Boundary Waters wilderness burning at U.S

a sunset over a lake with clouds in the sky

Wildfires flared earlier this week and destroyed thousands of acres in Manitoba, Ontario, and Minnesota, with many of the fires straddling the U.S.-Canadian border. The Western Fire Chiefs’ map on Thursday afternoon tracked at least 17 wildfires in Minnesota, and at least 10 in Canada, near the border. The largest in Canada covered over 70,600 acres, while the largest Minnesota fire spread over 13,500 acres. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area, or BWCA, a popular wilderness area stretching 1 million acres on either side of the border, has been hit extremely hard.

Nearby residents posted videos showing the plumes of smoke covering the sky, with one local posting he hasn’t slept since watching his home burn. What caused the fires? Officials reported that a downed power line caused at least one fire in Minnesota, while at least one other resulted from an abandoned campfire in Manitoba, Canada. Officials reported that at least one other fire sparked during a lightning storm, and several other fires have undetermined causes. The fires have spread due to area dryness and record-high heat in the region. What steps have been taken? Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz declared a peacetime emergency and activated the National Guard, while rangers evacuated the BWCA. Forest officials estimated that up to 10,000 campers and canoers were within the park when evacuation orders were issued.

As of Tuesday, at least 17 people were rescued with no injuries reported. State and federal firefighters worked to contain the fires via land and air efforts. The BWCA will remain closed until at least Friday, the first time it has closed in 45 years, according to The Minnesota Star Tribune. Authorities ordered evacuations from nearby residential areas to keep locals out of the fire’s path. Fernberg Road in Minnesota has been evacuated, which has raised concerns as it is the only road in or out of Ely, Minn., the entrance to the BWCA area. MPR News released a video showing some of the evacuation efforts in the BWCA. Where else is affected? New York Gov. Kathy Hochul released a statement on Thursday morning warning New Yorkers that smoke from the fires would continue blanketing the Empire State. She expected air quality to worsen and unhealthy air conditions to spread across the state.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a similar statement on Thursday, instructing residents to stay inside whenever possible. Air quality levels across the state ranged between very unhealthy and hazardous, she reported. Wisconsin officials also issued an air quality advisory on Thursday due to wildfire smoke, suggesting residents wear N95 respirator masks and program air conditioning units to recirculate indoor air.

Source: Boundary Waters wilderness burning at U.S-Canada border | WORLD

Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6

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Dangerous smoke from Canadian wildfires moves into the Great Lakes and Northeast

mountainous countryside against cloudy morning sky

Massive plumes of Canadian wildfire smoke are set to pour over the border into the United States, bringing dangerous air quality to more than 100 million people in the Midwest and Northeast. Smoke has already been an issue this summer in parts of the West, Plains and Midwest as stateside fires have burned more than 3.6 million acres, mostly in the western half of the country. But the thicker smoke, forecast to move over New York, Washington, DC and other cities in the East, is from wildfires to the north. Check out the smoke forecast in the CNN Weather app In Canada, more than 3,000 fires have burned nearly 4.5 million acres this summer, with a dozen blazes flaring up in Ontario in recent weeks, filling the skies with smoke that is starting to drift south, like it did in an extreme way in 2023. Canadian wildfire activity this year is nowhere near the hyperactivity of 2023 but the combination of wildfires in Ontario and a heat dome in the central US spells smoky trouble for millions.

Planet-heating fossil fuel pollution is increasing the chance of prolonged smoke seasons as it tips the odds that extreme wildfire seasons like 2023’s — Canada’s worst season on record — won’t remain an outlier for long. Unhealthy smoke heads for Great Lakes and Northeast A first round of smoke is already floating over a large area from Chicago to Boston. This smoke has largely stayed higher up in the atmosphere, which means it hasn’t precipitously lowered air quality or posed a significant health risk. But a weather pattern change in coming days will cause lingering smoke and additional plumes to sink to the surface Wednesday and Thursday bringing unhealthy air quality from the Upper Midwest to New England. Wildfire smoke contains dangerous, tiny pollutants called PM2.5 that can travel deep into the lungs or enter the bloodstream when inhaled. The minuscule particles can lead to breathing problems like bronchitis and cause inflammation that aggravates diabetes, heart disease and other health conditions.

Much of Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin are under air quality alerts due to smoke over the next few days, and the National Weather Service has warned that smoke could become an air quality concern in Chicago later this week. People with lung or heart disease, children and older adults are especially at risk for smoke-related illness. The NWS advises people avoid smoke by limiting outdoor activities and keeping windows closed overnight. The only silver lining the smoke brings is that it could dampen some of the heat. Smoke blocks sunlight, which would be welcome news for many parts of the Northeast expected to see high temperatures in the coming days. The smoke is now streaming into the US thanks to a record-breaking heat dome parked over the central part of the country. So far there have been several heat domes — large, slow-moving high pressure systems — this year from the West Coast to the Northeast.

Air flows clockwise around these domes, but until now, none of them have been in quite the right spot to drag Canadian smoke south. The northern edge of this week’s heat dome is perfectly placed over northern Minnesota and southern Ontario, where wildfires rage. This placement means smoke will flow east and south, right into parts of the Midwest and Northeast. With several months left in wildfire season, the door will remain open for more Canadian smoke plumes to migrate south. How does this smoke compare to 2023? This time three years ago, records were being broken as 4,300 fires had already burned 25 million acres across Canada. In June 2023, smoke consumed the New York City skyline as northerly winds pushed a wall of wildfire smoke from Quebec into the Big Apple. The culprits were a dominant high pressure system in the Hudson Bay and a storm system over Atlantic Canada. Together, they funneled smoke into the Midwest and Northeast. Both systems were stagnant, keeping the smoke in place for about four days. 2023’s smoke event was so far-reaching, a study from last year estimates more than 350 million people were exposed to daily wildfire smoke-induced air pollution. Fortunately, wildfire activity in Canada started later compared to that record-setting year, making it unlikely this year’s smoke will be as pervasive.

Smoke seasons are getting worse In the US, the window for outbreaks of unhealthy wildfire smoke is getting bigger, as fire seasons in the West have become longer and more extreme. Climate change was found to be responsible for the majority of the increase of surface wildfire smoke. This smoke has eroded decades of air quality improvements in parts of the US, particularly in the West. Planet-warming pollution caused approximately 15,000 more deaths in the US from wildfire particulate matter from 2006 to 2020 than would have otherwise occurred in a cooler world, a study published last year found.

