The Cottonwood County Sheriff's Office says the crash happened around 1:10 p.m. Friday at the intersection of County Roads 7 and 13, involving two SUVs and a semi.

A Subaru SUV was being driven east on County Road 13 when its driver failed to stop at a stop sign, entering the intersection with County Road 7, where it collided with the southbound semi.

A Buick SUV that was north on County Road 7 was also struck in the incident.

The Subaru driver, 29-year-old Sean Goodman, of Slayton, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The two people in the Buick, a 42-year-old woman and a 12-year-old child, and the driver of the semi were all hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.

The collision remains under investigation.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

The festival at Harriet Island in St. Paul will featureThe Strokes, The Lumineers, Black Keys, Matchbox Twenty, Geese, and Cage the Elephant, among a pile of other pop and rock acts from July 17–19.

While the obvious attraction is the music, promoter C3 Presents is inviting in a parade of local food vendors to the festivities, ensuring there are solid food options on offer (even if some of those are only accessible to GA+ ticketholders). 

On Friday, the fest shared the lineup of vendors that will dish up meals throughout the festival grounds, including many Twin Cities-based restaurants and food trucks like El Burrito Mercado, Roon’s Savories, Bao Bao Buns, and Smash & Grab.

Here’s a look at the lunch and dinner options at Minnesota Yacht Club in 2026. 

• Bao Bao Buns
• Ben & Jerry’s
• Bennett’s Chop and Railhouse
• Chicken x Waffles
• Coast 2 Coast
• Corndog Inc. 
• Cookie Cruiser
• Dank Nugs
• El Burrito Mercado
• Flavors of Dubai x Dirty Pop Soda Shop
• Hebros Cheesesteaks, Tenders, Dogs and More
• Hebros Gyro, Falafel and More
• Hippo Pockets
• Hot Box Wraps
• Island Noodles
• Jupiter Moon Ice Cream
• Just the Meats
• Kennedy Concessions
• King of Pops
• Lobster Rolls and More
• Lost Pelican Lemonade
• Lumpia Bros. 
• Pizza Nova
• Roon’s Savories
• San Matteo Pizza
• Smash & Grab
• Smashcity Smashburgers
• SOGO
• Spacebunz
• Tica’s Tacos

For the more ardent planners among attendees, a map is available on the fest website, showing where vendors will be set up and which ones are only accessible with a GA+ wristband.

Slows, but doesn’t stop. We’ve got a stadium concert, a festival in downtown Minneapolis, and other gigs worth a valuable evening of your summer. 

Here’s what you can catch on this holiday week between days off, hot dogs, and fireworks.

Usher and Chris Brown

Tuesday, June 30 at U.S. Bank Stadium

The second stop of Usher and Chris Brown’s “The R&B Tour” — aka “The Raymond and Brown Tour” — will take place at the home of the Vikings. The voices behind a mountain of chart toppers like “My Boo,” “U Got It Bad,” and “Kiss Kiss” are hoping the allure of enduring hits outweighs their collective controversies.

Alternatively, there are some excellent local shows to catch, many of which have free entry. Those include Pop Wagner at the 331 Club and the New Havoline Supremes at The White Squirrel Bar.

Tiny Desk Contest on the Road

Tuesday, June 30 at Fine Line

NPR’s long-running in-office concert series, the Tiny Desk Concert, is on the road. In each city, it features the Tiny Desk Contest winner along with a pair of handpicked local groups.

This year’s winner is the Dallas-based Cure For Paranoia, the project of rapper Cameron McCloud. The show calls his music is “playful and political,” and adds that he’s a preschool teacher by day. For the Minneapolis installment, his group will be joined by Riley & the Urban Revival and Sadie-Gustafson-Zook. 

Wale and Smino

Thursday, July 2 at The Fillmore

Veteran DC rapper Wale is wrapping up his tour with Zero Fatigue founder (and cousin of Denzel Curry) Smino at The Fillmore on Thursday. Wale's talent has been praised since his debut mixtape, "Paint a Picture." But his enduring appeal is his ability to fuse other sounds with that go-go bounce. There’s a confessional thread running through his eighth studio record, “Everything Is a Lot,” which includes collaborations with Leon Thomas, Ty Dolla $ign, Nino Paid, Shaboozey, Andra Day, and an Afrobeat-inspired track with Nigerian rapper ODUMODUBLVCK.

Over at the Cedar Cultural Center, the Mexico City-based Sonido Gallo Negro will bring its tropicalia to town, with Mexican-American songwriter Rudy De Anda in the opening slot.

Taste of Minnesota

Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4 in downtown Minneapolis

Taste of Minnesota is back in downtown Minneapolis over the weekend. This year, the entire two-day fest is focused on locally-forged talent. Friday will feature a trio of rock acts: Polica, Dillinger Four, and Bad Bad Hats. Saturday opens with the high-energy rock of Gully Boys, but most of the day leans toward hip-hop, with Brother Ali, Ant, and Nur-D on the schedule. 

Meanwhile, on Thursday, The Shackletons will bring their straightforward rock ‘n roll to the Green Room, accompanied by Colorado's Mystee and the locally based Killed By Kiwis.

Wynonna Judd and Melissa Etheridge

Sunday, July 5 at The Ledge Amphitheater

Two legendary singers of the ‘90s are coming together in Waite Park on Sunday. While both had their biggest hits in the ‘90s (or, more specifically, solo hits, in the case of Judd), both are still putting out records.

Etheridge released her 17th LP, “Rise,” earlier this year. The record has an Americana bent, which makes it a fitting companion for a tour with Judd. For her part, the 62-year-old Country Music Hall of Famer — inducted with The Judds — will release “The Hard Truth” in October. She calls her first solo studio record in a decade an album of “heartbreak, healing, faith, and survival.” There will surely bit hits alongside a taste of the new tracks.

Concerts on Monday, June 29

• Anders Osborne at The Dakota
• shugE with Average Joey and Ditch Pigeon at Pilllar Forum
• Pop Wagner at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• Sylvia May at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• Roe Family Singers at 331 Club (free)
• SeaWeeds at Lake Harriet Bandshell (free)

Concerts on Tuesday, June 30

• Chris Brown and Usher at U.S. Bank Stadium
• Tiny Desk Contest on the Road at Fine Line
• CANCELED: Babyface Ray and 42 Dugg at First Avenue
• Haley Reinhart at The Dakota
• River Shook with Andrew Sa at The Parkway Theater
• Bright Young Things with of the orchard, anni xo, and Matcha Fever at Green Room
• Kurt Deimer at Zhora Darling
• Duck Bomb with Iodine and Public Service Announcement at Pilllar Forum
• Pop Wagner at 331 Club (free)
• Sawtooth Witch and MAY at 331 Club (free)
• The New Halvoline Supremes at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• Aeris and the Piggies at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• Lili Horizon at Father Hennepin Park (free)

Concerts on Wednesday, July 1

• Mindi Abair at The Dakota
• ToppOppGen at Fine Line
• Larry McDonough Quintet: Jazz Music + Movie Series presents “Blue Moon” at The Parkway Theater
• Off Wax (feat. Tailor Briann) at Berlin
• Puppeteers for Fears presents “Robopocalypse: The Musical!” at The Cedar Cultural Center
• Betty Won’t at Como Park Zoo (free)
• The Second Stringers at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• Late Night TV with Witness Trips and Third Date at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• The Cherry Pit Open Jam at Berlin (free)
• Cabin Fever at Lake Harriet Bandshell (free)

Concerts on Thursday, July 2

• Wale and Smino at The Fillmore
• Sonido Gallo Negro at The Cedar Cultural Center
• Super Diamond: The Neil Diamond Tribute at First Avenue
• Abinnet Berhanu’s Ahndenet feat. Genet Abate with Amanuel Tsegaye of Tizita Sounds at Berlin
• Eric Roberson at The Dakota
• If Eye May with John Kerns and The Sandies at Pilllar Forum
• Ken Pomeroy at 7th St. Entry
• Uptown Cover-Up at Aster Cafe
• Emmy Woods and The Red Pine Ramblers at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• TH3 at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• David Huckfelt’s Mystery Lights at Animales BBQ (free)
• Prairie Potluck Band at Minnehaha Bandstand (free)

Concerts on Friday, July 3

• Taste of Minnesota feat. Polica, Dillinger Four, and Bad Bad Hats in downtown Minneapolis (free)
• Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso at The Fillmore
• Cole Diamond birthday show and EP release with Cowboy Thoughts, Lone Rock Bride, and Turn Turn Turn at Turf Club
• Hekler with Gawm at The Loft at Skyway Theatre
• The Shackletons, Mystee, and Killed By Kiwis at Green Room
• Ladies of Soul: Celebrating the ‘Waiting to Exhale’ Soundtrack at The Dakota
• Grave Ripper at Zhora Darling
• Feleka Hailu with Rediet at Berlin
• Terrapin Stallion at 7th St. Entry
• Drowning in Blood with Parasite, Bare Knuckle Brawl, and Major Malfunction at Pilllar Forum
• Marvelous at Aster Cafe
• Bryan Nichols Trio at Berlin (free)
• Phantom Fields, Nato Coles & the Blue Diamond Band, and Jeff Larson Band at 331 Club (free)
• Meghan Kreidler at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• Nectarous with Fine Dials and Love Scar at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• Maurice Jacox and We Still R at Animales BBQ (free)
• Tjärnblom at Minnehaha Bandstand (free)
• Bryan Nichols Trio at Berlin (free)
• Minneapolis Pops at Lake Harriet Bandshell (free)

Concerts on Saturday, July 4

• Taste of Minnesota feat. Brother Ali, Ant, Dessa, Nur-D, and Gully Boys in downtown Minnesota
• Davina and the Vagabonds at The Dakota
• Kill Safari at The Loft at Skyway Theatre
• Critter Nova and The Snake Chaser at Pilllar Forum
• Tramps Like Us at 331 Club (free)
• The Whiskey Charmers with Aeris Ewing at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• Loki’s Folly at The White Squirrel Bar (free)

Concerts on Sunday, July 5

• Wynonna Judd and Melissa Etheridge at The Ledge Amphitheater
• Natania & Ticket to Brasil at The Dakota
• Musicians for Birds and Related Animals with Intercourse and Ice Climber at Pilllar Fourm
• Obi Original at the Black Atlantics at Icehouse
• Brass Messengers at 331 Club (free)
• Joe Nicola with The Get-Up Mondays at The White Squirrel Bar (free)
• Boozewater at Animales BBQ (free)
• Michael Monroe at Lake Harriet Bandshell (free)

3rd RD: 83 OVR: Adam Andersson, C (Sweden)

Minnesota used a fifth-round pick to move up six spots and select Andersson. The 6-foot-4 center has plenty of potential after winning the IIHF World Junior Championship with Sweden last winter in Minnesota. He recorded 20 points (4 goals and 16 assists) in 27 games of his last season, and he will turn 18 this summer.

Adam Andersson is your newest Minnesweda Wild 🇸🇪 pic.twitter.com/SfxhVld9DM

— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) June 27, 2026

4th RD: 112 OVR: Kayden Lemire, F (Canada)

Minnesota's second and final trade on Saturday included a sixth-round pick to move up nine spots to select Lemire. He's another physically imposing player. At 6-foot-4, he has played for the Prince George Cougars in the Western Hockey League (WHL) for each of the last two seasons. He had 29 points (9 goals and 20 assists) last season, and he'll turn 19 in January.

