Brooke Mason Named to Illinois Wesleyan University’s Fall 2025 Dean’s List
Brooke Mason, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, was named to the Dean’s List for the fall semester of the 2025-26 academic year at Illinois Wesleyan University. Mason is a junior majoring in Music Theatre.
Mason was among 884 students from 31 states and 23 countries named to the fall 2025 Dean’s List.
To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must earn a GPA of 3.50 or better during the semester, based on 4.0 for straight As.
Founded in 1850, Illinois Wesleyan is a nationally recognized, highly selective liberal arts university. The University is exclusively undergraduate and enrolls approximately 1,700 students from across the nation and around the globe. Illinois Wesleyan prides itself on producing graduates who are well-rounded, broadly educated individuals with a spirit of inquiry who can successfully adapt to the demands of a rapidly changing, complex world.
“At the Table: People Places and Things / A La Mesa: Gente, Lugares y Cosas” – A New Cultural Exhibition by Hannah Bennett
“At The Table: People, Places, and Things / A La Mesa: Gente, Lugares, y Cosas,”a new exhibition by Madison-based artist and educator Hannah O’Hare Bennett. The show is inspired by Bennett’s two years of Peace Corps service in Quillín, Loja, Ecuador, where she arrived with limited Spanish into a world of unfamiliar customs, landscapes, and rhythms. Her art reflects the people, places, and things that grounded her during that transformative period.
This exhibit will be open from Jan. 27 to Feb. 24. A special reception at 5 p.m. with an artist talk at 5:30 p.m. followed by an open house from 6 to 7 p.m. will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 17. Light refreshments will be served. The exhibition centers on the idea of substantivo, the Spanish word for noun, as a symbol of tangible connection. Bennett’s works combine materials and techniques she encountered in Ecuador, such as bead weaving, with the handmade paper and embroidery that define her current practice. Patterns and images appear and fade across these textured surfaces, mirroring the gradual process of gaining clarity in a new environment. Featured pieces include Tres Mesitas, three pieces inspired by domestic life in Quillin, and selections from Quillin, a portfolio that pairs small studies with reflections on daily life in the Andes. Other works reference local architecture, the three sisters crop system, and the surrounding sky, land and waterways.
At its heart, the exhibition celebrates human connection, our relationships to one another, our surroundings and the material world. Bennett’s experience of being welcomed into a community as a foreigner offers a hopeful reminder of the grace people can extend across cultures, something she strives to reflect in her own life twenty years later.
Hannah O’Hare Bennett is a Madison-based artist, papermaker, and educator. She holds a BFA in Printmaking and an MFA in Design Studies and currently maintains her studio at Arts and Literature Lab. She serves as UW Madison’s Peace Corps recruiter and is a lecturer in the Design Studies department. She recently received one of two Women’s Artist Forward Prizes. Her work combines personal experience with traditional craft techniques, and she has taught, exhibited, and participated in residencies nationwide. You can check out more of her work at www.hannahoharebennett.com.
Roberta’s Art Gallery is located on the first floor of the James R. Connor University Center at 800 W. Main Street, Whitewater, Wis. The gallery collaborates with campus departments, student organizations, and community artists to coordinate and sponsor exhibits. During the academic year, the gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday. Roberta’s Art Gallery is closed on Saturday and Sunday.
At Roberta’s Art Gallery, we pride ourselves in providing free and open exhibits to the public, and attending certain events can earn students class credit. If you are interested in being featured in the gallery, please contact us for a proposal request. Reach us at ucart@uww.edu or 262-472-3193. Visit our website for any questions or inquiries, and follow our Instagram at uww_rag.
Does your family include a student(s) between kindergarten and 12th grade who would enjoy being part of a production on The Young Performing Arts Center stage? This next week may be their opportunity, as Missoula Children’s Theatre is looking for approximately 50 local students to perform in their production of The Jungle Book on Saturday, February 14 at 3 p.m.
The letter below from The Young gives the details, but for starters: Monday, February 9 @ 4 p.m. – Auditions on the Young stage, 930 W. Main Street – Students who are selected for acting or assistant director roles will begin rehearsing 15 minutes after the conclusion of the auditions, with the session continuing until 8:15 p.m. [Payment for parking will not be required.] Tuesday-Friday, February 10-13 – Rehearsals from 4:00-8:15 p.m. – Depending upon role, some participants will not be needed for all of these times, but they must be available if assigned. Saturday, February 14 @ 3 p.m. – Performance
The synopsis: Ever been abandoned in the jungle, adopted by wolves, taught by a bear, befriended by a panther and chased by a tiger? In the Missoula Children’s Theatre musical adaptation of THE JUNGLE BOOK, Mowgli the man-cub has all these adventures and more. Join him as he escapes from the Bander-log, outwits a tiger, enlists the help of a rock-python, explores what it means to be human and learns a lesson from the brave mongoose Rikki-Tikki-Tavi. Original music and rollicking humor give new life to the classic tale by Rudyard Kipling.
