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Bicyclists will find challenges on area gravel roads Saturday
Original article published in the Mower County Independent, Thursday, March 14, 2026. Reprinted with permission and gratitude. By David Phillips The back roads around Spring Valley take people away from the bustle of modern life to a tranquil respite amidst the beauty of the rolling hills of southeastern Minnesota. For gravel bicyclist enthusiasts, those…
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Economic Development Authorities: Rich, Rural Community Assets
Article and photo images courtesy of the Fillmore County Journal, April 6, 2026 By Charlene Corson Selbee, Economic Development Authorities (EDAs) play a critical role in supporting rural communities by providing financial tools and guidance. In Fillmore and Houston Counties, two key EDA programs, Revolving Loan Funds (RLFs) and grants, serve as essential resources…
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Area Woman Brings Stories from the Past to Life – Laney Smith is not only a genealogist, but also a podcaster, historian and even detective
Article and photo images reprinted with permission courtesy of the Root River Current By David Phillips, March 31, 2026 SPRING VALLEY — Like many children, Laney Smith of rural Spring Valley enjoyed playing with dolls, an activity that unlocked her imagination, allowing her to create stories about their lives. Even after outgrowing dolls, her love of…
The long, arduous road to American identity
Original article published in the Mower County Independent, Thursday, March 5, 2026. Reprinted with permission and gratitude. By David Phillips A Lunch and Learn program at Good Earth Village on Feb. 24 about abolitionists and the Underground Railroad in the area led to thoughts about what it means to be an American, even today. At…
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