Slot machine pays out 🎰
Kayden Lemire gets the Cougars going.@PGCougars pic.twitter.com/2wbbYDicS2

— Western Hockey League (@TheWHL) December 13, 2025

5th RD: 137 OVR: Filip Ruzicka, G (Chezchia)

To continue a clear theme, Minnesota's third and final draft pick is absolutely massive for his position. Ruzicka is a 6-foot-7 goaltender from Chezchia, which makes him a fascinating long-term project. He played in the WHL with the Brandon Wheat Kings last season, where he had a .906 save percentage and a 3.19 GAA in 42 games. He's expected to play in Chezchia for the 2026-27 season.

🎥SAVE OF THE NIGHT🎥

Filip Ruzicka flashes the leather late!@BDNWheatKings | @RealCdnSS | #SaveOfTheNight pic.twitter.com/A9sZGYG4YP

— Western Hockey League (@TheWHL) October 17, 2025

Minnesota remains firmly entrenched in trade rumors across the league, mainly with Red Wings star Dylan Larkin. News could come any minute, but the Wild have a three-play draft class for now.

One of the houseboats from the team's 2005 "love boat" scandal is on the market.

Tetzlaff Yacht Sales has listed the 1994 Skipperliner 5800 for $149,900, and confirmed that the vessel, which had been renamed Miss Chievious, is indeed the boat from that notorious moment when team members held a lascivious party during an October bye week.

Even the most ambitious sports memorabilia collector would have to admit that this is a rare, one-of-a-kind piece of football history. Plus, framed Daunte Culpepper and Bryant McKinnie jerseys come as part of the package.

What is now called the Miss Chievious was one of two boats chartered on Lake Minnetonka by 30 Vikings players, who flew in hookers from multiple states for the raunchy party.

Following the Lake Minnetonka soirée, the boat wound up in the hands of Butch Parks in Okoboji, Iowa, which offered tours and events, per a 2013 report from the Star Tribune.

Tetzlaff Yacht Sales did not confirm the identity of the current owner, but says the company is selling it on behalf of a tour operator.

The listing adds that the current owner refurbished the houseboat. For practical purposes, it comes with twin 340 HP Mercruisers, a new generator, air conditioning and heat, heads, full galley, and dual helms, per the listing.

The new Mystic Lake Amphitheater had to postpone its Dave Matthews Band gig on Tuesday, rescheduling it for August. It then added a date with the B-52s and Devo. Lil Yachty pulled out of Eaux Claires, but was replaced by a new collaboration between Fred Again and The National's Aaron Dessner.

Brandon Flowers' new country vibe is heading to the Palace Theatre, the Jayhawks have a new album and tour on the way, and the O'Shaughnessy announced its 2026-27 season.

Plus, heaps of other shows are on the way, including Deerhoof (whose Greg Saunier is also bringing a trio project to The Cedar Cultural Center), Antibalas, Nicole Atkins, and The War and Treaty.

Here's what hit the calendar around the Twin Cities this week.

Concerts announced in the Twin Cities this week:

• July 17: Johnny Dynamite and the Bloodsuckers with Laura Larson and Magenta Vice at Cloudland Theater
• July 23: Toronzo Cannon at The Dakota
• July 24: Aaron Dessner and Fred Again at Eaux Claires (added to festival lineup)
• July 25: Kelly Doyle feat. Nelson Devereaux at Berlin
• July 27: Kavyesh Kaviraj and Omar Abdulkarim at The Dakota
• July 30: Badzy with Cheap Glue and American Muscle at Cloudland Theater
• July 31: Linus - 10-year anniversary show with Rad Owl, Paul Cerar, and My Kid Banana at Green Room
• Aug. 4: Will Swinton at 7th St. Entry
• Aug. 8: Joyann Parker Band at The Dakota
• Aug. 13: Cole Swindell at Mystic Lake Showroom
• Aug. 14: Jaki Blue EP release show with Oscar Odd at 7th St. Entry
• Aug. 16: Bastard Sycamore reunion show with Noah Ophoven-Baldwin and William Statler at Icehouse 
• Aug. 30: Tanya Tucker added to Sierra Ferrell’s show at Minnesota State Fair Grandstand
• Aug. 31: Dave Matthews Band at Mystic Lake Amphitheater (rescheduled)
• Sept. 1: Antibalas at The Parkway Theater
• Sept. 2: Wolves of Glendale at Green Room
• Sept. 5: Greek at 7th St. Entry
• Sept. 8: Macseal and Ben Quad with Aren’t We Amphibians at 7th St. Entry
• Sept. 10: Aaron Watson at Varsity Theater
• Sept. 12: Maria Chávez, Shazad Ismaily, and Greg Saunier with Elori Saxl and Henry Solomon at The Cedar Cultural Center
• Sept. 12: Muun Bato, sunken Planes, and Super Haiku at Cloudland Theater
• Sept. 12: The Matches at Varsity Theater
• Sept. 13: Sons of Legion at Uptown Theater
• Sept. 15: Brandon Flowers at Palace Theatre
• Sept. 15: Bailen at Turf Club
• Sept. 15: The Fixx with Colin Blunstone (the voice of The Zombies), and Peter Asher at Uptown Theater
• Sept. 16: Ilana Glazer at State Theatre
• Sept. 18: Joe Jordan at 7th St. Entry
• Sept. 17: Yard Act at Fine Line
• Sept. 18–19: Carly Pearce at Fine Line
• Sept. 20: The B-52s and DEVO at Mystic Lake Amphitheater
• Sept. 20: Corcovado at Midnight: An Astrud and Joao Gilberto Tribute at Icehouse
• Sept. 22: Croz Boyce at The Cedar Cultural Center
• Sept. 22: Ravyn Lenae presents Blue Island with Lexa Gates at The Fillmore
• Sept. 23: Hail the Sun with A Lot Luke Birds, Blight Town, and Diver at Varsity Theater
• Sept. 24: Gordi + S. Carey at The Cedar Cultural Center
• Sept. 24: Holding Absence x Arm’s Length with Bloom and House & Home at Varsity Theater
• Sept. 25: Papa Mbye at Icehouse
• Sept. 25: Flamin’ Oh’s with Annie and the Bang Bang at The Hook and Ladder
• Sept. 26: Legacy Cup feat. Big Boi with Sleepy Brown, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Nappy Roots, Sa-Roc, and more at Surly Brewing Festival Field
• Sept. 26: Chelsea Wolfe with Jonathan Hultén at The Fitzgerald Theater
• Sept. 30: Sunny War at the Parkway Theater
• Oct. 2: Crankdat with YDG, Cyclops, and Austeria at The Armory
• Oct. 2: Syndee Winters at the O’Shaughnessy
• Oct. 2: Automatic with Donzii at Turf Club
• Oct. 2: Cardinal Bloom at 7th St. Entry
• Oct. 3: Bright Eyes with Lullaby for the Working Class at First Avenue
• Oct. 3: Of the Trees with Eazybaked and Kursa and Alicia Kiah at The Armory
• Oct. 4: The Holdup with Cydeway and Dylan Reese at Green Room
• Oct. 5–7: Rufus Wainwright at The Dakota
• Oct. 7: The Bright Light Social Hour at 7th St. Entry
• Oct. 8 Deerhoof at Turf Club
• Oct. 8: Amélie Farren, Lilith Max, and Rabbitology at Fine Line
• Oct. 8: Thrown at Varsity Theater
• Oct. 10: Kiefer at Icehouse
• Oct. 11: Karina Rykman at 7th St. Entry
• Oct. 12: Asha Banks at Amsterdam Bar & Hall
• Oct. 15: Zack Fox (DJ Set) at First Avenue
• Oct. 16: Arcwelder with Deep Tunnel Project and New Age Healers at Turf Club
• Oct. 16: Skillet at Uptown Theater
• Oct. 17–18: Melissa Manchester at The Dakota
• Oct. 18: Medium Build with Bella White at First Avenue
• Oct. 21: Indigo Girls with Linda Perry at State Theatre
• Oct. 21: Patrick Droney at Varsity Theater
• Oct. 22: The Wrecks with Worry club and Kid Sistr at Varsity Theater
• Oct. 23: The Tubs at Cloudland Theater
• Oct. 25: Shawn James at Fine Line
• Oct. 28: gavn! At 7th St. Entry
• Oct. 30: Phillip Phillips with Katie Lynne Sharbaugh at Fine Line
• Oct. 31: Ella Langley with Kameron Marlowe and Gabriella Rose at Grand Casino Arena
• Nov. 1: Microwave x Free Throw with Carly Cosgrove and Kerosene Heights at Varsity Theater
• Nov. 5: Sophie Hunter at 7th St. Entry
• Nov. 8: The War and Treaty at First Avenue
• Nov. 10: Alexander James at First Avenue
• Nov. 14: Almost Monday at Fine Line
• Nov. 17: Nicole Atkins at Turf Club
• Nov. 21: The Jayhawks at State Theatre
• Nov. 21: Russian Circles with Primitive Man at Varsity Theater
• Nov. 21: Jady with Stephen Stanley at 7th St. Entry
• Nov. 24: Turnover at Uptown Theater
• Nov. 29: Father of Peace at 7th St. Entry
• Dec. 1: Angine de Poitrine at First Avenue (second show added)
• Dec. 2: Tiny Habits with Marie Dresselhuis at Fine Line
• Dec. 5: Kevin Kling & Friends: Tales from the Charred Underbelly of the Yule Log at the O’Shaughnessy
• Dec. 6: The Okee Dokee Brothers at the O’Shaughnessy
• Feb. 13: Kevin Kling & Friends: The Love Show at the O’Shaughnessy
• Feb. 23: Sonic Live in Concert at State Theatre
• March 18: America in Pursuit: Amazing Grace with Lara Downes and Imani Perry at the O’Shaughnessy
• April 3: The Wailin’ Jennys at the O’Shaughnessy
• April 25: Mollie B & Friends at the O’Shaughnessy

The National Weather Service has implemented the watch between 12 p.m. Monday and 9 p.m. Tuesday, with the Twin Cities metro, central, south-central and southeastern Minnesota included in the watch area.

Monday is expected to be the hottest day of the week, with maximum temperatures of 97 possible in the Twin Cities, and 100 in southern Minnesota.

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But humidity will make it feel even hotter, with the heat index potentially topping out at 110 in the Twin Cities and triple digits across much of the watch area.

Hot and humid conditions remain on track to settle in across the Upper Midwest next week. Heat indices will exceed 100 degrees on Monday #mnwx #wiwx pic.twitter.com/ZsJF9yIjOt

— NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) June 26, 2026

The National Weather Service has warned that the coming weather will increase the chances of heat-related illnesses.

"Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors," the NWS says.

"Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes."

It kicks off what will be the hottest week of the year so far in Minnesota, with elevated heat indexes and overnight temperatures remaining in the 60s expected through Fourth of July weekend.

Here is the extreme heat watch area:

BMTN Note: Weather events in isolation can't always be pinned on climate change, but the broader trend of increasingly severe weather and record-breaking extremes seen in Minnesota and across the globe can be attributed directly to the rapidly warming climate caused by human activity. The IPCC has warned that Earth is "firmly on track toward an unlivable world," and says greenhouse gas emissions must be halved by 2030 in order to limit warming to 1.5C, which would prevent the most catastrophic effects on humankind. You can read more here.

Minnesota dealt the 89th overall pick and the 153rd overall pick in the fifth round to the Kings in exchange for the 83rd overall pick in the third round, which they selected Andersson.

