Autism has been a heavy subject in the media regularly for the past 5-10 years. Many people have their theories as to how autism is caused and why it has become more prevalent in the United States. Of course, as controversial as it appears to be, when there’s a debate science isn’t too far behind giving us the facts. According to an article published in the journal Current … [Read more...]

To the Editor, As the August Primaries draw near, I am reminded that we are in an election year. Given that the primary is on the 14th, I decided that it’s time to see if any of the issues that were present in 2016 have been fixed. After all, if all, or at least the biggest concerns, have been fixed, then there is no reason to change leadership. However, my biggest concern … [Read more...]

To the Editor, In Carla’s recent mailings to Fillmore County residents, she makes claims based on half truths.  Jim Hagedorn was born in Southern Minnesota.  He did finish high school in the D.C. area because his dad, a U.S. Congressman from Minnesota, moved the family to D.C.  Jim spent summers here during HS.  Since beginning to run for Congress, Jim has become well known … [Read more...]

Jeff Coleman I found Herb Panko’s article in the July 16 issue to be a head-scratcher for many reasons. Panko states that we live “in the midst of two alarming trends.” He names these as uncivilized discourse in politics, taken to an extreme in Trump, and second, that the Christian Right supports Trump. His article is half ripping Trump and half ripping the Christian Right, … [Read more...]

It’s been a wild year for my garden, that’s for sure. After installing a new garden box, the plants have taken off no doubt juiced by the brand new benefits of fresh soil and fertilizer. Sadly, the crazy amount of growth isn’t always good for everyone, as some of our lettuce has gotten so prosperous that it’s too big and essentially useless. The leaves are so bitter the rabbits … [Read more...]

Last quarter, the U.S. economy grew at 4.1%. Many of the “experts” insisted 4% growth could never be achieved again. • CNN on 10/11/16; “ Trump promises 4% growth. Economists say no way.” • Wall Street Journal 1/26/17; “Donald Trump’s 4% growth target is easier said than done.” • L A Times 5/19/17; “ If Trump thinks he can get more than 3% economic growth, he’s … [Read more...]

I keep hearing chatter about raising the minimum wage from $9.65 per hour to $15.00 per hour.  That’s greater than a 55% increase! Now, I do believe an increase in minimum wage is warranted, but maybe keeping pace with the rate of inflation makes a little more sense.  Maybe a 2.5% to 4% increase in the minimum wage each year would be more sensible. I remember more than 25 … [Read more...]

By Aaron Swartzentruber Greenleafton, MN “Knowing that a man is not justified by works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.” (Galatians 2:16) The cults and religions of the world all … [Read more...]

When I was in elementary and middle school, I felt I thrived in my independence from others and would usually study and practice writing, geography, and math by myself or with my family (whom I consider an extension of myself). Any time there was an exam or quiz, I was in strict competition to have the highest grade every time. I was in chess club until I could be in cross … [Read more...]

Back in 1883, Teddy Roosevelt wrote an essay on what it takes to be a true American citizen. He did not mince words. “The people who say that they have not time to attend to politics are simply saying that they are unfit to live in a free community,” he wrote. “Their place is under a despotism.” He went on: “The first duty of an American citizen, then, is that he shall work in … [Read more...]