Source: Dangerous smoke from Canadian wildfires moves into the Great Lakes and Northeast | CNN

So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.
James 1:19

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Boundary Waters wilderness burning at U.S

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Extreme heat prompts safety measures at international soccer tournament in Blaine

Youth soccer players competing on field with crowd and scoreboard

North America’s largest youth soccer tournament kicks off Tuesday in Blaine, Minnesota, bringing more than 1,100 teams from 24 states and 13 countries to the National Sports Center.  About 17,000 athletes from around the globe have arrived, all hoping to make a championship run. But they’ll have to face an added opponent — the sweltering sun. Minnesota is facing extreme heat for a long stretch, forcing organizers to change their game plan.  “We have a medical department here on campus that is a walk-in clinic for players, and we work with the medical team to monitor what we call the wet ball,” said Sara Soli, chief marketing and communications officer of the National Sports Center. Soli said several heat safety measures are in place, including mandatory hydration breaks during games, additional hydration stations and medical staff on every field who will monitor conditions and shorten games by five to ten minutes a half.

For Twin Cities Rush, a local club that won the competition in 2025, the heat is making them rethink strategy.  “Letting the ball do the work, passing it around to people rather than dribbling,” said athlete Leah Schmitt. “The longer you’re holding possession of the ball, the more tired you’re going to get, so passing.” Soli says safety is the number one priority throughout the week and will continue monitoring weather conditions and adjust schedules if needed. No matter the temperature, the goal is still the same for athletes. “Getting to see all the new faces, all the excitement and then playing the sport that we love the most,” smiled Maddie Peterson.  The first match of the eight-day tournament kicks off Tuesday at 7 a.m. Officials say the Target USA Cup brought in over $42 million to the state in 2025. 

Source: Extreme heat prompts safety measures at international soccer tournament in Blaine – CBS Minnesota

For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Matthew 6:14

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John Deere owners will get the right to repair their own equipment under a new FTC settlement

green and yellow tractor on brown field

It looks like John Deere owners can soon feel free to fix their own machines. The Federal Trade Commission and attorneys general from several states secured a right-to-repair settlement Wednesday with agriculture equipment giant Deere & Co. — commonly known as John Deere — that requires the company to let farmers and independent shops fix their own equipment. The Illinois-based manufacturer has faced complaints for years for withholding the software needed for repairs and forcing customers to use authorized dealers instead of independent ones. This marks the second right-to-repair settlement Deere has reached this year, following a separate $99 million class-action settlement with farmers in April. Though the class-action compensated consumers, the FTC’s settlement instead requires Deere to make its repair services available to equipment owners and independent shops.

The FTC and attorneys general from Arizona, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin brought the antitrust lawsuit in January 2025, arguing that Deere had illegally restricted farmers and independent shops that might otherwise service them from repairing farm equipment such as tractors. Deere also makes engines and equipment for forestry, landscaping and construction. Under the order filed in Illinois, Deere will now be required to make diagnostic and repair tools available to equipment owners and independent repair shops, not only its own network of authorized dealers. It also prevents Deere dealers from retaliating against equipment owners or repair shops who choose to fix their own equipment instead of paying for Deere’s services. The order is headed to Judge Iain D. Johnston for his approval. “For too long, Arizona farmers and independent mechanics have been at the mercy of Deere’s monopoly over repair tools, forced to wait — and pay — for authorized dealers just to fix broken tractors and other equipment,” Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said in a statement Wednesday. Deere must pay $1 million collectively to the five states for antitrust enforcement costs and will be subject to strict compliance oversight for the next 10 years.

In the complaint, the FTC argued that Deere provides a service software tool to authorized dealers but does not provide the full version to equipment owners or independent shops. Deere had said the lawsuit was baseless, denied that its distribution of service tools was anticompetitive and argued that it could not monopolize services since it does not directly provide them. Deere maintained its commitment to independent repair in a statement Wednesday, adding that the agreement with the FTC reinforces its innovation of more flexible repair options. “This is good news for our customers and for the future of how Deere equipment is supported,” said Denver Caldwell, vice president of aftermarket and customer support. Right-to-repair has become an increasingly common issue over the years, especially for tech products, with consumers complaining that even simple repairs can only be done by company-authorized dealers.

Source: John Deere owners will get the right to repair their own equipment under a new FTC settlement – CBS Minnesota

Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.
Hebrews 12:14

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Hot, humid Tuesday in Twin Cities, with storms set to arrive late

photo of city buildings

Tuesday will be another hot and sunny day in the Twin Cities, with possibly severe storms arriving late. Highs will be in the upper 80s, and it will be humid. The best chance for storms in the metro arrives Tuesday night. Clouds will stream in from out west before the threat arrives, likely around 8 p.m. Strong winds and hail are possible. A few showers and thunderstorms may linger into Wednesday before conditions gradually improve. After that, dry weather will return for the rest of the week, with seasonable summer temperatures. Heat and humidity will build heading into next week, with increasing potential for a prolonged hot stretch.

Source: Hot, humid Tuesday in Twin Cities, with storms set to arrive late – CBS Minnesota

That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death.
Philippians 3:10

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Early storms across southern Minnesota Tuesday, then more heat and humidity – CBS Minnesota

After a line of storms moves through the state Tuesday morning, Minnesota will be left with another hot and humid day. Those storms started in southern Minnesota and are moving northeast. WCCO has issued a NEXT Weather Alert due to the potential for severe weather, including strong winds, hail and heavy rain. As of 5:20 a.m., the only impact in the Twin Cities has been rain in the west metro, though a severe thunderstorm watch is in place until 10 a.m.

Source: Early storms across southern Minnesota Tuesday, then more heat and humidity – CBS Minnesota

And so it was, because the midwives feared God, that He provided households for them.
Exodus 1:21

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Minnesota man accused in a $250M fraud scheme taken into custody in Somalia

United States Courthouse building with snow-covered steps and people walking outside

Authorities say a Minnesota man charged with helping to orchestrate a $250 million fraud scheme has been taken into custody in Somalia. Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh, 42, of Burnsville, Minnesota, was taken into custody Thursday in Mogadishu, U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen said in a news release. Court documents do not show if Eidleh has obtained an attorney, and he has not yet had an opportunity to enter a plea in the case. Eidleh is one of dozens of people who were indicted in 2022 in connection with what prosecutors said was a massive scheme to defraud a federal meals program. According to court documents, Eidleh was an employee of Feeding Our Future, an organization that claimed it helped provide millions of meals to children in need during the pandemic under a federal child nutrition program.

But prosecutors say just a small portion of the federal money went toward feeding kids, with the rest laundered through shell companies and spent on property, luxury cars and travel. Eidleh is accused of creating fake child nutrition program sites, falsely claiming they were feeding thousands of children a day and creating shell companies that purported to be meal vendors at the sites. The indictment charges him with 31 counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, federal programs bribery, conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering. Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Department of Justice’s National Fraud Enforcement Division said Eidleh was a central figure in “one of the largest fraud schemes in Minnesota history.”

“He not only stole taxpayer dollars, but he also robbed vulnerable children of critical resources they desperately needed. Rather than answer for his crimes in the United States, he fled to Somalia in a futile attempt to evade justice,” McDonald said. President Donald Trump pointed to the fraud case as part of his justification for launching a massive immigration crackdown in Minnesota late last year.

