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Today is Friday, June 19, 2026
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The League of Women Voters Whitewater Area is hosting this community hearing which will be led by the Wisconsin Fair Maps Coalition. Registration is appreciated; scan the above QR code or click here and choose “Take Action” and “Fair Maps Community Hearings.”
A workshop on both needle and wet felting will take place Monday, Nov. 3, in Whitewater. It is set for 5 to 8 p.m. at Wisconsin Makers, 200 E. Clay St.
The fee is $20, materials included. Payment may be made at the class. Register by calling instructor Leani Schoor at (608) 421-4078 or emailing her at leanischoor@gmail.com. Having earned her Bachelor of Science degree in art education and master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Schoor taught art at Jefferson High School for 38 years.
The owner of Studio 2154 in Madison, she teaches wet and needle felting, beadwork, glass fusing, cement yard art, ceramics, copper enameling, metal work and quilting. Located at the corner of East Clay and Wisconsin streets in Whitewater, Wisconsin Makers is a makerspace or community workshop. For more
information, contact Chris Spangler at (920) 728-2960.
The City of Whitewater would like to remind everyone that winter parking hours go into effect on November 1, 2025. [That means it goes into effect on Saturday at 2 a.m.]
Effective Dates: November 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026
Key Rule:
🚫 No parking allowed on any City of Whitewater street between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Exceptions:
🚑 Physicians/surgeons on emergency call
🅿️ Downtown parking is allowed after 5:00 a.m.
✅ Special permission may be granted in advance by the Public Works Director
Penalties:
Violators will be subject to fines and enforcement under Municipal Code Sections
11.56.010(4) & (5).
Roy Quickel writes, “My name is Roy “Flexxington” Quickel, I’m a Whitewater local, and I wanted to share something special I created this Halloween — a modern video reimagining of Monster Mash, made entirely as a passion project.
Ever since I was a kid, Monster Mash was the song that meant Halloween in our house. It played every October, and it stuck with me all these years. When I looked online recently, I couldn’t find any video that captured the spirit, or really any besides an old cartoon video released by the creator Bobby Pickett — so I decided to make my own.
Every monster and singer in this video is actually me performing behind the scenes — I used AI overlays to transform my own movements into each character, blending classic nostalgia with new creative tech. It’s not monetized, just something made from the heart to celebrate Halloween and the creativity it inspires. It’s a fun example of how local creators are using new tools to bring timeless classics to life again.
You can watch it here: https://youtu.be/HbqG2irUC2g
Our thanks to Roy “Flexxington” Quickel for sharing this fun video for Halloween.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. Happy Halloween! The society does not have any real Halloween-related photos, and we usually use cemetery views for our “spooky” content. This year we are featuring a boy (Donald Lean) in what he probably thought was a “costume” suitable for trick or treating–a Buster Brown suit. A while ago, we featured a little boy in a late 19th century “Little Lord Fauntleroy” suit. After 1900, the fad changed to Buster Brown, a character created in 1902. Buster Brown was depicted in a suit with a long tunic coat with belt, oversized bow, knickers, and a “bowl” hair cut of a bob with bangs. Mothers loved dressing their boys up as Little Lord Fauntleroy or Buster Brown, but whether the boys wanted to wear these outfits is debatable.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(1550P, Whitewater Historical Society)
The Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee of the League of Women Voters Whitewater Area will hold the third and final Book Club discussions on our fall book selection, American Madness: Fighting for Patients in a Broken Mental Health System by Alice Feller, M.D., on Thursday evening, November 13, 6:15 PM-7:45 PM, at The Book Teller, 171 W Main Street, in Whitewater.
The book explores the complex realities of mental health care in the United States. Our discussion on November 13th will cover 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.
The LWV Book Club was formed to help our members and friends engage in meaningful discussions of current notable books dealing with public policy issues of interest to the League. You do not need to be a member of the League to participate 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
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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!
Written by Chris Lindeke | Photos by Craig Schreiner
During his tenure at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Chancellor Corey A. King has overseen three consecutive years of enrollment growth and a renewed sense of pride from students, faculty, staff, and alums behind a “Warhawk Bold” mentality he instilled on campus.
King was recognized for his efforts as the Milwaukee Business Journal selected him as one of 21 C-Suite Stars for 2025. He is one of six honorees in the Top Executive category, and the only higher education leader recognized.
King is joined on the full list by leaders from Bank Five Nine, Marcus Corporation, the Milwaukee Brewers, Northwestern Mutual, and other businesses and organizations in Milwaukee and southern Wisconsin.
“I’m honored to be selected among this group of talented individuals, but I’m most proud of serving as this university’s chancellor and all that we’ve accomplished together,” King said. “Over the last three years, I’ve witnessed the dedication, passion, and talent that make our university thrive. I’m so proud to call UW-Whitewater my home.
“I’d like to thank the Milwaukee Business Journal for putting a spotlight on our university and its contributions to southern Wisconsin. At UW-Whitewater, our guiding compass is student success and doing all we can to positively transform students’ lives. By supporting students’ educational goals, we are ensuring a bright future for the region and state.”
Since his arrival in March 2023, King has inspired the campus under the mantra “Warhawk Bold,” empowering faculty, staff, and community members to work collaboratively as they solve problems and drive positive change for the present and future stability of the university. A first-generation college student, King has placed a focus on student success and eliminating barriers to academic progress and graduation.
