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The Whitewater Public Library has completed their 13-month Building Expansion and Renovation Project and will fully reopen the library building to the public on Monday, December 8.
Whitewater City Manager John Weidl states: “The Whitewater Public Library expansion is one of the best examples of what this community can do together. Residents and donors stepped up with $3 million in private support, and the city was proud to match that commitment with a $3 million investment. The result is a $6 million project that modernizes a key public facility and expands learning, gathering, and opportunity for every age group in Whitewater. Our support does not stop at the building. The city recently funded new public use laptops and will invest in additional makerspace equipment in 2026, including upgraded 3D printing and scanning, audio and podcasting tools, and other hands-on learning technology. Thank you to everyone in the community who made this possible, and on behalf of the elected officials and staff, we wish the Whitewater Public Library continued success for years to come.”
The expansion adds an additional 4,400 square feet to the library. The new spaces include three additional study rooms, two of which are equipped with HDMI TVs, an expanded Makerspace, a new Teen Area, an expanded Children’s Area, Meeting Rooms equipped with upgraded AV, a full kitchen, and a hearing loop, and new furniture throughout the building. Meeting and study rooms are reservable online, by phone or email, or in person.
Library Board president Jennifer Motszko states: “On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our incredible library staff, Studio GC, and Miron for their dedication and partnership throughout this project. We are deeply grateful to the many community members who contributed their time, energy, and money to bring this vision to life. The beautifully reimagined Whitewater Public Library now offers a welcoming community gathering space that truly reflects the spirit of Whitewater.”
A grand opening event is planned for Friday, February 6 at 5:30-7:30 p.m. Library Director Diane Jaroch states, “We are very excited to welcome the community back to the library, and we can’t wait to showcase our beautiful building at the Grand Opening. We are so grateful to everyone who made this vision a reality.”
To best utilize the new library spaces, library staff has planned a full calendar of events, details of which can be found on the library’s website at whitewaterlibrary.org/events. Children’s programs, technology classes, chess club, family game night, teen events, an Itty Bitty Art Show, and a Winter Reading Challenge for all ages are just a few of the offerings coming up this winter. All library programs are always free and open to the public.
The Whitewater Public Library is located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater. For more information, visit whitewaterlibrary.org, email library@whitewater-wi.gov or call 262-473-0530.
Snow Placement Prohibited on Public Streets and Alleys
In accordance with City Ordinance 12.08.015 – Snow
Residents are not permitted to deposit snow or ice on any public street, alley, gutter, sidewalk, or other public ground within the city limits.
Section 12.08.015 includes the following provisions:
(a) No person shall plow, shovel, blow, push, or otherwise place snow or ice in any street, alley, gutter, sidewalk, or public ground within the City.
(b) Any person who violates this ordinance is subject to:
- A fine of not less than $75 and not more than $150, plus the costs of prosecution.
- Additional charges if the city must remove the snow or ice. Removal costs will be billed to the property owner at the Street Department’s going rate for time, materials, and equipment.
- If the City contracts removal services, the exact contracted cost will be billed back to the property owner.
- Unpaid charges may be applied as a special tax and lien against the property and added to the next tax roll or collected through legal action.
Important Reminders: - Do NOT place snow in the roadway. It is dangerous, illegal, and obstructs snowplow operations.
- Snow from driveways and sidewalks should be placed on your own lawn or private property—not in any public right-of-way.
- City crews do not clear snow from the ends of private driveways, even if it was deposited there by plows.
- Please consider assisting neighbors who are unable to clear their sidewalks, walkways, or driveways.
- Remind children playing outside to remain alert for snowplows and emergency vehicles.
Your cooperation helps keep our community safe and ensures efficient winter maintenance operations.
Stunning New Cantata Presentation – December 7
WOW! Coming off their Carnegie Hall performance of this cantata on Nov. 17, the First United Methodist Church/Whitewater Area Regional Ministries Choir (and Friends) is thrilled to be presenting “SOLAS” by Heather Sorenson during our 10 am service and again for all at a 1 pm concert. The choir is accompanied by a 19-piece orchestra and James Athas on piano.
