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City of Whitewater Introduces Colby the C.O.W. – Your Multilingual Virtual Assistant
The City of Whitewater is proud to announce the launch of its newest digital tool, Colby the C.O.W. (Chatbot of Whitewater), a chatbot designed to assist residents, visitors, and businesses with a wide range of inquiries. Colby is not just any chatbot—it’s a multilingual virtual assistant capable of answering questions in 82 different languages, ensuring accessibility and inclusion for all members of our diverse community.
“We’re excited to introduce Colby the C.O.W. as part of our commitment to improving communication and service delivery,” said Becky Magestro, Chief of Staff. “Colby is here 24/7 to provide quick, reliable answers to questions about city services, events, permits, and more. Plus, its multilingual capabilities make it an invaluable resource for our residents and visitors from all over the world.”
What Can Colby Do? Colby the C.O.W. is equipped to:
- Answer questions about city services such as garbage collection, utility bills, and parks and recreation programs.
- Provide information about upcoming events and city meetings.
- Guide users through the process of obtaining permits, licenses, and other city documentation.
- Offer details about local attractions, resources, and community programs.
- Communicate in 82 different languages, making city information accessible to non-English speakers.
How to Access Colby the C.O.W.
Colby is available on the City of Whitewater’s official website at www.whitewater-wi.gov. Simply click the chatbot icon located on the homepage to start a conversation. Users can type their questions or select from a list of common topics to get immediate assistance.
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La ciudad de Whitewater Presenta Colby the C.O.W. – Su Asistente Virtual Multilingüe
La ciudad de Whitewater se enorgullece en anunciar el lanzamiento de su nueva herramienta digital, Colby the C.O.W. (Chatbot of Whitewater), un chatbot diseñado para ayudar a los residentes, visitantes y empresas con una amplia gama de consultas. Colby no es un chatbot cualquiera, es un asistente virtual multilingüe capaz de responder preguntas en 82 idiomas diferentes, lo que garantiza la accesibilidad y la inclusión de todos los miembros de nuestra diversa comunidad.
“Estamos muy contentos de presentar Colby the C.O.W. como parte de nuestro compromiso de mejorar la comunicación y la prestación de servicios”, dijo Becky Magestro, Jefa de Personal. “Colby está aquí las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana
para brindar respuestas rápidas y confiables a preguntas sobre servicios de la ciudad, eventos, permisos y más. Además, sus capacidades multilingües lo convierten en un recurso invaluable para nuestros residentes y visitantes de todo el mundo”.
¿Qué puede hacer Colby? Colby el C.O.W. está equipado para:
- Responder preguntas sobre los servicios de la ciudad, como la recolección de basura, las facturas de servicios públicos y los programas de parques y recreación.
- Proporcionar información sobre los próximos eventos y reuniones de la ciudad.
- Guiar a los usuarios a través del proceso de obtención de permisos, licencias y otra documentación de la ciudad.
- Ofrecer detalles sobre atracciones locales, recursos y programas comunitarios.
- Comunícate en 82 idiomas diferentes, haciendo que la información de la ciudad sea accesible para personas que no hablan inglés.
Cómo acceder a Colby el C.O.W.
Colby está disponible en el sitio web oficial de la ciudad de Whitewater en www.whitewater-wi.gov. Simplemente haga clic en el icono del chatbot ubicado en la página de inicio para iniciar una conversación. Los usuarios pueden escribir sus preguntas o seleccionar de una lista de temas comunes para obtener asistencia inmediata.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Unites Lives (WUL.)
Ross Walton is a WUL Hometown Hero, and he was nominated by Madeline Kanas, “For always giving hours of his time, energy, and resources to help out fellow community members and businesses.”
Madeline said, “As a Whitewater native, Ross has always given back to his community. He has worked alongside the City of Whitewater and UW-Whitewater to enhance what our community has to offer. Those who know him personally, know he will drop everything to help others. He has been the first on scene to a few of the fires at John’s Disposal. Ross is very humble and likes to stay out of the spotlight, but I feel it’s time to publicly acknowledge all he does for our community.”
WUL (Whitewater Unites Lives) is a locally-focused civil and human rights group that works to connect the people in our community and to create opportunities for all people to learn and support each other in our common humanity.
