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To the opening of the new technical training center for EDF Renewables North America this week at Riverland Community College.

We were excited to see the opening of the new training center this week at Riverland Community College, which is a collaboration between the college, EDF Renewables and the state of Minnesota.

The new facility in Albert Lea will host hands-on training for wind energy and renewable energy technicians.

Not only is this great for there to be more educational opportunities for area residents, but it is even more promising to know that the company chose to bring it to Albert Lea after considering other sites in Texas and California.

The company is starting out with a seven-year agreement with the college and hopes to continue for many more years after that.

To the city of Albert Lea and Arcadian Bank.

Congratulations to the city of Albert Lea and Arcadian Bank, as well as 13 other companies across the region that were recently named as Best Places to Work in Southeast Minnesota as part of a partnership with Workforce Development Inc. and the Workforce Development Boards of Southeast Minnesota and Winona.

Companies from across 11 counties were evaluated by consulting firm Personnel Dynamics, and 15 standout companies were selected.

These businesses have made meaningful investments in their people, championed inclusive and engaging work environments, and continue to lead with innovation, purpose and care, according to a press release.

To Albert Lea Public Library’s Children’s Librarian Patty Greibrok.

Thanks to Albert Lea Public Library’s Patty Greibrok, who plans to retire next month as children’s librarian after 25 years at the library.

Greibrok has been a smiling, welcoming face for all who walk through the doorway into the children’s library, and we wish her the best in her retirement.

We thank her for her dedication to her role, for sparking the love of reading in so many of our youth and for being a resource for parents and caregivers, alike, when they brought their children to the library. Greibrok’s impact will be felt for years to come.