The Freeborn County Republican Party convention was held Feb. 12 at the American Legion Club in Albert Lea.

Ken Petersen chaired the annual gathering. The main business of the day was to elect the leadership team, which will lead the county party for the next two years.

The team that was unanimously elected was Alan B. Arends, Matt Benda, Sybil Broskoff, Katie Jacobsen, Pennie Ladlie and Clayton Petersen.

Guest speakers were Jim Engstrand of Pine Island, recent candidate for U.S. Congress, and state Rep. Rich Murray of Albert Lea.

Petersen announced the annual Republican banquet, being held this coming Saturday at America’s Best Value Inn in Albert Lea.

The social hour starts at 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 6 p.m. Cost is $23 per person. State Sen. Mike Parry and state Rep. Murray will be the guest speakers. There will also be musical entertainment. Petersen encouraged delegates and all interested people to call for reservations: Marlene Behle, 507-373-2742, or Annie Schleck, 507-373-2940.

Look for Progress 2011: Everyday Heroes in the Sunday, Feb. 27 edition of the Albert Lea Tribune. Read about dozens of inspirational stories about interesting community members, leaders in faith, rising sports stars, businesses that rock, your amazing neighbors, education standouts, and your all-around heroes in the Sunday Tribune.