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
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.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
For our last image of the historic East Side School, we present this view of the old school with the new wing completed in 1955. The “baby boom” resulted in much school construction, including a new west side elementary school in 1953 and a new high school in 1959. Around 1961, the elementary schools were given new names and this building became the Washington School. Then, in 1966, the old section of the building was demolished and a new central core building was attached to the 1955 wing. Finally, around 2002, the 1955 wing was demolished in favor of a modern wing and the school, as it exists mostly today, resulted.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(3689P, Whitewater Historical Society)
MANCHESTER, NH – Jessica Ellifritz of Delavan (53190) has been named to Southern New Hampshire University‘s Summer 2024 Dean’s List. The summer terms run from May to August.
Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.500 to 3.699 for the reporting term are named to the Dean’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.
MANCHESTER, NH – Madelyn Fosen of Whitewater (53190) has been named to Southern New Hampshire University‘s (SNHU) Summer 2024 President’s List. The summer terms run from May to August.
Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with a 92-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 200,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH. Recognized as one of the “Most Innovative” regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner.
| Gov. Evers Orders Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Staff Sgt. Ralph H. Bode Who Lost His Life in WWII |
| Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #241 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, in honor of U.S. Army Air Force Staff Sgt. Ralph H. Bode, who lost his life in World War II and whose remains have been identified and returned to Wisconsin for burial. “Staff Sergeant Bode selflessly gave his life fighting for the freedoms of his fellow Americans and our allies abroad,” said Gov. Evers. “It is an honor to be able to help welcome him back to Wisconsin after 80 years, where he can finally be laid to rest in his hometown of Racine.” A native of Racine, Staff Sgt. Bode was a member of the 700th Bombardment Squadron, 445th Bombardment Group, 2nd Air Division, 8th Air Force in the European Theater during World War II. On Sept. 27, 1944, Staff Sgt. Bode’s aircraft was shot down while on a bombing mission over Kassel, Germany, and a finding of death was issued by the U.S. War Department on Sept. 28, 1945. In 1951, the American Graves Registration Command recovered remains from the crash site and interred them at the Luxembourg American Cemetery in Luxembourg and the North African American Cemetery in Tunisia. Staff Sgt. Bode’s remains were positively identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency on Dec. 26, 2023. Staff Sgt. Bode will be buried on Fri., Sept. 27, 2024, in Racine. |
5k First Place male and female with Patrick Singer, Common Council president
Half Marathon male winners with Patrick Singer, Common Council president [Submitted photos]
The Greater Whitewater Committee (GWC)’s 12th annual Discover Whitewater Series (DWS): Half Marathon, Half Marathons Teams, and 5k was a smashing success raising money for local charities.
This year’s DWS brought in over 452 participants, 250 volunteers and nearly 70 sponsors. The DWS team was thrilled to welcome 450 runners from so many different states other than Wisconsin. The weather was cooler and rainy for the runners, with a temperature of 68 degrees.
Common Council President Patrick Singer arrived at the race bright and early to give the welcoming remarks and wished all of the participants a great race day.
Congratulations to all of our runners, toughing it out even during a rainstorm! A special shout out to all of our top placing racers!
Women’s Half Marathon Winners: Jessa Victor, Rebecca Hregornik, Jenny Zwagerman
Mens Half Marathon Winners: John Dewitt, Joe Zack, Nick Schmidt
Half Marathon Teams Winners: Tyler Zwagerman, Jenny Zwagerman, Christina Moehn, Alex Moehn
Women’s 5k Winners: Heidi Mane, Tracy Curtis, Sydney Rychtik
Men’s 5k Runners: Mark Elworthy, Andy Verbos, Paul Taylor
To see all race results, make sure to visit: https://runwhitewater.com/race-results/
As runners ventured through the course, they got to experience some of Whitewater’s finest features. The DWS team was proud to welcome new and returning participants alike. Thanks to all of the hard work of our amazing volunteers and sponsors, the 12th Annual DWS proved once again, to achieve its mission of bringing people together in support of a good cause.
