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Today is Tuesday, May 12, 2026
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UPDATED 10/27/25 @ 8:45 a.m. to delete the Urban Forestry Commission meeting. Becky Magestro, city chief of staff, indicated that the commission will now be meeting every other month. The city website currently indicates that there will be a City Market on Tuesday; however, as was indicated on the Banner, the outdoor season ended last week. The indoor market will begin on November 8.
City of Whitewater Finance Committee – Tuesday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Update on Health Insurance, Final Review of Draft 2026-2027 Budget, and
Discussion on City Manager’s authority to create positions.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar: You are invited to a Zoom webinar!
Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82065707749
Phone one-tap:
+19292056099,,82065707749# US
Join via audio:
+1 312 626 6799 US
Webinar ID: 820 6570 7749
Whitewater Unified School District Annual Budget Hearing – Monday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda (Click on “meetings” in upper right corner.)
Whitewater High School Library
534 South Elizabeth Street, Whitewater, Wisconsin
5:30 p.m. via Zoom Online
– URL: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85941058417?pwd=yAQOnSKjXuz0Eaiw8ZzWqzoMnpvjnS.1
– Passcode: 094807
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– Dial-in: 1-312-626-6799
– Webinar ID: 859 4105 8417
– Passcode: 094807
Whitewater Unified School District School Board – Monday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda (Click on “meetings” in upper right corner) includes naming of Washington tennis courts, approval of tax levy and budget, CLOSED SESSION regarding personnel matters, followed by return to open session.
Whitewater High School Library
534 South Elizabeth Street, Whitewater, Wisconsin
6:00 p.m. via Zoom Online
– URL: https: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84603777093?pwd=EB04qrtjVoIRXeLJXoBXR0zZaQUiJs.1
– Passcode: 214922
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– Dial-in: 1-312-626-6799
– Webinar ID: 846 0377 7093
– Passcode: 214922
The Whippets capped their 2025 campaign on a high note Friday evening, October 24, at the WIAA Sectional Meet in Cambridge. In what many would consider perfect fall racing conditions — 52 degrees, sunny, calm, and on a fast, runner-friendly course — the team delivered its best collective effort of the season. The rolling, wooded trails of Cam Rock Park produced season-bests for many and lifetime bests for others.
Boys’ Recap
Freshman Tyler Carollo once again led the Whippets, finishing 42nd in 17:57 in his first postseason race. The pack of the team’s 2–5 runners ran together deep into the race. Wyatt Esch emerged as the No. 2 runner, placing 76th in 19:12. Seniors Quinton O’Toole and Isaiah Mendez went head-to-head one final time, crossing nearly together — Quinton 82nd in 19:33.1 and Isaiah 83rd in 19:33.8. Marcus Roselle battled to 85th in 19:35.
Sam Nickelsburg turned in the race of his life with a 94th-place finish in 21:31. Angel Kilar rounded out the lineup in 95th with a time of 21:49. The boys placed 14th overall.
Girls’ Recap
As she has all season, Virginia Nelson led the girls’ squad and matched Tyler’s team placing — 42nd — finishing in 21:17. Melody Smith, racing in spikes for the first time, dropped a significant chunk of time to place 66th in 22:13. Ema Aranda surged late, passing numerous runners en route to 68th in 22:19. Senior Delaney Hammack ran strong and steady to finish 75th in 22:49.
Running together for much of the race, Peyton Comfort placed 88th in 24:28, senior Payton Brautigam closed her career with a lifetime PR of 24:38 for 90th, and Madelyn Taylor, filling in as the alternate, finished 91st in 24:53. The girls placed 13th out of 15 teams.
With no athletes advancing to the WIAA State Meet, the sectional meet concludes the season for the Whippets.
Full results: https://my.raceresult.com/368477/results
Article Submitted by Chad Carstens
Whitewater High School Head Cross Country Coach
ccarstens@wwusd.org
Pictures Courtesy of Heather Hammack
The City of Whitewater will be upgrading its phone system on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 4:30 p.m. -10:00 p.m. During this upgrade some phone lines will be out of order. Citizens needing to reach the Police Department for non-emergency matters can call 262-903-9530. If you are unable to get through at that number and have a time-sensitive concern, or in the event of an emergency, please call 911.
