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UW Extension Presents Online: Understanding the Emerald Ash Borer: From Identification to Action

March 27, 2024

Editor’s note: The following press release was received from The UW-Madison Division of Extension Horticulture Program.

The UW-Madison Division of Extension Horticulture Program has partnered with the UW Insect Diagnostic Lab to provide a free, online program for the public focused on Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in Wisconsin. The program airs Monday, April 1, 1–2 p.m. on Zoom. 

There is no cost to attend, though registration is required. Register at go.wisc.edu/ExtEAB.

Learn how to identify ash trees, recognize the signs and symptoms of EAB, and understand the biology of this invasive insect. The program will also cover what to do when EAB affects trees on private property and the strengths and weaknesses of different management options.

Understanding the Emerald Ash Borer: From Identification to Action
Monday, April 1, 1–2 p.m. | Zoom Webinar
Register Now

Led by PJ Liesch, Extension Entomologist and director of the UW Insect Diagnostic Lab, this program will consist of an informative presentation followed by live Q&A to answer participants’ questions.

This program will also be recorded and sent to anyone who registers.

Visit go.wisc.edu/ExtEAB to learn more and register!


These webinars are hosted by the UW-Madison Extension Horticulture Program. For upcoming events and learning opportunities, visit hort.extension.wisc.edu/events. Contact horticulture.webinar@extension.wisc.edu if you have questions about the program. 

Welcome to Holy Week Services at First United Methodist Church

March 26, 2024

First United Methodist Church welcomes all to our services during this Holy Week.

The Holy Thursday service at 7:00 p.m. includes communion. You need not be a member of our church, or any church, to participate. Our communion liturgy often begins with words spoken on Jesus’ behalf inviting “all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin, and seek to live in peace with one another.”

The Good Friday service is ecumenical, starting at our church at noon, processing to the Congregational UCC at 12:45, and finally to First English Lutheran Church at 1:30, and concluding at 2:00. All are welcome to attend any or all of the services. A number of participants will walk from one church to another.

On Easter Sunday we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection with an 8:00 service in the Chapel and a 10:00 service in the sanctuary. The choir will be singing with brass accompaniment at the 10:00 service, which concludes with the Hallelujah Chorus. Everyone who knows the music is welcome to join in.

Jersey Mike’s Donates 100% of SALES to Special Olympics WI Today

March 26, 2024


By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com

It’s rather common for a fast food restaurant to donate something like 10% of their sales for a few hours or even a day to a designated school or nonprofit organization. This is the 14th year, though, that Jersey Mike’s stores nationwide have scheduled a “Day of Giving” when 100% of their sales are donated to a cause that’s selected by the restaurant owners in each market. This year that date is Wednesday, March 27, and all 41 stores in the state will be donating their sales to Special Olympics WI.

According to Jersey Mike’s, “At the first nationwide fundraiser in 2011, all of Jersey Mike’s 454 locations raised $600,000 for 66 charities. Since then, Jersey Mike’s annual Month of Giving has raised more than $88 million for local charities. This March, Jersey Mike’s hopes to exceed last year’s record-breaking national fundraising total of $21 million and help local charities striving to fulfill their missions and make a difference.”

WHS Robotics Team Prepares for Global Competition with Community Support

March 26, 2024

Editor’s note: The following press release was received from the Whitewater Unified School District.

Ferradermis earned the prestigious FIRST Impact Award at the Northern Lights Regional in Duluth, Minnesota, earlier this month. This achievement secured the team’s spot in the championship competition.

The FIRST Championship is a global competition for youth robotics teams, providing a platform for collaboration and creativity. Ferradermis will face off against 83 other Impact Award winners, vying for the opportunity to join the FIRST Hall of Fame.

The team’s trip to Houston was made possible by generous donations from several community members, organizations, and supporting businesses that covered the entire cost.

“I cannot express enough gratitude for the incredible support our program continues to receive from our community,” said Laura Masbruch, the team’s advisor. “I’m confident the team will represent WUSD well in Houston and do their best to bring home another title for our booming program!”

