On Tuesday night, March 3rd, the Blakstad family farm home, south of Zumbrota, caught fire. It took 3 area fire departments, one truck at a time, entering and exiting the long, narrow drive, to extinguish the blazing fire. It reignited, early Wednesday morning and the firefighters returned to put out the fire! The home is a complete loss, as you can see in the photo. Fortunately, Eric and his dog, Spot made it out of the house safely and his daughter, Jenna was not there at the time, so was spared the horror of it all!

This family has an immediate need for all the basics. Right now, the best way to help them is by donating money. They are currently staying with Eric’s mom, Judy Blakstad (retired Zumbrota & PI teacher), in town. But, they lost EVERYTHING! The funds will be used to help pay for the  basics that are too numerous to count. Please give, even the smallest amount.

There have been many people in our area communities (Zumbrota, Pine Island, Oronoco, Wanamingo) asking how they can help. CLICK HERE for the best way. Let’s see if our small communities can come-together to make, or  break, this goal! Thank you!

Sue Sauter, family friend/retired PI teacher

Another way to help is by sending a check to the Bank of Zumbrota, please write”Eric Blakstad Benefit Account” on the memo line.