Good morning, Mankato.

D and K Powder Coating raised a 20 by 30-foot American flag on Thursday atop an 80-foot flagpole to honor veterans — the full staff took part in the ceremony — and the flag is lighted with 100,000 lumens at night.

At Minnesota State University’s new Maverick Center for Financial Success in Mankato, panelists warned tariffs and a slowdown in agriculture could hurt Minnesota’s $26 billion ag economy that supports many local jobs.

Brett Feldman from United Prairie Bank and commissioner Kevin Paap said a drop in agriculture would cut community spending — a concern discussed at the forum Friday.

Pat Pehrson from Nicollet Public School won the Golden Apple Award for his teaching in agricultural science, industrial tech, and work-based learning as he leads an FFA program with 61 students—four of whom are set to earn the State FFA degree for the first time since 2011.

Officials and local residents are debating the water needed to cool planned data centers as estimates vary widely and potential impacts on groundwater are under review—concerns have led cities like Hampton to call for more studies before approving any projects.

Developers have not settled on cooling technology and local officials say further analysis will determine if existing water systems can handle the extra demand.

Community members and government leaders gathered at Gillette Children’s Mankato Clinic Friday to oppose proposed Medicaid cuts that could reduce state funding by up to $1.8 billion per year—leaders warned the cuts would limit essential healthcare for families.

Jason Bennett explained that without Medicaid support, his daughter would lose the round-the-clock care she needs and his ability to work would be jeopardized.

A.J. Burns and Carson Daggett each scored two goals as the Mankato boys lacrosse team defeated Hutchinson 9-1 Friday evening, marking a strong start to their season.

The team will meet New Prague on Monday, April 21 at 7:00 p.m.

The Minnesota State football team is set to play an exhibition game against Northern State today—this contest offers a chance for the team to test its skills—and local fans can look forward to a spring preview of the upcoming season.

Cinderella

12:59 p.m. — Minnesota State University Theatre & Dance — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Cinderella with beloved songs and a timeless story of hope.

Bunny Breakfast Buffet

7 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Hilltop Hy-Vee Grocery Store — Kids eat free with adult entree — Enjoy a themed breakfast with an egg hunt and crafts on Easter Saturday.

Bar Bingo

6 PM — Fraternal Order of Eagles — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of bingo with friends in a community atmosphere.

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare

Evening — Minnesota State University Theatre & Dance — Ticket prices Vary — Experience all 37 of Shakespeare's plays in a hilarious and fast-paced production.

Power to Choose: K-12 Education Expo

5-7:30 p.m. — Mankato Family YMCA — Free entry — Discover educational options in the greater Mankato area and engage with local representatives.

Loyola-Cleveland Invitational

Starting all day — Myers Field House — Check website for entry fees — Compete in a vibrant track and field atmosphere.

Trivia Night at Pub 500

7:30-10:00 p.m. — Pub 500 — $2 grab bottles and tap specials — Test your trivia skills while enjoying tasty deals on drinks.

Turn Turn Turn

8-9 p.m. — Hooligans — Ticket info not specified — Enjoy harmonies of 60s and 70s country, folk, and pop with this original Americana band.

AKDC Scorpio Rising Tour - Mankato Show

7-8 p.m. — Carnegie Art Center — Suggested donation — Experience a blend of heavy metal and jazz fusion with Aaron Kerr’s Dissonant Creatures' album release tour.

Women of Kato Series 4 Featuring Local Musicians

5-8 p.m. — NaKato Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy acoustic performances from four talented women artists in a collaborative music series.