Spring 2018 Lawn & Home

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 12

• Gardening Flowers • Fences • Financing • Siding • Windows • Do-It-Yourself Projects • Plumbing • Remodeling • Flooring • Kitchen & Baths

HOME & LAWN IMPROVEMENT TIME

• Lawn Care • Landscaping • Recycle Clean-Up ... and much more!

A Special Supplement To The Freeborn County Shopper May 1, 2018

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 2

Make Spring Cle an-Up a Breeze

Eat Fresh Vege tables With a Raised Garden Did you know?

Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, with one medium tomato providing 40% of the recommended daily amount.

Benefits of a raised garden It’s an excellent way to grow plants, especially if you are new to gardening Raises your plants to a more comfortable height, making it

easier to plant, inspect and care for

Provides drainage, protecting your plants from overwatering

Allows you to better control nutrition of the soil by creating a barrier between the bed and natural soil

Fairly simple to build and moveable

You can plant earlier in the spring because the sun warms the bed faster than the ground By using cloth or netting, it’s easy to control pests, temperature and moisture

Building options Raised garden beds can be made from several different materials including lumber, concrete block, basins or bathtubs. Building with wood is the most common as it’s fast and easy. Concrete edgers are another material that is both easy to work with and inexpensive.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 11

Garden beds can be a variety of sizes. The width of the bed should be no more than three feet so you can reach your plants from both sides. The length can be as large as you like, but smaller boxes grant you greater access to your plants. The depth should be between ten inches and three feet. Beyond these guidelines, a garden bed can be a wide variety of shapes, sizes and materials, and besides making gardening easier, can add as much character to your yard as the plants themselves.

If you want your home to look fresh and clean, there are some basic cleaning chores that need to be done once or twice a year.

• Wipe down to remove dirt and prevent permanent stains

Check your appliances

• Keep the entrance to your home looking fresh and clean

Exterior

• Vacuum the coils on your refrigerator

Check for fence and exterior repairs

Clean patio furniture

Lawn maintenance or pest prevention may need to be performed

• Remove lint and debris from your dryer vent and exhaust

Clean grill Remove built-up debris in gutters Wash windows

Inspect and perform maintenance on your heating and cooling units

Check weather stripping & seals for repairs

• Replace filters

Clean exterior doors

We Can Help! New Construction or Home Improvements... We’ve Got You Covered!

• Inspect all hoses and cords

• Clean out accumulated spills in your oven and refrigerator With a little effort this spring, your home will be ready to entertain guests throughout the summer.

• Clean vents and exhaust areas, removing all debris

Interior Store winter clothes in totes and other organizers

RICH HONSTAD • Siding • Windows • Decking

• Roofing • Insulation • Construction

507-863-2100 398 5th Ave., Freeborn, MN 507-383-1113

Visit Our Showroom in Downtown Freeborn

Rightway Roofing & Remodeling

DO IT THE RIGHT WAY THE FIRST TIME Top Quality Work at Affordable Prices

COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • FARM Shingles • Hot Tar • Rubber• Metal & Flat Roofing

FREE ESTIMATES • BONDED • INSURED

507-373-0409 Cell 507-391-2362

71338 180th St., Albert Lea, MN License #20037743

Albert Lea’s Most Experienced & Reliable Full-Service Residential & Commercial

Home Equity Loans

Albert Lea, Minnesota

FIXED RATE

4.99%

APR

FIXED UP TO 80% LTV

5.49%

507-884-0200

APR

DESIGN | INSTALL | MAINTAIN

FIXED UP TO 100% LTV

Terms Up To 7 Years $5,000 Minimum Loan

Variable rate loans with terms up to 15 years also available

Now Serving all Residents of Freeborn & Mower Counties

430 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea, MN 507-377-1616 507-377-0276 www.unitedecu.com

New Construction, Residential, Commercial 24 HOUR SERVICE – FREE ESTIMATES

www.platinumplumbingmn.com

TREE CARE &

REMOVAL PROVIDER

507-369-8388 ROOTED IN INTEGRITY

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 10

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 3

Curb appe al pays off big time

The Green, Green, Grass of Home With the outdoor season upon us, there are a few simple ways to help your lawn stay lush and green and become the pride and joy of your neighborhood.

You can start by giving your lawn a good raking to create a de-thatching effect and “wake up” the lawn for the season.

Cutting Regular cutting of the lawn is important because it thickens the grass. Cutting it little and often is better than all in one go. Switch directions and patterns so the grass blades aren’t pressed in the same direction each time. In the middle of summer, you might want to keep the grass a little longer so it withstands periods of drought.

Fertilizing Cutting the grass removes nutrients that need to be replaced to achieve healthy growth. From the beginning of spring, you should fertilize the lawn every four or five weeks. Nitrogen, potassium and phosphorous are important ingredients for a healthy lawn. Application amounts and instructions are available on most fertilizer packaging.

Watering If you want a lawn that is lush and green all summer, watering is important. How often you need to water your lawn depends on temperature and humidity. When a lawn needs water, the grass will begin to take on a blue-gray

Ready to Mow? We’re here to help!

Mower & Gator Service Inspection Specials Snow to Mow Service Special

How attractive a home looks from the outside is often a good indication that a homeowner also takes pride in the interior. You can improve your home’s curb appeal with a few minor landscaping upgrades.

tint, and the older grass blades will begin to curl up and wilt. New lawns should be watered once a day so seeds can germinate and a solid root system can form. You can water your lawn by hand or select from a variety of sprinkler options or automated irrigation systems.

Clean and repair – Weed gardens, flower beds and edging, cut back overgrown plants and shrubs that block windows or spill over walkways, trim trees and power-wash paths, sidewalks and porches.

With persistence, you can win the battle against weeds using the right tools, herbicides or weed-n-feed products. Also, the grass roots need air in order to grow, therefore it is important to occasionally aerate your lawn to clear away dead roots and thatch to create more breathing space for the lower parts of the grass plus help stems grow better.

BUYERS OF ALL SCRAP METALS

All Concrete Yard 70,000 sq. ft. Metals Building

HIGHEST ID! PRICES PA

Focus on the front porch – Place potted evergreens or other plants at the base of front steps, hang flowering baskets and replace worn welcome mats.

Block what’s ugly – Hide unsightly air conditioning units, meter boxes, propane tanks,

Turn your JUNK into

Root River Hardwoods, Inc.

CASH!

Pick-up and Delivery Available!

reduce utility bills with the shade they provide.

Add Color – Edge sidewalks and tree bases and add brightly colored flowering annuals.

Add a structure – Fences, pergolas, arbors and landscape blocks can define and complement different areas and promote year-round curb appeal.

Rethink walkways – Carve a path to your front entry or seating area near your yard’s most attractive spots, using gravel, wood chips or landscape blocks.

Refine foundations – Design landscaping beds closest to the front of your home to look interesting year-round.

Combine various types of plants, rocks, mulch and shrubs with flowering annuals when perennials aren’t blooming.

Plant a tree – Trees can add much value to your home.

They can help prevent erosion, improve air quality and even

Suppliers of Quality Kiln Dried Hardwood Lumber (Red Oak, Walnut, Cherry, Etc.)

Also: Trim, Paneling, Flooring, Stair Parts, Doors & Plywood

Albert Lea • Glenville •

Come Visit Our Showroom MINNESOTA

Call for more details: Hollandale| 507-889-4221

IOWA

1560 400th St. | Kensett, IA 50448 | 641-845-2990

rusty sheds and more with plants or accessories.

