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This Friday marks a sad day in the Lindstrom business district. The Country Peddler will be closing its doors for good. The Peddler has been a staple of downtown Lindstrom for so long, I can’t remember it not being there. There probably aren’t too many homes around the area that don’t have some type of decoration that came from the Peddler. This week they are selling everything at 50% off. My tip to you is to go in and find something you want, but when there tell Anita what a great job they have done over the years and let her know how much the Peddler will be missed. Thank you Anita and good luck with your future.

On Saturday I would encourage you and yours to take in the Jake Westbrock Skate Park Benefit. Jake’s family and friends will be holding the event to raise money for the Skate Board Park Phase 2. If you were in Chisago City last summer, you know how great the skate park is and how much it is used by the youth of our community. There will be music, food, refreshments, give-aways and fun. The event will be held at the Chisago City Community Center, and will run from 6-10 p.m. It promises to be a great time.

If you have always dreamed about being a fireman, now is your chance. The Lindstrom Fire Department is currently looking for two firefighters. You must be at least 18 years old and have at least a Class D Minnesota drivers license. You must live no farther than five miles from the Lindstrom fire station. This is a great opportunity that rarely comes around, so if you are interested, you must apply by January 14. Please call Chief Sellman at 651-248-7421 if you have any questions. Otherwise, you may fill out an application at Lindstrom City Hall.

Last week we here at the Press had a natural gas leak. Just a day before the tragic explosion in Ramsey. Some of our employees complained of a heavy gas smell in the rear of the building. Luckily, we had a Christmas party planned, so after the gas company was notified, we went out to our get together. Thank God for our staff’s noses, because we easily could have had an explosion right here in Lindstrom.

When they say ring in the New Year with a bang, this is not what I had in mind.

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