Good morning, Mankato.

Young entrepreneurs aged 5 to 17 will showcase mini businesses at the Kids Maker Market during Fun Days on July 12 at Wheeler Park, where vendors include Kian and Nolan Long, who raised $700 selling lemonade and cookies last year, with registration (closes July 7) still open.

St. Peter conservation officer Mitch Nowak now works with his new yellow Labrador Hank in the DNR’s statewide K9 unit to spot zebra mussels, show locals how to inspect boats, & engage children through school visits and fairs.

Construction that was planned to close Riverfront Drive has been postponed; the road will close Tuesday, July 7 in the evening and remain closed until Wednesday, July 8 with detours along Plum Street, 2nd Street, and Main Street for crews pouring concrete for the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge deck.

Rural hospitals across Minnesota face hard times as new federal Medicaid cuts will reduce funding & may force service reductions starting late 2026.

Medical leaders are working with communities to prepare so patients might soon have to travel farther for care.

On Monday and Tuesday, the Mankato Figure Skating Club hosted its first-ever summer camp where about 70 skaters trained with Olympian figure skater Surya Bonaly and coach Peter Biver—focusing on both on-ice and off-ice techniques to build their skills.

DCI: Drum Corps International

5:30-10 p.m. — Blakeslee Stadium — All Sales Final — Experience thrilling performances from elite drum corps at this exciting community event.

Billy Currington Concert

7 p.m. — Vetter Stone Amphitheatre — Tickets available — Enjoy live country music under the stars with Billy Currington.

Lee Brice Concert

7:30 p.m. — Vetter Stone Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Country music superstar Lee Brice brings his hit-making voice to Mankato with new singles and fan favorites.