Allenton FD and Kohlsville FD share 2018 Flight for Life Scene Call of the Year Award 

It was an emotional Sunday afternoon at Veterans Park in Allenton as rescue crews from Allenton, Kohlsville, West Bend and Kewaskum gathered to accept an award for saving the lives of two young women involved in a horrific car accident July 14, 2018.

The event was made extra special as one of the people injured in the accident, Elizabeth Carroll, walked onto the field to thank everyone as well.

“I just want to say, ‘thank you’ to everyone,” said Carroll. “Everybody keeps saying how strong I was, but it really started with you guys. If you guys hadn’t gotten me out and been strong for me that day, I wouldn’t be standing here or playing tennis or running.”

Carroll and her friend Emma Sievers were involved in a multiple vehicle accident July 14, 2018 on I-41 near Kewaskum.

Carroll said the actions of firefighters and first responders has inspired her. “I’m going to become an EMT basic; I actually passed my psychomotor exam yesterday and then I take my written exam later this month and then I will work for Hartford Fire and Rescue,” she said. “Thanks again and keep doing what you’re doing because winning this award just shows me you guys do the exact right things you need to for training and you’ve done such an incredible job.”

It took one hour to remove Carroll from the vehicle. First responders said she suffered numerous injuries including two broken arms, a broken femur, a broken and dislocated ankle, torn patellar tendon, radius and ulna fractures in both arms and a severe concussion.

“Instead of putting casts on me the doctors put in 48 screws, six plates, a rod and a wire,” said Carroll.

One year later Carroll took second place with Sievers in the same tennis tournament they were headed to when the accident occurred.

West Bend paramedic Don Peil praised Carroll for her strength and unselfish attitude, even while she was at Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee nursing numerous injuries. “She laid in that bed and all she talked about was her friend Emma,” said Peil. “I’ve told that story countless times since then and I thought that was truly amazing you weren’t concerned about yourself; I thought that was incredible.”

The Allenton Fire Department and Kohlsville Fire Department were jointly awarded the 2018 Flight for Life Scene Call of the Year Award for their roles in patient care.

Assisting Allenton at the scene of the accident were the Kohlsville Fire Department First Responders along with West Bend Fire-Rescue Paramedic Intercept and Kewaskum Fire Department Rescue.

Below are details of the accident from Allenton Deputy Chief of EMS Operations Susan M. Wolf.

Allenton Fire Department responded with mutual aid to Kewaskum Fire Department with an ambulance for a multi-vehicle crash on I-41.  Upon our arrival Kewaskum had left with one patient and when extrication was finished, Allenton FD worked with Flight for Life crew, West Bend Fire paramedics were on scene with Kohlsville Emergency Responders to treat a patient who was transferred to Flight for Life and flown to Froedtert Hospital.  This occurred on Saturday, July 14, 2018.  The patient Allenton FD cared for suffered multiple orthopedic injuries.

Allenton Fire Department and Kohlsville Fire Department will jointly be awarded the 2018 Flight for Life Scene Call of the Year Award for their roles in patient care. Both patients have had full recoveries and went back this year to play at the tennis tournament they were headed when the crash occurred.

Considerable progress on construction of Wisconsin 9/11 Memorial in Kewaskum

There’s been considerable progress made since the last update was posted 10 days ago regarding construction of the Wisconsin 9/11 Memorial in Kewaskum.

Brick layers from Flagstone landscaping of Cedarburg are setting white stone into place for the gallery seating area. Aerial shots paint a good picture of the outline of the park and the concrete pentagon at the center of the mall which will hold the beam of steel recovered from the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Crews on site at Fond du Lac Avenue and First Street expect the first stage of construction to be completed by October.

Winners of the 2019 West Bend Mayor’s Beautification Awards

This week West Bend Mayor Kraig Sadownikow handed out the 2019 Mayor’s Beautification Awards. Winners included: Dist. 1 Bob and Lynn Fuge, Dist. 2 James and Carol Stoltz, Dist. 3. Nancy Luetschwager, Dist. 4 John and Elise Ziarniak, Dist. 5 Jenny and Brad Zuba, Dist. 6 Susan Mueller, Dist. 7 Steve Mazur, Dist. 8 Nancy and Mark Wendt.

