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Today is Wednesday, May 13, 2026
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The UW-Whitewater student cast and crew invite you to experience the retelling of the classic Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. “Eurydice” by Sarah Ruhl, directed by Robyn Accetta, offers a hauntingly beautiful reimagining of the tale. In a realm where memory fades and language fractures, Eurydice’s journey becomes one of rediscovery—of self, of love, and of the past she left behind. With poetic depth and striking imagery, this production explores transformation, redemption, and the possibility of renewal, even in the shadows of loss.
Act now to take advantage of our half-price matinee on Saturday, October 4 or our special talkback session on Sunday, October 5. Seats are limited. Don’t miss out—reserve yours today!
Eurydice
by Sarah Ruhl
Directed by Robyn Accetta
Hicklin Studio Theatre
October 3 at 7:30 p.m.
October 4 at 2 p.m.
October 5 at 2 p.m.
October 9 at 7:30 p.m.
October 10 at 7:30 p.m.
October 11 at 2 p.m.
Performances will take place in the Hicklin Studio Theatre located in the Greenhill Center of the Arts, 950 W. Main Street. This production does not include an intermission. There will be no re-entry into the theatre once the show begins. Admission is $18 for adults, $16 for age 65+ and $13 for under age 18. [Tickets are half-price on October 4.] Note that for the Thursday performance a parking fee is charged for use of the university lots. Information is available on the site where tickets may be purchased.
To ensure a smooth, safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, we kindly ask all guests to arrive on time for the performance. The doors close promptly at the listed start time of the performance, and late entry may not be permitted. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!
“Eurydice” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.
Editor’s note: This announcement was received from the UW-Whitewater College of Arts and Communication.
The Walworth County Aging Network (WCAN) will host the annual Senior Resource Fair on Thursday, October 2, from 8 to 11 a.m., at Walworth County Health and Human Services, 1910 County Road NN, Elkhorn. The Fair will feature more than 50 vendors, health screenings, hearing testing, coffee, water, snacks, and awesome raffle prizes. The first 200 attendees will receive two gifts and a valuable Walworth County resource directory.
“We are excited about this year’s Walworth County Senior Resource Fair,” says Walworth County Aging and Disability Resource (ADRC) Manager Randy Kohl. “More than 50 agencies that provide services for older adults will be on hand to share information and answer questions. We have also expanded the number of health screenings provided by Advocate Aurora. Many attendees will win valuable raffle prizes, Walworth County Cycling Without Age will provide bike rides (weather dependent), and ADRC staff will be available to assist with completion of Power of Attorney forms.”
The Walworth County Senior Resource Fair is free and open to the public. Ample free parking is available. For more information regarding the Senior Resource Fair or the Walworth County Aging Network, contact the Walworth County ADRC at (262) 741-3400.
Editor’s note: The above press release was received from the Walworth County Aging Network (WCAN).
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
This week’s image was beloved by late Whitewater Historian Fred Kraege. It is a photo of the crowded Busy Bee restaurant, probably in the 1940s. Fred remembered the Busy Bee as the local “hangout” for many of Whitewater’s mostly male residents. This photo supports this memory.
The Busy Bee was, at that time, operated by Floyd Jolliffe, who purchased the restaurant in 1919 with a partner. In 1947, Jolliffe sold the business, but while he owned it, he was a well-liked member of Whitewater’s downtown business community. Jolliffe was a veteran of World War I, an active member of the American Legion, and during the 1940s, the Busy Bee was an important location for trading and discussing World War II news.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(3711P, Whitewater Historical Society)
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Unites Lives (WUL).
Margaret Wheeler is a WUL Hometown Hero, and was nominated by Tom Ganser for “Donating her time each week to bring joy, laughter and dance to people of all abilities at Studio 84 and with Whitewater’s Parks and Recreation Program.”
Margaret, working in the UW-Whitewater Human Relations unit as a specialist in International Employment & Immigration, began offering the dance program in August, 2022. Over that time, the program has expanded and grown.
Ganser said, “I have seen the Studio 84 dance troupe perform twice at the Whitewater Unified School District Multicultural Program and most recently at First United Methodist Church.”
Margaret also has been offering a class for the Whitewater Parks and Recreation Program, described as: “The student will learn and even help create choreography from iconic dance numbers– from famous Broadway shows such as A Chorus Line, West Side Story, Sweet Charity, 42nd Street, plus more recent musicals. Musical Theatre dance is less of a particular style than a combination of dances rooted in the vibrant history of Broadway musicals. It includes ballet, tap, jazz and modern—all rolled into one!”
Michelle Dujardin, Community Events Programmer, shared, “Margaret Wheeler is amazing and such a great person all around! She has taught classes for us and plans to in the future as well. She is a true gem!!”
WUL (Whitewater Unites Lives) is a locally-focused civil and human rights group that works to connect the people in our community and to create opportunities for all people to learn and support each other in our common humanity.
Anyone who would like to nominate a local hero of any age should send their nomination, with a short description, to whitewaterunites@gmail.com
Each year the Whitewater Arts Alliance is delighted to showcase the outstanding 2D and 3D visual art produced by its members.
The 2025 exhibit opens Thursday, November 6 with a reception Saturday, November 15 at the Cultural Arts Center, 402 West Main Street in Whitewater.
Being eligible to exhibit in the Members’ Show is one of the benefits of WAA membership. There is no fee to enter, and WAA does not deduct commission on sales made during the show.
Advance registration is required using either the online form (recommended) at whitewaterarts.org/2025membersshow or by downloading, printing, and mailing/dropping off the paper entry form at the gallery.
Entries must be received by Sunday, October 26, 2025.
Your Whitewater Whippet Soccer Team came out on the winning side of an evenly matched contest on Tuesday night, September 23, versus Jefferson, 1-0.
