Good morning, Eau Claire.

Eau Claire was named the best city to live in Wisconsin—ranking first in the state and #49 among 250 U.S. places by U.S. News and World Report.

City officials said the honor is expected to attract new residents and businesses while they work to provide more affordable housing amid continued growth.

For three months, Eau Claire Ambassadors have walked downtown picking up trash and helping 50-70 homeless people find resources each day.

The group works 12-hour days, 6 days a week under contract with Block By Block and the city and has also removed graffiti and cleaned public spaces to support local businesses.

Eau Claire police teamed up with local first grader Sebastian to share summer safety tips for kids.

In the first video of a three-part series, Officer Noah Young and Sebastian explain that children should tell 911 their address and phone number — future videos will be posted on the police Facebook page.

Monk's Bar & Grill announced Thursday that it will close its Eau Claire location on Monday, June 16th as staff thanked customers for nine years of service—its five other locations will remain open.

The closure ends a long-standing local dining tradition.

The Pablo Center at the Confluence has raised rental rates for local arts groups ahead of its new season, and groups like the Chippewa Valley Jazz Orchestra say the increased fees—up to 42% more per show—will take a larger share of their budgets compared to last year.

The center says the rate hike is needed to cover rising operating costs and keep the venue open despite past losses.

Today, the UW System Board of Regents approved three new majors at UW-Eau Claire—one in philosophy, politics and economics and two in the College of Business (digital marketing analytics and professional sales)—and recognized Chancellor James Schmidt for his 12 years of service.

The new programs will offer more career options for students and boost future enrollment.

Nearly 150 local golfers gathered yesterday for Junior Achievement's 29th Annual Golf Outing with community leaders and Packers legend Leroy Butler—raising funds for programs that teach students financial literacy.

Gov. Tony Evers signed a $331,036 contract with Thunder Road — starting Sunday at 6 p.m. crews will seal decks and pier columns on over 100 I-94 bridges in Jackson, Trempealeau, Eau Claire, Dunn and St. Croix counties to keep water and salt from causing damage; work will run nightly until late July with lane closures where needed.

Amanda Carrier is the new police chief at University of Wisconsin Eau Claire and she has pledged to keep the campus safe by listening to student and staff concerns.

She plans to add new programs such as a therapy dog unit (to start by this fall or next year) and will build on a long history of community safety.

Jade Nicole Jones EP Release Show

7-9 p.m. — The Plus — $10 suggested donation — Experience the emotional acoustic storytelling of Jade Nicole Jones alongside local talents in a cozy venue.

Stefan Geisinger Band Live Performance

4-7 p.m. — River Jams — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant mix of recognizable blues tunes and original songs from a talented local band.

Chippewa Valley FCA Junior Sports Camp

9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. — Fall Creek High School — $64 before June 2nd — Develop leadership skills and sports knowledge while learning about Jesus Christ.

Nick Foytik Band Performance

6:30 PM – 12:30 AM — Owen Park — Free entry — Experience an evening of soulful blues and rock from a talented Wisconsin musician.

ValleyKil and Dead Ambers Live

8 p.m. — The Plus — $5 — Enjoy a high energy rock show featuring local talents ValleyKil and Dead Ambers.

Summer Sunday Concert Series: Emily V Live at The Plus

7-8 p.m. — The Plus — By donation to artist — Enjoy a night of diverse musical performances by hospice music therapist Emily V on the outdoor patio.

Celebrate the 715 with Wisconsin Makers Market

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Eau Claire Expo Center — Free entry — Enjoy local creations, live music, and fun activities for all ages.

On-Site Tour of Sky Active Living

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Oakwood Hills - Sky Active Living — Free entry — Explore award-winning senior living with nutritious dining and engaging activities.

Blue Ox Music Festival 2025

11 AM – 5 PM — The Pines Music Park — Ticket info TBA — Enjoy cozy bluegrass vibes hosted by Pert Near Sandstone in a scenic setting.

Chippewa Valley Air Show

12-4:15 p.m. — Chippewa Valley Regional Airport — $12 adv, $15 door; FREE for children 6/under — Experience high-flying aerial performances featuring the Blue Angels and more.