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This weekend is a very special holiday. While it is not celebrated by exchanging gifts or cooking an over-stuffed turkey, it is one that should be honored by each and every one of us. I am speaking of course about Memorial Day.

After a long, long winter, people usually use Memorial Day as their official kick off to summer. Many people choose to venture out for a small vacation and many others like myself usually find enough outside household chores to keep themselves busy. All of that is fine and dandy, but this year take the time to reflect on what Memorial Day is really about, honoring those who have left our world and how they have touched our hearts. Especially those who have served our great country. Let's face it folks, without their contributions, we certainly would not have the wonderful lifestyle and freedom we have today.

This Memorial Day make sure you talk with your children and explain to them that this is not just a free day off from school. Rather, it is a day to honor our forefathers who gave their heart and soul to give us a better life. So please join me and fly your flags with pride, remember to reflect on those who have fallen and enjoy those brats.

In this edition of the Press, you will find two pages of Memorial Day services along with advertisers who support our local Memorial Day services. If you would like to attend a service, there are many taking place around the area, just check the schedule in the Press. The Veterans would love to see you.

If you are a fan of the "I Spy" children's books, where they have you scan two pages and try to find hidden items, we have just what you are looking for. Joe's Pizza has taken the idea of hiding something and ran with it. In editions of the Search when it is advertised, Joe will let you know that his signature little "Joe" character has been shrunk and placed somewhere in the Chisago County Press. Here is the best part. On top of thoroughly reading a great newspaper, if you happen to be the first to find "little Joe", you can win a free pizza. Just bring in your edition of the Press and show Joe where his smaller sidekick is and you can win a free medium pizza. Be aware, the first week of this promotion, no one found "little Joe". Good luck.

I was speaking with Dean Mitchell last week about the Chisago Roadhouse Tavern. He was telling me that they have a huge celebration happening this weekend. It is their Community Appreciation Day, and they want you to come. I know what you are thinking, what about our kids? Dean wanted you to know that the Roadhouse Tavern has changed from what we all knew as Rocky J's. It is a very family oriented bar and grill with wonderful food.

The Community Appreciation Day begins at 1 p.m. with a classic car and truck show. Live music starts at 4 p.m. with Bob and the Beachcombers. Entertainment continues all evening long.

I recently had lunch at the Chisago Roadhouse Tavern, and I can vouch for the Mitchells. They have really made it into a fun, safe and enjoyable dining establishment.

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