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Today is Wednesday, October 7, 2026
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Homepage photo courtesy of Tom Ganser
The Greater Whitewater Committee (GWC)’s 14th annual Discover Whitewater Series (DWS): Half Marathon, 5k, 5k teams, and Fit Kid Shuffle was a success raising money for local charities.
Runners once again have the opportunity to experience the DWS course as it winds through the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater campus and scenic areas of Whitewater. One of the most exciting highlights of race day is crossing the finish line inside Perkins Stadium, where participants can celebrate their accomplishment on the 50-yard line. The course gives runners a unique way to experience Whitewater while showcasing the community, campus, and scenery that make this race special.
This year, the DWS brought in 507 participants, 180 volunteers and nearly 70 sponsors. The DWS team was thrilled to welcome runners from so many different areas! The weather was rainy and cloudy with temperatures in the upper 50s and low 60s.
Whitewater Unified School District Superintendent Samual Karns kicked off this race morning with opening remarks and words of encouragement before sending participants off for an exciting day of racing. The DWS team was thrilled to have Superintendent Karns, Chancellor Corey A. King, and City Manager John Wiedl all together to help celebrate another year of the DWS and welcome runners, families, volunteers, and community members to the event.
As the 2026 USA Track & Field Wisconsin Half Marathon Championship Race, the DWS recognized the top Wisconsin finishers in both the Open and Masters divisions. The USATF awards highlighted the performances of the state’s leading runners, with trophies presented to the top Wisconsin male and female finishers in each division, Open and Masters.
| The top runners in the Open Class:Women: 1:19:36.80- Runner 1958 Jessa VictorMen: 1:07:45.47- Runner 1822 John Dewitt | The top runners in the Master’s Class:Women: 1:21:12.22- Runner 1952 Jenny ZwagermanMen: 1:19:53.03- Runner 1965 Paul Hartwig |
The 5K Teams competition brought an extra level of excitement and team spirit to this year’s race, with teams of four competing in both the Student Organization and Business/Sponsor/Community. Both winning teams earned a traveling trophy with their team names engraved and have the opportunity to hold on to it until next year’s race. There were other categories that recognized teams for their creativity and enthusiasm that came with delicious coupon prizes!
| Top Student 5K Team:Whitewater Dream Team 18:19.96- Runner 2702 Sam Manak 18:32.97- Runner 2500 Ben Burie19:44.59- Runner 2517 Douglas Droessler | Top Business/Sponsor/Community Team:PremierBank 120:13.09- Runner 2709 Keenan Joyce22:06.13- Runner 2595 Christopher Martin23:41.91- Runner 2583 Joel Kohl |
To see all race results, make sure to visit: https://runwhitewater.com/
Due to all the hard work given by the volunteers and sponsors, the 14th Annual DWS achieved its mission once again of bringing people together in support of a wonderful cause. All proceeds will be distributed to the DWS’ five charity partners: Bethel House of Whitewater, J-Hawk Aquatic Club, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Foundation of Athletics, Whitewater LEADS, and Whitewater High School’s Future Business Leaders of America. The current plan is to present each charity with its check at the DWS banquet in November.
“I want to thank all of our runners, volunteers, sponsors, and partners for helping make this event possible,” said race Director Dawson Miller. “The DWS is about more than just crossing the finish line, it’s about bringing our community together. I am so proud of the work that gets put into this race; it’s incredible.”
The DWS team would like to thank all who came out in support of the race. The entire community has been a part of such an amazing event that has greatly helped charities across Whitewater.
The Planning Committee is already starting on next year’s race! Save the date for September 19, 2027 for the fifteenth anniversary of the Discover Whitewater Series. Stay tuned for updates!
About the DWS
The goal of the DWS is to promote the City of Whitewater and highlight its greatest features, while keeping everyone in the community active. All the proceeds from the race are donated to local non-profit partners: Bethel House (which provides interim housing for homeless families), J-Hawk Aquatic Club, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Foundation of Athletics, Whitewater LEADS and Whitewater High School’s Future Business Leaders of America. The DWS partners with the city, business community, and university to make this a tremendous event that benefits all who participate. For more information about the race visit www.runwhitewater.com.
VIP Services is launching its annual autumn food drive to raise awareness about hunger in Walworth County and generate donations of nonperishable food items and pet food for area residents and their companion animals facing food insecurity.
Donations are currently being accepted at Culver’s, Associated Bank, Walgreens and Ace Hardware in Whitewater. All three locations have collection bins set up in their lobbies, and the public is encouraged to stop by with contributions of nonperishable food and pet supplies.
The drive will culminate on Thursday, October 8, with a day-long collection event open to the public in the church hall at St. Patrick Church in Whitewater. Community members can drop off their donations on that date between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM.
All donations collected throughout the drive will directly benefit the Whitewater Community Space.
For more information, please contact VIP Services at vipservices-inc.org.
