Good morning, La Crosse.

Army Specialist Martin Waltemath and 106-year-old First Lieutenant Leland Chenoweth were inducted into the Tomah VA Medical Center’s Hall of Heroes today, honoring their bravery and civic contributions — community members, veterans, and families gathered to celebrate their service.

The Onalaska Fire Department held a live fire safety demonstration on Thursday to show the risks of a dry Christmas tree with and without a sprinkler system.

The event reminded households to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to stay safe this holiday season.

The 11th annual Kriskindlmarkt took place on Dec.

4 in La Crosse, inviting residents to enjoy a festive market tradition that highlights the community’s enduring spirit.

Hixon House in La Crosse is hosting a 'Dorm Girls' holiday party theme that honors its 1947 history as a college dorm.

Visitors can take free tours and view historic decorations (including actors and a Hixon family member) available today through Sunday.

Tickets for Ashley for the Arts 2026 are on sale starting Thursday — prices start at $35 and will increase on Feb.

15 — and Jon Pardi is the first headliner for the event set for Aug. 6, 7 and 8 at Memorial Park in Arcadia.

Kriskindlmarkt returns to Sparta for its 11th year in the Sparta Creekside area near 106 E.

Main St. Running until Dec. 20, the holiday market offers local vendors, handmade goods, food, and festive visits from Santa and the Grinch who is raising funds for local nonprofits.

A report released Dec.

4 indicated that layoff announcements eased in November as local businesses reported fewer job cuts. The trend may suggest modest stability in the local economy.

La Crosse Parks, Recreation and Forestry launches the Salt Smart campaign to help residents and businesses use safer snow removal methods (like sand and non-toxic deicers) to protect the environment.

A kick-off event with salt activities runs Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 4:00 p.m. (at the Black River Beach Neighborhood Center).

A local committee favored selling downtown properties and recommended that officials review the proposal to help shape future redevelopment — details on next steps are pending.

La Crosse firefighters and snow removal crews are urged to dress in three layers and use waterproof boots, gloves, and hats to remain safe in cold weather, according to Fire Department educator Molly McCormick and Midwest Outdoors co-owner Ian Matchett, who highlighted the importance of proper gear and regular breaks.

VILLAGE GIFT & HOME GRAND OPENING CONTINUES THROUGH 12/14/25

Village Gift & Home (next to Dominos in the Village Shopping Center) GRAND OPENING EVENT continues now through Dec 14 with Gift Ideas @ GRAND OPENING SPECIALS for Elves of ALL AGES!!! Santa stops every day to deliver MORE NEW ITEMS for every department at La Crosses NEWEST (& BEST?) Christmas destination (FACEBOOK TOO).

One Christmas Eve

7:30-9:30 p.m. — La Crosse Community Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a humorous and heartwarming performance with a diverse cast navigating love and second chances during the holiday season.

Staying Safe from Internet Scams

11 AM – 12 PM — La Crosse Public Library — Free entry — Learn to recognize and avoid internet scams while keeping your personal information safe.

A Holly Jazzy Christmas

7:30 p.m. — Cappella Performing Arts Center — Ticket info unavailable — Experience a magical evening of holiday classics with Debbie O'Keefe and the La Crosse Jazz Orchestra.

One Christmas Eve

7:30-9:30 p.m. — La Crosse Community Theatre — Tickets available — Experience a diverse cast navigating love and second chances in a festive holiday show.

2nd Annual A Home for the Holidays Gala

5:30-11:00 p.m. — Radisson Hotel La Crosse — $100.00 — Celebrate the season with cocktails, dinner, auctions, dancing, and surprises at this delightful fundraiser.