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A Walworth County resident has died due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, per a press release on April 12. The patient is an adult in their 80’s. UPDATED: In response to a question from the Banner, Carlo Nevicosi, Deputy Director of Walworth County HHS, indicated that “The case was laboratory-confirmed for COVID-19.”
“It is with great sadness that I confirm that a Walworth County resident has passed away due to COVID-19”, said Elizabeth Aldred, Health and Human Services (HHS) Director. “This is a sad day for Walworth County. Our entire community feels the weight of this loss.”
The release did not indicate where the individual had lived. Walworth County HHS recently indicated that COVID-19 has been confirmed or suspected in every major community in the county. In a telephone conversation with a Banner staff member on April 7, Carlo Nevicosi, Deputy Director of the Walworth County Department of Health & Human Services, confirmed that there are “confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19” in Whitewater. Mr. Nevicosi stated that he was not at that time authorized to release any further information regarding the nature of those cases.
The Walworth County Division of Public Health continues to monitor the spread of the disease and implement practices to reduce transmission.
“We know that many Walworth County residents are concerned about what impact this virus may have on themselves and their loved ones. This is a rapidly evolving public health event that we are taking very seriously” added Aldred. “This is a time to remind everyone of the importance of taking precautions to protect those at higher risk, especially the elderly and people with serious underlying health conditions.”
To reduce risk of getting sick, Public Health advises everyone to follow these simple steps:
- Following the Safer at Home Order
- Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Stay home when sick.
This is a rapidly evolving situation. For the latest information, visit the CDC’s website or the DHS website.
For the latest information about COVID-19 in Walworth County, visit:
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In a 4 minute, 35 second slideshow, many of the WHS teachers and other staff sent encouraging (but occasionally odd) messages to their students during the “Safer at Home” order, otherwise known as “Study at Home” order. You may watch by clicking here.
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Running a Small Business or Nonprofit and Feeling Overwhelmed by Emergency Funding Information? Editorial by Lisa Dawsey Smith
You are NOT alone. And it can be difficult to not have comprehensive, easy to navigate information at your fingertips.
For any of the conversations that I’ve had in the past weeks with local business I’ve started with the caveat: None of us are experts right now whether it be a economic development organization like a Chamber of Commerce or a local media outlet. We’re sifting through just as much information as you are and pulling together reliable resources for you to have quality information in your hands. The best source I’ve found? Your bank. You have a working relationship with your bank and they know you and your business needs better than anyone else. Does that mean you’ll likely get a live person on the phone in the instant that you need them? Maybe not but they’re doing their best to catch up and many have assured me that they will get back to you just as soon as they can!
Now you’ve heard about the CARES act and all of the programs that it created. There’s a lot of information in that to unpack. There’s the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, and an available advance to that loan. There are provisions for possible loan forgiveness. There’s another program called the Paycheck Protection Program available through existing SBA lenders. There’s an online portal, and one that involves forms that an approved SBA lender has to submit. Confused yet? You’re not alone. So go ahead and call your bank or credit union, leave a voicemail message and while you’re waiting to hear back check out the information compiled by the US Chamber of Commerce located here; it’s an easier to digest format for the information. https://www.uschamber.com/co/start/strategy/cares-act-small-business-guide
And remember, you are not alone.
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(3/23/20) Taking another step in the effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, Governor Tony Evers said on Monday that he plans to issue an order on Tuesday ordering all nonessential businesses to close. Details on which businesses will be allowed to stay open have not yet been announced, but are expected to be similar to the restrictions in other states such as California, Illinois, and Ohio. Best guess is that essential services are likely to include health care providers, grocery stores, restaurant carry-out services, farms, critical manufacturing, utility companies, law enforcement, and government operations. The governor promised to give “nonessential” businesses a grace period to close down, although hair and tanning salons were already shuttered last week.
“Folks, this is important. Time is of the essence,” Evers said. “This isn’t something I thought we’d have to do, it’s not something I wanted to do and it’s not something that I take lightly.”
(Banner comment) You may find it to be worth four minutes to read the article, “The Severity of the Next Several Weeks Depends Upon Our Actions Now,” by Andy Slavitt, former head of the Centers for Medicaid & Medicare Services. Click here for the post on medium.com.
Finally, here are some good tips for your essential shopping trips.
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The District’s tentative timeline for selection of a new Administrator:
HYA Job Posting: January 25-March 13 (HYA = Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates)
Online Survey: February 10-24
Leadership Profile Report presented to Board: Monday, March 2
HYA Screening Interviews: Until Friday, March 20
Slate presented to Board: Monday, March 23 (NOTE: The Board does have a closed session on 3/23 for this purpose.)
Board initial interviews: April 6, 7, 9
Board meets to identify finalists: After the last interview
Finalist Interviews: April 13-?
Board meets to identify preferred candidate: Within a few days of the finalists’ interviews
Target for public announcement: May 1
District Administrator assumes responsibilities: July 1, 2020
District Characteristics:
- Approximately 2000 students
- 43% economically disadvantaged students
- 14% ELL (English Language Learner) students
- 17% students with disabilities
- 37% students of color, predominately Hispanic/Latino
- 82% of High School students are engaged in music, arts, and/or athletic programs.
