Quick Country 96.5

Minnesota is home to more than 10,000 lakes, but one of the state’s most incredible swimming spots isn’t actually a lake at all.

This hidden gem has been highlighted nationally for its towering cliffs, crystal-clear water and incredible swimming.

Would you take the plunge?

Minnesota braces for a nine-day heat wave, with temps soaring into the 90s. Prepare by stocking up on water, checking HVAC systems, and finding local cooling spots like libraries and malls.

A Dodge Center man previously convicted of physically abusing children has now been sentenced to 30 years in prison for child sexual assault.

Court records say William Wyttenback was convicted earlier this year of repeatedly sexually assaulting a juvenile victim over a period of more than two years.

A Texas man has been charged for an injury crash at a Rochester intersection.

It happened on Tuesday night. Multiple witnesses reported seeing a pickup run a red light and T-bone the driver's side of the car.

Police later located the vehicle and encountered its suspected impaired driver.

See the charges he's facing below.

🚫🗑️Did you know there’s actually a big list of things that are straight-up illegal to toss in the trash in Minnesota? Chances are you’ve probably done at least one of them without realizing it.

The full list is in the comments.

A young woman and elderly man were hurt in a collision in Winona on Wednesday.

The State Patrol says the SUVs collided at an intersection along Hwy. 61.

They were traveling in opposite directions.

Get the crash report below.

A record 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel during the July 4 holiday period, and Minnesota drivers could face some serious traffic headaches.

Here's when the highways are expected to be the busiest this year!

What are YOU doing for the 4th this year?

What's your favorite winery in the area?
(Tell us...we might just stop by this weekend!)

You don't have to travel all the way to Napa Valley to enjoy amazing wine and beautiful vineyard views. These wineries are true hidden gems...and are perfect spots for a fun road trip.

Hey, Flapdoodles fans...which location is your favorite in Rochester?

The truck is showing up at this upcoming 5k and 1 mile event in Rochester. If you register for the Lace Up For Hope event, you'll get a free scoop, a drink at Little Thistle, AND a gift card to TerraLoco.

Everything you need to know is below.

The University of Minnesota is facing a new federal lawsuit over its policies related to gender identity, pronouns, and student speech.

The lawsuit argues that university policies violate students' First Amendment rights by potentially disciplining certain speech about gender and requiring the use of preferred pronouns.

University officials have not yet commented on the lawsuit.

Full story in the comments breaks down what the lawsuit alleges, what students involved are saying, and what the plaintiffs are asking the court to do.