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Community Voices

Community faces important decision on future of our schools

As autumn settles in, the excitement across Marshall Public Schools is unmistakable. Playoff season is here, and the hallways, fields and performance spaces are filled with the energy of students striving to do their best — and a community that shows up to cheer them on. Recently, our marching band placed seventh at state competition — a testament to their dedication and teamwork. Volleyball is enjoying a remarkable season, and our girls tennis team made history by advancing to the semifinals for the first time. Tiger football continues to impress, carrying the pride of Marshall ...

Nothing more important than our kids

Voters in the Marshall School District have an important decision to make when they go to the polls on Nov. 4. We’ll decide whether or not to approve the proposed levy referendum put forth by school officials. It’s considered necessary to avoid cuts in teachers, elective classes and activities. I’ve heard from some who plan to vote yes and others who plan to vote no. It’s important to consider both the concerns that have been raised and the needs of our students. Among the concerns I’ve heard are that the levy will be indexed for inflation, that we funded a new grade ...

Looking back at spooky times

It’s a scary time of year. That peculiar holiday called Halloween is upon us, the only occasion wherein we encourage our children to take candy from strangers — after the kiddos issue a vague threat to the homeowner. Trick-or-treating is a grand tradition that dates back centuries. I know this because I participated in trick-or-treating when I was a youngster. There were no commercially produced Halloween costumes back then. At least there weren’t for my seven siblings and me. Kitting out that many kids would have meant that my parents would have lost money in the ...

Nothing like harvest time

We are in the middle of harvest. Taking time to write this and drink coffee is a great luxury. There is a grease gun calling my name right now. “Sheesh, I’ll be right out. Can’t a guy have a break?” The answer to that is no, unless it’s raining or you’re broke down. I did take a day to attend a funeral and a wedding. None of the participants were farmers. So, their lack of timing can be forgiven. There are about a half million farmers in the United States who grow corn. Many of them are in the fields now, bringing the crop in. Add spouses in support roles, elevator ...

Homecoming visit reflects changes in SMSU campus life

Last week I decided to do something extra to celebrate the Southwest Minnesota State University homecoming. I went out to campus on Friday to just walk around and see a typical class day. I went to the Natural History Museum, the greenhouse, the alumni heritage gallery and the campus store. I enjoyed a large sized cup of coffee. I attended SMSU as an undergraduate from 1986 to 1990, earning English and history majors with a Spanish minor. I later completed graduate school, a master’s of business administration, from 2004 to 2007. I wore my alumni sweatshirt when I visited campus ...

‘Purple for a purpose: Standing against domestic violence’

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month—a time to honor survivors, remember the lives lost, and stand together to break the cycle of abuse. Domestic violence is not an isolated issue; it touches individuals, families, and entire communities. This month calls us to act with urgency: to raise awareness, believe survivors, and work toward a future where safety and healing are possible for all. The impacts of domestic violence extend far beyond the home. Children who witness abuse carry invisible scars, families are torn apart, and communities feel the strain in schools, workplaces, ...