Friday, April 28, 2006

April 28, 2006 - Friday

SKEETERVILLE GAZETTE

04/28/06 FRIDAY
EARLY EDITION
----------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you by Brekke's Hallmark Shop.
----------------------
The current temperature is 53 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 68/35
Normal H/L temp for this date is 61/36
The weather the past couple days have been favorable for additional
field work throughout the area. Time will tell if the light rain
forecast in the next 36 hours will have a significant impact on
planting.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
I found Thursday morning coffee at Granny's considerably different
than normal. First of all, Granny's opened at 6:00 AM that's 10 or 15
minutes earlier (different) than normal. Then too, we found out, the
front door had been left unlocked all night. That isn't normal either.
As we, Jerry Raumin, Roger Stark, & Richard Thompson and myself, walked
in and sat down we told Norma we would have "the usual", that part was
normal. We also covered the normal, "weather sure is nice" and everyone
wondered if and when it was going to rain, and, then came the different
than normal part.
As more and more guys came in, the conversation would switch from
Georgette LaHaise and her recent funeral, to Lee Almen and when and
where her funeral would be. Then someone mentioned that there would be
three funerals Friday. Someone said, three?, Harley's is at 2:00 and
Lee's is 7:00. Who's the third one? Connie someone said, remember Connie
from Wally's and Vally-Jo's. Her funeral is Friday morning.
Then someone said that Jim Midgarden was finally starting to get better
and he would be home soon. That was fallowed by someone wondering how
Hank Martens was doing after his encounter with a surgical medical
plumber. Just then he walked in looking good and feeling better,
according to him.
Next Billy mention Aurel had fallen the day before and wondered how he
was doing. Yup, a couple minutes later, Aurel walked in, almost, without
a limp.
In case you've missed the point, with the exception of a casual mention
of the weather. The entire morning conversation was about people. True
concern for the well being of those that make up "our" little corner of
the world. Those who have recently left this world for a better place,
and those that will stay behind to work on improving it even more.
I left Granny's this morning with a really wonderful feeling that the
people I break bread with, truely do understand and practice the
philosophy of empathy.
+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + When I returned home
and turned on my computer I was greeted by another pleasant surprise. I
had received a note from Bill Kingsbury. He was responding to something
I had written earlier about his father Harley. I was especially pleased
because I know at a time like this, there are dozens of things running
through ones mind, and, that taking the time to respond to a simple note
in the midst of it, certainly shouldn't nor couldn't be expected. Yet,
Bill did, and given the time and circumstances, Bill's note meant more
to me than if he had written a full page letter. He simply said,
"thanks" Bill.
I should add, that Bill actually did telephone me earlier and we did
speak about his father then too. He shared with me the specifics of
Harleys funeral arraignments. He also asked if I would convey the
Kingsbury families appreciation and gratitude to everyone and thank them
for all their acts of kindness.
+ + + + + + + + + + + + +
Later on Thursday, Pat and I went for a ride. As I approached the
intersection of Hill Avenue and 12th street I was again moved by a sign
in the BP gas station on the corner. "HOLY SMOKERS", was my first words.
Followed by, "I'll be darned, do you see that sign Pat?" Then I turned
the corner and spent the next several blocks thinking about what I had
just seen. I pulled over for a minute and wondered, Would I, or could I,
ever expect to see such a thing anywhere else.
Then I thought of "our" discussions at Granny's, and then the sign
again. I said to Pat. "That has to be one of the nicest, most
compassionate roadside messages I have ever seen. (she agreed)
Then I realized, maybe, a stranger passing through town might not
appreciate that sign as much as I do. Only because they might not
understand the people it speaks of.
You see the sign say's. "Our deepest sympathies, to the LaHaise,
Kingsbury, and Jimenez families."
WOW I thought,... A roadside sign for the Kingsbury's, wouldn't really
be that unusual. After all, the family is not only prominent hear in
Grafton, but throughout the entire state. Harley and several members of
his family have been very active in politics both locally and in
Bismarck.
The LaHaise family too, is prominent throughout the area. They have
built, owned and operated numerous businesses and franchises here and on
Georgette's side of the family tree, the LaBerge's are equally prominent
and certainly as deserving.
The last name on that roadside sign is the one that separates "our"
part of the country from the rest of the world.
The Jimenez family. You see, Maria Concepcion "Connie" Jimenez was born
December 6, 1929 at Dolores, Texas the daughter of Juan and Antonia
(Sanchez) Jimenez. She worked as a laborer in the Sugar Beets and
Potatoes in the Red River Valley Connie worked at St. Joseph's
Hospital, the Dakota Supper Club as a dish washer, Wally's Supermarket
for twenty years and also Vally-Jo's food market in Grafton.
Connie's family came to Grafton as Migrant Labor to work Red River
Valley fields. Connie has never earned, nor has she ever has a great
deal of money. As a matter of fact, it's entirely possible that the car
she drove wasn't worth the price of a good pair of shoes.
Still and all, there she was, on the same roadside sign with the
LaHaise's and Kingsbury's. Time, space, and a lack of sufficient,
intelligent mental capacity keep me from writing all of the things that
sign says to me. First of all, what it says about the people that
actually put the sign up, and second, that it speaks volumes for the
people that call "our" home, Home.
I hope the Walsh County Record can get a picture of it and if we're
really lucky, Sue will write a story on it. One thing is for certain, it
is a story worth writing.
"Gosh I'm proud to live where I live. Gee, I wish everyone could. And,
thank God that the people that have come and gone before me, made it
just the way I like it."
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Wednesday, April 26, 2006

April 26, 2006 - The "real" Wednesday

SKEETERVILLE GAZETTE

04/26/06 WEDNESDAY
The "real" Wednesday
--------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you by the Ben Collins Home.
Graftons first apartment building.
--------------------
The current temperature is 56 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 63/28
Normal H/L temp for this date is 60/36
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
---------------------
Graftons city crews are out "spring cleaning" in full force. Street
sweepers are covering every street from curb to curb while the motor
graders are busy levelling alleys and anything gravel in the community.
The Park is already looking lush and most of the past winters debris
has been picked up and hauled away. The only remaining signs of this
springs flood threat is the two mounds of dirt on fifth street.
-----------------------
Although still in the "later" stages of rumor. The Grafton Drug Store
as been sold to two ladies (pharmacist's) previously employed at the Ye
Old Medicine Center in Park River. Rumor has it, Dan and Maryjo Lapp
have purchased property in Georgia and will be taking up residence there
in the near future.
Since it's beginnings, with William Fleming and Hugh Leweaux in 1890,
the Drug store operation has functioned out of it's present location.
Ras Hatelid purchased the drug store in 1900 and changed it's name to
Grafton Drug. I wish the new Grafton Drug Store owners the very best in
their new venture, as well as Maryjo and Dan in their new endeavour in
Georgia.
------------------------
I understand the Pizza Hut will open Sunday the 30th for all the help
and workers. And Monday May 1st for the rest of us. The giant Marquee
out front certainly doesn't give any indication one way or the other.
------------------------
The time to get a Legion baseball ticket is almost up. I must say, I am
pleased with the response the Gazette family has given to this years
event. I would like to share one interesting "tidbit" that happened the
other day in regards to this years Legion Baseball ticket sales.
I was heading for Alco in the Gem and as I approached the Select Inn
(formerly Super 8) I noticed a white van parked in front with all the
doors open. As I got closer it was evident that the van was packed full
of candy. I stopped behind the van as a man was unloading a bunch of
candy machines and several boxes of candy out on the parking lot.
I asked the fellow, if he had a sweet tooth, to which he replied "no
not really". Then I mentioned that I noticed his license plate was from
Missouri and asked if he sold a lot of candy in the area. He said, "I
sure do, it keeps me busy."
Then, I asked him if he would be interested in helping "our" local
Legionaires help "our" local Legion/high school baseball team by
purchasing a ticket. I'll admit I did have a little trouble
understanding exactly what he said, so I can't quote him verbatim.
However, It went something like,... NO, we set up candy machines in so
many places, in so many towns, that if we donated money to
everything,... we'd go broke. Now don't that just make your warm glow
cold?
As I drove away, I asked myself, I wonder what part that man and his
company plays in "our" community. Obviously, it would be in the "going"
part, of the going and growing Grafton.
----------------------
It's starting to look like the Westside Drive Inn will be serving Wagon
Masters again this year. The big sign is already out by the road and one
can see hard evidence of getting ready cleanup.
I'm not sure if there's a subliminal message in the advertisement for
help or not. But, those interested in applying, should do so at
Blanchards Chiropractic Clinic in town. Maybe that's cause folks always
get stiff during the first few days of a new job.
----------------------
The never-ending saga of the problems associates with border crossings
and "our" inability to understand the term "illegal" continues. Bert
Overland wrote. >>>>
Hi Gary,
The Incident you mentioned about what seemed a doctor that was
roughed up. Reminds me of the last time we came back to the U.S. from a
trip to Banf/Jasper Canada. We had a cousin and his wife from Norway
with us and they were never even questioned other than to show their
passports. My wife Kathryn and I showed our passports but they put us
through the wringer and about took our 5th wheel travel trailer apart.
We had no trouble with the Canadian authorities in, or out, but the
young U.S. Border Patrol can only be described as pompus--power happy
stupid. They must have found these guys in a "boys school". <<< Thanks a
million for caring and sharing Bert. I'll bet there are as many stories
like yours Bert, as there are "illegals" coming across the Canadian
border.
------------------------
I understand last nights Unity Medical Center Spring Banquet was a huge
success. The food, fellowship, and entertainment was wonderful. Most
important, was the fantastic show of support for "our" local medical
facilities.
Next year, one suggestion might be, to offer the entertainment portion
of the program to "local" talent. Lord knows there's lots of it around.
-------------------------
With deepest regrets I share the passing of Leota "Lee" (Mrs. Donald)
Almen. Lee passed away Tuesday in a Fargo medical facility. Anyone in
the area that owns or has held a golf club, is a aware of Lee's love of
the sport. Had she been able, she would have preferred dying on a golf
course. Though that couldn't happen, I'm almost positive Lee's heart was
somewhere between a tee box and the green when she left us.
At this point, services are pending with the Stennes Funeral Home in
East Grand Forks. I will share them when available.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Tuesday, April 25, 2006

