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Community Invited to UW-W Veteran’s Day Ceremony on Nov. 10

November 1, 2023

Editor’s note: The following invitation was submitted by Kris McMenamin, USMC Veteran, Coordinator Military & Veteran Students Services

We would like to invite members from the community to join us for UW-Whitewater Veteran’s Day Ceremony will be held on Friday, November 10th at 11:00 a.m. at the James R. Connor University Center’s Old Main Ballroom (275).  Visitors from the community will be able to park in Lot 12 without the need for a parking pass on the day of the ceremony. Speakers will include UW-Whitewater’s Chancellor, Dr. Corey King and Wisconsin VFW Jr. Vice Commander Ty Letto. The ceremony is scheduled for approximately one hour.

If there are any questions, readers can contact UW-W Veteran services at (262) 472-5236 or send an email to mcmenamk@uww.edu

Swimmers Compete in Conference Championships

October 31, 2023

The Whippets Girls’ Swim Team competed in the Southern Lakes Conference Championship Meet on Saturday, October 28th.

Placing in the Top 16 included:

🥈 200 Freestyle: 1:59.57 (2nd) – Makayla Bazeley

⭐ 200 Freestyle: 2:25.50 (16th) – Charlotte Hajewski *Best time

⭐ 200 IM: 2:36.39 (8th) – Emerson Dunham
🥈 100 Butterfly: 1:00.11 (2nd) – Makayla Bazeley *Best time

⭐ 500 Freestyle: 6:05.75 (9th) – Emerson Dunham

⭐ 200 Freestyle Relay: 1:57.00 (11th) – Makayla Bazeley, Maggie Maas, Charlotte Hajewski, Emerson Dunham

⭐ 400 Freestyle Relay: 4:16.16 (5th) – Markayla Bazeley, Maggie Maas, Charlotte Hajewski, Emerson Dunham

⭐ 400 Freestyle Relay: 5:13.25 (15th) – Atreya Wilson, Georgia Esch, Payton Peacock, Lucy Davis

Best Times include:

🌟 Atreya Wilson dropped over 5 seconds in the 200 Freestyle going a time of 2:45.49

✨ Payton Peacock (34.57) and Adalynn Frye (33.28) both had great swims in the 50 Freestyle.

🎇 Our 100 Freestylers of Maggie Maas (1:07.12), Adalynn Frye (1:19.24) and Georgia Esch (1:20.56) all dropped a significant amount of time.

🌟 Lucy Davis continues to swim strong in the 500 Freestyle going a time of 6:57.52.

Makayla Bazeley

With an impressive meet like this, we are so excited to watch them compete at Sectionals this Saturday, November 4th in Sauk Prairie! Go, Whippets!

Article and Photos Courtesy of Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
sreynolds@wwusd.org

Public Invited to Farewell Reception for Library Director Stacey Lunsford

October 30, 2023

Please join us for a Farewell Reception for Stacey Lunsford, Library Director, on Friday, November 10th, 2023 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. in the Community Room of the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library, 431 West Center Street, Whitewater, WI 53190.

Happy Halloween! Trick or Treat Safety Tips Provided

October 30, 2023

The Rock County Sheriff’s Office recognizes that there are a lot of fun activities surrounding Halloween and encourages everyone to prioritize safety. Children and youth look forward to Trick or Treating, and we want everyone to enjoy the festivities. Below are some Halloween safety tips.

Trick or Treaters
• Do not Trick or Treat alone.
• An adult should accompany kids under 12 years old.
• Trick or Treat at lit houses. Do not approach a dark residence.
• Look both ways before crossing a road, and do not run.
• Carry flashlights or glow sticks to be more visible.
• Fasten reflective tape to candy bags and costumes.
• Take a cellphone and call 9-1-1 if you see anything suspicious.
• Do not enter any residence. Remain outside.
• Wait to eat any treats until after an adult checks them for safety.
Do not eat any treats that are not in factory-sealed packaging.

Drivers
• Drive slow and watch your surroundings. Turn your headlights on.
• Take extra time to check for kids at intersections and when entering and exiting driveways.
• Avoid using electronic devices; focus on driving.
• Do not drink and drive. If you drink, get a sober ride home.
We wish everyone a safe and fun Halloween!

Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by M. Harris from Pixabay.

First Snow of the Season on Tuesday? Prediction is a Trace to 2″

October 30, 2023

According to the National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan Weather Forecast Office, our area may experience the first snow of the season on Tuesday. Although it’s indicated that the heaviest and most widespread snowfall will occur during the morning hours, including the morning drive to work and school, the total accumulation is projected to only range from a trace to 2″.

Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by Erwin from Pixabay.

One Detour Ends: County N Has Reopened!

