Lynn Binnie

UW President Rothman Visiting UW-W for Talk on Budget 

Jay Rothman


Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman will discuss his 2025-27 budget request and its impact on UW-Whitewater.

Event details: 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27, in Timmerman Auditorium, Hyland Hall. 

Rothman has emphasized that Wisconsin ranks 43rd out of 50 states in public support for four-year universities; the budget request is designed to get the state “Up to the Middle” in national rankings.

The budget request:

  • Emphasizes talent development through student success services.
  • Extends the Wisconsin Tuition Promise to students from families earning up to $71,000 in adjusted gross income.
  • Proposes 5 percent and 3 percent general wage increases for staff and faculty, and requests the state fully fund the increases while adding a merit and market pool.
  • Invests in innovation, including creation of a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Hub.
  • Preserves accessibility while covering inflationary cost increases.

Please join us for this important discussion.

Editor’s note: The following press release on the budget proposal was received last week.

Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman introduces budget request to get Wisconsin “Up to the Middle”

MADISON, Wis.—Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman today proposed a 2025-27 budget request that would allow the state’s public universities to shed its ranking of 43rd of 50 states in public funding and reach the national median.

The two-year request will be presented to the Board of Regents on Thursday. If approved, the request will go to Gov. Tony Evers for consideration in his 2025-27 budget proposal. Editor’s note: The Board of Regents unanimously approved the budget request on August 22.

“It’s time Wisconsin escapes the Bottom 10 in public funding and gets Up to the Middle,” Rothman said. “This budget request will spur innovation in research and teaching, make a degree more affordable for our students most in need, develop talent by focusing on student success, preserve accessibility, and ensure quality.”

Rothman added that under this proposal, he would not recommend tuition increases over the period covered by the biennial budget. Additionally, the funding increase would help preserve branch campus access points for students throughout the state.

Wisconsin ranks 43rd of 50 states in public funding of four-year higher education, according to the latest State Higher Education Finance report by the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association (SHEEO). The figure includes state funding and tuition.

By comparison, surrounding states rank 1 (Illinois), 3 (Michigan), 9 (Iowa), and 10 (Minnesota).

“We won’t win the War for Talent if we don’t get Up to the Middle,” Rothman said. “We’re falling behind after years of neglect, and this budget seeks to address that trend.”

Rothman said it would take an additional $457 million annually to reach the median of states, under the SHEEO report. Among the key features of the proposed budget:

  • Emphasizes talent development through student success services.
  • Extends the Wisconsin Tuition Promise to students from families earning up to $71,000 in adjusted gross income.
  • Proposes 5 percent and 3 percent general wage increases for staff and faculty, and requests the state fully fund the increases while adding a merit and market pool.
  • Invests in innovation, including creation of a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Hub.
  • Preserves accessibility while covering inflationary cost increases.

—

Excessive Heat Warning Mon. 1-7 pm; City Market canceled this week

The National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan Weather Forecast Office has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for Monday from 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. Walworth, Jefferson and Rock Counties are included in the expected hot and humid conditions. Heat and humidity are expected to continue into Tuesday, though perhaps not quite as extreme, with the potential for some cooling if there are storms.

Residents who don’t have air conditioning may wish to seek out a cool place such as the library, which is open until 8:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

City Market Canceled
Lisa Dawsey Smith, Downtown Whitewater Board Chair, stated in a Sunday afternoon announcement, “This is much earlier than I would be considering any weather implications for our upcoming market but given the … message issued by the National Weather service please note that the Tuesday market is Cancelled. Please take care of yourselves and stay safe over the next two days. Thank you all for your efforts in making the market a success week after week, year over year.”


Young Auditorium Unveils: New Brand & New Season

After three decades of enriching the community with outstanding performances and artistic experiences, Young Auditorium is excited to unveil a vibrant new chapter in its storied history. Going forward Young Auditorium will be known as The Young, accompanied by a refreshed logo and a modernized visual identity that celebrates its legacy while embracing its dynamic future.

Since its founding in 1993, Young Auditorium has been a cornerstone of Whitewater and southcentral Wisconsin’s cultural landscape, hosting a diverse array of performances that range from classical to contemporary, and from local talent to international stars. Rebranding to The Young represents a significant evolution in the performing art center’s mission to continue providing exceptional arts experiences while reflecting the growth and energy of the community.

