Nicollet County Ledger June 23, 2024

June 23, 2024 | South Central News & Media

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Heavy rains cause road closures across south central and the southwest corner of Minnesota MANKATO, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation is closely monitoring road conditions in south central and the southwest corner of Minnesota due to flooding caused by heavy rains.

Several roads are closed due to flooding, and the situation continues to change. Officials warn that roads may be closed or restricted without warning as flash flooding is difficult to predict. MnDOT advises motorists to drive with caution and check www.511mn.org for updates.

As of 8:00 am on June 21, the following highways are closed or have traffic restrictions: Westbound Interstate 90 from Worthington to Luverne. Closed.

Eastbound Interstate 90 from Luverne to Adrian.

Closed.

Highway 13, south of Waseca. Closed, temporary detour.

Highway 86 (two miles south of I-90). One lane is closed.

Highway 91, north of Adrian. Closed, temporary detour.

Highway 75, Luverne to the Iowa border. One lane is closed.

Highway 19 east of Henderson. Closed, temporary detour.

MnDOT crews will continue to monitor flooded highways and will open them as soon as it is safe to do so. Highways and bridges impacted by floods need to be inspected for damage and safety prior to opening.

When a road is closed it is illegal to travel in that area. Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other expenses and penalties will apply.

Important: road conditions shown on 511mn.org only reflect state highway conditions. Please check with your county, city, and township for their road conditions and travel guidance.

For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota including road conditions, closures and detour routes, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.

UPDATE - No. 2: Update on south central highways impacted by flooding MANKATO, Minn. (11:20 a.m.) – The Minnesota Department of Transportation continues to closely monitor state highways in south central and the southwest corner of Minnesota due to flooding caused by heavy rains.

Highway 93 between Highway 169 and Le Sueur closed today (June 22) at 10:30 a.m. Motorists should use alternate routes.

Additionally, officials advise that the northbound lanes of Highway 169 north of St. Peter will be closed today (June 22) due to flooding. Traffic will be two-way (head-to-head), in the southbound lanes for approximately two miles. The speed limit will be reduced to 55 MPH in this area. When MnDOT reconstructed Highway 169, it raised the southbound lanes to handle both north and southbound traffic on Highway 169 and added crossovers for traffic switches.

MnDOT advises motorists to check www.511mn.org before they travel and be prepared for quickly changing conditions as roads may be closed or restricted without warning. Additionally, drivers should be alert for potential mudslides and use caution if encountering debris on the roadways.

Highways CLOSED or have traffic restrictions as of 11:20 a.m. on Saturday, June 22: Highway 93, between Highway 169 and Le Sueur. Motorists should use alternate routes. (closed June 22).

Northbound Highway 169, north of St. Peter. Traffic head-to-head in the southbound lanes. (June 22) Highway 4 near north of St. James. Lane closed near Butterfield Creek. (June 22) Highway 14 near Janesville. Traffic detoured to 1st and S Main Street in Janesville. (closed June 22) Highway 60 north of Heron Lake to Worthington. Traffic detoured to I-90 and Highway 86. (closed June 22) Highway 30 east of Westbrook. Lane closed. (June 22) Highway 30 east of Mapleton. Temporary detour. (closed June 22) Highway 99 Minnesota River bridge, St. Peter. Traffic is detoured to Le Sueur County Roads 21 (Golf Course Road), Shanaska Creek Road, and Highway 22. (closed June 21 at 7 p.m.)

Highway 60 in Windom, near the Junction of Hwy 71. Lane restrictions. (June 21) Highway 59, north of Worthington. Lane restrictions in multiple locations. (June 21) Highway 13 in Waterville. Lane restrictions (June 21)

Nicollet County Ledger P.O. Box 212, Lafayette MN 56054

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Highway 19 east of Henderson. Traffic detoured to Highway 19 west of Henderson, Sibley County Road 17 (391st Avenue), Sibley County Road 8 (336th Street), and Highway 169. (closed June 19) Highways OPEN: Highway 75, south of Luverne to the Iowa border.

Highway 91, north of Adrian Highway 86 (two miles south of I-90). Lane restriction removed.

Highway 13, south of Waseca Eastbound Interstate 90 from Luverne to Adrian.

