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Today is Tuesday, June 16, 2026
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The Whitewater Community Foundation has presented the spring 2026 grants, which include $500 for Studio 84, $485.58 for the League of Women Voters – Whitewater Area, $750 to Clyde’s Closet, and $750 for the Fairhaven Foundation on behalf of the Fairhaven Pollinator Garden.
“These organizations are doing important work to benefit the Whitewater community. Providing this funding to fuel their efforts and make a difference in the lives of our residents is our key purpose,” said Virginia Coburn, chair of the Community Action Grant committee for the Whitewater Community Foundation.
Following is more information about each grant:
Members of the Whitewater Community Foundation board of directors were delighted to visit Studio 84 and present a Community Action Grant check for $500 to help fund their ongoing Second Saturdays community art event. From left are Lynnette Gmur, Studio 84 director, Virginia Coburn, WCF board member, Karina Pittro, Studio 84 artistic mentor, and Kat Mawhinney and Kristine Zaballos, WCF board members.
Second Saturdays have long been a community opportunity to create art. Hosted by Studio 84 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the second Saturday of each month, there’s a fun new activity to dig into every time. Studio 84 provides the art supplies, the ideas and direction, and the space to explore and get messy. All ages and abilities are welcome; no registration required. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information visit studio84inc.org.
Members of the League of Women Voters – Whitewater Area visited the Whitewater Community Foundation office to receive a Community Action Grant check for $485.58 to sponsor the travel expenses for author James Bonella for a community event that will take place on 9/16/26 at the Whitewater Public Library. Bonella will be discussing his book, “An Eye for An I: Growing up with blindness, bigotry and family mental illness.”
The LWV of Whitewater Area is a nonpartisan political organization encouraging informed and active participation in government and influencing public policy through education and advocacy. For more information, visit my.lwv.org/wisconsin/whitewater-area.
The Whitewater Community Foundation was delighted to visit Clyde’s Closet, a little free pet pantry located at the headquarters of Albert’s Dog Lounge Rescue near Whitewater Lake to present $750 to be used towards pet supplies and the cost of constructing a garden shed to store and protect the pet supplies. Virginia Coburn, WCF board member, presented the check to Mandy Lewis, founder, owner and president of the board of directors of Clyde’s Closet and Albert’s Dog Rescue.
Clyde’s Closet aims to ensure that no pet or pet owner has to go without the necessary resources they need to thrive, and that no pet is surrendered to a rescue or shelter for lack of resources. For more information, visit albertsdoglounge.org/clydes-closet.
The Whitewater Community Foundation recently visited Fairhaven Senior Services to present its foundation $750 to be used for signage for the new Fairhaven Pollinator Gardens. The high-quality signs, which will denote the common and Latin names of the plants in the garden, will be easily visible to residents of Fairhaven and their guests.
Located blocks away from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Fairhaven Senior Services offers intergenerational programming that very few other senior living facilities can. For more information, visit fairhaven.org. For more information about the Fairhaven Pollinator Garden, visit facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583432195592.
“The Foundation remains committed to funding projects that foster community engagement. We encourage more local organizations to apply for our upcoming grants and continue making a positive impact,” said Coburn.
Organizations interested in pursuing a Whitewater Community Foundation Action Grant should contact info@whitewatercommunityfoundation.org. Details about the Community Action Grants can be found at https://whitewatercommunityfoundation.org/community-action-grants/
The next grant requests are due October 31, 2026.
The Foundation continues to provide and host scholarships for Whitewater High School students and also offers fiscal sponsorship to organizations that are seeking 501(c) (3) status or require temporary pass-through funds for worthy community projects.
More information about the Whitewater Community Foundation can be found at whitewatercommunityfoundation.org and on Facebook.
The Whitewater Community Foundation’s mission is to “enhance quality of life in the Whitewater area via educational, cultural, charitable or benevolent expenditures.”
Editor’s Note: The above was provided by the Whitewater Community Foundation.
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by United Women in Faith.
The City of Whitewater invites residents, visitors, and community partners to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of the city’s new fishing piers at Cravath Lakefront Park, 341 S. Fremont Street, on Tuesday, June 16, at 5:30 p.m. The new fishing piers represent a significant investment in outdoor recreation, accessibility, and community amenities. Since opening, the piers have quickly become popular destinations for anglers, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and visitors looking to enjoy Whitewater’s natural resources.
The ribbon cutting ceremony will provide an opportunity for community members to celebrate the project, learn about future improvements planned for the area, and recognize the partnerships and support that helped make the project possible. These projects are part of the city’s ongoing commitment to expanding outdoor recreation opportunities and creating spaces that residents and visitors can enjoy for years to come.