The transition to The Young signifies more than just a new name; it represents a commitment to innovation and inclusivity in the arts. The new identity is designed to better reflect the evolving tastes and expectations of the audience, while maintaining the high standards of excellence that have defined the auditorium for 30 years.

While the name and branding may be changing, the dedication to excellence in the performing arts remains steadfast. The Young will continue to offer a diverse range of performances, educational programs, and community events that inspire, entertain, and connect. Its mission to support and celebrate the arts is as strong as ever.

The Young is located at 930 West Main Street, Whitewater, WI 53190, and parking is always free during your event.

What’s New?

  • New Name: The Young
  • New Logo: A contemporary and artistic design that captures the essence of creativity and community with a nod to the past.
  • Updated Branding: A refreshed color scheme and visual identity that resonates with the vibrant programming and diverse audiences.
  • New Website: TheYoungWhitewater.com

2024-2025 Season

The Young is thrilled to announce its 24-25 Season showcasing a diverse range of productions. They invite theater enthusiasts, avid concertgoers, and families alike to join in this season of programming. Prepare to be captivated, moved, and inspired as The Young continues to deliver unforgettable memories in the hearts of audiences for years to come.

Capitol Fools – 9/20/24 @ 7:00 pm

The Capitol Fools hold up a mirror to our crazy political culture, providing hilarious song parodies and foolish reflections that inspire belly-laughter as both sides of the aisle get skewered. Cast members from past seasons of the Capitol Steps perform all the beloved bits, the mind-boggling backward talking spoonerisms, break-neck costume changes, over-the-top impressions, and song parodies reflecting the day’s news.

Malevo – 9/29/24 @ 7:00 pm

MALEVO: Created by director, choreographer, and dancer Matías Jaime, this thrilling all-male group specializes in Malambo—a traditional Argentine folk dance of great virility and dexterity—and seeks to take it beyond its limits with a modern, avant-garde, and transgressive approach, merging it with other dance styles like flamenco and urban percussion.

After being named an official “Cultural Ambassador to the National Identity of Argentina,” and on the tail of numerous successes including events and performances in Las Vegas, New York, Dubai, Paris, Cairo, St Petersburg and Montreal as well as special performances with Latin pop-star Ricky Martin, Cirque du Soleil, a year-long residency at Universal Studios Japan and making it to semi-finalists on the hit TV show – America’s Got Talent, MALEVO is excited to present a new touring performance created for proscenium theaters of performing arts centers and festivals.

Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox – 11/9/24 @ 7:00 pm

Concertgoers can expect a dazzling, inspiring trip through the PMJ Universe — where modern-day earworms and iconic pop hits alike are reimagined in classic genres like 1920s jazz, Swing, Doo-wop and Motown, and brought to life by a cast of some of the world’s best singers, dancers, and instrumentalists. Think “The Great Gatsby” meets “Sinatra at the Sands” meets “Back! …To The Future.”  

When pianist Scott Bradlee started the time-twisting musical collective from a basement apartment in Queens, NY, an online, “viral” success story was born —one that quickly led to sold out shows across North America and Europe in the Summer of 2014.   The touring act received rave reviews from industry publications and world-renowned artists alike. In the years that followed, “PMJ” built a reputation as the “Saturday Night Live of Singers” by introducing audiences to dozens of exceptional musical artists —many of whom had been previously overlooked by the modern record industry — and turning them into bonafide stars.  

Ten years and two billion views on their YouTube channel later, a Postmodern Jukebox show has become something of an annual musical tradition for hundreds of thousands of dedicated fans all over the world — fans that often show up dressed to the nines in their vintage best, eager to immerse themselves in the experience.

360 AllStars – 11/17/24 @ 7:00 pm

Spinning circles around the competition, 360 ALLSTARS showcases a dream team of sensational champs in a supercharged physical performance celebrating street culture! The international hit will be at The Young with world record-holding athletes and artists showing off their mad skills in freestyle basketball, BMX biking, breakdancing, acrobatics and more. Experience the thrill of extreme sports backed by a pulse-pumping, live-looped soundtrack, and featuring feats that will spike your adrenaline and have you rooting for overtime.

