Tuesday, May 13th, 2025
Good morning, Eau Claire. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 13th of May.
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Shane Helmbrecht, 53, accused of fatally shooting his neighbor in 2016, remains in custody at Eau Claire County Jail as his defense appeals a competency ruling—his arraignment is set for July 28 while courts process the case. News8000.com
- ➤ Shane Helmbrecht, age 53, appeared by video in court on May 12 for a hearing on a charge of intentionally killing his neighbor Jenn Ward—his arraignment is set for July 28 and he is ordered to live in a mental health facility as a competency appeal remains pending. WEAU
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ With summer ahead, local officials invite residents to sign up for email alerts that give beach water quality updates as the water is tested from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Beach status will be updated every Tuesday or whenever there is a change—alerts help keep everyone informed. WQOW
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The City of Eau Claire received a $1.68 million payment from 3M as the first installment of its class action settlement over PFAS contamination—total awards are expected to reach $9.4 million by 2033. The city is building a PFAS filtration facility to remove chemicals from its water and reactivate nearly half its wells near the airport. WQOW
- ➤ The Eau Claire County Parks and Forest Department said the state-funded ATV/UTV trails are in good condition and will open on Thursday, May 15—off trail riding is strictly prohibited. WEAU
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Marshfield Clinic Region of Sanford Health invested $700,000 in 31 communities to help tackle opioid and stimulant misuse — the donation through the Northwoods Coalition will support drug take-back events, community awareness campaigns and drug-checking technology. WIProud
- ➤ Families will have the chance to explore mental health services at the first Stronger Together Recovery and Mental Health Resource Fair on Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Eau Claire YMCA—featuring nearly 30 vendors, speakers sharing their recovery journeys, and a play area for kids—with the event offered free. WEAU
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Abstract Watercolor Class
6-8 p.m. — Decadent Gifts & Gallery — $45+ — Explore abstract watercolor techniques with a renowned artist and create a unique composition.
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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.
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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.
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Clovers Daughter Concert
7:00 PM — The Plus — Free entry — Experience the heartfelt indie sounds of Noor Shami, a rising American Palestinian singer-songwriter.
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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.'
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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.
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On-Site Tour of Oakwood Homes Apartments
9 AM - 7 PM — Oakwood Homes Apartments — Free entry — Explore senior living options and enjoy a guided tour at top-rated community.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Art is the lie that enables us to realize the truth.
~ Pablo Picasso
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