Good morning, La Crosse.

At Logan High School on April 5, Rotary clubs, community businesses, and Interact clubs from seven area schools gathered to collect food donations and package over 80,000 meals for shipment to Honduras.

The meals will leave La Crosse next week by boat and reach their destination in six to eight weeks—while local donations are sorted by the Hunger Task Force for nearby food pantries.

Local WWII veteran Bob Witt celebrated his 100th birthday Sunday at Benedictine Living Center with his family and friends.

He served in the Navy during World War II and earned the Victory Ribbon — along with the American Area Ribbon — and advised keeping active and avoiding smoking.

The La Crosse County Dairy Breakfast returns on Saturday, June 14 from 6-11 a.m. at the La Crosse Interstate Fairgrounds in West Salem — the event is run by the St. Joseph’s Ridge Lions to honor Wisconsin’s dairy industry, and tickets will be available in May at River Bank locations and on the day of the event.

A late-night house fire on La Crosse's south side on Saturday killed a pet after a neighbor called 911 just after 11:00 p.m.—firefighters quickly contained the flames, the home suffered heavy damage, and the cause remains under investigation.

Highground Veterans Memorial Park held its first art workshop where locals made mixed-media canvases to honor loved ones — participants shared photos and family history.

The project will have another workshop on May 4 and show all work on September 21 for International Day of Peace.

The La Crosse Police Department promoted six officers to new roles this week and they were sworn in on Wednesday.

Captain Daniel Kloss became Assistant Chief after Jason Melby retired on March 31 (with over 20 years of experience) and Lt. Jon Wenger became captain while two sergeants and two others advanced (after serving between 10 and 23 years).

On November 8, 2024, UW-La Crosse professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky appeared on WIZM’s La Crosse Talk PM to report that international media—on CNN and Bloomberg—covered a state Supreme Court race with a $100 million stake that affected local election turnout.

He added that shifts in local voting were tied to Brad Schimel’s concession and Elon Musk’s unexpected role in the race.

Pizza, a movie and a message: FSPA hosts free Earth Day event

In recognition of Earth Day, the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration are hosting a free pizza and movie night on April 10 at the Rivoli Theatre. The evening begins at 5 p.m. with complimentary pizza, followed by a special screening of "The Letter: A Message for Our Earth" at 5:30 p.m. Registration required.

Author Talk with Nickolas Butler

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Pearl Street Books — Free event — Dive into a compelling discussion about love, redemption, and the passage of time with author Nickolas Butler.

Safe Families 4th Annual Spring Soiree

5-8 p.m. — Celebrations on the River — Entertainment included — Enjoy an evening of fabulous food, fantastic music, and support a worthy cause to keep families together.

Pushing the River: Author Conversation

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Pearl Street Books — Free entry — Explore the captivating stories and history of canoeing with author Frank Bures and paddling expert Judson Steinback.

Grit & Grain Market

10 AM – 2 PM — Pearl Street Brewery — Free entry — A vibrant makers market with local products, craft beer, and live music at a beloved brewery.

DEWALT Days 2025

9 a.m.-4 p.m. — Blain's Farm & Fleet — Free entry — Elevate your tool collection with expert advice and exclusive deals on DEWALT products.

Adam Greuel & The Space Burritos Live

8-11:30 p.m. — Popcorn Tavern — Refunds available up to 7 days prior — Experience a cosmic blend of country, blues, and rock n' roll with Adam Greuel & The Space Burritos.

Kentucky Derby Watch Party 2025

12-6 p.m. — The Charmant Hotel — Mint Juleps for charity — Celebrate the 151st Kentucky Derby with raffles, cocktails, and live race coverage.