News

Editor’s note: The following update was made by the City Parks & Recreation Department.

CANCELED! Due to the wet soggy conditions, we will reschedule the movie for next Saturday.  Movie Night Update 

Unfortunately, due to the wet and soggy conditions, tonight’s showing of Mufasa at Cravath Lakefront Park has been canceled.

But don’t worry—we’re not letting the fun slip away!  The movie has been rescheduled for next Saturday at dusk.

Thank you for understanding, and we look forward to seeing everyone next weekend for a (hopefully dry!) night under the stars. 

Tonight is the night!!

Join us for Mufasa: The Lion King at the Cravath Lakefront Park, Saturday, August 16. Movie will start at dusk, 8:30 PM.

We will have concessions available for purchase. Bring a blanket or chair.

Mufasa: The Lion King, released in December 2024, is a photorealistically animated musical drama produced by Walt Disney Pictures and directed by Barry Jenkins.

• It’s a prequel and sequel to the 2019 remake of The Lion King.
• The story is told by Rafiki to Simba and Nala’s cub, exploring Mufasa’s origin, his bond with Scar (then known as Taka), and how he rose to become king.
• It features a star-studded cast including Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, Seth Rogen, and Blue Ivy Carter in her film debut.

City Manager John S. Weidl earned the nationally recognized designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), denoting a mastery of skills in economic development and a dedication to personal and professional growth. This milestone marks a significant achievement and underscores John’s commitment to excellence in the field of economic development.

“Becoming a Certified Economic Developer isn’t just a credential, it’s a career-defining
milestone that demonstrates a professional’s dedication to elevating their expertise and their
community impact,” said IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle. “Certified Economic Developers
possess deep technical knowledge and bring trust and credibility to stakeholders, investors, and
peers. We are thrilled to celebrate John on achieving this accomplishment and joining our
network of professionals driving economic progress around the world.”

The CEcD designation is a prestigious acknowledgement of skilled and committed professionals
in the field of economic development, establishing a benchmark of excellence within the
industry. To attain this designation, candidates must successfully complete a rigorous and
comprehensive examination, consisting of three parts and spanning two days. This examination
assesses a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency, judgement, and critical thinking abilities in the
following areas of economic development:

• Business retention and expansion
• Finance & credit analysis
• Marketing and attraction
• Strategic planning
• Entrepreneurial & small business development
• Managing economic development organizations
• Neighborhood development strategies
• Real estate development & reuse
• Technology-led economic development
• Workforce development strategies
• Foreign direct investment & exporting

“Earning the CEcD designation affirms my commitment to pairing technical expertise with an
inclusive approach to economic growth. This is more than a professional milestone; it’s a pledge
to apply nationally recognized best practices and data-driven strategies to every decision,
ensuring our focus stays on what strengthens the community as a whole, not on narrow or
short-term interests. I’m grateful for the support of the City Council, staff, and community
partners who share in this commitment to building a stronger economic future for Whitewater
and the region,” said City Manager John S. Weidl.

Certified Economic Developers operate as highly skilled economic development professionals
and collaborate with public officials, business leaders, and community members to establish
astute leadership and serve as a driving force in the economic development landscape. Their
commitment to excellence translates into a profound impact on well-being, elevating the
quality of life and unlocking a myriad of opportunities for individuals, businesses, and
communities alike.

Weidl is now one of over 1,250 active CEcDs worldwide.

Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the City of Whitewater.

Celebrating 25 Years of Dorothy Carnes County Park and Rose Lake State Natural Area: A Legacy of Generosity, Partnership, and Community

The Friends of Rose Lake and the Jefferson County Parks Department invite the public, park supporters, and Friends Group members to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 25th anniversary of Dorothy Carnes County Park and Rose Lake State Natural Area—a space that has become a cornerstone of outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship, and community connection in Jefferson County.

The celebration will be hosted by the Jefferson County Parks Department and the Friends of Rose Lake on Tuesday, August 19 at 6:00 PM at the Dorothy Carnes Park Pavilion off Radloff Lane. Attendees are invited to enjoy light refreshments, share memories, and recognize the individuals and partnerships that have made the park what it is today. Guests are welcome to bring stories, photos, or simply their appreciation for this beloved local treasure.

This milestone event honors not only 25 years of natural beauty and public access, but also the vision and generosity of Carol Liddle, whose donations were instrumental in the original land acquisitions and subsequent improvements to the park—including the very shelter where the celebration will be held. Carol’s early contribution was not only a catalyst for preserving this land but also served as the inspiration for naming the park in honor of her mother, Dorothy Carnes. Dorothy’s deep love of the outdoors and “all things wild and free” instilled in Carol a lifelong commitment to conservation and public access to natural spaces.

