This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. On November 19, 2024, the SEMAC Board of Directors awarded $378,430 in arts programming grants to nonprofit organizations and schools throughout Southeastern Minnesota. This includes one … [Read more...]
From Sawmill Survival to Hardwood Success: Root River Hardwoods’ 46-Year Journey
By Zech Sindt Root River Hardwoods has been a cornerstone of Preston, Minn., for over 45 years, a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders. The company’s story began in 1979 when the Webster Lumber Company sawmill was on the verge of shutting down. Dick Bahl, a man who “did this his whole life, logging and sawmill,” wasn’t ready to let it close. … [Read more...]
Presenting Country Financial in Rushford
Danielle Luhmann wants to take care of people and make sure they are protected; working as an insurance agent for Country Financial feels like a perfect fit for her. She has been working for the company for 10 months. Danielle has a lot of previous customer service experience. In the past she has worked for the Dakota Post Office, the Kwik Trip in Rushford, and in Good Shepherd … [Read more...]
New Gateway Cafe Owners Bring Home Cooking and Community Spirit to Wykoff
For more than half a century, the Gateway Cafe has been a fixture in Wykoff — a place where neighbors gather, stories are shared, and regulars slide into their usual seats. But under the cafe’s new owners, Jennie Moreland and Mary Aakre, this small-town treasure is in the middle of a delicious revival. With a mix of cherished traditions and fresh energy, the Gateway blends … [Read more...]
The Sawmill Inn Has New Owners
Daisy and Ryan Ruberg purchased The Sawmill Inn located at 809 East Cedar Street in Houston, Minn., on June 25, 2024. They had been looking for a more flexible work option for Daisy after their son Rushton was born in February. Daisy had previously worked as a tax consultant in the corporate office of Ashley Furniture. The motel, which was originally built in 2005 by John and … [Read more...]
A Place for Dog Lovers and Craft Beer Drinkers
Bust out of your gate and make tracks to The Dog Paddle in Fountain, Minn., for a unique experience with your furry friends! Kim Radke, owner of The Dog Paddle, has created a space where a person can chill, and so can their pet. Whether you would like to enjoy a cool drink with friends and their dogs, or grab a bite to eat, The Dog Paddle has something for you. The idea … [Read more...]
Harrington Enterprises: A Quarter-Century of Growth and Community Commitment
By Zech Sindt Harrington Enterprises is celebrating a milestone this year; 25 years of serving the community and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the mowing and equipment industry. Owners Chad and Camri Harrington, along with their son Carter, have built a business that exemplifies the values of hard work, family, and customer dedication. Their journey … [Read more...]
Erin’s Adventure on the Avenue: Making a Dream Come True
At just six years old, a bright-eyed little girl named Erin stepped into the enchanting world of Dacia’s on Main in Harmony, Minn., for a haircut. The moment she crossed the threshold, she was captivated by the vibrant colors and the inviting atmosphere that surrounded her. For as long as she could remember, Erin had dreamed of styling hair, and Dacia’s became a source of … [Read more...]
2024 Business Persons of the Year Ninnemans Receive Award of Excellence From Journal Readers
As a newspaper, we have an opportunity to bring people together for a common good. To inspire and foster positive news presented by our readers that lifts people up in the communities we serve. Starting in 2020, the staff at the Fillmore County Journal coordinated the first-ever recognition for the Business Person of the Year. The newspaper publishes a form to fill out … [Read more...]
What people had to say about their nominees for the 2024 Business Person of the Year…
Bill Burke Chatfield Body Shop Chatfield, MN Reason for nomination: Excellent service, does extra service at NO extra charge. Describe the impact of the above: He has made it so much easier by picking my car up, service, bring it back, no extra charge. What do you think motivates the nominee? I feel it is just the kind of person he is. He wants to help where he … [Read more...]