News

UW-W Garden & Landscape Tours are Back this Summer

Note: The deadline for registration for the prairie tours on July 8 & 10 is Thursday, July 1 at noon. The deadline for the garden tours is the Monday prior to the tour.

2021 Prairie and Landscape Tours

Looking for a safe and active way to enjoy the outdoors? Want to learn more about native and sustainable landscapes and ways to incorporate the practices in your gardening? Join us for free guided tours of the UW-Whitewater prairie and campus gardens! UW-Whitewater Continuing Education is pleased to offer tours of the prairie and nature preserve and campus landscapes and gardens throughout the season. Wes Enterline, UW-Whitewater’s sustainability director, will lead the tours.

All tours are free with registration and open to the public. These are walking tours with low activity levels and are held rain or shine, unless severe weather warnings are issued. Tours are limited to 8 participants. Walk-up registrations are not accepted. Tours may be available virtually, and information on how to access virtual tour will be provided in advance.

Prairie Tours: Plants and Plans for the UW-Whitewater Nature Preserve

Over 100 acres on the campus’s northwestern border have been restored and actively managed as a native prairie and nature preserve. Learn more about the diverse array of native plant species in the prairie and savanna ecosystems and observe them during this first peak of the growing season.

Plants and Plans for the UW-Whitewater Nature Preserve: Thursday, July 8, 6:00 – 7:00 pm

Plants and Plans for the UW-Whitewater Nature Preserve: Saturday, July 10, 9:00 – 10:00 am

Campus Core Garden Tours:

Explore the many gardens and natural spaces tucked between our campus buildings. In addition to providing information about the annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees in our landscapes around campus and the sustainability practices we use, this year will feature additional details about campus history on all three tours too!

History of the Whitewater Normal School Grounds: Thursday, August 5, 6:00 – 7:30 pm

This tour will visit the Salisbury and Chopp Arboretums, Memory Garden, Hyer Hall, Halverson Log Cabin, and Little Red Schoolhouse, which are all on the original grounds of the Normal School. This year we will provide an exclusive sneak peek inside the Log Cabin and Schoolhouse!

Gardens and Trees of the South Campus Core: Thursday, August 12, 6:00 – 7:30 pm

This tour will focus on trees and landscape beds near Andersen Library, Heide Hall, University Center, the South Wyman Mall, Hyer Hall, Salisbury Arboretum, Roseman Building, and Minnieska Springs.

Gardens and Trees of the North Campus Core: Thursday, August 19, 6:00 – 7:30 pm

The final tour of the summer will explore the campus vegetable garden as well as trees and landscape beds near Moraine Hall, Hyland Hall, Upham Hall, Winther Hall, Minnieska Springs, and White Hall.

Contact Continuing Education at 262-472-1100 with questions.

The Luna Project – Supporting Two Organizations That Transform Lives in Very Different Ways

The completed painting
 Mila Holcombe working on the painting (Studio 84 photo submissions)

The Luna Project

A fundraiser to support two extraordinary organizations that transform lives in very different ways.

Two organizations, two different approaches and missions. Yet interconnected with a common goal of transforming lives. The Luna Project brings together art and counseling to raise awareness and funds to support New Beginnings and Studio 84.

Studio 84 artists have created a collaborative painting depicting the Luna Moth, which is a symbol in some cultures of rebirth, renewal, transformation and regeneration. The painting is destined to be displayed at the New Beginnings center where clients can view it and be inspired by its message. View a video about the project at https://youtu.be/bKg3YfONS0Q

New Beginnings is located in Elkhorn and Whitewater with a mission to provide supportive services and advocacy for adult and child victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment and human trafficking.

Studio 84 supports people with disabilities and brings about transformation with increased self-esteem, independence and a sense of belonging through the development of their creative side through the arts.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will support both organizations. Donate online at www.studio84inc.org or mail donation to Studio 84, 121 W Center St. Whitewater, WI 53190

Source: Studio 84 press release

School Board: Adam Bretl Introduced as New Lakeview Principal (UPDATED from WUSD press release)

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

Adam Bretl (photo from Facebook page)

At its regular meeting on June 28 the Whitewater Unified School Board approved the hiring of Adam Bretl as Principal of Lakeview Elementary School, effective July 1. The position was open due to the resignation at the end of the school year of David Brokopp, who took the position of Superintendent of the Bangor School District.

