To the Editor, I’ve heard people say that they are glad to see 2020 over and are looking forward to 2021 with hope that the suffering is over. Some people want to drain the political swamp in order to fix all of the problems. The problem isn’t politics but rather the heart. Politicians are merely a reflection of society. For example in Jonah chapter 3, Jonah preached to … [Read more...]
2020-The worst year ever?
By Pastor Stuart Weist First Baptist Church of Preston As we look toward 2021, many regard 2020 as the worst year ever. Pandemics, wild fires, economic collapse, closing of schools, and the disruption of daily routines definitely place 2020 in the category of “not what I expected.” However it should place it in the category of “just what I needed.” As a pastor, I have … [Read more...]
Fillmore County authorizes county relief funding program for local businesses and nonprofits
PRESTON, MN - Fillmore County businesses affected by COVID-19 are encouraged to apply for Business Relief Grants of up to $10,000 beginning January 6. The Fillmore County Commissioners voted unanimously on Tuesday, January 5, to approve $415,000 in relief funding to Fillmore County businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds were made available to Fillmore County by … [Read more...]
Red Cross teams with NFL to urge blood and plasma donation during National Blood Donor Month
Give blood now and earn a chance to win a trip to Super Bowl LVI The American Red Cross and the National Football League are teaming up this January, during National Blood Donor Month, to urge individuals – especially those who have recovered from COVID-19 – to give blood and to help tackle the national convalescent plasma shortage. Right now, more donors are needed to help … [Read more...]
Commonweal Theatre to produce special winter cabaret production
LANESBORO, MN — Following a season of change and overcoming challenges in the face of COVID-19 precautions in 2020, the Commonweal Theatre in historic Lanesboro is pleased to announce a very special virtual production for the winter of 2021 entitled “Stela’s Clear Blue Morning.” After a year of turbulence and fatigue, the lights are back on at the Commonweal beginning January … [Read more...]
Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council seeks farmers for input survey
Growers who complete survey eligible for $500 gift card MANKATO, MN – As farmers make their preparations for the 2021 growing season, the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council is encouraging the state’s nearly 28,000 soybean growers to participate in a survey to help farmer-leaders and researchers better address the diverse production challenges facing growers … [Read more...]
Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation awards $180,000 in Early Care and Education Wrap Around Grants
OWATONNA, MN, January 7, 2021 – Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), recently approved 18 grants through its Early Care and Education Wrap Around Grant program totaling $180,000. This special grant program helps fund early care and education wrap around services for children birth to age eight from … [Read more...]
Legacy Amendment provides $361,000+ in small grants to support history projects
The Minnesota Historical Society is pleased to announce the newest recipients of 42 Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Small Grants ($10,000 and less), totaling $361,234 in 29 counties. Small grants are awarded quarterly to help nonprofits, educational organizations, government units and federally recognized tribes to preserve and share Minnesota history. This cycle of … [Read more...]
USDA accepting applications to help low-income individuals and families buy or repair homes
USDA Rural Development is accepting applications for very low- and low-income individuals and families seeking to purchase or repair a home in a rural area. The Direct Home Loan program offers financing to qualified very-low and low-income applicants that are unable to qualify for traditional financing. No down payment is required, and the interest rate could be as low as 1% … [Read more...]
Tax break available for beginning farmers
Tax credit available for land, equipment expenses to start farming ST. PAUL, MN – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) Rural Finance Authority is now accepting applications for a tax credit for the sale or lease of land, equipment, machinery, and livestock in Minnesota by beginning farmers. To qualify, the applicant must be a Minnesota resident with the desire to … [Read more...]