Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Thursday, May 14, 2026
News & Events
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.
Growing and Caring for Plants in Wisconsin: Foundations in Gardening is an online, complete-at-your-own-pace introductory course offered by the UW-Madison Division of Extension Horticulture Program. This course is designed for anyone who wants to improve their gardening skills, regardless of experience level. Participants learn key concepts for selecting, growing, and maintaining plants—from trees to houseplants to vegetables and everything in between! The course runs September 8–December 7, 2024.
Registration opens July 15, Early Bird pricing runs July 15-August 12, and registration closes August 29. Foundations in Gardening is offered annually each fall. It is suitable for gardeners of all skill levels, and it also serves as an approved learning opportunity for those interested in joining the Master Gardener Program.
At the end of Growing and Caring for Plants in Wisconsin: Foundations in Gardening, participants will be able to:
- Link gardening practices and biology to preventing plant problems.
- Explain how to select, grow, and maintain the health of different kinds of plants.
- Identify strategies to manage plant problems.
- Explain what Integrated Pest Management is and how it benefits you and the environment.
This course includes 14 modules with videos featuring Extension specialists, virtual activities, readings, and additional resources. The course also incorporates live webinars with Extension specialists who present on their areas of expertise and answer questions from participants.
Participants can dig deeper into important horticulture concepts by registering for additional online lab sessions led by Extension educators. In these labs, learners apply knowledge from the online modules to real-life gardening situations. Labs are held via Zoom and are recorded for later viewing. The online labs are available for purchase for an additional fee.
If you are interested in becoming a Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener, this course is considered an approved learning opportunity from the Wisconsin Extension Horticulture Program. For more information on how to become a Master Gardener, visit mastergardener.extension.wisc.edu/join.
Early bird registration is open from July 15-Aug. 12, 2024. Register at the early bird rate of $299, which includes an electronic version of course manual (PDF). Hard copies of the manual can be purchased at time of registration. Need-based scholarships are available during early bird registration, for those who are eligible for financial assistance. Find more information about this course at go.wisc.edu/ExtFoundationsInGardening.
Questions? Contact the course moderator, Amy Freidig at gardening.class@extension.wisc.edu
The UW-Madison Extension Horticulture Program provides research-based horticulture information to Wisconsin gardeners so they can make informed decisions that keep their plants healthy while protecting the environment.
Jeanine and Rick Fassl shared these beautiful images of their flowers on full display, blooming during some of the hottest, rainiest parts of our summer weather.
Thursday, July 18
11:30am – 12:45pm – Rain or Shine
Flat Iron Park – 402 W Main Street – Whitewater
Amanecer Y Más (The Marco Wence Trio) will play this Thursday, July 18, from 11:30am to 12:45pm, for the Whitewater Arts Alliance’s Savory Sounds Summer Concerts. Amanecer Y Más is a well-known musical group here in Whitewater, playing Hispanic music that will warm your heart and move your feet to tapping. Accompanied by acoustic guitars, they sing many folk and emotionally-filled ballads, and are a favorite of Savory Sounds Concerts.
And what food goes better with Hispanic music than food prepared by Tienda Y Taqueria? Their business located in downtown Whitewater, Tienda Y Taqueria is a very popular Hispanic grocery and restaurant, offering delectable food choices.
This Week’s Sponsor: Premier Bank – www.bankwithpremier.com
Location: Outside the Cultural Arts Center (CAC) / Flat Iron Park (next to the Birge Fountain), 402 W Main St, Whitewater.
Rain or Shine: Normally held outdoors on the lawn. In the event of inclement weather, the concerts are moved inside the CAC and seating is provided.
Seating: If the concert is held outside, please consider bringing a lawn chair or blanket. A few picnic tables and benches around the Birge Fountain are also available.
Food & Refreshments: Food and other refreshments will be available from the food vendor or bring your own lunch. This week’s vendor is Tienda Y Taqueria. Located in downtown Whitewater, they are a very popular Hispanic grocery and restaurant, offering delectable Hispanic food choices.
Parking: CAC lot and city street parking is available with additional parking available at First English Lutheran Church.
There are only 9 days left to sign up for Whitewater Club Baseball! Come be a part of a great program and be exposed to some top competition. Please follow the link to sign up:
https://forms.gle/y72DLYPSqZVS896v5
Come out on July 24th-25th, and try out for the Whitewater Baseball Club. No experience is needed. The grade for tryouts is based on what grade you are going into this upcoming school year.
Tryout Dates:
Wednesday July 24th: 2nd-4th Grade/ 5pm-7pm
Thursday July 25th: 5th-8th Grade/ 5pm-7pm
Tuesday July 30th: make up date for all ages/ 5pm-6pm
Location: Whitewater High School Baseball & Softball Field
This club is created to help expose youth baseball players to next level competition. The number of teams will be determined by number of players that tryout and their ages. In order to have an opportunity to earn a roster spot on one of these teams you must tryout. If you are unable to make these dates but would like to tryout, please contact coach Hookstead. Only 14 players are allowed per team maximum. If your son makes one of the teams, there is a $350 charge. With this you will receive a jersey, pants, hat, and training that would start in January.
Please contact Coach Michael Hookstead with any questions:
mhookstead@wwusd.org
(262)893-3580
CORRECTION: A recent news release highlighting the new Memory Matters program from the Walworth County ADRC listed an incorrect address for Sugar Creek Lutheran Church, which hosts the program meetings. The correct address is N5690 Cobblestone Rd., Elkhorn.
