Good morning, St. Cloud.

A WalletHub study ranked Minnesota the fourth most charitable state based on high volunteer rates and donation levels.

The ranking comes ahead of November 20th's Give To The Max Day, when local organizations will collect online donations—highlighting the state's strong community spirit.

Waite Park Menards is collecting children’s toy donations until Dec.

14—donation boxes are at the store’s front exit at 251 10th Ave S, as last year’s drive delivered over 19,000 toys to more than 4,500 children. This effort will help families facing challenges during the holiday season.

Green Mill in downtown St. Cloud is renovating its large dining area and now offers only takeout and delivery orders while work continues—locals who love its deep dish pizza, a favorite since 1975, look forward to the reveal.

Comedian Jason Schommer and musician Michael Shynes will perform at Happy Ha-Ha-Ha-Lidays in St. Cloud, St. Michael and Little Falls this holiday season—featuring comedy, storytelling and live music that includes a new Christmas song—promising a festive night for local audiences.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota will hold its Youth Arts Initiative 2025 Winter Showcase on December 3rd at the Eastside Boys & Girls Club in St. Cloud—doors open at 5:45 p.m. for the visual art exhibit and the stage performance starts at 6:30 p.m. with free admission.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources clarified that placing grains or other food to lure deer is baiting — while leaving planted food plots on agricultural land is not baiting.

The rule, posted on social media and based on statute 97B.328, helps hunters understand legal feeding practices.

The Minnesota DNR clarified that placing bait such as grain to attract deer is illegal while planted food plots are not considered baiting.

The rules help hunters follow the law as the season moves forward—ensuring clear boundaries for legal practices.

Metro Bus announced holiday schedule changes for the Northstar Link route on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day, with no rides on the major holidays and only morning service on Christmas Eve.

The route connects St. Cloud to the Northstar train, which will give its last rides about a week later—ending the direct connection.

The St. Cloud Planning Commission has selected five downtown sites for new design concepts using innovative 3D modeling technology—sites include the soon-to-be-vacated Stearns County Justice Center and other key locations.

Community Development Director Matt Glaesman said public open houses in February and March will let residents explore the virtual models and share input.

Jordan Barth, a standout for the St. Cloud Rox and a Cold Spring native who played college ball at Augustana, was drafted in the second round by the Texas Tailgaters of the Banana Ball league—his season will begin on March 28.

Zonta Christmas House 2025

2-8 p.m. — 1408 Antler Creek Ct — Entry fee supports a good cause — Explore stunning holiday décor while supporting women’s education and empowerment.

Cathedral's Winter Gala 2025

5-10 p.m. — The Park Event Center — $115 individual tickets, $1,500 for a table — Experience a vibrant evening filled with dining, entertainment, and a live auction supporting student programs.

St. Cloud SCHEELS Holiday LEGO® Build Event

9 AM – 1 PM — Scheels — Free entry — Build a festive LEGO® Holiday Train and take it home while enjoying family fun.

St. Cloud Ballroom Dance Club

5:30-8 p.m. — Sta-Fit — Affordable entry — Learn the basics of ballroom dancing and enjoy a fun evening of music and dance.