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Dive into fun – and water safety – with Albert Lea’s Aquatic Center
The original Albert Lea city pool opened at 321 James Ave. on Memorial Day in 1977 with the official dedication ceremony later on June 12. At that ceremony, then-Mayor O.H. Hagen and former Mayor Niles Shoff cut a ribbon to open the pool with dozens of eager swimmers jumping in right afterward. The pool measured…
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Marion Ross Performing Arts Center showcases talent
Theater’s history continues to unfold The Marion Ross Performing Arts Center in downtown Albert Lea continues a rich and compelling history with plays, concerts and other events throughout the year. In fact, Albert Lea Community Theatre (ACT) sold nearly 7,000 tickets to events during the 2022-’23 season. The City of Albert Lea owns this historic…
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Restrooms for splashers, shoppers and more
The City of Albert Lea is asking voters on April 9 to approve up to $9.8 million in funding to improve rec facilities, including building restrooms near the Splash Pad at 107 Fountain St. One idea for the restroom building is to use a model similar to the pavilion at Pioneer Park. Restrooms would be…
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Arena: Legacy of hockey, figure skating and even dog shows
What do hockey, figure skating and dog shows have in common? In Albert Lea, they’re all based at the City Arena, 701 Lake Chapeau Drive. For almost 50 years, the arena has supported a variety of recreation, proof of Albert Lea’s commitment to recreation for all generations. The city converted the former Lea College Field…
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Too many distracted drivers send a dangerous message
Extra enforcement on Minnesota roads April 1 – 30 Distracted driving takes away hopes, dreams and lives across Minnesota, and can leave people with serious injuries that tragically affect their day-to-day living. With distracted driving still claiming lives and causing life-changing injuries statewide, law enforcement agencies are reminding drivers about the dangers of not paying…
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Albert Lea crime rate continues to decline
The Albert Lea Police Department reports that the local crime rate continues to decline with a decrease of 2 percent from 2022 to 2023, based on a statewide crime reporting system. The overall rate decreased despite the reports of more serious crimes increasing by 11 percent. These types of crime include larceny-theft, burglary, motor vehicle…
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Into compliance: ALPD and health department inspect cannabis retailers
The Albert Lea Police Department (ALPD) and Minnesota Department of Health recently brought several local retailers into compliance with regulations on selling cannabis products. No citations were issued because business owners were cooperative in taking corrective actions. In response to complaints about Albert Lea retailers selling illegal cannabis products, the ALPD and health department inspected…
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Trails in Albert Lea lead to fun
Blazing Star State Trail The Blazing Star State Trail runs about 6 miles from Frank Hall Park, 505 Frank Ave., in Albert Lea to Myre-Big Island State Park, 19499 780th Ave. The trail is open to hiking, biking, in-line skating and wheelchairs. Users will enjoy rural views along the way and excellent birding spots in…
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Get to know the Albert Lea Police Department: Applications open for 2024 Citizens Academy
The Albert Lea Police Department invites residents to participate in its upcoming Citizens Academy program, offering an inside look into the daily operations of local law enforcement. Classes are scheduled for Thursdays from 7 to 9:30 p.m. beginning March 14 and continuing through May 13. Sessions cover various topics including DWI/traffic enforcement, use of force…
