Breaking News

Hermann Express not first city bus line

To the editor: During the week of Sept. 25, I had been seeing catchy ads for the new Hermann Express bus service. While I wish it all the success in the world, some of the ads call the new Hermann Express “New Ulm’s First City Bus Service.” I have to object to that incorrect statement. In 1946 Roger Booth started “New Ulm Bus Lines” to provide bus service throughout the city with the same concept that the new service hopes to achieve; transportation assistance to those who need it to include stops at various employers, shopping venues, and public service stops. After two ...

Chadderdon has leadership, work ethic for sheriff

To the editor: I am a retired Nicollet County investigator with 32 years of service. I worked for three excellent sheriffs in my career in law enforcement: George Witty, Buzz Witty and Jim Kollman. It is my belief many more sheriff’s office employees would have left our office sooner without the leadership of Chief Deputy Karl Jensen. Jensen has just retired, and the sheriffs office is in need of change in direction and leadership. I had the opportunity to work with Marc Chadderdon as a partner on the road as a deputy and in investigations for 20 years and witnessed his ...

Board focused on helping students succeed

To the editor: I urge my fellow citizens to vote in the Nov. 8 election. When voting for members of the New Ulm Board of Education, please vote for the three incumbent candidates: Steve Gag, Amanda Groebner (who is my daughter-in-law) and Melissa Sunderman. New Ulm’s public schools are great places for the education of our children and grandchildren, thanks to the contributions of teachers, staff and administration, parents, School Board members and many others. Look at the high school built in 2016 with its up-to-date facilities for classroom learning, performing arts and ...

Vote yes to continue ISD 88 levy

To the editor: Strong communities start with strong schools, and in November residents of District 88 can show their support for New Ulm by voting YES for the continuation of the ISD 88 operational levy approved by voters in 2012. Voting YES on this referendum does not mean you are signing up for an increase to your taxes. It is a continuation of an existing tax that provides $1.8 million in operational funding annually. If the levy does not pass this year, it will mean a reduction of 5.9% in the district’s operational budget. The funds have been, and will continue to be, used to ...

Backer is open-minded, success-driven leader

To the editor: Kathleen Backer has an infectious smile and laughter, she is bright and has confidence. She is an experienced leader, business person, effective communicator and has worked with all levels of government from local to county and state. In these busy, confusing and sometimes troubled times, it’s so great to have a good dose of sunshine and positivity to brighten our day. As the ambassador of New Ulm and Mayor, Kathleen will share that part of her gregarious personality with everyone she meets. We have the good fortune of living in a city with so many positives and in ...

School Board is promoting mental health, equity

To the editor: Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is well-regarded research in the psychology community. Maslow’s theory is often seen in the form of a pyramid. It suggests that humans have basic needs that must be met before moving on to the next level of functioning. Our most basic needs, include our physical needs; food, clothing, and shelter. Next, we have safety needs. Followed by love and belonging; friendship and connection can be included in this need. Once these needs are each met, we can move on to esteem needs; such as respect, strength, and recognition. Only if we achieve all ...