Annaliese Rave, a 16-year-old junior at Black River Falls
High School, has been named the 2026–2027 Warrens Cranberry Queen.
Rave, whose Ho-Chunk name is Naajupii, meaning “Good Hair,”
will represent the Warrens cranberry industry and surrounding communities
throughout her reign.
The title primarily serves Monroe County, with appearances
extending into the Tomah, Sparta and Black River Falls areas.
Outside of her royal duties, Rave stays active in several
extracurricular activities. She serves as co-captain of the cheerleading team,
competes as a varsity wrestler, works as a figure skater and coach, and is a
founder of her high school's debate team.
Rave said she decided to run for Cranberry Queen to learn
more about Wisconsin's agricultural industry while encouraging other young
women, particularly Indigenous girls, to explore opportunities in agriculture,
public speaking and community leadership.
She hopes to use her title to inspire young girls to step
outside their comfort zones, try new things and consider their future goals.
Rave also plans to give back to her community by donating
the scholarship awarded to the queen by the royalty committee to a charity of
her choice.
For Rave, one of the most meaningful parts of representing
the area is the community itself. She said her favorite part of living in Black
River Falls is its diversity and the way residents support and uplift one
another.