Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Friday, June 19, 2026
News & Events
To add an event, click here to go to the Community Calendar. Then, click on Submit Event.
Helpful Links
Search our Archives
To search our archives, enter a search term in the search box, then press enter to search.
The following students will represent the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater as student teachers during the fall 2025 semester:
53190 Whitewater, WI: Dawson France, who is majoring in Music and will work in Music at Cambridge High School the Cambridge school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: Elyse Hansen, who is majoring in Elementary Education and will work in Elementary & Middle at Washington-Caldwell School the Washington-Caldwell school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: Caleb Karlson, who is majoring in Physical Education and will work in Physical Education at Dakota Junior/Senior High School the Dakota CUSD 201 school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: Dylan Kleinschmidt, who is majoring in English Education and will work in English at Ft. Atkinson High School the Ft. Atkinson school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: James McCulloch, who is majoring in Undeclared and will work in Theatre at Whitewater High School the Whitewater school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: Bradley Morris, who is majoring in Music and will work in Music at Winnebago Middle & High School the Winnebago CUSD 323 school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: Aiden Murray, who is majoring in Physical Education and will work in Physical Education at West Elementary School the Jefferson school district(s).
Students from the university’s College of Education and Professional Studies will serve as student teachers through January 2026.
A total of 179 UW-Whitewater students were placed in school districts around the region starting in August. Student teaching is the final activity before teacher candidates earn their degree and license.
UW-Whitewater will partner with 223 cooperating teachers across 175 schools in 117 districts over the course of the semester.
Student teachers assist cooperating teachers with lesson planning, instruction and assessment. This fall, 42 UW-Whitewater teacher candidates were hired by school districts as student teaching interns as part of the Department of Public Instruction’s Wisconsin Improvement Program (WIP). Interns are licensed by the DPI to teach up to 50 percent of each day on their own and receive a stipend for the semester.
UW-Whitewater licenses the most teachers in the state of Wisconsin. Educating teachers was the university’s original mission during its founding in 1868. To learn more about the College of Education and Professional Studies at UW-Whitewater, visit uww.edu/coeps.
Editor’s note: The students who are listed here have registered with Whitewater as their hometown. The image on the homepage is by Craig Schreiner / UW-Whitewater.
Little Rainbows Play Place is turning one! The beloved family-owned indoor play space opened on October 17, 2024, is celebrating its first anniversary with a Birthday Party Celebration on Saturday, October 18, 2025.
Families are invited to join the fun during one of three time slots — 9:00–11:30 AM, 11:30 AM–2:00 PM, or 2:00–4:30 PM — for a day filled with cupcake decorating, face painting, crafts, open playtime, and a festive balloon drop to close out each session.
Tickets are $8 per child, while adults and infants under 6 months are free. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all. Tickets can be purchased online at www.littlerainbowsfort.com/event-list [Note: in order to choose the second or third time period it’s necessary to “select a different date.]
“We’re so grateful for the incredible support we’ve received over the past year—from our amazing members and families who host parties with us, to our wonderful staff and the Fort Atkinson community,” said Niina and Jason Konz, owners of Little Rainbows Play Place. “This celebration is our way of saying thank you and marking a year full of laughter, learning, and connection.”
Located in Fort Atkinson, Little Rainbows Play Place offers inclusive play for children of all abilities, featuring a large play structure, imaginative play areas, adaptive swings, a baby/toddler zone, and a snack bar. The space is designed to help families connect and create joyful memories together.
Join the celebration and help Little Rainbows Play Place kick off its second year with color, creativity, and community!
The Whitewater Whippets Cross Country Teams toed the line at the Rock Valley Conference Championships on Thursday, October 16, turning in several standout performances on a notoriously difficult course at UW-Whitewater.
Led by freshman Tyler Carollo, the boys’ team placed 10th overall in the conference and fifth in the Valley Division. Carollo earned Second Team All-Conference honors, finishing 14th overall with a time of 18:50. The freshman showed exceptional composure and grit, racing his way into the top 16 to secure all-conference recognition in his first varsity season.
