Saturday, February 28, 2009

February 28, 2009 - Saturday

Todays Gazette is being brought to you, in part, by Henry's
CountryPolitan. Conveniently located on Hill Avenue next to the Grafton
Drug Store.
------------------------
The current temperature is 5 degrees.
The "feels like" temperature is -12
Yesterdays H/L temperature was -1/-21
Normal H/L temp for this date is 27/10
It was 59 degrees on this date in 1901
Flooding is Mother Natures method of "legalized" water boarding.
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff.. mostly stuff.
===================
Saturday afternoon Pat and I stopped in the CountryPolitan Store
looking for a birthday gift. It's a fabulous little store with hundreds,
if not thousands, of wonderful gifts for almost every occasion one could
possibly think of. As Jean Ann was wrapping our gift, I started thinking
how unique the CountryPolitan Store is and how wonderful it would be if
everyone in the entire area could see the nice things Jean Ann's store
has to offer.
Then, I began thinking about all the other "unique" business
establishments Grafton has to offer.
Just down the street for instance is The Squire Shop, a fabulous, one
of a kind, clothing store that offers a complete line of clothing for
both genders with service as good as any major city store has to offer.
Next to The Squire Shop is another unique business called Embroidery
Plus housed in what is possibly the oldest retail building in town,
Embroidery Plus can put almost any kind of logo or literature on just
about anything you can legally wear down the street. And, just recently
Denise has added a quilting department to her facility.
Whenever I think about the special things our wonderful community has
to offer, I'm always reminded of all the fantastic photos Grafton
photographer Rock Tweten has taken of famous people from around the
world. You don't need to take my word for it, simply checkout the walls
of his studio and those of the Chester Fritz.
I suppose must communities have neat little Coffee Shops, but I'll bet
half of the next stimulus package there aren't any any nicer than The
Daily Grind on fifth street. Then there's The True Value Store on Hill
Avenue. It's as close to a real old time, everything you need is in
there somewhere, store you might find anywhere in the country.
Mary's Ladies Fashion Store is in the 600 block of Hill Avenue. Mary's
is another one of those one of a kind ladies store that could fit into
any major city setting as perfectly as it does in Grafton. Mary's
wonderful ladies fashions are housed in the beautiful building Marvin
Pederson built for his marvelous Jewelry business several years ago.
Speaking of Marvin Pederson and his jewelry store, just next door to
Mary's Fashions, Jeff Narloch operates a truly unique jewelry store
named Golden Harvest Jewelry. Jeff and his jewelry are known throughout
the entire area. Golden Harvest Jewelry is a fabulous Big City jewelry
store that we are very fortunate to have right here in Grafton.
Across the street from Golden Harvest Jewelry, you'll find another very
unique, very beautiful, floral and gift shop. Carol Osowski's Town and
Country Floral is a absolutely beautiful complement to the downtown
business district of Grafton. Just south of Carol's place on
Hill Avenue is the Strand Twin Theaters. Most of our old folks have been
going to the Strand theater enjoying movies with the Henriksen family
since they were little kids, I know I have.
Of course my walk down Grafton's unique and fascinating business
establishments wouldn't or couldn't be complete with mentioning one of
Grafton's oldest business establishments. One that truly is near and
dear to my heart. Grafton Floral and Greenhouse is one of the very few
remaining actual glass (the kind that breaks when you throw rocks at it)
greenhouse and floral shop operation in the whole country. My parents,
Bill and Helen Moe, started Grafton Floral in 1946 in a old wood frame
building that once was the home of Heltne's Harness Shop just south of
Hugo Kutz's building on Hill Avenue and the business has continued to
operate in Grafton year 'round since it was opened back so many years
ago..
Another very important business Grafton is fortunate to claim is
MarketPlace on 8th. MarketPlace on 8th is large enough to handle the
biggest weddings and gatherings as well as small private meeting areas
with a menu that will satisfy any and all occasions.
During the spring, summer and fall season, Grafton is also fortunate to
have one of the areas only remaining "drive-inn" restaurants. Ryer
Starks West Side Drive Inn not only offers all of the standard
"drive-inn" restaurant delicacies, they feature my personal favorite
"Wagon Master" hamburger. And, I should add, that the West Side Drive
Inn only uses hamburger that is freshly ground three times daily to
guarantee it's freshness and fantastic taste. I'm not aware of another
drive-inn anywhere close that does that.
Speaking of hamburger, meats of any kind, fish and all the fixins
including the areas Famous Papa Lou's BBQ sauce for that matter. The
Country Smokehouse on west 5th street is another unique "Meat Market"
business the Grafton community has to offer.
When I began my "trek" thru some of Grafton's more unique business
establishments, I was standing in Henry's CountryPolitan store. I
couldn't help remembering that I actually was standing in the former
Tollack's Furniture & Hardware Store building. A building that has
touched the lives of a significant number of people over the years. The
Tollack and Sell family members as well as the Trudeau, Davis and French
families are among the many that may well nourish a few memory cells in
that same building.
Aren't memories wonderful?
-------------------------------
Although you may not believe it coming from me, maybe you will believe
it coming from Tom. He wrote; >>>
"You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthy
out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another
person must work for without receiving. The government cannot give to
anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody
else. When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work
because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other
half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is
going to get what they work for, that my dear friend, is about the end
of any nation. You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it."
~~~ Thomas Jefferson ~~~
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"Life is to short for long answers," GLM


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

Friday, February 27, 2009

February 27, 2009 - Friday

Todays Gazette is brought to you in memory of Trueman Thompson.
It saddens me report that Trueman, age 72 passed away Thursday at his
home in Grafton, North Dakota.
"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 current temperature is -15 degrees.
The "feels like" temperature is -24.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 1/-12
Normal H/L temp for this date is 27/9
It was 51 degrees on this date in 1932
Mother Nature still practices water boarding. She calls it flooding in
the Red River Valley.
=====================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=====================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------------------
Pat and I attended the Mardi Gras Party (Fat Tuesday Festivities) at St
Johns Tuesday evening. Proceeds from the event will help fund youth
activities at the "EDGE" in Grafton and church repairs in Haiti. That,
along with absolutely Fantastic Food and Entertainment most certainly
was the reason for the evenings super turnout.
Brent Hermans caresses the keys of a piano with the grace and passion
that most certainly must have come to him as a gift from God.
The way Steve Larson moves air past his vocal cords, absolutely amazes
me. His timing and delivery mimics even the best abilities of any of the
members of the world renowned "Rat Pack".
When Ken Nelson strums his guitar, the sounds he orchestrates could
easily be mistaken for those of Chet Atkins, and,.... Ken sings to boot.
The drummer for our evenings entertainment simply cannot be more than
a drumroll away from the same status the likes of which Buddy Rich must
have emerged when he was a lad. Young Ryan Dusek was not only
entertaining to listen to, he was very entertaining to watch as well.
All in all Fat Tuesday, for Pat and me was a most enjoyable evening. If
the powers that be, will allow it to be, Pat and I will certainly be
partaking in next years Marti Gras Festivities at St. Johns. We would
encourage all of you that can, to mark next years "Fat Tuesday" on your
calendar and plan to attend.
It took more than forty energetic volunteers to bring this years event
to fruition. Their hard work and efforts were apparent in every aspect
of the evening. In the words of a famous English born comedian. "Thanks
For The Memories."
------------------------------
I can't let the Wednesday Breakfast event at Granny's pass without some
mention. Wednesday, Bruce Eickenberry celebrated the 50th anniversary of
his birth. Granny's it seems, found out about the celebration and
prepared a very special pancake for Bruce that morning. The pancake was
made in the shape of the numeral "50", and, just to spice it up, (pardon
the pun) a bit, there was a delicious sausage patty delicately place in
the center of the zero.
Rumor has it that Krissy may have had something to do with it, and we
all "summized" that Bruce found that out when he got home Wednesday
night. Although he didn't say anything Thursday morning, he did have an
unusually bright smile on his face when he walked into Granny's. Happy
Birthday Bruce.
----------------------------
~~~ Bone Marrow Donor Drive ~~~
This is the latest word regarding Joanie Silewski's Bone Marrow Donor
Drive. >>> We have been approached by several people that would
like to be tested & registered as a donor, but will be out of town due
to sporting events/work/family commitments. So for you out of towners we
have set up an alternative date, because we need as many people tested
as possible. If you will be out of town the Saturday of the donor drive,
please send your name and email to starcat32@hotmail.com by March 6th.
We will have a kit with your name on it Monday March 9th @ Wally's
Deli. If this alternative date still does not work. You can request a
kit directly from DKMS. Their phone number is 212-209-6718 or
www.dkmsamericas.org.
======= Give life. Give hope. ========
------------------------------
This coming Saturday, our daughter-in-law Yvette, will celebrate the
anniversary of her birth. It hardly seems like a year ago since we
congratulated Yvette for reaching another chronological milestone. Yet
hear we are, wishing the lady that gives our eldest son reason to walk
the straight and narrow - or he'll be sorry if he doesn't - a very happy
birthday. I can see no reason, except for what she might do to me if I
do, to mention the number of candles on her cake or, for that matter,
how much heat they will create.
Happy Birthday Yvette, your Mother-in-law and I love you very much and
we are really, really pleased or son Jeff, still listens to you.
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