We appreciate your patience as we make improvements to better serve our community.
| Virginia Coburn and Dawn Hunter are leading the ongoing fundraising initiative for the Caryl Yasko Fund for Public Art, in partnership with the Whitewater Arts Alliance. Their efforts support the preservation of the Prairie Tillers Mural and help promote future public art throughout the community. “Caryl Yasko’s work has shaped the visual identity of our town,” said Virginia Coburn, a charter member of the Whitewater Arts Alliance. “This fund is our way of honoring her vision and keeping Whitewater’s public art vibrant and alive for generations to come.” The Prairie Tillers Mural, located at the corner of Center Street and Whitewater Street, is a cherished public artwork that celebrates Whitewater’s rich history, natural landscape, and enduring community spirit. Originally painted in 1980 by nationally recognized muralist and longtime resident Caryl Yasko, the mural began to fade within a decade due to the porous brick surface and exposure to the elements. By 1989, it had deteriorated significantly and was nearly lost. In 2004, a comprehensive restoration effort was launched: the wall was cleaned, reinforced with wire mesh, and resurfaced with three coats of concrete and stucco before the mural was carefully repainted. A re-dedication ceremony was held on September 26, 2004, to celebrate the restored work. In the summer of 2025, the Prairie Tillers Mural received much-needed upkeep and repair to preserve its vibrant presence in the community. Restoration efforts included the application of a UV-protective coating to maintain the mural’s vivid colors, along with the repair and repainting of damaged plaster in key areas. The project was funded by the Caryl Yasko Fund for Public Art, held by the Whitewater Arts Alliance. Dedicated to preserving Whitewater’s public art and supporting future installations, the fund continues to welcome contributions. Fundraising is ongoing, and community support remains vital to keeping these cultural landmarks vibrant and well cared for. “The Prairie Tillers Mural has always been more than paint on a wall—it’s a symbol of Whitewater’s creative spirit and history,” said Dawn Hunter, the Alliance’s founding president. “I’m proud to help ensure its preservation and to support future public art that continues that legacy.” Caryl Yasko’s artistic legacy spans decades and includes dozens of murals, as well as concrete sculptures, windmills, and flagpoles created for schools and cities across the country. Her work is known for its emotional depth, bold compositions, and community-centered approach. In addition to her public art, Yasko has a deep passion for native plants. She has planted prairie settings around many of her installations and often incorporates prairie flowers into her designs—bringing together ecology, history, and visual storytelling. The Prairie Tillers Mural remains one of Whitewater’s most cherished landmarks and was instrumental in the founding of the Whitewater Arts Alliance. Its continued care reflects the community’s commitment to honoring local art and artists. Donations are needed to support ongoing maintenance and future restoration efforts. Heartfelt thanks go to DLK Enterprises for the loan of a lift truck, Schneider Bros. Plasterers for their expert work, and Emeritus Professor Sue Messer for her generous assistance to the artists. To support the Caryl Yasko Fund for Public Art, donations can be made by check to the Whitewater Arts Alliance (PO Box 311, Whitewater, WI 53190) or online atwhitewaterarts.org/caryl-yasko-public-art-fund. Please note “Caryl Yasko Public Art Fund” on your contribution. For more information, Contact: Kim Adams, Gallery Director, Whitewater Arts Alliance Phone: 608-201-2151 Email: wwartsalliance@gmail.com Website: whitewaterarts.org Gallery Hours: Thursdays-Sundays, 12 pm-4 pm Please Note: The gallery is closed outside of Gallery Exhibit Hours except for special events and is also closed when no show is currently running. “20 Years of Celebrating the Arts and Creating Community!” |
Please join the Whitewater Public Library for the following October programs:
Halloween Bingo
Thursday, October 30th at 3:00 p.m.
