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Today is Tuesday, May 12, 2026
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By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
According to an article on channel3000.com, “The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents on Wednesday [December 13] voted to approve a deal with the Republican-led state Legislature to provide funds for the school system in exchange for a freeze on diversity, equity and inclusion positions, among other conditions.
The regents voted 11-6 to approve the deal, which unlocks raises for UW employees and funding for capital projects including a proposed engineering building at UW-Madison.
Three chancellors, including UW-Whitewater Chancellor Dr. Corey A. King, spoke in support of the deal. UW-Milwaukee Chancellor Mark A. Mone cited a need to approve raises in order to retain staff.
The regents voted 9-8 on Saturday to reject the deal; however, on Tuesday a second vote was scheduled.“
Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman had recommended approval of the agreement, the development of which was spearheaded significantly by Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. Total funding that will be freed up by the agreement is over $800 million. Rothman indicated that the UWs rank 42nd out of 50 states nationally in public funding, stating, “We will continue to advocate that our state must do better.”
Governor Tony Evers did not support the agreement. After the affirmative vote he issued a statement that included the following comments, “This vote today represents a vast overreach by a group of Republicans who’ve grown exceedingly comfortable overextending, manipulating, and abusing their power to control, subvert, and obstruct basic functions of government. Republicans are unconstitutionally obstructing UW pay raises and investments that were already discussed, negotiated, and approved in the biennial budget the Legislature passed and I signed in July—these never should’ve been part of this conversation, period, because Republicans need only choose to release today what we all approved of months ago. Wisconsin also has readily available state resources we could invest right now, today, in our UW System to prevent further closures and layoffs—a fact of which legislative Republicans are more than well aware but refuse to do anything about, having rejected, for example, my proposed investments for the UW-Madison engineering building on two separate occasions already.”
Conditions of the agreement include:
1. Capping overall administrative positions at the UWs for three years.
2. Capping and restructuring positions dealing with diversity, equity and inclusion. Also, addressing specific issues connected to diversity and inclusion issues at the UWs, including:
a. UW-Madison to seek philanthropic support to create an endowed chair on conservative political thought or a similar field.
b. The UWs will eliminate any diversity statements in its admission applications.
c. The UWs will develop a module on freedom of expression for entering undergraduate students.
3. Guaranteeing admissions for the top 5% of in-state high school graduates at UW-Madison and the top 10% at all other UWs.
As part of the agreement, the Legislature would act on the following:
1. Approval of the pay plan for all UWs employees – 4% in ’23 and 2% in ’24.
2. Approval of the UWs $32 million workforce proposal to add capacity and develop talent in four key, high-demand fields of engineering, nursing/health care, business/finance, and computer/data science.
3. Approval of the new engineering hall at UW-Madison.
4. Approve the renovation of Winther/Heide Hall at UW-Whitewater.
The Whitewater High School Pom Team hit the court at halftime of a basketball game December 2, just two months after the creation of the team.
Back in October, a few interested students approached WUSD Athletic Director Justin Crandall with questions about what it would take to start a pom team at WHS. Crandall sensed the enthusiasm and spirit in the group, telling them that it would be possible—as long as they had a coach.
Pam O’Neal, a parent of one of the team’s student-athletes, stepped up to the challenge and got the team started on the logistics of beginning the season on a tight timeline. Tasks such as forming the team, acquiring uniforms and poms, and creating and teaching the routines needed to be tackled right away.
“The way this team came together and organized their first performance in just two months is an example of what makes the Whitewater Unified School District such a special place,” said Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, Superintendent. “We are so proud of these students, Coach O’Neal, and everyone who has made it happen. The team’s first performance was outstanding, and we look forward to them performing at many more events throughout the school year.”
The team already has 20 athletes and has raised over $4,000 in just a few weeks to purchase uniforms and poms. Looking ahead, the team aims to build on its foundation, expanding its repertoire of routines, and continuing to inspire and entertain.
The team’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power and spirit of a dedicated group of students ready to make their mark on the high school experience.
To watch the WHS Pom Team’s inaugural performance, please visit https://www.youtube.com/live/e1T_8OYHgFs?si=7b4ijbDnkKW_ySUm&t=3842.
Editor’s note: The above press release was received from the Whitewater Unified School District.
By Angela Kelm
Asst. Athletic Director for Sports Information
Waco, Texas — University of Wisconsin-Whitewater senior defensive back Egon Hein has earned First Team All-America honors from the American Football Coaches Association for his performance on the gridiron this season.
Attached Photos: Egon Hein defending against Wheaton in the second round of the NCAA Playoffs; Egon Hein returns an interception against Wheaton in the second round of NCAA Playoffs (Courtesy of Larry Radloff, d3photo)
Hein returned from injury to play in seven contests this season. A 2023 First Team All-Region and First Team All-Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference honoree, Hein is a lockdown defender frequently tasked with shutting down top receivers. During the 2023 campaign, Hein registered 36 tackles, tallied three interceptions and broke up nine passes.
