Good morning, Mankato.

The Madison Lake Fire Department conducted ice water rescue training — a joint exercise with the Blue Earth County Dive Team — at the DNR access on Madison Lake yesterday afternoon and evening.

ECHO Food Shelf is serving over 500 people daily as the organization braces for rising demand, and the community fundraiser Pasta with the Padres will be held on March 22 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church (4 p.m.) with donations matched by the state.

Ace Hardware held a soft opening at Madison East Center last Wednesday where new employees fixed glitches (training on the register and key-cutting machine) as customers praised the store's variety.

A greenhouse is planned for the lot ahead of its grand opening on Saturday, May 2.

Rising diesel prices over $4 per gallon are increasing trucking costs, with Volk Transfer Inc in Mankato reporting a 25 to 30 percent cost hike.

The Minnesota Trucking Association warns that fuel price hikes may cause retailers to pass on higher costs to consumers across Minnesota.

Bethany Lutheran College’s master’s program in clinical mental health counseling received (CACREP) accreditation, confirming the course’s quality.

Christine Thompson, set to complete her degree in spring and practice in the Mankato area, hopes to help address the growing local shortage of mental health providers.

JWP boys basketball earned a berth to state after defeating Springfield 80 to 65 Wednesday night, while Waseca advanced to the Class A state tournament with a 75 to 64 win over Belle Plaine; the Bluejays return to state for a third straight season.

Mankato East Indoor Quad Invite

March 19th — Myers Field House — Registration required — Compete in an indoor track and field meet bringing together local athletes in Mankato.

F1RST Wrestling: LIVE!

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Kato Ballroom — All ages welcome — Catch thrilling live pro wrestling in Mankato, Minnesota!