On Nov. 1 Alpha Orthodontics in Albert Lea sponsored a candy exchange event at the Skyline Plaza. The idea was to collect Halloween candy to send to soldiers serving overseas. Dr. Dean Leonard offered kids $1 per pound of candy. With the help of the American Legion the candy was sent overseas. Leonard received this letter from a soldier:

Dear Dr. Leonard,

Thank you for the gift of candy. I shared with many of the soldiers from the 2/34 IBCT Task Force Red Bulls. They were very surprised to know you collected so much candy on their behalf, which was very generous of you. I was elated to have a package to open and to be reassured that family, friends and the community support us here in Afghanistan.

With love and gratitude,

Maj. Dean Fix