ST. PAUL, MN – The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has awarded $2.4 million to seven local partners to develop and implement agriculture-focused workforce training programs for the Growing Careers initiative. “Minnesota farms are facing new challenges because of policies coming out of the federal government,” said DEED Commissioner Matt … [Read more...]

Michael Mangan, director of Educational Success and Innovation, and Kelsey Harvey,  Minnesota Virtual Academy (MNVA) teacher, addressed the Houston School Board at their regular meeting November 6 about the possibility of offering course equivalencies at both MNVA and onsite at Houston. Course equivalencies would offer alternative classes that would satisfy graduation … [Read more...]

As of January 1, 2026, certain Medicare Advantage plans will no longer be available. If you are affected, you should have been notified through a letter sent by your insurance provider. Unfortunately, there will be less Medicare Advantage plans to pick from, along with higher premiums for some Minnesotans. You will not be losing Medicare; you have other options that will … [Read more...]

During the public comment portion of the November 3 Lanesboro City Council meeting, Jon Buggs noted that Tara Johnson recently celebrated 15 years as library director of the Lanesboro Public Library. Peter and Vicki Torkelson both spoke about the lack of proper procedure taken at the October council meeting to appoint the newest library board member. Vicki also noted her … [Read more...]

More than 60% of the Fillmore Central School District voters from Fountain, Harmony and Preston approved a proposed new referendum for general education revenue by $876 per pupil, subject to an annual increase at the rate of inflation.  The referendum will be first levied in 2025 for taxes payable in 2026 and applicable for 10 years unless otherwise revoked or reduced as … [Read more...]

Brownsville Mayor Jean Meyer called the regular meeting of the Brownsville City Council to order at 7 p.m. She led her colleagues and the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Councilors present included Barb Hurley, Pam Walhovd, Bill Fitzpatrick and David Prestby. City staff in attendance were, from City Maintenance - Dean Twite, City Clerk Steve Schuldt, and City … [Read more...]

Following up on details laid out at the September Fountain Council meeting, Rick Whitney presented further details at the November 4 meeting. Whitney is assisting Public Works Director John Hanson with maintenance of the system. He detailed all work completed and provided suggestions to keep the plant in good condition, aiming to extend its lifetime. Several areas were … [Read more...]

The Ostrander City Council held its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, November 4, at 6:30 p.m. Mayor Stephanie Start called the meeting to order. All members were present, including DJ Start, Dan Hellerud, Jimmie Dean and Lyn Massey-Mills. City Clerk Wendy Brincks was also in attendance. The council opened the evening by hearing from Peter Thayer, representing Ostrander … [Read more...]

At the November 4 commission meeting, Houston County Commissioners heard an overview of the USA Gravel National Championships. This event took place in Houston and Winona County during La Crescent’s 2025 Applefest celebration.  Larry Kirch, Community Development director for the city of La Crescent, announced that the championships will return in 2026, scheduled for the week … [Read more...]