Bretl was appointed Assistant Principal of the Elkhorn Area Middle School in 2013; currently his title has been Associate Principal. According to his Facebook page he grew up in Sturgeon Bay and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education from UW-Oshkosh in 2008, after which he taught 7th and 8th grade science, social studies, and reading in a Janesville middle school. Bretl briefly addressed the board, indicating that he is married and has two children, age 6 and 2. He indicated that he had hoped to work in more of a country setting, so he saw Lakeview as a great fit, and is excited to meet the students and parents.

UPDATE: According to a press release from WUSD, Bretl earned a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership in 2011. It is indicated that the District Leadership Team selected a slate of eight potential candidates from a field of 47 applicants. Bretl was the administration’s recommendation after two panel interviews, a student tour, and staff presentation. Superintendent Pate-Hefty stated, “Adam brings us a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience in school administration. He will be an excellent instructional leader for our Lakeview students, their families and staff.”

Bretl was quoted as saying, “It is a great honor to be selected as the Principal of Lakeview Elementary. My priority has always been and will continue to be providing the best educational experience for all students. The Lakeview community is a unique piece of paradise that offers so much to its students. I’m excited for many years of learning and growing together to ensure Lakeview students continue to grow and achieve at exceptional levels.”

Lakeview families will be able to meet Mr. Bretl on August 10 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Lakeview Elementary, during Back-to-School Day.

In other business:

  • Superintendent Caroline Pate-Hefty reported that after considerable research with other districts that directly provide virtual education, the district decided not to move forward with instituting such a program at this time. The agreement with JEDI will continue. The organization was paid $430,000 for this past year, much more than usual.
  • Mary Kilar, Lincoln Elementary principal and Tom Grosinske, Washington Elementary principal, reported on the achievement of reading and math goals for the past school year. At both schools there was a goal that 85% of the students would make a year’s worth of growth in instructional reading level. At Lincoln, 86% of the students made one or more years’ growth in reading. Many made 1.5 to 3 years of progress. At Washington the percentage making at least a year’s growth was 30% in kindergarten, 72% in first grade, 79% in second and fifth grade, and 88% in 3rd and 4th grade. For math there was a goal of 60% against a national average; 47.2% of students at Lincoln met the goal. Washington reported that the average student levels were very close to the national grade level scores.
  • There were 144 graduates from the high school, and the weather was beautiful. Moving next year’s graduation to Friday evening may be considered.
  • Pate-Hefty stated that summer school “is fun in Wisconsin,” not as in Illinois. 609 students are enrolled this year, versus 239 last year and 629 in 2019.
  • Matthew Sylvester-Knudtson, Director of Business Services, reported that he expects approximately a $150,000 general fund balance as of the end of the school year. The fund balance is currently at 18.1% of budget, and should rise slightly after a small contribution.
  • Nelson Bus was granted a 2.5% increase for ’20-21 and 2.0% for ’21-22.
  • The district’s annual contribution to the Aquatic & Fitness Center’s budget has been $128,000 since 2016. A new five year agreement was approved, with a $153,000 expense in the upcoming year and $178,000 per year for the following four years.
  • The purchase of 35 classroom projectors was approved, as was the purchase of new wrestling mats for both the middle and high school.
  • Heard of the plans for donor level recognitions for synthetic turf and other improvements to the football field at the high school.
  • Discussed hard-to-fill positions, including EL (English learner) and special education teachers. Currently there are four open EL positions. It was agreed to offer to pay the cost of the CESA 2 EL licensure course for existing employees with an emergency license, and to offer a $3,000 “signing bonus” for a new employee who is already licensed, with a two year employment commitment.

The meeting ended at 10:30 p.m.

Brian Halbach, WHS ’10, a “Hired Hacker,” Featured on Nightline

PHOTO: Brian Halbach, a security consultant at RedTeam Security, tells "Nightline" about his work helping companies defend themselves from cyberattacks.
Brian Halbach (ABC News photo)

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

No, Brian Halbach, a WHS ‘10 grad, is not working for a Russian ransomware group; actually his mission is to help companies test their cybersecurity in order to avoid being one of the next victims. With recent well publicized cyberattacks on companies such as Colonial Pipeline, security consultants called “red teams” are hired by firms to probe their defenses before cybercriminals get the chance.

