Mike Chaloupka

Traffic Light at Intersection where Mike was hit.

2011-10-05T20:31:00.000-05:00

Construction protects students from harm
BY ZACH HICKS – OCTOBER 5, 2011
POSTED IN: OPINION, TOP OPINION
The intersection of Main and Whiton Streets is finally getting a stoplight. The construction started last week and the pedestrian yield sign that previously hung over Main Street will be replaced.

Anyone who used the crosswalk knows how dangerous crossing the street was. For whatever reason, cars didn’t adhere to the crosswalk and ignored pedestrians even though many pedestrians pushed the button that activated the yield sign’s flashing yellow lights.

Three years ago, former UW-Whitewater student Michael Chaloupka was killed after being struck by a car in the crosswalk; the city has been trying to get funding for the construction ever since. Last March, another student was hit by a car while trying to cross the same intersection.

It is puzzling why drivers continue to cruise past the crosswalk with minimal concern for those on foot. A student had pressed the button, which activated the blinking yield sign.

After waiting several seconds and still not having any cars slow down, the student stepped into the road tentatively. As the student crossed the first lane, the traffic in lanes two, three and four continued to cruise along without slowing down. This pattern continued as the dangerous journey across the road was completed.

This dangerous game is eerily similar to Frogger, except the consequences of losing are more sinister. College campuses are teaming with students on foot, and drivers should be taking caution with that in mind.

While some drivers may argue that pedestrians dart out from a crosswalk sometimes, being aware of the crosswalk is the driver’s responsibility. Once the construction is complete, which is expected to be sometime in early November, pedestrians will be safer.

This time the government saved the day. While we often criticize the government for things like taxes, politicians not keeping promises or failing to fix the economy, we must remind that they help us out, too.

On average, a pedestrian is injured in a traffic accident every eight minutes according to the National Highway Traffic Association. With this statistic in mind, use caution when crossing the street. If a student gets hit by a car, it does not mean they will get free tuition. If you are driving, make sure you are looking for pedestrians, especially when driving near a college campus such as UW-Whitewater.

Pedestrians must take caution while crossing the street and drivers must watch out for their fellow classmates while driving around the city. After all, pedestrians are vulnerable.

There’s a reason they look both ways.

2nd MJC Memorial Craft Fair

2011-09-20T20:56:00.002-05:00

MJC Memorial Craft Fair
1240 Grand Avenue, Waukesha
September 23 & 24, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Craft Show featuring handcrafted arts & crafts, and unique gifts. Something for everyone on your shopping list. Door prizes drawn every hour, food concessions, silent auction, bake sale and free admission.

All proceeds benefit Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. You can support our cause by shopping the event. Some silent auction items are available for bidding through our facebook page, "MJC Memorial Craft Fair".

MJC Memorial Craft Fair

2011-08-28T19:20:00.002-05:00

10 a.m.- 4 p.m., in Waukesha

2nd MJC Memorial Craft Fair

2011-08-15T18:42:00.002-05:00

It is a little more than a month away, and the time is just flying by. Here is a list of the dontaions, I have as of today. I am still hoping for a few more to come in, besides what the crafters will be donating. We can always use more donations, if you would like to donate something just let me know. Within the next couple of weeks the yard signs will go up. I am hoping to raise some funds for Intervarsity Christian Fellowship, and keep Mike's dream alive. We would love to have you come and support the event. September 23 & 24 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at First Assembly Of God North Campus, 1240 Grand Aveunue in Waukesha.
2 tickets Milwaukee Bucks
Betty Brinn Family Pass
2 tickets Skylight Opera Theatre
4 tickets Circus World Museum
2 tickets Waukesha Civic Theatre
Sprecher Soda
2 tickets Oconomowoc Arts Center
One year family membership
2 Milwaukee Wave Tickets

2nd Annual MJC Memorial Craft Fair

2011-06-30T21:35:00.003-05:00

It has been a really crazy year, but we are now working on planning the 2nd Annual Fundraiser. We are now accepting applications for crafters and artists, and working on securing donations for the silent auction. We sent out 50 letters for donations and they are starting to come in. If you would like to donation anything, please let me know.

Traffic Light Delay-Intersection Where Mike Was Hit

2011-03-08T16:24:00.003-06:00

Whiton, Main Street traffic light project delayed until fall
By Kelsey Welke– March 8, 2011
Posted in: News
The traffic light project that has been planned for years at the intersection of Whiton and Main Streets has been delayed due to monetary reasons.

Public Works Director Dean Fischer said the project was originally going to be a city-funded project until the Highway Safety Approval Grant was found. Fischer then applied for and received the grant.

A car passes over the crosswalk at the intersection of Whiton and Main Streets. The project to install a traffic light at the intersection was delayed until next fall. Photo by Kelsey Welke.

Because the project is now funded by federal money, the project was postponed until September. It was originally planned to start after school let out in May.

The project is estimated at $171,750, of which 80 percent will be paid for by the grant and the rest by the city.

Several pedestrians have been hit on Main Street, including graduate student Mike Chaloupka in 2008 and most recently senior Chris O’Neil.

Chaloupka was struck by a car in his wheelchair while crossing at the intersection. He died later due to accident-related injuries.

O’Neil was hit March 1 while crossing at the same intersection.

“I saw that the car in the far lane was going to hit me so I jumped up and away from the car and then came down on the front of the hood,” O’Neil said. “The driver of the car got out and seemed genuinely sorry … for not stopping fast enough. But since I wasn’t hurt, I told him not to worry about it.”

Fischer said the issue at that intersection is getting pedestrians to cross safely.

“The advantage of putting in stop-and-go lights over the existing lights is that it will be a controlled intersection for everybody – pedestrians and vehicle traffic,” Fischer said.

The new light will also have “The Navigator” technology installed. “The Navigator” emits a short, recorded message along with beeping sounds to allow visually-impaired persons to know when it is safe to cross the street.

“The Navigator” was recently installed at the intersections of Prince and Main Streets, and Prairie and Main Streets.

The disadvantage of installing the lights at the intersection of Whiton and Main streets is that the lights will take away from the historical look of the gateway in front of the Alumni Center and Hyer Hall, Fischer said.

The poles that hold the traffic lights will be a dark color, similar to other traffic lights in the city. These will not be as obvious as the aluminum poles that hold the current safety lights at the intersection. Therefore, some of the historical look of the gateway will be preserved, Fischer said.
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Gingerbread Contest For Intervarsity

2011-01-10T20:57:00.004-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year. We participated in a non profit fundraiser, for the organization of our choice. We made this gingerbread house with all the proceeds from donations going to Intervaristy. Customers voted on the houses, by donating money. Our house took in the most money, $37.13. We took third prize on the house. We had never made one before, so it was a learining process, it was fun but alot of work. Well it looks like we will do it again next year, but hoping to raise a little more funds next year.

Intervarsity Thank You

2010-12-14T18:14:00.006-06:00

Today we received a thank you letter from Intervarsity for our donation to Intervarsity. It was really nice receiving the letter. The donation was for $1600.00, let hope we can do the same next year.

1st Fundraiser

2010-11-25T14:12:00.003-06:00

The fundraiser was a success, thanks for all our family and friends who helped staff the event, donated items for the silent auction, or purchased items from the show. Thank for everyones help. We were able to donate $1600.00 to Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. We are planning on making this an annual event, next years date is September 23rd & 24th. To see some of the photos of the event go our facebook page, MJC Memorial Craft Fair.

MJC Memorial Craft Fair

2010-10-11T21:54:00.002-05:00

It is hard to believe, the craft fair fundraiser is almost here. It will be here soon,3 weeks to go. I hope to see some of Mikes friends and family. We will have some cool silent auction items to bid on, like a signed Packer football and many more items. We hope to make this an annual event, we are hoping all goes well, and would love everyones support. Come and get of your holiday shopping done, and the proceeds will support a great organization, that Mike loved.

On October 28th & 29th 11 a.m.-6 p.m.,30th 10 a.m.-4 p.m.,
at the First Assembly of God Church campus at 1240 Grand Avenue here in Waukesha. All proceeds will go to support the non-profit ministry of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship – an inter-denominational ministry that serves tens of thousands of students from many different backgrounds on about 650 college campuses in the United States. All proceeds from this event will go to the work at UW-Whitewater (Mike’s school) and help students there attend campus and conferences – which were so very beneficial to Mike.