Source: Minnesota man accused in a $250M fraud scheme taken into custody in Somalia | CNN

“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, And try Me now in this,” Says the LORD of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it.”
Malachi 3:10

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Over a dozen cases dropped against Minnesota protesters accused of assaulting federal agents during ICE operation

United States Federal Courthouse illuminated with stormy clouds overhead

Federal prosecutors are continuing to dismiss charges initially brought against people in Minnesota for allegedly assaulting federal officers during the winter.  WCCO dug through court filings and identified at least 18 people whose cases are now dropped. A federal judge officially dismissed the charges for 15 of them; three are pending a judge’s approval after prosecutors filed motions to dismiss the charges. At least 17 cases are still pending, with judges denying defense dismissal motions in several of them.  Richard Painter, a legal expert with the University of Minnesota and former chief White House ethics lawyer for President George W. Bush, said that it’s clear to him that federal prosecutors brought several cases forward without sufficient evidence. 

“It appears that the United States Attorney’s Office in Minnesota is bringing some weak cases against protestors,” Painter said, adding that he believes that there was pressure from the Trump administration to charge people.  According to court records, defense and government attorneys alike asked for case dismissals for a variety of reasons.  Juan Carlos Rodriguez Romero was accused in December of ramming into ICE vehicles in St. Paul, prompting an ICE agent to fire his weapon, hitting no one. On June 8, United States Attorney Daniel Rosen signed off on a dismissal motion based in part because prosecutors “thoroughly reassessed the evidence” and concluded that they were not confident that they could obtain and sustain a conviction against Rodriguez Romero.  In January, ICE leadership acknowledged that ICE agent Christian Castro may have lied under oath about what happened the night he shot Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis in north Minneapolis.

This led to the assault charges against Sosa-Celis and another man being dropped; Castro is now facing charges in Hennepin County for the shooting and for falsely reporting a crime. Just a week after that incident, federal officers said Paul Johnson violently resisted arrest in north Minneapolis. On Thursday, Rosen signed a motion to dismiss the charges against Johnson. The U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota acknowledged issues raised by Johnson and his legal team, including allegations that agents shackled him to a bed at HCMC without access to his phone for days.  “Based on newly received discovery, the government intends to pursue an investigation into allegations raised in Mr. Johnson’s filings; therefore the interests of justice support dismissal of this case,” Rosen’s motion reads in Johnson’s case.  In the more than 30 cases WCCO reviewed, one name appeared across a variety of different cases.

HSI Special Agent Richard Berger submitted sworn affidavits prompting probable cause for the arrest of Johnson and nine others, whose charges were ultimately dismissed. Berger submitted affidavits in at least 12 cases that are still ongoing.  In a hearing in Gillian Etherington’s case in April, which is still ongoing, U.S. District Court Magistrate David Schultz said that he became “concerned with the veracity” of multiple affidavits related to federal officer assault cases that came from Berger. Schultz said that in multiple instances, Berger “did not have any personal knowledge of the events described in the affidavits that he has submitted to this court as sworn affidavits.” A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security ignored questions from WCCO about whether there has been an internal review of incident reports or legal filings.

The spokesperson instead provided a statement describing Johnson, who prosecutors are dropping the federal case against, as an “anti-ICE rioter.”  U.S. prosecutors in Minnesota on Tuesday announced charges against 15 people they say conspired to “violently oppose immigration law enforcement,” though Rosen failed to describe a single example of injuries to federal agents when repeatedly questioned. When asked what makes the latest slate of indictments different than other cases that have been dropped, Rosen said he doesn’t think any cases have “failed in any way.”

Source: Over a dozen cases dropped against Minnesota protesters accused of assaulting federal agents during ICE operation – CBS Minnesota

One thing I have desired of the LORD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, And to inquire in His temple.
Psalm 27:4

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Minnesota is enjoying a “boring” mosquito season thus far. Here’s what’s keeping them under control for now.

mosquito on human skin

If you’ve noticed fewer mosquitoes so far this year, you’re not imagining it.  “Boring year so far,” said Alex Carlson, public affairs manager with the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District. He says dry conditions have prevented many of the floodwater mosquitoes that typically dominate Minnesota summers from hatching. “The end of the winter had a very low snowpack, so we didn’t see a lot of flooding in the early spring, and then it’s been very dry through most of May and early June so far,” Carlson said. Floodwater mosquitoes, which typically make up the bulk of Minnesota’s mosquito population, rely on rainfall and standing water to hatch.

“When we don’t get those rains, those eggs just build up and they don’t hatch,” Carlson said. Not all mosquitoes have disappeared, however. “There are some species that are not as dependent on rain that will still be out in regular numbers,” Carlson said. Still, the species most people encounter have remained well below normal. The district monitors traps throughout the seven-county metro area, and last week’s collections have shown significantly fewer mosquitoes than usual. “The average across the district was about 15 times below the 10-year average for that particular week,” Carlson said. Despite the slow start, experts say mosquito season is far from over. “There’s always time for mosquitos to come back,” Carlson said. Rain in the weeks ahead could quickly change the outlook. “If we do see rains in the coming weeks then those numbers will start to rebound,” Carlson said. The district says residents can help limit mosquito breeding by removing standing water around their homes, including in buckets, bird baths and other containers where mosquitoes can lay eggs.

Source: Minnesota is enjoying a “boring” mosquito season thus far. Here’s what’s keeping them under control for now. – CBS Minnesota

For I know that my Redeemer lives, And He shall stand at last on the earth.
Job 19:25

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Man arrested hours after opening fire on Hennepin County deputies in south Minneapolis, sheriff says

a person with handcuffs

Law enforcement officers arrested a man in south Minneapolis Tuesday evening following an hourslong standoff. The deputies were attempting to serve an arrest warrant for 31-year-old Tyler Joseph O’Brien around 11:30 a.m. at an apartment unit on West 28th Street and Nicollet Avenue when they heard multiple shots fired. Deputies retreated and heard several more shots, according to Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt.

Deputies quickly learned a woman and child were in the apartment with O’Brien and were able to assist them in safely exiting the building. The apartment building was evacuated while the suspect remained barricaded inside. Witt says about an hour into the standoff, O’Brien told authorities he had pulled the pin on an explosive device and was willing to throw it. Another shot was heard, but Witt says no explosive device was used.

Source: Man arrested hours after opening fire on Hennepin County deputies in south Minneapolis, sheriff says – CBS Minnesota

But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.”
1 Peter 3:14

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Overnight house fire kills one in central Minnesota

house on fire

Authorities are investigating what caused a deadly fire in central Minnesota early Sunday morning. The Grant County Sheriff’s Office says it received multiple reports of a large fire in Land Township just after 1 a.m. A deputy driving in the area provided an exact location of the fire and said that a residence and nearby structures were on fire. Upon arrival, firefighters found all structures on the property fully engulfed. Crews were able to extinguish the fire. While investigating the fire, authorities say they found a deceased person inside the home. The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office will determine a cause of death and identify the victim. The Hoffman, Barrett, Kensington and Herman fire departments all assisted in the response.

