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Scheduled from July 3rd through July 6th, this year’s 4th of July Festival promises four days of family-friendly fun, patriotic pride, and memorable moments. As part of our festivities, we are inviting individuals, businesses, and organizations to contribute to the success of our event through donations and sponsorships. Your support helps us continue the tradition of providing an unforgettable experience for our community.
In addition to seeking financial support, we are extending invitations for participation in our Fourth of July parade. Whether you’re a local business, a community group, or an enthusiastic individual, we welcome your application to join us in this vibrant procession through the heart of Whitewater. Applications to prior participants have been mailed; all participants are invited to utilize our online registration form available on the festival website or return paper registration forms via the address listed on the form.
We are always on the lookout for dedicated volunteers who share our passion for community and are eager to lend a helping hand. Whether you can assist before, during, or after the festival, your contribution will play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation and success of this community event. Please reach out to us via email at whitewater4th@gmail.com
Make your plans now to enjoy as many of the scheduled events as possible:
Wednesday, July 3
Christman Family Amusements Wrist Band Session: 5-9 PM, $25 each wrist band
Miss Whitewater Pageant at Frawley Amphitheater: 5 PM – 27 contestants registered!
Civic Organization Food Vendors: 5 to 11 PM
Karaoke at Frawley Amphitheater: 8 to 10 PM
Thursday, July 4
Christman Family Amusements: No wristband sessions on 4th of July
Whippet City Mile: 9:45 AM along parade route
4th of July Parade: 10 AM
Civic Organization Food Vendors: 10 AM to 11 PM
Live Music at Frawley Amphitheater:
Polka band 2 pm sponsored by the American Legion Post 173
Sam Rodewald 5 PM to 7 PM
U2 Hype / U2 tribute band 8 PM to post fireworks
Fireworks: 10 PM
Friday, July 5
Christman Family Amusements Wrist Band Session: 5 PM to 9 PM
Civic Organization Food Vendors: 4 PM to 11 PM
Live Music at Frawley Amphitheater:
Cactus Brothers 5 to 7 PM sponsored by TDS
TFK 8 pm to 10:30 PM
Family Day Powered by Generac: Free petting zoo, pony rides, camel rides 4 to 8 pm
Saturday, July 6
Christman Family Amusements Wrist Band Special: 12 to 4 PM, $25 each
Civic Food Vendors: 11 AM to 11 PM
4th of July Car Show 2 PM to 6 PM, 301 W Whitewater Street
Live Music at Frawley Amphitheater:
Jerry Armstrong & Blast to the Past 3 PM to 5 PM
Cead Mile Failte (Irish Music) 5 to 7 PM
Phil 8 PM to after Fireworks
Fireworks 10 PM
To stay updated on festival news and events, including the parade lineup and schedule, you can visit our website.
“We are excited to continue the legacy of this long-standing community event and gathering with our community over this holiday weekend,” says Katie Lehman, Volunteer Coordinator for the Whitewater Fourth of July Festival. “Together, with the support of our generous donors, enthusiastic participants, and dedicated volunteers, we look forward to making this year’s celebration the best one yet.”
For more information on how you can get involved, donate, sponsor, participate in the parade, or volunteer, please visit www.whitewater4th.com or contact us at whitewater4th@gmail.com.
About Whitewater’s Fourth of July Festival: The Whitewater Fourth of July Festival is an annual celebration that brings together residents, visitors, and businesses to commemorate Independence Day with a variety of activities, entertainment, and community spirit. Established many years ago, the festival has become a cherished tradition, symbolizing unity, patriotism, and the vibrant spirit of Whitewater.
Editor’s note: The above announcement was provided by the Whitewater 4th of July Festival Committee.
By Broderick Frye
Asst. Sports Information Director
Warhawks Advance to 2024 Championship Series with 5-2 Win
Holland’s 8th-inning home run broke up the tie to lead the Warhawks to victory.
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater baseball team takes Monday’s game two over Salve Regina, 5-2. With the win, the Warhawks advanced to the NCAA DIII Championship Series against Misericordia. A best of three game series will decide the 2024 DIII Baseball National Champion.
In the game against Salve Regina, a quick three-and-out bottom of the first gave the Warhawks some momentum heading into the second inning. Danny Hopper (Palatine, Ill./Palatine) led the inning off with a double and Sam Paden (Libertyville, Ill./Libertyville) hit him in two batters latter to open up the scoring for the Warhawks.
