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From wiacsports.com:
COLLEGEVILLE, Minn.—University of Wisconsin-La Crosse’s Joey Stutzman and UW-Whitewater’s Evan Lewandowski have been named two of the 15 semifinalists for the 2022 Gagliardi Trophy, an accolade presented by Jostens, Inc. and the J-Club of Saint John’s University to the most outstanding football player in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III.
Thirteen seniors, one junior and one graduate student make up the semifinalists for the 2022 Gagliardi Trophy.
The Gagliardi Trophy, given annually since 1993, recognizes excellence in athletics, academics and community service. The award is named after John Gagliardi, Saint John’s legendary Hall of Fame head football coach who retired in 2012 with 489 career victories, the most in college football history. He passed away in October 2018 at the age of 91.
Additional semifinalists include: graduate student quarterback Will Bowers of Wheaton College (Ill.); running back Ethan Greenfield of North Central College (Ill.); senior quarterback Kyle King of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (Texas); sophomore running back Jon Lewis of Birmingham-Southern College (Ala.); senior wide receiver Phil Lutz of Tufts University (Mass.); junior running back Jon Murray of Baldwin Wallace College (Ohio); senior defensive end Michael Nobile of Delaware Valley College (Pa.); senior wide receiver Nate Palmer of Utica College (N.Y.), senior quarterback Braxton Plunk of the University of Mount Union (Ohio); senior quarterback Jaran Roste of Bethel University (Minn.); senior offensive lineman Boomer Warren of Hardin-Simmons University (Texas); senior quarterback AJ Wingfield of Ithaca College (N.Y.); and senior defensive lineman Michael Wozniak of Saint John’s University (Minn.).
Stutzman is the third player for UW-La Crosse in the last six years to be named a semifinalist for the Gagliardi Trophy, joining wide receivers Nick Holcomb (2017) and Cole Spieker (2019). Running back John Janke (1993), quarterback Craig Kusick (1995) and wide receivers Scott Burnoski (2004) and Holcomb (2017) have been named finalists for the award.
Named the 2022 WIAC Kwik Trip Offensive Player of the Year, Stutzman helped UW-La Crosse to a share of the WIAC title this season – the 34th in program archives. The Eagles also earned a spot in the NCAA Division III playoffs. He led the team in rushing attempts (236) and yards (1,189), while finishing second in rushing touchdowns (5) to earn All-WIAC First Team accolades. Starting all 11 games in 2022, Stutzman averaged 5.0 yards per attempt and 108.1 yards per game. He led the WIAC in rushing attempts and yards. Stutzman also had 18 catches for 212 yards and one touchdown this season.
Stutzman had 24 carries for a career-high 180 yards (7.5 average) with one touchdown in UW-La Crosse’s 30-3 win at the University of Dubuque (Iowa) on Sept. 10. He was named the WIAC Kwik Trip Offensive Player of the Week after rushing for 108 yards on 21 carries and catching three passes for 67 yards and a touchdown in UW-La Crosse’s 38-35 win at No. 24-ranked UW-Oshkosh on Oct. 29.
Stutzman finished his career second in school history in career rushing yards with 3,277. He recorded at least 100-yards rushing in six games this season to give him 16 in his career, second-most in school history.
Stutzman is majoring in physical education and maintains a 3.17 grade point average.
Lewandowski joins a list of former Warhawks that have been semifinalists for the Gagliardi Trophy including: Derrick LeVake (1997); Justin Beaver (2005 and 2007); Ryan Kleppe (2006); Jeff Schebler (2009); Aaron Rusch (2010); Matt Blanchard (2011); Cole Klotz (2013); Brady Grayvold (2014); John Flood (2016); and Harry Henschler (2018). Beaver won the award in 2007.
A senior transfer, Lewandowski wrapped up his second year as a Warhawk this season. He secured All-WIAC honorable mention recognition after helping UW-Whitewater to its 39th conference title and a spot in the NCAA Division III playoffs.
In 2022, Lewandowski completed 200 of his 318 pass attempts (63.0 percent) and threw for 2,356 yards with 18 touchdowns in 11 games. He added a pair of rushing touchdowns.
His four passing touchdowns in UW-Whitewater’s win at UW-La Crosse on Oct. 1 tied the program’s single-game record. He also helped the Warhawks break the record for points in a game (79), rushing touchdowns in a game (10) and touchdowns in a game (11) in the team’s victory over UW-Stevens Point on Nov. 12.
Lewandowski, a team captain for the 2022 campaign, is a human performance major with a minor in sport management and carries a grade point average of 3.725.