The senior is a semifinalist for the 2023 Gagliardi Trophy given to the top football player in Division III. Hein was also a semifinalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy awarded to the football player with the best combination of academics, community service and on-field performance.
The AFCA All-America Teams are determined by a selection committee made up of head coaches representing each conference in the AFCA’s seven districts.
The following article was posted to The Messenger Sports on December 10.
Broncos Right Guard Quinn Meinerz Taken to Hospital Due to Elevated Heart Rate
Meinerz told the team’s trainers late in the first half that he was dealing with chest tightness and an elevated heart rate, according to ESPN.
Denver Broncos right guard Quinn Meinerz will remain in a Los Angeles area hospital on Sunday night, after the 25-year-old experienced an elevated heart rate during Denver’s 24-7 win against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Meinerz, a third-year pro out of Wisconsin-Whitewater [he was an offensive lineman,] told the team’s trainers late in the first half that he was dealing with chest tightness and an elevated heart rate, according to ESPN’s Jeff Legwold.
ESPN reported that Meinerz, although “feeling better” after the game, was taken to the hospital for precautionary reasons. The Broncos anticipate him to return to Denver on Monday.
After the game, head coach Sean Payton told reporters that he “nothing to report” regarding Meinerz.
According to the Denver Post on December 11, “Broncos right guard Quinn Meinerz was released from a Los Angeles-area hospital Monday and is returning to Denver. Head coach Sean Payton on Monday morning didn’t say much more than that, but confirmed, “Quinn will be back today. That’s really the update we have.”
Department of Health Services Urges Wisconsinites to Throw Away Applesauce Brands That are Part of Nationwide Recall Due to High Levels of Lead
Parents and caregivers should have children tested for elevated blood levels if they ate applesauce products included in the recall
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is advising food retailers and consumers to dispose of specific brands of applesauce containing cinnamon following a nationwide recall related to several brands of cinnamon applesauce puree pouches. These products may contain harmful levels of lead.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for the following brands of applesauce puree that contain cinnamon:
- WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree pouches
- Schnucks cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches
- Schnucks applesauce variety pack
- Weis cinnamon applesauce pouches
Multiple cases of lead poisoning have already been identified in several states, including three suspected cases in Wisconsin that are being investigated, due to children eating one of these products. A child has lead poisoning when their blood lead level measures greater than or equal to 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL).
Wisconsin’s Coolest Annual Event Celebrates 25 Years
Special Olympics Wisconsin debuts 2024 Polar Plunge campaign with Inclusive Plunge, anniversary celebration
MADISON, Wis. – Thousands of Special Olympics Wisconsin supporters across the state will be “Freezin’ for a Reason” at the 2024 Polar Plunge® for Special Olympics Wisconsin. This year’s slate of eight statewide events—plus an alternate plunge option—will celebrate 25 years of ice-cold memories. Additionally, Special Olympics Wisconsin will host the first ADA-compliant Inclusive Plunge in the nation.
New in 2024, the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Wisconsin will host its first ever Inclusive Plunge. Using its ramp-entry lap pool, the Whitewater Aquatic Center will provide a unique Plunge experience for those with accessibility considerations. More information about the Inclusive Plunge will be announced at a later date.
“We are thrilled to celebrate 25 years of the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Wisconsin,” Special Olympics Wisconsin President & CEO Chad Hershner said. “We have some great new locations on tap for 2024, and we are working hard to elevate this largest annual fundraising event for the organization. This year especially, we want to recognize so many incredible moments across so many incredible communities—truly 25 years of unyielding support for our Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes.”
Three options for participation are available in 2024. First, and arguably most fun, Polar Plunger individuals and teams can jump in person across six Saturdays in eight statewide locations:
Saturday, Feb. 3 – Wisconsin Rapids (Anchor Bay Bar & Grill)
Saturday, Feb. 10 – Oshkosh (Menominee Park)
Saturday, Feb. 17 – Madison (Lottes Park)
Saturday, Feb. 24 – Green Bay (Perkofski Boat Launch)
Saturday, Feb. 24 – Milwaukee (Fox Brook Park)
Saturday, Mar. 2 – Chippewa Falls (Loopy’s Grill & Saloon)
Saturday, Mar. 2 – La Crosse (Black River Beach)
Saturday, Mar. 9 – Whitewater (Whitewater Aquatic Center)*
Polar Plungers unavailable for an in-person plunge can still fundraise via the Alternative Plunge—a truly “create your own adventure” option. Dump a bucket of ice water over your head in the driveway, or take a dive on your spring break trip to warmer waters—all for a great cause. All Polar Plunge participants are encouraged to share their plunge via online form submission and by tagging SOWI on social media while using the hashtag #PlungeWI.
Those opting out of an icy dip can become a Polar Pledger, still raising funds in support of Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes without getting wet.
For both Polar Plungers and Polar Pledgers, each individual reaching the minimum fundraising fee of $100 is eligible for incentives. This year’s prizes include a collectible long sleeve t-shirt, socks, towel, blanket, and Bluetooth speaker—all branded with Special Olympics Wisconsin or 25 Years of Polar Plunge logos.
