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It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.

This week’s image is a post card from 1907 showing the Christmas decorations in the “German Lutheran Church” in Whitewater. The German Lutheran Church was founded in 1865 and was located in the very old (1852) former Methodist Church on Church Street (after the Methodists moved to their new building on Center Street) in 1872-73. The German Lutheran Church eventually became St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church and the congregation demolished the old building in favor of a new church building in 1925, which still stands today. This image would have been taken in the old 1852 building.

Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.

(5519PC, Whitewater Historical Society)

By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com

According to an article on channel3000.com, “The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents on Wednesday [December 13] voted to approve a deal with the Republican-led state Legislature to provide funds for the school system in exchange for a freeze on diversity, equity and inclusion positions, among other conditions.

The regents voted 11-6 to approve the deal, which unlocks raises for UW employees and funding for capital projects including a proposed engineering building at UW-Madison.

Three chancellors, including UW-Whitewater Chancellor Dr. Corey A. King, spoke in support of the deal. UW-Milwaukee Chancellor Mark A. Mone cited a need to approve raises in order to retain staff.

The regents voted 9-8 on Saturday to reject the deal; however, on Tuesday a second vote was scheduled.“

Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman had recommended approval of the agreement, the development of which was spearheaded significantly by Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. Total funding that will be freed up by the agreement is over $800 million. Rothman indicated that the UWs rank 42nd out of 50 states nationally in public funding, stating, “We will continue to advocate that our state must do better.”

Governor Tony Evers did not support the agreement. After the affirmative vote he issued a statement that included the following comments, “This vote today represents a vast overreach by a group of Republicans who’ve grown exceedingly comfortable overextending, manipulating, and abusing their power to control, subvert, and obstruct basic functions of government. Republicans are unconstitutionally obstructing UW pay raises and investments that were already discussed, negotiated, and approved in the biennial budget the Legislature passed and I signed in July—these never should’ve been part of this conversation, period, because Republicans need only choose to release today what we all approved of months ago. Wisconsin also has readily available state resources we could invest right now, today, in our UW System to prevent further closures and layoffs—a fact of which legislative Republicans are more than well aware but refuse to do anything about, having rejected, for example, my proposed investments for the UW-Madison engineering building on two separate occasions already.”

Conditions of the agreement include:
1. Capping overall administrative positions at the UWs for three years.
2. Capping and restructuring positions dealing with diversity, equity and inclusion. Also, addressing specific issues connected to diversity and inclusion issues at the UWs, including:
a. UW-Madison to seek philanthropic support to create an endowed chair on conservative political thought or a similar field.
b. The UWs will eliminate any diversity statements in its admission applications.
c. The UWs will develop a module on freedom of expression for entering undergraduate students.
3. Guaranteeing admissions for the top 5% of in-state high school graduates at UW-Madison and the top 10% at all other UWs.

As part of the agreement, the Legislature would act on the following:
1. Approval of the pay plan for all UWs employees – 4% in ’23 and 2% in ’24.
2. Approval of the UWs $32 million workforce proposal to add capacity and develop talent in four key, high-demand fields of engineering, nursing/health care, business/finance, and computer/data science.
3. Approval of the new engineering hall at UW-Madison.
4. Approve the renovation of Winther/Heide Hall at UW-Whitewater.

The Whitewater High School Pom Team hit the court at halftime of a basketball game December 2, just two months after the creation of the team.

Back in October, a few interested students approached WUSD Athletic Director Justin Crandall with questions about what it would take to start a pom team at WHS. Crandall sensed the enthusiasm and spirit in the group, telling them that it would be possible—as long as they had a coach.

Pam O’Neal, a parent of one of the team’s student-athletes, stepped up to the challenge and got the team started on the logistics of beginning the season on a tight timeline. Tasks such as forming the team, acquiring uniforms and poms, and creating and teaching the routines needed to be tackled right away.

“The way this team came together and organized their first performance in just two months is an example of what makes the Whitewater Unified School District such a special place,” said Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, Superintendent. “We are so proud of these students, Coach O’Neal, and everyone who has made it happen. The team’s first performance was outstanding, and we look forward to them performing at many more events throughout the school year.”

The team already has 20 athletes and has raised over $4,000 in just a few weeks to purchase uniforms and poms. Looking ahead, the team aims to build on its foundation, expanding its repertoire of routines, and continuing to inspire and entertain. 

