Wednesday, November 26, 2008

November 26, 2008 - Wednesday

Todays Gazette is brought by the myriad of things we all have to be
thankful for.
------------------------
The current temperature is 29 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 40/19
Normal H/L temp for this date is 28/12
It was 50 degrees on this date in 1962
There is a 70 percent chance it will not snow tonight.
=======================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=======================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-------------------------
HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, therefore, it is the season to be thankful.
And, with a little effort, some days more than others, we can all find
much to be thankful for.
-- I'm not sure if flu season has been "officially" declared in our
area yet. If it hasn't then Mother Nature has established field trials
for yet another crazy olympic event at our house. --
Mind you, even Mother Natures (MN) "new event" still provides ample
reasons for us to be thankful.
For instance. I'm thankful the hallway to our "library" is wide enough
so that two people, under pressure, can pass uneventfully. I am also
thankful our "library" was fully stocked with all of the appropriate
paper products, (thank you Mrs. Whipple) prior to MN's calling.
Also,... I am thankful that our cable system actually does have a few
channels without political pooh (pardon the pun) to watch between
sprints to the "library". I'm thankful for all the folks that sent
e-mails or called wondering how we were doing. I am especially thankful
that the other half million, or so, telemarketers didn't call,.... yet.
I'd even be more thankful if I could get the first half million to quit.
The past few days has also provided some very valuable knowledge should
we ever decide to remodel the "library". I've learned that "things"
would go (pardon the pun) a whole lot easier if the water closet,
charmin, towel rack, waste basket, wash basin and shower were all within
arms length. A challenge I'm quite sure any good local "Joe the Plumber"
could resolve.
And,... during our latest encounter with Mother Natures trials, I am
truly thankful that Grafton Radio Station KXPO AM and KAUJ 100.9 FM
cared enough to broadcast Mayor Todd Burianeks State of the City Address
this past monday evening. With the benefit of channel 3 television (KAUJ
100.9) in every room and a portable radio for the trips to the library,
I was able to hear the entire speech. - that does remind me that the
water closet could use a "quite flush" button. -
Anyway, and I say this completely devoid of humor and jest. "My" Mayor,
"Our" Mayor, The Mayor of the City of Grafton did something Monday
evening that most folks wouldn't do. In fact, Mayor Burianek did
something on Monday night most folks couldn't do. He stood up in front
of the whole world, certainly the world as we know it, and, he not only
told us how he sees our community today, whats even more important, he
told us how he sees our city in the future.
I have always believed that, "everyone is willing to tell you something
you want to hear. Rare is the person that will tell you what you need to
hear".
Mayor Todd Burianek proved himself a rare individual Monday evening, at
Marketplace on 8th, with his address to the Grafton Chamber of Commerce.
We can agree with him yeh or nea, but one things is absolutely
certain. Grafton's leader has told us where he stands and why, he has
shared his hopes and dreams and for those that need even more. Todd
bared a part of his soul. Who could ask for anything more?
Congratulations Mayor Todd Burianek, thank you, I would have enjoyed
being there to shake your hand after your address. Unfortunately Mother
Nature had other plans. HOWEVER,... I am extremely thankful that I can
share my thoughts with you, and, with all the members of our ever
growing Gazette family. Gary
-------------------------------
I am also very pleased to share the next note. All I ask is please
don't let Tammy;s kids read the Gazette today. >>>>
I just wanted to drop and note and let you know that I was very
impressed with our local Pamida. Last night I went in just to browse and
saw they had several Wii accessories so I inquired as to the
availability of the Wii console. I was told they were currently out of
stock but expected some on today's truck. I then inquired about the
price. They have them available for $249.99 which is the 5AM SALE PRICE
advertised by many GF merchants. How fortunate are we here in Grafton
that we do not have to get up by 3:00AM to travel out of town to receive
the benefit of the sale price offered as it is available to us today. I
did go in this morning and purchase my much sought after Christmas gift.
(Please do not tell my kids:)) Just another example of how we can meet
our needs right here in Grafton. I hope everyone has a Happy
Thanksgiving!!
Tammy Burns <<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Tammy. If you children find
out early,... it didn't come from me.
-------------------------
CORRECTION,.... I had the right Avenue, unfortunately, the wrong
street. Lloyd Sorenson ran the Texaco Station on the corner of Hill Ave
and 8th street.
(I could be wrong but I think gas is $1.78 in town today) Anyway Bob
wrote: >>>>
Subject: Gas price at Torkelson Standard Hi Gary, Your memory is
good regarding the price of gas you remembered but you have the
incorrect address for my father's station. The station was on the
northeast corner of Hill Avenue and 5th street (not 8th street). I
remember the gas price at 16 cents a gallon while I was in grade school;
probably late 40's early 50's. The gas prices here in the Twin Cities
ranges from $1.58/gal. to $1.70/gal. today depending where you happen to
live and/or drive. We seem to have the highest prices here in the
southeast corner of the metro while the northwest part of the metro
where our son lives has the lower prices. It has been as much as 20
cents/gal. cheaper in Buffalo, MN, where he lives, then here in Cottage
Grove, MN. It does not make sense to me as we have one oil refinery
within 2 miles of where we live and another one within 20 miles so the
transportation cost should be less to get the gas to us. Go figure!
Susan and I send our blessings for a wonderful Thanksgiving with your
family. We always look forward to reading the Gazette. We have
noticed when you have not been able to get it sent out and pray for you
and yours when that happens.
Bob Torkelson <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Bob. For those
"newer" members. Bobs lovely wife Susan is the daughter of the late Dr.
George and Eileen Countryman.
-----------------------------
I would be absolutely amazed if there wasn't someone out there
somewhere, more than willing to provide Heritage Village with heat for
another 27 years.
The 27 plus year old dual furnace has decided to "retire" and it has
been tagged to be replaced ASAP. Preliminary estimates are above
$3,500.00. Heritage Village is asking for any help anyone may be able
to provide in replacing this furnace in order to allow them to remain
open.
The members of Heritage Village would like to thank everyone for their
past and continuing support.
Checks may be made payable to "Heritage Village Furnace Fund" and
mailed to Heritage Village at 695 W 12th St., Grafton, ND 58237. <<<<
=======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
=======================
"If you simply can't find anything to be thankful for. You should be
thankful your not a turkey." 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, November 24, 2008

