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Recent Criminal Charges in Walworth County Circuit Court

May 2, 2025

The following individuals have been criminally charged in Walworth County Circuit Court. Only alleged offenses that are charged as felonies are listed.

Yair Hernandez Rivera, 21, of N407 County Trunk N, Whitewater, has been charged with battery or threat to judge, prosecutor or law enforcement officer, and throwing or discharging bodily fluids at a public safety officer or prosecutor.

Kimberly J Voegeli, 62, of 720 W. Walworth Ave., Whitewater, has been charged with maintain a drug trafficking place, PTAC, and possession of narcotic drugs, PTAC.

Craig O Voegeli, 66, of 720 W. Walworth Ave., Whitewater, has been charged with maintain a drug trafficking place, PTAC, and possession of narcotic drugs, PTAC.

Tanya J Voegeli, 38, of 720 W. Walworth Ave., Whitewater, has been charged with possession of narcotic drugs.

Austin M Voegeli, 21, of 608B S. Franklin St., Whitewater, has been charged with neglecting a child – no harm and child under 6 years or disability.

Alicia A Zamora, 27, of 608B S. Franklin St., Whitewater, has been charged with neglecting a child – no harm and child under 6 years or disability.

Noaa J Belasic, 27, of 720 W. Walworth Ave., Whitewater, has been charged with possession of narcotic drugs.

James R. Braya, 44, of 720 W. Walworth Ave., Whitewater, has been charged with possession of narcotic drugs and maintaining a drug trafficking place.

Editor’s notes: The above information is taken from the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access website.

PTAC is an abbreviation for “party to a crime.” Party to a crime is a legal term that alleges that someone who was not the primary actor in a crime was ready, willing, and able to assist in the commission of the offense.

It is a cardinal principle of our system of justice that every person accused of a crime is presumed to be innocent unless and until his or her guilt is established beyond a reasonable doubt.

Farmers Market Season Opens Saturday

May 2, 2025

The Saturday City Market at Cravath Lakefront Community Center has ended for its season, but the Farmers Market will pick up where the City Market left off (well, not exactly.) Beginning on Saturday, May 3, the Farmers Market will be open from 8 a.m. to noon, 301 W. Whitewater Street, in the parking lot next to the historic Train Depot. This early in the season, of course, the produce selection will be limited, but there are likely to also be eggs, baked goods, and a variety of other items.

The City Market will be back at the Train Depot beginning on Tuesday, May 6 from 4-7 p.m. Their announcement will be forthcoming soon.

Walworth Ave. Repaving Project Starts Fri.: Road closed west of stoplight / Cierre de carretera

May 1, 2025


The first phase of the Walworth Avenue repaving project is scheduled to start Friday, May 2.

Walworth Avenue/CTH N will be closed from State Highway 12 west to the City Limits. The closure is anticipated to last through the end of May. Work in phase 1 includes concrete curb replacement and milling and repaving of the asphalt surface. The road will be closed to all traffic. The detour will include State Highway 59 and State Highway 26.

Phase 2 of the Walworth Avenue repaving project will begin after the Whitewater Unified School District is completed with their spring semester. During phase 2, Walworth Avenue will be closed to thru traffic from State Highway 12 to Janesville Street. Local access and access to the Whitewater High School and the Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center will be maintained via side streets.

For questions regarding the project please contact the Department of Public Works. Brad Marquardt
Director of Public Works
(262) 473-0139

El proyecto de repavimentación de Walworth Avenue comenzará el viernes 2 de mayo.

La primera fase del proyecto de repavimentación de la Avenida Walworth está
programada para comenzar el viernes 2 de mayo. Walworth Avenue/CTH N estará cerrada
desde la autopista estatal 12 hacia el oeste hasta los límites de la ciudad. Se prevé que el
cierre dure hasta finales de mayo. Los trabajos de la fase 1 incluyen el reemplazo de
bordillos de concreto y el fresado y repavimentación de la superficie de asfalto. La
carretera estará cerrada a todo el tráfico. El desvío incluirá la Carretera Estatal 59 y la
Carretera Estatal 26.