Further details may be found below as well as at this link.
An Exhibition of Three Artists, Three Lifetimes in Art Whitewater Arts Alliance • February 2026
Seasoned, on view from February 5–28, 2026, with a public reception on Saturday, February 7 from 1 pm-4 pm, brings together three artists whose lives have been shaped—steadily, and profoundly—by decades of creating. Each artist lives in or near Whitewater and arrives at this moment with a distinct voice, a deep well of experience, and a shared belief that art is not simply something one does, but something one becomes.
Gary Kincaid, an architect and farmer, creates from a lineage of makers stretching back generations. Raised in a family where art was woven into everyday life, he carries that inheritance into everything he paints, sculpts, carves, and builds. His architectural training gives his work clarity and balance, while his years on the farm keep him grounded in the rhythms of the land. Gary’s pieces honor materials, landscape and legacy— and include artifacts of a life lived close to structure, landscapes, culture, and family.
Sylvia Hall Linton came to painting after a long career as a librarian and educator, rediscovering the art she once tucked away in an attic. In Whitewater, she found a community that encouraged her to explore, experiment, and grow. Her work is rooted in the belief that we are all continually becoming—artist and artwork evolving together. Faces in tree bark, spirits in the natural world, and stories whispered by memory often emerge unbidden in her paintings. She welcomes these surprises, painting around them, letting them guide her toward meaning. For Sylvia, art is a bridge between the seen and unseen, the real and the remembered.
Caryl Yasko adds yet another dimension to Seasoned with a lifetime devoted to public art and community storytelling. A trailblazing muralist raised in Racine and trained in the Midwest before studying in Japan, she developed a style shaped by movement, narrative, and the conviction that art belongs to everyone. In the early 1970s, Caryl became one of the pioneering women of the Chicago Mural Group, transforming city walls into vibrant community voices. Her iconic mural Under City Stone remains one of Chicago’s most celebrated public artworks, but her influence extends far beyond it. Caryl has led community projects across the country, mentored generations of young artists, and continued to experiment with new materials and ideas throughout her career. A founding member of the Whitewater Arts Alliance, she brings her spark, curiosity, and collaborative spirit to the community.
For more information, please contact Kim Adams, Gallery Director, at 608-201-2151 or via email at wwartsalliance@gmail.com. The Cultural Arts Center is open Thursdays through Sundays from 12 pm-4 pm. Learn more at whitewaterarts.org or follow WAA on Facebook at facebook.com/wwartsalliance. Join us! New members are always welcomed.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. This week’s image is a rare post card with a view marked “From Water Tower Towards Normal.” [The university was originally called Whitewater Normal School.] Given the appearance of Old Main, the view was probably taken around 1900. The perspective of a photo taken from the Water Tower is an image not seen in other photos in our collection. The view also shows some houses in this part of Whitewater, many of which might have been demolished for expansion of the university.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
The following area students have been named to the Dean’s List at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for the fall semester of the 2025-26 academic year, ending in December.
Qualification for the Dean’s List is limited to students who have attained outstanding academic achievement. To be eligible, students must have earned at least a 3.5 semester grade point average and carried a minimum of 12 credits.
UW-La Crosse, founded in 1909, is one of 13 four-year institutions comprising the Universities of Wisconsin. UWL offers 130-plus degree programs from undergraduate to doctoral levels in the arts, social sciences and humanities; science and health; business; and education. UW-La Crosse – www.uwlax.edu – is a top-ranked regional university. It is the No. 1 public regional university in the tri-state area of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Illinois – according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges ranking.
Students on the Dean’s List from this area include:
Ava Alvarado, Recreational Therapy Major Ethan Dugan, International Business Major Caroline Skindingsrude, Elementary/Middle Education Major Sami Van Daele, Statistics Major Jessica Wilson, Marketing Major
By Lynn Binnie Whitewater Banner volunteer staff whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
The free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance service [VITA] which has been provided by the UW-W College of Business and Economics is back after a one year break, according to Lecturer Victoria Torino, who is running the program this year. Full details, including the items that must be brought to an appointment, may be found here. Note that the service is only available by appointment – see above contact information.