November 24, 2008 - Monday

Todays Gazette is brought to you by Graftons Most Honorable Mayor, on
this the day of his State of the City Address.
--------------------------
The current temperature is 31 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 44/24
Normal H/L temp for this date is 29/13
It was 53 degrees on this date in 1984
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-----------------------------
If you have ever seen the movie "The Wizard of Oz", then it is more
than likely that you too, were impressed with the production. You
probably asked yourself, who, or how do they do that? I'd be very
surprised if you didn't ask yourself how they trained Toto to do the
things he did.
Of course, if you ever did see the movie "The Wizard of Oz", I know you
asked yourself those questions,..... and a whole lot more.
However, the folks that attended the Grafton High School far off
broadway presentation of The Wizard of Oz certainly asked themselves all
of the above,..... and much, much more.
Of course every single person involved with the local Wizzard of Oz
project is to be highly commended.
Director --- Peggy Dahl-Bartunek and Assistant Director --- Kyla Fetch
must be specifically recognized, not only for taking on such challenge
but for carrying it out so fantastically.
The first presentation was little more than over when I received the
following note from Gloria. She wrote: >>>
Subject: school play
Gary, just wanted you and your readers to know what a wonder school
play that is being put on now in Grafton-- "Wizzard of Oz". All of
the young actors are doing a great job, delivering their lines
wonderfully and what beautiful voices they all have... The make-up and
costumes are great.. This is wonderful local entertainment and well
worth two hours of anyones time. Gloria Charlton <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Goria. I received a call
shortly after 5:00 (AM!!!!) Friday morning from Denny Schneider. I guess
he wanted to be "the first" to tell the whole world that he and Sally
thoroughly enjoyed the local production of the Wizard of Oz as well.
From that point on, for the entire weekend, it seemed everyone was
talking about "The Wizard of Oz" and how wonderful it was.
Who said you have to go to New York City to see great entertainment?
Who said there's never anything to do in a small town in America?
-----------------------------
Leistikow Park, is especially especially beautiful after dark.
+++++
Joe "the plumber" was in Leistikow Park over the weekend and set up a
shower for Santa Claus. Being the politician he is (Joe the Plumber) he
put a Kutz & O'Brien sign right along side Santa's shower.
+++++
Wally and a large crew representing the DeSautel's spent most of the
day Sunday setting up their large display of whimsical Disney
characters, among others, in the park.
-----------------------------
I know you will find the drive thru Grafton's Leistikow Park worth your
while. Drive thru often as there are new and different displays going up
in the park almost every day.
------------------------------
~~~~ TONIGHT ~~ TONIGHT ~~~~
GRAFTON CHAMBER MEETING
MARKETPLACE on 8TH
====== Key Note Speaker ======
~~~ Mayor Todd Burianek with ~~~
STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS
The State of the City Address can also e heard over Grafton Radio
Station KXPO 1340 and KAUJ 101 fm.
For those that have Midcontinent cable the State of the City Address
will also be carried on Midcontinent Cable Ch 3
--------------------------------
Subject: Heritage Village
Gary,
We are planning on having a Chili Feed along with a Silent Auction
sometime in January. Anyone interested in donating an item for the
Silent Auction could do so beginning now til Jan 1st. They may drop
these off at the Village and the numbers to call to drop off would be
701-352-3280 or 701-352-1207. Items may also be left in the front
entrance to the main Theatre Building with the name of the donor on
them. We check there on a daily basis and will get the items. The
proceeds from this event will be used for the preservation of Heritage
Village and Jugville.
The exact date for this event will be determined at a later date.
Thank you
Verna Sherek <<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Verna. Grafton's Heritage
Village and Jugville has grown quite extensively in the last few years
and offers it's visitors with a very interesting and comprehensive view
of the way things used to be.
=======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
=======================
"Noone will ever know what you "want" to say, until you actually say
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, November 21, 2008

November 21, 2008 - Friday

Todays Gazette is being brought to you by ------ The Merchants Hotel.
First class in all particulars. $2 per day.
Steam Heat Throughout
Cor. of 6th Str. and Griggs Ave.
Grafton, N.D.
G.W. McIntyre, ---- Proprietor
-----------------------------
The current temperature is 1 degree.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 22/2
Normal H/L temp for this date is 30/14
It was 60 degrees on this date in 2006
At the present time it is 39 degrees colder outside our front door,
than it is inside our refridgerator.
=======================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=======================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-------------------------
I believe it's fare to say that the benefit, held Thursday evening for
Henry Corneillie, was a success by anyones measure.
Even though the temperature on the sign of Choice Financial Bank
registered 6 degrees, and the wind was blowing strong enough to keep the
Stars and Strips standing straight out from the flag pole. Literally
hundreds of people attended the benefit dinner and bake sale at
Marketplace on 8th for the Corneillie family.
As Pat and I entered Marketplace we were greeted by Bill and Joyce
Kingsbury. I must admit I was impressed, not only because Bill and Joyce
were there greeting folks and thanking them for participating in the
benefit, but also because I recently become aware that the Kingsbury
family has been exceedingly generous to the Corneillie family, with
their time and resources, throughout Henry's illness.
We Thoroughly enjoyed our delicious turkey dinner in a room full of
friends and acquaintances. I was pleased to see so many Gazette Family
members there as well.
Thank you, everyone. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers, and thanks
to everyone for showing the Corneillie Family that so many, really care.
I would like to leave the Corneillie Family with one final thought.
"I have learned to appreciate
that the souls of our dearly departed
really never do leave us.
They simply take up residence
in our hearts, our minds
and our memories." Gary Moe
---------------------------
The price of gas dropped another dime in Grafton yesterday. The
numbers on the big signs say $1.88 today. That's pretty darn good, I
thought to myself, until I received the following note from Rick
Kettells. He wrote: >>>
Hi Gary,
I paid $1.69 for gas in Branson, MO.
yesterday. It amazes me the different prices that you see around the
country.
Blessings,
Rick <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Rick. If we could take a trip
to Branson, we could save 20 cents a gallon, and,... catch the Cristy in
The Morning show at the same time.
-----------------------------
Last night, after Henry's Benefit Dinner, Pat and I drove through the
park. We were really surprised how many additional "new" displays that
were set up in just one day. It really is hard to say how many more will
be put out there, but it could be several I'm sure.
-----------------------------
Diabetes is not a "modern" disease -- it was first recorded some 3500
years ago. The Papyrus notes of an Egyptian physician named Hesy-Ra
described a condition that resulted in the "passing of too much urine."
------------------------------
It continues to amaze me that the Washington politicians continue to
use the rising unemployment numbers as something we should be
exceedingly fearful of. YET, NO-ONE, not even our present
president-elect seems to want to recognized the fact that ten
million,... or more, folks in our country are here "illegally" and that
maybe,.... just maybe, those ten million plus folks "could" be
contributing to our nations rapidly rising unemployment rate.
Than again, maybe,... just maybe, those folks that are conveniently
ignoring those who violated our immigration laws to get here, are
planning on letting them replace the present UAW members....... Maybe.
-----------------------------
Did you notice one politician that was complaining about the way the
presidents of the big three got to the meeting by suggesting they we
"frittering" away money, actually was wearing a carnation on his lapel?
What's that all about?
=======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
=======================
"Knowing what your doing, is much more difficult, when you have to
explain it to someone else." 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, November 20, 2008

