‘It has been a great journey’: Rita Albrecht recaps her time as Bemidji mayor Thank you, Bemidji, for the honor of being your mayor. Although it is not always easy being an elected official, I count it among the most rewarding experiences of my career. Written By: Rita Albrecht, Special to the Pioneer | 7:10 am, Jan. 16, 2021 × Rita Albrecht Thank you, Bemidji, for the honor of being your mayor. Although it is not always easy being an elected official, I count it among the most rewarding experiences of my career. In the last decade, as a city councilor and then mayor, I have worked with talented city staffers, councilors, residents, business owners and professionals who have helped move our city forward.