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On Saturday, November 18, WHS students participated in the Madison Model United Nations conference at Middleton High School. The Madison Area Model United Nations (MADMUN) Conference is a high school Model UN conference organized and run by students from multiple high schools throughout Wisconsin. The conference is geared towards students of all ability levels (beginner through advanced) and is a great way to kick off the Model UN conference season. Students learn the structure of parliamentary procedure, how to debate and communicate ideas, and how to problem-solve international issues.
MADMUN allows its participants to step outside their comfort zones, outside the echo chambers that many of our media algorithms, friend groups, peers, and families often become. By acquiring knowledge about diverse international cultures, policies, and approaches to some of the most pressing topics of our world today, delegates learn valuable lessons in communication, compromise, and empathy.
Students wrote position papers and participated in various issues at MADMUN, ranging from AI in the workplace to Ukrainian Refugees in Italy. Emilia Houwers served as a Co-Chair of the Human Rights Council at MADMUN along with Sam Witt of Lake Mills High School. This leadership role was the first time a WHS student had ever participated in a MADMUN conference as a Co-Chair.
Article and Photos Submitted by Greg Stewart
Whitewater High School Model United Nations Advisor
gstewart@wwusd.org
| Gov. Tony Evers on November 17 ordered the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Tues., Nov. 21, 2023, in recognition of the anniversary of the 2021 Waukesha Christmas Parade tragedy and to honor the six individuals who were senselessly and tragically killed in the attack: Tamara Durand, 52; Wilhelm Hospel, 81; Jane Kulich, 52; Leanna Owen, 71; Virginia Sorenson, 79; and Jackson Sparks, 8. “Today marks the two-year anniversary of the senseless act of violence at the Waukesha Christmas Parade that took the lives of six cherished members of the community and injured many others. In the wake of this devastation, we saw an entire community come together to mourn the lives lost and to begin the long road towards recovery, and have seen the kindness, strength, and resilience of Waukesha as the community united behind the message ‘Waukesha Strong,’” said Gov. Evers. “As we observe this anniversary, Kathy and I are thinking of all those who were affected by this horrible tragedy, including the victims and survivors and the first responders and community members who ran toward danger to help their neighbors in their time of need. We are also keeping the families of Tamara, Wilhelm, Jane, Leanna, Virginia, and Jackson in our hearts. Their memories will live on through the unity, strength, and light felt throughout this community, and they will not be forgotten.” Executive Order #216 will be in effect from sunrise to sunset on Tues., Nov. 21, 2023, and is available here. |
Editor’s note: The following press release was received from the Rock County Sheriff’s Office. The Banner has previously been assured that participants in the classes need not be residents of Rock County.
Sheriff Fell is pleased to announce that the Rock County Sheriff’s Office will offer our second and final Snowmobile Safety Education Course of the season on December 5, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., and December 16, 2023, 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, 1985, is required to complete a Snowmobile Safety Education Course in order to legally operate a snowmobile in places 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 following completion of the class.
Snowmobile Safety Education Course – Class #2
Session 1: December 5, from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. @ Rock Co. Fairgrounds – Craig Center
Session 2: December 16, 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/snowmobile-education
Class size is limited to thirty (30) 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.
Mark Dorn writes, “A morning coffee time visitor to the Village at Trippe Lake: a Great Blue Heron on Thursday!”
(I identified the bird utilizing the Cornell Labs Merlin app).
Our thanks to Mark Dorn for another beautiful nature photo.
— 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!
By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
Edgerton Hospital and Health Services opened their first Whitewater clinic on November 13 at 757 E. Milwaukee Street, Suite C. The clinic is located on the side of the building in which a Subway restaurant operated for many years.
Services at the clinic will be provided by Dr. Rene Buenzow, DNP, PMHNP-BC, APNP, APRN-BC. Although Buenzow has been a family nurse practitioner for over 18 years, she also recently completed her psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certification through University of Iowa. Half of the week she will be doing family practice, from birth to older adults, including urgent care. Buenzow also offers obstetric care, which generally transitions at about 32 weeks to the physician or midwife who will be delivering the baby. The other half of the week she will be doing psychiatry: assessing, diagnosing, and prescribing medications for all psychiatric diagnoses. If “talk therapy” (counseling) is needed, that would be provided by another professional.
Dr. Buenzow told the Banner that she wanted to be able to provide mental health care because in family practice she would see so many patients who had untreated concerns in that area. Recently she had been practicing in a clinic in Madison, but previously she had worked primarily in rural Iowa, and she missed the opportunities that being in those settings provided for knowing a whole family. She describes herself as an ally of the LGBTQ+ community. Buenzow was attracted to signing on with Edgerton Hospital because she felt that the CEO is a visionary and also for the chance to return to a small town practice. Edgerton participates in a large number of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Although it is affiliated with SSM Health, Buenzow advocates for her patients to direct their own health care, and if someone needs a referral she is happy to make one to any provider.
When asked if Edgerton might consider also bringing some specialists to Whitewater, CEO Marc Augsburger indicated it could be a possibility, although that might need to take place in a different building, as the clinic is relatively small, with only two exam rooms.
Buenzow indicated she looks forward to serving the Whitewater community, saying, “I truly enjoy building relationships with patients and families and being part of the community. It is a privilege to be part of patients’ lives, in both family practice and as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Edgerton Hospital and Health Services is committed to improving access to healthcare and we are happy to serve the Whitewater community.”
Appointments may be made by calling 608-561-6740. For more information visit edgertonhospital.com.
