Herb Kohl: “To some people, Wisconsin means cheese. To that I say, yes, and we're proud of it. The great state of Wisconsin has a…”

“To some people, Wisconsin means cheese. To that I say, yes, and we're proud of it. The great state of Wisconsin has a dairy industry that has thrived for 150 years despite our country's discriminatory milk pricing policies. To some people, Wisconsin means beer. To that I say, yes, and we're proud of it. Brewing was among the first industries to help propel Wisconsin's economy forward, creating thousands of jobs and incomes that supported many families. They were not amused with Prohibition. But Wisconsin means much more. As we celebrate 150 years of Wisconsin statehood this year we are reminded of the state's rich history, its natural beauty and its determined people. In 1848, as a wave of immigrants flooded into America, many of the brightest among them chose to settle in Wisconsin. The state still displays the influence of its earliest settlers, from Poland, Russia, Ireland, Germany and Scandinavia. Wisconsin continues to draw newcomers because of its strong economy, its first-rate education system and the appealing mix of villages and cities that exist side by side. And we have the Green Bay Packers. Wisconsin's natural beauty is unsurpassed. We are fortunate to have as our borders two Great Lakes and the Mississippi River. Wisconsin is called a `sporting paradise' because of its lakes, rivers and forests. We boast fishing, hunting, skiing and world-class golf. Our national forests are breathtaking.”