Those who don’t qualify for the VITA service or are not available during its hours may want to investigate the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, which provides tax assistance to anyone, free of charge, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. You don’t need to be an AARP member to use the service. The closest location is in Elkhorn. Due to renovations at the library, the service is being provided this year at the Elkhorn Chamber of Commerce, 203 E. Walworth Street. Appointments are required and may be made on Mondays and Tuesdays between 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Call the Elkhorn library at 262-723-2678 to make an appointment. This site provides further information as well as the opportunity to prepare one’s own taxes online with the assistance of a volunteer. The AARP service is also being provided on Fridays in Delavan at City Hall, 123 S. Second Street. Appointments may be made for that location also through the Elkhorn library. The last week for appointments at both locations is the week of April 6.
This site provides a list of documents that should be brought to an appointment.
The federal Direct File program that was introduced in Wisconsin last year has been discontinued. Taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less may use a program called Free File, for which information is available here. The Wisconsin state return may be filed online through WisTax, which is found here.
In addition to Free File and WisTax, Wisconsinites have other options for filing their taxes, including: Tax Filing Software: Numerous software options are available, ranging from basic to advanced, offering varying levels of guidance and support. Tax Preparer: Enlisting the help of a qualified tax professional can be beneficial for those with complex tax situations or who prefer personalized assistance.
DOR’s Where’s My Refund tool is the quickest way for Wisconsinites to check their refund status, as it gives taxpayers instant access to the same information call center agents provide.
Individual tax filers are encouraged to visit the DOR website’s “Individuals” page, where they can find answers to common questions, forms and instructions, tax credit information, payment options, and instructional videos.
Did you know that there are over 120 types of dementia? How do you find out what type of dementia a person has?
“There’s no cure, so what’s the point in knowing?” It’s a perspective we’ve heard before — the idea that if there’s no cure, early diagnosis is pointless.
Imagine you have the first signs of tooth decay — a small cavity. Would you ignore it just because there’s no ‘cure’ for tooth decay? Would you say, “Well, I guess I’ll just lose the tooth? ” Of course not. You’d get a filling. You’d take extra care. You’d do what you could to slow the damage and keep the tooth going for as long as possible.
It’s the same with dementia. Early signs might be subtle — a bit of forgetfulness, confusion with words, difficulty planning. Only a doctor can diagnose the type of dementia and give advice. And catching it early opens the door to speech therapy, memory strategies, lifestyle changes, seeking support and planning for the future. All of these can help preserve independence, delay progression, and give people more good years.
Saying “there’s no cure” doesn’t mean “there’s nothing we can do.” The real danger is knowing too late — when much more could’ve been done if we’d only acted sooner.
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From a speech by Michelle Reshef Ash, MBA, CEO, Health Research Consultant, UK, shared by Tonya Runyard, Dementia Care Specialist, ADRC of Jefferson County.
For referral to a memory care clinic, contact your county’s Aging and Disability Resource Center, ADRC.
This article is submitted by Dementia Friendly Community Initiative, a program of Whitewater Seniors in the Park to help educate the community about dementia and to support patients and their care partners. New committee members are very welcome! Call Debbie to volunteer. dandrus@whitewater-wi.gov 262 473 0535
The cancellation of January’s Wright House Concert due to extreme cold has a silver lining. We have rescheduled Tim Mumm’s reading of “Cat’s Cradle” in a larger venue. There is room for everyone! The new date is Sunday, February 22 at 2pm and the new location is Sugar Creek Lutheran Church.
Tim will be reading from his play, “Cat’s Cradle.” Joel Mankowski and Jenny Buechner will be presenting with Tim to provide some of the history behind the play, and to talk about Deaf culture and the process of translating the play into American Sign Language. This reading will be given in both spoken English and American Sign Language, with interpreters present to provide support.
Faculty Saxophone Recital – Russian Music for Saxophone – Thursday, 2/5 @ 7:30 p.m. – Light Recital Hall, 950 W. Main St. Discover the rich and evocative world of Russian music with faculty members Matthew Sintchak, saxophone and Diana Shapiro, piano. This special concert features captivating works by celebrated Russian composers, including the lyrical melodies of Alexander Glazounov and the innovative sounds of Edison Denisov. Join us for an evening of passionate and compelling music that brings the spirit of Russia to life. $7 for adults; $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Tickets may be purchased here; there is a $3 surcharge for tickets purchased at the door. See parking information below.
