Stan Gudmundson’s recent commentary stumbled around the term “socialism,” and included a general vilification of government and cooperatives. His arguments were often nonsensical and outright falsehoods. I’ve dealt with cooperatives as farmer and rural citizen. I think most rural folks around here are pleased with their cooperative experiences. I believe Mr. Gudmundson owes … [Read more...]

The year 2019 will mark several scientific anniversaries including recognizing the 500th anniversary of Leonardo di Vinci’s death and the sesquicentennial (150th) anniversary of the periodic table! However, one of the most important scientific anniversaries will occur this summer in July marking the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. While some choose to ignore … [Read more...]

I am announcing my candidacy for the position of the vacant District 3 County Commissioner seat which was previously held by County Commissioner Gary Peterson. I am seeking this commissioner position because I believe my experience will be a valuable resource and asset to the Fillmore County Board. I have been a Spring Valley resident for the past 23+ years.  My wife, Kristin … [Read more...]

On the eve of Sunday, February 24, 2019, after I indulged in another snow-shoveling experience, I walked down the street in front of our house with my prized shovel on my shoulder.  I’m pretty sure that if Aunt Bee was peering out her picture window in Fountain, Minn., she would have mistaken my silhouette for that of a hobo (looking for shoveling relief). As I looked to my … [Read more...]

Why I honor the American flag By Jenna Tieskotter Why do you honor the American flag? This is a very good question. I believe that honoring the flag is very important. Everyone should ask themselves this question and really think about why they honor the flag. The flag is a symbol of many things. It’s a symbol of freedom, rights, and national pride. If you go to an event, … [Read more...]

The authorities have said, “No cause for concern,” so maybe it’s time people move on and leave this family alone! It should be no concern as to how many shots were fired or any gory details of this shooting! We don’t know what went on in the house that day or any days before, could mental or physical abuse have been involved and maybe “Karma” came to fruition! I’m just … [Read more...]

You may have heard the phrase “bad faith” or “bad faith arguments” shooting across the TV news lately (or at least what passes for news lately) and the phrase is a bit... high-minded. In everyday English it’s as simple as that one person who’s always trying to find some way to “get” you every time you have an argument, to the ridiculous point where you just dread every time you … [Read more...]

Belief in the socialist delusion is the most amazing faith that exists.  It persists despite failing always and everywhere. There is one common thread that runs through all of the claims proponents use to try convince us that it really can work.    It just hasn’t yet been implemented properly, they say.  In one form or another, we hear that over and over again.  The … [Read more...]

Why does my vote matter? (October 2018) By Kelsey Biel Being a dairy farmer, a high school student, an active member in many organizations, and being a contributing member of my community, I have realized the importance of other people’s voices and how they are portrayed. Everyone with the privilege to vote has a very essential voice to be heard. This is a fact. Whether if is … [Read more...]

During the last full week in January of 2019, the Fillmore County Journal Creative Director Jana Boyum attended the 152nd annual Minnesota Newspaper Association Convention and Trade Show. As part of a three day event, Jana was able to partake in educational sessions with speakers and network with newspaper industry peers during round table discussions.  Attending these types … [Read more...]

I would like to address common myths and misconceptions about Climate Change. Mythconception #1: “Climate Change used to be called ‘Global Warming’ but the Earth hasn’t been warming, so it’s called ‘Climate Change’ now.” Global warming is a term describing the overall impacts of atmospheric and oceanic temperatures as a result of greenhouse gases on Earth. As time progressed … [Read more...]

Our country and world has limitless problems, but amongst your complaints you take a swing at Christianity. Why? Do you want Christians to stand up stronger for all of the things that Jesus taught us, or tried to? Will you join us or will you pick and choose which issues you agree with and which ones you don’t? Ross Kramer Fountain, Minn. … [Read more...]

Someone was killed, shot “multiple times,” five miles from downtown Chatfield. Neither the Chatfield police nor the city government will say anything - except “no cause for concern.” Who did the shooting? Why was the man shot (multiple times)? Should I go out and buy a gun? Can I now let one rip if someone walks up my driveway after dark? If a person is gunned down on Main … [Read more...]