Edgerton Hospital is a Critical Access Hospital. The hospital serves the communities of Edgerton, Milton and surrounding communities. Founded in 1923, the facility offers inpatient, outpatient, surgical, diagnostic, emergency, urgent care and rehabilitation services. It is an affiliate of SSM Health.
The Irvin L. Young Memorial Library is offering a series of free classes for adults and teens focused on creating handmade items for the holidays. All classes begin at 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, November 21: Confetti Candles and DIY Vanilla
Tuesday, November 28: Pinecone Flowers
Tuesday, December 12: Pomander Balls
Tuesday, December 19: Festive Garland
The events will be held in the Irvin L Young Memorial Library’s Community Room located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater. There is no cost or registration to attend.
Contact Sarah French with questions at sfrench@whitewater-wi.gov or 262-458-2782.
Now is the time to get influenza, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines for best protection ahead of holidays
Editor’s note: The following press release was received from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services’ (DHS) most recent weekly Respiratory Virus Surveillance Report shows that flu, COVID-19, and RSV cases are increasing, with the state especially seeing an increase in hospitalizations of young children infected with RSV.
“Respiratory illnesses increase during the colder months as we spend more time indoors,” said Respiratory Disease Epidemiologist Tom Haupt. “Our current data show that we are starting to see a rapid increase of RSV, alongside increases in both influenza and COVID-19. This is a sign to all of us that now is the time to get vaccinated to get the best protection ahead of holiday activities and gatherings, and to take additional steps to prevent the spread of illness including staying home from work, school, and other gatherings if you are sick.”
Seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Pregnant people, parents of children under 19 months, and adults over 60 should talk to their doctor about RSV vaccines and preventive treatments.
“Getting vaccinated now will help your body build protection against these viruses and can prevent you from getting sick or spreading the virus to others, or can keep your symptoms mild if you do get sick,” said Wisconsin Immunization Program Manager Stephanie Schauer. “This is especially important for older people, those with chronic health conditions, those who are pregnant, and young children.”
Data from the DHS Influenza Vaccine Dashboard shows 24.4% of Wisconsinites have received a flu shot this season. Data from the DHS COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard show only 9% of Wisconsinites have received an updated COVID-19 vaccine.
Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are reported to be in good supply statewide and supplies of pediatric COVID-19 vaccine continue to arrive at health centers and clinics. National shortages of RSV preventive treatment for infants (nirsevimab) continue to impact Wisconsin. Health care providers are asked to prioritize infants at highest risk of severe illness, and pregnant people are reminded that getting the RSV vaccine can protect infants once they are born.
In addition to getting recommended vaccines, other things you can do to prevent respiratory illnesses include washing your hands regularly, cleaning surfaces, and taking good care of your body. This also includes getting good sleep, drinking plenty of water, managing stress, and exercising regularly.
When planning holiday celebrations, remember that respiratory viruses spread more easily when people are gathered indoors. If you are feeling sick, get tested. Talk to a doctor about getting tested for COVID-19, influenza, RSV, or other respiratory viruses. Wisconsinites can still order free at-home COVID-19 tests from the federal government. If you are sick, stay home, especially if you test positive or have symptoms of COVID-19, flu, or other illnesses. This helps protect others, especially those who are most vulnerable.
Visit the DHS website for up-to-date information about COVID-19, the flu, and RSV. Additional information about the 2023-2024 respiratory season can be found in the DHS Weekly Respiratory Report.
By Broderick Frye
Asst. Sports Information Director
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater women’s basketball team exploded in the first quarter after a slower start and kept their lead for the rest of the game off of efficient shooting. As a team, the Warhawks shot 61.2% from the floor, a Warhawk single-game record, breaking their 61.0% mark (happened 3 times: 1986 against Rust College, 1990 against UW-La Crosse, and 1991 against Wisconsin Lutheran).
Only four minutes into the game, Carroll only led 6-3 as both teams struggled to get anything going offensively. At the first media timeout, the Warhawks regained the lead after Maggie Trautsch (Sun Prairie, Wis./DeForest) hit a step-back three-pointer to put them up 7-6. That three-ball kick-started the offense and UW-Whitewater put together a 14-0 run to enter the first break up 18-6. The Warhawks held the Pioneers to 2-for-16 from the floor in the first quarter.
The Warhawks maintained their lead in the second quarter, bringing it up to eight to end the first half. The second quarter was fueled by three-point shooting from both teams, with UW-Whitewater nailing four out of their eight three-pointers in the quarter. Carroll went 2-for-5 from deep in the second quarter but was unable to overcome the first quarter deficit.
After the halftime break, both teams traded baskets evenly, but UW-Whitewater pulled ahead a little bit more, going up 58-44 at the third quarter buzzer.
Kacie Carollo (Whitewater, Wis./Whitewater)found the holes in the defense in the third, recording three of her seven assists.
The Warhawks opened up the fourth quarter going 8-for-8 and not missing a shot from the floor until there was only two minutes left in the game. The Pioneers put together a 7-point scoring run as time expired but were unable to overcome the Warhawks.
Aleah Grundahl (DeForest, Wis./DeForest) led all scorers with 21 points. Grundahl also pulled down 7 rebounds, dished out 5 assists, and recorded 3 steals for an impressive all-around stat line. Carollo added 16 points of her own, with 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Traustch rounded out the scoring with 12 points of her own and was stellar on defense, rejecting 3 Pioneer shots.
The Warhawks will head out on a two-game road stretch, facing off against Illinois Wesleyan on Tuesday, Nov. 21 and Calvin on Saturday, Nov. 25.
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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