Latest News From Minnesota Daily News Dot Com

August 3, 2026

The Bemidji Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating 14 year old Amealieano Lussier, who was reported as a runaway Friday, and last seen in the area of Irvine Ave. Amealieano Lussier is 5’02”, 110 lbs, and was last seen wearing a white tee shirt, black sweatshirt, black shorts, and black shoes. If you have any information regarding Amealieano Lussier’s whereabouts, please contact the Bemidji Police Department at 218-333-9111.



The Minnesota Department of Education is launching a pilot program called the Minnesota Kindergarten Fall Assessment (MnKFA) this fall in 70 schools across 45 districts, including Kelliher Public Schools. MnKFA focuses on observing daily classroom activities like communication and play, rather than testing readiness or skills since kindergarten eligibility is based on age. Information gathered from MnKFA will help schools tailor instruction to meet kindergartners' needs and guide discussions about their development. The pilot will also aid in developing training and resources for a statewide rollout in fall 2027.

Bemidji area state representatives are focused on past and upcoming legislative sessions, discussing various issues at town hall meetings. Senate District 2 Rep. Steve Green, House 2A Rep. Bidal Duran, and House 2B Rep. Matt Bliss have held three town hall events recently. These discussions, including one last week, aim to address topics ahead of the November 3 general election, like the "Childcare for All" initiative. According to an article in the Bemidji Pioneer, this proposal seeks to make childcare either free or affordable, costing no more than 7% of a family's income. Organizers estimate a $2-4 billion yearly investment is needed, though Rep. Duran believes $5 billion is more realistic, noting the high costs of childcare in Minnesota.

The 20th Annual Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival took place over the weekend, where the Nordic Whitecaps won the championship race, defeating the HydraHeads, who had 11 previous titles. A large crowd cheered as the close race unfolded, with the Nordic Whitecaps finishing at 2:03.17, just ahead of the HydraHeads at 2:03.33. The team mainly consisted of younger members from the Bemidji High School Nordic Ski Team. The Dragon Boat Festival started on Thursday with the Sanford Health TacoFest, the Dondelinger GM Sprint Cup Races Friday night, live music Friday, then a full day of races on Saturday, with a Cornhole tournament wrapping up the Festival Saturday night. All events raise money for local charities.

A 60-year-old man from Mahnomen died due to injuries from a crash involving three vehicles and a motorcycle near downtown Fargo. The North Dakota Highway Patrol reported that the incident occurred at about 3:21 p.m. on Thursday. The man was riding his Harley-Davidson and ran a red light, hitting a Subaru driven by a 53-year-old Fargo woman. He was thrown from his bike and then hit by a Ford F150. Although the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet and was taken to the hospital, he later died. No other injuries were reported, and everyone else involved was wearing seat belts. The crash closed the intersection for several hours and is still under investigation.

Tick-borne illnesses are becoming more common, with about 50,000 cases reported each year in the U-S, affecting areas like northern Minnesota. Elizabeth Schiffman, an epidemiologist supervisor at the Minnesota Department of Health, noted that Hubbard County is a high-risk area for these diseases due to the habitat favorable for black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. These ticks are the main carriers of illness, and they are smaller and darker than the American dog tick, which poses little risk. The peak season for tick issues is from May to early July, with fewer interactions in hotter months and potential resurgence in the fall. Every county in Minnesota north of Highway 10, has a rating of "high" risk.

July 31, 2026

The Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival is underway. The action heats up today, starting with team practice sessions at 3:00 PM, followed by the Parade of Teams and Opening Ceremony at 6:00 PM. Spectators can line the waterfront to watch the Dondelinger GM Sprint Cup Races kick off at 7:00 PM, capped off with live music from the Empty Cooler Band at the Dragon’s Den. The excitement continues all day tomorrow, with the main dragon boat races cutting across Lake Bemidji, alongside a full food court, family activities, and entertainment along the shore. For a complete schedule of events, visit http://bemidjidragonboat.com.

