In the news

Charles was interviewed by our local newspaper for an article about the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Charles shared his experiences as a Navy chaplain assigned to the Naval Hospital - Camp Lejeune (NC). Read the article at this link.

More paintings!

Gift to Ryan Kettleson

Gift to Kailee Phillips

Gift to Kailee Phillips

Gift to Linda Hughes-Foyte

Gift to Linda Hughes-Foyte

Charles presented five new paintings to three Thorne Crest staff members this week. Ryan, Kailee, and Linda were pleased with Charles' creations which is always a joy to hear when painting go to their new home.

Daisy Fest!

We had a delightful time today at Central Park in Albert Lea for the seventh annual Daisy Fest (sponsored by Daisy Blue Naturals). Charles had a booth, promoting his candidacy for Albert Lea City Council, getting to know potential voters, and offering "swag."

Charles asked attendees to write down what they wanted to see (or not see) in Albert Lea.

Here are the results to "I want Albert Lea to..."

+Businesses that can afford to stay

+Be happy

+More kid-friendly activities

+Community events

+Animals (pets) need to stay in their own yard

+Home-free healthcare

+More bike paths

+Upgrade parks

+Be kinder to landlords

+More mental health services (2 times)

+No data centers

+Help for the homeless (3 times)

+Be kind

+Bring in more retail businesses

+Get more clothing stores (3 times)

+Be amazing

+Help animals

+Service/companion dogs are treated equally!

+Mountains

One year and counting!

Belinda one-year work anniversary was celebrated at work today by the staff of the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce, Albert Lea Economic Development Agency, and the Albert Lea Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Thursday on Fountain

Charles took some time this afternoon to check out the community event, Thursdays on Fountain. It was fun seeing everyone coming together to enjoy music and a terrific venue!

Latest batch of paintings

Where the magic happens

"Dale's Salute"

"Puuruska" 
(the change of tree leaves to colorful hues)

"Höstkväll" (Autumn Evening)

Charles received four requests for paintings from Thorne Crest staff and another he offered to paint for a member of the Glenville UMC who moved into a long-term care facility. There are still two more painting on the docket - stay tuned for updates!

Happy Black Cat Day

In honor of Black Cat Day, here is a picture of B.K. (Black Kitty), a daily visitor to our back deck.