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This week, the Whippet Wrestlers had a busy couple of days being in action on Thursday night, December 8, and again on Saturday, December 10.
On Thursday night, the Whippets traveled to East Troy to participate in a dual meet with Clinton and East Troy, our first two dual meets of the season. The team wrestled very well in both duals coming out on top 60-12 against Clinton and 47-36 against East Troy. Clinton had been down over the years number wise, but the new coach is doing a very nice job getting students out, and they had many competitive matches. The Whippets wrestled well in all the matches to seal wins in many of them. Clinton also provided our JV members with some good matches as well. Whitewater has 44 student-athletes on the team, so it can be difficult getting good matches for all the students. Many had the opportunity on Thursday and performed well.
In the next dual meet against East Troy, it was typical East Troy vs Whitewater fashion. Three of the last four times these two teams have met it has come down to criteria after it finished in a tie. This year could very easily have been the same; however, Whitewater was able to wrestle with grit and win the swing matches. The coaches were proud of the performance of the team after one of their teammates went down with an injury. They did not know what was wrong but were concerned for their teammate. They kept wrestling hard to finish it out. One of the key swing matches came at 126 when CJ Tomomitsu battled back after losing the majority of the match but was able to secure a pin in the 3rd period which created a huge change in events for the dual meet.
On Saturday, the team hosted a 12-team invitational. This year was the most competitive it has been in the 9 years Whitewater has hosted it. There were many very competitive matches throughout the day, and in the end, Burlington won the tournament with Riverdale coming in second place. Whitewater wrestled well during the day and finished in 4th place. The coaching staff was happy with this finish. We were shorthanded in a couple of weight classes to take care of injuries as the focus is the big picture, not a one-day event.
Unfortunately, the team did not have any finalist this year, but they did have four finish in 3rd place. Jason Villegas, CJ Tomomitsu, Connor Friend, and Payton Lyon all had one loss on the day, but each finished 4-1 to claim 3rd place. Each of the losses were to extremely tough competitors but they all did well in the loss. It is difficult to come back from a loss, but each of them did so to win their last match of the day.
Alongside the boys’ competition there were also brackets set up for the girls to compete in. The women’s wrestling team has some very nice numbers with some new additions in the last week as well. Whitewater had three competing on Saturday. Khloe Meyer has not found success in the win column; however, she is showing much improvement each time she competes. Lauren Buehler wrestled well, pinning her first opponent then losing in the championship in a well wrestled match where she got out of position and took the loss. Lauren finished in 2nd place.
Ashly Xochipa had a great day going 4-0 and bringing home the gold. She pinned all four of her opponents. In one, she was behind in a close match but got a big reversal to the girl’s back for the pin. Ashly improved her record to 9-1 on the year with the wins on Saturday.
Against East Troy and Clinton the ladies also had some very good competition. Coming away with wins for the girls were Lauren Buehler, Stephanie Wence, and Ashly Xochipa who had 3 wins on the night. This was a great performance for the ladies’ team.
Article Submitted by John Schimming
Whitewater High School Head Wrestling Coach
jschimming@wwusd.org
Photo Courtesy of Bob Mischka
The Dance Factory and Lake Geneva Symphony present Tchaikovsky’s popular ballet, The Nutcracker, written in 1892, on Saturday, December 17 at 1:00 p.m. Tickets ($30-35) are available here.
EMMANUEL RAMIREZ. Born and raised in Mexico, Emmanuel is a dance teacher, dancer, actor, and choreographer. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Dance from Universidad de Guadalajara and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Drama from Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes, Mexico. Emmanuel has danced for various professional companies throughout Mexico, such as Compañía de Danza Clasica y Neoclasica de Jalisco, Compañía de Danza Clásica de Quintana Roo, Danza UNAM, Atelier Ballet Teatro Contemporaneo and Guadalajara en Movimiento, where he danced choreography pieces of Mark Godden, Nazira Yakubova, Katia Garza, Rosario Murillo, Dalirys Valladares, Sergio Vicencio, Arcadio Carbonell, Diego Vazquez, Raul Fernandez, among others. Emmanuel moved to Chicago in 2016 where he’s performed annually in both Ballet Legere’s and Ruth Page’s Nutcracker and danced as a company member of Elements Contemporary Ballet. As a Teacher, he has worked for Maywood Fine Arts, Ballet Legere, Dance On Broadway, The Rooted Space, Kenwood Ballet School, and Chicago Public Schools. As an actor he played the role Iago from Othelo for Repertorio Latino Theater Company, Sharks’ ensemble in West Side Story at Marriott Theater, and Ramon in Zorro the Musical at Musical Theater Works. He recently earned his Pilates Certification through Kinetic Axis studying under Steven Winterstein and is certified nationally through the Pilates Method Alliance.
