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Local Waupaca News

Good News Waupaca 3.18.26

Good News Waupaca 3.18.26

The Waupaca Police Department reported a sex offender community notification for the city. Benjamin Kvistad, 51, will reside at 534 South Washington Street as of March 17th. Police say he is on lifetime supervision following a sexual assault conviction, with strict conditions including no contact with minors and GPS monitoring. Officials emphasize he is not wanted.  The purpose of this notification is to keep the community informed.
The Sheriff’s Office reported a busy response during Winter Storm Elsa from March 15th through the 17th. Deputies handled over 240 calls for service, more than 800 phone calls, and 3,300 radio transmissions. The storm also led to 64 crashes, 96 disabled vehicles, and over 40 ambulance calls. Officials say despite the heavy demand, crews remained active throughout the storm, keeping roads and residents as safe as possible.
The Waupaca Community Arts Board announced this week the return of Jazz and Cocktails 2026, set for May 29th through the 31st along the Chain O’ Lakes. The three-day festival will feature a full lineup of regional and award-winning jazz artists, including a Grammy-nominated performer, with music across multiple stages at the Indian Crossing Casino and area venues. Highlights include a Friday night jazz sit-in in Scandinavia and the popular, often sold-out Jazz Brunch Cruise on Sunday. Organizers say the event continues to grow as one of Waupaca’s signature summer attractions.  More details online at WaupacaArts.org.

Good News Waupaca 3.18.26

Good News Waupaca 3.18.26

Local Waupaca News

Local Waupaca News

The blue gym at the rec center remains closed as work progresses on the rec center expansion project. Crews will be doing work to cut various entry points between the current gym and expansion to allow for HVAC and other items to be joined between the two sections. It is anticipated the blue gym reopens by Monday, March 16.
Spring weight limit restrictions in Waupaca County are in effect now according to Highway Commissioner Casey Beyersdorf. The seasonal limits set a six-ton load for single axle vehicles and a ten-ton load for tandem axle vehicles. The restrictions will remain in place until highways firm up. Officials say the limits are necessary to protect county roads during the spring thaw. Permit forms, maps, and more information are available on the Waupaca County Highway Department website or by calling 715-258-7152.
Local creativity is on display at the Waupaca Area Public Library. The annual Youth Art Month exhibit continues featuring artwork from kindergarten through 12th grade students in the Waupaca School District. The exhibit celebrates student talent and highlights the importance of arts education in the community. Youth Art Month is on display in the library’s exhibit room through March twenty-eighth and is free to visit during regular library hours.

The Waupaca Arts Hub is hosting a special Spring Break event through the 13th, at its location on School Street. From noon until 5 p.m. each day, visitors can take part in hands-on art activities, including projects in the Create and Grow Hub or painting pottery. Admission to the Create and Grow Hub is three dollars per person, while pottery painting prices vary by piece. The Arts Hub says the event offers a chance for people of all ages to explore creativity during the school break.  Details online at Waupaca Arts Hub dot Org.
 
The Waupaca Area Public Library and Waupaca Parks and Recreation are hosting “Shamrock Shenanigans” through March 14th. Thirteen hidden shamrocks have been placed around Rotary Riverview Park, Serenity Park, and along the Challenge-the-Outdoors trail leading into Washington Street Park. Participants can explore the parks during the week, searching for the shamrocks and sharing photos of what they find on social media. Organizers say the activity is designed to encourage families to get outside and enjoy Waupaca’s parks during spring break.
 
The City of Waupaca is looking to fill several seasonal and part-time parks and recreation positions ahead of the summer season.  Openings include concession attendants at Swan Park, lifeguards and water safety instructors, parks crew members, sports umpires and referees, and youth program leaders. The city says the positions help support summer recreation programs and park activities across the community. More information is available on the employment page at cityofwaupaca.org