Good morning, Mankato.

The Senior Games returned to Mankato today at MSU Mankato after a two-year break, drawing 342 participants from 18 states to compete in 15 events such as track and shuffleboard.

Mankato will host the games next year and that event will double as a qualifier for the national games (organizers noted).

Benya Kraus, 29, began leading the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation in June after Tim Penny—who led for 18 years—stepped down, and she toured the region with him to learn about local needs and share her support plans for civic engagement in southern Minnesota.

This appointment marks a new chapter in the foundation's work and reflects her deep roots in the area.

Autumn Acres Farm in Janesville opened its 2-acre sunflower patch on Sunday, offering visitors a scenic display from 10 a.m. to sunset for $4 per person.

A Mankato YMCA ForeverWell group will tour the patch at 10 a.m. today, and local yoga sessions led by Melissa Mayo are set for Monday and Thursday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. & include hayrides and photo stations.

MSU senior defensive lineman Hansen (a former Waseca star and NSIC Defensive Player of the Year from Bemidji State) returns home to Mankato to start his final college season with the Mavericks.

Minnesota State is preparing for its regular season opener on August 28th against Northwest Missouri State — the team is adjusting its roster through the transfer portal and coming off an NCAA semifinal run that saw a strong ground game averaging over 170 yards per game.

MSU football got off to a fast start at fall camp, and head coach Todd Hoffner said the team was working hard before the season.

A tight quarterback contest is shaping up + players are fighting for the starting role going forward.

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.

Minot State Beavers vs. Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks Football

1-2:30 p.m. — Blakeslee Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on the Beavers as they take on the Mavericks in this exciting college football matchup.