copyright © 2005, Community Progress Initiative, South Wood County & Town of Rome