News Briefs

• HOLE IN THE WALL RESTAURANT CLOSES -- Saturday was the last servings to be handled by the well known restaurant whose origins were on Main Street in Perry. The closing has been attributed to the Covid-19 and it is hoped that they will be able to re-open at some point in the future. The family's sister business, Ration Wine Bar will remain open 7 days a week except Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Brunch is served there on Sundays. Check their Facebook page for further details.
• RESERVATIONS & MASKS REQUIRED FOR CHRISTMAS EVE at Perry First United Methodist Church, 35 Covington St., Perry. There are two services: one at 4 pm with Silver Lake resident Joanne Brocklehurst at the pipe organ, and 7 pm with Silver Lake resident and former pastor Greg Franklin at the piano. Call in your reservation at 237-5369 so your name can be posted on the pew. Individuals and family units will be seated at the appropriate and safe distance between. Masks should be worn from the time you leave your vehicle until you return to it, and worn throughout the service to enable full participation.
• BIBLE SURVIVES DEADLIEST FIRE IN US HISTORY -- Bible found opened to Psalm 106 and 107, one of the few objects to survive deadliest fire in US history. On the night of Oct. 8, 1871, a rapidly approaching fire engulfed the small town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin, a lumber boomtown in America's dairy-land. The blaze tore through the town at an astonishing pace, spreading hellish flames and plumes of thick smoke. According to historical accounts, horrific sounds filled the air under an ominous orange sky that night as chaos ensued.