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Editor’s note: The following information was provided by the office of the governor.
| Gov. Evers Proclaims September 25 “Bob Uecker Day” |
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today announced that he has proclaimed Sat., Sep. 25, 2021, as “Bob Uecker Day” in Wisconsin. The governor made this proclamation to celebrate the legacy of Bob Uecker in Major League Baseball and to recognize his 50th anniversary as the voice of the Milwaukee Brewers. “As a lifelong Brewers fan, some of my favorite baseball memories over the years have been narrated by Bob Uecker,” said Gov. Evers. “Bob is a homegrown Milwaukeean who has tremendous pride and love for the sport, his hometown, and his home state, and is more than deserving of this statewide day of celebration of his career, legacy, and achievements.” “For generations, Bob has brought the ballpark experience into the homes of Brewers fans throughout the state, and his ability to create that magic is unrivaled. Bob is more than an icon in the state of Wisconsin; he is one of the world’s great entertainers and personalities,” said Rick Schlesinger, Brewers President-Business Operations. “We are fortunate to call him one of our own as we celebrate his 50th anniversary as the voice of the Brewers.” Text of the governor’s “Bob Uecker Day” proclamation is available below. A copy of the proclamation is available here. WHEREAS; born in Milwaukee on January 26, 1934, Bob Uecker is an icon in the world of professional sports, with a long and storied career in Major League Baseball (MLB), both as a player in the 1960s and as one of our nation’s preeminent sportscasters over the past 50 years; and WHEREAS; the first Milwaukee native to sign with the Milwaukee Braves, Bob played for the club’s Northern League affiliate, the Eau Claire Bears, and Pioneer League affiliate, the Boise Braves, beginning in 1956, and made his MLB debut as a catcher for the Braves on April 13, 1962; and WHEREAS; after one season with the Milwaukee Braves, Bob was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he helped bring the team to their 1964 World Series win against the New York Yankees and, perhaps more famously, entertained his teammates by shagging fly balls with a tuba ahead of the series’ second game; and WHEREAS; Bob was later traded to the Philadelphia Phillies, before returning to the Braves—who had since moved to Atlanta—for the last season of his career as a player; and WHEREAS; upon his retirement from playing in the MLB, Bob returned to his hometown of Milwaukee and, after a brief stint as a scout for the city’s new team, the Milwaukee Brewers, he began his new career in sports broadcasting in September 1971; and WHEREAS; as the voice of the Milwaukee Brewers for 50 years and counting, calling play-by-play action for our state’s premier professional baseball franchise, Bob has ingrained himself into the day-to-day life of baseball fans in Wisconsin and across the United States; and WHEREAS; Bob’s notorious sense of humor and extraordinary abilities behind the microphone have made him a legendary and beloved figure in professional baseball, and among the numerous awards and accolades he has received, he has been named Wisconsin Sportscaster of the Year on five separate occasions, been inducted into both the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame and the Radio Hall of Fame, and been awarded the Ford. C. Frick Award for major contributions in baseball by a broadcaster; and WHEREAS; affectionately known as “Mr. Baseball,” a nickname given to him by the late Johnny Carson, Bob has also led a remarkable career in entertainment as a comedian and performer in movies and TV, alongside unforgettable appearances on The Tonight Show and in the iconic “Miller Lite All Stars” advertising campaign; and WHEREAS; today, in recognition of his 66 years in Major League Baseball, half a century with the Milwaukee Brewers, and innumerable contributions to the history and culture of professional baseball in our country, the state of Wisconsin joins baseball fans in Wisconsin and across the United States in celebrating Bob Uecker; NOW, THEREFORE, I, Tony Evers, Governor of the State of Wisconsin, do hereby proclaim September 25, 2021, as “BOB UECKER DAY” throughout the State of Wisconsin and I commend this observance to all our state’s residents. |
Editor’s note: The following information was provided by UW-Whitewater.
Students at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater have reported a 70% COVID-19 vaccination rate as of Sept. 24 — reaching the milestone five weeks ahead of the recently extended UW System deadline of Oct. 31. Vaccinated UW-Whitewater students are now eligible for the UW System drawing of 70 scholarships valued at $7,000 each that will take place later in the fall. UW-Whitewater students who have not yet been vaccinated or reported their vaccination can still be eligible for the scholarship drawing, as long as they complete the vaccination series and report their record by Oct. 31.