February 24, 2009 - Tuesday (early)

Todays Gazette is brought to you by
the Gift of Life Transplant House in Rochester Minnesota.
--------------------------
The current temperature is 17 degrees.
The "feels like" temperature is 13
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 16/-5
Normal H/L temp for this date is 25/7
It was 59 degrees on this date in 1959
Communities without flood protection practice self imposed water
boarding on the grandest scale possible.
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
--------------------------
Almost every day we can see signs that indicate our "growing is
showing". Just the other day a sign indicating a brand new financial
institution in the MetLife Resources building on Hill Avenue, started it
all. In less than a week they (MetLife Financial) was advertising for
sanitation personnel, Is suspect, to help them clean up in the field of
finance.
Although it's been several months since the Jet Oil Bulk operation
moved across the street into the building that one served as Dwight
Crousse's Ford Garage Body Shop. But it only took a couple of weeks of
"Uncle Bens" special fried breakfasts there and now, they too, have a
sign out front of their offices advertising for a sanitation person.
Maybe "Uncle Ben" missed the fry pan and dropped the bacon and eggs on
the floor.
Anyway, yesterday I was on the way over to see how Donnie LaBerge was
coming along rebuilding his recently acquired 41 Ford Coupe when I
noticed yet another sign advertising for a Sanitation Worker. This one
also says they are willing to train, offer vacations and a health plan
as well as retirement benefits.
I must admit however the last sign did leave me more than a little
confused. Not the sign per-se, that was very easy to understand. It was
more the location of the sign than anything. You see that sign is placed
in front of the exact spot Francis (Please Pass the Potatoes) Phelan's
Office "USED" to be. Now then,.... everyone that ever knew Francis
Phelan knows He would never have needed to hire a Sanitation Worker in
his operation. Because,... he had already "cleaned up" everything, from
everybody, before he left.... if you get my drift.
Anyway, if there is a bona-fide Sanitation Worker out there somewhere
that would like a good job, working for great people, call 701-352-0563
and talk to Bob Oihus. You will not only get to know the community
inside and out, you'll also learn what everyone in town eats,...... and
what they throw out.
----------------------------------
I am pleased to share the next note I received from George Cox. I am
especially pleased George's message is a positive one. He wrote; >>>>
Gary,
Hi, just a quick update on my stem-cell transplant - - all went well
and Diane and I got home last Friday. I was one of the lucky ones - I
got to use my own stem-cells. We stayed at the Gift of Life Transplant
House in Rochester and met lots of people waiting for donors. The fellow
next door to us received a liver just in time to save his life.
Please pass on the importance of going through the process to see if
you match to Joanie Silewski for stem-cells. Think what it would feel
like to save a life!!! I have never heard of a stem-cell drive before -
good luck Grafton. What if someone from out of town wants to see if they
are a match - is there someway of checking that out?
God Bless,
George Cox
class of 65 <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing George. It sure is wonderful
hearing such fantastic news. Congratulations!!!! As far as your last
question --- "What if someone from out of town wants to see if they are
a match - is there someway of checking that out?" I will have to depend
Joanie's very dependable team of volunteers to check that out and get
back to us.
Monday morning I received a call from a very kind gentleman that will
not be able to be hear on March 7th to participate in the Bone Marrow
Drive. He also indicated that there could be a few more individuals
unable to attend o the 7th and his question was. "Is there somewhere
else he, or they, could go to be tested so that they too, could
participate in the upcoming Bone Marrow Donor Drive for Joanie Silewski?
------------------------------------
George Carlin once said. "I thought about how mothers feed their babies
with tiny little spoons and forks so I wondered, what do Chinese mothers
use? Toothpicks?"
=======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
=======================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Monday, February 23, 2009

February 23, 2009 - Monday

02/23/09 MONDAY
------------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by the folks that are proud to be an
American. Everyone else can go back to where ever they came from.
--------------------------
The current temperature is -13 degrees.
The "feels like" temperature is -13
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 16/-5
Normal H/L temp for this date is 25/7
It was 59 degrees on this date in 1958
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-----------------------
Here we are, going into the fifth week of Raumin Gone and still there
is no sign of a sold sign, on any of our sailboat fuel storage
facilities.
Simonsons new building on the corner of Hill Avenue and 12th street is
still under construction. The parking lot of the proposed new Subway
Sandwich, Gas and Convenience Store continues to be cluttered with the
equipment of out of town contractors.
------------------------
Rumor has it that local officials are entertaining the idea of
installing a "hydraulic blade" on the end of one of Grafton's Motor
Patrols. The idea is a fantastic one, if I say so myself. As a matter of
fact, in that regard, I can say that Raymond Nord, Elmer Sondeland and I
installed just such a device on a city motor grader back in the very
early 60's. AND, I should add, it worked absolutely the way the
salespeople said it would,..... perfectly........... almost.
At the time, we (the street department) were able to plow a normal
snowfall off city streets without leaving that gosh awful ridge of snow
across anyones driveway.
However, heavier snowfalls created an overload situation that the newly
added hydraulic blade couldn't handle. That, combined with the fact that
it took significantly more time to open the streets, gave our city
leaders sufficient reason to abandon, what seemed at the time, a very
good idea.
For the sake of those, including me, that must remove those gosh awful
snow and ice ridges from the end of our driveways. I hope that the
recent rumor of the addition of such equipment to our snowplowing fleet
is true,... and, that it works.
Who knows, we may even see a picture of the miraculous new device in
this weeks edition of the Walsh County Record. At any rate, If there is,
or isn't, any substance to the 'rumor', a short story and a picture in
the record would be great.
--------------------------------
I believe the following note from Celeste, echo's the thoughts of most
North Dakotans. She wrote; >>>>>>
I love that message from the Eric Anderson about North Dakota and it
warms my heart when I hear other people talk about our beautiful state
because I would not trade it for the world. I'm so proud to be a North
Dakotan and be from small town America where people are friendly and
will help you out in a heartbeat if you need it. HOORAY FOR NORTH
DAKOTA! BLESSINGS, CELESTE <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Celeste. Although I believe
most folks, in most states, could share the same message. I, like
Celeste, will always be partial to North Dakota and small town USA.
-------------------------------
It's times like these that adds credence to quotes the likes of George
Bernard Shaw. "A government that robs Peter to pay Paul can always
depend on the support of Paul." Or so it seems to me.
---------------------------------
~~~~~~ WALLEYE DINNER ~~~~~~
======= HERITAGE VILLAGE =======
FRIDAY, FEB 27TH FROM 5PM TIL 7PM
ADULTS $11.00 Child under 10 $5.00. FOR TAKE OUT ORDERS,
CALL THE VILLAGE AT 701-352-3280 ALL PROCEEDS TO BE USED FOR THE
PRESERVATION OF HERITAGE VILLAGE AND JUGVILLE.
----------------------------------
If you can't go to the game, and, if you're to far away to get KXPO on
your radio. Andrea shared the following solution.
She wrote; >>>>>
Subject: Local Sports On-Line
Hi Guys! Please spread the word ~
Local Sports Play-by-Play
ON-LINE
www.network1sports.com
click on "Today's Broadcasts" and find North Dakota
Also, join Live Chat with others listening on-line
~~~~~~~~~~~ Enjoy! ~~~~~~~~~~~~
Andrea Johnston
General Manager
KXPO 1340 AM & KAUJ 100.9 FM
p 701.352.0431
AND,... Thank you for shopping local for the good of our community!
<<<<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Andrea. I'm guessing, next
week there will be several of our "distant" members listening to the
state hockey tournaments on line.
==========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==========================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Friday, February 20, 2009