Source: Overnight house fire kills one in central Minnesota – CBS Minnesota

And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7

1 Peter 1:6–7

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1 Timothy 1:13-15

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Psalm 1:1–3

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Ephesians 4:29

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Dakota County in midst of fentanyl-related overdose boom: “We need to alert the public”

person holding silver and green scissors

A Twin Cities sheriff is calling a spike in overdose cases an epidemic. Sheriff Joe Leko says Dakota County, which has just under a half-million residents, has seen 25 suspected overdoses between May 29 through June 2. Two of those cases were fatal. “It’s at the point we need to alert the public and that there’s a danger to first responders,” Leko said. He says this isn’t the first time they’ve seen a spike like this. “There’s a lot of people experiencing this loss in overdoses that might not be your traditional drug addicts,” he said. 

Leko says things have changed, but remained the same in some form. In the past, meth labs were popular, but now it’s fentanyl that’s taking over. “We are in a hub, Minneapolis, St. Paul,” he said. “We found out in the seven-county metro, there’s an overdose every 30 minutes.” In Hennepin County, the state’s most populated at 1.3 million, the problem is much worse. The sheriff’s office says on average since March, they’ve had around 200 suspected overdose events each week. About three of those cases were deadly. “I think we just need to be open-minded and create awareness,” Leko said. “These drugs go beyond just using drugs.” Narcan, also known as naloxone, is a drug that helps someone who is overdosing.

Source: Dakota County in midst of fentanyl-related overdose boom: “We need to alert the public” – CBS Minnesota

With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
Psalm 119:10

Christian Persecution June 2 – May 28, 2026

Christian persecution published between May 28 and June 4, 2026. These come primarily from specialized monitoring organizations like International Christian Concern (ICC) and Global Christian Relief. No large-scale violent incidents (e.g., mass killings or…

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God Sees Your Unseen Efforts

God has not overlooked a single act of your faithfulness, not one prayer, not one quiet sacrifice. Even when no one else sees, He remembers, and your labor in love is never wasted. God…

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Northern Minnesota wildfire prompts evacuations near Burntside Lake

photo of burning forest

Officials ordered residents to evacuate Monday afternoon as crews work to extinguish a wildfire in northern Minnesota. The U.S. Forest Service says the fire is located in the Superior National Forest northwest of the North Arm of the Burntside Lake area, approximately eight miles northwest of Ely. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office said agencies initially responded to the report of black smoke coming from the north side of Birch Bay on Burntside Lake around 2:56 p.m. Evacuations are in effect in the area of Lindskog Road and the southernmost part of North Arm Road in Morse Township as a precaution, according to the sheriff’s office. On Monday afternoon and evening, fire personnel and aircraft were responding to the fire, which is estimated to be 30 acres in size. The sheriff’s office says the Forest Service will monitor it overnight and firefighting efforts will start again on Tuesday morning. As of Monday night, no structures have been lost as a result of the blaze.

Source: Northern Minnesota wildfire prompts evacuations near Burntside Lake – CBS Minnesota

For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Romans 13:9

A House Divided

Division within the church is one of the enemy’s greatest tools because it weakens unity, damages witness, and distracts believers from the mission of Christ. I personally believe that all of the…

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Ecclesiastes 3:1

For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven: In the Book of Ecclesiastes verse 3:1, we’re reminded that life moves in seasons, every moment has a…

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Lynx Caught on Video in Northern Minnesota

a canada lynx in close up shot

They captured a lot of really neat lynx footage this past fall and winter! They are just such ethereal looking creatures, and its always a highlight when they get footage of them, especially in the daylight. They were going to make a video sharing their best lynx footage from the fall and winter but the video ended up being really long so they split it in two!

This is the first video and they will share the second one soon! Enjoy! Learn more about the Voyageurs Wolf Project: Website: http://www.voyageurswolfproject.org

Source: Incredible footage of lynx in northern Minnesota

The rich man’s wealth is his strong city, And like a high wall in his own esteem.
Proverbs 18:11

China fueling anti-data center sentiment across US: Trump admin

The Trump administration and “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary claimed anti-data center sentiments across the US are being fueled by a Chinese propaganda campaign. O’Leary — whose 40,000-acre data center plans outside Salt Lake City have been met with protests — claimed in a Monday video that “nefarious accounts out of the country” tied to…

“Rare” harpy eagle arrives at National Aviary

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Dead gray whale found in water off San Leandro

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Gov Walz Pardons Convicted Illegal Aliens Blocking Deportation in Minnesota

On Wednesday, Democrat Minnesota Governor Tim Walz pardoned a criminal illegal alien convicted of armed robbery – preventing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from being able to use the conviction as grounds for deportation. Jai Vang, an illegal alien from Laos, who was convicted of aiding and abetting and armed robbery in Hennepin County…

Hosea 4:6

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I will also reject you, that you may be no priest to me. Because you have forgotten your God’s law, I will also forget your children. This is a sobering warning about the danger of rejecting God’s truth. The verse says, “My…

1 miner rescued after more than a week trapped in flooded Laos cave

At least one Laos gold miner has been brought out of a flooded cave where monsoon rains trapped a group for over a week, according to a Laotian rescue organization.  Rescue Volunteer for People said on social media that a person, who was not named, was brought out safely at 8:37 p.m. local time on Friday. It…

Florida troopers net 249 in multi-agency immigration sweep

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Texas roller coaster malfunction leaves riders stranded 100 feet in the air for hours

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Suspect in killings of 3 elderly men in Hawaii arrested after massive manhunt

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Bat found in Irvine Regional Park tests positive for rabies

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Blue Origin New Glenn rocket explodes on launch pad in Florida

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Black bear spotted wandering around Worcester, Massachusetts: “I was terrified” 😱

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Why we need to read the Bible; With a 30 day reading plan

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Fire in train car near New York City’s Penn Station injures five and disrupts service

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Northern California man arrested after major drug bust on Nebraska freeway, officials say

Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) says troopers seized more than 500 pounds of suspected cocaine during a traffic stop on Interstate 80 Wednesday morning and arrested a Northern California man. The stop happened around 10:25 a.m. near Milford, Nebraska, at mile marker 382 on eastbound I-80. Troopers said a Nissan Rogue was pulled over after it…

Riverside County beekeeper loses 80 hives, millions of bees in Verona Fire

A Riverside County beekeeper says that last week’s Verona Fire, which broke out near Hemet and burned hundreds of acres, caused him to lose 80 hives and millions of bees.  Brandon Teller, of BeeDoctor Bee Removal, says the loss could have a critical impact on the region’s farmers and shoppers. “As the beekeeper, that’s devastating…

Dems cut ties with scandal-plagued Graham Platner, warn of ‘civil war’ in party

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High E. coli levels along Chattahoochee River force business closures after days of rain

