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By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@lauramasbruch
The trial of a former UW-Whitewater wrestler who was in a relationship with UW-W gymnast Kara Welsh when she was killed on August 30, 2024 has been postponed for a second time, per online records. The trial of Chad Richards, now age 24, was originally scheduled for December 2025. Last summer a judge pushed the trial back to June 9, 2026, but last week the trial was pushed back again. The trial is now scheduled to begin on November 30. Circuit Court Judge Estee Scholtz has reserved up to eleven days for selection of a 12-person jury and trial. Richards continues to be held in the Walworth County jail under a $1 million cash bond.
At the status conference on May 29, 2026, defense attorney Joshua Hargrove made a record “as to the volume of discovery and believes it to be about 1500 pages printed and that the other report is nearly 3x that size.”
The original Banner story identifying Richards as the defendant in the first-degree intentional homicide case may be viewed here. A criminal complaint alleges he shot Welsh, 21, eight times. Richards allegedly claimed to police that Welsh grabbed the gun first and he took it away from her, then shot her because he feared for his life. Richards called 911 after the shooting. If convicted he would likely serve life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Dear WHS Band Alumni,
For the 28th year, we will be putting together an alumni band for the July 4 parade. If you’re going to be in this part of the country for the holiday, please consider joining us! I know that some of you have been playing professionally while others haven’t touched it since graduation – ALL are welcome! Instrument loans are available [IF you let me know right away!!] as are fingering charts! No marching is involved; we’ll be sitting on a flatbed truck!
There will be no rehearsal, but if you want to see the music ahead of time, I can email scans to you. Our “uniform” for the parade consists of ANY WHS Band T-shirt. (I just happen to have some pretty nifty WHS Band shirts still available at the low price of $5). Or just wear something red.
The parade starts at 10 AM, the normal time. We’ll plan to meet at Lincoln Elementary School (Prince St. between Highland and Walworth) around that time although we will be near the end of the parade. Do not attempt to drive up Prince Street that morning; best bet for close parking is in the Middle School (old HS) lot off Elizabeth Street. Drummers talk to me about the best way to get your equipment onto the truck.
For added incentive, there will be the traditional gathering at the beer tent after the parade. (OK, soda for you recent alumni).
PLEASE LET ME KNOW ASAP IF YOU’RE COMING so I know how many chairs, stands & copies of music we need. Also, please forward this to any other WHS Band Alumni you know from any decade, right up to the class of 2026 – my list of email addresses is far from complete.
Hope to see you there!
With the current construction at WHS, logistics will be different this year – stay tuned!
Dr Don W Deal [WHS Band Director 1979-2012 and again in 2020]
University of Dubuque Spring Semester 2026 Academic Dean’s List
DUBUQUE, Iowa – The University of Dubuque congratulates the following students on being appointed to the Spring Semester 2026 Academic Dean’s List.
Full-time students in good academic standing (registered for and having earned 12 or more letter grade credits for the term) who earn a term grade point average of 3.5 or above and who do not have any grades of Incomplete for the term are named to the Dean’s List. Once grades have been submitted for any Incompletes, the Office of Academic Affairs will review eligibility again for possible placement on the Dean’s List for the given term.
Dean’s List is awarded for the fall and spring semesters only and may be awarded retroactively.
About the University of Dubuque
The University of Dubuque (UD) is a private, coed university founded in 1852 that offers undergraduate, graduate, and theological seminary degrees as well as other educational opportunities with the intention of educating and forming the whole person. Here, the value of an education is measured in helping our students find their calling in life through academics, community, character, vocation, and stewardship. Our approach to learning is based on professional programs with a liberal arts core, and we prepare students to find their purpose and make meaningful contributions to the world. https://www.dbq.edu/
Whitewater, WI
Halee Peters
Lucille Troxel
Competing in McFarland at the WIAA Track and Field Sectional on Friday in perfect conditions, the Whippets had a strong day that included several PRs and two state qualifiers.
The day started with Langdon Coburn in the pole vault. Having a superb day on the runway, he blew right past his previous best and the school record he set on Tuesday, clearing 14’6″ on his second attempt. When the bar moved to 15 feet, he had three strong attempts but was unable to clear it, along with Cole Kiefenheim from Winnebago Lutheran. Due to clearing 14’6″ on his second attempt while his competitor needed three attempts, Langdon won the sectional title on fewer misses and punched his ticket to state. This will be Langdon’s first trip to LaCrosse as a competitor.
