Editorial: Thumbs

Published Saturday, November 14, 2009

Up -To Albert Lea Medical Center.

The community gives its gratitude to the medical center for getting the ball rolling at the Vitality Center in downtown Albert Lea. The gift of $27,000, along with donations from others, gives momentum to the vision. Successful projects always seem to have a successful start.

DOWN - To drug and alcohol abuse.

This tale is the precise reason why people should abstain from drug abuse and drink only in moderation.

Nicolle Marie Mercedes Prechel, 31, was sentenced to six years in prison Thursday. Drunk on whiskey and high on marijuana on July 5, she had backed over a tent at Beaver Falls Park in Renville County. The car killed 3-month-old Whyatt James Sander and injured his mother.

The Associated Press wrote: “Prechel sobbed as she apologized to the baby’s parents and family during sentencing in Renville County District Court.”

The judge said, “She did intend to use alcohol and knew it was a violation of her probation. The result was predictable.”

Sadly, the baby was the son of her cousin. Let’s hope the chemical-dependency treatment center at the Shakopee prison gives her the help she apparently needs.

UP - To cast and crews of various plays.

It’s not easy to get up on stage and act out a plot. Yet local actors make it look easy. And their success comes with thanks to great stage crews and directors. This thumbs up comes from us and from appreciative audiences.

Bravo!

Now playing: Albert Lea Community Theatre’s “Breaking Legs.”

Starting this coming week: Albert Lea High School’s “Seussical the Musical” and Alden-Conger’s one-acts: “Kiss Me Quick — I’m Double-Parked” and “The Mystery of Mouldy Manor.”

Coming Thanksgiving weekend: The Lighthouse Event Center’s production of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.”

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