Elevated E. coli levels along parts of the Chattahoochee River are forcing some businesses to temporarily shut down operations as officials continue monitoring unsafe water conditions following days of heavy rain. The Chattahoochee Riverkeeper says spikes in bacteria levels after storms are common, but experts say the duration of the current contamination event is unusual.…

Dog shoots woman with shotgun at Nebraska convenience store

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3 Pastors Killed Returning from Peace Conference

Three tribal church pastors from the Thadou Baptist Association (TBA) of India were killed, and four others were injured in an armed ambush on May 13 in Kangpokpi district of Manipur. Roughly 10 armed men used automatic weapons to shoot two vehicles carrying the church leaders as they returned from a peace and reconciliation conference…

Sea lion makes splash at Monterey Bay race as it joins canoe crew

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Video shows deer breaking into Minnesota Montessori school

School was not in session over the holiday weekend, but a four-legged friend still managed to pay a visit to a Zimmerman, Minnesota, Montessori school. The entire incident lasted less than 10 minutes, but left Prairie Hill Montessori with a shattered door and quite the story to tell. “We got a call, we were up…

California veteran known for pro-Trump display outside his home dies after assault

A southern California man has died after an assault last week in front of his San Diego area home, which was well known for its extensive collection of US flags and signs supporting Donald Trump. Authorities confirmed on Monday that Kerry Sheron, a 69-year-old US army veteran, died days after he was attacked on Wednesday…

Small plane crashes at Sonoma Valley Airport; 3 injured

A small plane crashed at an airport in Sonoma County on Wednesday, injuring three people, authorities said. The crash happened at about 4:20 p.m. at the Sonoma Valley Airport, also known locally as the Schellville Airport, in Sonoma. The plane ended upside down with major damage inside a watery ditch adjacent to the runway. The…

Marmot climbs into truck’s frame in Colorado, rides from Lake City to Broomfield

A marmot took an unexpected trip across Colorado this week after it climbed into the frame of a truck. The marmot wound up traveling more than 250 miles, from Lake City in Hinsdale County to Broomfield in the northwestern part of the Denver metro area. City of Broomfield Officials from the Broomfield Police Department described…

The News Part 2

Dear Heavenly Father, as I enter this day please give me the words that I need to share who you are and help me present your love to all that seriously need you Lord. Thank you for the awesome gifts that you have given me. In Jesus Name Amen As we sit here being splashed…

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Gov Walz Pardons Convicted Illegal Aliens Blocking Deportation in Minnesota

Man in suit standing at podium with state seal and people in background

On Wednesday, Democrat Minnesota Governor Tim Walz pardoned a criminal illegal alien convicted of armed robbery – preventing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from being able to use the conviction as grounds for deportation. Jai Vang, an illegal alien from Laos, who was convicted of aiding and abetting and armed robbery in Hennepin County in 1994, was taken into ICE custody in January during its Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota. Walz falsely called illegal alien Vang a “citizen” in remarks Wednesday during a ceremony where the governor announced and signed the pardon:

“I do not see how it would serve his family, nor the economic interest where we have a taxpaying citizen who is creating job growth and living a life free from any criminal activity.”

Walz claimed that Vang has been a “critical member of the community” since his release from prison, adding that he can find “no reason how Minnesota will be safer or better if Mr. Vang is deported.” Vang’s pardon is just one of Gov. Walz’s rabid efforts to thwart federal enforcement of the nation’s immigration laws. During Operation Metro Surge, for example, he publicly vilified ICE agents, smearing them as “Modern-day Gestapo.”

On May 4, Gov. Walz pardoned another criminal illegal alien from Laos who was convicted of two counts of assault – thus, removing the criminal convictions that made the illegal alien lose his green card and removable from the U.S. Two days later, the U.S. Department of Homeland responded with a statement titled “MINNESOTA MADNESS: Minnesota Board of Pardons Unanimously Pardons Criminal Illegal Alien Convicted of Two Counts of Assault,” exposing how Walz’s pardon eliminated the grounds for deporting a violent thug: “On May 4, 2026, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and the state Board of Pardons granted an emergency pardon to At “Ricky” Xayasounethone Chandee to prevent his imminent deportation to Laos.

“Xayasounethone Chandee, an illegal alien from Laos, was convicted of two counts of assault in 1993. An Immigration Judge issued Chandee a final order of removal in 1995.  “Now, the Minnesota Board of Pardons’ decision could thwart his removal from the United States.

‘The Minnesota Board of Pardons’ unanimous decision pardoning an illegal alien convicted of two counts of assault is absolute INSANITY,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis.

 “Chandee lost his green card following his convictions for assault. Following his criminal convictions, he was placed in removal proceedings and issued a final order of removal by a judge. Minnesota’s sanctuary politicians’ pardon took away this violent thug’s qualifying convictions that made him removable from the U.S.’”

Source: Gov Walz Pardons Convicted Illegal Aliens Blocking Deportation in Minnesota

For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Romans 13:9

Daily Bread; Psalm 91:4

Daily Verse He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. Psalm 91:4 ESV Refuge: shelter or…

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The News Part 1

Dear Heavenly Father, as this is read give understanding and conviction to those reading this. May there be understanding where there needs to be understanding and conviction where there needs…

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🇺🇸 Memorial Day 🇺🇸

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women who…

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Amos 3:7

 “For the Lord God does nothing without revealing his secret to his servants the prophets. This verse reveals that God does not act without warning His people first. The verse teaches that…

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Video shows deer breaking into Minnesota Montessori school

Fierce stag with large antlers standing on a forest trail in autumn with misty mountains in the background

School was not in session over the holiday weekend, but a four-legged friend still managed to pay a visit to a Zimmerman, Minnesota, Montessori school. The entire incident lasted less than 10 minutes, but left Prairie Hill Montessori with a shattered door and quite the story to tell. “We got a call, we were up at our cabin… I was more concerned about the deer, which is just the way I am,” said Katherine Curtis, the school’s owner and instructor. Curtis says the entire moment was caught on CCTV. It shows the deer break through a tempered glass door before tearing through the building, knocking items off shelves and attempting to exit through another door.

Eventually, a local sheriff’s deputy responded and was able to shoo the deer out the door. “We were all like amazed at how fast it all happened. Actually, how fast the sheriff was able to get here,” Curtis said. On Tuesday, Curtis was using the incident as a teaching moment. The school had painted a life-size deer on the boarded-up door, and students were coloring deer photos. “All of the children came in this morning and reported to me what happened,” she said. “It’s unique. It’s something we can remember for years and we’ll have the video.

