DOWN — To fire.

The region has been affected by many disasters this year: tornadoes, hail, severe thunderstorms, floods and the loss of many key leaders who resigned or face prosecution. Sad as it is, such a string bad news would not be complete without a raging fire. We are preparing for locusts or earthquakes next week. Our hearts go out to Len Meyer, owner of Len’s Wood Products north of Oakland.

UP — To letter writers.

We love people who write letters to the editor. We only wish people wrote as many letters as they do during election season. Letters to the editor are a time-tested part of America. Citizens speak their minds about their government and the society in which they live, informing their fellow readers. Keep them coming, folks.

UP — To concussion awareness.

The Albert Lea Medical Center has equipped the Albert Lea School District with the necessary tools and resources to keep our area’s athletes safe.

ALMC athletic trainers Lynn Scheevel and Afton Wacholz’s use of ImPACT, a computerized neurocognitive assessment tool, keeps Albert Lea’s athletes off the field for enough time to heal from concussions.

Research shows that the long-term effects of concussions are greater than once thought. The ALMC has helped keep Albert Lea Schools on pace with organizations like the National Football League in concussion diagnostics and treatment.

With ImPACT, the athletic trainers can bring objectivity into the training room. They can use the results of the assessment to better explain to parents and coaches the severity of the injury and how long the recovery process will take.

Remember that a concussion is a serious brain injury that can cause permanent damage if not treated properly. If someone you know has a concussion, make sure they see a trained professional and stay out of the classroom and off the field until their symptoms subside.