To agreements reached in union contracts for both the nurses and food service employees at Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea.

We were pleased to see this week that agreements were reached for both the nurses and food service employees at Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea.

The nurses, represented by the Minnesota Nurses Association, reached a three-year nursing contract with Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea and Austin, and the food services employees, represented by the Service Employees International Union, reached a five-year contract with Morrison Healthcare.

Both unions have struggled over reaching an agreement, so we are happy to see that a compromise was made.

To the legacy of Denny Brue.

Though we were sad to hear of the death of Albert Lean Denny Brue, we are pleased to see that his legacy will continue on through his son, Jeremy.

Denny Brue established a faithful following 40 years ago selling famous corn dogs out of what has since become known as the Weenie Wagon. He or his family could be found at almost every community festival in town.

Before that, he owned Grandpa Brue’s Pancakes and owned and operated B&B Cafe.

We hope the Brue family knows the impact their loved one made on the community, not only through his food but also his smiles and friendly nature.

To a fire this week at Trail’s Travel Center.

Staff at the Tribune were finishing up the newspaper Monday night when they heard the call come over the scanner of a fire at Trail’s Travel Center. Used by both local residents and travelers, the truck stop has become a landmark in Albert Lea, so we were naturally surprised and saddened.

By the time a staff member arrived, the Albert Lea Fire Department had extinguished the visible flames, though much of the area was blocked off to the public.

We were glad to see the fire was contained to the roof overhang on a portion of the building and that the fire was not worse. The company was able to reopen for customers the next day.

To the Shinefest Tractor Ride and the Shinefest Week of Service.

Today is the ninth annual Shinefest Tractor Ride, which raises money for the organization’s week of service. Thanks to all who participate in this fundraiser, which helps provide entertainment for area senior living complexes and ultimately helps strengthen our community.