Local briefs

A $12 million fund is being created for claims against Peanut Corp. of America, the processor at the center of a nationwide salmonella outbreak this year.

U.S. Bankruptcy Judge William E. Anderson agreed Thursday in Lynchburg, Va., to approve the fund, which is intended to settle claims by people sickened by peanuts traced to the company's Blakely, Ga., plant.

Bankruptcy trustee Roy Creasy said there are 114 claims, a number likely to rise as more claims are made. The outbreak sickened about 700 people and has been linked to at least nine deaths.

The money provided by Peanut Corp.'s insurers will be distributed based on the extent of victims' illnesses.

Some victims could still file lawsuits against firms that used the Lynchburg company's peanut butter and peanut paste. The deaths of three Brainerd residents was linked to the outbreak. - Associated Press

Coats for Kids drive planned

Kinship Partners is gearing up for the annual Coats for Kids giveaway. For those in need Coats for Kids will be in the Westgate Mall in the former Book World location. Distribution will be Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. On Oct. 31 distribution will be as follows: Coats and gear will be given out from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Children must be present and accompanied by a parent, guardian or adult Kinship partner. One coat per child will be given. From 1-4 p.m. on Oct. 31 and from 1-4 p.m. Nov. 1, winter outerwear will be given away as needed. For questions, call Kinship Partners at 829-4606.

Good clean coats, boots and snow pants are needed for all ages but especially for the elementary age group. Those who wish to donate may drop off donations at Crystal Cleaners until Oct. 26.

Coats for Kids is sponsored by Kinship Partners, BL Broadcasting and Crystal Cleaners.

Morrison County Board to meet Tuesday

LITTLE FALLS - The Morrison County Board will meet at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday in a planning session in the county board room at the Morrison County Government Center.

Agenda items include: Veteran home by Paul Froncak; public health report by Bonnie Paulsen; Rich Prairie Sewer District by Monte Eastvold; social service report by Steve Reger; ordinance review by Mark Anderson; Morrison County Record articles by Deb Gruber; and other business.