For immediate release: February 20, 2024
Press Contact: Gail Barnard-Boyum 507-429-2464 / gbb@fopmm.org
Peterson, MN - Since its inception, Friends of Peterson (FOPMN) started on a journey to enhance the quality of life in Peterson, Minnesota, through a series of varied initiatives. Moving beyond the revival of Gammel Dag Fest, FOP has brought together community spirit, grants, and partnerships to launch projects that have significantly contributed to the town's cultural, recreational, and aesthetic appeal.
A Leap Forward for Peterson
Peterson, a serene and welcoming town in Southeast Minnesota, has always been a gem waiting to be discovered. According to the latest census, Peterson has seen a population growth from 199 to 232, marking a nearly 17% increase. Peterson is on a promising upward trajectory. "The state put a number on the sign on Highway 16, even higher than 232," remarks Gail Barnard-Boyum, City Councilwoman and Secretary of FoP, highlighting the town's growth and potential.
Website: A Hub for Creative Community Initiatives
The new website aims to be more than just a digital presence; it shines a spotlight on the unique efforts of Friends of Peterson, a diverse group of dedicated volunteers that work hard to seek grants and donations, orchestrating projects that enhance the community without relying on city taxes.
While fopmn.org focuses on the creative initiatives of Friends of Peterson, it complements the city's main digital hub, petersonmn.com, by highlighting specialized projects and community-driven endeavors, further enriching the town's online landscape.
Features of the New Website
The new website makes it easy to find out about the two big events that are well loved: Gammel Dag and Christmas in Peterson. It also shares stories about the good work volunteers are doing around town and offers a helping hand to anyone looking to get involved. “We're keeping the site fresh and updated, making sure you get the latest on what's happening, all while making things easier for our hardworking volunteers,” Boyum added.
Celebrating Contributions: A Nod to Civic Engagement
In the spirit of community, Friends of Peterson extends a heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers and contributors who have poured their energy and passion into enriching the community. Every hand that has helped, every idea shared, and every hour donated has played a crucial role in weaving the fabric of the community tighter.
Among these shining examples of civic engagement, is Andrzej (ahn-jay) Zalasinski, Jr. Since 2018, he has been instrumental in transforming the digital landscape and enhancing local events with his creativity and dedication. From breathing life into this new website to designing logos and marketing materials that capture the essence of Peterson, his contributions have left an indelible mark on Peterson and its events. “We're all incredibly grateful for the hard work and innovative spirit Andrzej has brought to our projects, showcasing what we can achieve together,” Boyum said.
As he reflects on the experience, Zalasinski noted, "It's been amazing to help shape the town’s online presence. This website is more than just bits and bytes; it's about connecting people and paving the way for an even brighter future for Peterson."
Closing and Further Reading
"The launch of fopmn.org is a big moment for us,” said Boyum. "It's not just about showing off Peterson; it's about bringing us all together, making it easier to share, plan, and celebrate our town. We hope you'll be a part of this journey with us."
For more insights into the initiatives and the evolution of Peterson’s cherished traditions, check out these articles:
- The Evolution of Gammel Dag and the Birth of Friends of Peterson: Read More »
- Enhancing Peterson’s Community with Creative Initiatives by Friends of Peterson: Read More »
These retrospectives offer a closer look at how Friends of Peterson has shaped their community's landscape.
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For furher information, please contact: Gail Barnard-Boyum, Friends of Peterson @ gbb@fopmn.org