“Congratulations to our Warhawks for achieving the 70% vaccination rate. This is a university-wide accomplishment, and I’d like to extend my thanks and appreciation to all the students, faculty and staff who have participated in our vaccination efforts,” said Jim Henderson, interim chancellor. “We also received generous support from alumni and donors to fund weekly $500 drawings, totaling an additional $20,000 in vaccine incentives.”
Employees, including faculty and staff, report a 91% vaccination rate. All of these figures are based on vaccination records submitted by students, faculty and staff to UW-Whitewater and verified by staff.
“From the beginning of the pandemic, the UW-Whitewater community has prioritized the wellbeing of the entire Warhawk family and that helped us chart a successful path through this challenging time,” Henderson said. “Our efforts do not stop at this milestone. I strongly encourage students, faculty and staff who have not yet done so to get vaccinated if they are able, and to report it to UW-Whitewater as soon as possible.”
Banner note: The following vaccination rates were reported by the UW System as of September 22. On September 24, UW-Oshkosh and UW-Whitewater both reported having achieved the 70% level.
UW-Madison: 93%
UW-Milwaukee: 81%
UW-La Crosse: 75%
UW-Eau Claire: 74%
UW-Whitewater: 69%
UW-Oshkosh: 66%
UW-Stout: 65%
UW-River Falls: 61%
UW-Green Bay: 58%
UW-Superior: 51%
UW-Platteville: 49%
UW-Stevens Point: 49%
UW-Parkside: 41%
Starting this Saturday, the Wisconsin National Guard is returning to Jefferson County to help boost access to testing for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
PCR testing will be available at the Jefferson County Health Department every Saturday from Sept. 25 to Dec. 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Jefferson County Health Department is located at 1541 Annex Road, Jefferson.
Pre-registration at https://register.covidconnect.wi.gov is recommended, but not required. Anyone 12 months of age or older is eligible for testing.
County health officials say that persons with any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 should get tested, regardless of vaccination status. Those who get tested because they have symptoms or were potentially exposed to the virus should stay away from others pending test results and follow the advice of their health-care provider or a public health professional.
The following individuals should get tested:
• People who have symptoms of COVID-19.
• People who have had a known exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• People who are fully vaccinated should get tested three to five days after exposure, and wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until they receive a negative test result.
• People who are not fully vaccinated should quarantine and be tested immediately after being identified, and, if negative, tested again in five to seven days after last exposure or immediately if symptoms develop during quarantine.
• People not fully vaccinated with COVID-19 vaccine who are prioritized for expanded community screening for COVID-19.
• People not fully vaccinated with COVID-19 vaccine who have been asked or referred to get testing by their school, workplace, healthcare provider, state, tribal, or local health department.
People who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past three months and recovered, as long as they do not develop new symptoms, do not need to get tested after a known exposure to COVID-19.
Health officials remind the public that COVID-19 vaccines are very effective at preventing illness, hospitalization and death.
“Wisconsin surveillance data clearly support this and show the surge in COVID-19 cases continues to be driven by cases among people who are not fully vaccinated,” said Jefferson County epidemiologist Samroz Jakvani. “Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community from COVID-19.”
To find a COVID-19 vaccination site, visit www.vaccines.gov, text your zip code to 438829, or call 211.
People also may call (844) 684-1064 or (800) 232-0233.
Many pharmacies (Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, or your local pharmacy chain) might offer walk-in vaccinations. Call ahead to ensure availability.
Editor’s note: The following information was provided by the Young Auditorium.
Whitewater’s premier performing arts facility prepares for a full schedule of LIVE in-person events.
The time is here! With an exciting new season about to begin, tickets are NOW on sale for
all Young Auditorium 2021-2022 season performances. Join us for live concerts, comedy shows, professional
theatre, family friendly entertainment and more as Whitewater’s premier performing arts center returns with an
amazing performance lineup.