The team’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power and spirit of a dedicated group of students ready to make their mark on the high school experience.

To watch the WHS Pom Team’s inaugural performance, please visit https://www.youtube.com/live/e1T_8OYHgFs?si=7b4ijbDnkKW_ySUm&t=3842.

Editor’s note: The above press release was received from the Whitewater Unified School District.

Department of Health Services Urges Wisconsinites to Throw Away Applesauce Brands That are Part of Nationwide Recall Due to High Levels of Lead

Parents and caregivers should have children tested for elevated blood levels if they ate applesauce products included in the recall

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is advising food retailers and consumers to dispose of specific brands of applesauce containing cinnamon following a nationwide recall related to several brands of cinnamon applesauce puree pouches. These products may contain harmful levels of lead.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for the following brands of applesauce puree that contain cinnamon:

• WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree pouches
• Schnucks cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches
• Schnucks applesauce variety pack
• Weis cinnamon applesauce pouches

Multiple cases of lead poisoning have already been identified in several states, including three suspected cases in Wisconsin that are being investigated, due to children eating one of these products. A child has lead poisoning when their blood lead level measures greater than or equal to 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL).

Wisconsin’s Coolest Annual Event Celebrates 25 Years 

Special Olympics Wisconsin debuts 2024 Polar Plunge campaign with Inclusive Plunge, anniversary celebration 

MADISON, Wis. – Thousands of Special Olympics Wisconsin supporters across the state will be “Freezin’ for a Reason” at the 2024 Polar Plunge® for Special Olympics Wisconsin. This year’s slate of eight statewide events—plus an alternate plunge option—will celebrate 25 years of ice-cold memories. Additionally, Special Olympics Wisconsin will host the first ADA-compliant Inclusive Plunge in the nation. 

New in 2024, the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Wisconsin will host its first ever Inclusive Plunge. Using its ramp-entry lap pool, the Whitewater Aquatic Center will provide a unique Plunge experience for those with accessibility considerations. More information about the Inclusive Plunge will be announced at a later date. 

“We are thrilled to celebrate 25 years of the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Wisconsin,” Special Olympics Wisconsin President & CEO Chad Hershner said. “We have some great new locations on tap for 2024, and we are working hard to elevate this largest annual fundraising event for the organization. This year especially, we want to recognize so many incredible moments across so many incredible communities—truly 25 years of unyielding support for our Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes.” 

Three options for participation are available in 2024. First, and arguably most fun, Polar Plunger individuals and teams can jump in person across six Saturdays in eight statewide locations: 

              Saturday, Feb. 3 – Wisconsin Rapids (Anchor Bay Bar & Grill) 

              Saturday, Feb. 10 – Oshkosh (Menominee Park) 

              Saturday, Feb. 17 – Madison (Lottes Park) 

              Saturday, Feb. 24 – Green Bay (Perkofski Boat Launch) 

              Saturday, Feb. 24 – Milwaukee (Fox Brook Park) 

              Saturday, Mar. 2 – Chippewa Falls (Loopy’s Grill & Saloon) 

              Saturday, Mar. 2 – La Crosse (Black River Beach) 

              Saturday, Mar. 9 – Whitewater (Whitewater Aquatic Center)* 

Polar Plungers unavailable for an in-person plunge can still fundraise via the Alternative Plunge—a truly “create your own adventure” option. Dump a bucket of ice water over your head in the driveway, or take a dive on your spring break trip to warmer waters—all for a great cause. All Polar Plunge participants are encouraged to share their plunge via online form submission and by tagging SOWI on social media while using the hashtag #PlungeWI.  

Those opting out of an icy dip can become a Polar Pledger, still raising funds in support of Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes without getting wet.  

For both Polar Plungers and Polar Pledgers, each individual reaching the minimum fundraising fee of $100 is eligible for incentives. This year’s prizes include a collectible long sleeve t-shirt, socks, towel, blanket, and Bluetooth speaker—all branded with Special Olympics Wisconsin or 25 Years of Polar Plunge logos. 

All funds raised for this unique winter tradition helps thousands of statewide athletes train and compete in sporting events, supports year-round health and wellness programming, promotes inclusion in schools, and equips individuals with intellectual disabilities training and leadership tools to become important contributors within their own communities.  

More information, including event registration for each location and participation options, can be found at PlungeWI.org. Pre-registrations are highly encouraged, but on-site day-of registration will also be available.  

