TO THE EDITOR:
This is the 4th summer my husband and I have spent at TCCOM otherwise known as the Travelers Country Club on the Mississippi. We are located along the Mississippi approximately 2.5 miles from Clearwater and Clear Lake and 6.5 miles from Becker on County Road 8. It is a classic golf community/resort with amenities such as a large swimming pool, tennis and pickle ball courts, an activity building with regularly scheduled activities as well as river access for kayaking and fishing. Each member owns their own park model home or stationary RV situated on one of 299 lots spread over one-hundred acres of grounds. Currently close to 30 units are for sale and a public Open House is set for Sunday, September 7 from noon to 3:00 p.m. for tours of the units for sale and the entire community. We are frequently told by locals that they lived in the area all their lives but did not know this resort existed as it is not visible from Co. Rd 8. We love it because it is a great place to spend summers and our friends and relatives love it too. If you are considering where to spend time with your family during the summer, this is a great place and it is more affordable than a lake cabin. We encourage you to check it out. We would love to have you join us. Please attend our Open House or contact the TCCOM office at 320-743-3133.
Melanie Dunlap
Clear Lake, MN
TO THE EDITOR:
In Minnesota, the State Fair and the publication of academic scores of public-school students mark the end of summer. While some celebrate the highest graduation rate in the state’s history, others ask if those diplomas are “participation diplomas,” akin to trophies presented to all participants at numerous school events. The data from the MN Department of Education revealed that 84.2% of the class of 2024 graduated. Unfortunately, that group also had the lowest math and reading proficiency scores. Would the data be so celebratory if the 2013 DFL-controlled legislature had not removed the high school exit exam that required specific reading and math scores to earn a diploma? Are these graduates ready to enroll in advanced 2- or 4-year programs or to enter the work world? Commissioner Jett applauds their access to a world-class education. Do these young people possess the skills to compete professionally? Many consider the reading score in 3rd grade as the benchmark indicator of a student’s potential for academic uccess. Catrin Wigfall, Policy Fellow at Center of the American Experiment, prepared a table from the MDE data that ranks all districts and the reading scores of their 3rd graders (except those with too few students to list and maintain privacy) in 2024. Find your school district (https://www.americanexperiment.org/third-grade-reading-how-does-your-district-measure-up/) and consider personal commitment to help MN’s students “earn” their diploma. Ignorance is not bliss!
Dr. Phyllis E. VanBuren
Clearwater, MN
TO THE EDITOR:
As we wrap up another back-to-school season, we at The Compassion Connection want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our community and surrounding communities. For the past 10 years, you have stood with us in supporting children and teens in foster care — not only during busy seasons like back-to-school, but all throughout the year. Whether it’s donating school supplies, hosting drives, sponsoring events, purchasing needed items, or volunteering your time, your kindness has been a steady reminder that these kids are seen, valued, and loved. This year’s back-to-school efforts were a shining example of what happens when a community comes together. Because of your generosity, we were able to send foster youth into the new school year prepared, confident, and with the dignity they deserve. To every business, organization, church, and individual who has partnered with us — thank you. Your continued support over the past decade has allowed us to keep our resource closet open, fill urgent needs, and provide hope for kids and families walking through difficult seasons. It truly takes a village, and we are grateful to live in one that shows up again and again.
With heartfelt thanks,
Kevin &
Amy Drehmel, Founders
Compassion Connection
Becker, MN
TO THE EDITOR:
We want to publicly commend Wright County Sheriff Deringer for demonstrating exceptional leadership in community dialogue. Sheriff Deringer recently met with diverse stakeholders—including clergy, Wright County Indivisible, and immigrant community members—to discuss concerns about potential ICE activities.As an outcome, the Sheriff committed to meet with the group to develop a protocol that ensures collaboration with ICE remains within legal and constitutional boundaries while prioritizing the safety and welfare of all Wright County citizens. He also agreed to speak at the next Wright County Indivisible meeting on September 8 at the Monticello VFW. This proactive approach represents exactly the transparent, community-centered law enforcement our county needs. By bringing together diverse voices, Sheriff Deringer ensures that the Sheriff’s Office reflects our community’s values while maintaining the highest legal standards. This process provides crucial reassurance that the Sheriff’s Office will be guided by the highest law enforcement standards, with transparency and strict adherence to the Constitution and the law. We applaud Sheriff Deringer for choosing dialogue over silence and transparency over uncertainty. This thoughtful leadership makes Wright County better for all residents. We encourage other community members to engage in this important process and thank the Sheriff for creating space for these vital conversations.
Rose Thelen
Clearwater, MN
TO THE EDITOR:
I would like to express my support for Mayor Tim Goenner and the positive impact he has had on our community. He has dedicated his time and energy to serving Clear Lake, always working to move the city forward. His efforts—whether through community events, supporting local initiatives, or addressing concerns—have made a difference for many of us. While the City Council recently voted to censure Mayor Goenner, it is important to remember that disagreements are part of leadership. What matters most is working together in the best interest of Clear Lake, with respect for one another. Our city deserves collaboration, transparency, and decisions made with integrity. The council, too, should be held to that standard—serving respectfully in the best interest of the city. I encourage citizens of Clear Lake to attend council meetings and see firsthand how decisions are made. Our community works best when we are engaged, informed, and present.
Corrina Koenig
Clear Lake, MN