Last month, UW-Whitewater announced its largest incoming class in nearly a decade for fall 2025, and its enrollment of 12,267 students — as recently announced by the Universities of Wisconsin — is up 4.4% from fall 2024.
Under King’s leadership, UW-Whitewater has also transformed its financial stability, eliminating a structural deficit that was as high as $8.9 million and beginning the 2025-26 academic year with a positive cash flow. This past year, the university launched a $50 million fundraising campaign — “Our stories. Our future.” — the single largest philanthropic effort in its history. To date, over $28 million has been raised.
King’s leadership has led to physical changes on campus. Last spring, UW-Whitewater received state approval to renovate Winther Hall, home of the College of Education and Professional Studies, and Heide Hall, and will see several minor facilities projects begin thanks to the largest increase in state funding for the Universities of Wisconsin in 20 years.
King has rallied colleagues across both campuses to focus on student success. Earlier this month, UW-Whitewater was named the top Wisconsin public university in student experience and social mobility by The Wall Street Journal. In fall 2024, the university launched One Stop, a universal, on-site resource available to students who have questions about any aspect of academic success and campus life. King’s focus in the areas of veteran and servicemember success and mental health have continually enhanced the Warhawk student experience.
Since joining the UW-Whitewater team, King has been a member of the Higher Education Regional Alliance (HERA) executive leadership team, the Walworth County Economic Development Alliance Board, the Whitewater Chamber of Commerce Board, and the Greater Whitewater Committee. He is a strong proponent of programs like the King/Chávez Scholars Program that create pipelines from Milwaukee to the university and support social mobility.
King was announced as UW-Whitewater’s 18th chancellor in January 2023 after serving as vice chancellor for inclusivity and student affairs at UW-Green Bay.
Two other Warhawks were recognized on the Milwaukee Business Journal’s list. Dave Anderson, who graduated from UW-Whitewater with a BBA in accounting and finance and serves as senior vice president/senior executive for Southeast Wisconsin at BMO Financial Group, joined King on the list of Top Executive honorees. Lynnette Fritz, who earned a B.A. in communication (public relations) and is the chief human resources officer at OwnersEdge, is among the publication’s Top HR honorees.
The Discover Whitewater Series is hosting their 13th Annual Post-Race Banquet on November 5, 2025. The event will be held at Willow Brook Golf Course in Whitewater, WI.
The Discover Whitewater Series (DWS) is set to host their 13th Annual Post-Race Banquet to celebrate their charity partners and to honor their sponsors, volunteers, team leaders, and community members. The Greater Whitewater Committee in partnership with the Discover Whitewater Series will present proceeds and donations to their four local charity partners: Bethel House, University of Whitewater Foundation (Athletics), J-Hawk Aquatic Club, and Whitewater LEADS.
The DWS’s Annual Banquet is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, November 5th at 5:00 p.m. at Willow Brook Golf Course: N9035 Highway 89, Whitewater, WI 53190. The public is more than welcome to attend this banquet to learn about what our sponsors and team leaders do for our race. If you are interested in attending, you must RSVP. To reserve your invitation and get involved, contact Em Duffek at design@knightpublicaffairs.com by Friday, October 31st. Formal invitations will be sent to those being honored in the coming weeks.
The Executive Board has met and confirmed that they are set to host the 14th Annual Race on September 20th, 2026, at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. They are looking to add two new concepts to next year’s event and are asking for the help of the community.
“We are very hopeful to reinstate the Fit Kid Shuffle,” said GWC President, Jeffery Knight. “It would be free to children under the age of 10 and include first, second, third place trophies, along with medals, for each age group: 4 and under, 5 and 6, 7 and 8, 9 and 10. We’re looking for an organization to manage this event as part of the DWS team.”
Next year’s event will also incorporate a new traveling trophy for 5k teams. The two categories will be teams made up of sponsors/businesses or student organizations that can create groups of four and top three times will solidify their place as top finishers. Whoever wins the traveling trophy will get their company/organization’s name inscribed on it and keep it until the next race.
If you have any interest in help with the Fit Kid Shuffle, the traveling trophy 5k event, or for further details, please contact Jeffery Knight at 920.728.0662 or jpk@knightpublicaffairs.com.
About the DWS
The goal of the DWS is to promote the City of Whitewater and highlight its greatest features, while keeping everyone in the community active. All the proceeds from the race are donated to local non-profit partners: Bethel House (which provides interim housing for homeless families), J-Hawk Aquatic Club, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Foundation of Athletics, and Whitewater LEADS. The DWS partners with the city, business community, and university to make this a tremendous event that benefits all who participate. For more information about the race visit www.runwhitewater.com. For further details, please contact Jeffery Knight, Executive Director at 920.728.0662 or jpk@knightpublicaffairs.com.
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Knight Public Affairs.
Obituaries
Marion Jauch Burrows (Feb. 2, 1930 – June 5, 2026) Her sparkling eyes, warm laugh, and generous ways were gifts Marion brought into this world, touching family members and friends alike over the ninety-six years of her life. She was born and raised in Lombard, IL, and in the course of her life lived with her husband and growing family in Abilene, TX, St. David’s, PA, Arkadelphia, AR, Ada, OK, and Colorado Springs, CO, before settling in Whitewater, WI, in 1965. Generosity of heart, compassion toward those in need in and beyond her community, and an unwavering commitment to fairness … Read more
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
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