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This past Tuesday was Veterans Day. With the election last week, I completely neglected to write about this special day. If you have ever read my articles in the past, you know what a huge fan I am of our local Vets. Not only did these men and women risk their lives to make this a safe and wonderful country, but they are very important in our lives locally. They have constructed one of the most beautiful memorials in the country right here in Lindstrom. They are bringing a once in a lifetime Vietnam traveling Wall to our area. You can find a Vet involved in almost every event in our area. Even though November 11 has come and gone, be sure to express your thanks to any and all of our local Vets for all they have done and for all they continue to do. And Ken, if you are reading this, thank you for all you have done. You have become a wonderful friend, and you are missed dearly.

Last Tuesday's election day was one for the books. Not only did the United States see record numbers turn out to the polls, but locally we saw an astounding 94 percent voter turn out in Chisago County, wow! We (Chisago County) should hold our heads high and be proud of that number. Yes, the Presidential race had a lot to do with it, but we have had many other Presidential races when the numbers were not this high. No matter how you look at it 94 percent is astronomical.

The voters made some really big changes in this election. We seated an African American as President, we may or may not have unseated a normally popular U.S. Senator with a comedian (stay tuned), and we made some big changes both in Chisago County and local government.

The most notable would have to be Bob Gustafson losing to George McMahon. Mr. Gustafson has served on the County Board for years and years before losing in this election. People may not always agree about everything that Bob has done over the years, but I know that he really tried to put his constituents first, and for that he deserves our thanks. As for Mr. McMahon, I am sure he will do a wonderful job and get our county headed in the right direction.

We also lost another County Board member in this election. Lynn Schultz was defeated by Lora Walker by a small margin. Again I would like to thank Lynn for all her hard work at the county level. When I first started at the paper, Lynn and I had our disagreements. But the more I got to know her, the more I really enjoyed working with her. She did a fine job serving our county and should be commended for that. I am positive that Lora Walker will also be a fine addition to the County Board, which she has served on before.

Center City also has a new face. Jill Behnke will take over as Mayor. Mark Wolcott, long time Mayor, did not file for the position and was elected to serve on the Center City Council.

Finally, Lindstrom residents will see a familiar face at upcoming Council meetings. Former mayor Roger Lindgren is back as a Councilman.

We are getting ready to prepare our 2009 Chisago Lakes Community Guide and Visitors Guide and we need your help. The past few years, we have solicited and used reader's photos for the cover of the guide.

Here's where you come in. We are looking for some great photos that really show a Chisago Lakes theme. The photos can be of nature, people or whatever you think would make an attractive cover for our guide. Last year, we used a photo by Dr. Carlton Erickson that was just beautiful, we still receive compliments.

The winner will receive photo credit for the cover and also a $100 savings bond from the County Press. Send your photos to the Chisago County Press, PO Box 748, Lindstrom, MN 55045. Please include your name and phone number (we will need to contact the winner to get a digital version of their photo).

On a sad note, Chuck Fitzer (one of our sports writers), is dealing with the loss of his father, who passed away recently. We here at the Press would like to pass along our deepest sympathy to Chuck and his family.

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