Blackduck MN

Over 30 Northlanders from more than 20 schools earned "Spotlight on the Arts" awards to have their work featured at the state festival May 9, 2026, at Wayzata High School.

The qualifiers span 27 Northern Minnesota teams and all 13 categories. Over 30 are repeat qualifiers, including five medalists and one reigning champion.

Beltrami County Emergency Management is seeking public input as it works to update its hazard mitigation plan for events like floods, drought and severe windstorms.

High school students whose parents or guardians are cooperative members are invited to submit an essay for a chance to attend the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., June 1-5, 2026.

After a lengthy public hearing and discussion, the City Council adopted its amended cannabis ordinance 4-1 to allow a business to move into the former Anderson Fabrics plant.

Plus: Essentia Health is touting an independent economic impact study of its operations around Brainerd and the Iron Range.

The Blackduck City Council hosted the first of two public hearings amending its cannabis ordinance after a cultivator expressed interest in the former Shade Store manufacturing plant.

The Council heard a proposal to bring in the industry and 150 jobs after the Shade Store closed manufacturing operations in 2025. But the cannabis ordinance would need changes.

More than 100 people crowded into the Beltrami County Board room in support of public libraries and the local museum as commissioners voted 4-1 to adopt its 2026 preliminary budget and levy.

Events this week include a car show in Grand Rapids, the Lakes Area Music Festival kickoff in Brainerd, Animal Tracks & Signs in Bagley and the Blackduck Woodcarvers Festival.