MJC Memorial Craft Fair

2010-09-08T07:45:00.004-05:00

MJC Memorial Craft Fair October 28-29 11-6, 30th 10-4
First Assembly Of God North Campus
1240 Grand Avenue, Waukesha, WI

We will be having our first fundraiser for Mike with the funds going to Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. We would love your support so we could make this an annual event. We need volunteers to make this event a success. We also need donations for raffles, bake sale items and shoppers. Tell all your friends. If you would like to help is any way please let us know. We need a total of 16 volunteers for Thursday, 8 volunteers for Friday, and 16 volunteers for Saturday.

Update On Whitewater Traffic Light

2010-09-08T07:42:00.000-05:00

This is the intersection where Mike was hit.
Royal Purple NewsPaper

Traffic signal design approved
By Michael Poe

Published: Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Updated: Wednesday, March 31, 2010 05:03

UW-Whitewater students will soon be able to cross Main Street in a safer manner with the aid of a new device called the Navigator.

The Whitewater Common Council unanimously approved the design of new crosswalk signal March 16. The city has not set a date for installation for the Whiton and Main Street intersection.

The council had to choose between two actuators which were demonstrated at a public meeting Feb. 23.

The Navigator emits a constant beeping tone that allows visually impaired pedestrians to find the device. The device is activated by a sensitive push button.

“We have definitely done a lot of research and (the Navigator) is at the top of the market,” Director of Public Works Dean Fischer said.

The cost of the unit is $270 each with a total of eight being installed at each intersection. The Navigator device requires a controller at each traffic signal panel to operate, with an installation cost of $2,400.

UW-Whitewater informed the city that it will pay for similar equipment for both the Prairie andMain streets and and Prince and Main streets intersections.

The Navigator will tell the pedestrian it is time to cross with a voice system. When the crosswalk time is starting to count down, the Navigator will also countdown the amount of time left to cross the street. The city will eventually implement the Navigator at existing pedestrian signals throughout the city.

The other actuator, the Latching Bulldog, also has a sensitive push button, but would beep once rather than continuously and light up instead of a voice command. The cost of each device is $120.

City Manager Kevin Brunner said the university is very supportive of the higher-level system.

“I do like the idea of trying this system out for a few months and then retrofitting other intersections at a time in the future,” Brunner said. “[Chancellor Richard Telfer] is in favor of the Navigator because of the large number of disabled students that we have on campus and throughout the community.”

The University’s Center for Students with Disabilities was allowed to test the devices out. The Navigator was the overwhelming choice by the students.

The new pedestrian signals will be part of the federal project to add traffic lights and improve the intersection at a cost of $138,000. State and federal government will cover 90 percent of the project cost.

Debate regarding Main Street safety originated from an accident in late 2008 involving UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupkae.

Chaloupka, 23, was struck by a vehicle, while attempting to cross main Street. Chaloupka later died of injuries sustained from the accident.

In fall of 2009 a Fort Atkinson resident and sophomore Stephen Johnson also were struck while crossing Main street intersections.

The Whitewater Common Council voted in late 2008, as a result of Chaloupka’s death, to install traffic lights at the Main and Whiton streets intersection in summer 2010.

The trombone-arm pedestrian yield signs were installed at the two Main Street intersections in May 2008.

The Department of Transportation sent the city an agreement for the project covering 90 percent of traffic light installation. The agreement covers the costs of the project including engineering, equipment and installation costs.

The remaining 10 percent of the project will be funded by the city. Brunner said the intersection safety revamp will cost $12,000 to $15,000. The project carries an estimated total cost of $138, 400.

A Gift

2010-07-08T22:07:00.002-05:00

We got a surprise today in the mail. Another donation by one of Mike's friends, Heather Stoskopf. A gift in Memory of Mike Chaloupka has been made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. It was quite a surprise, it was very thoughtful of her to make the donation. Mike had a form of Muscular Dystrophy. Thanks Heather for the generous donation.

Intervarsity Scholarships Awarded

2010-06-19T18:03:00.003-05:00

Scholarships will be given out to Whitewater Students to attend Intervarsity conferences. $1000.00 in scholarships will be given away by the end of summer. Mike absolutely loved going to these conferences. All money raised from The MJC Memorial Craft Fair will go towards scholarships, or handicapped accessible accommodations for conferences. Which will be in October, if you would like to help out or volunteer, please let us know.

A Special Gift

2010-06-19T17:41:00.005-05:00

We attended one of Mike's Best Friends Wedding, and there was a table at the wedding for Mike, A tribute to Mike. Check out the vase, it is now on the bookshelf at our home with other things of Mike.
The verse on the vase reads,
In loving memory
these flowers bloom
as a symbol of
a life and love
remembered.

It was a very emotional day, many tears of happiness were shed.
Thanks Matt & Lindsay Strzyzewski

New Features in Mikes Garden

2010-05-02T22:38:00.006-05:00

A week or so ago we did some decorating around the Angel Bush we got from Debbie at Mike's Funeral. Last summer we added a couple of re-blooming roses on the sides. For Christmas Judy gave us a beautiful metal sculpture made of silver silverware. Julie added to that some glass pieces on the petals and is now the center item in the metal sculpture. The 3 items around the center one are metal sculpture we bought at a craft show this spring. Those are also recycled made by a couple of young fellows around Mike's age out of cars, wash machines, and left over car paint. The metal sculpture will continue to bloom all year around. The Mosaic Tile on the left all four of us in the family made one evening together, we all had a part in that. The one on the right Mom and Jenny did.

I have had a lot of people ask me what the heck is it with you and gardening all of a sudden. Those upside down planters. All those flowers. The random dragon trees and rescue plants that I keep trying to rescue from the dumpster when people toss them out. Maybe looking at Mike's Garden will tell part of the story. That's all I'll say. Dad.

The Mike Chaloupka Leadership Award Scholarship

2010-04-26T08:51:00.001-05:00

Well, we went to the DAAC Awards Banquet last Wednesday. The Mike Chaloupka Leadership Award Scholarship was presented to a deserving young fellow, Mitch Pashen. Jenny and I (Dad) went in front, Jenny spoke about Mike and about the award. The photographer thought that Jenny(Sister) was the Mom, and Mom was the Sister (Actually Mom was afraid to go up and present). The food was good and the event was inspiring. The dance part, not so much....

Chit-chat later, Dr. Telfer was telling us about all the changes concerning the intersection where the fateful event happened. The University is going to have to pay to move the stone gate entry pillars on the campus adjacent to the intersection in order to make room for the traffic signals. This is delaying the signal installation a bit because of changes to planning and the red tape involved. It seem as though Mike is still shaking things up on campus and in the Whitewater community almost 2 years after his passing.

The University is also putting a crosswalk control system in a different part of the campus where they had near misses, and are lobbying the State/City to improve safety on a few others.

That is all from me for now. Thanks for your interest.

Mike Chaloupka Leadership Award-Photo's

2010-04-24T17:32:00.005-05:00

Did you find the typo, yes Jenny thought it was pretty funny. The three n's in her name. She was laughing so hard, especially since her friend made the power point. It was a fun evening with lots of laughing.

Update On Stop Light

2010-03-03T21:25:00.001-06:00

City holds traffic signal demonstration

City of Whitewater officials held a demonstration and open-house forum last week presenting information on the Main and Whiton streets traffic signal project.
The meeting showcased the new traffic signal control with vehicle and pedestrian indicators and push button activators with voice component.
Project Manager Luke Holman said designing of the project will continue through May 1 with contract bidding taking place in July.
“The actual construction will not happen until the fall,” he said. “Typical traffic signal jobs from a construction start usually take about two months.”
Safety enhancements are being implemented after UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka died in September 2008 from injuries sustained after he was struck by a car while crossing Main Street in his wheelchair.
Director of Public Works Dean Fischer said the process will take a bit longer since it is a state and federal project.
“If this was a city level project, we would have it on the council floor tomorrow night,” he said. “Because we are getting federal money, we have to follow their rules and their rules are very slow.”
Holman said construction will not result in any road closings, but some activities are best done when an outside lane can be closed.
As soon as construction begins the yellow pedestrian lights at Whiton Street will be removed by the city. Some trees along the street will be removed, as well as moving the pedestrian barriers at the entrance to the Alumni Center back several feet.
“We are also going to be closing some sidewalks,” Holman said. “We’re going to have to ask students to find another way to get [to campus], maybe take the long way.”
Traffic signals are serviced once the pedestrian button is pushed, followed by a walk-time interval, then a pedestrian clearance countdown.
“The good thing is these lights are no different than what Prince and Prairie Streets are today,” Holman said.
The traffic signal for vehicles crossing Main Street off of Whiton Street will not turn green unless a vehicle is present or a pedestrian pushes the walk button.
“The street is really going to become a very distinct four-way versus what it looks like now which is more of a three-way intersection with a driveway,” Fischer said.
The project is estimated to cost $138,000. Ninety percent of the project will be paid for by state and federal government. The city of Whitewater will cover the remaining 10 percent and any additional costs.

