To success in Albert Lea through the Jobs Opportunity Building Zones program.

There have been 838 jobs created in Albert Lea since the creation of the Jobs Opportunity Building Zones program, according to an annual audit released this week. Thirteen of those jobs were created in 2014.

The program, which offers local and state exemptions through 2015 to qualified companies that start up or expand in targeted areas in Greater Minnesota, has seven businesses participating: Agilis, Alamco, Albert Lea Select Foods, Bridon Cordage, Larson Manufacturing, Trail’s Truck Service Center and Zumbro River Brand.

The companies have invested more than $58 million into the community since the program began.

It’s unclear whether the businesses would have come to Albert Lea or expanded here without it, but nonetheless, we are grateful.

We hope something similar can be implemented to help bring businesses to Greater Minnesota in the future.

 

To the nine people inducted into the Wall of Inspiration at Albert Lea High School.

It was inspiring to see the students, staff and retired staff members inducted into the Wall of Inspiration on Friday at Albert Lea High School.

Nominations are picked by an induction committee, which consists of representatives from eighth through 12th grade, a faculty adviser and the family of Josh Kuphal, a 2002 Albert Lea graduate who had spina bifida, who the wall was created in honor of.

We commend the students and staff at the school for participating in the Wall of Inspiration. It is positive and highlights good things happening at Albert Lea High School.

 

To news that human remains were found on Interstate 90 in Freeborn County.

We were saddened to hear news that skeletal remains were found off the shoulder of Interstate 90 a half a mile east of Minnesota Highway 13 this week.

According to authorities, the remains likely had been in that area for at least a couple of years and are likely to be that of a male.

Though the cause of death has not yet been determined, we hope this person will be able to be identified and that there may be closure to any family or friends.

The case has generated much discussion on social media as organizations involving missing people are getting involved and others are speculating.

The Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday released photos of the ring found with the body in hopes that someone may recognize it and contact authorities.

We hope the ring offers some tips to authorities.

Anyone with any information connected to the case should contact the Sheriff’s Office at 377-5200.