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Walworth County Health and Human Services, along with State Farm® and Safe Kids Worldwide, invite families to a free Car Seat Check-Up Event on Wednesday, May 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. at The Community Space in Whitewater. Car seats may be available at no cost for families in need.
This appointment-only event is part of the Good Neighbor Car Seat Safety Program, an initiative aimed at ensuring that children are buckled up safely for every ride. Studies indicate that more than half of child car seats are misused or incorrectly installed, yet a correctly used and installed child safety seat can reduce the risk of injury by as much as 71 percent. To schedule an appointment for this event, visit https://bit.ly/May7seatcheck (click on “get tickets”) or call 262-741-3200. If you can’t make it, families can still have their car seats checked by calling Walworth County Health and Human Services at 262-741-3200 to arrange an appointment.
Seamless transfer opportunities for students pursuing fitness, recreation, and wellness careers
Madison College and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater have forged a new articulation agreement to enhance the success of students pursuing careers in the fitness, recreation, and wellness industry.
Madison College and UW-Whitewater leadership celebrated the agreement during an April 17 signing at the Madison College Truax Campus.
“As we navigate the evolving landscape of education, the future of health care and an increasing emphasis on physical health, it is essential that we support students aiming to make a lasting positive impact in the health and wellness sector,” said Madison College Provost Beth Giles. “This partnership embodies both institutions’ commitment to providing effective and efficient educational pathways in this vital field.”
This innovative agreement ensures a seamless transfer process between Madison College and UW-Whitewater, promoting a smooth transition for future professionals in the field.
“With the need for community health workers growing much faster than the average occupation, it’s no surprise that human performance is one of our most sought-after majors,” said UW-Whitewater Interim Provost Robin Fox. “Students who complete the program receive a well-rounded experience that prepares them to enter a variety of careers, including exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, community health, and spots and recreation.”
Students in the Associate of Applied Science in Fitness, Recreation, and Wellness Management at Madison College are guaranteed admission to UW-Whitewater’s Human Performance major and minors in Recreation and Leisure Studies, Strength and Conditioning, Sports Management, and Health Promotion, earning a minimum of 57 credits toward their degree.
To qualify, students must apply to UW-Whitewater, submit the required documents, and complete their applied associate degree in Fitness, Recreation & Wellness Management from Madison College with a GPA of 2.25 or higher.
The two institutions have a long-standing, successful history of transfer collaboration opportunities for students in early childhood education, human services, IT, paralegal studies, and liberal arts.
For more information, please visit the Madison College Transfer Partnership program page.
For more information about transferring to UW-Whitewater, visit https://www.uww.edu/admissions/transfer
Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by Madison College.
Irvin L. Young Memorial Library Board of Trustees – Monday @ 6:30 p.m.
Agenda
Cravath Lakefront Conference Room
312 W Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88373432757?pwd=R1vir9DUpF8JEItZd4zTzXiSm78ppl.1
Meeting ID: 883 7343 2757
Passcode: d3Fh5vwX
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
City of Whitewater Finance Committee – Tuesday @ 5:00 p.m.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible action to amend ordinance 2.62.020 Whitewater Transparency
Enhancement Ordinance Posting requirements, Discussion and possible action to amend the city’s TIF Policy and recommend for approval by Common Council, Discussion and possible action to recommend approval of Brown Cab contract for 2026, and Discussion on the City Attorney Contract.
Whitewater Municipal Building City Manager’s Conference Room, 312 West Whitewater St.,
*In Person and Virtual
Citizens are welcome (and encouraged) to join our webinar via computer, smart phone, or telephone.
Citizen participation is welcome during topic discussion periods.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83113931346
Telephone: +1 (312) 626-6799 US
Webinar ID: 831 1393 1346
“Wicked: Part 1”
Tuesday, April 22, 1 pm
(Fantasy/Musical) Rated PG; 2 hours, 40 minutes (2024).
Oscar Winner: best costume design and best production design; nominated for Best Film, Best Actress and Supporting Actress.
In the land of Oz, at Shiz University, Elphaba and Galinda encounter the Wizard of Oz, setting them up to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. (Part 2 of this film will be released in November).
