Good morning, Eau Claire.

Aurora Community Services celebrated 40 years—marking a milestone for community empowerment in the Chippewa Valley with a commemorative ribbon cutting hosted by the Menomonie Area Chamber and Visitor Center.

The nonprofit supports individuals with disabilities under its LIFE philosophy.

The Yard Container Park in Altoona is now operating summer hours starting April 23, with Thursday–Saturday hours from 11 AM to 7 PM and Sunday until 3 PM (Nene’s adds its full schedule from April 28).

The park received council-approved improvements for sidewalks, event tent, and roof repairs.

The Eau Claire City Council will vote Tuesday on a development agreement with ABF Ingredients for a new biomanufacturing facility in Gateway Northwest Industrial Park.

The project plans phased construction beginning in 2026 and may add up to 100 jobs and $270 million in investment (with an initial 22,000 sqft phase).

Adin Randall built local business and land deals, and his large statue stands in a small park near Water Street + where the park was named to honor his early impact.

His work continues to shape the community’s historic landscape.

Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co., a local staple for 150 years, has been named the presenting sponsor for Summer Jam 2026 — an annual event this summer reinforcing its commitment to Wisconsin brewing tradition.

On Thursday, all of western Wisconsin was under very high fire danger as responders at Augusta Ranger Station & local teams prepared for wildfires and the DNR suspended burning permits statewide.

Residents were urged to follow local guidelines and keep campfires attended.

Xylazine test strip kits are now available in the lobby of the county jail through a vending machine open 24 hours daily and free of charge + the machine also stocks Narcan, fentanyl test strips and sharps disposal to help reduce opioid risks.

Officials at the Eau Claire city and county Health Department report a rising trend in flu cases from wastewater tests and hospital data as only 32% of residents are vaccinated this season (Flu B is milder than Flu A).

They urge everyone to get a flu shot and wash hands.

The Eau Claire City-County Health Department will host Drug Take Back Day on Saturday at the Government Center, Altoona Police Department, and Fairchild Village Hall — offering residents curbside disposal for expired and unused medications.

According to the March report by the REALTORS® Association, home sales statewide increased 7% and median prices rose 6.5% to $330,000, with the West region seeing an 11.4% sales boost and a 7.4% price rise.

The report notes a tight market (3.3 months of inventory statewide).

More than 5,400 runners have registered for the Eau Claire Marathon scheduled for May 2-3, making it the largest yet.

The race weekend, which includes a 5K and a 10K, will cause road closures and support local business activity & boost economic activity in the Chippewa Valley.

Lanue - The 715 Series

7:15 p.m. — Pablo Center at the Confluence — $18.96 — Experience heartfelt songwriting and velvety vocals layered over rich synths and percussion.

Here We Grow Again 2026 Spring/Summer Sale

8 a.m.-1 p.m. — Hobbs Municipal Ice Center — Free admission — Discover the area's largest children's consignment sale with 400+ families offering gently used items and toys.

Conectando Dreamers 3 with Ross Mintzer

9-11:30 p.m. — The 410 Bar — $5 donation from each ticket — Experience an inspiring evening of electronic music while supporting youth music education.

Leadership in Peer Support Summit

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — The Lismore Hotel Eau Claire — Check website for details — A day of empowerment, learning, and networking for peer support leaders featuring keynote speaker Johanna Lohman.

CEDC 2026 Annual Meeting

7-9:30 a.m. — Eau Claire Event District — Free entry — Engage with local leaders and innovators to envision Eau Claire's future.

Mike Stanley Live Comedy Show

7:00 PM — The Plus — $10 adv, $15 door — Experience the wit and warmth of renowned comedian Mike Stanley in a night of unforgettable stand-up.

The 715 Hawaiian Shirt Hullabaloo

5-9 p.m. — The Brewing Projekt — Free entry — Kick off summer with drink specials and tropical vibes in your best Hawaiian shirt.

Wayne Manthey Drum Making Workshop

12-4 p.m. — Everest Collective — $160-$190 | Limited Registration — Create your own drum while building friendships and enjoying a unique storytelling experience.