Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Friday, October 9, 2026
News & Events
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.
“The Lost Bus”
Tuesday, November 11, 1 pm
(Drama/History/Thriller)
Rated R (language); 2 hours, 9 minutes (2025).
A wayward school bus driver (Matthew McConaughey) and a dedicated schoolteacher (America Ferrera) battle to save 22 children from a terrifying inferno, the 2018 Camp Fire, in Paradise, CA, that state’s deadliest wildfire in history. A true story.
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/
Updated 11/7/25 @ 8:55 p.m. to add to the editor’s note that the Trump administration has appealed to the Supreme Court the order to release SNAP funds, even though Wisconsin’s members have already received their funds if they were due.
FoodShare: News for Members
November FoodShare benefits update: Full benefits are now available
Full November FoodShare benefits are now available on all QUEST cards. FoodShare members can check their FoodShare balance by calling QUEST Card Services at 877-415-5164.
FoodShare members will get full benefits instead of partial benefits because of lawsuits brought against the federal government by Wisconsin and other states, municipalities, and nonprofits.
Updates about other state programs
- WIC benefits will be available throughout the month of November. You can continue to use your WIC benefits, attend WIC appointments, and do not need to take any action. Contact your local WIC agency with any questions.
- Other state programs like BadgerCare Plus, Medicaid, and SeniorCare are not impacted by the shutdown. Members still have coverage to get the care and services they need. For updates, visit the Medicaid News page.
Changes to FoodShare work requirement start to take effect in Wisconsin
When the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act’ was signed into law in July, it included an expansion of the federal work requirement for some FoodShare members.
- It expanded the age range of members affected from 18-54, to 18-64.
- It added parents whose only children at home are 14 and older.
Your local agency will check if you need to meet the work requirement at your next interview. If you need to meet the work requirement, you will get a letter in the mail after your interview from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS).
Learn more about meeting the work requirement for FoodShare.
Editor’s note: This announcement is from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website. FoodShare is the name for Wisconsin’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program [SNAP]. Per the PBS Newshour on Friday evening, some states have still not released full SNAP funding to their recipients. According to this news release, Gov. Evers made an executive decision to release the funds on Thursday night. As of Friday evening, the Trump administration has appealed to the Supreme Court the lower court order requiring the release of SNAP funding. The president has indicated that states that issue SNAP funding “prematurely” will not be reimbursed by the federal government. Hopefully individual members could not be subject to having these funds recouped.
The boys’ and girls’ cross country teams wrapped up their season Wednesday evening with a celebration recognizing the athletes, their accomplishments, and the memories shared throughout the year. Team parent Sara Brautigam beautifully decorated the event, helping highlight just how special the sport of cross country truly is.
Major awards were presented to the following athletes:
- Most Valuable Runner: Virginia Nelson, Tyler Carollo
- Most Improved: Melody Smith, Ian Agen
- Heart and Soul: Delaney Hammack, Quinton O’Toole
- Jack Daniels Award: Quinton O’Toole
- Phyllis Sievert Award: Delaney Hammack
Congratulations to all Whippet runners on a great season!
Article and Photos Submitted by Chad Carstens
Whitewater High School Head Cross Country Coach
ccarstens@wwusd.org
| Gov. Evers Appoints Samuel Berg to the Walworth County Circuit Court |
| Gov. Tony Evers announced today his appointment of Samuel Berg to the Walworth County Circuit Court – Branch 4. The appointment will fill the vacancy being created by Judge David M. Reddy’s retirement. Berg will complete a term ending July 31, 2027. “Samuel Berg’s breadth of experience and commitment to the local community are important qualities for any judge, and I look forward to him continuing to serve Walworth County,” said Gov. Evers. Since October 2024, Berg has been a senior associate at Gardiner Koch Weisberg & Wrona in Lake Geneva. He handles a general practice, including civil litigation, criminal defense, probate and guardianship, personal injury, estate planning, real estate, contract review, and employment law. Previously, he spent four years as an assistant district attorney in the Walworth County District Attorney’s Office. Earlier in his career, he served as an assistant attorney general in the civil litigation unit of the Wisconsin Department of Justice and as a law clerk for Judge William C. Griesbach of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin in Green Bay. “Samuel Berg brings to the bench qualities every community hopes for in its judiciary—intelligence, patience, fairness, and an even temperament,” said Walworth County Circuit Court Judge David Reddy. “I am confident he will show respect for everyone who appears before him, and Walworth County will be well served by his leadership.” “Attorney Samuel Berg will serve Walworth County well as judge,” said Walworth County District Attorney Zeke Wiedenfeld. “He is smart and has a tremendous work ethic. During his four years of service as an assistant district attorney, he handled a high-volume caseload and helped crime victims navigate the court system.” Berg grew up in Walworth County and lives in Williams Bay with his family. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Marquette University Law School. “I am very grateful to be able to serve as a judge in Walworth County,” said Berg. “As a judge, I will use my experience in federal, state, and local public service, and in private practice, to promote the common good, and I will be committed to justice, impartiality, and the protection of the rights of individuals and of our communities.” |
Editor’s note: This press release was received from the governor’s office.