Seniors in the Park is located in Starin Park, 504 W. Starin Road. Although there is no charge to attend, regular participants are encouraged to join Seniors in the Park. The annual fee for residents of the Whitewater Unified School District is $10 and non-residents is $15. The funds support about half of the cost of our front desk staff person for 15 hours per week. The rest comes our of our fundraising monies. If you cannot afford the fee, we have a fund that will cover it for you. Fees are accepted at the Starin Park Community Building or online at https://schedulesplus.com/wwtr/kiosk/

By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com
The above emergency alert was received on cell phones in the Whitewater area at approximately 7:10 a.m. on Friday, April 18. Some car owners without a garage wondered where they could hurriedly drive to seek shelter for their vehicle. Three residents hung out in the self-service car wash on the west side; others likely decided that the canopy over the gas pumps at a convenience store was a good idea. It appears that much of the city didn’t get any hail, but Prairie Village on the north side did, per the report and photos below courtesy of Tom Ganser. The worst of the storm apparently veered north of the city.
Tom Ganser writes, “About five minutes of hail about 7:30 a.m. Friday, April 18. Largest pieces about the size of a quarter. Melted away quickly. Welcome to spring ?????”





It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
Like this early 20th century post card expresses, we wish you all a “Happy Easter.”
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(postcard collection, Whitewater Historical Society)

Southern Lakes Memory Project, a new nonprofit organization, is excited to announce its official
launch. The organization is committed to supporting individuals living with dementia and their
caregivers by providing social respite, education, and training in the Southern Lakes area.
In response to the increasing need for better dementia care, Southern Lakes Memory Project has
developed its flagship program, Memory Matters. This initiative offers social respite programming,
allowing caregivers to take a break while their loved ones participate in cognitively stimulating
activities led by professional staff and volunteers. Additionally, the organization is focused on filling
the gap in dementia education by offering specialized training for caregivers, residential facilities, and
home care agencies. These educational programs will empower caregivers and healthcare providers
to deliver high-quality care to those affected by dementia.
“Our goal is to support families and caregivers who face the daily challenges of dementia care,” said
Jake Sawyers, Founder and President of the Board of Directors for Southern Lakes Memory Project.
“By providing social respite programs and quality education, we can create a community that offers
both support and hope to those living with dementia and those who care for them.”
Southern Lakes Memory Project plans to collaborate with local healthcare providers, organizations,
and community leaders to expand its reach and ensure that individuals and families have access to
the services they need. The organization is also inviting volunteers to join its efforts and help make a
difference in the lives of those affected by dementia.
To learn more about the Southern Lakes Memory Project, get involved, or donate, please visit
slmemoryproject.com or contact southernlakesmemoryproject@gmail.com.
About Southern Lakes Memory Project
Southern Lakes Memory Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing support to individuals
living with dementia and their caregivers. Our goal is to help individuals with dementia and their
caregivers feel supported, engaged and valued. Join us in our mission to make a difference in the
lives of those affected by dementia.
Obituaries
Bruce E. LaBansky, 75, Whitewater died on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at Alden Estates in Jefferson, WI. Bruce was born on November 28, 1949 in Sauk County, WI to Clarence and Velma (Nelson) LaBansky. He graduated from Mount Horeb High School and received his bachelor’s degree from UW Stevens Point. Faith, family and friends were very important to him. Bruce moved to Whitewater in 1980 where he raised his 3 sons Nelsen, Nathanial, and Nicholas. Bruce was an avid golfer, an outdoorsman with an impressive knowledge of all things nature, a sports fan (particularly the Bucks, Brewers and Packers). Family … Read more
Read MoreDr. Holly J. Humphrey November 28, 1956 – April 17, 2025 Holly J. Humphrey, MD, MACP, led the Pritzker School of Medicine through a period of transformative growth that saw the school rise to a place among the nation’s elite institutions of medical education, emerge as a powerhouse of scholarship and discovery, and become a pioneer in efforts to diversify the field of medicine. One of the nation’s most prominent and innovative leaders in medical education, her voice and influence made an immeasurable impact on the field and countless mentees throughout her career. Dr. Humphrey, who served for 15 years as Pritzker’s … Read more
