08/22/06 TUESDAY
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by Williamson's Farm Fresh Dairy
Products.
---------------------
The current temperature is 66 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 78/52
Normal H/L temp for this date is 80/53
It's perfect weather to fire up the old walleye combine again.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-----------------------
I'm not sure how much credibility the latest rumor should be given, but
the word on the street is that Bergstrom Electric has taken over the
former Sand Iron & Steel facilities on the east edge of town.
-----------------------
I have also learned that Dave French has accepted a position with
Jamestown Auto Center in Jamestown North Dakota. Dave has been with
Hanson Auto & Implement in Grafton for the past several years and prior
to that Dave sold vehicles for Heritage Ford Chrysler in Grafton for a
number of years.
Along with being one of "our" area's more recognizable car sales
representatives, Dave has been a "regular" each morning at Granny's.
Dave says it will be difficult leaving Hanson's, and the area, although
he said, this is an opportunity for advancement that he just couldn't
pass up.
We wish you the very best in your new adventure Dave, we're happy for
you and your new found opportunity. I hope you also realize that you
will be leaving a void that will be difficult fill.
-------------------------
On June 8, 1946 10,000 visitors flocked to Grafton's new "Chandler
Field" for it's dedication ceremonies. Then baseball commissioner, and
previous member of Graftons semi-pro baseball club, H. A. (Happy)
Chandler was on hand for the celebration.
"Seeing this huge crowd here to attend these festivities and this
game," Chandler said in dedicating the new Chandler field, "tends to
justify the confidence of you people in the great American game of
baseball. And I assure you that your confidence will be justified while
I remain commissioner of baseball."
After his speech, Chandler placed his right hand in a block of fresh
cement. The imprint will be kept at the field as a memento of the
occasion.
"I started my career here in Grafton and it was indeed appropriate that
it be here that I finish it, after playing only two and a half innings
with my old team mates a few minutes ago," Chandler told the crowd.
"I'm grateful to you -- more grateful than I can say to be here and
have the privilege of having this new athletic field named in my honor,"
Happy told the throng.
The 1946 Grand Forks Herald article also featured a picture of "Happy"
placing his hand in wet cement with Boy Scout "aide" Kenneth DeSautel by
his side.
Thanks a million to Leroy Nelson for allowing me the opportunity to
read that edition of the Herald.
The article stated the cement hand print would be kept at the field. I
wonder, what might have happened to it, or, where it's at now? Would
anyone have any idea?
-------------------------
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANNE HARTJE
Today is the day Anne celebrates the 21 anniversary of her birth.
Congratulations and Happy Birthday Anne, your grandmother and I love you
very much.
-------------------------
I received several comments about Jeff Hanson's note yesterday. The
following represents the jist of them.
>>> Sure glad to read the Hanson's response. What do you know about the
building of the new Subway? <<<
I haven't heard a word about the new Subway store. A drive by the
property they will be building on certainly doesn't give one any
indication of new construction,... yet anyway.
-------------------------
Mildred Anderson shared the following.
=== Personal Safety Idea ===
What a great idea!
Put your car keys beside your bed at night. If you hear a
noise outside your home or some is trying to get in your house, just
press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the
horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car
battery dies. This tip came from a neighborhood watch coordinator.
Next time you come home for the night and you start to put
keys away, think of this: It's a security alarm system that you probably
already have and requires no installation. Just press the panic alarm
on your car key chain.
Test it. It will go off from most everywhere inside your house
and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it
with the button on the key fob chain.
It works if you park in your driveway or garage. If your
car alarm
goes off when someone is trying to break in your house, odds are the
burglar or rapist won't stick around.... after a few seconds the
neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out there and
sure enough the criminal won't want that.
Try yours to make sure it works before you rely on it. Just know
you must press the alarm button again to turn it off.
And remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a
parking lot. The alarm can work the same way there.....
This is something that should really be shared with everyone.
Maybe it could save a life or a sexual abuse crime. <<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Mildred. It certainly looks
like a super idea to me.
-----------------------
Konze and Kreamer spent a few days last week replacing the deck on
June and Lees former trailer at Rocky Point. It's nice but it does look
a bit smaller.
