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Today is Thursday, June 18, 2026
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Jefferson County is proud to announce a free service for groups based in the County or serving County residents: Civic, school, non-profit, environmental, community, or other organizations can now reserve a speaker to present on a variety of topics of interest to area residents.
Sixteen of Jefferson County’s departments have made presentations in their areas of expertise available to the public, totaling more than 80 diverse topics. The Health Department, Human Services, and Sheriff’s Office offer nearly 50 presentations on public health, safety, awareness, and education. Those interested in Jefferson County’s natural and agricultural resources can choose from 15 presentations by experts in Land and Water Conservation, Parks, Jefferson County Fair, and UW Extension. All presentation topics are available on the Jefferson County website at the address included below.
“Our employees are dedicated to excellence in their chosen fields, and they appreciate opportunities to educate and inform their neighbors on topics that matter to County residents,” said Michael Luckey, Jefferson County Administrator. “I encourage everyone to review our presentations list and let us know if your group would like to learn more about a specific topic.”
If you need a speaker for a topic that is not listed or would like a customized presentation, please reach out to the applicable contact. Our experts will work with you to fulfill your request whenever possible.
To view the complete list of presentation topics and access contacts for scheduling a presentation:
https://www.jeffersoncountywi.gov/speakers_presentations_for_county_topics.php
For more about Jefferson County:
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Jefferson County. The city of Whitewater is split between Jefferson and Walworth counties.
Check out the great schedule of events for Saturday’s STEAM Faire at Whitewater High School! New this year, the Faire will have a live science demonstration stage at 10:30, 11:30, and 12:30. Also, the FFA will have their plant sale open with an opportunity to meet the small animals in the ag department.
The Faire will be open from 10:00 am until 2:30 pm.
Admission is $3 or free if you bring a donation for Lakeland Animal Shelter.
Carter Waelchli, a Communication – BA major from Whitewater, at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, is one of 16 Warhawks to claim a Wisconsin Community Media Best of the Midwest award for their work on UWW-TV during the 2025-26 academic year in Onalaska, WI, from April 30 – May 1, 2026.
Waelchli earned the following award for their work: 3rd place, Creative Student Media.
Award winners were recognized at the Midwest Media Fest Conference and Banquet on Thursday, April 30. Attendees had the opportunity to network and celebrate during the exhibitors’ reception and banquet.
The 2026 Midwest Media Fest Conference and Banquet celebrates local Public, Education, and Government (PEG) Access programming and Low-Power Community Radio programming. The event recognizes local programming produced by both professionals and amateurs and provides producers with feedback on their work from a slate of four judges.
The nine-state Alliance for Community Media Midwest Region includes Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
UWW-TV provides students with hands-on experience in producing high-quality content both behind the scenes and on camera.
To learn more about UWW-TV, visit uwwtv.org.
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater.
Brahms Birthday Celebration
Celebrate the birthday of Johannes Brahms with a special concert on May 7 featuring violinist Leanne Kelso and friends performing his lush and expressive Sextet No. 2 in G major. This beloved chamber work, full of warmth and lyrical beauty, is the perfect tribute to one of the great Romantic composers. Join us for an evening of exquisite music in honor of Brahms’ legacy.
Thursday, May 07, 2026 @ 7:30 PM
Light Recital Hall
950 W Main St, Whitewater, WI 53190
Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18
Tickets may be purchased online, at the ticket office – 950 W. Main St. – Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., or at the door.
See parking information below.
Whitewater Symphony Orchestra
The Young Performing Arts Center
930 W Main St, Whitewater, WI 53190
Friday, May 8, 2026 @ 7:30 p.m.
Immerse yourself in the powerful sound of the Whitewater Symphony Orchestra, UW-Whitewater’s premier orchestral ensemble. Featuring talented student musicians, the orchestra presents compelling performances of classical masterworks. Join us for an evening of artistry, passion, and musical excellence that will inspire audiences of all ages.
Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18
Tickets may be purchased online, at the ticket office – 950 W. Main St. – Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., or at the door.
There is no charge for parking on the weekend.
Parking information
Parking: A permit is required to park in University lots and on Prince Street north of Main Street during events that take place Monday – Thursday. The closest lots are Lots 1 and 2. Permits may be purchased at the kiosk at the Visitors’ Center on Starin Road. To purchase a permit online, visit uww.aimsparking.com and follow these steps:
1. Select: Purchase UW-W Special Event Permits
2. Agree to Terms of Service
3. Select Event Type: CENTER OF THE ARTS
4. Select the event you are attending
5. Select Permit Type: EVENT GUEST
6. Dates will automatically fill in
7. Click Add Vehicle
8. Enter license plate, make, model and color vehicle; Click ADD
9. Follow the remaining prompts to complete registration process
NOTE: Your license plate is your permit; be sure to enter plate correctly to avoid tickets. Plates not entered correctly are subject to $5 tickets. Do not park in stalls with any type of sign. If you need to change your plate, call 262-472-1011 during business hours Mon-Fri 7:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Albert’s Dog Lounge Rescue has announced that it will be welcoming 30 beagles from Ridglan Farms as part of a large-scale release involving approximately 1,500 dogs across Wisconsin rescue organizations.
The transfer marks the beginning of a new chapter for the dogs, many of whom will require extensive medical care and behavioral rehabilitation as they transition out of a commercial breeding environment and into foster-based rescue programs.
Albert’s Dog Lounge confirmed that preparations for intake have been underway for weeks. The organization has secured a network of experienced fosters specifically equipped to handle the unique and often complex needs of dogs coming from situations like this.
“We have been actively preparing for this moment,” said Mandy Lewis, Founder and President of Albert’s Dog Lounge. “Our focus is, and always will be, on quality of care over quantity. These dogs deserve the time, resources, and support it takes to truly recover—not just physically, but emotionally.”
The organization emphasized that it is not currently accepting foster or adoption applications for the Ridglan beagles. Each dog will undergo a comprehensive intake process that includes veterinary evaluation, diagnostics, spay/neuter procedures, and a period of decompression and rehabilitation. This process is expected to take weeks, if not months.
Community members interested in adopting are encouraged instead to consider dogs currently available through Albert’s Dog Lounge, helping to create space and resources for incoming animals.
Caring for the 30 beagles is expected to cost an estimated $30,000, or approximately $1,000 per dog. Expenses include medical treatment, high-quality nutrition, supplements, bedding, and specialized safety equipment. Due to their backgrounds, the dogs are considered high flight risks and will require enhanced containment and monitoring protocols.
Albert’s Dog Lounge is asking for community support through monetary donations, supply contributions via its public wish list, and social media sharing to help offset the significant costs associated with this effort.
The dogs are expected to arrive on or around Thursday, May 7, 2026. Updates will be shared on their social media once they have safely arrived and begun the transition process.
Albert’s Dog Lounge also asks the public to remain respectful in discussions surrounding this situation.
“Our role is to help the dogs in front of us,” Lewis added. “We ask that the focus remain on supporting their recovery and giving them the future they deserve.”
How to Support the Ridglan Beagles:
Donations can be made directly through Albert’s Dog Lounge Rescue’s website and social media channels. Supporters can also contribute by purchasing needed supplies through the organization’s public wish list, available via links and QR codes posted on Albert’s Dog Lounge social media pages and website.
For updates, donation links, and wish list access, please visit:
Wishlist: https://a.co/07T6iSXR
Website: Albertsdoglounge.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlbertsDogLounge
To donate via PayPal or credit card: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=HBS96EVNRHQBL
Venmo (please watch for scammers): https://account.venmo.com/u/albertsdoglounge
Snail Mail:
Albert’s Dog Lounge
N7285 Woodfield Lane
Whitewater, WI 53190
Editor’s note: Albert’s Dog Lounge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.
