Local teachers fight at the front lines of an overworked, underpaid, and generally unappreciated field, educating the bright minds of our next generation. Mark your calendars: May 6-10 is Teacher Appreciation Week, and a small gift card or thank-you note always goes a long way. Our local public libraries also deserve some lovin’. This year, E.C.’s L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library was named “Project of the Year” by In Business, and the Menomonie Public Library will soon undergo renovations as part of a $3 million grant. After making all that community progress, locals enjoy a taste of Chicago through delish dishes from C&T’s Soul Food (963 W. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire). —Rebecca Mennecke