All proceeds will be distributed to the DWS’ four charity partners: Whitewater LEADS, Bethel House of Whitewater, UW Whitewater Foundation Athletics, and the J-Hawk’s Aquatic club. Runners and volunteers joined together after the race to celebrate the day’s accomplishments, enjoying a free beverage from bronze sponsor 841 Brewhouse.
Congratulations to John Dewitt for setting a new record at this year’s DWS. His time was 1:07:27. Even with these weather conditions he did an amazing job. John Dewitt competed in the Olympic trials for the marathon in summer of 2023; we are so glad to have him participate in the Discover Whitewater Series.
“I want to congratulate John Dewitt, breaking the record in these weather conditions is super impressive,” said Race Director, Dawson Miller, “We are so glad to see him come back for the fourth year in a row.”
Photo gallery courtesy of Tom Ganser
The DWS team would like to thank all who came out in support of the race. The entire community has been a part of such an amazing event that has greatly helped charities across Whitewater.
About the DWS
The goal of the DWS is to promote the City of Whitewater and highlight its greatest features, while keeping everyone in the community active. All the proceeds from the race are donated to local non-profit partners: Bethel House (which
provides interim housing for homeless families), Whitewater LEADS, Working for Whitewater’s Wellness (W3), and the J-Hawk Aquatic Club. The DWS partners with the city, business community, and university to make this a tremendous event that benefits all who participate. For more information about the race visit www.runwhitewater.com.
Tom Ganser writes, “By total chance, I happened for a first time to see this flushing of a fire hydrant on Esterly Avenue where I have lived for 33 years. Pure fun to see.”
—
As was previously posted to The Banner:
The Water Utility will begin its semi-annual water main and hydrant flushing program on Monday, September 23, through Friday, September 27, 2024.
Flushing of water mains is necessary to test the hydrants to make sure adequate flow and pressure is available. It also confirms the fire hydrants and valves are operating correctly. In addition, it enhances water quality by removing sediment from the pipes in order to maintain water clarity and quality in the distribution pipes.
Occasionally, water becomes discolored after hydrant flushing. If this happens turn on an outside spigot or a cold water tap, in the lowest level of your home, for a few minutes until the water clears. If it doesn’t clear the first time, wait a few minutes and run the water again. You may want to wait until the crew has left the area and the water settles down before running your water tap.
Additionally, caution should be exercised in washing of white clothing. Discoloration of water, due to flushing, WILL stain white clothing. Therefore, you should avoid washing clothes until the water clears.
If the Water Utility crew experiences more repairs than expected throughout the week, flushing may continue into the following week. Thank you for your patience and understanding during water main and hydrant flushing.
Jim Bergner, Superintendent
Water Utility
jbergner@whitewater-wi.gov
(262) 473-0560
Walworth County Treasurer Valerie Etzel announces that the sale of county-owned properties will be conducted by Wisconsin Surplus Online Auction and will take place beginning on Wednesday, September 25th, and concluding on Wednesday, October 9th, at 10:00 AM.
Please visit www.wisconsinsurplus.com for a complete listing of properties for sale and information on how to bid. Properties are located in the towns of Bloomfield, East Troy and Troy and the city of Elkhorn. Specific questions may be directed to the County Treasurer’s Office from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, 262-741-4251, email treasurer@co.walworth.wi.us, or visit the Walworth County website at www.co.walworth.wi.us.
The Whippet Girls’ Swim Team hosted Badger and Platteville/Lancaster in their first home meet of the season on Tuesday, September 24! The night was filled with lots of best times and some new races for individuals!
Maggie Maas put on a gutsy performance in the 200 Freestyle. She won the event against Platteville/Lancaster and pushed the Badger swimmers until the very end. Maggie’s performance was a lifetime best for her, going a time of 2:24.76! Lucy Davis has really found her niche in the 200 Freestyle and continues to knock more and more time off; she swam a stellar 2:31.30!
In the 200 IM, Grace Coleman took on the battle for the first time and crushed it! We are excited to see her improvement in this event moving forward in the season. Makayla Bazeley also swam a great race winning the event against Platteville/Lancaster; she went a time of 2:19.54.
Laken DePorter went 4/4 on the night. She dropped nearly 2 seconds in her 50 Freestyle going a 35.75, she broke the 1:30 mark in her 100 Freestyle going a time of 1:28.38, and she also improved her 50 free relay split time and 100 free relay split time!
