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Local Student an Academic All-Midwest Conference Honoree

July 27, 2024

GRINNELL, Iowa — The Midwest Conference (MWC) recognized 1,570 student-athletes as Academic All-Conference honorees for the 2023-24 academic year, announced Monday, July 15.
 
The list of honorees represents nine core member institutions and two affiliates across eighteen league-sponsored sports, including 881 student-athletes participating in men’s sports and 689 student-athletes participating in women’s sports.
 
To be recognized as a MWC Academic All-Conference honoree, a student-athlete must have satisfied a minimum grade-point average (GPA) of 3.33 for the awarded academic year, letter in any of the league’s fall, winter, or spring sports as a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior, and compete on a team that completed a minimum 50% of its scheduled contests.
 
Grinnell College led all institutions with 286 student-athletes receiving Academic All-conference honors, followed by Lawrence University with 177 and Lake Forest College with 166, highlighting the top three.
 
MWC Academic All-Conference honors are announced annually after the posting of spring term grades.

Local Student Honored at Lawrence University

More than 200 Lawrence University student-athletes have earned Academic All-Midwest Conference honors.  Lawrence had a total of 242 student-athletes encompassing 18 teams, nine women’s squads and nine men’s teams. Lawrence football led the way with 23 honorees, and women’s indoor track and field and outdoor track and field had 21 selections apiece to pace the women. Lawrence had 15 female athletes to be honored on three teams, and 11 men picked up the honor for three different teams. Lawrence had a total of 39 multi-sport athletes included in its group.

    To be eligible for the academic all-conference team, a student-athlete must have a minimum 3.33 cumulative grade point average and letter in their sport.

Volleyball
Cora Linos, Jr., Janesville, Wis., Government

Development of 19 New Single-Family Homes Receives Common Council Approval

July 26, 2024

The City of Whitewater is pleased to announce the development of 19 new single-family homes in collaboration with Neumann Developments, Inc. This significant project marks an essential step toward achieving the city’s strategic goal of building 100 new homes within the next five years, enhancing the local community’s growth and vitality.

The development will be located in on Tower Hill Pass and Stonefield Lane. The original development project began in 1999, aiming to create a vibrant residential community in Whitewater. Although progress was made, 19 homes remained unfinished due to unforeseen challenges faced by the original developer. The City of Whitewater’s collaboration with Neumann Developments, Inc. signifies a commitment to completing this vision and fulfilling the promise of a thriving neighborhood.

“The partnership with Neumann Developments, Inc. represents our commitment to expanding our housing options and fostering community growth,” said Taylor Zeinert, the Economic Development Director for the City of Whitewater. “This project not only addresses the increasing demand for housing but also aligns with our strategic plan to develop affordable housing options for all, from young professionals to families and retirees. We are dedicated to ensuring that our community can provide high-quality, affordable living spaces for every stage of life.”

Editor’s note: The above press release was received from the City of Whitewater. This project is being facilitated through the use of Tax Increment Financing on a “pay go structure.” Further information about the agreement, which the Common Council approved at its July 16, 2024 meeting, may be found here (see “closed session.”)

Seniors in the Park Presents Civil War

July 26, 2024

“Civil War”

Tuesday, July 30, 1 pm

(Action/Adventure/Thriller)

Rated R (Violence/Profanity); 1 hour, 49 minutes (2024).

In the near future, a group of journalists attempt to survive while reporting the truth as the US stands on the brink of another Civil War…

Stars Kirsten  Durst, Nick Offerman, Cailee Spaeny.  

Natureland Park Closing Temporarily for Improvements

July 26, 2024

Natureland Park will be closed to the public beginning Monday, July 29, 2024. The park will reopen on Friday, September 6, 2024. Natureland Park is located at W8338 Territorial Road in Whitewater.

During this time, Walworth County Public Works will replace the two parking lots, add concrete walkways at the log cabin, and install a concrete patio for a new ADA-accessible picnic table on the north side of the cabin.

Throughout the project, the park and parking lots will be closed to ensure public safety. The public is asked to drive with caution and be mindful of contractor vehicles and equipment staging by the park entrance on Territorial Road.