-----------------------
With the weather the way it's been, and the water levels dropping the
way they have. I better get back to Arnesen's Rocky Point and get the
old walleye combine going before before I lose another whole crop of
fish.
-----------------------
This weeks lucky firefighters calendar draw winners are:
8/21 Lily Nadeau $20
8/22 June Erlendson $20
8/23 Randy Pederson $20
8/24 Boyd Peterson $20
8/25 Tony Martinez $20
8/26 Paul Nygard $20
8/27 Pat Badolato $20
CONGRATULATIONS
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Monday, August 21, 2006
August 21, 2006 - Monday
08/21/06 MONDAY
----------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by the Grafton Brick Co.
----------------------
The current temperature is 66 degrees
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 83/55
Normal H/L temp for this date is 80/54
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The newest industry to start operations here is the Grafton Brick
Factory Co. which manufactures concrete bricks. The first day's output
was 3,000 brick's. In the future it is planned to speed the operation to
produce 5,000 daily. The company is headed by Soren Blegen, Sanford
Blegen and Warren Wilson.
A large concrete mixer, specially designed by Soren Blegen and
constructed in the Damas French machine shop here, is used in preparing
the concrete.
(Grand Forks Herald - June 9, 1946)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The last Gazette went out on the 10th. That too, was the day the last
of Johnson's Used cars were loaded on semi's indicating the end of
another automotive business in Grafton.
Rumor still has "our" local Hardee's fast food feeding station closing
sometime soon, although, now, someone has added McDonald's coming to
town to the rumor. I guess only time, or someone, will tell.
------------------------
Grafton Floral's 60 years in business celebration was a huge success.
It was heart warming to see so many people (hundreds of them) take time
from their busy schedule to stop by and visit. I was especially amused
at David Hansons Krum-Caka story. It seems Kathy Carlson devised a new
method of pressing it.
------------------------
Every once in a while I get the feeling I just have to say what I
think. I guess it happens once in a while to Tom as well.
He wrote: Subject: WHAT IN THE WORLD!
Gary.
I am not very good with words but I'll try!
What in the world is going on? Every time I turn around it seems to me
that we are selling off our country. It probably started a long time ago
but here is what I have noticed lately, First gas hits three dollars,
then we try to give control of our major ports to more camel jockeys and
now we have to give up the basic freedom to carry toothpaste on an
airplane! I am sick of this crap. On top of that we are trying to sell
GM to Toyota and all of our local business's seem to be closing there
doors! Last time I checked, milk in St. Thomas was $5 a gallon, in the
big city to the South it was $2.75. What in the world? No wonder
people can't make it any longer! I am tired of local leaders wanting
more money for unneeded things! When will it stop? It will stop when
everybody moves to bigger cities drives Toyota's and don't give a crap
about anything or anybody anymore! This country was made Great by "we
the people" not I the Person!!!!!!!!!!! I believe the terrorists of
the world are winning because they have changed almost every simple
freedom we have! They can keep doing what they do but we have to adjust!
Boy I hope I don't run into one soon as I am quite sure he/she won't
like what I have to say.
All that said, There are a lot of awesome people in the world of every
race creed and color! I think we all need to rise up and take back what
is ours True Freedom granted to us by GOD! My challenge to the
rest of the world is WHAT IN THE WORLD are you doing to make it better
for everyone TODAY!, Not just yourself!
Thanks, Gary
Good luck Fishing,
Tom Kennelly
701-520-3040 <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Tom. It is a
fact. "It's not what we do for ourselves, rather, it's what we do for
others that makes "our" country so great." Or so it seems to me.
------------------------
Exchanging thoughts and ideas, and, sharing a bit of ones own world
with others, is what the Gazette is all about. Avis (Brateng) O'Leary,
accomplished all of that with the following note.
Avis wrote: >>> Hi Gary:
Eileen Greevy Prouty from Grafton and her husband Harlyn emailed
me a copy of the Skeeterville Gazette newsletter about GRAFTON
FLORAL.
I enjoyed reading it and recognized many names and loved remembering
all those occasions you talked about in Grafton. I especially
remember Chandler Field and going to sleep with those ball games still
going on at night.