Westbound Interstate 90 from Worthington to Luverne Ramps at Highway 169/Lookout Drive, Mankato Highways being MONITORED with potential to close or have lane restrictions: Highway 99 east of the Minnesota River bridge Highway 62 near Windom Highway 71 near Jackson MnDOT crews will continue to monitor flooded highways and bridges and over the weekend and will open them as soon as it is safe to do so. Highways and bridges impacted by floods need to be inspected for damage and safety prior to opening.

When a road is closed it is illegal to travel in that area. Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other expenses and penalties will apply.

For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota including road conditions, closures and detour routes, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.

Important: road conditions shown on 511mn.org only reflect state highway conditions. Please check with your county, city, and township for their road conditions and travel guidance.

Phone: 507-246-6248 • Fax: 507-228-8779 Website: http://nicolletcountyledger.com/ Email: info@nicolletcountyledger.com

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Sunday, June 23, 2024

Highway 19 east of Henderson to Highway 169 expected to close due to flooding MANKATO, Minn. – Highway 19 from Henderson to Highway 169 is expected to close either later tonight (June 17), or on Tuesday, June 18 due to flooing from the Minnesota River, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Current forecasted river levels indicate that historically the highway could be closing sometime soon. Motorists should monitor www.511mn.org for current road information.

With Highway 93 closed due to construction, traffic will be detoured to Highway 19 west of Henderson, Sibley County Road 17 (391st Avenue), Sibley Road 8 (336th Street), and Highway 169 (detour map attached), or motorists will need to find an alternate route. Sibley County Road 6 is also closed due to construction.

Highway 19 will reopen to traffic when the water has receded, and crews are able to make any necessary repairs.

When a road is closed it is illegal to travel in that area. Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other expenses and penalties will apply.

For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota including road conditions, closures and detour routes, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.

Important: road conditions shown on 511mn.org only reflect state highway conditions. Please check with your county, city, and township for their road conditions and travel guidance.

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar, Tina Smith, Minnesota Fire Chiefs Celebrate Passage of the Fire Grants and Safety Act WASHINGTON, DC –U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) issued the below statements after the Senate passed the Fire Grants and Safety Act, bipartisan legislation to continue providing federal funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant programs. This bill now goes to the President’s desk to be signed into law. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program helps firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources. The SAFER Grants program provides direct funding to fire departments and volunteer firefighter organizations to increase or maintain the number of trained "front line" firefighters and enhance their capacity to comply with staffing, response, and operational standards. Since 2015, fire departments across Minnesota have received over $33 million in SAFER grants and $59 million in AFG grants.

“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to save lives. We need to invest in our local fire departments and ensure that they have the funding they need to hire and train firefighters and purchase life-saving equipment,” said Senator Klobuchar. “That’s why I worked to pass the bipartisan Fire Grants and Safety Act which will support fire departments in Minnesota and across the country.”

“Firefighters do one of the most difficult jobs possible, often at the risk of immense personal injury, to keep our families and loved ones safe. This funding is our way of giving them the support they need to do their jobs as safely and effectively as possible,” said Senator Smith. “This bill means better equipment to protect firefighters on the job, increased funding for departments to hire additional firefighters, and ensures departments get the staff and resources they need to be ready to go in case of an emergency. I am proud to support this legislation.”

"The AFG FIRE and SAFER grant programs are vital for providing federal assistance to Fire Departments across the State of Minnesota as they struggle to provide funding for modern, safe, equipment and adequate levels of staffing to keep their communities safe,” said Eric Bullen, President of the Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association.

“These programs are vital to us. Fire Grants and Safety Act programs give our cities and fire departments the funding we need to provide firefighters with equipment and staffing to keep people safe. It’s crucial to us that it is in effect and fully funded,” said Thomas Thornberg, 5th District Vice President of the International Association of Fire Fighters.

“Small volunteer and paid on-call fire departments rely heavily on AFG dollars to replace critical equipment and apparatus. These items are crucial to firefighter safety,” said Ely Fire Chief Dave Marshall. “Without a doubt, AFG funding allows community fire departments to fulfill their commitment in saving lives and property.

“The AFG Program is paramount to the future of the fire service. As costs for fire departments are constantly increasing, we definitely need this type of assistance,” said Virginia Fire Chief Scott Fredrickson.

“This is a great program that really helps out fire departments, especially those in the rural parts of Minnesota,” said Steve Shykes, Fire Chief for Fayal Township.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant has been a critical component in helping fire departments purchase apparatus, protective gear & life- saving equipment, to ensure we can continue to meet the emergency response needs of our communities,” said Jesse Buhs, Fire Chief of the Cloquet Area Fire District. “The continuation of this program will be very impactful to the long-term sustainability of fire departments across the US.”

