Bemidji Now News Bites

Larissa Explains it All: When the Rubber Hits the Road

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 17:40:22 -0000

Larissa Explains it All: Where the Rubber Meets the Road

🚜 Rail Corridor!

🚜 Jail Project!

🚜 Code of Conduct!

🚜 Larissa Learns All About Fire!

🚜 Cone Alert!

Larissa Explains it All: Jails and Taxes and Bears, Oh My!

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 17:25:17 -0000

Larissa Explains it All: Jails and Taxes and Bears, Oh My!

🐻 Beltrami County votes on new jail site

🐻 Bemidji City Council talks 2024 budget

🐻 Bear Encounter!

🐻 The Case of the Ruby Red Slippers

🐻 Riding the School Bus

🐻 Blotter Report!

Larissa Explains it All: The Smoke of Saskatchewan

Wed, 17 May 2023 17:32:26 -0000

Larissa Explains it All: The Smoke of Saskatchewan

Topics:

🔥Canada's on Fire

🔥No connection without annexation

🔥 Quest for City Manager

🔥 Defining Art

🔥 What's next on "People Who Go to Work Earlier Than I Do"

Larissa Explains it All: The Return

Mon, 08 May 2023 19:39:06 -0000

Larissa Explains it All, The Return!

Topics:

🎈Where in the World was Larissa Donovan?

🎈Back to Reality (5:35)

🎈MMIW (7:52)

🎈Trek North's K-12 Liasion (11:43)

🎈Recreational Marijuana (13:35)

🎈Cone Season

🎈Blotter!

Larissa Explains it All Week 9

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 17:26:25 -0000

Week 9 of the Larissa Explains it All Podcast!

Topics:

What's up, City Hall?

The Bird is the Word

Women's History Month wrap up!

Egg-centric Blotter Correspondent visit

Larissa Explains it All Week 8

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 19:33:17 -0000

The meetings and motions continue! Topics covered include recaps of Bemidji City Council, Bemidji School Board and Beltrami County Board meetings, clips from interviews and some of those meetings, some reflections from my trip to the Sugar Bush and our official blotter correspondent!

Larissa Explains it All Week 7

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 17:48:42 -0000

We're back for Week 7 of explaining things! Topics:

Northern Township proposal work session, extension of city services without further annexation
Ridealong with a Beltrami County Sheriff's Deputy!
The Charter Commission recommendation for a council code of conduct
Beltrami County Jail wrongful death lawsuit
Highlights from Chatabout last week, with Sheriff Jason Riggs and Mayor Prince.
Blotter Correspondent Randi Su Tanem

Larissa Explains it All Week 6

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 19:38:26 -0000

In this episode, we'll cover the "myriad of mayoral motions" at Monday's Bemidji City Council meeting, the Township grievances with Beltrami County's new road maintenance contract, a recap of the Red Lake State of the Band Address with a brief bonus history talk on why a portion of Upper Red Lake is currently excluded from the boundaries of the Red Lake Nation. Plus, a fun new segment with our Official Blotter Correspondent RandiSu Tanem!

Larissa Explains it All Week 5

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 16:48:43 -0000

Larissa's moving the release day officially to Mondays, recapping all that happened last week, starting with the Bemidji School Board meeting Monday, Feb. 27, swatting calls that targeted schools in the state including Bemidji, threats at Bemidji State University, the Ward 1 special election, and highlights from some interesting interviews.

Larissa Explains it All Week 4

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 18:01:08 -0000

Larissa is a couple days late on this episode, which will recap the State of the City Address and interesting updates from the Beltrami County Board meeting, as well as more fun items like blotter trends, and the quote of the week!

Larissa Explains it All Week 3

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 19:18:42 -0000

Week 3 of Larissa Explains it All! Topics discussed include the Minnesota Attorney General's announcement that they will assist in the review of the 2018 death of Beltrami County inmate Hardel Sherrell, with criminal charges possible; an update from the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force in the recent surge of fentanyl overdoses; there will be only one election for the special Ward 1 race with only two candidates; and the United Way of Bemidji Area's 2022 campaign exceeded its goal!

Larissa Explains it All Week 2

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 17:18:22 -0000

Legal approved the NEW NAME for the same weekly review of local news stories here in northern Minnesota. Topics covered include the Bemidji City Council-City Manager discussions, upcoming rental code ordinance amendment input session, the Red Lake-US Attorney's Office joint presser on fentanyl trafficking, the Huber Mill project, "Best Blotter Entry of the Week!" and "Quote of the Week!"

Chatabout Monday, Feb. 6 with Audrey Thayer

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 16:02:44 -0000

Bemidji City Council member At-Large Audrey Thayer joins Larissa Donovan to preview tonight's meeting of the Bemidji City Council.

Week in Review: 1/30-2/3

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 17:31:49 -0000

Larissa takes a deep dive on the latest order from the Minnesota Department of Corrections on the Beltrami County Jail; the special Ward 1 election in the City of Bemidji; the suspicious fire set last week and the ultimate arrest and charges for the suspect; some trends noticed in the blotter reports and Good News of the Week!

Friday, Dec. 16, 2022

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 17:19:45 -0000

A Park Rapids man is facing charges for a psilocybin grow operation discovered in his apartment; the Beltrami County Board will meet next week for the last time in 2022; Sanford Bemidji will have a new CEO and President come January; and a late-season CWD-management hunt will take place this weekend in the Bemidji area as well as southeastern Minnesota.

Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 17:39:22 -0000

Kevin Gish was named the administrator of the future Bemidji Veterans Home ahead of its expected opening in summer of 2023; Paul Bunyan Communications recently received a grant to expand broadband services in northern Minnesota; local kids shop with local heroes for the holidays during the Annual Heroes and Helpers event at Walmart; one citizen vacancy is available on the Greater Bemidji Area Joint Planning Commission; and 8.8 million people in the Midwest are expected to travel for the year-end holiday season, according to Triple A.

Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 18:04:51 -0000

The Beltrami County Board of Commissioners will discuss a resolution requesting a local option sales tax approval from the state legislature; fire officials are urging all Minnesotans to have working carbon monoxide detectors in their homes; Beltrami County's Reset program at the jail won an award from the Association of Minnesota Counties; health officials are urging parents to vaccinate their young children against COVID-19 as the feds recently approved a bivalent booster for kids 6 months and up; and the Beltrami County Board will set their final budget and levy for 2023 in tonight's meeting.

Monday, Dec. 12, 2022

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 18:02:33 -0000

The first meeting of the newly established Rail Corridor Development Committee is tonight; MDH is urging the latest COVID booster ahead of holiday gatherings; Blue Cross Blue Shield of MN awarded a $100,000 grant to fund scholarships to meet growing demand of LADCs; the George W. Neilson Foundation is accepting applications for internship funding; and the Region 2 Arts Council awarded over $48,000 in Arts Learning Grants.

Friday, Dec. 9, 2022

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 16:19:39 -0000

Charges of theft and fraud were dismissed against the former Beltrami County Dept. Head after learning of his death; a Beltrami County inmate is on life support in Fargo after an apparent suicide attempt; Beltrami K9 Rip was recently gifted a protective vest from "Vested Interest in K9s;" the Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce held their 115th Annual Gala Thursday night; and a report from Triple A shows drivers are taking more risky behaviors after a few years of downward trends.

Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 17:41:59 -0000

The former head of Beltrami County's IT department is facing 14 felony counts of theft and fraud, accused of using about $150,000 in county funds for personal purchases of tools and electronics; Beltrami County's domestic violence court received a grant to establish a supervised child visitation center; the MPCA is accepting grant applications for EV charging stations; three were injured after rear-ending a semitruck on Highway 64; and Harmony Foods Coop's "Buy Local-Give Local" campaign raised about $1,500 for two local initiatives.

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 17:48:43 -0000

The suspect of an armed bank robbery in Bemidji Tuesday is reportedly in custody after several hours of being on the lam; today is Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day; winter load increases for the north frost zone begin Friday; a former Beltrami County department head is facing 14 charges after a theft and fraud investigation; and the White Earth Reservation Business Council issued a moratorium on factory farming.

Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 16:49:55 -0000

The Bemidji City Council voted unanimously on three resolutions adopting the display of the Leech Lake, Red Lake and White Earth tribal flags in City Hall during their meeting Monday; Northland Vapors, which operates in Moorhead and Bemidji, is facing a civil lawsuit over their "Death by Gummy Bears" THC products; and MnDOT is once again bringing back the "Name a Snowplow" contest.

Monday, Dec. 5, 2022

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 16:44:51 -0000

A Solway man was sentenced to 12 years in a federal prison after a meth trafficking investigation; Red Lake Tribal Police removed drugs off the streets after two incidents last week; and a late-season hunt is scheduled in the Bemidji area as part of chronic wasting disease management.

Friday, Dec. 2, 2022

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 17:04:05 -0000

Bemidji City Council will consider resolutions authorizing the display of tribal flags in the City Hall lobby during their meeting Monday; and the MPCA is urging Minnesotans to do their part for our freshwater resources by salting smartly this winter.

Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 18:05:54 -0000

Hubbard County traffic stop led to seizure of methamphetamine and fentanyl; the Bemidji Police Department issued an updated release from the Night We Light DWI arrest; the Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual gala next week; a Red Lake man was sentenced to 12 years in prison for the murder of his cousin; and authorities in Cass County made an arrest after a traffic stop led to the discovery of a large quantity of methamphetamine.

Tueday, Nov. 29, 2022

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 16:49:29 -0000

One juvenile was arrested after a pursuit led to a crash off of Lake Boulevard's steep embankment into Lake Bemidji, leaving three injured passengers; and about 200 people required rescue off of Upper Red Lake when a large sheet of ice broke off the main shoreline.

Monday, Nov. 28, 2022

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 17:31:34 -0000

Bemidji Police Department reminds everyone to drive sober this holiday season after a DWI arrest at the Night We Light Parade; a Park Rapids woman was seriously injured in a hit-and-run crash Friday; and the Beltrami Electric Cooperative is returning $1.7 million to its members.

Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 17:44:17 -0000

The Bemidji School Board held first reading of several policy revisions as well as a preview about how the new five-period day will be rolled out with full implementation for the Bemidji High School Class of 2027; the City of Bemidji recently received its bond funding from the 2020 biennium for the water treatment plant; law enforcement officers across the state will be looking for impaired drivers this holiday season; and deadlines for the United Way of Bemidji Area's Holiday Gifts for Kids program are coming soon.

Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 17:47:27 -0000

A man was presumably killed in a house fire Sunday night in Port Hope Township; the Bemidji City Council tabled the amendments to the city's rental code in their meeting Monday with a revisit of the issue slated for Dec. 19; the friends and family of beloved Bemidji Middle School history teacher Mark Fodness have established a scholarship for Bemidji students; and the DNR is advising caution over Thanksgiving break around the early, treacherous ice.

Monday, Nov. 21, 2022

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 17:47:47 -0000

The Executive Director of the United Way of Bemidji Area Denae Alamano was named the 2022 Violence Free Minnesota Community Leader Inspire Award winner; Give to the Max day raised $34 million to nearly 6,500 organizations across the state; flu activity is increasing across the state; the Northwest Minnesota Foundation has grant funding available for equity and inclusion; and the DNR says hunters can check their CWD sample results online.

Friday, Nov. 18, 2022

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 17:09:04 -0000

Preview of Monday's Bemidji City Council meeting; Minnesota's unemployment rate remains low at 2.1 percent; MnDOT wraps up 2022 construction season with nearly 260 projects; and U.S. Senator Tina Smith introduces legislation aimed at cracking down on insurance company's "ghost networks" of mental health providers.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Senator Tina Smith

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 17:00:52 -0000

U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) recently introduced legislation that she says would improve access to mental health care. The bill would crack down on inaccurate healthcare provider listings or "ghost networks," and create stronger enforcement standards to protect those seeking mental health care.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Senator Tina Smith

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 17:00:52 -0000

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Senator Tina Smith

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 17:00:52 -0000

Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 18:36:45 -0000

Bemidji man facing new charges after crashing into two buildings and leading a police pursuit; a Thief River Falls man was seriously injured in a rollover crash Wednesday morning; Region 2 Arts Council awards grants; BiCAP YouthBuild participants learn tricks of the trade; and today is Give to the Max Day for schools and nonprofits in Minnesota.

Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2022

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 18:34:38 -0000

The Beltrami County Board of Commissioners voted to move forward with constructing a new jail; Sanford Bemidji Behavioral Health receives new grant; and Cass Lake is slated to receive some economic development funding from the state

Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 17:16:09 -0000

A Centerville man was killed in a non-firearms-related hunting accident in Cass County over opening weekend; the first suspected case of CWD in the Bemidji area was announced; canvassing of local election results will take place this week; United Way of Bemidji Area is encouraging businesses and groups to participate in a "Week of Caring"; and Casey Ward was named the new administrator of Sanford Health Bemidji's WoodsEdge Senior Living Campus.

Monday, Nov. 14, 2022

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 18:43:06 -0000

The Bemidji City Council will once again revisit the possibility of displaying tribal flags at City Hall in their work session tonight; today is the first day of Minnesota's Winter Hazard Awareness Week; a Fosston doctor was recently recognized with a Rural Health Lifetime Achievement Award; the American Academy of Pediatrics for the first time recognized the American Indian cradleboard as an appropriate sleep surface for infants during Infant Safe Sleep week; and the debate about legal recreational marijuana will likely ramp up this next legislative session with the DFL "trifecta" in state government.

Friday, Nov. 11, 2022

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 17:09:43 -0000

With the return of winter, AAA of Minnesota and Iowa has some helpful winter driving reminders; BSU's Dr. Kelly La Venture was recently honored for her work abroad by the Fulbright Scholarship Board and the U.S. Department of State; Sanford Health's Rebekah Fineday highlights some encouraging trends in healthcare as it relates to Native American Heritage Month; and the new DFL-controlled Senate announced new leaders after they won the one-vote majority in the midterms.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Sanford Health's Rebekah Fineday for Native American Heritage Month

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 16:11:09 -0000

Sanford Bemidji's Native American Community Advocate Rebekah Fineday recently highlighted some history and current events when it comes to healthcare in northern Minnesota as part of Native American Heritage Month. Fineday discussed many of the barriers to healthcare for people of color, especially those Indigenous to these lands, but highlighted some encouraging trends, such as more people of color entering the workforce in healthcare fields. Sanford Health has some events planned later this month to expose more Sanford employees to Anishinaabe culture, said Fineday.

Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 18:22:38 -0000

Cass Lake woman killed in head-on crash with semi; Bemidji 31 Education Foundation distributes $10,000 to Bemidji Area School classrooms; White Earth Public Transit's Kenneth Bakken named Transit Professional of the Year; Sanford Health named a top employer for veterans; and BSU opera nights are coming next weekend.

Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 16:10:38 -0000

Unofficial results for local and state races; Thayer wins at-large seat for Bemidji City Council while Rivera wins re-election to Ward 4; no incumbents successful in Bemidji School Board races with Manecke, Wall and Frenzel winning 4-year terms and Hoover and Laitala winning 2-year terms; incumbents prevail in Beltrami County Commissioner races with two new faces elected to the bourd, Gould and Carlson; and Republicans prevail in the MNLEG District 2 races.

Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 18:20:35 -0000

Election Day is here, with many local races on Bemidji-area ballots; and the Bemidji City Council meeting resulted in the first reading of an ordinance amending the city's rental code as well as a contentious vote on creating an advisory committee for the Wellness Center and Rail Corridor Development.

Monday, Nov. 7, 2022

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 17:55:32 -0000

Bemidji Fire responded to two suspicious fires at one apartment building on Ridgeway Ave. last Thursday; survey results indicate support for a new Beltrami County Jail and a local option sales tax to fund it; preview of tonight's Bemidji City Council meeting; Minnesotans are struggling to keep the lights on amid rising energy costs; one woman is preparing to be the first Black woman to kayak the full length of the Mississippi River; and the Minnesota State Patrol is reminding drivers to be cautious of deer on the roads this month.

Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 12:59:40 -0000

Wildfire dangers persist after a high fire warning Wednesday; no injuries reported in Nevis School Bus crash; the DNR is looking to add 13 species to its prohibited species list; and Bemidji Parks and Recreation will host a free open skate tomorrow while Bemidji Public Schools have the day off.

Meet the Candidates: Jarrett Walton for Beltrami County Sheriff

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 10:56:18 -0000

Jarrett Walton has been Beitel's Chief Deputy since Beitel began in 2018, and is also Beitel's endorsed candidate. Walton believes his experience in running the day-to-day operations of the Sheriff's Office in this role prime him to lead law enforcement in this county. Walton knows that this Office needs to do more with less, and has experience acquiring grants to help fund technology that will help the county do just that.

Meet the Candidates: Jason Riggs for Beltrami County Sheriff

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 10:55:37 -0000

Jason Riggs won the primary election with more than half of the vote in August, but that hasn't stopped him from continuing to press hard on his campaign. Riggs says a top issue he's heard while door-knocking revolves around the drug problem that our community is facing. Riggs wants to see more communication from the Sheriff's Office and community involvement among deputies.

Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 10:54:19 -0000

A Deer River woman pleaded guilty to murder and arson for a July 2022 crime in Ball Club; a risk-level 3 sex offender changed Bemidji addresses late last week; and a Solway woman is facing charges after a crash in Hubbard County.

Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 15:50:39 -0000

The USPS is holding a major career fair at post offices across the state Friday, including Bemidji's; Hope House of Bemidji is holding a "42-42-42" fundraiser starting tomorrow; Northwest Minnesota Foundation has channeled $1 million through the region this past quarter; the former Enbridge office in Park Rapids will turn into an Indigenous Treaty Rights and Culture museum; and lakeshore property owners are encouraged to check over their docks and lifts for evidence of zebra mussels and report their findings to Beltrami County's AIS program.

Monday, Oct. 31, 2022

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 16:51:45 -0000

The Beltrami County Board of Commissioners will consider a resolution of support for three federal bills that would continue health care coverage for pre-trial incarcerated people; the Bemidji Fire Department is expecting two new vehicles in the coming months; the DNR issues safety reminders and trail restrictions ahead of the firearms deer opener; Halloween marks six years since the disappearance of 17-year-old Jeremy Jourdain; and Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union opened a branch in Mahnomen Thursday.

Meet the Candidates: Ron Johnson for Bemidji City Council At Large

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 16:49:52 -0000

Ron Johnson has served on the Bemidji City Council as the Ward 3 representative since the early 2000s and believes his experience is needed on the council. Johnson was drawn out of the Ward 3 district during the redistricting process, but his term remains in effect through the end of 2024. Johnson has served in leadership roles in both the League of Minnesota Cities and the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities and believes these connections can help the city get more legislative help through state these lobbying groups.

Meet the Candidates: Audrey Thayer for Bemidji City Council At Large

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 16:49:04 -0000

Audrey Thayer is an enrolled White Earth Band member and has served on the Bemidji City Council since 2021, winning the 2020 election for the Ward 1 seat by a fairly close margin. Thayer is a strong believer in nonpartisanship and listening to the constituents as she makes her decisions as a council member. Thayer believes she has more projects to do and wants to serve another four years representing all wards of the city.

Friday, Oct. 28, 2022

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 16:46:04 -0000

The Bemidji State University Student Senate hosted a candidate event Thursday; a Blackduck woman was seriously injured in a rollover crash early Thursday morning; the United Way of Bemidji area is hosting a mobile food pickup on Monday; and Beltrami Electric's Operation Roundup distributed grants to 28 local nonprofit and community organizations.

Meet the Candidates: Joe Gould for Beltrami County District 2, round 2!

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 16:38:40 -0000

Back for a second round of interviews, the primary victors in the Beltrami County District 2 race discussed their platforms in their bids to be the next Beltrami County District 2 Commissioner. The race has no incumbent, as current Commissioner Reed Olson is running to be the next MN House 2A race. Joe Gould is a lifelong northern Minnesotan, and a current history and social studies teacher at Cass Lake-Bena Schools. Gould came close to winning the Ward 1 race in 2020, and in August gained more than half of the vote in the primary race. Gould is passionate about children's mental health and improving and expanding the housing stock in the community.

Meet the Candidates: Don Heinonen for Beltrami County District 2, round 2!

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 16:37:43 -0000

Back for a second round of interviews, the primary victors in the Beltrami County District 2 race discussed their platforms in their bids to be the next Beltrami County District 2 Commissioner. The race has no incumbent, as current Commissioner Reed Olson is running to be the next MN House 2A race. Don Heinonen has run several campaigns over the years, but this is his first for county office. Heinonen is a supporter of law enforcement and if elected, would want to get involved on the future of the Beltrami County Jail. Heinonen initially moved to the area to attend Northwest Technical College, raised his family here and has worked in automotive and fiber optics industries, in addition to his years of community and civic service.

Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:37:25 -0000

A Mahnomen man is facing attempted murder and other charges after allegedly stabbing another man in Mahnomen last week; an Eagan man is facing charges after a crash in Hubbard County; propane prices are expected to rise this heating season; five local women were recognized during the 6th Annual Women United Tribute Awards Breakfast; and Bemidji State is hosting a Narcan training and opioid awareness event next week.

Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 15:59:17 -0000

The Red Lake Political Education Committee hosted a candidate fair in Redby Tuesday night; Bemidji's Community Table will resume serving free, sit-down meals in November; Bemidji authorities are still seeking information about a hit-and-run over the summer; and Renee Axtman was named the new vice president of nursing and clinical services at Sanford Health in Bemidji.

Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 15:10:34 -0000

A 12-year-old Bagley boy was injured in a pedestrian v semi crash Monday morning; the Bemidji City Council appears to be in consensus in accepting Northern Township's intent to withdraw from the JPB; Halloween events return to the BSU & NTC campuses for the first time since 2019; a 10-year-old boy was killed after falling from a tree in Cass County late last week; and the DNR is reducing the bag limit for walleye fishing this winter season on Upper Red.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Joseph Neft for Beltrami County District 4

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 15:08:41 -0000

Joseph Neft is new to the local political realm but believes divine intervention played a hand in his decision to run for office. A lifelong Beltrami resident and farmer, Neft is also a truck driver with a large family. Neft strongly believes in leaving things better than he found them, and is concerned about rising property valuations and taxes.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Tim Sumner for Beltrami County District 4

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 15:07:45 -0000

Tim Sumner has represented District 4 since winning his first election in 2012, winning again in 2016 and 2020. Sumner is proud of the strides made in the county's health and human services and in improving roads. Sumner believes his experience on the board and the relationships and trust he's built over his nearly ten years of service is an asset going into the midterm elections this year.

Monday, Oct. 24, 2022

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 15:05:15 -0000

The White Earth Band announced the sale is almost final to purchase the problematic Ridgeway Court properties; Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force releases third quarter activity snapshot; a Bemidji School bus crash this morning resulted in no injuries; and DNR announces CWD sampling reminders ahead of the firearms deer season opener.

Friday, Oct. 21, 2022

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 15:16:16 -0000

A Red Lake man was sentenced to nine years in federal prison for the sexual abuse of a minor; the Bemidji City Council will discuss the future of the JPB in their work session Monday after Northern Township announced their intentions to withdraw last month; and the Northwest Minnesota Foundation is sponsoring a stress management workshop designed for business owners.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Craig Gaasvig for Beltrami County District 1

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 15:06:56 -0000

Craig Gaasvig initially won his seat on the Board of Commissioners in 2018 and is seeking re-election for a second term. Gaasvighas an extensive history of service prior to his election to the board of commissioners, serving on the Port Hope Township board for several years, and serving on various committees and boards such as the Beltrami Electric Board of Directors. Gaasvig is a lifelong resident of Beltrami County and intends to continue service guided by "rural, conservative values."

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Mark Morrissey for Beltrami County District 1

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 15:06:04 -0000

Mark Morrissey is a long-time resident of the Bemidji area, initially coming to the area to attend Bemidji State University, where he currently leads the Outdoor Program Center. Morrissey was inspired to run to "bring the temperature down" in the county board room and to bring the focus back onto nonpartisan county issues. Morrissey is focused on preserving the county's natural resources, such as improving soil and water quality all while supporting agriculture in the area.

Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 15:49:27 -0000

Bemidji Police ask residents and visitors to be vigilant for any signs of Neveah Kingbird this fall as Saturday marks one year since she disappeared; Bemidji businesses and nonprofits may be eligible for Main Street Revitalization Program grants; Blackduck Fire responded to a two-story structure fire Monday; and Itasca County authorities report a 58-year-old Bovey man was killed in an ATV crash Monday.

Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 15:43:00 -0000

Beltrami K9 Rip credited with successful apprehension of pursuit suspect; the two candidates in the Beltrami County Sheriff's race will participate in a forum this evening; Women United Tribute Awards breakfast next week; a Bemidji man is facing third-degree murder charges for his alleged role in a fatal fentanyl overdose; and a Solway woman was injured in a high-speed crash with a deer with marijuana also believed to be a factor.

Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2022

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 15:27:54 -0000

A recap of the regular Bemidji City Council meeting from 10/17; Social Security Administration announced an 8.7 percent increase in monthly benefits for 2023; and Superintendent of Cass Lake-Bena schools Sue Chase discusses the upcoming referendum in a special election this November 8.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Cass Lake-Bena Superintendent Sue Chase on the upcoming referendum question on ballots

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 14:58:34 -0000

Superintendent of Cass-Lake Bena Schools Sue Chase recently discussed the bonding referendum that will appear on ballots within the district on Nov. 8. The district is asking for $39.75 million to build a K-5 school on the same campus as the Cass Lake Middle and High Schools. The current elementary school would then be used for ALC Classrooms and Early Childhood, as well as community partnerships such as Head Start, Boys and Girls Club, and other community-based programs. Chase said the current DRC/ALC building would then be decommissioned, mentioning the facility has a number of problems relating to its age, with the initial structure built in 1921. The average homeowner tax impact would be $18.75 per month. To determine the impact on a specific home or property, a tax calculator is available on the Cass Lake-Bena district website. Cass Lake-Bena’s last bonding request failed with a resounding “no,” but Chase said the referendum request for this year is a significantly lower dollar amount.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Leonard "Alan" Roy for Senate District 2

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 14:57:00 -0000

Leonard "Alan" Roy is the DFL-endorsed candidate in his second bid to represent Senate District 2. Roy is a veteran and the former secretary-treasurer of the White Earth Reservation Business Council, with his last term finishing in July. Roy describes himself as a pragmatist and strongly believes in working across the aisle to serve all people in Minnesota. Roy says the top issues he's been hearing about include abortion rights, as well as concerns about the economy and inflation.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Steve Green for MN Senate District 2

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 14:55:59 -0000

Steve Green is the current representative for the Minnesota House 2B district, beginning his service to the region in the legislative session of 2013. Green, the Republican-endorsed candidate, believes his accomplishments are restraining government as well as he can, especially when it comes to unelected government officials. Green cites the top issues he's been hearing on the campaign trail are critical race theory and violent crime.

Monday, Oct. 17, 2022

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 15:34:17 -0000

Cass Lake man sentenced to nearly 10 years for aggravated drug sales; the Bemidji City Council has a full agenda ahead of their meeting tonight; Great River Rescue is urging community members not to abandon animals on their doorstep; and the second phase of CSAH 20/Birchmont Beach Rd. NE project begins today.

Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 14:36:41 -0000

Ten candidates for Beltrami County Commissioner participated in a candidate forum Wednesday night; MnDOT's aerial photography will begin in the area this month; Bemidji Parks & Rec is hosting a town hall next week on their draft strategic plan; four were arrested and more than a thousand individual "dubs" of fentanyl seized after investigation; and child psychiatrist Dr. Dan Janiczak discusses ADHD as part of ADHD Awareness Week.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Child psychiatrist Dr. Dan Janiczak for ADHD Awareness Week

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 14:33:52 -0000

This week marks ADHD Awareness Week, and Dr. Dan Janiczak, a children's psychiatrist at Sanford Health, explains some of the symptoms of the disease and answers some questions on the different ways this disease can affect people, especially children. ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but Dr. Janiczak explains that the title may not fully describe the symptoms and disease.

Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 16:34:25 -0000

The final defendant pleaded guilty for her role in a 2019 homicide on the Red Lake Reservation; the inauguration ceremony for new BSU and NTC president Dr. John Hoffman is this Friday; Gov. Tim Walz and Senator Amy Klobuchar held a press conference about the possibility of the 2027 World Expo taking place in Minnesota; a 12-year-old boy was killed in a hunting accident near Motley; and Bemidji State will host three more honors lectures this semester.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 16:32:19 -0000

The filing deadline for SBA loans for spring flooding property damage is on Nov. 7, the Beltrami County Board of Commissioners are holding another town hall on the upcoming jail project Thursday; and the City of Bemidji's annual deer survey will begin soon, led by BSU assistant professor of Biology Dr. Jacob Haus.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: MN House 2A Matt Grossell

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 15:44:01 -0000

Matt Grossell has served the former 2A district since 2016 as a representative. Grossell is a retired law enforcement official from Clearwater County and resides in Clearbrook. Grossell is passionate about holding producers and distributors of child pornography accountable and if elected, would continue his push to increase sentences for these offenders.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: MN House 2A Reed Olson

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 15:43:17 -0000

Reed Olson has been a Beltrami County Commissioner since 2016, having served the City of Bemidji prior to that in a special election for Ward 4. Olson is also the executive director for the Nameless Coalition for the Homeless, an agency that provides shelter for the area's most difficult-to-house population.

Monday, Oct. 10, 2022

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 15:42:11 -0000

A Bemidji man was killed in a car-vs-pedestrian crash in Cass Lake Friday; today is the first day of Restaurant Week for the United Way of Bemidji Area; BiCAP has funds available to replace energy assistance clients' with furnace upgrades; and the BSU Student Senate will host a meet the candidates event later this month.

Friday, Oct. 7, 2022

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 15:16:19 -0000

City Manager Nate Mathews issued a release clarifying that Justin Sherwood is still the Bemidji Fire Department's chief after rumors in the community indicated otherwise; MnDOT reminds drivers and farm equipment operators to share the road for a safe harvest season; Minnesota is set to receive $18 million in support of the Low Income Heating & Energy Assistance Program; a White Earth man was sentenced to 10 years in prison after an assault left a child with a large skull fracture; and the Bemidji area is officially in full peak for fall colors.

Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 16:06:25 -0000

The Bemidji City Council will revisit the possibility of displaying tribal flags at City Hall during a November work session; and vigilant watercraft inspectors prevented the spread of starry stonewort in Lake Superior over the weekend.

Monday, Oct. 3, 2022

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 16:02:10 -0000

Candidates for Bemidji School Board participated in a question-and-answer forum sponsored by the BEA Saturday; four from Blackduck were injured in a crash Friday afternoon; the Minnesota Secretary of State says more than 11,000 absentee and mail ballots have already been accepted; a Center City man was killed in an ATV crash in Spider Lake Recreation Area Saturday; and the MDVA is reporting a slight decline in veteran suicides for 2021.

