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Today is Saturday, June 13, 2026
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The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater renews their title sponsorship for the Discover Whitewater Series (DWS): Half Marathon, 5K, Fit Kid Shuffle, and 5K Teams event! The University has supported the event ever since its inaugural race in 2013. The DWS team is excited to work with the University again this year to continue this event’s success!
The 14th annual DWS will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026. The DWS is excited to announce that the start and finish line for both courses will be held at the university again due to the great turn out from last year! The courses will end at Perkins Stadium, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s football field; participants will be cheered on as they run through the stadium, ending with a huge celebration! The University has gone above and beyond to support the DWS by providing the assistance of volunteers, University Police, and other staff members to ensure the safety and quality of the event.
UW-Whitewater is a premier academic institution driven by the pursuit of knowledge, powered by the spirit of innovation, and focused on transforming lives. UW-Whitewater offers many academic programs that range from study of the arts, business, education, humanities, natural sciences, and technology programs that benefit undergraduate, graduate, and online learners. All these programs can be offered at the associate, bachelor, masters, and doctoral levels. These programs prepare students to become lifelong learners, leading them to a successful life and productive careers.
The University also helps support and staff the Kids Korral; an all-day child-care service that is free to all runners the day of the event. On race day, participants’ children have a morning of safe and fun play with certified caretakers from Aspiring Educators, some of whom graduated or are pursuing education from the University itself.
Participants will also have open entry to William’s Center during race day, having access to the showers, bathrooms, and other facilities that the University is providing! The DWS team is thankful for the University’s continued support of our 14th Annual Race!
To register for the 14th annual DWS and to learn more about its sponsors, charity partners, and the University’s involvement, visit www.RunWhitewater.com/Register.
Photo courtesy of Tom Ganser.
Ron Binning recently was able to capture this photo of a male Rose-breasted Grossbeak and a male Baltimore Oriole at his bird feeder.
Is the Baltimore Oriole named for the city? Per Wikipedia, the species received its name from the resemblance of the male’s colors to those on the coat-of-arms of 17th-century Lord Baltimore.
Our thanks to Ron Binning for sharing this beautiful sight from his bird feeder.
On Saturday, May 23rd at 2:00 p.m. members of American Legion Post 173 will gather in the center of Hillside Cemetery to decorate the veterans’ graves at the cemetery. Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, 4-H clubs and all other community members are invited to participate. Post 173 will provide the flags.
Congratulations to the members of the Class of 2026 who took a step closer to graduation last night, Monday, May 18 by presenting their portfolios. The Portfolio event is an opportunity for seniors to reflect on their time at WHS, share examples of their academic work and their involvement in activities in and outside of school, and describe their postsecondary plans and career goals. We are extremely grateful to our teachers, community volunteers, and families who joined in the event.
On Monday, May 18th, 2026, at approximately 9:01 p.m., the Rock County Sheriff’s Office and Town of Beloit EMS responded to a report of a single vehicle crash with injuries on W. Saint Lawrence Ave. and S. Burchfield Rd., in the Town of Newark, County of Rock, Wisconsin.
The investigation revealed a Honda Accord operated by a 33-year-old male from Whitewater, WI, was traveling eastbound on W. Saint Lawrence Ave. just west of S. Burchfield Rd. The vehicle lost control and went into the ditch on the north side of the road. The vehicle rolled and ultimately came to rest on the north side of the road.
As Deputies and EMS arrived on scene, life saving measures were performed and the driver was transported via EMS to Beloit Memorial Hospital. He was later pronounced deceased at the hospital. There were no other occupants or vehicles involved in the crash.
The Rock County Medical Examiner’s Office, City of Beloit Police Department, and the Town of Beloit EMS all responded to the scene and assisted.
The name of the deceased will be released on a later date by the Rock County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The investigation is ongoing, but at this time nothing criminal is suspected.
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Rock County Sheriff’s Office.
The City of Whitewater and the Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce recently conducted a Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) visit with leadership from Provisur Technologies to discuss the company’s operations, workforce needs, and continued investment in the Whitewater community.
The visit was conducted by Mason Becker, Community Development Director for the City of Whitewater, and Karin Silvius, Executive Director of the Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce. They met with Imad Hamdan, Plant Manager for Provisur’s Whitewater facility.
Provisur Technologies has maintained a longstanding manufacturing presence in Whitewater and is recognized globally for producing advanced food processing equipment and industrial technologies. Formerly known locally as Weiler and Co., the company’s Whitewater operations continue to play an important role in the local manufacturing economy and regional workforce development efforts.
During the meeting, Hamdan discussed recent developments within the company, including Provisur’s acquisition by Fortifi Food Processing Solutions. The conversation also focused on workforce recruitment, the global supply chain, and opportunities to strengthen partnerships between industry and local educational institutions.
“With around 180 employees, Provisur continues to be a major manufacturing employer and community partner in Whitewater,” said Mason Becker, Community Development Director. “It was valuable to hear directly about their operational needs, workforce opportunities, and commitment to supporting local talent development.”
Karin Silvius noted the importance of maintaining close communication with manufacturers and employers throughout the region.
“Business retention visits help us better understand how local employers are adapting to changing economic conditions,” said Silvius. “Provisur’s willingness to engage with schools and workforce development initiatives is especially encouraging.”
Hamdan highlighted the company’s continued support of technical education programs in Whitewater, including its involvement with the robotics lab at Whitewater High School. “We believe it is important to invest in the next generation of skilled workers,” said Hamdan. “Supporting programs like the robotics lab helps expose students to manufacturing, engineering, and technical career pathways at an early age.”
