>>Appleton Prison Could Re-Open
(Appleton, MN) — A long-vacant prison in western Minnesota appears closer to reopening. The Department of Homeland Security has released contracting documents seeking a 1,600-bed detention facility to support ICE operations. While the proposal does not specifically identify the former Prairie Correctional Facility in Appleton, the facility’s size matches the prison, which has been closed since 2010. Recent activity at the site, including facility upgrades, an ICE inspection, and job postings by owner CoreCivic, has fueled speculation that the prison could soon resume operations.
>>Federal Government Continues to Withhold ICE-Related Shooting Documents
(Minneapolis, MN) — Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty says the federal government is still withholding evidence sought in the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti(Pret-tee), as well as the shooting of Julio Sosa-Celis. In a statement released Friday, Moriarty criticized federal agencies for failing to fully comply with requests for records and other evidence needed for state investigations. She accused federal officials of obstructing the process and vowed to continue pursuing the materials through the courts. The federal government is expected to file its response by June 18th.
>>Birch Bay Fire Likely Started During Forest Service Chainsaw Work
(Ely, MN) — A wildfire northwest of Ely that investigators believe was likely sparked during chainsaw operations tied to U.S. Forest Service fuels reduction work is now 43 percent contained. The Birch Bay Fire remains at 35 acres, and firefighters continue making progress, mopping up hot spots and strengthening containment lines. Officials are asking the public to stay away from the North Arm Road area as crews remain on scene. A temporary flight restriction also remains in effect, and new fire restrictions in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness take effect today (Saturday) due to ongoing dry conditions.
>>Juvenile Injured in Cass Lake Shooting
(Cass Lake, MN) — Authorities are investigating a shooting in Cass Lake that left a juvenile male injured Thursday evening. The Cass County Sheriff’s Office says deputies responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 7 p.m. and learned multiple individuals had been shooting at one another. One juvenile was struck in the leg and was taken to Sanford Bemidji Medical Center with injuries that are not considered life-threatening. Investigators have identified several people of interest, including both juveniles and adults. The investigation remains ongoing.
>>Thousands Expected for Prince Sing-Along in Downtown Minneapolis
(Minneapolis, MN) — Organizers are expecting up to 15,000 people to gather in downtown Minneapolis this afternoon (Sat) for a massive Prince sing-along. Music director Sanford Moore says a 100-member choir will help lead the crowd through 13 Prince songs near the Prince mural by Target Center. The set-list begins and ends with “Purple Rain” and includes “Happy Birthday” ahead of what would have been Prince’s 68th birthday on Sunday. Lyrics will be displayed on large screens so everyone can join in. The free Prince celebration also features performances throughout the day, including a concert by CeeLo Green.
>>Alison Krause & Union Station Show Moved from Moorhead to Fargo
(Fargo, ND) — The Alison Krause and Union Station concert scheduled for June 16th at the Bluestem Amphitheatre in Moorhead is moving to Scheels Arena Fargo. Promoter Jade Presents shut down last week, putting many performances at the Bluestem Amphitheatre on hold. Bell Bank worked with Scheels Arena and other production partners to make sure the show still went on. Tickets for Alison Krause will be transferred to Ticketmaster, and those who have already purchased seats will get new tickets in the mail.
>>Great American Think-Off Returns to New York Mills
(New York Mills, MN) — A unique event that combines philosophy and public debate is returning to west-central Minnesota. The 33rd Annual Great American Think-Off will be held June 12th and 13th in New York Mills. This year’s question asks: “Has the pursuit of happiness made Americans unhappy?” Organizers say the event encourages people to explore big ideas and discuss them in a thoughtful way. Four finalists from a nationwide essay competition will travel to New York Mills to debate the topic before a live audience, which will vote to determine America’s Greatest Thinker.
>>2026 Miss Juneteenth Minnesota State Pageant Today
(Minneapolis, MN) — The third annual Miss Juneteenth Minnesota State Pageant is today(Sat) at the Trask Worship Center on the campus of North Central University in Minneapolis. Six contestants will compete for the state title under the theme, “Rediscovering Our Culture and Redefining Our Freedom.” Organizers say the pageant aims to promote leadership, public speaking, self-confidence, and education about the history and significance of Juneteenth. The event begins at 2 p.m. and concludes with a crowning ceremony.
>>Minnesota Lynx Shoot for Seventh Straight Victory
(Minneapolis, MN) — The Minnesota Lynx go for their seventh straight victory when the play the Seattle Storm today (Sat 12pm) at Target Center. The Lynx improved to 8-2 with an 87-84 win over Golden State Thursday night at home. Point guard Olivia Miles had a career-best 28 points and set a new rookie record with eight three-pointers made. The 3-8 Storm lost to the Phoenix Mercury 72-68 Wednesday in Seattle.