February 20, 2009 - Friday

Todays Gazette is being brought to you by Mark Twain.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 10 degrees.
The "feels like" temperature is 10
Yesterdays H/L temperature was12/-12
Normal H/L temp for this date is 24/6
It was 51 degrees on this date in 2000
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
--------------------------
I could tell when I woke up this morning that it was going to be
my lucky day. I woke up at 3:45 this morning and couldn't go back to
sleep. How lucky is that, I thought. Once again mother nature doesn't
think I need a full nights sleep. After turning the sheets into more
knots than I ever learned in Boy Scouts. I decided to get up and
checkout the "everything you can't get along without infomercials".
The next thing I knew, it was time to head for Granny's,..... so
that's what I did. Granny's actually opened a few minutes earlier than
normal (with normal being 8 to 10 minutes late) this morning so once
again I experienced that "lucky feeling" as I walked into Granny's and
sat down.
That's when I really got lucky...... I won a brand new Cadillac
CTS worth $41,365.00. WOW!!!! I'm not sure what color it is yet, but I'm
pretty sure it'll be a pretty one. I would like to thank the
Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge no. 1199 and Roger Stark for allowing me
opportunity to purchase the winning ticket for the "Caddy".
Oh,.... I guess they haven't actually drawn my lucky winning
ticket yet. That won't happen until March 26 but when they do, I will be
the happiest lucky bugger in town. AND, I'll have a brand new Cadillac
CTS for sale.
I sure hope Jeremy will be in the market for a car by the end of
March. Anyway, if anyone else would like to help the Bismarck-Mandan
Elks Lodge folks pay for the new car I hope to win, give Roger Stark a
call and tell him you would like to buy a ticket...... or two.
THEN,... after I returned home from Granny's this morning the next
thing that happened came while Pat and I were on the way to Wally's
Supermarket to pick up a bunch of Monkey Pickles. We were listening to
KXPO Radio, (we always listen to KXPO Radio) everybody should listen to
KXPO. Anyway, the prize for the correct answer for todays question of
the day was two tickets to the movie Gran Torino staring Clint Eastwood
playing at the Strand Theater. The question...... What town is the
longest bridge in north Dakota located, and what river does it span? The
answer...... the town is Newtown and the river is the Missouri River.
The best part of that whole deal is,.. sometime in the very near future,
Pat will be taking me to the movies. I'm not certain if Tom and Tammy
will allow us to bring our own bananas to the movie. Then again hot
buttered popcorn probably doesn't go very well with bananas anyway.
Aren't small towns wonderful?
-----------------------------
Isn't it funny how some things can remind us of other things? For
instance. My good friend John shared, among others, the following quote.
"Never pick a fight with a man that buys ink by the barrel." --
Mark Twain --
It reminded me of a conversation between my father and Jack
Morgan. The actual content of the discussion has slipped into posterity.
However, I do remember Jack telling dad that it was obvious that the
'jack---' that made that remark in the first place, had neglected to
remember he was talking to a man that bought his ink by the barrel.
To that I might only add. It definitely is a quote worth
remembering. Right Ryan?
----------------------------------
My good friend John shared the following article with me. Reading
it made me feel good, I hope it does the same for you. >>>>>
Letter to the editor: People of N.D.
showing the way for the rest in the U.S. The Jamestown Sun -
02/07/2009
The other day I ran across a news
article on the Internet about North
Dakota's $1 billion state budget
surplus. Sitting in my home state of
Michigan, I wondered, "What are North
Dakotans doing that we aren't?" Of
course, there are many practical answers to that question, including
your energy
and agricultural revenues. But I settled on a more emotional answer —
and the
answer lies with the people of North
Dakota themselves.
Thirty-eight years ago, I was a young
airman stationed at Minot Air Force
Base. In the 14 months that I was
assigned there, I grew to know and love
the people of North Dakota. In a time
when those in the military were not
shown appreciation in other parts of
America, North Dakotans took a
different stance — they treated us with
respect and appreciation. I've always
remembered that, and to this day I have
a warm place in my heart for the people
of North Dakota.
But it goes deeper than that. In my
time at Minot, I grew to understand how proud and how hard working the
people of North Dakota are. Perhaps it's the love of the land, the
harshness of the
winters or the spirit that binds people
of the Plains together. Whatever it is,
you North Dakotans are a breed apart.
I'm just glad I had a chance to live
there so many years ago and become
acquainted with the people.
Yes, all of us in America face grave
challenges in the days ahead. I
understand that despite your budget
surplus, North Dakotans face the same
uncertainties as the rest of the
country. Education, job growth, health
care and infrastructure needs are
concerns for all of us. Yet, I believe
that if the rest of the nation had the
same resolve, spirit and work ethic of
North Dakotans, we would not fear the
future, but embrace its possibilities.
May the people of North Dakota
continue to show the way for the rest of the United States. Perhaps,
someday
soon, we'll take notice and follow your
lead.
Eric Anderson
-----------------------------------
This Sunday Holly (Demester) Perry will be celebrating the
anniversary of her birth.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY HOLLY, We Love You. Aunt Pat and uncle Gary.
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Monday, February 16, 2009

February 16, 2009 - Monday

Todays Gazette is brought to you from the very bottom of Lake Agassiz.
--------------------------
The current temperature is 5 degree.
The "feels like" temperature is -10
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 15/-6
Normal H/L temp for this date is 23/4
It was 50 degrees on this date in 1921
We received two inches of snowcat dust overnight.
==========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------------
Not much "new" news in Shivercity. Rumor has it Tom Campbell met a
dozen "interesting" individuals the other day. However, for some reason,
he really didn't want to go into any of the de-tails.
-----------------------------
Last week the sign alongside the offices of Met Life on Hill Avenue
indicated they offered, and would be able to service anyones financial
needs. They must have really been serious about being in the banking
business. This week,.... that same sign alongside the Met Life building
says they are looking for a Sanitation Worker.
Would it be fare to say that Met Life plans on really "cleaning up" the
financial world? Or, is that what some folks mean when they say they
will be expecting much more "Transparency"?
---------------------------------
"To know what is right and then not do it, is the worst form of
cowardice."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Please consider setting aside a few minutes of your time on March 7th.
It will not only make you feel exceptionally good, it could well save
someones life.
++++++
Subject: Bone Marrow Drive
Hi Gary,
Thank you for starting your "Gazette" as I know many look forward to
logging on each day to see what you have to offer. I would like to
add something that pertains to the Bone Marrow Drive for Joanie. We
had a meeting with a DKMS representative who flew in from New York City
this week to discuss the details of the drive. I really think she was
amazed with our little community when stories were shared regarding
different fund raisers, etc. Not only can we possibly find a match
for Joanie, but as Cathy stated earlier, we could find a match for
someone GLOBALLY! Wouldn't it be great to get a call that you could
save someone's life? Michele from DKMS shared an instance where a
drive was put on for a young child and only 20 people showed up. Of
course there was disappointment in the number of people but guess what,
out of those 20 there was a PERFECT match and that person saved that
child's life. Nobody knows (except the one above) how things will
turn out but there is strength in numbers.
Thanks, Kim Thompson <<<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Kim. ====== PLEASE take a
minute to read and consider helping:) Also - feel free to forward to
anyone that might help.
Our friend/sister, Joanie Silewski, NEEDS to find a bone marrow match in
order to survive the reoccurrence of her leukemia. There will be a donor
drive on Saturday, March, 7th at St. John's Catholic Church in Grafton.
(10 AM - 5 PM)
We are asking you to consider two things:
** First (and most importantly) -- Show up on the 7th to get tested - It
should take about 15 minutes for paperwork and a cheek swap------ (no
needles). The more people who get tested the greater the chance that
someone will MATCH WITH JOANIE.
**Second - We need many people to work at the drive. Volunteers are
needed for the following:
1. Welcome/Information table (one or two people per shift)
2. Registration tables (six people per shift)
3. Cheek swapping (four people per shift- no medical training needed)
4. Thank-you table (one person per shift)
Hours of the drive are 10am-5pm shifts are 1 hr (you may work more
than one shift if you like)
If you are interested in working:
*Registration e-mail-- kristinlee202@yahoo.com (Kris Stewart)
*Swabbing e-mail-- ilovecamping64@yahoo.com (Mickey Schumacher)
* Info/Welcome or Exit/Thank-you e-mail--
wschuster@gra.midco.net (Julie Schuster)
*Donating soup/buns/butter/crackers/tortilla chips e-mail--
starcat32@hotmail.com (Cathy Stark)
*If you are interested in making a monetary contribution
contact--bthompson@gft.midco.net (Kim Thompson)
Please Keep Joanie in your prayers.
-------------------------------
"Never let the fear of striking out get in your way."
-- George Herman "Babe" Ruth --
-------------------------------
= Unity Hospital & Medical Center. =
If you have been thinking of leaving a legacy that a entire community
would appreciate. Consider leaving a Gift to Unity Hospital.
Hospitals and Medical Centers are amazing facilities. They not only
help all of the people in a community enjoy better health. Unity Medical
Center also allows our entire community the ability to enjoy a much
greater vitality.
=========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
=========================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Friday, February 13, 2009