Estee E. Scholtz

Editor’s note: The following press release was received from Estee Scholtz for Circuit Court.

ELKHORN, WISCONSIN – Estee E. Scholtz, a lifetime member of Walworth County and former Assistant District Attorney who now serves as Deputy Corporation Counsel in the Walworth County Office of Corporation Counsel has announced that she will seek election to Branch I of the Walworth County Circuit Court upon the retirement of the Honorable Phillip A. Koss.  “Judge Koss has been a mentor for my entire legal career so it would be an honor to fill his seat as the next Walworth County Circuit Court Judge and continue to serve the community, as I have for many years.  I am dedicated to the safety of our Walworth County communities and will work tirelessly to preserve the rights and freedoms afforded by our Constitution.” says Scholtz. 

A Badger for 10 years (four years at Badger High School, four years at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and two years at the University of Wisconsin Law School), and a first-generation college graduate, Scholtz has dedicated her career to public service and has nearly 15 years of litigation experience representing the State of Wisconsin in criminal matters, the County’s interest in mental health and guardianship cases, and the interests of the public in child welfare proceedings. 

In 2018, Scholtz received the Tree House Child and Family Center Service Award for her work in multidisciplinary team meetings for sensitive crimes investigations and for her dedication to the revisions to the Sensitive Crimes Response Team Protocol.  Scholtz has committed over 10 years of her legal career to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community, its children, while also focusing on restoring families when appropriate.  Scholtz has worked alongside law enforcement as a prosecutor, trained law enforcement and social workers locally and across the state, and has presented to fellow attorneys of the Walworth County Bar Association for which she currently serves as President.      

Scholtz has litigated numerous cases in the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, the federal district courts, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit on behalf of Walworth County. “This range of experience is foundational to rendering decisions and following the rule of law in court where each individual before me will be treated with respect, dignity and fairness,” says Scholtz.

Scholtz serves as a Police Commissioner for the Town of Geneva and is an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 24.  She resides in Geneva Township with her husband, Air Force Veteran John Scholtz, and their three children.  She also coaches a youth alpine ski racing program and skis for the Brown’s Lake Aquaducks Waterski Show Team. 

More recently, Scholtz has played an essential role in facilitating the County Board’s American Rescue Plan Act programs which have helped numerous individuals and organizations throughout the County, as well as drafting the contract and lease agreements for the Sheriff’s Office 911 radio communications system project.  She also presides over the Family Treatment Court Program when needed. 

Estee Scholtz is your local candidate who will best serve this community as Circuit Court Judge and asks for your vote in the April 2, 2024 spring election. If needed, a primary election will be held on February 20, 2024.  Estee Scholtz can be reached at EsteeScholtzforJudge@gmail.com. 

Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Unites Lives.

Jim Winship is a WUL Hometown Hero, and he was nominated by The Capital Campaign Committee for the Whitewater Public Library renovation, “For his service as the Chair of the Irvin L. Young Library Expansion and Renovation effort. Jim led the Capital Campaign committee with dedication, care, and creativity. Jim was loud and proud about the needs of the library, mobilizing the whole community who responded with enthusiasm and generosity, swiftly raising $2.3 million, exceeding the original goal of the campaign.”

The Committee shares:  “Jim Winship is a gem in our community. He is committed to improving the lives of all who call Whitewater home.  Jim’s engagement with the City Council, Bethel House, and UW-Whitewater reflects a passion for fostering connections and creating opportunities for people to support one another. If our nomination stopped there, Jim would be deserving of the Hometown Hero award. But with Jim, there’s always more to his service and dedication.

Specifically, we join together to nominate Jim Winship for the Hometown Hero Award for his service as the Chair of the Irvin L. Young Library Expansion and Renovation effort. Jim led the Capital Campaign committee with dedication, care, and creativity. Jim was loud and proud about the needs of the library, mobilizing the whole community who responded with enthusiasm and generosity, swiftly raising $2.3 million, exceeding the original goal of the campaign. Thank you, Jim, for your tireless leadership to improve a trusted and essential community institution. Your genuine love for our town inspires us to be change agents, embracing the role of building a brighter, more resilient future for all.”

The Capital Campaign Committee:

Anne Hartwick
Jon Kachel
Richard Haney
Ginger Katzman
Doug Anderson
Jennifer Motszko
Gayle Stettler
Kelly Davis
Stacey Lunsford
Diane Jaroch

WUL (Whitewater Unites Lives) is a locally-focused civil and human rights group that works to connect the people in our community and to create opportunities for all people to learn and support each other in our common humanity.   

