Anika Besst
@anikabesst.bsky.social
St. Paul | Digital Producer at MPR News | Innovative storytelling
Reposted by Anika Besst
Minneapolis musician Josh Lavonn’s “Woman” is a retro-soul record built on devotion, vulnerability and long-term partnership.
“You don't need to fix one another or have all the answers, but just being there for one another,” Lavonn said about the inspiration for his work.
“You don't need to fix one another or have all the answers, but just being there for one another,” Lavonn said about the inspiration for his work.
4 facts about 'I Feel Down Today,' the new single from Ponderosa
Minneapolis musician Josh Lavonn says his latest album came from one place: love. The Ponderosa frontman credits his wife and the relationships around him as the spark behind “Woman,” a retro-soul rec...
www.mprnews.org
December 11, 2025 at 1:29 PM
Minneapolis musician Josh Lavonn’s “Woman” is a retro-soul record built on devotion, vulnerability and long-term partnership.
“You don't need to fix one another or have all the answers, but just being there for one another,” Lavonn said about the inspiration for his work.
“You don't need to fix one another or have all the answers, but just being there for one another,” Lavonn said about the inspiration for his work.
Got to chat with Ryan Kemp of Chutes about one of his latest singles "Lawn." The inspiration for the song about nostalgia came out of the downtime of a season that looks much like the one Minnesota just entered. ❄️
A season of hibernation pushed Minneapolis musician Ryan Kemp back into the memories of his youth. What came to mind were times like attending the Anoka County Fair with his brother and hanging with his dog. He turned these memories into a new album.
Chutes' dreamy new single finds meaning in childhood memories and the ache of getting older
A season of hibernation pushed Minneapolis musician Ryan Kemp back into the memories of his youth. He turned these memories into a new album.
www.mprnews.org
December 3, 2025 at 7:10 PM
Got to chat with Ryan Kemp of Chutes about one of his latest singles "Lawn." The inspiration for the song about nostalgia came out of the downtime of a season that looks much like the one Minnesota just entered. ❄️
The tournament's first round starts Thursday. The University of St. Thomas faces Iowa State Friday and the University of Minnesota will also be playing in the tournament, facing off against Fairfield.
The University of St. Thomas women's volleyball team will be the first sport at the university to make an NCAA playoff appearance since moving from Division III to Division I a few years ago.
St. Thomas Volleyball heads to NCAA tournament for first time; U of M also plays later this week
The University of St. Thomas women's volleyball team will face Iowa State in the first round of the NCAA tournament later this week. The University of Minnesota will face off against Fairfield on Frid...
www.mprnews.org
December 1, 2025 at 5:54 PM
The tournament's first round starts Thursday. The University of St. Thomas faces Iowa State Friday and the University of Minnesota will also be playing in the tournament, facing off against Fairfield.
Missing Lynx basketball? Here’s a draft pick update to fill the Lynx-o-meter. 🏀
Dallas Wings win the WNBA draft lottery, the Minnesota Lynx will pick second
The Dallas Wings won the WNBA draft lottery for the second consecutive season on Sunday night. Minnesota, which had the best record in the league last year, will pick second.
www.mprnews.org
November 25, 2025 at 12:41 AM
Missing Lynx basketball? Here’s a draft pick update to fill the Lynx-o-meter. 🏀
Chatted new music with Minnesota band Sleeping Jesus. Hear the story behind their latest release 🎶
The new song “Caroline” by Sleeping Jesus evokes the feeling of real heartbreak but it’s built from imagination, not experience. Lead singer Nick Elstad says after decades of making music, the process still astonishes him.
Sleeping Jesus turns imagined heartbreak into song
Behind Sleeping Jesus’ new track “Caroline” is a surprising twist: the heartbreak is imagined, but the emotion is real.
www.mprnews.org
November 20, 2025 at 2:46 PM
Chatted new music with Minnesota band Sleeping Jesus. Hear the story behind their latest release 🎶
Reposted by Anika Besst
Research by the University of Minnesota's Mapping Prejudice Project has uncovered hundreds of racist property deeds in Sherburne County. Nearly all the properties were clustered around lakes, and 90 percent were added after 1948. Racial covenants became illegal in Minnesota in 1953.
