By Samantha Siedow Report for Minnesota A pilot program that aims to address a shortage of cancer care in rural Minnesota would receive funding under legislation being considered at the State Capitol. The “rural cancer gap” describes a trend in preventable deaths from cancer being higher in rural areas than in urban communities. Though death rates for cancer… Read More

By Elias Thomas Report for Minnesota Supporters of proposed legislation that would prohibit future sales of dogs and cats at pet stores say it would ensure that animals are treated well and protect consumers while not harming current store owners.  The bill, which was heard by the House commerce committee on Tuesday, April 1, has a grandfather clause… Read More

Audrey Weller, Lucey Minten, Ella Horn, Caroline Schwantes and Maggy Weller were crowned as the 2025 East Otter Tail County Midwest Dairy Association Dairy Princess Ambassadors.  The coronation was held at Mills Lanes and Lucky Strike Grill on March 30.  Audrey is the daughter of Brad and Bridget Weller of New York Mills, Lucey is the… Read More

Meeting included time for residents to ask questions On Monday March 31, the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners hosted a well-attended open house in Henning, bringing together residents and county staff for an evening of meaningful discussions and community engagement. Representatives from multiple county departments shared updates on services and upcoming projects. Bob Ehlert from… Read More

By Louis Hoglund Pelican Rapids Press Maplewood State Park is the ultimately logical place for Bill Anderson to serve as park manager. Maple trees, maple leaves, maple syrup, and almost anything else maple have been a constant for Anderson. In fact, he arrived for duty just in time for the annual Maplewood-Vergas maple syrup festival, coming up on… Read More

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to recognize the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect. Otter Tail County remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children and supporting families with resources that enable them to thrive. “Otter Tail County is dedicated to strengthening families… Read More

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has named the West Central Small Business Development Center (SBDC) as the Minnesota Small Business Development Center of Excellence 2025. The West Central SBDC was chosen for its excellence and innovation in training, counseling and advisory board engagement and strategic partnership best practices. The West Central SBDC, hosted by the… Read More

The Community Lenten Cantata, made up of singers from Perham, New York Mills,  Vergas and other surrounding communities, will be performing the cantata “He’s Alive” by Claire Cloninger and Gary Rhodes.  This cantata, directed by Adam Tervola Hultberg and accompanied by Janell Brakel, details the moving events of Holy Week in song and narration.  Performances will… Read More

Contributed photo With the surprise April snowstorm came the perfect precipitation for making snowmen, something that many local children and families got outside to do. This family of four snow people waved at passerby’s along Centennial 84 Drive.

Photos by Tucker Henderson New York Mills kindergartners had a special friend visit their class and enjoyed a tasty treat during the annual Donuts with Grown ups event on Friday. The students and their friend enjoyed a donut, arts and crafts, as well as a number of activities throughout the afternoon.