The 40-member Gagliardi Trophy national selection committee reviews the credentials, ranks the candidates 1-15 and casts their votes. Fan balloting, which is available on D3football.com, accounts for the 41st ballot, and is being conducted on D3football.com for the 12th consecutive season. Fans will be permitted to cast one ballot per device, through 12 p.m. Central on Dec. 3.
The Gagliardi Trophy finalists will be announced during a live show on Dec. 7, on D3football.com. Hosts Pat Coleman and Frank Rossi will profile the finalists during the program. The 2022 Gagliardi Trophy winner will be revealed on D3football.com during the week of the NCAA Division III football national championship on Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. CT. In the lead up to the announcement of the 2022 Gagliardi Trophy winner, D3football.com and the J-Club Twitter account (@JClubSJU) will provide updates on specific dates and times of the announcement.
Nominations were submitted by colleges across the country, and the semifinalists were selected by the J-Club Board of Directors. The Gagliardi Trophy national selection committee is comprised of 18 Division III coaches (three from each NCAA Region), six Division III administrators (one from each region), 12 regional notable voters (two from each region), and eight national voters with Division III backgrounds.
No J-Club members vote as part of the national selection committee.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
We hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving yesterday. Today’s photo is from the Scholl glass plate negative collection of turn-of-the-20th-century images. This view shows the interior of a home in Whitewater, specifically the dining room with the built-in cabinet of china probably used for special occasions like a Thanksgiving dinner. It may bring to mind your own Thanksgiving experiences at your grandma’s house or old photos showing family Thanksgiving celebrations from the 20th century.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(3657GP, Whitewater Historical Society)
CBS 58 has a heartwarming story about a woman finding her dog in Darien five days after it went missing when she crashed by I-43. Per social media, a number of Whitewater residents had been following the story of the missing canine, with a team of area people having joined the search.
We recommend watching the video rather than reading the story; it will make a lot more sense that way.
Whitewater Chamber and Downtown Whitewater, Inc. invite the community and visitors to the 1st Annual Shop Small Holiday Market & Tree Lighting event.
The Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Whitewater, Inc. are happy to announce an exciting event to usher in the holiday season! They will be hosting the 1st Annual Whitewater Shop Small Holiday Market & Tree Lighting event on Saturday, November 26th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop Small Saturday is the day during shop small season that we celebrate all things local! This event will be centered in Cravath Lakefront Park at 341 S. Fremont St. with over 30 local and regional vendors and entrepreneurs set up along the lakefront near the Cravath Lakefront Community Center building.
In addition to the market, attendees can enjoy live music from local students and artists, grab a s’more at Blitzen’s Bonfire, let the kiddos write a letter to Santa and do crafts in the Little Elves Workshop & Play Area, enjoy tasty treats from three food trucks, and sip some hot cocoa or mulled wine in the Gumdrop Glugg Garden. Visitors to this festive event can also walk around downtown and enjoy a holiday tale with their family on the story stroll sponsored by the Irvin L. Young Library, visit with Santa, and ring in the holiday season with a tree lighting and high school carolers to close out the day! A full map of the event can be found here.
The Saturday after Thanksgiving is set aside each year to celebrate local businesses and many businesses in Whitewater will be offering deals and specials on this day only. The event also celebrates our local entrepreneurs by bringing local and regional vendors to Whitewater to help folks get a start on their holiday shopping. Don’t forget to visit the 12 Selfie Stations of Shop Small Saturday to be entered to WIN a basket of goodies! For more details about this event visit the Chamber’s event calendar page or follow the Facebook event page.
The Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce looks forward to seeing everyone out celebrating the season and supporting local businesses at the 1st Annual Shop Small Holiday Market and Tree Lighting! For more information about this event or anything Chamber related please contact Kellie Carper, Exec. Director at (262) 473-4005.
NOTICE OF SPRING ELECTION
City of Whitewater – Walworth & Jefferson Counties, Wisconsin.
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that at an election to be held in the City of Whitewater on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, the following offices are to be elected to succeed the present incumbents listed. The term for council member begins on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. All terms are for two years unless otherwise indicated.
Office Incumbent
Councilmember AD 1 Carol McCormick
Councilmember AD 3 Brienne Diebolt Brown
Councilmember AD 5 Greg Majkrzak
Councilmember at Large Lisa Dawsey Smith
Information concerning aldermanic district boundaries may be obtained from City Clerk Michele Smith, 312 W. Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the first day to circulate nomination papers is December 1, 2022, and the final day for filing nomination papers is 5:00 p.m., on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, in the office of the city clerk.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that if a primary is necessary, the primary will be held on Tuesday, February 21, 2023.
