FOREST LAKE, Minn. (FOX 9) - Dylan Simmons has been found guilty of unintentional homicide, criminal vehicular homicide and three counts of second-degree assault for running a teen girl over in Forest Lake after a fight during the summer of 2023.

Deadly fight in Forest Lake

What we know: Simmons faced several charges in the death of 17-year-old Darisha Bailey Vath in July 2023.

Police were told by witnesses that the incident started with a fight between two groups, some armed with a knife, baseball bats, hammers, and a crowbar.

After the fight "de-escalated", some witnesses told police that Simmons and another man climbed into a white Mazda sedan and drove towards a group of people twice, striking Vath on his second attempt.

Bailey was hit on the passenger side of the vehicle and run over by both sets of tires, charges alleged.

Dylan Simmons charged

Dig deeper: Initially charged with third-degree intentional homicide, Washington County prosecutors added charges against Simmons the following August, after new evidence from surveillance cameras provided the basis for a more serious charge of second-degree intentional homicide.

Three counts of second-degree assault were also added to the case against Simmons.

A sentencing date is set for March 20, 2025.

Contentious courtroom during trial

The other side: On Dec. 11, tensions boiled over outside the courtroom as testimony got underway in the trial, leaving one person banned following the melee.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - It's the largest snowfall of the season so far in the Twin Cities, and the snow is making for tricky driving conditions across the metro on Thursday.

A winter storm warning is in effect Thursday, with widespread 3-6 inches of snow accumulations possible along or near the Interstate 94 corridor by the time everything is done. 

Watch live: FOX 9 is live with the latest on the snow. Watch live in the player above.

Dig Deeper: 

• Snow totals so far
• Minnesota school closings for Dec. 19, 2024
• Timeline of what to expect with Thursday's snow
• Ground stop lifted at MSP Airport

Minnesota road conditions: Spinouts, crashes and backups

What we know: Snow fell through the morning commute, which made travel a bit difficult. Remember to drive with caution and give yourself extra travel time as crews work to clear the roadways. 

It was slow-going on Minnesota roadways, with average speeds around 20 to 30 mph for much of the morning. Slippery road conditions took some drivers by surprise, while some roads were snow covered, so it was difficult to see where the lanes were. 

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, from midnight to 8:30 a.m., there were 91 property damage crashes, nine injury crashes, 28 vehicles off the road, four spinouts and five jackknifed semi-trucks on Minnesota roads. 

The Minnesota Department of Transportation's website lists most roads in the Twin Cities as being snow-covered.  Here's a map of road conditions as of 8 a.m. Thursday: 

MSP Airport: Delays due to snow, ice

What we know: A ground stop has been lifted after being issued at MSP Airport until 10:15 a.m., with FAA now saying there is just a departure delay with an average of 30 minutes. 

This comes after a ground delay was issued due to snow and ice, according to the FAA's website. The ground delay was in effect until at 9:59 a.m. A ground stop was previously issued for the airport, but expired at 7:30 a.m. 

During the ground delay Thursday morning, the FAA's website said departures at the airport are delayed an average of 62 minutes. 

According to MSP Airport's website, one departure has been canceled, and 39 departures have been delayed as of10:19 a.m. Meanwhile, four arrivals have been canceled and 36 have been delayed. 

Rochester International Airport in southern Minnesota was closed Thursday morning, but reopened at 7:30 a.m.

What to expect with Thursday's snow

Timeline: Here's what to expect with Thursday's snow across the Twin Cities:

• Thursday morning: Light to moderate snow will make for tricky road conditions for the morning commute; 2-4+ inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday afternoon: Lighter snow as flakes become more off and on, with some gusty breezes; another 1-2 inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday evening: Scattered flurries will taper as the snow moves out of the region. There may be some blowing and drifting snow; a dusting of snow is possible.

Snow accumulations are forecast to be in the 3-6 inch range around the Interstate 94 corridor. Farther south and north of the corridor will see snow totals in the 1- to 3- inch range. 

Here's the snow potential map: 

The high on Thursday will be around 26 degrees in the Twin Cities, but then it turns colder. The high on Friday will be in the teens, but it will feel more like single-digits. 

Snow totals in Minnesota

By the numbers: Thursday's snow is officially the largest snow of the season for the Twin Cities (we haven't gotten more than an inch in a single storm yet this season). 

Here are the snow totals so far (note: It is still actively snowing, so snow totals are likely higher than what is listed below. These numbers will be updated):

• Blakely: 6.5 inches as of 9 a.m.
• Rochester: 5.5 inches as of 10 a.m.
• Carver: 5.3 inches as of 8:30 a.m.
• New Prague: 5 inches as of 8:45 a.m.
• Montgomery: 5 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Richfield: 5.2 inches as of 8:30 a.m.
• Savage: 5 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Northfield: 4.9 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Cannon Falls: 4.9 inches as of 8 a.m.
• Elko New Market: 4.8 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Lake City: 4.8 inches as of 9:35 a.m.
• Credit River: 4.6 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Bloomington: 4.4 inches as of 10:14 a.m.
• Faribault: 4.3 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Excelsior: 4.2 inches as of 8:30 a.m.
• Minnetonka: 4 inches as of 8 a.m.
• Independence: 3.8 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Edina: 3.7 as of 7 a.m.
• Minneapolis: 3.7 inches as of 7:30 a.m.
• Eden Prairie: 3.5 inches as of 7:30 a.m.
• Zumbro Falls: 3 inches as of 7:10 a.m.
• Prior Lake: 3.2 inches as of 7 a.m.
• MSP Airport: 2 inches through 6 a.m.

Track the snow in Minnesota

What you can do: To get the latest updates and track the snowy weather, you can download the FOX 9 Weather app.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - A judge has found Myon Burrell, the man freed from a life sentence for the death of a Minneapolis child in 2022, guilty in a new gun case following an arrest in Robbinsdale last year.

Background

In August 2023, Burrell was stopped by Robbinsdale police for speeding and erratic driving.

When the officer approached the vehicle, they said smoke was coming out of the window and the officer suspected "active drug use" inside the car.

The complaint said Burrell attempted to walk away from the scene and fought with officers when asked to step out of the vehicle. After getting a search warrant, officers found a handgun in the center console of the vehicle.

Even though he had been freed from prison, Burrell had not been pardoned and wasn't allowed to own a gun as a convicted felon, police said.

Also in the vehicle, officers found pills that later tested positive for MDMA.

After the 2023 arrest, Burrell was arrested a second time last May. Burrell was also charged with drug possession in that case.

