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Grace Chen, a fifth-grade student at Lincoln Elementary in Whitewater, has written and illustrated an original book entitled Dawn of a Day which has won a second place award in the State Delta Kappa Gamma Nettesheim Literary Competition for 2026. According to Grace her book, which she both wrote and illustrated, “is the story of the peacefulness of the forest when the animals arise.” She completed her project while attending the Book Buddies program. From there, Grace’s book was submitted for judging at the local and then the state levels of Delta Kappa Gamma.
Delta Kappa Gamma Society International promotes professional and personal growth of women educators and excellence in education. Whitewater has a local chapter which supports this literary competition and other projects enhancing education in the community.
Editor’s note: This article was submitted by Barbara Penington.
Rock River Community Clinic Opens Johnson Creek Clinic
Rock River Community Clinic (RRCC) is pleased to announce the opening of its new dental clinic, located on the first floor of the newly renovated Fort HealthCare Johnson Creek Clinic. After more than two decades of providing dental services at the Fort HealthCare Handeyside Clinic, this transition marks a significant step forward in expanding access to dental care in Jefferson County. The clinic will officially begin serving patients on Monday, March 30, 2026.
“The move to Johnson Creek allows us to maintain and expand access to dental care for our community,” said Dr. Olivia Nichols, CEO/Executive Director of Rock River Community Clinic. “As the only Medicaid dental provider in the greater Jefferson County area, we are grateful for the outpouring of support to make this possible.”
In the next few months, RRCC will be adding medical and behavioral health services to the Johnson Creek Clinic. By integrating patient services, RRCC will minimize overhead costs and maximize patient access to affordable services. The Johnson Creek clinic was made possible through the generous support of major donors, including Jones Dairy Farm, Fort Community Credit Union, First Citizens State Bank, the Otto Bremer Trust Foundation, Roots & Wings, the Fort Atkinson Community Foundation, and Delta Dental. Ongoing support from Fort HealthCare, the Greater Watertown Community Foundation, and Watertown Regional Medical Center was also crucial to the project’s success.
“With medical, dental, and behavioral health care under one roof, we reduce barriers to accessing care and improve patient health outcomes through integrated care,” states Dr. Nichols. “This expansion will aid us – the collective greater Jefferson County region – in reducing health disparities.”
As part of its capital campaign, RRCC also secured funding to relocate its Watertown clinic and renovate its Whitewater clinic. The Whitewater expansion will utilize the previously vacant lower suite for administrative offices, creating additional space to support the continued growth of medical services. By late summer, RRCC plans to transform the Watertown clinic into an outpatient, youth-focused behavioral health center.
In 2024, RRCC medical & dental clinics served 3,176 patients across 8,250 visits. In 2025, those numbers increased to 4,291 patients for a total of 12,417 visits across all clinic locations. With these expansions, RRCC projects serving 6,800 patients annually by 2028, totaling an estimated 23,000 visits.
RRCC will host a public open house in late summer, offering community members an opportunity to tour the clinic and learn more about RRCC’s mission to provide quality, comprehensive health care for all.
To learn how you can support Rock River Community Clinic, visit RockRiverCommunityClinic.com/support-us/, or contact Dr. Nichols at director@rockrivercommunityclinic.org or 262.472.6839.
Rock River Community Clinic (RRCC) is a community health center that provides comprehensive and cost-effective health care services to ensure all community members have access to the care they need.
At RRCC, all community members are welcome and accepted, regardless of ability to pay, with discounted prices for patients who are uninsured or underinsured (high deductible plans). RRCC also provides care coordination services to help patients overcome barriers to accessing healthcare (e.g., transportation), and helps to coordinate referrals. Bilingual staff (Spanish & English) are available to support patients and their families. By increasing access to health care services, offering care at affordable costs, and assisting with healthcare navigation, RRCC works to create a healthier, more equitable, community. For clinic hours and directions, visit www.rockrivercommunityclinic.org
NATIONALLY KNOWN DISNEY EXPERTS TO SPEAK AT UW-WHITEWATER
This spring, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater will host two nationally recognized Disney experts for on-campus events at the University Center. On April 9 at 6:00 p.m., Disney author and prominent podcaster Michael Bowling will speak about a variety of Disney business and creative greats, including Walt Disney and Roy Disney. Author and historian Todd James Pierce will speak on April 23 about the Sherman Brothers, the song-writing duo behind Mary Poppins and other classic Disney films. Both presentations are free and open to the public, but the university encourages advance registration.