Charlotte Hajewski continues to improve on her 500. She won the event against Platteville/Lancaster with a time of 6:26.29.
Both of our 200 Freestyle Relays had some great races. Some notable splits came from Lucy Davis who led off the relay to go a lifetime best in the 50 Free with a time of 32.93, Atreya Wilson who went a 34.57 in her 50 free split, Maya Davis who also led off to race against her sister posting a best time in the 50 free with a time of 37.64, and Caitlin Alford who continues to improve her time!
In the 100 Backstroke, Marijose Verduzco swam a close race against Platteville/Lancaster taking second and improved her time by 4 seconds!
In the 400 Freestyle Relay consisting of Makayla Bazeley, Lucy Davis, Charlotte Hajewski, and Emerson Dunham, all swimmers posted new best times for the season! Makayla led off with a 55.64, Lucy split a 1:09.63, Charlotte split a 1:09.30, and Emerson anchored with a 1:06.15.
The girls travel to Jefferson High School to compete in the EagleJay Invite on Saturday, September 28. The meet starts at 10 am. We hope to see you there!
Article and Photo Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
ReynoldsSM07@uww.edu
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Pride Inc.
Whitewater’s fourth annual Pride Rally promises to be the biggest and best yet. This free, family-friendly celebration takes place on Saturday, October 5 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Cravath Lakefront Park in downtown Whitewater.
The Pride Rally will include activities for children, adults, and even the family pets, all in support of our LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors, with a focus on high school and college students. The events include music, performances, over 30 vendors, and several food trucks. Speakers include City Manager, John Weidl; UW-Whitewater Chancellor, Dr. Corey A. King; Whitewater High School’s Associate Principal, Kate McNulty; and Fair Wisconsin’s Policy and Advocacy Director, Sean O’Brien, who will discuss the state of the LGBTQ+ movement locally and nationally.
“Since 2021, Whitewater Pride has been creating a jubilant safe space for our community to truly celebrate their unique selves,” said Camden Harlan, President of Whitewater Pride Inc. “We are incredibly fortunate to have the support of our city, local businesses, schools, and community members. With their advocacy and agency, we have been able to fund field trips and scholarships for LGBTQ+ youth in our community, as well as provide inclusive events throughout the year where the LGBTQ+ community and allies come together and know just how loved and appreciated they are.”
Whitewater Pride T-shirts will be on sale at the event for $15. These T-shirts bear the Whitewater Pride logo, designed by UW-Whitewater student, Maddy Albanese. Colored fabric markers will be available to individualize the shirts on site.
A children’s corner will include activities and story time with a selection of LGBTQ+ children’s books.
Your pets are also invited to attend and participate in the third annual Pride Pet Costume Contest. Registration will take place from 11:00-11:30 a.m. on the day of the event. For the safety of your pets and others, please make sure all pets are leashed and comfortable with crowds.
Whitewater Pride is proud to announce official sponsors of the Pride Rally who have contributed financially to help support our local LGBTQ+ community. This year’s sponsors are: The Coburn Family, Generac, Whitewater Unites Lives, TDS Telecom, Stellar Vintage, Botanica Beauty Parlour, Fort HealthCare, and Fort Community Credit Union, The Dem Party of Wisconsin, and T-Mobile of Lake Geneva.
“These community partners are not only providing financial support to the work of Whitewater Pride, but they are also standing proud with our LGBTQ+ community members and allies. This statement of support reinforces the values of our communities that all are welcomed, valued, and embraced,” Kim Simes said.
Others wishing to support Whitewater Pride can visit whitewaterpride.org to become a Sponsor, Vendor, or Donor.
Event supporters include Whitewater High School GSA, PB Poorman Pride Center, Irvin L. Young Memorial Library, City of Whitewater, Whitewater Unites Lives, The Book Teller, The Sweet Spot, UW-W CARE, and Whitewater League of Women Voters. For more information visit www.whitewaterpride.org, Instagram @whitewaterpride, or Facebook at Whitewater Pride
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
Other Recent Posts
Click on the title to view the post. To open the post in a new tab, press Ctrl (Cmd on a Mac) while clicking on the title.
