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Today is Friday, June 19, 2026
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Come enjoy encouraging Christian music and a challenging message from the Bible, presented by the Southland Ministry Team! The SMT is a traveling ensemble (vocal and instrumental quartet) whose purposes include supporting the local church in music and preaching, encouraging young people to live for God, and promoting the opportunities of Southland Christian Ministries. The SMT also offers print and digital resources designed to help in spiritual growth.
The public is cordially invited.
For more information regarding the concert, please call the church at 262-473-2224 or send an email to kmbc@kmbcwi.org.
“Dungeons & Dragons: Twenty-Sided Tavern” at the Young Auditorium, 930 W. Main St., Whitewater
Tuesday, October 14 & Wednesday, October 15, 7:00 p.m.
Tickets start at $46
Free parking is available in lots 1 and 2 (lot 2 is the most convenient to the venue).
The global phenomenon that is DUNGEONS & DRAGONS is now live on-stage in an experience that Nerdist calls “Rip-roaring funny,” and “Truly a wonder to behold!” Join us for an interactive fantasy adventure where you choose your heroes, battle monsters and help three adventurers on an epic quest to save the world. A blend of theatre, gaming and one-of-a-kind storytelling, this show is for you whether you are curious about D&D, a die-hard gamer or a lover of adventure. No matter what quest you conquer, this experience will never be the same twice!
TIME OUT NY Gives it 4 Stars:
“★ ★ ★ ★! Whether or not you know much about D&D going in, it’s an adventuring party you won’t want to miss.”
“The Life of Chuck”
Tuesday, October 14, 1 pm
(Drama/Fantasy/Whimsy)
Rated R (language); 1 hour, 51 minutes (2025).
Based on a short story by Stephen King. Praised for its deep, thought-provoking themes about life, death and human connection. Three chapters in the life of an ordinary man, Charles Krantz (Tom Hiddleston). Also stars Mark Hamill.
Seniors in the Park is located in Starin Park, 504 W. Starin Road. Although there is no charge to attend, regular participants are encouraged to join Seniors in the Park. The annual fee for residents of the Whitewater Unified School District is $10 and non-residents is $15. The funds support about half of the cost of our front desk staff person for 15 hours per week. The rest comes out of our fundraising monies. If you cannot afford the fee, we have a fund that will cover it for you. Fees are accepted at the Starin Park Community Building or online at https://schedulesplus.com/wwtr/kiosk/
On Thursday, October 16, join Josh Schoemann, Republican Candidate for Governor, for a meet and greet at 841 Brewhouse! 5:30 – 7pm.
This is an excellent opportunity to talk with Josh, hear about his vision for the future of Wisconsin, and share your thoughts!
RSVP to host Mike Smith – 262.366.0467
Editor’s Note: The above announcement was provided by the campaign. The Whitewater Banner is pleased to provide candidates whose name will be on area ballots the opportunity for a limit of one post each during the primary and the general campaigns. All of the announcements during the primary campaign will feature the homepage image used on this post. The Banner does not endorse candidates.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. This week’s image is a rare one depicting the old Union School and Universalist Church at the corner of Center and Prairie Streets. On the left is the Union School, the second elementary school in Whitewater built in 1854. It was demolished for the old “Big Brick” elementary and high school built on this site in 1884. That building burned in 1927 and the site is today the “Big Brick Park.” The church is the Universalist Church, built in 1868-69. In 1921 it became “Salisbury Hall,” a cafeteria site for the Normal School (UWW). It sold subscription meals to both students and faculty. It burned in 1929 and houses were built on the site (southwest corner of Center and Prairie Streets). This image dates to c.1880.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(3285ST, Whitewater Historical Society)
LWV Whitewater Area Program on The Art of Healing: Exploring Mental Well-Being Through Creative Expression
The League of Women Voters Whitewater Area is pleased to announce a public program on The Art of Healing: Exploring Mental Well-Being Through Creative Expression on Thursday, October 16th, 6:30PM – 8:00PM at the Cultural Arts Center – Whitewater Arts Alliance, 902 W Main Street, Whitewater. Overflow parking is available in the First English Lutheran Church parking lot, 401 W Main Street, and on Park Street.