U of M’s Mapping Prejudice Project reveals racist deeds around Sherburne County lakes
Researchers found 356 properties with racial covenants in Sherburne County, nearly all clustered around lakes. Most were added after 1948, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled such restrictions were unen...
www.mprnews.org
November 20, 2025 at 12:21 AM
Research by the University of Minnesota's Mapping Prejudice Project has uncovered hundreds of racist property deeds in Sherburne County. Nearly all the properties were clustered around lakes, and 90 percent were added after 1948. Racial covenants became illegal in Minnesota in 1953.
Reposted by Anika Besst
Transgender Day of Remembrance is Thursday. Queer community members say the remembrance events carry a different weight this year as changes are introduced in other states — and on the federal level — designed to attack transgender rights.
Events planned in Minnesota to mark Transgender Day of Remembrance
Observances are planned in Minnesota on Thursday for the annual Transgender Day of Remembrance. It’s an annual event to honor the memory of lives lost to anti-transgender violence.
www.mprnews.org
November 20, 2025 at 2:14 PM
Transgender Day of Remembrance is Thursday. Queer community members say the remembrance events carry a different weight this year as changes are introduced in other states — and on the federal level — designed to attack transgender rights.
Reposted by Anika Besst
Hennepin Healthcare piloted a program to add qibla stickers to its ER in 2021. It is now expanding the program to its in-patient and acute psychiatric services department.
Hennepin Healthcare adds more prayer stickers for Muslim patients
Hennepin Healthcare piloted a program to add qibla stickers, which help orient Muslim patients for prayer, to its ER in 2021. It is now expanding the program to its in-patient and acute psychiatric se...
sahanjournal.com
November 18, 2025 at 4:05 PM
Hennepin Healthcare piloted a program to add qibla stickers to its ER in 2021. It is now expanding the program to its in-patient and acute psychiatric services department.
Reposted by Anika Besst
Northern lights lovers didn’t have to go far to see them ripple across the sky Tuesday evening. A show that included vivid red auroras visible to the eye, not just the camera.
We want to see your aurora photos. Message them to us or email them to [email protected].
We want to see your aurora photos. Message them to us or email them to [email protected].
November 12, 2025 at 12:36 PM
Northern lights lovers didn’t have to go far to see them ripple across the sky Tuesday evening. A show that included vivid red auroras visible to the eye, not just the camera.
We want to see your aurora photos. Message them to us or email them to [email protected].
We want to see your aurora photos. Message them to us or email them to [email protected].
Had the chance to talk with Winona-based band Afflatus about the inspiration behind their new album ”Painted Turtle.” Check it out here 🦢
How a band captured Winona’s natural beauty
What began as a musician falling in love with Winona’s bluffs has become an album that captures the region’s voice itself — a melodic love story to a place.
www.mprnews.org
November 12, 2025 at 6:22 PM
Had the chance to talk with Winona-based band Afflatus about the inspiration behind their new album ”Painted Turtle.” Check it out here 🦢
Reposted by Anika Besst
A dragonfly! In November?! Yup, it’s called the Autumn Meadowhawk for good reason
#invertebrates 🌿
#invertebrates 🌿
November 12, 2025 at 5:42 PM
A dragonfly! In November?! Yup, it’s called the Autumn Meadowhawk for good reason
#invertebrates 🌿
#invertebrates 🌿
Tomorrow is Election Day! Check out the MPR News Voter Guide for information about what you'll see on your ballot.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4, and while this isn’t a presidential or midterm election year, it’s still a big deal for local communities across Minnesota.
To make sure you’re ready, MPR News has a free, personalized tool to help you learn who and what is on your ballot: Build Your Ballot.
To make sure you’re ready, MPR News has a free, personalized tool to help you learn who and what is on your ballot: Build Your Ballot.
Minnesota voter guide: Use 'Build Your Ballot' to prepare for the Nov. 4 local elections
Minnesota voters can get ready for Tuesday’s local elections with MPR News’ free “Build Your Ballot” tool. Learn who’s on your ballot, where candidates stand and explore issue-based candidate quizzes ...
www.mprnews.org
November 3, 2025 at 2:04 PM
Tomorrow is Election Day! Check out the MPR News Voter Guide for information about what you'll see on your ballot.
Reposted by Anika Besst
Hiahli’s latest single, born from one broke week and a van jam session, turns struggle into a celebration.