What's new

Last Friday, a judge issued a ruling finding Burrell guilty on both counts in the case: possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance.

In a statement to FOX 9, Burrell's attorney wrote: "The stipulated facts trial will allow us to get to the central issue of the case: the validity of the initial traffic stop and the expansion of that stop by the officer. Putting that constitutional question in the hands of the court of appeals has been our focus since early on in the case."

Previous conviction

Burrell was sentenced to life behind bars for the death of 11-year-old Tyesha Edwards in 2002.

Police said Burrell attempted to fire a shot at a rival gang member but the bullet instead went into Edwards' home and hit her as she was sitting at her table doing homework.

Burrell was freed from prison in 2022 after his sentence was commuted by a decision from Gov. Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison. Walz and Ellison decided a life sentence was too stiff of a punishment for a teen offender. Burrell was 17 years old when Edwards was killed.

Burrell has maintained his innocence in the case, despite being convicted twice after his first conviction was overturned due to a Miranda warning failure by police. Advocates for Burrell had also argued that the case against Burrell wasn't strong, with no hard evidence or witnesses connecting Burrell to the shooting. An Associated Press investigation also found police failed to investigate Burrell's alibi that he was at a convenience store when the shooting happened.

Burrell's co-defendant, Ike Tyson, also reportedly took the blame for firing the shot.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Thursday marked the largest snow of the season for the Twin Cities so far. Here's how much snow we've picked up: 

Minnesota snow totals

By the numbers: Here are the snow totals so far (note: It is still actively snowing, so snow totals are likely higher than what is listed below. These numbers will be updated):

• Blakely: 6.5 inches as of 9 a.m.
• Rochester: 5.5 inches as of 10 a.m.
• Carver: 5.3 inches as of 8:30 a.m.
• New Prague: 5 inches as of 8:45 a.m.
• Montgomery: 5 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Richfield: 5.2 inches as of 8:30 a.m.
• Savage: 5 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Northfield: 4.9 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Cannon Falls: 4.9 inches as of 8 a.m.
• Elko New Market: 4.8 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Lake City: 4.8 inches as of 9:35 a.m.
• Credit River: 4.6 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Bloomington: 4.4 inches as of 10:14 a.m.
• Faribault: 4.3 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Excelsior: 4.2 inches as of 8:30 a.m.
• Minnetonka: 4 inches as of 8 a.m.
• Independence: 3.8 inches as of 7 a.m.
• Edina: 3.7 as of 7 a.m.
• Minneapolis: 3.7 inches as of 7:30 a.m.
• Eden Prairie: 3.5 inches as of 7:30 a.m.
• Zumbro Falls: 3 inches as of 7:10 a.m.
• Prior Lake: 3.2 inches as of 7 a.m.
• MSP Airport: 2 inches through 6 a.m.

Thursday's snow is officially the largest snow of the season for the Twin Cities (we haven't gotten more than an inch in a single storm yet this season). 

What to expect with Thursday's snow

Timeline: Here's what to expect with Thursday's snow across the Twin Cities:

• Thursday morning: Light to moderate snow will make for tricky road conditions for the morning commute; 2-4+ inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday afternoon: Lighter snow as flakes become more off and on, with some gusty breezes; another 1-2 inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday evening: Scattered flurries will taper as the snow moves out of the region. There may be some blowing and drifting snow; a dusting of snow is possible.

Snow accumulations are forecast to be in the 3-6 inch range around the Interstate 94 corridor. Farther south and north of the corridor will see snow totals in the 1- to 3- inch range. 

Here's the snow potential map: 

The high on Thursday will be around 26 degrees in the Twin Cities, but then it turns colder. The high on Friday will be in the teens, but it will feel more like single-digits. 

Track the snow in Minnesota

What you can do: To get the latest updates and track the snowy weather, you can download the FOX 9 Weather app.

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (FOX 9) - Officials with the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) are expecting a boost in passengers through the final holiday stretch of 2024.

Increased travel

By the numbers: The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) says it expects a 6% year-over-year increase in screened passengers between Dec. 20 and Jan. 6, 2025. The 18-day stretch spans across the major holidays of Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Thursday, Dec. 26, is expected to be the busiest day during the period, with nearly 50,000 people expected to clear Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints.

Friday, Dec. 20, is expected to be the busiest day ahead of Christmas, with 45,000 people expected to be screened.

Broken records

What to know: Earlier this year, the TSA announced the Sunday after Thanksgiving was the busiest nationwide travel day on record.

On Dec. 1, nearly 3.1 million people were screened at airports across the U.S., surpassing the previous record set in July by nearly 74,000 passengers.

The busiest travel day at MSP Airport so far this year was on Oct. 17, with 56,550 people getting screened, according to airport officials.

Travel tips

What they’re saying: The TSA is offering helpful tips and reminders for travelers ahead of arriving at the airport.

Weather delays

Local perspective: In addition to increased passengers, expected travelers are encouraged to keep an eye on weather conditions – as winter weather conditions can cause delays and ground stoppages.

Pre-book security screenings

What you can do: To help travelers with security checkpoint lines, officials announced the launch of MSP RESERVE in September, which allows passengers to book appointments for free online as early as one week ahead of a flight.

To make a reservation, travelers must enter flight details and the number of people in their traveling party. Travelers then select from a list of available times to finish the booking. 

Travelers are then instructed to access a designated security checkpoint lane for MSP RESERVE passengers. Staff will then scan the traveler's QR code before allowing them to enter the separate security line.

Travelers can find the Terminal 1 MSP RESERVE line at the North Checkpoint.

Terminal 2 expansion

What's next: In August, the MAC started construction on a 168,000-square-foot expansion of Terminal 2 within MSP.

The $263 million project will add two airline gates and increase spacing and passenger seating for gates H13 and H14. The expansion includes new restrooms, concession spaces, and additional support areas for airlines and tenants.

MSP received a $20 million federal grant for the project from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Terminals Program, and the project is slated for completion in 2027.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The largest snowfall of the season so far in the Twin Cities has led to numerous crashes on roadways in the metro and across Minnesota on Thursday. 

Crashes on Minnesota roads 

By the numbers: The Minnesota State Patrol reported 91 crashes across Minnesota from midnight to 8:30 a.m. on Thursday. Additionally, there were nine injury crashes, 28 vehicles off the road, five jackknifed semis and four spinouts. 

In an incident in Brooklyn Center, a bus slid off the road near Highway 100 and 57th Avenue. It's unclear if there were any passengers on board or if there were any injuries.

