THE BRIGHT SIDE

Spring is coming.
The spring equinox marks the first day of spring in the northern hemisphere. It occurs when the sun is directly above the equator, resulting in nearly equal daylight and night hours. Vernal translates to “new” and “fresh,” and equinox is derived from the Latin aequus (equal) and nox (night). The vernal equinox usually falls on March 19, 20, or 21, but the exact date varies. This year spring starts Thursday, March 20th, and ends Friday, June 20th. Even though we know that after December 21st, the days start getting steadily longer, we still see more darkness than light over a day in those three months leading up to spring.

The vernal equinox marks the turning point when daylight begins to win out over darkness. At this moment, the direct rays of the Sun are shining down on the equator producing the effect of equal day and night (give or take a few minutes, see below). We can already see the difference in the sunlight gracing us with its presence much longer than before. The ice on the lake is starting to retreat from the shoreline, birds are chirping, warmer temps are coming, and flowers will be blooming. When out at the stores all the spring products and planting supplies are on full display. Spring is a time of new beginnings and hope for a better future. With longer daylight hours the future is looking bright.

Place of the Week

Fish fry Fridays are here. Mars offers Fried bluegill, lake perch, walleye, and cod. Cod is offered both fried and broiled.