>>Chauvin Seeks New Trial in George Floyd Case
(Minneapolis, MN) — Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin is continuing his effort to overturn his state murder conviction in the killing of George Floyd. A Hennepin County judge heard arguments this week on Chauvin’s request for post-conviction relief. His attorneys argue newly raised medical evidence and alleged trial errors justify a new trial. Prosecutors say the claims have already been considered or lack merit and are asking the court to deny the request. The judge has not yet ruled.
>>New Wildfire Reported in Boundary Waters Wilderness
(Tower, MN) — The U.S. Forest Service is responding to a new wildfire in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The Long 2 Fire was estimated at one to two acres as of Thursday evening. It is burning south of Pine Lake in Cook County. Officials are asking visitors to avoid the area while firefighters respond. The Forest Service also reminds the public that drones are prohibited in the Boundary Waters because they can interfere with wildfire suppression efforts.
>>DNR Steps Up Impaired Boating Enforcement for Holiday Weekend
(St. Paul, MN) — The Minnesota DNR and other law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols on lakes and rivers this Fourth of July weekend as part of the national Operation Dry Water campaign. DNR Lt. Eric Sullivan says the goal is simple: making sure everyone gets home safely. He says alcohol continues to be a leading factor in serious boating incidents. Sullivan is reminding boaters to designate a sober operator, wear a life jacket, and make safe decisions while enjoying Minnesota’s waterways.
>>Minnesota’s First Hyperscale Data Center Nearing Completion
(Rosemount, MN) – Minnesota’s first hyperscale data center is nearing completion in Rosemount. Meta’s 715,000-square-foot facility is expected to be finished later this summer. Hyperscale data centers are massive computer facilities that store and process enormous amounts of data, powering cloud computing, artificial intelligence and services like Facebook, Instagram and other online platforms. The project has sparked debate over water use, electricity demand and transparency, while city officials say Meta has met all local requirements and is paying for needed infrastructure upgrades.
>>Minnesota DNR Expands Deer Feeding Ban to More Counties
(Undated) – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is expanding its ban on feeding deer and using deer attractants in an effort to slow the spread of chronic wasting disease. Five counties have been added to the restrictions: Becker, Clearwater, Grant, McLeod and Meeker. That brings the total number of counties under the ban to 37. Wildlife experts say feeding deer can lead to overcrowding, making it easier for diseases to spread. More information is available on the Minnesota DNR website.
>>Litchfield Woman Injured After Deer Crash in Meeker County
(Meeker County, MN) – A Litchfield woman suffered non-life-threatening injuries after a deer-related crash in Meeker County early Friday morning. The Sheriff’s Office says 50-year-old Amber Ray reported hitting a deer near a county road in Acton Township around 5:30 a.m. Ray then lost control and went into a ditch. Deputies arrived to find her unconscious inside the vehicle and forced entry to reach her. She was taken to Meeker Memorial Hospital. Several agencies assisted at the scene.
>>Court Orders Removal of Rat Poison in Mankato Dog Safety Case
(Mankato, MN) – Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has won a court order requiring two Mankato residents to remove rat poison allegedly placed near a public sidewalk to discourage dogs from urinating on their lawn. State officials say at least one dog consumed the poison and required emergency treatment. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, alleges the rodenticide was used illegally and posed a risk to pets, wildlife, and children. A judge has ordered the poison removed and allowed inspectors access to the property.
>>Medical Experts Stress Safety with Fireworks
(Undated) – If you’re planning to light fireworks this Fourth of July, health experts say safety should come first. More than 14-thousand Americans were treated in emergency rooms for serious fireworks injuries in 2024, including more than 17-hundred injuries involving sparklers. Dr. Lisa Mattson, president of the Minnesota Medical Association, says people should take the risks seriously. Doctors recommend attending professional displays whenever possible.
>>World Cup Buzz Fuels Soccer Growth in Central Minnesota
(Sartell, MN) – As soccer fans follow World Cup action across North America this summer, local programs are seeing the sport’s popularity continue to grow. Sartell Soccer Association Director of Coaching and Player Development Roy Snyder says the club has expanded from just a handful of teams a decade ago to 21 competitive teams and hundreds of players today. Snyder says demand for field space is high, and there’s also a growing need for more indoor facilities to support year-round play.
