It’s that time of year as summer is beginning to wind down.

The Mower Country Fair has come and gone and many local activities are still happening, but its time for those school bells to ring and start a new year.

We too are looking forward to the upcoming fall season, along with great travel trips to be had.

On Sept. 28, we have decided to head for Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin for a four hour fall cruise on the Mississippi River. The Celebration Belle will entertain us with music, a buffet, narration and a chance to sit in the open air on the fourth deck and get a beautiful view of fall leaves. The fee is due by Aug. 30. The travel office has limited hours this month, but will be open on Aug. 29 and 30. You may always use our mailing address, 1002 16th Street SW Austin, Minnesota 55912.

From Oct. 4-12, the National Balloon Fest and the Southwest will be our designation for this year’s extended trip. We have included many highlights along the way, plus three days at the fest.

This amazing display of balloons in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a truly glowing experience. An area larger than 54 footfball fields will be covered with everything beginning with the Special Shapes Rodeo. Early morning launches to late night fireworks. Other highlights a stop at the Oklahoma City memorial site of the 1995 Federal Building Bombing, the National Cowboy Museum in Oklahoma, Sante Fe and a visit to St. Francis Cathedral and Loretta Chapel.Garden of the Gods near Colorado Springs will be on the route as well.

This trip is by deluxe motor coach with the fee date due by Aug. 30. However, we are extending sign-ups as we still do have several openings. Please call 507-438-3946 for more information. These trips are open to the public.

We are not sponsoring a motor coach trip to the Minnesota State Fair the year. If there’s enough interest, we will offer that trip again next year.

Newsletters are always available at the senior center on the south entrance.