Good morning, Eau Claire.

Feed My People calls on Eau Claire neighbors during Hunger Action Month to donate or volunteer to fight food insecurity.

The food bank started the month with a $25,000 donation and saw 11,000 first-time visits, as it seeks $297,750 to keep up operations.

Local coffee group Tuesday Kaffee Klatsch launches Share the Warmth blanket drive to help ECASD students lacking blankets; collection bins are set up at several Eau Claire locations such as Spirit Lutheran (1310 Main Street) and Window World (5704 Arndt Lane).

School buses have returned this week as officers remind drivers to keep 20 feet away from buses with flashing red lights (this rule helps keep students safe when boarding and disembarking).

Chancellor Edwin Martini started his role at UW-Eau Claire on July 1 and is settling into the busy school season while building new community ties.

He spoke about plans to strengthen academic programs & enhance key campus facilities, including the science center and upcoming football home opener at Carson Park.

Governor Tony Evers visited South Middle School on Friday to meet with students and teachers and highlighted his administration’s school funding record, including nearly $1.4 billion for K-12 and special education—the largest increase in that rate.

The Eau Claire County Health Department closed Lake Altoona Beach today after tests found algae toxins that can harm people and animals. (A countywide beach advisory is also in effect this weekend.)

Ferguson's Orchards opened on Aug.

15 for fall family fun and food featuring apple and pumpkin picking with wagon rides and treats at its Eau Claire location (6470 Balsam Road). The orchard operates through Nov. 1, Monday–Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Conference 8-player football begins today when second-ranked Owen-Withee hosts first-ranked Gilman, with additional contests including Cornell vs. Athens and 11-player matchups scheduled later in the day.

In week 3 of the prep football season, conference matchups unfolded—Cardinals hosted Veterans Night in Chippewa Falls while Eau Claire Memorial and Eau Claire North lost key games.

Hudson stayed unbeaten as Mondovi rallied for a win, setting the stage for future contests.