>>Gov. Walz Speaks on Meet The Press About Biden’s Age, Liability
(Undated) – A top surrogate for Joe Biden says the President’s age is an asset and not a liability. Governor Tim Walz speaking on NBC’s Meet the Press: “There is something to say about age and wisdom and I think results matter. I’ve watched Joe Biden deliver on a historic infrastructure act that’s building roads and bridges across Minnesota, Iowa, and the rest of the country.” Walz also contrasted Biden with former President Trump saying “Whether the choice becomes Donald Trump and disdain for the rule of law and Joe Biden and getting things done that outweighs that.” Walz says the 2024 election is about much more than just a candidate’s age.
>>State Officials Assure MN Cannabis Rules, Regulations Are Being Worked on Promptly
(Undated) – State officials say they’re working as fast as they can to write the rules and regulations for Minnesota’s legal cannabis industry. Charlene Briner with the Office of Cannabis Management says they understand that prospective business operators are getting anxious but she assures folks “there is work going on every day with really talented, committed, dedicated individuals that want to stand this office up and see the cannabis industry launch successfully.” Briner says people will get a good look by this spring at how the rules are shaping up. The governor’s office hasn’t provided an update on the search for a permanent director of the Office of Cannabis Management.
>>Consider MN LIHEAP for Winter Utility Bill Help
(Undated) – Minnesota’s deep freeze has our furnaces working overtime. If you’re struggling to pay your utility bills, consider applying for assistance through the state LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) program. Michael Schmitz with the state Department of Commerce says it’s not too late to apply as the application deadline is May 31st, but he “does encourage folks to apply because the sooner we get those applications the sooner our local service providers can process them.” For more information contact your local utility provider or the state Department of Commerce.
>>Potential Renovations to Xcel Energy Center Could Open Range of Opportunities
(St. Paul, MN) – As potential renovations to Xcel Energy Center are being mulled, St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter says any upgrades to the 23-year-old building would have more than just sports in mind by “being a type of space of choice when people are deciding where to put a concert, where to put a rodeo, where to put a festival – so we can be the space that people choose, and we can not only preserve this building for the next 25 years, we can do it on a more cost-effective basis.” Carter says the “full scope” of the project has yet to be determined. In December, Axios reported redevelopment of the area around Xcel was included in talks between state leaders & Wild ownership.
>>Twin Cities Salvation Army Reaches 97% of Red Kettle Campaign Goal
(Minneapolis, MN) – The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Christmas Campaign is over and donations are still being counted by the minute. Twin Cities spokesperson Dan Furry says despite initial worries, the Twin Cities finished with 97% of their goal. Furry says, “We were concerned a little earlier on, especially since Christmas Eve, which is usually one of our big days, fell on a Sunday this year. We don’t ring bells on Sundays.” Furry says regardless, he feels the Salvation Army had a good red kettle season; and encourages those who still want to give to visit their website to donate.
>>Possible Flooding Near Fort Ripley Due To Ice Jam
(Duluth, MN) — The National Weather Service has issued an alert for possible flooding along the Mississippi River near Fort Ripley. The weather service says an ice jam has been increasing water levels in the river, increasing the possibility of lowland flooding in southwestern Crow Wing and northwestern Morrison counties. The flood watch will be in effect until tomorrow morning.
>>Two People Hospitalized After Marshall Apartment Fire
(Marshall, MN) – Two people were taken to the hospital following an apartment fire Sunday night in Marshall. When firefighters arrived, they forced entry into the apartment where they encountered thick black smoke. Fire Chief Quentin Brunsvold says, “After getting water on the fire they were doing a primary search and they did find one occupant that was unconscious in the bedroom of that apartment. And they successfully rescued that individual and got her into EMS care.” The victim’s current condition is unknown, but she was reported to be conscious and talking with EMS staff at the hospital. Another occupant in the building was transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation. Minimal damage was caused to the building as the fire was contained to the apartment. Minor smoke and water damage were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
>>World Snow Sculpting Championship Set To Begin Wednesday In Stillwater
(Stillwater, MN) — Snow sculptors from around the globe will be in Stillwater this week for the World Snow Sculpting Championship. The third annual competition will kick off Wednesday at Lowell Park. This year’s warmer-than-usual weather prevented the machines that create snow for the event from doing much preparation, though organizers say they’ll be ready by the time the event starts. Teams from Canada, France, Germany, Turkey, Finland, Ecuador, Wales, Mexico, and the United States are competing for cash prizes as well as the title of world champion. Last year’s event drew about 50-thousand visitors.
>>East Grand Forks Mayor Announces Legislative Run
(East Grand Forks, MN) — East Grand Forks Mayor Steve Gander has announced that he will seek the republican endorsement for the Minnesota House 1B seat this fall and will not seek reelection as mayor. On Friday, Republican Representative Deb Kiel announced the 2024 legislative session would be her last. The Crookston resident has served for seven terms. Gander has held the top post in East Grand Forks for the past eight years after a stint on the city council. Gander says he will miss his role as mayor but the city is headed in the right direction.
