Good morning, Mankato.

At a daylong forum on Wednesday, housing leaders stressed partnership as a solution to affordable housing shortages in south-central Minnesota.

Experts noted rising costs and promising community projects such as a 40-unit apartment initiative in Mankato that will boost local housing supply + support residents struggling with costs.

North Mankato Fire Department is teaming with American Red Cross to install free smoke alarms in local homes from Wednesday, June 10 through Sunday, June 14.

Residents can schedule an appointment by calling (507) 625-5378.

Ken Saffert of the AM Exchange Club repairs aging food machines at Sibley Park that fund nonprofits + support local charities, as vandalism and scarce parts challenge his dwindling team.

The club meets 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Happy Chef Restaurant, 51646 Highway 169 to explore ways to sustain the program.

Local businesses are sharing shelf space at Seoul Foods in North Mankato with restaurants such as the Wooden Spoon, Wakais Asian Fusion and Fusion Sushi—expanding their reach and offering fresh, locally sourced items.

Their social media partnerships unite the community and boost local business.

Local groups are preparing for Mankato’s annual Juneteenth celebration at Civic Center Plaza with a Freedom Walk (starting at 2:30 p.m.) preceding the event at 3:00 p.m. on June 19.

PowerOn Midwest held an open house near Wells on June 9 where 250 property owners saw maps for proposed power lines to connect eastern South Dakota with Rochester; the project will impact 47,000 residents & create 5,000 jobs as ITC reviews feedback ahead of an open house in August.

Great Northern Viking Festival

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

DCI: Drum Corps International

5:30-10 p.m. — Blakeslee Stadium — All Sales Final — Experience thrilling performances from elite drum corps at this exciting community event.

Billy Currington Concert

7 p.m. — Vetter Stone Amphitheatre — Tickets available — Enjoy live country music under the stars with Billy Currington.