News

More than 9,100 students, including students from your area, earned degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in May 2026. The university held its Spring 2026 Commencement ceremony for doctoral, MFA, and medical professional candidates at the Kohl Center on Friday, May 8 and its ceremony for undergraduate, law, and other Master’s degree candidates at Camp Randall Stadium on Saturday, May 9.

UW-Madison was ranked the #2 public university in the United States by Time magazine in 2026. With public service as its guiding principle, UW-Madison’s students, staff, and faculty engage in a world-class education while solving real-world problems. For more information, visit http://www.wisc.edu.

Local degree recipients include:

Whitewater, WI

 Jonathan Chan, College of Engineering, Bachelor of Science-Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
 Arno Crowley, Col of Agricultural & Life Sci, Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry
 Jessica Dean, School of Veterinary Medicine, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Medicine
 Colin Dugan, Col of Agricultural & Life Sci, Bachelor of Science, Global Health
 Shivam Kalra, School of Education, Bachelor of Science-Health Promotion and Health Equity, Health Promotion and Health Equity
 Milena Maroske, School of Education, Master of Science-Athletic Training, Athletic Training
 Anna Riemer, School of Pharmacy, Doctor of Pharmacy, Pharmacy
 Jakub Toomey, School of Business, Bachelor of Business Administration, Business Administration-Management

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The University of Wisconsin-Madison has recognized students named to the Dean’s List for the spring semester of the 2025-2026 academic year.

Students who achieve at a high level academically are recognized by the dean of their school or college at the close of each semester. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must complete a minimum of 12 graded degree credits in that semester. Each university school or college sets its own GPA requirements for students to be eligible to receive the distinction.

To view an online listing, visit https://registrar.wisc.edu/deanslist/.

Here are the students from your circulation area who have received this honor.

Whitewater, WI

 Andrea Alcala, School of Education, Dean’s List
 Isabel Aranda, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
 Carley Lane Boudreau, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
 Jonathan Chan, College of Engineering, Dean’s Honor List
 Arno Crowley, College of Agricultural & Life Sciences, Dean’s List
 Colin Dugan, College of Agricultural & Life Sciences, Dean’s List
 Kiersten Jordan, School of Education, Dean’s List
 Shivam Kalra, School of Education, Dean’s List
 Emmanuel Mbifi, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
 Leah Newmann, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List
 Lucien Pomazak, College of Agricultural & Life Sciences, Dean’s List
 Kendal Schreiber, College of Letters and Science, Dean’s List

 Marcy and the Highlights has a great show lined up for us!

Updated 7/20/26 @ 7:30 a.m. to correct address to 1155 West Main Street.

The City of Whitewater Plan & Architectural Review Commission [PARC] at its July 13 meeting conducted a conceptual review of a proposed Seven Brew Drive Thru Coffee. The prospective developer and franchisees presented a plan to demolish the former BicycleWise building at 1155 W. Main Street and to construct an approximate 510-square foot building designed primarily to serve customers through a dual-lane drive-through system. The preliminary plan includes a vehicle stacking capacity of approximately 21 vehicles, reflecting the operational model commonly utilized by 7 Brew locations. The expected franchisees indicated that they already operate six of the businesses, which typically have about 11 employees on the premises at a time. They stated that there would be access for walkup customers and would have a picnic table outside.

The closest 7 Brew, which opened last fall, is located in Delavan. It is open Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. and until 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

According to the Seven Brew website, the company was founded in 2017 in Arkansas, and by 2020 had grown to seven “stands.” It was purchased by an entrepreneurial group in 2020. The website further states “Brew has quickly grown from 38 stands in January 2023 to over 700+ across 38 states. It serves a menu of 20,000+ possible flavorful drinks across 7 categories, including Coffees, 7 Energy drinks, 7 Fizz Sodas, Teas, Lemonades, Smoothies, and Shakes. It is broadly recognized as the “fastest growing restaurant chain in America,” has been rated “#1 in overall customer rating” out of 1,500 restaurants and it continues to Cultivate Kindness in communities and with customers across America.” The company’s name is derived from its original menu including 7 different coffee drinks, but this number has since expanded.

The applicants indicated that to make room for their concept they would have to procure a small portion of the parking lot in the Whitewater Plaza strip mall. Should they wish to proceed with the development they will need to return to the PARC with an application for a Conditional Use Permit that is required for a drive through.

Editor’s note: Images are from 7 Brews. It should be recognized that there are several other westside businesses that sell coffee besides Starbucks and Dunkin’, but coffee is not their specialty.

