Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006

Today is Friday, June 19, 2026

News & Events

WHITEWATER WEATHER

To add an event, click here to go to the Community Calendar.  Then, click on Submit Event.

Helpful Links

Search our Archives

To search our archives, enter a search term in the search box, then press enter to search.

Local Student Named to Upper Iowa University Dean’s List

February 5, 2025

FAYETTE, IA — Upper Iowa University is pleased to announce the Dean’s List for the Fall 2024 semester. To be honored, the undergraduate must have earned a minimum 3.50 GPA and be enrolled as a full-time student.

Among those named to the Dean’s List was Avery Agnew, a Exercise Science major from Whitewater, WI.

About Upper Iowa University Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, nonprofit university providing undergraduate and graduate degree programs to roughly 5,500 students-nationally and internationally-at its Fayette, Iowa, Campus, and education centers through the U.S. Upper Iowa University is a recognized innovator in offering accredited, affordable, and quality programs through flexible, multiple delivery systems, including online and self-paced degree programs. With a focus on developing leaders and lifelong learners, UIU provides dual enrollment programs for high school students as well as continuing education and professional development opportunities for learners of any age. For more information, visit www.uiu.edu.

Four Medal at JV Conference Swim Meet

February 5, 2025

The Whippet Swim Team had four compete at JV Conference on Tuesday, February 4th. Angel Kilar, Sam Nickelsburg, Xavier Ortiz and Isaac Straight all showed up and swam some really strong and impressive races.

Whippet JV Swim Team

The four of them teamed up to compete in the 200 Medley Relay. Each of them put up impressive splits, Xavier 37.41 in the 50 Back, Isaac 40.44 in the 50 Breaststroke, Sam 32.71 in the 50 Fly, and Angel 36.43 in the 50 FR. Their times were good enough for a 3rd place finish!

Sam crushed his 200 Freestyle dropping 7 seconds and securing a 5th place medal finish!

Isaac and Angel both swam some pretty fast 50 Freestyles finishing 10 & 12 respectively.

Angel had an 8th place finish in the 100 Freestyle going right on his best time!

The four of them worked together to secure another 3rd place finish, this time in the 200 Freestyle Relay!

Isaac and Xavier took on the 100 Breaststroke. Isaac dropped 3 seconds to go a time of 1:26.61 and take home a 4th place medal. Xavier also dropped over 4 seconds to go a best time of 1:36.54 and finished 7th overall.

Up next, the boys will be competing at the Southern Lakes Conference Meet at Beloit Memorial on Saturday, February 8. Swimming starts at 11 am; we hope to see you there!

Article and Photo Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
ReynoldsSM07@uww.edu

This Week’s City Meetings (Updated)

February 4, 2025

Updated on 2/6/25 to add agendas for Thursday meetings.

City of Whitewater Equal Opportunities Commission – Monday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room, 312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86935487361?pwd=hzqSBQ2aEitTZbZVUo2KiAnnLm0AWH.1
Or dial 1 312 626 6799
Meeting ID: 869 3548 7361
Passcode: 127947

City of Whitewater Common Council – Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Deb Reinbold, Executive Director of Jefferson County Economic Development Consortium, will speak on Housing, First reading of an ordinance creating the Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center Committee, CLOSED SESSION Adjourn to Closed Session, TO RECONVENE, Q1 Crime Prevention Strategies update and City Manager’s Performance Evaluation.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to
join: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81763470107?pwd=IVMOx5yoZnAObPal3b0TF0ZFOQ6A6u.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 817 6347 0107
Passcode: 767507

City of Whitewater Starin Park Water Tower Community Committee – Wednesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone. Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/535334845
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 535-334-845
United States: +1 (224) 501-3412
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install

City of Whitewater Landmarks Commission – Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Staff update on where the signage for Territorial Oak is located and when it will be replaced and Discussion and possible action regarding a joint meeting with Urban Forestry regarding Territorial Oak.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone. Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/392641661
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 392-641-661
United States: +1 (646) 749-3122
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install

City of Whitewater Lakes Advisory Committee – Thursday @ 8:30 a.m.
Agenda
Lakes Advisory Committee Meeting
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West
Whitewater Str, Whitewater, WI, 53190 *In Person
and Virtual
Thursday, February 06, 2025 – 8:30 AM
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please note that although every effort will be made to provide for virtual participation, unforeseen
technical difficulties may prevent this, in which case the meeting may still proceed as long as there is a quorum.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83297790237?pwd=6fLb1I9BOaMapbqoB4IDm1ftFbI1IJ.1
Meeting ID: 832 9779 0237
Passcode: 471402
One tap mobile
+13126266799,,83297790237#,,,,471402# US (Chicago) +16469313860,,83297790237#,,,,471402# US


City of Whitewater Public Arts Commission – Thursday @ 5:00 pm
Agenda
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
* Virtual Only*
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone. Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/561728445
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 561-728-445
United States: +1 (872) 240-3311
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install


Scholarly Scoop: A Nuanced Look at Central American Migration

February 4, 2025

The topic of Central American migration across the U.S.-Mexico border has long been a flashpoint in domestic politics. However, beyond media narratives and political rhetoric lies a deeper historical context shaping today’s immigration policies.

