News

Did you know that Whitewater Music Boosters gives thousands of dollars to support music at all WUSD schools? That money dries up, and the decisions don’t happen, without the help of family and community members like you!

If you haven’t been to a Whitewater Music Boosters meeting – or if it’s been a while – the first meeting of the year is arguably the most important one, and your opportunity to see what this year will hold is right around the corner. We are holding our first meeting on Monday, September 8th from 5:30-6:30 PM. Join us at WHS – Room 403 (come in through the auditorium/music doors) or via Google Meet at the following link: https://meet.google.com/fko-afzc-hxa.

The agenda will be finalized this week. It will be available with previous agendas, past minutes, and other important organizational documents here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TuBl93A6i-eHoumy9RN1HDvYWYLHdbeN?usp=sharing Did you get this message from a music teacher? Join our email list: https://forms.gle/NYGKUrk3TgbSwLmF9

Our constitution went through some updates over the last year-and-a-half. You can find it here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/176FiAPf8aBMIY6qAUMseCVGTBSoBRencaSgcpmIwuek/edit?usp=sharing

Meetings are casual, and kids are welcome. Come see what we’re about and how we support your students’ music!

If you can’t attend this meeting, there are many ways to get involved: 

Way #1: Run for a seat on the Board! The positions of Treasurer and Sponsorships/Fundraising Chair are currently vacant. Position descriptions are in the Constitution.

Way #2:
Volunteer! 

Whitewater music events frequently need your assistance. Look for other opportunities from Whitewater Music Boosters and from teachers. Volunteering is a great way to support students in their music experience.

Way #3:

Donate/Fundraise! In addition to supporting student activities through volunteering, Music Boosters supports the growth of students through sponsoring music related activities and providing monetary support for instruments, uniforms, and other needed items that aren’t budgeted for. Donors are recognized on social media and through the programs at district music events but can also donate anonymously if it’s preferred.

Donate/Share Form here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qkxHs1iNBujuaWKY7SqiDjH4QjZQ5dg2/view?usp=drive_link

Fall Book Club Announcement

League of Women Voters Whitewater Area

The League of Women Voters of Whitewater Area is pleased to announce the continuation of our book discussions that explore issues regarding the League’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy. 

The book for this fall is entitled American Madness: Fighting for Patients in a Broken Mental Health System by Alice Feller, M.D., which explores the complex realities of mental health care in the United States. Core themes of the book include: the current state of mental health care in America and its devastating impact on patients and families, the obstacles patients face in accessing appropriate care, the shortage of hospital beds, personal stories and advocacy for systemic change and improved treatment options, and patient vignettes that bring the realities of a broken system to life, encouraging empathy and understanding among readers.

Please join us as we discuss the book and mental health issues in our local community in three separate sessions, all of which will be held at The Book Teller, 171 W Main Street, in Whitewater, 6:30PM – 8:00PM, on the following dates:

Thursday, September 18, 2025 – Introduction through Chapter 4

Thursday, October 9, 2025 – Chapters 5 – 9

Thursday, November 13, 2025 – Chapters 10 – Epilogue

ACQUIRE THE BOOK TODAY! A limited supply of books is available at The Book Teller (call 262-269-9109 to hold a copy to purchase) and local libraries.  You can also order the book from Amazon.

You do not need to be a League member to attend and refreshments will be served. For questions or further information please contact Dwight C. Watson, dwight.watsondcw@gmail.com, or Deb Gamble, shebagam@gmail.com

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Visit our website at https://my.lwv.org/wisconsin/whitewater-area and like us on Facebook!

John’s Disposal will be closed on Monday, September 1, 2025, in observance of Labor Day.

Please note the following route change:
 Thursday’s route is delayed to Friday

Residents may contact John’s Disposal directly by calling (262) 473-4700 or by emailing office@johnsdisposal.com. You may also view their website at https://www.johnsdisposal.com.

______________________________________________________

AVISO: John’s Disposal estará cerrado el lunes 1 de septiembre de 2025, en conmemoración del Día del Trabajo. Tenga en cuenta el siguiente cambio de ruta:
 La ruta del jueves se retrasa hasta el Viernes

Home of Wisconsin’s largest business school, UW-Whitewater produces graduates in finance and accounting who go on to work in banking and personal finance across the region. Chancellor Corey King and Willie Warhawk stopped at PremierBank in Whitewater this past spring to celebrate the university’s mutually beneficial relationship with the bank as part of our Mascot on Main campaign.

YouTube link: https://youtu.be/Z0fLnzb3XN4https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1ccgeJqJ7g

Editor’s note: The above was provided by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.

Dr. Suzanne Popke (dpopketherapy.com), psychologist in Whitewater, will give a free public presentation called “Introduction to Meditation for Mental Health” at her office on Saturday, Sept. 6 at 2 PM. 

Address: Historic Nelson Salisbury House at 404 W. North St, Whitewater. 

She will share some of her knowledge about Siberian meditation which she learned while living in the Republic of Buryatia, Siberia.

