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The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Friday, June 19, 2026
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Editor’s note: The following update was made by the City Parks & Recreation Department.
CANCELED! Due to the wet soggy conditions, we will reschedule the movie for next Saturday. 
Movie Night Update
Unfortunately, due to the wet and soggy conditions, tonight’s showing of Mufasa at Cravath Lakefront Park has been canceled.
But don’t worry—we’re not letting the fun slip away! 
The movie has been rescheduled for next Saturday at dusk.
Thank you for understanding, and we look forward to seeing everyone next weekend for a (hopefully dry!) night under the stars. 
Tonight is the night!!
Join us for Mufasa: The Lion King at the Cravath Lakefront Park, Saturday, August 16. Movie will start at dusk, 8:30 PM.
We will have concessions available for purchase. Bring a blanket or chair.
Mufasa: The Lion King, released in December 2024, is a photorealistically animated musical drama produced by Walt Disney Pictures and directed by Barry Jenkins.
- It’s a prequel and sequel to the 2019 remake of The Lion King.
- The story is told by Rafiki to Simba and Nala’s cub, exploring Mufasa’s origin, his bond with Scar (then known as Taka), and how he rose to become king.
- It features a star-studded cast including Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, Seth Rogen, and Blue Ivy Carter in her film debut.
City Manager John S. Weidl earned the nationally recognized designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), denoting a mastery of skills in economic development and a dedication to personal and professional growth. This milestone marks a significant achievement and underscores John’s commitment to excellence in the field of economic development.
“Becoming a Certified Economic Developer isn’t just a credential, it’s a career-defining
milestone that demonstrates a professional’s dedication to elevating their expertise and their
community impact,” said IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle. “Certified Economic Developers
possess deep technical knowledge and bring trust and credibility to stakeholders, investors, and
peers. We are thrilled to celebrate John on achieving this accomplishment and joining our
network of professionals driving economic progress around the world.”
The CEcD designation is a prestigious acknowledgement of skilled and committed professionals
in the field of economic development, establishing a benchmark of excellence within the
industry. To attain this designation, candidates must successfully complete a rigorous and
comprehensive examination, consisting of three parts and spanning two days. This examination
assesses a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency, judgement, and critical thinking abilities in the
following areas of economic development:
- Business retention and expansion
- Finance & credit analysis
- Marketing and attraction
- Strategic planning
- Entrepreneurial & small business development
- Managing economic development organizations
- Neighborhood development strategies
- Real estate development & reuse
- Technology-led economic development
- Workforce development strategies
- Foreign direct investment & exporting
“Earning the CEcD designation affirms my commitment to pairing technical expertise with an
inclusive approach to economic growth. This is more than a professional milestone; it’s a pledge
to apply nationally recognized best practices and data-driven strategies to every decision,
ensuring our focus stays on what strengthens the community as a whole, not on narrow or
short-term interests. I’m grateful for the support of the City Council, staff, and community
partners who share in this commitment to building a stronger economic future for Whitewater
and the region,” said City Manager John S. Weidl.
Certified Economic Developers operate as highly skilled economic development professionals
and collaborate with public officials, business leaders, and community members to establish
astute leadership and serve as a driving force in the economic development landscape. Their
commitment to excellence translates into a profound impact on well-being, elevating the
quality of life and unlocking a myriad of opportunities for individuals, businesses, and
communities alike.
Weidl is now one of over 1,250 active CEcDs worldwide.
Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the City of Whitewater.
Celebrating 25 Years of Dorothy Carnes County Park and Rose Lake State Natural Area: A Legacy of Generosity, Partnership, and Community
The Friends of Rose Lake and the Jefferson County Parks Department invite the public, park supporters, and Friends Group members to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 25th anniversary of Dorothy Carnes County Park and Rose Lake State Natural Area—a space that has become a cornerstone of outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship, and community connection in Jefferson County.