I am the youngest of 9 children--the Brateng family who lived at 905
Prospect Avenue. At the time I lived there five of my brothers and
sister had married and most were living in Washington State and
Oregon. My parents were Bert and Eva Brateng. My dad died in
Grafton in 1950 from cancer. My Mom and I subsequently moved to DC
where I had a job on Capitol Hill -- little did I know I would stay
working there for the next 25 years! Mom later moved to Oregon where
she lived for 25 years before she died.
When I was 12 years of age I would baby sit you and " Doddle
Bug" while your Mom and Dad had a night out. I remember your parents
were so nice and very generous in paying me $2.00 for the
evening. That was great money for a poverty stricken 12 year
old! It was also my first job and I was on my way to becoming a
independent entrepreneur. Oh by the way you 2 boys could be a hand
full sometimes, but I managed to keep up and loved you both dearly.
I live in Columbia, SC with my husband Tim who was a residential
builder-developer until he retired 2 years ago. We left DC and came
south to live and start building in this location.
I was in Grafton this past June 25th to see my sister Bea Johnson
and her husband Kenny and family. We attended Our Saviours Lutheran
Church 125th Anniversary celebration and saw some of the people from the
class reunion--unfortunately our flight from SC was delayed and we
missed the street dance and country club reception.
Thanks for writing the newsletter Gary, and please put me on your
email list for further editions.
Thanks and God Bless you and yours, Avis Brateng O'Leary
<<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Avis. In an earlier Gazette
I mentioned that it was your brother Darrel along with Mike Staffne and
Ron Radford that taught me how to chew snuff. I believe I was 5 years
old at the time. That, may have been one of the reasons you didn't find
me quite as docile as some of the other neighborhood kids. And, I am
pleased to welcome you to the Gazette family.
-------------------------
Kris Stewart and Tammy Henriksen will also become new members of the
Gazette family. Please feel free to share a part of your world with us.
--------------------------
Jeff Hanson sent the following note just this morning. >>> Subject:
business
Dear Gary,
I felt the need to respond to a reference that was in one of last
week's gazettes about Hanson Auto & Implement.
The reference was made in your column pertaining to the closing of
Johnson Sales and Heritage Sales and Leasing. The reference was
that Hanson Auto & Imp. had let five employees go due to the same
economic pressures that caused the other two businesses to close. A
person with a very vivid imagination could make the assumption that
Hanson Auto & Imp. is next in line for the same fate.
Our family owned dealership has an employee count that rages from 65
to 70 employees depending on the time of year and an annual payroll in
excess of 4 million dollars that circulates throughout our
communities. Yes, we have turnover, sometimes employees leave to
better themselves, some times they need to be replace by some one more
capable. The jobs are filled, not eliminated!
Gary, I do appreciate your concern for the well-being of the entire
community and I do know that no harm was meant by the comments that were
made. Truth be told, we are doing business in the same economy that
others have struggled in. When times are tough, we struggle as well.
But I do believe in the people of Grafton along with the surrounding
communities and we plan on being a full service provider of automotive
and agricultural retail sales, parts, and service for years and years
to come!
Jeff Hanson
Brian Hanson
Bonnie Hanson Yantes
~~~~~~~~~~~
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Jeff. Of course my comments
weren't intended to harm, rather, as a wakeup call to the wonderful
people of "our" community. "Use it or lose it", should become the
by-line for which we all function.
"It is the responsibility of those who's destiny relies on people. To
make certain the people they rely on, share the same destiny." GLM
==================================
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.
----------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by the Grafton Brick Co.
----------------------
The current temperature is 66 degrees
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 83/55
Normal H/L temp for this date is 80/54
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The newest industry to start operations here is the Grafton Brick
Factory Co. which manufactures concrete bricks. The first day's output
was 3,000 brick's. In the future it is planned to speed the operation to
produce 5,000 daily. The company is headed by Soren Blegen, Sanford
Blegen and Warren Wilson.
A large concrete mixer, specially designed by Soren Blegen and
constructed in the Damas French machine shop here, is used in preparing
the concrete.
(Grand Forks Herald - June 9, 1946)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The last Gazette went out on the 10th. That too, was the day the last
of Johnson's Used cars were loaded on semi's indicating the end of
another automotive business in Grafton.
