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Whippets Fall to McFarland 35-6

September 10, 2024

The Whippet Football Team fell to McFarland 35-6 on Friday, September 6.

Coach Sam Bartlett stated, “This game was a situation where we got off the ball to attack very well; we just did not play disciplined football. We had penalties, turnovers, and other mistakes that held us back. The exciting part is that they are all things we can fix and that we will fix. Every day is a new opportunity to get better, and we will be a better team after facing off against McFarland. We are learning how to continuously compete every second of the game.

Offensively, it was our best game moving the ball, but untimely penalties and turnovers kept us from finding the end zone. We will correct those mistakes and become a team that finishes consistently in the end zone.

Defensively, we played hard and played a lot of the game very well. There was a coverage bust we will fix, and we were put in a bad position from a blocked punt. Overall, we will be a better team in Week 4 and look forward to the opportunity to keep competing!” 

Article Submitted by Sam Bartlett
Whitewater High School Head Football Coach
barsa01@wwusd.org
Photo Credit Olivia Kowalski

Community Listening Session on Modular Homes by NRS Real Estate

September 9, 2024


The City of Whitewater is inviting all residents to a community listening session on Friday, September 13th, to discuss an exciting new housing project proposed by NRS Real Estate. The session will focus on the potential development of modular homes, a distinctive and affordable housing option that could meet the needs of our community.

Date: Friday, September 13th
Time: 3-5 PM
Location: Community Room at City Hall, located at 312 W Whitewater Street

Unlike previous development proposals, the modular homes presented by NRS Real Estate offer a unique advantage—each unit can be delivered for under $300,000. This initiative aims to provide a more affordable housing solution while maintaining quality and design standards that align with Whitewater’s strategic goals.

NRS Real Estate representatives will be on hand to explain the details of the project, address any questions, and gather input from residents. This listening session is a crucial opportunity for community members to voice their opinions and help shape the future of housing in Whitewater.

“We’re committed to making sure that any development in Whitewater reflects the needs and desires of our residents,” said Economic Development Director Zeinert. “This session is an important step in that process, and we encourage everyone to participate and share their thoughts.”

Your feedback is vital in determining whether this modular home project is a good fit for our community. We look forward to hearing from you and working together to ensure Whitewater continues to be a great place to live.

For more information, please contact Taylor Zeinert at 262-473-0148 or at tzeinert@whitewater-wi.gov

Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the City of Whitewater.

Bethel House Seeking Sponsors for its Annual Fall Dinner Fundraiser on November 1st

September 9, 2024
Photos of last year’s dinner


Bethel House is seeking sponsorships for its annual Farm & Vine to Table Fall Dinner, which will be hosted this year on Friday, November 1st, at Staller Estate Winery & Vineyard.

“Our organization is so excited to once again host our Annual Fall Dinner at Staller Estate Winery & Vineyard,” states Megan Hartwick, Bethel House Executive Director. “This beautiful event serves as the primary fundraiser for Bethel House, providing crucial funding support for our organizational operations and our Emergency Assistance & Transitional Housing programs.”

The 2024 event will also celebrate Bethel House’s 30th anniversary.

“Last year’s event was the most successful Fall Dinner Bethel House has hosted, raising just over $27,000,” Hartwick adds. “This year, in honor of our milestone anniversary, we have set a very lofty goal to raise $30,000. And the way this community has always shown up for Bethel House and the families we serve, has me confident we can reach that.”

Confirmed sponsors for this year’s event include Bernie & Nancy Labovitch (Humanitarian Hero sponsor – $5,000), First Citizens State Bank, Sue & Ken Kidd and First English Lutheran Church (Community Investor sponsors – $3,000), Richard & Veronica Telfer, Bob & Sharon McCullough, Everett & Ellen Long, Harry & Barb Penington and Carole Scharinger (Family Advocate
sponsors – $1,000), and Kent Hutchins and Thayer & Anne Coburn (Hope Builder sponsors – $500).

The remaining sponsorships include one Community Investor, one Family Advocate, and four Hope Builders. Each level offers various recognition benefits, with full details available on the Bethel House website at www.bethelhouseinc.org. Sponsorship slots can be confirmed by contacting Hartwick at 262.473.2715 or director.bethelhouse@gmail.com. Sponsorships will be filled on a first-come-first-served basis.

