Good morning, Mankato.

The Holiday Sharing Tree program has begun its annual effort to help families by offering Giving Cards with recipients’ first names, ages, and a suggested $20 donation.

Cards were available Tuesday at local sites—River Hills Mall Food Court, Fleet Farm, Bomgaars, both Hy-Vee locations, North Mankato Taylor Library, and select St. Peter locations—and donations must be returned by December 14 so volunteers can deliver gifts before the holidays.

Washington Elementary School was named a Minnesota School of Excellence for 2025—26 during a ceremony on Wednesday in Mankato—one of 13 schools in the state to earn the honor.

Principal Ann Haggerty said the award shows the school’s focus on high expectations, equity and community partnerships based on feedback from students, parents and staff.

Washington Elementary in Mankato was named one of 13 schools of excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association, and Principal Ann Haggerty said the award recognizes the hard work of teachers, students, and families.

Mankato Mayor Najwa Massad joined a celebration on Wednesday—marking a proud day for the school community.

MnDOT will host indoor career fairs at district offices in Mankato and Windom to provide local residents with information on job openings and on-site application opportunities in construction, maintenance and other areas — the Windom fair runs from 5—8 p.m. on Nov.

19 while the Mankato fair runs from 5—8 p.m. on Nov. 20 with no registration required.

South Central College in North Mankato hosted a forum last Wednesday on data center development where lawmakers, officials and experts discussed economic benefits and environmental challenges—highlighting new water usage rules.

The panel emphasized that as data centers grow, communities must plan for rising energy demand and sustainable water use—calling for more transparent local decision-making.

A local advocacy group was recognized on Wednesday by the Minnesota Department of Health for its work fighting teen nicotine addiction—having helped raise the age for buying nicotine to 21 and now working on legislation to limit flavored products.

The University of Minnesota faculty member Siobhan McMahon will discuss preventing falls among older adults in a free lecture on Tuesday at 3:30—4:30 p.m. held in Minnesota State University’s Ostrander Auditorium in Centennial Student Union, with free parking available in the visitors pay lot as part of the Tenorio Research Series.

Mankato West swimmer Jordan Woodford was named Prep Athlete of the Week—he will compete in several state events.

Mankato East athletes signed national letters of intent on Wednesday — making their collegiate plans official.

The Mankato West girls swim and dive team will send a handful of athletes to the state meet later this week—allowing them to gain experience and prepare for tougher competitions.

The Cougars won the Section 1A title for the first time last week—Mankato East girls swim and dive athletes will compete at the upcoming state meet.

MSU Moorhead Dragons vs. Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks Football

12:00 – 1:30 PM — Blakeslee Stadium — Tickets from $33 — Cheer on the Dragons and Mavericks in an exciting collegiate football matchup.

Michigan Tech Huskies vs. Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks Men's Hockey

6:07-7:37 p.m. — Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center — Ticket prices vary — Witness an exciting collegiate hockey clash in Minnesota.

Holiday Craft and Gift Show

10 AM – 6 PM — River Hills Mall — Free Admission — Enjoy a festive shopping experience with handmade gifts and local artisans.

Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks vs. St. Cloud State Huskies

2:02 PM — Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center — Ticket prices not specified — Watch an exciting college hockey matchup between the Mavericks and Huskies.

Live Music by Dan Duffy Orchestra

6-9 p.m. — Wow! Zone — Enjoy delicious food with captivating swing and Hot Club music.