Good morning, Mankato.

Mankato’s Free Press reporters were honored at the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists awards banquet for their work in enterprise, column and editorial writing.

Reporter Mark Fischenich won first place for his story on roundabouts—News Editor Kathy Vos earned second for her editorials on jail practices and local development challenges.

A 44-year-old Mankato man, Johnathan David Rosillo, was arrested on Wednesday during a traffic stop east of Eagle Lake for having methamphetamine in an amount that fits a first-degree crime and for obstructing officers—he now faces new felony charges for first-degree possession and sales while he remains out on bail for past offenses.

ST. PETER — Rising water levels on the Minnesota River forced county officials to close the east side of Seven Mile Creek Park about 4 miles south of St. Peter and the park tunnel under Highway 169.

The river measured 24 feet Wednesday afternoon and officials will continue to monitor the situation for potential flooding.

Families are flocking to local campgrounds for this holiday weekend as bookings at Minneopa and nearby parks quickly fill ahead of Independence Day.

Officials said sites will be completely booked soon — many campers plan to arrive early and stay through the weekend.

Wynonna Judd Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Vetter Stone Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of powerful country music with Wynonna Judd.

Nitro-X Summer Camp

8 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Minnesota State University, Mankato — Registration required — Engage in hands-on activities exploring careers in transportation through RC car racing and teamwork.

Warren Zeiders Concert

7-9 p.m. — Vetter Stone Amphitheater — Ticket sales begin February 21 — Experience Warren Zeiders live as part of The Relapse Tour.

Mankato Habaneros vs. Wausau Ignite

6:35-8:05 p.m. — ISG Field — Ticket prices vary — Catch the live action as the Mankato Habaneros take on the Wausau Ignite in an exciting softball showdown.

Wausau Softball vs. Mankato Habaneros

5:05-6:35 PM — ISG Field — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an exciting double-header of softball action at ISG Field.

Minot Honeybees vs Mankato Habaneros

5:05-6:35 p.m. — ISG Field — Ticket prices may vary — Enjoy a thrilling baseball game while supporting a good cause.

Thunder Bay Border Cats at Mankato MoonDogs

6:35-8:05 p.m. — ISG Field — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting baseball matchup under the evening sky.

2025 Celebration of Agriculture

4-9 p.m. — ISG Field — Free entry — Celebrate the strength and innovation of the agriculture community while enjoying a game with the Mankato MoonDogs.

Bismarck Larks vs. Mankato MoonDogs Baseball Game

6:35-8:05 p.m. — ISG Field — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling matchup between Bismarck Larks and Mankato MoonDogs live on the field.

United Way Campaign Kickoff: Game Show Edition

12-1 p.m. — Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center — Free event — Test your knowledge in a fun game show format while enjoying lunch and competing for cool prizes.