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Today is Tuesday, June 23, 2026
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Editor’s note: The following press release was issued by the State of Wisconsin Department of Revenue on August 24, 2023.
Whitewater Tax Preparer Charged with Tax Crimes Filed 340
False Returns
Mauricio Castaneda, a Whitewater tax preparer, was charged with theft, five counts of filing false Wisconsin income tax returns and five counts of filing false claims for credit. Castaneda was charged in Walworth County on August 21, 2023.
According to the criminal complaint, Castaneda allegedly filed returns for customers at El Nevado Taxes [239 E. Milwaukee St.] in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Some customers filed under Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) which are issued and used by individuals who are required to have a tax identification number but do not have a Social
Security number. Customers received refunds for Wisconsin income taxes withheld. Later, Castaneda allegedly filed fraudulent returns that used different identification numbers, but the customers’ same W-2 wage
statements that were previously used to receive refunds. Castaneda also allegedly added fictitious spouses and claimed credits to increase the tax refunds. Castaneda received the refund checks in the mail and deposited
them into his bank account. Castaneda allegedly filed 340 false returns attempting to defraud the state of Wisconsin of approximately $331,656.
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue prevented refunds from being issued for 307 fraudulent returns. However, Castaneda received refunds on 33 returns, for a loss of $33,356. If convicted on all counts, Castaneda may be imprisoned up to 70 years, face fines up to $125,000, or both, and
assessed the cost of prosecution. An assistant attorney general from the Criminal Litigation Unit in the Wisconsin Department of Justice is prosecuting the case following an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue Office of Criminal Investigation.
Castaneda is presumed innocent. An initial appearance is scheduled in Walworth County Circuit Court for September 19, 2023, at 1:15 p.m.
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue Office of Criminal Investigation investigates individuals and businesses suspected of committing tax crimes and seeks criminal prosecution for those crimes.
To report tax fraud, go to www.revenue.wi.gov and click the “Report tax fraud” link under Quick Links.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.
This is the last in our series of business transition photos taken by George Scharfenberg in the 1990’s and early 2000’s. In this case, it is the going out of business sale for the Gift Hutch in 2000.
Many retail businesses have come and gone in downtown Whitewater, but this gift store was one of the longest businesses of the 20th century. Helen Ridge established the store as Helen’s Gift Shop in 1962 and ran the business until 1973, when new owners purchased the business and renamed it the “Gift Hutch.” They operated the store until going out of business in 2000. That’s almost 40 years.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
(Photo from the George Scharfenberg collection, Whitewater Historical Society)
Whitewater’s CCS Disbands
After more than 50 years of worship, fellowship, and benevolence, the membership of Community of Christ the Servant (CCS) has voted to disband the congregation. The difficult decision followed the passing of Mike Obinger, who had served as the church’s pastor since November 1987.
Arising from the political turmoil of the time, the church was founded on October 3, 1971 as a new non-denominational Christian fellowship. It brought together people of many faiths, including Congregational, Quaker, Presbyterian, Methodist, Lutheran, Baptist and others.
Founding members sought a new type of church with less emphasis on fundamentalism and ritual and more emphasis on relating the ancient truths of Scripture and Sacrament to living in current times. Being a Christian community through fellowship, discussion, study, involvement, and benevolence was a hallmark of CCS throughout its history.
Community of Christ the Servant especially was dedicated to serving those in need. Its bylaws mandated that fully 25 percent of all church income be donated to well-vetted local, national and international causes. Over the past 52 years, countless organizations at all levels have benefited from CCS’s generosity. At their last meeting, members of CCS voted to disperse the church’s remaining assets to Bethel House, Whitewater Food Pantry, Whitewater Community Space, Salvation Army, Planned Parenthood, Habitat for Humanity, Heifer International, Doctors Without Borders, the UN’s International Children’s Fund, and the Carter Center.
Editor’s note: The above announcement was provided by Community of Christ the Servant. The image is of a CCS banner designed and made by CCS Quilters.
