Good morning, La Crosse.

Rising costs have forced families to surrender pets in the region, pushing owner surrenders up 55% over last year while the Coulee Region Humane Society houses over 300 animals + partners with local food assistance programs to help families keep their pets.

Local businesses hosted the 'Scenes from an Italian Restaurant: An evening with Joshua McFadden' fundraiser for the Hunger Task Force featuring James Beard Award winning Chef McFadden.

He held a book signing plus social gathering before a ticketed dinner inspired by recipes from his new bestselling cookbook.

The Salvation Army in La Crosse is nearly halfway to its $400,000 goal as its bell-ringing campaign runs until noon on Christmas Eve.

A $2,000 donation from the County Tavern League has boosted holiday giving in the community.

Students from Bangor B Club delivered toys and gifts to children and families at Mayo and Emplify hospitals as part of their annual holiday donation drive.

The project aims to ease the holiday stress for young patients spending Christmas away from home (a welcome gesture in our community).

Gas Buddy reports that gas prices have dropped for three consecutive weeks to a national average of $2.85 per gallon, with stations in West Salem and Onalaska selling for $2.37—about 50 cents less than the state average due to increased refinery output.

Mac Kiel reported on La Crosse Talk PM on Dec.

16 that city officials are reviewing a new administrator plan while the Charmant building was sold to billionaire Diane Hendricks (whose Beloit work may boost downtown).

La Crosse County government has set aside funds with each budget to support economic development efforts, including housing, community planning, and local art programs.

Community development specialist Sam Bachmeier explained citizen and business application options on Wednesday’s La Crosse Talk.

Charlie's Fund, founded after the loss of Charlie, raised $60,000 to equip local child care centers with AEDs and will begin delivering the devices today + officials say the move strengthens emergency response across Wisconsin.

Quenten Brown LIVE at Boot Hill Pub

7-10 p.m. — Boot Hill Pub — Enjoy great food and drinks while listening to local musician Quenten Brown's three-hour non-stop performance.