Source: Video shows deer breaking into Minnesota Montessori school – CBS Minnesota

No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light.
Luke 8:16

Isaiah 11:2

And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord Isaiah 11:2…

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The tale of a Ford, a nest, and a Robin

A Ford dealership in Kansas can’t let a customer take home an already-bought F-250 Super Duty, and the reason is for the birds—quite literallySee, Olathe Ford of Olathe, Kansas, which posted its…

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The King is Coming

They shouted “Hosanna” like a King was arriving, but didn’t realize a Savior was surrendering. Don’t just celebrate Jesus for what you want Him to do, honor Him for who He truly…

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Break Free and Run the Race

Break free from sin, and run your race like it matters. We must understand, getting rid of our anchors will still keep us in the race. ⚓️ 📖Therefore, since we are surrounded…

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Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara resigns after internal probe into his conduct, mayor says

selective focus of a police car

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara has resigned following an internal investigation into his conduct, the mayor announced Tuesday evening.  In a press conference, Mayor Jacob Frey said Assistant Police Chief Katie Blackwell is the acting police chief effective immediately.  In a written reprimand to the police chief, Frey said an investigation into O’Hara’s behavior found he interfered with a prior investigation that included allegations he had “engaged in sexual intimate relationships” with city employees. 

Frey said the investigation substantiated that O’Hara “knowingly and intentionally” deleted a contact card for a city employee from his city-issued cell phone during the original investigation, “in an attempt to shield that evidence” of his connection to the employee from investigators.  “Although the investigators have concluded that the underlying allegations from the original investigation remain not substantiated, your interference with the investigation risked the integrity of the investigation and constitutes a significant breach of trust,” Frey’s reprimand to the chief said.  Earlier this month, O’Hara was re-nominated as police chief by Frey, with the mayor saying, “he’s the right leader for this moment.”

Source: Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara resigns after internal probe into his conduct, mayor says – CBS Minnesota

But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.
Matthew 12:36

Letting God Take the Lead

God doesn’t guide the loud, the proud, or the self-sufficient, He leads the humble who are willing to follow. Lay down your pride, and watch how clearly His path unfolds before…

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Primary Elections; May 19, 2026

Today, Tuesday, May 19, 2026, is a major primary election day in six states: Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Oregon, and Pennsylvania. These are mostly partisan primaries (Democratic and Republican) to select…

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What does Hosanna Mean?

Hosanna: Getting to Know Him Do you want eternal life? Do you want to enter heaven through the only guide that can help you navigate your way there? To enter His…

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Matthew 25:21

“His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will set you over many things. Enter into the joy of…

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2 Peter 2:1-3

But false prophets also arose among the people, as false teachers will also be among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, denying even the Master who bought them, bringing…

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Recognizing the Trap of Offense

A wounded heart builds walls higher than pride ever could, harder to win back than a fortified city. Choose your words carefully, because one broken relationship can become a locked gate…

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Abortion Survivor; Amy’s Story

My story is unique in that it has two beginnings. I was born on June 6, 1980, in Ashland, Oregon. A young lady, probably a student at a nearby university, learned…

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Volunteers set out to lay flags on every headstone at Fort Snelling National Cemetery

patriotic tribute at military cemetery

Thousands of Minnesotans are called to action this Memorial Day weekend, stemming from a simple conversation a decade ago. “We just feel like this is what we’re supposed to be doing on Memorial Day,” said Jill Cooper, a volunteer with Flags for Fort Snelling. Over 2,500 volunteers walk the hundreds of acres of Fort Snelling National Cemetery. “I was on a submarine and having served and lost people, you realize each one of these is a person or two people. These aren’t just symbols. These were people,” said Sean Wait, volunteer and veteran. It’s an annual tradition recognizing those people who served us. It started in 2015 with one mastermind who inquired with the cemetery and had a fraction of the volunteers she has now, to help her place the flags.

“For me, it’s very humbling, bringing it back to ‘this is what matters,'” said Joanne Malmstedt, president and founder of Flags for Fort Snelling. “I feel like so much of the younger generations have lost the importance of what all of this means.” Throughout the weekend, volunteers are placing roughly 195,000 flags to cover every headstone at Fort Snelling. Organizers told WCCO they’re still looking for those to help them collect the flags on Saturday. “It’s just really impactful when you look around, and you see and think, how many cemeteries there are around the country,” said Wait.  Flags for Fort Snelling is a registered 501C3. “I don’t collect a penny from this. Nobody gets a paycheck from this. Every penny that we receive goes right back to making sure these veterans can be honored and remembered from year to year,” said Malmstedt. “A promise was made to never forget so we need to make sure that’s upheld and remembered.”

Source: Volunteers set out to lay flags on every headstone at Fort Snelling National Cemetery – CBS Minnesota

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

Organ Harvesting in China

You may think you know about the illegal world of organ harvesting, but there’s an even a darker side to this practice than merely…

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Wildfire near Breezy Point grows to 1,600 acres in northern Minnesota, DNR identifies “people of interest”

fire in forest

A wildfire roaring about 10 miles east of Breezy Point, Minnesota, has grown to over 1,600 acres, officials said in a Tuesday morning update. According to the Minnesota Incident Command System, the Flanders Fire is now nearly 60% contained. Crews have been working since the weekend to contain the flames. The Department of Natural Resources said Tuesday that it has found the origin of the fire and identified “people of interest.” County Road 11, which was closed between Cross Lake and State Highway 6 is now reopened. However officials are asking that the public avoid the general area unless absolutely necessary.  Evacuation orders will be lifted at noon and residents will be permitted to return to their homes.  Roughly 140 crew members have been assessing hazardous trees and tempering hot spots.

The Crow Wing County sheriff’s drone team was also able to launch drones in order to better map the flames from the air. Officials announced Monday evening that the other major wildfire from over the weekend, near Two Harbors, has been completely contained. At least 34 structures were lost in the 356-acre wildfire. Gov. Tim Walz toured the damage on Monday. “These fires have disrupted communities and forced evacuations, but the coordinated response across local, state, and federal partners has made a real difference,” he said.

Source: Wildfire near Breezy Point grows to 1,600 acres in northern Minnesota, DNR identifies “people of interest” – CBS Minnesota

O my soul, you have said to the LORD, “You are my Lord, My goodness is nothing apart from You.”
Psalm 16:2

Two teens injured in Bloomington shooting

Two teenagers were injured in a shooting in Bloomington, Minnesota, Monday night, police said. It happened around 10:10 p.m. on the 7900 block of Bloomington Avenue South, according to the city’s police…

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Matthew 1:22-23

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” This verse explains that Jesus’…

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Romans 12:19

 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” This verse teaches believers not to seek personal revenge…

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Wildfire-hit residents in northern Minnesota can now return home to assess damage

Residents of Minnesota’s North Shore can now return home to assess damage caused by wildfires, according to the Minnesota Incident Command System. The Stewart Trail Fire near Two Harbors is now fully contained after scorching hundreds of acres, but command system officials day crews are still working in the area.  Mattie Taylor was celebrating her birthday when she received a special gift on Tuesday: an alert that she could come home. “We got to come in yesterday for about three hours, and so we were really hopeful that we would get to come in today,” Taylor said.  Taylor and her husband pulled into their driveway to see burnt ground surrounding their property. “I’m really grateful to be back, and it’s sad to look at all this destruction. But I’m optimistic that in time, it’ll all just be more beautiful,” Taylor said.

