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The Whitewater Whippets turned in a strong all-around showing at the Dana Waddell Invitational, hosted by Marshall on a very warm day at McCarthy Park on Tuesday, September 16. This year’s course change introduced more challenging hills, and when paired with the heat in the mid-80’s and no wind, it created a race atmosphere the athletes will remember for years to come.
Boys’ Varsity
Freshman Tyler Carollo continues to establish himself as one of the conference’s rising stars, racing to 8th place in a lifetime-best 18:50.5 to earn a medal. Junior Wyatt Esch followed with a career breakthrough, dipping under the 20-minute barrier for the first time to place 19th in 19:54.6 and claim one of the final medals of the day.
Seniors Quinton O’Toole (30th, 20:59.5) and Isaiah Mendez (37th, 21:56.7), along with junior Marcus Roselle (34th, 21:16.2), rounded out the scoring five for Whitewater. Together, they lifted the Whippets to 5th place with 128 points in the nine-team field.
Boys’ JV
In the JV race, freshman Jameson Rothwell led the Whippets with a 28:50.9 finish for 14th overall. Sophomore Ian Agen delivered a milestone effort of his own, setting a personal record of 29:49.1 to finish 16th and break the 30-minute mark for the first time in his career.
Girls’ Varsity
The Whitewater Girls’ Varsity placed 8th as a team with 164 points, led by sophomore Virginia Nelson, who cracked the top 10 with a 22:37.2 performance for 10th place. Senior Delaney Hammack added a season highlight, running a personal-best 23:27.6 for 19th.
Freshman Madelyn Taylor (42nd, 28:01.5), senior Payton Brautigam (53rd, 29:43.5), and senior Kelly Mayorga (57th, 33:57.2, PR) rounded out the Whippet scoring. Mayorga’s race was also her first-ever cross country competition, marking a milestone for the program.
Head Coach Chad Carstens praised his team’s resilience and race strategy:
“Given the conditions, we had a team strategy to run the first half of the race and race the back half. It seemed to pay off as many athletes from other teams clearly had not respected the terrain and temperatures of the day and paid for it. Whitewater was able to move through the field nicely and have some really nice finishes. Tyler breaking 19 again, Wyatt dipping under 20, and Delaney setting a PR were all huge moments. In addition to those athletes, Kelly Mayorga competed in her first ever race, and Ian Agen broke 30. Lots of good things are happening in Whippet CC!”
Full results: https://www.athletic.net/CrossCountry/meet/263167/info
Article and Photo Submitted by Chad Carstens
Whitewater High School Head Cross Country Coach
ccarstens@wwusd.org
NEW CLASS!
Beginning October 20th
The Healing Project: understanding life with cognitive change
A class for people with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage dementia diagnoses
Limited Space Available
The Dementia Program of The Aging & Disability Resource Center of Rock County is pleased to announce a new psychoeducational class for people with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage dementia diagnoses. The Healing Project: understanding life with cognitive change will be offered virtually on 8 consecutive Mondays beginning October 20th from 10:30am-Noon. The class will offer education, support and resources on a variety of topics focusing on issues related to a dementia diagnosis including acceptance, understanding, coping skills, grief and loss and effective communication with loved ones. Each week participants will also learn and practice a new relaxation skill to assist with coping. Class time includes opportunities for sharing with other participants.
For more information about The Healing Project, to register for the class or to discuss any concerns related to dementia, please contact the Rock County Dementia Care Specialist, Karen Tennyson at 608/921-7165 or karen.tennyson@co.rock.wi.us
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Enactus team will celebrate its 2025 national championship and hold a send-off for the team this Thursday, Sept. 18, as it prepares to travel as the representative of the United States at the Enactus World Cup in Thailand.
The team will depart from Perkins Stadium (Lot 24) on a firetruck parade through Whitewater at 5 p.m. The parade route begins south on Warhawk Drive and continues west on Starin Road and south on Prince St., and concludes at the Center of the Arts. A reception will take place starting at 5:45 p.m. in the University Center Hamilton Room on campus.
Thursday’s event is free and open to the public. Donations to support the team’s travel are welcome here.
The Warhawks, winners of the Enactus USA national title after a year of work to support small businesses, will compete against more than 30 countries from around the world starting September 25 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Two initiatives helped UW-Whitewater’s Enactus chapter — a social entrepreneurship organization that works to revitalize local economies — claim its position as Team USA at the World Cup.
During the 2024-25 year, UW-Whitewater students and faculty helped lead RenewTowns, a project to drive sustainable economic growth and revitalization in communities. They worked with organizations and business leaders in Fort Atkinson, Cambridge, and Wauwatosa to build business pitch competitions that offer incentives to small businesses who set up in the downtown areas of those communities.
