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Today is Wednesday, May 13, 2026
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UW-Whitewater student-athletes selected to WIAC Scholastic Honor Roll
More than 400 student-athletes at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater earned a spot on the 2024-25 Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference [WIAC] Scholastic Honor Roll.
The following Warhawk student-athletes from the Whitewater area were recognized:
Wyatt Jensen of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater baseball team(s) whose major is General Business.
Brady Malkow of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater baseball team(s) whose major is Management.
Carter Capstran of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater men’s basketball team(s) whose major is Finance – BBA.
Gunner Schlender of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater men’s cross country/track and field team(s) whose major is Physical Education – BSE.
Lee Barnes of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater football team(s) whose major is Marketing.
Brock Grosinske of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater football team(s) whose major is Finance.
Blake Haggerty of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater football team(s) whose major is Finance.
Peyton Nichols of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater men’s soccer team(s) whose major is Finance – BBA.
Justin Krause of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater men’s track and field team(s) whose major is Business Administration – MBA.
Kacie Carollo of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater women’s basketball team(s) whose major is Integrated Science – Business – BS.
Renee Rittmeyer of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater women’s basketball team(s) whose major is Human Resource Management.
Olivia Zuege of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater women’s basketball team(s) whose major is Human Performance – BS.
Kelly Whipple of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater women’s bowling team(s) whose major is General Business – BBA.
Marlee Nichols of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater women’s cross country/track and field team(s) whose major is Human Performance.
Morgan Hoffman of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater women’s soccer team(s) whose major is Human Performance.
Taylor Koehler of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater softball team(s) whose major is Criminology.
Brianna Zimdars of Whitewater, WI (53190), a member of the UW-Whitewater women’s swimming and diving team(s) whose major is Business Admininistration.
The WIAC Scholastic Honor Roll represents students that achieved a 3.00 grade point average or better (on a 4.00 scale).
A total of 231 men and 197 women from UW-Whitewater were selected to the Scholastic Honor Roll.
UW-Whitewater joined the seven other WIAC schools in earning the All-Academic Award. In order to be eligible for the award, institutions must have a grade point average for its student-athletes that is equal to, or greater than, the grade point average of the overall student body.
At UW-Whitewater, all 22 varsity sports achieved a GPA above 3.00 for the first time in recorded history.
During the 2024-25 season, Warhawk Student-Athletes collected nine Academic All-American honors, two NCAA Elite 90 recognitions, and 6 WIAC Scholar Athlete of the Year awards.
Editor’s note: It is likely that some of the above students didn’t reside in the Whitewater area prior to enrollment in UW-W. The university includes in this list any students who have registered Whitewater as their home address.
The third Concert in the Park of the season, Tuesday, August 5, at 6 p.m. features Ladies Must Swing. The event is free and open to all. We are super excited to be back on Tuesday nights for the Concerts in the Park Series. Our partnership with the City Market is truly unique and we are looking forward to Summer 2025!!
FREE Concerts will start at 6 pm! City Market 4-7 pm. ALL at Cravath Lakefront Park.
There is a limited amount of seating on benches next to the parking lot. Bring a chair or blanket, and, if you wish, bring supper or pick it up from the City Market vendors.
Ladies Must Swing
A Big Band In Tune
Our story is about inspiration and encouragement given by lovers of good music and finding out what entertains and makes them happy. Over 27 years ago, LMS became Ladies Must Swing which came from Linda Marty Schmitz, President of the Madison Jazz Society, which also gave us our very first performance opportunity!
The presence of women playing jazz has gotten a lot of attention over the last decade and we are grateful for that. We intend to keep the musical momentum going and invite you to come see us, hear us, dance to us, celebrate with us, and re-live history!
Summit for Peace & Collective Well-being to Be Held August 7 in Whitewater, WI
A Community Gathering to Inspire Healing, Unity, and Collective Action
The Wellness Collective is proud to host the Summit for Peace & Collective
Well-being on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Cravath Lakefront Park in downtown
Whitewater, Wisconsin. This one-day gathering invites individuals, leaders, healers, and
changemakers from all walks of life to come together for a transformative experience dedicated
to inner healing and outer peace.