Rumor still has "our" local Hardee's fast food feeding station closing
sometime soon, although, now, someone has added McDonald's coming to
town to the rumor. I guess only time, or someone, will tell.
------------------------
Grafton Floral's 60 years in business celebration was a huge success.
It was heart warming to see so many people (hundreds of them) take time
from their busy schedule to stop by and visit. I was especially amused
at David Hansons Krum-Caka story. It seems Kathy Carlson devised a new
method of pressing it.
------------------------
Every once in a while I get the feeling I just have to say what I
think. I guess it happens once in a while to Tom as well.
He wrote: Subject: WHAT IN THE WORLD!
Gary.
I am not very good with words but I'll try!
What in the world is going on? Every time I turn around it seems to me
that we are selling off our country. It probably started a long time ago
but here is what I have noticed lately, First gas hits three dollars,
then we try to give control of our major ports to more camel jockeys and
now we have to give up the basic freedom to carry toothpaste on an
airplane! I am sick of this crap. On top of that we are trying to sell
GM to Toyota and all of our local business's seem to be closing there
doors! Last time I checked, milk in St. Thomas was $5 a gallon, in the
big city to the South it was $2.75. What in the world? No wonder
people can't make it any longer! I am tired of local leaders wanting
more money for unneeded things! When will it stop? It will stop when
everybody moves to bigger cities drives Toyota's and don't give a crap
about anything or anybody anymore! This country was made Great by "we
the people" not I the Person!!!!!!!!!!! I believe the terrorists of
the world are winning because they have changed almost every simple
freedom we have! They can keep doing what they do but we have to adjust!
Boy I hope I don't run into one soon as I am quite sure he/she won't
like what I have to say.
All that said, There are a lot of awesome people in the world of every
race creed and color! I think we all need to rise up and take back what
is ours True Freedom granted to us by GOD! My challenge to the
rest of the world is WHAT IN THE WORLD are you doing to make it better
for everyone TODAY!, Not just yourself!
Thanks, Gary
Good luck Fishing,
Tom Kennelly
701-520-3040 <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Tom. It is a
fact. "It's not what we do for ourselves, rather, it's what we do for
others that makes "our" country so great." Or so it seems to me.
------------------------
Exchanging thoughts and ideas, and, sharing a bit of ones own world
with others, is what the Gazette is all about. Avis (Brateng) O'Leary,
accomplished all of that with the following note.
Avis wrote: >>> Hi Gary:
Eileen Greevy Prouty from Grafton and her husband Harlyn emailed
me a copy of the Skeeterville Gazette newsletter about GRAFTON
FLORAL.
I enjoyed reading it and recognized many names and loved remembering
all those occasions you talked about in Grafton. I especially
remember Chandler Field and going to sleep with those ball games still
going on at night.
I am the youngest of 9 children--the Brateng family who lived at 905
Prospect Avenue. At the time I lived there five of my brothers and
sister had married and most were living in Washington State and
Oregon. My parents were Bert and Eva Brateng. My dad died in
Grafton in 1950 from cancer. My Mom and I subsequently moved to DC
where I had a job on Capitol Hill -- little did I know I would stay
working there for the next 25 years! Mom later moved to Oregon where
she lived for 25 years before she died.
When I was 12 years of age I would baby sit you and " Doddle
Bug" while your Mom and Dad had a night out. I remember your parents
were so nice and very generous in paying me $2.00 for the
evening. That was great money for a poverty stricken 12 year
old! It was also my first job and I was on my way to becoming a
independent entrepreneur. Oh by the way you 2 boys could be a hand
full sometimes, but I managed to keep up and loved you both dearly.
I live in Columbia, SC with my husband Tim who was a residential
builder-developer until he retired 2 years ago. We left DC and came
south to live and start building in this location.
I was in Grafton this past June 25th to see my sister Bea Johnson
and her husband Kenny and family. We attended Our Saviours Lutheran
Church 125th Anniversary celebration and saw some of the people from the
class reunion--unfortunately our flight from SC was delayed and we
missed the street dance and country club reception.
Thanks for writing the newsletter Gary, and please put me on your
email list for further editions.
