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Today is Thursday, June 18, 2026
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The Walworth/Jefferson Chapter of the Ice Age Trail has organized two family friendly hikes in honor of our neighboring city, Palmyra, becoming an Ice Age Trail Community!
Join us for a pre-Mother’s Day hike on May 3. Yes, Mother’s Day is actually on May 10.
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by the Walworth/Jefferson Chapter of the Ice Age Trail.
Congratulations to the Culinary Team of Mady Stevens, Emma Valadez and Karlee Korbel Villegas on being chosen as honorable mention in the DPI Whipping Up Challenge Culinary Competition. Their recipe, Southwestern Lime Chicken Rice Bowl will be featured in the DPI cookbook for 2026-27. The girls had to create a healthy entree that could be potentially served in our school lunch program. The team is coached by Lynn Weilbrenner.
Article and Photos Submitted by Lynn Weilbrenner
Whitewater High School Family and Consumer Science Teacher
lweilbrenner@wwusd.org
Family Jams at the Whitewater Public Library
Calling all music makers! Kids and families are invited to “Family Jams: Music, Movement, and Instrument Exploration” at the Whitewater Public Library on Saturday, May 2 at 10:30 a.m. in Meeting Room 1. Explore world instruments in the “Instrument Lab,” dance and move to expressive music, and make music together at “Family Jams,” a memorable music & movement experience for the whole family. All ages welcome! There is no cost or registration.
10:30-11:00: Instrument Lab: everyone can freely explore and “jam” with a variety of world instruments.
11:00-11:45: Music and Movement “Family Jams” — dance and create music together as a group.
The class is taught by Noelle Larson, a Board-Certified Music Therapist, graduate of Whitewater High School and Berklee College of Music, and the owner of Circle of Song Music Therapy, LLC. Noelle has a passion for helping clients and participants to “Connect, Thrive, and Come Alive Through Music,” strengthen family relationships, learn adaptive coping strategies, and experience wonder and joy through the delight of participating in live music making.
The Whitewater Public Library is located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater. For more information, visit whitewaterlibrary.org, email library@whitewater-wi.gov or call 262-473-0530.
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Studio 84.
Written by Lalaina Chandanais | Photos submitted
Being a writer is much more than just the ability to arrange words on a page. It is capturing moments, invoking feelings, and communicating effectively in a wide variety of situations.
Monica Cull, a University of Wisconsin-Whitewater graduate from Hartford, Wisconsin, has always considered herself a writer. Having been drawn to writing travel blogs and other forms of journalistic writing since she was young, she knew that she wanted to go into a career that would allow her skill with words to flourish.
As a first-generation college student whose parents both worked in trade careers, Cull’s educational journey was a winding path. Prior to her time at UW-Whitewater, she attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee at Washington County, an institution that prepared students to transfer to a four-year university.
In 2014, Cull made the decision to become a Warhawk, a choice that was fueled by both a care for her family back at home and a deep desire to pursue her passion for writing — she eventually declared majors in both English (creative writing) and journalism.
“During that time, it was hard to be away from my family. The campus was easy to commute to, so I could still be there to support them,” said Cull. “I also knew that Whitewater had a really good creative writing program.”
From the moment she began at the UW-Whitewater campus, it became clear to Cull that she was entering an era of her life that would be filled with endless opportunities and connections. It did not take long before it “felt like home.”
Finding her niche
While Cull knew she wanted to pursue an English degree, it was hard to decide from the many possible routes the major afforded her.
Cull stated that it was the individualized support from faculty members of the creative writing department who helped her discover the kinds of writing that excited her. Professors such as Donald Jellerson, Deborah Fratz, and Holly Wilson — associate professors of literature, writing, and film — played large roles in her journey as a student writer.
“The professors really make the program stand out. A lot of the classes teach you how to be a more versatile writer, and how to use creative writing skills in the real world,” said Cull. “I have emailed my professors after graduation, and they have given me advice. It is clear that they want to see their students succeed.”
The well-rounded writing education Cull received allowed her to experiment with writing in a variety of different formats. She discovered newfound confidence in areas such as interviewing, social media writing, screenwriting, and more — all of which she was able to translate into her professional career.
In 2017, Cull was offered a chance to spend a semester studying communications and journalism in Dalkeith, Scotland, through the Experience Scotland program. She jumped at the opportunity.
“Studying abroad was the best thing I’ve ever done in my whole life,” said Cull. “I met my fiancé there, and it made me realize that being a writer can give you the flexibility to write from anywhere.”
From student to professional editor
Right after Cull graduated in 2019, she was hired as an intern at Cream City Marketing and was able to immediately apply the versatile writing skills she developed during her undergraduate career to work her way up to a copywriter position.
