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Today is Thursday, May 14, 2026
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The City of Whitewater – Department of Public Works will collect bagged leaves and yard waste the:
Week of March 31 – April 4, 2025 and Week of April 7 – April 11, 2025
*Dates may be subject to change in the event we experience accumulating snow during this time.
Yard waste is defined as leaves, grass clippings, and yard and garden debris. Yard waste must be bagged in 33 gallon or smaller biodegradable, clear or transparent bags only. Yard waste will not be collected if not properly bagged or placed in non-transparent or black bags. The City offers Bio-Bags, at the Finance Department window, in the fall only.
All bags must be brought to the curb by 7:00 a.m., on Thursday, April 10, for collection by City staff.
Residents may also use the compost site to dispose of bagged leaves and yard waste. The compost site, 599 N. Jefferson Street, will on open on Saturdays beginning April 5, from 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and Wednesdays, starting April 9, from 3:00 p.m. –7:00 p.m. The city will provide a loader for loading chips and compost beginning Saturday, April 5. This loader will be available on the first Saturday of each month until the site closes for the season on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.
Residents requesting brush collection should call (262) 473-0560 by noon on Monday to make an appointment for pick up on Tuesdays.
NOTICE: City Ordinance Chapter 12.08 – Street Obstructions, Section: 12.08.010 – Residents are prohibited from depositing any yard waste debris on…right of ways other than City of Whitewater designated days.
Brad Marquardt
Director of Public Works
bmarquardt@whitewater-wi.gov
For other requests, visit https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/RequestTracker.aspx.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Unites lives.
Enjoy an afternoon of family-centered activities on Saturday, April 12 with the annual International Children’s Day celebration at Lincoln Elementary School, Whitewater.
This free fun family event will include live music, games, crafts, face-painting and other activities for children of all ages and runs from noon until 4 p.m. Information will be available on local and regional services for families. A variety of international food offerings from local organizations will also be for cash sale.
Activities include:
1 p.m.: Meet the author Ruth Molina-Mota who will read from her book Las Aventuras de Diego y Andy: Animales Unicos y Asombrosos. The book will be read bilingually.
2 p.m.: Musical performance by Whitewater High School students.
3 p.m: A read aloud event.
“Whitewater prides itself on being a community that is supportive of all children and their families. April 12 is an opportunity to celebrate International Children’s Day and those who care for, support, and encourage children here and around the world. We are so pleased that another child-focused organization, the Whitewater Kiwanis Breakfast Club, is one of our sponsors for this volunteer-based event,” said Miguel Aranda, planning committee member.
The World Conference for the Well-being of Children in Geneva, Switzerland, proclaimed June 1 to be International Children’s Day in 1925. It is usually marked with speeches on children’s rights and wellbeing, and other events involving or dedicated to children. A similar event, Universal Children’s Day, falls on Nov. 20. It was established by the United Nations in 1954 and aims to promote the welfare of children around the world. The first celebration of International Children’s Day in Whitewater was held in April of 2022. Many countries around the world celebrate the day in late April.
Children must be accompanied by an adult at this event. The food offers are cash only.
Sponsors of International Children’s Day Celebration include Whitewater Unified School District, Whitewater Unites Lives, and Whitewater Kiwanis Breakfast Club.
Whitewater Arts Alliance Hosts 2025 Wisconsin Regional Art Program (WRAP)
Exhibition and Workshop
The Whitewater Arts Alliance (WAA) is proud to announce the 2025
Wisconsin Regional Art Program (WRAP) Exhibition, running from May 1-31, 2025, at
the Cultural Arts Center, located at 402 W. Main Street, Whitewater, WI. This exhibition
provides artists from across Wisconsin with a platform to showcase their creativity,
enhance their skills, and connect with others in the arts community.
WRAP offers a welcoming environment where artists can learn, share ideas, and find
inspiration. Regional winners will advance to a statewide exhibit, giving them an even
greater opportunity to showcase their talent. The exhibition will feature a variety of
artwork, including 3D sculptures, acrylics, oils, and collages. Supporting local artists
through programs like WRAP is central to WAA’s mission to foster a thriving arts
community.
