Stores busy just before Christmas

Local shoppers hurry to get last minute Christmas supplies

Some local businesses were very busy last night just as the snow was starting to fly. Groceries, Gas and any of those last minute gifts and supplies were in high demand.

Local Fareway employee Jakob McDowell  said they had been really busy. He stated the biggest reason shoppers were there was Christmas food shopping. The upcoming winter storm played some factor as well into the deluge of shoppers visiting local stores stated McDowell.

The Salvation Army bell ringers were on hand as well. Jimmy Lewis was ringing at the local Fareway. Lewis says he enjoys ringing the bell and found out about the opportunity from his church the Evangelical Church in Oskaloosa.

While I was talking with Jimmy, people were stopping by the familiar bright red kettle. As those that donated got a “God bless you” from Jimmy. Donations have been pretty good so far, and “people are giving what they could” Jimmy said.

Jimmy Lewis ringing the bell at Fareway

The local representatives of the Salvation Army would like to remind people that the money raised locally stays locally. 90% of the funds generated go towards local needs and emergencies, while the remaining 10% goes to the region to help our surrounding neighbors.

The bell ringers will be out Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of next week as the local chapter is attempting to make their goad set this year. If you would like to spend some time ringing the bell, call Jerry Morrison at 641.660.0173.