Good morning, Eau Claire.

John Cerney, a nationally known artist from California, is painting a roadside mural at Anthony Acres Charter School off Highway 37 that shows a giant farmer’s daughter with local details like a Holstein cow and a ruffed grouse on the weather vane.

The work will be finished by Thursday afternoon after students helped dig and pour concrete for its base — the installation aims to attract the attention of passing drivers.

Today, UW-Eau Claire’s Blugold Marching Band prepares for a century celebration by performing in the homecoming parade on Saturday to entertain football fans.

The 400-member band aims to build community ties and inspire high school recruitment through a special exhibition — showcasing a long tradition.

Local education leaders met at Memorial High School to discuss if changes to FAFSA will impact student aid in the future—University of Wisconsin president Jay Rothman said there are no expected federal aid cuts as the Senate and House continue to support funding, noting UW Schools received $1.5 billion last year.

UW-Eau Claire staff and students celebrated 100 years of homecoming traditions with a special exhibit that displays historic uniforms and a championship trophy — artifacts that show the school’s evolving spirit.

The display features archived photos, video clips accessed by a QR code, and nods to past bonfire traditions — a long-held custom that honors Blugold pride.

Local and state education leaders talked on Tuesday about the importance of submitting FAFSA forms as applications opened—emphasizing financial aid access for students and families.

The Universities of Wisconsin System is proposing a policy that will let general education credits transfer among schools and could change how UW-Eau Claire operates—its Board of Regents will review the proposal in November and, if approved in December, it will take effect for the 2026 school year. Mary Hoffman said the change is expected to make student transfers smoother.

The city of Eau Claire enacted its new Land Development Ordinance today, modernizing the zoning code last updated in 1990 by allowing for smaller lot sizes, reduced setbacks, and increased housing diversity—including incentives for affordable housing.

The ordinance also introduces quality-of-life measures such as tree preservation and building design standards—aiming to boost compact development and social gathering spaces.

Klein Hall veterans home in Chippewa Falls closed on September 12 when its last resident left due to a lack of state funding, leaving veterans to travel to the only other facility in Union Grove—a four-hour drive away.

State lawmakers are working on bipartisan funding bills and if approved a new property will open as a replacement in November 2026.

On Tuesday, September 30, prep volleyball continued as Immanuel hosted Blair-Taylor while Regis battled Thorp, McDonell faced Elk Mound, Colby took on Owen-Withee, and Arcadia faced West Salem.

Meanwhile, girls tennis athletes competed in Big Rivers and Middle Border conference tournaments—boys soccer saw Eau Claire North host Superior and Altoona face Somerset.

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.

Technique Tuesday - Jewelry Classes

6-8 p.m. — Decadent Gifts & Gallery — $40 per session — Explore jewelry making techniques in a supportive, creative environment.

Mel Brooks' Young Frankenstein (West End Version)

Multiple shows — Pablo Center at the Confluence — Tickets available online — Experience the hilarious monster musical comedy from the creators of The Producers.

Benjamin Hinz: Artist in Residence

9 PM – 12 AM — The Plus — $10 cover — Experience the kickoff of an innovative artist residency with live performances every Saturday in October.

Beatles vs Stones - A Musical Showdown

7:30-9 p.m. — Pablo Center at the Confluence — Ticket Price Online — Witness an on-stage mash-up duel featuring tribute bands Abbey Road and Satisfaction as they determine the greatest British rock band.