News & Events

Whitewater Common Council Candidate Forum
Saturday, March 7, 1:30PM – 3:00PM
Whitewater City Hall Council Chambers, 312 W Whitewater Street

There are three open seats on the Council with two candidates running for each seat. The candidates are:  Aldermanic District 2 (Wards 9 & 10) Gavin Kelleher and Sean Liebherr; Aldermanic District 4 (Wards 6, 7 & 8) Brian Schanen (incumbent) and Chuck Mills; and, Member at Large Aubrey Thompson and Orin Smith. All candidates have agreed to attend the forum.  

The League of Women Voters Whitewater Area sponsors candidate forums for the benefit of YOU, the voter. At the forum, you will be asked to write your questions on cards distributed by the League. Questions are reviewed by question checkers, who sort them by topic and check for redundancy, before forwarding them to the moderator. We do not accept questions targeted to specific candidates. Questions prepared by the League board will be used only if there are not enough questions provided by residents in attendance at the forum. Bring your family, friends and neighbors! Be an active participant in our democracy!

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The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Visit our website at https://my.lwv.org/wisconsin/whitewater-area and like us on Facebook!

The Jefferson County Beef Producers (JCBP) are proud to announce their 1st Annual Steak Dinner, to be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Jefferson County Fair Park, located at 503 N. Jackson Ave., Jefferson, Wisconsin.

This community event is designed to bring consumers and producers together while celebrating the importance of the local beef industry. Guests will enjoy a hearty dinner featuring freshly grilled ribeye steaks, along with hotdogs, corn, baked potatoes, dinner rolls, desserts, and beverages including soda and beer. The evening will also include raffles and silent auctions, offering attendees additional opportunities to support local agriculture.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the Jefferson County Beef Producers and help fund educational opportunities for both current and future beef producers. These efforts aim to strengthen the beef industry in Jefferson County and ensure its success for generations to come.

“The Jefferson County Beef Producers are dedicated to promoting and preserving the local beef industry by bridging the gap between producers and consumers,” said representatives of the organization. “This steak dinner is a great way for the community to enjoy a delicious beef dinner and socialize while supporting agriculture.”

Community members, families, and supporters of local agriculture are encouraged to attend.

For sponsorship opportunities, donations, or additional information, please contact the Jefferson County Beef Producers on Facebook or jeffersoncountybeefproducers@gmail.com.

At New Day Women’s Clinic, Every Day is International Women’s Day 

Client name changed for privacy 

Each March, National Women’s Day offers a time to celebrate and honor the women in our lives. At New Day Women’s Clinic in Whitewater, it’s also a reminder to show up for them.

Established in May 2025 as the second location of the original Delavan clinic, New Day operates as a Christian non-profit that does not accept federal funding. For 40 years, the clinic has provided a variety of free services that include pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, abortion pill reversal, STI testing, one-on-one mentoring, parenting education, and material support. 

Nurse Justine Himsel, who has been a part of New Day since 2020, leans into the clinic’s focus of connecting education with informed decision making. While a crisis can often result in panic and fear, Himsel aims to help women understand their bodies and view their decisions holistically. “Our goal is to equip and empower you on your health journey.” she said. She hopes clients walk away with a renewed sense of wonder for their bodies, and the confidence to embrace life and its possibilities. 

Equipping women to navigate challenging situations reflects the broader mission of New Day. Executive Director Gretyl Rabe believes that, “meeting people with grace starts by absolving judgement about their situation.” Financial, social, or shame-related barriers might prohibit some from seeking medical or supportive care. In response, New Day strives to provide individuals with the resources and referrals to break out of harmful cycles and enrich their lives through a newfound sense of hope.

Rabe describes success at New Day as a collaborative process that helps spark a moment of self-realization for the client. “We want to help clients have the self-efficacy to continue to overcome challenges by building those strengths and the confidence in herself,” she said. For some, that might mean overcoming homelessness. For others, it’s growing in their parenting skills. For one client, Lois, it meant receiving ongoing support through different pregnancies. 

Lois came to New Day during her first pregnancy because she lacked insurance. After her second pregnancy ended in miscarriage she recalled, “They were extremely kind and understanding and willing to put forth every effort to make me feel like I had community.” Now expecting again, Lois says, “I feel that I have every resource through them … but if I did feel that I needed additional support, they’re more than willing to help connect me to groups.”