April 25, 2006 - Tuesday

SKEETERVILLE GAZETTE

04/25/06 WEDNESDAY
-------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you by Leo's Heating & Sheet Metal.
-------------------
The current temperature is 41 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 49/30
Normal H/L temp for this date is 60/35
The forecast is for perfect weather to attend tonights Unity Medical
Center SPRING BANQUET at St. John's Parish Center on the south end of
Western Avenue in Grafton.
Super food, Wonderful fellowship and Great entertainment.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
Already most of the grounds throughout Leistikow Park have been mowed
and the Park is starting to take on it's normally beautiful summertime
appearance. I looks like someone forgot to take the holiday lights off
one of the evergreens on the north end. Then again maybe they left those
lights up for seed for next years promotion.
-----------------------
It's no secret that hockey and the Spoilers are synonymous. For some in
the area, the game of hockey isn't over just because the Centennial
shuts off the ice machine. Chris Larson sent us the wrap up of the
recent tournament held in Chicago this past week. He wrote >>>>
Team North Dakota made it to the championship game, where they lost to
Team New Jersey 3-2 in overtime. Team North Dakota had a lead of 2-0
late in the third period. GPR senior Paul Campbell did get an assist in
the game. Paul ended up with 2 goals and 3 assists for the tournament.
So, that wrapped up the tournament. Again, for those of you who haven't
heard...here are the scores:
Day 1 (Wed.): Team Michigan 4, Team North Dakota 3 (Paul Campbell scores
goal; Tony Kringstad takes loss)
Day 2 (Thur.): Team North Dakota 3, Team New Jersey 3 (Campbell gets
assist; Andy Petersen gets assist)
Day 3 (Fri.): Team North Dakota 4, Team Wisconsin 3 (Team ND gets first
win of tournament; Kringstad gets win)
Day 4 (Sat.): Team North Dakota 4, Team Wisconsin 2 (Two game winning
streak for Team North Dakota; Team North Dakota advances to Sunday)
Day 5 (Sunday): Team North Dakota 5, Team Pittsburgh 4 (Three game
winning streak for Team North Dakota; Team North Dakota advances to
championship)
Day 5 (Sun.): Team New Jersey 3, Team N D 2 (Three game winning streak
ends; Campbell gets assist in the game)
There's your Team North Dakota wrap up.
Chris. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing the recap Chris.
----------------------
Many will be sending cards and letters thanking the sand ranchers for
another 10 cent raise in the price of gas. It must soon be time for
Americans to stand up, and start walking. I firmly believe everyone
should start doing something to conserve that priceless liquid commodity
we call gas.
To that end, I have vowed here-to-fore to walk to the mailbox instead
of drive. I will discontinue warming up the cruiser,... as soon as it
warms up a bit more, and, Pat and I will not put the jeep in
four-wheel-drive, again, for the rest of the summer.
That, combined with driving slower when law enforcement officers are
visible, should save, more than enough gas to start the boat on a warm
day.
-------------------------
Am I the only one that thinks it's stupid to allow "our" Border Patrol
to beat the living beejeebee's out of a Grafton Doctor. AND, not
allowing a women that has spent more than twenty years in the states
going to school AND raising a family here, back in "our" country? While,
I might add, at the same time high powered politicians are beating the
bushes trying to justify the 10,000,000 (that's ten million in
Norwegian) ILLEGAL ALIENS presently relying on "our" government for
health care and likelihood. WHILE, those same politicians allow American
companies to move to Mexico for "cheap labor".
If the Border Patrol watching the southern borders are having trouble
keeping ILLEGALS out of "our" country. Maybe they should ship a few of
the boys that are beating the hell out of Grafton residents down here to
show them how it's done.
Of course that's just my opinion, and it's certainly not the opinion of
some,...obviously.
I'm wondering what part of "illegal" our lame-brained politicians don't
understand. If it is OK to allow several thousand "illegals" to
immigrate every single day across our southern borders. Why in heaven's
name are we beating the corpsuckels out of legal Americans trying to get
back into the country from a trip to Winnipeg Canada?
I'm starting to worry about the fish I catch this summer. Will I need
to prove they were born and raised in America? Then too, I wonder, what
would happen if I make a mistake and ate a Canadian walleye that snuck
across the line at night?
I am certainly not against migrants, immigration, or anyone working in
this country LEGALLY. It's the term "ILLEGAL"
that makes the whole issue so silly/
-----------------------
This weeks Firefighter Calendar draw winners are:
4/24/2006 Karen Puppe $20
4/25/2006 Doug Demers $20
4/26/2006 Michele Petron $20
4/27/2006 Lorraine Narloch $20
4/28/2006 Rosanna Credit $20
4/29/2006 Marlene Boulduc $20
4/30/2006 Neil Daby $20
Congratulations to this weeks winners. All names will be returned to
the barrel for next weeks drawing.
-------------------------
Speaking of drawings. I still have a couple tickets left for this years
American Legion Baseball program drawings to be held in may. Your $20
CONTRIBUTION also buys you 23 daily chances at $50 and 4 chances at
$100.
##################
It is with great sorrow that I report the passing of a long time
friend, Harley Kingsbury. Harley was the oldest active member of the
Gazette family. He passed away Monday, April 24 at Altru Hospital in
Grand Forks at the age of 93 years. His funeral arrangements are pending
with the Tollefson Funeral Home in Grafton. I will send them out in the
Gazette, as soon as they are available. Pat and I along with our entire
family, would like to extend our most sincere condolences to the
Harley's wife Annie and the Kingsbury family.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Monday, April 24, 2006

April 24, 2006 - Monday

Subject: SKEETERVILLE GAZETTE

04/24/06 MONDAY
---------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you by the founders of the Mid-Town
Motel
---------------------
The current temperature is 37 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 72/35
Normal H/L temp for this date is 59/35
The un-official Gazette rain gauge recorded .08 inches of moisture.
It's really not as cold here as it sounds,... inside.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
Saturday night was prom night in Grafton. While Pat and I sat at our
usual table at Marketplace on 8th, we had the opportunity to watch and
admire several of this years prom participants. The table just across
from us was occupied by three couples, and, several tables were set up
for just couples.
One of the first things I noticed was their behavior. Each and every
one of them could have given adults a lesson or two on manners. It would
have been difficult, if not impossible, to miss the girls hair styles,
and of course their dresses,... not just fancy, they were fabulous,..
fantastic and sleeveless, shoulderless, and some almost backless. They
were the kind of dresses my dad used to say that would "test a mans
ability to test a girls resistance."
Beautiful hair, fabulous dresses, striking accessaries and matching
shoes. Yup, that was pretty much the way all the girls looked. Almost
the same as I remember it when Pat and I were young--er.
Then there was the boys. Tuxedo's,... mostly black, but one young man
was wearing a white one and one was in blue. Nice haircuts, even for
this day and age, matching shirts, ties, and I think I even noticed a
cumber-bun or two. Then, as I was admiring one good looking young man
and how polite he was being to his date. I couldn't help but notice is
shoe's. This young man was wearing several hundred dollars worth of
clothing, and, BLACK & WHITE TENNIS SHOE's. Yup, I looked at Pat and
asked if she noticed then, (and she had) and said - to myself - well dog
bite my unit, ain't that just a question mark where an exclamation point
otta be.
Of course I'm just kidding, maybe even a bit jealous. You see, in "our"
day, wearing tennis shoes with a tux would have seemed "silly", or out
of place. Todays kids are much more confident in themselves and they
don't appear to have the need to impress anyone. Another thing I like
about todays youth. They are smarter than we were when we were young,
heck, their a lot smarter than we are now.
Anyway, I was pleased to see so many members of the next generation,
representing themselves so well, and,... knowing that they to think the
Marketplace on 8th was a great place to start out their evening.
-----------------------
Tomorrow ---- TUESDAY ---- Tomorrow
The Unity Medical Center Foundation Banquet is coming up Tuesday,
April 25. It will again be held at St.John's Parish Center here
in Grafton beginning at 6:30. Fallcreek, an excellent barbershop
quartet from Grand Forks, will be the featured entertainment. Anyone
yet in need of a ticket can contact me at 352-3300 or Christl Durand at
352-9372. Continued support for this fundraiser from Grafton and the
surrounding area will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Lynn Flanagan, UMC
Foundation President.
------------------------
I am pleased to share the latest report on "little" Ben.
Family and Friends,
Ben had his second cycle of chemotherapy on Friday in Rochester. He
received 3 chemo drugs infused through his catheter. Each of the drugs
took about an hour to administer. He handled it very well. It was nice
to have such a short stay in the hospital, as we were discharged at
11:00am on Saturday.
While in the hospital, Ben even got to see his "girl-friends". You may
have heard about the conjoined twins, Abby and Belle, from Fargo. We met
them and their parents, as our room was across the hall from them during
one of Ben's stays in the hospital. Julie calls the twins "Ben's
girlfriends". They are such sweet, happy, beautiful little girls. Ben's
third chemo cycle is scheduled to start on May 12th. That same day, Abby
and Belle are scheduled to have the surgery to separate them. We pray
all goes well for them and their family.
The ride home from Rochester was uneventful, as Ben slept most of the
time. Maria stayed with her Grandma and Grandpa LeClerc. As always, she
was having so much fun she barely had time to talk to us on the phone.
Saturday night and Sunday morning were tough on Ben. He had a tough time
keeping anything down. Even with the anti-nausea medication. By Sunday
afternoon, he started to come around. He seems comfortable now. Thank
you all for your continued support and prayers.
Thanks,
Chris and Julie <<< Thank you for caring and sharing. It would be
wonderful if "our" entire Gazette family could include Abby & Belle in
"our" prayers.
++++++++++++++++++++
Dan Gowan is another year older this day. It is the day he will
celebrate the anniversary of his birth. I have had the good fortune of
working side by side with Dan for a good many years. He would always
tell me what I needed to hear, not just what I wanted to hear.
Happy Birthday Dan Gowan, from a former fellow sugar tramp, and his
entire family.
-------------------------
I received the following note from my young friend Chris Larson. I
hope Chris will forgive me for getting it out late, maybe I can get him
to send us a rundown of the entire event. Chris wrote:
>>> Gary: if you would like, you could put in a little blurb from the
Team
North Dakota. Here's what I could put in:
Three young hockey players from the 2005-06 Grafton-PR Hockey team are
playing in what is the biggest high school hockey showcase in the United
States. The Chicago Showcase. Paul Campbell, Tony Kringstad, and Andy
Peterson are all participating in the Chicago Showcase. Team ND is
currently 1-1-1 through 3 games (one win, one loss, one tie). Their win
came last night against Wisconsin 4-3. Tony got the victory in net and
has played two games. Campbell and Peterson were both scoreless last
night. Tonight (Saturday), they will play Team Wisconsin again. It's
going to be another big game for these boys. Chris <<< Thanks a million
Chris.
--------------------------
Everyone has heard me speak of the Marketplace on 8th numerous times.
Some may even remember me writing about the Mid-Towne Motel.
It saddens me to include in todays Gazette, the obituary of Georgette
LaHaise. Who, together with her husband George and family were
responsible for many construction projects and improvements in Grafton.
Georgette J. LaHaise, age 80 of Grafton ND passed away on Saturday,
April 22, 2006 at her home in Grafton. Georgette J. LaBerge was born
Sept. 12, 1925 in Grafton, ND the daughter of the late Daniel J and
Emelia (Lessard) LaBerge. She graduated from Grafton High School.
Following her education she worked at the Great Northern Railroad in
Grand Forks, ND, the Paramount Picture Studio's in Minneapolis, MN, the
Grafton National Bank and the W.W. Reyleck's Department Store. She
married George LaHaise on September 16, 1952 in Grafton, ND. The couple
made their home in Grafton where they owned and operated LaHaise
Plumbing and Heating and the Mid-Towne Motel. George passed away on
October 7, 1995.
Georgette was a member of the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church
and Altar Society.
She is survived by her children: Daniel (Carol) LaHaise of Grafton, ND;
Bonita (Dr. Robert) McCartney of Denver, CO; Mary (Steve) Rudnik of
Grafton, ND; Thomas (Mary) LaHaise of Grafton, ND; Patricia (Donald)
Flood of Sarasota, FL; John (Colleen) LaHaise of Chantilly, VA; Jeanne
(David) Droske of Grafton, ND; James (Kim) LaHaise of West Fargo, ND;
Elizabeth (Robert) Dexter of Cedar Falls, IA; 23 grandchildren; 3 great
grandchildren; siblings: Dr. Wallace (Betty) LaBerge of Urbana, ILL;
Richard (Anita) LaBerge of Grafton, ND; Thomas (Millicent) LaBerge of
Staunton, VA; Frances Ensminger, Suzanne (Gene) Burns and Donald
(Colleen) LaBerge all of Grafton, ND. She was preceded in death by her
parents, husband George and an infant son.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, April 26th at 10: 30 A.M. at
the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church of Grafton, ND. Visitation
will be Tuesday from 4-6 PM with a Prayer Service at 6:00 PM at the
Tollefson Funeral Home of Grafton.
Georgette's dash is a mile long and she leaves this world with
wonderful memories of her, and, a fabulous family that will carry them
on forever.
God's speed Georgette and our deepest sympathies to the LaHaise &
LaBerge families. Pat & Gary Moe and family.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