Anyone who would like to nominate a local hero of any age should send their nomination, with a short description, to whitewaterunites@gmail.com
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. The Whitewater Historical Society wishes everyone a Merry Christmas via this greeting postcard from 1917 sent to Clara Williams of Whitewater. Many think that the modern image of Santa came from the Coca Cola advertisements in the 1930s, but this 1917 card shows that modern Santa was already illustrated in the early 20th century.
(Whitewater Historical Society, greeting post card collection)
The Whitewater Whippets were blown out and run out of the gym by the Monona Grove Silver Eagles on Monday night in boys’ basketball. The final score was 82-42. Whitewater started off the game strong with an opening three pointer by senior Marcos Sagrero. The Whippets were tied with the Silver Eagles at 14-14 early in the first half, but Monona Grove applied pressure on defense and attacked the open court to build a 51-20 lead at halftime.
WHS was led in scoring by Marcos Sagrero with 13 points, and Matthew Carollo added 11. Leading scorer Austen Luchette was one of four Silver Eagles in double figures. He had 19 points.
Monona Grove is 3-1, and the Whippets fall to 1-4. Whitewater High School goes to East Troy on Friday night and then plays in the Win Parkinson Tournament at Milwaukee Bradley Tech on Saturday.
Article by Michael McCabe
Whitewater High School Head Boys’ Basketball Coach
mccmi01@wwusd.org
On Tuesday, December 17th the Whippet Boys’ Swim Team competed against Burlington Co-op. The Whippets beat Burlington by a score of 95 to 72. There were quite a few best times and some first-time swims for a few swimmers.
The 200 Freestylers took a clean sweep of 1st thru 3rd. Cruz Aranda went a best time of 1:55.80. Mateo Bazeley and Andrew O’Toole both had great times for their first time swimming the event!
Miles Nickelsburg and Myles Morse battled it out in the 200 IM; this was a first time swim in this event for the two of them. Both put up good times and we’re looking forward to watching them drop throughout the season.
In the 50 Freestyle, all swimmers went season best times! Jack Hefty went a 24.92, Wyatt Esch went a 27.39, Sam Nickelsburg had a 2 second drop going a 30.73, and Angel Kilar went a 34.32!
All swimmers in the 100 Butterfly also went season best times! Cruz Aranda went a 1:00.64. With this time, it now puts him 7th on the Whippet Top 10 List! Langdon Coburn dropped 2 seconds to go a time of 1:02.57, and Sam Nickelsburg also dropped 2 seconds to go a time of 1:13.99.
Angel Kilar dropped 3 seconds in the 100 Freestyle and is officially under the 1:20 mark by going a time of 1:19.77. David Enns also swam a season best time by going a 1:06.59.
Myles Morse dropped 4 seconds in his 500 Freestyle to go a time of 5:59.38. Wyatt Esch dropped nearly 13 seconds off his time going a time of 6:41.78.
Jack Hefty dropped 2 seconds in the 100 Breaststroke to go a time of 1:16.66.
The Whippets are back in action on Thursday, December 19th at home against Jefferson/Cambridge! Swimming starts at 5:30pm; come out and cheer on the boys!
Article and Photo Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
ReynoldsSM07@uww.edu
By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
At its December 17 meeting the City of Whitewater Common Council declined to adopt the part-time closure of Starin Road that was recommended by the Public Works Committee. Out of concern for pedestrian safety, University staff had requested approval to erect an electronic gate which would close the portion of Starin Road from Warhawk Drive to the street to the east of the bookstore. It was suggested that the closure occur on Monday through Friday during the university’s fall and spring terms, possibly from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
After a period of public comment and Council debate that lasted for approximately an hour, it was decided to implement the following traffic calming measures through the spring semester:
- Install a yet-to-be determined number of stop signs within the area of concern, [which it appears might extend to Prince Street and Starin Road.]
- Reduce the speed limit to 15 miles per hour from the current 25.
- Install temporary speed humps (which are usually not as high as a speed bump and are longer).
