Good morning, La Crosse.

Panda Express held its community grand opening event on Oct 20, 2025—welcoming local residents as it opened its new restaurant.

The event marked the business’s first step to serve the community directly.

Panda Express opened its doors today in La Crosse during a grand celebration—40 new jobs were created, a $1,000 check was donated to Wafer Food Pantry, and the first 88 customers received free promotional items.

Community volunteers have improved Lewis Point Park in West Salem by installing a rain garden made of engineered soil and depressions, filling it with bearded beggar tick plants to lower runoff and pollutants — they plan to add more plant species this winter.

Wonderstate Coffee in Viroqua marks its 20th anniversary as its solar array reaches 10 years of operation — the $35,000, 30 kilowatt system produces 15% more power than needed and helped the business earn B Corp certification — showing its commitment to green energy.

The La Crosse County Historical Society received statewide recognition from the Wisconsin Historical Society for its honored 2024 Hackner exhibit on church interiors and wood carvings — it celebrated the award at Mary of Angels Chapel where some Hackner works remain visible.

First responders from the La Crosse Fire, Police and Sheriff's Departments met with Chamber of Commerce officials Monday morning to review how public safety has changed over the years.

They reported higher emergency call volumes and increased focus on mental health crises, which is driving updates in training and resource plans—ensuring communities receive proper care.

Food banks in La Crosse are preparing for increased demand as SNAP funding expires amid the government shutdown—officials say many local families may soon face tighter access to food.

Local officials confirmed Black Hawk Bridge was permanently closed on Oct 20—final procedures completed the shutdown and the structure is now off-limits.

At the start of the week, the local team spoke with breast surgeon Dr. Hope Guzzo who explained that early screening lowers breast cancer deaths—information shared during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

This discussion aims to give viewers practical tips for detecting cancer early.

La Crosse Lighthouse executive director Abigail Spanjers discussed the nonprofit’s peer-run respite services for mental health on La Crosse Talk and previewed a philanthropic breakfast for today from 7—9 a.m. at the Radisson downtown; she explained that state and federal funding cuts have forced the organization to scale back operations, heightening its need for local support.

More than 2,000 youth soccer players and 3,000 family members visited La Crosse this past weekend for the RUSH Wisconsin West Coulee Cup Tournament at Fields for Kids.

The event, featuring 130 teams from four states in 400 games, generated an estimated $900,000—boosting hotel stays and local business revenue.

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.