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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Map/DatawrapperThe Cass County, North Dakota, Coroner's Office reported that TeeJay Alvarez, 31, of Fosston, died June 9, 2026, as a result of injuries from a gunshot wound. -
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Graphic with Contributed Maps/National Weather ServiceThis means the potential for severe wind gusts of 75-80 mph or more, embedded tornadoes, hail up to the size of golf balls and locally heavy rainfall with flash flooding possible. -
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Contributed/U.S. Forest Service - Superior National ForestA few wilderness campsites may be closed, but there are no other closures in the Boundary Waters. There is currently a campfire ban within the area because of dry conditions. -
Contributed/Aitkin Youth Baseball Facebook pageThe Gobblers won a close 1-0 game against the top-seeded Duluth-Marshall to advance, while Red Lake County looks to defend the title and Grand Rapids makes its 6th-straight appearance. -
Contributed/Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning CenterA conservation easement will protect the property spanning forests, wetlands, cliffs and streams. Half of the protected acreage is considered to be "high biodiversity." -
Megan Buffington/KAXEThe comprehensive plan will help shape topics such as housing, transportation, economic development, parks and recreation, community facilities, infrastructure and taxes.
