Linda’s Bakery launches limited-edition cookie to benefit Family & Children’s Center (WXOW)

WEST SALEM, Wis. (WXOW) – Linda’s Bakery in West Salem is partnering with Family & Children’s Center to introduce a unique treat in support of Coulee Region children in need and their La Crosse Symphony Orchestra (LSO) Conductor Wannabe campaign.

A limited-edition cookie will be available at Linda’s Bakery through April 27, and half the proceeds of every cookie bought will go to the campaign and supporting child abuse prevention efforts.

The cookie features the face of “Blue Waldo,” the Family & Children’s Center’s candidate for La Crosse Symphony Orchestra’s Conductor Wannabe contest, who typically goes by the name of Mike Quam.

The La Crosse Symphony Orchestra asks each Conductor Wannabe candidate to choose a nonprofit to support during the competition. The winners donate half of the competition earnings to the nonprofit and will get to make their conducting debut with the LSO on May 2.

Quam—or Blue Waldo—has chosen to support the Stepping Stones program at Family & Children’s Center, a program that provides forensic interviews and advocacy for children who have experienced possible abuse or neglect.

Family & Children’s Center is grateful for the creativity and support of Linda’s Bakery with this campaign.

“Every cookie purchased helps ensure that children have a voice, are protected, and receive the care and advocacy that they deserve,” the center said in a release Tuesday.

The limited-edition cookie is available now at Linda’s Bakery.

Information on the Conductor Wannabe program can be found here.

Article originally appeared on WXOW.com on March 17, 2026.