December 5th in Wanamingo, the streets were busy with people going from business to business to celebrate the season. Christmas in Wanamingo is a tradition started by the Commercial Club years ago, to kick off the season with some holiday fun! Many of the businesses were open, and people were enjoying everything from meatballs to cookies and desserts, to candy bags and even my favorite-- herring! We all had our "punch cards" to fill in by going into the participating stores and partaking of the delicious offerings, and saying hello to the owners. It was kind of like Trick or Treat, without the costumes! The punch cards were then turned in to the bank, and a drawing was held at 7 pm for the winners of cash prizes. The other drawing was for 3 mini water towers to help raise funds for the 4th of July fireworks. Tickets were $5 each, and I hope I won!
Some places I was able to chat a bit, and others I just popped in and took pictures of the fun, because there were so many people participating. I have been in Wanamingo for almost 3 years now and there are still places I haven't ventured in to, so it was fun to be able to introduce myself to some new people. I learned a lot, and can share a little about what i found out.
Jake's Liquor Store was first on my list. They have a huge selection of beer, wine and liquor to peruse. They also now have medicinal CBD and THC products from a local company called Hiza. The manager, Amy, has a lot of information on all the items sold in the store, and also has plans for a "farmer's market" in the spring/summer.
Next was River View Services. They have so much going on to help our developmentally disabled adults in our area. Home services like grocery shopping, cleaning, taking them on outings, and more. They run 4 homes in Wanamingo, 1 in Zumbrota, and 2 in Red Wing.
On to Blue Harbor where Terry Kane is having a blowout sale on her clothing. 60% off through December is what she is offering! Stop in and check out her holiday gifts, too!
24 Hour Fitness had a special visitor-- Santa Claus! He was taking gift requests from towns people, large and small! The big news here is that Tina and Brent Leininger purchased the workout center in August, and have any plans for the future. Be looking for an article with them in the near future!
New Life Church was at Area 57, handing out fresh donuts. Their message was, "Please come join us for our services. Everyone is welcome!"
Jim Swiggum wanted to say "Merry Christmas" to all of you.
The Spot was serving warm drinks and snacks to their customers, and has some ideas coming up for the new year.
And Beth was busy handing out her awesome holiday cookies and whiskey fudge to her customers at Flour Child Bakery. She will be open extra hours through December, so be sure to order your holiday treats soon!
And my last stop was City Hall where Michael Boulton and Karen Masters had a snack tray, and were answering questions that their visitors were asking.
All in all, it was a fun night and the weather cooperated. I think we should have more of these all inclusive events, and feature our awesome business owners for the part they play in our local community. It's a chance to visit with our neighbors, meet new folks, and have some outdoor fun! And, we get to help raise money for future events, too. That's how community should be!
Merry Christmas to all from the team at the Messenger!
