As human beings, we don’t spend much time hanging upside down. However, a growing number of Americans are finding themselves exactly in this position when they arrive at a dealership looking to buy a new car.

They’re upside down on their car loan.

Upside-down car loans, or negative equity, happen when consumers owe more on their vehicle than its actual value. It’s becoming a common occurrence for owners looking to trade in their car for a new one.

First District Association and Ideal Lumber recently reached agreement on a deal that will see the dairy processing cooperative purchase about half of the lumber company's property Litchfield.

"This is one of those things where the intent is to work together,” First District CEO Clint Fall said. “This gives First District and its members the opportunity to look long-term.”

Swedish retailer Ikea announced plans in February 2007 to begin charging customers 5 cents per plastic bag in an effort to encourage people to bring home their goods in reusable bags and cut down on plastic waste.

While charging people for plastic bags has yet to become common practice, Minnesota lawmakers are considering a law that would require retailers to make plastic bag recycling more convenient.

If you’re looking for someone to help you get clean, quality water running through your house’s pipes, Dan the Water Man can.

Dan Puckett proudly embraces his self-given moniker as he talks about the water systems he hopes to see in homes and businesses throughout West Central Minnesota.

Puckett recently opened a Kinetico branch in Litchfield at the corner of North Sibley Avenue and Fifth Street. The business sells high-quality water softeners and filtration systems for residential and commercial use.

Have you always wondered what you wanted to be when you grew up?  Discover what occupations correspond with your work interests. The Litchfield WorkForce Center is offering a free workshop, Assessing Your Work Interests, 9:30 to 11 a.m. Feb. 14 at the Litchfield WorkForce Center, 114 Holcombe Ave N., Suite 170, Litchfield. All workshops are open to the public. For more information, call Nichole at (320) 693-2859.

Minnesotans tend to think they’re “above average” in just about every way, including their health care.

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away...a droid, known as C-3PO, was crafted into being.

For the cost of a combo meal at your favorite fast food joint, you could provide a local youth basketball team with new uniforms or give a graduating senior a much needed scholarship.