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Today is Tuesday, June 23, 2026
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“The Empire of Light”
Wednesday, September 20, 1 p.m.
(Drama/Romance) Rated R (sexual content, language); 1 hour, 55 minutes. (2022)
Our last Wednesday art film of the summer is a British homage to the movie palaces of a bygone era. Coastal England, 1980. A middle-aged, unmarried cinema manager (Olivia Coleman) struggles to save a dying, chain movie theatre. Her loneliness and depression, compounded by a lecherous boss (Colin Firth), takes a turn when an energetic trainee (Micheal Ward) brightens her perspective on the business and life. Nominations included Best Cinematography (Oscar), Best Actress & Film (BAFTA) and AARP Best Grownup Love Story.
Breaking Ground: Walworth County & WCEDA Host Housing Summit
Summit Focused on Finding Meaningful Solutions to the County’s Housing Shortage
(ELKHORN, WI): Walworth County and the Walworth County Economic Development Alliance (WCEDA) will host the Breaking Ground: Walworth County Housing Summit to find solutions to the shortage of middle-income housing. The summit will bring together local municipal and business leaders, educators, state and local housing and community development experts, funding and resource partners, builders and contractors, non-profit organizations, and residents to explore the state of housing in the county, solutions, and incentives.
“Right now, the American dream of owning a home is not attainable for most in Walworth County,” says Walworth County Economic Development Alliance Executive Director Derek D’Auria. “The lack of workforce housing is impacting the health of our communities, our local economy, and our school systems. Our goal is to bring together leaders from across sectors to work side-by-side on solutions to meet the housing needs of our residents.”
The Breaking Ground: Walworth County Housing Summit will take place on Monday, September 25, 2023, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Abbey Resort, 269 Fontana Blvd., Fontana. An optional lunch will be served. This event is open to the public. Registration is required; please register at https://bit.ly/WalCoHousingSummit. Questions may be directed to WCEDA at 262-564-3212.
A 2023 housing study conducted by the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SEWRPC) on behalf of Walworth County found that demand for housing in the County will grow over the next several decades. A few takeaways from the study illustrate the County’s housing challenges:
- The County is expected to add 16,500 households by the year 2050, creating a long-term demand for about 17,000 additional housing units.
- In the near term, there could be a demand for over 5,600 additional housing units in the County by 2030. When compared to the number of housing units developed in the County over the last 10 years—about 3,700—it shows that there is much work to be done.
- The median annual household income in Walworth County is about $69,400. According to the Wisconsin Realtor’s Association, the median sales price of a home in Walworth County was $316,250 in 2022. A household would need to have an income of at least $90,000 a year to afford the home.
To view the full study, visit Housing for a Healthy Walworth County.
QPR Suicide Prevention Training to be Held at Health and Human Services
(ELKHORN, WI): In recognition of September as National Suicide Prevention Month, Walworth County Health and Human Services will host suicide prevention training for anyone over the age of 16.
QPR—or Question, Persuade, Refer—is practical, proven suicide prevention training that empowers people to recognize the signs of crisis in others and provide potentially life-saving intervention and support. Just as people trained in CPR save thousands of lives each year, people trained in QPR learn how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade, and refer someone to help.
“Suicide is complicated and tragic and often preventable,” says Walworth County Public Health Specialist Patty Stritesky. “Knowing the warning signs for suicide and how to get help can save lives. Throughout September, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention awareness. Taking part in suicide prevention training is a simple yet impactful step that anyone can take to make a difference.”
This free suicide prevention training is scheduled for Wednesday, September 27, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., at Walworth County Health and Human Services, 1910 County Road NN, Elkhorn. Space is limited; registration is not required but strongly encouraged. You may register by visiting https://bit.ly/3PrzApR, emailing walcoph@co.walworth.wi.us, or calling 262-741-3200.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis support or chat 988Lifeline.org for connection with a trained crisis counselor.
The Whitewater Tennis Team celebrated Parents’ Night with a 6-1 win over Edgerton on Thursday, September 14. Whitewater’s one loss of the night ended in a 10-8 third set tiebreaker. The team is now 4-0 in conference play and is looking to finish the regular season next week strong against Delavan and East Troy.
Singles:
- No. 1 – Emilia Houwers def. Forfeit 2-0, 2-0
- No. 2 – Jackie Franco def. Hailey Wileman 6-3, 6-4
- No. 3 – Liz Servin def. Natalie Veitenheimer 6-1, 6-2
- No. 4 – Vicki Ramirez def. Vanessa Hernandez 4-6, 6-0, 11-9
Doubles:
- No. 1 – Maritza Vidales & Stephanie Wence def. Samantha Aleson & Isabella Edgington 6-4, 6-0
- No. 2 – Leah Newmann & Vanesa Wence def. Chloe Obermueller & Caitlyn Phillips 7-6 (5), 6-4
- No. 3 – Isabel Aranda & Aimee Servin lost to Hailey Aleson & Lexy Brunner 6-2, 5-7, 10-8
Article and Photo Submitted by Baron West
Whitewater High School Head Tennis Coach
bwest@wwusd.org
The Whitewater Volleyball team lost to Jefferson in 5 sets (25-18, 24-26, 25-23, 24-26, 10-15) on Thursday, September 14. Coach Mary Kilar stated, “I felt like we came out and played solidly and were in control of the match through the first couple sets. Our defense was solid and we passed well for most of the match. We have to begin to finish teams in 3 or 4 sets, because going to a 5th set to 15 points becomes anyone’s game. I was definitely pleased with our energy and commitment to each other tonight. Unfortunately, when games get tight we still resort to playing with the “not to lose” mentality, versus a “play to win” mentality. That confidence has to develop. As I told them in the huddle, I felt they battled. We just need to work on closing out matches early, and playing with confidence. We look forward to playing everyone in the conference two times, so these tight battles will hopefully fall our way soon. As always this is a team that will get back in the gym and fight hard to get better every contact. That hard work will eventually pay off with some solid wins.”
