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https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/03/schwab-retires-after-13-years-as-judge-in-freeborn-county/ | Schwab retires after 13 years as judge in Freeborn County
Published 5:17 pm Thursday, March 31, 2022
Freeborn County District Court Judge Steve Schwab retired from his position Thursday after 13 years as a district court judge.
Before being sworn-in as a judge on Sept. 1, 2008, Schwab had served as Albert Lea city attorney since 1989.
Though judges can serve in their roles until they are 70, he said he turned 65 in March and thought after 33 years combined in both of his positions, that it was time to retire.
Though he will not be working cases full-time anymore, he said he plans to sign up for senior judge work, and will be back in court potentially this fall to help as needed throughout the district.
Senior judges typically are called on to help when sitting judges are on vacation and more recently have been called to help with the backlog of cases in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic, he said. He anticipated helping more with family law cases, orders for protection, harassment restraining orders and Child in Need of Protection or Services cases, and not as many criminal cases.
Over his 13 years as a judge, Schwab said he enjoyed the variety and type of work he saw on a daily basis, estimating he oversaw about 70 cases a week.
“The variety of work is just amazing,” he said. “When you deal with that many cases a week, you see a lot of different things.”
Schwab, of Albert Lea, said leaving the position, he will remember some of the challenging and emotional criminal trials he has been a part of, where even jurors were crying.
“It’s tough to go home and just walk away from it,” he said. “It’s life-changing decisions for a lot of different people — both the people being prosecuted and the victims and the victims’ families.”
He said judges are taught early on how to deal with stress, how to set aside their jobs at the end of the workday instead of bringing them home with them, and the importance of having other outside interests.
Though he said he hates to leave work at the Freeborn County courthouse, he thinks his successor, Christy Hormann, is going to do a great job.
“I think the Freeborn County people will be glad she’s here. It will be almost seamless.”
Hormann, who will be the first-ever female judge in the county, is slated to be sworn-in on April 8 and then will serve her first day on the bench May 2.
Schwab said he also looked forward to traveling with his significant other, Kristen, and seeing the country. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/couple-turns-farm-hobby-into-business/ | Couple turns farm hobby into business
Published 10:05 am Friday, April 1, 2022
What started out as a hobby became so much more for Anna Ackelson, one of the owners of J&A Cattle Co., along with her husband, Jessie.
“We started feeding out beef eight years ago as a hobby at first,” Ackelson said. “We’ve been around livestock all of our lives.”
Jessie had grown up on a farm and hauled livestock for years, while Anna’s dad enjoyed feeding out cattle. In fact, four generation’s of Anna’s family has done business with Conger Meat Market, which is where they process beef.
“For us we’re just naturally outdoor people that enjoy providing something for the community that some can’t,” she said.
And then three years ago they decided to turn it into a business.
“We have known a lot of people in the beef industry around here,” she said. “And [Jessie’s] from southern Iowa in beef, cattle country. It was kind of our life and part of our nature being part of the rodeo world.”
So now the two raise hormone- and antibiotic-free beef cattle, a process that takes roughly 14 months.
But following the onset of COVID-19, the company grew as customers wanted more local products.
“I have seen in the last three years that our local area has really started to support local farmers instead of just buying from the grocery store, which has been very nice,” she said.
The process of running a farm has taught her there was never an easy way out when it came to raising cattle.
“There’s always more work to do,” she said.
According to Ackelson, people didn’t necessarily know the process and work it takes to raise cattle or feed them out.
“Then they’re really surprised that our price-point is what it is,” she said.
Ackelson said a typical day starts at 3:30 a.m., when Jessie gets up to feed cattle from two different lots.
“We have to have a variety of sizes standing around at all times,” she said. “That also means different feed rations.”
And while Anna is getting their daughter ready for day care and then working at a salon, Jessie works as a truck driver.
“Throughout the day I’m messaging people, talking to people … [and] answering questions about beef,” she said.
In the evening, it’s time to feed the cattle again.
But for her, the longer hours are worth it.
“Seeing our daughter out enjoying learning how to work hard for what you earn, and it does pay off in the end,” she said.
Starting last fall, J&A Cattle Co. began selling individual cuts of meat off the farm.
J&A Cattle Co. is just outside of Emmons, and you can order from their website (https://www.ja-cattlecompany.com) or on their Facebook page. You can also call them directly at 507-402-0319 to arrange order and pick-up.
Currently J&A Cattle Co. does monthly beef subscriptions, which provide discounts off retail prices in smaller bundles. They also started shipping beef, with a goal of selling in all 48 of the contiguous states by the end of the summer.
“We also do weekly beef bundles, so it’s just a little bit more of a discount,” she said.
J&A Cattle Co. is currently 14 acres big, though Anna said the company is buying another piece of land in Joice. The hope is to buy younger calves and feed them on grass earlier to transition them to corn and hay. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/judge-rules-alleged-shady-oaks-shooter-competent-to-stand-trial/ | Judge rules alleged Shady Oaks shooter competent to stand trial
Published 10:06 am Friday, April 1, 2022
A Freeborn County District Court judge on Thursday found the man charged in the shooting at Shady Oaks apartments in November 2020 competent to stand trial.
The order, from District Court Judge Steve Schwab, came after evaluations of Devin Michael Weiland by two psychologists, Tricia Aiken and George Komaridis, who filed conflicting reports.
Weiland faces three counts of attempted first-degree murder and three counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon for allegedly shooting three people in an eight-hour standoff at the apartment complex.
Aiken said she did not see “obvious indications of current psychosis, mania or cognitive impairment that would impede (Weiland’s) ability to go to court, work with his attorney and make decisions in his case” and argued that Weiland was attempting to avoid criminal prosecution by malingering — or exaggerating — his mental health symptoms to be sent to a hospital instead of prison.
Komaridis, conversely, stated that based on “Weiland’s responses to inquiries about his knowledge of court proceedings and his awareness of the role his attorneys play in his defense, as well as his lack of desire to participate in his defense, it is my opinion that Mr. Weiland is not competent to proceed to trial at this time,” Schwab wrote.
During a court hearing last month, Komaridis said he thought Weiland was “sticking his head in the sand” when it came to participating in his defense with his counsel and said he thinks Weiland doesn’t want to face the consequences of his actions and so is not motivated to participate in his defense. The psychologist ultimately suggested Weiland be placed in a long-term program, such as a restoration competency program, so a better educated decision could be made about his competency.
Weiland has received several diagnoses, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, alcohol use disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder, among others.
Schwab in his analysis said he found the testimony of Aiken to be more credible than that of Komaridis. The judge said Aiken testified Weiland was able to recall his social history in evaluations with Aiken but when discussing his charges, he would act as though he did not understand what she was talking about.
“The fact that he could give an accurate social history shows that he can track a conversation and follow what someone is saying,” the judge said. “This shows that defendant is competent and is merely choosing to decline to consult with counsel and participate in his defense, not that he is unable to.”
He said Weiland was likely malingering — or exaggerating — his symptoms of mental illness in conversations with both Aiken and Komaridis, and while Komaridis pointed out that malingering by itself does not automatically equal competency, “it does show that the defendant is aware and understands the severity of his actions and the potential severity of his consequences.”
“That understanding would point towards competency,” the judge continued. “If defendant has the competency to malinger, he likely has the competency to rationally consult with legal counsel, understand the proceedings, and participate in his defense.”
Schwab said he was concerned Komaridis did not testify with certainty that Weiland was incompetent but stated his opinion was “merely an educated guess and that he believed that nobody could know the defendant’s mental capacity for certain.” That was in contrast with Aiken, who conclusively answered that she believes Weiland is competent to stand trial.
“Just because he does not want to consult with counsel does not mean that he is unable to do so because of a mental illness,” Schwab said. “Because the court believes that the defendant can consult with counsel and participate in his defense and is merely choosing not to do so, the court believes the defendant is competent to stand trial.”
Court documents state investigators estimate Weiland reportedly fired 90 rounds during the eight-hour standoff at the apartment complex Nov. 29, 2020.
Prosecutors have said he summoned law enforcement to the apartment complex that morning at 2:18 a.m. for a report of fireworks or gunshots in the area. When the first officer arrived, Weiland began firing shots out the window from his apartment on the third floor, striking that officer in the chest with a rifle. Two others were later injured, including one resident who left the building because he was concerned about his vehicle, and a second, who lived across the street and left in his car to drive to work.
Weiland’s next hearing has not yet been scheduled. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/minnesota-lawmakers-reach-deal-to-extend-reinsurance-program/ | Minnesota lawmakers reach deal to extend reinsurance program
Published 5:45 am Friday, April 1, 2022
ST. PAUL — Legislative leaders announced a bipartisan deal Thursday to extend Minnesota’s health care reinsurance program, beating a deadline by one day in a move to hold down premiums for residents who buy their health insurance on the individual market.
The $700 million deal agreed to late Wednesday authorizes an extension of the program for five years, but funds it for only three years. Republicans reached a compromise with Democrats who have never liked the five-year-old program. They see it as an expensive giveaway to insurance companies that doesn’t solve bigger issues over the costs of health care and prescription drugs.
Premiums would have gone up by “a minimum of 20-25%” this fall without a deal by Friday, said Sen. Gary Dahms, of Redwood Falls, the lead Republican negotiator. The agreement was a condition for getting a required waiver from the federal government under the rules of the Affordable Care Act to continue the program.
The agreement affects about 167,000 Minnesotans who get their coverage in the individual marketplace, whether it’s via the state-run MNsure exchange or directly from carriers. That includes many small businesses, farmers, independent contractors and other self-employed people.
“This really is a good example of Democrats in the House and Republicans in the Senate working together with the administration on a compromise agreement,” Republican Senate Majority Leader Jeremy Miller, of Winona, told reporters.
Miller said floor votes were expected later Thursday to send the bill to Democratic Gov. Tim Walz for his expected signature.
The lead Democratic negotiator, Rep. Zack Stephenson, of Champlin, said the House still would rather tackle health care affordability with a “public option” for people to buy into a government-run health plan, such as the existing MinnesotaCare program for the working poor.
But Stephenson conceded at a conference committee meeting that the compromise will mean “very significant savings” to consumers in the individual marketplace. For many, he added, “it’s the difference between affordable health care and unaffordable health care.”
In return, he said, Democrats got provisions to let patients with high deductibles spread out their drug copayments instead of struggling to pay them all early in the year, and more coverage for maternal health. But they didn’t get the studies they sought to find alternatives to reinsurance.
Rep. Tina Liebling, of Rochester, told the panel she couldn’t support the deal, saying she and many of her House Democratic colleagues “consider reinsurance to be basically a bridge to nowhere. And we keep extending the bridge, and it’s still a bridge to nowhere.”
Reinsurance was the third major bipartisan compromise for the divided Legislature this year, following a $25 million bill that Walz signed Wednesday to fund research on the neurological disease ALS and a bill awaiting his signature to divest state government from Russia over its war in Ukraine.
But deals remain elusive on averting an unemployment insurance tax increase on businesses, which Democrats have made contingent on “hero pay” for frontline workers who put themselves at risk in the pandemic, and on what to do with the bulk of the state’s $9.25 billion budget surplus. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/report-criticizes-response-to-unrest-after-floyds-killing/ | Report criticizes response to unrest after Floyd’s killing
Published 5:47 am Friday, April 1, 2022
MINNEAPOLIS — An external review of Minnesota’s response to days of civil unrest following the May 2020 killing of George Floyd found several problems, including a lack of clear leadership early on as businesses were being destroyed and set ablaze, and a failure to discern peaceful from unlawful protesters.
The report by Wilder Research, commissioned by the Department of Public Safety and made public Thursday, said the state set up a multi-agency command center too late – four days after Floyd was killed. And the center had a “chaotic beginning,” with no clear chain of command, while the city of Minneapolis continued to operate it’s own emergency operations center with competing law enforcement strategies, the report said.
Floyd, who was Black, was killed May 25, 2020, when former Minneapolis Officer Derek Chauvin pressed his knee against Floyd’s neck for about nine and a half minutes as Floyd was handcuffed and lying facedown on the pavement. Bystander video showed Floyd said multiple times that he couldn’t breathe, before he eventually went silent and stopped moving.
The killing sparked protests in Minneapolis and around the globe as part of a reckoning over racial injustice. In Minneapolis, some of the protests became violent as businesses, and even a police station, were ransacked and burned.
The report said the unrest was unplanned and left local and state agencies overextended.
Local police and emergency responders couldn’t respond to many calls for help. Several state agencies, as well as the National Guard, were called in — but the report said they were not experienced in handling large-scale civil disturbances over such an extended period, and the National Guard was mobilized too late.
The report found that several local agencies were following different rules of engagement. There was also a lack of communication, leading some communities and businesses to feel they weren’t being protected and to take matters into their own hands. Some viewed the law enforcement response as escalating.
It also noted some strengths. Among them, it found officials held numerous, informative press conferences, and the state acknowledged that the community had legitimate concerns after Floyd’s killing. It also noted that small mobile field force units were effective in addressing unrest in multiple locations. The report said that a curfew, when enforced, was also effective.
The report, which examined the state’s actions from May 26 through June 7, 2020, listed 20 recommendations to improve the state’s response and find ways to prevent such civil unrest from happening again.
One of the recommendations is to set up a command center quickly – and set up a clear chain of command. Another is to avoid escalating situations — by keeping riot gear prepared, but out of sight unless law enforcement officers are under imminent threat.
The report said Minnesota can do more to address tensions between law enforcement and communities, and must incorporate a “deeper sense of humanity” — particularly for Black Minnesotans — in the way it responds to civil unrest in the future.
It said numerous community members and business owners said racism and discrimination against Black Minneapolis residents, specifically racist practices by the Minneapolis Police Department, contributed to the unrest.
“Further research and evaluation are needed to understand the role of racism and other forms of bias in law enforcement responses to civil unrest and determine additional steps to address community distrust in law enforcement and state government,” the report found.
One key recommendation to prevent future unrest was for the state to lead efforts to reimagine policing and community safety and to engage communities in law enforcement oversight and accountability.
Public Safety Commissioner John Harrington said in a letter to Gov. Tim Walz, dated Wednesday, that the unrest was “unexpected and unprecedented.” He said his agency has already made changes to improve communication and police accountability, and some of the report’s recommendations have been implemented.
Harrington also urged the passage of $300 million for public safety funding for local governments, saying the money could be used to address some of the issues raised in the report, including investing in community policing models and efforts to create diverse police forces.
Walz spokesman Teddy Tschann said it is “imperative” that lawmakers approve the funding as part of the governor’s comprehensive public safety plan. Tschann said Walz has reviewed the recommendations outlined in the report as well as a progress report from Harrington and he and state leaders “will take a close look at the findings and use them to help inform future work.”
A report issued earlier this month on the city’s response to the Minneapolis protests was sharply critical and included several recommendations, including improving police training on crowd control tactics. City spokeswoman Sarah McKenzie said city leaders are focused on implementing recommendations from that report, and they are reviewing Thursday’s report.
Chauvin was convicted of murder and manslaughter and also pleaded guilty in federal court to violating Floyd’s civil rights. Three other former officers were also convicted of federal civil rights violations and are awaiting trial on state charges of aiding and abetting both murder and manslaughter. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/russians-leave-chernobyl-ukraine-braces-for-renewed-attacks/ | Russians leave Chernobyl; Ukraine braces for renewed attacks
Published 5:52 am Friday, April 1, 2022
KYIV, Ukraine — Russian troops left the heavily contaminated Chernobyl nuclear site early Friday after returning control to the Ukrainians, authorities said, as residents in parts of eastern Ukraine braced for renewed attacks and awaited blocked supplies of food and other humanitarian relief.
Ukraine’s state power company, Energoatom, said the pullout at Chernobyl came after soldiers received “significant doses” of radiation from digging trenches in the forest in the exclusion zone around the closed plant. The International Atomic Energy Agency said it could not independently confirm the exposure claim.
In what would be the first attack of its kind, if confirmed, the governor of Russia’s Belgorod region accused Ukraine of flying helicopter gunships across the border on Friday morning and striking an oil depot.
The depot run by Russian energy giant Rosneft is located about 35 kilometers (21 miles) north of the Ukraine-Russia border. The helicopter attack set the facility ablaze, and two people were injured, according to a Telegram post by Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov.
“The fire at the oil depot occurred as a result of an airstrike from two helicopters of the armed forces of Ukraine, which entered the territory of Russia at a low altitude,” the governor wrote on the messaging app.
It was not immediately possible to verify the claim or images that were circulating on social media of the alleged attack. Russia has reported shelling from Ukraine before, including an incident last week that killed a military chaplain, but not an incursion of its airspace.
Elsewhere, Ukrainian forces have retaken the villages of Sloboda and Lukashivka, which are south of the besieged northern city of Chernihiv and located along one of the main supply routes between the city and Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, according to Britain’s Defense Ministry.
Ukraine has also continued to make successful but limited counterattacks to the east and northeast of Kyiv, the ministry said.
Russian forces have subjected both Chernihiv and Kyiv to continued air and ground-launched missile strikes despite Moscow officials saying Tuesday they planned to reduce military activity in those areas.
Western officials said there were growing indications Russia was using its talk of de-escalation in Ukraine as cover to regroup, resupply its forces and redeploy them for a stepped-up offensive in the eastern part of the country.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that Russian withdrawals from the north and center of the country were just a military tactic to build up strength for new attacks in the southeast.
“We know their intentions,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address to the nation. “We know that they are moving away from those areas where we hit them in order to focus on other, very important ones where it may be difficult for us.”
“There will be battles ahead,” he added.
Ukrainian and Russian negotiators planned to resume talks via video on Friday, five weeks into a conflict that has left thousands dead and driven more than 4 million refugees from Ukraine. There seemed little faith that the two sides would find agreement on their respective demands any time soon.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said conditions weren’t yet “ripe” for a cease-fire and he wasn’t ready for a meeting with Zelenskyy until the negotiators do more work, Italian Premier Mario Draghi said after a Thursday telephone conversation with the Russian leader.