Fundraiser Planned

2010-03-03T21:17:00.003-06:00

Here is the application and info on the Fundraiser planned. If you are interested in helping out in any way let us know, by volunteering, or donating an item for the silent auction, or bake sale. The fundraiser is in the form of a craft sale, we plan on having as an annual event. Here is the application, if you are a crafter and would like to participate.
http://www.creativetouchcrafts.net/craftfair.html

Update On Street Lights Where Mike Was Hit

2009-11-27T19:31:00.002-06:00

City, students work to install Main Street light quicker
by: Tyler Lamb

City of Whitewater landlord David Kachel has offered to pay for safety improvements on Main Street as the city waits for Gov. Jim Doyle to sign off on the installation of traffic lights on Whiton and Main Streets.

The installation of traffic lights is part of efforts made by the Whitewater Common Council in late 2008 to improve Main Street safety after UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka, 23, was struck by a car Aug. 26, 2008 while crossing the Whiton and Main Streets intersection.

Chauloupka died about two weeks later from injuries sustained in the accident.

Earlier this month Kachel made an offer to the council to pay for the entire cost and installation of a permanent variable electronic speed sign, to be placed on Main Street. The cost of the sign is estimated at $5,000 to $7,000.

"I wanted to give one and the city was also giving one … safety for students was part of it," Kachel said. "[city of Whitewater Police Chief James Coan] said if we could move them, in other words if we could take them down and put them somewhere else, he would do it because what he says is after it is out there for a month you would never look at it again."

During the Nov. 11 common council meeting, Coan said motorists would become too familiar with the electronic speed signs, lessening their impact after a few months.

"If you have something out there permanently drivers tend to become complacent," Coan said. "It doesn't have the same impact as if you put something out there periodically."

The need for safety improvements on Main Street was solidified last month when Fort Atkinson resident Laura Rogers, 28, was struck by a car Oct. 14 while crossing at the Main and Cottage streets intersection. Rogers was transported to Fort Atkinson Hospital for contusions to her face and knee.

City and university members are now collaboratively attempting to spur earlier installation of traffic lights on Main Street. The lights are currently scheduled for installation in early 2010 Peace, Education, and Activism through Creative Engagement co-president Patrick Broderick said PEACE has been attempting to put pressure on the governor's office with assistance from the Whitewater Common Council.

"Council member Max Taylor helped us out by getting us the number of the project and common council President Patrick Singer gave us details about the project at a PEACE meeting," Broderick said. "In addition, the Public Works Director Dean Fischer is going to be soliciting student opinions about more accessible design. I was impressed with how our concerns have been received."

Whitewater Common Council voted in late 2008, as a result of Chaloupka's death, to install traffic lights at the Main and Whiton Streets intersection in spring 2010. The trombone-arm pedestrian yield signs were installed at the two Main Street intersections in May 2008.

"If all this requires is the governor picking up a pen and signing a piece of paper we should be able to get this done much sooner," District 2 councilman Max Taylor said. "So several groups, myself included, will be making several calls to the governor over the next few weeks trying to get him to expedite that process."

The Department of Transportation sent the city an agreement in early 2009 for the installation of traffic lights on Main and Whiton streets, covering 90 percent of the costs including engineering, equipment and installation. The remaining 10 percent of the project will be funded by the city.

The project to install traffic lights met the requirements to be funded as a safety improvement project. Safety improvement projects are perceived high-risk rural roads.

Doyle is not projected to sign off on the project until May 2010. Fischer said if the project to install traffic lights on Main Street would have been strictly a city project, the lights could have been installed already, costing the city $125,000.

City Manager Kevin Brunner said the council also is looking at increasing the wattage of street lights on Main Street from 150 watts to 250 watts, to increase pedestrian safety. Increasing wattage will cost the city more than $10, 000, with additional operating costs amounting to $1,000 a year.

Issues In Whitewater

2009-11-04T06:55:00.003-06:00

Council fails to improve Main Street Safety
Tyler Lamb
Issue date: 11/4/09 Section: News
Whitewater Common Council took to no additional action regarding Main Street safety Tuesday, despite concerns voiced from campus and community members.

"I think there is a real concern about crossing at Main Street, particularly between classes." Councilwomen-At-Large Marilyn Kienbaum said.

One resolution suggested to the council was to increase the wattage of streetlights from Prairie to Prince streets.

"That whole area just isn't right. It's dark in a lot of spots and there are a lot of times I came along at 10:30 p.m. and just about hit somebody because all of a sudden they are in the middle of the road," District 1 councilmen Jim Olsen said.

City manager Kevin Brunner said increased lighting from 150 watts to 250 watts would cost the city more than $10,000, with additional operating costs coming to $1,000 more per year for the additional wattage.

"In addition, I think a lot of council members and a citizen mentioned variable speed boards that flash what speed your traveling at," Brunner said. "Those costs are estimated, to install, $5 to 7,000 each. One property owner to the south, David Kachel, contacted me and he informed me he would be willing to pay the entire cost of the board."

The council and Whitewater police weren't in favor of the electronic speed signs.

"I'm not convinced with the electronic speed signs," District 4 councilmen Lynn Binnie said. "I appreciate the generous offer … my concerns include one we get the stop light in there that's going to naturally resolve and slow the traffic."

City of Whitewater Police Chief James Coan said motorists would become too familiar with electronic signs, lessening their impact after a few months.

"If you have something out there permanently drivers tend to become complacent, it doesn't have the same impact as if you put something out there periodically," Coan said. "We think things have improved greatly."

Brunner said the city is attempting to expedite the process of installing traffic lights on Main Street.

"We were able to get state funding but we also have to go through sorts of hoops that we normally wouldn't have to because this state project."

The project is still scheduled to be completed installed early 2010 due to the bidding and development processes. Brunner said if the city would have done this on their own it done much quicker but the city would have had to pay more than $125, 000.

"If it would have been strictly a city project … we could have had them installed already but at $125,000 savings to the city we are talking about a one year period," Public Works Director Dean Fischer said.

Main Street concerns originated when UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka and Fort Atkinson resident Laura Rogers, 28, were struck while crossing at Whiton and Mainstreets.

Whitewater Common Council voted in late 2008, as a result of Chaloupka's death, to install traffic lights at the Main and Whiton streets intersection in spring 2010.

The trombone-arm pedestrian yield signs were installed at the two Main Street intersections in May 2008.

The Department of Transportation sent the city an agreement for the project covering 90 percent of the costs including engineering, equipment and installation costs. The remaining 10 percent of the project will be funded by the city. City Manager Kevin Brunner said the intersection safety revamp will cost $12,000 to $15,000. The project carries an estimated total cost of $138, 400.

Article about Accidents In Whitewater

2009-10-21T07:23:00.001-05:00

Recent accident a painful reminder
Crosswalk safety can only improve through concerted effort by all
Royal Purple staff
Issue date: 10/21/09 Section: Opinion

Media Credit: Seth Anderson

A Whitewater Common Council nightmare has been realized: another pedestrian was struck by a car while crossing at Cottage and Main Street, one of the intersections between Prairie Street and Prince Street uncontrolled by a traffic signal.

Fortunately for 28-year-old Laura Rogers of Fort Atkinson, the injuries she sustained following the collision and subsequent 10-foot journey through the air on Oct. 14 did not take her life; the contusions on her knee and face will heal.

Mike Chaloupka, who was hit while crossing the intersection at Whiton and Main Street in his wheelchair on Aug. 26, 2008, did not survive.

Chaloupka's death sounded the alarm bell that caught the attention of city and campus officials.