Editor’s note: The above announcement was provided by Dr. Suzanne Popke. The Whitewater Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by vined mind from Pixabay.

Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday in September to honor and recognize the American labor movement and the works and contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the United States. The three-day weekend it falls on is called Labor Day Weekend.

Beginning in the late 19th century, as the trade union and labor movements grew, trade unionists proposed that a day be set aside to celebrate labor. “Labor Day” was promoted by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor, which organized the first parade in New York City. In 1887, Oregon was the first state of the United States to make it an official public holiday. By the time it became an official federal holiday in 1894, thirty states in the U.S. officially celebrated Labor Day.

Canada’s Labour Day is also celebrated on the first Monday of September. More than 80 countries celebrate International Workers’ Day on May 1, the ancient European holiday of May Day. May Day was chosen by the Second International of socialist and communist parties to commemorate the Haymarket affair, which occurred in Chicago on May 4, 1886.

Source: Wikipedia

The Banner appreciates the use on the homepage of the image by ilham arief from Pixabay.

Fall “Kick-Off” Sunday, September 7!
FUMC: 145 South Prairie St. Whitewater, WI

First United Methodist Church in Whitewater is planning an exciting “kick-off” Sunday, as we begin our fall worship and programming events. Sunday, September 7 promises to be a spiritual and uplifting time as we begin our fall schedule.

On September 7 we resume our 8:00 and 10:00 worship times. At the 10:00 worship we are planning a service of renewal expressed through prayer and music. Service opens with a new choral introit with handbells, children, and our chancel choir. This opening song was written by our own Tom Ryan. Our choir will sing an exciting new anthem accompanied by flute, violin, and cello. This instrumental group will also bless us with other incidental music during communion.

This service will also feature a “blessing of the backpacks” for all ages of students and educators, as they start a new school year. We will also acknowledge volunteers who assist with Promise Point and our new Sunday School schedule. Pastor Clarissa will provide an uplifting message as we are led into a new church year.

Our kick-off Sunday continues after worship, with a church cook-out with brats and hot dogs on the grill. We will also have salads, baked beans, condiments, and drinks. We are arranging children’s/family activities. We’ll have a bouncy house, corn hole and limbo games, chalk art and coloring. There will also be bubbles, card games, and face painting!

First United Methodist Church will be decorated and “dressed up” to welcome all to our fall kick-off event. The entire Whitewater area community is invited to come and enjoy this time of friendship, fellowship, and worship.

 
Prime Time Pizza Party: Anyone in High School is Welcome!  – September 14

All High School students are invited to come to First United Methodist church on Sunday, September 14, at 6 pm for the ultimate pizza taste-off. We’ll be sampling pizzas from local restaurants and voting to crown the very best in Whitewater. 

Bring a friend, come hungry, and hang out with us as we also chat about our plans for the year and reveal the date and location for our 2026 mission trip. It’s the perfect way to kick off the school year together! 

Questions? Please reach out to Tom/Julie at tomjulieduval@gmail.com or 262-949-7309 or Kelly/Corey at kellymross@gmail.com; 262-203-1999

City of Whitewater Alcohol Licensing Committee – Tuesday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Hearing of Appeal from Maxwell Sztuk regarding denial of Beverage Operators License.
Whitewater Municipal Building Cravath Lakefront
Room, 2nd Floor, 312 West Whitewater St.
*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://us06web.zoom.us/j/83215762870
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 832 1576 2870

City of Whitewater Common Council – Tuesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes A Resolution Directing Whitewater Lakes Advisory Committee To Study And Document
Resident’s Interest In Creation Of Lake District, Discussion and Possible Action regarding a 90 day extension of MOU with University of Whitewater for parking, and Discussion and Possible Action regarding approval of rate increase for the Stormwater
Utility.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*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:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82444180987?pwd=tYZxIFXv0tPnJoLkZHDbpjPwFXBTr6.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 824 4418 0987
Passcode: 742765

City of Whitewater Lakes Advisory Committee – Wednesday @ 4:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion of current and proposed lake capital improvement projects and related lake
initiatives.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*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.

1. 
   Join Zoom Meeting
   https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87549767893?pwd=l0KKx5hAmQqItIvHC9557ApwfWzPaK.1
   Meeting ID: 875 4976 7893
   Passcode: 710533 —
   One tap mobile
   +19292056099,,87549767893#,,,,710533# US (New York) +13017158592,,87549767893#,,,,710533# US (Washington DC)

City of Whitewater Landmarks Commission – Wednesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Update on Starin Park Water Tower. (Blackmer)
Update on the historical gardens that were found next to Effigy Mounds.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*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 join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/934976533
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 934-976-533
United States: +1 (872) 240-3212
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install

City of Whitewater Public Arts Commission – Thursday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Update on Art Transformation 2025 traffic boxes and Discussion and possible approval of Call for Artist.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*In Person and Virtual
Join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or
telephone. Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/874917973
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 874-917-973
United States: +1 (872) 240-3311
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install

The Young Performing Arts Center Announces a Thrilling 2025–2026 Season

The Young Performing Arts Center (YPAC) is proud to unveil its 2025–2026 season, an inspiring lineup of world-class performances, Broadway hits, community showcases, and cultural treasures. This year’s season promises something for everyone — from epic tales of myth and adventure to dazzling dance, family classics, and laugh-out-loud comedy.