Thanks and God Bless you and yours, Avis Brateng O'Leary
<<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Avis. In an earlier Gazette
I mentioned that it was your brother Darrel along with Mike Staffne and
Ron Radford that taught me how to chew snuff. I believe I was 5 years
old at the time. That, may have been one of the reasons you didn't find
me quite as docile as some of the other neighborhood kids. And, I am
pleased to welcome you to the Gazette family.
-------------------------
Kris Stewart and Tammy Henriksen will also become new members of the
Gazette family. Please feel free to share a part of your world with us.
--------------------------
Jeff Hanson sent the following note just this morning. >>> Subject:
business
Dear Gary,
I felt the need to respond to a reference that was in one of last
week's gazettes about Hanson Auto & Implement.
The reference was made in your column pertaining to the closing of
Johnson Sales and Heritage Sales and Leasing. The reference was
that Hanson Auto & Imp. had let five employees go due to the same
economic pressures that caused the other two businesses to close. A
person with a very vivid imagination could make the assumption that
Hanson Auto & Imp. is next in line for the same fate.
Our family owned dealership has an employee count that rages from 65
to 70 employees depending on the time of year and an annual payroll in
excess of 4 million dollars that circulates throughout our
communities. Yes, we have turnover, sometimes employees leave to
better themselves, some times they need to be replace by some one more
capable. The jobs are filled, not eliminated!
Gary, I do appreciate your concern for the well-being of the entire
community and I do know that no harm was meant by the comments that were
made. Truth be told, we are doing business in the same economy that
others have struggled in. When times are tough, we struggle as well.
But I do believe in the people of Grafton along with the surrounding
communities and we plan on being a full service provider of automotive
and agricultural retail sales, parts, and service for years and years
to come!
Jeff Hanson
Brian Hanson
Bonnie Hanson Yantes
~~~~~~~~~~~
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Jeff. Of course my comments
weren't intended to harm, rather, as a wakeup call to the wonderful
people of "our" community. "Use it or lose it", should become the
by-line for which we all function.
"It is the responsibility of those who's destiny relies on people. To
make certain the people they rely on, share the same destiny." GLM
==================================
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.
August 10, 2006 - Thursday
08/10/06 THURSDAY
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by ZELDA
CAFE.
---------------------
The current temperature is 79 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 85/64
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/56
The forecast for the rest of the week sounds super for fish harvest.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff
-----------------------
Today is Grafton Floral Customer and Employee appreciation party.
Everyone is invited. The party starts at 3:00 with Goober's Gourmet
Gobbler feed starting at 5:00 this afternoon. Tony Osowski, a former
custodian of Grafton Floral's legacy, will also be on hand sharing
samples from his special wine collection.
------------------------
ZELDA CAFE: Medford O'Trembo began operating the cafe, then known as
Tremy's Sandwich Shop, in 1950. The cafe is located in the Zelda
building and was later sold to Ted Hoffman, owner of the building, and
of the other businesses which are housed there. The cafe served
customers on a long horseshoe shaped counter, and includes a soda
fountain. The building originally housed the Purity Creamery.
------------------------
Tom Kutz shared the following:
>>> Hi Gary,
Hey, you asked about the P-51. I can't remember who bought it
but I do remember that it sat on the south side of the old school house
for awhile. We played on it as kids. I also remember that it was
towed to the airport for repairs. And didn't a fellow named Jacoby in
Grand forks have a P-51 for a time. Maybe it was the same one?
Congratulations to the floral shop on their 60th anniversary. 60
years is quite an accomplishment! I to remember when the shop was in
the old Heltne building on main street. The cut flower cooler was on
the North wall and if my memory serves me you use to walk kind of down
hill from the front door to get to it. Floors weren't to level.
Tom <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Tom. I'm hoping your
note will jog other memories as well.
You are certainly right about the "old" shop floor not being level. The
trim from the cooler you speak of was put on the overhang of our house
and remains there to this day.
-----------------------
The flower shop "celebration" and comments there of, gave Kathee
reason to share the following. >>>
I had to copy off today's edition of the Skeeterville Gazette and sit
down in a comfy chair to savor its contents. Even though my window of
time at Grafton Floral was relatively short, I recognized many of the
names. Once anyone came into the circle of the Grafton Floral family, he
or she never left. Bill was great at invoking the memory of past
employees and contacts and telling stories on himself and others.