Missoula Children’s Theatre production of The Wizard of Oz – 2/8/25 @ 3:00pm

The story is as familiar as it is beloved. That nasty tornado carries Dorothy and her canine pal Toto from the friendly confines of her Kansas home to a fabled fantasy of mystery in the land of Oz. Our story begins with the Illusionists who set the scene for the tale you are about to witness. With the help of the Munchkins and Glinda herself, the young Miss Gale and her loyal pooch join forces with the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and, of course, the Cowardly Lion. Off they go down the Yellow Brick Road–side-stepping a Wicked Witch and her ferocious Kalidahs, Sprouts that are far nicer-looking than they act, and the loyal Green Guard–on their perilous journey to find the Wizard and ask for his help. For they are sure his Wizness will grant their wishes and send Dorothy and Toto back to their home­–or will he? We’ll never tell. Come see for yourself.

Frog and Toad – 2/22/25 @ 2:00 pm

Based on Arnold Lobel’s well-loved books, and featuring a hummable score by Robert and Willie Reale, this whimsical show follows two great friends – the cheerful, popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad – through four fun-filled seasons.

Waking from hibernation in the Spring, Frog and Toad plant gardens, swim, rake leaves, go sledding and learn life lessons along the way. The two best friends celebrate and rejoice in the differences that make them unique and special. Part vaudeville, part make believe… all charm, A Year with Frog and Toad tells the story of a friendship that endures throughout the seasons.

The jazzy, upbeat score of A Year with Frog and Toad bubbles with melody and wit, making it an inventive, exuberant and enchanting musical for the whole family.

Jim Brickman – 2/28/25 @ 7:00 pm

With a career spanning over three decades, Brickman has become a household name in the world of contemporary music. His signature style, blending pop and classical influences, has garnered him numerous accolades and a dedicated fan base. Now, fans will have the opportunity to experience his iconic hits in a whole new way.

Brickman’s “Hits Live” tour promises an unforgettable show filled with timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics. You can expect to be serenaded with beloved classics such as “Valentine,” “The Gift,” and “Love of My Life,” among many others.

“I believe that if you’re lucky enough to have hits, you should play them,” says Brickman. “I am thrilled to bring these songs to life on stage and share this incredible experience with my fans.”

Leahy – 3/15/25 @ 7:00 pm

Leahy has cemented its status as a pioneering force in Canada’s music landscape. Their journey began in the late 1990s with the instrumental hit “Call to Dance,” introducing a fresh take on Canadian folk music. The distinct “Leahy sound” blended elements like stride piano, rhythmic guitar, unique bass lines, and contemporary drumming with mesmerizing fiddle-led instrumentals and vocals. Over the years, they earned three Juno awards and widespread acclaim for their dynamic performances. Raised on a musical legacy tracing back to 1825, the Leahy siblings learned fiddling from their father and other skills from their mother. Their career took off in the mid-1990s with an album on Virgin Records, achieving double platinum in Canada and international success. They’ve since sold over half a million albums worldwide, starred in PBS specials, and even inspired an Academy Award-winning documentary. In recent years, Grammy-winning producer David Bottrill joined forces with Leahy to create their most ambitious project yet, “Good Water,” blending a range of musical influences and pushing their traditional roots in exciting new directions.

Second City – 4/11/25 @ 7:00 pm

Come see why The Second City has been the first name in laughter for over 60 years! From the place that launched the careers of Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell and more comes the next generation of comedy superstars.

Our Planet Live – 4/27/25 @ 3:00 pm

From the Emmy® Award-winning team behind Netflix’s Our Planet series, comes a new natural history speaker series: Our Planet Live. Brought to you by Silverback Films and Producer esk in association with Netflix, Our Planet Live is a new and immersive live show featuring behind-the-scenes stories from the explorers, filmmakers, scientists, and adventurers that created some of the most eye-catching footage of our planet.

Join us live on stage as we bring to life these stories from the natural world. With a focus on climate fragility and climate migration, Our Planet Live tells an unprecedented story about overcoming obstacles on a global scale and explores the messages at the heart of these action-packed, emotional, and unforgettable sequences.

