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Today is Friday, June 26, 2026
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Historic Heart Prairie Lutheran Church
Christmas Eve Services, Sunday, Dec. 24th
1:00 & 2:00 p.m.
R and W Townline Rd, on Whitewater Lake
Dress warm
First English Lutheran Church
Sunday, Dec. 24th
4:00 p.m. Candles & Choir, Brass & Strings Service
7:00 p.m. Contemplative Guitar, Organ, and Flute Service
Editor’s note: The above announcement was provided by Rev. Joseph O’Donnell.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
This week we return to our tradition of posting a penny postcard “wishing you a Merry Christmas.” These penny postcards were popular during the first few decades of the 20th century and cost only a 1 cent stamp to send. This card was printed in Germany and has “post card” written in many languages on the back.
Merry Christmas and join us next week for New Year’s greetings.
During the week of December 18-20, WHS celebrated Winter Week. The week consisted of dress days, an all-school game of Rock, Paper, Scissors, and an assembly, followed by a donut breakfast.
Monday’s dress day was Wisconsin Day. Staff and Students dressed in Wisconsin gear (Badgers, Bucks, Brewers, Packers, Whippets, Flannels, and Cheeseheads).
On Tuesday, it was White Out Day, along with an all-school, all-day long, game of Rock, Paper, Scissors. Five $5 Sweet Spot gift cards were awarded to Emerson Ellenwood, Marijose Verduzco, Leah Newman, and Junior Soto for being the top four students to win and to Rapha Cortez for being the staff winner.
On Wednesday, staff and students wore their ugly sweaters and brought anything but a backpack to school. Students and staff also attended an assembly where Officer Michelle Martin was recognized for her years of service in the Whitewater Unified School District and Casey Lyon was recognized for breaking the record for the most points in a boys’ basketball game. Casey scored 47 points against East Troy, last week Friday; the previous record of 46 points was held for over 50 years by Hugh Gnatzig. The Winter Court was also announced at the assembly (see the names below). The Pom Squad performed, and a competitive game of Musical Chairs took place. The winner of that game was Richi Kalra. As the assembly started to wrap up, Emerson and Marijose played a final round of Rock, Paper, Scissors for the overall winner. Marijose won in best out of three games. To complete the assembly, staff and students participated in an ugly sweater contest. The winner was junior Andrew O’Toole.
To wrap up Wednesday morning, a donut breakfast was held for WHS, while a group of staff members and former students played instruments and provided music. Thank you to the Student Council and the Kitchen Crew for making the donut breakfast possible.
Happy Holidays, WHS!
Winter Court:
- Emilia Houwers represented Model United Nations.
- Meg Roselle represented Hope Squad.
- Savannah O’Neal represented the Pom Squad.
- Cruz Aranda represented the Boys’ Swim Team
- Representing Gymnastics was Gabriella Pena Perroni.
- Representing Boys’ Wrestling was Jesus Barajas.
- Representing Girls’ Wrestling was Lauren Buehler.
- Representing Boys’ Basketball was Emerson Ellenwood.
- Representing Girls’ Basketball was Aidyn Amundson.
- Chris Cortes represented the Computer Programming Team.
- Representing WHS Players was Brooke Mason.
- Calli Grosinske represented SADD.
- Representing Key Club was Emily Henderson.
Article Submitted by Amy Houwers
Whitewater High School Student Council Advisor
ahouwers@wwusd.org
Photos Courtesy of Tom Ganser
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by the Whitewater Public Library.
Looking for something to do with your family over winter break? The community is invited to a demonstration by Ferradermis Robotics Team at the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library on Wednesday, December 27. Drop in the library’s community room anytime between 9:30-11:30 a.m. to see the team operate their robot and answer questions.
Ferradermis, FIRST Robotics Competition Team #6574, is based out of Whitewater High School. The mission of Ferradermis is to create a sustainable extracurricular environment and provide mentorship for high school students to participate in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC).
This is a free, fun family event. The Irvin L Young Memorial Library is located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater.
Contact Sarah French with questions at sfrench@whitewater-wi.gov or 262-458-2782.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Fort HealthCare.
Over the past year, construction equipment has been very visible on the Fort HealthCare campus. Two major projects are now completed that will vastly improve parking options for patients, visitors, and Fort HealthCare staff members. The Ambulatory Services Parking Lot has been reconfigured, almost doubling parking spaces for patients and visitors. In addition, after almost 20 years of remote parking for employees, there is now enough space for all staff to park on the hospital campus. Both of these improvements are intended to enhance both the patient and staff experience at Fort HealthCare.
