BEMIDJI — The Northwest Minnesota Foundation is embarking on a significant new chapter with the launch of its new strategic framework: People & Connections.
"At its heart, People & Connections reflects what matters most: strengthening relationships, investing in neighbors, and working side by side to build stronger communities," a foundation news release stated.
Foundation leaders emphasized the importance of strategic planning, saying it gives structure and clarity to move from big ideas to real impact.
"It helps us stay focused, make thoughtful choices, and align our efforts around what matters most. By aligning around shared priorities, the framework provides a clear roadmap for turning big ideas into real impact," the release stated.
The foundation invites volunteers, partners, local leaders and community members to come learn more about the new framework at one of five Lunch and Learn events planned throughout the region.
Lunch and Learns will be noon-1 p.m. All events are free, but registration is required.
- Monday, Oct. 13: Northwest Service Cooperative, 114 1st St. W., Thief River Falls
- Tuesday, Oct. 21: Roseau City Center, 121 Center St. E., Roseau
- Thursday, Oct. 23: Bernie's, 121 Demers Ave., East Grand Forks
- Monday, Nov. 3: Shooting Star Casino, 777 S Casino Road, Mahnomen
- Tuesday, Nov. 4: Northwest Minnesota Foundation, 201 Third St. NW, Bemidji
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The community solar garden program created by Hortman’s legislation was the first in the country. The program had bipartisan support and became a national model.
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And: Park Rapids man faces third charge for threatening lawmakers; former state Sen. Justin Eichorn's trial pushed to June; Warroad boys win state hockey title, and Kelliher/Northome, Mountain Iron-Buhl and Rock Ridge to compete in girls basketball tourney.
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The Kelliher/Northome Mustangs' only loss this season was in December 2025 to Mountain Iron-Buhl, 100-90, and the Rangers' only loss was in February to Rock Ridge, 79-67.
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In seeking to move the date, Eichorn waived his rights to a speedy trial, but said he does intend to proceed to a jury trial.
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Warroad and Moorhead won the 2026 boys hockey titles, marking the first back-to-back all Northland champions in the two-class era.
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Prosecutors now allege John Tobias, 58 of rural Park Rapids, also left a threatening voicemail for state Rep. Krista Knudsen of Lake Shore.
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MnDOT staff will answer questions and collect feedback for an ongoing study of the high-traffic area connecting neighborhoods, recreators and businesses.
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A GoFundMe page stated 35-year-old Ashley Kittelson leaves behind three young children and she dedicated her life to serving others.