KTOE Noon News 7-8-25

Top Stories for Noon 7-8-25:

• Nicotine Free Greater Mankato Coalition Launches Love Your Lungs Campaign

• Model T Ford Club International Tour Coming to Owatonna July 21-25

• UPDATE: Lake Kohlmier Reopens after Bacteria Levels Return to Normal

• A Minnesota State Patrol trooper who drowned in South Dakota will be honored today in her hometown. The funeral for 33-year-old Mollie McClure is set for 11 a.m. at Jackson County Central High School in southwestern Minnesota. McClure, who served in the St. Cloud district, died June 29th while boating on Waubay Lake when she went into the water and, at some point, wasn’t able to keep swimming. She went underwater before she could be rescued.
• The Rochester City Council is giving the green light to the initial design of a proposed sports and recreation complex. The plan includes eight baseball/and softball fields, two soccer fields, 12 pickleball courts, a playground, and walking trails. The design was approved by a five-to-two vote. Some council members were concerned about how to fund phase 2 of the project. Ward One council member Patrick Keene was adamant that the funds would not come from another sales tax
• The American Red Cross is urging people to donate blood or platelets as summer shortages grow more likely. Severe weather and vacation schedules often lead to fewer appointments, especially for type O blood, which is in high demand. Minnesota spokesman Alex Zidarevich says shortages can directly affect patients in the hospital. To schedule an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org.
• The Mankato/North Mankato Area Planning Organization (MAPO) is preparing a draft of the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP), expected to be available in fall 2025. As we shape the future of transportation systems in our region, we want to hear from you! Imagine you have $100 to invest in the region’s transportation system. How would you spend it? Let us know by taking a quick survey on our website before July 8, 2025. Your input will help guide transportation investments and priorities for years to come. Visit our project website to learn about the update process and schedule: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/6e1c5c18bf224a998de23a3b0fc81c33
• Join the North Mankato Activities & Business Association for the 2025 Fun Days celebration from July 9th – 13th! Tickets and wristbands are available for purchase at City Hall through Wednesday, July 9th. Enjoy carnival rides & games, the North Mankato Fire Department’s beer garden, live music, BINGO, food & drink, kiddie parade, a roll-in car show, and more! Learn more about Fun Days on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/NMFunDays or their website: www.northmankatoactivities.com