Lynn Binnie
#flashbackfriday with the Historical Society – Skindingsrude Furniture
It’s time once again for #flashbackfriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. Here is the 2nd of our series of change in Whitewater businesses taken by George Scharfenberg in the 1990s and early 2000s. This photo is from 1994, when the Skindingsrude Furniture Store went out of business.
The Skindingsrude furniture and funeral business began on Main Street in 1926 and eventually the funeral business was relocated to a home that once stood next to the First English Lutheran Church on West Main Street. Later, the furniture store moved to this location on Whitewater Street, now the location of Second Salem Brewing Company. It was very common in the 19th and early 20th centuries for furniture stores and funeral services to be part of the same business.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
Photo from the George Scharfenberg photo collection, Whitewater Historical Society.
This Week’s Yard Sale
Yard Sale
Saturday August 12
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
903 W Conger St, Whitewater.
Boys clothes (mostly 10/12.)
Womens clothes (larger Sizes)
Misc household
Lots of games/books
Small child’s bike with training wheels
Ping pong table
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.
Navy Sailor from Delavan Arrested for Alleged Espionage
By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
A 2019 graduate from Delavan-Darien High School, Jinchao “Patrick” Wei, 22, is accused of receiving thousands of dollars from a Chinese intelligence officer in exchange for providing sensitive military information to the People’s Republic of China (PRC). According to the Pentagon, Wei, a Navy sailor, sold the Chinese secrets about war exercises, naval operations, and other critical technical information. Wei, who was born in China, was in the process of applying for U.S. citizenship when first approached by the officer. Now a citizen, Wei is being held without bond. If convicted he could face as much as life in prison.
In court in San Diego on August 3, prosecuting attorney John Parmley said Wei’s only U.S. relative is his mother, who lives in Wisconsin. Parmley alleged that she knew what he was doing and told him to continue, adding that when he was done with the U.S. Navy he could go work for China, ABC News reports.
According to the Times of San Diego, “Wei pled not guilty on August 3 to espionage-related charges. U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman said…that per the indictment, Wei was approached by a Chinese intelligence officer while his application to become a U.S. citizen was pending.
“Wei admitted to his handler that he knew this activity would be viewed as spying and could affect his pending citizenship application,” Grossman said. “Whether it was greed or for some other reason, Wei allegedly chose to turn his back on his newly adopted country and enter a conspiracy with his Chinese handler.”
According to Voice of America, quoting ABC News, Wei was denied bail on August 8 at his pretrial detention hearing as the judge ruled him a flight risk and a danger to the community. He is next due in court on August 21.
The following is posted to the Office of Public Affairs, U.S. Department of Justice website. (The second servicemember is from California.)
In two separate cases in the Southern and Central Districts of California, two U.S. Navy servicemembers were arrested for transmitting sensitive military information to the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
“These individuals stand accused of violating the commitments they made to protect the United States and betraying the public trust, to the benefit of the PRC government,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The Department of Justice will continue to use every tool in our arsenal to counter threats from China and to deter those who aid them in breaking our laws and threatening our national security.”
“These arrests are a reminder of the relentless, aggressive efforts of the People’s Republic of China to undermine our democracy and threaten those who defend it,” said Assistant Director Suzanne Turner of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “The PRC compromised enlisted personnel to secure sensitive military information that could seriously jeopardize U.S. national security. The FBI and our partners remain vigilant in our determination to combat espionage, and encourage past and present government officials to report any suspicious interactions with suspected foreign intelligence officers.”
United States v. Jinchao Wei, Southern District of California
A U.S. Navy sailor, Jinchao Wei, aka Patrick Wei, was arrested yesterday on espionage charges as he arrived for work at Naval Base San Diego, the homeport of the Pacific Fleet. He was indicted for conspiracy to send national defense information to an intelligence officer working for the People’s Republic of China.
The indictment, unsealed this morning, alleges that Wei, was an active-duty sailor on the amphibious assault ship the U.S.S. Essex stationed at Naval Base San Diego. In his role as a machinist’s mate, Wei held a U.S. security clearance and had access to sensitive national defense information about the ship’s weapons, propulsion and desalination systems. Amphibious assault ships like the Essex resemble small aircraft carriers and allow the U.S. military to project power and maintain presence by serving as the cornerstone of the U.S. Navy’s amphibious readiness and expeditionary strike capabilities.