Kensett •

LOCATED SOUTH OF KENSETT, IA

M BUCK’S

1300 Energy Drive • Preston, MN 55965 1.507.765.2284 • preston@rootriverhardwoods.com ____________________________________ 404 Airport Road • Albert Lea, MN 56007 1.507.377.8781 • albertlea@rootriverhardwoods.com

www.rootriverhardwoods.com

Have a seat – Create a spot that invites people to sit out front. Place an attractive bench

beneath a large tree or tuck a bistro table and chairs on a porch or amidst a densely flowered garden.

Light the way – Low-voltage outdoor lights can be used to define a walkway, spotlight a tree, highlight landscaping, showcase shrubs or accent an entry way.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 9

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 4

How to Conser ve Energy Throughout Summer Energy bills tend to be high in summertime, when many people crank up their air conditioners in an attempt to combat the heat.

For some households, higher energy bills might be stretching their budgets, while others might be looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprints.

Conserving energy can help homeowners save money and help the planet at the same time. And reducing energy consumption in the summer does not require men and women to sacrifice comfort

in the name of conservation. In fact, various strategies can help homeowners and apartment dwellers reduce their summertime energy consumption.

• Stop cooling an empty home. A cool home might be the ultimate necessity during summer heat waves, but there’s no reason to cool a residence when no one is home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, operating thermostats more efficiently can help homeowners trim their cooling costs by as much as 10

percent. One way to be more efficient with thermostats is to keep the house warmer than normal when no one is home.

Programmable thermostats can be set so air conditioning units turn on shortly before residents arrive home, ensuring the house is comfortable and no energy is wasted.

the lower cooling costs will be.

While it may be tempting to set thermostats to room temperature (68 F) on days when temperatures reach 90 F or above, that’s an enormous temperature gap that will result in a high energy bill.

Instead, the DOE recommends setting thermostats to 78 F whenever possible.

• Narrow the gap between indoor and outdoor temperatures.

The DOE notes that the smaller the difference between the temperature indoors and outside

• Open the windows at night. Daytime temperatures, particularly during the dog days of summer, may necessitate the use of air conditioners. But men

and women who live in climates where temperatures drop considerably at night can sleep with their windows open. This reduces energy consumption and saves money, and can be a great way to introduce fresh air into a home during a time of year when air can become stagnant.

• Do not set air conditioner thermostats at lower than normal temperatures when turning them on. The DOE notes that setting thermostats at lower than normal temperatures when turning air

WINDOWS & DOORS Means Personal & TO ELEVATE WINDOWS & DOORSEVERYDAY! TO ELEVATE YOUR EVERYDAY! YOUR Timely Service Locally Owned & Owner Operated

~ No BS with TS! (No Bad Service) ~

conditioners on will not cool homes any faster than setting them at typical temperatures.

Such a strategy will only lead to excessive energy consumption and higher energy bills.

• Install ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can improve cooling efficiency in a home. According to the DOE, ceiling fans allow men and women who use air conditioners to raise the thermostats on their AC units about 4 F without adversely affecting comfort levels.

Men and women who live in

temperate climates may find that ceiling fans are enough to keep rooms cool without the need for air conditioners.

Homeowners can combat high utility bills and excessive energy consumption during the summer with various eco- and budgetfriendly strategies.

Make yourself a home.

Come Home to Comfort...

WE’LL HELP YOU PROTECT IT.

Our smart home security systems keep your loved ones and home safe from intruders, carbon monoxide, fire, and other threats. Watch live video, arm/disarm your system, and control your lights and thermostat from easy-to-use web and mobile interfaces.

Thinking About Spring Projects?

UP TO

40%

CALL

507-553-3465

ENERGY SAVINGS!

Custom Window Designs

136 S. Broadway • Wells, MN • 507-553-3465 cwdesigns@bevcomm.net Wayne & Mary Bohm, Owners

We Have Over 100 Roll Off Dumpsters

888.264.6380 heartlandss.com

Siding • Windows • Roofing Gutters • Gutter Protection Doors • Decks • Drywall General Residential Carpentry

Albert Lea, MN

Over 20 Years Experience Call 507-318-0928 or 507-383-2719 MN License #BC688031

www.minnesotacustomremodelers.com

FLOOR TECH, INC. Your Source for All Your Flooring Needs!

In 12 yd, 20 yd, 30 yd and 40 yd Sizes to Fit Your Needs!

THOMPSON SANITATION 256-4370 OFFICE

108 W. MAIN PO BOX 154 • CLARKS GROVE, MN

CARPET | VINYL | LAMINATE | HARDWOOD Call Us Now for a Consultation at One of Our 2 Convenient Locations 971 Plaza Street W Albert Lea, MN 56007 507-377-4284

2201 E. Main St., Albert Lea 507-552-1637

322 E. Main St., Blooming Prairie 507-583-2276

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 5

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 8

Mulch Can Help Your Plants Thri ve As you begin to plan your spring landscaping, mulch can help your plants thrive so don’t forget to consider your options.

Benefits of mulch • Completes the look of your yard or flower bed • Acts as a natural weed control • Maintains moisture levels in your soil, protecting from over and under watering • Acts as a barrier to fluctuating temperatures that can damage your plants

•P lant-based mulch adds nutrients back into the soil as it decomposes Types of mulch • Leaves or grass clippings decompose quickly and enrich the soil • Bark is decorative, decomposes slowly and adds nutrients to the soil • Wood chips are decorative, decompose quickly and add nutrients to the soil • Stones or pebbles are decorative but not beneficial to the soil like plantbased mulch, but won't have to be replaced every year

Having success with mulch

clear mulch away from a four-inch area around each plant base to prevent too much water or not

• Protect the yard around your planting bed with edging • For new plants, shrubs or trees, install them in the soil before you add mulch and allow plenty of room to grow. Adding mulch retains water

BOBCAT EQUIPMENT RENTAL BOBCAT COMPACT EQUIPMENT

• When adding new mulch to a perennial planting bed, remove the old layer so you don't cause rot, starve from nutrients or kill them • Mulch should never be more than three inches thick in a planting bed • For mature plants, shrubs or trees,

4-HOUR

DAY

WEEKEND

WEEK

MONTH*

Medium frame skid-steer loaders – S590 S70

$110

$150

$225

$600

$1,800

Large frame skid-steer loaders – S750 S450

175

250

375

1,000

3,000

Walk behind track loaders – MT55

90

140

210

560

1,680

Medium frame track loaders – T450

150

200

300

800

2,400

Medium frame track loaders – T590

200

275

400

1,100

3,300

Large frame track loaders – T770

250

350

525

1,400

4,200

Excavator – E35i

150

200

300

800

2,400

Excavator – E55

275

350

525

1,400

4,200

ATTACHMENTS

There's never been a better time to get a WOW! kitchen

15C auger w/up to 12" bit

4-HOUR

DAY

WEEKEND

WEEK

MONTH*

$90

$130

$200

$520

$1,560

*** Bits larger than 12" add $1/per inch of bit (i.e. 18" bit would add $18 to the rental) Auger bits

$1/inch of bit size plus $10 – per day

Attachment plus kit

$25

Auger extension – 24"

30

80

240

Angle broom – 68" ($65/inch wear)

100

150

225

600

1,800

Breaker

100

150

225

600

1,800

150

250

350

1,000

3,000

Grader – 96"

200

300

800

2,400

Grader w/lasers $500 deposit

300

450

1,200

3,600

Landplane

75

115

300

900

Brushcat Rotary Cutter – 72” $250 blade deposit ™

Pallet fork Post pounder

150

Rock bucket – 74"

50

75

200

600

200

300

800

2,400

50

75

200

600

MT55

T590

ENGINE: 25 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 550 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 2610 lb.

Walk-behind track loader

ENGINE: 66 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 2100 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 7822 lb.

Track machine

T450

T770

ENGINE: 61 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 1400 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 6148 lb.

