Obedience
When my husband and I began dating, we took his mom’s dog to the vet. In the waiting room, we paged through a book of dog breeds. I was struck by a photo of a magnificent dog - an Old English Sheepdog. I remembe...
Editorials
Protecting Your Privacy
(Editor’s Note: The following column was submitted by Rep. Tom Emmer.)As the leaves and the temperature continue to fall in Minnesota, I’m headed back to Washington this week to defend the interests of the Sixth...
Let The Good Times Roll
It’s been a while since my last column and I’ve got a lot on my mind. The spring and summer months have cruised on by and with Autumn’s arrival, I’m finally starting to feel control and purpose are re-entering m...
Criminal Accountability
(Editor’s Note: The following column was submitted by Sen. Mary Kiffmeyer.)Our state has always been known for its accessibility throughout rural Minnesota, safe streets for our families, and a legislature that ...
The Needs of ISD 726
(Editor’s Note: The following column was submitted by Becker Public Schools.)After an unsuccessful referendum in May, the needs of Becker Public Schools still remain and have only increased since that time. This...
Get Out to Vote!
(Editor’s Note: The following column was submitted by Big Lake Schools.)As we approach the November 2 school bond referendum, I want to encourage you to vote!The last major investment in facilities was in May of...
Pumpkin Annals
It’s hard to beat this time of year. The cool days, the colorful trees and pumpkins. Ya, that’s right, pumpkins. I find pumpkins fascinating. Especially the history of pumpkins. You might agree after reading abo...
How Much is Too Much?
When I was a kid, I would often grab one dollar, bike up to Bolla’s bait shop across town (was Becker big enough to bike “across”?) and buy three Daredevils. From there, it was a short ride down then Co. Rd. 4 t...
Chilling Words
“We’ve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin.” These words, spoken by President Joe Biden recently, were aimed at the millions of Americans who have not received the coronavirus vaccine. They’re the mos...
Becker Schools: Remember to Vote!
(Editor’s Note: The following column was submitted by Becker Public Schools.)This November, the ISD 726 School Board is asking residents to consider two questions to improve Becker’s schools: Question 1 would im...
Copyright © 2026 Patriot News MN. All Rights Reserved.