Good morning, Mankato.

After a winter drop that reduced daily donation car loads from around 80 (now 60), the Salvation Army’s Mankato thrift shop has extended donation hours to 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday to fund local emergency services and social programs.

Ten cats arrived at BENCHS this week after their owner could no longer care for them due to serious health issues.

The gentle felines, ranging in age from 2½ to 12, are available for adoption at the local shelter.

Mankato Area Public Schools restarted construction this spring by upgrading secure entrances at Hoover and Kennedy while crews work around classes, with HVAC updates planned after school ends in late May (project timelines may change with weather).

St. Peter invites residents to share opinions via an online survey that will update its 2050 Comprehensive Plan—residents unable to respond online may pick up a paper copy at City Hall.

The City Council approved zoning and design for Front Street Place — a redevelopment that will replace the vacant Walgreens and adjacent buildings with a grocery, apartments, offices, and commercial space in downtown, while developers plan to start sitework by year end with completion set for 2028.

MSU track and field athletes achieved big marks at the Minnesota State Open on Sunday and Monday, and they will compete at the Pitt State Tune Up on Saturday — continuing their season with renewed determination.

Free Oral Cancer Screenings in Mankato & Rochester

In honor of Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, Southeastern Minnesota Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery will offer free oral cancer screenings on April 16 from 2 pm to 4 pm at: 2519 Commerce Drive NW, Suite 110, Rochester, Minn., 55901; and 1410 Madison Avenue, Mankato, Minn., 56001. To participate, arrive at one of the clinics during the designated times and ask for a free cancer screening.

Free Oral Cancer Screenings in Mankato & Rochester

In honor of Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, Southeastern Minnesota Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery will offer free oral cancer screenings on April 16 from 2 pm to 4 pm at: 2519 Commerce Drive NW, Suite 110, Rochester, Minn., 55901; and 1410 Madison Avenue, Mankato, Minn., 56001. To participate, arrive at one of the clinics during the designated times and ask for a free cancer screening.

Toy Stories on Ice

7-9 p.m. — All Seasons Arena — $10 adult, $5 youth/senior/student — Experience a charming retelling of Toy Story featuring local skaters portraying beloved characters.

Toy Stories on Ice – 51st Annual Ice Show

7-9 p.m. — All Seasons Arena — $10 adult, $5 youth/senior/student — Experience the beloved characters of Toy Story brought to life through local figure skating talents.

Micro Wrestling Federation Show

7-10 p.m. — Kato Ballroom — All-ages show — Experience thrilling micro wrestling action with body slams, brawls, and the chance to meet the wrestlers post-event.