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Minneapolis Public Schools confront significant deficits and enrollment challenges five years after a controversial 2020 plan aimed at equity. The district projects a shortfall of at least $25 million for the 2026-27 school year, with enrollment down from over 32,000 to around 28,900 students. Despite some recent improvements, many parents express disappointment over the plan's outcomes.
The University of Minnesota's animal laboratories faced eight "critical" issues during 2024 USDA inspections, making it the only Minnesota university with such violations. The report, from the National Anti-Vivisection Society, highlighted serious concerns impacting animal welfare, including instances where monkeys were deprived of water.
Roy Milton Burns, 48, of St. Paul, suffered critical injuries from gunfire following a dispute at Rick’s Cabaret in downtown Minneapolis early on October 5. Police reported that the altercation escalated from inside the strip club to the street, where Burns was shot around 3:40 a.m. His condition has since improved to satisfactory, but no arrests have been made.
Three Minneapolis mayoral candidates, Omar Fateh, DeWayne Davis, and Jazz Hampton, support a petition to enhance the separation between local police and federal agents enforcing immigration laws. The proposal includes measures to bar police from assisting federal agents during immigration enforcement and to protect individuals fleeing from such agents. Mayor Jacob Frey opposes some of the proposals, citing potential risks to public safety.
In Minneapolis, Ward 13's engaged voters have consistently influenced mayoral elections, with turnout rates significantly exceeding those of other wards. The affluent area accounted for up to 15% of the winning candidate's votes in recent races, shaping the city's political landscape. This trend highlights disparities in voting power across neighborhoods, impacting elected officials' priorities.
Anthony Scott's film, “Spotlight on Minnesota’s Triumphant African American Community,” highlights success stories from Minnesota's Black community. The documentary will be screened at various locations, including Pohlad Hall in Minneapolis, showcasing influential local figures. Scott aims to provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the thriving community amidst historical challenges.
Prospect Park residents reduced natural gas consumption by 29% from 2019 to 2024, largely due to local energy efficiency initiatives. These efforts resulted in a decrease of approximately 1,620 metric tons of carbon emissions, equivalent to the output of 378 gasoline cars annually.
Rick Kupchella's film “Precarious State” criticizes Minneapolis politicians but its funding sources remain undisclosed. Legal experts suggest that state law may require the anonymous donors to reveal their identities due to the film's timing before city elections. Kupchella describes his supporters as “business and community leaders,” but many potential donors deny involvement.
Minneapolis police reported a resurgence in vehicle vandalism, with 124 incidents of smash-and-grab break-ins over four days. High concentrations of damage occurred in various neighborhoods, with no arrests made yet. Residents are urged to report any related information to law enforcement.
Rigsby, a 4-month-old therapy puppy, supports Hennepin County first responders during challenging times. The English Springer Spaniel brings joy and comfort to staff facing difficult situations, including mass shootings and political violence. Trained by Soldier’s 6, Rigsby exemplifies the positive impact of therapy dogs in high-stress environments.