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By Angela Kelm
Asst. Athletic Director for Sports Information
The No. 4 University of Wisconsin-Whitewater women’s basketball team defeated UW-Stevens Point 53-44 Wednesday night in Kachel Gym. With the win, the Warhawks match the best start in program history (2007-08) with a 14-0 mark.
Box Score
UWW built a 19-11 lead after the first 10 minutes of play. The Warhawks shot well in the first quarter hitting 57-percent from the floor and 3-4 of their three-point tries. Kacie Carollo was 4-6 from the field and 2-2 from long range for 10 points in the first 10 minutes.
UW-Whitewater’s offense cooled off shooting 33-percent in the second and just 17-percent in the third as the Pointers pulled to within six, 41-35, with one quarter remaining.
The Warhawks sealed the game from the free throw line with eight of the team’s 12 points in the fourth coming from the charity stripe. UWW was 8-10 from the line down the stretch leading to the final.
Carollo tallied a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds. She is now just one rebound away from 500 career boards. She added three assists and a block. Aleah Grundahl posted 15 points on 6-12 from the floor with seven rebounds.
| Editor’s note: The following press release was received from the office of the governor. Gov. Evers Announces Wisconsin Reached Highest Enrollment Ever on HealthCare.gov |
| For a limited time, Wisconsinites can still sign up for affordable, high-quality health insurance on the federal marketplace through Jan. 16, 2024 |
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today announced that, according to new enrollment data released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services as of Dec. 23, 2023, 254,482 Wisconsinites have signed up for health insurance on the individual marketplace. This marks the highest enrollment Wisconsin has ever reached. The previous record was attained during the 2017 Open Enrollment Period when 242,863 Wisconsinites signed up for coverage. “Every Wisconsinite should have access to quality, affordable healthcare, and having a record number of Wisconsinites signed up to access affordable healthcare coverage is a critical achievement in our administration’s efforts to make sure folks and families can access the healthcare they need when they need it,” said Gov. Tony Evers. “This is great news for our state, and we will continue working to ensure Wisconsinites can get covered by encouraging folks to take advantage of the ongoing Open Enrollment period between now and January 16th.” Through January 16, Wisconsinites are still eligible to sign up for one of the dozens of health plans available on the federal marketplace. Those who already have insurance through the marketplace can also renew, update, or upgrade their health plans. “By getting insured, you are investing in your health and the health of those around you,” said Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) Commissioner Nathan Houdek. “Connect with a licensed health insurance agent, broker, or navigator today to understand your options and find the right HealthCare.gov plan for you and your family.” “We are thankful for OCI and our partners who spread the word about open enrollment to ensure people have health insurance coverage,” said Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) Secretary Kirsten Johnson. “Health insurance allows people to stay healthy and active in their communities. Access to coverage, whether through Medicaid, HealthCare.gov, or an employer, is how we keep Wisconsin a great place to live, work and play.” In 2020, Gov. Tony Evers’ OCI DHS Health Care Coverage Partnership launched WisCovered.com as an accessible resource for consumers. By visiting WisCovered.com or calling 2-1-1, people can get connected with free, expert help. These experts help Wisconsinites understand their coverage options and determine if they qualify for subsidized health insurance premiums through the marketplace or free coverage through BadgerCare Plus. The individual health insurance market has expanded substantially statewide, growing eight percent from 2019 to 2021. During the Open Enrollment Period last year, 221,128 Wisconsinites signed up for health insurance. Much of the enrollment increase is tied to the subsidies enhanced by the American Rescue Plan Act and extended by the Inflation Reduction Act. Last year, 89 percent of Wisconsinites who enrolled on HealthCare.gov qualified for these cost savings. Additionally, the successful Wisconsin Healthcare Stability Plan (WIHSP) has held down rates on the individual marketplace. Without WIHSP, rates on HealthCare.gov would have increased by 18.2 percent for the 2024 plan year, based on a weighted average. Wisconsin’s individual health insurance market also has the second-most insurers in the nation. Wisconsinites in all 72 counties can choose from at least three different health insurance carriers on HealthCare.gov. An interactive map of health insurers available by county can be found here. |
Editor’s note: The following press release was received from the Wisconsin Dept. of Health Services.
With cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) rising across Wisconsin, the Department of Health Services (DHS) is urging pregnant Wisconsinites to get the vaccine to protect their baby from the virus. As of January 10 there have been 1,402 people in Wisconsin hospitalized with RSV this season; 580 of those are children under age 2.
The RSV vaccine Abrysvo can be given to people who are pregnant between 32 weeks and 36 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy and provides protection for newborns until they are 6 months old. The vaccine was approved for use in 2023 and is safe and effective. People who are pregnant should ask their health care provider if they can get the vaccine.
“This RSV vaccine provides protection to the infant for the first six months after they are born,” said DHS Respiratory Disease Epidemiologist Tom Haupt. “That provides the baby protection at a time when they could be vulnerable to serious illness.”
A different option to protect infants is a monoclonal antibody shot (nirsevimab). Children under eight months of age can receive nirsevimab, but it is important to know that nirsevimab is currently in limited supply. This is why it is especially important for people who are pregnant to get the RSV vaccine, which is readily available, to ensure their infants are protected.
The RSV vaccine is also available to all adults aged 60 and older. There are two RSV vaccines available for this age group: Arexvy and Abrysvo. Both vaccines are safe and effective.
Aging and older adults, individuals who are pregnant, and new parents should contact their health care provider to determine if RSV vaccination or preventive treatment is recommended for them or their infant.
In addition to the RSV vaccine, DHS urges everyone six months and older to get the flu vaccine and updated COVID-19 vaccine. This is especially important for people who are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill, which includes those who are pregnant, age 65 and older, and those with chronic health conditions. Wisconsinites can find locations offering the flu and COVID-19 vaccine by visiting vaccines.gov or calling 211 or 877-947-2211.
Besides vaccines, there are steps we can all take to help stop the spread of germs and viruses:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth.
- Stay home and away from others if you feel sick.
- Avoid being around others who are sick or have respiratory illness symptoms.
- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze and encourage children to do the same.
- Wear a high-quality mask around others to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.
Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the photo on the homepage by Camylla Battani on Unsplash.
Editor’s note: The following press release was received from UW-Madison.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has recognized students named to the Dean’s List for the fall semester of the 2023-2024 academic year.
Students who achieve at a high level academically are recognized by the dean at the close of each semester. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must complete a minimum of 12 graded degree credits in that semester. Each university school or college sets its own GPA requirements for students to be eligible to receive the distinction.
Whitewater, WI
Jonathan Chan, College of Engineering, Dean’s Honor List
Shawn Chan, College of Engineering, Dean’s Honor List
Arno Crowley, Col of Agricultural & Life Sci, Dean’s List
Colin Dugan, Col of Agricultural & Life Sci, Dean’s List
Carson Ellenwood, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
Reid Gunnink, School of Business, Dean’s List
CC Liang, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
Mohamed Mohamed, School of Pharmacy, Honor Roll
Anna Riemer, School of Pharmacy, High Honor Roll
Kendal Schreiber, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
Daniel Soto, College of Engineering, Dean’s Honor List
Kaden Tourdot, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
Michael Zande, College of Engineering, Dean’s Honor List
According to a report on WKOW, Payton Zech, a local DoorDash driver, encountered a herd of cows running towards his vehicle on Highway P. “I don’t know what to do in this situation,” he said as the cows trotted toward him. “I’m just gonna keep going backwards, I suppose.”
The video report may be viewed here. Click on the second image for the video.