November 20, 2008 - Thursday

Todays Gazette is brought to you from the Henry Corneillie benefit
supper at Marketplace on 8th in Grafton.
Please plan to attend Henry's benefit. A Turkey Supper with all the
trimmings, tonight (Thursday) from 4:30 to 8:30.
Friends of the family will also be holding a bake sale during the same
hours.
If you are not able to attend the supper. Please consider sending a
donation to help defray the Corneillie family expenses. Donations can be
sent to the Corneillie Family c/o of Marketplace on 8th, PO Box 365,
Grafton, ND 58237
-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-
Henry spent his whole life on a tractor, tho those tractors were never
his own.
He spent his whole life, turning over the soil, tho he never
complained, he rather relished his toil.
Then the Lord called out, "Henry I need you up her, when you get here
you'll have your own personal John Deere."
When Henry left for that big farm in the sky, his loved ones and
friends all knew the reason why.
Henry earned a living with his back and his hand, and now he is
wealthy, farming the Lords special land.
--------------------------
The current temperature is 13 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 30/19
Normal H/L temp for this date is 31/15
It was 62 degrees on this date in 1908
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
---------------------------
If you are planning to attend the Corneillie Family Benefit Supper
tonight. Take a drive through Leistikow Park before you go home.
Although several displays remain to be set up, already a trip through
the park is a beautiful drive. I noticed last night there are a couple
displays set up that haven't been lit yet. I hope they will all be
shinning brightly by tonight.
After your trip through the park, take a spin by the First United Bank
located on the Developmental Center road on the west edge of town.
They've done a super job of decorating their trees out front. Then, if
you still have time, set your FM radio dial to 106.9 and go by the Jim &
Nicole DeSautel home on 15th street. I think you will find it worth the
trip.
----------------------------
~~ Speaking of "Worth The Trip". ~~
If your in need of furniture, or anything for your home. Stop by
Landowski Furniture in Grafton. They're celebrating their 6th
Anniversary with a Huge Storewide Sale.
If you live 100 even 150 miles from Landowski Furniture you can rest
assured.
~~~ THEY ARE WORTH THE TRIP ~~~
-----------------------------
Speaking of trips and costs thereof. Gas around town is listed at $1.99
on most station Marquee's. Some local stations are even giving an
additional 5 cents a gallon off for cash. Rumor has it a local bulk
dealer is selling petrol for much less than that.
If my memory is correct, tho it probably isn't, I remember buying gas
at Carl Torkelson's Standard Oil Gas Station on Hill Avenue and 8th
street for less than a quarter. Fifty years from know, I suspect there
will be those that remember buying gas as low as $1.99 in 2008 as well.
---------------------------------
Excess weight and a sedentary lifestyle are key contributing factors
for Type 2 diabetes. A healthy diet and regular exercise are important
preventative measures, and regular doctor check-ups are important.
------------------------------
I am pleased to announce that everyone in the area will be able to
hear the Mayors State of The City Address on the evening of November
24th. Our community and the entire area is fortunate indeed to have a
local radio station that works so diligently promoting our area.
Radio Station KXPO am & KAUJ fm manager Andrea Johnston shared the
following information regarding the Mayors address. She wrote: >>>
Good Morning Gary!
Let me confirm for you that Mayor Burianek's State of the City address
will in fact be broadcast live from the Banquet on Nov. 24th. We do plan
to air that on both of the Grafton radio stations (KXPO 1340 AM & KAUJ
100.9 FM). The FM signal is always the audio for Grafton's channel 3 so
the address will automatically be heard there, too. As far as time goes,
we are told his speech will begin "after dinner" so lets call that 7:15
give or take a few. I hope you have a great day!
My best,
Andrea Johnston, GM
KXPO & KAUJ <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Andrea. And thanks a million
for guiding your station and "our" area down the right path into the
future.
Your stations "Shop at Home" radio campaign, geared to include every
small town in the area is starting to reap many positive dividends.
======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
======================
"If the answer doesn't match the question. The error may be in the
question." 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, November 19, 2008

November 19, 2008 - Wednesday

Todays Gazette is being bought to you by, the Henry Corneillie Benefit
Dinner.
~~~~~ Delicious Turkey Dinner ~~~~~
===== with all the trimmings =====
Tomorrow evening from 4:30 to 8:30.
~~~ PLUS,... a fantastic bake sale. ~~~
The dinner, at Marketplace on 8th in Grafton, is $10.00 with all
proceeds going to help the Corneillie family defray the significant
expenses incurred during Henry's illness and subsequent death.
Organizers of the benefit and friends of the Corneillie family are
hopeful that a significant number of folks from the area will be able to
come to the Marketplace on 8th in Grafton.
If you are unable to attend the dinner and bake sale. Please consider
sending your donation to:
The Corneillie Family Benefit
c/o Marketplace on 8th
PO Box 365
Grafton, ND 58237
---------------------------
The current temperature is 30 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 32/17
Normal H/L temp for this date is 31/15
It was 58 degrees on this date in 1989
===========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
It's no accident so many profane words contain so few letters. They
are, after all, so much easier for the weak minded to comprehend. Or so
it seems to me.
===========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------------
There still is not any appreciable snow in the Grafton area.
Unfortunately, I cannot say the same thing about the amount of corn
remaining to harvest in the area.
-----------------------------
Quite some time ago, I mentioned that some folks expressed concern
regarding the status and maintenance of the statues on the Walsh County
Court grounds. I contacted county commissioner Ernie Barta relative to
that issue and at that time was told he would look into it.
I received the following note from Commissioner Barta within the past
few days. He wrote: >>>
Gary
Just some info on the courthouse.
Tuckpointing and cleaning and fixing the the outside of
the courthouse should be done this summer.
The crack in the poles and statues should also be fixed.
Monies will be coming from a historic preservation grant and local
match. It will be approximately a $77,000 project.
Thanks Ernie <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Ernie. Several county
residents have expressed their concern about the care and maintenance of
the aforementioned statues, and now as I understand it, they have a
satisfactory explanation of the issue.
---------------------------
~~ STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS ~~
The Grafton Chamber of Commerce will have a banquet meeting the evening
of November, 24th.
As I understand it, Chamber members are invited to attend the meeting
with the price of tickets for members being $25.
It's my understanding that non-members can also attend the banquet
however their tickets will be $35 each. I also understand that the
Honorable Mayor Todd Burianek will, be issuing a State of the City
address at that banquet. Mayor Burianek is to be commended for doing so.
It is also my understanding the Mayors State of the City Address will be
carried on both local radio stations ( I hope to be able to confirm that
within the next day or two) live that evening.
Wouldn't it be great, if the Mayor's presentation could be carried
over Grafton's channel three channel as well?
I strongly urge every Grafton citizen to listen diligently to Mayor
Burianeks address. I know I certainly will.
I am interested in hearing about our communities plans for future
expansion, as well as his assessment of the Marvins Windows housing
promotional program.
I'll be listening for a flood protection plan or, at the very least, a
proposal to implement one ASAP. I would like to hear that we have
finally come to some resolve to the numerous sailboat storage facilities
(empty buildings) in our community. I also hope to hear that members of
the Grafton City Council and members of the Grafton Chamber of Commerce
will work harder working together in the future. I'm hoping I might hear
that the stop lights on the intersection of Hill Avenue and 7th street
will eventually be removed permanently.
When everything is said and done. Our community is better off this year
than last. I know we are growing, because our growing is showing. After
all, we are the largest city "north" of a daily paper.
Or so it seems to me.
----------------------------
Subject: Johanna Green's birthday
Allen shared the following note regarding his grandmothers
"participation" in the Leisikow Park Decoration project.
Allen wrote: >>>>>
Gary,
Great news! The candelabra decoration that honors my grandma's
birthday has found its way back to Leistikow Park. Johanna Green will
be 103 on Dec. 17. Our family (the Tuckers and the Greens) have
always reserved "the second tree to the west" of the park entrance
because grandma can see the candelabra from her apartment in Hancock
Place. We hired Letter Perfect to create a sign to honor her 100th
birthday and Ann has updated it every year since for free. The sign
is ready but still needs to be put in place at the park. That will
happen very soon. We are glad that you and others appreciate our
effort to celebrate grandma's birthday by helping light up the park.
And knowing my grandma the way I do, I don't think that Jesus minds the
shared attention.
Allen Tucker <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Allen. And,... thanks also to
Ann McCann and Letter Perfect for helping all of us share in Johanna's
significant milestone.
--------------------------------
~~~~~~ IT'S A FACT ~~~~~~
Despite popular myth, diabetes is NOT caused by consuming too much
sugar. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder - the body's immune
system destroys the pancreatic cells that create insulin, which
regulates sugar in the blood. Type 2 diabetes (which constitutes 90% of
diabetes cases in the U.S.) is a metabolic disorder that usually occurs
later in life. It may be the result of heredity, lifestyle, or several
other factors.
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"The best way to get the right answers, is to ask the right questions."
GLM


