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Today is Thursday, May 14, 2026
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Hungry to help others? Head to Jersey Mike’s Subs on Wednesday, March 26 and grab a sub!
Whether in-store or on the app, 100 percent of your purchase will support Special Olympics
Wisconsin. Every single dollar in sales—not just profit—on March 26 from 47 statewide Jersey
Mike’s locations will go to Special Olympics Wisconsin. It’s all part of Jersey Mike’s nationwide
15th Annual Day of Giving.
Jersey Mike’s locations nationwide give 100% of ALL sales on Day of Giving as part of the
company’s annual Month of Giving campaign in March. During this year’s Month of Giving in
March, Jersey Mike’s hopes to surpass last year’s record-breaking $25 million fundraising total.
Proceeds support more than 200 local charities across the country striving to fulfill their missions
and make a difference. Since 2011, Jersey Mike’s Month of Giving has raised more than $113
million for local charities. Day of Giving is Jersey Mike’s busiest day of the year, with some crews
arriving at 4 am!
Throughout the entire month of March, customers can round-up at the register and make a
donation for Jersey Mike’s food and drink coupons. Make those lunch and dinner plans early
and often the final week of March!
WHY: Jersey Mike’s is committed to “Giving…making a difference in someone’s life.” Buy lunch,
dinner or a catered meal and Jersey Mike’s will pay it all forward. For more information, please
visit our website or join the conversation at #JerseyMikesGives.
For over 60 years, Fairhaven Senior Services has been a cornerstone of compassionate care and community engagement in Whitewater. Established in 1962, Fairhaven has remained dedicated to providing a safe, secure, and vibrant environment for adults aged 55+, with a strong emphasis on social engagement, quality care, and a collaborative relationship with UW-Whitewater—setting it apart from senior living communities throughout the region and state.
A Legacy of Care & Innovation
Throughout its history, Fairhaven has been led by only three CEOs, demonstrating remarkable stability and commitment to its mission. The organization continuously invests in its levels of care, most recently completing a $12 million renovation of its assisted living facilities, ensuring residents receive the highest standard of comfort and support. With a dedicated team of 104 staff members and three external agencies, Fairhaven prioritizes personalized and attentive care.
Fairhaven offers a continuum of living options, including:
Prairie Village- Duplex ranch-style homes
Independent apartments- with care level options
Three floors of assisted living, including advanced assisted living
Hearthstone-Memory care
A Deep Connection to the Whitewater Community
One of Fairhaven’s most defining characteristics is its deep-rooted connection to UW-Whitewater. Residents frequently engage with students, faculty, and alumni, attending campus events, collaborating with university organizations, visits to and from athletic teams and welcoming student volunteers. Many Fairhaven residents are retired UW-Whitewater faculty and staff, maintaining a strong tie to the institution that continues to enrich their lives.
Fairhaven’s intergenerational programs and community engagement efforts include:
– Cycling Without Age Program – Community volunteers, including the City Manager, UW-Whitewater Chancellor Dr. Corey King, and Chief of Police Dan Meyer, provide trishaw rides through downtown and the university campus.
– Monthly Dog Treat Donations – Residents craft treats for local K-9 units, Whitewater veterinary clinics, and humane societies averaging almost 1,600 treats with a record of over 2,800.
– Fairhaven Lecture Series – A tradition spanning 40+ years, offering educational programs for residents and the broader community.
– Food Outings & Special Events – Monthly restaurant trips, Food Truck Days, and other engaging activities.
Navigating Challenges in Senior Care
As a leader in senior living and healthcare services, Fairhaven continuously adapts to an evolving healthcare landscape, facing challenges such as:
- Shifts in skilled nursing demand and prioritization of home health care which was a driving factor in the closure of skilled nursing.
- Federal and state funding limitations impacting long-term care facilities.
- Staffing shortages, particularly in nursing recruitment and retention within a small-town environment.
Despite these challenges, Fairhaven remains dedicated to preserving its mission and enhancing the quality of life for every resident.
How Fellow Chamber Members Can Support Fairhaven
Fairhaven encourages Chamber members and the broader community to help support their mission in simple but meaningful ways:
– Follow and share their story on social media- Facebook and Instagram
– Volunteer or engage with residents—including opportunities for adolescents and families to interact with residents.
– Collaborate on events and sponsorships—reach out for opportunities to partner or brainstorm new engagement ideas.
Schedule a tour to become aware of what Fairhaven has to offer.