It became clear the "trombone arms," which are essentially flashing pedestrian crossing signs on a boom at these intersections, were not enough.

They were probably right. Even when activated, the flashing lights on the trombone arms are merely an advisery that pedestrians might be present-the lighted signs by themselves don't compel drivers to stop.

Meeting after meeting, month after month, an indecisive, sometimes combative Common Council argued over solutions ranging from a giant walking bridge to a proposed jaywalking ordinance before finally settling on the installation of a $125,000 traffic light at the intersection of Whiton Street and Main Street.

This was an obvious step in the right direction. A traffic light leaves no doubt to who has the right of way.

It also slows traffic flow down. This is good, considering excessive speed is the number one reason why pedestrian-vehicle accidents occur according to Whitewater Police Department Chief James Coan.

Unfortunately, all this wrangling to keep students safe diverts attention from another element that really needs to change: driving habits.

It's simple. There are two people in this type of accident, the driver and the pedestrian. Both are trying to get somewhere using the same space.

However, the driver is the one in control of a potentially lethal weapon. Furthermore, to walk in a public place is a very basic human right, whereas operating a car is a privilege and responsibility.

In light of this, there are very few instances where a driver isn't at fault for striking a pedestrian.

Even in a downtown Whitewater full of drunken bar-goers, the burdgen rests heavily on drivers to observe what's going on along the side of the road and slow down in the presence of pedestrians.

To be sure, the installation of a traffic light will make it much safer for students to cross, so driving habits aren't the only thing that needed changing. It also doesn't mean those on foot shouldn't look both ways before crossing the street-ultimately it's everyone's responsibility to keep the community safe.

It also means there are other actions officials can take to improve the situation while we wait for the traffic light.

This includes, if necessary, increased police presence. In the immediate wake of Chaloupka's death, city and campus police made themselves visible as a reminder to pay attention and assist in safe crossings. This should continue.

It should also include a crackdown on speed limit compliance, a.k.a. more speeding tickets. While many like to complain about speed traps, the fact of the matter is speeding is illegal for a reason. This is especially true in a city full of pedestrians, where there is absolutely no reason to be driving fast.

So take it easy, pay attention and walkers-look up from your iPod every once and awhile. By playing by the rules and using common sense everyone can do their part to make Whitewater a safer place.

Another Accident

2009-10-15T18:57:00.001-05:00

Fort Atkinson resident injured while crossing Main Street

A Fort Atkinson woman sustained minor injuries Wednesday after being hit by a car at the Cottage and Main streets intersection.Laura Rogers, 28, was crossing Main Street at a pedestrian walkway about 9:45 p.m. when she was struck by car turning west from Cottage onto Main Street, according to a witness. She reportedly flew about 10 feet in the air. Rogers was transported to Fort Atkinson Hospital for contusions on her knee and face.Junior Katka Showers-Curtis said she was crossing the street with Rogers at the time of the accident. They had pushed the pedestrian light before crossing."It was terrifying," she said. "I had no idea what was happening. I looked at the car and thought it was going to stop and then I realized it didn't. I never expected that to happen."Showers-Curtis said an off-duty police officer was driving toward downtown from Main Street when the accident occurred and stopped to aid Rogers."He got us to the side of the road," she said. "He called the police. He called the ambulance. Everything happened really fast."Rogers is active on campus and is a member of PEACE.UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka was struck by a car Aug. 26, 2008 while crossing at Whiton and Main streets, about a block from Cottage Street.Chaloupka, who was in a wheelchair, suffered from 12 broken bones and collapsed lungs. He died about a week later as a result of the injuries. Whitewater Common Council voted in late 2008, as a result of Chaloupka's death, to install traffic lights at the Main and Whiton streets intersection in spring 2010.

I am sure glad she will be ok.

Stepping Stone For Mike's Garden

2009-10-08T14:30:00.003-05:00

We made these for Mike's Garden, everyone designed a petal of the flower, it was fun. Created by Mike's Sister, Brother, and Parents.

Fundraiser For Intervarsity

2009-10-04T15:04:00.003-05:00

We finally have a fundraiser planned for next year. It will be October 28-30, 2010, we have decided to do it in a form of a craft fair, with raffles, silent auction items and much more. First Assembly Of God Church-North Campus donated the space to use. We are very excited to start the planning, if you want to help volunteer some time in helping to set up the space or donations, please let us know. More info will be posted as it becomes available. It will be called MJC Memorial Craft Fair.

One Year Since Mike's Accident

2009-08-25T22:14:00.003-05:00

To all of Mike's and Family, I can't believe a year has passed since the terrible accident that took Mike from us. We had wanted to do a fundrasier this year, it won't happen til the fall of 2010. We are in the process of securing a location, and still working on the details. With the money going to Intervarsity Christian Fellowship, which is the organization that Mike loved, and was working for at the time of his passing. Keep checking for more info as it becomes available. Thanks for everyone that helped us thorugh the last year, it's been the hardest year of our lives. We miss our son dearly, but life goes on. We will never forget him, we think about and talk about him daily. There is not a day of our life that we don't think about this tragedy, and our beloved son.

We have planted some bushes in our front yard, along with a angel bush we were given at Mike's funeral. We are adding a few more bushes in Mike's Garden. We are up to a total of 3 bushes now, we are still working on a sign. I hope to have it made soon. Keep an eye out for some new updates photos soon.

Angel Bush

2009-07-29T21:25:00.002-05:00

This is one of the buds, that is almost in full bloom.

Angel Bush

2009-07-29T21:21:00.000-05:00

Lily Plant

2009-07-14T17:27:00.002-05:00

This is another plant from Mike's Funeral, it is a very pretty plant especially when it is blooming. It has lots of lilies on it. Thanks to the The Oftedahl family.

Angel Bush

2009-07-14T14:36:00.006-05:00

This is a bush we were given by one of Mike's best friends and his parents. It is now blooming, we planted it in our front yard. We are in the process of planting a few more bushes, for Mike's Garden. Thanks to the Strzyzewski Family, for this bush. Watch for more photo's as it is in full bloom, it is just starting to bloom.

Recipe Books-Fund Raiser for Intervaristy

2009-05-05T21:48:00.003-05:00

The recipe books are now available, at my craft shows, go check out my show schedule on my website, www.creativetouchcrafts.net. They are also be available at http://www.creativetouchcrafts.net/cookbook1.html
They are also available at Cuddles 349 W. Broadway, Waukesha, WI, they will also be available at a few other locations soon, one location in Wisc Dells, and one in Port Washington, as soon as I get them in the Craft Malls there. I will post location as soon as I get them there.

Stop Light

2009-04-29T17:30:00.003-05:00

We had a discussion with the Chancellor for UW Whitewater about a week ago about the stop light being installed, at the insection where the accident happened. Thanks for his support, on the stop light issue.

Main Street signal gets green light
Grant allows city to fund traffic light at intersection

The city of Whitewater received a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for installation of traffic lights at the Main and Whiton street intersection.Pedestrian safety became a concern after former student Mike Chaloupka was hit by a car while crossing the street Aug. 28. Chaloupka, who was in a wheelchair, died two weeks later from injuries sustained from the accident."I was happy to learn that the city was able to secure grant funding to help with the installation of the light," Chancellor Richard Telfer said. "It will help make the intersection safer."The Department of Transportation will send the city an agreement for the project covering 90 percent of the costs including engineering, equipment and installation costs. The remaining 10 percent of the project will be funded by the city.City Manager Kevin Brunner said the intersection safety revamp will cost $12,000 to $15,000. The project carries an estimated total cost of $138, 400.Late last year, the Whitewater Common Council approved the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection and authorized the engineering contract with Strand Associates of Madison.Public Works Director Dean Fischer said he called the WisDot Southeast region office after the start of the project asking if the Highway Safety Improvement Program would help fund the installation of three signals."The Southeast region of DOT asked that I submit the application to them for review from the region's perspective to give the city an indication whether it would compete with other projects," Fischer said. Fischer said the city later received word the project would meet the requirements to be funded as a safety improvement project. Safety improvement projects revolve around what are perceived to be high-risk rural roads.Fischer said they must follow a selection process to find a suitable architectural and engineering service for publicly funded projects. WisDot advertises the project to the public and selects a bidder to perform the installation.
"Once the engineer is selected, the DOT negotiates the contract with the engineer," Fischer said. "Once the engineer is contracted, they design the traffic signals and prepare the plans and specifications." After Chaloupka's death, Telfer became part of a traffic study focus group approved by the Whitewater Common Council in October to look at possible intersection improvements.The group also included former Whitewater Student Government member Dane Checolinski and University Police Chief Matt Kiederlen.The council sought ideas to enhance safety at the intersection in addition to electric pedestrian signs the city installed to prevent further accidents.Ideas best received by the council included making the intersection a multiway stop to regulate traffic, traffic signals and converting the two-way street into a one way."The council decided the stop-and-go light would be the best alternative," Brunner said. "Then we started to engineer this and got wind of some possible funding so Dean pursued the funding."Brunner said despite having to go through a competitive bidding process, the city will continue to work with Stand Associates due to their extensive work on the intersection so far.Common Council President Patrick Singer said the traffic lights were the city's best choice. "Obviously it helps us fund some other things that we were looking at doing that we put off to fund the intersection," Singer said. "So it's the best of both worlds; we get the safety, and we get that [light] installed in a timely manner."District 2 Councilman Max Taylor said he agreed the grant will help save money on city renovations."The fact we were awarded this grant is absolutely fantastic for our budgetary situation," Taylor said. "It's going to take the burden off our capital improvements plan so we can spend that money on other projects."Brunner said the light likely won't be installed until late 2009 or early 2010 due to the bidding and development processes.