Following a plea from Zelenskyy when he addressed Australian Parliament on Thursday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that his country would send mine-resistant armored personnel carriers to Ukraine.
He said Friday the four-wheel drive Bushmaster vehicles, specifically requested by Zelenskyy, would be flown to Europe but did not say how many would be delivered or when.
“We’re not just sending our prayers, we are sending our guns, we’re sending our munitions, we’re sending our humanitarian aid, we’re sending all of this, our body armor, all of these things, and we’re going to be sending our armored vehicles, our Bushmasters, as well,” Morrison said.
In the encircled strategic port city of Mariupol, Russian forces on Thursday blocked a convoy of 45 buses attempting to evacuate people after the Russian military agreed to a limited cease-fire in the area. Only 631 people were able to get out of the city in private cars, according to the Ukrainian government.
Russian forces also seized 14 tons of food and medical supplies in a dozen buses that were trying to make it to Mariupol, Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said.
The city has been the scene of some of the worst suffering of the war. Tens of thousands of residents managed to get out in the past few weeks by way of humanitarian corridors, reducing the population from a prewar 430,000 to an estimated 100,000 by last week. But continued Russian attacks have repeatedly thwarted aid and evacuation convoys.
The International Atomic Energy Agency said it had been informed by Ukraine that the Russians forces at Chernobyl had transferred control of the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster to the Ukrainians in writing. The last Russian troops left Chernobyl early Friday, the Ukrainian government agency responsible for the exclusion zone said.
Energoatom gave no details on the condition of the soldiers it said were exposed to radiation and did not say how many were affected. There was no immediate comment from the Kremlin, and the IAEA said it was seeking more information.
Russian forces seized the Chernobyl site in the opening stages of the Feb. 24 invasion, raising fears that they would cause damage or disruption that could spread radiation. The workforce at the site oversees the safe storage of spent fuel rods and the concrete-entombed ruins of the reactor that exploded in 1986.
Edwin Lyman, a nuclear expert with the U.S.-based Union of Concerned Scientists, said it “seems unlikely” a large number of troops would develop severe radiation illness, but it was impossible to know for sure without more details.
IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi was in the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad on Friday for talks with senior officials there about nuclear issues in Ukraine.
In addition to concerns about Chernobyl, nine of Ukraine’s 15 operational reactors are currently in use, including two at the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhya facility, the IAEA said.
Early this week, the Russians said they would significantly scale back military operations in areas around Kyiv and the northern city of Chernihiv to increase trust between the two sides and help negotiations along.
But in the Kyiv suburbs, regional governor Oleksandr Palviuk said on social media Thursday that Russian forces shelled Irpin and Makariv and that there were battles around Hostomel. Pavliuk said there were Ukrainian counterattacks and some Russian withdrawals around the suburb of Brovary to the east.
At a Ukrainian military checkpoint outside Kyiv, soldiers and officers said they don’t believe Russian forces have given up on the capital.
“What does it mean, significantly scaling down combat actions in the Kyiv and Chernihiv areas?” asked Brig. Gen. Valeriy Embakov. “Does it mean there will be 100 missiles instead of 200 missiles launched on Kyiv or something else?”
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said intelligence indicates Russia is not scaling back its military operations in Ukraine but is instead trying to regroup, resupply its forces and reinforce its offensive in the Donbas.
“Russia has repeatedly lied about its intentions,” Stoltenberg said. At the same time, he said, pressure is being kept up on Kyiv and other cities, and “we can expect additional offensive actions bringing even more suffering.”
The Donbas is the predominantly Russian-speaking industrial region where Moscow-backed separatists have been battling Ukrainian forces since 2014. In the past few days, the Kremlin, in a seeming shift in its war aims, said that its “main goal” now is gaining control of the Donbas, which consists of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, including Mariupol. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/1-arrested-on-warrant-fifth-degree-possession/ | 1 arrested on warrant, fifth-degree possession
Published 10:21 am Friday, April 1, 2022
Police arrested Juan Manuel Bueno Guzman, 27, on a local warrant and fifth-degree possession at 5:49 p.m. Thursday near the intersection of East Main Street and St. Peter Avenue.
Juveniles cited for e-cigarettes, marijuana
Police cited one juvenile for possession of an e-cigarette on school property at 9:28 a.m. Thursday at 2000 Tiger Lane. A second juvenile was cited at 11:22 a.m. Thursday, and a third was cited at 2:53 p.m.
Police cited one juvenile for possession of a small amount of marijuana at 9:44 a.m. Thursday at 2000 Tiger Lane.
Chair taken
A chair was reported taken at 4:17 p.m. Thursday at 221 E. Clark St. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/verona-pauline-thorson/ | Verona Pauline Thorson
Published 12:42 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Verona Pauline Thorson, age 99, of Albert Lea, passed away on March 30, 2022.
She was born on July 13, 1922, to Ole and Amanda Iverson in Freeborn County, the youngest of 9 children.
Verona was an avid gardener and animal lover. Living on a hobby farm allowed her to spend many hours with her beloved horses and cats. In their retirement years, she and Warren enjoyed frequent sightseeing road trips which included agate hunting and antiquing.
Throughout her life she held an unwavering faith in God and was known for advising friends and family with burdens to “Put it on God’s shelf.”
Verona is survived by her children, Larry Olson, Katherine Sipple, Gary (Chris) Thorson and Jean Dick; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Ole and Amanda Iverson; husbands, Donald Olson and Warren Thorson; 5 sisters, and 3 brothers; stepson, Alan; grandsons, Jay and Tony; sons-in-law, Toby and Ronnie; and daughter-in-law, Judy.
Funeral Service 11 am, Saturday, April 2, 2022, at East Freeborn Church, Albert Lea, MN with visitation beginning at 10 AM. Interment will be at East Freeborn Cemetery. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/work-underway-to-repair-jacobson-building-downtown/ | Work underway to repair Jacobson building downtown
Published 10:16 am Friday, April 1, 2022
The first step to repair the facade of the Jacobson Apartments building in downtown Albert Lea kicked off this week.
City building official Wayne Sorensen said crews with Advanced Masonry Restoration out of St. Paul removed about 10 pieces from off of the building, which will be sent to terra cotta company Gladding McBean in California.
The building, between the former Freeborn National Bank building on the north and Stadheim Jewelers on the south, has cracks developing on mortar joints and terra cotta blocks that are cracking. A few have also fallen off of the structure.
Sorensen said the architect initially identified 72 individual blocks that need to be replaced on the building, and out of those pieces there were about seven or eight different designs.
Artists with Gladding McBean will duplicate the blocks, and then each block could take several months to dry before being glazed to match the existing building.
Gladding McBean is one of three companies in the whole country that makes high-quality architectural terra cotta, according to its website.
The Albert Lea City Council in February approved a contract for $301,500 with Advanced Masonry Restoration for the project. City Manager Ian Rigg at that time said the estimated total cost, however, will be closer to $500,000 when adding in engineering, architects and the cost of repairing more than anticipated units. The city had budgeted $600,000 for the repairs and has received a state grant for up to about $276,000.
Sorensen said it is expected to take up to six months for all of the new blocks to be made. While there is a possibility the pieces will be done and placed this fall, the project could run into the spring.
In the meantime, while all of the work to duplicate the blocks takes place in California, residents should not expect to see much happening locally.
In addition to replacing the damaged terra cotta blocks with new blocks when the time comes, crews will replace the steel supports on the building that are underneath the blocks.
Sorensen said the large lift should be gone from in front of the building on Monday or Tuesday. At least one layer of scaffolding will remain in front of the building as a precautionary measure.
The city in 2006 replaced the windows on the building as well as roofs on both the Jacobson building and the Freeborn National Bank building next door. At that time, the terra cotta was repaired on the bank building, he said. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/charges-teen-was-playing-with-gun-when-he-shot-girl-15/ | Charges: Teen was playing with gun when he shot girl, 15
Published 3:58 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS — A 16-year-old boy was swinging a gun around and pointing it at several teenagers in a Columbia Heights apartment when he fatally shot a 15-year-old girl, according to charges filed Thursday.
The Minneapolis teen was charged in juvenile court with second-degree manslaughter in connection with March 24 shooting of Derryanna Davis of Columbia Heights.
Prosecutors say authorities got a 911 call about gunfire piercing an exterior wall of an apartment. They arrived to find Davis dead, with a gunshot wound to her left side.
Investigators found a gun and determined the shot was fired from inside the apartment. Anoka County Sheriff’s deputies also determined there were eight teenagers in the apartment at the time of the shooting, and they fled after the shot was fired.
Several of the teens said the boy “was playing with the gun, swinging it around and pointing it at the group,” the charges said. But some said he was pointing the gun only at the girl. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/coast-guard-cutter-arrives-at-new-home-port-in-minnesota/ | Coast Guard cutter arrives at new home port in Minnesota
Published 3:59 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
DULUTH — The U.S. Coast Guard cutter Spar has arrived at its new home port in Minnesota after undergoing a year of maintenance.
The arrival Wednesday in Duluth comes as members of Congress are pushing for another heavy icebreaker on the Great Lakes. Spar, built in Marinette, Wisconsin, replaces Alder, which left the port last summer for maintenance.
Spar will break up ice for vessels on Lake Superior and northern Lake Michigan.
On its journey following maintenance in Baltimore, Lt. Cmdr. Joel Wright said his crew encountered thick ice in Whitefish Bay on Lake Superior after passing through the Soo Locks at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, as well as ships stuck in ice.
Ice cover on Lake Superior reached its peak in mid-March when nearly 80% of the lake was frozen. Now, just under 40% of the lake is covered in ice. Even so, ice has slowed the movement of vessels following the start of the shipping season on Friday when the Soo Locks opened, Wisconsin Public Radio reported.
“There have been a number of ships that have been trying to cross Lake Superior that have been caught up in the ice and needing a lot of assistance from the Coast Guard, so it definitely is not a good thing when it comes to a business where time is money,” said Jayson Hron, communications director with the Duluth Seaway Port Authority.
The economic impact of delayed shipments moving between the lower and upper lakes is why Eric Peace, vice president of the Lake Carriers’ Association, and others are lobbying for more icebreakers to add to its fleet of nine on the Great Lakes. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/lavonne-m-christenson/ | Lavonne M. Christenson
Published 3:52 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Lavonne M. Christenson, 89 passed away surrounded by the love of her family and prayers at Thorne Crest Health Care in Albert Lea on Friday, March 25, 2022.
Lavonne Marion and her twin sister Lorraine were born in December 1932 at Naeve Hospital in Albert Lea, MN to Myrtle (Peterson) and Herbert Christensen. She was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church. She attended Albert Lea Public Schools and graduated from Albert Lea Senior High School in 1950. She met the love of her life Harold “Billy” Christenson. They were engaged before he was deployed to Korea in 1951. He returned in the summer of 1952 and the pair married at First Lutheran Church on July 6, 1952. She only had to change one letter of her maiden name. They had nearly 70 years of marriage and had 4 children: Debra, Jodi, Gina, and Thomas.
As a teen and young woman, Lavonne worked at a soda fountain and as a Switch Board Operator at Queen’s Stove. After her children were older, Lavonne was a beauty advisor for Vanda Beauty Counselor, worked at the American Legion Post 56 as a waitress, as a secretary at the YMCA and later for the Section 8 Program at the Housing Authority (HUD). She was also a volunteer for Child Fund International and the American Cancer Society. Before retirement. Lavonne worked at Hunter and Associates Xerox office in downtown Albert Lea.
Lavonne was a wonderful homemaker making the best hotdishes, baked goods and home canning. She took pride in her home and always had flowers and roses outside. She was part of a 500 Card Club for several decades where her and her friends would host a monthly game in their homes. She loved playing Bingo with her mom, Myrt, trips to Las Vegas with her family (she even won a new car in 1994), and trips to northern Minnesota, Hawaii, Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Michigan, California, and South Korea. Lavonne was a longtime member of the American Legion Post 56 Ladies Auxiliary.
Lavonne’s family was her pride and joy and she never wanted to miss a single family moment. She is survived by her husband Bill; children: Jodi Overlee, Gina Posivio, Tom (Kimm) Christenson, and son-in-law, Jimmy Delgado; her nine grandchildren, and 8 great-great grandchildren. Loved ones that cleared the way were her daughter Debbie; parents, Myrt and Kenny; her sister, Lorraine; brother, Gerald; and son-in-law, Kevin. Her love and legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone she touched.
Services have taken place. A recording of the service can be found on Lavonne’s obituary page on www.bonnerupfuneralservice.com. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/minnesota-senate-passes-agriculture-relief-bill/ | Minnesota Senate passes agriculture relief bill
Published 3:57 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
By Tim Pugmire, Minnesota Public Radio News
The Minnesota Senate unanimously passed legislation Thursday that provides financial relief to farmers who were hit hard by last summer’s drought.
The $10 million bill includes $7 million for grants of up to $5,000 for livestock and specialty crop farmers. There’s also money to reimburse the Rural Finance Authority for drought relief loans that have already been processed.
“The sooner we can get this through, the sooner we can get relief, a shot in the arm to our farmers that are having to scrape every week to figure out a way to get feed and forage for their livestock because of the shortage of supply last summer,” said Sen. Torrey Westrom, R-Elbow Lake, who is the chair of the Senate agriculture committee and the bill’s chief sponsor.
The bill also includes money for avian influenza testing and other emerging animal diseases. The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at the University of Minnesota would receive $1 million.
Sen. Nick Frentz, DFL-North Mankato, said Minnesota needs to be ready for future challenges.
“This is the kind of money that we spend to prepare so things are not a lot worse,” Frentz said.
Lawmakers began discussing drought relief last summer for a special session that never materialized.
The House passed a drought-relief measure earlier this month.
Lawmakers in the House will need to decide whether to accept the Senate version or go to a conference committee. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/minnesotas-energy-assistance-crisis-benefit-increases-to-3000-per-household-to-help-pay-utility-bills/ | Minnesota’s Energy Assistance crisis benefit increases to $3,000 per household to help pay utility bills
Published 4:49 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
The Minnesota Department of Commerce has raised the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program crisis benefit per household. Income-qualified homeowners or renters can now receive up to $3,000 to pay past-due energy bills, to prevent energy disconnections and to cover costs for emergency fuel deliveries. The crisis benefit had been $1,200. This grant is in addition to up to $2,000 in non-crisis benefits that households can qualify for.
“We increased the crisis benefit to make energy costs more affordable for Minnesotans who have seen their energy bills rise significantly this winter,” said Michael Schmitz, director for the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program, which is administered by the Department of Commerce through a network of local community service providers. “If you are behind on your energy bill, you may qualify for up to $3,000 in help.
“The crisis benefits will be especially important for households heated by propane or heating oils, who have seen their heating costs increase on average from $1,500 to $2,500 per household. Minnesotans who use propane or heating oils can apply for the Energy Assistance Program to refill their tanks.”
Energy Assistance funding is available for thousands more Minnesotans and is open for applications through May 31. Minnesota received more than $167 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds in 2021 for the Energy Assistance Program, which more than doubled the annual amount.
With one application to the Energy Assistance Program, households may also qualify for water bill assistance and for the Weatherization Assistance Program, which can permanently reduce household energy costs. Commerce is asking the Minnesota Legislature to fund up to 15,000 more Minnesotans for the Weatherization Assistance Program, to reduce energy costs long-term for those homes and reduce the state’s overall energy infrastructure needs.
To request an application or find your local service provider, do the following:
Search online for “Minnesota energy assistance”
Go online: gov/energyassistance
Call 800-657-3710 and press 1 | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/patricia-weldon/ | Patricia Weldon
Published 3:53 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Dec. 7, 2955 – March 27, 2022
BROWNSDALE, Minn. – Patricia Weldon, 66, Brownsdale, Minn., died Sunday, March 27, in her home from cancer.
A celebration of life will be from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, July 31, at Izaak Walton Cabin in Austin, Minn. Memorials are preferred to Rachel’s Hope. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/school-staff-working-with-families-class-of-2022-to-honor-deceased-students/ | School staff working with families, class of 2022 to honor deceased students
Published 3:54 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Albert Lea High School Principal Chris Dibble said Friday staff are working with families of the three students who died in recent years but would have graduated in 2022 to figure out how to recognize their loved ones in upcoming commencement events at the school.
Dibble said staff have met with one family and reached out to the two other families of the students who died.
“We are also in daily contact with representatives from the class of 2022 to find the most appropriate ways to commemorate the students who have been lost,” Dibble said in an email to the Tribune. “As a district, we have always found ways to recognize deceased students at important events such as commencement.”
Dibble’s statements were in response to a Tuesday afternoon Facebook post that became widespread about students at Albert Lea High School asking for help from parents of students attending the school. The students claimed Dibble denied the students the opportunity to honor their deceased classmates in the upcoming graduation ceremony.
The post read: “As many of you know we are still grieving over the losses of our peers at our school and we are simply asking of three chairs for the 2021-2022 class of ’22 commencement in memory of those three students whom we grew up with and still hold deeply and close in our hearts.
“When asked if that could be a possibility our [Principal Chris Dibble] said something around the lines ’those students are no longer a part of our school, they are diseased.’ [sic]
“Is it really too much to ask for to have three additional chairs in memory of those three loved students?”
Dibble said any message passed along that he or any member of the administrative team had denied students a chance to remember and celebrate members of the class was not true.
In an email sent to staff Tuesday night, Dibble said that until that point no members of the senior class or high school staff had brought up a plan to honor students but that a plan would be forthcoming. He also said no yearbook section about students who would have graduated in 2022 but had died was ever brought to the administration for approval. Furthermore, he said no students who had submitted photos towards a senior display outside of the media center were left out.
“With the large number of mixed messages that have been sent, the strong emotional reaction is completely understandable,” he said. “We are working to come up with a plan to meet the needs of all of our students.”
The principal said he also appeared on the five-minute “Pawz,” the daily student-run news video, explaining to students what was happening.
He apologized to the students for any misunderstandings there may have been and said he looked forward to working with the class of 2022 and the entire school to honor the students in a way they think it should be done.
