Local and Regional News, Monday 4/27/2026

The Koochiching County Board meets Tuesday with several items on the agenda. Commissioners are expected to consider highway department requests to seek bids for this year’s crack sealing and mastic repair project, along with road striping work across several county routes.
Board members will also hear an update on local option sales tax projects and review a proposed technology infrastructure upgrade for county information systems.
Also scheduled is an informational update from Voyageurs National Park and consideration of an appointment to the County Extension Committee.
The meeting begins Tuesday morning at the Koochiching County Courthouse.

Slumberland in International Falls kicked off its annual Friends and Family Sale Friday, featuring some of the biggest discounts of the year.
Store manager Roxanne Spreco says shoppers can save even more on already reduced prices.

Spreco says the event includes deals on mattresses, furniture, pillows and clearance items.

The sale ends today from 10 to 6.

A strong turnout and sunny skies helped make this year’s Bike Rodeo a big success in International Falls over the weekend, as families packed the event for safety tips, obstacle courses, and free helmets for kids.
Deputy Curtis Turbin and Officer Jay Taylor said they were impressed by the crowd.

Public Health’s Isabella Boorman says promotion around the community helped bring families out.
Boorman says nearly all of the free helmets were claimed before the event ended.

Young rider Wyatt Lehmeyer says he also picked up some valuable skills.

Organizers say they hope to build on the success and bring the Bike Rodeo back again next year.

Fort Frances Town Council meets Monday evening with several key items on the agenda. Council is expected to consider proposed locations for the community dog park, along with updates involving Memorial Sports Centre dressing rooms.
Council will also review funding requests for a new RibFest event, including a proposed town sponsorship and contingency support to help launch the festival as a signature community event.
Also up for discussion is funding for the Tournament and Events Growth Coordinator position through the end of October.
In infrastructure matters, council is set to review engineering contracts for lift station upgrades and rehabilitation work at the Fort Frances Water Treatment Plant.
The meeting begins at 5 p.m. at the Civic Centre and will also be available online.

The countdown is on for the Dancing with Darcy annual recital, happening this weekend in International Falls.
This year’s theme is “Take It From the Top,” featuring a greatest hits-style lineup of music and performances.

Darcy and her Dancers says audiences can expect a high-energy show with more than 30 routines, including jazz, tap, and group productions.
Showtimes are set for Saturday and Sunday, with tickets available in advance and at the door.