>>Minnesota State Patrol Lieutenant Uthe Dies by Suicide
(St. Paul, MN) –Officials say the Minnesota State Patrol is mourning the loss of a state trooper who died by suicide. Lieutenant Tyler Uthe was a respected leader, a dedicated servant, and a friend. A message from the State Patrol says that as they mourn Tyler’s loss, they are reminded that even those who spend their lives helping others sometimes need help themselves. Anyone who is struggling should call or text the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Lifeline for support. Lieutenant Uthe leaves behind a wife and two young children.
>>Morrison Calls for Action During Gun Violence Awareness Month
(Washington, D.C.) — As June marks Gun Violence Awareness Month, Minnesota Congresswoman Kelly Morrison is urging Congress to take action on gun violence prevention. Speaking on the House floor, Morrison shared letters from Minnesotans written in the aftermath of last August’s shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, where two students were killed. Morrison said families should not have to fear for their children’s safety at school and called on lawmakers to listen to the public. She advocated for measures including banning assault weapons, bump stocks, and high-capacity magazines, while also investing in mental health resources. June marks ten months since the Annunciation School shooting.
>>Containment Grows on Birch Bay Fire Near Ely
(Ely, MN) — Firefighters are making steady progress on the Birch Bay Fire northwest of Ely. The wildfire remains at 35 acres and is now 30 percent contained. More than 100 personnel are assigned to the fire near Burntside Lake. Crews have completed hose and saw lines around the perimeter and continue mopping up hotspots and strengthening containment lines. All evacuation orders have been lifted, but officials urge residents and visitors to avoid the North Arm Road area while firefighting operations continue. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
>>Salvation Army Marks National Donut Day
(St. Paul, MN) — The Salvation Army is marking National Donut Day today by honoring veterans and first responders across Minnesota. The annual event traces its roots to 1938 and recognizes the Salvation Army’s “Donut Lassies,” who served donuts, coffee, and encouragement to American troops during World War I. This year’s observance celebrates both military veterans and local first responders for their service and sacrifice. National Donut Day is held on the first Friday of June and remains one of the Salvation Army’s longest-running traditions.
>>Minnesota Schools Win Top Honors in Aquaculture Challenge
(Undated) — Two Minnesota schools have earned top awards in the 2026 Aquaculture Challenge, a Great Lakes regional science competition focused on aquaponics. The program gives students hands-on experience designing aquaponic systems that raise fish and grow plants using the same water supply. This year’s competition attracted more than 45 teams from across the Great Lakes region, with 16 teams completing projects. Harbor City International School in Duluth won the High School Division Overall Grand Prize and Best Business Pitch Award. John Adams Middle School in Rochester captured the Middle School Division Overall Grand Prize and Best System Design Award. The four-month challenge helps students explore science, engineering, math, and potential careers in aquaculture.
