Good morning, Mankato.

This weekend, local events include the Nicollet County Fair at 400 W.

Union St. in St. Peter, the Brown County Free Fair in New Ulm, and farmers’ markets in Mankato and St. Peter. Historical programs at the Hubbard House and Historic Ottawa Town Hall and live music at local wineries and community venues offer a varied lineup—providing many options for residents.

Brooke Garvey will open Tiny Roots on Oct.1 at 502 Grove St. SE in Mapleton—an in-home daycare built by the Mapleton Economic Development Authority with a $175,120 grant from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and additional local funds.

She will start with five children—planning to eventually care for about 10 children between 6 weeks and 7 years old.

Patrick Lease and Lynn Koosman-Lease are appealing a June court decision that favored Mankato Township in a lawsuit over a proposed Blue Earth County public works building at the corner of County Roads 90 and 16 — about 1½ miles south of Mankato.

They claim the building will bring noise, light, and other pollutants that lower property values and have filed an appeal with the Minnesota Court of Appeals.

A local resident reported a dead animal on southbound Highway 169 that looked like a cougar but turned out to be a deer with a broken leg that made it resemble a mountain lion tail.

City Manager Susan Arntz explained that old street lights on Riverfront Drive were replaced with new decorative lights—designed to match Old Town’s historic style—as the originals no longer illuminated properly.

State and local officials warned that the federal budget package passed on July 4 will cut SNAP and Medicaid funds, forcing leaders to consider tax hikes or service cuts in schools, libraries and hospitals—Blue Earth County plans to reduce 11 full-time jobs while St. Peter reworks its budget.

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.