Readers’ Views

July 28, 2026

Lake noise To the editor: Lake noise shouldn’t be of the level that makes you want to put on industrial ear protection, like needed on the airport runway or when riding 1200 hp, no muffler airboat in the Florida Everglades. Yet, this Saturday there was a speedboat on the lakes for more than an hour that would compete with the loudest of these “feel-it-in-your-bones” noise sources. To what end? Probably early deafness for the operator or anyone within a couple hundred feet. That particular boat had no purpose on our lakes. Why is it allowed? Why didn’t the lake police slap ...

Readers’ Views

July 16, 2026

Walkers and mobility devices- get a tune up To the editor: When I recently arrived at an event at a local venue I was surprised to see an ambulance at the back door. It seems that someone’s walker “snapped” and left the owner with an injury. Thankfully, the person looked reasonably good but not walking. I hope it is a precautionary visit to the hospital. Later I looked at the walker. A strong looking plastic part had indeed “snapped”  - fractured. It was probably a defective part, but it may have
been caused by other loose parts that allowed some “wiggle” to ...

Readers’ Views

July 7, 2026

A plea for pickleball courts Dear Editor, As active pickleball players, we respectfully ask the Fairmont City Council to consider expanding indoor pickleball opportunities in Fairmont. For a city your size, having only one indoor regulation court is simply not enough to meet the growing demand. Additional indoor courts would allow residents to stay active and connected year-round, especially during Minnesota's long winters. Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in America, with participation continuing to grow across all age groups. Communities that invest in pickleball ...

Readers’ Views

July 3, 2026

No New Wars To the editor: Donald Trump campaigned on his promise of America first, no military presence in other countries. He said that we should not be in other countries starting wars, making regime changes, having a military presence or spending our dollars supporting other countries. Well, for not starting wars or even small conflicts, here is the tally to date: bombed Iraq 3-3-25, Yemen 3-15-25, Iran 6-22-25, Somila 12-14-25, Nigeria 12-25-25, Venezuela 1-2-26, Syria 1-11-26 and Iran again 2-28-26. This term, Trump says we need Greenland, Canada and Cuba to join us, and if they ...

Readers’ Views

June 27, 2026

Successful Triathlon weekend To the editor: It truly took a village to host the Fairmont Youth and Adult Triathlons and the 5K Run for the Bacon this past weekend. The event begins with generous sponsors who believe in our mission and make it all possible. The City of Fairmont graciously allows us to use the Aquatic Park and Gomsrud Park. Our Park Department sets up the fencing for the bike transition areas, while the County provides traffic cones and street barriers to help keep athletes and spectators safe. Athletes were treated to fresh fruit and cookies donated by Hy-Vee and ...

Readers’ Views

June 10, 2026

Thankful for donation To to the editor: Martin County People First would like to thank you, the Knights of Columbus, for the generous donation from April's Silent/Live Auction. This donation helps people with disabilities in Martin County lead fulfilling and active lives. It is much appreciated. With regards, Pat Kietzer Martin County People First Ally