NICOLE VOLPE. A Chicagoland local, Nicole has had an eclectic performance career. After graduating from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN in 2016 with a degree in Psychology, she returned home to Chicagoland to study at Lou Conte Dance Studio’s Scholarship Program. Before launching her career as a freelance dancer, she also trained at Ruth Page, Hubbard Street Professional Program, and ABT Summer Intensives, among others. In Chicago, she had the opportunity to dance as a season soloist with Mandala South Asian Arts, Ballerina #1 on FOX’s Empire, with Alma Dance School in their productions of Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty, and as the Sugar Plum Fairy in Tina Hansen’s Nutcracker in 2019. Most recently, she had the opportunity to perform in the ensemble and Mistress alternate in Drury Lane Theater’s production of Evita. She is now living in Boston, MA with her husband and three cats, where she runs Nicole Marie Photography. She continues to dance in Boston, and is excited to be dancing with City Ballet of Boston, collaborating with Harvard Ballet Company, and exploring her own choreographic work with the thriving Boston dance community. She is thrilled to be returning to dance with The Dance Factory’s Nutcracker!
Editor’s note: The following announcement was posted by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater on December 9.
Deans Hayes, Goza to retire in 2023
Eileen M. Hayes, dean of the College of Arts and Communication, and Franklin Goza, dean of the College of Letters and Sciences, will retire from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater next year, they announced.
“It has been an honor to work with Dean Hayes and Dean Goza. Their commitment to the university and our mission of transforming lives is something I have been able to observe on a daily basis,” said Robin Fox, interim provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. “Over the years, I’ve seen their strong support of their colleges, administrative teams, faculty and staff, their commitment to shared governance and their focus on students through offering high-quality, rigorous programs. Their retirements are well deserved and I wish them the very best. On a personal note, I will miss their thoughtful counsel, which I have often turned to for guidance.”
Hayes joined the Warhawk family in August of 2017.
“Dean Hayes, a noted scholar of Black music and LGBTQ community formation, has an impressive vitae. Of special note is her role in the College Music Society, which is the largest professional music society for the multi-disciplines,” Fox said. “She is the immediate past-president of the organization. This level of leadership is significant and helps to continue to elevate UW-Whitewater and the College of Arts and Communication on a national level.”
In a message to the college, Hayes remarked, “As I have said on numerous occasions, it is a pleasure to join you in furthering the education of our students. We have a marvelous faculty, academic staff, and university staff; the list of accomplishments of Music, Art and Design, Communication, Theatre/Dance, and Media Arts and Game Development is long. Daily, I marvel at my good fortune at having had the opportunity to work with you.”
Goza began his leadership role at UW-Whitewater as associate dean in August of 2013, and was hired as dean in June of 2019.
“Dean Goza’s work at UW-Whitewater has resulted in new majors, minors, certificates and emphases,” Fox said. “I would also draw attention to his support for the development of two new departments under his leadership — Computer Science and World Languages and Cultures. This type of support for the members of the college is just one example of Dean Goza’s strong and responsive leadership.”
In a message to the college, Goza remarked, “I want to thank all of you for everything that you do to make this a great college. It has been an honor and a privilege to work with you and to serve as one of the college leaders during the past 10 years. It is truly a bittersweet moment for me as I thoroughly enjoy what I do, especially being able to interact on a regular basis with such dedicated and inspirational individuals like you.”
Hayes’ retirement is effective March 13, and Goza will retire June 30.
The national search for the College of Letters and Sciences dean has already begun and the national search for the dean of the College of Arts and Communication will be launched early in the spring semester.
Many caregivers have mixed feelings about holidays. They may have happy memories of the past, but they also may worry about the extra demands that holidays make on their time and energy.
Here are some ways to balance holiday-related activities while taking care of yourself and a loved one with dementia:
- Safety first. Be sure holiday decorations are secured, cords are not loose and traffic areas are clear.
- Simplify, simplify, simplify! Your everyday life requires much time and energy. Don’t add a lot of stress. Think of simple pleasures like taking a walk or taking a drive to view decorations. Prepare a special food together but keep it simple.
