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.

Call 651-228-4800 and leave us a voice memo. If you're more comfortable texting, you can text “Hello” to 1-833-870-4111. You can also email us at tell@mpr.org and join in on conversations in our Ground Level Facebook group.

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.

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.
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.
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.