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The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006

Today is Sunday, December 29, 2024

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Our Readers Share: Steve Watson – Curious about a great blue heron’s bait

August 9, 2024

Steve Watson writes, “I’m curious, is this great blue heron using nightcrawlers or wax worms?”

Our thanks to Steve Watson for sharing another of his great wildlife photos.

— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share.  Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!

Seniors in the Park Presents In the Land of Saints and Sinners

August 9, 2024

“In the Land of Saints and Sinners”

Tuesday, August 13, 1 p.m.

(Crime/Action/Thriller)

Rated R (Language/Violence) 1 hour, 46 minutes (2024).

It’s 1974, during “The Troubles.” A disillusioned hit man (Liam Neeson) comes out of retirement for one last job, when an IRA bomber on the run arrives in his sleepy Irish village. Totally filmed on location: an absolutely beautiful depiction of Irish locales, people, music and culture. Liam Neeson considers this one of his best film roles, ever.

Seniors in the Park is located in Starin Park, 504 W. Starin Road. Although there is no charge to attend, regular participants are encouraged to join Seniors in the Park. The annual fee for residents of the Whitewater Unified School District is $10 and non-residents is $15. The funds support about half of the cost of our front desk staff person for 15 hours per week. The rest comes our of our fundraising monies. If you cannot afford the fee, we have a fund that will cover it for you. Fees are accepted at the Starin Park Community Building or online at https://schedulesplus.com/wwtr/kiosk/

Our Readers Share: Mark Dorn – Morning Visitor to Village at Trippe Lake

August 8, 2024

Mark Dorn writes, “She startled me at 6:51 A.M. I did not spill my coffee.”

Our thanks to Mark Dorn for sharing these “startling” photos!

— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share.  Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!

Fats, Oils & Grease Clog Pipes

August 8, 2024

Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Clog Pipes

NOTICE: This is a reminder that fats, oils, and grease (FOG) items should never be put down the sink. FOG are natural by-products of the cooking and food prep process. Common sources include food scraps, meat fats, cooking oils, lard, baked goods, salad dressings, sauces, marinades, dairy products, shortening, butter, and margarine.

In a warm, liquid state, FOG can appear harmless since it flows easily down the drain. However, shortly after it enters the drain, it can quickly cool and turn into a solid that will cause problems in the pipes in your home and in the sanitary sewer system.

Over time, FOG will accumulate along the walls of the sewer pipes. This will restrict the flow of wastewater and can cause sewer backups not only into your property, but throughout your neighborhood.

FOG also contributes to operational issues for our Water Utility such as obstructing flow in the sewers, causing foul odors, interfering with equipment and treatment processes at the Wastewater Utility, along with potentially polluting our lakes and streams.

Please do yourself and the Public Works Departments a favor today by not flushing fats, oils and grease down the sink. The presence of FOG in the sewer system affects everyone in our community!

Brad Marquardt
Director of Public Works
262-473-0139
bmarquardt@whitewater-wi.gov

For other requests, visit https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/RequestTracker.aspx.

#FlashbackFriday with the Historical Society: Young man with bicycle c.1900

August 8, 2024

It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. The second summertime image from the Scholl collection of glass plate negatives from around 1900 is this view of a young man and his bicycle. The collection includes many images of bicycles, a popular new type of transportation around 1900. Not everyone had a horse and/or buggy and most did not have an automobile. In an era when people had to walk everywhere, bicycles gave riders a way to be more mobile.

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

(3664GP, Whitewater Historical Society)

Tom Jewell: Artist Talk & Reception on Thurs.; Donates Three Paintings for Raffle

August 7, 2024
Evening sunset
October sunset
Rocky mountain afternoon

Artist Tom Jewell Donates Three Paintings for Raffle Benefiting Whitewater Arts Alliance

Tom Jewell, August exhibiting artist at the Cultural Arts Center in Whitewater, has generously donated three of his paintings [shown above] to be raffled off in support of the Whitewater Arts Alliance (WAA). This special raffle aims to raise funds for the Alliance and offers art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a piece by Jewell while contributing to a worthy cause.

