Ian Dudley is at it again, Minnesota Vikings have work to do? So do I

The city of Lindstrom would like to see you next weekend. They will be dedicating the completion of the Highway 8 project through town. Beginning at 11 a.m., here will be a ribbon cutting in Memorial PArk along with a Swedish Luncheon October 5. When the luncheon is complete, stick around for the unveiling of the new statue that will be placed on the west end of the turn around in Lindstrom. The trio of statues is yet another masterpiece by our favorite local sculptor Ian Dudley, and promises to be awesome.

I had the chance to work at the Brush with Kindness site last week. It is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity that focuses on local projects to help those less fortunate. When I arrived, I was immediately impressed. There had to be 15 people already sweating from hard work. We (our editor and sports editor also volunteered) were thrown into the fire and began our jobs. It was so fun (I know, how can hard work be fun?) to use your hands to help a neighbor. Well as it turns out, we were in the middle of siding the home, when the only thunderstorm in six months decides to roll in. Sadly our day was ended. But the folks continued the work the next day and also on the weekend. The home looks amazing, and I know the homeowners are very appreciative. We will have a follow up from organizer Allan Rasmussen hopefully in the next Press. Thank you to all who donated their time, skills, and money to these great projects.

Remember next week is Shafer Days, so please mark your calendars. Shafer Days is always a fun event that (gulp) usually ends our summer celebration season. On Frdiay you are invited to the south end of town where Pleasant Valley Orchard will be having hayrides,carmel apples, pumpkins, and of course, some of the best apples you will ever taste. After that, drive a very short distance to the Shafer Corn Maze and try to manuever your way to the end. The Shafer Fire Departmnt will host their annual Family Bingo at the fire hall at 6 p.m. and Uncle chunk will headling at Big Game Bar and Grill. I will write more about Shafer Days next week, but there is a schedule on page 10 this week.

If you go to the Chisago Lakes School District website, you will find new information on the referendum. Under referendum info, you will find a chance to register and how to cast an absentee ballot.

There is a really neat event taking place on October 8. The Refuge Network is hosting their annual "Still Making Magic" Gala. The Refuge is a local organization that provides services for people who are or have been involved in an abusive relationship. They actively work to end domestic violence. The Gala is being held at Spectacular Events in Isanti. It will feature Las Vegas magician Tim Gabrielson. The gala includes a wonderful dinner and a silent auction. There is a 1/3 carat diamond that will be given to one of the guests. The event promises to be a great time and the money raised goes to a wonderful organization.

A huge thank you to the Minnesota Vikings (from my wife). Because of your ineptitude and inability to throw a pass into the endzone, I now have a honeydo list as long as my arm. Instead of watching the purple play every Sunday afternoon, I will be working until I am purple in the face. At least it's nice out and I can enjoy the weather.