News & Events

Join the UW–Madison La Follette School of Public Affairs on Tuesday, April 1 at 7 p.m. at the Memorial Union in Madison for a public presentation from Linda Thomas-Greenfield on The Art of Negotiation.

In a moderated conversation with La Follette School Director Susan Webb Yackee, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will share policy insights and evidence-based solutions from her 40-plus years in the Foreign Service. As a skilled negotiator who has worked at the highest levels of government, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will discuss strategies for constructive and respectful interactions with those with differing opinions. Event attendees will be invited to submit a question for Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield prior to the event.

“The La Follette School is committed to promoting thoughtful, informed policy conversations at both the domestic and international levels,” says Yackee. “We are thrilled to host Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield, who has extensive experience in international policy and in modeling respect and compromise in policymaking.”

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield has had a storied career in the United States government, serving in many distinguished positions under both Republican and Democratic administrations including U.S. Ambassador to Liberia, Director General of the U.S. Foreign Service, Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, and most recently as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.

This event is open to the public and available in person at Memorial Union in Madison. Registration is required.

The presentation is part of the La Follette School’s Policymaker in Residence speaker series. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s visit is made possible by the Kohl Initiative, the Paul Offner Lecture Series, Wisconsin Public Radio, the UW–Madison Law School, and the UW–Madison International Division.

About the La Follette School of Public Affairs 
The Robert M. La Follette School of Public Affairs at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is a leading academic institution with a 40-year history of improving the design, implementation, and evaluation of public policy and the practice of governance. The school was built on the foundation of the UW–Madison Center for the Study of Public Policy and Administration, which was established in 1967 under the Department of Political Science. In 1983, the Wisconsin Legislature formally separated the center from the Department of Political Science. The school officially opened in 1984, now named after Robert M. La Follette, the former Wisconsin governor and U.S. senator who is regarded as one of the most celebrated figures in the state’s history. Today, the La Follette School offers domestic and international master’s degrees in public affairs as well as certificates for undergraduate students. La Follette School faculty, alumni, students, and staff extend the practice of the Wisconsin Idea across the state and around the world through research and outreach that inspires evidence-based policymaking, impacts society’s pressing problems, and advances the public good.

Department of Music Presents a Dynamic Lineup of April Performances

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s College of Arts and Communication proudly presents its April concert series, showcasing a dynamic array of performances by faculty, students and guest artists. Unless otherwise noted, all music events take place in Light Recital Hall at the Greenhill Center of the Arts, located at 950 West Main Street, Whitewater, WI 53190. Tickets are available in advance at tickets.uww.edu, in person, or by calling 262-472-2222. A $2 surcharge applies to tickets purchased at the door at the time of the event. Free parking is available in lot 1. April Concert Highlights: April 1, 7:30 p.m. – Music Mosaics: Humorous Music Enjoy a night of laughter and vibrant melodies as faculty musicians perform works by composers who had a sense of humor. This is no April Fool’s joke—expect an entertaining and unique musical experience. Adults, $10; Age 65+ or Under 18, $6. April 6, 7:30 p.m. – UW-Whitewater Clarinet Ensemble Witness the world premieres of two dynamic compositions by UW-Whitewater faculty member Christian Ellenwood: “Frazzled Dazzle Dance Suite” and “Sweet Rhythm Suite.” Adults, $7; Age 65+ or Under age 18, $4 April 8, 7:30 p.m. – Jazz Ensemble II Spring Concert Experience the energy and innovation of UW-Whitewater’s talented student musicians in an evening of jazz ensemble and solo performances.Adults, $7; Age 65+ or Under age 18, $4 April 10, 7:30 p.m. – Jazz Combos Concert Enjoy an intimate night of jazz, featuring small ensemble performances that highlight the creativity and improvisational skills of UW-Whitewater students. Adults, $7; Age 65+ or Under age 18, $4 April 13, 3 p.m. – Harmonia, Hawk Kor, and Concert Choirs A powerful collaboration of vocal ensembles presenting a diverse repertoire of choral music. Adults, $7; Age 65+ or Under age 18, $4 April 15, 7:30 p.m. – Percussion Ensemble A thrilling performance featuring marimba quartets and large percussion ensembles. Adults, $7; Age 65+ or Under age 18, $4 April 17, 7:30 p.m. – Jazz Ensemble I Spring Concert Celebrate the season with a high-energy performance from UW-Whitewater’s premier jazz ensemble. Adults, $7; Age 65+ or Under age 18, $4 April 24, 7:30 p.m. – Sonict: Nick Zoulek Modern saxophonist and UW-Whitewater alumnus Nick Zoulek takes the stage, offering an immersive musical experience combining performance, multimedia art, and improvisation. This concert also includes a special CD release event. Adults, $7; Age 65+ or Under age 18, $4 April 27, 7:30 p.m. – Chancellor’s Quartet and Baroque Ensemble An evening of chamber music and small string orchestra masterpieces. Adults, $7; Age 65+ or Under age 18, $4 April 28, 7:30 p.m. – University/Community Band (The Young Performing Arts Center) The final concert of the month features a collaborative performance celebrating the talents of university and community musicians. Adults, $7; Age 65+ or Under age 18, $4 Additional Information Beyond these ticketed events, the Department of Music hosts numerous free performances, including student recitals and ensemble showcases. For a full schedule, visit uww.edu/coac/events.  Box Office Information Tickets can be purchased online, by phone at 262-472-2222, or in person. The Ticket Services office, located in the atrium of the Greenhill Center of the Arts, is open Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. during the academic year.