Adam Andersson is your newest Minnesweda Wild 🇸🇪 pic.twitter.com/SfxhVld9DM

— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) June 27, 2026

Andersson will turn 18 years old later this summer, and he's a fascinating long-term prospect. He's a 6-foot-4 center, and he had a productive season with his team in Sweden in 2025-26. He recorded 20 points (4 goals and 16 assists) in 27 games.

Many scouts projected Andersson as a second-round pick in this year's draft, so he saw a bit of a slide into the third round. He was ranked as high as the 30th-best prospect, according to Smaht Scouting, and there wasn't a major outlet that had him lower than 80.

Wild GM Bill Guerin was presented the Jim Gregory GM of the Year Award on Friday, and his staff made their first selection of the draft on Saturday. Andersson won the IIHF World Junior Championship with Sweden last winter, which was played in Minnesota. He had four points (1 goal and 3 assists) in that tournament.

Minnesota continues to find itself in the middle of trade rumors surrounding Red Wings star Dylan Larkin. Many think a trade could be imminent, but the Wild will still own the 121st, 137th and 185th picks to round out the NHL Draft on Saturday.

The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District confirmed that one mosquito in Hennepin County, one from Dakota County, and two from Ramsey County tested positive for the virus following samples collected on June 17.

"These are the first positive samples we have received in 2026 and they are on schedule with when West Nile virus typically begins to appear," the district said.

West Nile virus can present with flu-like symptoms that can in rare cases lead to brain inflammation or meningitis, though the Mayo Clinic notes that most people don't experience symptoms upon contracting the virus.

The MMCD says last year was a record year for the virus in Minnesota, with more than 120 human cases, of which 50 were in the Twin Cities.

The virus is typically carried by the mosquito species Culex tarsalis, and there were elevated numbers of that species in Minnesota last year. However, so far this year their numbers have been lower as the state has received less rainfall.

Residents are advised to wear insect repellent and cover exposed skin, as well as emptying standing water on their properties to mitigate their risk from mosquitos.

In a message to consumers on Friday, the ice cream and burger shop announced that a flaw was discovered in its primary production machine during a routine Department of Agriculture (MDA) inspection. The MDA later issued a notice saying there is the potential for fragments of metal and plastic to be in the ice cream.

"Because we cannot with 100% certainty determine when this happened, out of an abundance of caution, products that may have come into contact with this machine were destroyed from our Minnesota shops yesterday," reads Bebe Zito's announcement, which adds that its two locations in Wisconsin are not affected.

No reports of contamination or illness have been identified.

The message continues, saying that the machine has been removed and that customers can return affected pints for a refund.

Unfortunately, it means that, for the time being, there isn't ice cream at Bebe Zito's shops in Uptown Minneapolis, the Market at Malcolm Yards, or Woodbury.

"We have shakes, dirty sodas, and the hot food we love providing for you each day," the message states.

"Our plan is to begin production again, with different machinery to rebuild our stock for everyone," the notice concludes.

"First priority will be our obligations for events outside of each shop, and then we will build up our stock for entry one. (sic) Ben and Gabby will be pulling several all nighters until stock can be rebuilt."

Charges filed in Hennepin County allege that Diallo Greer, 23, was behind the wheel of a vehicle that collided with a bicyclist at East 35th Street and Hiawatha Avenue on April 20.

The bicyclist, a man in his 50s, was thrown a "considerable distance" from his bike and died from his injuries.

Officers responded to the scene and allegedly smelled alcohol on Greer, who gave a breath test reading of .086, and later gave a blood test reading of .057. Minnesota's legal limit is .08.

Per the complaint, Greer allegedly admitted he was speeding at the time of the collision and was looking down to adjust his vehicle's climate control.

Toxicology reports indicated the presence of cocaine and THC in his system.

He is charged with two counts of criminal vehicular homicide while under the influence.

The St. Louis County Sheriff's Office says Ely first responders were called to the Angle Worm Hiking Trail at around 8:20 p.m. Friday after receiving a report that a man needed rescue.

"It was reported that an adult male had sustained a severe leg injury as a result of using a machete," the sheriff's office said, with his condition requiring a call to the Minnesota Air Rescue Team (MART).

The MART helicopter was able to hoist the man to safety and take him to an awaiting ambulance at Ely Airport.

The man was then taken to a hospital in Ely for what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

The Arkansas-born company said last year that it planned to open more than 60 locations around the Twin Cities by 2030, after opening its first Minnesota location in early 2025. Last week, its fifth outpost in the state opened in Apple Valley at 15440 English Ave. 

The company, which was founded in 2017, has quickly built a name on its assortment of customizable drink combinations centered around coffee. Though it also serves energy drinks, smoothies, teas, and sodas.

While it was founded in Arkansas, it was sold to "an entrepreneurial group" in 2020, and the parent company, Brew Culture LLC, sold a minority stake to Blackstone Inc. in 2024.

While the Twin Cities has an abundance of great, locally-owned cafes, the opening has Apple Valley prepared for lots of traffic.

The city issued an announcement last week that it expected increased traffic around the shop through July 5 due to promotional events.

"A temporary traffic control plan will be in place throughout the event period to help manage traffic flow and maintain access to surrounding businesses," the announcement said. "The plan includes traffic signage, lane closures, and off-duty officers directing traffic as needed."

In the week after it opened, there have been reports of long lines for its drive-thru stretching onto neighboring roads, with one Facebook user sharing pictures of traffic backup, saying that she waited in line for 45 minutes to get her drive-thru order.

It’s the fifth 7 Brew to open in Minnesota, following stores in Bemidji, Moorhead, St. Cloud, and Vadnais Heights, per the corporate website. The Apple Valley location is now open from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. It’ll stay open an hour later on Friday and Saturday. 

This week, officials in Inver Grove Heights approved a one-year data center moratorium despite a developer's threat to take legal action, while Minneapolis officials passed a five-month pause on new data center development.

Cities and counties across Minnesota are debating whether or not to welcome data center projects, which are often shrouded in secrecy, with some deciding to take additional time to study potential impacts, including noise and air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and extreme water usage.

Residents concerned about their quality of life have crowded city council meetings, sharing impassioned pleas to halt proposed data centers by Google, Meta and other operators.

The nonprofit Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy (MCEA) has filed a handful of lawsuits against developers and cities, including Pine Island, arguing that data center projects have received approval without adequate environmental review.

Earlier this month, a developer affiliated with Minneapolis-based Swervo sued the City of Eagan, challenging the legality of a one-year moratorium on data centers that require more than 20 megawatts of electricity within 500 feet of homes, which went into effect in mid-February.

Inver Grove Height's new moratorium could open the city up to a similar lawsuit, with a legal expert warning that a developer could seek as much as $150 million in damages if its proposed data center along the border with South St. Paul is halted.

The five-month freeze in Minneapolis does not apply to downtown data centers that occupy less than 350,000 square feet.

Minnesota U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen announced that Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh, 42, of Burnsville, was arrested on Thursday in the Somali capital of Mogadishu.

He has been a fugitive since being indicted in September 2022 with numerous federal crimes including wire fraud and federal programs bribery in relation to the scheme to defraud COVID-19 childhood nutrition programs.

Eidleh is described as "one of the orchestrators" of the scheme, with the 42-year-old employed by Feeding Our Future when he allegedly "solicited and received bribes and kickbacks" from providers who took federal funding to provide meals for children during the pandemic, many of whom did not exist.

The indictment continues to allege Eidleh created his own federal child nutrition program sites that he fraudulently claimed were serving thousands of meals per day, and allegedly created shell companies claiming to be meal vendors for those sites.

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"Eidleh deposited more than $5 million in kickbacks, bribes, and other fraud proceeds into accounts associated with his shell companies, using them to conceal the true nature and source of the illegally obtained funds," the U.S. Attorney's Office alleges.

Eidleh has been described as a "right-hand man" to convicted Feeding Our Future CEO Aimee Bock, who was sentenced to more than 40 years in prison for her role as the "ringleader" in the fraud.

As she was prosecuted, Bock claimed she was taken advantage of by nefarious employees including Eidleh, as reported by the Sahan Journal.

"This defendant was a central figure in one of the largest fraud schemes in Minnesota history," said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Department of Justice’s National Fraud Enforcement Division.

"He not only stole taxpayer dollars, but he also robbed vulnerable children of critical resources they desperately needed. Rather than answer for his crimes in the United States, he fled to Somalia in a futile attempt to evade justice. That attempt ended thanks to the exceptional work of our FBI partners."

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

A pair of ordinances amending the city code passed on a 9-2 vote Thursday, effectively repealing the ban and paving the way for adult bathhouses and sex venues following additional regulations that the council must pass before any can open.

Council Members Elizabeth Shaffer and Pearll Warren voted against the changes. Council Member Jamal Osman abstained from the vote, while Council Member Jamison Whiting was absent, though he previously indicated that he's in favor of the repeal.

Mayor Jacob Frey previously told MPR News that he supports repealing the bathhouse ban, so a veto from him is unlikely, especially since the council would have enough votes to override it.

Council Member Jason Chavez, the only openly LGBTQ+ member of the council, co-authored the ordinances in alignment with the Safer Sex Spaces Coalition, a group that lobbied for the ban's repeal, arguing that it's no longer needed to promote public health.

"Social science research tells us that commercial sex spaces, like gay saunas, are important for promoting safer sex practices, enhancing HIV prevention, and increasing access to testing and treatment," the organization says. "These spaces also enhance feelings of identity, camaraderie, authenticity, and belonging."

Such businesses operated in Minneapolis as community spaces, which were historically frequented by gay men, until they were banned in 1988 out of concern that they facilitated "high-risk sexual contact."

There were three bathhouses in downtown Minneapolis at one point in the early 1970s, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune.

Currently, the state's only legal adult bathhouse has been open in Duluth since the 1920s, though it appears to be temporarily closed due to issues with its boiler.

Barbara Mork-Woodford, 47, of St. Paul, had left work at Como Town on the grounds of Como Zoo and was in a marked crosswalk on Hamline Avenue when she was struck by a 17-year-old driver on the evening of June 8.

The mother-of-five was hospitalized with severe injuries and required emergency brain surgery, and ultimately succumbed to her injuries this week.

A GoFundMe campaign created to assist with her hospital bills described her as a "loving mother and grandmother who has always cared deeply for her family and her animals, especially her beloved dog Dakota."

"She has brought warmth and kindness to everyone around her, and her passion for animals has always been a source of joy in her life," it continued.

The fundraiser has generated around $4,500 as of Friday.

The Pioneer Press is reporting that a candlelight memorial is being held for Mork-Woodford at the site of the collision on Saturday. The driver involved is currently under investigation.

Her funeral will be held on Sunday in Inver Grove Heights. More details can be found in her obituary.

It's almost the Fourth of July, which always means bombastic displays and sad dogs. That'll be amplified this year as communities put a little extra elbow grease into their festivities in honor of the United States' 250th anniversary.

There will be plenty of opportunities to ooo and ahh at the colorful lights around the Twin Cities. Here's where and when you'll find displays this year.

