Photo front row:
Margie Eckberg-Norseland 150; Judy Hanson-Norseland 150; Evie Swenson-Norseland 150; Duane Gran-NPA
Back row:
Garfield Eckberg-NPA; Willis Anthony-NPA; Juana Arias-Chair, NPA; Dean Pettis-NPA; Kevin Johnson-NPA; Myrna Schoeb-Norseland 150
Juana Ellerbroek of Norseland was elected president of the first board of directors of the Norseland Preservation Association (NPA). The organizational meeting of the new non-profit, whose mission is to preserve and promote community and its history, was held March 22. Approximately 35 people attended this meeting. Others elected were: vice president, Garfield Eckberg; secretary, Patty Kelly; treasurer, Dean Pettis; and directors Duane Gran, Kevin Johnson, and Willis Anthony. Bylaws for the organization were adopted.
David Grabitzke, Head of Outreach Services for the Minnesota Historical Society told the group that there are 445 city/county/area historical associations in the state of Minnesota. "None of these groups is dedicated to preserving rural landscapes," he said. Grabitzke also commented that "rural landscapes are fast disappearing and there is a great need for their preservation." Grabitzke said that the local organization could qualify for funding through private grants and also through the certified local government grant; state capital grants and aid, (bonding money); and the state grants in aid program (allocations from the state's general fund). Grabitzke also said, "the organizations that do the best are ones that have a good local buy-in."
The new board of directors will discuss sponsoring a summer event in Norseland. end
