Local News

Power 96 News for Friday April 3rd, 2026.

04/03/2026

A Freeborn County District Court judge on Wednesday ordered a competency examination of the 44-year-old man charged with reportedly critically injuring an elderly man last month with a meat cleaver in what authorities said was an unprovoked attack. Judge Christy Hormann in her written order stated there is a reasonable basis to doubt Paul Everett David"s competency to proceed based on her observations of him in court proceedings. The examination must include an evaluation of David"s mental health and cognition, as well as opinions by the examiner about his competency to stand trial, including his ability to consult with counsel, understand the proceedings and participate in his defense. The order states the evaluation will also make an opinion about the level of care and education required for him to “attain, be restored to or maintain competency” and will also look at substance use. Criminal proceedings will be suspended pending the examination. She also ordered the appointment of a direct care and treatment forensic coordinator. David, 44, listed as homeless, faces charges of first-degree assault, second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon and third-degree assault. He remains in the Freeborn County jail on a $500,000 unconditional bail, and a review hearing has been scheduled for May 13.

The Albert Lea School Board will meet Monday Evening at 5pm at the Brookside Education Center.

A Mason City man pleaded guilty to sexually exploiting children, possessing child pornography and possessing a stolen firearm in federal court. Parker Jon Thompson, 20, admitted to the crimes during a plea hearing. He remains in custody of the U.S. Marshal. Evidence from an earlier court hearing showed Thompson helped his friends plan a burglary at a gun shop in Mason City in June 2025. His friends stole several guns and gave at least two of them to Thompson. Law enforcement officers searched Thompson's phone while investigating the burglary. Officers found child pornography on the phone. Additional investigation revealed Thompson recorded multiple children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Thompson also asked a child to send him depictions of the child engaging in sex acts. At the plea hearing, Thompson admitted that between March 2024 and September 2025, he used, persuaded, induced and enticed minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct. Between June 2024 and April 2025, Thompson possessed depictions of child pornography. Sentencing before U.S. District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Thompson faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a possible maximum sentence of 50 years in prison, a $750,000 fine, $77,300 in special assessments and a lifetime term of supervised release following any imprisonment.

A Thief River Falls man has been charged with multiple counts of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) possession while he had been living in Austin. Cody Scott Adams, 25, was officially charged Thursday morning with 10 felony counts of possession of pornographic work involving a minor under the age of 14 during a first appearance of Mower County District Court. While he admitted to having conversations that were sexual in nature with minors as young as 15 and that he only had interest in minors aged 14-15, files obtained from seized electronics at the home revealed files involving pre-pubescent children. Adams is next in court for an initial appearance on April 13.

Power 96 News for Thursday April 2nd, 2026.

04/02/2026

Two people accused of burglarizing two Hancock County businesses have pleaded guilty. Tracy Marie Silvery, 44 of Mason City, has entered a guilty plea to first-degree theft and Jeremy Nicholas Mulford, 45 of Mason City, has entered a guilty plea to third-degree burglary. Investigators say Silvery and Mulford committed the crimes on November 30, 2025. According to court documents, the two stole a work truck and multiple tools from Prairie Energy in Garner and multiple items from a construction trailer at IMT Transport in Garner. Law enforcement says the trailer and items belonged to Larkin Construction in Ventura. The items stolen from Prairie Energy has an estimated value of $50,088. Investigators say Silvery and Mulford were driving a GMC Envoy and were identified by a witness who helped them after the Envoy got stuck in the snow. Silvery and Mulford are now scheduled to be sentenced on May 26.

Albert Lea High School English teacher Jennifer Henschel was named the 2026 District 241 Teacher of the Year on Wednesday in a reception at the high school. Henschel, who has worked for the district for 25 years - 10 at Southwest Middle School and 15 at the high school - also helps lead the credit recovery program at the high school. Henschel said it was an “incredible honor” to be chosen for the award and spoke of various ways that all of the teachers in the district are Teachers of the Year in their own ways. In addition to the district recognition, she also received a special award from the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce and $1,000 from Wuerflein Chevrolet. Henschel was one of six finalists for the annual recognition.

A Minneapolis man who posed as a teenager online to exploit a child for years has been sentenced to 27 years in federal prison. Robert James Levi, a registered sex offender, received 324 months' imprisonment for production of child pornography. U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen says Levi exploited a minor victim starting when she was just 12 years old. According to court documents, Levi catfished the victim for three years beginning in February 2022. He posed as a 16-year-old boy and convinced the girl, who lived in another state, that she was in a relationship with him. Levi exchanged more than 112,000 messages with the victim over the internet. Federal prosecutors say He coerced her into producing child sexual abuse material and sending it to him. In reality, Levi was an adult man. In February 2024, he was convicted of criminal sexual conduct in Stearns County and was required to register as a sex offender. "The state conviction did not stop Levi-he continued to exploit the victim during the pendency of that case and after he was placed on probation," court documents stated. The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristian Weir prosecuted it.

The Albert Lea Public Library invites the public to Bring Your Own Lunch and Learn on Thursday, April 9, with the program, “The Ames Project: Iowa State University and the Manhattan Project” presented by Teresa Waldof, the world"s leading expert on this topic. The Manhattan Project was a research and development program undertaken during World War II to produce the first nuclear weapons.

Attendees will learn about Dr. Harley Wilhelm and the Ames Project division of the Manhattan Project. Wilhelm was instrumental in the production of pure uranium required for the development of the atomic bomb. Waldof will detail his work the book she authored called “Wilhelm"s Way.” The program will be held from noon - 1 p.m. April 9 in the Council Chambers on the top floor of City Hall. There is no registration or fee required. For more information about this event and library programs, visit the library website at alplonline.org.

Power 96 News for Wednesday April 1st, 2026.

04/01/2026

The Minnesota Department of Transportation on Tuesday announced its 2026 road construction season includes more than 200 projects that will help improve and maintain Minnesota"s roads, bridges and other transportation infrastructure; improve safety and mobility; and support jobs throughout the state, according to a press release. Projects include repair of the northbound and southbound Interstate 35 bridges over Albert Lea Lake, which is expected to take place from June through October and cost $3.3 million. Shoulder closures will occur during construction. Also included is the third and final year of work on the Interstate 90 bridges in Austin.

Ruby's Pantry is ending operations at all locations effective immediately after 20 years. The locations they served include Albert Lea, Austin, Rochester, St. Charles, and Zumbrota. The organization made an announcement in an email stating "Over the past several months, we have been thoughtfully realigning the work, structure, and focus of Ruby"s Pantry to ensure our mission remains at the center of everything we do. As part of this process, we have worked to better align community needs with our goal of operating in the most effective and seamless way possible. As a result, we have decided to end the operations of Ruby"s Pantry effective immediately. We recognize that this is difficult news to receive and do not take this decision lightly. God has blessed Ruby"s for over 20 years, and it has been an incredible journey. It all started from a vision to help others through a single blessing box. We are truly grateful for your contributions and dedication throughout your time with Ruby"s Pantry. Thank you for the important role you have played on this journey and for the impact you have made in service of our mission."

The Mason City Fire Department responded to a house fire early Tuesday morning. According to MCFD, crews responded at about 7:24 a.m. to the fire on 12th Street SE. Upon arrival, they found the occupants of the home safely outside. Crews then worked to extinguish a fire on the outside of the home near the back door, and they found the interior of the home had light smoke but no active fire.

Firefighters ventilated the interior and removed sections of aluminum siding to check for fire extension. According to MCFD, the cause of the fire was determined to be improper disposal of smoking materials. No injuries were reported, and MCFD said the occupants are staying with family.

The Austin High School Music Hall of Fame has announced its three newest members for 2026: Christian Paulson (1980), Debra Borton-McDonough (1975), and Timothy Augustin (1987). The three inductees will be honored at a banquet at the MacPhail Center for Music Recital Hall on Wednesday, May 20. The dinner will be at 5 p.m., followed by a presentation at the Spring Choral Concert to be held at Knowlton Auditorium at 7 p.m. The banquet is open to the public and tickets may be purchased by contacting Sue Radloff at 507-437-4940 for $25. Reservations close on May 13. The Music Hall of Fame was started in 2009 by Ken Jensen, retired Austin music teacher, to honor those who are graduates of Austin High School. They must have achieved success in performance, education, or in the music industry.

Power 96 News for Tuesday March 31st, 2026.