June 27

Ham Lake

The city’s annual Freedom Festival takes place the weekend before the Fourth of July. It includes a flag-raising ceremony, car show, maker’s market, activities for kids, hot dog-eating contest, live music, and fireworks at 10 p.m. Ham Lake Lions Park, 1220 157th Ave. NE, Ham Lake

Roseville

The Rosefest Party in the Park features inflatables, face painting, and a petting zoo for the young ones. Then, at 10 p.m., kaboom. Fireworks. Central Park, 2540 Lexington Ave. N, Roseville

July 3

Bloomington

Bloomington isn’t just for big malls and the smell of Auntie Anne’s. The Summer Fete has live music from the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra, a stage of activities for kids, and fireworks around 10 p.m. Normandale Lake Park, W. 84th Street and Normandale Boulevard, Bloomington

Shakopee

The Canterbury Fireworks Spectacular has races starting at 4 p.m., activities for kids, live music, and fireworks after the race at about 10:10 p.m. You can see the fireworks from around the area, but if you want to go to the full event, you’ll need to buy tickets. Canterbury Park, 1100 Canterbury Rd., Shakopee

St. Louis Park

Celebrate Independence Day with Westopolis, where fireworks get underway at 10 p.m. There will be entertainment and food trucks in the park starting at 7 p.m. Aquila Park, 3110 Xylon Ave. S, St. Louis Park

Waconia

After more than three decades of organizing the Lake Waconia fireworks, the Waconia Chamber of Commerce has passed the torch to Sovereign Estate Winery. The fireworks will be launched from the vineyard, but watching from there isn’t free. Tickets start at $26. However, the Waconia Fireworks Festival says in a Facebook post that the display will still be visible from around the city. Sovereign Estate Winery, 9950 N Shore Road, Waconia

July 4

Apple Valley

The Freedom Days festival runs for days leading up to some July 4 revelry. There’s a parade at 1 p.m., carnival rides opening at 2 p.m., food trucks at 3 p.m., and activities right up until the big display pops off at 9:30 p.m. Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, 5800 140th St. W, Apple Valley

Blaine

Blaine doesn’t mess about with bounce houses and what-have-you. Fireworks at 10 p.m. That’s what’s happening. National Sports Center, 1750 105th Ave. NW, Blaine

Chanhassen

From July 1–4, Chanhassen has celebratory activities like movies in the park, a carnival, and magic shows. On the Fourth, there’s a fishing contest, classic car show, carnival rides, parade, and the Taste of Chanhassen festival. The fireworks take flight at 10 p.m. Lake Ann Park, 1456 W 78th St., Chanhassen

Coon Rapids

The city’s Fourth of July celebration runs for three days, wrapping up with explosions in the sky. The Saturday celebration includes a carnival, food trucks, 5K race, bingo, and live music from the Rockin’ Hollywoods. The city recommends viewing the fireworks from the Coon Rapids Ice Center or Anoka-Ramsey Community College. Coon Rapids Ice Center, 11000 Crooked Lake Blvd. NW, Coon Rapids

Delano

The city’s multi-day Fourth of July celebration wraps up with fireworks at 10:30 p.m. Central Park, 650 River St. N, Delano

Eagan

TFunfest overtly promises fun from July 2–4. The grand finale includes a parade, carnival, and lots of activities. The finale’s finale is fireworks. Lots of fireworks, starting at 10 p.m. Eagan Festival Grounds, 1501 Central Pkwy., Eagan

Eden Prairie

The Hometown Celebration starts at 3 p.m. with food trucks and live music, as it does every year. This go-round, however, will also include a T-6 Thunder flyover and a World Cup watch party. Round Lake Park, 16691 Valley View Rd., Eden Prairie

Excelsior

The Excelsior Firecracker races are followed by a kids’ parade and community activities before the fireworks display at dusk. Excelsior Commons, 135 Lake St., Excelsior

Lakeville

The Fourth of July fireworks kick off Lakeville’s annual, nine-day Pan-O-Prog festival. Starting at 6 p.m., there are food trucks, a petting zoo, and entertainment for the wee ones. Then, the fireworks get going at 10 p.m. Century Middle School, 18610 Ipava Ave., Lakeville

Minneapolis

The day-long Red, White & BOOM! celebration starts at 8 a.m. with 5K and 2K runs. That’s followed by community yoga, food trucks, trivia, music, line dancing, and fireworks over the Mississippi. Water Works Park, 333 S 1st St., Minneapolis

Prior Lake

The annual 4th of July Boat Parade is back, followed by fireworks in the evening. Lakefront Park, 5000 Kop Pkwy., Prior Lake

Additionally, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is hosting its annual Rock and Rockets event. It's a free outdoor festival with a DJ, food trucks, and a set from St. Paul and the Minneapolis Funk All Stars. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd. NW, Prior Lake

Richfield

There are Independence Day activities all day in Richfield. It starts with a pancake breakfast at the VFW, followed by a memorial wreath laying at Veterans Memorial Park and a parade. Starting at 4 p.m., the park will be filled with food, live music, activities for kids, and fireworks at 10 p.m. Veterans Park, 6335 Portland Ave., Richfield

Shakopee

After Canterbury Park hosts an event on July 3, the party moves to Valleyfair. For its Star Spangled Night, there will be an explosive show starting at 9:45 p.m. Earlier in the day, it’s the start of the theme park’s Juicy Lucy Festival, which runs through July 19. Valleyfair, 1 Valley Fair Dr., Shakopee

St. Paul

The Rotary Club of St. Paul is bringing fireworks back to the capital. (Or, more specifically, bringing fireworks back that aren’t associated with the Saints.) There will be food trucks and a concert from Steven C and friends as part of the proceedings. At 9 p.m., Mayor Kaohly Her will speak. The fireworks fly at 10 p.m. Cathedral Hill Park, 215 Summit Ave., St. Paul

Stillwater

Live music and Civil War cannon firings (seriously) comence a day that wraps with 10 p.m. fireworks over the St. Croix River and Historic Lift Bridge. The music includes Hero’s End and Audio Circus at the Amphitheater Stage in Lowell Park, and the St. Croix Jazz Orchestra at the Pioneer Park Bandshell. Lowell Park, 201 Water St. N, Stillwater

Woodbury

Head to Woodbury for the fireworks at 10 p.m., but go early to take in the bounce houses, live music, sidewalk chalk competition, splash pad, and food trucks. M Health Fairview Sports Center, 4125 Radio Dr., Woodbury

The Minnesota Lottery has revealed a series of six-figure wins on multiple lottery games in recent days, including two $100,000 Powerball wins.

The two Powerball tickets were sold at retailers in Madison and Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, for the June 20 and 24 drawings, while another ticket sold in Minneapolis won $50,000 in the June 24 drawing.

Meanwhile, a Mega Millions player who bought their ticket in St. Joseph won $100,000 in the June 23 drawing, while a North 5 ticket sold in Ramsey racked up a $117,700 in the June 22 drawing.

All tickets worth $50,000 or more sold in Minnesota must be claimed from the Minnesota Lottery HQ in Roseville. Winners have up to a year to claim their prizes.

Miranda revealed in an Instagram post that he was in town Monday with the express purpose of visiting the roadside attraction in Darwin, Minn., explaining that it was son Sebastian's only sixth-grade graduation wish.

The 9-ton, 12-foot-wide twine ball is the largest made by a single person, Francis A. Johnson, who worked on it from 1950 to 1979. It was further immortalized through "Weird Al" Yankovic's 1989 song, "The Biggest Ball of Twine in Minnesota."

Miranda's post includes a photo of of himself and his son wearing "Weird Al" merch in front of the Ball of Twine.

After flying to Minneapolis, then renting a car and driving to Darwin, the "Hamilton" creator says he and his son had dinner and ice cream with friends on Lake Minnetonka.

Tommy’s Tonka Trolley shared a selfie of Miranda with a few fans outside the ice cream stand on Excelsior Bay on Monday evening.

Also in Miranda's post is a photo of Sebastian in front of Schmitt Music's mural near 10th Street and Marquette Avenue in downtown Minneapolis, the background of iconic Prince portraits from his early days as a musician.

At the end of their visit, the pair hopped on an Amtrak train for a 30-hour ride back to New York City, with Miranda writing that they "managed to watch most of the Mission: Impossible movies and hopefully, form some core memories."

If Miranda and his son ever want to come back to Minnesota, it's now home to the world's tallest nutcracker, which was officially completed this month in Luverne.

"Gauging opinions, the belief is that Dylan Larkin will end up with Minnesota once everything is settled," hockey insider Andy Strickland posted on X on Friday.

Gauging opinions, the belief is that Dylan Larkin will end up with Minnesota once everything is settled.

— Andy Strickland (@andystrickland) June 26, 2026

Strickland's reporting comes after days of talk among league insiders that numerous teams have gotten involved over the past couple of weeks in the Larkin sweepstakes. Upon initially requesting a move, Larkin, who has a full no-trade clause, reportedly outlined three teams — Minnesota, Florida, and Vegas — that he would be willing to accept a trade to.

Since the initial list, teams like Dallas and San Jose have also been talked about as potential landing spots. Recently, rumors have picked up to the point where Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos said Dallas has become Larkin's "destination of choice."

Wild GM Bill Guerin hasn't let up in his pursuit of Larkin. According to The Athletic's Michael Russo and Joe Smith, Guerin has been on the phone with Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman and Larkin's agent Pat Brisson on a "daily basis" trying to work out the details of a trade.

"The Wild are in daily contact with Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman and Larkin’s agent, Pat Brisson, in hopes of facilitating a trade, but there is no shortage of interest in the soon-to-be-30-year-old center, who would give Minnesota its long-needed No. 1 pivot and potentially the final piece in building a true Cup contender," wrote Russo and Smith.

"The fact that Yzerman, Brisson and Bill Guerin remain in daily contact, though, means Minnesota is still trying to find a way, perhaps the most logical yet complicated way being to find a third team that can help Detroit receive the type of assets it wants in a completed package."

So, when could a trade happen? According to league insider David Pagnotta, while Yzerman would be willing to wait, Detroit's ultimate preference is to have this sorted out by the end of draft weekend. In other words, the next couple of days.

"I think he would be willing to wait," Pagnotta said on a recent episode of The DFO Rundown podcast. "But at the same time, I don't know, I'm not sure that makes the most sense for Detroit. ... The goal is to get this done by the end of the draft weekend. That's my understanding, that's the goal. But if he doesn't get it, what he's looking for, he will wait, but I don't think that's his preference."

View the original article to see embedded media.

Though Detroit may want to get a deal done by this weekend, Pagnotta noted that Yzerman, so far, has had the stance that he's not going to just give away Larkin because he asked for a trade. If the Wild are going to land Larkin, they're going to have to give up a sizable package, one that likely includes a third team getting involved.

Bee Tattoo announced Wednesday that it's shutting its doors in the Elliot Park neighborhood at 713 S. 10th St. in about two months.

Owner Lindsee Boyer says in an Instagram post that Bee Tattoo is "closing at the end of summer due to unforeseen circumstances."

"Like many endings, this one is bittersweet. We love Bee Tattoo, and know so many of you do too. We will definitely miss this beautiful space and everyone who passed through over the years," the post reads.

View this post on Instagram

Boyer hints at a reprise of Sunstone Tattoo, her former shop in Eugene, Ore., which closed last May amid her return to the Twin Cities.

"As one chapter ends, another begins! Ever since closing my shop in Oregon I’ve felt a pull to continue that journey of Sunstone and feel like this would be perfect timing to start that up again," she writes in her post. "So we’re thrilled to share that we are moving to Northeast Minneapolis Arts District and will be continuing the magic of Sunstone Tattoo!"

Boyer promises more information about the new shop in Northeast and announcements on flash days and events, like a move-out rummage sale, in the coming weeks.

"Thank you to every resident artist, guest artist, clients, walk-ins, neighboring businesses, and friends who have been a part of the shop in any way," her post continues. "I am so grateful for everyone who has helped make Bee so special."

The arts venue at St. Catherine University has detailed its 15-event calendar centering social justice and women's leadership, including a Sept. 30 appearance from Biles, the 11-time Olympic medalist who will deliver the Bonnie Jean Kelly and Joan Kelly Distinguished Visiting Scholars Lecture.

