Good morning, Eau Claire.

L.E. Phillips arrived in the area around 1918 and became a local leader whose funding built key sites like the UW Science Hall and public library.

His name still appears on community landmarks across Eau Claire, reflecting his lasting impact on education and local development.

Residents can drop off toy donations at Hyvee until Dec.

22 — each toy is matched with a ham to help families in need this holiday season through a partnership among 715 Rentals/715 Excavating, Valley Sports Academy and Hyvee.

The Community Haven House-Day Resource Center will open at its new location, 1 Better Way, on December 29, with extended hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day to better serve neighbors experiencing homelessness.

A $50,000 Powerball ticket sold at the Kwik Trip on N.

Clairemont St. in Eau Claire matched four of five numbers plus the Powerball in Saturday’s drawing — marking the sixth largest prize in the game’s history amid a record run with seven $1 million wins.

Middle school students (grades 6 to 8) in Eau Claire can submit essays for the 2026 National Civics Bee state competition until Feb.

3, with the quiz event scheduled for May 9 at South Middle School. Winners will represent Wisconsin at the national competition in the fall.

A winning Powerball ticket purchased at Kwik Trip (2327 North Clairemont Street) brings $50K to a local buyer for Saturday's drawing by matching four numbers and the Powerball, and players have 180 days to claim the prize.

Eau Claire Transit announced that starting Jan.

1, 2026, children 18 and under (including high school students with IDs) will ride for free. A Northern Lite pilot through summer 2026 lets older youth ride alone while adults pay fares.

The Ho H-Eau Ho 5K & Kids Run at the Chippewa Valley Museum is rescheduled for Saturday, Dec.

20 at 9 a.m. to ensure runner safety amid dangerously cold temperatures — organizers welcome over 600 participants and families.

Eau Claire Memorial girls basketball defeated Mosinee on Monday, Dec.

15 after senior guard Lydia Paulmier hit a go-ahead 3-pointer in the final seconds; other prep contests featured boys hoops with Black River Falls versus Thorp and a shutout hockey win for Menomonie.

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.