Join Dr. Micah Wright, Assistant Professor of History at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, for an enlightening discussion on Friday, February 7, at 10:30 AM at Seniors in the Park, 405 W Starin Road. Dr. Wright will provide an overview of U.S.-Central American relations, tracing historical developments from the Cold War to the Biden Administration. This presentation will explore the evolution of U.S. immigration law and shifting public opinion, offering insights to foster a more nuanced conversation on border security and immigration policy.

Dr. Wright’s research focuses on interAmerican relations, U.S. military occupations, and the influence of colonial peoples on U.S. politics in the twentieth century. His scholarship has been published in notable journals such as Gender & History, The Latin Americanist, and Caribbean Studies. He is currently developing a book manuscript based on his dissertation, which was recognized with an Oxford University Press USA International History Dissertation Prize honorable mention.

Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of a complex and timely issue. Find additional information on Dr. Wright and his research here.

Submitted by Downtown Whitewater, Inc.

Celebrating Two Years of BaristaCats Cafe: A Purr-fect Story

February 4, 2025


This month, a downtown business celebrates an incredible milestone —its second anniversary! What began as an idea during a trip to the United Kingdom in 2021 for owner Natalie has flourished into a community hub that has changed lives—both feline and human—right here in Whitewater.


Since opening its doors, BaristaCats Cafe has made quite an impact, rescuing over 200 cats and successfully placing more than 150 in loving forever homes. For countless visitors, it has been a haven for relaxation, coffee, and, of course, cat snuggles. The comfort and companionship this unique establishment provides have made it a beloved stop in Whitewater’s historic downtown commercial district.


BaristaCats’ journey is nothing short of inspiring. As the first KIVA microloan recipient in the City of Whitewater to receive a Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) matching grant, the cafe has been at the forefront of innovative small business funding. It also proudly won the Whitewater Windup competition, secured a grant from the Walmart Community Foundation, and continues to rally support from animal lovers throughout the region.


The success of BaristaCats Cafe is a testament to the power of community support, passion, and a mission-driven business. Congratulations to the entire BaristaCats team on this incredible achievement! Here’s to many more years of coffee, cuddles, and cat adoptions in Whitewater!


Stop by, celebrate this small business, and maybe even meet your future feline companion—because every cup of coffee served at BaristaCats helps make a difference.

submitted by Downtown Whitewater, Inc.
photos generously provided of the 2nd Anniversary Pawty on Feb 1, 2025 by BaristaCats Cafe & Sanctuary for Wayward Cats

Registration Open for U6-U8 Spring Soccer Session

February 4, 2025

Spread the word… Registration is now open for the U6-U8 nontraveling spring session! Visit our website for more information and to get your player registered!! We’re looking forward to another fun-filled session and to seeing you all on the field!

The Whitewater United FC Club is the local soccer club for children in the area. The club is completely volunteer-run and plays during the fall and spring. Our home fields are at Moraine View Park.

  • U6 Practice Monday 5-5:45, game day Wednesday 5-5:45 pm
  • ​U8 Practice Monday & Wednesday 5:15-6:00 pm. Game day Friday 5:15-6 pm

Club E-mail: general@whitewaterunitedfc.com

Registrar: Raquel Serna – Registrar@whitewaterunitedfc.com

Jefferson County Farm Bureau Accepting Scholarship Applications

February 4, 2025

Scholarship Applications Available for Local Students

Jefferson County Farm Bureau is now accepting applications for its annual scholarship program. The scholarship is available to graduating high school and current college/technical school students who will continue their education in 2025-2026. The purpose of this scholarship is to provide financial assistance toward the cost of higher education.

To be eligible, students must be the son or daughter of a Jefferson County Farm Bureau member and pursuing higher education from an accredited college, university, or technical school. Applications are due on April 1 and are available at local high schools or from the Jefferson County Farm Bureau webpage.
www.wfbf.com/countyfarmbureaus/jefferson

Jefferson County Farm Bureau has maintained strong support for community and youth programs and is one of the 61 county Farm Bureau organizations that make up the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation (WFBF). WFBF is the state’s largest
general farm organization representing farms of different sizes, commodities, and management styles.

The Young Presents “The Wizard of Oz” Featuring Local Students

February 3, 2025


Missoula Children’s Theatre is the nation’s largest touring children’s theatre, touring extensively for more than 40 years, performing all over the world. A tour team arrives in a given town with a set, lights, costumes, props and make-up, everything it takes to put on a play…except the cast. The team holds an open audition and casts 50-60 local students to perform in the production. The show is rehearsed throughout the week and a public performance is presented on a Saturday.‍

This year’s MCT show is an original adaptation of the classic children’s story, The Wizard of Oz. 

Tickets for the show on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 3:00 p.m. are available here for $24. They also may be purchased at the ticket office in the Greenhill Center for the Arts, 950 W. Main Street in Whitewater or at the door with a $2 surcharge.

Obituaries

Obituary: Marion Jauch Burrows, 96

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

Obituary: Patricia “Pat” Bailey, 70, of Woodbury, MN

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

Obituary: Gemelino Paris Esperante, 83

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

Obituary: Mary Ann Warner, 86, of Dodgeville

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

Obituary: Patricia Jacobson, 81

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

Obituary: Lois Lauritzen, 92, of Brookfield

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

Obituary: Donald Walter Triebold, 91

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

Obituary: William Kincaid Davis, 84, of Evansville

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

Obituary: Magdalene “Maggie” Stetter (nee Fritz), 79

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

Obituary: Lawrence “Larry” C. Hartung, 76, of Fort Atkinson

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