>>Governor’s Fishing Opener Underway in Stillwater

(Stillwater, MN) — Minnesota’s 78th Governor’s Fishing Opener is underway this weekend in Stillwater.  Governor Tim Walz preparing to hit the water Saturday morning on the St. Croix River.  Walz joked about protecting his fishing reputation while professional guide Evan Rosemore promised to help him land a catch.  With more than 60 fish species in the river, Walz says catching anything would count as a success. This year marks the final time Walz will host the annual Governor’s Fishing Opener.

>>Stillwater Mayor Kozlowski Proud to Host Governor’s Fishing Opener

(Stillwater, MN) — The mayor of Stillwater says he is proud that his city is hosting this year’s Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener. Mayor Ted Kozlowski said, “It’s huge, and get to chosen is really special.” He added that we’re known as the Land of 10 thousand Lakes, but we also have the most beautiful river in the country in our backyard. Kozlowski says fishing on the St. Croix River is not easy, and he is hoping to catch a few fish himself tomorrow (Sat). There’s a community celebration this afternoon in downtown Stillwater.

>>Minneapolis City Council Passes Gun Control Ordinance

(Minneapolis, MN) – An ordinance passed unanimously by the Minneapolis City Council on Thursday bans assault weapons, large-capacity magazines, binary triggers, and ghost guns. It also prohibits possession of guns on city-owned property and public places like businesses, event venues, and places of worship; and regulates storage of firearms. Council member Aurin Chowdhury said, “Weapons of war do not belong in our neighborhoods. And today, Minneapolis is saying: enough.” The cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Edina have passed gun control ordinances in response to the mass shooting at Annunciation Church and School last August.

>>Red Flag Warning Issued for 24 Minnesota Counties

(Chanhassen, MN) — Two dozen Minnesota counties are under a Red Flag Warning this afternoon (Fri) due to extreme fire risk conditions. The D-N-R says fires can spread quickly and grow out of control when there’s low humidity and strong winds. Burning is prohibited in the warned counties, and permits will not be issued for burning vegetation and yard waste. The affected counties are mainly in western, central, and southwestern Minnesota. Here’s the list: Becker, Benton, Cass, Chippewa, Clay, Crow Wing, Douglas, Grant, Kanabec, Kandiyohi, Lac Qui Parle, Mahnomen, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Norman, Otter Tail, Pope, Sherburne, Stearns, Stevens, Swift, Todd, Wadena, and Wilkin.

>>MPCA Officials Warn of Active Summer for Air Quality Alerts

(St. Paul, MN) — State environmental officials are warning Minnesotans to prepare for another summer of unhealthy air and smoke from Canada, expected to trigger multiple air quality alerts. Meteorologists with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency say we could see between 12 and 16 days impacted by wildfire smoke and another four to six days with elevated ozone pollution during the summer months. M-P-C-A Meteorologist Matt Taraldsen warns that repeated exposure to wildfire smoke can create serious health risks over time. He also recommends staying indoors with filtered air during periods of heavy smoke.

>> U of M Experts Say Mental Health More Common Than Many Believe

(Minneapolis, MN) – It’s Mental Health Awareness Month, and experts at the University of Minnesota say one of the biggest myths is that mental health conditions are rare. In reality, they’re common-and more people are seeking help as stigma continues to fade. U of M Professor Tim Moore says conversations around mental health are happening more openly today, in schools, families, and across society. He says that shift is helping people recognize symptoms and access care, from primary doctors to virtual visits and crisis lines. Experts also stress early support for children can make a lasting difference. And if you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available-call or text 9-8-8.

>>Twins Open Weekend Series in Cleveland

(Cleveland, OH) — The Minnesota Twins open an American League Central Division series tonight (Fri) in Cleveland. The Twins are coming off a 7-5 loss to the Nationals in the series finale Thursday in Washington, D-C. Connor Prielipp is scheduled to start for Minnesota in the opener. Parker Messick is on the mound for Cleveland. The 20-19 Guardians lead the A-L Central. The 16-22 Twins are in last place in the division.