To the editor:

I am simply writing to make more locals aware of one of the joys of life in New Ulm – namely, Martin Luther College (MLC).

The college is a major “player” in our town with advantages available to everyone:

• the campus is well kept and full of pleasing public art and landscaping to enjoy.

• having access to a college library is invaluable, especially for scholarly research,

but they also have many new releases our public library doesn’t carry and a wonderful video collection. All you need is a local Public Library card.

• there are many performances available to the public, such as plays, concerts, and presentations.

• enjoy the lovely new city overlook – it’s more accessible than climbing Hermann!

• the student body is polite and respectful to all – and they make great baby-sitters.

When I moved back home in 1995, I could palpably sense a major difference in the college’s view toward New Ulm. Instead of being “their own little world on the hill,” they had become a major part of our town’s social life and added to our general vitality. They have succeeded marvelously and are to be commended on their attitude of civic involvement.

Finally, 2017 is the 500th Anniversary of the beginning of the Protestant Reformation. A public showing of a movie-like documentary, “A Return to Grace: Luther’s Life and Legacy” will be given on Monday, Nov. 6, at 7:45 p.m. in the Wittenberg Auditorium. It is free, lasts about one hour, 45 minutes, and is very well done.

For Lutherans, you’ll enjoy the story of your religion’s founder; for non-Lutherans, come learn about the basics of a fascinating religion that many of your neighbors follow; and for amateur historians like me, learn about a movement that is one of the major events of Western history.

No matter your reasons, come and learn in an open and enjoyable manner. You will not regret the time spent.

Finally, for the cynical, I am not Lutheran, nor do I have any vested interest in promoting MLC — aside from that of a grateful citizen who wishes to share a treasure too many New Ulmites have yet to explore. I am proud to have MLC as a part of my town.

Terry Sveine

New Ulm