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By Chris Lindeke, UW-W Communications Manager / Photos courtesy of Southwest Minnesota State University
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater men’s wheelchair basketball team earned its 14th national title in program history by winning the National Wheelchair Basketball Association Men’s College Championship on March 14-16, 2024, at Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall, Minnesota.
The Warhawks punctuated a perfect 3-0 record through the tournament with a 74-67 victory against top-seeded Arizona in the final game to pick up the program’s first national championship since 2016.
“We have all worked so hard over the past two years for this moment – the staff and the players,” coach Jake Williams said. “When you reach your goal and actually achieve it, that feels like the most satisfying part.
“We knew the whole Warhawk family was behind us – some of them were actually waiting for us at our practice facility when we got back. It was amazing to have that welcome home.”
Evan Oberst and Thomas Oberst, general business majors from Hartland, combined for 52 points in the championship game. Evan scored 23 points and added five rebounds and five assists, while Thomas finished with 29 points and team highs of 16 rebounds and nine assists.
Thomas Oberst was named the game’s Most Valuable Player.
UW-Whitewater started its run March 14 with an 81-59 win against Southwest Minnesota State and punched its ticket to the title contest March 15 with a 74-58 triumph against Alabama in the semifinals.
“We really played our best basketball toward the end of the season, which is exactly what we wanted – we peaked at the right time,” Williams said. “We also knew we had great support from our alumni. We know winning means a lot to them, so that helps drive us to give everything.”
The team’s regular season journey – which began with a home tournament on Dec. 1-2, 2023, at Kachel Fieldhouse in Whitewater – helped prepare the team for the tournament.
“We made some big improvements over this past season,” Williams said. “I noticed how well we grew together as a team, formed strong bonds, and learned to play for each other. We also developed mental toughness, which helps in the big games like the ones this past weekend.”
Williams now sets his sights on the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, which are set for Aug. 28-Sept. 8.
Five Warhawks competed along with Williams for the gold medal-winning Team USA last summer at the 2023 Parapan American Games in Santiago, Chile. AJ Fitzpatrick, a human performance major from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Talen Jourdan, a general business major from Deerfield, and Warhawk alums John Boie and Jeromie Meyer were part of that team.
All five hope to be selected for the Paris 2024 roster, which will be announced in early April.
Whitewater Chamber of Commerce Seeks 2023 Chamber Awards Nominations & Announces 2024 Annual Awards Dinner: A Celebration of Collaboration and Community Building
The Whitewater Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce its much-anticipated Annual Awards Dinner, scheduled for April 19, 2024. Held at Chamber partner, Country Inn & Suites in Fort Atkinson, WI, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., this event promises an evening of celebration, camaraderie, and recognition of outstanding contributions to the local business community.
To embrace the spirit of collaboration and community building, the Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce seeks nominations from the Whitewater community for our annual Chamber Awards. Your input is invaluable! We want to honor the many individuals, businesses, and organizations that help Whitewater thrive. This year’s awards are: Good Neighbor, Service Excellence, Lifetime Impact, Discover Whitewater Tourism, and Community Spirit. Nominate your favorites HERE. Please fill out the form by Thursday, March 28th. If you have any questions, contact the Chamber at (262) 473-4005.
“We are thrilled to host the Annual Awards Dinner once again, celebrating the resilience, innovation, and dedication of our local business community,” said Lisa Dawsey Smith, Board President of the Whitewater Chamber of Commerce. “This event is not only a celebration of the individuals, businesses, and organizations that make Whitewater unique, but also serves as an opportunity to connect and inspire collaboration for the continued growth and prosperity of Whitewater.”
The Whitewater Chamber of Commerce extends a warm invitation to all members, partners, and community stakeholders to join the 2024 Annual Awards Dinner. The evening promises fun, connection, and celebration.
Click here for more information and to reserve your seat.
About Whitewater Chamber of Commerce:
The Whitewater Chamber of Commerce serves the area’s local businesses through business education, referrals, advocacy, and networking opportunities. The Chamber also strives to bring business owners and the community together through events and promotions. Our membership of businesses and individuals is dedicated to showcasing Whitewater as the perfect place to live, learn, work, play, and dream.
