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Today is Tuesday, June 23, 2026
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It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. Here is the second image of the band in the mid-20th century parade that was photographed coming down Main Street. This view shows the north side of Main Street very well, with the Strand Theater, the College Grill, and other businesses visible on this side of the street.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
3830P, Whitewater Historical Society
Warhawks celebrate late in the game against Hope Friday. (Michael Gouvion)
By Angela Kelm
Asst. Athletic Director for Sports Information
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater women’s basketball team defeated Hope College 72-61 in Kachel Gym to advance to the Elite 8 for the fifth time under Head Coach Keri Carollo. The Warhawks will host unbeaten Transylvania University Saturday, March 9 with tipoff slated for 7 p.m. and a ticket to the Final Four on the line.
Doors to Kachel Gym will open at 6 p.m. Tickets (cash only) can be purchased at the ticket window in the Williams Center near the gym entrance. No presale tickets will be available. Parking is free in the Williams Center or Perkins Stadium parking lots.
- $15 for adults
- $10 for students with a valid college ID, seniors and youth
- Free for children 3 years old and under
UWW got off to a good start for the third NCAA postseason game in a row. Late in the first, Aleah Grundahl converted on an offensive board and followed up the bucket with a steal that turned into a Katie Hildebrandt layup to give the Warhawks a 20-11 advantage. Hope made the final basket of the first quarter to cut the margin to seven.
UW-Whitewater dominated the second quarter shooting 62-percent (8-13) from the floor and 63-percent (5-8) from three-point range to widen the gap to 18, 41-23, by the intermission. Bri McCurdy and Kacie Carollo paced UWW with six points each – both knocked down a pair of threes in the period.
After an even third quarter, Hope put together a run in the fourth, but the Warhawks held them off. A 7-0 spurt early for HC narrowed the gap to 11, 61-50, with seven minutes left. UWW responded with a 9-2 run bolstered by seven points from Carollo to push the lead back to 19 with four left to play.
The margin fell to 10 with under a minute to go but Carollo sealed the game from the free throw line for the final.
A major advantage for UW-Whitewater Friday came on the glass as the Warhawks enjoyed a 41-27 sway in the rebound column.
Grundahl led the way with 25 points on 12-20 from the floor. She was a single rebound shy of a double-double while adding three assists and three steals. Carollo dropped in 19 with four assists in the game. Lunden Alexander knocked down three clutch triples to get the crowd going. She had 13 points off the bench for UWW.
Saturday’s Elite 8 matchup with Transylvania will be the first time the two teams meet. The Pioneers (30-0) hold the longest active win streak across all sports in NCAA competition with their 63rd consecutive win earlier Friday – a 63-58 victory over UW-Stout.
“Signs of Community” Art Exhibition Featuring Industrial Photography by Lance Thomas at Whitewater Cultural Arts Center Gallery
Whitewater Arts Alliance announces its current art exhibition, “Signs of Community,” showcasing the industrial photography of Lance Thomas. The exhibition will run from March 1-30, 2024, at the Whitewater Cultural Arts Center Gallery located at 402 West Main Street, Whitewater, WI, 53190.
Lance Thomas
Lance Thomas, a talented photographer with a passion for aging architecture and community narratives, brings his unique
perspective to life through his industrial artwork. Thomas embarked on his project journey in 2012, exploring the city of Milwaukee and capturing the essence of its urban landscapes. What started as a simple stroll evolved into a profound artistic exploration, where Thomas discovered that the beauty of a community lies in its simplest elements. “I set out to capture the essence of aging architecture and community bonds through my lens,” says Lance Thomas. “Incorporating salvaged and
reclaimed materials to frame my work adds depth and resonance to each piece, creating a powerful presentation that invites viewers to delve into the heart of each image.”
In 2019, Thomas expanded his project to include iconic buildings and signs in Whitewater, as he prepared for an exhibition at Roberta’s Art Gallery, located in the UW-W University Center, and participated in a collaborative art project installed at the University Center.
Returning to Whitewater for the “Signs of Community” exhibition at the Cultural Arts Center, Thomas is excited to share his latest works with the community. The Whitewater Arts Alliance, will hold an artist’s reception on Thursday, March 21, from 4-6 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Lance Thomas and engage with his thought-provoking artwork.
Please see this Banner post for information regarding the months-long art and rummage sale. Additionally, on March 21, from 12-6 p.m., the Whitewater Arts Alliance will offer special deals during their art and rummage sale, offering bargains on local artwork and unique treasures from their storage. Many Whitewater Arts Alliance artists have donated their work for the sale.
Kim Adams, Gallery Director for Whitewater Arts Alliance, invites art enthusiasts and community members to celebrate the arts and foster connections within the community. “Join us in exploring Lance Thomas’s remarkable industrial photography, as we come together to celebrate the arts and create a sense of community,” says Adams. Adams is hopeful that the rt sale will be a successful fundraiser for the Whitewater Arts Alliance.
For more information about the “Signs of Community” art exhibition and the upcoming art/rummage sale, please contact Kim Adams at 608-201-2151 or visit www.whitewaterarts.org.
It’s movie awards season and Seniors in the Park will be presenting many nominated and winning films over the coming months!
“Killers of the Flower Moon”
Tuesday, March 12, 12:30 p.m.
(Earlier starting time due to film’s length; 15 minute intermission midway).
(Drama/History) Rated R (profanity, violence)
3 hours, 26 minutes (2023).