February 13, 2009- Friday

Todays Gazette comes to you with a very important message. Please read
carefully and give it your serious consideration.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 6 degrees
The "feels like" temperature is -6
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 25/10
Normal H/L temp for this date is 22/3
It was 49 degrees on this date in 1983
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------------
Sometimes I really believe there are things so important, that they
should be dealt with exclusively. Such is the case with the following
message regarding the upcoming Bone Marrow Donor Drive.
Cathy would like to share the following:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hi Gary. As you know there is going to be a donor drive here in
Grafton on March 7th. We are wanting and need it to be a huge success
and need as many informed people we can get to be there. You are a
wonderful source for getting the word "out there" and I was wondering if
you would send out this informational note. Thank-you, Cathy (I will
throw in an apple pie if you like!)
I would like to clear up any misconceptions of being a bone marrow
donor. First, just because you get tested does not mean that you will
be donating to someone. That is the ultimate goal, but many people that
are tested are never called. Second, the donor drive we are putting
together is to help raise an awareness of the global need for donors and
that being a donor is something you can do while you are alive and
healthy. It isn't just a sticker on the back of your license. Third, by
hosting a donor drive in Grafton, ND we are praying that a donor can be
found for someone, in our case one of our own, Joanie Silewski. By being
registered and tested you could very well be a donor to another young
mother or to a small child that needs a shot at life.
Being tested is the easiest part. Short confidential registration,
you just answer a few questions. No needles. Two cotton q-tip like swabs
are used to swab of the inside of your cheeks and you are done.
The collection process of stem cells is an out patient procedure.
80% of the time stem cells are collected in a blood transfusion method.
This means you go to the hospital, an IV is put in one arm. Blood is
drawn from that arm and goes into a machine that pulls stem cells out of
your blood. After the blood as been filtered it then goes right back
into you thru another IV that is in your other arm. This process
takes about 4hrs. Side effects maybe a slight headache or flu like
symptoms from the stem cell booster shot they give you a day before.
Symptoms disappear as soon as the collection starts, thus removing the
extra stem cells from you.
Yes, we've all heard the horror stories about collecting bone
marrow from the pelvic bone. However, it isn't as horrific as the
tales are being told. Modern medicine has come a l-o-n-g way baby! Yes,
there maybe a chance that you might have to have the stem cells
collected from the pelvic bone. 20% of stem cell collections are done
this way. This means that you will either have a local anesthetic or you
will be put completely under with a general anesthesia. A highly trained
person will insert a needle into the area, collect the stem cells and
you are done. The pain rating for this would be the equivalent to
have fallen and have a slight bruise, nothing that a couple mild pain
relievers would not take care of. Remember the age range that can be
tested is 18-55. YOUNGSTERS!
If you are called because your genetic DNA matches someone, you will
have to go to a LOCAL hospital. For us I believe the closest would be
Fargo. Do a little touring, have some noodles make a day of it! Both
procedures listed above are outpatient. NO HOSPITAL STAY, You are in and
out the same day. Also the out of pocket cost to you depends on how
much you spend touring or where you go to eat. ha-ha Seriously the
recipient of the stem cells, the person you are donating to; their
insurance pays for your medical involvement.
So it costs you nothing to get tested. A monetary donation to DKMS,
a non-profit organization, is appreciated because they rely solely on
donations to survive. If you are a match you do not have to pay for any
of the medical expenses. You are not required to travel to all ends of
the earth. So when you look at the big picture of being a possible bone
marrow donor. The pros really truly out weigh the cons.
Give hope. Give life. <<<<<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Cathy. I hope the Bone Marrow
Donor Drive in Grafton on March 7 is a huge success. There should be
lots of folks willing to volunteer their help on the 7th, many who can
volunteer as a donor, AND I can see no reason why everyone shouldn't be
praying for Joanie T., George C., Jim D., Richard T., and everyone else
who's future and well being depends so much on the energies and
synergy's of all of us.
Or so it seems to me.
P.S.
If, for any reason, you find you are unable to participate
"physically". Please consider sending a donation (check) to the Bone
Marrow Donor Drive center at St. Johns Church on March 7th.
As far as the apple pie offer is concerned Cathy, I'm going to leave
that to the Lord and my weight trainer. I suspect I am going to lose
(pardon the pun) that argument anyway.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
REMEMBER ~~ THIS ~ SUNDAY
"FREE WILL OFFERING"
PANCAKE AND SAUSAGE BREAKFAST AT HERITAGE VILLAGE, SUNDAY,
FEB 15TH FROM 9AM TIL 1PM.
ALL PROCEEDS TO BE USED FOR THE PRESERVATION OF GRAFTON'S HERITAGE
VILLAGE AND JUGVILLE.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop diggin'.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"By the time we get done spending money to save the economy. There will
be so many zero's on a one dollar bill, there won't be room for
Washington picture."
Or so it seems to me.
==========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==========================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Thursday, February 12, 2009

February 12, 2009- Thursday

Todays Gazette is brought to you by -- CUPID -- the worlds most famous
Archer.
--------------------------
The current temperature is 21 degrees
The "feels like" temperature is 9
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 34/25
Normal H/L temp for this date is 22/3
It was 47 degrees on this date in 1898
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------------
My "little brother" A.K. isn't exactly Cupid,..... I'm not even sure he
has ever shot an arrow. As a matter of fact, referring to A.K. as my
"younger brother" would more accurately describe A.K's position in my
gene pool.
Anyway, one thing I am sure of is that my "little brother" A.K. Moe is
in the business of delivering one the most beautiful methods of saying
"I Love You and I Really Do Care." And he does it, throughout
Northeastern North Dakota and Northwestern Minnesota exactly the same
way Grafton Floral & Greenhouses and the Moe family has done it for more
than 60 years.
The Grafton community is fortunate indeed to have two such exceptional,
very reputable Flower Shops.
When you "Say it with Flowers", you are saying you care. When you Say
it with Flowers, it's your wish you were there.
If your to far away, to be here on that day, call the Flower Shop and
send your Sweetheart a lovely bouquet.
-----------------------------------
I read it in The Walsh County Record.
Grafton's newest business establishment is scheduled to open "sometime
in April".
According to the Arch Simonson via the latest edition of the WCR The
Neighborhood Subway will, in fact, be a Subway. Eighty percent of the
facility will be dedicated to the construction, and, consumption of
Subway Sandwiches. You will also be able to get gas (for your vehicle)
at the same facility. AND, the rest of the building, as I understand it,
is scheduled to serve as a convenience store complete with restroom
accommodations.
Sometime this summer Simonsons are also planning to construct a brand
new car wash on the corner of hiways 17 & Hill Ave as well, - I'm
guessing the car wash will wash old cars too - much the same as their
car wash facilities at Simonson Station Store throughout ND and in
Bemidji, Minnesota.
There you have it folks. The very latest word on Simonsons Neighborhood
Subway Sandwich, Station and Convenience Store as obtained from the
pages of the Walsh County Record.
Sorry Ryan, evidently the previous "rumor" wasn't credible.
----------------------------------
As is evident by the following note, I inadvertently (I think thats a
good word) overlooked extending Happy Birthday wishes to Little Eben
Arnesen, another member of the Arnesen Dynasty. (Please keep in mind
that I am in the very early stages of "Old Timer disease and Eb's
birthday, most likely, was overlooked because I don't have that date on
record.
Anyway, Glenn wrote: >>>
This is a letter to the editor about his lack of responsibility when
it comes to reporting the news to the world. The alleged editor missed
one the biggest days in Minnesota history yesterday. It was the 4 year
anniversary of the birth of the godchild of arguably the proudest
godfather in the state. I hope Eben has not suffered psychological
damage of which he can not recover. I am quite confident that a
historical moment such as that, will not be missed by your staff again
!!! Gunner <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Gunner. And, to a lesser
extent, for chewing the part that I sit on. Now then, If it hadn't of
been that I missed, I could have told to to kiss it.
P.S.
This summer, Little Eb and I will go fishing and we'll leave Gunner at
home.
----------------------------------
Thank Don, for sharing the following "thought". >>>>
Subject: I thought it...wished I'd said it
"What could possibly be more reckless than spending a trillion dollars
you don't have on a plan that you have no evidence will work? What could
be more irresponsible than doubling the generational debt for your
partisan pet projects in a time of crisis? And what could be more
selfish than stifling debate by deploying fear to induce voters into
supporting it all?" --columnist David Harsanyi <<<<
Thanks a million for the "thought" Don. In my personal opinion,
whether one agrees with this particular columnist, or not. It would be
difficult to argue that "we" are spending billions upon billions of
dollars without much, if any thought.
---------------------------------
"The economy is so bad right now Barack Obama's new slogan is "Spare
Change You Can Believe In." -- Jay Leno --
---------------------------------
Welcome to the crazy world of the Shivercity Gazette Neil. I can't
promise factual and I can't promise actual. All I can promise is, what
you pay for, is what you get. - GLM - Or so it seems to me.
=======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
=======================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

