Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Thursday, June 25, 2026
News & Events
To add an event, click here to go to the Community Calendar. Then, click on Submit Event.
Helpful Links
Search our Archives
To search our archives, enter a search term in the search box, then press enter to search.
The Whitewater Whippet Boys’ Swim Team secured two HUGE conference wins against PSC and Delavan-Darien on Tuesday, January 16!
Whitewater 80 – PSC 79
Whitewater 94 – Delavan-Darien 56
Whitewater 60 – Elkhorn 109
The boys came to compete, so here are a few highlights from the meet:
Jack Hefty beat all competitors by 2 seconds in the 100 Freestyle with a time of 1:00.92.
In the event following, Cruz Aranda also beat all competitors by 6 seconds in the 400 Freestyle with a time of 4:57.16.
Langdon Coburn took first in his heat and placed 4th overall in the 200 IM with a time of 2:53.63.
Angel Kilar competed in the 100 Backstroke for the first time this season.
Isaac Straight had an impressive swim in the 100 Breaststroke. It’s been exciting to see him evolve in this stroke throughout the season!
Wyatt Esch competed in the 400 Freestyle for the first time this season.
The Whippets are back in the pool on Saturday, January 20, in Jefferson for their invite. We hope to see you in the stands!
Article and Photo Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
sreynolds@wwusd.org
Cheng Yang, 20, of 1128 B W. Florence St, Whitewater, has been charged with a hit and run – injury, a felony.
Harling Gamez Rodriguez, 24, of 424 W Forest Ave, Whitewater, has been charged with possession of narcotic drugs, a felony.
Jose A Morales, 46, of 494 W. Whitewater Street, Whitewater, has been charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence – fifth offense, a felony.
Editor’s note: These cases have not been concluded. Unless a judgment of conviction is entered, each defendant is presumed innocent of all charges.
After hosting three large wrestling tournaments this season, the Whippets had the opportunity to host their first dual meet of the season on Thursday night. The Monroe Cheesemakers made their way to Whitewater to participate in a first ever dual meet against each other. Whitewater has often seen Monroe in tournaments but due to distance never scheduled a dual meet. This all changed as Monroe and Whitewater are both part of the Rock Valley Conference in the Rock Division. The coaching staff knew this was going to be a challenging home dual meet as Monroe has a very solid team this year.
The dual started off at 138 pounds where Curtis Rossmiller came out strong but could not keep up the pace against a defending state qualifier and ended up getting pinned in the match. Traysen Thomason (144) followed up with a very well wrestled match picking up the decision to get the Whippets on the board. After a couple of weights going against the Whippets, Sebastian Cuellar (165) got things moving in the right direction for Whitewater in a tough match, coming up with a big pin to put the home team down 9-17. Jesus Barajas (175) followed with a very good match, nearly pinning his opponent on a couple of occasions but ended up getting a 10-3 victory and closing the gap to 12-17. Payton Lyon (190) put the Whippets on top with a second period pin. Ethan Barels followed with a very hard fought match coming up just short before Junior Soto got a forfeit at heavyweight putting the Whippets up 24-20 with five weights to go. At 113 Jasen Porras had the opportunity to see his way back on the mat after an early season injury, wrestling a very good match winning 8-4 and putting the Whippets up 27-24 with three to go. Jarvis Porcaro (120) got a major decision 12-4. Freshman Brady Friend walked out on the mat knowing that a victory by him would seal the win for the home team. Brady showed lots of grit, wrestling potentially the best match of the season winning 7-4 and sealing the win for the Whippets 34-25. The win improved their record to 7-1 on season and 3-0 in the conference.
The team is next in action on Thursday night, January 18, when they host the Jefferson Eagles. This will mark both Parents Night and Senior Night for the team. JV will start at 6:00 with the varsity competing at 7:00. The team would love to see a packed house in their battle against Jefferson.
Article and Photo Submitted by John Schimming
Whitewater High School Head Wrestling Coach
jschimming@wwusd.org
As a lifelong educator, now retired, I hope to lend my experience and passion for public school education to my local school board. Having worked as a coach, teacher, principal and superintendent I am well aware of the changing cycles within education. As a parent I saw my sons benefit from quality instruction as they both graduated from Whitewater High School and moved into success in college and their professional careers. I want the best possible experience for every student in the Whitewater schools.