Marcus Roselle delivered his strongest race of the year, running a lifetime personal best of 20:26 to finish 52nd overall. Wyatt Esch followed close behind in 20:32 for 55th place, while Isaiah Mendez clocked 20:47 for 60th, just 13 seconds shy of his all-time best. Quinton O’Toole rounded out the top five in 21:47, placing 67th.
Also competing for the varsity squad were Angel Kilar (72nd, 22:44) and Carson Miller, who capped off his season with a personal best of 23:39 to finish 74th.
In the junior varsity race, Sam Nickelsburg led the Whippets with a career-best 23:25, good for 35th overall. All four JV runners recorded lifetime bests, including Jameson Rothwell (24:07), Ian Agen (26:22), and Steinar Truesdale (30:29), who completed his first race of the season after battling injuries.
On the girls’ side, Virginia Nelson led the way once again, earning Honorable Mention All-Conference honors with a 19th-place finish in 22:56, improving on her 22nd-place finish from last year.
Freshman Melody Smith had a breakthrough performance, taking nearly a minute off her previous best to finish 34th in 24:35. Ema Aranda (35th, 24:36) and Delaney Hammack (40th, 24:54) weren’t far behind, providing steady depth for the Whippets.
Payton Brautigam and Noelia Villegas-Korbel crossed the line nearly together, with Brautigam edging ahead for 57th in 28:19 and Villegas-Korbel following in 28:20. Madelyn Taylor rounded out the varsity lineup in 28:47 for 61st.
The girls’ team placed sixth overall out of 11 schools, finishing third in the Valley Division.
In JV action, Peyton Comfort highlighted the day with a massive personal best of 27:00 to take 14th. Kelly Mayorga finished 23rd in 32:31.
Head Coach Chad Carstens praised the team’s effort and progress over the season, saying, “We’re really proud of how our athletes competed today. It’s always rewarding to see so many lifetime bests and strong finishes at the conference meet. Tyler and Virginia led with outstanding races, but what stood out most was how much grit not only Tyler and Virginia have, but the team as a whole. Competing in cross country is not easy, and they rose to the challenge and gave it their all.”
Full results: https://www.athletic.net/CrossCountry/meet/259066/info
Next up will be the WIAA Sectional CC meet in Cambridge at Cam Rock Park #2.
Article and Photos Submitted by Chad Carstens
Whitewater High School Head Cross Country Coach
ccarstens@wwusd.org
Editor’s note: We published the wrong time for this event. It is actually 7:00 p.m. Also, we have been informed that due to the state band competition, patrons are requested to park in lot #1.
Ballet Hispánico – Saturday, October 18, 7:00 p.m. – The Young Performing Arts Center, 800 W. Main Street, Whitewater – All tickets are $40 and may be purchased online. There is an additional $3 per ticket charge at the door. Parking is free – lot #2 is the closest to the venue.
Ballet Hispánico is the nation’s leading Hispanic/Latin dance company and the largest cultural institution of its kind in the United States. For over five decades, it has been a beacon of artistic excellence, celebrated for its bold repertory and exceptional training programs. The Company has commissioned over 100 original works, performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, and inspired generations through performances, education, and community engagement. Recognized as one of America’s Cultural Treasures by the Ford Foundation, Ballet Hispánico continues to redefine what it means to be an American dance company.
From Ballet Hispánico’s website:
Our performances seamlessly blend dance excellence, contemporary innovation, and cultural authenticity, telling stories that resonate across generations and cultures. Featuring works by renowned and emerging choreographers, we have reached over 2 million audience members since our founding. With every movement, our dance works bring to life the vibrant traditions and modern expressions of Latinidad.
