Travel Class of Albert Lea continues its new schedule of meetings for 2011, using the theme “Sharing and Caring” and centering its programs around its membership. In June “Childhood Memories of Family” provided many laughs. Also at that meeting Mary Jo Volkman of the Freeborn County Healthy Families program explained the enthusiasm evidenced when she brought new books to small children in the homes she visited. Children in the program are between prenatal up to five years. For 13 years she has been doing the visitation. She obtains books from the class as needed.

In July Pat Mulso, executive director of the Freebom County Historical Museum, discussed the expansion project at the museum, library and village. The invitation to contribute to the building fund was extended and the addition explained. The goal is $1.7 million and groundbreaking will be in the spring of 2012. Mulso’s fine visual presentation was much appreciated. Julie Gilbertson was the July hostess.

The August meeting was held on the 15th of the month, hosted by Jane Colby and Diane Cashman. The program centered on the food pantry at First Presbyterian Church. Dorothy Simonsen who has been a longtime worker and a member of the church explained how the pantry is used, supplied and food dispensed and recorded. The church bears the cost of the operation. Monthly figures are provided to church members and the public. Church members volunteer in the various operation duties. The meeting adjourned after discussion and arrangements for the annual nut sale. Proceeds from the sale provide income for donation to Habitat Ride and other funds.