April 21, 2006 - Friday

Subject: SKEETERVILLE GAZETTE

04/21/06 FRIDAY
----------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by Tom Ganyo and
Graftons beautiful Leistikow Park.
----------------------
The current temperature is 46 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 58/42
Normal H/L temp for this date is 57/33
Since the rain started, the Gazette rain gauge has collected .88 inches
of rain.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-----------------------
Stan Pastoreks crew moved a brand new salad bar into the Pizza Hut
Thursday. It's still possible the salad bar, and a house special pizza
can be ready by next Friday.
-----------------------
Rumors of house sales and new folks moving to town abound. The latest
"rumor" is the house on the corner of 5th and McHugh has been sold,...
again. I just heard yesterday that we (Pat and me) will be getting new
neighbors again, just down the block a bit.
If houses keep selling the way they have in the past few months, Wally
will have to convert his workshop into an apartment.
----------------------
It seems Rose and Howard Wendelbo were really, really busy bunnies last
Sunday. Jean sent the following. >>>
Gary - Just wanted to share my thoughts on Rose Wendelbo also. My
children also woke up on Easter Sunday to a front yard full of Easter
eggs. I had all 5 children and 2 cousins scurrying around the yard
putting plastic filled eggs into their pajama shirts and nightgowns. One
little guy even ran out in his boxer shorts he was so excited! (That was
Paula and Brad Pedersons son.) This is the second year Rose and Howard
have surprised my children on Easter Sunday. They are a wonderful couple
who are very caring. Thanks Howard and Rose.
Jean Jiskra <<< Thanks for caring and sharing Jean
----------------------
Speaking of wonderful people and how they are. It's been awhile since
I've heard an update on Nessa, "little" Ben & Maria, and, several folks
are wondering how Jim is doing.
-----------------------
I receive the following note from Rosemary & Gary Fisher (the Henry
Bolek and Fisher rest home Fishers) They wrote; >>> Gary,
Enclosed is $20 for a Legion Baseball ticket. Please put "Second Time
Around" name on the ticket.
Thanks for all the Grafton info and reminiscing. You've come a long way
with subscriptions since starting the Gazette. Leaving for "home"
the end of May. See you this summer. Rosemary and Gary <<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing. Ticket number 100 will go into
the drawing barrel with Second Time Arounds name on it, Courtesy of
Rosemary & Gary Fisher.
---------------------
Speaking of Baseball tickets, yesterday morning Pat and I stopped by
Grafton's Golden Harvest Jewelers. Gosh it's a beautiful jewelry store.
Anyway, as we were looking over the display cases, Jeff said, "I'm glad
you showed up, I want one of those baseball tickets you've been barking
about in the Gazette." Wouldn't you know it, I just happened to have one
in my pocket. Then, as Theresa Kalbrener returned with our freshly
wrapped gift. She said she would really like to have one too. Yup, I
just happened to have an extra one for Theresa too. The Kalbrener family
knows baseball better than I know the menu at Marketplace.
That's the way it works in small towns. I do business with them, and
they do business with me. AND, in this case, the American Legion
Baseball program wins too. Or so it seems to me.
--------------------
Speaking of small towns and things that are important. Lynn Flanagan
sent the following note we need to share. >>
Gary: Unity Medical Center Foundation Banquet is coming up on
Tuesday, April 25. It will again be held at St.John's Parish Center
here in Grafton beginning at 6:30. Fallcreek, an excellent barbershop
quartet from Grand Forks, will be the featured entertainment. Anyone
yet in need of a ticket can contact me at 352-3300 or Christl Durand at
352-9372. Continued support for this fundraiser from Grafton and the
surrounding area will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, lynn Flanagan,
Unity Medical Center Foundation President. <<< Thanks for sharing
Information on Unity's big event. Put me down for one of those
tickets as well Lynn.
----------------------
I am also very pleased to welcome three new members to the Gazette
family tree.
Shane Shereck, Bryan Hurst and Bonnie Mohagen have all asked to have a
shot at tolerating the Babble I call the Gazette.
Just in case you should get the idea that I "might" be a tad
opinionated. You will be absolutely correct. However, I am always
willing to allow others to share theirs as well.
----------------------
As a matter of fact. I just happen to have an opinion about about "our"
park board raising to cost of camping fees in Leistikow Park. Someone
help me understand the logic.
The board, according to the article, voted to raise the fees sighting
"rising costs" for electricity. They didn't indicate the rational for
the $5 "dumping fee" I'm guessing there was logic to that as well
although I'll be darned if I can figure it out. I don't remember seeing
a coin slot in the shower and rest room door, so I'm guessing that
facility will still be "open" for "outside" guests.
I'm wondering if anyone thought to ask questions like. What do campers
do when they come to town? How often, if ever, is the campground full?
Or, are the folks that visit "our" campground a benefit, or a detriment
to "our" community?
If rising costs are a concern, and certainly they should be. Why
wouldn't it make cents (pardon the pun) to put a toll gate in the Park.
The fact is, of course I'm guessing, that the maintenance and operating
costs of the park are up significantly as well, and, it generates zero
income.
To use the rational that "We didn't want to be the most expensive or
the least expensive. We feel we're right in the ballpark with the other
campgrounds in the area." begs the question. As compared to what? "Our"
goal should be to attracted people to "our" community, not price them
out by raising the price of a camper in a partially used campground.
Then of course theres that idea of being "right in the ballpark". The
fact is, the ballpark is way over on the other end of town. However, I
have tickets if anyone would like to support the Legion ball team that
is in fact, "right in the ballpark".
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Saturday, April 22, 2006

