>>54 Counties Under Red Flag Warning
(St. Paul, MN) — Dry, windy conditions have prompted a Red Flag Warning across 54 Minnesota counties today as wildfire danger reaches extreme levels. The National Weather Service says low humidity and strong winds could allow fires to spread rapidly and become difficult to control. The warning covers much of northern, central, western, and southwest Minnesota. Residents are urged to avoid burning brush or debris, use caution with equipment that can create sparks, and check old ash piles for lingering embers that could reignite in the dry conditions.
>>Fire Destroys Tractor Near Pelican Rapids
(Pelican Rapids, MN) — A tractor fire northwest of Pelican Rapids resulted in a total loss Thursday afternoon, according to the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office. Officials say the tractor was owned by 38-year-old Grant Meyer of Barnesville. The fire was contained, but the tractor was destroyed. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire does not appear to be suspicious.
>>Search Continues for Person Reported Missing in Minnesota River
(Chaska, MN) — The search continues today in Carver County for a person reported missing in the Minnesota River near the Highway 41 bridge in Chaska. Emergency crews have been searching the river since Wednesday evening after reports that someone went underwater and did not resurface near the boat ramp in Winkel Park. Rescue teams are using boats, drones, sonar equipment, and shoreline crews as part of the ongoing operation. Authorities have not released the identity of the missing person.
>>Rochester Police Looking for Suspect in Fatal Shooting
(Rochester, MN) – Authorities in Rochester are looking for a suspect in a deadly shooting. Officers say a 31-year-old man was found with gunshot wounds in an apartment parking lot Thursday evening and later died in the hospital. Investigators are looking for a person of interest but have not released their name. They believe it was a targeted shooting and there is no threat to the community. The victim hasn’t been identified.
>>Minnesota Lawmakers Reach $165 Million Housing Deal
(St. Paul, MN) — Minnesota lawmakers have agreed on a $165 million housing package aimed at expanding affordable housing options and helping families struggling with rising housing costs across the state. Anne Mavity, executive director of the Minnesota Housing Partnership, says too many Minnesotans are spending a large portion of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. She says more than 25 percent of households are cost-burdened by housing expenses, with many paying half their income toward rent or mortgages. About $40 million in the package is earmarked for emergency housing assistance to help prevent homelessness. The agreement also includes funding for workforce housing projects in Greater Minnesota communities that are trying to attract workers but lack enough available housing. Mavity says the bipartisan agreement shows lawmakers recognize housing as a critical issue impacting communities statewide.
>>Wrenshall, Carlton School Districts Approve Consolidation
(Wrenshall, MN) — Voters in the Wrenshall and Carlton school districts in northeastern Minnesota have approved a plan to consolidate the two districts into one. The referendum passed 430 to 365. The merger will officially take effect on July 1st. School officials say the consolidation is aimed at improving long-term financial stability and expanding opportunities for students in both communities. Under the agreement, most Carlton residents are expected to see a property tax increase, while many Wrenshall residents could see lower taxes. Carlton Superintendent Mark Messman has also announced plans to retire once the merger is complete.
>>Study Highlights Social Media’s Mixed Impact on Kids’ Mental Health
(Undated) – New research is raising concerns about how social media may be affecting kids’ mental health, especially with constant scrolling and reliance on online feedback. University of Minnesota psychiatrist Dr. Kathryn Cullen says studies suggest a link between heavy use and poorer outcomes. Cullen says it’s not all negative because for some kids, social media can provide a connection and even a sense of belonging that may be hard to find offline. Experts say instead of strict screen-time limits, parents should focus on how use is affecting sleep, school, and activity, and keep conversations going about online safety.
>>Spring Bird Migration
(Undated) — With warm southerly winds sweeping across Minnesota, millions of migrating birds are taking to the skies as they continue their spring journey north. Bird experts say species ranging from warblers and orioles to waterfowl and songbirds are using the favorable winds to travel across the state. Peak migration season is now underway, making this one of the best times for birdwatchers to spot a wide variety of species in parks, forests, and backyards. Experts also remind residents to help protect migrating birds by turning off unnecessary outdoor lights at night and keeping pets indoors during peak migration hours.
>>Rock and Roll Hall of Famers ZZ Top Playing Mystic Lake Friday Night
(Prior Lake, MN) – Z-Z Top is bringing its Texas style of rock, blues, and boogie tonight (Fri 8pm) to Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame trio is led by original guitarist Billy Gibbons and drummer Frank Beard. Z-Z Top played the Ledge Amphitheater in Waite Park, Black Bear Casino in Carlton, and the Blue Stem Center in Moorhead last June. There are some tickets available for tonight’s show