Albert Lea Area Schools had released an earlier statement Tuesday afternoon:
“Concerns have been expressed regarding a potential memorial for students that have passed from the graduating class of 2022.
“Historically, Albert Lea Area Schools has done some form of recognition for deceased students. We are currently in the process of trying to determine the best way to move forward. We will be reaching out to families to gather input as we develop plans.
Milestones in life, such as school graduations, are times when memories of those who died and are not there can be triggered. Commemorating the students of our school community who have died helps everyone process the devastating loss and assure that the person will not be forgotten.” | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/valerie-seipp/ | Valerie Seipp
Published 3:53 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Valerie K. Seipp, age 65, of Freeborn, MN died unexpectedly Wednesday March 30th, 2022 at her home. A public visitation will be held Saturday, April 9th, 2022 from 1:00-4:00 PM at Nasinec Funeral Home in Wells, MN (789 Business Park Drive Wells, MN). Burial will be at a later date. Nasinec Funeral Home in Wells is entrusted with arrangements. Please see www.nasinefh.com to leave online condolences.
Val was born November 18, 1956 in Wells, MN, the daughter of Roger and Marilyn (Reardon) Hedensten. She was a lifelong resident of Freeborn, MN and was baptized and confirmed at UCC Church of Freeborn. Val completed her education at Freeborn High School and graduated, the class of 1975. After high school Val worked for several local businesses including EF Johnson’s. In 1986 Val joined the Freeborn Fire Department and Ambulance as a firefighter and EMT. She worked with both up until the time of her death. Val was united in marriage to Steve Seipp September 19, 1998 in Freeborn. Val enjoyed baking, cross stitch, and attending sporting events for her grandchildren. She was employed for the last 15 years by Casey’s of Wells, MN.
Val is survived by her husband Steve Seipp of Freeborn, son Jason (Amy Schak) Hedensten of Faribault, daughters Stephanie (Josh) Claussen of Albert Lea, and Samantha Seipp of Freeborn; brothers Dale and Craig Hendesten of Freeborn; grandchildren: Rhoni, Josiah, Carsen, Cadence, Courtney, Allison and Logan; aunts Colleen Stenzel of Wells and Vernel Miller of Albert Lea, uncle Tom (Therese) Reardon of St. Louis Park, brothers-in-law Scott Seipp, and Danny Steele both of Alden along with many cousins and their families.
Val is preceded in death by her parents, in-laws: Verle and Marlene Seipp, sister-in-law Sue Steele and her aunts and uncles. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220401 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/2-new-covid-19-deaths-reported-in-the-area-4/ | 2 new COVID-19 deaths reported in the area
Published 7:01 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Two local residents have died from COVID-19 complications as of Thursday morning, one a Mower County resident between 45 and 49 and the other a Steele County person between 80 and 84.
Steele County reported 14 new cases of COVID-19, and another was listed as probable. So far 10,320 cases have been reported in the county, and 60 residents have died from coronavirus complications.
Mower County confirmed five new cases of COVID-19, and another two cases were listed as probable. The county has recorded 11,824 cases, 72 of them proving fatal.
Freeborn County recorded 13 confirmed cases and another listed as probable. The county has experienced 9,065 total cases, and 74 people in the county have died from COVID-19.
Among the new cases, one was found in a person 15 to 19, two were discovered in residents in their 20s, three were found in people in their 30s, four cases were discovered in people in their 60s and three cases were found in people in their 70s.
No deaths were reported and no one was sent to a hospital for care. There are 23 active lab-confirmed cases in the county.
Faribault County reported four new cases. That raises the county’s total number of cases to 3,760. Fifty area residents have died from the coronavirus.
Waseca County confirmed two new cases of COVID-19, and another was listed as probable. Waseca has experienced 5,481 total cases, and 39 Waseca County residents have died since the pandemic began.
Minnesota experienced 1,411 new cases, raising the state’s total number of cases to 1,430,089. Twenty people died of the coronavirus, increasing the state’s total number of fatalities to 12,410. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/accentra-sponsors-program-to-teach-financial-literacy-to-students-of-all-ages/ | Accentra sponsors program to teach financial literacy to students of all ages
Published 9:00 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
There’s more to a school education than math, science, English, social studies, history and physical education. Some people just starting life after graduation may not know anything about finances. And April is Financial Literacy Month.
Fortunately, Accentra Credit Union can help people before they start life in the real world with a class in financial literacy.
“Financial literacy is knowing what finances are and how to spend, save and manage money effectively, ”said Jenny Walker, marketing director for Accentra Credit Union. “Everyone has a financial situation — for some it’s not so good, and for others, it’s great. But everyone — everyone — has one.”
To help students, Accentra has sponsored Banzai, an interactive content platform that teaches students about finance and whose program aligns with state standards, since 2012.
And because one of the company’s values is community enrichment, they wanted to partner with Banzai.
“We’re committed to improving the financial literacy in our communities,” she said. “We have a responsibility as a credit union to the financial health of the communities we serve.”
There are currently four Banzai courses, each designed for students at different grades.
For example, she said the elementary school program was more of a game simulator where students learn to own and operate a lemonade stand and face real-world scenarios.
“It makes reading, math and critical thinking fun for these kids,” she said.
High schoolers, on the other hand, look at their spending habits, learn to maintain healthy credit, learn to qualify for a mortgage and utilize insurance.
“Everyone has a financial situation,” she said. “Financial literacy begins at a very early age.”
Walker described financial literacy as a process, where the goal is to master and apply new skills.
Accentra Credit Union is currently sponsoring 46 schools in southern Minnesota, including Albert Lea Area Learning Center, Southwest Middle School and Albert Lea High School.
“Any teacher in those schools can go in for free, sign up their students and utilize the Banzai program,” she said.
One hundred and six teachers and 7,720 students utilize Banzai, and any teacher at any grade-level is welcome to implement the program, which is open at any time.
If you are a teacher and would like to sign up, visit accentra.teachbanzai.com/. According to Walker, courses typically take anywhere from two to six hours to complete, and tests are automatically graded. Courses can be retaken to assess any changes different decisions could have.
“It’s been a great tool and I know a lot of teachers have utilized this through COVID when schools were shut down,” she said.
In a follow-up email, Walker said Accentra and Banzai wanted to educate and help people create healthy economic habits “so they can make confident financial decisions in every life stage.”
For members of the community who would like to visit their library of financial articles, access calculators and more, visit accentra.teachbanzai.com/wellness.
And because April is Financial Literacy month, Accentra Credit Union will be sharing financial articles, coaches and financial calculators on its Facebook page. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/across-the-pastors-desk-prayer-for-peace-in-time-of-war/ | Across the Pastor’s Desk: Prayer for peace in time of war
Published 8:00 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Across the Pastor’s Desk by Todd Walsh
I am sharing a prayer with you in this column. It comes from Dietrich Brauer, archbishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Russia. He wrote it and published it after the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February.
Dear brothers and sisters in Russia and Ukraine, peace be with you! Do not stop praying together for peace and opposition to evil. This is commanded to us by Christ. And may God keep us all in this difficult time in his faithful hands! Lord, have mercy on us sinners.
“Peace”
“Peace, as his precious covenant,
The Lord bequeathed to us to keep.
He the Reconciler of the whole universe,
Promised the victory of life.
But how many times have we again trampled
In the dirt his sacred gift,
And unfoundedly declared,
There will never be a war.
Lord, have mercy on us sinners
And pour out your grace.
May hell not swallow up
Your senseless children.
Grant enlightenment to the blind leaders,
Put your love into their hearts.
Send the arrogant admonition.
Do not let the blood of the innocent be shed.
After all, no one will find his paradise
By strength, power and wealth.
Peoples, countries, human brotherhood
Lives by you alone, Lord.
Yours in the love of Christ,”
— Dietrich Brauer, archbishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Russia
Recall that Russia approved a law essentially forbidding public opposition to the war against Ukraine. The prayer above and a sermon Archbishop Brauer preached after the start of the war came to the attention of the authorities and put him at risk. Archbishop Brauer therefore fled Russia with his wife and three children. They are safe in Germany. And he and his wife, who is also a pastor, continue their opposition to the war and from afar they continue also their ministry to their flock in Russia.
The Lutheran cathedral in Moscow shares its space with a Baptist congregation. And they together have been organizing the shipment of relief supplies to refugees who are in Russia. They are also supporting efforts in Ukraine to deliver relief supplies and to help people leave Ukraine.
The sermon that jeopardized the safety of Archbishop Brauer speaks of what motivates him and the people he serves.
“It is God’s business, Christ’s business to bring the sacrifice of love, redemption, forgiveness, so that there are no more senseless human sacrifices. The cross was at Calvary set up to lead us out of the bloody vicious circle. The holy God humbles himself in the guise of a servant, a criminal, an outcast and worthless people to touch our hearts and fill them with peace so that we regain dignity and humanity. Jesus did everything for it. And he still is in his spirit with us.”
May God bless Dietrich Brauer and all those he serves. And may the same God bless, inspire and move us all to serve that God and live that life as humanity redeemed and at peace.
Todd Walsh is director of spiritual care services at Thorne Crest Senior Living Community in Albert Lea. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/administrators-corner-discover-history-day-at-the-museum/ | Administrator’s Corner: Discover History Day at the museum
Published 8:00 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Keeping history alive for our students in Albert Lea Area Schools is a passion for Jim Haney, Social Studies Teacher at Albert Lea High School. The Discover History Day project has been occurring for 24 years.
“Juniors and seniors have been researching 12 topic areas in Freeborn County history from 1858-1911. Some of the topic areas are church, agriculture, school, military, occupations, general store, transportation, music and entertainment, meeting places, craftsperson, immigration and log cabin,” said Jim Haney.
Students in Mr. Haney’s class develop lesson plans that include hands-on activities. An example of agriculture is showing the 5th grade students how farmers shelled and planted corn during that time period. Another highlight of Discovery History Day is seeing the upperclassmen in the period costumes. It really gives them a taste of what Freeborn County was like during that time period. Contrary to typical teaching format, 5th grade teachers do not explicitly pre-teach this history to the students. They want the students to have an authentic experience and really feel the magnitude of the day.
Students enjoy touring the original buildings onsite at the museum. A student favorite is exploring the artifacts in the general store and seeing the products that were sold in that time period. One station is making butter and another is making pancakes. This experience really opens their eyes in terms of the labor that is involved in daily living and food consumption. It is a stark contrast to heading to the local grocery store for a stick of butter or box of pancake mix! They are amazed at how different life was in the 1800s. Students are also in awe of the different transportation. The lesson provides students with real-life examples and ties in to the science standard of simple machines. Anna Wescott, Halverson 5th grade teacher, shares, “Discover History Day really immerses students in what life was like in the 1800s. The whole day makes you feel like you have stepped back in time.”
Upon returning to school, the following days are filled with sharing and extended learning experiences. The energy in the classroom vibrates through the walls. Teachers have access to “Glimpses of Freeborn County, Minnesota: 1930-1980” by Bev Jackson. This text allows students an extension of their learning through literacy. Also, students are excited to share what they have learned with their peers since not every 5th grader visits every station.
Halverson Elementary is thrilled that our students have the opportunity to take part in Discover History Day. We are grateful for the partnership with Mr. Haney at the ALHS and the Freeborn County Historical Museum. The enthusiasm that the 5th graders return to school with is unmatched.
Tonya Franks is principal at Halverson Elementary School. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/albert-lea-school-district-most-area-schools-and-state-see-decline-in-four-year-graduation-rates-last-year/ | State, Albert Lea school district, most area schools see decline in four-year graduation rates last year
Published 6:54 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Four-year graduation rates fell slightly from 2020 to 2021 across the state, and Albert Lea Area Schools were no exception.
Of the 272 students between the two Albert Lea secondary schools in 2020, 80.88% of all students graduated in four years, while of the 259 students who attended last year, 71.81% of all students graduated in four years, a 9.7% fall in the four-year graduation rate.
The graduation rate at Albert Lea High School after four years was 85.57%, a decline from 85.78% in 2020. In 2021, the graduation rate improved to 88.78% after five years and 91.13% after six years. And after seven years, the graduation rate was at 91.78%.
Among other declining numbers were graduation rates among whites, English learners, special education students and students who qualified for free or reduced-price meals.
Students who identified as Asian increased their rate of graduation by 5.56% from 83.33% in 2020 to 88.89% last year. Hispanics also graduated in four years at a slightly higher rate: 79.49% (2020) to 80% (2021).
Graduation rates among four-year students at the Albert Lea Area Learning Center were particularly impacted, with graduation rates falling 33.16% among all students from 63.93% in 2020 to 30.77% last year. In 2020, the number of students graduating in five years dipped to 57.78%, but almost 68.33% percent of students at the learning center graduated in six years. The rolling trend continued, 63.9% of students graduated in seven years.
In 2021, 76.47% graduated in five years, 59.27% in six years and 73.08% in seven years.
Hispanic student graduation fell from 47.73% to 27.27%, white student graduation dipped from 62.16% to 28.57% and graduation among students eligible for free/reduced-price meals dipped from 60.78% to 32.08%. Special education graduation fell from 68.75% to 41.18%, but that 27.57% fall in four-year graduation rates was the lowest dip among different student groups at the learning center.
By comparison, Alden-Conger, New Richland-Hartland-Emmons-Glenville and Glenville-Emmons schools also saw a decrease in the rate of four-year graduation, Alden-Conger at 6.53%, NRHEG at 5.24% and Glenville-Emmons at 13.54%.
United South Central, on the other hand, boosted its four-year graduation rate from 85.71% to 88.89%, an increase of 3.18%.
Minnesota experienced a .5% drop from 2020 in its four-year rates, reflecting the role the pandemic played over the last two years, according to a recent press release from the Minnesota Department of Education. In last year’s class, 57,137 students graduated in four years, an 83.3% rate.
The decrease was driven by a .3% increase in student dropout, while the other .2% point decrease in graduation rate was unaccounted for.
In the state of Minnesota last year, 3,594 students from earlier classes earned diplomas and graduated in five, six or seven years after starting high school.
The decreased graduation rate is in contrast to previous years, where the state’s four-year graduation rate had been increasing from 82.5% (2016) to 83.8% (2020). Dropout rates had also been falling.
What makes last year’s class unique is that it was the first class who experienced a full school year under the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The class of 2021 faced incredibly difficult circumstances in their final years of high school,” said Heather Mueller, the state’s commissioner of education, in a press release.
According to the release, the dip underscores the necessity of keeping public schools funded and resources available for all students.
New to the graduation report was Minnesota’s definition of American Indian. That definition allowed students to be reported as such even if they belonged to other racial/ethnic groups. Under the federal definition of American Indian or Alaska native, students would have fallen under the categories of Hispanic/Latino or two or more races, and as such wouldn’t have counted as American Indian or Alaska Native.
The four-year graduation rate for American Indian saw an increase in graduation from 58.4% to 58.5% between 2020 and 2021.
Besides American Indian students, other student groups that increased their four-year graduation rates from 2020 to 2021 included black students (+1.2%) and those who identified as two or more races (+1.1%).
Groups that saw decreases in four-year graduation rates included English learners (-1.5%) and students who received special education services (-1%)
“I am extremely proud of our 2021 graduates and the educators, leaders, staff and families who helped them make it to graduation,” Mueller said. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/april-jeppson-theres-nothing-wrong-with-being-goofy/ | April Jeppson: There’s nothing wrong with being goofy
Published 8:45 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Every Little Thing by April Jeppson
You wanna know something awkward that happens to me more times than I like to admit? Someone 20 or so feet away waves and I think they’re waving at me. I don’t recognize them right away, but they seem genuinely excited to see me, so I start to hesitantly wave back. Thankfully the person behind me, that they are actually gesturing to, usually pipes up pretty quick and saves me from an inevitable embarrassing conversation.
I saw something this week that said, “Sorry I acted weird the other day. I was trying so hard to act normal that it backfired.” I can relate to that.
I was at a work conference probably about five years ago. It was in the evening and we’d all gotten together to go out for a show that night. As we were hanging out and getting to know each other better, I found one of my co-workers looking at me kind of oddly. I asked them what was going on and he just said, “you’re kind of goofy.”
I laughed at first, but deep down I was a little insulted. I wasn’t sure what he meant. I wanted him to take it back and call me something else. I suggested silly, funny or weird, but he insisted that the correct word was goofy.
I know I lingered on this experience way longer than I should have. I kept trying to figure out exactly what I did wrong. Was it when I spontaneously started singing because someone said a few words that reminded me of a song? Maybe it was when I complimented that gal on the color of her eyeshadow (it really was the most amazing color for her skin tone). Was it the random movie references I made? Maybe my hand gestures were too over the top …
I used to try so hard to be “normal.” Fun, but normal. I wanted to fit in and be taken seriously. I was always trying to find the perfect balance between what was socially acceptable and what I actually wanted to say and do. But man oh man, if a good song came on, I couldn’t always stop myself from dancing. Or if I saw the coolest glitter sneakers (and they made them in adult sizes!) I couldn’t help myself from buying a pair — or three.
Eventually I just stopped trying so hard. I no longer tried to edit myself by filing down the rough spots so that others would be more comfortable. What about me and my comfort? Didn’t I matter? Didn’t my happiness mean anything? I mean, it might not mean much to you, but it sure should mean something to me. So, I leaned in to the things that made me different, and I embraced it.
The simple act of not caring so much about what people thought of me has opened up my life immensely. I’ve met so many other “weird” people that I absolutely adore. I’ve also been given opportunities that otherwise would have passed me by. When you’re different from the rest, you stand out. And when you stand out, people notice you.
Fun fact, I don’t always like standing out, which is why when I was growing up, I tried so hard to fit in. For this reason, I still have my moments where I catch myself trying too hard to be accepted. That might never completely go away. But thankfully, as I age, I care less and less what others think of me. I’m kind of excited to see how goofy I’ll be when I’m 80.
