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Today is Tuesday, May 12, 2026
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Cheng Yang, 20, of 1128 B W. Florence St, Whitewater, has been charged with a hit and run – injury, a felony.
Harling Gamez Rodriguez, 24, of 424 W Forest Ave, Whitewater, has been charged with possession of narcotic drugs, a felony.
Jose A Morales, 46, of 494 W. Whitewater Street, Whitewater, has been charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence – fifth offense, a felony.
Editor’s note: These cases have not been concluded. Unless a judgment of conviction is entered, each defendant is presumed innocent of all charges.
After hosting three large wrestling tournaments this season, the Whippets had the opportunity to host their first dual meet of the season on Thursday night. The Monroe Cheesemakers made their way to Whitewater to participate in a first ever dual meet against each other. Whitewater has often seen Monroe in tournaments but due to distance never scheduled a dual meet. This all changed as Monroe and Whitewater are both part of the Rock Valley Conference in the Rock Division. The coaching staff knew this was going to be a challenging home dual meet as Monroe has a very solid team this year.
The dual started off at 138 pounds where Curtis Rossmiller came out strong but could not keep up the pace against a defending state qualifier and ended up getting pinned in the match. Traysen Thomason (144) followed up with a very well wrestled match picking up the decision to get the Whippets on the board. After a couple of weights going against the Whippets, Sebastian Cuellar (165) got things moving in the right direction for Whitewater in a tough match, coming up with a big pin to put the home team down 9-17. Jesus Barajas (175) followed with a very good match, nearly pinning his opponent on a couple of occasions but ended up getting a 10-3 victory and closing the gap to 12-17. Payton Lyon (190) put the Whippets on top with a second period pin. Ethan Barels followed with a very hard fought match coming up just short before Junior Soto got a forfeit at heavyweight putting the Whippets up 24-20 with five weights to go. At 113 Jasen Porras had the opportunity to see his way back on the mat after an early season injury, wrestling a very good match winning 8-4 and putting the Whippets up 27-24 with three to go. Jarvis Porcaro (120) got a major decision 12-4. Freshman Brady Friend walked out on the mat knowing that a victory by him would seal the win for the home team. Brady showed lots of grit, wrestling potentially the best match of the season winning 7-4 and sealing the win for the Whippets 34-25. The win improved their record to 7-1 on season and 3-0 in the conference.
The team is next in action on Thursday night, January 18, when they host the Jefferson Eagles. This will mark both Parents Night and Senior Night for the team. JV will start at 6:00 with the varsity competing at 7:00. The team would love to see a packed house in their battle against Jefferson.
Article and Photo Submitted by John Schimming
Whitewater High School Head Wrestling Coach
jschimming@wwusd.org
As a lifelong educator, now retired, I hope to lend my experience and passion for public school education to my local school board. Having worked as a coach, teacher, principal and superintendent I am well aware of the changing cycles within education. As a parent I saw my sons benefit from quality instruction as they both graduated from Whitewater High School and moved into success in college and their professional careers. I want the best possible experience for every student in the Whitewater schools.
School boards across Wisconsin have been handcuffed by an archaic funding system built upon a formula based on 1993 spending limits. Local taxpayers have been dealt an ever increasing burden where local referendums become necessary just to maintain existing programs. Funding limits cause school leadership to become more creative while teacher pay and benefits fall further behind other costs of living.
While our district is striving to retain quality educators, the challenges grow with each passing year. Valuing staff is crucial. Where salaries may not be competitive with other fields; appreciation, recognition and support can help offset those fiscal gaps.
It is my intention to make every effort to build trust in our school leadership. Open transparent honest actions are one of the key ways to build that trust. Open communication, a reduction of closed meetings and involving all pertinent stakeholders in decision making is how this is accomplished.
Having lived in Whitewater for eighteen years, my family has benefitted greatly from all it has to offer. My hope, if the electorate will give me the opportunity, is to give back to this very special district and community with my passion for education.
I can be contacted for more information or to respond to any question or concerns by email or text.
Yours in Education, Jeff Tortomasi rocktorto@gmail.com cell/text 715-905-0909
Editor’s note: The above announcement was provided by Jeff Tortomasi. The use of the Whitewater Unified School District logo on the homepage should not be construed to imply endorsement by the district.
In an effort to cultivate a sense of community engagement and fulfill graduation requirements, Whitewater High School proudly announces the success of its recent afternoon of service projects in recognition of MLK Day. Staff and students worked collaboratively to create meaningful opportunities for service learning that positively impacted our community.
Through a collaborative effort between dedicated staff and enthusiastic students, WHS successfully implemented a diverse range of service projects. From environmental initiatives to outreach programs, students were able to choose projects aligned with their interests, creating a dynamic and impactful experience for all involved. The Whippets’ first day of service learning demonstrates our commitment to fostering not only academic excellence but also in nurturing responsible, compassionate citizens who actively contribute to the well-being of our community.
The success of these service projects extends beyond fulfilling graduation requirements; it leaves a lasting impact on the community and fosters a sense of accomplishment among the participating students. WHS looks forward to building on this success in future service-learning initiatives, continuing to empower students to make a positive difference in the world around them.
Article Submitted by Kate McNulty, Whitewater High School
kmcnulty@wwusd.org
Photos Courtesy of Laura Masbruch, LouLou Wade, and Kiana Aranda
Our in-office pantry has received tons of toiletry donations over the past month!
For those who aren’t aware, we have a pantry in our office’s back room (at 133 S. Franklin Street – Whitewater), where any community member can pick up toiletry/household items. We do not require an application or any documentation for a person to utilize this service. It is here, free of charge, for anyone needing extra support. The Bethel House client pantry is available during open office hours: Mon-Thurs 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Please note if staff is out or meeting with clients, the pantry may not be accessible, so it is best to schedule an appointment by calling 262.473.2715 or emailing casemanager.bethelhouse@gmail.com.
A special thank you to the following individuals/groups for their recent donations (including a handful of anonymous donations dropped off/sent to us):
Stephanie McDonald & her network of friends/colleagues
UW-Whitewater Circle K (@uwwcirclek)
St. Patrick Catholic Church
First United Methodist Church of Whitewater
First English Lutheran Church – Whitewater
Donations are always welcome! Our most needed items right now are: toilet paper, paper towels, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, hand soap, cleaning wipes/sprays, bandaids/first aid items, and body wash. We are NOT in need of toothbrushes, toothpaste or bar soap. We keep updated details on our website (along with “kit” donation ideas) here: http://www.bethelhouseinc.org/donate.html
International performer, and Whitewater local, Andreas Transø will share stories, songs, and more at The Wright House in Whitewater on Friday, January 19 at 7 p.m.
In a performance with Andreas, you can expect everything from poetry to spoons playing, ancient ballads to original songs…all woven with bits of history and good humored jokes. Prepare for an embracing and jolly performance, with tears from laughter or inspired by swelling powerful performances of beautiful stories gathered and well-toned by an experienced and ever-ripening young seanchaí.
Link for registration: jollyseanchai.eventbrite.com
The National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan Weather Forecast Office has issued yet one more Wind Chill Advisory, continuing until 9 a.m. on Wednesday. They indicate that the coldest chills will be from late Monday night until Tuesday morning.
Green Bay Packers at San Francisco 49ers
7 p.m. CST| Fox
The Green Bay Packers pulled off a massive 48-32 upset win over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday as the No. 7 seed in the NFC. As a result, they’ll head to the Bay Area to take on the top-seeded 49ers on Saturday night.
Five takeaways on packers.com
Homepage image: Aaron Jones from packers.com
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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