February 11, 2009- Wednesday

02/11/09 WEDNESDAY
-----------------------
HAPPY - BIRTHDAY EVELYN ARNESEN
Today is the day Evelyn will celebrate the anniversary of her birth.
Evelyn is the Matriarch of the Arnesen's Rocky Point Resort & Lodge
Organization. She's a God fearing lady with an over abundance of love,
determination and understanding. Evelyn has not only nourished and
fostered her three sons while they continue developing the best Fishing
Resort & Lodge operation on the Lake of the Woods. Evelyn always "helps"
me finish my loaf of bread and carrots when we eat at the lodge.
However, more importantly Evelyn Arnesen is a Wonderful Lady that every
member of my family has come to know and love. AND, every one of us
would be more than willing to help her blow out some of the ninety
candles on her cake today.
Happy Birthday Evelyn, we love you and we think of you often.
Especially on this, your very special day. Gary & Patty Moe
------------------------
The current temperature is 33 degrees.
The "feels like" temperature is 29
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 36/34
Normal H/L temp for this date is 21/2
It was 50 degrees on this date in 2002
The unofficial Gazette rain gauge recorded .39 inches of moisture in
the form of rain in the latest weather event.
We can expect to receive another inch of snowcat dust today.
========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-------------------------------
Grafton's street maintenance crews have had two "steamers" thawing out
frozen storm sewer drains for the past two days. As I passed one of them
the other day I was reminded of a time, nearly fifty years ago. I could
almost see Aldrige Sandvig, Snuss Nelson and Elmer Sondeland standing
along side the "steamer" poking, probing and stuffing steam hose down
the storm sewers thawing the ice that kept them from draining.
I remember the drains on the corner of 10th & Hill, in front of the
Rilie Morgan home, as a particularly difficult one. The drain a block
east of Rilies house was another bugger (I cleaned that up for the
clergy) as was the drains in front of the old arena and the Grafton
Lutheran Church. Aren't memories wonderful?
------------------------------
"It is the responsibility of those who's destiny relies on people, to
make certain the people they rely on, shares the same destiny." GLM
-------------------------------
Speaking of water, Ernie Barta shared the following thoughts in Mayor
Todd Burianeks defence. It also begs the question. Where else but small
town America would a farmer stand up and defend a defence attorney?
Ernie wrote; >>>>>
Hi Gary, just a note about Todd's issue of Flood control.
Being an elected official, (Ernie is a member of the Walsh County
Commissioners board) I know Todds concerns for his people living in
Grafton.
We hardly ever have a commission meeting when we don't talk about
water issues, whether it's flood control, drainage or water
damage to our infrastructure. All projects are expensive to implement
but the end results (on most of them, not all) are very beneficial to
the taxpayer. Thank you BIG ERN <<<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Ern. It is only through the
exchange of opinions and ideas and principals that true synergy emerges
with the best possible solutions. Or so it seems to me.
---------------------------------
It's hard to believe we're already well into the third week of Raumin
Gone. We have been taking turns "interpreting" (Rauminizing) the
pictures on the front page of the Grand Forks Herald as well as those in
the sports section.
-----------------------------------
I know it isn't much, but the following is the only thing I've heard
lately about the Pamida store. Except to say I have noticed the
reduction in inventory. And, I might add, many items have been
significantly reduced in price. >>>>>
Gary, If you've been in Pamida lately, you'll notice that there is
much less merchandise to choose from. My understanding is that they are
"right sizing" the store. No name please. Have a good day. <<<< Thanks a
million for caring and sharing. Call it down sizing, right sizing or
sanitizing one things for certain. "Small town America. Use it or lose
it".
--------------------------------
OKAY,.... there must be at least two card players out there willing and
able to learn the "art" of Bridge. I'm wondering if Bridge wouldn't be a
perfect exercise for the cerebrum of someone in the Early Stages of "Old
Timers".
Anyway, the subject: Bridge lessons at Grafton Vo Tech
We have 10 people signed up for Bridge lessons at Grafton Vo Tech.
There are 5 lessons...every other Thursday at 7pm .. starting this
Thursday Feb 12th. (Thats tomorrow)
It would be nice to get 2 more people so that we have 3 full
tables. Anyone interested can call Lynde Kennelly or Michael Leighton
at 352-2198 to register.
Coaching will be Jerry Blanchard, Terry Kalbrener and Pat
Silewski. <<<<
--------------------------------
FREE WILL OFFERING
PANCAKE AND SAUSAGE BREAKFAST
~~~~ HERITAGE VILLAGE ~~~~
~~~~~ SUNDAY, FEB 15TH ~~~~~
FROM 9AM TIL 1PM.
ALL PROCEEDS TO BE USED FOR THE PRESERVATION OF HERITAGE VILLAGE AND
JUGVILLE.
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

