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A Banner reader wrote:

“As a resident of Whitewater, I have been looking for volunteering opportunities within the community during this time of need. I love the information for restaurants and thinking this would be somewhat similar, posted on the Banner. I have reached out to individual organizations but didn’t know if there were others trying to do the same. Maybe the information is hard to pull together but thought it worth the note. Thanks for all your efforts.”

Just this past weekend, Living Word Fellowship stepped forward to offer grocery shopping and errand service for those who have difficulty getting out. Their information is listed on the “Whitewater Responds to the COVID-19 community impact: Resources available for the community” post.

Though we recognize that many volunteer opportunities are not currently available due to the social distancing mandate, some residents probably have more time available than usual that they could dedicate towards serving others. If you can offer ways that these people might be of service, please email whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thank you.

Also, shown below is information on the new Volunteer Wisconsin website. Currently there don’t seem to be any opportunities listed in our general area.

COVID-19 Response Initiative launched on Volunteer Wisconsin website to connect volunteers and organizations to address pressing needs

As COVID-19 cases continue to increase in Wisconsin, significant community needs are developing in response to individuals having to self-quarantine and practice social distancing and the closure of schools, businesses, and other community resources.

To connect potential volunteers and organizations addressing these pressing concerns, the United Way of Wisconsin, Serve Wisconsin, and the Wisconsin Volunteer Coordinators Association created the COVID-19 Response Initiative on the Volunteer Wisconsin website.

“Many of the needs that communities across our state are currently facing and those that will arise in the coming weeks will require the assistance of volunteers to help provide critical services, such as food distribution, supplementing staff at medical or care facilities, services for children, and transportation to essential medical visits,” said Charlene Mouille, Executive Director of United Way of Wisconsin.

The Volunteer Wisconsin website will provide a centralized location for organizations throughout the state to post information on projects addressing these needs and for people interested in helping others search for COVID-19 response projects in their local communities,” said Jeanne Duffy, Executive Director of Serve Wisconsin 

The COVID-19 Response Initiative can be found on the Volunteer Wisconsin website at www.volunteerwisconsin.org.

Property owners whose assessments changed received a notice earlier this month from Accurate Appraisal, LLC. In the letter that accompanied that notice, it was indicated that “Open Book” was scheduled for Mon., 3/23 and Tues., 3/24 at the Municipal Building. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak and the mandate for social distancing, Accurate will be conducting Open Book by telephone rather than at the Municipal Building. Appointments are being made by clicking on the green button on the top of this page: http://accurateassessor.com/ and selecting Whitewater. Then choose a date and time and enter your personal information. Open Book is an opportunity for property owners to obtain information regarding their assessment, and, if desired, to provide reasons for why they believe their assessment may not be accurate. If you do not have Internet access you may call Accurate Appraisal at 1-800-770-3927 to schedule an appointment.

As you are probably aware, 2019 was a “seller’s market” in many parts of the United States, and Whitewater was no exception. At this time the job of the assessor is to make the best possible estimate as to what a property would have sold for on December 31, 2019. Historically, Accurate Assessor’s estimates have, on average, come very close to actual sales prices. They estimate that “the City will see another 6.5% to 7% increase for residential properties for 2020. Ranches saw the biggest increase, between 8.5% and 10%.”

Readers will recall that we have featured this offer from The Black Sheep in our “Whitewater Responds to the COVID-19 community impact: Resources available for the community” post:
“Beginning Wednesday, March 18, and every Tuesday through Friday, for as long as they can or until the schools reopen, you can come to The Black Sheep between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. or between 3:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. to receive a meal that you can heat at home or a fruit, cereal, yogurt, and sandwich option. We believe no one should go hungry. Please call or text to let them know one day in advance how many meals you will need the next day and what time you will be arriving. Their phone number is (262) 613-7119 or you may send them a Facebook message.”

Owner/Chef Tyler Sailsbery’s generous offer is featured in an article by Jonah Beleckis in The (Janesville) Gazette on Sunday, March 22. The article describes how discouraged Tyler was when the social distancing mandate dramatically impacted his business, but he garnered hope from a very generous tip for his employees together with the thought that he could help the community in this difficult time by providing free meals. If you’re a subscriber or you don’t get foiled by the paywall, you may read the article here.

Below is Tyler’s response to the article as posted on his Facebook page:

“It’s because of all you we have been able to hand out 254 completely free meals in the last three days. We know the need is only going to grow. I have a lot of good people in my corner. I am thankful for all that everyone does in this community. Matthew Sylvester-Knudtson, Lisa Dawsey Smith, Marjorie Stoneman, Rose Luna, Peter Zaballos, Kristine Zaballos, Jenny Hagen, Jen Kaina, Sara Kuhl, Maggie Laughner . A huge shout all of my staff who jumps on board and jumps in. So so many of our guests and friends that support and contribute. Thank you Jonah Beleckis for sharing goodness and positivity in a dark time.”

