News

Funds will support veterinary care for senior, special needs and medically fragile dogs, as well as emergency veterinary assistance for community pets

Albert’s Dog Lounge announced today that it has been awarded a $3,000 grant from the Green Bay Packers Foundation as part of the Foundation’s annual grant cycle.

The grant will be directed toward veterinary care for dogs within Albert’s Dog Lounge’s foster-based rescue program and emergency veterinary assistance for community-owned dogs whose families are experiencing financial hardship. Funding will help cover veterinary treatment, medical supplies and prescriptions, allowing more dogs to receive the care they need while also helping families keep beloved pets safely in their homes.

Albert’s Dog Lounge is one of 402 nonprofit organizations throughout Wisconsin that have received a grant through this year’s annual grant cycle, which has awarded more than $1.6 million to charitable and civic groups statewide. This year, the Foundation focused on awarding grants to organizations that will use the funds for programs or projects that address animal welfare, homelessness and human services.

The Green Bay Packers Foundation issues grants each year to nonprofit organizations throughout the state of Wisconsin, awarding grants in a four-year cycle. With these disbursements, the Foundation has distributed more than $33 million for charitable purposes since it was established in 1986. All grant applications are reviewed by the Green Bay Packers Foundation Trustees. More information about the Packers Foundation and the annual grants process is available at packers.com/foundation.

About Albert’s Dog Lounge

Albert’s Dog Lounge is a foster-based, volunteer-driven nonprofit dog rescue founded in 2017 and dedicated to providing a steppingstone to new lives for senior, special needs and hospice dogs. The organization rescues dogs from overcrowded shelters, puppy mills and families unable to continue their care, providing each dog with medical treatment, compassion and dignity. In addition to rescue and adoption, Albert’s Dog Lounge supports pet owners in need through Clyde’s Free Pet Pantry and emergency veterinary assistance, helping strengthen the bond between people and their pets while reducing preventable surrender.

About the Green Bay Packers Foundation

The Green Bay Packers Foundation annual grant program is part of Green Bay Packers Give Back, the Packers’ all-encompassing community outreach initiative. Packers Give Back includes the Foundation’s annual and impact grants, appearances by players, alumni, coaches and staff, cash and in-kind donations, community events, Make-A-Wish visits, football outreach and much more. These efforts contribute to a comprehensive Packers charity impact that was in excess of $15 million last year.

Would you like to bring your food truck to Whitewater and be part of our Whitewater Food Truck Fest on Saturday, September 26th from 11am-6pm at Cravath Lakefront Park?

We’re looking for delicious food, unique flavors, and great vendors to join the fun! There is no entry fee to bring a truck!

Interested in participating? Email us at parks@whitewater-wi.gov for more information. Please do not forget to obtain your Mobile Food Establishment License. Helpful directions below. 

Come hungry. Bring your flavor. Join the fun!

Before serving food in the City of Whitewater, all mobile food vendors (whether it be from a food truck, trailer, food cart, or call and deliver out of your house) must obtain a City Mobile Food Establishment License. 

Getting licensed is quick and easy:

Apply online: https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/forms/29107

Or apply in person at the Whitewater City Clerk’s Office

License fee: $7.00

Obtaining a license ensures all required approvals are in place and helps keep businesses in compliance with City ordinances.

Questions? Contact the Whitewater City Clerk’s Office—we’re happy to help. 262-473-0103

Michelle Dujardin, Assistant Parks, Recreation, Community Events Director City of Whitewater
 (262) 473-0121 | (262) 903-9532 | mdujardin@whitewater-wi.gov

The Whitewater Community Foundation board of directors have hired Kat Mawhinney as the organization’s part-time executive director, effective August 2026. A seasoned banking and financial services professional, Mawhinney brings more than three decades of financial and community experience in Whitewater to her role.

“Kat brings a passion for the community, strong organizational skills and a deep financial background to the table,” said Therese Kennedy, current president of the board. “While we will miss her as a board member, we are immeasurably grateful that she is willing to contribute her talents and considerable business and community experience to the organization.”

Geoff Hale, a longtime board member and owner of Home Lumber in Whitewater, said, “Congratulations to Kat Mawhinney, becoming the first executive director of the Whitewater Community Foundation in its 30-year history. This much-needed role will be consequential in taking WCF to the next level. Kat’s strong, longstanding connections to our community and its populace and her desire to make a difference make this a true win for the foundation and for Whitewater.”

Over her many years with First Citizens State Bank in Whitewater, Mawhinney worked closely with the federal Community Reinvestment Act — a law that ensures banks support the credit and service needs of the communities they serve. She helped guide the bank’s efforts to better serve local residents, including expanding access to financial services for low‑income community members.

