News

There is no mail delivery on Wednesday, June 19 due to the celebration of Juneteenth.

Per Wikipedia, “Juneteenth (officially Juneteenth National Independence Day) is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Deriving its name from combining June and nineteenth, it is celebrated on the anniversary of the order by Major General Gordon Granger proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas on June 19, 1865 (two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued).^[7] Originating in Galveston, Juneteenth has since been observed annually in various parts of the United States, often broadly celebrating African-American culture. The day was first recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law after the efforts of Lula Briggs Galloway, Opal Lee, and others.”

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order Raising Flag at State Capitol in Celebration of Juneteenth

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today signed Executive Order #230, raising the Juneteenth Flag for the fifth year in a row over the Wisconsin State Capitol in celebration of Juneteenth.  Gov. Evers also proclaimed June 19, 2024, as “Juneteenth” throughout the state of Wisconsin. A copy of the governor’s 2024 Juneteenth proclamation is available here. “I will always be proud to raise the Juneteenth Flag and to help celebrate Juneteenth, the countless contributions of Black Wisconsinites both past and present, and the stronger, brighter future we are building together,” said Gov. Evers. “Raising the Juneteenth Flag sends a message that here in Wisconsin, we celebrate Black history, culture, and resilience, we believe our differences and our diversity make us stronger, and we are committed to building a state that is more just and more equitable.” On June 19, 1865, more than two and half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to declare the end of slavery. In the nearly 160 years since, June 19th has been known as Juneteenth and is one of the oldest and most popular annual commemorations of the end of slavery in the United States. The Juneteenth Flag features a star to represent Texas, the Lone Star State; a nova, or new star, representing a new beginning and the freedom of African Americans; the curve on the flag dividing the red and blue colors representing a “new horizon” and a future of “opportunities and promise” for Black Americans; and red, white, and blue colors, reminding us that people who were enslaved and their descendants shall be “forever free.” In 2020, Gov. Evers ordered the Juneteenth Flag to be flown at the State Capitol for the first time in state history. Juneteenth is formally recognized and celebrated in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with Wisconsin joining as the 32nd state to recognize this day in 2009. In 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, making Juneteenth a federal holiday.   The Juneteenth Flag will temporarily replace the Progress Pride Flag through Wednesday at sunset in celebration of Juneteenth but will otherwise not disrupt other flags that regularly fly over the State Capitol building. The U.S. flag and Wisconsin state flag will continue flying on the East Wing flagpole above the Juneteenth Flag. The POW-MIA flag will continue flying on the North Wing flagpole as it does every day.   Executive Order #230 is available here and is in effect beginning Tues., June 18, 2024, until sunset on Wed., June 19, 2024.

Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by  khema sok from Pixabay.

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

In the “good old days,” which ended just a few months ago, a person wanting to have a last minute birthday card delivered to a local resident on the next delivery day could stop at our postal counter and ask for a local postmark. That mail was sorted locally. It was one of those small town touches that was appreciated. Those days are gone now. A customer may still request a local postmark, but the mail leaves the city for processing.

According to Government Executive, USPS has in recent months been gradually rolling out an optimization plan which is part of “Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s 10-year Delivering for America plan that it says will make the agency more efficient and eliminate its annual deficits.” Among the changes is a delay in the transporting of outgoing mail from rural offices to the processing center.

The collection boxes at the city’s post office indicate a “collection time” of 5 p.m. on weekdays and 4 p.m. on Saturday. Previously the mail left the city within minutes after those times for the Oak Creek Distribution Center, south of Milwaukee. Per local postal employees, now the mail that’s deposited by the collection time, as well as mail that’s picked up during local deliveries, sits overnight in the local post office and is picked up when the incoming mail is delivered at approximately 6 a.m. A truck pays another visit to Whitewater at approximately 11 a.m. to pick up packages that have been mailed that morning. Strangely, this pickup does not include Express Mail, which sits in the post office until the next morning.

The Delivering for America plan has a goal of 95% on-time delivery. According to parcelandpostaltechnologyinternational.com, “The United States Postal Service (USPS) latest delivery performance metrics for the third week of the second quarter for fiscal year 2024 have revealed it did not meet its 95% on-time service performance target laid out in its Delivering For America initiative. The postal operator achieved 84% on-time delivery for first-class mail, 92.1% for marketing mail and 80.6% for periodicals for the period January 1-19. These figures were down compared to the first fiscal quarter of 2024; the average time for USPS to deliver a mailpiece or package across the nation was 2.8 days.”

