>>Bird Flu Detected in Three More Minnesota Turkey Flocks
(Undated) — The Minnesota Board of Animal Health has confirmed new cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in three commercial turkey flocks across the state. The virus reemerged last week in Redwood County—the first detection since April. On Monday, HPAI was confirmed in a flock of more than 11,000 birds in Blue Earth County, followed by a second Redwood County flock of 29,000 birds. Then on Tuesday, a Stearns County flock of 15,000 birds also tested positive. State officials continue to monitor the situation closely and are working with producers to contain the spread.
>>Search Continues for Corrections Center Escapee
(Duluth, MN) — The search for a Northeast Regional Corrections Center escapee has shifted to an ongoing investigation. A 40-year-old man, identified as Michael Hart, walked away from the facility in Saginaw on Tuesday night. Hart was reportedly seen near Highways 8 and 53 on Tuesday. Despite a significant law enforcement response, including K9s, drones, and aircraft, he wasn’t found. Officials say delays in reporting and rugged terrain made the search difficult. Two accomplices were detained. One of them, Devone Shackelton, is now charged with aiding an offender. Hart is still on the run. It’s believed he will try to make his way back to the Iron Range, where he has many family and friends.
>>Duluth Man Jailed for Shooting at Vehicle, Ramming Two Squad Cars
(Duluth, MN) — A Duluth man is accused of shooting at someone in a vehicle Wednesday night and ramming two squad cars. Police say the 36-year-old suspect discharged his firearm at a known occupant in a car and fled the area. Officers say he returned to the scene later and rammed two police vehicles, one of which had a K-9 inside. The report says no one was injured in the incidents. The man was jailed pending assault, reckless discharge of a firearm, and other charges.
>>Ag Department Has Farm Safety Grants Available
(Undated) — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has grants available aimed at improving safety on farms across the state. Grant administrator Allison Beauregard says one of the grant programs provides funds for grain storage safety upgrades like fall protection systems, grain bin level alerts, spiral staircases and platforms, and even personal protective equipment. Beauregard says another program allows farmers to retrofit tractors built before 1987 with safety upgrades, such as roll bars and seatbelts. More info on the grants can be found on the MDA website.
>>Metropolitan Airports Commission Receives National Honors
(Minneapolis, MN) — The Metropolitan Airports Commission(MAC) is being honored for its support of National Guard and Reserve employees, earning both state and national awards, including the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. MAC is one of just 15 organizations nationwide to receive the top federal honor, and also took home Minnesota’s Pro Patria Award. The recognition was celebrated at the Red Bulls Infantry Division headquarters in Arden Hills. Executive Director Brian Ryks says the awards reflect MAC’s commitment to supporting military employees and their families. The nomination came from Airport Fire Department Operator Dustin Dodge, who praised the department for making military leave simple and stress-free.
