We had a busy Labor Day weekend. We were able to get to the State Fair, which we always enjoy. On August 30 I helped Larry Valek and Dale Swanson do an auction for the Rice County Steam and Gas Association at their site south of Dundas on Highway 3. This is an annual event with an auction, a nice flea market, and an exceptional display and parade of old tractors. This year International Harvester was featured. Next year’s feature will be Oliver!!

Right after the auction, I went to the airport to pick up Nathan, who just returned from a month studying in Albania. On Sunday we went antiquing in Rochester and Mantorville, and Monday to antique stores in Red Wing.

This week we will be busy with Defeat of Jesse James Days in Northfield. On Saturday, I will be announcing at the Antique Tractor Pull. I have done this for the past few years and it is always a fun event. This is one of the oldest (and best) antique tractor pulls in Southern Minnesota. It is very well run and you can see some of the best old tractors around. You can take in the tractor pull and stay for the rodeo without even moving your car. Don’t miss the parade and all the food on Bridge Square.

We are working on completing the listing for the Marilyn Machacek Estate auction which will be held on October 18 and 19. The auction flyers will be ready soon and we will soon have the catalog up on the web. There are about 750 pictures for your enjoyment. This will really be a fine auction, with some very nice and unusual pieces. Marilyn was widely known for her knowledge of fine antiques.

Our Fall season really gets going with the Wood milk glass auction in Albert Lea on September 20, with lots of work before then to get the auctions ready.