Blair School Book Donation

2009-04-14T21:48:00.002-05:00

We got a letter from the Grade School Mike went to. It was a very thoughtful thing they did. Here is the letter we got.

The teachers and staff of Blair Elementary School have purchased three books and placed them in out library in loving memory of your sweet son, Michael. He made a special impact upon so many of our lives, and he will forever be remembered as a kind, very special young man.

Three books have been placed in our library and are being shared by the present students of Blair. Each book have an inscription the reads: In loving memory of Michael Chaloupka, 197 Blair School Graduate.

Please know that Michael remains in our hearts through precious memories. Thank you both for sharing this treasured young man with the world.

Thanks to all the Staff at Blair School.

Mike's Birthday

2009-04-10T17:07:00.004-05:00

Today is Mike's Birthday and he would have been 24 years old today. It is very comforting all the Birthday wishes Mike got on his birthday on facebook. Thanks to everyone that helped make this day, a little easier. We miss Mike dearly, and we also got a letter from the person that caused the accident that took Mike from us way to soon . She was asking us for forgiveness, and that is what Mike would want. We just hope that she drives much more careful, and learned a lesson from all of this. That is what Mike would want, forgivenes. God Bless everyone that has helped us through this, and Happy Easter.

Mass For Mike

2009-04-02T11:11:00.002-05:00

At St. Catholic Church, on Wednesday April 8th, at 8:15 a.m.-9:00 p.m. St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson.

In honor of Mike's birthday, April 10th (Good Friday), one of Mike's friends is having a mass said for him. It is at a Catholic Church, but you don't have to be Catholic just to attend the mass. It's a way to celebrate Mike, his life, and the God he loved and worshiped so much!

Award In Honor Of Mike

2009-03-20T19:52:00.002-05:00

Michael Chaloupka Leadership Award
In memory & honor of Michael Chaloupka leadership and contributions, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (UWW), along with the Chaloupka family, is offering the Michael Chaloupka Leadership Award. The award will be presented at the Disability Awareness & Coalition Banquet. UWW Students may self-nominate or be nominated by a faculty, staff or community member. All nominations should be written in letter form and include the following:
Evidence of leadership performed
Evidence of increasing responsibility over time
Evidence of participation in multiple aspects of campus life
Evidence of off-campus activities
Recommendation letter to include examples of student’s ethics and integrity, positive role modeling or having a positive influence on others

Photo Quilts

2009-03-06T14:37:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple more quilts I made using Mike's Shirts.

Photo Quilts-Using Mike's Shirts

2009-02-20T19:27:00.003-06:00

This is a project that has keep me busy the last couple of weeks. I am sure you remember Mike wearing some of these shirts. It has been a very fun project to do, and all the memories that go along with these. Here is a couple photos of the quilts/wallhanging, and more comming soon. The cool part is that the photos can be changed at any time, one of the quilts needs the photos added of Mike. My daughter will finish hers soon, but she is busy finishing the cookbook.

In Memory Of Mike-Christmas Decor

2009-02-12T17:57:00.002-06:00

A donation has been made in memory of Mike for Christmas decorations at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson. The 8:15 a.m. Mass on Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson will be said in memory of Mike. Thanks to one of Mike's friend for the donation, Heather.

Mike Chaloupka Leadership Award

2009-02-12T17:52:00.003-06:00

UW Whitewater is creating a Leadership Award to be given out once a year. Mike Chaloupka Leadership Award, for the organization Disability Advocacy and Awareness Coalition. This is the organization that Mike was the president for 2 years, his last 2 years of college. UW Whitewater wanted to acknowledge all of Mike’s hard work and involvement in Disability Advocacy and Awareness Coalition.

Traffic Light Where Mike Was Hit

2009-02-04T07:42:00.001-06:00

Council votes to install traffic light at intersection of Whiton and Main Street

The Whitewater Common Council voted 4-3 Tuesday night to install a traffic light at the intersection of Whiton and Main Street, pending the decision of funding for the project.Chancellor Richard Telfer was pleased to see progress was made."The real issue is pedestrian safety, although money is still a significant issue," Telfer said. "Although the current flashing lights at eye level are a great help, they don't address the total issue."Councilman Roy Nosek led the opposition of the traffic light installation, saying the current lights are not making the problem go away, but are helping to diminish it."We need to reduce the amount of traffic on Main Street," Nosek said. "There needs to be restrictions on parking for people who live close to campus."Nosek proposed limiting parking restrictions of students who are close enough to walk to their classes. This in turn would reduce traffic of students trying to find parking spots in between classes, Nosek said.Both Councilmen James Allen and Lynn Binnie agreed with Nosek to vote against installing a traffic light.Allen motioned the city staff to continue to observe other alternatives for the intersection, saying pedestrian safety was improving after the installation of the flashing crossing lights at the intersection.Binnie wanted the city to agree to install brighter lighting at the dangerous intersections for pedestrian safety at night."My gut says eventually there will be a traffic light," Binnie said. "For now we should focus on better lighting and improvements for disabled accessibility."An appeal for safety enhancements was made after UW-Whitewater graduate Mike Chaloupka, 23, died last September from injuries sustained after he was hit by a car while crossing the intersection in his wheelchair.Allison Rygh, Whitewater student government president, agreed with Telfer on the Council's vote. Rygh said the installation of a traffic light was the best decision for pedestrian safety.The other two alternatives traffic engineer Luke Homan of Strand and Associates proposed was the installation of a pedestrian refuge island, and construction to turn Whiton Street into a cul-de-sac, preventing left-hand turns.If funding for the traffic light is approved, the installation will cost around $125,000.

Recipe Book

2009-02-03T19:51:00.002-06:00

Sorry we are no longer accepting recipes, the deadline was January 15th. Our hopes is that the recipe books will be available on or before Mikes Birthday, which is April 10th. They will be available online, and at a few retail stores in Waukesha, Cuddles Hallmark and Martha Merrell's Books & Cafe, and maybe a few other places.
Thanks to everyone for donating the recipes, it will be a great book.

Photo's Of Mike, From a baby to May 2008

2009-01-02T18:05:00.001-06:00

Recipes Needed For Recipe Book

2008-12-28T18:14:00.001-06:00

I am sure most of our friends and family know that we are in the processing of putting together a recipe book, the deadline was December 31st. But we have extended it to January 15th; if you plan on putting a recipe in the book please get it to us ASAP. Because we would like to get the book printed and ready to start selling it by April.

We are currently in the process of working on a recipe book to sell, with all the profits going to Intervarsity. We are looking for recipes from you, the people that Mike shared his life with and touched. We are asking you to share with us a recipe and a brief story (50-100 words) on how Mike touched your life. If you don’t want to share a story you can still send us a recipe or two. You can mail it to me or email it to:
mikeswishes@gmail.com

We would like to do a chili section if we get enough recipes, since Mike loved his Chili. He could eat more chili in a setting than anyone I know of, way more than I could. I would always ask him where are you putting that.