LEDGER COMIC - As We Flood, The Media Converge. South Central MN...

Sunday, June 23, 2024

Nicollet County Ledger

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Nicollet County Commissioners to Discuss Health Services, Infrastructure, and Public Works Saint Peter, MN — The Nicollet County Board of Commissioners will convene on June 25, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. in the Nicollet County Government Center Board Room. The meeting, led by Board Chair Terry Morrow, will address a range of topics from health and human services to infrastructure projects.

The meeting will begin with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a reminder to silence cell phones. After approving the agenda and consent agenda, the commissioners will hear public appearances.

Health and Human Services Starting at 9:05 a.m., the board will consider a request for a change in compensation for on-call responsibilities within the Health and Human Services department. Additionally, there will be a position request for a Public Health Planner.

Property Services At 9:15 a.m., Property Services will present the results of the June 10, 2024, Planning & Zoning Advisory Commission Meeting, which includes the PLN24-05 project by River Valley Enterprises LLC and Lorentz and Sons Construction Inc. A services agreement with Houston Engineering, Inc. will also be considered.

Public Works By 9:25 a.m., the board will discuss the final payments for two significant projects: SAP 052-623-027 and SAP 052-599-027. These projects are critical to maintaining and improving the county’s infrastructure.

Administration At 9:35 a.m., the commissioners will deliberate on a resolution to grant authorization for the Educate Identity and Access Management Program. Additionally, they will consider a limited use permit for a snowmobile route.

Following these discussions, updates will be provided by the County Attorney, and reports will be presented by the Chair and commissioners regarding their committee activities, meetings, and conferences. The meeting will conclude with the approval of per diems and expenses before adjournment.

Drainage Authority Meeting Immediately following the Board of Commissioners meeting, the Drainage Authority will convene at 9:50 a.m. The agenda includes the approval of the June 11, 2024, Drainage Authority minutes and consideration of Ditch Repair Reports 24-011 through 24-016. Public appearances will be heard before discussing drainage maintenance. The Drainage Authority meeting is expected to adjourn by 9:55 a.m.

Upcoming Meetings July 4: Closed in observation of Independence Day July 9, 2024: County Board of Commissioners Meeting at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Drainage Authority Meeting July 16, 2024: Individual Department Head Meeting (HR) at 8:15 a.m., followed by a Board Workshop at 9:30 a.m.

July 23, 2024: County Board of Commissioners Meeting at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Drainage Authority Meeting July 24, 2024: Nicollet Township Association Meeting at 7:00 p.m. at the Nicollet American Legion July 26, 2024: BNCH Full Board Meeting at 9:00 a.m. in New Ulm For more information or to participate in any upcoming meetings, contact Nicollet County Administrator Mandy Landkamer at 507-934-7074 or mandy.landkamer@co.nicollet.mn.us.

North Mankato: Judson Bottom Road Closed Due to Flooding Judson Bottom Road Closed Due to Flooding North Mankato, Minn. Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, June 21st, Judson Bottom Road will be closed due to flooding and rock and mudslide concerns. The road will be closed from Lookout Drive to Valerie Lane until further notice. The river level is rising quickly, and the public is urged to avoid entering the area for any reason. Staff will continue to re-examine the road closure and monitor the situation and condition of the road for potential re-opening.

Questions may be directed to the Public Works Department at 507-625-4141.

U.S. Senator Tina Smith, Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan Celebrate First-Ever Trade Mission Focused on Indigenous Products Trip follows push from Senator Smith for greater Tribal inclusion on USDA trade missions MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan (DFL) announced the first-ever trade mission by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) focused solely on Indigenous products. Lieutenant Governor Flanagan will join Red Lake, Inc. in representing Native producers from Minnesota on this historic trade mission to Canada from June 17-20 alongside 15 Tribal agribusinesses and 13 Native agricultural leaders from across the country.

“This is a historic opportunity for Native farmers and producers and Tribal businesses to access a new market for their goods. Native farmers and producers face unique and challenging barriers, and this market access will make a huge difference,” said Senator Smith. “I pushed hard to get Tribes and Native communities represented on these trade missions. I’m delighted to see such a historic trip finally come to fruition, and it will be a great benefit to not just Red Lake Nation, but the rest of Indian Country as well.”

