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Today is Monday, October 12, 2026
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Natureland Park will be closed to the public beginning Monday, July 29, 2024. The park will reopen on Friday, September 6, 2024. Natureland Park is located at W8338 Territorial Road in Whitewater.
During this time, Walworth County Public Works will replace the two parking lots, add concrete walkways at the log cabin, and install a concrete patio for a new ADA-accessible picnic table on the north side of the cabin.
Throughout the project, the park and parking lots will be closed to ensure public safety. The public is asked to drive with caution and be mindful of contractor vehicles and equipment staging by the park entrance on Territorial Road.
During the closure of Natureland Park, the County’s two remaining parks, Price Park Conservancy and White River County Park, will be open for use and scheduling of events. Learn more about our parks at https://www.co.walworth.wi.us/306/Parks
Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by Walworth County.
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers announced today his appointment of Theresa Beck to the Jefferson County Circuit Court – Branch 2. The appointment will fill the vacancy being created by Judge William F. Hue’s resignation. Beck will complete a term ending July 31, 2025. “Theresa Beck’s breadth of experience and her strong roots in the community will serve her well in this new role,” said Gov. Evers. “She will be a great judge for the people of Jefferson County.” Beck has been an assistant district attorney in the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office since 2010. In this role, she has prosecuted a broad caseload, ranging from traffic offenses to homicide. She also has gained extensive experience with juvenile matters, including juveniles in need of protection and services and termination of parental rights cases. Prior to her work in the district attorney’s office, she was an attorney at the Law Offices of Monogue & Witt from 2000 to 2008 and a partner at Beck & Kiewit Law Offices from 2009 to 2010. During her time in private practice, she focused on family and juvenile law while also gaining experience with probate, bankruptcy, and guardianship. “Theresa Beck is a wonderful addition to the Jefferson County Judiciary,” said Jefferson County Assistant District Attorney Brookellen Teuber. “Throughout her career, Theresa has demonstrated her commitment to the rule of law and will treat everyone in her courtroom with dignity and respect.” Beck lives in Jefferson and is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and Marquette University Law School. She has previously served as the president of the Jefferson County Bar Association, as a member of the Jefferson County Human Services Citizen Review Panel, and was a member of the former Jefferson County Juvenile Drug Court. “I am humbled and extremely honored to accept the appointment to the Jefferson County Circuit Court,” said Beck. “I am grateful to Gov. Evers for this opportunity to serve the citizens of Jefferson County and for all the support and encouragement I received from my family, friends, and members of our legal community. My commitment to exemplifying our community values remains steadfast while ensuring an impartial, fair, and efficient judiciary.” Editor’s note: The above press release was issued by the office of the governor on July 26. |
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
This image of four dapper gentlemen in downtown Whitewater has no identification, but we know it is from 1914. How? Behind the gentlemen you can see that the corner building has been demolished. In 1914, the old building on this site was replaced with the new Commercial Bank Building. Most of the buildings in downtown Whitewater existed by 1900, so dating early twentieth century images can be difficult. But if the Commercial Bank or the older building on the site is shown, we can tell if the photo predates or postdates 1914. In this case, we know it was 1914 because the construction was taking place. Note in the background the Walworth Hotel, now the Landmark Building. It was built in 1890.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(2210PC, Whitewater Historical Society)
Per Fox6now.com on July 23, 2024, “A Jefferson County jury on Monday, July 22 found Pedro Mayorquin Landero Jr., [age 23, now of Crystal Lake, IL], guilty of two charges in connection with an assault that happened on the UW-Whitewater campus in May 2021. Mayorquin Landero Jr. was found guilty of attempted robbery with use of force and battery. The jury found him not guilty of second-degree sexual assault.” Information regarding the testimony in the case may be found in the Fox6now.com article.
Per Wisconsin Circuit Court Access, Judge Bennett J. Brantmeier ordered the defendant’s bail to be revoked, and set a sentencing hearing for 8/2/24 at 9 a.m.
