Ground Level®: Amplifying Community Voices

Your story is powerful. The stories you share with others honor the complexity of our communities while forging a more equitable and vibrant future.

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We’d like to hear your thoughts and questions. Your ideas about solutions. How are your communities? What are you seeing today? And what do you want to see tomorrow?

Note that while we will exercise editorial judgment for language, length and avoiding personal attacks, we will not sacrifice your meaning. We will ensure your main message comes through on air and online.

October 11, 2013 3:15 AM

“Go get it”: Trying to spur entrepreneurism in International Falls

In the wake of layoffs at the Boise paper mill in International Falls, locals are trying to create an atmosphere that encourages small businesses.

by Jennifer Vogel

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October 10, 2013 10:57 AM

Shutdown slows International Falls response to layoffs

When layoffs were announced at the paper mill that is the economic mainstay of International Falls, residents established an economic response team focused in three areas. But the initial step of seeking $550,000 in federal money to help has been stymied by the federal government shutdown.

by Dave Peters

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October 9, 2013 4:59 AM

Brewery? Hydroponic gardening? Tourism? What might International Falls try?

International Falls residents suggest tourism, a brewery, hydroponic gardening, entrepreneurship and more as means to reinvent their community in the wake of paper mill job cuts.

by Dave Peters

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October 8, 2013 3:00 AM

In wake of Boise layoffs, Dayton to visit International Falls

Governor Mark Dayton will visit International Falls tomorrow to find out how he can help in the wake of major layoffs at the Boise paper mill and an announced sale of the plant.

by Jennifer Vogel

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October 4, 2013 6:47 AM

Data nerds take notice: How would you portray rural Minnesota?

What can data show us about the changing rural Minnesota landscape? Here’s a chance to show what you can do.

by Dave Peters

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September 27, 2013 1:01 AM

Last days for many at the Boise paper mill in International Falls

As layoffs loom at the Boise paper mill in International Falls, workers look for new jobs and retraining.

by Jennifer Vogel

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September 26, 2013 2:53 AM

As Boise layoffs hit, trying to make new jobs in International Falls

By the end of this coming Monday, 265 workers will have lost their jobs at the Boise paper mill in International Falls. That has people in the city talking about diversifying the economy.

by Jennifer Vogel

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September 25, 2013 4:00 AM

Can International Falls reinvent itself?

We asked International Falls residents how they might reinvent the community in the wake of a declining paper industry. We heard everything from using the great-tasting water for beer to hoping an entrepreneurial graduate comes back with a big idea.

by Dave Peters

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September 17, 2013 6:13 AM

Boise to sell to PCA, impact on International Falls plant uncertain

Boise Inc. is expected to sell to Illinois-based Packaging Corporation of America by the end of the year, potentially affecting the paper mill in International Falls. The city’s mayor Bob Anderson said this could be a positive turn for the plant, which is in the midst of significant layoffs.

by Jennifer Vogel