I truly regret that I cannot be there to join in the celebration
tomorrow (Thursday). I sent a note to AK and have commissioned Dorothy
Wentz to pass along my greetings too. I ask that you drink it all in, in
your inimitable way, and give us a full report in a future edition of
the Gazette.
By the way, thank AK for supporting the turkey industry. My husband was
quite pleased.
All the best,
Kathee <<< Thanks a million Kathee, Rest assured your spirit will be
felt there. And, I too, feel there's nothing like a juicy gizzard and
turkey thigh as well.
----------------------
Marjie sent the following: Good morning Gary,
Congratulations on 60 years of business at Grafton Floral. I can't
think of a more pleasant way of affecting the lives of others than by
providing flowers to help celebrate the happy moments or to console at
the sad ones.
Marjie <<< Thanks a million Marjie, it looks like you and I think
alot alike.
-----------------------
Barbara Whelan sent this note. >>>
Gary:
Today's Gazette, filled with your memories of Grafton Floral, is the
very reason that I enjoy your writing so much. I love the history and
the memories, and the life lessons that are interwoven therein.
Thanks to YOU for sharing.
Barb Whelan <<< Thank you Barb, for caring and sharing.
------------------------
Remember the "new" rules at the immigration dept the other day? (Press
1 if you speak English OR, press 2 and hang up if you don't.) This next
note is in response to that. >>> Hi Gary,
Just a short note on the immigration issue.......working for
Continental airlines here in AZ, we run into all kinds of people from
all over the world and for the most part have no problems. However,
twice in just the last week, a couple of my coworkers have been accused
of not giving good customer service because they do not speak
Spanish.... My answer to this is I live in the United States of America,
and speak ENGLISH, the official language of our country. I do not
consider it bad customer service, because I do not know how to speak
Spanish or any other language. I would consider it a slap in the face to
have our official language changed as some people are pushing for. As
far as I am concerned if you want to live in this country and receive
the benefits from living in this country you should take a que from most
of our ancestors and learn to speak the language.
Your cousin Mary in AZ <<< Thanks a million Mary. It sure looks like you
and I are signing from the same song book.
----------------------
Ralph shared the following thoughts after reading about our sudden
reduction in retail sales businesses. >>>
Gary, sorry to read about the business closings and changes. On the
bright side, can you imagine two finer clothing stores anywhere than
Mary's and the Squire Shop. Starting out at the great height of 5 ft 8
in at 6:30 in the mornings, my recent and continuing "back problems"
have now left me 2 plus inches shorter. I have shopped from here to
Mpls. to South Bend. There isn't a finer mens store in terms of both
quality and service than the Squire Shop. Rita's choice of clothing she
offers is tremendous. When it comes to womens clothing the same can be
said for both of them. This economy must be hard on them, too. So, their
continuing success can only be because of the management. That is not to
say that the recent closings and changes were because of management.
Some times the economy simply overwhelms us. I hope my statements don't
become a curse on either of them. It would be a sad downtown without
either of them. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Ralph. I
certainly agree with your comments as well. Although I might take the
opportunity to remind us all. "We ARE the economy". Or so it seems to
me.
-----------------------
I'm not sure if it's been 20 or 30 or 40 years since I've seen Lyle
LaMont. I was pleased to see him this morning at Granny's. It sounds
like he'll be spending several days here this trip, and, maybe next
spring, before it gets to hot, he plans to move back to North Dakota
sorta perminant. I sure hope Arnold S. doesn't find out his economy is
shrinking.
------------------------
It appears as though the weather for combing (walleye combing) has been
about as good as one could hope for. So, without further ado, that's
what I'll do.
==================================
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.
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by ZELDA
CAFE.
---------------------
The current temperature is 79 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 85/64
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/56
The forecast for the rest of the week sounds super for fish harvest.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff
-----------------------
Today is Grafton Floral Customer and Employee appreciation party.
Everyone is invited. The party starts at 3:00 with Goober's Gourmet
Gobbler feed starting at 5:00 this afternoon. Tony Osowski, a former
custodian of Grafton Floral's legacy, will also be on hand sharing
samples from his special wine collection.
