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Today is Wednesday, May 13, 2026
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Saturday marked the final time that Traysen Thomason and Jack Hefty would don the Whippet jersey in high school competition. Both seniors have already achieved remarkable accomplishments in their careers, but they arrived at the state meet with unfinished business—and they delivered in dramatic fashion.
Traysen Thomason – A Sprinter’s Dream Realized
Traysen was first up, with the 100-meter dash—arguably the most electrifying event in track and field—scheduled early in the day. With nearly 10,000 spectators packed in and the atmosphere electric, a rare hush fell over the crowd as the Division 2 finalists settled into their blocks. Traysen, reflecting on his mindset beforehand, said, “I simply wanted to put all the pieces together into this 100m final. All the things I’ve learned in my journey, and apply them here and now.”
He did exactly that. Launching from the blocks like a cannon, Traysen surged to an early lead, powering down the straightaway. His biggest threat came from a familiar foe—Ryan Walther of Delavan-Darien. As they barreled toward the finish, it came down to a lean at the line. The stadium collectively held its breath.
And then—it happened. Traysen Thomason’s name flashed first on the scoreboard.
With a scream of triumph and every muscle fiber bursting with adrenaline, Traysen celebrated becoming the first 100m state champion in Whitewater High School history. His winning time of 10.82 seconds edged out Walther by just two hundredths of a second.
Later that afternoon, Traysen returned for the 200-meter final, motivated by two goals: to reach the podium and break the school record he shared with Larry Gnatzig. With one final burst of brilliance down the home stretch, he achieved both. Traysen finished in third place with a new personal best and school record time of 21.97 seconds. An electrifying meet for Traysen.
He closed his high school career with three state podium finishes—including a state title in the 100m, a 4th-place finish in 2024, and now a bronze in the 200m. He holds school records in both sprint events and will continue his running career at UW-Whitewater this fall.
As is tradition, at 10:30 PM on Saturday in the auxiliary gym of Whitewater High School, Traysen was able to participate in the ceremonial ‘record-breaking ceremony’ as he now owns that mark.
Jack Hefty – Capping Off a Storied Career
Soon after Traysen’s 200, Jack Hefty laced up for the final race of his high school career—the 3200 meters. With a loaded field and a fast early pace set by Declan Gregg (Aquinas) and Isaac Ewing (McFarland), Jack played it smart. He bided his time in eighth through the opening 400m, then steadily climbed the field.
By the 1600m mark, he had moved into third, only 1.5 seconds off the lead. Though the front-runners surged again with 800 to go, Jack fought to stay in contact and dig deep one final time. As the bell lap sounded, he battled not just for position—but for pride—and held on for a 6th-place finish in 9:22.09, the second-fastest 3200 of his career.
This race capped an incredible legacy. Jack leaves Whitewater High School with five state podium finishes over four years:
- Freshman Year: 7th in the 3200m
- Sophomore Year: State Champion in the 1600m
- Junior Year: Repeat Champion in the 1600m, 3rd in the 4x400m relay
- Senior Year: Three-peat in the 1600m, and a podium finish in the 3200m
He holds school records in both the 1600m and 3200m, with the third-fastest 4×400 team and second-fastest 800 time in school history. This fall, Jack will take his talents to the United States Naval Academy in Maryland, where he will compete for both the cross country and track & field teams.
Collectively, they scored 29 points, placing 4th overall as a team.
As Traysen and Jack sprinted and surged through their final races in Whippet uniforms, they weren’t just chasing medals—they were etching their names into Whitewater history. Their drive, talent, and leadership will be felt for years to come. From school records to state titles, from roar-of-the-crowd finishes to quiet moments of reflection, these two athletes have shown what it means to represent their school with excellence. The next chapter awaits—but their legacy is already set in stone.
Article and Photos Courtesy of Chad Carstens
Whitewater High School Assistant Track and Field Coach
ccarstens@wwusd.org
Local Student Named to Westminster College’s Spring 2025 Dean’s List
NEW WILMINGTON, PA – Amber Krebs of Whitewater, Wis., was among 364 students named to the Westminster College’s Dean’s List for the spring 2025 semester.
