Good morning, Eau Claire.

Today, the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce launches the Courtesy Level Investor Program to support small businesses and start-ups with a no-cost entry for companies with five or fewer employees, restaurants and retailers.

CEO Dave Minor said the chamber will announce additional measures in the next 60 days — steps aimed at strengthening the local business community.

Reporters visited the underground tunnels at Banbury Place today and learned that the passageways once hosted tire production and later served as an ammunition factory during World War II—now largely unused, the area stirs local rumors of ghostly sightings.

The tunnels span a vast space that has seen many changes since the early 1900s.

The historic Schlegelmilch house in downtown Eau Claire has been turned into the Enchanted Order Escape Room for its annual fundraiser and will run from September 20 to November 2 at 517 S.

Farwell St. The game challenges groups of 4 to 12 players to solve spooky puzzles and the proceeds—25% of which support the Chippewa Valley Museum—help maintain the house and fund museum programs.

Xcel Energy is offering free home energy assessments for income-qualified Eau Claire residents starting this month with trained contractors using special equipment—blower doors and infrared cameras—to detect air leaks and insulation gaps.

Homeowners can also access rebates from Focus on Energy and the Federal IRA Home Rebate programs to help lower bills.

Eau Claire County has announced the final Clean Sweep event for 2025, where residents can drop off household hazardous waste at 5200 Ryder Road in Eau Claire on Saturday, Sept.

20 from 8 a.m.—noon. Items such as oil-based paints, thinners, corrosives, and pesticides must be in their original containers for proper disposal.

Jon Johnson began work as Eau Claire County Administrator Monday after being confirmed in July by the county board, taking over from Kathryn Schauf who retired then—he said he will review county budgets to boost efficiency and improve transparency in county departments.

Drivers in Eau Claire and Lake Hallie must adjust travel plans this week as U.S. 53 undergoes improvements starting Monday—ramp closures include a northbound ramp closed for up to five days and a southbound ramp closed for up to ten days.

Additional one-night closures are set for Sept. 8, today, Sept. 11, Sept. 12, and Sept. 13 with detours posted and work subject to weather.

Community Services Operations Manager Ty Fadness said nearly 50 bus stops in Eau Claire will soon get upgrades using about $350,000 in federal funds to add ADA accessible concrete pads and level approaches — work set to begin in the next few weeks to improve rider safety.

The UW-Eau Claire police department and the Eau Claire City-County Health Department installed a drug take-back box in the police lobby on Hilltop Circle to help students and community members safely dispose of unused medications—reducing the risk of accidental poisoning at home.

Signature Eau Claire Trolley Tour

6-7:30 p.m. — Volume One & The Local Store — Ticketed event — Experience a charming trolley ride through Eau Claire’s historic neighborhoods and scenic sites.

Stand-Up Comedy Night with James Stanley

7:00 PM — The Plus — $10 adv ($15 door) — Enjoy a night of laughter with rising star James Stanley, known for his sharp writing and impressive stage presence.

World of Pickleball Tournament in Eau Claire

9 AM – 12 PM — McDonough Park Pickleball Courts — $5,000 prize — Compete in Eau Claire's exciting pickleball tournament and connect with local players.

Gathering of the Waters Powwow

11 a.m. to 6 p.m. — Valley Sports Academy — Free entry — Celebrate Indigenous culture with drumming, dance specials, workshops, and food trucks.

Amy Grant Concert

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Pablo Center at the Confluence — Ticket Price TBA — Experience a legendary evening with Amy Grant as she performs her heartfelt songs from a career spanning four decades.

67th Annual Kiwanis Paul Bunyan Flapjack Feed

7 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Memorial High School — $10 Adults; $5 Children under 12; FREE for 3/under — Feast on flapjacks and support local youth programs while enjoying appearances by Paul Bunyan and the 'Pancake Man'.

S. Carey and John Raymond Live

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Pablo Center at the Confluence — Ticket price TBA — Experience the world premiere of 'Shadowlands' arrangements with jazz ensemble and distinguished alumni.

Moms Unhinged Standup Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Pablo Center at the Confluence — Ticket Price TBA — Enjoy a night filled with laughter as comedians tackle the ups and downs of motherhood and life.

Black Violin Performance

7:00 PM — Pablo Center at the Confluence — $27.03 - $186.81 — Enjoy an innovative blend of classical strings and modern beats with Black Violin.

HeartWorks World Headquarters Grand Opening

10:30 AM – 1:30 PM — HeartWorks World Headquarters — Free entry — Celebrate the opening of a new community-centric center focusing on innovative health solutions.