The raffle will take place throughout the duration of Jewell’s exhibition, with tickets priced at $5 each or $20 for five tickets. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase at the Cultural Arts Center during the entire run of the show, which culminates in a grand drawing on August 29, 2024.

The drawing for the raffle will be held at 3:00 p.m. on the final day of the exhibition. Ticket purchasers will have the choice of any of the three donated paintings, with the selection made from three bins corresponding to each artwork. Winners do not need to be present to claim their prize, making participation accessible to all.

All proceeds from the raffle will directly benefit the Whitewater Arts Alliance, supporting their mission to promote and sustain the arts in our community.

Expressions in Paint, Pastel and Pencil” featuring artist Tom Jewell at the Cultural Arts Center – 402 W. Main Street, Whitewater

Artist Talk & Reception: Thursday, August 8 from 5 -7 p.m.

Tom Jewell‘s artistic journey began during his childhood years in Arizona, where he developed a profound love for the outdoors, animals, and wildlife. At the age of 14, his family relocated to Wisconsin, where he continued to nurture his interests, filling several sketchbooks with landscape and animal pencil sketches.

Pursuing a career in graphic arts, Tom attended Layton College of Art/Marquette University, earning a degree in graphic design and print management. His career as a graphic designer, art director, and print operations manager has been marked by success, and he has always remained true to the influence of his professors at Layton, focusing on refining his fine art painting technique and style.

Throughout his career, Tom has showcased his paintings in numerous art galleries, exhibits, art fairs, and museums. He has held several solo exhibitions, received awards in juried competitions, and his paintings are part of private and corporate collections across Wisconsin and beyond.

Since retiring from his professional career in 2003, Tom has devoted himself to painting, with a focus on landscapes, wildlife, horses, animals, and commissioned human portraiture.

  • Professional Organizations and Activities:
  • Member of Oil Painters of America
  • Member of Whitewater Arts Alliance
  • Published wildlife book illustrator
  • Published annual calendar illustrator
  • Art exhibit judge
  • Commission artist working in watercolor, oil, acrylic, colored pencil, and graphite
  • Technical keynote artist speaker/presenter
  • Instructor for adult art classes and workshops in drawing, watercolor, and acrylic mediums

Join us at the Whitewater Arts Alliance Gallery to experience the exquisite artistry of Tom Jewell and celebrate his contributions to the world of fine art.

Tom illustrated the book “Tig of the Marsh and Wetland”. Copies of this book will be available for purchase in the gallery during the exhibit.

Thompson Center Announces Bridging the Divide Student Leaders at UW-W

August 7, 2024

The Tommy G. Thompson Center on Public Leadership is pleased to announce the selection of its ‘Bridging the Divide’ campus leaders for the 2024 fall semester. ‘Bridging the Divide’ brings students of different ideological backgrounds together to foster civil discourse and understanding across ideological and partisan divisions. The Thompson Center selected 20 students as campus leaders from over 60 applications from all 13 four-year campuses in the University of Wisconsin System. Campus leaders will conduct civil discourse discussion groups once a month on their campuses. Students were chosen not only on the strengths of their academics but also on their experience and passion for leading on civil discourse. They vary from sophomores to seniors and include a wide range of academic backgrounds.

Those who were selected to be student leaders on the UW-Whitewater campus are:

Blake Erwin
UW–Whitewater | International Relations

Gabriel Gotcher
UW–Whitewater | Political Science

Town Hall Meeting for the Walworth County Aging Plan 2025-2027

August 7, 2024

Programs and services that promote the independence of older adults and adults with disabilities play a major role in the health of our community. The Walworth County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is developing a three-year plan on how best to provide services to help older adults remain healthy and independent. This plan will identify priorities and guide the ADRC staff on which programs and services best meet the needs and interests of those living in Walworth County.