The event is also supported by in-kind donations from Staller Estate Winery & Vineyard, Sue & Bill Chandler, Tom Ganser, and dozens of local business donors who have contributed to the silent auction.

“The generosity of Bethel House donors and supporters knows no bounds,” states Jessie Dugan, Bethel House Board President. “We are so appreciative of all who are extending financial support for this event, as well as all those who have contributed auction items, promoted ticket sales, and will be joining us on November 1st. Bethel House’s impact on local families wouldn’t be possible without this show of caring power from our community.”

Tickets for the Fall Dinner will be on sale starting Thursday, September 5th, and will remain open until October 18th or until sold out.

Tickets for the event are $75 and include a five-course dinner with wine pairings chosen by the Staller Estate staff. There will also be live orchestral music and many silent auction items for guests to bid on. Tickets can be purchased online through the Bethel House website (www.bethelhouseinc.org), or individuals can contact Bethel House to pay via mail and check.

“All proceeds from this event will support Bethel House’s critical work to prevent homelessness for children and families in the greater Whitewater community,” Hartwick adds. “The needs in our community are at an all-time high, and our staff and board of directors never cease to be amazed at the rallying support of Bethel House donors when they know local families need assistance. Bethel House believes that all families deserve a safe, stable place to call home, and we’re so thankful to all those who aid us in that work.”

Full event details can be found on the Bethel House website at www.bethelhouseinc.org. Any questions about the event can be directed to Hartwick at 262.473.2715 or director.bethelhouse@gmail.com.


Bethel House is an ecumenical project helping families facing homelessness in the Whitewater area. Bethel House provides transitional housing, emergency financial assistance, and case management to families in need.

Bethel House utilizes seven private housing units where families can live for up to one year while working on the issues that led to their homelessness. Case management services include budgeting, debt repayment, job searching, resume creation & building, life skills & decision-making, accessing other community resources & services, and much more.

Bethel House services are provided to clients free of charge and with understanding and compassion. Clients are always treated with the dignity and respect we all deserve. For more details, visit www.bethelhouseinc.org or call 262.473.2715.

UW-W Athletes Earn 11 Medals at Paralympics

September 9, 2024
Photos courtesy of the USOPC

Warhawk Bold meets Paralympic Gold

By Chris Lindeke
Marketing and Communications Manager
University Marketing and Communications

Seven current or former members of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater men’s and women’s wheelchair basketball programs won gold medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, continuing a strong tradition of Warhawk success on the sport’s international stage.

Jake Williams dribbles against Team Great Britain in the men’s wheelchair basketball gold medal game at the 2024 Paris Paralympics on Sept. 7, 2024. He led the Team USA men in scoring to lead the team to a 73-69 victory. (Photo courtesy of Joe Kusumoto/USOPC)
 

John Boie, AJ Fitzpatrick, Nate Hinze, Talen Jourdan, Jeromie Meyer and Jake Williams were each part of the Team USA men, who defeated Great Britain 73-69 in the championship game to finish an undefeated run through the tournament and clinch the team’s third consecutive Paralympic title.

Hinze and Williams are now three-time gold medalists in the Paralympics. Williams led Team USA with a game-high 26 points in the gold medal victory. Boie, a member of the starting lineup with Williams, earned his second gold medal.

Fitzpatrick, a current human performance major at UW-Whitewater, Jourdan, and Meyer claimed their first gold medals competing in their first Paralympic Games.

The performance capped an incredible run through the sport for several Warhawks over the last 12 months. Williams, Fitzpatrick and Jourdan were each part of the Warhawks’ 2024 National Wheelchair Basketball Association intercollegiate national championship in March. Boie and Meyer joined the trio on the gold medal-winning Team USA at the 2023 Parapan Games last November.

Mariska Beijer, at right, defends a shot attempt against Team USA in the women’s wheelchair basketball gold medal game at the 2024 Paris Paralympics on Sept. 8, 2024. Beijer earned her fourth career medal — and second gold — by helping Team Netherlands to a 73-59 win. (Photo courtesy of Mark Reis/USOPC)

Warhawk alum Mariska Beijer became a two-time gold medalist after leading the Team Netherlands women to a second consecutive first-place finish. One of the world’s top players, Beijer tallied 22 points and 10 rebounds in the Dutch’s 63-49 win against Team USA in the gold medal game.

