Good morning, Eau Claire.

Feed My People Food Bank is preparing for a big increase in demand as the federal shutdown continues and FoodShare funding is set to expire on November 1.

Executive Director Padraig Gallagher said the food bank has ordered more food and converted a cooler into a freezer—helping nearly 46,000 people across 14 counties while urging local residents to volunteer, donate, or contact their elected officials.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Greater Chippewa Valley is asking for community support after a significant reduction in government funding left a critical gap in resources.

The group says this shortfall puts safe, enriching spaces for local youth at risk.

The Chippewa Valley will host trick-or-treat events with Downtown Eau Claire on Saturday, October 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Downtown Menomonie on Thursday, October 30 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Downtown Chippewa Falls on Friday, October 31 with two sessions from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., while other events run in Menomonie, Elk Mound, Eau Claire and Altoona from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 or 7:30 p.m.

The 26th annual Chippewa Valley Book Festival is running through Saturday at the L.E.

Phillips Memorial Public Library where authors give presentations and hundreds of books are available for sale — the event is free for all readers in Eau Claire. Local book lovers have a chance to explore many genres and discover new favorites during the festival.

Universities of Wisconsin reported record freshman enrollment growth as President Jay Rothman announced that Wisconsin-resident new freshmen increased by 5.5% or 1033 students, marking the first time since 2010 that enrollment grew three years in a row—seven universities saw gains over 9%. Final figures showed a 7.6% drop in international enrollment—each campus released its fall numbers.

The state moratorium on utility disconnections will begin November 1 and run until April 15—during this period, energy providers cannot cut off service for nonpayment while customers are urged to contact Xcel Energy if they need help managing their bills.

The company provides online resources with payment assistance and energy-saving tips to support residents.

At its regular board meeting on Monday (October 27th), the Chippewa Valley Technical College District Board will set the tax rate for fiscal year 2025-2026 at slightly less than 64 cents per $1,000.

The board will also vote on a tax levy increase (from $27,914,925 to $29,307,087) as rising costs and higher property values drive the change.

The City of Sparta and Mayo Clinic Health System broke ground on an expansion for Sparta Hospital that will add 10 inpatient rooms, more staff and local services like infusion and inpatient pharmacy so patients can get treatments nearby.

Mayor Kevin Riley said the project is part of a city resurgence and will be complete in spring 2027.

The Eau Claire Curling Club will host its annual Learn to Curl day on Saturday, October 25 with two sessions: 1 to 3 p.m. + 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., where club members will teach sliding, sweeping and throwing techniques and provide all needed equipment.

Participants must dress warmly and wear clean rubber-soled shoes on the ice for safety.

UW-River Falls Falcons vs. UW-Eau Claire Blugolds Football

12-5 p.m. — Carson Park — Ticket prices may vary — Experience an exciting football matchup with pre-game festivities and a concert.

Vitamin String Quartet Concert

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Pablo Center at the Confluence — $27.03 - $65.26 — Experience the classical crossover magic of Vitamin String Quartet, known for their enchanting covers.

2025 FEED Summit

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — The Lismore Hotel Eau Claire — Early Bird Registration available — Engage in business workshops, networking, and explore local food businesses in scenic Eau Claire.

Saving Abel Live Concert

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Pablo Center at the Confluence — $12 - $47 — Experience explosive Southern rock with hard-hitting anthems and raw emotion.

Halloween Extravaganza at Mabel Tainter Theater

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Historic Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts — Ticket prices vary — A spooky celebration featuring a costume contest, new music arrangements, and interactive games.

The Over Unders Live at Graham Jams

7-11 p.m. — Leona's Pizzeria — No cover charge — Experience the energetic alt-rock vibe of The Over Unders, a local duo from Eau Claire.

Sesame Street Live - Elmo and Friends Say Hello

6:00 PM to 7:30 PM — The Sonnentag — $45+ — Celebrate the magic of Sesame Street with Elmo, Abby Cadabby, and Cookie Monster in Eau Claire.

Blugold Marching Band Performance

7-9 p.m. — The Sonnentag — Free entry — Experience a lively performance featuring the Blugold Marching Band with a dress rehearsal and dinner beforehand.

First Fridays Faculty Recital Series: Under the Influence

7:30 p.m. — Pablo Center at the Confluence — $5-$15 — Experience an evening of chamber music inspired by diverse composers performed by UW-Eau Claire's talented faculty.

11th Annual Gatsby's Gala

7:00 PM — W.R. Davies Student Center — $20 students, $35 GA, $150-$250 VIP — Experience the allure of the roaring 20s with big bands and vintage ballroom decor while supporting jazz studies scholarships.