The Seahawks tied it back up after a solo home run from Tyler Cannoe. In the top of the third, Bennett Frazer (Oconto, Wis./Oconto) led off with a double, but the Slave Regina defense got out of the inning, stranding him on second.
The Warhawks responded right back defensively, with a three-up-three-down to get out of the third inning.
The Warhawks regained the lead in the top of the fourth, with Paden hitting his second double of the night, scoring Andy Thies (Tallahassee, Fla./Lawton Chiles). But Salve Regina tied it right back, with a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the fourth.
The game remained tied 2-2 for the next three innings, with neither team able to put together a rally. Max Huseboe (Ripon, Wis./Ripon) came in to relief Jack Hagen (San Clemente, Cal./San Clemente) in the bottom of the 7th, taking the Salve Regina side down in order for his first inning.
In the top of the 8th, Aaron Holland (Wheaton, Ill./Wheaton North) got the momentum back on the Warhawks’ side. Holland sent a lead-off homer the opposite way to finally break the tie and putting the Warhawks up 3-2.
After Holland’s homer, the Warhawks tallied three straight singles from Eli Frank (Bayport, Wis./Bay Port), Adam Cootway (DePere, Wis./Fox Valley Lutheran), and Danny Hopper (Palatine, Ill./Palatine) adding another run to their lead.
In response, the Seahawks got a runner on first, but the Warhawk defense kept them off the board. The Warhawks tallied on an insurance run in the Top of the 9th. After video review, Eli Frank (Bayport, Wis./Bay Port) was called safe on a single that scored Frazer, giving UWW a 5-2 lead.
With another 3-run cushion, Salve Regina had three outs left to make up the runs. Logan Eisenbarth (Barrington, Ill./Barrington) came in as the closer for the bottom of the ninth. Eisenbarth fanned the first two batters, but the next two runners made it on base. With two outs and the tying run on the plate, the Dominik McVay (Mineral Point, Wis./Mineral Point) secured the final out, claiming the victory for the Warhawks.
Huseboe earned the win on the mound and Eisenbarth was awarded the save as the Warhawks advance to the NCAA Championship Series for the first time since 2014.
The Warhawks will take on Misericordia in a best of three-game series. Due to weather, the first game, [which was scheduled to be played on Wednesday,] will be on Tuesday, June 4th at 7 PM EDT/6 PM CDT. The second game will remain on Thursday, June 6th at 11 AM EDT/10 AM CDT with the third game to follow if needed.
Taking those FIRST STEPS towards owning a home can be overwhelming and confusion over where to start can slow the process. First Citizens State Bank will be holding a Homebuyers Workshop where experienced lenders will walk through the process of applying and qualifying for a home loan, provide tips on how to prepare, and share information about programs offering down payment assistance. Guest speaker, Jon Marshall from Tincher Realty, will discuss current market trends and there will be time to answer questions.
The Homebuyers Workshop will be held at First Citizens State Bank at 207 W Main Street in Whitewater on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 from 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Light snacks will also be provided.
Please send questions ahead of time and RSVP (appreciated, but not required) to Kimberly Myszkewicz at (262)473-1402 or kmyszkewicz@firstcitizensww.com.
Find more information at www.firstcitizensww.com/News-and-Events.aspx
Member FDIC
Equal Housing Lender
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and Special Olympics Wisconsin continue preparations for the 2024 State Summer Games on June 6-8 in Whitewater.
More than 1,400 athletes are set to compete in athletics (track and field), cornhole, powerlifting, soccer, and tennis. Events will be held at UW-Whitewater’s athletic facilities – Perkins Stadium, Rex Foster Track, the Warhawk Outdoor Tennis Complex, the Williams Center, and the campus intramural fields.
With more than a dozen events and competitions scheduled over the course of the three days, more than 100 volunteer shift opportunities are available. All volunteers will receive a free t-shirt and the opportunity to engage with participants, fans, and event staff.
“UW-Whitewater prides itself on being an inclusive, welcoming place, especially for the thousands of visitors we welcome to campus each summer,” said Morgan Anderson, Director of Camps and Conferences at UW-Whitewater. “Volunteering for the Special Olympics State Summer Games is a great way to make these talented athletes and passionate fans feel like they’re home. We invite residents from Whitewater and in the surrounding communities to get involved in this great event.”
No prior experience is required to volunteer (unless otherwise designated). Volunteers aged 12 and under must be accompanied by a chaperone. Special Olympics Wisconsin will provide training before your shift start time.
“We welcome Whitewater community members and people from surrounding communities to come to our games and witness amazing sportsmanship and wonderful athletic experiences,” said Danny Kuklinski, senior director of sports for Special Olympics Wisconsin. “You will be forever changed through a volunteer experience, but we also would love as many fans in the stands as possible!”