“I’ve spent my career building relationships in this community, and I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when people come together with a shared purpose,” said Mawhinney. 

“Whitewater has always been an important part of my life — my hometown, my community, and the place that shaped who I am. As I step into this role, I’m grateful for the opportunity to stay connected and support the ideas and efforts that will guide us into the future.”

After a 37‑year career helping grow local businesses and guiding families through the home‑mortgage process in the greater Whitewater area, Mawhinney retired as vice president – loan officer at First Citizens State Bank in January 2026.

She joined the WCF board of directors in 2022 and served as co-president, along with Therese Kennedy, from 2024 until she resigned in August 2026 to accept the role of executive director. 

Mawhinney continues to make her home in rural Whitewater, living with her husband on their family farm in Johnstown Township. She cherishes the time spent with their children and grandchild, celebrating milestones and staying closely connected. Those moments, she says, keep her grounded and inspire her to remain involved in the community she’s always called home. 

For questions, contact Kat Mawhinney, director, Whitewater Community Foundation, at info@whitewatercommunityfoundation.org or 262-458-4088.

About WCF: The Whitewater Community Foundation’s mission is to “Enhance quality of life in the Whitewater area via educational, cultural, charitable or benevolent expenditures” through scholarships and community action grants. To donate and support the continuation of the Whitewater Banner, simply send a check made out to Whitewater Community Foundation to P.O. Box 428, Whitewater, WI, 53190, or donate online at whitewatercommunityfoundation.org by hitting the “Donate” button on top of the contact page. For tax purposes, the Whitewater Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) Corporation.

It’s time to play! If you currently play a band instrument, or used to play one, it’s time to get involved with the university/community band at UW-Whitewater. No audition is required. Come have fun making music with your friends and neighbors! Rehearsals begin on Monday, September 14, in room 1005 on the main floor of the Greenhill Center of the Arts. Rehearsals start at 6:30 pm and end by 8:45 pm. Our concert is scheduled for Monday, November 9.

If you have any questions, please email Dr. Glenn C. Hayes at hayesg@uww.edu.

Don’t miss out on the fun!

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Department of Intercollegiate Athletics has announced the launch of UW-Whitewater Warhawks Light Ale, a beverage made in partnership with Duesterbeck’s Brewing Company of Elkhorn.

UW-Whitewater Warhawks Light Ale, a Kolsch beer made specifically for the university, will be sold at the Champions Club at Warhawk football games during the 2026 season.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with a local institution to give our fans something to enjoy and be proud of as Warhawk supporters,” said Ryan Callahan, assistant chancellor and director of athletics. “This is an exciting time at UW-Whitewater, and we hope that this beverage — enjoyed responsibly — adds to our positive momentum as a university.

“I’d like to thank (owners) Ben and Laura Johnson and their family for working with us to create a product that is uniquely UW-Whitewater.”

Duesterbeck’s, a German heritage brewery, saw the opportunity for a match with the university, which is about a 25-minute drive from the Whitewater campus. The oldest son of owners Ben and Laura Johnson, Makai Johnson, is a current UW-Whitewater student.

The brewery has been open for seven years and is family run in every sense of the word — each of the couple’s six children has a role within the organization. Its beverages are served at restaurants and venues throughout southern Wisconsin.

“UW-Whitewater has such a good reputation in Walworth County, in our community, and in Wisconsin,” said Ben Johnson. “With Makai being a student there, it just seemed like a perfect fit.”

Student-led design

The UW-Whitewater Warhawk Light Ale can was designed by Makai, who is an art major with emphasis in graphic design. He leaned into his relationships with other students on campus to conceptualize the design.

Several parts of the can design reflect his findings, including a “PAINT IT PURPLE” label on the floor where Willie Warhawk is standing as an ode to UWW’s longtime tradition of painting a campus road purple as part of the university’s signature first-year student welcome event known as Warhawk Welcome.

Makai’s courses in the College of Arts and Communication helped provide the skillset needed to craft the artwork for the beer.

“I thought tradition was important,” Makai said. “I took Dan Kim’s class in the fall, and he really gave me a bunch of great advice about trying to include deep meanings with simple text.”

In addition to Kim, a professor of art and design, Makai cited the influence of other art and design faculty members, throughout his college experience and development as an artist, including Assistant Professor Lilly Handley and Lecturer Zachary Zdrale.

“Everyone just helps you see the world differently and teaches you something else that you can bring to it,” Makai said. “The great thing about Whitewater is that yes, it’s a graphics major, but we do a lot of fine arts as well.

“My experience here has been really nice. Everyone there really wants you to improve and use what you have in the real world. The projects we do are based on something you’d actually do.”

