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Cara Yang, a senior at Whitewater High School, signs her contract with the University of Utah
In a world where Division I soccer often favors height and athletic prototypes, one young athlete is proving that heart, discipline, and determination can overcome any obstacle. At just 5 feet 2 inches tall, and hailing from a quiet small town with limited local opportunities, Cara Yang’s story is one of relentless pursuit and ultimate triumph.
For eight years, Cara committed everything to her dream of playing college soccer at the highest level. Living far from training facilities, she endured over an hour drive for weekday practices–close to three hours total on the road, multiple times a week. Weekends meant even longer journeys for games and tournaments, often turning family time into a blur of highways and hotel rooms.
The sacrifices were immense. She missed school activities, skipped social gatherings, and said no to hangouts with friends. “It wasn’t easy,” she reflects. “But every missed event was as step toward something bigger.” While her peers enjoyed typical high school experience, Cara balanced rigorous academics with exhaustive training, all fueled by an unwavering vision of competing on a big stage.
Then in her junior year of high school, heartbreak struck. During an early season conference game, Cara was tackled and felt the devastating pop–an ACL tear. The diagnosis crushed her: surgery, months off the field, the fear that her dream was slipping away. Recovery was brutal. Endless physical therapy sessions, grueling rehab exercises, pain that tested her limits. She rebuilt her strength from scratch–hip work, balance drills, slow jobs turning into sprints. Doubts tried to creep in, but she refused to quit. Her comeback was emotional. The injury may have slowed her down–it stole months, forced her to adapt–but it never stopped her.
Her perseverance paid off in the best way possible: a commitment to play for the University of Utah. Surrounded by family, coaches, and friends, she signed her official contract, marking the culmination of years of quiet dedication.
Cara’s journey reminds us that talent comes in all sizes, and dreams don’t measure height–they measure commitment and how we rise after the fall. As she prepares to step on the field in the Big 12, she’s not just representing her small town; she’s inspiring every undersized athlete who dares to dream big.
Editor’s note: This article was submitted by Joy Yang.
Wreaths Across America Ceremony in LaGrange
On Saturday, December 20th, a crowd of one hundred gathered at Heart Prairie Cemetery in LaGrange to participate in the postponed national Wreaths Across America (WAA) event. The purpose of this gathering was to honor the fallen veterans who are buried in the cemetery.
Those in attendance paid tribute by placing 42 wreaths on the gravesites of veterans who had served the United States from the War of 1812 through the Vietnam conflict. Each wreath symbolized respect and remembrance for the sacrifices made by these individuals.
The ceremony was organized and conducted by Peggy Schutt, a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Samuel Phoenix Chapter. Collaborating with Jim Holden, the sexton of the cemetery, they established a high benchmark for the event. During the ceremony, Schutt read a statement provided by WAA, affirming the event’s mission: to remember the nation’s fallen heroes, honor their service, and educate future generations about the value of freedom.
Wreaths were placed in honor of each branch of military service, as well as a special wreath dedicated to those who are missing in action or prisoners of war (MIA/POWS). The ceremony featured remarks from Senator Steve Nass of LaGrange, Representative Brienne Brown of Whitewater, and John Scholz, the Walworth County Veterans Service Officer. Their words highlighted the significance of the event and the enduring gratitude owed to the veterans.
To conclude the opening ceremony, the Whitewater American Legion Post 173 provided a gun salute and played TAPS, offering a solemn tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for the country.
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Pat Blackmer.
Nearly 30 students at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater earned grants to conduct undergraduate research during the 2025-26 academic year.
The following students from your coverage area conducted research this fall:
Whitewater, WI 53190: Aiden Murray, whose major at UW-Whitewater is Physical Education.
Whitewater, WI 53190: Holly Shannon, whose major at UW-Whitewater is Environmental Science.
Academic Year (AY) Grants are awarded to a student or a small group of students of sophomore status or higher leading a research project endorsed by a UW-Whitewater faculty or staff member. Individual recipients of Academic Year Grants can receive up to $750, and groups can receive up to $1,500.