National Women’s Day provides the perfect opportunity to recognize women and their value. As a woman-run clinic serving primarily women, New Day strives to relay that message through listening, practical care, and long-term support for women like Lois.

Would you or someone you know be interested in an appointment? At New Day, every conversation matters. “An appointment is really just two women chatting, listening, and knowing how to best care for you.” Himsel said. “Women are relationally based and so are we.” 

Schedule a tour today or visit New Day’s website to learn more about how they care for the women in our community. They can’t wait to meet you!

Website: https://ndwomensclinic.com

Appointment Line: 262-725-6977

Text Line: 262-300-7796

Located at 117 S. 2nd Street, Whitewater, WI

Editor’s note: This article was contributed by New Day Women’s Clinic.

The Whitewater Unified School District Superintendent, Samuel Karns, is publishing a monthly newsletter. Our apologies that The Banner is tardy in providing some of the highlights of the January newsletter, which was distributed on January 25. In addition to the items shown below, the newsletter also includes information regarding the property tax increases, the ACT high school assessment and a variety of other subjects. The complete newsletter may be viewed here.

January Highlights: A Day of Service

On January 12th our high school held its annual Day of Service — a meaningful way for students and staff to give back to the community that supports their educational journey. Projects took place at every school in the district, at Fairhaven, the Community Space, and even at the LaGrange Fire Station. More than 200 WHS students participated — it was a GREAT day to be a Whippet! A memorable moment worth sharing: I joined students at Fairhaven to make dog treats and watched them interact with residents. The joy on both the students and the resident’s faces was unforgettable. Please check out the recap video of the day below. We have several events coming up in February. Registration will open on February 1. On February 11, I will be at Cravath Lakefront Community Center to discuss the strategic plan, 4K registration and more updates, so please come out to engage. We will also be holding a Discovery Day for incoming 4K students on February 20; more information will be shared soon for these events.

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Preparing and Supporting Learners for State Testing

Looking ahead, many of our students will participate in statewide assessments this Spring:

• The Wisconsin Forward Exam (for students in grades 3–8 and 10) will be administered between mid-March and late April. This assessment measures progress in English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. To learn more, please access the family information flyer below by clicking the button for English or Spanish.
• Many high school students will take the pre-ACT and ACT in March as a college and career readiness evaluation. For family information on the ACT, please access the ACT high school assessment flyer below by clicking the button for English or Spanish.

These assessments provide valuable information about student learning and help our schools and staff reflect on progress and inform instruction to support all learners. At home, you can support your child’s confidence and readiness for upcoming assessments by:

• Ensuring they get adequate rest and a healthy breakfast on test days.
• Encouraging them to do their best.
• Providing reassurance that assessments are one of many tools educators use to know how to help them grow.

We deeply value the partnership between home and school. Your interest, encouragement, and support make a difference in your child’s daily learning and long-term success. Thank you for your partnership!

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Supporting Student Mental Health at Home

Families play an important role in helping students feel safe, confident, and ready to learn. While schools provide support during the day, routines and relationships at home make a powerful difference. Here are a few simple, practical ways families can support student well-being—no special training required.

Create predictable routines

Regular schedules help children and teens feel secure. Consistent bedtimes, mealtimes, and homework routines can reduce stress and improve focus. Routines don’t have to be rigid—just reliable enough that students know what to expect.

Keep communication open (and low-pressure)

You don’t need the “perfect” words. Simple check-ins like “How was your day?” or “Anything on your mind?” let students know you’re available. Listening without immediately trying to fix things can be one of the most supportive responses.

Be mindful of screen time

Technology connects us, but too much screen time—especially before bed—can affect sleep and mood. Setting screen-free times (for example, during meals or before bedtime) helps students recharge and stay present.

Teach everyday stress skills

Stress is part of life, even for kids. Help students name their feelings and try simple coping strategies: take a few deep breaths, go for a walk, listen to music, or break big tasks into smaller steps. Modeling how you manage stress sends a strong message.

Notice effort, not just outcomes

Celebrate persistence, kindness, and growth—not just grades or achievements. Feeling valued for who they are helps students build confidence and resilience.

