To organizers of the Albert Lea Holiday Bazaar.

Thanks to all the people who organized the Holiday Bazaar in downtown Albert Lea Thursday evening, spreading the cheer of the season and encouraging people to get out and enjoy our downtown.

There were all kinds of activities, ranging from trolley rides, photos with Santa Claus, a live Nativity, sledding, shopping, face painting and crafts, among others.

These kinds of events make our downtown a destination, create great exposure for businesses and, most importantly, help residents have fun.

We appreciate the planning and hard work that went into making this a reality.

 

To Halverson Elementary School’s new gym.

Congratulations to the present and future students of Halverson Elementary School, who will now be able to enjoy a full-size gymnasium, thanks to the referendum that passed in 2018.

The gym will provide expanded opportunities not only to the school’s students, but also youth sports groups, who will be able to use the space outside of school hours. 

The cost of the Halverson improvements were $2.86 million, and included not only the new gym, but also construction of new offices at the front of the building, enhanced security measures, new restrooms and a new special education classroom.

Not only is the school safer, but it is now more equitable compared to the other elementary schools in the district.

 

To behavior by a former St. John’s Lutheran Community nursing assistant.

A former St. John’s Lutheran Community employee pleaded guilty Friday to disorderly conduct while working as a certified nursing assistant against a vulnerable adult in September at the Albert Lea nursing home.

The resident was admitted to the facility with diagnosis of a stroke, aphasia and paralysis on the left side of the body, as well as diabetes, major depression disorder and generalized anxiety, along with behavioral disturbances and cognitive deficits due to a vascular disorder.

When incidents like these occur in the community, it brings to light the question of whether cameras are needed in nursing homes and reaffirms the importance of passing tougher laws for people who commit inappropriate or hurtful acts against the elderly.

These elderly members of society have spent many years in service to others, many raising families and contributing to the community, and are at these types of facilities simply because of the natural affects of aging and because they need higher levels of care.

We encourage all to be advocates in protecting these vulnerable members of the community who always deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.