Workforce development remains a key focus for the company, particularly in recruiting experienced machinists and other skilled manufacturing employees. “Like many manufacturers, we are facing some challenges finding skilled machinists,” Hamdan said. “At the same time, we are very open to training motivated high school graduates for entry level grinding positions and helping them build long-term careers in manufacturing.”
Hamdan also noted that while supply chain conditions have improved compared to recent years, manufacturers continue to experience occasional disruptions and material sourcing challenges. Provisur remains focused on maintaining strong relationships with key suppliers and other partners to help minimize impacts and support operational continuity.
More information on Provisur, including employment, can be found at the company’s website, provisur.com.
The City of Whitewater and the Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce regularly conduct BRE visits with local employers as part of ongoing efforts to support business retention, workforce development, and long-term economic growth throughout the community.
For more information on the BRE Program, contact:
City of Whitewater Community Development Department
Attn: Mason Becker, Community Development Director
312 W. Whitewater Street
Whitewater, WI 53190
Phone: (262) 473 -0148
Email: mbecker@whitewater-wi.gov
Website: www.whitewater-wi.gov
Prestigious honor recognizes decades of dedication, leadership, and passion for the Ice Age National Scenic Trail
Cross Plains, Wis. — Barb and Jerome Converse of Whitewater have been named the 2026 recipients of the Spirit Stick Award, the most prestigious honor presented by the Ice Age Trail Alliance. The award recognizes long-term dedication, leadership, and a deep passion for the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
The Converses were honored on April 25 during the Alliance’s Annual Conference Awards and Recognition ceremony.
Presented annually, the Spirit Stick Award celebrates individuals for whom the Trail is not just a place but a way of life. Recipients are selected by Alliance staff from nominations submitted by members, volunteers, and staff, following a rigorous review process. Inspired by the European “Wood Spirit” legend, the award symbolizes enduring commitment, enthusiasm, and the ability to inspire others.
Barb and Jerome Converse exemplify these qualities through decades of service and leadership. As dedicated members of the Walworth/Jefferson County Chapter, they have been a steady and positive force through multiple periods of growth and change within the organization.
Their contributions span Trail construction and maintenance, youth engagement, community outreach, and more. Whether working on local projects or supporting statewide efforts, the Converses have consistently shown up; month after month, year after year bringing optimism, cooperation, and a deep belief in the Ice Age Trail’s future.
“Jerome and Barb have been a steady, positive force for the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and Alliance for decades,” says Luke Kloberdanz, Executive Director and CEO of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. “Their volunteer involvement has impacted multiple areas of our work. Their generosity and leadership continue to strengthen the entire organization.”
The Spirit Stick Award honors individuals who lead by example, inspire those around them, and carry out service with cooperation, enthusiasm, and optimism. The Converses’ impact reaches far beyond any single project—and has helped lay the foundation for future generations to explore, connect with, and continue building the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
“Their dedication is a powerful reminder that meaningful progress on the Trail happens over time through persistence, belief, and a willingness to keep showing up,” says Kloberdanz.
About the Ice Age Trail Alliance:
The Ice Age Trail Alliance is a nonprofit member- and volunteer-based organization that conserves, creates, maintains, and promotes the Ice Age National Scenic Trail along with the Wisconsin Department of Tourism and the National Park Service. To learn more about the Alliance, including how you can get involved, visit www.IceAgeTrail.org.
About the Ice Age National Scenic Trail:
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile footpath contained entirely within Wisconsin. It traverses the state from St. Croix Falls in the west, to Sturgeon Bay in the east, going as far south as Janesville. One of 11 National Scenic Trails, the Ice Age Trail highlights the landscapes carved out by ancient glaciers, which happen to be some of the most beautiful areas in the state. Approximately 78% of Wisconsin residents live within 30 miles of the Ice Age Trail.
Molly Griep-Popowski recently earned Northeast Region Girls’ Track and Field Coach of the Year honors in North Dakota.
Molly’s team had 24 athletes qualify for the state track and field meet, which will take place May 21–23 in Bismarck. Reflecting on the achievement, Molly said, “I have a great staff of coaches that dedicate a lot of their time and are selfless in helping get this track team where it is today.”
Molly has served as the head coach at Hatton-Northwood High School for the past three years and has been involved with the program for six years overall. She is currently a K–6 physical education teacher at Northwood Public School.
A 2012 graduate of Whitewater High School, Molly is the daughter of Pete and Lisa Griep. During her time at Whitewater, she became — and remains — the school record holder in both the shot put and discus. She also captured the state championship in the shot put in 2012. She earned High School All-American Honors in that event as well as discus.
Congratulations, Molly!
Article Submitted by Chad Carstens
Whitewater High School Assistant Track and Field Coach
ccarstens@wwusd.org
Obituaries
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
Lois Cummings, 99, of Fond du Lac, WI (formerly of Janesville, WI, Fort Atkinson, WI, Fountain Hills, AZ, and Green Valley, AZ) passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026 at the Meadows Senior Residence in Fond du Lac surrounded by family. Lois was born on February 17, 1927 in Fort Atkinson to Edward and Clarice (Roseth) Stevens. The middle child of 9 children, she attended Fort Atkinson schools and graduated in 1944. On September 11, 1948 Lois married Grant Cummings at Saint Andrew Catholic Church in Delavan, WI. Together they had 3 children, Gary, Colleen (Tom) Sabel, and Patty (Paul) … Read more
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