Good morning, Eau Claire.

Reporter Elliot Adams rode in an F/A-18 Super Hornet — feeling strong forces during high-g maneuvers — as the Blue Angels get ready for the Chippewa Valley Air Show on June 28 and 29.

At the Chippewa Valley Air Show, local Dennis Beale, who has a fear of flying, rode on an F/A-18 Tuesday as the Blue Angels’ chosen Key Influencer rider—he hopes his flight motivates the youth served by his organization, Power of Perception, to overcome their own fears.

His group offers free opportunities for black and biracial children and marks this milestone as a step toward building confidence in the community.

For the second year, lactating dairy cattle must be tested for avian flu before fairs and the test results must be negative within ten days—ensuring the safety of animals and dairy products for the community.

Local organizations are offering free literacy programs to help about 15,000 adults in Eau Claire County who have difficulty reading and writing.

The programs include a summer reading challenge at the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library from June 2 to August 15 plus free English, workplace, and digital classes provided by Literacy Chippewa Valley at their office on W. Madison St. from Monday to Thursday between 8 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Governor Tony Evers visited Eau Claire to warn that the Child Care Counts program will expire in one week and may force local childcare providers to close amid rising costs and staffing shortages.

The program has provided $24 million since 2020 while 90% of Wisconsinites report that finding affordable childcare remains a major problem.

The Wisconsin State Patrol’s Air Support Unit will patrol Eau Claire County for traffic violations from the air on Thursday, June 26—this patrol is part of a weeklong effort that began today in Walworth County and will continue on into Douglas County on Friday.

On Tuesday, June 24, the Eau Claire Express traveled to La Crosse — facing the Northwoods-leading Loggers.

UW-Stout named Erin Sullivan as its new Director of Athletics and Recreation — and the Big Rivers Conference announced its girls soccer all-conference teams.

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.

Country Jam USA

July 16-19 — Country Jam USA Festival Grounds — Ticket options available — Experience euphoria with headliners Bailey Zimmerman, Cole Swindell, and Sam Hunt in an unforgettable country music weekend.

Country Jam USA - Wisconsin

3:30-5:30 AM — Country Jam, Eau Claire — Tickets start at $314 — Experience top country artists including Bailey Zimmerman and Chase Rice at this summer festival.

Country Jam USA - Wisconsin Featuring Cole Swindell, Dylan Scott, and Sara Evans

1-5:30 a.m. — Country Jam, Eau Claire, WI — Tickets starting at $314 — Enjoy an exciting night of country music with top artists in a vibrant atmosphere.

The Gilmore Family Band Live Show

7-10 p.m. — Fox Run Tavern — Cost info not specified — Experience the musical journey of Shannon and Jason Gilmore in a lively tavern setting.