MINNESOTA — In this episode of the Echo Press News Minute, reporter Lisa Johnson talks about Oktoberfest, upcoming school referendums in several Douglas County communities, the possible effects of the federal government shutdown on area residents, and a new arts space opening in Alexandria.

Those stories and more, this week on the Echo Press News Minute.

Check out the top headlines from October 22 and October 24 below:

October 22, 2025

Kidtoberfest and Oktoberfest events to be held this weekend

Q&A provides information about Alexandria Public Schools proposed capital projects levy

Insurance premium rate hikes worrying older Minnesotans in particular

Osakis School Board forwards new school bonding plan to the state

In Alexandria, Patty Wetterling recounts abduction of her son, Jacob

Chasing a championship, Osakis' Leah Maddock brings wealth of experience to state tennis

October 24, 2025:

Celebrating Banned Books Week in Alexandria

Voters in Alexandria, Minnewaska and Parkers Prairie will answer ballot questions in Nov. 4 election

Alexandria School Board discusses Title IX litigation impact on funding

Douglas County commissioners learn how federal government shutdown could impact residents

New space for art exhibits, workshops and more to open in downtown Alexandria

Unified approach to guide Minnewaska Area volleyball in Section 6AA tournament

Opinion

MINNESOTA — In this episode of the Echo Press News Minute, reporter Lisa Johnson talks about west-central Minnesota kids being under-vaccinated, victims of domestic violence sharing their stories, and catching up with former Alexandria-area athletes.

Those stories and more, this week on the Echo Press News Minute.

Check out the top headlines from October 15 and October 17 below:

October 15, 2025

West central Minnesota kids under-vaccinated

A safer walk to Alexandria's Voyager Elementary School makes progress

Listening session offers advice for property insurance and severe weather

A roundup of unpublished Photo of the Week submissions

Sophomore Evan Dingwall does it all to help A-B-E football

October 17, 2025

Parents of Ariel, who was the victim of a domestic violence homicide, speak out in Alexandria

Domestic abuse survivor who became a criminal prosecutor tells her story in Alexandria

Alexandria Halloween Parade route is changing

Lead found in drinking water of two Osakis homes, and a rental housing ordinance under discussion

Catching up with former Alexandria-area athletes: Osakis' Meyer earns UMAC defensive player of the week

Opinion

MINNESOTA — In this episode of the Echo Press News Minute, reporter Lisa Johnson talks about lots of groundbreakings, an Alexandria woman excited to turn 102 on 10-2, and Kalon Prep students doing their part to give to their community.

Those stories and more, this week on the Echo Press News Minute.

Check out the top headlines from October 1 and October 3 below:

October 1, 2025

'Loving on' the community - Feeding the 5001 event gifts Alexandria

New name, new look for Runestone Community Center in Alexandria

Ceremony breaks ground for Alexandria College's new transportation building

Alexandria Airport named 'premiere location' to support electric-powered airplanes

Alexandria woman turns 102 on 10-2

Football: Osakis cruises to Homecoming night victory over rival Sauk Centre

October 3, 2025:

Kalon Prep students raise $1,500 for Douglas County Habitat for Humanity at dunk tank fundraiser

Alexandria Fire Department to hold open house Oct. 6

Petition to enter guilty plea filed in felony child torture case

Opinion