Good morning, St. Cloud.

McDonald's restaurants are donating nearly $160,000 from Shamrock Shake sales to nine Ronald McDonald House Charities in Minnesota and North Dakota—259 stores from central Minnesota, including St. Cloud, took part from February 10th through March 23rd.

The fundraiser has raised over $1 million in 11 years—each 25-cent donation from a shake helping support local charity homes.

Yesterday, Pope Francis died after a long illness, and local leaders in St. Cloud remembered him as a kind man who cared for the poor and all people.

Saint Benedict’s Monastery held a prayer service—its joint candlelight pilgrimage with the College of St. Benedict will soon honor his legacy.

Bishop Patrick Neary said he was deeply saddened by Pope Francis’ passing after the pontiff died on Easter Monday at 88 from a bout of double pneumonia.

He recalled meeting the pope in 2023 during his assignment in Uganda—he added that the pontiff’s final words were 'A blessed Easter.'

Superintendent Michael Rivard said the district must adjust its budget by $750,000 for the 2025-2026 school year by using $600,000 from the fund balance to cover an 11.5% shortfall and that staff cuts are expected—state funding has lagged behind inflation and rising unfunded mandates. He noted the district has reviewed positions for over a month to lessen the impact on students.

Starting today the inner eastbound and westbound lanes on Veterans Dr/8th Street N from 25th Ave N to 29th Ave N are closed for utility work until mid-May, and one lane in each direction will remain open — drivers should prepare for lane shifts at intersections and follow posted signs.

Veterans Drive between 25th and 29th Avenues North is narrowed to one lane in either direction for utility work starting today.

Officials warn drivers that access from 26th—29th Avenues will be difficult and lane use may shift until mid-May if weather allows.

Lawyers requested a closed hearing over Commissioner Leigh Lenzmeier’s guardianship case, and Judge Bowen postponed the review to Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.—raising uncertainty over the board meeting scheduled for today that could have led to his removal.

The decision follows concerns over sensitive medical records and conflicting claims about his mental capacity.

Tonight at 6:00 p.m., the City Council will review a report showing that 14 miles of resurfaced roads developed 100 cracks in nine months and postpone $2.3 million in property assessments for sewer, street, and sidewalk projects as staff study the work quality—addressing neighbors’ concerns. The council will also set public hearing dates for proposals to repurpose the Welcome Center, convert a former Tim Hortons, and rezone the Fingerhut building site for a go kart track and attractions.

Crews will begin utility work on Veterans Drive today that will close the inner two lanes (from 25th Avenue North to 29th Avenue North) through mid-May.

One lane per direction will be maintained, though access to intersections may be limited and closures may shift to the outer lanes.

SAFe® 5.1 Lean Portfolio Management Training

9 AM – 1 AM — St. Cloud, Minnesota — $1299 early bird — Gain practical tools for implementing Lean Portfolio Management in a hands-on training course.

C. Willi Myles Comedy Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Paramount Center for the Arts — Tickets required — Experience the humor of America’s Everyday Comedian with relatable stories from life in the South to Minnesota.

Song of Wisdom: Old Turtle in Concert

The St. John's Prep Orchestra, Band, and Choir present "Song of Wisdom" based on the book "Old Turtle" and narrated by the author, Douglas Wood. This free show is Monday, May 5th at 7:00 at the Stephen B. Humphrey theater on the campus of St. John's University.

Battle of the Bands featuring Slip Twister

6:30 p.m. — Paramount Center for the Arts — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of local high school bands competing and a special performance by the legendary Slip Twister.

Magic The Gathering - Commander League

7-10:30 p.m. — Sneak Attack's Games — $10 — Compete in Commander League and earn points towards exclusive Magic The Gathering rewards.

Mother's Day Lunch Celebration

12-2 p.m. — Millner Heritage Vineyard & Winery — $39.95 per person plus tax — Treat Mom to a gourmet buffet with live music and handcrafted drinks.

Somali Dance Musical

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Paramount Center for the Arts — Experience the beauty of Somali culture through vibrant dance, music, and storytelling.

The Everly Set Concert

1:30-7:30 p.m. — Paramount Center for the Arts — Check event page for ticket information — Celebrate the iconic harmonies of The Everly Brothers with an afternoon of classic hits performed by Sean Altman and Jack Skuller.

Eagles Tribute Concert by The Fabulous Armadillos and Collective Unconscious

7:30-10 p.m. — Pioneer Place On Fifth — Cost varies — Enjoy an unforgettable Eagles tribute performance featuring exceptional harmonies and musicianship from local favorites.

SAFe® 5.1 Lean Portfolio Management Training

9 AM - 1 AM — St. Cloud, Minnesota — Early Bird Price $1299, Regular $1899 — Gain practical tools for implementing Lean Portfolio Management functions.