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Today is Monday, May 11, 2026
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It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. Happy May Day! A few years ago we posted a photo of a May Pole with people that were dressed just like the people in this photo. The photos suggest activities that may have been related to May Day celebrations. After a bit of research in the Whitewater Register, it was discovered that in the 1910s, Normal School (UWW) students put on May Day programs that were quite elaborate. This photo and the previously published May pole photo are images probably taken at one of these programs. Celebrating May Day was a popular activity on campus for many years.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(5394PC, Whitewater Historical Society)
The vendors who’ve been inside from late fall to early spring are taking the week off from the Indoor City Market at the Cravath Lakefront Community Center. A larger market will open outside beginning next Tuesday, May 5. Further information will be forthcoming soon.
The Whitewater Public Library has a full calendar of free events for all ages in May! To view all upcoming events, visit whitewaterlibrary.org/events.
Events for all ages:
Coloring Club: Mondays, 5/4, 5/11, 5/18 at 3:30 p.m.
Programa de Crianza Nutritiva [Nurturing Parenting Program] (en espanol): Wednesday, 5/6 at 5:00 p.m.
Multi-Gen Finanzas Familiares (espanol): Thursday, 5/7 at 6:30 p.m.
Family Game Night: Tuesday, 5/12 at 3:30 p.m.
Events for children:
Family Jams: Saturday, 5/2 at 10:30 a.m.
Insect take & make craft starting on Monday, 5/4
Build it! Club: Tuesday, 5/5 at 3:30 p.m.
Storytime: Wednesdays, 5/6, 5/13, 5/20 at 9:30 a.m.
Weird Science – Elephant Toothpaste: Wednesday, 5/13 at 4:00 p.m. (registration required)
Books & Blooms: Fridays, 5/15 and 5/29 at 3:30 p.m.
Events for teens:
Teen Gaming: Thursdays, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 5/28 at 3:30-5:00 p.m.
Teen Dungeons & Dragons: Monday, 5/11 at 5:00-7:00 p.m. (registration required)
Teen Chess Club, Thursday, 5/14 at 6:00 p.m.
Teen DIY – Zines: Wednesday, 5/20 at 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Teen Movie: Wednesday, 5/27 at 4:00-7:00 p.m.
Events for adults and teens:
Library Garden Club: Mondays, 5/4 and 5/18 at 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Makerspace 101 – Cricut: Tuesday, 5/19 at 6:00 p.m. (registration required)
Makerspace 101 – 3D Printing: Thursday, 5/21 at 6:00 p.m. (registration required)
Vinyl Club: Tuesday, 5/26 at 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Magic the Gathering Draft Tournament: Friday, 5/29 at 3:30-6:30 p.m. (registration required)
Events for adults:
Movie & Mocktail: Star Wars: A New Hope on Monday, 5/4 @ 5:00-8:00 p.m.
Tech Tuesdays: 5/5, 5/12, 5/19 at 1:00-2:00 p.m. (registration required)
Tea Time: Wednesday, 5/6 at 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Fiber Friday: 5/8 at 5:00-6:30 p.m.
Red Cross Blood Drive: Friday, 5/15 at 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Adult Dungeons & Dragons: Monday, 5/18 at 5:00-7:00 p.m. (registration required)
Details about all events can be found on the library’s website at whitewaterlibrary.org/events. Some events require registration, which can also be done on the library’s website or by contacting the library. All library programs are always free and open to the public.
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.
The Walworth/Jefferson Chapter of the Ice Age Trail has organized two family friendly hikes in honor of our neighboring city, Palmyra, becoming an Ice Age Trail Community!
Join us for a pre-Mother’s Day hike on May 3. Yes, Mother’s Day is actually on May 10.
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by the Walworth/Jefferson Chapter of the Ice Age Trail.
Congratulations to the Culinary Team of Mady Stevens, Emma Valadez and Karlee Korbel Villegas on being chosen as honorable mention in the DPI Whipping Up Challenge Culinary Competition. Their recipe, Southwestern Lime Chicken Rice Bowl will be featured in the DPI cookbook for 2026-27. The girls had to create a healthy entree that could be potentially served in our school lunch program. The team is coached by Lynn Weilbrenner.
Article and Photos Submitted by Lynn Weilbrenner
Whitewater High School Family and Consumer Science Teacher
lweilbrenner@wwusd.org
Family Jams at the Whitewater Public Library
Calling all music makers! Kids and families are invited to “Family Jams: Music, Movement, and Instrument Exploration” at the Whitewater Public Library on Saturday, May 2 at 10:30 a.m. in Meeting Room 1. Explore world instruments in the “Instrument Lab,” dance and move to expressive music, and make music together at “Family Jams,” a memorable music & movement experience for the whole family. All ages welcome! There is no cost or registration.
10:30-11:00: Instrument Lab: everyone can freely explore and “jam” with a variety of world instruments.
11:00-11:45: Music and Movement “Family Jams” — dance and create music together as a group.