The celebration will be hosted by the Jefferson County Parks Department and the Friends of Rose Lake on Tuesday, August 19 at 6:00 PM at the Dorothy Carnes Park Pavilion off Radloff Lane. Attendees are invited to enjoy light refreshments, share memories, and recognize the individuals and partnerships that have made the park what it is today. Guests are welcome to bring stories, photos, or simply their appreciation for this beloved local treasure.
This milestone event honors not only 25 years of natural beauty and public access, but also the vision and generosity of Carol Liddle, whose donations were instrumental in the original land acquisitions and subsequent improvements to the park—including the very shelter where the celebration will be held. Carol’s early contribution was not only a catalyst for preserving this land but also served as the inspiration for naming the park in honor of her mother, Dorothy Carnes. Dorothy’s deep love of the outdoors and “all things wild and free” instilled in Carol a lifelong commitment to conservation and public access to natural spaces.
The development and expansion of Dorothy Carnes County Park would not have been possible without key funding partnerships. Through the Wisconsin DNR’s Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program and Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) funding from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Jefferson County has been able to make multiple strategic land acquisitions and improvements over the years—turning a bold vision into a thriving public space.
“This park is a reflection of what can happen when generosity, partnership, and community commitment come together,” said Tom Belzer of the Friends of Rose Lake. “We are incredibly proud to celebrate the past 25 years and look forward to the next chapter.”
From its first trail to today’s wide-ranging recreation, conservation, and community programming, Dorothy Carnes County Park and Rose Lake State Natural Area have become more than just a park—they are a testament to public participation, shared stewardship, and the power of local action.
Event Details:
�� Date: Tuesday, August 19, 2025
�� Time: 6:00 PM
�� Location: Dorothy Carnes Park Pavilion, 6915 Hoard Road [just east of Fort Atkinson on Hwy 12], Jefferson County, WI
Join us to honor the people and partnerships that built this park—and the community that continues to make it thrive.
Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by Jefferson County Parks Department.
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Jenni Jacobs, who indicated that the event this weekend is being put on by some WHS alumni students. She confirmed that it is for age 21+.
By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
Residents are encouraged to help extend a Whitewater welcome to a U17 [under age 17] German baseball team by attending one or more of the three games that will be played on Prucha Field at James B. Miller Stadium. On Thursday, August 14 the team will play GRB Academy of Windsor, on Tuesday, August 19 the opponents will be Halos of the Milwaukee area, and GRB Academy will have a return engagement on Thursday, August 21. All games start at 6 p.m. and admission is free.
UW-W Head Baseball Coach John Vodenlich indicated that Georg Apfelbaum and the Cardinals U17 baseball team from Cologne, Germany are being hosted on campus for a 10-day stay in the U.S. Apfelbaum is the first chair of the board of directors of the team, having previously served as its coach.
During their stay the guests took in a Brewers vs. Pirates game; they are also taking tours of Milwaukee and Madison. In the middle of their visit they will travel to St. Louis, where they will attend a Cardinals vs. Yankees game and also play a U17 game.
Mulberry Carnival: All proceeds go to Alzheimer’s Association
Saturday, August 23 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
All Welcome
Mulberry Carnival
Ron Binning writes, “Zinnias by our mailing box. Only place we have sun.”
“This of course is a Monarch.”
Our thanks to Ron Binning for sharing his beautiful flowers with us.
— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share. Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!
Starting Monday, August 18, library patrons must use the new, main entrance on the south side of the library’s building (off Church St.) to pick up materials.
The process remains the same — once your hold is showing as available in your account, contact the library to make a pickup appointment.
Please note that the parking lot will remain closed — there is street parking only. The outdoor book drop is located near the library’s front doors.
Please contact us with any questions or to make a pickup appointment!
262-473-0530
Editor’s note: This Banner article provides detailed information on how to set up a hold and pickup. The pickup location in that article is accurate only through Saturday, August 16.
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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