Washington County Sheriff presents CPR commendations

Washington County Sheriff Martin Schulteis recognized two people this week for using CPR during emergency situations prior to the arrival of first responders.

Rachel Nelson was recognized for providing CPR to her 59-year-old stepfather during a family gathering in July in the Town of Farmington.

Sheriff Schulteis said Nelson recognized her stepfather wasn’t breathing and had signs indicative of a heart attack. She started CPR until first responders arrived and they used an AED device to help restart his heart. Nelson’s quick action helped save her stepfather’s life.

Matthew Shea was also recognized with a commendation from the Washington County Sheriff for stopping to help at the scene of a single vehicle accident August 6 on I41 in the Town of Polk.

Shea called 911, provided CPR to one of the victims and then assisted a Sheriff’s Deputy and provided CPR to the second victim. Although neither person involved in the accident survived their injuries, Shea is being recognized for exceptional composure under stress and providing CPR at the scene of an accident. Both Shea and Nelson said CPR training is one of the best courses you could ever take.

American Legion Post 36 in West Bend to celebrate centennial

The American Legion, Lt. Ray Dickop Post 36 is turning 100 years old and is planning to celebrate at the post located at 712 Park Avenue in West Bend on Saturday, August 24, 2019 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Everyone is invited!

The post was charted on August 30, 1919 with D.J. Kenny as Post Commander. The organization traces its roots to March 15 – 17, 1919, in Paris, France, in the aftermath of World War I.

The American Legion was federally chartered on September 16, 1919, and quickly became an influential force at the national, state and local levels, dedicated to veterans, military personnel, youth programs and patriotic values.

The American Legion has grown to have more than 13,000 posts around the world and more than 2.2 million wartime-veteran members. Throughout its first century, The American Legion built a legacy on such accomplishments as leading the way to create the U.S. Flag Code, helping start the Veterans Administration, drafting and getting passed the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 – the GI Bill – which transformed America in the second half of the 20th century, and helping veterans receive benefits for health-care conditions based on their honorable service.

The American Legion has nearly 3,000 accredited service officers worldwide who assist veterans with their benefits claims and other concerns. Post 36 is named for Lt. Ray Dickop who died in the line of duty in Fismes, France on August 4, 1918. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and is one of Pershing’s 100.

The post is heavily involved in supporting the West Bend Community and surrounding area. They actively sponsor youth programs, community programs, outreach programs, and scholarships. Members of the post make regular health and welfare visits to injured and sick veterans.

The post has taken on the responsibility of placing American Flags on city streets and members dedicate time providing special event services at parades, funerals, cemeteries and special events.

Posts 36’s dedication to the community dates to the beginning. In 1924, Legion members helped fill over 2,000 sandbags to protect West Bend from the flood waters and assisted the police in patrolling West Bend during the flood.

In 1927, the post organized the dedication of the Doughboy monument at the Old Courthouse which brought more than 12,000 people to the event. In 1928, Post 36 was responsible for purchasing and donating the 5 acres of land that the original St. Joseph’s Hospital was built on and in 1930, the post organized the dedication of the West Bend Airport.

The list continues through the decades. Lt. Ray Dickop Post 36 is proud of its accomplishments and would like to invite everyone to help celebrate their 100-year anniversary on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at 712 Park Avenue, West Bend.

Tennies Ace Hardware donates Weber Grill to WB Moose Lodge

The Schwai brats are going to taste even more delicious as Tennies Ace Hardware in West Bend recently donated a new Weber Grill to the West Bend Moose Lodge. Todd Tennies delivered the new grill on Saturday. The West Bend Moose Lodge has a drive-thru brat stand every weekend.

U.S. Flag flying high outside new Fleet Farm in West Bend

A true sign of progress as the U.S. Flag is now flying high outside the new Fleet Farm on Highway 33 in West Bend. The 192,000-square-foot store is scheduled to open in November.

New Mexican restaurant opens in former Ion Sports Pub in West Bend

There are some changes ahead for Ion Sports Pub, 1102 E. Paradise Drive, in West Bend as the restaurant changes to La Cabana Mexican Grill.

West Bend City Clerk Stephanie Justmann said the owner of Ion Sports Pub filed for a name change earlier this summer. Ion Sports Pub opened May 1, 2017. The location was formerly home to Benders Restaurant & Sports Pub.

