By Graham Scher – R & J Broadcasting | November 19, 2025

Grygla, MINN. – The Minnesota Department of Health has awarded six recipients for their work in rural communities. 

Four individuals earned awards for their outstanding work in rural healthcare including Nicole Kiesow of Grygla. Nicole is a part of the Resource Staff as the Librarian & Education Enhancement Tutor for Grace Christian Academy.

Others awarded include Rick Ash of United Hospital District in Fairmont, Dr. Joseph Corser of Sanford Bemidji and Bagley, and Dr. Ray Christensen from the University of Minnesota Medical School. 

Two organizations also received team awards: the Nicotine-Free Greater Mankato Coalition and Elevate in Perham.

MDH recognized these individuals in stating these leaders strengthen local families in need and local economies.

Garden Valley Technologies in Thief River Falls will be launching another round of their voluntary Discounted Capital Buyout Program, and members are now able to apply. Garden Valley CEO and General manager Tim Brinkman says this round of buyouts will be similar to their 2023 buyouts.

Brinkman says there have been some changes made to this year’s buyout program, and he explains how it will work.

The application period is open through Friday, November 21, and Brinkman explains how you can apply to be entered into the buyout program pool. 

You can find more information on the application at Garden Valley Tech’s website.

Give to the Max Day is today, and the Northern Minnesota Robotics Conference (NMRC) is asking that you consider a donation to them in celebration. NMRC Representative Natasha Olsonawski says all the proceeds raised from Give to the Max Day will go toward a project that benefits every team in the NMRC.

Olsanawski also explains how you can donate.

Again, you can donate by going to their website, nmrconference.org, or the NMRC Give to the Max donation page.