As the Vikings prepared to finalize their roster, they flipped young cornerback Mekhi Blackmon to the Indianapolis Colts on Monday night in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Originally a third-round pick out of USC in 2023, Blackmon looked like a promising prospect as a rookie. He then suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament last year during training camp and hasn’t looked the same since.

Though he was able to return to the Vikings ahead of training camp this summer, Blackmon struggled to carve out a niche for himself. He was immediately beat out by cornerback Jeff Okudah in a position battle and slowly but surely found himself falling down the depth chart.

The fresh start might be good for Blackmon.

Meanwhile, the Vikings continue to accumulate a war chest of picks in the middle rounds, which could help them in their reported pursuit of veteran receiver Adam Thielen. It also wouldn’t be surprising to see the Vikings pursue a veteran cornerback at some point soon after parting ways with Blackmon.

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By CHRIS RUGABER and WILL WEISSERT, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump fired Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook late Monday, a surprise move constituting a sharp escalation in his battle to exert greater control over what has long been considered an institution independent from day-to-day politics.

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Trump said in a letter posted on his Truth Social platform that he is removing Cook because of allegations that she committed mortgage fraud. Bill Pulte, a Trump appointee to the agency that regulates mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, made the accusations last week.

Pulte alleged that Cook had claimed two primary residences — in Ann Arbor, Michigan and Atlanta — in 2021 to get better mortgage terms. Mortgage rates are often higher on second homes or those purchased to rent.

The announcement came days after Cook said she wouldn’t leave the seven-member Fed board despite Trump previously calling for her to resign. Senate Democrats had expressed support for Cook.

“The Federal Reserve has tremendous responsibility for setting interest rates and regulating reserve member banks. The American people must have the full confidence in the honesty of the members entrusted with setting policy and overseeing the Federal Reserve,” Trump wrote in a letter addressed to Cook, a copy of which he posted online. “In light of your deceitful and potentially criminal conduct in a financial matter, they cannot and I do not have such confidence in your integrity.”

Trump argued that firing Cook was constitutional, even if doing so will raise questions about control of the Fed as an independent entity.

“The executive power of the United States is vested to me as President and, as President, I have a solemn duty that the laws of the United States are faithfully enacted,” the president wrote in the letter to Cook. “I have determined that faithfully enacting the law requires your immediate removal from office.”

The firing is likely to touch off a legal battle and Cook could be allowed to remain in her seat while the case plays out. Cook would have to fight the legal battle herself, as the injured party, rather than the Fed.

FILE – Federal Reserve Board of Governors member Lisa Cook, right, talks with Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell before an open meeting of the Board of Governors at the Federal Reserve, June 25, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File)

It is the latest effort by the administration to take control over one of the few remaining independent agencies in Washington. Trump has repeatedly attacked the Fed’s chair, Jerome Powell, for not cutting its short-term interest rate, and even threatened to fire him.

Forcing Cook off the Fed’s governing board would provide Trump an opportunity to appoint a loyalist. Trump has said he would only appoint officials who would support cutting rates.

Powell signaled last week that the Fed may cut rates soon even as inflation risks remain moderate. Meanwhile, Trump will be able to replace Powell in May 2026, when Powell’s term expires. However, 12 members of the Fed’s interest-rate setting committee have a vote on whether to raise or lower interest rates, so even replacing the chair might not guarantee that Fed policy will shift the way Trump wants.

It’s back-to-school season, but not everyone has the time and budget for new backpacks or a stop at the barber shop. One solution: Host an event that brings the two together, make it free and make it fun.

The National Black Police Association of Minnesota, Black Firefighters United and others partnered with The Sanneh Foundation, Greater Twin Cities United Way to host the 10th annual Backpacks and Barbers event Monday at the the Conway Recreation Center in St. Paul, providing children with free haircuts, backpacks, school supplies, food and more.

Cousins Lanu and Tami show off the new backpacks they received Monday. (Talia McWright / Pioneer Press)

“It helps them to be able to take some of that burden off of their families,” Sanneh Foundation marketing coordinator Sophia Hayden said. “And everybody needs a fresh haircut. You look good, you feel good. So we want to get those kids ready to have their first day of school.”

Another hope for the event is that while officers engage with community and show them they care, some of the kids, especially those from underrepresented communities, will be inspired to see law enforcement as a career path in the future.

“Representation is very important for the Black Police Association, so kids in the community can look up and say, ‘Hey, these people can do it. You know what, I can do it too,’ because we’re actually really underrepresented in Minnesota,” Association President and St. Paul Officer Brad Chin said.

According to the association, 273 out of the total 10,505 police officers in Minnesota are Black. Chin said the association wants to change this to better serve their communities.

First time attendee and mother of six Dominiques Perkins brought her two boys, fifth-grader Damari and third-grader Dontrez, out on Tuesday. The event was an opportunity to save some money and be surrounded by community members, she said, looking at the rows of young kids getting their hair cut by professional local barbers.

Another first timer, Akona Joaj, a special education educator, brought two young family members who are refugees from South Sudan and had never before had their hair cut, she said. The two boys came to Minnesota early this year and were all smiles as they sat across from each other.

“It brings the community together and is so helpful for kids,” Joaj said. “Even if you can’t afford it, you still deserve to feel good and look good for school.”

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I swear every year I spend a little more time at the Minnesota State Fair.

It’s a fun addiction! This year, besides the first two days, when we review all the new food and beverages, I went to the Atmosphere concert on Saturday and sneaked back for a quick dinner and Arrested Development at the Bandshell.