Makai chose UW-Whitewater to be close to his family and for the graphic design program. He also was a member of the men’s track and field team as a freshman in 2024. He noted that a field trip he took to campus as a high school senior influenced his decision to be a Warhawk.

The Champions Club is a social area in the north end zone of Perkins Stadium added ahead of the 2025 season where fans ages 21 and older have access to a full-service cash bar. UW-Whitewater led NCAA Division III in attendance last fall as more than 50,000 fans entered the stadium gates, an average of 8,451 people per game. 

The Johnson family is excited to see their product take center stage in the venue’s social area.

“We think back to college and tailgating and football Saturdays as something we remember, and we want to bring that to the next generation,” Ben Johnson said.

Duesterbeck’s Taproom is open to the public Tuesdays through Sundays. The brewery plans to sell UW-Whitewater Warhawks Light Ale on site. Brewery Tours are also available Saturdays at 3:30 p.m. Plans are in progress to bring the beverage to locations in Whitewater.

Please note: This product is intended for adults of legal drinking age. You must be 21 or older to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages. UW-Whitewater encourages those who choose to drink to do so responsibly.

Chris Lindeke, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
262-472-1193
lindekec@uww.edu

This September, Whitewater Public Library invites you to celebrate Library Card Sign-up Month and discover how a library card can hit all the right notes, no matter what your tastes are.

With a library card, you can do more than check out books. From free classes and job resources to homework help, streaming media, and cultural events, today’s libraries connect communities to information, inspiration, and each other.

An initiative of the American Library Association, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September since 1987 to mark the beginning of the school year, combat illiteracy, and encourage communities everywhere to explore all the offerings that having a library card unlocks. Today, thousands of public libraries and schools nationwide participate in the month-long celebration each fall.

This year’s theme, “A Library Card Hits All the Right Notes,” is a reminder that libraries offer something for everyone—no matter your age, background, or goals. Whether you’re checking out a classic story or trying something new, finding harmony at the library’s programs, finding your focus in a study room or vibing out in a cozy nook, or composing your future with new skills, there’s a seat in the front row at the library for you, and your library card is the ticket.

At Whitewater Public Library you’ll find:

• Meeting and study rooms
• Children’s activities
• A Makerspace filled with tools, supplies, and equipment
• Library of Things collection featuring games, kits, household items, and more
• Explore Passes to area attractions
• Programs and events for all ages
• New books and audiobooks in print and digital
• Local history resources

Getting a library card is free, easy, and empowering. For students, it’s a key to academic success. For adults, it’s a gateway to lifelong learning. For everyone, it’s a smart way to stay connected to your community.

Join us throughout September for special Library Card Sign-up Month activities, including:

• NASA IMAP Program – Tuesday, Sept. 15 at 5:30-7:30 p.m. Discover NASA’s IMAP mission and learn about space through a variety of STEM activities.
• Ferradermis Robotics – Saturday, Sept. 19 at 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Join our local robotics club for a robot demonstration and hands-on STEM activities! 
• Hoo’s Woods Raptor Center – Monday, Sept. 28 at 2:00-3:00 p.m. A fun and fact-filled educational program about raptors! Meet three of the raptors that make Hoo’s Woods their home.
• View all September events at whitewaterlibrary.org/events

This September, B sharp and sign up for a library card. Stop by Whitewater Public Library or visit us online at whitewaterlibrary.org to sign up for your card today. It’s easy and it’s FREE.

Sarah French, Assistant Director Whitewater Public Library
Office: 262-458-2782
sfrench@whitewater-wi.gov

Our work in Whitewater made local headlines this week! TMJ4 covered how together, with our volunteers and partners we are tackling the “missing middle” housing gap — building affordable workforce homes for teachers, first responders, and factory workers who’ve been priced out of the market. View the segment here.

Last week, Ajax Property Management, a division of Keefe & Associates, joined us in Whitewater with an enthusiastic crew. They installed interior doors and worked on the exterior decks, among other tasks. Keefe & Associates has been a great supporter of Habitat for Humanity in Walworth County, and we look forward to more collaboration in the future.

First Citizens State Bank also joined us on the jobsite this week. They’ve been a partner on this entire project, and it was wonderful to see them out building alongside us. It’s great to see the community come together to bring these homes closer to homeownership.

Now Accepting Homeownership Applications

Could a home in Whitewater be within reach? We’re looking for applicants who:

• Have a stable income
• Are ready for homeownership
• Have been Walworth County residents for 6+ months
• Find market-priced housing currently out of reach

This is a purchase opportunity, not a rental — with mortgage qualification up to approximately $200,000 and typical household incomes around $60,000–$70,000+.  

If you know someone who is looking for homeownership but market pricing is out of reach, share this opportunity!