Next up were Sydney Schilt and Emery Kachel in the 100-meter prelims. Emery competed in heat one and ran her best when it counted, posting a season-best time of 13.15. Running 12.62 in the prelims, Sydney found herself seeded fifth entering the finals. After about a 25-minute break, the 100-meter final was back on the track. Staying cool, calm, and collected, she stormed down the track like a lightning bolt and finished runner-up with a time of 12.42. Her time is now the third-fastest ever run by a Whippet in the event, passing Jane Bailey’s 12.54 from 1977.
Virginia Nelson was next on the track in the 1600. With a bold race strategy in mind, she went for it and came away with a new lifetime PR of 5:39.11. The performance was a nine-second personal best as she placed 11th overall.
Emery Kachel appeared again in the 400-meter dash, running in heat two. Competing in a strong, savvy race, she finished just .18 seconds off her lifetime best with a time of 61.67 and was one spot short of state qualification, placing fifth overall. Emery has grown tremendously in this event, and her performance at this level of competition is indicative of that growth.
Tyler Carollo made his sectional debut in the 1600 as a freshman and gained valuable experience while also earning a few more days of training and seeing what the next level looks like. Tyler finished 16th with his second-best time of the season at 5:05.62. Within a 72-hour period, Tyler ran his lifetime best to qualify and then followed it up with his second-best performance of the year. A very solid freshman season.
Next up were Ty Bucholtz and Cason Boudreau in the 300-meter hurdles. Cason competed in heat one and, much like Tyler, gained incredible experience competing at sectionals as a freshman. Running to a lifetime best on the day, Cason stopped the clock at 43.48 and placed 15th. A tremendous freshman campaign. Ty competed in heat two and, although he did not have the race he was hoping for, still finished with the second-best time of his career at 41.91 and placed ninth overall.
Sydney Schilt was back on the track again as she stepped into the blocks for the second heat of the 200-meter dash. Absolutely slinging off the curve, Sydney looked strong down the home stretch as she finished third overall with a new personal best of 25.41. This not only punched her ticket to the state meet in another event, but also moved her ahead of Maddie Buehler on the all-time top-10 list for another top-three mark in Whippet track and field history.
Ty Bucholtz had little time to rest after his 300H race as he doubled back in the 200. As he came out of the blocks, he competed well in his heat and stopped the clock in 23.55, nearly beating his lifetime best in the event. He placed 12th overall.
Virginia returned in the 3200 to run the distance double for the first time in her young sophomore career. Looking to set two new personal bests on the day, she accomplished just that as she closed in 1:24 on her final lap to finish 15th with a new lifetime best of 12:52.91, a seven-second PR. Advancing in one event last year to the sectional meet and now doubling while running lifetime bests in both events is a strong sign of growth.
To wrap up the evening, the girls’ 4×400 relay team of Emery Kachel, Emma Maas, Emy Islas, and Sydney Schilt gave it everything they had. The relay battled throughout all four legs and ran a season-best time of 4:12.85, improving by more than two seconds from Tuesday’s regional performance. The group placed sixth overall. This relay is the fastest girls’ 4×400 team the program has seen in several years and restored the excitement that this event brings to the sport of track and field.
Langdon and Sydney will compete at the WIAA State Meet on Friday, June 5, at UW-La Crosse. Division 2 competition will take place during the second session, with Langdon competing on Friday in the pole vault and Sydney running prelims in both the 100 and 200-meter dashes, looking to earn a spot in Saturday’s finals on June 6.
