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The stage is set for the annual Karl Oskar Days parade Saturday, July 11. This year's parade will include two marching bands and five musical floats among more than 60 parade entries. The parade steps off at 6 p.m. and will last approximately 90 minutes.

This year's Grand Marshal is Violet Norelius, well-known in the Lindstrom community and a life-long county resident. She served in county government in many capacities for more than 30 years, serving as county treasurer for 11 years. She also served as clerk of the probate court, deputy registrar of deeds, and deputy treasurer before becoming county treasurer in 1973.

In addition to the Chisago Lakes High School marching band, new to the parade this year is the Northwind Drum and Bugle Corps, a 30-member horn and percussion group from Duluth. Interspersed throughout the parade will be music offered by floats sponsored by Tortillas Restaurant, St. Bridget of Sweden, Chisago Lake Lutheran Musicians & Friends, polka music by Lindgren & Associates, and Lakes Area Sweet Adelines. Chuckles and smiles will be provided by annual favorite Powder Puff Clown Club.

The Karl Oskar Chisago Lakes Royal Court for 2009 will make its debut, and last year's Royal Court will bid goodbye. Honoring our country and all who served, color guard members will be provided by American Legion Post 272 and VFW Post 7267.

Once again, members of the River Riders Chapter of ABATE of Minnesota will be assisting with traffic management. The local ABATE chapter, a group of avid motorcycle riders, is known for its service to community through its donation of teddy bears to emergency responder units for children experiencing traumatic situations. This year, Chisago Lakes Rotary helps with parade line-up as a community service. Chisago Lakes Golf Course has provided carts for parade line-up officials, and Lindstrom Quick Stop has donated bottled water.

Financial sponsors of Karl Oskar Days events, including the parade, are Plastic Products Company, Wally Carlson & Sons BP Oil Co., Lindstrom Fire Department, Chisago County Press, Lindstrom Lions Club, Lindstrom Dairy Queen, Grandstrand Funeral Home, and The Picket Fence Gals.

Residents along the parade route have been notified of the route and its effect on using certain streets during parade times (between 5 p.m. and when the parade ends, which is approximately 7:30 p.m.) Residents are asked to plan ahead to avoid being inconvenienced during the parade. Additionally, the parade route and certain areas associated with the parade line-up will be posted with "No Parking" signs. Violators will risk having their cars towed to clear the areas.

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