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“While it is pleasant to renew acquaintance with numbers such as ‘All That Jazz’ and ‘Razzle Dazzle,’ everything is exactly as I remember it from 1997.”
– The Guardian
“Fosse’s world along with the glamour and crime of 1924 are brought to life through a defiant and thrilling world of dance.”
– The Edinburgh Reporter
CHICAGO is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one show stopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen. No wonder CHICAGO has been honored with 6 Tony Awards®, 2 Olivier Awards, a Grammy®, and thousands of standing ovations. As we celebrate our 29th anniversary —you’ve got to come see why the name on everyone’s lips is still… CHICAGO.
With a legendary book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb, CHICAGO is now the #1 longest-running American musical in Broadway history — and it still shows no sign of ever slowing down!
Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, CHICAGO is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who maliciously murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be ripped from today’s tabloids.
It’s no surprise that CHICAGO has wowed audiences from Mexico City to Moscow, from Sao Paulo to South Africa. And now it’s coming to your town!
Whether you’re looking for your first Broadway musical, whether you’ve seen the Academy Award®-winning film and want to experience the show live on stage or whether you’ve seen it before and want to recapture the magic, CHICAGO always delivers!
CHICAGO is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one show stopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen.
In the whirlwind of Chicago’s Jazz Age, two of the Cook County Jail’s most notorious murderesses—vaudeville star Velma Kelly and chorus girl Roxie Hart—become fierce rivals as they compete for headlines amidst a media frenzy.
Broadway’s longest-running hit, CHICAGO, delivers sizzling songs, dazzling dance, all that jazz—join the razzle dazzle and get your tickets today!
[The above is from chicagoontour.com.]
The brief promotional video may be viewed here.
At the Young Performing Arts Center – Wednesday, February 4 @ 7:00 p.m.
The Young Performing Arts Center is located at 930 W. Main Street, Whitewater. Parking is free. Turn north on Prince Street from Main Street. The parking lots will be on the right side. The second lot, #2, generally has the most convenient parking to the venue.
Tickets are available online here for $25-85, tax and fees included. Most of the prime seats on the main floor have been sold; however, most of the seats in the balcony are still available. The balcony is accessible by elevator.
Tickets may also be purchased at the Ticket Services Box Office in the Greenhill Center for the Arts, 950 W. Main Street. The phone number is 262-472-2222. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Tickets may also be purchased at the door for an additional $3 service charge.
The Whitewater Unified School District is launching a strategic planning process to gather community input and set priorities that will guide the district over the next three to five years.
The process will begin with a brief community survey, open from January 9 through January 30, inviting input from students, families, staff, and community members. Feedback collected through the survey will help inform the district’s strategic direction and ensure future planning reflects the needs and priorities of the broader school community. The survey is available at https://dgsurveys.com/r/Whitewater2026.
Input from the survey will guide the work of a Strategic Planning Workgroup, which will meet several times throughout the process to help shape the district’s vision, core values, and strategic priorities. Additional opportunities for engagement will include focus groups and community engagement sessions designed to gather deeper insight and encourage broad participation.
“We are committed to hearing directly from our students, staff, families, and community as we plan for the future,” said Superintendent Samuel Karns. “This process will help us build on our district’s strengths, address areas for growth, and make sure our strategic priorities reflect the voices of those we serve.”
A guiding theme of the strategic planning is “All Means All,” a commitment to ensuring every student is seen, heard, and supported. The district aims to create an accessible process that reflects the full diversity of the school community and engages participants across all backgrounds and experiences.
Updates and additional information about the strategic planning process will be shared throughout the coming months. For more information, visit www.wwusd.org.
Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the homepage by Andreas Breitling from Pixabay.
Marc DeVries
Marc DeVries Honored as a 2026 BizTimes Media Notable CFO
Jefferson County Finance Director Marc DeVries has been named to the 2026 BizTimes Media Notable CFO list. DeVries is one of nine chief financial officers from southeastern Wisconsin to receive the honor, which recognizes finance professionals who demonstrate excellence within the field, effect change within their organization or industry and give back through civic or community service.
“As Finance Director for our county, Marc oversees an annual budget with more than 6,000 accounts and provides excellent leadership for our committee,” said Dick Jones, Jefferson County Supervisor and Chair of the Jefferson County Finance Committee. “Marc ensures that our actions and decisions are in agreement with the county’s financial goals, and he keeps us apprised of future trends that may impact our work.”
DeVries, who has 31 years of financial experience, joined Jefferson County in 2017. In addition to preparing and managing a budget that impacts nearly 700 employees and 85,000 residents, he led a priority-based initiative to align county spending with community priorities and completed a risk-based reserve study to inform implementation of a proactive approach to potential financial risks.
“On behalf of all our employees and everyone who works with him, I am thrilled that Marc has received this award,” said County Administrator Michael Luckey. “He has consistently stewarded our finances to provide a high quality of life for our communities. Under Marc’s fiscal leadership, we are well-positioned to excel at delivering the services our residents need and deserve from their tax dollars.”