During the closure of Natureland Park, the County’s two remaining parks, Price Park Conservancy and White River County Park, will be open for use and scheduling of events. Learn more about our parks at https://www.co.walworth.wi.us/306/Parks

Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by Walworth County.

Gov. Evers Appoints UW-W Grad to Jefferson County Circuit Court

July 26, 2024
Theresa Beck
 
MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers announced today his appointment of Theresa Beck to the Jefferson County Circuit Court – Branch 2. The appointment will fill the vacancy being created by Judge William F. Hue’s resignation. Beck will complete a term ending July 31, 2025.

“Theresa Beck’s breadth of experience and her strong roots in the community will serve her well in this new role,” said Gov. Evers. “She will be a great judge for the people of Jefferson County.”

Beck has been an assistant district attorney in the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office since 2010. In this role, she has prosecuted a broad caseload, ranging from traffic offenses to homicide. She also has gained extensive experience with juvenile matters, including juveniles in need of protection and services and termination of parental rights cases. Prior to her work in the district attorney’s office, she was an attorney at the Law Offices of Monogue & Witt from 2000 to 2008 and a partner at Beck & Kiewit Law Offices from 2009 to 2010. During her time in private practice, she focused on family and juvenile law while also gaining experience with probate, bankruptcy, and guardianship.

“Theresa Beck is a wonderful addition to the Jefferson County Judiciary,” said Jefferson County Assistant District Attorney Brookellen Teuber. “Throughout her career, Theresa has demonstrated her commitment to the rule of law and will treat everyone in her courtroom with dignity and respect.”

Beck lives in Jefferson and is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and Marquette University Law School. She has previously served as the president of the Jefferson County Bar Association, as a member of the Jefferson County Human Services Citizen Review Panel, and was a member of the former Jefferson County Juvenile Drug Court.

“I am humbled and extremely honored to accept the appointment to the Jefferson County Circuit Court,” said Beck. “I am grateful to Gov. Evers for this opportunity to serve the citizens of Jefferson County and for all the support and encouragement I received from my family, friends, and members of our legal community. My commitment to exemplifying our community values remains steadfast while ensuring an impartial, fair, and efficient judiciary.”

Editor’s note: The above press release was issued by the office of the governor on July 26.

St. Patrick’s Country Fest This Sunday

July 25, 2024

#FlashbackFriday with the Historical Society: Four dapper gentlemen downtown in 1914

July 25, 2024

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

This image of four dapper gentlemen in downtown Whitewater has no identification, but we know it is from 1914. How? Behind the gentlemen you can see that the corner building has been demolished. In 1914, the old building on this site was replaced with the new Commercial Bank Building. Most of the buildings in downtown Whitewater existed by 1900, so dating early twentieth century images can be difficult. But if the Commercial Bank or the older building on the site is shown, we can tell if the photo predates or postdates 1914. In this case, we know it was 1914 because the construction was taking place. Note in the background the Walworth Hotel, now the Landmark Building. It was built in 1890.

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

(2210PC, Whitewater Historical Society)

Pedro Mayorquin Landero Jr. Guilty of Two Charges Related to UW-W Campus Assault in 2021

July 25, 2024
Pedro Mayorquin Landero Jr.

Per Fox6now.com on July 23, 2024, “A Jefferson County jury on Monday, July 22 found Pedro Mayorquin Landero Jr., [age 23, now of Crystal Lake, IL], guilty of two charges in connection with an assault that happened on the UW-Whitewater campus in May 2021. Mayorquin Landero Jr. was found guilty of attempted robbery with use of force and battery. The jury found him not guilty of second-degree sexual assault.” Information regarding the testimony in the case may be found in the Fox6now.com article.

Per Wisconsin Circuit Court Access, Judge Bennett J. Brantmeier ordered the defendant’s bail to be revoked, and set a sentencing hearing for 8/2/24 at 9 a.m.