Funds through the grants support research supplies, travel, and publication costs. Students supported by Academic Year Grants must present at either the National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) or at the Universities of Wisconsin Symposium. (Costs associated with attending those events are covered by UW-Whitewater’s Undergraduate Research, Innovative, and Creative Activities (URICA) program.)
Students who conduct undergraduate research at UW-Whitewater are paired with faculty or staff mentors to conduct research. While working 1:1 with faculty and staff mentors to assist with research, students develop critical soft skills – including communication, critical thinking, and problem solving – that employers seek in job candidates.
To learn more about Academic Year Grants and undergraduate research at UW-Whitewater, visit uww.edu/urp.
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by UW-Whitewater.
| Gov. Evers, WisDOT Unveil New Blackout and Retro License Plate Designs for Wisconsin Drivers |
| Bipartisan state budget signed by Gov. Evers provided funding to release the much-anticipated plates, which are estimated to generate more than $25 million for the state’s transportation fund in the first three years |
| Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), recently unveiled the designs of Wisconsin’s newest state license plates, a Blackout design and a Retro butter yellow design, depicted below. The bipartisan 2025-27 Biennial Budget signed by Gov. Evers included $5.5 million in funding to support the introduction of these two new specialty license plates, which are estimated to generate more than $25 million for the state’s transportation fund in the first three years. The additional revenue for the state transportation fund will help build upon the Evers Administration’s efforts to invest in Wisconsin’s infrastructure to ensure it meets the needs of a 21st-century workforce and economy. Since 2019, the Evers Administration has improved more than 9,600 miles of roads and 2,400 bridges statewide. The two new license plates, which WisDOT fast-tracked development of the plates in order to ensure they would be ready for public distribution, will be available beginning in early January 2026. “These new specialty plates are a win-win for Wisconsin. They not only meet long-standing demand for new plate designs Wisconsinites can choose from, but will also provide new, ongoing resources so we can continue working to fix the darn roads across our state,” said Gov. Evers. “Bringing back the butter yellow Retro plate offers folks a sense of nostalgia while celebrating Wisconsin’s heritage as America’s Dairyland, and the new Blackout plate provides a contemporary look that folks have been asking for. Both plates embody a special sense of Wisconsin style, and I look forward to seeing them out on our roads.” The new Blackout plate features an all-black background with white letters, numbers, and outline. WisDOT estimates over half a million Blackout plates could be on the road within three years. An image of the Blackout design is available here. An image of the Retro butter yellow design is available here. An image of the Retro butter yellow and Blackout design side by side is available here and below. “As the former Wisconsin DMV administrator and now transportation secretary, I’m excited to see these new plates become a reality,” said WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman. “The design of the Blackout plate is simple, clean, and complements many vehicle colors. This style has been very popular in our neighboring states, and anticipation for these plates has been building here in Wisconsin for quite some time.” The Retro yellow or “butter” license plate harkens back to the 1970s, featuring the familiar black letters on a sharp, yellow background. “Some call it the butter plate, others call it the Retro plate but if you had one in the 1970s, it was just the Wisconsin license plate,” continued Secretary Boardman. “We put in some effort to get just the right shade of yellow. It’s nostalgic, it’s familiar to many, and I am planning to order one myself.” According to WisDOT, both license plates will feature the state name on top like all current Wisconsin plates, and the slogan “America’s Dairyland” will display beneath the numbers and letters on the Retro plate. Standard-issued plates will have a sequence of numbers and letters that are also unique. The Blackout plates will begin with ZAA 1001, and the Retro plates will begin with YAA 1001. The simplified design allows for up to seven characters for those wanting to personalize their plates. FEES AND ORDERING PROCESS Both plates come with a one-time $15 issuance fee, plus a $25 annual registration fee. The income generated from the registration of these plates will help finance infrastructure improvement projects all across the state. These plates will be available online, in most DMVs, at participating dealers, and third parties who already stock Wisconsin plates. The plates join dozens of others available to order online through DMV’s new web app wisconsindmv.gov/specialplates. The app streamlines the ordering process, helps customers select a plate from more than 60 options organized by interest areas, and makes delivery faster. Customers whose order requires no special eligibility, which includes the Blackout and Retro plate, and does not include a personalized message, could receive their plates within a week instead of several weeks via the traditional mail-in process. Approximately 25 percent of plates ordered through the new app are mailed out the next day. The guided online process allows the customer the option to personalize their plate with a custom message. The plate is then previewed to show the personalized message on the plate as they type it. The message is concurrently verified with the database to check for duplicates or known inappropriate words or phrases. This convenient process continues by allowing the customer to renew their vehicle registration at the same time. Finally, instead of needing to mail a check or money order, customers can pay online using modern, secure payment methods. DMV Customer Service Centers (wisconsindmv.gov/centers) that provide license plates/registration will also have stock on hand beginning in early January. |
Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the Office of the Governor.
