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(Studio 84 news release – Nov. 5) — Governor Tony Evers announced that $15 million in COVID-19 Cultural Organization Grants has been awarded to 385 cultural organizations across Wisconsin. Studio 84, a nonprofit art studio in Whitewater that specializes in the creative development of people with disabilities is one of these award winners.
“Just like small businesses, cultural organizations have taken a major financial hit,” said DOA Secretary Joel Brennan. “We’re all in this together. We hope that these funds will make it possible for us to be able to enjoy the museums, theaters, and music from these organizations once it is safe to do so again.”
Administered by the Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA), the COVID-19 Cultural Organizations Grant program provides grants to nonprofit organizations whose primary missions are to produce, present, or exhibit cultural disciplines such as music, dance, theater, literature, and the visual arts, or items of environmental or scientific interest. Grant awards can be used to cover pandemic-related impacts such as lost revenue, increased workers’ compensation costs, cleaning and sanitization, and purchases of services or equipment to facilitate telework by employees.
Director of Studio 84, Deborah Blackwell, said, “We are very grateful for this award. We lost almost four months of revenue, and continue to do so even though we are open again with students. In order to keep safe distancing and with reduced staff/volunteer availability we are only able to be open at a 20-30% capacity with artists. Donations became nearly nonexistent and have been slow to come back also. While this grant will assist in a small way to keep us open, we are still in need of donations to keep us moving forward until we can be fully functioning again.” Blackwell states that the artists really missed their programming and are so glad to be back.
You can visit Studio 84 at www.studio84inc.org to donate online or mail in donations to Studio 84, 121 W. Center St. Whitewater, WI 53190
More information regarding the COVID-19 Cultural Organization Grant Program is available HERE. A full list of grant winners is available HERE. Banner note: Per this list, Studio 84 was awarded $8906.41, and Whitewater Arts Alliance, $3855.95.
“The Way Back” (Drama/Sports) – Tuesday, November 10, 1 p.m. only; Rated R (Language)1 hour, 48 minutes (2020) Ben Affleck portrays an alcoholic, former Catholic high school basketball star who returns to his alma mater to coach its losing team. In one of Affleck’s best performances ever, this true-to-life sports drama manages to buck expectations, avoid formulaic sports hokum, and deliver a gripping and realistic narrative on addiction, failure, and recovery. You will be humbled and cheering from the stands. A powerful film with an exceptional cast.
There is a capacity limit, and COVID-19 precautions, including facial mask, are required. Please register in advance online, by email (dweberpal@whitewater-wi.gov), or phone (473-0535).
(UW-W Press Release -11/04/2020)– Brion Nash from Whitewater, WI, who is studying journalism at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, was recognized at the 2020 Best of the Midwest Media Fest.
The event, held virtually Oct. 8, honors broadcasting and video production excellence from Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota and North Dakota. UW-Whitewater students have participated in this conference for the past five years and have won many awards. This year, the group received five first-place awards, two second-place awards and for the fifth consecutive year, a best in show honor.
Nash won first place for “Warhawk Football vs. Monmouth.”
“(Virtual event host) Wisconsin Community Media really enjoys seeing our students participate in this organization and its annual ceremony, which includes many professional community channel operators all over the Midwest,” said Jim Mead, Director of UWW-TV, the university’s campus television station. “The icing on the cake is the opportunity for these amazing students to be recognized for the hard work they do every day here on campus, putting their skills to use.”
SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) at Whitewater High School made a video sharing some Halloween safety tips for the elementary schools. As Jake Martin, Co-President of the group, shared the video, he stated, “I think it’s important for many families to see and learn some things.” Our thanks to SADD for sharing this fun piece.
(Irvin L. Young Memorial Library news release) After several months of being closed to the public and only providing curbside pickup service, the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library will reopen to the public on Monday, November 2. During our closed time, new bi-polar ionization filters were installed in our HVAC system to improve the air quality and additional Plexiglas shields were installed. The Library will provide the following services during the hours listed.
Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
The Library is Closed to the Public – Curbside Pickup Service
Curbside pickup will be moving to the north side entryway on Center Street.
Monday-Friday from 12:30 -7:00 p.m.; Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
The Library is Open to the Public – Services Available
Individuals may:
- Use a computer for one hour.
- Use the photocopier.
- Pick up holds.
- Browse the stacks to choose materials for checkout.
- Make an appointment to use the Makerspace (a separate enclosed space) for no more than two hours.
Unavailable Services
Individuals may not
- Use the library as a gathering place or remain after their business is concluded to read or do work.
- Play in the children’s area.
- Schedule an in-person meeting or event in the Community Room.
- Purchase items from the Friends of the Library Book Shop.
The Family Restroom is available for use. Other public restrooms have been locked. Limited staffing means we can only regularly sanitize one public restroom.
The City of Whitewater passed an ordinance in July that requires that individuals wear masks in public spaces. (Banner note: Gov. Evers’ emergency order requiring masks has been extended to November 21. The city’s ordinance continues through December 31.) People entering the library will be required to wear a mask at all times. If you do not bring one, one will be provided for you. Staff will not provide one-on-one services to people who are not wearing a mask correctly.
If a patron is unable to wear a mask for medical reasons, they will be limited to 15 minutes for use of the photocopier, without staff assistance. Otherwise we encourage those individuals to use our curbside pickup service and digital library materials available from the convenience of home.
