HAPPY NEW NEW

Hobbs Ice Center in Eau Claire, Wisconsin invites families and community members of all skill levels to its welcoming open skate sessions.

Located at 915 Menomonie Street, the arena features three indoor rinks and offers a variety of seasonal programs. Open skating is held Wednesdays and Sundays from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, perfect for shared family moments. Weekday lunchtime skates run Monday through Friday, 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, giving locals a convenient way to add fun and fitness to their routine.

Admission is just $6, with skates available for a $3 rental fee. Frequent visitors may benefit from the Eau Claire City Pass, with 12 entries for $40, usable for open skate, hockey, or swimming.

Hobbs also offers youth hockey clinics, adult broomball, and “Learn to Skate” classes for all ages through the Eau Claire Figure Skating Club. Everyone is welcome—step onto the ice and join the fun.

"The only way to do great work is to love what you do." - Steve Jobs

Authorities in Rusk County are urgently searching for 14-year-old Alexandria Kuntz, last seen at her Glen Flora home late on December 27, 2025.

Alexandria disappeared overnight, leaving behind her phone and laptop. Investigators suspect she left on foot and may have ties to Racine and Kenosha.

She is described as 5'3", about 170 pounds, with shoulder-length brown hair and hazel eyes. Alexandria was last seen in gray pants, a gray shirt, a black coat, cream Converse shoes, and carrying a pinkish-red Coach purse.

The Rusk County Sheriff's Office asks property owners near N5246 County Highway B, south of Glen Flora, to check their land and cameras for clues.

Those who saw anyone walking in the area late on December 27 or early December 28 should come forward.

Search efforts include the Wisconsin Department of Justice and the FBI. Community tips are vital for Alexandria’s safe return.

Dive into the holiday season at Irvine Park's Christmas Village in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, where over 250,000 lights and vintage holiday scenes transform the park into a magical winter wonderland.

Stroll on foot or drive through to experience dazzling displays inspired by Victorian traditions and local history.

The Christmas Village is open daily from 7:00 AM to 9:30 PM, from Thanksgiving night until January 1, with free admission making it a favorite tradition for the community.

Elevate your visit with horse-drawn wagon rides through the glowing park and downtown, running select evenings in December and departing from Leinenkugel’s Barn.

Tickets are $8 and can be picked up at the Family Fare Service Center.

Don’t miss the festive Bridge to Wonderland Parade on December 6, as well as family celebrations at the YMCA, including a New Year’s event.

Create enchanting new memories this winter in the heart of Chippewa Falls.

As 2025 ends, the Chippewa Valley celebrates a year of bold achievements and local progress.

Economic development took center stage in May, with the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation highlighting new partnerships and launching key broadband projects to fuel innovation.

The July opening of the Sonnentag Event Center in Eau Claire ushered in a new era for sports and community events, replacing the beloved Zorn Arena and becoming home to the UW-Eau Claire Blugolds and the Eau Claire Axemen.

The Eau Claire Area Chamber’s inaugural Business Day and November’s Startup Keynote energized professionals and sparked entrepreneurial ambition across the region.

Major news in healthcare arrived with plans for a $55 million hospital in Lake Hallie, while Cascades’ $6 million expansion in Eau Claire promised 36 new jobs, strengthening local industry.

Despite a lightning strike damaging the historic David Drummond House, community efforts showcased unwavering resilience and pride in Eau Claire’s heritage.

The Valley enters 2026 driven by growth, innovation, and unity.