Hero: John Schulz

Secret identity: avid bicyclist (and anesthesiologist)

Base of operations: streets of Albert Lea (and ALMC)

Superpowers: diverse and extensive interests

Kryptonite: diverse and extensive interests

Affiliations: wife, Sheila; children Robert, Kyle, Kalia, Alaina, Galen and Riley; grandchildren Sophia and Isobel

Origin: Schulz practices medicine, was in the military and managed the Space Shuttle’s Medical Operations program. He likes to fly airplanes, sail and has a strong interest in health and fitness, particularly skiing, hiking, backpacking and biking. “These are reflected in my decision making and lifestyle choices,” he said.

The Vitality Project in 2009 had many committees. Schulz was the leader of the bicycling committee, which ultimately proposed the bike lane for Front Street. The Albert Lea City Council approved the bike lane in November.

“It is a pleasure working with John on projects involving biking in Albert Lea and Freeborn County. He has such a positive attitude and passion for everything he does, and his enthusiasm is contagious. John’s long-term vision for bicycle transportation is not just about the safety of cyclists; it is about the health and well being of the entire community. We are very fortunate to have John leading our efforts to make Albert Lea a more bike friendly place to live and work.”
— Lynn Scheevel

“John is a lifelong learner and a forward-thinking man. He has a passion for healthy lifestyle choices and for having fun. So naturally the bicycle piece of the Vitality Project is a perfect fit. If something is good for the individual and good for the community, John will be involved!”
— Sheila Schulz

“Being personally involved with the Vitality Project restaurant initiative and as an avid bike trail user, I got to know John and love his passion to bring more bike trails to Albert Lea. It is wonderful to see him champion a cause that makes Albert Lea a healthier place to live.”
— Matt VanVoltenberg

“I consider john to be a trusted physician colleague, patient advocate and a friend. John is a wonderful asset to the community for these reasons and more: John is a true patron of Albert Lea and a community member who advocates for the betterment of the city and his fellow citizens. He is a champion of not just civic pride and quality of life but also truly for the improvement of the health of the residents of Albert Lea. He and Sheila are truly outstanding additions to our town.”
— Dieter Heinz

“John has been an avid biker for many years and is passionate about active living and its health benefits. Unlike so many of us, John took that passion and acted upon it in a very public venue. For the benefit of his community and our collective health; John supported, urged, planned, recommended and educated us on what it takes to create a bikable community. He took his individual passion and acted upon it in a big way. We all have a passion that we can share and people like John challenge us to do so in a big way.”
— Ellen Kehr

“John is a great leader both at the Albert Lea Medical Center where we work together and now in our community. He is passionate about biking in Albert Lea and can be found riding his bike to work often. He is a big advocate of safety while riding. The more safe places to ride, the more people will bike. We are lucky to have John to promote health and wellness for the citizens of our community as it will  benefit us and our families in the future! Thanks, John!”
— Jody Ellertson