And this from the Black Sheep’s Facebook page: 

“My cart looked a little bit different at the restaurant supply store. Aside from being overflowing. I don’t think I’ve ever bought ranch, bagged lettuce, macaroni noodles, baby carrots, a few hundred pounds of meat or pre-made pasta sauce to name a few.

But I needed to know that no matter what, we had food for these kiddos next week when the school took a much desvered break from their lunch program for spring break.

In the last 3 days The Black Sheep has served 254 free meals to kids, families, and the older adult population . We were able to do so largely because of our faith that this will get better, but also because people are kind and generous. So many have already joined us in our mission to serve our community, and we know that so many more will.

I had to make that run out to that supply store because I’ve spent so many days moved and crying. Receiving notes and requests like the ones in this picture. Where siblings are finding food for their other siblings willing to give up a meal themselves. A selflessness no one should have to choose.

Again I’m thankful for people’s kindness and generosity and their words of encouragement and donations. I’m thankful for Dana reaching out and letting me know that A’viands would be dropping off meat and cheese on our bar (while I was on my way to the restaurant supply store) because they shut down their on campus cafe. I’m thankful for all the people that reached out for all the things that I forgot. (Like more ziplock bags and cupcake cups @Jen kina)

I’m thankful that this community rallies around not only my restaurant but all of businesses here that are trying to make this community better. Especially thankful for my staff that are working like crazy to make sure we can still sell food but even more importantly give it away.

This too shall pass.”

On the afternoon of Friday, March 20, Tom Ganser photographed a significant number of National Guard members arriving at the Whitewater Armory. Local residents also reported observing Guard members staying at the Super 8 on Friday night. It seems clear that this activity was related to the call up of troops in preparation to assist with the COVID-19 pandemic.

For a story from Channel 3000, “300 Wisconsin National Guard troops prepare to be deployed for help with COVID-19 outbreak”, click here.

For an article, “Here’s the latest National Guard mobilizations by state — more than 3,330 Guardsmen in 28 states” from Military Times, click here.

For a Facebook video with the Wisconsin National Guard Adjutant General explaining their role now that the Governor has declared a Public Health Emergency click here and look at the March 20 post.

The first confirmed case of COVID-19 was diagnosed in Jefferson County on Thursday, March 19, according to the Jefferson County Health Department. The patient has been cooperative in assisting the health department with contact tracing, they said in a press release.

The patient was tested at a facility outside of Jefferson County but is a resident of Jefferson County. The patient recently traveled domestically and is self-quarantined at home and is being monitored.

Meanwhile, Walworth County confirmed a third case of COVID-19 on Friday, March 20 and officials said it showed evidence of community spread of the coronavirus. Community spread means an infected person had no exposure to a known case of COVID-19 and did not travel to a place with known community spread. Two of the county’s three positive cases had no known contact with confirmed cases and had not traveled to an area with community spread, Walworth County Division of Public Health officials said in a news release Friday.

Rock County also had a second confirmed case, a 29-year-old, identified on Friday, March 20, bringing the total in our extended area to six.

Officials urged social distancing as an effective way to limit the spread of the virus. They recommend staying home as much as possible, avoiding public places and staying six feet away from other people during activities such as grocery shopping.

The Jefferson County Health Department and area health care providers are partnering together to complete contact tracing and follow-up guidance.

“We are in daily contact with this individual to monitor their symptoms and ensure they are receiving the support they need to be able to continue isolation at home,” said Gail Scott, director of Jefferson County Health Department. “Jefferson County Health Department is ready to deal with an increased number of cases. We will continue to work with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and our local partners, to assure our community remains safe and healthy,”

Fort HealthCare has also been preparing for the potential spread of coronavirus in the community.

“We are prepared to handle the potential increase of patients while maintaining and providing ongoing care for non-Coronavirus patients.” Mike Wallace, president and CEO of Fort HealthCare “The spread of COVID-19 puts us on heightened alert to expand our processes to keep our community and employees safe.”

Wallace said the hospital is working closely with the Jefferson County Health Department and under the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, as well as other healthcare partners to monitor, plan and respond to COVID-19. “Throughout the past few weeks, our team has been working diligently to ensure the safety of our patients, team, and the communities we serve,” Wallace said.

The health department is continuing to identify and contact anyone who has been in close contact with a person who is confirmed to have COVID-19. These people are asked to quarantine themselves for 14 days and are monitored for fever and respirator systems.

he situation with COVID-19 continues to rapidly evolve. Those who are experiencing a fever, cough or shortness of breath should contact their primary care provider in advance of visiting or do a virtual health visit at e+CARE at www.forthealthcare.com/ecare/ to screen for COVID-19. Those who have been exposed and are symptomatic are tested for COVID-19.

