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Today is Monday, May 11, 2026
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The Whitewater Area League of Women Voters will host a special public program, “The State of UWW, The State of the City of Whitewater, and The State of the Whitewater Unified School District,” on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Whitewater Public Library.
The League has invited Chancellor Dr. Corey A. King of the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, Superintendent, Samuel Karns of the Whitewater Unified School District, and Whitewater City Manager, John Weidl, to provide updates on their respective institutions.
Each speaker will have approximately 15 minutes to share insights on current initiatives, accomplishments, challenges, and future priorities affecting the Whitewater community.
Following each presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a question -and -answer session.
The event is free and open to the public. Community members are encouraged to attend
Whitewater Public Library Board of Trustees – Monday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Final review and approval of the Meeting and Study Room Policy and adjourn to closed session, not to reconvene, to discuss library director performance evaluation.
Whitewater Public Library, Meeting Room 2
431 West Center St., Whitewater, WI, 53190
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88007004489?pwd=icu51WXigR8fuXblk9q0WUGU8eoLq5.1
Meeting ID: 880 0700 4489
Passcode: vC89AN8y
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US (Chicago)
City of Whitewater Ethics Committee – Tuesday @ 4:00 p.m.
Agenda includes discussion and action regarding two recently received ethics complaints. Two closed sessions may be individually followed by open sessions.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West
Whitewater Str, Whitewater, WI, 53190 *In Person
and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/23059002706708?p=Crg2XYEg3nT8fIDw4d
Meeting ID: 230 590 027 067 08
Passcode: Es7Ht6ya
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,654848445# United States, New York City
Find a local number
Phone conference ID: 654 848 445#
City of Whitewater Common Council Meeting – Tuesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and Possible Action regarding request for direction regarding Congressionally
Directed Spending for Immigration Liaison program; Discussion and Possible Action regarding direction on traffic safety measures on Starin Road (UW-W campus segment).
Whitewater High School, LMC, 2nd Floor, 534 S
Elizabeth St, Whitewater, WI 53190
Agenda
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/23416707570629?p=xCZsiQKTBioRQlb6DW
Meeting ID: 234 167 075 706 29
Passcode: Wh9t3gw7
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,398510369# United States
Phone conference ID: 398 510 369#
City of Whitewater Parks & Recreation Board – Wednesday @ 5:30 pm
The agenda has not been posted as of 2/15/26.
City of Whitewater Community Development Authority Board of Directors – Thursday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda includes a closed session, to reconvene, to discuss six items including Review and discussion of Open Records Request for Closed session meeting minutes (October 2025)
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI 53190
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/21189804496547?p=RSpuSw3hjtQBAANctM
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,129564377# United States, New York City
Find a local number
Phone conference ID: 129 564 377#
Have you always wanted to help the Ukrainian crisis, but never knew what to do or how to go about doing it? This is your chance to make a difference. Watch local resident James Olm’s YouTube link to learn more and then be a supportive force for the good of Ukrainian refugees.
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Editor’s note: The video was recorded at Christmastime, but its placement on The Banner was delayed while we did our due diligence regarding the Hope Shelter in Przemysl, Poland. Rather than the donations site that James suggested, we found that there is a US partner of the shelter that has 501(c)(3) status. Hope and Action, Inc. may be reached at hopeandactions.org. Donations should be specified for Hope Shelter.
By the way, the following announcement regarding a new IRS deduction for charitable contributions may be of interest.
New $1,000 standard deduction charity break in 2026
Do you typically claim the standard deduction on your federal taxes? You’re in luck. Beginning in 2026, there’s a new deduction you could take.
The non-itemizer charitable deduction is available for all taxpayers claiming the standard deduction, worth up to $1,000 ($2,000 for joint filers).
Here are a few fast facts on this key tax break:
- Only cash contributions qualify (checks, credit card charges, online donations and payroll deductions).
- The donation must be made to a qualified 501(c)(3) public charity.
- You must follow the typical IRS rules for a charitable deduction, including obtaining a written acknowledgement if you donate $250 or more.