La Fase 2 del proyecto de repavimentación de la Avenida Walworth comenzará después de
que el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Whitewater termine su semestre de primavera.
Durante la fase 2, Walworth Avenue estará cerrada al tráfico desde la autopista estatal 12
hasta la calle Janesville. El acceso local y el acceso a la Escuela Secundaria Whitewater y
al Centro Acuático y de Fitness Whitewater se mantendrán a través de calles laterales.

Si tiene preguntas sobre el proyecto, comuníquese con el Departamento de Obras Públicas.
Brad Marquardt
Director de Obras Públicas
(262) 473-0139
bmarquardt@whitewater-wi.gov

“Spring Splash” Returns on Saturday

May 1, 2025

“Spring Splash, an unofficial annual event in anticipation of warmer weather and the conclusion of the UW-Whitewater academic year, is taking place on Saturday, May 3. Event participants are primarily UW-W students and friends. Spring Splash has no official connection with UW-W. An organization known as “Wisconsin Red” publicized the early versions of the event in 2013 through 2015 with relatively few problems. In 2016, however, as social media spread word of the event, crowds became large and unmanageable. Problems included public drunkenness, disorderly conduct and large-scale litter. Wisconsin Red pulled its formal sponsorship of Spring Splash in 2017, and their involvement now appears to be limited to online merchandise sales.

In recent years the event has gone forward with less issues than once occurred, but the Whitewater Police Department annually requests mutual aid on a prescheduled basis from the county sheriff’s departments and nearby municipal police departments. Whitewater Police Chief Dan Meyer posted the following notice on the department’s Facebook page this week: “We’d like to inform the public that on Saturday, May 3rd, there will be increased law enforcement presence in the City of Whitewater in response to Spring Splash. Our goal is to maintain public safety and order, and we rely heavily on the community in order to accomplish that. As always, dial 911 if you have an emergency, and contact the Whitewater Police Department at 262-473-0555 option #4 to request a non-emergent police response. Thank you for helping us ensure a safe environment for everyone.”

UW-W Music Dept. Closes Year with a Few More Events

May 1, 2025

Whitewater Symphony Orchestra 

Saturday, May 03, 2025 @ 7:30 PM
The Young Performing Arts Center
930 W Main St

Experience the brilliance of the esteemed Whitewater Symphony Orchestra. Immerse yourself in a captivating symphonic journey as the orchestra’s harmonious blend of woodwinds, brass, percussion and strings come together to bring classical masterworks and modern-day compositions to life. With their unrivaled talent and dedication to musical excellence, the WSO promises an unforgettable performance that will leave you awe-inspired. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Tickets may be purchased online or at the Ticket Services office in the Greenhill Center for the Arts, 950 W. Main Street, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Tickets purchased at the door are subject to a $2 surcharge.

Symphonic Wind Ensemble & Friends 

Sunday, May 04, 2025 @ 3:00 PM
The Young Performing Arts Center
930 W Main St.

Join us for the Symphonic Wind Ensemble’s post Carnegie Hall performance featuring two of our outstanding faculty members. Dr. Carson King-Fournier performs the jazz-influenced “Concerto for Trombone” by Dana Wilson and Dr. Diana Shapiro performs Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” in a delayed celebration of the work’s centennial. You don’t want to miss this spectacular combination of jazz and classical music! Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Tickets may be purchased online or at the Ticket Services office in the Greenhill Center for the Arts, 950 W. Main Street, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Tickets purchased at the door are subject to a $2 surcharge.

Chamber Singers and Vocal Jazz 

Sunday, May 04, 2025 @ 7:30 PM
Light Recital Hall
950 W Main St.

Experience the vocal mastery of the Chamber Singers and Vocal Jazz groups as they come together for an exciting evening of music. Featuring student conductors, this concert promises to be an eclectic celebration of vocal talent. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18. Tickets may be purchased online or at the Ticket Services office in the Greenhill Center for the Arts, 950 W. Main Street, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Tickets purchased at the door are subject to a $2 surcharge.

