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… 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… 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… 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

Minnesota DNR has over $1 million in available funding for local causes The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has up to $1,060,000 available to local entities such as lake associations, watershed districts, cities, and counties, as well as Tribal governments, for the management of curly-leaf pondweed, Eurasian watermilfoil, flowering rush and/or starry stonewort. Funding comes… Read More

A benefit will be held for Pat and Debra Fink Friday, Dec. 5, beginning at 4:30 p.m., at the Frazee-Vergas VFW Post 7702. A silent auction will be held along with gaming and live music during an evening of support for Pat and Debra. Pat Fink Band shirts will also be available for purchase. Proceeds… Read More

A benefit for Scott “Bubba” King will be held Saturday, December 6, from 3-7 p.m., at the Vergas Event Center. Proceeds from the free-will dinner, silent auction, horse races, and raffle will support the King family. Bubba was diagnosed with Stage IV Metastatic NSCLC Adenocarcinoma.  On Friday, Oct. 10, an X-ray revealed  a mass in… Read More

5 years ago Frazee-Vergas Forum December 1, 2020 While people cope with the changed world as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to run its course, the area pounds also had to make changes to daily routines. Alyssa Cahoon, the shelter manager for the Humane Society of the Lakes, emphasized the opportunity to adopt and volunteer are… Read More