Daisy Fest!

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

Charles asked attendees to write down what 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, all are welcome!

+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.

Art on the go

Charles shared the news of his blue ribbons from the fair at the Monday morning staff meeting. By Thursday, he had given away seven of his paintings to staff and one resident. By Friday, Charles had requests for three new paintings! 

Wind Down Wednesday

The action heats up

Building name recognition

Having fun on Broadway

Working at the HRC booth

 

The final Wind Down Wednesday of the summer took part today and Charles was on the scene. He was there first as a candidate, wearing his campaign gear up and down Broadway. Then he went back, helping out at the Human Rights Commission booth.