Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Monday, May 11, 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.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by the Whitewater Public Library.
Chad Lewis will visit the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library on Tuesday, October 3 at 6:30 p.m. to tell the Bizarre History of Wisconsin. Filled with strange deaths, ghosts and spirits, sea serpents, peculiar people, medical anomalies, oddities, psychic phenomena, and UFOs, this presentation will certainly change the way you view the good ol’ days of Wisconsin. Adults and teens are welcome to attend this free event.
Chad Lewis is a paranormal researcher and author for Unexplained Research. Chad holds a Master’s of Science degree in Applied Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Chad had trekked across the world in search of the paranormal. From tracking vampires in Transylvania and chasing the Chupacabras in Puerto Rico, to searching for the elusive monster in Loch Ness, and pursuing ghosts in Ireland’s castles, Chad brings over 18 years of research experience to his presentations.
The library is located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater. There is no cost or registration to attend. Contact Sarah French with questions or accommodation requests at sfrench@whitewater-wi.gov or 262-568-2782.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Tom Kraus.
The 6th Annual Southern Lakes Conference Sports reunion will be held at 11:30 September 29th at Someplace Else in Elkhorn. This year it as been extended to include Classes 1954 to 1962. It is for anyone who played any sport those years (FB, BB Golf etc). If you have any former teammates please invite or bring them along. We need some kind of running total of attendees so please text John at kilkenny@fontier.com. Conference: Mukwonago,Burlington, Delavan, East Troy, Lake Geneva, Wilmot, Whitewater and Elkhorn. Also you can call me Tom 262-215-9985 or text gatortom57@yahoo.com. It is a cash bar and food. So “PLEASE” come and meet some of the guys who maybe put a hit on you or blocked one of your shots again.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater FFA Reporter Katie Gillette.
On July 24th, the Whitewater FFA officer team kicked off their annual officer trip excursion.
Our trip started out with a scenic drive from Whitewater to Monroe, WI. Our first stop was Alp and Dell Cheese Factory. Our amazing tour guide gave us much knowledge about the history and process of how cheese is made. Alp and Dell can make up to 38,000 pounds of cheese in just one day! We all enjoyed the opportunity to eat 23-year-old cheese.
Our journey continued to Yellowstone Lake State Park. Along the way, we saw many different areas of agriculture, endless acres of crops, and many species of wildlife. After settling in our team hit the water. We all enjoyed skiing, tubing, and swimming. We also saw many species of fish.
On July 25th, our team made a short trek to Belmont, where we enjoyed a scenic lookout. Throughout our trip, we enjoyed the vast Amish and Mennonite communities, along with the different groups and departments of agriculture. Our next adventure took place at Crystal Lake Caves in Dubuque, IA. We were given the amazing opportunity to go down over 45 feet and explore the caves. We learned the history and artifacts behind the caves that first originated in 1868. The atmosphere was incredible. Oohs and Ahhs could be heard throughout the cave.
Following our cave adventure we headed to the heart of Dubuque. We arrived at Eagle Point Park to enjoy some sightseeing of the majestic Mississippi River. We continued later that evening with more water fun and team bonding.
On July 26th, our trip concluded with our FFA team working together on our yearly planning and discussions which will be the foundation for the upcoming year.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by the Whitewater Historical Society.
The public is invited at 1 p.m. on Sunday, October 1, 2023, when the Whitewater Historical Society holds its fall program. The Special Guest will be Kristina Koslosky of Kreative Solutions, Inc. She will be discussing her work with the new Whitewater Historical Society website. Working with the historical society, she was responsible for the creative redesign and the technical process to make the website more user friendly to both historical society personnel and the general public. Along with Carol Cartwright, who will talk about the content of the website, Ms. Koslosky will talk about how she updated this important communication tool for the society.
The program will be held at 1:00 p.m. in the Cravath Lakefront Building, Whitewater Street, in Whitewater. The building is located at in Cravath Lakefront Park right behind Me and My Pets (147 W. Whitewater Street, just go under the arch).
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Patty Harmon.
Dine In and enjoy the Monday Night Campus & Community Free Spaghetti Meal! Whether you dine in or take out, beginning September 18, from 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m., we will be serving fresh spaghetti pasta, choice of Marinara or Alfredo sauces, 2 Italian meatballs, with Parmesan cheese, Italian spices and a slice of garlic bread. All are welcome to partake in the meal at the Congregational UCC Church, 133 S. Franklin Street, Whitewater WI. The meal is coordinated by the Congregational UCC and First English Lutheran Church, Whitewater.
“If we serve only one person, we take comfort knowing that that one person did not walk away hungry.”
