Wednesday, February 18th, 2026
Good morning, La Crosse. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of February.
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Researchers examine a troubling chapter in the city's past during Black History Month, reviewing claims that La Crosse once excluded Black residents and saw policies that led to a declining community. City leaders say owning this history is key to ensuring that past harm never repeats. News8000
- ➤ Families can enjoy live storytelling, music + magic at the Pump House this Saturday at 12:30 p.m. for kids ages 4 to 12 and others, with tickets priced at $10 for adults, $5 for children 5 to 12, and free for kids under 4. News8000
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ In January, La Crosse Regional Airport served 3,048 passengers, a small drop from December’s 3,189, while Allegiant Air began flights in February that are not yet reflected in the figures. Overall, 2025 saw 43,125 scheduled riders on commercial flights. WIZM
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Luke Willenbring, a young cancer patient, continues his studies at Coulee Region Virtual Academy while undergoing chemotherapy, showing he keeps pace with his classes despite his treatment. La Crosse Tribune
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The National Weather Service forecast shows spring flooding risk remains below normal in the Coulee Region due to low snowpack and dry soil moisture, although additional snow before the thaw could increase risk (the next update comes later this month). WIZM
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ La Crosse Fire Department will staff a dedicated ambulance 24/7 at Fire Station 1 on 5th & Market after a unanimous council vote last week; the new agreement with Tri-State Ambulance is set to generate $760,000 to cover overtime costs and boost recruitment. WIZM
- ➤ Wisconsin GOP leaders propose using the state's $2.5 billion surplus to send tax rebate checks to eligible taxpayers who filed in 2024 and owed money, with married couples receiving up to $1,000 and individuals up to $500 if the bill passes by Sept. 15. News8000
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Hovde Properties of Madison proposes a three-story, 61-unit apartment building at the former Schoep’s Ice Cream site near the Capital City Trail — a project that could add new rental options in the community. La Crosse Tribune
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ UW-La Crosse named defensive coordinator Michael Zweifel as its 15th head football coach, replacing Matt Janus. The Whitewater native was introduced at a news conference at 11 a.m. Tuesday in the Hetzel Fieldhouse. WIZM
-
Learn to Line Dance
3-4 p.m. — Robins Nest Bar & Grill — $10 — Step into fun with a lively line dancing session.
-
Children's Author Visit with Angela Dominguez
5:30-6:30 p.m. — La Crosse Public Library — Free entry — Engage in a lively discussion with author Angela Dominguez about her acclaimed children's books.
-
Willow Round Basketry Workshop with Clint Grabhorn
9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — People's Food Co-op — $40 materials fee plus sliding scale — Learn the art of willow basketry in this beginner-friendly, hands-on course.
-
Wingapalooza Fundraiser
12:30-3:00 p.m. — Radisson Hotel La Crosse — Support our community’s mission — Sample delicious chicken wings while contributing to leadership through education and connection.
-
Tea & Technology: Exploring Digital Resources
11 a.m. — La Crosse Public Library — Free entry — Discover new digital resources for learning and wellness with hot drinks and treats in a cozy setting.
-
Josh Turner Concert
7:00 – 8:30 PM — La Crosse Center — Ticket prices range from $57 to $137 — Experience a night of country music with Josh Turner live in concert.
-
Come from Away
Mar 13 – 29 — La Crosse Community Theatre — Tickets required — Experience the heartwarming true story of Gander, Newfoundland's unexpected hospitality.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The first step toward success is taken when you refuse to be a captive of the environment in which you first find yourself.
~ Mark Caine
About Good Day La Crosse
Welcome to the Good Day La Crosse, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the La Crosse, Wisconsin community. If you like the Good Day La Crosse, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in La Crosse.
Advertising Opportunities
Advertising with us will make sure you stay at the top of everyone's mind—in La Crosse and across Wisconsin. You can learn more here. We'll work together to build a custom plan to hit your goals this year.
Alternatively, you can submit events, announcements, real estate listings, and job postings. We'll include them in our newsletter on whichever dates you like.
Community, delivered
Our hyper-local media company activates communities through daily email newsletters that curate the most positive, impactful local news + events – all for free.
Subscribe to Good Day La Crosse
A free La Crosse community newsletter.
- Daily local news
- We curate the most positive, impactful local news + events.
- 6AM City
- A publication of 6AM City, the nation's leading local newsletter-first media network. Nominate your city.
© 6AM City Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy. Terms of Service. Questions? Contact us here
Sitemap: https://gooddaylacrosse.com/sitemap