Wednesday, December 31st, 2025
Good morning, La Crosse. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 31st of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ La Crosse County has welcomed its first residents at Park Lane Studios — a new housing project with 10 studio apartments and wraparound support services — as supportive housing solutions to combat homelessness begin rolling out. Officials plan to help residents transition to permanent housing over the next two years. News8000
- ➤ The Rivoli Arts District is hosting a family-friendly New Year's Eve Ball Drop Bash today at the Rivoli Theatre. The event features a dance, a screening of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs at 3 p.m. and a virtual ball drop at 4 p.m. with tickets starting at $12 in advance. News8000
- ➤ Boy Scouts thanked emergency staff at Emplify Health by Gundersen by donating cases of popcorn + they will extend the gesture to other first responders in the area, recognizing the workers' commitment to community health and safety. News8000
- ➤ La Crosse hosted a family-friendly early New Year's ball drop on Dec. 30 at a downtown park, where community members enjoyed music & games to celebrate the season. News8000
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ David Hoffmann, a Florida-based billionaire and Missouri native, will become chair after his $35 million deal gave him a controlling stake in Lee Enterprises, owner of the Tribune. La Crosse Tribune
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Today, a local Limburger cheese drop event is set for New Year's Eve downtown and is expected to draw a lively crowd. Organizers say the quirky drop aims to bring the community together for a fun, unique celebration. News8000
- ➤ Park Lane Studios opened on Dec. 30 to local residents seeking a new creative space for art and community events. The venue now offers a modern hub where locals can explore arts and gather for events. News8000
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ School referendums passed in La Crosse, West Salem, and Sparta in 2024 will lead to construction projects aimed at updating local K-12 schools in the Coulee Region in 2026. La Crosse Tribune
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Sustainable Driftless, Inc. in La Crosse will debut its Annual Sustainability Awards in 2026, inviting online submissions in January for four categories where finalists can win cash prizes, a commemorative gift, and bragging rights for regional sustainability practices. WEAU
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Rep. Van Orden attended a dog training class on French Island Monday night to show support for veteran-owned Rising Starr. Owner Rick Pedersen said he kept the visit a secret to maintain the normal class feel — a nod to his business approach. WIZM
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Dr. Kurt Oettel spoke on La Crosse Talk on Monday, Dec. 29, explaining that early cancer screenings help save lives by catching colon, prostate, and breast cancers sooner. He noted that improved treatments over his career make fighting the disease more possible. WIZM
- ➤ Local gym owner Sally Johnson said many residents planning 2026 fitness resolutions actually join later, as most new memberships begin in February due to busy post-holiday schedules. She advises those starting the year with fitness goals to add proper nutrition (key for boosting metabolism). WEAU
- ➤ Flu season worsened with more cases reported on Dec. 30 — local clinics noted a surge. Health officials advised residents to seek prompt care if symptoms exist. News8000
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Baby Storytime
12-12:30 p.m. — La Crosse Public Library — Free entry — Interactive storytime for infants featuring stories, songs, and caregiver meetups.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.
~ Banksy
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