The program will be a panel discussion on the profound connection between creative expression and mental wellness, moving beyond the traditional framework of therapy to explore the arts as a powerful tool for resilience, healing, and self-discovery. A diverse panel of experts will share their unique perspectives on how engaging in the arts can foster emotional processing and improve overall mental health.
Panelists include: Kristen Monday, pre-K-12th-grade art teacher and certified art therapist; James Olm, composer, lyricist, and librettist; Verónica Soria-Martínez, UWW Assistant Professor of Art Education; Christian Ellenwood, composer, clarinetist, and UWW Professor of Music; Professor Emerita Barbara Grubel, recently retired from 22 years of dedicated service in the UWW Theatre/Dance Department; and, Caleb Flack, Assistant Professor in the School Psychology Graduate Program within the UWW Department of Psychology.
Please join us as the panelists share the therapeutic benefits of creative expression, explore the science behind these benefits, share real-world applications, and discuss how to make the arts accessible to a wider audience for personal and community healing.
You do not need to be a League member to attend and refreshments will be served. For questions or further information please contact Dwight C. Watson, dwight.watsondcw@gmail.com.
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.
| October Peak Day Is Almost Here! |
| As the seasons change, millions of migratory birds are taking off on their incredible journeys across plains, seas, mountains, crossing multiple international borders along the way. This natural event brings us together to celebrate the second peak date of World Migratory Bird Day, on Saturday, 11th of October. This year’s theme, “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities,” has inspired global action with energy and purpose. Together, we are raising awareness on the threats birds face and driving change to create a world where both birds and people can thrive together. Conservationists, educators, and citizens around the globe have answered the call to create bird-friendly cities and communities in celebration of World Migratory Bird Day. From community cleanups and educational workshops to policy advocacy and art contests, their efforts show a shared commitment to protecting migratory birds and their habitats. |
| Why “Shared Spaces” Matter More Than Ever |
| Migratory birds face major challenges in and around the urban landscape. Urban growth destroys habitats, light pollution disorients flocks, and window collisions kill millions of birds every year. The World Migratory Bird Day 2025 campaign proposes practical ways for governments, businesses, and individuals to create bird-friendly cities and communities. Actions being encouraged through this year’s campaign include: – Plan bird-friendly cities: protect habitats in urban development. – Plant native plants: provide food, shelter, and support pollinators. – Prevent collisions: use bird-safe glass or window films. – Dim the lights: reduce nighttime light during migration. – Avoid pesticides: choose organic methods to protect insects and water. – Say “No” to plastic waste: prevent ingestion and entanglement. – Keep cats away: keep cats indoors, leashed, or in enclosures. – Educate & advocate: raise awareness and support bird-friendly policies. |
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Sherry Stanek from World Migratory Bird Day.
The Whitewater Girls’ Swim Team took on Delavan-Darien on Tuesday, October 7th, and came home with a big 101.5–59.5 victory! The Whippets continue to show incredible progress and determination in the pool, with more time drops and strong swims across the board.
Meet Highlights:
- In the 200 Freestyle, Paige Kollwelter dropped 2 seconds, Grace Smith dropped 8 seconds with a 2:30.32, and Maggie Maas dropped 2 seconds with a 2:23.14.
- In the 200 IM, Atreya Wilson and Emma Maas each dropped 3 seconds, while Grace Coleman had a huge 9-second drop off her previous best!
- Jalayne Hanson continues to improve in the 50 Freestyle, while Charlotte Hajewski swam a season-best 31.65.
- In the 100 Freestyle, Grace Smith knocked off 3 more seconds for a 1:07.28, and Storm DePorter dropped 2 seconds with a 1:19.52.
- Lucy Davis swam a strong 500 Freestyle, breaking 7 minutes for the first time with a 6:58.32! Maya Davis had a huge 8-second drop, finishing with a lifetime best of 7:56.72.
- Emma Maas put on one of the most exciting races of the night in the 100 Breaststroke, going head-to-head with a Comet swimmer and out-touching her at the wall for a new best time of 1:37.46!
The Whippets continue to shine with each meet, showing hard work, confidence, and team spirit!
Next up, the team will travel to Beloit Memorial on Tuesday, October 14th. Swimming starts at 5:30 pm — we hope to see you there!
Article and Photo Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
ReynoldsSM07@uww.edu
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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