Downtown Minneapolis buzzing from big events, returning workers
Downtown Minneapolis is buzzing this week, with the Big Ten Women's tournament in town and some workers back at the office.
Jason Rantala joined WCCO as a reporter in June 2023. He's a Minnesota native and is thrilled to be telling the stories of those in his hometown.
Jason comes to WCCO from KARE 11, where he worked as a photographer and often wrote, shot, and edited his own stories. He grew up in Eden Prairie, graduated from the University of Minnesota, and has worked as a reporter in Jacksonville, Florida; Des Moines, Iowa; and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
When he's off the clock, Jason enjoys exploring the Twin Cities, heading to local breweries, live music, and running around the Chain of Lakes.
Downtown Minneapolis is buzzing this week, with the Big Ten Women's tournament in town and some workers back at the office.
At J&D Dental in the heart of Downtown Minneapolis, 4-year-old Ollie the labradoodle is reporting for duty. His exact position within the office: Usually right on top of patients.
Chicago police said a gunman opened fire at a northside park one week ago Sunday. Four people were hit. Keyo'nce Gladney, a 19-year-old from Chaska, died from her injuries.
Metro Transit says they saw a growth in ridership throughout 2023, but they need help to keep that trend going.
"A Bar of Their Own" made it's debut on Friday morning becoming one of the first all-women's sports bars in the state.
"It's kind of a way to carve out space, specifically for black performers and audience members, to see themselves represented on stage," said Jada Pulley.
A convoy started on social media has exceed expectations as hundreds gather from all over to honor the fallen first responders.
As war rages on in Ukraine, the past two years have seen the Ukrainian American Community Center in northeast Minneapolis transform into a refugee center, helping people affected by the war.
A fire badly damaged Magnolia's restaurant earlier this week. Since then, they've received an overwhelming response.
Hundreds of artists, who adorn Minneapolis outdoor stages year after year for Music in the Parks, are unpaid performers.
Burnsville city officials identified the victims as officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge and firefighter/paramedic Adam Finseth.
A community activist receives honors for their advocacy work.
What began as a sixth grade science project, turned into a remarkable creation that'll no doubt give relief to residents living in snowy climates everywhere.
Ninety-two percent of St. Paul educators voted yes Thursday afternoon to authorize a strike.
For nearly half a century, Jakeeno's Pizza and Pasta has been a south Minneapolis mainstay.