Welcome to our new and improved web site.
Please click on the logo of the newspaper you would like to read.

Cole Birkeland

Candidates for state, federal seats speak

• The Journal extended an invitation to state and federal legislative candidates on the ballot in Cottage Grove to fill out a short questionnaire. Following are the responses. Not all candidates …

Mayor Bailey gives business and project updates

Cottage Grove residents can expect several new businesses to open in the coming months as major road construction projects near completion, Cottage Grove Mayor Myron Bailey shared recently. Writing …
Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones speaks during the announcement of a new turf field at United Heroes League in Hastings. Seated from left are United Heroes League founder Shane Hudella, Scheels representative Lauren Halseth, Hastings Community Education representative Jaci Hansey and Minnesota Vikings Vice President of Social Impact Brett Taber. Members of the Hastings girls flag football team stand to Jones' left, while St. Thomas Academy cadets stand to his right. The new field will provide additional opportunities for military families and local athletes.

Vikings star Aaron Jones helps bring new turf field to United Heroes League

For Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones, a new turf football field at United Heroes League in Hastings represents much more than a place to play. It represents the friendships, opportunities …

New ladder truck highlights Hastings Fire Department open house

The Hastings Fire Department welcomed families, children and curious residents to its annual open house Tuesday, Oct. 6, offering an evening of hands-on activities, fire safety education and a chance …
Winners from the costume contest included, from left, grand prize winner Nova Valorshon, of Hager City, dressed as a Mushroom Queen (ages 9-17); Jill Halvorson, of Hager City, and Layla Ingli, of River Falls, dressed as Dumb and Dumber (group costume); Christy Aufderhar, of Beldenville, as Little Shop of Horrors (adult category); and Sydney Hove, of Ellsworth, as a giant Dachshund (ages 8 and under). Not pictured: Zach Sloan, of Beldenville, dressed as Freddy (ages 9-17 finalist).

GALLERY: First Haunted Fairgrounds is ‘spooktacular’

ELLSWORTH - The inaugural Haunted Fairgrounds Festival, the brain child of Melissa and Gregg Nelson of Ellsworth, drew thousands of visitors to the Pierce County Fairgrounds Saturday, Oct. 31 for a …

Ellsworth Public Library invites community to Mocktails & Appetizer Tasting Party

ELLSWORTH – The Ellsworth Public Library invites adults to a free Mocktails & Appetizer Tasting Party from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12. Enjoy an evening of delicious treats, refreshing …
David Crowley

State ballot choices set for November 3

STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL Next on the rundown of state offices to be decided this election is state attorney general. On the ballot are two candidates, Josh Kaul (Democrat) and Eric Toney (Republican). …

Vietnam Veteran Bill Buss receives 2026 Veterans Advocacy Award

Vietnam War veteran and longtime veterans advocate Bill Buss was honored with the 2026 Veterans Advocacy Award by the Wisconsin County and Tribal Veterans Service Officers Association (WTCVSO) during …
Bonus, web-only content

How to reduce posterior sweat: A guide to staying fresh and dry

AXE reports that butt sweat is normal and can be managed through hygiene, breathable fabrics, and proper habits to stay fresh and confident.

One Big Beautiful Bill: Your top questions answered

Intuit TurboTax reports the One Big Beautiful Bill extends key tax provisions, introducing changes for 2026, including higher SALT limits, new deductions for tips and overtime, and enhanced credits for families and seniors.

Do stocks beat prediction markets? For most people, yes

The Motley Fool reports that over 82% of Polymarket wallets lost money in 2025, highlighting the risks of prediction markets compared to the steady returns of the S&P 500.

Buying a home together: Financial tips for couples taking the next big step

Wells Fargo reports couples buying a home should communicate openly, define must-haves, find a trusted real estate agent, and stay engaged with their lender.

The hidden cost of minimum car insurance coverage

TheZebra.com reports that while lowering car insurance coverage can reduce premiums, it risks financial vulnerability in major accidents. 

5 unique Thanksgiving main dishes to make on the grill

Wildfire Outdoor Living reports on unique Thanksgiving grilling recipes from Wildfire Outdoor Living, featuring dishes like Five-Spice Rotisserie Pork and Blackened Tri-Tip.