El 18 de septiembre, la espera ha terminado… ¡La Cena de Espagueti Gratis de los lunes por la noche es para sentarse y cenar en el lugar! ¡Ven a cenar y disfruta de la Cena de Espagueti Gratis para el Campus y la Comunidad de los lunes por la noche! Ya sea que comas en el lugar o para llevar, a partir del 18 de septiembre, de 5:00 p.m. a 6:00 p.m., estaremos sirviendo espagueti fresco, con la opción de salsas Marinara o Alfredo, 2 albóndigas italianas, con queso parmesano, especias italianas y una rebanada de pan de ajo. Todos son bienvenidos a participar en la comida en la Iglesia Congregacional UCC, en la calle 133 S. Franklin, Whitewater, WI. La comida está coordinada por la Iglesia Congregacional UCC y la Primera Iglesia Luterana de Inglés, Whitewater. “Si solo servimos a una persona, nos reconforta saber que esa persona no se fue con hambre.”
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by the Whitewater Public Library.
Community members are invited to attend the “Love. Family. Freedom.” presentation by Kim Simes at the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library on Monday, October 2 at 5:30 p.m. This presentation will provide an overview on LGBTQ+ families and the current environment in which we’re living. Simes is the Chief of Staff, People and Culture for Family Equality, a national non-profit organization that exists to create a world where everyone can experience the unconditional love, safety and belonging of family. As a leader in the LGBTQ+ movement, Simes credits her success to putting relationships and connections with and among people first, while working to make inclusive, positive changes for all members of the LGBTQ+ community. Simes has degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in Communications (undergraduate) and Counseling (masters).
The presentation is cosponsored by Whitewater Pride and the League of Women Voters of Whitewater Area. Ellen Penwell, President of the League, states that the organization is “proud to partner with the Irvin L Young Memorial Library in support of programming that advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, which align with the League’s policy and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in principle and practice.”
There is no cost or registration to attend. The Irvin L. Young Memorial Library is located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater. Contact the library at 262-473-0530 with questions.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Doug Anderson.
Dean: I see our names are on the tiles!
Arthur: Mom and Dad gave to the library fund in our names to remind us about how important the library has been to our growth and development. In 25 years we will be prepared to support the library ourselves.
You too, can pay it forward for your kids or grandkids by putting their names on the wall to remind them each time they enter how important the library is to you and them. $250 for two lines on a tile up to 40 characters. Use the QR code or visit http://bit.ly/3DwnndS to make a gift online. Write a check to Whitewater Community Foundation, PO Box 428, Whitewater, WI 53190. Enter Library Fund in memo line.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Jeff Knight.
The Greater Whitewater Committee (GWC)’s 11th annual Discover Whitewater Series (DWS): Half Marathon, Half Marathon Teams, and 5k was a smashing success, raising money for local charities.
This year’s DWS brought in 475 participants, 200+ volunteers, and nearly 70 sponsors. The DWS team was thrilled to welcome 39 runners from nine different states other than Wisconsin. The weather was cooler and rainy this morning for runners with a temperature of 60 degrees.
UW-Whitewater Chancellor Dr. Corey King arrived bright and early this morning to give the welcoming remarks and wish all of the participants a great race.
Women’s Half Marathon Winners: Jenny Zwagerman, Megan Wagner, Kortney Pippenger
Men’s Half Marathon Winners: David Fassbender, Braeden Michael, Carl Greene
Half Marathon Teams Winner: Jenny Zwagerman, Tyler Zwagerman, Alex Moehn, Christina Moehn
Women’s 5k Winners: Alyse Peters, Heidi Mane, Kate Omernik
Men’s 5k Winners: Mark Elworthy, Quinn Mckenzie, Lucas Springstroh
To see all race results, visit: https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/26133
As runners ventured through the course, they got to experience some of Whitewater’s finest features. The DWS team was proud to welcome new and returning participants alike. Thanks to all of the hard work of volunteers and sponsors, this 11th Annual DWS proved to achieve its mission of bringing people together in support of a good cause.
All proceeds will be distributed to the DWS’ four charity partners: Whitewater LEADS, Working for Whitewater’s Wellness (W3), Bethel House of Whitewater, and the J-Hawk Aquatic Club. Runners and volunteers joined together after the race to celebrate the day’s accomplishments, enjoying a free beverage from bronze sponsor 841 Brewhouse.
“The 11th Annual DWS was an amazing community event,” said Race Director, Dawson Miller, “It was great to see runners and volunteers showcase their hard work.”
The DWS team would like to thank all who came out in support of the race. The entire community has been a part of such an amazing event that has greatly helped charities across Whitewater.
For further details, please contact Jeffery Knight, Executive Director at 920.728.0662 or jpk@knightpublicaffairs.com.
About the DWS
The goal of the DWS is to promote the City of Whitewater and highlight its greatest features, while keeping everyone in the community active. All the proceeds from the race are donated to local non-profit partners: Bethel House (which provides interim housing for homeless families), Whitewater LEADS, Working for Whitewater’s Wellness (W3), and the J-Hawk Aquatic Club. The DWS partners with the city, business community, and university to make this a tremendous event that benefits all who participate. For more information about the race visit www.runwhitewater.com.
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
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.
