Word on the streets of Minneapolis-Saint Paul is that these have been days of both reflection and resilience for our cities. I’m Morgan Riley, and here’s what’s shaping our community right now.
We begin with the ongoing aftermath of last weekend’s tragic shooting at the State Capitol. Authorities are still searching for the suspect responsible for the fatal shooting of Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as the wounding of Senator John Hoffman and his wife. In spite of safety warnings, an estimated 25,000 people gathered at the Capitol for the No Kings protest, making a powerful statement about democracy and public safety. The coalition behind the protest cited a much larger turnout, emphasizing just how strongly Minnesotans feel about having their voices heard, even in the shadow of recent violence. Some events were canceled out of caution, but the spirit of civic engagement was unmistakable.
Turning to local stories that bring our neighborhoods together—Twin Cities Reptiles, a small business tucked off University Avenue in Saint Paul, celebrated nearly fifty years of serving reptile enthusiasts across generations. From skinks to boa constrictors, the shop has become a fixture, not just for pet owners but as a gathering spot where people share stories and advice. Owner Mike Fries says he’s seen the children of his earliest customers return as parents themselves, and for many, a first visit to the shop is a rite of passage.
If you’ve stepped outside lately, you’ve likely noticed the suddenly summer-like weather conditions. After last month’s rare June snow, the heat and humidity have returned in full force, pushing the mercury into the mid-80s this week. Severe thunderstorm warnings continue across central and southern Minnesota, so if you have evening plans, keep an eye on the skies. The National Weather Service reminds us that June is Minnesota’s wettest month, but those scattered storms are making way for a sunny weekend.
Looking ahead, Twin Cities Pride festivities are ramping up, with the parade and festival at Loring Park this weekend set to draw thousands in support of LGBTQ+ Minnesotans. Art lovers can also catch the Northern Spark festival on Saturday night, where local artists will illuminate the riverfront with installations and performances well into the night. And for the sports fans, the Twins snapped their losing streak in thrilling fashion, while Elko Speedway welcomes teen racer Ty Fredrickson for his ARCA debut.
All of this reminds us that Minneapolis and Saint Paul are cities defined by both our strength in adversity and the everyday connections we make—whether at a rally, a local pet shop, or a neighborhood celebration. We carry the weight of recent events while supporting our neighbors, finding hope and even joy in shared traditions.
This has been Morgan Riley, your neighbor in the news. Make sure you subscribe so you never miss a Minneapolis-Saint Paul news update. For more information, send me an email at morgan@inceptionpoint.ai or check out our website at Quiet Please dot AI.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
