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WHITEWATER WEATHER

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City of Whitewater Recognized as Gold Level Family Friendly Workplace

March 27, 2026


The City of Whitewater has been recognized as a Gold Level Family Friendly Workplace by Family Friendly Workplaces, a Wisconsin-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing employer policies that support working families.

Family Friendly Workplaces prioritizes strengthening benefits available to families across western Wisconsin, with a particular focus on early childhood development and family time. Research consistently shows that high-quality early childhood experiences and strong family bonding lead to meaningful, long-term outcomes, including improved academic performance, stronger communication skills, reduced risky behaviors among youth, lower likelihood of chronic disease in adulthood, and increased lifetime earnings.

Employers play a critical role in supporting these outcomes through workplace policies and benefits. To encourage adoption of family-centered practices, Family Friendly Workplaces places significant emphasis on early childhood support and time-off policies within its Certification Matrix.

The City of Whitewater earned Gold Level certification due to its strong commitment to employee well-being. The City qualified for this recognition through its comprehensive health care options, flexible work schedule, and a bring-an-infant-to-work policy. These benefits are designed to help employees successfully balance professional and family responsibilities.

“This recognition reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to supporting our workforce and fostering a healthy work-life balance,” said Sara Marquardt, HR Manager. “We understand that when employees are supported at home, they are better able to serve our community.”

The City plans to leverage this designation in recruitment and outreach efforts, reinforcing Whitewater’s position as an employer of choice in the region.

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

St. Coletta Special Olympics Bests Whitewater High School Boys Team

March 26, 2026

Thanks to Coach Michael McCabe and special shout-out to Activities and Athletics Director Mike Dowden who helped make it happen! The Whippets graciously hosted the St. Coletta Special Olympics basketball team Wednesday afternoon. St. Coletta won the game to finish their season on a great note. Congrats to Mike, Thomas, Caleb, Candace, Cody, and Eric from St. Coletta and Matthew and Tyler Carollo, Connor Brummeyer, Evan Amundson, Casey Lyon, and Emmett Spear from the WWHS team. Coach Joe Carollo, who coached for both of these teams this year, organized the event with the help of St. Coletta’s Celia Villanueva and Amy Eicksteadt. Great experience for all involved!

Holy Week 2026: Journey With Us to the Empty Tomb

March 26, 2026


Journey With Us to the Empty Tomb
Immanuel Anglican Church

You are welcome to join us for these rich and beautiful worship gatherings as we enter into the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus once again. These are beautiful, historic church services that draw on all of Scripture and lead us on a journey to the empty tomb. All are welcome!

Palm Sunday | March 29 | 9am

Maundy Thursday | April 2 | 5:30pm

Good Friday | April 3
12pm Stations of the Cross Service (Open house until 4:30pm)
5:30pm Good Friday Liturgy

Holy Saturday | April 4
3:30pm Easter Egg Hunt (Outside, behind the Community Engagement Center)
5:30pm The Great Vigil of Easter

Easter Sunday | April 5
6:15am Sunrise Service
9am Festival Easter Eucharist

Location: All Holy Week events will be held at the Community Engagement Center in the Multipurpose Room, unless otherwise noted: 1260 W Main St, Whitewater, WI 53190

Parking: Please park in the rear of the building. (See map on our events page: https://immanuelwhitewater.church/what-were-up-to/)

For more information, please feel free to contact us at immanuelwhitewater@gmail.com or visit our website at https://immanuelwhitewater.church/. We look forward to meeting you!

Kiwanis Easter Lily Delivery Delayed – Ordering Still Available

March 26, 2026


The long-standing tradition of the Whitewater Kiwanis Club’s efforts at delivering hundreds of Easter lilies in advance of Holy Week has run into a minor snag this year as the supplier has experienced delivery delays. Normally Kiwanis members will have completed delivery to businesses and homes by Friday afternoon. It is looking like
delivery may be extended over the weekend and possibly Monday.

Funds raised through this and other Kiwanis fundraising efforts support children locally and worldwide. Local Kiwanis funded efforts include scholarships, playground equipment like the recently installed accessible “We-Go-Round” at Starin Park, support of youth sports and Ferradermis Robotics, providing kids winter clothing, support of various community organizations and much more.

Each florist quality Kiwanis lily has a minimum of five flowers in a 6” pot with a protective sleeve. A contribution of $20 per plant is desired. Delivery is included to area businesses and homes. A limited number of plants are still available and can be ordered by calling Al Stanek at 608 320-9781. Cash or checks upon delivery are accepted.

Aquatic & Fitness Center to Host Aquatic Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday

March 25, 2026

Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center to Host Aquatic Easter Egg Hunt on March 28

Families in the Whitewater community are invited to celebrate the season at the Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center’s Aquatic Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the facility located at 508 S. Elizabeth Street.

This family-friendly event will feature egg hunts, prizes, and opportunities for photos with the Easter Bunny, creating a fun and memorable experience for children of all ages.

Each participant will receive a gift bag, and those who find a special golden egg will receive Aquatic and Fitness Center membership prizes.

