Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #200 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Sun., May 14, 2023, in honor of Hmong-Lao Veterans Day.
“Each year, on Hmong-Lao Veterans Day, we honor and recognize the thousands of Hmong-Lao veterans who courageously fought alongside the United States in the Vietnam War and who call Wisconsin home today,” said Gov. Evers. “The story of Hmong-Lao veterans and their service is integral to the story of Wisconsin, and I am proud to once again lower the flags as we commend them for their service and sacrifice.”
During the Vietnam War, thousands of Hmong-Lao people courageously fought alongside the United States and, following the end of the war, faced harsh retribution from the Vietnamese and Lao governments for their service. Many Hmong-Lao soldiers and their families were ultimately forced to flee their homes, and many later resettled in communities throughout the United States, including in Wisconsin. Today, Wisconsin is home to the third-largest Hmong population in the United States.
On May 14, 2021, Gov. Evers signed 2021 Wisconsin Act 31, designating May 14 as Hmong-Lao Veterans Day in Wisconsin, as May 14, 1975, was the last day of airlift evacuation of remaining Hmong-Lao soldiers and their families from the covert headquarters in Long Tieng, Laos to the Nam Phong refugee camp in Thailand. 2021 Wisconsin Act 31 requires the governor to annually issue a proclamation for the observance of Hmong-Lao Veterans Day that orders the flags at the State Capitol Building to be flown at half-staff, requests that the day be used to recall veterans’ accomplishments and to thank veterans for their service, and encourages schools to discuss Hmong military service in support of the armed forces of the United States.
In addition to signing Executive Order #200, Gov. Evers has proclaimed May 14 as Hmong-Lao Veterans Day in Wisconsin each year since assuming office in 2019. A copy of the governor’s 2023 “Hmong-Lao Veterans Day” proclamation is available here.
On Friday, May 12, 2023, at 3:29 p.m., Whitewater Police received a report of a robbery at the Fort Community Credit Union (FCCU) at 203 E. Milwaukee St. in the City of Whitewater. Officers were immediately dispatched. Through subsequent investigation, officers determined that at approximately 3:11 p.m. a male suspect entered FCCU wearing sunglasses, a black medical mask, a gray zip-up hoodie over a bright yellow shirt with dark lettering beginning with the letter “Y” that was larger than the rest of the lettering on the upper chest, and dark cargo pants. The suspect was carrying a fabric lunch tote and wearing a single glove. The suspect is a white male, approximately six feet tall, with a slender build.
The suspect approached the counter with a note demanding money. No weapon was shown or implied. The suspect was given an undisclosed amount of money and left FCCU at approximately 3:14 p.m. in what is reported to be a dark hatchback vehicle with white stripes, possibly a newer model Mini Cooper.
Whitewater Police are seeking any information that may assist in the investigation. Anyone with information should contact the Whitewater Police Department at 262-473-0555 option #4. Anonymous tips may also be shared using P3Tips.com.
Editor’s note: The above press release was received from the Whitewater Police Department.
The Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated its Annual Dinner & Awards event on Friday, April 28th at the Fern Young Terrace in the Young Auditorium on the University of WI-Whitewater campus. Chamber partners were able to mix and mingle, celebrating another successful year while some amazing individuals and businesses received awards for their impacts on Whitewater. The following deserving recipients were presented with an award.
Good Neighbor Award Winner – Jericca Newby with Revamp Nutrition In photo (Left to Right): Katy Wimer, Lisa Dawsey-Smith, Jericca Newby, Kellie Carper
The Good Neighbor Award is presented to an individual in the community who is an outstanding citizen that represents Whitewater at its very best. The recipients of this annual award make a lasting and positive difference in Whitewater by improving the quality of life and embracing a community-focused spirit. This year’s winner is full of life and a true cheerleader for Whitewater, its residents, and its businesses. She partners with local businesses constantly, offers gift baskets and giveaways frequently that support Whitewater’s business community, organizes drives and other events to support residents in need, engages with the university community regularly, and is always ready to offer up a high five in celebration of the accomplishments of everyone. The Chamber was honored to present this year’s Good Neighbor Award to Jericca Newby of Revamp Nutrition for her undying love of Whitewater and the way she supports the body, mind, and soul of her customers, neighbors, and Whitewater residents.
