In my thanks for the glorious weekend, now over two weeks ago, I want to begin with the mayor, Randy Erdman. Thank you.

I know the idea came from the theatre’s manager, Patrick Rasmussen and my friend Jim Pilgrim of Power 96 Rock, and I thank them also. However, I feel “world peace” could start right in Albert Lea — I’ve never seen a community work together so generously to name this theater in my honor. It is truly humbling. Usually that happens when someone dies and leaves a great deal of money! I have only my hometown love for you all, plus my “Happy Days” untarnished image! I want you to know that Minneapolis has told me I will be their first honoree star on the Hennepin Walk of Fame, in July, so you all came first!

I am in awe of all the efforts that went into this renaming starting with Pat Mulso, of the Freeborn County Museum, and her husband Arnie Mulso, of the American Legion, Morris Furniture, Western Rentals, Addie’s Floral, Tic Toe, Four Seasons Travel, Ben’s Floral, Albert Lea Medical Center, Albert Lea Chamber of Commerce, Albert Lea Convention and Visitors Bureau, Country Inn & Suites and Motor Inn Co. Thank you to all of you! I treasure the glass art piece that so beautifully captures Albert Lea.

When I was young, there was no performing theater, only the movies and radio — so little chance to ever see performers, let alone perform myself. Now, talent abounds among the young. They do so much, they see so much, they’re way ahead of where I started. This theater is the ideal size, it has everything you need for a first-class venue for local, as well as visiting, companies!

My heart is full of gratitude for this thrilling honor. It is beyond all my fantasies. How can I ever thank you enough?

Marion Ross

Woodland Hills, Calif.