Election Guide 2018

Tribune Election Albert Lea

VOTER GUIDE

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018

Are you ready to

VOTE?

FIND OUT WHERE THE CANDIDATES STAND FOR UPCOMING DISTRICT 27A HOUSE RACE

Gjersvik emphasizes life experience Bennett touts work done so far in office

Terry Gjersvik

Age: 57 Spouse: Dara Children/grandchildren: two daughters, one son, one grandson.

Livelihood: farmer Address: 70353 255th St., Alden I’m a farmer, living on a farm in Manchester Township, working the same land my grandfather and father farmed before me. I grew up in the working class Academy Park neighborhood in Albert Lea. My mom worked at home, and my dad was a Teamster Union truck driver before taking over the family farm. I attended Ramsey Elementary School and graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1979. My family and this community provided a solid foundation for me to build my future.

I’m a businessman with an ag economics degree from the University of Minnesota. During the farm crisis, I worked in grain elevator management with Cargill. This led to my 15-year career in ag business software where I traveled the Midwest extensively, consulting with small businesses and witnessing many changes unfold in rural America.

I’m also a teacher. In 2001 I went to night school, earning my teaching license while running summer school and

afterschool programs in Albert Lea. I taught “at-risk” high school students for 10 years but needed to leave fulltime teaching as our farm grew, and my 80-year-old dad needed me there.

I’ve been fortunate to find success in three distinct career paths and to have had support when I’ve needed it my entire life. Not everyone here is so fortunate. Seventy percent of the children at one of our local schools qualify for free or reduced lunch. I’ve seen firsthand that many students are coming to school with unmet basic needs. That’s why I’m running for office.

I’ve done a lot of listening while knocking on over 9,000 doors in this campaign.

The five concerns I hear most are 1) health care, 2) child care, 3) economic development, 4) senior care and 5) our ineffective government, where politicians care more about partisanship than working together.

These issues are my priorities, the ones I’ve focused my learning and planning on, the ones I’ll dedicate my time and energy to if elected. They remind us how interconnected we are. Child care providers need affordable health care; businesses need their workers to have reliable child care; seniors need access to quality services and housing, and we all need legislators to work together. A guiding belief of this campaign is the success of each of us impacts all of us.

In other words, we are all better when we work together: Together we work, and together we win.

My knowledge and experience in farming and ag business distinguish me from my opponent. We both carry a breadth of knowledge and experience in education, but only one of us does in rural business and agriculture. Just four members of the the Minnestoa House currently work as farmers, and rural Minnesota needs better representation. If elected, I’ll cross the aisle and partner with anyone willing to work together and solve the problems we all face. I’m committed to putting voters first, bringing people together and working tirelessly for the community I’ve called home my entire life.

Peggy Bennett

Age: 60 Spouse: N/A Children/grandchildren: over 750 “kids” — all of my former first-grade students; three fur-kids, my Shiloh shepherd, Colter; and my two Ragdoll cats, Kelchi and Mingo Livelihood: retired elementary school teacher of 33 years; current state legislator for 27A Address: 1638 Massee St., Albert Lea

27A for four years. I had never intended to get involved in politics or run for office, but I did, and I have found that I love this job — because I love people. It has been an honor and joy to serve the people of 27A. The issues I will prioritize are the issues that the people of this area hold important — issues like health care, economic growth for our area, eliminating income tax on Social Security, access to and cost of child care and more.

Health care is by far the most important issue for our area and state. Insurance premiums have skyrocketed, deductibles have quadrupled, rural communities are losing health care access and thousands of Minnesotans have lost their health care plans.

It was a pleasure to be part of working on legislation that has halted double-digit premium increases on the individual market and is projected to reduce those premiums for many Minnesotans next year. I also chief authored three separate pieces of legislation with the goal of helping restore lost health care services to rural communities and reducing costs.

I have been actively involved in networking with health care professionals, both within and outside our state, to come up See BENNETT, Page B5

I have lived in Albert Lea since 1981, when I came here for my first teaching job. I fell in love with this area and the people here and have lived here ever since. I taught elementary school for 33 wonderful years and still greatly enjoy working with children when I get the opportunity.

I love to read. One of my life goals is to write a historical fiction book based on the life of my great-grandparents who lived in Connecticut during the Revolutionary War. I also enjoy studying history, especially Native American and early American history.

I have been a state legislator for District

Albert Lea mayoral candidates share their priorities for next 4 years RASMUSSEN: STILL MORE WORK TO BE DONE

MARIN: ‘TURN LOCAL ECONOMY AROUND’

Vern Rasmussen Jr. (incumbent)

George Marin

Age: 54 Spouse’s name: Marilyn Children/grandchildren: two children Livelihood: physical therapist at Mayo Clinic Health System at HealthReach Address: 1426 Edgewater Drive, Albert Lea My name is Vern Rasmussen Jr., and I have had the honor of serving as your mayor for the past eight years. Prior to being elected, I served on the City Council for six years.

In addition, I currently serve on the Senior Center Board and Port Authority.

I am a physical therapist providing care to citizens within Albert Lea and the surrounding area. As a health care professional, health care has always been my passion, and helping people has been my motivation.

In 1982, I graduated from Albert Lea High School, then attended The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, where I received a double major in biology and physical therapy. Marilyn and I have been married for 29 years, and have two wonderful children. When not helping people at work or serving as mayor, my family enjoys spending time around the lake, exercising and volunteering, as

well as attending local and Minnesota sporting events.

Go Tigers! Go Gophers!

We have made significant progress within Albert Lea in recent years; however, we still have more work to do to be the community we all envision. That’s why I am running for another term as your mayor. Albert Lea has seen population growth, tax base increase and school enrollment is up, and growth must be our continued goal. Achieving growth needs the joint effort of all groups and strong partnerships. The city and I have worked hard to develop these partnerships and will continue to maximize these relationships to create opportunities with the state, the county and the school district.

We continue building tools to assist our existing and prospective companies See RASMUSSEN, Page B6

Age: 50 Spouse’s name: Jill Children/grandchildren: two children (Elisha, 26; and Suzie, 24, and her husband, Robert) Livelihood: pastor, chemical dependency chaplain Address: 1311 S. Fourth Ave., Albert Lea I am husband to my lovely wife of 30 years, Jill. I am dad to two worldchangers, Elisha Andrew and Suzie, and now proud father-in-law to Robert. I was born in southern California, served in Lafayette, Indiana, and have chosen beautiful Albert Lea as our home for 26 years. I am a carpenter by trade and minister by profession.

I am a published author; musician; recording artist; concert promoter/producer; business, leadership and marriage mentor; and an international conference

speaker. I have led humanitarian, spiritual and goodwill missions. I am fluent in English and Spanish, and am learning Macedonian.

I have served Fountain Centers as chemical dependency chaplain for over 24 years. I have also served in corporate, jail and prison chaplaincy. I mentor youth groups and have trained teams which have served in over 40 countries. I earned my Associate of Arts from

Riverland Community College and my Bachelor of Arts from Metropolitan State University in St. Paul.

My hobbies are traveling, reading, interacting with people from all walks of life and humanitarian service. I am committed to lifelong learning.

My education is human studies based, encompassing areas of psychology, sociology, ethnic studies, race relations, addictions, world religions and leadership. I bring a wealth of knowledge in working with people from various demographics and socioeconomic backgrounds. I live with a vision-purposeful perspective, am goal-oriented and operate from a global worldview, which enhances local visioning.