Steve Watson writes, “Morning sunshine, full moon over Whitewater. The following info is copied from Google. ‘The November 2025 full moon, known as the Beaver Moon, is a supermoon occurring on November 5, 2025, reaching peak illumination at 8:19 EST and appearing larger and brighter than usual. This is the closest supermoon of 2025 and is visible the night of the 5th as it rises, looking larger near the horizon due to the moon illusion.'”
Our thanks to Steve Watson for yet another beautiful 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!
Whitewater Arts Alliance Annual Members’ Show—2025
Celebrate Community Creativity at the Whitewater Arts Alliance Members’ Show
| Exhibition Dates: November 6–December 20 Reception: Saturday, November 15, 1:00–4:00 p.m. Location: Cultural Arts Center, 402 W. Main Street, Whitewater, WI The Whitewater Arts Alliance (WAA) invites everyone to its Annual Members’ Show, a celebration of local creativity and community connection. The exhibition runs from November 6 through December 20 at the Cultural Arts Center in Whitewater and features original artwork by WAA member artists. This annual tradition showcases the diverse talents of artists who support and shape the Alliance’s mission to promote the visual arts in Whitewater and beyond. Visitors will find a wide range of mediums—from painting and photography to fiber and mixed media—reflecting the unique perspectives and styles of each artist. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, November 15, from 1pm-4pm. All are welcome to attend. Guests can enjoy refreshments, meet the artists, and learn more about the stories behind the work. The reception offers a relaxed and welcoming time to connect with the creative community and explore the role of the arts in local life. The Members’ Show is one of the Alliance’s cornerstone events, highlighting the value of artistic collaboration and the importance of sustaining a vibrant arts culture in Whitewater |
| For more information, contact: Kim Adams, Gallery Director, Whitewater Arts Alliance Phone: 608-201-2151Email: wwartsalliance@gmail.comWebsite: whitewaterarts.org Facebook: facebook.com/wwartsalliance Gallery Hours: Thursdays-Sundays, 12pm-4pm 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!” |
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. This week our post honors Veterans Day on Tuesday, November 11. While Memorial Day honors all those who died in service, Veterans Day honors all those who served. Here is a photo of Whitewater’s National Guard unit on the march in the summer of 1951 at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. This was at the height of the Korean War so National Guard readiness was important. To all veterans, have a Happy Veterans Day.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(1827P, Whitewater Historical Society)
The 15th Annual Run for Trey took place on October 5, 2025. Treyton Kilar’s life was tragically cut short on September 2, 2010. His legacy and love for baseball lives on through Treyton’s Field of Dreams, the scholarships given in his name, and the community that gathers year after year to honor him.
Photos are courtesy of Tom Ganser.