Albert Lean April Jeppson is a wife, mom, coach and encourager of dreams. Her column appears every Saturday. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/ask-a-trooper-do-not-attempt-to-cross-a-flooded-road/ | Ask a Trooper: Do not attempt to cross a flooded road
Published 8:44 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Ask a Trooper by Troy Christianson
Question: With spring being here and the melting snow, can you talk about what a person should do when coming across water on roads?
Answer: Flooding can occur when streams and rivers flow over their banks, when dams or levees break, when there is run-off from deep snow or any time there is heavy rainfall. Floodwaters can be found on roads, bridges and low areas. Flash floods can come rapidly and unexpectedly. They can occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall.
• Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded roadway ahead, turn around and find another route to get to your destination.
• Be cautious, especially at night, when the visibility is limited.
• Remember, 6 inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or possible stalling.
• Two feet of moving water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks.
• Even if the water appears shallow enough to cross, do not attempt to cross a flooded road. Water can hide dips, or worse, floodwaters can damage roadways by washing away the underlying road surface.
• If there is no other route, proceed to higher ground and wait for the waters to subside.
You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota toward zero deaths.
If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, at 2900 48th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901-5848; or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.
Troy Christianson is a sergeant with the Minnesota State Patrol. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/capitol-comments-bird-flu-may-be-on-its-way-again-but-poultry-is-safe-to-eat/ | Capitol Comments: Bird flu may be on its way again, but poultry is safe to eat
Published 8:45 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Capitol Comments by Peggy Bennett
There’s troubling news to report in the agricultural industry. Since late November 2021 there have been a number of cases of High Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) detected in the Eastern and Midwestern United States and Canada, in both wild birds and poultry facilities. It’s a serious disease and requires rapid response because it is highly contagious and often fatal to chickens and turkeys.
We’ve been here before.
You may recall the avian flu outbreak in 2015. At that time, 9 million birds were either killed by the virus or euthanized in order to help slow the flu’s spread. This was not only a crippling blow to our state’s economy, but our poultry farmers and market supply as well.
In order to help deal with the emergency, the Legislature allocated funding and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) instituted numerous biosecurity measures designed to slow the spread of avian flu if another outbreak came to Minnesota. Because of this, our state is better prepared to handle a situation than it was seven years ago.
When talking about poultry issues, many of us automatically think of massive turkey farms with hundreds if not thousands of birds that could potentially be at risk. But the reality is, the homeowner that has five chickens in their backyard is just as susceptible to HPAI as any turkey operation, and the results can be equally devastating.
There are a few things we all need to keep in mind. First and foremost, even if there is an outbreak, it remains safe to eat chicken and turkey. If you normally buy these products at the grocery store, continue to do so because there is nothing to fear.
All bird owners, whether commercial producers or backyard enthusiasts, need to continue practicing good biosecurity, preventing contact between their birds and wild birds, and reporting sick birds or unusual bird deaths to your local veterinarian, then to state and federal officials.
Regarding biosecurity, The Minnesota Board of Animal Health has some tips available if you have questions or concerns regarding HPAI. Check out www.bah.state.mn.us/poultry/#biosecurity for more information.
Turkey and chicken farmers should also visit Minnesota’s Board of Animal Health websites to learn more about HPAI and what they can do to combat it. Tips for backyard poultry owners can be found at www.bah.state.mn.us/media/HPAI-Notice-Backyard-Final.pdf.
And it goes without saying that any disease outbreak among livestock can add to stress, financial problems, price and marketing uncertainties, household difficulties and social pressures. If you’re in need of support, give the Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline a call any time at 833-600-2670.
Peggy Bennett, R-Albert Lea, is the District 27A representative. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/court-dispositions-jan-20-27-2022/ | Court dispositions: Jan. 20-27, 2022
Published 8:00 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Freeborn County District Court
Jan. 20
Jay Ervin Frank Becker, 46, 803 Ramsey, Albert Lea. Count 1: No jurisdiction (TCIS amended charge) – Aid/Abet arson – felony. Local confinement 266 days, credit for time served 266 days. Supervised probation, indeterminate. Fine $5,000. Fees $145. Pay restitution jointly and severally in the following amounts: $14,946.00 to Interstate Packaging, Inc.; $625,744.41 to Travelers Property Casualty; and $2,839.57 to the City of Albert Lea. Make good faith payments of restitution during the terms of probation. Commit to Commissioner of Corrections – adult MN Correctional Facility-St. Cloud for 48 months, stay for 21 years.
Manuel Cruz Guaman Mainato, 32, 244 Pearl St. E, Albert Lea. Count 1: Traffic – driving after revocation. Fees $280. Count 2: Traffic – speeding – exceed limit of 30 mph. Fees $40. Count 3: Traffic regulation – driver must carry proof of insurance when operating vehicle. Fees $200.
Holly Marie Langfald, 434, 17954 Jubilee Way, Lakeville. Count 1: Traffic – driving after suspension. Fees $280.
Brandon Lee Moreno, 29, 213 Main St. E, Alden. Count 1: Dangerous weapons – metal knuckles/switch blade. Local confinement 30 days, stay for 30 days. Unsupervised probation for one year. Fees $380.
Bradley Christopher Hoppe, 29, 36773 Hemingway Ave., North Branch. Count 1: Hunting – small game without a license. Fees $180. Count 2: Hunting – pheasants without stamp validation. Fees $50.
Jan. 24
Saul Tovalin, 27, 909 Janson St., Albert Lea. Count 1: Disorderly conduct – brawling or fighting. Local confinement 90 days, stay 84 days, crest for time served six days. Supervised probation for one year. Fees $455.
Jan. 25
Derek Alan Sathre, 34, 119 Fourth St. E, Albert Lea. Count 1: Traffic – vehicle registration/permit/plates required. Fees $110. Count 2: Traffic – driver must carry proof of insurance when operating vehicle. Fees $200.
Mitchell Mageven Stevens, 35, Cerro Gordo County Jail, Mason City. Count 1: Receiving stolen property – felony. Commit to Commissioner of Corrections – adult MN Correctional Facility-St. Cloud for 19 months, stay for three years. Supervised probation for three years. Local confinement for two days, credit for time served two days. Fees $155. Count 2: Financial transaction card fraud – felony. Dismissed.
Kevin Michael Corcoran, 27, 1317 W. Roscoe St., Chicago, IL. Count 1: Traffic – speeding 90/70. Fees $220.
Raul Braulio Garcia Guerra, 41, 610 Larimore Circle, Albert Lea. Count 1: No Minnesota driver’s license after 60 days residency. Fees $180.
Dakota Miguel Hogue, 21, 902 SE Rene St., Ankeny, Iowa. Traffic – speeding 94/70. Fees $220.
Jan. 26
Nicole Lee Barnett, 34, 2005 N. Sunrise Drive, St. Peter. Count 1: Theft – take, use or transfer movable property – no consent. Local confinement 60 days, stay 60 days for one year. Unsupervised probation for one year. Fees $180. Count 2: Count 1: Theft – take, use or transfer movable property – no consent. Dismissed.
Jesus Lara-Rangel, 21, 2400 Esquire Ave., Albert Lea. Count 1: Fleeing a Peace Officer in a motor vehicle – felony. Local confinement nine days, credit for time served nine days. Supervised probation for two years. Restitution $3,647.89. Fees $205. Count 2: Traffic – careless driving. Dismissed. Count 3: Traffic – driving after revocation. Dismissed. Count 4: Possession of alcoholic beverage by underage person. Dismissed. Count 5: Possession of small amount of marijuana. Dismissed.
Kristine Robin Lenze, 30, 2020 Tower Road, Albert Lea. Count 1: Disorderly conduct – brawling or fighting. Unsupervised probation for one year. Fees $150.
Brandon James Robers, 27, 706 37th St. SW, Austin. Count 1: Possession of a methamphetamine – fifth-degree felony. Commit to Commissioner of Corrections – adult MN Correctional Facility-St. Cloud for 12 months and one day. Fees $175. Count 2: Obstruction legal process with force. Dismissed. Count 3: Assault – fifth-degree misdemeanor. Local confinement for 16 days, credit for time served 16 days.
Ryan Steven Theissn, 38, 2005 Sunrise Drive, Saint Peter. Count 1: Assault in the second degree – felony. Dismissed. Count 2: Burglary – first-degree – dwelling occupied, non-accomplice present – felony. Local confinement for 97 days, credit for time served 97 days. Supervised probation for 20 years. Fees $80. Count 3: Burglary in the first-degree – dangerous weapon – felony. Dismissed.
Mitchell Lee Anderson, 26, 12616 830th Ave., Glenville. Count 1: Traffic – DWI – third-degree driving while under the influence. Dismissed. Count 2: Traffic – DWI – third-degree – operate motor vehicle – alcohol concentration .08 within two hours. Local confinement for 180 days, stay 178 days for two years, credit for time served two days. Supervised probation for two years. Fess $1,005. Count 3: Misdemeanor obstructing arrest or legal process. Guilty, no sentence pronounced. Count 4: Misdemeanor possession of switchblade. Dismissed.
Derek Michael Schroht, 22, 202 Garfield Ave., Albert Lea. Count 1: Traffic – underage drinking and driving. Local confinement for 30 days, stay 30 days for one year. Unsupervised probation for one year. Fees $100. Count 2: Wireless communications device – initiate, compose, send retrieve, read electronic message. Dismissed.
Oscar Ramirez Gutierrez, 43, 620 E. McLaine St., Osceola, Iowa. Count 1: No Minnesota driver’s license. Fees $180.
Jerrell Wendell Trainham, 35, 432 B St., West Fargo, North Dakota. Count 1: Following/close reasonable. Local confinement for 30 days, stay 30 days for one year. Unsupervised probation for one year. Fees $100.
Jan. 27
Jane Marie Midthun, 52, 13957 Hollyhock Lane, Rogers. Count 1: Public nuisances – by act or failure to act – misdemeanor. Unsupervised probation for 365 days. Conditions – maintain and keep all rental and vacant properties clean and free of debris and refuse, bring properties into compliance with minimum housing standards. License and pay fees for the unlicensed rental properties as required by the city of Albert Lea. Permit city of Albert Lea Inspections to enter rental and vacant properties to ensure compliance with minimal housing requirements. Schedule inspections within 90 days. Count 2: Public Nuisances – condition that annoys, injures or endangers – misdemeanor. Unsupervised probation for 365 days. Conditions – maintain and keep all rental and vacant properties clean and free of debris and refuse, bring properties into compliance with minimum housing standards. License and pay fees for the unlicensed rental properties as required by the city of Albert Lea. Permit city of Albert Lea Inspections to enter rental and vacant properties to ensure compliance with minimal housing requirements. Schedule inspections within 90 days.
The Tribune publishes all convictions where the financial obligation to the court is $180 or greater, or resulted in jail time, probation or community service. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/editorial-roundup-permanent-daylight-saving-time-an-idea-whose-time-has-not-come-again/ | Editorial Roundup: Permanent daylight saving time: An idea whose time has not come again
Published 8:50 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Minnesotans’ willingness to give permanent daylight saving time a try back in the 1970s was understandable.
Consumers were reeling from that era’s steep inflation. Energy prices were particularly painful, with oil shortages the fallout from Middle East producers flexing their might.
No wonder 68% of those surveyed in a Minnesota Poll published Dec. 2, 1973, said they favored a shift to year-round daylight saving time (DST). If a simple clock adjustment could reduce energy demand and yield savings, why not give it a try? That same rationale led the U.S. Congress to pass legislation to leave clocks one hour ahead year-round beginning in early 1974.
Three months after this shift, Minnesotans had had a major change of heart. In a Minnesota Poll published March 20, 1974, 58% of those surveyed said they preferred standard time during the winter.
That historical reality should throw cold water on ill-informed modern-day proposals for a permanent DST shift.
If it didn’t work in 1974, it’s unclear why it would work now.
Yet there are bills with broad bipartisan support at the state and federal levels to make this switch again. One of them, the “Sunshine Protection Act,” cleared the U.S. Senate with little debate but unanimous consent on March 15. It would make DST permanent beginning in 2023.
At the Minnesota Legislature, there are bills, SF 149 and HF 72, calling for this as well. Sen. Mary Kiffmeyer, R-Big Lake, has long been a champion of ending the current “spring forward, fall back” clock shift. A companion bill in the House has a list of authors that includes prominent DFLers and fiery conservatives.
The state legislation, if passed, would be dependent on a congressional approval, which is sensible. Things would get confusing if Minnesota made this switch but other states did not.
— Minneapolis Star Tribune, March 26 | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/editorial-tribune-thumbs-363/ | Editorial: Tribune Thumbs
Published 8:51 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
To the fire this week at Dave Syverson Auto Center.
Any time a fire damages one of the community’s businesses, it’s a sad sight to see, and this week was no different.
A fire was reported at Dave Syverson Auto Center, 2310 E. Main St., right before 8 p.m. Wednesday in the business’s truck body shop.
Though the fire was contained to that area, there is significant damage.
We thank the firefighters and other emergency personnel who responded to the fire and helped keep the blaze contained.
As the business picks up the pieces, we remind the company of the support that exists for the business in the community.
Remember the whole community is behind you.
To the work underway on the Jacobson building.
Work started this week to repair the damaged terra cotta blocks on the city-owned Jacobson Apartments building in downtown Albert Lea.
The process will be a unique one, as a specialized terra cotta company out of California will make new copies of the blocks that need to be replaced, and then a masonry company will install them.
Though the process may take several months to complete, we are excited to see the finished product.
The Jacobson building, and its neighboring building known as the Freeborn National Bank Building, are some of the standout buildings downtown for their architecture.
We applaud the city for applying for and receiving a $276,000 grant that will cover about half of the project cost.
When the building is complete, we hope it can be marketed to developers for future use.
To moving forward in recognizing deceased students in the 2022 graduation.
We don’t know the whole story about what led to the social media posts this week by Albert Lea High School students regarding concerns about their upcoming graduation, but we are glad to hear students and administration are now working together to recognize their three classmates who have died in recent years in the upcoming commencement ceremony.
These classmates are more than a number — they were sons or daughters, they were friends, they had various interests and, most importantly, they mattered when they were alive and they still matter now.
Experiencing the death of a classmate can be traumatic for youth, and we think that allowing some form of recognition of these three individuals could do much to help students — and their families — on their healing journey.
It will be something that they will remember throughout their lifetimes. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/guest-column-celebrate-all-teachers-this-challenging-year/ | Guest Column: Celebrate all teachers this challenging year
Published 8:45 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Guest Column by Mary Hinnenkamp
Recently, I watched the movie “To Sir with Love” starring Sidney Portier. I have watched it before, the first time in college, and it probably helped inspire me to become a teacher myself. Portier plays Mr. Thackeray, an engineer who reluctantly decides to teach in the slums of London. He just needs a job. His students are rude, confrontational and do everything in their power to disrupt his class. He struggles to work with the materials he has and with the curriculum he is given. He insists that his students be respectful of him, other students and of themselves. It is when he realizes that he needs to connect with his students, to form a relationship with the students as individuals and as a class, that the students ultimately respond. At the end of the movie, “Sir” is offered the engineering job that was his career goal, but he finds teaching so satisfying, so meaningful, that he decides to stay.
Back in the real world, things are not so simple. A few weeks ago, I read an editorial in the Minneapolis Star Tribune written by a teacher in the Sartell District. She said she was exhausted, worn out with the long hours, the impossible demands, and she was giving up on teaching, a job she had always loved. A friend told me that his daughter had just quit after one too many verbal attacks by an angry parent. During a National Public Radio call-in-show a week ago, teachers who called in said that they and their students are exhausted by the stress, disruptions and uncertainty of the pandemic. In-person learning or online? Masks or no masks? Students sick with COVID. Exposures. Testing. Lack of substitute teachers. Student mental health problems. Families in distress. No wonder some teachers have given up and want out.
I no longer am in the classroom, but I stay in touch with friends who are still teaching. I attend meetings with teachers on the Teacher of the Year Committee, and I take classes with teachers to renew my license. I listen. I hear about the problems, but I also hear about teachers who are working on learning processes, on effective teaching strategies and on ways to de-escalate a child in crisis. I hear teachers talk with such admiration about colleagues who have helped them get through this difficult, frustrating school year using technology, patience and esprit de corps.
This year 87 teachers were nominated to be Teacher of the Year by students, parents or other teachers. The reasons people give for the nominations are telling. It seems that kids are just so happy to be back in school in-person again and nominated teachers who were fun, caring, encouraging, fair and funny. Parents’ nominations seemed to focus on teachers who are, first of all, knowledgeable and skilled. But this year, parents also seemed to appreciate what their child’s teacher had done to “bring her out of her shell,” to make their child “believe that they can achieve anything they set their mind to,” and the teacher who had set in motion “vast improvements in behavior in school and at home.” But the essence of what this year has been like comes from the nominations of the other teachers. They are inspired by a colleague who is “a ray of sunshine,” who “puts his heart and soul into his job,” who has “a roll up her sleeve ethic,” who “allows students to make and learn from mistakes,” who has “great insight,” “celebrates diversity,” “who sees the whole child,” and who “makes everyone around her better.”
The goal of our committee, the Teacher of the Year Committee, is to celebrate good teachers and to acknowledge their hard work, their talent and the important role teachers play in the lives of the young people we care about. But I think that should be the role of every parent, grandparent and concerned adult: Be grateful and thank a teacher for all they have done to be the rock for our children in this very tough year.
Next week, one teacher will be chosen as the teacher of the year. Let’s celebrate that choice, and let’s celebrate them all.
Mary Hinnenkamp is a member of the Albert Lea Teacher of the Year Committee. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/james-pat-lair/ | James “Pat” Lair
Published 8:19 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Sept. 18, 1921 – March 30, 2022
ALBERT LEA, Minn. – James “Pat” Lair, 100, Albert Lea, Minn., died Wednesday, March 30, in St. John’s – The Woodlands.
Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Friday, April 8, at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home in Albert Lea. Visitation will continue from 9-10 a.m., followed by a funeral at 10 a.m., Saturday, April 9, at St. Theodore Catholic Church in Albert Lea. Father Kurt Farrell will officiate. Interment will be in the church cemetery.