This year, I decided to focus on Fair classics that I’ve never tasted and under-the-radar foods suggested by readers — with the exception of the pickle pizza from Rick’s Pizza, because the ever-popular stand has added another location this year, and there was virtually no line!

And bonus, Jared Kaufman tried an “unofficial” new food that he said was worth noting.

Jalapeno Cheese on a Stick at Fresh Lemonade – Cheese on a Stick, $8

West side of Nelson St. between Dan Patch and Carnes avenues

If you can believe it, I had never tried this State Fair staple before this week. I enjoyed the slightly sweet breading and oozy cheese, but wanted more spice. Although that wish is what fellow reporter Jared Kaufman calls a “classic Jess” wish. I do like it spicy! 8/10, would definitely eat it again.

Onion Rings at Danielson & Daughters, $9

Onion Rings at Danielson & Daughters at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair. (Jess Fleming / Pioneer Press)

Between Underwood and Cooper streets, outside south side of the Food Building

These lightly breaded rings don’t look like much — in fact, before I dug in, I predicted they’d be overly greasy. But I was totally wrong. Crisp, oniony deliciousness, and bonus: There’s a coupon for $3 off in this year’s Blue Ribbon Book! 8/10, would eat again, though the portion is pretty small for the price without the coupon.

Wild Rice Burger at Wild Rice Specialties, $10

The Wild Rice Burger at Wild Rice Specialties at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair. (Jess Fleming / Pioneer Press)

In the Food Building, northeast section

I’ve been hearing about this burger for years and finally got around to trying it. Though the bun looks too big and dry, I’m here to tell you that this is one juicy, flavorful burger. (It’s not vegetarian; it’s beef and wild rice.) The rice gives it a slightly nutty flavor and makes it a bit lighter than a regular burger. 7/10, will eat again.

Messy Giuseppe at Mancini’s al Fresco, $10

The Messy Giuseppe at Mancini’s al Fresco at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair. (Jess Fleming / Pioneer Press)

North side of Carnes Avenue between Nelson and Underwood streets

A reader suggested I try this Italian version of a sloppy joe, and what a suggestion! I don’t know that my husband will go to the Fair without ordering one again. The focaccia bun is slathered with garlic butter and toasted, and the messy filling is basically meat and a bright, tasty marinara. 9/10, will probably eat every year from now on.

Chocolate-Covered Nut Roll on a Stick at Fresh Made Nut Rolls, $9

A Chocolate-Covered Nut Roll at Fresh Made Nut Rolls at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair. (Jess Fleming / Pioneer Press)

Northeast corner of Dan Patch Avenue Underwood Street

Although this impossible-to-photograph version of the ever-popular Salted Nut Roll isn’t much to look at, the peanuts, nougat, caramel and dark chocolate are a perfect combo. My only complaint is that $9 is pretty steep for a smallish candy bar. 7/10, would eat if someone else paid for it.

Pork Chop on a Stick at Peterson’s Pork Chops, $13

The Pork Chop on a Stick at Peterson’s Pork Chops at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair. (Jess Fleming / Pioneer Press)

South side of Judson Avenue between Nelson and Underwood streets

I have spent 14 years walking past this stand, which is perched just beyond the media parking lot, without ordering a pork chop. That ended this week, and I have few regrets. Salty, meaty, grill-kissed goodness, though there was a little too much char on one half of it for me. Still, this thing is popular for a reason. 8/10, will eat again.

Grilled Peach with Honey-Herb Goat Cheese at The Produce Exchange, $8

The Grilled Peach with Herbed Goat Cheese and Honey at The Produce Exchange at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair. (Jess Fleming / Pioneer Press)

Northwest corner of Carnes Avenue and Underwood Street

I cannot believe it took me this long to try this simple, gorgeous dish of summer. A peach, grilled to perfection, paired with an herb-infused goat cheese and drizzled with honey. I love a good sweet/salty pairing, and in-season peaches are one of life’s greatest pleasures. 10/10, will probably have another one when I go back later this week.

Pickle Pizza at Rick’s Pizza, $9

Pickle Pizza at Rick’s Pizza at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair. (Jess Fleming / Pioneer Press)

Two locations: West side of Cosgrove Street between Wright and Dan Patch avenues and west side of Cooper Street between Murphy and Lee avenues

OK, I have had the pickle pizza before and I have loved it. But I haven’t returned for a few years, because it’s my fervent belief that no Fair food is worth a line longer than 20 minutes, and the lines had been ridiculously long. But this year, Rick’s wisely added a second location, and there was virtually no line on Sunday evening. So I couldn’t resist this floppy-crewy-crusted, extra cheesy, pickle-y deliciousness. If you, too, had avoided it because of the line, this is your year! 10/10, will eat every time there’s a short line.

Dan Patch Dip at Hamline Church Dining Hall, $11

Dan Patch Dip is held up in front of the Hamline Church Dining Hall on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds on Aug. 24, 2025. (Jared Kaufman / Pioneer Press)

North side of Dan Patch Ave. between Underwood & Cooper streets

This year’s new offering at the oldest Fairgrounds restaurant didn’t make the “Official New Foods” list, but we wanted to try it anyway. The creamy corn dip itself is quite flavorful, and the pineapple-and-onion slaw on top gives it a tangy, punchy freshness. This is a little pricey, but it’s a perfect reprieve from heavy fried fare.

— Jared Kaufman

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