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A Step into the Future: Our New Geothermal System Saves Energy and Costs
I’m Tobias Buening, an energy engineering student from FH Münster University of Applied Sciences in Germany. As the 2025 Energy Engineering Intern at West Central Initiative, I’ve been studying how our geothermal system performs by looking at its energy use and cost savings as part of my bachelor’s thesis. After analyzing more than a year’s worth…
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Celebrating Community, Courage, and Connection with Local Pride Organizations
Pride is an important celebration. It celebrates individuals for who they are and honors the resiliency of the LGBTQIA+ community. The first Pride events were organized marches, held in June 1970 in New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago to honor the Stonewall Riots of 1969. Since then, Pride has become a global movement….
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Saving Rainwater — One Barrel at a Time
Did you know that just one-tenth of an inch of rain on a 1,000 square foot roof can fill a 55-gallon rain barrel? If you’re looking for a way to conserve water and live more sustainably, rain barrels are an easy and impactful place to start. We recently connected with two residents already using rain…
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West Central Initiative Awards More Than $114,000 in Grants from Personally Endowed Funds
Funds benefit organizations serving the Fergus Falls, Perham, and Dent communities West Central Initiative awarded 54 grants totaling more than $114,000 to organizations serving the Fergus Falls, Perham, and Dent communities from three personally endowed funds. “The Deloris Barnack Kenner, Floyd and Harriet Miller, and Inga M. Johnson Funds were established to create lasting impacts…
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Should I Buy an Electric Vehicle? Rural EV Drivers Share Their Experiences
Thinking about buying an electric vehicle (EV)? With increasing gas prices and concern about climate impacts, more people are curious about going electric than ever before. But finding reliable info isn’t always easy. Especially in rural Minnesota, where concerns about cold weather and a lack of charging options dominate the conversation, car buyers are often…
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SoapWerks Naturals’ New Owner Keeps Things Fresh
SoapWerks Naturals, a Fergus Falls staple known for its sustainable and local approach to natural bath, body, and home products, is embarking on a new chapter with new owner Chrissy Davenport. Creative Solutions Lead to Entrepreneurship Chrissy is the owner of Hay Ewe Hill Farm, a small farm with sheep, cattle, and chickens outside of…
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