Friday, February 20th, 2026
Good morning, La Crosse. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Habitat for Humanity welcomed its newest local homeowners today at a community center (a milestone in affordable housing efforts) as new families received keys to their sustainable homes. The ceremony underscored the organization’s dedication to affordable living. News8000
- ➤ Downtown La Crosse parks reopened after months of closure, but no public plan to enhance safety has been released (officials are still finalizing details). News8000
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Francesca's, a 27-year-old boutique chain, is closing all stores nationwide (including its La Crosse mall location) as it opens a going-out-of-business sale offering big discounts; shoppers are urged to act quickly. La Crosse Tribune
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Wisconsin cheese makers have earned 7,600 gold awards since 1995 and are known as the gold standard — authentic Wisconsin cheese is verified by the Proudly Wisconsin Cheese label. News8000
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Local farm bankruptcies have increased as farmers face market pressures and tight credit, impacting agricultural operations. Community leaders are urging discussion on support to help affected farms. News8000
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ La Crosse Public Library is offering monthly drop-in sessions at the Harry J Olson Center to help seniors use their digital devices. Librarian Livi Hackbarth leads the program (using hands-on help) to close the digital divide. News8000
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The City of La Crosse closed Quarry Road from Milson Court to the Hixon Forest main trailhead for safety due to freeze/thaw issues, and it will reopen when conditions improve. Officials advise using sidewalks or paved trails until the unpaved road dries out & is safe for use. WIZM
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Yesterday, Wisconsin lawmakers passed a bipartisan measure to extend Medicaid coverage for low-income mothers to a full year after childbirth. Gov. Evers is expected to sign the bill next week, leaving Arkansas as the only state without expanded postpartum coverage. News8000
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Mayo Health Clinic System is set to demolish the Skemp Clinic Building at its La Crosse campus; this will be the third major demolition (since 2024) on site. La Crosse Tribune
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Learn to Line Dance
3-4 p.m. — Robins Nest Bar & Grill — $10 — Step into fun with a lively line dancing session.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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