Around 9:15 a.m., Shakopee officials posted on Facebook advising drivers to avoid northbound Highway 169 near the Canterbury Road entrance because multiple cars and semitrucks are in the ditch along the left lane.

With less than ideal driving conditions, drivers should remember to slow down, plan for traffic delays, be patient with snowplows, turn on your headlights, wear your seatbelt and put the distractions away, according to the State Patrol. 

Minnesota road conditions

What we know: Snow will continue to fall through the morning commute, which has been making travel a bit difficult. 

It's slow-going on Minnesota roadways, with average speeds around 20 to 30 mph. Slippery road conditions are taking some drivers by surprise, while some roads are snow covered, so it's difficult to see where the lanes are. 

The Minnesota Department of Transportation's website lists most roads in the Twin Cities as being snow-covered on Thursday morning. Here's a map of the road conditions as of 9:30 a.m. Thursday:

What to expect with Thursday's snow

Timeline: Here's what to expect with Thursday's snow across the Twin Cities:

• Thursday morning: Light to moderate snow will make for tricky road conditions for the morning commute; 2-4+ inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday afternoon: Lighter snow as flakes become more off and on, with some gusty breezes; another 1-2 inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday evening: Scattered flurries will taper as the snow moves out of the region. There may be some blowing and drifting snow; a dusting of snow is possible.

Snow accumulations are forecast to be in the 3-6 inch range around the Interstate 94 corridor. Farther south and north of the corridor will see snow totals in the 1- to 3- inch range. 

Here's the snow potential map: 

The high on Thursday will be around 26 degrees in the Twin Cities, but then it turns colder. The high on Friday will be in the teens, but it will feel more like single-digits. 

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - A ground stop has been lifted at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) on Thursday due to snow and ice. 

Delays at MSP Airport

What we know: A ground stop has been lifted after being issued at MSP Airport until 10:15 a.m., with FAA now saying there is just a departure delay with an average of 30 minutes. 

This comes after a ground delay was issued due to snow and ice, according to the FAA's website. The ground delay was in effect until at 9:59 a.m. A ground stop was previously issued for the airport, but expired at 7:30 a.m. 

READ MORE: LIVE UPDATES: Snow making for messy morning commute in MN

During the ground delay Thursday morning, the FAA's website said departures at the airport are delayed an average of 62 minutes. 

According to MSP Airport's website, one departure has been canceled, and 39 departures have been delayed as of10:19 a.m. Meanwhile, four arrivals have been canceled and 36 have been delayed. 

Rochester International Airport in southern Minnesota was closed Thursday morning, but reopened at 7:30 a.m.

What to expect with Thursday's snow

Timeline: Here's what to expect with Thursday's snow across the Twin Cities:

• Thursday morning: Light to moderate snow will make for tricky road conditions for the morning commute; 2-4+ inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday afternoon: Lighter snow as flakes become more off and on, with some gusty breezes; another 1-2 inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday evening: Scattered flurries will taper as the snow moves out of the region. There may be some blowing and drifting snow; a dusting of snow is possible.

Snow accumulations are forecast to be in the 3-6 inch range around the Interstate 94 corridor. Farther south and north of the corridor will see snow totals in the 1- to 3- inch range. 

Here's the snow potential map: 

The high on Thursday will be around 26 degrees in the Twin Cities, but then it turns colder. The high on Friday will be in the teens, but it will feel more like single-digits. 

BARRON COUNTY, WIS. - Wisconsin health officials believe they have detected the first human case of bird flu in the state this year.

What we know

The latest: The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) said it detected "the first presumptive positive human case" of bird flu in Barron County, Wisconsin.

The person believed to be infected with bird flu, also known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), reportedly had exposure to an infected flock.

Officials say the case was identified through testing done by the Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene, but confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is still pending.

Both Barron County and state health services are monitoring farmworkers who may have been exposed to the virus, according to a news release from Wisconsin DHS.

Anyone who works with infected birds, poultry or cows, or has recreational exposure to them, is at a higher risk of being infected. 

Background

Previous reporting: Other bird flu outbreaks were reported throughout the region earlier in the year, including in a Benton County dairy farm herd.

READ MORE: Bird flu detected in Benton County dairy cows

Earlier this month, the USDA ordered testing of the nation's entire milk supply to combat the spread of bird flu in cows. 

READ MORE: USDA orders testing of entire milk supply nationwide for bird flu

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The first accumulating snow event for the Twin Cities metro of the year is happening on Thursday, with the Winter Storm Warning expected to make the morning commute a little dicey across Minnesota and Wisconsin. 

Minnesota school closing list

What we know: Here are the current school closings. If you're having trouble viewing the list below, please click here. 

Timeline of the snow

Timeline: Here's what to expect with Thursday's snow across the Twin Cities:

• Thursday morning: Light to moderate snow will make for tricky road conditions for the morning commute; 2-4+ inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday afternoon: Lighter snow as flakes become more off and on, with some gusty breezes; another 1-2 inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday evening: Scattered flurries will taper as the snow moves out of the region. There may be some blowing and drifting snow; a dusting of snow is possible.

Track the snow

What you can do: To get the latest updates and track the snowy weather, you can download the FOX 9 Weather app.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - You may not need as much rock salt to melt icy driveways and sidewalks as you think — and using too much is having some ill effects on the environment.

How much salt is needed?

What to know: The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) recommends that just a coffee mug’s worth of salt, around 12 ounces, should be enough to de-ice an entire driveway or 10 sidewalk squares. Focus on applying the salt evenly and only on essential areas, rather than covering an entire surface. 

The more snow and ice you can remove ahead of time, the less salt is needed to be effective. If you notice leftover salt, you should probably use less the next time around.

Any leftover salt on dry surfaces can be swept up and reused. The MPCA explains that excess salt left on the sidewalks and roads serves no purpose and gets washed into the local waterways. 

Salt impact on MN waterways 

The big picture: Unfortunately, the safety measure also puts fresh water at risk of collecting chloride, which is a permanent pollutant.

Scientists say just one teaspoon of salt or ice melt is enough to pollute five gallons of fresh water. But Minnesota agencies spread 445,000 tons — or about 255 billion teaspoons — on our roads every year.

Once the snow melts, the salt finds its way into lakes, rivers, streams and groundwater, where it can pose a serious threat to freshwater fish and other wildlife. Some waterways have accumulated such high levels of chloride they have been added to the impaired waters list. 

