Get mall settled

Thumbs Up: City Manager Chris Dalton had some interesting news for the city Economic Development Authority, and indeed for citizens of New Ulm when he announced Tuesday that the city is close to closing on a deal for the Marktplatz Mall.

If the city can get that giant white elephant in the middle of downtown New Ulm combined under one title, and turn it over to someone who knows what to do with it, it may become something of value.

For too long, the mall struggled, especially when it was split between two owners who were more interested in warring with each other that making it profitable.

It will never be the kind of downtown retail center that the original planners envisioned, but with the right developer, and we think Eric Bode of EBMD, LLC has proven himself capable, it could become something useful.

Schmitz award

Thumbs Up: Congratulations to New Ulm Park and Rec Director Tom Schmitz. It was announced thi week that he will receive the Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award from the Minnesota Minnesota Recreation and Parks Association. The award is presented each year to one individual and is the highest professional award given out by the association.

Schmitz has been closely involved with bringing about all the new Park and Recreation improvements funded by the city’s half-percent sales tax. There have been many committees and commissioners involved in the process, but Schmitz has been the man in the middle making it all work.

He is certainly deserving of this recognition.

Legendary doctor

Thumbs Up: Congratulations as well to Dr. Joan Krikava, who was honored on Friday with the New Ulm Medical Center’s Legend award, presented annually to medical professionals who have given outstanding service to the New Ulm Medical Center and the patients it serves.

Dr. Krikava has served in a variety of roles as a physician and as a leader in the NUMC over the last 30 years. She retired just recently, after sticking around an extra year during the COVID-19 pandemic. Again, this is an honor that is richly deserved.