Governor Tony Evers ordered flags to fly at half-staff in Wisconsin on Monday in honor of former state Rep. Betty Jo Nelsen, who died on October 17 at the age of 89.
Nelsen was first elected to the State Assembly as a Republican in 1979 and served six terms. In 1987, she became the first woman to serve as minority leader of either party in the state Legislature.
“Former MP Nelsen was an exceptional example of a dedicated public servant,” Evers said. “In the weeks following her death, our thoughts are with former MP Nelsen’s husband, Jim, her children, grandchildren and all her loved ones. they mourn her loss and celebrate her incredible legacy.”
In 1990, President George HW Bush appointed Nelsen administrator of the US Food and Nutrition Service. Ministry of Agriculture. In 1992, she was nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for Food and Consumer Services.
Later, Nelsen served on the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board. She also held leadership positions in organizations such as Future Milwaukee, United Community Services, United Way, Girl Scouts of the USA and Junior League of Milwaukee.
A memorial service for Nelsen is planned for 11 a.m. Monday at Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Milwaukee.
“Known for her passion for public service and dedication to the well-being of her family, Betty Jo was an unapologetic yet humble leader and pioneer, driven by her care for others and guided by high moral standards not often seen today” , her obituary reads. read.
How long will the flags be at half-mast on Thursday?
The American flag and the Wisconsin state flag will be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Thursday.
Where will the flags be at half mast?
Under Evers’ order, the American flag and the Wisconsin state flag will fly at half-staff at all buildings, grounds and military installations belonging to the state of Wisconsin.
Why do flags fly at half mast?
American flags typically fly at half-staff in the aftermath of national tragedies or after the deaths of government officials, military members or first responders. They also fly at half-staff on Memorial Day and other national observances, including 9/11.
“The flag of the United States is flown at half-mast or half-mast when the nation or state is in mourning,” says USA.gov. “The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia may fly flags at half-mast.”
Evers has ordered flags flown at half-staff in honor of other former state lawmakers who have died, including Fred Kessler and Jonathan Brostoff in November.
Contact Hope Karnopp at HKarnopp@gannett.com or at @hopekarnopp.
This article originally appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why are Wisconsin flags at half-staff Monday?
