>>MSP Travelers Urged to Check Flight Status Today Following Friday’s FAA Ground Stop
(Minneapolis, MN) — Travelers flying out of Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP) today are being urged to check their flight status before heading to the airport following Friday’s nationwide Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ground stop. FAA disruption temporarily halted departing flights across the country, creating delays and scheduling challenges for airlines and passengers. It’s believed a technical failure affected communications at air traffic control centers across the country.
>>Plane Makes Safe Emergency Landing in Denmark Township
(Denmark Township, MN) — A reported plane crash in Denmark Township, southeast of Cottage Grove Friday afternoon turned out to be a safe emergency landing. Washington County authorities responded after receiving reports of a possible aircraft crash. The plane was located in a nearby field with two adults on board. Neither occupant was injured, and neither aircraft sustained no damage. The FAA and NTSB were notified, and the aircraft was released to its owner.
>>Democrats Renew Push for Minnesota Equal Rights Amendment
(St. Paul, MN) — Minnesota Democrats are preparing to make another push for a state Equal Rights Amendment now that they control both chambers of the Legislature. DFL lawmakers say a new version of the bill includes stronger, more inclusive protections for all Minnesotans. The amendment failed to advance in 2024. Supporters say recent federal immigration enforcement actions have added urgency to the effort. Republicans argue the amendment is unnecessary because Minnesota already has equal rights protections. If approved by the Legislature during the upcoming session, the amendment would go before voters on the 2028 ballot.
>>BCA Agents Investigating Fridley Public Schools
(Fridley, MN) — The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is investigating Fridley Public Schools. Agents were at Fridley High School on Friday as part of what authorities describe as an active investigation. Schools were already closed for a scheduled staff planning and evaluation day. The BCA says there is no threat to public safety but has not released details about the case. The investigation comes amid growing concerns over the district’s finances, including overdue audits and questions from the Minnesota Department of Education. Officials have not indicated whether the two matters are connected.
>>Mayo Clinic Names New CEO
(Rochester, MN) — Mayo Clinic has named Dr. Matthew R. Callstrom its next president and chief executive officer. He will take over January 1, 2027, succeeding Dr. Gianrico Farrugia, who has led the organization since 2019. A Minnesota native, Callstrom has spent more than two decades at Mayo Clinic, serving in key leadership roles involving medical strategy, radiology and artificial intelligence. His appointment comes as Mayo Clinic looks to expand the use of AI and advance patient care while navigating changes across its healthcare operations.
>>Salvation Army Seeks More Bell Ringers as Holiday Need Grows
(Undated) — The Salvation Army’s familiar Red Kettle Campaign is underway, but organizers say they need more helping hands as demand for assistance continues to grow. Spokesman Dan Furry says bell ringers raise an average of $85 an hour, enough to provide meals for approximately 170 people. He says thousands more volunteers are needed to help generate resources for families facing hardship this holiday season. Individuals, businesses, churches and community groups can sign up for a bell-ringing shift at RegisterToRing.com.
>>Hormel’s Turkey Takeover Set for Saturday in Austin
(Austin, MN) — Thousands of local families will have a little extra help preparing for Thanksgiving. Hormel Foods and community partners are hosting their annual Hometown Turkey Takeover today (Sat) at the Mower County Fairgrounds. More than 7,000 frozen turkey breasts will be distributed, with each household receiving two turkey breasts and canned vegetables donated by Hy-Vee. The drive-through giveaway begins at 9 a.m. and continues while supplies last. No registration or identification is required. Organizers will also provide nearly 3,000 additional turkey breasts to local organizations helping fight food insecurity.
>>AAA Urges Drivers to Watch for Deer and Check Insurance Coverage
(Undated) — With deer collisions increasing this time of year, AAA is reminding drivers to stay alert and review their auto insurance coverage. Spokesperson Brynna Knapp says damage from hitting a deer is typically covered under comprehensive insurance, not standard collision coverage. Drivers involved in a crash should move to a safe location, turn on their hazard lights and avoid approaching an injured animal. Knapp also recommends contacting local authorities for assistance and notifying your insurance company as soon as possible.
