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Today is Saturday, October 10, 2026
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Come enjoy encouraging Christian music and a challenging message from the Bible, presented by the Southland Ministry Team! The SMT is a traveling ensemble (vocal and instrumental quartet) whose purposes include supporting the local church in music and preaching, encouraging young people to live for God, and promoting the opportunities of Southland Christian Ministries. The SMT also offers print and digital resources designed to help in spiritual growth.
The public is cordially invited.
For more information regarding the concert, please call the church at 262-473-2224 or send an email to kmbc@kmbcwi.org.
“Dungeons & Dragons: Twenty-Sided Tavern” at the Young Auditorium, 930 W. Main St., Whitewater
Tuesday, October 14 & Wednesday, October 15, 7:00 p.m.
Tickets start at $46
Free parking is available in lots 1 and 2 (lot 2 is the most convenient to the venue).
The global phenomenon that is DUNGEONS & DRAGONS is now live on-stage in an experience that Nerdist calls “Rip-roaring funny,” and “Truly a wonder to behold!” Join us for an interactive fantasy adventure where you choose your heroes, battle monsters and help three adventurers on an epic quest to save the world. A blend of theatre, gaming and one-of-a-kind storytelling, this show is for you whether you are curious about D&D, a die-hard gamer or a lover of adventure. No matter what quest you conquer, this experience will never be the same twice!
TIME OUT NY Gives it 4 Stars:
“★ ★ ★ ★! Whether or not you know much about D&D going in, it’s an adventuring party you won’t want to miss.”
“The Life of Chuck”
Tuesday, October 14, 1 pm
(Drama/Fantasy/Whimsy)
Rated R (language); 1 hour, 51 minutes (2025).
Based on a short story by Stephen King. Praised for its deep, thought-provoking themes about life, death and human connection. Three chapters in the life of an ordinary man, Charles Krantz (Tom Hiddleston). Also stars Mark Hamill.
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/
On Thursday, October 16, join Josh Schoemann, Republican Candidate for Governor, for a meet and greet at 841 Brewhouse! 5:30 – 7pm.
This is an excellent opportunity to talk with Josh, hear about his vision for the future of Wisconsin, and share your thoughts!
RSVP to host Mike Smith – 262.366.0467
Editor’s Note: The above announcement was provided by the campaign. The Whitewater Banner is pleased to provide candidates whose name will be on area ballots the opportunity for a limit of one post each during the primary and the general campaigns. All of the announcements during the primary campaign will feature the homepage image used on this post. The Banner does not endorse candidates.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. This week’s image is a rare one depicting the old Union School and Universalist Church at the corner of Center and Prairie Streets. On the left is the Union School, the second elementary school in Whitewater built in 1854. It was demolished for the old “Big Brick” elementary and high school built on this site in 1884. That building burned in 1927 and the site is today the “Big Brick Park.” The church is the Universalist Church, built in 1868-69. In 1921 it became “Salisbury Hall,” a cafeteria site for the Normal School (UWW). It sold subscription meals to both students and faculty. It burned in 1929 and houses were built on the site (southwest corner of Center and Prairie Streets). This image dates to c.1880.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(3285ST, Whitewater Historical Society)
LWV Whitewater Area Program on The Art of Healing: Exploring Mental Well-Being Through Creative Expression
The League of Women Voters Whitewater Area is pleased to announce a public program on The Art of Healing: Exploring Mental Well-Being Through Creative Expression on Thursday, October 16th, 6:30PM – 8:00PM at the Cultural Arts Center – Whitewater Arts Alliance, 902 W Main Street, Whitewater. Overflow parking is available in the First English Lutheran Church parking lot, 401 W Main Street, and on Park Street.
The program will be a panel discussion on the profound connection between creative expression and mental wellness, moving beyond the traditional framework of therapy to explore the arts as a powerful tool for resilience, healing, and self-discovery. A diverse panel of experts will share their unique perspectives on how engaging in the arts can foster emotional processing and improve overall mental health.