The Walworth County ADRC is requesting public input. They would like to know what Walworth County residents think is important for individuals to be as independent as possible and have a good quality of life while they age. The ADRC is hosting a Town Hall Meeting on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 1 p.m. The public hearing will be held in the Walworth County room at the Health & Human Services Department located at 1910 County Road NN in Elkhorn.

A 2025-27 Walworth County Aging Plan draft will be available for public inspection from August 9 through August 22, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Walworth County, 1910 County Road NN, Elkhorn. It will also be available online at www.co.walworth.wi.us/376/Aging-Disability-Resource-Center.

Written comments regarding the draft Aging Plan will be accepted before the hearing. Comments should be directed to Anne Prince, Aging Services Supervisor, Aging and Disability Resource Center of Walworth County, P.O. Box 1005, Elkhorn, Wisconsin, 53121-1005.

Transportation to the hearing is available for persons aged 60 and over. Persons requiring transportation assistance must call VIP Services at (262) 723-4402, at least three business days in advance.

To request interpreter services (language or sign) contact Prince at (262) 741-3400, 1-800-365-1587, or e-mail aprince@co.walworth.wi.us three business days in advance.

# # #

About the Walworth County Aging and Disability Resource Center: The ADRC provides information and assistance to older and disabled adults, their friends, family, caregivers, and the public. We can assist by evaluating your current needs and providing options available to meet the needs of your situation. Learn more at www.co.walworth.wi.us/376/Aging-Disability-Resource-Center.

Obituaries

Obituary: Jean Lucile Zuill, 98

Jean Lucile Zuill, 98, of Whitewater passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at Hearthstone Memory Care. Jean was born on April 20, 1926 in the Town of Lima to Howard and Florence (VanDuser) Hunt. Along with her brother Van, she grew up on their family farm in Lima. She graduated from Whitewater High School in 1944. For a short time, Jean worked at the Parker Pen Company in Janesville. She married David “Dave” Zuill on August 9, 1947 in Whitewater. Upon marriage and having their two daughters, Janet and Mary, Jean undertook the meaningful job of mother and homemaker. … Read more

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Obituary: Helen Ruth Delaney, 94

Helen Ruth Delaney, 94, of Whitewater, WI, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Heavenly Father on Friday, December 20, 2024. She was born in Bellwood, West Virginia on August 8, 1930, daughter of Henderson C. and Bertha J. (Skaggs) Hamby. She attended Leedwood High School in West Virginia. She attended Cornell University in New York studying economics and business. On April 8, 1978, Helen married Laurence W. Delaney in Rockton, IL. Helen retired as the Manager of a Hallmark gift shop in Greenville SC and previously managed the Stop ‘N Go in Whitewater, WI. Helen was a member … Read more

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Obituary: Barbara E. Mischio, 85

Mischio, Barbara E. May 17, 1939 – December 13, 2024  Barbara Mischio passed away on December 13, 2024, at the age of 85. A spirited mother, educator, artist and friend, Barbara left us after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. She is survived by her husband George, sons Scott, David (Amy) and Greg (Sharon), and grandchildren Jackson, Owen, Sam and Anna. Barbara was born on May 17, 1939, in Carlstadt, New Jersey. She was raised by her mother, Julia, and her stepfather, Louis. She had a younger sister, Geri, whom she grew close to despite their eight-year difference in age.  … Read more

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Obituary: LTC Patrick J. “Pat” O’Connor, 71

LTC Patrick J. “Pat” O’Connor, 71, of Whitewater passed away on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Our House Memory Care in Whitewater. Pat was born March 17 at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. He moved often during his early school days as the family followed his father to different Army posts before settling in Whitewater when Pat was in high school. He graduated from West Point Military Academy and later completed a graduate degree from UW-Whitewater while on active duty. Pat served in the United States Army until his retirement. He took skills developed over decades of military service into … Read more

