Good morning, La Crosse.

Local Rotarian Al Louis founded the seventh annual Al's Musky Challenge fundraiser that raised over $153,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters, GROW and the La Crosse Community Theatre.

The event collected donations through a flat rate or per-fish pledge and has raised over a million dollars since its start—supporting local community programs.

The Uncanny Exhibit, an immersive Halloween event by local artists, opened yesterday at the Rivoli Arts District and will run through Nov.

1. Visitors can explore thirteen themed rooms and must book timed entry tickets — with only 50 people allowed per hour.

On Oct 16, local news reported that a mysterious pumpkin had been part of a 30-year tradition in the community.

The story detailed its long history—making it a unique local custom.

La Crosse School District held one final public visit to the Hogan Administrative Center on Wednesday evening, where former student Norm Muellenberg recalled his early school days.

The building — constructed in 1920 and opened in 1921 — will be demolished after Habitat for Humanity volunteers salvage items for reuse before a new elementary school is built.

The School District of La Crosse is accepting nominations for its Golden Apple Awards—an initiative that honors staff who help students feel safe and supported.

Families, staff, and community members can nominate any employee, and fall nominations remain open through November 6.

Medical residents and faculty from Emplify by Gundersen visited State Road Elementary yesterday to teach students the basics of healthcare through interactive classes on the human body, healthy eating, and injury prevention.

They also offered simulations to show how medicine works + sparked interest in a career in health.

State lawmakers promoted bills to lower college costs and keep UW-La Crosse graduates in the local area on Thursday morning — the College Saving Fairness Act and the Wisconsin Tuition Promise, in response to a report that ranked Wisconsin 46th nationally in affordability.

The Wisconsin State Assembly honored first responders with an award given to one honoree from each district; in La Crosse, Police Officer Josh Rollins was recognized along with honorees Mike Hesse and Patty Pesik for their lengthy service.

Their recognition highlights an ongoing commitment by public safety teams to serve their communities — a tribute to decades of dedicated volunteer work.

Three Sixty Real Estate Solutions held a groundbreaking for Badger West (a 46-unit studio apartment building near UW-La Crosse) on Wednesday.

Construction will begin before the end of October (with apartments expected by June) for college students seeking to live alone.

The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse football team beat UW-Eau Claire 41-21 on October 14 at Roger Harring Stadium, improving their record to 4-0 (Eagles record) while UW-Eau Claire fell to 3-2.

The team will face UW-Platteville tomorrow at 1 p.m. under head coach Matt Janus (a UW-Platteville alum).

The Texas Tenors Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Viterbo University Fine Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an unforgettable evening of country, pop, and classical music with The Texas Tenors.

Wisconsin-La Crosse Eagles vs UW Oshkosh Titans Football

1-6 p.m. — Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex — Ticket prices vary — Witness an exciting football showdown between the Eagles and Titans.

Mixed Parkinson's Disease Exercise Program

4:30-5:30 p.m. — STAR Center La Crosse — Free entry — Engage in a beneficial exercise session designed specifically for individuals with Parkinson's Disease.

Roy Wood Jr. Live Comedy Show

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Viterbo University Fine Arts Center — Check ticket availability — Enjoy an engaging night of comedy with Roy Wood Jr.'s sharp wit and storytelling.

Ben Folds Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Viterbo University Fine Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an unforgettable evening of music with Ben Folds’ captivating piano performances and witty lyrics.

Holiday Pop-Up Shops

10 AM – 1 PM — The Charmant Hotel — Free — Discover handmade treasures from local artisans in a festive holiday atmosphere.

Clawhammer Banjo Basics with Brennan Henry Allsworth

9:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Art House La Crosse — $40-$70 — Learn the art of clawhammer banjo from an experienced instructor while exploring music theory and techniques.