03/31/2026

A diagnosed schizophrenic who admitted to smoking methamphetamine has pleaded guilty to causing a three-vehicle collision. Anthony Lee Graham, 26 of Austin, was charged with seven counts of criminal vehicular operation for an incident on October 18, 2025. He has now pleaded guilty to four counts. The remaining three will likely be dismissed when Graham is sentenced, with is set for June 11 in Freeborn County District Court. The Minnesota State Patrol says that at around 7:12 pm, Graham was driving a 1999 Ford Explorer south in the northbound lanes of Interstate 35 when he crashed into a northbound 2025 Honda CRV. A northbound 1997 Chevy GMT-400 then crashed into the Explorer. Court documents state Graham suffered non-life threatening injuries in the collision while a passenger in Graham"s Ford Explorer, the driver of the Chevy GMT, and the driver and a passenger in the Honda CRV also suffered moderate to severe injuries. According to investigators: One victim suffered some fractured vertebrae and a fractured nose A second victim suffered four broken ribs, a cracked sternum, and a bruised heart that required exploratory surgery. A third victim suffered a bleeding spleen, a broken femur, a broken tibia and fibula, two broken hands, five broken ribs, a broken sternum and tailbone, and two or three fractured vertebrae. Law enforcement says Graham has a history of schizophrenia and smoking methamphetamine. Graham reportedly told officers he had been driving in the southbound lanes of I-35 when he “became scared of all the semis around him” and went through the median into the northbound lanes of traffic.

The Austin Fire Department will begin fire hydrant flushing in the southeast quadrant of Austin starting Wednesday, April 1. Hydrant flushing will continue through the summer. AFD performs this annual maintenance to ensure hydrants are in working order. The flushing clears water lines of accumulated minerals and sediments. Though the flushing may tint water orange or rust, it is safe to use and drink. To clear your home water lines from this discoloration, run cold water for several minutes and flush your toilets once or twice. The lines should then be clear of the discoloration and sediment. People are urged to contact the Austin Fire Department at 507-433-3405 if you have any questions or concerns regarding annual hydrant flushing.

One man was injured Sunday evening after a vehicle rollover on 180th Street east of 660th Avenue, west of Conger. Douglas Kuethe, 53, of rural Alden was transported by ambulance to Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea before being flown by Mayo One helicopter to a Rochester hospital, according to the Freeborn County Sheriff"s Office. The report stated Kuethe was driving a Chevy Silverado pickup westbound on 180th Street with his daughter, Breanna Kuethe, 22. He reportedly drifted off the road to the north, hit two field drives and went into a steep drainage ditch. When deputies and first responders arrived, Douglas Kuethe, who was not wearing his seat belt, had to be extricated from the vehicle. The Sheriff"s Office stated he was not breathing, so responders started CPR, and eventually he started breathing on his own again. Breanna Kuethe was wearing her seat belt and was not injured. According to the report, alcohol appeared to be a factor in the crash. Responding agencies included the Sheriff"s Office, Albert Lea Police Department, Minnesota State Patrol, Mayo Ambulance and Conger Fire Department. The crash remains under investigation.

The Mason City Fire Department has provided more information regarding an ammonia leak that took place on March 21. According to MCFD, Crystal Cold, the company whose building experienced the leak, is working with a third-party refrigeration company that is conducting repairs and preparing a report of their findings. Once this is complete, MCFD will review it as part of their overall assessment. MCFD said their preliminary observations suggested a partial loss of power to the system caused pressure in the ammonia gas lines to increase and activate the relief valves. MCFD said this likely prevented a catastrophic ammonia gas leak. According to MCFD, Crystal Cold has been cooperative throughout the process and invited the fire department for a follow-up walkthrough with their refrigeration specialist to review the sequence of events and proposed corrective measures. MCFD said their goal is to ensure incidents like this are fully understood and that appropriate safety measures are in place to prevent future occurrences.

Power 96 News for Monday March 30th, 2026.

03/30/2026

Nick Ronnenberg received the Republican endorsement for the House District 23A seat over opponent Keith Van Beek Saturday at the party"s endorsing convention at Edgewater Park. Ronnenberg received 50 votes, compared to Van Beek"s 16, according to results announced after the ballots were counted. At the convention, incumbent District 23 Sen. Gene Dornink also received the party endorsement for his seat against challenger Cynthia Gail. House District 23B Rep. Patricia Mueller, who did not have any Republican challengers, received the endorsement by the party in her race.

Those seeking to add a few dozen trees or more to their property should order soon from Mower Soil & Water Conservation District"s annual program. As of Friday morning, about 2,000 bareroot trees remained available out of nearly 19,000 ordered by Mower SWCD, which runs the annual sale mostly to help landowners establish or replace windbreaks. All container-grown evergreens are sold out. Remaining bundles of 25 bareroot trees include: American arborvitae; eastern red cedar; white pine; white spruce; red splendor crabapple; sugar maple; bur oak; red oak; white oak; hybrid willow; American cranberry bush; elderberry; American hazelnut; and American plum. Orders can be made at the Mower SWCD office, 1408 21st Ave. N.W., or online at: www.mowerswcd.org

A Mason City man has been arrested for armed robbery. Deaundra Dewayne Thomas, 31, was booked into the Cerro Gordo County Jail just after 4 am Friday for first-degree robbery. Thomas is being held on $25,000 bond. Law enforcement says Thomas went to a home in the 200 block of 4th Street NW in Mason City at around 1:17 am on January 28. Court documents state Thomas, armed with a handgun, took money from the male victim's pockets and then struck him multiple times in the face with the handgun. Officers say the assault caused the victim to bleed from the mouth. Court documents state Thomas and the victim used to work together and Thomas was identified through a photo line up.

For the second year in a row, March 27 will be recorded as the date the ice completely melted on Fountain Lake, according to Mark Malepsy, annual watcher of the lake. Malepsy, of Bill & Mark"s Barbershop, said the last of the ice melted at 12:30 p.m. on Edgewater Bay down the hill from Edgewater Park Pavilion and Cottage. The record for earliest ice-out was March 3 in 2024, and the latest was April 27, which happened in both 1951 and 2018. The ice has never lasted into May. The recording of ice-out dates for Fountain Lake is the third oldest in the state, according to the State Climatology Office at the University of Minnesota. The longest-known recording of ice-out dates started in 1867 for Lake Osakis near Alexandria, but hasn"t been consistent. The recording of ice-out dates for Lake Minnetonka started in 1870 and has been consistent since 1887.

Power 96 News for Friday March 27th, 2026.

03/27/2026

A Mason City man has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine. Victor Ineson, 50, received the sentence after pleading guilty on Nov. 24, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. U.S. District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand handed down the sentence in Sioux City. Ineson admitted that between April and December 2024, he and another person used the "dark web" to buy about three pounds of methamphetamine. The drugs were shipped to them through the U.S. Postal Service for further distribution in Iowa. Ineson was previously convicted in 2017 in federal court of manufacturing counterfeit currency. After his prison term, Ineson must serve five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Ineson is being held in U.S. Marshal's custody until he can be moved to a federal prison. The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Clear Lake Police Department and the Cerro Gordo Sheriff's Office.

The Albert Lea school district will announce its 2026 Teacher of the Year on Wednesday in a reception at the Albert Lea High School Commons. This year"s finalists are Joan Boyenga, a teacher at Hawthorne Elementary School, Jenna Hegwood, a teacher at Halverson Elementary School, Jennifer Henschel, a language arts teacher at Albert Lea High School, Suzanne Mauer, the band teacher at Albert Lea High School, Christi Ness, a science teacher at Southwest Middle School, and Staci Waltman, media specialist at Halverson and Hawthorne elementary schools. The reception will begin at 3:45 p.m.

The Albert Lea Port Authority purchased three properties previously owned by Mayo Clinic Health System at the end of 2025, including the lot of the former Albert Lea High School building.   Phillip Johnson, director of strategic investments and projects with the Albert Lea Economic Development Agency, said the agency had been discussing the properties with Mayo for most of the time he has worked with ALEDA and prices have fluctuated greatly.