Meet the Candidates: Erika Bailey-Johnson for MN House 2B

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 16:11:55 -0000

Erika Bailey-Johnson is the Sustainability Director for Bemidji State University. She is also a Red Lake Band member and grew up in northern Minnesota. Rather than expand mining for precious metals, for instance, the types that are needed to shift away from fossil fuels for electric vehicles, Bailey-Johnson believes work can be done to recapture those precious elements in the devices we frequently need to replace. Bailey-Johnson is running to have an impact on our state and hopes to bridge some of the partisan divides synonymous with the state government.

Meet the Candidates: Matt Bliss for MN House 2B

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 16:11:12 -0000

Matt Bliss is a resort owner from the Pennington area and wants to return to the Minnesota House to continue working for the people of Minnesota. Bliss said that if the Republicans win the majority in the House, he would work toward removing the process of the omnibus bills, to pass laws on a more individual basis. Bliss wants to limit waste in government, citing the Minnesota Department of Education as one particular agency that could stand to be slimmed down.

Friday, Sept. 30, 2022

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 16:10:01 -0000

Beltrami County Board will take their next meeting on the road to Eckles Township Tuesday; a Randall man was seriously injured in a Thursday afternoon crash in southern Cass County; State patrol officials recap the Project 20-22 to reduce dangerous driving behaviors this summer on Minnesota roads; Sanford Health and Beltrami County held the grand opening of the Sanford Health Crisis Center Thursday; and Explore Minnesota has an update for the leaf-peeping season.

Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 15:42:42 -0000

Additional public hearings and an extended public comment period have been announced as the Beltrami County Board of Commissioners is expected to make a decision on the Beltrami County Jail project in November; the Becker County Sheriff's Office released causes of death and identifications after two bodies were found in Lakeview Township Tuesday; Mississippi Music donated $15,000 to two local agencies; MnDOT will launch goMARTI self-driving shuttles in Grand Rapids next week; and advisory board members are being sought for the Bemidji-based Children's Reading Program Fund.

Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 14:51:58 -0000

Authorities are investigating after the bodies of two people and two dogs were recovered in a Becker County home; Bemidji's "Housing Matters" received an Award of Excellence from DHS Commissioner Jodi Harpstead; BSU Professor Emeritus of History Dr. Art Lee passed away Saturday at the age of 91; a missing Bemidji woman hasn't been seen in over a month and may possibly be in the Brainerd area; and a 52-year-old Shevlin woman was injured after crashing into two power poles.

Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 14:42:56 -0000

Northern Township announced its intention to withdraw from the Greater Bemidji Area Joint Planning Board in a joint work session with the Bemidji City Council Monday; an outside law firm has been contracted to review the 2018 death of Beltrami County inmate Hardel Sherrell; construction on the Bemidji Veterans Home is nearly half complete with more than 70 resident applications received ahead of its opening mid-2023; and Minnesota's Cold Weather Rule goes into effect this Saturday, low-income heating and energy assistance applications are being accepted, Beltrami and Cass residents would submit their applications through BiCAP.

Monday, Sept. 26, 2022

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 16:18:35 -0000

Bemidji Fire Department has 11 paid-on-call firefighter vacancies; the Bemidji Education Association is hosting a school board candidate forum this Saturday; the Minnesota Sheriffs Association scholarship program is now open; Highway 89 south of Fourtown will be closed for a culvert replacement; no arrests made in "swatting" calls that targeted 14 schools across the state, including Bemidji's, but authorities believe the calls came from one person; and drivers are reminded to be mindful of farm equipment on the highways this harvest.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: U.S. Senator Tina Smith on affordable housing

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 15:51:00 -0000

Senator Smith highlights a bill she introduced aimed at improving the affordable housing stock in rural communities across the country, a topic especially sensitive in the Bemidji area with the rapidly devolving situation at Ridgeway Court.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: U.S. Senator Tina Smith on affordable housing

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 15:51:00 -0000

Thursday, Sept. 22, 2022

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 15:48:13 -0000

Bemidji High School was one of at least a dozen schools across the state hoaxed by "swatting;" the Beltrami County Board of Commissioners approved a 6.87 percent levy increase by a 3-2 vote; U.S. Senator Tina Smith introduced a bill to improve affordable housing in rural Minnesota; Highway 197 will be closed next week at the railroad crossing; and a Bemidji-born sailor is currently serving on the U.S.S. Tripoli

Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 16:40:34 -0000

September is Suicide Prevention Month, with MDH highlighting the new 9-8-8 crisis lifeline; a well-known farm in Park Rapids lost three buildings in a fire last Friday; Northwoods Caregivers is set to receive a state grant to support their work around Alzheimer's; and the Beltrami Electric golf tournament raised more than $11K for the United Way of Bemidji Area.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Emelie Rivera for Bemidji City Council Ward 4

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 16:33:44 -0000

Emelie Rivera won her first election in 2018 as the Bemidji City Council’s Ward 4 representative, and if successful, she would be elected to a second four-year term. Rivera’s background and education is in social work, and the desire to help those who are often overlooked are what inspired her initial run in 2018. Among her goals, Rivera wants to continue working to increase and improve local housing stock, especially for affordable housing units.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: David Hoefer for Bemidji City Council Ward 4

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 16:32:56 -0000

David Hoefer is the former chief of the Bemidji Fire Department. Largely retired, he still provides service through his various volunteer efforts and is still fighting fires part-time. Hoefer’s desire for civic duty is one he’s had for his whole life, and believes his experience as a staff member with the city would bring a lot to the table on the council. Hoefer hopes to bring more transparency to the city council and fiscal responsibility.

Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 16:22:16 -0000

The Bemidji City Council voted to extend the Bemidji Curling Club's lease and will discuss further the possibility of leasing the entire Neilson Reise Arena building to the Club; a scam in the area appears to be targeting business demanding bitcoin; waterfowl hunting season opener begins on Saturday; Paul Bunyan Broadcasting's own Tom Lucas won the State AA speech coach of the year after a vote among his peers; and Sanford Bemidji is offering flu and COVID boosters this fall.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Hannah Chandler from Sanford Bemidji's MedX program

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 17:13:03 -0000

Chandler highlights the MedX program, which invites students in the area in grades 8-12, to learn more about the exciting career paths in health care, in this introductory program.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Brian Merschman for Beltrami County District 3

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 17:11:21 -0000

Brian Merschman is a longtime Bemidji-area resident with years of experience in political service as a supervisor of Bemidji Township. Merschman currently works in public transit and also has many years of experience in the automotive service industry. Merschman wants to learn more about county government and hopes to take his service experience to the next level. The "Meet the Candidates" series continues with the two candidates in the Beltrami County District 3 race. Due to redistricting, all commissioner seats are up for election this year. The new Beltrami County District 3 includes the City of Solway, City of Wilton; and the township of Bemidji, Buzzle, Eckles, Grant Valley, Jones, Lammers and Liberty.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Richard Anderson for Beltrami County District 3

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 17:10:08 -0000

Richard Anderson is the incumbent in this race, having served on the Beltrami County Board since 2011. Anderson is a retired educator, with his last posting at Bemidji High School as principal. Anderson says he brings a lot of negotiation experience and wants to keep politics out of the boardroom. The “Meet the Candidates” series continues with the two candidates in the Beltrami County District 3 race. Due to redistricting, all commissioner seats are up for election this year. The new Beltrami County District 3 includes the City of Solway, City of Wilton; and the township of Bemidji, Buzzle, Eckles, Grant Valley, Jones, Lammers and Liberty.

Monday, Sept. 19, 2022

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 16:53:47 -0000

A Remer teen was killed in an alcohol-related crash; the Highway 71 project in Bemidji has entered its fourth and final stage; natural gas prices are expected to be 66 percent higher than it was two years ago this winter; Sanford's MedX program gives students grades 8-12 insight into the careers of health care; and another seatbelt enforcement campaign is underway statewide.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS Karen Parker and Alyssa Benson from Rural MN CEP

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 15:52:18 -0000

The Fall Trunk Job Fair is this Monday at the Westridge Center near Home Depot in Bemidji. Around 30 employers are expected from noon to 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 19.

Friday, Sept. 16, 2022

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 15:50:19 -0000

A Walker woman is facing felony charges after a pound of meth was seized in a traffic stop; Beltrami County officials are encouraging public participation ahead of the upcoming Beltrami County Jail decision; starry stonewort was confirmed in Thunder Lake near Remer; Rural MN CEP is hosting a job fair this Monday; and home sales in the state appear to be leveling off.

Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 14:55:55 -0000

The Beltrami County Board of Commissioners is eyeing a 6.8 percent levy increase as they are scheduled to set the preliminary budget and levy Tuesday; a judge ruled against the Hubbard County Sheriff in a civil case around a blockade around a property involved with last year's Line 3 protests; and Minnesotans can order more free rapid COVID tests at mn.gov/covid19

Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 15:40:55 -0000

No injuries reported in Bemidji area school bus crash; Fosston set to receive $5.8 million in ARP dollars to expand their airport industrial park; the Department of the Interior removed "sq---" from 650 geographical features across the nation including one lake in Minnesota; there were 100 more drunk driving arrests this Labor Day weekend than the year prior; and Go Green Friday is back in conjunction with Bemidji State's homecoming kickoff this Friday.

Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 15:43:18 -0000

Secretary of State Steve Simon is reminding Minnesotans to make sure they are registered to vote at mnvotes.gov; residents can provide input on some potential northern pike regulation changes for the Turtle River chain of lakes in Beltrami County at a meeting tomorrow; United Way of Bemidji Area is accepting nominations for its Women United Tribute Awards; lead dietitian at Sanford Health Alicia Van Den Heuvel has some tips for preparing healthy school lunches; and BSU has once again been named to America's Best Colleges 2023 rankings by U.S. News & World Report.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Sandy Hennum for Beltrami County District 5

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 15:26:59 -0000

Sandy Hennum has been the executive director for Village of Hope, a homeless shelter focused on serving families, for the past 12 years with plans to retire at the end of this year. Hennum's life has been focused on community service, and this is her first political campaign. Hennum, the only woman who filed for a seat on the Beltrami County Board, says the foundation of a community is based on housing, child care and adequate mental health services, and would like to do her part to bring more resources to Greater Minnesota.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: John Carlson for Beltrami County District 5

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 15:18:52 -0000

The Meet the Candidates series continues with the candidate for Beltrami County Board of Commissioners District 5, John Carlson. Carlson represented this region of Minnesota in the state legislature as a Republican senator from 2011 to 2013. Carlson is currently retired and has a background in finance, which he says he can put to use on behalf of the citizens of Beltrami County. Carlson says he would be able to effectively lobby on behalf of the county in the state legislature, with a focus on balancing the budget and supporting infrastructure.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Lead Dietitian at Sanford Bemidji Alicia Van Den Heuvel

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 14:57:30 -0000

Larissa visits with Sanford Bemidji's Lead Dietitian Alicia Van Den Heuvel on some tips for healthy back-to-school lunches.