“Native farmers and producers feed our families and the world,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “I am proud to lift up Native agriculture as a standard part of our Minnesota trade missions. I am looking forward to connecting with more Native farmers and producers and showcasing the products that Minnesota has to offer to our global partners. Indian Country has always led in agribusiness and innovation, and I am grateful for Senator Smith’s partnership and work to ensure my community is at the table for these important opportunities and conversations.”

“Red Lake, Inc. honored and beyond excited to participate in the first ever Indigenous focused trade mission. Acknowledging the unique barriers that tribal producers face while recognizing the important role that market access in meaningful economic development for Indigenous communities is a monumental step for Indian Country,” said Jake Robinson, Chief Development Officer for Red Lake, Inc. “The opportunity to showcase our products and develop meaningful business relationships in Canada is made possible by the advocacy and dedication from elected officials like Senator Smith and Lt. Gov. Flanagan.”

Senator Smith, a member of both the Senate Agriculture and Senate Indian Affairs Committees, pushed for the inclusion of a provision in the 2018 Farm Bill that directed USDA to include Tribal Nations in trade delegations.

That provision was passed by Congress and signed into law. In 2023, Red Lake Inc. became the first Tribal agribusiness to participate in a trade mission and has since joined missions to the Netherlands, Japan, Chile, and India.

Indigenous products represent the deep cultural traditions of Native peoples, and Canada holds great potential for Native producers. Canada is one of the United States’ most reliable trading partners and consistently ranks among the top markets for agricultural exports, with over $28.2 billion in exports in 2023 alone. According to the USDA Census of Agriculture, American Indian/Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian agricultural production contributes $8 billion each year to the U.S. food economy. Members of the delegation will also take part in high-level policy discussions on barriers for Indigenous producers in the United States and Canada.

North Mankato Community Events May 28, 2024 Parks Survey Open now through Friday, June 28th North Mankato needs your input! North Mankato is currently updating the Parks Plan and wants to hear from residents who frequently utilize the park and trail system. Resident input will provide necessary information for the City to plan for future park amenities that meet citizen needs. Residents can complete surveys for any and all North Mankato parks at the following link: www.northmankato.com/2024-park-surveys. Flyers advertising the surveys will also be posted in all North Mankato parks.

Printed surveys are available upon request. Surveys will be active through June 28th.

Contact: City Planner Matt Lassonde: 507-514-6456 or matthewl@northmankato.com North Mankato Farmers’ Market Now Accepting Vendors & Sponsors The North Mankato Farmers' Market is now accepting vendors for the 2024 season! Learn more & apply online at www.northmankato.com/farmers-market. Mark your calendars to join us for our 8th season this summer, beginning June 3rd and ending October 14th. The market will be held at South Central College (1920 Lee Blvd.) on Mondays from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. Contact: 507-625-4140 2024 Street & Alley Paving Schedule City crews and contractors are continuing work on the annual street & alley paving project. This includes repairs to curbs, gutters, and storm drains, new pedestrian ramps at intersections, and mill & overlay paving. During these projects, detours and/or altered parking may occur. Please see the list below of alleys that will be affected. Dates are tentative and subject to change.

• June 3rd - June 13th o Lyndale St. & Stewart St. Alley o Wall St. & Lyndale St. Alley o Range St. & Wall St. Alley Contact: Public Works Department at 507-345-5570.

Now Hiring for Seasonal Positions The City is still hiring for the following seasonal positions: • Swim Facility Lifeguards • Caswell Parks Maintenance • Caswell Sports Leagues officials and Youth Sports coaches & staff • Public Works Staff (Street & Water Department) Learn more & apply on our website at www.northmankato.com/employment-opportunities Receive City of North Mankato Public Alert Notifications Residents can now receive alerts & community updates by text message and email! • To sign up for Emergency Alerts: text 56003 to 888777 • To sign up for Community Events: text NMCOMMUNITY to 888777 • To sign up for Taylor Library events: text NMLIBRARY to 888777 • To sign up for Caswell Sports Alerts: text CASWELL to 888777 • To sign up for Construction and Traffic alerts: text NMCONTRAFFIC to 888777 • To sign up for Swim Facility alerts: text SWIM to 888777 • Sign up at www.northmankato.com/public-alerts-sign-up or call 507-625-4141 Caswell Sports Section Softball Caswell Park – 1875 Howard Dr. W. Tuesday, May 28th: 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Thursday, May 30th: 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Contact: 507-625-9189 Behind the Mask Caswell Park – 1875 Howard Dr. W. Saturday, June 1st – Sunday, June 2nd