The development and expansion of Dorothy Carnes County Park would not have been possible without key funding partnerships. Through the Wisconsin DNR’s Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program and Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) funding from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Jefferson County has been able to make multiple strategic land acquisitions and improvements over the years—turning a bold vision into a thriving public space.

“This park is a reflection of what can happen when generosity, partnership, and community commitment come together,” said Tom Belzer of the Friends of Rose Lake. “We are incredibly proud to celebrate the past 25 years and look forward to the next chapter.”

From its first trail to today’s wide-ranging recreation, conservation, and community programming, Dorothy Carnes County Park and Rose Lake State Natural Area have become more than just a park—they are a testament to public participation, shared stewardship, and the power of local action.

Event Details:
�� Date: Tuesday, August 19, 2025
�� Time: 6:00 PM
�� Location: Dorothy Carnes Park Pavilion, 6915 Hoard Road [just east of Fort Atkinson on Hwy 12], Jefferson County, WI

Join us to honor the people and partnerships that built this park—and the community that continues to make it thrive.

Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by Jefferson County Parks Department.

Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Jenni Jacobs, who indicated that the event this weekend is being put on by some WHS alumni students.  She confirmed that it is for age 21+.

Mulberry Carnival: All proceeds go to Alzheimer’s Association
Saturday, August 23 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

All Welcome
Mulberry Carnival

Ron Binning writes, “Zinnias by our mailing box.  Only place we have sun.”

“This of course is a Monarch.”

Our thanks to Ron Binning for sharing his beautiful flowers with us.

— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share.  Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!

Starting Monday, August 18, library patrons must use the new, main entrance on the south side of the library’s building (off Church St.) to pick up materials.

The process remains the same — once your hold is showing as available in your account, contact the library to make a pickup appointment.

Please note that the parking lot will remain closed — there is street parking only. The outdoor book drop is located near the library’s front doors.

Please contact us with any questions or to make a pickup appointment!

262-473-0530

library@whitewater-wi.gov

Editor’s note: This Banner article provides detailed information on how to set up a hold and pickup. The pickup location in that article is accurate only through Saturday, August 16.

The City of Whitewater, in partnership with the Whitewater Fire Department and Whitewater Police Department, is proud to announce a special presentation by Travis Howze — a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, former Police Officer, retired Firefighter, and renowned motivational speaker — on Saturday, September 20th, at 9:30 AM.

Travis Howze will share his riveting personal journey through trauma, resilience, and healing in a talk titled “Post Traumatic Purpose”, empowering attendees with tools to prioritize mental wellness, leadership, and personal growth. His raw, heartfelt message draws from real-world experience as a first responder and military veteran, offering a rare opportunity for individuals, families, and professionals alike to explore what it truly means to thrive after adversity.

🎟Reserve Your Spot
Tickets are available for first responders and veterans thanks to the generous support of the City of Whitewater, Whitewater Fire Department, and Whitewater Police Department.

To attend: Email: bmagestro@whitewater-wi.gov or Call: 262-473-0101
For more about Travis Howze, visit: www.travishowze.com
Follow him on Instagram: @TravisHowze

Let’s come together to break the stigma around mental health — and build a stronger, more compassionate Whitewater.

ADRC of Walworth County Offers Program to Reduce Falls in Older Adults

One in four older adults falls each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Wisconsin leads the nation in fall-related deaths for people aged 60 and older. But the good news is that falls are not a normal part of aging and can be prevented. The Stepping On program, offered by the Walworth County Aging and Disability Resource Center, has been researched and proven to reduce falls by 31%.

In just seven weekly, two-hour sessions, Stepping On guest experts, including a physical therapist and pharmacist, will provide participants with strategies for avoiding falls, including balance and strength exercises, home safety check suggestions, medication reviews, and more. The workshop is designed specifically for individuals aged 60 or older who have had a fall or have a fear of falling. Participants can expect to leave with more strength, improved balance, and a feeling of confidence and independence.

Stepping On will be held at Seniors in the Park at the Starin Park Community Building, 504 W. Starin Rd, Whitewater, WI 53190. Classes will be held on Thursdays, August 21 through October 2, from 10 a.m. to noon. The workshop has a suggested donation of $10.

For questions or to register for the program, contact Edie Africano at (262) 741-3309.

About the ADRC of Walworth County: 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 situation. Learn more at www.co.walworth.wi.us/376/Aging-Disability-Resource-Center.

Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the photo on the homepage by Eddie K from Pixabay.