>>Benson Schools to Keep Braves Mascot and Logo
(Benson, MN) — A Minnesota lawmaker is applauding a decision that allows Benson Public Schools to keep its longtime mascot. This week, the Upper Sioux Board of Trustees gave unanimous consent for the district to continue using the “Braves” name and logo, a move now permitted under a revised state law passed earlier this year. Senator Torrey Westrom, a Republican from Alexandria, called the decision “a victory for local control,” saying it preserves community pride and spares the district from what he described as potentially costly changes. The updated law now allows schools to keep their mascots if they receive approval from the nearest tribal nation and their American Indian Parent Advisory Committee.
>>Minnesota Clergy Call on Governor Walz to Pass Assault Rifle Ban
(St. Paul, MN) — A delegation of about 70 clergy members hand-delivered a letter to Governor Tim Walz, urging him and state lawmakers to pass an assault rifle ban during a special legislative session. The letter, signed by more than 750 faith leaders from across denominations, calls for urgent action on gun reform. Reverend Ingrid Rasmussen of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church described the message as deeply heartfelt. “It was really filled with a sense of collective urgency and collective hope,” Rasmussen said. The clergy are currently holding a “7 Days of Prayer and Action” on the steps of the Capitol, gathering daily at noon to advocate for change.
>>Walz Opponent Says Special Session Needed
(St. Paul, MN) – One of Governor Tim Walz’s opponents in the 2026 election says Minnesota does need a special election. This comes one day after Walz told reporters that he won’t call a special session until Republicans will talk and vote on the gun issue. Republican candidate Kendall Qualls says, “Minnesota does need a special session, not for gun control, but to protect our schools and keep our kids safe.” Qualls adds that taking up issues of school safety, public safety, and mental health is not a waste of time. Those ideas align with the proposals Republican leaders have made to Governor Walz about calling a special session.
>>Deadline Upcoming for Military Service Members to Claim 2021 Tax Credits
(St. Paul, MN) — The Minnesota Department of Revenue is reminding military service members to claim a refundable tax credit before it expires. The 2021 Credit for Military Service in a Combat Zone runs out next Wednesday( October 15th). The credit is worth $120 for every month or partial month served in a combat zone. More than 2,700 service members qualified for the 2021 credit, but about 830 still haven’t claimed it. So far, service members have claimed more than $1.5 million in refunds, averaging about $825 each.
>>Duluth Police Warning of Banking Scam
(Duluth, MN) — Duluth Police are alerting the public to a financial scam that’s already cost residents nearly $48,000, but quick action helped recover the money. Scammers are impersonating Wells Fargo representatives, calling clients and urging them to withdraw cash and overnight it to Florida, claiming it’s part of a bank investigation. Three people were targeted recently. Fortunately, they and investigators were able to intercept the packages before they were shipped. Police stress: no legitimate bank will ever ask you to send cash or assist in an investigation over the phone. If you get a suspicious call, hang up—and contact your bank directly.
>>Leif Erickson Day
(Undated) — Minnesota marks Leif Erikson Day today, honoring the Norse explorer who may have reached North America centuries before Columbus. His legacy is powerful here, thanks to the state’s deep Scandinavian roots. In Minneapolis, the Leif Eriksson International Festival celebrates Nordic culture with music, art, and storytelling at Mindekirken, the Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church. In St. Paul, a bronze statue of Erikson stands near the Capitol, a gift from Norwegian-Americans in 1949. And in Duluth, Leif Erikson Park offers a lakeside tribute with a statue and rose garden. From monuments to music, Minnesota keeps Erikson’s story alive, reminding us of the bold journeys that helped shape our heritage.
>>Xcel Energy Launches AI Wildfire Detection in Minnesota
(Minneapolis, MN) — Xcel Energy has installed Minnesota’s first Artificial Intelligence-powered wildfire detection cameras in Mankato and Clear Lake, with 38 more planned near high-risk power lines. The cameras use Pano AI, high-definition video, and satellite data to detect smoke in real time and alert local fire departments, helping speed response and improve safety. So far this year, Minnesota has recorded more than 1,200 wildfires across nearly 49,000 acres. Xcel says the system complements its broader wildfire mitigation efforts, including modernized power lines, vegetation management, and community coordination.
>>Minneapolis Fire Chief Retiring
(Minneapolis) – Minneapolis Fire will be looking for a new leader. Fire Chief Bryan Tyner has announced he’s retiring at the end of the year. Tyner has been with the Minneapolis Fire Department for more than 30 years, including the last five years as chief. During his tenure, Tyner has guided the fire department through significant public safety challenges, including the civil unrest in 2020 and the COVID-19 pandemic. Tyner is credited with increasing the number of firefighters and increasing diversity within the department. The city will conduct a national search for a new chief.
