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To Albert Lea entrepreneur and Daisy Blue Naturals founder Jena Thompson.

Albert Lea businesswoman Jena Thompson saw a need, and she is stepping up to the plate now to do what she can to alleviate it.

Thompson, CEO and chemist for Daisy Blue Naturals, is shifting operations at her business to make hand sanitizer for residents and area businesses staying open during the COVID-19 pandemic, who are otherwise having a difficult time finding the product.

We appreciate Thompson using her knowledge and talents to fill this need.

Albert Lea is made up of a lot of talented entrepreneurs, and we thank them for being creative at this time of uncertainty and doing what they can to offer solutions when possible.

 

To negative economic impacts already being seen as a result of COVID-19.

Whether it is reduced business, permanent or temporary company closures, or even layoffs, the COVID-19 pandemic is already taking its toll on Freeborn County.

We are sad each day to hear of more negative effects coming out of the situation, but we know in many of these cases, there is nothing that could have been done to change the outcome.                                 

We encourage residents to keep an eye on fellow community members who may be experiencing employment instability at this time and encourage them to take advantage of the resources that have been approved on the federal and state levels.

Though we won’t be able to see the full effects of this pandemic until it is over, we know it will likely affect our community for months, if not years, to come.

 

To Albert Lea Area Schools teachers and administrators.

We heard nothing but positive comments this week about Albert Lea Area Schools teachers and administrators, who have been working around the clock to get plans in place for distance learning to begin on Monday.

Parents and students picked up district learning supplies on Wednesday and Thursday at the various schools, and parents said the process went seamlessly.

We know the coming weeks will be an adjustment for both teachers and students, but we encourage everyone alike to remain committed to doing their part to make it a success.

While it will be different than what most students have experienced before, there are still many opportunities for growth, and we hope all recognize this possibility. Thanks for doing your part.