If there is anyone who doubts the community spirit Albert Lea possesses, they need only look at the army of volunteers who show up for the Freeborn County Fair. Many volunteer for the fair itself. Others volunteer for their churches, service clubs or other organizations to raise funds.

Either way, it is part of the Freeborn County Fair that isn’t as highlighted as the man who shoots from a cannon over the Ferris wheel or the drivers daring enough to enter the demolition derby — but the volunteers don’t volunteer for recognition.

Like we said, they volunteer out of community spirit. That’s the best asset any place can have.

And it is one than Albert Lea has in abundance.