The Whitewater Federation of Women’s Clubs (WFWC) is thrilled to announce the launch of its second annual Bassett House Spring Concert Series, which promises to be even more delightful than its inaugural season last year.

The first concert of this season’s series will be a highly anticipated performance by the Rock River Woodwind Quintet on Sunday, April 6, 2025. The second concert will feature the talented students of Leanne Kelso’s String Studio on Sunday, May 11, 2025. The third concert will be a recital by cellists Benjamin Whitcomb and Evan Lopez on Sunday, June 15, 2025.

All concerts will be held at 1:00 PM at the Bassett House, 708 W. Main Street, Whitewater.

Ticket prices are $30 per concert or $75 for the series. Make checks out to the WFWC and mail them to Linda Robinson at 957 W. Highland Street/Whitewater, WI 53190. Alternatively, you may pay via Paypal to the Whitewater Federation of Women’s Clubs. In either case, please make sure we have your name and address, and please indicate the number of tickets you want and for which concerts. Space is limited, so buy your tickets soon.

All proceeds will go to the Bassett House Preservation Fund, which the WFWC will use to ensure the preservation of the Bassett House, one of Whitewater’s oldest historic homes. The Bassett House is located at 708 W. Main Street in Whitewater.

For more information, visit our website at bassetthousewww.org or contact Linda Robinson at linrob73@gmail.com

Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the Whitewater Federation of Women’s Clubs.

The National Wrestling Hall of Fame, and the Wisconsin Chapter, have announced the upcoming induction of seven individuals into the Hall of Fame for “Lifetime Service to Wrestling” or as “Outstanding American,” indicating, “This award is to honor and recognize people for their years of commitment as positive role models to our student athletes.”

One of the 2025 honorees is the late Greg Aprahamian, who was known and appreciated by many in Whitewater. As was mentioned in his obituary, “He invested in properties in Whitewater and made great strides in revitalizing the downtown area.”

The National Wrestling Hall of Fame said of the honorees, “These individuals have given countless hours of their time instilling in young people the skills needed to succeed in all areas of life.  They and their legacy will be permanently recognized at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum in Stillwater, Oklahoma.”

The Hall of Fame Honors Ceremony/Banquet will be held at Chula Vista in Wisconsin Dells on Sunday, May 18, 2025. 

Greg’s family provided The Whitewater Banner with the following bio and list of accomplishments.

Early Life and Family
Greg Aprahamian was born on August 22, 1962, to Dr. Charles and Patricia Aprahamian. As the
second youngest of six brothers, Greg grew up in a household where four older siblings taught
him resilience and toughness from an early age.

High School Achievements
Greg excelled as an athlete at Brookfield East High School, starring on the football and track and
field teams. However, wrestling was his true passion. Pouring his heart and soul onto the mat, he
built an impressive high school wrestling career.