- In 1960 Whitewater put into effect the first unified school district in WI, separating all school business and budget matters from the city council control.
Interview & Online Survey Participants
The consultants (HYA) spoke with 25 individuals and analyzed 517 online survey responses. Participants in the online survey: 181 students, 158 parents, 140 employees, 38 community members.
(Added on 3/21 at 10 p.m.) It may be of interest to note that the percentage ratings on some portions of the survey reflected much ratings on the part of community members and employees than those of parents and high school students. (It must be noted that there were only 38 community members participating in Whitewater.) The consultants indicated that it is not unusual to have a decline in ratings when a respondent is closer to the “consumer” experience in the district. The Banner was only able to find one other HYA survey in the state, but the difference in rankings between constituencies was much greater in Whitewater than in Green Bay. Shown below is the response to the question: “Please rate the overall quality of education in the District.”
All | Community Member | Employee | Parent | Student | |
Whitewater | 56% | 74% | 82% | 47% | 39% |
Green Bay | 51% | 47% | 53% * | 52% | 46% |
- Green Bay’s survey had three categories of employees: Administrator (95 responses) = 68%, Certified/Licensed Staff (666 responses) = 53%, and Support Staff (219 responses) = 47%. Whitewater’s employees were all in one pool.
Strengths of the District (as identified by the interviews and surveys)
- Every group noted that Whitewater is a small, safe, friendly community in which to live and that the community shows tremendous support for the school district.
- Tremendous support for WUSD referendums.
- Quality staff: caring and dedicated.
- Growing diversity in the student population.
- Area Quality of Life: friendly community, environmental opportunities, University presence, proximity to Madison, Milwaukee, and Chicago. “All groups highlighted the Whitewater area as a great place to live, work and recreate.”
- Stable dedicated school board
- District facilities are well maintained.
Top 5 District Strengths
- Technology is integrated into the classroom.
- Facilities are well maintained.
- District schools are safe.
- The district employs effective teachers, administrators, and support staff in its schools.
- District technology infrastructure is sufficient to support 21st century learning.
Challenges, Concerns, Issues Facing the District
- The district needs to create a central communication port where parents (especially) can look for information.
- Increasing mental health needs of students
- Increase in special education needs
- Changing demographic needs including poverty and homelessness
- Local housing shortage
- Enrollment challenges, particularly the net loss with open enrollment students
Desired Characteristics of New District Administrator
- Relationship builder
- Strong communicator
- Celebrates diversity
- Trustworthy and open minded
- Fosters community engagement
- Visible and accessible
- Sets high expectations
Top Five Desired Strengths for New Administrator
- Foster a positive, professional climate of mutual trust and respect among faculty, staff, and administrators
- Be visible throughout the District and actively engaged in community life
- Recruit, employ, and retain effective personnel throughout the District and its schools
- Understand and be sensitive to the needs of a diverse student population
- Establish a culture of high expectations for all students and personnel
(Added on 3/21 at 10 p.m.) The complete survey report may be found here.
The leadership profile may be found here.
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(Well, unfortunately due to the social distancing requirement, there may not be much fellowship or fun, but at least there is still food!)
The Senior Nutrition Program – Senior Dining is currently serving meals. The Senior Dining locations are temporarily providing meals on a take out basis only. The following locations are currently serving Monday through Friday: Elkhorn – Sedgemeadow Apartments, Delavan – Lake Comus Apartments, Lake Geneva – The Terraces and Whitewater – Brookdale Apartments. Reservations are still required 1 business day in advance by Noon. Call (262) 741-3333 for reservations or see the dining site manager.
3/18/20 – Walworth County Division of Public Health announced today that there is now one confirmed case in Walworth County. This individual recently traveled domestically and at the recommendation of Walworth County Division of Public Health, voluntarily self-isolated upon returning to the community. Out of respect for the patient’s privacy, no additional information will be provided.
“We are in daily contact with this individual to monitor their symptoms and ensure they are receiving support to be able to isolate at home,” said Erica Bergstom, Public Heatlh Officer.
At this time Walworth County is not included in the list of identified locations with community transmission.
Walworth County Division of Public Health is keeping track of this outbreak. We are working with our local, state, and federal partners to deal quickly and effectively when people have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been around people that have been infected with the coronavirus. Walworth County Division of Public Health will directly notify close contacts of any identified cases.
This is a rapidly evolving situation. For the latest information, visit the CDC’s website or the DHS website. For current updates for Walworth County click here.
NOTE FROM THE BANNER: Please be diligent in handwashing and social distancing. We’re all encouraged to remain at home as much as possible, and when it’s essential to go out, maintain at least 6 feet from other people. There is particular concern about younger people, who may develop such a mild infection that they’re not even aware that they’re ill, but can still spread the virus to others — particularly to seniors and others with compromised immunity, for whom this virus can be fatal.
