To organizers of the Out of the Darkness Walk in Albert Lea.

Saturday marked the first Out of the Darkness Walk in Albert Lea, which aims to promote suicide prevention and awareness.

According to a press release from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is the leading cause of death. In Minnesota, it is the second and third leading cause of death for ages 15 to 44.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported suicide rates have risen in nearly every state in the U.S. in recent years, and many of us have been personally impacted by the loss of someone to suicide.

Though it claims more lives each year than war, murder and natural disasters combined, suicide prevention doesn’t receive near the funding as other leading causes of death, according to the foundation.

We thank the organizers of this event who seek to put a spotlight on this issue, which impacts our community like other communities across the nation.

As we move forward to Suicide Prevention Week this coming week, we ask community members to take this awareness forward.

Be a friend to those who may be struggling, and offer a message of hope.

 

To an uptick in the recent number of crashes with bicyclists and pedestrians in the area.

It has been sad to notice more crashes with cars and bicyclists popping up on the police logs in the last few weeks, as there have been two at the intersection of Bridge Avenue and Katherine Street. One was near the intersection of Bridge Avenue and Hammer Road Thursday afternoon, though no one was injured. On top of that, there was a young boy who was struck by a car a few weeks ago while walking across the street with his mother.

We ask motorists to take extra precaution — particularly now that school is back in session — for increased people out walking and bicycling. Slow down, limit your distractions and always pay attention to your surroundings.

In return, it is important for children and adults alike to learn proper rules and exercise caution when walking or riding a bicycle.

 

To continued reports of property damage, thefts and burglaries.

The Albert Lea Police Department posted on its Facebook page Friday for residents to be on the lookout for suspicious activity as officers have received an increased amount of reports for damage to property, thefts and burglaries.

The department advises residents to not hesitate to report suspicious activity — immediately when you observe it — and to be vigilant and lock your doors, with valuables locked or hidden from plain sight.

As the Police Department states, residents are needed to be the eyes of the community. Report anything that is questionable.