October 30, 2023
County N without “road closed” signs on October 30. [Lynn Binnie photo]

By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com

Rock County Public Works Director Duane M. Jorgenson notified The Banner that the pavement markings on County N were completed on the afternoon of October 30 and the road would be reopened. Sure enough, as shown in the above photo, the “road closed” signs have been removed.

Meanwhile, the state Department of Transportation website still indicates that the reconstruction of Highway 12 between Whitewater and Fort Atkinson will be completed by November 3. Is it possible that all roads leading to/from Whitewater will be open by the end of the week? At one point this summer there were detours affecting three roads.

Camden Harlan is a Hometown Hero

October 29, 2023

Editor’s Note: The following was submitted by Whitewater Unites Lives.

Camden Harlan is a WUL hometown hero and has been nominated by Kim Simes for “her leadership and work as a member of Whitewater Pride and her caring and support of all students at Whitewater High School, including the LGBTQ+ students via the Gay Straight Alliance.”

Hometown Hero Camden Harlan is pictured her with Kim Simes.

WUL (Whitewater Unites Lives) is a locally-focused civil and human rights group that works to connect the people in our community and to create opportunities for all people to learn and support each other in our common humanity.   

Anyone who would like to nominate a local hero of any age should send their nomination, with a short description, to whitewaterunites@gmail.com 

Area Youth are Invited to Join Service Trip in North Carolina

October 29, 2023

Editor’s note: The following invitation was submitted by Shannon Frye.

Participants in last year’s community service and mission trip to Alaska

Whitewater Area Regional Ministries (WARM) and First United Methodist Church (FUMC) is thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for youth in grades 7 to 12 to embark on a transformative journey of service, learning, and adventure in the heart of the Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina. We cordially invite students in the area to join us as we promote the value of community engagement, personal growth, and lifelong friendships through our Youth Community Service and Mission Trip. 

Event Details:

– Date: June 8-15

– Location: Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina

– Eligibility: Open to students in grades 7 to 12

– Deadline: November 10

Participants in last year’s trip enjoy a moment of levity

WARM hosts an annual service trip for local students by partnering with Youthworks. YouthWorks provides Christ-centered mission trips for thousands of teenagers and Adult Leaders in communities across the U.S. and beyond. Together we are committed to providing students with the tools, experiences, and opportunities to grow into responsible, compassionate, and globally-aware individuals. Our Youth Community Service Trip to North Carolina is designed to empower students, instilling in them a sense of civic responsibility, a passion for community service and an opportunity for students to keep their relationship with God. Youthworks trips are multi-denominational. 

All are welcome! 

Key Highlights of the Community Service Trip:

1. **Hands-On Service:** Participants will engage in meaningful community service projects, such as work with children and elderly, community beautification projects, serving and preparing meals at local soup kitchens, and assisting local organizations. We will partner with Youthworks to meet the needs of this rural community. Through their efforts, they will witness the direct impact they can make on the lives of others.

2. **Cultural Immersion:** North Carolina’s rich history and diverse culture provide a unique backdrop for cultural exploration. Students will have the chance to immerse themselves in local traditions, food, and customs.

3. **Personal Growth:** The trip is not just about serving others but also about self-discovery. Our expertly designed leadership and personal development activities will encourage students to grow, gain confidence, and discover their potential.

4. **Team Building:** Working side by side with their peers and local community members, students will develop crucial teamwork and communication skills that will serve them well in future endeavors.

5. **Lifelong Friendships:** Sharing this unique experience with like-minded individuals can lead to the formation of lasting friendships and an expanded network of support.

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please reach out to Shannon Frye at warmprimetime@gmail.com by November 10th for more information about cost and fundraising opportunities. We look forward to welcoming students on this unforgettable journey of service and self-discovery in North Carolina.

Obituaries

Obituary: Fred Chester Traxler, 78

Obituary: Fred Chester Traxler, 78 Fred was born in Whitewater, Wisconsin on October 23, 1945, son of Chester and Elva (Klug) Traxler. He was born to eternal life at Ascension St. Francis Place in Milwaukee on June 1, 2024. Fred was a 1964 graduate of Whitewater High School. In his younger days Fred enjoyed bowling and polka dancing–and was very good at both. He was very competitive, especially when pitching horseshoes with his Dad, brothers, and cousin Sid. He was always ready for a card game, and was also a big fan of the Packers and Brewers. Fred is preceded … Read more

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Obituary: Harry Oliver Dempsey, 80

Harry Oliver Dempsey passed away peacefully and among family in Elkhorn, WI on July 24, 2024 at the age of 80. Born on May 21, 1944 to William and Norma (Shober) Dempsey, Harry grew up on the family farm in Whitewater. In his younger years, Harry enjoyed hunting and fishing, a passion that he later passed on to his own children. All his life he could often be found in his shop, building or fixing something – from a child’s toy to lawn mowers, cars, and tractors. His passion for self-sufficiency extended to his large garden whose abundance he happily … Read more

