By Alisha Asleson Master Gardener By midsummer, even the healthiest petunias can begin to look tired. After weeks of producing colorful blooms, the plants often become leggy, develop long stems with fewer flowers, and lose the full, mounded shape they had in spring. While it may seem counterintuitive, this is the perfect time to give… Read More

Question: I know school is out but I had a grandchild that served on their school patrol. Can you talk about this so people are aware and can keep all our children safe?   Answer: When you see a student safety patrol helping schoolmates cross a street or highway, you must come to a complete… Read More

Otter Tail County Historical Society is sponsoring a Historic Henning Walking Tour this Thursday, July 9 at 7 p.m. Celebrate our nations 250th by exploring our community with recently retired director, Chris Schuelke. Two people mover wagons will be available for those not wishing to walk. A $10 registration fee will benefit research at OTC… Read More

The prairie spy The very first thing you noticed when you set foot in Vietnam was sandbags. Well, sandbags after you noticed the sweltering humidity and heat, I guess. Everything sandbaged. Everywhere, sandbagged. The mess hall; the outhouse–yes, even the outhouse; all buildings, sleeping areas, headquarters offices; everything. This story is about filling sandbags, and… Read More

Artist Ruth Hanson will conduct a two-day painting workshop featuring Independent Layering using Acrylic paints, collage, and graphic images to create a multi-layered artwork on Watercolor Paper on Thursday June 25 from 5:30-7:30 p.m., and Saturday June 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Space is limited so please call to RSVP by June 18…. Read More

By Jessica Carlson Otter Tail County Master Gardener Volunteer After a long spring, many Minnesota gardeners are finally seeing the reward for their patience. Annuals are beginning to fill out containers, perennials are coming into bloom, and roses are starting to put on their seasonal display. The garden seems to finally be settling into the… Read More

Alan Linda The Prairie Spy My family in the past has had its share of contact with somewhat famous people, if by famous we’re talking about outlaws.  One such legend includes my Uncle Hugh, who had a farm in NE Iowa that bordered on some caves, where it was rumored that Jesse James and his… Read More

Jesse Grabow Ask a Trooper Question: I saw last article talking about motorcycles. I know there was a new law last year about lane splitting. Can you write about that? Answer: Lane splitting and lane filtering was legal in Minnesota as of July 1, 2025. Motorists and motorcyclists need to be aware of this new… Read More

Working in a farm successor as part of a retirement plan To the Editor, Are you one of the many farmers without an identified farm successor? Purdue University says that’s around 75 percent, and about half expect nonfamily members to take over. A gradual shift of responsibilities and ownership, plus an extended mentoring period, can help… Read More

Landmark center Welcome to summer and congratulations to all the Henning graduates from the Class of 2026. Wishing you the best as you move forward in your new life adventures. The Landmark Center invites you to attend our annual meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, June 10 at 5 p.m. Help us celebrate our 17th year with… Read More