February 10, 2009- Tuesday

Today we extend our sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to the
family of Hope Elizabeth (Johnson) Torkelson
---------------------------
The current temperature is 34 degrees
The "feels like" temperature is 26
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 38/28
Normal H/L temp for this date is 21/2
It was 43 degrees on this date in 1918
==========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------------
Although it hasn't been confirmed, yet, someone reported seeing a man
wearing a long beard with his wife their three sons and their wives
heading for Simonsons Lumber. Evidently the old guy was mumbling
something about building an Ark in the Park.
Unofficially we recorded .34 inches of rainfall so far in this weather
event in Shivercity. According to the "experts" on last nights Channel 8
News, the .34" of moisture was already taken into account in the latest
spring flood forecast. Hence, we can all rest assured,.... Noah's boat
doesn't necessarily have to float.
---------------------------------
Speaking of floods and the protection we are dammed if we do and damned
if we don't. Former City Council member Jack Volk shared the following
thoughts. >>>>
Subject: Flood plan.
I would like to input some thing on the vote in 2004 for the flood
control project. I was on the City Council when we spent many hours
meeting with the Corp of Engineers. If more people would have attended
them meetings they would have known why so many where against their
plan. The money was there from the Government but had to be requested
every year. as you well know the war in Iraq was going and all the money
was being sent over there. I contacted the city of Wahpeton, (they were
in the middle of there flood control), they were about 1/2 complete and
the Government with drew all their funding to support the war. They then
in turn had to go to the citizens and request money from them to finish
the project. It cost the citizens another 2 million dollars that they
did not expect. I asked the Corp if we could get all the money up front
in a fund that could be used as needed, they said no we had to request
they money every year. I could not support that type of a project
knowing that there was a strong possibility that the citizens of Grafton
would have to come up with the money to finish it. I agree that
something had to be done but that was not the way to do it. Jack
Volk
--------- John Maxwell forwards the news letter to me. We moved to Las
Vegas last Dec. so I really enjoy reading about the great people and
news from Grafton. <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Jack. After spending a few
hours watching "our" government at work on C-Span I can understand why
folks might feel a bit apprehensive. The fact remains, and the bottom
line of course is. There is absolutely no possible chance for long term
viability of our community, or, for that matter for any community like
ours, to continue to be viable without credible dependable flood
protection.
----------------------------------
Bob rolled his thoughts about heaters and water that runs over river
banks into the following note. >>>>>
Subject: Heat And Water
Hello Gary,
Wow! The Gazette sure had some opinions in it today!
There is a formula for converting Watts to BTUs and it is a standard.
I can't cite it right here, as I don't have it at hand. One can look
it up in an Engineering Text. There are only so many BTUs that can be
gotten from 1,500 Watts and that's that. It's not magic. The
$20.00 Milk House Heater on sale at Home of Economy produces the same
amount of BTUs as the Eden Pure, Hundreds of Dollars heater.
As far as water (flooding) is concerned, I was surprised to see the
Flood Control measure defeated, but I then realized that the good
citizens of Grafton felt like they were already taxed almost to oblivion
and they didn't want higher taxes and the inefficiency that goes with
government projects. "Or so it seems to me."
Blessings Prayed For You And Yours,
Bob Lewis
Pisek <<<<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Bob. The trouble with us (me
included) is we simply refuse to admit, nor are we willing to accept the
true realities of life.
Smokers refuse to quit because it "may" not kill them.
Speeders refuse to slow down, because, they believe, speed only kills
the other person.
Citizens refuse to protect themselves from the ravages of floods
because, they truly believe, the government will........ after it
happens. ie. Grand Forks, Fargo, Warren, Roseau, Wahpeton and Winnipeg.
To mention only a few.
--------------------------------
I am saddened to share the news of Hope Torkelson's passing. As I
remember it. The first time I met Hope was at her parents neighborhood
grocery store on the east side of town. I'm not sure if she was actually
working there at the time or simply there visiting her mother Lux.
However, I do remember getting a slice of summer sausage and a candy bar
that day and that it was Hope that handed them to me. I remember as I
walked out of the store, I looked at Elmer Sondeland - Elmer and I were
working together that day - and telling Elmer how pretty I thought she
was. Elmer, in his normally gruff voice looked at me and said,
"pretty,.... hell she's beautiful".
If I might be so bold, I'd like to clarify "our" thoughts on that day.
Hope (Johnson) Torkelson was an especially "pretty" lady, that is to
say she was like the most beautiful sunset on a perfect summers eve.
Hope was also a very "beautiful" person, as in satisfying and
gratifying to know and associate with. She has given this world so much
more than she has ever asked for in return, and, she leaves a wonderful
family to carry on her wishes and dreams.
We would like to extend our most sincere sympathies and condolences to
all of Hopes family from all of ours.
Patty & Gary Moe
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hope Elizabeth Johnson Torkelson, 80, peacefully passed away on February
8, 2009, at the Grafton Lutheran Sunset Home surrounded by her loving
husband and family.
Hope was born on July 7, 1928, at Cavalier, ND, to Alfred N. Johnson and
Elizabeth (Lux) Jackson Johnson. In 1950 she married Marlin W.
Torkelson in Grafton. Hope was first and foremost a loving mother and
devoted wife. Outside the home, she worked at the Grafton State
School hospital and as a dental assistant in Grafton. She and Marlin
were proud parents of a twin son and daughter, Jeffrey and Deborah, and
loving grandparents to five grandchildren, and one great grandson.
Hope is survived by her husband Marlin; her twin son and daughter
Jeffrey (Pam) Torkelson, West Fargo, and Deborah (Len) Dusek, Wahpeton,;
grandchildren Mark Torkelson, West Fargo, Rebecca (Jeremy) Baumgartner,
Valley City, Lynn (Arielle) Dusek, Argusville, and Lee (Teresa) Dusek,
St. Cloud,; great grandson Zachary Baumgartner, Valley City,; and
brother Alfred N. (Eleanor) Johnson, Jr., Chico, CA. She was preceded
in death by granddaughter Tina Torkelson, her parents, two brothers, and
a sister.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 A.M. Friday, February 13,
2009, at St. John's Catholic Church, Grafton. Visitation is from 5-7
P.M. on Thursday, at the Tollefson Funeral Home in Grafton, with a
rosary at 6:30 and prayer service at 7:00 P.M. Friends may call at
the church on Friday one hour prior to the service. Internment will be
at the Grafton Lutheran Church Cemetery in the spring.
The Tollefson Funeral Home of Grafton is in charge of the arrangements.
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Monday, February 09, 2009

February 9, 2009- Monday

02/09/09 MONDAY
-----------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you with all of the "transparency" it can.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 33 ABOVE
The "feels like" temperature is 24
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 30/9
Normal H/L temp for this date is 20/1
It was 40 degrees on this date in 1977
==========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
--------------------------------
Todays is the day the Lord gave to our local body shops and emergency
rooms. However, it wouldn't surprise me if some Washington Politicians
figure out a way to claim it's part of their small town "economic
stimulus" program.
However, according to the local weather service we can expect the
weather to go along like this for awhile,... and then get worse. The
unofficial Gazette rain gauge registered one mark short of a quarter of
an inch of rain since midnight. All of our sidewalks and roads are glare
ice but, so far at least, there isn't any ice on the telephone and
highline wires.
It's not supposed to get to cold, so all the folks with those gold
plated electric heaters will be able to save a bunch more money on their
heating bills.
------------------------------------
Speaking of expensive electric heaters. I received the following "vote
of doubt" in that regard. >>>>>
Hi Gary, I really enjoy your newsy tidbits on the Shivercity
Gazette. Keep them coming. On the reading of the Eden Pure
heaters.. Whow!!!!!!! What a joke they are. Last year my
daughter from Edinburg ordered two of them. In using them for about a
month she was spending almost twice the amount of electricity for them
and her furnace besides because they did not keep it warm enough. So
don't waste the time and effort to buy them. She ended up returning
them to the company, at their expense I might add. Keep up the good
work. Marian <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Marian. In all fareness to the
Amish and the heater folks I maybe should say that it is possible that
some of those heaters are better than others. I've heard some folks
actually do swear by them. On the other hand, there's a whole pile of
folks that swear at them as well.
Or so it seems to me.
------------------------------------
Most folks are aware. There are three topics of taboo. They are, in no
particular order, Politics, Religion and Water. For some reason that
doesn't seem to stop some folks from sharing their opinions.
Denise sent the following thoughts. >>>
Gary:
I have to respond to your comments about the flood, especially the
comment "To expect ordinary people to understand the specifics of a plan
that involves so many aspects simply defies logic." The citizens of
Grafton and the surrounding area had every opportunity to learn and
understand about the flood plan. The City officials had informational
charts, community information sessions, and articles in the newspaper.
If people didn't understand what they read in the newspaper, they were
welcome to the informational sessions where everyone who wanted to speak
was allowed to speak. The representatives from the Corps of Engineers
were very articulate and laId out the short- and long-term expenses and
consequences. Also, there is no lack of intelligence in this community.
The "ordinary people" of this community were and are entirely
capable of understanding the flood plan. It is my personal belief that
apathy is often the culprit in the lack of progress. Too often people
feel that someone else should do it--like demonstrating initiative,
taking risk, shopping locally, joining a service group, or volunteering.
I was sorry to see the plan defeated. For many, it's just easier to not
take a stand. To quote you, "or so it seems to me."
Denise Sevigny <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Denise. I
can only add that I feel exactly the same way Denise does,... but
different. Someone must first inform the uniformed before the process of
understanding can begin.
-------------------------------------
This is a subject that chaps my butt as a lifelong citizen of
Grafton. It's one of those "it doesn't effect me so I don't see why I
should care" issues. It's been nearly 60 years since the entire town
was inundated with floodwaters,a flood which while our largest yet, is
still smaller than a projected 100 year event used by FEMA as a minimum
protection level. Flooding indirectly hurts everyone in Grafton and to
some extent the area around it. I believe Grand Forks lost around 10% of
it's businesses after the flood of "97". Can Grafton afford to lose 10%
(or likely twice that) of it's businesses due to a major event? We don't
need anymore sailboat storage facilities. Unfortunately the flooding
issue is an "out of sight out of mind." problem. Few worry about it
til the call for sandbaggers is made at which point it really is too
late.
In hindsight, if the community had followed thru with flood
protection when it had initially been introduced in the 80s that system
would already be paid for and likely proven it's worth.
While I respect Mr. Tallackson as he has much more experience with
the flood issue than I have I'm not sure his "alternative" is
a complete solution either. After all water is the king of the
trickle down effect. I have heard both the terms retention dam and low
head dam used in regards to Mr. Tallacksons recommendations. I'm not
sure if it was an error on his part or a misinterpretation of
others. While I am no expert, reason and experience would tell me
that they are to some extent two different beast. While it is true low
head dams serve to retain water, it is in a manner to store smaller
quantities and preserve water levels in a normally dry area, for
future use. They do little to retain flood waters as they are generally
at full capacity all the time. A retention structure with it's
high dam, larger storage capacity and provisions for release of overflow
are what is needed and what I would assume Mr. Tallackson is referring
to. I agree that the construction of more retention dams would be a
valuable asset not only to Grafton but to alleviate flooding in the
county as a whole.
One point I like in this idea is that the costs and benefits would be
shared by the County and not only the City of Grafton. However even if
such structures are built it is likely Grafton may still need some level
of protection on it's own. I don't think we can totally abandon such
an idea but sadly fear if upstream dams are built it will make flood
protection in Grafton a totally dead idea.
Unfortunately this is just another example of our leaders having
vision and our citizens failing to follow through with those visions and
wonder why Grafton is struggling. <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing. That's the trouble whenever
the topic is water and what should be done about it. We're "damned" if
we do. and "dammed" if we don't. Or so it seems to me.
==========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==========================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Friday, February 06, 2009

