Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Monday, October 12, 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.
Mark Dorn writes, “She startled me at 6:51 A.M. I did not spill my coffee.”
Our thanks to Mark Dorn for sharing these “startling” photos!
— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share. Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!
Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Clog Pipes
NOTICE: This is a reminder that fats, oils, and grease (FOG) items should never be put down the sink. FOG are natural by-products of the cooking and food prep process. Common sources include food scraps, meat fats, cooking oils, lard, baked goods, salad dressings, sauces, marinades, dairy products, shortening, butter, and margarine.
In a warm, liquid state, FOG can appear harmless since it flows easily down the drain. However, shortly after it enters the drain, it can quickly cool and turn into a solid that will cause problems in the pipes in your home and in the sanitary sewer system.
Over time, FOG will accumulate along the walls of the sewer pipes. This will restrict the flow of wastewater and can cause sewer backups not only into your property, but throughout your neighborhood.
FOG also contributes to operational issues for our Water Utility such as obstructing flow in the sewers, causing foul odors, interfering with equipment and treatment processes at the Wastewater Utility, along with potentially polluting our lakes and streams.
Please do yourself and the Public Works Departments a favor today by not flushing fats, oils and grease down the sink. The presence of FOG in the sewer system affects everyone in our community!
Brad Marquardt
Director of Public Works
262-473-0139
bmarquardt@whitewater-wi.gov
For other requests, visit https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/RequestTracker.aspx.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. The second summertime image from the Scholl collection of glass plate negatives from around 1900 is this view of a young man and his bicycle. The collection includes many images of bicycles, a popular new type of transportation around 1900. Not everyone had a horse and/or buggy and most did not have an automobile. In an era when people had to walk everywhere, bicycles gave riders a way to be more mobile.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(3664GP, Whitewater Historical Society)
Artist Tom Jewell Donates Three Paintings for Raffle Benefiting Whitewater Arts Alliance
Tom Jewell, August exhibiting artist at the Cultural Arts Center in Whitewater, has generously donated three of his paintings [shown above] to be raffled off in support of the Whitewater Arts Alliance (WAA). This special raffle aims to raise funds for the Alliance and offers art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a piece by Jewell while contributing to a worthy cause.
The raffle will take place throughout the duration of Jewell’s exhibition, with tickets priced at $5 each or $20 for five tickets. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase at the Cultural Arts Center during the entire run of the show, which culminates in a grand drawing on August 29, 2024.
The drawing for the raffle will be held at 3:00 p.m. on the final day of the exhibition. Ticket purchasers will have the choice of any of the three donated paintings, with the selection made from three bins corresponding to each artwork. Winners do not need to be present to claim their prize, making participation accessible to all.
All proceeds from the raffle will directly benefit the Whitewater Arts Alliance, supporting their mission to promote and sustain the arts in our community.
Expressions in Paint, Pastel and Pencil” featuring artist Tom Jewell at the Cultural Arts Center – 402 W. Main Street, Whitewater
Artist Talk & Reception: Thursday, August 8 from 5 -7 p.m.
Tom Jewell‘s artistic journey began during his childhood years in Arizona, where he developed a profound love for the outdoors, animals, and wildlife. At the age of 14, his family relocated to Wisconsin, where he continued to nurture his interests, filling several sketchbooks with landscape and animal pencil sketches.
Pursuing a career in graphic arts, Tom attended Layton College of Art/Marquette University, earning a degree in graphic design and print management. His career as a graphic designer, art director, and print operations manager has been marked by success, and he has always remained true to the influence of his professors at Layton, focusing on refining his fine art painting technique and style.
Throughout his career, Tom has showcased his paintings in numerous art galleries, exhibits, art fairs, and museums. He has held several solo exhibitions, received awards in juried competitions, and his paintings are part of private and corporate collections across Wisconsin and beyond.
Since retiring from his professional career in 2003, Tom has devoted himself to painting, with a focus on landscapes, wildlife, horses, animals, and commissioned human portraiture.
