Local and Regional News, Thursday 5/7/2026

Minnesota is preparing to ban cryptocurrency kiosks statewide amid growing concerns about scams targeting consumers. Governor Tim Walz signed the law this week, requiring crypto kiosks to go offline by August first and removed completely by the end of the year.
State officials say Minnesota has seen more than 130 reported crypto kiosk scam complaints since 2023, totaling nearly one million dollars in losses. The machines are commonly found in gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores.
Consumer advocates with AARP Minnesota warn scammers often pressure victims into sending money through the kiosks, calling it a major red flag.
Officials say people can still make cryptocurrency transactions through regulated online platforms once the ban takes effect.

A longtime downtown business is celebrating another busy spring season in International Falls. Masons on Main is highlighting Mother’s Day specials this week while continuing a family retail tradition that spans more than 30 years.
Owner Nancy Imhof says the business began as Harold’s Men’s Store, started by her grandfather, before evolving into the shop many Borderland residents know today.

Imhof says the store is stocked with colorful spring fashion, purses, jewelry, cosmetics, footwear, and tuxedo rentals as the busy wedding and event season begins.

Masons on Main is also running a Mother’s Day promotion this week with 25 percent off all ladies tops, plus a chance to register to win a one-hundred-dollar gift card for mom.

Imhoff also thanked the community for continuing to support local downtown businesses through the years.

Workers at Packaging Corporation of America in International Falls have approved a new four-year labor agreement following two weeks of negotiations. Members of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Locals W-33 and 760 joined four other unions in ratifying the contract.
The deal includes 12-and-a-half percent in general wage increases, protection of current health insurance benefits, improvements to scheduling and grievance procedures, and better paid personal time language.
Union leaders say the agreement reflects months of preparation and strong cooperation among the unions representing workers at the mill. The contract is retroactive to May first and runs through April of 2030.