February 6, 2009- Friday

Todays Gazette is being brought to you by Noah, his wife, their three
sons and their wives.
-------------------------
The current temperature is 16 degrees.
The "feels like" temperature is 2
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 31/1
Normal H/L temp for this date is 19/0
It was 47 degrees on this date in 2002
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
--------------------------------
It just might be my imagination, and I may be the only one that thinks
that politics is a funny critter at best. For instance, I agree that the
American people did vote for a change. I cannot believe they voted to
allow the president to blow more than a trillion dollars without some
very serious consideration and debate.
Maybe,... just maybe, our Washington politicians should take advice
from our communities political leaders. We, for instance, all know we
absolutely do need flood protection for the growth and long term
viability of our community. As a matter of fact, we have known that for
more than sixty years.
However, here we are still "looking for a potential flood plan". Our
Mayor Todd Burianek shared the following message regarding Grafton's
potential flood plan.
>>>> Hi Gary,
I write in reference to your quote: "It's the time of the year again,
when all the folks that could, won't do anything about protecting the
town from flooding."
In 2004 EVERY voting age citizen of Grafton had the opportunity to do
something about protecting the town from flooding. By a vote of 63%-37%
the CITIZENS said NO to flood protection. I can only assume that the
"folks" you refer to are all the Citizens of Grafton and not just the
elected officials.
I have no way to discern the feelings of the public now (other than
another vote) but it's my opinion that we simply can not wrap up the
same project, with the same expense to the City of Grafton citizens and
somehow, miraculously 14% of the people will switch their vote to pass
flood protection this time. Thus, we seek better ways to fund such a
plan that lessens the burden on the local taxpayer. The Stimulus package
being discussed could be one way to do that though most of the projects
involved in that must be shovel-ready in 90 days.
I don't have the answer to flood control, but it's not that we, in City
Government, are not trying to find one.
Todd Burianek <<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Todd. I am well aware of the
numbers at the pole. It would be extremely interesting to know exactly
how many of those that voted truly knew what they were voting for. I
venture to guess a significantly small amount. It would be interesting
to know how many of those voting actually had a investment in city
property of any kind. It would also be interesting to know the Chamber
of Commerce (by individual establishment) position on flood protection.
The agricultural community meets on a regular basis to discuss water
issues such as general drainage and flood problems. I would venture to
guess if we allowed grade school students to vote whether or not there
should be school. They too would vote a resounding NO. Certainly not
because they truly understand the ramifications, and the negative impact
it would have on their future, rather because they do not. Much the same
as the last vote for a flood protection plan for the city of Grafton. I
suggest that very few, very, very few, truly understood all of the
intricate issues involved with the proposed program.
To expect ordinary people to understand the specifics of a plan that
involves so many aspects simply defies logic.
Or so it seems to me.
-----------------------------
For the past several months local folks have been driving past the
corner of hiway 17 and 81 watching the transformation of a reasonably
standard (pardon the pun) gas station, into a eye pleasing facility
capable of distributing gasoline as well as a corner convenience store
and, at least til now, it has been thought it might also accommodate
something akin to a Subway Sandwich Shop.
The longer it takes for Simonsons to complete the process, the more
some folks are convinced that corner may never ever become a Subway
Sandwich Shop. If the following note is any indication, and,.... it may
or may not be, we could well be buying Simonsons Sandwiches under
another name entirely.
One individual wrote: >>>>>>
My bet is that when Simonson's opens it will have sandwiches but it
will not be a Subway. Drive to Grand Forks and take 32nd east. Cross S
Washington and look to your left just behind the building in the NE
corner of S Wash and 32nd. Simonson's just opened that after extensive
remodelling. It even has the same color scheme as Grafton's now is.
There are sandwiches and quite a bit more.
That project took a long time, too, but as an occasional customer it
appears they are trying to learn the business, or what will work best in
that type of store.
Unless they own a Subway franchise that requires them to have that
business I think instead we will end up with the type of store they just
opened in GF, and that is, in my opinion, a better store than just a
Subway. And their sandwiches are good. <<<<<<
WOW, no wonder it's taking so long to finish the Grafton site. They're
"practicing" their culinary skills on the folks in Grand Forks first.
Now then, if that is really true, it certainly would be a big city paper
story. Right Ryan?
--------------------------------
The parking lot in front of Pamida was full of cars all day long
yesterday. Then again, so too was the lot at Alco's store. I might also
add that all of our eating establishments were full yesterday at noon as
well.
Our growing IS truly is showing.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"I am" is reportedly the shortest sentence in the English language.
Could it be that "I do" is the longest sentence?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I'm not absolutly certain I read the sign correctly, however I could
swear the sign beside the MetLife Resources building indicates that we
can now do all of our financial business with the folks at MetLife. If
so, does that mean we have added yet another bank in Shivercity?
The old saying, "competition is good for the community", may well come
into play.
---------------------------------
Ralph Dangerflield's philosophy belongs in Washington. He always said,
"I never knew a man that could spend his way into prosperity".
Obviously, Ralph never met our new president.
I really do want our new president to be successful. Because I truly
believe if he fails, we all fail. However, I don't want him thinking we
voted to throw away good money after bad. I honestly don't think anyone
else does either. Except maybe the politicians in Washington.
=======================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
=======================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Thursday, February 05, 2009

February 5, 2009- Thursday

Todays Gazette includes a prayer first seen in the Gazette almost
8 years ago.
------------------------
The current temperature is 8
The "feels like" temperature is 1
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 14/-8
Normal H/L temp for this date is 19/0
It was 47 degrees on this date in 1991
=========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
=========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
--------------------------
This hasn't been a very significant news week in Shivercity. Today
is the 11th day of Raumin Gone and Donald Douglas has returned home
after a week of "thawing" in the Arizona sun country.
Monday morning, I was able to pass my eye test at Heartland Eye
Care. Which, if I remember right, was more than I could do in Cora
Lykken's class. It seems she didn't think I was using my "I's" properly
back then.
Anyway, I hope I will be receiving my new glasses sometime today
or tomorrow. I understand Nip Lykken might be able to use my old ones.
It seems he lost his bending over a golfball on a Arizona golf course.
According to Billy, Nip was playing with his "putter" when he noticed he
had lost his visual aids.
-------------------------------
Thought of the day:
If anyone thinks solving the problems created by the former drug
store, bank, Penny's and motel buildings is a challenge. Just wait til
we see the quagmire created when they slam the doors shut at Alchem.
---------------------------------
It's the time of the year again, when all the folks that could,
won't do anything about protecting the town from flooding.
----------------------------------
The rumor about the Grafton Pamida Store making some significant
business adjustments in town still isn't apparent,... from the parking
lot anyway. The store appeared to be open and doing business as usual
this morning.
There certainly isn't any shortage of rumors surrounding
Simonson's Subway Sandwich and Fuelling Station. I'm not sure if the
opening has been delayed because of the extended distances all of the
contractors working there must drive, or, if they are waiting for Subway
to come up with a new line of Sandwiches we can eat in the Subway.
Anyway, when, and if, Simonsons new facility does open, it certainly
will be a nice addition to the business community of Grafton.
-----------------------------
It is always a good idea to start the day off with a prayer. One
day, almost 8 years ago now, I started the day off with the following
prayer.
DEAR LORD,
So far today I am doing all right.
I have not gossiped, lost my temper, been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish
or self-indulgent.
I have not whined, complained, cursed or eaten any junk food. I have not
charged anything on my credit card. But I'll be getting out of bed in a
minute, and I think I'll really need your help then.
Thank you in advance Lord --- AMEN.
-------------------------------
I am surprised how many "comments" I received after mentioning my
plan for heating our house with two Eden Pure heaters. None of them were
very positive, I might add. Jeans note represents the gist of most of
them. She wrote: >>>
Hi, Gary! John Maxwell graciously forwards your
Gazette news which I enjoy so much! I live in Park River so it's always
good to hear local happenings. Anyway, why I'm writing, I purchased an
Eden Pure 1500 watt heater this winter here at Lon's hardware and ended
up returning it. It put out the same amount of heat my $42.00 Lasko
rotating heater which is also 1500 watt. The Eden Pure was $429.00 and I
can say my MDU bill was trimmed some but nothing to brag about. I have
heard a couple people in Park River still endorsing Eden Pure but I
wouldn't... Just thought I'd let you know my opinion...
Sincerely, Jean Fjeld <<<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Jean. Your comments
mimic those I have found numerous times throughout the internet. It is
always fun hearing some folks think enough of the Gazette to pass it on
to others.
------------------------------
This Friday, Jennifer (Demester) Osland will be blowing out one
more candle.
HAPPY ~ BIRTHDAY ~~~ Jennifer
This Sunday is the day that Jenny's sister Jada (Demester) Mattael
will celebrate the anniversary of her birth.
HAPPY ~ BIRTHDAY ~~~ Jada
Also, this Sunday is the day that Chase Perry, son of Craig &
Holly (Demester) Perry will become a teenager. WOW,...... HAPPY ~
BIRTHDAY Chase
----------------------------------
Lettin' the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier than puttin'
it back in.
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"Life is to short for long answers." GLM


