Good morning, Waukesha.

The plastic great horned owl that watched over Mapleway Bowl’s parking lot has been seen near Kwik Trip on Highway 16, and owner Joel Maerder is happy to welcome it back (its decades-long presence has brightened the community).

A new education ambassador animal joined Wildlife In Need Center—a striped skunk—and the center is asking residents to name it through a fundraising vote.

Community members can choose from three finalist names—Archie, Forest, and Ranger—with voting closing Aug. 21 at 11:59 p.m.

John Ruf, a Paralympic medalist and sailing advocate, died on July 8 at his home by Pewaukee Lake after decades of health challenges; his funeral is set for Sept.

4 at Galilee Lutheran Church. He is remembered for steering community projects and inspiring others with his passion.

Arrowhead Union High School District will survey residents in September on a $79 million referendum that would consolidate operations at North Campus & phase out open enrollment, a move aimed at cutting construction costs by reducing capacity for nonresident students.

Dousman Elementary installed a colorful pathway and a three-level outdoor amphitheater in its outdoor classroom to honor Austin Workman (who died in spring 2025), a devoted supporter of the school.

More outdoor learning features, including a chalkboard and reading nooks, are coming soon.

Catholic Memorial High School President Donna Bembenek is preparing to retire after nine years in leadership as her Board of Directors announced a national search for her successor — she will serve until a new president is selected by the first quarter of next year.

The Milwaukee Timberwolves, a volunteer-run hockey team in the Great Lakes Hockey League, will begin their season in October with an out-of-town game on Oct.

2 and a home opener on Nov. 7 (tickets cost around $10 for adults).