July 2003

Dear Readers:

We have arrived at a new and exciting chapter in the history of our state. This is a time of unprecedented challenges -but also of unparalleled opportunity. Wisconsin is a great state with strong traditions and proud people, and we have a chance to make it an even better place to live, work, visit and raise a family.

Every two years, our state publishes this Blue Book - a guide to our government, our people, and our history. This book is an invaluable resource for citizens who wish to be well informed and actively engaged in the democratic process.

Appropriately, the 2003-2004 Blue Book features a detailed profile of the population of Wisconsin, as described in the 2000 census. The article entitled "Wisconsin's People: A Portrait of Wisconsin's Population on the Threshold of the 21S' Century" not only provides an analysis of the present population of Wisconsin, but also a look at how the population has changed, as the times and nation have changed along with it.

No matter what else changes, however, there are a few things that never change about the people of Wisconsin - our strong values, our commitment to helping each other, and our never-ending commitment to the state we all share. These qualities can't be measured with mere statistics, but are on display every day in communities across our state. I have been continually amazed by the people I meet wherever I go in our state, and I am honored and proud to be your Governor.

This book is the story of Wisconsin, its institutions, and its people. I hope that you will use it and enjoy it.

Sincerely,

Jim Doyle
Governor

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