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If you get the Press delivered to you, you may be reading this a day late.  The USPS closed in honor of the day of mourning for the late President Jimmy Carter.  I will admit I am on the fringe of being too young to remember and appreciate the former President.  But as the tributes roll in from around the country, it is obvious he made an impact in this country and the world as well.  

Sunday we decided to take a break from the anticipation of the big football game and  go for a skate on the lake.  For those of you who do skate but don’t live on any of our local lakes, I would highly advise you to head out for a skate.  The ice is perfect and you can literally skate around the entire lake if you choose or in my case if your legs allow it.  I am not lying to myself, I put on quite a bit of weight over the holidays and if you think you are in shape, just head out for a skate for a dose of reality.  I haven’t had my lungs burn that bad since I ran the triathlon back in.... well they burned anyway.  The one positive caveat was the following day my legs were not as sore as I expected them to be.  There are plenty of places for one to access the lakes to go for a snow-free skate such as the boat landings, beachside parks etc.

As we start a new year in local politics, we welcome in new faces.  We also say goodbye to those who have dutifully served over the last year.  Thank you for serving our communities and good luck in the next chapter of your lives.  For the new group, welcome.  I am positive you will make an impact in your comminutes.

I would also like to thank those of you who have donated over the years to assist the homeless in Minnesota.  I kick myself all the time for not writing down how many trips I have made delivering all of the wonderful clothing you as a community have donated.  Trust me folks, it’s a lot.  The groups I deliver to are always blown away at how much this community gives. 

 I would say I am surprised, but after doing this for almost 20 years, surprised is not the right word, more like proud. Proud of our amazing community and the thoughtfulness.  Thanks to all who have given, keep the donations coming!

Remember if you are a business owner - there are two business expos on the local horizon to consider.  North Branch will hold their annual one day Business Expo Saturday March 8 at the North Branch High School.  You can find all the info and register on the North Branch Chamber website.  

Chisago Lakes will hold their Business Showcase Saturday March 1 at the Wildcat Fitness Center.  You can find all the info and register on the Chisago Lakes Area Chamber’s website as well.

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