Nominations sought for Human Rights Award

NEW ULM — Each year the New Ulm Human Rights Commission recognizes an individual, group or organization with the New Ulm Human Rights Award. The group is seeking nominations from the public for this award.

The Commission would like to hear about individuals, organizations or groups who have demonstrated an active role in preserving, promoting, upholding, expanding or defending human rights. To nominate a person or group for this award, write or contact Lisa Grathwohl at New Ulm City Hall, Human Rights Commission, 100 N. Broadway, New Ulm, MN 56073, 507-359-8236; or email lisa.grathwohl@ci.new-ulm.mn.

The New Ulm Human Rights Commission, chartered in 1977, is charged with informing, advising and educating the community on human rights as well as promoting and advancing the rights for all “protected classes.” In the past, the NUHRC has sponsored many programs on human rights subjects like Financial Literacy, Anti-Bullying, Racism, and Human Trafficking.

SE City Council considers 2018 final budget

SLEEPY EYE – The Sleepy Eye City Council will consider passage of the 2018 final budget and a Braun and Borth Sanitation rate adjustment and name change Dec. 12.

Other agenda items include approval of fire department officers, a Truth in Taxation hearing, resolution for relief on DMV software changes and MNLARS challenges, and consideration of certification of unpaid utilities, garbage and mowing to Brown County for collection.

A write-off list of Public Utility Commission balances and annual (cash) transfers from general to EDA and street to debt service to balance cash, from sewer to general $245,000; and from hospital to event center.

The city council meeting begins in the council chambers at 7 p.m., Dec. 12.

Sibley East pool manager receives state award

ARLINGTON — Sibley East High School pool manager Rene Moriarty was named Aquatics Teacher of the Year by the Minnesota Society of Health and Physical Education.

An Arlington native, she began teaching elementary and high school physical education at Sibley East 19 years ago. Her sophomore students participated in a triathlon that included swimming, bicycling and running. Her students also studied units on synchronized swimming and scuba diving.

Moriarty credited many people including pool and office staff and teachers for helping promote pool activities including after-school programs.

Bedtime Storytime with ECFE

NEW ULM — Bedtime Storytime with ECFE at the Public Library will be this Wednesday, Dec. 13 from 6 to 7 P.M. There will be activities, treats, stories and a free book for all children who attend.

Picture book illustrator Monica Zrust will be a special guest, reading from her recent book, “Can Candy Save Christmas?” She will demonstrate how she draws some of her characters. Copies of her book will be available for sale. Zrust graduated from the Graphic Communications Program at South Central College in North Mankato. After retiring from a longtime career with the General Electric Company, Zrust is now able to focus on her artistic creativity, passion for children’s literature and her love for family.

Vietnam War documentary

screening, discussion at library

NEW ULM — Brown County Veterans Services and New Ulm Public Library are co-sponsoring a 10-part screening of The Vietnam War, a documentary by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick. Discussions will be moderated by Greg Peterson of Brown County Veterans Services. The documentary will be screened in succession on the following dates: December 13, 14, 27, and 28; January 10, 11, 24, and 25; and February 7 and 8. All screenings start at 6 p.m. and will last between one and two hours. Patrons may attend sessions as they are able; it is not necessary to attend all sessions to participate. Call 507-359-8334 for more information.

Weber to play Noon Tunes at library

NEW ULM — Lee Weber will be the featured musician at Noon Tunes on Wednesday, December 20 at 12 p.m. at New Ulm Public Library. Weber will play a variety of music, including some holiday songs, using his unique American finger style guitar playing. Call 507-359-8334 for more information.