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The public is invited to view the Wisconsin Lego Users Group (WisLUG) large builds at the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library on Saturday, May 20. Drop in the library’s community room anytime between 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to see these intricate, fun creations. This is a free, family-friendly event. There will also be a Lego building station set up for all ages to enjoy.  

The Irvin L Young Memorial Library is located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater.  

Contact Sarah French with questions at sfrench@whitewater-wi.gov or 262-458-2782. 

On May 7th, residents at Mulberry Glen Senior Living Community in Whitewater gathered to enjoy Sundae Sundays -an ice cream bar social gathering that is held monthly. Culver’s of Whitewater provided the delicious flavors of their famous custard. Residents could add syrups and toppings to make their sundaes tasty.

A Proclamation on Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, 2023

  Every day when law enforcement officers pin on their badges, they make an extraordinary commitment to the American people: to rush toward danger regardless of the risk and to faithfully stand up for the rule of law. Across our neighborhoods, towns, and cities, they put themselves in harm’s way, hoping to return home safely to their families. On Peace Officers Memorial Day and during Police Week, we celebrate the remarkable courage of our law enforcement community and honor the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect their fellow Americans. 

   As a Nation, we expect a lot from our law enforcement officers. They save lives by keeping our roads, subways, and highways safe and responding to domestic violence incidents and natural disasters. We ask them to ensure public safety, build trust within our neighborhoods, and protect the well-being of our communities. Too often, they are also called upon to respond to mass shootings, drug overdoses, mental health crises, and more. Being a law enforcement officer is not just what they do; it is who they are.

  The same is true for their families, who sacrifice alongside these heroic Americans. It takes a special person to marry or be the child of a law enforcement officer — knowing the uncertainty as their loved one walks out the door and dreading the possibility of receiving that phone call.

   No memorial can ever fill the void left in the hearts of those who have lost a loved one in the line of duty. But their sacrifices in full service to their communities and to our Nation will never be forgotten. We will continue to honor their memories with actions that help keep our law enforcement officers and communities safe from harm. 

   When I took office at the height of the pandemic, State, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement budgets were shrinking. Some agencies were facing their lowest staffing levels in decades, undermining their ability to perform their jobs. That is why we provided crucial funding to help police departments build new training facilities, recruit new personnel, and give officers a raise. I also expanded benefits for first responders who were disabled in the line of duty and their families. And I signed laws improving officer wellness by expanding critical mental health resources to address the physical and emotional trauma that so many members of our law enforcement community experience.

   Meanwhile, I have taken steps to keep law enforcement officers safer on the job by signing the most sweeping gun safety law in nearly three decades. It helps keep more guns out of the hands of dangerous people, including by broadening restrictions on domestic abusers, which is critical because domestic violence calls can often turn deadly for police. This law also supports crisis interventions, including extreme risk protection orders, and provides a billion dollars to address the mental health crisis in America. We are also strengthening background checks for 18 to 20-year-olds trying to purchase guns, helping prosecutors crack down on illegal gun sales, and reining in ghost guns that police across the country are increasingly finding at crime scenes.

   As I have often said, when it comes to keeping our communities safe, the answer is not to defund the police. It is to fund them with the resources and training they need to protect and serve our communities and to build trust with the American public. My Safer America Plan calls on the Congress to invest in recruiting, hiring, and training more than 100,000 additional officers for effective, accountable community policing, consistent with the standards of my policing Executive Order. My plan also invests in programs that send social workers and other professionals to respond to calls that should not be the responsibility of law enforcement. And it invests $5 billion in proven crime-prevention strategies like community violence interruption. We must not accept the false choice between public safety and public trust; they are two sides of the same coin. 

   At the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, D.C., there is a quote engraved on the wall that reads, “It is not how these officers died that made them heroes, it is how they lived.” Today, during this week, and year-round, we express our gratitude for the courageous women and men of our Nation’s law enforcement community. We honor the memory of the members who made the ultimate sacrifice and pray for their families. And we recommit ourselves to the sacred task of creating a safer and more just Nation for all Americans. 

   By a joint resolution approved October 1, 1962, as amended (76 Stat. 676), and by Public Law 103-322, as amended (36 U.S.C. 136-137), the President has been authorized and requested to designate May 15 of each year as “Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the week in which it falls as “Police Week.”

   NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2023, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 14 through May 20, 2023, as Police Week. I call upon all Americans to observe these events with appropriate ceremonies and activities and salute our Nation’s brave law enforcement officers and remember their peace officer brothers and sisters who have given their last full measure of devotion in the line of duty. I also call on the Governors of the United States and its Territories, and appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day. I further encourage all Americans to display the flag at half-staff from their homes and businesses on that day.

   IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-seventh.

                            JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

A program designed to provide working adults with technical college credits a pathway to a bachelor’s degree will see the first cohort of graduates in several years cross the stage on the UW-Whitewater campus on May 13.

Developed by the UW-Whitewater’s Rock County’s College of Integrated Studies, the online Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences offers a flexible degree completion pathway for students who hold an applied associate degree from a technical college. The BAAS degree was offered at many of the two-year campuses in the UW Colleges system, according to Tricia Clasen, dean of the College of Integrated Studies, but all campuses stopped enrolling new students in the program when the colleges were restructured in 2017.

“Everything paused during the restructuring,” said Clasen. “As far as I know, ours is the only campus to reinstate the program, which we relaunched in fall 2021 after redesigning it to have emphases that are most relevant to today’s workforce needs.”

In addition to emphasis areas in digital marketing, professional selling, leadership, criminology and human services, a personalized emphasis allows students to design their own emphasis area. Internships and credit for prior learning help shorten time to degree completion.