Members of the Enactus team also worked with women in Guatemala on ProChapina, a nonprofit organization that supports women through professional training programs and other services. Four students and a faculty advisor traveled to Antigua, Guatemala, in the summer of 2024 to meet with ProChapina leadership to discuss ongoing efforts in marketing and business operations.
As part of the reception, the Enactus team will preview its World Cup presentation. Click here for more details on Thursday’s event.
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater at Rock County is partnering with Mercyhealth to expand access to healthcare education and serve a key need in Wisconsin and stateline communities for nurses, technicians, and other healthcare professionals.
The newly named Mercyhealth Medical Sciences Hub includes the Rock County campus’s state-of-the-art nursing simulation center and skills labs supporting learning in maternity education, pediatrics, and geriatrics. The space, which opened in 2024, is a result of a collaboration between the Rock County campus and Edgewood University, which provided the technology — including the mannequins used in the simulation labs. Mercyhealth’s half a million dollar gift ensures the upkeep and regular enhancement of the spaces.
“UW-Whitewater is committed to addressing the needs of the region,” said Chancellor Corey King. “Together, with Mercyhealth, we’re making an investment in today and the future — ensuring our healthcare workforce is well-educated, robust and adaptable. The Mercyhealth Medical Sciences Hub on the Rock County campus offers hands-on engagement and learning opportunities. It provides our students with valuable real-world experiences desired by employers.”
“Mercyhealth is proud to grow our partnership with UW-Whitewater at Rock County and Edgewood University. Creating opportunities for nursing students within our community is about more than education — it’s about building the future of healthcare. We’re excited to train and empower the nurses who will care for generations to come,” said Kara Sankey, vice president of operations at Mercyhealth.
The latest agreement expands the healthcare education partnership between UW-Whitewater at Rock County and Mercyhealth, which includes facilities investments and academic collaborations.
The university recently announced a Bachelor of Science in medical sciences degree with emphases in radiology and sonography. Students in the program will spend their final two years working with Mercyhealth for hands-on learning in their field.
URock is also part of a collaborative nursing program with Edgewood University. Students take two years of classes on the Rock County campus and are able to finish out their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree on site without having to leave the area.
“The opportunities afforded to students through the Mercyhealth Medical Sciences Hub help keep our workforce talent local, which is so important to the health of our community,” said Tricia Clasen, assistant vice chancellor of the UW-Whitewater at Rock County and dean of the College of Integrated Studies. “Our students already have such a positive impact in Janesville and throughout Rock County, and this partnership with Mercyhealth ensures the long-term investment into this program and into the education of future healthcare professionals.”
Per the agreement, Mercyhealth will continue to be embedded into URock’s medical sciences programs, including in workforce development, microcredential opportunities, and other future collaborations.
Mercyhealth’s gift will also be recognized as a lead gift of UW-Whitewater’s Our Stories. Our Future. campaign, which formally launched over the summer. The university is more than halfway to its goal of raising $50 million for the current and future welfare of the university.
A recipient of the Universities of Wisconsin Regents Business Partnership Award in 2023, Mercyhealth has been a collaborative partner of UW-Whitewater for more than 20 years. It is the exclusive healthcare provider for Warhawk Athletics, a perennial national contender that consistently ranks among the top 20 NCAA Division III athletic programs.
Mercyhealth will be celebrated as a university partner October 17 as part of the UW-Whitewater football game against UW-Stout at Perkins Stadium.
Whitewater, WI – Nate Parrish, President of First Citizens State Bank, is pleased to announce that David Barnett has joined the Bank as Vice President – Commercial & Mortgage Loan Officer at the Whitewater Main Office, located at 207 W Main Street, Whitewater, Wisconsin.
David has over 37 years of experience in banking, beginning with an entry level role and building up to Commercial Lending. He is a graduate of the Southeastern Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of Arts as well as the University of Colorado with a Graduate Banking Degree. David has called Southeast Wisconsin his home for more than 17 years.
In making the announcement, Nate Parrish said, “We are thrilled to welcome David to our lending team. With his extensive background in both community and larger banking institutions, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. His expertise and commitment to customer service make him a strong addition to our bank and the communities we serve.”
David enjoys spending time outdoors, golfing, hiking, biking and fly fishing. He is the past President of the Lake Geneva West Chamber of Commerce and is a housing commissioner with the Walworth County Housing Authority.
David commented, “I’m proud to be part of a community-minded bank valuing personalized service. From the main office to the surrounding South-Eastern Wisconsin communities, I’m eager to put my experience to work providing lending solutions that truly make a difference for families and businesses.”