“We’re thrilled to bring such a dynamic mix of performances to The Young Performing Arts Center this season,” said Dr. Michael Dugan, Dean – University of Wisconsin-Whitewater College of Arts and Communication & Interim Executive Director of The Young Performing Arts Center. “Audiences can expect unforgettable evenings filled with heart, humor, artistry, and the unique shared experience that only live performance can provide.”

For more information about the 25-26 Season and to purchase tickets, please visit TheYoungWhitewater.com or contact the box office at 262-472-2222

SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

Ticket prices shown include all fees. Parking is free!

Editor’s note: Apparently Charlie Berens’ performance is not considered to be part of the season; however, there are still seats available for his Friday, September 12 show at 9:30 p.m. CHARLIE BERENS is a comedian, New York Times Best Selling Author, Emmy-winning journalist, musician and creator of the Manitowoc Minute. The Wisconsin native has been featured on Comedy Central, Fox, CBS, Funny or Die, TBS, Variety, MTV News and more. He creates weekly content for his various social platforms and has amassed over 7.5 million followers. There are only a few single seats on the main floor, but many seats remain in the balcony. $45+

Beowulf – Wednesday, September 17, 2025 @ 7 P.M.

A fierce one-person retelling of the Old English epic. John Heimbuch performs Charlie Bethel’s tour-de-force adaptation, blending wit, vigor, and meaty language in this Fringe Festival favorite. Contains descriptions of fantasy violence.. All seats $13.

Gilgamesh – Thursday, September 18, 2025 @ 7 P.M.

Charlie Bethel’s solo adaptation of the ancient Sumerian epic brings forth themes of friendship, immortality, and adventure. Recommended for ages 13+ due to sacred sexuality and fantasy violence.. All seats $13

Dungeons & Dragons: Twenty-Sided Tavern – Tues./Wed., October 14–15, 2025 @ 7 P.M.

An interactive, laugh-filled fantasy quest where the audience chooses the heroes and shapes the story. “Rip-roaring funny” (Nerdist) — no two shows are alike! $67+

Ballet Hispánico – Saturday, October 18, 2025 @ 7 P.M.

America’s leading Latino dance company brings bold, breathtaking repertory to the stage, redefining what it means to be an American dance company. All seats $40.

Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through “The Change” – Thursday, October 30, 2025 @ 7 P.M.

The hilarious, heartfelt sequel to the smash-hit “Menopause The Musical”. A spirited celebration of menopause, friendship, and fun. $38+

John McGivern – Sunday December 7, 2025 @ 3 P.M.

Beloved Wisconsin storyteller and Emmy Award winner John McGivern shares heartwarming, funny stories rooted in family and community. $32+

Chicago – Wednesday, February 4, 2026 @ 7 P.M.

Broadway’s longest-running American musical! Fame, fortune, and all that jazz light up the stage in this Tony and Grammy Award-winning sensation. $67+

The Jungle Book: Missoula Children’s Theatre – Saturday, February 14, 2026 @ 3 P.M.

Local youth perform this rollicking adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale, filled with original music, humor, and adventure.

Spamilton: An American Parody – Thursday, February 19, 2026 @ 7 P.M.

From the creator of “Forbidden Broadway”, this hilarious parody of Hamilton and other Broadway blockbusters promises a comedy revolution. $30+

Peking Acrobats – Sunday, February 22, 2026 @ 3 P.M.

Daring feats of balance, juggling, cycling, and contortion performed with jaw-dropping skill. A thrilling family spectacle. $18+

Shamrock Tenors –Tuesday, March 3, 2026 @ 7 P.M.

Ireland’s newest musical sensation brings soaring five-part harmonies and infectious energy to Irish classics. $26+

New York Voices: The Grand Finale – Sunday, March 15, 2026 @ 3 P.M.

After nearly four decades, this Grammy-winning vocal ensemble embarks on its farewell tour — an unforgettable celebration of music and friendship. All seats $31.

Kinky Boots – Tuesday, March 24, 2026 @ 7 P.M.

With a Tony-winning score by Cyndi Lauper, this feel-good Broadway hit follows an unlikely pair who discover they can change the world by changing minds. $67+

Preacher Lawson – Saturday, May 9, 2026 @ 7 P.M. $38+

The “America’s Got Talent” finalist and viral sensation brings his high-energy stand-up comedy to Whitewater for one night only. $38+

The Young serves as a presenting organization for the performing arts and as an educational and cultural center enriching the lives of regional communities. Tickets for any show can be purchased online at TheYoungWhitewater.com, by calling the Box Office at (262) 472-2222, or in person. Ticket Services is located in the atrium of Greenhill Center of the Arts, 950 West Main Street, Whitewater, and is open Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Young is located at 930 West Main Street, Whitewater, WI 53190. To learn more, visit TheYoungWhitewater.com.