Clasen says the degree serves many purposes.

“We know that many students out there need a bachelor’s degree to be able to gain certification. Others need it for advancement or to qualify for a raise. And, for some, it’s a gateway to earning a master’s degree.”

She adds that the flexibility of the program is key for working adults who often face multiple challenges including family demands.

“So many working adults have some college credits but no degree, sometimes from multiple institutions. With other degree completion programs, students often feel like they are starting over again. Our advisors work very hard to take in as many credits as possible.” 

In addition to intensive, hands-on advising that often requires a deep-dive into multiple transcripts and involves faculty from both the Rock and Whitewater campuses, Clasen highlights the effort to create emphases that were relevant to working professionals and redesigning courses to be relevant to real-world situations. For example, they designed a statistics course that’s applied and an online lab science course that focuses on human diseases.

A path to bachelor’s degree… and graduate school

Current enrollment in the fully online degree program is 41, and six graduates will earn their degrees this May. One of those to do so is Amy Moore, veterans services coordinator at UW-Whitewater, who is earning a BAAS with an emphasis in leadership.

Moore, a native of Chippewa Falls, joined the Navy after graduating high school and used her military benefits to earn an associate degree from Chippewa Valley Technical College.

“I never planned on getting a bachelor’s degree. The associate degree was enough to get me my dream job, which was working in veterans services on a college campus.”

Moore, who has worked on the Whitewater campus since 2019, also raised four children as she worked full time. As her children left home and some looked as if they might settle down in other parts of the country, she initially looked into earning a bachelor’s degree to be able to more easily find a job in veterans services in another state. 

“With the Wisconsin GI Bill, I could have gone to any school in the UW System. I looked at every college’s online programs to see where I could get the biggest bang for my buck. Whitewater won hand over fist. The program transferred 100 credits from my joint service transcript and my associate degree. I only needed 47 more credits to graduate, but added one more credit to earn summa cum laude.”

With all four children located in Wisconsin, the plan is now to use the bachelor’s degree to be a substitute teacher when she eventually retires from her veterans services position. 

And Moore is not done learning.

“I had so much fun, I applied for the master’s program in higher education leadership at UW-Whitewater, and I start my first class in the fall!” 

A lack of degree hampered job search

May graduate Nicole Brandl found the lack of bachelor’s degree to be a barrier after she lost her job during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I applied to several positions online without any response,” said Brandl. “After doing some research, I learned that the algorithm behind the online job platforms was rejecting my application due to the box not being checked for a bachelor’s degree, despite my years of on-the-job experience. Because of this, I decided to apply to UW-Whitewater to finish my degree. After working through my previous credits and my end goal, my advisor suggested I apply to the BAAS program.”

Brandl, who lives in Clinton and works in sales at PlayMonster Group in Beloit, was able to apply the credits from a previous associate degree in marketing to a BAAS with a personalized emphasis that blends coursework in business, communications and leadership. 

“Honestly, I most likely would not have pursued my degree if it wasn’t for UW-Whitewater,” said Brandl. “I wanted my degree to come from an accredited, prestigious business school, and that was Whitewater.” 

Ready to put new skills into practice

Another nontraditional student to earn a BAAS degree this May is Laurie Harvey. Harvey, who lives in Elkhorn, lost her son Scotty to a drug overdose.

“When my son died, he had been struggling with drugs for years,” said Harvey. “There was never any help for him in Walworth County, and no support for families. He was the best kid, and the only person he was hurting was himself.” 

Her son served two stints in prison for theft to support his addiction, and she found him after he overdosed just 10 days after his latest release. She sought to turn the anger and helplessness she was feeling — and still feels — into doing something.

Harvey, who has also been taking care of a grandson with special needs for 20 years, used the credits she’d earned in an applied associate degree in special education from Gateway Technical College to apply to the criminology emphasis in the BAAS program.

“I thought I might be able to learn enough to be able to talk to the judge who does drug court to change the policy to better help these people. I am not your traditional college student — I am 62 years old and I never had any intention of going back to school until life struck me with a devastating blow. When I realized that there was a need for change in my community, I decided to try to see if I could make a difference myself.”

Now that Harvey has a better understanding of what the courts can and cannot do, she’s eager to see if she can make that difference.

“I want to go in there and watch the drug courts and see what’s happening. I need to try to make a difference. For my son’s sake, I need to try.”

For more information about UW-Whitewater at Rock County’s BAAS degree program, visit the website or contact Trica Clasen, dean of the College of Integrated Studies, at clasenp@uww.edu or 608-898-5072.

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The Whitewater Federation of Women’s Clubs is delighted to report that its Ladies and Young Ladies Tea, held on Sunday, April 30, was completely sold out for two seatings — a wonderful result after having to forego the event during the years of the pandemic. The tea was held at Whitewater’s lovely Bassett House, and all proceeds will go to preserve this historic home. Ladies of all ages — and one dapper gentleman — unanimously applauded the event as a delightful experience they intend to enjoy for years to come. Guests were treated to a course of delicious savories, including chicken curry tea sandwiches and mini sausage quiches, followed by a dessert course that included madeleines and mini butter horns, both homemade. Also enjoyed were homemade blueberry scones with clotted cream from England. On site was a selection of elegant hats for guests to wear, although a number of guests sported their own millinery finery. While the tea had been on hiatus since 2019 because of COVID, the WFWC is pleased to announce that, once again, it will now be an annual event each spring. We hope to see you in 2024!

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 28^th 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

(0586P, Whitewater Historical Society)