Thanks for everyone that alreadly submitted recipes.

Missing Mike-Our First Christmas WIthout Him

2008-12-26T20:32:00.002-06:00

We miss him very much, but life must go on. He would want us to all be happy, and not upset or depressed. I hope all of our and Mike's friends and family have A Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year.

My First Christmas in Heaven (~anonymous)

I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below
With tiny lights, like Heavenʼs stars, reflecting on the snow.
The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away that tearFor I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dearBut the sounds of music canʼt compare with the choir they have up here.
I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring,For it is beyond description, to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me, the pain in your heart.But I am not so far away, We really arenʼt apart.
So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tearRemember, I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

Video from a Student of UW Oshkosh On Disabilities

2008-12-24T20:27:00.007-06:00

Update on recipe book

2008-11-25T08:16:00.005-06:00

We are currently in the process of working on a recipe book to sell, with all the profits going to Intervarsity. We are looking for recipes from you, the people that Mike shared his life with and touched. We are asking you to share with us a recipe and a brief story (50-100 words) on how Mike touched your life.

Our deadline to submit recipes is December 31. As of right now we need alot more recipes, we have only received a few. So please submit to this email address, mikeswishes@gmail.com
You can also mail them to us, if you need our address please email me for that.

We have also decided to do a Chili recipe section, because that was one of Mikes favorite things to eat.

Also if you decide not to add a story about Mike that is fine, you can still submit a recipe. You can submit more than recipe, as many as you would like.
Thanks to everyone that alreadly submitted a recipe.

God Bless your and your family and Have A Happy Thanksgiving.

Cross Walk Article Where Mike Was Hit

2008-10-15T07:20:00.001-05:00

http://media.www.royalpurplenews.com/media/storage/paper1225/news/2008/10/15/News/Council.Delays.Action.On.Main.Street-3486398.shtml

The Many Faces Of Mike

2008-10-13T19:30:00.001-05:00

Recipe Book Fundraiser-Proceeds Supporting Intervarsity

2008-10-13T19:24:00.005-05:00

Dear Friends & Family of Mike,

It’s been over a month now since Mike left us here on earth and went to go be where he always wanted to be, Heaven! Through the last few years in college and since he graduated in May he has been heavily involved in Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. He was currently working this summer to raise enough money to be a Lay Minister at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. His dream was cut short by the tragic accident that occurred August 26th. But his legacy will live on with the students that he touched. As family members and close friends of Mike, we would like to raise some money for the UWW Chapter of Intervarsity Christian Fellowship so they may continue to support and help those students that Mike so deeply wanted to help and reach out to.We are currently in the process of working on a recipe book to sell, with all the profits going to Intervarsity. We are looking for recipes from you, the people that Mike shared his life with and touched. We are asking you to share with us a recipe and a brief story (50-100 words) on how Mike touched your life. Please email all recipes to mail to:
mikeswishes@gmail.com
by December 31, 2008. Any questions can be directed to Julie or Jenny at the above mentioned email address.

Thank you and God bless!

Mike’s Family

Photo's Shots From The Funeral

2008-10-13T19:17:00.002-05:00

Here is a couple photo's of Mike, and a monkey he usually had hanging on his chair.

More Campus Talk

2008-09-28T22:33:00.002-05:00

There is a new article in the campus newspaper that has raised a lot of comments.

Driver receives no additional charges after student death
Royal Purple News - Whitewater,WI,USA
The driver of the car that struck Michael Chaloupka, will not receive additional charges as a result of his death. Roschelle Sims, 22, a resident of ...
See all stories on this topic

I would like to comment that we talked to Mike while he was at the Fort Atkinson ER before he was flown to Madison. He did agree we should have a lawyer represent his interests and we contacted one the next day. What happens now is I guess up to his Mom and me. We have not decided the path this should take, and we are considering what we think Mike would like to do. We cannot decide until we know more and things settle down. All options remain open.

Another thought that came up in the comments and the article is about the crosswalk lights there and at other intersections. Most of us have crossed the street and have pushed these buttons. Now consider trying to push that button while sitting in a chair and not having the strength to raise your hand 2 inches above their resting point in front of you. There has to be an available reasonably costed technology available to solve that problem. Instead of a physical button, break a light beam on the post or some short range sensor that doesn't require physical strength to operate. My daughter struggles to get around the city of Waukesha, and most places in Waukesha have installed recently ADA compliant (but only for the sight impaired) crosswalk buttons that are hard for me to push. She has NO chance at pushing them unless someone is walking with her to do it.

Talk to the people that Mike walked around with. He was incredibly paranoid about crossing the street. You would be too if your older sister were hit by a bus 14 years earlier crossing a Waukesha street. She is luckier than Mike, and survived after a dozen operations, an amputation, and seizure disorder the rest of her life. There had to be something going on that Mike and the Young Lady didn't see each other. Someday I hope we will find out what that was. In the mean time, the authorities say there should be no further charges and I don't see a reason to dissagree. Be mad that it happened. Work towards getting better crosswalks and buttons that the less able among us can operate. Remember Mike for who he was and what he did and what he would want. Life goes on. Lets make the place we are in a better place, not an angry place. I guarentee you Mike would not want anyone to hate or harrass or otherwise wish bad things on the Young Lady. So please don't.

Mike's Dad

(PS, if someone could post these comments or a link to this posting in the comments of that article above, I would appreciate it.)

Articles-Funeral-CrossWalk Issues Whitewater

2008-09-23T18:58:00.001-05:00

http://www.royalpurplenews.com/home/index.cfm?q=mike+chaloupka&event=displaySearchResults&buttonPushed=1&client=testing-testing&forid=1&ie=ISO-8859-1&oe=ISO-8859-1&cof=GALT%3A%23008000%3BGL%3A1%3BDIV%3A%23666666%3BVLC%3A663399%3BAH%3Acenter%3BBGC%3AFFFFFF%3BLBGC%3AFFFFFF%3BALC%3A0000FF%3BLC%3A0000FF%3BT%3A000000%3BGFNT%3A0000FF%3BGIMP%3A0000FF%3BLH%3A37%3BLW%3A310%3BFORID%3A1%3B&hl=en

Dedication Memorial To Mike

2008-09-16T21:09:00.003-05:00

Check the blog periodically to find out more details. We also plan on doing a fundraiser, to keep up the work Mike was planning on doing, through Intervarsity. This is what he would want.

If you would like to be notified by email when we have more of the details, send me your email address to
handmadegifts@gmail.com

Thank You

2008-09-16T21:02:00.003-05:00

To all Mikes and our friends and family.

There just are no words to thank you for your loving kindness and the expression of sympathy you have shown us during this difficult time, over the last couple of weeks. We will be forever grateful.
With all our love, The Chaloupka's

Photos of Mike

2008-09-14T17:39:00.002-05:00

Thanks to my Auntie Ellie, for making this all possible.

http://www.linkingyourpast.com/gallery/index.php?album=mike_chaloupka

2008-09-12T09:02:00.003-05:00

I did some more searching this morning for articles about Mike. The first section is the new stuff that had not been on here before, the bottom after the break is the older stuff you can find earlier in the Blog. I wanted to pull it all together into one spot. If you see something new, send me a comment and I will look at it.

http://gazettextra.com/news/2008/sep/11/man-wheelchair-dies-after-crash/

http://andybilhorn.wordpress.com/2008/09/11/why-me/

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=794022

http://gazettextra.com/obits/2008/sep/11/michael-chaloupka/

http://media.www.royalpurplenews.com/media/storage/paper1225/news/2008/09/10/News/Students.Community.Mourn.Death.Of.Former.Student-3422208.shtml

http://activepaper.olivesoftware.com/Daily/skins/Freeman/navigator.asp?skin=Freeman&BP=OK&AW=1221220945432

http://media.collegepublisher.com/media/paper1225/documents/cm7k3c35.pdf
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-wi-fatalaccident,0,846388.story
http://www.intervarsity.org/news/statement-on-mike-chaloupka
http://www.theweekextra.com/blogs/editor/2008/09/man-in-wheelchair-struck-by-car-dies.html

http://www.myfoxmilwaukee.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail;jsessionid=E2AF3283FB2BAB45F2CAA14E2774BB87?contentId=7363860&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=1.1.1&sflg=1

http://blogs.uww.edu/chancellor/
http://media.www.royalpurplenews.com/media/storage/paper1225/news/2008/09/03/News/Student.In.Wheelchair.Hit.By.Car.On.Main.Street-3411923.shtml

http://gazettextra.com/news/2008/aug/27/man-wheelchair-injured-car-accident/
http://www.topix.com/colleges/university-of-wisconsin-whitewater/2008/08/man-in-wheelchair-injured-in-car-accident
http://www.channel3000.com/news/17314471/detail.html?rss=c3k&psp=news
http://www.wkowtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8909119
http://gazettextra.com/news/2008/aug/29/driver-cited-hitting-man-wheelchair/
http://dailyunion.com/news/news.html#feature_03
http://www.whitewaterbanner.com/
http://wclo.com/news/2008/aug/29/driver-cited-hitting-man-wheelchair/
http://media.www.royalpurplenews.com/media/storage/paper1225/news/2008/08/27/News/Student.In.Wheelchair.Hit.By.Car-3405180.shtml