Special regard goes to an anonymous donor, Applied Material Solutions, the Weber family, anonymous WUSD staff, NAES, The Coburn Company, Streib Construction, and Keystone Real Estate Investments LLC for their considerable contributions of $1,000 or more to the Ferradermis program for this trip. The team also received donations from others across the community.

For more information about Ferradermis and the team’s journey to the FIRST Championship, visit www.ferradermis.org.

Local Student Accepted for Enrollment at Palmer College of Chiropractic

March 26, 2024

Katherine Staniszewski of Whitewater has been accepted for enrollment for the 2024 spring trimester in the Doctor of Chiropractic degree program at Palmer College of Chiropractic’s Main Campus in Davenport, Iowa.

Palmer College of Chiropractic, the first and largest college in the chiropractic profession, has campuses in Davenport, Iowa; San Jose, California; and Port Orange, Florida.

Photo Gallery: Kiwanis Cops ‘n Kids Reading Program at Lincoln Elementary

March 26, 2024

Photos courtesy of Tom Ganser, taken at the March 15 event.

Comment on the Police Department Facebook page: “Last week our staff had the opportunity to read to two classes at Lincoln Elementary through our Kiwanis Cops ‘N Kids book reading program. Each student was provided with a free book and as always, their questions did not disappoint!”

Draw the Circle Wide Lecture Series: Ending the Genocide: Towards a Shared Future for Palestinians & Jews

March 25, 2024

The First United Methodist Church of Whitewater is excited to welcome Janan Najeeb and Dr. Rachel Buff to our Draw the Circle Wide Lecture Series.

The public is invited to the Draw the Circle Wide Lecture Series to hear Janan Najeeb and Dr. Rachel Buff on Sunday, April 21 at the First United Methodist Church sanctuary, 145 S. Prairie St., Whitewater, WI 53190. From 1:00 – 2:30 adults and youth alike are invited to their presentation, “Ending the Genocide: Towards a Shared Future for Palestinians and Jews,” as they examine the current and historical struggles for hope, healing and justice in Israel and Palestine. Following a question-and-answer opportunity a reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall.

Janan Najeeb is a Palestinian American Muslim and founded the Milwaukee Muslim Women’s Coalition in 1994. A well-known tireless justice activist, Najeeb is a noted go-to resource for media, academic institutions, and interfaith organizations. Dr. Buff is Chair of the History Department at UW-Milwaukee and a founding member of Milwaukee Jewish Voice for Peace.

Najeeb is the convener of the Wisconsin Coalition for Justice in Palestine (which includes more than 60 organizations), of which Dr. Buff is co-chair of its Executive Committee. Together, they will bring us timely insights to educate and enlighten us on the work of diverse communities toward a permanent ceasefire and resolution to years of hostility and occupation.

The First United Methodist Church’s Draw the Circle Wide series works to bring engaging programs focusing on social justice issues of interest to the Whitewater community.

Fort HealthCare Receives Generous Donation from Trinity Lutheran in Honor of Dr. Frank Beran

March 25, 2024
Frank Beran, MD

Fort HealthCare is pleased to announce the receipt of a generous donation of $12,050 from Trinity Lutheran Church of Fort Atkinson in memory and honor of Dr. Frank Beran, a beloved figure in our community whose legacy of compassion and service continues to inspire.

Dr. Beran, who served the Fort Atkinson community for over 50 years, left an unforgettable mark on those he cared for and worked alongside. His commitment to excellence in patient care, his dedication to his staff, and his boundless love for the community were evident throughout his career.

Stephanie Beran, his devoted wife of 48 years, fondly recalls Dr. Beran’s impact on the lives of countless individuals. “He impacted generations, and we’re hoping to keep that going,” she reflects.