Track machine

ENGINE: 92 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 3475 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 10327 lb.

Track machine

S590

S750

•N ever rust or need to be painted

ENGINE: 66 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 2100 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 6593 lb.

Wheeled machine

ENGINE: 85 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 3200 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 8730 lb.

Wheeled machine

Copper gutters add elegance and class to your home.

E35i

E55

ENGINE: 24.8 hp TAIL SWING: Zero DIG DEPTH: 10.2 ft.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 7468 lb.

Open cab, 13" or 20" bucket

ENGINE: 49.8 hp TAIL SWING: 13.4" Conventional DIG DEPTH: 14.6 ft.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 12313 lb.

Extended arm

RENTAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS Charge for daily rental is a 24-hour time period. This time starts at either pickup or upon delivery. A weekend rental is picked up Friday after 3 p.m. and dropped off Monday morning. Weekly rentals are based on a 7-day rental. Monthly rentals are based on a 28-day rental. Longer rental or lease options are available upon request.

Root grapple – 72"

100

150

225

600

1,800

Soil conditioner – 72" manual

100

150

225

600

1,800

Make home yourself at home

Stump grinder

100

150

300

800

2,400

Rental rates do not include taxes, physical damage insurance, miscellaneous charges, delivery and/or pickup.

Sweeper – 72" w/gutter brush ($65/inch wear)

125

175

260

700

2,100

Cleaning charges of $100 may be assessed at the end of a rental if the equipment is not returned clean.

with a loan from Accentra

Tiller – 76"

100

150

225

600

1,800

All rental machines are filled with fuel at the time of rental. A fuel surcharge will be assessed if the machine is not returned full.

Trencher – 313 4 ft. bar

100

150

225

600

1,80

Delivery and pickup are available.

Whether you’re looking to make improvements to your current home or you’ve decided to make the move to a new address, Accentra will work with you to find the best loan for your needs.

Learn more at accentracu.org/homeloans

Together, We Are Building A Better Community

20

accentracu.org • 800-533-0448 Federally Insured by NCUA

4-HOUR

B-B 14000# GVW Loss of chain $43.80 per chain

Quoted machine rates include one bucket.

A valid driver’s license and PRE-APPROVED credit card are required.

The customer is responsible for any and all damages occurring during the rental period.

Units will be inspected before and after rental.

TRAILER DAY

WEEKEND

WEEK

MONTH*

$80

$120

$240

$720

Loss of binder $34.80 per binder *1 month = 4 weeks

Gut ters Can Save on Water Damage

Complete terms and conditions will be provided on rental contract at the time of transaction.

The lessee shall carry and provide proof of liability insurance, naming your Sanco Equipment as a loss payee or additional insured. It must cover the full value of the equipment rented against all risk of physical damage and loss, including vandalism and theft.

All major credit cards accepted.

Authorized Bobcat Dealer

Sanco Equipment

2317 Consul St., Albert Lea, MN 56007 507-373-4490 • www.sancoequipment.com Bobcat®, the Bobcat logo and the colors of the Bobcat machine are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries. 17-B150

Houses with properly installed and maintained gutters will decrease the likelihood of wood rot to your home’s soffits, fascia, caulking or paint. Plus, moving water away from your home is healthy for your foundation.

Types of gutters Aluminum gutters are low maintenance and come in a variety of colors to accent your home •M ost common gutter product used today in the United States • Many color options

• I ncredibly durable making it a sound choice for parts of construction that are subject to excessive wear and tear or significant rainfall •A lthough a bit more expensive than other options, they are longer lasting and will not need to be repainted or resealed Steel gutters are strong, durable, longlasting and can withstand a variety of weather conditions •D urability make them more resistant to damage from hail, ice and snow •R esist damage from other sources such as ladders or heavy branches Vinyl gutters will not rust and are easy to cut to size for any home •W eigh very little making them easy to install • Do not rust nor require painting • Lowest cost gutters •K eep them cleaned out as leaves and debris can clog them

1031 Bridge Ave. Albert Lea, MN Follow the signs – Enter at BridgeClip Ave.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 6

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 7

ELECTRONIC WASTE 2018

Use Renovations to Cre ate He althier Homes

and Save

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Home renovation projects are done for several different reasons, whether to update styles, repair damaged or broken items or to achieve more living space. More than ever before, homeowners are choosing improvement projects geared toward making their homes healthier.

FREEBORN COUNTY

Friday, May 18, 2018Fairgrounds Freeborn Co. 1031 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea Residential Recycling Household Hazardous Waste

Electronic Waste 2018 & Friday, Sept. 21, 2018 September 21, 2018 Friday, May 18, Freeborn CountyFriday, Fairgrounds

1031 Bridge Ave. Albert Lea, MN ollow the signs – Enter at Bridge Ave. ITEMS

DESCRIPTION

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Large

Console and Projection TV

Friday, May 18, 2018

2018

COST $20.00

10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Follow the Signs Enter at Bridge Ave.

different Y people. For example, to F R EEB O R Nthings COtoUNT an environmentalist, a healthy home may

“Electronic Waste” shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, any Friday, September 21,Computer 2018 $15.00 of the following collected electronics: video display devices (including Reg. TV & Monitor any FLAT or computer monitors and televisions, DVD Players, VCRs, computers CRT DESCRIPTION COST (both desktop and laptop), computer and electronic peripherals $20.00 SCAN Console and Projection TV (including but not limited to keyboards, computer mice, printers, or any $3.00 similar device external to a computer that provides input or output SmallMonitorKitchen, $15.00 TV & Computer any FLAT or microwaves/toasters/ CRT into or from a computer), fax machines, scanners, external disc drives/ blenders/vacuum cleaner/printers/ SCAN burners, computer speakers, gaming controls, and zip and flash drives, $3.00 Kitchen, microwaves/toasters/ speakers/CPU/Laptops and other electronic equipment containing a circuit board or power blenders/vacuum cleaner/printers/ City Day Time 1031 Bridge Ave. MN small Non-Freon household appliances, speakers/CPU/Laptops cord. Albert We wouldLea, also accept included Misc. connecting wire/mice/keyboards/etc like toasters, blenders, included connecting wire/mice/keyboards/etc Follow the signs – Enter at Bridgevacuums, Ave. and microwaves.

eeborn

Freeborn County Fairgrounds

Wed

12-3

“Electronic Waste” be limited to, any of the am 10:00 llandale Wedshall include, 12-3but not necessarily Date City Day Time

Waste” shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, any of the ollected electronics: video display devices (including computer nd televisions, DVD Players, VCRs, computers (both desktop and mputer and electronic peripherals (including but not limited to computer mice, printers, or any similar device external to a hat provides input or output into or from a computer), fax scanners, external disc drives/burners, computer speakers, trols, and zip and flash drives, and other electronic equipment a circuit board or power cord. We would also accept small household appliances, like toasters, blenders, vacuums, and .

NO EARLY DROP-OFFS

COST *It is illegal to drop off and leave items meant for collection without registering. $20.00

Clarks 9-12 Grove Wed Sat Misc.

Albert 12-3 Lea Sat Thu

12-3 8-18 9-12 enville county 9-8 Albert Lea Sat 9-12 “Electronic Waste” shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, any of the minnesota 9-13 Glenville Thurs ctions are held at the City of following collected12-3 electronics: video display devices (including computer

fer Station, 2506 West Richway MN. The Albert Lea

included freeborn connecting wire/mice/keyboards/etc

monitors and televisions, DVD Players, VCRs, computers (both desktop and laptop), computer and electronic peripherals (including but not limited to keyboards, computer mice, printers, or any similar device external to a computer that provides input or output into or from a computer), fax machines, scanners, external disc drives/burners, computer speakers, gaming controls, and zip and flash drives, and other electronic equipment containing a circuit board or power cord. We would also accept small Non-Freon household appliances, like toasters, blenders, vacuums, and microwaves.