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid exposure to the virus. Clean hands often, avoid close contact, cover coughs and sneezes, clean and disinfect and practice social distancing by staying home if at all possible.

The City of Whitewater invites community members to continue to make Whitewater an exceptional community in which to live, work and play.  There are Board member openings/renewals  on:

BIRGE FOUNTAIN COMMITTEE –   Oversees maintenance of Birge Fountain.  Meet several times a year, normally on Wednesdays.

BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS – Hear requests from property owners for variance to the Zoning Code.  Alternate and regular positions open.  Meet 4^th Thursday of a month if there is a case.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY.   Promote economic development within Community.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND CABLE TV COMMISSION – Coordinate community outreach and engagement activities.   Advise on priorities, policies, and strategies-related equitable civic engagement and public participation in City decision making processes. 

DISABILITY RIGHTS COMMITTEE – Hear complaints filed by those believing disability rights have been compromised.  Meet as needed.

ETHICS COMMITTEE – Meet to hear and made recommendation regarding local government ethics complaints.  Meet as needed. 

LANDMARKS COMMISSION –  Oversees local Landmarks.  Meet the 1^st Thursday evening of each month at 6:00 p.m.

LIBRARY BOARD.   Oversees management of Irvin L. Young Memorial Library.  Meets the 3^rd Monday of each month.

PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.  To provide advice and guidance to City Boards and Committees on bicycle and pedestrian related issues.

PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD –    Oversee Parks and Recreation programs, Whitewater Aquatic Center,   and promotes recreational opportunities within the City. 

PLAN AND ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION –   Reviews plans for development in City and hears requests for conditional use permits.    Meets 2^nd Monday evening of each month at 6:00 p.m.

POLICE AND FIRE COMMISSION. Oversees hiring, termination, promotion and demotion of sworn personnel.  Meets quarterly and upon call.

PUBLIC ARTS COMMITTEE.  Oversees public arts projects.

TECHNOLOGY PARK BOARD.  Oversees Whitewater University Technology Park.

URBAN FORESTRY COMMISSION.  Provides input relating to Urban Forestry matters and oversees Bird City USA designation.  Meets monthly.

Interested citizens are asked to complete a Citizen Interest form, which can be obtained from the City Clerk or from the City’s website; please click here.

Interest forms must be returned to:  City Clerk, P.O. Box 178, Whitewater, Wisconsin 53190 (msmith@whitewater-wi.gov).    The review of applications will begin on or about April 1, 2020.  For further information, please contact City Clerk Michele Smith at (262) 473-0102 or msmith@whitewater-wi.gov.

The following letter was sent to families of all WUSD students on March 20.

Dear Families:

Thank you all for your cooperation and understanding during this school closure caused by COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus Virus). Governor Evers originally ordered schools closed until April 6. Recently, he extended that order to say that schools will be closed for the duration of the public health emergency. It is now likely that the Whitewater Unified School District will be closed beyond April 6. It is important for families and schools to plan and be prepared for a longer closure.

This week, we began the new challenge of educating students remotely. Whitewater teachers began online instruction for high school and middle school students and provided elementary students and parents with learning materials and packets. Home-based educational services will be suspended during spring break, Saturday, March 21 to Sunday, March 29.  Services will resume on March 30.

Home-based education is a challenge for all of us, but perhaps even more so for parents and guardians. We view parents and guardians as our partners in meeting this challenge.  We know there will be glitches in our first attempts in educating students remotely and communicating with parents and guardians. Please be assured that every WUSD educator is making a good faith effort to provide needed services to all children. Thanks for your patience, understanding, and continuing cooperation.

Please note that WUSD’s distribution of food for students and children will also be suspended during spring break. Distribution will resume on March 30. A number of community groups are providing food to families and community members.  To learn more about these resources, visit our website: https://www.wwusd.org/covid-19.

During the District closure, schools will not be answering their phones.  The best way to contact the school is via email. If you are running into problems logging into resources, please contact your student’s teacher.

Sincerely,

Dr. Jim Shaw, PhD
District Administrator

—

Estimadas Familias:

Gracias a todos por su cooperación y comprensión durante el cierre de esta escuela causado por COVID-19 (Nuevo virus del coronavirus). El gobernador Evers originalmente ordenó el cierre de las escuelas hasta el 6 de abril. Recientemente, extendió esa orden para decir que las escuelas permanecerán cerradas mientras dure la emergencia de salud pública. Ahora es probable que el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Whitewater permanezca cerrado más allá del 6 de abril. Es importante que las familias y las escuelas planifiquen y estén preparadas para un cierre más largo.

