To the Wi-Fi hotspot program at Albert Lea Public Library.

We were impressed to hear the success thus far of the new program at Albert Lea Public Library that allows people to check out Wi-Fi hotspots and tablets.

Since the program began last September, 85 devices have been checked out more than 1,000 times. As of this week, there was a waiting list of nearly 40 people for the hotspots.

We appreciate the library staff who recognized the need for people to have high-speed internet and those who are making strides to address it. An estimated 21 percent of the Albert Lea population was reportedly not connected to the internet at home or elsewhere before this program began.

We hope this is only the beginning of this program, and we look forward to seeing it grow in the future.

To the finalists for Albert Lea Teacher of the Year.

Albert Lea Area Schools this week posted the six finalists for this year’s Albert Lea Teacher of the Year award. They were the following: Matt Bitz, Kris Burnett, Kevin Gentz, Paula Olson, Kristen Seeger and Jacque Sorensen.

Look to the Tribune later this month for more information on each of the finalists.

Congratulations to these teachers and all others in the district who make a difference daily in the lives of our children. The Teacher of the Year reception will be at 3:30 p.m. March 29 at the high school.

To the wrestlers in our coverage area who made it to the state wrestling tournament.

Wrestling is a popular sport in Albert Lea, so we were excited to hear that six Albert Lea High School wrestlers, along with two from United South Central Public School advanced to the state wrestling tournament.

From Albert Lea, the wrestlers were Gavin Ignaszewski, Garrett Aldrich, Zach Glazier, Nic Cantu, Jake Johnsrud and Brody Nielsen. From USC, Gavin Sonnek and Blake Legred advanced.

As of press time, the tournament at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul was not completed.

We look forward to seeing the results and wish everyone the best of luck.