---

Last Monday was Memorial Day with commemoration to those soldiers who have served our country during war time and who have died being remembered. Programs were held throughout the county doing just that with parades, services, the decorating of cemeteries and celebrations all taking place on Monday. Here is a photo of what I think sums up the entire meaning of the day. It's one of longtime American Legion/VFW 'active" member Don Kobbervig, Dodgeville, as the ceremony closes at the Iowa County Courthouse Veterans Memorial.
*****
Last weekend was graduation weekend from most of the area schools. Brother Pat and I had the chance to attend several gradation parties in Dodgeville. Boy, it's a good thing that graduations don't happen every day or I would weigh some 300 pounds. The foods (spreads) that is put out at those events are something else. I surely didn't go hungry those days and may just have enough in me to hold me this entire week!
*****
Alot of times people ask me to update them on some Michael's activities. Well, he called me the other night and we had an extended conversation. it's easier for him to call me as he doesn't get reception in his apartment - said it's in the "rich" neighborhood and those people must want their privacy!
We don't get together as much as we'd like as both of us seem to be working all of the time. He is still the night manager at HYVEE Foods in Waterloo (Iowa yuk!) and when asked how he likes his job says, "It's a job!" His wife (Jolisa) has been hired on to be a police officer in a neighboring town and the staff there really likes her. There is a chink in the armor though as she is having trouble passing her "shooting" test. It seems the training she received at Hawkeye wasn't the proper training. The firearms instructors there have since been let go, but that doesn't help her much. She has to start from square one with her firearms training and she was supposed to drive alone for the first time on Wednesday - but that won't happen until she passes her firearms training. They hope that doesn't jeopardize her job there as they are looking to buy a house in Waterloo. I told them not to until she is assured of the job as Michael said he will locate wherever she gets a job and they don't need a house in Waterloo if they end up miles away. I will know more about the outcome in a few days, but until then......the story continues!
*****
This Thursday (tonight) is the annual Bloomfield Manor Healthcare Balloon Fest. It's always a great time for the entire family as there is stuff to do for ages 2-100. There will be a huge parade, music, great food, games, and a lot more!
*****
Also, this Saturday the Iowa County Fairgrounds in Mineral Point will be the scene of the annual Iowa County Dairy Breakfast. Every now and then the committee holds the event at the fairgrounds to give the farmers a year off from the pressure of getting their farm ready for the early morning event. There is a lot of fun for the entire family at that event with the food just kicking off the festivities. It's well worth the trip to the fairgrounds!