MUSCAT, Oman (AP) - After more than two years in Iranian custody, two Americans convicted as spies took their first steps toward home Wednesday as they bounded down from a private jet and into the arms of family for a joyful reunion in the Gulf state of Oman.The families called this "the best day of our lives," and President Barack Obama said their release - under a $1 million bail-for-freedom deal - "wonderful news."

In general, most of northern Minnesota is now past peak, with much of central and southern Minnesota nearing or at peak fall color.

LITTLE FALLS - With graduation ceremonies Thursday, the seniors on the Brainerd Warrior girls' track and field team had one last hurrah before the end of their high school career.

BAXTER - With the Section 8AA seedings complete and the Central Lakes Conference champion already determined Tuesday's girls' soccer match between the Brainerd Warriors and Alexandria Cardinals was supposed to be a meaningless game.

IXONIA, Wis. (AP) - A senior citizens' trip to the Milwaukee botanical gardens turned into a fiery tragedy when their chartered bus slammed headfirst into a delivery van, killing five people and injuring 20.

Last Friday evening Baxter residents received an impressive full colored flyer in the mail from the newly formed "Baxter Consumer Coalition." I've received calls and concerns regarding this coalition and want to point out several issues that are packed into the flyer that was mailed out:

Wednesday marked an end of an era in Brainerd Warrior boys' tennis.

...on duty and authorities searched north Minneapolis for a suspect. Authorities received a call around 2:50 a.m. that reported shots fired and the blaring of a car horn. They arrived at the scene and found the Blue and White cab driver.

...not live up to their form of basketball playing. Brainerd running wild and long passes resulted in a defeat for the blue and white. 100 years ago (1904) "No, thank you," said Miss De Mure. "I don't care to meet any new young men...

By the time Tyler Jensen wrestles his final match for the Brainerd Warriors he may sport one of the best records ever compiled by an individual who has worn the blue and white.