April 22, 2006 - Saturday

Subject: SKEETERVILLE GAZETTE

04/22/06 SATURDAY
----------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you by the C. P. Stone Furniture and
Undertaking Co. We give 10 percent discount on Library Tables and
Rockers.
Located on West 6th street. (1910 WCR)
----------------------
The current temperature is 37 degrees.
We can expect a high of 73 degrees today.
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-----------------------
With a little sun, a light breeze and a bit more heat, There could be a
lot more pickups parked in field approaches today.
-----------------------
Unity Medical Center Foundation,
====== SPRING BANQUET ======
& friends of the foundation fundraiser.
--- TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2006 ---
6:30 p.m. at St John's Parish Center.
Proceeds help to maintain Unity Medical Center's outstanding level of
care.
Call Christl Durand, 352-9372 for tickets.
------------------------
The mention of Kody Starks name in the Gazette the other day gave Susan
(Swartz) Shuley reason to send the following. >>> Thank you so much,
Gary! I printed it out for Kody so he could put it in his portfolio. It
helps us see that people really do watch our young people and how
important it is that they behave in a positive manner. Thank you so much
for taking notice. I start my morning with Kody as he is in my class at
7:45 every day. We have a lot of young people in our community who can
make us proud but people don't usually take the time to let them know
it. I read your e-mail about Kody to my class. He was embarrassed but I
wanted them all to hear it.
Thanks again, Gary!
Have a great day!
Susan <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Susan. It is true that
"our" community, every community for that matter, is full of super young
folks, doing fantastic things for their communities. They not only
should be recognized, they deserve to be recognized.
------------------------
With the passing of Margaret LaPlante, Kathee sent the following note.
>>>
Yesterday at work in my Wadena office I received an email from my
boss forwarding to me a message from the ND Supreme Court reporting on
the death of Margaret LaPlante of Grafton, the last shorthand court
reporter in the state. I take comfort in knowing that she will be
remembered by many in the North Dakota legal community as well as by all
of us who grew up in Grafton in the 50's and 60's. Kathee Carlson
<<< Thanks for caring and sharing Kathee. It's amazing how such a small
person can leave such a large impression.
-------------------------
I received the following update on Nessa Schrank from the Wendelbo's.
>>> They wrote; Nessa has been home for a week but still taking therapy
at our local hospital. She will be leaving on Sunday for Rochester and
will have her first surgery on Tuesday April 25th. Please keep her in
your thoughts and prayers. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing
Rose and Howard. We should be extremely thankful we continue to have a
local hospital for such needs.
------------------------
Friday I suggested it would be wonderful to receive an "update" on
Nessa Schrank, "little" Ben and Maria Wharam. As you read above, the
Wendelbo's covered Nessa's activities over the past few days, and what
we can expect in the next few days. Many of us have grown close to these
three young ones, even if it's only from a afar.
I also received a note from "Little" Ben's father. I must admit, I had
to read it several times, always, with a lump in my throat and a tear in
my eye. Can I share "my" note with everyone, I thought. Should I share
"my" note with everyone. Then I wondered, was there a way to "edit" out
the parts that I felt were intended just to me.
I decided the best way to share "Little" Bens fathers feelings
properly. Would be to share his message completely.
Chris wrote; >>> Hi Gary,
My name is Chris Wharam. I am "little" Ben's dad. I owe you many
things. First, a thank you. Your Gazette has spread word of my families
situation to far more than I could reach. We appreciate all the support
we have experienced, and I attribute much of the support to your
readers. So, thank you.
Second, I owe you an apology for not having sought you out at the
benefit to shake your hand and thank you in person. I am still amazed at
the outpouring of support we received at the benefit at the Marketplace
on 8th. The generosity of so many individuals and businesses made that
an event I will never forget. I wished I could have thanked each in
attendance, but with over 1,350 meals served...it just didn't happen.
The food was fantastic. What an event. Thank you.
Finally, I owe you another apology for not having kept you up to date on
"little" Ben's health. He is doing quite well. As I write, we are back
in Rochester for the second round of chemotherapy. Last week, Ben's
blood counts were low. So he received a transfusion on Wednesday...it
perked him up and he has been doing well since. He has lost most of his
hair, but he has not lost his appetite.
Thanks again to you and your readers for all the support.
Sincerely,
Chris Wharam
P.S. I would like a subscription to the Gazette. <<< Thank you so very
much for those wonderful words Chris. The small part that we were able
to play in the events of the past few weeks is infinitesimally small,
compared to "little" Ben & Maria's family. Please don't feel as though
you "owe" us anything. Allowing us to share a small part in your wee
ones lives is gratitude beyond compute.
I have always believed that the load one carries on ones back, is often
insignificant when compared to the load one carries in ones heart. You
Chris, and Julie are carrying a load beyond which most of us can't even
imagine.
We will be very pleased to include your family in the Gazette family. I
am also confident that I speak for the entire Gazette group when I say.
"We wish you and your little ones the very best they can be, with all
our love and prayers." Gary & Pat Moe and our entire Family.
----------------------
Speaking of family members. I am also pleased to welcome Doug Weberg
and Jim Almen to our group. Some of you will remember Jim when he worked
at Grafton Floral. That was back when gas was under a dollar. Maybe, if
we're lucky, we can talk Doug and Jim into sharing a bit of their world
with us.
----------------------
Thanks a million Marilyn Baumann for your contribution to the American
Legion Baseball program. Your lucky ticket number is 295 and will go
into the barrel before the first drawing. Dr. Harold Blanchard and Ray
Charlton have also indicated they will participate in this years
American Legion baseball drawing. AND, I might add, it's still not too
late for anyone to enter the Legion ball support program. Only $20 a
ticket.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks the read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Thursday, April 20, 2006

April 20, 2006 - Thursday

Subject: SKEETERVILLE GAZETTE

04/20/06 THURSDAY
EARLY EDITION
--------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by Gambles Store. The
friendly store, Graftons Shopping Center.
--------------------
The current temperature is 49 degrees.
Thursdays H/L temperature 61/42
The semi-official Gazette rain gauge registered .48 inches of moisture
Tuesday night thru noon Wednesday.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
---------------------
The Extra End appears to be receiving a face lift of sorts. Wednesday
afternoon workers were working on, and around the front door. Several
Kutz & O'Brien Plumbing and Heating trucks were also parked around the
back door. They may have been there, to make it easier for folks to
leave there, what they consume there.
----------------------
We took a trip thru Leistikow park the other day and noticed Bob Mlcoch
was working at cleaning up one of the north flower beds. Our community
is very lucky to have a person of Bob's caliber and talent lending his
talents and energy to "our" park system. A drive past Bob and Sharons
home on the south end of hill Avenue gives credence to that fact.
-----------------------
Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Jacobson together with Gambles president Wayne
Walsera attended Gambles 50th Jubilee Market in Minneapolis and helped
celebrate the golden anniversary of Gambles dealer organization. (July
14, 1983 WCR)
-----------------------
It really is wonderful when the mention of someones name in the Gazette
generates memories in others. It is even more wonderful, when those
folks share their memories. Such is the case with the following note
from Bill Haug. He wrote, >>> Gary,
As one of Gordie Stark's "40 & 8" Bell Ringers for all the years I
lived in Grafton (and ever since in Grand Forks), I often quote Gordie
for having used--if not coined--the phrase, "If I'd known I was going to
live so long, I'd have taken better care of myself!" The wit of
Gordie lives on!
Bill <<< Thanks a million Bill, for caring and sharing. My most
solemn memory of Gordie is the time dad and I walked into Fish's Variety
store and dad asked Gordie if it would be okay if he made a floral
arraignment around a toy railroad boxcar with 8 small horses and 40 toy
soldiers for a member of the 40 & 8 who had just passed away. I remember
watching Gordie walk down the center Isle of Fish's and with a trembling
voice say, "Bill, if you will do that, I'll give you the boxcar, horses
and toy soldiers."
Then, Gordie handed dad a red lionel train boxcar, and, with red eyes
and his checks still quivering, he said, "the other stuff is on the
other side, I'll get 'em and meet you up front." I remember as we left
the store Gordie said to dad, "sorry Bill, I guess I kinda lost it for a
minute."
As we headed back to the flower shop I remember dad saying, "he didn't
lose it son, he's one of the guys that made this country what it is
today."
Over the years, I'm not sure how many 40 & 8 floral arraingments dad
made, although I know it was many. One thing I do know, he never
finished one of them, without bowing his head and saying a little prayer
for the folks they represented.
Yup, memories are wonderful. More folks should share them rather than
bury them.
----------------------
The comments yesterday about young Kody Stark gave his mom reason to
share the following note. >>> Hi Gary.
A heartfelt thanks to you and Denise Sevigny for your kind words
about our son, Kody. Roger and I are extremely proud of Kody and his
brother, Ryer too. It's nice to know that Kody is appreciated -
thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Sandy Stark <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Sandy. I'm a
firm believer in the old adage, "if you hear or see something good about
someone, don't keep it a secret, tell the whole world," and that's just
exactly what we did.
----------------------
I mentioned the Wendelbo's joining the Gazette family the other day and
I included a "few" of my thoughts as well. Colleen wanted to share the
following. >>>
Gary, earlier this week you mentioned a very special lady from
Grafton, "Grandma Rose" (Wendelbo).
Yes she is very special for all the things she does for many people. We
all know what she has done most recently with the benefits in town, but
she has been doing many good deeds for a long time.
The Upper Valley Preschool is one that has benefited with many acts of
kindness. We never know when "Grandma Rose" will leave a care package by
the door -- sometimes mittens and hats for the kids, toys, costumes,
valentines, anything she runs across that she thinks we could use. We
have been very grateful for all of these things. Rose is definitely
deserving of the Citizen of the Year!
Thanks for letting me share.
Colleen Anderson <<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing. Isn't it amazing, how easy,
and, how much fun it is to say nice things about wonderful people?
----------------------
Speaking of wonderful people, I just received the following note from
our youngest daughter-in-law Denise. I seems she too has something to
share with the whole world, about the Wendelbo's.
Denise wrote; >>> Gary,
I just saw that our wonderful neighbors, the Wendelbo's, have started
receiving the Gazette. I just wanted to thank them, "publicly", for
helping to make the kids' Easter so memorable. All three of them were
thrilled to wake up Easter morning to find our front lawn filled with
Easter Eggs from the "Easter Bunny". This couple is absolutely wonderful
to have as neighbors. Not only do they think of our children often, but
also of Brad and me. Howard is so kind... when he makes his trip to pick
up lawn fertilizer each spring, he picks up ours too. We are so grateful
for these small gestures. They really mean a lot to us. You are right,
our kids do think of them as family... as do Brad and me. So, from all
of us here at the Moe household.... thank you Howard and Rose. <<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Denise. It's been said that
memories begin with a thought, then a word and finally an action. The
Wendelbo's not only think of words, they put them in action.
------------------------
Speaking of words, today is the day to say -- HAPPY BIRTHDAY Denise!!!
This is the day Denise (Barta) Moe celebrates the anniversary of her
birth.
Denise is not only the wife of our youngest son Brad. She is the mother
of our 11, 12, and 13th grandchildren. You might remember 11 & 12 are
the twins, Jadrian Faye & Tyler Kenneth and number 13 is Trevor Lynn.
I won't divulge her age except to say that sometimes, when the kids are
good, she doesn't look it. However, when the kids kids get really active
- and, that's most of the time - she does.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY - DENISE We love you very much. mom and dad Moe
----------------------
It's still not to late to get a Legion baseball program ticket. If your
having trouble winning the lottery. Give the Legion Baseball program
drawing a chance. One things for certain, even if you don't win your
money will be going to a super cause. You sure can't say that about the
lottery. I have thought a lot lately about the problems of selling
tickets. I have come to the conclusion that the worst part of selling
tickets,... is not selling tickets.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Wednesday, April 19, 2006