Renegotiations started a year and a half to two years ago and had previously involved a firm called REVocity out of Northfield. There were times when some of the properties were priced at a million each. Johnson said the Port Authority was able to get the number down to $300,000 for all three properties and ultimately decided to move forward. The three properties are the former Albert Lea High School site, the former Bonnerup building site and the former East Annex and the surrounding parking lot. The money used for the purchase comes from ALEDA funds the agency receives from its buildings that are leased or through TIF agreements on other projects with the city. Johnson said he anticipates the properties will ultimately be developed for housing, which is much-needed in the city and is often difficult for the area to obtain. He noted there are a couple of groups looking at the East Annex site and the old high school property. The old high school property would likely be workforce housing, while the East Annex site would be higher-end housing.

The Mason City Police Department said they have taken a person named Cory Lee Craig into custody and he is now facing pending charges. Mason City Police took Craig into custody around 5:32 p.m., before lifting the shelter-in-place on 8th Street SE and South Jersey Avenue. According to a Facebook post from the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff"s Office, police have resolved the situation.   MCPD said a press release with further details is expected Friday.

Power 96 News for Thursday March 26th, 2026.

03/26/2026

A man with a past conviction of manslaughter in Dakota County has been charged in Mower County District Court with three counts of domestic assault, all of them felonies. Dustin Charles Chenevert, 37, made a first appearance in court Thursday afternoon to face the charges stemming from an incident on March 22 in which he allegedly assaulted a woman he was in a relationship with. According to the court complaint, Austin Police Department officers were dispatched to a residence in Austin at around 8:25 p.m. after a woman reported an argument that had turned physical. According to the woman, the assault allegedly included being spit on, slapping slapped in the face and choked, though Chenevert denied the allegations, but admitted to getting into an argument with the woman. He also claimed that she started slapping him in the face and attempted to stop her from doing so by putting her in a bear hug. He also stated that she grabbed him by the shirt and punched him in the face. Earlier, when police interviewed the woman she stated that during the argument, Chenevert became aggressive and that at one point came at her with a balled fist. She continued by saying that in the past, when Chenevert comes at her, she is fearful of what he will do and the only way to stop him is to hit him. Chenevert is currently serving two months supervised probation in Mower County for a gross misdemeanor domestic assault conviction last October, but he also has a past prison conviction in which he received a 58-month sentence in 2016 for second degree manslaughter resulting from the overdose death of Albert Lea teen, Colton Jayce Poplow, who died in a South St. Paul hotel room after taking methadone tablets. During the investigation, it was discovered that Chenevert had sold the tablets to Poplow resulting in his February 2015 death.

A major intersection in Mason City was closed starting Wednesday for concrete work. The North Pennsylvania Avenue and 1st Street NE intersection will be shut down for about two days, according to the Mason City Public Works Department. Crews need to replace concrete panels at the intersection. Drivers should plan ahead and use alternate routes to get around the closure.

An Austin man has been charged with felony assault for accosting an Austin Fire Department firefighter at Austin"s Twin Towers earlier this month. Obudwok Ochot Akuch, 55, will be in Mower County District Court on April 2 for an initial appearance after being charged with fourth degree assault of a municipal or volunteer firefighter. He was arrested on March 6 after the firefighter involved was able to subdue Akuch in the lobby of the Twin Towers following the alleged assault. According to the court complaint, Austin Police Department officers were dispatched to the Twin Towers for a report of the assault on the firefighter, who was on the premises resetting the fire alarm. When the first officer arrived on scene, the firefighter already had Akuch on the ground and told officers that Akuch entered the building while he was at the alarm panel. He said Akuch stared at him before launching the attack and striking the firefighter in the face. The firefighter said he was able to turn his head resulting in the strike landing on the ear. The firefighter was then able to push the man up against the wall before taking him to the ground. Security footage obtained from the Twin Towers shows Akuch entering the building and then lunging at the firefighter before being subdued. When questioned, Akuch refused to answer questions and was then arrested and transported to the Mower County Jail. After a first appearance back on March 9, a warrant was issued for Akuch"s arrest after he failed to appear for a hearing on March 19. He was then in court again on March 23 prior to his upcoming appearance in April.

Blue Zones Albert Lea invites local residents to keep stepping toward a longer, healthier life with a community walk on Saturday, April 18, beginning at 10 a.m. at the Marion Ross Theater, 147 N. Broadway Ave., Albert Lea. After a short program on Blue Zones healthy habits, participants will walk part of the Blue Zones Walkway along Fountain Lake and then head for lunch at First Lutheran Church. This walk will kick off a series of events this year to mark the 10-year anniversary of Albert Lea being certified as a Blue Zones community, the first in the nation. This event is free and open to all fitness levels. All ages are welcome as long as children are accompanied by an adult. To ensure enough food and T-shirts, people are asked to register at www.cityofalbertlea.org/recreation-registration. Residents may also register by calling the Albert Lea Recreation Department at 507-377-4370.

Power 96 News for Wednesday March 25th, 2026.

03/25/2026

A 44-year-old man is facing multiple charges after he reportedly critically injured an elderly man in what authorities have described as an unprovoked attack with a meat cleaver Saturday afternoon. Paul Everett David, listed as homeless, was charged Monday in Freeborn County District Court with first-degree assault, second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon and third-degree assault. Assistant Freeborn County Attorney Abigail Ehret said David"s victim was reportedly flown to Rochester and had three separate brain bleeds from the attack. He also had a broken nose, multiple fractures and other injuries to his face. Court documents state the elderly man was sitting outside enjoying the weather when his wife, who was indoors, reportedly heard a man yelling who was walking on 11th Street. When the woman came down the stairs, the door was open and her husband was lying on his back with blood around his face. She told police she believed he was attempting to avoid the man and get inside the house after being attacked right near the downstairs door. When shown a photograph of David, she identified him as the person who came up the driveway toward her husband. Court records state officers located David walking westbound on Railroad Avenue toward South Broadway Avenue. He was reportedly bleeding from his hand. An officer used his loudspeaker to contact David from a distance, but David reportedly ignored him and walked across the street. At that time, he was holding what was described as a “large metallic square item” and was told to put it down. He began to throw other items down on the street and yell obscenities at officers. The metal object he was carrying, which had blood on it, appeared to be a large meat cleaver. David also had a large amount of blood on his clothing. David was reportedly known to officers and is known to carry large knives and other weapons, including machetes, the court complaint said. Officers used a non-lethal remote restraint device and taser to apprehend him, and he was eventually taken into custody.   Ehret said David has a lengthy criminal history, including convictions for third-degree burglary, fourth-degree assault, domestic assault and threats of violence. She also noted prior complaints police had responded to about David, including reports of him walking down the road with a machete, including one instance from November when he was swinging it at passing vehicles. As Ehret spoke, David began yelling and using profanities from the holding area where he appeared during the Zoom hearing and ultimately had to be placed on mute by Judge Christy Hormann, who directed him to be quiet and respectful without any success. Ehret asked for $500,000 unconditional bail and said she did not think at this point, David would follow any conditions put in place. Hormann said given David"s behavior during the hearing and the underlying crime, she would approve the $500,000 unconditional bail option. He is next slated to appear in court April 1.

As the nation commemorates its historic 250th anniversary, C-SPAN announced that students at Albert Lea High School have earned national recognition as 2026 winners in C-SPAN"s annual StudentCam documentary competition. Danica Pestorious, Michaela Hanson and Brielle Bakken are third-prize winners and will receive $750 for the documentary, “The Cost of Independence: Family Farms.” And Adylan Gilliam, Keira Erickson and Danika Jensen are honorable mention prize winners and will receive $250 for the documentary, “Freedom of Speech and Media.”   C-SPAN also recognizes Jim Haney, who served as an adviser and mentor throughout the StudentCam competition, helping guide this nationally recognized achievement. C-SPAN received more than 1,800 documentary submissions from nearly 4,000 students representing 38 states and Washington, D.C., underscoring the competition"s broad national reach and civic impact.

The Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Ag Luncheon on Tuesday, recognizing and celebrating all things agriculture in and around Albert Lea. Guest speaker Dr. Adam Birr, the executive director of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, talked about corn and ethanol production in Minnesota. There were also awards for farm families that make a big impact in the agriculture industry and an even bigger impact on their communities. Four area families were recognized with the winner being the Zach and Steph Adams family from the Glenville area.

Power 96 News for Tuesday March 24th, 2026.

03/24/2026

The Albert Lea City Council voted 5-1 Monday to approve retail cannabis registrations for two local companies, bringing the number of approved dispensaries in the city up to four. With the approval, Jerry and Angie Collins with Big Dream Organics LLC and Brenda Zamora with Aficionados LLC said they will begin offering product as soon as possible, depending on market availability. Albert Lea Mayor Rich Murray was the sole vote against the new registrations and said he felt like it was an important thing for him to do. Sixth Ward Councilor Brian Anderson was absent.

