Breaking News

Life

Campus Notes for Aug. 9

Schools

Southeast Technical College congratulates the Class of 2025 Southeast Technical College congratulates its students completing their AAS, diploma and certificates at the end of the Summer 2025 semester. Madilyn Clarke of Avoca, graduated magna cum laude with a associate of applied science in veterinary technician. Ashten DeJager of Slayton, graduated with a associate of applied science in diagnostic medical sonography. Jada Falconer of Marshall, graduated with a diploma in dental assisting. Clara Jennings of Marshall, graduated magna cum laude with a associate of applied science ...

When you’re feeling like Eeyore, try seeing God in the things around you

Faith

A devotion by a favorite author that I religiously read daily jarred me to an awakening earlier this week. It reminded me that often when we are searching for a glimpse of the heavenly kingdom breaking through to this world, we’re misleading ourselves. We aren’t actually seeking, but rather, we’ve just stopped seeing God in action. The writer floored me with this line: “In a thousand ways, (Jesus) was saying that God comes to us disguised as our life.” Holy smokes! … Talk about upending our faith lives! That simple statement reminded me that often while I am waiting ...

Watching four artists become one through their God-given gifts

Faith

The other night I was fortunate to sit in on a band jam as it practiced for an upcoming event at a local church. My friend, Todd, invited me as he knows I have a deep appreciation for those with musical gifts, talents that I, despite a burning desire, do not possess. The experience felt straight out of a movie biopic, as I got to sit in the small recording studio with the foursome, getting to pay witness as they worked through five original pieces Todd had penned. They even outfitted me with headphones and an iPad so that I could follow along as they riffed through the songs. … ...

SMSU named a 2025-2026 College of Distinction

Schools

In a higher education landscape often dominated by rankings and test scores, Southwest Minnesota State University has been recognized for what truly matters: a transformative undergraduate experience. For the 2025-2026 academic year, SMSU has been named a College of Distinction, a prestigious designation awarded to schools whose commitment to engaged, experiential education sets them apart. This recognition is based on Colleges of Distinction’s unique evaluation criteria known as the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. ...

Faith-inspired friendships develop in the most unexpected places when you’re open to it

Faith

The other day I stopped by our tax guy’s office, and not surprisingly a Bible study discussion broke out. This isn’t the opening line to a bad joke I’m workshopping for my comedic standup routine. It’s God’s honest truth, as the saying goes. It’s common that he and I mix in a healthy discussion regarding the gospel while we conduct business. It’s not the only reason that I’ve stuck with him for about 15 years, but it’s one of my favorite ones! Ironically, his faith principles were never a concern of mine when I first walked into his office a decade and a half ago. ...

Faith Briefs for July 18

Faith

St. Mary’s CCW looking for volunteers St Mary’s, Tracy CCW is looking for volunteers to help with their August Meals on Wheels deliveries. They are also in need of someone to coordinate volunteers. If you are interested, please contact Carol at 507-829-0135. St Mary’s Tracy CCW’s next meeting is 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, in the church basement.