December 27, 2015, marked an exciting day for the Bemidji High School (BHS) boys swim team, as three foreign exchange students joined the roster. Alessandro Bo from Italy, Cong Chu from China, and Marti Fabres from Spain have immersed themselves in the local culture since arriving at the start of the school year. They plan to return to their home countries at the conclusion of the spring semester, bringing with them a wealth of experience and memories from their time in the United States.
Historical Highlights from December 27
Reflecting on events from 25 years ago, on December 27, 2000, the Red Lake Band of Ojibwe celebrated the grand opening of an expanded casino facility in Warroad. The opening attracted around 200 attendees who gathered to witness the reveal of the new 180-slot-machine addition. This expansion was part of a larger plan to enhance the Seven Clans Casino, although much of the construction utilized temporary materials in anticipation of further developments.
Another notable event occurred 50 years earlier, on December 27, 1975. Gary Sargent, a former star athlete from both Bemidji High School and Bemidji State College, made headlines as he appeared at the Met Sports Center. Sargent’s Los Angeles Kings faced off against the North Stars in an NHL matchup, marking a significant milestone as he became the first former Lumberjack to reach the major leagues in professional hockey.
Looking back even further, December 27, 1925, witnessed an unusual incident involving the Christmas tree at the intersection of Beltrami Avenue and Fourth Street. A group of four youths from Turtle River encountered a mishap when their vehicle’s windshield frosted over, impairing the driver’s visibility. This unfortunate event nearly resulted in the tree being put out of commission, serving as a reminder of the importance of road safety during winter months.
These snapshots from December 27 across the decades illustrate the rich tapestry of community life in Bemidji and the surrounding areas, highlighting both the achievements and challenges faced by its residents. As the current generation of students and athletes continues to build on this legacy, they remain connected to a history that reflects resilience, celebration, and the spirit of togetherness.