April 19, 2006 - Wednesday

SKEETERVILLE GAZETTE

04/18/06 WEDNESDAY
EARLY EDITION
---------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by Grafton Casket
Manufacturing Company. The areas authorized dealer for Aluma Craft
Boats. Come in and make your selection, before it's to late.
( March, 1948 Walsh County Record)
----------------------
The current temperature is 57 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was N/A
Normal H/L temp for this date is N/A
Tuesday was a bit cooler but no frost bite, and, no skeeter bites. The
only bite all day was the price of gas going up another dime, that was a
"nip" in the butt.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
The lights were on in Ekatta's, even the open sign was lit up
indicating there desire to have folks visit their place of business.
The electricians that were working and poking wires in, around, and out
of the former Penney's building a while back. Currently appear to be
doing the same thing in the former Hvidsten building on Griggs Avenue.
The large garage doors on the east and west sides of the building were
partially open and one good see "legs" scurrying around that portion of
the facility.
------------------------
A little field work has started in the area, with "little" being the
operative term. Both Harlan and Richard Thompson left Granny's early
Tuesday morning and were headed for the field. Richard left to watch
Chris plant Grain and Harlan to see the first small field of beets being
planted.
Jerry Raumin left a bit earlier than normal too. I'm guessing he was
heading out to watch everyone get started.
-------------------------
If someone is looking for a great place to live. Grafton just might be
the place you are looking for.
Our main street is busier know, than it's been in several years. We
have more places to eat, sleep and celebrate than any community between
Grand Forks and Winnipeg. Our community services are as good as any, and
better than most. Our people,... our people are top shelf, first class,
caring and sharing individuals unmatched anywhere.
We, are even learning, it's okay, to communicate our thoughts and
feelings with others. We are learning that it truly is easier to share,
when people care.
Yesterday I received a note from Denise that really made me feel
terrific. First because she was willing to tell the world something
wonderful about a member of "our" younger generation. As I read her
note, I was formulating a comment I wanted to share about the same
individual. Denise sent the following message. >>> Gary:
I'd like to recognize a young man who impressed me very much
yesterday. (Tuesday) Kody Stark brought a Red Wings hockey jersey into
my store sometime ago and asked me to add detail to it. He also asked if
he could buy our MN. Wild tickets for the Wild/Red Wing series. I said
he couldn't, because we don't sell them, but he could just have them. He
was surprised but gratefully accepted them. I reminded our son, who
lives in Maple Grove, to get the tickets to Kody's brother, Ryer. I
thought of Kody that weekend because Justin wasn't at the game and
couldn't give his dad a post-game report.
The significant part of this rambling story is what happened
yesterday. Kody came into my store with a delightful thank you note. He
had typed his sincere thanks on a page and added several copies of
pictures he had taken during the game. He also stayed and chatted for a
few moments and again expressed his thanks. It was a lovely gesture.
Because we are such avid hockey fans, we collect hockey memorabilia.
This thank you note will go into the mix.
Also, in your note today, someone mentioned the Chicago Showcase.
We were in Chicago with our son in 1995. While we were in Chicago, it
was on my husband's birthday or the day after, that the Oklahoma bombing
occurred. It's hard to enjoy watching kids play hockey when a tragedy
has occurred. It certainly reminds us to appreciate what we have.
I'm not usually so chatty.
Have a nice day.
Denise Sevigny <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Denise.
For those that don't know, Denise and Dennis Sevigny own and operate
Embroidery Plus in the 500 block of Main street in Grafton.
-------------------
I was especially pleased to read Denise's remarks about young Kody
Stark. Last summer Pat and I were eating at the West Side Drive Inn and
Kody brought out our order. We found him particularly efficient,
pleasant and his demeanor added much to our dinning out pleasure. His
honest display to serve and earn his salary was very apparent and a
trait others might well try to emulate.
We left feeling he not only had earned his tip, but also our loyalty,
to him and the organization he represented. A couple months later, as I
was having coffee in Granny's Kody and a friend came in and ordered
breakfast. I noticed how he and his friend talked and behaved like
perfect gentleman while waiting for their order. Then I remembered how
Kody had impressed us at the West Side Drive Inn. Then it dawned on me,
I had finally found a way to thank Kody, not so much from me. I didn't
think it was necessary for them to know it was from me. Rather I
thought, wouldn't it be great if "someone" would just buy them
breakfast, simply because Kody was and is, such a neat young man. Then
again, maybe there is something to that gene pool thing. I happen to
know most of the Stark and Mohagen families and Kody is extremely
representative.
------------------------
ANYWAY, I had no-more than finished my thoughts and feelings about Kody
and his family than I received the following message. >>> Hi Gary.
My name is Sandy (Stark) Wallner, Bismarck, North Dakota, (sister of
Roger and Steve, daughter of Gordie and Donna Stark) Sandy Stark has
been e-mailing the Gazette to me. Please add me to your e-mail list
so I can keep up to date on Grafton happenings!!!!!!!!
Thanks and have a wonderful day!
Sandy Wallner <<< Thank you for requesting the Gazette Sandy.
Please for give me if you find from time to time that I get a bit
emotional about the way your father collected money for the Salvation
Army. Or, for that matter, the myriad of things that diddle with the
middle of my memory bank.
The foundation of the Gazette is simply the exchange of thoughts,
feelings and ideas. I have said from the outset, If someone really wants
"the news", subscribe to the Walsh County Record and the Grand Forks
Herald. If your interested in Babble, and the exchange of it, your in
the right place. Or so it seems to me.
-----------------------
Speaking of Gordie Stark, the American Legion and the American Legion
Baseball program. It goes without saying Legion Clubs across the country
are struggling to survive. The Grafton organization, with the loss of
members like Gordie Stark is no exception. The Legion Baseball program
at one time was funded almost exclusively by Grafton Legionaires. Now,
with many of the real drivers of the club gone, and the club room as
well. It is necessary to sell tickets to raise enough money to "help"
the High school/Legion Baseball program continue.
To that end I am once again asking those that might feel "touched" by
the benefits the members of our armed forces have bestowed upon us. To
help them help our Legion baseball program continue.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. If you
know what I mean.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Tuesday, April 18, 2006