A recent Nightline segment, “Inside the secretive world of hackers who help protect companies from attacks,” featured Halbach and one of his associates.

Also featuring Halbach was an article on ABC News, “Cybersecurity experts break down a cyberattack as they become increasing threat,” dated June 9.

Whitewater Historical Society Depot Museum Reopens July 3

In conjunction with the Whitewater Area 4th of July Festival, the Whitewater Historical Society Depot Museum of local history will reopen to the public on Saturday, July 3, 2021, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Museum is located at 301 West Whitewater Street, next to Cravath Lakefront Park. Admission is free, and people of all ages are welcome to visit the newly installed exhibits. Open hours will continue throughout the summer on Saturdays from 10 a.m. -1 p.m. 

The Whitewater Historical Society collects, preserves, and interprets the history of Whitewater and the surrounding area. Please “like” us on Facebook, and check out our website at whitewaterhistoricalsociety.org!

Article Submitted by Elizabeth A. Farrey
Collections & Outreach Manager, Whitewater Historical Society
Public Relations & Newsletter Coordinator, League of Women Voters – Whitewater Area
FarreyEA24@uww.edu

Fort Library Announces July Programs, Including BUSeum Tour

July Programs for Adults at the Dwight Foster Library

BUSeum Tour
Thursday, July 15 from 3 to 7 p.m.
Jones Park Shelter near the corner of S. 6th St. and Milo St.
Presentation on the “Great Cow War” will take place at 6 p.m. in the Shelter.

This mobile museum housed in a retrofitted school bus that brings history to life for audiences. The five focus topics of the overall exhibit and multi-media presentations present case studies obscured by time:

  • anti-German hysteria of WWI
  • the flu pandemic of 1918-19
  • Prohibition-era bootlegging in the American Heartland
  • the “Second Wave” of the Ku Klux Klan in the Midwest of the 1920s
  • farmer rebellions during the Great Depression

Each tour takes approximately 1 hour. The Buseum will be available during the 4 hour time frame so you can attend at a time convenient for you.

Michael Luick-Thrams presentation on the “Great Cow War” will begin at 6 p.m. and take place in the shelter.

The Science of Perception Deception
Mind Games 1, The Science of Perception Deception – Virtual on Zoom
Monday, July 19 at 7 p.m.

Our brain decides how we perceive everything around us. It finds patterns and solves problems efficiently, except for when it lies to us. In this engaging program, William Pack explores the real science of how our brains trick us into seeing and believing things that don’t exist. In the program, you’ll experience how optical illusions work, why people fall for scams, and how we make thousands of choices every day that are influenced subconsciously.

William will also give the attendees proven, scientific, actionable techniques to preserve brain health. At the end, you may be left wondering if your brain has a mind of its own.

These programs are free and open to the public. For additional information contact Amy Lutzke at (920) 563-7790 or email contact@fortlibrary.org.

Article Submitted by Amy Lutzke
alutzke@fortlibrary.org
(920) 563-7790

This Week’s City, Downtown WW & WUSD Meetings (Updated with Fire Dept.)

Downtown Whitewater Board of Directors – Monday @ 4:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting
Agenda includes Introduction, Question, and Answer Session with Mexican Consulate Julian
Adem
4-5:30 PM
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88210044772?pwd=d1JKV1laT0V0cHBhdXByNEpGTk
5UUT09
Meeting ID: 882 1004 4772
Passcode: 912223
Join by phone
1 312 626 6799 US
Meeting ID: 882 1004 4772
Passcode: 912223

City of Whitewater Urban Forestry Commission – Monday @ 4:30 p.m.
City of Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room
312 W. Whitewater St.
Agenda includes arboretum report