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Nicollet County Academic Achievements Local students named to Marquette University's spring 2024 Dean's List MILWAUKEE, Wis. (June 17, 2024) - The following students have been named to the Dean's List for the spring 2024 semester at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

To make the Dean's List, students must have earned at least 12 credits for the spring 2024 semester and have no disqualifying grades. The GPA threshold varies by college for the College of Education and the Klingler College of Arts and Sciences, undergraduate students must have at least a 3.7 to be named to the Dean's List.

The undergraduate GPA requirement is 3.5 for the following colleges: the Diederich College of Communication, the College of Business Administration, the College of Health Sciences, the Opus College of Engineering and the College of Nursing. All other programs have a 3.75 GPA minimum.

Marquette University is a Catholic, Jesuit university that draws over 7,600 undergraduate and 3,700 graduate and professional students from nearly all states and more than 60 countries. In addition to its nationally recognized academic programs, Marquette is known for its service learning programs and internships as students are challenged to use what they learn to make a difference in the world. Find out more about Marquette at marquette.edu.

HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME, PURSUING DEGREE, PLAN Saint Peter, MN Anna LoFaro, Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering Norah Timmerman, Bachelor of Science, Middle/Secondary Education Saint Peter's McKenna Aune among the 6,500 students graduated this spring from the University of Iowa IOWA CITY, IA (06/20/2024)-- In May, more than 6,500 University of Iowa undergraduate, graduate, and professional students received their degrees, a group that included McKenna Aune of Saint Peter, MN. Aune was a student in the College of Law whose academic program of study was Law. The degree awarded to Aune was a Juris Doctor.

Like Aune, the 2024 spring semester graduates have engaged, excelled, and stretched to reach their academic goals.

For example, Abbi Shekleton always knew she wanted to be a Hawkeye; it was a happy coincidence that Iowa has a highly ranked program in speech pathology, her academic area of interest. With a master's degree in hand, Shekleton will begin a clinical fellowship in Cedar Rapids, followed by a full-time position there as a speech-language pathologist.

Brian Damman, a senior legal counsel at a financial technology company in Des Moines and father of three, was able to add valuable perspective to his job while also maintaining a busy home life by completing Iowa's online MBA program.

Sushma Santhana, a biomedical engineering graduate, worked in a campus lab to help create hydrogels to prevent skin wound infections and now is headed to a job at Boston Scientific.

Benton Renaud combined his academic work in finance and political science with his extracurricular work serving as a resident assistant and on the University Lecture Committee to pave a career path that is taking him to a two-year financial rotation with Boeing.

And Maggie McQuillen found the perfect fit for her active lifestyle in Iowa's exercise science program - the Anamosa, Iowa, native will help others reach and maintain their own fitness goals through her work as a personal trainer.

Sunday, June 23, 2024

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NORTH MANKATO CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 Contact: 507-625-9189 Caswell Sports & Mankato West Youth Football Camp Monday, July 22nd – Wednesday, July 24th: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. – Caswell North Soccer Complex Join the Mankato West coaching staff, as well as current and former Scarlet players at football camp this summer, hosted by Caswell Sports! Learn more and register at the following link. Come join us and sharpen your football skills! www.caswellsports.com/footballcamp Contact: 507-6259189 Culture & Rec Programming Summer Programming Registration Now Open Registration for our Summer 2024 programming is open! Check out all the youth recreational opportunities we have available this summer and view our 2024 Spring/Summer Programming brochure for a full list of offerings at www.northmankato.com/culture-and-rec. Contact: 507-5083267 Senior Exercise with Sandy Tuesday mornings from 9:15-10:00 a.m. – North Mankato Police Annex Join the Culture & Recreation department for this low impact exercise class for our active aging population. All fitness levels are welcome! Learn more and pre-register at https://app.amilia.com/store/en/cityof-north-mankato/shop/activities/4128827. Contact: 507-508-3267 Swim Facility The North Mankato Swim Facility is set to open for regular hours (noon - 6:00 p.m.) starting June 7th, weekend hours will be available starting Saturday, June 1st. Due to current temperatures and weather forecasts we will not be opening for Memorial Day weekend.

