Brantmeier Reaches Girls’ Doubles Final at US Open

During the 2021 U.S. Open Tennis Championships, many people identified Whitewater’s very own Reese Brantmeier as the youngest player in the main draw at the U.S. Open. So, we followed Reese in this tournament, and on Friday night, Reese and her doubles partner Elvina Kalieva of Staten Island, New York, won a thrilling three-set match to advance to the U.S. Open Girls’ Doubles Final on Saturday.


The eighth-seeded doubles team of Brantmeier/Kalieva were to take on the third-seeded doubles team of Robin Montgomery of Washington D.C. and Ashlyn Krueger of Highland Village, Texas. Thus, the match would be an All-American final featuring the top junior players in the country on the same court.

The three-set match went back and forth with some excellent rallies for both teams. Eventually, the doubles team of Montgomery and Kreuger defeated Brantmeier and Kalieva 5-7, 6-4, (10-4). The final set featured a championship tiebreaker to determine the match.

Congratulations, Reese, on a job well done! We are so very proud of you!

Article and Photos Submitted by Greg Stewart

UW-W cybersecurity program validated by the U.S. National Security Agency

Editor’s note: The following information was provided by UW-Whitewater.

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater has received the Program of Study Validation from the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity. This recognition extends to the Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Technology with a Networking and Security emphasis offered by the College of Business and Economics.

“It is an honor to earn this designation from the National Security Agency,” said Roger Yin, professor of information technology and co-director of the Cybersecurity Center for Business at UW-Whitewater. “This is one of the most difficult designations to receive, as the university is assessed on its research, program offerings, multidisciplinary approach, performance in cyber competitions and other factors.”

“Our IT major with an emphasis in Networking and Security delivers hands-on, practical instruction with heavy engagement and involvement with community and corporate partners,” said Andy Ciganek, department chair of information technology and supply chain management. “The NSA designation validates the high-quality instruction delivered by our professors and establishes UW-Whitewater as a first-choice destination and leader in cybersecurity education in the Midwest.”

Students graduating from the program can receive a certificate to show that they have completed the requirements of a  CAE Program of Study. Though graduates will be entering a high-demand field, the credential will further enhance their professional prospects.

Government officials and industry leaders have raised the urgency of their cybersecurity efforts in the wake of attacks against critical infrastructure and businesses. However, the demand for trained workers is reaching a crisis level, and the current talent shortfall was estimated at 500,000 workers in a recent presentation to a congressional subcommittee. In an effort to close the skills gap, the CAE-CD program sets standards for cybersecurity curriculum and academic excellence and encourages integration across academic disciplines.

The CAE-CD program also prioritizes community outreach and leadership. Collaboration with a business center that provides community services and business outreach is integral to a successful application. The Cybersecurity Center for Business at UW-Whitewater is hosted by the College of Business and Economics. The CCB provides cybersecurity education and training for businesses, local governments, and educational institutions throughout Wisconsin and portions of Illinois.

“Our application received high marks, along with praise for the Cybersecurity Center for Business,” said Yin. “The reviewers stated that the university and the CCB set a new standard for other aspiring institutions to emulate.”

“I applaud the effort and persistence by our staff in the information technology and supply chain management department,” said Paul Ambrose, interim dean of the College of Business and Economics. “This achievement helps highlight the college’s commitment to meeting the ever-evolving needs of Wisconsin’s businesses and workforce through relevant, innovative curriculum and state-of-the-art resources.”

Students graduating as early as December 2021 can obtain the certificate for completing a CAE-CD Program of Study. The program validation will be effective through August 2026 and can be renewed upon review.

For more information, contact Roger Yin at 262-472-5473 or yinl@uww.edu.

