Dear Neighbors,
Happy Independence Day! Tomorrow is such a great chance to get out and enjoy all the fun activities in our area. Most of all, it’s a time to celebrate our nation, and the freedoms we hold so dear. Again, Happy Independence Day; be safe and enjoy yourself!
Local Businesses
We received a couple items of good news recently related to growing business and jobs in our area. First, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced a series of grants to support job creation in Minnesota, including $175,000 for local software business startup, Mortarr LLC in Albert Lea.
Congratulations to the local small business owners of Mortarr on receiving this grant to help grow good-paying jobs in our area. It’s great to see increased investment and job growth in our community, and I’m excited to see the big impact these dollars will have going forward.
Also, a Qdoba restaurant will open here in Albert Lea. This store, which is expected to employ 30 part-time and full-time employees, will open this fall. I think this is great news for providing jobs in our area, as well as another dining option for local residents.
Area Meetings
Now that we’re out of the legislative session, I’ve enjoyed spending more time in our area at local meetings and events. Last week, Colter and I loved meeting lots of new friends at Wind Down Wednesday in Albert Lea. It might have been a bit overcast and misty out, but that didn’t dampen our spirits!
Summer is the perfect time to look back at our legislative session, as well as gather input. I recently met with a group of southern Minnesota superintendents and administrators to talk about education issues, the Albert Lea Noon Lions Club for a legislative update, and other residents who wanted to give their input on state and local initiatives. If you’d like to schedule a time that we can meet, please call or email my office. I love hearing your thoughts and ideas, and putting them to use in the legislature.
Independence Day
Many of our local 4th of July celebrations are already underway, but I wanted to make sure you know about some of the great events in our area. Here are some links to our larger local festivities in Albert Lea and Blooming Prairie.
Again, have fun tomorrow and this weekend, and be safe!
Peggy