Michael Bowling is a prominent Disney historian, author, and podcaster known for his deep expertise in the life and legacy of Walt Disney. Bowling is most recognized as the host of the “Connecting with Walt” podcast, which explores the historical connections between Walt Disney’s personal life, his business ventures, and the development of Disney theme parks and films. Bowling’s presentation, on Thursday, April 9 at 6:00 p.m., will focus on the career journey of several Disney Legends. Each Disney great’s career journey was a meandering one, often marked by hardships along the way before ultimately cementing Legend status.
Following Bowling’s presentation, there will be a meet-and-greet reception, with light appetizers, also open to the public. Register for the April 9 Michael Bowling event at this website: https://my.uww.edu/SignUp/Public/Register/17906
Two weeks later, on Thursday, April 23 at 6:00 p.m., scholar Todd James Pierce will speak on campus. Pierce is the author of such Disney histories as Making Mary Poppins: The Sherman Brothers, Walt Disney, and the Creation of a Classic Film and other books about the history of the Walt Disney Company and Disney Legends. Pierce will share stories of the Sherman brothers’ unusual career journeys. Each man’s journey was marked by career changes, and each moved away from early professional dreams. However, those changes ultimately helped them both quite a bit and eventually led them to Disney Legend status as the songwriting duo behind some of the most beloved showtunes of all time, not only for Mary Poppins, but other Disney classics such as The Jungle Book, Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and The Parent Trap. Pierce’s presentation will also be followed by a meet-and-greet with the author. That reception is also open to the public and will include light appetizers. Register for the April 23 Todd James Pierce event at this website: https://my.uww.edu/SignUp/Public/Register/17907
Both speakers are presented by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater office of Continuing Education. Many people are like the Sherman Brothers and do not always have a direct career path. Continuing Education has exceptional programs for everyone in their lifelong learning journey. Learners can strengthen their skills with affordable, high-quality workshops, classes and trainings designed for adults and professionals. Youth and teens develop their talents in fun programs led by award-winning coaches and staff. Special sessions and hands-on learning opportunities help students stay on track to graduation.
City of Whitewater Public Test of Voting Machines – Monday @ 1:00 p.m.
City of Whitewater Municipal Building, 2nd floor Cravath Lakefront Conference Room, 312 W.
Whitewater St.
City of Whitewater Special Plan & Architectural Review Commission Meeting – Monday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda: Discussion regarding the conceptual plan for Lifetime Manufacturing, LLC to be located on
Innovation Drive.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI 53190
*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.
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/25470476485762?p=YdfFegw14nr8jKcToM
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,830535706# United States
Phone conference ID: 830 535 706#
Whitewater Public Library Board of Trustees – Monday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Library Building general update, and CLOSED SESSION, not to reconvene, performance evaluation for the library director.
Cravath Lakefront Conference Room
312 W Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI, 53190
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://us02web.zoom.us/j/85960263284?pwd=s9WCaxz4f92bcuGW4gbcQ9ijFc7iUD.1
Meeting ID: 859 6026 3284
Passcode: Mk9rwvHw
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Whitewater Aquatic & Fitness Center Committee – Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda includes tour of the center
Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center, Large Meeting Room 580 S. Elizabeth St. Whitewater, WI
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/23336223628734?p=DcwrDTHLMYHJ97aqgb
Please note that although every effort will be made to provide for virtual participation, unforeseen
technical difficulties may prevent this, in which case the meeting may still proceed as long as there is a
quorum. Should you wish to make a comment in this situation, you are welcome to call this number:
(262) 473-0108.
