>>Statewide Campaign to Pass a Manufactured Home Park Residents Bill
(St. Paul, MN) — Democratic Senator Liz Boldon of Rochester and Representative Matt Norris of Blaine are kicking off a statewide campaign to pass a Manufactured Home Park Residents Bill of Rights. They say the goal is to protect affordable housing for thousands of Minnesotans. Gwen Elliott lives in Blaine’s International Village and says rent hikes and evictions are pushing residents to the breaking point. “Homeowners have been forced to abandon their homes, sell their homes, or lose their homes…with some having to come out of retirement. I had to go back to work after 30 years of hard work at UPS to afford my lot rent now.” Over the next three weeks, residents at manufactured home parks across Minnesota will hold forums with local and state leaders to highlight their concerns and build support for the bill.
>>MN Farm Bureau President Calls on Congress to Re-Open Government
(Waverly, MN) — The head of the Minnesota Farm Bureau is calling on Congress to come together and reopen the federal government. President Dan Glessing of Waverly said in a statement, “The shutdown is affecting everyone. Farmers have lost access to U-S-D-A resources, and now families and communities are losing support for vital food programs.” Glessing is asking lawmakers from both sides to put Americans first and keep our country moving forward.
>>Crews Respond to Grain Dryer Fire near Dalton in Otter Tail County
(Dalton, MN) — Authorities in Otter Tail County are investigating a large grain dryer fire southwest of Dalton. Fire crews from Dalton, Elbow Lake, Wendell, and Fergus Falls located a one-thousand-bushel grain dryer engulfed in flames around 4:30 this morning. Officials say the surrounding buildings and grain storage did not appear to be damaged. No one was injured in the fire.
>>Two People Injured in Otter Tail County House Fire
(Ottertail, MN) — Two people are recovering from minor injuries suffered in a fire early this morning (Fri) near Ottertail in west central Minnesota. The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office says first responders were called to a residence with visible smoke inside around 4:30. The report says there were minor injuries to the occupants. The home has significant interior damage. Investigators say they believe the fire to be “non-suspicious in nature.”
>>Halloween Safety
(Minneapolis, MN) — Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights of the year, and with the holiday falling on a Friday, Triple-A Minnesota warns that the risks are even greater. Expect more trick-or-treaters, more parties, and more impaired drivers. “Plan ahead,” says spokesperson Brynna Knapp. “If you’re drinking, arrange a sober ride or use a rideshare. Knapp also reminds drivers to slow down and stay alert. “Treat others how you’d want to be treated if you were walking in the dark.” Parents are urged to talk to kids about safety: stay alert, use crosswalks, and make eye contact with drivers. A few minutes of prep can help ensure a safe Halloween for everyone.