------------------------
ZELDA CAFE: Medford O'Trembo began operating the cafe, then known as
Tremy's Sandwich Shop, in 1950. The cafe is located in the Zelda
building and was later sold to Ted Hoffman, owner of the building, and
of the other businesses which are housed there. The cafe served
customers on a long horseshoe shaped counter, and includes a soda
fountain. The building originally housed the Purity Creamery.
------------------------
Tom Kutz shared the following:
>>> Hi Gary,
Hey, you asked about the P-51. I can't remember who bought it
but I do remember that it sat on the south side of the old school house
for awhile. We played on it as kids. I also remember that it was
towed to the airport for repairs. And didn't a fellow named Jacoby in
Grand forks have a P-51 for a time. Maybe it was the same one?
Congratulations to the floral shop on their 60th anniversary. 60
years is quite an accomplishment! I to remember when the shop was in
the old Heltne building on main street. The cut flower cooler was on
the North wall and if my memory serves me you use to walk kind of down
hill from the front door to get to it. Floors weren't to level.
Tom <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Tom. I'm hoping your
note will jog other memories as well.
You are certainly right about the "old" shop floor not being level. The
trim from the cooler you speak of was put on the overhang of our house
and remains there to this day.
-----------------------
The flower shop "celebration" and comments there of, gave Kathee
reason to share the following. >>>
I had to copy off today's edition of the Skeeterville Gazette and sit
down in a comfy chair to savor its contents. Even though my window of
time at Grafton Floral was relatively short, I recognized many of the
names. Once anyone came into the circle of the Grafton Floral family, he
or she never left. Bill was great at invoking the memory of past
employees and contacts and telling stories on himself and others.
I truly regret that I cannot be there to join in the celebration
tomorrow (Thursday). I sent a note to AK and have commissioned Dorothy
Wentz to pass along my greetings too. I ask that you drink it all in, in
your inimitable way, and give us a full report in a future edition of
the Gazette.
By the way, thank AK for supporting the turkey industry. My husband was
quite pleased.
All the best,
Kathee <<< Thanks a million Kathee, Rest assured your spirit will be
felt there. And, I too, feel there's nothing like a juicy gizzard and
turkey thigh as well.
----------------------
Marjie sent the following: Good morning Gary,
Congratulations on 60 years of business at Grafton Floral. I can't
think of a more pleasant way of affecting the lives of others than by
providing flowers to help celebrate the happy moments or to console at
the sad ones.
Marjie <<< Thanks a million Marjie, it looks like you and I think
alot alike.
-----------------------
Barbara Whelan sent this note. >>>
Gary:
Today's Gazette, filled with your memories of Grafton Floral, is the
very reason that I enjoy your writing so much. I love the history and
the memories, and the life lessons that are interwoven therein.
Thanks to YOU for sharing.
Barb Whelan <<< Thank you Barb, for caring and sharing.
------------------------
Remember the "new" rules at the immigration dept the other day? (Press
1 if you speak English OR, press 2 and hang up if you don't.) This next
note is in response to that. >>> Hi Gary,
Just a short note on the immigration issue.......working for
Continental airlines here in AZ, we run into all kinds of people from
all over the world and for the most part have no problems. However,
twice in just the last week, a couple of my coworkers have been accused
of not giving good customer service because they do not speak
Spanish.... My answer to this is I live in the United States of America,
and speak ENGLISH, the official language of our country. I do not
consider it bad customer service, because I do not know how to speak
Spanish or any other language. I would consider it a slap in the face to
have our official language changed as some people are pushing for. As
far as I am concerned if you want to live in this country and receive
the benefits from living in this country you should take a que from most
of our ancestors and learn to speak the language.
Your cousin Mary in AZ <<< Thanks a million Mary. It sure looks like you
and I are signing from the same song book.
----------------------
Ralph shared the following thoughts after reading about our sudden
reduction in retail sales businesses. >>>
Gary, sorry to read about the business closings and changes. On the
bright side, can you imagine two finer clothing stores anywhere than
Mary's and the Squire Shop. Starting out at the great height of 5 ft 8
in at 6:30 in the mornings, my recent and continuing "back problems"
have now left me 2 plus inches shorter. I have shopped from here to
Mpls. to South Bend. There isn't a finer mens store in terms of both
quality and service than the Squire Shop. Rita's choice of clothing she
offers is tremendous. When it comes to womens clothing the same can be
said for both of them. This economy must be hard on them, too. So, their
continuing success can only be because of the management. That is not to
say that the recent closings and changes were because of management.