Arrangements by Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home.
www.bayviewfuneral.com | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/lions-donate-funds-for-bus-tokens/ | Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
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Lions donate funds for bus tokens
Published 8:00 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
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Albert Lea Noon Lions Club donated $250 to be used for bus tokens to SEMCAC. Pictured is Linda Lares of SEMCAC. Provided
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https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/robin-gudal-transform-yourself-in-season-of-lent/ | Robin Gudal: Transform yourself in season of lent
Published 8:00 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
EN(dur)ANCE by Robin Gudal
Lent is more than Filet-O-Fish (McDonald’s) and two for $$ fish specials at your favorite restaurant. It is a holy time, lest we forget. I was at Kohl’s on Ash Wednesday. A woman was at the return counter ahead of me, and when she turned, I felt a pause in my life. I wanted and wished I had spoken out, but I literally felt like right there I was standing on holy ground. What was it you ask — she had a large cross marked with ash on her forehead. I thought wow, you really are proclaiming Jesus, everywhere you go! I felt challenged and encouraged all at the same time.
“This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine, Let it shine, all the time, let it shine! All around the neighborhood, I’m going to let it shine.” — “ This Little Light of Mine” by Harry Dixon Loes (1920s)
I recently saw a Lenten challenge (Pope Francis) that I think is perfect for the times we are living in.
• Fast form hurting words and say kind words.
• Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude.
• Fast from anger and be filled with patience.
• Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope.
• Fast from worries and have trust in God.
• Fast from complaints, contemplate simplicity.
• Fast from pressures and be prayerful.
• Fast from bitterness; fill your hearts with joy.
• Fast from selfishness and be compassionate.
• Fast from grudges and be reconciled.
• Fast from words; be silent and listen.
My go-to fasting book filled with discernment and wisdom is, “Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough” by Elmer L. Towns, a must-read (in my humble opinion) for those interested in the topic. Recently, I started the newly released book, “40 days of Decrease” by Alicia Britt Chole. She challenges us to study Jesus’ uncommon and uncomfortable call to abandon the world’s illusions, embrace his kingdom’s realities and journey cross-ward and beyond. “Spiritual disciplines do not transform, they only become relational opportunities to open the heart to the Spirit who transforms.” — John H. Coe
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV)
Blessed Lent season.
Robin (Beckman) Gudal is intentional in life, a wife, momma, nana, friend and a flawed and imperfect follower of Jesus. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/standout-student-khan-dup/ | Standout Student: Khan Dup
Published 8:00 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
Age: 13
Parents:Mary Puok
Where are you from? Albert Lea
If from Albert Lea, which elementary school did you attend? Lakeview Elementary
Favorite teacher of all time and why? I don’t have a favorite teacher because all of them have been kind, amazing and fun
Favorite book/author: “The Girl Who Drank the Moon”
Current/past activities, volunteer work and accomplishments: Last year I was a Standout Student.
What advice would you give to younger students in Albert Lea? Be kind and respectful, through hard times try to be positive, don’t give up!
What teachers say:
“Khan is respectful, kind and hard-working. He strives to be his best and improve every day.”
“Khan is an exceptional student who is polite, hardworking, humble and always present in class. Khan brings a calm energy to the classroom environment, but is still highly motivated and energetic, always participating in the lesson activities. Khan Dup is well deserving of this award.”
“Khan enters the classroom with a positive attitude on a daily basis. He is enthusiastic about classroom activities and he strives to reach his full potential. Khan is a student you can always count on to set an example of excellence with his behavior and cooperation. He is well-liked by his classmates and is a valued member of his classroom and grade as a whole. Khan is a student you can always count on to lead by example, and naturally other students will follow his lead.”
“Khan is a dedicated, creative and caring student. His friendly demeanor and easy going personality makes him a great team member and leader.” | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/star-class-preparing-for-middle-school/ | Star Class: Preparing for middle school
Published 8:00 pm Friday, April 1, 2022
- Fifth graders at Sibley Elementary School met with the orchestra, band and choir teachers from Southwest Middle school over the last couple weeks. They are learning about the different programs that they may want to try next year. They are excited for new opportunities next year at the middle school. Provided | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220402 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/area-pool-players-finding-success-with-austin-league/ | Area pool players finding success with Austin league
Published 12:31 pm Saturday, April 2, 2022
- A few area pool players have been able to improve their game with the Austin Youth Pool League this year.
Jace Swank, 9, Gavin Wiedemann, 11, Emi Wilson, 11, Jayden Van, 14, Jack Thoreson, 14, and Lance Boley, a 16-year-old from Albert Lea, are all members of the league, which competes at the Bakery Lounge. Last weekend, Swank, Wiedemann and Wilson took second in the three-player tournament. Swank took second in singles for boys and Wilson took second in singles for girls. The team took third in an Owatonna tournament in the 7-11 year-old division. The D&R Youth year-end tournament will be held in Owatonna on April 10 and that is a singles tournament.
Provided | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220403 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/cedar-valley-services-affected-by-staffing-shortages/ | Cedar Valley Services affected by staffing shortages
Published 12:45 pm Saturday, April 2, 2022
Cedar Valley Services, which has been around since 1960 and provides vocational training and day supports for over 500 people with disabilities, offers subcontract work for people at their center, located at 2205 Myers Road.
“We operate food services, we have a custodial service, we do commercial laundry,” said Richard Pavek, executive director of Cedar Valley Services. “We do a lot of different things here to provide a wide variety of work opportunities for individuals.
But last year was particularly impactful for most nonprofit organizations throughout Minnesota, and Cedar Valley Services was no exception.
“We never closed as an organization,” he said. “The staff came in and a lot of the staff performed some of the work that had been done by the persons with disabilities. We kind of did a place-holding situation for them so that when they were allowed to come back to work from the state, those positions were still available.”
But some people left, which left a lot of open positions. And those unfilled positions (21 as of Thursday) are preventing the company from bringing everybody — including those with disabilities — back.
“What we get reimbursed with from the state through the Disability Waiver Rate System just isn’t enough to cover,” he said. “The employment market is kind of wild right now. It’s very competitive and a lot of people have left the field to go to higher-paying jobs.”
But Cedar Valley Services, which serves just over 500 people with disabilities, is limited in what they can pay their staff based on the Disability Waiver Rate System, which is based on outdated information and doesn’t provide the company the ability to compete for workers.
Cedar Valley Services operates out of Austin, Albert Lea and Owatonna and has a waiting list of 3,500 people. Pavek said the waiting can have a devastating effect on those waiting who can’t work.
“This has a devastating effect on their health, their mental health just being at home for as long a period of time,” he said. “And many of the folks who haven’t come back are some of the highest-need individuals.”
And that means more staff to help them, something not available.
Besides work, Pavek said mental health declines for people with disabilities because there isn’t as much of a chance to socialize.
“It’s important to get up in the morning and go to your jobs and see your friends and do something with our day,” he said. “A lot of them are sitting at home.”
To address the situation, Pavek and his team are looking at ways to keep benefits attractive. They’re also working with legislation at the state level and have three bills lined up: Best Life Alliance (designed for long-term workforce sustainability that proposes adjusting the Disability Waiver Rate System to accommodate more current economic data), SF 2968/HF 3628 (legislation aimed at short-term immediate steps the state can take to stabilize the disability waiver services workforce and proposes time-limited benefits to staff) and SF 2773/HF 3157 (aimed at increasing access to employment exploration, a service that is the first step for Minnesotans with disabilities interested in exploring competitive community-based work and proposes aligning wage data used to formulate the rate of that service with wage data for services that use similar staff types).
“There’s opportunities for the people that we serve everywhere,” he said. “Businesses are looking at it, and all we need to do is find enough staff to help support that.”
He’s hopeful the legislation can keep the organization level and even improve it.
By Pavek’s estimation there are 135 staff members currently, but said he wants at least 21 more to serve the 500-plus people being served. He called the situation critical.
“Our staff have a lot of responsibility and they work very hard and they care about their jobs,” he said.
He also said there was a waiting list of people who had never received services.
“The staff is what makes our organization successful,” he said.
Pavek encouraged people to contact area representatives, including but not limited to Sen. Gene Dornick and Rep. Patricia Mueller. He wants them to advocate for signing on to one of the bills.
“We’re gaining some momentum on doing it, but it’s going to take more contact and more education on people,” he said. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220403 |
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https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/dennis-r-yotter/ | Dennis R. Yotter
Published 3:05 pm Sunday, April 3, 2022
Dennis Ralph Yotter, 60, of Austin, passed away on March 28th, 2022.
Dennis was born July 7th, 1961, to Ralph and Patricia (Mitchell) Yotter in Slayton, MN. After graduating Albert Lea High School in 1980 he attended vocational school. He enlisted in the Minnesota Army National Guard and served 9 years where he achieved the rank of Sargent.
Dennis was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He worked hard his entire life and instilled a hard work ethic in his family. He was a talented industrial mechanic and was always willing to pass on his knowledge. In his free time, he enjoyed being outdoors, turkey and deer hunting, fishing, spending time with his grandchildren, eating blueberry pie, a cold beer after he finished mowing and country drives with his wife.
Dennis had a large laugh and even larger smile no matter the situation. He saw the positive even in the hardest of times. He was never short on friends and knew how to make a new friend out of everyone he met.
Dennis is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Julie; his parents; his children: Tara Yotter of Albert Lea, Melissa Yotter of Mankato, and Jordan (Amanda) Montes of Albert Lea; grandchildren: Sean, Seth, Alyvia, Isabella, Dylan, Aubrey, and Vivian; siblings: Bonnie Villarreal, David Yotter, Julie (Kevin) Kvenvold, and Doug (Shelly) Yotter; brother in-law, Jay (Mari) Bottelson; and several aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews.
Dennis is preceded in death by maternal and paternal grandparents; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Clair and Bonnie Bottelson; and brother, Daniel Yotter.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00-5:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 9, 2022, at Bonnerup Funeral Service in Albert Lea. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/james-leonard-pat-lair/ | James Leonard “Pat” Lair
Published 3:26 pm Sunday, April 3, 2022
Funeral services for James Leonard “Pat” Lair, age 100, of Albert Lea, will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2022, at 10:00 a.m., St. Theodore Catholic Church in Albert Lea. Father Kurt Farrell will officiate. Interment will be in St. Theodore Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 8 at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home; and also one hour prior to the time of the service at the church. Service will be livestreamed from the Bayview Funeral Home Facebook page at https://fb.me/e/4Nm34B3FJ. Sign the guest book at www.bayviewfuneral.com.
Pat went to his Heavenly home peacefully at 2:45 p.m. on Wednesday, March 30, 2022, at St. John’s–The Woodlands, Albert Lea.
Pat was born on September 18, 1921, to Henry Francis “Frank” and Mary Gertrude “Gert” (Carey) Lair in Albert Lea. He was baptized on September 20, 1921, at St. Theodore Catholic Church in Albert Lea. He graduated from Emmons High School in 1940 and devoted his life to farming.
Pat married Verliss Delphine Lofthus on July 22, 1943, at St. Theodore Catholic Church, celebrating their wedding dinner at the A & W Root Beer Stand. They made their home in rural Emmons from 1943–1949 and moved to their farm in Hayward. Pat retired in 1990 and they moved to Albert Lea.
Pat was well known for his gentle nature, kindness, had a big heart, and loving everyone. He never had a cross word about anyone, he says, “If you can’t say something nice about someone, keep your mouth shut.” Pat enjoyed going up north fishing, play cards, dancing, Jake’s pizza and diet Coke, woodworking, making rosettes and cracker jacks. He served on the boards of Hayward Co-op, Hayward Township, and 27 years for Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home.
Survivors include children, Jerry (Anita) Lair of Rochester, Tom (Valerie) Lair of Albert Lea, Mark (Audrey) Lair of Ames, Iowa, Loren (Jane) Lair of Hayward,
Linda (Jay) Radue of Prior Lake; daughters-in-law, Kay Lair, Linda (Beyer) Lair; grandchildren, Lori Lair, Scott (Brinda) Lair, Amy (James) Rediske, Kevin (Jen) Lair, Kristin (Erik) Peterson, Todd “T.J.” Lair, Kelly Lair, Alex (Katie) Lair, Brittni Lair, Chad Radue, Nicky (Tyler) Klingson, Heather (Dan) Harms, Allison (Lance) Langer, and Brian (Vivienne) Derck; great-grandchildren, Jeramiah Rediske, Ethan and Jonah Lair, Lucas and Bennett Peterson, Blake DePagter, Kennedy and Brooklyn Salm, Easton Radue, Presley and Shay Klingson, Haley and Tyler Harms, Jordan Langer, Bradley and Nicolas Derck; sister-in-law, Darleen (Kenneth) Lee; and many nieces and nephews.
Pat was preceded in death by his wife, Verliss; sons, James Richard “Jim” Lair and Dennis Allen “Denny” Lair; daughter-in-law, Linda (Lubke) Lair; sisters,
Gertrude Eileen (Lair) Hengesteg, 12-year old Helen Maxine Lair, Mary Elizabeth “Betty” (Lair) Martinson, Margaret Genevieve “Margie” (Lair) MacKay; brothers, William Webster “Bussy” Lair and Francis Leo “Fritz” Lair.
The family extends their gratitude to the staff of St. John’s and St. Croix Hospice for taking such good care of Pat.
The family requests that contributions in memory of Pat go to St. Theodore Catholic Church or St. Croix Hospice or 2022 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Albert Lea/Austin https://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=15658&pg=entry . | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/man-pleads-guilty-to-sexual-abuse-of-child/ | Man pleads guilty to sexual abuse of child
Published 3:22 pm Sunday, April 3, 2022
A Glenville man pleaded guilty in Freeborn County District Court on Friday to sexual abuse of a child as part of a plea agreement.
Vincente Ramon Martinez, 42, pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct of a victim under 13 by a person more than 36 months older. A second charge, of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, is expected to be dismissed. The abuse reportedly occurred in 2013.
According to court documents, the agreement calls for a stayed prison sentence of 36 months, as well as 25 years of probation, meaning he will not have to serve the prison term as long as he abides by the terms of his probation. It also calls for completing a psychosexual evaluation, completing sex offender treatment, having no contact with anyone under 18 until approved by a treatment provider except his biological daughter with third-party supervision, among other conditions.
The plea petition states other conditions are subject to argument, including local jail time of 180 to 365 days as a condition of probation. He will also have to register as a predatory offender for the rest of his life.
Prior to the guilty plea, the Freeborn County Attorney’s Office had motioned to add additional charges against Martinez but withdrew that amendment when the plea was entered.
Martinez is slated to be sentenced June 30. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/ukraine-accuses-russia-of-massacre-city-strewn-with-bodies/ | Ukraine accuses Russia of massacre, city strewn with bodies
Published 3:25 pm Sunday, April 3, 2022
BUCHA, Ukraine — Bodies with bound hands, close-range gunshot wounds and signs of torture lay scattered in a city on the outskirts of Kyiv after Russian soldiers withdrew from the area. Ukrainian authorities accused the departing forces on Sunday of committing war crimes and leaving behind a “scene from a horror movie.”
As images of the bodies — of people whom residents said were killed indiscriminately — began to emerge from Bucha, a slew of European leaders condemned the atrocities and called for tougher sanctions against Moscow.
So far, the bodies of 410 civilians have been found in Kyiv-area towns that were recently retaken from Russian forces, Ukraine’s prosecutor-general, Iryna Venediktova, said.
Associated Press journalists saw the bodies of at least 21 people in various spots around Bucha, northwest of the capital. One group of nine, all in civilian clothes, were scattered around a site that residents said Russian troops used as a base. They appeared to have been killed at close range. At least two had their hands tied behind their backs, one was shot in the head, another’s legs were bound.
Ukrainian officials laid the blame for the killings in Bucha and other Kyiv suburbs squarely at the feet of Russian troops, with the president calling them evidence of genocide. But Russia’s Defense Ministry rejected the accusations as “provocation.”
The discoveries followed the Russian retreat from the area around the capital, territory that has seen heavy fighting since troops invaded Ukraine from three directions on Feb. 24. Troops who swept in from Belarus to the north spent weeks trying to clear a path to Kyiv, but their advance stalled in the face of resolute defense from Ukraine’s forces.
Moscow now says it is focusing its offensive on the country’s east, but it also pressed a siege on a city in the north and continued to strike cities elsewhere in a war that has left thousands dead and forced more than 4 million Ukrainians to flee their country.
Russian troops rolled into Bucha in the early days of the invasion and stayed up to March 30. With those forces gone, residents gave harrowing accounts Sunday, saying soldiers shot and killed civilians without any apparent reason.
One resident, who refused to give his name out of fear for his safety, said that Russian troops went building to building and took people out of the basements where they were hiding, checking their phones for any evidence of anti-Russian activity and taking them away or shooting them.
Hanna Herega, another resident, said Russian troops shot a neighbor who had gone out to gather wood for heating.
“He went to get some wood when all of a sudden they (Russians) started shooting. They hit him a bit above the heel, crushing the bone, and he fell down,” Herega said. “Then they shot off his left leg completely, with the boot. Then they shot him all over (the chest). And another shot went slightly below the temple. It was a controlled shot to the head.”
The AP also saw two bodies, that of a man and a woman, wrapped in plastic that residents said they had covered and placed in a shaft until a proper funeral could be arranged.
The resident who refused to be identified said the man was killed as he left a home.
“He put his hands up, and they shot him,” he said.
Oleksiy Arestovych, an adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, described bodies lying the streets of the suburbs of Irpin and Hostomel as well as Bucha as a “scene from a horror movie.” He alleged that some of the women found dead had been raped before being killed and the Russians then burned the bodies.
“This is genocide,” Zelenskyy told CBS’ “Face the Nation” on Sunday.
In a post later Sunday on Telegram, he asked Russian mothers to watch what is happening, saying they have raised “murderers, marauders, executioners.”
But Russia’s Defense Ministry said in a statement that the photos and videos of dead bodies “have been stage managed by the Kyiv regime for the Western media.” It noted that Bucha’s mayor did not mention any abuses a day after Russian troops left.
