| Announcement from UW-W In light of the ongoing and fluid COVID-19 situation, we regret to inform you that the inauguration of Chancellor Dwight C. Watson, scheduled for April 24, 2020, has been postponed. As always, our first priority is the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff and guests. We look forward to celebrating with you once it is again safe for us all to gather together. |
A new website from the National Council on Aging provides resources for urgent needs as well as tips for staying healthy, safe and connected. There’s also a video called, “Coronavirus: What older adults need to know.”
To visit the site please click here.
Further information regarding the community gardens is available at https://whitewatercg.wixsite.com/whitewatercg
Mas informacion https://whitewatercg.wixsite.com/whitewatercg
Two faculty members at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater have collaborated with engineers to produce a device that has received a U.S. patent. The device, an in-ear noise dosimeter, allows for noise measurement within the ear canal, which provides a more accurate assessment of noise exposure than current devices.
Included as inventors on the patent are Lynn Gilbertson, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders in the College of Education and Professional Studies, Donna Vosburgh, associate professor of occupational and environmental safety and health in the College of Business and Economics, and Tim Klein, a private industry contract engineer.
The device measures the potential impact of the increasingly common use of in-ear communication devices, or “comm sets,” among workers in industries as widespread as the military, construction, police, EMS and firefighting, and manufacturing and warehousing. Most dosimeters, which measure sound decibels, are placed near a worker’s shoulder; as a result, before this invention there was no available device for testing whether prolonged exposure to the in-ear communication sets could affect hearing health on the job.
Gilbertson and Vosburgh first began collaborating on campus in 2014. As they looked for possible research subjects, Gilbertson mentioned the increasing use of radio communication through earpieces. While some professions were reporting an increase in hearing loss, there was no data to support the devices playing a role. Both Gilbertson and Vosburgh posited that available dosimeters simply couldn’t measure the full impact of the in-ear devices on hearing. So, the two set out to develop and lab- and field-test an in-ear dosimeter.
Colleagues at UW-Platteville who contributed to the development of the prototype include Development Specialist John P. Fick, a new product development engineer, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering Anne-Marie A. Lerner, and engineering students John J. Lee and Ethan M. Derner.
“It is wonderful to see this cross-disciplinary effort come together to have an impact on hearing health advocacy,” said Gilbertson. “No one is an expert in everything; to solve complex, real-world problems like this it takes a team with expertise in science, health care, industry, and the humanities.”
Three UW-Whitewater students also participated in the research and testing phase of the prototype development. Gina Sanfelippo and Rachel Moldenhauer, both undergraduate majors in communication sciences and disorders, supported the lab testing of the prototype. Connor Carrington, an occupational safety major, contributed to data collection efforts during field testing of the prototype with UW-Whitewater police officers.
“We agreed to participate in the research from two perspectives,” said UW-Whitewater Police Chief Matt Kiederlen. “We always want to assist students in positive endeavors, and I recognized the potential hearing improvement and protection their research could provide. Understanding the effects that consistent radio usage has on users can only lead to improvements in equipment effectiveness and efficiencies.”
Lab and field testing confirmed the hypothesis that an in-ear device would lead to a more accurate measurement.
“We measured a difference in sound pressure level of 1 to 10 decibels between traditional dosimeters, which are commonly attached to the wearer’s clothing near the shoulder, and our in-ear device,” said Gilbertson. “That can have a significant implication for hearing health. In field testing, this led to some good conversations about hearing loss prevention.”
In field testing, levels above 85 decibels were detected.
“According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, once a worker is exposed to noise over 85 decibels, a three-decibel increase in exposure drops a worker’s recommended time working in that noise by half,” said Vosburgh. “A noise exposure increase of 6 decibels will reduce an eight-hour work day to two hours.”
WiSys, the independent, nonprofit supporting organization designated as the official technology transfer office for the UW System comprehensive campuses, sponsored the patent application for the devices. The project also received grant support from a WiSys Technology Advancement Grant (WiTAG) and a WiSys Prototype Development Fund.