Whitewater Unified School District School Board – Monday @ 6:00 p.m.
Whitewater High School Library -Members of the public may not
attend in-person but virtual access will be provided and the meeting will be live streamed.
6:00 p.m. (Immediately adjourning to closed session to discuss disciplinary data of a district volunteer and evaluation of the superintendent.)
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82862658315?pwd=enhpNk1vdFRhbHZKa1lkRm9aL0RMZz09
Password: 943684
Dial-in: 1-312-626-6799
Webinar ID: 828 6265 8315
Password: 943684
7:00 p.m. via Zoom Online
Agenda (click on “meetings” in upper right hand corner) includes employment of Lakeview Elementary principal and methods for addressing hard-to-fill positions
Join Zoom meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83047017598?pwd=OU5HYU5NUHpuUDJOTmZTL0dhMkJWQT09
Passcode: 664000
Dial-in: 1-312-626-6799
Webinar ID: 830 4701 7598
Passcode: 664000

City of Whitewater Common Council Special Meeting (Joint meeting between Common Council & Finance Committee) – Tuesday @ 4:30 p.m.
Agenda – closed session followed by open session re: purchase of land for southwest water tower, sale of vacant land in Business Park to Lavelle Industries, Inc. (Lot 3 of Certified Survey Map 4555)
This will be a VIRTUAL MEETING
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join us via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
City of Whitewater is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82053065506?pwd=a29MQnQ3MHdRMlYxaC9TVmovUVZkZz09
Meeting ID: 820 5306 5506
Passcode: 305682
Join by phone
1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
Meeting ID: 820 5306 5506
Passcode: 305682

City of Whitewater Finance Committee – Tuesday @ 4:30 p.m.
Agenda includes American Rescue Plan update, salary resolution #2, purchase of Fire Dept. command vehicle
VIRTUAL MEETING
City of Whitewater is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82053065506?pwd=a29MQnQ3MHdRMlYxaC9TVmovUVZkZz09
Meeting ID: 820 5306 5506
Passcode: 305682
Join by phone
1 312 626 6799 US
1 877 853 5257 US Toll-free
Meeting ID: 820 5306 5506
Passcode: 305682

City of Whitewater Landmarks Commission – Thursday @ 6:00 p.m.
City Manager’s Conference Room
312 Whitewater Street
Agenda includes Effigy Mounds Preserve – Report on Virtual Meeting with Commonwealth Heritage; Major concerns addressed regarding the Effigy Mounds Preserve and its maintenance with Eric
Boettcher and Brian Neumiester; Walton Oaks Park Maintenance citizen concerns

Whitewater Fire Department, Inc – Thursday @ 6:30 p.m.
312 W. Whitewater St.
Whitewater Fire Department, Inc Business Meeting
Location: WFD, Inc Training Room
Agenda



Rollie Cooper is a Hometown Hero

(Whitewater Unites Lives submission) Rollie Cooper  is a WUL Hometown Hero, and has been nominated “For providing opportunities for the Kiwanis Builders Club Middle School Students to help in the community by planting and cultivating squash and pumpkins that will be later donated to local food providers.”

Hometown Hero Rollie Cooper is pictured here with his 40-year-old horse, Jim, in the background
Rollie is filling up the watering cans for students so they can water the field
Rollie Cooper is ready to water plants

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 

City Accepting Applications for Board/Commission Seats

The City of Whitewater is currently accepting applications for vacant board and commission seats. Applicants must reside in the city, except as noted below. Eligible applicants willing to serve can apply online, in person or by mail at any time.

Vacant positions include:
• Birge Fountain Committee (3 positions, 1 alternate)
• Board of Zoning Appeals (1 position, 2 alternates)
• Community Involvement and Cable TV Commission (1 position)
• Ethics Committee (1 alternate)
• Equal Opportunities Commission (1 position) – Members must reside in the city or school district, or be employed in the city.
• Landmarks Commission (2 positions)
• Parks & Recreation Board (1 position) – Members must reside in the city or school district.
• Plan & Architectural Review Commission (1 alternate)
• Police & Fire Commission (1 position)
• Urban Forestry Commission (1 alternate)

Interested residents of Whitewater can learn more about each committee and may
apply online at https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/275/Apply-for-Boards-Commissions.

Alternatively a paper copy of the Citizen Service Information Form is available at the 2nd floor Administration window at 312 W. Whitewater Street.
Completed applications can be mailed to:
City Manager’s Office
P.O. Box 178
Whitewater, WI 53190
Questions can be sent to the City Manager’s Office at kboyd@whitewater-wi.gov or 262-473-0104

Source: City of Whitewater press release