Good morning, Eau Claire.

New estimates from the Wisconsin Department of Administration show that Chippewa Valley communities have grown fast since 2020—Altoona increased 18%, Eau Claire 6%, Chippewa Falls 3% and Lake Hallie 4%.

Local officials say that while growth boosts revenue, it also brings housing challenges for the future.

On Constitution Day, students and community members learned about James Madison’s role in shaping the American constitution at an event hosted by Menard’s Center for Constitutional Studies+Professor Eric Kasper said free pocket Constitutions were given out to help keep history alive and spur interest in public affairs.

Eau Claire Chamber will host the 2026 Wisconsin State Civics Bee Competition — with the city serving as center stage for the event as the National Civics Bee season begins.

Congressman Derrick Van Orden introduced a bill this week to stop federal funds for groups that support political violence and domestic terrorism — he said the measure follows remarks by Eau Claire council members about Charlie Kirk’s death.

Van Orden is seeking co-sponsors and warned that legal challenges are expected if the bill passes.

City Council President Emily Berge said Rep. Derrick Van Orden’s threat to withhold $2 million federal funds for the new PFAS removal facility will not change the funding already approved by Congress—she added that calls to fire Councilmen Joshua Miller and Aaron Brewster must follow proper election procedures and urged local leaders to unite amid political unrest. This response highlights the clear distinction between political debate and the city’s established government processes.

The 14th Annual Walk for a Cure will take place Saturday, September 20 in downtown Cadott during Booya Days festival.

The event starts at Citizens State Bank at 9 a.m.—participants will walk 2 miles with proceeds going to the American Cancer Society and hopes to exceed last year’s $2,500 raised.

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.

Once More, Autumn | Fawn Haus Live at The Venue

9:00-11:30 p.m. — The Plus — $5.00 Cover — Enjoy an evening of indie folk and alternative sounds from local bands rooted in Eau Claire.

Benjamin Hinz: Artist in Residence

9 PM - 12 AM — The Plus — $10 cover — Experience a unique blend of audio-visual performances showcasing local talent every Saturday in October.