Zach White

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is calling for applications to its 134th annual Music in the Parks series, an event that's been a staple for the community since 1892. Get the details on how to apply and what's in store if you're selected to perform in this celebrated outdoor concert series.

Ejim finished with 20 points, five rebounds and two blocks in GU's loss to USF. Courtesy of @ZagWBB on X

On a brisk evening at the Riverdale Target, a scene of community engagement unfolded as local police officers traded their typical roles to become personal shoppers for a group of fifth graders. The'Shop with a Cop' event, which took place this past Monday night, featured 25 students from Mississippi Elementary and Sand Creek Elementary who were personally selected to participate in the annual holiday spree. "It's a great way for our officers to interact with the kids and get to know them a little bit more and kind of spread that holiday joy," officer Tommy Hall of the Coon Rapids Police Department told the city's official website.

The Dakota-Scott Workforce Development Board has officially announced its latest roster of award winners, recognizing the efforts of local businesses and individuals in enriching the workforce community. The event, detailed in an article published on December 20th by the Dakota County website, acknowledged various contributors for their dedication and innovative approaches to workforce development.

A tense situation unfolded in the 5700 block of 73rd Ave N, where police officers and a SWAT team responded to a report of a potentially armed person in crisis. The large law enforcement presence converged on the scene after the initial call came in about the incident.

The City of Burnsville has shown a stellar example of progress and community engagement this November, per their latest social media update. Focusing on environmental measures, youth job training, and communal activities, the city has reported significant achievements, including a dramatic reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, which have dropped 61% since 2005. This environmental stride was announced alongside a partnership between the Public Works team and a local high school job shadow program, an initiative designed to foster the next generation’s workforce.

As the longest night of the year nears, the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, beckons residents to a poignant gathering. The "Be the Light Winter Solstice Walk," a registered event set to mark the winter solstice, aims to bring the community together for a cause that casts a shadow deeper than the seasonal darkness. According to a social media post from the City of St. Louis Park, attendees are reminded to cancel their registration if they can't attend, freeing up space for others on the waitlist.

As the winter chill sets in, Coon Rapids offers a frosty treat for those eager to embrace the cold. According to City of Coon Rapids announcement, residents can now lace up their skates and glide into the season at the local outdoor ice rinks, with doors flung open as of Saturday, Dec. 21.

The warmth of human generosity finds its expression in the form of overcoats, shielding against Minnesota’s relentless winter chill. In a grand display of community solidarity, the annual Justin Morneau Winter Coat Drive culminated last Friday, outperforming its own benchmarks. According to a social media post from Maple Grove Police Department, the collective endeavor orchestrated by nine police departments amassed a heartening cache of 3,000 coats to buffer the needy against the harsh Midwestern winter.

The holidays bring with them a festive spirit, twinkling lights, and - for many - the fresh scent of a real Christmas tree gracing the living room. But the joy of these evergreen traditions comes with an environmental impact. According to a recent social media post from City of Chanhassen, Minnesota Government, an estimated 25-30 million real Christmas trees are sold in the U.S each year, and an astonishing 10 million of those end up in landfills post-holiday cheer.