Good morning, Mankato.

Today, Cedar Crate Farm will share fresh recipes + produce at the Mankato Farmers' Market in the Best Buy parking lot, which runs Saturdays 8 a.m.-noon.

St. Peter’s market starts June 13 outside the St. Peter Food Co-op, and North Mankato’s market opens June 8 at 1825 W. Howard Drive.

North Mankato will soon welcome YoYo Chicken in the former Curioso-Tea on Commerce Drive.

The new restaurant will offer fried chicken, burgers and more as it joins other local chicken spots.

AAA reported that gas prices in Minnesota have increased 25 cents for the second week, reaching $4.19 per gallon as drivers head into the weekend, with local rates from $4.18 in Brown County to $4.29 in Waseca County.

Loyola Catholic School introduced Jesse Hicks as its new president Friday.

Hicks (an alumnus who previously worked at the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation and MSU Mankato) said he looks forward to strengthening support for teachers, staff, and students.

Local Olympian Aidan Oldenburg visited Washington Elementary on Friday morning to share his Olympic curling journey and lessons in hard work and respect.

The talk gave students a chance to see how local success can spark big dreams (a reminder that dedication starts early).

State Patrol trooper Troy Christianson explained the proper zipper merge for drivers facing lane closures from construction; he advised staying in your lane until the merge point and taking turns to merge safely.

The $100 million Marriott/Element hotel project downtown remains about a year behind schedule after demolition and soil work were complete, with construction expected to restart in spring — an update is promised soon.

Meanwhile, plans for the Hy-Vee redevelopment have been abandoned.

Mankato East softball hosted Chisago Lakes last Friday and won 3-1 in a close game at their home field.

Mankato East and Farmington will play the championship game of the East Invite today — the match starts at 10:00 a.m. at Caswell Park.

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.