The cost of mailing a one ounce first class letter with a postage stamp increased from 66 to 68 cents effective January 21, 2024. The same piece with metered postage goes for 64 cents. Effective July 14, 2024 the same first class letter will increase to 73 cents (69 cents for metered mail). Forever stamps may be purchased at the current 68 cent rate through July 13, and as the name implies, they may be used indefinitely in spite of future rate increases. Details on the cost of other services may be viewed here.

Copy by Elizabeth Bols
Photos by Tom Ganser at the practice session on June 12

In a heartwarming initiative, pageant practice has begun for the 27 registered contestants in the annual Miss Whitewater Pageant. The pageant nurtures talent, builds confidence, and rallies support for veterans in need. Hosted by Miss Whitewater Pageant, these practices serve a dual purpose of empowering participants while raising funds for veterans’ causes.

With a deep sense of gratitude for their service and sacrifice, the Miss Whitewater Pageant is channeling the enthusiasm of pageant enthusiasts towards a noble cause. All proceeds from the pageant will directly benefit veterans and their families, providing essential support for their well-being.

“The Miss Whitewater Pageant is honored to stand in solidarity with our veterans,” says Elizabeth Bols, Director of Miss Whitewater Pageant. “Through this practice, we are not only shaping the future of our community but also making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who have served our country.”

Participants, mentors, and supporters alike are joining hands to raise awareness and funds for veterans’ causes, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie that transcends the boundaries of the stage.

Miss Whitewater Pageant extends a warm invitation to individuals and businesses passionate about supporting veterans to join this heartfelt endeavor and make a difference in the lives of those who have bravely served our nation. All contestants are selling raffle tickets and ad space for the program.

The 2024 Miss Whitewater Pageant will be held Wednesday, July 3rd at 5:30 p.m. at the Frawley Lakefront Pavilion.

For more information on how to participate or contribute to this fundraising initiative, please get in touch with Elizabeth Bols at Misswhitewaterpageant@yahoo.com.

Join us to raise funds for the Warhawks Give Fund, supporting various programs and initiatives at UW-Whitewater. The Fund the Future Online Auction features a diverse range of items donated by generous Warhawk alumni, individuals and businesses, offering something for everyone to bid on and enjoy. Your participation will make a real difference and support the greatest needs across our campuses! Thank you for your support.

Link: https://live.classy.org/register/uwwonlineauction/0dabc671-e40f-456c-892f-c9320b20bbbe

Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater Foundation.

This Thursday, June 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m,, the Savory Sounds Summer Concerts begin with Peggy Mueller & Friends.  Dressed in traditional German garb, Peggy Mueller & Friends offer German folk music accompanied by acoustic guitar, concertina, and assorted rhythm instruments.  They perform regularly at the Old German Beer Hall in Milwaukee.  Our vendor this week to help follow the German Folk Fest theme is Annie’s Burgertown, a popular food truck from Elkhorn, offering a selection of German and American food.

This week’s band is sponsored by Fairhaven. 

• Location: Flat Iron Park (next to the Birge Fountain), 402 W Main St, Whitewater.
• Rain or Shine: Normally held outdoors on the lawn; in the event of rain, the concerts are moved indoors to the Cultural Arts Center.
• Seating: Bring your lawn chairs and/or blankets but if the concert gets moved indoors you won’t need them.
• Food & Refreshments: Food and other refreshments will be available from the food vendor or bring your own lunch.
• Parking: CAC lot and city street parking is available with additional parking available at First English Lutheran Church.

Our sponsors for the summer series are:  

Dear WHS Band Alumni,

For the 26th year, we will be putting together an alumni band for the July 4 parade. If you’re going to be in this part of the country for the holiday, please consider joining us! I know that some of you have been playing professionally while others haven’t touched it since graduation – ALL are welcome!  Instrument loans are available as are fingering charts! No marching is involved, we’ll be sitting on a flatbed truck!

There will be no rehearsal, but if you want to see the music ahead of time I can email scans to you. Our “uniform” for the parade consists of ANY WHS Band T-shirt and AT LEAST one other article of clothing. (I just happen to have some pretty nifty WHS Band shirts still available at the low price of $5)  Or just wear something red.

