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The wait is over. The Chisago County Press held its annual Christmas Coloring Contest and we have chosen three talented youngsters. These kids clipped out a page in our Annual Gift Guide and put their own spin on Christmas. We have never had such a great turnout in any coloring contest before.

The winners are: Cianna Selbitschka in the 3-5 age group, Lewis Palmquist in the 6-8 age group and Lindsey Olson in the 9-11 age group. Congratulations to these children and thanks to the many who entered their pictures. If it were possible, we would have loved to award all the entrants a prize. If the three winners could please come to the Press to claim their $50 savings bond prizes, we would love to get a picture of you.

In this edition of the Chisago County Press you will find many holiday greetings from local area businesses wishing you happy holidays. We here at the Chisago County Press join them in wishing you a very happy holiday and we, along with area businesses, would like to take this time to say -- thank you. Thank you for all of your support over the past year.

We at the Press hope that we have served the public to the best of our abilities and we hope to continue to grow, making us one of the best local newspapers in the state. We would be nothing without you.

Also included in this edition we are proud to unveil another Winter Sports Preview. Our wonderful sports editor Dave Ambers, along with our correspondent Chuck Fitzer, have compiled informative stories about your local high school teams. You will find photos of seniors, a look at the upcoming season, a season schedule, and advertising from local businesses who support our teams throughout the year. I hope you take some time and give it a read.

If you will be spending Christmas alone this year, I have a recommendation. The good folks at First United Methodist Church in Lindstrom are hosting their 18th annual Community Christmas Dinner. It will be held Christmas Day and will run from noon until 1:15 p.m. Anyone and everyone is welcome to share a great meal and good fellowship. There is even transportation available to those who need it.

They are asking that you make reservations by Friday, December 21, by calling 257-4306. If you cannot make it to the church, if you call by Friday, they will deliver a meal to you.

The Chisago County Press is looking for an enthusiastic, self-motivated, honest team player to join our staff as a sales rep. Sales experience and knowledge of the newspaper industry would be preferred, but we will train the right person. Time management and personal skills are a must. We offer a flexible, fun work environment with a good salary based on commission with benefits available. If you would like to join our great sales team, please send your resume to: Matt Silver, Publisher, Chisago County Press, PO Box 748, Lindstrom, MN 55045 or e-mail to [email protected].

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