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What a spectacular weekend we had for Karl Oskar Days. Other than a little warm during the parade, it was absolutely beautiful.

Every year I tell you how valuable the Karl Oskar Days Committee is, and 2006 is a perfect example. You would not believe what a hard-working, dedicated, tireless bunch of people worked in harmony to make this year’s celebration one of the best ever. This year’s chairperson Paul Dennison, his most capable assistant Connie Schmidt and all of the volunteers did a fantastic job. These people have worked for hundreds of hours, often at the expense of their jobs and families to make Karl Oskar Days one of the best celebrations in Minnesota. I thought that Friday night’s part of the celebration was really great. You got to enjoy the tug-o-war, the kiddie parade, and the rock stock all in the same location.

To all of the volunteers who donated their time or money to make this year Karl Oskar Days a reality, I say thank you. Thank you for your commitment and all of your hard work. If you happen to bump into any of the volunteers you may have seen last weekend, please let them know that there are so many people that appreciate all of their efforts.

Remember, that if you have the urge to get involved in your community, and you have some ideas on how to enhance future celebrations be it Karl Oskar Days, Ki Chi Saga Days or whatever, please don’t be shy, step up and volunteer today. Our community is growing so fast, it is important to bring new faces into the mix. Besides, you can never have too many volunteers, right?

If Karl Oskar Days has you left wanting more excitement, you are in luck. This weekend is Taylors Falls and St. Croix Falls Wannigan Days. There will be a kiddie parade, a big-time parade, a street dance, a talent show, fireworks and many other things you and your family can partake in. Look for a complete list of activities in this edition of the County Press.

And if that isn’t enough, hop in your car and venture up to Rush City for the 134th annual Chisago County Fair. The fair is a wonderful throwback to the way fairs are supposed to be. It is a wonderful place to meet old friends, take in some exhibits, eat some really great food and see some animals. The fair is a nostalgic visit that won’t break your bank, and it is all here in Chisago County.

Last week my family and I set out on a Minnesota adventure. We loaded into our car and headed up north. We had our sights set on Lake Vermillion and that’s where we ended. For those of you who think that a vacation means getting on a plane to leave the state, you don’t know what you are missing. We spent a week driving around north-east Minnesota packed into our vehicle like sardines. Not only did I get to see some of the most beautiful country in the world (if you get the chance take a hike up around the Temperance River, please try it), but I got to spend a week with just my family. No cell phones, no e-mail, nothing. Just plain enjoying each other’s company. I must be getting on in life, because now it doesn’t take an amusement park to give me pleasure on a vacation, no, just some good old-fashioned quality time with my family is all I need.

Thanks to the person who hit my vehicle during the Karl Oskar Parade. When we were leaving, we noticed I had a smashed tail light and scratches on my bumper and quarter panel. Judging by the amount of debris around my bumper, the other vehicle looked to be damaged more than mine. The best part of the whole thing? No note, no nothing. Real mature. If anybody saw a white vehicle strike a grey SUV on Pleasant Ave. around parade time, please give me a call at 651-257-5115. Thank you.

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