Mike's Life

2008-09-12T07:14:00.002-05:00

You need to be a Freeman subscriber to read this, or pick up a copy of today's Waukesha Freeman, or we are trying to get copies for reading at the Memorial Service Saturday. Here's the link:
http://activepaper.olivesoftware.com/Daily/skins/Freeman/navigator.asp?skin=Freeman&BP=OK&AW=1221220945432

Obituary-Written By Auntie Ellie

2008-09-10T16:28:00.004-05:00

Michael James Chaloupka, 23, of Whitewater, formerly of Waukesha, passed on to his reward at University Hospital, Madison, Tuesday, September 9th, due to complications after a motor vehicle/wheelchair accident on August 26.

Mike was born April 10, 1985 in Waukesha, dear son of James and Julie (Roose) Chaloupka. He graduated in June 2003 from Waukesha North High School and from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater in May 2008. He served for several years as a Goodwill Ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

His most recent goal was to become a campus staff worker with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship at UWW rather than “using his degree” in the typical sense. Although he was afflicted with MD, he was always willing to lend a helping hand wherever needed, and was always content and happy.

Mike is survived by his loving parents of Waukesha; a sister, Jennifer; a brother, Scott; both of Waukesha. Grandparents, Wm. and Elaine Chaloupka, of Mishicot, WI; MaryAnn and Stanley Roose, of Manitowoc, WI; Aunts: Ellen (Chaloupka) Rohr of Brookfield; and Pamela (Roose) Gauthier of Manitowoc; an uncle, John Roose; seven cousins; special friends, Matt Strzyzewski and Lauren Oftendahl and the many people he touched. Services will be held ...(See Below)... Mike had been working hard to achieve his goals at InterVarsity, the youth ministry at UW Whitewater.

In lieu of flowers, please send your memorials and donations to InterVarisity (https://my.intervarsity.org/cf8b3aec000508237d0e9f2e730c7d26/donate.php ). He would appreciate that more than anything at this time. Your gift will not help him, but will help the organization he put his heart and soul into for the last 3 years.

The family wants to thank everyone who has given their support over the past two weeks, especially Nurse "Angel" Kristin and the rest of the staff at University Hospital. Tragedies such as this remind us to explore and embrace life in yourself and in everyone you see each day. For tomorrow, the world may be completely different and you may not have the chance that you did today. Mike accomplished much more in his short life than many of us only hope to. The world will miss him.

2008-09-10T15:14:00.002-05:00

The service is expected to include a time of open mike where whomever wants to can share a happy story or personal memory they had with Mike. You can come up alone, in groups, or if you want to share and can't say it then clearly write a couple of sentences before the service and someone will read it for you. I'm sure Mike would rather hear from you personally, however.

There will be a place to bring and share finger food, munchies, snacks, etc. I don't know details on this yet, more as we figure it out.

Whatever you bring, make sure it is eaten or take it with you at the conclusion of the service so that we are not stuck with a 3 year supply of chips.

Arrangements

2008-09-09T18:30:00.004-05:00

This is our first time through a personal loss like this, and we are in the middle of making arrangements. We currently have plans to have services Saturday afternoon at 2pm at the Church Michael attended, CrossPointe Community Church.
http://www.crosscc.org/
The church is located in Whitewater at 445 N. Warner Road. The church website has a good set of directions.

Mike had been working hard to achieve his goals at InterVarsity. In lieu of flowers please send your memorials there. Go to http://www.intervarsity.org/ and click on donate in the left column, and donate in Mike Chaloupka's name. He would appreciate that more than anything at this time. Your gift will not help him, but will help the organization he put his heart and soul into for the last 3 years.

September 9, 2008

2008-09-09T11:46:00.003-05:00

After a two week struggle Mike passed away at 10:42am this morning.

There's good and bad in most days

2008-09-08T22:06:00.004-05:00

Mike now needs a lower concentration of oxygen to keep his numbers up. He still needs it but it is an improvement. There was also some eye movement. We'll give thanks for anything that shows good signs.
The less good news is that they did a head CT scan and found some more issues. They are not exactly sure what it means yet, but Mike could use your prayers to heal this and take away whatever the Doctor didn't like when he looked at it.

Gift Of Balloons Mike Received

2008-09-08T11:26:00.004-05:00

A Second from Dad

2008-09-07T22:25:00.002-05:00

Mike is still a very ill young man.
He has made great strides in the almost 2 weeks since his accident and there is reason for us to smile. I have not got my smile from him yet, and he is still not out of the woods, but he can see out of the woods from where he is today.

Your prayers are helping, I have no doubts.

Thanks for your support to Mike and to our whole family during this crisis.

Dad.

Good News

2008-09-07T20:00:00.005-05:00

Well Today was a great day. Mike no longer needs drugs to keep this blood pressure stable. His blood is now clotting without the help of med's. This is fabulous, he has had two great days.

News Article

2008-09-07T09:52:00.002-05:00

06-SEP-2008

2008-09-06T21:02:00.002-05:00

Grandma and I spent Friday night and part of Saturday with Mike so that Mom could tend to matters at home. It was good to see some progress, although minimal. We hold out hope each day that all the equipment and medications he needs to keep his body functioning will not cause permanent damage. We won't know that outcome for a while.
Situations like this sure make you think.. One minute you can be a happy and healthy person. The next minute can have a team of experts discussing which issue to deal with first.
Auntie Ellie
___________________________________

From Dad.
It was good to see Mike again after almost a week on the homefront. A day without bad news is a good day. He is tolerating all the treatment well and hanging in there like a trooper. I didn't get my smile yet, but a few more days like this and we will get there.
They say God doesn't give you more than you can handle. I believe this and have been using this as my credo (and Mike's) for the past few weeks.

05-SEP-2008

2008-09-05T20:10:00.000-05:00

Today he had a pretty good day. He is still in critical condition, but we saw a little improvement. He still needs everyone to pray for him, he has alot of mending to do. As the doctor's put it, he is very sick.

News Coverage Fox 6

2008-09-05T08:39:00.000-05:00

http://www.myfoxmilwaukee.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail;jsessionid=E2AF3283FB2BAB45F2CAA14E2774BB87?contentId=7363860&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=1.1.1&sflg=1

For anyone that wasn't able to see it, because you don't live in the area. It might take a couple minutes to load.

04-SEP-2008

2008-09-04T20:52:00.001-05:00

I will be leaving some time in the afternoon. I need to go home and get a few things done. I will return on Saturday Morning with Jim. We will stay the weekend and go home Sunday evening. I will return on Monday morning and stay until Friday sometime. This will kind of be the schedule I believe.

This Aunt Ellen will be here tomorrow afternoon to stay with him.

Respiratory

2008-09-04T20:46:00.000-05:00

Today went pretty well, actually better than all the doctors and nurses thought it would go. Because all the setting needed to be adjusted a few times. Every time they are adjusted his vitals go down, but they stayed in a pretty normal range for him.

I actually got a thumbs up from one of the doctors, he was more than please how the switch over went. I was really worried, but he did a pretty good.

New Coverage

2008-09-04T14:44:00.000-05:00

The story should run on Fox6-milwaukee at 9 p.m. tonight.

Once it airs it will be posted on their website, www.myfoxmilwaukee.com

Pray

2008-09-04T13:10:00.000-05:00

Please pray for Mike. He is going to be going a switched to a respiratory that should help him more. Please pray that the switch goes well, because like everything there are side effects. He needs everyone to Pray.

