Good morning, La Crosse.

A French Island resident, a retired army broadcast journalist, dedicated their career to serving local neighbors, as seen in an edited video published Aug.

31. Their ongoing commitment aims to strengthen community support in the area.

Food pantries are stepping in to help families meet meal costs as students head back to school this week.

The Hunger Task Force (serving rural areas like Sparta) is stockpiling kid-friendly food to support households amid rising living expenses.

Local organizers have planned a community day of action to spread overdose awareness.

The event will offer educational resources and outreach opportunities for residents — details on schedule and venue will be announced soon.

Local food pantries are gearing up for a surge in demand as the month draws to a close (they are increasing supplies and volunteer shifts to better serve community members).

Indie comedy Canoe Dig It? will screen in La Crosse on September 13 at the Rivoli Theatre and in Eau Claire on September 14 at 7 p.m.—director Samuel Dunning will host Q&A segments at each event—bringing a humorous look at freestyle canoeing to local audiences.

Viterbo University held its first day of class today — the campus welcomed new and returning students as the academic year begins.

North Woods Elementary installed a new vending machine that rewards students with free books — funded by Trust Point — after they earned tokens for good behavior.

The machine, placed near the main entrance, was first used on Aug. 28 and holds up to 250 books.

Local experts from UW-La Crosse and Western Technical College advise students to choose the path (trade school or four-year degree) that best fits them as they head back to school, highlighting strong job prospects at both institutions and seamless transfer agreements for future studies.

West Salem Elementary showcased its completed new gymnasium addition — built after voters approved a 2024 referendum — as the school prepares for the upcoming year.

City officials began flushing hydrants Monday in La Crosse to help maintain water quality & ensure reliable service.

La Crosse County ADRC is hosting a town hall at the Black River Beach Neighborhood Center where community members can share their views on aging services and state policies affecting older adults and caregivers.

Local legislators will join the event to help guide future funding decisions.

Local health officials reported that overdose deaths dropped with Narcan playing a key role + officials plan to expand free access to the antidote in the area.