The parade starts at 10 AM this year, the normal time. We’ll plan to meet at Lincoln Elementary School (Prince St. between Highland and Walworth) around that time although we will be near the end of the parade. Do not attempt to drive up Prince Street that morning; best bet for close parking is in the Middle School (old HS) lot off Elizabeth Street.  Drummers talk to me about the best way to get your equipment onto the truck.

For added incentive, there will be the traditional gathering at the beer tent after the parade.  (OK, soda for you recent alumni)

PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU’RE COMING so I know how many chairs, stands & copies of music we need.  Also, please forward this to any other WHS Band Alumni you know from any decade – my list of email addresses is far from complete.

Hope to see you there!

Dr Don W Deal [WHS Band Director 1979-2012 and again in 2020]

drddeal@gmail.com

Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Bethel House.

Bethel House, a local ecumenical nonprofit organization focused on homelessness prevention, is celebrating 30 years of local service in 2024.

“For the past 30 years, Bethel House has provided unwavering support to prevent homelessness for children and families in the greater Whitewater area. As a small, grassroots nonprofit supported through the generosity of local individuals, businesses, churches, and organizations, Bethel House has epitomized the impact of the collective power of a community,” states Jessie Dugan, Bethel House Board Chair. “To celebrate these influential 30 years, we’ll reflect on who and what brought us here, highlight the strength of our critical work today, and look ahead to strategically plan how we can continue to support families for the next 30 years.”

To honor this 30th anniversary year, Bethel House has released a video highlighting its local impact work, which can be found on its website at www.bethelhouseinc.org. The organization has also launched a new 30th Anniversary campaign donation page, with a goal to raise $3,000.

“We are excited to launch our new campaign pages, providing donors an easy way to directly support different Bethel House initiatives,” states Megan Hartwick, Bethel House Executive Director. “We’ve set a goal of $3,000 for our 30th Anniversary, which we hope can be achieved by 100 community members donating $30 towards our mission.”

The 30th Anniversary campaign donation page can be found at https://app.dvforms.net/api/dv/AR1eP or via the Bethel House website. 

Over the next six months, community members can also expect to see features on the organization’s founding members, quotes from current board members, and success stories from clients shared on the Bethel House social media pages. The organization will also release a new website later this summer to communicate its programs and support options more effectively.

“We’re really eager to spend this 30th anniversary year better messaging our work, both to our supporters and potential new donors and to families who can benefit from our services,” adds Hartwick. “We look forward to recognizing the key stakeholders who have played a crucial role in developing the version of Bethel House we all know today and will share details about how our support is truly changing the lives of children and families in our community. We hope our communities learn more about what we do and consider lending their support through a donation and/or investing in our upcoming Fall Dinner fundraiser.”

Coming off of a very successful 2nd Annual Spring Raffle Fundraiser, having increased fundraising efforts by over 40% from the 1st annual event, Bethel House leadership is focused on increasing fundraising levels for the annual Fall Dinner, setting a goal to raise $30,000 from the event to coincide with the milestone anniversary year.

“The Bethel House Fall Dinner has become a critical fundraiser for our organization and is considered a must-attend event amongst our supporters,” Dugan states. “Last year’s event raised just over $27,000 to support our mission and local impact. Our event committee has set an ambitious goal to raise $30,000 at this year’s dinner, as we’re hopeful our already generous community of givers will lend additional support during this celebratory year.”

The 2024 Fall Dinner will be held on Friday, November 1st, at 6 p.m. at Staller Winery. Full details for sponsorship and ticket sales will be released later this summer.

In addition to attending the Fall Dinner, community members can support Bethel House in a number of ways. The organization accepts donations for an in-office toiletry pantry and household and furniture items to help furnish its seven housing units. For specific needs at any given time or to coordinate the delivery of items, please contact the Bethel House Director of Case Management, Sydney Johnson, at casemanager.bethelhouse@gmail.com or by calling 262.473.2715.

“While monetary donations keep our organization financially supported, and item donations help support the daily lives of our housed families, our organization is also always looking for volunteer support,” Hartwick states. “Volunteers provide invaluable support in helping prepare our houses for new children and families and turn them into furnished, comfortable places for them to call home. Those interested in lending a few hours for light cleaning, moving furniture, painting, and more can simply complete our online volunteer interest form to be added to our outreach list.” 

Those interested in volunteering can visit http://www.bethelhouseinc.org/volunteer.html to complete the online volunteer interest form.

