Local and Regional News, Monday 3/23/2026
Minnesota taxpayers have an option to receive early payments of their Child Tax Credit.
According to the Minnesota Department of Revenue, filers can choose to receive part of their Child Tax Credit in advance when completing their income tax return.
Those who opt in on their 2025 return will receive a portion of their 2026 credit in three equal payments during the second half of the year, with the remaining balance issued when they file their 2026 taxes.
It’s important to note this choice does not carry over—taxpayers must select the advance payment option each year.
Officials also remind residents that if they owe other state taxes or government debts, those advance payments may be applied to outstanding balances.
A life-saving tool is being passed along to benefit the community.
An AED, originally awarded to the International Falls Police Department following a qualified save in 2024, has now been donated to the Ranier Rec Club.
The presentation took place Tuesday during the Ranier City Council meeting, where Sergeant Ballejo and Officer Lahmayer made the donation in honor of Kellie Adee.
The AED will now be available to help support safety and emergency response efforts within the Ranier community.
The International Falls Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of its 2026 Annual Awards Gala, recognizing outstanding businesses and community members.
This year also introduces a new Hospitality Award in partnership with the local visitors bureau.
The Chamber says nominations were record-breaking this year, highlighting strong community support.
The Annual Awards Gala is set for Thursday, April 23rd at The Thunderbird, with tickets available now through the Chamber.
Winter trail conditions remain largely unchanged this week at Voyageurs National Park, but warmer temperatures and recent rainfall have significantly impacted access across the park.
All ice roads are now closed for the season, and snowpack on frozen lake surfaces has been greatly reduced, leaving little to no coverage for snowmobiles. As a result, snowmobile trails are no longer being monitored or maintained, and riders are urged to use extreme caution.
Ski trails in shaded or wooded areas are still open, but freeze-thaw cycles have created very icy conditions. Visitors should be prepared for hard, slick surfaces.
Park officials remind everyone to check conditions before heading out and to remember that ice is never completely safe. Updated trail reports are available on the National Park Service website.
Severe Weather Awareness Week is coming up across Minnesota, running April 13th through the 17th, giving residents a chance to prepare for the upcoming storm season.
The annual campaign, coordinated by National Weather Service and state emergency officials, is designed to educate the public on severe weather risks and how to stay safe.
A key part of the week is the statewide tornado drills, scheduled for Thursday, April 16th at 1:45pm and again at 6:45 p–m. Outdoor warning sirens will sound during both drills, simulating a tornado warning.
Officials say Minnesota averages around 46 tornadoes each year, with most occurring between May and August.
Residents are encouraged to use the week to review emergency plans, practice safety procedures, and make sure preparedness kits are up to date.