One of the easiest ways to protect fresh water is to not use too much salt or ice melt. The MPCA says your best bet is shoveling first and using sand or grit on top of compacted snow to create traction.

Keeping Minnesota roads safe

Dig deeper: The MPCA trains public works departments across the state to do ice prevention by using brine – a combination of salt and water, which drastically cuts down on the need for salt.

"They've been able to reduce their salt use anywhere from 30 to 70% and still maintain safe conditions for the public," Brooke Asleson, a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) chloride specialist previously told FOX 9. 

Golden Valley crews previously told FOX 9 they’ve gotten the MPCA training and invested in technology giving them road temperatures and other data to help reduce the amount of chemicals they use while still keeping the roads safe.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The Twin Cities area is set to see its first significant snowfall this winter as a system moves into the state on Thursday.

Minnesota snow expected

THE LATEST: Snow making for tricky driving on Thursday

What we know: A strong clipper will move out of the Dakotas and across Minnesota overnight through Thursday evening with a narrow swath of heavy snow along the I-94 corridor including the Twin Cities.

LIST: Minnesota school closings for Dec. 19, 2024

This will be a high impact snow event for the Thursday morning commute that lingers into Thursday afternoon with the largest snowstorm of the season for the Twin Cities so far. 

Get those shovels ready and pack your patience for driving on Thursday. 

Timeline of the snow

Timeline: Here's what to expect with Thursday's snow across the Twin Cities:

• Thursday morning: Light to moderate snow will make for tricky road conditions for the morning commute; 2-4+ inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday afternoon: Lighter snow as flakes become more off and on, with some gusty breezes; another 1-2 inches of snow is possible.
• Thursday evening: Scattered flurries will taper as the snow moves out of the region. There may be some blowing and drifting snow; a dusting of snow is possible.

Track the snow

What you can do: To get the latest updates and track the snowy weather, you can download the FOX 9 Weather app.

WAYZATA, Minn. (FOX 9) - Wayzata school board members voted to approve a plan to again change its attendance boundaries during a meeting on Wednesday, despite some criticism from parents.

Wayzata attendance boundaries changes

Background: The changes to the district attendance boundaries are the third change in the past ten years.

The district blames enrollment growth for the changes, with more growth expected down the line.

The district currently serves about 13,000 K-12 students.

Changes approved in Wayzata

What do we know: During the meeting on Wednesday night, the board voted to move its final concept plan, moving boundaries starting in 2025-26 school year.

The board says the changes account for growth projections over the next three to five years, mainly in the north part of the district.

Under the recommendation, about 500 elementary students will be impacted in the adjustment.

Dig deeper: You can click here to view the changes to the boundaries under Concept 9.

Reaction to plan

What they're saying: Some parents shared concern about student impact and a lack of a longer-term plan.

District leadership acknowledged the problems families face with the change but pointed to their efforts to maintain continuity.

COTTAGE GROVE, Minn. - Growing up, Lauren Rowe always knew she wanted to help people. At 22 years old, she's already off to a good start.

"Emotionally, its kind of all over the place. Kind of exciting that my training kicked in when it did. Emotional and sad the fact that what happened, happened," said Rowe.

Rowe was buying some energy drinks at the Holiday Station Store on Hadley Avenue in Cottage Grove in March of last year, when another customer had a heart attack ane collapsed right next to her.

Rowe performed CPR on the 64-year-old until a sheriff's deputy arrived and started to use a portable defibrillator on him.

But Rowe recognized the electrode pads were in the wrong place and corrected them, before the deputy shocked the man twice and paramedics arrived to take him to the hospital.

"I was just focused on doing the compressions properly and people were standing away when the shocks were happening or anything like that," said Rowe.

Rowe is a former explorer with the Cottage Grove Police Department and just graduated from Rasmussen University with a degree in law enforcement.

She says she was trained on how to use an AED as part of her education to become a police officer, but paramedics say her quick thinking helped save the customer's life.

"She set that patient up to have an outcome that allowed him to walk out of the hospital," said Capt. James Olson of the Cottage Grove Fire Department.

For her actions that night, Rowe received a life-saving award before Wednesday night's city council meeting.

But she is just grateful she was in the right place at the right time and was able to put her training to good use.

"Definitely something to put in the memories and something to put in the books, because not everybody gets to do what I did and has the opportunity to do what I did," said Rowe.

(FOX 9) - Minnesota has lost hundreds of pharmacies in a little over a decade, creating "pharmacy deserts" that are forcing people to travel a lot farther or rely on mail service to obtain their prescription medications.

Prescription Benefit Managers under growing scrutiny

Why You Should Care: Minnesota has lost hundreds of pharmacies in a little over a decade, creating "pharmacy deserts" that are forcing people to travel a lot further or rely on mail service to obtain their prescription medications.

Local Perspective:  Pharmacists like Debroah Keaveny, who owns and operates Keaveny Drug in Winsted, says independent pharmacies are being driven out of business by Prescription Benefit Managers (PBMs). PBMs are supposed to operate as a middleman that negotiate prices with insurance providers and drug manufacturers. But now PBMs are under the same ownership umbrella as large insurance companies and pharmacy chains. Express Scripts, CVS Caremark and Minnesota-based Optum control pricing for about 80 percent of prescriptions filled in the U.S, according to federal regulators. Optum is in an ownership chain with United Healthcare, CVS Caremark with Aetna and Express Scripts with Cigna.

"The big three control who I can fill prescriptions for, what prescription I can fill, how often I can fill them and what I’m going to get paid for it," Keaveny said.

Keaveny has joined a class action lawsuit against PBMs and is advocating for new legislation at the state and federal level. She is also partnering with Mark Cuban on a project designed to lower the cost of prescription drugs.

Dig Deeper: State and federal regulators are also pointing the finger at PBMs.

In July, the Federal Trade Commission found "these powerful middlemen may be inflating drug costs" and "squeezing main street pharmacies." 

The report finds states: "PBMs wield enormous power over patients’ ability to access and afford their prescription drugs, allowing PBMs to significantly influence what drugs are available and at what price. This can have dire consequences, with nearly 30 percent of Americans surveyed reporting rationing or even skipping doses of their prescribed medicines due to high costs, the report states.

The interim report also finds that PBMs hold substantial influence over independent pharmacies by imposing unfair, arbitrary, and harmful contractual terms that can impact independent pharmacies’ ability to stay in business and serve their communities."

The federal investigation also found PBMs exert substantial influence over independent pharmacies that find the contractual terms "confusing, unfair arbitrary and harmful."