The name “Ion” was derived from a combination of the business partners first names Isaac, Oscar and Nora. Earlier this summer a note was placed on the door as the business went dark. The sign “closed for remodeling.”

Little activity was seen until recently when the La Cabana signs were posted on the lawn along Paradise Drive. La Cabana has two other locations in Hubertus and Fort Atkinson. The restaurant website now lists West Bend as its newest location. The site indicates, “opening soon.”

La Cabana describes itself:

WE DON’T JUST MAKE DELICIOUS MEXICAN FOOD. WE MAKE PEOPLE’S DAYS. LACABAÑA WAS BUILT ON THE BELIEF THAT MEXICAN FOOD SHOULD BE SPECIAL, AND WE CARRY THAT BELIEF INTO EVERYTHING WE DO.

At La Cabaña, we wanted to bring together two of our favorite things: traditional Mexican cuisine and American-style breakfast. Whether you order an alambre or a steak fajita, you know you’ll get fresh ingredients and bold flavors. As a family-owned restaurant, we wanted to create a place that every member of your family can enjoy — that’s why even our Little Amigo’s menu is diverse. An opening date will be announced shortly.

Washington Co. to install cable guards between Cabela’s and the Dodge County line on I41

Washington County is taking bids to install a median cable barrier this fall on a section of I41. The first section is out for bid and will cover Highway 144 to County Highway K. Since 2018 officials in Washington County have been working with the Department of Transportation to complete the project to improve safety along I41.

In November 2018 the Washington County Public Works Committee heard from Washington County Sheriff’s Captain Bruce Theusch who reported that 24 crossover crashes with seven fatalities had occurred in Washington County’s jurisdiction in the past five years. Twenty-two more vehicles either struck a median barrier or entered a snow filled median. This crash data shows there is a need for median barriers throughout Washington County’s jurisdiction.

Local leaders and organizations requested WisDOT action on the stretch of interstate. The Washington County Farm Bureau passed a resolution requesting action on this issue.

Through discussion with WisDOT, Washington County has learned of two projects that will likely add median barriers. The first project is through a state and federally funded Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP). The second project is a resurfacing project in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). The projects will likely run concurrently.

The Public Works Committee said it “is our hope the median barrier issue will be completed with these programs.”

Washington County administrator Joshua Schoemann issued a statement about the project.

“I want to thank Highway Commissioner Scott Schmidt for his diligence on this project. ‘Safe and Secure Communities’ along with ‘Effective Mobility and Reliable Infrastructure’ are two of the county’s strategic priorities. Commissioner Schmidt’s work with the DOT ensures safety on I41 and the reduction in horrific cross-over accidents seen in recent years. Washington County continues to work with the state to create ‘an authentic quality of life’ for all residents.”

The DOT will be phasing in the cable guard over two construction cycles – this fall, 2019, and next year, 2020. There will be other resurfacing and safety improvements as part of the projects.

The DOT has indicated the cable guard costs about $150,000 per mile.

Washington County Highway Commissioner Scott Schmidt had a conference call with WisDOT to confirm cable guard will be added to the entire stretch between July of 2019 and October of 2020. The reason for the long project time is because the project will pause during the winter months.

Build out underway for new BBQ restaurant in West Bend

The build out is underway for the new BBQ restaurant set to open before the end of the year in West Bend. David Ebert from D&D Handyman Services in Allenton is framing out the interior.

Clay Covert of Slinger is the one behind the opening of the Billy Sims Barbecue in the Washington Plaza, 1442 W. Washington Street. It’s the strip mall on the north side of the road that includes Little Caesar’s Pizza, Subway, and China Town.

Covert’s store would be on the east end of the strip mall in the former AT&T location. During his research Covert focused on the West Bend area because he wanted “a community that would be big enough to support the restaurant, but not Milwaukee.”

“West Bend seemed like the perfect choice because it’s close to where I live, it’s a good size city and one of the greatest things is nobody really specializes in barbecue in this area,” he said.

“There will be plenty of seating, carry out and we will do a lot of catering,” he said.

Covert is expected to employ about 15-part timers and is expected to open in late fall.

