A new boutique has opened in Harmony, Minn., that has local residents excited about some new options for not only quality clothing, but so much more. Charming Farmer Boutique opened its doors at 44 Main Ave. N. on March 5, 2026. Although Charming Farmer Boutique is a new business, it may seem familiar, and the smiling faces of the owners may be well-known. Longtime … [Read more...]
Courtney Graves Teacher of the Year 2026
The plan was well thought out. The Fillmore County Journal van and sponsors vehicles parked behind Lanesboro Public School where there was quick and easy access to stealthfully carry in the prizes for Teacher of the Year undetected on Tuesday, April 28. As the fourth grade class streamed into the common area, the sleuths that they are scanned the clues in the room and … [Read more...]
2026 Volunteer of the Year Steve Strickler
In 2025, Houston’s Lisa Skifton was recognized as the Volunteer of the Year. This year, we recognize someone who could be described as a renaissance volunteer. He’s a man of many talents and knowledge in the realm of volunteerism. His name is Steve Strickler. There were 12 candidates nominated for this year’s Volunteer of the Year award, but we could only choose … [Read more...]
Supporting and Sharing Grief
Becky Stocker’s mom was healthy and active, living on the same farm as her daughter when she passed away rather unexpectedly. Becky had to care for her dad and was coping with the grief of losing her mom. She decided to attend a Mayo grief group in Rochester, but hated driving to Rochester for each meeting. Serendipitously, Becky learned from a friend about a grief support … [Read more...]
Zeke, the 1952 Pontiac
In 1952 the week after Joe Stevens was born, his grandfather and great uncle, Freeman Wilson, both ordered Pontiac Chieftain cars. Joe’s grandpa’s car was dark green while his great uncle’s was light green with a dark green roof. Wilson’s car would eventually be known as Zeke. Wilson was the only driver of the car until he passed in 1959; he only drove it to town. Then … [Read more...]
1986 Mustang GT 5.0, The Perfect Christmas Gift
When Jasmine Schuler was trying to think of a Christmas gift last year for her hard-to-buy-for fiancé Danny Marks, she straight out asked him. The only thing he mentioned was that he wanted his dad’s old 1986 Mustang GT so he could drive it himself some day. Danny’s dad, Matt Helgeson, had been known around Rushford for his red Mustang. At first Jasmine thought that would … [Read more...]
Caledonia Area Community Education Early Learning Programs
Caledonia Area Community Education believes in nurturing the potential of every child through play, creativity, and care. Our mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for children to grow, learn, and develop essential life skills, while giving parents peace of mind knowing their children are in good hands. Hand in Hand Preschool Program: … [Read more...]
Building Bright Futures at Fillmore Central
Each year, communities across the country celebrate the Week of the Young Child, an opportunity to recognize the importance of early learning and the educators, families, and programs that support our youngest learners. The early years of a child’s life are filled with curiosity, discovery, and incredible growth. At Fillmore Central, our early childhood educators are honored … [Read more...]
Eagle Bluff Nature Preschool
Eagle Bluff Nature Preschool gets the whole family outside! As a part of our preschool, families are invited to participate in outdoor, nature based activities year round. In the fall, we start the year with a family campfire to celebrate Fire Safety Month! This event helps to build our school community and gives children and families a hands on experience with the visit of … [Read more...]
Where Learning Meets Adventure: Semcac Head Start Partners with Eagle Bluff to Inspire Young Children
Every morning at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Lanesboro, children in the Semcac Head Start partnership classroom step into a learning experience like no other. As sunlight filters through the trees and leaves crunch beneath small boots, preschoolers ages three to five begin their day connected to the natural world around them. This partnership blends Semcac Head … [Read more...]