To someone attempting to impersonate United Way officials.

It was sad to hear an email has been set out under the United Way name, asking for information for a holiday drive.

It’s bad enough to have anyone taken advantage of like that, let alone an organization such as the United Way that does a lot of good for the community. The email included spelling errors, all lowercase words and poor grammar, so it was easy to identify, even though it states it came from someone tied to the organization.

We encourage people to not share any information if you receive a suspicious email and to report that to the United Way office and the Albert Lea Police Department.

 

To the Shell Rock River Watershed District’s dredge and equipment being put up for auction.

We are glad to hear that the Watershed District’s 2010 IMS 7012 Versi dredge and equipment has been posted on heavy equipment auction site.

The district purchased the dredge in 2012 for $340,000, while pumps, piping and other equipment cost an added $435,000. The dredge has not been used since it was bought.

We hope the district will be able to recoup a large portion of this cost and look forward to its hopeful sale.

 

To two residential fires in the area in the last week.

Two homes were destroyed by fire in the last week — the first in Albert Lea and the second in New Richland.

Our hearts go out to the families who lost their homes, and though it will not be easy, we hope you are able to pick up the pieces from these tragedies with the community’s help.

With increased risks for fires in the winter, we ask residents also to take extra precaution to keep their homes safe during these cold months. Winter brings about an increase of heating, lighting and cooking, which can sometimes lead to fires. Monitor space heaters carefully, leave heating devices at least 3 feet away from anything combustible. Check cords for frays or breaks, and vent any heating appliance with an open flame outside. Make sure wood stoves are properly ventilated and that chimneys are inspected before burning each heating season. Above all, make sure you have smoke detectors and that they are working properly.

 

To a new partnership that led to the opening of a boutique in the Dinah’s Style building.

It’s fun to see four business owners collaborate in the community to open a new store called The Boutique at Dinah’s Style. The space is shared by Zyia Active, Camy Couture and Homestead Design.

It’s exciting to see more and more small businesses expanding in the community, and we wish them the best success. We hope the boutique is something that will stick around for a long time.