It deeply saddens me that our two senators, Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, voted NO to the “Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act (S.311).” This is a commonsense bill protecting children who have been born alive. The bill needed 60 votes but failed 53-44. All who voted NO were democrats. How is it possible that infanticide is a partisan issue? Should not both political … [Read more...]
The importance of organ donation…To the Editor,
Ah, spring – time for new growth and hope. Now, imagine being a plant that is struggling to stay alive and looking for hope when suddenly it rains and the fertilizer kicks in and the plant begins to grow and prosper. This is very much like being a patient in need of a transplant. They are struggling to stay alive and then suddenly, an organ, tissue or bone marrow donation … [Read more...]
Devil’s Advocate…Equivocating “socialism”
Have you ever experienced an argument where the other side “just didn’t get it”? Have you ever been on the side of the argument where you “just didn’t get it”? I believe many modern arguments can be more productive if opposing sides begin with, and maintain, an equal understanding of the definitions of key words in the discussion. Some words have multiple meanings that are … [Read more...]
Legalizing marijuana; a no-spin analysis
Legal or not, there is no doubt cannabis use is on the rise in Minnesota. Democrat politicians are making a concerted effort to legalize recreational pot; one local politician made it a central campaign promise, a position I ridiculed in print at the time and mistakenly believed would cause her defeat. Instead, Rochester area voters elected her by a landslide, leading me to … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project: An hour well spent
By Maddie Smith You pass the sound of bells, see wrapped presents under Christmas trees, and hear of people spending their holiday evenings serving food at a local food shelter. Most people tend to associate volunteering with the holiday season, but why limit committing good deeds to only a select time of the year? Organizations such as 4-H, Boy Scouts, and the American … [Read more...]
Thoughts about immigration
A woman who sought refuge in a church sanctuary stated simply “I deserve to be free.” She has lived illegally in this country for ten years and has two children who were born here. Her story has stayed with me. I love my freedom. I can say what I want, go where I want and do whatever I wish to do. I have given up nothing. I haven’t in any way “earned” my freedom. I was born in … [Read more...]
Make a difference in your own backyard
When asked what I love about southern Minnesota, one thing that always rises to the top is the drive that people have to help their neighbors. This was especially evident during the recent blizzard. Volunteers helped dig out vehicles, rescue stranded travelers and open their doors to provide shelter. At Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) we work to help our … [Read more...]
A plea for factual knowledge… To the Editor,
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...]
Journal Writing Project: Winter weather tips
By Anna Erickson Surviving rugged, harsh winters is something Minnesotans are known for. This year has brought some of the most frigid temperatures seen in decades. Resilient to the cold, many people who call the Midwest home trudge through the snow and risk dangerous conditions every day to reach their destinations. When driving in treacherous winter weather it is always best … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project: The danger that plagues America’s youth
There is an epidemic that is extremely concerning that is directly affecting the youth both in our local communities and in communities nationwide. This is the epidemic of vaping. This is a hot button issue that receives very little attention because it is such a new trend. It is a silent menace that will lead to the downfall of many adolescents and adults all throughout our … [Read more...]