Greater Minnesota

Appleton residents voice concerns about new ICE facility
State Rep. Paul Anderson co-hosted a town hall forum on the Appleton Detention Facility — formerly known as the Prairie Correctional Facility — which will begin housing people detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers later this year.
Google launches a charm offensive in 2 Minnesota towns as data center opposition grows
The Google meetings come as the company faces uncertainty with both projects. In Hermantown, where the project still needs city council approval, opposition has intensified after recordings leaked of senior officials mocking data center opponents. The Pine Island project is also on hold while a judge considers a lawsuit seeking a more thorough environmental review.
Leech Lake Tribal College celebrates new leadership before start of semester
An investiture ceremony was held Monday evening to celebrate Erin Stresow stepping into the position of president at Leech Lake Tribal College. Stresow brings leadership experience across higher education, nonprofits, corporate ventures and tribal nations.
A scaled-down plan to revive a historic lodge near the Boundary Waters faces renewed opposition 
The $40 million proposal to update and refurbish the Silver Rapids Lodge outside Ely promises to inject new life into the resort. But some neighbors believe it would transform the quiet character of the area.
New $1.8B Blatnik Bridge design unveiled; Duluth to Superior span opening set for October 2031 
The new bridge between Duluth and Superior, Wis. features a tied-arch design and a new walkway for pedestrians and bikers. It will take four to five years to build and officials plan to open the new bridge in October 2031.
Reeling from middle schooler suicides, Brainerd school district aims to prevent more deaths
The community has been calling for action to address student mental health and bullying after two middle schoolers died by suicide. But the rise in youth suicide extends beyond Brainerd, and some say it needs a broader response.
Crew member battling to contain northern Minnesota wildfires dies
A crew member working to contain the wildfires burning in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area has died of a medical emergency. It’s the first fatality in the monthlong firefighting effort.