Good morning, La Crosse.

Sen. Brad Pfaff hosted his annual corn roast (a long-standing local tradition) on Wednesday night in West Salem; leaders Crowley and Cooke joined the event as community members enjoyed local festivities.

Great Rivers United Way launched its 2026-27 campaign at its annual breakfast on Wednesday morning.

The nonprofit said a new report shows the Coulee Region needs more mental health support — donations are accepted until Dec. 31.

Dahl Automotive is launching its Lube-A-Thon fundraiser for the Family YMCA in La Crosse through Sept.

30; customers get $5 off oil changes while the dealership donates $5 per service to support YMCA programs.

De Soto Area School District is asking voters to approve a $3.6 million referendum — its fourth attempt in three years — to fund school improvements in the area.

The vote is expected soon.

On Wednesday, UWL welcomed its record 2,385 freshmen as 150 volunteers helped students move into new homes in La Crosse.

City and school officials said move-in traffic delays may last until Friday — drivers should plan accordingly.

Superintendent Engel said the 42-acre Trane donation will reshape campus layouts and prompt a final walkthrough of Lincoln Middle School before its conversion to affordable housing — while the district evaluates closing three elementary schools in the fall and launches a high school drone pilot program.

UW-La Crosse Chancellor Beeby reflected on 2025-26 successes as he welcomed back staff and students yesterday, Sept.

2, during a campus return address. The event marked a positive start to the academic year.

Hintgen Elementary in La Crosse received a $5,000 donation to support student programming and nutrition, including a Kindness Retreat for fourth- and fifth-grade students (the funds came from Dairyland Power Cooperative and a matching contribution from its CEO, Brent Ridge).

Sparta Area School District faces a three-year $7 million deficit after a failed referendum—and officials plan to seek community input on new funding options that may lead to staff cuts, longer bus rides, and higher facility fees.

Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau is also working on solutions after a capital referendum failed by 13 votes.

Two downtown bars in La Crosse are facing review for potential alcohol law violations; the city's J+A Committee will meet soon to decide on penalties + the review remains ongoing.

Jeremy Southworth has been named as the new fire chief of Onalaska Fire Department; he will lead the team to ensure community safety with a focus on efficient service.

Coulee Recovery Center will host its 12th Run for Recovery on Sunday, Sept.

6 at 8 a.m. at Copeland Park/Logger Stadium (1130 Copeland Park Dr) to raise funds and awareness about addiction treatment.