THUMBS UP

Plenty of Memorial Day observations

It is Memorial Day Weekend, a time to remember those we have lost over the years. Many area communities, including Sleepy, Nicollet, Lafayette, Gibbon, Winthrop, Springfield, and New Ulm, are holding special Memorial Day programs on Monday. The New Ulm Memorial Day observance begins at 10 a.m. in the Lower Soldiers Rest. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held in the New Ulm Community Center.

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$100K NUMAS Haus donation shows community’s generosity

New Ulm Ministerial Association Shelter (NUMAS) Haus received a $100,000 donation to their capital campaign from Brian and Ronda Mathiowetz. This donation brings NUMAS within $103,000 of their capital campaign to raise $1.062 million to renovate the former First United Methodist Church into additional shelter space. NUMAS is now 95% of the way toward funding the three phases of the capital campaign. The three phases included creating extra living spaces, renovating the sanctuary and remodeling rooms into studio apartments. The NUMAS Haus capital campaign for the renovation only began a year ago. The speed at which the funds have been raised is a testament to the community’s generosity and the importance of NUMAS’ mission.

THUMBS DOWN

Appreciation for Dahms showing up for town hall

Thursday, State Senator Gary Dahms took part in a legislative town hall in New Ulm, which was well attended by the public. Unfortunately, the town hall became contentious very quickly with Dahms refusing to talk about any federal issues or the controversial actions taken by President Donald Trump. It led to a great deal of frustration among constituents who were concerned about wanting to speak with their elected officials, but are feeling unheard. Across the country, Republican members of Congress are refusing to hold town halls with constituents. The few who do have faced tough questions on tariffs, potential Medicaid cuts, and rushed deportations of immigrants. For many area constituents, Dahms was the first and only member of the Republican party willing to speak publicly. Dahms was thanked for at least attending the town hall, but it is disappointing that few legislators can clear this low bar.