Participants will be grouped by age to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone:
 Ages 2–5: 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM
 Ages 5–8: 10:45 AM – 11:15 AM
 Ages 8–12: 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM

The cost to participate is $5 per child, which also includes open swim admission after 12:00 PM, allowing families to extend their day of fun at the Aquatic Center. In addition, $5 day passes will be available for all attendees, making it easy for families and spectators to enjoy the facility throughout the day.

Advance registration is preferred, though participants may also pay at the door on the day of the event.
To register online, visit www.wwparks.org or contact the Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center at (262) 473-4900.

“This event is a great way for families to come together, celebrate spring, and enjoy everything our Aquatic and Fitness Center has to offer,” said Kevin Boehm, Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities. “We look forward to welcoming the community for a morning full of fun and excitement.”

For additional information, please contact the Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center at (262) 473-4900
or visit the City of Whitewater Parks and Recreation Department online.

Brewers Home Opener May be Viewed Without a $99 Subscription!

March 25, 2026

The Milwaukee Brewers first home game is on Thursday, March 26 at 1:10 p.m. Jacob Misiorowski, age 23, is the starting pitcher vs. the Chicago White Sox. Olympic skater Jordan Stolz will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. The series continues on Saturday at 6:10 p.m. and on Sunday at 1:10 p.m. There had been speculation that we wouldn’t be able to watch the Brewers without paying for a $99/season MLB.TV subscription. Fortunately, it appears that at least most of the games will be accessible to non-subscribing fans.

FOX6 WITI Milwaukee will be carrying the game.

As per the following announcement, TDS will also be carrying the game on a separate channel. The Banner has not seen an announcement regarding Spectrum, but it is assumed that their viewers will be able to watch on FOX6.

TDS Telecom to offer Milwaukee Brewers baseball on TDS TV+

TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS®) is excited to announce that it is carrying Major League Baseball again this season on its television platform TDS TV®+, including Milwaukee Brewers games for Wisconsin customers.

The company has reached an agreement with MLB to carry Brewers.TV, which will be available on Channel 243 for residents in the Milwaukee, Madison, Wausau, Green Bay, and La Crosse media markets. For customers in the Eau Claire area, Brewers.TV will be Channel 242.

Brewers.TV will be available in the TDS TV+ Explore, Journey, and Voyage packages ahead of the team’s Opening Day game at 1:10 p.m. Thursday, March 26. For more information and to subscribe, customers should visit tdstelecom.com/tv.

“TDS is committed to offering live sports, and with another baseball season upon us, we’re thrilled to again offer Major League Baseball on TDS TV+,” said Meghan Corcoran, TDS Vice President of Marketing and Product Development. “As a Wisconsin-based company, we’re especially excited to carry our home state Milwaukee Brewers. Sports fans should make sure to subscribe to TDS TV+ and follow the teams you love all season long.”

TDS’ new agreement comes after the Brewers and other teams terminated contracts with FanDuel Sports Network. In addition to the Brewers, TDS also reached agreements with MLB to carry the Cincinnati Reds and Seattle Mariners in the respective local markets where TDS offers services.

With TDS TV+, customers get a variety of local and national networks, integration with popular streaming services, the ability to start shows over, and cloud DVR. TDS also continues working to upgrade and expand its high-speed, all-fiber internet network throughout its service area. For more information, visit tdstelecom.com.

WHS Ferradermis Robotics Open House Had a Great Turnout

March 25, 2026

The Ferradermis Robotics Open House on February 14 at the high school enjoyed a great turnout as Ferradermis members gave personal tours of their space and projects. The students spoke enthusiastically about the upcoming renovation/expansion project which will provide them with more space, including a full-size field as is used in their competitions. Photos courtesy of Tom Ganser.

Second Spring Hunter Safety Education Course Offered

March 25, 2026

Sheriff Fell is pleased to announce that the Rock County Sheriff’s Office will offer our next 2026 Hunter Safety Education Course on May 2, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., and May 3, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., at the Edgerton Conservation Club, 900 Stoughton Road, Edgerton, WI 53534. There will be an in-person introductory session on April 22, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., at the Rock County Sheriff’s Office, 200 East U.S. Highway 14, Janesville, WI 53545. Students need to attend all sessions to graduate. Anyone born on or after January 1, 1973, is required to complete a Hunter Safety Education Course to legally hunt in Wisconsin. Students must be at least 12 years of age.

Hunter Safety Education Course

Session 1: April 22, from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. @ Rock County Sheriff’s Office
Session 2: May 2, from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. @ Edgerton Conservation Club
Session 3: May 3, from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. @ Edgerton Conservation Club

Registration is now open. Complete the online enrollment form to reserve a seat.
https://www.co.rock.wi.us/departments/sheriff-s-office/recreational-patrol/hunter-education

Class size is limited to thirty (30) students. Upon submission of the registration form, the submitter will see an onscreen confirmation message with course information. The course fee of $10 per student will be collected at the first session. If the student is under 18 years old, a parent/guardian will need to attend the first session with the student. Students will receive course materials at the first session. Please direct any questions to Deputy Michael Borgwardt at michael.borgwardt@co.rock.wi.us.

Editor’s note: It is not necessary to be a Rock County resident in order to participate in these classes.

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