The city also thanks residents who have provided feedback and observations regarding the new facilities. Community input helps staff identify issues, respond quickly, and ensure these investments continue to meet the needs of the community.
Residents who have questions, concerns, or would like to report an issue are encouraged to use
the City’s Citizen Complaint or Question Form at:
https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/forms/33631
The City of Whitewater Common Council on June 16 will consider action on a letter of intent [LOI] which has been received from Anderson Ashton, Inc. regarding the approximately 7.21-acre City-owned property located at 1127 E. Bluff Road (Parcel #A405400001).
According to the Council agenda, “The proposal contemplates a coordinated development consisting of two complementary uses: a new approximately 30,000-square-foot Piggly Wiggly grocery store and a new approximately 12,000-square-foot Whitewater Early Childhood Education and Childcare Center. According to the developer, the childcare facility could potentially serve approximately 150 children, subject to final design and licensing requirements.
“The proposed development is intended to address two community needs identified through previous economic development and housing discussions: expanded grocery access and increased childcare capacity. A recent “leakage report” from Redevelopment Resources identified that approximately $8.9 million in grocery sales leaves Whitewater annually. The need for increased childcare capacity has been documented and discussed at multiple public meetings.
“The developer estimates the project would generate more than $10 million in private investment while
creating new employment opportunities and expanding the City’s tax base. The childcare project will also
unlock the extremely generous $10 million funding commitment from Billie and Steve Moksnes.
“As part of the LOI, Anderson Ashton has requested:
= Municipal support for the entitlement and approval processes necessary to advance the project.
= Authorization for City staff to negotiate a Development Agreement.
- Conveyance of approximately 7.21 acres for development.
- City participation in eligible public infrastructure improvements in an amount up to $500,000.
“The LOI is non-binding and serves as a framework for continued due diligence, site planning, financial
analysis, infrastructure review, traffic evaluation, and negotiation of final project terms. If the Common
Council accepts the LOI, staff’s next step would be to negotiate a formal Development Agreement with
Anderson Ashton. The developer will also conduct due diligence on the property. The proposed land sale
would subsequently be reviewed and considered by the Parks and Recreation Commission (PARC), and
any negotiated Development Agreement would be reviewed by the Community Development Authority
(CDA) before returning to the Common Council for final consideration and approval.”
_________________________________________________________________________________
By way of comparison, our ALDI store is 20,000 square feet, and when that store opened it was indicated that the average grocery store from other major companies is approximately 38,000 square feet. As indicated above, this store would be anticipated to be approximately 30,000 square feet. The property in question has been owned by the city for many years and is behind the east side Kwik Trip. Further information regarding the potential project may be found in the Common Council agenda by clicking on #28.
According to the Piggly Wiggly website, the company founded the first true self-service grocery store in the U.S. in 1916 in Memphis, Tennessee. “Today there are more than 500 Piggly Wiggly stores in 18 states,” they indicate. “Piggly Wiggly stores are independently owned and operated…” According to the Oshkosh Northwestern, “Piggly Wiggly has a particularly strong presence in Wisconsin with more than 85 grocery stores in the state, second only to Alabama.”
Whitewater Public Library Board of Trustees – Monday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Budget Presentation by Rachelle Blitch, Head of Finance
Whitewater Public Library, Meeting Room 2
431 West Center St., Whitewater, WI, 53190
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/290335185127831?p=j5mSsFbXPC6Fnw0TUk
Meeting ID: 290 335 185 127 831
Passcode: gY6kH9VR
Telephone: +1 (929) 229-5663
City of Whitewater Common Council – Tuesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Presentation of Digital Sign Policy and Sign Reservation Form, Update on Twin Oaks Mobile Home Park License, Update on Quasi-Judicial items on Agendas memo.- City Attorney; Resolution updating the City of Whitewater’s Strategic Goals and update from the Common Council Visioning session from March 14, 2026; Amendment to Ordinance 9.04.010 – Injury to Squirrels and Pets – Permission
Required-; Discussion and Possible Action regarding the Community Survey Draft Revision; Review of Letter of Intent Submitted on Lot 1RA (Parcel #/A405400001
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI 53190
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/230208847701985?p=5Qmq9SUqtNH6gJztL6
Meeting ID: 230 208 847 701 985
Passcode: uW3E8dW6
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,449538375#
Phone conference ID: 449 538 375#
City of Whitewater Community Development Authority – Thursday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI 53190
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please note that although every effort will be made to provide for virtual participation, unforeseen
technical difficulties may prevent this, in which case the meeting may still proceed as long as there is a
quorum. Should you wish to make a comment in this situation, you are welcome to call this number:
(262) 473-0108.
