Lt. Gov. Flanagan (DFL) and Tafoya (R) Debate

Republican Michele Tafoya and DFL Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan traded sharp criticism during their only scheduled debate in Minnesota’s U.S. Senate race on MPR News.

Tafoya criticized Flanagan over state fraud, while Flanagan attacked Tafoya’s support for President Donald Trump. Both candidates also opposed Trump’s proposal to work with Russia on diesel fuel, arguing it would do little to lower prices and benefit Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Despite receiving the President’s endorsement, Tafoya disagreed with Trump’s proposal:

Flanagan went on to criticize the President’s increasingly close relationship with Vladimir Putin:

Both women are running to fill the Senate seat being left open by Democratic Senator Tina Smith. Election Day is November 3.

City of Warroad Plans to Add Springsteel to Municipal Utilities

By Mani Souphom – R & J Broadcasting, Inc. | Saturday, October 17, 2026

WARROAD, Minn. — The City of Warroad expects to connect Springsteel to its municipal utility system in 2027, following a bidding process planned for this winter and spring, according to city officials.

A contract signed three to four years ago established fees Springsteel will pay, including monthly charges based on the number of service connections and sewer fees based on water usage. Springsteel will continue using its well for water while preparations for the connection move forward.

City Councilman Kevin Thompson spoke in more detail about how the utility system will work between the City of Warroad and residents of Springsteel, as well as any impact city residents might notice:

Thompson also discussed some of the benefits of the partnership and utility sharing:

Officials said existing wastewater lagoons should be able to handle the load in the meantime. Springsteel is expected to generate more wastewater during summer months, while winter demand will be lower, comparable to an apartment complex or hotel. KQ92 and KRWB will continue to follow Warroad City Council Meetings.

National Forest Products Week Oct. 18 – Oct. 24

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is recognizing National Forest Products Week, October 18th through the 24th, highlighting the economic and environmental benefits of sustainably managed forests.

The DNR says Minnesota’s forest products industry generates more than 25 billion dollars in economic output and supports over 72,000 jobs statewide. Sustainable forestry also helps maintain healthy forests, protect wildlife habitat and provide renewable materials for products like lumber, paper and bioenergy.

For more information, visit the Minnesota DNR’s website at dnr.state.mn.us.