I would like to thank everyone who helped make the 27th annual Big Island Rendezvous & Festival such a success and run so smoothly. I especially would like to acknowledge the support of Albert Lea Area Schools and the Albert Lea Bus Co. for offering their assistance in case of dangerous weather conditions. Luckily, we didn’t have to use their services.

As the event continued, the Freeborn County sheriff and the Freeborn County emergency management coordinator also helped implement an evacuation plan that wasn’t needed as the weather improved.

All the volunteers who supported the logistics needed to produce an event this size deserve a round of thunderous applause and many accolades for doing all the jobs necessary. From parking cars, directing traffic, picking up litter, feeding the hungry, entertaining the masses and teaching the children about America, it takes literally hundreds of individuals to keep the festival “machine” running smoothly.

With thousands of visitors coming to Albert Lea for one day or two, the community “shined” by being supportive and being such a gracious host. Thanks to the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce, Albert Lea Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, motels, restaurants, Freeborn County Fair Board, Mayo Clinic Health System of Albert Lea and Austin, area businesses and organizations, and countless individuals for supporting and investing in one of Albert Lea’s best loved and successful community events.

This was our 27th year and our 24th Education Day program. We have taught more than 85,000 children and expect it to continue to grow. Everyone should be proud of what Albert Lea and all the volunteers have accomplished over the last quarter century.

 

Perry Vining

founder/coordinator

Big Island Rendezvous & Festival

Albert Lea