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Whitewater Falls to Delavan-Darien in 4 Sets

September 8, 2023

The Whitewater Volleyball team fell to visiting Delavan-Darien (14-25, 16-25, 25-23, 21-25) on Thursday, September 7. “This was a disappointing loss. We prepared well with film; we just didn’t play our game tonight. We failed to control the ball on serve receive, passing only a 1.6, and saw ourselves out of system way too many times. Our communication broke down, and we played most of the night tight. We had some great rallies, but costly errors at unfortunate times saw us playing from behind most of the night. We didn’t capitalize on our game plan, and that cost us. However, it really is early in the season, and we will continue to put the work in to get better every single day. It truly will be a matter of staying focused and positive so we can peak at the right time.”

“This team works hard, they put in the time and effort every day at practice. We won’t shy away from that, and we will continue to put in the work to get stronger and better each day. I have confidence in this group; I just want them to play with that same confidence!”

Calli Grosinske put up another double-double on the night with 12 kills and 21 digs. Marina Linos led us in assists with 14. Ella Spear had 3 aces, and Meg Roselle and Zoe Kohl posted two blocks apiece.

Next up, the Whippets travel to Dodgeland for a tournament on Saturday, September 9. Then they play two away matches at Monroe and Jefferson next week.

Article Submitted by Mary Kilar
Whitewater High School Head Volleyball Coach
mkilar@wwusd.org

Whitewater Fire & EMS Open House & Pancake Breakfast

September 7, 2023

Whitewater Fire & EMS Pancake Breakfast/Open House

Mark your calendars for this Sunday, September 10th, 7 AM to Noon! Come hungry and curious to our Pancake Breakfast/Open House event.

Feast on a delicious breakfast while discovering the exciting transformations at Whitewater Fire & EMS since the passing of our staffing referendum, and our recent transition to a paramedic service.

No fixed cost for the breakfast – just a heartfelt donation of your choice. Your support means the world to us!

On the menu: Pancakes, Eggs, Sausage Links, Milk, OJ & Coffee – yum!

This year’s fundraiser aims to equip our first responders with cutting-edge multi-gas meters. These devices detect various gases, from oxygen to carbon monoxide, ensuring top-notch safety for our community.

Join us for an educational experience too! Explore our Fire Truck Display, Ambulance Display, and even hop on The Orv for some Fire Extinguisher Training. Plus, don’t miss the thrilling Fire Truck Rides!

A big THANK YOU to the amazing citizens of Whitewater and surrounding towns. Your unwavering support has fueled our progress this past year. We can’t wait to continue serving you with pride!

Whitewater Pride Rally Set for October 21; Vendor Booths Available

September 7, 2023

Editor’s Note: The following was prided by Whitewater Pride.

The third annual Whitewater Pride Rally will be held Saturday, Oct. 21 at Cravath Lakefront Park in downtown Whitewater.  This free event, which will include music, entertainers, speakers and family-friendly activities, will take place from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. rain or shine.

Lakefront Park provides space for additional activities and vendor booths. The organizing committee, composed of representatives from the community, Whitewater Pride, Whitewater Unites Lives, UW-Whitewater’s PB Poorman Pride Center, and Whitewater High School’s Gay Straight Alliance, encourages those who wish to show their support of all members of our community and especially our LGBTQ+ neighbors, to participate. Organizations will be able to share information about their groups, and businesses, restaurants and others will have an opportunity to sell their products.

 A vendor agreement (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSesC-PMV8ziic8ymv4M05Vd16apxFWe70Jn5BFROoz1C9GhQA/viewform) is available to those who wish to support Pride in the Whitewater community. The submissions are due on Sept. 30. The form can also be found at www.whitewaterpride.org

Proceeds from the Pride Rally will be used to help keep this event free for all attendees and will be used to support LGBTQ+ youth in our community through the Whitewater High School Gay Straight Alliance and UW-Whitewater’s PB Poorman Pride Center. For more information, contact Camden Harlan at charlan@whitewaterpride.org or Robin Fox at robinkfox@gmail.com

#FlashbackFriday with the Historical Society: Esterly School circa 1900

September 7, 2023

It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.

School started this week, so it’s time for a vintage school photo. This image was taken of 4th graders in the Esterly School, probably around 1900. Notice the fine marble fireplace in the schoolroom. That is because the Esterly School was located in the old Esterly mansion on the site of the old Franklin Junior High School at the end of Center Street. The Esterly School opened in 1894 and operated until 1927, when the site was used for the new Whitewater High School that included classrooms for grade schoolers. The grade schoolers were in the old High School building until the 1950s, when the Lincoln School was built.

Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.

(#5515PC, Whitewater Historical Society)

Swimmers Host Edgerton/Evansville

September 7, 2023

The Whippet Swimmers hosted their first home meet on Thursday, September 7, against Edgerton/Evansville. Charlotte Hajewski started off the meet with the National Anthem. What a beautiful voice she has!  

