News & Events

Editor’s note: The following announcement was provided by Sirina Hoffmann.

The WWHSAA will be holding the annual meeting at noon on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at Jessica’s Family Restaurant. All alumni and guests are invited to attend. During the annual meeting officer elections are held in addition to general alumni business. All attendees are responsible to pay for their own meal. Go Whippets!

The members of St. John’s Masonic Lodge invite the citizens of Whitewater and the surrounding area to come out and enjoy a nice hot meal and show your support for our lodge. Our semi-annual fundraiser dinners are essential to support our organization and the costs of maintaining and insuring our beautiful old building. Come out and dine in and allow us to serve you, or you can carry out meals and enjoy them in the comfort of your own home. We look forward to serving you.

Editor’s note: The photo on the homepage is not representative of the dinner, as there is no vegetable other than coleslaw on the menu.

Editor’s note: The following press release was provided by the Whitewater Arts Alliance.

The Whitewater Arts Alliance (WAA) is having a shorter monthly exhibit entitled Hallow’s Gala at the Cultural Arts Center, 402 West Main Street. This exhibit is running from October 13 to October 29, Thursdays through Sundays, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The following dates have differing times to be in tandem with other local Whitewater events:

• Thursday, October 26 – 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Hallow’s Gala is participating in the Whitewater Chamber of Commerce’s Ghouls Night Out which runs from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 
• WAA is a part of the Scavenger Hunt during this event where “ghouls” can look for a special symbol within the gallery. The symbol will be hidden within the exhibit, and the WAA encourages both parents and children to not only look for it but also look at the spooky artwork presented by our artists.
• During the gallery open hours, WAA volunteers will give out candy as a trick-or-treating location among the lineup. 
• WAA will also host a “Creepy Sounds Corner” where kids can use musical instruments provided by co-chair Christine Hayes to get into the Halloween spirit.
• WAA will also provide coloring pages with spooky themes for kids to color and take home.

On Sunday, October 29 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Hallow’s Gala will have its closing reception which will feature musical entertainment by Los Bromanceros. Los Bromanceros is the duo players Brian “Looper” Lucas and Kenny Jones who are also a part of the recently heard Brothers Quinn during the Savory Sounds event. Entry to the reception is $5 at the door, kids 8 years or younger get in free. There will be a costume contest with a small prize included, as well as candy and treats for attendees to enjoy. Awards for Best of Show and Viewer’s Choice will be announced during this reception. 

Artists within this exhibit are…

• Bridget Coulter, mixed media artist (Whitewater, WI)
• Anna Curtis, mixed media artist (Menomonee Falls, WI)
• Michael Joers, painter (Janesville, WI)
• Ashley McDarison, digital artist (Delavan, WI)
• Kim McDarison, painter (Delavan, WI)
• Taylor McDarison, ceramicist (Waukesha, WI)
• Woody Olsen, mixed media artist (Janesville, WI)
• Roy Schmidt, photographer (Watertown, WI)

The information about this exhibit can be found on the Whitewater Arts Alliance’s website https://www.whitewaterarts.org/hallows-gala-2023.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach out to co-chairperson Ashley McDarison, mcdarisonproductions@gmail.com. 

Click here to register. Please note that the deadline is today, 10/17.

Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay.

Editor’s Note: The following was provided by University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension Horticulture Program.

UW-Madison Division of Extension Horticulture Program is offering FREE educational online programs to help you be more successful in your own yards, gardens, containers – anywhere you grow plants!

Our next series, Houseplant Myth Busters, Tool Ideas and Succulent Spotlight, starts soon. Registration is required for each program. Participants can attend only one or all three! This series is open to the public. All programs in this series will be recorded and made available on the Extension Horticulture website. Go to bit.ly/3IYUVFq to find out more and to register!

Houseplant Mythbusters, Tool Ideas and Succulent Spotlight Online Programs
Debunking Houseplant Myths
Date/Time: October 31, 12:00 p.m.
Description: It can be hard to separate fact from fiction, especially when it comes to plant care and pest prevention. Join us to discuss common misconceptions about your indoor plant care and learn the correct strategies to keep your indoor greenery thriving and healthy. Presented by: Johanna Oosterwyk, DC Smith Greenhouse Manager, UW-Madison

Adaptive Gardening Tools: What to think about for success next season
Date/Time: November 9, 12:00 p.m.
Description: Here are some ideas of gardening tools that will make your life in the garden easier and extend your time outside enjoying the weather. By using adaptive gardening tools you can care for your plants while reducing the chance of injury.
Presented by: Ann Loper, Chairwoman of the Lifelong Gardening Project, SouthEast Wisconsin
Master Gardener (SEWMG) Association

Growing Adenium (Desert Rose) – The Flamboyant Succulent
Date/Time: Tuesday November 14, 12:00 p.m.
Description: Adeniums, or “Desert Roses,” are popular houseplants because of their structurally interesting shapes and abundance of flowers available in a diversity of colors. But, as succulents, they have special cultural requirements for care and maintenance. Join us to learn how you can successfully grow these plants and keep them thriving at home! Presented by: Dan Mahr, Emeritus Professor and Extension Entomologist, UW-Madison, and Honorary Fellow and Past President, Cactus and Succulent Society of America.