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

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

November 18, 2008 - Tuesday

Todays Gazette is brought to you in memory of Henry Corneillie.
~~ THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20 ~~
Susie & John Corneillie, proprietors of the Marketplace on 8th, not
only have shared their wonderful facilities, they have extended untold
time and resources to help defray the significant medical expenses of
numerous citizens in and around our area.
This Thursday the citizens of our area will have the opportunity to
"return the favor".
The Corneillie family has incurred significant debt during Henry's
illness and subsequent death. Friends of the Corneillie family will be
hosting a benefit this Thursday, Nov. 20 at Marketplace on 8th. between
the hours of 4:30 & 8:30.
PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND: You will enjoy a delicious Turkey Dinner with
all the trimmings ---- $10.00 a plate. There will also be a bake sale.
(If you have bake sale items, they would be most graciously
appreciated.)
If you are unable to attend. PLEASE consider helping the Corneillie
family by sending your donation to,....
The Corneillie Family, care of Marketplace on 8th, PO Box 365, Grafton,
ND 58237
-------------------------
The current temperature is 25 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 25/11
Normal H/L temp for this date is 32/16
It was 62 degrees on this date in 1908
Those that do not believe Al Gore's recent discovery that the world is
warming. Should read the history of the Sahara Desert. Before the last
ice age, the Sahara Desert was a rain forest.
Then, a mere 10 or 15 thousand years later, when we started burning
coal to make electricity and heat our homes, POOOFFF Al Gore gets a
Nobel Peace Prize because the globe is warming up,............ again.
=====================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=====================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-------------------------
The price of gas dropped below the $2.00 level in Grafton yesterday.
It's hard to believe that $1.99 gas already seems cheap. And,... this is
as good a time as any to tell Ralph Kingsbury he was right. Gas actually
did drop below $2.
-------------------------
It might be logical to believe, that everyone presently driving a new
foreign vehicle, already voted for the demise of the US auto industry?
Certainly for the "big three" auto industry anyway.
--------------------------
A few more holiday displays have been added to the Leistikow Park
landscape. I notice too that the "spot" near the park entrance that, for
several years, has been decorated by Johanna Green's family in her honor
now has a new sponsor.
The new bridges installed this summer will also give the park a brand
new look throughout the holiday's.
---------------------------
Bert Overland shared the following thoughts regarding "Small Towns, Use
em or Lose em". He wrote: ....
Subject: Ultimate progress
Gary, reading the comments in the Gazette today concerning the plight
of small towns brings back thoughts of yesteryears. Everyone in a large
circle of miles came to Grafton to do their shopping for better deals
and for items they could not find in their even smaller towns like
Hoople, Crystal, St. Thomas etc.
But today with the improved roads and todays cars a trip to Grand
forks is but a short morning, afternoon or evening hop. Like the people
years ago traveling to Grafton they, and now the Grafton population
shop Grand Forks Walmarts, Costco, Shopcos and the like. I am sure all
the people in the Grafton area would prefer home shopping but economy
is their guide.
This is a nationwide dilemma that is hear to stay. I see it
taking it's toll on the smaller towns surrounding Spokane. It is hard to
watch this happen to you while on the receiving side. Think of the
celebration over their economic expansion. And new competition is
always a constant danger to them, the larger you are the more
vulnerable you become. It is now and always has been so. Years back
Auburn was the big center until Grafton with new settlers with new
ambitious Ideas and marketing took over and Auburn dwindled to what
it is today.
Bert A. Overland <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Bert. Often, I find, when I
look closely at large communities, I find they are made up of nothing
more than a whole group of small communities.
======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
======================
"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil, is or good men to do
nothing."
Edmund Burke


