The Mabel City Council met on May 14 at 6 p.m., with Mayor Adam Wilder calling the meeting to order. Council members present included Kirsten Wyffels, Tina Bakke, Valerie Arnold and Kelly Sand. Also in attendance were Kendra Spalla and Public Works Director Robert Mierau. The meeting agenda and the minutes from the April 9 council meeting were approved. Councilor Wyffels moved … [Read more...]
Local Hero Remembered Nearly 58 Years After Vietnam War Sacrifice
Nearly 58 years ago, a quiet moment on a rural Winneshiek County farm turned into one of heartbreak. Darlene (Olson) Wennes was at home east of Hesper, looking out the window, when she saw a military vehicle turn up the driveway. In that instant, she knew the war in Vietnam had come home. Her son, Robert Allen “Bob” Wennes, was a casualty of the Vietnam War. Born on February … [Read more...]
The 2025-2026 Edition of Visit Bluff County Magazine has Arrived!
Get ready to explore the scenic beauty and small-town charm of Historic Bluff Country with the release of the 2025-26 Visit Bluff Country magazine. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip, an overnight stay, or a weekend adventure, this guide is your must-have resource. Packed with stunning photography, travel inspiration, and fan favorites, the magazine is your companion … [Read more...]
Houston County Sets Date for Public Input on Commercial Solar Ordinance
At the May 6 Houston County Commission meeting, it was announced that a public hearing will be held on Thursday, May 22, at 6:40 p.m. in the county commissioners’ room at the historic courthouse. The hearing, part of the Planning Commission meeting, aims to gather input from county residents and businesses regarding the proposed commercial solar ordinance. MiEnergy Vice … [Read more...]
Veterans, Community Gather for Tradition and Tribute at 18th Annual Military Ball
Veterans representing all branches of the military from Southeast Minnesota gathered at the 18th Annual Military Ball on Saturday evening, April 26, at the Fest Building in Spring Grove. The event, steep in history and tradition, welcomed approximately 120 attendees, including veterans, their spouses, and members of the public. Col. Fuller’s speech focused on … [Read more...]
Caledonia Council Okays Planning and Goal-Setting Session
During its regular meeting on April 28, the Caledonia City Council approved a strategic planning and goal-setting session to be held in early summer. The strategic planning session will be facilitated by Phil Kern, administrator for the city of Delano, who brings extensive experience in municipal government and has led strategic planning initiatives for numerous cities. City … [Read more...]
Farm Family – Spring is in Full Bloom at Heartland Blooms-n-Berry Farm
A familiar phrase this time of year is “April showers bring May flowers,” and nowhere is that more true than at Heartland Blooms-n-Berry Farm. On Friday, May 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., the Schuldt family invites the public to visit their farm during the second annual Tulip Festival, held on their scenic farm conveniently located on Highway 76 between Caledonia and … [Read more...]
The King Family: A Five-Generation Sports Legacy
For possibly the first time in Minnesota high school boys basketball history, five cousins faced off against each other at the state Class AA boys basketball tournament this past March. Three of the cousins play for the Caledonia Warriors, while the other two cousins suited up for the Albany Huskies. The family showdown took place during the semifinals, where Albany defeated … [Read more...]
Spring Grove School Moves Forward with New Leadership
On Monday, April 21, the Spring Grove School Board unanimously approved a 0.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) contract with Gina Morken, the school’s new superintendent. The board unanimously approved hiring Morken at a special board meeting on April 14. The board also unanimously approved a 0.1 FTE contract with former superintendent Rachel Udstuen. Udstuen will be responsible … [Read more...]
Houston County Board Postpones Decision on MCIT Snowplow Settlement
At its April 22 meeting, the Houston County Board of Commissioners deferred action on a $215,171 settlement offer from the Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust (MCIT) related to a county owned snowplow that was totaled this past winter. The board is also considering the purchase of a 2026 tandem axle truck and plow box as a replacement but opted to wait for additional … [Read more...]