Here is the latest Minnesota news from The Associated Press

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) The fraud trial of Minnesota businessman Tom Petters is winding down. Closing arguments are expected today in St. Paul. Petters says he didn't know his close associates were committing fraud at Petters Company. The government says the Ponzi scheme cost investors more than $3 billion when it collapsed last year.



MINNEAPOLIS (AP) An Augsburg College student has contracted bacterial meningitis. Those close to her have been advised to take antibiotics. The freshman student is hospitalized at North Memorial Medical Center. Bacterial meningitis is spread by sharing food, drinks, a toothbrush or kissing.



MINNEAPOLIS (AP) The University of Minnesota continues to lag behind its Big Ten counterparts in overall graduation but has shown improvement in recent years. The Star Tribune reports the Gophers were last in the Big Ten in GSR in overall graduation of student-athletes and in Football graduation, and tied with Michigan for last in men's Basketball from 1999 to 2002.

(Information from: Star Tribune, http://www.startribune.com)

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) Businesses and government leaders and others are getting together today in Minneapolis to prepare for a crisis.

It's part of a national initiative designed to develop leadership skills during public emergencies. Minneapolis Emergency Preparedness Director Rocco Forte says the collapse of the Interstate 35W bridge in 2007 shows a well-organized emergency response can save lives.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-20-09 0738CST | save this article / add to your favorites list