town star, Marion Ross, celebrated her 80th birthday on Saturday, Oct. 25, in Overland Park, Kan. Thirty-five friends and fans traveled to Kansas for the weekend to honor her with a private reception and attend the play, “The Last Romance,” which was written especially for Marion and Paul Michael by Joe DiPietro. Marion’s heart- warming smile, positive attitude toward life and love for what she does were apparent as she was stunning in her role, and with the love of her life as her acting partner, the evening was a delight.

The New Theatre Restaurant seats over 600 and there are eight performances per week. Marion and Paul have had a busy fall season bringing pleasure to visitors from near and far that have joined them for an entertaining performance with our hometown star.

Today is their last performance of “The Last Romance” at the New Theatre Restaurant and then they will have a short break before they are off on their next adventure. Marion has several projects in the works; she will never cease to amaze us with her determination, energy and love for life.

It was a great weekend and we certainly are proud of Marion and all that she has accomplished and look forward to the accomplishments yet to come!

The museum fence has been replaced on the north and south sides of the village and we have put in an additional gate. We have also done some extensive tree trimming and removed one additional tree to avoid further roof damage. We are working diligently to protect the buildings that we are preserving for future generations.

Our next project is to decorate the village and museum for the Christmas holidays. Watch for details on our annual “Christmas Gathering” soon.

The museum will be hosting a four-hour refresher AARP Defensive Driving class on Tuesday, Nov. 18, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. The cost is $15 and you must pre-register for the class. You will need your drivers’ license number at the time of registration. Call the museum for details at 373-8003.

The museum will be closed Thanksgiving Day and Friday, the day after, so our staff may spend the holiday with their families.

Pat Mulso is the executive director of the Freeborn County Historical Museum in Albert Lea.