Local and Regional News, Wednesday 3/4/2026

The Minnesota D-N-R is looking for applicants for its Conservation Officer Prep program, which helps people without law enforcement experience become conservation officers. As part of the process, the D-N-R’s Enforcement Division will hold two virtual open houses with information on conservation officer careers and the hiring process.
Both sessions will stream on the division’s Facebook page at noon this Thursday, and noon on Tuesday, March 17th. Applications are open now through March 31st.

The Town of Fort Frances has extended the nomination deadline for the Outstanding Citizens 2026 Awards to Wednesday, March 4th.
Organizers say nominations are still being accepted in all categories, but so far there have been none submitted for Volunteer Leadership, Citizen of the Year – Junior Category for youth 18 and under, and Lifetime Volunteer – In Memoriam.
Community members are encouraged to recognize someone making a difference by submitting a nomination online at fortfrances.ca/nominate.
For questions, contact the Office of the Clerk at clerks@fortfrances.ca or call 807-274-5323.

JJ McBride from the International Falls Area Chamber of Commerce stopped by yesterday to talk about the upcoming Annual Awards Gala — and nominations are now open.

Nominees can be submitted using a QR code posted around town and on the Chamber’s Facebook page, or by visiting ifallschamber.com under the events tab.
New this year, the Rainy Lake CVB is partnering on a Hospitality Award, recognizing individuals who make a difference in tourism and customer service.

The 2026 Annual Awards Gala will be held Thursday, April 23rd at the Thunderbird, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Sponsors and raffle donations are still welcome.
For full details or to submit a nomination, visit ifallschamber.com.