Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Tuesday, May 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.
During the week of December 18-20, WHS celebrated Winter Week. The week consisted of dress days, an all-school game of Rock, Paper, Scissors, and an assembly, followed by a donut breakfast.
Monday’s dress day was Wisconsin Day. Staff and Students dressed in Wisconsin gear (Badgers, Bucks, Brewers, Packers, Whippets, Flannels, and Cheeseheads).
On Tuesday, it was White Out Day, along with an all-school, all-day long, game of Rock, Paper, Scissors. Five $5 Sweet Spot gift cards were awarded to Emerson Ellenwood, Marijose Verduzco, Leah Newman, and Junior Soto for being the top four students to win and to Rapha Cortez for being the staff winner.
On Wednesday, staff and students wore their ugly sweaters and brought anything but a backpack to school. Students and staff also attended an assembly where Officer Michelle Martin was recognized for her years of service in the Whitewater Unified School District and Casey Lyon was recognized for breaking the record for the most points in a boys’ basketball game. Casey scored 47 points against East Troy, last week Friday; the previous record of 46 points was held for over 50 years by Hugh Gnatzig. The Winter Court was also announced at the assembly (see the names below). The Pom Squad performed, and a competitive game of Musical Chairs took place. The winner of that game was Richi Kalra. As the assembly started to wrap up, Emerson and Marijose played a final round of Rock, Paper, Scissors for the overall winner. Marijose won in best out of three games. To complete the assembly, staff and students participated in an ugly sweater contest. The winner was junior Andrew O’Toole.
To wrap up Wednesday morning, a donut breakfast was held for WHS, while a group of staff members and former students played instruments and provided music. Thank you to the Student Council and the Kitchen Crew for making the donut breakfast possible.
Happy Holidays, WHS!
Winter Court:
- Emilia Houwers represented Model United Nations.
- Meg Roselle represented Hope Squad.
- Savannah O’Neal represented the Pom Squad.
- Cruz Aranda represented the Boys’ Swim Team
- Representing Gymnastics was Gabriella Pena Perroni.
- Representing Boys’ Wrestling was Jesus Barajas.
- Representing Girls’ Wrestling was Lauren Buehler.
- Representing Boys’ Basketball was Emerson Ellenwood.
- Representing Girls’ Basketball was Aidyn Amundson.
- Chris Cortes represented the Computer Programming Team.
- Representing WHS Players was Brooke Mason.
- Calli Grosinske represented SADD.
- Representing Key Club was Emily Henderson.
Article Submitted by Amy Houwers
Whitewater High School Student Council Advisor
ahouwers@wwusd.org
Photos Courtesy of Tom Ganser
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by the Whitewater Public Library.
Looking for something to do with your family over winter break? The community is invited to a demonstration by Ferradermis Robotics Team at the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library on Wednesday, December 27. Drop in the library’s community room anytime between 9:30-11:30 a.m. to see the team operate their robot and answer questions.
Ferradermis, FIRST Robotics Competition Team #6574, is based out of Whitewater High School. The mission of Ferradermis is to create a sustainable extracurricular environment and provide mentorship for high school students to participate in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC).
This is a free, fun family event. The Irvin L Young Memorial Library is located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater.
Contact Sarah French with questions at sfrench@whitewater-wi.gov or 262-458-2782.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Fort HealthCare.
Over the past year, construction equipment has been very visible on the Fort HealthCare campus. Two major projects are now completed that will vastly improve parking options for patients, visitors, and Fort HealthCare staff members. The Ambulatory Services Parking Lot has been reconfigured, almost doubling parking spaces for patients and visitors. In addition, after almost 20 years of remote parking for employees, there is now enough space for all staff to park on the hospital campus. Both of these improvements are intended to enhance both the patient and staff experience at Fort HealthCare.
In addition to this project, Fort HealthCare has another major remodeling project slated to begin in 2024. This project will again aim to improve the patient and visitor experience at Fort HealthCare by consolidating several clinical services onto the main campus. “By placing many of our services together on the Fort HealthCare campus, patients will spend less time navigating across town,” states Dr. Michael Anderson, President and Chief Executive Officer. He adds, “Our goal is to optimize the patient experience. Unifying the location of multiple clinical services will help accomplish that.” In addition, this remodeling project will replace mechanicals in the older part of the building that have been operational since 1949.
“It is important for Fort HealthCare to be good stewards of our facility and to continue to update and improve the buildings over time. Our aim is to continue to be the trusted, community hospital serving Jefferson County. We have been here for over 80 years. Our commitment to this project reflects Fort HealthCare’s enduring dedication to the health and well-being needs of our patients and community well into the future,” concludes Dr. Anderson.
About Fort HealthCare
Fort HealthCare is committed to improving the health and well-being of our communities, with a vision to be the healthiest community in Wisconsin. As the leading healthcare provider in the region, it is our goal to reach as many members of the community as possible with health and wellness messages, providing tools and resources to help individuals improve their health and quality of life while collaborating with several partners to positively improve the population’s health overall on a long-term basis. Please visit FortHealthCare.com for more information.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by the Rock County Sheriff’s Office. The department has previously indicated to The Banner that Rock County residency is not required to enroll in their classes.
