Good morning, Mankato.

Willow Brook residents are preparing to celebrate America’s 250th birthday by displaying patriotic banners on all 24 decks at their property.

The community, mostly veterans and military families, will host a dinner with a patriotic singer to mark the milestone.

Hi Cloud Dispensary will open North Mankato’s first recreational marijuana store in the old Game On Nutrition building by late June or early July to avoid the Independence Day rush; it passed final inspection from the Office of Cannabis Management (this month) and will have a shared rewards program.

Twin Rivers Council for the Arts will host Best in Art v6.26 on Tuesday, June 23 at Shared Spaces at Emy Frentz from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. as three regional artists compete for $500 People’s and Juror’s Choice Awards while guests meet the artists and vote.

Families and community members are invited to attend Art + Play tomorrow, Thursday, June 18, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the alley behind NaKato Bar and Grill, where the free event offers interactive art activities plus live demonstrations, music, creative play and community mural painting.

Former Free Press managing editor Joe Spear received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Minnesota chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists on Tuesday in St. Paul.

He led reporting projects that spurred community responses to mental health + homelessness during his 20-year career.

Mankato’s district wrapped up one year of focus schools that use inquiry-based learning at Bridges, Jefferson, and Rosa Parks (global studies, nature-based, and STEAM) and said positive feedback from students, staff, and parents is driving plans for future enhancements.

Kora Edwards, a senior from Cleveland Public Schools, is attending Scrubs Camp for the third time to explore healthcare jobs.

Hosted by South Central Service Cooperative and local partners, the three-day event inspires 63 high-schoolers with hands-on experiences.

South Central College is hosting its inaugural Transfer Student Signing Day on Tuesday at its North Mankato campus (1920 Lee Blvd) for incoming associate of arts and Transfer Pathway students to meet advisers, register for classes, and possibly earn a $500 scholarship; advance registration is required by Friday.

Picklebarn's outdoor clay tennis courts may open on July 4 behind a popular facility on North Victory Drive; the courts—built with a $200,000 grant-supported investment—will offer a unique play surface that eases joint stress and helps beginners learn the game.

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.

Lee Brice Concert

7:30 p.m. — Vetter Stone Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Country music superstar Lee Brice brings his hit-making voice to Mankato with new singles and fan favorites.