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Today is Monday, June 22, 2026
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Editor’s note: The following is excerpted from a much longer Milwaukee Journal Sentinel front page article published on January 30. It appears that the article may not be behind a paywall.
Whitewater again finds itself the center of immigration, deportation spotlight
Sophie Carson Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
When Jorge Islas-Martinez first started getting calls from community members that federal immigration officers were conducting raids Thursday in his longtime home of Whitewater, he went out to try to find them.
After two hours, he phoned someone he’s close with to report there was no sign of any raids.
They asked: So it’s OK to turn the lights back on?
Islas-Martinez, a native of Mexico, is a fierce advocate for Whitewater’s Latino population. The symbolism behind the question struck him. Fear forces immigrants, even those legally in the U.S., to live in darkness, he said.
The next day, the situation slowly clarified. There were not raids in Whitewater.
It appears that officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, visited a person’s home and workplace in the area, but left without finding them. That’s according to Christine Neumann-Ortiz, executive director of Milwaukee immigrant advocacy group Voces de la Frontera, whose staff spoke to the person’s relative.
The rumor in the first week of President Donald Trump’s administration rattled Whitewater, a small community that’s been been in the national spotlight for the past year over its influx of mostly Nicaraguan migrants. And it exposed the substantial challenges ahead for cities of all sizes: discerning fact from fiction on the fly, and keeping residents’ trust in local law enforcement, even as federal agents carry out Trump’s promise of mass deportations.
“It’s not easy to be living like this,” Islas-Martinez said. “You cannot enjoy what freedom is.” …..
Marjorie Stoneman, the co-founder of the group Whitewater Unites Lives, said she was alarmed by what she heard through the grapevine. “But it must be absolutely terrifying for others” who could be personally affected by immigration enforcement, she said……
The incident also crystallized the challenge of verifying reports of immigration enforcement operations, and the delicate balance advocates face in deciding how to share them without stirring up unnecessary fear.
Voces de la Frontera is weighing all of that. Its emergency hotline got about a half-dozen calls about ICE in the Whitewater and Fort Atkinson areas last Thursday. It announced on Facebook that agents were “approaching homes and a factory” in the two cities. Over 1,400 people shared the post. Voces staff was able to confirm only that agents searched for one person and left without finding them……
With the threat of deportation looming, the best thing immigrant communities can do, right now, is understand their rights and prepare for what could happen, Islas-Martinez said. He is holding know-your-rights workshops in Whitewater and surrounding towns……
For some local law enforcement officials, the ICE operation in Whitewater was a preview of the uncomfortable position they may soon find themselves in…..
Whitewater Police Chief Daniel Meyer said his department will assist ICE if requested.
“That said, our preference is to have as little active participation in ICE operations as possible,” he said in a statement to the Journal Sentinel. “Our role as local law enforcement is not, and never will be, immigration enforcement.” ……
UW-Oshkosh Fall 2024 Dean’s List, Honor Roll released
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh officials have released the names of students who qualified for the Dean’s List and Honor Roll in fall 2024 across its Oshkosh and Fox Cities campuses.
The term grade-point average (GPA) requirement for University Honor Roll is 3.3; the term GPA requirement for Dean’s List is 3.75, out of a possible 4.0.
To qualify, a student must have been enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits. There can be no individual grades below a “C” and no incomplete or non-reported grades at the time the process is run.
Whitewater, WI
Martin Gonzalez, Honor Roll
Jayden Hawkins, Honor Roll
Allison Martens, Honor Roll
United Way of Walworth County Announces Opening of ARPA “Aid to Nonprofits” Round 6 Grant Applications
United Way of Walworth County would like to announce the opening of applications for the ARPA “Aid to Nonprofits” Round 6, effective at 12:00 p.m. Central Time on January 25th, 2025. The application period will close on February 28th, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Central Time.
This grant funding is available to eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits and 501(c)(19) veterans’ organizations in Walworth County. Organizations may apply for assistance of up to $9,000 to support their operations and initiatives.
To apply, please visit our website at unitedwaywalworth.org, navigate to the “More” section, and click on “ARPA Grant” for further details and to complete your application.
I am excited to continue supporting the vital work of nonprofits and veterans’ organizations in our community through this funding opportunity,
Brian Holt, Executive Director of United Way of Walworth County.
We encourage eligible organizations to apply before the deadline to ensure they have the chance to benefit from this much-needed assistance.
