Ben Franklin going out of business

By Ken Johnston
Editor

Early last week Baudette residents received a letter from the long time owners of Ben Franklin store announcing it will be going out of business. As word travelled through that community it reached across the border to Rainy River and beyond via the internet.
Mike Hovde, owner, has spent more half his life with the business. “I’ve worked, been employed, managed or owned BF (Ben Franklin) for almost 24 years and I’m only turning 40 this year. Over 1/2 my life!” said Hovde on his Facebook page.
With BF being the area’s only remaining department store, it will be greatly missed by so many people. Not only did it sell everyday items like clothing and home decor, but became well known for its sewing and crafts departments over the years. In recent years sporting goods such as camping and fishing equipment were added as was a dollar section and some groceries.
Hovde told the Record via Facebook that, “Bottom line the main reason for the closing is the state of the economy. People’s shopping habits have changed greatly over the past year or two and it was becoming increasingly more difficult to keep the store open.”
The store was closed July 18-20th to prepare for the going out of business sale. It reopened Wednesday to a throng of loyal customers and some bargain hunters. The parking lot was overflowing with people directing traffic and there were lineups at the cash registers. “Wow! What a turnout on Day 1 of our going out of business sale!! Very sad day though. (We were) really touched by how many people came and talked to us in with tears in their eyes. But all of your well wishes, concerns and wonderful comments about our store really meant the world to both of us!! We love our customers and will miss them dearly!” said Hovde referring to himself and his partner Dale Bray in a Facebook posting Thursday.
The liquidation sale will see all stock sold including items they bought in anticipation of the upcoming fall and Christmas seasons. Also all shelving, peg boards and cash registers will be sold.
“We know it will be a big loss for Baudette as well as Rainy River and the surrounding communities. The hardest part of deciding to close was our concern for the area and our customers, as well as our staff. It was a very hard decision to make,” said Hovde.
As for the couple’s plans, Hovde said, “At this time, both Dale and I hope to find employment in the area so that we can stay here. We have no plans to open another business at this time and are looking forward to returning to work as employees, not owners! We have enjoyed our time as owners at Ben Franklin as well as the years we both worked there and will miss it greatly, especially our customers and staff.”
Many people could not believe the store was actually closing, thinking perhaps it was just moving. But Hovde said, “I’m a strong believer in fate...and everything happens for a reason. The store is closing...NO JOKE!! Shocking?? Yes! But for us it will be a time to move on...I’m excited about the prospect of a new career and a new beginning!! It breaks my heart that Baudette will be Ben Franklin-less, but I ask all of you to support us, and embrace change. That’s what will get us thru this.”
The couple also expressed a deep appreciation for their Canadian customers. “We would like to extend a huge thank you to all of our Canadian friends and customers in Rainy River and the surrounding communities for their support and friendship over the years.”