WINONA, Minn. – The folks at the Louisiana-based Lamar outdoor advertising company are either sympathizing or mocking Minnesotans with electronic reminders of the season. Or may it’s a kind matter of sharing hopes that spring is coming. Among rotating messages on Lamar billboards in Winona is a countdown to spring.

Sprouting from a giant snow bank. A cornucopia of spring blossoms and a countdown. Only 23 days of winter left. Or so proclaims the Lamar billboard at Westgate Bowl on Highway 61. Image: Steve Lunde