Service Excellence Award Winner – Dale’s Bootery In photo (Left to Right): Lisa Dawsey-Smith, Bob Herold (owner), Kristina Koslosky, Kellie Carper
The Service Excellence Award is presented to a local business that demonstrates hometown hospitality by delivering excellent customer service and care to their customers and the community. This year’s recipient has been an example of service excellence for decades and the Chamber is thrilled to see them recognized. In the words of their nominator, Kristina Koslosky of Kreative Solutions, Dale’s Bootery is “an old-fashioned sit & fit shoe store, they truly care and want their customers to find comfort and the right fit.” Nominated as a true leader and example for other businesses, the chamber presented this year’s Service Excellence award to Bob and the team at Dale’s Bootery.
Community Spirit Award Winner – Nordskov Coffee In photo (Left to Right): Karin Silvius (GM at Fairfield Inn & Suites), Sheryl Rosa (owner), Ryan Rouse (owner), Kellie Carper
The Community Spirit Award is presented to a business or organization that is a leader in engaging and supporting the Whitewater community. This year’s recipients are always cheering for Whitewater and truly want the community to thrive. These entrepreneurs, who arrived in Whitewater just two years ago, have taken a lead on getting the community together through many collaborative efforts. You will find the owners of this small business attending local events, supporting and encouraging other small businesses, engaging in community conversations, and working hard to make sure that Whitewater is in the spotlight by being true brand ambassadors. Nominated by Karin Silvius of the Fairfield Inn and Suites and Robert Sivek of Lake Home Info for their dedication to the Whitewater community and the work they do to see success grow, the Chamber is excited to present this award to Ryan Rouse and Sheryl Rosa of Nordskov Coffee.
Discover Whitewater Tourism Award Winner – Lake Home Info/ Robert Sivek In photo (Left to Right): Lisa Dawsey-Smith, Sheryl Rosa, Robert Sivek (owner), Kellie Carper
The Discover Whitewater Tourism Award is presented to the business or organization that creates a welcoming and exciting experience for travelers and guests to enjoy during their visits to Whitewater. Recipients of this award are true Whitewater ambassadors and help to spread the word about how wonderful our community is. In the words of their nominator, Sheryl Rosa, this year’s winner couldn’t be a better ambassador. Robert Sivek with Lake Home Info strives to not only encourage new homeowners to enjoy all that Whitewater has to offer, but he and his partners who operate an Airbnb on Whitewater Lake, work to ensure that their guests experience the very best of Whitewater in hopes that they’ll return or maybe even become permanent residents. Nominated for the invaluable contributions to attracting visitors and new residents and championing the Whitewater brand, the Chamber is very happy to award this year’s Discover Whitewater Tourism Award to Robert Sivek and Lake Home Info.
Lifetime Impact Award Winner – La Grange United Methodist Church In photo (Left to Right) – Pat Bromley, Steve Taylor, Chelli Taylor, Kellie Carper
The Lifetime Impact Award is presented to an organization that has been part of the community for over 20 years and positively impacts the community’s development and growth. As an active member of the Whitewater Area Regional Ministries (W.A.R.M.) program, this year’s winner is a wonderful example of how to make a big impact in many little ways. In the words of one of their dedicated members, “when we find out about a need we find a way to help and our congregation rallies to meet the need.” Through multiple small programs the members of the La Grange Methodist Church impact the lives of many current and newly arrived residents to the Whitewater community. Their most recent endeavor, supporting newly arrived community members from Central America, is a great example of the work they do. Nominated by Sandra Ramirez for their dedication to supporting the community and truly living their mission, the Chamber is thrilled to present this year’s Lifetime Impact Award to the La Grange United Methodist Church.
