THUMBS DOWN

Federal government shutdown risky business

The federal government shutdown Wednesday after Congress was unable to make a funding deal. The sticking point is over enhanced Obamacare subsidies. It is not clear how long the shutdown will last. Hopefully some agreement can be made relatively quick to avoid extended furloughs for federal employees.

With this shutdown, there is also the risk of a permanent shutdown for certain departments. The Trump administration is threatening to use the shutdown as a way to layoff thousands of government employees. The last federal shutdown that began in 2018 lasted 35 days and was one of the longest in history. Has Congress learned to cooperate any better since that last shutdown? It does not seem like it.

THUMBS DOWN

Vikings playing with injury-prone starting offensive line

The Minnesota Vikings’ season is off to a rough start. The once promising offensive line is facing multiple injuries. It is starting to look unlikely the original starting line will be back together anytime this season. After getting Christian Darrisaw back from injury, the Viking are now without Brian O’Neill, Donovan Jackson and Ryan Kelly ahead of Sunday’s game against Cleveland. It’s bad news for the Vikings and their fans.

THUMBS UP

Oktoberfest kicks off

Oktoberfest is back and New Ulm is ready to celebrate the first weekend. New Ulm’s Oktoberfest celebration officially started Friday with the keg tapping at Best Western and will continue Saturday morning with the Germanic-American Day parade down Minnesota Street followed by music and games.

The weather for this year’s Oktoberfest is expected to be warmer than normal, with forecasts around 90 degrees. This is a wonderful opportunity to show the public why New Ulm’s Oktoberfest is often ranked one of the best in the nation.