Minneapolis Local Pulse

Good morning, this is Minneapolis Local Pulse for Saturday, June 21, 2025. We’re starting our day under a NEXT Weather Alert as dangerous heat and humidity settle in, with temperatures pushing near 90 by midday and heat indices reaching the upper 90s. Meteorologists are urging folks to take extra care if spending time outside, especially at events or parks today. This heat is expected to last through the weekend, so stay hydrated and check in on neighbors and family.

Looking at city hall, the city continues to move forward on police reforms even after a recent federal court setback. Minneapolis leadership has committed to implementing all provisions negotiated in the consent decree, reinforcing a focus on constitutional policing and community partnerships to keep us safe and build trust in public safety.

Turning to breaking news and public safety, the city is still reeling after the tragic targeted shooting of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark earlier this week at their home. The suspect, identified as Vance Boelter, remains in custody, and the case is being investigated as politically motivated. Last night, hundreds gathered at Champlin Park High School for a unity event, coming together in grief and hope, choosing healing and community over fear. No other major incidents have been reported in Minneapolis in the past 24 hours.

On the lighter side, Minneapolis adds to its culinary reputation as two local chefs brought home James Beard Awards this week, with our food scene receiving national recognition. In business news, several new coffee shops and small eateries are opening across the North Loop and Uptown, bringing fresh flavors to local storefronts, while a few longtime retailers on Hennepin Avenue have announced summer closures due to rising rents, underscoring the city’s changing retail landscape.

In real estate, the average home price in Minneapolis now sits at just under four hundred twenty thousand dollars, with inventory remaining tight but new listings ticking up as summer heats up. On the job front, the city unemployment rate is holding steady near four percent, with major employers in healthcare and tech hosting job fairs downtown this week, offering dozens of new openings for local workers.

There’s no shortage of summer fun this weekend, from Juneteenth celebrations in Powderhorn Park to the ever-popular Cat Tour, which has drawn national attention and is expected to see record turnout. For music lovers, the Stone Arch Bridge Festival is in full swing with local bands performing all afternoon.

In school news, Minneapolis South High’s basketball team made it to the regional finals, and coach Eric Rolland of Augsburg University is heading to a national golf tournament, bringing local pride to the greens.

Before we go, a quick feel-good note: a Minneapolis teacher has been helping high school basketball players get noticed by college coaches, opening doors for the next generation of local athletes.

This has b

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Good morning, this is Minneapolis Local Pulse for Friday, June 20, 2025. Our city is starting the day under the shadow of some intense weather. Meteorologists are warning us of two rounds of severe storms moving across Minnesota today. This means our morning commute could be messy, with high winds, heavy rain, and plenty of lightning. The afternoon and evening may bring even more storms, so if you’re making plans for later, keep an eye on the sky. Highs are expected in the 80s with sticky humidity, and it looks like this sultry weather will stick around into the weekend.

Turning to breaking news, community safety remains top of mind. The city continues its work on police reform, with Mayor Jacob Frey recently issuing an executive order to ensure the reforms outlined in the federal consent decree are implemented locally. This effort underscores our commitment to both constitutional and effective policing, even as federal approval was denied. These changes are meant to rebuild trust and strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and our neighborhoods.

On the crime front, there’s still a somber mood in North Minneapolis after the tragic shooting of former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark inside their Brooklyn Park home last weekend. The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office says state charges against the accused, Vance Boelter, will move forward. In response to the shooting, neighbors on Broadway and Penn are banding together to boost security and support one another. It’s a powerful show of community resilience.

Meanwhile, Minneapolis police responded quickly to a planned “takeover” event at the largest playground in Crystal, where concerns rose after hundreds of teens intended to gather. That area is now off-limits for the moment as authorities assess how to ensure safety for everyone. It’s a reminder of how we all need to stay vigilant and look out for each other.

Shifting to City Hall, there’s been a positive development for the job market. The City Council voted to broaden anti-discrimination policies, now protecting job seekers and workers from bias based on height, weight, housing status, or even criminal history. This means more Minneapolis residents can pursue job opportunities on a fair, level playing field.

Real estate continues to sizzle. Downtown and the North Loop are seeing strong interest, with home prices up slightly from last year and rental vacancies tightening. Employers are also hiring, with more than a thousand new jobs posted this past week, especially in hospitality, health care, and green energy.

Culturally, we’re still feeling the energy from lively Juneteenth celebrations at Powderhorn Park and in North Minneapolis, with music and dancing bringing folks together from across the city. Tonight, First Avenue hosts a sold-out show from local band Poliça, and the Stone Arch Bridge Festival returns tomorrow along the riverfront.

