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Wisconsinites should get a flu shot, an updated COVID-19 booster, and take additional steps to protect themselves and others this season as cases of respiratory illness rise nationwide
With respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, influenza, and RSV circulating at high levels nationwide, the 2022-2023 respiratory season has the potential to be severe, especially for young children and older adults. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has issued an alert to Wisconsin health care providers, and urges everyone to get all recommended vaccines, including the updated COVID-19 booster and the flu vaccine, to help prevent and slow the spread of respiratory illnesses.
“Wisconsin hospitals are already seeing an alarming number of hospitalizations due to respiratory illnesses,” said DHS Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake. “It is essential for Wisconsinites to get their updated COVID-19 booster and annual flu vaccine to protect their health, especially with the holiday season right around the corner.”
All Wisconsinites ages 6 months and older can get their COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same time. Everyone 5 years and older should also get an updated COVID-19 booster when eligible. The updated COVID-19 booster provides increased protection against Omicron variants which cause most of the current COVID-19 cases. Data from the updated DHS COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard show less than 15% of Wisconsinites have gotten their updated COVID-19 booster. It is especially important for older people, people with chronic health conditions, people who are pregnant, and young children to get vaccinated to prevent severe disease. For more information on current guidance on COVID-19 vaccination for children, visit the DHS website.
In addition to getting all recommended vaccines, Wisconsinites should take additional steps when planning their holiday celebrations because respiratory viruses spread more easily when people are gathered indoors.
- If you are feeling sick, get tested. Talk to a doctor about getting tested for COVID-19, influenza, RSV, or other respiratory viruses. Wisconsinites can still order free COVID-19 rapid tests and access testing at many community locations across the state.
- If you’re sick, stay home. Especially if you test positive or have symptoms of COVID-19, flu, or other illnesses. This helps protect others, especially those who are most vulnerable. Consider connecting virtually or rescheduling activities so you can celebrate safely.
- Check your COVID-19 Community Level for information about the amount of severe illness in your community before any holiday celebration. If your COVID-19 Community Level is high, wear a well-fitting mask or respirator when you are inside public places around others.
- Frequently wash your hands with soap and water to help prevent the spread of all respiratory illnesses and cover coughs and sneezes to avoid spreading germs.
Find more information about COVID-19 testing on the DHS website. If you need assistance accessing other health care or finding a vaccine provider in your community, call 211 or 877-947-2211.
Visit the DHS website for up-to-date information about COVID-19, the flu, and RSV. Additional information about the 2022-2023 respiratory season can be found in the DHS Weekly Respiratory Report.
Editor’s note: This information was provided in a news release from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. We appreciate having permission to use the image on the homepage by Mojca-Peter from Pixabay.
Type A Notice
NOTICE OF SPRING ELECTION
TOWN OF WHITEWATER, WALWORTH COUNTY, WI
APRIL 4, 2023 SPRING ELECTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that at an election to be held in the Town of Whitewater, on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, the following offices are to be elected to succeed the present incumbents listed. The term for all offices is for two years beginning on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.
Office Incumbent
Town Board chairperson Lowell C. Hagen
Town Board Supervisor #1 Robert Strand
Town Board Supervisor #2 Norman Pruesner
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the first day to circulate nomination papers is Thursday, December 1, 2022 and the final day for filing nomination papers is 5:00 PM, on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 in the office of the Town Clerk.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that if a primary is necessary, the primary will be held on Tuesday, February 21, 2023.
Done in the Town of Whitewater, on the 17th day of November, 2022
Jorja Boiley, Town Clerk-Treasurer
Acceptable Photo ID will be required to vote at this election. If you do not have a photo ID you may obtain a free ID for voting from the Division of Motor Vehicles.
Friday, November 11, was an exciting day for Whitewater High School Tech Ed! The high school Tech Ed Department received a generous donation of a Milltronics CNC milling machine and a Bridgeport mill from Carol Baun and the family of James Baun who owned and operated Baun’s Tooling.
