“World's Most Complete Neighborpedia”
Explore:   What's happening in your neck of the woods?

William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN

Post Office Woes....

Well, the post office is complaining they will be heavily into the red again. The new rate increase will NOT bring them into the black. There is talk about going to a 5 day delivery.

I THOUGHT THAT 30 YEARS AGO!

In today's age of instant messaging, do we really need the mail on Saturday. I see enough junk mail and bills all week long. I can't remember the last time I received a letter through the mail. I even get more E-Mail holiday cards that paper ones.

Stop and think of the energy this would save the country besides! The only down side of this that I can see, is the loss of some jobs. But considering the buyouts going on, I think the Post Office needs to think even harder about this.

But, the idea of no mail one day during the week is stupid...the workers would not get 2 days off in a row. That is just dumb.

Post Master General...Think long and hard. Eliminate Saturday service for the good of the country!!!

Gun Ownership Rising at a Tremendous pace.

Most Gun retailers are seeing a large increase in Gun sales. The biggest increase has been since after the holidays and when Obama took office. The reasons vary greatly.

Obama has talked about more control on firearms and ammunition. So, many hunters and target shooters have been purchasing the new rifle or pistol before regulations get any tougher.

Many private home owners have also been purchasing guns for protection. With the fear of the economy, they feel they need to protect property and family.

One of the biggest mistakes people will make, is buying the gun and not knowing how to use it. This is a recipe for DISASTER. There are some things to think about...

1. What are the chances you will need to use a weapon?

2. Is the weapon for home or to carry concealed?

3. If a weapon is carried concealed, how far must someone be from you to give you time to pull out the weapon if you need to. ( Most police departments found that it's officers need at least 22 feet of space between them and the suspect in order for an officer to draw his weapon and shoot.)

4. If you draw your weapon...are you capable of actually using it?!!! ( It has been found that a high percent are NOT).

5. What type of weapon, should you decide that one is needed, is right for you, and can you control it?

6. Are you able to store it safely and still get to it when it is needed?!!!

These are just a few to think about. The same goes true for someone using MACE. You need to practice the use of it. Know how to point it and when to use it. Getting it out of your purse is no faster than an officer getting to his gun.

I am not saying that you should not buy or own a gun, i have a few myself, but buying a weapon and throwing it into a drawer for a few years and not practicing is a very bad idea.

ANY OTHER POINTS I MISSED PLEASE COMMENT...THANKS!!!

Buckthorn...a threat to our native Forests.

Buckthorn was imported from Europe in the 1800's as a hedgeing material. this shrub quickley started to get out of hand. It looks to be real inviting for the local birds because of the berries it produces, but, it is not a favorite of the birds. In fact it is more of a last choice.

This shrub over takes everything in it's path. There are sharp thorns on the ends of the branches and most animales that browse on shrubs do not eat it. It may grow as tall as 25 feet and chokes out all comers. IN addition, it hosts many other pests that are harmeful to our gardnes and our farm crops.

I have been working on this stuff at home. Not knowing what it was when I moved here, It took only a year to find that I did NOT like it.

I have just heard about a program throught he DNR that will help eradicate this shrub. There is a one time payment from the DNR. You can call Jeff Guillemat at 651-228-5588 for more information on this program.

PLEASE, do yourself a favor and our forests a favor and call for help on this. If you are a hunter, you WILL improve your property for all wildlife by getting rid of this shrub.

Last warning to move the house!

This sunday the 1st of March is the last day you have to move your Fish House off Minnesota's lakes. The southern 2/3 rds of the state requires you house to be off this Sunday, Northern 1/3 you still have a few weeks.

Being we were moving it last weekend, we did a bit of fishing...

This 35" Northern was caught by the guys in the house next to us. After a few pictures it was sent swimming on it's way.

This one caught by yours truely...just over 24 inches (about 5 pounds). She was also released to live anothe day. She was full of eggs as the belly was real full. The Northerns will spawn (lay their eggs) during the first weeks of april.

Friday's Funny...Ice Fishing with the Good Ol' boys.

Those of you who have followed my blogs have seen a few about the Good Ol' Boys in the neighborhood. I seen the guys 3 days ago. They were going to try Ice Fishing for the first time. 2 days ago I stopped to talk with them, but the wives said they were tired and had gone to bed. I went last night to see them, and the same thing. I asked one of the wives if they caught anything...one said she thinks her husband is catching a cold.

Frustrated and curious I stopped by this morning...talking with them at breakfast I asked them why they were so tired and why no fish. One of them said they hadn't got far enough out into the lake yet. I am now even more puzzled. What do you mean I asked.

"Well, we cut a hole big enough for the boat to go through about 50 feet the first day. When we went back the next day, the darn hole was froze shut and we had to cut it all over again. I think we is going to wait till spring when the ice is gone!

NEVER UNDERESTAMATE THE BRILLIANCE OF YOUR FELLOW MAN!