According to the indictment, in February 2022, Wei began communicating with an intelligence officer from the PRC who requested that Wei provide information about the U.S.S. Essex and other Navy ships. Specifically, the Chinese intelligence officer tasked Wei with passing him photos, videos and documents concerning U.S. Navy ships and their systems. The two agreed to hide their communications by deleting records of their conversations and using encrypted methods of communication.
At the request of the intelligence officer, between March 2022 and the present, Wei sent photographs and videos of the Essex, disclosed the locations of various Navy ships and described defensive weapons of the Essex. In exchange for this information, the intelligence officer paid Wei thousands of dollars over the course of the conspiracy.
The indictment further alleges that in June 2022, Wei sent the intelligence officer approximately 30 technical and mechanical manuals. These manuals contained export control warnings and detailed the operations of multiple systems aboard the Essex and similar ships, including power, steering, aircraft and deck elevators, as well as damage and casualty controls. The intelligence officer confirmed with Wei that at least 10 of those manuals were useful to him. For passage of those materials, the indictment alleges that Wei was paid $5,000.
In June 2022, the intelligence officer requested that Wei provide information about the number and training of U.S. Marines during an upcoming international maritime warfare exercise. In response to this request, Wei sent multiple photographs of military equipment to the intelligence officer.
In August 2022, Wei sent an additional 26 technical and mechanical manuals related to the power structure and operation of the Essex and similar ships. The manuals contained warnings that this was technical data subject to export controls and that it was deemed “critical technology” by the U.S. Navy.
The indictment further alleges that in October 2022, Wei sent a technical manual to the intelligence officer describing the layout and location of certain departments, including berthing quarters and weapons systems. Specifically, Wei sent a weapons control systems manual for the Essex and similar ships. This manual contained export-controlled data that could not be exported without a license from the U.S. government. The indictment alleges that Wei knowingly violated the International Traffic in Arms Regulations by transmitting this manual to the Chinese intelligence officer without obtaining a required license.
The intelligence officer continued to request information in 2023, including information about the overhaul and upgrades to the Essex. Specifically, he requested blueprints, especially those related to modifications to the flight deck. Wei provided information related to the repairs the Essex was undergoing, as well as other mechanical problems with similar vessels.
During the alleged conspiracy, the intelligence officer instructed Wei to gather U.S. military information that was not public and admonished him not to discuss their relationship and to destroy any evidence regarding the nature of their relationship and their activities.
“We have entrusted members of our military with tremendous responsibility and great faith,” said U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman for the Southern District of California. “Our nation’s safety and security are in their hands. When a soldier or sailor chooses cash over country, and hands over national defense information in an ultimate act of betrayal, the United States will aggressively investigate and prosecute.”
The FBI and Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) investigated the case.
Visitors Local & Far Come to See Dawn Hunter at Her Reception
Editor’s note: The following press release was received from the Whitewater Arts Alliance.
An update to the Art of Exploration reception: On August 5, 2023, over 60 visitors attended the reception to both meet Dawn Hunter, artist, and purchase her work. Hunter gave a brief speech around 1:45 p.m. talking about her artistic process and background. She is a retired elementary educator which led to her delving into acrylic, collage, and assemblage-working manipulation of a variety of materials since 2002. During this reception, Hunter sold over 15 of her pieces.
The show will continue to viewable in-person and online until August 27. The Cultural Arts Center (CAC) – located at 402 West Main Street, Whitewater, WI – is open Thursdays through Sundays, 12:00 p.m. (noon) to 4:00 p.m. The show is free to attend.
Hunter will be giving a free workshop for the public to attend on August 17 from 12:00 (noon) to 3:00 p.m. at the CAC. At this workshop, attendees will be making art greeting cards that they can give to their friends and family. All supplies will be provided, and no registration required.
To learn more about Dawn Hunter, the workshop, and the exhibition itself, go to the WAA website: https://www.whitewaterarts.org/dawn-hunter-exhibition-2023.
50-Member Palmyra-Eagle Band Concert in the Park
Who’s ready to welcome back one of our favorite Concert In The Park Events THIS Thursday…???
