Good morning, Eau Claire.

Xa Xiong, a 32-year-old man from St. Paul, Minnesota, was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in federal prison (with five years of supervised release) for distributing methamphetamine after pleading guilty on February 21.

Investigators linked him to meth found in a storage unit in Eau Claire and to sales made to an undercover officer in Menomonie.

Today, the Sawdust City Tattoo Invitational is at The Brewing Projekt where dozens of tattoo artists are offering work in styles such as Tebori tattooing — the event is hosted by Old North Tattoo.

It runs through the weekend with tattooing available from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. today and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Two students from South Middle School won first and second place in the State Civics Bee held in Madison — Leila C. won $1,000 and will move on to the National Civics Bee this fall while Zaina A. earned second place.

Eau Claire's planning commission will review three site plans for new housing developments Monday night — one proposal for a 41-unit apartment building on Bullis Farm Road that could start later this summer, another for a 20-unit townhome complex on Black Avenue that may begin this summer, and a 96-unit apartment complex on Prairie Lane with construction set to start next spring — with more details to follow.

State lawmakers this week introduced a bill to fund the $3.5 million effort to reopen the L.E.

Phillips Libertas Treatment Center in Chippewa Falls—designed to offer substance use disorder treatment for up to 50 men—by allocating $1 million from the state budget for Lutheran Social Services after last year's healthcare loss.

Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez joined nearly 900 local and state officials in signing a bipartisan letter today to oppose federal budget cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and other public services.

The letter warns that deep cuts at the federal level will force states to slash local programs — putting vulnerable groups at risk.

Residents planning summer beach visits in the Chippewa Valley have been warned by the Eau Claire City Health Department that bacteria from runoff and pet waste can cause illness and may force temporary beach closures if levels become unsafe.

Health officials advise swimmers to take good care—washing up after swimming and taking frequent breaks—to lower the risk of stomach problems and other symptoms.

Hundreds of youth football players gathered at Eau Claire Regis to run drills and catch passes from Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed after he drove three hours to FlexWork Sports’ camp—Aaron Jones will hold a similar camp on July 16th for those who missed out.

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.

Heather Shaw Live Comedy Show

7:30 p.m. — The Plus — $15 adv, $20 door — Enjoy a night of laughs with seasoned comic Heather Shaw, noted for her Jim Carrey resemblance and social media fame.

f-EAU-rth of July 5K

8 a.m. — Hibbard Lot — Registration fees apply — Celebrate Independence Day with a fun 5K run for runners, families, and their furry friends in Eau Claire.

Chippewa River Paddle

10 AM – 4 PM — Hobbs Landing — $75 — Paddle through the picturesque lower Chippewa River while learning about local conservation efforts.

Wisconsin Warrior Natural Classic Pro/Am

10 AM – 1 PM — Pablo Center at the Confluence — VIP $65, Adult GA $45, Kids under 15 $20 — Witness extraordinary transformations and dedication in the only Natural bodybuilding event in the area.