I have served three successful terms representing the people of Albert Lea on See MARIN, Page B6

PAGE B2 | ALBERTLEATRIBUNE.COM | TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018

Meet the city and county candidates

Albert Lea City Council Ward 2

Larry Baker (incumbent and unopposed)

Age: 61 Spouse: Susan Roskens, partner of seven years Livelihood: work at Freeborn Lumber Co. Address: 1315 Lakeview Boulevard, Albert Lea Hi, I am Larry Baker and hopefully I will be able to give you some insight as to who I am. I was born and raised in Albert Lea by my mother, Addie Baker, who resides at the new St John’s, and my father, Lowell Baker, who resides at the original St John’s. I have an older sister, Pam, and a younger brother, Steve. Pam is married to Craig Quinlivan and they live in Albert Lea, and Steve lives in San Francisco. I do not have any children, but I do have two nieces, one nephew, five great-nieces, two great-nephews and one great-great-nephew.

I pretty much have worked in fields where I have worked with people: seven years in the grocery business, 12 in a car dealership and 24 years in construction business. You could say that one of my passions is working with, being around and meeting new people. That’s why I made the decision to run for public office. What a wonderful opportunity to

experience my passion while working to help make this great community even better. To experience living in Albert Lea over the years has given me so much that I wanted to invest some time and effort to help ensure this community can be the best it can be now and for future generations.

During the summers in the last five years, I been going to Artesian festivals with my girlfriend of seven years. Susan makes really cool pressed flower jewelry, and I help her by going to these festivals to sell her jewelry. We travel southwestern Wisconsin, northern Iowa and southern Minnesota. I am able to meet and talk with many people and sometimes the conversations go in the direction of community. I have come away from these conversations realizing that Albert Lea isn’t much different than many communities, in the sense we are working to better our community and ourselves. One thing is certain for me after spending time in all of these cities I realize even more that Albert Lea is where I want to be.

I think everyone realizes Albert Lea has its issues, like the direction health care has taken and the direction we as members of this community would like to see it go, like what seems like an infinite number of infrastructure needs and a finite monies to spend on them. The challenge of keeping and supporting the businesses we have and courting new ones to come to Albert Lea. Working hard on becoming an all-inclusive community, so everyone who lives here feels they are an important to the success of this community. We are the solution in the continued success of us.

In closing, I would like to say that I have been honored and humbled by serving the people of the 2nd Ward and Albert Lea.

Keep

Thank you for this incred- Home Solutions Midwest. ible experience.

Last fall I branched out on my own and am selling and Ward 4 subcontracting siding and seamless gutter projects in the southern Minnesota area.

My wife, Sarah, and I bought a house in the same neighborhood in which I grew up. We are working hard to raise our three very active children. Alex, 14, is a freshman at Albert Lea High School and is active in tennis, orchestra and robotics. Michael, 13, is a seventhgrader at Southwest and enjoys soccer, wrestling, baseball and choir. Our Reid Olson daughter, Maggie, 10, is a (incumbent) fourth-grader at Hawthorne.

Age: 44 Maggie loves to play soccer, Spouse: Sarah hockey and softball and is a Children/grandchildren: three-time state champion in three children, Alex, Miwrestling. chael and Maggie I enjoy being actively inLivelihood: self-employed volved in the community. I siding contractor coached tee-ball for six conAddress: 1110 E. Richway secutive years and continue Dr., Albert Lea to coach for the Albert Lea Baseball Association. I have My name is Reid Olson, also coached flag football and I’m a proud sixth-generand hockey. We are active ation Freeborn County resimembers of St. Theodore dent. Growing up in Albert Catholic Church and Albert Lea, I have fond memories Lea Wrestling Booster Club. of participating in play I’m a member of the Houspark activities at Hawing and Redevelopment thorne, skiing on Fountain Authority board, and a past Lake and playing football, member of the Parks and hockey and baseball. As a Recreation board. In my teenager, I could be found free time I enjoy attendworking on a construction ing all of the great activisite alongside my father, ties Albert Lea has to offer.

Bruce, and grandfather, When I first ran for City Paul, who have built many Council, there was a push homes and buildings in and for a four-lane Bridge around Albert Lea. Avenue corridor, which I After graduating from opposed. With the help of Albert Lea High School in the council and a change 1993, I went to the Universiof leadership on the county ty of Wisconsin-River Falls, board, this project did not where my major was social see it’s way through, saving sciences, and I was also a many homes and not putmember of the football ting a divide through the team. After my junior year, center of Albert Lea. I I transferred to Mankato also ran on community State University, where I togetherness, which I still changed my emphasis to believe should be a major business. focal point. Wind Down After completing my eduWednesdays and Thurscation, I moved to Burnsdays on Fountain have ville for two years before been wonderful additions deciding to move back to for Albert Lea residents.

Albert Lea and start my own In the future, I’m looking siding company, which I ran forward to helping instill a for six years before joining new direction for the HRA in improving our housing stock by going after redevelopment grants and partnering with community stakeholders for new market rate rentals and permanent housing.

I’m looking forward to the opportunity to continue to serve the people of the 4th Ward. Vote for Reid Olson Nov. 6.

PEGGY BENNETT

working hard for you!

Why I’m Running For Re-Election...

security. I spent the next two years in west Germany, serving at the advanced weapons support command’s top secret document repository. I rose through the ranks eventually becoming the noncommissioned officer in charge of the office I was assigned to.

I got a six-month early out on my enlistment to return home and attend Mankato State College. Over the years I have also taken numerous business classes.

In 1972 I moved to Albert Lea and have worked in the transportation industry for the last 46 years. In 2004, I bought my first truck, and in 2007 I got my own authority and started Hagen Trucking Service LLC. For the last 10 years I have followed and questioned various city issues costing the taxpayers thousands of dollars, and in some cases, millions. In the last four years I have attended a majority of city agenda and council meetings so I could be informed. I have authored many letters to the editor questioning various city issues. I believe every taxpayer deserves honesty and respect and to be treated fairly and equally under our laws and ordinances.

We all need to be informed and demand transparency and accountability.

My concern is for the community’s future and how our decisions of today will affect our children and grandchildren’s lives long into their future. I am also concerned about our high taxes and the city’s current spending habits.

I believe with the correct leadership at the city and on the council we can use a common sense approach to all the issues we are faced with. We need to work together to try and replace our lost full-service, inpatient, acute-care hospital and birthing unit. We need a functional infrastructure, market rate and low-income housing, and livable wage jobs.

If you would like to see change, my vision and values are for a more conservative, practical approach to city spending and city issues. Please give me the opportunity to serve as your next 4th Ward city councilor in a responsive and responsible manner.

Ward 6

Keep Peggy working hard for you!

RE-ELECT

PEGGY BENNETT

NOVEMBER 6TH!

3 For The People — I believe big government too easily strays from a

people driven agenda to a politically driven agenda. Political power should never become more important than PEOPLE! I want to continue to move toward the goal of a more responsible, commonsense government with focused priorities – a government that serves the people.

Gary Hagen

3 Legislation I Will Be Working On When Re-Elected —

Age: 67 Spouse: Joanne Children/grandchildren: two daughters and 10 grandchildren Livelihood: business owner Address: 501 Albert Lea St., Albert Lea

3 For You — I have very much enjoyed

I live on Albert Lea Street with my wife, Joanne. We have been married for 22 years and have two grown daughters and 10 grandchildren. In 2013 and 2014, in an effort to improve our lives, our neighborhood and the community, my wife and I had a new home built on Albert Lea Street

by Fountain Lake, as this is where we will spend our retirement and enjoy this beautiful community and our grandchildren.

In my spare time I enjoy going to local classic car shows with my 1969 Firebird convertible and riding motorcycle. I also take pride in maintaining and keeping a nice yard and home.

I grew up in the New Richland area and graduated from New RichlandHartland High School in 1969. I immediately enlisted in the Army for three years during the Vietnam War. I served six months in the states, where I was trained as an administrative specialist with additional courses in leadership and

• Helping communities that lose critical hospital services by designing tax incentives to help bring in competitive health providers to those communities. I was successful in getting this legislation in our 2018 tax bill that was, sadly, vetoed. I will try again next year!