Reach out for assistance

If you have significant concerns about your child’s mental health or notice concerning changes, please reach out for help. When seeking mental health support for your child, start with their pediatrician or school counselor, provide detailed observations, and consider immediate crisis resources (such as 988) for severe symptoms; early intervention with a specialist offers the best outcomes for managing issues and building coping skills.

Finally, remember that you’re not alone. Schools and families are partners, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength. Together, we can help every student feel supported—at school and at home.

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Website Redesign

The main district website had been changed as part of our soft launch. The redesigned website includes streamlined navigation, shortcut menus for commonly accessed pages, and enhanced search functionality to help users locate information efficiently. If you have feedback and suggestions please feel free to email us at wusdallmeansallcomm@wwusd.org .

The new website may be viewed at the same link as before.

JOA Choir from Busan, South Korea
Conducted by Gun-Yoon Lee

UW-Whitewater Chamber Singers and Harmonia
Conducted by Robert Gehrenbeck

Wednesday, March 4, 7:30 pm

First United Methodist Church
145 S. Prairie Street, Whitewater

Free Admission 

On Wednesday, March 4 at 7:30 pm, First United Methodist Church in Whitewater will host a concert by the JOA Choir from South Korea. Conducted by Gun-Yoon Lee, the choir was invited by the American Choral Directors Association to perform as a headlining ensemble at the 2026 ACDA Midwestern Region Conference in Milwaukee. In conjunction with this appearance, the JOA Choir will also visit multiple Wisconsin universities, including UW-Whitewater. Performing alongside the JOA Choir on March 4 will be the UW-W Chamber Singers and Harmonia Women’s Choir, conducted by Robert Gehrenbeck. 

JOA Choir – Busan, Korea

Founded in January of 2016, JOA CHOIR marks a decade of musical exploration. Based in Busan and designated a professional arts organization by Busan Metropolitan City, this Ladies’ Choir is guided by conductor Gun-Yoon Lee. They interpret and perform a diverse repertoire—from classical to popular music, traditional Korean sounds, and jazz—through the distinctive beauty and delicacy of women’s voices. Pursuing a sound that stands apart from conventional female choirs, they offer a fresh model to Korea’s arts scene and are growing toward the global stage. In 2022, they drew strong attention as one of the most notable choirs on the audition TV show Sing For Gold, and in 2025 they won the Grand Prix at the Korea International Choral Competition (KICC).

Gun-Yoon Lee – Conductor

A Busan-born composer-conductor, Gun-Yoon is the principal conductor of the Anyang City Boys & Girls Chorus and conductor of the Sunhwa Arts School Choir. A pupil of the eminent maestro Yoon Hak-won, he conducts both Western symphony orchestras and Korean Gugak ensembles, and has earned praise for operatic and choral works that fuse artistry with accessibility. He is widely regarded as a next-generation maestro advancing Korean choral conductor and composer on the world stage.

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater celebrates the 50th anniversary of its Women’s and Gender Studies program by welcoming acclaimed author, activist, and thought leader Sonya Renee Taylor for a special keynote event on Tuesday, March 3, from 5-6:30 p.m. at the James R. Connor University Center in Whitewater.

The celebration takes place in room 275 of the University Center, and is free and open to the
public. A reception with appetizers will follow the program.

This anniversary event honors five decades of scholarship, activism, and community building,
highlighting the Women’s and Gender Studies program’s ongoing commitment to equity, critical inquiry, and transformative education.

Taylor, founder of the global “The Body Is Not an Apology” movement and a New York Times
best-selling author, will participate in a 50-minute moderated conversation and presentation
focused on radical self-love, body liberation, and social transformation, followed by a 30-minute audience Q&A.

Her groundbreaking book, “The Body Is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love,” has
been widely recognized for reshaping cultural conversations around embodiment, justice, and
collective care.

“This book is not about something as simple as body positivity or acceptance,” said editor Jeevan Sivasubramaniam. “It’s about the ways in which we see others and ourselves and judge one another on far deeper levels than we may know.”

Taylor is also the inaugural recipient of the Brian F. Bolton and Anne Nicol Gaylor Endowed
Professorship in Secular Studies, jointly awarded by UW-Whitewater’s departments of Women’s and Gender Studies and Philosophy and Religious Studies. The professorship supports intellectual engagement within an access-driven public institution, with a mission to reach first- generation students, students with disabilities, and adult learners.