Full sectional results: https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/667518/results/all
Article and Photos Submitted by WHS Track Staff
| The Young Performing Arts Center Announces a Thrilling 2026–2027 Season |
| The Young Performing Arts Center is proud to unveil its 2026–2027 season, a dynamic lineup packed with legendary music, electrifying entertainment, family favorites, and unforgettable live experiences. From the iconic songs of Billy Joel, Elton John, Pink Floyd, the Eagles, and The BoDeans to world-class comedy, magic, acrobatics, Broadway sensations, and beloved family productions, this season offers something for audiences of every age and interest. “Our 26/27 season represents our commitment to serving the region with high quality, diverse, and meaningful live experiences. We wanted this season to feel exciting from top to bottom…the kind of lineup where audiences circle multiple events on the calendar the moment they see it. Whether you love music, comedy, family, or Broadway experiences, we believe there is truly something here for everyone.” – Mike Stefiuk, Executive Director of The Young Performing Arts Center For more information about the 26-27 Season and to purchase tickets, please visit TheYoungWhitewater.com or contact the box office at 262-472-2222. |
| SEASON HIGHLIGHTS Michael Cavanaugh: The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John – October 16, 2026 @ 7 P.M. The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John, starring Tony- and Grammy-nominated performer Michael Cavanaugh, as he brings the legendary hits and electrifying piano rock of Billy Joel and Elton John to life in an unforgettable high-energy performance. Wheel of Fortune Live – October 21, 2026 @ 7 P.M. Get ready for nonstop excitement as Wheel of Fortune LIVE! – America’s Game® comes to Whitewater, where audience members can spin the iconic Wheel for chances to win dream trips, cash prizes up to $10,000, and unforgettable fun! PUSH Physical Theatre – October 22, 2026 @ 7 P.M. Experience the breathtaking artistry of PUSH Physical Theatre as their award-winning performers combine intense athleticism, gravity-defying acrobatics, and powerful storytelling in an unforgettable evening that captures the joy, humor, heartbreak, and resilience of the human spirit. The BoDeans – October 24, 2026 @ 7 P.M. In 2026, BoDeans celebrate the 40th anniversary of Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams with special shows spanning five decades—get your tickets now and don’t miss it! The Machine Performs Pink Floyd – October 30, 2026 @ 7 P.M. The Machine brings the legendary music of Pink Floyd to life with stunning musicianship, theatrical stage production, and faithful performances of classic hits and deep cuts that have captivated audiences around the world for more than 40 years. Hotel California: The Original Eagles Tribute – November 7, 2026 @ 7 P.M. Hotel California delivers an electrifying tribute to Eagles with authentic harmonies, iconic hits, and a dynamic stage show that faithfully recreates the timeless Grammy-winning sound fans know and love. Hannibal Buress – November 14, 2026 @ 7 P.M. Hannibal Buress is an acclaimed comedian, writer, and actor known for his sharp stand-up specials, memorable film and television roles, and appearances on iconic shows including Saturday Night Live and Broad City. Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland – November 21, 2026 @ 7 P.M. Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland is a breathtaking family holiday tradition that combines world-class circus performers, dazzling acrobatics, and timeless seasonal music into an unforgettable evening of festive entertainment. Colin & Brad: Asking for Trouble – February 25, 2027 @ 7 P.M. Get ready for nonstop laughter as improv legends Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood bring their hit live show Asking for Trouble to the stage with fast-paced, audience-driven comedy inspired by their work on Whose Line Is It Anyway?. Bill Blagg Family Magic – March 6, 2027 @ 2 P.M. Experience nonstop laughs, audience interaction, and jaw-dropping illusions as magician Bill Blagg brings his hit Family Magic show to the stage for an unforgettable all-ages adventure filled with comedy and mind-blowing fun. The Wailin’ Jennys – April 8, 2027 @ 7 P.M. The Wailin’ Jennys have evolved from a one-time collaboration into one of the world’s most beloved folk acts, captivating audiences with their acclaimed recordings, stunning harmonies, and unforgettable live performances. Wizard of Oz On Ice – April 12, 2027 @ 7 P.M. The Wizard of Oz On Ice transforms the beloved classic into a dazzling live spectacle featuring champion skaters, breathtaking choreography, stunning visuals, and magical storytelling for audiences of all ages. Voctave – April 15, 2027 @ 7 P.M. Voctave is an internationally acclaimed 11-member a cappella ensemble celebrated for its breathtaking vocal arrangements, chart-topping recordings, and captivating performances that have earned millions of fans worldwide. Book of Mormon – May 5, 2027 @ 7 P.M. The Book of Mormon is the wildly acclaimed, nine-time Tony Award®-winning musical comedy that has become an international sensation with its outrageous humor, unforgettable songs, and hilarious story of two mismatched missionaries on a life-changing adventure. Care Bears Live – May 8, 2027 @ 2 P.M. Care Bears Live! brings the colorful world of Care-a-Lot to life with beloved characters, uplifting music, dazzling visuals, and interactive fun that celebrates kindness, caring, and connection for audiences of all ages. |
| The Young serves as a presenting organization for the performing arts and as an educational and cultural center enriching the lives of regional communities. Tickets for any show can be purchased online at TheYoungWhitewater.com, by calling the Box Office at (262) 472-2222, or in person. Ticket Services is located in the atrium of the Greenhill Center of the Arts, 950 West Main Street, Whitewater, and is open Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m when classes are in session. The Young is located at 930 West Main Street, Whitewater, WI 53190. To learn more, visit TheYoungWhitewater.com. |
The Whitewater Public Library has a full calendar of free events for all ages in June! Some events require registration; please check the library’s calendar in advance at whitewaterlibrary.org/events to register and for more information. In addition, the library’s Summer Reading Program runs from June 8-July 31. Read books, win prizes!
