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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
The University/Community Free Lunches that have been provided at First United Methodist Church have ended with the conclusion of the university year. The church is, however, happy to offer free pre-packaged frozen meals available for pickup for anyone in need. All are welcome to come by at 145 S. Prairie St. between 10 a.m. to noon every Tuesday beginning May 19.
A Wednesday of wondrous music on March 4
Whitewater Warblers performing at Fairhaven Senior Services
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Whitewater Unified School District Orchestra Recital at Lincoln Elementary School
JOA Choir from South Korea performing at First United Methodist Church in Whitewater
Photos by Tom Ganser
Primed by immersive experiences, UW-Whitewater art student, alums earn international recognition
Written by Abigail Dotzler | Photos by Craig Schreiner
Hands-on learning at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater translated into real-world recognition alongside world-class artists for students and alums working with metals and jewelry.
The artwork of four Warhawks was on display at the 32nd Korea Jewelry Design Association Member Exhibition, which took place in Seoul, South Korea, in September 2025.
Artists from South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and the United States assembled to showcase their artwork, including jewelry, textiles, sculptures, and other forms of three-dimensional art.
Liina Heikkinen, an art major from Madison, was approached by her mentor, Teresa Faris, professor of art and design, about exhibiting in Seoul. The two met over the summer to choose which piece of Heikkinen’s work would be displayed with Faris’s art at the exhibition. They selected a brooch titled “Brain Waves,” which was designed to represent anxiety.
Two pieces created by UW-Whitewater alums joined “Brain Waves” at the exhibition. JJ Thomson, who earned a BFA in art in 2016 and now works as an artist and print technician in Minneapolis, sent “Placed here for a reason,” a commentary on the experience of students placed in special education.
Minneapolis-based artist, Ger Xiong, who earned his BFA in 2017, sent a piece titled “Re/silience,” using art to explore his Hmong-American culture and family history.
Immersive experiences lead to great outcomes
Faculty who teach classes in metals and jewelry encourage students to find their unique style and develop distinct themes in their work.
“In the metals program, we dig deep to find each person’s authentic voice,” Faris said. “Once people are able to reveal their authentic self, their unique visual vocabulary automatically follows. It’s actually very easy — people just need to feel safe enough to do it.”
Beyond artistic voice, the program builds discipline in its students, a necessary disposition for a dedicated artist. Students are encouraged to create new art and innovate outside of the classroom, and the mentorship students receive in the classroom sets them up for success.
“I don’t think I would be where I am right now if I didn’t go to UW-Whitewater,” Xiong said. “The professors that I met there were very caring. It was very intimate — the classes were a good size where students were able to connect and have mentors, especially within the department of art.”
Xiong began his undergraduate career at UW-Whitewater majoring in art education. After his first metals class, he fell in love with metalsmithing and jewelry design. Faris encouraged him to change his major from education to fine arts, focusing on metals and jewelry.
Similarly, Thomson took a jewelry class as an elective while jumping from major to major within the Department of Art, and — like Xiong — switched his major under Faris’s encouragement.
“I didn’t know that jewelry actually existed in this form or this format at all,” Thomson said, “I was really inspired, and my professor, Teresa Faris, was such an amazing instructor about conceptual jewelry and the art work, and (she) wanted her students to succeed.”
Faris integrates professional practices into the metals classes to develop skills the students need for success in the artistic world — networking with other artists, developing artist bios, applying to exhibitions, writing resumes and grant proposals, and photographing and selling artwork. Students also maintain the studio, work as lab technicians, and host visiting artists.
“They don’t feel like they have to start at the beginning (when they graduate),” Faris said.
Graduate school is also a viable option for students who work in metals and jewelry. Xiong and Thomson earned their MFAs at New Mexico State University and the University of North Texas, respectively.
“Teresa Faris prepares you conceptually about your work and really prepares you for the artist world outside of Whitewater,” Thomson said. “When I went to grad school, I already understood my work, what I wanted to make, and what I was talking about.”
Turning passions into professions
While she completes her bachelor’s degree, Heikkinen is gaining real-world experience through exhibitions and as president of the metalsmithing student organization and small business on campus, Alloy.
“We do run sales as a way to kind of step into the world of jewelry, sell our work, make some money for ourselves, and (promote our art),” Heikkinen said.“It’s really fun to work closely alongside people and let your work be known and sold.”
No matter the next step in their careers, art students at UW-Whitewater take advantage of immersive experiences — both on campus and in other countries — to turn their immense talents and passions into professions.
