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To continued efforts to incentivize new child care providers.

We were glad to see the Albert Lea Economic Development Agency announce this week it was putting more money into its child care forgivable loan program, which was set up to encourage and support new licensed child care providers in Freeborn County.

The program started with a grant received through Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation and thus far has assisted three new providers. The program gives away $2,000 to cover expenses associated with opening a child care business.

We hope people who have been considering starting in this field will do so at this time.

Child care is much needed in the community and is critical to allow parents the ability to work and make a living for their families.

To people who help keep area lakes clean.

Thank you to the Albert Lea Lakes Foundation, the Shell Rock River Watershed District, the Albert Lea Anglers and all others who played a park in planning the annual Lakes Cleanup Day for Saturday starting at Frank Hall Park.

While it’s unfortunate that these lakes cleanup events have to take place in the first place, we thank those who go out of their way to clean up others’ trash and beautify our community.

These individuals not only volunteer their time but also their labors — and sometimes in messy conditions.

These cleanup efforts do not go unnoticed.

If you need something to do and want to get your children or grandchildren involved in a worthwhile project, venture out to the cleanup Saturday starting at 8 a.m. at Frank Hall Park.

If you can’t participate but want to help in the cause, you can join in the effort by picking up any trash you see throughout the year. Help keep our lakes clean.

To the new program aimed at reducing 911 calls and bringing resources to residents.

Albert Lea Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Laskowske this week announced plans for a community risk reduction program — a new program under the department that is aimed at connecting people with resources and helping them avoid regular trips to the emergency room.

So often, first responders are called to a location for someone who has fallen or suffered some other health condition. The person is taken to the emergency room, treated and ultimately released to go back home.

Sometimes, however, a few days — or even hours — later, the same thing happens again and the resident ends up back in the hospital.

Through the community risk reduction program, firefighters would followup with residents after 911 calls and ask if they would like a consultation to help them figure out resources to help them in their daily living to prevent future repeat visits to the emergency room.

If the program works as it is intended, it could bring about better quality of life for these individuals and fewer visits to the emergency room, which is a win for everyone.

Thanks to the fire department for setting up this program and for all those who are partnering with the department to make it possible.