2014 Vol. 8 issue 6 November - Laserfiche WebLink

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Gem Lake News Page 5 of 6 The Country Lounge: Celebrating 50 Years of Friendly Times in Gem Lake The place has a "small town bar atmosphere with great regulars," said one fan of Gem Lake's oldest watering hole, the Country Lounge. "It's like visiting family." The Country Lounge, which is located at 3590 Hoffman Road, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The cozy neighborhood bar is located next to White Bear Floral and is owned by John Birkeland. According to the manager of the bar, Laurel Amlee, the Country Lounge has remained popular due to the number of special, fun events that it hosts regularly. This includes costume parties, live music, pig roasts, etc. The Country Lounge has been in business since 1964. Prior to that, the original bar was called the Burlap Lounge. It was owned by John's father Art and was remarkable because it had a dirt floor. The 50th Anniversary Party for the bar was a big deal for patrons. “It was really special." Laurel has managed the bar for 8 years and started working there 4 years earlier as a part- time bartender. "I would describe us as a 'working man's bar. We are open until 2 a.m. We get a lot of people coming off of work, neighborhood people and a lot of regulars. I would say our busiest time is between 5-9 p.m. Laurel says the regular traffic results from creating a friendly atmosphere and always having something fun or special going on. For instance, on football Sundays, there are often special menus. On a recent Sunday, when the Vikings were playing the Green Bay Packers, the Country Lounge got into the spirit by serving Tater Top Hot Dish and cheese soup. "Once a month, at least, we try to do something different or special. This month we are holding a benefit on December 21 for an employee who recently lost a brother. The money raised will help the family with final expenses," says Laurel. "In January, we are doing an ice fishing contest that will involve chili and prizes." Then there are the regular events, such as meat raffles on Friday nights and Bingo every Saturday. In addition to loyal customers, Laurel credits bar owner John Birkeland as "the driving force behind our efforts. In the twelve years I have worked there, he has supported everything I have asked him to do. For instance, we have free pool tables five days a week, who else does that?" (There is a charge on Fridays and Saturdays.) Laurel believes in using social media to promote the bar on line, so the Country Lounge does have a Facebook page. Check it out!