Cravath Lakefront Building
Ages 5-11
Goblins and ghouls, you are invited to try your luck at Halloween Bingo! Will you win tricks or treats? No one knows! Bingo is geared towards children 6-10 years old, but older and younger siblings are always welcome! No registration is required, but bingo cards are first come, first served. Please contact Deana Rolfsmeyer at (262) 478-2588 with any questions.
Teen Cemeterrariums
Friday, October 31st at 1:30 p.m.
Cravath Lakefront Building
Ages 12-18
Make your very own cemetery in a terrarium. A cemeterrarium! Jars, trappings, and headstones provided by the library. Ghosts must be acquired on your own. This program is open to teens ages 12-18. Please register via our event calendar: https://whitewaterpl.librarycalendar.com/events/month
Limit 15 participants. Please contact Deana Rolfsmeyer at (262) 478-2588 with any questions.
Please note that the library is still closed for construction and both programs will take place at Cravath Lakefront Building, 341 South Fremont Street.
From the Social Security website:
Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for 75 million Americans will increase 2.8 percent in 2026. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by about $56 per month starting in January.
Over the last decade the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) increase has averaged about 3.1 percent. The COLA was 2.5 percent in 2025.
Nearly 71 million Social Security beneficiaries will see a 2.8 percent COLA beginning in January 2026. Increased payments to nearly 7.5 million people receiving SSI will begin on December 31, 2025. (Note: Some recipients receive both Social Security benefits and SSI).
“Social Security is a promise kept, and the annual cost-of-living adjustment is one way we are working to make sure benefits reflect today’s economic realities and continue to provide a foundation of security,” said Social Security Administration Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano. “The cost-of-living adjustment is a vital part of how Social Security delivers on its mission.”
Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. For example, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) is slated to increase to $184,500 from $176,100.
Social Security begins notifying recipients about their new benefit amount by mail starting in early December. Those who have a personal my Social Security account can view their COLA notice online, which is secure, easy, and faster than receiving a letter in the mail. You can set up text or email alerts when a new message–such as your COLA notice–is available in your my Social Security account.
You will need to have a personal my Social Security account by November 19 to see your COLA notice online. To get started, visit www.ssa.gov/myaccount.
Information about Medicare changes for 2026 will be available at www.medicare.gov. For Social Security beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare, the 2026 benefit amount will be available via my Social Security’s Message Center starting in late November. Those who do not have an online my Social Security account will receive their COLA notice by mail in December.
Help Support the Starin Park Splash Pad & Park Enhancement Project! 
The City of Whitewater is applying for a Wisconsin Department of Administration Non-State Grant to help fund a new splash pad and park enhancements at Starin Park — creating a free, safe, and inclusive space for children and families of all ages and abilities to enjoy.
Earlier this year, the City conducted a community-wide parks and recreation survey, and the Starin Park Splash Pad was identified as the most requested project by residents. Your feedback helped shape this plan, and now we need your help again to make it a reality!
We’re asking for letters of support from community members, local organizations, and businesses to demonstrate the strong community backing for this project.
How to help:
Please email your letter of support to kboehm@whitewater-wi.gov by Tuesday, October 28, 2025. In your letter, share why this project matters to you, how it will benefit families and visitors, and why you believe investing in Starin Park is important for Whitewater’s future.
Together, we can make Starin Park a place for everyone to play, cool off, and connect! 
#WhitewaterWI#StarinPark#CommunitySupport#SplashPad#ParksAndRecreation#GrantProject
Editor’s note: This announcement appeared on the Whitewater Parks & Recreation Facebook page.
“Sinners”
Tuesday, October 28, 1 pm
(Folk Horror/Period Drama/Supernatural/Thriller)
Rated R (language/violence/frightening & intense)
2 hours, 17 minutes (2025).
Our annual Halloween horror film has received multitudinous accolades and awards season buzz. It has a high Rotten Tomatoes rating of 97 (critics) / 96 (audience). And Oscar buzz.