But before that lecture, the season starts on Sept. 3 with a family-friendly performance from the Jeki Yoo Duo Quick Change and Magic Show.

It'll also feature events with authors Kao Kalia Yang (Oct. 29), Chanel Miller (Feb. 9), and Dr. Uché Blackstock (March 2), as well as musical performances from Broadway star Syndee Winters (Oct. 2), the locally-based Okee Dokee Brothers (Dec. 6), pianist Lara Downes and author Imani Perry (March 18), folk trio the Wailin' Jennys (April 3), and polka ensemble Mollie B & Friends (April 25).

Additionally, the O'Shaughnessy will welcome author and storyteller Kevin Kling back to its stage for "Tales from the Charred Underbelly of the Yule Log" on Dec. 5. He'll follow that with Kevin Kling & Friends: You Can't Fix Cupid on Feb. 13, a Valentine's Day celebration that includes Prudence Johnson, Dan Chouinard, Claudia Schmidt, Dane Stauffer, Bradley Greenwald, and Simone Perrin.

As has been the case in past seasons, the university will also host conversations around the environment and sustainability. That lineup features Change Narrative founder Jothsna Harris on Nov. 12; "What You Won't Do For Love," a play with David Suzuki and Tara Cullis on Nov. 15; and the 20207 Goodman Lecture, delivered by author Lisa Keefauver.

Subscriptions and single-show tickets are on sale now.

On Wednesday, Richie called for an intermission about an hour into his set at Grand Casino Arena. The legendary singer sat down during a performance of "Dancing on the Ceiling," telling the crowd he felt dizzy. Shortly afterwards, he left the stage and did not return.

In an announcement on Friday, Live Nation said that his June 26 show in Chicago and June 27 show in Columbus will be postponed "under advisement by doctors to rest and return to full health."

The shows will be rescheduled at a later date.

The tour will resume on June 30 in Pittsburgh. Richie and his representation have not commented on the situation.

During an event Wednesday on Capitol Hill, Emmer said he doesn't care whether he's labeled a racist of Islamophobe before launching into a tirade against Somali immigrants, a population that he previously defended, and Minnesota.

"Sometimes Minnesotans are so afraid that you're gonna call us a racist, you're gonna call us an Islamophobe, you're gonna call us some name that we just don't wanna get into that fight," Emmer said. "You know what? I would argue that I never did care, but I am done being careful, even the least bit careful. I don't really care where you come from, alright? But if you come to this great country, you have to understand you're coming here to be an American.

"We celebrate everyone's culture. We're happy with that, as long as you are an American. Celebrate your culture, I don't care – Italian, Polish, ya know, Somali ... but they don't assimilate. And if they don't assimilate, then they should go the hell back to where they came from."

At no point during the speech does Emmer clarify what he considers "assimilation" and why he does not think some in Minnesota's Somali-American community are doing so.

Somalia-born U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar has long been a target of attacks from conservatives, including President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly railed against Somalis, calling them "garbage" and “pirates” who have “ransacked Minnesota."

"I assimilated all the way to Congress and this idiot still tells me to go back where I came from," Omar said of Emmer in a social media post Thursday.

U.S. Rep. Angie Craig characterized Emmer's comments about Somalis not assimilating as "racist" in her own post.

Emmer began his remarks Wednesday with a warning that he's going to set aside his talking points and "go rogue," then said he and other conservatives are engaged in "the age-old battle .... of good versus evil."

"I come from the people's republic of Minnesota, that has been so mismanaged by criminals. They're criminals. They lie, they cheat, and they steal," Emmer said.

"And by the way, they let immigrants who come to this country not wanting to assimilate lie, cheat, and steal from them. Our money. Guess what? There is nothing racist about calling out a criminal."

Gov. Tim Walz shared a clip from that portion Emmer's speech on Thursday, writing in a social media post: "Imagine flushing your reputation down the toilet for the privilege of being Donald Trump’s skin tag."

During the event, Emmer went on to claim that Minnesota's abortion laws are "as bad as North Korea," where abortion and birth control are outlawed, and that local media is "constantly trying to convince people that the truth isn't really the truth."

"That girls aren't really girls, and boys aren't really boys, and that it's OK to do whatever in God's name you want to do," he continued. "It ain't OK. There is right and wrong. There is moral and immoral. All you gotta do is go to the greatest book ever and read it, and it'll tell ya how other people that came long before us made the same mistakes."

Emmer then circled back to his earlier comments on what Republicans are "fighting," adding that "Americans are much smarter than these elite radical lefties ... and the media."

As he wrapped up his time at the podium, Emmer told the crowd that "it is time to evangelize on a political level," saying "we should be fighting for this country every single day."

The Faith and Freedom Coalition hosted the town hall Wednesday as part of its annual conference and invited other GOP lawmakers to speak, including U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas.

Emmer has represented the 6th District, which has a large Somali population, particularly in the St. Cloud area, since 2015.

That same year, Emmer teamed up with then-U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison to create the Congressional Somalia Caucus, and decried as "un-American" a proposed ban on additional Somalis moving to St. Cloud.

A decade later, Emmer called for the deportation of Somali-Americans who have engaged in fraud, then introduced legislation to strip citizenship from anyone who's convicted of fraud against the government within 10 years of becoming naturalized.

Emmer's political rhetoric has taken a noticeable rightward lurch since Trump denounced him as a RINO (Republican In Name Only) and claimed he has “never respected his endorsements … or the breadth and scope of MAGA" in late 2023, when Emmer unsuccessfully ran for House speaker. Months later, Emmer and the other Minnesota GOP House members endorsed Trump's 2024 presidential bid.

Emmer's reelection bid is being challenged by fellow Republicans Mike Foley and Chris Corey, all of whom are hoping to secure the GOP nomination in the Aug. 11 primary.

Whoever wins will face Democrat Doug Chapin in the Nov. 3 general election.

Watch the full Faith and Freedom Coalition event via C-SPAN:

Winona Police Department says it was called to the airport just after 8 p.m. after a report that a plane crashed near a runway.

They arrived to find the crashed plane and its lone occupant, 74-year-old pilot Wayne Ledebuhr, of Winona, who was unresponsive.

Despite lifesaving efforts, Ledebuhr was pronounced dead at the scene.

The crash is being investigated by Winona PD, the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

The Wolves made a big move on Thursday, acquiring LaMelo Ball and Josh Green from the Charlotte Hornets. But the price was steep, emotionally speaking. The package heading the other way included one of Minnesota's most beloved pro athletes: Naz Reid.

An undrafted free agent who rose to become the NBA Sixth Man of the Year in 2023-24, Reid enjoyed a level of fan fervor typically reserved for a player who piloted a team toward banners in the rafters.

His name even became a sort of nod between those in the know. "Naz Reid," people would comment on articles about the team. In replies to social media posts about the team, "Naz Reid."

The passion among the Wolves faithful is unique and well documented, but was maybe best illustrated by that moment in the spring of 2024 when hundreds of fans got "Naz Reid" tattoos. 

That moment echoed across Wolves fandom in the wake of the trade, as people with the tattoo shared tributes to the player without a hint of regret about the ink. For many, their love of the player and the communal excitement about that playoff run remains unchanged.

"The tattoo was never about Naz Reid to me," Zach Larmore, self-distribution sales manager at Falling Knife Brewing, tells Bring Me The News. "It wasn't even really about the Wolves or basketball, per se. It was about a point in time and space, spring 2024 in the Twin Cities. It was about community and belonging, with a pinch of our trademark whimsy.

"Given what happened here this winter, that's more important than ever."

That moment began with JC Stroebel and Jesse George at Roseville's Beloved Studios, who offered $20 "Naz Reid" tattoos during that playoff run.

"I was all hyped up, and just kinda threw the tweet out willy-nilly, thinking maybe one person would claim the offer. It just kinda snowballed from there," Stroebel told Racket in 2024. In the end, they put the Sixth Man of the Year's name on hundreds of people.

LaMelo Ball should get a Naz Reid tattoo.

— Kyle Theige (@KyleTheige) June 25, 2026

Larmore's tattoo featured prominently in a post from Falling Knife on Thursday, with the brewery promising a $1 drink if you "flash your Naz Reid tattoo."

"His name was our rallying cry, a tribute to the countless fastbreaks and quick threes that propelled the Wolves to victory," the brewery wrote in its post.

"To celebrate our favorite game-changer, the 6MOTY, and 'Big Jelly,' we’re honoring him with a drink special for the rest of the week.... Whether it’s fresh or an OG, let’s see that ink and toast to the best Sixth Man in the league. There’s only one cheer to send him off: Two Words. Naz Reid."

Similar sentiments — a fond farewell with a dash of humor — peppered social media on Thursday.

Aaron Mader (aka Lazerbeak), a Twin Cities-based musician, producer, and CEO of Doomtree Records, jokingly posted a photo of his Naz Reid tattoo with the name crossed out in pen.

Underneath, he'd written "LaMelo."

"I was going through the many different stages of grieving yesterday when the news broke," Mader says. "All my b-ball text threads were on fire, and I was sitting there looking at my Naz tattoo. Just got a pen out to see how it would feel and try to laugh to keep from crying or whatever that saying is.

"I love Naz forever and will be rooting for him for life. He has reached folk hero, Paul Bunyan status here in Minnesota, and I'm still somewhat convinced Tim [Connelly] has a weird boomerang plan to bring him back just like Bite Bite and Slowmo."

Like Larmore, Mader got tattooed at Beloved Studios during the team's 2024 run.

View this post on Instagram

"As a Wolves lifer, I was absolutely losing my mind that we were actually making a run in the playoffs, and I really don't know that I'd ever loved a Wolves team more, even in the KG years," he says.

"Ant and Naz and Jaden and NAW. Pure joy. It's only my third tattoo ever but it just felt right."

Update: https://t.co/jqDbCUKSz3 pic.twitter.com/NClKteEh1u

— Chris Egert (@ChrisEgertKSTP) June 25, 2026

While the prevalence of "Naz Reid" as a comment on Timberwolves articles may wane, the love for the player clearly hasn't.

"'Naz Reid' transcends the person of its namesake," read a reply on Falling Knife's post. "Naz Reid is a mindset."

Another responded, simply, "Naz Reid."

The Minneapolis Police Department says the shooting was reported around 12:45 a.m., with officers sent to reports of gunfire near the 2500 block of Clinton Avenue South.

They arrived to find a man suffering life-threatening gunshot wounds, and he was pronounced dead at the scene despite lifesaving efforts.

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Police found evidence of gunfire in the vicinity, and about ten minutes after the shooting was reported, another man entered a Fairview hospital with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds, saying he was shot somewhere in south Minneapolis.

"MPD homicide investigators are working to determine the full sequence of events that led to the shooting death and whether the two shootings are related," a Minneapolis PD release said. "There have been no arrests."

Anyone with information can contact policetips@minneapolismn.gov or 612-673-5845.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

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"The heat beginning Sunday and especially Monday will be dangerous, and the severe thunderstorm threat Sunday night into Monday could become significant if storms are able to develop," says the National Weather Service in Twin Cities.

According to the NWS, highs on Sunday will rise into the 90s across much of Minnesota and Wisconsin. Dew points in the 60s and 70s will push heat indices (what it feels like) close to 100 degrees on Sunday afternoon.

"Any morning storms or clouds could slow the temperature rise in some areas, but the overall trend is toward a very warm and humid day," the NWS says.