Education and Early Career
Greg knew early on he wanted to be an educator and coach. He began his higher education at
UW-Platteville, wrestling with the team, before transferring to UW-Stout. There, he earned a
Bachelor of Science in Technology Education, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Driven to
advance, he returned to UW-Platteville for a Master’s Degree in Industrial Technology,
completed in 1987.

Coaching Career at Muskego
In 1987, Greg joined the Muskego School District as a teacher and coach for football, track and
field, and wrestling—a sport with a strong tradition at Muskego. Starting as an assistant
wrestling coach, he became head coach in 1992, serving until 1998. His pinnacle came in 1994
when he led Muskego to its first and only Team State Championship. That year, he also earned
Coach of the Year, an honor he deeply cherished. His dual meet record was an impressive 116-
29, with a near-perfect 48-1 in conference duals, three Team State appearances, and numerous
state qualifiers and place winners.

Building a Legacy at Kettle Moraine
In 1999, Greg took a teaching and coaching role at Kettle Moraine High School. The wrestling
team initially had talent but lacked numbers—a challenge he met by recruiting from his football
and track teams, including novices and former wrestlers. His strategy transformed the underdog
squad into a powerhouse. In 2001, he led Kettle Moraine to its first and only Classic 8
Conference Championship. Over his tenure, he coached 10 state place winners, one state
champion, and many qualifiers, solidifying his reputation as a program builder.

Coaching His Children at Mukwonago
From 2006 to 2012, Greg coached at Mukwonago High School to guide his sons, Ryan and
Tyler, donating his salary to fund mats and assistant coaches. His daughters, Brittany and Megan,
served as team managers and statisticians, helping the team secure multiple Team State
appearances and Conference Championships. After his sons graduated, he returned to Kettle
Moraine, coaching middle schoolers with Tyler to spark interest in high school wrestling.
Planning to retire in 2018, Greg coached his final year of teaching, staying close to the wrestlers
he mentored.

Supporting Ryan’s Wrestling Journey
Greg’s oldest son, Ryan, wrestled at UW-Whitewater, where the team placed second nationally
in 2014. Greg and his wife, Tammy, enjoyed traveling with other parents to cheer at meets and
tournaments, proud of Ryan’s dedication and the team’s success.

Lifelong Learning
Beyond his degrees, Greg pursued additional coursework throughout his career, reflecting his
commitment to growth. Licensed to teach Technology, Science, Engineering, Construction, and
Automotives, he was an accomplished educator and coach with over 30 years of experience. He
helped student-athletes reach their potential, leading teams to victories. Greg taught wrestlers to
improve form and use techniques to boost speed and endurance while minimizing injury risk. He
guided them to peak performance, priding himself on core conditioning, collaboration, effective
methods, and enthusiasm. He also instilled motivation and dedication in his own children.

Legacy and Family
Tragically, Greg passed away unexpectedly on January 18, 2023, just before he and Tammy
were to enjoy retirement. He left a rich legacy, touching countless lives through his years of
teaching and coaching. Survived by four adult children—Brittany (Daniel) Dubnicka, Ryan
(Daysi) Aprahamian, Tyler Aprahamian, and Megan (Daniel) Edwards—his memory lives on
through his grandchildren, Raylee, Drew, Max, Jackson, and Gregory, with hopes of more to
come, and in the many lives he shaped as a coach, teacher, and father.

Muskego:

• 116-29 Dual Meet Record
• 48-1 Conference Dual Meet Record
• 3 Team State Appearances
• Team State Championship in 1994
• Coach of the Year 1994
  
  Kettle Moraine:
• Led Kettle Moraine to its first and only Classic 8 Conference Championship in 2001
• 10 State place winners
• 1 State Champion
  
  Mukwonago:
• 7 seasons with Mukwonago, teams won Classic 8 Conference 6 out of 7 seasons
• Team State appearances in 2006, 2007, 2011
• Team state semifinals 2011
  
• Achievement:
  Coached at 3 different Classic 8 Conference Teams: Muskego, Kettle Moraine, Mukwonago

The following are links for the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and the Wisconsin Chapter. Wendall Bean was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 2022.
https://nwhof.org/
https://nwhof.org/state-chapters
https://nwhof.org/state-chapters/wisconsin

It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.

