LOCAL
Federal shutdown being monitored; children’s aid a main concern
Social services and health care for youth required some of the County Board’s time last week as contracts and planning for some innovative programs came to the commissioners’ attention.
Battery storage project environmental assessment complete, hearing Oct. 28
The proposed battery storage facility associated with the North Star solar array, in the south end of North Branch, is inching along and is at the early stages of permit review. There will be a public meeting in person and an on-line meeting later this month.
Fire Prevention open houses
This Saturday Center City Fire and Lindstrom Fire departments are holding their annual Fire Prevention Open Houses. This is our chance to stop in and say thanks to the men and women who voluntarily give their time risking their lives to save our homes and businesses. I am friends with …
Staying in the fall mood with great foods
In a medium saucepan, melt 1 stick of the butter over medium heat. Let it cook and bubble until the foam and butter underneath are golden brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Immediately transfer it to a stand mixer bowl and swirl a few times to help stop the browning. Let …
Chisago City events Falloween and haunted trail re-imagined this year
With about two decades of Halloween season community events under their belt— the Chisago City Parks Board, city staff and volunteers have decided now is a good time for giving a total reboot to the October community events.
Warner sentenced to over 20 years on three cold cases
A 46-year-old area man was sentenced this week by District Court Judge Catherine Trevino. Donald Edmond Warner, most recently of Lindstrom and North Branch, will serve over 20 years in prison for first degree, and two attempted, sexual assaults on young women.
North Branch Homecoming Royalty
The North Branch student body chose their 2025 Homecoming King and Queen Friday September 26 and students enjoyed a few days this week of related festivities. Allen Everett and Jade Knoespel are the King and Queen, above. The big game is Friday, October 3 at 6 p.m. where the Vikings …
Watershed District 2026 preliminary levy set
The managers on the Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District Board voted 5-0 last week to set a preliminary levy hike for 2026 of 23 percent. There were about a half-dozen taxpayers attending this meeting in Forest Lake. An additional levy session will be scheduled for October to continue public input …
North Branch council ups firefighter payout and sets early levy
The main discussion topic on the North Branch City Council agenda last week was the 2026 preliminary budget and levy action — but it took an hour and a half just to get there.
School on the move
The relocation of the historic Sunrise Schoolhouse last week, from its site north of Highway 95 in the Town of Sunrise, traveled east to the Almelund Threshing Show grounds under ideal weather conditions. The move along Highway 95 was observed by many.