Young Auditorium season highlights include a side-splitting comedy show from Wisconsin’s own Charlie
Berens, and the triumphant return of a Young Auditorium favorite, the Church Basement Ladies. With
additional performances by rock supergroup The Hit Men, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers (not peppers), the
National Players Theatre and more…there truly is something for everyone. There’s even a performance by
America’s Got Talent finalists Catapult: Magic Shadows and That Golden Girls Show, an adults-only
salute to the classic television show…using puppets!
To purchase your tickets TODAY, or for a complete listing of season performances including dates, times, and
ticket prices, please visit the Young Auditorium website at www.youngauditorium.com.
• The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra performance scheduled for October 2nd has transitioned from a
ticketed event to a MEMBER EXCLUSIVE concert. This event will not be open to the general public.
• The EmiSunshine performance originally scheduled for October 7th has been postponed. A new date will be announced shortly.
Social distancing measures are currently in place for all performances. Please visit the War Hawks Are Back! website,
which outlines operating practices for the UW-Whitewater campus. Modifications of these practices should be anticipated. UW-Whitewater will continue to use information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the State of Wisconsin, county health departments and the University of Wisconsin System to guide the decision-making processes across campuses. Banner note: As is indicated on the above website, currently facial coverings are required at the auditorium as part of the UW-W campus. Ticketholders should plan to check the website for possible changes before each performance.
Young Auditorium 2021-2022 Season-At-A-Glance
MARQUEE PERFORMANCES
The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra – Member Exclusive Concert – Saturday, October 2
Catapult: Magic Shadows – Wednesday, November 3, 2021 – 7:30pm
Charlie Berens – Saturday, November 6, 2021 – 7:30pm
Griffin Theatre: Letters Home – Tuesday, November 9, 2021 – 7:30pm
Lightwire Theater: A Very Electric Christmas – Sunday, December 12, 2021 – 3:00pm & 7:00pm
Mamma Mia! Sing Along Film – Saturday, January 22, 2022 – 3:00pm
John Mueller’s Winter Dance Party – Friday, February 11, 2022 – 7:30pm
Church Basement Ladies: 20th Anniversary Tour – Sunday, February 27, 2022 – 2:00pm & 6:00pm
Red Hot Chilli Pipers – Thursday, March 31, 2022 – 7:30pm
That Golden Girls Show – Sunday, April 10, 2022 – 7:30pm
Borealis Dance: id.ego – Tuesday, April 12, 2022 – 7:30pm
National Players Theatre: A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Tuesday, April 19, 2022 – 7:30pm
National Players Theatre: A Raisin In The Sun – Wednesday, April 20, 2022 – 7:30pm
The Hit Men – Saturday, April 30, 2022 – 7:30pm
Emi Sunshine – Rescheduled Date TBD
FAMILY SHOWS
Magic Morgan & Lilliana – Saturday, October 9, 2021 – 3:00pm
The BFG (Big Friendly Giant) – Sunday, November 14, 2021 – 3:00pm
Florentine Children’s Opera: Hansel & Gretel – Sunday, January 23, 2022 – 3:00pm
Missoula Children’s Theatre Residency & Show – Saturday, February 5, 2022 – 2:00pm
Family Fun Day – Saturday, February 12, 2022 – 1:00pm
School House Rock LIVE! – Friday, February 18, 2022 – 6:30pm
The Very Hungry Caterpillar – Saturday, April 23, 2022 – 3:00pm
Once again, tickets for all Young Auditorium 2021-2022 performances can be purchased online at
http://www.youngauditorium.com. Tickets will also be available by phone (262-472-2222) or in-person or at the
main box office located in the Greenhill Center of the Arts atrium on the UW-Whitewater campus.