Go to bit.ly/3IYUVFq to find out more and to register! These webinars are hosted by UW-Madison, Division of Extension, Horticulture. For upcoming events and learning opportunities, see https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/events/

Editor’s note: The following press release update was issued by the City of Whitewater Police Department on October 16 at 12:55 p.m.

Whitewater Police Search for Potentially Armed Suspect at Large – SUSPECT IN CUSTODY

On Monday, October 16, 2023, at 11:11 a.m., officers of the Whitewater Police Department took Yefferson Guzman Rodriguez into custody. Officers initially spotted Guzman Rodriguez in the 900 block of Highland St. and he immediately fled on foot. Officers pursued Guzman Rodriguez on foot and took him into custody in the 300 block of S. Prince St. Guzman Rodriguez actively resisted officers’ attempts to take him into custody, and a taser was successfully deployed ending the pursuit.

Whitewater Unified School District staff were notified immediately that the suspect was approaching the area of Lincoln Elementary. The school was placed in a “hold lock” status until officers completed a search of the path Guzman Rodriguez ran to ensure that no weapons were found in the area.

Additional investigation of the incident occurring on the night of October 15th revealed that the victim, an adult female, had been battered and strangled. It was reported that at one point the victim lost consciousness. The suspect will be confined in the Walworth County Jail, and the following charges will be forwarded to the Walworth County District Attorney’s Office: Kidnapping (Wis. Stat. 940.31(1)(c)), False Imprisonment (Wis. Stat. 940.30), 1st Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety (Wis. Stat. 941.30(1)), Substantial Battery (Wis. Stat. 940.19(2)), Strangulation (Wis. Stat. 940.235), Disorderly Conduct (Wis. Stat. 947.01), and Resist/Obstruct Officer (Wis. Stat. 946.41(1)).

The Whitewater Police Department thanks those who provided tips and assisted in the investigation. It is noted that this case has not been concluded. Unless a judgment of conviction is entered, the defendant is presumed innocent of all charges.

Editor’s note: The following press release was issued by the City of Whitewater Police Department on October 16 at 8:16 a.m.

On Sunday, October 15, 2023, at 10:23 pm, the Whitewater Police Department received a report of a female needing assistance at 363 S. Janesville Street. Officers learned that Yefferson Guzman Rodriguez, 18, of Whitewater, had reportedly held the female, an acquaintance, against her will for multiple days, and at [a] point held a gun against her head. Guzman Rodriguez is described as 5’8” tall, 150 pounds, and he is a Spanish speaker.

It is believed that Guzman Rodriguez fled from the residence upon arrival of officers. It was reported that he was armed at that time, and had potentially barricaded himself in a detached garage or in the basement of the residence. Guzman Rodriguez had made comments to the victim about willingness to harm law enforcement. Officers set a perimeter around the residence and garage. The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team and Beloit Police Department SWAT team responded to assist in the search of the property. The suspect was not located on the property during the search. Whitewater Police simultaneously searched multiple residences occupied by individuals known to the suspect without locating him.

At this time Guzman Rodriguez is still at large and is considered to be armed. He reportedly possesses multiple rifles. Guzman Rodriguez is wanted for the following crimes: Kidnapping, False Imprisonment, Recklessly Endangering Safety, Intentionally Point Firearm at Person, and Disorderly Conduct.

Whitewater Police have been in contact with staff from the Whitewater Unified School District as well as UW-Whitewater Police so that appropriate security measures can be put in place. We are asking the public to be vigilant. If you see something suspicious, contact the Whitewater Police Department immediately at 262-473-0555 option #4. Call 911 in an emergency. Anonymous tips may be shared using P3Tips.com. The Whitewater Police Department thanks the assisting law enforcement agencies for sending their staff and resources.

It is noted that this case has not been concluded. Unless a judgment of conviction is entered, the defendant is presumed innocent of all charges.

Editor’s note: The following announcement has been released by UW-Whitewater to the campus community.

Campus community,

UW-Whitewater Police are in regular communication with City of Whitewater Police and the Walworth County Sheriff’s Department regarding the ongoing search for a potentially armed suspect wanted for crimes in the city. Because of the information we have, the university remains open and operational and classes are continuing as scheduled.

• As a precaution, campus police have increased foot patrols, mobile patrols and video surveillance.
• Students who live in residence halls should continue to follow good safety practices by not opening the doors for others, and only allowing access via HawkCard.
• As part of our operational procedures, as with any situation, please use your own best judgment and consider your personal safety before deciding to attend classes or work. Students, as always, make sure you communicate with your instructors if you won’t be in class. Employees who cannot make it safely to work should contact their supervisors and request appropriate leave or make arrangements for remote work as their job duties allow.

