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Today is Monday, October 12, 2026
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The City of Whitewater – Department of Public Works will collect Christmas trees on Tuesday, January 7, and Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Please place your tree on the terrace by 6:00 a.m. on these dates. Residents who wish to have a tree picked up after the above scheduled dates must call the Department of Public Works at 473-0560 before 12:00 noon on Monday, the day before Tuesday’s collection.
Trees that have been flocked or contain wire will not be collected by the city. Please place these trees, on your terrace, for collection by John’s Disposal on the second Thursday of the month, your bulk pick up day.
The Greater Whitewater Committee is Set to Host Director of Parks, Recreation, and Facilities for the City of Whitewater, Kevin Boehm, as a Guest Speaker at the January Meeting providing an update on the status of the Aquatic Center.
The Greater Whitewater Committee (GWC) is set to host Director of Parks, Recreation, and Facilities for the City of Whitewater, Kevin Boehm, at the upcoming January meeting. Kevin will be providing an update on the status of the Aquatic Center.
Kevin Boehm serves as the Director of Parks, Recreation, and Facilities for the City of Whitewater, Wisconsin. A Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI), Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), and Certified Pool Operator (CPO), Kevin has a distinguished career dedicated to enhancing public spaces and enriching communities.
With prior leadership roles as the Director of Parks for Waushara County, the City of Two Rivers, Wisconsin, and the City of Enid, Oklahoma, Kevin has championed facility improvements, including ADA compliance projects and park enhancements. He is also known for creating engaging community events, such as the annual Christmas at Cravath light display at Cravath Lakefront Park, which has become a cherished tradition in Whitewater. Kevin’s passion for accessible, vibrant, and sustainable recreational spaces continues to drive his commitment to improving the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
“I saw Kevin’s presentation at the City Council meeting, and I thought it was very interesting,” said GWC President, Jeffery Knight. “I am looking forward to Kevin’s presentation to learn more about the plans for the Aquatic Center.”
For further details, please contact Jeffery Knight at 920.728.0662 or jpk@knightpublicaffairs.com.
The GWC’s upcoming monthly meeting is Thursday, January 9th at 7 a.m. at the Community Engagement Center: 1260 W Main St, Whitewater, WI 53190. The public is more than welcome to attend this meeting. If interested in attending, you must RSVP. To reserve your spot, contact Jeff Knight at jpk@knightpublicaffairs.com or 920.728.0662 by Wednesday, January 8th.
About the GWC
The GWC is an action-oriented group committed to collaborating with citizens, elected officials, and policymakers to identify, craft, and implement a pro-business agenda. The agenda advances the economic, education, and social policies required to energize and secure the Whitewater area’s economic future, as well as protect Whitewater’s quality of life.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has recognized students named to the Dean’s List for the fall semester of the 2024-2025 academic year.
Students who achieve at a high level academically are recognized by the dean at the close of each semester. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must complete a minimum of 12 graded degree credits in that semester. Each university school or college sets its own GPA requirements for students to be eligible to receive the distinction. Most call the honor “dean’s list”, but some grant the “Dean’s Honor List” and “Dean’s High Honor List.”
