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Today is Monday, June 22, 2026
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Encourages everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated against respiratory viruses to avoid serious illness
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has confirmed the first pediatric influenza-associated death in our state for the 2024-2025 season. Nationwide, 16 pediatric influenza-associated deaths have been reported.
“We are saddened to announce the season’s first death of a child from flu in Wisconsin, and our deepest sympathy goes out to this child’s family,” said State Health Officer Paula Tran. “Respiratory viruses remain a significant health concern, especially in children. If you or your loved ones have not received your flu or COVID-19 vaccine yet this season, it’s not too late. Vaccines are safe, effective, and save lives.”
Respiratory illness activity is currently high in Wisconsin. Emergency department visits due to flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have also increased, especially in infants and young children. While getting vaccinated against respiratory viruses is important for everyone, it is especially important for young children, older adults, people with chronic health conditions, and those who are pregnant. Getting vaccinated can help prevent illness or reduce the severity of symptoms and serious complications if someone does get sick.
DHS encourages everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19. Infants 8 months or younger and those 9-19 months with an increased risk of RSV can receive the RSV vaccine. Parents and caregivers can get information about which vaccines are right for their children from their health care provider. It’s recommended those who are between 32 weeks and 36 weeks pregnant get one dose of the maternal RSV vaccine, Abrysvo, administered September through January. Adults 75 and older and those 60-74 who have an increased risk of RSV are also eligible to get vaccinated against RSV.
People can help stop the spread of germs and increase protection against respiratory viruses by:
- Washing their hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
- Avoiding touching their nose, eyes, and mouth.
- Staying home and away from others if they feel sick.
- Avoiding being around others who are sick or have flu symptoms.
- Covering their nose and mouth when they cough or sneeze and encouraging children to do the same.
- Wearing a high-quality mask around others to prevent the spread of respiratory illness.
Wisconsinites can get vaccinated to protect themselves and their families by contacting their primary care provider, local or Tribal health department, community clinic, or visiting
Up-to-date information about the current respiratory season can be found in the DHS Weekly Respiratory Report or on the Respiratory Illness Activity webpage.
Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
Got plant problems? Learn plant diagnostics online
Plant Diagnostics: The Step-by-Step Approach to Identifying Plant Problems is an online course offered by the UW-Madison Division of Extension Horticulture Program. The course, which runs Feb. 1-April 30, 2025, is designed to teach you troubleshooting skills for plant-related problems.
Learn the step-by-step process for identifying plant problems in your yard and garden, and even in houseplants. This course explains the basics of the plant diagnostic process in an easy-to-understand way. Anyone who is interested in becoming a better gardener, regardless of skill level, is invited to register for the course!
At the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the steps of the diagnostic process
- Identify appropriate resources to use for diagnostics
- Know how to access UW-Madison Extension diagnostic labs and services for additional support
Plant Diagnostics: The Step-by-Step Approach to Identifying Plant Problems is self-paced with 13 modules that include videos, readings, and interactive activities. Course participants are also invited to attend two live webinars, “Putting the Process into Practice: Real World Diagnostics,” led by Extension educators, and “Meet the Labs!”, presented by UW-Madison diagnostic lab directors.
Registration for the general public and commercial professionals is open until Feb. 3, 2025. An Early Bird registration discount is available until January 21, 2025 at a rate of $99. The regular registration rate ($119) is in place Jan. 22-Feb. 3, 2025. Active Wisconsin Extension Master Gardeners are eligible for a special discounted rate of $49.
Find more information about this course and register at: go.wisc.edu/ExtDiagnosticsCourse
Questions? Contact the course moderator, Amy Freidig at gardening.class@extension.wisc.edu.
There will be five free band concerts in The Young, 930 W. Main Street on the UW-Whitewater campus this Friday and Saturday!
The concerts are a part of the Wisconsin Concert Band Association convention that is being hosted by the UW-W chapter of the Collegiate National Association of Music Educators and the Department of Music.