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

Friday, November 14, 2008

November 14, 2008 - Friday

Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by Doris and Bruce
Jackson proprietors of Jackson Bernina.
If it quit working, Bruce can fix it.
If it doesn't fit, Doris can make it fix.
-------------------------
The current temperature is 33 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 40/34
Normal H/L temp for this date is 34/18
It was 62 degrees on this date in 1939
I wonder if Al Gore has ever asked himself? If the big three auto
companies didn't melt the last two ice ages,........ what did?
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
---------------------------
I understand Grafton's annual "wine walk" Thursday could be deemed
successful on several counts. It was obvious, watching the Wine Walk
participants migrate from store to store that they were enjoying
themselves.
It goes without saying, at least in my opinion, that the management of
participating Wine Walk businesses were most appreciative of the
increase in traffic.
----------------------------
~ Congratulations Embroidery Plus ~
~~ On your Fifth Anniversary ~~
The Sevigny's have not only been providing the Grafton community with a
valuable service. They have also made significant contributions to a
myriad of local and area projects and fundraisers.
Their Grafton based Embroidery business can, and certainly should, be a
significant benefit to our local school system.
------------------------------
Speaking of Embroidery Plus. Marjie sent the following note from her
home in the sunshine state. Marjie wrote: >>>>
Good morning Gary,
Hope your eyesight is improving.
Just wanted to say Denise did such a great job describing her
business improvements it made me want to stop by. I would if I was in
the neighborhood even though I'm not a quilter I've done enough sewing
to appreciate a nice selection of fabrics.
Marjie <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Marjie. Embroidery Plus does
provide our community with a very valuable service. I hope our residents
support their business whenever and however possible.
------------------------------
Grafton True Value's brand new sign not only looks wonderful, it is
another visible sign that the business community of Grafton has
confidence in it's future.
Grafton's True Value store occupies the building that once housed the
W.W. Reylecks clothing department store. For a good many years, Ray
Carlson was one of the significant partners of the Reyleck's
organization. Ray's daughter Kathee sent the following note. Kathee
wrote: >>>>
Of course I always enjoy reading references to and stories about
Reyleck's. Thank you for making that sharing possible. I am excited to
here about the renovations to the old Reyleck's building and to know
that the present owners are taking good care of it. Kathee <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Kathee. Often, as I walk the
isles of the True Value Hardware store I reminisce of the days past when
Reyleck's was a prominent store on main street.
Today, I can purchase Sami's dog food where Murphy used to sell me
shoes. I recently purchased a coffee maker from the same area Dick
LaBerge sold me my first good quality suit. This summer I bought a blade
for our lawn mower from the same spot Richard Rheaume sold me my first
pair of coveralls. I've purchased several items for our motorhome from
the same spot we bought material for curtains in our first apartment
from Bella Durand. When I stand at the front desk of Grafton's True
Value Hardware, I'm often reminded that I am standing on the exact same
spot that 51 years ago, this year. I purchased the very last birthday
present I was ever able to buy for my mother. It was a bright and shinny
"costume jewellery" bracelet. One I might add, with special thanks to
Rosemary Ebertowski, our daughter will be able to cherish forever.
Aren't memories wonderful?
--------------------------
I have often said, "small towns, use em or lose em". I do believe It
really is that simple. On the other hand, I am very well aware that,
everything being equal. It really isn't that easy at all. It takes the
heart and sole of everyone in the entire community to keep a community
together.
"The key to success is not hearing what you want to hear. It's hearing
what you need to hear." GLM
+++++++
Ralph was kind enough to share the following note with me. I in turn
would like to share his note with you.
Ralph wrote: >>>>
You know how many say our small towns are dying. There just isn't any
business left there. Then people like your kids, and Denise and Dennis
open those shops. They need to sell what others like Pamida and Alco
aren't, but when they pick the right product they appear to be
successful. Just imagine the dollars that aren't leaving town, and the
dollars from surrounding towns that are coming to Grafton because of
people like that. You and Pat did a good job raising your family, Gary.
Ralph Kingsbury <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Ralph. I would love to be able
to take even a small amount of credit for the raising of my family.
Actually, if the truth be told, I have been extremely fortunate to be
able share the same household with my wonderful wife Pat, the person
most responsible.
======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
======================
"If you can think it, you can say it. If you can't say it, you
shouldn't be thinking 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, November 13, 2008

November 13, 2008 - Thursday

Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by American Food
Products Company. North Dakota's first potato dehydrating facility that
was housed, in the building on the corner of 4th street and Griggs
Avenue, during WW ll. That building is the very same one that Carl
Hvidsten sold his IHC farm equipment from.
--------------------------
The current temperature is 35 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 35/32
Normal H/L temp for this date is 35/19
It was 60 degrees on this date in 2007
We have finally started receiving the kind of temperatures that gives
some folks reason to go south for the winter.
That of course, is also the major reason why it is so peaceful and
quiet around here after the Christmas Holidays.
========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------------
Electricians from Rock Stewart's Rock's Electric completed the new True
Value sign on the former Reyleck's Department store building. It
certainly is a bright and wonderful addition to Grafton's downtown
business district.
----------------------------
Speaking of Reyleck's and the downtown business district. I received
the following note from Denise Sevigny, owner/operator of Embroidery
Plus in Grafton.
She wrote: >>>> Gary:
It is truly a small world. My new fabric sales rep (for the quilt
fabric division of Embroidery Plus) is a man who called on the
Reyleck's store for many years. When he was here last week, he asked
about Mrs. Collette (Elaine) and the guy upstairs who gave the final
approval on the order (either Murphy or Dick -- sounded like Murphy from
the "tall, slender" description). He related exactly where the fabric
section was located in the store and several other fun comments. His
name is Jerry Kjeldahl and he's been selling fabric for 40 years. What a
wonderful asset he will be for Embroidery Plus as we expand into quilt
fabrics and notions, books, and quilting classes.
It was quite a day! He happened to come on the same day that the
carpet we purchased from B&D Flooring was being installed. The carpet
looks great, and the remodelling is completed just in time for the Wine
Walk sponsored by the Chamber. Have you met the new chamber exec? She
stopped in last week. She seems very friendly and willing to learn about
our community. Of course her job is to promote "buying locally", but
that is also the responsibility of all the chamber directors and members
as we'll likely hear at the upcoming Chamber banquet.
Monday was a wonderful day because our first juvenile print flannels
arrived, and we put our first "Pride of Dakota" products on the shelf.
Although Monday will be our 5th anniversary, it feels as though we're
going through the start-up phase again with remodelling, introducing new
products, and just enjoying being business owners in Grafton.
I'm glad to hear you're feeling better each day. Take care.
Denise Sevigny <<<<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Denise. And thank you for
spending your time, energy and resources on a business in the Grafton
community. Thank you also, for supporting so many of our area functions
and activities. Denise, it behooves the citizens of our community to
reciprocate after witnessing your participation in local events. Or so
it seems to me.
-------------------------------
Members of the Leistikow Park maintenance crew started putting out the
parks 2008 holiday decoration presentation yesterday (Wednesday).
--------------------------------
"Be who you are and say what you feel.... Because those who mind don't
matter.... and those who matter, don't mind."
--------------------------------
For many years, certainly more years than I can remember, the annual
Reylecks spring and fall sales brought literally thousands of people to
town to participate in the savings as well as the festivities the sale
generated all over town.
The Holiday Fashion Show presented by the folks from The Squire Shop in
Grafton has also become a major annual event. A event folks from all
over the area look forward to every year.
I received the following message yesterday from Squire Shop
owner/manager Rita Amiot.
Rita wrote: >>>>
Gary,
Speaking of Christmas decorations, The Squire Shop always has the
trimmings up before our holiday fashion show. I have to say last
Saturday the town and a great many folks from out of town appreciated
the festive look and the holiday fashion show. It is good economic
development. Saturday the town was full of women shopping and enjoying
shopping in Grafton. Some even complained they had to park a long walk
from the store!!!!! Wouldn't it be great if it was like that every day?
Many tell me the annual holiday fashion show motivates them to get in
the holiday spirit. I hope our people continue the holiday shopping
spirit this season. Rita Amiot <<<<
Thanks a million Rita, for all of the hard work you and your dedicated
staff put into the Squire Shops annual Fashion Show.
Rita's annual Holiday Fashion promotion could well service as a
"Flagship" for the business community of Grafton.
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"It is not wrong to say what you think. Not thinking of what you
say,..... is." GLM


