To some relief from the heat.

The area was under a heat advisory this week, thanks to some storms and heat waves bringing overwhelming humidity to the area. Dew points were projected to be from the mid-70s to lower 80s, and heat indices ranged from 105 to 115 degrees to form a heightened risk of heat illnesses. While some rain is in the coming weather forecast, the area is projected to get some much-welcome relief from the heat.

 

To Dennis Glassel for filling in as interim deputy fire chief.

Dennis Glassel has filled in for the better part of this month for a fellow firefighter to help keep the Albert Lea Fire Department flowing. Glassel, a 15-year veteran of the Fire Department, has served as interim deputy fire chief for Jeff Laskowske, who has been on leave since July 5 after being diagnosed with cancer. Laskowske is expected to return to light duty on Monday.

We commend Glassel and the rest of the Fire Department staff for stepping up and helping out while Laskowske takes some time.

 

To National Parents Day.

National Parents Day, observed in the United States on the fourth Sunday in July, is a day to honor your parents. Show appreciation to them and celebrate family. To all the parents out there, happy Parents Day, and thank you to those who are positive role models in their children’s lives and in the community as a whole.

 

To apparent issues within the Albert Lea School Board.

There have been several reports of unpleasant discourse between members of the Albert Lea School Board over the past months. While we understand that it’s natural for people to disagree, we’re disappointed to see that the School Board seems to have become divided in its meetings as of late. We hope the School Board can become more unified, especially in what should be its common goal: the betterment of Albert Lea’s schools and education standards in order to provide area students with the best education possible.

 

To the Art and Healing Day for Sophie event.

There will be an Art and Healing Day for Sophie on July 30 at The Meraki Studios in downtown Albert Lea. The event is in memory of 8-year-old Sophie Stultz, who died in a bicycle accident on July 2.

The event will be scheduled in two parts. Parents who would like their children to participate in the grief group portion from 1 to 2 p.m. July 30 at The Meraki Studios need to register in advance at www.themerakistudios.com. Children throughout the community are invited to stop by between the hours of 2 to 4 p.m. to enjoy an afternoon of arts and crafts at the studio, as well.

We think this event is a wonderful way to both honor Sophie’s memory and to help those — especially children — work through their grief in a healthy way.