Good morning, Mankato.

The YMCA held its Duck Derby fundraiser on Wednesday, letting sponsors put their names on over 4,000 rubber ducks racing in the pool as children cheered.

Winning duck 1872 earned a prize for its sponsor while the event supports swim lessons, childcare and senior wellness programs.

Up to three new restaurants will join River Hills Mall’s rim road with fast-casual dining planned on either side of Sioux Road after A&W closed for economic reasons; a full-size Chick-fil-A is under construction with officials anticipating a fall opening.

Fusion Five will open by the end of May in the former Olives space downtown — offering five continental cuisines, a planned sushi bar, and American breakfasts for hotel guests.

Mankato hotelier Doug Anderson, known for shaping local hotels + mentoring staff, died April 28 at 87, leaving a lasting impact on the city’s hospitality and business community.

His work helped define the local hotel industry over several decades.

The Mankato Area Public School Board voted earlier this week to extend its 2017 operating levy for 10 years until 2037 (keeping the per-student rate at $641 with an inflation adjustment), a decision that avoids a costly election and sharp budget cuts.

The Greater Mankato United Way Fourth Grade Book Project visited Kennedy Elementary, celebrating 10 years of sharing Shel Silverstein’s classic with local fourth graders in Blue Earth, Le Sueur, Nicollet, and Waseca counties.

Volunteers from the Olseth Family Foundation read the book to the students during the visit.

Bravo Zulu House has secured land on the west side of 8th Avenue between Cleveland and Lind streets in Mankato for its $2 million Women’s House to support female veterans in recovery from addiction and PTSD.

Construction is set to begin this fall with an opening in late 2027.

Lily Considine led West Scarlets as her junior softball team won 5 of its last 6 games in North Mankato.

The outfielder stepped up her game this season as the team prepares for upcoming contests.

Brit Floyd - Pink Floyd Tribute

8-9:30 p.m. — Vetter Stone Amphitheater — Tickets required — Experience the world's premier Pink Floyd tribute in a celebration of iconic rock albums.

Interactive Training Series in Mankato

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Cemstone Supply — Free entry — Meet experts and explore top hardscape solutions with exclusive event pricing.

BENCHS Plant Sale

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Blue Earth Nicollet County Humane Society — Donations welcomed — Find beautiful plants while supporting animals in need.