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The City of Whitewater has been awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for its biennial budget beginning January 1, 2026.
This prestigious award is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting and reflects the City’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and sound financial planning. According to GFOA, the award recognizes entities that meet the highest principles of governmental budgeting and demonstrate excellence in budget preparation and presentation.
To receive the award, the City’s budget document was evaluated on its effectiveness:
policy document
financial plan
operations guide
communications tool
The City of Whitewater’s Finance Department played a key role in achieving this distinction, ensuring the budget met nationally recognized guidelines and rigorous evaluation standards. The award is valid for two years and reflects a significant achievement in public financial management.
The GFOA serves more than 25,000 members across North America and promotes excellence in government finance through best practices, professional development, and research.
For more information about the City of Whitewater’s budget, visit www.whitewater-wi.gov
Written by Kristine Zaballos | Photo by Craig Schreiner
Six individuals who have achieved exceptional professional success or have made significant contributions to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater were honored as the university proudly celebrated its 158th anniversary in April.
The 2026 class of award honorees include a recent graduate who is both a senior leader in education and an acclaimed DJ, an avid supporter who was meaningfully involved in the recent release of the campus literary journal “Either/Or,” and an alum whose service to Whitewater — from board membership on the foundation to significant donations to support of student success to showing up to events big and small to help in any way needed — is being celebrated.
This year’s outstanding recent alum is Kyree Brooks, who earned a BSE in physical education in 2017. After earning a master’s degree in rehabilitation psychology and special education at UW-Madison in 2019, he has worked at the Madison Metropolitan and Sun Prairie school districts and now serves as assistant principal of the Milwaukee Academy of Science. He is also a music producer and owner of DJ Ree Maniac Entertainment Services LLC. Both professions benefit from his undeniable creativity and positivity.
UW-Whitewater is also honoring two distinguished alumni for their professional achievement. Maysee Yang Herr, who earned a B.A. in psychology in 1998, has had a decades-long career involving education, consulting and leadership roles as well as the co-creation of a Hmong language and culture program for youth called Camp Phoojywg-Friend in Central Wisconsin. In addition to earning a master’s degree in educational psychology and a doctorate in education and curriculum studies and teaching at UW-Stevens Point, she was the CEO of the Hmong Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce from 2019-2026.
Also receiving the Distinguished Alumni Award for Professional Achievement is Anthony Prater. Prater, who earned a Bachelor’s degree in political science in 1980, co-founded Verity Medical, Inc., which grew rapidly and achieved a $10 million revenue run rate within a decade of its founding. That company was ultimately sold to Examworks, Inc. and continues to operate today. Prater’s professional achievements also include co-founding and serving as a past president of the Wisconsin Worker’s Compensation Forum, which is an education-focused organization that supports industry professionals. On campus, he funds the Prater Family Scholarship, which is available to students majoring in the College of Letters and Sciences, and is a frequent class speaker for the management department in the College of Business and Economics.
Receiving the Distinguished Alumni Award for Community/Regional Service is Kurt D. Rose. Rose, who earned a bachelor’s degree in speech with an emphasis in organizational communications in 2009 and a Masters of Science in occupational and environmental safety and health in 2019, has held myriad HR roles and currently serves as a deputy human resources director with the City of Madison. Channeling a strong sense of service instilled by his family, who are all public servants, and fueled by his time on campus, he has been deeply involved with Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, incorporated, serving in many leadership roles, and returns to campus frequently to speak, guest lecture and work with students.
Denny Waldera is this year’s recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award for Service to UW-Whitewater. After earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1970 and a combined MBA and J.D. from Northwestern, Waldera carved out a distinguished career in strategic marketing, at Procter & Gamble and then in consulting companies he helped found and lead, before retiring in 2001. Since then, he has forged new ties on campus, serving in various roles on the UW-Whitewater Foundation Board of Directors, being a major donor to the Warhawks Give Fund and other student success-focused efforts, and actively supporting students in the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity as a brother.