Anyone who would like to nominate a local hero of any age should send their nomination, with a short description, to whitewaterunites@gmail.com 

Editor’s note: The following press release was provided by the Ice Age Trail Alliance.

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is now an official unit of the National Park Service.

Unit status gives the Ice Age National Scenic Trail:

• Official recognition within the National Park Service
• Access to additional funding opportunities
• Equal legal standing with other National Park Service destinations
  
  The administrative change in status was announced during a video press conference on December 7 by National
  Park Service Director, Chuck Sams and U.S. Senator, Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.).
  
  “This is truly momentous for the Ice Age Trail and its thousands of supporters and volunteers,” says Luke Kloberdanz. “Unit status gives the Trail, and its volunteers, the recognition it duly deserves,” he says. “Make no mistake: the Ice Age Trail is world-class and the number of hours Alliance volunteers devote to it consistently rank among the top in all the National Park Service.”
  
  During fiscal year 2023, Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteers dedicated 100,666 hours to Trail-related activities including trailbuilding, maintenance, and outreach.
  
  “Plus, the Trail gets more popular every year. Go out to a segment on a weekend; you’ll see for yourself—people are hiking the Trail like never before.”
  
  An economic impact study completed in late 2019 found that 2.3 million people visited the Ice Age Trail annually; that number has increased since. A new economic impact study is currently underway.
  
  43 Years to Unit Status
  
  Designated as a National Scenic Trail in 1980 by President Jimmy Carter, the Ice Age Trail is 1 of 11 National Scenic Trails in the country; six of which are administered by the National Park Service. Of those six, three trails (Appalachian Trail, Natchez Trace Trail, and Potomac Heritage Trail) were identified as units at the time of their designation. This specification was missing from the wording of the law when the Ice Age Trail, North Country Trail, and New England Trail were designated.
  
  There is no clear reason or policy for the discrepancy in language. However, non-designation had real-world implications for the Trails, including funding opportunity restrictions. It also meant the Trails were not recognized as part of the National Park Service.
  
  “It was quite confusing. On one hand, NPS (the National Park Service) is our administrative partner helping to create the Ice Age Trail. Alliance volunteers go through NPS-required training and report their volunteer hours to NPS,” says Kloberdanz. “But on the other hand, the Ice Age Trail was not allowed to enjoy the same benefits as other units of the Park Service.”
  
  “At last, the Ice Age Trail, North Country Trail, and New England Trail are on equal footing with other National Scenic Trails and National Parks,” he says.
  
  Achieving unit status was a decades-long initiative for the three Trails. The leadership, volunteers, and supporters of the North Country Trail Association, Ice Age Trail Alliance, Appalachian Mountain Club, and Connecticut Forest and Park Association championed the cause.
  
  “The Alliance appreciates the support of its elected officials at the state and federal level. We especially thank Senator Tammy Baldwin for being a stalwart supporter of the Trail since her days in local government and for spearheading the status change at the federal level,” Kloberdanz says. “Thanks also to Director Sams for his efforts and prioritizing the change. We look forward to a continued close relationship with our local NPS partners.”

Editor’s note: The six units that are now designated as NPS National Scenic Trails are:

Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Maine to Georgia (14 states)
Ice Age National Scenic Trail, Wisconsin
Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail, Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee
New England National Scenic Trail, Massachusetts to Connecticut
North Country National Scenic Trail, Vermont to North Dakota (8 states)
Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, District of Columbia, Pennsylvania, and Virginia

About the Ice Age National Scenic Trail:

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile footpath contained entirely within Wisconsin. It traverses the state from St. Croix Falls in the west, to Sturgeon Bay in the east, going as far south as Janesville. One of 11 National Scenic Trails, the Ice Age Trail highlights the landscapes that were carved out by ancient glaciers, which happen to be some of the most beautiful areas in the state. Approximately 60% of Wisconsin residents live within 20 miles of the Ice Age Trail.

About the Ice Age Trail Alliance:

The Ice Age Trail Alliance is the nonprofit, member- and volunteer-based organization which conserves, creates, maintains, and promotes the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. It consists of 19 volunteer chapters, spread across the length of the Trail. For more information visit IceAgeTrail.org.