Archives

Whitewater Community Food Pantry Blessed with Generosity

The Whitewater Community Food Pantry has been very blessed with the generosity of so many individuals and organizations. This made it possible for us to be very generous with our patrons.

The Whitewater High School and Middle School students collected 1300 lbs. of food with their Homecoming Food Drive. Beth Babcock, the “Stuff The Bus” coordinator, accompanied the students October 14th to drop off the food donation at the Whitewater pantry.

Monday, October 14th, through October 18th, the FFA and elementary school students collected food as well for the Stuff The Bus event.

October 21st, the Nelson stuffed bus delivered to the pantry 6,507 lbs. of food, and Beth Babcock presented a monetary donation of $7,212.00 collected through the generosity of many Whitewater citizens. We are very grateful to Beth for all her work in putting on this yearly event and to Dave Nelson for providing the Nelson Bus.

Also this past October, Festival Foods donated $1,000.00 worth of food for Thanksgiving.

November 10th, the Lambda Chi Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, and Alpha Sigma Fraternity donated 1400 lbs. of food and $824.10 from their Fall 2019 Food Drive.

St. John’s Masonic Lodge brought in 70 cases of canned vegetables.

The Stone School 4H Club and the Katzman Family held a fundraiser to purchase 150 fruit pies to give to the Whitewater Community Food Pantry patrons to go along with their Thanksgiving meal.

December 12th, Stuff The Squad Car organized by the Whitewater Police Officers collected over 1200 lbs. of food.

Maclean Fogg donated 18(20 lb.) turkeys.

Large donations came in from the Congregational Church. The Congregational United Church of Christ collected ‘Gift-of-Love-Bags’ to be given to our pantry for Thanksgiving. Richmond Methodist Church, St. John’s Church, and St. Patrick Catholic Church, and several other churches and individuals, too numerous to mention, also brought generous Holiday donations.

Derek Harvey, a young man from Waterford, and his mother collected 2 large cart fulls of groceries for the pantry.

Dardan Agushi, a young Whitewater University graduate bought 12 bags of groceries for The Whitewater Community Food Pantry. He was so happy to be able to make this donation to the pantry.

We wish to thank the Whitewater Community and Walmart for their support and generosity.    

The pantry will be open January 2, 2020, from 8:30 to 12:00 noon. Being the New Year, everyone needs to bring identification for all family members and a current address.

Happy New Year, everyone!

Submitted by Pat Chaput and Barbara Quast, Managers of The Whitewater Community Food Pantry

Three Whippets Reach Podium at Mid-States Classic

The Whippet Wrestling Team had the opportunity to host and participate in the Mid-States Wrestling Classic held at UWW on December 28 and 29. This is a long standing tournament that has been going on for over 40 years and has some of the top talent from WI and Norther Illinois participating. This year the athletes came from 37 teams partaking in the very talented pool.

This year the Whippets all wrestled will with 5 of the 11 competitors reaching day 2 of competition. Reaching day two included Jaden Salmieri, David Cushman, Carter Friend, Gehrig Monday, and Zach Porter.

Jaden wrestled through some illness and finished the tournament at 11th place in a strong pool of wrestlers at 132 pounds. Zach Porter coming back out for the sport to close out his senior year did very well at heavyweight for the Whippets. He had the number four seed on the ropes in the quarter finals before falling. He then came back on day two and lost a couple close matches, one in ride out overtime to take 12th place.

The Mid-States Classic honors the top 8 wrestlers in their weight class on the podium at the end of the night. This year Whitewater claimed 3 top six finishers. David Cushman wrestled a very good tournament going 5-2 on the weekend to claim 5th place. Carter Friend followed a close quarterfinal match and came back to close out the night in 5th place with a great overtime win. Gehrig Monday also battled some illness the morning of the second day but wrestled his heart out, winning two really tough matches to get onto the podium. He then dropped his last match to place 6th for the tournament.

Overall the coaching staff was happy with how the entire team wrestled, as this is a very competitive tournament; if you are not up for it, it can be a short lived competition. 

Full Results

Article and Photos Submitted by Coach John Schimming

“Why We Have Liberals & Conservatives & Why We Need Them Both” – Seniors in the Park, Friday, 1/3, 10:30 a.m.

Brian Bentel

SCHOLARLY SCOOP

Friday, January 3, 10:30 a.m.

