Thank you, Albert Lea!

The leaders of Vestlandslag (a Norwegian heritage organization) and Vosselag (now 100 years old!) made an excellent decision when they decided to hold their annual meeting and Vosselag Centennial Celebration in The Land Between the Lakes. It happened June 18-20, and Albert Lea, the city leaders and some special citizens helped to make it very successful.

Mayor Mike Murtaugh, City Manager Victoria Simonsen and Councilor Larry Anderson were gracious helpers and greeters, especially for the 34 Norwegian guests from Voss, Norway. Susie Petersen at the Albert Lea Convention and Visitors Bureau chipped in with goodies introducing the 200 attendees to the city.

Freeborn County Historical Museum Director Pat Mulso arranged well-received tours for both the Norway and American guests who came from several states and Canada. The museum is a special part of the city and area.

Albert Lea’s resident Norwegian expert Roger Lonning provided the guests from Voss with a tour of the city, emphasizing the Freeborn County Courthouse where the Vossings held their first meeting June 24, 1909.

Local musician and another Norwegian treasure Norrine Jensen is wonderfully energetic and helpful. Her piano work was an inspiration. We had one of the most enthusiastic and fun singing sessions ever. The Norwegians requested some old American favorites too, so “Tom Dooley,” “Oh, Susanna,” “Home on the Range” and “Clementine” made an appearance on the list of songs to sing.

Tina Stripe and Carl Cochlin of Americas Best Value Inn (formerly Ramada) are amazing. And if there are harder working, more friendly and competent hotel people than Tina and Carl, I’ve never met them!

Was it a good choice to come to Albert Lea? Sure was! And I’ll be happy to recommend to other lags that The Land Between the Lakes is a good place to consider when choosing a convention city.

Richard Flisrand

president

Vosselag

Austin