It was decided that the Council will review the outcome of this trial in its second meeting in June, with the expectation that if it is not deemed to be successful in improving pedestrian safety, they would consider moving forward with what might be described as a part-time closure. There was interest expressed in the possibility of a somewhat shorter daily closure, focusing on the heavier pedestrian traffic periods. Though there was ultimately unanimous approval of the motion, Council members Greg Majkrzak and Orin Smith had favored moving ahead with the Public Works Committee’s recommendation as soon as possible.
Public comment on the original recommendation began with a rather lengthy, impassioned presentation in favor of the closure by Brenda Jones, Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administrative Affairs. It was her view that the drivers who would be most affected by the closure are university employees and students. She disagreed with stereotypes of large numbers of students being distracted by using their phones while crossing the street. She did not feel that the concerns from police, fire and EMS that the closure would significantly delay emergency responses, as those personnel could be provided with electronic access.
Comments from students, other community members, and council members about the original proposal were very mixed. Council member Brown spoke about the increasing popularity of “green zones” for pedestrians in university campus properties. A number of comments were made about hazardous street crossings for public school students. Douglas A. Bradley III, Whitewater Student Government president, spoke in favor of the proposal, stating that he feels more safe crossing Main Street than Starin Road. Jani Kau Mortensen, who retired from the university as a shuttle driver, spoke against the proposal, feeling that it would put all the responsibility on drivers. She indicated a need to correct an urban legend that if a student is hit by a vehicle, they get their college expenses covered. Jeff Knight indicated that when the Starin Road extension was planned there was an extensive traffic study conducted, and he feels it is time for another. Larry Kachel felt that there should be an answer to the concerns “with less pain,” suggesting various approaches, including those that ultimately were part of the alternative plan offered by Council member Hicks.
Editor’s note: A previous Banner article regarding this matter, including reference to city staff comments, may be found here.
Willow Brook Golf Course will be hosting a Christmas party for their last Fish Fry of the year! A toy and food drive will be hosted with opportunity to win a variety of gift baskets.
Be sure to wear your Christmas Spirit!
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by the Whitewater Kiwanis Breakfast Club.
The Whitewater Kiwanis Breakfast Club thanks everyone in Whitewater for purchasing poinsettias this holiday to raise funds to help children.
Whitewater Kiwanis Breakfast Club Co-President Corey Davis said, “We were delighted to be able to sell florist-quality poinsettias again this year, with the funds helping children in our community and the world as well as brightening your holidays.”
Special thanks go to Kiwanian Albert Stanek for leading the sales and distribution, as well as the First United Methodist Church for hosting the plant delivery and staging area.
Whitewater Kiwanis is a group of dedicated volunteers who help both children of the Whitewater community and the world. Over the past several years the club raised funds to make possible the recent installation of the city’s first piece of inclusive playground equipment, a We-Go-Round, in Starin Park. Annual donations are also made to provide shoes and winter clothes for students, as well as support for organizations such as the Whitewater Food Pantry, Bethel House, The Community Space, and the Whitewater Youth Soccer Club.
If you have an interest in helping youth in Whitewater, you can check out Whitewater Kiwanis on Facebook and join our Club by contacting Corey Davis at davisc@uww.edu.
Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.