• Bringing back common-sense to government agencies…

Overregulation is hurting individuals, communities, and businesses and many agencies are completely out of control and out of touch with regular people. I am working on bills that will reduce nonsense regulation and bring these agencies back to doing what they are supposed to do: SERVE THE PEOPLE! • Making sure people don’t get left behind financially by finding more opportunity for tax relief and by focusing on prioritized spending that adequately funds core government responsibilities (the “meat and potatoes”) such as roads and bridges, education, and care for the vulnerable, and leaves the “desserts” for local communities to choose. serving you. I would be honored to have your vote to continue the work I have started!

Re-Elect

PEGGY

FOR

BENNETT HOUSE 27A

People before politics.

Visit www.Bennett4House.com to learn more about Peggy’s and her positions!

Prepared and paid for by the Bennett for MN House 27A committee • PO Box 308 • Albert Lea, MN 56007

Al D. Brooks (incumbent)

Age: 63 Spouse: Brenda Children/grandchildren: three children and six grandchildren Livelihood: owner of Brooks Safety Equipment Address: 1402 Academy Ave., Albert Lea I was born in Carroll, Iowa, and moved to Albert Lea with my family in 1959.

I have lived in the 6th Ward my entire life and still live there — as a matter of fact, on the same street. I completed my education with graduating from Albert Lea High School and also Riverland Community College.

My working experience has included working on a production line, being a union steward for the United Steelworkers to presently owning and operating my own business, Brooks Safety Equipment.

I believe experience is always a positive. After serving as a union representative dealing with contracts and everyday personal issues to working with management, and the 20 years I have been on the council is a great asset I have. While being on the council, there have been times when I have had to be the leader. I served as mayor and also the mayor pro tem through the years when needed to make decisions affecting the citizens

of Albert Lea. I do not take the position of a councilman lightly.

Which brings me back to my own way of the way and where I grew up. I believe when you are in a position to make decisions you need to look at yourself, your principles, the values you believe in and how it will affect others. I have always believed that if it doesn’t feel right in my heart, that it is not the right choice for me.

Moving forward, as a community we are facing issues such as health care and housing. It’s important we continue to try to achieve our needs in health care. As we get older, needs start to change, so finding ways to receive health care here at home is a priority.

Traveling to other facilities can create hardships on families.

Throughout the years, I would have to say my hobbies have been sports, consisting of following my children’s/grandchildren’s sporting events, coaching various teams, and participating in bowling, golf and pool league. I enjoy spending time with my wife, children and grandchildren on our vacations.

On a lighter note, I believe that after living in the 6th Ward my entire life, I can call myself a true Albert Lean and 6th Warder.

Nick Ronnenberg

Age: 46 Spouse: N/A Children/grandchildren: three children and two grandchildren Livelihood: detention deputy for Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office Address: 1123 Frank Hall Drive, Albert Lea

I grew up in Rochester and graduated from John Marshall High School.

Growing up, my family did a lot of camping and fishing, and when I was old enough, I went deer hunting to our family deer camp in southeast Minnesota. My family and I love water-skiing, snow-skiing, boating and deer hunting. I also play a lot of card games — mostly cribbage and euchre — and I love fantasy football. I moved to Albert Lea in 2002 with my family. Now that my children are grown and have two grandchildren, I have time to focus more on what I can do to make our community better.

Early on in life, I had ingrained in me the value of serving others. When I was a child, I used to go with my dad and my grandparents to various volunteer activities. They were actively involved in the VFW and the American Legion. I went to parades and saw them march, saw them volunteer to work bingo events, and they were active in membership meetings. That is what I want you to know about me. I have served my whole life in one capacity or another. As a child, I served in various youth organizations including church activities and the Civil Air Patrol. I then started my service in the Army at age 18 and joined the VFW and American Legion as soon as I was able. Once my children were born, I took an active role in their lives, serving as a leader in my sons’ Boy Scouts troop for many years, coached traveling baseball for a few years and was also active with the high school robotics team. I also continued to serve the community. I have been on the United Way board, past member of Rotary, Elks and Eagles, and mostly and directly, simply serving others and volunteering my time to help when I was needed. In the past, I have gone to council meetings on behalf of others and even to court to be their voice when they couldn’t speak for themselves. I am passionate

about serving others.

I am running for City Council to serve others in the community and to proactively make Albert Lea a better place to be. I have been active in my ward, and my work is evident there.

As the councilman for Ward 6, I am committed to hearing and learning what concerns the citizens have and making positive changes for our community. If you have had enough of the same-old, same-old, then it’s time for some real change. It’s time for something better. It’s time to vote for Nick Ronnenberg on Nov. 6.

Freeborn County Board of Commissioners District 2

Dan Belshan (incumbent)

Age: 63 Spouse: Bonnie Children/grandchildren: two children, four grandchildren Livelihood: farmer, District 2 commissioner Address: 85486 157th St., Glenville It is an honor and privilege to serve as District 2 commissioner and be your voice on the county board. I believe county government is a servant of the people. I support a balanced budget and wise spending, commonsense solutions to problems and am careful with your tax dollars. Rarely a day goes by without phone calls, emails or conversations about something countyrelated — usually water, highway, taxes, safety and zoning issues. I’m known for listening to concerns, then researching to find answers.

I have the time and energy, am tenacious, ask tough questions and look at all sides of an issue.

I know county government and believe in fiscal responsibility. Taxes are too high. I recommend funding core services: public health, human services, public safety, transportation (roads and bridges) and veterans services, and cutting unmandated services. We need to hold the line, get leaner and request many competitive bids on purchases.

As commissioner, I work for you, getting rumble strips on roads and LED lights on stop signs, pushing for better maintenance by crack filling, chip-sealing and using better gravel to preserve county roads, working to decrease traffic speed in small communities, helping small businesses to have less hassle to operate and working on getting grants for community tornado shelters. Over the years, my fact-driven research saved over $100,000 on county computer software,

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018 | ALBERTLEATRIBUNE.COM | PAGE B3 the county received $7,500 when I questioned an architect’s invoice and I secured a $30,000 donation which paid for the Sheriff’s Office drone.

I stopped a $70,000 bus purchase by having human services clients use public transportation instead, started a resource sharing committee with the city of Albert Lea, helped form a program so 911 responders can take training online and changed jail food service, resulting in paying only for meals served.

A lifelong resident of Freeborn County, I graduated from Glenville High School and received an associate degree with emphasis in biology from Austin Jr. College. I’ve been farming for over 40 years and am a small business owner, producing music and messages on hold with Bonnie.

I served on the Glenville school board and Bethlehem Lutheran Church council, am currently vice president of Lodge 44 at the Brick Hall, where I volunteer in activities and work to restore and preserve the building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. A member of Sons of the American Legion, I helped establish and care for the veterans memorial at the Bohemian National Cemetery and am working on an addition there.

My hobbies are planting and caring for deciduous and evergreen trees, and seeding and maintaining a pollinator habitat at our farm home north of Myrtle and on some acres of what was once my grandparents’ farm near Albert Lea. We enjoy spending time with our grandchildren!

I welcome your questions, opinions and comments. My phone number is 507-448-3332, my email is dbelshan@lakes.com and my website is danbelshan. com. When you ask where I stand you’ll get my straight and honest answer — and the facts behind it.

Shield and Storm. I culminated my service commanding an airborne field artillery battery in Alaska.

Upon leaving the Army, I have worked in industry as a supervisor through general manager. Along the way, I also went back to school while working full time and received my MBA from the University of Notre Dame.

Family brought me back to the area after the passing of my father several years ago.

I now live on the family farm/ acreage in Moscow Township as the third-generation Osmonson with my wife. We have two grown children living and working in Iowa. I enjoy woodworking, hunting, fishing, outdoor activities and watching sports (football) as time allows.

Some of my basic tenets and/or beliefs include: • We live in the best country in the world. No doubt.