According to a press release from the Village of Palmyra, a public works employee was hurt on Monday morning, October 5 when hit by a vehicle at approximately 10:15 a.m. Paul Blount, the public safety director, indicated that the staff member was struck while preparing to paint lines in the intersection of West Main and Fourth streets.
Blount said officials determined the public works employee was hit by a vehicle while preparing to paint lines in the intersection. Two department vehicles and multiple public works employees were in the area at the time, wearing bright green reflective clothing. It was reported that the injured employee was alert and able to answer questions before being transported to a local hospital.
The driver stayed on scene and spoke with officers. The Palmyra Police Department cited the driver, Blount said. He reminded drivers to slow down and pay attention when driving through work zones.
Paul Blount told The Whitewater Banner on Tuesday afternoon that the employee was treated and released from a local hospital.
The Water Utility will conduct its semi-annual water main and hydrant flushing program from Monday, October 12 – Friday, October 23, 2026.
This routine maintenance is essential to:
- Test fire hydrants to ensure proper flow and pressure
- Confirm hydrants and valves are working correctly
- Improve water quality by clearing sediment from the water mains
Important Notes for Residents: - You may notice temporary discoloration in your water after flushing. If this occurs,
run an outdoor spigot or a cold-water tap at the lowest level of your home for
several minutes until the water clears. If needed, repeat the process after a short
wait. - To prevent staining, avoid washing white or light-colored laundry during
flushing periods or until your water runs clear. - For best results, consider waiting until flushing crews have moved out of your area
before using water.
If additional system repairs are required, flushing may extend into the following week.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this important maintenance activity.
Josh Hyndman, Superintendent
Water Utility
jhyndman@whitewater-wi.gov
(262) 473 -0560
Versiti is the primary blood supplier for Southeastern Wisconsin hospitals, including Aurora Lakeland Medical Center and Fort Memorial Hospital. They are also the primary provider for all of the veterans’ hospitals in the state.
Who can donate blood? You, if you’re 17 or older, 110 lbs or more, in good health and not experiencing cold or flu symptoms. (If you’re 16, you can donate with your parent/guardian’s permission.) There is no upper age limit.
To book an appointment you may use the above QR code, visit versiti.org or feel free to call Lynn at 262-473-2997.
Editor’s note: This is a paid advertisement by Ketterhagen Motor Sales and Nelson’s Bus Service.
Homecoming returns to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater on Oct. 19-24 as alumni, students, faculty, staff, and community members get set to renew old friendships, start new connections, and show their Warhawk pride during the annual festivities.
“We are excited to welcome the entire campus, our alumni and local communities to UW-Whitewater for Homecoming 2026,” said Amy Oeding, senior director of alumni engagement and Homecoming co-chair. “There is fun for everyone at this year’s event. Whether you’re an alum, student, employee, neighbor, friend, or family member, we invite you to join us, experience our traditions and celebrate what makes the Warhawk family so special.”
After a week full of student events on campus, a spirit rally and bonfire start the weekend on Friday, Oct. 23. Open to the entire campus, alumni, and local communities, the spirit rally includes music by DJ Ree Maniac, also known as UW-Whitewater alum Kyree Brooks, who earned a BSE in physical education in 2017, and student org competitions. A beer garden — where the new UW-Whitewater Warhawks Light Ale from Duesterbeck’s Brewing Company will be available for purchase — will be open to guests 21 and older.
The Homecoming parade and UW-Whitewater football game highlight the Saturday, Oct. 24 slate. The parade begins at 10 a.m. and includes themed floats scored by a panel of judges. The Warhawk Marching Band and spirit squads join alumni groups, student organizations, and community businesses in marching at the parade. The football game begins at 1 p.m. and showcases the nationally ranked Warhawks against UW-Stevens Point.
The Homecoming theme, Purple Reign, brings 1980s-inspired fun to the Whitewater campus, including a concert by the BoDeans at The Young to cap Saturday’s events. The band — which originated in nearby Waukesha — has been playing for more than 40 years.
Students will participate in events throughout the week building up to the weekend, including the annual student talent show on Thursday, Oct. 22, at The Young. Approximately 15 students serve on the Homecoming steering committee, playing key roles in the planning and execution of the week’s events while driving attendance from student organizations and groups.
“Our students take the lead in bringing Homecoming to life, carrying forward beloved traditions while creating new memories of their own,” said Angela Meldonian, executive director of the University Center and Homecoming co-chair. “They’re excited to welcome alumni, faculty, staff, families and community members to campus and invite everyone to share in the energy and spirit of the week.”
Visit the UW-Whitewater Homecoming website for more information on Homecoming 2026, including a full schedule of events.
