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Today is Tuesday, May 12, 2026
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The Whitewater Boys’ Basketball Team had a rough ending to the 2025 part of the schedule, dropping two games last weekend.
On Friday night, December 19th, East Troy rolled into town with a 5-1 record. The Trojans started fast and never looked back, as they made the night difficult for the Whippets in an 87-44 win.
Matthew Carollo led the home team with 16 points and 8 rebounds. Casey Lyon chipped in 15 points, but Whitewater struggled offensively, only shooting 17 out of 69 from the field.
In a short turnaround, Whitewater played Heritage Christian, Saturday morning, December 20th, in the Win Parkinson Invitational, at Milwaukee Bradley Tech. The Whippets again started slowly, falling behind 34-17 at halftime. Whitewater was able to chip away and battled back to climb within seven points about halfway through the second period. But Heritage Christian rebuilt the lead and defeated the Whippets 80-57.
Whitewater was again led by Matthew Carollo with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Evan Amundson scored a season high 16 points, and Casey Lyon finished with 10 points and 7 rebounds.
Whitewater is now 2-1 in the conference and 4-4 overall. Casey Lyon leads the team with a 27.5 points per game scoring average. Matthew Carollo is averaging 16 points per game and 9 rebounds per game.
The Whippets will next play on Saturday, January 3rd, at 12:30 pm in a non-conference home game against Johnson Creek. The next conference game will be Friday, January 9th, at Monroe.
Article Submitted by Dwayne Lange
Updated 12/29/25 @ 8:55 a.m. to update the annual membership fee for Seniors in the Park.
“Eleanor the Great”
Tuesday, December 30, 1 pm
(Drama)
Rated PG-13; 1 hour, 38 minutes (2025).
96 year old actress June Squibb is Eleanor, a lonely senior looking for meaning and fulfillment. She finds it at a Jewish Community Center, but her fibbing about experiences during the Holocaust creates problems. Directed by Scarlett Johansson.
Seniors in the Park is located in Starin Park, 504 W. Starin Road. Although there is no charge to attend, regular participants are encouraged to join Seniors in the Park. The annual fee for residents of the Whitewater Unified School District is $15 and non-residents is $20. The funds support about half of the cost of our front desk staff person for 15 hours per week. The rest comes out of our fundraising monies. If you cannot afford the fee, we have a fund that will cover it for you. Fees are accepted at the Starin Park Community Building or online at https://schedulesplus.com/wwtr/kiosk/
Tyler Schneider, a longtime Whitewater resident and senior at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, has announced his candidacy for Walworth County Supervisor, District 4. Schneider, 21, has lived in the Whitewater area for more than a decade and recently moved into the city full-time. He is currently completing his degree in political science at UW-Whitewater, where he has earned Dean’s List honors multiple times and qualified for Pi Sigma Alpha, the national political science honor society. He has also interned at the Wisconsin State Capitol with Rep. Brienne Brown and serves as a Chancellor’s Warhawk Ambassador.
Schneider said his decision to run was driven by the growing housing shortage and affordability crisis affecting Walworth County. “While these problems are national in scope, the solutions start locally,” Schneider said. “County government plays a direct role in land use, development, and long-term planning; those decisions shape whether young people and working families can afford to stay here.”
Schneider acknowledged that his age may give some voters pause, but argued it is one of his strengths. “Younger residents are among the most affected by housing costs, development decisions, and long-term fiscal policy,” he said. “If those voices aren’t at the table, they’re easy to overlook.” Schneider also emphasized the nonpartisan nature of the County Board as a strength. He said growing up in a household with differing political views challenged him to listen carefully, evaluate opposing arguments, and focus on practical solutions rather than ideology.
If elected, Schneider said his priorities would include opposing the construction of any proposed AI data center in Walworth County, advancing policies to expand housing supply, and improving affordability while maintaining the county’s responsible budget surplus.