Events for all ages:
Yo-Yo Guy Mark Hayward: Monday, 6/8 at 4:00 p.m.
Books & Blooms: Fridays, 6/5, 6/12, 6/19 at 3:30 p.m.
Born Learning Trail Meetup: Tuesday, 6/16 at 9:30 a.m.
Super Smash Bros Tournament: Wednesday, 6/17 at 3:00 p.m.
Family Jams: Saturday, 6/20 at 10:30 a.m.
Nostalgia Night-1970s: Monday, 6/22 at 5:30 p.m.
Land Ho! A Sea Shanty Music & Movement Adventure: Monday, 6/29 at 4:00 p.m.
Events for children:
Patriotic Star take & make craft starting on Monday, 6/1
Storytime: Wednesdays, 6/10, 6/17, 6/24 at 9:30 a.m.
Unlazy River: Thursday, 6/11 at 3:30 p.m.
Make Your Own Play-Doh: Monday, 6/15 at 4:00 p.m.
Seed Art: Thursday, 6/18 at 3:30 p.m.
Dino-Rama: Thursday, 6/25 at 3:30 p.m.
Events for teens:
Teen Karaoke: Tuesday, 6/9 at 3:00 p.m.
Dungeons & Dragons: Wednesday, 6/10 at 1:00 p.m.
Terrariums: Tuesday, 6/16 at 3:00 p.m.
Artist Trading Cards: Tuesday, 6/23 at 3:00 p.m.
Bling a Book Cover: Tuesday, 6/30 at 3:00 p.m.
Events for adults and teens:
Magic the Gathering Draft Tournament: Monday, 6/8 at 5:30 p.m.
Intro to Dungeons & Dragons: Tuesday, 6/9 at 5:30 p.m.
Fiber Friday: 6/12 at 5:00 p.m.
Makerspace 101-3D Printing: Tuesday, 6/16 at 6:00 p.m.
Makerspace 101-Cricut Maker: Tuesday, 6/23 at 6:00 p.m.
Events for adults:
Nurture Your Energy: Guided Journaling & Tarot: Thursday, 6/11 at 6:00 p.m.
TED Founding Futures Livestream: Saturday, 6/13 at 12:00 p.m.
The Tactics of Writing a Horror Story: Thursday, 6/18 at 5:00 p.m.
Pollinators and Your Garden: Thursday, 6/25 at 5:30 p.m.
Adult Dungeons & Dragons: Friday, 6/26 at 4:00 p.m.
Details about all events can be found on the library’s website at whitewaterlibrary.org/events. Some events require registration, which can also be done on the library’s website or by contacting the library. All library programs are always free and open to the public.
The Whitewater Public Library is located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater. For more information, visit whitewaterlibrary.org, email library@whitewater-wi.gov or call 262-473-0530.
Lois Mast captured this photo of a blue heron on the boardwalk at Trippe Lake.
Our thanks to Lois Mast for sharing this fascinating 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!
Obituaries
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
Leo E. Wurzer, 65, of Eagle, Wisconsin passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at his home. Leo was born on April 15, 1961 in Kenosha, Wisconsin to Cyril and Shirley (McNeil) Wurzer. He grew up between Pleasant Prairie and Antigo, spending his childhood summers on his uncle’s farm where he discovered his love for all things tractors. Although he never had a farm of his own, he was able to partially fulfill his dream by working as a driver for Robin’s Trucking in Whitewater, WI in his last days and collecting miniature Tonka toys. He began his career … Read more
Lois Cummings, 99, of Fond du Lac, WI (formerly of Janesville, WI, Fort Atkinson, WI, Fountain Hills, AZ, and Green Valley, AZ) passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026 at the Meadows Senior Residence in Fond du Lac surrounded by family. Lois was born on February 17, 1927 in Fort Atkinson to Edward and Clarice (Roseth) Stevens. The middle child of 9 children, she attended Fort Atkinson schools and graduated in 1944. On September 11, 1948 Lois married Grant Cummings at Saint Andrew Catholic Church in Delavan, WI. Together they had 3 children, Gary, Colleen (Tom) Sabel, and Patty (Paul) … Read more
Come celebrate William Kincaid’s Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 30th at 1 pm at Trippe Lake Park Pavillion in Whitewater. He truly enjoyed gatherings where his favorite foods and music could be enjoyed with some of his closest friends and family. We will honor him by carrying on one of his favorite traditions. Please bring your own beverages and chairs. There is limited seating. See you all there!
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