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Today is Tuesday, June 23, 2026
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The Whitewater Girls’ Tennis Team moved to 2-0 in conference play on Tuesday after defeating Big Foot at home 7-0.
Singles:
- No. 1 – Emilia Houwers def. Lauren Decker 6-0, 6-0
- No. 2 – Jackie Franco def. Easton Gregory 5-7, 6-4, 14-12
- No. 3 – Liz Servin def. Kara Rees 6-1, 6-3
- No. 4 – Vicki Ramirez def. Gabby Klein 6-1, 6-2
Doubles:
- No. 1 – Isabel Aranda & Stephanie Wence def. Robin Cronin & Hannah Grever 7-6 (4), 6-4
- No. 2 – Vanesa Wence & Leah Newmann def. Addie Larson & Mia Nor 6-1, 6-2
- No. 3 – Lillian Navejas-Ortiz & Ariadna Gonzalez Cervantes def. Ryann Grunow & Mya Gonzalez 6-3, 7-6 (1)
Article and Photo Submitted by Baron West
Whitewater High School Head Tennis Coach
bwest@wwusd.org
The closure for paving and culvert replacement on County Highway N which extends from the western end of Walworth Street was originally projected to be completed by August 31. Now the Rock County Public Works Department indicates that they do not expect this work to be completed until September 29.
Meanwhile, according to reports on social media, some drivers have been ticketed for failing to observe the detour. One person stated that he got a $175 citation for simply driving the very short distance to County Line Road to make a delivery to the mobile home park.
September 19, 2023 is National Voter Registration Day
The League of Women Voters Whitewater Area is a proud supporter of the National Voter Registration Day and will provide Voter Registration education and assistance in Whitewater, Fort Atkinson, and Delavan, in celebration of this nonpartisan civic holiday.
Founded in 2012, National Voter Registration Day was designed to create a day each year when the entire nation focuses on registering Americans to exercise their most basic right – the right to vote.
According to U.S. Census data from 2020, as many as 1 in 4 eligible Americans are not registered to vote. Every year, millions of Americans find themselves unable to vote because they miss a registration deadline, don’t update their registration, or aren’t sure how to register. National Voter Registration Day wants to make sure everyone has the opportunity to vote.
Please tap into the League’s collective expertise with all your voting concerns on this special day. League members will be staffing tables at the following locations and times on Tuesday, September 19th:
10 AM – 2 PM Aram Public Library, 404 E Walworth Ave, Delavan
11 AM – 1 PM Irvin L Young Memorial Library, 431 W Center St, Whitewater
11 AM – 1 PM UW Whitewater University Center, Table A, 190 Hamilton Green Way
3 PM – 5 PM Dwight Foster Public Library, 209 Merchants Ave, Fort Atkinson
4 PM – 7 PM Whitewater City Market, 301 W Whitewater St
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!
Editor’s note: The above press release was received from the League of Women Voters – Whitewater area.
Mary Hardin-Baylor, #3 in D3football.com’s preseason poll, fell to #23 UW-River Falls by a score of 22-45 on September 2 at River Falls. Reportedly MH-B lost many of their leading players and are fielding a younger squad. The team has won three D-III championships, most recently in 2021.
As previously reported, the #11 Warhawks beat #19 John Carroll by 27-23 on September 2. UW-W will face MH-B in week #3 in Texas.
Did you know that more than half of women over age 50 experience issues with bladder or bowel control? These problems can be slightly bothersome or totally debilitating. For some women, the chance of embarrassment keeps them from enjoying many activities and can take control of their life.
A popular workshop in Rock County can help! “Mind Over Matter: Healthy Bowels, Healthy Bladder” is a workshop designed to give women, age 60 and older, the tools they need to take control of their bladder and bowel symptoms. The workshop provides information, group activities, and simple exercises and dietary changes to practice at home. The workshop consists of three, 2-hour sessions over the course of a month.
Dedication to the series of three classes is required. This is a workshop for females, taught by a female.
The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Rock County invite women to join them for a “Mind Over Matter” series at the Daniel Williams Resource Center (where the ADRC is located) at 1717 Center Avenue in Janesville, Wisconsin. The series will occur on three Monday mornings from 10:00 am -12 pm on: September 11, 25 & October 9, 2023. Suggested donation is $10 to cover cost of materials. Space is limited, so register early to reserve a spot! Registration deadline is September 6th !