Starin Park Community Building

504 W Starin Rd

Many Americans have become cynical in response to a perceived loss of civility in politics in recent decades. Social media and the 24-hour news cycle contribute to this seemly unbridgeable divide. Lines have been drawn, and heels dug in, as the left and right regularly square off for vicious exchanges in what now passes as American politics. We understand the frustration felt when facing an ideological opponent, but less understood is why the two sides exist in the first place. Brian Bentel takes on this daring question with the goal of increasing understanding between left and right, and adds another important question: are the values of either side reflected in the policies enacted by our two dominant parties? 

Speaker: Brian Bentel, Ph.D., Lecturer, Dept of Sociology, Criminology and Anthropology, UW-W

Liz Cordio-Schneider Celebrating 90th Birthday

Liz Cordio-Schneider will be celebrating her 90th birthday with an open house celebration on Sunday, January 5, from 1-3 pm, at the Cravath Lakeside Community Center, 341 S. Fremont, Whitewater, WI. The Cordio Family would like to extend an invitation to those who would like to wish her well and celebrate this milestone together.

Jon Anthony Feucht, 42, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 8, 2019 at Fond du Lac Lutheran Home

Jon Anthony Feucht, 42, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 8, 2019 at Fond du Lac Lutheran Home.

Jon was born June 17, 1977 at St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac the son of Alan and Janet Weber Feucht. Jon was a graduate of Waupun High School, class of 1996. He furthered his education and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in English writing in 2003 from Whitewater, and then a Master of Science in Education in 2008 also at UW Whitewater. Jon had been working on a Doctorate degree online with East Tennessee State University in Educational Leadership and Public Analysis. He was also working on his dissertation until his health prevented him from continuing. Jon was employed at UW Whitewater and also Blue Sky Designs Inc. On June 17, 2006 Jon married Sarah Faulkner. The couple resided in Whitewater until Jon’s health was failing and he since has resided at the Lutheran Home in Fond du Lac. He extremely enjoyed fishing, writing, and music with his favorite song being “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. Jon wrote two books, “The Tan Car” and “Straight Talks From My Desk.” He also co-authored along with two professors from UW Whitewater, “Disability, Augmentative Communication, and the American Dream.” On the campus of UW Whitewater Jon founded the Authentic Voices of America Summer Camp for young augmentative alternative communication device users. The goal was for young people, ages 12-19 with severe speech disorders, to learn ways to use their devices while hanging out and having fun. In 2000, Jon received the Augmentative Communication and Empowerment Supports Award from Temple University in Pennsylvania where he was employed as a mentor. In 2017 Jon received the UW Whitewater Outstanding Alumni Award.

Jon is survived by his wife, Sarah Feucht, daughter of Jerry and Kathy Faulkner of Toledo, OH; father and mother, Alan and Janet Feucht of Waupun; brother, Jeff (Raelynn) Feucht of Fond du Lac; sister, Janeen (Tim) Patterson of Fond du Lac; niece and nephew, Brandon and Robyn Patterson; along with several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Jon was preceded in death by a stillborn brother, Scott Michael in 1970; his paternal grandparents, Joseph and Gladys Feucht; his maternal grandparents, Greg and Angie Weber; an aunt; four uncles; cousins; and several friends.

A celebration of Jon’s life took place Sunday, October 13, 2019 at 4 p.m. at Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home in Waupun with Rev. John Radetski officiating.

Jon’s family would like to thank his aides, teachers, professors, attendant care providers, and a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Fond du Lac Lutheran Home and Marquardt Hospice for the care and compassion given to Jon. Thanks also to those who supported the Authentic Voices of America in the annual golf outing at Rolling Meadows in Fond du Lac.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be directed to the Fond du Lac Lutheran Home, 244 N. Macy St. Fond du Lac WI 54935 or Marquardt Hospice, 1045 Hill St. Watertown WI 53098.

“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”-Jon’s way of life.

Werner Harmsen Funeral Home of Waupun and staff are serving the family. Please visit our website at www.wernerharmsen.com for further information and to send condolences.

Meeting the Kikkoman Challenge — One Donation at a Time

Whitewater has a rich tradition of giving from within our community that ensures that we all have opportunities for happiness and success. The Whitewater Community Foundation (WCF) invites you to join us by investing in Whitewater. Our mission, “to enhance the quality of life in the Whitewater area through educational, cultural, charitable or benevolent expenditures,” depends on the generosity of people like you. 

In 2018, the Foundation and the Whitewater Unified School District were honored to receive a $100,000 endowment from Kikkoman Foods Foundation, Inc. establishing a fund within the WCF to provide scholarships for students graduating from Whitewater High School. To thank the Kikkoman Foods Foundation, our Board of Directors has committed to raise matching funds, and we are asking you to be a part of that.

