STAPLES - Region Five Development Commission (R5DC) has announced its annual award recipients, recognizing exceptional partners whose leadership and collaboration have strengthened communities and advanced economic development across Central Minnesota. Recipients were recognized at an event held at Gather on 3 in Brainerd, MN, on Thursday, December 4th, 2025.   Doug Kern (R5DC), Jason Atwater, Tyler Glynn, Cheryal Hills (R5DC), Greg Springer, and Max Walter for CTC. (L to R)

PILLAGER, MN—The City of Pillager is updating its Comprehensive Plan and is seeking community input to help create community-developed goals and aspirations to guide future planning efforts. Pillager area residents are invited to attend a Community Visioning Session on Tuesday, January 6, at 5:30 p.m. at the Pillager School CTC Center, 323 East 2 nd  Street South in Pillager.   Community members are asked to participate in the Visioning Session to learn more, share ideas, and

Ron Morris has dedicated his life to the printing industry, emphasizing community connection and storytelling.

A small-town business with big-time impact—Bell Tech CNC Machining is proving that the right support can turn a vision into success.

Minnesota’s Ag Mental Health Program offers free, flexible support to help farmers manage stress, finances, and mental well-being.

In the quiet town of Wadena, Minnesota, a story is brewing. It’s a story of dreams realized, challenges faced, and the steady heartbeat...

Region Five Development Commission (R5DC) welcomes the addition of Brendan Lee-Gilligan. Lee-Gilligan joins R5DC as a Minnesota...

The Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group (CSG) interviewed staff at Region Five Development Commission (R5DC) as part of their...