For those who haven’t used this Memorial Day weekend as a chance for a vacation out of town, there’s a great opportunity to take part in some important events on Monday here in Albert Lea and Freeborn County.

The traditional activities are planned at Graceland Cemetery and elsewhere in the city, as well as in just about every other town in the area. Judging from past observances of this holiday, these events will be worth attending.

Memorial Day weekend is more than just the unofficial start of the summer season, although it has come to mean that for many. It’s also a time to honor those who have perished, whether they are veterans we never knew who died in service to our country, or our own relatives or friends who have left us. It’s a time for patriotism and reverence.

With services at many cemeteries and a parade in Albert Lea, these themes will be on display for all who are willing to come. You can find all the information about when and where these observances are planned in this edition of the Tribune.

At the least, take a moment Monday to think about the meaning of the holiday and how our lives may be different if not for the sacrifices of those who came before us.