By Matthew Johnson Reporter The Wolf Lake City Council was informed during its Tuesday, Nov. 18, regular monthly meeting that the Wolf Lake Fire Department (WLFD) has responded to 58 calls for the year so far, which is 39 percent more than the department’s 10-year average, reported Wolf Lake Fire Chief Brock Anderson.  ¶  Chief Anderson… Read More

Essentia, a national leader in value-based care, underscored the importance of strengthening rural health care ahead of awareness day on Nov. 20 In the lead-up to National Rural Health Day on Nov. 20, Essentia Health highlighted its commitment to strengthening rural health care. Essentia has shared stories and highlighted innovative programs designed to keep care close to… Read More

Santa to visit local youth at Frazee Event Center By Chad Koenen Publisher The holiday spirit will be on full display this weekend in Frazee for the annual Merry Frazee Christmas celebration. The annual Christmas celebration will begin on Thursday night with a piano concert at Corner Collective from 7-9 p.m., before a bulk of the… Read More

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has released a study of state trail visitors. The survey engaged more than 2,200 trail visitors during the 2024 summer season, with surveyors talking with trail visitors on site at paved state trails throughout Minnesota. There were also 900 post-visit surveys collected. The survey showed a high level of satisfaction… Read More

New business focuses on advanced marine electronics By Greta Hentges West Central Initiative When Matt Edmondson officially opened DL Boatworks on October 6, he introduced a level of marine expertise that has already caught the attention of boaters across the Detroit Lakes area. With a strong background in marine service and electronics—and support from West Central Initiative’s loan program—Edmondson is building… Read More

Abdirashid Bixi Dool, 36, has been charged with wire fraud and money laundering for his role in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme. Between March 2021 and February 2022, Dool reportedly claimed to serve 6,000 meals a day to children in Pelican Rapids, more than twice the town’s total population. Most of the $1.1 million… Read More

The complete streets reconstruction project on Highway 59 and Highway 108 in Pelican Rapids is wrapping up, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. All lanes, entrances and sidewalks are now open, but motorists should watch for workers who may still be on-site for finishing touches and final cleanup. • Work began on the $22.8 million… Read More

Application open Dec. 1 to Jan. 15 for $10,000-$50,000 grants  On December 1, West Central Initiative, in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), will launch an application for PROMISE Act Grants to support businesses and nonprofits in west central Minnesota. This is the second and final year of the PROMISE Act… Read More

Fisher, martin, bobcat trapping opens December 13 Hunting pheasants, ruffed grouse, squirrels or rabbits offers opportunities to enjoy the Minnesota outdoors as winter begins. “Winter is a fun time to get out in the crisp air and hunt small game,” said Benji Kohn, volunteer mentor program coordinator with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. “These hunts can… Read More

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is encouraging railroads, rail shippers, cities and counties to apply for up to $4 million in state grant funding for projects that enhance freight rail service across the state. The grants aim to support initiatives that strengthen local or statewide economic development. Funding is available through the 2025 Minnesota Rail… Read More