Winona Chronicle

Your Window to the Bluffs Since 2026

Winona, Minnesota

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  • Winona State Warriors Earn NCAA Division II Softball Regional Bid

    The Winona State University Warriors softball team has earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Division II Central Regional tournament, marking the program’s fifth regional appearance in seven years.

    The Warriors finished the regular season 38-12 overall and 22-6 in NSIC play, led by junior pitcher Megan Kowalski, who posted a 1.87 ERA with 198 strikeouts. Senior shortstop Ava Reinhardt led the offense with a .412 batting average and 14 home runs.

    “This team has earned everything they’ve gotten,” said head coach Greg Jones. “The way they’ve competed all season, especially down the stretch, shows the character in this dugout.”

    The Warriors will open regional play Friday against Missouri Western at the Augustana University complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The double-elimination tournament runs through Sunday.

  • City Council Approves $30M Riverfront Revitalization Project

    The Winona City Council voted 5-2 Monday evening to greenlight a $30 million riverfront revitalization project that will transform the city’s Mississippi River waterfront into a year-round destination for residents and visitors.

    The plan calls for an expanded riverwalk stretching from Levee Park to Prairie Island, a new kayak and canoe launch facility, a bandshell for outdoor performances, and a restored wetland habitat along the river’s edge. Two seasonal food pavilions and a winter warming house are also included.

    “Our riverfront is Winona’s greatest asset, and this plan finally treats it that way,” said Mayor Sarah Lindgren. “This project connects our downtown to the river in a way that hasn’t been possible in decades.”

    Funding comes from a mix of state bonding dollars, federal recreation grants, and a dedicated tax increment financing district. Construction on the first phase begins in September, with full completion expected by 2028.