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Paint Wisconsin Awards, Art Auction and 20-Year Gala: Cultural Arts Center, Friday, August 8, 2025, 5-8 p.m.
- 5:00 pm – Gallery viewing, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and piano music by Jim Olm
- 5:45 pm – 20th Anniversary Acknowledgement, Marilyn Fuerstenberg Tribute and Thank You to WHS Class of 1961, Paint Wisconsin Awards
- 6:15 pm – Appeal by WAA Board Member Dwight Watson
- 6:20 pm – Live auction of “Painting with the Whitewater Stars” pieces and WAA artwork
- 7:30 pm – Performance by “Here Comes Treble” Sweet Adeline Quartet
The Painting “Stars” at work on their masterpieces – Courtesy of Tom Ganser
The Marilyn Fuerstenberg Paint Wisconsin Exhibit Reception and Whitewater Arts Alliance 20-Year Anniversary Gala Scheduled for August 8, 2025
The Whitewater Arts Alliance (WAA) is proud to present the 1st Annual Paint Wisconsin Exhibition and to host its 20th Anniversary Gala on Friday, August 8, 2025. The Paint Wisconsin Exhibit will run from Thursday, August 7 – Wednesday, September 10, 2025. Due to the overwhelming response to the call for art and the high-caliber pieces submitted for this juried exhibition, the WAA has partnered with Roberta’s Art Gallery in the James R. Connor University Center, located on the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (UW-W) campus, to display some of the works. A list of the exhibiting artists and biographies of jurors Thomas Jewell, Frank Juarez, and Graeme Reid are available on the WAA website at https://www.whitewaterarts.org/paint-wisconsin-2025. Roberta’s Art Gallery will hold a Paint Wisconsin Overview and Reception on August 8, 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Free parking will be available in UW-W Lot 12. The lot is located behind Andersen Library, near the corner of Prairie and Main Streets.
At 5:00 p.m., the program and celebration will continue in the Cultural Arts Center, home of the Whitewater Arts Alliance, located at 402 W Main Street, Whitewater. The ticket cost is “pay what you will.” The event will open with free heavy hors d’oeuvres, a beer and wine cash bar, and live piano music by Jim Olm. At 5:45 p.m., the WAA will honor former member, self-taught artist, and inspiration for the Paint Wisconsin Exhibit, Marilyn Fuerstenberg. When Marilyn passed away in June 2024, her many friends in the WAA and classmates from the Whitewater High School class of 1961 wanted to establish an event in her honor. Through their generosity and the contributions of local sponsors, the Paint Wisconsin Exhibition became a reality. The Paint Wisconsin Awards will be announced at this time.
Marilyn Fuerstenberg was instrumental in the development and growth of the WAA as she led workshops and brought renowned artists from around the country to Whitewater. Thanks to dedicated members like Marilyn, the WAA is also celebrating its 20-year anniversary on August 8. Established in 2005 by community members and local artists working together to preserve the Prairie Tillers Mural at the corner of Center Street and Whitewater Avenue, the organization strives to expand its mission to “support, promote, and develop the arts as an essential and integral part of our community.” To that end, the evening will include a live auction at 6:20 p.m. as a fundraiser. Auctioneer Jenny Gehl from Bravo Benefit Auctions will auction off the 12 pieces from the “Painting with the Whitewater Stars” event (to include pieces by Chancellor Corey King, City Manager John Weidl, and First Citizens State Bank CEO Jim Caldwell, among others), two paintings by Marilyn Fuerstenberg, two pieces by Albert Benedict, and other works. Directly following the auction, Jenny will guide a live paddle raise; all donors over a certain amount will be entered in a drawing for a gift basket valued at more than $500. The festivities will close with a performance by “Here Comes Treble” Sweet Adeline Quartet featuring Christine Hayes, Valerie Troxel, Lori Heidenreich, and Kim Taylor.
Everyone is welcome to the Cultural Arts Center for an evening of food, drink, art, and music in celebration of Marilyn Fuerstenberg, the Whitewater Arts Alliance, and community. Many thanks to our sponsors for making this event possible: Anonymous sponsors, Edge Broadband, Fort Community Credi
An Old Fashion Ice Cream Social
Music: Hardanger Fiddle. Pump Organ,
and Flute
Children’s Activities
Books, Bakery, and Photography Sale
100% proceeds go to church restoration.
