What happened? The GOP-controlled Senate passed a bill by voice-call in the late hours of December 19 with measures that would have provided enough funding for the government to continue functioning into the early part of February. This bill did not have money allocated for a border wall that President Trump had repeatedly stated Mexico would pay for.  It was expected this … [Read more...]

Bush 41. Clinton 42. Bush 43. Obama 44. Trump 45. Hillary Clinton. Senator Charles Schumer. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Household names in American politics, and all with something in common. Every one of them has written and spoken publicly about securing our southern border to stem the flow of illegal drugs, terrorists, contraband, and foreign criminals. All have advocated … [Read more...]

Do you remember how excited you were when you heard about the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)?  Yeah, me neither.  But, HIPAA has impacted all of us in many ways we may not even realize. Companies had to become compliant with the HIPAA Security Rule by April 21, 2005.  That was nearly 14 years ago.  The whole reason HIPAA was introduced related … [Read more...]

By Ken Sawle Rushford, MN When my daughters were young, and found themselves in a situation that seemed overwhelming, I would say, “Take a deep breath and a few steps back from yourself.” It seems like vague or simplistic advice, but using a few moments to calm yourself often helps to put things in a warmer light. I’d like to be able to say the same thing to the nation as … [Read more...]

January 19, 2019, is approaching fast. Unfortunately, we are just days away from the iconic Branding Iron of Preston, Minn., closing its doors. KAAL6 News recently broadcast a feature highlighting the dilemma of Baby Boomers wanting to retire from owning their business, but not able to do so because they can’t find a buyer. Our Preston Area Chamber of Commerce/Preston Area … [Read more...]

Americans like “new beginnings”!  I hung this year’s calendar on the wall and admired the picture for this month of two cardinals in the snow.  (January 1, 2019 ) We pause to assess where we are,  who we are and what our goals will be in the coming year.  We are grateful to the holidays which renewed the spirit of hope.  The power, the engine that has provided the impetus to … [Read more...]

By Flip Huggenvik Big Spring, MN I am compelled to respond to the commentaries written by Judy Ellestad Sayed and Aaron Schwartzentruber on interfaith dialog conversation...compromises between the Christian faith and the Muslim faith. “Can’t we all just get along?” Ha! Members of both faiths have strong convictions and some, like Judy, believe we can listen to the other … [Read more...]