“I remember being about to graduate and people were concerned about finding jobs. With my creative writing background, I was able to get a job in marketing,” said Cull. “These skills propelled me into my journalism career.”
After four years of working at the marketing agency, Cull saw an opening in a nearby town for an assistant editor position at Discover Magazine, a science magazine that publishes articles on new scientific developments. Her multifaceted talents in both creative writing and journalism made her stand out as a candidate, and she landed the job.
“I took a huge risk,” said Cull. “I am not a huge city person, and to find a job in journalism in Waukesha was crazy, so I applied.”
Cull now works as the digital editor for Discover, editing stories from freelance writers along with writing her own. Through this position, she sees her writing education translate directly into her daily work. She has also found herself forming connections with — and learning from — people she had never thought she would meet.
Cull interviewed nationally renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson in 2023 for her article “Sci-Fi and Bringing Back the Mammoth with Neil deGrasse Tyson,” which she refers to as the highlight of her career.
“I never thought I would be a science journalist. It is a good example of how having skills like script writing and other versatile writing abilities is important,” said Cull.
With the rise of artificial intelligence, current and incoming creative writing students may be worried about what the future of professional writing careers may look like. Cull argues that, on the contrary, the need for strong writers in the world is greater than ever.
“I think it will become even more critical to have people who know how to write well and consistently,” said Cull. “Don’t give up and don’t be afraid to try different kinds of writing. Newscasters and podcasts need people to write for them, too.”
Sometimes a few simple words change how we look at things.
When thinking back on the most influential moments that fueled her to continue writing, Cull recalls what her friend from UW-Whitewater said to her during a moment of uncertainty — one small, pivotal phrase that stuck with her.
“Someone has to do it. Why not you?”
Congratulations to the WHS Music students who performed at the WSMA State Solo/Ensemble Festival on the UW-Whitewater Campus last Saturday, April 25th! Twenty-five events received a 1st rating and five events received a 2nd rating. Congratulations to all students who made it to State! Results for competitors can be found at https://wsmamusic.org/festivals/state/whitewater/results/
The Exemplary Performance Recognition Project expands recognition of outstanding performers at the WSMA State Solo & Ensemble Festival. State festival adjudicators select the most exceptional performances at each of the festival campuses through a two-step process. One WHS event received the Exemplary Performance Recognition Award: Ava Van Daele (Musical Theater Solo) and 3 other events were nominated for consideration: Ian Agen (Musical Theater Solo), Lia Ramirez (Musical Theater Solo), Ian Agen and Ava Van Daele (Classical Soprano Tenor Duet).
Article and Photos Submitted by MacKenzie Gehrke
Whitewater High School Vocal Music Instructor
gehma01@wwusd.org
The Whitewater Community Foundation is now accepting applications for Spring Community Action Grants. Grants will be awarded to local non-profit organizations actively working to support the greater Whitewater community with educational, cultural, charitable and benevolent projects that will benefit and improve the community.
Projects are expected to be accomplished within a specific period of time (generally not more than one year) and should be creative, innovative and address community needs. The deadline for submitting applications is April 30, 2026.
Virginia Coburn, WCF Board Member who chairs the Community Action Grant Selection Committee, said, “I’m inspired by the number of local organizations sponsoring programs and projects to benefit the community. The Foundation has given grants to The Community Space, Whitewater Food Pantry, Bethel House, First United Methodist Church, St. Patrick Catholic Church, Whitewater Rescue Squad and many more. I invite you to read the pages on our website to see if one of your projects is eligible for an action grant.”
Organizations interested in pursuing a Whitewater Community Foundation Action Grant should check out the Foundation web site at https://whitewatercommunityfoundation.org/?s=Action+Grants or contact Ginny Coburn at virginiacoburn@coburn.com for more information.
The Foundation continues to provide and host scholarships for Whitewater High School students and also offers fiscal sponsorship to organizations that are seeking 501(c) (3) status or require temporary pass-through funds for worthy community projects.
More information about the Whitewater Community Foundation can be found at https://whitewatercommunityfoundation.org/ and on Facebook.
The Whitewater Community Foundation’s mission is to enhance quality of life in the Whitewater area via educational, cultural, charitable or benevolent expenditures.
Join us for three upcoming senior vocal recitals at WHS!
All recitals begin at 7:00 pm in the James M. Stewart Auditorium at Whitewater High School. Admission is free.
Isabella Cohen- May 1
Charlotte Hajewski- May 8
Joint Senior Recital (Chacha Binagi, Samuel Nickelsburg, and David Enns)- May 14
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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