In addition to this project, Fort HealthCare has another major remodeling project slated to begin in 2024. This project will again aim to improve the patient and visitor experience at Fort HealthCare by consolidating several clinical services onto the main campus. “By placing many of our services together on the Fort HealthCare campus, patients will spend less time navigating across town,” states Dr. Michael Anderson, President and Chief Executive Officer. He adds, “Our goal is to optimize the patient experience. Unifying the location of multiple clinical services will help accomplish that.” In addition, this remodeling project will replace mechanicals in the older part of the building that have been operational since 1949.
“It is important for Fort HealthCare to be good stewards of our facility and to continue to update and improve the buildings over time. Our aim is to continue to be the trusted, community hospital serving Jefferson County. We have been here for over 80 years. Our commitment to this project reflects Fort HealthCare’s enduring dedication to the health and well-being needs of our patients and community well into the future,” concludes Dr. Anderson.
About Fort HealthCare
Fort HealthCare is committed to improving the health and well-being of our communities, with a vision to be the healthiest community in Wisconsin. As the leading healthcare provider in the region, it is our goal to reach as many members of the community as possible with health and wellness messages, providing tools and resources to help individuals improve their health and quality of life while collaborating with several partners to positively improve the population’s health overall on a long-term basis. Please visit FortHealthCare.com for more information.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by the Rock County Sheriff’s Office. The department has previously indicated to The Banner that Rock County residency is not required to enroll in their classes.
Sheriff Fell is pleased to announce that the Rock County Sheriff’s Office will offer our first 2024 ATV Safety Education Course on January 9, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., and January 20, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., at the Rock County Fairgrounds – Craig Center, 1301 Craig Ave, Janesville, WI 53545. Students will need to attend both sessions to graduate.
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, is required to complete an ATV Safety Education Course in order to legally operate an ATV or UTV in areas open to the public within the State of Wisconsin. It is recommended that participants are at least 12 years of age or turn 12 shortly after the class.
ATV Safety Education Course – Class #1
Session 1: January 9, from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. @ Rock Co. Fairgrounds – Craig Center
Session 2: January 20, from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. @ Rock Co. Fairgrounds – Craig Center
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/atv-education
Class size is limited to thirty 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 Trevor Lund at trevor.lund@co.rock.wi.us
Tuesday night, December 19, the Whippet Boys’ Basketball Team hosted the conference-leading Jefferson Eagles in the first of two Rock Valley matchups this season. Leading 37-35 at halftime, everything was clicking for Whitewater early on. Marcos Sagrero had 18 points, and the team played with tenacity on defense – generating turnovers, getting out in the fast break, and putting Jefferson in a pickle by getting to the free-throw line early.
In the second half, however, the Eagles made adjustments and just enough plays down the stretch to overcome the two-point halftime deficit. The Whippets had opportunities at the rim and the free-throw line, but could not capitalize on the hot shooting in the first half of the game. Despite Sagrero’s career-high 23 points, Jefferson pulled away in the end to win 71-65 in a highly competitive contest and remains undefeated in the Rock Valley Conference. Whitewater falls to 2-6 overall.
Let’s get ’em next time Whippets!
Whitewater High School hosts Milwaukee Academy of Science on Thursday, December 21.
Article Submitted by Shane Cullian and Michael McCabe
Whitewater High School Boys’ Basketball Coaches
scullian@wwusd.org, mccmi01@wwusd.org
Photo Courtesy of Bob Mischka
By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
The Whitewater Area Regional Ministry (WARM) of the United Methodist Church presented the Christmas cantata, “A Journey to Joy,” a beautiful brand new work by Joseph M. Martin, on Sunday, December 10 at First United Methodist Church. Presentations took place at the 10 a.m. worship service and at a 4:00 p.m. concert. The 35-voice choir included singers from the community, including UW-Whitewater, as did the 17-piece orchestra.
Soloists for the presentation were Jen Crone, Nathan Roley, Barb Taylor and Kay Ebert. The choir was conducted by Christine Hayes and accompanied on piano by James Athas. The work is a joyful blend of traditional carols and contemporary selections all telling the Christmas story. Scripture and narration interjected throughout the cantata was delivered by The Rev. Dan Fahs and The Rev. Beth Staniforth-Seamster.
Christine Hayes said, “The cantata, “A Journey to Joy,” truly proved to be prophetic. Bringing together 50 singers and instrumentalists lifted our souls as we prepared this beautiful music. The musicians represented the Whitewater community, churches and university. As we rehearsed each week, the messages of peace, love, hope and joy rang out. Presenting this Christmas message to hundreds, either in person or watching virtually, culminated in a joyous and emotional experience for the audience and performers. We are deeply appreciative of Joe Mansfield, who gifted us with memorial funds, making these two performances possible. It will carry us all through the Holy Christmas season. May we all carry the joy of Christmas in our hearts.”
A video of the cantata may be viewed here. The cantata begins at 19:50 on the recording.
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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