Alicia Asleson Master Gardener volunteer  Fall is the perfect time to refresh your containers with rich colors, interesting textures, and seasonal accents. A few well-chosen annuals and perennials can turn a porch, patio, or entryway into a welcoming autumn display. Start with  fall-favorite annuals Mums are a classic choice, offering flowers in warm shades of… Read More

Thank you again to all the volunteers who helped with our recent Community Mural painting project “Spirit of the Prairie” on the Landmark Station. Thanks also to the volunteers who helped make our Corn, Brat, and Burger feed a success. To those of you who enjoyed the live music by the Spindler Family, they will… Read More

The Prairie Spy I remember a time when the Post Office delivered a box the size of a six-pack of beer that had 16 baby chicks inside, each one of them as happy as if they had a brain, cheeping and peeping merrily inside a world that barely measured six inches to a side. Then—two… Read More

Question: I am seeing more and more of these “J-turns” in Minnesota. Can you explain those to people who might not be familiar? Thank you.   Answer: J-turns are used to decrease fatalities and injuries caused by broadside crashes on four-lane divided highways.   At a J-turn, drivers on the side street approaching the divided… Read More

Artist Mimi Seykora is hosting a five day Pottery Workshop at the Landmark Station building, Tuesdays and Thursdays in September. Dates are scheduled for Sept. 8, 10, 15, 17 and 22, from 1-4 p.m. each day. Each student will have access to 25 lbs. of Stoneware Clay, Pottery Wheels, Slab Roller, Kiln Firing, and guidance… Read More

Sheriff and County Commissioner  Candidate  Forums to be held To the Editor Voters in Otter Tail County are invited to get to know this year’s commissioner and sheriff candidates at the Candidate Forums on September 26, 1-4 p.m. at the Ottertail City community room (near the current firehall) at 103 Lake Ave S. The Candidate… Read More

The Prairie spy According to Forbe’s magazine, in an article entitled: “Jerk Alert—Bad Boss Walking,” bad bosses are everywhere.  Before I go any further with this, I live with a boss. There. Just so you know. Any man worth his spot on the bell curve, which is a measure of intelligence, will strongly say that… Read More

Question: Can you talk about how people need to make proper turns? I see a lot of unsafe maneuvers when it comes to turning.   Answer: Drivers who turn improperly cause many traffic crashes. Move safely into the correct lane well ahead of the place where you will make the actual turn. • Slow down… Read More

By Audra Espinoza Senior manager with the  Center for Rural Affairs Every rural community faces challenges. Whether it’s finding housing, strengthening the local economy, supporting families, or keeping a school or hospital open, the biggest issues rarely have simple solutions. They require people who can bring others together around a shared vision. That’s why collaborative… Read More

By Jesse Grabow Ask a Trooper Question: I have a question on stop signs procedures. Can you go over this? I think it would be good for everyone to be aware as I think some people forget or get confused. Thank you for all you do.   Answer: Yes, I can. That is a great… Read More