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Today is Tuesday, July 30, 2024
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Whitewater Fire & EMS Pancake Breakfast/Open House
Mark your calendars for this Sunday, September 10th, 7 AM to Noon! Come hungry and curious to our Pancake Breakfast/Open House event.
Feast on a delicious breakfast while discovering the exciting transformations at Whitewater Fire & EMS since the passing of our staffing referendum, and our recent transition to a paramedic service.
No fixed cost for the breakfast – just a heartfelt donation of your choice. Your support means the world to us!
On the menu: Pancakes, Eggs, Sausage Links, Milk, OJ & Coffee – yum!
This year’s fundraiser aims to equip our first responders with cutting-edge multi-gas meters. These devices detect various gases, from oxygen to carbon monoxide, ensuring top-notch safety for our community.
Join us for an educational experience too! Explore our Fire Truck Display, Ambulance Display, and even hop on The Orv for some Fire Extinguisher Training. Plus, don’t miss the thrilling Fire Truck Rides!
A big THANK YOU to the amazing citizens of Whitewater and surrounding towns. Your unwavering support has fueled our progress this past year. We can’t wait to continue serving you with pride!
Editor’s Note: The following was prided by Whitewater Pride.
The third annual Whitewater Pride Rally will be held Saturday, Oct. 21 at Cravath Lakefront Park in downtown Whitewater. This free event, which will include music, entertainers, speakers and family-friendly activities, will take place from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. rain or shine.
Lakefront Park provides space for additional activities and vendor booths. The organizing committee, composed of representatives from the community, Whitewater Pride, Whitewater Unites Lives, UW-Whitewater’s PB Poorman Pride Center, and Whitewater High School’s Gay Straight Alliance, encourages those who wish to show their support of all members of our community and especially our LGBTQ+ neighbors, to participate. Organizations will be able to share information about their groups, and businesses, restaurants and others will have an opportunity to sell their products.
A vendor agreement (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSesC-PMV8ziic8ymv4M05Vd16apxFWe70Jn5BFROoz1C9GhQA/viewform) is available to those who wish to support Pride in the Whitewater community. The submissions are due on Sept. 30. The form can also be found at www.whitewaterpride.org
Proceeds from the Pride Rally will be used to help keep this event free for all attendees and will be used to support LGBTQ+ youth in our community through the Whitewater High School Gay Straight Alliance and UW-Whitewater’s PB Poorman Pride Center. For more information, contact Camden Harlan at charlan@whitewaterpride.org or Robin Fox at robinkfox@gmail.com
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
School started this week, so it’s time for a vintage school photo. This image was taken of 4th graders in the Esterly School, probably around 1900. Notice the fine marble fireplace in the schoolroom. That is because the Esterly School was located in the old Esterly mansion on the site of the old Franklin Junior High School at the end of Center Street. The Esterly School opened in 1894 and operated until 1927, when the site was used for the new Whitewater High School that included classrooms for grade schoolers. The grade schoolers were in the old High School building until the 1950s, when the Lincoln School was built.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(#5515PC, Whitewater Historical Society)
The Whippet Swimmers hosted their first home meet on Thursday, September 7, against Edgerton/Evansville. Charlotte Hajewski started off the meet with the National Anthem. What a beautiful voice she has!
The Whippets had some impressive top 3 finishes which included:
- 200 Medley Relay – Maggie Mass, Emerson Dunham, Makayla Bazeley, Charlotte Hajewski (1st)
- 200 Freestyle – Maggie Mass (2nd)
- 200 IM – Makayla Bazeley (1st)
- 50 Freestyle – Charlotte Hajewski (3rd)
- 100 Fly – Makayla Bazeley (1st)
- 100 Freestyle – Emerson Dunham (1st)
- 500 Freestyle – Charlotte Hajewski (3rd)
- 200 Freestyle Relay – Adalynn Frye, Payton Peacock, Atreya Wilson, and Lucy Davis (3rd)
- 100 Backstroke – Maggie Mass (2nd)
- 100 Breaststroke – Emerson Dunham (2nd)
- 400 Freestyle – Charlotte Hajewski, Maggie Mass, Emerson Dunham, and Makayla Bazeley (2nd)
Some best times include:
- Georgia Esch in the 200 Freestyle
- Sanibel Fox-Simes in the 50 Freestyle (dropped 3 seconds)
- Charlotte Hajewski in the 50 Freestyle
- Emerson Dunham in the 100 Freestyle
- Adalynn Frye in the 100 Freestyle
- Marijose Verduzco had a quick split in the 200 Freestyle Relay
Shout out to a few of the girls for trying some new events. Lucy Davis tried two new races including the 200 IM and the 100 Fly. These are some pretty tough races and she did both in one night! Zoe Zei tried the 200 Freestyle, and she ended up loving it. And lastly, the birthday girl, Atreya Wilson, tried the 500 Freestyle. We are looking forward to seeing these girls try a few more new events this season!
The Whippets are in Elkhorn for the Elkhorn Invite on Saturday September 9. We hope to see you all there!
