Good morning, Mankato.

The Cleveland, Kasota, and Madison Lake volunteer fire departments are conducting live house fire training today using a new SAM boost tool on their upgraded pumper truck — officials expect the drill to improve response times until more staff arrive.

Good Counsel Hill is hosting guided tours this weekend as the Blue Earth County Historical Society and Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership offer a final chance to see the historic campus before renovations turn it into housing and commercial space (tickets cost $25 and can be purchased online).

Dana Sikkila and Dinah Langsjoen will create a mural in North Mankato this summer, announced at Saturday’s CityArt in the Alley event.

Underwritten by The Marian Anderson Fund (Mankato Area Foundation), the mural will appear on the NaKato Bar & Grill side at Belgrade Avenue and Range Street.

The school board toured Mankato West High School on Monday to review progress on a $105 million bond-funded project adding a new gym, flex classrooms, and secure entrance.

Construction will be completed a few weeks before the next school year ends — additional spaces like a band room are planned.

Brandon Janike became the new chief financial officer at Mankato Clinic Monday, returning to the clinic where he was born after 17 years in Minnesota healthcare.

He aims to help the clinic grow to keep it a local option for future generations.

The state softball tournament begins today as Mankato East faces Cretin-Derham Hall at 12:30, undefeated Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial plays Esko at 3:00, and top-seeded United South Central meets Sebeka at 5:30 at Caswell Park.

Semifinals take place Wednesday with championships set for Friday.

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.