For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, Willow River State Park in Hudson is the place to be this winter. With more than five miles of multiuse trails for hiking and snowshoeing, and 14 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, the park has something for everyone. Winter camping is also available. Approximately 1.9 miles of the multiuse trail is wider and snow-packed, which makes it ideal for dog sledding or skijoring, which involves being pulled on skis by a dog. Read more about Willow River State Park in Hudson is a Destination for Snowshoeing, Hiking, Skiing and More

Some of Maureen Bausch’s fondest football memories have taken place at Pony Stadium. Years ago, as Bausch (then Maureen Hooley) performed with the Stillwater Area High School Chavel dance line team during halftime shows at football games, no one could have predicted that one day this outgoing teenager from the class of 1972 would lead the biggest football event in the world—the Super Bowl. Not even Bausch herself. Read more about Stillwater Native Maureen Bausch Leads the Minnesota Super Bowl LII Host Committee

As A physician retired from family practice in Stillwater and the U.S. Navy, Dr. Paul Quinn was aware of the common signs of Alzheimer’s disease and its prognosis. When he recognized the symptoms of the disease beginning to affect his own life—mainly a worsening short-term memory—he understood the ramifications. “My mother had Alzheimer’s,” he says, noting that the disease can run in families. “I kind of knew that’s what it was.” Read more about Stillwater Physician Paul Quinn Strives to Remove the stigma of Alzheimer’s Disease

Ah, the new year, when everyone’s thoughts turn to new beginnings, life changes and optimism for the future. Instead of sharing a book about resolutions such as diets and healthy cooking, I’m recommending something different: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. Many people know Gilbert from her best-selling memoir Eat Pray Love. Read more about Books: Big Magic