My name is Orin Smith, and I currently serve as the Alderman for District 2 on the Whitewater Common Council. I am announcing my candidacy for the at-large alderman seat in the upcoming spring election.
Serving District 2 has been a meaningful responsibility and a privilege. Representing a district with a strong undergraduate student population has shaped how I think about accessibility, communication, and the importance of meeting people where they are. I am proud of the work I’ve done alongside residents, fellow council members, and city staff, and I remain committed to representing District 2 fully through the remainder of my term.
As more undergraduate students express interest in serving, I see an opportunity for District 2 to continue being represented by someone closely connected to the experiences that shape that part of our community. At the same time, I remain deeply committed to serving residents across Whitewater. Running for the at-large seat allows me to continue the work I care about, supporting meaningful community engagement, identifying avenues for local affordability, and building connections between neighbors, while focusing on the needs of people throughout the city rather than any single district.
I also bring a perspective that is common in Whitewater, but not always represented. I came here as a student and chose to stay. As a renter, I understand that the costs of living show up differently for different people, whether through rent, taxes, or other household expenses. Over time, Whitewater became my home, the place where I found community, a partner, and a career. That experience guides how I approach local leadership and decision-making, balancing affordability, shared responsibility, and care for the people who call Whitewater home.
If elected, I will continue to prioritize accessible governance, thoughtful collaboration, and decision-making that reflects the lived experiences of Whitewater residents. I believe strongly in local government that listens first and works to bring people together rather than divide them.
The spring election will be held on April 7th, 2026.
orinsmith018@gmail.com
(608) 739-1604
Story and photos courtesy of Tom Ganser
Residents of Fairhaven joined with members of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Phi Eta Sigma, a national honor society, and Empower, an organization designed to utilize the skills of its members in order to empower the world and our community around us, in making 2,428 dog treats in Fairhaven’s Olm Fellowship Hall on November 14. According to Brian Robinson, director of marketing, community relations & leisure services, this was about the 75th time that Fairhaven residents and UW-W students have worked side-by-side in this marvelous intergenerational activity.
