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Today is Tuesday, May 12, 2026
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The Whippet Wrestlers hosted quite an exciting dual Tuesday night, January 14, hosting Jefferson. There was a full house and lots of excitement and yelling in the stands. Coach Schimming stated, it’s “always fun to be a part of a good dual meet.”
The dual came down to the last match of the night, which is always the one people remember, however a lot of things happen in the previous 13 so we never say it was the last match; it was a culmination. When the excitement and the yelling came to a climax our Whippet boys ended up on the short end, so the Whippets will have a share of the Valley Conference Title. Please congratulate the wrestlers when you see them. It hurt last night but, “We don’t lose, we Learn.”
On Wednesday, January 21 our girls’ team will take the mat and have two duals, Madison Memorial and Big Foot. Come on out and support the girls’ wrestling team with matches starting at 6.
Article and Photo Submitted by John Schimming
Whitewater High School Head Wrestling Coach
jschimming@wwusd.org
After spending the morning on Monday, January 12 completing some standardized testing, Whitewater High School students had the option to spend their afternoon volunteering in the building or throughout the community. Roughly 175 students signed up to volunteer their time. Destinations included the Community Space, Fairhaven, and all three elementary schools as well as the middle school. Students who remained on campus to volunteer did some deep cleaning, painting, and organizing of storage areas among other projects.
Walworth County and United Way of Walworth County Announce Seventh Round of Funding for Local Nonprofits and Veterans Organizations
For this round of funding, Walworth County has earmarked $161,900 for the United Way to distribute to local 501(c)(3) nonprofit and 501(c)19 Veterans service agencies. Eligible agencies can request between $1,000 and $9,000. Applications are due on January 31, 2026. The goal is to issue the awards in early March. If all dollars are awarded, this will be the final round of funding.
Applications are available at https://unitedwaywalworth.org/arpa-grant. Qualifying 501(c)(3) or 501(c)19 agencies interested in applying may also contact UWWC CEO Brian Holt for an application at (262) 374-4474.
“As we enter this seventh and likely final round of ARPA funding, we’re proud of the impact these grants have had in strengthening local nonprofits and Veterans organizations over the past several years,” says United Way of Walworth County CEO Brian Holt. “This program has provided critical resources to help agencies serve our community, and we encourage all eligible organizations to take advantage of this last opportunity to apply.”
A board of United Way of Walworth County committee members will select the grant recipients. Organizations with 501(c)3 and 501(c)19 tax-exempt status may apply. These organizations must also maintain their principal place of business in Walworth County, conduct business in Walworth County, and serve people within Walworth County.
This project is being supported in whole or in part by federal award number FAIN #SLFRP 2146 awarded to Walworth County by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
UW-Stevens Point undergraduates honored for scholastic achievement
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point honored more than 2,872 undergraduate students for attaining high grade point averages during the fall semester of the 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time undergraduates who earned grade points of 3.90 to 4.0 (4.0 equals straight A) are given the highest honors designation. High honor citations go to those with grade point averages from 3.75 to 3.89 and honor recognition is accorded to those with grade point averages from 3.50 to 3.74.
Personalized certificates of scholastic achievement are sent to those who earned highest honors distinction.
Students who received honors include:
Whitewater, WI
Wyatt Anderson, Honors
Giovanni Anello, High Honors
Grace Wood, Honors
City of Whitewater Conducts Business Retention & Expansion Visit with HEXPOL – Whitewater
The City of Whitewater Community Development Department recently completed a Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) visit at HEXPOL’s Whitewater facility, continuing the City’s ongoing efforts to support local employers and strengthen the community’s economic base. Mason Becker, the City of Whitewater’s Community Development Director, and Karin Silvius, Executive Director of the Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce, met with Adrienne Weber, Human Resources Manager at HEXPOL’s Whitewater facility. The visit focused on workforce needs, operations, and the company’s long-term commitment to the Whitewater community.
HEXPOL currently employs approximately 40 people at its Whitewater location and is actively hiring for six positions. The facility operates two daily production shifts, along with a third shift dedicated to maintenance, and is a UFCW union facility. Most employees live in Whitewater or the surrounding area, reinforcing the company’s strong local roots. “BRE visits are an important way for the City to stay connected with our existing employers and understand how we can support their success,” said Mason Becker.
“HEXPOL is an international company that is a valued manufacturing employer in Whitewater, providing stable jobs and actively investing in its workforce.” Adrienne Weber emphasized the company’s focus on people and community. “Our goal is to be a preferred employer in the Whitewater area,” Weber said. “We’re proud that the majority of our employees come from the local community, and we continue to focus on creating a safe, respectful, and rewarding workplace. We are always looking for ways to
further partner with the city. ”
Karin Silvius noted the importance of companies like HEXPOL to the City’s economic health. “Employers who offer quality jobs and career opportunities are critical to Whitewater’s long-term vitality,” Silvius said. “HEXPOL’s continued hiring and investment demonstrate confidence in both their workforce and the community.”