A guilty plea is entered over tens of thousands of dollars in vandalism damage. Nicholas Todd Rush, 33 of Mason City, is now set to be sentenced on June 1 for first-degree criminal mischief. Law enforcement says Rush entered a home in the 1100 block of E State Street in Mason City on July 31, 2025, and destroyed household goods, furniture, electronics, appliances, windows, doors, and drywall. Court documents state Rush caused an estimated $58,547.38 in damage to the home.

Albert Lea is calling on developers and builders to submit proposals for affordable housing projects on city-owned properties. This initiative aims to increase housing options and enhance community neighborhoods. The Request for Proposals (RFP), released Friday, offers opportunities for constructing single-family homes, twin homes, or duplexes. New construction should complement existing neighborhoods while providing diverse designs. To encourage development, the city offers incentives, including up to $5,000 for design work, $5,000 for water and sewer hookups, and $20,000 for demolishing hazardous structures. Instead of a minimum purchase price, proposals will be assessed on factors like long-term tax benefits, environmental impact, and developer experience. Proposals are due by April 15. For more information, interested parties can view the RFP online or contact City Manager Ian Rigg.

A plea deal is reached with a man accused of sexually abusing two children in Cerro Gordo County. Darwin Lopez Palma, 41 of Mason City, has entered an Alford plea to one count of lascivious act with a child. Lopez Palma has been charged with four counts of second-degree sexual abuse for committing sex acts on two children in Mason City between April 2024 and April 2025. An Alford plea means Lopez Palma is not admitting guilt but concedes he could be convicted at trial. Lopez Palma is now scheduled to be sentenced on May 4.

Power 96 News for Monday March 23rd, 2026.

03/23/2026

Albert Lea police arrested a 44-year-old man Saturday evening after he reportedly assaulted a man and then fled into a nearby wooded area, according to police. Albert Lea officers were dispatched at 5:08 p.m. to a residence on South Broadway Avenue for a reported assault. Initial reports indicated that a 77-year-old resident was bleeding from the head after being attacked. Upon arrival, officers confirmed the victim was suffering from a head wound. Witnesses stated the suspect had fled into a nearby wooded area wearing all black, had bloody hands and was carrying a metal object. Officers located a male matching the description near Broadway Avenue South and Railroad Avenue. The subject, who had blood on his hands, was non-compliant and began walking away from officers, discarding items including a large metal object. Officers deployed less-lethal devices and successfully took the subject into custody without further incident. Both the victim and the suspect were transported to the emergency room at Mayo Clinic Health System-Albert Lea for medical treatment. The suspect has been identified as 44-year-old Paul Everett David, who is in police custody. The investigation remains ongoing. The Albert Lea Police Department was assisted by the Freeborn County Sheriff"s Office and Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service.

Firearms safety classes will begin from 6 to 8:30 p.m. April 1 at the Albert Lea Moose Lodge in the back room. Classes will be Wednesdays in April, with participants going to the shooting range on Saturday May 2. Classes are open to those 12 and older, and a parent or guardian is requested for registration. A copy of the birth certificate is a must.

Two vehicles collided at the intersection of Minnesota Highway 218 and 110th Street in Lyle on Saturday, resulting in non-life-threatening injuries to one driver. The Minnesota State Patrol says Breanna Kay Anderson, 31, from Austin, was driving a 2013 Hyundai Elantra northbound on Minnesota Highway 218 when her vehicle collided with a 2014 Ford Fusion traveling eastbound on 110th Street. Anderson sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to MCAS for medical attention. Zoe Jade Berg, 23 of Lyle, the driver of the Ford Fusion from Lyle, did not sustain any injuries. A 15-year-old female passenger in Berg's vehicle was also unharmed. The State Patrol says both drivers were wearing seat belts, and there was no suspicion of alcohol involvement in the crash. The road conditions were dry at the time of the incident. First responders from the Lyle Fire Department, Mower County Sheriff's Office, and MCAS assisted at the scene.

The Mason City Fire Department responded to a reported ammonia leak at the Crystal Distribution Facility on Saturday March 21st at 6:08 P.M. after a 911 called alerted authorities. Fire and police confirmed the ammonia release upon arrival and took action to protect nearby residents. Due to the calm wind conditions, the gas spread in multiple directions. This caused the evacuation perimeter to expand several times. The North Iowa Hazmat Team was activated and an Alert Iowa notification advised all residents to evacuate. Hazmat personnel secured the ammonia shutoff valve by 8:30 P.M. and by 9:47, it was safe for residents to return home. The cause of the leak is currently under investigation and facility operations have been temporarily suspended due to this. No injuries or exposures have been reported.

Power 96 News for Friday March 20th, 2026.

03/20/2026

The Albert Lea City Council on Monday is slated to vote on the approval of two local companies to fill the open cannabis licenses, after increasing the number of retail cannabis registrations in the city from two to four last month. According to the council agenda, councilors will vote on registrations for Big Dream Organics LLC and Aficionados LLC. Jerry and Angie Collins have owned and operated Big Dreams since 2019, selling CBD products at their location at 1039 S. Broadway. This would expand their cannabis products. Brenda Zamora, whose family has owned Casa Zamora for over 55 years, announced last summer she planned to buy the business and the property, at 2006 E. Main St., for the shop and transition to that goal. The vote comes as the council last summer approved registrations for companies Matchbox Farms and Black Husky, who were both from out of state. Neither of these two companies have opened, citing difficulties with the supply. The council last month also approved expanded requirements for applicants wishing to open up shops, where applicants will have to provide a lot more documents than previously required to prove their financial backing, and applicants will go through a background check. The ordinance identified that a business has 180 days to open once its registration is approved and clarified that there is no waiting list for registrations. If an application is submitted when no registrations are available, it becomes void after 30 days. The ordinance also clarifies that the city is making decisions to protect the “public health, safety and welfare of the city residents” when it makes decisions regulating cannabis businesses. The changes come as the state Office of Cannabis Management continues to offer additional guidance on cannabis registrations.

The Rochester Police Department says a minivan crashed ino a house early Friday morning, injuring two people who were sleeping inside. The accident occurred around 6:30 a.m. in the 2400 block of 18 Lane Southeast, near Willow Creek School. The victims were taken to the hospital by Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service as a precaution. The driver, who was the only person in the vehicle, is suspected of impaired driving. Law enforcement is continuing an investigation into the crash.

The Austin Area Foundation has announced the opening of the application period for three scholarships available for Austin High School graduating seniors/alumni and one for all of Mower County. All three scholarship applications are now open through April 30 at 11:59 p.m. The evaluation committee will review applications in May and scholarship recipients will be contacted by June 15. To apply and review the qualifications for each scholarship, visit the Austin Area Foundation Website at austinareafoundation.com and click the scholarship application link at the top of the page.

The Steele County Fairgrounds in Owatonna is once again hosting the North American Farm and Power Show this weekend. The farming industry exhibition hosts more than 150 companies packed wall-to-wall within the Four Seasons Center, offering anyone in the farming industry a one-stop shop just in time to get ready for the planting season.

Power 96 News for Thursday March 19th, 2026.

03/19/2026

Waseca County"s Sheriff is looking to keep his position with an election coming up in November. On Thursday, March 19th, Waseca County Sheriff Jay Dulas announced that he would be running for reelection. In a press release, Sheriff Dulas says he wants to continue serving the residents of Waseca County. If reelected, it would be his second term as sheriff. Dulas was first elected as Waseca County Sheriff in 2022 following his more than two decades in law enforcement.

West Des Moines police have made in arrest in the murder of realtor Ashley Okland nearly 15 years after her death. Kristin Elizabeth Ramsey, 53, of Woodward, is charged with first-degree murder. She has been booked into the Dallas County Jail and is being held on a $2 million cash-only bond. Okland, 27, was found dead with two gunshot wounds inside a model townhome where she was holding an open house on April 8, 2011. The case went unsolved for nearly 15 years.