The Whitewater Area Chamber is so grateful to be part of such a caring, generous, and vibrant community. We are looking forward to what 2023 has in store for Whitewater. For more information about this event or anything Chamber related please contact Kellie Carper, Exec. Director at (262) 473-4005.
Over 60,000 American fighter pilots flew combat in World War I, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Of that number, only 1,440 pilots scored five aerial victories, therein becoming “aces.” Forty of those fighter aces were born in Wisconsin, and one — Thomas J. Rennemo — was from Whitewater!
The public is invited to the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library on Tuesday, May 16 at 6:30 p.m. for a presentation about the aerial exploits of these hometown heroes by Badger Aces author Mike O’Connor. Copies of the book will be available for sale.
There is no cost or registration to attend. Contact the library at 262-458-2782 with questions.
After the completion of a national search, Chancellor Corey King is pleased to announce the selection of Katie Kuznacic as the vice chancellor for university relations and president of the UW-Whitewater Foundation. Kuznacic has worked at UW-Whitewater since 2010 in philanthropy and alumni engagement, most recently serving as the interim vice chancellor for university relations since October 2021.
“I am excited about Katie’s leadership for our university relations and foundation spaces,” said King. “She exudes a love and passion for the university. Her experience will serve as a strong framework for us as we launch a strategic plan focused on student success and advancing the university’s regional impact.”
An alumna of UW-Whitewater, Kuznacic worked in the Wisconsin state legislature and marketing management before joining the university in 2010 as a director of development. In 2020, she was elevated to the position of executive director of philanthropy and alumni engagement, leading the university’s efforts in major gifts, annual giving, and alumni relations.
“Katie is a dedicated, trusted and accomplished leader,” said Sandy Dunst, interim president and vice chair of the UW-Whitewater Foundation. “Katie is driven by seeing the power of transforming student lives through our collaborative work with alumni and university partners. The Foundation Board offers its full support to Katie as vice chancellor and president of the foundation in service to UW-Whitewater, her alma mater.”
Chancellor King would like to thank everyone who provided feedback during the interview process as well as the members of the search and screen committee for their work. John Chenoweth, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, chaired the 11-person search committee. King also extends his appreciation to Dunst for outstanding leadership as interim president of the UW-Whitewater Foundation.
Editor’s note: The above announcement was published at UW-W on May 10. The bio shown below is from the UW-W website.
It didn’t take Katie Kuznacic long to fall for the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater campus. When she was a high school student, she toured the university, met with a professor and immediately envisioned her future.
“I could see this was a place where I wouldn’t just be a number, or another student,” she said. “This was a place where I wanted to be.” Kuznacic, who grew up in Baldwin, a small town in St. Croix County, cherishes her time as a Warhawk. She obtained a speech and public relations degree and today she enjoys using her skills to help people who also have a strong connection with campus. “A really special part of this job is developing relationships with people who have that shared UW-Whitewater experience,” she said. “Whether they went to school here, taught here or have a friend or a family member who has a connection here, I think it’s just really special to be part of that, and to help these people achieve their philanthropic goals.”
Kuznacic loves hearing stories about campus from alumni. “Whether it’s someone who was here in the 1960s or someone who just graduated, there’s this common thread, of UW-Whitewater being this very special small-town university where people have close relationships with their professors and have these fond memories that I don’t think every university can replicate,” she said. “It’s special to me because I feel like I have those same memories too.” Kuznacic lives in Janesville with her husband Eric.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
We celebrate Mother’s Day this Sunday with a four-generation image from c.1900 featuring three mothers and a future mother.
The baby is Aileen Laidlaw sitting on the lap of her mother Carolyn Knox Laidlaw. In the back is grandmother Ella Potter Knox and to the right is great-grandmother Caroline Potter. Four living generations are more common today, but were rare around 1900 when life expectancies were lower.
We hope all mothers have a wonderful day on Sunday!
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
Effective May 4, 2023, the City of Whitewater now allows the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs) on all City streets in Jefferson and Walworth County (View ATV/UTV Map).