The class is taught by Noelle Larson, a Board-Certified Music Therapist, graduate of Whitewater High School and Berklee College of Music, and the owner of Circle of Song Music Therapy, LLC. Noelle has a passion for helping clients and participants to “Connect, Thrive, and Come Alive Through Music,” strengthen family relationships, learn adaptive coping strategies, and experience wonder and joy through the delight of participating in live music making.
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.
Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Studio 84.
Written by Lalaina Chandanais | Photos submitted
Being a writer is much more than just the ability to arrange words on a page. It is capturing moments, invoking feelings, and communicating effectively in a wide variety of situations.
Monica Cull, a University of Wisconsin-Whitewater graduate from Hartford, Wisconsin, has always considered herself a writer. Having been drawn to writing travel blogs and other forms of journalistic writing since she was young, she knew that she wanted to go into a career that would allow her skill with words to flourish.
As a first-generation college student whose parents both worked in trade careers, Cull’s educational journey was a winding path. Prior to her time at UW-Whitewater, she attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee at Washington County, an institution that prepared students to transfer to a four-year university.
In 2014, Cull made the decision to become a Warhawk, a choice that was fueled by both a care for her family back at home and a deep desire to pursue her passion for writing — she eventually declared majors in both English (creative writing) and journalism.
“During that time, it was hard to be away from my family. The campus was easy to commute to, so I could still be there to support them,” said Cull. “I also knew that Whitewater had a really good creative writing program.”
From the moment she began at the UW-Whitewater campus, it became clear to Cull that she was entering an era of her life that would be filled with endless opportunities and connections. It did not take long before it “felt like home.”
Finding her niche
While Cull knew she wanted to pursue an English degree, it was hard to decide from the many possible routes the major afforded her.
Cull stated that it was the individualized support from faculty members of the creative writing department who helped her discover the kinds of writing that excited her. Professors such as Donald Jellerson, Deborah Fratz, and Holly Wilson — associate professors of literature, writing, and film — played large roles in her journey as a student writer.
“The professors really make the program stand out. A lot of the classes teach you how to be a more versatile writer, and how to use creative writing skills in the real world,” said Cull. “I have emailed my professors after graduation, and they have given me advice. It is clear that they want to see their students succeed.”
The well-rounded writing education Cull received allowed her to experiment with writing in a variety of different formats. She discovered newfound confidence in areas such as interviewing, social media writing, screenwriting, and more — all of which she was able to translate into her professional career.
In 2017, Cull was offered a chance to spend a semester studying communications and journalism in Dalkeith, Scotland, through the Experience Scotland program. She jumped at the opportunity.
“Studying abroad was the best thing I’ve ever done in my whole life,” said Cull. “I met my fiancé there, and it made me realize that being a writer can give you the flexibility to write from anywhere.”
From student to professional editor
Right after Cull graduated in 2019, she was hired as an intern at Cream City Marketing and was able to immediately apply the versatile writing skills she developed during her undergraduate career to work her way up to a copywriter position.
“I remember being about to graduate and people were concerned about finding jobs. With my creative writing background, I was able to get a job in marketing,” said Cull. “These skills propelled me into my journalism career.”
After four years of working at the marketing agency, Cull saw an opening in a nearby town for an assistant editor position at Discover Magazine, a science magazine that publishes articles on new scientific developments. Her multifaceted talents in both creative writing and journalism made her stand out as a candidate, and she landed the job.
“I took a huge risk,” said Cull. “I am not a huge city person, and to find a job in journalism in Waukesha was crazy, so I applied.”
Cull now works as the digital editor for Discover, editing stories from freelance writers along with writing her own. Through this position, she sees her writing education translate directly into her daily work. She has also found herself forming connections with — and learning from — people she had never thought she would meet.
Cull interviewed nationally renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson in 2023 for her article “Sci-Fi and Bringing Back the Mammoth with Neil deGrasse Tyson,” which she refers to as the highlight of her career.
“I never thought I would be a science journalist. It is a good example of how having skills like script writing and other versatile writing abilities is important,” said Cull.
With the rise of artificial intelligence, current and incoming creative writing students may be worried about what the future of professional writing careers may look like. Cull argues that, on the contrary, the need for strong writers in the world is greater than ever.
“I think it will become even more critical to have people who know how to write well and consistently,” said Cull. “Don’t give up and don’t be afraid to try different kinds of writing. Newscasters and podcasts need people to write for them, too.”
Sometimes a few simple words change how we look at things.
When thinking back on the most influential moments that fueled her to continue writing, Cull recalls what her friend from UW-Whitewater said to her during a moment of uncertainty — one small, pivotal phrase that stuck with her.
“Someone has to do it. Why not you?”
Obituaries
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
Carol Ann Seebruch, 88 of Whitewater passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, April 3, 2026. Carol was born July 12, 1937 in Chicago IL to William and Ann Borovec. She married Marvin Seebruch on June 9, 1984. Carol and Marvin enjoyed traveling the United States making it to 48 of the 50 states. She also enjoyed her time with the Red Hat Ladies. She loved taking pictures of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Carol is survived by her three children; Bill Anderson of Fort Atkinson, WI, Terri Laban of Whitewater, WI, and Donna (Mike) Jones of Crivitz, WI. She … Read more
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