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

Tuesday, February 03, 2009

February 3, 2009- Wednesday

Todays Gazette comes to you from the cool banks of Shivercity's Colon
Pond on the western edge of Hutson Field.
------------------------
The current temperature is -14
The "feels like" temperature is -14
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 0/-13
Normal H/L temp for this date is 18/-1
It was 54 degrees on this date in 1954
========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
---------------------------
Grafton. ND is a fantastic community to live and raise a
family..........
If anyone is interesting in investing in Grafton commercial property,
contact the folks at www.graftongov.com/properties besides the choice
properties listed on the Grafton site you might consider checking out
one of Grafton's Realty firms for a list of property to fit your needs.
If a wonderful place to live is all you require, please consider this.
Grafton will give you $20,000 to build a house in Grafton!
Grow Grafton Housing Incentive
$20,000 GRANT if you buy or build a newly-constructed single family
home, townhouse or condo.
$10,000 GRANT if you relocate an existing single family home into
Grafton
$1 lots in Lessard Addition
2 year $75,000 tax exemption on the building and trees for your berm.
Water/sewer hookup fees waived
For more information, call Mylo at 701-352-1561 or go to
www.growgrafton.com I don't think there is another community in the
entire country that can meet or beat a deal like that.
------------------------------
Speaking of deals. I received a "flyer" on the mail the other day that
is promoting a product called a Eden Pure infrared portable heater.
Among the myriad of things it suggests the heater will do for me is,
provide me with a healthy environment AND -- and this is the best part
-- the heater will cut my heating costs in half.
Now then, I never have professed to be very smart. However, when I
receive something in the mail that says I can cut my heating costs in
half........ I say,.... send me two (2) and I will be able to heat my
house for free. AND, my friends, that's not a bad deal,..... even in
Norway.
----------------------------------
I could be wrong, however, I believe the latest "rumor" about a Grafton
restaurant being for sale is directed at the former Shenanigans Pizza
facility on the corner of hiway's 17 & 81. Actually, the property is
listed in the Weekly Source as being "for lease" not for sale and the
owner will remodel to accommodate any business venture. If your
interested you can call 352-1769, Terri will answer the phone and tell
you all about it.
-----------------------------------
As for the "rumor" about one of Graftons larger variety stores leaving
town. That,.... probably, is not true. Certainly not entirely true
anyway. However, the rumor regarding such an event certainly should give
the folks that have been trying to resurrect interest (pardon the pun)
to save the former Walsh County Bank Building sufficient reason to
exercise caution.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Question of the day:
Is sailboat fuel more efficient, if it is kept warm all winter?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Holy Smokes!!!! I just looked at the calendar on my wall and
tomorrow, Wednesday Feb, 4 Mike Roufs will celebrate the anniversary of
his birth.
HAPPY - BIRTHDAY ~~~~ Mike
We don't always get to see you,
Tho in our hearts you're always here.
And, if the candles starts your house on fire, use water not the beer.
==========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==========================
"To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the
world."


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

Monday, February 02, 2009

February 2, 2009 - Monday

Todays Gazette comes to you, in part, by all the wonderful people that
are working Graftons Medical Facilities.
----------------------
The current temperature is -4 degrees
The "feels like" temperature is -24
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 28/0
Normal H/L temp for this date is 18/-2
It was 48 degrees on this date in 2000
Someone should tell President Obama that Al Gore says it's "impossible"
to develope clean coal technology.
==========================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==========================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
--------------------------
Have you ever wondered exactly what global warming really is? And,...
have you ever wondered what countries like China and India, with
populations 5 times greater (or more) than in the USA are doing about
it?
I certainly can't answer the first question nor can a substantial
number of bonafide climatological experts from around the world.
----------------------------------
A true friend is someone who reaches for your hand & touches your
heart.
------------------------------------
Speaking of Global Warming. Bob posed an interesting question, someone
may be able to answer. He wrote, >>>>
Hi, Gary,
With all the talk about Global Warming, I got to wondering about what
the temperature of the Earth should be.
I have yet to receive an answer to the question, "Just what is the
correct temperature of the planet, anyway?".
Love the Gazette and can hardly wait until it becomes the "SKEETERVILLE
GAZETTE".
Best Regards,
Bob Lewis
Pisek
P.S.
"How fortunate for government that the people do not think." - Adolph
Hitler <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Bob. I don't think "Al" gets
the Gazette (yet) however, I'm guessing someone that does may be able to
answer your question.
------------------------------
"It is the responsibility of those who's destiny relies on people, to
make certain that the people they rely on,.... shares the same destiny."
Or so it seems to me.
-------------------------------
From time to time I get the Gazette back marked "over quota" in various
forms. The first time or two that happens, I assume the individual is
either off "fishing" or doing something else important. However, after
several days with the same response I begin thinking that maybe that
individual has moved, or changed address, or simply just doesn't want to
be bothered.
I must admit, after receiving several "over quota" notices from
George's mailbox, I began thinking he had grown tired of my babble and
decided not to read it.
Yesterday, I received a note from George that not only answered that
question. He went on to help "us" understand how important communication
really can be.
George wrote: >>>
Gary, I'm at Rochester, at the Mayo and really enjoy getting news
from the home town. I have a Bone Marrow Cancer and they decided that a
transplant was the best way to go. The following is a short summary in
case you would like to share it with your groupies.
Hi,
Just a short summary as to my progress with my stem-cell transplant
procedure at Mayo.
We arrived at Mayo on Dec 28 and have had appointments every day since.
I had chemo for 2 days and ended up in the hospital with an infection
and high fevers for 5 days ? not a good week. After chemo they started
me on growth shots for my white blood cells and had a few blood
transfusions along the way. My blood counts were not getting to the
needed level and about 10 days ago they thought they were going to have
to send me home to let my body recuperate. At that point I was giving
up. The next day the numbers jumped and the following day they got to a
point where they could start collecting my good stem-cells ? Praise God!
The stem-cell "harvest" went very well. Then two more days of chemo and
then they infused the good stem-cells back into my blood system. That is
called day zero, I am now on day +2 and by day +21 or so I could be
looking at going home. Been feeling good the last 4 days but they tell
me that the next week or so could get rough again from the chemo -
that's ok. God got me here and must still have a purpose for me,... I
believe.
Thanks for your phone calls, cards, gifts, and especially your prayers.
God Bless,
George Cox - class of 65 <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing George. You can rest assured
that you are in the best possible place, with the best possible
care,..... and, know that you will have the hopes and dreams and prayers
of the Gazette family on your side. Please forgive me for taking this
most opportune time to add the following.
~~~~ Bone Marrow Donor Drive ~~~~
---------- March 7, 2009 ------------
Between the hours of 10am-5pm
~~ at St. Johns Church in Grafton. ~~
PLEASE,
watch for flyers
and help spread the word
-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-
"To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be
the world."
========================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
========================
"Be who you are and say what you feel... Because those who mind don't
matter.... and those who matter don't mind."
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.