Good morning, La Crosse.

A proposal to install a community fridge that would operate like little free pantries on private property is set for review by the Judiciary and Administration Committee on Jan.

6 — the idea follows similar efforts in Green Bay and Oshkosh.

The CPKC Holiday Train traveled through La Crosse earlier this month and raised over $2 million plus collected more than 175,000 pounds of food for local pantries.

It also reached communities in southeastern Minnesota and northeastern Iowa as part of its season-long campaign.

On Christmas Eve, a fire in the Cataract area forced a family to flee their home at 9653 Alpine Avenue when the garage ignited around 6 a.m., causing the property to suffer extensive fire+water damage and injuring one firefighter while officials investigate the cause.

City officials are launching requests for proposals to use more than $1 million in HOME ARP funds for constructing affordable housing and providing supportive services for the unsheltered — proposals must be submitted by January 16 with review decisions expected in January and funds spent by Sept. 30, 2030.

Governor Tony Evers and WHEDA announced $2 million in grants for emergency and low-income housing statewide on Friday, Dec.

26, which includes an $11,000 award to the Greater La Crosse Habitat for Humanity for affordable housing projects. The funds supported improvements like new homes (2 units) in local neighborhoods.

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.

Snow Ball 2026

6-9 p.m. — The Court Above Main — Fundraising event — Enjoy hors d'oeuvres, live music, and support local children in need.

Puzzlepalooza

9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — La Crosse Public Library — Free entry — Compete in a thrilling 300-piece puzzle race or enjoy a relaxed community puzzling experience with fellow enthusiasts.