The Jefferson County Spring Clean Sweep will be held on Friday, April 10 from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 11 from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. at the Jefferson County Parks Shop, 1555 South Industrial Drive in Jefferson. The event is open to households, farms, and small businesses to properly dispose of their hazardous waste.
We require phone pre-registration (920-674-7430) for this event. Households and farms, please register by Wednesday, April 8 at 4:00 p.m.; you are welcome to bring items from multiple residences/families. Small businesses, please register by April 3 or earlier. You will complete an inventory record of items you have and will receive an estimated disposal cost (based on weight) payable at the event.
Fees for households and farms are $10 cash per trunkload, $50 cash per truckload, and $100 cash per truck and trailer. Businesses may pay by credit card or company check. Additional fees are charged for tires, cylinders, and large quantities of light bulbs.
New for 2026, we are accepting one-pound propane cylinders. Jefferson County is excited to add this service and provide a safe recycling option for residents. The cost is $5 per cylinder.
Please note: Unused prescription drugs, electronics, appliances, and latex paint will not be accepted at this event. Latex paint may be dried out and tossed in your trash; empty paint containers should be recycled.
Candidate for City Council District 4: Brian Schanen
I am seeking re-election on April 7 to the Whitewater Common Council representing District 4 on the city’s west side because of my deep love for this community. If re-elected, I am committed to addressing affordability, expanding business opportunities, and ensuring transparency in local government.
Growing up I was involved in Boy Scouts, earned the highest rank of Eagle Scout, and helped my dad on his hobby farm. I learned the importance of honesty, respect, hard work, civic engagement, and servant leadership. These are values that I live every day, that I bring to my campaign and are central to my work on council.
My wife Heather and I met as students at UW-Whitewater and quickly fell in love with the community. While the university brought us here, it was the people, businesses, and events that made us stay. We are avid supporters of local businesses, events, and organizations – a Friday night fish fry at Rick’s, a Sunday morning breakfast at Jessica’s, a birthday at Fanatico’s, Tuesday trivia at Beer Here, a 4th of July on Cravath lakefront, Kiwanis Pancake Day, Cars & Coffee in the Kettle Moraine, the Fire Department pancake breakfast, a movie at Cinemas of Whitewater, busy restaurants after a Warhawk or Whippet win (among many, many other things) these experiences aren’t small, they are what makes Whitewater special.
As your council representative, I prioritize listening to residents, asking questions, and digging into the details. Whether it’s a small neighborhood concern or a long-term city plan, I work to ensure decisions are thoughtful, informed, and in the best interest of our community. I strongly support our residents, city staff, and our fire, EMS, and police departments.
First Term Accomplishments Over my first term representing Whitewater’s west side meaningful progress has been made. • Expanded owner-occupied housing, with over 50 new units well underway • Strengthened programs to rehabilitate aging homes and convert rentals back to owner-occupied housing • Supported business growth in the business park, with multiple developments in progress • Expanded business retention visits citywide, helping support projects like a major expansion at Lavelle • Increased access to healthcare through a partnership with Edgerton Hospital that brought an urgent care into the city. Since then, Edgerton Hospital has also opened a new pain clinic here. • Improved transparency by reducing closed sessions, increasing public notice visibility via social media, and expanding lake committee participation
Vision for a Second Term Affordability is one of the biggest challenges facing our community. I am focused on responsible budgeting and easing the property tax burden for residents. At the March 17 Council meeting, I introduced a series of ideas to improve accountability and control spending, including: • Placing limits on when the city can go to referendum • Capping the level of city debt • Making better use of funds as the result of tax increment districts to help all residents. • Increasing transparency when it comes to the number of city employees • Other ideas can be seen in the council agenda item
If re-elected, I will work to move these ideas forward immediately, along with strengthening our ethics code to increase accountability.
As a member of the Finance Committee, I am also advocating for a clearer and more strategic approach to capital planning—ensuring we can maintain our roads, lakes, and parks while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.
Supporting local businesses is another key priority. I want to simplify processes like permitting and licensing so business owners can focus on growth. For example, I believe we should streamline duplicative approval processes that currently require multiple committees to review the same items.
We must continue building on the momentum in our business park by attracting high-quality employers that create good-paying jobs without overburdening city resources.
I will continue to be an advocate for owner-occupied housing, the lakes, and local healthcare.
I have more information on my priorities on my Facebook Page.
Voting Information
If you live on the west side of Whitewater (wards 6-8), I respectfully ask for your vote on April 7.
In-person absentee voting at the Municipal Building begins March 24 and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through April 2, and until 5:00 p.m. on April 3.
