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THUMBS DOWN Political violence on the rise On Wednesday, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was murdered while giving a speech at Utah Valley University in Orem. This is just the latest in politically motivated violence. In June, Minnesota State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband were murdered in their home. Last year, there were multiple assassination attempts against Donald Trump. This is a level of politically motivated violence the United States has not seen in many years. At the same time, school shootings continue to occur frequently, with another shooting occurring at a ...

Walz gives access to COVID-19 vaccine a boost

Earlier this week, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz issued an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Health to expand its efforts to safeguard vaccine access in the state in response to federal actions restricting vaccine availability. The order also directs the state epidemiologist to issue a standing order for the COVID-19 vaccine. The order was issued to allow for greater flexibility for health care providers and pharmacists to provide the vaccine. “Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine,” Walz said in his press release. “While ...

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THUMBS UP HermannFest back with the Hermann 5K Saturday, New Ulm is celebrating Hermannfest, the festival that commemorates Arminus’ (Hermann’s) victory against three Roman legions at the Battle of Teutoburg Forest over 2,000 years ago. The entire celebration is held in Hermann and Harmon Park in the shadow of the Hermann Monument. New Ulm is often called the City of Festivals, with its wide range of celebrations, but Hermannfest has the distinction of being the most unique. It’s not connected to any other seasonal event celebrated in other communities. Outside of Germany, ...

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THUMBS DOWN Country unwilling to make changes to address school shootings The return to school was marred by a school shooting at the Annunciation Catholic School Wednesday. Two children were killed with another 17 wounded after the shooter fired into the church windows during morning Mass at the school. It is an unspeakable tragedy that has hit the Minneapolis community that is reminiscent of dozens of other school shootings that occur across the country every year. No matter how many times a school shooting happens it does not get easier. The country continues to be unable or ...

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THUMBS UP 3 area amateur baseball teams advance in state tournaments Last weekend three local Region 2C amateur baseball teams — Leavenworth, Hanska and Courtland — won the first rounds of the Class C State Baseball Tournament. While many amateur baseball teams make the tournament, it is rare for this many area teams to win in the first round. All three teams will play this weekend, along with the New Ulm Brewers who are in the Class B State Tournament. Local baseball fans will have plenty of teams to cheer for this weekend. THUMBS UP DNR grant for trap shooting range Trap ...

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Farmfest continues to be a great bellwether for the economy  In Minnesota, the first week of August is always dedicated to agriculture, whether it is through county fairs or Farmfest. One of the best agricultural events of the year. The event brings ag producers from across the state and even some from out of state. Nearly every Minnesota politician whether a representative, senator or even governor will drop in at Farmfest. That’s because agriculture is heavily tied to Minnesota’s economy. The future of the state is heavily tied to agriculture, meaning Farmfest is one of the best ...