From a rough week to a good party: Hiahli turns hard times into joy
Hiahli’s latest single, born from one broke week and a van jam session, turns struggle into a celebration.
www.mprnews.org
October 20, 2025 at 7:58 PM
Hiahli’s latest single, born from one broke week and a van jam session, turns struggle into a celebration.
Reposted by Anika Besst
Fans across the WNBA have shown an outpouring of support on social media for players and coaches since recent press conferences have emphasized disparities in the league. And in Minnesota, Lynx Forward Napheesa Collier and head coach Cheryl Reeve have reignited calls for change.
Calls for changes in the WNBA follow a history of advocacy in women's sports
Fans across the league have watched the press conferences from players and coaches, and there has been an outpouring of support on social media. Their concerns echo long-held qualms players and coache...
www.mprnews.org
October 9, 2025 at 2:33 PM
Fans across the WNBA have shown an outpouring of support on social media for players and coaches since recent press conferences have emphasized disparities in the league. And in Minnesota, Lynx Forward Napheesa Collier and head coach Cheryl Reeve have reignited calls for change.
Reposted by Anika Besst
There’s a new polar bear at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. The zoo announced Friday that Astra, the 4-year-old female polar bear from Washington state, arrived at the zoo Thursday evening.
Polar bear arrives at Como Park Zoo in St. Paul
The arrival of the 700-pound, 4-year-old female polar bear is part of a plan to support the threatened species.
www.mprnews.org
October 10, 2025 at 8:20 PM
There’s a new polar bear at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. The zoo announced Friday that Astra, the 4-year-old female polar bear from Washington state, arrived at the zoo Thursday evening.
Reposted by Anika Besst
Two thousand people are expected to turn out next month when Split Rock Lighthouse and the Minnesota Historical Society host a memorial to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald on Nov. 10.
Huge crowd expected for 50th anniversary memorial of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald
Two thousand people are expected at the 50th anniversary commemoration of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald at Split Rock Lighthouse on the North Shore of Lake Superior on Nov. 10.
www.mprnews.org
October 12, 2025 at 4:17 PM
Two thousand people are expected to turn out next month when Split Rock Lighthouse and the Minnesota Historical Society host a memorial to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald on Nov. 10.
Reposted by Anika Besst
The exhibition features artists — all based in Minnesota — who offer perspectives on gender, sexuality and queerness, drawn from their experiences as trans and queer people or as caregivers within those communities.
Lowertown St. Paul gallery spotlights Minnesota artists exploring gender and identity
A new Lowertown St. Paul exhibit brings together artists from across Minnesota whose work examines gender, queerness and the fight for justice — inspired by one family’s personal story.
www.mprnews.org
October 14, 2025 at 12:18 AM
The exhibition features artists — all based in Minnesota — who offer perspectives on gender, sexuality and queerness, drawn from their experiences as trans and queer people or as caregivers within those communities.
The Voter Guide is live! Check it out. And remember, Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4 (with early voting happening now).
Election Day is quickly approaching. With municipal races happening across Minnesota, MPR News has a voter guide to help with your candidate research.
Get a customized look at what is on your ballot for the Nov. 4 general election and learn more about the candidates seeking your vote here:
Get a customized look at what is on your ballot for the Nov. 4 general election and learn more about the candidates seeking your vote here:
Build Your Ballot 2025: What will you be voting on?
MPR News surveyed candidates in local and state races to hear about their background and interest in the office they are running for. Voters in Minnesota can use our Build Your Ballot tool to get info...
www.mprnews.org
October 17, 2025 at 12:53 PM
The Voter Guide is live! Check it out. And remember, Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4 (with early voting happening now).
Reposted by Anika Besst
There’s four games remaining in the league’s regular season, and while the Lynx were the first team to clinch a playoff spot, the team remains committed to closing the season off strong. Monday night, the Lynx rallied against the Dallas Wings for a 96-71 win beating Minnesota-native Paige Bueckers.
Minnesota Lynx top Dallas Wings 96-71, begin prep for postseason run with Phee's return
There’s four games remaining in the league’s regular season, and while the Lynx were the first team to clinch a playoff spot, the team remains committed to closing the season off strong. Monday night,...
www.mprnews.org
September 2, 2025 at 2:51 PM
There’s four games remaining in the league’s regular season, and while the Lynx were the first team to clinch a playoff spot, the team remains committed to closing the season off strong. Monday night, the Lynx rallied against the Dallas Wings for a 96-71 win beating Minnesota-native Paige Bueckers.
