PREVENT A WINTER BLOOD SHORTAGE
The American Red Cross is teetering on a blood shortage this winter, which could lead to a disruption in lifesaving care. Donors are urged to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now.
As a thank-you to donors for helping address the need for blood and platelets during the critical post-holiday time, those who come to give Jan. 1-25, 2026, will be automatically entered for a chance to win an exciting Super Bowl LX giveaway. See RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl for full details.
HCSCC OPENS NEW EXHIBIT
MOORHEAD – The Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County (HCSCC) is excited to announce the opening of a new exhibit – Gadgets Galore! Transforming the American Household on January 17 in the Third Floor Gallery of the Hjemkomst Center. Gadgets Galore! will be on display until June 7, 2026.
Possers, stereoscopes, and graphophones? At one time, each of these gadgets was a new invention – the latest and greatest item, and one everyone wanted to own. Uncover the histories of these strange objects, and how their invention led to the gadgets that are integral to our lives today.
A myriad of gadgets, both recognizable and strange, will be on display in Gadgets Galore! illustrating how industrialization transformed every American household in the 19th century. The invention of mechanical processes and the discovery of electricity and steam power would impact day-to-day life around the world. Mass production, faster communication, and more widespread transportation systems combined to industrialize the American household by inspiring the invention of the gadgets we rely on today. Artifacts from the HCSCC collection on display include telephones, cameras, toasters, and much more! All of these were made possible thanks to changes made in how we move and create things.
Additionally, HCSCC staff have expanded the exhibition with several interactive elements and stories of local inventors. View the world of the 19th and early 20th centuries through stereograph images. These images allowed Victorians to experience the far-flung corners of the world through 3D images! Local inventors will also be highlighted to demonstrate how inventions are created and patented. Visitors can test their knowledge of everyday gadgets; design their own devices for the HCSCC Patent Office, and more! This exhibit offers a fantastic blend of science, nostalgia, and hands-on learning for all ages.
For more information, see www.hcscconline.org.
MINNESOTA AWARDED $193 MILLION FOR FIRST YEAR OF RURAL HEALTH TRANSFORMATION PROGRAM
This first year of Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) investments from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) includes base funding distributed to approved states as well as significant additional funds recognizing Minnesota’s innovative plan to stabilize and strengthen health care delivery in rural communities. In 2026, all 50 states will receive first-year awards from CMS.
The funding will support strategic investments in new technology tools to bring care closer to home for rural residents; improve health outcomes for Minnesotans with or at risk of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes and chronic kidney disease; and expand the rural health care workforce through education and training pathways. Funding will also be used to enhance technology-enabled care delivery, including mobile and community-based services, strengthen provider partnerships, and bolster the financial stability of rural providers through targeted investments in technology and data infrastructure.
“With rural Minnesota facing unprecedented access and funding challenges, this award comes at a crucial time,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “It is an important investment in our rural communities, and we are excited to begin working with our partners to advance access to high-quality care, improve outcomes and ensure sustainable services in Greater Minnesota for years to come.”
Minnesota’s approved plan was built on extensive collaboration with rural community stakeholders, hospitals and health systems, safety net clinics, Tribes and local public health agencies.
MDH’s application was submitted on Nov. 4 and asked for $1 billion over five years for an average of $200 million per year. The application reflected input from more than 40 stakeholder meetings and nearly 350 public responses; state officials will continue engaging stakeholders when the implementation process begins in early 2026.
The Rural Health Transformation Program, established under H.R.1(Public Law 119-21), provides up to $50 billion nationwide over five years to support innovative rural health initiatives. States should receive more details from CMS on funding awards in the coming days.
Additional details and insights about Minnesota’s specific strategic RHTP initiatives is available on MDH’s Rural Health Transformation Program website.
MOORHEAD PUBLIC LIBRARY TO HOST A STUFFIE SLEEPOVER JANUARY 16
MOORHEAD – The Moorhead Public Library is inviting youth to bring their favorite stuffed animal to the library for an epic adventure! The library will host a special pajama Storytime on Friday, January 16 at 5 p.m., and children are encouraged to bring their favorite stuffed animals along to spend the night at the library! Participants can keep an eye on the Moorhead Public Library’s Facebook page for updates on the sleepover shenanigans and are encouraged to pick their stuffed animals up on Saturday morning with stories to tell.
All programs are open to the public and are offered free-of-charge. The Moorhead Public Library is located at 118 5th St. S. A full calendar of events can be found at larl.org/events.
Magnifi Financial Partners with Greenlight® to Help Parents Raise
Financially Smart Kids and Teens
MOORHEAD – Magnifi Financial Credit Union (Magnifi) has announced a new partnership with Greenlight® Financial Technology, Inc. (“Greenlight”), bringing Magnifi members access to Greenlight’s award-winning family finance app at no cost. This collaboration highlights Magnifi’s member-first approach by empowering families and supporting the next generation in building healthy financial futures. Magnifi is proud to be the first credit union in the Midwest to offer this innovative solution integrated into its digital banking experience through Q2’s Accelerator program.
“At Magnifi, we believe in putting our members and their families first. By offering Greenlight’s innovative financial education tools, we’re helping parents equip their kids and teens with lifelong money skills,” said Ross Bloomquist, Magnifi’s Chief Experience Officer. “Together, we’re empowering families to thrive financially and focus on what matters most.”