Krebs, majoring in psychology, is a graduate of Whitewater High School. The student also graduated from Westminster College in May.
The Westminster College Dean’s List recognizes full-time undergraduate students who achieved a 3.6 grade point average or higher in a minimum of 12 semester hours during the spring semester.
About Westminster College: Westminster College is nationally known for its collaborative environment, outstanding experiential learning programs, focus on student success, and the effort invested in making higher education affordable and attainable to all students. Established in 1852, Westminster is proud to be the first college in the country open to all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, sex or religion from its founding charter by the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Updated 6/9/25 @ 9:30 a.m. to add public notice for Landmarks Commission on Tuesday.
Updated 6/10/25 @ 3:35 p.m. to add school board special meeting on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.
City of Whitewater Plan & Architectural Review Commission – Monday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible approval of a Conditional Use Permit for Sale of Alcohol by the
Drink located at 141 W Whitewater Street #B, Parcel Id # TR 00008 for Jessica Marks
d/b/a Waypoint Bar and Games.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room, 312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or
telephone. Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/678316285
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 678-316-285
United States: +1 (571) 317-3112
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install
City of Whitewater Landmarks Commission Public Notice Re: Possible Quorum – Monday @ 6:30 p.m.
This notice is given to inform the Public that the Landmarks Commission will be at the Hamilton House
to review with the owners the proposed wheelchair accessibility ramp. The information follows:
When: Monday, June 9, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Hamilton House, 328 W Main Street, Whitewater, WI 53190
A quorum of the Landmarks Commission may be present. This notice is given to inform the public that
no formal action will be taken at this meeting. The event is open to the public. This notice is given to inform the Public that the Landmarks Commission will be at the Hamilton House to review with the owners the proposed wheelchair accessibility ramp.
City of Whitewater Equal Opportunities Commission – Tuesday @ 3:00 p.m.
Agenda
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
You are invited to a Zoom webinar!
Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84279670850?pwd=xgD5SbRxM11e4PbAPKclCNAf73lssf.1
Passcode:670334
Phone one-tap:
+16469313860,,84279670850#,,,,670334# US +19292056099,,84279670850#,,,,670334# US (New York)
Join via audio:
+1 646 931 3860 US
Webinar ID: 842 7967 0850
Passcode: 670334
International numbers available: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kbnkEmUNhq
City of Whitewater Public Works Committee – Tuesday @ 5:15 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and Possible Action regarding the award of Contract 2-2025, 2025 Street
Maintenance Project and Discussion and Possible Action regarding Walworth Avenue and Prince Street intersection
safety ideas.
Cravath Lakefront Room, 2nd Floor
312 W. Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89700852359?pwd=B6DBgg3LHYsaH1pwW2f4W3FuZk7D4F.1
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US (Chicago) (Houston)
Webinar ID: 897 0085 2359
Passcode: 473266
City of Whitewater Board of Review – Tuesday from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Open Book and opportunity to meet with the Board of Review to object property assessment
This document provides important information about the requirements for objecting.
Whitewater Unified School District School Board Special Meeting – Wednesday @ 5:30 p.m.
Virtual closed session “Specifically, to discuss and take action on the terms of the employment contract to be offered to the new superintendent.”
City of Whitewater Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Commission – Thursday @ 5:30 pm.
Agenda includes Discussion on existing Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and goals moving forward.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please note that although every effort will be made to provide for virtual participation, unforeseen
technical difficulties may prevent this, in which case the meeting may still proceed as long as there is a
quorum. Should you wish to make a comment in this situation, you are welcome to call this number:
(262) 473-0108.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85714330388?pwd=CjRmjWRlaah98VuaLWvHV61DdRpwLi.1
Meeting ID: 857 1433 0388
Passcode: 568840 —
One tap mobile
+16469313860,,85714330388#,,,,*568840# US
Dial by your location: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
Bethel’s Community Garden Project
One of the delights of spring is the opportunity to plant a garden. Gardens provide great food, physical and mental health benefits, and social connections to other gardeners. However, not everyone has the space for a garden, the time to tend to it from planting to harvest, or the experience to grow one. That’s where community gardens can be a valuable resource.
