Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Thursday, October 8, 2026
News & Events
To add an event, click here to go to the Community Calendar. Then, click on Submit Event.
Helpful Links
Search our Archives
To search our archives, enter a search term in the search box, then press enter to search.
Juan Cuellar Meza has been appointed to the Dean’s List at The University of Dubuque, and Naomi Allen, of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, has been named to the Dean’s List at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.
Article Submitted by Mark Maas
Whitewater High School Head Track and Field Coach
mmaas@wwusd.org
Photo Courtesy of Coach Jill Rausch
The Whippet Track and Field Team hosted a WIAA Division II Sectional on Thursday night, June 17, advancing two relays and two individuals to the WIAA State Meet in La Crosse.
Heading to La Crosse for the girls are the 4×100 and 4×200 M Relays. Kacie Carollo, Amanda Tovar, Madelynn Buehler, and Kindyl Kilar finished second in the 4×100 and third in the 4×200 to advance into the state competition. Alternates for the relays are Olive Coburn and Emma Weigel.
Trenten Zahn raced his way to a victory with a thrilling finish in the 800 M Run. Sprinting down the final straightaway, Zahn caught Jefferson’s Sawyer Thorpe at the line and pulled out the win by 1/100th of a second.
Avery Caputo earned his way to State in the 100 and 400 Meter Wheelchair races.
The Whippets battled all night long with many having their best performances of the season. The Whippet Coaching staff is proud of all of the student athletes and the effort they put forth this year. We are particularly thankful, indebted, and proud of the leadership provided by our seniors who have had to navigate through a difficult year. In a word, they were outstanding and will be missed.
We would also like to thank everyone who helped us put on the WIAA Sectional Track and Field Meet, in particular Meet Manager Chad Carstens, AD Justin Crandall, Shannon Cushman, and Ronnie Kelly and his grounds crew, along with all of our meet workers who helped us once again put on a successful meet.
Link to Meet Results:
https://www.wiaawi.org/Portals/0/PDF/Results/Track/2021/whitewatersectional.htm?ver=V6ImQqr2xXCqfzAxBDc7qg%3d%3d
The image, “First Day of Summer” by dangaken is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
Summer 2021 in Northern Hemisphere will begin on Sunday, June 20 and ends on Wednesday, September 22.
THE JUNE SOLSTICE
In the Northern Hemisphere, the June solstice (aka summer solstice) occurs when the Sun travels along its northernmost path in the sky. This marks the astronomical start of summer in the northern half of the globe. (In the Southern Hemisphere, it’s the opposite: the June solstice marks the astronomical start of winter, when the Sun is at its lowest point in the sky.)
WHEN IS THE SUMMER SOLSTICE?
The June solstice occurs on Sunday, June 20, 2021, at 11:32 P.M. EDT. In 2021, it so happens that the solstice falls on the same day as Father’s Day!
The solstice marks the official beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, occurring when Earth arrives at the point in its orbit where the North Pole is at its maximum tilt (about 23.5 degrees) toward the Sun, resulting in the longest day and shortest night of the calendar year. (By longest “day,” we mean the longest period of sunlight hours.) On the day of the June solstice, the Northern Hemisphere receives sunlight at the most direct angle of the year.
| Year | Summer Solstice (Northern Hemisphere) |
|---|---|
| 2021 | Sunday, June 20, at 11:32 P.M. EDT |
| 2022 | Tuesday, June 21, at 5:14 A.M. EDT |
| 2023 | Wednesday, June 21, at 10:58 A.M. EDT |
| 2024 | Thursday, June 20, at 4:51 P.M. EDT |
Note: In the Southern Hemisphere, the June solstice marks the beginning of winter.
Source: https://www.almanac.com/content/first-day-summer-summer-solstice
Sheriff Knudson is pleased to announce that the Rock County Sheriff’s Office is offering a
Boater Safety Education Course on July 18, 2021, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the
Edgerton Conservation Club located in the back of Race Track Park, 900 Stoughton Road,
Edgerton, WI 53534.
The Rock County Sheriff’s Office strongly encourages all boaters to take a boater safety
course. Anyone born on or after January 1, 1989, is required to complete a boater safety
course to legally operate a motorboat or personal watercraft (PWC) on Wisconsin waters.
Participants will learn safe boating techniques and gain knowledge that can keep them
safe on the water. It is recommended that participants be at least 12 years of age or turn
12 shortly following completion of the class. There is a class fee of $10.00 per student,
due at registration. Class size is limited to thirty (30) students with enrollment on a first
come basis. Reserve a spot online at https://www.co.rock.wi.us/sheriff-boater-education.
After submitting the online enrollment form, participants will receive a confirmation email
with information on the mandatory registration meeting. Underage participants must have
a parent or guardian attend the registration meeting with them.
Source: Rock County Sheriff’s Department press release
The image on the homepage, “Boating safety – Caution when Crossing Paths with Other Boaters” by State Farm is licensed under CC BY 2.0
June 16, 2021- Effective immediately, the City of Whitewater is issuing a burn ban within city
limits until further notice.
Warm weather and inadequate rainfall are putting southeast Wisconsin in severe drought conditions.
Vegetation is drying out, which increases the risk of wildfires.
The city is suspending the issuance of burn permits. There is to be no burning of organic yard waste.
Recreational burning, such as campfires or bonfires is also prohibited.