Spots Are Filling Up — Don’t Miss Women Build Day!

Mark your calendar now: our Women Build Days in Whitewater are happening September 9 and 16, and spots won’t last long. This is your chance to:

• Join a welcoming space where women work together & lift each other up
• Learn hands-on construction skills you’ll be proud of
• Build real confidence with every nail and board
• Make a lasting, meaningful contribution to workforce housing in our community

Grab your friends, coworkers, or go it alone — either way, you won’t want to look back and wish you’d signed up. Reserve your spot today!

From hammers swinging to headlines running, this was a week that showed what’s possible when a community shows up for its neighbors. Whether you’re ready to pick up a tool, apply for a home, or just spread the word — there’s a place for you in this story. See you on the jobsite!

With gratitude,

John Dawson
Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity in Walworth County

Special Common Council Meeting – Monday 8/31 @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, Wisconsin
——————————-
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/243072979315311?p=L93Hs3Cg05nY8X7yjQ
Meeting ID: 243 072 979 315 311
Passcode: yp7MW9HQ
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663,,40607954# United States
Phone conference ID: 406 079 54#

Public Safety and Licensing Review Committee Meeting – Tuesday 9/1 @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda
Whitewater Municipal Building, Cravath Lakefront Room, 2nd Floor
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, Wisconsin
——————————-
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/290760246064157?p=LtJJadLfbgJZBXHPuI
Meeting ID: 290 760 246 064 157
Passcode: Pu6Dv9am

Common Council Meeting – Tuesday 9/1 @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room
312 West Whitewater St., Whitewater, Wisconsin
——————————-
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/270698644508687?p=ONbmaufadRKcUEm7LI
Meeting ID: 270 698 644 508 687
Passcode: bz3u3CF9
Dial in by phone
+1 929-229-5663
Phone conference ID: 331 399 099#

Landmarks Commission – Wednesday 9/2 @ 6:00 p.m.
No additional information was available at the time of this post. Check https://whitewater-wi.municodemeetings.com/ for updates.

The Whitewater Public Library has a full calendar of free events for all ages in September!

Events for all ages:

• Weird Science – Slime: Wednesday, 9/2 at 4:00-5:00 p.m.
• Super Smash Bros. League: Friday, 9/4 at 5:00-7:00 p.m.
• Family Jams: Saturday, 9/12 at 10:30-11:45 a.m.
• NASA IMAP Program: Tuesday, 9/15 at 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Multi-Gen Finanzas (en español): Lunes, 9/17 at 5:00-8:00 p.m.
• Ferradermis Robotics Demonstration: Saturday, 9/19 at 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
• Seed Saving and Swapping: Friday, 9/25 at 3:30-5:00 p.m.
• Hoo’s Woods Raptor Center: Monday, 9/28 at 2:00-3:00 p.m.
• Super Smash Bros Tournament: Wednesday, 6/17 at 3:00 p.m.

Events for children:

• LEGO Club: Monday, 9/14 at 4:00-6:00 p.m.
• Kid Lit and Crafts: Tuesdays starting on 9/15 at 3:30-4:30 p.m.
• Storytime: Wednesdays starting on 9/16 at 9:30-10:00 a.m.
• Wild Reading Early Literacy: Thursdays starting on 9/17 at 10:30-11:30 a.m.
• World of Words: Monday, 9/21 at 4:00-5:00 p.m.
• Homeschool Hangout: Tuesday, 9/22 at 10:00-11:00 a.m.
• Homeschool Art and Music Class: Tuesdays starting on 9/29 at 2:30-3:00 p.m.
• Art Class with UW-Whitewater: Tuesday, 9/29 at 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Events for teens:

• Teen DIY: Wednesday, 9/9 at 4:00-5:00 p.m.
• Teen Dungeons & Dragons (registration required): Monday, 9/21 at 5:30-8:00 p.m.
• Events for adults and teens:
• Makerspace 101—3D Printing (registration required): Tuesday, 9/8 at 6:00-7:00 p.m.
• Makerspace 101—Cricut (registration required): Tuesday, 9/22 at 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Events for adults:

• Intergenerational Technology Services: Mondays and Wednesdays starting on 9/9 at 12:00-1:30 p.m.
• Book Page Flowers: Thursday, 9/10 at 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Fiber Friday: 9/11 at 5:00-6:30 p.m.
• Adult Dungons & Dragons (registration required): Monday, 9/14 at 5:30-8:00 p.m.
• Red Cross Blood Drive: Friday, 9/18 at 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
• Author Talk–Sonya Naryshkin: Monday, 9/28 at 5:30-7:00 p.m.

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.

Photos submitted by Ed Grosskreutz