Monday, Sept. 12, 2022

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 15:40:40 -0000

A 24-year-old woman was killed in a motorcycle crash Saturday morning in Itasca County; Deep Portage Learning Center in Hackensack will host a climate change forum on Oct. 8; Sept. 12-16 is Lifeline Awareness Week; applications will be accepted for the Bemidji Veterans Home Thursday after 8 a.m.; and construction on Highway 59 near Brooks began today.

Friday, Sept. 9, 2022

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 15:49:19 -0000

A federal jury found a Red Lake man guilty of rape; the Beltrami County Sheriff's Office is warning of scam calls; the Bemidji City Council and Bemidji Downtown Alliance are scheduled to meet in a city work session; and pheasant numbers across the state are up 18 percent from last year.

Thursday, Sept. 8, 2022

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 15:57:53 -0000

A Bemidji man was arrested after a rollover crash pinned and injured a passenger; four were arrested after a search of a Redby home found meth and fentanyl for distribution; starry stonewort was recently confirmed in Lake Bemidji; a missing Chilsholm man was found dead in Itasca County; Clearwater County authorities are on the alert after a heifer was killed and butchered on a farmer's pasture; and Minnesota's Fall Color Finder has launched for the season.

Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 15:31:58 -0000

A Minneapolis woman's bail was set at $2 million after charges of a murder and arson near Cass Lake; a 13-year-old Motley girl was killed in a boating accident near Hackensack; a Flordia woman was killed in an OHV crash near Outing in Cass County; and a Bemidji man is facing a number of felonies after an argument over a sandwich escalated into burglary and assault with a dangerous weapon.

Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 15:14:02 -0000

A Bena woman is in custody as a suspect in a fatal fire near Cass Lake Tuesday night; a Red Lake man was sentenced to nearly 20 years for a violent rape almost two years ago; the Bemidji Public Affairs Committee will review some retention and recruitment strategies in their next meeting; the Boys & Girls Club Golf Tournament raised more than $42K; and 1,400 more Minnesota families are eligible for SNAP benefits as of today with a change in the guidelines.

Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Friday is the last day to submit orders for free COVID-19 test from the federal government, the state also has some still available; Minnesota gas prices appear to be on the decline; and solid waste in Beltrami County has announced hours changes over the Labor Day Weekend; and

Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 14:18:49 -0000

The Beltrami County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the final jail needs and feasibility report currently available online with seven potential options for the county jail's future; MnDOT will begin a road project on Highway 2 in Fosston in early September with an expected completion by mid-September.

Monday, Aug. 29, 2022

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 15:31:59 -0000

A Bemidji man is facing aggravated sentencing after assault on relative and peace officer; two arrested after a drug bust in Cass Lake resulted in the seizure of hundreds of grams of fentanyl and methamphetamine; seal coating project underway on Bemidji area highways; more Minnesota families will be eligible for SNAP after a guideline shift effective Sept. 1; and early waterfowl hunters should be on the lookout for wild rice harvesters and be aware of tribal restrictions.

Friday, Aug. 19, 2022

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 15:24:45 -0000

None of the 23 candidates withdrew from the Bemidji School Board contest; the Beltrami County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting Aug. 24 to hear the final report on the Jail Needs and Feasibility Study; and the Bemidji City Council will hear an update on the planning process underway for Bemidji's Parks, Trails and Recreational programming.

Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 16:14:41 -0000

Violent crime is on the rise in Minnesota, including a 16 percent increase over last year in Greater Minnesota; the annual "Fill the Boot" drive is tomorrow at Bemidji Brewing; a Nevis 11-year-old is leading an effort to bring a skate park to his hometown; the band Augmeanted will perform in the Historic Carnegie Library tonight as part of a Headwaters Music and Arts fundraising concert series; and Minnesota's unemployment rate for July held steady at the record-low 1.8 percent.

Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 15:32:14 -0000

Seventeen filed for five available seats on the Bemidji School Board this General Election, Highway 1 west of Red Lake will be closed for a culvert replacement today, and DEED Commissioner Steve Grove is visiting Thief River Falls as part of his "Summer of Jobs" tour.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Augmeanted ahead of Headwaters anniversary concert

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 15:26:49 -0000

Mary Overlie and Geoff Taylor, two cousins who form the group "Augmeanted" are debuting their album release, "Life, Twice," in a concert tomorrow evening at the Historic Carnegie. The concert is part of a series organized by Headwaters Music and Arts as they celebrate their 30th anniversary.

Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 15:33:47 -0000

The search for a missing Red Lake man ended in tragedy with the discovery of his body Monday; starry stonewort confirmed in two northern Minnesota lakes; students are set to return to the campuses of NTC and BSU this week; Bemidji City Council approves land sale and appropriation of ARP dollars to North Country Park project; and three Beltrami County deputies were recently recognized as DWI All-Stars

Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 15:26:19 -0000

Unofficial primary results for the Beltrami County and City of Bemidji contests; U of M's Ellen Demerath explains some of the studies conducted for the first time at the Beltrami County Fair which starts today.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS the U of M's Ellen Demerath ahead of the Beltrami County Fair

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 15:13:14 -0000

U of M professor Ellen Demerath explains what sort of studies they will be conducted during their first-ever visit to the Beltrami County Fair. The 10KFS study will only be on Friday, Aug. 12, from noon to 7 p.m. but other studies will happen throughout the fair, which starts today and ends Sunday. The U of M will be in Building 13.

Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 15:07:10 -0000

The Bemidji City Council may look at halving the budgeted deficit for Sanford Center operations as they prepare to set the levy for 2023; Minnesota Primary Day is today, with three local races on ballots in Bemidji; save your back-to-school receipts for valuable tax credits per the Minnesota Department of Revenue; and Three Island Park will be closed starting Aug. 15 for a road construction project expected to be complete in mid-October.

Monday, Aug. 8, 2022

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 14:16:04 -0000

An Akeley man was killed near Nisswa after striking a boat on a trailer; a Florida man was seriously injured in an alcohol-related crash near Waskish; the Beltrami County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting Aug. 26 to review the jail study; and the City of Bemidji has a number of citizen engagement opportunities through city boards, committees and commissions.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Audrey Thayer for Bemidji City Council At-Large

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 16:01:35 -0000

The Meet the Candidates series continues with candidates for the Bemidji City Council at-large race ahead of the primary election Aug. 9.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Ron Johnson for Bemidji City Council At-Large

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 16:00:57 -0000

The Meet the Candidates series continues with candidates for the Bemidji City Council at-large race ahead of the primary election Aug. 9.

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Dan Jourdain for Bemidji City Council At-Large

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 15:59:36 -0000

The Meet the Candidates series continues with candidates for the Bemidji City Council at-large race ahead of the primary election Aug. 9.

Friday, Aug. 5, 2022

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 15:20:06 -0000

The Minnesota BCA recently launched a Crime Data Explorer, a website that allows everyday Minnesotans to track crime in their neighborhoods in just a few clicks; the Bemidji City Council will eye a potential 3.7 net levy increase for 2023 in their work session Monday; MnDOT announced a detour for Beltrami County Fairgoers Aug. 10-14 on Highway 71 as construction continues on schedule; and a Clear Lake man was sentenced to more than 8 years in prison for sexually assaulting his daughter's friend in an ice fishing trip on Upper Red Lake last year.

Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 15:23:05 -0000

Sen. Amy Klobuchar and the MN American Legion Commander are passing the recent Senate action passing the PACT Act for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits; Beltrami Electric's Annual meeting and night at the Fair is next week; the Minnesota Department of Health says adverse patient events such as ulcers and falls were much higher in 2021 than in 2020; and Greater Bemidji is partnering with others to offer a free 10-week entrepreneur academy.

Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 14:48:53 -0000

Candidate filing period for Bemidji School Board member positions is now open; Commissioner Reed Olson spoke to the Bemidji City Council on his concerns about an upcoming vacate date for a Ridgeway apartment building; the city council tabled the animal ordinance and formed a committee to review; a black bear was killed and a motorcyclist injured in a crash Monday near Pillager; and Minnesota's Primary is Aug. 9, visit mnvotes.gov for more information on where to vote and who is on the ballot.

Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 15:35:33 -0000

A Shevlin man is being held without bail after allegedly stealing a Bagley Police Department squad and fleeing the scene; the Beltrami County Sheriff's Office identified the male found dead at a Lake Bemidji State Park cabin last week; the Bemidji School Board reviewed drug policy updates for employees and students; three were injured in an alcohol-related ATV crash in Cass County; and MnDOT announced a traffic switch tomorrow on Highway 2 from Fosston to Erskine.

Monday, Aug. 1, 2022

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 15:58:17 -0000

A Bemidji man was killed in a motorcycle crash Saturday night, a pedestrian was seriously injured in a hit-and-run crash in Bemidji Saturday, the Bemidji City Council meets tonight, the Hubbard County Sheriff's Office says two were injured in a recent crash near Nevis.

Thursday, July 28, 2022

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 15:57:01 -0000

News updates from around the region for Thursday, July 28.

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 15:56:04 -0000

News updates from the region for Wednesday, July 27.

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 15:24:06 -0000

The Bemidji City Council held a discussion on a possible extension of a dead-end watermain for development at the Bemidji Regional Airport; MnDOT is currently accepting comment on their Multimodal Transportation Plan, 2023-2041, through Sept. 18; and the Interagency Fire Center in Grand Rapids is monitoring the entire state, but precipitation in northern Minnesota has kept wildfires at bay.

Meet the Candidates: Darren Tobey for Beltrami County District 2

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 14:59:33 -0000

Darren Tobey, first and foremost, says he is not a politician and wants to be a voice of the people. Tobey is a business owner from the Nymore area and if elected, he wants to support law enforcement and business while eliminating what he views as excessive spending. The “Meet the Candidates” series continues with the five candidates in the race for the Beltrami County District 2 race. This district, recently redrawn, includes three City of Bemidji wards; Wards 1, 4 and 5. The five candidates will be on District 2 primary ballots on Tuesday, Aug. 9.

