Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006

Today is Wednesday, May 13, 2026

News & Events

WHITEWATER WEATHER

To add an event, click here to go to the Community Calendar.  Then, click on Submit Event.

Helpful Links

Search our Archives

To search our archives, enter a search term in the search box, then press enter to search.

This Week’s Garage Sale

September 3, 2025


Large multifamily garage sale Friday 9/5 through Sunday 9/7 from 9 am to 4 pm.  Teacher moving so many children’s items available.  Books, Games, Clothing etc…  Kitchen items, printer, jewelry, and something for everyone! 1241 W. Satinwood Lane, Whitewater

Whippet Soccer Tops Brown Deer 3-1

September 3, 2025

The Whippet Soccer Team downed Brown Deer 3-1 on Tuesday, September 2.

Whippet Goals were scored by Kevin Gonzalez (21’), Kevin Gonzalez with an assist from Haniel Vilchez (30’), and Langdon Coburn (44’). The Brown Deer goal was scored by Chutiphon Ninlkang (9’).

Casey Schlicher made 5 saves in goal for the Whippets, and Robert Skebba had 7 saves for Brown Deer.

Information and Photo Submitted by Sam Burns
Whitewater High School Head Boys’ Soccer Coach
dburns@wwusd.org

Families, Business Owners & Community Members: Take the Child Care Survey – Chance to win $50 gift card [Updated]

September 3, 2025

Updated 9/3/25 @ 3:50 p.m. to add links for surveys.


We will appreciate you taking approximately ten minutes to complete this survey about child care needs in the region. As an incentive, respondents to the household survey may choose to be entered into a random draw to win one of five $50 cash vouchers. Partners in this project include the City of Whitewater, the Whitewater Unified School District, the Whitewater Community Foundation and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, including its Children’s Center.

Survey for families: Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management

Survey for businesses: Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management


For more information visit www.whitewaterecec.com

Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the photo on the homepage by tolmacho from Pixabay.

Familias, dueños de negocios y miembros de la comunidad: respondan la encuesta de cuidado infantil: ¡oportunidad de ganar una tarjeta de regalo de $50! [Actualizado]

September 3, 2025

Actualizado con enlaces a la encuesta


Agradeceremos que dedique aproximadamente diez minutos a completar esta encuesta sobre las necesidades de cuidado infantil en la región. Como incentivo, quienes respondan a la encuesta de hogares podrán participar en un sorteo para ganar uno de cinco cupones de $50. Entre los colaboradores de este proyecto se encuentran la Ciudad de Whitewater, el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Whitewater, la Fundación Comunitaria de Whitewater y la Universidad de Wisconsin-Whitewater, incluyendo su Centro Infantil.

Enlace para la encuesta familiar: Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management

Enlace para encuesta empresarial: Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management

Para más información, visitas www.whitewaterecec.com

Nota del editor: The Banner agradece el permiso para usar la foto de tolmacho de Pixabay en su página principal.

Come Join the Band! UW-W University-Community Band Starts Next Week

September 3, 2025

The parking fee is waived for this event on Monday evenings.

Editor’s note: The image on the homepage: The University Community Band rehearses on September 25, 2017, conducted by Professor Glenn Hayes. (UW-Whitewater photo/Craig Schreiner)

Welcome to the New School Year from Whitewater Music Boosters

September 2, 2025

Did you know that Whitewater Music Boosters gives thousands of dollars to support music at all WUSD schools? That money dries up, and the decisions don’t happen, without the help of family and community members like you!

If you haven’t been to a Whitewater Music Boosters meeting – or if it’s been a while – the first meeting of the year is arguably the most important one, and your opportunity to see what this year will hold is right around the corner. We are holding our first meeting on Monday, September 8th from 5:30-6:30 PM. Join us at WHS – Room 403 (come in through the auditorium/music doors) or via Google Meet at the following link: https://meet.google.com/fko-afzc-hxa.

