>>SNAP and MFIP Benefits Being Processed and Distributed Again
(St. Paul, MN) — SNAP and Minnesota Family Investment Program (M-F-I-P) benefits are being processed and distributed on their normal schedule. The Minnesota Department of Children, Families, and Youth says the federal government shutdown has ended, and recipients can continue to use their benefits as usual. Food assistance had been on hold for weeks due to uncertainty during the shutdown. State officials say they’re relieved stability is returning for those who rely on these critical programs.
>>Minnesotans May Face Delays in Energy Assistance
(St. Paul, MN) — Although the federal government has reopened, Minnesotans may still wait up to a month for energy assistance funds. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which helps more than 120-thousand households keep their heat on, is expecting delays of as long as 30 days before federal dollars arrive. State officials say utilities, including Xcel Energy and Minnesota Power, are working closely with the Department of Commerce to minimize disruptions. And as of October 1st, Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule is in effect, protecting eligible customers from having their power shut off during the winter months.
>>Tractor Driver Suffers Minor Injuries in Otter Tail County Train Crash
(Henning, MN) — A 67-year-old Henning man is recovering from minor injuries suffered in a train vs. tractor crash in Ottertail County. The sheriff’s office says the tractor was approaching a Canadian Pacific Railroad crossing on Wednesday afternoon and was unable to stop for the southbound train. They collided at the rail crossing, and the tractor driver was taken to a hospital in Perham. No one on the train was hurt. Deputies say the tractor was totaled, and neighbors helped clear machinery off the tracks.
>>Coyote Sightings in Northwest Minnesota Prompt Warnings from Authorities
(Breckenridge, MN) — A rise in coyote sightings in northwest Minnesota has prompted warnings from local authorities. The Wilkin County Sheriff’s Office says it has received several reports of coyotes spotted in Breckenridge, particularly near the Bois de Sioux Golf Course. Officials say the animals have been approaching residents and their pets, raising safety concerns. The department advises residents to secure garbage containers and remove wildlife feeders to help deter coyotes. Pet owners are also urged to closely supervise small dogs and cats while outdoors, as coyotes have been known to attack and kill small animals. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and encourage the public to report any additional sightings.
>>Start Prepping Now for Winter
(Undated) – Minnesotans need to start preparing now for what the winter might have in store. Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Allison Farole says to get an emergency kit ready to have in your car. Farole says that it should include blankets or an extra pair of shoes or socks, gloves, cat litter for traction, first aid supplies, and extra water and food in case they get stranded. Farole says you should also have something to charge your mobile device with and make sure your car always has more than half a tank of gas. More tips can be found on the DPS website.
>>Wolves Open Homestand with NBA Cup Game Against Kings
(Minneapolis, MN) — The Timberwolves play the Kings tonight to open a four-game homestand at Target Center. The Minnesota vs. Sacramento game is an N-B-A Cup matchup. The Wolves beat the Kings 114-117 on Sunday in California’s capital city. The Nuggets come to Minneapolis tomorrow (Sat) night, the Mavericks are in town Monday, and the Wizards visit on Wednesday night. Minnesota is on a three-game win streak.
