Banking & Cost of Living: U.S. Bank raised its prime lending rate to 7.00% effective Sept. 17, a fresh signal for Minnesota borrowers. Public Safety & Schools: Rochester Public Schools reassured families after a Hwy. 52 school bus fire—no students were onboard, and officials pointed to how state inspections flag issues and take buses out of service. Autonomous Vehicles & Jobs: Minneapolis is set for hearings on an ordinance requiring a licensed human behind the wheel in commercial robotaxis, aiming to protect drivers’ livelihoods. Health & Youth Readiness: Minnesota schools are now required to have cardiac arrest response plans, with training focused on using AEDs and responding fast. Immigration Enforcement & Rights: An ICE agent accused of lying about a Minneapolis shooting is booked into Hennepin County Jail, as courts continue to scrutinize threats tied to criticism. Culture & Community: The Chocolate Milk Club is working to reclaim breastfeeding as a cultural practice, spotlighting Black families and history through community events. Education Funding: Minnesotans will vote on an education funding amendment that would adjust distributions from the Permanent School Fund without raising taxes. Outdoor Access: Duluth and Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory opened a new universally accessible trail, expanding nature education for visitors of all abilities. Local Learning: New MCA reading participation/proficiency data highlights grade-level results at Creative Arts Secondary School. Sports & Identity: Brent Burns showed up to Avs camp without his iconic beard, a small but instantly recognizable pop-culture moment for hockey fans.