Good morning, Mankato.

Our Savior Lutheran Church started 75 years ago when papers were filed in an old streetcar barn and is celebrating its diamond jubilee this Sunday—church officials say the event honors its long history in Mankato.

Retired Mankato developer Curt Fisher donated $50,000 last Thursday from his Curt and Debbie Fisher Fund to launch a $3M effort that will transform a local quarry into Rockwell Mountain Bike Trails — a 16-mile free mountain bike system featuring Fisher Family Falls.

Local officials are urging business leaders and biking enthusiasts to contribute additional funds for design, materials and land costs as planning continues with construction set to begin next winter.

A Florida man, Gregory Lee Caldwell, 32, has been charged with aiding and abetting check forgery after investigators in St. Peter linked him to a multi-person fraud scheme using stolen checks and IDs—rental records and surveillance footage tied his actions to a silver Volkswagen SUV rented from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

City Manager Susan Arntz said that the $14 million renovation of All Seasons Arena is nearly finished after 16 months of work — both rinks are on schedule and ready for team practices before the 2025-26 hockey season starts.

A formal reopening celebration is planned for the third week of September.

Congressman Brad Finstad addressed local leaders at a Greater Mankato Growth roundtable this week where he discussed challenges in trade, the 2018 farm bill—highlighting SNAP funding—and issues with immigration, fentanyl trafficking, and tariffs.

He also noted his response to climate risks by sending a letter to Canada about summer wildfires affecting local air quality and urged residents to follow up with his staff.

North Mankato City Council will vote Monday on a Climate Action Plan—developed with input from over 200 residents—that sets goals to cut greenhouse gas emissions and aims for $44.2M in net savings by 2040.

The plan targets six sectors including transportation, buildings, and waste management and will guide staff reviews for future progress.

The Leo A. Hoffmann Center in St. Peter is losing about $50,000 a month after its daily rate dropped by $60 per child—forcing the center to seek grants and other funding options to maintain its in-patient services.

The shortfall may lead to closing the facility if additional support is not secured.

After falling short in the section finals, Mankato East football returns with renewed confidence and experience as it prepares for the new season—using last year’s setback to fuel its determination for future success.

Wide receiver TreShawn Watson scored nine touchdowns last season and is preparing for the upcoming Minnesota State football season — he said his past success will help guide his leadership on the field.

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.