Source: Wildfire-hit residents in northern Minnesota can now return home to assess damage – CBS Minnesota

If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!
Luke 11:13

Guarding Your Heart

Your life is moving in the direction of your heart, whether you realize it or not. What you allow in today will shape who you become tomorrow.…

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Several Twin Cities police departments considering the use of drones as first responders

Police drone with flashing lights flying above an urban area with tall buildings and a river

Several municipalities in the Twin Cities metro area are considering a program that would make drones first responders, essentially sending a camera in the sky to 911 calls ahead of police and firefighters. The Edina Police Department just concluded a two-week trial period and the Bloomington Police Department started testing drones soon after.  “[The drones] can go out there and be there before we have to put actual humans on the ground,” said Damon Bitney, Bloomington’s assistant police chief.  Bitney sees this technology as a way to keep first responders safer, while improving response times and tracking down suspects. “If we don’t have to send cars, that means that’s less cars that are going lights and sirens to calls,” Bitney said. “

It also means that if someone’s trying to hide or do something, or there’s a significant incident, that we can have, hopefully, have eyes on to see where those people might be.” While the drones are in the air responding, police officers are monitoring the camera feed and location from the station. It allows them to send out real-time information and, Bitney hopes, to deploy resources more effectively.  Sgt. Jason Behr from the Edina Police Department said speed is also a metric his officers are taking a closer look at. “When you call 911, you wanted them there five minutes ago, not 10 minutes from now,” Behr said. “If you can get somebody there faster and provide that overwatch and that insight to the officers, it just helps with public safety.”  Behr said over two weeks, the drones responded to a few dozen calls, including assault, theft and a medical emergency.  The drone program is already in place at the Minnetonka Police Department.

Since August, police there have logged over 600 flights. A spokesperson for the city said drones were first to the scene 68% of the time and police cleared 18% of calls without sending officers. The program costs about $260,000 a year to operate. The City of Minneapolis is also considering piloting a similar drone program. During a council committee meeting last week, several council members raised issues with privacy and unnecessary surveillance.  Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw is backing the pilot program and, during the meeting, praised the way drones could cut down on response times in her district. 

Source: Several Twin Cities police departments considering the use of drones as first responders – CBS Minnesota

For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body.
James 3:2

Grace, Not Perfection

God does not ask you to be flawless before coming to Him. He asks you to come as you are. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this…

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Prophesy and His Timeline

The God who created time is not controlled by time, He rules over it. Every prophecy fulfilled is proof that history is not random, but written by the hand of a…

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Watchfulness Without Fear

God never called His people to panic about the future. He called them to be awake, ready, and full of hope. “Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord…

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Minnesota governor declares peacetime emergency, activates National Guard for wildfire response

national guard soldiers on duty outdoors

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz on Sunday declared a peacetime emergency and mobilized the National Guard to help battle several major wildfires in the state. In Crow Wing County, the Flanders Fire has grown to an estimated 1,200 acres. As of Sunday morning, it is 0% contained. Another fire, several miles north of Two Harbors, has burned more than 350 acres and is 30% contained. “Unpredictable and fast-moving wildfires are putting Minnesota communities at risk,” Walz said.

“This emergency declaration ensures we can fully mobilize the resources needed to protect lives, support evacuations, and help communities respond and recover. I’m grateful to the firefighters, members of the Minnesota National Guard, and all our first responders working around the clock to keep Minnesotans safe.” Walz says the peacetime emergency will remain in effect “until emergency conditions subside” or on June 7, whichever happens first.

Source: Minnesota governor declares peacetime emergency, activates National Guard for wildfire response – CBS Minnesota

He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; He who keeps understanding will find good.
Proverbs 19:8

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Wildfires in northern Minnesota spreading to hundreds of acres

blazing fire in the forest

It’s a desperate fight— on the ground and in the air— against the spread of massive, destructive wildfires in northern Minnesota. The Flanders wildfire near Breezy Point is the largest— 1500 acres and growing, with zero containment.     “You know, it’s an incredible amount of destruction we’ve seen in the last couple of days,” says Jason Metsa, owner of Pelican Lake Resort on Norway Point. “Things are primed for the forests up here to be a tinderbox right now.” Crow Wing County officials have called for some residents to evacuate their homes; others are on standby. Meanwhile, Metsa shared several videos with KSTP, showing flames just off Nett Lake Road in rural Orr, Minnesota.

What began as a grass fire, possibly sparked off by a fallen power line— expanded to ten acres.

“We just ran into the fire, started stomping stuff out and the DNR showed up with some water,” Metsa says. “Several minutes later and we were able to scotch that one out and make sure it didn’t take off.”

“We could see it jump the road and it was climbing the trees, and it was a mile south of us,” recalls Lara Coyer.

She and her husband Ross are owners of the Cabin O’Pines resort, on the south side of Pelican Lake.

“There were forty-foot, fifty-foot balsam and pine trees that were completely engulfed,” Ross Coyer says. “That’s the critical moment. When we saw those flames, we knew it was very serious.”

The couple says they were preparing to evacuate about twenty guests, when firefighters arrived.

“That first truck if they had not turned up and got it when it went to the other side of the road and doused it straight away, we’d be having a very different conversation right now,” Lara Coyer declares.  

At the Stewart Trail fire in the Two Harbors area, there are 108 firefighters on the line.

Aircraft are dropping water and fire retardant, even as about 375 acres remain on fire, with zero containment.

“Team crews of firefighters have been working on putting in hand lines, which remove vegetation down to the soil level so the fire can’t burn across it,” explains Karen Harrison, a spokesperson for the Minnesota Incident Command System.

Source: Wildfires in northern Minnesota spreading to hundreds of acres – KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News

For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
2 Corinthians 5:21

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Wildfire burns around 100 acres in northeastern Minnesota; evacuations advised

burning bonfire with sparkles in darkness

Crews are working to put out a wildfire in Lake County that has burned around 100 acres, the Minnesota Incident Command System said Friday night. The blaze, identified by the agency as the Stewart Trail Fire, was detected on Friday afternoon near Lake County Highway 3 and Highway 61, north of Two Harbors, Minnesota. Officials said in a Facebook post at 8:27 p.m. that the fire was 0% contained and that multiple local, state and federal agencies were responding to it.  “

Firefighters are working to establish a containment line around the fire with handlines and heavy equipment, such as dozers, and are expected to remain engaged overnight as conditions permit,” the agency said in the social media post Friday. Evacuations have been advised between where the fire was first detected and Castle Danger Brewery, according to a map created by county officials. Officials said Highway 61 at Highway 2 and West Castle Danger Road in Lake County were closed Friday night due to the blaze, and Betty’s Pies, a popular restaurant in Two Harbors, posted on social media that it closed early on Friday. 