August 17th 2:00 p.m.
Heart Prairie Norwegian
Methodist Episcopal Church
N7372 County Road P, Delavan, WI
Limited Parking ~~~Early Arrival Advised
>>>>>>> Ice Cream Free <<<<<<<
Editor’s note: The following are excerpts from an article dated July 15, 2025 on WRAL.com, the website of a North Carolina television station. A video about the story may be viewed here. Reese Brantmeier is a Whitewater High School alum who recently celebrated the grand opening of the restored tennis courts on the Washington Elementary School property which was made possible by the over $160,000 in donations that she raised.
UNC tennis player is headed to US Open again. Her legal fight to keep prize money just got a boost
A federal judge in North Carolina said Tuesday that she is likely to certify a class in the lawsuit brought by North Carolina women’s tennis star Reese Brantmeier against the NCAA.
A federal lawsuit brought by a North Carolina women’s tennis player against the NCAA over prize money is expected to receive class-action status, meaning it could have wide-ranging implications for college athletics.
Reese Brantmeier first filed a federal lawsuit in North Carolina against the NCAA in March 2024 over the organization’s restrictions on individual athletes keeping prize money won in outside competitions. Brantmeier, the 2025 ACC player of the year, earned about $50,000 from competing in the 2021 U.S. Open as a high school junior, but NCAA rules made her give up most of those winnings. She was allowed to keep $10,000 plus some expenses.
The original suit was filed on behalf of Division I athletes in all sports, but an amended complaint, filed in November, limits the class to just tennis players who compete or competed at the Division I level. Tennis players are allowed to accept up to $10,000 per calendar year in prize money from outside competition before enrolling. After enrollment, they are limited to actual and necessary expenses under current NCAA rules.
The amended complaint also includes former Texas women’s tennis player Maya Joint as a named plaintiff.
The NCAA’s long-held amateurism rules have undergone massive changes in recent years, ushering in an era of professionalization at the college level. Athletes can now directly receive payments from schools with some players earning millions. Most of the money is being directed toward football and men’s basketball players.
Brantmeier’s lawsuit challenging the prize money rules now looks like it’ll be allowed to advance. And the timing is fortuitous: The UNC senior just earned a spot in the U.S. Open tournament next month [August 24 – September 7], competing in the doubles bracket for a shot at hundreds of thousands of dollars in prize money. Under current rules, she wouldn’t be able to collect winnings.
“We have always thought the prize money case was a straightforward violation of antitrust laws,” said Jason Miller, a Raleigh-based lawyer who is representing Brantmeier…….
In June, Brantmeier and teammate Alanis Hamilton earned a spot in next month’s U.S. Open.
Brantmeier earned All-America honors in singles and doubles in 2025. She went 18-2 in singles and earned first-team All-ACC for the third straight year. She went 24-5 in doubles and earned first-team All-ACC honors. Brantmeier led UNC to the ACC title in 2024, earning All-America honors before an injury ended her season. She was key to the Tar Heels’ national title team in 2023.
Brantmeier is 60-9 in singles across three seasons in Chapel Hill. She sat out her first season at UNC in 2022-23 because, according to her lawsuit, the NCAA refused to certify her as an “amateur.” It challenged some of the expenses submitted by Brantmeier during her 2021 U.S. Open participation.
Editor’s note: The following announcement was made on the Sweet Spot Bakehouse Facebook page.
Hey folks, we have some bittersweet news to share—
At the end of August we will be closing the Bakehouse location of the Sweet Spot.
We are so grateful for our time in Whitewater and are so proud of what our team has accomplished over the past 5 years— bringing you freshly baked scratch pastries, morning coffees through our drive through, and working to be better every day.
While the doors at 1185 W Main will be closing, our two other locations— the Cafe in downtown Whitewater and the Langholf in Fort Atkinson— will continue to be open for your daily caffeine needs. We are working on a solution to provide pastries at these locations as well.
Our closing is coming much quicker than anticipated due to factors beyond our control. We know it will sadden many of you, and you may have questions about what comes next. We ask that you please refrain from asking our staff and instead direct them to our email: contact@sweetspotwhitewater.com
We’ll announce our official end date soon, but we will not be taking custom orders past August 24th. We will be open daily from 7am-4pm until then.
