Good morning, Mankato.

Connections Shelter received $135,283 from city + county funds to stay open all summer for homeless individuals, ending its seasonal closure.

Its 365 Match Campaign has reached half of a $200,000 goal and will seek more donations as it plans to offer 24-hour shelter in the future.

Greater Mankato Rotary awarded 'Service Above Self' honors to four non-Rotary community leaders, including Trisha Anderson (Partners for Housing), Jim and Jennie Ward (VINE renovations), Robert Fitterer, and Blue Earth County Historical Society during its 20th annual ceremony in Mankato.

The Village Play Cafe, inspired by a mother's postpartum challenges, is set to open later this summer in Old Town (featuring an indoor play area and coffee shop for caregivers with young children).

Its launch depends on health approvals and renovations, with a July opening expected if schedules hold.

Dairy Queen West — a community staple since 1973 — has new ownership as Chris Kunst and Chantal Heetland, current partners with Jersey Mike’s, take over the business, with owner JoRae Galli Storm’s final shift scheduled for May 21.

The new owners plan to continue serving familiar faces and upholding community ties.

The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota received a record $4 million donation from local donor Heidi Boyum through the Mankato Area Foundation to fund a major expansion of its interactive exhibits.

Museum officials said full expansion plans will be shared soon at 224 Lamm Street in Mankato.

Mankato East and West celebrated Signing Day on Wednesday as student athletes signed with colleges; the Cougars (East) and Scarlets (West) officially began planning their next steps in higher education.

Carson Hart is having an impressive final season for Mankato East baseball team, hitting .378 & stealing 17 bases.

The star athlete has committed to Creighton and continues to shine as he pursues his passion this season.

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.

Great Northern Viking Festival

3:30 p.m. — ISG Field — Cost info not provided — Celebrate Viking culture with music, storytelling, and delicious food.