Reposted by Anika Besst
It's called fashion.
I *might* be a @mprnews.org (and The Current and MPR Classical) fan...
MPR mosquito hat, MPR tote bag, and a MPR nature print shirt. Even the MPR booth staff commented on my swag.
The MPR News fan is sadly at home.
MPR mosquito hat, MPR tote bag, and a MPR nature print shirt. Even the MPR booth staff commented on my swag.
The MPR News fan is sadly at home.
August 21, 2025 at 8:31 PM
It's called fashion.
Reposted by Anika Besst
Twin Cities musicians Jackie Rae Daniels and Nate Baker’s new EP “Amerikinda Minnesorta Folk” showcases some of their favorite numbers and the depth in their rich sound that enhances the duo’s acoustic storytelling.
Settled sounds from old guitars: How Daniels & Baker found joy in the familiar
Twin Cities musicians Jackie Rae Daniels and Nate Baker’s new EP “Amerikinda Minnesorta Folk” showcases some of their favorite numbers and the depth in their rich sound that enhances the duo’s acousti...
www.mprnews.org
August 18, 2025 at 7:05 PM
Twin Cities musicians Jackie Rae Daniels and Nate Baker’s new EP “Amerikinda Minnesorta Folk” showcases some of their favorite numbers and the depth in their rich sound that enhances the duo’s acoustic storytelling.
Reposted by Anika Besst
Nursing homes are designed to care for patients with physical infirmities. But nationwide, 1 in 5 residents has been diagnosed with a serious mental illness — conditions few of the facilities are equipped to handle.
By @egawthrop.bsky.social: www.apmreports.org/story/2025/0...
By @egawthrop.bsky.social: www.apmreports.org/story/2025/0...
‘We did not want to take this guy’: Abuse rates higher at nursing homes with more mental illness
Nursing homes are designed to care for patients with physical infirmities. But nationwide, 1 in 5 residents has been diagnosed with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia or psychosis — condi...
www.apmreports.org
August 7, 2025 at 11:20 AM
Nursing homes are designed to care for patients with physical infirmities. But nationwide, 1 in 5 residents has been diagnosed with a serious mental illness — conditions few of the facilities are equipped to handle.
By @egawthrop.bsky.social: www.apmreports.org/story/2025/0...
By @egawthrop.bsky.social: www.apmreports.org/story/2025/0...
Reposted by Anika Besst
The Minneapolis police officer who fatally shot Amir Locke — and, until recently, led MPD’s use-of-force training — is not the only trainer whose record has raised concerns over the department’s commitment to changing its culture.
Four Minneapolis officers were accused of excessive force — and now train other police
The Minneapolis police officer who fatally shot Amir Locke and until recently led MPD’s use-of-force training is not the only trainer whose record has raised concerns over the department’s commitment ...
www.mprnews.org
August 7, 2025 at 11:29 AM
The Minneapolis police officer who fatally shot Amir Locke — and, until recently, led MPD’s use-of-force training — is not the only trainer whose record has raised concerns over the department’s commitment to changing its culture.
Reposted by Anika Besst
MPR News’ parent company to lay off 5–8% of staff amid $6M budget gap tied to state and federal funding cuts.
MPR’s parent company announces layoffs due to state and federal funding cuts
American Public Media Group leadership announced Thursday that it will be laying off employees and making other cost reductions after state and federal funding cuts led to a $6 million budget gap.
www.mprnews.org
July 24, 2025 at 5:22 PM
MPR News’ parent company to lay off 5–8% of staff amid $6M budget gap tied to state and federal funding cuts.
Reposted by Anika Besst
The Senate voted to approve a $9 billion rescission package aimed at clawing back money already allocated for public radio and television. In Minnesota, that funding totals $17,228,752 across 16 organizations.
Read the full story here: www.mprnews.org/story/2025/0...
Read the full story here: www.mprnews.org/story/2025/0...
July 17, 2025 at 3:24 PM
The Senate voted to approve a $9 billion rescission package aimed at clawing back money already allocated for public radio and television. In Minnesota, that funding totals $17,228,752 across 16 organizations.
Read the full story here: www.mprnews.org/story/2025/0...
Read the full story here: www.mprnews.org/story/2025/0...