Fundraiser and other events planned for this weekend
Out of a hope to raise money for District 241 schools, the Northbridge Mall on Saturday is hosting the first-ever “A Ball at the Mall: A Night for Academics,” a black-tie event with dining, dancing and cocktails.
It is one of several events planned for the weekend.
The ball will begin at 7 p.m. and will include music provided by Uptown Sound.
There will also be a live and silent auction.
Cost is $25 for one ticket or $45 for a double ticket.
Tickets are available at Doyle’s Hallmark and the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce.
The school district has been hit hard with budget cuts, and any money raised will go toward the academic departments within the schools.
The following is a roundup of other events happening this weekend.

Friday
• The “Art in Fashion” shows at the Albert Lea Art Center will be on display from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The shows feature the work of Stacia Lang and Julia Olson.
•The Freeborn County Historical Society will have a Swiss steak fundraiser at the American Legion Leo Carey Post 56, 142 N. Broadway Ave., from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for children under 10. Tickets are available at the Freeborn County Historical Museum at 1031 Bridge Ave.
•A Pelican Breeze II pizza cruise will go from 6 to 7:30 p.m., departing from the Pelican Breeze boat landing. Call 383-2630 by 4 p.m. Friday for reservations. Pizza cruises are $20 for adults and $5 for children ages 5 and under.
Saturday
• The Albert Lea Farmers Market will be in the North Broadway Avenue parking lot from 9 a.m. to noon.
• The Alden-Conger Football Golf Tournament will begin at 9 a.m. at Oakview Golf Course. Cost is $50 per person. Cart not included. There will be food and prizes available. All proceeds go toward the youth, middle school and varsity football program. Call 507-863-2288 to reserve a space.
• The “Art in Fashion” shows at the Albert Lea Art Center will be on display from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The shows feature the work of Stacia Lang and Julia Olson.
• A Pelican Breeze II public cruise will begin at 4 p.m. at the Pelican Breeze boat landing. Cost is $15 per person, and $5 for ages 5 and under.
• Albert Lea High School’s class of 1985 will have its 25th-year reunion at 6 p.m. at Green Lea Golf Course. Cost is $20 per person. There will be music, food and fun. Checks can be sent to Class of 1985, 225 S. Broadway Ave., Albert Lea, MN 56007. For questions, call 507-438-2622.