The recipient of the S.A. White Award for Contributions to UW-Whitewater is Mary C. Rowin. Rowin and her husband Roger L. Rowin, who earned a bachelor’s degree in history in 1967 with minors in economics, English literature and political science, have made significant contributions to UW-Whitewater through endowments and supporting new initiatives. Since his passing in 2021, Rowin has been working to continue her husband’s legacy through the David W. Adamany Scholarship Endowment, the Roger L. and Mary C. Rowin Faculty Endowment, and providing substantial support to give the new literary journal “Either/Or” a proper launch and a solid foundation as it grows on the campus.
“This year’s award recipients exemplify the very best of Warhawk Bold — distinguished in their professions and deeply committed to their communities,” said Chancellor Corey A. King. “UW‑Whitewater continues to cultivate graduates who lead, inspire, and make a meaningful impact. It is a tremendous honor to recognize and celebrate these outstanding Warhawks.”
“We could not be more proud of this exceptional group of honorees, whose dedication to their communities, to UW‑Whitewater, and to student success shines so brightly,” said Amy Oeding ’90, executive director of alumni relations and annual giving. “Their remarkable accomplishments and unwavering commitment to service truly embody the spirit and strength of the Warhawk family.”
Also being honored are the 2026-2027 Lori & Eric Lorenz Outstanding Student Scholars, one from each of the university’s five undergraduate colleges. Each student receives a $1,000 scholarship in addition to their award.
- College of Arts and Communication — Anna Quartucci
- College of Business and Economics — Emma Henningfeld
- College of Education and Professional Studies — Sophie Stutzman
- College of Integrated Studies — Lex Cardoso-Reyes
- College of Letters and Sciences — Simon Michel
View more information on UW-Whitewater’s Distinguished Alumni awards »
For any questions, contact Amy Oeding, executive director of alumni relations and annual giving, at oedinga@uww.edu or 262-472-7033.
Jefferson County is proud to announce a free service for groups based in the County or serving County residents: Civic, school, non-profit, environmental, community, or other organizations can now reserve a speaker to present on a variety of topics of interest to area residents.
Sixteen of Jefferson County’s departments have made presentations in their areas of expertise available to the public, totaling more than 80 diverse topics. The Health Department, Human Services, and Sheriff’s Office offer nearly 50 presentations on public health, safety, awareness, and education. Those interested in Jefferson County’s natural and agricultural resources can choose from 15 presentations by experts in Land and Water Conservation, Parks, Jefferson County Fair, and UW Extension. All presentation topics are available on the Jefferson County website at the address included below.
“Our employees are dedicated to excellence in their chosen fields, and they appreciate opportunities to educate and inform their neighbors on topics that matter to County residents,” said Michael Luckey, Jefferson County Administrator. “I encourage everyone to review our presentations list and let us know if your group would like to learn more about a specific topic.”
If you need a speaker for a topic that is not listed or would like a customized presentation, please reach out to the applicable contact. Our experts will work with you to fulfill your request whenever possible.
To view the complete list of presentation topics and access contacts for scheduling a presentation:
https://www.jeffersoncountywi.gov/speakers_presentations_for_county_topics.php
For more about Jefferson County:
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Jefferson County. The city of Whitewater is split between Jefferson and Walworth counties.
Check out the great schedule of events for Saturday’s STEAM Faire at Whitewater High School! New this year, the Faire will have a live science demonstration stage at 10:30, 11:30, and 12:30. Also, the FFA will have their plant sale open with an opportunity to meet the small animals in the ag department.
The Faire will be open from 10:00 am until 2:30 pm.
Admission is $3 or free if you bring a donation for Lakeland Animal Shelter.
Carter Waelchli, a Communication – BA major from Whitewater, at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, is one of 16 Warhawks to claim a Wisconsin Community Media Best of the Midwest award for their work on UWW-TV during the 2025-26 academic year in Onalaska, WI, from April 30 – May 1, 2026.
