New program is geared to people seeking public office, leadership positions The Rural Advocacy and Public Leadership Program is a free six-month leadership and advocacy course designed for people interested in strengthening democracy and supporting the development of good governance in their local rural community. Participants will meet for four hours one Saturday a month from… Read More

WCI is partnering with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) to distribute approximately $1.15 million in PROMISE Act Grants to businesses and nonprofits in west central Minnesota. This program was created by the Minnesota Legislature to support businesses and nonprofits that face ongoing economic challenges. Grants will range from $10,000 to $50,000. Eligibility This is… Read More

Lake Agassiz Regional Library (LARL) is pleased to announce the return of its “Food for Fines” program, offered region-wide throughout the month of December. This popular library amnesty initiative provides customers with a simple, meaningful way to clear late fees while giving back to their communities. During the entire month, patrons may bring their overdue items… Read More

5 years ago Frazee-Vergas Forum December 8, 2020 Fresh cut Christmas trees are seeing a rebirth of popularity, especially this year. Since Mark Vetter began selling the holiday trees decades ago, 2020 is shaping up to be the “best year ever” for sales. Typically he sells between 300 and 400 trees. This year, he expects to sell… Read More

Otter Tail County celebrated the completion of its new Perham Highway Garage during an open house on Tuesday, Dec. 3. The facility represents a significant investment in infrastructure and the collaborative planning between county leadership, contractors, and highway department staff. “My dad, as a former county commissioner in the 60s, was asked for a new garage… Read More

By Chad Koenen Publisher Grace Hamm captured first place at the Dennis Kaatz Memorial tournament at the Wadena-Deer Creek in rather convincing fashion on Saturday. The freshman secured a major decision in the opening round of the tournament, before securing a pin over Addison Hillukka of Wadena-Deer Creek at 2:27 and over eventual runner up Molly Ferguson… Read More

Photos by Chad Koenen Despite cold temperatures and a bit of a breeze, the streets of Frazee were lined on Saturday night for the annual Snow Plow Parade that was held in conjunction with the Merry Frazee Christmas festivities. Among the parade entries was Santa and Mrs.  Claus (above), as well as a number of snow… Read More

Photos by Robert Williams Above: Bayleigh Lautenschlager, owner of True Blue Flower Company, discusses holiday wreath decor at Refine Homes during Saturday’s Small Town Christmas celebration in Vergas. Below: Horse-drawn carriage rides are a staple of nearly every celebration in Vergas, including Small Town Christmas.

Water user fee decision finalized By Robert Williams Editor Liquor Store Manager Amanda Young reported on her attendance at the Regional Minnesota Municipal Beverage Association (MMBA) meeting where overall sales were discussed. Most liquor stores are down 1-2 percent for the year, Young stated. However, year to date sales at Third Crossing are actually up. Highlights for November:  •… Read More

Free painting classes to be offered during run at Corner Collective By Robert Williams Editor Sharon Trieglaff Jons is an artist of many mediums and most of those will be on display and for sale at CornerStone during the month of December. Through her business “Just Bliss” and with the help of a Lakes Region Arts Council… Read More