It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
For our last image of the historic East Side School, we present this view of the old school with the new wing completed in 1955. The “baby boom” resulted in much school construction, including a new west side elementary school in 1953 and a new high school in 1959. Around 1961, the elementary schools were given new names and this building became the Washington School. Then, in 1966, the old section of the building was demolished and a new central core building was attached to the 1955 wing. Finally, around 2002, the 1955 wing was demolished in favor of a modern wing and the school, as it exists mostly today, resulted.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
MANCHESTER, NH – Jessica Ellifritz of Delavan (53190) has been named to Southern New Hampshire University‘s Summer 2024 Dean’s List. The summer terms run from May to August.
Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.500 to 3.699 for the reporting term are named to the Dean’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.
MANCHESTER, NH – Madelyn Fosen of Whitewater (53190) has been named to Southern New Hampshire University‘s (SNHU) Summer 2024 President’s List. The summer terms run from May to August.
Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with a 92-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 200,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH. Recognized as one of the “Most Innovative” regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner.
Gov. Evers Orders Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Staff Sgt. Ralph H. Bode Who Lost His Life in WWII
Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #241 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, in honor of U.S. Army Air Force Staff Sgt. Ralph H. Bode, who lost his life in World War II and whose remains have been identified and returned to Wisconsin for burial.
“Staff Sergeant Bode selflessly gave his life fighting for the freedoms of his fellow Americans and our allies abroad,” said Gov. Evers. “It is an honor to be able to help welcome him back to Wisconsin after 80 years, where he can finally be laid to rest in his hometown of Racine.”
A native of Racine, Staff Sgt. Bode was a member of the 700th Bombardment Squadron, 445th Bombardment Group, 2nd Air Division, 8th Air Force in the European Theater during World War II. On Sept. 27, 1944, Staff Sgt. Bode’s aircraft was shot down while on a bombing mission over Kassel, Germany, and a finding of death was issued by the U.S. War Department on Sept. 28, 1945. In 1951, the American Graves Registration Command recovered remains from the crash site and interred them at the Luxembourg American Cemetery in Luxembourg and the North African American Cemetery in Tunisia. Staff Sgt. Bode’s remains were positively identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency on Dec. 26, 2023.
Staff Sgt. Bode will be buried on Fri., Sept. 27, 2024, in Racine.
5k First Place male and female with Patrick Singer, Common Council president
Half Marathon female winners with Patrick Singer, Common Council president
Half Marathon male winners with Patrick Singer, Common Council president [Submitted photos]
The Greater Whitewater Committee (GWC)’s 12th annual Discover Whitewater Series (DWS): Half Marathon, Half Marathons Teams, and 5k was a smashing success raising money for local charities.
This year’s DWS brought in over 452 participants, 250 volunteers and nearly 70 sponsors. The DWS team was thrilled to welcome 450 runners from so many different states other than Wisconsin. The weather was cooler and rainy for the runners, with a temperature of 68 degrees.
Common Council President Patrick Singer arrived at the race bright and early to give the welcoming remarks and wished all of the participants a great race day.
Congratulations to all of our runners, toughing it out even during a rainstorm! A special shout out to all of our top placing racers!
As runners ventured through the course, they got to experience some of Whitewater’s finest features. The DWS team was proud to welcome new and returning participants alike. Thanks to all of the hard work of our amazing volunteers and sponsors, the 12th Annual DWS proved once again, to achieve its mission of bringing people together in support of a good cause.
All proceeds will be distributed to the DWS’ four charity partners: Whitewater LEADS, Bethel House of Whitewater, UW Whitewater Foundation Athletics, and the J-Hawk’s Aquatic club. Runners and volunteers joined together after the race to celebrate the day’s accomplishments, enjoying a free beverage from bronze sponsor 841 Brewhouse.
Congratulations to John Dewitt for setting a new record at this year’s DWS. His time was 1:07:27. Even with these weather conditions he did an amazing job. John Dewitt competed in the Olympic trials for the marathon in summer of 2023; we are so glad to have him participate in the Discover Whitewater Series.