In 2024, a garden was planted at Bethel United Methodist Church, located on the corner of Hwy 12/67 and County Road A (www.ElkhornBethelUMC.org). The garden was planted on a piece of unused land at the church and provided beautiful flowers and produce which all community members and congregation members were encouraged to enjoy.
In 2025, with help from the gardening group Wisconsin Food Forests, this garden is being expanded. Wisconsin Food Forests (www.wisconsinfoodforests.com ) is an organization dedicated to establishing community gardens based on perennial plants
that will provide food for years to come.
The Bethel Garden sits on a half-acre behind the church building and will include an annual garden of flowers and vegetables, an herb garden, and a variety of perennial food-producing plants, from root crops to trees. It is an open space where all community members are encouraged to participate. Anyone can come maintain the garden, help themselves to flowers and produce, wander around, or just sit and read a book. We encourage sharing of the flowers and food grown there with all who visit. All surplus produce will go to the Elkhorn Food Pantry, while we hope to share flowers with those in local nursing homes, care facilities, and senior living complexes.
Our most recent planting day was Saturday, May 31, 2025, where Bethel members and community friends came together to share their hands, their hearts, and their green thumbs.
What is a food forest? Like a forest, food is grown from plants at different levels, including roots, ground cover, and herbaceous plants, as well as trees and shrubs. (From: https://www.fairamountfoodforest.org/what-is-a-food-forest.html )
The expansion of the garden is fairly labor intensive for the first year. In subsequent years as the garden becomes dominated by perennials, we anticipate that it will become more self-sustaining by virtue of being relatively low maintenance, and by the collective participation of people in the community.
We are deeply grateful for the number of folks who have already stepped up to help get this garden established. We had our first planting day on May 3, 2025, and had 20 plus volunteers, including children, show up to help put in the primary plants of the food forest. Since then, we have planted more perennials and annuals, including the vegetable garden, pumpkins, and lot of flowers. If this project sounds intriguing to you, please contact us with any questions (or advice). Please spread the word to anyone who might be interested and feel free to share our contact information with them.
Contact info:
Diane Bustamante
Tim Middleton
Email: middlemante@genevaonline.com
Come see our garden grow, sit for a while to enjoy the progress, lend a hand, and/or get inspiration for your own gardens. We welcome and celebrate everyone’s participation. Need a reason to come? Bethel will host a Farmers Market & Faire on Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 10 AM – 2 PM – the perfect time to see what’s happening. All are welcome to join us for this special day.
To view prospectus and submit work click here.
Submission deadline is June 15.
Theme: Artistic works that capture the essence and aesthetics of life in Wisconsin.
Jurors for the 1st Annual Paint Wisconsin Exhibition:
Frank Juárez is an award-winning art educator, curator, and arts advocate based in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Known for his commitment to elevating contemporary art and supporting Wisconsin artists, Juárez has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including the Midwest Artist Studios Project and the 365 Artists 365 Days Project. In addition to his roles as publisher of Artdose magazine and editor-in-chief of SchoolArts magazine, Juárez has curated exhibitions and juried art shows throughout the Midwest. His dedication to art education and advocacy has earned him numerous accolades, making him a pivotal figure in Wisconsin’s art community.
Graeme Reid serves as the Director of Collections and Exhibitions at the Museum of Wisconsin Art (MOWA) in West Bend. Originally from Scotland, Reid has curated over 100 exhibitions that celebrate Wisconsin’s artistic talent and cultural heritage. With a background in art history and education, he is also a respected writer, public speaker, and instructor. Reid’s extensive experience and dedication to the arts have established him as a leader in supporting and preserving Wisconsin’s rich artistic legacy.
Thomas Jewell is a renowned representational artist known for his vibrant landscapes, wildlife paintings ,and commissioned portraits. With decades of artistic experience, Jewell’s work has been featured in galleries, museums, and corporate collections across the United States. He is also a seasoned art educator, judge, and illustrator, having led workshops in drawing, watercolor, and acrylic painting. Jewell’s dedication to capturing nature and inspiring others through his art underscores his passion for creativity and community.