All funds raised for this unique winter tradition helps thousands of statewide athletes train and compete in sporting events, supports year-round health and wellness programming, promotes inclusion in schools, and equips individuals with intellectual disabilities training and leadership tools to become important contributors within their own communities.
More information, including event registration for each location and participation options, can be found at PlungeWI.org. Pre-registrations are highly encouraged, but on-site day-of registration will also be available.
Estee E. Scholtz
Editor’s note: The following press release was received from Estee Scholtz for Circuit Court.
ELKHORN, WISCONSIN – Estee E. Scholtz, a lifetime member of Walworth County and former Assistant District Attorney who now serves as Deputy Corporation Counsel in the Walworth County Office of Corporation Counsel has announced that she will seek election to Branch I of the Walworth County Circuit Court upon the retirement of the Honorable Phillip A. Koss. “Judge Koss has been a mentor for my entire legal career so it would be an honor to fill his seat as the next Walworth County Circuit Court Judge and continue to serve the community, as I have for many years. I am dedicated to the safety of our Walworth County communities and will work tirelessly to preserve the rights and freedoms afforded by our Constitution.” says Scholtz.
A Badger for 10 years (four years at Badger High School, four years at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and two years at the University of Wisconsin Law School), and a first-generation college graduate, Scholtz has dedicated her career to public service and has nearly 15 years of litigation experience representing the State of Wisconsin in criminal matters, the County’s interest in mental health and guardianship cases, and the interests of the public in child welfare proceedings.
In 2018, Scholtz received the Tree House Child and Family Center Service Award for her work in multidisciplinary team meetings for sensitive crimes investigations and for her dedication to the revisions to the Sensitive Crimes Response Team Protocol. Scholtz has committed over 10 years of her legal career to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community, its children, while also focusing on restoring families when appropriate. Scholtz has worked alongside law enforcement as a prosecutor, trained law enforcement and social workers locally and across the state, and has presented to fellow attorneys of the Walworth County Bar Association for which she currently serves as President.
Scholtz has litigated numerous cases in the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, the federal district courts, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit on behalf of Walworth County. “This range of experience is foundational to rendering decisions and following the rule of law in court where each individual before me will be treated with respect, dignity and fairness,” says Scholtz.
Scholtz serves as a Police Commissioner for the Town of Geneva and is an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 24. She resides in Geneva Township with her husband, Air Force Veteran John Scholtz, and their three children. She also coaches a youth alpine ski racing program and skis for the Brown’s Lake Aquaducks Waterski Show Team.
More recently, Scholtz has played an essential role in facilitating the County Board’s American Rescue Plan Act programs which have helped numerous individuals and organizations throughout the County, as well as drafting the contract and lease agreements for the Sheriff’s Office 911 radio communications system project. She also presides over the Family Treatment Court Program when needed.
Estee Scholtz is your local candidate who will best serve this community as Circuit Court Judge and asks for your vote in the April 2, 2024 spring election. If needed, a primary election will be held on February 20, 2024. Estee Scholtz can be reached at EsteeScholtzforJudge@gmail.com.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Unites Lives.
Jim Winship is a WUL Hometown Hero, and he was nominated by The Capital Campaign Committee for the Whitewater Public Library renovation, “For his service as the Chair of the Irvin L. Young Library Expansion and Renovation effort. Jim led the Capital Campaign committee with dedication, care, and creativity. Jim was loud and proud about the needs of the library, mobilizing the whole community who responded with enthusiasm and generosity, swiftly raising $2.3 million, exceeding the original goal of the campaign.”
The Committee shares: “Jim Winship is a gem in our community. He is committed to improving the lives of all who call Whitewater home. Jim’s engagement with the City Council, Bethel House, and UW-Whitewater reflects a passion for fostering connections and creating opportunities for people to support one another. If our nomination stopped there, Jim would be deserving of the Hometown Hero award. But with Jim, there’s always more to his service and dedication.
Specifically, we join together to nominate Jim Winship for the Hometown Hero Award for his service as the Chair of the Irvin L. Young Library Expansion and Renovation effort. Jim led the Capital Campaign committee with dedication, care, and creativity. Jim was loud and proud about the needs of the library, mobilizing the whole community who responded with enthusiasm and generosity, swiftly raising $2.3 million, exceeding the original goal of the campaign. Thank you, Jim, for your tireless leadership to improve a trusted and essential community institution. Your genuine love for our town inspires us to be change agents, embracing the role of building a brighter, more resilient future for all.”
The Capital Campaign Committee:
Anne Hartwick
Jon Kachel
Richard Haney
Ginger Katzman
Doug Anderson
Jennifer Motszko
Gayle Stettler
Kelly Davis
Stacey Lunsford
Diane Jaroch
WUL (Whitewater Unites Lives) is a locally-focused civil and human rights group that works to connect the people in our community and to create opportunities for all people to learn and support each other in our common humanity.
Anyone who would like to nominate a local hero of any age should send their nomination, with a short description, to whitewaterunites@gmail.com
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
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