"Monday continues to look like the most concerning day of the forecast period," the NWS explains. "Temperatures are expected to climb well into the 90s, if not approach 100, with tropical dew points well into the 70s expected. Just how hot we get & how high heat indices can reach will depend greatly on any remnant precipitation or cloud cover from the possible storms Sunday night."

Bottom line: If it's clear during the day on Monday, heat index values could reach 105 to 110 degrees in the Twin Cities and basically the entire southern two-thirds of the state.

"This level of heat can become dangerous quickly, especially for anyone without reliable air conditioning, those working outdoors, young children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions," the weather service says.

What about severe weather?

NOAA's Storm Prediction Center has the northern half of Minnesota in a slight risk (level 2 of 5 on the severe scale) for severe storms on Sunday and Monday, though a strong cap will need to be broken for any storms to develop.

Sunday's outlook:

"The current model consensus generally keeps any thunderstorms Sunday evening off to our north across northern Minnesota, but there is still enough uncertainty to continue to mention a threat for severe thunderstorms & heavy rain across central MN/western WI Sunday night," says the NWS Twin Cities.

Monday's outlook:

The NWS says Monday's threat is again dependent on the cap breaking, but any storms that develop could be "significant."

"If any thunderstorms are able to form, they will likely have the potential for significant severe weather along with torrential rainfall," the NWS says, noting that the greatest severe threat looks to be across northern Minnesota, which is due to a weaker cap.

That said, if storms pop in the southern half of Minnesota, they could be potent because of a "high-end environment in place."

We'll certainly have more on the severe weather chances as Sunday and Monday arrive, which is when the weather service will have a much better idea of whether the cap will break.

James, who has been with the country music station for 21 years, confirmed in a social media post on Thursday that she was "let go," amid wider cuts implemented by parent company iHeartMedia this week.

"Yes, I’m sad. I also can’t help but feel incredibly grateful for all the friendships I’ve made and the experiences I’ve had," she wrote.

"What will I miss most? The people. Thanks to everyone who listened through the years, showed up to events and appearances and became an important part of my life. I don’t know what’s next, but I’m excited and nervous. For now, 'Amy James out for the day!' Thank you for the memories. And Mom, thanks for the above words of encouragement."

The K102 schedule currently shows no hosts between Chris Carr & Company's 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. slot and Zach Dillon's 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. slot.

It's not clear at this time whether her spot will be filled with a local host. Bring Me The News has reached out to K102 for more information.

Earlier this week, radio host Jon Justice announced that his show was ending on conservative talk radio station AM 1130 KTLK following iHeart cuts, which is affecting dozens of stations across the U.S. amid a technology-driven realignment by the media giant.

Changes in the Minnesota radio industry aren't exclusive to iHeart either. Earlier this week, Hubbard Broadcasting ended the station’s afternoon Staci & Hutch show, which ran from 2–7 p.m. on weekdays and has been on the air since 2019.

And on Thursday it was reported that family-owned Radio Mankato has made an apparent reduction in staffing that included the departure of host Lisa Kaye.

It’ll debut Minnesota Country Club on July 10–11, a country, folk, and roots music-centered festival taking place one weekend before Minnesota Yacht Club. This week, the festival unveiled what's on the menu for the inaugural installment.

In addition to the beer tents and sets from Treaty Oak Revival and The Red Clay Strays, C3 is bringing in food from beloved Twin Cities restaurants and food trucks, ensuring that concertgoers don't have to accompany the twangy sounds with microwaved hot dogs.

While festivals aren't known for having low-priced food and drink, the menu is alluring with options like falafel, lobster rolls, pizza, and smashburgers from food purveyors like Hippo Pockets, El Burrito Mercado, and Bao Bao Buns.

These are the mobile kitchens Minnesota Country Club has announced for its debut.

• Bao Bao Buns
• Ben & Jerry’s
• Bennett’s Chop and Railhouse
• Chicken X Waffles
• Coast 2 Coast
• Corndog Inc. 
• Cookie Cruiser
• Dank Nugs
• El Burrito Mercado
• Flavors of Dubai x Dirty Pop Soda Shop
• Hebros Cheesesteaks, Tenders, Dogs & More
• Hebros Gyro, Falafel and More
• Hippo Pockets
• Hot Box Wraps
• Island Noodles
• Jupiter Moon Ice Cream
• Just the Meats
• Kennedy Concessions 
• King of Pops
• Lobster Rolls & More
• Lost Pelican Lemonade
• Lumpia Bros
• Pizza Nova
• Roon’s Savories
• San Matteo Pizza
• Smash & Grab
• Smashcity Smashburgers
• SOGO
• Spacebunz
• Tica’s Tacos

Tickets for the festival are still available, with two-day passes starting at $160. It has also released a map of the festival grounds for those who are already looking to figure out where they'll be grabbing lunch between sets.

The lawsuit was filed in Ramsey County Civil Court this week by Matthew Robert Bauer, the parent of two SPA students and current Roseville City Council member. 

In legal filings obtained by Bring Me The News, Bauer claims the school’s leadership, namely Dr. Luis Ottley, threatened to expel his high school senior son weeks before graduation. 

That reportedly came after Dr. Ottley learned Bauer organized "a community dinner where members of the private school could connect, socialize, and engage in thoughtful conversations related to the SPA school community," and that those involved were allegedly preparing to sign a "Letter of No Confidence" in Ottley. 

“SPA also voided (Bauer’s 10th grade son’s) re-enrollment contract for the 2026-2027 school year, all to coerce the Bauer family into silence. Neither of the Bauer children nor their parents did anything wrong,” the suit alleges. 

Bauer had been outspoken about perceived issues at the school, including its alleged failure to address sexual harassment concerns and censorship of the school’s newspaper for trying to cover the issue. In 2024, the lawsuit cites reports of “serious and multiple incidents of sexual harassment, including sexually related documents involving female students,” but claims little was done to address the issue. 

After student reporters published an article on the scandal, the lawsuit alleges Dr. Ottley pressured the students to remove it. 

The suit also cites a wave of early retirements, faculty and staff departures, and the loss of significant financial donations during Dr. Ottley’s tenure. 

Bauer is requesting a court order that would allow his 10th grade son to return to SPA for school, along with $50,000 in damages. 

Bring Me The News has reached out to an SPA spokesperson for comment, but did not hear back as of Thursday afternoon.

Authorities were called to the Pilgrim's Pride facility at 851 Sauk River Road in Cold Spring at 1:15 a.m., which came after a 29-year-old man "became pinned beneath equipment in the loading dock area."

The worker had already been removed by coworkers when responders arrived, and though medical care was provided, he was ultimately pronounced dead at the scene.

His identity has not yet been released. The incident is under investigation.

The chicken production facility employs more than 1,200 workers, with Pilgrim's Pride embarking on a $75 million expansion of the site in 2020, adding an extra 50,000 sq. ft. of floorspace.

https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m16!1m12!1m3!1d2809.3810615239913!2d-94.40797282372617!3d45.460745971073926!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!2m1!1spilgrims%20sauk%20river%20road!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1782422701409!5m2!1sen!2sus

Ahead of Twin Cities Pride weekend, the magazine published its final issue Thursday, with Lavender Media, Inc. President and CEO Stephen Rocheford saying in a note that gay rights have come a long way since its debut 31 years ago.

"When Lavender published it[s] first issue on June 9, 1995, there were virtually no gay rights in the United States and in Minnesota," he writes. "However, with the passage of time and in short order, history marched on and Lavender beat the drum for equality in Minnesota."

Rocheford goes on to point out that Lavender's 20th anniversary coincided with the country's legalization of same-sex marriage in 2015.

"Today Lavender is 31 years old and the rights have been uniformly achieved and systematized. Gays can go into any restaurant or bar as a group, have dinner, drinks, and no one would say another word. We have arrived!!!"

"The goals for Lavender’s founders have been achieved," Rocheford continues. "It is now time to say goodbye as we have achieved the purpose for which we were created."

"Gone are the days of queer people only being able to gather in "dark bars and secret hangouts," he says, and now the community "can go anywhere and be just like everyone else who goes out with friends."

The note concludes: "Lavender comes to the logical end after the achievement of its objectives. It’s been a good run and a good time. But now it is time to move on. We will not hang on, just because. We are moving on to newer, bigger and better ventures. History will not stand still; neither will we."

A footnote that says Lavender Media "continues to explore and consider options for transitioning the brand into a new phase," but for now "there are no immediate plans to continue the publication in its current format."

Barry Leavitt, sales and advertising director for Lavender, says in a Facebook post that staff learned late Wednesday afternoon that Rocheford was retiring and immediately shutting down the publication.

"Like any job, there are ups and downs, battles won and lost, people coming and going. Over the past 27 years, I’ve had a front row seat to many of the changes in our community," he writes.

"While most of the changes have been for the better, if I had one wish for our community, it would be for all of us to do more to lift up and support each other without caring who gets the credit."

The biweekly magazine published a total of 811 issues throughout its existence.

It's also the point where fried foods, demolition derbies, tractor pulls, and midway rides become a weekend staple as Minnesota's county fairs trickle onto fairgrounds in July.

Here's how to get in on the county fair fun around the state before the chaos of the Minnesota State Fair descends on Aug. 27.

Winona County Fair

July 8–12 in St. Charles

Cost: Free (park is $5/day, carnival and events cost extra)
Attractions: Tractor pull, carnival, chainsaw artists, bingo, 4-H dog show, Lego contest
Live Music: Greg Gall and His Sisters from Another Mother

Ramsey County Fair

July 16–19 in Maplewood

Cost: Free, $10 for parking
Attractions: Carnival, fireworks, talent show, petting zoo
Live Music: Bambi Alexandra, B Sides Horn Band, Los Rebeldes, Rhino, Just Is Band, Rocking Hollywoods, Rooms on Fire, and The Mike Poot Band

East Otter Tail County Fair

July 23–26 in Perham

Cost: Free (rides and demolition derby cost extra)
Attractions: Rooster crowing contest, children’s barn, scavenger hunt, carnival, bingo, Lego building contest, demolition derby, tractor pull, kids tractor pedal pull, Axe throwing
Live Music: Church of Cash, Rachael Ianiro, The Cropdusters, Chris Frost, Blind Joe, Whiskey Business, Blue English Band, and more

Pine County Fair

July 29–Aug. 2 in Pine City

Cost: Free (parking is free, events and carnival rides cost extra)
Attractions: Truck pull, tractor pull, demolition derby, carnival, Sunday Funday for kids with a pedal pull, baking contest
Live Music: A Hard Day’s Night Beatles Tribute Band, Freeway Jam, Mitch Gordon, Tail Spin, Two Steps From Country, Short of Cash (Johnny Cash Tribute), Rev Rychmynd, Mike Palmer & Jerry Lovgren, Inside Strait, Nathan Frazer, and more

Washington County Fair

July 29–Aug. 2 in Stillwater

Cost: $12 for 8 and over, free for 7 and under
Attractions: Opening day parade, pickup see-saw, bull riding, barrel racing, carnival rides, talent show, camel and pony rides,
Live Music: Joe Sir, Them Pasky Kids Band, Working Dogs Band, Jolly Huntsmen Polka

Becker County Fair

July 29–Aug 1 in Detroit Lakes

Cost: Free ($5 parking, events and rides cost extra)
Attractions: Wojo rodeo, barrel racing, tractor parade, volleyball tournament, midway
Live Music: TBA

Beltrami County Fair

Aug. 7–11 in Bemidji

Cost: Free (events and carnival rides cost extra)
Attractions: Baja races, rodeo, motocross, carnival, Farm Bureau Meat Cookoff
Live Music: TBA