A previous article appeared on the Banner when the suspect was charged. It included the following:
“Per the UW-W Police Facebook page, it was reported that a daylight stranger sexual assault occurred on Saturday, May 22, 2021 at approximately 12:26 p.m. The alleged perpetrator was apparently depicted in surveillance video, and was described as a white male, possibly Hispanic with a tan complexion, in his late teens or early 20’s having an athletic build. The male traveled to and from the assault location on a dark colored soft tail mountain bike. During the assault the suspect stated he was from Virginia. Per Fox6, the alleged assault occurred in the area of UW-W’s parking lot #18. No information was provided regarding the victim or the nature of the assault.
Chief Matthew Kiederlen posted the following on the Facebook page at approximately 8:40 p.m. on May 24: “I want to thank the community and university members who provided information and leads. I am happy to report the alleged offender is currently in custody. I truly appreciate the hard work of the officers involved, the assistance of our City of Whitewater Police partners and the bravery of the individual who came forward. If you ever need assistance please don’t hesitate to contact us!”
According to an article dated July 22 on WeAreGreenBay.com, “A Wisconsin native is receiving quite the contract extension with the Denver Broncos after signing a four-year, $80,000,00 deal.
After signing the extension, Hartford’s Quinn Meinerz, who played for the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, will play on Denver’s offensive line through 2028.
A third-round pick in 2021, Meinerz was the 98th overall pick and made an immediate impact for the Broncos. He appeared in 15 games and started nine contests as a rookie before emerging as one of the league’s top guards in 2022…..
Known as a bruiser, Meinerz has gained a reputation as a powerful run blocker and helps his running backs fight for extra yards. In the passing game, according to Pro Football Focus, Meinerz allowed the fourth fewest pressures of any guard with at least 625 snaps in 2023……”
Editor’s note: The photo on the homepage is captioned: Quinn Meinerz is a member of the 2019 D3football.com Preseason All-America team. (Photo by Michael McLoone) Additional photos and information regarding Meinerz’s UW-W career may be found here.
The City of Whitewater is thrilled to announce the winners of the highly anticipated Whitewater Wind Up, a business plan competition designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in our community. After months of hard work and dedication, the winners were selected following the final presentations in May, with the Community Development Authority (CDA) meeting on July 18th to allocate funds to the standout entries.
First Place: Barista Cat Cafe
The grand prize of $71,153.92 was awarded to Barista Cat Cafe, an innovative concept that combines a cozy coffee shop with a cat adoption center, offering patrons a unique and heartwarming experience. Please note that to receive the full award, Barista Cat Cafe must seek two additional quotes for their planned renovation, ensuring responsible and efficient use of the funds.
Runner-Up: Stellar Vintage
Stellar Vintage, a dynamic business specializing in curated vintage clothing and accessories, was awarded $33,302.83. This recognition acknowledges the business’s potential to add value to our community through sustainable fashion and unique offerings.
The Whitewater Wind Up began in early 2024, attracting a diverse range of participants with creative business ideas. The competition aimed to support entrepreneurs in developing and refining their business plans, providing them with valuable feedback from industry experts and community leaders.
Economic Development Director Taylor Zeinert expressed enthusiasm for the winners, stating, “The Whitewater Wind Up has demonstrated the incredible talent and innovation present in our community. We are proud to support Barista Cat Cafe and Stellar Vintage as they embark on their exciting ventures. These businesses not only enhance our local economy but also contribute to the unique culture and vibrancy of Whitewater.”
The CDA’s decision to allocate funds to these promising businesses underscores the commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth within the community. The support provided through this competition will enable Barista Cat Cafe and Stellar Vintage to implement their business plans and make a positive impact on Whitewater.
The Whitewater High School Class of 1984 held their 40th reunion on July 20, 2024, at the Second Salem Brewing Company in Whitewater.
Classmates came from as far as San Jose, California, Tokyo, Japan, to New York City and all the places in between to chat and reminisce about their time at Whitewater High School. A total of 65 WHS graduates were able to attend the reunion.
The class would like to thank all of the faculty and staff, past and present, who created the memorable experiences they had for the four years at Whitewater High School.
Submitted by Gregory Stewart.
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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