The ministry charged said “not a single civilian has faced any violent action by the Russian military” in Bucha.
In Motyzhyn, some 50 kilometers (30 miles) west of Kyiv, residents told AP on Sunday that Russian troops killed the town’s mayor, her husband and her son and threw their bodies into a pit in a pine forest behind houses where Russian forces had slept. Inside the pit, AP journalists saw four bodies of people who appeared to have been shot at close range. The mayor’s husband had his hands behind his back, with a piece of rope nearby, and a piece of plastic wrapped around his eyes like a blindfold.
Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said Sunday that the mayor was killed while being held by Russian forces.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko called on other nations to immediately end Russian gas imports, saying they were funding the killings.
“Not a penny should go to Russia anymore,” Klitschko told German newspaper Bild. “That’s bloody money used to slaughter people. The gas and oil embargo must come immediately.”
Officials in France, Germany, Italy, Estonia and the U.K. separately condemned what was being described and vowed that Russia would be held accountable.
“This is not a battlefield, it’s a crime scene,” Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas tweeted.
Ukrainian authorities said they were documenting evidence to add to their case for prosecuting Russian officials for war crimes. The bodies found outside Kyiv are being examined by prosecutors and other specialists, the prosecutor-general said on Facebook.
As Russian forces retreated from the area around the capital, they pressed their sieges in other parts of the country. Russia has said it is directing troops to the Donbas in eastern Ukraine, where Russia-backed separatists have been fighting Ukrainian forces for eight years.
In that region, Mariupol, a port on the Sea of Azov that has seen some of the war’s greatest suffering, remained cut off. About 100,000 civilians — less than a quarter of the prewar population of 430,000 — are believed to be trapped there with little or no food, water, fuel and medicine.
The International Committee of the Red Cross said Sunday that a team sent Saturday to help evacuate residents had yet to reach the city.
Ukrainian authorities said Russia agreed days ago to allow safe passage from the city, but similar agreements have broken down repeatedly under continued shelling.
The mayor of Chernihiv, which has also been cut off from shipments of food and other supplies for weeks, said Sunday that relentless Russian shelling has destroyed 70% of the northern city.
On Sunday morning, Russian forces launched missiles on the Black Sea port of Odesa, in southern Ukraine, sending up clouds of dark smoke that veiled parts of the city. The Russian military said the targets were an oil processing plant and fuel depots.
The regional governor in Kharkiv said Sunday that Russian artillery and tanks launched over 20 strikes on Ukraine’s second-largest city and its outskirts in the country’s northeast over the past day.
In a town southeast of the city, Oleh Synyehubov said Russian troops fired on a convoy of buses that was trying to evacuate patients from a hospital that had been heavily damaged in shelling a day earlier. Synyehubov said about 70 patients needed to be taken away from the damaged hospital in Balakliya, but that the buses were not able to enter the town.
The head of Ukraine’s delegation in talks with Russia said Moscow’s negotiators informally agreed to most of a draft proposal discussed during face-to-face talks in Istanbul this week, but no written confirmation has been provided. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/senate-panel-to-vote-on-jackson-nomination-to-supreme-court/ | Senate panel to vote on Jackson nomination to Supreme Court
Published 4:52 am Monday, April 4, 2022
WASHINGTON — Democrats are launching a whirlwind of votes and Senate floor action Monday with the goal of confirming Ketanji Brown Jackson as the first Black woman on the Supreme Court by the end of the week.
The Senate Judiciary Committee kicks off Monday morning with a vote on whether to move Jackson’s nomination to the Senate floor. Democrats will then wind the nomination through the 50-50 Senate, with a final vote in sight for President Joe Biden’s pick to replace retiring Justice Stephen Breyer.
After more than 30 hours of hearings and interrogation from Republicans over her record, Jackson is on the brink of making history as the third Black justice and only the sixth woman in the court’s more than 200-year history. Democrats — and at least one Republican — tout her deep experience in her nine years on the federal bench and the chance to for her to become the first former public defender on the court.
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin said Thursday that the high regard for Jackson after a combative four days of hearings is “evidence of the strength that she brings to this nomination and the value that she will bring to the Supreme Court.”
The Judiciary panel could deadlock on Monday’s vote, 11-11, meaning Democrats will have to spend additional hours on the Senate floor to “discharge” her nomination from committee. While it won’t delay the process for long, it’s another blow for Democrats who had hoped to confirm Jackson with bipartisan support.
A deadlocked vote would be “a truly unfortunate signal of the continued descent into dysfunction of our confirmation process,” said Delaware Sen. Chris Coons, a Democrat on the Judiciary panel.
The committee hasn’t deadlocked on a nomination since 1991, when a motion to send Justice Clarence Thomas’ nomination to the floor with a “favorable” recommendation failed on a 7-7 vote. The committee then voted to send the nomination to the floor without a recommendation, meaning it could still be brought up for a vote.
Either way, Democrats are ready to spend time on the discharge Monday afternoon, if necessary. The Senate would then move to a series of procedural steps before a final confirmation vote later in the week.
While none of the Republicans on the Judiciary panel is expected to support Jackson, Democrats will have at least one GOP vote in favor on the floor — Maine Sen. Susan Collins, who announced last week that she will support the nominee. Collins said that even though she may not always agree with her, Jackson “possesses the experience, qualifications and integrity to serve as an associate justice on the Supreme Court.”
It’s unclear so far whether any other Republicans will join her. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell set the tone for the party last week when he said he “cannot and will not” support her, citing GOP concerns raised in the hearing about her sentencing record and her support from liberal advocacy groups.
Collins and Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina were the only three to vote for Jackson when the Senate confirmed her as an appeals court judge last year. Graham said Thursday he won’t support her this time around; Murkowski says she’s still deciding.
Collins’ support likely saves Democrats from having to use Vice President Kamala Harris’ tie-breaking vote to confirm President Joe Biden’s pick, and Biden called Collins on Wednesday to thank her after her announcement, according to the senator’s office. The president had called her at least three times before the hearings, part of a larger push to win a bipartisan vote for his historic nominee.
It is expected that all 50 Democrats will support Jackson, though one notable moderate Democrat, Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, hasn’t yet said how she will vote. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/1-arrested-for-controlled-substance-possession-and-other-reports/ | 1 arrested for controlled substance possession and other reports
Published 9:16 am Monday, April 4, 2022
Police arrested Davie Lujan, 57, for fifth-degree controlled substance possession at 11:36 pm. Sunday at 928 W. Front St.
2 arrested on warrants
Police arrested Nathaniel Isaiah Rojas, 24, on local warrants at 12:04 a.m. Friday at 940 Jefferson Ave.
Police arrested Rio Santiago Acosta, 24, on an arrest and detain warrant at 12:50 p.m. Friday at 209 S. Pearl St.
Juveniles cited for marijuana, e-cigarette
Police cited a juvenile for possession of a small amount of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and an e-cigarette on school property at 1:34 a.m. Friday at 1000 E. Hawthorne St.
Rims, tires stolen
Police received a report at 6:51 am. Friday of rims and tires that were stolen at 1207 Plainview Lane. The theft reportedly occurred sometime between 6 p.m. the night prior and 6:30 a.m. that morning.
Assault reported
Police received a report of an assault at 8:30 a.m. Friday at 839 Lakeview Boulevard.
1 arrested on alleged probation violation
Police arrested Errick Devahon McKenzie, 25, on an alleged probation violation at 1:36 p.m. Friday at 2102 E. Main St.
Attempted break-in reported
An attempted break-in of two storage units was reported at 8:06 a.m. Saturday at 301 Rezin Ave.
Bike stolen
Police received a report at 5:16 p.m. Saturday of a bike that was stolen at 915 Garfield Ave.
Mailbox damaged
A mailbox was reported damaged at 6:38 p.m. Saturday at 518 W. Richway Drive.
Spray-paint reported
Police received a report at 10:53 a.m. Sunday of spray-paint at 300 Johnson St.
Theft by fraud reported
Deputies received a report at 11:58 a.m. Friday of a savings account that was hacked. About $2,300 was taken out. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/2013-redemptions-2nd-run/ | 2013 REDEMPTIONS-2ND RUN
Published 9:49 am Monday, April 4, 2022
NOTICE OF EXPIRATION OF REDEMPTION
State of Minnesota PAT MARTINSON
County of FREEBORN COUNTY County Auditor
TO : ALL PERSONS WITH A LEGAL INTEREST IN THE PARCELS OF REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED
IN THE FOLLOWING NOTICE
You are hereby notified that the parcels of real property described below and located in FREEBORN COUNTY Minnesota, were bid in for the state on 5/13/2014, at the tax judgment sale of land for delinquent taxes for year 2013.
The following information is listed below: the names of the property owners, taxpayers, and interested parties who have filed their addresses under M.S. 276.041; the addresses of the parties at the election of the county auditor; the legal description and the parcel identification number of each parcel; and the amount necessary to redeem a parcel as of the date listed below.
Names of Owners, Parcel # Total Tax
Taxpayers, Description of Property + Penalties
& Interested Parties ($ + cents)
CITY OF ALBERT LEA
PRI – 000043577 M 34.998.0310
VERNOICA DURAN Lot-069
2403 MILO AVE REGAL YR 73 VIN# 43577 $965.67
ALBERT LEA MN 56007 14 X 70 SP 92-3000
2403 MILO AVE
CITY OF ALBERT LEA
The time for redemption of the parcels of real property listed above from the tax judgment sale will expire 60 days after service of this notice and filing of proof thereof in the county auditor’s office, or May 13, 2022 whichever is later. The redemption must be made in the county auditor’s office .
FAILURE TO REDEEM SUCH LANDS PRIOR TO THE EXPIRATION OF REDEMPTION WILL RESULT IN THE LOSS OF THE LAND AND FORFEITURE OF SAID LAND TO THE STATE OF MINNESOTA.
The amounts listed above must be paid on or before May 13, 2022. Please contact the FREEBORN COUNTY Auditors Office to verify the amount due if paid after May 13, 2022.
Inquiries about the delinquent tax proceedings described above can be made to
the FREEBORN COUNTY Auditor at the address listed below
Witnessed my hand and official seal this day of March 18, 2022 | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/2014-redemptions-2nd-run/ | 2014 REDEMPTIONS-2ND RUN
Published 9:49 am Monday, April 4, 2022
NOTICE OF EXPIRATION OF REDEMPTION
State of Minnesota PAT MARTINSON
County of FREEBORN COUNTY County Auditor
TO : ALL PERSONS WITH A LEGAL INTEREST IN THE PARCELS OF REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED
IN THE FOLLOWING NOTICE
You are hereby notified that the parcels of real property described below and located in FREEBORN COUNTY Minnesota, were bid in for the state on 5/12/2014, at the tax judgment sale of land for delinquent taxes for year 2014.
The following information is listed below: the names of the property owners, taxpayers, and interested parties who have filed their addresses under M.S. 276.041; the addresses of the parties at the election of the county auditor; the legal description and the parcel identification number of each parcel; and the amount necessary to redeem a parcel as of the date listed below.
Names of Owners, Parcel # Total Tax
Taxpayers, Description of Property + Penalties
& Interested Parties ($ + cents)
CITY OF CLARKS GROVE
PRI – 000043831 M 22 . 998 . 0600
SINDI FULTON & Lot-303
ELIZABETH FULTON HIGHLAND VIN # H09532 $713.10
303 HILLCREST CIR 16 X 80 YR 2000
CLARKS GROVE MN 56016 SP 2001-36000
303 HILLCREST CIR
CITY OF CLARKS GROVE
The time for redemption of the parcels of real property listed above from the tax judgment sale will expire 60 days after service of this notice and filing of proof thereof in the county auditor’s office, or May 12, 2022 whichever is later. The redemption must be made in the county auditor’s office .
FAILURE TO REDEEM SUCH LANDS PRIOR TO THE EXPIRATION OF REDEMPTION WILL RESULT IN THE LOSS OF THE LAND AND FORFEITURE OF SAID LAND TO THE STATE OF MINNESOTA.
The amounts listed above must be paid on or before May 12, 2022. Please contact the FREEBORN COUNTY Auditors Office to verify the amount due if paid after May 12, 2022.
Inquiries about the delinquent tax proceedings described above can be made to
the FREEBORN COUNTY Auditor at the address listed below
Witnessed my hand and official seal this day of March 18, 2022 | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/2023-expansion-project/ | 2023 EXPANSION PROJECT
Published 9:46 am Monday, April 4, 2022
Northern Lights 2023 Expansion Project
On March 28,2022, Northern Natural Gas (Northern) filed an application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in Docket No. CP22-138-000 requesting authorization to construct and operate (1) a 2.79-mile extension of its 36-inch-diameter Ventura North E-line in Freeborn County, Minnesota; (2) a 1.07-mile, 30-inch-diameter loop of its 20-inch-diameter Elk River 1st and 2nd branch lines in Washington County, Minnesota; (3) a 1.14-mile extension of its 24-inch-diameter Willmar D branch line in Scott County, Minnesota; (4) a 2.48-mile extension of its 8-inch-diameter Princeton tie-over loop in Sherburne County, Minnesota; (5) a 2.01-mile 4-inch-diameter loop of its 3-inch-diameter Paynesville branch line in Stearns County, Minnesota; (6) a 0.34-mile extension of its 8-inch-diameter Tomah branch line loop in Monroe County, Wisconsin; and (7) aboveground appurtenant facilities consisting of a launcher and tie-over valve settings. The project facilities described in the application will enable Northern to provide incremental winter firm service of 44,222 dekatherms per day (Dth/day) serving residential, commercial and industrial customer market growth in Northern’s Market Area and 6,667 Dth/day of additional firm service that will allow a local distribution company enhanced reliability and flexibility in nominating and scheduling natural gas transportation capacity for electric generation. The facilities will be constructed in 2023 in order to meet contractual obligations effective November 1, 2023.
A general location map showing the location of the Ventura North E-line extension is included with this notice. Northern has contacted, and will continue to contact, landowners regarding temporary and permanent easement rights.
Northern owns and operates an interstate natural gas pipeline system and is regulated by FERC. Northern must obtain FERC approval to construct and operate the proposed facilities. Northern has requested that FERC issue an order approving the proposed project by February 16, 2023, in order for construction to be completed and the facilities to be ready for an in-service date of November 1, 2023.
A separate notice regarding Northern’s application will be mailed to affected landowners and stakeholders involved with the project. You may contact Northern with questions about the project by email at NorthernLights2023@nngco.com or by calling a toll-free number (888-367-6671).
A copy of Northern’s application has been mailed to the following libraries: (1) Elk River Public Library in Elk River, MN; (2) Wildwood Library in Mahtomedi, MN; (3) Richmond Public Library in Richmond, MN; (4) Paynesville Public Library in Paynesville, MN; (5) Sparta Free Library in Sparta, WI; (6) Albert Lea Public Library in Albert Lea, MN; and (7) Prior Lake Library in Prior Lake, MN. The application also may be obtained through the FERC’s website at http://www.ferc.gov using the “eLibrary” link. Enter the docket number excluding the last three digits (CP22-138-000) in the docket number field to access the document. User assistance is available at FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov or toll free at 866-208-3676 (TTY, call 202-502-8659). A pamphlet, An Interstate Natural Gas Facility on My Land? What Do I Need To Know?, which provides information for landowners is available on the FERC’s website at https://www.ferc.gov/industries-data/natural-gas/landowner-topics-interest.
Any interested party may participate in the proceeding by making a filing with FERC’s Secretary, 888 First Street NE, Washington, DC 20426. Additional information regarding FERC’s regulations, policies or procedures is available on FERC’s website at http://www.ferc.gov or from FERC’s Office of External Affairs at 866-208-3372. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/av-13-cascadia/ | AV/13 CASCADIA
Published 9:48 am Monday, April 4, 2022
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that certain abandoned property located at 1520 NE 44th Ave Des Moines Iowa 50313 , has come into the possession of KOT Repair, LLC. This property is described as a 2013 Freightliner Cascadia
Vin# 1FUJGLDR3CSBA3696
Miles: 888776
Color: Maroon
This property has been abandoned for more than 6 months. Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes this property is abandoned and shall become the property of KOT REPAIR, LLC thirty (30) days after service by publication of this notice.
By: Aaron Pinkston
KOT REPAIR
1520 NE 44th Ave
Des Moines Iowa, 50313
Albert Lea Tribune:
Apr. 2, 9, and 16, 2022
AV/13 CASCADIA | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/bids-209th-stret/ | BIDS/209TH STRET
Published 9:49 am Monday, April 4, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
City of Albert Lea
Albert Lea, Minnesota
209TH STREET BITUMINOUS PAVING & HAPPY TRAILS LANE OVERLAY PROJECT
City Project Number: 2103
The City of Albert Lea will accept sealed bids for public opening at the office of the City Clerk, City Center, Albert Lea, Minnesota, until 3:00 PM, April 26, 2022, for furnishing all labor, material, and equipment to install the following estimated quantities:
2,242 CY Common Excavation
2,849 Tons Aggregate Base, Class 5
1,653 SY Edge Mill Bituminous Surface
676 SY Full-Width Mill Bituminous Surface
1,579 Ton Bituminous Paving
892 Gal Bituminous Tack
120 LF Concrete Curb & Gutter
BIDS CLOSE 3:00 PM, April 26, 2022
Plans, specifications, and proposals are available for electronic download at QuestCDN.com, Quest Project No. 8169555, for a $20.00 nonrefundable fee. A hardcopy of the plans, specifications, and proposals may be obtained at the office of the City Engineer, City Center, Albert Lea, Minnesota, 56007 for a $35.00 nonrefundable fee. Only listed planholders will be allowed to bid.
A certified check or bidders bond made payable to the City of Albert Lea in an amount equal to 5% of the total amount bid must accompany each proposal, such amount to be forfeited to the City in the event the bidder fails to enter into a Contract if awarded the bid.
The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive informalities, and to accept any bid deemed to be most favorable to the interests of the City.