Dakota County Fair

Aug. 10–16 in Farmington

Cost: $10 parking, $30 carnival (events cost extra)
Attractions: Bulls and Broncs Rodeo, barrel races, demolition derby, carnival, axe throwing show, storytimes, magic show, tractor parade, lumberjack show
Live Music: GB Leighton, Logan Mark, Andy Tacket, Drake Walters, Shaw Brothers, Johnny Table All-Stars, Richie Yurkovich and Polkarioty, Crimson Root, Rival 5, Ben Aaron, Cory Farley, and more

Carver County Fair

Aug. 12-16 in Waconia

Cost: $9, free for kids 6 and under (events and rides cost extra)
Attractions: Demolition derby, zoo, midway, sheep riding competition, demolition derby, Mutton Bustin’, pig races three times a day, goat yoga, speed jigsaw puzzle contest, human tractor pull, Wolves of the World
Live Music: Johnny Holm Band, Smokescreen, Sawyer’s Dream, The Dweebs, Deep Roots, Jake Nelson, Sparrow Road, Ragtown, and more

Brown County Free Fair

Aug. 12–16 in New Ulm

Cost: Free (events and carnival rides cost extra)
Attractions: Demolition derby, tractor pull, carnival rides, youth dance party, kids pedal pull
Live Music: Ikons of Rock, Self-Titled, Snake Oil

Lyon County Fair

Aug. 12–16 in Marshall

Cost: Free (events and rides cost extra)
Attractions: Rodeo, demolition derby, midway, The Amazing Bubble Factory, LEGO contest, pedal pull
Live Music: Whitesidewalls, Self-Titled, Rough House Rox, Time Machine, and more

Carlton County Fair

Aug. 13–16 in Barnum

Cost: Free (events cost extra)
Attractions: Tractor pull, horse racing, auto racing

Martin County Fair

Aug. 17–23 in Fairmont

Cost: $10, kids 9 and under are free, $5 on Sunday
Attractions: Great Frontier Bull Riding, daily Timberworks LumberJack Show, Ranch Rodeo, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, tractor parade, kids tractor pull, auto races, car show, Beer and Bacon Fest
Live Music: Little River Band, Colton Dixon, Johnny Holmes, Steele Prairie, Polka Dot, Small Time Band, and more

Steele County Free Fair

Aug. 18–23 in Owatonna

Cost: Free (events and rides cost extra)
Attractions: Minnesota’s largest county fair has an antique tractor pull, Bulls N Barrels Rodeo, demolition derby, carnival rides
Live Music: Hairball, Randy Houser, Cori Kennedy, Jeremy Camp, Jon Reddick, Rival 5, and more

Douglas County Fair

Aug. 19–22 in Alexandria

Cost: $10 in advance (online), kids 10 and under are free (events and carnival are extra)
Attractions: Demolition derby, Big Air ATV Tour, swing dance competition, children’s barnyard, rock climbing wall, kids pedal pull
Live Music: Aaron Tippin, Connie Lee, Brett Young, Chris Lane, Red Letter Band, Hellcat & the Hooligans, and more

Houston County Fair

Aug. 19–23 in Caledonia

Cost: Free
Attractions: Midway, magic show, demolition derby, truck and tractor pull, diaper derby, mutton bustin, Rogue Rodeo, LEGO contest, classic car show
Live music: Molly B & the Busta Band, Steele River Band, Blue Collar 40

McLeod County Fair

Aug. 20–23 in Hutchinson

Cost: Free
Attractions: Supercross, Ride MN BMX Stunt Show, autocross, pedal tractor pull, storytime with Princess Kay of the Milky Way
Live music: Blake Klaustermeier, Bill Litzau and Open Highway, Everett Smithson, Todd Hurst, The Johnny Holm Band, and more

Le Sueur County Free Fair

Aug. 20–23 in Le Center

Cost: Free (events and rides cost extra)
Attractions: Demolition derby, truck and tractor pull, car show, carnival rides, sweet corn feed, Paradise City Wrestling, truck and tractor pull, Ranch Rodeo
Live music: Doug Traxler & the Hired Hands, Sami Jo Tiede, John Scalia & the Dirty World, Mike Poot Band, and more

More county fairs taking place this summer:

• South St. Louis County Fair in Proctor: July 1–6
• Cannon Valley County Fair in Cannon Falls: July 1–4
• Mahnomen County Fair in Mahnomen: July 1–4
• Aitkin County Fair in Aitkin: July 8–11
• Polk County Fair in Fertile: July 8–12
• Waseca County Fair in Waseca: July 8–12
• Clay County Fair in Barnesville: July 9–12
• Chisago County Fair in Rush City: July 9–12
• Isanti County Fair in Cambridge: July 15–19
• Wabasha County Fair in Wabasha: July 15–18
• Sherburne County Fair in Elk River: July 16–19
• Redwood County Fair in Redwood Falls: July 16–19
• Anoka County Fair in Anoka: July 21–26
• Rice County Fair in Faribault: July 22–26
• Faribault County Fair in Blue Earth: July 22–25
• Marshall County Fair in Warren: July 22–26
• Scott County Fair in Jordan: July 22–26
• Wright County Fair in Howard Lake: July 22–26
• Kanabec County Fair in Mora: July 22–26
• Blue Earth County Fair in Mankato: July 23–26
• Olmstead County Fair in Rochester: July 27–Aug. 2
• Rock County Fair in Luverne: July 29–Aug. 1
• Chippewa County Fair in Montevideo: July 29–Aug. 2
• Sibley County Free Fair in Arlington: July 29–Aug. 2
• Stearns County Fair in Sauk Centre: July 29–Aug. 2
• Lincoln County Fair in Tyler: July 30–Aug. 2
• Benton County Fair in Sauk Rapids: Aug. 4–9
• Freeborn County Fair in Albert Lea: Aug. 4–9
• St. Louis County Fair in Chisholm: Aug. 5–9
• Mille Lacs County Fair in Princeton: Aug. 5–9
• Mower County Free Fair in Austin: Aug. 11–16
• Stevens County Fair in Morris: Aug. 11–16
• Nicollet County Fair in Saint Peter: Aug. 12–16
• Itasca County Fair in Grand Rapids: Aug. 19–23

The Lewis Small Animal Hospital shared the news on Wednesday, writing that the reduced hours will be temporary and will take effect on Monday, June 29. 

“Like many hospitals facing the current national challenges in veterinary recruitment, the Lewis Small Animal Hospital at the University of Minnesota VMC is experiencing a temporary shortage of overnight third-shift technicians,” the post details. 

“To maintain our high standards of patient care during peak utilization hours, we are implementing a temporary adjustment to our schedule.” 

The St. Paul-based hospital will now be closed from midnight through 8 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Emergency services will be available 24 hours a day from Sunday through Tuesday. 

The hospital also shared it is “actively recruiting to resolve this staffing gap as quickly as possible.”

For years, a severe shortage of veterinary professionals has plagued the industry, with Brooklyn Park-based MARS Veterinary Services sharing that even with the new graduates, a shortage of up to 24,000 companion-animal veterinarians is still anticipated by 2030. 

Amid the shortfall, the clinic found demand for services has exploded, increasing more than 6% each year. 

Yoon, ranked 39th in the latest World Golf Rankings, had nine birdies in a flawless round. She birdied the third, fourth, sixth, seventh, eighth, 14th, 15th, 17th, and 18th holes. She began her day teeing off on the 10th hole and was 4-under through the first nine, before finishing with birdies on five of the last seven holes.

"I didn't know I'm hitting like that much birdie today," Yoon said. "Yeah, it was fun to play out there. Was really nice weather. Many golf fans came out to watch us. Was really — yeah, was really nice, yeah."

Korda shot a 2-under 70, good for a tie for 11th place at the time of this writing.

Korda was actually 4-under through 15 holes before tumbling with a double bogey on the Par 4 16th. She hooked her drive into a creek on the left side of the fairway, and then three-putted to drop two strokes.

"Honestly, just made one bad swing, which ended up in a double," Korda said. "But overall, pretty happy with my day."

Each of the last ten KPMG Women's PGA Championship winners has either led or been within four strokes of the lead after Round 1.

Korda, if she were to win the tournament, would become only the third Women's PGA winner after overcoming a 7-or-more shot deficit after the first round.

News of the charges came on National Health Care Fraud Takedown Day on Tuesday, a coordinated effort with the Department of Justice and more than 40 states. In all, 455 people were charged in connection to $6.5 billion in fraud across the country. 

This list of those charged include Tremayne Lamar Jackson, who is accused of racking up $125,000 in bogus Medicaid reimbursements.

According to prosecutors, he claimed to have provided 6,000 hours of personal care assistant services, companion care services, and homemaker services in Minnesota when he was actually working as a college basketball coach in Kansas. 

Another defendant, Fernando Navarro, of Minneapolis, is accused of claiming to provide personal care assistant services in Minnesota to a child for nearly two years after the child moved out of the state. 

Prosecutors allege Ahmed Agwa, of Blaine, billed for services while a recipient was out of the country and after the patient died. 

Other defendants include: 

– Christine Marie Pryor, of Fargo, North Dakota

– Shawki Elsaid, of Blaine, Minnesota 

– Edward Sherrod, of Columbia Heights, Minnesota

– Jessica Wavra, of East Grand Forks, Minnesota

"I have no patience for anyone who would steal our tax dollars, especially when those tax dollars are meant to provide health care for low-income Minnesotans who couldn’t afford it otherwise,” said Attorney General Ellison in a statement. 

The charges come as the national spotlight continues to shine on Minnesota and fraud reported in state-run Medicaid programs.

Earlier this month, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) announced Thursday it has completed a “comprehensive top-to-bottom review” of nearly 5.600 Medicaid providers in high-risk programs across the state, dis-enrolling nearly a thousand for failed site visits. 

From late Friday to early Monday, both directions of Highway 62 will be off limits to traffic between Highway 100 and I-35W in Edina, as will westbound I-94 between I-694/I-494 in Woodbury and I-35E in St. Paul.

Crews will remove the existing Rosland Park Pedestrian Bridge on Highway 62 as part of Edina's bridge replacement project.

Bridges along I-94 in the east metro will be painted as Minnesota Department of Transportation continues its work to repair and maintain nine bridges over I-94 and I-35E in St. Paul, with weekend closures expected to continue periodically through August and into September.

Both closures are in effect from 10 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday.

Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS), the state’s largest public safety union, announced their nonprofit Benevolent Fund will begin accepting donations for Officer Austin Buss and his family.

The incident began when police in Mankato tried to stop a speeding vehicle on June 18, with the man fleeing onto northbound Highway 169 into Saint Peter.

Saint Peter officers deployed tire deflation devices near Highway 99, but the driver continued to drive off, eventually entering Bunker Lane, where the man fled into the townhome and barricaded himself. An adult female and a juvenile female had to be escorted out by law enforcement.

As officers were trying to go up a stairwell, the suspect, identified by the Minnesota BCA as Jordan Michael Donahue, 21, fired a shotgun from the second floor.

The gunfire hit Buss in the arm and in his ballistic vest, causing serious injuries, according to authorities. Both Buss and a Nicollet County Sheriff's deputy returned fire. Buss was rushed to River’s Edge Hospital and later airlifted to the Twin Cities for further treatment. 

Donahue was later found dead upstairs from a gunshot injury by a law enforcement drone.

A preliminary investigation by the Minnesota BCA details a shotgun and spent casings were found in the home. Body-worn cameras captured parts of the incident as well.