• Listen first. All too often we want to respond before listening to another opinion completely.

• Facts and data are the basis from which to make decisions.

• Common sense rules.

Facts and data are the foundation of the decision making process, but don’t be afraid to listen to that inner voice.

• Teamwork is essential.

The collective impact of a team far out paces that of an individual.

• I will choose the harder right over the easier wrong.

My basic platform/issues consist of: • All our county business should be conducted in a transparent fashion where conditions (law) allow.

• We must conduct county business in a fiscally accountable and responsible manner.

Our constituency deserves to know their tax dollars are being allocated wisely.

• The county should promote and support actions that encourage existing local businesses to grow and new businesses to move to our county.

• Work with county administration and department leaders to develop and implement a strategic planning process.

• Provide the needed leadership and fresh, forward thinking that our county needs to improve and grow.

District 4 Ken Osmonson

Age: 57 Spouse: Violet Children/grandchildren: Children Nick (24); Leah (22) Livelihood: plant manager for local manufacturer Address: 22238 850th Ave., Albert Lea My name is Ken Osmonson and I am running for county commissioner of District 2.

I was born in Austin, and from second grade on raised on a farm near Lanesboro. I graduated from high school in Lanesboro. I was fortunate to receive an appointment to, and accepted at, the U.S. Military Academy. I graduated from West Point with a Bachelor of Science in general engineering and a commission as an Army officer. I spent nine years in the Army with a tour in Europe and the Middle East for Desert

chairman, I have brought committed and dedicated leadership to Freeborn County. In my role as commissioner, I serve on various community committees, including transportation, Save Our Healthcare, Blue Zones, Crime Victim’s Crisis Center and Adult Mental Health. I also serve on the board of directors and transportation committees for both the Association of Minnesota Counties and National Association of Counties.

Since 2002, I have served the area as a doctor of chiropractic and acupuncturist at Shoff Chiropractic in historic downtown Albert Lea. In addition to caring for the multitude of patients, I have authored and presented four research articles at national and international chiropractic conferences and served on the Logan College of Chiropractic Alumni Association Board of Directors, serving as president in 2013.

When not in my practice or working on commissioner items, I enjoy golfing, cooking, painting and playing both piano and guitar.

As mentioned previously, I have been active in both the state and national county organizations. I had the honor of serving as the Association of Minnesota Counties president in 2015, the firstever Freeborn County commissioner to serve in that position in AMC’s 100-year history. I also am one of only three commissioners in Minnesota to be elected to serve on the National Association of Counties Board of Directors. Through those activities I have been able to learn about best practices affecting counties, acquire information about emerging trends, grasp new rules, regulations and laws that will effect county government, and secure relationships with other county, state, and national staff and officials. These experiences have proved vital in my role as Freeborn County commissioner.

I look forward to working on the reconstruction of Bridge Avenue and Main Street, the annexation of the Stables area, the continued development of a healthy community, future economic development and the development of the Union Pacific line from Albert Lea to Hartland, to Waseca and beyond. I look forward to working on and solving the health care issues that have gripped this community so that we can continue to enjoy the vibrant and regionally significant community of Albert Lea. I ask for your continued support and your vote on Nov. 6.

Freeborn County Recorder Christopher Shoff (incumbent and unopposed)

Age: 44 Spouse: N/A Children/grandchildren: N/A Livelihood: chiropractor and acupuncturist at Shoff Chiropractic Address: 405 Garden Road, Albert Lea I am Christopher N. Shoff, and as the current 4th District Freeborn County commissioner and current board

Kelly Callahan (incumbent)

Age: 64 Spouse: Susan Children/grandchildren:

industry as an authority on Torrens title real estate in Minnesota.

It is these qualifications — knowledge, education, experience and professionalism — that make me the My campaign signs say, best candidate for the office “Keep Kelly Callahan Your of county recorder.

County Recorder.” KEEP stands for knowledgeable, educated, experienced and professional. I would like to address each of these qualifications.

Knowledgeable is first.

As a lifelong resident of Freeborn County who grew up and worked in the real estate business, I know the intricacies of county land records. My father was a real estate broker and auctioneer, as well as a frequent court-appointed appraiser for large condem- Sue Tasker nation projects such as I-35 Age: 51 and I-90 by the state of Min- Spouse: John Tasker nesota and Channel View Children/grandchildren: by the city of Albert Lea. two children – Jake is 17 Growing up in that environ- and Amy is 15 ment, coupled with the re- Livelihood: human mainder of my background resources director for working with real estate Good Samaritan Society/ transactions in the legal Comforcare in Austin; MBA profession, has provided student me with an almost infinite Address: 111 5th St. SE, knowledge of Freeborn Geneva County land records.

My name is Susan (SherThe second qualification is education. I am a gradu- burne) Tasker. I was born, ate of the University of Min- baptized, raised, confirmed, nesota-Duluth, with majors graduated and married in in urban studies and politi- Albert Lea. My children cal science and minors in were born in Albert Lea, geography and sociology. I and we moved to Geneva in also have a law degree from 2003. Freeborn County is my Hamline University School home and my family’s home.

I was raised in the conof Law. Changes in the law struction industry. My father, occur frequently, and I have attended numerous semi- the late Glenn Sherburne Sr., nars and meetings to keep was a builder and seller of up-to-date with issues that homes in Albert Lea; and relate to the operation of my mother, the late Delores the county recorder’s office. Sherburne, worked for Dress The next qualification is Realty Inc. for many years. experience. I have over 40 I was raised in real estate. years of experience of deal- My mother’s family owned ing with real estate issues. and operated Hamburger There are approximately Inn in Albert Lea. You see, I 500 references to “recorder” have very strong roots here in Minnesota statutes. The in Albert Lea. After a serious conyears I have served as restruction accident left me corder have allowed me to become extremely familiar without a job, I returned to with all of these references college and became a life and to understand how they learner in the process, currelate to the office. I have rently pursuing an MBA. also become familiar with Human resources is my the various rules of the state field of choice, and I’ve agencies my office is either worked for some great a part of or deals with on a companies as a human reregular basis. Finally, I am sources manager or human totally familiar with the var- resources director.

My husband, John, and ious records and proficient I are avid hunters and arin the use of the technology chers and have shot and utilized by the office.

The last qualification is placed in many tournaments professionalism. I have throughout the states over brought a great amount of the years. Our love of the professionalism to the office outdoors is shared with our of county recorder since two children as we enjoy, 2000. All of my staff are camping, four-wheeling, cross-trained to perform fishing and hunting. My any task or duty within my son, Jake, plays year-round office. I have worked hard baseball, which has us travto make the recorder’s eling often. We are a very office friendly, competent busy family, but I would not and efficient in the services have it any other way.

I am saddened to see my provided. I am fiscally conservative with taxpayer hometown and the county money. I have been a lectur- I grew up in drastically deer/panelist for groups such clining. We have so much as the Albert Lea Board of to offer, but we desperately Realtors, Freeborn/Mower need new leadership to pull and Minnesota Association us through. We need effecof Legal Secretaries, SE tive leaders put in place Minnesota Property Re- now. Term limits would cords Education Partners help rotate leadership, and (where I currently serve having evening meetings as public co-chairman) and would allow the general, Minnesota County Record- working public to attend ers Association and Minne- and have their voices heard.