For any questions or additional information, please contact United Way of Walworth County. Email: director@unitedwaywalworth.org
Phone: 2623744474
Whitewater Housing Crunch: Expert Discussions Coming Soon! 
Whitewater is facing a critical housing shortage, and we’re bringing in top experts to discuss the challenges and solutions. Tune in to these upcoming meetings to learn how housing impacts our economy, workforce, and future growth.
February 20 – Common Council Meeting @ 6:30 PM
Derek D’Auria, Executive Director of Walworth County Economic Development Alliance (WCEDA)
Topic: How housing availability affects business development and workforce retention in Whitewater and Walworth County.
March 4 – Common Council Meeting @ 6:30 PM
Professor Kurt Paulsen, UW-Madison (Expert in housing policy, land use, and municipal finance)
Topic: Statewide housing trends and what they mean for Whitewater.
Why does this matter?
Single-family rentals: Nearly nonexistent
50%+ of renters are cost-burdened, spending over 30% of their income on housing
Watch our new housing video and learn more about what’s being done to address Whitewater’s housing crisis. https://youtu.be/Znzd_eeJwWI?si=2vMKufp3dWX-uYuY
Let’s have a fact-based conversation about housing solutions that work for our community! Join us at these meetings or watch live online.
Editor’s note: The following is excerpted from an article that was published on the UW-Whitewater website. This Banner article highlights the recognition of Glenn C. Hayes. Another Banner article will feature Katie Kuznacic’s recognition.
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.”
Hayes “one of the best on campus”
Hayes, director of bands and professor of music, is in his 38th year as a member of the Warhawk family. He has conducted performances at some of the world’s most famous venues while evolving UW-Whitewater into one of Wisconsin’s leaders in music education.
Under his direction the Symphonic Wind Ensemble became the first university band from the state to perform at New York’s Carnegie Hall in 2013 and, one year later, at the Symphony Center for the 2014 Chicago International Music Festival. The group performed again at Carnegie Hall in 2020 and will return to the world-famous venue for a performance this spring.
The Warhawk Marching Band, also directed by Hayes, has performed 12 times at Lambeau Field — most recently in 2023 [a 13-minute video of that performance day may be viewed at the link] — and three times during the Milwaukee Brewers’ Opening Day ceremonies.
“I am so honored to receive the BizTimes Notable Leaders in Higher Education honor,” Hayes said. “There are so many phenomenal people on our campus! I cannot adequately express my gratitude in representing the university in this way. I’m so blessed to receive truly extraordinary support from our administration, my colleagues and the phenomenal students that I have the joy of assisting on their journey. UW-Whitewater is a remarkable family! I am eternally thankful that my path led me here.”
Hayes’ impact reaches well beyond campus. He has been involved with nearly a dozen state and national organizations, presenting at more than 20 national and international conferences and guest conducting on four continents. He has earned numerous university, state and national awards, including induction into the Wisconsin School Music Association Marching Band Hall of Fame and the Signature Sinfonian National Award from Phi Mu Alpha for character, leadership, scholarship, and a career of achievement in advancing music. He is a recipient of the university’s Dr. Elmer G. Redford ’59 Faculty Service Award (2012) and the Outstanding LGBTQ+ Ally Award (2022).
Under Hayes’ leadership, UW-Whitewater has hosted the Wisconsin High School Marching Band Championships for each of the last 32 years and has coached thousands of youth through its high school band camp, which has been in existence for more than 50 years.
Hayes has mentored hundreds of Warhawks during his time on campus, including students, faculty and staff who’ve launched and/or enhanced careers in music education and other industries.
“’Doc’ is more than worthy of this recognition — quite simply, he’s one of the best on campus,” said Michael Dugan, dean of the College of Arts and Communication. “He is a leader on our campus and a respected global figure in the musical community. It is a joy to work with him each day as we move the Department of Music and the College forward.”
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Emy Islas has been chosen by the faculty at Whitewater High School to attend the Wisconsin Leadership Seminar at Carroll University in Waukesha June 13-15, 2025!
Emy will participate in team-building activities, hear motivational speakers, and participate in small group discussions designed to develop additional leadership skills in sophomores across the state of Wisconsin. Congratulations, Emy!
Article Submitted by Pam Sonmor-Wintz
Whitewater High School Counselor
psonmorwintz@wwusd.org
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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