During a recent government meeting, two individuals, Mister Reeder and Mister Bessel, presented their applications for pardons, sharing personal stories of redemption and community involvement.

Mister Reeder, who served 11 months of a three-year sentence for a felony, detailed his journey from incarceration to reintegration into society. After his release, he secured a job in the carpenter's union and became actively involved in community improvement projects, including cleaning up local neighborhoods. However, a diagnosis of degenerative disc disease hindered his ability to work, leading to a struggle with depression. Reeder expressed a deep desire for a pardon, emphasizing the impact of his felony on his ability to support his family and engage with his grandchildren, particularly in coaching their sports teams. He noted that the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office supports his application, which he described as a blessing.

Mister Bessel, who sought a pardon for drug-related offenses from his youth, reflected on the poor decisions he made due to a lack of guidance and support. Now a master barber and community leader, he has dedicated himself to giving back, providing free haircuts to the homeless and mentoring youth to prevent them from making similar mistakes. Bessel highlighted his achievements, including officiating at NCAA women's games, and expressed hope that a pardon would allow him to advance his career without the stigma of his past. He also acknowledged the support from the District Attorney's Office, which he said gives him hope for a second chance.

Both applicants underscored the importance of community support and the transformative power of second chances, as they await the governor's decision on their pardon requests.