Early City Motto "The Banner Inland City of the Midwest"
The Banner has been serving Whitewater, Wisconsin since August 1, 2006
Today is Tuesday, May 12, 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.
Cara Yang, a senior at Whitewater High School, signs her contract with the University of Utah
In a world where Division I soccer often favors height and athletic prototypes, one young athlete is proving that heart, discipline, and determination can overcome any obstacle. At just 5 feet 2 inches tall, and hailing from a quiet small town with limited local opportunities, Cara Yang’s story is one of relentless pursuit and ultimate triumph.
For eight years, Cara committed everything to her dream of playing college soccer at the highest level. Living far from training facilities, she endured over an hour drive for weekday practices–close to three hours total on the road, multiple times a week. Weekends meant even longer journeys for games and tournaments, often turning family time into a blur of highways and hotel rooms.
The sacrifices were immense. She missed school activities, skipped social gatherings, and said no to hangouts with friends. “It wasn’t easy,” she reflects. “But every missed event was as step toward something bigger.” While her peers enjoyed typical high school experience, Cara balanced rigorous academics with exhaustive training, all fueled by an unwavering vision of competing on a big stage.
Then in her junior year of high school, heartbreak struck. During an early season conference game, Cara was tackled and felt the devastating pop–an ACL tear. The diagnosis crushed her: surgery, months off the field, the fear that her dream was slipping away. Recovery was brutal. Endless physical therapy sessions, grueling rehab exercises, pain that tested her limits. She rebuilt her strength from scratch–hip work, balance drills, slow jobs turning into sprints. Doubts tried to creep in, but she refused to quit. Her comeback was emotional. The injury may have slowed her down–it stole months, forced her to adapt–but it never stopped her.
Her perseverance paid off in the best way possible: a commitment to play for the University of Utah. Surrounded by family, coaches, and friends, she signed her official contract, marking the culmination of years of quiet dedication.
Cara’s journey reminds us that talent comes in all sizes, and dreams don’t measure height–they measure commitment and how we rise after the fall. As she prepares to step on the field in the Big 12, she’s not just representing her small town; she’s inspiring every undersized athlete who dares to dream big.
Editor’s note: This article was submitted by Joy Yang.
Wreaths Across America Ceremony in LaGrange
On Saturday, December 20th, a crowd of one hundred gathered at Heart Prairie Cemetery in LaGrange to participate in the postponed national Wreaths Across America (WAA) event. The purpose of this gathering was to honor the fallen veterans who are buried in the cemetery.
Those in attendance paid tribute by placing 42 wreaths on the gravesites of veterans who had served the United States from the War of 1812 through the Vietnam conflict. Each wreath symbolized respect and remembrance for the sacrifices made by these individuals.
The ceremony was organized and conducted by Peggy Schutt, a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Samuel Phoenix Chapter. Collaborating with Jim Holden, the sexton of the cemetery, they established a high benchmark for the event. During the ceremony, Schutt read a statement provided by WAA, affirming the event’s mission: to remember the nation’s fallen heroes, honor their service, and educate future generations about the value of freedom.
Wreaths were placed in honor of each branch of military service, as well as a special wreath dedicated to those who are missing in action or prisoners of war (MIA/POWS). The ceremony featured remarks from Senator Steve Nass of LaGrange, Representative Brienne Brown of Whitewater, and John Scholz, the Walworth County Veterans Service Officer. Their words highlighted the significance of the event and the enduring gratitude owed to the veterans.
To conclude the opening ceremony, the Whitewater American Legion Post 173 provided a gun salute and played TAPS, offering a solemn tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for the country.
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Pat Blackmer.
Nearly 30 students at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater earned grants to conduct undergraduate research during the 2025-26 academic year.
The following students from your coverage area conducted research this fall:
Whitewater, WI 53190: Aiden Murray, whose major at UW-Whitewater is Physical Education.
Whitewater, WI 53190: Holly Shannon, whose major at UW-Whitewater is Environmental Science.
Academic Year (AY) Grants are awarded to a student or a small group of students of sophomore status or higher leading a research project endorsed by a UW-Whitewater faculty or staff member. Individual recipients of Academic Year Grants can receive up to $750, and groups can receive up to $1,500.
Funds through the grants support research supplies, travel, and publication costs. Students supported by Academic Year Grants must present at either the National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) or at the Universities of Wisconsin Symposium. (Costs associated with attending those events are covered by UW-Whitewater’s Undergraduate Research, Innovative, and Creative Activities (URICA) program.)
Students who conduct undergraduate research at UW-Whitewater are paired with faculty or staff mentors to conduct research. While working 1:1 with faculty and staff mentors to assist with research, students develop critical soft skills – including communication, critical thinking, and problem solving – that employers seek in job candidates.
To learn more about Academic Year Grants and undergraduate research at UW-Whitewater, visit uww.edu/urp.