The agenda will be finalized this week. It will be available with previous agendas, past minutes, and other important organizational documents here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TuBl93A6i-eHoumy9RN1HDvYWYLHdbeN?usp=sharing Did you get this message from a music teacher? Join our email list: https://forms.gle/NYGKUrk3TgbSwLmF9

Our constitution went through some updates over the last year-and-a-half. You can find it here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/176FiAPf8aBMIY6qAUMseCVGTBSoBRencaSgcpmIwuek/edit?usp=sharing

Meetings are casual, and kids are welcome. Come see what we’re about and how we support your students’ music!

If you can’t attend this meeting, there are many ways to get involved: 

Way #1: Run for a seat on the Board! The positions of Treasurer and Sponsorships/Fundraising Chair are currently vacant. Position descriptions are in the Constitution.

Way #2:
Volunteer! 

Whitewater music events frequently need your assistance. Look for other opportunities from Whitewater Music Boosters and from teachers. Volunteering is a great way to support students in their music experience.

Way #3:

Donate/Fundraise! In addition to supporting student activities through volunteering, Music Boosters supports the growth of students through sponsoring music related activities and providing monetary support for instruments, uniforms, and other needed items that aren’t budgeted for. Donors are recognized on social media and through the programs at district music events but can also donate anonymously if it’s preferred.

Donate/Share Form here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qkxHs1iNBujuaWKY7SqiDjH4QjZQ5dg2/view?usp=drive_link

Fall Book Club Announcement: League of Women Voters Whitewater Area

September 1, 2025


Fall Book Club Announcement

League of Women Voters Whitewater Area

The League of Women Voters of Whitewater Area is pleased to announce the continuation of our book discussions that explore issues regarding the League’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy. 

The book for this fall is entitled American Madness: Fighting for Patients in a Broken Mental Health System by Alice Feller, M.D., which explores the complex realities of mental health care in the United States. Core themes of the book include: the current state of mental health care in America and its devastating impact on patients and families, the obstacles patients face in accessing appropriate care, the shortage of hospital beds, personal stories and advocacy for systemic change and improved treatment options, and patient vignettes that bring the realities of a broken system to life, encouraging empathy and understanding among readers.

Please join us as we discuss the book and mental health issues in our local community in three separate sessions, all of which will be held at The Book Teller, 171 W Main Street, in Whitewater, 6:30PM – 8:00PM, on the following dates:

Thursday, September 18, 2025 – Introduction through Chapter 4

Thursday, October 9, 2025 – Chapters 5 – 9

Thursday, November 13, 2025 – Chapters 10 – Epilogue

ACQUIRE THE BOOK TODAY! A limited supply of books is available at The Book Teller (call 262-269-9109 to hold a copy to purchase) and local libraries.  You can also order the book from Amazon.

You do not need to be a League member to attend and refreshments will be served. For questions or further information please contact Dwight C. Watson, dwight.watsondcw@gmail.com, or Deb Gamble, shebagam@gmail.com

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Visit our website at https://my.lwv.org/wisconsin/whitewater-area and like us on Facebook!

City Trash Pickup is on Friday This Week / La recogida de basura de la ciudad es el viernes de esta semana

September 1, 2025

John’s Disposal will be closed on Monday, September 1, 2025, in observance of Labor Day.

Please note the following route change:
 Thursday’s route is delayed to Friday

Residents may contact John’s Disposal directly by calling (262) 473-4700 or by emailing office@johnsdisposal.com. You may also view their website at https://www.johnsdisposal.com.

______________________________________________________

AVISO: John’s Disposal estará cerrado el lunes 1 de septiembre de 2025, en conmemoración del Día del Trabajo. Tenga en cuenta el siguiente cambio de ruta:
 La ruta del jueves se retrasa hasta el Viernes

Obituaries

Obituary: Lawrence “Larry” C. Hartung, 76, of Fort Atkinson

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

Obituary: Leo E. Wurzer, 65, of Eagle

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

Obituary: Lois Cummings, 99, of Fond du Lac

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

Celebration of Life: William Kincaid

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!

Obituary: Gladys Jean (Riley) Hildebrandt, 89, of Milwaukee

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

Obituary: Nancy “Nan” Rowley, 90

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

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

Obituary: Ruth I. (Phelps) Justis, 88, of MO

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

Obituary: Dorothy C. Kau, 101, of Eagle

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

Obituary: Dorothy E. [nee Meyer] Wafle McCracken, 95, of Florida

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