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Today is Saturday, October 10, 2026
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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.
Whitewater Girls’ Basketball lost 66-27 Friday night, November 17, to a very talented Elkhorn team.
Although the result was less than desired, there was a huge improvement with ball movement and spacing on offense. In addition, a much more aggressive mentality on defense led to many deflections and steals.
The Whippets return to action on Tuesday, November 21, against Delavan-Darien in the conference opener. The tip is 7:15 at Delavan-Darien High School.
Article Submitted by Mike Dowden
Whitewater High School Head Girls’ Basketball Coach
dowmi01@wwusd.org
Photo courtesy of Bob Mischka
By Angela Kelm
Asst. Athletic Director for Sports Information
Whitewater, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater will host Wheaton (IL) in the second round of the NCAA Division III Football Playoffs Saturday, November 25. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m. at Perkins Stadium. The Banner’s article on the Warhawk’s 42-14 first round win on Saturday, November 18 over Bethel (MN) may be viewed here.
More information will be announced this week including links to purchase tickets and parking in advance.
By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
The city’s curbside leaf pickup ended on Friday, November 17. Some black bags have still been observed at the curbside; as has been previously announced, the city can only pick up biobags or clear bags.
Leaf bags that are left outside for the winter will not be picked up by the city crew in the spring. Residents who still have leaves which they still wish to be composted have the option of bringing their leaves to the city garage, 150 E. Starin Rd., where one or more dumpsters will be provided, Monday through Friday, between November 20 and December 1. The facility will be closed for the holiday on Thursday, November 23 and Friday, November 24.
The dumpsters are for leaves and other yard waste only. Yard waste is defined as leaves, weeds, grass clippings, and yard and garden debris. The only bags that may be placed in the dumpster are the biobags or transparent bags. Black bags must be emptied into the dumpster. Brush is not to be placed in the dumpster.
Residents requesting brush collection should call 473-0560 by 5 a.m. on Tuesday to make an appointment for pick up on Tuesdays.
By Angela Kelm
Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Information
Newville, Penn. – The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater men’s cross country team finished tenth at the 2023 NCAA Division III Championships Saturday led by a national runner-up performance by Christian Patzka (Black Earth, Wis./Wisconsin Heights). The championships were held in Newville, Pennsylvania on the most difficult course the Warhawks have been on this season.
The Warhawks have now finished among the top 10 as a team at the NCAA championship three consecutive seasons and six times overall in program history. A total of 32 team competed in the national championship meet.
Patzka finished second for the second consecutive season crossing the line in 24:20.7 on the tough course. He is now a two-time All-American after finishing second a year ago and 23rd in 2021.
Gunner Schlender (Brillion, Wis./Brillion) picked up his third All-America honor with a time of 24:41.5 to finish 11th – his best finish in three career national meets.
The runner-up and eleventh-place finishes are the best for the Warhawks’ top two runners at the championship in program history. The previous best was Jeremy Burks (7th) and Pat Frascone (15th) in 2000.
Dan Anderson (Eau Claire, Wis./McDonell) finished among the top half of the nearly-300 runner field in the men’s race. His time of 25:34.6 was 78th – his best career finish at nationals. Chris Allen (Downers Grove, Ill./North) posted a time of 25:54.2 for 131st followed by Craig Hundley’s (Grayslake, IL/North) 26:07.4 for 163rd.Justin Krause (Ixonia, Wis./Pewaukee) crossed the line in 26:54.4 with Nick Hardin (Greenfield, Wis./Whitnall) wrapping up the Warhawk contingent with a clocking of 26:42.2. Hardin had a valiant performance running over four miles with just one shoe after his was pulled off early in the race.
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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