The city and Discover Whitewater have installed a new electronic message board in Flat Iron Park (where the Birge Fountain is located). The sign will replace the banners that have been hung over Main Street at various times to encourage voting and announce pancake breakfasts and other events.
Michelle Dujardin of the Parks and Recreation Department told The Whitewater Banner that the department is in the process of creating a policy that will address what kinds of messages may be placed on the sign and what the charges will be for an announcement. The Banner will post this information as it is provided to us.
Tuesday, May 5 is the opening outdoor market day!! And the taco truck will be there too!!! So excited to be back and be with everyone again. The market will be back in the parking lot at Cravath Lakefront Park.
Expect to see Kristie’s Creative Kitchen, RedBud Acres, MY Farm, Murphy Farms. The Vegetable Stand, Good Dog Farms, Books By Kimberly, Wood Street Bakery, Kettle Moraine Honey, Jazzed up Marshmallows, Small Batch by Jackie, 3D Printastic, Studio 84, Morningside Farms, and Best Taste!! The Whitewater Fire/EMS will also be present!
We will have a few new vendors this year too. Veggies are already starting to come in for some. The Vegetable Stand will have fresh asparagus and even horseradish plants
Samuel Phoenix Celebrates 90 Years
On April 10, members of the Samuel Phoenix Chapter, NSDAR [National Society Daughters of the American Revolution], celebrated its 90th anniversary with a tea party and historical program at the Terraces of Lake Geneva. The guest of honor was State Regent Gena Selby.
Looking back, the year was 1936, a pivotal year in America, marked by New Deal reforms, natural disasters, cultural milestones and a decisive presidential election. The Great Depression was still deeply influencing our world. The Social Security act became operational. Our President Franklin Delano Roosevelt won a decisive victory over his opponent showing strong support for his New Deal politics. But here in southeastern Wisconsin, in Delavan, other monumental things were happening. Hazel Eugenia Vanderpool Elithorp was organizing a new chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. They petitioned the National Society for adoption and it was accepted and adopted. The Charter read: Whereas certain members of the National Society of the American Revolution, did, under the authorization of the National Board of Management, on the 18th day of April, 1936, organize a Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, in the City of Delavan State of Wisconsin. The chapter honored its organizing Regent, Mrs. George Elithorp, by naming the chapter after her ancestor, John Melchert Vanderpool. ancestor.
Other founding officers were Fannie Smith Spurling, Vice Regent; Agnes More Hazard, Secretary; Marvel C. Hobart, Treasurer; Nellie M. Castle Betzer, Chaplain; Miriam Kirkpatrick, Historian; and. Laura Sage Jones, Registrar. Other notable members were Florence Schuyler Ballantyne, Ruth Barker Crowe, Mary Alice Francisco and Geneva Bowler Llewellyn.
Thirty years later, a new board and members decided that the name was too long and petitioned the National Board again and this time asked for a name change to Samuel Phoenix Chapter. Samuel Phoenix and his brother were the founders of Delavan. The national board approved the name change and on April 18, 1936, it became official. Today our membership covers southeastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. Presently, we have 47 members with a few more waiting approvals. We are a service organization that meets monthly. For more information, you may contact Peggy Schutt, Registrar, 608-201-8162, pjs3130@gmail.com. You can also see our announcements on Facebook by entering our chapter name.
Photo names:
Front, left: Sonette Tippens, State Regent Gena Selby, State Vice Regent JaNelle Powers, Peggy Schutt; Middle: Judy Bartlett, Barbara Fadowski, Joanne Laufenberg, Chris Brookes, Kay Sargent, Charlene Staples, Jennifer Muraski, Carolyn Schultz; Back: Janet Zimmerman, Joyce Pagel, Kim Kohls, Brenda Harmon, Kelly Talty, Mary King.
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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