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...]
Caledonia School Board Says Goodbye to Member Tim Gunn
Caledonia Area Public School board members met Tuesday, January 21 at Caledonia Elementary School in room #162. Board member Mike Peterson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m., led with the Pledge of Allegiance, then conducted roll call. Board members present included Derek Adamson, Julie Augedahl, Tim Gunn, Leigh King, Melissa Marschall and Spencer Yohe. School district … [Read more...]
Mabel-Canton School Board Elects Officers
On January 21, 2025, during the regularly scheduled board meeting, Mabel-Canton Superintendent Gary Kuphal led the newly elected and re-elected board members in the Oath of Office, followed by the election of officers. The district’s new officers are: Chairman Chris Miller, Vice Chair Dustin Tollefsrud, Clerk Jason Marquardt, and Treasurer Diane Wilder. The meeting was … [Read more...]
Houston County Mobile Dentistry Pilot Program Sees Success
On January 21, Houston County Public Health employees John Pugleasa, Jordan Knoke, Mary Zaffke and Brianna Ceaser, along with Rich DeMarco, a representative from Delta Dental, appeared before the Houston County Board of Commissioners to update commissioners on the county’s mobile dentistry pilot program. Chairman Eric Johnson called the meeting to order at 9 a.m. The revised … [Read more...]