>>Gubernatorial Candidate Demuth Announces Fraud Whistleblower Plan
(St. Paul, MN) – In the fight against fraud, Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Lisa Demuth unveiled a Whistleblower Protection Plan. She said during a news conference that the executive order would empower state employees to be able to report fraud directly to the Legislative Auditor or Inspector General. They could make those reports without asking for permission, without anyone editing what they say and with protection of their identity. Demuth’s plan would also establish a whistleblower coordinator in every agency. DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar announced her fraud plan in May. It also includes whistleblower protections by creating clear, assessable reporting pathways for fraud tips and protections for people who raise concerns about fraud.
>>Early Voting Underway in Minnesota
(St. Paul, MN) — Early voting is underway in Minnesota ahead of the November 3rd general election. Minnesotans can vote early in person or request an absentee ballot by mail. Today (Tues) , is the state’s recommended deadline to apply for a mailed absentee ballot, allowing time for processing and return. In-person early voting continues through November 2nd, the day before Election Day. Voters will decide several key races, including U.S. Senate, governor and seats in Congress, along with other state and local offices.
>>Sacred Heart Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Child Sexual Abuse
(Renville, MN) — A 63-year-old Sacred Heart man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for sexually abusing three children at a Renville daycare. Darrell Hanson entered an Alford plea to four counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, maintaining his innocence while acknowledging there was enough evidence to convict him at trial. The judge ordered the sentences to run consecutively. Six additional charges were dismissed as part of the plea agreement. Hanson received credit for 430 days already served in jail.
>>Man Killed After Being Struck by Combine in Scott County
(Sand Creek Township, MN) — A 42-year-old man was killed Sunday afternoon after being struck by a combine in Scott County’s Sand Creek Township. The Scott County Sheriff’s Office says first responders found the man seriously injured and attempted lifesaving measures, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
>>Duluth Chamber Launches Nationwide Search for New CEO
(Duluth, MN) — The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce is launching a nationwide search for its next president and CEO. The Chamber has hired Waverly Partners, a national executive search firm, to recruit candidates locally and across the country. Board Chair Tiffany Hughes says the goal is to find a leader who can build on the organization’s foundation and support the long-term vitality of the region. The Chamber has not announced a timeline for selecting a permanent leader.
>>Savage Designated a World War II Heritage City
(Undated) – U.S. Congresswoman Angie Craig announced that the National Park Service has officially designated Savage as a World War II Heritage City. This designation recognizes the city for its outstanding contributions during World War II and the community’s commitment to preserving its rich history. According to Craig’s office, from 1942-1944, Camp Savage was home to the secret Military Intelligence Service Language School and was later home to the Savage Shipyard that employed 3,500 employees.
>>Minnesota’s Millionaire Raffle is Back
(Roseville, MN) – The Minnesota Lottery announced the Minnesota Millionaire Raffle is back and tickets for the New Year’s game went on sale today. This year for the first time, the raffle will offer four $1 million dollar prizes which double the amount of millionaire winners from last year. The Lottery says this year’s game features more than $30,000 in total prizes. Each ticket costs $10 to play.