Outdoor grills and open flames are only to be used for cooking purposes. Dispose of any ashes properly and
do not leave fires unattended.
As a reminder, the use of fireworks is illegal and prohibited by law within the city limits.
Citizens found to be in violation of the burn ban will be subject to fines, penalties and costs related to
prosecution. Those in violation might also be responsible for reimbursing the city for costs related to
extinguishing the fire by the Whitewater Volunteer Fire Department.
For additional questions or concerns, contact Neighborhood Services Director, Chris Bennett at
(262) 473-0143 or cbennett@whitewater-wi.gov.
(UW-W press release) Everyone is invited and encouraged to join a public hearing as the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater seeks feedback on its proposed new mission statement. The event is 2-3 p.m. Tuesday, June 22, and will be held virtually. The live video stream link is available online at uww.edu/strategic-plan/public-hearing. Closed captioning will be available. The following phone number is also provided: Toll Free 1-855-749-4750Event number: 177 642 9612
Event password: mMPmeJ82bS2
“UW-Whitewater is very proud to provide high-quality educational and cultural opportunities for citizens in our region,” said Greg Cook, interim provost. “As a public steward of this responsibility, we are continuously striving to improve and adapt to the needs of the region. As part of that promise, we are updating our mission statement to reflect our current goals and aspirations as a regional comprehensive university.”
The Banner is providing the proposed mission statement and current mission statement at the end of this article.
As part of the university’s 2021-2022 strategic plan, a revised mission statement was drafted by members of the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee. This committee includes more than 40 members representing all areas of the university, including all employees and students. The committee also includes the Whitewater City Manager, connecting to the needs of the city and local region. Numerous open listening sessions were conducted to gather feedback and suggestions from members of the university and local community. The statement was approved by the Committee, all university governance groups, and the Chancellor. After the June 22 final public hearing, the final draft will be presented to the UW System Board of Regents for review and approval.
PROPOSED NEW MISSION STATEMENT
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is a preeminent academic institution driven by the pursuit of knowledge, powered by a spirit of innovation, and focused on transforming lives. As part of the University of Wisconsin System, UW-Whitewater embraces the Wisconsin Idea and is an economic and cultural driver of our region. We are nationally and internationally recognized for the accomplishments of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Grounded in a rigorous core curriculum, students receive a well-rounded education, and every academic program prepares students to be creative, innovative and adaptable in dynamic and diverse work and life environments.
We are an inclusive educational community with a deep commitment to access that inspires us to serve students from diverse backgrounds, experiences, identities, and abilities. We have a longstanding special mission to serve students with disabilities. By supporting all students, we champion education, opportunity and prosperity for all. As engaged global citizens, members of our community make positive contributions to the State of Wisconsin, to our nation, and to the world.
Our academic programs serve undergraduate and graduate students, including online learners, and span the disciplines, from the theoretical to the applied, and encompass study in the arts, business, education, humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, technology, and professional and interdisciplinary programs. High-quality programs are offered at the associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral levels. These programs prepare students to become lifelong learners who lead successful lives and enjoy productive careers.
CURRENT MISSION STATEMENT
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is committed to the development of the individual, the growth of personal and professional integrity and respect for diversity and global perspectives. These are met by providing academic and cocurricular programs that emphasize the pursuit of knowledge and understanding and a commitment to service within a safe and secure environment.
The mission of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is:
- To provide a range of undergraduate programs and degrees, including interdisciplinary programs, in letters, sciences, and the arts as well as programs and degrees leading to professional specialization.
- To offer graduate education built clearly upon its undergraduate emphases and strengths with particular emphasis in the fields of business, education, communication, and human services.
- To engage in scholarly activity, including research, scholarship and creative endeavor, that supports its programs at the associate and baccalaureate degree level, its graduate programs, and its select mission.
- To create and maintain a positive and inviting environment for multicultural students, students with disabilities, and nontraditional students, and provide support services and programs for them.
- To serve as a regional cultural and economic resource center through its service initiatives.
- To provide continuing education and outreach programs as integrated institutional activities.
- To provide a variety of co-curricular activities to enhance out-of-class learning opportunities.
- To encourage and maintain a high level of personal and professional integrity in all University life and activities.
Photos courtesy of Tom Ganser 
Dear Warhawk Community,
It is with great sadness we announce the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater has been notified that one of our Warhawk students has passed away. Zachary (Zac) Wasendorf, a political science major with a minor in leadership and military science, passed away on Friday, June 4. Zac was proudly serving as a sergeant in the Wisconsin National Guard and was an active member in Phi Delta Theta fraternity.
The UW-Whitewater flag will fly at half-staff on Thursday, June 10, in honor of Zac’s memory.
A public gathering will be held on Thursday, June 10, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Gunderson West Funeral and Cremation Care, located at 7435 University Avenue in Middleton, Wisconsin. Military funeral honors by the Wisconsin Army National Guard will take place at 6 p.m.
As we process this information, please know that counseling services are available to you. For students, please contact the University Health and Counseling Services. For faculty and staff, please contact Kepro, the Employee Assistance Program.
An obituary can be found at: https://www.gundersonfh.com/obituaries/Zachary-James-Wasendorf?obId=21342475#/obituaryInfo
— Dean of Students
Source: UW-W Announcements
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
Other Recent Posts
Click on the title to view the post. To open the post in a new tab, press Ctrl (Cmd on a Mac) while clicking on the title.
