TO THE EDITOR:
On 11/7/23, a public meeting to discuss the proposed Sherco Solar 3 project which is slated to cover 1,780 acres of farmable land with solar panels was held in Clear Lake. The hall was filled to capacity where dozens of citizens questioned and voiced their displeasure with this proposed project. A written transcript can be found on the MN Commerce website, docket # 21-217. 1. Numerous questions were raised by the public not only in regards to environmental concerns but financial, effects on food production, recycling, aesthetics and the morality of using Chinese slave labor for minerals and component from which these panels are made. On 12/21, Xcel sent a letter to the PUC to address the non-environmental comments, addressing (3) issues, in short saying that, ‘we care, are willing to work with the individual entities, but we are going to do it anyhow even if we have to use “eminent domain”. Not addressing these other valid concerns, Xcel, and I’m afraid the PUC, are simply going to ignore them and push ahead with their profit driven construction. The public should not stand for this. Contact your State Rep and ask them to hold Xcel and the PUC accountable.
Bret R. Collier
Big Lake, MN
TO THE EDITOR:
A great big thank you and Bravo Zulu to those involved with the Stella Huso birthday celebration this past weekend. Especially to Bill ‘sparky’ Hannay of Big Lake American Legion Post 147 and all the legion members. Thank you to Kathy Poslusny Big Lake American Legion Post 147 Woman’s Auxiliary and the wonderful members.
Thank you to Beyond The Yellow Ribbon, Big Lake Police and everyone who worked so hard to Celebrate Stella Huso 105th Birthday.....America’s Longest living Gold Star Mother. The celebration was not just to celebrate her birthday, but her sacrifice to this country. Her son Wayde was killed in action in Vietnam 1969. Stella has not only lost her son for this country but has fought and supported our veterans and military for over 50 years. I will be forever grateful and honored to know this woman and spend time conversing with her...I am blessed. I just can’t understand why previous Mayor’s of Big Lake, State Representatives and Current Council Members could not show respect for this wonderful American and her son Wade this past weekend by attending her 105th birthday. I am saddened that parents didn’t make time to have thier children meet a great American. I am confused at the apathy and lack of involvement our citizens have for events and people. Times have certainly changed that is for sure.
George Quinn
Big Lake, MN
TO THE EDITOR:
Politicians (Democrats) in the 2023 legislative session passed a copious number of bills, generally with limited input from citizens. This was certainly true with the hurried change of the Minnesota flag and seal. Dems claimed them to be racist. The Minnesota Historical Society refuted that stating “racism” of the original state seal was removed with the two previous revisions. 2100 designs came from the public (apparently some media outlets shared the news) for the flag and a few hundred for the seal (https://serc.mnhs.org/flags). Minnesota’s current flag was submitted 10 times. Numerous designs were “suspiciously” like flags from other countries and cultures despite denials of claims of “misinformation” from the state DFL chair. Guidelines to avoid new claims of “racism” admonished: “symbols, emblems, or likenesses that represent only a single community or person, regardless of whether real or stylized, may not be included in a design.” If the inclusion of French on the seal was offensive and exclusive, why is the “Star of the North” in English not acceptable? Why not English as the official language of the state and the nation? No, the new motto is in Dakota for “where the water meets the sky.” Is that not exclusionary? AP reported that “It’s not like many people were particularly attached to the old flag.” Then why are citizens now buying all available current flags? Does that not indicate they prefer the current flag and seal? If there is widespread public support for the new designs, would they not be waiting to make that purchase after May 11? As more Minnesotans learn now of the proposed changes, many have requested it appear on November’s ballot. Secretary of State Simon claims that is “unconstitutional.” Minnesotans must immediately contact their state representative, senator, and the governor’s office to indicate their displeasure and request a reversal of the 2023 decision. They work for us. (https://www.house.mn.gov/members/; https://www.senate.mn/members?id=alphabetical; https://mn.gov/governor/connect/contact-us/contact-form.jsp). The change will be final on May 11—statehood day.
Dr. Phyllis E. VanBuren, Clearwater MN
TO THE EDITOR:
Big Lake Spud Fest has board vacancies! How would you like to be part of this charitable organization and have fun planning one of the biggest community events in Big Lake? Calling all community members! The Spud Fest Board is seeking people to join in making our towns get together one of a kind. We have recently had members transitioning into other areas and are looking to fill our Board again. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to be a part of a 52 year tradition. Board members attend monthly meetings to assist in the planning process for Spud Fest held the last full weekend of June. If you are looking to get involved in the community, meet many new people, and wear a new hat, this Board is for you! The Board meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 6:30 in the community room next to the Big Lake Library. Interested members please email the Board your letter of interest to Secretary Deb Johnson at biglakespudfest@gmail.com.
Deb Johnson
Big Lake, MN
