Good morning, Eau Claire.

In Eau Claire, Fourth of July events begin at 6 p.m. with food trucks along the Chippewa River Trail and a ribbon-cutting at Cannery Park, building to fireworks at 10:05 p.m.—even as rain is forecast; similar celebrations for America's 250th birthday are planned across the Chippewa Valley.

Say Yes Mission Hub in Eau Claire served over 140 people last Monday during the heat wave and continues to offer meals, clothing, and a cool refuge today from 2 to 6:30 p.m. while urging community support for its food supplies — a growing challenge as demand exceeds planned numbers.

For 35 years, the Nelson family has run 15 fireworks tents across the Chippewa Valley in Eau Claire as they gear up for Fourth of July celebrations this weekend.

They urge safe use & adherence to local fireworks rules.

Dr. Edwin 'Ed' Martini started his role as the new UWEC chancellor this week after his April appointment, and he plans to build on the university's success.

He is preparing for a Science and Health Sciences Building opening next year plus a new partnership with the 900 District in the former Sacred Heart Hospital.

State Patrol warns of road closures and lane reductions on I-94 near Eau Claire, Highway 85 in Dunn, and other routes ahead of July 4 travel.

Traffic will peak today 2–6 p.m., Friday 12–7 p.m., and Sunday 12–6 p.m., so plan extra time.

Wisconsin has extended Medicaid postpartum care through a new law effective July 1 that now offers a 12-month period of coverage for more than 16,000 new mothers.

Coverage includes treatment for depression, chronic conditions and other services until a baby’s first birthday.

Yesterday, the Eau Claire Express hosted Waterloo at Carson Park in rainy conditions.

The 19U team stayed unbeaten against Holmen — while the 17U squad competed against Hudson.

Sunday Funday: Late-Night Board Games

9 p.m. — The Plus — Free entry — Engage in late-night board games with a vast library and friendly game demos.

Geoff Tate Live Comedy Show

7:30 p.m. — The Plus — $10 adv, $15 door — Experience the witty storytelling of Geoff Tate, a well-known comic with a plethora of podcast and festival appearances.

Ride Across Wisconsin

Ride Across Wisconsin — All day — Phoenix Park — Registration on website — A scenic cycling event with distances of 60, 100, and 175 miles through Chippewa Valley.

Mission Drive Street Party

4-8 p.m. — Basketball Court - North River Fronts — Bring your dish to pass — Enjoy great music, food, and community connections at the annual street party.

Country Jam USA - Day 2

12:00–22:00 — Country Jam USA Festival Grounds — Entry fee varies — Experience an iconic country music festival featuring top artists.

Country Jam USA - Day 3

12:00 PM – 11:59 PM — Country Jam USA Festival Grounds — Check event site for ticket details — Experience a day with the Texan country sound of Braxton Keith at this lively festival.

Sunday Funday: Late-Night Board Games

9 p.m. — The Plus — Free entry — Dive into a diverse board game library with demos, competitions, and prizes for all ages.

Intaglio Collagraph Print Making Workshop

10:00 AM to 2:00 PM — Decadent Gifts & Gallery — $27.38 — Explore textures and patterns in this hands-on printmaking workshop with all materials provided.

Sunday Funday: Late-Night Board Games

9 p.m. — The Plus — Free entry — Gather for an evening of fun with a vast library of board games and interactive gameplay.