Patrick Ian Rigg
City Manager | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/bids-e-main-street/ | BIDS/E.MAIN STREET
Published 9:48 am Monday, April 4, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
City of Albert Lea
Albert Lea, Minnesota
E. Main Street & Washington Avenue Parking Lot
Reconstruction Project
City Project Number: 2207
The City of Albert Lea will accept sealed bids for public opening at the office of the City Clerk, City Center, Albert Lea, Minnesota, until 3:00 PM, April 26, 2022, for furnishing all labor, material, and equipment to install the following estimated quantities:
2,155 SY Bituminous Pavement Removal
180 CY Common Excavation
356 Ton Bituminous Paving
216 Gal Bituminous Tack
652 Tons Aggregate Base, Class 5
109 LF Concrete Curb & Gutter
1,292 LF Paint Striping
BIDS CLOSE 3:00 PM, April 26, 2022
Plans, specifications, and proposals are available for electronic download at QuestCDN.com, Quest Project No. 8169564, for a $20.00 nonrefundable fee. A hardcopy of the plans, specifications, and proposals may be obtained at the office of the City Engineer, City Center, Albert Lea, Minnesota, 56007 for a $35.00 nonrefundable fee. Only listed plan holders will be allowed to bid.
A certified check or bidders bond made payable to the City of Albert Lea in an amount equal to 5% of the total amount bid must accompany each proposal, such amount to be forfeited to the City in the event the bidder fails to enter into a Contract if awarded the bid.
The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive informalities, and to accept any bid deemed to be most favorable to the interests of the City.
Patrick Ian Rigg
City Manager | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/board-meeting-9/ | BOARD MEETING
Published 9:47 am Monday, April 4, 2022
PUBLIC NOTICE
Shell Rock River Watershed District Board Meeting Tuesday, April 12, 2022 8:30AM Shell Rock River Watershed District office 214 W. Main St. Albert Lea, MN 56007
Albert Lea Tribune:
Apr. 2, 2022
BOARD MEETING | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/meeting-9/ | MEETING
Published 9:50 am Monday, April 4, 2022
NOTICE
The monthly meeting of the Albert Lea Housing and Redevelopment Authority will be held commencing at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 19th, 2022 in the Albert Lea HRA Conference Room, 800 4th Ave South, Albert Lea, MN 56007.
An interim agenda is available during normal business hours at Albert Lea HRA Administrative Office, 800 Fourth Avenue South, Albert Lea, MN 56007
Jeanne Leick, Executive Director | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/notice-to-voters/ | NOTICE TO VOTERS
Published 9:50 am Monday, April 4, 2022
NOTICE TO VOTERS OF MAIL BALLOT PROCEDURES
SPECIAL ELECTION FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 1
This notice is provided to voters in the following precincts:
Bath Township City of Hollandale
Carlston Township City of Manchester
City of Conger City of Myrtle
City of Geneva City of Twin Lakes
City of Hayward
Based on previous action by your city council or town board, all elections held in conjunction with a federal, state, or county election are conducted exclusively by mail. Local polling places in your city/township will not be open on Election Day.
ELECTION BALLOTS WILL BE MAILED TO ALL REGISTERED VOTERS IN THE ABOVE NOTED PRECINCTS FOR THE SPECIAL ELECTION FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 1.
For the 2022 Special Congressional District 1 Election, the election date and corresponding date that ballots will be mailed to all registered voters in mail ballot precincts by Freeborn County Elections are:
Special Congressional District 1 Primary Election: May 24, 2022
Special Congressional District 1 Primary Ballot Mailing Date: April 25, 2022
Special Congressional District 1 General Election: August 9, 2022
Special Congressional District 1 General Ballot Mailing Date: July 11, 2022
Each voter registered by 5:00 p.m. May 3, 2022 for the Special Congressional District 1 Primary Election and/or 5:00 p.m. July 19, 2022 for the Special Congressional District 1 General Election will be mailed a ballot automatically. The ballot mailed to you is your OFFICIAL BALLOT. Instructions for marking and returning the ballot for counting will be included in each mailing. Please note the instruction will require you to have a witness for voter certification at the time of completing your ballot.
Ballots are sent by non-forward able mail; therefore a registered voter who will be absent from their permanent address during the mailing period and wants to receive their ballot at a temporary address must contact our office at the address, telephone number or email address below and request an absentee ballot application; or complete an on-line absentee ballot application at http://mnvotes.org
Eligible voters who are not pre-registered by the date noted above and wish to vote in the State Election, should contact our office at the address, telephone number or email address below and request an absentee ballot application or complete an on-line absentee ballot application at http://mnvotes.org
All ballots must be returned by postage paid return mail, in person or designated agent to the address below prior to 8:00 p.m. on Election Day in order to be counted.
Ballots will be accepted Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., in addition our office will be open, Saturday, May 21, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. and August 6, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
The polling place for this election will be at the Freeborn County Government Center.
The polls will be open:
Special Congressional District 1 Primary Election: Tuesday, May 24, 2022 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Special Congressional District 1 General Election: Tuesday, August 9, 2022 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
At least one assistive voting ballot marker will be available at the polling place that permits people with disabilities to vote privately and independently.
All mail ballots will be counted after 8:00 p.m. on Election Day at the Freeborn County Government Center.
FREEBORN COUNTY AUDITOR-TREASURER’S OFFICE
GOVERNMENT CENTER
411 BROADWAY AVENUE SOUTH
ALBERT LEA, MINNESOTA 56007
If you have any questions, please contact the office at (507) 377-5121 or by fax at (507) 377-5175.
We are also available by email at elections@co.freeborn.mn.us
Pat Martinson, Freeborn County Auditor-Treasurer
Dated this 25th day of March 2022. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/public-hearing-40/ | PUBLIC HEARING
Published 9:46 am Monday, April 4, 2022
PUBLIC NOTICE
COUNTY OF FREEBORN, STATE OF MINNESOTA: Notice of public hearing and intent to consider plans for redistricting of county commissioner districts in accordance with Minnesota Statutes Section 375.025, Subd 1.
NOTICE, is given that the Freeborn County Board of County Commissioners will meet in the Freeborn County Courthouse Board Room, 411 Broadway Avenue South, in the City of Albert Lea, on April 19, 2022, at 8:45 am for the purpose of redistricting Freeborn County Commissioner Districts. Any citizen intending to submit a plan for consideration in the redistricting of Freeborn County Commissioner Districts must do so no later than Monday, April 11, 2022, at 5:00 p.m.
NOTICE, is also given that the Freeborn County Board of County Commissioners will meet in the Freeborn County Government Center, 411 Broadway Avenue, in the City of Albert Lea on April 19, 2022, for the purpose of redistricting Freeborn County Commissioner Districts.
Albert Lea Tribune:
Apr. 2 and 9, 2022
PUBLIC HEARING | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/public-hearing-41/ | PUBLIC HEARING
Published 9:47 am Monday, April 4, 2022
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Albert Lea, Minnesota, will meet at 7:00 p.m. on April 11, 2022 in the Council Chambers at City Hall in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to conduct a public hearing to consider that the City abate property taxes levied by the City on the property identified as tax parcel number (the “Property”):
Address Parcel Number
1960 Wilby Rd. 08.150.0010 (will be assigned a City PID at a later date)
Any person who constructs or rehabilitates a single-family home, duplex, or multi-family complex, files application, and obtains formal approval from the appropriate local jurisdictions between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2026 shall be eligible to receive 100% of the increment value over three years with the potential of an additional three years at 50%.
Information concerning the proposed project, including a draft copy of the abatement resolution, will be on file at City Hall on and after the date of this notice. All interested persons may appear at the public hearing and present their views orally or in writing. If unable to attend, written testimony may be offered and should be given to the Council Secretary before 5:00 p.m. on the day of the hearing.
THE CITY OF ALBERT LEA
By: s/s
Daphney Maras
City Clerk | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220404 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/meet-this-years-albert-lea-teacher-of-the-year-finalists/ | Meet this year’s Albert Lea Teacher of the Year finalists
Published 5:00 pm Monday, April 4, 2022
Albert Lea Area Schools will name the 2021-22 Teacher of the Year at 3:45 p.m. Wednesday in the Albert Lea High School Commons area. Here are the finalists:
Audra Beussman, special education, Halverson Elementary School
Beussman, who has a master’s in education as well as certificates in both other health disabilities and physical impairments, has been with the district for 25 years.
“I have had interests in coursework related to occupational therapy, physical therapy and speed pathology especially as it related to assistive technology,” Beussman said in an email. “My interests for learning more is based on the wonderful students I have learned with.”
Both Beussman and her husband are from New Ulm and have one daughter.
“We have always valued the importance of our families and enjoy spending time with them,” she said.
For her, travel currently means visiting family or going back to New Ulm.
Mary Bissen, music, high school and middle school
Bissen, who has been with the district nine years, received a Master of Science in education in teaching, learning and leadership from Southwest Minnesota State University in 2019.
Besides teaching, Bissen has directed seventh-grade show choirs and SASS (the all-female show choir at the high school) whenever her teaching assignments have allowed it. She has also taken groups into the community to sing for various events around the year.
Besides music, Bissen is in her seventh year as assistant junior varsity softball coach and is in her fourth year as Southwest Student Council adviser.
From Austin, she enjoys camping, fishing, hiking, reading, singing/playing the piano and guitar, jigsaw puzzles and spending time with family and friends.
“I consider my personal and professional goals to be very intertwined,” she said. “I strive to be a good, kind, caring, funny person, both inside and outside of the classroom. I think it’s important that — to the highest degree possible — I am the same person in front of my students that I am in front of my family/friends.”
Burke Egner, STEM teacher and technology integration coach, district/middle school
Egner, who has been with the district five years, has a master’s in education and is currently completing a career and technical education certification program at St. Cloud State.
Besides teaching, Egner is the Curriculum Team lead for the PE/Health/Elective Department at the middle school and serves as the district’s educational technology integrationist. He serves as the coach for both the middle and high school robotics teams, is the head coach for the middle school’s video game club and the lead sponsor for Southwest Active Youth, which is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, vaping and other drugs. He’s also involved in United Way of Caring and is on the Pay It Forward committee.
Egner and his wife, Lynn, have two sons, Jackson and Griffin. He enjoys playing hockey, reading and tinkering with electronics in his spare time.
One truly embarrassing moment for Egner was the time he forgot to contact local law enforcement agencies and notifying them he was having a Civil War reenactment complete with a cannon that fired blanks.
“My world was turned upside-down when news helicopters, SWAT team and three law enforcement agencies showed up at our school football field for what was reported as “bombs going off.”
Jacqui Richter, math, high school
Richter, who is in her eighth year in the district and teaches math, has a Master of Science in curriculum and instruction.
Richter has taught Goformative sessions during staff development days and leads ninth-grade meetings during professional development days. She also teaches Sunday school and confirmation classes.
Richter — who is from Albert Lea — and her husband have two children. She enjoys camping and loves “Disney and can’t wait to get back there with my littles who have never been.”
LaChelle Sandon, special education, Lakeview Elementary School
Sandon, who has been with the district 21 years, has a master’s from Southwest State University. She has also served as a mentor, lifeguarded for functional skills at the high school and has been on the crisis team at each school building, among other things. She has also helped families in need of clothes, food, money, transportation, child care, cleaning, home repair and fire clean up. And she taught a student to swim.
In her free time she enjoys biking, kayaking, swimming, fishing, playing games, telling jokes, spending time with family/friends and making crafts with her daughter, Bailey. She also has a fiancee, Robert Decker.
Her most memorable moments include having graduation parties for students who no longer need her support, having sledding parties and participating in a Christmas meal with students.
But her dream is for everyone to realize they can make a difference in people’s lives by being kind, understanding and compassionate.
She also wants to celebrate the positive moments in families’ lives. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220405 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/minnesota-house-democrats-call-for-1-15b-more-for-education/ | Minnesota House Democrats call for $1.15B more for education
Published 9:06 am Tuesday, April 5, 2022
ST. PAUL — The Minnesota House Democratic majority on Monday proposed spending $1.15 billion of the state’s $9.25 billion budget surplus on education, drawing a sharp contrast with Republicans who control the Senate and who want to cut taxes by $3.4 billion while spending just $30 million more on schools.
“With a historic budget surplus, we need to deliver for Minnesota students,” House Speaker Melissa Hortman, of Brooklyn Park, said at a news conference.
The big spending and policy bills of the 2022 legislative session are starting to come together and the deep philosophical differences between Democrats and Republicans over how to use the massive surplus portend difficult negotiations before the session is due to adjourn May 23.
The catch-all House Democratic education package would focus on mental health support for students, such as counselors and social workers, as well as special education services and English language learners.
Because of that emphasis, their package does not include the 2% increase in general per-pupil funding in the current budget that Democratic Gov. Tim Walz has proposed, said the chairman of the House Education Finance Committee, Rep. Jim Davnie, of Minneapolis.
The House Democratic plan also includes a voluntary statewide pre-kindergarten program that Democrats have long sought. And it includes $2.12 billion in new education spending for the next two-year budget, which would require approval by the 2023 Legislature.
GOP Sen. Roger Chamberlain of Lino Lakes, who chairs his chamber’s education committee, criticized the Democratic plan, saying schools have already received more than $1 billion in new state funding under the two-year budget adopted last year and $2.6 billion in federal COVID-19 relief. The centerpiece of the Senate Republican education bill is $30 million to bolster reading proficiency, with the goal of having 90% of third-graders reading at grade level.
Senate Republicans on Monday released a draft of their main tax bill for the session that, as previously announced, focuses on permanent tax cuts. It would cut income taxes for 82% of Minnesota filers by lowering the rate for the bottom tax bracket from 5.35% to 2.8%. Rates for the three highest brackets would not change.
An analysis by nonpartisan Senate staff released Monday indicates the biggest beneficiaries would be Minnesota couples earning $100,000 to $249,999 per year, who would see average cuts of around $1,200, and individual filers earning $50,000 to $149,999, who would save in the low $700s range.
The Senate GOP plan would also exempt all Social Security income from state taxes, instead of the current partial exemption that tends to benefit lower-income taxpayers. The staff analysis indicates that 86% of filers would see no savings from a full exemption, with the bulk of the benefits going to to couples earning over $100,000 and individual filers earning over $50,000.
Later Monday, House Democrats unveiled their own $1.64 billion tax cut bill. It includes tax credits of up to $3,000 for each child under age 5, capped at $7,500, and a one-time “child tax credit rebate” of $325 for each child under age 17. Seniors with an annual income under $75,000 would pay no taxes on Social Security benefits. And the bill would expand property tax refunds and credits, saving approximately 120,000 renters an average $700 and some 400,000 homeowners an average of $100.
“We’re providing targeted and significant tax cuts to make a real difference in the lives of families, workers, and senior citizens by lowering child care costs, making housing more affordable, and cutting property taxes,” House Tax Committee Chairman Paul Marquart, of Dilworth, said in a statement. “However, we can’t do any of those things if Republicans use the budget surplus to provide permanent tax cuts for millionaires and billionaires who don’t need the state’s help.”
The centerpiece of the governor’s tax plan is one-time rebates of $500 for individuals and $1,000 for couples.
Hortman said she, Walz and Senate GOP Majority Leader Jeremy Miller, of Winona, will eventually have to negotiate compromises on education, taxes and other issues behind the scenes, as well as on still-unresolved disputes over averting an unemployment insurance tax increase and bonuses for frontline workers who put themselves at risk during the pandemic.
What emerges will likely include “a little from column A, a little from column B,” the speaker said. But she acknowledged a “stark difference” between Democrats and Republicans at the moment.
“Minnesota Senate Republicans clearly believe our schools don’t need much in the way of help. … We will be working hard to persuade our Republican colleagues to join us in making these investments,” Hortman said. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220405 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/more-minnesota-poultry-flocks-infected-with-bird-flu/ | More Minnesota poultry flocks infected with bird flu
Published 9:03 am Tuesday, April 5, 2022
ST. PAUL — The bird flu is spreading to additional poultry flocks in Minnesota, according to the state Board of Animal Health.
The latest outbreak of avian influenza has now affected 13 flocks in the state, up from seven last Friday.
The newly reported cases all are in commercial turkey flocks — two in Kandiyohi County and one each in Becker, Dodge, Le Sueur and Stearns counties, Minnesota Public Radio News reported.
Previously, the bird flu was found in commercial flocks in Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle, Meeker, Morrison and Stearns counties, as well as backyard flocks in Mower and Stearns counties.
The affected flocks so far include more than 580,000 birds.
Birds in affected flocks are euthanized as part of efforts to keep the virus from spreading. The outbreak is s a serious threat to Minnesota’s turkey industry, with nearly 700 farms that raise about 40 million birds a year.
In 2015, 9 million birds in Minnesota were killed by the virus or euthanized to slow its spread.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said the avian influenza strain is a low risk to the public. No human cases of avian influenza have been detected in the U.S.
A U.S. Department of Agriculture team is helping Minnesota agencies respond to the current outbreak, including quarantining infected flocks, disease surveillance and coordinating logistics and finances. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220405 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/shirley-chase/ | Shirley Chase
Published 8:57 am Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Aug. 9, 1921 – April 2, 2022
ALBERT LEA, Minn. – Shirley Chase, 100, Albert Lea, Minn., died Saturday, April 2, in Thorne Crest Senior Living.
Arrangements by Bonnerup Funeral Service in Albert Lea. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220405 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/window-broken-out-with-hammer-and-other-reports/ | Window broken out with hammer and other reports
Published 8:56 am Tuesday, April 5, 2022
A hammer was reported thrown through a window at 2:53 a.m. Monday at 909 Janson St.
Explosion reported
Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office deputies received a report at 3:49 p.m. Monday that something had exploded at 86682 173rd St. in Austin.
2 arrested on warrants
Police arrested Ashley Rose Dunkleberger, 24, on a warrant at 12:21 a.m. Monday at 404 Fountain St.
Police arrested John Edward Carlson, 59, on a Mower County warrant and fifth-degree possession at 11:32 a.m. Monday at 2222 E. Main St.
