This wouldn’t really be the “Best Of the Chippewa Valley ” issue if we didn’t talk about what the Chippewa Valley is good at, right? For starters, farmers markets. Supporting local is at the heart of what we do best, and there’s no shortage of options at local farmers markets, from local food to handmade goods. By buying local, you’re not only contributing to the local economy; you’re supporting your neighbors. Supporting live music and the arts is also a great way to pass the time, invest in local creatives, and come together as a community. Finally - and this one’s a bit of a bummer - we townies are pretty good at ignoring people experiencing homelessness. A recent Point-in-Time count estimates more than 100 homeless people live in our region. They’re our neighbors too. Let’s act like it. —Rebecca Mennecke