An open letter to an unknown resident of Albert Lea:

About three weeks ago, Crouton, a big, beautiful, gray cat and the pet and mascot of the Albert Lea Seed Garden Center for about eight years, went for one of his daily strolls around the grounds and failed to return. While not unusual for him to leave for an hour or so, it was very unusual for him to be gone overnight. The Seed House posted fliers and Facebook messages hoping for some information and learned that a local security camera captured video of you putting him into your car and driving away. Due to legitimate privacy concerns, the owners of the camera could not divulge information to anyone other than law enforcement. With no other alternative, the police investigated the situation and checked with you. You informed them that you took him thinking he was a stray but had released him “in the area” and no longer had him. It seems odd that someone would care enough to pick up a stray cat only to release it in a strange location. However, if that is indeed the case, you might consider letting someone know specifically where you released him in the hopes that he might be found and returned home. On the other hand, if you have him in your home, please know that Crouton is deeply missed by many Seed House employees and customers. If perhaps you feel a little guilt about taking him from his home and people who love him, consider dropping him off near the Seed House. He’ll find his way home.

P.S. To anyone else reading this letter: If you happen to see Crouton or have any information that might help return him, please contact the Albert Lea Seed Garden Center.

Jim Wichmann

Conger