Where one door closes, another opens. This decision will allow us to invest more time and energy into our other ventures, and into our personal lives and communities. We hope that down the road, we can reopen our bakery in a new capacity (perhaps with a partner— and if this interests you, we’d love to chat!).
For now, we hope to see you for a cup of coffee at one of our other locations! Running a small business is no easy feat, and it takes a village. Thank you to our staff, customers, and everyone who has supported us for the past 5 years. We hope that you continue to support your local businesses— not just our shops or even the ones in Whitewater, but in every community wherever you go. Supporting small matters in big ways.
Editor’s note: There are many online comments indicating that this property at 1185 W. Main Street will be the site for a Dunkin’. Attempts by The Whitewater Banner to confirm this report with the current owners or with a manager of the Fort Atkinson Dunkin’ have thus far been unsuccessful.
Wisconsin Man Sentenced for Possessing Chemical Weapon Precursors
Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on August 1, 2025, United States District Judge Brett Ludwig sentenced James Morgan (formerly known as Karactus Blome) to 29 months in prison. Morgan had pled guilty to one count of possession of chemical weapon precursors— chemicals that combine to create chlorine and chlorine gas—not intended for peaceful purposes, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 229(a).
According to court documents, on December 21, 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed a search warrant at Morgan’s storage unit and found the precursor chemicals. Morgan had studied chemistry at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater and had described himself as a weapon designer who did not need a conventional weapon. In a video, Morgan displayed the chemicals and said they were for making a lot of chlorine very quickly. In messages in 2022, he said that what he had was “scary,” and that the chemicals react to produce a lot of chlorine gas, which can be “effective if your enemy is not ready for it.” He sent links for purchasing the chemicals and discussed the amounts needed to make a lot of chlorine gas quickly. In messages in 2023, Morgan discussed a plan to defeat the government, if it came for his guns, by producing a large amount of chlorine that he claimed could be used against approximately twenty government agents. The FBI Laboratory determined that the chemicals Morgan possessed could produce a large amount of chlorine that could result in rapid, serious health effects, including death.
In announcing the sentence, Judge Ludwig focused on the incredibly dangerous nature of chlorine gas and the defendant’s possession of the chemicals knowing that he could combine them to harm law enforcement. Judge Ludwig also discussed the need to provide deterrence to others who might try to do the same.
“The defendant’s conduct posed a serious risk to others and the community as a whole,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Frohling. “This individual spent substantial time discussing and constructing weapons and expressing opposition to law enforcement and individuals whose race, ethnic origin, or backgrounds differed from his. I commend the hard work and collaboration of everyone involved in seeking to hold him accountable for his criminal activity.”
“Mr. Morgan obtained commercially available chemicals with an intent to manufacture chemical weapons which could have had a devastating impact to citizens and law enforcement officers in Wisconsin,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle. “Morgan is already serving a two-year sentence for possessing destructive devices. The Milwaukee Field Office of the FBI will continue to work aggressively with our partners to prevent the acquisition and use of weapons of mass destruction.”
The FBI investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney John Scully prosecuted, with assistance from Trial Attorney Justin Sher of the National Security Division, Counterterrorism Section.
Editor’s note: The above press release was received from the U.S. Department of Justice, United States Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Wisconsin.
Updated 8/4/25 @ 2:45 p.m. with identification of the insect.
Tom Ganser writes, “This is the most interesting butterfly, moth, dragon fly, or ??? that I have ever seen. Stayed at its resting location long enough for me to grab my camera.
Anyone know what species it is?”
Our thanks to Tom Ganser for sharing this beautiful photo. Anyone who may be able to identify this creature, please write to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
Crystal Singer writes, “With Picture Insect’s help, I learned that this species is a Widow skimmer. You should check it out!
Our thanks to Crystal Singer for this identification.
You asked for more variety, and Music Boosters listened again: we are selling new Whitewater Music apparel in several WUSD colors! We have T-shirts for $16 and crewneck sweatshirts for $30. All shirts come in various youth and adult sizes and are available in blue, green, or red. Apparel will be available for pickup during or after the October meeting (10/6 at 5:30 p.m.)!
The merchandise may be viewed at this link. Per the website, the order closes on September 15. Whitewater Music Boosters, originally founded as the Whitewater Music Parents Association, supports the WUSD music program by coordinating volunteers and providing funds to the program and to students attending music camps, the website indicates.
Editor’s note: The above announcement was provided by WWUSD Music Boosters.
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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