Yes, training can help many dogs become less fearful of loud noises like fireworks, but it takes patience and consistency. The most effective approach is desensitization and counterconditioning. This involves playing recordings of fireworks at a very low volume while rewarding your dog with treats, praise, or play. As your dog becomes comfortable, you can gradually increase … [Read more...]
How do I help people I love make better choices?
Usually, when we want to share what has helped us, the motivation is love. We found something that made a difference in our lives, and we want the people we care about to benefit too. The challenge is, good intentions and good experiences aren’t always the same thing. What feels like caring guidance to one person can feel like pressure to another. There’s a difference … [Read more...]
Are there any etiquette guidelines for a funeral, wake or visitation?
Yes, and it really begins with being mindful of the family that has lost a loved one. Here are three quick tips to share. One: Attend. Funerals are for the living, and your presence is more important than you know. Whether it’s a co-worker, a friend, or a relative make sure you attend one of the funeral events. It will mean a great deal to living. Two: Be on time. Try … [Read more...]
Is the vehicle pricing ever going back to “normal”?
Honestly, I don’t think we’ll ever see prices go back to the way they were before COVID. Between the chip shortage in ‘21 and ‘22 and the overall lack of inventory, prices have stayed pretty high across the board. Unless there’s a major market crash or a huge surge of used cars suddenly hitting the market, I don’t see them dropping much. Plus, since new cars are so … [Read more...]
Why Mini-Split Indoor Head Cleaning Matters
Mini-split systems are known for their efficiency and comfort, but many homeowners overlook an important maintenance item—the indoor head. While cleaning the washable filters monthly is important, dirt, dust, pet dander, and even mold can build up on the blower wheel, evaporator coil, and drain pan inside the unit. Over time, this buildup restricts airflow, reduces … [Read more...]
Is it better to buy or rent water treatment equipment?
Homeowners often ask whether they should purchase or rent water treatment equipment. The answer depends on budget, maintenance preferences, and long-term goals. When you purchase equipment, you own it outright but are responsible for maintenance, repairs, and eventual replacement. Rental programs, on the other hand, typically include service, maintenance, and system repairs … [Read more...]
Does your business need help with a website?
Today, your website is often the first impression customers have of your business. If your site is outdated, difficult to use on mobile devices, or hard to update, it could be costing you customers. The Fillmore County Journal launched SMG Web Design in 2009, currently serving more than 150 clients in the Midwest. We are locally owned and work with businesses throughout the … [Read more...]
Richard L. Reinhart
Richard L. Reinhart, age 74, of Brownsville, Minnesota, died on June 28, 2026. To honor Richard’s wishes, there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Gundersen Medical Foundation, Medical Research Fund for cancer research. McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia, is assisting the family. … [Read more...]
Charles “Chuck” Casterton
Charles “Chuck” Casterton, age 69, of Decorah, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at his home in Decorah. A private family ceremony and burial will be held. All are welcome to a Celebration of Life to honor Chuck at the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds Community Building on Monday, June 29, 2026, from 4-7 p.m. Charles Bernard Casterton was born on … [Read more...]
Fillmore and Houston County Police Reports
Caledonia Police Department Tiffany Breann Amaro, 29, Caledonia, MN; 4/6/2026, Driving After Suspension, Fine $200, Total Fees $275. Dean Martin Hoven, 63, Decorah, IA; 4/21/2026, Operate Motor Vehicle With Expired Registration, Fine $30, Total Fees $105. Aristides Gonzalez Monzon, 44, Caledonia, MN; 5/14/2026, Driving Without a Valid License for Vehicle Class or Type, Fine … [Read more...]