The North Iowa Bulls franchise announced plans to relocate its NAHL team to Richmond, Texas, after the 2025-26 season. However, junior hockey will still have a presence in Mason City. The NA3HL Mason City Toros will stay in the community and be renamed the North Iowa Bulls starting with the 2026-27 season. The organization says this move shows its commitment to the North Iowa hockey community. The franchise expressed gratitude for the support from local billets, sponsors, fans, and the City of Mason City, as well as Mason City Youth Hockey. "Your dedication has allowed us to successfully operate two teams in this market and build a successful junior hockey program," the franchise stated. The North Iowa Bulls said the decision to relocate was difficult, but they believe concentrating on one team in Mason City will help maintain the tradition of their NA3HL program, which boasts four national championships and many players advancing to college hockey. Details about the 2026-27 season ticket packages will be announced soon. Meanwhile, tickets for the remaining NAHL Bulls home games, as the team aims for a playoff spot, are available at northiowabulls.com.

Selling potentially deadly fentanyl pills is sending an Olmsted County man to prison. Devantae Chanke Noiheuan-Osborne, 27 of Rochester, pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree drug sales. The Rochester Police Department says between July and September 2024, Noiheuan-Osborne sold over 120 M30 fentanyl pills to a confidential reliable informant. That led to a search of Noiheuan-Osborne's home in September 2024 where investigators say they found two M30 pills. Noiheuan-Osborne has now been sentenced to five years and four months in prison, with credit for 6 days already served. As part of a plea deal, two additiona counts of first-degree drug sales were dismissed as part of a plea deal.

Power 96 News for Wednesday March 18th, 2026.

03/18/2026

Riverside Arena in Austin will be buzzing with activity this weekend, as the Riverside Figure Skating Club puts on their 51st annual show. As of now there are 69 skaters ready to perform. The club, which is coached by Chris Amy, is hosting a program called “Skating Through the Decades” with shows taking place at 4 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday at Riverside Arena. The club will feature its lone senior during the performance as Austin"s Kamryn Mittelsted will skate in the show for the last time. This year"s show will also feature an adult skater as the club has added a new class. Austin grad Kaylee Butts, who also helps with coaching, will work in a solo that is sure to impress. The cost for the show is $10, with children aged five and under getting in free.

Unofficial results show Nicolas Determann is the winner in Tuesday's special election in Forest City. Determann, the Director of Mental Health Counseling at Waldorf University, received 93 votes. That's just over 56% of the 166 votes cast Richard William Sahr, a Winnebago employee for 43 years, got 52 votes and Barbara Ruiter, former reporter and Area Education Agency secretary, got 21 votes. If these vote totals are confirmed by a canvass, Determann will fill the vacant At-Large seat on the Forest City City Council.

The man accused of embezzling from the Mohawk Trap Team is pleading not guilty. Dion James Cody, 42 of Mason City, was arrested in February and charged with first-degree theft. Investigators say that between April 2021 and August 2025, Cody "exercised exclusive control" over the Mohawk Tramp Team's finances and embezzled over $10,000 in team funds. Court documents state that financial records and Venmo data show "numerous non-team-related purchases, ATM withdrawals, and other payments unrelated to team operations." Cody is set to stand trial beginning May 19.

Tuesday evening brought a gold medal homecoming in Freeborn County as the community celebrated a Paralympic hero. Around 50 emergency personnel and family welcomed home Paralympic Gold Medalist Landon Uthke. Uthke was a Defenseman on the USA Sled Hockey Team that beat Canada in the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina. A 6-2 win gave them the gold medal.

Power 96 News for Tuesday March 17th, 2026.

03/17/2026

The Albert Lea school board on Monday approved termination and non-renewal of teaching contracts of 19 probationary teachers, along with unrequested leaves of absence of five tenured teachers at the end of the school year due to budget reductions facing the district because of a decreasing enrollment. Heil said while every year districts approve the non-renewal of teaching contracts based on budget outlooks for the coming year, usually the reductions are not as deep. He said while they are retaining many good staff, they are also letting some good staff go. The district looks to cut $2.6 million before the start of the 2026-27 school year and follows $2 million in cuts in 2024-2025 and $1.3 million in 2023-2024. He said the cuts this year equate to $1.2 million at the elementary school level and $800,000 at the secondary level. About $600,000 in additional cuts have yet to be made at the April board meeting looking at administrative and non-certified levels. A community task force made up of teachers, parents and other community members is also expected to make recommendations about more efficiencies that could be made in coming years. Heil said the most recent weekly update shows the district is down 130 students this year, part of which was affected by what he described as national activities taking place in the state. He said it was important for the district to remain focused on the priorities that have the greatest impact on student learning, including strengthening literacy, improving mathematics instruction and advancing strong academic programming at the secondary level. The superintendent also said in the next week or two he and the principals will sit down and look at the different assignments for the next school year and try to balance the anticipated class sizes. He said this normally happens in May, but he wanted to do this early this year.

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will take no action to leave the county as shotgun-only for deer hunting, meaning that the county will default to the new state law that allows for the use of rifles for the deer firearm season. Board Chairman Brad Edwin made the announcement Tuesday at the close of the regular meeting. The state law allowing for rifle hunting during the season went into effect on Jan. 1, but while it opened the door for the use of the firearm, it also maintained that each county could decide on its own whether to remain shotgun-only. The former law had been in place since 1942, restricting the kind of firearms deer hunters can use in this part of the state. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the shotgun-only zone was created to protect what was then a small deer population because shotguns cannot shoot as far as rifles. Residents in February spoke both in favor and against the change in a public input session on the issue, with feedback appearing to be split, Edwin said. Aside from the public meeting, he said he received texts, emails and phone calls from many people, including hunters, landowners and others who use the outdoors for recreation. He said he appreciated everyone who came forward and shared their concerns and stories with the board. The board needed to make its decision prior to May when the Department of Natural Resources prepares its annual hunting guidelines book. The board can revisit the issue in the future if the need arises.

Wednesday morning the History Center of Freeborn County will host Coffee with a Cop at 10 am. Coffee with a Cop brings police officers and the community members they serve together to discuss issues and learm more about each other. The event will be hosted by Sgt. Jason Taylor and is free to the community.

Power 96 News for Monday March 16th, 2026.

03/16/2026

Widespread snow that has fallen over the area, is causing travel conditions to continue to be dangerous as heavy winds contribute to create reduced visibility. The National Weather Service states that Albert Lea received 10 inches of snow as of Sunday afternoon, according to the recording station at the city"s wastewater treatment plant. The storm caused both I35 and I90 closures. Be sure to go to 511mn.org for the latest road conditions.

Two people were injured early Sunday morning after their vehicle went into the ditch on Interstate 35 north of Albert Lea. Paul Espinoza, 33, and Flora Martinez, 81, both of Minneapolis, were taken to Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea for injuries deemed not life-threatening, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. The crash report states the two people were riding in a 2024 GMC Sierra pickup driven by Quirinio Diaz, 65, also of Minneapolis. According to the report, the pickup was north on I-35 when it lost control at 1:36 a.m. and came to a rest in the ditch near milepost 15. Diaz and three other passengers in the truck were not injured. Only one individual was listed as wearing her seatbelt. The report states alcohol was not a factor in the crash. The Freeborn County Sheriff"s Office, Clarks Grove Fire Department and Mayo Ambulance assisted at the scene.

A 26-year-old man was seriously injured Saturday afternoon in a crash east of Myrtle. The Freeborn County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to a report of an injury crash at 12:52 p.m. Saturday at 86379 145 St. According to the Sheriff's Office, when deputies arrived, a Chrysler Town and Country was on its passenger side with one male occupant, who was identified as Jacob Novak from Myrtle. Novak was traveling westbound on 145 Street when he crossed the eastbound lane of 145 Street, entering the south ditch continuing westbound and hitting the driveway of 86379 145 St. The vehicle went airborne and landed on its passenger side. Novak was transported by Mayo One helicopter to the Mayo Clinic emergency room in Rochester for severe threatening injuries. Myrtle Fire Department, Glenville Fire Department, Mayo Ambulance and Minnesota State Patrol assisted at the scene. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the crash. This investigation is ongoing.

Minnesota State Patrol has begun releasing crash numbers for Sunday, March 15 amid the winter storm impacting much of the state. According to MSP, from midnight to 5 p.m., troopers responded to 108 property damage crashes, 4 injury crashes, 28 spin outs, 14 jackknifed semis, and 415 vehicles off the road.

Power 96 News for Friday March 13th, 2026.

