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To all of the first responders, meteorologists and tornado spotters who keep us informed during severe weather.

After a busy week of severe weather, we thank the first responders, spotters, meteorologists and others who are dedicated to informing the public during questionable weather like the area saw this week.

Many of these individuals brave the elements to keep an eye on the conditions moving through the county and offer a warning when storms take a turn for the worse.

Anyone who listens to a scanner will hear that these individuals have an organized system in place during these types of weather events, and it is impressive as an outsider to hear the response.

We thank these people for their service and urge them to stay safe as we continue through tornado season.

To retiring Albert Lea Public Safety Director J.D. Carlson.

Congratulations to Albert Lea Public Safety Director J.D. Carlson, who on Friday retired after more than 28 years of service in Albert Lea.

Carlson was a law enforcement officer who gained the respect of the community and those he worked with.

While he deserves a much-needed break after a fast-paced career, we would not be surprised to see him continue to stay involved in the community down the line.

We thank him for his service and wish him well in his retirement.

To the cities of Ellendale and Kiester.

Hats off to Kiester and Ellendale, which this weekend are celebrating their 125th anniversaries with festivals for their own residents and visitors from the area.

If you haven’t stopped in to check out these two small towns in recent years, we encourage you to get out and do so this weekend while there are lots of activities available for the whole family.

Ellendale Days kicked off Thursday and on Saturday was expected to include a car show, a softball tournament, a vendor show, a beanbag tournament, bounce houses, a balloon artist, a parade, a mini carnival and a concert.

On Sunday, a pancake breakfast, tractor pull and community worship service are slated.

Kiester Days also began on Thursday and on Saturday was expected to include a volleyball tournament, a craft and vendor fair, a horseshow tournament, a bags tournament, live entertainment, a parade and a steak and burger fry, among other activities.

Events there are expected to wrap up on Sunday after a brunch and community church service.

Hopefully the weather will hold out for some of these events to be possible.

We wish these communities the best for many more years to come.