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

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

November 12, 2008 - Wednesday

Todays Gazette is brought to you, in part, by ~~~~~ The Chicago Store.
~~~~~
---------------------------
The current temperature is 32 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 33/17
Normal H/L temp for this date is 36/19
It was 61 degrees on this date in 1981
We have a 40 percent chance of rain tonight combined with a winter
weather advisory for the area.
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff
----------------------------
Workers from Rock's Electric have been working on the new True Value
sign on the front of Kerry & Carole Demars' Grafton True Value Hardware
store. The new sign has large white script letters that can, and will,
light up after dark. The new True Value sign puts the final touch to a
completely new facade to the building that still carries the name
Chicago Store on the front of the building.
In 1911 The Chicago Store was incorporated as the W.W. Reyleck Company
and a branch store was opened in Crookston. Over the years the Reylecks
Department store became well known throughout the entire area for it's
gigantic sales. Folks from 100 miles or more would travel to Reyleck's
annual sales.
------------------------------
The crater in front of Carl Hvidsten's former International Implement
Dealership continues to grow larger each day. Mike Kilmers giant 325 Cat
backhoe is starting to look small along side the cavern it is creating.
Every bucket of fuel laden soil being removed should be a sober reminder
of the significant importance of dealing with potential abandoned
property before it is "given" to the city for the nonpayment of taxes.
The last thing any community needs is a giant complex for sailboat fuel
storage.
--------------------------------
It was interesting to see the folks in the Leistikow Parks Campground,
"bank" their camper trailers with hay bales. Obviously, a few of the
folks working on the pipeline must be planning on staying in town for
awhile longer yet.
-------------------------------
Several stores have already decorated for the holiday season. Some
trees and bushes around town have also been decorated for the festive
season.
Jim and Nicole DeSautel's home on 15th street already has a large
collection of dancing lights. It appears that the DeSautel music and
light show will be even bigger and better than last years.
It is a fact that the holiday shopping season has already begun. We can
either jump on the band wagon and dance to the music of the holiday
sales program. Or, we can just simply stand by and watch the wagon haul
all that business out of town.
I find it fascinating, that many of the same folks that claim local
businesses shouldn't start offering Christmas Season wares until after
Thanksgiving, have already started their holiday shopping.
Or so it seems to me.
--------------------------------
If I understand it correctly. The issues surrounding the possible
increase of rental rates for the Senior Citizens at the Armory has been
tabled,.... for the time being anyway.
-------------------------------
The price of gas here in the largest city between Grand Forks and the
Canadian border $2.20. It wouldn't surprise me if it goes even lower
today.
--------------------------------
It's hard to believe that we are only a few short days (pardon the pun)
away from the shortest day of the year.
=========================
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.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

November 11, 2008 - Tuesday

Todays Gazette is brought to you, in part, by the McKay Machine Shop
located on east 5th street in Grafton.
-------------------------
The current temperature is 20 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 24/18
Normal H/L temp for this date is 37/20
It was 64 degrees on this date in 2005
Of course we are experiencing global warming. Al Gore recently found
out about it and puufff,.... it's become a brand new discovery,.......
again.
========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
---------------------------
Kilmers Excavation crews are still hauling out fuel laden soil from the
front of the former Hvidsten Implement building on the corner of fourth
street and Griggs Avenue. I hope the boom on Kilmers 325 Cat backhoe is
long enough, to reach deep enough, to get at and remove all of the
contaminated soil.
While hoping, I should also hope that the folks that "donated" the
property (not the Hvidstens) in question to the city of Grafton for
taxes, also thanked us (the city of Grafton) for removing a giant
albatross from their shoulders.
Or so it seems to me.
-------------------------
It looks like gas fell below the $ 2 dollar mark in Fargo this week.
Jeff wrote: >>>
Gary
Just an FYI....gas in Fargo is $1.89/gallon! Bottled water.... $1.25
for 20oz.
Keep up the good work!
Take Care
Jeff Pederson <<<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Jeff. If my
math is correct, although it may not be... That puts water at $8.00 a
gallon, or, to put it another way. Water is now over 4 times more
expensive than gas. (bottled water)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"To know what is right, and then not do it. Is the worst form of
cowardice".
It is a quote I have used often. It is also one I feel very strongly
about. Although I have never professed to be a significantly "tactful"
writer. My intent certainly is not, in any way, designed to hurt or
offend innocent people.
Unfortunately, last Friday, November 7 Gazette I "related as fact" the
potential environmental issues that folks of different stature might
experience in a elevator. I must admit, at the time, I found the
statement interesting and even somewhat amusing.
However, after reading the following note, from a person that I have
the utmost respect for. And, after rereading the comment in question
once again. I find the need to extend my most sincere apologies to Lisa
and to everyone else that I may have offended as well.
Lisa wrote: >>>>
Mr. Moe, I just wanted you to know that although your fact section
today is a fact, I as a person of short stature, or correct term of
little person, found that fact 100% offensive and inappropriate. I grew
up and still live in Grafton. I think your daughters were even my
babysitters from time to time. I was also your granddaughters boss for a
few summers. I enjoy reading your postings as do many others, but today
you lost a reader. All people should be respected and you clearly
crossed the line. <<<<
Thank you Lisa, for caring and sharing your feelings, and, for
pointing out my inequities. I will try do better in the future. Another
quote I use often best reflects my present state of mind.
"I may not always like what you tell me.
I will, however, always appreciate it."
Gary
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This morning, Tuesday November 11 a whole bunch of people will gather
to celebrate the life of Henry J. Corneillie.
Although I really never knew Henry very well. I do know his son and
daughter-in-law John & Susie Corneillie and also Henry's daughter
Jennifer and her husband Kim Hooey very well.
However, I have learned more about Henry and the kind of person he was
in the past few days over coffee at Granny's than others might have
learned in a lifetime.
