With countless closures, cancellations, and tremendous bummers, summer in the Chippewa Valley is beginning to feel a bit like a big ol’ deflating balloon. But fear not, wonderful folks of this great area! We live in western Wisconsin – where the weather’s perfect, the people are friendly, and we have the best cheese curds on Earth – and we just need a little imagination to make this summer not a bummer. What does that look like, might you ask? With face masks in tow and six feet between us, we’ve turned this issue into one giant list of 50 solid ways to make the best of this summer – from attending virtual library programs to tuning in to live-streamed concerts; from taking up new hobbies to getting down and dirty with some paintball. Even though you may not be able to enjoy those mouth-watering funnel cakes at the Northern Wisconsin State Fair or hang around at music festivals, we invite you to look beyond the uncertainty of this pandemic and to get creative in making this new normal … well, normal. Between your imagination and our Making the Best of Summer issue, we’re sure you’ll make the most of this very different summer.

Stay Healthy, Stay Safe, Enjoy.

A good rule of thumb when it comes to staying safe this summer is to A.) make sure you maintain six-foot social distance in public, B.) wear a mask in public situations where social distancing cannot be maintained, and C.) stay home if you’re exhibiting symptoms. As of this writing, the current Eau Claire City-County Health Department order allows outdoor gatherings with up to 20 attendees, while indoor gatherings can have up to 10 attendees. This, of course, is subject to change. In Eau Claire County, organizers of public gatherings are required to document attendee contact information and screen attendees for symptoms of coronavirus. Travel outside of Eau Claire is strongly discouraged, but not prohibited. Self-quarantine is recommended upon return for 14 days in addition to a monitoring of symptoms. If you’re looking to get active this summer, sporting events are permitted so long as they follow social distancing protocols. Sports such as tennis or golf are great options! Be courteous on hiking and biking trails, and step aside to let others pass without breaking social distance. If you’re going to a farmers market, go to shop and not to wander, wear a face mask, and practice social distancing. Playgrounds and campgrounds may be open so long as they follow social distancing protocol. For updates on coronavirus and social distancing protocols in the community, visit your local health department website. Keep yourself and others safe as we navigate these summer months together.