Good morning, Mankato.

Mankato will renovate the flood-damaged north side of Sibley Park with a new full-sized baseball field and a second dog park—replacing the old softball fields and parking lot.

City officials will seek public comment and use FEMA, municipal, and federal funds to finance the work set to begin in May.

At Minnesota State University, over 20 students protested gun violence while chanting for change as Director of Security Sandi Schnorenberg watched and explained that campus safety upgrades are being discussed—college officials and student groups are looking into measures like access card locks to prevent future incidents. These talks come after recent shootings at other local schools raised concerns about campus security.

Mankato officials are repurposing the 152-year-old Kern Bridge as a pedestrian crossing despite bids that are more than 15% above estimates—pushing the total cost past $10M and raising concerns for delays with the added expense of a connecting trail in Land of Memories Park.

Blue Earth County could see a 1.8% drop in its $51.9 million property tax levy if the preliminary figure is approved Tuesday—this may lead to reduced services as county leaders consider a county-wide furlough program and potential staff cuts for 2026 and beyond.

Today a reader asked where he can sit by the Minnesota River to enjoy a beer, noting the city’s claim as a river town.

City officials explained that current challenges—flooding risks, industrial land use and flood walls—limit riverside bars, though events at Riverfront Park and a future hotel restaurant may offer a taste of that experience.

Sioux Falls Cougars vs. Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks Football

2:00 – 3:30 p.m. — Blakeslee Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Watch as the Cougars and Mavericks clash in a thrilling college football matchup.

Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks Football Game

12:00 p.m. — Blakeslee Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on the Mavericks as they take to the field in an exciting football showdown.

Mavericks vs. Tommies College Football Showdown

12:00 PM – 5:02 PM — Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center — VIP ticket options available — Experience elite seating and a vibrant tailgate at the Mavericks' face-off against the Tommies.

Winona State Warriors vs. Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks Football

1-2:30 p.m. — Blakeslee Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of collegiate football as the Warriors take on the Mavericks.

A Night in Valhalla: Viking After-Dark Experience

7-11 PM — Great Northern Viking Festival — Tickets on sale now — Experience a night of mead, music, and Viking-themed merriment in an immersive setting.