Public schools in Minnesota are spreading the word about a constitutional amendment on the November ballot that could increase school funding. This amendment would allow voters to approve a boost in the revenue from the "Permanent School Fund," created over a century ago from timber and minerals sales. Schools are using social media and newsletters to inform the public and plan to speak at City Council meetings, Chamber of Commerce events, and back-to-school gatherings. The fund has grown significantly, increasing from $658 million in 2010 to $2.3 billion in 2025, with districts receiving annual funding from it. If the amendment passes, the distribution to schools would rise from the current 2% to 2.5% to 4.5% of the fund's average market value, potentially increasing per-pupil funding by about 40%.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking a new design for the State Parks and Trails license plate after 10 years. Artists, who must be Minnesota residents, can submit designs celebrating the North Shore and Lake Superior agate. Each license plate costs $60, contributing over $16 million toward the maintenance of state parks and trails. Submissions are open from September 15 to October 31. A DNR panel will select finalists, and the top three designs will be voted on by the public in December.

The Bemidji Area Community Band’s 2026 season includes three concerts so far, each with unique themes. The first concert, directed by Ryan Webber on June 14, celebrated sports and games. On June 28, conductor Katrina Stewart led a patriotic concert ahead of the Fourth of July. Webber returned on July 19 to explore the “6-7” meme theme. The next concert on Sunday will feature audience favorites, including a medley titled “James Horner Movie Magic” and Frank Ticheli’s “Joy” conducted by guest Maggy Rusche. The concert will close with John Wasson's “Curtain Call. ” The performance starts at 7 p.m. on Sunday on the lawn south of Bangsberg Fine Arts Complex. If it rains, the concert will move indoors at Bangsberg.

The Beltrami County Highway Division will be holding an informational meeting regarding the reconstruction of Beltrami County State Aid Highway 42 (Lakewood Dr NW) on August 26th, 2026, at 6PM at the Northern Town Hall located at 445 Town Hall Rd NW, Bemidji, MN. Representatives from the Beltrami County Highway Division will give a brief overview of the construction plans. Members of the public who utilize CSAH 42 are encouraged to attend. No official action will be taken at this meeting. Information on the upcoming construction will be provided and questions will be taken. The area being reconstructed is CSAH 42 from CSAH 15 (Irvine Ave NW) to CSAH 21 (Bemidji Ave N.)

Peacemaker Resources, together with the Boys and Girls Club of the Leech Lake Area, invites the community to support local youth through upcoming events. A Family Fun Gathering in Cass Lake on July 22 attracted nearly 100 attendees and featured local resources and activities, along with a meal. The next event is set for August 5 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Walker Area Community Center, where community members can enjoy food and activities. The final event is planned for later in August. More information is available at http://PeacemakerResources.org.

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe District Three Office is hosting its annual Elder Picnic on Tuesday, August 4. The celebration will take place under the big tent at Cedar Lakes Casino and Hotel from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM. Elders can look forward to door prizes, food, live entertainment, and plenty of activities, including Bingo 20/20, a karaoke contest, and a contest for the best summer outfit. For more information, contact Toni at 218-513-7804 or Kari at 218-368-0116.

July 30, 2026

The annual Sanford Health Taco Fest for the United Way takes place today, until 7:00 PM. Hosted inside the Dragon Boat Festival Tent at the Lake Bemidji Waterfront, the event features fresh tacos served on fry bread, corn, or flour tortillas with all the trimmings, alongside a beverage and dessert. Presented by Lueken’s Village Foods, meals are available for $12, with 100% of the proceeds directly supporting the United Way of Bemidji Area. Live music will also be featured throughout Taco Fest, and again tonight with Sarah Kelley performing from 7:30pm to 10pm. The action heats up then on Friday, starting with team practice sessions at 3:00 PM, followed by the colorful Parade of Teams and Opening Ceremony at 6:00 PM. Spectators can line the waterfront to watch the thrilling Dondelinger GM Sprint Cup Races kick off at 7:00 PM, capped off with live music from the Empty Cooler Band at the Dragon’s Den. The excitement continues all day Saturday, with the main dragon boat races cutting across Lake Bemidji, alongside a full food court, family activities, and entertainment along the shore. For a complete schedule of events, visit http://bemidjidragonboat.com.