Hazardous Waste Collections are held at the City Transfer Station, 2506 W. Richway Drive, Albert Lea, MN her cities are generally near the tation. Collections in other cities are generally near a city hall or fire station.

Inadequate housing conditions, such as poor ventilation, radon, pollution, and moisture issues, can contribute to many preventable diseases and injuries — especially respiratory problems, nervous system disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Indoor air quality is a top five environmental risk to public health. Studies have found that indoor air pollution levels were roughly two to five times greater than outdoor pollution levels.

2018

Household Friday, May 18, 2018 Hazardous Waste Friday, September 21, 2018

Writtenany survey of all participants. artland 12-3 6-7 Tue Emmons Thurs 12-3 $15.00 Reg. TV & Computer Monitor FLAT isorrequired Residents may attend any www.co.freeborn.mn.us/ CRT 12-3 bert Lea 9-12 6-19 Sat Hayward Tues collection in any city.

SCAN 6-26 Hartland Tues 12-3 in Lakes Thu 3-6 $3.00 Small Kitchen, microwaves/toasters/ 7-7 Albert 12-3 Lea Sat 9-12 ks Grove Wed blenders/vacuum cleaner/printers/ 7-12 Twin Lakes Thurs speakers/CPU/Laptops 3-6 bert Lea Sat 9-12

7-18 bert Lea

incorporate eco-friendly or green products.

Residential To Recycling those with young children or mobilityimpaired seniors, a healthy home may be one Household Hazardous Waste free from potential hazards. Others may view Electronica healthy Wastehome as one that alleviates allergies.

– 2:00 pm

following collected electronics: video display devices (including computer bert Lea Sat 9-12 monitors and televisions, DVD Players, VCRs, computers 4-25 Freeborn Wed (both desktop 12-3 and Aldenlaptop), computer Thu and electronic 3-6 peripherals (including but not limited to 5-9 Hollandale device external 12-3to a keyboards, computer mice, printers, or Wed any similar enevacomputer that Wed 3-6 provides input or output into or from a computer), 5-12 Albert Lea Sat 9-12 fax machines, scanners, external disc drives/burners, computer speakers, bert Lea Sat 9-12 www.co.freeborn.mn.us/ 5-17 Alden Thurs 3-6 DESCRIPTION ITEMS gaming controls, and zip and flash drives, and other electronic equipment mmons Thu 12-3 5-30 Geneva Wed 3-6small containing a circuit board or power cord.

We would also accept Large Console and Projection TV Non-Freon household appliances, ayward Tue 12-3 6-2 Albert Lea like toasters, Sat blenders, vacuums, 9-12 and microwaves.

Establishing a healthy home means different

Shopper

The

Freeborn County

People interested in making their homes healthier can embrace these renovations and lifestyle changes.

• Be aware of furniture materials. Toxic PBDEs, which are chemicals used as flame retardants on furniture fabrics produced prior to 2006, can send toxins into the air. Some manufacturers may still use these flame retardants in new forms, but with similar risks. Before purchasing furniture, ask if a product is treated, and select naturally fireresistant materials like wool and cotton.

The Sunlight Institute advises that there’s no harm in letting natural sunlight do its work, as bacteria within eight feet of low-intensity UV light can be killed in 10 minutes.

• Inspect and service wood-burning appliances. Regular inhalation of wood smoke limits immune activity and function, and anyone who burns wood indoors should be aware of these potential health risks.

Ensuring proper ventilation of smoke and routinely cleaning the chimney can help cut down on particulate matter.

• Turn to nontoxic cleaning products, pesticides and insecticides. Always opt for nontoxic, natural products when cleaning in and around the house.

• Lighten up. Lighting is often under appreciated but can have a dramatic impact on whether a home feels inviting, warm and/or uplifting. Experiment with different types of bulbs and lighting fixtures to turn drab and dreary environments into brighter places. Lighting may improve mood and productivity.

• Let the sun shine in. Modify window treatments to let more sunlight into the house. There is evidence that the sun, particularly UV light, is a potent bactericide.

• Declutter the home. A cluttered, hectic space can affect emotions and mental state, never mind attracting dust and making a home harder to clean. Spending time in spaces that do not elicit stressful feelings is healthier and can help residents to rest and recharge.

Making a home healthier can be on the list of this year’s renovation plans.

Read Our Magazines and Publications On-Line at

How to Transform a Room Weekend Home Projects

Improve Your Outdoor Living Experience Creating a Sale-Worthy Showplace Turn the page to find help with these ideas and more!

Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper

SPRING 2018

Dale Larson

Farming

VENUES ACCOMMODATIONS HONEYMOONS CAKES INSURANCE TRANSPORTATION

HAIR MAKE-UP NAILS TANNING FITNESS WEDDING RINGS

DECORATIONS RENTALS DRESSES/TUXES SAVE THE DATE CARD FLORAL WEDDING REGISTRY

A S p e c i a l S u p p l e m e n t To T H E F R E E B O R N C O U N T Y S H O P P E R F e b r u a r y 2 7 , 2 0 1 8

Heartland

134th Annual

Tuesday-Sund ay August 1-6, 2017 Minnesota residents pay in-state tuition rates so we keep your education affordable too!

An Agricultural, Farming & Rural Development Supplement Covering Freeborn County, Mower County & Surrounding Areas

EARLYFarmers DROP-OFFSmay bring their unwanted agriculture pesticides to the Household Hazardous Waste Collections for disposal. Funding for this program is rop off and leave itemsbymeant provided the Minnesota Department of Agriculture Waste Pesticide Don’t forget, you can read the Shopper on-line each week too!

Collection Program in cooperation with Freeborn County. www.co.freeborn.mn.us/ tion without registering

Mon.-Fri. 9-7 Sat. 9-4 Sun. 10-4

see us for your next...

Freebor n County

Whether you are working toward a bachelor’s degree or

Check these publications for articles, helpful hints and local businesses that want to help you get the job done!

507-889-3271

“LIKE” Us on Facebook www.hilltopgreenhouse.com

Spring is coming!

FALL 2017

in the

Steve Murley Faye Haugen Ag Lending Team

completing a technical program, we’ll help you get there.

3 Miles East of Geneva OR 2 Miles N. of Hollandale On Co. Rd. 28 | Watch for Signs

A Brides Guide to

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2017

Equipment Loans Real Estate Loans Operating Loans Lines of Credit

Bedding Plants • Geraniums • Moss Baskets • Container Gardening Vegetables • Herbs • Aquatic Plants • Unique Annuals It’s Worth th e Drive!

Soil • Mulch • Fertilizer • Wide Variety of Garden Iron!

Creating a Healthier Home

Wedding Planner

www.freeborncountyshopper.com Need Info on Community Events, Dining, Agricultural? Planning a Wedding?

Doing Some Lawn/Home Improvements?

IMPROVEMENT

Buy rom ct F r Di e ower Gr

Albert Lea MINNESOTA

Freeborn County & Surrou

nding

Freeborn Count y Fairgrounds

Albert Lea, MN

AreAS

HOME IMPROVEMENT

LOAN

Competitive Rates Local Service

www.securitybankmn.com y Vis it ~ Pla y ~ Sta & reloCAtion guide 2018-2019 Community Published by the Freeborn

County Shopper

437 Bridge Ave • Albert Lea 507- 373-1481

195 N. Broadway • Alden 507-874-3363

201 Main St. • Emmons 507-297-5461

1031 Bridge Ave. Albert Lea, MN Follow the signs – Enter at BridgeClip Ave.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 6

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 7

ELECTRONIC WASTE 2018

Use Renovations to Cre ate He althier Homes

and Save

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Home renovation projects are done for several different reasons, whether to update styles, repair damaged or broken items or to achieve more living space. More than ever before, homeowners are choosing improvement projects geared toward making their homes healthier.

