Diverse Radio for Minnesota’s Communities

It’s been over three years since a group of Ball Club youth came together with the support of their community, to build a new park for area kids to play in and for the community to enjoy.

They’ve worked alongside the Ball Club Local Indian Council… an area group called the Circle of Healing… and a playground project manager.

The park they envisioned, designed, and planned, was set for a grand opening early July but, like many projects during this time, it’s been delayed.

However, the effort to build the park – that centers culture and inclusion – is still going as strong as ever.

Conversations about changing policing and public safety continue around the state. Today reporter Melissa Townsend talks with one of the people who took public safety into their own hands during the protests and violence in Minneapolis after George Floyd was killed by police there.

The Minnesota Department of Health is encouraging Minnesotans with and without symptoms to get tested. Minnesota Native News team member Justus Sanchez tells you about his experience getting a test for COVID19.

Over the past three weeks, more businesses and community facilities have reopened and thousands of people have been gathering at protests and events.

State health officials say it’s too soon for the community Covid-19 testing sites to detect an increase in the number of cases because of these gatherings.

Phase Three of Minnesota’s stay-safe plan is underway, with more restaurants, gyms and retail stores open. Social distancing is still required and so are masks in many places. Testing is available, and recommended for anyone who was or is part of the mass protests or ongoing gatherings following the death of George Floyd. In the Twin Cities free testing is available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The state is working on expanding the availability of free tests, so that anyone who wants a test can get one – and get their results within 72 hours.