Courts & Justice: Minnesota’s chief federal judge seat is set with Eric Tostrud named chief judge for the District of Minnesota, after Chief Judge John Schiltz’s term ends. Public Health: Mosquitoes in the Twin Cities tested positive for West Nile virus for the first time this summer, with experts warning more cases may show up statewide. State Politics: Gov. Tim Walz pardoned Tou Lue Vang, convicted of sexually assaulting a 10-year-old, drawing DHS backlash and DHS claims the pardon wipes the conviction from the record. Legal Fight Over Social Media: Minnesota’s mental-health warning label law is paused while Big Tech challenges it in court, even as the state prepares to enforce if the lawsuit is dismissed. Weather & Safety: Flash Flood Warnings hit parts of southeast Minnesota early Thursday morning after heavy rain, with officials urging drivers to turn around and not drown. Local Life: A Princess Kay of the Milky Way finalist from Redwood County, Elizabeth Coudron, is headed toward a butter-sculpture honor at the Minnesota State Fair. Health Care: Essentia Health-Duluth welcomed OB/GYN specialist Dr. Katie Casper. Roads: MnDOT is hosting a July 9 open house for updated Hwy. 210 layout concepts in Deerwood. Sports: Napheesa Collier returned to Lynx practice, moving closer to her 2026 debut after ankle surgery.