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Local Columns

Two journalists with passion for news

I am a big fan of newspapers in general and local journalism in particular. My reading world took a blow when two friends announced their retirement in the same week. Fritz Busch is stepping down to a part-time role as staff writer at The Journal in New Ulm. Deb Moldaschel is leaving the Sleepy Eye Herald Dispatch where she has been helping out after a stint as editor. Fritz and Deb are my age and I’ve known them as far back as I can see. The age we are is made interesting by seeing how all of us boomers wrangle with this thing called “retirement.” Many of my friends are ...

Mall’s challenges have potential to become new opportunities

The Market Street Mall is up for sale again, and many people wonder what the future will hold for it. The Independent published a top of the front page story a week ago in which mall owner Dan Kallevig confirmed that the property is for sale. He wants to continue operating his Kal’s Motor Group business in the mall after the real estate is sold. Kallevig, from Wadena, bought the Market Street Mall in 2023 when it came up for sale after a bankruptcy process. The fact that he wants to stay is a real plus. He’s not simply walking away from it after three years. It has Kal’s and ...

Healthy shake and tea shop owner finds sense of community

We are reminded every day how big the nutrition and weight-loss industry is growing in the U.S. and around the world. The commercials are always on our TVs and our social media. According to AI Overview, the weight loss and nutrition business reached $94 billion in 2026. And of course, one ...

Country School Kids – Larry Van Moer – Railroad adventures

We have been learning about Larry Van Moer, the second of five children born to Marie (Marcotte) and Herbert Van Moer. Larry and his siblings grew up on the family farm north of Amiret. Larry shared adventures that related to the Chicago & Northwestern rail line that ran from Tracy through ...

On the Porch

LCHS has a book in its collection that is a great resource for finding out the origin and historical significance of place names in Minnesota. The book, “Minnesota Geographic Names” by Warren Upham was first published by the Minnesota Historical Society in 1920. A reprint edition was ...

Retirement planning in 2026: Looking beyond higher contribution limits

In 2026, higher retirement contribution limits are creating new opportunities for long-term savings — including increases to $24,500 for 401(k)s and $7,500 for IRAs1. For many investors, that raises an important question: how can you make the most of these expanded limits? 

While ...