“I want to congratulate John Dewitt, breaking the record in these weather conditions is super impressive,” said Race Director, Dawson Miller, “We are so glad to see him come back for the fourth year in a row.”
Kids Korral Near start of Half Marathon: John Dewitt (L)Near start of Half Marathon Near start of Half Marathon Paul Taylor, Whitewater, running 5kHeidi Mane, Whitewater, First Place female 5kRoberto Navejas (middle), Whitewater, 5kRyan Oezer, Whitewater, 5kHalf Marathon Half Marathon Jason Flood, Whitewater, Half Marathon
Photo gallery courtesy of Tom Ganser
The DWS team would like to thank all who came out in support of the race. The entire community has been a part of such an amazing event that has greatly helped charities across Whitewater.
About the DWS
The goal of the DWS is to promote the City of Whitewater and highlight its greatest features, while keeping everyone in the community active. All the proceeds from the race are donated to local non-profit partners: Bethel House (which
provides interim housing for homeless families), Whitewater LEADS, Working for Whitewater’s Wellness (W3), and the J-Hawk Aquatic Club. The DWS partners with the city, business community, and university to make this a tremendous event that benefits all who participate. For more information about the race visit www.runwhitewater.com.
Mrs. Susan Mary Gebhardt-Schweitzer, 88, Whitewater, Wisconsin passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at the Fairhaven Residential Facility.
Susan was born on August 22, 1936 in Racine, Wisconsin to the parents F. Don & Georgia Gebhardt. Susan attended William Horlick High School and graduated in 1955. Susan married Thomas J. Larsen in Racine on June 29, 1957 before moving to Cicero, Illinois and having 3 children, Thomas, Steven, and Linda. During her time in Illinois, Susan became an EMT working in the emergency room at Alexian Brothers Medical Center. Later in life, Susan met Edward Joseph Schweitzer and they were happily married on May 30, 1988 in Roselle, Illinois. After selling their house in Fox Lake, Illinois in 2014, Susan and Edward moved back to Wisconsin residing at Fairhaven Residential Facility.
Susan is survived by her loving husband of 26 years Edward Joseph Schweitzer, brother Richard F. Gebhardt, son Steven R Larsen, daughter Linda S Olson, and 3 grandchildren.
Tom Ganser writes, “By total chance, I happened for a first time to see this flushing of a fire hydrant on Esterly Avenue where I have lived for 33 years. Pure fun to see.”
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As was previously posted to The Banner:
The Water Utility will begin its semi-annual water main and hydrant flushing program on Monday, September 23, through Friday, September 27, 2024.
Flushing of water mains is necessary to test the hydrants to make sure adequate flow and pressure is available. It also confirms the fire hydrants and valves are operating correctly. In addition, it enhances water quality by removing sediment from the pipes in order to maintain water clarity and quality in the distribution pipes.
Occasionally, water becomes discolored after hydrant flushing. If this happens turn on an outside spigot or a cold water tap, in the lowest level of your home, for a few minutes until the water clears. If it doesn’t clear the first time, wait a few minutes and run the water again. You may want to wait until the crew has left the area and the water settles down before running your water tap.
Additionally, caution should be exercised in washing of white clothing. Discoloration of water, due to flushing, WILL stain white clothing. Therefore, you should avoid washing clothes until the water clears.
If the Water Utility crew experiences more repairs than expected throughout the week, flushing may continue into the following week. Thank you for your patience and understanding during water main and hydrant flushing.
Jim Bergner, Superintendent Water Utility jbergner@whitewater-wi.gov (262) 473-0560
Walworth County Treasurer Valerie Etzel announces that the sale of county-owned properties will be conducted by Wisconsin Surplus Online Auction and will take place beginning on Wednesday, September 25th, and concluding on Wednesday, October 9th, at 10:00 AM.