Women’s and Gender Studies at UW-Whitewater is an interdisciplinary program that explores how gender and sexuality intersect with race, class, ability, and other identities. Students develop analytical thinking, intercultural competence, and problem-solving skills for diverse careers and graduate study.

Editor’s note: This press release was provided by UW-Whitewater.

Whitewater Unified School District Policy Review Committee – Monday @ 4:30 p.m.
Agenda (click on “meetings” in upper right corner.
Whitewater Unified School District Central Office
419 South Elizabeth Street, Whitewater, Wisconsin
4:30 p.m.

City of Whitewater Alcohol Licensing Committee – Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda includes beer and wine license application for Dollar General.
Whitewater Municipal Building, Cravath Lakefront
Room, 2nd floor, 312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/28590266522280?p=rHjua5AG9uWOn8o9fr
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,59105294# United States,
Phone conference ID: 591 052 94#

City of Whitewater Common Council – Tuesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI 53190
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/23416707570629?p=xCZsiQKTBioRQlb6DW
Meeting ID: 234 167 075 706 29
Passcode: Wh9t3gw7
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,398510369# United States,
Phone conference ID: 398 510 369#

City of Whitewater Landmarks Commission – Wednesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible approval of landmarking the Stone Stable. Located near 301 W Whitewater Street next to the City Parking lot. Discussion regarding possibly landmarking the Lambda Chi building. Discussion regarding the status of opening a Community Foundation Account for the Starin Park Water Tower.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater Str, Whitewater, WI, 53190
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or
telephone. Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/26772258280670?p=3Vog12jCJxuIb11Jds
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,476256582# United States
Phone conference ID: 476 256 582#

Whitewater Unified School District Board Governance Workshop – Thursday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda: School Board Workshop with the Wisconsin Association of School Boards focused on School Board Governance.
Whitewater Unified School District Central Office
419 S. Elizabeth Street
Whitewater, WI 53190

Sonict Guest Artist: Plutonium – Tuesday, March 3 @ 7:30 p.m.
Light Recital Hall, 950 W. Main St. – Admission $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18 – surcharge for tickets purchased at the door. See parking information below.
Plutonium is an adventurous Jazz octet performing the original works of Michael Brenneis. The ensemble consisting of 6 horns, bass, and drums draws on some of the finest musical talent in the region.
Isthmus says:
“…gorgeous, thrilling and just a little bit terrifying.”
“…virtuosic”
With the notable and intentional absence of a chordal instrument, this music makes unusual demands on its performers. Every piece is participatory; the players are called upon to move more air than they might under different circumstances. Every line of harmony is predetermined, but written with a density, or space, or uncertainty that allows it to breathe in an organic way. The contours of this music develop purposefully. Many of the components are fixed at the same time that the freedom is baked-in. A contradiction? Or an adventure! Plutonium is Michael Brenneis’ vehicle for experimentation into the realms of twentieth and twenty-first century compositional techniques—including every diverse idea that can represent—while maintaining a jazz framework.
Trumpet: Paul Dietrich
Trombone: Jamie Kember
Tuba: David Spies
Tenor and soprano saxophones, clarinet: Tom Gullion
Tenor and soprano saxophones: Matt Sintchak
Baritone saxophone and clarinet: Greg Smith
Bass: John Christensen
Drums: Michael Brenneis

UWW & Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestras – Saturday, March 7 @ 7:00 p.m.
The Young Performing Arts Center, 930 W. Main St. – General admission $20 with small surcharge for tickets at the door.
Rachmaninoff, Symphony No. 2
Combined performance featuring Lake Geneva and UW-Whitewater Symphony Orchestras
The LGSO and the UW-Whitewater Symphony Orchestra join forces for one of the monuments of the symphonic literature. In addition to hearing two orchestras combine to play an incredible piece, this performance also celebrates the close relationship that the LGSO and the UW-Whitewater Department of Music have shared over the years. 

Symphonic Wind Ensemble – Sunday, March 8 @ 3:00 p.m.
The Young Performing Arts Center, 930 W Main St, Whitewater, WI 53190
Admission $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Small surcharge on tickets at the door.
Immerse yourself in the powerful and rich sounds of the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, featuring UW-Whitewater’s finest wind and percussion musicians. This dynamic ensemble performs a diverse repertoire ranging from timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, delivering vibrant and thrilling performances. Join us for an inspiring afternoon that showcases the passion and precision of wind ensemble music at its best.