Submissions Still Accepted
The final date for online entries for the WRAP exhibit is Sunday, April 20, 2025. Entries
can also be submitted in person during the artwork drop-off on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
For more details about submitting art, visit WRAP 2025 (May) — Whitewater Arts Alliance.
Special Watercolor Workshop
Artist and WRAP juror Tom Jewell will host a watercolor workshop titled “How to
Develop Composition in Your Paintings” on Saturday, May 3, from 9 am-12 pm. The
workshop will take place prior to the Awards Reception in the afternoon, providing an
excellent opportunity to develop new skills before the celebration.
During the workshop, Tom will share examples of composition techniques from his own
artwork and guide participants in creating cohesive compositions. Jewell says, “Good
composition is the backbone of any successful painting. In this workshop, I’ll not only
share techniques to create balanced and engaging compositions, but also help
participants bring their own ideas to life. Together, we’ll lay the groundwork for paintings
that truly resonate.”
Attendees are encouraged to bring ideas or photos to work from, as Tom will provide
personalized feedback to each participant. Refreshments will be provided. The cost for
those who do not have work in the WRAP Exhibit is $10 per person, which includes all
supplies and refreshments. The cost is free for those exhibiting work in the WRAP
exhibit as their entry fee includes workshop admission. Space is limited, so early
registration is encouraged. Visit whitewaterarts.org/wrap-2025 to reserve your spot.
Awards Reception
Later that day, join us from 12 pm-4 pm for the Awards Reception, where we’ll celebrate
the accomplishments of participating artists and bring the arts community together.
Exhibit Hours
The WRAP exhibit will be open to the public Thursdays through Sundays, from
12 pm-4 pm throughout May. Admission is free, and for those unable to attend in person,
the exhibit will also be available to view online.
The Whitewater Arts Alliance invites the entire community to experience the 2025
WRAP Exhibition, and support the talented artists of Wisconsin. For more details about
the exhibition or workshop, visit whitewaterarts.org.
For more information, please contact:
Kim Adams, Gallery Director, Whitewater Arts Alliance
Phone: 608-201-2151
Email: wwartsalliance@gmail.com
Website: whitewaterarts.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/wwartsalliance
“Celebrating the Arts and Creating Community!”
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s Pi Sigma Epsilon (PSE) – Beta Gamma Chapter earned national recognition at the PSE National Convention on March 19-22 in Cincinnati, Ohio.
The national convention included more than 160 competitors from more than 30 schools.
The largest competition, the year-long Pro-Am Sell-A-Thon, trains and develops all competitors in all aspects of the sales process and consists of three rounds. UW-Whitewater had seven of the 35 semifinalists and three of the top five finishers.
UW-Whitewater also claimed the Top Team award for highest number of participants in a chapter and for having at least one member among the top 10 of the year-long competition.
UW-Whitewater’s PSE – Beta Gamma chapter is a marketing, sales and business fraternity on the UW-Whitewater campus. The group focuses on professional development with events throughout each semester, including resume building, interview training and newly introduced AI workshops. The chapter is advised by marketing faculty members Rob Boostrom, associate professor, Dennis Kopf, associate professor, and Karen Whalen, lecturer.
The university’s College of Business and Economics supports several award-winning student organizations at the university. For more information on the college, visit uww.edu/cobe.
Iron pour at Wisconsin Makers April 12
Wisconsin Makers will host its eighth annual iron pour on Saturday, April 12.
The public is invited to this family-friendly event at the regional makerspace, located at 200 E. Clay St. in Whitewater.
Spectators are welcome to watch the “pour team” — Teresa “Tree” Lind, a University of Wisconsin-Whitewater lecturer of art and design — and her students and alumni melt cast iron in an outdoor furnace and then fill sand scratch molds with the liquid metal.
Those wishing to make their own casting may buy a scratch mold square to personalize with their design that day, starting at 9 a.m. Each scratch mold must be completed no later than 11:15 a.m.