Esta semana, comenzamos el nuevo desafío de educar a los estudiantes de forma remota. Los maestros de Whitewater comenzaron la instrucción en línea para estudiantes de high school y middle school, y proporcionaron a los estudiantes de primaria y padres materiales y paquetes de aprendizaje. Servicios educativos basados en el hogar se suspenderán durante las vacaciones de primavera, el sábado, 21 de marzo al domingo, 29 de marzo. Servicios se reanudará el 30 de marzo.

La educación basado en el hogar es un desafío para todos nosotros, pero quizás aún más para los padres y tutores. Vemos a los padres y tutores como nuestros socios para enfrentar este desafío. Sabemos que habrá problemas técnicos en nuestros primeros intentos de educar a los estudiantes de forma remota y con el comunicar con los padres y tutores. Tenga la seguridad de que cada educador de WUSD está haciendo un esfuerzo de buena fe para proporcionar los servicios necesarios a todos los niños. Gracias por su paciencia, comprensión y cooperación continua.

Tenga en cuenta que la distribución de alimentos de WUSD para estudiantes y niños también se suspenderá durante las vacaciones de primavera. La distribución se reanudará el 30 de marzo. Varios grupos comunitarios están proporcionando alimentos a familias y miembros de la comunidad. Para obtener más información sobre estos recursos, visite nuestro sitio web:  https://www.wwusd.org/covid-19.

Durante el cierre del Distrito, las escuelas no contestarán sus teléfonos. La mejor manera de contactar a la escuela es por correo electrónico. Si tiene problemas para llegar a los recursos, comuníquese con el maestro de su hijo.

Sinceramente,

Dr. Jim Shaw, PhD

Administrador del Distrito

ReplyForward

MADISON, Wis. – In light of the ongoing developments related to the current COVID-19 virus and its impact on financial markets, Governor Tony Evers alongside the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) are reminding Wisconsinites the safest place to keep their money is in FDIC-insured banks and NCUA-insured credit unions. Gov. Evers is also cautioning individuals to remain vigilant against COVID-19-related scams.

“I’m confident that our financial institutions will be able to deliver necessary financial services to Wisconsinites throughout this pandemic,” said Gov. Evers. “The Federal Reserve has taken several steps since the start of this crisis to boost the economy and to ensure that the system has adequate liquidity.”

The Federal Reserve announced today several actions to further enhance the provision of U.S. dollar liquidity. Learn more here. In addition, the Federal Reserve, FDIC, NCUA, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and the Conference of State Bank Supervisors in a joint statement urged financial institutions to meet the needs of customers affected by COVID-19.

Some financial institutions have adjusted hours or services to help slow the spread of COVID-19 by practicing social distancing; however, financial institutions continue to offer ATM, mobile, or online banking services, and services via appointment or drive-through windows.

“During these unprecedented times, Wisconsinites may receive false information regarding the security of their deposits or their ability to access cash,” said DFI Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld. “Wisconsinites should be cautious of any person contacting them claiming to be employed by an agency, financial institution, or another entity, because these organizations won’t contact people asking for money or personal details, such as bank account information, credit and debit card numbers, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, or passwords.”

These scams may involve a variety of communication channels, including emails, phone calls, letters, text messages, faxes, and social media. These scams seek personal information that can be used to commit fraud or sell a person’s identity. Consumers should not provide this information and contact Wisconsin’s Consumer Protection Hotline at DATCPHotline@Wisconsin.gov or (800) 422-7128.

The chicks have arrived at Winchester True Value Hardware. Nine different varieties are here. We have Brahma, Rhode Island Red, Barred Rock, Black Australopithecus, Americana, Buff Orpington, Sapphire Gem, and assorted Polish Crested chickens. In the city of Whitewater you may be allowed to have up to six egg laying chickens, but you must obtain a permit. We have the supplies to get you started. We are open Monday thru Friday 8 am to 7 pm Saturday 8 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm. We hope to see you soon.

Chris Munz-Pritchard, Whitewater Neighborhood Services Director, told the Banner that citizens wishing to have chickens should be certain to review the Backyard Chicken Ordinance, and must submit an application no later than June 1, 2020 to: City of Whitewater Neighborhood Services, P. O. Box 178, Whitewater, WI 53190. Most importantly, you must not have roosters, and the chickens must be kept in a safe, CLEAN place.

The City of Whitewater’s Backyard Chicken Ordinance may be found here https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/DocumentCenter/View/216/Backyard-Chicken-Ordinance-PDF?bidId=

The city’s Chicken Permit Application form is available here: https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/DocumentCenter/View/221/Chicken-Permit-Application-Form-PDF?bidId= (Although the document includes a “submit form” button, that capability is not yet live.)