In tribute to Dr. Beran’s legacy of service and generosity, Trinity Lutheran Church has directed this donation to assist patients in settling medical debts, exemplifying the spirit of generosity and compassion that defined Dr. Beran’s life. Inspired by Dr. Beran’s spirit of generosity, they matched the $6,025 in memorial gifts, doubling the impact of this honorary donation.

“Frank was known for his dedication to the well-being of his community. He always extended a helping hand to those in need, whether through providing medical advice or offering a listening ear. His patients were not just patients to him, they were friends,” noted Stephanie.

“We are deeply touched by Trinity Lutheran Church’s gracious donation in honor of Dr. Beran,” states Michael Anderson, MD, Fort HealthCare President & CEO. “This donation embodies the essence of community support and reflects Dr. Beran’s legacy of care and compassion.”

Stephanie expresses her hope that Trinity Lutheran Church’s donation would inspire others to lend a hand in supporting the community, saying, “You never know the impact one idea has to inspire someone else.”

Pastor Amy Waelchli expressed the church’s commitment to honoring Dr. Beran’s memory through acts of kindness and support for those in need. “Dr. Beran’s life of service inspired us to extend a helping hand to individuals facing medical debt within our community. This donation is a testament to his lasting impact on our community.”

Stephanie recalled a quote from former President Jimmy Carter, “The only things that we can truly give to each other are the only things that we truly need—an ear to listen, a heart to care, a word of encouragement and a hand to help.” She elaborated, “This is how Frank lived, and this is what he was to his community.”

The funds will be utilized to alleviate the medical debt burden of deserving patients, including individuals facing significant challenges such as terminal illness.

Fort HealthCare extends its heartfelt gratitude to Trinity Lutheran Church and all those who contributed to this initiative. Through their generosity, Dr. Beran’s legacy of compassion will continue to uplift and support those in need within our community.

Obituaries

Obituary: Ed McManaway, 89

Ed McManaway passed peacefully on March 18, 2024. He was born on January 13, 1935 to Everett and Inez McManaway of Wheeling, Illinois as the seventh of eight children. He married the love of his life, Betty Guge on February 16, 1957. In the months following their wedding, the two of them had quite the adventures. The week after their wedding they drove to California for Ed’s Army heavy vehicle training for 6 weeks. Upon finishing his training, they had less than a week to drive back to Chicago so he could catch a flight to begin his 18 months … Read more

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Obituary: Donald O.C. Klitzke, 85

Donald O.C. Klitzke, age 85, lifelong resident of Whitewater, passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at Milestone Senior Living in Stoughton, WI. He was born on January 21, 1939, to the late Herman O. C. Klitzke and Doris E. (Wescott) Klitzke. In his earlier years he helped his parents on the family farm in Lima Township, was a milk hauler and later worked for Foremost in Whitewater and Arrow Products in Elkhorn. Over the years, he attended many farm auctions and he continued to have a passion for older farm tractors and equipment. He enjoyed playing euchre with his … Read more

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Obituary: Juliette L. Horner, 13

It is with our heavy hearts, that we share the passing of Juliette L. Horner, 13, of Whitewater. She was a precious young girl who attended Whitewater Middle School as a 7th grader. She always came to school with a smile on her face, looking forward to seeing her friends. Juliette was involved in clubs, choir, and she enjoyed playing her flute in band. Juliette also enjoyed gaming and socializing with her friends. She excelled in creativity through building Legos, knitting, origami, and drawing. Juliette’s perfect summer day would consist of: Having a family cookout, spending hours swimming in the … Read more

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Obituary: Mary Jean Sorensen, 75 (Updated with arrangements)

Mary Jean Sorensen, 75, Whitewater passed away peacefully on Monday, March 11, 2024, at Fairhaven Senior Living in Whitewater. Mary was born on May 1, 1948, in Elkhorn, WI to Glenn and Doris (Christiansen) Morgan. She grew up in rural Darien, WI, where she attended a one-room schoolhouse through elementary school and enjoyed many creative adventures with her cousins and four siblings. She looked forward to occasional rides along with her father on his milk truck route and developed a lasting love of flower gardens from her mother, along with an aptitude for preserving massive quantities of homegrown apples and … Read more