I would like to share just a bit of what I have learned about Henry
from those who knew him much better than I.
"Henry was a real true, honest to God worker." "Henry was a working
mans, working man." "When Henry climbed up on a tractor, you didn't
ever worry about him getting the job done." "Henry was an honest to God
true blue farmer". "All you had to do was give Henry a tractor, and he
knew what to do with it." " By gully, they just don't make men like
Henry Corneillie anymore."
Yes, from what I have been able to learn about Henry. He will be
"working the Lords gardens" and I have every reason to believe, every
row will be a straight as if there was a GPS in the tractor.
I would like to extend our deepest sympathies and our sincere
condolences to the Henry Corneillie family.
From Patty & Gary Moe and family
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Henry J. Corneillie Sr. age 78 of Grafton, ND died Friday, November 7,
2008 at the Unity Medical Center of Grafton. Henry J. Corneillie Sr.
born Feb. 27, 1930 in Joliette, ND. He attended rural school there and
following his education he worked on the family farm. He was drafted
into the U.S. Army in 1953 during the Korean War. He spent two years as
a staff driver for a 2 star general. Returning home to find his father
had sold the farm, so he started working for area farmers. Henry was
united in marriage to Doris Lorenzen on February 10, 1962 in St. Thomas.
living in St. Thomas Henry worked for Ray Littlejohn, Lon Stenerson, Ed
Lysengen, Adolph Aaland, and the Gilleshammer Farms. In 1976 the couple
moved to Forest River, ND where Henry worked for the Dick Clark Farms.
In 1980 they moved to Hoople and he worked for the John Donnelly Farms.
When they quit farming the couple moved to Grafton and Henry worked as a
carpenter at the Grafton Developmental Center. Henry still had a calling
for farming, so Bill Kingsbury offered Henry a job and he spent the next
26 years working for Kingsbury Farms. During the winter months, Henry
would go to Florida to help his son plant potatoes' for Tri-Campbell
Farms. Henry was working this spring until he started getting ill. He
was diagnosed with lung cancer in September. Farming was his life's
passion Henry is survived by his wife Doris, Grafton; their
children: Jim (Vicki) Corneillie, Fort Myers; John (Susie) Corneillie,
Grafton; Jennifer (Kim) Hooey, Grafton; Henry "Punky" (Sonia)
Corneillie, Orlando; grandchildren: Wyatt, Derek and Taylor; brother
Oscar and sister Valentine "Teno" Pellitier. He was preceded in death by
his parents, daughter Brenda on Jan. 19, 1986, six infant siblings, and
brothers: Alphonse and Gaston Jr. and Sister Julia.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 10:30
A.M. at the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Grafton, ND.
Visitation will be Monday from 5-7 with a prayer service at 7:00 PM at
the Tollefson Funeral Home of Grafton. Interment will be at St. John's
Catholic Cemetery.
The Tollefson Funeral Home of Grafton is in charge of the arrangements.
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"Simply thinking you are always right, makes you wrong once, for sure."


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

Monday, November 10, 2008

November 10, 2008 - Monday

Todays Gazette is brought to you, in part, from the Grafton Armory.
(circa 1955)
Once the home of the Grafton High School "Spoilers" Basketball Team.
For the past several years, however, the Armory has been dedicated
primarily to craft shows, auction sales and Jose Coles Single Elephant
Travelling Circus.
------------------------
The current temperature is 25 degrees
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 25/20
Normal H/L temp for this date is 37/20
It was 64 degrees on this date in 1905
The absence of glaciers in the area continues to remind us of the
threat of global warming.
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-------------------------------
Tonight, (Monday November 10) the City Council well meet. As I
understand it, discussions pertaining to the Armory and it's possible
uses will be on the evenings agenda. I suspect, who, how and why, along
with how much and how often will all be questions looking for answers.
I hope "our" community leaders will also be asking themselves another
very important question. "If the Senior Citizens do not (or cannot) use
portions of the Armory as they have been able to in the past,... who or
what will?"
++++++
Marian Hajicek sincerely requests that anyone who reads this message
would come to City Hall Monday evening (TONIGHT) at 6:30 and help our
areas senior citizens keep their entertainment room. Marian
continues,... After all, the $240.00 a year that we would pay them
extra isn't going to do much for them but it sure will add to our
hardship. Senior Citizen Club President, Marian Hajicek. <<<<
++++++
I received the following comments regarding the armory from another
concerned individual. >>>>
In response to the senior citizen concern on increasing the rent
of their room. Why are they having to rent the room in the first
place? Certainly the City of Grafton can afford to give these people
a room so that they can enjoy their "golden" years. They have been
paying taxes all their adult lives and now it is time for the community
to give them their "payback". Maybe the city can find another way to
save $20 per month-- it shouldn't be that hard for a city! <<<<
++++++
The next note adds even more fuel to Armory issues. I guess I wasn't
aware that the armory has been "closed" after noon. >>>>>
I would like to add to the senior dilemma. The seniors as well as
others used to enjoy walking in the gym during the noon hour for
exercise and a reprieve from work. They have since closed that facility
at noon so that working people with a noon break cannot use it. It was
especially nice during the winters month as we all know walking outside
in the winter can be treacherous. If you could appeal to have this
facility re-opened during the noon hour would be appreciated. One could
delve into the reason that the decision was made to close it during that
time. <<<<
Now then,... let's hope our city leaders can come to a realistic
resolve the these issues at tonights council meeting.
--------------------------
~~~ FISHERMANS PRAYER ~~~
I pray that I may live to fish,
Until my dying day.
And when it comes to my last cast,
I then most humbly pray,
When in the Lord's great landing net
I'm peacefully asleep,
That in His mercy I be judged
Good enough to keep.
----------------------------
Question of the Day:
Will the Astro Turf behind the Double E stand up to the riggers of
winter snow removal equipment?
----------------------------
I am pleased to see that several of our local business establishments
have started preparing for the Christmas Holiday Shopping season. Many
stores in the "big towns" have been decorated and playing Christmas
music for a couple of weeks already.
I am also pleased to hear that "our" holiday lighting in Leistikow Park
program will begin sooner this year as well.
----------------------------
I really don't believe that Joe "the Plumber" works anywhere in the
Grafton area. However, I am reasonably certain, all of our area plumbers
do have a "working John".
=======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
=======================
"If you can't stand for something, you will, probably fall,....... for
anything."