WHS to Host Parent University September 22

On Wednesday, September 22, Whitewater High School Staff will host the first annual Parent University addressing topics such as Redefining Ready, the new WHS Honors Recognition System, Advanced Placement courses, cybersecurity, Securly Home, digital parenting, using Infinite Campus, accessing mental health resources, school safety, understanding Early College Credit, getting to know Google Classroom, academic career planning/portfolio, the After School Study Center, youth apprenticeship, work study, and career certifications, clubs and activities, and scholarships. Staff will also be available for school tours and an open question and answer session.

WHO: Parents/Guardians of WHS students

WHEN: Wednesday, September 22, 2021, 4:00 pm until 7:30 pm

WHERE: Enter WHS through the main entrance, MPR/main gym entrance, or auditorium entrance, and someone will be there to help you find your first session.

WHAT: Check out the session descriptions and session schedule at https://sites.google.com/wwusd.org/whs-parent-university/home, and come for the sessions that interest you the most.

WHY: Learn about programs offered at WHS, get your questions answered about high school, meet the staff, and explore WHS!

Questions?
Contact Principal Mike Lovenberg at mlovenberg@wwusd.org or 262-472-8100.

$100 COVID-19 Vaccine Reward Program Extended to Sunday, Sept. 19

Editor’s note: The following information was provided by a press release from the Governor’s office.
MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has announced that eligibility for the $100 COVID-19 Vaccine Reward Program will be extended to Sun., Sept. 19, 2021. The program opened Aug. 20 and is available to anyone ages 12 and up in Wisconsin who gets their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine by Sept. 19. 

Between Aug. 20 and Sept. 1, more than 65,000 Wisconsinites received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. This extended deadline provides an opportunity for even more people to get vaccinated.

“We’re excited to see so many Wisconsinites across the state rolling up their sleeves to get the COVID-19 vaccine to help protect the health and safety of themselves and others and claiming their $100 reward,” said Gov. Evers. “I’m glad to be able to extend this program to give others the opportunity to take advantage of this great offer, and to do their part to help protect our state and stop the spread of the Delta variant.”

In order to receive the $100 reward, Wisconsin residents will need to register by filling out the form available at 100.wisconsin.gov or call 844-684-1064 to register over the phone. Information submitted will be used to verify that individuals have a valid first COVID-19 vaccine dose reported to the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR) between Aug. 20 and Sept. 19. 

Rewards cards will be mailed to the individual’s Wisconsin address and may take six to eight weeks to be mailed to participants. Registration for the program will remain open until Sept. 30, 2021, but only those who receive their first COVID-19 vaccine dose within the program window are eligible for the $100 reward. 

For more information on the reward program, visit the DHS $100 reward page or call 844-684-1064. Language assistance is available. To find a COVID-19 vaccine location in your community, visit Vaccines.gov or call 211 or 877-947-2211. 

“The science and data are showing us that we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from the highly contagious Delta variant by getting vaccinated,” said DHS Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake. “All three COVID-19 vaccines are extremely safe and highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Getting vaccinated now can help protect our state as we brace for this current surge, and it can put $100 in your pocket.”

The $100 COVID-19 Vaccine Reward Program is part of the ongoing effort to stop the spread of the highly transmissible Delta variant by encouraging Wisconsinites to get vaccinated. Wisconsin continues to experience an increase of COVID-19 cases, driven by the Delta variant. The Delta variant is much more contagious than the original strain of COVID-19. While vaccination is the most important layer of protection against COVID-19, with the high-level of disease transmission in Wisconsin, DHS is urging everyone to add additional layers of protection including wearing a mask, staying home when feeling sick, and thinking carefully about the activities you are attending.

Music Mosaics Concert Series Opens with Final Solo Concert by MyungHee Chung, piano

Editor’s note: The following information was provided by the UW-W College of Arts & Communication, Dept. of Music

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Department of Music is excited to announce the opening of the Music Mosaics series for the 21/22 academic year. Returning to face to face events, the series will open with a concert titled “My Favorite Pieces” by MyungHee Chung – her final solo concert before retiring from UW-Whitewater in the Spring.  All proceeds from the Music Mosaic series go directly towards scholarships for Department of Music students. This performance will take place on Sunday, September 19 at 3:00 pm in the Light Recital Hall. Ticket prices are $14 for general public, $12 for over 65, $7 for individuals under 18 and free for all UW-Whitewater students. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased online at tickets.uww.edu or by calling (262) 472-2222. Masks are required for anyone entering a campus building and each performance in the Light Recital Hall will have a social distance seating option. Do not come to campus if you are ill. For the most up to date campus safety information, visit the Warhawks are Back webpage at the link below. uww.edu/warhawks-are-back.