Please visit www.wisconsinsurplus.com for a complete listing of properties for sale and information on how to bid. Properties are located in the towns of Bloomfield, East Troy and Troy and the city of Elkhorn. Specific questions may be directed to the County Treasurer’s Office from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, 262-741-4251, email treasurer@co.walworth.wi.us, or visit the Walworth County website at www.co.walworth.wi.us.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Pride Inc.
Whitewater’s fourth annual Pride Rally promises to be the biggest and best yet. This free, family-friendly celebration takes place on Saturday, October 5 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Cravath Lakefront Park in downtown Whitewater.
The Pride Rally will include activities for children, adults, and even the family pets, all in support of our LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors, with a focus on high school and college students. The events include music, performances, over 30 vendors, and several food trucks. Speakers include City Manager, John Weidl; UW-Whitewater Chancellor, Dr. Corey A. King; Whitewater High School’s Associate Principal, Kate McNulty; and Fair Wisconsin’s Policy and Advocacy Director, Sean O’Brien, who will discuss the state of the LGBTQ+ movement locally and nationally.
“Since 2021, Whitewater Pride has been creating a jubilant safe space for our community to truly celebrate their unique selves,” said Camden Harlan, President of Whitewater Pride Inc. “We are incredibly fortunate to have the support of our city, local businesses, schools, and community members. With their advocacy and agency, we have been able to fund field trips and scholarships for LGBTQ+ youth in our community, as well as provide inclusive events throughout the year where the LGBTQ+ community and allies come together and know just how loved and appreciated they are.”
Camden Harlan and Ginny Coburn at Whitewater Pride in 2023
Whitewater Pride T-shirts will be on sale at the event for $15. These T-shirts bear the Whitewater Pride logo, designed by UW-Whitewater student, Maddy Albanese. Colored fabric markers will be available to individualize the shirts on site.
A children’s corner will include activities and story time with a selection of LGBTQ+ children’s books.
Your pets are also invited to attend and participate in the third annual Pride Pet Costume Contest. Registration will take place from 11:00-11:30 a.m. on the day of the event. For the safety of your pets and others, please make sure all pets are leashed and comfortable with crowds.
Whitewater Pride is proud to announce official sponsors of the Pride Rally who have contributed financially to help support our local LGBTQ+ community. This year’s sponsors are: The Coburn Family, Generac, Whitewater Unites Lives, TDS Telecom, Stellar Vintage, Botanica Beauty Parlour, Fort HealthCare, and Fort Community Credit Union, The Dem Party of Wisconsin, and T-Mobile of Lake Geneva.
“These community partners are not only providing financial support to the work of Whitewater Pride, but they are also standing proud with our LGBTQ+ community members and allies. This statement of support reinforces the values of our communities that all are welcomed, valued, and embraced,” Kim Simes said.
Others wishing to support Whitewater Pride can visit whitewaterpride.org to become a Sponsor, Vendor, or Donor.
Event supporters include Whitewater High School GSA, PB Poorman Pride Center, Irvin L. Young Memorial Library, City of Whitewater, Whitewater Unites Lives, The Book Teller, The Sweet Spot, UW-W CARE, and Whitewater League of Women Voters. For more information visit www.whitewaterpride.org, Instagram @whitewaterpride, or Facebook at Whitewater Pride
Congratulations to Walworth County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management Lieutenant Jason Rowland on his graduation from the 291st FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, on Thursday, September 12th, 2024. Lieutenant Rowland was chosen to represent our department as part of a select group of 254 law enforcement officers from 26 countries, seven military organizations, and seven federal civilian agencies.
The FBI National Academy is a prestigious program consisting of 10 weeks of advanced training in communication, leadership, and fitness. Since its inception in 1935, a total of 55,440 graduates have completed the academy, which is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico—the same facility where new FBI special agents and intelligence analysts are trained.
We extend our gratitude to the FBI National Academy for selecting our agency for this opportunity and congratulate Lieutenant Rowland on his remarkable accomplishment.
Our agency is proud to have three current command staff members as graduates of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy.
Sheriff Dave Gerber – Session 263 Undersheriff Tom Hausner – Session 177
Editor’s note: The above press release was received from the Walworth County Sheriff’s Department.