Waelchli earned the following award for their work: 3rd place, Creative Student Media.
Award winners were recognized at the Midwest Media Fest Conference and Banquet on Thursday, April 30. Attendees had the opportunity to network and celebrate during the exhibitors’ reception and banquet.
The 2026 Midwest Media Fest Conference and Banquet celebrates local Public, Education, and Government (PEG) Access programming and Low-Power Community Radio programming. The event recognizes local programming produced by both professionals and amateurs and provides producers with feedback on their work from a slate of four judges.
The nine-state Alliance for Community Media Midwest Region includes Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
UWW-TV provides students with hands-on experience in producing high-quality content both behind the scenes and on camera.
To learn more about UWW-TV, visit uwwtv.org.
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater.
Brahms Birthday Celebration
Celebrate the birthday of Johannes Brahms with a special concert on May 7 featuring violinist Leanne Kelso and friends performing his lush and expressive Sextet No. 2 in G major. This beloved chamber work, full of warmth and lyrical beauty, is the perfect tribute to one of the great Romantic composers. Join us for an evening of exquisite music in honor of Brahms’ legacy.
Thursday, May 07, 2026 @ 7:30 PM
Light Recital Hall
950 W Main St, Whitewater, WI 53190
Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18
Tickets may be purchased online, at the ticket office – 950 W. Main St. – Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., or at the door.
See parking information below.
Whitewater Symphony Orchestra
The Young Performing Arts Center
930 W Main St, Whitewater, WI 53190
Friday, May 8, 2026 @ 7:30 p.m.
Immerse yourself in the powerful sound of the Whitewater Symphony Orchestra, UW-Whitewater’s premier orchestral ensemble. Featuring talented student musicians, the orchestra presents compelling performances of classical masterworks. Join us for an evening of artistry, passion, and musical excellence that will inspire audiences of all ages.
Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for those age 65+ or under age 18
Tickets may be purchased online, at the ticket office – 950 W. Main St. – Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., or at the door.
There is no charge for parking on the weekend.
Parking information
Parking: A permit is required to park in University lots and on Prince Street north of Main Street during events that take place Monday – Thursday. The closest lots are Lots 1 and 2. Permits may be purchased at the kiosk at the Visitors’ Center on Starin Road. To purchase a permit online, visit uww.aimsparking.com and follow these steps:
1. Select: Purchase UW-W Special Event Permits
2. Agree to Terms of Service
3. Select Event Type: CENTER OF THE ARTS
4. Select the event you are attending
5. Select Permit Type: EVENT GUEST
6. Dates will automatically fill in
7. Click Add Vehicle
8. Enter license plate, make, model and color vehicle; Click ADD
9. Follow the remaining prompts to complete registration process
NOTE: Your license plate is your permit; be sure to enter plate correctly to avoid tickets. Plates not entered correctly are subject to $5 tickets. Do not park in stalls with any type of sign. If you need to change your plate, call 262-472-1011 during business hours Mon-Fri 7:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Albert’s Dog Lounge Rescue has announced that it will be welcoming 30 beagles from Ridglan Farms as part of a large-scale release involving approximately 1,500 dogs across Wisconsin rescue organizations.
The transfer marks the beginning of a new chapter for the dogs, many of whom will require extensive medical care and behavioral rehabilitation as they transition out of a commercial breeding environment and into foster-based rescue programs.
Albert’s Dog Lounge confirmed that preparations for intake have been underway for weeks. The organization has secured a network of experienced fosters specifically equipped to handle the unique and often complex needs of dogs coming from situations like this.
“We have been actively preparing for this moment,” said Mandy Lewis, Founder and President of Albert’s Dog Lounge. “Our focus is, and always will be, on quality of care over quantity. These dogs deserve the time, resources, and support it takes to truly recover—not just physically, but emotionally.”
