Victoria MN Newspaper

Victoria Fishing Contest. Sunday, February 2nd. It was from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. on Stieger Lake near downtown.

Ground Hog Day. Sunday, 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.

Victoria Bloodmobile. Wednesday, February 5th, at the Victoria Recreation Center from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Victoria Lions.

Valentine's Day. Friday, 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 17th. An American holiday celebrated on the third Monday in February. Originally established in 1886 in recognition of President George Washington.

Gazette Deadline. Monday, February 24th. Email Sue@VictoriaGazette.com or use P.O. Box 387, Victoria 55386.

Victoria City Council. Monday, February 10th, and Monday, February 24th, starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Council Chambers on Rose Street in downtown Victoria.

Ash Wednesday. Wednesday, March 5th. 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.