Benjamin Whitcomb, Cello – Sunday, Feb. 8 @ 3:00 p.m. – Light Recital Hall, 950 W. Main St. Join cellist Benjamin Whitcomb for a captivating faculty recital featuring a diverse program of cello masterpieces. Showcasing his exceptional artistry and expressive depth, Whitcomb brings to life a rich selection of works that highlight the beauty and versatility of the cello. Don’t miss this inspiring afternoon of timeless music performed with passion and precision. $7 for adults; $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Tickets may be purchased here; there is a $3 surcharge for tickets purchased at the door.
Music Mosaics: Voices in Harmony – Friday, Feb. 13 @ 7:30 p.m. – Light Recital Hall, 950 W. Main St. Let the human voice move you in all its forms—from soaring soprano solos to powerful ensemble harmonies. This concert celebrates the purest of instruments and the expressive stories only song can tell. Every note supports scholarships that elevate the next generation of vocal talent. Come hear voices that inspire change. $10 for adults; $6 for those age 65+ and under age 18. Tickets may be purchased here; there is a $3 surcharge for tickets purchased at the door.
Beltline Bones Guest Artist Recital – Friday, Feb. 20 @ 7:30 p.m. – Light Recital Hall, 950 W. Main St. Formed in 2021, the Beltline Bones have quickly established themselves as a unique and engaging voice within the world of classical chamber music. Combining the idiom of trombone quartet with their interests in new music and electronics, the Beltline Bones offer a thought-provoking listening experience unlike any other. Their 2024 EP ‘Audiogenica’ released by cmntx records features a number of commissioned works from composers such as Jay C. Batzner and Isaac Mayhew. The group consists of tenor trombonists Cole Bartels, Justin Coyne, Zach Bethel, and bass trombonist Adam Nissenbaum. Don’t miss this unique concert featuring a collection of new works commissioned by the Beltline Bones in collaboration with the Millennium Composers Initiative. $7 for adults; $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Tickets may be purchased here; there is a $3 surcharge for tickets purchased at the door.
Two Cellos: Kristen Yun and Benjamin Whitcomb – Saturday, Feb. 21 @ 3 p.m.- Light Recital Hall, 950 W. Main St. $4 adults, $1 age 65+ and under age 18. Tickets may be purchased here; there is a $3 surcharge for tickets purchased at the door.
Flute Fantasy – Sunday, Feb. 22 @ 7:30 p.m. – Light Recital Hall, 950 W. Main St. Step into a world of imagination and wonder with Flute Fantasy, an enchanting concert that takes listeners on a grand storytelling journey through music. Featuring captivating “Fantasy” pieces by Sir Malcolm Arnold, Georges Hüe, Terri Sánchez, and more, this program showcases the expressive power and versatility of the flute. Let your imagination soar during an evening filled with lyrical beauty, dramatic flair, and musical magic. $7 for adults; $4 for age 65+ and under age 18. Tickets may be purchased here; there is a $3 surcharge for tickets purchased at the door.
Jazz Ensemble Winter Concert – Tuesday, Jan 24 @ 7:30 p.m. – Light Recital Hall, 950 W. Main St. Join Jazz Ensemble I for a high-energy concert featuring an exciting mix of jazz arrangements old and new. From timeless swing standards to bold contemporary charts, this top-tier ensemble showcases the full spectrum of jazz with style, precision, and improvisational flair. Don’t miss this dynamic evening of music that celebrates the past, present, and future of jazz. $7 for adults; $4 for age 65+ and under age 18. Tickets may be purchased here; there is a $3 surcharge for tickets purchased at the door. See parking information below.
Parking information
Parking: A permit is required to park in University lots and on Prince Street north of Main Street during events that take place Monday – Thursday. The closest lots are Lots 1 and 2. Permits may be purchased at the kiosk at the Visitors’ Center on Starin Road. To purchase a permit online, visit uww.aimsparking.com and follow these steps:
1. Select: Purchase UW-W Special Event Permits
2. Agree to Terms of Service
3. Select Event Type: CENTER OF THE ARTS
4. Select the event you are attending
5. Select Permit Type: EVENT GUEST
6. Dates will automatically fill in
7. Click Add Vehicle
8. Enter license plate, make, model and color vehicle; Click ADD
9. Follow the remaining prompts to complete registration process
NOTE: Your license plate is your permit; be sure to enter plate correctly to avoid tickets. Plates not entered correctly are subject to $5 tickets. Do not park in stalls with any type of sign. If you need to change your plate, call 262-472-1011 during business hours Mon-Fri 7:30 am to 4:30 pm.