03/13/2026

A Wells man is facing charges for reportedly assaulting a woman and lighting her car on fire last month after he became upset about a meal she made. Ruben Alonso Gomez, 32, has been charged in Faribault County District Court with felony second-degree arson, felony first-degree damage to property and misdemeanor domestic assault tied to the incident. Court documents state the Wells Police Department responded to reports of a vehicle on fire Feb. 28 at a residential apartment complex on First Avenue in Wells. The officer reportedly interviewed a woman who said she and Gomez, her domestic partner, had been arguing for the past day and he was upset that she did not make a meal correctly. She said he had physically assaulted her by pushing her, grabbing her shirt and neck, hitting her and kicking her. The marks on her body were consistent with the reported assault. As she attempted to leave, Gomez reportedly prevented her from doing so by removing the battery from her vehicle and flattening her tires. She said while she was in the apartment between trips to the car, Gomez left the apartment and returned, telling the woman he had intentionally started her car on fire to prevent her from leaving. The fire was extinguished by the Wells Fire Department. Gomez is next slated to appear in court March 16.

The likelihood for significant snowfall over the weekend is increasing, according to the National Weather Service. The weather agency has issued a winter storm watch through Monday morning for all of south-central Minnesota. Widespread amounts of more than 6 inches of snow are expected, with amounts of 1 to 2 feet likely within the heaviest band of snow. A band of very heavy snow is expected where snowfall amounts of 12 to 18 inches are likely. In those areas, snowfall rates of 2 inches of snow per hour are possible late Saturday night through Sunday morning.   The Weather Service states the most likely placement of this band is across southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin, although it could still shift north or south.

Travel may become impossible by Sunday as blizzard conditions develop, including gusty winds of 30 to 40 mph. Conditions will cause blowing and drifting snow, leading to difficult travel conditions. Travel impacts may continue through Monday morning.

Power 96 News for Thursday March 12th, 2026.

03/12/2026

A St. Paul man arrested with over 100 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop in August on Interstate 35 in Freeborn County pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. As part of a plea agreement, Carlos De Jesus Hernandez Carpio pleaded guilty to the charge, and the government agreed to dismiss two additional counts, including distribution of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to the agreement, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration in July 2025 arranged for a controlled purchase of one pound of meth from a co-conspirator for $2,400. On July 23, Carpio reportedly met an undercover agent at a location in St. Paul, where he delivered one pound of meth and provided the agent with his name and phone number. The agreement states that based on sentencing guidelines that look at his criminal history and other criteria, guidelines call for a sentence of 46 to 57 months in prison, though Carpio acknowledges that regardless of the guidelines, the statutory mandatory minimum sentence is for 10 years in prison. Both parties will be free to recommend whatever sentence they deem appropriate at sentencing and reserve the right to make motions for departures from the sentencing guidelines or other variances. The agreement also states that the parties understand that the guidelines are advisory and that the court may vary or depart from the applicable guidelines range. Carpio will not be able to withdraw his guilty plea if the court does not accept the sentencing recommendation of the parties.

The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning effective Thursday evening through Friday morning. Northwest winds of 30 to 40 mph are likely with gusts up to 65 mph expected. The Weather Service states damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines, and widespread power outages are possible. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. People are advised to secure loose objects that could be blown around or damaged by the wind. The warning remains in effect from 10 p.m. Thursday through 7 a.m. Friday. The weather agency has stated there is a high chance for more than 6 inches of snow Saturday night through Sunday evening.

The Mower County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday morning cleared the way for a cannabis grow and manufacture facility to begin operation in rural Mower County. Commissioners voted unanimously to approve six conditional use permits (CUPs) related to the 125-acre, six parcel operation near LeRoy that will include five fields for the growing of cannabis and one parcel designated for a fully-enclosed manufacturing process. The fully-enclosed process is a closed-looped system that will not allow for open-air solvents with no outdoor processing, drying or storage of any kind with no exterior lighting or light spill from the facility. The land in question, located in the 74000 block of 115th Street, LeRoy, is enclosed by existing natural buffers with the closest neighbor situated approximately 1,220 feet away from the property.

Steele County is the latest county to determine if they wish to stay a shotgun only area, or if they will allow the new rifle hunting rules. The Steele County Board of Commissioners" public hearing on potential changes to local deer hunting firearm regulations will be during their meeting at 5 p.m. March 24. Their meetings take place at the Steele County Administrator Building in the board room.

Power 96 News for Wednesday March 11th, 2026.

03/11/2026

The Shell Rock River Watershed District Board of Managers on Tuesday approved a $7.7 million contract with dredging and marine construction company J.F. Brennan Co. for the third and final phase of dredging on Fountain Lake. Shell Rock River Watershed District Administrator Andy Henschel said dredging will begin in the spring and take two years to complete. The project calls for removing about 600,000 cubic yards of sediment out of portions of Bancroft Bay, Bancroft Creek and the east basin of Fountain Lake"s main bay. Upon completion, the Fountain Lake Restoration Project is expected to have removed between 1.7 and 1.8 million cubic yards of sediment from Fountain Lake. The district said in a press release the sediment removal is a major step toward improving water quality and moving the Lake closer to delisting it from Minnesota"s Impaired Waters List.

Albert Lea Fire Rescue says it tackled a house fire early Tuesday in the 400 block of Maurice Avenue. Firefighters arrived at 6:57 a.m. to find flames visible on two sides of the house. The residents were found at a neighbor's home, having suffered smoke inhalation. Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service treated two children and one adult on-site before transporting them to Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea. Damages are estimated at $30,000. The Minnesota Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause. The Albert Lea Police Department and the Salvation Army assisted at the scene.

A 59-year-old Florida man was injured Monday afternoon when a semi crashed on Interstate 35 south of Albert Lea. George Lester Copeland, of Kissimmee, Florida, was taken to Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea for injuries deemed not life-threatening, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. The crash report stated Copeland was driving a 2016 Kenworth semi southbound on Interstate 35 near milepost 3 at 3:50 p.m. Monday when the semi failed to turn properly in a curve area, left the roadway and collided with the median barrier. Copeland was listed as wearing his seat belt, and alcohol was not a factor. The roads were dry at the time of the crash. The Glenville Fire Department, Freeborn County Sheriff"s Office and Mayo Ambulance assisted at the scene.

A high-speed chase in Cerro Gordo County is sending a North Iowa man to prison. Clay Douglas Kalvig, 37 of Mason City, pleaded guilty to eluding, possession of marijuana with intent to deliver, and driving while barred. The Cerro Gordo County Sheriff's Office says it arrested Kalvig on November 4, 2025, after he fled a traffic stop and drove through several streets at high speeds, damaging police vehicles and a construction zone. Kalvig was apprehended near 5th Street SE and South Vermont Avenue. Court documents state marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found inside his “significantly damaged” vehicle. He has now been sentenced to up to 15 years in state prison.

Power 96 News for Tuesday March 10th, 2026.

03/10/2026

The Albert Lea City Council opted to approve $166,750 in improvements, far from the full $1.9 million dollar project presented at the last meeting. Improvements passed were for new keys and a monitoring system, as well as sidewalk repairs to eliminate tripping hazards, sealing windows that had been leaking and ordering cubicles for the lower level to replace the current ones that are not OSHA compliant. Rigg said the project will be primarily funded by the building maintenance fund and a mix of utility reserves. The council voted 7-0 on the smaller list of improvements after voting 5-2 against the 1.9 million dollar option.

A collision occurred around 9:10 pm Monday at the intersection of Northbound Highway 218 and Twenty-First Avenue Northwest, involving two vehicles. The Minnesota State Patrol says a 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe, driven by a 17-year-old male, was traveling westbound on Twenty-First Avenue when it collided with a 2019 Hyundai Tucson, driven by 52-year-old Oman Ogalla Oman of Mankato, who was heading northbound on Highway 218. The airbags did not deploy in the Santa Fe, and the driver reported no injuries. Both Oman and his passenger, Ariet Okway Didumo, 52 of Mankato, were wearing seat belts. Oman was uninjured, while Didumo sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Mayo Clinic-Austin for treatment. The road conditions were dry at the time of the collision. Austin Police Department and Mower County ambulance services responded to the scene.

Charges have been dropped against a man accused of a bloody knife attack. Naing Lin, 42 of Austin, was charged with second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon and domestic assault. The Austin Police Department says Lin attacked another man twice on September 14, 2025. Police said the victim was flown to Mayo Clinic in Rochester for medical treatment. The Mower County Sheriff's Office says the victim and primary witness in the case have disappeared and not responded to attempts to contact them. Prosecutors say without their cooperation, it would be impossible to prove Lin guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and they filed to dismiss all charges against him.