University/Community Band – Monday, March 9 @ 7:30 p.m.
The Young Performing Arts Center, 930 W. Main St.
Join the University/Community Band for an uplifting concert that brings together talented musicians from both campus and the local community. This diverse ensemble performs a wide range of music, from beloved classics to exciting contemporary works, creating an engaging and spirited experience for all audiences. Don’t miss this celebration of collaboration, music, and community spirit!
Admission – $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Small surcharge for tickets purchased at the door. See parking information below.

Music Mosaics: Woodwind Melodies – Tuesday, March 10 @ 7:30 p.m.
Light Recital Hall, 930 W. Main St.
Admission $10 for adults, $6 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Small surcharge for tickets purchased at the door. See parking information below.
Discover the gentle strength and lyrical beauty of woodwind music in “Woodwind Melodies.” Featuring UW-Whitewater woodwind faculty, this concert is a celebration of subtlety, color, and craftsmanship. Help shape future musical journeys by supporting scholarships through this enchanting evening of sound.

Whitewater Brass Quintet – Thursday, March 12 @ 7:30 p.m.
Light Recital Hall, 930 W. Main St.
Admission $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Small surcharge for tickets purchased at the door. See parking information below.
Experience the rich and powerful sound of the Whitewater Brass Quintet as they perform a program of beloved brass quintet standards. Showcasing their skill and versatility, this talented ensemble brings vibrant energy and exquisite musicianship to timeless works. Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the brilliance of brass chamber music.

DanceScapes `26 – March 14-19
Barnett Theatre, 930 W. Main St.
Admission $18 for adults, $16 for age 65+, $13 for under age 18. Small surcharge for tickets purchased at the door. See parking information below.
Get ready to be thrilled by “DanceScapes ’26.” This production, under the artistic direction of Amy Slater, includes a variety of original dance pieces choreographed by students, faculty, and a special guest artist. You don’t want to miss this captivating performance!
Special Events:
March 15 – Half Price Performance – All tickets are 50% off for this performance. Get your tickets before it’s too late.
March 17 – Student and Community matinee – This special mid-week matinee is open to high school groups as well as community members. High School groups should contact thtrdnce@uww.edu for special group pricing.

Chamber Singers and Vocal Jazz – Saturday, March 14 @ 7:30 p.m.
Light Recital Hall, 930 W. Main St.
Admission $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Small surcharge for tickets purchased at the door.
Experience the artistry and versatility of UW-Whitewater’s Chamber Singers and Vocal Jazz ensembles in an evening of vocal brilliance. From the refined elegance of classical chamber works to the smooth grooves and rich harmonies of jazz standards, this concert offers something for every music lover. Join us for a night of exceptional singing, stylistic range, and unforgettable performances.

UWW Chamber Orchestra – Tuesday, March 17 @ 7:30 p.m.
Light Recital Hall, 930 W. Main St.
Admission $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. See parking information below.
Discover hidden gems of the string repertoire with the Chamber Orchestra as they perform little-known masterpieces from the 18th and 19th centuries. Featuring captivating works by Grieg, Sibelius, and C.P.E. Bach, this concert offers a rare opportunity to explore the rich musical landscape beyond the classics. Join us for an enchanting evening of beautiful and surprising music brought to life by exceptional musicianship.

Parking information

Parking: A permit is required to park in University lots and on Prince Street north of Main Street during events that take place Monday – Thursday. The closest lots are Lots 1 and 2. Permits may be purchased at the kiosk at the Visitors’ Center on Starin Road. To purchase a permit online, visit uww.aimsparking.com and follow these steps:

1. Select: Purchase UW-W Special Event Permits

2. Agree to Terms of Service

3. Select Event Type: CENTER OF THE ARTS

4. Select the event you are attending

5. Select Permit Type: EVENT GUEST

6. Dates will automatically fill in

7. Click Add Vehicle

8.  Enter license plate, make, model and color vehicle; Click ADD

9. Follow the remaining prompts to complete registration process

NOTE: Your license plate is your permit; be sure to enter plate correctly to avoid tickets. Plates not entered correctly are subject to $5 tickets. Do not park in stalls with any type of sign. If you need to change your plate, call 262-472-1011 during business hours Mon-Fri 7:30 am to 4:30 pm.