The Parade of Athletes and Opening Ceremony kicks the event off on June 6 from 6-8 p.m. at Perkins Stadium. Check out the full schedule of events here.
For more information or group volunteer reservations, Kuklinski at dkuklunski@specialolympics.org.
By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
As was previously announced on the Banner, the Common Council on May 1 appointed John William Nelson to serve as Municipal Judge on an interim basis as a result of the resignation of Judge Patrick Taylor effective June 1. At that meeting the two other candidates, Art Coleman and Jonathan McDonell, expressed possible interest in filing for the special election to be held on November 5 to fill on a “permanent” basis the unexpired term that will expire in May, 2027. However, with the filing deadline of June 3 having passed, City Clerk Heather Boehm told the Banner that only Nelson submitted nomination papers to appear on the ballot. Consequently only a write-in candidate would have the opportunity to compete with Nelson for the position.
Warhawks Force Second Game against Salve Regina with 7-4 win
The two will battle it out for the last spot in the NCAA DIII World Series
By Broderick P. Frye
Asst. Sports Information Director
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater forces a second game against Salve Regina after defeating the Seahawks 7-4 on Monday afternoon.
The Warhawks got two base runners in the first inning, but Salve Regina closed out the inning without allowing a Warhawk run. One of the baserunners was Matt Scolan (Downers Grove, Ill./South), who recorded his 86th hit, setting a new Warhawk single season hit record.
The Seahawks ended up being the ones to break open the scoreboard, a RBI double in the top of the third.
Sam Paden (Libertyville, Ill./Libertyville) tied it up with a sacrifice fly in the fourth, scoring the first run for the Warhawks against Salve Regina. The Seahawks regained their lead after a runner scored from third as the Warhawks turned a double play.
Down 2-1, it didn’t take long for UWW to regain the lead. With bases loaded, Adam Cootway (DePere, Wis./Fox Valley Lutheran) hitting a standing triple down the right field line to put the Warhawks up 4-2. One of the runners that scored was Scolan, who set yet another record with his 78th run, a single season high for the Warhawks.
An inning later, Eli Frank (Bayport, Wis./Bay Port) singled up the middle to drive in another run. The three-run cushion didn’t last too long, as Salve Regina’s D’Amato hit a two-run to close the Warhawk lead to just one.
After a scoreless inning from both teams in the 7th, Cootway stepped up again with an RBI single. Paden followed him with his own RBI single, regaining the three-run cushion.
Ethan Wickman (Spring Green, Wis./River Valley) and Logan Eisenbarth (Barrington, Ill./Barrington) closed out the game for the Warhawks on the mound. Eisenbarth picked up the save, with the Seahawks going down in order in the bottom of the ninth.
Wickman picked up the win, pitching the 7th and 8th innings without allowing a hit.
The Warhawks return to the field tonight (estimated start time 8:45 PM EDT – 7:45 PM CDT) against Salve Regina. The two will battle it out for the last spot in the NCAA DIII World Series Finals, [which will be held on Wednesday and Thursday.]
By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
In the Pool B Championship game on Monday afternoon, UW-Whitewater (#3) beat Salve Regina (#2) (SR) 7-4. Salve Regina had beaten the Warhawks earlier in the series, 2-0. With this victory, Whitewater stays alive once again and will face SR a third time on Monday evening in a game that will decide which team goes on to the championship on Wednesday and Thursday. The game is scheduled to begin on Monday at 7:00 CDT, but it appears that it could start somewhat later.
Editor’s note: We will hopefully be able to publish a UW-W provided recap of the above game before the start of tonight’s game.
Updated 6/3/24 @ 2:30 p.m. to address whether they will be offering food. Response from Albert’s: “We will occasionally have some small amounts of dog food, but our goal is to bridge the gap that our local food pantry can not provide. From time to time, the food pantry will get some things donated they can dispense, but for all intents and purposes, our local food pantry can only give pet food. We feel that things like new collars, shampoos, blankets, leashes, etc. are also equally important in a pet’s quality of life and the ability for families to help keep their pets in their homes when they are struggling financially. That will be our primary focus.”
Hope that helps! And thank you so much for sharing our story. We look forward to being able to help many people!
