Good morning, Eau Claire.

Feed My People Food Bank began silent auction bidding ahead of its largest annual fundraiser, Empty Bowls, set for May 15.

The auction accepts bids on items such as local art and household packages — and the board will match donations up to $5,000 to help local families facing hunger.

On Friday, more than 130 students from seven local high schools visited Miron Construction in Lake Hallie for its third annual construction careers showcase event.

Andrew Daniels said the hands-on practice with operating heavy machinery, masonry, robotics and virtual construction aimed to spark interest in the trades—Miron Construction also offered a youth apprenticeship program.

The Wisconsin DNR warns that fire danger stays high this weekend as Eau Claire and nearby counties face severe risk due to low humidity, and Osseo Fire Chief Nels Gunderson urges residents to avoid burning.

Burning permits will not be issued until rain returns—prompting extra caution in affected areas.

Starting Monday, May 19, more than 8 miles of WIS 93 between Eleva and Eau Claire in Pleasant Valley will close for summer construction — work to replace creek crossings, repave the highway, widen shoulders, and add rumble strips at a cost of $7.7 million.

Traffic from Eleva will be rerouted west on Highway 10 and north on Highway 37 while officials expect the project to finish by late September.

Lawmakers met on May 9 to discuss proposed Medicaid cuts, noting that more than one million people rely on the program, including nearly 150,000 seniors, half a million children and 187,000 people with disabilities.

Congressman Derrick Van Orden introduced a resolution to protect funding for vulnerable groups — a measure aimed at stopping future state spending cuts.

A local official warns that a planned cut to the Essential Air Service program+ which funds flights at smaller airports may leave Chippewa Valley airports with limited service+ in the near future.

Blugold Real Estate bought the former Sacred Heart Hospital building and transferred it to BHEI, Inc. on Friday.

Curt Krizan said the firm is considering several options for the 600,000 square foot property — which has lain empty since its closure in March 2024 and sits on 27 acres next to UW-Eau Claire — and will announce its plans in the coming months.

Dixon's Mother's Day Brunch

11:00 AM — Dixon's Autumn Harvest Winery and Orchard — Tickets selling fast — Celebrate Mom with a delightful buffet and live music in a charming winery setting.

Cathy Reitz & 7 Swing Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — 2 Roots Art & Wine Gallery — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxing evening with Cathy Reitz and the band featuring a blend of vocals and horns.

The Beach Boys Concert

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Pablo Center at the Confluence — $83.59 - $138.60 — Experience surf rock legends Mike Love and Bruce Johnson performing classic hits from their 6+ decades of music.

1st Annual Chippewa Valley Dementia Conference

8 a.m.-4 p.m. — The Florian Gardens Conference Center — $25 // $50 with CEUs — Explore critical resources and presentations on dementia care and support.

Abstract Watercolor Class

6-8 p.m. — Decadent Gifts & Gallery — $45+ — Explore abstract watercolor techniques with a renowned artist and create a unique composition.

Pint-Sized Concert with Two High Strung

7-8 p.m. — The Brewing Projekt — Free entry — Enjoy local music, craft brews, and community spirit with Two High Strung.

Higher Ground Wrestling: The Future Clash Tournament

7:00 PM — The Plus — $15-$25 — Witness the thrilling showdown for the Future Clash Championship as Matt Honey defends his title against emerging challengers.

Clovers Daughter Concert

7:00 PM — The Plus — Free entry — Experience the heartfelt indie sounds of Noor Shami, a rising American Palestinian singer-songwriter.

One Night in Memphis

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Pablo Center at the Confluence — $41 - $62 — Experience a dynamic tribute to rock legends with performances from cast members of 'Million Dollar Quartet.'

Andy Immerman Live Performance

9 PM - 1 AM — The 410 Bar — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an evening of unique sounds blending organic and synthesized music from Eau Claire's own Andy Immerman.