The FTC report, legal action and statements:

• FTC lawsuit
• FTC staff report on PBMs

Pharmacy Deserts in Minnesota

In some cases, the largest benefit managers were accused of giving "higher reimbursement rates" to their own pharmacies.

"In the beginning (PBMs) were kind of a middleman between pharmacies and the insurance companies," said Deborah Leedahl, who recently closed her pharmacy in Elk River. "But things started to change when insurance companies started to buy out the PBMs."

By the Numbers: Minnesota had 406 independent pharmacies in 2012. That number has been whittled down to just 156 today.

What we know: In Minnesota, it is illegal for a PBM to require a patient to use a pharmacy that it owns. CVS Caremark was fined $1.5 million in 2022 for requiring members to use their own pharmacies to get maintenance drugs for conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.

The Minnesota Department of Commerce said it contributed to the growing number of "pharmacy deserts" across the state.

"In some cases, those members had to drive 20 to 130 miles to get to a CVS store rather than refill a medication at a non-CVS pharmacy," said Jaqueline Olson, the Assistant Commissioner of Enforcement at the Department of Commerce.

CVS Caremark settled the case for $500,000.

The other side: The companies that operate PBMs defended their role in drug pricing. CVS Caremark, Express Scripts or Optum would not agree to an interview for this story.

In statements, they all argued that  PBMs lower prices for customers while reimbursing pharmacies at higher rates.

CVS Caremark statement: "The FTC was created to protect consumers. Any suggestions from the FTC about policies that limit the use of PBM negotiating tools would instead reward the pharmaceutical industry, leaving American businesses and patients at the mercy of the prices drugmakers set. We will defend the use of these tools vigorously as we continue working to safeguard our clients and their members from drug price gouging by pharmaceutical manufacturers."

Express Scripts statement: "The FTC has taken unconstitutional actions in publishing a report that ignores the evidence provided by our company and other PBMs, demonstrates clear ideological bias and advances a false and damaging narrative – a narrative that could harm the health care system by removing essential checks and balances which would result in higher drug prices for American consumers," said Andrea Nelson, Chief Legal Officer for The Cigna Group. "We don’t take this step lightly, but as advocates working to lower drug prices for millions of Americans and the employers, labor unions, and government agencies that provide their prescription drug benefits, we cannot let the FTC’s unlawful actions and false information stand."

Optum statement:  "PBMs, like Optum Rx, are the key counterweight to pharmaceutical companies’ otherwise unchecked monopoly power to set and raise drug prices, and the money we are saving the employers, unions, governments and payers who rely on us to negotiate savings is helping consumers through reduced premiums, point-of-sale discounts on medicines and greater investment in population health and wellness programs."

Optum is a subsidiary of UnitedHealth. The Minnesota based company’s profits and policies came under scrutiny after the killing of Brian Thompson. Thompson was the CEO of United Healthcare. His tragic death led to murder charges and questions about the shooters’ motivation. But it also sparked outrage online over the company’s denial rates.

What’s next: Federal regulators say PBMs' lack transparency. A bipartisan bill to add more transparency was passed in the US House one year ago, in December 2023.  And Senator Klobuchar did vote to advance this bill out of committee in the Senate, but it has not reached the Senate floor.

We asked Deb Keaveny what happens to her customers if she closes her doors.

"They have to find another place to go. 20-plus miles or go to mail order and mail order isn’t always convenient," she says. "If you have an infection or pain, you can’t wait three weeks to get a prescription filled and who is going to explain it to you, the mailman?" she added.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) - A satanic holiday display set up at the Minnesota State Capitol was vandalized as critics speak out against the controversial display.

Satanic display at Minnesota capitol: How it happened

The backstory: Minnesota Satanists set up a holiday display inside the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Dec. 13.

The display, which features a phoenix constructed from paper, a hanging pentagram and several small cranes, is located across the hall from the Capitol’s Christmas tree.

The organization, which is a nonprofit that "venerate[s] the literary figure of Satan," secured a permit for the display from the Minnesota Department of Administration.

Minnesota Satanists point out that they do not believe in or worship Satan.

The display was knocked over and vandalized on Tuesday, the group said.

What they're saying

What they're saying: The display drew swift criticism from Republican lawmakers, who said the display was offensive, especially around the holidays.

In a post on X Sunday, Rep. Tom Emmer shared photos of the display and asked: "Is there anything Tim Walz won’t do to insult Minnesotans?"

"The message that they’re sending is, quite literally, to hell with the sacred," said State Rep. Walter Hudson of Albertville. "You have an intentionally profane display very obviously intended to thumb a nose at those of us who are celebrating our holiest days."

In a statement on Wednesday, Gov. Tim Walz’ office said, in part: "The governor does not agree with the display and did not approve it. But the First Amendment means that he does not police speech in the State Capitol."

What Minnesota Satanists are saying

Minnesota Satanists, which declined a request for an interview Wednesday, sent a statement that said, in part: "Our goal was representation, bringing joy and beauty to the community as well as utilizing our First Amendment right. We chose the State Capitol because we wanted to utilize a location that allows for religious plurality…."

What's next?: The display will remain at the State Capitol through Dec. 27.

EAGAN, Minn. (FOX 9) - The Minnesota Vikings are 12-2, have won seven straight and have an inside track to the NFC North Division title.

There hasn’t been a ton of national chatter about the team most of the season, and that’s just fine with them. But there is starting to be some talk about Kevin O’Connell for the NFL’s Coach of the Year Award. He’s a favorite, along with Dan Campbell. Dan Quinn, Andy Reid, Jim Harbaugh and Mike Tomlin are also in the mix.

‘He does a great job empowering players’

What players are saying: Garrett Bradbury, Sam Darnold and Aaron Jones were among players asked about O’Connell and what makes him effective with this team. O’Connell was 13-4 in his first season and won the NFC North, they were 7-10 last year and are 12-2 this year. That’s 32-17, including the playoff loss to the Giants.

Bradbury: "I’m sure KO would tell you he’s not worried about those accolades or anything, that stuff will come. He does a great job empowering the players. Call it positivity, call it whatever you want, but he instills confidence in each position group, in each player. I love playing for him."

Jones: "He brings us together as a family. This is probably the closest team I’ve ever been a part of, and this is my first year here. Just came together, bonded and KO really challenges us but he knows how to bring us together."

The offseason barbecue

Why it matters: Sam Darnold said O’Connell was the chief orchestrator of team events to get the new players to bond. One was a barbecue, where each position group had to make a different food. O’Connell and the coaches were judges. The tight ends won, thanks to a Johnny Mundt ribeye.