This donation will allow the Whitewater High School Tech Ed Program to continue to update the metal shop area. This equipment will also allow the tech ed program to train more students for youth apprenticeship opportunities where they will receive paid, hands-on training in local manufacturing facilities during the school day! Two students are already working in welding and machining youth apprenticeships at Provisur Technologies this school year.
Thank you to the Baun family for this opportunity and to Troy Clauer of Whitewater Manufacturing for helping us move and set up this new equipment!
Article and Photos Submitted by Mason Pautsch
Whitewater High School Technology and Engineering Teacher
mpautsch@wwusd.org
Editor’s note: The following announcement was posted to the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Association website.
UW-Whitewater’s Patzka and Miller Receive USTFCCCA North Region Honors
NEW ORLEANS–University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s Christian Patzka was named the 2022 NCAA Division III North Region Men’s Athlete of the Year, while the Warhawks’ Jeff Miller was selected the North Region Men’s Coach of the Year by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA).
Patzka claimed the individual title at the NCAA Division III North Regional in 24:08.4. Earlier this season, he took top individual honors at the Tom Hoffman Invitational and the Ken Weidt Classic, as well as placing second at the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) Championship and NCAA Division III Pre-National Invitational. Patzka is the second Warhawk to receive the regional distinction, joining David Fassbender, who won the USTFCCCA award a year ago.
Miller, in his 41st season as head coach at UW-Whitewater, collected the honor for the second straight season. He led the Warhawks to the team title at the NCAA Division III North Regional with 75 points. UW-Whitewater was the team runner-up at the WIAC Championship with 51 points.
The Whitewater Girls’ Basketball team played their season opener against the Cambridge Bluejays on Tuesday night, November 15, at home.
The Whippets got off to a slow start on offense, but got a spark on defense forcing some turnovers and closing the scoring gap to within 1 point with just over 5 minutes left in the first half, trailing by one, 13-14.
Cambridge then got their spark, outscoring the Whippets 0-7 in the last 2 and a half minutes of the first half, putting them in the lead, 13-21.
In the second half, the Whippets offense picked up, scoring nearly even with Cambridge with 23 to their 25 points. The final score was a loss for the Whippets, 36-48.
Defensively, the Whippets forced 29 turnovers overall, including 3 ten-second violations in the backcourt.
Statistical leaders included Kindyl Kilar with 15 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals. Cali Kopecky shot 50% from the field with 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 steal. Zoe Kohl added 5 points and 2 steals.
The Whippets will travel to McFarland Friday for their first conference matchup.
Article Submitted by Kristen Lippens
Whitewater High School Head Girls’ Basketball Coach
klippens@wwusd.org
Photo Courtesy of Bob Mischka
(ELKHORN, WI): The Walworth County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) will host a Community Conversation centered around dementia care needs in our communities on Friday, November 18, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. This listening session is an opportunity for the community to share their experiences with dementia care to influence the development of the 2024-2028 Wisconsin State Dementia Plan. Through these conversations, we hope to identify challenges and solutions that will help us improve our dementia care systems.
“Your opinion matters and is vital in helping develop the 2024 to 2028 State Dementia Plan,” says Dementia Care Specialist Jake Sawyers. “Your feedback is important in helping us assess community dementia care needs and build a dementia care system that works for everyone.”
In 2018, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) published the 2019-2023 State Dementia Plan. The plan focused on four key areas: care in the community, health care, crisis response, and facility-based care. Despite the significant challenges caused by the pandemic, many of the plan’s initiatives, projects, and programs stemming have been created, including guides for dementia-friendly communities and businesses, grant programs to fund caregiver support groups, expansion of research hubs in rural areas, memory screening programs, a brain health curriculum for K-12 schools, the statewide dementia care specialist program, new opportunities to train certified nurse aides, and increased funding for long-term care agencies. DHS is now working with the Steering Committee, leadership teams, and communities to build on these successes and identify remaining challenges as they develop the 2024-2028 State Dementia Plan.
The Community Conversation will be held at the Walworth County Health and Human Services building, 1910 County Road NN, Elkhorn. Please call (262) 741-3273 if you are unable to attend in person and would like to attend virtually via Zoom.