FREEBORN COUNTY

Friday, May 18, 2018Fairgrounds Freeborn Co. 1031 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea Residential Recycling Household Hazardous Waste

Electronic Waste 2018 & Friday, Sept. 21, 2018 September 21, 2018 Friday, May 18, Freeborn CountyFriday, Fairgrounds

1031 Bridge Ave. Albert Lea, MN ollow the signs – Enter at Bridge Ave. ITEMS

DESCRIPTION

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Large

Console and Projection TV

Friday, May 18, 2018

2018

COST $20.00

10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Follow the Signs Enter at Bridge Ave.

different Y people. For example, to F R EEB O R Nthings COtoUNT an environmentalist, a healthy home may

“Electronic Waste” shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, any Friday, September 21,Computer 2018 $15.00 of the following collected electronics: video display devices (including Reg. TV & Monitor any FLAT or computer monitors and televisions, DVD Players, VCRs, computers CRT DESCRIPTION COST (both desktop and laptop), computer and electronic peripherals $20.00 SCAN Console and Projection TV (including but not limited to keyboards, computer mice, printers, or any $3.00 similar device external to a computer that provides input or output SmallMonitorKitchen, $15.00 TV & Computer any FLAT or microwaves/toasters/ CRT into or from a computer), fax machines, scanners, external disc drives/ blenders/vacuum cleaner/printers/ SCAN burners, computer speakers, gaming controls, and zip and flash drives, $3.00 Kitchen, microwaves/toasters/ speakers/CPU/Laptops and other electronic equipment containing a circuit board or power blenders/vacuum cleaner/printers/ City Day Time 1031 Bridge Ave. MN small Non-Freon household appliances, speakers/CPU/Laptops cord. Albert We wouldLea, also accept included Misc. connecting wire/mice/keyboards/etc like toasters, blenders, included connecting wire/mice/keyboards/etc Follow the signs – Enter at Bridgevacuums, Ave. and microwaves.

eeborn

Freeborn County Fairgrounds

Wed

12-3

“Electronic Waste” be limited to, any of the am 10:00 llandale Wedshall include, 12-3but not necessarily Date City Day Time

Waste” shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, any of the ollected electronics: video display devices (including computer nd televisions, DVD Players, VCRs, computers (both desktop and mputer and electronic peripherals (including but not limited to computer mice, printers, or any similar device external to a hat provides input or output into or from a computer), fax scanners, external disc drives/burners, computer speakers, trols, and zip and flash drives, and other electronic equipment a circuit board or power cord. We would also accept small household appliances, like toasters, blenders, vacuums, and .

NO EARLY DROP-OFFS

COST *It is illegal to drop off and leave items meant for collection without registering. $20.00

Clarks 9-12 Grove Wed Sat Misc.

Albert 12-3 Lea Sat Thu

12-3 8-18 9-12 enville county 9-8 Albert Lea Sat 9-12 “Electronic Waste” shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, any of the minnesota 9-13 Glenville Thurs ctions are held at the City of following collected12-3 electronics: video display devices (including computer

fer Station, 2506 West Richway MN. The Albert Lea

included freeborn connecting wire/mice/keyboards/etc

monitors and televisions, DVD Players, VCRs, computers (both desktop and laptop), computer and electronic peripherals (including but not limited to keyboards, computer mice, printers, or any similar device external to a computer that provides input or output into or from a computer), fax machines, scanners, external disc drives/burners, computer speakers, gaming controls, and zip and flash drives, and other electronic equipment containing a circuit board or power cord. We would also accept small Non-Freon household appliances, like toasters, blenders, vacuums, and microwaves.

Hazardous Waste Collections are held at the City Transfer Station, 2506 W. Richway Drive, Albert Lea, MN her cities are generally near the tation. Collections in other cities are generally near a city hall or fire station.

Inadequate housing conditions, such as poor ventilation, radon, pollution, and moisture issues, can contribute to many preventable diseases and injuries — especially respiratory problems, nervous system disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Indoor air quality is a top five environmental risk to public health. Studies have found that indoor air pollution levels were roughly two to five times greater than outdoor pollution levels.

2018

Household Friday, May 18, 2018 Hazardous Waste Friday, September 21, 2018

Writtenany survey of all participants. artland 12-3 6-7 Tue Emmons Thurs 12-3 $15.00 Reg. TV & Computer Monitor FLAT isorrequired Residents may attend any www.co.freeborn.mn.us/ CRT 12-3 bert Lea 9-12 6-19 Sat Hayward Tues collection in any city.

SCAN 6-26 Hartland Tues 12-3 in Lakes Thu 3-6 $3.00 Small Kitchen, microwaves/toasters/ 7-7 Albert 12-3 Lea Sat 9-12 ks Grove Wed blenders/vacuum cleaner/printers/ 7-12 Twin Lakes Thurs speakers/CPU/Laptops 3-6 bert Lea Sat 9-12

7-18 bert Lea

incorporate eco-friendly or green products.

Residential To Recycling those with young children or mobilityimpaired seniors, a healthy home may be one Household Hazardous Waste free from potential hazards. Others may view Electronica healthy Wastehome as one that alleviates allergies.

– 2:00 pm

following collected electronics: video display devices (including computer bert Lea Sat 9-12 monitors and televisions, DVD Players, VCRs, computers 4-25 Freeborn Wed (both desktop 12-3 and Aldenlaptop), computer Thu and electronic 3-6 peripherals (including but not limited to 5-9 Hollandale device external 12-3to a keyboards, computer mice, printers, or Wed any similar enevacomputer that Wed 3-6 provides input or output into or from a computer), 5-12 Albert Lea Sat 9-12 fax machines, scanners, external disc drives/burners, computer speakers, bert Lea Sat 9-12 www.co.freeborn.mn.us/ 5-17 Alden Thurs 3-6 DESCRIPTION ITEMS gaming controls, and zip and flash drives, and other electronic equipment mmons Thu 12-3 5-30 Geneva Wed 3-6small containing a circuit board or power cord.

We would also accept Large Console and Projection TV Non-Freon household appliances, ayward Tue 12-3 6-2 Albert Lea like toasters, Sat blenders, vacuums, 9-12 and microwaves.

Establishing a healthy home means different

Shopper

The

Freeborn County

People interested in making their homes healthier can embrace these renovations and lifestyle changes.

• Be aware of furniture materials. Toxic PBDEs, which are chemicals used as flame retardants on furniture fabrics produced prior to 2006, can send toxins into the air. Some manufacturers may still use these flame retardants in new forms, but with similar risks. Before purchasing furniture, ask if a product is treated, and select naturally fireresistant materials like wool and cotton.

The Sunlight Institute advises that there’s no harm in letting natural sunlight do its work, as bacteria within eight feet of low-intensity UV light can be killed in 10 minutes.

• Inspect and service wood-burning appliances. Regular inhalation of wood smoke limits immune activity and function, and anyone who burns wood indoors should be aware of these potential health risks.

Ensuring proper ventilation of smoke and routinely cleaning the chimney can help cut down on particulate matter.

• Turn to nontoxic cleaning products, pesticides and insecticides. Always opt for nontoxic, natural products when cleaning in and around the house.

• Lighten up. Lighting is often under appreciated but can have a dramatic impact on whether a home feels inviting, warm and/or uplifting. Experiment with different types of bulbs and lighting fixtures to turn drab and dreary environments into brighter places. Lighting may improve mood and productivity.