A quick shoutout to the Washburn High School baseball team, which clinched

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Good morning, this is Minneapolis Local Pulse for Thursday, June nineteenth.

We start today with the Juneteenth holiday, and our city is alive with celebration. Many of us are off work, as city and federal offices, banks, and the post office are closed today. On West Broadway, from Lyndale to Emerson, the annual block party kicks off at noon. It is a vibrant celebration of Black culture, featuring live music, entertainment, dozens of Black-owned businesses, a kids' carnival, and more. Down on East Lake and Minnehaha, the Soul of the Southside festival takes over the neighborhood from noon to eight, blending music, galleries, food trucks, dance, and storytelling. And tonight at Orchestra Hall on Nicollet Mall, the Minnesota Orchestra highlights Black composers and artists in a special Juneteenth freedom concert. If you are near the Minneapolis Institute of Art on Third Avenue South, you can catch LAAMAR and other performers, starting at five.

As we look ahead, the weekend brings even more Juneteenth festivities across the metro, including a family celebration at the State Capitol and a parade and youth talent show in Brooklyn Park. So, there is truly something for everyone this week.

Weather-wise, we are waking up to mild temperatures, with highs expected in the upper seventies today. There is a small chance of scattered rain in the late afternoon, so keep an umbrella handy if you are out at any of these outdoor festivals. Tomorrow, we should see more sun and a touch warmer, so summer is definitely here.

Turning to city hall, council activities remain mostly quiet this week, as many regular meetings are paused in recognition of the holiday. But city leaders are reminding residents that summer road maintenance is picking up, so watch for lane closures, especially along Hennepin Avenue and Washington Avenue as crews work through the weekend.

In local news, our community continues to reflect on the shocking violence that recently targeted Minnesota lawmakers. There have been no new incidents overnight, but a visible police presence remains around key government buildings and in certain neighborhoods as investigations continue. Officials encourage anyone with information to reach out, and public vigilance is appreciated as we work toward healing and safety.

On the business front, a couple of new café openings are drawing crowds. A bakery just opened near Bryant and Lake, with rave reviews on social media about their cardamom buns. Meanwhile, a popular vintage shop on Nicollet announced they will be relocating, making room for another new retail experience coming later this summer.

In sports, our high school baseball teams wrapped up their season with Washburn narrowly edging out Southwest in a nail-biter at Parade Stadium. And in professional news, the Minnesota Lynx are back at Target Center tonight, facing Las Vegas. Tickets are still available.

To end on a bright note, a group of North Minneapolis teens completed a mural over the weekend, t

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Good morning, this is Minneapolis Local Pulse for Tuesday, June seventeenth, twenty twenty-five.

We start today with the latest on the shocking attacks that have shaken Minnesota politics. Prosecutors say the suspect charged in the shooting death of one lawmaker and the injury of another had dozens of officials on his list of potential targets. Thanks to the urgent response by law enforcement, more potential tragedies were averted, including a near-miss at the home of Senator Ann Rest. The suspect was apprehended after a dramatic search that included abandoned vehicles and evidence left along Minneapolis highways. While the community is still processing these events, local leaders are urging calm and unity as investigations continue.

Turning to our weather, Minneapolis faces another day of on-and-off severe storms. Forecasters warn that heavy rain, the chance for flash floods, and even tornadoes remain a risk through at least Wednesday. If you have outdoor plans, watch the skies and check alerts, especially this morning and late afternoon. Temperatures stay in the mid-seventies, though humidity will make it feel a bit warmer.

At City Hall, Mayor Jacob Frey has confirmed that police reforms will move forward despite a federal court denying the city's proposed consent decree. The city pledges to implement new measures that aim to improve both public safety and trust between residents and the police. This follows the council’s recent expansion of local employment protections, now covering height, weight, housing status, and justice-impacted individuals.

On the business front, local coffee favorite North Loop Brews is celebrating a grand reopening on Washington Avenue after renovations. Meanwhile, a longtime Lake Street bakery announced it will close at the end of June, citing rising costs and supply chain struggles.

If you’re looking for community events, tonight Powderhorn Park hosts its summer music series opener with local jazz ensembles. The Walker Art Center is offering free admission tomorrow afternoon for residents wanting to escape the storms. And for families, the Midtown Farmers Market will be open Thursday morning with early summer produce.

In education, congratulations go out to the Roosevelt High robotics team, which took home first place in last weekend’s regional competition. Shout out as well to the University of Minnesota Golden Gopher men’s hammer throwers—they posted a historic one-two finish at the NCAA Championships, making them the best in the nation this year.

