>>Walz Reflects on First Anniversary of Hortman Killings
(St. Paul, MN) — Governor Tim Walz says this will be a somber week across Minnesota as the state marks one year (June 14th) since former House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman was killed in a politically motivated attack. Hortman’s husband, Mark, and the family’s dog, Gilbert, were also killed. Walz says the loss remains deeply painful and that Hortman’s absence was felt throughout this year’s legislative session as lawmakers worked to carry on her collaborative approach to governing. There has been no official announcement of memorial events or remembrances at the State Capitol to mark the anniversary.
>>One Dead in Grant County Fire
(Grant County, MN) — One person is dead following a house fire in rural Grant County early Sunday morning. The Grant County Sheriff’s Office says the fire was reported just after 1 a.m. in Land Township, southeast of Elbow Lake. A Traverse County deputy first spotted the blaze and alerted responders. When firefighters arrived, a home and several nearby structures were fully engulfed. One person was found dead inside the residence. The victim’s identity has not been released. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
>>Two New Wildfires Reported in Boundary Waters
(Duluth, MN) — Two new wildfires have been reported in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness east of Crane Lake. The U.S. Forest Service says the Tiger Fire, near the east end of Lac La Croix, is estimated at one acre, while the Loon Fire, east of Loon Lake, has grown to roughly five acres. Both fires were discovered Saturday afternoon, and firefighting crews are assessing suppression options. Officials are asking visitors to avoid the immediate areas. Meanwhile, the nearby Birch Bay Fire northwest of Ely was reported at about 90 percent containment over the weekend.
>>Thousands Celebrate Prince at Downtown Minneapolis Sing-Along
(Minneapolis, MN) — Thousands of Prince fans packed downtown Minneapolis on Saturday for a massive sing-along honoring the music icon ahead of what would have been his 69th birthday on Sunday. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey welcomed visitors from around the world, saying Prince believed in the power of love and helped make Minneapolis known across the globe. The crowd sang 13 Prince classics led by a 100-member community choir and music director Sanford Moore. Emcee Thomasina Petrus encouraged fans to “celebrate Prince like it’s 1999.” The event was part of Prince Celebration 2026, a weeklong tribute that included events in Minneapolis and at Paisley Park.
>>MN 511 Traveler Information Service Getting Major Upgrade
(St. Paul, MN) — Minnesota drivers are getting a preview of a redesigned 511 travel information system. The Minnesota Department of Transportation is testing a new version of the 511 website and mobile app to make traffic cameras, crash reports, road closures, construction projects, and weather alerts easier to find and navigate. MnDOT is encouraging users to try the pilot version and provide feedback through an online survey. The agency says the updated system is designed to improve the user experience and could be fully launched later this year. Minnesota’s 511 service provides real-time travel and road condition information statewide.
>>Minnesota Twins Announce New Wiffle Ball Field for Annunciation Church and School
(Minneapolis) – The Minnesota Twins invited staff, teachers, and students from Annunciation Church and School to Target Field on Sunday for a special announcement during pregame festivities. The Twins and the Minnesota Twins Community Fund say they will fully pay for renovations to the wiffle ball field at Annunciation. The field has served as a special recreation and community place for decades. The field will receive upgrades designed by HGA and will be constructed by Mortenson with on-site support from the Twins grounds crew. Work will begin this summer.
>>Follow These Tips to Coexist Safely with Minnesota Wildlife
(Undated) – Minnesota wildlife is becoming more active as summer gets underway-and the DNR says it’s up to residents to reduce conflicts. Wildlife Damage Specialist Brandon Kaiser says taking preventive steps, such as securing garbage and limiting attractants like bird feeders, can help protect both people and property. He adds that hunting, trapping, and physical barriers are key tools to manage animal populations and prevent issues before they start. If conflicts do happen, Kaiser recommends non-lethal hazing-using sound, movement, and other tactics to scare animals away. More tips on living safely with wildlife are available on the DNR’s website.