For individuals living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or early-stage dementia, one of the best ways to delay progression is through cognitive stimulation and socialization. Memory Matters is an adult day program for individuals with early memory loss. The program provides activities that stimulate cognition while enhancing physical, emotional, and social well-being and community connection.
“We are so happy to partner with Sugar Creek Lutheran Church,” says Jake Sawyers, Walworth County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) Dementia Care Specialist. “Here in Walworth County, there are only four social respite programs available to our more than 2,000 residents living with some form of dementia. This is a huge need, and caregivers welcome the idea of having reliable, weekly programming for their loved one living with early-stage dementia or MCI.”
Memory Matters is held Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Sugar Creek Lutheran Church, N5690 Cobblestone Rd., Elkhorn. The respite program costs $50 per session. Registration is required. Contact Jake Sawyers, Dementia Care Specialist, at (262) 741-3273.
About the ADRC of Walworth County: The ADRC provides information and assistance to older and disabled adults, their friends, family, caregivers, and the public. We assist by evaluating your current needs and providing options available to meet your situation. Learn more at www.co.walworth.wi.us/376/Aging-Disability-Resource-Center or call (262) 741-3200.
Contact: Jake Sawyers
Dementia Care Specialist
262-741-3273
jsawyers@co.walworth.wi.us
Library Board of Trustees – Monday, July 15, 2024 @ 6:30 pm
Agenda includes discussion and possible action to approve a contractor and base bid for the library expansion and
renovation project.
Webinar link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81557506550?pwd=HC6FKPbk9NQNajKqg6VWVXdf1x4C0Z.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US (Chicago) (Houston)
Webinar ID: 815 5750 6550
Passcode: g0NassY7
Alcohol Licensing Committee Meeting – Tuesday, July 16, 2024 @ 5:30 pm
Agenda includes discussion and possible action regarding the DLK Hawk Bowl Class “B” alcohol license agreement with the City of Whitewater.
Webinar link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86273818205?pwd=NuAaj2EUUMA1tQlgBAPzsa9OxhRB28.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US (Chicago) (Houston)
Webinar ID: 862 7381 8205
Passcode: 559859
Common Council Meeting – Tuesday, July 16, 2024 @ 6:30 pm
Agenda includes Whitewater Middle School pickup and dropoff, sale of waterworks and sewer system revenue bonds, first reading of a mobile foods establishment ordinance, an easement with WE Energies for underground distribution at Southwest Water Tower site, City Manager review of goals, and strategic plan modifcations. Closed session agenda items include Park Crest Development Agreement and Developers Agreement for Royal Hounds Project located on Bluff Road.
Webinar link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81241037644?pwd=b5ZNKzbvXGurJoCnj4zI3tHaCbmNlQ.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US (Chicago)
Webinar ID: 812 4103 7644
Passcode: 215759
Parks & Recreation Board Meeting – Wednesday, July 17 @ 5:30 pm
Agenda includes WAFC Report and discussion of repairs and updates, dog park improvements, discussion on youth athletics and Treyton’s Field, and a discussion on lakes.
Webinar link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85667136099?pwd=hdgcZ71e7lK8PbYgXV3vCbxQp6JuqL.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US (Chicago)
Webinar ID: 856 6713 6099
Passcode: 846880
Community Development Authority Board of Directors Meeting – Thursday, July 18 @ 5:30 pm
Agenda includes Memorandum of Understanding for the Innovation Center, conflict of interest policy, 108 E Main Street, potential for collection of funds with regard to Meeper LLC Loans, draft of Technology Park convenants, Food Truck Fest, and WindUp feedback and winners.
Webinar link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82992318798?pwd=bPNnJ4h_wJvNjb5pZAp5DegAl4qljw.kY8aH0TrI3rrZlTl
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US (Chicago) (Houston)
Webinar ID: 829 9231 8798
Passcode: 822499
School District Meetings
Policy Review Committee – Monday, July 15 @ 9:00 am
WUSD Central Office Building
Agenda includes policies on superintendent evaluation, graduation requirements, and job descriptions.
Here is an update from the National Weather Service regarding both thunderstorms tonight and high heat values for Sunday into Monday.
Bottom Line Up Front
- A line or cluster of storms is expected to track from eastern MN to southern WI tonight. The time of arrival of these storms into south central WI should be between Midnight to 5 am early Sunday. A few showers or storms may linger after 5 am.
- A few strong thunderstorms should precede this main line this evening.
- Strong to severe storms are likely, with damaging winds the main threat
- Very heavy rainfall and dangerous lightning
- See attached graphics for more information
Heat and Thunderstorm Outlook
- Heat Advisory in effect starting 2 pm on Sunday.
- It will be hot and humid Sunday and Monday. Heat indices approaching both 100 degrees Sunday and Monday.
- Scattered Thunderstorms tonight and again late Sunday, higher chance Monday afternoon and night along an approaching front.
- Potential for severe storms Sunday and Monday. Currently, it looks like Monday afternoon and evening would be the most likely time period.
What has changed?
The addition of the Heat Advisory for parts of southern Wisconsin on Sunday.
Increasing confidence in a few rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms tonight, then again later Sunday into Monday.
The community is invited to a free, all-ages event to celebrate the end of the library’s Summer Reading Program. Join us for a bubble party outside of the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library on Thursday, July 18 at 2:00 p.m. Participants will enjoy music, popsicles, and bubbles!
The library is located at 431 W. Center St. in Whitewater. Contact the library at 262-473-0530 with questions.
Sarah French
sfrench@whitewater-wi.gov
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
Other Recent Posts
Click on the title to view the post. To open the post in a new tab, press Ctrl (Cmd on a Mac) while clicking on the title.
