Here are a few interesting stories from places other than Arizona.

Minnesota Governor Pledges to Veto a $400 Million Increase in School Funds. The problem, according to Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton, is that a $400 million increase in school funding isn't enough. He's demanding that the Republicans add another $125 million to the total.

Newark, NJ, Mayor Joins Mob, Blocks Major Thoroughfare. It wasn't actually a mob Newark Mayor Ras Baraka joined. He came together with hundreds of teachers, parents and students who were protesting the control of Newark schools by the "education reform"/privatization leadership in the state capitol.

Bank Robbers Who Stole Billions From Citizens and Communities Go Free. These aren't people who rob banks. They're bankers who rob people. "Five big banks have agreed to pay about $5.6 billion and plead guilty to multiple crimes related to manipulating foreign currencies and interest rates, federal and state authorities announced on Wednesday." No one, so far as I know, is going to jail.

Los Angeles Takes Money From Businesses, Gives It to Employees. The L.A. city council voted 14-1 to phase in a $15-per-hour minimum wage by 2020. L.A. joined Seattle, San Francisco, Oakland and other cities by ratifying the raise.

First Lady Kicks Butt, Thinks She's a Good Role Model for Children. Actually, it was a heavy bag Michelle Obama kicked, and punched (rather convincingly, I might add). It was part of her “#GimmeFive” campaign on healthy living, showing kids that exercise can be both fun and good for you.