- Professional Organizations and Activities:
- Member of Oil Painters of America
- Member of Whitewater Arts Alliance
- Published wildlife book illustrator
- Published annual calendar illustrator
- Art exhibit judge
- Commission artist working in watercolor, oil, acrylic, colored pencil, and graphite
- Technical keynote artist speaker/presenter
- Instructor for adult art classes and workshops in drawing, watercolor, and acrylic mediums
Join us at the Whitewater Arts Alliance Gallery to experience the exquisite artistry of Tom Jewell and celebrate his contributions to the world of fine art.
Tom illustrated the book “Tig of the Marsh and Wetland”. Copies of this book will be available for purchase in the gallery during the exhibit.
The Tommy G. Thompson Center on Public Leadership is pleased to announce the selection of its ‘Bridging the Divide’ campus leaders for the 2024 fall semester. ‘Bridging the Divide’ brings students of different ideological backgrounds together to foster civil discourse and understanding across ideological and partisan divisions. The Thompson Center selected 20 students as campus leaders from over 60 applications from all 13 four-year campuses in the University of Wisconsin System. Campus leaders will conduct civil discourse discussion groups once a month on their campuses. Students were chosen not only on the strengths of their academics but also on their experience and passion for leading on civil discourse. They vary from sophomores to seniors and include a wide range of academic backgrounds.
Those who were selected to be student leaders on the UW-Whitewater campus are:
Blake Erwin
UW–Whitewater | International Relations
Gabriel Gotcher
UW–Whitewater | Political Science
Programs and services that promote the independence of older adults and adults with disabilities play a major role in the health of our community. The Walworth County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is developing a three-year plan on how best to provide services to help older adults remain healthy and independent. This plan will identify priorities and guide the ADRC staff on which programs and services best meet the needs and interests of those living in Walworth County.
The Walworth County ADRC is requesting public input. They would like to know what Walworth County residents think is important for individuals to be as independent as possible and have a good quality of life while they age. The ADRC is hosting a Town Hall Meeting on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 1 p.m. The public hearing will be held in the Walworth County room at the Health & Human Services Department located at 1910 County Road NN in Elkhorn.
A 2025-27 Walworth County Aging Plan draft will be available for public inspection from August 9 through August 22, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Walworth County, 1910 County Road NN, Elkhorn. It will also be available online at www.co.walworth.wi.us/376/Aging-Disability-Resource-Center.
Written comments regarding the draft Aging Plan will be accepted before the hearing. Comments should be directed to Anne Prince, Aging Services Supervisor, Aging and Disability Resource Center of Walworth County, P.O. Box 1005, Elkhorn, Wisconsin, 53121-1005.
Transportation to the hearing is available for persons aged 60 and over. Persons requiring transportation assistance must call VIP Services at (262) 723-4402, at least three business days in advance.
To request interpreter services (language or sign) contact Prince at (262) 741-3400, 1-800-365-1587, or e-mail aprince@co.walworth.wi.us three business days in advance.
# # #
About the Walworth County Aging and Disability Resource Center: The ADRC provides information and assistance to older and disabled adults, their friends, family, caregivers, and the public. We can assist by evaluating your current needs and providing options available to meet the needs of your situation. Learn more at www.co.walworth.wi.us/376/Aging-Disability-Resource-Center.
Where: N1019 Fremont Rd Whitewater, WI 53190
When:
Thu, Aug 8, 2024 @ 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fri, Aug 9, 2024 @ 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sat, Aug 10, 2024 @ 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sun, Aug 11, 2024 @ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Details: No more babies sale! Lots of different baby items (swings, rockers, sit me up, rock n’ play, high chairs, etc!) along with clothing newborn – 2T. Kids toys. Lots of women’s name brand clothing. Housewares. Telescope. Coat tree. 3-container laundry basket. Women’s shoes, kids shoes. & so much more!
Paul Jhona writes, “Not a bridge to cross if afraid of heights. Connects the Upper & Lower Peninsulas of Michigan!”
Our thanks to Paul Jhona for sharing these beautiful photos.
— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share. Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!
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
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.