School boards across Wisconsin have been handcuffed by an archaic funding system built upon a formula based on 1993 spending limits. Local taxpayers have been dealt an ever increasing burden where local referendums become necessary just to maintain existing programs. Funding limits cause school leadership to become more creative while teacher pay and benefits fall further behind other costs of living.
While our district is striving to retain quality educators, the challenges grow with each passing year. Valuing staff is crucial. Where salaries may not be competitive with other fields; appreciation, recognition and support can help offset those fiscal gaps.
It is my intention to make every effort to build trust in our school leadership. Open transparent honest actions are one of the key ways to build that trust. Open communication, a reduction of closed meetings and involving all pertinent stakeholders in decision making is how this is accomplished.
Having lived in Whitewater for eighteen years, my family has benefitted greatly from all it has to offer. My hope, if the electorate will give me the opportunity, is to give back to this very special district and community with my passion for education.
I can be contacted for more information or to respond to any question or concerns by email or text.
Yours in Education, Jeff Tortomasi rocktorto@gmail.com cell/text 715-905-0909
Editor’s note: The above announcement was provided by Jeff Tortomasi. The use of the Whitewater Unified School District logo on the homepage should not be construed to imply endorsement by the district.
In an effort to cultivate a sense of community engagement and fulfill graduation requirements, Whitewater High School proudly announces the success of its recent afternoon of service projects in recognition of MLK Day. Staff and students worked collaboratively to create meaningful opportunities for service learning that positively impacted our community.
Through a collaborative effort between dedicated staff and enthusiastic students, WHS successfully implemented a diverse range of service projects. From environmental initiatives to outreach programs, students were able to choose projects aligned with their interests, creating a dynamic and impactful experience for all involved. The Whippets’ first day of service learning demonstrates our commitment to fostering not only academic excellence but also in nurturing responsible, compassionate citizens who actively contribute to the well-being of our community.
The success of these service projects extends beyond fulfilling graduation requirements; it leaves a lasting impact on the community and fosters a sense of accomplishment among the participating students. WHS looks forward to building on this success in future service-learning initiatives, continuing to empower students to make a positive difference in the world around them.
Article Submitted by Kate McNulty, Whitewater High School
kmcnulty@wwusd.org
Photos Courtesy of Laura Masbruch, LouLou Wade, and Kiana Aranda
Our in-office pantry has received tons of toiletry donations over the past month!
For those who aren’t aware, we have a pantry in our office’s back room (at 133 S. Franklin Street – Whitewater), where any community member can pick up toiletry/household items. We do not require an application or any documentation for a person to utilize this service. It is here, free of charge, for anyone needing extra support. The Bethel House client pantry is available during open office hours: Mon-Thurs 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Please note if staff is out or meeting with clients, the pantry may not be accessible, so it is best to schedule an appointment by calling 262.473.2715 or emailing casemanager.bethelhouse@gmail.com.
A special thank you to the following individuals/groups for their recent donations (including a handful of anonymous donations dropped off/sent to us):
Stephanie McDonald & her network of friends/colleagues
UW-Whitewater Circle K (@uwwcirclek)
St. Patrick Catholic Church
First United Methodist Church of Whitewater
First English Lutheran Church – Whitewater
Donations are always welcome! Our most needed items right now are: toilet paper, paper towels, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, hand soap, cleaning wipes/sprays, bandaids/first aid items, and body wash. We are NOT in need of toothbrushes, toothpaste or bar soap. We keep updated details on our website (along with “kit” donation ideas) here: http://www.bethelhouseinc.org/donate.html
International performer, and Whitewater local, Andreas Transø will share stories, songs, and more at The Wright House in Whitewater on Friday, January 19 at 7 p.m.
In a performance with Andreas, you can expect everything from poetry to spoons playing, ancient ballads to original songs…all woven with bits of history and good humored jokes. Prepare for an embracing and jolly performance, with tears from laughter or inspired by swelling powerful performances of beautiful stories gathered and well-toned by an experienced and ever-ripening young seanchaí.
Link for registration: jollyseanchai.eventbrite.com
The National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan Weather Forecast Office has issued yet one more Wind Chill Advisory, continuing until 9 a.m. on Wednesday. They indicate that the coldest chills will be from late Monday night until Tuesday morning.
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
Other Recent Posts
Click on the title to view the post. To open the post in a new tab, press Ctrl (Cmd on a Mac) while clicking on the title.