UW Whitewater Ticket Services
950 West Main Street – located inside the Greenhill Center of the Arts –
(262) 472-2222
(Hours: Monday – Friday 9:30am – 3pm)
| Editor’s note: The following information was provided by the office of the governor. Gov. Evers Orders Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Navy Fireman First Class Kenneth E. Doernenburg Who Lost His Life During the Attack on Pearl Harbor |
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today signed Executive Order #133 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Sat., Sept. 25, 2021, in honor of Navy Fireman First Class Kenneth E. Doernenburg, who lost his life during the attack on Pearl Harbor. “As Navy Fireman First Class Kenneth E. Doernenburg is finally laid to rest in the place he once called home, we reflect on and remember his sacrifice in service to our country,” said Gov. Evers. “We honor his memory and join in mourning his loss.” Navy Fireman First Class Kenneth E. Doernenburg, assigned to the battleship USS Oklahoma, lost his life on Dec. 7, 1941, during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The ship, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, was attacked by Japanese aircraft and sustained multiple torpedo hits that quickly capsized the boat, claiming the lives of 429 crewmen, including Navy Fireman First Class Kenneth E. Doernenburg. Navy personnel recovered the remains of the deceased crew between 1941 and 1944 and interred unidentified remains, including those of Navy Fireman First Class Kenneth E. Doernenburg, at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) exhumed USS Oklahoma Unknowns in 2015 for scientific analysis and possible identification and the DPAA laboratory identified Navy Fireman First Class Kenneth E. Doernenburg, who was accounted for on March 25, 2021. Navy Fireman First Class Kenneth E. Doernenburg will be laid to rest with full military honors at Elmwood Cemetery in his hometown of Antigo, Wisconsin on Sat., Sept. 25, 2021. |
By Al Stanek
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
The City of Whitewater’s prospective attempts to regulate where convicted sex offenders can reside after being released from prison got an initial review at the September 21 Common Council meeting. A draft ordinance was distributed with potential passage of a sex offender residency ordinance as early as the next scheduled Common Council meeting.
City Attorney Wally McDonell advised council members that although Wisconsin requires convicted sex offenders to register with the state it allows individual communities to decide if they want to pass ordinances regulating where a convicted sexual offender may live within a given community. The City of Whitewater does not currently have such an ordinance.
The draft ordinance included several potential components designating specific “child safety zones” where sexual offenders would be prohibited from taking up residence. It also would prohibit residency by a convicted sex offender who was not a city resident at the time that his or her offense occurred. State and federal requirements allow for a convicted sex offender to return to the community in which they resided at the time of the offense.
Consideration of a sex offender residency ordinance was initially suggested by the Whitewater Police Department. The department reported the results of a preliminary review indicating that roughly 150 Wisconsin municipalities have sexual offender residency ordinances. That compares to the 600 individual city and village members reported by the Wisconsin League of Municipalities. It was suggested that communities that lack a sex offender residency ordinance may experience a disproportionate influx of released sex offenders.
City Attorney McDonell urged careful review of the proposed ordinance and pointed to the potential liability if the city passed an overly restrictive ordinance that could be challenged on US Constitutional grounds.
The issue first arose at the September 7 Common Council meeting and several people provided public input at that time. The ability to provide input electronically at the September 21 meeting was hampered because the meeting was not able to be livestreamed on smart phone or computer. The meeting was broadcast on cable and the recording is available to be viewed on the city website.
In other business a request from Johns Disposal for a 4.4% rate increase for garbage pick-up was approved, the lakes drawdown project was reported as being on schedule, and the Landmarks Commission presented a report with concerns regarding the upkeep of the Effigy Mounds Preserve, located west of Indian Mound Parkway, and the potential need to relocate visitor pathways. Parks & Recreation Director Eric Boettcher is researching requirements and options and will report back.
Our thanks to Tom Ganser for generously sharing these photos.
Editor’s note: The following information was provided by The League of Women Voters – Whitewater Area.
The League of Women Voters-Whitewater Area is excited to again be part of a national effort to strengthen our democracy on National Voter Registration Day, Tuesday September 28, 2021! We are holding three tabling events that day:
- 10AM-3PM, Irvin L. Young Memorial Library (431 W. Center Street, Whitewater)
- 1PM – 3PM, Dwight Foster Public Library (209 Merchants Avenue, Fort Atkinson)
- 4PM- 7PM, Whitewater City Market at the Train Depot (301 W. Whitewater Street, Whitewater)
League volunteers will be handing out voting informational materials, plus registration and absentee ballot request forms as needed. National Voter Registration Day is a nonpartisan nationwide event seeking to increase civic participation by encouraging Americans to register to vote and making sure everyone has the opportunity to vote.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Visit our website at https://my.lwv.org/wisconsin/whitewater-area and like us on Facebook!
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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