Fairhaven is committed to amplifying its connection with UW-Whitewater and the Whitewater Community and continuing its tradition of enriching residents’ lives through education, social engagement, and community involvement.
Fairhaven: where life is added to years!
To learn more about Fairhaven Senior Services, visit www.fairhaven.org or follow them on Facebook. Or reach out to Brian Robinson- Director of Marketing, Community Relations & Leisure Services at robinsonb@fairhaven.org or by phone at 262-473-2140. Together, we can help share and celebrate their impact on the Whitewater community!
Submitted by Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce
Images sourced and permitted use granted by Brian Robinson, Director of Marketing, Community Relations & Leisure Services
According to a story on 15WMTV, “On Saturday, March 22 residents who live on Lower Hebron road in Jefferson County say they woke up to their street spray-painted with racial slurs and symbols.
Tom Torre, who lives on Lower Hebron, said this isn’t the first time it’s happened in the area and he’s tired of it. ‘We were shocked and it’s not something that is unusual around here as it has been an issue for at least the last two years,’ said Torre. ‘To be honest I think it’s kids that are involved in this…we don’t need to see it… we have families out here that we’re trying to raise and do good in this world.’ ”
WMTV reported that the marks had been covered over by Saturday afternoon. Per the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, no arrests have been made.
Editor’s note: Lower Hebron Road intersects County Highway N just beyond the Bark River. It was not reported as to where on Lower Hebron Road the graffiti appeared.
Written by Chris Lindeke | Photos by Craig Schreiner, Kyle Winter
For the third consecutive year, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater will welcome thousands of Special Olympics athletes, family and friends to campus for competition and fun.
The Special Olympics Wisconsin Summer Games, set for June 5-7, will include state competitions in cornhole, powerlifting, soccer, tennis, and track and field.
“We are so excited to welcome these talented athletes back to campus for a third straight year,” UW-Whitewater Chancellor Corey A. King said. “As an institution of access, we support and value opportunities to be inclusive of people with all abilities and skill levels. Our experienced staff and beautiful facilities will be ready to welcome everyone, and I can’t wait to join in the celebration of these athletes.”
“Special Olympics Wisconsin is incredibly grateful to have UW-Whitewater as the host for our largest state games once again this summer,” said Chad Hershner, president and CEO of Special Olympics Wisconsin. “Their commitment to fostering inclusion, excellence, and community support aligns perfectly with our mission to create opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This partnership strengthens our efforts to provide athletes with an unforgettable experience, and we are thrilled to see the Warhawk spirit shine as we come together to celebrate the power of sport and unity.”
The event begins Thursday, June 5, with the opening ceremonies at Perkins Stadium. The evening includes the parade of athletes, lighting of the torch, and remarks from leaders from Special Olympics Wisconsin, UW-Whitewater, and the community.
Competition takes place Friday-Saturday, June 6-7, at UW-Whitewater’s athletic facilities, including Kachel Fieldhouse inside the Williams Center, Rex Foster Track, the Warhawk Outdoor Tennis Complex, and the intramural fields.
Since 1997, Special Olympics has been offering free health screenings and education to Special Olympics athletes in a welcoming, fun environment as part of their Healthy Athletes program. Health Promotions, which focuses on illness prevention and nutrition, and Opening Eyes, which promotes vision and eye health, will take place on Friday, June 6. Special Smiles, which focuses on dentistry, will take place on Saturday, June 7. All Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes — including those not competing at the Games — are encouraged to attend. The Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation and Golisano Foundation, and the CDC make the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes program possible.
Volunteers will be needed to staff events and stations throughout the weekend. Sign up to volunteer and stay tuned to the Special Olympics Wisconsin webpage for more information about volunteer needs in the coming months.
UW-Whitewater’s Continuing Education staff hosts the State Summer Games. Last year, the department welcomed more than 12,000 visitors to campus through youth summer camps, and other events run by external partners, including the Special Olympics Wisconsin Summer Games and the Drum Corps International Whitewater Classic.
UW-Whitewater is a leader in youth safety, recently hosting a statewide Youth Safety Summit in partnership with the Universities of Wisconsin and Tree House Child and Family Center of Elkhorn.
“We are fortunate to work with a collaborative Special Olympics Wisconsin staff as well as generous partners on campus and in the local community,” said Lucas Peterson, director of camps and conferences. “Our collective goal is to deliver a uniquely satisfying experience that these athletes remember for the rest of their lives.”