“Bethel House is honored to serve our communities and for the opportunity to help keep local families in their homes and their children stable in their schools,” Hartwick states. “Our programs are vital to the stability of many families in our community, and we are humbled by the generous investments that continue to be made in our mission. We hope that support continues to grow throughout this 30th anniversary year, allowing us to serve even more children and families.”

For questions about Bethel Houses’ anniversary, program offerings, or how to lend support, please contact director.bethelhouse@gmail.com or 262.473.2715. Monetary donations can be mailed to 133 S. Franklin Street – Whitewater, WI 53190.

Promotion of the 30th anniversary will continue throughout 2024.

Bethel House is an ecumenical project that helps families facing homelessness in the Whitewater area. It provides transitional housing, emergency financial assistance, and case management to families in need.

Bethel House utilizes seven private housing units where families can live for up to one year while working on the issues that led to their homelessness. Case management services include budgeting, debt repayment, job searching, resume creation and building, life skills and decision-making, accessing other community resources and services, and much more.

Bethel House services are provided to clients free of charge and with understanding and compassion. Clients are always treated with the dignity and respect we all deserve. For more details, visit www.bethelhouseing.org or call 262.473.2715.

Updated 6/17 @ 10 a.m. – To show that Library Board has no meeting this week; also, a new link has been provided for the Common Council agenda, which now includes the full packet for the meeting.
Updated 6/17 @ 4:30 p.m. – To add details of Community Development Authority Board of Directors meeting.

City of Whitewater Police and Fire Commission – Monday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda: Adjourn to Closed Session, TO RECONVENE, Items to be discussed: Interview of FTE EMT/Firefighter Candidate(s)
Interview of Patrol Officer Candidate
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/452732173
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 452-732-173
United States: +1 (224) 501-3412

Irvin L. Library Board of Trustees – UPDATE: No meeting this month.

Whitewater Unified School District Policy Review Committee – Tuesday @ 11:30 a.m.
Agenda (Click on “meetings” in upper right corner)
Whitewater Unified School District Central Office
419 South Elizabeth Street

City of Whitewater Alcohol Licensing Committee – Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda
Whitewater Municipal Building Cravath Lakefront
Room 2nd Floor, 312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82377911249?pwd=wF6tZnRg_p8a3P1J1blt383vI6S1_Q.VDwVWxxVu7hhxxu6
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799
Webinar ID: 823 7791 1249
Passcode: 374100

City of Whitewater Common Council – Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Levying special assessments for the North Side Water Main Project, Discussion and Possible Action to reconsider award of the Cravath & Trippe Lakes Mechanical Dredging of Cattail to Eco Waterway Services, Discussion and Possible Action to consider awarding the Cravath & Trippe Lakes Mechanical Dredging of Cattail to RLP Diversified, INC
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81256634296?pwd=hnOmVYaV4X9rjiHyRMPVUR9Ewkislg.yO_Nwnrk57Nvmk8g
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 812 5663 4296
Passcode: 023286

City of Whitewater Lakes Advisory Committee – Wednesday @ 3:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible action regarding creation of a Lakes District
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85488944447?pwd=mmTaaVOxCbNYLFzUWynN7TizJ74Da0.1
Meeting ID: 854 8894 4447
Passcode: 384266
Dial +1 312 626 6799 US

City of Whitewater Finance Committee – Wednesday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Presentation of the 2023 Annual Financial Report — Johnson Block
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 W. Whitewater St.
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
You are invited to a Zoom webinar.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85923342974
Or One tap mobile :
+16469313860,,85923342974# US
Or Telephone:
+1 312 626 6799

City of Whitewater Parks & Recreation Board – Wednesday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West
Whitewater St
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89856835590?pwd=5wlh0pyWNQvxavSYqnalKKfpuOz3T2.1
Meeting ID: 898 5683 5590
Passcode: 580218
Or dial +1 312 626 6799

City of Whitewater Community Development Authority Board of Directors – Thursday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Response to the Request for Proposals (RFP)
Response wo engage Legal Counsel for the CDA, Discussion and possible action with respect to amendment to Ordinance 5.28 regarding Mobile Food Establishments, and Staff Update Regarding Why Meeper Loan Was Written Off.
Board of Directors Meeting (In-Person & Virtual)
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83987884868?pwd=G22fVyukan23JZ2DZJ6LHffOyFSe8A.CBR60QIyfP2Kw1OS
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 839 8788 4868
Passcode: 733838