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone,
or telephone. Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Microsoft Teams meeting
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/23024647953882?p=0xWG70oJJ3JEQ1YW1K
Meeting ID: 230 246 479 538 82
Passcode: pa7ka3GW
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,717102861# United States
Phone conference ID: 717 102 861#
City of Whitewater Landmarks Commission – Wednesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and update regarding the status of the Whitewater Community Foundation
Account application for the Starin Park Water Tower.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater Str, Whitewater, WI, 53190
Wednesday, April 01, 2026 – 6:00 PM
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/25871725976972?p=Ef8wmtk6R27O2UAJMR
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,442154238# United States, New York City
Phone conference ID: 442 154 238#
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. Our last entry in historic Whitewater fires is one that occurred in 1969. This image of Whitewater Street shows, on the right side, the large mill and grain elevator known for much of the 20th century as the Dadmun Mill, just north of the railroad depot. It was built in the 19th century and served farmers until it burned in May of 1969. Many of the buildings on the left side of the photograph were razed for the Whitewater fire department building constructed in 1968, now the Municipal Building. With the demolition of the buildings for the fire department in 1968, the fire at the Dadmun Mill in 1969, and the big fire north of the Dadmun Mill (part of the old Winchester and Partridge factory) in 1976, this part of Whitewater Street changed dramatically in the late 20th century.
Step into the colorful, chaotic world of The Cat in the Hat Live – where Dr. Seuss’s timeless story leaps off the page and onto the stage! Since 2018, this vibrant family production has toured extensively through New Zealand and Australia, delighting audiences young and old. Now, the internationally loved show is bringing its magic to audiences across the United States. Get ready for a theatrical adventure full of fun, imagination, and laughter!
Adapted for the stage by the National Theatre of Great Britain in 2009, this faithful production brings to life the classic tale of Sally, her brother, and their overprotective pet Fish on a rainy afternoon – and, of course, the one and only Cat in the Hat. Complete with Thing One and Thing Two, expect a whirlwind of mischief, chaos, and creativity that celebrates the joy of imaginative play.
Running for approximately 50 minutes with no interval, this high-energy production is perfect for kids aged 3 and up – and anyone young at heart. Whether you’re introducing your little ones to this childhood favorite or reliving the magic yourself, Cat in the Hat Live is the perfect family theatre outing.
Pay What You Wish means exactly that!
Tickets may be purchased here.
At The Young Performing Arts Center, we’re committed to making the arts accessible to everyone, so for select performances, we’ve removed fixed ticket prices and invite you to contribute whatever feels right for your experience. It’s a great opportunity to explore something unique, exciting, and truly world-class—on your terms.
The Young Performing Arts Center is located at 930 W. Main Street, Whitewater, WI. Parking for this performance is free of charge in lots 1 and 2 off Prince Street north of Main Street. Lot 2 is generally the most convenient to the entrance.
“One, Two, Three”
Tuesday, March 31, 1 pm
(Satire/Screwball Comedy) Rated PG-13; 1 hour, 44 minutes (1961).
Our second annual April Fools’ Day Best Comedy Ever series continues with this Jimmy Cagney “tour de farce,” playing a frazzled Coca-Cola executive in West Berlin on the other side of the Iron Curtain in post war Germany. Stars Horst Buccholz, Pamela Tiffin, Arlene Francis and Red Buttons. Written/Directed by Billy Wilder (“Some Like it Hot,” “The Apartment,” “Sabrina,” “Sunset Boulevard.”).
Seniors in the Park is located in Starin Park, 504 W. Starin Road. Although there is no charge to attend, regular participants are encouraged to join Seniors in the Park. The annual fee for residents of the Whitewater Unified School District is $15 and non-residents is $20. The funds support about half of the cost of our front desk staff person for 15 hours per week. The rest comes out of our fundraising monies. If you cannot afford the fee, we have a fund that will cover it for you. Fees are accepted at the Starin Park Community Building or online at https://schedulesplus.com/wwtr/kiosk/
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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