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by UW-Whitewater.
| Gov. Evers, WisDOT Unveil New Blackout and Retro License Plate Designs for Wisconsin Drivers |
| Bipartisan state budget signed by Gov. Evers provided funding to release the much-anticipated plates, which are estimated to generate more than $25 million for the state’s transportation fund in the first three years |
| Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), recently unveiled the designs of Wisconsin’s newest state license plates, a Blackout design and a Retro butter yellow design, depicted below. The bipartisan 2025-27 Biennial Budget signed by Gov. Evers included $5.5 million in funding to support the introduction of these two new specialty license plates, which are estimated to generate more than $25 million for the state’s transportation fund in the first three years. The additional revenue for the state transportation fund will help build upon the Evers Administration’s efforts to invest in Wisconsin’s infrastructure to ensure it meets the needs of a 21st-century workforce and economy. Since 2019, the Evers Administration has improved more than 9,600 miles of roads and 2,400 bridges statewide. The two new license plates, which WisDOT fast-tracked development of the plates in order to ensure they would be ready for public distribution, will be available beginning in early January 2026. “These new specialty plates are a win-win for Wisconsin. They not only meet long-standing demand for new plate designs Wisconsinites can choose from, but will also provide new, ongoing resources so we can continue working to fix the darn roads across our state,” said Gov. Evers. “Bringing back the butter yellow Retro plate offers folks a sense of nostalgia while celebrating Wisconsin’s heritage as America’s Dairyland, and the new Blackout plate provides a contemporary look that folks have been asking for. Both plates embody a special sense of Wisconsin style, and I look forward to seeing them out on our roads.” The new Blackout plate features an all-black background with white letters, numbers, and outline. WisDOT estimates over half a million Blackout plates could be on the road within three years. An image of the Blackout design is available here. An image of the Retro butter yellow design is available here. An image of the Retro butter yellow and Blackout design side by side is available here and below. “As the former Wisconsin DMV administrator and now transportation secretary, I’m excited to see these new plates become a reality,” said WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman. “The design of the Blackout plate is simple, clean, and complements many vehicle colors. This style has been very popular in our neighboring states, and anticipation for these plates has been building here in Wisconsin for quite some time.” The Retro yellow or “butter” license plate harkens back to the 1970s, featuring the familiar black letters on a sharp, yellow background. “Some call it the butter plate, others call it the Retro plate but if you had one in the 1970s, it was just the Wisconsin license plate,” continued Secretary Boardman. “We put in some effort to get just the right shade of yellow. It’s nostalgic, it’s familiar to many, and I am planning to order one myself.” According to WisDOT, both license plates will feature the state name on top like all current Wisconsin plates, and the slogan “America’s Dairyland” will display beneath the numbers and letters on the Retro plate. Standard-issued plates will have a sequence of numbers and letters that are also unique. The Blackout plates will begin with ZAA 1001, and the Retro plates will begin with YAA 1001. The simplified design allows for up to seven characters for those wanting to personalize their plates. FEES AND ORDERING PROCESS Both plates come with a one-time $15 issuance fee, plus a $25 annual registration fee. The income generated from the registration of these plates will help finance infrastructure improvement projects all across the state. These plates will be available online, in most DMVs, at participating dealers, and third parties who already stock Wisconsin plates. The plates join dozens of others available to order online through DMV’s new web app wisconsindmv.gov/specialplates. The app streamlines the ordering process, helps customers select a plate from more than 60 options organized by interest areas, and makes delivery faster. Customers whose order requires no special eligibility, which includes the Blackout and Retro plate, and does not include a personalized message, could receive their plates within a week instead of several weeks via the traditional mail-in process. Approximately 25 percent of plates ordered through the new app are mailed out the next day. The guided online process allows the customer the option to personalize their plate with a custom message. The plate is then previewed to show the personalized message on the plate as they type it. The message is concurrently verified with the database to check for duplicates or known inappropriate words or phrases. This convenient process continues by allowing the customer to renew their vehicle registration at the same time. Finally, instead of needing to mail a check or money order, customers can pay online using modern, secure payment methods. DMV Customer Service Centers (wisconsindmv.gov/centers) that provide license plates/registration will also have stock on hand beginning in early January. |
Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the Office of the Governor.
My name is Orin Smith, and I currently serve as the Alderman for District 2 on the Whitewater Common Council. I am announcing my candidacy for the at-large alderman seat in the upcoming spring election.
Serving District 2 has been a meaningful responsibility and a privilege. Representing a district with a strong undergraduate student population has shaped how I think about accessibility, communication, and the importance of meeting people where they are. I am proud of the work I’ve done alongside residents, fellow council members, and city staff, and I remain committed to representing District 2 fully through the remainder of my term.
As more undergraduate students express interest in serving, I see an opportunity for District 2 to continue being represented by someone closely connected to the experiences that shape that part of our community. At the same time, I remain deeply committed to serving residents across Whitewater. Running for the at-large seat allows me to continue the work I care about, supporting meaningful community engagement, identifying avenues for local affordability, and building connections between neighbors, while focusing on the needs of people throughout the city rather than any single district.
