On Saturday, June 26, I had the opportunity to participate in the Corey Goodnature Memorial Golf Outing for the first time. I was totally moved by the opening ceremony that included tributes to Corey and our entire U.S. Armed Forces.

After returning home that evening my neighborhood experienced some devasting weather with winds estimated at 75 to 80 mph. Without power it was difficult to survey any damage following the storm due to total darkness. Finally, early Sunday morning, when it started to become light out, I was able to view the repercussions, and it was a pretty incredible site.

Thankfully, no one was hurt.

Again, a lot of emotions ran through my mind.

What transpired after the fact was quite amazing. Local law enforcement, city officials, family, neighbors and the general public were all eager to offer their support. It was a bit overwhelming.

At this time I would like to thank the following for their hard work, support and assistance over the past 48 hours to myself and family. In no particular order: Our Lord, the Goodnature family, Green Lea, Wedgewood, JB Group, neighbors, police and firefighters, KAAL, KIMT, Salvation Army, Alliant Energy, city of Albert Lea (especially Steve Jahnke, Mitch Hanson and his crew), Joel, Teresa and Sam Matheson, Alek Smed, Brady Falk, Todd Ulve, Robert Heideman, Mike Peterson and all others who volunteered to help.

The USA is a great country; don’t take it for granted. Albert Lea is a great community; don’t take it for granted.

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July,

Steve Falk

Albert Lea