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Thank you to first responders To the editor: This is a heartfelt thank you to all the brave selfless men and women first responders who came to our aid at 322 S Park Monday evening. I witnessed total professionalism and dedication to duty by some of the finest people who are in service to our and other surrounding communities. It’s times like these that remind us what is important and the need to support each other and our communities. Thank you again for your dedication and service to all of our communities. Don Lasley Fairmont

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Letters to the Editor

Donating time to help others As we come into the holiday season, I start thinking about the special food we are going to eat and I’m extremely grateful. I also think about the people that might not have enough food. Earlier this year, my husband and I and another couple from church volunteered at the Martin County Kids Against Hunger food pack. The food packages are simple, yet very nutritious for people in need, some right here in Martin County. I encourage all who can to give of their time, talents or treasures to help out. I look forward to next year, February 7, 2026, ...

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Letters to the Editor

Former Director thankful for support Letter to the editor: Many thanks to everyone who has offered their kind words and support during this difficult time. I have always taken an immense and profound pride in the work I’ve accomplished over the years. Red Rock brought true happiness to my life, and it is overwhelming to realize that so many of you recognized and appreciated that dedication. I hold my head high, forever proud of the work I’ve done from the ground up. The foundation of the Red Rock was built on care, compassion, and unwavering loyalty to every one of our ...

No community center, no amenities?

Local Editorials

This week many people in the community felt a great loss when the Fairmont Area Community Center Foundation (FACC) announced that it would end efforts on pursuing the project. Even though a structure was never built and shovels never even made it into the ground, some people still mourn the thought of what could have been. In speaking with a few community members about it, most everyone admitted to being frustrated or disappointed by the news, some no doubt relieved, but hardly anyone said they were surprised by it and I think that in itself is sad. While it was 10 years in the making, ...

Readers' Views

Letters to the Editor

Tour of building bittersweet experience To the editor: Recently, through the kindness of Senator Amy Klobuchars’s office, a friend and I had the opportunity to participate in a brief tour of the U.S. Congress building in Washington, D.C. It was an honor to be there and hear about the sacred history of this country as told by our tour guide. But I could not help thinking about what happened in that building on Jan. 6, 2021, the day that Congress was to certify the 2024 Presidential election. On that day, thousands of people stormed this building, broke doors and windows, ...

Olsen’s concertina puts smiles on many faces

Local Editorials

"Is everybody happy.” Larry Olsen yelled out that more than once when he played his concertina with his brother Leon, who was also working his magic on the musical instrument well known in polka circles. While Larry hails from the Lake Benton area, his brother resided in New Ulm. But the two brothers often got together to share their love for polka. Leon Olson died on Oct. 22 after a brief battle with cancer at the age of 72. When it comes to polka music, Leon Olsen’s resume is extraordinary. He definitely leaves a musical legacy that rates among the great ones. He recorded ...