First Citizens State Bank, locally owned and operated since 1863, is committed to serving the communities in which we live, work, and do business. We are proud of the partnerships we have established with organizations, businesses and individuals in Southeastern Wisconsin. First Citizens State Bank has Full-service offices in Whitewater, East Troy and Palmyra. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
Rock River Community Clinic (RRCC) is thrilled to announce a new fundraising event, serving as its primary operational fundraiser.
The 1st Annual Celebration of Hope will take place on Wednesday, October 15th from 4:30-6:30pm at the Country Inn & Suites in Fort Atkinson (1650 Doris Drive). The two-hour cocktail event will feature networking, education, a raffle, and a short program at 5:45pm. The program will highlight RRCC’s high-quality and affordable patient care, share patient stories, and focus on the critical impact RRCC has on the overall health and wellbeing of our communities.
“We are so excited to launch this new event in support of our mission to provide quality, comprehensive health care to all,” states Dr. Olivia Nichols, RRCC CEO/Executive Director. “We hope members across our communities will join us for a beautiful night of inspiring optimism, honoring progress, and providing hope for a healthy future.”
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased until 11:59pm on Tuesday, October 14th. Individual tickets are $100 and include heavy appetizers and one beverage. Full table purchases (10 tickets) are also available for $850 and include appetizers and the one beverage for each individual at the table. Tickets can be purchased through RRCC’s website at: https://secure.givelively.org/event/rock-river-community-clinic-inc/2025-rrcc-celebration-of-hope
“We are hopeful to maximize the event space and have up to 150 community members join us for this celebration and to support the health care services for all those who depend on us, “ Dr. Nichols adds. “We are deeply grateful for the support already shown for the event, and look forward to engaging more individuals, organizations and businesses in our efforts.”
The event is being supported through generous sponsorships for local businesses, and additional sponsors are still being sought. FCCU is serving as the Platinum Sponsor ($5,000) and Maas Brothers, Fort Healthcare, Crave Brothers Farmstead and Greater Watertown Community Health Foundation are committed as Gold Sponsors ($2,500). Silver Sponsors ($1,000) are Rainbow Community Care, First Citizens State Bank, and Watertown Family Practice, and Katzman Family Farm, Richter Heating & Air Conditioning, Paddy Shack, Paddy Coughlin’s Pub, Cloute, Inc., Yes! Watertown, and Rock River Dental have confirmed Bronze Sponsorships ($500).
“We’d like to extend our sincere appreciation to FCCU for serving as our platinum sponsor for the Celebration of Hope,” states Nichols. “That level of generosity will help us achieve our fundraising goals with the event, along with the committed support of 14 other sponsors. We are still actively looking for additional sponsorship support before our deadline of September 26th.”
Additional details about the event, including the full sponsorship form and raffle donation form, please visit or email marketing@rockrivercommunityclinic.org.
Rock River Community Clinic (RRCC) is a community health center that provides comprehensive and cost-effective health care services to ensure all community members have access to the care they need. Serving families in Jefferson, Dodge, and Walworth County, RRCC includes medical clinics located in Whitewater and Watertown, and one dental clinic located in Fort Atkinson.
At RRCC, all community members are welcome and accepted, regardless of ability to pay, with discounted prices for patients who are uninsured or underinsured (high deductible plans). RRCC also provides care coordination services to help patients overcome barriers to accessing healthcare (e.g., transportation), and helps to coordinate referrals. Bilingual staff (Spanish & English) are available to support patients and their families. By increasing access to health care services, offering care at affordable costs, and assisting with healthcare navigation, RRCC works to create a healthier, more equitable, community. For clinic hours and directions, visit www.rockrivercommunityclinic.org
The Whippet volleyball program is making great strides this season with three teams: JV2, JV1, and Varsity. Every player at each level is working hard and improving with every practice and game.
The Varsity team, in particular, has been dedicated to learning the game, as many of the players are new to this higher level of competition. They’ve committed to each other, working every day to get better. This season, they’ve had some great battles against strong teams like Stoughton, Johnson Creek, Vader., and St. Joseph’s Kenosha.
Our first conference match was on the road in Monroe. While the team’s performance wasn’t what we know they’re capable of, they showed impressive resilience by regrouping and playing tough against some very solid teams at the recent Dodgeland Invite.
Stat leaders for the season so far include:
● Blocks: Sydney Schilt- 2
● Kills: Sydney Schilt-24 (1.6 per set)
● Digs: Jasmine Kilar- 80 (5.3 per set)
● Assists: Mya Graves-Koran- 72
● Aces: Jasmine Kilar- 5
Catch us in action this Thursday at home against East Troy! We’d love to see you there to support our team!
Article and Photos Submitted by Mary Kilar
Great opportunity to get out on the beautiful and scenic Ice Age Trail located right here in our backyard! And it’s FREE! Learn more at: https://www.iceagetrail.org/mammoth-hike-challenge/
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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