In its role supporting the development of the product, WiSys will market the technology to potential manufacturers. Should the device come to market, users of in-ear communication devices such as officers with the UW-Whitewater Police Department will have a more accurate way to measure — and mitigate — their exposure to harmful levels of noise.
“For us the motivation is that these are measurable levels for occupations that have high risk of hearing loss,” said Gilbertson. “We are working on a manuscript to share out with the scientific and professional community,” said Gilbertson. “We will continue to explore how to better measure noise exposure and advocate for hearing health.”
For more information on the device, contact Lynn Gilbertson at gilbertl@uww.edu or 262-472-5203.
Governor Evers issued Emergency Order #12 – Safer at Home on March 24, which instructed Wisconsin residents to remain in their homes, except for performing multiple types of essential activities or for essential businesses and operations. Those leaving their homes should at all times, and as reasonably as possible, maintain social distancing of at least six feet from any other person consistent with social distancing requirements.
It is crucial that people comply with this emergency order to help slow the spread of COVID-19 here in Wisconsin. Individuals that have symptoms of COVID-19 or have had exposure to those that have them should not be leaving their homes and those leaving their homes need to practice social distancing everywhere they go.
In addition to following these protocols, there are critical needs developing in communities due to the closure of schools, businesses, or community organizations, and the need for individuals to remain in their homes, particularly senior citizens and vulnerable populations. These needs will likely continue to develop over the coming weeks.
In order to respond to community needs, human service operations have been allowed to continue and organizations that provide charitable and social services are specifically listed as essential businesses in Emergency Order #12. These organizations include businesses and religious and secular nonprofit organizations that are providing food, shelter, and social services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals, people with disabilities, and for individuals who need assistance as a result of this public health emergency.
HEALTH GUIDANCE FOR VOLUNTEERS FROM WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES
Department of Health Services recommends that volunteer organizations implement safety measures such as social distancing, frequent handwashing, and implement their guidance for business and employers for responding to COVID-19 where applicable.
Moreover, some groups of people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19. Adults over the age of 65 and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, and HIV, may be at higher risk for more serious complications from COVID-19. DHS recommends that these individuals stay home when possible and consider remote volunteer activities.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
There are many ways that individuals can help with these needs, including remote or in-home service opportunities, donations of food and supplies, and targeted in-person volunteer service.
For information on ways in which you can help others impacted by the spread of COVID-19, please visit the COVID-19 Response Initiative on Volunteer Wisconsin at www.volunteerwisconsin.org and/or check with local organizations for projects that they have not yet added to the state website.
The Whitewater High School Class of 2020 will be represented by seven Valedictorians. Congratulations to Colin Chenoweth, Caroline Crowley, David Kromholz, Hailey Murphy, Sophie Olson, Mina Truesdale, and Emma VanDaele!
Colin Chenoweth
Post High School Institution: Case Western Reserve University or Milwaukee School of Engineering
Intended Major: Computer Science
Career Goal: Software Engineer
Caroline Crowley
Post High School Institution: UW-Madison
Intended Major: Communication Arts
Career Goal: Photographer/Media Manager
David Kromholz
Post High School Institution: Michigan Technological University
Intended Major: Forestry
Career Goal: Peace Corps/Forester
Hailey Murphy
Post High School Institution: Saint Norbert College
Intended Major: Spanish & Political Science
Career Goal: Policy or Research Analysis
Sophie Olson
Post High School Institution: University of Delaware
Intended Major: Biochemistry
Career Goal: Pharmaceutical Lawyer
Mina Truesdale
Post High School Institution: Cedarville University
Intended Major: Chemistry
Career Goal: Hematologist
Emma VanDaele
Post High School Institution: Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO)
Intended Major: Communicative Sciences and Disorders
Career Goal: Speech Pathologist
The City of Whitewater is excited to announce that the construction of the new Cravath Lakefront Park Amphitheater is underway. The overall cost for this project is expected to be $338,000. We wish to thank the Frawley family and the Whitewater Rotary Club for their generous donations totaling $80,000 to help support the project.