According to the National Weather Service there’s a potential for severe thunderstorms in our area on Monday night, mainly between 8 pm-Midnight, “with the environment looking favorable for some of these to potentially be some higher end severe storms.

As the storms develop and remain isolated, they will have the potential to become supercell thunderstorms that produce very large hail (larger than golf ball sized), damaging downburst winds (over 70 mph) and some tornadoes (some of which could be EF-2 level). As time progresses through the evening, the expectation is that these isolated supercell thunderstorms will merge into a squall line and produce a larger area for potentially damaging winds over 70 mph and some brief, quick spin up tornadoes along the leading edge.

The main question at this point is where/if the storms will develop. There appears to be a ‘cap’ or area of warm air ahead of the advancing cold front which may hold things back, at least in the afternoon. There also may be two earlier rounds of rain showers/storms that come through in the morning and early afternoon respectfully. There will still be smoke in the area, but this may not play much of a role with the storms primarily being in the evening/night hours.

Air quality-wise, the advisory goes until 12 pm Monday and will be addressed by the DNR tomorrow morning. Initial trends seem to be favoring improvement Monday into Tuesday, possibly through the rest of the week.”

SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital – Janesville and SSM Health Dean Medical Group – Janesville East orthopedic surgeon Dr. Kevin O’Halloran has been presented with a Being Exceptional Every Day (BEE) Award in recognition of the exceptional care he provides.

Dr. O’Halloran was nominated for the award by a community member, who shared:

“I broke my leg and spent the night in the hospital. Dr. Kevin O’Halloran walked into my room with the biggest smile I’ve ever seen. He immediately put me at ease with a hug and a prayer. From that moment on, he has been a constant in my life. After fixing my leg, Dr. O’Halloran came into my room and played his guitar for me. He uses music as part of his patients’ healing — and it truly works. Even after I returned home, he continued to check on my progress. Dr. O’Halloran has changed my life in many ways. He has a heart of gold and a gift for helping people through their darkest moments.”

The BEE Award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond while fostering a culture of excellence at SSM Health. Congratulations to Dr. O’Halloran on this well-deserved honor!

About SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital – Janesville  

Nationally recognized for quality and innovation, SSM Health is a Catholic, not-for-profit, fully integrated health system working to advance health equity and empower all people to achieve their full potential. 

SSM Health provides convenient access to high-quality community-based services. The organization’s footprint includes hospitals, physician offices, outpatient and virtual care services, senior care, comprehensive home care and hospice services, a fully transparent pharmacy benefit company, a health insurance company and an accountable care organization.    

SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital – Janesville is a 50-bed hospital that opened in 2012, providing a full range of services for communities in Rock County and the surrounding area. The health ministry offers talented specialists in women’s health, cancer care, orthopedics, pediatrics, general surgery, rehabilitation services, sleep disorder and many more medical services.  

For more information, visit www.ssmhealth.com or find us on Facebook. 

Walworth County will proudly join communities across the nation in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a special daylong celebration at the Walworth County Fair. “Walworth County Salutes America 250” will take place on Thursday, September 3, 2026, offering residents and visitors a vibrant blend of history, education, and patriotic pride.

The event is part of America’s multiyear semiquincentennial commemoration. Walworth County’s celebration invites the community to reflect on the country’s past, honor local heroes, and envision the future we hope to create for generations to come.

Event Highlights

Veteran Tribute

The day will begin with a morning ceremony on the Park Stage recognizing local Purple Heart and Silver Star recipients—an opportunity for the community to honor those who have sacrificed in service to the nation.

Living History Program: Dale Reich as Christopher Ludwig

Local reenactor Dale Reich will transport audiences to the Revolutionary War era through an immersive portrayal of Christopher Ludwig, the German immigrant and master baker who became the Continental Army’s “Baker General” under George Washington. Through vivid storytelling and period costume, Reich brings Ludwig’s remarkable—and often overlooked—patriotism to life.

Declaration 1776: The Big Bang of Modern Democracy Exhibit

A featured attraction throughout the day, this traveling exhibit from the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History explores the global impact of the Declaration of Independence. Visitors will see how the phrase “all men are created equal” ignited independence movements worldwide and continues to inspire the American pursuit of equality and self-governance. The exhibit will be on display in the Walworth County America 250 tent.

