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

Today is Wednesday, October 7, 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.

Whippets Make a Splash at Conference Relays

September 4, 2026

The Whippets hosted Conference Relays on Thursday, September 3rd, and the girls definitely made a splash! The Whippets finished 7th overall while putting together some fantastic swims and showing off all the hard work they’ve put in over the past couple of weeks.

The night kicked off with the 200 Medley Relay, where the Whippets finished 7th overall. Maya Davis posted an impressive 39.38 in the 50 Breast, Maggie Maas swam a 33.10 Fly split, and Emma Maas closed out the relay with a quick 29.21 in the 50 Free!

Next up was the 200 Freestyle Relay, where both Whippet relays put together some great swims. The relay of Marijose Verduzco, Caitlin Alford, Kamor Douglas and Alejandra Aranda-Jaramillo finished 15th in 2:38.33. Kamor posted a quick 45.41, Alejandra dropped 3 seconds with a 41.37, and Caitlin posted a lifetime best of 36.00!

The second relay of Laken De Porter, Grace Smith, Storm De Porter and Finley De Porter finished 9th overall in 2:09.63, with all four girls posting best times! Laken led things off with a lifetime-best 32.36 in the 50 Free.

In the 400 IM Relay, where each swimmer races a 100 IM, the girls finished 7th in 5:41.07. Emma Maas led off with an impressive 1:19.47, Maya Davis swam the 100 IM for the first time in her career and posted a 1:24.88, and Storm De Porter dropped 2 seconds off her previous time!

After a quick break, the girls were back in the water for the 200 Fly Relay. Maggie Maas continued her impressive night by dropping even more time to swim a 32.91 Fly split. Marijose Verduzco and Grace Smith both raced the Fly for the first time this season, while Storm De Porter closed out the relay with a quick 39.64.

🔥 The highest finish of the night came in the Splash & Dash — the 100 Free Relay! Finley De Porter, Emma Maas, Laken De Porter and Maggie Maas teamed up to finish 4th overall in 58.72!

The 500 Crescendo Relay featured two Whippet teams. The B Relay finished 12th, with Kamor Douglas dropping a second off her 50 Free and Marijose Verduzco dropping 10 seconds off her lifetime-best 200 Free with a 2:56.62! The A Relay finished 7th overall, with Finley De Porter leading off with a best time of 33.57 in the 50 Free. Laken De Porter swam a strong 1:17.08 in the 100 Free, Grace Smith posted a 1:55.37 in the 150, and Maggie Maas brought it home in the 200 with a 2:25.79.

The 400 Backstroke Relay was up next, with the Whippets finishing 8th overall. Grace Smith — 1:36.19, Caitlin Alford — 1:41.70, Marijose Verduzco — 1:31.00, and Alejandra Aranda-Jaramillo — 2:16.81 all put together solid swims.

💪 The 400 Breaststroke Relay was another highlight of the night! Maya Davis, Storm De Porter and Emma Maas all stepped up in a big way. Maya posted a lifetime best of 1:27.28, Storm swam the 100 Breast for the first time in her career with a strong 1:58.22, and Emma dropped 4 seconds to finish with a 1:29.25.

The girls closed out the meet with the 400 Freestyle Relay, finishing 8th overall in 5:17.83. All four swimmers posted best times! Laken dropped 8 seconds with a 1:17.41, Finley swam a 1:21.25, Caitlin dropped 4 seconds with a 1:25.79, and Maya dropped 4 seconds with a 1:13.38 to bring the relay home.

It was a night full of PRs, first-time swims, big time drops, and some seriously fun racing! The girls are putting in the work, and it’s exciting to see that work starting to show up on the scoreboard.

NEXT UP: HOME MEET! 🐾
📅 Thursday, September 10th
📍 Whitewater — HOME
🆚 Badger & Platteville/Lancaster
⏰ 5:30 PM
Come out and cheer on your Whippet swimmers! 🏊‍♀️❤️🤍

Article and Photos Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
ReynoldsSM07@uww.edu

Whippet Runners Compete at Cam Rock Invite

September 4, 2026

The Whippets charged into Labor Day Weekend at a brand-new meet on the schedule, the Cam Rock Invite, hosted by Deerfield/Cambridge at Cam Rock Park #2!

After a challenging week of conditions, the team showed great toughness and raced with guts. Five of our six girls ran their fastest times of the season! Virginia Nelson led the way, coming within striking distance of her lifetime personal best and earning a medal with an impressive 11th-place finish overall.

Varsity Boys’ Race

The boys brought plenty of energy as well, putting together a series of strong efforts. Freshman Marcus Roe had the standout race of the day, making a huge jump from his first race to his second. His improvement is a great sign of what’s ahead as the season continues!

Now it’s time to shift gears. The Whippets will take a week away from racing to focus on a great training block as we continue building fitness and getting ready for the heart of the season. 

We’ll also be busy making good on those salt fundraiser sales, with deliveries scheduled for 3:45–6:30 p.m. on Friday, September 11.

The next time we toe the line will be at the Dana Wadell Invite, hosted by Marshall in Cottage Grove. We’re just getting started, and this team has plenty more to show!

Full results: Cam Rock Invite Results

Article Submitted by Chad Carstens
Whitewater High School Head Cross Country Coach
ccarstens@wwusd.org
Photo Courtesy of Emily Roe

Our Readers Share: Pandion Haliaetus

September 4, 2026

Steve Watson shares photos of the first pandion haliaetus (osprey) he has seen this year. The photos were taken at Cravath Lake on the morning of September 3.

