Good morning, La Crosse.

Rotary Lights announced Tuesday its new leadership after Pat Stephens passed away; Scott Lundeen (a three-year consultant) will lead the organization while long-time volunteer Mike Diveley becomes board president to prepare for the holiday lights display launching Nov.

27.

News 8 hosted the 66th annual Honor Student Banquet at UWL yesterday to celebrate the top five percent of graduating classes from 11 area high schools.

Top students offered advice for incoming high schoolers while local sponsors, including Trust Point Wealth Management, Lynxx Networks, and La Crosse Builders Exchange, supported the event.

On Tuesday, Holmen voters approved a funding referendum that passed with 4041 yes votes to 2746 no to provide an extra $4.5 million per year for the next five years for school operations and security upgrades, including improved entrances and new camera systems.

Sparta voters rejected a $1.8M referendum meant to safeguard student programs and resources over three years.

Superintendent Sam Russ said the district, which has cut over 30 staff & made $3M in cuts since 2022, will face deeper budget reductions.

At a free Lunch and Learn event held Wednesday at Stoney Creek Inn in Onalaska, the League of Women Voters discussed ecological challenges facing the upper Mississippi River.

Dr. Eric Strauss of UWL explained how federal funding cuts could hamper research on local freshwater management.

The Iowa Department of Transportation suspended the Lansing ferry service Wednesday due to high winds affecting the river crossing.

Drivers must use alternative routes until the service resumes its normal schedule Thursday morning — conditions permitting.

In Tuesday’s school board election, newcomer Loretta Hass received 6,376 votes while board chair Deb Suchla lost by 34 votes; the three winning members will serve three-year terms on the nine-member board.

Fired Universities of Wisconsin president Jay Rothman told the AP (blindsided by his removal) that he is not angry and is unlikely to sue after a 30-minute closed-door board vote Tuesday night that provided no clear reason for his ouster.

Silent Sky

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Weber Center for the Performing Arts — Tickets required — Experience the inspiring true story of Henrietta Leavitt, a 19th-century astronomer challenging societal norms during a time of scientific discovery.

Commotion: Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute

7:30-10:00 p.m. — Viterbo University Fine Arts Center — $46 — Experience the electrifying sounds of Creedence Clearwater Revival as you travel back to the late '60s and early '70s.

OUT OF OUR MINDS CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES: The Music of Reena Esmail

3-5 p.m. — Viterbo University Nola Starling Recital Hall — Free entry — Immerse yourself in an enchanting concert featuring the compositions of Reena Esmail performed by talented musicians.

Family Fun Day at Myrick Park

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Myrick Park — Free entry — Enjoy a day of free activities including a bounce house, face painting, and a complimentary lunch.

NFAA Redding Style Warm-Up 3-D

April 25th & 26th — Blackhawk Archers of La Crosse Wisconsin, Inc. — Cost varies for membership — Join fellow archers for a fantastic 3D shooting experience at a top-notch facility.

First Fridays at the RAD

5-8 p.m. — Rivoli Arts District — Free entry — Explore over 20 artist studios and support local creativity in a vibrant community atmosphere.

Wisconsin Archery Alliance Field Archery Academy 2026

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Blackhawk Archers of La Crosse Wisconsin, Inc. — Lunch included — Learn field archery techniques from National Champion Rod Menzer in a scenic Wisconsin setting.

NFAA First Field Shoot by Blackhawk Archers

12:00-1:00 p.m. — Blackhawk Archers of La Crosse Wisconsin, Inc. — Registration fees apply — Compete in a thrilling archery event with a shotgun start.

30th Annual La Crosse Area Mayoral Prayer Breakfast

7:29-8:45am – The Radisson Center – Tickets required, $20 – This event brings the community together for a meaningful morning of honoring and praying for our local leaders, along with breakfast and a keynote speaker. Tickets are available only through April 30.

30th Annual La Crosse Area Mayoral Prayer Breakfast

7:29-8:45am – The Radisson Center – Tickets required, $20 – This event brings the community together for a meaningful morning of honoring and praying for our local leaders, along with breakfast and a keynote speaker. Tickets are available only through April 30.