Column: Thanks for Listening

The tabloid 30 Under 40 is in our paper today. We have been doing this publication for five years and never have run into any problems finding enough good qualified people to shine the spotlight on.

I have heard people say that Freeborn County is just an “old folks” area, and it makes me mad. We have many people under the age of 40 who live, do business and thrive right here in Freeborn County. These citizens have chosen our county to raise their families and support our area businesses because it is a great region. We have lakes, parks and people who are nice.

Speaking of people, I also want to say we have a lot of amazing “old folks,” too. Our boundless array of mixed generations is what I think makes our towns so much fun. We have generations of hard-working families that are rich in history and love.

It is so nice to see the different generations sharing ideas and wisdom with each other. Learning and combining ideas together is enjoyable. It is what makes America so grand. So the next time you hear someone say that Freeborn County is just an “old folks” area, correct them and tell them we are so much more.

Murals rock!

I love huge murals.

No, really.

In Ashland, Wis., the whole downtown area is all murals, and it is really something to see. They have them on the backs of buildings and on the side of buildings and all around the town.

It is always something to stop and see while driving back to my hometown. So when I saw that the United Way of Freeborn County was looking for help painting a mural on the large brick wall on the side of the Culligan Building along East Main Street, I was thrilled.

I do not paint a lick, but I know that we have a very artsy town, and I cannot wait to see the finished product.

The mural will be a representation of active Albert Lea and our community. It will feature the walking trail, lakes, parks and other activities in the community. This project is a great way to brighten our community.

Please call Ann Austin at the United Way office, 373-8670, to donate your time or resources. Ann, by the way, is awesome.

Congrats, Knights!

The Albert Lea Knights are a pretty big deal around here!

I do not know if you heard, but Albert Lea is now home to two state championship baseball teams.

The Albert Lea Knights 9AA and 10AA teams won the MBT State Championships over the last couple of weeks. Great job boys! A huge pat on the back to the coaches, parents and families who have followed the teams all summer. Great teams need amazing support and you provided it.

Tribune Publisher Scott Schmeltzer’s column appears every Thursday.