Rebecca Yannish told a gathering in Albert Lea Saturday she would dedicate herself to developing a better work force to lift communities in Greater Minnesota.

Saturday, April 07, 2001

Rebecca Yannish told a gathering in Albert Lea Saturday she would dedicate herself to developing a better work force to lift communities in Greater Minnesota.

Yannish, the newly appointed Commissioner of the Department of Trade and Economic Development, was the featured speaker at a American Association of University Women luncheon at the Elks Lodge. In a 20-minute speech, she outlined her vision of economic development for rural cities and towns in the state.

As a candidate for U.S. Senate last year, Yannish said she had the chance to travel around the state discussing economic issues. She was struck by the differences between the Metro area and the rest of the state.

&uot;There are many corners of our state that have been devastated by loss of income,&uot; Yannish said. &uot;With problems in the farm economy, many communities are struggling to hold together.&uot;