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Understanding the options available for compassionate end-of-life care can bring comfort and clarity to individuals and their loved ones. Join Dana, a nurse from Rainbow Community Care, for an insightful presentation on Tuesday, February 4, at 1:00 PM at Seniors in the Park, 504 W Starin Road, as she explores the essential aspects of palliative and hospice care and their impact on aging with dignity.
This comprehensive session will provide valuable information on how guided care can enhance quality of life, address pain management, and support individuals and families navigating life’s final stages.
Registration Deadline: Thursday, January 30 [Late registrations will almost certainly be welcome.]
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to ensure comfort and dignity in end-of-life care.
For more information and to register, please contact Seniors in the Park Monday through Thursday, 9 am—3 pm at the Senior Center or by phone at (262) 473-0535 or email Senior Coordinator Jennifer Jackson at jjackson@whitewater-wi.gov.
Submitted by Downtown Whitewater, Inc.
Image used with permission of City of Whitewater Parks and Recreation – Seniors in the Park Newsletter
UW-La Crosse announces fall 2024 Dean’s List
The following area students have been named to the Dean’s List at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for the fall semester of the 2024-25 academic year, ending in December.
Qualification for the Dean’s List is limited to students who have attained outstanding academic achievement. To be eligible, students must have earned at least a 3.5 semester grade point average and carried a minimum of 12 credits.
The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, founded in 1909, is one of 13 four-year institutions comprising the Universities of Wisconsin. UWL offers 130-plus degree programs from undergraduate to doctoral levels in arts, social sciences and humanities; science and health; business; and education. UW-La Crosse – www.uwlax.edu – is a top-ranked national university. It is the No. 1 public university in Wisconsin with fewer than 25,000 students, according to Niche’s Best Colleges ranking.
Students on the Dean’s List from this area include:
Whitewater, WI
Ethan Dugan, International Business Major
Caroline Skindingsrude, Elementary/Middle Education Major
Catherine Skindingsrude, Biology Major
Beloit Turner defeated Whitewater 59-45 in RVC Girls’ Basketball action Friday night, January 31, at Whitewater High School.
The game was back and forth for most of the first 15 minutes, and Turner built a five-point lead at halftime. In the second half, the teams played even until Turner went on a quick 9-2 run to take a 53-42 lead.
Calli Grosinske led all Whippet scorers with 23.
Whitewater plays at Delavan-Darien on Thursday, February 6, and then will have their last home game against Monroe on Tuesday, February 11. It will be senior night and parents’ night.
Article Submitted by Mike Dowden
Whitewater High School Head Girls’ Basketball Coach
dowmi01@wwusd.org
Expressive Explorations Photography Exhibition
Exhibit: January 30 – February 23, 2025, Cultural Arts Center Gallery
Reception: Saturday, February 8, 1 pm-3 pm, Light refreshments will be served.
The Whitewater Arts Alliance (WAA) is excited to announce the upcoming exhibition, “Expressive Explorations,” showcasing the work of three photographic artists: Tim Holte, Katy Daixon Wimer, and Jeff McDonald. This exhibition will be on display from January 30 to February 23, 2025, at the Cultural Arts Center. A special reception will be held on Saturday, February 8, from 1 pm-3 pm, where attendees can meet the artists and enjoy light refreshments.
This exhibition is part of WAA’s 20th-year celebration, marking two decades of artistic enrichment in the Whitewater community.
Katy Daixon Wimer, Operations & Events Coordinator for the Whitewater Chamber of Commerce and a dedicated WAA board member, is a southern Wisconsin soul dweller, poet, and photographer. She is passionate about reconnecting people to themselves and the natural world through her art. Katy’s work captures the essence of her surroundings and aims to inspire a deeper connection to the natural world. More about Katy can be found at katydaixon.net.
With over 40 years of experience, Tim Holte captures the essence of light and shadow in his photography, each image serving as a reminder of the past. Tim’s work allows him to express feelings that seldom surface, offering a unique perspective on the world around us. His photography is a testament to his appreciation of light and its interplay with shadows. To explore his photographic journey, visit timholtephotos.com.
Jeff McDonald‘s photography has been awarded medals in international exhibitions in the United States, Canada, Australia, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Serving as President of the WAA, McDonald is a seasoned business professional with degrees in Music and Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He has been a vital part of the Whitewater Arts Alliance since 2014, contributing as Treasurer and currently as President. Jeff has chaired the Fran Achen Juried Photography Exhibition for 11 years. His work reflects his deep commitment to the arts and his professional expertise. Discover more about Jeff’s work at jmacpix.com.
The Whitewater Arts Alliance invites you to experience the expressive works of these talented artists. Join us in celebrating 20 years of artistic excellence and community engagement.