For questions about the Annual Dinner, contact: Karin Silvius, Director of Membership & Operations at info@whitewaterchamber.com
For questions about the Chamber Awards, contact: Katy Wimer, Director of Content & Communications at tourism@discoverwhitewater.org262-473-4005
With the registration deadline fast approaching, Whitewater Parks and Recreation is urging families to sign up for its recreational youth baseball and softball programs, conducted in partnership with the Quad County League.
The Quad County League, consisting of teams from neighboring communities, offers an exceptional platform for young athletes to partake in friendly competition while teaching essential values such as teamwork, sportsmanship, and skill development. The program, designed to nurture both athletic skills and player character, is ideal for children in grades 2 through 8.
As the deadline of April 5, 2024, draws near, interested families are encouraged to register their children promptly to secure their spots in the league. This is an invaluable opportunity for youth to engage in structured physical activity, foster friendships, and learn crucial life skills through the joy of sport.
The league, organized at different grade levels, ensures fair play by assigning each team a dedicated volunteer head coach and evenly splitting teams based on talent, in accordance with league rules. Participants will enjoy a schedule of games on weekday evenings, with makeup games scheduled for Fridays.
Moreover, an end-of-season league tournament in mid-July promises excitement and a chance for players to showcase their skills and teamwork.
To participate, families can visit www.wwparks.org for registration and additional information. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families.
Don’t miss this opportunity to enrich your child’s life through the thrill of baseball and softball. Register now before the April 5 deadline!
About Whitewater Parks and Recreation:
Whitewater Parks and Recreation is committed to providing diverse recreational opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities in the Whitewater community. Through innovative programming and collaborative partnerships, we strive to promote physical activity, social interaction, and overall well-being.
TMJ4 broadcast this story on March 1. Please click this link to view the video.
With spring ball on the horizon for UW-Whitewater, the Warhawks football team has been ramping up the competition this offseason.
However, it’s not by getting in extra lifts or field work at Perkins Stadium.
The program spent an afternoon at Fairhaven Senior Services playing bingo with its residents.
“We’ve been doing this since I’ve been a freshman,” senior fullback Drake Martin smiled. “It’s a whole lot of fun. Just, you know, the conversations you have and the people you meet.”
UW-Whitewater’s relationship with Fairhaven’s residents spans more than a decade.
“It’s good to connect with the community because they always come out and support us,” senior defensive end Cole Yocum expressed. “Usually in the fall, they always come out to practice, come watch us practice and they love it. It gives them something to do.”
Over the years, the two groups have participated in a variety of activities together including dog treat making, and various arts and crafts.
“Sitting back and being able to see the interactions between the residents, that’s what it’s all about,” Fairhaven Director of Marketing and Leisure Services Brian Robinson shared. “Whether they’re a student athlete, a student, just being able to see and hear these engagements, it’s what I come to work for, what coach allows them to come here for. It just warms [the heart].”
While the Warhawks Football team has built their program on serving others, bingo is just a small token for the residents who have given them so much in return.
“It just gives you something to play for,” Yocum added. “(It’s a) little extra motivation to have their support and everything.”
Fairhaven’s relationship with UW-Whitewater stretches even farther than just with the Warhawks’ Football team.
More than a dozen different groups stretching from athletic teams to even academic departments engage with Fairhaven’s residents on a regular basis.
For more information on how to volunteer at Fairhaven Senior Services, contact Brian Robinson at robinsonb@fairhaven.org.
The Irvin L. Young Memorial Library has two sessions of Little Makers, a process art program for children ages 2-6, coming up. The class allows children to explore and experiment with different art materials, tools, and techniques which help develop their fine motor skills, critical thinking, social/emotional development, and more.
The classes will be held on Thursday, March 21 and Thursday, April 4 at 9:30-10:30 a.m. and are free and open to the public. The class does get messy, so dress accordingly.
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. For a full listing of the library’s events, visit whitewaterlibrary.org.
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This month, Landmark Trek visits the Bassett House on the corner of Main Street and North Prairie. Have you ever wondered who lives there or who owns it? What does it looks like on the inside? Why is its architecture so classic? Take a look at the new Landmark Trek – Episode 8 – The Bassett House to find out.
Please click here to view the video, or scroll down and click on the arrow.
Updated 3/18/24 at 11:45 p.m. to add Community Development Authority meeting information.
City of Whitewater Ethics Committee – Monday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda includes CLOSED SESSION (possibly followed by open session) Findings of the Preliminary Investigation- Attorney Mark Kapocius
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St.