NAME, COLLEGE, AWARD
Whitewater, WI
Crystal Chan, Col of Agricultural & Life Sci, Dean’s List
Jonathan Chan, College of Engineering, Dean’s Honor List
Arno Crowley, Col of Agricultural & Life Sci, Dean’s List
Colin Dugan, Col of Agricultural & Life Sci, Dean’s List
Lizbeth Gallegos, Col of Agricultural & Life Sci, Dean’s List
Reid Gunnink, School of Business, Dean’s List
CC Liang, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
Emmanuel Mbifi, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
Leah Newmann, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
Anna Riemer, School of Pharmacy, High Honor Roll
Kendal Schreiber, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
Kaden Tourdot, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
Jonathan Zheng, School of Pharmacy, Honor Roll
| Gov. Evers Order Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Former Wisconsin State Sen. Cullen |
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #251 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Sat., Jan. 4, 2025, in honor of former Wisconsin State Sen. Tim Cullen, who passed away on Mon., Dec. 23, 2024, at the age of 80. “Former Sen. Cullen was a dedicated public servant who devoted much of his life to good governance and improving the state that raised him,” said Gov. Evers in a statement last week. “Sen. Cullen always fought for working families, gave back to and supported kids in the Janesville area, and advocated fiercely for nonpartisan redistricting and access to the ballot box during both his time in the Wisconsin State Senate and beyond it. He spent much of his life working to end partisan gerrymandering and fighting for Wisconsin to have fair maps at long last. There is no doubt our state is better off because of Sen. Cullen and his service. Kathy and I extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and all those who knew him.” Born in Janesville, former Sen. Cullen graduated from Janesville High School in 1962 and went on to continue his education at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Former Sen. Cullen then served in the United States Army Reserve and briefly taught high school before being elected to serve on the Janesville City Council in 1970. Former Sen. Cullen later served four years as district director for U.S. Rep. Les Aspin (D-Wisconsin) before being elected to the Wisconsin State Senate in 1974, where he served the 15th Senate District until 1987, with five of those years serving as majority leader. In 1987, former Gov. Tommy Thompson appointed former Sen. Cullen to serve as secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services, and in 1988, he transitioned to the private sector, where he championed a career as vice president of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wisconsin for two decades. After retiring from his position at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wisconsin in 2007, he was elected to the School District of Janesville Board of Education, and in 2010, he ran for and was elected to his former Senate seat, serving until his retirement in 2015. After his time in the Legislature, former Sen. Cullen advocated for causes he believed in, such as ending partisan gerrymandering, fighting for equal opportunities for kids, and more. Former Sen. Cullen also served on the board of Common Cause of Wisconsin for over two decades, serving as chair from 2018 until he stepped down in 2022. Services for former State Sen. Cullen will be held on Sat., Jan. 4, 2025, in Janesville. Executive Order #251 will be in effect from sunrise to sunset on Sat., Jan. 4, 2025, and is available here. The flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin will concurrently be flown at half-staff pursuant to Executive Order #249 and should remain so until sunset on Tues., Jan. 28, 2025. |
MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #252 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Mon., Jan. 6, 2025, in honor of former Wisconsin State Sen. George Petak, who passed away on Tues., Dec. 24, 2024, at the age of 75.
“Kathy and I join the people of Wisconsin in mourning the loss of Sen. Petak today,” said Gov. Evers in a statement last week. “Sen. Petak was a man of faith, courage, and principle. He truly had a servant’s heart, always leading with empathy and integrity to give back and do more for others. Kathy and I join the people of Wisconsin in mourning the loss of Sen. Petak and offer our sincerest sympathies to his wife, kids, loved ones, and the many whose lives he touched.”
Former Sen. Petak was born in Warren, Ohio, in 1949 and received his bachelor’s degree in political science from Kent State University in 1972. Former Sen. Petak was elected to the Racine Unified School District Board of Education in 1983 and served in various positions, including as treasurer, vice president, and president until 1990, when he was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate and represented the 21st Senate District. In 1994, former Sen. Petak won his reelection to the Senate and served until 1996. Sen. Petak famously cast the deciding vote to provide funding to build Miller Park—the home of the Milwaukee Brewers—now known as American Family Field. Following his time in the Senate, former Sen. Petak was appointed as deputy executive director of the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) by former Gov. Tommy Thompson and served there until 1998. From 2013 to 2016, former Sen. Petak served as an administrator at the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institution’s Division of Corporate and Consumer Services. Then, in 2016, former Sen. Petak returned to WHEDA and served as a senior business and community engagement officer until his retirement in 2020. In addition to his life of public service, former Sen. Petak also served as a volunteer, government consultant, and lobbyist.
Services for former State Sen. Petak will be held on Mon, Jan. 6, 2025, in Colorado.
Martin Alejandro Gomez, 32, of Whitewater, has been charged with felony intimidation of a victim, domestic abuse assessments; substantial battery, domestic abuse assessments; and disorderly conduct, domestic abuse assessments. CCAP not confirmed yet.
Another resident, Stephanie Anguiano, 606 E. North Street (05/10/1991), will have charges referred to the Walworth County District Attorney’s Office of:
- Possession of a Firearm by a Felon/Party To A Crime – 941.29(1m)/939.05
- Maintaining a Drug Trafficking Place/Party To A Crime – 961.42(1)/939.05
- RYNES, DANIEL, 75, of 8042 N. Lima Center Road, Whitewater, 2 counts physical abuse of child, Dec. 13, 8042 N. Lima Center Road, Town of Lima.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. It is officially winter and whether we have snow and winter weather or not, the historical society will give you several weeks of winter views. This year, we are concentrating on downtown Whitewater.