The organization emphasized that it is not currently accepting foster or adoption applications for the Ridglan beagles. Each dog will undergo a comprehensive intake process that includes veterinary evaluation, diagnostics, spay/neuter procedures, and a period of decompression and rehabilitation. This process is expected to take weeks, if not months.
Community members interested in adopting are encouraged instead to consider dogs currently available through Albert’s Dog Lounge, helping to create space and resources for incoming animals.
Caring for the 30 beagles is expected to cost an estimated $30,000, or approximately $1,000 per dog. Expenses include medical treatment, high-quality nutrition, supplements, bedding, and specialized safety equipment. Due to their backgrounds, the dogs are considered high flight risks and will require enhanced containment and monitoring protocols.
Albert’s Dog Lounge is asking for community support through monetary donations, supply contributions via its public wish list, and social media sharing to help offset the significant costs associated with this effort.
The dogs are expected to arrive on or around Thursday, May 7, 2026. Updates will be shared on their social media once they have safely arrived and begun the transition process.
Albert’s Dog Lounge also asks the public to remain respectful in discussions surrounding this situation.
“Our role is to help the dogs in front of us,” Lewis added. “We ask that the focus remain on supporting their recovery and giving them the future they deserve.”
How to Support the Ridglan Beagles:
Donations can be made directly through Albert’s Dog Lounge Rescue’s website and social media channels. Supporters can also contribute by purchasing needed supplies through the organization’s public wish list, available via links and QR codes posted on Albert’s Dog Lounge social media pages and website.
For updates, donation links, and wish list access, please visit:
Wishlist: https://a.co/07T6iSXR
Website: Albertsdoglounge.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlbertsDogLounge
To donate via PayPal or credit card: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=HBS96EVNRHQBL
Venmo (please watch for scammers): https://account.venmo.com/u/albertsdoglounge
Snail Mail:
Albert’s Dog Lounge
N7285 Woodfield Lane
Whitewater, WI 53190
Editor’s note: Albert’s Dog Lounge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.
The city and Discover Whitewater have installed a new electronic message board in Flat Iron Park (where the Birge Fountain is located). The sign will replace the banners that have been hung over Main Street at various times to encourage voting and announce pancake breakfasts and other events.
Michelle Dujardin of the Parks and Recreation Department told The Whitewater Banner that the department is in the process of creating a policy that will address what kinds of messages may be placed on the sign and what the charges will be for an announcement. The Banner will post this information as it is provided to us.
Obituaries
Lois Cummings, 99, of Fond du Lac, WI (formerly of Janesville, WI, Fort Atkinson, WI, Fountain Hills, AZ, and Green Valley, AZ) passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026 at the Meadows Senior Residence in Fond du Lac surrounded by family. Lois was born on February 17, 1927 in Fort Atkinson to Edward and Clarice (Roseth) Stevens. The middle child of 9 children, she attended Fort Atkinson schools and graduated in 1944. On September 11, 1948 Lois married Grant Cummings at Saint Andrew Catholic Church in Delavan, WI. Together they had 3 children, Gary, Colleen (Tom) Sabel, and Patty (Paul) … Read more
Come celebrate William Kincaid’s Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 30th at 1 pm at Trippe Lake Park Pavillion in Whitewater. He truly enjoyed gatherings where his favorite foods and music could be enjoyed with some of his closest friends and family. We will honor him by carrying on one of his favorite traditions. Please bring your own beverages and chairs. There is limited seating. See you all there!
