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Olsen’s concertina put smiles on many faces for decades

“Is everybody happy.” Larry Olsen yelled out that more than once when he played his concertina with his brother Leon, who was also working his magic on the musical instrument well known in polka circles. While Larry hails from the Lake Benton area, his brother resided in New Ulm. But the two brothers often got together to share their love for polka. Leon Olsen died on Oct. 22 after a brief battle with cancer at the age of 72. When it comes to polka music, Leon Olsen’s resume is extraordinary. He definitely leaves a musical legacy that rates among the great ones. He recorded ...

National Newspaper Week a time to reflect on the role journalism plays in our communities

This year marks the 85th celebration of National Newspaper Week. Local journalism is the heartbeat of informed communities. It brings stories to light that national outlets often overlook — stories about school board decisions, city council debates, neighborhood events, and local heroes. In a world increasingly shaped by global headlines and social media noise, reconnecting with local news is vital for civic engagement, accountability, and community resilience. To build a better future, you can support local journalism through subscriptions, donations, sharing stories, and ...

Use caution when approaching farm equipment on the road

Harvest season has arrived in southern Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Transportation is reminding motorists to look out for farm equipment on our rural roads and highways. MnDOT, in a Monday news release, reported there were 455 crashes involving farm equipment from 2022 to 2024, resulting in eight deaths and 180 injuries. “Fall harvest season brings more farm equipment to Minnesota highways as farmers move their crops from field to market. We’re all safer when we work together and watch out for one another. Motorists should always scan the road ahead and slow down as ...

A call for the return of civility and respect for fellow Americans

The state of politics in the U.S. took another ugly turn last week with the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a popular conservative activist. He was killed at one of his debate events held at an Utah college. He was allegedly killed by a young man who apparently immersed himself in the “dark corners of the internet,” according to Utah Gov. Spencer Cox. Unfortunately, it didn’t take long for the political finger pointing to heat up. Unfortunately, it’s this kind of political rhetoric that spurs threats and more potential violent acts. That is why we once again praise U.S. ...

Walz gives access to COVID-19 vaccine a boost

Earlier this week, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz issued an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Health to expand its efforts to safeguard vaccine access in the state in response to federal actions restricting vaccine availability. The order also directs the state epidemiologist to issue a standing order for the COVID-19 vaccine. The order was issued to allow for greater flexibility for health care providers and pharmacists to provide the vaccine. “Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine,” Walz said in his press release. “While ...

SMSU takes detour on homecoming parade

When the morning of Oct. 11 arrives in downtown Marshall, don’t expect to hear the music of marching bands or fire truck horns blaring. Don’t expect to see waves of candy flying toward children. You will have to travel down to the campus of Southwest Minnesota State University to take in this year’s homecoming parade. That’s because SMSU officials decided to move the parade to the campus instead of remaining with the traditional Main Street route. Why? Well, SMSU officials say it’s because of the ongoing street construction in downtown Marshall. However, that ...