A gift from you by December 31st, 2019 can provide necessary funding to ensure that the WCF can continue its original mission to award scholarships to graduating students from Whitewater High School. Through Community Action Grants given twice a year, WCF supports programs such as Lakeview School providing students with PE equipment, Trailhead Perspectives offering an SEL based summer school program, WALCO Bookworms providing sets of books for children, and Washington School which provided ukuleles to students for imitation, exploration and improvisation learning.

To donate, simply send a check made payable to Whitewater Community Foundation at P.O. Box 428, Whitewater, WI 53190, or donate online at www.whitewatercommunityfoundation.org by clicking the “Donate” button. You may donate to our General Fund or, if you prefer, you will have an opportunity to choose a designation for your gift by selecting a specific category or focus area that you are passionate about. For tax purposes, the Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. The Foundation asks permission to announce your generous donation in future annual reports.  If you prefer to remain anonymous, please state your preference with the donation.  For more information, contact info@whitewatercommunityfoundation.org.

Thank you for considering the Foundation as a part of your charitable giving for 2019. 

Contact:
Bonnie Miller
whitewatercommunityfoundation.org 
262-458-4088

“Yesterday” – Tuesday December 31 at 12:30 p.m., Seniors in the Park

“Yesterday” – Tuesday December 31 at 12:30 p.m., Seniors in the Park

 

When: Tuesday, December 31, 12:30 p.m.

Where: Seniors in the Park

Movie Information:  Following a  massive power outage, a struggling musician wakes up in an alternate
timeline, discovering he’s the only person on Earth who remembers The Beatles…he soon becomes a worldwide musical sensation. Toe-tapping, singalong fun!  (Comedy/Fantasy/Musical/Romance)  Rated PG-13; 1 hour, 56 minutes. (2019)

 

 

Rodney Dean Berg, 84, died peacefully at home on December 10th, 2019

Rodney Dean Berg, 84, died peacefully at home on December 10th with his wife and daughters at his side. He was born on December 13, 1934 to Chester and Irene (Sievert) Berg. He was raised on the family farm on Berg Road, Lima Township in Rock County. The second of four children, he went to Lima Center School then on to Whitewater High School graduating in 1952.

Rod joined the Wisconsin National Guard, then volunteered for the draft in 1954 and served in the army for two years in Europe. Upon his return, he worked on the family farm for a time, but his earlier interest in woodworking led him to the construction business in 1961.

Rodney Dean Berg

On June 24th, 1961 he married the former Donna Matson of Eagle River, WI. They made their home in Whitewater, raising two daughters there. He built an enviable reputation as a respected home builder, being hands on until he was 70 years old.

His building craft also led to building 2 boats, neighborhood floats and elaborate decorations for his daughter’s proms and homecoming dances. These included a stagecoach, carousel and paddle wheel boat to name a few. Always a car enthusiast, he built motorized cars for his kids as well as a Model T truck. In addition to all his building projects, Rod was a volunteer firefighter with the Whitewater Fire Department for 25 years, head usher and church council president at First English Lutheran Church. As Rod loved sports, he enjoyed playing softball, golf and went snowmobiling in his younger years. He then became a fan supporting UWW men’s athletics, and loved watching his daughters and later, granddaughter compete in sports. The family enjoyed many spring break trips to Florida.

Although he was known for his built in cabinetry in the homes he constructed, in retirement he took the furniture building to another level.  A charitable man, he donated many chests, often engraved, and other items to organizations around the community including Whitewater High School, UW-Whitewater, First English Lutheran Church, Milton FFA, Evansville FFA and even fundraisers for people he didn’t know. He was rewarded for some of this charity work when inducted into the UW-Whitewater Hall of Fame with the Distinguished Service Award in 2003.

Rod appreciated good music and enjoyed going to concerts. His interests ranged from ABBA to Engelbert, Tom Jones to Mickey Gilley and he looked forward to trips to Branson to see several entertainers in a few days’ time. 

Rod is survived by his wife of 58 years, Donna of Whitewater, daughter Brenda Lowry and only grandchild, Logan Lowry of Appleton, and daughter Sandra Miller of Fitchburg. He is further survived by his sister, Audrey Kaasa, Phoenix, AZ, brothers Alan (Barbara) Berg, Dacula, GA and Bill (Cindy) Berg, LaCrosse, WI.  Cousin, Robert (Mary) Berg, Oak Park, IL and Cousin through marriage, Diana Berg (Richard dec.), Oak Brook, IL. Sisters-in-law Lolita Kachel, Whitewater, Bunny (Rolf) Grimsrud, Superior and Mia Matson, Poway, CA. He had several nieces and nephews and had the pleasure of seeing many of them, as well as his three siblings, just this past September.  He was predeceased by his parents, Chet & Irene, father & mother-in-law, John and Laura Matson, brothers-in-law John Matson and David Kachel, cousin, Richard Berg and both sons-in-law, Judson Lowry and Matthew Miller.