To read the full BizTimes profile of Marc DeVries: https://biztimes.com/notable-cfos-marc-devries/
For more about Jefferson County: jeffersoncountywi.gov
W-Eau Claire fall dean’s list announced
The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is proud to recognize the outstanding academic achievements of the Blugolds who have earned a place on the Dean’s List. Their commitment to excellence exemplifies the highest standards of scholarship at UW-Eau Claire. Congratulations on this remarkable accomplishment!
Eligibility Requirements
At the end of each semester, each of UW-Eau Claire’s four colleges recognize excellence in scholastic achievement by publishing the Dean’s List. To be eligible, a student must: – be in good academic standing. – have a minimum semester GPA of 3.70. – have completed at least 12 credits during the semester, with no incompletes, no courses below the 100 level, no repeats, and no Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory registrations (except in degree credit-bearing courses that are offered only on the S/U grading system in which a grade of S has been earned).
The student from your area who was named to the Dean’s List is:
Whitewater, WI
Alex Meyer, College of Business
Big Foot beat Whitewater 53-41 in a RVC girls’ basketball crossover game on Tuesday, January 27. Big Foot jumped out to an early 14-2 lead before Whitewater went on a 12-6 run to cut the lead to six towards the end of the first half. Whitewater was able to pull within eight with a few minutes remaining but was not able to get it any closer. Emery Kachel led Whitewater with 23 points while Leah Paulsen led Big Foot with 29.
Whitewater plays at Turner on Friday, January 30.
Article Submitted by Mike Dowden
Whitewater High School Head Girls’ Basketball Coach
dowmi01@wwusd.org
Cover for Issue One of “Either/Or”
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater will hold an official release party for “Either/Or,” a new national literary journal, on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at Roberta’s Gallery on the first floor of the James R. Connor University Center.
Produced by faculty and undergraduate students in the university’s Department of Literature, Writing, and Film, the release marks a new chapter for the region’s arts scene by including internationally acclaimed novelists.
While many national journals are housed at the graduate level, “Either/Or” places the editorial, design, and production process in the hands of UW-Whitewater undergraduates. Under the vision and mentorship of UW-Whitewater faculty members Nicholas Gulig, a former Wisconsin Poet Laureate, and Barrett Swanson, an acclaimed essayist, the students involved in “Either/Or” compiled a powerhouse roster of contributors. Lauren Groff, National Book Award finalist, Sheila Heti, acclaimed novelist and Guggenheim Fellow, Claire Vaye Watkins, Story Prize winner, and Becca Rothfeld, non-fiction critic for The Washington Post, are among those featured.
The release party offers the local community a first look at a journal that bridges the gap between UW-Whitewater undergraduate students and the highest tiers of the contemporary literary world.
The release party is open and free to the public. Appetizers and light refreshments will be served. Registration is not required, but it is encouraged at this link. “Either/Or” is available for purchase at www.eitherormagazine.com.
The Department of Literature, Writing, and Film at UW-Whitewater offers a robust Creative Writing program alongside majors in Literature, English Education, Professional Writing and Publishing, and Film Studies.
On Monday, January 26, WHS students were selected and performed with the Rock Valley Conference Honors Band. These students were selected because of their hard work and dedication to music at WHS. They spent all day working with renowned conductor and educator Carrie Backman and performed a concert in the evening! Congratulations to these exceptional students!
Article and Photos Courtesy of Sam Averill
Whitewater High School Band Director
saverill@wwusd.org
FREE FINANCIAL FREEDOM WORKSHOP
WHITEWATER, WI—Community members are invited to a free Financial Freedom workshop with Denise Maple of Live Life Spiritual Direction. The event will take place at the Whitewater Public Library in Meeting Room 1 on Tuesday, February 3 at 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Prosperity and wealth are possible for everyone. Often, our conditioning growing up or past experiences tell us the lie that abundance is not for us. Learn how to overcome these false beliefs to live a life of prosperity in your finances, relationships, and more.
Please join us for an enlightening and transformative gathering aimed at helping individuals harness the power of their mindset and actions to manifest abundance and prosperity in their financial lives. This workshop offers mind shifting exercises and practical strategies to enhance one’s relationship with money and create a positive money mindset.
During the workshop, participants engage in various activities and teachings that guide them toward a deeper understanding of their beliefs, attitudes, and habits around money.
Through guided meditations, visualization exercises, and introspective discussions, participants learn to identify and release any limiting beliefs or negative patterns that may be blocking their financial success. They discover how to cultivate a positive and empowered mindset, aligning their thoughts, emotions, and actions with the abundance they desire.
The workshop offers practical tools and strategies to help individuals set clear financial goals, create effective action plans, and cultivate healthy financial habits. It also fosters a supportive and nurturing environment where individuals can connect with like-minded individuals who are also on a journey of spiritual and financial growth.
This workshop is for adults. Registration is requested but not required. Please register in advance at whitewaterlibrary.org/events or by contacting the library.
You can learn more about the facilitator, Denise Maple, at livelifespiritual.com.
The Whitewater Public Library is located at 431 W. Center Street in Whitewater. For more information, visit whitewaterlibrary.org, email library@whitewater-wi.gov or call 262-473-0530.
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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