Good morning, Mankato.

A free family event, Hard Hats on Belgrade, will support local businesses affected by construction from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday near the American Legion club in North Mankato (if weather is poor, the event will be held on June 16).

An art retrospective featuring works by Brad Widness + Ann Kronlokken Widness opened on June 5 at the Arts Center and will run through July 25.

The exhibition includes a window display of steel sculpture by Andy Reeves and had a free reception on Friday from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Mapleton Fire Department reported its lowest staffing in three decades — only 17 of 32 firefighter positions are filled — as retirements and departures outpaced new applications; the department is boosting recruiting efforts through open houses and social media.

State Auditor Julie Blaha said a 2025 federal law cutting Medicaid left 31 Minnesota hospitals in distress, with Mayo Clinic closing southern clinics and local hospitals struggling to pay payroll via credit.

The warning stressed that rural communities faced higher costs + poorer care.

The LCWM softball team won the Class AA state title Friday with a 3-2 win over Visitation and finished a perfect 27-0 season, marking a thrilling end to their campaign.

Great Northern Viking Festival

3:30 p.m. — ISG Field — Cost info not provided — Celebrate Viking culture with music, storytelling, and delicious food.