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If you have wondered what if anything is there to do around here for Halloween, rest assured, we have you covered.  If you look on page 18 in this Press, you will see an eye-catching map with various businesses that all offer something great this fall.  There are pumpkin patches, apple orchards, corn mazes, and haunted houses.  If your family is like mine, there is nothing we love more than fall.  We have a yearly tradition of going to local haunted houses with a large group of friends.  Now you can plan out your fall and Halloween stops and nights with this handy map.

Trinity Lutheran Church’s ‘Kids Outerwear Fair’ is now accepting coats hats, mittens, scarves, boots and blankets that are clean and in good condition. They are also collecting children’s socks, underwear and pajamas. Donations of money for new items will also be gladly accepted. Collection from October 1-21 Distribution Dates/Times: October 22 & 23 from 2-7pm and October 24 from 9am-Noon  13025 Newell Ave, Lindstrom  651-257-5129.

If you have been planning on donating to the homeless shelter here at the Press, I would ask that you please only donate seasonal items.  The last delivery I took to the shelter, they almost didn’t take summer clothing.  Not that I am ever turning away any donations, it would just make the shelters happier.  Thanks again for giving.

Congratulations to the Wildcat Football team and the Viking Football team.  They were both victors in Tuesday night's playoff games.  I was at the Wildcat game, and they played great. I am told that North Branch played very well, especially the defense.  What does this mean for the teams now?  It means the Wildcats will play at St. Francis Saturday at 2 p.m. and the Vikings will play Saturday at Hermantown at 2 p.m.  If you get a chance, come out and cheer your team on.

Speaking of teams, the Wildcat and Vikings soccer teams begin their first round of playoffs today (Thursday).  The Viking boys will travel to Chisago Lakes to play the Wildcat soccer team.  

The Wildcat girls will take on Grand Rapids before the boys at 5 p.m.  The Vikings will travel to Spectrum for their first game.  Good luck to the soccer teams!

One last sporting note, a huge congratulations goes out to the Viking girls’ volleyball team. They have clinched at least a share of the Mississippi 8 conference championship.  They have been and continue to be an incredible team.  Here is hoping for a trip to state!

There is a great opportunity for business owners coming.  On October 30, at Splitrocks Entertainment Center, there will be a technology summit.  It is a chance for businesses to learn how to positively impact their bottom line through technology. There will be speakers, a panel discussion, and a business and technology fair.  Breakfast will be served and  the event is free to Chisago County businesses and residents.  Please see page 8 in this edition for all the details.

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