Progress Industry & Agriculture February 24, 2018
Albert Lea Tribune
Taking the
REINS Sunset Saddle Club member Rachael Petersen brushes off Brix, an American quarter horse at Broadway Farm. Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune
Growing Albert Lea-based saddle club sees more members By Sarah Kocher
sarah.kocher@albertleatribune.com
ver 100 years ago, Sunset Saddle Club vice president Jolene Babcock’s great aunt founded O what was then a couple of girls who wanted to get together and have fun, Babcock said. Now, board member Jodie Distad equates it to “a book club for horse people.”
Last year, it was a 125-member book club for horse people, including Babcock’s daughter, Sierra. “It’s a great group of people,” Babcock said. Sunset Saddle Club president Rob Lamp said the club has been growing over the last few years as more young members join. “The kids are enjoying themselves, riding with the other kids and stuff,” Lamp said. “We try See CLUB, Page 2
What’s inside?
Education, conservation
Growing an ag program
Giving Minnesota roots
Investing in roadways
Farmer looks to maintain soil. Page 4
Woman gets Alden students involved. Page 5
Brothers specialize in seeds. Page 6
City leaders look to reduce flooding. Page 7