The election for Walworth County Supervisor District 4 will take place on April 7, 2026.
The City of Whitewater – Christmas Tree Collection Notice
The Department of Public Works will collect Christmas trees on:
- Tuesday, January 6, 2026
- Tuesday, January 13, 2026
Please place your tree on the terrace by 6:00 a.m. on the scheduled dates.
Missed the scheduled pickup?
Call the Department of Public Works at (262) 473-0560 before 12:00 noon on the Monday prior to
the next Tuesday collection to request pickup.
Important Disposal Guidelines: - Trees that are flocked or contain wire will not be collected by the city. These trees should be placed on your terrace for bulk pickup by John’s Disposal on the second Thursday of the month (your regular bulk pickup day).
Questions?
Contact the Department of Public Works at (262) 473-0560.
For other requests visit https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/RequestTracker.aspx.
Brad Marquardt
Director of Public Works
262-473-0139
bmarquardt@whitewater-wi.gov
FCCU Donates $909.09 to the Friends of the Whitewater Public Library Through Employee Charitable
Contributions
Fort Community Credit Union (FCCU) is proud to announce a donation of $909.09 to the Friends of the Whitewater Public Library, supporting its mission to enhance library services, foster community engagement, and promote lifelong learning opportunities for area residents.
The donation was raised through FCCU’s new employee charitable giving program, which allows team members to voluntarily contribute a portion of their paychecks to local nonprofit organizations. In its inaugural year, the program supported 11 local organizations selected for their meaningful impact on the wellbeing of the communities FCCU serves.
The Friends of the Whitewater Public Library was chosen as one of the program’s first-year beneficiaries. The work of the Friends strengthens the Whitewater Community by expanding access to educational materials, promoting literacy, and creating a welcoming community space for learning, connection, and creativity. Through its support of programs such as youth reading initiatives, adult education opportunities, and cultural events, the organization ensures the library remains a vibrant cornerstone of the community.
“The library relies on strong community partners like the Fort Community Credit Union to help us further our mission of creating innovative and welcoming spaces to everyone in our community,” said Sarah French, Assistant Director of the Whitewater Public Library. “This donation will help the library provide essential services, materials, and programs for people of all ages, and it is much appreciated.”
FCCU’s employee giving program reflects the credit union’s cooperative values and its commitment to empowering team members to make a direct impact in their own communities. By combining employee contributions with FCCU’s support, the program amplifies the reach of local nonprofits that are addressing important community needs.
About FCCU: Established in 1940, Fort Community Credit Union (FCCU) is a member-owned financial cooperative open to anyone living or working in Dane, Dodge, Jefferson, Rock, Walworth, or Waukesha counties. With branch locations in Fort Atkinson, Jefferson, Watertown, and Whitewater, FCCU holds $380 million in assets and has more than 21,000 members. For more information about FCCU and the products and services they offer, visit fortcommunity.com or call (920) 563-7305.
Cravath Lakefront Christmas Park, from the scenic overlook on Wisconsin Street.
Out to get some fish through the ice on Trippe lake. Not me, some other hearty souls.
Our thanks to Steve Watson for sharing more beautiful photos.
— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share. Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!
We are filled with gratitude for everyone who supported our incredibly successful Annual Fall Dinner that was held at Staller Estate Winery on November 7, 2025! Thanks to your generosity, we wrapped up the event raising $46,145, which will directly support families here in Whitewater.
We continue to be humbled and proud of the generosity shown to our organization and the investments made in our mission.
THANK YOU to our sponsors, attendees, silent auction winners, donors, and in-kind supporters. We are so very grateful for this community — and for all of you!
We also want to share some photos taken by Tom Ganser that captured this beautiful evening!
Editor’s note: When this article was originally posted on December 23 all of the material except for the photos pertained to the 2024 dinner. Our apologies for this error.
Joy to the world! Wishing you a peaceful and pleasant day.
Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the above image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay.
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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