Obituaries
Sally A. Schutte, age 73, of Whitewater, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 21, 2026, while at Hearthstone Memory Care in Whitewater. Sally was born on November 6, 1952, to Roy and Elsie (Rohloff) Haas. Sally married William Schutte in the spring of 2003. Sally grew up on the family farm in the Town of Hebron and graduated from Jefferson High School. She dedicated nearly her entire career to Fort HealthCare, where her hard work and versatility shone through various roles. Over the years, she served in housekeeping and medical records, Center for Dermatology. Sally … Read more
Zachariah “Zach” Schoenke, 41, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. He was born April 4, 1985, to Keith W. Schoenke and Kathleen Schoenke in Fort Atkinson, WI. He grew up and graduated from Whitewater High School in 2003. Zach worked various jobs over the years but was currently working at Cracker Barrel in Janesville. He was a big Packers Fan and liked to play fantasy football. He enjoyed reading, cooking, and watching horror shows. Zach fiercely loved his son, Lincoln, his sisters, Cami and Cary, his mom and stepdad, and his aunt Robin. He will be dearly … Read more
Carla Winn, 82, died September 5, 2026. Funeral Service will be at 12:00 PM, Saturday, September 12, 2026, at East Heights United Methodist Church, 4407 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67218, followed by a burial at 2:00 PM at White Chapel Memorial Garden 1806 N Oliver Ave. Carla is preceded in death by her parents, Vivian Dwight and Wilma Lois Krehbiel; and sister, Jennifer Krehbiel. She is survived by husband, Stephen; daughter, Ashley (Clint) Gagel, of Overland Park; siblings, Paul (Kay) Krehbiel, of Socorro, NM, Lynn (Bill) Oetting, of Wichita, Ellen (John) Querner, of Wichita, Teresa Woodson, of Lawrence, KS, … Read more
Susan Miller Celebration of Life There will be a gathering of friends and acquaintances at Susan’s Farm Store to celebrate Susan’s life on Saturday, September 19th from 2-5 p.m. at N6623 Lake Lorraine Rd., Delavan, Wisconsin
Our loving mother, JoAnn E Harrop, age 95, passed away on September 11, 2026. Our sorrow is deep, but we are filled with gratitude for the many years we had with her. Even as her mind was failing, she remained strong and appreciative of all who cared for her. JoAnn was born on January 13, 1931, daughter to Fred Braun and Evelyn Braun {Storck). She was raised in Whitewater, Wisconsin by her grandparents, Otto and Edith Storck. She attended Whitewater High School and helped at the Storck tavern where she met her husband Earl C. Harrop. They married on November … Read more
Russell O. Johnson “Russ,” 88, passed away on September 4, 2026 in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Russell was born on July 12, 1938, in Janesville, Wisconsin. Russ grew up in Janesville, and after high school he joined the Air Force on May 1, 1958, serving as an aircraft mechanic until June 12, 1962. He then worked at Parker Pen in Janesville for a time, where he met his future wife, Avis. After marrying Avis Mason in April 1964, Russ worked for Gillman Manufacturing for a time, then began a career at Dana until its closing in 1980. In 1981, Russ started working … Read more
Marcia Zingg, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, at the age of 75. Marcia will be remembered for her unwavering love, remarkable strength, generous spirit, and lifelong devotion to her family. She shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Jeffrey Zingg, who considered her not only his wife but also his best friend, business partner, and the love of his life. Together, Marcia and Jeffrey built a successful life rooted in perseverance, hard work, laughter, and love. As entrepreneurs in Whitewater, Wisconsin, they owned and managed new car franchises and … Read more
Amanda Jean Hunter was born to Ralph and Malinda (Thomas) Hunter of Whitewater, Wisconsin, on October 6, 1976. She passed away on August 4, in Fort Worth, Texas, where she lived with her family. Amanda passed peacefully in the hospital, surrounded by her loved ones. Amanda was a kind-hearted free spirit with an unmistakable hippie warmth. Generosity, spontaneity, a quick wit, a macabre sense of humor, and an open heart were traits that she embraced. She was a tireless champion of those in need, an innate characteristic that became among the best of her qualities. She proved to be a … Read more
Ellen Eichmiller, 82, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Ellen was born on September 10, 1943, in Monroe, Wisconsin, to Chester “Guy” and Irene (née Holmen) Steig. She married the love of her life, Paul Eichmiller, on December 7, 1963, and together they made their home in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Ellen spent much of her working life as a secretary at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, where she formed many lasting friendships and memories. Ellen cherished her family and friends and treasured the time she spent with those closest to her. She was known for her love of … Read more
Janet Quinn, age 71, of Jefferson passed away on Thursday, August 20th. Janet was born on December 22nd, 1954 in St. Joseph, MI to Robert Mounsey and Edith Christison Mounsey. She was a granddaughter to Herbert Bragg Mounsey, Charlotte Mounsey, and Ester Christison West. She married Michael Durden in 1979 and later married Eury Quinn Jr. (J.R.) in 1988. Janet grew up in Benton Harbor, MI, and subsequently lived in New York and Arkansas before moving to Wisconsin in 2016. She was a dedicated caregiver to her disabled Mother, and worked as a custodian for various employers over the years. … Read more
Other Recent Posts
Click on the title to view the post. To open the post in a new tab, press Ctrl (Cmd on a Mac) while clicking on the title.