Obituaries
Sally A. Schutte, age 73, of Whitewater, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 21, 2026, while at Hearthstone Memory Care in Whitewater. Sally was born on November 6, 1952, to Roy and Elsie (Rohloff) Haas. Sally married William Schutte in the spring of 2003. Sally grew up on the family farm in the Town of Hebron and graduated from Jefferson High School. She dedicated nearly her entire career to Fort HealthCare, where her hard work and versatility shone through various roles. Over the years, she served in housekeeping and medical records, Center for Dermatology. Sally … Read more
Zachariah “Zach” Schoenke, 41, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. He was born April 4, 1985, to Keith W. Schoenke and Kathleen Schoenke in Fort Atkinson, WI. He grew up and graduated from Whitewater High School in 2003. Zach worked various jobs over the years but was currently working at Cracker Barrel in Janesville. He was a big Packers Fan and liked to play fantasy football. He enjoyed reading, cooking, and watching horror shows. Zach fiercely loved his son, Lincoln, his sisters, Cami and Cary, his mom and stepdad, and his aunt Robin. He will be dearly … Read more
Carla Winn, 82, died September 5, 2026. Funeral Service will be at 12:00 PM, Saturday, September 12, 2026, at East Heights United Methodist Church, 4407 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67218, followed by a burial at 2:00 PM at White Chapel Memorial Garden 1806 N Oliver Ave. Carla is preceded in death by her parents, Vivian Dwight and Wilma Lois Krehbiel; and sister, Jennifer Krehbiel. She is survived by husband, Stephen; daughter, Ashley (Clint) Gagel, of Overland Park; siblings, Paul (Kay) Krehbiel, of Socorro, NM, Lynn (Bill) Oetting, of Wichita, Ellen (John) Querner, of Wichita, Teresa Woodson, of Lawrence, KS, … Read more
Susan Miller Celebration of Life There will be a gathering of friends and acquaintances at Susan’s Farm Store to celebrate Susan’s life on Saturday, September 19th from 2-5 p.m. at N6623 Lake Lorraine Rd., Delavan, Wisconsin
Our loving mother, JoAnn E Harrop, age 95, passed away on September 11, 2026. Our sorrow is deep, but we are filled with gratitude for the many years we had with her. Even as her mind was failing, she remained strong and appreciative of all who cared for her. JoAnn was born on January 13, 1931, daughter to Fred Braun and Evelyn Braun {Storck). She was raised in Whitewater, Wisconsin by her grandparents, Otto and Edith Storck. She attended Whitewater High School and helped at the Storck tavern where she met her husband Earl C. Harrop. They married on November … Read more
Russell O. Johnson “Russ,” 88, passed away on September 4, 2026 in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Russell was born on July 12, 1938, in Janesville, Wisconsin. Russ grew up in Janesville, and after high school he joined the Air Force on May 1, 1958, serving as an aircraft mechanic until June 12, 1962. He then worked at Parker Pen in Janesville for a time, where he met his future wife, Avis. After marrying Avis Mason in April 1964, Russ worked for Gillman Manufacturing for a time, then began a career at Dana until its closing in 1980. In 1981, Russ started working … Read more
Marcia Zingg, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, at the age of 75. Marcia will be remembered for her unwavering love, remarkable strength, generous spirit, and lifelong devotion to her family. She shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Jeffrey Zingg, who considered her not only his wife but also his best friend, business partner, and the love of his life. Together, Marcia and Jeffrey built a successful life rooted in perseverance, hard work, laughter, and love. As entrepreneurs in Whitewater, Wisconsin, they owned and managed new car franchises and … Read more
Amanda Jean Hunter was born to Ralph and Malinda (Thomas) Hunter of Whitewater, Wisconsin, on October 6, 1976. She passed away on August 4, in Fort Worth, Texas, where she lived with her family. Amanda passed peacefully in the hospital, surrounded by her loved ones. Amanda was a kind-hearted free spirit with an unmistakable hippie warmth. Generosity, spontaneity, a quick wit, a macabre sense of humor, and an open heart were traits that she embraced. She was a tireless champion of those in need, an innate characteristic that became among the best of her qualities. She proved to be a … Read more
Ellen Eichmiller, 82, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Ellen was born on September 10, 1943, in Monroe, Wisconsin, to Chester “Guy” and Irene (née Holmen) Steig. She married the love of her life, Paul Eichmiller, on December 7, 1963, and together they made their home in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Ellen spent much of her working life as a secretary at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, where she formed many lasting friendships and memories. Ellen cherished her family and friends and treasured the time she spent with those closest to her. She was known for her love of … Read more
Janet Quinn, age 71, of Jefferson passed away on Thursday, August 20th. Janet was born on December 22nd, 1954 in St. Joseph, MI to Robert Mounsey and Edith Christison Mounsey. She was a granddaughter to Herbert Bragg Mounsey, Charlotte Mounsey, and Ester Christison West. She married Michael Durden in 1979 and later married Eury Quinn Jr. (J.R.) in 1988. Janet grew up in Benton Harbor, MI, and subsequently lived in New York and Arkansas before moving to Wisconsin in 2016. She was a dedicated caregiver to her disabled Mother, and worked as a custodian for various employers over the years. … Read more
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