"The quarterbacks made some pretty good wings. I didn’t help whatsoever. I was tasting some of the wings, that was about all I did," Darnold said. "Any time you can get to know guys off the field, that really does help on the field."

The inside path to the No. 1 seed

The scenario: The path is pretty simple for the Vikings: Beat the Seahawks, Packers and Lions, and they’re NFC North champions as well as the No. 1 seed in the NFC, getting a first round bye. They clinched a playoff spot before Monday Night Football against the Bears, but if they don’t win the division, they’ll be on the road with a win-heavy record.

What the team is saying: Players are taking a one week at a time mentality. That’s what’s gotten them this far.

C.J. Ham: "This year is special. Guys are truly bought into what we’re doing. The mindset is 1-0 every week. It’s something that we’ve got going."

Bradbury: "No one is unaware of it. It’s in your face, playoff rankings is all everyone sees. While you see that, you acknowledge it, then it’s back to what’s the install this week? You’re not thinking about that while you’re in a Wednesday practice."

Darnold: "Obviously we know what kind of team we have, but we just continue to take it one week at a time. That’s what we’ve done to put ourselves in this position, so we’re just going to continue to do that."

Jones: "It’s a good feeling, but nothing has been done yet. The box of making it to the playoffs has been checked, but we still have more boxes to check before we get to the playoffs. Know what we have here is special and be urgent about it, this doesn’t always come."

GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. (FOX 9) - Sixty-year-old Kathy Ingebrand sat in a chair in the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology, getting her 4th monthly infusion of a promising new drug. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in the fall of 2023.  It remains to be seen if the damage to her brain can be slowed, but it’s clear she’s already felt a huge boost to her mental health.

"Well, it’s just a new beginning of hope," she told us. "And what else can you do if you have a disease like this?"

Drug targets proteins that damage brain cells

What it is: The drug is called Kisunla and is given in monthly 30-minute infusions. In its clinical trials, it showed a clear effect on the study group versus the placebo group in the progression of Alzheimer’s symptoms.

What it does: Kisunla targets the abnormal proteins that accumulate in the brain that are called amyloids, sometimes referred to as plaque, that cause brain cells to lose function and die.

Clinical trials showed clear changes

By the numbers: There are two key statistics that give doctors and patients a lot of optimism about its potential.

First is a slowing of decline of mental and cognitive functions of up to 35%.

Second is a reduction of the damaging amyloid plaques in study participants by an average of 84% after 18 months.

Alzheimer's symptoms may go unnoticed at first

Local perspective: In the case of Kathy Ingebrand, she said the first clues of her decline were easy to pass off.

"The little things of ‘Ok, I wear glasses, I lose them,’" she told us. "But so does everyone else. You know, all these people on cheaters, they have ten pairs!"

But then, the woman who loves to cook would start forgetting to put ingredients in recipes, only to discover her mistakes when things didn’t taste right.

Then, there was the time at the cabin when she lost her phone and her husband scoured the lake looking for it.  She wound up replacing it, then found it in the suitcase she’d already searched a number of times.

She initially blamed her forgetfulness on menopause.  But after her family told her it may be something more, tests confirmed early onset Alzheimer’s.

Doctors say this is a game changer

Kathy is among the first dozen or so patients to receive Kisunla at the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology.

Its director, Dr. Elias Bazakos, says this treatment is not a cure.  The damage cannot be undone.  But it can significantly slow or even stop the progression.

"Many achieve a plateau where their symptoms will stop progressing for years," they told FOX 9.  "A small number of patients will actually improve after the amyloid gets cleared out of their brain."

"Every neurologist should be excited."

What to know about Kisunla

Who can get it: The drug is one of two currently approved to treat early stage Alzheimer’s patients.   Depending on your health plan, insurance companies should cover it.  It is also available under Medicare.

What’s next: Dr. Bazakos says this is a step towards creating even better treatments.  And he hopes what they learn from how patients respond, it may give researchers more insight into the causes.

As for patients, just the hope of slowing it all down is a huge boost to mental health.

"It made a world of difference," says Kathy.  "It really opened my mind and heart of thinking that something’s going to change and I"m going to be alright."

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - An Argentinian-themed pizza purveyor in Minneapolis has been fined $105,784 by the U.S. Department of Labor for allegedly violating labor laws surrounding overtime hours and tip-sharing, and illegally firing an employee who cooperated with an investigation.

Alleged violations

What we know: An investigation found Boludo Holding Co. and its owners, Jerad Rassmussen and Facundo Defraia, violated the Fair Labor Standards Act’s overtime provisions, while depriving 51 employees of $44,915 in earned overtime wages.

In addition to back wages, the restaurants’ owners were also found liable for damages that bring the total to $89,830 owed to workers. Penalties of $15,954 will also be levied against the company.

The investigation also found the company fired one of its workers at its uptown location after they spoke with investigators. 

Violation details

Why you should care: As part of its investigation, the U.S. Department of Labor found the Fair Labor Standards Act was violated by:

• Including managers and shift supervisors in a tip pool for servers and others allowed to receive tips
• Not combining hours employees worked at more than one location, which denied employees overtime wages
• Allowing at least four workers to routinely use other names and identification numbers to clock-in to avoid paying overtime
• Paying two employees straight-time rates for overtime hours, instead of time and one-half their regular rate of pay as required
• Failing to distribute tips to workers or provide records showing that tips were paid to workers properly

In addition to the fines, an announcement says Boludo has agreed to create a worksheet to process payroll to verify more than 40 hours in a week that are eligible for overtime.

Worker retaliation

What they’re saying: "Retaliating against workers who engage in protected activities, such as cooperating with a federal investigation, is a blatant violation of the law that we will not tolerate," said Kristin Tout, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division District Director in Minneapolis. "Too often our investigations in the food service industry find employers violating federal overtime, minimum wage and recordkeeping regulations, while workers remain unaware of their rights or afraid to question whether their paychecks are accurate. This kind of exploitation hurts workers and their families’ ability to earn a living and harms law-abiding restaurant operators by giving violators an unfair and illegal competitive advantage."

Expansion success

The backstory: Founded by "Che" Facundo DeFraia, Boludo offers pizza and empanadas on its menu.

Boludo first opened in 2018 in the Kingfield neighborhood of Minneapolis, and has since expanded into the uptown, downtown and Como neighborhoods.

According to its website, "Boludo unites community and people through food and music, bringing a taste of Buenos Aires to Minneapolis."

