Good morning, Mankato.

Julie Tesch, president of the Center for Rural Policy and Development, will speak at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept.

9, at the Free Press Media office on 418 S. Second St.—her lecture 'Shifting Landscapes: Understanding Migration Patterns in Minnesota' will discuss challenges for the state’s rural workforce. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning for the Minnesota River at New Ulm with minor flooding expected from today afternoon until Thursday evening as the river is forecast to crest at 801.3 feet early Sunday afternoon.

BENCHS is caring for over 100 cats—50 are ready for adoption—and has half-off adult cat fees to help clear space urgently needed at the shelter.

Executive director Dede Barton said every available room is now being used until more pets find their forever homes.

MANKATO—The 77 Lancers’ annual fundraiser, now called Pie in the Ball Park, will be held at ISG Field with ballpark fare starting at 5 p.m. Sunday and proceeds going to the Lancer Parents Association to help cover operational costs and ensure all students can join.

Minnesota State University in Mankato welcomed its new Mavericks as 1,500 students moved in yesterday during a busy four-day window, with over 400 student volunteers in gold hats helping to direct traffic — keeping the move running smoothly.

Families and students now look ahead to Welcome Week events starting Sunday night as the campus fills with boxes and excitement.

Barring an extended rain delay, the $2.8 million Victory Drive reconstruction project in Mankato will reopen soon so that K-12 students and university staff can travel without detours — officials warn that wet conditions may push the reopening into the first week of school.

Henderson officials said that the Minnesota River’s crest measured 733 feet has been revised downward, which may allow the town to avoid flooding and keep Highway 19 open.

Mayor Keith Swenson noted the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is reviewing record flood levels from 2024—raising hope for smoother travel and continued business access downtown.

Mankato will host its annual fentanyl awareness event this Sunday at Ray Erlandson Park from noon to 3 p.m.—the event is run by the family of Travis Gustavson, who died of fentanyl poisoning in 2021, and will feature speakers, law enforcement, and free Narcan to help fight the opioid crisis.

The Mankato East girls' soccer team beat Red Wing 14-1 in the season opener as head coach Miranda Rauenhorst played her first game (a strong win for the Cougars) and the result sets high hopes for moving forward (with plans to build on this success).

Mankato West boys soccer lost 4–2 in their season opener at home—New Prague scored early to secure the win.

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.