Good morning, Mankato.

Habitat for Humanity broke ground on its first veterans build in Eagle Lake for Michael Huiras and his family as local groups lend support to the project.

A Bike Build Home fundraiser will be held on Wednesday, July 15 at Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato.

Facing a national lifeguard shortage, Flandrau State Park has limited pool hours to Thursday through Sunday this season after closing early on July 5 due to staffing issues — park officials urge qualified candidates to apply when new job listings open in February.

Chick-fil-A will open its first standalone restaurant in Mankato this summer as part of a statewide expansion that will add five restaurants and create over 100 local jobs (details to come).

DFL candidate Jake Johnson held a roundtable with local farmers in St. James on Thursday that focused on rising input costs for tractors and hog pens and discussed recent federal policy changes impacting agriculture.

The discussion highlighted challenges rural communities face amid uncertain export markets.

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.