April 18, 2006 - Tuesday

Subject: SKEETERVILLE GAZETTE

04/18/06 TUESDAY
----------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by the organizers of
the local chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
----------------------
The current temperature is 51 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 71/44
Normal H/L temp for this date is 55/32
I received the first Skeeter bite of the season Monday afternoon at
4:37. He did get a small shot of scandinavian corpsuckels, a split
second before I slapped his drilling rig through his anal opening.
City of Grafton Spring CLEANUP.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
We received notice Monday of this years Spring Cleanup in Grafton.
I haven't quite figured it all out yet, but the flyer says "our"
cleanup dates are May 1 thru 6. I checked and that's 6 days. The notice
continues, "items MUST be put out by April 30th (Sunday evening)
Then it (the notice) continues, Beginning May 1st City crews will be
picking up items (check this out) ONE TIME ONLY.
If I remember right, I think I "might" have commented on the spring
cleanup policy last spring. If not, I'll try now.
Here's the way I see it. --- a bunch of concerned members of our
community sat down and "ironed out" the specifics. I'm guessing, all or
certainly most of them have access to a pickup, truck, or relative that
can, and will, haul junk for them. So, they picked a list of things that
looked and sounded impressive, and agreed, they would allow that stuff
to be picked up. Then, as good keepers of the city budget, they compiled
an even larger list of thing that can in fact still go to the same dump.
Except, this list of "stuff" has to be hauled out there by the bulk of
our population without "easy" access to junk hauling equipment.
I can't understand why, they would be willing to haul out old
furniture, but NOT branches. Old bikes, grills and metal but NOT paint
cans, or tires. They will be happy to haul away "our" old televisions
and humidifiers unfortunately, if we're throwing out any other
appliances, we'll have to hire someone with a truck to haul that, AND,
to the same place I might add.
Rats, I think I did mention something about this last year,....sorry.
-------------------------
According to an advertisement in the Record. Organization of a Veterans
of Foreign Wars Chapter has started in Grafton. JOIN THE VFW. Contact
Trueman Mattson Phone 587-W
(May 13, 1948 Walsh County Record) ---------------------------
Several folks have asked about the status of Ekatta's in the former
Nelson Drug building. The answer is, I'll be darned if I know. Some
times when I go by it seems to be open, the next time not. Yesterday
(Monday) for instance, it looked dark inside every time I went by, and
the open sign wasn't on either.
On the other hand, last night the open light was lit up in the cigar
bar window. I haven't seen Allen and Susan Taylor for several days. If
anyone should see them, tell them to get their butt back home. There's a
pile of people depending on them for employment.
----------------------
Yesterday I brought the motorhome to town, and it turns out, I was
thankful for three things. First, that it started right up without a
problem. Second there wasn't a sign of those furry little cheese eating
varmints that sometimes sneak into a vehicle while parked over winter.
Third, and this one I am really thankful for, is that I filled up the
fuel tanks last fall before I parked it. By the time we hit the road
with it this spring, that could mean I saved almost $100 buying gas
early.
I would like to say I knew the sand ranchers were going to raise the
price of the fluid they pump from under their camels pile of poop, but I
can't. I would like to say that everyone should have known the price of
gas would go up because we're burning so much of it in "our" war
machines, but I can't. I'd like to say that "our" politicians are
working "on both sides of the isle" to solve the energy crisis, but they
can't.
However, I can say that I will be casting more and trolling less this
summer so that the sheet heads from the sand dunes can have bigger tents
and more camels.
------------------------
This note is for all the area golfers.
>>> Dear Gary;
I have never contributed to your Gazette due to my lack of pertinent
information. But, I believe I have some good information for all your
golf playing subscribers. Hillcrest Country Club, (golf course) in Park
River opened for the season Monday 17th, 2006 for walking players only,
(at least until the course drys a little bit more!). I hope my
contribution was worth while. Thank you for the Gazette, I look forward
to reading it.
Chris A. Lipsh
President
Hillcrest Country Club Board of Directors <<< Thanks a million Chris. I
haven't heard anything about Fair Oaks Golf course yet but I almost sure
it too will open,... sometime. As for the nothing worthwhile to
contribute. If you've read the Gazette at all, you'll notice it's full
of not-so important stuff, more often than not. Then again,.. that's
what it's all about.
-----------------------
Speaking of hockey. I received the following "interesting" information
from cousin Jill. >>> Gary,
As always I enjoy receiving the gazette. Sometimes I know the people you
are talking about and sometimes I don't. Its always fun when you write
about one of our family members or something from the past, that I
remember. I have kind of a little tidbit for you. My son Nick is playing
this week in the Chicago showcase for hockey against other teams from
around the US. Team North Dakota has a team also. I was looking at the
roster and there are 3 kids from Grafton on this team, 2 of the boys,
Campbell and Peterson, their dads played hockey with Nicks dad (Bill
LeQuire) on the same teams as they were growing up. Also Rob Mihulka's
son Marc is on that team from RR and Bill played with him also. We hope
that their parents are in Chicago so we can see them. I just think it's
a small world these days when your kids play sports and you travel and
run into people from your hometown that you grew up with. In fact there
was a picture in the Record not to long ago of a 1971 Midget A hockey
team with these boys submitted by Fred Halliday. Makes you wonder how
many of these boys, now dads have boys that are playing
hockey.........thought you might find this interesting. Jill
Sevigny LeQuire <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Jill. Of
course I find your message interesting, and I'll bet many do.
Please let us know how "the teams turn out".
-----------------------
Speaking of Baseball. Have I mentioned this years American Legion
Baseball calendar draw begins in only 14 days. Not to worry tho.
Everyone still has plenty of time to enter. Please make checks payable
to Legion Baseball and send them ASAP. I did find a ball and bat Keith,
but I can't get it away from that little kid. And, I can't get the
little bugger off the ballfield long enough to knock on your door.
------------------------
This weeks Firefighters Calendar Draw winners are:
4/17/2006 Michelle Denault $20.00
4/18/2006 Andrew Moe * $20.00
4/19/2006 Vern Sander $20.00
4/20/2006 Mike Kenney $20.00
4/21/2006 JoAnn West $20.00
4/22/2006 Ken Hoffman $20.00
4/23/2006 Burrell Nadeau $20.00
Congratulations to all of this weeks winners. All names will all be
returned to the barrel and will have a chance to win again next week.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks the read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Monday, April 17, 2006

April 17, 2006 - Monday - First Edition of Skeeterville Gazette in 2006!

Subject: SKEETERVILLE GAZETTE

04/17/06 MONDAY
----------------------
Todays Gazette s being brought to you, in part, by R. W. (Bob) Levos.
Master mind of the "quality" payment system in the sugarbeet industry,
and, the first to initiate the moveable (walk like a duck) end-dump
concept for sugar beet pilers.
----------------------
The current temperature is 58 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 73/49
Normal H/L temp for this date is 55/32
The arrow on the neighbors weather vane is pointing southeast. That's
an almost certain sign it's gonna rain sometime.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-----------------------
Yesterday, along with being Easter Sunday, one of the most significant
and wonderful religious celebrations in Christianity, it was also an
absolutely beautiful Red River Valley spring day.
-------------------
Pat and I, as we have for several years, enjoyed Easter dinner at
Marketplace on 8th. Again this year Suzie and her staff provided a
fabulous buffet.
As I was filling my plate with turkey, ham, meatballs and all the
trimmings, I was mindful of the real reason we would partake in the days
nourishment. Then, as I sat down at "our" table I was reminded how lucky
Pat and I have been over the years. We were blessed this day, to have
several family members with us.
I couldn't help thinking of the other special events we had attended in
the last while at Marketplace. Also super events, I should add, benefits
for Cindy, Nessa, Maria and "little" Ben to mention a few. I watched as
Suzie greeted people coming in. Even though we were there early, I was
pleased the see, many of the same folks that had attended several of the
recent benefits.
Our granddaughter Crystal (Jeff & Yvette's daughter) was part of
Suzie's staff Sunday, making it even easier for us to enjoy the day. I
always look forward to a "holiday hug" from Rosalie (Kasprick) Hagen,
(Suzie's mom) and this year, again, she didn't disappoint me.
Gosh I'm glad "our" little community has a place like Marketplace.
Thank you Suzie, and all your staff, for providing a place for such
wonderful memories.
----------------------
Today is the day we put "Shivercity" on the shelf and begin the
Skeeterville Gazette. It is the first day the average LOW temperature is
back up to 32 degrees. Hence, we will exchange the frost bite
publication for the skeeter bite edition. It is also getting to be very
close to the time of the year when the largest, "almost" daily
publication of babble between Grand Forks and Winnipeg becomes "if not,
or when not fishing".
-----------------------
Today is the 63rd time Bob Levos has celebrated his first spanking. I
was reminded again this morning, C. G. (Gary) Fischer (of the Cashel
Carl Fischer family) hired me to work in the Drayton Lab in 1965. I
transferred to the Ag repair shop under Jack O'Leary, then under Bob
Levos as Agriculturist, and Senior Agriculturist and it was Bob that
promoted me to Agricultural Manager.
I learned much from all of them. The one thing I remember most, from
Bob was when he told me. "Don't forget, when you drive into a farmers
yard, you will be talking with a person that has spent his whole life
growing things. It's almost a sure bet he knows more than you. If he
doesn't", Bob continued, "It's your job to make sure that he does."
Which reminds me of Former East Grand Forks Ag Manager Dick Kelly. He
once said, "If your talking more than your listening. Your wasting two
peoples time."
------------------------
Rumor has it Country Realty has sold another house in town. The Bill
LaPlante, formerly Norris Sando house has a new owner. I'm wondering, if
anyone knows, who lived in that house before the Sando's.
------------------------
I am pleased to welcome Rose and Howard Wendelbo to the Gazette family
tree. Rose and Howard live across the street from our grandchildren,
Jade, Tyler and Trevor and sometimes I wonder if the kids don't think
the Wendelbo's are their grandparents. I know the kids think the world
of the Wendelbo's, and I'm pretty sure the feeling is mutual.
-------------------------
Almost a thousand baseball fans turned out at Chandler field to watch
the negro professional San Francisco Sea Lions defeat the Birmingham
Stars, another colored aggregation by a score of 5 to 4.
(Walsh County Record June 24, 1948)
--------------------------
Speaking of baseball, I still have tickets left for this years Legion
baseball calendar drawing. Please make checks payable to the Legion
baseball league put the check in an envelope and address it to me, Gary
Moe 764 Birch Court, Grafton ND 58237
then, drop me a quick note telling me your checks in the mail so I can
be sure and get your ticket in the drawing.
Tickets are "only" $20. There will be 23 drawing for $50 each and 4
drawing for $100 each.
Wally stopped by the other night and bought 5 tickets and as he so
often has, doesn't even want his name on them. Thanks a million Wally,
your contribution to Legion ball is greatly appreciated.
----------------------
( How bout if I say please, Keith?)
==================================
"GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH"
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Friday, April 14, 2006