A former Wells man was sentenced Monday to just shy of a combined two years in the Faribault County Jail for criminal sexual conduct with a minor he mentored and coached. Michael Allen Swanson, 56, in December entered an Alford plea to two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, involving a victim under 16 years by a person in a significant relationship. One count was for incidents from June 2017 through July 2019, and the other was for incidents between mid-August 2019 through mid-August 2021. Sixteen other counts - one count of first-degree criminal sexual conduct involving penetration or contact of a victim under 16, including multiple acts over time, along with 15 counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct - were dismissed.

Power 96 News for Monday March 9th, 2026

03/09/2026

An Albert Lea man was sentenced Friday to four years and one month in prison for fleeing from a courtroom while in custody in December, assaulting a deputy and then running down the main courthouse stairs before he was tased by another deputy. Jacob Steven Segura, 27, in January pleaded guilty to one count of attempted escape from custody as part of a plea agreement with the Freeborn County Attorney"s Office. He also pleaded guilty to domestic assault in two other cases involving a family member in one case and his girlfriend in another. The 49-month sentence was tied to the escape from custody charge, while he was sentenced to 30 months for each of the domestic assault charges. All three sentences will be served concurrently. Segura will receive credit for 79 days already served in prison on the two domestic charges and 78 days on the escape from custody charge. He will serve two-thirds of his sentence in prison with the other one-third on supervised release if he has no infractions in the prison.

The Albert Lea City Council will evaluate four project options for City Hall at its meeting on Monday after rejecting a $1.9 million remodel proposal for the building, which is nearly 60 years old. The council faces urgency, as the low bid for the project expires on March 20. If the council does not act by then, they will need to rebid the project. They have 4 options that they will discuss to maintain City Hall at 221 East Clark Street, with some enhancing safety and efficiency. The council will also recognize two police officers for recovering a missing child and vote on acquiring a property to remove a hazardous structure. Meetings will be held at City Hall, 221 East Clark Street, with a work session at 5:30 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7 p.m. Ward 3 Councilor Ted Herman may join online while out of town.

A Freeborn County man has been sentenced in two theft cases. Alan Edward Christensen, 43 of Albert Lea, pleaded guilty to felonoy theft of a motor vehicle and gross misdemeanor theft. Law enforcement says Christensen shoplifted a total of $654.60 work of items from Home Depot on June 19, 2025, then stole an ATV worth about $25,000 on August 14, 2025.Christensen has been ordered to spend three years on supervised probation, perform 40 hours of community work service, and pay a total of $300 in fines.

A Mason City man has received a 13-year federal prison sentence after pleading guilty to conspiracy and distribution charges related to methamphetamine. Federal prosecutors say between January 2024 and February 2025, Kevin Knight, 45, participated in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy in Mason City. Investigators say they documented his involvement in the drug trade and that Knight's criminal history includes thefts, forgeries, burglaries, domestic abuse assault, and four previous methamphetamine-related convictions. Judge Leonard T. Strand sentenced Knight to 156 months in prison, followed by a five-year supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Knight remains in the custody of the United States Marshal awaiting transfer to a federal prison. The Cerro Gordo County Sheriff"s Department and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement investigated the case, with prosecution by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons.

Power 96 News for Friday March 6th, 2026.

03/06/2026

Fifth Ward Councilor Keith Van Beek announced Thursday he is running as a Republican candidate for the Minnesota House of Representatives in District 23A. The seat is currently held by Rep. Peggy Bennett, who has announced her campaign for governor.

Van Beek said his campaign will focus on restoring accountability in state government, expanding opportunities for young people through strong rural schools and ensuring local businesses can grow without unnecessary mandates from St. Paul, according to a press release.

He also emphasized his campaign will be grounded in core constitutional principles, including a firm commitment to protecting the Second Amendment. Van Beek also expressed appreciation for Bennett"s service to the district. Van Beek was elected to the Albert Lea City Council in 2024. In that role, he has emphasized transparency, fiscal responsibility, and open communication with residents while working to ensure local government remains responsive and accountable to the people it serves.

The North Iowa Children's Museum (NICM) is announcing its official permanent home in Clear Lake. NICM says the location at 2405 15th Avenue N in the Fieldstone Neighborhood behind Culver's offers "exceptional visibility from the interstate, convenient access for families, proximity to dining and retail amenities, and ample space for future expansion." In partnership with Pritchard Companies, NICM says the new site will introduce an automotive-themed exhibit that will feature a hands-on mechanic shop to encourage early STEM learning through imaginative play.

A Florida man was charged Tuesday in Freeborn County District Court in what authorities say was part of an alleged ATM ‘jackpotting" attempt in Albert Lea. David Santa Cifuentes, 26, of Tampa, Florida, was charged with one count of aiding and abetting unauthorized computer access-penetrate security system or electronic terminal, a gross misdemeanor. Court documents state officers responded to an ATM alarm going off at 4:49 a.m. Monday at Accentra Credit Union at 1619 Blake Ave. in Albert Lea. The ATM had been the subject of jackpotting attacks on three previous occasions. The court complaint stated the sergeant who responded was aware that jackpotting ATMs is a rising issue, often carried out by groups from out of state. One member of the group opens an ATM with a key to get security information, while another member observes law enforcement"s response before returning to plant software that will give access to the money kept in the ATM. The sergeant located a vehicle in the AT&T parking lot, about 150 yards from the bank, where it is normally uncommon to find a vehicle at night. When the sergeant approached the vehicle, he noted movement in the driver"s seat. There also were fresh tracks in the snow from the tires and from footprints. The vehicle had Texas plates and was running. The individual in the front seat was reportedly laying in the front seat facing away from the door, and there was clothing covering the illuminated dash and screen. When the sergeant knocked on the door, the individual, later identified as Cifuentes, immediately sat up. The sergeant checked the man"s Florida driver"s license and found he had a Texas warrant for his arrest. When police searched his car, the man received text messages on his phone, which was reportedly in plain view. The messages, in Spanish, translated to, “brother, leave me a message when they release you,” and “Call Martin, he is waiting for you,” according to court documents. The sergeant stated this indicated to him that he believed he was being observed by other members of the jackpotting group. Cifuentes was also reportedly found to be wearing the same coat as the man captured on camera by the credit union, who was seen unlocking the ATM and taking a picture of the inside. In court Tuesday, Freeborn County District Court Judge Christy Hormann set unconditional bail at $6,000, and conditional bail at $2,000. Cifuentes is next slated to appear in court March 12.

Power 96 News for Thursday March 5th, 2026.

03/05/2026

The Freeborn County Sheriff"s Office is asking for help from Clarks Grove residents for information tied to possible gunshots fired Tuesday night in the city. The Sheriff"s Office is asking residents to check their security cameras between 10 and 11 p.m. on Tuesday at which time several gunshots were reported in northeast Clarks Grove. The department received a report at 11:16 p.m. Tuesday tied to gunshots that had occurred right before 10:30 p.m. The reporting party stated there were six shots fired followed by a pause, followed by six more shots. The caller also reported seeing a vehicle leaving the area at the same time, though they were unsure if it was related. People are asked to call the non-emergency dispatch line at 507-377-5200, extension 5, if they see anything worth sharing on camera footage or if they have any information regarding the gunshots.

A Dodge County man facing two counts of attempted murder is taking a plea deal. Johnathan David Harris, 53 of Kasson, was arrested on April 11, 2025, after law enforcement was called to the 500 block of 1st Avenue NW in Kasson. Investigators say Harris tried to stab a woman with a knife during an argument and when another male tried to stop him, Harris tried to stab him. Law enforcement says the other male received several cuts to his hand and had to be taken to the hospital for treatment. Harris was charged with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of second-degree assault, and domestic assault. He's pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree assault. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 6 in Dodge County District Court.

Governor Kim Reynolds has directed all flags in Iowa to be flown at half-staff in honor of Major Jeffery O"Brien of Waukee and Sgt. Declan Coady of West Des Moines, who were killed in action on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait. Both soldiers were part of the 103rd Sustainment Command in Des Moines. Flags will remain at half-staff on the State Capitol Building and across the Capitol Complex, as well as on all public buildings and facilities throughout Iowa. The governor encourages individuals, businesses, and local governments to do the same as a sign of respect.