Past awards

Digging deeper: In August 2024, Boludo was ranked No. 39 on Yelp’s list of the 100-best pizzas in the nation.

Editor's note: A previous version of this story incorrectly identified Daniel del Prado as one of the restaurant's founders. The error has since been corrected. 

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - A driver will have to retake their driving test after crashing into the side of the Chaska License Center during the exam.

What we know

What happened: The crash happened around noon on Wednesday, Dec. 18, at the Chaska License Center on Pine Street. 

Police say the driver "mistook the gas pedal for the brake, striking two vehicles before crashing into the building." 

No injuries were reported.

Police add that the employee who sits on the other side of the wall that was struck had the day off during the crash.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) - Minnesota will be the first state to require a license for anyone buying or selling copper wire, starting Jan. 1.

Late Wednesday afternoon, a judge ruled against recyclers trying to block the law from taking effect.

Why require licenses?

Theft problem: St. Paul city leaders pushed for the law and a drive down Shepard Road makes it obvious why - nearly the entire street is in the dark after sunset because of copper wire theft.

The city spent more than $1 million last year replacing copper wire, so they wanted a better way to stop thieves.

One streetlight’s worth of copper wire costs taxpayers about $2,000 to replace, but it’s worth only about $50 to a recycler.

How's it work?

Simple prevention: Starting in 2025, anyone who wants to sell copper wire will have to get a license from the state at a cost of $250.

Recycling companies will have to check the license when they buy metal.

"Quite simply, people steal copper wire because they can sell stolen copper wire," St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter said in April as he pushed for the new law. "So if we say you can’t sell stolen copper wire, then we can eliminate that marketplace and eliminate the incentive for stealing it in the first place."

Possible punishment

Costly conduct: Businesses buying copper wire from unlicensed sellers could lose their license.

It’s a multi-billion dollar industry in Minnesota, so that license is very valuable.

And the online application process is pretty simple.

But a group representing about 25 scrappers said the law is too broad.

Arguments against

Broad ban: They argued it should just target specific grades of copper wire used for streetlights and air conditioning units.

They were denied a restraining order on Wednesday, though, so the law will take effect in a couple of weeks.

The state has already approved 16 licenses and denied zero.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The Minnesota Timberwolves host the New York Knicks on national TV Thursday night at Target Center.

It marks the first time Karl-Anthony Towns will be back in Minneapolis since being traded to the Knicks just before training camp.

‘It’ll probably be very emotional’

Why it matters: Towns was selected No. 1 overall by Minnesota in 2015 and spent his first nine seasons with the Timberwolves. He endured a lot of losing before he helped lead the Wolves to the Western Conference Finals last season for the first time in 20 years.

Thursday night, he’ll arrive to Target Center and head to the visitors’ locker room for the first time.

"It’ll probably be very emotional. He’s been here for nine years, this is the first time he’s been on the other side so I’m sure it will be. I’ll be right there with him, he’s a guy who’s taught me the ropes, helped me get to the predicament I’m in today," Naz Reid said Wednesday after practice. "Obviously you’ve got to compete, but he’s still my brother at the end of the day."

The trade

What we know: Just days before the start of training camp, Tim Connelly dealt Towns to the Knicks for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo. Connelly went to Towns’ home to tell him he had been traded before the news broke on social media.

Chris Finch has been the coach of the Timberwolves since 2021 and had Towns as a player for three-plus seasons.

"KAT was great. He was highly-coachable, you could get on him in film session, get on him on the practice floor. He liked to practice, he brought good energy to practice," Finch said. "He cheered for Ant from the moment that he got here and really set the tone for everything since I’ve been here."

Revenge game for Randle, DiVincenzo?

Why you should care: The two teams met in the NBA preseason at Madison Square Garden, but Thursday will be the first regular season meeting.

It’ll also be the first time DiVincenzo and Randle see their former teams. DiVincenzo says he’s happy in Minnesota.

"S**t, I’m loving life. I’m healthy, family is good, basketball is coming along. I’m feeling great, I’m happy, I’m just happy in life," DiVincenzo said. "It’s still family, I wish them nothing but success individually and collectively. It’s not normal to make a trade a day before media day, both sides it takes time to adjust and great things take time."

Randle didn’t put much stock into Thursday, saying it’s another game while smirking at every other follow-up question from media on Wednesday. So yeah, it’s not just another game, especially for Towns.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) - Hoping to reduce packaging waste that ends up in Minnesota’s landfills, leaders with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) are highlighting a new program that aims to make all packaging "refillable, reusable, recyclable, or compostable" by 2032.

Reducing waste

What we know: During the holiday season between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that household waste in America increases by 25%.

However, questions about product packaging and recycling are common during the holidays, leaving people to navigate how to properly dispose of wrapping materials and packaging.

What they’re saying: The new state program is designed to "simplify the recycling process" while making shopping decisions easier.

State leaders are expected to share tips that reduce the amount of packaging waste going to landfills.

Crushing containers

Dig deeper: In an effort to increase recycling efficiency, trash haulers in the Twin Cities previously have warned residents of the proper way to dispose containers before recycling them, saying crushing or flattening containers can make it difficult for workers using modern equipment to make sure the recycled item ends up in the right spot.

Increased investment

By the numbers: In December 2024, the MPCA announced it would provide $5.3 million across 11 grant recipients for projects that support recycling in Minnesota.

Grant recipients include:

• Cosmic Recycling – $850,000
• GypCycle – $850,000
• LEI Packaging – $850,000
• Polk County – $850,000
• True North Goodwill Industries – $350,000
• Prime Extrusion – $200,000
• FoamCraft Packaging – $149,519
• Slagle’s Demolition Landfill and Rolloff – $131,607
• Employment Enterprises – $119,579
• Atlas Games – $99,359

The Minnesota Legislature has dedicated $800,000 each biennium since 2019 to support MPCA’s grant-funded initiatives.

As a result of the 2023 legislative session surplus, the MPCA recycling market development program received an additional one-time funding increase for the 2024 round of grants.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The University of Minnesota football team is getting ready for the Duke’s Mayo Bowl on Jan. 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Late last week, the Gophers announced their 2025 regular season schedule. Here is an early look at the 12-game season.

Aug. 28 – BUFFALO

What we know: The Gophers continue their annual tradition of opening the season Thursday night under the lights at Huntington Bank Stadium. They’ll face Buffalo out of the MAC. The Bulls went 8-4 this season, including 6-2 in league play. 