Obituaries
Sally A. Schutte, age 73, of Whitewater, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 21, 2026, while at Hearthstone Memory Care in Whitewater. Sally was born on November 6, 1952, to Roy and Elsie (Rohloff) Haas. Sally married William Schutte in the spring of 2003. Sally grew up on the family farm in the Town of Hebron and graduated from Jefferson High School. She dedicated nearly her entire career to Fort HealthCare, where her hard work and versatility shone through various roles. Over the years, she served in housekeeping and medical records, Center for Dermatology. Sally … Read more
Zachariah “Zach” Schoenke, 41, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. He was born April 4, 1985, to Keith W. Schoenke and Kathleen Schoenke in Fort Atkinson, WI. He grew up and graduated from Whitewater High School in 2003. Zach worked various jobs over the years but was currently working at Cracker Barrel in Janesville. He was a big Packers Fan and liked to play fantasy football. He enjoyed reading, cooking, and watching horror shows. Zach fiercely loved his son, Lincoln, his sisters, Cami and Cary, his mom and stepdad, and his aunt Robin. He will be dearly … Read more
Carla Winn, 82, died September 5, 2026. Funeral Service will be at 12:00 PM, Saturday, September 12, 2026, at East Heights United Methodist Church, 4407 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67218, followed by a burial at 2:00 PM at White Chapel Memorial Garden 1806 N Oliver Ave. Carla is preceded in death by her parents, Vivian Dwight and Wilma Lois Krehbiel; and sister, Jennifer Krehbiel. She is survived by husband, Stephen; daughter, Ashley (Clint) Gagel, of Overland Park; siblings, Paul (Kay) Krehbiel, of Socorro, NM, Lynn (Bill) Oetting, of Wichita, Ellen (John) Querner, of Wichita, Teresa Woodson, of Lawrence, KS, … Read more
Susan Miller Celebration of Life There will be a gathering of friends and acquaintances at Susan’s Farm Store to celebrate Susan’s life on Saturday, September 19th from 2-5 p.m. at N6623 Lake Lorraine Rd., Delavan, Wisconsin
Our loving mother, JoAnn E Harrop, age 95, passed away on September 11, 2026. Our sorrow is deep, but we are filled with gratitude for the many years we had with her. Even as her mind was failing, she remained strong and appreciative of all who cared for her. JoAnn was born on January 13, 1931, daughter to Fred Braun and Evelyn Braun {Storck). She was raised in Whitewater, Wisconsin by her grandparents, Otto and Edith Storck. She attended Whitewater High School and helped at the Storck tavern where she met her husband Earl C. Harrop. They married on November … Read more
Russell O. Johnson “Russ,” 88, passed away on September 4, 2026 in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Russell was born on July 12, 1938, in Janesville, Wisconsin. Russ grew up in Janesville, and after high school he joined the Air Force on May 1, 1958, serving as an aircraft mechanic until June 12, 1962. He then worked at Parker Pen in Janesville for a time, where he met his future wife, Avis. After marrying Avis Mason in April 1964, Russ worked for Gillman Manufacturing for a time, then began a career at Dana until its closing in 1980. In 1981, Russ started working … Read more
Marcia Zingg, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, at the age of 75. Marcia will be remembered for her unwavering love, remarkable strength, generous spirit, and lifelong devotion to her family. She shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Jeffrey Zingg, who considered her not only his wife but also his best friend, business partner, and the love of his life. Together, Marcia and Jeffrey built a successful life rooted in perseverance, hard work, laughter, and love. As entrepreneurs in Whitewater, Wisconsin, they owned and managed new car franchises and … Read more
Amanda Jean Hunter was born to Ralph and Malinda (Thomas) Hunter of Whitewater, Wisconsin, on October 6, 1976. She passed away on August 4, in Fort Worth, Texas, where she lived with her family. Amanda passed peacefully in the hospital, surrounded by her loved ones. Amanda was a kind-hearted free spirit with an unmistakable hippie warmth. Generosity, spontaneity, a quick wit, a macabre sense of humor, and an open heart were traits that she embraced. She was a tireless champion of those in need, an innate characteristic that became among the best of her qualities. She proved to be a … Read more
Ellen Eichmiller, 82, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Ellen was born on September 10, 1943, in Monroe, Wisconsin, to Chester “Guy” and Irene (née Holmen) Steig. She married the love of her life, Paul Eichmiller, on December 7, 1963, and together they made their home in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Ellen spent much of her working life as a secretary at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, where she formed many lasting friendships and memories. Ellen cherished her family and friends and treasured the time she spent with those closest to her. She was known for her love of … Read more
Janet Quinn, age 71, of Jefferson passed away on Thursday, August 20th. Janet was born on December 22nd, 1954 in St. Joseph, MI to Robert Mounsey and Edith Christison Mounsey. She was a granddaughter to Herbert Bragg Mounsey, Charlotte Mounsey, and Ester Christison West. She married Michael Durden in 1979 and later married Eury Quinn Jr. (J.R.) in 1988. Janet grew up in Benton Harbor, MI, and subsequently lived in New York and Arkansas before moving to Wisconsin in 2016. She was a dedicated caregiver to her disabled Mother, and worked as a custodian for various employers over the years. … Read more
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