I believe this will be my 75th column that I’ve written for theThe Extra. I started after the election but before I was sworn in. I got an email thanking me for agreeing to do a Mayor Column for theThe Extra, and letting me know about word detail and deadlines. I thought “I agreed to write a column?” And then I thought, “I can do this. It is one more piece of the puzzle for how I can better connect with Moorhead.” And so, once a week, I have pretty faithfully written them on a variety of topics. I’ve written them on subjects from the FM Diversion to Arts to Neighborhood Block parties to the color, Yellow.

My main goal was to inform, talk about topics people are wondering about, things that are happening, and things that will soon happen. I will seeThe Extra’s new format the same time as you will, but I am really pleased for a variety of reasons. I like that our community will have another venue where we can share Moorhead information and events that are happening close to home. I like that there will be a Moorhead focus for the whole periodical, and it will highlight with pictures all of the opportunities and cool things that are happening in our community. I like that it will give us a place to focus our community discussions and dreams. I like that it is free. Everybody can read it. I hope you will enjoy having this in our community. Please, help them know what’s going on by connecting withThe Extra; give them a heads up about your organization’s events and accomplishments. Enjoy. Read.