To the new chemotherapy and infusion therapy inpatient pharmacy at Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea.

The new pharmacy at Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea, which was estimated to cost just under $1 million, opened this week in the lower level of the medical center across from the cancer center.

The 2,300-square-foot pharmacy, which is more than double the space of the old pharmacy, provides services to patients in the Cancer Center, emergency room and psychiatric services unit. It will also be used by pharmacists to collaborate with other health care teams as needed and review patients pharmaceutical needs and medication orders.

This expanded pharmacy will benefit patients and staff alike.

 

To the new forgivable loan program for owners of new child care businesses in Freeborn County.

Thanks to all who organized the forgivable loan program for new child care businesses in the area and for Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, who awarded Albert Lea the grant to make it possible.

The loan can be used for expenses related to the cost of opening a child care business, such as licensing fees, training, safety equipment, toys, craft supplies, highchairs, cots and strollers, and can be forgiven after two years if the licensed provider remains in business and is in good standing.

We hope this will be one answer to helping fix the shortage in child care in the area.

 

To people who leave trash on the lake while ice fishing.

The ice fishing days for the season are coming to a close, and we’d like to remind ice fishers of the importance of cleaning up trash before you leave.

Trash left behind, which can include everything from bottles, cans, bags, cigarette butts and even propane canisters, ends up in the lakes when the ice melts and can negatively affect water quality.

We encourage anglers to be responsible stewards and clean up after themselves when cleaning up your gear.

Shelters must be removed from lakes in southern Minnesota by midnight March 2.

 

To the national American Legion commander’s visit to Albert Lea.

Thanks to national American Legion Cmdr. James W. “Bill” Oxford, who stopped in Albert Lea on Monday to meet area veterans and speak to the community.

Oxford, a native of Lenoir, North Carolina, was elected national commander in August 2019 in Indianapolis. He has been a part of the veterans organization since 1986 and served in the U.S. Marine Corps, the North Carolina National Guard and the U.S. Army Reserve, retiring as colonel after more than 34 years of military service.

Oxford leads an important organization for our military members, and we appreciate his efforts to help it grow.

 

To Minnesota State Patrol Trooper Doug Rauenhorst.

Hats off to Trooper Doug Rauenhorst, who was recognized at the Minnesota State Patrol awards banquet Wednesday with the Meritorious Service Award.

Rauenhorst in December 2018 stopped a vehicle for traffic violations on Interstate 90 in Faribault County. While attempting to prevent the vehicle from fleeing, Rauenhorst became partially trapped in the vehicle.

As the car fled, Rauenhorst was physically assaulted and seriously injured before being ejected from the vehicle.

The occupants in the vehicle fled east on Interstate 90, throwing almost 16 pounds of marijuana out the window during the chase and were ultimately arrested in Albert Lea with assistance from State Patrol and law enformement from multiple jurisdictions assisting.

We thank this trooper for the bravery he showed in performing the duties of his job despite great personal risks.