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...]
Heavy Rain Leads To Area Flooding
Fillmore and Houston counties, which faced a drought last year, are now contending with excessive rainfall this summer. The change in weather resulted in flooding in both counties. Neither county has reported any injuries due to flooding. However, both counties are experiencing significant cleanup efforts and are replacing gravel on roadways due to runoff. Fillmore County … [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...]
Houston County Human Resources Director Tess Kruger Announces Retirement
After the regularly scheduled Houston County Commission meeting on July 2, Human Resources Director Tess Kruger shared a copy of a letter she gave to the commissioners on Monday, July 1, announcing her retirement effective September 6. In her official letter, Kruger proudly stated, “I have spent 36 years in public service, and it has been a pleasure to have served the … [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...]
30-Day No Wake Zone in Place Along the Mississippi River
At its June 25 commission meeting, Houston County Commissioners authorized a temporary 30-day emergency no wake zone on the Mississippi River within the county. Sheriff Brian Swedberg explained that he spoke with County Attorney Samuel Jandt, and they proposed extending the no wake zone to cover the entire Mississippi within Houston County during flood conditions. It will be … [Read more...]
Caledonia Mayor Schroeder Not Seeking Re-election
Mayor DeWayne (Tank) Schroeder confirmed that he is not seeking re-election at the June 24, 2024, regularly scheduled meeting of the Caledonia City Council. As discussed in a prior council meeting, Councilmember Amanda Ninneman has confirmed her candidacy for re-election, while Councilmember Robert (Bob) Klug has yet to announce his decision regarding re-election. Mayor … [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...]
MnDOT Gathers Feedback on Caledonia Roundabout
MnDOT (Minnesota Department of Transportation) District 6 staff held a public meeting on Thursday, June 20, 2024, to share information on the proposed Hwy. 44/76/North Kingston St. roundabout and gather feedback from Caledonia community members. Approximately 40 interested residents and business owners attended the meeting at the Caledonia city auditorium. After a short … [Read more...]
Houston County Auditor/Treasurer Ensures Transparency in Upcoming State Primary Election
On Tuesday, June 18, the Houston County commissioners authorized Interim Auditor Treasurer Polly Heberlein to create an Absentee Ballot Board and UOCAVA (Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act) Ballot Board for the upcoming State Primary Election on August 13, 2024. The following individuals were appointed to the absentee ballot board: Eliana Babinski, Mark … [Read more...]