A previous article appeared on the Banner when the suspect was charged. It included the following:

“Per the UW-W Police Facebook page, it was reported that a daylight stranger sexual assault occurred on Saturday, May 22, 2021 at approximately 12:26 p.m. The alleged perpetrator was apparently depicted in surveillance video, and was described as a white male, possibly Hispanic with a tan complexion, in his late teens or early 20’s having an athletic build. The male traveled to and from the assault location on a dark colored soft tail mountain bike. During the assault the suspect stated he was from Virginia. Per Fox6, the alleged assault occurred in the area of UW-W’s parking lot #18. No information was provided regarding the victim or the nature of the assault.

Chief Matthew Kiederlen posted the following on the Facebook page at approximately 8:40 p.m. on May 24: “I want to thank the community and university members who provided information and leads. I am happy to report the alleged offender is currently in custody. I truly appreciate the hard work of the officers involved, the assistance of our City of Whitewater Police partners and the bravery of the individual who came forward. If you ever need assistance please don’t hesitate to contact us!”

Obituaries

Obituary: Jeanette Ila Hansen, 91

Jeanette Ila Hansen, 91, Whitewater passed away on December 24, 2024 at Rainbow Hospice Inpatient Center in Johnson Creek, WI, having lived independently almost all her later life. Jeanette was born on May 12, 1933 in Whitewater, WI to Alvin and Maybell (Maasz) Cox.  She married Norman Hansen on November 2, 1950 and they were married for 59 years.  Jeanette enjoyed fishing, reading, indoor gardening, collecting dolls, and cooking; and she made many beautiful items with crocheting, knitting, and sewing.  She was generous and seemed to have a good word to say about almost everyone she met. She especially loved … Read more

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Obituary: Isaac Richard Unger, 31

Isaac Richard Unger left the field on Christmas Day, and is now at peace. He was born in Whitewater, WI on April 1st, 1993 to Paul and Mary Jo (née Peiffer) Unger. Isaac was born ten days late on a silly holiday, and lived his life as such–never rushed, and with a lighthearted sense of humor. Isaac graduated from Madison East High School in 2011, and then attended UW-River Falls from 2011-2016, where he studied English and philosophy. Isaac was a sports lover, not only as a spectator, but as a participant. Isaac grew up playing soccer, basketball (Badger Sporting … Read more

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Obituary: John George Mack, 61

John George Mack passed away into eternal glory on December 24th, 2024. John was born December 1, 1963, in Fort Atkinson, WI to Ronald and Mary Alice (Hanson) Mack of Whitewater.   John was a 1982 Whitewater High School graduate. In 1983 just out of high school John started his first wood company selling wholesale through all the major gift markets including Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles and New York. At the time his clients included 8 out of the 10 retail chains and several thousand independent stores nationwide. John had so many wonderful customers and associates.   As the wholesale gift market shifted to cheaper overseas … Read more

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Obituary: Clifford Maynard Witte, 103

Clifford Maynard Witte, age 103, of Whitewater, WI completed his earthly journey on December 24, 2024 in his home surrounded by his loving family.  Clifford was born on September 13, 1921 on a farm in Mount Horeb, WI, and was the third child of Ella and Eli Witte.  Clifford served his country by joining the Navy in 1942 during WWII, and served alongside his two brothers. Later he used the GI bill to attend Palmer Chiropractic College in Davenport, IA. There he met the love of his life, Beulah (Billie) Ohrberg, and they married on Nov 7, 1946. Shortly after … Read more

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Obituary: Mary Ann Burkhardt, 79

Mary Ann Burkhardt, 79, passed away December 24, 2024, at Edgerton Hospital, surrounded by loved ones following a brief illness. Mary was born on September 14, 1945, in Chicago, IL, to Raymond and Helen (Pasternak) Burkhardt. She attended elementary school in Chicago and Good Counsel Catholic Girls High School, before her family moved to Whitewater where she graduated from WHS in 1963.  She worked at Gus’s Pizza Palace, Whitewater Products, and finally, Jones Dairy Farm until her retirement 33 years later.  She enjoyed bowling, snowmobiling, boating, golf, riding her motorcycle, and playing softball for the Long Branch Saloon.  She was … Read more

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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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