“The Civic Center is located [in] what was the old downtown.  It changes from a basketball, hockey, to a stage floor in a matter of hours.  In just a short time it has established itself as one of the Midwest’s premier centers for meetings and entertainment.  With its 7,300-seat arena, large banquet/exhibit hall, state-of-the-art conference center and unique reception hall, it can deliver any event that you can imagine.  It has [featured]. . . concerts,. . . meetings. . . conferences. . . receptions, industry exhibits, . . . ice shows, live action sports, and . . . even the rodeo. . . . The reception hall is a beautiful landmark; it was originally the First National Bank of Mankato.  Built in the early 1900’s, the structure was renovated and restored in order to maintain its original beauty and character.  It is the cornerstone of the Civic Center.