Impact 2009 publishes in the Albert Lea Tribune next month. It is a handy publication that Albert Leans — from business owners to government officials — use as a reference in many ways but especially to explain to outsiders much of the change in business and industry that has happened in Freeborn County in the past year.

Here’s a hint of what’s to come: This year’s cover story will look at the changes in meeting places. From banquet halls to clubhouses, there have been many headlines in the past year about closes and openings. From the Elks Club to Wedgewood Cove and from the Albert Lea Inn to the Moose Lodge and from Diamond Jo Casino to the Americas Best Value Inn, the places to meet in and around Albert Lea are changing.

Of course, Impact will feature businesses of various sizes and provide many useful statistics for local employers and employees.

It is timely, considering the biggest issue of the past year locally and nationally clearly must be the economy. Considering the difficulties across the United States, many consider Albert Lea to have weathered the storm well so far. We’ll see what local officials have to say.

With its long shelf life and key connection to the local economic picture, Impact 2009 promises to be a well-read special section.

Look for it Sept. 25.