DNR seeks information as part of statewide  study The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is asking hunters and other recreationists spending time outdoors this fall to report the locations of occupied bear dens they encounter in and around the Brainerd and Duluth areas. Bear researchers with the DNR and University of Minnesota Duluth hope to… Read More

Lee Rogness, a dedicated public servant and Otter Tail County Commissioner since 2009, has served the Fergus Falls area during his 16-year tenure. An advocate for economic and community development, Rogness spearheaded many initiatives such as the Big Build rebate program, enhanced workforce opportunities, expanded broadband access, addressed childcare needs, and improved county residents’ quality… Read More

Winner Earns Trip to Washington, D.C. A winning essay will earn one area high school student an expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., next spring to visit the capital and learn about the rural broadband industry as part of the Foundation for Rural Service Youth Tour. Arvig will sponsor the winner of its essay contest to attend… Read More

Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach recently spoke at the Minnesota Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. She is grateful for the work and strength of the agriculture community, both here in Minnesota’s Seventh Congressional District, and across the state and country. “I was pleased to be able to join the Minnesota Farm Bureau’s annual meeting,” Fischbach said. “I look forward… Read More

Photos by Chad Koenen The Ottertail Community Center was abuzz on Saturday for the annual OtterDazzle celebration in Ottertail. The day featured a visit from Santa Claus (above), as well as wagon rides (below left), arts and crafts (below right), cookie decorating and a large fireworks show. 

The VFW Post 3289 Auxiliary met November 14 with 18 members and two guests present. Minutes from the October 10 meeting were approved, and the October 31 Treasurer’s Report was filed subject to audit. The General Orders Bulletin for November 2024 from the Department President was read and discussed.  We received a thank you from the VFW… Read More

Photo by Chad Koenen Children from across the region converged on the New York Mills City Hall Ballroom on Saturday morning for the annual Santa Day celebration. The day kicked off a busy week of festivities as part of the NY Mills Christmas Tree Festival. For more information about the festival, check out page 12. 

Light show features 41-foot lighted walk-through By Tucker Henderson Reporter Though the extended hours of darkness during the winter season isn’t always a benefit, Mike Schmidt of Mike’s Lock & Key Service of Butler, Minn., is making the most of the early evening darkness with his computer controlled light display. He has been hosting a Christmas… Read More

By Tucker Henderson Reporter The New York Mills community lost a friendly face and faithful friend in May when 11-year-old Lucille Schik passed away after a battle with brain cancer for the second time. As the community mourns her loss, they also want to remember the mark she left on those who are left behind. “The sixth… Read More

By Chad Koenen Publisher A faulty electric meter at New York Mills School has resulted in an approximately $91,000 bill from Otter Tail Power Company.  During its regularly scheduled meeting last week, the NY Mills School Board heard from Christopher Waltz of Otter Tail Power Company about a bill the school district received for back due power… Read More