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We have a big weekend coming up if you are looking for some local fun.  And judging by the way our Purple played on Sunday, we could use some fun to take our mind off of the season.

Shafer Days is taking place this Friday and Saturday and they would love nothing more than to celebrate with you.  

Everything gets rolling Friday with the popular Bingo held at the Shafer Fire Hall from 6-9pm.  We have been to the bingo many times and it is always a good time.  Food and beverages are available for purchase.

Beginning at 7am on Saturday, the Shafer-Franconia Fire Department invites any and all to their annual pancake breakfast.  You will be treated to awesome pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage,  milk, juice and coffee.  This is an all you can eat meal and prices are very reasonable with $6 for adults and children 5 and younger just $4.  It is one of the biggest fundraisers for the department, so come enjoy some great food and support a great group.

At 9am the hunt for the missing clog begins with clues being posted at City Hall.  Find the clog and take home $100 cash.

There is a great history display you are invited to view at City Hall along with the popular book about Shafer “From Swamp to Village”. 

Beginning at 9am, there will be street vendors that line Redwing Avenue as well as a car show that starts at 9:30am.  At the Swedish Immigrant Regional Trailhead there are kids games as well as a bouncy house to entertain the little ones.  

At 12:30pm, the legendary Shafer Bank Robbery re-enactment will take place in front of the old bank building.  There is live music all day— with Lipstick and Dynamite playing at Ole’s Crossroads Bar 8pm.

The grand day parade makes its way through town at 4pm so bring your lawnchairs.

On Sunday (Shafer Days will be over), you are all invited to Almelund to take part in the 2023 Apple Fest.  If you like apples, this is your ticket.  Plus, you will find desserts, Swedish sausage, burgers and brats, kettle corn.  Caramel apples and fresh picked apples ready for purchase, as far as the eye can see.  

If you have never been to Apple Fest I would recommend it.  It is the most laid back celebration centered on a really neat piece of history.  There are two museums as well as many old-time displays, with model T rides and a petting zoo.  The event is free but bring some money to purchase some delicious treats to bring home.  It runs from 11am to 4pm and is held right in downtown Almelund.  

On Sunday, the Friends of Allemansratt Park invite you to the 5th annual Nature Party.  Held at the park, the party includes hot dog and marshmallow roasting, tours of the historic Anderson House, a digital scavenger hunt, an interactive water game, geocaching, yard games and a Allemansratt trivia contest with cash prizes.    The event is free and runs from 1-5pm.

On Monday, the community is invited to come celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Chisago Lakes Community Meal.  The picnic will be held at Zion Lutheran Church on the side lawn from 4-6pm.  Come enjoy fun, great food, fellowship with friends and neighbors with live music and face painting.  The event is free with and goodwill donations appreciated.

A lot of you have been asking when we will be collecting cold weather clothing for the homeless. Sadly that time is now.  Feel free to bring your gently used warm clothing to us here at the Press and we will see they make it on the backs of some grateful Minnesotans.

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