Crime-wise, aside from the high-profile shooting, Minneapolis police report a quieter night overall, though they do urge residents around Lake Nokomis to be alert after a rash of car break-ins reported late Monday.

Let’s end with something uplifting—the Minnehaha Creek cleanup campaign saw over two hundred neighbors join hands on Sunday, gathering nearly two thousand pounds of litter. Volunteers said it was inspiring to see so many families, teens, and retirees w

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Good morning, this is Minneapolis Local Pulse for June 14, 2025. We're starting with breaking news from the Minneapolis school district, which is facing a significant challenge. The district announced it will be cutting about 400 positions due to a $75 million shortfall. St. Paul Public Schools is also making budget cuts to address a $51.5 million deficit. This news comes as we see how these financial decisions affect our community's education system.

In city hall updates, Mayor Jacob Frey recently issued an executive order aimed at implementing police reforms. Even though the federal court denied approval of the proposed consent decree, Minneapolis is moving forward with these reforms to enhance public safety and community trust.

Looking at the weather, today's forecast shows highs in the upper 60s, with scattered rain and thunder possible. If you're planning outdoor activities, make sure to check the forecast before heading out.

In new business activity, a vacant retail space in Brooklyn Center is getting a fresh start. O Pretty Events and Rentals will move into the space at Humboldt Square, offering services for weddings and corporate events. This addition should help address the area's shortage of event spaces.

The cultural scene is buzzing with The Weeknd performing tonight at U.S. Bank Stadium. Get ready for an exciting evening of music.

In sports, the Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for the season with a focus on head coach Kevin O'Connell, wide receiver Justin Jefferson, and quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Local sports fans are eager to see how the team performs this year.

On the crime front, there was a significant incident in St. Paul recently where a motorist struck and injured three officers during a traffic stop. The suspect is now in custody. In Minneapolis, a judge ruled that the city's public schools can be added to a wrongful death lawsuit following a school bus accident.

In real estate, Minneapolis continues to see changes with new developments and businesses moving in. On the job market, the city council's recent decision to broaden employee protections by adding new protected classes should positively impact hiring practices.

Finally, in community news, we're celebrating the Golden Valley Rotary Citizen of the Year award. This recognition highlights the community's commitment to service and volunteerism.

This has been Minneapolis Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Minneapolis Local Pulse for Thursday, June 12th, 2025.

We start today with a big move out of City Hall. Mayor Jacob Frey just issued a new executive order on police reforms, even after a federal court dismissed the proposed consent decree last month. The city says it’s pushing ahead with all those negotiated reforms anyway, aiming for more effective and constitutional policing, with continued focus on community trust and officer well-being. These reforms are already showing up in the way safety services operate citywide, and we’ll be watching how this shapes daily life in each neighborhood.

Looking at the weather, it’s a pleasant start to Thursday. We’re dry through today, but keep an umbrella handy—rain looks likely by tomorrow afternoon and could stick around into the night. Temperatures hold steady in the low seventies, perfect for squeezing in those outdoor lunch plans or a stroll around Lake Harriet before the showers arrive.

On the job front, Minneapolis continues to lead with progressive workplace protections. The City Council has broadened anti-discrimination rules for local workers, adding height, weight, housing status, and justice-impacted status as new protected classes. That means more fair hiring practices and a boost for hundreds of job seekers, especially those turning a new page after past legal troubles.

If you’re in the market for a home, steady demand means prices haven’t cooled much, with the median home in Minneapolis now hovering just below four hundred thousand dollars. That’s kept the real estate scene competitive, especially around popular spots like Linden Hills and Longfellow.

In business news, the North Loop sees another new face: Sweet Sable Bakery opens its doors on Washington Avenue today, joining a wave of small business launches headed into summer. Meanwhile, a few downtown office towers are adjusting as more organizations shift permanently to hybrid work, making way for new coworking and creative spaces.

There’s plenty to do in the coming days. Tonight from six to seven thirty, the African Development Center on South 5th Street hosts a Jumping into June community event—always a good spot to connect over local art and food. Next week, dog lovers won’t want to miss the East Bank Dog Parade, starting Friday at Main Street Park and winding down Hennepin Avenue. And of course, mark your calendars for the Minneapolis People’s Pride event at Powderhorn Park on Saturday, June 28th, bringing music, food trucks, and a parade for all.

Some inspiring local achievements to share: South High’s robotics team just clinched first place at the regional competition, and Southwest High’s girls softball team celebrates a doubleheader sweep. It’s worth cheering these young talents as they make Minneapolis proud.