In honor of Clyde, a beloved dog whose journey touched the hearts of many, we are proud to announce the grand opening of Clyde’s Closet, a unique little free pet pantry dedicated to supporting pets and their devoted owners in our community. Clyde’s Closet will officially be available to the public on May 29, 2024, providing a wide range of essential pet supplies to those in need. Clyde’s Closet is located at N7285 Woodfield Lane, Whitewater, Wisconsin at the headquarters of Albert’s Dog Lounge Rescue.
Inspired by Clyde’s story, Clyde’s Closet aims to ensure that no pet or pet owner has to go without the necessary resources they need to thrive, and that no dog be surrendered to a rescue or shelter for lack of resources. Founded out of compassion and a deep understanding of the bond between humans and their animal companions, Clyde’s Closet goes beyond traditional food pantries by offering a variety of items that are often unavailable, but essential for the well-being of pets.
“At Clyde’s Closet, we believe that every pet deserves to be loved and cared for, regardless of their owner’s financial circumstances,” said Mandy Lewis, founder of Clyde’s Closet and Albert’s Dog Lounge Rescue. “Our mission is to provide a helping hand to those facing hardships, ensuring that both pets and their owners have access to the supplies they need to lead happy and healthy lives together.”
Clyde’s Closet will offer an array of items including diapers, shampoos, leashes, collars, dishes, dog waste bags, grooming supplies, and more. These items, generously donated by members of the community will be available free of charge to anyone in need.
The opening of Clyde’s Closet represents a beacon of hope and compassion in our community, reflecting the spirit of generosity and unity that defines us.
For more information about Clyde’s Closet, follow Clyde’s Closet on Facebook.
About Clyde’s Closet:
Clyde’s Closet is a little free pet pantry founded in honor of Clyde, a beloved dog whose journey inspired the creation of this initiative. Dedicated to supporting pets and their devoted owners in times of need, Clyde’s Closet offers a variety of essential pet supplies free of charge, ensuring that no pet or pet owner goes without the resources they need to thrive.
Editor’s note: The above press release was received from Albert’s Dog Lounge Rescue.
Obituaries
In Loving Memory of Kandi Lynn Kincaid (Cardinal)Beloved Daughter, Sister, Mother, Grandmother, and Friend It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kandi Lynn Kincaid, daughter of Eunice and Richard Kincaid, on December 28th at 7 PM. Kandi passed away peacefully in bed, enjoying one of her favorite pastimes—watching crime shows. Kandi was a woman of many passions. She was a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears, found joy in listening to 2Pac, and had an unwavering love for animals, always standing against cruelty of any kind. Her smile could light up a room, and her warmth … Read more
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Dr. George Harold Seeburger, 89, of Lake Mills passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025 at Lilac Springs Assisted Living in Lake Mills. George was born on July 20, 1935 in Phillips, Wisconsin to George and Nellie (Knight) Seeburger. He graduated from Phillips High School and received an undergraduate degree from UW Stevens Point and went on to earn his PhD from the University of Georgia Athens. He was a biology professor at UW Whitewater up until his retirement. George married Nancy Carole Skalitzky on November 6, 1959 in Waukegan, Illinois. Nancy passed on November 13, 2021. They enjoyed traveling … Read more
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William J. “Bill” West, 75, of Whitewater passed away on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at Fort Memorial Hospital in Fort Atkinson. Bill was born on September 8, 1949 to John and Bessie (Sutherland) West in Fort Atkinson. He worked at the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater for twelve years. Bill enjoyed watching the Packers and NASCAR. He is survived by his girlfriend, Sandy Hahn; and many friends and family. A memorial visitation will take place on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 11 AM until 1 PM at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI 53190. Inurnment will take … Read more
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David Harold Baker Jr., beloved husband, father, stepfather, son, and brother, passed away on December 16, 2024, in Portland, Oregon, at the age of 61. Born on August 10, 1963, in Beaufort, South Carolina, David was the firstborn child of David Baker Sr. and the late Betty Jean Baker (née Wickham) while his father served in the United States Marine Corps. David spent his early years in Wyoming, where the family lived until his parents divorced. In 1976, David moved to Oregon with his father, and he graduated from high school in 1982. Shortly after, he moved to Wisconsin to … Read more
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Allen C. Hicks, 85 of Whitewater passed away on Saturday, January 4th, 2025 at Huntington Memory Care in Janesville. Al, the oldest of seven boys, was born on July 5th, 1939, in Belvidere, Illinois to Walt and Laura (Keller) Hicks. A few years later, the family bought a dairy farm in Whitewater and became very active in the Whitewater community. There was always work to be done or something to be repaired on the farm which led to Al’s lifelong love of tinkering. He was very active in high school sports which continued on into his adult years playing in … Read more
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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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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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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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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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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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