Check out our online calendar for real-time updates on limited open hours prior to June 7th. Sign up to receive direct text & email notifications of openings, weather-related closures, and other updates by texting SWIM to 888777.

Water Safety Event Friday, May 31st: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. – North Mankato Swim Facility Join us for water safety books, materials, and activities, bingo with the North Mankato Taylor Library, and a special swim (weather permitting)! Activities are free, the special swim is $5 (free to members).

2024 Swim Facility Programming 2024 Swim Facility Programming information is now live! Registration is open for swim lessons, fitness classes, birthday party packages, adult nights and more. Check out the swim lessons schedule and more information here: www.swimnorthmankato.com/programming. Contact: 507508-3267 Taylor Library Read & Play Mondays & Tuesdays: 9:30 a.m. – North Mankato Taylor Library Children ages 1-5 and their parents/guardians are invited to join us Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30am for educational play, games, stories, crafts and more!

Contact: 507-345-5120 LEGO Club Tuesday, May 28th: 4:00 p.m. – North Mankato Taylor Library Kids ages 6-11 are invited to join us for our monthly Lego Club! Registration required. Register by calling the library at 507-345-5120, stopping into the library or online at https://www.northmankato.com/library_calendar.php Adult Craft Night Wednesday, May 29th or Thursday, May 30th: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. – North Mankato Police Annex For May's Adult Craft Night we will be making pressed flower bookmarks! Choose the May 29th OR May 30th date when you register. There is no cost for this event. Registration required. Open to ages 18+. Register by calling the library at 507-345-5120, stopping into the library, or online at https://www.northmankato.com/library_calendar.php Anime/Manga Club Friday, May 31st: 6:30 p.m. – North Mankato Taylor Library Come hang out to read, share ideas and learn more about Manga & Anime. We'll be watching an Anime movie and snacks will be provided. Feel free to bring your own Manga drawings and/or graphic novels to share. Registration required. Open to ages 11-17. Register by calling the library at 507-345-5120, stopping into the library or online at https://www.northmankato.com/library_calendar.php NintenTones: Video Game Jazz Orchestra Saturday, June 1st: 4:00 p.m. – Storybook Park Join us in Storybook Park on Saturday, June 1st at 4pm for a performance from the NintenTones, a Video Game Jazz Orchestra! The show is free and open to the public. Contact: 507-345-5120 Blood Drive Wednesday, June 5th: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – North Mankato Police Annex Sign up for our Summer Blood Drive that will be on Wednesday, June 5th from 10-4pm in the Police Annex!

Please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit www.RedCrossBlood.org and enter: NMTLMN to schedule an appointment. Contact: 507-3455120 Movies in the Park Friday, June 14th: 7:00 p.m. (movie begins at dusk) – Spring Lake Park Bring a lawn chair or blanket and join us for Movies in the Park! Concessions available until 10:00pm. Movie starts at dusk.

Contact: 507-345-5120 ArtSplash Saturday, June 15th: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – South Central College (1920 Lee Blvd.) Enjoy arts & crafts vendors, food, music, and fun at ArtSplash! Register to be a vendor at https://app.amilia.com/store/en/city-of-north-mankato/shop/programs/89663 Contact: 507345-5120

ACADEMICS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 About the University of Iowa As a top global university, Iowa is the ideal destination for learning, discovery, and innovation. We bring art and science together to create a truly unique interdisciplinary education. With over 200 areas of study to choose from, students are encouraged to mix and match majors, minors, and certificates to earn a degree that reflects their unique interests.

From inside our world-class medical center to the most prestigious creative writing program in the U.S., students have access to quality academic support and are equipped with the tools they need to stand out in a competitive workforce. Our 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows students to work directly with experts in their field while earning valuable, practical skills.

Our campus seamlessly blends into the heart of downtown Iowa City, making it easy to access academic resources and belong to a larger, welcoming community. With over 500 student organizations, clubs, and communities on campus, and countless in-town events scheduled throughout the year, Iowa makes it easy to build a network of friendships and connections that last a lifetime.

Saint Mary's announces spring 2024 dean's list WINONA, Minn. (June 20, 2024) - Congratulations to the following undergraduate students, who were named to the 2024 spring semester Dean’s List at Saint Mary’s University. The list includes undergraduate students who earned a grade point average of 3.60 or better on a 4.0 scale.

About Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Grounded in Lasallian Catholic values, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota awakens, nurtures, and empowers learners to ethical lives of service and leadership. Whether in person or online, adult or undergraduate, students are treated with respect, taught with humanity, and supported by faculty and staff committed to their success in programs designed to prepare graduates for today's and tomorrow's careers. Founded in 1912 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota enrolls nearly 4,100 students at its undergraduate and graduate programs on campuses in Minneapolis, Rochester, Winona, and online. Saint Mary's offers a highly personal, real-world-ready educational experience that fully prepares students to work, lead, and serve with character and purpose. Learn more at smumn.edu.

HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME, CLASS YEAR Mankato, MN Kirsten Sims, junior Saint Mary's celebrates May graduates WINONA, Minn. (June 20, 2024) — The following Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota students completed requirements for bachelor of arts degrees in May 2024.

About Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Grounded in Lasallian Catholic values, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota awakens, nurtures, and empowers learners to ethical lives of service and leadership. Whether in person or online, adult or undergraduate, students are treated with respect, taught with humanity, and supported by faculty and staff committed to their success in programs designed to prepare graduates for today's and tomorrow's careers. Founded in 1912 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota enrolls nearly 4,100 students at its undergraduate and graduate programs on campuses in Minneapolis, Rochester, Winona, and online. Saint Mary's offers a highly personal, real-world-ready educational experience that fully prepares students to work, lead, and serve with character and purpose. Learn more at smumn.edu.

HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME, PARENT(S) Mankato, MN Abigail Lang, Roxan Lang Saint Peter, MN Matthew Johnson, James and Aimee Johnson St. Peter, MN Ella Boomgaarden, Mark and Laura Boomgaarden

Therapist Announces a Run for Congress Against Brad Finstad Press Release NORTH MANKATO, Minn. — Shawn Tweten, PhD, a licensed marriage and family therapist, has announced his candidacy for U.S. House of Representatives. Dr. Shawn will be a Republican primary challenger for the Congressional District 1 incumbent, Brand Findstad, in the August 13th state primary.

Dr. Shawn’s slogan is “Washington needs a therapist” and his motto, “Love your neighbor.”

Dr. Shawn says he is “running because there is so much division and fear at the capital. I want to be the member that promotes conflict resolution. When a couple or family or couple are in conflict, they might see a therapist. Now the country is in conflict, it needs a therapist.”

Marriage and family therapists are professionals who trained in helping systems work through conflict and mental health issues. Sometimes that system is a couple considering divorce. Sometimes that system is a family experiencing a mental health crisis. Dr. Shawn states, “Now the system is a congress in chaos.” The U.S. congress is to the point where members are challenging others to physical fights (Sen. Markwayne Mullin) and hurling insults at each other (Reps. Jasmine Crockett and Marjorie Taylor Greene). Dr. Shawn quotes Abraham Lincoln (who was quoting Matthew 12:25), “’A house divided against itself, cannot stand.’ People in congress are supposed to be on the same team serving for the betterment of the country, not fighting amongst themselves.”

Dr. Shawn continues, “So much political advertising is focused on fear. As a Christian, I do no believe in fear-based politics. The Bible says that ‘God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind (First Timothy 1:7). As a mental health therapist, I believe living in a constant state of fear is emotional unhealthy. I want to help change the political narrative. As a therapist, I believe change can start with any part of a system.

Congress is a system and I want to insert myself within the system to promote healthy change.”

Dr. Shawn has lived in the greater Mankato area for 15 years. He has four children. Shawn’s full-time job is working with Minnesota jails to provide mental health care and officer wellness. He has also done work as a substitute teacher in the New Ulm and Mankato school districts.

He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at Oak Hills Christian College in Bemidji, Minnesota; his Master of Science degree at Minnesota State University, Mankato; and his Doctor of Philosophy in marriage and family therapy at National University.

Dr. Shawn knows the importance of farming and manufacturing in Minnesota as this family members have jobs in both areas. Shawn also knows the importance of taking care of veterans and providing adequate mental health services to veterans and their families. . Please vote for Dr. Shawn on the August 13th Republican primary ballot and again in the general election on November 5th. Please read more on Dr. Shawn at www.electshawntweten.com.

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Nicollet County Ledger

Sunday, June 23, 2024

South Central College Names Dean of Business and Industry (June 5, 2024) – George Taylor III will assume the role of dean of business and industry for South Central College (SCC) beginning July 22. As dean of business and industry, Taylor will lead 22 academic programs in the areas of arts and information technology, building and design, business, manufacturing and transportation.