Turning to public safety, police responded to several property crime reports overnight in the Uptown area, with arrests made after a string of car break-ins along Fremont Avenue. The department u

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Good morning, this is Minneapolis Local Pulse for Saturday, June 7, 2025.

We begin today with some major news from the Hennepin County Courthouse. Derrick Thompson has been found guilty on all counts in the tragic south Minneapolis crash that killed five young women nearly two years ago. Emotions ran high as the families of the victims finally saw justice served. This case has touched many in our city, and we’re keeping the friends and loved ones of those lost in our thoughts.

In other developing news, a shooting last night outside Northtown Mall in Blaine left one person dead and another in custody. Authorities responded quickly, and while the incident happened north of Minneapolis, it’s a stark reminder to stay vigilant, especially in crowded public spaces this weekend. Closer to home, park police are stepping up patrols in popular areas like Boom Island through June 22 after a recent shooting there.

From City Hall, we’re keeping an eye on Tuesday's upcoming Business, Housing, and Zoning Committee meeting. Big decisions include bond approvals for affordable housing projects on Franklin and Columbus Avenues and another round of Minneapolis Homes financing. These efforts directly impact housing availability and affordability in our neighborhoods. Discussions will also continue about expanding sauna licensing, which could provide a boost to local wellness businesses.

Weatherwise, we’re starting this Saturday with mild temperatures in the mid-60s, warming up to the low 80s by afternoon. It’s expected to be mostly sunny, perfect for the Stone Arch Bridge Festival and the Mill City Farmers Market. A chance of scattered showers could roll in late, so you might want to pack an umbrella just in case.

On the job front, Minneapolis is adjusting to new city council amendments that broaden employee protections. As of last month, employers can no longer discriminate based on height, weight, housing status, or justice-impacted status. This change is designed to open doors for more job seekers and create fairer workplaces for everyone.

In real estate, inventory remains tight across the city, with homes in neighborhoods like Nokomis and Northeast averaging just two weeks on the market. Median home prices are holding steady around four hundred twenty thousand dollars. Renters can expect continued demand for apartments, especially in Uptown and Dinkytown.

For music lovers, First Avenue is hosting a weekend festival celebrating local bands, and the Guthrie Theater kicks off its summer Shakespeare series tonight. Sports-wise, the Twins dropped a close one yesterday to the Blue Jays, but the mood is still high, with the team holding second place in their division. High school sports are wrapping up with Eastview making their first state tournament appearance in boys volleyball, a milestone for the program.

A few new businesses have opened recently, including a locally-owned bakery on Nicollet Avenue and a boutique fitness studio in the North Loop. Meanwhile,

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Good morning, this is Minneapolis Local Pulse for Friday, June 6, 2025.

Minneapolis is under an air quality alert today due to wildfire smoke drifting down from Canada. The alert covers northern Minnesota through Friday, so if you're heading outdoors, especially those with respiratory conditions, take necessary precautions.

At City Hall, the council recently voted to lower street food cart license fees in hopes of encouraging fruit sellers to operate legally throughout the city. This follows May's broadening of employee protections, which now include height, weight, housing status, and justice-impacted status as protected classes for workers.

In public safety news, authorities are continuing their search for a missing person known as "Manny," with the investigation now approaching the one-month mark. Forensic work is ongoing as officials pursue leads in the case.

A significant development for boaters – Minnesota will soon require adults to obtain permits to operate boats or personal watercraft on state waters. If you're planning summer activities on our lakes, make sure you're aware of these new regulations.

The sports scene is active with Minnetonka High School baseball advancing to state after a dramatic walk-off win against Chanhassen. Meanwhile, the Twins had a tough outing yesterday, falling to the Athletics 14-3 as Soderstrom hit both a grand slam and a two-run homer for Oakland.

In business news, Black Sheep Pizza is facing legal challenges with a $200,000 lawsuit for back rent at their now-closed south Minneapolis location. Several childcare centers in neighboring St. Paul are closing, affecting many families who now need to find alternative arrangements.

Looking at community events, the Eagan park is showcasing a unique blend of nature and art that's worth visiting this weekend. The Great Northfield Book Fair is also happening if you're looking for literary treasures.

In a heartwarming development, the new Minnesota Military and Veterans Museum is under construction near Camp Ripley in Little Falls. When completed in late 2026, it will be eight times larger than the existing facility and will honor both service members and the refugee experience.

Weather today calls for possible thunderstorms with temperatures reaching the mid-70s, so keep an umbrella handy if you're heading to any outdoor events.

