Area briefs: Wabasha plants 96 trees to replace ash trees

WABASHA — Wabasha Public Works Department has planted 95 trees of six different varieties as part of an effort to replace trees lost during the emerald ash borer outbreak.

The city cut down 950 ash trees because of the invasive bug that attacks and kills trees. The insect decimated almost all ash trees in Wabasha. So far, the public works department has planted all the way to and along Bridge Avenue. Depending on the city’s budget, there will be a tree order of roughly the same size in years to come, to keep replacing boulevard and park trees.

"Trees increase our air pollution filtration, provide shade, and increase property value," said Public Works Director Tony Johnson. "If you get a tree on your boulevard, we ask the public to help us out by keeping the trees watered next spring."

The Wabasha-Kellogg Foundation supported the purchase of some of these trees with a financial contribution to the city. To donate, visit the Wabasha-Kellogg Foundation at smifoundation.org/wabasha-kellogg/contact-us with your gift being designated for "Wabasha Trees."

Janelle Wollenburg won a seat on the Lyle School Board. Wollenburg, who ran unopposed in the special election to fill the vacated seat, earned 31 votes vs. no write-ins, according to the Minnesota Secretary of State website.

In Caledonia, Erin Hammell won 238-189 vs. write-in candidates for a seat on the school board.

In St. Charles, Eric Manley won 72-62 running unopposed for a seat on the school board.

WINONA — Minnesota State College Southeast will host open house events at both its Winona and Red Wing campuses next week.

Students are invited to visit the college in person and explore the campuses and program areas. The open house in Winona is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. Tuesday at 1250 Homer Road, and the Red Wing open house is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. Wednesday at 308 Pioneer Road.

Open houses allow prospective students to tour facilities, meet faculty and staff, learn about the admissions process, find out about financial aid options, and learn about student services such as Veterans Services and Disability Services.

The college will waive the $20 application fee for anyone who meets with student services staff and applies for admission at the event. There will also be snacks, games and prizes.

WINONA — Habitat for Humanity serving Winona County is preparing to build another home in Winona and will accept applications from Nov. 8 to Dec. 15.

The community information session will be held at East End Rec from 5-7 p.m. both Nov. 15-16. Snacks and refreshments will be served.

Habitat for Humanity builds safe, decent, affordable homes, partnering with individuals and families from application, through construction, to when the keys are handed over. By working together from start to finish, Habitat helps homebuyers prepare for the responsibilities of homeownership. Once selected, Habitat homebuyers partner with Habitat through 325 hours of sweat equity volunteering. Homebuyers must also be willing and able to pay an affordable mortgage.

To learn more about the homeownership program or complete an application, visit the Habitat website at habitatwinona.org or call (507) 457-0003.

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