With a mission to foster meaningful dialogue and compassionate action, the Summit offers a
sacred space to explore what it truly means to live in alignment with ourselves, our
communities, and our planet. The event will feature heart-centered workshops, spiritual
practices, and dynamic speakers focused on creating peace within and around us.
Highlights include:
● Interactive sessions and healing workshops
● Opportunities for discussion, connection, and collaboration
● Local wellness vendors and food trucks
● Meditation and movement experiences
“We believe peace starts from within and radiates outward. The Summit is a call to action for
anyone ready to be a part of the shift toward a more compassionate and unified world,” says
event organizer and life coach, Denise Maple.
The event is open to the public, and registration is now live. In addition to attending,
community members are invited to get involved as:
● Food Truck Partners
● Wellness Business Vendors
● Sponsors committed to community well-being
● Volunteers
Registration is encouraged. The first 50 registrants will receive a goody bag! Please consider a donation to help us cover the costs of the event and to offer future peace and well-being events. Suggested donation: $10
To register, volunteer, become a vendor and/or donate, visit:
� https://livelifespiritual.com/events/summit-for-peace-collective-well-being
Let’s come together for a day of inspiration, healing, and unity — and co-create the peace we
wish to see in the world.
About The Wellness Collective
The Wellness Collective is a group of wellness practitioners and guides from Whitewater and
surrounding areas committed to strengthening our world through compassion, grace, and
conscientiousness. They believe there are a multitude of ways to shift energy in the world, and
one way is through getting into a deeper, more honest relationship with oneself, first, and then
with those within the community. Their mission is to foster meaningful dialogue and
compassionate action.
Social Media Link
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CmzUgsk7F/
Registration will be open until August 8th, and any additional information/steps for registering can be found on our website: Whitewater United FC – Whitewater United FC Youth Soccer (whitewaterunitedfc.com).
City of Whitewater Alcohol Licensing Committee Meeting – Tuesday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda: Discussion and Possible Action regarding the denial of a Tobacco, Cigarette, and Electronic Vaping Application for Hemp 1848, Inc.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
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:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84824083114?pwd=8VCQqBB12h5aBtQa2S3AzVxfQTw14N.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 848 2408 3114
Passcode: 685680
City of Whitewater Common Council – Tuesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Resolution Authorizing The Issuance And Sale Of Up To $1,506,107 Taxable General Obligation Promissory Notes, Series 2025, And Providing For Other Details And Covenants With Respect Thereto, And Approval Of Related $2,545,121 Financial Assistance Agreement; Discussion and Possible Action regarding the denial of a Tobacco, Cigarette, and
Electronic Vaping Application for Hemp 1848, Inc
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
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: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89679338612?pwd=tIesa0sExbBDv1KodjlxyKfIWjeFNP.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 896 7933 8612
Passcode: 027592
City of Whitewater Landmarks Commission – Wednesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible recommendation to Common Council the recommendations related to Starin Park Water Tower.
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 join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/249142285
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 249-142-285
United States: +1 (872) 240-3212
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install
City of Whitewater Public Arts Commission = Thursday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda
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 join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/249072189
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 249-072-189
United States: +1 (872) 240-3212
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install
Whitewater High School Class of 1965 – Class Reunion, July 12, 2025 – Photo by Tom Ganser
2nd Row L – R: John Sobolewski, Jeff Winn, John Grosskreutz, Bob Boynton, Jim Hall, John Milner, Chris Thompson Pitterle, Mike Krebs, Judy Zabel Rausch, Charlotte Pellmann Kutz, Carol Hitchcock Geske, Carole Hepfinger Lewis, Barb Harris Kohlmetz, Carol Wojdula Cantando, Betty Patterman Strese; Hester Roe Mullenix
3rd Row L – R: Marty Peyer, Bryan Bishop, Dale Brown, Linds Kollwelter Schubert, Alan Berg, Maury Deaver, Klaus “Bill” Schlichtholz, Jim Holden, Ron Petak
[Above] Enlargement of the first photo for better view of the faces
Steve Watson writes “Mother duck and her brood feeding on the spillway. Their webbed feet propel them through the water and allows them to stand steady in the fast-moving spillway water.”
Our thanks to Steve Watson for sharing yet another interesting wildlife photo.
— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share. Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!
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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