What once may have sota Land Title Association annual conferences. I act as worked for Freeborn a resource of information County is not working now. to not only the taxpayers of This is where change in Freeborn County but county management is so critical. recorders around the state It is not acceptable to try of Minnesota, and I am rec- and squeeze money out of ognized by my colleagues and people in the real estate See ELECTION, Page B5 two children and two grandchildren Livelihood: Freeborn County recorder since 2000 Address: 311 Lloyd Place, Albert Lea

PAID FOR BY THE FREEBORN COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY

PAGE B4 | ALBERTLEATRIBUNE.COM | TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018

SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES SHARE GOALS

Mark Ciota (incumbent)

Age: 54 Spouse: N/A Children/grandchildren: two children Livelihood: CEO of Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea and Austin, consultant for the Department of Orthopedic Surgery Mayo Clinic Address: 72669 220th St., Albert Lea I have lived in Albert Lea for 23 years. My children attended Albert Lea public schools. I am a product of public education. My father was a high school principal and my mother a teacher in the public schools. I am passionate about public education. I am running for a third term on the school board. I hope to continue in developing offerings and curriculum for all students that will enable the students to succeed after graduation.

I am especially interested in developing programs for non college-bound students who are interested in either going to a technical school or into the workforce immediately after graduating. I have been the treasurer of the board the past two years and have learned much about the complexities of school financing. I would hope to continue to assist the administration to be able to continue our outstanding fiscal management. We have a very diverse student population, and we need to be sure we are meeting the needs of all students, regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic background, primary language, etc. I believe the board should focus on governance and policy, and be supportive of the administration and teachers.

I do not believe the board should micromanage.

wife, Shari, (married 34 years) has been a special ed paraeducator for over 20 years for the Albert Lea schools.

We have lived in Albert Lea for over 23 years. I am a business owner, State Farm insurance agent, rental property owner in Albert Lea and for over 20 years I have been a youth coach and mentor. Along with those duties, I have been a member of numerous area boards, a retired member of the Albert Lea Township Fire Department, YMCA board, Rotary Club, 4-H leader, United Way board, Boy Scouts leader and very active in our church. My hobbies include attending all types of school activities, camping, hiking, traveling and playing pickleball.

My experience in the educational field has included public school teacher (five years), coaching several high school and college sports teams, currently a guest speaker for drivers education and I am just completing my first term on the Albert Lea school board. As a very active member of our board, I have been elected the vice chairman twice and the treasurer one year. I am a founding member of the Austin-Albert Lea Special Education Cooperative, one of seven statewide elected board members for the Minnesota School Board Insurance Trust, finance, facilities and numerous other committees. I have an open door policy when it comes to our students, and I will be your voice for the most important resource we have, our children.

The biggest challenges I see for our district is to increase our kindergarten readiness and continue to offer challenging courses for our students, regardless of their future plans. We need to increase our test scores at all grade levels, and our board needs to focus on communication and cooperation.

This ultimately helps our decision-making process more effective and in the long run is more beneficial to our students and staff. We need to continue to hire and retain top teachers and staff in our district, and I want to see this continue several years in the future by being a member of your school board. I am very happy to see our graduation rates increasing, and I am continuing to look for ways to help not only our collegebound students, but students who choose to go to work or enter the vocational field after graduation. I appreciate your support and vote in November.

Dave Klatt (incumbent)

Age: 58 Spouse: Shari Children/grandchildren: three children Livelihood: State Farm insurance agent Address: 1309 Oriole Drive, Albert Lea I have three grown children whom were very well educated in the Albert Lea district: Travis, 31, Nichelle, 27, and Aaron, 26, and one grandchild on the way. My

Jill Marin (incumbent) Age: 55 Spouse: George Children/grandchildren: two children (Elisha, 26;

Suzie, 24, and her husband, Robert) Livelihood: pastor, chemical dependency chaplain, marriage and family therapist Address: 1311 S. Fourth Ave., Albert Lea Education has always been important to me.

School was a safe place, a place where I could work hard and see the results. I was involved in drama, orchestra, band, choir and National Honor Society. And, I earned valedictorian of my graduating class.

As a parent, I was involved in my children’s classes, volunteering and helping with events. I was able to see areas for improvement in the district and felt I could help. I became an AmeriCorps mentor and tutor. I ran for school board when my children were 11 and 13. The public voted me to office that time and each time after.

During my 12 years on the board, things have changed dramatically. I have worked with two administrations and at least seven different board configurations. Twelve years ago, the district was more relationship-based and teacher-driven. The board was stronger and more collaborative with administration. Voices were valued in the district and community.

Not so much anymore.

When issues arose, I questioned, brought forth concerns and took time to understand. This was not received in a positive way.

My ethics and constitution drive me to stand firm and strong. I am tenacious, committed, intelligent and hardworking, and employ the “what’s best for kids” philosophy. I believe asking questions is part of learning and growing. People should be free to share thoughts and ask questions without fear of retaliation. Elected officials should be able to ask questions and receive answers. This is not happening. Change is needed.

Losing my 16-year-old brother to suicide and other issues I have faced in life have paired with my personality to draw me to the helping professions. I am an ordained minister and a chemical dependency chaplain. I have a bachelor’s in psychology with a minor in mathematics. I earned a master’s in mental health counseling. My credentials include licensed marriage and family therapist, nationally certified counselor and licensed substitute teacher.

I have advocated for social and emotional support for students and families. I have also advocated for equal treatment of schools, for lower taxes and for different pathways for students. I want every student to succeed in his or her desired path toward being a productive community member. In addition to numbers knowledge, I bring a knowledge of family and social systems to the board.

I am not a status quo candidate. I am a change candidate. My focuses are on improving integrity and transparency, climate, public relations and student

REID OLSON

4TH WARD CITY COUNCIL PAID FOR BY REID OLSON

achievement. I want to bring awareness to bullying at all levels. I believe improvement is needed in ethics and legality in board and district operations. I believe the district must take a long, hard look at the issues and dysfunction it is experiencing and not pass blame or make excuses, because the top-down approach is not working, and the students are paying the price. I question often, and I fight hard for what I believe to be right. This is the people’s business, and they deserve our best service.

Brian Anderson

Age: 47 Spouse: N/A Children/grandchildren: N/A Livelihood: finance manager of Theilen Auto Sales of Clear Lake, owner/ operator of Digital Dream Sound Inc. Address: 1419 Academy Ave., Albert Lea I have lived my entire life in Albert Lea — in fact, in the same neighborhood near Halverson School. I grew up about a block from the bus company on East Eighth Street, where my parents still live today. In the early 1990s, I purchased a home on Academy Avenue, less than two blocks from where I spent my childhood, and I have lived there ever since.

I was the oldest of six, so although I have no children of my own, I share those memories of watching children grow up too fast and jumping from grade school to graduation in the blink of an eye. I am now a semiprofessional uncle, and I am reliving that experience with my nieces and nephew; however, they seem to be growing even faster.

Much of my past work experience has revolved around young people. My childhood paper route delivering the Tribune turned into a part-time job in high school training other newspaper carriers and delivering orphaned routes. After graduation, a full-time position opened in the circulation department, managing the paper carriers, and I began working at McDonald’s in the evenings to save money for college.

I spent my early 20s attending Austin Community College on and off as I could afford it and working my way up the ladder at McDonald’s. The years I spent under those “arches” were among my most formative because of all I learned and how the line between “friend” and “family” blurred with the people I got to know there.

I have since been an owneroperator delivering Brownberry/Thomas products to grocery stores and a loan manager at several car dealerships, currently at Theilen Auto in Clear Lake.

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to play in several local bands like Interstate, 5 Below, Inertia and Milo Savage. I am very fortunate that my music hobby has morphed into a small business that keeps me busy most weekends, Digital Dream Sound Inc. We rent out and set up sound equipment for parties and events, but our primary focus is DJ-ing weddings, which is about the most fun you can have while still getting paid.

The highlight of my week is always my family’s Sunday evening tradition of getting together for supper at my home. Having a big family is truly a blessing, especially when my small house comes alive with 10 to 15 members of our inner circle. I either cook a big batch of something or fire up the grill (although

grilling season seems to be a little shorter than it used to be).

I believe my professional experience working with young people as well as my personal encounters with poverty and post-secondary opportunities give me a unique perspective into many of the areas our educational system is struggling with today. I also believe new perspectives are important, and I hope those reading this agree. I ask you all for your support. Either way, please vote Nov. 6.

