Good morning, Mankato.

Local animal shelters have struggled with rising pet surrenders and higher veterinary costs, leaving facilities at capacity—rescue groups now are joining forces to connect owners with aid.

Officials reported that a cat hoarding incident led to over 20 rescued cats and that 8,721 pets were surrendered in 2024, so groups are recruiting 100 donors—each pledging at least $10 monthly to help cover care expenses.

On Thursday evening a 2005 Buick LaCrosse crashed near Minneopa Golf Course when it left the roadway, wedged between trees and caught fire; the Blue Earth County Sheriff’s Office rescued 60-year-old driver Susanne Renee Stephens Moe, who was taken to Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato with non-life-threatening injuries.

Mankato’s 2024 water tests showed that drinking water met federal standards for lead, copper and other contaminants with levels well below EPA limits — similar tests in North Mankato and St. Peter confirmed safe drinking water.

Some communities face concerns over emerging contaminants and are planning upgrades to their treatment systems with proposals for new funding.

Mankato’s municipal dog park at Kiwanis Recreation Area is mowed once a week during the summer when the ground is firm—rain has sometimes delayed the schedule.

Officials explained that the extra left-turn arrows at the Balcerzak and Victory intersection give clear guidance to drivers and may serve a future extension of Balcerzak if plans move forward.

North Mankato City Council will present a study on Lee Boulevard at a work session Monday that shows plans to improve intersections, address flooding, and boost road safety.

The report, funded by the Mankato and North Mankato Area Planning Organization & prepared by Bolton and Menk, outlines design alternatives including traffic control changes and flood protection measures.

Ashley Krug left her job and has volunteered at Ecumen Hospice since 2020, visiting patients at home, assisted living, or nursing homes and offering vigilance in their final 72 hours.

Her work eases family burdens by providing calm company and friendly activities—like reading or playing gentle music—during hard times.

Minnesota Senior Games will return to Mankato from Aug.

7 to Aug. 10 after a break lasting two years, offering older athletes a chance to compete in 14 events — pickleball, cycling, basketball, running, and tennis. Competitors will pay $55 for up to five events with an extra fee for more and can look forward to friendly competition as they stay active.

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.