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Today is Monday, May 11, 2026
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The Whippet Boys Swim Team closed out an incredible season at the WIAA State Meet on Friday, February 20th with outstanding performances and fast swims across the board!
State Highlights:
• Cruz Aranda placed 10th in the 200 Freestyle with a time of 1:48.99 — now 2nd all-time on the Whippet Top 10 List.
• Langdon Coburn finished 15th in the 200 IM with a strong time drop to 2:04.45 — now 4th all-time on the Whippet Top 10 List.
• Mateo Bazeley swam a quick 22.58 in the 50 Freestyle to place 13th.
• 
Langdon Coburn earned a 5th place finish in the 100 Butterfly with a time of 52.47 — now 3rd all-time in school history.
• Cruz Aranda added a 9th place finish in the 100 Freestyle with a fast 48.93 — now 4th all-time on the Whippet Top 10 List.
NEW SCHOOL RECORD!
The 200 Freestyle Relay team of Langdon Coburn, Caleb Kluck, Cruz Aranda, and Mateo Bazeley broke the school record with an incredible time of 1:30.61, finishing 8th overall!
The 400 Freestyle Relay team of Langdon Coburn, Mateo Bazeley, Wyatt Esch, and Cruz Aranda capped off the meet with a 12th place finish in 3:25.28.
We are extremely proud of the way these athletes represented Whitewater on the biggest stage. Thank you to all of our fans for the tremendous support throughout the season!
A special thank you to our seniors for your dedication, leadership, and commitment to the program — you will be greatly missed. 
Article and Photos Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
ReynoldsSM07@uww.edu
Nate Parrish, President and CEO of First Citizens State Bank, is pleased to announce the promotions of Shelly Bucholtz and Kelsey Reilly to Assistant Vice President. Both Bucholtz and Reilly are based at the bank’s Whitewater Main Office, located at 207 W Main Street, Whitewater, Wisconsin.
Bucholtz has been with First Citizens State Bank for nearly 33 years and oversees all aspects of Loan Processing and Servicing. During her tenure, she has advanced through several key roles within Loan Operations, most recently serving as Loan Operations Officer. Bucholtz holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from UW-Whitewater and has completed extensive professional training through the Wisconsin Bankers Association. She currently sits on the Board of Directors for FIPCO.
Reilly joined First Citizens State Bank in 2018 and has steadily advanced into leadership roles. She currently serves as the Bank’s Compliance Officer and Assistant Security Officer, ensuring strong internal controls and regulatory compliance. Reilly earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration from UW-Whitewater and is a Whitewater High School graduate. She serves as the Treasurer for the Whitewater Kiwanis Breakfast Club and is a member of the Whitewater Landmarks Commission.
Commenting on the promotions, Parrish said, “Shelly and Kelsey each bring exceptional knowledge, integrity, and dedication to their roles. Their leadership, attention to detail, and commitment to our customers and our bank make them highly deserving of this advancement. We are proud to recognize their contributions and look forward to the continued impact they will have on our organization.”
First Citizens State Bank, locally owned and operated since 1863, is committed to serving the communities in which we live, work, and do business. The bank takes pride in building lasting partnerships with organizations, businesses, and individuals throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. First Citizens State Bank has Full-service offices in Whitewater, East Troy and Palmyra. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
February was Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, and we wrapped it up with a busy week in the Tech Ed classes.
First, in honor of National Discover Engineering Week, students in Exploratory Tech went on a tour of Doosan Bobcat in Johnson Creek on Wednesday. Students were able to see how they engineer and manufacture the mowers and other machines in the Doosan Bobcat line. They also had the chance to try out their own engineering skills by designing and building a boat. One of our teams even took 2nd place!
On Thursday, students in Introduction to Engineering traveled to UW–Madison to learn more about different engineering disciplines, with a focus on Nuclear Engineering. They heard from a prestigious career panel, interacted with local businesses, and toured engineering labs on campus. Students were able to see just how wide the world of engineering really is and explore what the schooling looks like to get into an engineering program.
Finally, students from first semester Exploratory Tech celebrated completing and receiving their OSHA 10 certifications. This certification will help them as they work toward Youth Apprenticeships and other technical careers. Students were excited to receive their cards today!
Thank you to Doosan Bobcat and UW–Madison for hosting our students and giving them a glimpse into their futures!