April 13, 2006 - Thursday

Subject: SHIVERCITY GAZETTE

04/13/06 THURSDAY
--------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by Mary E. Kutz
Realty. They participate in Co-op Listing Service.
--------------------
The current temperature is 52 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 62/37
Normal H/L temp for this date is 52/30
Thursdays rain certainly freshened the air and washed the winter dust
off the grass.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
I'm not sure if it's just my imagination, or if the lighting in the
Grafton True Value Hardware Store has been improved. I noticed today as
I drove by on main street that I could see the gutters and down spouts
hanging on the back wall. If the lighting is relatively new, It sure is
a super improvement. On the other hand, if all those lights have been
there for a long time. I'm going to have to start looking up more often.
------------------------
Speaking of improvements. I notice in the last edition of the Record
that Chris Thompson wanted to donate $75 to "our" counties general fund.
Rumor has it, Chris' dad, Richard has also agreed to purchase a few new
items for "our" city police department too. Thanks guys.
--------------------------
During a recent visit to the Gazette library. I was reading the June
30, 1987 issue of the Walsh County Record.
I was surprised to find four (4) Realty firms advertising in it.
Country Realty, Mary E. Kutz Realty, Johnson Real Estate and Williams
Real Estate. Even more interesting, to me at least, was the fact that
those four firms represented 12 Brokers (salespersons). Even more
interesting than that, to me, is the fact that they - the four Realty
outfits - actually paid to advertise a combined total of 72 separate
listings. That same paper also carried 11 private or individual, real
estate for sale ads as well.
That's 83 separate listings in one edition of a 1987 Walsh County
Record. That's a significantly greater number of listings than one would
find in todays Record,.... I think.
Who said houses weren't selling in Grafton? I've heard tell, lately,
that some houses in town have sold before they are even put up for sale.
If anyone is thinking of moving some new mobile homes to Grafton. I can
tell them where they can find 19 super spots to park them. I'll bet Dick
and Marlys Anderson can too.
-------------------------
From time to time you "might" have noticed I tend to share my opinion.
No-one is more aware than I am that my opinion is just that. I encourage
everyone to share theirs as well. Who knows, we may even agree on some
things.
"The world is full of opinions. Unfortunately, it (the world) can only
be changed, by those that share theirs."
If you would like your thoughts shared with everyone, I can do that. If
you prefer I not share it with anyone else, I can do that as well.
I have lived most of my professional career with the following premiss.
"I may not always like what you tell me. I will, however, always
appreciate it." GLM
---------------------
I see the sand ranchers from overseas have dictated another hike in
the price of gas in the Red River Valley,... and everywhere else as
well. I looks like we'll have to find a "favorite" fishing hole a little
closer to the dock this summer.
-----------------------
As if they don't already have enough to do. Kim and Dennis Leclerc
dropped off a check today for a couple Legion Baseball tickets. Kim's
name and ticket number 91 will go in the barrel along with # 92 for
Dennis. Thank you very much Kim and Dennis, I wish you both the best of
luck in the May drawings.
-----------------------
Kenny Cox once said. "If you think a professional auctioneer costs
money --- hire an amateur!
Kenny was also the one, when asked by a friend if he could get a car
for cost, that said, "If you can't make money off your friends, you darn
(I cleaned that up for the clergy) sure aren't going to make it off your
enemies."
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Thursday, April 13, 2006

April 12, 2006 - Wednesday

Subject: SHIVERCITY GAZETTE

04/12/06 WEDNESDAY
--------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by Nygard's, Auto Body
Works.
Grafton's DeSoto-Plymouth Dealer.
--------------------
The current temperature is 47 Degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 64/40
Normal H/L temp for this date is 51/30
Only the remnants of the highest, coldest snowpiles remain in the area.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
The Park River, river, is starting to retreat and didn't spill a drop
of water in the Park.
----------------------
Country Realty has "another" sold sign on one of their listings. I
guess the Fliceks decided they wanted to live in the south end of town
for awhile. Their new house was once home to the Fingers, Blanchards,
and Fields.
----------------------
Speaking of Nygard's Plymouth-DeSoto.
Staff Sargeant Harris Nygard, son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Nygard of
Grafton has completed his missions in the European theatre, his parents
were informed in a letter from him recently. He has 54 missions to his
credit and wears the air medal with three oak leaf clusters and two
presidential citation ribbons.
(Thursday, April 12, 1945 WCR)
-----------------------
In the first Gazette reported baseball game of this year.
Mandt Rally Short as Minto Team Wins.
A rally in the last half of the ninth, fell short and Mandt was
defeated by Minto 14 to 12. Hiliary Shoults pitched for Minto with Joe
Lizakowski behind the plate. Ross and Harvey Tallackson pitched for
Mandt with Squint Daley catching.
(June 24, 1948 Walsh County Record)
-----------------------
This afternoon, Pat and I dropped off Kirmits check (won in the
firefighters calendar draw) along with the one I was lucky enough to win
in a earlier drawing, at the local Thrivent Financial offices. They will
be included in the benefit receipts of the Wharam and Schrank families.
I received the following note from Kermit. >>> Subject: Mange tusen
takk!
Thanks for your broker services........so glad the gift could be used
for another gift. Have a good day!
Kermit Finstad
1805 Biglerville Road
Gettysburg, PA 17325 <<< Thanks a million Kermit.
First of all, thank you for participating in the Grafton Area
Firefighters annual calendar drawing. I gotta think "our" fire-engines
run much better with the financial aid of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
money. For that "we" are very appreciative.
Second, to turn your winning check over to local area families in need,
speaks volumes for your thoughtfulness and compassion. I would like to
extend "our" most gracious thanks to Kermit Finstad and his entire
family for caring and sharing. I would also like to say, "Mange tusen
takk." if that's proper. Gary
----------------------
I always enjoy sharing new and additional Gazette family members.
Rosemary (Ebertowski) Rodgers also would like to share word of an
increase in her family as well. She wrote: Subject: Joey & Rebecca
(Rodgers) Thompson
To All:
Joey and Beck became the proud parents of their third son Tuesday, April
11, 2006. Tate Donald, weighed 3lbs. 5oz. and is 15 inches long. He was
born in Scotts Bluff, Nebraska. His grandparents are Danny and Barb
Thompson and Bill and Rosemary Rodgers. His great-grandmother is Junice
Thompson of Grafton. His big brothers are Ian and Logan.
Thanks,
Rosie <<< Thank you Rosie, and congratulations to all,.. now get your
butt to Scotts Bluff and spoil that little rug rat rotten.
------------------------
Speaking of the Gazette family, I received to following note from
Marcy, adding two new members. >>>
Hi,Gary My two sons would like to join the Gazette family. Rod
Gourde is a veterinarian in Saux Centre MN. He and his wife,Anne, and
their children,Jacob and Marissa live in nearby Albany,MN.
Mario Gourde is a firefighter and EMT in Aberdeen, SD. Please add
them to your family. Thank You, Marcy <<< Thank you Marcy. I
will be pleased to a Rod and Mario to "our" list. It will be great to
have a veternarian in the group. As Sami gets older he will probably
require the services of a Vet on a more regular basis.
As for Mario, Lord knows the whole world is short of firefighters and
EMT's.
--------------------
Everyone still has plenty of time to enter this years Legion Baseball
calendar draw. Oh, I'm sure the kids will be able to play ball with out
your help. Everyone doesn't have to have a glove, and, they can still
hit a ball even if it does have torn lacies.
Of course I am just kidding about that. I am not kidding, however,
about the fact that "our" Legion baseball club, just like many
throughout the country, can use all the help they can get.
To that end I am asking those "former" Legion baseball players, and
their fans. Please concider buying a $20 ticket for 23 chances at
winning $50 and 4 chances at winning $100, AND, a 100 percent chance of
helping "our" young ball players be as good as they can be.
Make checks payable to Legion baseball and drop them in the closest
mailbox. It is also a good idea to simply drop me a line to say the
"checks in the mail" so I can be sure the tickets get in the drawing on
time. Thank you for your support.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.

