This week in St. Cloud

Belinda spent part of this week in St. Cloud, attending the Minnesota Annual Conference with our friend, Rev. Judy Clark.
 

A big night in Albert Lea

Charles took part in the first session of the Albert Lea Human Rights Commission today at City Hall. He was selected to be the chair of the of the group which will meet each month.

Time in a small Missouri city

Before Charles leaves Chillicothe tomorrow, he spent time this afternoon, wandering around the city that his sister, Jackie, loved so much. The many murals along Washington St. capture the spirit of this city.

Tending to memories in Chillicothe

Charles is in Chillicothe, Missouri this week along with his nephew, Jeremiah, tending to the affairs of Charles' sister, Jackie, who died unexpectedly last Monday at her home.

Jacqueline Evett Alkula                                   August 18, 1953 — June 2, 2025

Jacqueline “Jackie” Evett Alkula, age 71, a resident of Chillicothe, Missouri, passed away Monday, June 2, 2025, at her residence.

Jackie was born on August 18, 1953, to Venlear James and Margaret Jean (Plants) Alkula, in Painesville, Ohio. She was enlisted in the United States Army for sixteen years. Jackie also worked as a retail associate at Walmart for many years. She enjoyed photography and working with film in a dark room. She liked to cross stitch and spend time geocaching.

Survivors include three sons, Joshua Alkula of Shawno, Wisconsin, Jeremiah Alkula of Lebanon, Indiana, and Jason Alkula (Diane) of Flint, Michigan; one daughter, Elizabeth Alkula of Largo, Florida; her mother, Margaret Alkula of Newnan, Georgia; three brothers, Joe Alkula (Jody) of Holiday, Florida, Charles Alkula (Belinda) of Albert Lea, Minnesota, and Dale Alkula of Columbus, Ohio; one sister, Sandy Boda (Steve) of Tyrone, Georgia. She was preceded in death by her father.

A cremation was held. Inurnment will be held at Bay Pines National Cemetery in St. Petersburg, Florida at a later date. 

Online condolences may be made at www.lindleyfuneralhomes.com.

New painting started

Charles began work on a new painting that may be included in the Albert Lea Art Center's display for Pride Day in the city in two week's time!

Another project in the books

The work begins

Ta da!

Charles tackled another outdoor project this weekend, painting the backyard deck. He had already power washed the deck and then yesterday and this morning, the deck was painted a light grey. We really have enjoyed sitting under the large backyard tree and now, we have an attractive place to do it!
 

Big news!

We met with the leadership of Glenville UMC tonight to discuss Charles' future role with this congregation effective July 1. Officially, this is not an appointment as Charles is already appointed by his bishop to an extension ministry at Thorne Crest. Instead, he will be assisting as a "supply preacher" and offering pastoral care as a volunteer.