5 Things Rochester-Area Residents Can Be Thankful For
Thanksgiving is a time when we count our blessings and remember those who are less fortunate than we are. We took to Facebook to ask our listeners what things they were most thankful for this year. Their top three answers were family, friends and health.
For those fortunate enough to have the joy of all three of these benefits in their lives, Thanksgiving is truly a time to be thankful. In truth, we have so much to be thankful for. This is especially true for those of us living in the Rochester area. This year has been positive for our city and our state in so many ways. Here are five random ones.
I know, I know... some of you will find reasons to grumble about even these things, even at this time of year because, well, that's just how some people are! But I'd argue that it would be hard for a majority of those who live in the Rochester area to say much negative about these, especially when compared to other places in our country and in our world.
- Getty Images
Getty Images Winter Is Taking Its Time Getting Here
Not long ago, the Facebook news feed popped up with a photo showing what the area looked like on November 14, 2014 and what it looked like on November 14, 2015. We had a ton of snow already last year at this time! And, while the last few days have been a bit colder, autumn is hanging on pretty strongly! Let's hope the warmer weather holds on just a little longer. Or a lot longer...
- photo by Kim David/Townsquare Media
photo by Kim David/Townsquare Media Gas Prices Are the Lowest They Have Been in a Long, Long Time
We can only hope the trend will continue through the holiday season and the New Year, but in any case, Rochester is enjoying the lowest gas prices in recent memory and some of the lowest in the state. It's hard to remember the last time we had gasoline prices as low as the $1.93 we're seeing at the pumps today!
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Getty Images Our Local Economy Is Strong
We've had a positive year on the economic front in Rochester. Our October unemployment rate came in at just 2.6 percent. There are 'Help Wanted' signs all over town. Our area construction sector is enjoying its best year in a decade. And grand plans are underway for the continued growth of the Med City.
- Getty Images
Getty Images We Have Great Schools
Our state education system is among the best in the country. Minnesota ranks in the top 10 according to an Education Week study of the states with the best schools. And among Minnesota high schools, Rochester's three public high schools all rank in the top 40. Our schools do a good job of preparing students for life beyond school.
Our NFL Team Is Still Relavent in November
Despite their recent loss to the rival Green Bay Packers, the Minnesota Vikings find themselves at 7-3 heading into Thanksgiving Weekend, and tied at the top of the NFC North Division. Not only are they still in the hunt for the division title, but they are also in a very strong position to make the playoffs as a wildcard if they don't win the division. There is a lot to be excited about on the gridiron over the next six weeks and, hopefully, beyond!
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