>>Suspect Arrested in Meeker County Stabbing
(Grove City, MN) – The Meeker County Sheriff’s Office has a suspect in custody following a stabbing Sunday in Grove City. Officials say a 44-year-old female was stabbed in the chest. Family members in the residence rendered aid until EMS arrived. The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Officials arrested 23-year-old Mitchell Loken at the scene and said the stabbing was the result of a disagreement. Lokken is being held at the Meeker County Jail.
>>More Counties Infected with Emerald Ash Borer
(St. Paul, MN) – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has confirmed and is adding two more counties to the list for emerald ash borer (EAB) infestation. There are now 62 counties in the state with EAB with the addition of Lincoln and Pipestone. The insect larvae kill ash trees by tunneling under the bark feeding on the part of the tree that moves nutrients up and down the trunk. The MDA is now enacting an emergency quarantine in those two counties. The quarantine limits the movement of firewood and ash material out of the areas. A virtual meeting for residents in Lincoln and Pipestone counties is planned for September 30.
>>Gas Prices Keep Climbing in Minnesota
(St. Louis Park, MN) – Gas prices continue to climb throughout the state of Minnesota. AAA (Triple A) says the current average is $4.39 for a gallon of regular unleaded. That’s an increase of 16 cents a gallon since last week. Diesel prices now average $6.33 a gallon which is an increase of 25 cents since last week. AAA says crude oil remains high averaging $100 per barrel amid continued volatility in the Strait of Hormuz.
>>Discussion Held on Childcare Issues in Northern Minnesota
(Two Harbors, MN) – Minnesota state Senator Grant Hauschild (DFL-Hermantown) joined local childcare providers for a roundtable discussion on the challenges and opportunities in northern Minnesota on Sunday. Providers shared their concerns for families needing access to affordable, high-quality childcare while supporting the educators who make that care possible. Hauschild said, “The Northland faces unique challenges when it comes to accessing quality early childcare. Ou region is large and rural which contributes to a shortage of childcare workers.”
>>Superior National Forest Beginning Fall Prescribed Fire Operations
(Duluth, MN) – Superior National Forest plans on starting fall prescribed fire operations this week on the eastern side with Gunflint and Tofte Ranger Districts, pending all required approvals. The Forest estimates to continue east zone prescribed fire operations through December, as weather conditions allow for approximately 2,100 acres. Prescribed fire is active forest management that reduces overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure, and natural resources from wildfires. Prescribed fire on the western side of the Forest will begin when conditions are favorable. Staff says to watch for warning signs along roads near prescribed fire areas before and during burns. For safety when driving, slow down and turn on your headlights if you encounter smoke and watch for firefighters. Residents may experience smoke during and shortly after the prescribed fires.
>>Minnesota Wild Announce Home Opener Party
(St. Paul, MN) – The Minnesota Wild will be rolling out the green carpet for the new season. The Wild announced the team will host a Green Carpet Player Arrival and Pregame Party for the home opener on October 3rd. The party will include food, drinks, music, and live entertainment. Admission is free but requires a ticket. The Wild play the Boston Bruins in the home opener.