About the Walworth County Aging and Disability Resource Center: The ADRC provides information and assistance to older and disabled adults, their friends, family, caregivers, and the public. We can assist by evaluating your current needs and providing options available to meet the needs of your personal situation.
Editor’s note: The following press release was received from Fort HealthCare.
Fort HealthCare (FHC) Board of Directors announced today that Michael Anderson, MD, will transition to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and President in January 2023. Mary Behling, chair of the Fort HealthCare Board of Directors, stated, “We’re excited about the talent and perspective that Dr. Anderson brings to Fort HealthCare in his new role as CEO. He has consistently demonstrated his dedication to the highest standards of care and improving the health of the community, and we’re confident that his leadership will position the organization well going forward.”
Anderson has held numerous positions within Fort HealthCare since 2003 in addition to his role as an Otolaryngologist at the FHC ENT clinic. Besides Chief of Surgery, Medical Director of Perioperative Services, and Chief of Staff, he has also served on the FHC Board of Directors for nine years and most recently held the position of Sr. VP, Medical Affairs and Chief Medical Officer.
Anderson stated, “Healthcare is evolving at a rapid pace. I’m honored to step into this role and navigate that future for the organization. As a physician, I understand the importance of quality and value-based healthcare, while sustaining medical excellence to the community. Fort HealthCare has a very bright future, and I feel extremely fortunate to be a part of it.”
The current CEO and President, Michael Wallace, will be retiring at the end of the year. He has been with FHC since 2006 and will continue in an advisory role for the next year. Under his leadership, Fort HealthCare has received several recognitions, such as Top Workplace from the Journal Sentinel, Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital by The Chartis Center, and a 5-Star rating from CMS. In addition, Wallace has worked closely with the Wisconsin Hospital Association for the past 10 years and served as Board Chair in 2016. He was honored with the prestigious “Distinguished Service Award” by WHA last year.
When asked about what he is most proud of, Wallace said, “The people. We have a strong culture at FHC that has allowed us to make a difference in the health of Jefferson County. Any recognition or successes we’ve had are a direct reflection of everyone who makes FHC what it is — the board, the providers, the staff, and the community. We have a strong management team and Dr. Anderson is uniquely positioned to lead FHC over the next decade.” He adds, “FHC has been the joy of my professional career. I’m fortunate that my family and I found our way to Fort Atkinson! I look forward to staying involved with the community.”
To learn more about Michael Anderson, MD, visit https://www.forthealthcare.com/physician/michael-anderson-otolaryngologist-ent/.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by the Whitewater Kiwanis Breakfast Club.
Rollie Cooper was recognized for his tremendous achievements and work on behalf of the children of Whitewater. Whitewater Kiwanis Breakfast Club members Jean Bromley, Lorrie Koppein and Patrick Taylor presented Rollie Cooper with a Municipal Commendation and declared October 30, 2022 to be “Rollie Cooper Day.”