On March 7, 2023, the City of Whitewater Common Council passed an ordinance allowing the use of ATV/UTVs on all City streets (View ordinance). The Department of Public Works installed signs on the streets leading into the city announcing that all City of Whitewater Streets are ATV/UTV routes unless posted. No ATV’s Allowed signs are posted on streets where prohibited. For example, the use of ATV/UTV vehicles are not allowed on non-City streets around the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater.
Brad Marquardt, the department of public works director, explains, “We want to make sure drivers understand where they can drive ATV/UTVs. The streets marked for No ATV Use are owned and maintained by the University, so the City ordinance does not pertain to them.”
All ATV/UTV riders are required to follow city regulations as well as the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources laws for ATV/UTVs (view DNR ATV Regulations). The ATV/UTV ordinance will be enforced by the City of Whitewater Police Department and all law enforcement.
The City of Whitewater & State of Wisconsin regulations include the following: ATVs/UTVs shall be operated on the paved surface on the extreme right side of the roadway. ATVs/UTVs may be operated on paved surfaces only, unless yielding the right of way. ATVs/UTVs operators are required to have applicable liability insurance. ATVs/UTVs shall not be operated at a speed greater than the posted speed limits. ATVs/UTVs may not be operated on any city street without fully functional headlights, taillights and brake lights. ATVs/UTVs may not be operated on any city street between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. No person may operate an ATV/UTV on any city street without a valid driver’s license and shall display the license on demand from any law enforcement officer or official described in section 23.33 (12) Wis. Stats. The operation of an ATV/UTV shall be limited to traveling on a direct route from the initial starting point to a specific destination in the City. Operating ATV/UTV vehicles on City streets for other purposes is prohibited. ATVs/UTVs operators shall slow to a speed of 10 mph or less and yield the right-of-way when traveling within 100 feet of a person who is not on an ATV/UTV vehicle, a snowmobile, or a motorcycle. ATV/UTVs owners may not authorize any person to operate an ATV/UTV if the person is prohibited from operating an ATV/UTV vehicle under s.23.33(5) Stats, incapable of operating the vehicle because of a physical or mental disability, or under the influence of fermented malt beverages, intoxicating liquor or controlled substances. All ATV/UTV operators and passengers under the age of 18 are required to wear a minimum DOT standard ATV or motorcycle helmet with the chin strap properly fastened.
John Weidl, Whitewater city manager, stated, “We’re an increasingly diverse community and the city and our elected officials will continue to find ways of supporting that, including offering an increasingly diverse range of ways to commute for education, recreation, relaxation, or employment. No matter your intent, please be safe and mindful of other community members as you enjoy scooters, golf carts, and ATV/UTV usage throughout our community.”
Mary Kenne has received the State Delta Kappa Gamma Missling Award at the state convention. The purpose of the award is to recognize and honor a member who has given distinguished and outstanding service to the organization which supports and encourages women educators.
As the principal at Washington Elementary School from 1993-2006, she was instrumental in establishing and coordinating a Student Achievement Guarantee In Education (SAGE) Program, Headstart in the school, and providing a free breakfast program. She helped direct a major remodeling of the school, incorporating specific things that invited students to learn such as incorporating mini greenhouse windows in the classrooms. For the local DKG chapter she helped to set-up an ongoing funded scholarship at the university which provides a $1000 scholarship each year to a university student in the field of education.
One person said, “She was a real people person with an infectious laugh!” We are very proud of all of Mary’s accomplishments.
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided courtesy of Lori Heidenreich.
Do you and your young kids love to sing, dance, and play musical instruments? Do you wish you had new parenting strategies to handle stress, meltdowns, and challenging behaviors?
Children ages zero to five and their caregivers are invited to Sing, Dance, Thrive, a free class at the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library on Saturday, May 13 at 10:00 a.m. Participants will engage in imaginative music and movement adventures, playfully dance with colorful ribbons and parachutes, and nurture relationships by deepening emotional awareness and learning coping strategies for home and school.
