Good morning, Mankato.

The YWCA is starting an adult banned books club that will meet starting September 22 at 222 Pfau St. The club will feature discussions (DEI) with books such as The Handmaid’s Tale and Beloved and will hold additional sessions in October, November, and December.

The Salvation Army in Mankato will host its annual Back-to-School Community Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday at 700 S.

Riverfront Drive for low-income K–12 students from Blue Earth County and North Mankato schools; the event offers free lunch + backpacks, shoes from the Shoe Truck + vouchers for the Family Thrift Store and requires participants to show state ID, proof of government assistance and guardianship.

Mommy + Me Co. opened a new maternity store on July 9 in downtown Mankato after operating online for a year to meet the needs of expectant mothers.

The store—located at 626 Front St—is open Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. and offers a range of maternity clothing and accessories.

Blue Earth County and Mathiowetz Construction Co. were fined over $35,000 for environmental violations during a 2024 highway reconstruction project on County Highway 13 when sediment discharged into the Blue Earth River and a nearby ditch.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency fined the county $15,036 and the contractor $20,050—penalties finalized after discussions and a settlement.

Blue Earth County and Mathiowetz Construction were fined over $35,000 by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for letting sediment run into the Blue Earth River near the Goose Road Bridge during construction on County Highway 13 last year — the county received a $15,036 fine while the contractor was fined $20,050.

North Mankato is considering safety and flood prevention improvements at the Lookout Drive and Lee Boulevard intersection with a community survey by MAPO.

Proposed changes include a flood wall, roundabouts, lane reductions and road realignments (steps designed to reduce flooding and accidents).

The Mankato City Council approved a $361,000 upgrade to the council chambers Monday night to improve safety and public access—moving the dais and eliminating one entrance for better security.

The project will begin on Dec. 9 and is expected to be largely completed by Jan. 7.

The Mankato West football team had a 5-4 record last year and lost early in the playoffs, and they are now practicing to bounce back in the 2025 season — showing their determination to improve.

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.