Free Giveaways

The first 500 visitors to Walworth County’s America 250 tent will receive a coupon for a free scoop of red, white, and blue America 250 ice cream to be redeemed at the Walworth County Farm Bureau. In addition, 1,000 Pocket Constitutions of the United States will be distributed throughout the day at the Walworth County tent.

Patriotic Drone Show Finale

The celebration will conclude with a dazzling patriotic drone show lighting up the night sky—a modern tribute to America’s enduring spirit.

America 250 Time Capsule Project

In conjunction with the celebration, Walworth County has launched a countywide America 250 Time Capsule initiative in partnership with the Walworth County Historical Society. Residents, schools, community groups, and partner organizations are invited to contribute items that represent everyday life in 2026. The time capsule will be sealed for 50 years, allowing current community members the chance to witness its opening in 2076.

A list of requested items and donation instructions can be found at Time Capsule | Walworth County, WI

Tickets and More Information

To join us for Walworth County Salutes America 250 at the Walworth County Fair on September 3, please purchase County Fair admission tickets ahead of time at www.walworthcountyfairgrounds.com or at the gates. The 177th Walworth County Fair runs September 2 through 7, 2026, at the Walworth County Fairgrounds in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. 

Find more information about our event on the Fair Schedule and at https://rebrand.ly/WalCo250.  

Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Walworth County Fair. Established in 1849, this year’s fair will run for six days from Wednesday, September 2 through Monday, September 7.

City of Whitewater Parks and Recreation Board – Food Pantry Subcommittee – Monday @ 12:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Review of potential Kitchen space layout of Food Pantry (Information Only)
Armory Kitchen-146 North Street, Whitewater, WI.
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/211275355792164?p=srcZRG6zdknKDmeMWu

Whitewater Unified School District School Board Special Meeting – Monday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda – click on “meetings” in upper right corner. Includes budget update and closed session to discuss Business Manager position.

Whitewater Public Library Board of Trustees – Monday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda includes Library Administration Analysis and Budget Recommendations 2027-2028 presentation by
Assistant Director, Sarah French
Whitewater Public Library, Meeting Room 2 – 431 West Center St., Whitewater, WI, 53190
*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://teams.microsoft.com/meet/238002657283787?p=BVMvRGBDpRZrh7p6b2
Meeting ID: 238 002 657 283 787
Passcode: mA6E4AS2
Telephone: +1 (929) 229-5663

City of Whitewater Common Council Meeting – Tuesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Approve Funding and Consultant Selection for a Comprehensive Whitewater Aquatic and
Fitness Center Facility Assessment; Review and Discuss the recent Utility Credit Rating Upgrade and Financial Impact, Review, discuss and direct staff regarding Flock Safety Contract.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, WI 53190
*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:
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/246836458226799?p=aD3g0DQxj0k9Z05Gg9
Meeting ID: 246 836 458 226 799
Passcode: kD7PE2E8
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,748662868# United States
Phone conference ID: 748 662 868#

City of Whitewater Lakes Advisory Committee Meeting – Wednesday @ 4:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Lake Improvement Discussion: Muck, Cattails, and Carp; Discussion and possible action of Preliminary Recommendations for the Comprehensive Cravath and Trippe Lakes Plan being completed by the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SEWRPC)
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West Whitewater Str, Whitewater, WI, 53190
*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.
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/274083843726123?p=I7mmFAwBITW7FCbcX5

Senator Spreitzer was recognized with a WCA Outstanding Legislator Award on July 9. Also pictured is WCA Government Affairs Associate Chelsea Shanks.

State Senator Mark Spreitzer (D-Beloit) has been honored by the Wisconsin Counties Association (WCA) with a “WCA Outstanding Legislator Award” for his work on behalf of county government during the 2025-2026 Legislative Session.

“Senator Spreitzer has been a pivotal force in confronting the significant issues affecting residents of the 15th Senate District and communities across Wisconsin,” stated WCA President & CEO Mark D. O’Connell. “His unwavering commitment to advancing sound, future‐focused governance will leave a lasting impact on our state.”

The “WCA Outstanding Legislator Award” is handed out biennially to a select group of legislators who have represented county interests in both the legislature and in their districts. These legislators have demonstrated leadership for counties on key issues, legislation and the state budget.

WCA represents the interests of county government both on the state and federal levels and is in Madison, Wisconsin. For more information, visit www.wicounties.org.

Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Wisconsin Counties Association.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has issued another Air Quality Advisory, until Noon on Monday. The smoke is expected to arrive in our area late on Saturday evening. DNR is expecting air quality to reach Unhealthy for All Groups (red level 4 out of 6).