I also bring a perspective that is common in Whitewater, but not always represented. I came here as a student and chose to stay. As a renter, I understand that the costs of living show up differently for different people, whether through rent, taxes, or other household expenses. Over time, Whitewater became my home, the place where I found community, a partner, and a career. That experience guides how I approach local leadership and decision-making, balancing affordability, shared responsibility, and care for the people who call Whitewater home.
If elected, I will continue to prioritize accessible governance, thoughtful collaboration, and decision-making that reflects the lived experiences of Whitewater residents. I believe strongly in local government that listens first and works to bring people together rather than divide them.
The spring election will be held on April 7th, 2026.
orinsmith018@gmail.com
(608) 739-1604
Story and photos courtesy of Tom Ganser
Residents of Fairhaven joined with members of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Phi Eta Sigma, a national honor society, and Empower, an organization designed to utilize the skills of its members in order to empower the world and our community around us, in making 2,428 dog treats in Fairhaven’s Olm Fellowship Hall on November 14. According to Brian Robinson, director of marketing, community relations & leisure services, this was about the 75th time that Fairhaven residents and UW-W students have worked side-by-side in this marvelous intergenerational activity.
| The University of Wisconsin–Whitewater Department of Music extends its sincere gratitude to the many local businesses, organizations, and individuals whose generous support helped make the 30th Annual Gala Concert a resounding success. Through program sponsorships and donated raffle basket items, these community partners played a vital role in supporting music scholarships for UW–Whitewater students. Now in its 30th year, the Gala Concert celebrates excellence in music performance while raising essential funds to help student musicians pursue their artistic and academic goals. Profits from this milestone event directly support scholarships that ease financial barriers and empower the next generation of artists and educators. The Department of Music gratefully acknowledges the following program sponsors for their financial support: $750 Sponsors First Citizens State Bank DLK Enterprises $500 Sponsors PremierBank McCullough’s LTC Pharmacy Mulberry Glen Campus – Independent & Assisted Living $250 Sponsors The Coburn Company, Inc. Burtness Chevrolet, Buick, GMC 841 Brewhouse Culver’s – MJ Whitewater LLC Ketterhagen Motor Sales Tincher Realty, Inc. Fairhaven Senior Services & Prairie Village Jessica’s Restaurant The Sweet Spot Coffee Shop LLC Whitewater Cinemas LLC White House of Music The Community Space Second Salem The department also offers heartfelt thanks to the many basket raffle donors, whose contributions added excitement to the event and helped raise additional scholarship funds: A Better Physique LLC; Aranda–Be Unique; Associated Bank; BaristaCats Café; Brain Freeze; Busy Barn Farm Adventures LLC & The Gathering Barn; Casey’s General Stores, Inc.; Carol L. Paur; Carrie Oster; Center Street Café; China House; Creative Forces; Culver’s – MJ Whitewater LLC; Dale’s Bootery; Dr. Diana Shapiro; Eagle Nutrition; Fanatico; Floral Villa Flowers & Gifts; Frosty Freeze; Glorify Beauty & Wellness for the Family; Good 2 Go; Gus’ Pizza Palace; Hippychick Penny’s Soaps & Body Care; Holiday Inn Express; Home Lumber; Hometown Pharmacy; Jersey Mike’s Subs; Janye; Knutson Jewelers Inc.; Kwik Trip; LG Axe Throwing; Lewis Station Winery; M&M Total Fitness CrossFit Fort Atkinson; Mary Jane Andersen; Monique’s Nail Services; Pam Van Doren; Pet Supplies Plus; Qēt Botanicals; Rosa’s Pizza; Sandy Pelc; Sim Stations; Starbucks; Staller Estate Winery and Vineyard; Spring Creek Golf Center; Subway; Taco Fiesta; Taco Fresco; Taqueria La Estrella; Tan-a-Latte and Gifts; The Book Teller; The Community Space; The Fuzzy Pig, Inc.; The Rabbit Hole; The Real MacCoys; The Vinery Stained Glass Studio; The Whitewater Arts Alliance; The Young Performing Arts Center; Toppers Pizza; UW-Whitewater College of Arts and Communication; Vintage on Main; Willow Brook Golf Course, LLC; and Whitewater Cinemas LLC. “The generosity of our local partners demonstrates the strength of our community and its commitment to arts education,” said Christian Ellenwood, Chair of the UW–Whitewater Department of Music. “Their support has a direct and lasting impact on our students, and we are deeply thankful.” For more information about UW–Whitewater music scholarships or future events, please visit uww.edu/music. |
| The College of Arts and Communication at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater offers rigorous programs in music, theatre, dance, and the visual arts; internships; pre-professional opportunities in journalism, advertising, and applied communication; and innovative interdisciplinary studies. Visit the College of Arts and Communication website for more information. |
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
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.