Read MoreJohn Rivers, 61, of Whitewater, WI, passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at his home after a short battle with cancer, with his wife by his side. Born on March 10, 1964, in Milwaukee, WI, to Bernie and MaryAnne (Sommers) Rivers Jr., John lived a life defined by perseverance and purpose. A 1982 graduate of East Troy High School, John spent more than 30 years as a dedicated truck driver. One of his proudest accomplishments came later in life when, at the age of 50, he returned to school and earned his bachelor’s degree while continuing to work full … Read more
Read MoreJohn J Liss, 54, of Whitewater passed away Wednesday, April 9th, 2025, at home surrounded by his family and special pets at his feet. John graduated from Whitewater High School. John married his best friend of 18 years on August 17, 2024. He worked factory jobs and decided to go back to school for HVAC in 2009. In 2010 John became disabled due to his health. John is survived by his wife Lacey Liss, daughter Mackenzie Liss, son Gabe (Hunter) Black, stepson William (Erika) Beaudin, bonus daughter Cassie, mother Judy Liss, brothers Joseph 3rd, Jesse, and Jason Liss, sister-in-law Cora … Read more
Read MoreRobert Andrae Mischka October 31, 1934 – April 13, 2025 Robert of Whitewater died at home April 13, 2025. He was born in Milwaukee on October 31, 1934 to Zaner and Helen (Burrill) Mischka. He attended Burlington High School and graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison in 1956 with a BBA degree in accounting. Robert married his high school sweetheart, Mary Margaret Wanasek of Burlington in 1954. Together they had 7 sons, two of which died as infants. After college they moved to Pittsburgh, Pa. where Robert spent 7 years working as an accountant for the U S … Read more
Read MoreAmy L Hookstead age 40 of Genoa City, WI died April 20, 2025. She was born in Burlington, WI on September 6, 1984, the daughter of Raymond Ghislain and Tina Kjellander. On May 24, 2015, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Slades Corners, WI she was united in marriage to Michael Hookstead. She worked for Randall Township as the Treasurer. Amy’s motto in life was family first and her life revolved around her kids and family and she would do anything to make them happy. She was an avid Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers fan. In her younger years she … Read more
Read MoreWaverly Ann Miles passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025 at the age of 90. She was born in Whitewater, WI on June 17, 1934, to Kenneth and Edna (Krahn) Sutherland and graduated in 1951 from Whitewater College High School. She married Raymond Miles on June 18, 1955, in Whitewater, WI. Waverly worked for the First Citizens State Bank from the time she was in High School until her retirement. She enjoyed watching the Packers, Badgers, reading and most of all spending time with her family. She is survived by sons Eddie of Madison, WI and Todd (Barbara) Miles … Read more
Read MoreThomas L. Marsh, 78, of Genesee Depot, WI passed away on Monday, April 14, 2025 at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. Tom was born on July 5, 1946 in Waukesha the son of Lucian and Helen (Kramer) Marsh. He grew up in the Palmyra area and graduated from Palmyra High School with the class of 1964. After high school, Tom continued his schooling at the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. On October 12, 1968, Tom was united in marriage to Nancy Parsons at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Palmyra and the two would go on to enjoy over 56 years of marriage … Read more
Read MoreRobert Andrae Mischka October 31, 1934 – April 13, 2025 Whitewater WI – Robert of Whitewater died at home April 13, 2025. He was born in Milwaukee on October 31, 1934 to Zaner and Helen (Burrill) Mischka. He attended Burlington High School and graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison in 1956 with a BBA degree in accounting. Robert married his high school sweetheart, Mary Margaret Wanasek of Burlington in 1954. Together they had 7 sons, two of which died as infants. After college they moved to Pittsburgh, Pa. where Robert spent 7 years working as an accountant for the … Read more
Read MoreRoger Arthur Luebke, 74, of Whitewater, passed away on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at his home. Roger was born on October 30, 1950, in Fort Atkinson to Bud and Helen (Erickson) Luebke. He graduated from Whitewater High School in 1969, and worked at Schopens, Moore’s Seafood, and Husco. He enjoyed working in the shop, racing, drinking Miller High Life with his friends, and crossword puzzles. Roger is survived by his two children, Shelli Barrett and Buddy (Brandi) Luebke; sisters, Sandy (Bill) Lentz, Kathy (Paul) McCann, and Patty Luebke; and his grandchildren, Levi, Aaron, Justin, Megan, Brandon, Cody, and Lindsey. He … Read more
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