Gladys Jean (Riley) Hildebrandt, age 89, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 23, 2026. Gladys was born on December 26, 1936, in Whitewater, Wisconsin, to Theresa Egnoski Riley. She was married to Walter Sobolik Sr., and later married James A. Hildebrandt in 1976. Gladys was a hardworking woman who spent her life caring for others. She worked in school kitchens, restaurants, factories, and cleaning services. She concluded her working career as a full-time nanny. In that role, she lovingly cared for Andrew, Daniel, and Kaitlyn Drzewiecki, who became part of her chosen family. Gladys is survived by her sons, Wally … Read more
WHITEWATER – Nan Rowley died on April 15, 2026, at the age of 90. She was born on September 4, 1935, in a little house on the prairie in the Town of Johnstown, Wisconsin, the daughter of Wayne L. Wilbur and Florence (McQuillen) Wilbur. Nan attended primary schools in the towns of Johnstown and Richmond and in the City of Whitewater. Nan graduated with honors from Whitewater City High School. On June 19, 1954, Nancy and Ken Rowley were united in marriage in Whitewater and went to live on the Rowley family farm in Richmond. Over the years, Nan served … Read more
Marion H. Gorniak (nee Pfeiffer), 74, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 11, 2026. She was born on October 24, 1951, to the late Harvey and Loraine (nee Drifke) Pfeiffer in Fort Atkinson, WI. On June 2, 1969, she was united in marriage to Alan Gorniak. She enjoyed gardening, flowers, and cooking, especially her rhubarb pies. She especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends and will be missed by all who knew her. Those Marion leaves behind to cherish her memory include her husband, Alan Gorniak; stepson, Alan Bauer; sister, Sue Ann Schultz, other relatives and friends. … Read more
Ruth Irene (Phelps) Justis, 88, of Appleton City, Missouri, passed away Friday morning, April 10, 2026, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg, MO, with her family by her side. Ruth was born June 3, 1937 in Janesville, Wisconsin, to Charles and Ada Mae (Maly) Phelps. She joined the Marine Corps in 1956. During her time there, she met and married her husband, Forest Wayne “Wayne” Justis in 1957. They shared 62 years of marriage and to this union, 2 children, Charles and Dorene, were born. Ruth grew up in Whitewater, WI., the oldest of three children. Ruth graduated from … Read more
Dorothy C. Kau, age 101, of Eagle, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Fort Memorial Hospital. Dorothy was born on March 18, 1925 in Eagle on the family farm, the daughter of John and Katherine (Faestel) VonRueden. Dorothy was a 1942 graduate of Palmyra High School. On May 21, 1949, Dorothy was united in marriage to Alvin E. Kau at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Eagle and the Lord blessed their union with 8 children. Alvin and Dorothy enjoyed 50 years of marriage together until Alvin’s death in the year 2000. Dorothy enjoyed being a farm … Read more
Dorothy E. McCracken, 95, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, in Sarasota, Florida. Born on April 14, 1930, in Whitewater, Wisconsin, to Carl and Joyce Meyer, Dorothy grew up in Whitewater and graduated from Whitewater High School. She then worked for a photographer and hand painted his first colored portraits, until she got married. She and her first husband, Bernard Wafle, owned and operated a 179-acre dairy farm in Helenville, Wisconsin, for 25 years before relocating to Ocala, Florida, in 1979. Dorothy later married Earl McCracken, in Ocala, Fl. She also shared a special companionship later in life with … Read more
Carol Ann Seebruch, 88 of Whitewater passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, April 3, 2026. Carol was born July 12, 1937 in Chicago IL to William and Ann Borovec. She married Marvin Seebruch on June 9, 1984. Carol and Marvin enjoyed traveling the United States making it to 48 of the 50 states. She also enjoyed her time with the Red Hat Ladies. She loved taking pictures of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Carol is survived by her three children; Bill Anderson of Fort Atkinson, WI, Terri Laban of Whitewater, WI, and Donna (Mike) Jones of Crivitz, WI. She … Read more
Entered God’s Kingdom on Friday, April 3, 2026, age 65. Donna is survived by her cousins, other family and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents James and Lois (Michels) Lyons. Donna was raised in the Church of Nazarene, with her father being the assistant pastor. Religion was very important to Donna. Donna enjoyed working with the students of the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, where she resided. Donna also loved to travel, visiting France, Italy, and all around the United States. She also loved to paint, cross-stitch, knit, and crochet. She also loved collecting recipes and trying … Read more
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