Good morning, Eau Claire.

Volunteers are clearing brush and grooming snowmobile trails in Eau Claire, Chippewa, and Dunn Counties—seasonal hunting restrictions keep the trails closed for now, and residents can check Travel Wisconsin for updated conditions.

A $100,000 pledge from the Augusta Area Foundation and community donors will support the Eau Claire Family Resource Center’s Imagination Fund campaign to boost local family services.

On Monday, the USDA announced a $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance Plan to help Wisconsin farmers manage market disruptions from trade wars and past policies.

Farm groups and experts note a recent deal with China now boosts soybean sales — they urge passing a stable farm bill for long-term relief.

The Wisconsin Hospital Association released its 2025 Community Benefits Report on Thursday, showing that hospitals provided $2.2 billion in benefits in 2024 – including $220 million in charity care and $381 million in health education, with the Chippewa Valley receiving $56 million. Rising costs and staffing shortages continue to strain finances.

Discount Tires in Eau Claire advises drivers to check tire pressure monthly, rotate tires, and inspect wiper blades and fluid as winter nears — with Store Manager Jeff Stubbs recommending winter tires for long trips if planning longer drives.

Prep girls basketball games from Dec.

11 saw Regis play Elk Mound in a Cloverbelt matchup while McDonell hosted Bloomer, North faced Superior, Memorial traveled to New Richmond, and Chippewa Falls battled Wausau West; Memorial boys hosted New Richmond.

Area hockey teams started conference play on Thursday, Dec.

11 with local matchups. Eau Claire Memorial faced River Falls while Chippewa Falls hosted Hudson, and the ECA Stars won in girls hockey against the Coulee Region Cyclones.

Blue Violin Candlelight Christmas Extravaganza

7-8:30 p.m. — Pablo Center at the Confluence — Price TBA — Experience the joy of the season with Blue Violin's spectacular Candlelight Christmas concert.

Ben Katzner Live Comedy Show

7-9 p.m. — The Plus — $15 adv, $20 door — Experience the unique humor and storytelling of comedian Ben Katzner.

Lindsey Stirling's Snow Waltz Tour

8-10 p.m. — Sonnentag Complex — $49.50+ — Experience a high-energy celebration with a blend of virtuosic violin, dance, and holiday favorites.

Sunday Funday – Late-Night Board Games

8:30-11 p.m. — The Plus — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxed evening with a vast library of board games and themed activities.