It’s a good, old fashion rip-roaring monster movie. Please be advised to bring your own crucifix, garlic, silver bullets, and a wooden stake. Just sayin’…
Mark will have Halloween treats!
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 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/
Obituaries
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
Come celebrate William Kincaid’s Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 30th at 1 pm at Trippe Lake Park Pavillion in Whitewater. He truly enjoyed gatherings where his favorite foods and music could be enjoyed with some of his closest friends and family. We will honor him by carrying on one of his favorite traditions. Please bring your own beverages and chairs. There is limited seating. See you all there!
Gladys Jean (Riley) Hildebrandt, age 89, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 23, 2026. Gladys was born on December 26, 1936, in Whitewater, Wisconsin, to Theresa Egnoski Riley. She was married to Walter Sobolik Sr., and later married James A. Hildebrandt in 1976. Gladys was a hardworking woman who spent her life caring for others. She worked in school kitchens, restaurants, factories, and cleaning services. She concluded her working career as a full-time nanny. In that role, she lovingly cared for Andrew, Daniel, and Kaitlyn Drzewiecki, who became part of her chosen family. Gladys is survived by her sons, Wally … Read more
WHITEWATER – Nan Rowley died on April 15, 2026, at the age of 90. She was born on September 4, 1935, in a little house on the prairie in the Town of Johnstown, Wisconsin, the daughter of Wayne L. Wilbur and Florence (McQuillen) Wilbur. Nan attended primary schools in the towns of Johnstown and Richmond and in the City of Whitewater. Nan graduated with honors from Whitewater City High School. On June 19, 1954, Nancy and Ken Rowley were united in marriage in Whitewater and went to live on the Rowley family farm in Richmond. Over the years, Nan served … Read more
Marion H. Gorniak (nee Pfeiffer), 74, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 11, 2026. She was born on October 24, 1951, to the late Harvey and Loraine (nee Drifke) Pfeiffer in Fort Atkinson, WI. On June 2, 1969, she was united in marriage to Alan Gorniak. She enjoyed gardening, flowers, and cooking, especially her rhubarb pies. She especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends and will be missed by all who knew her. Those Marion leaves behind to cherish her memory include her husband, Alan Gorniak; stepson, Alan Bauer; sister, Sue Ann Schultz, other relatives and friends. … Read more
Ruth Irene (Phelps) Justis, 88, of Appleton City, Missouri, passed away Friday morning, April 10, 2026, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg, MO, with her family by her side. Ruth was born June 3, 1937 in Janesville, Wisconsin, to Charles and Ada Mae (Maly) Phelps. She joined the Marine Corps in 1956. During her time there, she met and married her husband, Forest Wayne “Wayne” Justis in 1957. They shared 62 years of marriage and to this union, 2 children, Charles and Dorene, were born. Ruth grew up in Whitewater, WI., the oldest of three children. Ruth graduated from … Read more
Dorothy C. Kau, age 101, of Eagle, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Fort Memorial Hospital. Dorothy was born on March 18, 1925 in Eagle on the family farm, the daughter of John and Katherine (Faestel) VonRueden. Dorothy was a 1942 graduate of Palmyra High School. On May 21, 1949, Dorothy was united in marriage to Alvin E. Kau at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Eagle and the Lord blessed their union with 8 children. Alvin and Dorothy enjoyed 50 years of marriage together until Alvin’s death in the year 2000. Dorothy enjoyed being a farm … Read more
Dorothy E. McCracken, 95, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, in Sarasota, Florida. Born on April 14, 1930, in Whitewater, Wisconsin, to Carl and Joyce Meyer, Dorothy grew up in Whitewater and graduated from Whitewater High School. She then worked for a photographer and hand painted his first colored portraits, until she got married. She and her first husband, Bernard Wafle, owned and operated a 179-acre dairy farm in Helenville, Wisconsin, for 25 years before relocating to Ocala, Florida, in 1979. Dorothy later married Earl McCracken, in Ocala, Fl. She also shared a special companionship later in life with … Read more
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