News

MSHSL physicals

As the 2026-27 school year approaches, the Waseca High School Activities Office would like to remind families that Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) athletic physicals are required for all students entering 7th and 10th grade who plan to participate in school-sponsored athletics....

SWING BIG - Jacey Jensen took a swing at the Waseca Hockey Association's free goalie challenge for a chance to win prizes at the Waseca County Fair, Saturday, July 11, 2026.

Pioneer photo by Ben Revermann

Goalie challenge draws potential players

Next to the Bingo tent at the Waseca County Fairgrounds was a tent set up for a hockey challenge and raffle. Grant and Jen Popp were volunteering on Saturday, July 11 with the hope they will raise funds for local area hockey teams and add players to their roster. Grant was sitting on a fold-up...

REAL LIFE EXPERIMENT: Teens Peyton Ross with “the planet’s funniest hypnotist” Freddie Justice. Pioneer photos by Deb Bently

Two teens test truth of hypnosis

Hypnotist Freddie Justice gave three performances on the free stage at the Waseca County Free Fair over the weekend of July 11 and 12. At least one of them drew a crowd of 70 or more–some of whom took seats before the show began, others of whom were drawn in to watch and ended up standing in a...

RED, WHITE AND FUN - The 2026 Lakefest Boat Parade at Clear Lake Park took place on Saturday, July 4. Right, the Discover Waseca Tourism boat was a patriotic fest. Pioneer photos by Ben Revermann

Boat Parade brings patriotism, creativity

The 2026 Lakefest Boat Parade took place in front of Clear Lake Park on our nation’s 250th birthday, this past July 4, 2026. The beach was full of cheering Fourth of July celebrants who came to watch the show and take a dip in the lake. Prizes were given in numerous categories: Taking first in...

Jessie Niño, who graduated from Waseca High School in 2009, now makes his living by producing a YouTube Channel named "Jessie's Drone Adventures." He is shown here with a plaque YouTube provides to creators who reach 100,000 viewers, and with his drone and its remote control. Pioneer photo by Deb Bently

Beloved hobby leads to enviable employment

“I never pictured myself doing this,” admits Jessie Niño. “But I’m glad it worked out this way.” Even since before graduating from Waseca High School in 2009, Niño had begun a YouTube channel. “It was always just a way to have some fun,” he recalls. He would carry around a handheld camera,...

Jake Lieser was on the winner’s podium three times during the national Special Olympics competition in the Twin Cities in June. He is pictured here at a surprise reception held in his honor on June 30 by the Waseca Exchange Club, of which he is a member. Pioneer photo by Deb Bently

National competition is special in every way for Wasecan Lieser

There were many things Jake Lieser knew he would be experiencing as he took part in the national-level Special Olympics competition held from June 20 to 26 in the Twin Cities. He knew he would see old friends and make new ones. He knew the atmosphere would be one of friendly acceptance and...

RACING TO THE END - The 40th annual Bob Childs Elysian Turtle Races were held on July 4, with many contestants armed with five-gallon pails with painted turtles. Pioneer photo by Ben Revermann

Elysian turtle races feature finest turtles

There was excitement in the air at the 40th annual Bob Childs Elysian Turtle Races along main street on the 250th anniversary of America, Saturday, July 4, 2026. There were so many contestants carrying 5-gallon pails holding clawing, scratching, green painted turtles that the crowd was spilling...

HELPING THE HELPLESS - Aspyn Acres has rescued domestic animals and rehabilitated wild animals.

Apsyn Acres authorized to take in fawns

Aspyn Acres, located north of Waseca, has a “split” personality. The 15-acre facility owned and operated by lifelong area resident Chasity Haslip, has pens, buildings and open areas where rescued domestic animals including goats, sheep, and all manner of fowl can live out their days in...

HOOTING GOOD TIME - Aspyn Acres Wildlife Rescue & Farm Sanctuary will receive ten percent of Andrew’s Pro Clean net sales in July.

Owatonna business donating ten percent to Aspyn Acres

Andrew's Pro Clean, a locally owned carpet, tile, upholstery, leather, commercial floor, and area rug cleaning company based in Owatonna, is helping a Waseca county sanctuary this July after a family visit left an impression. Throughout the month of July, Andrew's Pro Clean will donate ten...

INTEGRATED ACCESS - Waseca County commissioners (from left) Brad Milbrath, Brian Harguth, Brad Krause, De Malterer, and Doug Christopherson greeted visitors and answered questions about the planned new county justice center during two open house sessions on Tuesday, June 30. Also greeting visitors was Minnesota House District 19B Representative Tom Sexton, who has helped support the project in numerous ways. Pioneer photo by Deb Bently

Open house offers an open book on new justice center

Traffic was light for the two open house sessions at the Waseca County Courthouse Annex on June 30 when county commissioners, the county sheriff, facilities director Brian Tomford and county administrator Michael Johnson stood ready to supply information and answer questions about the $28 million...