Good morning, Waukesha.

On Wednesday, May 13, The Women's Center in Waukesha received unwanted donations of soiled clothing and damp towels—a rising trend that diverts staff from focusing on services for women escaping abuse.

The Women's Center in Waukesha received unwanted donations on Friday, May 15, as part of a rising trend the nonprofit is trying to stop.

Brian Baumler retired on May 1 after a 51-year career with Packerland Rent-A-Mat where he started as a carpet cleaner and eventually became customer service manager; he made a delivery on his last day.

He now plans to spend time with his family (and travel and work on personal projects).

The Mukwonago Community Library hosts its first-ever Book Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Washington Avenue Park, where local readers can meet authors, attend panels, browse books and join a raffle for prizes.

A new outdoor music festival featuring house and electronic music is set to debut on June 13 from 2:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Frame Park Amphitheater along the Fox River, with seven DJs, food trucks + vendors and preparty + afterparty at BBs on Main.

Superintendent Jim Sebert said the Optimizing Our Future plan is on track (the plan includes closing Bethesda, Hawthorne and the former Whittier schools and moving the K-8 STEM School to Horning Middle School) as the district prepares for changes by September.

Carroll University received a $2 million state grant to complete its College of Health Sciences building and expand health programs for students and local care.

The renovated facility is expected to be finished in August (supporting clinical services for the community).

On Monday, May 11, the Menomonee Falls School Board reviewed its plan to balance the 2026–27 budget after closing a $3.9M gap with $2.1M in spending cuts and $1.8M in one-time funds — officials said challenges remain due to declining enrollment, rising costs and limited state aid.

On Wednesday, the Waukesha Board of Education approved a governance resolution that clarifies board authority, confidentiality, and conduct expectations during meetings.

Board President Kelly Piacsek said the resolution reinforces existing bylaws while board member Diane Voit called for further review.

Students from Brookfield East and Wauwatosa West teamed with Froedtert Hospital and the Medical College of Wisconsin today to teach families about the need for a medical power of attorney, as nearly 80% of Wisconsin adults lack one.

Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival

May 23-24 — Waukesha County Expo Center — Tickets required — Indulge in delicious food truck offerings paired with a variety of craft beers at this lively festival.

Redeemer Tea & Talk

8 p.m. — Rose Glen Elementary School — Fundraising event — Enjoy excellent tea, food, and a short talk while supporting the community.

Waukesha’s Friday Night Live

6:30–9:00 p.m. — Downtown Transit Center, Waukesha, WI — Free entry — Experience a lively street festival with music and fun for the whole family.

Art in Nature Workshop

9-10 a.m. — Retzer Nature Center — $8 per child; adults free — Explore and create art inspired by the natural beauty around you.

GuitarTown Music Festival

12-8 p.m. — Cutler Park — Free entry — Experience a day-long musical celebration in downtown Waukesha transforming into GuitarTown.