Our last image in the Fairhaven series of flashbacks is one that celebrates the staff of the facility. One of Fairhaven’s attractions is the good service that is given to the older residents. This image is probably from the 1970s and is marked “Housekeeping Staff at Fairhaven.” The women in the photo are Mary Hoffman, Dolores Boynton, Donna Miles, Dorothy Kadlec, Marie Leider, Evah Wimer, Vivian Henderson, Marion Olson, Gerry Behadich, and Edna Linson.

Join us next week as we celebrate spring with the Whitewater Historical Society!

(2678P, Whitewater Historical Society)

Rainbow Community Care is excited to announce that the Rainbow Thrift Shoppe will soon open at 905 Madison Avenue in Fort Atkinson!

To get the store up and running, Rainbow Thrift Shoppe is seeking volunteers as well as donations of gently used, clean, and resalable items. Volunteers will assist with store operations, sorting donations, staging displays, and stocking items. 

Proceeds from the sale of donated goods will help improve the lives of patients and families served by Rainbow Community Care through its hospice, palliative care, advance care planning, grief support, parish nursing, and volunteer programs. 

We invite the public to join us at one of our three volunteer and donation recruitment events: 

– Thursday, April 3rd, from 4 PM to 7 PM 

– Friday, April 4th, from 2 PM to 5 PM 

– Saturday, April 5th, from 9 AM to 12 PM 

We are planning a soft opening on Monday, April 14th, from 10 AM to 6 PM, followed by a grand opening on Monday, April 28th, from 10 AM to 6 PM. Hours are planned to be Monday through Friday, 10-6 and Saturday, 9-1. Stay tuned for more information at RainbowThriftShoppe.org.

Editor’s note: The image on the homepage is not from the Rainbow Thrift Shoppe. We appreciate having permission to use it from Carla Burke from Pixabay.

Brindley Martin Launches “Hearts for the Arts” Jewelry to help with Art Scholarships

Studio 84 is thrilled to announce the launch of Brindley Martin’s “Hearts for the Arts” limited edition heart-shaped jewelry that will benefit the scholarship program that helps others with special needs attend art and dance classes. 100% of the proceeds from Brindley’s whimsical jewelry will go directly to funding Studio 84 classes for those in need.

Brindley Martin, an artist who has autism, has been attending Studio 84 for more than ten years, and he has always loved painting with brilliant colors. He especially enjoys making what he calls “drip-drops,” which involves pouring different colored paints from cups onto a canvas. Crafting pieces from Brindley’s colorful “drop-drops” into jewelry has resulted in miniature, one-of-a-kind pieces of art sweetly displayed in beautiful heart-shaped pendants and keychains.

“Studio 84 has been a blessing to Brindley and our family in multiple ways, and we wanted to find a way to give back. We understand that not everyone has the opportunity to participate in art and dance classes, so this is our way of supporting others,” says Anjie Kokan, Brindley’s mom. “Brin has always found such joy at Studio 84, both in creating and dancing. We would love for more people to experience this kind of joy, too.”

Studio 84, a nonprofit art studio located in downtown Whitewater, provides fully accessible opportunities in the arts to enrich people’s lives by focusing on the strengths and abilities of each individual by encouraging the creative voice with self-directed activities, thus inspiring self-worth, pride, confidence and acceptance.

Brindley Martin’s “Hearts for the Arts” pendants and keychains can be purchased at Studio 84 and the Whitewater Arts Alliance in downtown Whitewater, or at Rainabobaina’s in Palmyra. To find out more about art and dance at Studio 84, please call (262) 473-9845.

Lauren Francl of Whitewater, Wisconsin, was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at St. Norbert College.

Francl is among approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 300 campuses in the United States, its territories and the Philippines. Its mission is to “cultivate a community that celebrates and advances the love of learning.”

About Phi Kappa Phi

Founded in 1897, Phi Kappa Phi is the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Phi Kappa Phi inducts approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni annually. The Society has chapters on more than 300 select colleges and universities in the United States, its territories and the Philippines. Membership is by invitation only to the top 10 percent of seniors and graduate students and 7.5 percent of juniors. Faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction also qualify. The Society’s mission is to “cultivate a community that celebrates and advances the love of learning.” For more information, visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org.