For 34 years, the Freeborn County Fast-Pitch Softball Hall of Fame has held two of the most special events in the area throughout the year with an annual banquet and old-timers game.

Sunday, July 01, 2001

For 34 years, the Freeborn County Fast-Pitch Softball Hall of Fame has held two of the most special events in the area throughout the year with an annual banquet and old-timers game.

Now, it figures to be twice as memorable. The two are being combined for the first time.

The 35th Annual Hall of Fame Banquet is set for Friday, July 27 at 6 p.m. at the Union Center in Albert Lea. The old-timers game will be played Saturday, July 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Albert Lea’s J. M. Snyder Fields.

In the past, the banquet was held in late spring and the old-timers game in July. They were combined with the hope of increasing participation and attendance at both, and since many people travel long distances for one of the two; now they won’t have to choose which.

The banquet – billed as an evening for fond memories and renewing old friendships – begins with a social hour from 6 to 7 p.m., with dinner and program to follow. Charge for the meal is $15, including tax and gratuity, and a cash bar will be available.

Organizers Dave Gilbertson and Cliff Petersen emphasized the banquet is not only for former players.