Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 31st of October.
Good morning, La Crosse.
🏘️ Community
Habitat for Humanity volunteers and future homeowners gathered in Hillsboro to plant a tree honoring the late Jimmy Carter for his decades of service to affordable housing—Executive Director Kahya Fox said the event highlighted the need for more housing in rural communities.
Organizers will open the Winter Farmers Market tomorrow at the Masonic Center+across from the Public Library; locals will shop+gather in a cozy, accessible space as favorite summer vendors transition to winter sales and the market runs from 9 a.m. until noon every other Saturday through April.
A local cannabis dispensary launched its 'Can for Can' food drive that lets customers exchange canned goods for cannabis beverages to support local families during the government shutdown—donations will benefit the WAFER Food Pantry and Hunger Task Force throughout November.
Fearing food access issues due to the federal government shutdown, La Crosse County released a list on Wednesday of food pantries, meal sites, and other resources for residents.
The list supports over 10,000 people who receive FoodShare benefits—many of whom are families with children, working households, or include older adults, county officials said.
La Crosse Central football players, coaches, and families donated nonperishable food to the YMCA on Thursday night—part of their regular give-back plan following a team dinner that shows local support.
La Crosse held a Winter Farmers Market on October 30th where community members could shop for seasonal goods—details about vendors and offerings were reported later.
La Crosse Central Football organized food donations for the YMCA on Oct 30—helping provide meals for families in the area.
The team's effort marked an ongoing community support initiative.
Wafer Food Pantry is hosting an emergency food drive to support residents facing food insecurity—organizers plan to collect donations from local community members.
🌲 Environment
La Crosse Wastewater Treatment Plant completed a new building and equipment upgrade as part of the city's largest public works project.
The project meets low-level phosphorus limits and burns methane gas to produce electricity — a change that cuts the biosolid footprint — while supporting sustainable operations.
🏛️ Government
La Crosse County officials have drafted a 10-year Opioid Response Plan to use $7.6 million from an opioid settlement to reduce jail admissions, lower child welfare placements and expand treatment access — offering Narcan, test strips and more recovery housing, with the plan taking effect in 2026.
State Representative Jodi Emerson and Senator Jeff Smith hosted a food drive at the Community Table in Eau Claire to support nearly 700,000 people who rely on FoodShare benefits, which are set to expire Saturday—lawmakers asking community members to donate funds or volunteer amid growing food insecurity. This effort comes as federal food assistance programs face uncertainty during the ongoing government shutdown.
🏥 Health
Westby teen Jacoby Strong is battling rare health conditions, and his parents say he has always been one of a kind+ local community groups are coming together to help support his treatment as he faces this medical challenge.
🎉 La Crosse Events
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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.
VILLAGE GIFT & HOME GRAND OPENING
VILLAGE GIFT & HOME GRAND OPENING EVENT NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 14 located next to Domino's in La Crosse's Village Shopping Center. In store SPECIALS, DRAWINGS, FUN STUFF for ALL AGES OPEN M-F 10-6, Sat 10-4, Sun Noon-4/ Facebook/Instagram/[email protected]/608-792-3904
One Christmas Eve
7:30-9:30 p.m. — La Crosse Community Theatre — Learn more and purchase tickets here — Enjoy a diverse cast navigating love and chance during a festive performance.
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