In Milan, Micronesian immigrants add vibrancy

About a third of the population of this small town is from the South Pacific and they are enjoying their new life in Minnesota. Their new town is enjoying them too. - - Donna Poisl

by Dan Olson, Minnesota Public Radio

MILAN, Minn. — If there's no single formula to keep small rural communities vibrant, tiny Milan about three hours west of the Twin Cities proves it.

Its population was down to 250 in the 2000 census, but that was about the time Michael Elias and family members arrived from their South Pacific homeland.

Elias says they came because of the good schools, jobs and because their island nation faces a climate change reality.
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