• Let the sun shine in. Modify window treatments to let more sunlight into the house. There is evidence that the sun, particularly UV light, is a potent bactericide.

• Declutter the home. A cluttered, hectic space can affect emotions and mental state, never mind attracting dust and making a home harder to clean. Spending time in spaces that do not elicit stressful feelings is healthier and can help residents to rest and recharge.

Making a home healthier can be on the list of this year’s renovation plans.

Read Our Magazines and Publications On-Line at

How to Transform a Room Weekend Home Projects

Improve Your Outdoor Living Experience Creating a Sale-Worthy Showplace Turn the page to find help with these ideas and more!

Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper

SPRING 2018

Dale Larson

Farming

VENUES ACCOMMODATIONS HONEYMOONS CAKES INSURANCE TRANSPORTATION

HAIR MAKE-UP NAILS TANNING FITNESS WEDDING RINGS

DECORATIONS RENTALS DRESSES/TUXES SAVE THE DATE CARD FLORAL WEDDING REGISTRY

A S p e c i a l S u p p l e m e n t To T H E F R E E B O R N C O U N T Y S H O P P E R F e b r u a r y 2 7 , 2 0 1 8

Heartland

134th Annual

Tuesday-Sund ay August 1-6, 2017 Minnesota residents pay in-state tuition rates so we keep your education affordable too!

An Agricultural, Farming & Rural Development Supplement Covering Freeborn County, Mower County & Surrounding Areas

EARLYFarmers DROP-OFFSmay bring their unwanted agriculture pesticides to the Household Hazardous Waste Collections for disposal. Funding for this program is rop off and leave itemsbymeant provided the Minnesota Department of Agriculture Waste Pesticide Don’t forget, you can read the Shopper on-line each week too!

Collection Program in cooperation with Freeborn County. www.co.freeborn.mn.us/ tion without registering

Mon.-Fri. 9-7 Sat. 9-4 Sun. 10-4

see us for your next...

Freebor n County

Whether you are working toward a bachelor’s degree or

Check these publications for articles, helpful hints and local businesses that want to help you get the job done!

507-889-3271

“LIKE” Us on Facebook www.hilltopgreenhouse.com

Spring is coming!

FALL 2017

in the

Steve Murley Faye Haugen Ag Lending Team

completing a technical program, we’ll help you get there.

3 Miles East of Geneva OR 2 Miles N. of Hollandale On Co. Rd. 28 | Watch for Signs

A Brides Guide to

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2017

Equipment Loans Real Estate Loans Operating Loans Lines of Credit

Bedding Plants • Geraniums • Moss Baskets • Container Gardening Vegetables • Herbs • Aquatic Plants • Unique Annuals It’s Worth th e Drive!

Soil • Mulch • Fertilizer • Wide Variety of Garden Iron!

Creating a Healthier Home

Wedding Planner

www.freeborncountyshopper.com Need Info on Community Events, Dining, Agricultural? Planning a Wedding?

Doing Some Lawn/Home Improvements?

IMPROVEMENT

Buy rom ct F r Di e ower Gr

Albert Lea MINNESOTA

Freeborn County & Surrou

nding

Freeborn Count y Fairgrounds

Albert Lea, MN

AreAS

HOME IMPROVEMENT

LOAN

Competitive Rates Local Service

www.securitybankmn.com y Vis it ~ Pla y ~ Sta & reloCAtion guide 2018-2019 Community Published by the Freeborn

County Shopper

437 Bridge Ave • Albert Lea 507- 373-1481

195 N. Broadway • Alden 507-874-3363

201 Main St. • Emmons 507-297-5461

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 5

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 8

Mulch Can Help Your Plants Thri ve As you begin to plan your spring landscaping, mulch can help your plants thrive so don’t forget to consider your options.

Benefits of mulch • Completes the look of your yard or flower bed • Acts as a natural weed control • Maintains moisture levels in your soil, protecting from over and under watering • Acts as a barrier to fluctuating temperatures that can damage your plants

•P lant-based mulch adds nutrients back into the soil as it decomposes Types of mulch • Leaves or grass clippings decompose quickly and enrich the soil • Bark is decorative, decomposes slowly and adds nutrients to the soil • Wood chips are decorative, decompose quickly and add nutrients to the soil • Stones or pebbles are decorative but not beneficial to the soil like plantbased mulch, but won't have to be replaced every year

Having success with mulch

clear mulch away from a four-inch area around each plant base to prevent too much water or not

• Protect the yard around your planting bed with edging • For new plants, shrubs or trees, install them in the soil before you add mulch and allow plenty of room to grow. Adding mulch retains water

BOBCAT EQUIPMENT RENTAL BOBCAT COMPACT EQUIPMENT

• When adding new mulch to a perennial planting bed, remove the old layer so you don't cause rot, starve from nutrients or kill them • Mulch should never be more than three inches thick in a planting bed • For mature plants, shrubs or trees,

4-HOUR

DAY

WEEKEND

WEEK

MONTH*

Medium frame skid-steer loaders – S590 S70

$110

$150

$225

$600

$1,800

Large frame skid-steer loaders – S750 S450

175

250

375

1,000

3,000

Walk behind track loaders – MT55

90

140

210

560

1,680

Medium frame track loaders – T450

150

200

300

800

2,400

Medium frame track loaders – T590

200

275

400

1,100

3,300

Large frame track loaders – T770

250

350

525

1,400

4,200

Excavator – E35i

150

200

300

800

2,400

Excavator – E55

275

350

525

1,400

4,200

ATTACHMENTS

There's never been a better time to get a WOW! kitchen

15C auger w/up to 12" bit

4-HOUR

DAY

WEEKEND

WEEK

MONTH*

$90

$130

$200

$520

$1,560

*** Bits larger than 12" add $1/per inch of bit (i.e. 18" bit would add $18 to the rental) Auger bits

$1/inch of bit size plus $10 – per day

Attachment plus kit

$25

Auger extension – 24"

30

80

240

Angle broom – 68" ($65/inch wear)

100

150

225

600

1,800

Breaker

100

150

225

600

1,800

150

250

350

1,000

3,000

Grader – 96"

200

300

800

2,400

Grader w/lasers $500 deposit

300

450

1,200

3,600

Landplane

75

115

300

900

Brushcat Rotary Cutter – 72” $250 blade deposit ™

Pallet fork Post pounder

150

Rock bucket – 74"

50

75

200

600

200

300

800

2,400

50

75

200

600

MT55

T590

ENGINE: 25 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 550 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 2610 lb.

Walk-behind track loader

ENGINE: 66 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 2100 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 7822 lb.

Track machine

T450

T770

ENGINE: 61 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 1400 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 6148 lb.

Track machine

ENGINE: 92 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 3475 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 10327 lb.

Track machine

S590

S750

•N ever rust or need to be painted

ENGINE: 66 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 2100 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 6593 lb.

Wheeled machine

ENGINE: 85 hp RATED OPERATING CAPACITY: 3200 lb.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 8730 lb.

Wheeled machine

Copper gutters add elegance and class to your home.

E35i

E55

ENGINE: 24.8 hp TAIL SWING: Zero DIG DEPTH: 10.2 ft.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 7468 lb.

Open cab, 13" or 20" bucket

ENGINE: 49.8 hp TAIL SWING: 13.4" Conventional DIG DEPTH: 14.6 ft.

OPERATING WEIGHT: 12313 lb.

Extended arm

RENTAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS Charge for daily rental is a 24-hour time period. This time starts at either pickup or upon delivery. A weekend rental is picked up Friday after 3 p.m. and dropped off Monday morning. Weekly rentals are based on a 7-day rental. Monthly rentals are based on a 28-day rental. Longer rental or lease options are available upon request.