We are very excited to welcome back the Palmyra-Eagle Community Band this Thursday at 7 p.m. The band will be bringing 50 members for a fantastic evening of wonderful music. This is a Thursday you won’t want to miss!
Thank you to our sponsor, Whitewater @TDS
Obituary: John R. Faytus, 30
John R. Faytus, 30, of Whitewater passed away on Friday, August 4, 2023 unexpectedly.
John was born on July 6, 1993 in Fort Atkinson to Lenny and Stacie Faytus. During high school, John was active in the wrestling club and in Richmond 4-H. In 4-H, John was very competitive in the shooting sports and shot in the Junior Olympic PPP match in Kentucky. He graduated from Whitewater High School in 2011. John was a member of Laborer’s Union 464 in Madison for several years. He was employed with JP Cullen, Klobucar Construction, and several other union contractors. John currently ran his own contracting business that he was very proud of. John was married in 2019.
He loved to fish, work on vehicles, going out on his boat, completing yard work, and loved his children. John also loved carpentry and working with his hands. He loved solving problems and always gave a helping hand for anybody. He was very proud of his ancestry and karate.
John will be deeply missed by his parents, Lenny and Stacie Faytus; children, Kylie, Bentley; siblings, Lewis, Christine Faytus; grandparents, Mary Werdin, Pete and Ruriko Faytus; nieces, Brynn, Amara; nephew, Arthur; special friends, Uniqua and Mason; many cousins and friends.
He is preceded in death by his grandfather, Howard Werdin; uncle, John Nora; and cousin, Jasmine Saxby.
A service will take place at 11 a.m. on Sunday, August 13, 2023 at John’s grandmother’s house, W8183 Elkhorn Rd., Whitewater, WI. A celebration of life will take place after the service at 11:30 a.m. Luncheon will follow the celebration of life. Parking can be accessed through Old Highway P.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family to assist with funeral arrangements.
Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com
Powerful Tools for Caregivers Virtual Series
Limited Spots Available
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Education Series
Offered by Rock & Jefferson Counties
Feeling Stretched as a Caregiver?
The Aging and Disability Resource Centers of Rock and Jefferson Counties are pleased to offer Powerful Tools for Caregivers, an educational series designed to provide family caregivers of someone with dementia the tools needed to take care of themselves. The class will run for 6 weeks beginning on Thursday, September 21, 2023 from 5:30-7 p.m. This series will be offered virtually.
The Powerful Tools for Caregivers program helps family caregivers reduce stress, improve self-confidence, improve communication, balance their lives, increase their ability to make tough decisions and locate helpful resources. Interactive lessons, discussions and brainstorming help caregivers to choose tools and put them into action.
Registration is required. Class space is limited. For more information or to register, contact Tonya Runyard at the ADRC of Jefferson county 920/675-4035 or tonyar@jeffersoncountywi.gov or Karen Tennyson at 608-741-3615 or karen.tennyson@co.rock.wi.us.
Powerful Tools for Caregivers is owned and managed by Iowa State University of Science and Technology.
Editor’s note: The Banner has been told that Walworth County residents may be accommodated if space is available. Readers not living in Jefferson or Rock County should call a number shown above to inquire about this possibility.
Obituary: Arlen Gilbert (Arlo) Butt, 72
Arlen Gilbert (Arlo) Butt passed away peacefully on August 6, 2023, surrounded by his family. Arlo was born on June 20, 1951, in Elkhorn, WI, to the late Orville and Jessie Butt. He was a man of great patience, kindness, and humility. Arlo’s gentle nature and unwavering positivity made him deeply loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Arlo is survived by his beloved wife, Dianne Butt, who stood by his side throughout their 40-year journey of love, friendship, dancing and many mischievous escapades. He is also survived by his two children, Carmen (Thomas) Thornton, and Chester (Jennie) Larson. Arlo was a loving and devoted dad to them, always providing guidance and support. They, along with his three grandchildren, Nolan Larson, Savannah Chesser Thornton and Keyon’Dre Thornton were his pride and joy.
In addition to his immediate family, Arlo is survived by his dearest sister, Elaine (Dan) Kelleher, and their two children, Casey (Ashley) Kelleher and Corey (Bryony) Kelleher who shared many cherished memories, an occasional Arlo (Early) Times, and much laughter throughout their lives.