For full voting details, and to see what is on your ballot please visit myvote.wi.gov.
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Brian Schanen. The Whitewater Banner welcomes a submission to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com from Common Council, School Board or Town Board candidates for the city and nearby towns.
The internationally acclaimed musical Kinky Boots is stepping into town in a dazzling new national tour! With a score by pop icon Cyndi Lauper and a heartwarming book by Harvey Fierstein, this Tony Award–winning show celebrates friendship, acceptance, and the courage to be yourself. Inspired by a true story, Kinky Boots follows Charlie Price and the fabulous drag performer Lola as they join forces to save a struggling shoe factory with a bold new line of high-heeled boots. Packed with unforgettable songs, electrifying choreography, and a powerful message about embracing what makes us unique, this joyful production promises an evening of laughter, heart, and high-stepping entertainment.
Kinky Boots is not rated R. The show is known for its uplifting themes and positive portrayal of characters, making it suitable for a broad audience. It has won multiple awards, including the Tony Award for Best Musical, and is recognized for its joyful and heartwarming story.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic—grab your tickets today and get ready to raise a heel! Tickets, which start at only $25, may be purchased online here. They also may be purchased at Ticket Services in the Greenhill Center for the Arts, 950 W. Main Street, Whitewater. The office is open Monday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The phone number is 262-472-2222. There is a small surcharge for tickets purchased at the door. Parking is free; the most convenient lot is generally #2, south of Main Street on Prince Street.
SAVE 20% WITH PROMO CODE: YoungBoots20!Discount valid for a limited time and subject to availability. Not valid on previouslypurchased tickets or in combination with other offers. Some restrictions may apply.
On Friday, March 20th at approximately 5:41 PM, Lakeside Fire-Rescue and the Rock County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched by the Rock County 911 Center for a reported water rescue at Storrs Lake in the Town of Milton.
A bystander contacted 911 after hearing calls for help and observing four individuals in the water approximately 100 meters from shore. The individuals had been kayaking when their kayak overturned, leaving them in the water. All four occupants were wearing life jackets and were attempting to swim back to shore.
By the time fire crews arrived on scene, all four individuals had safely made it out of the water. Two subjects were evaluated and transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Janesville with non-life-threatening injuries.
This incident serves as an important reminder to the public that although the ice has receded, water temperatures remain extremely cold and can lead to hypothermia within minutes. Wearing life jackets significantly increases the chances of survival, and responders were encouraged to see all individuals properly equipped.
This marks the third water rescue in the past 36 days. Of the eight individuals rescued during these incidents, six have been under the age of 20.
Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by Lakeside Fire-Rescue. The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the home page by Petra from Pixabay.
City of Whitewater Finance Committee – Tuesday @ 5:00 p.m. Agendaincludes Discussion and possible action to recommend Down Payment Assistance Program for Fire/EMS Department Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater Str, Whitewater, WI, 53190 *In Personand Virtual Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone. Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods. Microsoft Teams meeting Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/2262494895281?p=GzbNCvxiqeNZJNGoF7 Meeting ID: 226 249 489 528 1 Passcode: 8y8og7hs Dial in by phone +1 929-229-5663,,840174601# United States, New York City Phone conference ID: 840 174 601#
Aquatic Center Committee – Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m. Agenda includes election of officers; Tour of the Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center. Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center, Large Meeting Room 580 S. Elizabeth St. Whitewater, WI Please note that although every effort will be made to provide for virtual participation, unforeseen technical difficulties may prevent this, in which case the meeting may still proceed as long as there is a quorum. Should you wish to make a comment in this situation, you are welcome to call this number: (262) 473-0108. Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone. Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods. https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/23024647953882?p=0xWG70oJJ3JEQ1YW1K Meeting ID: 230 246 479 538 82 Passcode: pa7ka3GW Dial in by phone +1 929-229-5663,,717102861# United States Find a local number Phone conference ID: 717 102 861#
The Fort Atkinson-Eli Pierce Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution recognized area high school students as “Good Citizens” during a reception on March 5 at the Dwight Foster Public Library in Fort Atkinson. Pictured from left to right are: DAR Corresponding Secretary and Registrar Jessica Punzel; Hannah Werning, Jefferson High School; Madeline Bennett, Johnson Creek High School; Hannah Baldry, Fort Atkinson High School; Madelynn Sherry, Lake Mills High School; Marvin Duarte Garcia, Whitewater High School; Brooklyn West, Palmyra-Eagle High School; and DAR Chapter Regent Janet Stehling. Unable to attend was Danny Swain, Cambridge High School
Pictured with Jessica Punzel of DAR: Marvin Duarte Garcia, Whitewater High School {Left]; Brooklyn West, Palmyra-Eagle High School
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Lightning and Thunder, a Milwaukee husband and wife Neil Diamond tribute act, experience soaring success and devastating heartbreak in their musical journey together. Stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson (Golden Globe and Oscar nominations for Best Actress).
