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As I wrote last week, it looks like the Wildcats will indeed open their new stadium tomorrow. As with the bridge in Minneapolis, the new stadium also was finished ahead of schedule. It just so happens that tomorrow's game is the Wildcat's homecoming against the Irondale Knights. This game is a great opportunity for the community to see this beautiful complex, so plan on getting there early because there will be a lot going on. There will be a brat feed, face painting, crazy hair, a blow up hopper for young children, music, cheerleaders, and various games for everyone to play. Thanks to Chisago Lakes Gridiron Club, The Drive Inn, Brink's Market, and Promotional Management Center for sponsoring the pre-game activities.

If you are looking for something to do this weekend, why not take a short ride to Shafer for Shafer Days. Shafer Days gets started today and runs until Sunday afternoon. On Friday, things really get hopping, starting off with a treasure hunt at 4. Scour the City of Shafer to find the missing clog and if you are the lucky winner, you will be $100 richer if you have a 2008 Shafer Days button. Friday also features bingo, a carnival, and an outdoor concert.

Saturday, along with the treasure hunt, there will a history display in the Shafer City Hall. You can take in a classic car show, check out the arts and crafts show, or maybe try your luck on a poker run on the Swedish Immigrant Trail.

The good folks of Shafer have really put together a jam packed weekend for you and your family.

There are just too many happenings to list so please look in this edition of the Press for times and schedules of Shafer Days events. I have been to a lot of Shafer Days and I can tell you that they have never had this much stuff to do. Come on out and see all the hard work Shafer has done for you.

If you look at our entertainment page, you will see that besides Shafer Days, there are tons of things going on this weekend. There is an Oktoberfest, a pancake breakfast, and a chili fest. The fall is a wonderful time of the year to just hang around the area for some good times with good friends.

As I am writing this, the newscasts are reporting that the 700 billion bailout was not passed by congress. I for one am relieved. In my opinion, what are we teaching large corporations out there? Go ahead and gamble with profits, take chances with other people's finances because if you fail, we (the government) will bail you out. Yes, the economy is more than likely going to take another turn for the worse, but what would a bail out really do? Where do we draw the line between who gets government "bail outs" and who does not? Here is a thought, why don't we take the 700 billion and allot a set amount to be payed against every person who carries a mortgage. The amount could only be used to pay off mortgages. In turn, you would have people spending their money in our economy thus hopefully bringing a surge to an otherwise sour economy. Ridiculous I know, but at least we would be bailing out Joe American rather than some of these C.E.O.'s who have been receiving absurd salaries for such a long time.

With cool temps now upon us, it signals one of my favorite times of the year. Yes, the changing leaves are beautiful, but I am talking about Honey Crisp apple season. Is there a better tasting fruit than the Honey Crisp? If there is, I have yet to find one.

There are a couple of apple farms in our area that sell wonderful Honey Crisp apples. Pleasant Valley Orchards is a community favorite that has been selling apples to the Chisago Lakes area for years, has just announced that their Honey Crisp season has begun. Also another great place to pick up some Honey Crisp apples is Sunrise River Farm in Wyoming. Whichever orchard you choose, you will be very happy. I suggest getting there soon before I do.

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