Have you ever moved to a new place? How long did it take before you felt like you really fit in?  

To encourage civic engagement and build a greater sense of inclusion in our region, ERJPB hosted a Newcomers Dinner on May 4 at the Biwabik Pavilion. Approximately a dozen folks who recently moved to the East Range attended for the chance to meet with local leaders, including several mayors and representatives from the local police department. 

At the event, one attendee shared that she had been nervous about moving to Biwabik and wondered how she would make friends. She added that she felt much better about moving to Biwabik thanks to the May 4 gathering.  

Following the event, attendees received emails thanking them for their participation. These follow-ups included welcome packets with links out to resources for local events and businesses.  

Our marketing subcommittee has begun discussing a second newcomer dinner for autumn. If you have new neighbors and have been wondering how you might be able to get to know them a little better, this event series will be an excellent way to connect and help them feel more at home.  

The May 4 Newcomers Dinner was sponsored by the Iron Range Tourism Bureau.