“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15 was the Bunkes’ wedding verse when they got married 75 years ago. They have lived by that verse all these years. Rob declared, “I tell the Lord everyday how thankful I am for Bettie!” Rob and Bettie first met when Rob, a farm boy from Hart, came to town for a basketball game. Bettie, a town girl who lived in … [Read more...]
The Music Runs Deep
For Arland Folstad of Spring Grove, music has always been a cherished hobby, though his primary career was farming. Music runs deep in the Folstad family. Ninety-two-year-old Folstad, of Norwegian descent, was born to Martin and Olga (Klegseth) Folstad. Among his siblings were Elmer, recognized for playing the piano with the Cutters; Beatrice, Melvin, … [Read more...]
Everyone Loves a Celebration!
Join the town of Lanesboro, Minn., in celebrating the 40th Annual Buffalo Bill Days, August 2, 3 and 4. Buffalo Bill Days has something for everyone to enjoy! Everyone loves a parade! This year’s Grand Marshals are Jerod Wagner and Jim Iverson. The two men have collectively served their community as volunteer firefighters for 70 years. Everyone loves a family movie under … [Read more...]
Passport Not Needed
A passport is not needed to experience the heritage and culture of the Scandinavian countries of Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Iceland during the 57th Annual Nordic Fest celebration in Decorah, Iowa, July 25-7. This year’s Nordic Fest theme is Uff Da! Uff Da is a familiar Norwegian phrase heard throughout Bluff County and is said after hearing bad news. “Nordic … [Read more...]
It’s A Rush
By Charlene Corson Selbee Looking for something to do this weekend? Head to Bluff Country for the annual Rushford Days celebration. Rushford, a charming town of 1,845 people, nestled along the rushing Root River in Southeast Minnesota, hosts activities for all ages at its annual celebration from July 17-21. Catch RASA’s (Rushford Area Society for the Arts) Arsenic & Old … [Read more...]
Hope Lives Here in Fillmore County
According to the Minnesota Department of Health, “Roughly 40% of Minnesota residents will receive a cancer diagnosis at some point in their lifetime.” Fillmore County has hosted Relay for Life separately from Houston County since 1997 and has raised over $2,400,000 for cancer research and local support. Host communities must commit to hosting the event two years in a row. … [Read more...]
Hidden Gems: Exploring the Enchanting Waterfalls of Bluff Country
Looking for a memorable day trip? Discover seven unique waterfalls in historic Bluff Country, each offering its own distinct charm, from a towering 200-foot cascade to an underground 60-foot wonder and a picturesque step waterfall. Prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty that awaits you. In Decorah, explore three captivating waterfalls. Malanaphy Falls, nestled within … [Read more...]
Milwaukee Road Enthusiasts Tour Local Depots
When MRHA (Milwaukee Road Historical Association) selected Winona as the site for their annual convention, they had an expert with local routes available to help plan a tour of the depots of Fillmore and Houston County. President of MRHA Jeff Goutcher hails from Preston originally. A tour was planned of depots remaining along the route of the Milwaukee Road. On June 28, three … [Read more...]
Harmony’s Fourth of July Celebration: What’s New This Year?
Organizers have been busy planning Harmony’s annual 4th of July celebration. The festivities run throughout the week from Wednesday, July 3, through Saturday, July 6. “I am looking forward to my first jam packed 4th of July here in Harmony! So many fun activities happening this year, but I am most excited for the fireworks!” exclaimed Harmony Chamber of Commerce Executive … [Read more...]
Light Up The Sky
With the Fourth of July just days away, one of the highlights of Fourth of July celebrations is undoubtedly the fireworks displays. “We shall go wild with fireworks... And they will plunge into the sky and shatter the darkness.” -Natsuki Takaya The array of colors that illuminate the sky during firework displays are generated by various minerals. Strontium … [Read more...]