Congrats on 10 years
This newspaper wasn't thrilled with the concept of a Fairmont aquatic park and $2.2 million cost 10 years ago. Voters had no say in the matter and we worried about ongoing maintenance costs, which today have reached $1 million.
That said, we understand that no city park "makes" money and we know the aquatic park has seen 350,000 visitors in 10 years. Many come from out of town, meaning they also may spend money at stores and restaurants here.
Is a public aquatic park ideal? We'll still say no. But it's also not a tragedy. We congratulate the park on its 10th birthday.
Process played out
Some Minnesotans simply were too impatient with the process that led to Al Franken being named the new senator from Minnesota. They berated Norm Coleman for challenging the results of a recount that left Franken with a slim lead.
We believe the process played out appropriately and has given Minnesotans a result they can accept. The state's high court this week rejected Coleman's appeal, and he graciously conceded the race.
We wish Sen.-elect Franken the best of luck as he begins his new duties. We appreciate his words about having the best interests of Minnesotans in mind.
Must remain focused
Results of the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment II tests have again left area schools with a mixed bag of results, while statewide averages are flat. We hope citizens and school officials will continue to use the results as they should: As a tool to improve.
We know area schools have been and are working diligently to improve test scores, but there are a variety of factors involved, including the most basic: the student and his or her background. Of course, every student deserves the fullest effort from our schools, which is also a reason for the testing.
Thanks, Fergusons
Part of the calling of a Salvation Army captain requires them to go where they are told, when they are told. That can make for difficult separations for captain and the community they have served. Such is the case for the Fairmont area and captains Paul and AmyJo Ferguson, who have been here four years, a long time for a Salvation Army stint.
We wish the Fergusons the best of luck in Ottumwa, Iowa, and thank them for their dedicated service to the community and its less fortunate.