1 arrested for trespassing
Police arrested Niurka Pino Morales, 50, for trespassing at 10:40 p.m. Monday at 2214 E. Main St. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220405 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/paul-luther-groth/ | Paul Luther Groth
Published 11:56 am Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Paul Luther Groth, age 85, of Ellendale, MN passed away on April 4, 2022.
Paul was born on November 18, 1936, to Oscar and Alice Groth in Mason City, IA. He attended school in Mason City until moving to Ellendale in 1953. He graduated from Ellendale-Geneva high school in 1954. Paul went to Waldorf college.
Paul married Mary (Bartsch) on December 16, 1956. He worked briefly at Wilson’s in Albert Lea, MN. Upon his father’s death, Paul went to work laying floors for his mother. He and Mary bought Groth Furniture and Floor Covering in 1967. For the next 40 years, the two of them built up a strong business. Paul was a huge part of the flooring side of the business, doing installations and sales. Paul was active in the community as he served on the city council for 38 years. He was a charter member of the Ellendale Lions, belonged to the Ellendale Commercial Club, and belonged to Community Lutheran Church where he did numerous things within the church. Paul enjoyed fishing, the MN Vikings, and a good card game.
Paul is survived by his sons, Scott (Joni) and Chuck (Jean); sister-in-law, Jean Groth; brother-in-law, Harold (Bernice) Bartsch; sisters-in-law, Jean Ahlstrom and Darlene Bartsch; grandchildren, Allison (Chad) Muilenburg, Ben and Abe Groth and Laura (Maliory) Bebeau; 10 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary; parents, Oscar and Alice; brothers, Raymond and Dale; mother and father-in-law Magdeline and Lawrence Bartsch; sisters-in-law, Nancy Groth, Margaret Bartsch, Mavis Bartsch; brothers-in-law, Don and Cliff Bartsch and nephews, Mike and Rick Groth.
Visitation 4:00 – 7:00 pm, Wednesday, April 6, 2022, at Bonnerup Funeral Home, Albert Lea, MN. Memorial Service 1:00 pm, Thursday, April 7, 2022, at Community Lutheran Church, Ellendale, MN with visitation beginning at 12:00 pm. Interment will be at Geneva Cemetery. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220405 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/steven-eric-westrum/ | Steven Eric Westrum
Published 11:56 am Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Steven Eric Westrum of Bloomington, MN endlessly fought, but peacefully departed this world at the age of 75 on the morning of March 30, 2022, at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.
Steve was born on February 10, 1947, in Albert Lea, MN to the late Kathryn Elaine (Adams) Westrum and the late Kenith Ellsworth Westrum. In many ways, the experiences he had in his youth shaped him into the amazing man he was for his family and friends. He will be remembered by many as a fun-loving, caring, generous, selfless, hard-working, charismatic, young-hearted, and all-around special person.
Steve graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1965 and Waldorf College in Forest City, IA in 1967 before following the love of his life, Vicki Leah (Kenis) Westrum to Mankato State, Mankato, MN and earning his bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 1969, when he jokingly set his early career goals of wearing a tie to work and making at least $10,000 per year. Steve and Vicki were married on June 21, 1969. Shortly afterwards he was called for service to his country and was drafted into the US Army as an Aircraft Controller in Seoul, South Korea. He had a lifelong career in Human Resources working at King-Seeley Corporation in Albert Lea, MN, Miller Brewing Company in Milwaukee, WI, and United Healthcare and Lifetouch both in Minneapolis, MN.
Throughout his 52-year marriage to Vicki, Steve learned how to love without limits, to be a partner, and best friend. In his three sons, he learned how to be a father, friend, role model, and mentor. Through his three daughters-in-law, he learned that he could love others as if they were his own children. In his six grandchildren, he found his calling and purpose; a uniquely special bond with each, personalized with care, support, and unconditional love. From his late beloved in-laws, Gemetha “Jimmie” and Charles Kenis, he learned some of life’s greatest lessons.
Steve’s legacy is truly written in the hearts of his loving wife Vicki, their sons and daughters-in-laws Brad and Carrie (Schneider), Mark and Kelly (Nelson), and Brett and Megan (Heald) and their grandchildren Kaden, Tanner, Colin, Camryn, Drew, and Brooklyn Westrum. His love, guidance, adventure seeking, and fun-loving humor will live within them all forever.
Steve is also survived by his cherished nieces and nephews, special in-laws Michael and Peggy Kenis and lifelong friends, Richard Rovang, Ted Koenecke and Robert Backes. He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law Gregory Kenis.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations of blood and to a Cancer charity of your choice.
Steve’s celebration of life will be held at a later date as he requested to give his body to research advancement at the Mayo Clinic. Notification forthcoming. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220405 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/5-things-to-do-this-week-egg-hunt-fish-fry-craft-show-and-more/ | 5 things to do this week: Egg hunt, fish fry, craft show and more
Published 9:00 pm Tuesday, April 5, 2022
1
Presentation
Venture Upwards, a free kindergarten through eighth grade program that partners with public schools and is designed to provide funding for families to purchase educational resources, is having an informational meeting from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at Albert Lea City Arena, located at 701 Lake Chapeau Drive. Bring the children for free ice skating. For more information, or if you want more information but can’t come, contact Kelley McGinnis at kmcginnis@ventureupward.org
2
Fish fry fundraiser
Starting at 5 p.m. Friday, the Ellendale Fire Department is having a fish fry fundraiser. The all-you-care-to-eat meal includes fried battered cod, firehouse beans, coleslaw, refreshments and a small amount of chicken strips. All proceeds from the free will donation meal will go to the Ellendale Fire Relief Association and are used to purchase tools and equipment to help them better serve the community. The fire department is at 705 Second St. in Ellendale.
3
Networking
Thinking about purchasing a home can be exciting and overwhelming. Fortunately, Arcadian Bank mortgage lenders are offering a seminar to help answer questions and to clarify the mortgage loan process. The seminar is from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at 1452 W. Main St. The networking event is free, and refreshments are provided.
4
Craft and vendor show
The Spring Craft and Vendor Show will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Northbridge Mall. Several crafters and vendors will exhibit a variety of items, including jewelry, kitchen items, books, antiques, candles and more. The one-day event is free to the public, so stop by and browse the wide variety of crafters and vendors scheduled to be there.
5
Egg hunt
United Methodist Church of Albert Lea will have an Easter egg hunt from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Doors open at 1 p.m, with the hunt starting for children 3 to 6 at 2:45 p.m., while those 7 and older start at 3 p.m.
Besides the hunt, other activities, including face painting, crafts and a bouncy house, will be available. Remember to arrive by 2:30 p.m. to get checked in. Cost is free, but pre-register here . Bring a bag for eggs. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220406 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/al-batt-it-surely-was-not-a-morel-mushroom-cloud-that-day/ | Al Batt: It surely was not a morel mushroom cloud that day
Published 8:46 pm Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Tales from Exit 22 by Al Batt
That’s no way for the weather to make friends.
A tornado hit my hometown on Dec. 15.
When I was a kid, we joked about a terrible explosion in town. The wind blew up the street. The tornado was no joke. It was frightening.
I remember another frightening day in that fair city. Life was like it is today—considered by some to be the worst time ever. I was a young boy with brains of mush furthering my education at a grade school famed for producing Fulbright, Marshall, Rhodes, Goldwater and Truman scholars. No, wait, that was a different school.
It was there I was instructed what to do in the case of an atomic bomb attack — put my head under my desk. Duck and cover. Those desks were indestructible. My melon found the company of petrified chewing gum comforting. I thought the best defense against the bomb was to be in bed when it went off. The bomb was scarier than the legendary bogeyman or brigades of hobgoblins and banshees. No one I knew, including me, had ever seen a bogeyman, hobgoblin or banshee, but I had seen the bomb. We were regularly shown an heirloom filmstrip about the bomb. The filmstrip, passed down from generation to generation, invariably burned in two and another splice was added to the numerous fixes already in place, making it possible for the film to pass through the projector. The filmstrip was poorly done, with monotone voices droning on about the effects of the bomb in a matter-of-fact way and the grafts adding a stutter. Even with those weaknesses, it was the most terrifying film I’d ever seen. I saw the flick so many times, I had it memorized. Even after seeing the film so often, it shocked me each time the mushroom cloud appeared on my classroom screen. One day, as the image of the mushroom cloud was on the screen, that screen decided, all on its own, to roll itself back up into its metal case. Whoosh, flap, flap, flap! It scared us poor, innocent children out of three years of life. Frantic hands were raised to request urgent visits to the lavatories.
We had another recurrent happening. The fire drill. We practiced regularly what we’d do in case the tater tot hot dish in the lunchroom should catch fire. I knew what I’d do. I’d get a day off school. Our teacher told us we were to rise slowly from our desks, making sure all our instruments of learning were properly stored within our desks, and then we were to form a nice, straight line in the aisles. From that point, upon our fearless teacher’s signal, we were to exit the room in a calm and orderly fashion. Yes, that was what we were supposed to do.
On another day, while I had my face buried in a riveting Dick and Jane book — I had suspected Sally to be the guilty party right from the start — I was unaware because we didn’t have cellphones then, that just a few blocks away, a fertilizer tank at a local elevator had a brief, but hot encounter with a grain dryer and exploded with such incredible heat it scorched the paint off a highway patrol car. The officer had brought a truck onto the scale to see if it was overweight. The explosion was loud enough to rattle the windowpanes of my grade school. I looked up from my book — poor Dick, he was put upon — towards the sounding glass.
Then I saw it. It wasn’t a morel mushroom, which hadn’t yet been named the state mushroom. It was a mushroom cloud like the one I had seen in the crummy filmstrip. There was one big difference. This one was real. Someone somewhere was saying, “I told you this would happen.”
My stomach found a place in my throat as I watched flames lick the sky.
I panicked. My Dick and Jane book went flying. I didn’t know whether I should put my head under my desk or become part of a calm, uniform line leaving the hallowed halls.
I decided to run screaming from the school — just like I did every other day.
Al Batt’s columns appear in the Tribune every Wednesday. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220406 |
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Albert Lea takes on Blue Earth Area
Published 6:07 pm Tuesday, April 5, 2022
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Albert Lea senior Adam Semple plays during a match Friday against Blue Earth Area Schools. The Tigers lost 0-7. Photo courtesy Laura Mae Photography
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Albert Lea’s Yoon siblings make waves on the ice
Olympic gold medalist banking more NCAA success
Gymnasts compete over weekend
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https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/albert-leas-yoon-siblings-make-waves-on-the-ice/ | Albert Lea’s Yoon siblings make waves on the ice
Published 6:09 pm Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Pair has played hockey since elementary school
By James Sanchez, for the Tribune
As the hockey season has since concluded in Albert Lea with the Albert Lea Tigers boys team finishing with a strong showing and the Albert Lea Tigers girls team making it to state for the first time ever, the Albert Lea Tribune was able to catch up with the pair of siblings that was an integral part of that push: the Yoon siblings.
Joseph Yoon and Esther Yoon are a pair of Korean siblings that began hockey at an early age. Joseph, who started in the second grade and Esther, who began in the first grade, stated that hockey almost runs in their blood, as they also have an older brother who was heavily involved as a hockey player and has since found his passion for music.
Joseph said his journey into the arena started when his father brought him to Lakeview Park’s outdoor rink.
He stated ever since that day, he only wanted to get better and fully immersed himself into the game. He immediately began to try out for higher level teams such as the squirt team, and despite not making it on the team the first time, he decided not to quit.
After two years of dedicating himself to this sport, he began to persevere, which has translated into him being a key part of the Albert Lea High School boys hockey team.
Joseph will be entering his senior year knowing that he will continue to get better and give all his effort, as he has state on his mind.
Joseph also states that his journey in the arena will not stop there, as he looks to continue playing into his collegiate years and see what opportunities come his way, all the while thinking about a degree in sport medicine.
Esther’s journey, on the other hand, started in a different fashion. Esther began playing hockey in the first grade while also being involved with figure skating. After the first year, she was given a choice by her parents to commit to one sport, as they understood the intensity required with such dedication. Esther, of course, chose hockey and Albert Lea has definitely benefited from that decision as she was a key cog to the Albert Lea Tigers making it to state for the first time this year. Esther, however, has decided that her journey in this arena has ended as she will not be pursuing hockey into her collegiate life next year, as she has dedicated herself to her studies and is pondering about being a physician.
All of the success that these siblings have already had doesn’t just come from hard work, dedication and the commitment to hockey, although that is certainly a large part of it. The Yoon siblings also made sure to speak about the commitment their parents made in them, as well.
Whether it was buying DVDs so that they could learn the game themselves or having synthetic ice in their basement for them to practice on, they certainly appreciate how much support they have had from their parents. The investment the parents have made in their children has already shown to be fruitful.
When the Yoon siblings are not crushing it on the ice, they take the opportunity to pursue other interests. Joseph is into playing his guitar and making worship songs while Esther has taken a large interest in different languages. They also like to simply relax and just unwind with friends.
This, however, is for certain: The competition shouldn’t relax as Joseph is already practicing for next season. And alongside The Albert Lea Tigers hunger for state, the competition should be put on notice. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220406 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/ask-a-trooper-what-do-you-do-if-your-vehicle-is-in-water/ | Ask a Trooper: What do you do if your vehicle is in water?
Published 8:45 pm Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Ask a Trooper by Troy Christianson
Question: I saw your recent article about flooded roads. Do you have any advice on what a person should do if their vehicle plunges into the water?
Answer: The dynamics of such an incident are ever-changing, so there is no one answer that will cover it all. Having witnessed and responded to these types of situations, here is what I would recommend.
Most vehicles will float on the water’s surface for 30 to 60 seconds. If your vehicle enters deep water, make every attempt to get out immediately. If possible, exit the vehicle through open windows before the water reaches the window level.
If your vehicle becomes submerged, try not to panic. Vehicle doors cannot be opened until water pressure inside the car is equal to that pressure outside. When the vehicle is completely filled, doors can be opened, if there is no structural damage.
The engine’s weight will cause the front end of the car to sink first. The rear passenger compartment may provide an air pocket while you plan your escape strategy. If there are other people in the vehicle, determine their condition and try to exit the vehicle together.
I would advise everyone to take swimming lessons. This is a life skill that can save your life and the life of someone else.
You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths.
If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, at 2900 48th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901-5848. (Or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us)
Troy Christianson is a sergeant with the Minnesota State Patrol. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220406 |
https://www.albertleatribune.com/2022/04/ask-score-more-women-should-start-small-businesses/ | Ask SCORE: More women should start small businesses
Published 8:45 pm Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Ask SCORE by Dean Swanson
We are experiencing a growth of women-owned small business entrepreneurs and are currently serving more requests for mentoring from these CEOs. However, my task in today’s column is to encourage more women to consider this opportunity. I will share with you the recent work of one of SCORE’s content partners who is an example of this demographic. Rieva Lesonsky is president and CEO of GrowBiz Media, a custom content and media company focusing on small business and entrepreneurship, and the blog SmallBusinessCurrents.com. She introduces herself and shares some compelling arguments and data why more women should consider this opportunity.
Lesonky states she started her business 14 years ago because “I was tired of making money for a company that didn’t fully value my worth or treat its employees particularly well. I can imagine that some of you started your business for similar reasons. But, of course, many women small business owners had different motivators for starting a business.”
An interesting survey, Elevating Female Entrepreneurs, conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Office Depot, reveals that 33% of female small business owners were motivated to start their businesses to inspire other women. Women of color were even more dedicated to “inspiring other women,” with 39% saying that’s why they became entrepreneurs and 82% of those adding they wanted to be successful so they could show other people “it’s possible to overcome stigmas.”
Startup challenges
Of course, starting a business is not an easy task — it’s filled with roadblocks, hurdles and other challenges. The women surveyed were no exception. Their toughest challenges:
• 47% lacked funds
• 58% mainly had problems with high startup costs
• 39% said equipment/maintenance fees were their most significant financial challenge
• 38% struggled with trying to maintain a work-life balance
• 35% had issues with marketing
• 32% said it was difficult to grow
• 29% cited networking as their biggest challenge
Women of color had other challenges as well. More than half (53%) of those surveyed felt they didn’t have enough resources during their startup journey. And 40% felt that at least some of the challenges they encountered were “related to discrimination or bias against race/ethnicity.” Also, 42% felt they were denied opportunities based on race/ethnicity that would have helped their business.
Becoming an entrepreneur was not a sudden whim for these women — 84% said they had dreams of starting their own business “as long as they could remember.” And 80% began their companies based on a hobby or other “activity they were already passionate about.” The COVID-19 pandemic motivated 61% of the newer women entrepreneurs surveyed (those who started in the past two years) to start a business.
And 61% of the women overall and 71% of women of color were so motivated they worked a day job while starting so they could save enough money to open their business full-time.
The women business owners said it would have helped them to have more access to resources, such as cash grants (38%) or marketing materials (29%) when starting up.
The rewards of business ownership
Despite these struggles and challenges, 73% of the women surveyed believe it’s easier for a woman to become a successful business owner today than years ago.
As business owners, you know there are highs and lows. That’s been true for me — luckily, the good times outnumber the bad. And 81% of the women in the survey agree, saying that owning a business has been an “overall positive experience.”
The most rewarding aspects of being a small business owner were:
• Being your boss — 66%
• Watching your business grow — 40%
• Putting an idea into action — 36%
• Work-life balance — 25%
• Inspiring other women — 24%
The power of mentorship
Since you’re reading this in the SCORE column, many of you have experienced the positive power of mentorship. These women agree — 36% currently have a female mentor or role model in the business world. This is especially true for women of color, who, according to the survey, were almost 1.5 times more likely to have a mentor than Caucasian women (42% vs. 29%).
Overall, 75% of the women business owners who had been mentored credited that mentor with the success of their business. If you don’t already have a SCORE mentor, that stat should convince you of the value of getting one as soon as possible if you are wanting to start a business or if you already are in business, to keep growing your business!
Dean L. Swanson is a volunteer certified SCORE mentor and former SCORE chapter chair, district director and regional vice president for the northwest region. | true | true | both | www.albertleatribune | 20220406 |
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