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Protecting Yourself
While there is no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, Mercyhealth urges everyone to remain vigilant but not panic. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash your hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
- CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
- Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19. This helps prevent spreading the disease to others. Facemasks are crucial for health workers and people who care for someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
Most patients with COVID-19 symptoms are at low risk for having the disease. If you have concerns, Mercyhealth Virtual Visit Now is a safe, convenient way to get expert medical advice from the comfort of your home. With Virtual Visit Now, you help reduce the risk of spreading germs to patients and staff at the urgent care clinic. Mercyhealth cannot diagnose COVID-19 through Virtual Visit Now, but your remote care provider can screen you, answer your questions, and recommend what you should do next.
Obituaries
Ernest Walter Regelein, 93, Fort Atkinson, formerly of Whitewater passed away on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at Wellington Meadows in Fort Atkinson. Ernie was born on March 14, 1931 in Fort Atkinson to Benjamin and Ana (Busche) Regelein. He served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Ernie married Mary Clark on March 23, 1985. She preceded him in death on June 26, 1987. He was a home builder and worked for 28 years with the United States Post Office. Ernie also owned and operated the Western Aire Supper Club in Oconomowoc. He was a lover … Read more
Read MoreDr. Nomsa Gwalla Ogisi, retired UW-Whitewater Special Education faculty member, passed away in Madison, WI on August 20, 2024.
Read MoreTania Ann Bowden, age 48, Delavan, Wi., passed away unexpectedly on August 1, 2024. Born September 16, 1975, to John Bowden and Irene Bowden (Proc) originally from Chicago, IL. Came to Wisconsin from Chicago in 1979. Tania attended Whitewater High School. Tania is survived by her Mom, Irene and James Osgood, Delavan, WI., three daughters Casandra Harris (Casey), Fort Atkinson, WI., Samantha Dohms (Sammy), Cheyenne, Wyoming, Mariah Flynn, Slinger, WI., Laura, Sandy, Bonnie Bowden and many nieces and nephews, Fayetteville TN., and the list goes on. Private visitation and the celebration of life will be held at her Mom’s residence.
Read MoreLee Spencer Murray, 92, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 18, 2024 at Fairhaven in Whitewater. Lee was born on September 24, 1931 in Princeville, Illinois to Harlow and Grace (Larson) Murray. He graduated from Princeville High School in 1949 and the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana with his bachelor’s degree Agriculture-Agronomy in 1957. Lee served in the United States Army from 1951-1953 and received a purple heart during his service in the Korean War. He was a proud member of the Whitewater American Legion, Princeville Masonic Lodge, Whitewater Jaycees and Wisconsin Fertilizer Association. Lee is survived by … Read more
Read MoreUpdated 8/23/24 @ 4:40 p.m. to add information regarding the casket. Leo Jorgen Hansen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle, passed away in Janesville, Wisconsin, on August 18, 2024, at the age of 98. Leo was born in Chicago, Illinois, on October 15, 1925, and spoke Danish before he learned English. He entered the work force at the age of 12, assisting his father, a house painter. When he was 17 years old, the family moved to a 120-acre farm on the southeast edge of Whitewater, Wisconsin. The family initially worked the fields with two teams of workhorses and … Read more
Read MoreWilliam Walton “Bill” WeissMarch 23, 1944 – August 19, 2024MADISON – Bill Weiss went Walking with The King on Aug. 19, 2024. William Walton “Bill” was born on March 23, 1944, to Myrtle (Walton) and William Weiss in Philadelphia, Pa. Bill’s father was serving in World War II when Bill was born. He was 17 months old before he met his father for the first time. Until then, Bill and his mother lived with her parents. His mother and brother died in childbirth when Bill was 2 1/2 years old, and Bill returned to live with his maternal grandparents. Papa … Read more
Read MoreBarbara Lynn (Bressler) Robbins, 62, Dubuque, IA, passed peacefully, August 16, 2024. Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:30 pm Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory, where a prayer service will be held at 7:30 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial for Barbara will be 10:00 am Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant and Rev. Michael Tess as the homilist. A graveside service will follow the same afternoon at 3:00 pm at Maple Ridge Cemetery adjoining the First Lutheran Church of Jordan … Read more
Read MoreJoan Mary Grosinske, 91, of Whitewater passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at Glenwood at Mulberry in Whitewater. Joan was born in Wisconsin Rapids on December 4, 1932 to Edwin and Gertrude (Sauter) Zenisek. She graduated from Neenah High School. While working at AC Sparkplug in Milwaukee, she was introduced to the love of her life Don Grosinske by her sister and brother-In-law. They were married on June 13, 1959 in Neenah, WI. The most important aspect of Joan’s life was her family and being the #1 fan for every event or activity they were involved in. She and … Read more
Read MoreChristine Marie “Chris” Gasperetti, 58, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 surrounded by her loving family at Fort Memorial Hospital. Chris was born on June 9, 1966 in Milwaukee to Joseph and Elaine (Sadowski) Socha. She was raised in Whitewater in her childhood home on Whitewater Lake. Chris graduated from Whitewater High School in 1984. Chris met her husband, Tim, while working at Wenninger in Milwaukee in 1988, and the two later married on September 30, 1989. Tim and Chris were married for exactly 34 years and ten months, and together they raised their daughter, Anna. … Read more
Read MoreJanet 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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