“I feel we are starting to see some great leadership on both offense and defense. We are definitely a strong defensive team, and our backcourt of Ella Spear, Ava Alvarado, Calli Grosinske, Zoe Kohl, and Falyn Krahn keep us battling in matches. Spear led the team in digs with 23 and tied with a team high 4 aces. Krahn added 12 digs, 7 kills, and 4 aces, and Kohl posted 15 digs and 3 aces. Emmanuella Mbifi and Meg Roselle got their hands on a ton of balls while blocking tonight, each posting 2 blocks a piece. This is exciting to see develop. Marina Linos led with a great team attitude, dishing out 19 assists, 7 digs, 2 blocks, and 3 aces. Calli Grosinske works hard to see open shots and make solid shot selections from both front and back court. She posted another double-double with 16 kills and 20 digs, 2 aces, and 1 block.”
“Tough losses like this can make or break teams, but as I told them tonight there is nothing to hang their heads about. Some calls did not go our way, and some great saves fell short. We need to keep our positive attitude because we are a good team, and if we keep working hard, the wins will come.”
Article Submitted by Mary Kilar
Whitewater High School Head Volleyball Coach
mkilar@wwusd.org
Steve Watson writes, “The morning of Sept 9. Temperature 48° and Foggy. A plethora of spiderwebs adorning the barrier on the Wisconsin St. scenic overlook.
Ok you arachnologists.
Look what’s in this morning mist.
Webs aplenty shape and size.
Dew drops let us scrutinize.
Webs of death for little guys.
Spiders weave these deadly traps.
To catch a snack or lunch perhaps.
Webs are woven almost every day.
Shiny for attraction,
Not for interception.
To catch their prey.”
Our thanks to Steve Watson for yet another fascinating nature photo compilation.
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WHITEWATER- September 12, 2023- Whitewater Leads is excited to announce that they are expanding their ability to improve literacy for children within the Whitewater area.
Over the past six years, through their partnership with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Whitewater Leads has given away over 24,000 free books to children from birth until their fifth birthday within the Whitewater area.
Through the increase of donations, Whitewater Leads was able to expand to give four elementary literacy grants last school year. The recipients of the Whitewater Leads elementary literacy grants for the 2022 – 2023 school year were Shannon Frye – kindergarten teacher at Lincoln Elementary, Lisa Kaminski – reading interventionist at Lincoln Elementary, Jill Whitney – fifth grade teacher at Washington Elementary, and Jacquie Sedmak – fourth grade teacher at Lincoln Elementary. Shannon Frye stated, “The Whitewater Leads Grant allowed me to purchase Boogie Boards to be used in the classroom. The Boogie Boards allow students to write, draw, and trace on an easy to use and clean device. These boards are a welcome addition to our classroom to practice literacy skills and more. Boogie Boards are a liquid crystal paper and allow students to write without the need for paper or messy ink (like dry erase boards). They erase completely at the click of a button. My classroom is grateful for the purchase of these boards to enhance our literacy program.” More information about each grant winner from the 2022 – 2023 school year is available on the Whitewater Leads website, whitewater-leads.org.
This school year, Whitewater Leads plans to give away up to six literacy grants to Whitewater Unified School District staff. These grants will give WUSD students additional literacy opportunities.
Molly Fuller, Whitewater Leads co-president stated, “ We are extremely excited to be able to expand our ability to help kids in our community. Being able to raise enough money to give away over 24,000 free books is an absolute honor. Now, to be able to give away literacy grants to help our elementary aged students is a dream come true.”
To apply for a literacy grant worth up to $500, WUSD staff can submit their grant proposal to whitewaterleads@gmail.com. If you have a child/children who are not yet five, live in the Whitewater Unified School District area, and would like to receive free monthly books, you can sign them up at imaginationlibrary.com today.
Whitewater Leads, Inc. works to support literacy, in all of its diverse forms, throughout and within the boundaries of the Whitewater Unified School District of Whitewater WI.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
This view of Main Street in Whitewater dates from c.1920. One good way of dating Main Street photos is by looking at the old Commercial Bank building, left center. This building was constructed in 1914 for the new Commercial and Savings Bank, established 110 years ago in 1913. Of course, the bank became just the Commercial Bank, which more recently became the PremierBank. The bank moved from this distinctive Classical Revival building to a modern bank building designed in an even more distinctive Wrightian contemporary architectural style where it is located today.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(#5492PC, Whitewater Historical Society)
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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