Twenty-thirteen brings the celebration of birth for William Chew and Andrea Blake of Sartell, who welcomed their new baby girl, Avalene Junette into the world Jan. 3. The first baby of the New Year at Lakewood Health System, Avalene was born at 3:23 p.

By Sgt. CURT S. MOWERS Minnesota State Patrol Question: I have been hearing discussions for years now that red cars are most frequently stopped by law enforcement officers, compared to other colored cars.

She likes to be goofy, even when she's getting in trouble.

It's an evening filled with lights, noise, family and friends - and more often than not some celebratory champagne when the clock strikes midnight.

Question: How bad is winter compared to summer when it comes to crashes? Is it as bad as we think it is or what? It seems like we have a lot more crashes when the snow flies.

In life we are provided very few situations in which we are rewarded just by walking into a room. Mentoring is one of those rare situations. A child's life improves the moment you demonstrate a willingness to care.

■ Miller Black Bear Trail proposal to go before trails committee Jan. 23

The public comment period for the proposed all-terrain vehicle Miller Black Bear Trail is closed.

Santa's busiest helper By CAROL JOAN CAMPBELL Age 79 Brainerd Up in the North Pole in Santa Claus land, things are always busy.

■ A Christmas of Yesteryear By MARILYN KUEHL Age 75 Nisswa The year was 1945. My father was feeling the pain and frustration of the Great Depression long after it was over.

■ My Christmas Trip By HAILEY CARLSON Age 9 Pequot Lakes My Christmas present was the best ever last year. I got to go to Arizona! I went on a plane and when we got there we got a car rental. It was a red Mustang.