Why craft distilleries are finding a home in small-town Minnesota
Rural distilleries provide a case study in the latest thinking about econmic development in small towns, one that uses a multi-faceted approach to build economies on local strengths.
Gregg Aamot
Gregg Aamot is a longtime Minnesota journalist and college instructor. After getting his start at a newspaper in rural Minnesota, he spent a decade with The Associated Press in Minneapolis, reporting from many regions of the state. Aamot is the author of “The New Minnesotans: Stories of Immigrants and Refugees” and teaches English at Ridgewater College.
How University of Minnesota Extension provides a window into the state’s modern rural economy
As the rural economy has evolved, so too has the University of Minnesota Extension, the public agency charged with “extending” the university’s expertise and knowledge into every corner of the state.
How one Minnesota town leveraged its proximity to Fargo-Moorhead while keeping its small-town feel
Since 2000, Barnesville has been attracting new residents at a steady pace, growing 18 percent to today’s population of about 2,500. Many have easy commutes to jobs in Fargo-Moorhead, just 25 miles away.
How broadband helped a small town in Greater Minnesota land a high-tech business
The presence of a new business along the main drag of this Sibley County town – and a high-tech one, at that – has generated some buzz in the community.
Against the odds: How Minnesota’s community newspapers hold on in the digital age
“I love this job,” Swift County Monitor-News publisher Reed Anfinson said in his office in Benson. “What I worry about is what replaces me.”
‘In our blood’: The challenge of being a young farmer in Minnesota today
Just 6 percent of principal farm operators in Minnesota are under the age of 35, according to the most recent census data.
The Bemidji State bump: How one small-town university buoys the local economy
Bemidji benefits not only from the money BSU pumps into the local economy but also from its cultural impact, which includes plays and concerts, athletic events, workshops and speeches.
Chisago County has become a case study in the possibilities and politics of solar energy in Greater Minnesota
Farmers and other landowners in Chisago County have put up a dozen solar gardens, with another four now in the planning stages.
Minnesota’s rural interests look to build on recent gains at the Legislature
Rural priorities include the passage of another bonding bill; another increase in LGA funding; money for street repairs in small towns; broadband expansion and bolstered child care options.
The optimist: Longtime Granite Falls mayor, in an age of discontent, shares his faith in civic life
“What I really hope to do is demonstrate, educate and just encourage others to take the plunge and get involved,” said Dave Smiglewski. Of the lack of civic involvement, he said: “It’s a real threat to community life.”
How one small town is trying to solve Greater Minnesota’s day care crisis
“Several people here have had to quit because their home-based day care closed,” said Lynda Everson, HR director for Brunswick Boat Group. “It’s a constant frustration in our employee base.”
Small town, big wheels: How mountain biking saved a Minnesota mining town
Since the Cuyuna Lakes mountain bike trails opened, job growth in Crosby and the neighboring town of Ironton has been double that of the surrounding region. Last year, an estimated 185,000 people visited the area.
The future of Greater Minnesota’s economy is already here — and it looks a lot like Montevideo
Southwest Minnesota represents the “canary in the coal mine” when it comes to the state’s looming economic and workforce issues, offering a sneak peak at the challenges — and opportunies — for communities throughout Greater Minnesota.
Latin American passion for baseball and family finds outlet in Twin Cities amateur league
League Secretary Emilio Lopez traces Liga Latina’s beginnings to 1997, when Latin American immigrants began getting together in the Twin Cities for scrimmages.
At a Ramadan dinner, Minnesota Jews and Muslims find a chance to connect
On a June night, Shir Tikvah congregants welcomed members of Dar Al-Hijrah Mosque, from the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, for an iftar.
Here to stay? Journalist’s book considers the legacy of Minnesota’s Scandinavian-laced politics
Adding fresh perspective, Klas Bergman also considers the future of this political legacy — and whether it will live on as new waves of immigrants put down roots in the state.
U of M’s newly funded legal clinics bring immigration law to life
The James H. Binger Center for New Americans offers traditional classroom instruction while also giving students the chance to participate in actual cases.
In their own words: Green Card Voices’ ‘Immigration Stories’ books share student journeys
The books are a part of Green Card Voices’ work to strengthen ties, through storytelling, between immigrants and their new neighbors.
U.N. refugee expert talks resettlement in the age of Trump
Larry Yungk traveled to Minneapolis recently for the opening of a photo exhibition at the American Swedish Institute called “Where the Children Sleep.”
Beyond recruitment: How Metro State, other colleges help immigrants find success
Minnesota’s colleges and universities employ a variety of strategies for helping students who might be overwhelmed by the demands of college life.