Panelists include: Kristen Monday, pre-K-12th-grade art teacher and certified art therapist; James Olm, composer, lyricist, and librettist; Verónica Soria-Martínez, UWW Assistant Professor of Art Education; Christian Ellenwood, composer, clarinetist, and UWW Professor of Music; Professor Emerita Barbara Grubel, recently retired from 22 years of dedicated service in the UWW Theatre/Dance Department; and, Caleb Flack, Assistant Professor in the School Psychology Graduate Program within the UWW Department of Psychology.
Please join us as the panelists share the therapeutic benefits of creative expression, explore the science behind these benefits, share real-world applications, and discuss how to make the arts accessible to a wider audience for personal and community healing.
You do not need to be a League member to attend and refreshments will be served. For questions or further information please contact Dwight C. Watson, dwight.watsondcw@gmail.com.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Visit our website at https://my.lwv.org/wisconsin/whitewater-area and like us on Facebook.
| October Peak Day Is Almost Here! |
| As the seasons change, millions of migratory birds are taking off on their incredible journeys across plains, seas, mountains, crossing multiple international borders along the way. This natural event brings us together to celebrate the second peak date of World Migratory Bird Day, on Saturday, 11th of October. This year’s theme, “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities,” has inspired global action with energy and purpose. Together, we are raising awareness on the threats birds face and driving change to create a world where both birds and people can thrive together. Conservationists, educators, and citizens around the globe have answered the call to create bird-friendly cities and communities in celebration of World Migratory Bird Day. From community cleanups and educational workshops to policy advocacy and art contests, their efforts show a shared commitment to protecting migratory birds and their habitats. |
| Why “Shared Spaces” Matter More Than Ever |
| Migratory birds face major challenges in and around the urban landscape. Urban growth destroys habitats, light pollution disorients flocks, and window collisions kill millions of birds every year. The World Migratory Bird Day 2025 campaign proposes practical ways for governments, businesses, and individuals to create bird-friendly cities and communities. Actions being encouraged through this year’s campaign include: – Plan bird-friendly cities: protect habitats in urban development. – Plant native plants: provide food, shelter, and support pollinators. – Prevent collisions: use bird-safe glass or window films. – Dim the lights: reduce nighttime light during migration. – Avoid pesticides: choose organic methods to protect insects and water. – Say “No” to plastic waste: prevent ingestion and entanglement. – Keep cats away: keep cats indoors, leashed, or in enclosures. – Educate & advocate: raise awareness and support bird-friendly policies. |
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Sherry Stanek from World Migratory Bird Day.
The Whitewater Girls’ Swim Team took on Delavan-Darien on Tuesday, October 7th, and came home with a big 101.5–59.5 victory! The Whippets continue to show incredible progress and determination in the pool, with more time drops and strong swims across the board.
Meet Highlights:
- In the 200 Freestyle, Paige Kollwelter dropped 2 seconds, Grace Smith dropped 8 seconds with a 2:30.32, and Maggie Maas dropped 2 seconds with a 2:23.14.
- In the 200 IM, Atreya Wilson and Emma Maas each dropped 3 seconds, while Grace Coleman had a huge 9-second drop off her previous best!
- Jalayne Hanson continues to improve in the 50 Freestyle, while Charlotte Hajewski swam a season-best 31.65.
- In the 100 Freestyle, Grace Smith knocked off 3 more seconds for a 1:07.28, and Storm DePorter dropped 2 seconds with a 1:19.52.
- Lucy Davis swam a strong 500 Freestyle, breaking 7 minutes for the first time with a 6:58.32! Maya Davis had a huge 8-second drop, finishing with a lifetime best of 7:56.72.
- Emma Maas put on one of the most exciting races of the night in the 100 Breaststroke, going head-to-head with a Comet swimmer and out-touching her at the wall for a new best time of 1:37.46!
The Whippets continue to shine with each meet, showing hard work, confidence, and team spirit!
Next up, the team will travel to Beloit Memorial on Tuesday, October 14th. Swimming starts at 5:30 pm — we hope to see you there!
Article and Photo Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
ReynoldsSM07@uww.edu
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
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