This has been Minneapolis Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Minneapolis Local Pulse for Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

Our city is reeling after a tragic shooting at Boom Island Park late Sunday night that left one 23-year-old woman dead and five men injured. Witnesses described the scene as a "war zone" with what sounded like continuous gunfire. Minneapolis Police are investigating, with hundreds of pieces of evidence found at the scene. This comes as authorities continue their investigation into another recent shooting at Mariucci Arena following a high school graduation ceremony that injured two people. A 20-year-old Coon Rapids man now faces charges in connection with that incident.

The Minnesota Department of Health has confirmed two additional measles cases, bringing the total to four in 2025. One case involves an unvaccinated child who was infectious while at the Mall of America.

At City Hall, the Minneapolis City Council recently expanded employee protections by adding three new protected classes: height and weight, housing status, and justice-impacted status. These changes, approved on May 1, prohibit employers from using these factors in hiring and firing decisions.

Looking ahead, the City Planning Commission meets this evening at 4:30 to review an application for a 6-story, 60-unit residential development on Washburn Avenue North. Speaking of housing, rental prices continue to climb across Minnesota, so prepare for sticker shock if you're apartment hunting.

In weather news, we're facing smoky skies today with an air quality alert extended through Wednesday. Northwestern Minnesota is expected to reach "hazardous for all" levels. The forecast calls for hot temperatures with strong thunderstorms possible this evening.

Some good news for our community: Hennepin County maintains its "effective end" to veteran homelessness, as Minnesota nears a statewide milestone in addressing this important issue.

In sports, the Minnesota Lynx defeated the expansion Golden State Valkyries 86-75 on Sunday night, with Napheesa Collier delivering an impressive 24 points and 11 rebounds.

State lawmakers have reached a K-12 education funding agreement, though a special session hasn't been called yet. Meanwhile, thousands of state workers are receiving layoff notices as the budget standoff continues. If no agreement is reached by month's end, Minnesota faces its first government shutdown since 2011 on July 1.

Local theaters expect packed houses for summer blockbusters including "Lilo and Stitch" and "Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning." Perfect entertainment options as we head into the summer season.

This has been Minneapolis Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Minneapolis Local Pulse for Saturday, May 31, 2025.

We begin with breaking news from last night on the University of Minnesota campus. Police responded to a shooting just after 8 p.m. outside 3M Arena at Mariucci, right after the Wayzata High School graduation ceremony. Two people were injured and taken to the hospital, and police have a suspect in custody. Authorities say there is no ongoing threat to the area, but the investigation continues, with support from the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office. We’ll bring updates as more information becomes available. This incident comes during a period when city leaders are seeing progress on public safety, with Mayor Jacob Frey highlighting declines in violent crime and carjackings citywide. Still, as we saw last night, the city’s focus remains on strong response and prevention.

Turning to today’s weather, there’s an air quality alert in effect due to smoke drifting in from wildfires in Canada. The alert runs through Sunday evening for much of central and northern Minnesota, and while Minneapolis may see hazy skies and some impact, sensitive groups should limit time outdoors if smoke becomes noticeable. Today’s temperatures hover in the upper seventies with a slight breeze, and it should stay dry—good news for those heading out to weekend events.

It’s a busy stretch around town. The Uptown Art Fair returns along Hennepin Avenue, drawing artists and visitors from across the region. Over in Northeast, prepare for road closures as businesses set up for summer block parties on Central Avenue. On the South Side, local food trucks will gather at Powderhorn Park for the Saturday Eats festival, running through the afternoon.

In City Hall, council members continue to debate budget priorities after last December’s override of the mayor’s budget veto. Focus has shifted to affordable housing and public safety funding, and several long-serving council members have announced they won’t seek reelection this fall. If you live in Wards Five, Eight, or Eleven, you’ll see new names on the ballot as the council race heats up over the summer.

For those in the job market, Minneapolis hiring has picked up, especially in health care and tech. Job postings in the metro area are up about eight percent from this time last year, with hospitals along Hiawatha Avenue and tech offices downtown leading the way.

In real estate, average home sale prices have climbed to just above four hundred fifty thousand dollars, reflecting strong demand in neighborhoods like Nokomis and Linden Hills.

A quick note for drivers: Interstate 494 is closed between Highway 77 and Highway 100 through early Monday morning. Expect detours and plan ahead if you’re heading out of town or to the airport.

Sports fans have plenty to cheer for this weekend. The Twins are back at Target Field for a home stand, while the Lynx travel for a key matchup. Local high school teams continue their playoff runs, with Washburn’s baseball squad advan

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