November 26, 2025 | Mark Luis Foster

If you’re reading this in Minnesota, chances are you’re dealing with some level of snow cover this morning. Here in the south metro where I live, we had three days of media hype about blizzard conditions and plowable (trigger-able) snow levels, etc.  Sigh. We got 1/4″ in Lakeville — so no plows to clear my HOA today. It’s going to be good old fashioned shovel power for us as we prepare for the onslaught of relatives coming to our home.

Are you traveling this week? If so, you’re among friends. Some 82 million Americans are expected to hit the road or air for travel distances of 50 miles or more over Thanksgiving weekend. Nearly 73 million plan to take the roads, while close to 6 million plan to fly.

Thanksgiving was made a regularly observed holiday in America after President Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 proclamation establishing a day of thanks. According to the News Source 1440:

Today, about 94% of Americans say they plan to celebrate, with around 87% serving turkey alongside classic sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and rolls (check out regional favorites here). The average cost of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for 10 is $55.18, or roughly $5.50 per person, marking the third consecutive year of price declines. Meat thermometers, cake pans, and measuring cups topped the list of last-minute buys in 2024. For dessert, pumpkin pie reigns as the nation’s top pick.

If you’re traveling, travel safe! If you’re celebrating, give thanks. And from the HOA Leadership Network, we THANK YOU for being loyal member.