A LELS social media post states Buss “remains in recovery as he and his family face the difficult road.”

Donations can be made through the LELS website. 

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

On Wednesday, the festival announced that Lil Yachty would no longer be appearing on July 25, a day that is also scheduled to feature Dijon, Julianna Barwick and Mary Lattimore, and Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas.

However, a day later, a replacement has already been lined up. The National's Aaron Dessner, who is a co-founder of the festival with Justin Vernon, will join forces with British producer and songwriter Fred Again for a collaborative set on July 24.

No reason was given for Lil Yachty pulling up the anchor on the festival founded by Justin Vernon and Dessner.

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Tickets are still on sale for the two-day festival in Eau Claire, Wis. The lineup includes Aimee Mann, Bizhiki, Hotline TNT, and Bon Dylan, a set of Bob Dylan music performed by Bon Iver. 

Both cities placed highly in personal finance site WalletHub's annual list of the best places to celebrate the Fourth of July. The newly-released ranking has Minneapolis in fifth place and St. Paul just one spot behind.

That's one slot back from where both cities ranked last year, but keeps both of them near the top of the 100-city list.

While WalletHub might have dropped both cities by a spot, St. Paul is planning to be extra festive this year, with the Rotary Club of St. Paul bringing a non-Saints-affiliated fireworks display back to the capital.

Maybe the study decided it was red, white, and boring that both cities have named their firework displays "Red, White and Boom!"

The list compared the nation’s 100 most populous cities across five categories, each with a variety of data points, such as the legality of fireworks, duration of fireworks shows, prevalence of affordable restaurants, recreation friendliness, and access to public transportation.

Both Minneapolis and St. Paul ranked well in the attractions and activity rank and safety and accessibility rank categories. Though, somehow, Minneapolis placed 39th in Fourth of July weather while St. Paul placed 21st.

If you're looking for destinations outside of Minnesota, here's WalletHub's complete top-10 list for 2026.

1. Las Vegas, Nev.
2. New York, N.Y.
3. Orlando, Fla.
4. Los Angeles, Calif.
5. Minneapolis, Minn.
6. St. Paul, Minn.
7. San Francisco, Calif.
8. Atlanta, GA.
9. Seattle, Wash.
10. Sacramento, Calif.

This week, he announced the August release of his first solo album since 2015, which will be accompanied by a tour that stops at the Palace Theatre in St. Paul on Sept. 15.

"Thrasher," recorded in Nashville, has the "Mr. Brightside" singer jumping onto the country bandwagon with a tassle-adorned cover.

“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found my way back to my father’s music – ‘Country-Western’ (as he called it) – and discovered that the stories I carry really feel most at home in the skin of this beautiful American tradition,” Flowers says.

"Thrasher" features appearances from David Rawlings, Garth Brooks collaborator Bruce Bouton, and harmonica player Charlie McCoy, who has played on Bob Dylan records like "Nashville Skyline."

The first taste of the album will arrive on Friday, with the release of the first single, "Plans."

That's the same day that tickets will go on sale, at 10 a.m., for Flowers' return to the Palace Theatre, where The Killers played for Wells Fargo credit card holders last year.

Told Development Co. has submitted a proposal to the City of Eden Prairie for the redevelopment of a parking lot outside the Planet Fitness off of Flying Cloud Drive, with a Shake Shack at the northwest corner and a Valvoline Instant Oil Change at the northeast corner.

According to a staff report, the Shake Shack restaurant will be roughly 3,150 square feet, featuring 24 parking spaces and a drive-thru with capacity for about 11 vehicles on the north side of the building along Leona Road, "allowing parking to be located behind the building and to better facilitate cross-parking and access between the parcels."

The report doesn't say how many seats will be inside the restaurant and outside on a small patio.

More than 100 spaces will remain in the parking lot for Planet Fitness customers.

Shake Shack is a fast-casual chain best known for its 100% Angus beef smash burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, cheese fries, and hand-spun milkshakes.

Shopping malls are a common draw for Shake Shack, with its current Twin Cities locations within or near Bloomington's Mall of America, Edina's Southdale Center, Maple Grove's Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, and Roseville's Rosedale Center.

Plus, there's an outpost in a food court at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

Shake Shack also has restaurants in progress near Minnetonka's Ridgedale Center and the Woodbury Lakes shopping center.

Bring Me The News has reached out to Shake Shack for more information on its plans in the metro.

Justice has been a fixture on AM 1130 KTLK over the last decade, hosting a morning talk show from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. He previously hosted Justice and Drew Show alongside Andrew Lee before Lee’s sudden passing in 2022. 

“I wish I could respond to everyone,” Justice shared on social media. “But, thank you all for (your) kind words. When the dust settles I'll talk a bit more and hopefully in a way you're used to hearing me. Until then, it's been a pleasure the past ten years. Pray for my family and the next opportunities ahead.” 

It’s still unclear what will fill his previous time slot. 

The news involving Justice comes amid sweeping layoffs across dozens of iHeart stations across the country, as reported by trade publication Barrett Media. 

I wish I could respond to everyone. But, thank you all for kind words. When the dust settles I'll talk a bit more and hopefully in a way you're used to hearing me. Until then, it's been a pleasure the past ten years. Pray for my family and the next opportunities ahead.

— Jon Justice (@JonJustice) June 24, 2026

On-air talent from Anchorage, Alaska to Birmingham, Alabama was impacted by the cuts, with iHeart leadership reportedly writing the changes are technology driven, according to a memo obtained by the publication. 

“Faster is better, and that’s the goal of our changes,” the memo details.

“With that in mind, we’ve built new tech capabilities over the last several years that have enabled us to both deepen our relationships with the listeners and communities who depend on us and improve the support we provide to our sellers. We’re now moving to scale this approach, implementing structural changes within our Programming organization and expanding responsibilities for key leaders.” 

News of Justice's departure comes amid more changes in Twin Cities radio. Earlier this week, Hubbard Broadcasting ended the station’s afternoon Staci & Hutch show, which ran from 2–7 p.m. on weekdays and has been on the air since 2019.

The South St. Paul Paul Police Department said firefighters "discovered a fairly old chemical that is highly flammable and may be unstable given its age" while responding to a call in the 200 block of 22nd Avenue South.

The department said the St. Paul Police Department Bomb Squad was called to assist with safely transporting the chemical for eventual destruction.

"At this time we don't believe there to be a broader public safety risk and our responders should be out of the area shortly," police shared around 3 p.m.

Authorities have not shared details on the substance.

On June 18, an officer discovered Edward Olson, 72, and Carla Olson, 67, with apparent gunshot wounds in their home on the 30 block of Aspen Lane, according to the Babbitt Police Department.

The couple were pronounced dead at the scene, with their preliminary cause of death later confirmed as gunshot wounds.

"Both were citizens of Babbitt and were residents of the home where they were found deceased," reads a Wednesday news release from the police department.

An investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made.

Babbitt PD didn't share additional details about the circumstances of the shooting but said it believes there's no threat to the public.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

On Sunday, officers with the Detroit Lakes Police Department were called to the Fairfield Inn and Suites in Becker County, located at 102 West Lake Drive, after a drunk man was reportedly driving an excavator and causing significant damage. 

When law enforcement spoke with Alex Prescott-Hansen, 30, of Phoenix, AZ, he admitted to trying to drive the excavator, sharing he had been at a party at Zorbaz earlier that day. 

Prescott-Hansen was arrested and given a preliminary breath test, where he blew a .175 BAC. The legal limit to drive in Minnesota is .08. 

Detectives later spoke with a manager at a nearby hotel, who said he saw Prescott-Hansen driving the excavator, which was originally parked in front of Lakeside, a nearby restaurant. 

The excavator knocked down a new light pole, and caused major damage to a concrete sidewalk, before heading towards HUB 41 restaurant.

At HUB 41, the excavator damaged a handrail, and destroyed its sandboat sculpture, causing $40,000 in damage to that business alone. 

"Then the excavator appeared to drive to the Fairfield entrance where it caused damage to the hotel awning,"  per criminal charges. 

As of Wednesday evening, Prescott-Hansen was no longer in custody. 

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Isabel Lopez initially faced four felony charges and as many as eight years in prison. She pleaded guilty Tuesday to a single misdemeanor count of assaulting, resisting and impeding an officer, with the judge giving her credit for the year she served on supervised release and no additional probation.

Lopez and about 100 other anti-ICE protesters gathered on June 3, 2025 as Mexican restaurant Las Cuatro Milpas was raided. Protesters believed it was connected to immigration enforcement, though authorities then claimed it was part of a narcotics investigation.

Prosecutors alleged that Lopez kicked, punched and shoved FBI agents as they executed the search warrant and threw a softball in the direction of a Hennepin County sheriff’s deputy.

Lopez claimed in an Instagram post about the incident that she was yanked off a trash bin, slammed to the ground, and pinned by an FBI agent.

Video shared by independent journalist Georgia Fort shows a federal agent in fatigues holding Lopez to the ground, then picking up and pushing her.

Lopez is the first Minnesotan who's been convicted in federal court for protesting the Trump administration's heightened immigration enforcement in its second term, according to the Star Tribune.

Around three dozen people have been charged with similar crimes in connection with Operation Metro Surge, which began several months after the raid on Las Cuatro Milpas, though many of those cases have been dismissed.

"My case is now not the only case that’s being dropped or significantly reduced," Lopez wrote in an Instagram post on Tuesday. "I am one of more than 300."

Last week, the Minnesota U.S. Attorney's Office brought charges against 15 anti-ICE protesters accused of impeding immigration enforcement efforts between January and March, including by coordinating rapid response to ICE raids in Signal chats.

Frey shared his process and timeline for finding the next leader of the Minneapolis Police Department on Tuesday, calling it "one of the most important decisions a mayor can make" and vowing to "conduct a thorough search and get this right."

The mayor plans to hire a search firm to conduct a local and national search, with the goal of identifying a new police chief within 16 weeks. He said input from Minneapolis City Council members, MPD employees, and other community stakeholders will be taken into consideration throughout the process, including before the launch of the recruitment campaign.

"We've made significant progress to make Minneapolis safer over the last several years, but we still have work to do," Frey said in a statement. "This position demands someone who can lead a complex department, support officers, build trust with residents, and continue delivering results – both fighting crime and making reforms."

Former Police Chief Brian O'Hara resigned from the post a month ago rather than face disciplinary action for interfering with an independent investigation into sexual misconduct allegations.

Members of the Minneapolis City Council weren't aware of the probe until it reached its conclusion, leading immediately to O'Hara stepping down, and criticized Frey for nominating O'Hara to another term earlier in May.

Frey's argument was that he doesn't make decisions based on rumors and wouldn't have nominated O'Hara had he known the outcome of the investigation sooner.

Interim Police Chief Bill Peterson is expected to lead MPD until October or November, when Frey will likely submit his police chief nominee to the council, then return to his previous role of First Precinct inspector.

Also on Tuesday, the council's Committee of the Whole advanced a legislative directive seeking accountability and transparency from Frey, MPD and the Office of Community Safety, led by embattled Commissioner Todd Barnette, on their plans to stabilize public safety in Minneapolis following O'Hara's resignation.

"There are huge red flags about how MPD is operating right now, with consequences that are costing residents millions of dollars and impacting public safety," City Council Minority Leader Robin Wonsley said in a statement. "The City Council is asking the mayor to explain how things got so bad within MPD and his plan to turn things around – questions that residents deserve answers to.”

The full City Council is expected to vote on the legislative directive during its Thursday meeting.