Whitewater dominated all aspects of the game but couldn’t find the back of the net. Possession, passing completion, shots on goal, and 50/50s won all went in favor of the Whippets. While piling on the pressure late in the match, Diego Gonzalez made a great run into the box which forced the Jefferson defender into committing a poor tackle, fouling Diego, and seeing a penalty awarded to WHS. Abdi Calvillo slotted the penalty perfectly into the far post corner giving the keeper no chance of a save. With only minutes left, Whitewater kept the pressure on and narrowly missed out on scoring another goal.
Whippet Soccer is back in action at home on Thursday night vs Edgerton.
Where: 329 E. Cravath St., Whitewater
When: Saturday 9/27 – 9a -4p
Details: House, garage, and basement cleanout sale! Everything is $1 unless marked. Women’s clothes size S/M, Men’s clothes size L/XL. Some furniture, priced to sell. Full-size refrigerator in great working condition- $50. Lots of miscellaneous items. Stop and see, there’s something for everyone and we want everything gone!
Where: N5907 State Rd. 89 Delavan (3/4 mile south of Duck Inn).
When: Friday + Saturday 9/26 & 9/27 8am-4pm both days.
Details: Misc household, outdoor items, cookbooks, KitchenAid mixer, misc Christmas, women’s Harley coat/boots, dog toys,
bed and kennel like new.
Updated 9/23/25 @ 11:45 p.m. to add Tom Ganser photos at end of the post.
The Greater Whitewater Committee (GWC)’s 13th annual Discover Whitewater Series (DWS): Half Marathon, Half Marathons Teams, and 5k was a success raising money for local charities.
This year, the DWS team worked hard to put together brand-new maps that allowed runners an exhilarating experience while still highlighting all of the amazing qualities Whitewater has to offer. The entire DWS team wants to give a special thank you to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater; with their help and hospitality, we were able to continue to host this safe and fun community event.
With this new course, runners had the chance to finish the race in the University’s football field, Perkins Stadium, on the 50-yard line! Participants of the 5K got to see some of Whitewater’s’ incredible campus, beautiful nature trails, and lively downtown area! Runners on the new 13.1 course got to experience a significant course in Whitewater’s racing history, as they went along part of Whitewater’s Marathon Qualifiers in the 80s and 90s! Because of these two maps, the 13th annual race was themed as a “Retro Race,” a showcase to the history of Whitewater seen in a new light!
This year, the DWS brought in over 420 participants, 180 volunteers and nearly 70 sponsors. The DWS team was thrilled to welcome runners from so many different states! The weather was nice for the runners with clear skies and temperatures in the upper 60s and low 70s.
Chancellor Corey A. King arrived at the race bright and early Sunday morning to give the welcoming remarks and wished all of the participants a great race. He was joined by Whitewater Unified School District’s new superintendent, Samuel Karns, who helped kick off the exciting day!
Thank you to all of our runners for coming out to participate! A special shout out to all of our top placing racers!
The top runners in the Women’s Half Marathon:
● First Place: 1:18:55.29 – Runner 1786 Jessa Victor
● Second Place: 1:21:04.87- Runner 1771 Jenny Zwagerman
● Third Place: 1:24:40.25- Runner 1775 Jenny Simpson
The top runners in the Men’s Half Marathon:
● First Place: 1:07:51.20 Runner 1626 John Dewitt
● Second Place: 1:09:35.18 Runner 1676 John Liddell
● Third Place: 1:11:13.08 Runner 1636 David Fassbender
The top runners in the Women’s 5K:
● First Place: 23:58.90- Runner 2476 Kate Omernik
● Second Place: 24:12.31- Runner 2456 Kirstin Colligan
● Third Place: 24:12.37- Runner 2459 Jessica Krause
The top runners in the Men’s 5K:
● First Place: 16:57.07- Runner 2423 Tyler Zwagerman
● Second Place: 17:24.02- Runner 2249 Andrew Balistreri
● Third Place: 18:18.85- Runner 2249 Nate Holden
To see all race results, make sure to visit: https://runwhitewater.com/race-results/
Thanks to all of the hard work of our amazing volunteers and sponsors, the 13th Annual DWS proved once again, to achieve its mission of bringing people together in support of a good cause. All proceeds will be distributed to the DWS’ four charity partners: Bethel House of Whitewater, J-Hawk Aquatic Club, Warhawk Athletics through the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Foundation, and Whitewater LEADS. Runners and volunteers joined together after the race to celebrate the day’s accomplishments, enjoying a free beverage from post-race celebration sponsor, 841 Brewhouse.
“I wanted to give a shout out to all of our runners, volunteers, and of course, the University for hosting us,” said Race Director Dawson Miller, “We are all very honored that everyone came together to make this community event possible once again, and we are happy for the overwhelmingly positive feedback on the new course.”
The DWS team would like to thank all who came out in support of the race. The entire community has been a part of such an amazing event that has greatly helped charities across Whitewater.
The Planning Committee is already starting on next year’s race! Save the date for September 20, 2026 for our fourteenth anniversary of the Discover Whitewater Series. Stay tuned for updates – we hope everyone will join us!
Photos below are of the start of the half marathon, from very start to photos as runners passed, courtesy of Tom Ganser.
Photos below are of the start of the 5k,from the very start to runners along the way passing Tom Ganser.
About the DWS
The goal of the DWS is to promote the City of Whitewater and highlight its greatest features, while keeping everyone in the community active. All the proceeds from the race are donated to local non-profit partners: Bethel House (which provides interim housing for homeless families), J-Hawk Aquatic Club, Warhawk Athletics through the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Foundation, and Whitewater LEADS. The DWS partners with the city, business community, and university to make this a tremendous event that benefits all who participate. For more information about the race visit www.runwhitewater.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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