Our first view was taken from the top of a building on the south side of Center Street. Rooftop views were popular in the late nineteenth century when this was probably taken. The view in the foreground of the back of building on Main Street has changed a bit and two notable buildings in the upper portion of the photo are gone. To the mid-right of the photo is the Old Stone Mill and a bit further up the photo to the left is the old Brewery.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(3732PC, Whitewater Historical Society)
Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure? Seniors in the Park, based at the Starin Park Community Building in Whitewater, WI, presents various extended travel opportunities for 2025 and 2026. Whether you dream of exploring iconic landmarks, breathtaking natural wonders, or experiencing unique cultural traditions, there’s a trip for you!
Upcoming Travel Adventures
Cape Cod & The Islands
📅 September 6–12, 2025
Discover the charm of Cape Cod with 5 nights in this scenic destination. Enjoy a Martha’s Vineyard tour, visit Nantucket Island, see Plymouth Rock, savor a New England lobster dinner, and much more!
- Tour Rates: $3,475 per person (double); $4,350 (single)
Canadian Rockies Via Rail
📅 September 10–17, 2025
Board VIA Rail’s iconic “The Canadian” and travel through the stunning Canadian Rockies. Spend a night aboard the train in sleeper plus class and explore three breathtaking Canadian National Parks.
- Tour Rates: $5,625 per person (double); $6,925 (single)
Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights
📅 October 15–21, 2025
Begin your journey in Reykjavik with a walking tour, then marvel at the Northern Lights on an evening cruise. Explore Iceland’s stunning national parks, waterfalls, and the famous Blue Lagoon.
- Tour Rates: $4,599 per person (double); $4,549 (single)
Music Cities Christmas
📅 December 2–7, 2025
Celebrate the holidays with visits to Branson, Memphis, and Nashville. Highlights include city tours, Graceland, the Grand Ole Opry, and a festive holiday dinner and show.
- Tour Rates: $3,399 per person (double); $4,124 (single)
Rose Parade New Year’s
📅 December 30, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Ring in the New Year in style with 5 nights at the Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa. Enjoy reserved seating at the Rose Parade, a float tour, and visits to Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
- Tour Rates: $3,999 per person (double); $4,799 (single)
New Zealand and Australia – Norwegian Cruise Line
📅 January 26 – February 9, 2026
Experience 5 ports in New Zealand and 4 ports in Australia, including Melbourne, Wellington, and Burnie (Tasmania). Enjoy stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural experiences.
- Tour Rates: Vary based on cabin selection
Classic Greece
📅 February 8–18, 2026
Step back in time with a journey through Greece, starting in Athens. Highlights include a tour of the Acropolis, Greek dance and cooking classes, farm visits, and a trip to Olympia, the sanctuary of Zeus.
- Tour Rates: $3,799 per person (double); $4,499 (single); $3,749 per person (triple)
How to Learn More
To inquire about these exciting travel opportunities or to book your spot, visit Seniors in the Park at the Starin Park Community Building, 504 W. Starin Rd, Whitewater, WI 53190.
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Don’t miss your chance to explore the world with us! Reach out today for more information and let your next great adventure begin.
Submitted by Downtown Whitewater, Inc
Original information sourced from Seniors in the Park January Newsletter
Image by Stefan Schweihofer from Pixabay
Families are invited to a new Community Helpers story time series that will be presented with the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library and members of the local community. This monthly story time will explore a different career each session and will offer children opportunities to play and learn with hands-on activities. The first session will be teacher-themed and will be held on Wednesday, January 8 at 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Note that due to library construction, story time will be held at the Cravath Lakefront Community Center located at 341 S. Fremont Street. Children will enjoy a book read by a local teacher, songs, and early learning stations just right for preschool learning. Everyone is welcome to attend this fun, free story time, which is best for ages 2-6 but all ages are welcome.
Registration is not required.
The Community Helpers story time series will continue every 2nd Wednesday of the month at the same time and location through May. February’s story time will feature a police officer.
Contact Sarah French with questions or accommodation requests at sfrench@whitewater-wi.gov or 262-458-2782. For a full listing of library events, visit whitewaterlibrary.org.
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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