July 29, 2024: Starry stonewort spreads concern in Northern Minnesota

Plus: The Cloquet River bridge in the Superior National Forest is at risk of collapse and closed until repairs are complete; four Minnesota tribes received federal funding to address violent crime and the opioid epidemic; and Minnesota is part of a new multi-state poll drawing feedback from rural voters.

Plus: The Crow Wing County Sheriff's Office is investigating the suspicious deaths of two adults in Mission Township; South Ridge School closed Monday in response to a school threat; the Pequot Lakes School Board is seeking feedback after 2023's failed referendum; the 2024 tourism in Minnesota was not as high as in previous years; and after school programs in the state are working to address parent burnout.

Plus: Almost half of MN is experiencing moderate drought conditions; a new form allows Minnesotans to report voting rights challenges; Crow Wing County unveils kiosks for residents to utilize community services; and Hwy 32 near Red Lake Falls is set for construction.

The grant money aims to create thousands of new child care slots and support middle-class families in Minnesota.

Multiple area homes in Red Lake's BOT, or Back of Town, neighborhood were impacted by the house explosion on Oct. 4, 2024.

Sponsored by the nonprofit Safe Routes to School, the annual, national day encourages students to walk or bike to school.

Plus: 2023 legislative session sees ballooning lobbying costs; Walz announces $6M in child care grants; Walk to School Day is next week; and Hwy 32 will soon be under construction.

Candidate forums for the Legislature, city council, mayor, school board and other local offices are taking place in communities around Northern Minnesota.

The Minnesota Department of Economic and Employment Development recently awarded the city a $589,926 grant to develop its rail corridor — a contaminated site with minimal infrastructure.

Plus: Pequot Lakes police chief says Rep. Josh Heintzeman pressured him for support; Bemidji gets grant to support redevelopment of rail corridor; and FEMA extends deadline for individual assistance from summer storms.