Dr. Thomas Gibson named new chancellor of UW-Stevens Point
Appointment takes effect January 11, 2021
MADISON, Wis.—Dr. Thomas Gibson, who served as Vice President for Student Affairs and Vice Provost at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio, has been named the 15th Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, which has campus locations in Stevens Point, Wausau, and Marshfield.
The University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents today unanimously approved Gibson’s appointment, following a recommendation made by a selection committee. Gibson will assume the leadership post on January 11, 2021.
Gibson was hired as Vice President for Student Affairs and Vice Provost at Bowling Green State in July 2016. In that role, he served as an advocate for the academic and social development of students, devised policies for student success, and advised the president and provost on student issues, among other things. He has overseen the Dean of Students office; residence life; diversity, equity and inclusion; student health, wellness and recreation; the women’s center, Title IX, and Clery reporting; and Greek life.
Previously, he was associate vice president of student affairs at Ball State University in Muncie, Ind.; associate dean for student development at York College, City University of New York in New York City; and employed in other roles at York College. Gibson has held numerous other positions related to student success in higher education.
“Dr. Gibson is a fantastic fit for UW-Stevens Point,” said UW System President Tommy Thompson. “I am confident his background in student affairs coupled with his high-energy engagement with everyone he connects with will build an even better university for the entire region and our great state.”
“I am honored to have this opportunity to serve as the 15th chancellor at UW-Stevens Point,” said Dr. Gibson. “UW-Stevens Point has a rich history and culture, and dedicated students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community leaders that I am looking forward to joining.”
“We were fortunate to have a deeply talented group of applicants, which I think speaks to the excellent leadership opportunity UW-Stevens Point represents,” said Regent Karen Walsh, chair of the Search and Screen Committee. “This campus is a vital part of central Wisconsin life, and Dr. Gibson is committed to strengthening those relationships and creating new pathways for student success.”
“Dr. Gibson brings a breadth of experience that has equipped him to lead in a number of areas that are important to UWSP right now, including fund raising and making our campuses more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. As a student affairs professional who also served as Vice Provost at Bowling Green State University, he is well placed to foster increased collaboration between Student Affairs and Academic Affairs,” said UW-Stevens Point Professor of English Mary Bowman, vice chair of the Search and Screen Committee.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Gibson to the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point as UW-Stevens Point’s next chancellor,” said UW Regent President Andrew S. Petersen. “Tom has a terrific professional background and an infectious enthusiasm that will serve him and the community of Stevens Point well as he assumes this exciting leadership position.”
The Special Regent Committee for the UW-Stevens Point Chancellor Search that recommended Gibson to the full Board of Regents includes Regents Walsh, José Delgado, Cris Peterson, and Olivia Woodmansee. President Thompson concurred in the recommendation.
The Search and Screen Committee includes members of the Special Regent Committee; Bowman; Scott Wallace, Professor of Business and Economics, UW-Stevens Point ; Dyllan Griepentrog, UW-Stevens Point student; Denny Peterson, retired Delta Dental president and CEO; and Marc Young, director of recruitment, UW-Stevens Point. Non-voting members of the committee include Julie Tharp, professor of English, UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield, and Ann Herda-Rapp, Campus Executive, UW-Stevens Point at Wausau.
Gibson will earn $247,500 as chancellor.
…
Explore the History of Beer and Brewing in UW-Whitewater’s Online Course Beginning Oct. 19
UW-Whitewater Continuing Education is once again offering its popular online course “Beer Matters.” This six week course is an opportunity to explore the history of beer from medieval times through today. Topics include brewing across the globe, social movements involving beer and today’s brewing conglomerates. Beer lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking to learn more about Wisconsin’s unofficial beverage, and why it matters, are invited to join in online.
“Beer Matters” begins October 19 and is open to anyone 21 and older. Each week of this course will feature a new theme related to beer and will include lectures and discussions. Participants can join in at their convenience and will have the opportunity to discuss their favorite craft brews, share homebrewing resources and events, and get to know each other in the online classroom. We’ll host live “virtual happy hours” with special guests who will share their expertise on topics like fermentation and local brewing history. Karl Brown, associate professor of history at UW-Whitewater and former professional brewmaster in the U.S. and Europe, will teach the course.
Join us this month to learn why beer matters. Bottoms up!
Cost is just $25 for the six-week session. Register online at http://www.uww.edu/ce/beer-matters. Contact Kari Borne at bornek@uww.edu with questions.
Obituaries
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
Leo E. Wurzer, 65, of Eagle, Wisconsin passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at his home. Leo was born on April 15, 1961 in Kenosha, Wisconsin to Cyril and Shirley (McNeil) Wurzer. He grew up between Pleasant Prairie and Antigo, spending his childhood summers on his uncle’s farm where he discovered his love for all things tractors. Although he never had a farm of his own, he was able to partially fulfill his dream by working as a driver for Robin’s Trucking in Whitewater, WI in his last days and collecting miniature Tonka toys. He began his career … Read more
Lois Cummings, 99, of Fond du Lac, WI (formerly of Janesville, WI, Fort Atkinson, WI, Fountain Hills, AZ, and Green Valley, AZ) passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026 at the Meadows Senior Residence in Fond du Lac surrounded by family. Lois was born on February 17, 1927 in Fort Atkinson to Edward and Clarice (Roseth) Stevens. The middle child of 9 children, she attended Fort Atkinson schools and graduated in 1944. On September 11, 1948 Lois married Grant Cummings at Saint Andrew Catholic Church in Delavan, WI. Together they had 3 children, Gary, Colleen (Tom) Sabel, and Patty (Paul) … Read more
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