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Rotary Holiday Fruit Basket Sale

December 4, 2023

City is Hosting Pathway to Participation Presentation – [Updated]

December 4, 2023

Update 12/5/23 @ 9:45 p.m. – In the Common Council meeting on this date, John Weidl, city manager, indicated that the presentation will be streamed as well as recorded.

The City of Whitewater will be hosting a presentation entitled “Pathway to Participation” on December 12th at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers.

The City of Whitewater is pleased to announce an upcoming educational presentation aimed at informing potential candidates, current council members, and residents about the various ways they can actively participate in city government. As nomination papers for Common Council were made available on December 1st, it is crucial for individuals to be well-prepared and equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to engage effectively in the local decision-making process.

The presentation will make clear the essential role of the city manager in government affairs, familiarizing attendees with the powers vested in the City Council, and emphasizing the significant impact that boards, commissions, and committees can have on shaping the community. Furthermore, the session will provide valuable insights into the resources and tools that entrust individuals with the power to effect positive change within the city.

The city manager’s office cordially extends an invitation to all interested parties to attend this presentation. By participating in the event, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the inner workings of city government, enabling them to make informed decisions and potentially contribute to the betterment of the City of Whitewater.

Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the City of Whitewater.

Photos with Santa & Friends at Fort Atkinson Club

December 4, 2023

Bahá’ís and Friends Artist Gathering in Whitewater

December 4, 2023

Nelson Salisbury House at 404 W. North St

Saturday, Dec. 9, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. with pizza supper if you want to stay.

Remember, you are still an artist if you pursued another career for financial stability.

You are still an artist if you have a survival job and make art when you can.

You are still an artist if you haven’t created in a while.

You are still an artist if you only make art as a hobby.

* Contact hosts, Suzanne Popke and Zachary Popke if you need directions, or need special acoustical/physical set up at:

intsim@idcnet.com or zacharyekpop@gmail.com

You might also like to read the following article on called “Being an Artist and a Baha’i.”

Whippet Swimmers Compete at Milton Invite

December 4, 2023

The Whippet Swimmers traveled to Milton on Saturday, December 2nd to compete in the Tom Lieder Invitational. The Whippets placed 7th overall as a team.

Placing in the Top 16 include (Top 3 medal):

  • 200 Medley Relay:
    • 7th – Langdon Coburn, Jack Hefty, Cruz Aranda, Myles Morse (2:00.14)
  • 200 IM:
    • 4th – Cruz Aranda (2:23.94)
    • 6th – Jack Hefty (2:30.10)
  • 100 Fly:
    • 7th – Cruz Aranda (1:04.45)
    • 16th – Sam Nickelsburg (1:22.54)
  • 100 Free:
    • 4th – Jack Hefty (55.86)
  • 100 IM:
    • 6th – Langdon Coburn (1:05.99)
  • 200 Freestyle Relay:
    • 6th – Miles Nickelsburg, Wyatt Esch, Onyx Thompson, Caleb Kluck (2:04.29)
  • 100 Backstroke:
    • 6th – Langdon Coburn (1:07.86)
  • 400 Freestyle Relay (8 Swimmer swam a 50 Freestyle)
    • 2nd – Cruz Aranda, Langdon Coburn, David Enns, Miles Nickelsburg, Caleb Kluck, Sam Nickelsburg, Myles Morse, Jack Hefty (3:44.07)

The Whippets are back in action on Tuesday, December 5th in Edgerton at 5:30 p.m. 

Article and Photo Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
sreynolds@wwusd.org

Washington Elementary Named to Best Elementary Schools List

December 4, 2023

U.S. News & World Report has named Washington Elementary to its list of the 2024 Best Elementary Schools across the United States.

Washington earned a spot at number 290 out of the 951 elementary schools that U.S. News analyzed in Wisconsin.

The publication analyzed and ranked elementary schools’ proficiency in mathematics, reading, and language arts based on state assessment data. The rankings are not based on the test scores alone, as they also take into consideration local socioeconomic demographics. This two-part calculation ensures schools listed are serving all students. 

“This is a recognition to be celebrated for our staff, students, and families of Washington Elementary,” said Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, Superintendent. “These results show the success of our teaching models and initiatives to make our schools more inclusive and equitable for all students. We are proud of this recognition and will continue to best prepare our students for their continued educational journey.”

Washington Elementary scored 69.58 out of 100 overall. The school ranked 305 in reading proficiency and 456 in math proficiency, out of 951 Wisconsin schools. 