About HEXPOL
HEXPOL is a global leader in polymer compounding and engineered rubber materials, serving customers in a wide range of industries including automotive, construction, industrial, and consumer products. Headquartered in Sweden, HEXPOL operates manufacturing facilities around the world, with a strong emphasis on quality, safety, innovation, and sustainability. The Whitewater facility plays an important role in the company’s North American operations.
The City of Whitewater’s Community Development Department, in conjunction with the Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce, will continue BRE visits throughout 2026, meeting with local businesses including manufacturers, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and other organizations to identify opportunities, address challenges, and support sustainable economic growth within the City of Whitewater.
Chamberlain University and SSM Health Open Enrollment for Wisconsin Aspiring Nurse Program Partnership offers tuition support and guaranteed employment pathway as Wisconsin faces sustained nursing shortage Chamberlain University and SSM Health are offering a new pathway to nursing careers with tuition support and guaranteed jobs, as enrollment opens January 5, 2026, for the Chamberlain Aspiring Nurse Program in partnership with SSM Health. This partnership offers students a direct, employment-focused pathway by combining tuition support with immersive clinical experience at SSM Health facilities and the opportunity for employment upon graduation and passing the NCLEX exam. In return, students commit to joining SSM Health’s workforce. Through the program, prospective students in Wisconsin earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree online from Chamberlain University. Wisconsin faces a significant gap between nursing workforce needs and available education opportunities, according to the Wisconsin Hospital Association’s 2025 Health Care Workforce Report[1]. While the state’s registered nurse workforce grew 10% between 2020 and 2022, that growth couldn’t keep pace with demand. With tens of thousands of qualified applicants turned away from nursing schools nationwide each year, the Aspiring Nurse Program addresses this gap by creating accessible pathways for residents of Wisconsin and northern Illinois who live within 50 miles of an SSM Health facility. [Examples: SSM St. Mary’s Hospitals in Madison and Janesville] Program Details: Enrollment Opens: January 5, 2026 Program: Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through Chamberlain University Benefits: Tuition support, clinical training at SSM Health facilities, pathway to RN licensure and employment at SSM Health Commitment: Students agree to join SSM Health’s nursing workforce upon completion “This program is more than a solution to the nursing shortage—it’s a bold reimagining of how we grow and support the next generation of nurses,” said Amy Wilson, DNP, Chief Nurse Executive for SSM Health. “By investing in education and clinical experience from day one, we’re not only preparing students for success, we’re strengthening the future of patient care across our communities.” How to Apply: Prospective students can learn more about the program and enroll at chamberlain.edu/aspiring-nurse-program/wisconsin [1] Wisconsin Hospital Association 2025 Health Care Workforce Report: https://www.wha.org/data-publications/reports/workforce/2025 About Chamberlain University Chamberlain University, an Adtalem Global Education (NYSE: ATGE) institution, educates, empowers, and emboldens a diverse community of healthcare professionals who seek to advance the health of people, families, communities, and nations. Chamberlain has the largest school of nursing in the U.S., with both on-campus and online degree programs. Chamberlain is comprised of the College of Nursing and the College of Health Professions, offering a variety of bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs. Chamberlain University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Visit Chamberlain.edu for more information, and follow on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. About SSM Health Nationally recognized for quality and innovation, SSM Health is a Catholic, not-for-profit, fully integrated health system working to advance health equity and empower all people to achieve their full potential. With care delivery sites in Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma and Wisconsin, SSM Health provides convenient access to high-quality community-based services as well as world-class academic medicine, clinical trials and research studies. The organization’s footprint includes hospitals, physician offices, outpatient and virtual care services, senior care, comprehensive home care and hospice services, a fully transparent pharmacy benefit company, a health insurance company and an accountable care organization. As one of the largest employers in every community it serves, the organization’s 40,000 team members and 15,000 providers are dedicated to fulfilling SSM Health’s Mission: “Through our exceptional health care services, we reveal the healing presence of God.” For more information, visit ssmhealth.com or find us on Facebook and LinkedIn. |
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Unites Lives.
KENOSHA, WI – Carthage College recognizes Alexander Clarksen from Whitewater for their academic achievement and being named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List.
Dean’s List honors are accorded to Carthage students who achieve a minimum 3.5 grade-point average while carrying at least 12 letter-graded credits in a given semester.
About Carthage
Carthage College is breaking records with its largest enrollment ever. Founded in 1847, Carthage blends the best liberal arts traditions with innovative programs that shape careers, hands-on learning that fuels discovery, and faculty mentorship that drives student success – all on a stunning Lake Michigan campus in Kenosha, Wisconsin, midway between Chicago and Milwaukee.
Grow with us: www.carthage.edu
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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