When the Legislature passed the 2023 public safety bill, I — along many of my colleagues — stood on the Senate floor and warned what would happen. That bill reduced sentences for violent criminals and opened the door to early release for people convicted of serious and violent crimes. It passed by one vote and was supported by every Democrat, including those who represent our area.
Now we are witnessing the very real consequences.

As I enter my tenth year at Triton schools and my twenty-first year in education, I h ave been reflecting on the differences and similarities during my time as an educator. Each school year is a different experience with unique challenges, opportunities, and celebrations.

Throughout the spring and summer, I have often used my column to rant about the issues I see with changing baseball, a game that has been played for hundreds of years.
While I stand by all my comments about making too many changes to the sport, this past weekend has taught me there is room for an alternative.

It was another successful fundraiser at Uncle Mony’s in Hayfield Saturday night, as Mary’s Angels raised $5,129 for Alzheimer’s research.
The total included money raised from a silent auction, bake sale, and food, said Barry Thompson of Owatonna.

In the heart of Hayfield, a young woman named Macy Jo Holtan made a lasting impression with her kindness, ambition and radiant spirit. 
Though her life was cut short in 2021, the joy she brought to family, friends and her community continues to inspire a celebration in her honor: the Macy Jo Invitational, a beloved golf tournament that reflects her love of the game and the people around her.

The filing period for the special Kasson-Mantorville School Board election ends next week.
But as of Tuesday afternoon, no candidates had filed for office, according to Superintendent Beth Giese.
This past winter, just months after being re-elected, Amy Olson resigned from her position, which prompted an opening.

One month into his new role as Byron Public Schools superintendent, Nate Walbruch says he is working to connect with district residents and their values and help to shape the schools to meet those values.

At a short special meeting Monday night, Triton’s school board approved a Capital Project Levy that will raise approximately $650,000 in taxes payable in 2026, the first year it is to be levied. The levy would be authorized for 10 years and will be presented to the voters in a special election on November 4, 2025.

The final Dodge County Relay for Life raised over $70,000 last Friday night, according to a Sunday Facebook post from the event committee.