Meet the Candidates: Joe Gould for Beltrami County District 2

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 14:58:16 -0000

Joe Gould has long familial ties to the region and is originally from the Itasca County/Grand Rapids area. Gould has many years of state and local government experience and is currently a licensed teacher. Children’s mental health is among his top focuses and wants to improve partnerships with neighboring tribal nations. The “Meet the Candidates” series continues with the five candidates in the race for the Beltrami County District 2 race. This district, recently redrawn, includes three City of Bemidji wards; Wards 1, 4 and 5. The five candidates will be on District 2 primary ballots on Tuesday, Aug. 9.

Meet the Candidates: Don Heinonen for Beltrami County District 2

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 14:57:20 -0000

Don Heinonen is also a member of the Bemidji Charter Commission and longtime Bemidji resident. While this is his first race for Beltrami County, Heinonen has launched several campaigns for City of Bemidji council positions, including Ward 5 and at-large. Heinonen believes public safety is one of the top concerns facing Beltrami County. The “Meet the Candidates” series continues with the five candidates in the race for the Beltrami County District 2 race. This district, recently redrawn, includes three City of Bemidji wards; Wards 1, 4 and 5. The five candidates will be on District 2 primary ballots on Tuesday, Aug. 9.

Meet the Candidates: James Ravnikar for Beltrami County District 2

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 14:56:16 -0000

James Ravnikar is a current member of the Bemidji Charter Commission and works in finance at the Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig school. He believes his experience brings a lot of skills for level-headed discussion on issues facing the county. The “Meet the Candidates” series continues with the five candidates in the race for the Beltrami County District 2 race. This district, recently redrawn, includes three City of Bemidji wards; Wards 1, 4 and 5. The five candidates will be on District 2 primary ballots on Tuesday, Aug. 9.

Meet the Candidates: Adam Bommersbach for Beltrami County District 2

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 14:54:38 -0000

Adam Bommersbach says he has been intrigued with local government for a long time and has prior experience campaigning on behalf of others, including his father in Norman County. Bommersbach says one of his primary focuses is economic development and making Beltrami County a great place for anyone to raise a family. The “Meet the Candidates” series continues with the five candidates in the race for the Beltrami County District 2 race. This district, recently redrawn, includes three City of Bemidji wards; Wards 1, 4 and 5. The five candidates will be on District 2 primary ballots on Tuesday, Aug. 9.

Monday, July 25, 2022

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:35:34 -0000

An Iowa woman was injured in a squad v. bicycle crash in Shingobee Township; residents are reminded to make sure their E911 address signs are clear from brush; the Minnesota State Butterfly, the monarch, was recently listed as an endangered specie due to dwindling populations; two Bemidji residents are facing murder charges for their roles in a fatal overdose; and two were injured in an alcohol-related crash in Cass County.

Friday, July 22, 2022

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 14:46:51 -0000

A Deer River woman is facing murder and arson charges after an attack in Ball Club Sunday; and the Minnesota Supreme Court has disqualified one of the Republican candidates for the Senate 2 race in the upcoming primary on Aug. 9.

Thursday, July 21, 2022

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 15:46:52 -0000

The body of a missing Beltrami County man was found Wednesday morning; the second round of childcare economic development grants is now open for applicants; U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar is praising the return of remote border access between the States and Canada; Summer pandemic EBT transfers will begin this summer for eligible school children and children 5 and younger; and the state's unemployment rate dropped to an historic low of 1.8 percent, the lowest it's been since the metric's been tracked.

Wednesday, July 20, 2022

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 16:02:23 -0000

A law enforcement-only search for 21-year-old Logan Roy will take place in Beltrami County today, a Park Rapids man was arrested after hitting a pedestrian and fleeing the scene earlier this month, Highway 197 from Bemidji Ave. N to Highway 71 NW will be striped today, two from Pine River were arrested after a Cass County drug investigation Saturday, and a Waubun man was arrested after crashing an ATV drunk at a wedding.

Tuesday, July 19, 2022

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 15:51:27 -0000

A search is underway for a possibly armed vulnerable adult, Logan Roy, 21, of Puposky; and Minnesota is on track for the 100 deadliest days on the roads this summer with 193 traffic fatalities reported since Memorial Day.

Monday, July 18, 2022

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 14:41:40 -0000

A motorcyclist was injured in a crash south of Bemidji Saturday, construction on Birchmont Beach Road NE begins today, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline went live on Saturday using the new 988 number, users of Highway 2 in Cass Lake are asked to participate in a study, be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke today, and MnDOT reminds residents that private signs (political, garage sale, lost pet, etc.) are not permitted in public rights-of-way.

Friday, July 15, 2022

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 15:18:31 -0000

President Biden approved the major disaster declaration for Minnesota; the Beltrami County Board of Commissioners are set to hear an update on the Bemidji area's child care shortage; the Bemidji City Council will review several items in their meeting Monday; two women from Red Lake were injured in a rollover crash on Highway 1 Thursday morning; and construction on Highway 1 east of Red Lake is set to begin July 25.

Thursday, July 14, 2022

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 15:36:46 -0000

Beltrami County was mentioned in a recent Department of Public Safety blog post touting the dependability of FirstNet, a non-commercial public network; construction on Birchmont Beach Road begins Monday; the author of the bill legalizing THC edibles in Minnesota is working with cities and counties on creating regulations; the body of an adult male was recovered from Lake Bemidji Wednesday; and sexual assault survivors can track their "rape kits" through a new system offered by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

Wednesday, July 13, 2022

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 15:34:51 -0000

Beltrami County K9 Rip assisted with the arrest of a juvenile and apprehension of a stolen weapon last week, and private property owners are asked to submit damage reports for widespread flooding that began April 22 in Beltrami County.

Tuesday, July 12, 2022

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 16:06:11 -0000

The Bemidji City Council heard an update from the City Attorney's Office. The work session meeting Monday was informational only.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Beltrami County Sheriff Candidate Jason Riggs

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 15:28:07 -0000

In this "Meet the Candidate" series, Larissa holds conversational-type interviews with local candidates for office. Jason Riggs is currently a captain in the Beltrami County Sheriff's Office with over 20 years of law enforcement experience.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Beltrami County Sheriff Candidate Jarrett Walton

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 15:26:27 -0000

In this "Meet the Candidates" series, Larissa interviews local candidates for office. Jarrett Walton is currently the Chief Deputy for the Beltrami County Sheriff's Office and is current Sheriff Ernie Beitel's endorsed candidate.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS Beltrami County Sheriff Candidate Bidal Duran

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 15:22:35 -0000

In this "Meet the Candidates" series, News Director Larissa Donovan holds a conversational-type interview with local candidates for office. Bidal Duran is currently a deputy with the Hubbard County Sheriff's Office in the narcotics division.

Monday, July 11, 2022

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 14:43:28 -0000

A Waterville man was killed in an off-road crash near Akeley over the weekend, Bemidji's Airport is set to receive $95K as part of a national infrastructure package, the Joint Planning Board is working out of a new space and reports a number of commercial development projects are underway, the Better Business Bureau warns of look-alike websites and other scams ahead of Prime Day, and Sanford Bemidji's AirMed is celebrating 10 years tomorrow and the community is invited for an ice cream social and helicopter tours.

Friday, July 8, 2022

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 16:02:52 -0000

Invasive faucet snails, which carry parasites deadly to waterfowl, have been confirmed in George Lake inside the White Earth Reservation, and Gov. Tim Walz announced post-9/11 veterans can now apply for service bonuses as part of a $25 million package passed in the Veterans Omnibus Bill.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Dr. Shayla Hesse

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 15:24:21 -0000

Dr. Shayla Hesse, an infectious disease doctor at Sanford Bemidji, discusses the rise of anaplasmosis in the area as ticks are out in full force this time of year.

Thursday, July 7, 2022

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 15:23:10 -0000

A Bemidji man was wanted for escaping a courthouse after being sentenced on a separate escape from custody charge but is now back in custody, two patrons were injured when a car crashed through a Dorset restaurant, and the tick-borne illness anaplasmosis is on the rise in our area, with Dr. Shayla Hesse explaining symptoms and preventative actions to avoid tick bites.

Thursday, June 30

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 14:27:22 -0000

A Bemidji man has been missing since Monday after making self-harm statements, he is believed to be driving a maroon 2005 GMC Sierra; construction on Ridgeway Avenue NW, from Paul Bunyan Drive to 30th Street, begins on July 5; and the city is now accepting applications for the city archery hunt this fall, hunts will be in west Bemidji in Ward 4, northeast Lake Bemidji in Ward 5, and around the Bemidji Regional Airport.

Tuesday, June 28, 2022

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 15:55:03 -0000

An attempted abduction investigation is underway in Bemidji, a home was moderately damaged in a fire Monday, COVID-19 vaccines are available for kids 6 months to 4-years-old at Sanford Bemidji and a number of tornadoes were confirmed by the National Weather Service after the latest bout of severe weather Friday

Monday, June 27, 2022

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Motley man critically injured in crash with semi, DNR urging boaters and swimmers take caution to prevent water-related fatalities, Sanford Bemidji opens Acute Spine Center, a Deer River man was taken to the hospital after a traffic stop resulted in a crash into the ditch, and Sanford Bemidji to host 10-year celebration of AirMed services,

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 16:21:18 -0000

The Bemidji City Council discussed Visit Bemidji and an alcohol ordinance amendment during their meeting Tuesday, a Bagley man was injured in a motorcycle crash just west of Bemidji Tuesday, Great River Rescue received a grant from the national Petco Love organization, and Beltrami Electric's indoor garage sale raised more than $5,000 for the United Way of Bemidji Area.

Tuesday, June 21, 2022

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 16:19:40 -0000

A Red Lake man is facing charges for a high-speed pursuit in the City of Bemidji Saturday night; a Laporte woman was injured in a crash Friday afternoon on the Highway 200/Highway 64 intersection; and Watermark Art Festival, formerly known as Art in the Park, returns for its 54th year next month.

Monday, June 20, 2022

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 14:57:36 -0000

A Bemidji woman was killed and a Shevlin woman was seriously injured in a rollover crash in Gonvick early Sunday morning; a five-year-old Clearwater County boy with autism was reunited with his family after being missing for four hours; MnDOT's Highway 71 project remains on schedule one month into construction; a Deer River woman was arrested for assault after a large fight broke out between two groups of tubers on the Mississippi River; and the CDC approved the emergency use of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children 6 months to age 5, with shipments expected to arrive at Minnesota providers in the next week.