Greater Whitewater Committee Set to Host UWW Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

September 4, 2026

The Greater Whitewater Committee is set to host the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Dr. Pieter deHart, to do a meet and greet at an upcoming meeting.

This event will take place on Thursday, September 10th at 7:00 a.m. at Jessica’s Family Restaurant: 140 W Main St, Whitewater, WI 53190.

Dr. Pieter deHart

Dr. Pieter deHart is the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he is responsible for administering all academic programs, ensuring and enhancing the quality of undergraduate and graduate education, and ultimately ensuring that academic integrity and quality remain at the center of all activities across the university. Prior to this position, he held the role of Associate Provost for Research and Dean of Graduate Studies at Minnesota State University, Mankato, serving as chief academic officer for graduate education and chief research officer at the state’s second largest institute of higher education. Earlier leadership positions include service as the Associate Vice Chancellor for Graduate Studies & Research at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, as well as multiple positions in Maine, Virginia, and Massachusetts. As a marine biologist by training, Dr. Pieter deHart conducts research in ecology and conservation through collaborations in Brazil, southern Africa, and western Europe. He holds a Ph.D. in Marine Biology (University of Alaska Fairbanks), an M.A. in Biology (Boston University), and a B.S. in Marine Biology (University of Rhode Island). When not wearing his academic hat, he can be found swimming, running, or cross-country skiing, practicing one of multiple languages he regularly speaks, and/or enjoying fermented foods.

The GWC’s upcoming monthly meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 10th at 7:00 a.m. at Jessica’s Family Restaurant: 140 W Main St, Whitewater, WI 53190. The public is more than welcome to attend this meet and greet with Dr. Pieter deHart. If you are interested in attending, you must RSVP. To reserve your spot, contact Jeff Knight at jpk@knightpublicaffairs.com or 920.728.0662 by Wednesday, September 9th.

“We are very excited to welcome the new Provost, Dr. Pieter deHart,” said GWC President, Jeffery Knight. “He definitely embodies the Warhawk Mission and will be a great asset to the Whitewater Community.” 

For further details, please contact Jeffery Knight at 920.728.0662 or jpk@knightpublicaffairs.com. 

About the GWC
The GWC is an action-oriented group committed to collaborating with citizens, elected officials, and policy makers to identify, craft, and implement a pro-business agenda. The agenda advances the economic, education, and social policies needed to energize and secure the Whitewater area’s economic future, as well as protect Whitewater’s quality of life.

Christine Barwick joins First Citizens State Bank

September 4, 2026

Nate Parrish, President & CEO of First Citizens State Bank, is pleased to announce that Christine Barwick has joined First Citizens State Bank as a Loan Compliance Officer at the Whitewater Main Office, located at 207 W Main Street, Whitewater, Wisconsin.

Christine Barwick

Christine brings over 16 years of banking experience with her background spanning leadership roles in loan modification and default servicing, compliance education and strategic project management. Prior to banking her experience includes property/casualty underwriting and leadership roles in agent licensing preparation, call center management and new leader development. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin- Madison, with a concentration in business and education.

In making the announcement, Nate Parrish said, “We are excited to welcome Christine to First Citizens State Bank. Her extensive banking experience is a valuable addition to our team. We look forward to the positive impact she will have.”

Outside of banking Christine enjoys volunteering in Scouting & Meals on Wheels and exploring local hiking trails and lakes.

Christine commented, “I am thrilled to join a community bank that genuinely cares about its neighbors and local businesses. I look forward to working with the talented team at First Citizens State Bank to build on the strong compliance culture in support of our commitment to our customers and organizational goals.”

First Citizens State Bank, locally owned and operated since 1863, is committed to serving the communities in which we live, work, and do business. The bank takes pride in building lasting partnerships with organizations, businesses, and individuals throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. First Citizens State Bank has Full-service offices in Whitewater, East Troy, and Palmyra. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Nate Parrish, President First Citizens State Bank
NParrish@firstcitizensww.com

New Artist’s Work on Display at FCCU

September 4, 2026

Caitlin Horvatin will be displaying her work at Fort Community Credit Union until October 30th.

Information and Photos Submitted by Rhonda Kolander
fccuartgallery@yahoo.com

#FlashbackFriday with the Historical Society: Laboring on Whitewater Street Around 1900

September 4, 2026

It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.

Monday is Labor Day and here we see some men “laboring” on Whitewater Street around 1900. We have a number of photos of building old city hall and this may be one that was taken as a crew was preparing the site for that building. In any event it shows how hard site work was at the time. Although. . . it could have been staged with local dignitaries–why? Several of the men are in shirts, ties, vests, and jackets. Don’t know if the average laborer wore that type of clothing while working. The man at the right in overalls looks more authentic. Happy Labor Day!

Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.

(3901P, edited, Whitewater Historical Society)

Our Readers Share: Deer at Hillside Cemetery

September 3, 2026

Photos of deer at Hillside Cemetery courtesy of Ed Grosskreutz

Obituaries

Obituary: Sally A. Schutte, 73

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

Obituary: Zachariah “Zach” Schoenke, 41

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

Obituary: Carla Winn, 82, of Kansas

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

Celebration of Life: Susan K. Miller

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

Obituary: JoAnn E Harrop, 95, of AL

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

Obituary: Russell O. “Russ” Johnson, 88

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

Obituary: Marcia Zingg, 75

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

Obituary: Amanda Jean Hunter, 49

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

Obituary: Ellen Eichmiller, 82

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

Obituary: Janet Quinn, 71, Jefferson

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