When oil is discovered in 1920’s Oklahoma under Osage Nation land, the Native American Osage people are mysteriously murdered one-by-one until the newly formed FBI steps in to unravel the mystery. Nominated for 10 Oscars, including Best Picture, Director (Martin Scorsese), Actress (Lily Gladstone) and Actor (Robert DeNiro).
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 $10 and non-residents is $15. The funds support about half of the cost of our front desk staff person for 15 hours per week. The rest comes our 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/
Reminiscing about the past can be a powerful way to connect, offering comfort and joy for both persons with dementia and caregivers. Reminiscing is less about facts, names and dates than it is about re-experiencing feelings of happiness, comfort, and love. Here are some tips on how to reminisce effectively and sensitively.
Choose the Right Time: Pick a moment when your loved one seems most alert and open. Mornings are often a good time, but every individual is different.
Use Props to Spark Memories: Photos, music, familiar objects, or scents can act as powerful triggers for recalling memories. They can serve as a gentle prompt that encourages your loved one to share their stories. The aroma of baking cookies or cake can bring on pleasant memories, so don’t miss a chance to appreciate that moment together.
Be Patient and Receptive: Show genuine interest in their stories, even if they repeat themselves. Don’t insist they recall a name or date. Your attentiveness, patience and affection are much more important.
Follow Their Lead: Let them guide the conversation. If they steer towards a particular topic or era, follow their lead.
Avoid Correcting Errors: The goal is to enjoy the moment together, not to challenge inaccuracies. Remember, the emotional pleasure you both experience is more important than factual details.
Encourage Sensory Memories: Sometimes, talking about how things tasted, smelled, sounded, or felt can be easier than recalling specific events.
Use Open-Ended Questions: Phrases like “Tell me about…” or “What was it like when…” can encourage more detailed responses than yes/no questions.
Remember the goal of your time together is to create emotions of warmth, kindness and comfort. You may hear statements that are incorrect – one moment she has a daughter, the next she never had a daughter – but there is no need to correct the statement. Nobody likes to be corrected and you may inadvertently cause feelings of shame. Keep your goal in mind.
For more information on reminiscence benefits, click
This article submitted by Dementia Friendly Community Initiative, a program of Whitewater Seniors in the Park to help inform the community about dementia and to support patients and caregivers. New members are always welcome! Contact jfrench@whitewater-wi.gov or call Jennifer at 262 473 0535. More resources for caregivers:
https://www.co.walworth.wi.us/376/Aging-Disability-Resource-Center
Photos courtesy of Tom Ganser
Erika Svanoe
A WHS alum, who is a nationally known and respected composer, is returning to Whitewater for a performance of her recent symphony. The UW-Whitewater Symphonic Wind Ensemble will be performing Dr. Erika Svanoe’s Symphony in Blue and Gold on Sunday, March 10 at 3:00 p.m. in the Irvin L. Young Auditorium. Tickets are available online at https://www.uww.edu/youngauditorium/ticket-services/all-events or at the door. Adults are $7, those age 65+ or under age 18 are $4. There is a $2 surcharge for tickets purchased at the door.
Svanoe is a composer/conductor in the greater Twin Cities area. She has held academic appointments at Augsburg University in Minneapolis, Bemidji State University, and the University of New Hampshire. She is an active freelance composer, conductor, and clinician. She is also the creator of Marrying Mr. Darcy, the Pride & Prejudice card game.
Dr. Erika Svanoe (b. 1976) is a conductor and composer for wind band, known for her lyrical melodies, nods to classic literature, musical deconstruction, humor, and pastiche. Her works have been performed by “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, the United States Navy Band, and the National Concert Band of America, at venues such as the Midwest Clinic, the American Bandmasters Association National Conference, and the Boston New Music Festival. Her music has been featured on Wisconsin Public Radio, in Bandworld’s Top 100, and the Teaching Music Through Performance in Band series. Her first major work, The Haunted Carousel, won the 2014 NBA Young Band Composition Contest. Her first album, “The Music of Erika Svanoe,” was recorded by Andrew Boysen, Jr. and the University of New Hampshire Wind Symphony, and released in 2022.
The Dementia Friendly Community Initiative, Walworth County along with Emagine Theater, Lake Geneva is excited to introduce, the first in Wisconsin, an exciting new program for those in early stages of dementia and Alzheimer’s. It is called “No Hush Movies.” They will be presented at the Emagine Theater in Lake Geneva. The first movie will be EASTER PARADE, March 13th, and thereafter on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. The doors will open at 1:30 p.m., with a start time of 2:00 p.m. The next movie will be “Some Like It Hot,” April 10th, “The Blues Brothers,” May 8th and so on. The Dementia Friendly Movies aim to provide a safe and enjoyable cinematic experience for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. The auditorium lights are set higher, the sound levels are set lower, and the room temperature is comfortable. *What are “No Hush Movies”? You are encouraged to participate if you like. Sing along, get up and dance, talk, (NO HUSH or SHHHHH!)
The cost is only $5 each and there will also be a refreshment special available for $5. You are welcome to invite friends and family and all will enjoy the special low prices. You can purchase tickets in person or online at: https://www.emagine-entertainment.com/theatres/emagine-geneva-lakes/ under “SPECIAL EVENTS.” All seating is on a “first come, first serve” basis.
Editor’s note: The above press release was received from The Dementia Friendly Community Initiative. The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by Jan Alexander from Pixabay.
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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