AREA BRIEFS

STAPLES -- Lawmakers and citizens from around the region will take part in a dialogue on issues and opportunities at the Region Five Development Commission's legislative forum at 6 p.m. Sept. 15 at T. Maxwell's in Staples.

The forum will begin with a welcome and an issue and opportunity discussion. The legislative panel is set to begin at 7 p.m. and will conclude by 8:30 p.m.

Legislators who have confirmed their attendance are: Sen. Carrie Ruud, R-Breezy Point; Sen. Cal Larson, R-Fergus Falls; Sen. Dallas Sams, DFL-Staples; Sen. Paul Koering, R-Fort Ripley; Sen. Betsy Wergin, R-Princeton; Rep. Frank Moe, DFL-Bemidji; Rep. Larry Howes, R-Walker; Rep. Dean Simpson, R-New York Mills; Rep. Mary Ellen Otremba, DFL-Long Prairie; Rep. Paul Gazelka, R-Brainerd; Rep. Greg Blaine, R-Little Falls; and Rep. Sondra Erickson, R-Princeton.

Lori Sturdevant, Capitol reporter, editorial writer and columnist with the Star Tribune of Minneapolis, will moderate the panel discussion.

The Region Five Development Commission's objective is to enhance the vitality and quality of life of Cass, Crow Wing, Morrison, Todd and Wadena counties.

Pequot Lakes School Board calls special meeting Thursday

PEQUOT LAKES -- The Pequot Lakes School Board will meet in a special meeting at 3 p.m. Thursday in the high school gathering room.

Agenda items include the approval of new staff positions and staff contracts and a summary of the superintendent evaluation.