Source: Wildfire burns around 100 acres in northeastern Minnesota; evacuations advised – CBS Minnesota

Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.
John 6:27

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1 killed, 3 injured in boat crash on Lake Vermilion

aerial view of fisherman on boat

One person was killed and three others were hurt in a boat crash on a northern Minnesota lake Tuesday evening, authorities said. The crash occurred near Manbeck Island on Lake Vermilion around 6:20 p.m., according to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. Multiple people were “thrown from boats and into the water,” the sheriff’s office said. One person died at the scene. Three others were taken to a nearby hospital, and one of them was subsequently flown to Duluth, Minnesota, for further care. The sheriff’s office has not publicly identified the decedent. The crash is being investigated. This marked the second fatality on a northern Minnesota lake on Tuesday. Earlier in the day, a college student drowned after a boat capsized on Little Emily Lake, about 130 miles southwest of Lake Vermilion.

Source: 1 killed, 3 injured in boat crash on Lake Vermilion – CBS Minnesota

A good man deals graciously and lends; He will guide his affairs with discretion.
Psalm 112:5

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Visitors travel for miles to see Carley State Park’s wildflowers

blue bell flowers in close up shot

There’s a place in Wabasha County, Minnesota, where people go wild for wildflowers. Each spring, Carley State Park, one of the smallest in the state, draws thousands of flower-seeking visitors. “Bluebells are absolutely what people come to Carley to see,” said Jeremy Darst, interpretive naturalist for the park. The bluebells are nature’s handiwork, and here you’ll find clusters of them as far as the eye can see. Even among the vivid purple, pink and white wildflowers, bluebells stand out, though their time is short. It’s estimated that 50 solid acres of the park is covered in bluebells. And approximately one out of 10,000 of these wildflowers turns out to be white.

After they get pollinated, the bluebells essentially turn into seeds for next year’s bloom. As a flower, they are fleeting, which is why visitors come from across the state to see them. “I’ve been coming here since 1978 just to see the bluebells,” said Rex Lane of Rochester. Karla and Tim Kuisle and their dog Juno traveled from Northfield to catch the bloom. “We looked it up and thought, oh, it’s only an hour. Let’s go check it out,” said Tim Kuisle. Their beauty is aided by the May sun and a light breeze. It’s Mother Nature’s way of saying it’s okay to stop and smell the flowers. “This is kind of a reminder to slow down and breathe in the beauty that nature provides. I think that we get very busy and sometimes we need a reason to go out and really soak nature back in,” said Darst.

Source: Visitors travel for miles to see Carley State Park’s wildflowers – CBS Minnesota

Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, And there be no herd in the stalls— Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.
Habakkuk 3:17-18

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Red flag warning issued in central, northwestern Minnesota Friday afternoon

aerial view of wildfire in south african grassland

A red flag warning will go into effect Friday afternoon in northwestern and central Minnesota due to extreme fire risk conditions, the state’s Department of Natural Resources says. The warning is issued for 24 counties and will last from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

The impacted counties include: Becker, Benton, Cass, Chippewa, Clay, Crow Wing, Douglas, Grant, Kanabec, Kandiyohi, Lac Qui Parle, Mahnomen, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Norman, Otter Tail, Pope, Sherburne, Stearns, Stevens, Swift, Todd, Wadena and Wilkin.

The DNR says it will not issue or activate burning permits during that time, and will dissuade people from starting campfires. Residents are also encouraged to check any recent burn sites to ensure the fires are completely out. “Fine fuels, such as grass and small twigs, can dry out quickly when the relative humidity is so low and wind pick up,” said Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist. “These fine fuels can easily ignite and start a wildfire that spreads quickly.”

Source: Red flag warning issued in central, northwestern Minnesota Friday afternoon – CBS Minnesota

Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established.
Proverbs 15:22

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Two teens injured in Bloomington shooting

tall buildings in the city

Two teenagers were injured in a shooting in Bloomington, Minnesota, Monday night, police said. It happened around 10:10 p.m. on the 7900 block of Bloomington Avenue South, according to the city’s police department. Responding officers found a 16-year-old girl and a 17-year-old boy with gunshot wounds. Both were taken to a hospital. The girl was treated and released and the boy is in stable condition, police said. “This case remains an active and ongoing investigation,” the department said. “At this time, investigators have reason to believe the individuals involved are known to one another.”

Source: Two teens injured in Bloomington shooting – CBS Minnesota

Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.
Psalm 119:105

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Minneapolis City Council unanimously passes gun control ordinance

guns on a table

The Minneapolis City Council unanimously passed a gun control ordinance on Thursday, which includes a ban on assault-style weapons, large-capacity magazines, ghost guns and would restrict firearms in some public places.  The measure’s future is unclear, however, because state preemption laws prevent cities from creating their own gun ordinances. A spokesperson for Mayor Jacob Frey says he is supportive, and the ordinance now heads to his desk. The City Council heard from the public about the measure earlier this week.  “Weapons of war do not belong in our neighborhoods.

minneapolis community and technical college on street in minneapolis
Photo by Tom Asito on Pexels.com

And today, Minneapolis is saying: enough,” said Council member Aurin Chowdhury, the ordinance’s lead author. “This harm has touched every corner of our city – from the north side to the south side. With this action, we say to every impacted community member: we stand with you in your grief, and we will do everything in our power to end this violence.” Earlier this week, Minnesota state senators passed a gun control bill along party lines, though it’s unlikely the legislation would pass the divided Minnesota House. The St. Paul City Council passed a similar ordinance last fall. Soon after passage, the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus challenged the capital city in court. Rob Doar, general counsel for the caucus, said they’re still in litigation.  As for Minneapolis, Doar said he would be watching the final language of the ordinance closely and expects to file a lawsuit.  “We have a significant number of members who are in Minneapolis who would be affected by this ordinance, and there seems to be a disconnect about ability to enforce versus ability to pass,” Doar said. “The state statute doesn’t preempt enforcement; it preempts their authority to even pass this ordinance.”

Source: Minneapolis City Council unanimously passes gun control ordinance – CBS Minnesota

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
John 14:6

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Cougar reproduction noted in Minnesota for first time in modern era

tender moment between cougar and cub

Researchers with the Voyageurs Wolf Project made a historic finding this spring on a different species of large carnivore – they captured the first modern-era evidence of cougar reproduction in Minnesota. As part of its study on white-tailed deer survival and mortality in northern Minnesota, on March 25, 2026 VWP staff placed trail cameras near a deer that had recently been killed and covered with leaves. The “caching” behavior is common among large wildcats, which come back to feed at the site. The researchers were able to find the deer carcass via signals from a GPS collar they placed on the animal in January. The researchers suspected the kill was made by a bobcat, the most common large feline in the region, but also knew there was a chance it was from a cougar, said Thomas Gable, VWP leader. To find out VWP staff placed two trail cameras at the site.

Source: Cougar reproduction noted in Minnesota for first time in modern era

And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.
1 John 4:16

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