Good morning, Mankato.

Mankato man Aaron Lavon Hampton, 48, was charged after a Minnesota River Valley Drug Task Force conducted controlled buys in July and August—search warrants at his North Mankato home and vehicle led to 27.9 grams of cocaine being seized.

Mankato police responded to multiple disturbances in College Town on Friday and Saturday — several people were injured though none were life-threatening, and officials are investigating while working with property management to review safety protocols.

Mankato West High School postponed its open house due to ongoing construction that left the air conditioning off and the parking lot incomplete; a transformer outage also disrupted power and internet access.

Despite the cancellation, classes will begin as scheduled with freshmen starting Monday and other students beginning Tuesday—work funded by a $105 million bond passed in 2023.

Mankato Area Public Schools will share their 2026 financial plan in September and hold a tax levy hearing on Dec.

2 with approval set for Dec. 15. Superintendent Paul Peterson said the district is beginning to work with state formulas and watching federal funding closely—down by about 10% to $4 million—as they plan for the new school year.

Professor Jason Kaufman uses Star Trek — a famous show — to teach leadership, ethics and management skills in his classes while co-authoring books that gather essays from experts to explain these lessons.

His work shows how pop culture can offer clear examples for learning new skills.

The Jackson County Central Huskies finished a perfect season in 2024 and will defend their Class AA state title in the upcoming season—local fans are eager to see if they can repeat last year's success.

Retired Mankato obstetrician Steve Penkhus won both the 5K and 10K cycling races at the National Senior Games in Des Moines on July 30-31 in the 80-85 age group, finishing in 8 minutes 7 seconds and 16 minutes 46 seconds respectively.

He rides daily on his favorite Sakatah Singing Hills Trail—his regular route—and said cycling is excellent exercise while fellow cyclist Paul Matson praised his enduring stamina.

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.

53rd Annual Traditional Mahkato Wacipi

7 p.m., 1 p.m. — Land of Memories Park — $8 general admission, free for children and seniors — Celebrate Dakota culture with dance, music, and traditional festivities at this vibrant powwow.