To learn more, or to register for the series, contact Health Promotion
Coordinator, Lisa Messer, of the ADRC of Rock County at: 608-757-5309 or email: lisa.messer@co.rock.wi.us.
Editor’s note: Although first priority is given to Rock County residents, the ADRC staff has indicated to the Banner that residents of other counties are welcome to participate when space is available. Interested women living in Jefferson or Walworth county should contact Lisa to confirm whether space is available.
Former UW-W Head Football Coach Lance Leipold joined the University of Kansas as head coach in May 2021. Bret Bielema, former UW Head Football Coach, hired on in the same position at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in December 2020. The teams coached by the two men will meet for the first time on September 8 in Lawrence, Kansas.
This article titled “Leipold and Bielema’s shared history informs KU’s approach to Week 2” in kusports.com may be of interest to readers.
Friday night, September 1, saw a closely contested and hard-fought game for Whippet Soccer’s 1st annual youth night. Your Whippets never gave up after going down 2-0 and fighting back through a sensational hat trick from Sebastian Cuellar Meza to see things tied at 3 with 10 minutes remaining. Another comeback was necessary when in the 76’ minute Rosenberg Escobar tied things up for Whitewater again at 4-4.
Two minutes from full time, Living Word Lutheran scored the final goal of the contest, thus sealing their chances for victory. It was a tough loss but you can bet that we will be ready for another hard-fought match on Tuesday when we host Racine Park.
Whitewater:
- 27’ goal by Sebastian Cuellar Meza assisted by Sebastian Alvarez
- 41’ goal by Sebastian Cuellar Meza assisted by Rosenberg Escobar
- 70’ goal by Sebastian Cuellar Meza assisted by Chris Cortes\
- 76’ goal by Rosenberg Escobar assisted by Ethan Dugan
- Casey Schlicher 3 saves
- Phoenix Jones 2 saves
Living Word Lutheran:
- 14’ goal by Denny Oechsner
- 26’ goal by Ethan Breckenfelder
- 66’ goal by Timmy Bagin
- 72’ goal by Ethan Breckenfelder
- 78’ goal by Timmy Bagin
Article Submitted by Sam Burns
Whitewater High School Head Boys’ Soccer Coach
dburns@wwusd.org
File Photo Courtesy of Bob Mischka
Get ready to embark on a captivating journey of words, wonder, and tales at the much-anticipated Whitewater Storytelling Festival. This enchanting event is set to take place on Saturday, September 23, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM at Cravath Lakefront Park, where stories come alive and imaginations run wild.
The Whitewater Storytelling Festival promises an entertaining day for attendees of all ages, with fourteen talented storytellers and musicians for the young and young-at-heart. From children’s stories and interactive activities that will spark the creativity of the little ones, to all-ages storytelling sessions that will captivate audiences of every generation, this festival truly has something for everyone.
But that’s not all! Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a diverse vendor market showcasing unique products that carry their very own stories, adding a touch of narrative charm to your shopping experience. The festival grounds will come alive with the melodies of live music from renaissance musician, Nazario Chickpeazio, with belly dancer, Èowyn, and the traditional Irish tunes of Cead Mile Failte.
Indulge in delicious eats and treats from a variety of food trucks serving both lunch and dinner. Then, as the sun sets, gather around the inviting glow of the campfire for tales sure to give you a spook and also warm your heart.
Above all, the Whitewater Storytelling Festival is a celebration of the magic of storytellers. This event celebrates their craft, their dedication, and their ability to transport us to worlds beyond our own.
Mark your calendars for the Whitewater Storytelling Festival on Saturday, September 23, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, at Cravath Lakefront Park. This is a FREE family-friendly event offering an opportunity to be immersed in stories.
For updates and sneak peeks:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/whitewaterchamber | www.facebook.com/discoverwhitewatertourism
Instagram: @discoverwhitewater
Website: www.whitewaterchamber.com/whitewater-storytelling-festival
About the Whitewater Storytelling Festival
The Whitewater Storytelling Festival is an annual event dedicated to celebrating the art of storytelling in all its forms. From children’s stories to campfire tales, the festival aims to honor the tradition of storytelling while embracing new narratives and voices. With a vibrant vendor market, live music, and engaging activities, the festival is a testament to the enduring power of stories to inspire, entertain, and connect.
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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