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"What a winter" is the common theme we hear from visitors at the Press. Normally that would translate into "I am so sick of shoveling that I threw my shovel on the driveway and backed over it seven times," but not this year. I am not ready to fully rest the blame on global warming, but you have to admit, it is starting to feel like a trend. I can't remember this late in the winter when ice fishermen had to actually walk out to their houses instead of drive their vehicles. Although the tepid temps please some people, they are hurting plenty of businesses statewide. Usually me writing about the weather brings about a complete reversal of fortune, so yes, I hope it stays unseasonably warm all winter. There, that should do the trick

The Chisago Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its annual Celebration of the Lakes Hot Air Balloon Festival. The festival will take place January 26-28, on North Center Lake, just off Highway 8. The Chamber, along with the Chisago County Press, just finished this year's Celebration of the Lakes circular. The tab features a schedule of events, along with some other interesting tidbits relating to the celebration. You will also find some really beautiful photos that were taken over the years by some of our readers. Just another reminder to bring your camera to this year's celebration, not only could you win some money, but you could be published in next year's celebration circular.

The celebration will feature all kinds of events for everyone of all ages. There will be money-saving bargains from area merchants when you are wearing your 2007 Celebration of the Lakes button.

How is this for a list of activities--ice skating, sleigh rides, a broomball tournament, a hockey tournament, helicopter rides, a 5K race/walk, sled dog rides, snowmobile radar runs, Gran Prix ice racing, a medallion hunt, a spaghetti feed, a firemen's ball and many, many more things for you and your family to partake in.

Watch for all of the promotions and a list of events to be posted in this year's Celebration of the Lakes circular and in upcoming Chisago County Press issues. With the purchase of a button, it allows you to be entered in several drawings for prizes, along with being collectable. The buttons are beautiful and they help promote the event and the chamber.

Just a quick plug for one of our advertisers. About a month ago, I was having severe shoulder pain. I attribute the pain to dislocating my shoulder a couple of years ago and probably never really rehabbed it properly. Anyway, I was really getting tired of the lingering pain and was ready to try anything. That is when I decided to give Dr. Thao, of Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic, a call. After a brief consult, I let the good doctor use me as a pin cushion. I was shocked. Acupuncture was supposed to hurt, but it didn't. Now, two sessions and three weeks later, I have no shoulder pain whatsoever. If you would like to take a different approach to whatever is ailing you, I would suggest Dr. Thao. His business is located in the Swedish Village Mall in Center City.

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