By noon, the outdoor forge should have reached 2,700 degrees and be ready for the pour. Lind and her team will fill buckets with molten iron and pour it into the sand scratch molds. They will present the completed castings to participants by mid-afternoon.
The per-person cost is $25. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. All ages are welcome, but youngsters must be accompanied by an adult.
During the iron pour, grilled brats, chips, water and soda will be available for purchase.
Scratch mold workshop set
Persons wishing to get a head start on their squares may attend a scratch mold workshop at the makerspace Friday, April 11, from 5 to 8 p.m. Pizza will be available for $1 per slice.
“Your unique design will be preserved in cast iron for ages to come,” said Wisconsin Makers President Al Jewer, adding that past years’ iron pours each have drawn more than 100 attendees. “This is a wonderful opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art.”
To get a feel for what an iron pour entails, please view a short YouTube video of the 2017 event: https://youtu.be/Q5HgV94OPe4.
Wisconsin Makers is a nonprofit regional makerspace (community workshop) offering an affordable, collaborative and educational environment that inspires people of all ages to become innovators by unlocking their skills through continual experimentation and training. Work areas/equipment include: 3-D printing, laser engraving, machining, welding/fabrication, electronics, blacksmithing, woodworking, ceramics/pottery, jewelry making, arts/crafts, quilting and more.
For more information on the iron pour or scratch mold workshop, or to learn about the makerspace or memberships, visit Wisconsin Makers’ Facebook page at @wisconsinmakers or call Jewer at (630) 430-9498.
Updated: 4/8/25 @ 3:30 p.m. to add gallery hours (Thursday through Sunday, 12-4 p.m.)
The Whitewater Arts Alliance and the Whitewater Unified School District (WUSD) are excited to announce the 2025 Art Exhibition, Let Kindness Be My Muse. This annual event, showcasing artwork by students from all five WUSD schools, is a proud part of the Be Kind Whitewater, a grassroots, community-based, non-partisan group that promotes kindness, connection, civility, and creative expression for the betterment of our community and region.
The exhibition runs from April 3 to April 27, 2025, Thursday through Sunday from 12-4 p.m., at the Cultural Arts Center, 402 W. Main St., Whitewater. The Arts Alliance will celebrate with a closing reception on Saturday, April 26, from 12 pm-3 pm with refreshments, music, and an awards presentation to recognize the students’ efforts.
Kim Adams, Whitewater Arts Alliance Gallery Director, shared, “This exhibition brings our community together and highlights student talent. It has become the most attended annual event at the WAA, with nearly 150 community members and students at last year’s event.”
Come check out the students’ work and join us for a fun day of community and art. It’s a great way to celebrate kindness and creativity as part of the Be Kind Whitewater initiative.
WAA thanks the sponsor of this event: Leif E. Knudsen, CPA, S.C.
2nd Annual WMS Mattress Fundraiser for Washington DC & New York trips in 2025 and 2026
Whitewater High School’s FBLA students recently traveled to Green Bay for the State Leadership Conference and brought home some impressive achievements!
Our students made the most of their trip, combining competition with valuable learning experiences. They enjoyed tours of the iconic Lambeau Field, explored a few local Green Bay businesses, and visited the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.
But the real excitement was in the competition! We are thrilled to announce the following outstanding results:
- Ameera Lin impressed the judges with her poise and communication skills, earning a top 12 placement in Introduction to Public Speaking.
- The creative trio of Zoe Zei, Maggie Maas, and Maddie Morton showcased their storytelling and technical talents, securing 7th place in Digital Video Production.
- Lilian Navejas-Ortiz demonstrated her strong foundation in business, achieving 7th place in Human Resource Management.
- And a special congratulations to Atreya Wilson, who earned 1st place in Entrepreneurship! Atreya’s innovation and dedication have earned her the honor of representing Whitewater Unified School District at the FBLA National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, California this summer!
We are incredibly proud of all our students for their hard work, professionalism, and spirit of excellence. Way to go, Whippets!
Article and Photos Submitted by Baron West
Whitewater High School FBLA Advisor
bwest@wwusd.org
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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