Friday, June 17, 2022

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 15:42:53 -0000

Juneteenth is this Sunday and will also be federally recognized this Monday in honor of the last slaves freed in Galveston, Tex., two years after Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation of 1863; City of Bemidji offices and services will be closed Monday with a fairly light council agenda on Tuesday; the Loop the Lake Festival is tomorrow and a temporary detour will be in place on Birchmont Beach Rd. NE; and DEED is reporting another month of more jobs and lower unemployment, but still a tight labor force for May.

Thursday, June 16, 2022

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 15:49:02 -0000

MnDOT's demonstration project at 6th St. and Bemidji Ave. N. is in place, with community members encouraged to try out the temporary pedestrian refuge and provide feedback, and the county board will discuss a number of items in their meetings Tuesday, such as an update to County Parks, information on a 1979 oil spill site in Lammers Township, and a review of the underway budget process.

Wednesday, June 15, 2022

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 15:28:55 -0000

A Red Lake man was sentenced to seven years for a non-lethal shooting, Monday's Bemidji School Board meeting will be the last for retiring Superintendent Tim Lutz, Beltrami County ranked 9th in the state for taxpayers receiving the biggest refunds, White Earth Tribal election results, 1800 ticketed in the state's most recent Click it or Ticket campaign, and an uptick in motorcycle fatalities prompted a reminder from the Department of Public Safety.

Tuesday, June 14, 2022

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 15:39:49 -0000

Two horses and their riders were rescued from the swamp Saturday with some innovative techniques from first responders, the Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce will unveil their new space today, BSU and NTC is participating in Minnesota State Week next week, the FBI is offering a $5,000 reward for information on a 2020 homicide case in Red Lake, and the Sanford Center booked a comedian for this fall.

Monday, June 13, 2022

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 15:58:24 -0000

No injuries were reported but a structure was lost on Gem Ln. NE in Bemidji on Thursday, MnDOT is offering $2 million in matching funds for local infrastructure projects that promote economic development, Paul Bunyan Communications and the Leech Lake Band will hold a sign-up day for the Affordable Connectivity Program this Wednesday, flooding still a concern and volunteers needed in Koochiching County, and June is "Great Outdoors Month" by proclamation of the governor.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: Steven D. Parker

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 15:54:57 -0000

Steven D. Parker, the BSU and NTC Campus Diversity Officer and Title IX Coordinator, discusses the history of Juneteenth and its implications for today in a candid discussion.

Friday, June 10, 2022

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 15:53:25 -0000

A Fergus Falls man drowned on Detroit Lake Wednesday, the Bemidji City Council will discuss a possible future for the Neilson Reise Arena, and Lueken's Village Foods was named a 2022 Minnesota Grown Retailer of the Year.

Thursday, June 9, 2022

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 15:28:58 -0000

A Pillager man was sentenced to over five years in prison for meth trafficking, sandbagging efforts continue in the Rainy Lake watershed amid historic flooding, a temporary detour will be in place for the Loop the Lake Festival on June 18, U.S. Senator Tina Smith's bill to support veterans suffering after-effects from toxic substance exposure from military service likely to become law, and the DNR and multiple partners purchased additional muskie habitat on Leech Lake.

LARISSA INTERVIEWS: U.S. Senator Tina Smith

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 15:26:05 -0000

Tune in for a conversation with Minnesota's junior senator Tina Smith, who recently introduced legislation that will likely become law to support veterans impacted by toxic substances during their military service.l

Wednesday, June 8, 2022

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 15:17:41 -0000

Beltrami County Board of Commissioners hears presentations during their work session Tuesday, "Free Park Day" this Saturday in conjunction with "Take a Kid Fishing Weekend," Fargo man killed in Mahnomen County crash and state officials unveiled a PFAs dashboard for public water systems across the state.

Tuesday, June 7, 2022

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 14:56:41 -0000

A Bemidji man was sentenced to eight years in prison for the malicious punishment of an infant, Dr. Helen Zaikina-Montgomery named the new president of Leech Lake Tribal College, United Ways of Bemidji and Northeastern Minnesota seeking volunteers for sandbagging efforts in Koochiching County, and the Bemidji City Council discussed numerous items during their meeting Monday.

Monday, June 6, 2022

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 16:06:19 -0000

Red Lake man sentenced to more than 19 years in prison for the sexual abuse of a child over a six-year period, White Earth man pleads guilty to an assault that left a child with a skull fracture, MnDOT's Highway 71 project moves into the first phase of Stage 2 today, a 44-year-old Ponsford man was injured in an apparent shooting, and five were injured in a crash south of Park Rapids Sunday.

Friday, June 3, 2022

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 14:04:54 -0000

Bemidji City Council to review several items of new business during their meeting Monday, construction on Highway 1 east of Red Lake to begin this month, and the DNR has some tips on how to address storm-damaged trees on properties.

Thursday, June 2, 2022

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 14:46:30 -0000

Cleanup continues in areas impacted by Monday's storms, a Red Lake social worker was appointed to a statewide mental health task force, track chairs coming to Lake Bemidji State Park in mid-June, EF1 tornadoes were confirmed in Deer River and Cass County's Poplar Township, and the likelihood of a special legislative session seems slim.

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 16:12:27 -0000

Candidate filing has closed, with numerous local people filing for seats, numerous ATV crashes over Memorial Day weekend resulted in serious injuries in Cass County, Bemidji's Disc Golf Course is temporarily closed due to storm damage, the Bemidji School Board will hold a special meeting to discuss labor contracts, and local nurses and support staff were recently recognized for Sanford Bemidji's 2022 Nursing Awards.

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Tue, 31 May 2022 16:14:15 -0000

Akeley woman facing charges after crashing into apartment building under the influence, Beltrami County Sheriff's Office warns of scammers impersonating law enforcement, masking now optional for patients and visitors at Sanford Health, a Ponsford man is facing criminal sexual conduct charges, and clean up efforts are underway after a hard-hitting storm swept through the City of Deer River.

Friday, May 27, 2022

Fri, 27 May 2022 16:44:54 -0000

The Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities warns about likely higher property taxes with MnLEG leaving transformational tax cuts undone, watch for turtles crossing roads this time of year, boaters reminded to keep safety in mind this Memorial Day weekend, a Hubbard County man was seriously injured in a dirt bike crash, and MnDOT's Highway 71/Anne St project is moving into the third phase of Stage 1 which will involve some changing traffic patterns.

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Thu, 26 May 2022 15:20:09 -0000

An Aitkin man was injured in a Remer area crash, Northwest Minnesota Foundation accepting grant applications for child care programming, NTC recently held its 5th Annual Rural Community Health Workers Conference, MnDOT says 29,500 bags of trash were removed from highways last year in the "Adopt a Highway" program, two were injured in an alcohol-related crash in Clearwater County, MnDOT reminds drivers to use caution in work zones this Memorial Day Weekend, and holiday-related hours changes in refuse pickup and waste management.

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

Wed, 25 May 2022 15:20:54 -0000

No injuries reported in Bemidji school bus crash on Monday, FEMA and state emergency response personnel are in the area to assess damages from April 22 flooding events, newcomers and incumbents file for state and county races, Superintendent Tim Lutz issues message in the wake of yet another school shooting in America, and the Boys and Girls Club of the Bemidji Area recently received two large donations.

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

Tue, 24 May 2022 13:43:03 -0000

News from northern Minnesota: A Red Lake man is facing charges after a burglary in the Grygla area, the Bemidji City Council held the first 2023 budget discussions in a work session, the Blandin Foundation provided a grant for American Indian students studying psychology at Bemidji State, and Beltrami County and the Red Lake Nation were recognized for their work for the "Red Lake Initiative."

Monday, May 23, 2022

Mon, 23 May 2022 14:06:07 -0000

US VA Secretary Denis McDonough was in Bemidji Friday to meet with local veterans in a town hall-style listening session, the state government came close to passing historic tax cuts and may meet for a special session after last night's deadline, the state's "Click it or Ticket" campaign begins today and Dr. Donna Pawlowski was inducted into the Central States Communication Association's Hall of Fame.

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Wed, 18 May 2022 15:41:24 -0000

A fire significantly damaged a home on Cardinal Rd. NW Tuesday, four Bemidji City Council members filed for three council seats on the first day of filing, and the council learns more about the city's role in developing the Rail Corridor site

Friday, May 13, 2022

Fri, 13 May 2022 16:00:21 -0000

All about the Walleye Fishing Opener! Gov. Walz and numerous state and local officials were on hand for this morning's "Radio Row" media event ahead of the Governor's Fishing Opener this weekend around the Leech Lake Reservation. DNR reminds anglers to follow the state's laws preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Thursday, May 12, 2022

Thu, 12 May 2022 14:35:36 -0000

The city of Bemidji's 2022 Street Renewal project begins Monday, the late ice-out means colder water and slower fish for this Saturday's fishing opener, and legalized sports betting likely will not pass this legislative session.

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

Wed, 11 May 2022 15:28:58 -0000

News highlights from Northern Minnesota: A Ponemah man's body was found in the Battle River after multiple searches, Commissioner Jim Lucachick and 30 other petitioners are suing Beltrami County Board over redistricting results, spring wildfire restrictions are now in effect for northwestern Minnesota, a suspicious fire on Tranquility Lane in Eckles Township caused significant damage and led to one arrest, and the Beltrami County Sheriff's Office and Bemidji Police Department have set May 19 as the date for the Police Officers' Memorial Service.

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Tue, 10 May 2022 15:03:32 -0000

News highlights from Northern Minnesota: The Bemidji City Council discusses the pros and cons of the "strike system" as it relates to crime-free, drug-free housing stipulations in the city's rental code; a Cass Lake man was killed in an ATV crash Saturday; and the remaining ice on Lake Bemidji wrought havoc on one of the area's oldest resorts, moving inland and damaging structures.

Monday, May 9, 2022

Mon, 09 May 2022 14:08:03 -0000

News highlights from Northern Minnesota: Minnesota House passes funding for various veterans programs including final funding for Bemidji Veteran's Home, Highway 71 project begins May 16, new principal named for Bemidji's Northern Elementary School, DFL Party Chair Ken Martin highlights importance of the upcoming midterm election, and more than 1,000 graduates were celebrated in the BSU and NTC Commencement ceremonies.