Dennis Dieser

Age: 57 Spouse: Doreen Children/grandchildren: two children, two grandchildren Livelihood: director of the Albert Lea Family Y Address: 1002 Wood Park Lane, Albert Lea If elected, my aim is to serve the community to the best of my ability, ensuring the success of our students and educational system. I will look at both sides of issues, getting as much information as possible. I will not be afraid to ask questions, making sure to be positive at all times. I feel it is important to agree to disagree.

My previous experience serving on the school board will help me get understand challenges quickly. My purpose for running is to be a servant leader, give back to the community and ensure quality education for our youth. Now that my children are grown, I have the opportunity to give back.

The youth are our future.

Our educators work hard amongst all of the challenges to influence our youth every day.

Communication will be key for continued success of all students. As issues arise and technology changes, the district needs to be at the forefront of information.

An informed public allows for continued dialogue. I am actively involved in the community, serving on many boards and committees. I will be a great resource for sharing information and listening to issues or concerns.

I believe I am a good listener and want to hear all sides of issues before making a decision.

Another key for success is inclusion. The community demographics are changing. It will be important for the district to continue dialogue with other community agencies effectively working with students of all abilities/backgrounds and their families. The continued discussion/work with local agencies are vital for the community. Continuing to work together ensures solutions to demographic concerns. We must be open to new ideas and partnerships ensuring everyone has a voice. One crucial area is students who go to school hungry. Data shows they will struggle to learn.

Families with limited or no transportation is another crucial component in our community. This can cause nonparticipation by students in extracurricular activities and programs.

The development of career paths is critical in the world today. Continued development will strengthen learning opportunities for all students. Providing appropriate career paths for all students allows them to see that there are many options available. There needs to be emphasis on lifelong learning so students keep up with the constant changes.

District 241 is fortunate to have high-quality teachers and staff, allowing us to meet the needs of our students. As a community, we need to continue

to communicate and work together to ensure our education system meets the needs of an ever-changing world. By being proactive and open to change, today’s students will gain the skills/knowledge needed to be tomorrow’s leaders, effectively serving the entire community.

If elected on Nov. 6, I will be excited for the opportunity to serve our school district. Thank you to all who are running for office and willing to serve.

Kim Nelson

Spouse: Jeff Children/grandchildren: two children Livelihood: director of grants and alumni relations at Riverland Community College Address: 24168 770th Ave, Albert Lea To the voters of School District 241, My name is Kim Nelson and I am running for one of the four school board positions for School District 241.

For my career, I have the opportunity to work for Riverland Community College as their director of grants and alumni relations. I live north of Albert Lea in Bancroft Township with my husband, Jeff, of 23 years and our two children, Adam, 19 and Sydney, 16. Jeff has worked for Kibble Equipment (formerly Ag Power) in Hollandale for the past 14 years. Adam graduated from Albert Lea High School in 2017 and is currently a sophomore at South Dakota State University. Adam is majoring in ag business. He belongs to the AGR fraternity and works on campus as a union supervisor. He is loving his college experience. Sydney is a junior at Albert Lea High School.

She plays soccer, is in the concert band (plays flute, clarinet and bass clarinet), is a link crew leader and is on the prom committee. This year, she is taking college in the schools classes and is loving her junior year.

My background is in education and business. For 17 years, I was the director of nonprofit child care centers, both in Albert Lea and in Austin. In 2017 I graduated from SMSU with my bachelor’s degree in business management. It was difficult to manage a full-time job, a family and school, but with my family and friends’ support, we did it. It had been a goal since I left college in 1991 to return for my bachelor’s degree. My next educational goal is to receive a master’s degree in organizational leadership.

In my free time, I volunteer at church and with the soccer boosters. I enjoy spending time with family, which includes Adam’s girlfriend, Megan Lindely, who is a senior at Augustana in Sioux Falls majoring in business, communications and Spanish; and our dog, Ruby.

I also enjoy giving back to many organizations in the community. I was a member of the Noon Kiwanis for 10 years, I am a graduate of the Blandin Community Leadership Program and the Albert Lea Community Leadership Program. I am currently the chairwoman of the Chamber Board of Directors and sit on the CVB board. I have served on the district’s curriculum committee and the Community Education board. I am a past president of Noon Kiwanis and the CVB board. Last spring I had the opportunity to serve as chairwoman of the Vote Yes committee for the District 241 referendum. I look forward to the possibility of representing you on the school board for District 241.

See SCHOOL, Page B5

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018 | ALBERTLEATRIBUNE.COM | PAGE B5

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to create local jobs with above-average wages. We have used tax abatement to secure new investment in housing and small business. We work daily to recruit and attract new businesses to our area. We continue to innovate, and recently we created a new loan program with $600,000 investment to assist business growth. These types of aggressive, pro-active, long-term thinking will secure Albert Lea’s path

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the City Council. Each time I ran for council, I won. I never forget who elected me to office, and am a loyal, supportive advocate of growing our local business community.

I operate from a strengths-based perspective in leadership and adhere closely to the principles of honesty, forthrightness and transparency. I am solidly committed.

I never meet a stranger and always seek for true human connection. As an extreme extrovert, I love meeting

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Kalli Rittenhouse

Age: 45 Spouse: Carl Koppelman Children/grandchildren: son, senior at Albert Lea High School; daughter, kindergartener at Halverson Elementary School Livelihood: quality engineer for Sputtering Components Inc. in Owatonna Address: 78220 197th St., Albert Lea I grew up on a farm in west central Minnesota. I have no brothers, and two sisters, one of which is an identical twin. My parents raised me to believe that I could do anything I wanted to do, whether it conformed to others’ expectations or not. As a senior in high school, I spent the afternoons at the local community college studying auto mechanics instead of taking the more traditional pre-calculus and physics courses to prepare me for college. I took a non-traditional path through three colleges

of increasing job growth.

While growth is our No. 1 priority, all government programs need to be accompanied with careful attention to taxes. Albert Lea has seen our operating taxes remain flat for the past six years, and we are working hard to make 2019 the seventh flat year in row. We’ve done this with a well-planned, common-sense, long-term thinking, five-year capital improvement plan and 10year financial management plan. These solid plans for the future allow us to utilize our assets as needed without tax increases. Growth will

people and seeking for meaningful relationship. I am a progressive thinker, skilled in conflict resolution. I always seek for the best outcomes to bring about life-transforming results. I am a strong leader who asks difficult questions, addresses crucial issues, has critical conversations and affects change in positive directions. I am collaborative by nature and love working with people.

I seek to be a team player but am never afraid to stand alone.

I will seek to lead Albert Lea with truthfulness, passion, compassion, respect for all and integrity.

I will seek to help create the most welcoming business and social climate in southern Minnesota, growing local businesses and aggressively recruiting new industry. I believe we can turn our local economy around and get Albert Lea growing and progressing again, bringing prosperity for all. We will do this through guiding principles.

Prioritizing — focusing on the right needs at the right times. Preserving — appreciating what we already have in our community and building on our successes.

Progressing — leading us in a path of growth together into our future.

to achieve my bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from North Dakota State University. I believe in lifelong learning, and since graduating in 1997, I have worked in many different engineering roles, even outside my chosen field of mechanical engineering. In 2014, I earned a master’s degree in engineering management from the University of Wisconsin at Madison.

For most of my secondary school years, my father served on our local school board. He did not pursue a formal college education, but demonstrated to my sisters and me that education was important. After we all graduated from high school, he didn’t run for a fourth term on the board.

When asked why, he said he had three reasons to serve on the board and named the three of us. With all of us out of school, he felt it was time to step down.

