Greetings from Dudley Markham!

I'm currently working to get some of our "core group" to formally "sign-up" as members for Dryhootch Menomonie. Many don't have computer access so I'm looking into doing a paper copy sign-up and then entering their info. on the website. I've been meeting with local vet organizations to get the info. out concerning Dryhootch Menomonie. Of course, we are just in the beginning stages but moving along "none-the-less" in the process. We have actually looked at two "store front" properties in the downtown area this week. One property might have some potential to meet our needs but it's too early to get a sense of it right now. I am also meeting with economic and community development officials in early April to brainstorm resource support and allocation possibilities, especially grant sources to support the cause.

I met with the Chancellor from UW Stout this week to inform him of Dryhootch Milwaukee/Menomonie and explore cooperative program ideas that would be mutually beneficial for both parties. I will be meeting with business and community leaders over the next couple of weeks to enlist their financial or morale support, if nothing else. I'm still working with veterans' outreach in terms of trauma and post traumatic stress. Things are busy, especially with the younger vets coming back from deployments at the university and local area. The transition from "war zone" to "reintegration" back home brings many challenges and for some vets, a type of "homefront" war is taking place. All the more reason for continuing efforts for Dryhootch Milwaukee, Waukesha and Menomonie. Hang in there and keep the faith! D.M.