Good morning, St. Cloud.

Xcel Energy completed the third phase of its Sherco Solar project in Becker today, making it Minnesota’s largest solar facility with 710 megawatts (MW) of power.

A planned fourth phase will boost capacity to 910 MW by 2029 and create 300 union jobs with $90 million in local benefits.

Parents getting ready for back-to-school are advised by Scheels shop manager Kelsey Stewart to buy extra athletic gear, like additional socks and compression clothing, along with quality backpacks.

Classes start the week before Labor Day and shoppers are reminded to also pick up on-the-go snacks.

Last week, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture offered free nitrate testing for private wells at Farmfest to help owners check for health risks from farm runoff + advise on treatment options.

Officials encouraged regular testing to keep drinking water safe.

District 4 Town Ball playoffs saw four Class B teams advance today — St. Joseph’s Joes, Sauk Rapids Cyclones, Isanti Redbirds and Cold Spring Springers recorded key wins with strong pitching and timely hitting at local fields.

The Rox finished their season with a 7-2 win over Minot Saturday as Jack Haag threw six scoreless innings.

The team will begin their playoffs Sunday in Willmar in a best-of-three series.