Copyright minnpost
A Rochester restaurant is joining the effort to help Hurricane Melissa victims in Jamaica. KTTC reports “Francisco’s Restaurant … announced via its Facebook page that it will be accepting donations at its front counter for hurricane relief. … According to the restaurant, the money will go toward supporting the supply of food, shelter and relief to families impacted by [the hurricane.]” As colder weather approaches this season, the federal government shutdown is impacting energy bill assistance for thousands of Minnesotans. Bring Me The News writes “winter is coming, but federal funding that helps heat tens of thousands of Minnesota households is not, at least until the government shutdown is over. … The Minnesota Department of Commerce is asking utility companies to avoid shutting off heat over unpaid bills.” A recent bike trip brought together state lawmakers from both political parties. MPR News says “this excursion is part of a new legislative swap. It’s like a foreign exchange program, but for the adults elected to serve in the state Legislature. It’s sponsored by the Citizens League, a St. Paul nonprofit that promotes civility in politics and public policy.” Another St. Paul nonprofit says it’s moving forward after recent vandalism incidents hurt students’ environmental efforts. KARE 11 reports “St. Paul police are investigating after dozens of trees were vandalized along Shepard Road last week. … The targeted trees were planted last fall by St. Paul high school students working for Tree Trust, a nonprofit organization that teaches young people environmental and workforce skills.”