My children are just two of the reasons I have for running for the board. I’m proud of the young man my son is growing into. He was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of 3. The past 14 years raising him has taught me many things. He has both thrived in school and struggled. A one-size-fits-all approach to education will not provide consistent results. Because of his diagnosis he has had an Individualized Education Plan since he was 3. He has grown beyond his diagnosis with the help of many teachers, support staff, family

members and peers.

As I am preparing my son to move on to college or a career after graduation, my daughter is just starting her secondary education. Like the majority of students, she does not get the benefit of an Individualized Education Plan. My daughter and all students’ success will also depend on the help of many teachers, support staff and family members. As a district we have many gaps to fill and are falling short of our proficiency goals.

As I see it, the job of the school board is to ensure that the district has systems in place to identify when students need help and support to reach their proficiency goals, and that teachers have the resources to address students’ needs.

Meet the Minnesota governor candidates Jeff Johnson

Q: Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications

allow us to continue investing in the future. Stagnation will lead to our demise.

As your mayor, I have and will continue to work with the City Council to build a strong plan to achieve growth. We will listen to the public to set our goals through a strategic planning session. We find ways to accomplish our goals with new tools and existing assets. I am committed to the idea of making Albert Lea the choice for success. The success will be measured by our ability to work together to ensure our growth as a community.

of volunteer community boards and organizations including Young Life, Plymouth Christian Youth Center and Concordia’s Alumni Board.

A: Johnson was born and raised in Detroit Lakes, and If elected, what is your graduated from Detroit top priority for the Lakes High School in 1985, Concordia College in Moor- 2019 Legislature? Why head in 1989 and George- are you running for town Law School in Wash- office?

Johnson’s top priority is ington, D.C., in 1992. He and his wife, Sondi (Crookston), making state government have been married for 25 accountable to taxpayers years. They have two boys, again and changing the culture in some of our Thor, 20, and Rolf, state agencies from 17, and one bulldog, that of controlling Chester, 9. and directing us to Johnson has been actually serving the self-employed for taxpayers.

18 years, providing Time and again we workplace investigahave seen important tions and training to functions of governemployers through- Jeff ment completely fail. out the country. He Johnson Elder abuse, child served six years in the Minnesota House and care fraud, the failures of is now in his third and final the MNsure website and term as a Hennepin County the MNLARS disaster.

Real Minnesotans are getcommissioner.

He has taught Sunday ting harmed by government school and confirmation and failures, and hundreds of been active in his church’s millions in taxpayer dollars music program. He has are being wasted or even coached youth football, stolen. Balancing the state baseball and soccer, has budget is important, but tutored homeless children instilling a service culture in Chicago and Minneapolis and has served on a number See GOVERNOR, Page 6

BENNETT Continued from Page B1

with creative solutions to help lower costs and increase access for people.

I look forward to bringing some of these ideas to the Legislature next session.

I love people. One of my favorite parts of my job as state representative is to get out and around

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a population of people that cannot afford to have anything else squeezed out of them. Keep in mind, many of the commissioners and management staff pushing for these levies and increase in wages already make six figures or more.

Freeborn County needs to be lean. I would propose staff reductions because we cannot afford the way things are currently being run. Many counties share an IT department. Why are we funding a full IT department with a full staff plus overtime — with old,

to events and visit with people. I believe people are the most important part of government and that the best ideas come from those who are living and working right here at home. That’s why I get out into our communities yearround to hear from people.

I have learned so much during my past two terms (four years) as our representative, both about our

area and how to get work done in the legislature. I have developed good working relationships with legislative colleagues on both sides of the aisle.

I am looking forward, with my constituents’ support, to put my experience, seniority and strong listening skills to work for our area next session and to continue to be a strong voice for you at the Capitol.

outdated systems in place?

Why not share the county engineer with another vcounty while we are at it? These money-draining departments could be handled responsibly if managed correctly.

I love working with diverse work groups, and I love change management.

Many people struggle with change, especially in the workforce, but understanding the building blocks of change to move forward is essential. I have a thorough understanding of systems and processes and love computer systems that make life easy to manage, but also make the job being done more

accurate and efficient.

This is where Freeborn County sorely lacks.

I am ready for the challenge and to bring my years of experience and educational background to the forefront to serve you, Freeborn County citizens. We need to be better managers and stewards and have people in place that understand budgets, levies, living within our means, lean management, retention, succession planning and more. It is time for change — positive change.

I would be honored to have your vote. Vote for Sue Tasker for county recorder.

We Get It. You are told you can’t complain because you didn’t go to the government meeting, the community occasion or you didn’t volunteer your time. Read about those happenings in the Albert Lea Tribune. We go to the events that you don’t have time for. Don’t miss a day or you will miss a lot.

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PAGE B6 | ALBERTLEATRIBUNE.COM | TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018

Where do the candidates stand in U.S. House and Senate races?

U.S. Senate Amy Klobuchar

Q: Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications.

A: I’ve been guided by the values I learned growing up in Minnesota. My grandpa worked 1,500 feet underground on the Iron Range.

My dad Jim was a newspaperman, and my mom, Rose, was an elementary school teacher who taught second grade until she was 70. My hus- Amy band, John, Klobuchar is a native of Mankato, and we have a daughter, Abigail.

When Abigail was born, she was very sick. And even though she was in intensive care, the hospital discharged me after just 24 hours. As a result, I became an advocate for the successful passage of one the first laws in the country guaranteeing 48-hour hospital stays for new moms and their babies.

As Hennepin County attorney, I headed the largest prosecutor’s office in Minnesota. In 2006, I became the first woman elected to the United States Senate in our state’s history and the Medill News Service reported I ranked first of 100 senators in sponsoring or cosponsoring bills enacted into law during the last Congress. Serving in the U.S. Senate, my focus is on what’s right for Minnesota. That’s why I work across the aisle to find ways to strengthen our economy and support Minnesota families, workers and businesses.

counties every year. At a time when not enough is getting done because of gridlock, grandstanding and the grip big interests have on Washington, I’ve gotten things done by putting partisanship aside and working with Democrats and Republicans to find ways to strengthen our economy and support Minnesotans. I’m proud to work for our state in the U.S. Senate.

Jim Newberger

Q: Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications.

A: I’m a Minnesotan, born and raised. I have been married for 37 years and have worked fulltime as a paramedic.

I have served in the Minnesota House of Representatives for three terms and I am the vice chairman of the Jobs and Energy Committee. I have also served on the eight different mission trips Jim to Asia.

Newberger

Q: If elected, what is your top priority for the 2019 Congress?

Why are you running for office?

A: My top priority would be to work with our president and to put an end to Obamacare. We must have a health insurance market that offers multiple choices, lower costs and higher quality. Senator Klobuchar does not support this. I do. I also support having a safety net, such as MinnesotaCare for our most vulnerable citizens and for those who cannot afford insurance.

We must also make sure that pre-existing condiQ: If elected, what is tions are covered. Senator your top priority for Klobuchar wants to take the 2019 Congress? away everyone’s health inWhy are you running surance and force us all into for office? a big, single-payer, governA: Getting things done for ment program that will cost the people of Minnesota. It’s $32 trillion. why I visit all 87 Minnesota I am running for office

to give every Minnesotan a voice in the U.S. Senate.

Senator Klobuchar has a 90 percent rubber stamp voting record with the Far Left. People in the moderate middle to the conservative right have had no voice with Amy in the U.S. Senate. I will bring balance and give everyone a voice.

I am also deeply disturbed that Senator Klobuchar continues to support Al Franken and Keith Ellison.

Her behavior during the Kavanaugh hearings was unprofessional and unbecoming of a U.S. senator.

U.S. Senatespecial election Karin Housley

Q: Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications.