Additionally, about 88 percent of Washington Elementary teachers have three or more years of experience. About 42 percent of students scored at or above proficient in both math and reading, compared to the state average of 36 and 37 percent, respectively.

To learn more about Washington Elementary’s ranking, please visit https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/wisconsin/washington-elementary-225107

Editor’s note: This article is primarily based on a news release from Washington Elementary School.

This Week’s City Meetings (Updated)

December 3, 2023

Updated (twice) on 12/4/23 with agenda for Board of Zoning Appeals. The full packet has now been provided.

City of Whitewater Police & Fire Commission – Monday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Recognition Of Police & Fire Commission Member Dr. Glenn Hayes For His Service To The
City of Whitewater and closed session (to be followed by open session) including interview of Detective Lieutenant candidate
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI 53190
*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/430445381
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 430-445-381
United States: +1 (571) 317-3122

City of Whitewater Common Council Meeting – Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes closed session to Discuss Bargaining and Negotiation strategy related to the contract with the Police Union, 2024 salary resolution, first reading of an ordinance regarding revisions to Chapter 12.22 Construction Standards Adopted, and Discussion and possible action regarding the Proposed Nonconforming Use Agreement for Kienbaum Iron & Metal.
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/85173798964?pwd=MnEg8oCuovzvPXye11bTMqeJCT_gA.pBZXd8Utj5U9Bv22
Or Telephone: 312 626 6799
Webinar ID: 851 7379 8964
Passcode: 518542

The Landmarks Commission meeting that was scheduled for Thursday, December 7 has been canceled due to lack of a quorum.

City of Whitewater Board of Zoning Appeals – Thursday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes appeal by Jes Cisneros, 421 Indian Mound Parkway, to exceed the four foot height in street yard.
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 join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/624685101
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 624-685-101
United States: +1 (408) 650-3123
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install

Sand Delivery Today for Use on Public Sidewalks – Sturdy Containers Needed

December 3, 2023

The City of Whitewater – Department of Public Works will deliver sand on Monday, December 4, 2023. Residents who wish to receive a quantity of sand for placement on public sidewalks, during the winter months, are asked to have a sturdy container at the curbside by 7:00 a.m. on Monday, December 4. City officials stress that a cardboard box is not considered a sturdy container.

If there is a snowstorm or some other unpredictable occurrence that prevents delivery that week, the sand will be delivered as soon as weather permits.

As a reminder, the owner, occupant, and person in charge of any building or lot fronting upon or adjoining any sidewalk shall remove all snow and ice from the sidewalk no later than twenty-four hours after a snow or ice event. When any ice is so formed on any sidewalk that it cannot be removed, then the responsible party shall keep the same sprinkled with salt or sand.

For additional questions or concerns contact the Streets Department at (262) 473-0560.

Obituaries

Obituary: Janet Irene Heckert, 87

Janet Irene Heckert, age 87, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2024 in Delavan, Wisconsin. Born on November 1, 1936, in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, she was the daughter of Gladys and Henry Jansen. Janet was preceded in death by her loving husband Kenneth Heckert and her brothers Sonny and Paul and sister Darlene. Janet was a graduate of Elkhorn High School in 1955. On October 24, 1957, she married the love of her life, Kenneth Heckert, at Elkhorn Baptist Church in their hometown of Elkhorn, Wisconsin. Janet worked for many years as a seamstress, but her true passion was as a … Read more

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Obituary: Fred Chester Traxler, 78

Obituary: Fred Chester Traxler, 78 Fred was born in Whitewater, Wisconsin on October 23, 1945, son of Chester and Elva (Klug) Traxler. He was born to eternal life at Ascension St. Francis Place in Milwaukee on June 1, 2024. Fred was a 1964 graduate of Whitewater High School. In his younger days Fred enjoyed bowling and polka dancing–and was very good at both. He was very competitive, especially when pitching horseshoes with his Dad, brothers, and cousin Sid. He was always ready for a card game, and was also a big fan of the Packers and Brewers. Fred is preceded … Read more

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Obituary: Harry Oliver Dempsey, 80

Harry Oliver Dempsey passed away peacefully and among family in Elkhorn, WI on July 24, 2024 at the age of 80. Born on May 21, 1944 to William and Norma (Shober) Dempsey, Harry grew up on the family farm in Whitewater. In his younger years, Harry enjoyed hunting and fishing, a passion that he later passed on to his own children. All his life he could often be found in his shop, building or fixing something – from a child’s toy to lawn mowers, cars, and tractors. His passion for self-sufficiency extended to his large garden whose abundance he happily … Read more