Unlike the itemized charitable deduction, any contributions exceeding the annual limit for the non-itemized deduction cannot be carried forward. You also can’t use the deduction in conjunction with a donor-advised fund (DAF) or private foundation, as you can for itemized charitable contributions.
Despite these limitations, some predict that 144 million Americans will be eligible to claim the standard deduction charitable tax break.
Source: Kiplinger
Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by Pete Linforth from Pixabay.
LWV Whitewater Area Program: We the People Town Hall
The League of Women Voters Whitewater Area is proud to co-sponsor The Town Hall Coalition of Rock County’s “We the People Town Hall.” Federal legislators relevant to Rock County, including US Senators Baldwin and Johnson and Congressional Representatives Pocan and Steil, are invited to answer the community’s commentary and questions.
The Town Hall will be strictly nonpartisan, and all attendees will be required to maintain a respectful environment.
The Town Hall will be held at Craig High School, 401 S Randall Ave, Janesville, on Saturday, February 21st, from 2:00-3:30 pm.
You do not need to be a League member to attend. For questions or further information, please contact Brad Munger, Bradmunger@gmail.com.
_____________________________________
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!
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day and we are featuring another long-married couple from Whitewater History. This is a 1923 photo of George and Rebecca Marsh who were married for 54 years. George Marsh was the son of Sanger Marsh, founder of the First National Bank. After working in his father’s bank, George became Cashier, then later, President of the Citizens State Bank. These banks merged in the 1930s as the First Citizens State Bank, still operating today. In May of 1928, George and Rebecca celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary, then both died within weeks of each other in November and December of 1928. A true-life love story!
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(4069P, Whitewater Historical Society)
Jim Caldwell (center) was presented with a 60-Year Club award by Paul Northway (left), president and CEO of American National Bank Fox Cities and the 2025–2026 WBA Chair, and Rose Oswald Poels (right), WBA president and CEO, at the 2026 WBA Bank Executives Conference.
James Caldwell from First Citizens State Bank has been honored with a 60-Year Club Award by the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA). This award recognizes exceptional dedication to Wisconsin’s banking industry. “Few achievements speak more powerfully than a career defined by six decades of service,” said Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. “We are honored to celebrate Jim whose enduring commitment has left an indelible mark on Wisconsin’s banking industry.” Caldwell is a DeForest High School graduate and attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics and his master’s degree in business. He began his career with his first job out of college at First Wisconsin National Bank of Milwaukee, now known as US Bank. After working at First Wisconsin for over eight years, he was employed by the board of directors of First Citizens State Bank on October 1, 1974 as its executive V.P. and was promoted to president in 1979. In 2017, Caldwell transitioned from president & CEO to CEO as Nate Parrish was promoted to president. Caldwell continues to work closely with customers, city leaders, and numerous organizations to strengthen and enrich the communities the bank serves. His passion for CRA (Community Reinvestment Act), business development, community development, and the personal development of his staff and community members is evident every day — shown through the relationships he builds and the advocacy and guidance he provides. Caldwell was recognized during a special luncheon at the largest banking industry event in the state, the WBA Bank Executives Conference. This year’s event took place on February 5, 2026, in Wisconsin Dells. About the Wisconsin Bankers Association Founded in 1892, the Wisconsin Bankers Association is the state’s largest financial industry trade association, representing 180 commercial banks and savings institutions, their branches, and nearly 30,000 employees. The Association represents banks of all sizes in Wisconsin, and 96 percent of banks in the state are WBA members. Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Wisconsin Bankers Association. |
The League of Women Voters Whitewater Area is proud to sponsor The State of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, The State of the City of Whitewater, and The State of the Whitewater Unified School District.”
Dr. Corey A. King, UW-Whitewater Chancellor, Samuel Karns, Whitewater Unified School District Superintendent, and John Weidl, Whitewater City Manager, are invited to present the state of their respective institutions.
The State of Our City and Schools will be held at the Whitewater Public Library, 431 W Center St, Whitewater, on Thursday, February 19th, from 6:30-8:00 pm.
You do not need to be a League member to attend. For questions or further information, please contact Mary Beth Byrne, wisconsinwoods@gmail.com.
_____________________________________
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!
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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