Article and Photos Submitted by Nolan Otremba
Whitewater High School Technology and Engineering Teacher
otrno01@wwusd.org
For the first time since 1997, all of the WIAC men’s basketball teams are competing in the NCAA Regional Championship. UW-La Crosse won the automatic bid by beating UW-W in the championship game; the others were selected at-large. UW-W (20-7, WIAC 10-4) will play Loras College (IA) (20-8) in the first round on Friday, March 6 @ 5:05 p.m. at Washington University in St. Louis. Further information will be posted when available.
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater will host a NCAA women’s basketball regional for the sixth consecutive championship this weekend. The Warhawks are set to host the four-team regional with games scheduled for Friday and Saturday.
UW-Whitewater (19-8) will take on Transylvania (24-4) at 7:15 PM Friday evening in Kachel Gym. The Warhawks, an at large selection, are making their 10th straight and 17th overall appearance in the NCAA Championship under Head Coach Keri Carollo. UWW is ranked 10th in the final NPI (NCAA Power Index) list. The Warhawks are 39-23 in the program’s 23 total postseason appearances.
Transy punched their berth into the 2026 championship with their eighth consecutive Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference Tournament title. The Pioneers, ranked 44th in the NPI, are making their seventh straight appearance in the postseason.
The first game of the regional will feature the University of Chicago and Gustavus Adolphus College at 4:45 PM Friday evening. The Maroons (17-7) claimed an at-large bid into championship to make the program’s 11th trip to NCAA action. Back in the postseason for the first time since 2023, Chicago comes into the regional ranked 21st according to NPI.
Gustavus Adolphus (18-8) also received an at-large bid into the postseason. The Gusties are making their fifth consecutive and 12th overall appearance in the NCAA tournament. GAC is ranked 36th in the NPI.
The winners of Friday’s contests advance to the regional final slated for 7:15 PM Saturday in Kachel Gym. Stay tuned for more information on the Whitewater Regional including tickets, media coverage and more.
Whitewater Common Council Candidate Forum
Saturday, March 7, 1:30PM – 3:00PM
Whitewater City Hall Council Chambers, 312 W Whitewater Street
There are three open seats on the Council with two candidates running for each seat. The candidates are: Aldermanic District 2 (Wards 9 & 10) Gavin Kelleher and Sean Liebherr; Aldermanic District 4 (Wards 6, 7 & 8) Brian Schanen (incumbent) and Chuck Mills; and, Member at Large Aubrey Thompson and Orin Smith. All candidates have agreed to attend the forum.
The League of Women Voters Whitewater Area sponsors candidate forums for the benefit of YOU, the voter. At the forum, you will be asked to write your questions on cards distributed by the League. Questions are reviewed by question checkers, who sort them by topic and check for redundancy, before forwarding them to the moderator. We do not accept questions targeted to specific candidates. Questions prepared by the League board will be used only if there are not enough questions provided by residents in attendance at the forum. Bring your family, friends and neighbors! Be an active participant in our democracy!
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!
The Jefferson County Beef Producers (JCBP) are proud to announce their 1st Annual Steak Dinner, to be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Jefferson County Fair Park, located at 503 N. Jackson Ave., Jefferson, Wisconsin.
This community event is designed to bring consumers and producers together while celebrating the importance of the local beef industry. Guests will enjoy a hearty dinner featuring freshly grilled ribeye steaks, along with hotdogs, corn, baked potatoes, dinner rolls, desserts, and beverages including soda and beer. The evening will also include raffles and silent auctions, offering attendees additional opportunities to support local agriculture.
All proceeds from the event will benefit the Jefferson County Beef Producers and help fund educational opportunities for both current and future beef producers. These efforts aim to strengthen the beef industry in Jefferson County and ensure its success for generations to come.
“The Jefferson County Beef Producers are dedicated to promoting and preserving the local beef industry by bridging the gap between producers and consumers,” said representatives of the organization. “This steak dinner is a great way for the community to enjoy a delicious beef dinner and socialize while supporting agriculture.”
Community members, families, and supporters of local agriculture are encouraged to attend.
For sponsorship opportunities, donations, or additional information, please contact the Jefferson County Beef Producers on Facebook or jeffersoncountybeefproducers@
Obituaries
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
Carol Ann Seebruch, 88 of Whitewater passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, April 3, 2026. Carol was born July 12, 1937 in Chicago IL to William and Ann Borovec. She married Marvin Seebruch on June 9, 1984. Carol and Marvin enjoyed traveling the United States making it to 48 of the 50 states. She also enjoyed her time with the Red Hat Ladies. She loved taking pictures of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Carol is survived by her three children; Bill Anderson of Fort Atkinson, WI, Terri Laban of Whitewater, WI, and Donna (Mike) Jones of Crivitz, WI. She … Read more
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