On a beautiful day in Whitewater, more than 1,800 students were honored for graduating during the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s 2026 spring commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 16, at Kachel Fieldhouse inside the Williams Center.
Graduates, their friends, and families took advantage of sunny skies and temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s to add to a festive, jovial atmosphere on the Whitewater campus.
Chancellor Corey A. King presided over morning and afternoon ceremonies. Graduates from the College of Arts and Communication and the College of Business and Economics were recognized in the morning, followed by graduates from the College of Education and Professional Studies, College of Integrated Studies, and the College of Letters and Sciences in the afternoon. Graduates from the School of Graduate Studies were honored at both ceremonies.
Morning ceremony
Joe Balistreri, a native of Lake Mills who earned a BBA in management, addressed his fellow graduates at the morning ceremony. A Wisconsin Air National Guard member, Balistreri served at the university as a resident assistant and member of the Whitewater Student Government, and was active in the faith-based EVOLVE Whitewater ministry organization.
“The military taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to stay calm when there is chaos around you, but it was here at Whitewater where I discovered something that I didn’t in the military — and that something was how to sit with someone in their struggle and simply be present,” he said. “How to listen, not to fix, but to understand.”
Balistreri, who will pursue an MBA at UW-Whitewater starting this fall, encouraged graduates to be a bridge to others in need and to be the person the university helped them become as they venture into the real world.
“When you leave this field house, carry all of it with you,” he said. “The wins and the losses. Carry it all. Because it made you who you are.”
Commencement speaker Peter Glerum earned a BBA in management computer systems from UW-Whitewater in 1990. He most recently served as Chief Investment Strategist and Partner at Castlelake and is treasurer on the UW-Whitewater Foundation Board.
Glerum reflected on his career in finance — which spans more than three decades — and said his UW-Whitewater education both inside and outside of the classroom allowed him to build his business acumen and communication skills.
“Whitewater is a small town … you spend time talking, relating, interacting, connecting, and developing your character,” Glerum said. “Your non-classroom education in connecting with those around you is priceless. This place is full of real students, real faculty, real staff, real people.”
Afternoon ceremony
In the afternoon, student speakers Sabrina Wolf and Cade Stowe addressed attendees.
Wolf, who graduated with a B.S. in environmental science with an emphasis in geosciences and a minor in general business, was involved on campus as a resident assistant, as a member of the Chancellor’s Student Advisory Council, and in undergraduate research.
She told the story of getting involved in severe weather forecasting and verification, or “storm chasing,” through undergraduate research, and drew comparisons between that and life as an undergraduate student.
“Our education, experiences, interpersonal skills, networks, the friendships that started by saying ‘hi’ in class, and all of our small daily choices as simple as a kind word or a smile,” Wolf said. “It’s these moments, accumulated over time, that put you in the right position when it matters most.”
Stowe started his journey as a student at UW-Whitewater at Rock County and finished his time at the Whitewater campus with a B.A. in psychology with a minor in sociology. He will continue his education in the counselor education master’s program at UW-Whitewater.
Stowe, who has neurodivergent conditions and has used the Center for Students with Disabilities, spoke passionately about his story and encouraged fellow graduates to embrace the way they see the world.
“When we love ourselves, it becomes much easier to see the humanity in others,” Stowe said. “As we celebrate the legacy we leave here and the people we’ve met along the way, continue becoming the most loving version of yourself.”
Afternoon commencement speaker Reggie Lawrence earned two degrees from UW-Whitewater — a B.S. in elementary education in 1990 and an M.S. in curriculum and instruction in 1992. He currently serves as superintendent of Harvey School District 152 in south suburban Chicago and is a member of the Board of Directors of the UW-Whitewater Foundation.
“At UW-Whitewater, I mattered,” Lawrence said. “From the first day I set foot on campus, I was embraced with open arms by various faculty members.”
Lawrence credited UWW faculty members and his involvement in student government, Black Student Union, and other campus organizations with preparing him for a 30-year career as an educator. He encouraged graduates to let life come to them.
“The world is messy, it’s loud, it’s divided, and at times, it’s exhausting,” Lawrence said. “You will have days when you feel like a tiny drop in a very large ocean. When those days come, I want you to remember this: an ocean is nothing but a multitude of drops. It took a while to form and wasn’t done overnight, so don’t be in a rush or hurry to have your life be perfect.”
Editor’s note: This story was provided by UW-Whitewater.
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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