City of Whitewater Police are asking the public to be vigilant. If you see something suspicious, contact the Whitewater Police Department immediately at 262-473-0555 option #4. Call 911 in an emergency. Anonymous tips may be shared using P3Tips.com. 

Editor’s note: Updated on 10/17 at 5 p.m. to add School District event on Wednesday.

City of Whitewater Finance Committee – Monday @ 3:30 p.m.
Agenda = 2024 draft budget review
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/948159733
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code:
948-159-733
United States:
1 (646) 749-3122
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install

City of Whitewater Alcohol Licensing Committee – Monday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda = hearing of appeals of denial of beverage operator’s licenses
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82447418895?pwd=dJ6v-OyVrHFuwS5CZ49PsKnv84MpLQ.F6-
YzgoxtRCBwY7C
Telephone: 1 312 626 6799
Webinar ID: 824 4741 8895
Passcode: 645273

Irvin L. Young Library Board of Trustees – Monday @ 6:30 p.m.
Library Community Room 431 West Center,
*In Person and Virtual
Agenda includes Discussion of the library director position description and next steps for the search committee, followed by executive session to discuss appointment of an interim library director effective November 27. The board will reconvene after the executive session.
Please click the link below to join the meeting:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89929656951?pwd=dmd4QkppL2FDMXA5WURjcy8rZ0dHdz09
Meeting ID: 899 2965 6951
Passcode: EzXQ7vJz
Dial by your location
+1 312 626 6799
Meeting ID: 899 2965 6951
Passcode: 50657151

City of Whitewater Common Council – Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Agenda includes Discussion with the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater regarding the Innovation Center, Presentation and Overview of Draft 2024 Budget, first reading of an ordinance to amend Mobile Homes & Mobile Home Parks, first reading of an ordinance regarding licensing of short-term rentals, Discussion and possible action regarding an RFP for legal services to retain an outside law firm to advise the Common Council on employee discipline and personnel matters not to exceed $10,000, Closed session (to reconvene) to discuss MOU/MSP with UWW concerning the Innovation Center Item to be discussed: 1)Discussion regarding complaints received by the Human Resources Department.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81116772484?pwd=Ro9fjhHaRgRt8uAknylwyVHynNdqkw.MBXVHonVB6IBB
WoL
Telephone: 1 312 626 6799 US
Webinar ID: 811 1677 2484
Passcode: 451871
Please click the link below to join the webinar (after the closed session):
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88581189176?pwd=5rPzHrk3EGefCMhJg0YXrqPw9rAT_A.51Y8m4GYM7XSH
vAv
Telephone: 1 312 626 6799
Webinar ID: 885 8118 9176
Passcode: 173751

Parks & Recreation Board Public Notice – Wednesday @ 5:30 p.m.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West
Whitewater Str *In Person
Meet and greet of new Parks & Recreation Director Kevin Boehm

Members of the Whitewater School Board will be attending the WUSD Unplugged session at the Central Office on
Wednesday, October 18, 2023 beginning at 6:00 p.m. A quorum of the School Board may be present; however, the
Board will not be conducting any business during the event.

Community Development Authority Board of Directors – Thursday @ 5:30 p.m.
(In Person & Virtual)
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible action regarding acceptance of proposed Real Estate Listing Contract for brokerage services for sale of City-owned properties, and discussion regarding housing strategy going forward.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89101540851?pwd=uXqfKM9W-Lvfes5y64AlhkFxIZ4AoQ.yK18q4rsbLfScFxW
Passcode: 207682
Or Telephone: 1 312 626 6799
Webinar ID: 891 0154 0851
Passcode: 207682

Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Unites Lives.

Kathy Ross is a WUL Hometown Hero, and has been nominated by Suzanne Chenoweth at Lincoln Elementary School and by Fairhaven “For all she does for our community at Lincoln Elementary School, Whitewater Middle School and Fairhaven.”

Suzanne Chenoweth says, “She helps sort through old and new books, reshelves them, boxes them, or finds new homes for them.  She is a joy to be around.  We enjoy her southern accent and sharing books we’ve read.  The Lincoln reading team would be LOST without her help.  She also helps with other areas of need at our school, selflessly giving of her time. We appreciate her immensely at Lincoln Elementary School. She also keeps many of the Little Free Libraries in town stocked with books.  And, Kathy volunteers her time at the middle school library as needed.”

Fairhaven shares, “While the list of what Kathy volunteers with/for is too long to write up, the one thing we can say about her is that she gives her HEART to anything and everything.  Kathy provides countless hours each week helping on projects, tasks and social visits that not only impact the staff but also that of the residents.  Her care, compassion and energy is like none other and we are so grateful to have Kathy as a member of the Fairhaven Family.”

Kathy is also a dedicated volunteer at Prairie Village, the Whitewater Public Library and the Whitewater Senior Center. 

WUL (Whitewater Unites Lives) is a locally-focused civil and human rights group that works to connect the people in our community and to create opportunities for all people to learn and support each other in our common humanity.   

Anyone who would like to nominate a local hero of any age should send their nomination, with a short description, to whitewaterunites@gmail.com