Good morning, Mankato.

Local nonprofits have long faced volunteer and staffing shortages — Greater Mankato Growth hosts its annual volunteer fair today to help organizations connect with new volunteers to support community programs.

This event aids groups that feed, house, educate, and care for residents in need.

A 4-year-old boy from Albert Lea was injured when two SUVs crashed at a Mankato intersection Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.—he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries at Mayo Clinic Health Systems while other passengers remained safe.

Authorities in Sibley County investigated an alleged dog-napping after a pooch missing from its Henderson home since Thursday was seen riding in a FedEx vehicle and returned to its owners Sunday— the case was submitted to the county attorney’s office.

Former MSU dean Jane Earley died on Aug 1 at 85 after a long career supporting students and the arts + a community memorial will be held at 2 p.m. Oct 4 at the Earley Center's Ted Paul Theatre to honor her legacy.

Several area schools were named by the Minnesota Department of Education for using PBIS to promote positive behavior in school.

Mankato East High School along with Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial Secondary, Sibley East Elementary, Tri-City United Le Center K-8, and Waterville-Elysian-Morristown schools will be honored today at a ceremony hosted by MDE Commissioner Willie Jett.

Local leaders from businesses, government, nonprofits and higher education will travel to Wichita on November 5 to 7 for an Intercity Leadership Visit to study strategies for job growth, affordable housing and workforce development.

City Manager Susan Arntz and Council member Dennis Dieken will represent Mankato while another official may join, and the trip costs $2,495 for private sector participants and $1,875 for nonprofits—Mankato is not joining the international trip to Ireland.

A $115,000 state grant from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development was awarded to support the first phase of the Poplar Apartments project—set on a 1.56-acre city-owned lot near Cub Foods West—that will provide housing and support services for people at risk of homelessness. The project—developed by Trellis Co., the city, Blue Earth County and local nonprofits—is expected to open in 2026 and may later include a shelter.

The Saint Peter Saints are preparing for a strong season as Head Coach Justin Helget has started a sprint-based program to keep players fresh—helping them play well on offense and defense.

The team built on a disciplined offseason effort with a focus on versatility to turn its work into wins.

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.