Tickets are now on sale

For more information about the 24-25 Season and to purchase tickets, please visit TheYoungWhitewater.com, contact the box office at 262-472-2222, or visit Ticket Services in the atrium of Greenhill Center of the Arts, 950 West Main Street, Whitewater, where they’ll open beginning with the start of classes on September 3, Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Local Student Graduates from MSOE


Gwynne Sahyun, from Whitewater, graduated from Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) in Spring 2024. Sahyun received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering .

Milwaukee School of Engineering (www.msoe.edu) is the university of choice for those seeking an inclusive community of experiential learners driven to solve the complex challenges of today and tomorrow. The independent, non-profit university has about 2,800 students and was founded in 1903. MSOE offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering, business and nursing. Faculty are student-focused experts who bring real-world experience into the classroom. This approach to learning makes students ready now as well as prepared for the future. Longstanding partnerships with business and industry leaders enable students to learn alongside professional mentors, and challenge them to go beyond what’s possible. MSOE graduates are leaders of character, responsible professionals, passionate learners and value creators.

This Week’s City & School Board Meetings

City of Whitewater Urban Forestry Commission – Monday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Upkeep of the Arboretum and Discuss and possible action on placing additional Purple Martin Houses in the Community.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or
telephone. Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84422777264
Meeting ID: 844 2277 7264
Or dial 312-626-6799

Whitewater Unified School District Staff Kick-Off – Tuesday @ 8:00 p.m.
Members of the Whitewater School Board will be attending the 2024 WUSD Staff Kick-Off at Whitewater High School on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 beginning at 8:00 am. A quorum of the School Board may be present; however, the Board will not be conducting any business during the event.

City of Whitewater Lakes Advisory Committee – Wednesday @ 4:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible action on Clay Street Nature Park Resident Concern, Discussion and possible action on Together for Healthy Lakes Summit- October 2, 2024, Discussion and possible action regarding SEWRPC Recap of Trippe and Cravath Lake Plant and Shoreline Inventory, Discussion and possible action regarding 2025 Dredge Inquiry
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83198282604?pwd=cDdLWjUvTTRqRUQ4UVcwQWcrcW1BUT09
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 831 9828 2604
Passcode: 137945

City of Whitewater Finance Committee Meeting – Wednesday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion of Updated License and Permit Fee Schedule
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater St
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
You are invited to a Zoom webinar.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86137121258?pwd=LJrBtwRZxrPj5Yz7Zrv9stboakO99K.1
Passcode: 946608
Telephone: +1 312 626 6799 US
Webinar ID: 861 3712 1258
Passcode: 946608

Flags to Half-staff in Honor of Sergeant Who Lost His Life in World War II

Gov. Evers Orders Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Sergeant Jack Hohlfeld Who Lost His Life in World War II
 
MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #236 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Mon., Aug. 26, 2024, in honor of U.S. Army Air Forces Sergeant Jack Hohlfeld, who lost his life in World War II and whose remains have been identified and returned to Wisconsin for burial.

“Sergeant Jack Hohlfeld was a decorated military hero who selflessly answered the call to serve and gave his life defending the values and freedoms we as a nation hold most dear,” said Gov. Evers. “It is our responsibility to make sure no hero is ever left behind, no matter how many years have passed, and it is an honor to be able to help welcome Sergeant Hohlfeld back to his home so that he may be laid to rest.”

Born in Vernon County and raised in La Crosse and Trempealeau Counties, Sergeant Hohlfeld voluntarily enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1938 and was assigned to the Philippines as a member of the Headquarters Squadron, 24th Pursuit Group. On Dec. 8, 1941, Sergeant Hohlfeld and members of the 24th Pursuit Group were engaged in combat and were soon overtaken by Japanese forces and forced to surrender as prisoners of war. Sergeant Hohlfeld survived the Bataan Death March and was held captive in the Cabanatuan Japanese prisoner of war (POW) camp until his death on Dec. 26, 1942, after which he was buried in Common Grave 811 with five other service members, before being moved to the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in 1948. The recipient of the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, WWII POW Medal, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal with Foreign Service clasp, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with one Bronze Service Star, WWII Victory Medal, Presidential Unit Citation with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Honorable Service Lapel Button-World War II, Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, and Philippine Defense Ribbon with Bronze Star, Sergeant Hohlfeld’s family have worked tirelessly to advocate for his identification, and his remains were positively identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency in May 2024.

