By Shannon Fiecke, Staff Writer

He's a great conversationalist, a ferocious reader, a lover of music, an excellent cook and a gifted leader trained in the sciences and theology. As one of his parishioners says, “Father Bill” could have done anything with his life. But he chose to serve God. And he chose to come to Shakopee.

Born into a working-class Catholic family in Marshfield, Wis., the Rev. William Stolzman started his adult career as a high school science and math teacher.

By Ruth Anne Maddox

Staff Writer

By Shannon Fiecke, Staff Writer

One person has carried an ax handle for protection. Another
stows a gun in his garage.

Their neighborhood of lakeshore homes off Townline Avenue may appear idyllic, but residents say they have lived for years in fear of a neighborhood dog with a history of attacking other animals, chasing children and biting passersby.

By Shannon Fiecke, Staff Writer

Local history buffs thought they might have a new owner for an
endangered house on Fourth Avenue when Habitat for Humanity decided to take a
look.

Shakopee’s Historical Preservation Advisory Commission has been
looking for a buyer for the 133-year-old house, which will be demolished by
Scott County unless someone takes the two-story brick home, which is referred
to as the Buch House.

The annual Derby Days Medallion Hunt, sponsored by the Valley News, starts today. The finder will receive a $200 cash prize.

What: The Minnesota State Fair’s Amateur Talent Contest auditions begin Monday, July 28. Head to the fairgrounds for audition footage and interviews with performers.

Who: Dancers, singers, comedians, jugglers - you name it! Performers of all ages audition in hopes of being one of the 120 chosen to perform during semi-finals at the 2008 Minnesota State Fair.

A one-stop shop of data on alcohol, tobacco and drug consumption and consequences in Minnesota is now available at www.sumn.org.

Think you’re fast on a mountain bike? Can your time hold up to those of other competitors? Are you up for the challenge?

Then compete in the “Murphy Mountain Bike Sprint Series” from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, Aug. 6, 13 and 20 at Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve in Savage.

Shakopee High School cheerleaders will hold a car wash from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Saturday in the parking lot of Walgreen’s, 1291 Tasha Drive (off Vierling Drive).

The cheerleaders will accept donations for the car wash.