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 North Central Research and Outreach Center helped test our state fruit for winter hardiness, a step in its eventual release as the University of Minnesota's first apple variety. -
And: Kids Count on Us Bemidji to host an affordability forum; MnDOT Hwy. 73 corridor meeting planned for Chisholm; Essentia Health-Fosston tree walk fundraiser is Sunday; and mental health care is scarce for rural BIPOC Minnesotans.
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Laurie Kramer is a professor of applied psychology at Northeastern University in Boston and an expert in sibling relationships and managing strategies for family conflict.
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Ekaterina Bolovtsova via PexelsItasca County Attorney Jacob Fauchald expects the case to eventually go to trial, but there may be more legal maneuvering before then. Martin's next appearance is set for February 2026. -
Laurie Kramer is a professor of applied psychology at Northeastern University in Boston and an expert on sibling relationships and managing strategies for family conflict. -
KAXE/Charlie MitchellBrian Pelander of Alden Township was fatally injured when a tree fell by him the morning of Nov. 26, 2025. -
Contributed/Reed Olson for MN 2A Facebook pageThe executive director of the Nameless Coalition for the Homeless and former Beltrami County commissioner posted a video on social media, saying he will seek the seat. -
Here's a list of meals across the region. All meals are Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025, unless otherwise noted. -
Plus: New bridge opens over High Falls in Tettegouche State Park; grants aim to prevent garbage and waste on the ice from polluting Minnesota's water bodies, and the Beltrami County Historical Society seeks committee members for new exhibit.
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Contributed/Minnesota Department of Natural ResourcesThe new bridge is 5 feet taller to make it more resilient to high flooding. The previous bridge was built in 1988 and closed in 2022 after severe flood damage.