In recognition of the Frawley family’s title sponsorship contribution of $50,000, the amphitheater will be named in their honor and the family name will be displayed prominently over the stage. “This community-centric project provided us with a great opportunity to thank the Whitewater Community for their loyalty and patronage over the past 72 years,” said Mike Frawley.
In addition to the Frawley family’s donation, the Whitewater Rotary Club has committed to raising $30,000 to contribute to the project with their fundraising efforts taking place over the next 3-5 years. The Rotary logo will be displayed on the amphitheater pillars when the project is completed.
The Whitewater 4th of July committee is also supporting the project by deferring city support to the festival for the next decade. The city appreciates the committee’s commitment to this important project, which benefits the Whitewater community.
“The City of Whitewater is extremely thankful for the donations that have been given to help support the facility.” said Eric Boettcher, Parks and Recreation Director. “This new amphitheater should truly enhance existing events and music and we couldn’t be happier to see it move forward.”
Citizens can help with the funding of the amphitheater project by making donations through the Whitewater Community Foundation. The Whitewater Community Foundation has set up a fund for this city project and will be coordinating the fundraising efforts for the new amphitheater. To make a donation, visit http://whitewatercommunityfoundation.org/donate/. Click the Donate Now button and choose a dollar amount, how often you wish to donate and which cause you wish to support. Donors can also share a note of why they are gifting the money to the cause.
From the Young Auditorium: “As the situation surrounding COVID-19 continues to evolve, Young Auditorium is working with promoters, artists, and artist management to help limit the spread the coronavirus while keeping employees, patrons, and performers safe. With these considerations in mind, the performance of An American In Paris originally scheduled for May 3rd has been cancelled. Patrons who have purchased tickets for the cancelled performance will be personally contacted by a Young Auditorium staff member to discuss options. Given our limited resources during these unprecedented times, we expected to reach all ticketed patrons by Tuesday, April 7th .
Young Auditorium will provide updated information as the need arises, and will adapt our plans as directed by university administration. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we navigate this situation. Please visit www.youngauditorium.com for complete details on event cancellations.
From UW-W College of Arts and Communication: Friends of UW-Whitewater’s Summerround will not be surprised to learn that the 2020 season has been canceled out of an abundance of caution for our patrons, students, faculty, and staff during this period of disruption due to COVID-19. “Over the years, many have derived great pleasure from attending UW-Whitewater student productions and we are looking forward to your joining us for the 2021 season when a greater sense of normalcy returns,” shared Dean Eileen M. Hayes.
The faculty and staff of the Department of Theatre/Dance are working on creative ways of teaching their coursework and working from home. Creativity is in large supply in the College of Arts and Communication, which will serve us well as we navigate staying safe at home.
“Our Warhawk family is strong, caring and resilient. I appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we navigate this situation. We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 worldwide outbreak, and we will act and adapt our plans as appropriate.” – Chancellor Dr. Dwight C. Watson
For more information on campus response visit: http://www.uww.edu/uhcs/covid19
Barbara Anne Roth Hill
June 3, 1934 — March 22, 2020
Barbara Anne Roth Hill, 85, was called to Heaven and died peacefully on Sunday, March 22, 2020. After battling kidney disease for many years, Barb is finally at rest. She was a loving wife for 64 years to Charlie “Chas” Hill, wonderful mother to Steve and Lori Hill, Sheryl and Keith Brunette, and Sarah and Bob Geisthardt, devoted “Grandma” to Stephen, Matty and Coley, Nick and Kena, Jackie and Jereme, Jon and Ally, Mikey and Hope, Steph, and Anna, and loving ‘Grandma Grandma’ to Max, Maya, Brody, Emi, Liam, Eva, Allie, Ryan, Charlie, Tommy, Madeline, Henry and Calvin.
Besides husband Charlie, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, Barbara is survived by brother Charlie Roth and Anna, and sisters-in-law Margaret ‘Peggy’ Simons and Karen Lee as well as beloved and special nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.
Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Silas Martin Roth and Sarah Eleanor Moore Roth; mother-in-law and father-in-law Mildred and Neal Hill; brothers Martin and wife Ardis, John and wife Bonita, Sam and wife Romelle, and Paul A. Roth; sister Rosemary Hadrath and husband Sterling “Bud” Hadrath; sister-in law Dorothy Frutiger and husband Richard Frutiger; and brother-in-law Richard Simons.
Barbara was born in Mauston on June 3, 1934, where she attended and graduated from Mauston High School. Upon graduation, Barbara went to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where she earned her degree in education and later her master’s in special education. Barb was a dedicated Warhawk! Barb taught in the Edgerton, Mauston, Whitewater and Waukesha school districts and was a dedicated teacher for many years before retiring. She was also an active member of the Whitewater Jaycettes and was even elected state president of the Wisconsin Jaycettes.
Barb loved entertaining guests and family with delicious meals and activities such as the yearly game dinner and annual Easter egg hunt. Later, nearing retirement, Barb and Charlie bought, remodeled and rebuilt a lovely cottage on Wheeler Lake in Lakewood, Wisconsin. They made sure there was plenty of room for their ever-growing family, since the family was at the center of Barbara and Charlie’s lives. Upon retirement, Barb and Charlie traveled the 3 1/2 hours to Lakewood countless weekends as well as attending family sporting events and various family activities in between.
“Grandma Grandma” put family first and was happiest when her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were around!
She was the organizer and the center of many, many family gatherings and events through the years. She was the glue in our family and will be greatly missed.
Our family would like to thank DaVita Dialysis Center in Waukesha, Brookfield Rehabilitation Center and Summit Woods Senior Housing for their kind and loving care of Barbara. A celebration of Barbara’s life will take place at a later date, yet to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Barb’s memory are appreciated to the family to be designated to a charity at a later time.
RETRACTION: On 3/28 the Banner posted an article referencing social media comments that according to reliable sources there are three confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the community. The Banner staff apologizes that we did not sufficiently confirm this information before going to “press.” We are working to do so on this story, but at this time cannot confirm the accuracy of the report. It is our goal to always provide accurate information, and we are instituting a new policy regarding sources in order to avoid future confusion. We appreciate your reliance on the Banner as a means of keeping up with local news and events, and hope that you understand that this misstep occurred in the best interest of the health and safety of our community in the midst of a rapidly developing outbreak.
The remainder of the article is well referenced:
As of 3/27, Rock County reports 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19, Jefferson has 6 cases, and Walworth has 5. The state has had a total of 842 positive tests and 13 deaths. Since widespread testing still is not available, there are undoubtedly many additional infected persons who may even be unaware that they could spread the illness to others.
Dr. Ryan Westergaard, Chief Medical Officer & State Epidemiologist for Communicable Diseases in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services stated today that he believes all counties in the state should now be considered to be at high risk of the virus.
There appears to be increasing compliance with social distancing and staying at home, but based on recent data from Unacast, there’s still way too much traveling still taking place. Unacast, a location data and analytics firm based in Norway and New York, has utilized data culled from mobile phones to create a “Social Distancing Scoreboard,” assigning countries, states and counties a letter grade for their change in average distance traveled. As of 3/23 the company gave Wisconsin a D for having only reduced distance traveled by 19% compared with pre-social driving. Walworth county was rated a C with a 20% reduction, but both Jefferson and Rock counties were rated Fs, with only a 8% and 3% reduction respectively.
In accordance with the Governor’s “Safer at Home” mandate, all residents are strongly urged to stay at home until at least April 24. Exceptions include for solitary outdoor recreation (walking, jogging, gardening, etc.) essential employment, medical services or getting groceries. Some grocery stores, including Pick ‘n Save and Festival in Fort Atkinson, offer online ordering with pickup that allow the customer to avoid the risks involved in walking through the aisles.
Let’s do our part in keeping the virus from getting out of hand in our community.
