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We finally moved our son back to Mankato for another year of college, or so we hope.  As of right now the plan at MSU is to have about half the classes hybrid where half the students would come in for labs one week then the other half the following week. The classes that are not lab oriented sound like they will be online only.  

What a bummer it would be for any age student to be in school right now.  Maybe it's because I know with my attention span, I wouldn't stand a chance doing online learning.  When this all broke last year we semi-joked that it wlll be something our kids can tell their kids and grandkids someday, now the joke just isn't funny.  I feel for the people that have younger kids and have to figure out a modified daycare all while trying to hold down a job themselves.  I an so ready for this to be over with...

Many of you have asked about a potential new development going in on Olinda Trail just south of Lindstrom.  If you are interested, there is a public hearing tonight (Thursday) at City Hall, but it is closed to the public for safety precautions of COVID-19.  You can watch via Zoom and even comment over the phone.  By joining the Zoom meeting you will be able to see any presentations on the proposed apartments and updates.  You can join the planning meeting by logging onto the City of Lindstrom's website.  The meeting begins at 6:30pm.

Wearing masks is a touchy subject.  I used to think it was sort of based on someone’s political views, but the more people who I talk to, the more I think it’s a non partisan feeling, but one that we are united on.  Wearing masks stinks.  Having my glasses fog up all of the time stinks.  Smelling my bad breath all the time stinks - literally.
I’m not here to say let’s have an uprising againt Big Brother, rather just voicing my displeasures.  I do wear a mask where I am required. I do not enjoy it. If it, in fact, does help reduce virus spread then mask away... I still am a bit perplexed at the people who wear masks when they are driving alone in their cars or trucks.

The Chisago LakeLutheran Church has kindly stepped up to assist Relay for Life this year.  

While the event is virtual (online) and not physically taking place due to COVID-19 precautions, the church has graciously agreed to display the luminaries along the  outside of the church walkway.  The public is invited to drive by or take a socially-distanced stroll August 26 to view the luminaries and reflect on those being honored.  
If you would like to purchase a luminary for a loved one or a friend to be honored  you are encouraged to contact the church office at 651-257-6300 or email them at [email protected].

Lastly, if you have ever thought about giving blood, there has never been a better time than now.  With all of the coronavirus cases in hospitals, in addition to regualr medical care,  the need for blood is at an all time high.  Giving blood is super easy and fast. If I can give it (I am a big wuss) anyone can.  

A bonus for donating to the Red Cross is they are doing free virus anti-body testing. You can see if you have anti-bodies which many believe help fight against the virus. Go to redcross.org to register.

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