The Whippets had some impressive top 3 finishes which included:

  • 200 Medley Relay – Maggie Mass, Emerson Dunham, Makayla Bazeley, Charlotte Hajewski (1st) 
  • 200 Freestyle – Maggie Mass (2nd) 
  • 200 IM – Makayla Bazeley (1st) 
  • 50 Freestyle – Charlotte Hajewski (3rd) 
  • 100 Fly – Makayla Bazeley (1st)
  • 100 Freestyle – Emerson Dunham (1st) 
  • 500 Freestyle – Charlotte Hajewski (3rd) 
  • 200 Freestyle Relay – Adalynn Frye, Payton Peacock, Atreya Wilson, and Lucy Davis (3rd) 
  • 100 Backstroke – Maggie Mass (2nd) 
  • 100 Breaststroke – Emerson Dunham (2nd) 
  • 400 Freestyle – Charlotte Hajewski, Maggie Mass, Emerson Dunham, and Makayla Bazeley (2nd)

Some best times include:

  • Georgia Esch in the 200 Freestyle
  • Sanibel Fox-Simes in the 50 Freestyle (dropped 3 seconds) 
  • Charlotte Hajewski in the 50 Freestyle 
  • Emerson Dunham in the 100 Freestyle 
  • Adalynn Frye in the 100 Freestyle 
  • Marijose Verduzco had a quick split in the 200 Freestyle Relay

Shout out to a few of the girls for trying some new events. Lucy Davis tried two new races including the 200 IM and the 100 Fly. These are some pretty tough races and she did both in one night! Zoe Zei tried the 200 Freestyle, and she ended up loving it. And lastly, the birthday girl, Atreya Wilson, tried the 500 Freestyle. We are looking forward to seeing these girls try a few more new events this season! 

The Whippets are in Elkhorn for the Elkhorn Invite on Saturday September 9. We hope to see you all there!

Article and Photo Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
sreynolds@wwusd.org

Soccer Tops Racine Park in Defensive Battle

September 7, 2023

​When Division 2 team Racine Park came to Whitewater, we knew that we were in for a defensive battle, but your Whippets put on a clinic on how to defend as a unit. 

Rosenberg Escobar

The first half saw 40 minutes of soccer that was dominated by an attacking Racine Park. WHS’s defense held strong, and keeper Phoenix Jones made some crucial saves. 

The second half was much more evenly matched with Whitewater still playing primarily a defensive role. With 10 minutes left in the game, Park was exhausted and the Whippets were able to put them under sustained pressure. The high pressure eventually led to a defensive mistake that allowed Ethan Dugan to play a dangerous ball into the box that was put into the back of the net by a Racine Park defender. 

Please join us Thursday night (tonight) for a rivalry game that promises to be an engaging match vs Delavan-Darien. JV1 game @ 4:45 p.m., Varsity @ 6:45 p.m.

Whitewater:

  • 79’ Goal by Ethan Dugan
  • Phoenix Jones 9 saves
  • Casey Schlicher 3 saves

Racine Park:

  • Jonny Babrba-Lopez 5 saves

Article Submitted by Sam Burns
Whitewater High School Head Boys’ Soccer Coach
dburns@wwusd.org
Photo Courtesy of Bob Mischka

Annual State of the City & Schools Addresses

September 6, 2023
Dr. Corey A. King
Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty
John Weidl

Annual State of the City and Schools Addresses

Hosted by the League of Women Voters Whitewater Area

The League of Women Voters Whitewater Area is excited to host its annual State of the City and State of the Schools Addresses on Thursday, September 21st, 6:30- 8 PM, at the Cravath Lakefront Community Center, 341 S Fremont St, Whitewater. 

Presenters include Whitewater City Manager John Weidl, WUSD Superintendent Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, and UW Whitewater Chancellor Dr. Corey A. King. Audience members will have an opportunity to ask the speakers questions following their presentations. 

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!

WMS Teacher John Schimming Honored with Inspiring Educator of the Year Award

September 6, 2023

WMS Teacher John Schimming Honored with Inspiring Educator of the Year Award 

At its August 29 All-Staff Kick Off Event, the Whitewater Unified School District recognized John Schimming as this year’s recipient of the WUSD Inspiring Educator of the Year Award.

Schimming is a seventh-grade math teacher at Whitewater Middle School. He is known for his mentorship to his students and the many colleagues, athletes, and community members with whom he interacts. He also has an active role in growing the Whitewater wrestling program, specifically the girls’ division. 

“On behalf of our entire school district community, I would like to congratulate John on earning this well-deserved award for the 2023-24 school year,” said Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, Superintendent. “During his time in our district, John has had an incredible impact on our students, families, and community. He is someone who is dedicated to his craft and who truly cares about ensuring students have the opportunities they need to thrive. A big thank you goes out to John for all he does, each and every day.”

The district considers nominations for the annual award from its teachers and staff. A WUSD Inspiring Educator of the Year is an individual whose work exemplifies the district’s core values and demonstrates best practices in the field of education. 

The recipient provides students with exceptional learning experiences and unique opportunities, demonstrating a commitment to helping them achieve their highest potential. 

Obituaries

Obituary: Marion Jauch Burrows, 96

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

Obituary: Patricia “Pat” Bailey, 70, of Woodbury, MN

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

Obituary: Gemelino Paris Esperante, 83

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

Obituary: Mary Ann Warner, 86, of Dodgeville

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

Obituary: Patricia Jacobson, 81

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

Obituary: Lois Lauritzen, 92, of Brookfield

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

Obituary: Donald Walter Triebold, 91

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

Obituary: William Kincaid Davis, 84, of Evansville

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

Obituary: Magdalene “Maggie” Stetter (nee Fritz), 79

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

Obituary: Lawrence “Larry” C. Hartung, 76, of Fort Atkinson

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