>>Prosecutors Could Rest Fergus Falls Human Smuggling Case Today
(Fergus Falls, MN) — Federal prosecutors are nearing the conclusion of their case against two men accused of being involved in a human smuggling ring in Minnesota. Steve Shand and Hari Patel face multiple charges related to smuggling migrants from India into the United States. The jury recently heard testimony from a 23-year-old man who was forced to walk across the Canadian border in a blizzard in 2022. Tragically, a family of four died during this journey. The witness reported walking for five or six hours before finally encountering a van driven by one of the defendants. Prosecutors expect to call their final witness later today.
>>Brainerd Man Killed in Crash on Snowy/Icy Highway 371
(Fort Ripley Township, MN) — The Minnesota State Patrol reports winter road conditions were a factor in a fatal crash Wednesday evening in Crow Wing County. Troopers say 37-year-old Stephen Moran of Brainerd was driving north on Highway 371 when his truck left the roadway and rolled into the median. Moran died at the scene. The report says the highway was snow- and ice-covered and that Moran was buckled up.
>>Great American Smokeout
(St. Paul, MN) — The American Cancer Society is encouraging smokers in Minnesota to give up cigarettes today (Thurs) for one day. The push is part of the 49th annual Great American Smokeout. The American Cancer Society’s Emily Myatt says it’s also a good time to make a plan to kick the habit. The editor of the Monticello Times newspaper promoted the state’s first ‘Don’t Smoke Day’ in 1974, promising to publish the names of 300 people who pledged to quit cigarettes for one day.
>> Target Announces Thousands of Deals One Day After Stock Drop
(Minneapolis)—One day after seeing its stock drop more than 20 percent, Target has announced its Black Friday deals on thousands of items. These deals are available now online and in stores until November 30. The deals include 50 percent off select tech, apparel, video games, board games, and holiday trees. The retailer will also have a special three-day-only Black Friday sale from November 28 through the 30th. Most Target stores will open at 6 a.m. on Black Friday.
>>Austin City Council Votes Against Supporting MN State Rail Plan
(Austin, MN) — The city of Austin, located in southeastern Minnesota, has decided not to support the expansion of passenger rail in the region. The Austin City Council opted not to send a letter of support to the officials working on the Minnesota State Rail Plan. Some council members cited the local costs associated with supporting the plan as a factor in their decision. The Minnesota Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting about the plan in Rochester on December 5th.
>>Wandering Sheep Back Home After Walk Around NE MN
(Two Harbors, MN) — A wandering sheep has returned home after an extensive journey across northeast Minnesota. The sheep was originally raised on a farm in Carlton and had recently been sold to new owners in Two Harbors. However, it escaped while being transferred to its new pen in late October. A volunteer rescue effort was initiated after the sheep was spotted along Lake Superior during its travels, which ultimately led to Duluth. The sheep was captured on Tuesday in Midway Township with the assistance of a tranquilizer dart. Following its unexpected adventure, the sheep has been reunited with its former owner in Carlton.
