Dear Editor,
There isn’t an individual or family member in our community that hasn’t been touched by the recent safety threats witnessed on television and most recently, within our own community. It is during these stressful experiences that we, as a community, begin to fully comprehend potential threats and how to successfully respond to them.
Much bravery and courage was displayed in Whitewater on Friday, April 7. Assistance was provided by law enforcement personnel and countless individuals who helped to maintain safety and provide comfort to those who were personally touched by this incident. Many of the responses went unnoticed but not unappreciated.
The Whitewater Police Department would like to formally extend appreciation to our community. Thank you to all the civilian police department personnel, including the dispatchers and support personnel who did not leave until late into the night, working to restore order throughout the community.
Many unrelated emergency needs continued to funnel into the communications center throughout the incident, and we didn’t miss a beat due to their loyalty and hard work. Thank you to our public safety partners, rescue personnel and Nelson’s bus service personnel that transported hundreds of children within minutes of receiving the request.
Thank you to all of our school officials, from the superintendent to teachers and custodial staff, everyone poised to respond to any emergency while simultaneously lending comfort and guidance to many who were thrust into this unknown event.
Our thanks is also extended to the neighbors whose streets and driveways were shut down, yet they graciously opened their homes to provide bathrooms and offer food to emergency personnel.
Lastly, our appreciation is extended to every student and parent that supported one another; their patience during these moments of chaos made a true and lasting impact.
Over the past several days, tasty home baked goods, delicious treats from The Sweet Spot and beautifully decorated cards have been delivered to the Police Department. The outpouring support and appreciation shared by our community has been abundant.
Today, public safety requires a dynamic, fluid and courageous response. It is truly an honor to partner with the community of Whitewater as we collectively serve and protect our community together.
Sincerely,
Whitewater Police Department
