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...]

By Leah Himlie Valentine’s Day was this past week, and everyone’s focus was on love. Would someone ask you out? Would someone give you chocolate? What if someone left an anonymous note declaring their undying love for you? These questions swirled around people’s heads, partly because of the media. In today’s world, love can be found in almost any form of media: books, movies, … [Read more...]

By Pailey Gordon Growing up, my mother told me to always be myself and to not let others change who I am or to let people change my morals. I was always circled around making sure I was always being my truest self. Especially in my teen years, I have run across a few people who weren’t true to themselves and tried to be someone they weren’t. They tried to make that impact on … [Read more...]

By Hannah Schneekcloth Tucked away in the heart of America there is an area called the driftless area. Covering the areas of southeast Minnesota, northern Iowa, southwestern Wisconsin, and northwestern Illinois, this area of the country is known for the river valleys, bluffs, winding roads, and the multitude of outdoor activities for every season, from boating and hiking in … [Read more...]

By Maddie Smith 1 (800) 273-8255... This is what Fillmore County dairy farmers read on the bottom of their milk checks each time they sell their freshest shipment of milk — the suicide hotline number. As striking as this fact seems, few people consider the significance of the mental health of farmers. Anxiety, depression, and suicide are serious concerns for farmers … [Read more...]

By Anna Erickson On a farm outside of Mabel, Minn., a team of Belgian draft horses rose to fame earlier this winter after a video of them went viral on the internet. Molly and Prince are a 13-year-old brother and sister who are very well accustomed to pulling heavy loads. In December 2018, truck driver Josie Swartzentruber’s semi truck became stuck when the slippery road … [Read more...]

By Leah Himlie Everyone has things of which they are scared. Some people are terrified of spiders, while others cannot bear the thought of elevators. It’s different for everyone. Despite everyone being different, most people are afraid of being rejected for who they really are. This is a fear many members of the LGBT+ community face every day. Coming out is one of the … [Read more...]

By Pailey Gordon Hegemonic masculinity has become a pressing problem that I have seen since I have entered high school. Every day it seems to be pushed upon the male population that certain things mean you are weak and certain things make you strong; even though some things do not necessarily mean you are weak, it means you are compassionate and caring. So, what even is … [Read more...]

By Katrina Bergey My mom frequently is reminding me of a simple quote by Abraham Lincoln. “People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel.” That saying is incredibly true and I try to regularly remind myself of this. I think most people would agree that in the end you remember the things that bring you … [Read more...]