Wonderful Whitewater Estate Sale of Wally and Mary Goeglein by S&H Estate Sales & Service
Thu, Aug 24, 2023, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fri, Aug 25, 2023, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sat, Aug 26, 2023, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
256 S Cottage St., Whitewater
Wonderfully Clean and Neat Estate Sale! Two Story House., Two Car Garage, & Two Basements Even! And It’s All Packed Full!
Many additional photos may be viewed here.
A few items to note:
Indian Motorcycle Misc. Clothes/Hats/Jackets/Tailpipes/Parts/Decor/Etc.
Disney
Hallmark
Pandora
Amber Jewelry
Tempur-Pedic Adjustable Bed
Bobbleheads
Yard Tools
Power Tools
Garage Misc.
Grill
Kitchen/Bathroom Misc.
Furniture
Antique Telephones
Artwork
Terms & Conditions
S&H Estate Sales & Service Rules:
Please Park respectfully. Do NOT park in front of mailboxes or driveways. The side of the street in front of the house is NO Parking.
If you don’t feel good, we ask that you kindly refrain from coming to this sale. The safety of our customers and staff is our highest priority.
We will be abiding by our limited amount of people allowed in the house and garage at one time. (NO MORE THAN 20/30 AT A TIME). This is due to the size of the house and the amount of items in it. If you are waiting outside in line, we ask that you dress according to weather conditions. You may experience longer wait times (one person in = one person out, whether you came with another person or not). WE DO NOT DO LISTS!
Numbers will be out at 8 am on Thursday and Friday (We open at 9). First Come, First Served on Saturday. Please line up by the front door.
Please remember you are a guest in someone’s home. Please wipe your feet! No pets allowed (except for service animals). The old adage of “you break it, you buy it” will apply. Our staff is NOT able to lift/carry/haul your purchases, so PLEASE arrange for pick-up and help of whatever you plan on buying, especially large appliances and furniture. In fairness to all customers we will NOT give out price information in advance. The address will be published one day before the sale.
Terms and Conditions: Cash & Local Checks are accepted. A $30 charge will apply for NSF. Credit Cards will be accepted based on internet reception and a 3% fee will apply. (All Check transactions will require a signature & phone number.) Taxes are required to be collected at a 5.5% rate, per State law. S&H is Not Responsible for Accidents. All Items are Sold AS IS, NO REFUNDS/RETURNS/EXCHANGES. Please check your purchases thoroughly before buying. All Sales are FINAL. There will be a Limited Number of Pink Estate Sale signs located in the vicinity to direct you to this house.
Thank you for your understanding and patience. We are sorry for any inconvenience.
From the Whippet Athletics Facebook page: The Whippets started the season off with a big win in front of a great home crowd. Final score 26-14!! #1Family #Thestandard
From the Daily Jefferson County Union:
Nate Black leads Whitewater’s football team to 26-14 season-opening victory over Big Foot
WHITEWATER — Senior Nate Black scored three touchdowns as Whitewater’s football program ushered in the Samuel Bartlett era in style by earning a 26-14 home victory over Big Foot at WHS on Friday in nonconference play.
The win marks Whitewater’s first on its new turf playing field and the program’s first non-forfeit win since a season-opening home win over Big Foot in 2021.
“It was amazing and very special for the kids,” Bartlett said of the win. “With the turf field being relatively new, it’s their first win on that turf field at home. A lot of our guys feeling that victory broke down and were overcome with emotion because it was such a monumental moment for them.
“It was special. I told them to make sure they enjoy that first win because we are going to be working to get a lot more this year.”
At its August 14 meeting, the Whitewater Unified School District Board unanimously voted to rename the Whitewater High School auditorium after the late James Stewart.
Stewart served on the School Board for nearly 27 years, from 1981 to 2002 and again from 2016 until his passing on November 26, 2021. During his service to the district, he was board president and treasurer—each for six years—and vice president for two years.
“Jim was a dedicated public servant and a true champion for public education,” said WUSD Superintendent Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty. “His unwavering commitment to our district and his passion for education have shaped our educational community. The James M. Stewart Auditorium will serve as a tribute to his service and will carry on his legacy for many years to come.”