*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://us06web.zoom.us/j/84704938572?pwd=eB6OvfSfHUUxTgN5kokNfb8I9kePog.rU3lE9SZPaa-5Oxv
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 847 0493 8572
Passcode: 566004
Whitewater Unified School District Policy Review Committee – Monday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda: District Leadership Team
Whitewater High School Library
534 South Elizabeth Street
Whitewater Unified School District School Board – Monday @ 6:00 p.m. – CLOSED SESSION to discuss the conduct of a specific certified staff member.
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6:00 p.m. via Zoom Online
– URL: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89382637471?pwd=bDdhSFlZbFBaVUttV0x2bjgydVNqZz09
– Passcode: 001181
———————————————–
– Dial-in: 1-312-626-6799
– Webinar ID: 893 8263 7471
– Passcode: 001181
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Closed Session
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7:00 p.m. via Zoom Online — OPEN SESSION
Agenda includes possible action on closed session discussion, Moment of Silence for Juliette Horner
– URL: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83679735869?pwd=Y0MwV2NFUDlialZ2WStNc1N0QzhOZz09
– Passcode: 454470
———————————————-
– Dial-in: 1-312-626-6799
– Webinar ID: 836 7973 5869
– Passcode: 454470
Irvin L. Young Library Board of Trustees – Monday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Library Building Project update: Presentation by Studio GC, Action regarding the Capital Campaign Funds held by the Whitewater Community Foundation, and Review of the 2023 Annual Report.
Library Community Room 431 West Center
*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 meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81996977532?pwd=ZzVUMTNKZCszdXI5VkVYREVNZUVHdz09
Telephone: +1 312 626 6700
Meeting ID: 819 9697 7532
Passcode: qY3DPqr2
City of Whitewater Common Council – Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes CLOSED SESSION Regarding City Manager’s employment performance, followed by open session which includes Discuss and possible action regarding City Manager’s employment performance, Lakes advisory committee update, TDS city fees, Update on the Strategic Plan and Goals, First reading of Ordinance 2024-O01 an ordinance regarding Mobile Home Community Special Assessments, Second Reading of Ordinance 2079 an ordinance regarding revisions to Chapter 12.22 Construction Standards Adopted, in particular special assessment costs assessed to property owners for sidewalk repair/replacement, and Discussion and possible action of installing a Safe Haven Baby Box at the Fire Department.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room, 312 West Whitewater St.
*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
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88466723171?pwd=wrI_Sb4PeHYlPhSlnAZagy-dUaNkdQ.HBti9PD42ZY_ByLt
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799
Webinar ID: 884 6672 3171
Passcode: 417817
City of Whitewater Parks & Recreation Board Meeting – Wednesday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Lakes Advisory Committee Update and various proposed improvements at WAFC.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*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.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82751359324?pwd=cmFPMzY5RGdCMWxWeS9zTkduUmVFUT09
Meeting ID: 827 5135 9324
Passcode: 449183
Dial by your location
+1 312 626 6799 US
City of Whitewater Community Development Authority Board of Directors
Agenda includes Discussion and possible action regarding Request for Proposals (RFP) for the redevelopment of property acquired by the City located at 216 East Main Street, Update regarding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Whitewater University Technology Park, Inc. and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with respect to operation and use of the City of Whitewater Innovation Center and Technology Park, and Update regarding potential development of residential housing on vacant land owned by Pearson Hale Farm LLC located on Warner Road (Kristen Fish-Peterson)
(In-Person & Virtual)
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room, 312 West Whitewater St.
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://us06web.zoom.us/j/83030596771?pwd=ir1ReFk1Y15e_rxnM0unkOZ9b5atxw.2V7SLtb6p6ZxmW5l
Passcode: 286627
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 830 3059 6771
Passcode: 286627
Community Development Authority Board of Directors – Thursday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda has not been posted as of 3/17.
Celebrate the harmony of community and campus talent as the University/Community Band takes the stage. Join us for an inspiring evening filled with the melodic synergy of UW-Whitewater’s exceptional student musicians and our dedicated community members. Monday, March 18, 7:30 p.m., Young Auditorium, 930 W. Main Street
Admission: Adults, $7; Age 65+, $4, Under age 18, $4. Tickets may be purchased online here. Tickets purchased at the door are subject to a $2 additional fee.
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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