From the press:
“Explosive.” – The New York Times
“Infectious…. Playful…” – The New Yorker
“Ballet Hispánico dances with elegance and lyricism.” – The Washington Post
In conjunction with this month’s Wisconsin Science Festival — a celebration of science, art, and technology — the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater department of chemistry will host a chemistry demonstration showcasing the wild and whimsical side of science on Thursday, Oct. 23, at 7 p.m. in room 145 of Upham Hall [771 W. Starin Rd.] on the Whitewater campus.
The event, titled “Bedtime Dreams: The Mystical World of Chemistry — Spicy Spectacles, Magical Reactions, and Rockin’ Science Fun,” is open to the public and is free to attend. Free parking is available in UW-Whitewater’s Lot 14, which can be found on the university’s campus map.
UW-Whitewater faculty and students will show the power of chemistry to create visual, dramatic reactions. The one-hour presentation is light, fun, and fit for families and students of all ages, including high school and college students.
The demonstration is also part of programming for UW-Whitewater’s Homecoming 2025 and the American Chemistry Society’s National Chemistry Week and National Mole Day.
For more information, visit wisconsinsciencefest.org.
JEFFERSON COUNTY 2025 FALL HOUSEHOLD
ELECTRONIC & APPLIANCE RECYCLING EVENT
The Jefferson County Solid Waste Program will be holding an Electronic & Appliance Recycling Event on Saturday, October 18 from 8-11 a.m. at the Jefferson County Fair Park (503 North Jackson Ave, Jefferson). The event is open to all Jefferson County HOUSEHOLDS.
You do not need to register for the event! Simply, come to the Fair Park between 8 and 11 a.m. First come, first served. Please note that gates may close prior to 11 a.m. if there is a large turnout. Cost: $10 per vehicle (cash only).
Acceptable Electronics:
Computers (desktop, laptop & notebook); Computer accessories (keyboards, mice, hard drives, scanners, speakers & other devices); Monitors; TVs; DVDs; VCRs; Fax machines, Stereos; Calculators; iPads; Camcorders; Shredders; Tablets; Cameras; Copiers; Game Consoles; E-Readers; Electric Motors; Modems; Printers (desktops, 3-D & combos); Handheld Electronics; Microwaves; Cellphones; Adding machines; Vacuums; Scanners; Monitors; Toasters
Acceptable Appliances:
Refrigerators (mini & regular); Freezers (chest & upright); Dishwashers; Air conditioners; Water heaters
**If possible, please remove all batteries prior to recycling.
Items not accepted: smoke detectors, fluorescent bulbs, batteries, fans, coffee makers, blenders, hazardous waste, latex paint or unused prescription drugs.
For information about this or upcoming events, go to www.jeffersoncountywi.gov/cleansweep or contact Kim at 920-674-7430 or kimb@jeffersoncountywi.gov
Editor’s note: Jefferson County has previously indicated to The Banner that residents of the City of Whitewater are welcome to participate in their events, regardless of whether they live in Jefferson or Walworth County.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. This week’s image is from the early 20th century of an unidentified man by the Whitewater Passenger Depot. In the background are buildings that were demolished in the 1960s for the fire department building and the later-added municipal building. The building with the tower is the 1888-constructed commercial building that housed the Dierfeld grocery store for decades. When it was completed, it was described as one of the most elegant buildings in the downtown. The museum has the plans for this building executed by Henry Messmer, a prominent Milwaukee architect.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(5065P, Whitewater Historical Society)
The Whitewater Whippet Girls’ Tennis team concluded its season with its tennis banquet. Taryn Rothwell received 2nd team All Rock Valley Conference in Singles, and Lillian Navejas Ortiz received Rock Valley Conference Honorable Mention based upon her play this year at #2 singles. Izzy Lawton and Serina Soto received the Most Improved Player. Kiani Aranda and Natalia Casillas received the Sportsmanship Award, and Ruth Lopez won the Heart Award for 2025.
Article and Photos Submitted by Greg Stewart
Whitewater High School Head Girls’ Tennis Coach
gstewart@wwusd.org
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
Other Recent Posts
Click on the title to view the post. To open the post in a new tab, press Ctrl (Cmd on a Mac) while clicking on the title.
