To Albert Lea High School graduate Aaron Rietsema.

Congratulations to Aaron Rietsema, a 1998 graduate of Albert Lea High School, who was featured on “House Hunters” this week on HGTV.

In the episode, Rietsema, who has worked as a real estate agent in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, since 2005, helps a couple decide which of three homes they will move into.

For this week’s episode, he worked with a couple looking for a bigger house closer to downtown Sioux Falls.

Rietsema said the process included five days of filming, which took place in May.

He has two other episodes in the works, too.

It’s fun seeing Albert Lea natives on television. Keep up the good work.

To the Albert Lea Lakers’ decision to play a second year of baseball in Albert Lea.

Thanks to the organizers of the Albert Lea Lakers baseball team who were approved last month by the Albert Lea City Council to use Hayek Field for a second year for games.

The Lakers are a collegiate baseball team that finished its inaugural season in Albert Lea with an 11-19 regular season record. The team gives college baseball players the opportunity to work on their game and to grow as  young men.

We look forward to seeing what they can do next year.

Earlier this week, the team had already drafted 11 players for the new year, and the schedule is expected to be released in January.

We encourage residents to get out and support the team.

To Shell Rock River Watershed District Administrative Assistant Leah Lawrence.

Congratulations to Shell Rock River Watershed District Administrative Assistant Leah Lawrence, who was named Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year last month at the chamber’s annual dinner.

In her role at the Watershed District, Lawrence assists leaders Brett Behnke and Andy Henschel. Lawrence is in charge of preparing the agenda and other paperwork for board meetings and works on outreach and marketing.

As a chamber Ambassador, Lawrence visits business celebrations, ribbon-cutting events, meets business staff and managers and supports local businesses.

Thanks for your time spent in the community.