Walking into the former shoe repair store at 106 Washington Street in downtown Decorah brings back a flood of memories, as it does to many boomers. If only the walls could talk, one has to wonder what stories they would tell. Now, a new chapter is being written. Kari L. Steinlage, owner of KL Design Co., revealed that the building, which dates back over 100 years, was home … [Read more...]
Root Family in Their Happy Place, Surrounded by Their Dream House on a Lovely Lot
Constructing your dream home is a thrilling journey filled with endless possibilities. However, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety throughout the process. The Root family embraced every twist and turn, trusting in the journey’s unfolding while remaining dedicated to their vision. By allowing the experience to flow naturally and with patience, they discovered … [Read more...]
Why Hiring a Painter is the Right Choice
Few home improvements can change the look of a room faster and more affordably than a painting makeover. In fact, homeowners often turn to paint before they make any other renovations. Home Light, a real estate technology company, says painting a home’s interior can net a return on investment as high as 107 percent. Although painting is a project that can be tackled by … [Read more...]
How to Boost Home Value Before Selling
People considering buying or selling a home are facing a unique market. The real estate market has been in flux for several years, and high interest rates have made it more expensive to borrow. The Mortgage Bankers Association is projecting that 30-year mortgage rates will level out to 6.5 percent for the forseeable future. That means that people who have been waiting for … [Read more...]
How to Establish a Peaceful Backyard Retreat
Backyards have undergone quite a transformation over the last decade-plus. The days when patios and decks were all a backyard living space had to offer are largely a thing of the past, as homeowners have realized just how valuable it can be to commit to a stunning backyard. The real estate experts at Zillow estimate that homes with backyard features such as outdoor … [Read more...]
How to Prepare Outdoor Spaces for Memorial Day Entertaining
Memorial Day weekend is a popular time to entertain. For many, the weekend marks the first outdoor entertaining opportunity of the year, which is certainly something to look forward to. As outdoor entertaining season begins, homeowners can take these steps to prepare their outdoor living spaces for the first big backyard get-together of the year. Break out the power … [Read more...]
Signs of Pest Infestation in a Home
As any seasoned party host knows, guests can sometimes overstay their welcome. But what about guests that were never welcome in the first place? Pests can wreak havoc on a home, contributing to significant and costly damage and potentially exposing residents, particularly pets, to harmful illnesses. Pest infestation can occur any time of year, but homeowners may be most … [Read more...]
Tips for the Gardening Beginner
Gardening is a popular hobby all over the world. Ruby Home Luxury Real Estate estimates there are 71.5 million gardening households in the United States alone. That translates to around 185.9 million people engaged in some form of gardening, which places the U.S. among other countries where gardening is wildly popular, including Australia and China. A greater number of … [Read more...]
Hooked on Fly Fishing!
Josh Norlien has fished since he was a kid, but he “really got hooked on fly fishing” quite recently. Now he wants to share his passion with his friends and neighbors; the Norlien family will be opening their new shop, Money Creek Outfitters, in Houston with a grand opening March 15 – the same day as Owl City Cycles will be opening for the spring season. Norlien wants to make … [Read more...]
E-bikes Soar in Popularity
In late summer and fall last year it quickly became obvious that e-bikes were becoming more and more popular. Rushford saw swarms of e-bikes parked on the city streets; riders were strolling the streets and enjoying meals in the local restaurants. While the Root River Trail often sees an increase of bikers during the peak fall season, this was different – lots of the bikes were … [Read more...]
Robert Allen Thompson
Robert Allen Thompson, 93, of Lanesboro, Minn., entered God’s Kingdom on January 6, 2025. He was born to Corday and Betsey Thompson on September 15, 1931. Robert was a loving, devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin, and friend. He is survived by his daughters Jill (Robert) Peterson, Jody (Joseph) Peterson, sister Phyliss Chiglo, seven grandchildren, and 16 … [Read more...]
Gary and Sandy Klinski Named 2024 Outstanding Conservationists
By Jean Meiners The Root River Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is proud to announce that Gary and Sandy Klinski have been awarded the 2024 Minnesota Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts Outstanding Conservationist. The MASWCD recognizes individuals for outstanding accomplishments with implementing conservation practices and improving Minnesota’s … [Read more...]
Steam Ahead at the 72nd Annual Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days
The Mabel Lions Club has been actively involved in the Hesper-Mabel Steam Days since the 1960s, when they served the best tasting chicken dinners in downtown Mabel during the town’s annual celebration. The 72nd annual celebration takes place from September 5-8 in Mabel, Minn. The ever-popular tractor parade kicks off the festivities on Thursday evening. Featuring Case … [Read more...]
Heavy Rain Leads To Area Flooding
Fillmore and Houston counties, which faced a drought last year, are now contending with excessive rainfall this summer. The change in weather resulted in flooding in both counties. Neither county has reported any injuries due to flooding. However, both counties are experiencing significant cleanup efforts and are replacing gravel on roadways due to runoff. Fillmore County … [Read more...]
Hidden Gems: Exploring the Enchanting Waterfalls of Bluff Country
Looking for a memorable day trip? Discover seven unique waterfalls in historic Bluff Country, each offering its own distinct charm, from a towering 200-foot cascade to an underground 60-foot wonder and a picturesque step waterfall. Prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty that awaits you. In Decorah, explore three captivating waterfalls. Malanaphy Falls, nestled within … [Read more...]