The cheer you heard back in January was coming from youngsters and grown-ups alike when the brand-new Children’s Museum of Eau Claire (126 N. Barstow St.) officially opened its doors. For more than a year, locals had watched with excitement as construction of the museum progressed, and the big reveal of the fun and educational new facility did not disappoint. Valley voters are also thrilled that we’re finally getting a Costco (1476 Black Ave., Eau Claire); the Eau Claire City Council approved the project in October, but an opening date is still TBD. Finally, after years of effort, ground was broken in late 2022 on North Barstow for a new, much bigger home for Eau Claire’s Menomonie Market Food Co-op. –Tom Giffey