SOLAS (Latin for “alone “or “only”) is a musical composition formed around the five pillars of the Christian faith, offering a reflection on the Gospel of Christ. Moving from exploring Scripture alone, Grace alone, Faith alone, to Christ alone, the Cantata culminates in the joyous Glory of God finale, declaring this blessed season of faith. Along with the uplifting sounds of brass, woodwinds, strings and percussion (yes, there are timpani), soloists and narration will enhance the choir performance.
Perhaps one of the most spiritual and uplifting cantatas we have performed, it is generously funded by the Marge and Don Triebold Endowment Fund. Please share this musical experience with your friends and neighbors! You will truly live the “Reason for the Season!”
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by First United Methodist Church.
The Senior Center is accessible and has no stairs. The bathrooms are accessible and are located on the same level as the event.
Register here for the Memory Cafe.
Editor’s note: The above announcement was provided by the Whitewater Public Library.
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The Whitewater Arts Alliance (WAA) will again host its Photos with Santa and Friends event on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 8 am-11 am at the Cultural Arts Center, 402 W. Main Street, Whitewater.
All are invited to take individual or group photos with Santa, Mrs. Claus, Frosty, and the Elves. This is an event children of all ages can enjoy, offering a chance to capture holiday memories while participating in seasonal activities.
Families and friends can look forward to holiday treats, live music, and hands-on projects such as coloring and ornament-making led by Studio 84.
The Cultural Arts Center will be decorated inside and out for the season, with festive outdoor lighting designed by Ben Smith Lighting. This is a free event, and everyone is welcome to join in the celebration. Overflow parking will be available at First English Lutheran Church.
The Whitewater Arts Alliance extends its appreciation to the event sponsors: Associated Bank, Ben Smith Lighting, Dale’s Bootery, Dunkin’ Donuts, First Citizens State Bank, Kwik Trip, PremierBank, Starbucks, Walmart, and Wood Street Bakery.
“Celebrate the holidays with the WAA,” says Gallery Director, Kim Adams. “We look forward to welcoming families, friends, and neighbors for a morning filled with community spirit and holiday cheer.”
Live Life Spiritual Direction Hosts “Stress Management for the Holidays” Workshop in Whitewater
December 3 Event Offers Accessible, Science-Based Tools to Support Emotional and Mental Wellbeing During the Holiday Season
Live Life Spiritual Direction will host Stress Management for the Holidays on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 5:30–6:30 PM at The Sweet Spot Café in Whitewater.
This empowering, community-centered workshop is donation-based (pay what you can), ensuring that everyone—regardless of financial circumstances—can access tools for greater peace, clarity, and resilience during the busy holiday season.
“The holidays are beautiful, but they can also be overwhelming,” said Denise Maple, Chief Spiritual Officer of Live Life Spiritual Direction. “People face increased demands on their time, energy, and emotional bandwidth. This workshop gives participants simple, science-backed strategies to manage stress, support their nervous system, and approach the season with more calm and intention.”
About the Workshop
Participants will explore practical and spiritually grounded techniques drawn from mindfulness, neuroscience, and mind-body practices. The class includes guided reflection, stress identification exercises, and easy-to-use tools that attendees can apply immediately—whether navigating family dynamics, work pressures, or personal expectations.
After completing the workshop, participants will be able to:
- Identify core stressors in their daily life
- Understand the power they have over their mind, health, and emotional environment
- Shift stressors into opportunities for insight and resilience
- Reduce anxiety-producing behaviors and thought patterns
- Apply practical steps to create a more balanced, peaceful state of being
Event Details
Event: Stress Management for the Holidays
Date: Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Time: 5:30–6:30 PM
Location: The Sweet Spot Café, 226 W. Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI
Cost: Donation-based (pay what you can)
Registration: https://livelifespiritual.com/events/holiday-stress-management/
About Live Life Spiritual Direction
Live Life Spiritual Direction is where soul-centered wisdom meets practical, grounded guidance. Led by Denise Maple a mind-body-spirit coach who serves as a spiritual life coach, bioenergetic testing practitioner, Reiki Master, and holistic business coach—this work is rooted in the belief that you deserve to live authentically, vibrantly, and in alignment with who you truly are. Denise welcomes clients at her cozy office on Main Street in Whitewater, Wisconsin, as well as
virtually.
