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If you have attended the Celebration of the Lakes in the past, you know what a terrific time it can be for the whole family. Yes, the weather has been a little uncooperative in the recent past, and hopefully we will hit a streak of strong winters.

Most people that attend any of the local celebrations are unaware of how much time and sweat goes into making the events such huge successes. This is where you come into it. After meeting with the current Celebration of the Lakes Committee, it has been brought to my attention that the celebration is in dire need of volunteers. For whatever reason, the number of volunteers are down this year. I am one of the yearly volunteers, and I have to tell you, there is not a better bunch of people working together for a great event. If you would like to be part of this dynamic team, they would love to have you. They are looking for volunteers for all kinds of tasks from trivial to large. I would urge you call the Chamber at 651-257-1177. I guarantee you will have a blast, and you will be appreciated.

The past couple of weeks, I had the opportunity to listen to Mike McLoughlin, Heide Miller and Bob Meyers give their presentation of the school referendum that the public will be voting on November 6. I am going to be honest here, any time I hear the word referendum, I usually run as fast as I can in the other direction. But, having children in the Chisago Lakes School District, I felt it was my duty to hear them out.

To put it plain and simple, I was very impressed. The money in the referendum (no matter what you have heard on the street) will not raise our taxes. In fact, with the recent completion of Minnesota Air Quality improvements, your taxes will decrease with the approval of the referendum. Even though the question on the ballot will read that you are voting for a property tax increase, it does not take into account the air quality taxes coming off.

I have seen the plans for the new roofs, new ball fields, new class rooms in Taylors Falls, and other maintenance fees. This truly seems like a great opportunity for the public to make our school system one of the best. If you have any questions about the referendum, please call Superintendent McLoughlin at 213-2096 or Heide Miller at 213-2010. They will also be glad to schedule a presentation on the referendum.

I know I have written quite a bit about the Kids Outerwear Fair that is currently taking place at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lindstrom. They are accepting good condition coats, hats, mittens, scarves, snow pants and blankets. Donations were accepted October 1-15. These good folks wanted me to let you know that they are now looking for needy children to give these donations to.

Please, if you are having a little trouble making ends meet this year, do not be ashamed of taking a good will gesture. Hard times can fall upon each and every one of us at any given time. These great people just want your child to be happy and warm this winter.

The distribution of these winter items will be Friday, October 26, from 3-7 p.m. and Saturday, October 27, from 9 a.m. until noon. If you have any questions, you can call Chris at 257-5681 or Bonnie at 257-6822.

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