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Obituary: Shirley A. Knuteson, 85

SHIRLEY A. KNUTESON, age 85, of Whitewater, died Thursday, June 27, 2024 at Glenwood at Mulberry Campus in Whitewater. She was born to Hugo and Helen (Wilson) Ferge of Elkhorn, WI. She attended school in Walworth High School, graduating in 1956. Shirley worked at Sterlingworth in Elkhorn and then Fairhaven Nursing Home prior to retirement.  As a young woman, she loved roller skating, had a love for animals, especially her dogs and horses on the farm. She was a loyal Brewer and Packer fan. Her diverse family was her pride and joy.  Shirley is survived by her six children Jerry … Read more

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Celebration of Life: Dave Triebold

A celebration of life for Dave Triebold will be held July 27 at Triebold Farms, with festivities beginning around 11:30 am. A rememberance service will take place at 12:30 pm. A pig roast will follow, and the pool will be open. The family encourages you to stay through the evening for a bonfire as well. Contact Kris (262)949-5474 or Kath (414)412-4385 with questions.

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Celebration of Life: James Paul Fisher, 86

James Paul Fisher, 86, known by friends as JP or Jay, passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at UW Hospital, Madison, with his immediate family by his side. His body finally surrendered to a heart attack after battling heart and kidney ailments for many years. Born in Fond du lac, Wisconsin, on October 25, 1937, to Lorraine and James Fisher, JP was a resident of Elkhorn and then Whitewater, Wisconsin. At age 2 JP was diagnosed with polio. Through daily therapy administered by his mother and grandmother, he overcame this life threatening virus, and with a prognosis of limited … Read more

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Obituary: Shirley M.  Messier, 86

Shirley M. Messier, 86, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away on July 8, 2024. Shirley was born to Erwin and Leona Reese on May 20, 1938, in Farmington, Wisconsin. Shirley (“Shirttail”) attended the local country school, then set out on her own, taking a job doing factory work. On August 24, 1957, she married Blaine Messier in Jefferson, Wisconsin. They had three daughters, Michele (Shelly), Terry, and Karen. Shirley spent many years being a working wife and mother, finally retiring from Polymer Technologies / MacLean Fogg in Whitewater. Shirley loved country music and spent her retirement years going to George Jones … Read more

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Celebration of Life: Patricia Parr

Patricia Ann ParrBorn 7/20/42Departed to Heaven 5/10/23 About herself, Patricia often said “I love life, I love God, He always has taken care of me, and He always will”. Patricia died peacefully at Angels Grace Hospice in Oconomowoc, after a long and courageously fought season of declining health. Patricia was born in Beaver Dam, to a lovely family, which included her older brother Dennis and not too long after, her lifetime best friend and little sister Mary. They grew up on an idyllic “Gentlemen’s Farm” outside of Jefferson, with horses and many animals. Her parents, Floyd and Kathryn owned the … Read more

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Obituary: Margorie Alice “GG” Roloff, 89

Marjorie Alice “GG” Roloff, 89, passed away Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Golden Years in Lake Geneva, WI. She was born July 31, 1934, to Fred and Martha (Arndt) Papcke, in Whitewater, WI, the fifth of eleven children. GG attended South Heart Prairie School, across the road from the family’s home farm. She is a Whitewater High School graduate. On April 19, 1953, she married her high school sweetheart, Eric. She worked a variety of jobs over the years. Her most memorable of those being the local canning factory and as a crossing guard. After retiring, she and Eric would … Read more

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Obituary: Marilyn Mae Fuerstenberg, 81 (UPDATED)

Marilyn Mae Fuerstenberg, 81 of Whitewater, WI., passed away on June 27, 2024, at Agrace Hospice in Janesville, WI. Marilyn was born May 27, 1943, in Geneva Township, to Raymond and Doris Kilpin. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, her two younger brothers, Mike and Donny Kilpin. Marilyn married William (Bill) Fuerstenberg on September 21, 1963. Bill and Marilyn lived in Whitewater. Together they raised three children, taking the family on yearly vacations and camping trips throughout the years. Marilyn worked for Walworth County Health and Social Services as a Child Protection Social Worker. She dedicated 25 years … Read more

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Obituary: Jerome Francis Burke, 76

Jerome Francis Burke, age 76, of Whitewater, WI, passed away unexpectedly following a brief illness on June 27, 2024. Jerry was born in Evanston, IL on May 13, 1948 to Stephen and Catherine Burke. He grew up in Glenview, IL, where he graduated from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Grade School and then Loyola Academy (Wilmette). Those early days spawned treasured, lifelong friendships. He went on to graduate from St. Joseph’s College (IN) with a BA in Economics, and it was there thathe met his beloved wife, Eileen. They married shortly after graduation and were blessed to share their lives … Read more

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