Dr. Chung has served UW-Whitewater for twenty six years. During that time she has performed in hundreds of concerts, collaborated with numerous artists, taught thousands of students and become a mentor, and friend, to all. “My Favorite Pieces” honors her time at UW-Whitewater and the joy he has experienced. On that note, the concert will kick off with a selection from J.S. Bach titled “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, Chorale from Cantata No. 147” arranged by Myra Hess. Continuing on she will play one of the only minor pieces created by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart “Rondo in A minor, KV 511;” other works include selections by Liszt, Chopin, Rachmaninoff and Ravel.

“I want to express my gratitude to the University that I was able to work and perform, and to the audience for supporting live music events” says Chung. Having worked alongside Chung for fourteen years, Dr. Michael Dugan, Chair of the Department of Music, says “MyungHee Chung’s time has been nothing short of a gift for our entire campus. While her stunning virtuosity and inspirational teaching will be missed, the legacy she will leave at UW-Whitewater is second to none.”

Hospitals in South Central WI see High Patient Volumes, Limited Resources; Seek Community Help to Prevent COVID-19 Cases

Banner note: The following information was provided by the South Central WI Healthcare Emergency Readiness Coalition. Though Walworth County is not one of the fourteen counties represented by the coalition, both Jefferson and Rock Counties are included. Among the hospital members signing the message: Edgerton Hospital & Health Services, Mercyhealth, SSM Health, UnityPoint Health – Meriter, and UW Health.

This Week’s City & School Board Meetings (UPDATED: WWUSD Policy Review Comm. Added)

City of Whitewater Plan and Architectural Review CommissionMonday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes conditional use permit for an electronic sign for First English Lutheran Church, conditional use permit to convert the main floor of 309 W. Main St. to residential use, amendment to the conditional use permit to allow two additional units at 292 S. Wisconsin St. for DLK Enterprises.
This meeting will be IN-PERSON and VIRTUAL
City of Whitewater Municipal Building
Community Room- First Floor
312 W. Whitewater St.
Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/443562893
You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: 1 (571) 317-3112
Access Code: 443-562-893

City of Whitewater Public Works Committee Tuesday @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda includes John’s Disposal rate increase request, consideration of a “No Mow May” such as was held in Fort Atkinson, PASER ratings for city streets.
Community Room
Municipal Building-1 Floor
312 W Whitewater St

City of Whitewater Parks & Recreation Board – Wednesday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda includes revised WAFC agreement, ’21-’22 WAFC fee schedule, lakes drawdown update.
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
You can also dial in using your phone:
1-312-757-3121
Access code 594-744-813

Whitewater Unified School District Policy Review Committee – Thursday @ 9:00 a.m.
Agenda
Whitewater Unified School District Central Office
419 South Elizabeth Street

Whitewater Fire Department, Inc Business MeetingThursday @ 6:00 p.m.
Location: WFD, Inc Training Room
Agenda includes EMS Coordinator position

Seniors in the Park Presents Queen Bees

Watch Queen Bees Online (Full Movie) | MetaReel.com

“Queen Bees”
Tuesday, September 14, 1 pm
(Comedy/Drama/Romance)1 hour, 47 minutes; Rated PG-13 (2021)
After reluctantly agreeing to move into a retirement home, Helen (Ellen Burstyn), an independent widow, learns it’s much like high school—full of cliques and flirtatious suitors. The cast includes Jane Curtin, Ann-Margaret, Christopher Lloyd, and James Caan.