Article and Photo Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
sreynolds@wwusd.org
When Division 2 team Racine Park came to Whitewater, we knew that we were in for a defensive battle, but your Whippets put on a clinic on how to defend as a unit.
The first half saw 40 minutes of soccer that was dominated by an attacking Racine Park. WHS’s defense held strong, and keeper Phoenix Jones made some crucial saves.
The second half was much more evenly matched with Whitewater still playing primarily a defensive role. With 10 minutes left in the game, Park was exhausted and the Whippets were able to put them under sustained pressure. The high pressure eventually led to a defensive mistake that allowed Ethan Dugan to play a dangerous ball into the box that was put into the back of the net by a Racine Park defender.
Please join us Thursday night (tonight) for a rivalry game that promises to be an engaging match vs Delavan-Darien. JV1 game @ 4:45 p.m., Varsity @ 6:45 p.m.
Whitewater:
- 79’ Goal by Ethan Dugan
- Phoenix Jones 9 saves
- Casey Schlicher 3 saves
Racine Park:
- Jonny Babrba-Lopez 5 saves
Article Submitted by Sam Burns
Whitewater High School Head Boys’ Soccer Coach
dburns@wwusd.org
Photo Courtesy of Bob Mischka
Annual State of the City and Schools Addresses
Hosted by the League of Women Voters Whitewater Area
The League of Women Voters Whitewater Area is excited to host its annual State of the City and State of the Schools Addresses on Thursday, September 21st, 6:30- 8 PM, at the Cravath Lakefront Community Center, 341 S Fremont St, Whitewater.
Presenters include Whitewater City Manager John Weidl, WUSD Superintendent Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, and UW Whitewater Chancellor Dr. Corey A. King. Audience members will have an opportunity to ask the speakers questions following their presentations.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Visit our website at https://my.lwv.org/wisconsin/whitewater-area and like us on Facebook!
WMS Teacher John Schimming Honored with Inspiring Educator of the Year Award
At its August 29 All-Staff Kick Off Event, the Whitewater Unified School District recognized John Schimming as this year’s recipient of the WUSD Inspiring Educator of the Year Award.
Schimming is a seventh-grade math teacher at Whitewater Middle School. He is known for his mentorship to his students and the many colleagues, athletes, and community members with whom he interacts. He also has an active role in growing the Whitewater wrestling program, specifically the girls’ division.
“On behalf of our entire school district community, I would like to congratulate John on earning this well-deserved award for the 2023-24 school year,” said Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, Superintendent. “During his time in our district, John has had an incredible impact on our students, families, and community. He is someone who is dedicated to his craft and who truly cares about ensuring students have the opportunities they need to thrive. A big thank you goes out to John for all he does, each and every day.”
The district considers nominations for the annual award from its teachers and staff. A WUSD Inspiring Educator of the Year is an individual whose work exemplifies the district’s core values and demonstrates best practices in the field of education.
The recipient provides students with exceptional learning experiences and unique opportunities, demonstrating a commitment to helping them achieve their highest potential.
The Whitewater Girls’ Tennis Team moved to 2-0 in conference play on Tuesday after defeating Big Foot at home 7-0.
Singles:
- No. 1 – Emilia Houwers def. Lauren Decker 6-0, 6-0
- No. 2 – Jackie Franco def. Easton Gregory 5-7, 6-4, 14-12
- No. 3 – Liz Servin def. Kara Rees 6-1, 6-3
- No. 4 – Vicki Ramirez def. Gabby Klein 6-1, 6-2
Doubles:
- No. 1 – Isabel Aranda & Stephanie Wence def. Robin Cronin & Hannah Grever 7-6 (4), 6-4
- No. 2 – Vanesa Wence & Leah Newmann def. Addie Larson & Mia Nor 6-1, 6-2
- No. 3 – Lillian Navejas-Ortiz & Ariadna Gonzalez Cervantes def. Ryann Grunow & Mya Gonzalez 6-3, 7-6 (1)
Article and Photo Submitted by Baron West
Whitewater High School Head Tennis Coach
bwest@wwusd.org
Obituaries
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Jerome Francis Burke, age 76, of Whitewater, WI, passed away unexpectedly following a brief illness on June 27, 2024. Jerry was born in Evanston, IL on May 13, 1948 to Stephen and Catherine Burke. He grew up in Glenview, IL, where he graduated from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Grade School and then Loyola Academy (Wilmette). Those early days spawned treasured, lifelong friendships. He went on to graduate from St. Joseph’s College (IN) with a BA in Economics, and it was there thathe met his beloved wife, Eileen. They married shortly after graduation and were blessed to share their lives … Read more
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Angelica E. Vicente Santa Cruz passed away Sunday, June 30th in home beside family and friends in Milford, Delaware from a long battle with cancer. Angelica E. Vicente Santa Cruz was born on February 24, 1965. She was the daughter of Doña Carmen Santa Cruz Valdez and Don Luis Vicente León, who allowed her to share a life of family union with her four brothers: Braulio, Carmen Rosa, Edgar and Juan. She was born in Lima-Peru and grew up in the Ventanilla district of the constitutional province of Callao of Peru. She completed her primary studies at the La Merced … Read more
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