Arlo was also preceded in death by his baby sister, Carla Jean Butt who died in infancy.
Arlo lived his whole life in Whitewater, Wisconsin. He started his education at Lakeview Elementary and Whitewater Middle School, setting the foundation for his future success. He graduated from Whitewater High School in the class of 1969, carrying with him a strong work ethic.
Arlo proudly served his country as a member of the Army National Guard for six years. His commitment to duty and honor was unwavering, and he served with distinction.
After dedicating 45 years of his life to Trent Tube in East Troy, WI, Arlo retired in 2016. His dedication and hard work contributed to the success of the company, and he was highly respected by his colleagues.
Outside of his professional life, Arlo found joy and relaxation in various hobbies. He was an avid supporter of the Green Bay Packers, always cheering them on with enthusiasm. Arlo also enjoyed engaging in friendly competition through activities such as fishing, euchre, pickleball, bowling, and volleyball. He had many lifelong friends who were always there to support him through the good times and bad.
A private burial service will be held at a later date for immediate family members to honor Arlo’s life. A celebration of life will take place on August 19 from 1-3 p.m. at Staller Winery, W8896 County Road A,
Delavan, WI. This gathering will provide an opportunity for friends and extended family to come together, celebrate him with an Arlo (Early) Times and share stories and memories of Arlo’s remarkable journey.
Arlo will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His gentle spirit, unwavering kindness, and humble nature will forever be remembered and cherished.
May you rest in peace our sweet Buttman. We miss you so much already.
Greater Whitewater Committee Hosting Kim McDarison of WhitewaterWise
The Greater Whitewater Committee (GWC) is set to host Kim McDarison as guest speaker at its upcoming monthly meeting in August. Kim McDarison, who recently created a new online news source for the Whitewater community: WhitewaterWise.com, also is the publisher of Fort Atkinson Online, which continues to cover Whitewater’s neighbor, Fort Atkinson.
The GWC’s upcoming monthly meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, August 10th at 7 a.m. at 841 Brewhouse: 841 E Milwaukee St. Kim will be discussing the future plans for WhitewaterWise and its features. An RSVP is required to attend. To reserve your spot, contact Jeffery Knight at: jpk@knightpublicaffairs.com or 920.728.0662 by Wednesday, August 9th.
WhitewaterWise.com is an online news site covering the city of Whitewater and stories of broader local interest in Walworth, Jefferson, and Rock counties. WhitewaterWise.com is an online property of Fort Atkinson Online LLC, which also publishes FortAtkinsonOnline.com.
“We are very excited about WhitewaterWise’s new venture”, said GWC President Jeffery Knight, “and we can’t wait to hear Kim’s vision on the future of this news outlet.”
About Kim McDarison: Raised in New England and a 1986 graduate of Western Connecticut State University, Kim McDarison wanted to be a journalist from the time she was nine. While in college, she earned a bachelor’s of business administration (BBS) degree, with a concentration in MIS (management information systems), and a minor in journalism. After working in journalism in the Connecticut and St. Louis, Mo., areas, McDarison arrived in Walworth County where she raised her two daughters full-time until they started school, returning to journalism in the early 2000s as the editor of the Whitewater Register. She has since worked as a freelance and staff reporter for such news agencies as the independently published Edgerton Reporter, CSI News (Walworth County Sunday), Southern Lakes Newspapers, Hometown Newspaper Group, with its network of papers surrounding the Madison area, and Adams Publishing Group. Her stories have appeared across the Walworth, Jefferson and Rock county region, in such papers as the Janesville Gazette, Daily Jefferson County Union, Watertown Daily Times, Milton Courier, Cambridge News and Deerfield Independent, DeForest Times-Tribune, and Lake Mills Leader, among others affiliated with each of the broad ranging consortium publishing networks. In February of 2021, McDarison became an independent publisher, launching FortAtkinsonOnline.com. The publication has branched out recently to include the newly launched WhitewaterWise.com.
About the GWC: The GWC is an action-oriented group committed to working with citizens, elected officials, and policy makers to identify, craft, and implement a pro-business agenda. Its goals are to advance the economic, educational, and social policies required to energize and secure the Whitewater area’s economic future, as well as protect Whitewater’s quality of life.