| The University of Wisconsin–Whitewater Department of Music extends its sincere gratitude to the many local businesses, organizations, and individuals whose generous support helped make the 30th Annual Gala Concert a resounding success. Through program sponsorships and donated raffle basket items, these community partners played a vital role in supporting music scholarships for UW–Whitewater students. Now in its 30th year, the Gala Concert celebrates excellence in music performance while raising essential funds to help student musicians pursue their artistic and academic goals. Profits from this milestone event directly support scholarships that ease financial barriers and empower the next generation of artists and educators. The Department of Music gratefully acknowledges the following program sponsors for their financial support: $750 Sponsors First Citizens State Bank DLK Enterprises $500 Sponsors PremierBank McCullough’s LTC Pharmacy Mulberry Glen Campus – Independent & Assisted Living $250 Sponsors The Coburn Company, Inc. Burtness Chevrolet, Buick, GMC 841 Brewhouse Culver’s – MJ Whitewater LLC Ketterhagen Motor Sales Tincher Realty, Inc. Fairhaven Senior Services & Prairie Village Jessica’s Restaurant The Sweet Spot Coffee Shop LLC Whitewater Cinemas LLC White House of Music The Community Space Second Salem The department also offers heartfelt thanks to the many basket raffle donors, whose contributions added excitement to the event and helped raise additional scholarship funds: A Better Physique LLC; Aranda–Be Unique; Associated Bank; BaristaCats Café; Brain Freeze; Busy Barn Farm Adventures LLC & The Gathering Barn; Casey’s General Stores, Inc.; Carol L. Paur; Carrie Oster; Center Street Café; China House; Creative Forces; Culver’s – MJ Whitewater LLC; Dale’s Bootery; Dr. Diana Shapiro; Eagle Nutrition; Fanatico; Floral Villa Flowers & Gifts; Frosty Freeze; Glorify Beauty & Wellness for the Family; Good 2 Go; Gus’ Pizza Palace; Hippychick Penny’s Soaps & Body Care; Holiday Inn Express; Home Lumber; Hometown Pharmacy; Jersey Mike’s Subs; Janye; Knutson Jewelers Inc.; Kwik Trip; LG Axe Throwing; Lewis Station Winery; M&M Total Fitness CrossFit Fort Atkinson; Mary Jane Andersen; Monique’s Nail Services; Pam Van Doren; Pet Supplies Plus; Qēt Botanicals; Rosa’s Pizza; Sandy Pelc; Sim Stations; Starbucks; Staller Estate Winery and Vineyard; Spring Creek Golf Center; Subway; Taco Fiesta; Taco Fresco; Taqueria La Estrella; Tan-a-Latte and Gifts; The Book Teller; The Community Space; The Fuzzy Pig, Inc.; The Rabbit Hole; The Real MacCoys; The Vinery Stained Glass Studio; The Whitewater Arts Alliance; The Young Performing Arts Center; Toppers Pizza; UW-Whitewater College of Arts and Communication; Vintage on Main; Willow Brook Golf Course, LLC; and Whitewater Cinemas LLC. “The generosity of our local partners demonstrates the strength of our community and its commitment to arts education,” said Christian Ellenwood, Chair of the UW–Whitewater Department of Music. “Their support has a direct and lasting impact on our students, and we are deeply thankful.” For more information about UW–Whitewater music scholarships or future events, please visit uww.edu/music. |
| The College of Arts and Communication at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater offers rigorous programs in music, theatre, dance, and the visual arts; internships; pre-professional opportunities in journalism, advertising, and applied communication; and innovative interdisciplinary studies. Visit the College of Arts and Communication website for more information. |
Obituaries
Sally A. Schutte, age 73, of Whitewater, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 21, 2026, while at Hearthstone Memory Care in Whitewater. Sally was born on November 6, 1952, to Roy and Elsie (Rohloff) Haas. Sally married William Schutte in the spring of 2003. Sally grew up on the family farm in the Town of Hebron and graduated from Jefferson High School. She dedicated nearly her entire career to Fort HealthCare, where her hard work and versatility shone through various roles. Over the years, she served in housekeeping and medical records, Center for Dermatology. Sally … Read more
Zachariah “Zach” Schoenke, 41, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. He was born April 4, 1985, to Keith W. Schoenke and Kathleen Schoenke in Fort Atkinson, WI. He grew up and graduated from Whitewater High School in 2003. Zach worked various jobs over the years but was currently working at Cracker Barrel in Janesville. He was a big Packers Fan and liked to play fantasy football. He enjoyed reading, cooking, and watching horror shows. Zach fiercely loved his son, Lincoln, his sisters, Cami and Cary, his mom and stepdad, and his aunt Robin. He will be dearly … Read more