Red Lake Nation received the No Child Left Inside grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. This grant will support youth outdoor education, including hunter's education, wildlife knowledge, fishing, and boating activities. The grant provides up to $25,000 and will be available until June 2027, offering lifelong certifications. Community involvement in outdoor activities will be encouraged, with updates and registration available on the Red Lake Conservation Facebook page.

Voters across the Leech Lake Nation are getting ready for the primary election, with early voting currently underway ahead of the August 11th deadline. Polling locations and hours vary across counties. In Cass County, early voting is available at locations including the Leech Lake Reservation Tribal Headquarters in Cass Lake, the Cass County Courthouse in Walker, and various city halls. Beltrami County voters can cast their ballots at the Auditor-Treasurer's Office in Bemidji, with select evening hours scheduled at community centers in Little Rock, Ponemah, Red Lake, and Redby. Additional polling locations are also open in Itasca and Hennepin counties. Band members with questions can contact LLBO Government Relations at 218-335-8200.

Young adults in Beltrami and Cass counties have a unique opportunity to earn while they learn. BI-CAP YouthBuild is currently recruiting participants for its upcoming September 2026 and March 2027 orientation cohorts. The pre-apprenticeship program is open to individuals ages 16 to 24, allowing participants to earn an hourly wage while working toward a high school diploma, GED, or adult diploma. Students receive hands-on training and classroom instruction in fields like construction, nursing, and child development, while gaining valuable career and life skills. Applications and eligibility forms are due this week, by July 31st, to be considered for the September orientation. You can pick up forms at the BI-CAP office on Mill Street in Bemidji or visit http://bicap.org for more information.

Park Rapids area patients can now use an Essentia Health pharmacy inside Hugo’s Family Marketplace. It connects to patients' electronic medical records for better prescription management. Services offered include local delivery, immunizations, and medication management consultations. The pharmacy is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

July 29, 2026

During a recent Bemidji City Council work session, three plans for managing the Sanford Center were discussed as the current contract with ASM Global approaches its expiration in March 2027. The council is considering options beyond merely renewing the contract due to ongoing budget issues and limited control over operations. The proposed options include: renewing the contract with ASM Global or hiring a new management company, having the city take direct management of the center, or a hybrid model where the city manages some aspects while outsourcing others. Council members raised concerns about the budget deficit tied to the center and expressed a desire to retain current staff, while others noted that new hires might be necessary. Mayor Jorge Prince focused on creating a sustainable long-term approach and noted that local government could have better budget control. He also mentioned the potential of implementing a hospitality tax to generate additional revenue. City Manager Rich Spiczka echoed these concerns, hoping to avoid past mistakes and keep funds local. He compared the situation to Mankato, which saw higher event success. There was no action taken during this meeting, and discussions will continue in future sessions.

The Nevis School Board has approved policy changes for the 2026-27 school year. Each student will receive a personal device: iPads for elementary students and Chromebooks for high schoolers, which they will keep for the entire year. If a device is damaged, the student will be billed. Superintendent Renae Seykora noted this will encourage careful handling. Additionally, sixth graders cannot ride fan buses to postseason sports events due to MSHSL rules. High school seniors must now take a “career investigations” course to help them prepare for their future, focusing on job descriptions, resumes, and interview skills.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Minnesota State Patrol remind WE Fest attendees that parking is not allowed along Highway 59 before noon on August 3. Vehicles arriving before this time will be removed. After noon, cars can park on the shoulder but at the owner's risk. Guests must stay in their vehicles and cannot set up camps or grills outside. The area will be monitored by State Patrol and WE Fest Security.

The Minnesota DNR warns that hot summer weather is harming fish in the state. They report over 200 fish deaths due to warm water and low oxygen. Minnesotans are asked to report fish kills online, and to protect shoreline vegetation and reduce runoff. Anglers should handle fish carefully during extreme heat.

