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You know summer has started when high school sports come to a screeching halt. Unfortunately, the local baseball team that was having a Cinderella season lost in the playoffs and are now done.

There is although, one shining star in the onset of summer and dwindling of high school sports. Luke Angrimson, a recent graduate of Chisago Lakes Senior High, has advanced to the Boys State Golf Tournament at Bunker Hills in Anoka. Luke has put up some incredible numbers this season and has been the anchor for a very good golf team. Good luck to Luke and may the green break your way.

The Chisago Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is preparing for its second annual triathlon this July. Again this year, there will be several categories for racers of all ages and all skill levels. There is even a kids' triathlon. Judging by last year's numbers, this year should prove to be bigger and better. There is still time to register, just call the Chamber at 651-257-1177. The Chamber is also still looking for volunteers to help with all facets of the race.

There are only eight weeks until the Relay For Life of Chisago County. It is not too late to get involved. If you would like to form a relay team please contact Sue at 651-257-2033. If you are a business that would like to be a sponsor you can e-mail Jane at [email protected] The deadline to order t-shirts is June 11, so please call soon.

This week the annual Harmony in the Park concerts are set to begin. Held at Lions Park in Lindstrom, next to City Hall, concerts begin at 7 p.m. Thanks to some great sponsors, there will be a different concert every Wednesday until July 25. There is some seating available, but it is recommended that you bring your lawn chairs or blanket. If you are wondering about snacks, they will be available from the Trinity Lutheran Youth Group.

This week (June 6) features the St. Croix Valley Orchestra. Next week will feature the very popular band Deuce. I will remind you as often as I can because I think that this is something that the whole family can enjoy, especially at this price -- free. Come on out, you will have a great time.

Over the years I have attempted countless jobs around the house with some success. Last week I might have out kicked my coverage. After spending the last four years watching our lawn fill in admirably around our house, I have grown tired of one stubborn area that refuses to grow grass no matter how much seed or how nice I talk to it.

Then I had a revelation. Retaining wall. How hard could it be? I am painfully leaning just how hard it can be. Here we are in the beginning of the next dust bowl for the last seven months or so. Perfect time to build a wall and pour some cement right? I mean come on, it hasn't rained around here since Ingrid Bergman stopped by for a visit. So it began.

Trying to avoid a really sore back, I rented a bobcat and decided to dig out my future glorious wall. While I was at it, I thought heck, I might as well dig the pad for our future patio. Done. No problem.

Then it happened. The sky opened up and suddenly the weathermen were talking about flood warnings rather than record low lake levels. Well, it started to rain and I don't think it has stopped yet. Do not get me wrong, the rain is a welcome arrival and offers a nice break from watering plants and trees around my yard. But I guess I need to re-think my landscaping prowess. Hey, maybe I can opt for a swimming pool rather than a patio. Heck, I am three-fourths there already.

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