The class is taught by Noelle Larson, a Board-Certified Music Therapist, graduate of Whitewater High School and Berklee College of Music, and the owner of Circle of Song Music Therapy, LLC. Noelle has a passion for helping clients and participants to “Connect, Thrive, and Come Alive Through Music,” strengthen family relationships, learn adaptive coping strategies, and experience wonder and joy through the delight of participating in live music making.
Editor’s note: The link to an article on Fox9.com, “Wisconsin sheriff’s deputy fatally shot in St. Croix County during DWI stop, and the following obituary, were provided to the Banner by Michael Leising, who is a clerk at the Whitewater Post Office. Michael is the father of Courtney Leising, Kaitie’s spouse.
Kaitlin “Kaitie” R. Leising, age 29, of New Richmond, WI, died unexpectedly and tragically on May 6, 2023 while in the line of duty.
Kaitie (lovingly nicknamed Bug) was born on January 10, 1994 in Scottsbluff, Nebraska to Roger and Kristine (Hansen) Stevens. She graduated in 2012 from Chadron High School, and then went on to Black Hills State University in Spearfish, SD, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science degree and played golf. From a young age, Kaitie knew she wanted to go into law enforcement. She had such a love for people, especially children, who always seemed to gravitate towards her. She was always willing and eager to help others around her, even taking a special interest as a teenager to her peers that were less fortunate than her. After graduating from the police academy, she immediately excelled at police work, first serving with the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office in Rapid City, SD, and then with the St. Croix County Sheriff’s Office in Hudson, WI. She was a doer – if anything needed to be done, she was there (with the exception of cooking or the dishes at home!) She will be remembered as small, but feisty.
On October 7, 2017, she was united in marriage to her best friend, Courtney Leising, and the two were blessed with their son, Syler in early 2023.
In her free time, she loved reading, puzzles, and spending time outdoors camping, hiking, kayaking, waterskiing, and playing basketball. She relished in time spent on all things Harry Potter, watching crime shows, and cheering on the Denver Broncos (despite it putting strain on her marriage with her Packer-loving wife!) Above everything, her greatest passion was her family – spending time with her wife, Courtney, and her son Syler, who was her everything. She had an amazing sparkle for life, always making others around her smile and laugh. Her humor was infectious, her laugh contagious, and her loyalty for those she loved most unwavering and steadfast. To those who knew her most, she was oh so much more.
She is survived by her wife, Courtney; son, Syler; parents, Kris & Roger Stevens; sister, Jordyn (Tom) Stevens; Julie Hawkinson (grandma); in-laws, Beth & Dave Brehm; sisters-in-law, Morgan (Bradley) and Brittany Leising; dogs, Miller and Ranger; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and special friends, Jenifer and John Paul.
She was preceded in death by her grandmothers, Sandie and Dorothy; grandpa, Dan; and special friend, Zack.
Visitation will be held at 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. on Friday, May 12 at Hudson High School, 1501 Vine St, followed by a funeral service at 12 p.m. The service will be livestreamed: see funeral home website for details. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF.org)
Services entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Baldwin, WI. (715) 386-3725. www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com
Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #199 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Fri., May 12, 2023, in honor of St. Croix County Sheriff’s Deputy Kaitie Leising, who was killed in the line of duty on Sat., May 6, 2023, at the age of 29.
“Deputy Kaitie Leising was admired by her colleagues and community alike for the positivity, drive, and dedication to service she carried with her every day,” said Gov. Evers. “The weight of Deputy Leising’s death is a loss felt by folks across the state. We continue to keep Deputy Leising’s family and loved ones, the St. Croix County Sheriff’s Office, the St. Croix County community, and all those that knew and served alongside her in our hearts as they mourn her tragic passing.”
Deputy Leising joined the St. Croix County Sheriff’s Office in 2022 and had previously served the Pennington County, South Dakota Sheriff’s Office.
Services for Deputy Leising will be held on Fri., May 12, 2023, in Hudson.