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 $15 and non-residents is $20. The funds support about half of the cost of our front desk staff person for 15 hours per week. The rest comes out 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/
Join us on at The Wright House on April 17 for stories about cats. Folktales, personal stories, puppets. This show is appropriate for cat lovers of all ages. Register on Eventbrite: https://catstories.eventbrite.com
CAITLIN McLEOD (Costume Craftsperson) is a Chicago based puppet, costume, and scenic designer. Recent design credits include: Lookingglass, Raven, Chicago Children’s, Lifeline, St. Louis Shakespeare Company, Virginia Stage Company, Drury Lane, About Face, Teatro Vista, Timeline, Steppenwolf, Rough House, and Writers. Caitlin also works as a freelance craftsperson, creating sculptural costume and puppet pieces for: Actors Gym, Manual Cinema, The Goodman, Lookingglass, Northlight, Cabinet of Curiosity, Oklahoma City Ballet, Writers Theatre, and more. Caitlin is a co-curator of Nasty Brutish and Short: Chicago’s oldest Puppet Slam, a company member of Rough House, and project manager of the Chicago Puppet Studio. Instagram: @CaitlinMcLeodDesign @ChicagoPuppetStudio
Sarah Beth Nelson owns The Wright House and hosts the house concerts. She is an Assistant Professor in the School of Information Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Sarah Beth performs as a storyteller in open mics, festivals, and fringes.
Editor’s Note: The above was submitted by Sarah Beth Nelson.
Caroline Pate-Hefty, who served as Whitewater Unified School District Superintendent for five years, ending in June 2025, has resigned from the same role for the much larger Mannheim Township [Pa.] school district. The landcasteronline newspaper reported that the school board approved Pate-Hefty’s resignation on March 19, 2026. As was indicated in this previous Whitewater Banner article, she had been on leave since mid-February.
The following are excerpts from the Landcasteronline article:
“The Manheim Township school board unanimously approved a resignation agreement negotiated with Superintendent Caroline Pate-Hefty, with the board president saying she was “not the right fit for Manheim Township.”
Board President Patrick Grenter’s brief statement Thursday evening before the vote shed little light on why Pate-Hefty’s tenure ended after less than eight months. He insisted that a clause in Pate-Hefty’s employment contract barring the board from revealing details of any investigation into her leadership was not why the board was providing little information about the reasons for her departure.
“Simply put, confidentiality of this matter would have occurred regardless of this contract language,” Grenter said. “Our employees have rights. They have rights to a fair process and we will uphold those rights. Nowhere in that process does it involve discussion of personnel matters in the media.”
“We are committed to learning from this outcome to strengthen the next superintendent search in partnership with our administration staff and parents,” Grenter said.
Grenter said the board listened to feedback from the school community, worked with its counsel and investigated, acting swiftly to make a change. Yet, as four residents pointed out during public comment, replacing the superintendent is a costly burden.
“We are paying Dr. Hefty through June 30 of this year,” parent Marty Kieffer said. “This means we are paying out $75,000 to someone who is not working.”
“There is a cost of separation that we do not take lightly but are clear that this is the best path forward for the school district administrators, staff and students,” Grenter said before voting to approve Pate-Hefty’s resignation.”
Update 3/20/26 @ 9 p.m. – Reader John D. McLean, City High class of 1959, wrote with this correction: “Your ‘FlashbackFriday’ posting on March 20, 2026 has an address error. The Whitewater Brewery building was on the corner of North Street and Jefferson Street and overlooked the creek. That is one block from Main Street. I grew up on Jefferson Street from 1941 to 1954 and walked past the brewery every day.” Our thanks to Mr. McLean. This website also confirms that location.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. This is an image of the Old Whitewater Brewery, formerly known as Klinger’s Brewery, on fire in 1974. The building was located on the corner of Main and Jefferson Streets and had been closed as a brewery since 1942. The brewery was built in 1862, closed during Prohibition in the 1920s, and reopened in 1933. But, it was too outdated to successfully survive in the 1940s. Its popular beer was known as “Old Cream Top.” The site stood vacant until the later 1980s when a group home facility was built there. Wisconsin had many small, local, breweries in the 19th and early 20th centuries, but they all could not compete with the large beer producers in the mid-20th century.
