It was a short Truth-in-Taxation public hearing Thursday night, before Dodge County commissioners approved a tax levy increase of 5.7%.

Fernbrook Family Center of Rochester has acquired Lighthouse Child and Family Services, a trusted mental health provider serving central Minnesota.
This partnership marks an exciting step forward in expanding access to high-quality, person-centered mental health care for individuals, families, and communities across the region.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Larry Chester, age 75, of Kasson, who peacefully left us at his home on Nov. 26, 2025.
Born on Dec. 30, 1949, in Worthington, to Lloyd Chester and Ruby (Tollefson) Chester, Larry grew up in the Windom area, where he attended school and began building a life filled with love, service, and adventure.

Drunk driving significantly impacts families across Minnesota. And, sadly, we’ve seen it right in our own community.
Over the past month, we had some major stories about suspected drunk driving in Steele County. Most notably, the fatal wreck near Hope that killed a woman at the hands of a man suspected of being more than twice the legal limit to drive. His case is pending in court.

A few years ago, my wife and I entered the world of homeownership.
When we first moved back to Minnesota, we lived in an apartment, and about halfway through our lease, we decided instead of paying rent, it was time to look for a home of our own.
We searched different places in the metro, and we found a home we fell in love with.

During the discussion at a men’s book study, someone asked, “Are your best years ahead of you or behind you?” There was a long silence while everyone thought for a moment.