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The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Wednesday, May 13, 2026
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Irvin L. Young Library Board of Trustees – Monday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and action concerning the library’s social media accounts and continuing to
allow public comments and Discussion and possible action concerning the changing of the library’s name from Irvin L.
Young Memorial Library to Whitewater Public Library.
Cravath Lakefront Conference Room
312 W 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 the webinar:
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82290233984?pwd=vHXnZrDQbMO75Qojl7CnGnLkSsrpkv.1
Meeting ID: 822 9023 3984
Passcode: Uc9nnbQG
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799
City of Whitewater Common Council – Tuesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and Possible Action regarding Extension of Police Department Memorandum
of Understanding with Whitewater Unified School District regarding School Resource
Officer and Discussion and Possible Action regarding Selection of Council Representatives for
Whitewater Unified School District School Resource Officer Meeting(s).
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI 53190
*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/82525777868?pwd=lGYPI52rqZlXmb4wPfHTTViwXhlemE.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 825 2577 7868
Passcode: 247466
City of Whitewater Finance Committee – Wednesday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Presentation of the 2024 Annual Financial Report by Johnson & Block and Discussion and possible action to recommend the Police hiring strategy to Common Council.
City Manager Conference Room, Municipal
Building, 312 W. Whitewater Street
d) 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 the webinar: You are invited to a Zoom webinar!
Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86849515702
Phone one-tap:
+13126266799,,86849515702#
Join via audio:
+1 312 626 6799
Webinar ID: 868 4951 5702
City of Whitewater Community Development Authority Board of Directors – Thursday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible action on Down Payment Assistance Loan request for 406 E
Milwaukee (/TRA 00048) and Discussion and possible action on responses to RFP for Brokerage Services.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room, 312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI 53190
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.
Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89990415700?pwd=wCXuE yQDAGUtnrcbWVZH1zBTI3FMg.Ln4S7t7xWVlLx7oZ Passcode:647974
Phone one-tap: +13092053325,,88970348110#,,,,647974# US
+13126266799,,88970348110#,,,,*647974#
Webinar ID: 889 7034 8110
Passcode: 647974
First Citizens State Bank is celebrating June Dairy Month on Friday, June 20th – and you’re invited!
Since 1939, June has been recognized as National Dairy Month to pay tribute to Dairy Farmers and share the nutritional benefits of dairy. Stop by the East Troy, Palmyra, or Whitewater Main Office on June 20th from 11 am – 2 pm to enjoy free Decatur Dairy Cheese Curds, Culver’s Custard, and of course, MILK! Plus, local 4H and FFA members will be at the Whitewater Main office with some cute cows to pet. Bring the kids and join the fun!
The Whitewater Common Sense Citizens (WCSC) held their third meeting on Thursday, May 29th, at 841 Brewhouse. Members of the community, the WCSC board, and the executive team leaders discussed their next steps regarding the active petitioning against the Tax Incremental Financing incentive proposed by Whitewater City Council.
“We are gratified to have had 108 attendees to our first three meetings,” Whitewater Common Sense Citizens’ president, Andrea Svec, stated. “It is incredible to see our community work together to oppose this issue.”
The Whitewater Common Sense Citizens have officially announced that they are moving forward with a petition to oppose the use of Tax Incremental Finance (TIF) incentives for apartments within Whitewater’s Tax Incremental Districts. This is in response to recent exploration and approval processes from the Whitewater City Council for various developments including several new apartment buildings.
The WCSC encourages the community to sign the petition and participate in future meetings. The petition can be signed online here or in-person at the Whitewater City Market. WCSC is committed to a transparent look into some of the major issues that are affecting the greater Whitewater Community; if you are interested in joining or learning more about the Whitewater Common Sense Citizens, they encourage you to reach out at whitewatercsc@gmail.com.
“Our values lie in the success of our neighbors,” Svec says. “Our group will ban together against policies that do not reflect the betterment of our community.”
Mark your calendar for the next scheduled meeting, which will be held Thursday, September 25, 2025. For more information on the Whitewater Common Sense Citizens, contact the board members at whitewatercsc@gmail.com.
About the WCSC
The Whitewater Common Sense Citizens is a group centered around the greater Whitewater Unified School District area. The goal of the WCSC is to promote thoughtful governance, encouraging civic involvement, and strengthening our community by working together today to ensure a better tomorrow. For more information about the WCSC, visit https://wwcsc.org/
Editor’s note: This press release was submitted by Whitewater Common Sense Citizens.
The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Walworth County joins global communities in recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15.
This international observance is an opportunity to raise awareness about the often-overlooked issue of elder abuse and financial exploitation—and the role each of us can play in preventing it.
Elder abuse is a universal problem, and many older adults suffer abuse, neglect, or exploitation—often at the hands of someone they know and trust. In Walworth County, the ADRC is committed to shedding light on this hidden crisis and providing resources
for prevention, recognition, and reporting.
“Elder abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, income, or background,” says Stefanie Lenz, Lead for the ADRC’s Adult Protective Services unit. “In 2024 alone, our office received more than 500 reports of elder abuse—including 156 cases involving
financial exploitation. The financial losses from those cases totaled over $1.4 million for Walworth County residents. It is imperative that everyone is aware of the signs of elder abuse and how to report it.”
Elder abuse takes many forms—physical, emotional, sexual, financial, neglect, and self-neglect—and its effects can be devastating, even life-threatening. Often, victims remain silent out of fear or dependence on their abuser, making public awareness and vigilance essential.
Recognizing the signs of abuse and knowing how to report it is a vital part of protecting our aging population. Reports can be made anonymously. If you suspect that someone may be a victim of elder abuse, please contact the Walworth County ADRC at 262-741-3400.