Acceptable Photo ID will be required to vote at this election. If you do not have a photo ID you may obtain a free ID for voting from the Division of Motor Vehicles.
Done in the City of Whitewater on November 1, 2022.
Michele R. Smith, Clerk
(262) 473-0102
msmith@whitewater-wi.gov
Editor’s note: The photo on the homepage is by Lynn Binnie.
Brian Turley, DDS, of Rock River Community Clinic was chosen as the recipient of the 2022 Wisconsin Dental Association (WDA) Pyramid of Pride Community Outreach award for his exemplary work within the local community dental clinic.
“Brian’s service to the community is embedded within his practice and care, making him an exceptional model for the greater dental community,” states Olivia Nichols, M.S., CEO/Executive Director of Rock River Community Clinic. “For over 15 years, Dr. Turley has been a constant at our dental clinic and a source of mentorship and laughter – for both our staff and patients. He models what it means to walk the talk of service to one’s community.”
The WDA Pyramid of Pride awards are given annually to member dentists, organizations, and others who have demonstrated exemplary commitment, service, and achievement in regard to dentistry and the oral health of Wisconsin residents. The recipients are chosen by the WDA Board of Trustees based on the nominations submitted.
Dr. Turley was nominated by another local dentist, Mike Bender, DDS. Bender submitted a nomination form and letter indicating why Turley was deserving of the honor. Bender’s nomination noted Turley’s commitment to providing equitable dental care to his communities, having served as a key stakeholder in the creation and implementation of the original community dental clinic in 2005. Bender also highlighted the endless hours of donated time and service Turley has contributed to the clinic, as well as his efforts to recruit other providers to support and join the cause.
“Brian has done so much for the people of Jefferson and Rock County ever since he started his practice in Jefferson in the 1990’s,” states Dr. Bender. “To be a father, spouse, grandfather, full time dentist AND to develop a community dental clinic on the side is something one can only do with great passion and desire to serve others.”
Dr. Turley was insistent that the award was a team effort, extending credit to the entire dental team – past and present – at Rock River Community Clinic for their community outreach efforts.
“I am honored to receive this community award from WDA and am humbled by the nomination support from Dr. Bender,” Dr. Turley states. “But the effort, progress, and impact at our dental clinic is accomplished through a team effort. Many people have taken part in building this clinic and each employee/volunteer/organization continues to fulfill their role, and beyond, with a passion and dedication towards helping others in our area. Our team effort is what makes this work possible.”
Dr. Turley is the owner and lead dentist at Smiles by Turley in Jefferson and continues to serve at Rock River Community Clinic every Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“There are an increasing number of families without access to dental care because of insurance rates outside their control. Brian’s commitment to serving these families and providing high quality dental care has persisted through many changes and challenges. His skill, time, and leadership can’t be overstated and has been absolutely instrumental to me and to RRCC,” Nichols adds.
On behalf of Dr. Turley, Nichols received the honor at the WDA House of Delegates awards dinner on Friday, November 11, and presented it to Dr. Turley on Tuesday, November 15 with the full dental team.
For more information about Rock River Community Clinic, please contact 262.472.6839 or visit www.rockrivercommunityclinic.org
Rock River Community Clinic (RRCC) provides comprehensive and cost-effective health care services to ensure all community members have access to the care they need. Serving families in Jefferson, Dodge, and parts of Walworth County, RRCC includes three medical clinics located in Whitewater, Watertown, and Jefferson, and one dental clinic located in Fort Atkinson. Referrals for behavioral health care services will be available in Whitewater and Watertown locations soon.
At RRCC, all community members are welcome and accepted, regardless of ability to pay, with discounted prices for patients who are uninsured or underinsured (high deductible plans). RRCC also provides care coordination services to help patients overcome barriers to accessing healthcare (e.g., transportation), and helps to coordinate referrals. Bilingual staff (Spanish & English) are available to support patients and their families. By increasing access to health care services, offering care at affordable costs, and assisting with healthcare navigation, RRCC works to create a healthier, more equitable, community. For clinic hours and directions, visit www.rockrivercommunityclinic.org
Obituaries
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
Entered God’s Kingdom on Friday, April 3, 2026, age 65. Donna is survived by her cousins, other family and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents James and Lois (Michels) Lyons. Donna was raised in the Church of Nazarene, with her father being the assistant pastor. Religion was very important to Donna. Donna enjoyed working with the students of the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, where she resided. Donna also loved to travel, visiting France, Italy, and all around the United States. She also loved to paint, cross-stitch, knit, and crochet. She also loved collecting recipes and trying … Read more
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