For those in Minneapolis planning to get ahead on any city-related business, it's time to mark your calendars. The Minneapolis City government offices are announcing a brief pause as the nation prepares to observe Presidents Day.

Waste management continues to be the silent guardian of urban cleanliness, with garbage and recycling pick-up maintaining its regular rhythm despite the holiday. And for anyone planning to take the car out for a spin, take note: The City's metered parking spaces are taking a holiday too, so feel free to park without dropping those coins. But hold your horses and be sure to read the meters; this free parking does not extend to all as the City's announcement cautions, "Other metered parking restrictions in Minneapolis may be in effect and subject to enforcement, including Park Board, University of Minnesota and private organizations that operate their own meters."

Public safety, however, is one realm that never dozes; the Minneapolis police and fire emergency services remain vigilant. 911 services will stand by, ready to come to the aid of whoever may find themselves in a moment of crisis.

As the Minneapolis police and fire emergency services remind us, according to their statement, "Minneapolis police and fire emergency services and 911 are not affected."