Sept. 6 – NORTHWESTERN STATE

Why it matters: The Gophers host Northwestern State to close out home non-conference play. The Demons went 0-12 this past season and are in the Southland Conference. This is a game for P.J. Fleck and company that reserves should be playing in the second half.

Sept. 13 - @ California

What we know: The Gophers head west for their non-conference finale, facing California. The Bears moved to the ACC in conference realignment this season and went 6-6 overall, and 2-6 in league play. It’ll be a Power Five test for Minnesota before entering Big Ten play.

Sept. 20 – BYE

Why it matters: The Gophers get an early week off after three straight games.

Sept. 27 – RUTGERS

Why it matters: The Gophers open Big Ten play against Greg Schiano and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Huntington Bank Stadium. Athan Kaliakmanis led Rutgers to a win over Minnesota this year in Piscataway. It’s an early must-win game, with the Gophers heading to Ohio State the following week.

Oct. 4 - @ Ohio State

What we know: Minnesota faces a tall task, facing Ohio State in Columbus. The Buckeyes went 10-2 and are in the College Football Playoff. The Gophers lost to Ohio State in the 2021 season opener, and lost 37-3 two seasons ago.

Oct. 11 – PURDUE

What’s at stake: The Gophers are back home to face a Purdue squad that went 1-11 this season, 0-9 in the Big Ten and fired head coach Ryan Walters after the season. It’s another game where if the Gophers have aspirations of a good season, it’s one they have to win.

Oct. 18 – NEBRASKA

Why it matters: The Gophers get their second straight Big Ten home game, hosting Nebraska. Fleck is 5-0 against the Cornhuskers, last beating them 13-10 to open the 2023 season. The two teams did not meet in 2024. It hasn’t been the start Matt Rhule had hoped for. He’s 11-13 in his first two seasons, and 6-12 in the Big Ten.

Oct. 25 - @ Iowa

What’s at stake: The Gophers head to Iowa City to take on rival Iowa in the battle for Floyd of Rosedale. Minnesota had a 14-7 lead on the Hawkeyes this year at half before losing, 31-14. Fleck got his first win over Kirk Ferentz in 2023, and will be looking to bring Floyd back to Minneapolis.

Nov. 1 – MICHIGAN STATE

Why it matters: Fleck has a reunion of sorts with defensive coordinator Joe Rossi, who is now at Michigan State. The Spartans went 5-7 this season, and 3-6 in Big Ten play. Fleck is 2-1 against the Spartans with the Gophers, most recently getting a 27-12 win in 2023.

Nov. 8 – BYE

Why it matters: The Gophers get their second bye and will likely need it after six straight games.

Nov. 15 - @ Oregon

Why it matters: The Gophers travel to Eugene and face one of the top programs in all of college football. Oregon went 13-0 to win the Big Ten this year and is the No. 1 seed for the College Football Playoff. It’s Fleck’s first time facing the Ducks, thanks to Big Ten expansion.

Nov. 22 – Northwestern @ Wrigley Field

Why it matters: The Gophers head to Northwestern, and play a late November Big Ten game at Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs. The conditions could be interesting. Fleck and the Gophers should be motivated. In 2023, Minnesota had a three-touchdown lead in the fourth quarter and lost in overtime.

Nov. 29 – WISCONSIN

What’s at stake: The Gophers and Badgers end the regular season in the annual battle for Paul Bunyan’s Axe. Minnesota beat Wisconsin 24-7 this year to reclaim the Axe, and eliminate the Badgers from bowl contention. Fleck has beaten the Badgers four times.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Officials are warning Minnesotans to dispose of their Christmas trees properly once the holiday season is over, or risk spreading more than holiday cheer from the invasive pests they can sometimes carry.

Disease, species in trees

What we know: The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is warning those partaking in traditional holiday festivities to thoroughly check and dispose of trees brought into Minnesota from other states.

Invasive pests

Big picture view: One invasive species, the elongate hemlock scale, is a small insect established in the eastern U.S. that can cause the needles of hemlocks, firs and spruces to yellow and prematurely drop.

Boxwood blight, a fungal disease and invasive noxious weed, is sometimes found on wreaths and centerpieces, and can endanger native trees and other landscaping.

Protective steps

What they're saying: In an effort to further protect Minnesota’s environment, officials are asking people to take the following precautions when getting rid of their greenery and trees this year.

• Use a curbside tree collection or bring trees to a designated drop-off site.
• Don’t toss trees and greenery into backyard woods or a residential compost pile, which can spread invasive species or disease.
• Some wreaths and other decorative greens can be disposed of in trash cans, but a last resort is to burn the greens.

Next steps

What you can do: If you suspect a tree or other greenery might be infested with an invasive insect or disease, you’re encouraged to contact the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Report a Pest line at 1-888-545-6684 or reportapest@state.mn.us.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The Atlanta Falcons are 7-7 and fighting for their playoff lives with three regular season games to play, and made a big chance Tuesday night that had some Vikings’ fans laughing, and others in shock.

The team announced it would be starting rookie Michael Penix Jr. for the remainder of the season. That means Cousins is heading to the bench.

What happened?

Why it matters: Cousins left the Vikings in free agency to sign a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons, with $100 million guaranteed. He hit Drake London for a touchdown Monday night. Prior to that, Cousins had gone four straight games without a passing touchdown, and had eight interceptions over that span. He threw four interceptions against the L.A. Chargers, and had two in his return to Minneapolis.

Draft night drama?

What we know: Cousins signed with the Falcons under the assumption he would be the starting quarterback for at least the 2024 season, if not longer. They then made a stunning move, drafting Penix No. 8 overall after he led Washington to the national title game. The move caught Cousins and his agent by surprise.

In 14 starts this season, Cousins is completing 67 percent of his passes for 3,508 yards, but has just 18 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. Sam Darnold has 29 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 14 starts with the Vikings, who are 12-2 and control their own destiny to win the NFC North.

The contract

By the numbers: Cousins is under contract with the Falcons for four years and up to $180 million. That in and of itself is an expensive benching. If the Falcons were to cut him before the start of the 2025 league year in March, they would be on the hook for $65 million in dead money. If they were to find a trade partner, the acquiring team would take on $27.5 million, and they would be responsible for $37.5 million.

Cousins has a no-trade clause in is contract, which he would have to waive. The Falcons are paying him $90 million guaranteed this season for 14 starts.

The Source

Adam Schefter of ESPN, and Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network first reported the Cousins’ benching Tuesday night. The Falcons also issued a team statement.