Stewart’s commitment to serving others extended well beyond his role on the Board of Education. Following his graduation from UW-Madison in 1959, he served in the military for 20 years, touring in France, Vietnam, and South Korea before moving to the ROTC program at UW-Whitewater. Additionally, he served the people of Wisconsin as state assemblyman for the 32nd district and the community of Whitewater as a member of the Common Council and the Whitewater Police and Fire Commission.
Stewart’s legacy also includes an instrumental role in founding the Whitewater Banner, an essential source of local news and information for the Whitewater community since its inception in 2006. The website has played a crucial role in connecting the community.
Stewart’s memory and service will remain an integral part of WUSD, and the James M. Stewart Auditorium will serve as an ongoing testament to his enduring legacy.
According to the National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan Weather Forecast Office: Heat index values are expected to be slightly lower, but still dangerous. Values of around 105 degrees are expected for southern and south central Wisconsin, with values around 100 degrees for central. An Excessive Heat Warning remains in effect for south central and southeastern Wisconsin.
The Whippet Volleyball Team hosted a quadrangular preseason event with Catholic Central, Stoughton, and Sun Prairie East on Tuesday, August 22.
After graduating 5 of the 6 members of the starting lineup from last season, the Whippets are young and looking for underclassmen to fill some openings on the roster. Preseason events like this are used to work various rosters and see how teams begin to play together. “I don’t look for dominating wins at this point, rather, I am working many different line ups and trying athletes in different spots to see who might be ready to lead the team in these positions.”
And the Whippets did just that. Facing Catholic Central first, the Whippets had a 3 set battle (19-25, 25-18 and 5-15). “From the scores alone, you can see our younger nature. We have moments of greatness and owning the court to moments of lapses in mental toughness and leadership.” In this match the Whippets were led in kills by Calli Grosinske with 10, Marina Linos in assists with 7, and Ella Spear with 5 digs.
Next the Whippets faced Stoughton (24-26, 12-25) and again held tight in sets, and costly errors affected the outcome. “Things we control, like serving, blocking errors, and stretches of unanswered points hurt us tonight. On the night we had over 20 service errors alone. We shore those things up, and we are a different squad.” Stat leaders included Calli Grosinske with 5 kills, Marina Linos with 8 assists, and Calli Grosinske with 5 digs.
The final team the Whippets faced was Sun Prairie East (8-25, 25-27). Stat leaders were Calli Grosinske with 5 kills, Falyn Krahn and Ella Spear with 8 digs apiece, Calli Grosinske with 5 assists, and Meg Roselle and Emmanuella Mbifi with 1 block apiece.
Now we get back in the gym and commit to getting better each play. As you can see by the inconsistent scores, we are young, and as we get back in the gym and work on the areas we need to, the sky’s the limit!
Article and Photo Submitted by Mary Kilar
Whitewater High School Head Volleyball Coach
mkilar@wwusd.org
Obituaries
Marion Jauch Burrows (Feb. 2, 1930 – June 5, 2026) Her sparkling eyes, warm laugh, and generous ways were gifts Marion brought into this world, touching family members and friends alike over the ninety-six years of her life. She was born and raised in Lombard, IL, and in the course of her life lived with her husband and growing family in Abilene, TX, St. David’s, PA, Arkadelphia, AR, Ada, OK, and Colorado Springs, CO, before settling in Whitewater, WI, in 1965. Generosity of heart, compassion toward those in need in and beyond her community, and an unwavering commitment to fairness … Read more
Patricia “Pat” Lynn Bailey, age 70, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026 with her daughter by her side. Pat was born February 21, 1956 in Ann Arbor, Michigan to John and Ruth (Hudock) Prentice. After a brief time in Ann Arbor, the Prentice family moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin, where Pat grew up as part of the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater community, where her father served as University Registrar. Pat attended the University School and later graduated from UW Whitewater with a degree in Elementary Education. Although she did not pursue teaching, she built a meaningful career in Human … Read more
