Good morning, Mankato.

Last weekend, Scouts from across south-central Minnesota collected 61,038 pounds of food and cash donations during more than 3,000 service hours from about 1,100 participants and distributed them to 21 local food pantries—providing crucial support to families in need.

North Mankato police are investigating multiple reports of car break-ins, including one on the 700 block of Lyndale Avenue where a caller reported a suspect described as a tall man in a black hooded sweatshirt and wind pants who threatened him with a knife; additional incidents occurred on Belgrade and South Avenues and residents with security cameras are asked to review footage and call 507-625-7883 if they captured any images of the suspect.

North Mankato police are investigating a prowling incident on Monday evening when a suspect reportedly threatened a caller during a chase and was later linked to vehicle break-ins reported Tuesday morning in lower North Mankato—residents with surveillance cameras are urged to review their footage and report any images.

On Tuesday, a new report from the Commonwealth Fund and Milken Institute School of Public Health found that proposed Medicaid and SNAP cuts could cost Minnesota 18,200 jobs and reduce tax revenues by $178 million, with 16,800 losses tied to Medicaid in hospitals, nursing homes and grocery stores. Local residents in Mankato have urged Rep. Brad Finstad to hold an in-person town hall to address concerns+the report warns that such cuts may further strain local health care and food industries.

GreenSeam released its sixth annual 2025 State of Ag Report on March 18 in St. Paul, showing 63% of survey respondents felt agribusiness is improving.

Experts like Steve Formaneck noted concerns about government uncertainty and low commodity prices (with increased input costs and regulatory challenges adding to the issue) that could affect the growing industry.

Mankato Public Safety seeks public comment on proposed upgrades to its 542 surveillance cameras by adding 13 new cameras near major roadways and using mobile camera trailers during events.

The plan—meant to enhance searches for missing persons and crime suspects—is set for City Council review on April 28.

Blue Earth County's new public works campus at County Roads 90 and 16 is making steady progress with the walls of its 97,000-square-foot building up and most storm water ponds dug — water and sewer lines have been extended solely for the campus despite a pending lawsuit by nearby homeowners over the conditional-use permit. The project is on track to become operational in the first quarter of 2026.

Spring Fling Craft Show

10 AM – 8 PM — River Hills Mall — Free admission — Discover a variety of handmade products and unique gifts from local vendors at this vibrant spring shopping event.

Spring Fling Craft Show at River Hills Mall

The Spring Fling Craft Show showcases an array of handmade products and unique gifts from local vendors over a three-day period.

Real Estate Meetup in Mankato

6-8 p.m. — Crooked Pint Ale House — Free entry — Discuss real estate with local experts and network with fellow investors.

Dual-ing Pianos with Scottie Miller & Tom Hunter

11 AM – 3 PM — Centennial Student Union — Ticket prices vary — Experience the dueling talents of acclaimed pianists Scottie Miller and Tom Hunter in an entertaining musical showdown.

Spring Fling Craft Show

10 a.m. – 8 p.m. — River Hills Mall — Free admission — Explore a vibrant array of handmade products, unique gifts, and local vendors at this spring shopping event.

Natural Healing Expo

10 AM – 4 PM — Courtyard by Marriott Hotel & Event Center — Ticket required — Explore organic approaches to healing for body, mind, and spirit at this holistic conference.

Spring Fling Craft Show

10 a.m. - 8 p.m. — River Hills Mall — Free admission — Discover a vibrant marketplace filled with handmade goods and local treasures this spring.

Maverick Conference on Financial Success

11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. — Centennial Student Union — Free entry — Learn from experts in Agribusiness and personal finance education at this informative conference.

North Mankato Taylor Library Annual Egg Hunt

9-11 a.m. — North Mankato Taylor Library — Registration required — Enjoy an exciting egg hunt for kids and meet the Easter Bunny!

Cinderella

12:59 p.m. — Minnesota State University Theatre & Dance — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Cinderella with beloved songs and a timeless story of hope.