Victoria MN Newspaper

Groundhog Day. Tuesday, February 2nd. On this day in mid-winter, the groundhog awakens from a long winter's nap and goes outside of his den to see if he sees his shadow. If the groundhog sees his shadow (a sunny morning), there will be six more weeks of winter. He then returns to his den and goes back to sleep. If, however, he does not see his shadow (cloudy days), he plays around outside of his hole for a while. If he does not see his shadow, spring is just around the corner. It's a German tradition.

Joint City/School Board Mtg.

Wednesday, February 3rd. The Victoria City Council and the School Board of District 112 will meet at 5:45 at Victoria City Hall to talk together about each other's growth plans, financial plans, and citizen engagement and transparency.

Victoria Fishing Contest. Sunday, February 7th, on Stieger Lake in downtown Victoria from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Food, family fun, raffle prizes, panfish and predator prizes.

Ash Wednesday. Wednesday, February 10th. The first day of Lent, which begins 40 days prior to Easter, Sundays not included. Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation, and spiritual discipline.

Valentine's Day. Sunday, February 14th. There are many stories about Valentine's Day. Some say the custom of sending valentines stems from the medieval belief that birds choose their mates on this day, and so Valentine is the patron saint of lovers. Saint Valentine was a Roman, priest, physician, and martyr who was executed on February 14th, 269, during the reign of Emporor Claudius II Gothicus.

President's Day. Monday, February 15th. An American holiday celebrated on the third Monday in February. Originally established in 1886 in recognition of President George Washington.

Victoria City Council. Meetings held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month: February 8th and 22nd. Start time is 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Victoria City Hall on Stieger Lake Lane.

Gazette Deadline. Monday, February 22nd. Email Sue@VictoriaGazette.com or use P.O. Box 387, Victoria MN 55386.