A common family activity in Bluff Country this time of year is to take a drive along the scenic byways that meander through the countryside, along the majestic bluffs and the rivers and streams, and through historic downtowns. Travelers will be in awe of the vibrant fall color palette and the overlooks where you can see for miles and miles. Don’t forget to stop and enjoy … [Read more...]
2023 Wildcat Landing camping fees increase
Houston County Commissioners approved increasing the 2023 site fees at Wildcat Landing at the October 4, Commission meeting. Seasonal site fees increased by $100.00 from $1,500.00 to $1,600.00 per season; primitive (tent) sites increased by $5.00 per night from $20.00 to $25.00; electric sites increased by $10.00 per night from $40.00 to $50.00; monthly sites increased by … [Read more...]
Spring Grove Public Schools welcomes new science teacher
Spring Grove Public Schools welcomes new science teacher Bethany Mestelle to the Lions’ pride. Mestelle hails from Minocqua, Wis., where she graduated from Lakeland Union High School (LUHS), home of the Thunderbirds, in 2017. Her voice raised an octave as she shared that her plans as a teenager were not to follow in her parents’ footsteps as a teacher. Come to find out, her … [Read more...]
Houston County owned buildings on the agenda
Chairman Greg Myhre called the September 27, Houston County Commission meeting to order at 9 a.m., leading commissioners and the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioners in attendance include Chairman Myhre, Teresa Walter, Robert (Bob) Burns, Eric Johnson, and Dewey Severson. Commissioners unanimously approved the meeting’s agenda, the minutes from the September … [Read more...]
Caledonia orders new squad car
The Caledonia City Council held a public hearing at the council’s regularly scheduled meeting on September 26, regarding a request from business owner Joe Hayes for a setback variance at 505 Old Highway Drive. According to the permit application, Hayes plans to build a 40’ x 50’ timber frame with steel siding and roof addition to the east side of the existing commercial … [Read more...]
Mainspring Founder receives Fellowship
The founder and volunteer director of Caledonia’s art collaborative, Mainspring, Melissa Wray received word in August that she was selected for a two-year Rural Regenerator Fellowship through Springboard for the Arts. The Minnesota non-profit organization has a branch in Saint Paul and one in Fergus Falls. Fergus Falls oversees the Fellowship. According to the organization’s … [Read more...]
Celebrate fall in Spring Grove and Lanesboro
The Bluff Country’s vibrant fall palette of warm colors will be at its peak the second week of October. Plan a trip to Spring Grove’s annual fall celebration, Uffda Fest, on October 7 and 8 in Minnesota’s first Norwegian settlement and celebrate fall. The Giants of the Earth Heritage Center is hosting a Norsk Talent Show, late Friday afternoon and heritage classes throughout … [Read more...]
Houston County 6th graders explore their environment
The Root River Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) sponsored the 6th Grade Environmental Day on Tuesday, September 20 at Winnebago Springs. The popular event founded by Spring Grove teacher Terry Nelson in 1997 has been held annually except in 2020 due to the pandemic. District Manager David Walter proudly shared, “This is the 25th anniversary.” The event has … [Read more...]
Fall into Lanesboro
The annual Fall into Lanesboro event takes place on Saturday, October 1, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. at various locations throughout picturesque Lanesboro. Some activities are free, and others cost. Event organizers describe the event as a “Family-friendly, fun-filled fall event to enjoy Lanesboro with a scavenger hunt, wagon ride, pumpkin & cookie decorating, and so much … [Read more...]
Julie Amundson’s last city council meeting
The Spring Grove City Council met Tuesday, September 20, at 6:07 p.m. following the Planning and Zoning public hearing at Spring Grove Communications Building. Acting Mayor Karen Folstad led the Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Council members in attendance were Travis Torgerson, Chad Rohland, and Karen Folstad. Absent were Mayor Scott Solberg and Trent … [Read more...]