Microsoft Teams meeting
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/237248599969546?p=A2bH0T4i9rju7n0HpN
Meeting ID: 237 248 599 969 546
Passcode: Xn6DD7rw
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,804738178#
Phone conference ID: 804 738 178#
Community members are invited to join writer Chris Welch, who will present on “The Tactics of Writing Horror Fiction.” Afterwards, he will show how those tactics were used in his story “The Water Tower Witch of Whitewater,” which was published this year in the anthology A Wisconsin Harvest of Horror. His story is about three university students and their perceptions of Whitewater’s dark legends while being menaced by the most dreadful legend, Whitewater’s infamous witch.
This event will be held in Meeting Room 2 of Whitewater Public Library at 431 W. Center St. in Whitewater on Thursday, June 18 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM
This program is for adults. Registration is preferred. Visit whitewaterlibrary.org/events to register in advance. You may also email hswanson@whitewater-wi.gov or call 262-473-0113 to register, or with any questions.
This 4th of July, we have the honor of celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary, and we want to make it truly unforgettable- by recognizing the people who make our freedom possible
We are inviting Veterans and Active-Duty Military to be part of the Whitewater 4th of July Parade as our honored Grand Marshals.
- Proudly represent your branch
- Wear your uniform ( if you’d like!)
- All branches welcome
- Active Duty and Veterans Invited
This is more than a parade – it’s a chance for our community to come together and recognize the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of those who have served our country.
If you have served, we would be honored to have you join us. If you know someone who has served, please encourage them to participate.
State Senator Mark Spreitzer (D – Beloit) has kicked off his re-election campaign for a second term representing Wisconsin’s 15th State Senate District, which includes most of Rock County and the Whitewater area in Walworth and Jefferson Counties. Spreitzer turned in more than 1,000 signatures from district residents to have his name officially placed on the ballot.
“It has been an honor to serve the people of the 15th District in the State Senate,” said Sen. Spreitzer. “I am proud to kick off my re-election campaign with the support of friends, neighbors, and constituents.
“From every corner of the district, we have worked hard to get the signatures needed for ballot access. I thank the more than 100 volunteers across the 15th District who helped our re-election team to secure a place on the November ballot.
“I am proud of the work we have done together to move our state forward, but I know that there is much more to be done. We need to tackle high prices by lowering the costs of childcare, healthcare, higher education, and housing. We should empower local communities to solve their most pressing challenges. We must stop the endless referendum cycle by investing in our local public schools so students get the education they deserve. We need to reduce the burden of property taxes and keep retirement affordable and accessible.
“We will hold big tech companies accountable by regulating data centers, stopping rising utility rates, and protecting our air and water. We have to prepare for a future shaped by AI and other new technologies, and we need legislators ready to meet this moment and protect our communities.
“I’m running for re-election to take on the difficult, complicated issues others won’t. As your State Senator, I will work to find common ground where I can, and to stand strong for the people and communities I represent when it’s right.”
Senator Spreitzer serves as the State Senator for the 15th District in the Wisconsin State Senate. He was first elected to the Senate in 2022, when he succeeded then-Sen. Janis Ringhand following her retirement. Senator Spreitzer serves in Democratic leadership as the Senate Democratic Caucus Chair. Prior to serving in the Senate, Senator Spreitzer served in the Wisconsin State Assembly and served as Beloit City Council President. Before entering elected office, Spreitzer worked for his alma mater, Beloit College. He lives with his husband Philip Gorman in Beloit. Learn more at MarkForWI.com.
Editor’s note: The Banner is pleased to publish campaign announcements for candidates running for our area state and federal legislative district offices. There is a limit of one submission per candidate for each primary election and general election. Announcements may be submitted to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com.
