Algae blooms in Minneapolis lakes could be toxic and residents are advised to avoid contact with affected waters for their safety and that of their pets.

The Blaine Festival committee took over the annual pork chop dinner's grilling duties from former Mayor Tom Ryan, continuing a 30-year community tradition of summer feasts and polka music.

Rocky's Pumpkin Patch is scheduled for Oct. 19 at Sand Creek Park, offering free activities for families and booth opportunities for youth-focused organizations, with a sign-up deadline of Oct. 12.

The Bloomington City Council has scheduled a public hearing to discuss the rezoning of Southgate Apartments, with opportunities for resident participation in person or electronically.

Bernard James Benavidez was sentenced to six months in prison for diverting sales to personal accounts and evading taxes of $147,006.96 from 2013 to 2017.

Saint Paul Police Department welcomed six new Police Reserves from the Reserve Academy, acknowledging their commitment to serving the community as volunteers.

St. Louis Park's pavement management project makes progress, with phase one near completion and work continuing on other phases, including roadwork, utility replacement, and landscaping.

The St. Paul BZA addressed multiple zoning variances, with approvals for an extended porch and a front-facing garage, plus a major sign size increase for a development.

Street upgrades in St. Louis Park for gas mains replacement will affect parking on Westwood Hills Road and Utah Avenue S from Sep 18 to 20; locals may contact CenterPoint Energy for info.

Mississippi Gateway Regional Park is undergoing a redesign including new trails, a Gateway Center, and various outdoor activity spaces. Construction has caused West River Road to close temporarily.

Ward 12 officials have set up Virtual Town Hall meetings to engage with local residents on community issues, with successful sessions already conducted and more planned for Longfellow and Nokomis East neighborhoods.

The Minnesota DHS introduced a template to ease planning for disability and aging services and emphasized workplace rights, including minimum wage. They also updated the CBSM, announced training webinars, and offered a course on CFSS MMIS.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is considering relocating the Bde Maka Ska boat launch and sailing center, seeking public feedback through an online survey and an upcoming open house.