The free concerts on Friday are –
7:00 pm – La Crosse Logan High School Wind Symphony
8:00 pm – Arrowhead Union High School Wind Ensemble
9:00 pm WCBA Intercollegiate Honors Band
Whitewater native and WHS alum Dr. Erika Svanoe, a nationally known and respected composer, will conduct the band. Included on the program is the world premiere of Svanoe’s “Bolerobot.”
On Saturday, the free concerts are –
10:00 am – Mosinee High School Symphonic Band
11:00 am – Muskego High School Wind Ensemble
“This is a GREAT opportunity to hear bands from across the state. It’s a real bonus to have a world premiere by Erika Svanoe! I hope many residents turn out to welcome her home and witness how gifted she is as a conductor and composer!”, stated UW-W Director of Bands Glenn C. Hayes.
Wolf Moon by Tom Ganser
Wolf Moon by Tom Ganser
Wolf Moon by Bev Bonge-Ganser at Little Ripley Lake
Tom Ganser writes, “I took a photo of January 13th’s full “Wolf Moon” shortly after its rising and shortly before its setting from Acorn Ridge. Bev sent me a photo she took of the “Wolf Moon” from our cabin’s porch facing Little Ripley Lake.”
Our thanks to Tom and Bev for sharing these beautiful pictures.
From BBC:
The full Moon has many different names throughout the year. We normally have 12 full Moons a year, each with its own informal nickname.
January’s full Moon is also called the Wolf Moon, because it’s thought wolves howled more at this time of year as there was less food in the middle of winter.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. This week’s winter view is of the west side of Whitewater Street, across from the depot. The photograph is one-half of an old stereocard from around 1880. The building in the foreground with the sign that says “Whitewater Hotel” is where the current “Sweet Spot” cafe is located. But, it is not the same building. The building seen in this photo burned down about 1890 and was replaced by the current building (the old 20th century Whitewater Hotel) in 1892.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(2510ST, Whitewater Historical Society)
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today released the following statement regarding the passing of Bob Uecker: “I am saddened to hear of the passing of one of Wisconsin’s own, Mr. Baseball himself, the great Bob Uecker. For more than 50 years, Bob brought the magic of the ballpark to life for so many, and I am sure I speak for Brewers fans everywhere when I say we gladly would have had him for 50 more. “He wasn’t just a comedian and a great announcer—Bob was a man of character and integrity. Throughout his career, he made countless contributions to the history and culture of Major League Baseball, and he was active in giving back to our communities and our state. Boy, we’re going to miss him. “He was beloved, not just in Wisconsin but across the country. He was a giant, and I—like so many other lifelong Brewers fans—will miss hearing his enthusiasm and love for the game and our Brewers on the airwaves. It’s a sad day. Kathy and I are thinking of his family, friends, the Brew Crew, and all those who knew and loved Ueck. He will always be remembered.” |
The following statement was released by Uecker’s family:
“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Bob. To many, he was an announcer and entertainer whose humor and voice transcended the game, but to us he was so much more. Bob faced a private battle with small cell lung cancer since early 2023, which he met with the same strength and resilience that defined him. Even in the face of this challenge, his enthusiasm for life was always present, never allowing his spirit to falter. He brought joy to countless listeners through his wit, charisma, and love for baseball, Milwaukee, and all of Wisconsin, creating a legacy that will forever be cherished. While his contributions to the game are noteworthy, it is his kindness, humility, and love for family and friends that we will hold closest to our hearts. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time as we grieve and celebrate the man we were so lucky to call ours.” — The family of Bob Uecker
In a statement released by the club, Uecker’s family said he had battled small cell lung cancer since early 2023. “Even in the face of this challenge, his enthusiasm for life was always present, never allowing his spirit to falter,” the family said.