“I am honored and humbled to be selected as South Central College’s Dean of Business and Industry,” said Taylor. “The college’s history of developing competitive academic and workforce programs is well-established, and I look forward to working with SCC’s talented faculty, staff and administrators to build upon its strong foundation. I also look forward to working with business and industry partners and leaders, as well as four-year institutions, to make SCC a community college of choice. I am most excited about collaborating with college and community stakeholders to promote workforce development and business development pathways that lead to meaningful careers for our students and contribute to our economic landscape.”

Taylor currently serves in various capacities at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) in Marshall, Minnesota. He is the director of SMSU’s Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, executive director of the university’s Southwest Marketing Advisory Center and an assistant professor of management. He is the director of SMSU’s Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, executive director of the university’s Southwest Marketing Advisory Center and was recently promoted to associate professor of management. Prior to SMSU, he was at Tulsa Community College where he was a professor and program manager for the human resources and workforce development programs and contributed to several strategic committees.

In addition to his career in education, Taylor has contributed his talents in several business areas including serving as an organizational development consultant, an organizational researcher with a focus on higher education, a keynote speaker, and author of Blessed Strategy, a popular book and workshop series for entrepreneurs. Taylor credits his U.S. Navy service for helping grow his leadership skills, receiving several awards and medals throughout his distinguished enlisted-to-officer career. He has also been nationally recognized, receiving the Dr. David Pariser NCAA-II Faculty Mentor Award for 2024 and an invited and selected participant for the U.S. Secretary of State’s African Descendant Social Entrepreneurship Exchange.

Taylor is also dedicated to his community, currently serving as a member of the United Way Southwest Board and co-chair of diversity, equity, and inclusion for the City of Marshall. He serves on committees for the Launch Minnesota (Southwest) business start-up grant program and Southwest West Central Service Cooperative LYFT career and technical education pathways program.

“Dr. Taylor’s extensive background in industry and education, as well as his civic involvement, will benefit both our college and our community,” said Laura Attenberger, SCC Vice President of Academic Affairs. “I know he will be a valuable addition to our dedicated team of academic professionals.”

LeSueur County Sheriff’s Office: No Wake Restrictions in Place Press Release June 3, 2024 The Le Sueur County Sheriff’s Office has issued a “NO WAKE” restriction for the following Le Sueur County Lakes: Lake Sakatah and Lake Tetonka.

The restriction has been issued due to the abnormally high-water levels, which has created shoreline erosion concerns, submerged docks and excess debris in the lakes creating potential hazards.

“NO WAKE” is defined as operation of a watercraft at the slowest speed possible to maintain steerage, but in no case greater than 5 mph.

The Le Sueur County Sheriff’s Office will continually monitor lake levels and will issue notice as soon as the restriction is lifted.

Brett V. P. Mason Le Sueur County Sheriff

Major Construction in Project South Central MN NORTH MANKATO — A major construction project on the two major highways in South Central Minnesota will be getting under way in 2027, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). They say roundabouts are coming to Highway 169 in Mankato-North Mankato and are part of a two-year $70 million reconstruction and redesign of the highway system in the area. MnDOT hopes to have the project completed by 2028.

The project scope is major. The two highways represent some of the busiest traffic south of the Twin Cities and in the state. One highway connects to Rochester and Owatonna and the other to the Twin Cities metro. On Monday, North Mankato's city council joined Mankato's city council to get the details on the MnDOT project on Monday, June 3. MnDOT said there would likely be a road closure on Hwy. 169. A detour is expected.

The state wants to add two roundabouts along 169, including one at Webster Avenue in North Mankato. The construction area is extensive, running from near West High School on Riverfront Drive in Mankato all the way to the area near Happy Chef on the north end of 169 in the Mankato area. In 2027, a major section, from Belgrade Avenue to Lake Street on Mankato’s north side, will be completed. The roundabouts will eliminate several stoplights.

The construction is meant to eliminate a high rate of crashes that was found in the interchange area from a study conducted in 2021. The roundabouts will route business traffic thru to frontage road. A new street, Hiniker Parkway, will also be constructed. Bridge preservation work will also be completed as part of the project. Final plans won't be available until April 2026 and April 2027 for the north and south sections respectively, according to MnDOT. There will also be a public comment period coming. Businesses have expressed an interest in improving the overall look of the north end of 169 coming into the Mankato-North Mankato area.

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