Good morning, Mankato.

Partners for Housing broke ground on Poplar Apartments, a nearly $10 million building offering 40 affordable rental units for those at risk of homelessness in Mankato.

The agency reserved a city-owned parcel for a 24/7 shelter and is working with United Way + HUD to fund the second phase.

Mavs in Action, a student volunteer group at MSU, supports local needs by organizing book drives and supply collections for kids and families.

The group logged 523 volunteer hours in 2025 + 278 this year while continuing to expand its community service projects.

GreenSeam presented its report at the Maverick Innovation Gateway Tuesday showing that many ag businesses are tightening spending amid rising costs & tax pressures while 57% still expect growth in 2026.

The report highlights agriculture’s $105 billion impact and efforts to maintain capacity amid ongoing challenges.

A new report from the Mankato-based Center for Rural Policy and Development shows rural counties are now experiencing modest population growth from inward migration after decades of decline, though the aging population may soon reverse this trend–potentially straining local workforces.

Mankato Public Safety resumed its Lights On!

MN voucher program on Monday, March 23 — restoring a service paused in July 2025. The department now provides 100 vouchers, each worth up to $250 for light repairs at selected repair shops.

Mankato East boys basketball team advances to its fifth straight state tournament and will face Northfield today at noon at Williams Arena.

F1RST Wrestling: LIVE!

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Kato Ballroom — All ages welcome — Catch thrilling live pro wrestling in Mankato, Minnesota!

Free Oral Cancer Screenings in Mankato & Rochester

In honor of Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, Southeastern Minnesota Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery will offer free oral cancer screenings on April 16 from 2 pm to 4 pm at: 2519 Commerce Drive NW, Suite 110, Rochester, Minn., 55901; and 1410 Madison Avenue, Mankato, Minn., 56001. To participate, arrive at one of the clinics during the designated times and ask for a free cancer screening.

Toy Stories on Ice

7-9 p.m. — All Seasons Arena — $10 adult, $5 youth/senior/student — Experience a charming retelling of Toy Story featuring local skaters portraying beloved characters.

Toy Stories on Ice – 51st Annual Ice Show

7-9 p.m. — All Seasons Arena — $10 adult, $5 youth/senior/student — Experience the beloved characters of Toy Story brought to life through local figure skating talents.

Micro Wrestling Federation Show

7-10 p.m. — Kato Ballroom — All-ages show — Experience thrilling micro wrestling action with body slams, brawls, and the chance to meet the wrestlers post-event.