Ribbon cutting for grand opening of The Garden Lounge and WB Mercantile

A perfect day to ring in a new business at 258 N. Main Street in West Bend and celebrate an established neighboring business. The Garden Lounge and WB Mercantile cut a red ribbon in celebration. Owner Jeremy Hahn took us for a tour of both establishments. The Garden Lounge is a hip and trendy new bar that features specialty drinks, live music and a promotional gaming area that has paid out over $75,000. The WB Mercantile offers an array of handcrafted artisan items along with consignment pieces, retail candles, clothing, beads, yarn and home goods.

Traffic backup on Hwy 60 because of windmill transport

Jackson Police said there is expected to be one more wide load coming down Highway 60 as a company from Illinois makes a trek to Manitowoc. A manufacturer out of Illinois is taking side roads and moving the pieces to the USS Badger in Manitowoc for delivery to Canada. Police warn motorists not to pass the trailer and not to go around the roundabout in the opposite direction just to get through.

Updates & tidbits

-The West Bend Fire Department is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.  There are two upcoming events to coincide with this momentous observance: September 21 – Dedication of the Firefighter’s Memorial Bluff honoring Barton and West Bend’s bravest and October 12 – West Bend Fire Department’s 150th celebration and firefighter. Stay tuned.

-Horicon Bank, 1535 W. Paradise Dr., in West Bend is hosting Shred Day on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 10 a.m. – noon. This is a free event with donations accepted. Money raised benefits the Stars & Stripes Honor Flight.

-Common Sense Citizen of Washington County will host Mayor Kraig Sadownikow during its meeting August 29. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the West Bend Moose Lodge, 1721 Chestnut Street in West Bend. Organizers said Sadownikow will likely talk about the volunteer Private Citizens Task Force that is reviewing the West Bend School District this summer. The meeting is open to the public and organizers welcome neighbors to “bring a common-sense friend.”

-There will be a cancer benefit, Sunday, Aug. 25 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. for Kathy McBane. The benefit will be at Jugs Hitching Post in Kohlsville. Funds raised will help with medical expenses for local cancer patient Kathy McBane. There will be basket raffles and a silent auction that closes at 4 p.m. You must be present to claim your prize. Any further questions contact Arlene Kuehl 262-689-5955.

-Hundreds of orange and black monarch butterflies took wing Saturday, Aug. 17 as the residents at Cedar Community and their guests participated in the annual Butterfly Release.

Washington County and FRIENDS, Inc. to partner  

Washington County and FRIENDS, Inc. will partner to streamline services recognizing the overlap between domestic and sexual violence and child maltreatment. Washington County and FRIENDS, Inc. were one of three partnerships within the state that received an award last summer from the WI Department of Children and Families and End Domestic Abuse WI for technical assistance in creating a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to help fill service gaps and create better collaboration between Child Protective Services and Domestic Abuse programs. The partnership will be recognized August 29, 2019 at 10 a.m. at FRIENDS, Inc., 922 S. 18th Avenue.

Letter to the Editor | Transparency in the Kewaskum School District | By Jim Leister

“It’s for the kids.” We always hear that from the administration and certain board members; and what does that really mean? Well if you’re in Kewaskum School district it means they spent thousands of dollars on lawyer fees and wasted administration’s time to persecute board members they don’t agree with.

We were told by the new board president that we wouldn’t do this anymore and we want to be open and transparent. But once again it’s the same old same old, just like it was from the last board president.

When asked why are you attacking board members again and wasting taxpayers money on lawyers’ fees, it was explained that it was important to do this. When I asked why we can’t go through our expenses line by line to explain how we are spending tax dollars, I was told it would cost too much and a waste of the administrator’s time.

This is our money and we should know why it’s getting spent certain ways.

In the April election, you the Public spoke and wanted change. I’m sad to say that even though myself and two other board numbers are trying our best, there has been no change.

We truly have an opportunity for change as we have an open seat now on the board. But before the interview process even began, one board member announced the old candidate that lost, should be reappointed to the board.

This is the same board member that mocked and ridiculed you, the voting public, for your decision in April. We truly do need to make a change with our administration and with our Board President that tells us one thing and does another. Please join me in the interview process so we can make sure we have the right people in the right place.

I write this letter in the spirit of my first amendment right and not as a board member.

God bless  Go Indians   Jim Leister

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