Carla Winn, 82, died September 5, 2026. Funeral Service will be at 12:00 PM, Saturday, September 12, 2026, at East Heights United Methodist Church, 4407 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67218, followed by a burial at 2:00 PM at White Chapel Memorial Garden 1806 N Oliver Ave. Carla is preceded in death by her parents, Vivian Dwight and Wilma Lois Krehbiel; and sister, Jennifer Krehbiel. She is survived by husband, Stephen; daughter, Ashley (Clint) Gagel, of Overland Park; siblings, Paul (Kay) Krehbiel, of Socorro, NM, Lynn (Bill) Oetting, of Wichita, Ellen (John) Querner, of Wichita, Teresa Woodson, of Lawrence, KS, … Read more
Susan Miller Celebration of Life There will be a gathering of friends and acquaintances at Susan’s Farm Store to celebrate Susan’s life on Saturday, September 19th from 2-5 p.m. at N6623 Lake Lorraine Rd., Delavan, Wisconsin
Our loving mother, JoAnn E Harrop, age 95, passed away on September 11, 2026. Our sorrow is deep, but we are filled with gratitude for the many years we had with her. Even as her mind was failing, she remained strong and appreciative of all who cared for her. JoAnn was born on January 13, 1931, daughter to Fred Braun and Evelyn Braun {Storck). She was raised in Whitewater, Wisconsin by her grandparents, Otto and Edith Storck. She attended Whitewater High School and helped at the Storck tavern where she met her husband Earl C. Harrop. They married on November … Read more
Russell O. Johnson “Russ,” 88, passed away on September 4, 2026 in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Russell was born on July 12, 1938, in Janesville, Wisconsin. Russ grew up in Janesville, and after high school he joined the Air Force on May 1, 1958, serving as an aircraft mechanic until June 12, 1962. He then worked at Parker Pen in Janesville for a time, where he met his future wife, Avis. After marrying Avis Mason in April 1964, Russ worked for Gillman Manufacturing for a time, then began a career at Dana until its closing in 1980. In 1981, Russ started working … Read more
Marcia Zingg, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, at the age of 75. Marcia will be remembered for her unwavering love, remarkable strength, generous spirit, and lifelong devotion to her family. She shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Jeffrey Zingg, who considered her not only his wife but also his best friend, business partner, and the love of his life. Together, Marcia and Jeffrey built a successful life rooted in perseverance, hard work, laughter, and love. As entrepreneurs in Whitewater, Wisconsin, they owned and managed new car franchises and … Read more
Amanda Jean Hunter was born to Ralph and Malinda (Thomas) Hunter of Whitewater, Wisconsin, on October 6, 1976. She passed away on August 4, in Fort Worth, Texas, where she lived with her family. Amanda passed peacefully in the hospital, surrounded by her loved ones. Amanda was a kind-hearted free spirit with an unmistakable hippie warmth. Generosity, spontaneity, a quick wit, a macabre sense of humor, and an open heart were traits that she embraced. She was a tireless champion of those in need, an innate characteristic that became among the best of her qualities. She proved to be a … Read more
Ellen Eichmiller, 82, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Ellen was born on September 10, 1943, in Monroe, Wisconsin, to Chester “Guy” and Irene (née Holmen) Steig. She married the love of her life, Paul Eichmiller, on December 7, 1963, and together they made their home in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Ellen spent much of her working life as a secretary at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, where she formed many lasting friendships and memories. Ellen cherished her family and friends and treasured the time she spent with those closest to her. She was known for her love of … Read more
Janet Quinn, age 71, of Jefferson passed away on Thursday, August 20th. Janet was born on December 22nd, 1954 in St. Joseph, MI to Robert Mounsey and Edith Christison Mounsey. She was a granddaughter to Herbert Bragg Mounsey, Charlotte Mounsey, and Ester Christison West. She married Michael Durden in 1979 and later married Eury Quinn Jr. (J.R.) in 1988. Janet grew up in Benton Harbor, MI, and subsequently lived in New York and Arkansas before moving to Wisconsin in 2016. She was a dedicated caregiver to her disabled Mother, and worked as a custodian for various employers over the years. … Read more
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