On Dec. 30, the Star Tribune will publish essays about Minnesotans who personify the lives we lost in 2012, the inspiration they sparked and the legacy they left. We call them our "Northern Lights." Have you been inspired by someone who passed away this year? Please describe how they were special in 300 words or fewer and upload a photo at www.startribune.com/yourstories and we'll share the story of your "Northern Light."
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Special report: Go behind Minnesota's pro-athlete curtain to see how the best athletes in our state get ready for their biggest moment: gameday.