The Fourth of July, or as it is often called “Independence Day,” is a national holiday celebrated by the majority of Americans. Ask anyone on the street and they will tell you the day is marked by parades, picnics, and pyrotechnics (a display of fireworks).

The community of St. James reached a milestone Sunday as the new soccer field behind Northside Elementary was officially opened for competition. Community leaders such as Gary Sturm, Bill Berg, Sue Harris, Michelle Mohlenbrock, and Dick Downs spoke to an anxious crowd of soccer players and supporters, all leading up to a ribbon cutting.

Wouldn’t it be nice to try out a career before actually doing the work to make it happen? A person could put the education, training, even the wardrobe on hold to see if he/she actually liked the job. Well, this summer, St. James’ youth get the opportunity to do just that -- “testdrive” a career.

    Railroad Days 2009 is now one for the history books and what a week it was! RR Days President, Jim Neid, reported the event a “great success.” “We had perfect weather as compared to the downpours of rain last year,” said Neid.

The desperate case Alejandro Cruz Blanco finds himself in is sadly a common one. The 21-year-old immigrant has no insurance, little money, and two very bad kidneys. Without a transplant the young man would surely die within a few years. But Alejandro -- friends call him Alex -- has people working for him: doctors, nurses, an entire hospital really; Vicky Otero-Diaz and her group of Hispanic Catholic Choir; and St. James’ community members; all of whom have no other incentive than to give this kid a chance.

  Let’s Go Fishing is planning a fundraiser meal on Saturday, June 27th during the St. James Railroad Days celebration. The meal will be served at the St. James VFW before and after the parade from 4:00-6:00 and from 8:00-9:00. The dinner will have a main entree choice of walleye or shrimp served with coleslaw, a baked potato and dinner roll. The Over 60 Band will play and entertain from 8:00-9:00. Tickets will be sold at the door.