- Take care of yourself. As difficult as it is to find time for rest, regular meals and exercise, try your best. Enlist friends to sit with your loved one.
- Set your own limits. You do not have to live up to the expectations of friends or relatives. Your situation is different now.
- Involve the person with Alzheimer’s in simple holiday preparations, or have him or her observe your preparations. Participating may give the person the pleasure of helping and the fun of anticipating and reminiscing.
- Simplify meals and decorating. You don’t have to do everything you used to do. Find one tradition that is not too demanding and emphasize its connection with the past.
- If visitors are desired, limit them and find a time when your loved one is at his or her best.
- If your person with dementia gets upset or overstimulated, have some quiet distractions in your playbook, such as looking at photos or going for a walk.
- Make sure there is a quiet space where the person can rest and have time to recharge.
- Try to maintain your daily routine as much as possible and avoid noise, loud conversations, loud music, lighting that is too bright or too dark, and having too much rich food or drink (especially alcohol).
- If you receive invitations to events that your loved one cannot attend, consider going yourself. Ask a friend or family member to spend time with the person while you’re out.
Happy Holidays to all!
This article is submitted by Dementia Friendly Community Initiative, a program of Whitewater Seniors in the Park.
https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/273/Seniors-In-the-Park
More Holiday resources for caregivers and their loved ones:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/holiday-hints-alzheimers-caregivers
The Whitewater Girls’ Basketball Team traveled to Jefferson for a conference game Friday night. Teamwork, solid defense, and confidence were all contributors to the win for the Whippets.
It was a battle all the way though the game. We were able to pull away, knocking down clutch free throws at the end. With just over a minute remaining, Cali Kopecky missed a free throw but got her own rebound and knocked down a 2-pointer to put us up by 6. Ashlyn Enke answered back with a 3 pointer, putting the score 36-33. Clutch free throws were scored by Kilar (2), Grosinske (1), and Amundson (1) to solidify the win.
Cali Kopecky led the Whippets with 12 points and 6 rebounds. Cali Grosinske finished with 11 points and 7 steals. Kindyl Kilar added 10 points and 6 rebounds.
Final score: 43-36
Article Submitted by Kristen Lippens
Whitewater High School Head Girls’ Basketball Coach
klippens@wwusd.org
File Photo Courtesy of Bob Mischka
All photos are courtesy of Tom Ganser, in no particular order. The Parade of Lights on December 2 was powered by Generac.
“Christmas Oranges”
Tuesday, December 13, 1 p.m.
(Drama/Family) rated PG; 1 hour, 41 minutes (2012)
Share a slice of Christmas sweetened with family and friendship in a poignant story based on a classic holiday tale. Starring Edward Herrmann and Nancy Stafford.
Editor’s note: The following announcement was received from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater will celebrate the achievements of its graduates at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, as proud families and friends gather for the 2022 December commencement ceremony.
Approximately 630 students will cross the stage to receive their degrees. The ceremony, about two hours long and presided over by Interim Chancellor John Chenoweth, will be held at Kachel Fieldhouse in the Williams Center.
This year’s commencement speaker is Jen Rulon. Since earning a Bachelor of Science in biology and a minor in psychology in 1993, she has embarked on a series of accomplishments that include working as a marine animal trainer and behaviorist at SeaWorld, becoming a 15-time Ironman Triathlete, and sharing, through her brand JenRulon.com, inspiring messages to people from all walks of life on the TEDx Stage and through publications like Triathlete Magazine, Runners World and The New York Times.
The student speaker is Jacquelyn Schimke, who is earning her Master of Science in Education in special education–professional development, with autism specialist, transition specialist and applied behavioral analysis certifications. In May 2021, she received her Bachelor of Science in Education with an emphasis on special education and cross-categorical licenses in intellectual disabilities and learning disabilities.
The ceremony will recognize 63 undergraduates from the College of Arts and Communication, 164 from the College of Business and Economics, 164 from the College of Education and Professional Studies and 130 from the College of Letters and Sciences and five degrees that are not college-specific, for a total of 525 undergraduate degrees. The School of Graduate Studies will award 104 degrees, including 98 master’s degrees and 6 doctorates.
The graduating class includes 5 international students, 41 military veterans and 134 nontraditional students, defined as undergraduate students who are 25 years of age or older. In addition, 79 self-identified students with disabilities will receive degrees.
Commencement will be broadcast live online by UWWTV, the university television station. Access to the livestream will be posted at uww.edu/commencement.
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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