Friday, May 6, 2022

Fri, 06 May 2022 14:16:33 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Dr. Ted Will received the Charlie Naylor Lifetime Achievement Award during the Bemidji Chamber of Commerce's awards of excellence luncheon, a number of other local businesses were recognized during the event, and Salon 218 makes donation to support the Edith Sanford Breast Center.

Thursday, May 5, 2022

Thu, 05 May 2022 11:54:53 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: A Bemidji man will appear in court next week on first-degree drug sales charges after a fentanyl bust last week, Beltrami County Sheriff's Chief Deputy Jarrett Walton was recently recognized for his work on the Northern Lights Task Force, four were injured in a Tuesday crash in the Waskish area, and the state will soon establish a website that will allow frontline workers to keep track of their "Hero Pay" COVID bonuses.

Wednesday, May 4, 2022

Wed, 04 May 2022 16:00:43 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Greater Bemidji is launching a Small Business Checkup Initiative to provide free support and services to the region's small businesses, a new state flag will likely go nowhere in the current state legislative session, no injuries reported in a Blackduck fire on Tuesday, and numerous young artists were awarded after the Watermark High School Art Show.

Tuesday, May 3, 2022

Tue, 03 May 2022 15:34:10 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Flooding conditions across Beltrami County are improving and the drought has been erased, and the Bemidji City Council approved a number of measures in their Monday meeting, most notably moving forward with considering a total City Hall remodel after flood damage led to the discovery of several other building issues.

Monday, May 2, 2022

Mon, 02 May 2022 15:23:42 -0000

News highlights from Northern Minnesota: The Bemidji City Council will discuss seven items of new business in their meeting tonight including a possible remodel of City Hall after its basement flooded, the DNR urges forest road and trail users to check conditions before heading out, the state's Cold Weather Rule expired but there is still time to apply for energy assistance, and one of the baby eagles in the DNR's EagleCam was pushed out of the nest and died.

Friday, April 29, 2022

Mon, 02 May 2022 15:21:45 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Flood watch extended through the weekend with additional washouts reported in northwestern Beltrami County, Minnesota gained more volunteer precipitation monitors, Bemidji School District anticipated to offer a contract to the next superintendent of Bemidji Schools next week, and the state's housing market appears to be softening compared to last year.

Thursday, April 28, 2022

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 14:49:55 -0000

MnDOT and Beltrami County will hold open houses on upcoming road projects today, BSU and NTC released commencement plans, Bemidji Schools will formalize a contract with the new superintendent next week, a Bemidji man made his first court appearance on rape and assault charges, and Highway 1 west of Red Lake is now closed due to flooding and deteroriating pavement.

Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 14:47:39 -0000

News highlights from Northern Minnesota: The Greater Bemidji Area Joint Planning Board fielded questions on zoning during a Tuesday forum and BSU marketing students pitched their products during a Mock Trade Show last week.

Tuesday, April 26, 2022

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 14:46:10 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Laporte man facing drug charges for psychedelic mushrooms and cocaine, Greater Bemidji and Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce host forum with the Greater Bemidji Area Joint Planning Board, overland flooding reminders from Beltrami County Emergency Management, MPCA predicts a less severe summer season for northern Minnesota for drought, wildfire and smoke.

Monday, April 25, 2022

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 15:25:20 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Akeley man killed in a house fire last week, Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe files an appeal opposing the City of Cohasset's approval of the Huber Woods project, flooding impacts across northern Minnesota, Bemidji man injured in Cass County crash and avian flu has killed 2 million birds so far in the latest outbreak hitting Minnesota.

Friday, April 22, 2022

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 15:20:22 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Bemidji City Council to discuss last year's financial review, gravel roads across the regionin rough shape, BSU's addiction program is moving online to better serve working professionals, DNR issues timely springtime reminders on the dangers of cold water and flooding, and clients of the Hope House spread joy during the pandemic with "smile boxes."

Thursday, April 21, 2022

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 16:02:44 -0000

News highlights from Northern Minnesota: The Bemidji Charter Commission discussed a wide variety of topics during their meeting Wednesday, some light-hearted ice-out predictions in this winter that won't quit, 13 face drug charges in a statewide drug investigation led by Cass County Sheriff's Office, and three Bemidji State employees recognized during the annual Board of Trustees Awards of Excellence.

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 15:37:13 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Beltrami County Commissioners adopt a new commissioner district map in a 3-2 vote, no injuries reported in a Wilton apartment fire earlier in the week, and House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler says affordable housing is a top-of-mind issue as the state decides what to do with a $9.25 billion surplus

Tuesday, April 19, 2022

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 15:43:42 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: The Bemidji City Council passes new ward boundaries 6-1 after a second vote on the final reading, Northwest Small Business Development Center recognized nationally, and House author of a bill allowing brewers more flexibility with off-sale optimistic the measure will clear the Senate.

Monday, April 18, 2022

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 15:39:48 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Beltrami County will hold an open house to discuss a possible new roundabout on Anne St. and Irvine Ave. next year, seven CD3 machines will be installed this week at Beltrami County's starry stonewort-infested waters, Bemidji State is hosting a number of events for Earth Week, Sanford Health and Bemidji Rotarians are sponsoring a blood screening fundraiser next month, and today is the last day to file taxes on time.

Friday, April 15, 2022

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 14:01:37 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: The Bemidji City Council will consider the future of the Neilson-Reise Arena during their meeting Monday, Minnesota's unemployment rate continues to fall for the sixth-straight month, and Support Within Reach's "Amazing Race" team registration deadline is Monday.

Thursday, April 14, 2022

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 13:51:59 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: the Mahnomen County Sheriff's Office releases video from officer-involved shooting, Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force releases first-quarter snapshot, MnDOT to hold open house for this year's Highway 71 project, a Bemidji School bus was involved in a minor traffic crash this morning, and the U.S. Geological Survey donated the Shingobee Headwaters ecological research site near Akeley to Bemidji State University.

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 15:50:41 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Beltrami County joins the Minnesota Sheriffs' Association drive to provide protective gear to the people of Ukraine, a Laporte man was injured when he lost control of a logging truck, and the Beltrami County Board held a brief meeting to review redistricting maps ahead of an expected vote next week.

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 15:29:51 -0000

News highlights from Northern Minnesota: Bemidji City Council and Red Lake Nation hold joint meeting, Sheila Murphy named new general manager of the Sanford Center, Bemidji Career Academies to receive a grant from MN Labor & Industry, Beltrami County to further discuss redistricting today, and two finalists named in the Bemidji Schools superintendent search

Monday, April 11, 2022

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 15:58:16 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: driver in Backus crash succumbs to life-threatening injuries, applications for the Bemidji Charter Commission accepted through April 29, updates on the 2022 bear hunting season, month-long crackdown on distracted driving, Beltrami County recognizes dispatchers for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, and the city of Bemidji is offering discounted rain barrels to residents.

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 15:05:45 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: ticks will soon return with the eventual springtime weather, Bemidji State University's 23rd Annual Student Achievement Conference is today, and the Beltrami County Board will hold a special work session next week to finalize a redistricting map.

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 15:56:46 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Ponemah man sentenced to 12 years in a federal prison for murder, residents are asked to check their properties for any signs of missing teen Neveah Kingbird, five candidates were named finalists for the Bemidji Superintendent search (NTC's Darrin Strosahl withdrew this morning), and the proposed new ward boundaries for the City of Bemidji moved past a second reading after a contentious public hearing.

Monday, April 4, 2022

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 15:02:35 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Redby man pleads guilty to murder of Red Lake Tribal Police Officer, two injured in Shevlin-area crash, Bemidji City Council to hold public hearing on new proposed ward boundaries, Bemidji State University will soon offer an online accounting certificate, and two Bemidji High School speakers are heading to the state championship competition.

Friday, April 1, 2022

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 14:42:23 -0000

News from northern Minnesota. Topics include the upcoming MnDOT road construction schedule, Shopko Optical acquired Bemidji's Third Street Optical, Nicholas Taylor named inaugural director of civil rights and affirmative action at BSU, Bemidji man pleads guilty to malicious punishment of a six-week-old infant, and United Way of Bemidji Area recognized for their efforts to prevent child abuse.

Thursday, March 31, 2022

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 13:37:12 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota. Topics include a 14-year-old Kelliher teen seriously injured in an ATV crash, wet snow conditions were a factor more than 150 crashes across the state with two in the area, northern MN wastewater treatment facilities recognized by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, a teenager was sentenced to seven years in prison for a homicide on Fond du Lac Reservation, Andrew Luger is once again the U.S. Attorney for the Minnesota District, and next week is Minnesota Severe Weather Awareness Week.

Wednesday, March 30, 2022

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 15:30:47 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota. Topics include a Bemidji man entering not guilty pleas to falsely reporting a crime among other charges, homeowners urged to prepare for the emergence of bears from hibernation, Minnesota DEED is seeking applicants for the Emerging Entrepreneur Board, two arrested and more than 100 grams of fentanyl seized in Red Lake drug bust, and the Bemidji School Board will meet Monday to name finalists in the superintendent search.

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 15:02:20 -0000

News highlights from Northern Minnesota. Topics include the MN Governor's 2022 Fishing Opener coming to the Chippewa National Forest and Leech Lake Reservation, a Vietnam Veterans Appreciation Day program and dinner at the Bagley Legion Post, free at-home COVID-19 rapid tests now available through MN, and Gov. Tim Walz's State of the State Address set for April 24.

Episode 3: 3/28/22

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 16:55:29 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota: Electronic cigarette is the believed cause of a downtown Bemidji fire, Captain Jason Riggs joins the list of Beltrami County Sheriff candidates, Bemidji High School Speech Team places 3rd in Grand Rapids meet, five BSU science majors receive scholarships to fund their research projects, and the Shamrock Shake/Oreo McFlurry fundraiser raised $85,000 for Ronald McDonald Houses in Minnesota.

Episode 2: 3/25/22

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 15:51:24 -0000

News highlights from northern Minnesota. A Bemidji man is expected to enter a plea for a bizarre crime from May 2021, Minnesota's unemployment rate is the lowest it has been since 1999 and the Minnesota DNR is accepting applications for their Conservation Officer prep program.

Episode 1: 3/24/22

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 15:14:00 -0000

Audio news stories from around northern Minnesota. DNR reminding northern Minnesotans ahead of the spring burning restriction season, Bemidji State is offering a new early childhood minor, chronic wasting disease detected in a wild deer in Grand Rapids, and U.S. Senator Tina Smith discusses the Rural MOMS Act, to keep maternity wards in rural America open.