Good morning, Mankato.

Yesterday, MRCI celebrated International Day of Persons with Disabilities by highlighting its job training programs that have connected over 1,200 locals with work and raised wages from $8 to $15 per hour in five years — it also hosted listening sessions with lawmakers to promote self-advocacy.

Soybean prices rose today after China agreed to buy 12 million metric tons by year-end — however, only 1.5 million tons have been purchased so far.

Local farmers remain alert to market shifts, and one in Euclid said timing their sales has become a roll of the dice.

Mankato is accepting applications through Friday, 4:30 p.m., for a $2,000 festival grant for 2026 events — a panel will review proposals in December and council will decide by January — while $65,000 in public service grants have been awarded to local social services groups.

MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell filed paperwork on Wednesday to run for governor by forming a campaign committee to raise funds; he will announce his candidacy on Dec.

11. His entry is expected to stir a crowded GOP race.

Emily Thompson, a social worker at Mankato Clinic Family Medicine, said her patients feel safe with providers of color, and a report by the Center for Rural Policy and Development shows rural residents face language, transportation and trust barriers seeking mental health care (stigma remains an issue).

Mankato East football star Braden Petzel signed his National Letter of Intent Wednesday, Dec.

3 in Mankato and will continue his athletic and academic career at Northern Illinois.

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.

World Junior Pre-Tournament Game: Switzerland vs Minnesota State

7-9:30 p.m. — Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center — Ticket details not available — Witness a thrilling pre-tournament match between Switzerland and the Mavericks ahead of the World Junior Championship.

IIHF World Junior Championship: Denmark vs Canada

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center — Tickets available — Witness Denmark face off against Canada in this exciting pre-tournament match.

New Year's Eve Celebration at The Venue

7:30 p.m. — The Venue — Check ticket price — Celebrate the New Year with a festive night in Mankato.