By Charles Seha Fountain, MN A couple months ago, I noticed numbers painted on the many large oak trees in the park on the high school grounds above the junction of Union Street and Highway 52. I discovered the numbers represent an inventory of the existing trees on the site to determine how many will be destroyed by the future swimming pool project. In most of the country, … [Read more...]
Once again! The Old Soldier speaks
By Ron Scheevel Preston, MN With this being an election year for some of our Representatives and Senators, I would like to comment on some issues that are in my mind, important to the survival of this Republic. First, the National debt, whose number now is in excess of $20 trillion and growing. There is still not much desire in Washingotn to curb spending. I do not think … [Read more...]
Early literacy promotes lifelong success
Summer is here which means families are finally able to enjoy the outdoors after a long winter. As campfires burn out and kids get ready for bed, many parents will pull out a book and read a bedtime story. This is important because studies consistently show that reading at a young age drastically improves a child’s educational trajectory. According to Minnesota Compass, the … [Read more...]
Carrying the banner
By Eric Leitzen Hokah, MN Let’s face it: 24-hour “news” isn’t news. It hasn’t been news for a while now. When you turn on the local stuff, or when you crack open a local paper, you’ll see what you’d actually describe as news: the most important stuff that’s happening that affects you. The stuff running 24/7? That’s entertainment: celebrities, cruise ships, missing planes, … [Read more...]
One Moment, Please… National Postal Worker Day
On Sunday, July 1, 2018, your local United States Postal Service locations will be closed, just like any other Sunday. And, this day has been recognized as National Postal Worker Day. I think it is important to recognize our local postal workers for a variety of reasons. For most people in our area, there are three places they visit on a regular basis: the grocery store, … [Read more...]
Of Karst and Catalpa
Eric Luoma Fountain, MN We have had many customers ask why we named our business “Karst,” to which we answer by explaining the geological term. But it’s more than a term... it’s the land upon which we live and our best hope for a vibrant, sustainable future. The well-attended, passionate and civil engagement in Mabel of those concerned about our Karst topography, environment … [Read more...]
Hey leadership! Let Congress work
There aren’t many people who would argue that Congress is working well these days. It’s been 24 years since it passed a comprehensive budget without resorting to omnibus bills. It can’t pass health-care legislation. Its members talk about the desperate need for a new infrastructure bill, but can’t even get one drafted. It’s unable to produce immigration reform. It’s facing a … [Read more...]
Devil’s Advocate…Atheism
In light of the article written last month about atheism, it is clear there is a severe misunderstanding among some county residents about others. I was encouraged to help set the record straight as best I can on what atheism is and who atheists are. Atheists, or non-theists, are people who do not assert the existence of God or any gods. That’s it. Note the lack of any other … [Read more...]
Deficits
Over the past couple of weeks, I came across a few interesting news items In one newspaper article a child psychologist wrote of her concerns about children who suffer from anxiety and depression. Certainly, worthy concerns and she provided good advice. Last week I came across another article that also impacts young children. Was there anything that had been invented that … [Read more...]
Letter about Catalpa LLC Environmental Impact Study…
To the Editor, As a dairy farmer with an approved feedlot permit here in Section 24 Canton TWS, Fillmore County and living only 2.5 miles from the proposed 1,900 animal unit hog facility, I believe Caltalpa LLC, the group building this facility, should be required to conduct an EIS (Environmental Impact Study) before they are allowed to build. With our karst geology, … [Read more...]