For additional information, contact Stefanie Lenz at 262-741-3220 or slenz@co.walworth.wi.us.
About the Walworth County Aging and Disability Resource Center: The ADRC provides information and assistance to older and disabled adults, their friends, family, caregivers, and the public. We can assist by evaluating your current needs and providing
options available to meet the needs of your personal situation. Learn more at www.co.walworth.wi.us/376/Aging-Disability-Resource-Center.
The community is invited to the free, family-friendly program, Novel Motion Circus, sponsored by the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library. Join us on Monday, June 16 at 4:30 p.m. at the Frawley Family Amphitheater at Cravath Lakefront Park.
The event will start out with a performance, followed by 40 minutes of wheel and/or juggling instruction. In the wheel try-it, participants will get to experience moves such as rocking in the wheel, teeter-totter, or standing on top. In the juggling workshop, participants will learn beginner-friendly juggling tricks starting with one ball solo, one ball with a partner, two balls with a partner and two balls solo. For participants excited about learning 3 balls and more, we’ll share tips and tricks and send them home with instructional materials.
All ages are welcome at this program, although it is best for ages 5 and up. There is no cost or registration. Bring your own blanket and/or chair, if desired. You can also sign up for the library’s Summer Reading Program at the event.
For complete information and the full lineup of all events during the Summer Reading Program, visit whitewaterlibrary.org or connect with the library on Facebook and Instagram.
The Irvin L. Young Memorial Library is located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater. The library building is closed June 1-22 due to construction. Curbside services begin on June 23. Contact the library at 262-473-0530 with questions or visit whitewaterlibrary.org.
Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library.
Sam Nickelsburg at the Town Hall [Photo credit Drake White-Bergey]
Photo credit Drake White-Bergey
By Emerson Wolfgang Ellenwood
Whitewater High School rising senior Sam Nickelsburg had an eventful week at the 82nd Session of Badger Boys State at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Nickelsburg was one of over 650 of Wisconsin’s rising seniors selected for the week-long leadership camp. En route to his eventual victory, Nickelsburg delivered multiple speeches, one in front of over 675 students, to secure the coveted position of Lieutenant Governor. The second highest position in the government simulation, Nickelsburg won the final election with over 300 votes.
Fellow Whitewater High School students Quinton O’Toole and Chacha Binagi were also selected for the program and had very successful showings.
Nickelsburg with Gov. Tony Evers and two fellow citizens [Emerson Wolfgang Ellenwood photo]
Selection for Boys State is inherently competitive, making Nickelsburg s notable success among Wisconsin’s best and brightest even more impressive. It marks a continuation in Nickelsburg s record of success at WHS as a three-sport athlete, National Honor Society Member, and talented vocalist. His latest success will be celebrated widely, an achievement that will continue to pay dividends, as it did Thursday when Nickelsburg was able to meet Governor Tony Evers.
“This single week alone, I feel, has changed my life for the better, and it might have encouraged me to join the political side of life,” Nickelsburg stated, adding that “I feel that this is one of the best weeks ever in my life, and I wish more people could participate and join in the program of Badger Boys State.”
Per the camp’s website, Badger Boys State is “A program to change a lifetime, Badger Boys State educates young leaders on how to become more impactful community members of Wisconsin. During the program, high school students between their junior and senior years learn how our government system works by creating their own city, county, and state level governments. Hundreds of participants leave feeling inspired by the lifelong lessons and relationships developed at Badger Boys State each year.” The non-profit is generously sponsored by the American Legion. More information about the program can be found at https://badgerboysstate.org/.
Editor’s note: Emerson Wolfgang Ellenwood is a 2024 graduate of Whitewater High School and 2nd year Counselor at Badger Boys State.
Updated on 6/14/25 @ 8:00 a.m. to correct spelling of Sam’s surname.
According to an article which was posted on gazettextra.com on June 12, “Shumway Appliance in Milton has abruptly closed its doors after 98 years in business. Owner Mike Blabaum told the Gazette on Thursday that he couldn’t share the reason. He also couldn’t say what will happen to people’s appliances that they have ordered and already paid for but not yet received. “I don’t know what the exit strategy is, my attorney is working on that,” he said. “I have nothing more to say.”
Editor’s note: Many Whitewater area residents have probably made purchases from Shumway, as it has been one of our closest appliance stores. Although the business’s web address returns a “page not found” response, the “about us” section of the website still states “We started out as a small TV and appliance store in Milton, Wisconsin in 1927. Much has changed since our beginning, products and technology not the least of which, but the original Shumway mission is still the same – to fill the homes in our community with quality products they can count on while providing top-notch service that makes you feel part of our family.
We are your homegrown appliance store dealing exclusively in Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag and Amana products. Our team know our products and can help you find the perfect appliance for your kitchen or laundry room. Our prices are competitive with any other store around and we are committed to delivering a product and experience that you are happy with and we are proud of.
When you buy from Shumway, you can be confident that we’ll be there for you over the life of your new appliance. From purchase, financing, delivery, installation and service after the sale, you can count on us for everything.
We hope to see you in our store soon!”
The photo on the homepage is from Shumway’s website.
“All We Imagine as Light”
Wednesday, June 18, 1 pm
(Psychological Drama/Romance); Not Rated.
1 hour, 58 minutes (2024).
The light, the lives and the textures of contemporary, working class, Mumbai (formerly Bombay). The New York Times says “a soulful study of the transformative power of friendship and sisterhood, in all its complexities and richness.” Grand prize winner, Cannes Film Festival, 2024. Shown with English subtitles.
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/
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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