Loved Ones

2008-09-04T07:28:00.000-05:00

This is to all our families friends, relatives, and every one we know.

Please, Please don't ever forget to tell your loved ones what they mean to you. Because anything can happen in the blink of a eye.
I week ago I never thought our lives would change so much in a blink of an eye.

That is how fast something like this can happen. He knows we love him, because we talk a lot on the phone, and we always say, I Love You, before we hang up.

That is a word I use often with my children. We love you all.

The Chaloupka Family

04-SEP-2008

2008-09-04T07:01:00.001-05:00

On Tuesday when I returned to the hospital. One of his nurses told me he lost a tooth, I was shocked. Since he really didn't have any injuries to his head. So I am assuming it is one of his front teeth. But this is a small tooth, I believe it was still one of his baby teeth. It is a very small tooth. We can't tell for sure what tooth it is, because of the breathing tube in his mouth.

03-SEP-2008

2008-09-03T20:33:00.002-05:00

Well today went pretty good. The spunky Mike is starting to show, that he is fighting hard. He tells you in a way, don't touch me. When he is moved his vitals go down, but in a little while then come back up. I can't even imagine with all the breaks, what is must fell like to be moved. In other words he is saying leave me alone.

03-SEP-2008

2008-09-03T19:48:00.001-05:00

Today went pretty well. He basically is the same as yesterday.

News Article

2008-09-03T16:38:00.001-05:00

http://blogs.uww.edu/chancellor/
http://media.www.royalpurplenews.com/media/storage/paper1225/news/2008/09/03/News/Student.In.Wheelchair.Hit.By.Car.On.Main.Street-3411923.shtml

News Coverage

2008-09-03T16:33:00.000-05:00

There will be a news story of Fox 6 Milwaukee. I am not sure at what time it will be on. As soon as I find out I will post it.
Maybe at 9 p.m., but I don't know for sure. That is the info I got his roommate. I don't think the report actually knew for sure.

One Week Since Accident

2008-09-03T07:02:00.000-05:00

Well it has been one week since the accident, he has made great strives since then. He is still in critical condition, but still has a long way to come. Thank God, there is no way to thank everyone for there love and support. Words cannot express our gratitude to all of you.

I am at the hospital most of the time, most of you have my cell phone number call me or email me, if you want to make sure I am here. My email is posted on the blog. He can have visitors but I can only take in a couple at a time. But be prepared if you come, it not easy seeing him like this.

Visits help me right now, since I am at the hospital alone, most of the time. I have decided to stay here, I will probably go home about once a week to do what needs to be done there. On the weekends Me and Jim will both be here.

Julie

Mikes's Wishes

2008-09-03T06:46:00.000-05:00

This is a letter he wrote to his Aunt Ellen. Concerning what he wanted to do, and how we all could help him in his mission. This is what he wants to do, and we fully support him in that mission.

http://blog.linkstothepast.com/2008/09/02/sorry-i-havent-posted/

To support him, here is the link. Donate to Mike Chaloupka, there will be a spot to put in his name.
https://my.intervarsity.org/e4fc91aca4ce29aec66980ed91832ea8/donate.php

Julie-Mike's Mom

Hospital

2008-09-02T15:10:00.000-05:00

I've had many requests to send flowers, but he can't have them in ICU. Here is the address if you'd like to send cards.

Mike Chaloupka
c/o UW Hospital
TLC Unit #8
600 Highland Ave
Madison, WI 53792

Auntie Ellie's Day With Me

2008-09-01T23:04:00.000-05:00

I thank Jim and Julie for taking the time to breathe at home and take care of other matters that needed tending. Mike needs you to take care of yourselves.
When I arrived this morning I was semi alarmed when I saw the team of doctors standing outside his room with the curtain closed. It must of showed. His nurse immediately came over to me and told me the doctors were just discussing the case and I could go in. If you are faint of heart, I do encourage you to send your well wishes in the form of cards or emails that can be read to him. The doctors told me they had found the reason for he infection and were taking measures to correct the problem. They had the room very chilly and later put ice packs under his arm pits to keep his temp down. By afternoon he no longer had a temp and by 4 they had put the blankets on him and turned up the heat so he would stay warm enough.
The staff at University Hospital is great. I spent a lot of the day watching the "team" of experts take care of him. He is assigned a nurse that watches him.... but the rest of the nurses kept popping their head in to see if Lisa needed help. The doctors were very good at making sure I understood what they just said to the nurses. I work in the computer business and I thought there were a lot of TLAs there (three letter acronyms). There sure are a lot of two and TLAs in the medical profession!
Overall I would say he held his own today although he is still critical. There were times he didn't do as well as we would have liked..... but most times I could tell Mike was in their fighting.
We are all praying for you Mike.
Auntie Ellie

01-SEP-2008

2008-09-01T22:34:00.000-05:00

Mom and I were home today. My Sister was the very capable pinch batter for us. They are still chasing reasons for infection that is there but remaining in check. He's still sedated with more hick-ups and no smile.

PS, I added a counter so mike knows you are checking in.

Dad

2008-09-01T09:57:00.000-05:00

Last night when we left mike was starting a Fever, so they were starting medicine for that. The fever was better this morning, but we don't need more issues, so pray that that doesn't come back.

Mom and I are home today, trying to get things together and organized. Aunt Ellen will be the on-site support today and we keep calling the staff for updates, so look here for the latest.

PS, I didn't post last night because we ate food from a care package and collapsed into our bed for the first time in a week.

Before The Accident

2008-08-31T06:30:00.000-05:00

http://www.mdaquest-digital.com/mdaquest/20070708/?pg=30
http://orgs.uww.edu/ivcf/index.php

2008-08-30T23:14:00.000-05:00

Mike had a good day, and is making good progress. He has been improving a little each day.

Visits

2008-08-30T13:21:00.000-05:00

Julie and I are getting more and more requests about visitors to see Mike. Mike is in intensive care, or as they call it here TLC (Trama Life Center). The room is small, the equipment he is attached to is many. He is not awake or speaking yet. They only will allow Family in and only 1 or 2 at a time. We can streach family a bit but a lot of traffic to the room thru where there are 11 other open doors to TLC patients is an issue. Also we need to make sure you are ready for what you see. It has been a bit much for some of the adults already, so waiting a while may be best.

Mom and I are going to start picking up the pieces at home next week, so we won't be here at the hospital 24 hours any longer unless there are changes. We are planning on someone being here during the day and commuting home at night. Please call Julie to make sure one of us is here if you are going to come here. If you don't already know the number, use the email listed here and she will call you back. When he gets better enough to get out of TLC and into a regular room, this won't be an issue any longer. For now please make sure we know you are coming so that you won't be dissapointed.

For now Prayers, supporting each other, and keeping informed is what Mike needs. I am feeling the strength everyone is sending us, I'm sure Mike is as well.

Thanks, Mikes Dad.

Some of Mikes Flowers

2008-08-30T10:26:00.000-05:00

News Articles

2008-08-29T22:09:00.000-05:00

August 29

2008-08-29T21:35:00.000-05:00

He is getting a little better today, and his splints were put on his legs today. Please keep him in your prayers.

Do you think of a case of hickups as a good thing? How about twice in the same day. The team in the room seem to think it is a good sign that we got from Michael today.
Personally I'm holding out for a big smile.

Goals we are working on now, continue to keep up the oxygen saturation levels while lowering the amount of outside medical intervention. (Outside intervention from the higher authority is welcome)

Mike in TLC

2008-08-29T15:27:00.001-05:00

What Mike would want

2008-08-29T14:00:00.000-05:00

Mike has been working very hard preparing for his ministry thru InterVarsity. His plans are to become a full time campus staff member at UW Whitewater once he raises his funds. In his role he will be serving as a lay minister to college students on campus. Keep him in your prayers. If you want to do something more for him, go to http://www.intervarsity.org/ and click on donate in the left column, and donate a dollar in Mike Chaloupka's name. He would appreciate that more than anything at this time.

Thanks,

Mikes Dad, Jim.

Injuries

2008-08-29T11:57:00.000-05:00

Mike was hit by a car crossing the street. His injuries are 12 broken bones and collapsed lungs.

He is in critical condition. He is on a breathing machine. He is making improvements slowly. Day by day he is getting a little stronger.