Root grapple – 72"

100

150

225

600

1,800

Soil conditioner – 72" manual

100

150

225

600

1,800

Make home yourself at home

Stump grinder

100

150

300

800

2,400

Rental rates do not include taxes, physical damage insurance, miscellaneous charges, delivery and/or pickup.

Sweeper – 72" w/gutter brush ($65/inch wear)

125

175

260

700

2,100

Cleaning charges of $100 may be assessed at the end of a rental if the equipment is not returned clean.

with a loan from Accentra

Tiller – 76"

100

150

225

600

1,800

All rental machines are filled with fuel at the time of rental. A fuel surcharge will be assessed if the machine is not returned full.

Trencher – 313 4 ft. bar

100

150

225

600

1,80

Delivery and pickup are available.

Whether you’re looking to make improvements to your current home or you’ve decided to make the move to a new address, Accentra will work with you to find the best loan for your needs.

Learn more at accentracu.org/homeloans

Together, We Are Building A Better Community

20

accentracu.org • 800-533-0448 Federally Insured by NCUA

4-HOUR

B-B 14000# GVW Loss of chain $43.80 per chain

Quoted machine rates include one bucket.

A valid driver’s license and PRE-APPROVED credit card are required.

The customer is responsible for any and all damages occurring during the rental period.

Units will be inspected before and after rental.

TRAILER DAY

WEEKEND

WEEK

MONTH*

$80

$120

$240

$720

Loss of binder $34.80 per binder *1 month = 4 weeks

Gut ters Can Save on Water Damage

Complete terms and conditions will be provided on rental contract at the time of transaction.

The lessee shall carry and provide proof of liability insurance, naming your Sanco Equipment as a loss payee or additional insured. It must cover the full value of the equipment rented against all risk of physical damage and loss, including vandalism and theft.

All major credit cards accepted.

Authorized Bobcat Dealer

Sanco Equipment

2317 Consul St., Albert Lea, MN 56007 507-373-4490 • www.sancoequipment.com Bobcat®, the Bobcat logo and the colors of the Bobcat machine are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries. 17-B150

Houses with properly installed and maintained gutters will decrease the likelihood of wood rot to your home’s soffits, fascia, caulking or paint. Plus, moving water away from your home is healthy for your foundation.

Types of gutters Aluminum gutters are low maintenance and come in a variety of colors to accent your home •M ost common gutter product used today in the United States • Many color options

• I ncredibly durable making it a sound choice for parts of construction that are subject to excessive wear and tear or significant rainfall •A lthough a bit more expensive than other options, they are longer lasting and will not need to be repainted or resealed Steel gutters are strong, durable, longlasting and can withstand a variety of weather conditions •D urability make them more resistant to damage from hail, ice and snow •R esist damage from other sources such as ladders or heavy branches Vinyl gutters will not rust and are easy to cut to size for any home •W eigh very little making them easy to install • Do not rust nor require painting • Lowest cost gutters •K eep them cleaned out as leaves and debris can clog them

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 9

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 4

How to Conser ve Energy Throughout Summer Energy bills tend to be high in summertime, when many people crank up their air conditioners in an attempt to combat the heat.

For some households, higher energy bills might be stretching their budgets, while others might be looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprints.

Conserving energy can help homeowners save money and help the planet at the same time. And reducing energy consumption in the summer does not require men and women to sacrifice comfort

in the name of conservation. In fact, various strategies can help homeowners and apartment dwellers reduce their summertime energy consumption.

• Stop cooling an empty home. A cool home might be the ultimate necessity during summer heat waves, but there’s no reason to cool a residence when no one is home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, operating thermostats more efficiently can help homeowners trim their cooling costs by as much as 10

percent. One way to be more efficient with thermostats is to keep the house warmer than normal when no one is home.

Programmable thermostats can be set so air conditioning units turn on shortly before residents arrive home, ensuring the house is comfortable and no energy is wasted.

the lower cooling costs will be.

While it may be tempting to set thermostats to room temperature (68 F) on days when temperatures reach 90 F or above, that’s an enormous temperature gap that will result in a high energy bill.

Instead, the DOE recommends setting thermostats to 78 F whenever possible.

• Narrow the gap between indoor and outdoor temperatures.

The DOE notes that the smaller the difference between the temperature indoors and outside

• Open the windows at night. Daytime temperatures, particularly during the dog days of summer, may necessitate the use of air conditioners. But men

and women who live in climates where temperatures drop considerably at night can sleep with their windows open. This reduces energy consumption and saves money, and can be a great way to introduce fresh air into a home during a time of year when air can become stagnant.

• Do not set air conditioner thermostats at lower than normal temperatures when turning them on. The DOE notes that setting thermostats at lower than normal temperatures when turning air

WINDOWS & DOORS Means Personal & TO ELEVATE WINDOWS & DOORSEVERYDAY! TO ELEVATE YOUR EVERYDAY! YOUR Timely Service Locally Owned & Owner Operated

~ No BS with TS! (No Bad Service) ~

conditioners on will not cool homes any faster than setting them at typical temperatures.

Such a strategy will only lead to excessive energy consumption and higher energy bills.

• Install ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can improve cooling efficiency in a home. According to the DOE, ceiling fans allow men and women who use air conditioners to raise the thermostats on their AC units about 4 F without adversely affecting comfort levels.

Men and women who live in

temperate climates may find that ceiling fans are enough to keep rooms cool without the need for air conditioners.

Homeowners can combat high utility bills and excessive energy consumption during the summer with various eco- and budgetfriendly strategies.

Make yourself a home.

Come Home to Comfort...

WE’LL HELP YOU PROTECT IT.

Our smart home security systems keep your loved ones and home safe from intruders, carbon monoxide, fire, and other threats. Watch live video, arm/disarm your system, and control your lights and thermostat from easy-to-use web and mobile interfaces.

Thinking About Spring Projects?

UP TO

40%

CALL

507-553-3465

ENERGY SAVINGS!

Custom Window Designs

136 S. Broadway • Wells, MN • 507-553-3465 cwdesigns@bevcomm.net Wayne & Mary Bohm, Owners

We Have Over 100 Roll Off Dumpsters

888.264.6380 heartlandss.com

Siding • Windows • Roofing Gutters • Gutter Protection Doors • Decks • Drywall General Residential Carpentry

Albert Lea, MN

Over 20 Years Experience Call 507-318-0928 or 507-383-2719 MN License #BC688031

www.minnesotacustomremodelers.com

FLOOR TECH, INC. Your Source for All Your Flooring Needs!

In 12 yd, 20 yd, 30 yd and 40 yd Sizes to Fit Your Needs!

THOMPSON SANITATION 256-4370 OFFICE

108 W. MAIN PO BOX 154 • CLARKS GROVE, MN

CARPET | VINYL | LAMINATE | HARDWOOD Call Us Now for a Consultation at One of Our 2 Convenient Locations 971 Plaza Street W Albert Lea, MN 56007 507-377-4284

2201 E. Main St., Albert Lea 507-552-1637

322 E. Main St., Blooming Prairie 507-583-2276

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 10

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 3

Curb appe al pays off big time

The Green, Green, Grass of Home With the outdoor season upon us, there are a few simple ways to help your lawn stay lush and green and become the pride and joy of your neighborhood.

You can start by giving your lawn a good raking to create a de-thatching effect and “wake up” the lawn for the season.

Cutting Regular cutting of the lawn is important because it thickens the grass. Cutting it little and often is better than all in one go. Switch directions and patterns so the grass blades aren’t pressed in the same direction each time. In the middle of summer, you might want to keep the grass a little longer so it withstands periods of drought.