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Obituary: Shirley A. Knuteson, 85

SHIRLEY A. KNUTESON, age 85, of Whitewater, died Thursday, June 27, 2024 at Glenwood at Mulberry Campus in Whitewater. She was born to Hugo and Helen (Wilson) Ferge of Elkhorn, WI. She attended school in Walworth High School, graduating in 1956. Shirley worked at Sterlingworth in Elkhorn and then Fairhaven Nursing Home prior to retirement.  As a young woman, she loved roller skating, had a love for animals, especially her dogs and horses on the farm. She was a loyal Brewer and Packer fan. Her diverse family was her pride and joy.  Shirley is survived by her six children Jerry … Read more

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Celebration of Life: Dave Triebold

A celebration of life for Dave Triebold will be held July 27 at Triebold Farms, with festivities beginning around 11:30 am. A rememberance service will take place at 12:30 pm. A pig roast will follow, and the pool will be open. The family encourages you to stay through the evening for a bonfire as well. Contact Kris (262)949-5474 or Kath (414)412-4385 with questions.

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Celebration of Life: James Paul Fisher, 86

James Paul Fisher, 86, known by friends as JP or Jay, passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at UW Hospital, Madison, with his immediate family by his side. His body finally surrendered to a heart attack after battling heart and kidney ailments for many years. Born in Fond du lac, Wisconsin, on October 25, 1937, to Lorraine and James Fisher, JP was a resident of Elkhorn and then Whitewater, Wisconsin. At age 2 JP was diagnosed with polio. Through daily therapy administered by his mother and grandmother, he overcame this life threatening virus, and with a prognosis of limited … Read more

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Obituary: Shirley M.  Messier, 86

Shirley M. Messier, 86, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away on July 8, 2024. Shirley was born to Erwin and Leona Reese on May 20, 1938, in Farmington, Wisconsin. Shirley (“Shirttail”) attended the local country school, then set out on her own, taking a job doing factory work. On August 24, 1957, she married Blaine Messier in Jefferson, Wisconsin. They had three daughters, Michele (Shelly), Terry, and Karen. Shirley spent many years being a working wife and mother, finally retiring from Polymer Technologies / MacLean Fogg in Whitewater. Shirley loved country music and spent her retirement years going to George Jones … Read more

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Celebration of Life: Patricia Parr

Patricia Ann ParrBorn 7/20/42Departed to Heaven 5/10/23 About herself, Patricia often said “I love life, I love God, He always has taken care of me, and He always will”. Patricia died peacefully at Angels Grace Hospice in Oconomowoc, after a long and courageously fought season of declining health. Patricia was born in Beaver Dam, to a lovely family, which included her older brother Dennis and not too long after, her lifetime best friend and little sister Mary. They grew up on an idyllic “Gentlemen’s Farm” outside of Jefferson, with horses and many animals. Her parents, Floyd and Kathryn owned the … Read more

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Obituary: Margorie Alice “GG” Roloff, 89

Marjorie Alice “GG” Roloff, 89, passed away Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Golden Years in Lake Geneva, WI. She was born July 31, 1934, to Fred and Martha (Arndt) Papcke, in Whitewater, WI, the fifth of eleven children. GG attended South Heart Prairie School, across the road from the family’s home farm. She is a Whitewater High School graduate. On April 19, 1953, she married her high school sweetheart, Eric. She worked a variety of jobs over the years. Her most memorable of those being the local canning factory and as a crossing guard. After retiring, she and Eric would … Read more

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Obituary: Marilyn Mae Fuerstenberg, 81 (UPDATED)

Marilyn Mae Fuerstenberg, 81 of Whitewater, WI., passed away on June 27, 2024, at Agrace Hospice in Janesville, WI. Marilyn was born May 27, 1943, in Geneva Township, to Raymond and Doris Kilpin. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, her two younger brothers, Mike and Donny Kilpin. Marilyn married William (Bill) Fuerstenberg on September 21, 1963. Bill and Marilyn lived in Whitewater. Together they raised three children, taking the family on yearly vacations and camping trips throughout the years. Marilyn worked for Walworth County Health and Social Services as a Child Protection Social Worker. She dedicated 25 years … Read more

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