Sergeant Hohlfeld will be buried on Mon., Aug. 26, 2024, in La Crosse.

Rockin’ Respite has openings for individuals with dementia

Rockin’ Respite now has openings for caregivers seeking respite care for their loved one. The Rockin’ respite program is a collaboration of Fort HealthCare, local volunteers and local churches. We serve seniors in the Walworth and Jefferson county area. 

Here’s an unsolicited testimonial that was received from the spouse of one of our participants:

“Whitewater is a dementia-friendly community that includes Rockin’ Respite. My name is Susan and I am a care partner. I know firsthand caregiving is hard. It often feels like there is no time left for you. Rockin’ Respite is a free program that offers time and rest for you, the care partner. Staff, including a nurse and volunteers, work one-on-one with your care partner. Activities include games, trips down memory lane, music, and light exercise. Lunch and snacks are provided. More importantly, smiles, laughter, and abundant care are provided.

As for me, well, I can read a book, have coffee with a friend, or finish a long overdue project worry-free knowing my care partner is happy and is in good hands thanks to Rockin’ Respite.“

Rockin’ Respite meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 9:30-3:30 at The Chapel, 445 Warner Road, Whitewater. There is no cost other than a nominal charge for lunch. If you are a full time caregiver in need of a respite break please contact Nurse Maisie Allie at (920) 723-7288 or Jennifer at 262-473-0535 for more information,  

Lake Geneva Public Beach and Big Foot Beach Closed Due to Harmful Algae Bloom

The Walworth County Division of Public Health, in partnership with the Geneva Lake Environmental Agency (GLEA) and the City of Lake Geneva, has officially closed the Lake Geneva Public Beach at the Riviera. The Big Foot Beach State Park beach will also be closed, per the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. A harmful algae bloom has been reported. Please avoid aquatic recreation and swimming in this area.

To ensure public safety, GLEA and Walworth County Public Health continue to actively sample the algae blooms in the city and lake-wide to determine the strain of Cyanobacteria and its toxicity level.

Blue-green algae, known as Cyanobacteria, are microscopic organisms naturally present at low levels in lakes, streams, and ponds. When conditions are favorable, usually in summer, the number of algae can increase dramatically. Some algal species produce toxins that, when ingested, can harm the neurological systems or liver of people, pets, livestock, and wildlife, and can cause other health problems.

There is no way to know immediately whether an algal bloom is harmful, so follow these tips to try and avoid contact with harmful algae:

  • Do not swim in or near algal blooms
  • Avoid water where blue-green algae appear as scums on the surface of the water, pea-soup-like discoloration, or a paint-like sheen
  • Don’t swallow water while swimming
  • Wash off after swimming in any lake, river, or pond to reduce the chance of illness
  • Keep your pets away from algal blooms and rinse them off with clean water after swimming in lakes and ponds to reduce exposure to algal material

Symptoms of algae-related illness include:

  • Sore throat, congestion, cough, wheezing, difficulty breathing
  • Eye irritation
  • Itchy, red skin, with or without blisters and/or hives
  • Earache
  • Agitation, headache
  • Abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting

Members of the public and veterinarians should call 608-266-1120 or complete the online form Harmful Algae Bloom (HAB) Illness or Sighting Survey, F-02152 (web survey) to report any blue-green algae blooms and related human or animal illnesses.

For more information on harmful algae blooms, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/harmful-algal-blooms.

Editor’s note: The image on the homepage is not a photo of either of the above lakes.

Obituary: Tania Ann Bowden, 48, of Delavan

Tania Ann Bowden, age 48, Delavan, Wi., passed away unexpectedly on August 1, 2024. Born September 16, 1975, to John Bowden and Irene Bowden (Proc) originally from Chicago, IL. Came to Wisconsin from Chicago in 1979. Tania attended Whitewater High School.

Tania is survived by her Mom, Irene and James Osgood, Delavan, WI., three daughters Casandra Harris (Casey), Fort Atkinson, WI., Samantha Dohms (Sammy), Cheyenne, Wyoming, Mariah Flynn, Slinger, WI., Laura, Sandy, Bonnie Bowden and many nieces and nephews, Fayetteville TN., and the list goes on.

Private visitation and the celebration of life will be held at her Mom’s residence.