Sheriff Fell is pleased to announce that the Rock County Sheriff’s Office will offer our first 2024 ATV Safety Education Course on January 9, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., and January 20, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., at the Rock County Fairgrounds – Craig Center, 1301 Craig Ave, Janesville, WI 53545. Students will need to attend both sessions to graduate.
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, is required to complete an ATV Safety Education Course in order to legally operate an ATV or UTV in areas open to the public within the State of Wisconsin. It is recommended that participants are at least 12 years of age or turn 12 shortly after the class.
ATV Safety Education Course – Class #1
Session 1: January 9, from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. @ Rock Co. Fairgrounds – Craig Center
Session 2: January 20, from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. @ Rock Co. Fairgrounds – Craig Center
Registration is now open. Complete the online enrollment form to reserve a seat. https://www.co.rock.wi.us/departments/sheriff-s-office/recreational-patrol/atv-education
Class size is limited to thirty students. Upon submission of the registration form, the submitter will see an onscreen confirmation message with course information. The course fee of $10 per student will be collected at the first session. If the student is under 18 years old, a parent/guardian will need to attend the first session with the student. Students will receive course materials at the first session. Please direct any questions to Deputy Trevor Lund at trevor.lund@co.rock.wi.us
Tuesday night, December 19, the Whippet Boys’ Basketball Team hosted the conference-leading Jefferson Eagles in the first of two Rock Valley matchups this season. Leading 37-35 at halftime, everything was clicking for Whitewater early on. Marcos Sagrero had 18 points, and the team played with tenacity on defense – generating turnovers, getting out in the fast break, and putting Jefferson in a pickle by getting to the free-throw line early.
In the second half, however, the Eagles made adjustments and just enough plays down the stretch to overcome the two-point halftime deficit. The Whippets had opportunities at the rim and the free-throw line, but could not capitalize on the hot shooting in the first half of the game. Despite Sagrero’s career-high 23 points, Jefferson pulled away in the end to win 71-65 in a highly competitive contest and remains undefeated in the Rock Valley Conference. Whitewater falls to 2-6 overall.
Let’s get ’em next time Whippets!
Whitewater High School hosts Milwaukee Academy of Science on Thursday, December 21.
Article Submitted by Shane Cullian and Michael McCabe
Whitewater High School Boys’ Basketball Coaches
scullian@wwusd.org, mccmi01@wwusd.org
Photo Courtesy of Bob Mischka
By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
The Whitewater Area Regional Ministry (WARM) of the United Methodist Church presented the Christmas cantata, “A Journey to Joy,” a beautiful brand new work by Joseph M. Martin, on Sunday, December 10 at First United Methodist Church. Presentations took place at the 10 a.m. worship service and at a 4:00 p.m. concert. The 35-voice choir included singers from the community, including UW-Whitewater, as did the 17-piece orchestra.
Soloists for the presentation were Jen Crone, Nathan Roley, Barb Taylor and Kay Ebert. The choir was conducted by Christine Hayes and accompanied on piano by James Athas. The work is a joyful blend of traditional carols and contemporary selections all telling the Christmas story. Scripture and narration interjected throughout the cantata was delivered by The Rev. Dan Fahs and The Rev. Beth Staniforth-Seamster.
Christine Hayes said, “The cantata, “A Journey to Joy,” truly proved to be prophetic. Bringing together 50 singers and instrumentalists lifted our souls as we prepared this beautiful music. The musicians represented the Whitewater community, churches and university. As we rehearsed each week, the messages of peace, love, hope and joy rang out. Presenting this Christmas message to hundreds, either in person or watching virtually, culminated in a joyous and emotional experience for the audience and performers. We are deeply appreciative of Joe Mansfield, who gifted us with memorial funds, making these two performances possible. It will carry us all through the Holy Christmas season. May we all carry the joy of Christmas in our hearts.”
A video of the cantata may be viewed here. The cantata begins at 19:50 on the recording.
Editor’s note: The following press release was received from UW-Whitewater.
A total of 50 students from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater were hired before graduation.
The following University of Wisconsin-Whitewater students [who consider Whitewater to be their home] recently graduated and were hired before graduation:
Patrice Achu, who graduated with a DBA in business administration.
Brett Knowlton, who graduated with a BBA in finance.
Chloe Welak, who graduated with a BBA in supply chain management.
April Wright, who graduated with a A.A. in fine arts.
Conner Young, who graduated with a B.S. in legal studies.
The holidays can be tough for hospitalized patients and their loved ones – especially if they need blood. Please spare a moment this season to give the life-changing gift of blood and hope for these families. Donors will receive a $20 e-gift card* as thanks! This includes those who have already made an appointment.
OLD WHITEWATER ARMORY
Thursday, 12/21/23 (1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.)
146 W. NORTH ST.
WHITEWATER, WI 53190
*Donors will receive an email from Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin <noreply@tangocard.com> 4-7 business days after their donation with a link to redeem $20 at a vendor of their choice, including Amazon, Starbucks, Target, Walmart and 60 more. Donors must have a valid email address on file with us prior to their appointment, or update it at the time of their donation.
Please make an appointment at this link or by calling Lynn at 262-473-2997. If you are a new donor to Versiti, use the link and then click on “login” and follow the directions under “new donors.”
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.
