UP — To the Albert Lea/New Richland bowling team.

The team of eight high school bowlers beat United South Central, Mankato West and Owatonna at Holiday Lanes at a tournament last weekend to advance to the state tournament. Way to go! Bowling might not get a lot of spectators, but bowlers take solace in the fact that bowling has high marks for participation worldwide. It is more of a participatory sport than a spectator sport.

The Minnesota state high school tournament is Dec. 4 at Midway Pro Bowl in St. Paul.

DOWN — To the culture of contention.

So many Americans these days seem to root for Republicans or Democrats like they are rooting for pro football teams. It’s not about the issues or the people affected or civil discourse anymore. It seems U.S. politics simply is about winning and losing at all costs. Party members are apologists for their politicians — no matter how wrong the action really might be — and denigrators of politicians belonging to the other side — with little regard for the truth or facts. In fact, this culture of contention is helping the people on the far left and far right get their way more and more and is harming the representation of the sensible people in the center.

UP — To Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen, Security Bank Minnesota and Anytime Fitness.

Congratulations to these three companies for winning Large Business of the Year, Medium Business of the Year and Small Business of the Year last week at the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce’s annual banquet. It is quite an honor for all three. All three have hard workers and are involved in the community. They deserve it. Looking for something to do on Monday? Try this: Buy some Mrs. Gerry’s brand mashed potatoes, open a savings account at Security Bank Minnesota, then go running on a treadmill at Anytime Fitness. Remember, when you shop, it’s good to keep in mind the businesses that participate in the local community.