SNAP benefits delayed due to government shutdown
The government shutdown that began on Oct. 1 caused the delay of SNAP benefits, a nutritional assistance program for low-income families and residents. While two federal judges ruled to tap into emergency funds to provide the funds, according to Politico, benefits could take days to weeks to redistribute. Minnesota restaurants are responding to the delays by providing free food and community dinners. Hope Breakfast Bar in St. Paul will offer free pancakes to families in need between 7–9 a.m. The Eggroll Queen food truck will also be organizing community meals throughout the lapse in benefits.
Edina Parks and Recreation hosts buckthorn drop-off
On Oct. 26, Edina hosted its last fall buckthorn drop-off at the Braemar golf dome. The invasive shrub buckthorn has grown significantly throughout North American forests. To combat buckthorn growth, Edina Parks and Recreation has hosted four different drop-off events: Oct. 18–19 and Oct. 25–26. The drop-off was free but required a photo ID with a current Edina address. The event was organized by Edina Forester Luther Overholt. To continue combating buckthorn growth, Edina will host another buckthorn drop in the spring of 2026.
St. Paul Union Depot hosts Twin Cities Book Festival
The Twin Cities Book Festival, a free event in St. Paul, will happen on Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Organized by the literary organization Rain Taxi, the event will host dozens of writers, including Eoin Colfer, author of the “Artemis Fowl” series, who will present his new book “Firefox Moon.” Approximately 6,000 people visit the event annually, which will include panels, a used book sale that supports Rain Taxi, children’s activities, and food trucks. The event moved its location to the St. Paul Union Depot, at 214 4th St. E.
Vernon Avenue bridge development set to finish by mid-November
The Vernon Avenue bridge over Highway 100 is in its final weeks of reopening, according to the city of Edina. The interchange project started in April of 2025, closing Vernon on April 3. While the entire project isn’t complete, all on and off ramps to Highway 100 will reopen as the construction season is ending. In addition, Vernon Avenue, Gus Young Lane, and Interlachen Boulevard will all reopen once construction work stops in 2025. The bridge construction will be revisited in spring of 2026, with a tentative start date of April.
This piece was originally published in Zephyrus’ print edition on Nov. 6, 2025