Grace Alderman, from Whitewater, was named to the Milwaukee School of Engineering’s Dean’s List for the 2024 Fall Semester. Alderman is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
MSOE encourages excellence in academic achievement and, as a result, publishes the Dean’s List and Honors List each fall and spring semester. Students taking undergraduate courses who have earned at least 12 credits in residence at MSOE, are in good academic standing, and have a cumulative GPA of 3.20 or higher are on the Dean’s List. Students on that list who have maintained a 3.70 or higher receive “high honors.” Students with a term GPA of 3.20 or higher, who are not on the Dean’s List, are on the Honors List.
Milwaukee School of Engineering (www.msoe.edu) is the university of choice for those seeking an inclusive community of experiential learners driven to solve the complex challenges of today and tomorrow. The independent, non-profit university has about 2,800 students and was founded in 1903. MSOE offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering, business and nursing. Faculty are student-focused experts who bring real-world experience into the classroom. This approach to learning makes students ready now as well as prepared for the future. Longstanding partnerships with business and industry leaders enable students to learn alongside professional mentors and challenge them to go beyond what’s possible. MSOE graduates are leaders of character, responsible professionals, passionate learners and value creators.
From Tom Ganser: Contrails at sunrise on January 17, 2025.
Our thanks to Tom Ganser for sharing another interesting photo.
— 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!
The City of Whitewater Common Council approved an increase in the fine for parking tickets to $40 instead of $20 effective 12:01 a.m. on February 1, 2025. Motorists forgetting to move their vehicle off the street this Friday night will be at risk of being cited with that costly violation, as will, for example, anyone not noticing a “No parking this side of street” sign.
Winter “no parking” hours went into effect at 2 a.m. on November 1. Through March 31, 2025, it is illegal to park vehicles on any city street between 2-6 a.m. The only exceptions are (a) Physicians on a house call (how often does that happen now?), (b) Parking is permitted in the downtown parking area after 5 a.m., and (c) By special advance arrangement with the public works director. Violations may subject the vehicle owner not only to the fine but also the possibility of the vehicle being towed, resulting in additional expenses.
The fine for using a parking space that is reserved for persons with disabilities without having a permit is $80.
Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by Clker-Free-Vector-Images from Pixabay.
Editor’s note: The following is excerpted from an article that was published on the UW-Whitewater website. This Banner article highlights Katie Kuznacic’s recognition. Another Banner article will feature the recognition of Glenn Hayes.
Written by Chris Lindeke | Photos by Craig Schreiner, Finn Hartnett
Two members of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater family — each known for their passion, energy and commitment — earned spots on the BizTimes Media 2025 Notable Leaders in Higher Education list.
Glenn “Doc” Hayes, a champion of music and cornerstone of the university’s College of Arts and Communication, and Katie Kuznacic, a campus leader and productive fundraiser, were recognized by the publication as leaders in higher education in Southeastern Wisconsin.
“Doc and Katie are great representatives of our university. They are passionate and caring leaders, and I congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition,” Chancellor Corey King said. “They embody what we describe as Warhawk Bold in their spaces, and have each demonstrated their positive impact well beyond campus.”
Kuznacic making big strides in philanthropy, alumni engagement
Kuznacic started working in philanthropy and alumni engagement at UW-Whitewater in 2010. She currently serves as the vice chancellor for university relations and president of the UW-Whitewater Foundation and is a member of the Chancellor’s Cabinet leadership team.
Since starting in her position in 2023, Kuznacic has organized strategic collaboration and thought leadership with internal and external stakeholders to provide support for the student experience. Working with her university relations team, she has secured several six- and seven-figure gift commitments, leading to a record-breaking fundraising performance during the most recent fiscal year. Kuznacic also leads a highly engaged, supportive Foundation Board.
“I’d like to thank the BizTimes for this wonderful recognition and Will Broussard, vice chancellor of university advancement at UW-Stevens Point, for submitting the nomination,” Kuznacic said. “I’m privileged to work with talented, passionate people — including students, faculty, staff and alumni — at UW-Whitewater on a daily basis. It’s an incredible honor to be on this prestigious list.”
Kuznacic obtained a $2 million endowed faculty chair last fall, a gift that will support UW-Whitewater faculty in the enhancement of student opportunities that positively affect Wisconsin’s economy. She is currently planning a minimum $50 million fundraising campaign set to launch this year.
“Since Katie’s arrival nearly 15 years ago, the UW-Whitewater Foundation has made huge strides in fundraising to support student success priorities and initiatives. It is a privilege to work with someone who is so passionate about the university and the student experience,” said Sandy Dunst, chair of the UW-Whitewater Foundation Board and 1979 graduate with a BBA in accounting. “Last year alone, under her leadership, the foundation provided over $3.5 million in impact to the university, including over $1.3 million in scholarships.”
Kuznacic, who earned both a B.A. in speech and public relations and a Master of Business Administration from UW-Whitewater, is a member of the Janesville Lions Club. She has spoken at the Wisconsin Research Administrators Network Symposium and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.
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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