Denise founded Live Life Spiritual Direction to help people move beyond merely surviving and step into a life where they can thrive physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Her approach blends deep spiritual training with over 30 years of business leadership and teaching experience.
As a former Clinical Assistant Professor of Finance at the University of Illinois, honored as a Teacher Rated as Excellent by Students and a Dean’s Impact Award recipient, Denise brings a rare blend of heart, intuition, and grounded expertise. She serves as a compassionate guide to help you unearth and live the Song of Your Soul—so you can expand into your fullest potential with clarity, joy, and confidence.
Editor’s note: Whitewater Unified School District Superintendent Samuel Karns is providing a monthly newsletter which is designed to keep not only parents/guardians and district staff informed, but also the entire community. Shown below are some highlights from the October newsletter. Our apologies for the delay in getting this posted. The entire newsletter may be viewed here.
WUSD Strategic Priorities
Pupil Services
Supporting Students Experiencing Homelessness: Understanding the McKinney-Vento Act
November is designated as National Homeless Awareness Month. In honor of this, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the homelessness experienced by children and families in the Whitewater Unified School District.
Over the past decade, WUSD staff have been working daily to provide support to students and families experiencing homelessness. In fact, in a school district of roughly 2,000 students, nearly 80 students, or 4%, experienced homelessness for part or all of the school year.
Every child deserves a stable and supportive education, regardless of their living situation. Unfortunately, many students face housing instability due to circumstances beyond their control. The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ensures that these students have equal access to the same free, appropriate public education as their peers.
The McKinney-Vento Act provides federal protections and resources for students experiencing homelessness, which may include those living:
- In shelters or motels
- With relatives or friends due to loss of housing or economic hardship
- In cars, parks, or other public places not meant for regular sleeping
- Unaccompanied youth who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence
Under this law, students are entitled to:
- Immediate enrollment in school, even without typical documentation (such as proof of residency or immunization records)
- Transportation assistance to remain in their school of origin, if it is in the child’s best interest
- Access to school meals, extracurricular activities, and support services that promote academic success and stability
- Confidential support through a designated McKinney-Vento liaison, who helps families navigate enrollment, transportation, and community resources
WUSD is committed to identifying and supporting students who may be experiencing homelessness. Staff members receive training to recognize signs of housing instability and to connect families with the district’s McKinney-Vento liaison. The liaison works closely with families to remove barriers to education and link them to additional community supports such as food, clothing, and housing referrals.
If you know of a student or family who might be experiencing homelessness, please reach out to the district’s McKinney-Vento liaison, school principal, or me. Together, we can ensure that every child has a safe, consistent place to learn, grow, and succeed.
With kindness,
Dr. Lanora Heim
Director of Pupil Services
Free Guided Journaling Workshop
Community members are invited to a free guided journaling workshop led by local writer Katy Daixon Wimer. Enjoy reflective journaling prompts and inspiring, lively conversation. Get to know your mind, body, and spirit through writing prompts and oracle cards so you can move towards greater clarity and a deeper sense of self. Bring your own journal or a small one will be provided. Please bring your own pen or favorite writing implement.
Due to library construction, this event will be held at the Cravath Lakefront Community Center at 341 S. Fremont St. in Whitewater on Thursday, December 4 at 6:00-7:30 p.m. This program is for adults. Teens are welcome with a participating adult. Registration is required as space is limited. Visit whitewaterlibrary.org/events to register in advance. You may also email sfrench@whitewater-wi.gov or call 262-458-2782 to register, or with any questions.
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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