Wednesday, April 12, 2006

April 11, 2006 - Tuesday

Subject: SHIVERCITY GAZETTE

04/11/06 TUESDAY
LATE EDITION
---------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by the Salter Photo
Studio. I you want your colored pictures in black and white, Salters
could do it.
--------------------
The current temperature is 55 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 68/36
Normal H/L temp for this date is 51/29
The average low temperature only has to increase 2 degrees and
Shivercity will turn into the Skeeterville Gazette.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
Still no sign of Pizza in the Hut. They must have been serious when
they said it wouldn't open til the 28th.
---------------------
Happy Birthday John Tweten. I'm pretty sure, it was 54 years ago that
John received his first spanking..... I'm not sure how old he was when
that happened.
----------------------
Did I mention Granny's installed a brand new "open" sign in their front
window? It really works great to,....especially when they remember to
turn it on.
---------------------
I notice Reds Bar and Grill has an "open" sign too. Unfortunately, It's
a bugger to see it from the intersection of Hill and 17. When doing
business with someone requires extra effort, if the business doesn't do
it, business will get done somewhere else. Or so it seems to me.
----------------------
With Easter Sunday just around the corner. I suspect many ladies will
be shopping for new Easter outfits.
Check out The Squire Shop and Mary's Ladies Fashions in Grafton. If you
can't find a beautiful new Easter outfit in one of them,...your to darn
fussy. (I said that, not the folks from the Squire Shop or Mary's Ladies
Fashions.)
I'd be real surprised if you couldn't find a selection of super items
at "Stitches" or Embroidery Plus on Main Street in Grafton as well.
While your uptown, stop into Golden Harvest Jewelry. It's the neatest
little small town jewelry store you'll ever find,...and, in my opinion,
their all Wal-Mart competitive too.
------------------------
I sent out the Firefighters Calendar Draw winners after the Monday
night draw As I always do. This week I was pleased to see that three of
the winners bought their tickets thru the Gazette. Dianne (Molde)
Urbauer got the $250, Truman Thompson and Kermit Finstad both won $20.
Shortly after I sent out the winners list. I received the following
note from Kermit. >>> Hey, the system works!!!! Oh my gosh! My name
was drawn. Funny to
read it in print. BUT........please put it back in the pot! My Easter
Offering!!
It's been awhile since I've written....had planned to do so this week
and wish you a Joyous Spring Greeting! So HAPPY EASTER and may the daffs
bloom and the lilies blossom. We have had tons of daffodils, tulips and
forsythia blooming for a while. We've already had a taste of the 70s and
promised more like it this week. The flowering trees are showing up this
week. Washington, DC is almost past it's peak. Central Park in NYC is
just coming into its own and the joggers are out in droves. However,
on Friday last week, it was snowing. Go figure!! May 15th is the
deadline for planting any flowers and vegetables ....it's best to obey
that given. By the looks of the daily weather report in Grafton, it
looks like the long underwear may be shed by the weekend. Believe me,
Easter was a mighty special day when I grew up cuz it was, indeed, the
day we began to feel almost naked again!!!
Blessings all around.....even been talk of the Syttende Mai parade in
Brooklyn already! Uff da!
Ha det! Kermit <<<< Then, early the next morning. I received another
note from Kermit. It appears as though he not only stays up late at
night, he gets up early in the morning too. Anyway Kermit wrote: >>>
Broker Moe: I changed my mind about the big win.......how about YOU
designating it for a donation to a family or person that needs it right
now. With Easter hugs and Gratitude, Peter Cottontail
As the lyrics of composer John Bucchino states in his song "Grateful":
"Grateful, grateful, truly grateful I am…
Grateful, grateful, truly blessed and duly grateful." <<< Thanks a
million Kermit. I called Al Seiben (he writes the checks for the
firefighters) and asked him to send your check to me for your/my
signature. Your check, along with the one I received from a November
drawing will go to the folks at Thrivent Financial with one check for
Nessa's fund and the other for the "little" Ben & Maria fund.
I am extremely grateful Kermit, for your kindness and participation in
such a worthwhile cause.
+++++++++++
I am pleased to be able to share the following update on Ben. >>>
Ben Wharam Update 4-11-06
Family and Friends,
Just a quick note to let you all know that Ben is still doing well. Ben
will have his blood drawn and labs done today. At his last blood draw
(Friday 4-7-06) his red and white blood cell counts were low, but not
low enough to warrant a transfusion.
Ben seems to be eating a little less and sleeping a little more than
normal. But overall, he is doing pretty well. Julie and I are becoming
more comfortable with the "site care" and the shots we give to Ben
daily.
Finally, we would like to send a huge thank you for all the support we
have been shown. The only way to describe the outpouring of support is
overwhelming. To see all the people at the benefit in Grafton was so
neat. There are too many to thank individually, so thank you all. We
would not wish the challenges we face on anyone; however, we wish
everyone could experience the way we felt at the benefit. It was
fantastic.
Thank you,
Chris and Julie <<< Thank you Chris and Julie, for caring and sharing
your precious children with us. Please continue to keep us informed as
best your time will allow.
++++++++++++
I would also like to extend the same invitation to the Schrank family.
Nessa, Maria & "Little" Ben have taken up residence in the hearts and
minds of thousands. So too, their parents.
----------------------
I remember, during my days as a Boy Scout in the basement of the old
Catholic Church on Kittson and 7th street, thinking about Girl Scouts.
Back then it was reasonably innocent. Today the Girl Scouts is pretty
serious business, and, I find myself sharing the following note. >>>
Just a note to let everyone know that the Girl Scout Cookies have
arrived. The local Grafton Unit sold 232 cases (2784 boxes) this
year. If you still need some find your local girl scout and she'll be
happy to get some to you. <<< There now, even Father Garland would be
proud of me,... now.
------------------------
It saddens me to share the following message of a former Graftonite.
>>> Hi Gary: Just received word that Dee (Dolores Houska) Robinson
passed away Tuesday morning in Chandler, Az. Her sister Monica Groven
lives in Grafton so if anyone would like to send a memorial I am sure
she will be able to furnish an address to her family in Arizona.
Millie Sobolik <<< Thank you so much for caring and sharing Millie.
We would like to take this opportunity to extend our most sincere
sympathies to Dolores' entire family. Gary & Patti Moe
A short time ago I mentioned in the Gazette that Dolores was listed
with Lyndus Lundberg as co-valedictorians of the 1948 graduating class
of Grafton High School. It is also my understanding that Dolores has
been suffering for some time from the ravages of Parkinsons.
If appropriate, I would be willing to share any information regarding
Dolores with the Gazette family.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.

Tuesday, April 11, 2006

April 10, 2006 - Monday

Subject: SHIVERCITY GAZETTE

04/10/06 MONDAY
LATE EDITION
---------------------
Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by the folks at the
Rolling Pin Bakery. Formerly Tweet's Dry Cleaning.
---------------------
The current temperature is 56 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 57/32
Normal H/L temp for this date is 50/29
We have a 70% chance it will not rain tonight. The chances of not
raining tomorrow are a bit less.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
The windows in front of the former Penney's building have been covered
with paper. That would indicate something secretive going on inside,
but,.. we won't know that for sure til the paper comes down. It does say
"open soon" in a couple places so it won't be long and we'll all know.
-----------------------
The Marketplace on 8th will be open Easter Sunday serving from 10:30 to
1:30
Turkey, Dressing, Ham, Meatballs & all the trimmings, full salad bar &
dessert bar. Pat and I have been going to Marketplace on 8th for Easter
for the past several years. The food has always been fantastic and,... I
don't have to wash the dishes.
This year, when we go, I am going to make a special point to thank
Suzie and her staff for caring enough to share her entire facilities for
the family benefits of this past week.
-------------------------
Speaking of last weeks benefits, thanks Ray and Marcy Gourde for
sending money to help the Wharam and Schrank family in their time of
need. We dropped your checks off at Thrivent Monday afternoon. Thanks
also to Ray and Marcy for helping "our" Legion Baseball team be as good
as they can be. Ray, your ticket number is 89 and Marcy, yours is 90. I
wish you both good luck in this coming May draw.
-----------------------
It's still not to late for anyone to help the Schrank and Wharam
families, and of course it also not to late to enter this years Grafton
American Legion Baseball program calendar drawing.
23 weekday draw for $50 each. 4 Saturday draws for $100 each. You
can't win if you don't enter, and if you don't enter the Legion Ball
team may not be all they can be.
------------------------
I learned a long time ago the dangers of dabbling in politics or
religion. However, yesterday I did diddle in the politics of religion.
I suggested that the omission of two very simple words, "and Family"
would have meant so much to so many. Almost the instant I got home from
Granny's, I received a phone call. One I very much appreciated getting I
should add. The caller suggested that it is not the churches practice to
extend (in the bulletin) sympathies to anyone other than members of the
church. Or, family members that do not reside in "our" community. I was
told the office is so busy, they might not even have time to add "and
family" to the bulletin. It was even suggested that I try follow the
office staff around sometime and see how busy they really are.
Well,...maybe that's all true. I still believe when a mans wife die's,
the church bulletin should extend sincere sympathies to the man, and,
his family. Regardless of where, or what denomination they belong to.
++++++++++++++
Next I received the following note.
Gary
Just a brief comment regarding our St John's Church bulletin and
the Church's offer of condolences to the Campbell family.
First, I am certain that Fr. Tim and many other members of the St
John's parish family extended heartfelt condolences to the entire
Campbell family in person and in cards throughout the past week. You
are correct to notice that the message in the church bulletin applied
only to those family members who are currently registered members of St.
John's. As it is with any death of a family member, the bulletin
expresses their condolences only to the family members who are in the St
John's family. After all, the church bulletin is written for the
members of St. John's and we do not assume that non-members will read
the bulletin.
The entire family of St John's will miss Marietta Campbell.
+++++++
Next I received the following.
Hi Gary -- Just read your latest "edition" -- very good and timely,
as usual. I have just one comment regarding your reference to the
sympathy note to the Campbells. I'm sure that Father Tim, or whoever
wrote it, named the Campbells who are members of St. Johns, presuming
that most likely the ones who are not members would not have access to
nor see a copy of the bulletin. I just cannot think for a minute
that Father Tim is lacking in charity or kind feelings to anyone who is
in mourning.
I think it would be better not to print this, but use your own
judgment on that. <<<<
Thanks a million for the note. It is difficult for me to believe that
anyone, would extend sympathies to specific family members and
"intentionally" leave other family members out.
There is also little doubt, in my mind, and others as well, that
the omission of "other" family members was intentional.
I further believe that this specific topic was in fact discussed
"before" printing and it was decided, by someone, to omit Tom & Lori
because of there circumstance and rely on a "superficial" policy to
cover it.
For all of the reasons one could conjure up, in heaven, or on
earth. I can't believe that it was right in any way to eliminate the
words "and family" after Paul Campbell's name.
To use the "rational" that not recognizing other family members
outside the church, because they wouldn't see it anyway is certainly not
a valid excuse in this case, and, a poor one at best in any other. Of
course, I too believe Father Tim did a fantastic job of standing by the
family during these unfortunate times. Of course he also may well have
extended his personal Sympathies to each individual family member. That
unfortunately was never the issue. The issue is the simple omission of
two words in the bulletin,... and they are, "and family".
I have members in my family from several different denominations. It is
disheartening to me to think that when I die. Whichever church will have
me, will only recognize one specific congregation, AND, only those
family members that "happen" to live in town.
I would much rather read,...from whichever direction I go, Our
Sympathies to Patricia Moe and family. --- It just seems so
simple,...and, so important.
Or so it seems to me. Gary
------------
And finally, I received this note on the same subject. >>> Thanks for
saying what you did about the Campbell's. I thought we were beyond that.
Well, most of us are. <<< Thanks for caring and sharing and I guess I
can't add much to that.
+++++++++++++++
I find it absolutely mind boggling, that "my" doctor, a Legal
American citizen, can be detained and beaten for almost 8 hours, trying
to get back into "his" country from Canada. When millions of illegal
aliens are demanding that we allow them to stay. OR, they will become a
source we will be forced to reckon with. It is mind boggling to think
that Legal Americans have been sentenced to jail for "breaking the law"
by shooting one more duck than they are "allowed". What is legal,....
anyway?
-------------------------
Please welcome Mike Leighton and Rob Parsons to the Gazette family
tree. In the future I hope those requesting the Gazette will share at
least a small note about themselves. If you prefer I not send that
information out, simply say so and it will remain "our" secret.
Something as simple as a name, address and place of employment are very
helpful. Hobbies, travel and family information is also really
beneficial for the Gazette library.
----------------------
This weeks annual Firefighter Calendar Draw winners are:
4/10/2006 Trueman Thompson * $20.00
4/11/2006 Norine Prigge $20.00
4/12/2006 Kermit Finstad * $20.00
4/13/2006 Perry L. Cameron $20.00
4/14/2006 Randy Dahlen $20.00
4/15/2006 Rita Jehlicka $20.00
4/16/2006 Diane UrBauer * $250.00
Congratulations to this weeks winners.
Especially the three from the Gazette.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.


Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.