The 7th Annual United Way Fishing Tournament was a success, thanks to presenting sponsor Lueken’s Village Foods and other supporters. In the Walleye category, first place went to Scott Weaver and Andrew Bautch, while the Bass category was won by Tyler and Adam Winkka. The Deerwood Bank Big Walleye Award was given for a 32.25-inch catch, and the Keg N’ Cork Big Bass Award was for a 21.5-inch catch, with the Winkka team donating their $500 prize back to United Way. More information at https://UnitedWayBemidji.org.

You can show appreciation for your favorite local businesses in the Bemidji Pioneer's 2026 Best of the Best contest. Nominations are open until August 12. You can nominate businesses in various categories, such as Health & Beauty and Food & Beverage. Visit http://bestofthemidwest.com/bemidji to nominate, vote, and see last year’s winners.

July 28, 2026

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking public input on a draft update of the Leech Lake fisheries management plan. The last update was in 2021, and the new plan aims to reflect current public values regarding lake management. This plan builds on previous successes by updating goals and actions to maintain a healthy fishery. Key focuses include balancing predator-prey relationships, especially between adult walleye and perch populations, and expanding management for species like muskellunge, northern pike, sunfish, and crappie. The updated plan will guide fish population management for the next ten years, with potential evaluations in five years. The public can obtain the draft online and submit comments via an online form at http://mndnr.gov/leechlake, emailing walker.fisheries@state.mn.us, calling 218-552-2330, or mailing comments to 07316 State 371 NW, Walker, Minnesota 56484, until August 20.

A repeated domestic assault offender, 46-year-old Allen Cloud of Red Lake, was sentenced to over three years in prison. Chief U-S District Judge Eric Tostrud sentenced him to 41 months after Cloud pleaded guilty to domestic assault causing significant harm. He had a history of at least five prior convictions for domestic violence against the same victim.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is launching its “royalty” for 2025, recognizing members who have lost the most weight by reaching their goal weight. Dorothy Limanen of Eveleth lost 99.75 pounds and Dennis Bachand of Bemidji lost 112.8 pounds, making them the 2025 Minnesota Queen and King, honored at an event last May. TOPS offers group support, health education, and recognition to help members manage their weight. In Minnesota, the adult obesity rate is 32.3%, and TOPS members lost a total of 7,096 pounds in 2025. Weekly meetings, held both in-person and online, are essential for support, starting with weigh-ins and sharing, followed by health programs and recognition. Visitors can attend a first meeting for free.

Kickstands went up for the 2026 Bike MS Ride Across Minnesota yesterday. This five-day ride started in Menahga, goes through Park Rapids, Wadena, and Pequot Lakes, and returns to Menahga, covering a total of 277 miles. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) organizes this event to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis, which affects around 1 million people in the U-S There are about 270 riders participating, and many local volunteers have helped to make the event possible.

A driver was injured in a two-vehicle crash in Hubbard County. The Minnesota State Patrol reported the accident happened at around 2:20 p.m. on State Hwy. 34. Ahna Schilling, 22, driving a Chevrolet Equinox, was injured and taken to CHI St. Joseph’s Health. Thomas Jacobson, 66, in the GMC Sierra, was uninjured. Meanwhile, a driver was airlifted to St. Cloud after a rollover accident on July 19 in Lake Emma Township. The Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office reported that Kenneth Danks, 60, lost control of his SUV and rolled it after hitting an approach. There was no suspicion of alcohol use, and Danks was treated on-site before transport.

Bemidji State University is currently seeking applicants for a full-time Retention and Recruitment Specialist for its Ojibwe Teacher Training Program. The position focuses on statewide outreach, student success support, and building partnerships with tribal communities and schools. Applicants should have a background in education, student affairs, or Indigenous studies, with knowledge of Ojibwe educational pathways. Fluency in the Ojibwe language is preferred. The closing date to apply is Wednesday, August 19, 2026, just after midnight.