City of Whitewater Public Test of Election Machines – Monday @ 10:00 a.m.
City of Whitewater Municipal Building, 2nd floor Cravath Lakefront Conference Room, 312 W. Whitewater St.
City of Whitewater Urban Forestry Commission – Monday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible action on retaining the stump and replacing all signage at the
Territorial Oak until a time when rot or hazard dictates removal of the stump; Discussion regarding annual tree sale
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West 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:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86740339960?pwd=Vq2Y4CsbTA4vMOaVIiqno7Tz0JxQWx.1
Meeting ID: 867 4033 9960 Passcode: 110869
One tap mobile +13126266799,,86740339960#,,,,110869#
City of Whitewater Police and Fire Commission – Monday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes CLOSED SESSION, FOLLOWED BY OPEN SESSION: Interview of Police Detective Candidate
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room, 312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/905031261
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 905-031-261
United States: +1 (408) 650-3123
City of Whitewater Finance Committee – Tuesday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion with Greg Johnson from Ehler’s regarding TIF and Developer’s Agreements, Contract with new city attorney, Stipend for city manager for covering economic development during possible vacancy in director position
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West 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: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88542815829
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 885 4281 5829
Please join the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in congratulating our 569 Fall 2024 graduates from the Eau Claire and Barron County campuses.
Local students who received degrees and their fields of study are:
Whitewater, WI
Emma Jordan, College of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Editor’s note: The above press release was received from UW-Eau Claire.
Join the Whitewater Common Sense Citizens and citizens of Whitewater, WI on March 27, 2025 at 6 pm at 841 Brewhouse (located 841 E Milwaukee St, Whitewater, WI 53190).
We will be discussing multifamily apartment subsidies (TIF – Tax Increment Financing projects) and their impact on the taxpayers and community of the City of Whitewater.
For more information, contact us:
Whitewater Common Sense Citizens
Ben Holden
414-659-0938
atucraze@gmail.com
FB page: Whitewater Common Sense Citizens
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571944004505
The Whitewater Unified School District is proposing a $30 million capital referendum on the April 1st ballot to address our schools’ most pressing needs. To assist community members in learning more about these needs, a set of short videos is linked at www.whitewaterreferendum.org. Additionally, these videos will be shared out on the school district’s social media platforms. For community members who have remaining questions or feedback, please complete the brief form at the bottom of the www.whitewaterreferendum.org site.
Readers may view all fourteen of the videos from the link above, but for a few days the Banner has featured several videos per day with introductions to the direct links that will be provided. The earlier post regarding tech ed may be viewed here, and the one showing the ag area is available here.
Laura Masbruch: Robotics Team – 2:09 (two minutes, nine seconds)
Laura Masbruch, Robotics Team Advisor and veteran Math/Computer Science Teacher, showcases the current robotics team space. Limited by space constraints, the program would greatly benefit from the expansion and improvements funded by the April 1 referendum. This video may be viewed here.
WHS Cafeteria Crowding Timelapse – :53
This timelapse video shows the inability of the Whitewater High School cafeteria to accommodate the school’s student population and the crowding that occurs daily.
Dave Friend: Doors in Need of Repair/Safe Doors – :44
Dave Friend, Director of Buildings and Grounds, highlights one of the many problematic doors at Whitewater High School. Many district doors are in poor condition, compromising safety. Safe and secure doors and entryways are a key focus of the April 1 referendum. Passing the referendum will provide funding to replace these doors, ensuring a safer environment for students, staff, and the community. Friend demonstrates what a high-quality, secure door should look like. This video may be viewed with this link.
Dave Friend: New Bus Loop and Parent Drop-off/Pickup Area at WMS – 1:18
A new bus loop serving both Lincoln Elementary and Whitewater Middle School would open up the former middle school bus loop for parent drop-off/pickup of students. This safety enhancement is among the improvements that would be funded by the referendum. Please click here to view this video.
Dave Friend: Washington Elementary School Windows – :56
WUSD Buildings and Grounds Director, Dave Friend, explains the urgent need for new windows at Washington Elementary School. Click here to view this video.
Dave Friend: WHS Tennis Courts – :34
Dave Friend provides a look at Whitewater High School’s aging tennis courts, built in the 1990’s. If the April 1 referendum is approved, they will be replaced with modern, safer courts for student-athletes and the community. This is just one of the many capital improvements included in the referendum. This video may be viewed here.
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Whitewater Unified School District.
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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