This statement was released by the Milwaukee Brewers:
“Today, we take on the heaviest of burdens. Today, we say goodbye to our beloved friend, Bob Uecker. Ueck was the light of the Brewers, the soundtrack of our summers, the laughter in our hearts, and his passing is a profound loss. He was the heart and soul of Wisconsin and a dear friend. Bob loved people; his presence warmed every room and he had a way of welcoming all of us into his world as if we were lifelong friends. Saying goodbye to Bob shakes us all. He was so much more than a Milwaukee Brewers icon. He was a national treasure. Bob entertained us with his words and storytelling, so it is no surprise that his passing now leaves us at a loss for our own words There is no describing the impact Ueck had on so many, and no words for how much he was loved. We are left with a giant void in our hearts, but also remember the laughter and joy he brought to our lives throughout the years.” — Milwaukee Brewers
Robert George Uecker (/ˈjuːkər/ YOO-kər; January 26, 1934 – January 16, 2025), better known as Bob Uecker, was an American professional baseball catcher and sportscaster who served as the primary broadcaster for the Milwaukee Brewers of Major League Baseball (MLB) for 54 seasons.
Uecker signed with his hometown Milwaukee Braves in 1956, spending several years in the minor leagues with various affiliate clubs before making his major league debut in 1962. As a backup catcher, he played for the Milwaukee Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, and Atlanta Braves from 1962 to 1967. He won a World Series with the Cardinals in 1964.
After retiring, Uecker started a broadcasting career and served as a play-by-play announcer for Milwaukee Brewers radio broadcasts from 1971. Uecker became known for his self-deprecating wit and became a regular fixture on late night talk shows in the 1970s and 1980s, facetiously dubbed “Mr. Baseball” by TV talk show host Johnny Carson. He hosted several sports blooper shows and had an acting career that included his role as George Owens on the television program Mr. Belvedere and as play-by-play announcer Harry Doyle in the film Major League and its two sequels.
Uecker was honored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame with its 2003 Ford C. Frick Award in recognition of his broadcasting career.
….Prior to the 2021 season, Uecker had never signed an official written contract with the Brewers to do the team’s play-by-play, instead agreeing to do so via an undisclosed number of handshake agreements with either Bud Selig or Mark Attanasio, the owners of the team. He signed a contract in 2021, in order to be covered under the Brewers’ health insurance plan after cuts to his SAG-AFTRA benefits for acting work.[14][15]
From 2022 to 2024, Uecker teamed with Jeff Levering and Lane Grindle to call Brewers home games on WTMJ in Milwaukee and the Brewers Radio Network throughout Wisconsin.[16] He was well known for saying his catchphrase “Get up! Get up! Get outta here! Gone!” when a Brewers player hit a home run.[1
Senior Voice Recitals are scheduled for Thursday, January 16, and Friday, January 17 for two very talented WHS students. On Thursday, Alex Sullivan will take the stage, and Friday is Alex Clarksen’s voice recital. Both performances begin at 7:00 PM in the James M. Stewart Auditorium at WHS and are free of charge.
The students have worked hard all semester to prepare, and would love to see a large audience.
Information Courtesy of MacKenzie Gehrke
Whitewater High School Vocal Music Teacher
gehma01@wwusd.org
This past Friday evening, Jack Hefty was recognized as the Wisconsin Cross Country Coaches Association Division 2 Cross Country Runner of the Year. The following script was written and read aloud by the WCCCA Vice President Andy Lelinski:
“Jack Hefty notched wins in two of his three invitationals this year, at McCarty Park at the Bulldog Invitational to start the season, winning by 26 seconds, and under the lights at the Lake Mills Nightfall Classic, winning by 13 seconds and breaking 16 for the third consecutive time this season. Even his lone loss of the season is impressive–another sub 16 effort at the Midwest Invitational. His championship season consisted of nothing but victories: a 48 second victory at the Rock Valley Conference Championship, a 22 second victory at the Whitewater Sectional, and a five second victory at the state championship. Congratulations Jack, on capping your high school career with an impressive season, and on being the Division Two Boys Runner of the Year.”
Congratulations, Jack!
Article and Photo Submittted by Chad Carstens
Whitewater High School Head Cross Country Coach
ccarstens@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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