OK, so last week’s column got a little political and, hey, sometimes I do that, but for those of you who were bothered by the column, I will be setting up a time for all of us to sit down and have a beer together. It’s the only way to solve our differences and, hey, who doesn’t like beer!

For my 75 other readers, thanks for reading me again this week. Hi, mom!

The fair is here, and you know what that means — food, fun and seeing people you never ever have seen before. Seriously, I was walking yesterday through the fair and I hardly recognized anyone. I think that is good because it means the fair is bringing a whole bunch of new people to Albert Lea.

The fair is also awesome for showing off our area’s finest green thumbs and gardeners. Just one walk into the Floral Hall, and you can see how hard and dedicated some people are. Wow! To all of the ribbon winners in all categories — congrats, as this area is plentiful with many talented people.

I want to thank the fair board and workers for making the fair a great event. I know how hard you all work and more people need to thank you for making the fair such a positive experience for our area.

Talking dogs?

I was talking to my dogs Molly and Scout last weekend. I know you are thinking I may be off my rocker a bit, but, hey, they always agree with me and they do not talk back. As I was talking to them I was thinking how cool it would be if they could do more to help around the house. I just think it would be great to say to them, “Good, Molly, go take out the garbage,” or, “Here, Scout, how about folding that laundry?” Really if you think about it, then they would be a woman’s best friend, too!

It is not like we do not spoil them silly. They eat, sleep, and you know the third. Hey, wait, I think I might have just described a teenager as well. Actually, it might be easier to get a dog to fold laundry than a teenager — just a thought. What chore would you like your pet to do?

‘Goonies’

Our annual 30 Under 40 came out last Friday, and I always like to read about the different people around our community. Congratulations to all of the great folks who took part. Some things I found quite interesting were that Bryan Skogheim’s favorite movie was “Goonies,” as that is my favorite movie to watch with my daughter. Kelly Becker had Gandhi and Vince Lombardi as two people with whom she would like to have dinner. I love that Gandhi is a Packer fan. Who knew? Kisti Skaar would have Abe Lincoln eat dinner with her, but only if he brought his hat and let her wear it. It was quite entertaining reading all about the great people who are our neighbors.

Relay for Life

Do not forget — next week is the Relay for Life! The best night of the year is Friday Aug. 14. Cancer gets a big kick in the butt! Come out to walk, have fun, raise money and remember the great people that this nasty disease took away from us.

Thanks for listening.

Tribune Publisher Scott Schmeltzer’s column appears every Thursday.