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Obituary: Florence “Flo” May (nee Arbuthnot) Rhodes, 90, of MI

Florence “Flo” May (nee Arbuthnot) Rhodes, 90, of Grosse Pointe, Mich., and longtime resident of Whitewater, Wis., died Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024, at her home and surrounded by family, having celebrated her birthday nearly three weeks before. Her passing followed the loss of her husband of 62 years, Benjamin Rhodes, earlier this year. Born Nov. 6, 1934, in Janesville, Wis., Flo was the third of four children of George and Irene (nee VanDreser) Arbuthnot. Her parents owned Arbuthnot Dairy in Janesville, Wis. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Arts degree in comparative literature in 1957, … Read more

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Obituary: Charles Aubrey “Skip” Grover, 83

Charles Aubrey “Skip” GroverFebruary 11, 1941 – November 25, 2024 WHITEWATER – Charles Aubrey “Skip” Grover, passed away on Monday, November 25, 2024. He was born in Dent, Minn., on February 11, 1941, the youngest son of Verlie Evangeline (nee Babcock) and Cyril Erwin Grover. His older sisters Elaine, Elizabeth and Verna Mae, and older brother, Duane (Cyril Duane) all predeceased him. Skip attended University of Minnesota – Moorhead for his undergraduate degree. He joined the U.S. Army National Guard in Minnesota and continued to serve after transferring to California. Skip went on to receive his Ph.D. in Theatre Research … Read more

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Obituary: Lloyd Grant Worden, 82

Lloyd Grant Worden, 82, was surrounded by his loving family when he was called to be with his Savior in Heaven on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at Fort Memorial Hospital. Lloyd was born on February 28, 1942, to Grant and Edna (nee Wilks) Worden.  He was baptized a child of God on April 5, 1942, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.  Growing up in Kenosha, WI, he graduated from Bradford High School and went on to graduate from UW-Milwaukee.  After college he served in the United States Army for two years.  He went on to work for 40 years as a store … Read more

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Obituary: Becca (Nash) Piper, 65, of AZ

Becca Piper, 65, of Sedona, AZ died on November 21, 2024 as a result of complications of antibiotic toxicity. She was preceded in death by her beloved son Michael and her parents Reg and Maydean Nash. She is survived by her dear husband of almost 40 years, Ken Piper, along with her children Joe, ^^Michael^^, Selena and Larry, granddaughter Maelyn and Becca’s siblings David and Janet (Nash) Schenck. She is also survived by extraordinary friends, extended family and much loved colleagues. Being a mother was especially important to Becca. She and Ken adopted all of their 4 children.  Becca’s life … Read more

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Obituary: Will Daniel Ensslin, 77

In Loving Memory of Will Daniel Ensslin Whitewater, WI – Will Daniel Ensslin, 77, passed away peacefully on 11-26-2024, surrounded by his loving family, after a brave and long battle with cancer. He was born on February 5, 1947 in West Allis, WI to Willy and Ellen Ensslin. Will was a devoted husband, proud and loving father, cherished brother, uncle, cousin and loyal friend to many. He was also a proud Vietnam veteran, serving his country with courage and honor as a Huey helicopter mechanic from 1966 – 1967 — a dedication to service that remained a cornerstone of his life. He married the love of his life and best friend, Susan Bilkovich, in 1971 in Milwaukee, WI. Shortly after their wedding, … Read more

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Obituary: Richard Allen Splitter, 80, of MO

Richard Allen Splitter, age 80, of Blue Eye, Missouri, passed away November 12, 2024. He entered this life on June 16, 1944, the son of Edward and Berniece (Craig) Splitter in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Richard proudly served our country in the United States Navy for two terms. During his time in the service, he was able to get his master’s degree in engineering from California State University of Long Beach. During his working years, Richard was an engineer for different aerospace companies. He retired to Blue Eye, Missouri, and thoroughly enjoyed lake life. Richard appreciated the outdoors and loved hiking, fishing, … Read more

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