Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 1st of August.
Good morning, Mankato.
🏘️ Community
Local high school athletes were honored at a banquet this week — severe weather nearly hit Mankato but eventually passed without incident.
The city council also adopted new rules to manage public comment periods at meetings.
🎭 Culture
Local musician Pete Klug will give his final Golden Hour performance at the Wine Cafe as the concert series ends after five years of spotlighting local talent.
The series, which began during the pandemic to feature two bands sharing the stage (one selected by the host and one by the performer), will wrap up soon as organizer Colin Scharf moves on to a new chapter.
📰 Economy
Local growers are optimistic as summer crops flourish this month—helped by warm weather and enough rain to keep fields moist without causing problems.
Sweet corn and melons are now available at local markets and are meeting strong demand compared to last year.
🎓 Education
Les Norman, 82, a longtime superintendent who helped secure a new LCWM high school and improve the district's finances, died July 11 at Oak Terrace Memory Care in North Mankato due to complications from Parkinson’s disease.
He was known for his quiet leadership and community efforts—his work brought stability and growth to the local schools.
🌲 Environment
County officials closed a section of the Red Jacket Trail near Mankato after heavy rain caused washouts, unstable trail surfaces, and steep drop offs.
County staff are assessing the damage — the trail stays closed from south of the Red Jacket Trestle to County Road 33 until repairs make it safe.
The Red Jacket trail is closed indefinitely because minor landslides and damage to a timber bridge between Red Jacket Trestle and Blue Earth County Road 33 have raised safety issues.
Public works director Ryan Thilges said rain caused sediment to plug a culvert — prompting repair evaluations and a detour route for trail users.
🎉 Mankato Events
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Hosanna Golf Outing
12 p.m. — North Links Golf Course and Driving Range — $400 per team — Test your skills in a 4-person scramble to support the Hosanna Music Ministry.
Andy Grammer's Monster Tour
7:00 – 8:30 PM — Vetter Stone Amphitheater — Ticket sales start March 21 — Experience the energetic performance of Andy Grammer live in Mankato.
Emerson Lane Boutique Pop-up Sale
10 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Sibley Park — Free entry — Discover handmade gifts, cards, and home decor at this vibrant boutique sale.
Hairball Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — Vetter Stone Amphitheater — Ticket prices from $52 — Get ready for an electrifying performance by Hairball in Mankato's premier outdoor venue.
River Valley 100 Bike Ride
8 a.m. – 3 p.m. — LocAle Brewing Company — Free registration required — Enjoy a scenic bicycle ride through the Minnesota river valley with options for all skill levels.
Bearcats vs. Mavericks Football Game
6:00 – 7:30 p.m. — Blakeslee Stadium — All ticket sales are final — Catch the thrilling college football matchup between the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats and Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks.
🏠 Mankato Real Estate
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💼 Mankato Job Board
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📣 Mankato Announcements
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