Visit Whitewater Arts Alliance for guidelines and online registration.
Walworth County Health and Human Services Division of Public Health, in collaboration with Aurora Lakeland Medical Center and Mercyhealth Hospital and Medical Center–Walworth, is conducting a survey to hear more about what it is like to live, learn, work, and play in Walworth County.
The survey is a part of the Community Health Assessment (CHA) and Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) process. “We conduct this assessment every three years, as it helps us understand what community members in Walworth County need to
live healthier, happier, more connected lives. Participating in the survey gives individuals the opportunity to make their voices heard, and is an important part of this process,” says Walworth County Public Health Officer Erica Bergstrom.
The Community Health Improvement Plan theme, Connecting Communities, emphasizes our collective ability to impact our community’s health and well-being through community partnerships and voice. “We now know that health is more than just
physical health, and is greatly impacted by socioeconomic factors, access to transportation, housing, environment, and much more,” says Bergstrom. “The assessment and improvement process address health across all factors that may influence our community’s well-being.”
Survey results will be used to identify needs, set goals, and work with community partners to improve the health and well-being of all who call Walworth County home. Focus groups will also be conducted with area organizations and community members
to learn more about the needs of Walworth County residents.
The Community Health Survey is available in English and Spanish until September 5. It’s voluntary, anonymous, and takes less than 15 minutes to complete. Take the survey at https://bit.ly/WalCoCHA.
Daniel Portwine named to MSOE Dean’s List for Spring Semester 2025 .
MILWAUKEE, WI — Daniel Portwine, from Whitewater, was named to the Milwaukee School of Engineering’s Dean’s List for the 2025 Spring Semester. Portwine is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
MSOE encourages excellence in academic achievement and, as a result, publishes the Dean’s List and Honors List each fall and spring semester. Students taking undergraduate courses who have earned at least 12 credits in residence at MSOE, are in good academic standing, and have a cumulative GPA of 3.20 or higher are on the Dean’s List. Students on that list who have maintained a 3.70 or higher receive “high honors.” Students with a term GPA of 3.20 or higher, who are not on the Dean’s List, are on the Honors List.
Milwaukee School of Engineering (www.msoe.edu) is the university of choice for those seeking an inclusive community of experiential learners driven to solve the complex challenges of today and tomorrow. The independent, non-profit university has about 2,900 students and was founded in 1903. MSOE offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering, business and nursing. Faculty are student-focused experts who bring real-world experience into the classroom. This approach to learning makes students ready now as well as prepared for the future. Longstanding partnerships with business and industry leaders enable students to learn alongside professional mentors, and challenge them to go beyond what’s possible. MSOE graduates are leaders of character, responsible professionals, passionate learners and value creators.
| Gov. Evers Orders Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Former Oneida Nation Chairman Gerald L. “Jerry” Danforth |
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #265 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Sat., June 7, 2025, in honor of former Oneida Nation Chairman Gerald L. “Jerry” Danforth, who passed away on Sat., June 1, 2025, at the age of 78. “Chairman Danforth led the Oneida Nation with integrity, dedication, and a deep commitment to upholding and protecting Tribal sovereignty and culture,” said Gov. Evers. “Kathy and I are sending our deepest condolences to Chairman Danforth’s family and loved ones and the Oneida Nation as they mourn his passing.” Born on the Oneida Reservation, Chairman Danforth served two terms as chairman of the Oneida Nation, first elected in 1999 and then returning as chairman in 2005. As chairman, Danforth prioritized Indian gaming interests and economic development, as well as issues around healthcare, higher education, Oneida language preservation, and expanding communication between the state and the Native Nations. Prior to his tenure as chairman, Danforth led a more than 30-year career in the U.S. Navy, retiring in 1994 as the force master chief of the Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. Danforth also served the Oneida Judiciary as a judge. Services for former Oneida Nation Chairman Gerald L. “Jerry” Danforth will be held on Sat., June 7, 2025, in Oneida. |
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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