By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
The National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan Weather Forecast Office (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning beginning at 6 a.m. on Friday through noon on Saturday. They are projecting in the range of 8-12″ of snow in the Whitewater area. If that sounds familiar, it’s similar to the range that they had anticipated earlier this week, when we actually received approximately 3-4″. They indicate that lower than anticipated snow was related, among other things, to the warmer temperature. This time the temperature is expected to be lower, including the roads, and NWS claims that they tried to estimate conservatively.
Wind gusts on Friday and Saturday are expected to cause blowing/drifting snow. The Wisconsin State Patrol advises people to postpone their Friday and Saturday travels as another winter storm and low temperatures roll through the state. Trooper Wameng Van said people should limit their traveling if possible on Friday and Saturday during an expected winter snowstorm. ”If you can postpone it, I would advise to do so,” he said. ”With single and sub-zero temperatures, you think about frostbite; just within 30 minutes or so, frostbite can start kicking in already. You want to try to avoid that.”
Wind Chill Advisories may be issued next week, as the wind chill on Sunday and Monday may fall to -30F.
Editor’s note: The following announcement was received from Pamela Sonmor-Wintz, WHS counselor.
Akamion McHenry has been chosen by the faculty at Whitewater High School to attend the Wisconsin Leadership Seminar at Carroll University in Waukesha June 14-16, 2024!
Akamion will participate in team-building activities, hear motivational speakers, and participate in small group discussions designed to develop additional leadership skills in sophomores across the state of Wisconsin. Congratulations Akamion!!
Editor’s note: The following announcement was posted on January 4.
Sara Deschner Named Associate Vice Chancellor and Chief Information Officer named
Campus community,
I am pleased to announce that Sara Deschner has been named Associate Vice Chancellor and Chief Information Officer. Sara has been part of the UW-Whitewater community for 17 years, serving in several roles, including Assistant Director in ICIT, lecturer and Assistant Dean in the College of Business and Economics.
As the Interim CIO and leader of our IT Services Department since April 2023, Sara has begun working to reimagine the information technology capabilities and support services for the Whitewater and Rock campuses. Her proven leadership experience — along with the collaborative efforts she has already set in motion — make me confident that she is the best choice for our campuses.
Sara officially began her new role on December 31, 2023.
I would like to thank Paul Waelchli, Library Director, for leading the search, along with the members of the search and screen committee for their dedicated time and commitment to successfully recruiting and reviewing the candidates.
Brenda Jones
Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administrative Affairs
Editor’s note: The following announcement was posted at UW-W on December 26.
Artanya Wesley Departs for University of Tennesee at Chattanooga
Today it was announced that Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Artanya Wesley was named the next vice chancellor of enrollment management and student affairs at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Please join me in congratulating Dr. Wesley.
During her tenure on campus, Dr. Wesley has led with her heart. She is a servant leader whose passion is to ensure all students — in particular those that came from humble communities as she did — see their potential and believe in themselves.
Wesley joined the university in July 2016 as dean of students. She was appointed vice chancellor of student affairs in April of 2020, having served in the role as interim since July 2019.
She previously served in various student affairs leadership roles at the Universities of Wisconsin and UW-Platteville. Her professional experience includes presentations at the local and national level on topics ranging from university housing to Title IX to student recruitment and retention.
The Universities of Wisconsin System honored Dr. Wesley with the Outstanding Woman of Color award twice — in 2009 and 2019.
She earned a Ph.D. in educational psychology from Capella University and two degrees from UW-Platteville: Master of Science in Education in Counselor Education and Bachelor of Science in Psychology.
Dr. Wesley’s last day on campus will be Jan. 5, 2024. Please know I have meetings arranged with Student Affairs leadership and will name an interim leader by the end of January. We will ensure a thoughtful approach in a permanent hire for this role with a continued focus on student excellence.
Again, please join me in congratulating Dr. Wesley and thanking her for her strong leadership and dedicated service to UW-Whitewater.
Sincerely,
Corey A. King
Chancellor
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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