UW-W’s “Make a Difference Day”: A Day of Community Service and Unity

May 1, 2025
Sophia Garbelman, Riley Smith, Lexi Subotnik, Anna Pineda, Ashley Sparrow

By Pat Blackmer
President of the Whitewater Federation of Women’s Clubs

Make a Difference Day is an event at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, held annually to inspire and mobilize the campus community to engage in meaningful service activities. This day is dedicated to fostering a spirit of volunteerism and collective action, aiming to create a lasting impact on the local community and beyond.

The Whitewater Federation of Women’s Clubs was fortunate to have a group of young ladies who volunteered to assist club members with the annual spring landscape clean-up at the historic Bassett House on Friday, April 25th . With their assistance,
leaves were raked, weeds were pulled and bushes were trimmed.

UW-Whitewater’s Make a Difference Day exemplifies the power of collective action and the positive influence of community service. By uniting students and local residents in purposeful activities, this event not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a culture of empathy and proactive engagement. As it continues to grow and evolve, Make a Difference Day will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of UW-Whitewater’s commitment to making a meaningful difference in the world.

Warhawks Give- 1868 Minutes to Give: April 30 9 a.m.- May 1 4 p.m.

April 30, 2025

Warhawks Give is happening April 30 at 9 a.m. – May 1 at 4 p.m., and we’re celebrating 1868 Minutes to Give—honoring the year UW-Whitewater was founded in 1868 and the generations of Warhawks who have shaped its legacy.

For 1868 minutes, alumni, donors, and friends will come together to support the students, programs, and initiatives that make UW-Whitewater special. Your gift—no matter the size—helps provide scholarships, enhance campus experiences, and strengthen the future of our university. Join us in making an impact today!

Click on this link to see the progress of the campaign, specific funds that may be designated for a gift, and a video about what makes UW-Whitewater so special.

Whitewater Music Boosters – May meeting & ways to get involved

April 30, 2025

The Whitewater Music Boosters is holding its next monthly meeting on Monday, May 5th from 5:30-6:30 PM. Join us at WHS – Room 403 or via Google Meet at the following link: https://meet.google.com/fko-afzc-hxa.

Agenda, Past Minutes and Other Documents:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TuBl93A6i-eHoumy9RN1HDvYWYLHdbeN?usp=sharing

Constitution:https://docs.google.com/document/d/176FiAPf8aBMIY6qAUMseCVGTBSoBRencaSgcpmIwuek/edit?usp=sharing

Ways to get involved: 

Way #1: Run for a seat on the Board! The positions of President, Treasurer, and Sponsorships/Fundraising Chair are up for election at the upcoming meeting. Position descriptions are in the Constitution.

Way #2:
Volunteer! 

Whitewater music events frequently need your assistance. Look for other opportunities from Whitewater Music Boosters and from teachers. Volunteering is a great way to support students in their music experience.

Way #3:

Donate/Fundraise! In addition to supporting student activities through volunteering, Music Boosters supports the growth of students through sponsoring music related activities and providing monetary support for instruments, uniforms, and other needed items that aren’t budgeted for. Donors are recognized on social media and through the programs at district music events but can also donate anonymously if it’s preferred.

Donate/Share Form here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qkxHs1iNBujuaWKY7SqiDjH4QjZQ5dg2/view?usp=drive_link

Obituaries

Obituary: Lawrence “Larry” C. Hartung, 76, of Fort Atkinson

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

Obituary: Leo E. Wurzer, 65, of Eagle

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

Obituary: Lois Cummings, 99, of Fond du Lac

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

Celebration of Life: William Kincaid

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!

Obituary: Gladys Jean (Riley) Hildebrandt, 89, of Milwaukee

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

Obituary: Nancy “Nan” Rowley, 90

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

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

Obituary: Ruth I. (Phelps) Justis, 88, of MO

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

Obituary: Dorothy C. Kau, 101, of Eagle

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

Obituary: Dorothy E. [nee Meyer] Wafle McCracken, 95, of Florida

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