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

Friday, November 07, 2008

November 7, 2008 - Friday

Todays Gazette is brought to you from the land just south of the
Northern Lights.
-------------------------
The current temperature is 32 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 44/35
Normal H/L temp for this date is 39/22 It was 73 degrees on
this date in 1999
The weatherman says we can expect to receive a large shipment of
snowman parts before this weather event is over.
===========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
===========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
--------------------------
I wouldn't have believed it, if it hadn't just happened to me. As
everyone is aware, president-elect Barack Obama said we "must" have
change. He isn't even in the whitehouse yet, and already the only thing
I have left in my pockets,....... is change.
-----------------------------
Although I have been "somewhat" suspicious for quite
some time. Thursday morning, while at Granny's partaking of the juice of
the coffee bean. I became convinced that the community of Grafton does,
in fact, have a culinary artisan of serious consequence, in the person
of Troy Sangrait.
The first time I became aware of Troy's artistic abilities was
several months ago. While consuming the juice from Juan Valdez's donkey.
It was then that I noticed the pancake one member of "our" group was
eating. It looked like Mickey Mouse and could well have been made in a
Disneyland kitchen. Less than a week later I noticed another caffeine
consumer pouring syrup on a pancake that looked so much like Yogi Bear,
you could almost hear the hey-hey Boo-Boo. Then, yesterday morning
Alysia Osowski, one of Granny's wonderful nourishment nurses, brought
Harry Iverson a pancake that looked a whole lot more like a sunflower or
a daisey petal than a pancake. After admiring Harry's early
morning delicacy Jim Schieffer shared another "interesting" Granny's
pancake story. As I remember it. A number of years
ago, Judge Jim O'Keefe ordered a pancake and upon receiving it
commented, "This pancake is overcooked." So as the story goes,.... the
waitress took the "overdone" pancake back to the kitchen and,... shortly
thereafter, the waitress brought the Judge a plate containing pure
pancake batter. I'm not sure if I can print Judge O'Keefe's actual
words except to sat that he would probably have been mre satisfied with
a pancake a little closer to the average of those he had been given.
Anyway, if you should happen to be in Grafton around breakfast
time. Stop in at Granny's Restaurant and request one of Troy's more
unique pancake designs.
----------------------------
====== FACT ======
It is a fact that a crowded elevator can smell different,........
to a midget.
----------------------------
~~~~~ NOW THEN ~~~~~
If your not already a senior citizen, you certainly should
expect to be one,...... someday. To that end I think it is important to
share Marians message regarding the senior members of our community.
Marian wrote: >>>>>
Subject: Senior Citizens
Hi Gary, I am so glad you are doing better from
your eye surgery. Keep up the good work. I have a problem I am
going to confront you with and hope you have some ideas on what we, the
Seniors can do about it. As you probably are aware, the City Hall is
planning to raise our rent for the Senior Room. I realize it is not
that much, but to us it is. Because we have no way of making any kind of
money like we used to and renting out our room is not enough to pay City
Hall $2400.00 a year. I am trying to get some people together to
attend the City Counsel meeting this coming Monday night and see if we
can get through to them that we would like to be able to stay in our
room at the Armory if we can, but when our money runs out there is
not anymore. I believe the Seniors deserve more than this in their
aging years of life than to not be able to play a few cards, socialize
and have a cup of coffee with friends. Between the Senior club and
the nutrition program, these two programs are so very beneficial to
all of them. Were it not for the nutrition program, many of these
older people would not be able to stay in their own homes, and they
would end up in a Nursing Home and that would cost the Social Services
more money. It seems rather ridiculous to raise the rent by $20.00 a
month because what can that amount do for the City's bills. If we
have to leave this place that we have used for many years all that is in
that room belongs to the Seniors, and will go with them.. I wish also
these people would realize that some day they will be Seniors and would
they like it if they were treated like this. After all, it was the
many generations of Seniors that built this community for what is is
today. I pray that anyone that reads this letter would come to City
hall on Monday evening at 6:30 and help us and stand behind us on this
issue. After all the $240.00 a year that we would pay them extra
isn't going to do much for them but it sure will add to our hardship.
If you feel that this is worth passing on I would be very much
appreciative of your interest in the Senior Citizens of Grafton.
Thank you very much Gary, and again keep up the good work. Senior
Citizen Club President, Marian Hajicek. <<<< Thanks a
million for caring and sharing Marian. I hope in some small way, I can
help get your message to the hearts and minds and even more important
than that, the purse strings of Grafton's City Government.
I suspect a grant, the likes of which the folks of Northwood
enjoyed from Grafton Citizens, might keep our seniors meeting room
wholesome for the next several years.
---------------------------
War doesn't always determine who is right. However, It always
determines who is left.
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"To know what is right, and then not do it. Is the worst form of
cowardice."
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, November 06, 2008

November 6, 2008 - Thursday

Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by the wonderful folks
in Grafton. The biggest community between Grand Forks and the Canadian
border.
------------------------
The current temperature is 36 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 54/44
Normal H/L temp for this date is 40/2
It was 68 degrees on this date in 1975
If everything the weather people are forecasting actually comes true,
we can expect our first bonafide winter "like" weather of the season.
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
As I see it, even with one eye behind a patch, my eye is doing great.
That, I am pleased to say, comes straight from my eye surgeon. It might
be several weeks or even longer before I will realize my full sight
potential. However, already it is easy to see improvement on a daily
basis.
If you don't think you are seeing things the way they should be seen.
Contact the folks at Heartland Eye Care in Grafton or Park River. I did
and am I ever pleased I did.
---------------------------
Funny how most folks, regardless of where they live, believe they live
in the best part of this wonderful country. We, here in northern North
Dakota and Minnesota, are certainly no exception.
After all, in just a few short weeks. "We" will actually be able to
walk on water. As a matter of fact we will even be able to drive on
water. And,.... they couldn't even do that in the Old Testament.
Or so it seems to me.
---------------------------
Tuesday afternoon a crew from Kilmer Excavation moved equipment in and
started removing the cement from the front of the former Hvidsten
Implement facilities on Griggs Avenue. The intent of the project, as I
understand it, is to remove the buried fuel tanks that once served many
of Carl Hvidsten's customers.
As I watched the giant backhoe remove the first few pieces of cement.
It didn't appear as though there would be any issues relating to the
project at all. Unfortunately, by early Wednesday morning, as the
backhoe got closer to the abandoned fuel tanks. Several people, from as
far away as two and three blocks started noticing the nose burning
"aroma" from the fuel that has been pent up for so many years in the
tanks and surrounding soil in the area.
For practical purposes, the former Hvidsten building has been deemed
"unsaleable" for many years primarily because of the fuel tanks buried
in front of the building. After the fuel tanks are removed, that
building will be able to be sold and once again returned to a more
useful life. And,.... just as important, to the city of Grafton tax
rolls.
Maybe, when Kilmer's crew finishes the fuel tank and contaminated soil
removal project at the Hvidsten building. They will be able to move over
to the former Walsh County Bank Building. Or, possibly even the former
Mid-Town-Motel building. Both of those buildings have been used for
sailboat fuel storage for many years and it goes without saying that
Grafton's downtown shopping facade would be significantly improved upon
their removal.
----------------------------
Rumor has it that Dayton Kornkven's auction sale, held on the south
end of town the other day, enjoyed as close to a exceptional attendance
as one could hope for this time of the year. The buildings, to the best
of my recollection, were built by Dayton's father in law Renee French.
According to the talk at the coffee shop, the buildings were also going
to be sold. If that is so, and I guess it was. No-one drinking coffee,
at least no-one drinking coffee where I drink coffee, knows who the new
owners of those buildings might be. That is of course, if there really
is new owners of those buildings.
-------------------------------
I'm not sure where I read the following message. It could have been on
the back of Kringstad's Septic Service tank truck:
"Caution - This Truck is full of Political Promises".
--------------------------------
Once again, last night Grafton's Unity Medical Center facilities,
combined with Unity's highly trained, courteous and very professional
staff provided a member of our family with the kind of care and concern
that some folks believe can only be obtained in a major medical facility
in a much larger city. And, as we hear so very often over Grafton's
Radio Station KXPO. We received such wonderful care, "right here at
home".
=======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
=======================
"There is really only two reasons for not sharing your thoughts. Either
you really don't care. Or, you really don't have any."
Thoughts that is.


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