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Obituary: Charlotte L. Seiler, 98

Charlotte L. Seiler, 98, passed away Saturday, March 9, 2024 at Fairhaven Assisted Living Facility (Hearthstone) in Whitewater, WI. She was born August 4, 1925 in Evanston, Illinois to Dorthea G. and Raymond C. Taylor.  She moved to Libertyville, Illinois in 1933.  Char graduated from Libertyville High School in 1943. She met her husband, Maynard H (Si) Seiler, Sr. when they were in high school and were married in 1945. They remained married for 41 years until his death in 1986. While living in Libertyville, she was a member of St. Lawrence Episcopal Church, which will be her final resting … Read more

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Obituary: Sandra Madsen, 84

Sandy passed away peacefully at home on Monday, March 04, 2024. She was born in Fond du Lac, WI on May 24, 1939, to James and Lorraine Fisher. Sandy graduated from Whitewater City High School in 1957 and received her Operators license from Wisconsin College of Beauty in 1959.  She worked as a hairdresser until her retirement. She married Irv Madsen at 1st English Lutheran Church in Whitewater on August 6, 1960. Sandy loved bowling, golfing, playing cards with friends, volunteering at church, the Thrift Shoppe, delivering Meals on Wheels, Women’s Federation and the Jayceette’s. She is survived by her … Read more

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Obituary: Carmen A. Catania, 85

Carmen A. Catania passed away peacefully at home on February 29, (Leap Day) 2024. During his short time in hospice care, he was visited by many neighbors and friends. Carmen was born in Milwaukee, WI, on February 19, 1939, the first child of Jacob J. and Hazel A. Catania. He is predeceased by his sister, Marianna Heinz, and is survived by his brothers, John (Beth) and Joseph (Peggy) Catania; his beloved sons, Mario (wife, Amy and son, Dylan) and Anthony (wife, Terri and children, Joshua, Niki, and Samuel). He also leaves behind his devoted wife Mary Lou, and stepdaughter, Melissa … Read more

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Obituary: JoAnn Bickle (Frye), 63, of Fort Atkinson

JoAnn Bickle (Frye), 63, of Fort Atkinson passed away peacefully on February 29th in her home after courageously battling cancer for two years, with the help of Rainbow Hospice and her family by her side. JoAnn was the youngest daughter of Donald and Betty Frye. Preceded in death by her parents, in-laws (Wayne and Norma Bickle), and sisters (Sarah and Donna). JoAnn graduated from Fort Atkinson High School and married her high school sweetheart Mark Bickle. This past December they celebrated 40 years of marriage. Mark and JoAnn made Fort Atkinson their home, raising their family here. JoAnn’s proudest accomplishment … Read more

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Obituary: Daryl Dean Pieper, 80

Daryl Dean Pieper, 80, of Whitewater passed away on February 28, 2024 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Daryl was born on October 6, 1943 in Fort Atkinson to Melvin and Fern (Meinert) Pieper.  He grew up in Whitewater and was active in baseball, basketball, and excelled in football.  Daryl also sang in the choir and played in the school band.  He received the Spade and Spoon award in his junior year.  Daryl graduated Whitewater High School as the class president, homecoming king, and student council president.  He also received All Conference award for football both junior and … Read more

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Obituary: Amanda R. Pohle, 33

Amanda R. Pohle, 33 of Whitewater passed away peacefully yet unexpectedly at her home on February 5th, 2024.  She was born in Mukwonago on September 1st, 1990, (Labor day that year) to Karen Pohle and Paul “P.J.” Heytens. Amanda lived in Mukwonago with mother and at the age of 2 years old moved to West Allis where she was raised by her mother & Stepdad Scott Kaboskey until she became an adult. When she was 16 she moved to West Bend where she graduated from West Bend-West High School. After graduation she & her family moved to Waukesha where she … Read more

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