>>Walz Considered Leaving Public Office After Hortman Killings
(New York City, NY) — Minnesota Governor Tim Walz says the killings of former House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, made him question whether he wanted to remain in public office. In a New York Times investigation published Sunday, examining rising threats against elected officials nationwide, Walz described ongoing threats against his family, including a message sent to his daughter with a photo taken outside their home. He also raised concerns about protecting lawmakers who spend much of the year working outside the Capitol. The Hortman’s were fatally shot at their home on June 14th, 2025.
>>Minnesota Could See New Helium Industry in Lake County
(Lake County, MN) — Minnesota could become a new player in helium production. Pulsar Helium has announced an $85.5 million investment in plans for a helium liquefaction plant and a carbon dioxide capture facility. Senator Grant Hauschild (DFL-Hermantown) says the project could create jobs and supply helium for industries such as MRI technology and semiconductor manufacturing. The company is considering a location in Lake County. Hauschild says the project could also create opportunities for additional industries in northeastern Minnesota.
>>Wildfire Burns 151 Acres at Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge
(Sherburne County, MN) — A wildfire at the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge has burned approximately 151 acres. The Santiago Fire started Saturday, October 10, during unusually hot, dry and windy conditions. As of Sunday, firefighters were still working to extinguish hot spots, and the fire was reported at zero percent containment. No injuries or property damage have been reported. The cause has not been officially confirmed.
>>Minnesota Tourism Holds Steady Despite Challenging Summer
(St. Paul, MN) — Minnesota’s tourism industry remained relatively stable this summer despite wildfires in the northeast and a slight decline in travel. Jake Juliot with Explore Minnesota says hospitality employment increased about one percent, while overall travel fell roughly two percent. Higher airfare costs are also encouraging more people to take road trips and explore destinations closer to home. Juliot says tourism in northeastern Minnesota is beginning to rebound, and officials are hopeful the region will see more visitors this fall.
>>Todd County Reports Suspected Measles Cases
(Long Prairie, MN) — Todd County officials are warning residents about several suspected measles cases and urging them to make sure their vaccinations are up to date. The county previously confirmed a case involving an unvaccinated adult who had traveled within the United States. Measles can include fever, cough, runny nose and a rash. Anyone who develops symptoms should stay home and call a healthcare provider before seeking medical care to help prevent further spread.
>>St. Cloud Schools Tighten Security at Football, Soccer Games
(St. Cloud, MN) — St. Cloud Area School District 742 is increasing security at football and soccer games for the remainder of the fall season. The changes follow a social media threat of a planned fight at Tech High School’s homecoming game and a recent shooting outside an Eden Prairie football game that injured two people. All games will begin at 4:30 p.m. Spectators must pass through metal detectors, and bags are restricted to clear bags or small bags no larger than five by eight inches. Bags will be searched, and fans are expected to leave promptly after games.
