Minnesota is moving forward with a new initiative to provide behavioral health services to people before they’re released from jail or prison. Pending federal approval, eligible inmates at eight pilot sites, including the Red Lake Detention Center in northwest Minnesota, could receive Medicaid-covered mental health, substance use, and chronic health care services during the 60 days before release beginning in 2028. 

State officials say the program aims to reduce overdose deaths, improve public safety, and help people successfully transition back into their communities. Minnesota plans to expand the program statewide after evaluating the pilot.

The Warroad Fourth of July Celebration is still looking for volunteers ahead of this week’s festivities. Organizers say 38 volunteer shifts remain open for July 3rd and 4th. Students needing community service hours, local groups, businesses, and individual volunteers are all encouraged to sign up. 

Opportunities include staffing the information booth and monitoring inflatables at The Point, with a variety of shifts available. Some volunteer positions may also include paid opportunities, with details listed on the registration form. For more information or to sign up, visit the This is Warroad Facebook page.

By: Graham Scher | R&J Broadcasting Inc.

LAKE OF THE WOODS, Minn — A new memoir rooted in the history of Lake of the Woods will be the focus of two upcoming community events in Warroad and Roseau. Author Jill D. Swenson will visit the area to discuss The Land of Everlasting Sky: A Memoir of Loss and Legacy on Lake of the Woods, a book that explores the region’s history through the story of the Ojibway medicine man known as “Everlasting Sky.” 

Joining her for both events will be Don Kakaygeesick, Everlasting Sky’s great-grandson, offering a unique local and family perspective on the story. The first conversation takes place Wednesday, July 9th at 6:30 p.m. at the Warroad Public Library, followed by a second event Monday, July 13th at 11 a.m. at the Roseau County Museum. 

Both programs are free and open to the public. Swenson, a Wisconsin author and former journalism professor, has spent years researching the history and legacy of the Lake of the Woods region. She’ll also lead a Swedish wheat weaving workshop at the Warroad Folk School on July 14th.

By: Graham Scher | R&J Broadcasting Inc.

CROOKSTON, Minn — University of Minnesota Extension is offering a hands-on farm equipment safety program next month aimed at helping new and inexperienced machinery operators build confidence behind the wheel.

The Drive & Thrive workshop will be held July 27 at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center in Crookston, with a second session on July 28 possible if enough people register.

Participants will receive one-on-one instruction operating a tractor with an implement and a pickup truck with a trailer. The training also covers safely hooking up equipment, backing trailers and implements, tractor controls, hazard awareness, basic maintenance, and practical farm safety skills. Group sessions will also include farm risk management and first aid basics.

The workshop is open to adults 18 and older, regardless of experience level. Registration is limited, and the cost is $35, which includes a meal.