An Austin man is facing criminal charges after a drive by shooting that took place on February 27. Travis Jon Hatfield, 33, faces charges of Dangerous weapons - drive by shooting toward a person, Dangerous weapons - drive by shooting toward occupied motor vehicle or building, Two counts of second-degree assault - dangerous weapon, Reckless discharge of a firearm within a municipality, Carry a pistol without permit - first offense, Carrying a pistol while under the influence of alcohol. According to court documents, law enforcement was dispatched to a home on the 300 block of 13th Street NE in Austin at around 12:16 a.m. on February 27 for a report of gunshots. When officers talked to one of the victims, he said Hatfield had a gun, had shot it in his face, was actively drinking and driving, and fled the area in a gold/tan Nissan Rogue. While at the jail, officers noticed Hatfield"s eyes were bloodshot, his speech was slurred, and he smelled of alcohol. It was also determined that Hatfield did not have a permit to carry a gun.

Power 96 News for Wednesday March 4th, 2026.

03/04/2026

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced that prescribed burns will take place this spring across several wildlife management areas in Worth, Winnebago, Wright, Hancock, Cerro Gordo, and Franklin counties. Areas scheduled for prescribed burns are Hogsback Marsh, Wood Duck Marsh, Myre Slough, Pilot Knob, Good Neighbors Marsh, Harmon Lake and Rice Lake in Winnebago County. And Elk Creek, Grass Lake and Winans Creek in Worth County The DNR says the aim of these burns is to enhance wildlife habitats, control invasive species, and maintain native plant communities. They also help reduce wildfire risks. Each burn can range from a few acres to several hundred acres, and areas are typically burned every four to five years. Prescribed burns are planned to start in mid to late morning and finish by late afternoon or early evening, from mid-March to mid-May. If conditions are not met, burns may be rescheduled for the fall.

Austin residents will have to be more careful where they park after the city council increased the punishment for violations. According to the Austin Police Department, the city council recently raised fines for parking violations from $10 to $25. For snow emergencies, the fine has been raised from $25 to $50. The risk of vehicles getting towed is also still on the table. Police are also reminding residents to not use city streets as a place to park junk vehicles, campers, or trailers. These new fine totals are effective immediately.

March is the month to connect with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources" fisheries offices across the state. The agency is updating fisheries management plans for 197 lakes in 52 counties in 2026 and is inviting Minnesotans to reach out and share their input. The DNR encourages people with thoughts on the future management of a lake with a scheduled plan update to call or email the area fisheries office for that water body before March 31. Area fisheries teams will consider the public"s observations and comments as they develop updates for each management plan. Local lakes scheduled for the management plan include Freeborn and Beaver lakes.

Stealing a truck is sending a Mason City man to prison. Kaleb Martinez Prestby, 38, pleaded guilty to second-degree theft. The Mason City Police Department says Prestby stole a 2019 Ford Ranger parked at River II Apartments on January 25. The theft was reported around 12:50 am and police say Prestby lost control of the truck as he drove away, hitting a median and a light pole before stopping in a yard near Sixth Street and South Adams Avenue. Mason City police officers say they conducted a high-risk stop and took Prestby into custody. Prestby has now been sentenced to up to five years in state prison.

Power 96 News for Tuesday March 3rd, 2026.

03/03/2026

Police continue to investigate the deaths of three adults found in a home on Saturday. Officers discovered the bodies in the 500 block of 509 South Adams Avenue shortly before 5:00 p.m. Police say the deceased individuals have been identified as Larry Gene Walker, 73, the property owner; Shey William Pals, 39; and Morgan Lee Tarr, 33, all from Mason City. Family members were notified the same evening. The Iowa Medical Examiner's Office will conduct autopsies. Evidence from the scene is being processed, with laboratory analyses underway. The Mason City Police Department says final reports may take several weeks to complete, and causes of death will be announced once the investigation concludes.

An 82-year-old man was injured Friday evening after he was struck by a vehicle on the 300 block of Clark Street. Thomas Richard Laite of Albert Lea was taken to Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea for treatment. According to police, Laite was crossing Clark Street, traveling southbound, when he was struck by a 2015 Nissan Rogue traveling eastbound driven by Luvern Robert Rasmussen, 83, of Albert Lea at 6:37 p.m. Rasmussen told police he did not see the pedestrian in the roadway and attempted to stop upon noticing him but was unable to avoid the collision. No citations were issued.

The individuals involved in a fatal auto collision Saturday in Mower County have been identified. The Mower County Sheriff's OFfice says Ana Farias De Torres, 73 of Waterloo, Iowa, was trapped in a passenger car after the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the passenger car, Ignacio Torres Valencia, 69 of Waterloo, IA, suffered serious injuries. A second passenger in the car, Giovanni Hilario Torres-Birrueta, 26 of Waterloo, IA, suffered minor injuries. A pickup truck driver, Kenneth Duane Haarstad, 60 of Austin, also suffered minor injuries. The Sheriff's Office says the collision happened around 1:22 pm Saturday at the intersection of 610th Avenue and 170th Street when the southbound bound and northbound pickup truck crashed. The truck was towing a flatbed trailer at the time and the car caught fire. Weather and roadway conditions are believed to have been contributing factors in the crash.

The Blue Earth County Sheriff"s Office is asking for the public"s help in finding a missing person. According to BECSO, 84-year-old George Bruce Door of rural Mankato was reported missing on Sunday, March 1. He was last seen at his home around 8 a.m. on Saturday, February 28. Door"s landlord reported that he and his black 2007 Chrysler Town and Country minivan, MN license plate HHL901, were gone later that same morning. Investigators checking multiple areas in Blue Earth and Nicollet counties have been unable to locate Door or his vehicle. Anyone with information is encouraged to call BECSO at 507-304-4863.

Power 96 News for Monday March 2nd, 2026.

03/02/2026

Age Friendly Freeborn County invites the public to hear a free educational presentation on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Frauds and scams are on the rise, with some targeting older adults. There are ways to protect yourself and your personal information. Come and learn how to detect, prevent and report fraud and what to do if you are scammed. Learn about the numerous types of fraud including dating, IRS, jury duty, warrant for arrest, computer, mail, check, credit card, abuse and Medicare fraud. Age Friendly Freeborn County is partnering with Minnesota Aging Pathways and the Albert Lea Police Department for the two presentations, one at 9:00 a.m. and one at 11:00 a.m.   Nicole Cummings, from Minnesota Aging Pathways and Lieutenant Jeff Strom and Detective Luke Tuzinski from the Albert Lea Police Department will be the presenters. No registration is required for this event. The presentation will be live streamed and posted on Albert Lea Healthcare Coalition and Age Friendly Freeborn County"s Facebook pages.

Emergency responders discovered three dead adults in a home on South Adams Avenue just before 5 pm Saturday. The Mason City Fire Department and Mason City Police Department were dispatched to the scene following reports of unresponsive individuals inside the residence. Investigators say there were no signs of foul play or struggle. A Medical Examiner's Investigator arrived to assist with the investigation. The area surrounding the home has been secured and will remain so as investigations continue. Mason City Police Chief Mike McKelvey says no further information will be available until Monday to allow for proper notifications and investigative procedures.

A devastating two-vehicle crash occurred around 1:22 pm Saturday in Mower County at the intersection of 610th Avenue and 170th Street. The Mower County Sheriff's Office says a passenger car collided with a pickup truck, resulting in the car catching fire. Deputies say the passenger car, driven by a 69-year-old man from Waterloo, Iowa, was traveling south when it hit the northbound pickup, which was towing a flatbed trailer. The crash resulted in serious injuries to the driver, who was taken to Mayo Clinic Health System - Austin. The Sheriff's Office says a passenger in the car, a 73-year-old woman from Waterloo, was trapped and later pronounced dead at the scene despite emergency efforts. Another passenger, a 26-year-old man from Waterloo, suffered major injuries and was also transported to the hospital. The pickup's driver, a 60-year-old man from Austin, sustained minor injuries and did not need hospitalization. Weather and roadway conditions were observed at the scene and are believed to have been contributing factors in the crash.

Starting Tuesday, spring load restrictions will be enforced on Freeborn County highways. The restrictions will take effect when load restriction signs are posted. According to state statute, all gravel roads in Freeborn County will be limited to five tons per axle during this period. Highway maps with the load postings can be found on the Freeborn County website under the Public Works Department.