A: I was born and raised in South St. Paul. After graduating from South St. Paul High School in 1982, I attended Augsburg College in Minneapolis for a short time before moving east and graduating with my Bachelor of Arts in communications from the State University of New York at Buf- Karin falo. After Housley college, I worked as a television news producer before eventually hosting my own radio show, authoring an investment book for women, and starting a successful real estate business in the Stillwater area. In 2012, I was elected to serve the St. Croix River Valley in the Minnesota Senate, where I am particularly passionate about issues facing the elderly, veterans, and small businesses. I serve as chairwoman of the Aging and Long-Term Care Committee, vice chairwoman of the Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee, and serve on the Veterans and Military Affairs and the Jobs and Economic Growth

Good things are happening right now in Albert Lea!

• The mayor and city council are focused on working together for positive changes and growth. We have a “we” not “me” attitude to get things done!

• The City of Albert Lea is partnering with the Port Authority, Watershed Board, community organizations, citizens, plus state and federal officials, to address residential housing, business growth, healthcare options, clean water and more!

• Our population, school enrollment and tax base has increased while the city’s tax levy has not increased for six years!

committees. I married my high school sweetheart, Phil Housley, in 1985. We make our home along the St. Croix River near Stillwater. We are the parents of four grown children and the proud grandparents of two adorable grandsons.

Q: If elected, what is your top priority for the 2019 Congress?

Why are you running for office?

A: I am running for office because I believe Minnesotans need a new voice in the United States Senate.

With the partisan gridlock and obstruction plaguing Washington, it has never been more important for Minnesotans to have an independent voice representing them. As a state senator, I have a proven record of working across the aisle and delivering for my constituents, and I want to continue that record of getting things done in the United States Senate. As I travel all around the state, I hear every day the challenges facing hardworking Minnesotans. People want affordable and accessible health care, safe communities, and more of their hardearned money in their pockets — and I will work with the president and across the aisle to get things done.

Tina Smith

Q: Briefly summarize your personal background and qualifications.

A: I came to Minnesota 34 years ago with my husband Archie to work at General Mills, and we built our lives here. I also started my own small business that I ran for eight years. It was during this time that I started volunteering on local campaigns.

I then went on to work Tina at Planned Smith Parenthood advocating for access to high quality, affordable healthcare. I then served as chief of staff for Mayor R.T. Rybak and as chief of staff and lieutenant governor for Gov. Mark Dayton.

During my time in public service, I’ve made listening to Minnesotans my top priority. Hearing from people across the state about the issues they face informs my work every day in the Senate, where I work hard to get things done and help Minnesotans build better lives.

If elected, what is your top priority for the 2019 Congress? Why are you running for office?

A: The No. 1 issue I hear about from Minnesotans is the rising cost of health care, including the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs. As senator, I have introduced multiple pieces of legislation aimed at closing a loophole that big drug companies use to keep generics off the market and holding big drug companies accountable when they game the system to hike up prices.

I’m running to keep this U.S. Senate seat to continue working on legislation to lower the cost of prescription drugs to make sure

I need your vote November 6th to keep Albert Lea moving forward! GOVERNOR

www.VernRasmussenJr.com

every Minnesotan can lead First and foremost, we a healthy, financially secure must ensure that healthlife. care is affordable, accessible, and high-quality for Jerry Trooien everyone. In order to do this, I’ll work to stop Big Q: Briefly summarize Pharma from limiting comyour personal backpetition from safe generic ground and qualificadrugs, allow Medicare to tions. negotiate directly with drug A: Left unanswered companies, and fight for a public option to add more Q: If elected, what is competition in the insuryour top priority for ance market. the 2019 congress?

By making health care Why are you running more affordable, we can for office?

A: Sadly, the Democratic ensure that middle-class and Republican parties are families have more money broken. A truly independent in their pockets, which is U.S. senator from Minnesota especially critical as real is now an absolute necessity. wages have stagnated and America must become more even declined in recent important than a political years. But we must go furparty. The top priority is to ther if we are going to help be a strong new voice and middle-class and workingforce, to confront the two class families achieve ecoparties and their appeal to nomic security. I will fight the lowest common denomi- for real tax reform that nator. They are in a race to cuts taxes for middle-class the bottom. Only a true inde- workers, rather than giving pendent who will not partici- handouts to billionaires, and pate in the make the other I will advocate for workparty look bad approach can force development training influence the gridlock. Do programs that help people you really believe indepen- qualify for high-paying jobs dent thinking and action will and retrain them when they come from the Democratic find themselves out of work.

Finally, we must end or Republican parties? Neithis costly trade war. Our ther do I. It is hard to get good policy when our poli- farmers, particularly our tics is bad. An independent soybean growers and pork senator would be a major producers, are struggling force in the issues of the because of these reckless day including health care, tariffs. They do not want a education, foreign affairs, handout, they are looking for access to the markets immigration etc. they opened in the first place. That’s why I would stand-up for our farmers, no U.S. House matter who is in the White House, so that Congress is Dan Feehan a co-equal branch of govQ: Briefly summarize ernment that has a voice in your personal backtrade policy. Furthermore, I ground and qualificawould work to protect existtions.

A: Growing up here in ing markets and create new southern Minnesota, I ones both here locally and learned the importance across the world.

In order to address these of everyone in a community doing their part, and items, we need leaders who I have strived to live a life are not beholden to party leaders or corporate special dedicated interests. to serving others. After Jim Hagedorn witnessing Q: Briefly summarize firsthand the your personal back9/11 attack ground and qualificaon the Pentations. gon, I joined A: I was born in Blue Army ROTC Dan Earth and grew up on and went on Feehan the Hagedorn family to serve two combat tours in Iraq where grain and hog farm near I disarmed roadside bombs Truman. After graduating and captured dangerous from George terrorists. Upon returning Mason Unifrom Iraq, I taught middle versity with school math in high needs a degree in communities, and was then Government fortunate enough to advo- and Politics, I cate for our servicemem- went to work bers and veterans as an as a congresacting assistant secretary sional staffer Jim of defense. These experi- to former U.S. Hagedorn ences taught me the very Rep. Arlan real life and death conse- Stangeland. I then worked quences of federal policy- in two U.S. Department of Treasury executive pomaking. In each of these positions, I worked with sitions and have worked in a very diverse set of indi- various management capacviduals and ideologies, and ities for businesses based in I learned that even when southern Minnesota. we disagree, we can accomplish tremendous tasks and If elected, what is your improve people’s lives by top priority for the working together.

2019 Congress? Why

Q: If elected, what is your top priority for the 2019 Congress?

Why are you running for office?

A: Meeting with tens of thousands of southern Minnesotans throughout this campaign, I have consistently heard from them that healthcare is too expensive, real wages are stagnant, and the trade war weakens our economy.

in bipartisan lawmaking by the Lugar Center, an independent WashingtonContinued from Page 5 based research group. I back into government and want take my experiences ensuring that tax money is and create one Minactually helping Minneso- nesota, where we tans is even more so. all have a seat at the table and work to improve the lives of all Tim Walz Minnesotans.

Briefly summarize

your personal background and qualifications.

If elected, what is your top prior- Tim Walz ity for the 2019 Legislature? Why are you running for office?

I am a teacher, coach, 24-year National Guard veteran, and a Congressman. I have a proven track record of working across the aisle Peggy and I are running to get things done. In fact, to build one Minnesota — I have been rated a leader a Minnesota where every

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are you running for office?

A: I’m running for Congress to serve as a conservative reinforcement in the U.S. House and to partner with likeminded colleagues to keep moving our nation in the right direction — to keep America safe; make America prosperous; defend our God-given rights and sustain agriculture and our rural southern Minnesota way of life.

child has the opportunity to succeed and hope for the future, a Minnesota with fair wages, fully-funded public schools and affordable health care, a Minnesota where we protect our environment, invest in renewable energy and jobs, and maintain our roads, bridges and transit across the state. We want to bring this vision to the governor’s office by bringing everyday people — no matter where they live or what they look like — who are impacted by policy decisions into the decision-making process.