Head coach Christina Schwab celebrates with Lindsey Zurbrugg following the US women’s 50-7 win over China in Wheelchair Basketball competition at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games September 6, 2024. Photo by Mark Reis, USOPC.

Warhawk silver medalists included those who were part of the Team USA women — Becca Murray, Lindsey Zurbrugg, coach Christina Schwab and assistant coach Desiree Miller. Murray is now a four-time Paralympics medalist, and Zurbrugg is a two-time medalist. Schwab, the former UW-Whitewater women’s coach who currently works in the First Year Experience office, was a three-time gold medalist as a player in 2004, 2008 and 2016, and now a first-time medalist as the national team’s coach.

Other Warhawk alumni who competed at the Paralympic Games include Sammy White, whose Team Australia men finished fifth, and Vanessa Erskine and Mareike (Adermann) Miller, who helped the Team Germany women place sixth.

UW-Whitewater’s wheelchair basketball programs were highlighted in a feature by The Athletic, the sports vertical of The New York Times, in late August just ahead of the start of the Paralympic Games. The piece was published online before appearing in the August 30 print edition of the Times.

UW-Whitewater’s eight current or former student-athletes who represented Team USA in wheelchair basketball were more than any other school in the country.

University/Community Free Lunch Starts this Tues.

September 9, 2024

New Artist in TeaLux Cafe

September 8, 2024

New artist in The TeaLux Cafe Gallery! Terry Fair.

Awesome poster collages from Terry’s radio show!

They will hang there until October 31st, so go grab a tasty tea and check them out!!

Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Rhonda Kolander.

Quilts for Lutheran World Relief

September 8, 2024

The women of First English Lutheran Church produce quilts annually to ship to Lutheran World Relief for distribution to people in need.  The women use recycled and donated fabric to make the quilts.  They accept donations and will always appreciate volunteer sewing and cutting helpers.  This work is an expression of their faith and love for all people.  The church also donates and assembles school bags, health kits, and layettes for Lutheran World Relief.

Front L to R     Linda Meyer, Joan Polglaze
Back L to R     Diane Carlson, Mary Salverson, Lynn Coyle, Nancy Wendt
Photos courtesy of Tom Ganser


This Week’s City Meetings

September 8, 2024

City of Whitewater Plan & Architectural Review – Monday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible approval of a Conditional Use Permit and Site Plan Review for a
multifamily development located on vacant land at the corner of Moraine View Parkway and Jakes Way Tax Parcel # /WPB 00044, and Consideration to Approve to Recommend to Common Council a change to the City of Whitewater Municipal Code Chapter 19, Specifically Repeal Section 19.51.180 Truck, Trailer, Mobile Home and Equipment Parking Restrictions
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 join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/873079909
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 873-079-909
United States: +1 (872) 240-3412
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install

City of Whitewater Public Works Committee – Tuesday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and Possible Action regarding closing Starin Road between Prairie Street and
Warhawk Drive to vehicular traffic, Discussion and Possible Action regarding the turning movement at the southeast corner
of Franklin Street and W. Main Street.
Cravath Lakefront Room, 2nd floor 312 W. 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 the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81945735692?pwd=zp6T5k5HMqLJOpEtIoexzA40gdFvoy.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799
Webinar ID: 819 4573 5692
Passcode: 606698

Community Involvement and Cable TV Commission – Tuesday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda includes review of content on channel 990.
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 join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/378277861
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 378-277-861
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 Special Lakes Advisory Committee – Wednesday @ 4:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible action on Together for Healthy Lakes Summit- October 2, 2024
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater Str
*In Person and Virtual
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87461454456?pwd=AyjYBbEOxwOywAd2jfejtRIQsaUvWh.1
Meeting ID: 874 6145 4456
Passcode: 670236
Or Dial 1 312 626 6799

Special Finance Committee Meeting – Wednesday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda: Discussion on Employee Health Insurance Options
Whitewater Municipal Building City Manager’s Conference 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 the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87117022791
The phone number for dial-in participation has not yet been provided.

    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