Following is the proclamation:
Obituaries
Sally A. Schutte, age 73, of Whitewater, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 21, 2026, while at Hearthstone Memory Care in Whitewater. Sally was born on November 6, 1952, to Roy and Elsie (Rohloff) Haas. Sally married William Schutte in the spring of 2003. Sally grew up on the family farm in the Town of Hebron and graduated from Jefferson High School. She dedicated nearly her entire career to Fort HealthCare, where her hard work and versatility shone through various roles. Over the years, she served in housekeeping and medical records, Center for Dermatology. Sally … Read more
Zachariah “Zach” Schoenke, 41, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. He was born April 4, 1985, to Keith W. Schoenke and Kathleen Schoenke in Fort Atkinson, WI. He grew up and graduated from Whitewater High School in 2003. Zach worked various jobs over the years but was currently working at Cracker Barrel in Janesville. He was a big Packers Fan and liked to play fantasy football. He enjoyed reading, cooking, and watching horror shows. Zach fiercely loved his son, Lincoln, his sisters, Cami and Cary, his mom and stepdad, and his aunt Robin. He will be dearly … Read more
Carla Winn, 82, died September 5, 2026. Funeral Service will be at 12:00 PM, Saturday, September 12, 2026, at East Heights United Methodist Church, 4407 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67218, followed by a burial at 2:00 PM at White Chapel Memorial Garden 1806 N Oliver Ave. Carla is preceded in death by her parents, Vivian Dwight and Wilma Lois Krehbiel; and sister, Jennifer Krehbiel. She is survived by husband, Stephen; daughter, Ashley (Clint) Gagel, of Overland Park; siblings, Paul (Kay) Krehbiel, of Socorro, NM, Lynn (Bill) Oetting, of Wichita, Ellen (John) Querner, of Wichita, Teresa Woodson, of Lawrence, KS, … Read more
Susan Miller Celebration of Life There will be a gathering of friends and acquaintances at Susan’s Farm Store to celebrate Susan’s life on Saturday, September 19th from 2-5 p.m. at N6623 Lake Lorraine Rd., Delavan, Wisconsin
Our loving mother, JoAnn E Harrop, age 95, passed away on September 11, 2026. Our sorrow is deep, but we are filled with gratitude for the many years we had with her. Even as her mind was failing, she remained strong and appreciative of all who cared for her. JoAnn was born on January 13, 1931, daughter to Fred Braun and Evelyn Braun {Storck). She was raised in Whitewater, Wisconsin by her grandparents, Otto and Edith Storck. She attended Whitewater High School and helped at the Storck tavern where she met her husband Earl C. Harrop. They married on November … Read more
Russell O. Johnson “Russ,” 88, passed away on September 4, 2026 in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Russell was born on July 12, 1938, in Janesville, Wisconsin. Russ grew up in Janesville, and after high school he joined the Air Force on May 1, 1958, serving as an aircraft mechanic until June 12, 1962. He then worked at Parker Pen in Janesville for a time, where he met his future wife, Avis. After marrying Avis Mason in April 1964, Russ worked for Gillman Manufacturing for a time, then began a career at Dana until its closing in 1980. In 1981, Russ started working … Read more
Marcia Zingg, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, at the age of 75. Marcia will be remembered for her unwavering love, remarkable strength, generous spirit, and lifelong devotion to her family. She shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Jeffrey Zingg, who considered her not only his wife but also his best friend, business partner, and the love of his life. Together, Marcia and Jeffrey built a successful life rooted in perseverance, hard work, laughter, and love. As entrepreneurs in Whitewater, Wisconsin, they owned and managed new car franchises and … Read more
Amanda Jean Hunter was born to Ralph and Malinda (Thomas) Hunter of Whitewater, Wisconsin, on October 6, 1976. She passed away on August 4, in Fort Worth, Texas, where she lived with her family. Amanda passed peacefully in the hospital, surrounded by her loved ones. Amanda was a kind-hearted free spirit with an unmistakable hippie warmth. Generosity, spontaneity, a quick wit, a macabre sense of humor, and an open heart were traits that she embraced. She was a tireless champion of those in need, an innate characteristic that became among the best of her qualities. She proved to be a … Read more
Ellen Eichmiller, 82, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Ellen was born on September 10, 1943, in Monroe, Wisconsin, to Chester “Guy” and Irene (née Holmen) Steig. She married the love of her life, Paul Eichmiller, on December 7, 1963, and together they made their home in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Ellen spent much of her working life as a secretary at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, where she formed many lasting friendships and memories. Ellen cherished her family and friends and treasured the time she spent with those closest to her. She was known for her love of … Read more
Janet Quinn, age 71, of Jefferson passed away on Thursday, August 20th. Janet was born on December 22nd, 1954 in St. Joseph, MI to Robert Mounsey and Edith Christison Mounsey. She was a granddaughter to Herbert Bragg Mounsey, Charlotte Mounsey, and Ester Christison West. She married Michael Durden in 1979 and later married Eury Quinn Jr. (J.R.) in 1988. Janet grew up in Benton Harbor, MI, and subsequently lived in New York and Arkansas before moving to Wisconsin in 2016. She was a dedicated caregiver to her disabled Mother, and worked as a custodian for various employers over the years. … Read more
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