Good morning, Mankato.

During National Volunteer Week, Atwood Companies encouraged volunteer work by letting employees serve lunches at Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center and draft a volunteer policy, while HR manager Ramona Morgan led by example.

Retired teacher Bob Ihrig also helps local organizations & churches, underscoring the community's spirit.

Chad Cabanilla from North Mankato was featured as a four-time champion on 'Wheel of Fortune’s special Spring Forward tournament taped on April 16.

He won $134,642 in prizes, including free trips abroad, and he and his husband plan to manage their alpacas on their Nicollet County farm this busy season.

Mary Topp donated her eclectic artworks to the Carnegie Art Center, which will offer them for sale during Art Brunch Fundraiser: Art Deco Saturday on April 25 from 10 a.m. to noon at 120 S.

Broad St.— the fundraiser will feature live music, dance, and local food.

Blue Earth Area Schools is planning a new $63 million referendum on Aug.

11 to replace its aging K-7 school — the district aims to build a new K-6 facility and move 7th graders to high school, and it will hold an info session on May 28 at 5:30 p.m. at the Pemberton Gymnasium to detail the proposals.

Students at Blue Earth Area High School and the United South Central School District witnessed a simulated crash yesterday that showed the risks of distracted driving — local police and emergency services staged the event to stress how a single distraction can lead to tragedy.

Minnesota State University named Aeleah Soine as dean of humanities and social sciences, with her appointment announced Wednesday and her start set for July 1.

She previously worked at Saint Mary’s College of California, where her leadership boosted retention and graduation rates — a move expected to strengthen academics.