Kasson-Mantorville 2025 graduate Caisen Thome is heading to the University of South Dakota to play Division I football, continuing a family legacy that began with his father.
“Being at USD and following in my dad’s footsteps means a lot,” Thome said. “He’s someone I always looked up to, and now I’m living it. It’s a special thing.”

A black bear was spotted earlier this week in the northeast part of Dodge County, prompting local officials to issue a public advisory.
The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office said the bear is a small adult male, estimated to weigh between 125 and 150 pounds. Authorities believe the bear is likely passing through and poses no immediate threat if left undisturbed.

The 6th annual Larger than Life art display got off to a flying start Saturday morning at Riverside Park in Mantorville. In addition to the 29 images and one sculpture on display, this year’s opening event featured an art fair, music in the bandshell and food provided by the KM Lions Club and Mrs. Patty’s Sweet Treats. Musical entertainment was by Orchid Jane and The Midnight Hounds.

Mosaic Auto Group officially took ownership of Zumbrota Ford on June 11. The family-owned company, led by Moneer Nyazi of Zumbrota, purchased the dealership from longtime owner Steve Johnson.
The acquisition adds Zumbrota Ford to Mosaic Auto Group’s growing list of dealerships, which includes Mosaic Chevrolet and Mosaic Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Zumbrota, as well as Mosaic Ford in Lake City.

The Kasson Food Shelf is feeling the pressure of rising demand and a tightening food supply, reflecting a broader trend across Minnesota as food shelves statewide grapple with economic strain and federal funding cuts.
“We have certainly seen changes in the realm of food,” Kasson Food Shelf Manager Jami Morris said. “Right now, our food supply has slowed down quite a bit.”

As summer heats up in Dodge County, Ella Aarsvold, a senior at Kasson-Mantorville High School, is deep into her fair preparations, turning long days and steady effort into a showcase of her dedication to agriculture.