Gemelino Paris Esperante, 83, long time resident of Whitewater, passed away on Thursday, June 4th, 2026. He was born on January 10, 1943, to his late father and mother, Evaristo and Carmen in Spain. In 1973 he moved to the United States as a sheep herder. On August 21, 1981, he was united in marriage to Cyndie Esperante in Colorado. Gemelino also worked in Mining and construction for many years. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, raising sheep and growing things in his garden, and flowers. He will be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife … Read more
Mary Ann Warner died peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Crestridge Assisted Living in Dodgeville. Her physical heart failed, but her actual, loving heart never did. Ann was born June 28, 1939 to Mary and Charles Kearns in Iowa. She moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin and graduated with many dear friends in the class of 1957. Ann married John Warner on September 19, 1959. They lived in Whitewater, Sturgis Michigan, and finally settled in Janesville where they built a beautiful life and raised their family. Together, they ran a business, traveled, played cards, and enjoyed their lives. When they became … Read more
Patricia Ann Jacobson (Bureau), age 81, of Whitewater, WI, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, WI. Born on September 2, 1944, in Marquette, MI, to the late Donald and Margaret Bureau, Pat grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She graduated from Graveraet High School, attended Michigan State University, and later earned her bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University. Pat dedicated her professional life to shaping young minds, working as an elementary and junior high school teacher in both Flint, MI, and Whitewater, WI. At the heart of Pat’s life was a beautiful, … Read more
In loving memory of Lois Lauritzen, age 92, who passed away on June 1, 2026 at Lakewood Memory Care in Brookfield. Lois led an active life full of devotion to family and friends. Born July 14th, 1933 in Silvis, IL, daughter of Harry and Elsie Wilson, she grew up in the Quad Cities with older brother Harry Wilson Jr. Lois graduated from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL with a degree in physical education. She met her husband Paul Lauritzen on the college tennis team. Their marriage on June 12th, 1955 lasted 59 years until Paul’s death on September 26th, … Read more
Donald Walter Triebold passed on to his eternal home on May 21, 2026. Don was born on April 23, 1935, in Evanston, IL, to the late Frederick W. and Mildred (nee Stecher) Triebold. Through his teen years, Don lived and worked on the family’s dairy farm, where he developed a life-long work ethic. His first eight years of education were in a one-room country schoolhouse, in which all eight grades were taught by one teacher. He graduated from Whitewater City High School in 1953 and then graduated from UW Whitewater in 1958 with a degree in Business Education. He continued his education, and earned a Master’s … Read more
William Kincaid Davis, age 84, passed away on Tuesday, May 19 at Agrace Hospice Center in Fitchburg. He was born on November 1, 1941, in Madison, Indiana, the second son of Salvation Army Officers Agnes (Dixon) and William C. Davis. He attended several schools in Indiana and Illinois, including University of Illinois Experimental High School (Champaign), and graduated from Galesburg High School in 1958. He earned his bachelor’s degree from UW-Eau Claire in 1964 and his master’s degree from UW-Whitewater in 1972. He had an expansive career in education, beginning as an English teacher in Whitehall, Thornton Township (IL) and … Read more
Magdalene “Maggie” Stetter (nee Fritz), 79, of Whitewater, Wisconsin passed from this life onto the next on Monday, May 4, 2026. She was born on January 16, 1947, to the late John and Mary (Presser) Fritz in St. Stefan, Austria. Maggie immigrated from Austria with her parents and brother, became a US citizen, and grew up and attended school in West Allis, WI and then graduated with a teaching degree from University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. Maggie served as a substitute, English, and German language teacher in the Whitewater, Elkhorn, Delavan, and Palmyra schools and at Divine Word Seminary. Maggie … Read more
Lawrence “Larry” C. Hartung, a proud Marine Veteran of the Vietnam War, and longtime resident of Fort Atkinson, WI, passed away peacefully at his home on May 1, 2026. Larry was born June 7th, 1949, to Levon and Charles Hartung in Chicago, IL. Larry enlisted in the US Marine Corps in 1968 and served 3 consecutive tours in the Vietnam War. During this time, he became pen pals with his future wife, Candy, via a connection through his father. In 1970, he came home on leave to marry Candy. They celebrated 55 years of marriage on October 31st, 2025. During … Read more
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