Obituaries
Patricia “Pat” Lynn Bailey, age 70, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026 with her daughter by her side. Pat was born February 21, 1956 in Ann Arbor, Michigan to John and Ruth (Hudock) Prentice. After a brief time in Ann Arbor, the Prentice family moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin, where Pat grew up as part of the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater community, where her father served as University Registrar. Pat attended the University School and later graduated from UW Whitewater with a degree in Elementary Education. Although she did not pursue teaching, she built a meaningful career in Human … Read more
Gemelino Paris Esperante, 83, long time resident of Whitewater, passed away on Thursday, June 4th, 2026. He was born on January 10, 1943, to his late father and mother, Evaristo and Carmen in Spain. In 1973 he moved to the United States as a sheep herder. On August 21, 1981, he was united in marriage to Cyndie Esperante in Colorado. Gemelino also worked in Mining and construction for many years. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, raising sheep and growing things in his garden, and flowers. He will be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife … Read more
Mary Ann Warner died peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Crestridge Assisted Living in Dodgeville. Her physical heart failed, but her actual, loving heart never did. Ann was born June 28, 1939 to Mary and Charles Kearns in Iowa. She moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin and graduated with many dear friends in the class of 1957. Ann married John Warner on September 19, 1959. They lived in Whitewater, Sturgis Michigan, and finally settled in Janesville where they built a beautiful life and raised their family. Together, they ran a business, traveled, played cards, and enjoyed their lives. When they became … Read more
Patricia Ann Jacobson (Bureau), age 81, of Whitewater, WI, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, WI. Born on September 2, 1944, in Marquette, MI, to the late Donald and Margaret Bureau, Pat grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She graduated from Graveraet High School, attended Michigan State University, and later earned her bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University. Pat dedicated her professional life to shaping young minds, working as an elementary and junior high school teacher in both Flint, MI, and Whitewater, WI. At the heart of Pat’s life was a beautiful, … Read more
In loving memory of Lois Lauritzen, age 92, who passed away on June 1, 2026 at Lakewood Memory Care in Brookfield. Lois led an active life full of devotion to family and friends. Born July 14th, 1933 in Silvis, IL, daughter of Harry and Elsie Wilson, she grew up in the Quad Cities with older brother Harry Wilson Jr. Lois graduated from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL with a degree in physical education. She met her husband Paul Lauritzen on the college tennis team. Their marriage on June 12th, 1955 lasted 59 years until Paul’s death on September 26th, … Read more
Donald Walter Triebold passed on to his eternal home on May 21, 2026. Don was born on April 23, 1935, in Evanston, IL, to the late Frederick W. and Mildred (nee Stecher) Triebold. Through his teen years, Don lived and worked on the family’s dairy farm, where he developed a life-long work ethic. His first eight years of education were in a one-room country schoolhouse, in which all eight grades were taught by one teacher. He graduated from Whitewater City High School in 1953 and then graduated from UW Whitewater in 1958 with a degree in Business Education. He continued his education, and earned a Master’s … Read more
William Kincaid Davis, age 84, passed away on Tuesday, May 19 at Agrace Hospice Center in Fitchburg. He was born on November 1, 1941, in Madison, Indiana, the second son of Salvation Army Officers Agnes (Dixon) and William C. Davis. He attended several schools in Indiana and Illinois, including University of Illinois Experimental High School (Champaign), and graduated from Galesburg High School in 1958. He earned his bachelor’s degree from UW-Eau Claire in 1964 and his master’s degree from UW-Whitewater in 1972. He had an expansive career in education, beginning as an English teacher in Whitehall, Thornton Township (IL) and … Read more
Magdalene “Maggie” Stetter (nee Fritz), 79, of Whitewater, Wisconsin passed from this life onto the next on Monday, May 4, 2026. She was born on January 16, 1947, to the late John and Mary (Presser) Fritz in St. Stefan, Austria. Maggie immigrated from Austria with her parents and brother, became a US citizen, and grew up and attended school in West Allis, WI and then graduated with a teaching degree from University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. Maggie served as a substitute, English, and German language teacher in the Whitewater, Elkhorn, Delavan, and Palmyra schools and at Divine Word Seminary. Maggie … Read more
Lawrence “Larry” C. Hartung, a proud Marine Veteran of the Vietnam War, and longtime resident of Fort Atkinson, WI, passed away peacefully at his home on May 1, 2026. Larry was born June 7th, 1949, to Levon and Charles Hartung in Chicago, IL. Larry enlisted in the US Marine Corps in 1968 and served 3 consecutive tours in the Vietnam War. During this time, he became pen pals with his future wife, Candy, via a connection through his father. In 1970, he came home on leave to marry Candy. They celebrated 55 years of marriage on October 31st, 2025. During … Read more
Leo E. Wurzer, 65, of Eagle, Wisconsin passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at his home. Leo was born on April 15, 1961 in Kenosha, Wisconsin to Cyril and Shirley (McNeil) Wurzer. He grew up between Pleasant Prairie and Antigo, spending his childhood summers on his uncle’s farm where he discovered his love for all things tractors. Although he never had a farm of his own, he was able to partially fulfill his dream by working as a driver for Robin’s Trucking in Whitewater, WI in his last days and collecting miniature Tonka toys. He began his career … Read more
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