To the holiday store created at Southwest Middle School called Be Jolly By Golly.

Kudos to those who organized the holiday store at Southwest Middle School that allowed students to pick out one gift for each member fo their family.

The goal of the activity was to help students practice perspective, think about others and practice relationship building.

It started with just some of the students participating but was opened up to other students nominated for their kindness and thoughtfulness because of the number of donations received.

To Crescendo chef Bob Tewes.

Congratulations to Albert Lean Bob Tewes, who was named this month as one of the top nine chefs in Minnesota in an annual ranking by Foodservice News.

Tewes is co-owner of Crescendo, which has been open since 2001. The restaurant features a California-style of cooking that integrates world cuisines with local available produce.

The restaurant is known not only across Albert Lea, but across southern Minnesota and the region, as well.

Tewes — and the community — should be proud.

To the variety of music being offered next year at the Freeborn County Fair.

We are pleased the Freeborn County Fair Board took the community’s comments into consideration when it planned the entertainment at next year’s fair.

There will be a mix of country, ’80s rock and — for the first time at the fair — a Christian band.

Regardless of what you think of the entertainers chosen, you have to appreciate that the board brought in some variety.

Scheduled to perform are Ashley McBryde, Sammy Kershaw, Collin Raye, Aaron Tippin, Hairball, The Casting Crowns and LANCO.

To people who have donated to the less fortunate this holiday season.

It has been heartwarming to see numerous instances of people donating to the less fortunate these last few weeks in the community. Whether it’s people giving or volunteering at the Salvation Army kettle, collecting gifts for area students or some other kind act, each donation does not go unnoticed.

These efforts matter, and we encourage people to continue doing kind deeds for their neighbors all year long.