Fertilizing Cutting the grass removes nutrients that need to be replaced to achieve healthy growth. From the beginning of spring, you should fertilize the lawn every four or five weeks. Nitrogen, potassium and phosphorous are important ingredients for a healthy lawn. Application amounts and instructions are available on most fertilizer packaging.

Watering If you want a lawn that is lush and green all summer, watering is important. How often you need to water your lawn depends on temperature and humidity. When a lawn needs water, the grass will begin to take on a blue-gray

Ready to Mow? We’re here to help!

Mower & Gator Service Inspection Specials Snow to Mow Service Special

How attractive a home looks from the outside is often a good indication that a homeowner also takes pride in the interior. You can improve your home’s curb appeal with a few minor landscaping upgrades.

tint, and the older grass blades will begin to curl up and wilt. New lawns should be watered once a day so seeds can germinate and a solid root system can form. You can water your lawn by hand or select from a variety of sprinkler options or automated irrigation systems.

Clean and repair – Weed gardens, flower beds and edging, cut back overgrown plants and shrubs that block windows or spill over walkways, trim trees and power-wash paths, sidewalks and porches.

With persistence, you can win the battle against weeds using the right tools, herbicides or weed-n-feed products. Also, the grass roots need air in order to grow, therefore it is important to occasionally aerate your lawn to clear away dead roots and thatch to create more breathing space for the lower parts of the grass plus help stems grow better.

BUYERS OF ALL SCRAP METALS

All Concrete Yard 70,000 sq. ft. Metals Building

HIGHEST ID! PRICES PA

Focus on the front porch – Place potted evergreens or other plants at the base of front steps, hang flowering baskets and replace worn welcome mats.

Block what’s ugly – Hide unsightly air conditioning units, meter boxes, propane tanks,

Turn your JUNK into

Root River Hardwoods, Inc.

CASH!

Pick-up and Delivery Available!

reduce utility bills with the shade they provide.

Add Color – Edge sidewalks and tree bases and add brightly colored flowering annuals.

Add a structure – Fences, pergolas, arbors and landscape blocks can define and complement different areas and promote year-round curb appeal.

Rethink walkways – Carve a path to your front entry or seating area near your yard’s most attractive spots, using gravel, wood chips or landscape blocks.

Refine foundations – Design landscaping beds closest to the front of your home to look interesting year-round.

Combine various types of plants, rocks, mulch and shrubs with flowering annuals when perennials aren’t blooming.

Plant a tree – Trees can add much value to your home.

They can help prevent erosion, improve air quality and even

Suppliers of Quality Kiln Dried Hardwood Lumber (Red Oak, Walnut, Cherry, Etc.)

Also: Trim, Paneling, Flooring, Stair Parts, Doors & Plywood

Albert Lea • Glenville •

Come Visit Our Showroom MINNESOTA

Call for more details: Hollandale| 507-889-4221

IOWA

1560 400th St. | Kensett, IA 50448 | 641-845-2990

rusty sheds and more with plants or accessories.

Kensett •

LOCATED SOUTH OF KENSETT, IA

M BUCK’S

1300 Energy Drive • Preston, MN 55965 1.507.765.2284 • preston@rootriverhardwoods.com ____________________________________ 404 Airport Road • Albert Lea, MN 56007 1.507.377.8781 • albertlea@rootriverhardwoods.com

www.rootriverhardwoods.com

Have a seat – Create a spot that invites people to sit out front. Place an attractive bench

beneath a large tree or tuck a bistro table and chairs on a porch or amidst a densely flowered garden.

Light the way – Low-voltage outdoor lights can be used to define a walkway, spotlight a tree, highlight landscaping, showcase shrubs or accent an entry way.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 2

Make Spring Cle an-Up a Breeze

Eat Fresh Vege tables With a Raised Garden Did you know?

Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, with one medium tomato providing 40% of the recommended daily amount.

Benefits of a raised garden It’s an excellent way to grow plants, especially if you are new to gardening Raises your plants to a more comfortable height, making it

easier to plant, inspect and care for

Provides drainage, protecting your plants from overwatering

Allows you to better control nutrition of the soil by creating a barrier between the bed and natural soil

Fairly simple to build and moveable

You can plant earlier in the spring because the sun warms the bed faster than the ground By using cloth or netting, it’s easy to control pests, temperature and moisture

Building options Raised garden beds can be made from several different materials including lumber, concrete block, basins or bathtubs. Building with wood is the most common as it’s fast and easy. Concrete edgers are another material that is both easy to work with and inexpensive.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 11

Garden beds can be a variety of sizes. The width of the bed should be no more than three feet so you can reach your plants from both sides. The length can be as large as you like, but smaller boxes grant you greater access to your plants. The depth should be between ten inches and three feet. Beyond these guidelines, a garden bed can be a wide variety of shapes, sizes and materials, and besides making gardening easier, can add as much character to your yard as the plants themselves.

If you want your home to look fresh and clean, there are some basic cleaning chores that need to be done once or twice a year.

• Wipe down to remove dirt and prevent permanent stains

Check your appliances

• Keep the entrance to your home looking fresh and clean

Exterior

• Vacuum the coils on your refrigerator

Check for fence and exterior repairs

Clean patio furniture

Lawn maintenance or pest prevention may need to be performed

• Remove lint and debris from your dryer vent and exhaust

Clean grill Remove built-up debris in gutters Wash windows

Inspect and perform maintenance on your heating and cooling units

Check weather stripping & seals for repairs

• Replace filters

Clean exterior doors

We Can Help! New Construction or Home Improvements... We’ve Got You Covered!

• Inspect all hoses and cords

• Clean out accumulated spills in your oven and refrigerator With a little effort this spring, your home will be ready to entertain guests throughout the summer.

• Clean vents and exhaust areas, removing all debris

Interior Store winter clothes in totes and other organizers

RICH HONSTAD • Siding • Windows • Decking

• Roofing • Insulation • Construction

507-863-2100 398 5th Ave., Freeborn, MN 507-383-1113

Visit Our Showroom in Downtown Freeborn

Rightway Roofing & Remodeling

DO IT THE RIGHT WAY THE FIRST TIME Top Quality Work at Affordable Prices

COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • FARM Shingles • Hot Tar • Rubber• Metal & Flat Roofing

FREE ESTIMATES • BONDED • INSURED

507-373-0409 Cell 507-391-2362

71338 180th St., Albert Lea, MN License #20037743

Albert Lea’s Most Experienced & Reliable Full-Service Residential & Commercial

Home Equity Loans

Albert Lea, Minnesota

FIXED RATE

4.99%

APR

FIXED UP TO 80% LTV

5.49%

507-884-0200

APR

DESIGN | INSTALL | MAINTAIN

FIXED UP TO 100% LTV

Terms Up To 7 Years $5,000 Minimum Loan

Variable rate loans with terms up to 15 years also available

Now Serving all Residents of Freeborn & Mower Counties

430 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea, MN 507-377-1616 507-377-0276 www.unitedecu.com

New Construction, Residential, Commercial 24 HOUR SERVICE – FREE ESTIMATES

www.platinumplumbingmn.com

TREE CARE &

REMOVAL PROVIDER

507-369-8388 ROOTED IN INTEGRITY

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, May 1, 2018/Page 12

• Gardening Flowers • Fences • Financing • Siding • Windows • Do-It-Yourself Projects • Plumbing • Remodeling • Flooring • Kitchen & Baths

HOME & LAWN IMPROVEMENT TIME

• Lawn Care • Landscaping • Recycle Clean-Up ... and much more!

A Special Supplement To The Freeborn County Shopper May 1, 2018