Rod was most proud of his farming roots, his service to his country, and his attention to detail in his construction of homes and later furniture. He treasured his family, friends, and work partners over the years. He enjoyed weeknight visits to local watering holes to catch up with friends as well as dinner out on Saturday night. His favorite night of the year became the ‘Rod & Wally’s Warhawk Auction’ that he started with his late friend, Wally Schilberg, 24 years ago.

The family sincerely thanks the many friends, family and neighbors for their calls and visits these last several months. Thank you to Drs. Kontny and Porter, and the nurses at SSM Health Oncology in Fort Atkinson for your tremendous care and concern for Rod. Many thanks to Agrace Hospice Care for helping our family keep dad at home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First English Lutheran Church or the Whitewater Food Pantry.

Visitation will take place on Friday, January 3, 2020 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI.  A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2020 at First English Lutheran Church, 401 W Main St, Whitewater, WI.  Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 4, 2020 from 10 a.m. until the time of services. 

Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Wrestlers Win Mount Horeb Team Championship; JV Wrestlers Are Runner-Up at Elkhorn Invitational

On Saturday, December 21, the Whippet Wrestlers were up bright and early to travel to Mount Horeb to participate in the Mount Horeb Wrestling Invitational. Sixteen teams participated in this tournament incorporating all three divisions. After a competitive day of wrestling, the Whippets found themselves defending their title, outdistancing Oregon to win the team title.

Mount Horeb Invitational Team Champions

This was truly a team effort by Whitewater as it was a close two team race all day between the Whippets and the Oregon Panthers. Out of the 13 weights the Whippets had 8 of them bring home a top three finish. This was a good tournament for the team to be in as it provided great competition. Oregon, coached by WHS alumni Brian Hookstead, is a much improved team with some very tough competitors.

Gehrig Monday, Champion, 195 Pounds

Individually, Gehrig Monday brought home the championship at 195 pounds. Gehrig wrestled a great tournament, going 4-0 with 3 pins along the way. Gehrig commented before his match that last year he was happy to be in the finals and ended up taking second; this year he wouldn’t be satisfied unless he won it. This was a great mindset for the senior to have heading into the finals. He wrestled a great match against a strong kid from Madison Memorial on the way to the pin.

Coming in runner up for the Whippets included Jaden Salmieri, David Cushman, and Will Leibbrand. All three of these young men had two pins leading up to their championship matches.

Bringing home the bronze medal for Whitewater were Brian Porcaro, Cooper Hammond, and Marcus DePorter. Dylan DuClos wrestled his best of the year finishing 4-1. Due to losing a quarterfinal match the best Dylan could place was 5th. 

The Whippets are next in action on Friday and Saturday when they host the Mid-States Wrestling Tournament held at UW-Whitewater Kachel Gym. Wrestling begins at 10. 

——————

On Saturday, December 21, the Whippet JV Wrestlers traveled to Elkhorn High School to participate in a 30 team JV tournament. When the dust settled, the Whippets found themselves in 2nd place, only 8 points behind team champion New Berlin. 

Elkhorn JV Invitational Runner-Ups

This is a great accomplishment for the Whippets as there are some tough individuals at this tournament as it is the last tournament heading into the winter break, and there are some varsity wrestlers competing.

Bringing home individual championships after going 4-0 on the day were Victor Hernandez, Leo Gonzalez, and Josh Hacht.

Coming in runner-ups going 3-1 on the day were CJ Tomomitsu, Rye Fader, Aaron Porras, Shivam Kalra, Mason Nobs, and Scott Krebs.

Articles submitted by Coach John Schimming

Bernhard “Sonny” Weinberg, Ph.D., passed away December 11, 2019 in his hometown of Rehovot, Israel at the age of 83

Bernhard “Sonny” Weinberg, Ph.D., passed away December 11, 2019 in his hometown of Rehovot, Israel at the age of 83.  He graduated from: (Whitewater) College High School, Milwaukee School of Engineering and Ph.D. from University of Wisconsin.  He went on to become a professor of  Electrical Engineering at Michigan State University and retired to Rehovot, Israel.  Leaving behind his wife and two sons.  He always believed that Whitewater, his birthplace, was the center of the universe.