Some times the economy simply overwhelms us. I hope my statements don't
become a curse on either of them. It would be a sad downtown without
either of them. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Ralph. I
certainly agree with your comments as well. Although I might take the
opportunity to remind us all. "We ARE the economy". Or so it seems to
me.
-----------------------
I'm not sure if it's been 20 or 30 or 40 years since I've seen Lyle
LaMont. I was pleased to see him this morning at Granny's. It sounds
like he'll be spending several days here this trip, and, maybe next
spring, before it gets to hot, he plans to move back to North Dakota
sorta perminant. I sure hope Arnold S. doesn't find out his economy is
shrinking.
------------------------
It appears as though the weather for combing (walleye combing) has been
about as good as one could hope for. So, without further ado, that's
what I'll do.
==================================
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.
August 9, 2006 - Wednesday
08/09/06 WEDNESDAY
--------------------
Todays Gazette is made possible by GRAFTON FLORAL and, by the hundreds
of wonderful people that have made Grafton Floral possible.
---------------------
The current temperature is 81 degrees
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 88/58
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/56
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance possible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
Todays Gazette may well be one of the most difficult I have written,
and, I'm almost certain one of the most difficult for folks to read and
understand. It won't surprise me that many may not even be able to read
it completely.
For several days now, I have pondered the upcoming 60th year
celebration of Grafton Floral. Last night I found it nearly impossible
to sleep. For the past several days, almost everything I did or touched
reminded me in someway, shape or form of the business that is
responsible for my being.
To that end, today's Gazette will be written, to the best of my
ability, much like the thoughts of the past 60 years of Grafton Floral
have emerged from my warehouse of memories. Not, as a true and accurate
chronological diary, rather a capitulation of people and events that
span the 524,160 hours we will celebrate this Thursday, August 10th from
5 to 8:00 in the southeast corner of Grafton at Summit and tenth street,
across from Chandler field.
The first "delivery" vehicle I remember was an early model grey
Chevrolet. The front seat was burned out and I had to sit on a 5 gallon
pail. I thought of Marilyn Hove riding on our float, it was the most
beautiful floral display on a float this area has ever seen. Heltne's
Harness Shop was the first home of Grafton Floral on mainstreet.
I remember Ralph Honsval leaving the uptown flower shop with a armful
of lose flowers and mom giving dad heck for not wrapping them. I
remember the Heltne attic full of white wicker standing baskets used for
weddings and funerals. I thought of the times we would tie miles of
fresh spruce garlands to decorate mainstreet for the Christmas holidays.
I thought of how dad and mom enjoyed watching the neon Grafton Floral
sign light up at dusk and how proud they were to have a business on main
street.
Seeding grass by hand with a Sears 12 foot box seeder. Hulda Carlson's
garden patch on the north end of town. Ed Nelson lived next door. I
remember learning to ball & burlape evergreens with Ed Ebertowski and
Everett Nelson. Plugging (adding branches) christmas trees. Putting on
the wiring and stringing up the moms and pompoms in the south greenhouse
benches with Sharon McIntyre & Shirley Rae Blanchard. Building benches
with Lewis Sondeland. Trying to keep the greenhouses from freezing
brought George LaHaise, Hugo Kutz, Arnold Roth, Arnold Orsund to mind.
Cleaning under the benches brings Jim Almen and Pat Devig Bill and
Denton Offutt back to mind. Planting trees throughout the area envolved
Warren Wilson, Neil McDonald among others. It's hard not to think of the
busy Mothers Day weekends and all the people that worked so hard to make
so many happy on that special day. Often, as many as 25 and 30 people
worked 12 to 20 hours a day the Thursday, Friday and Saturday before
Mothers day. Theresa, Leona, Winnie, Sharon, Bennie, Don, Larry, Robert,
Gerald, Rodney, Jerome & Mamie, Debbie, MaryJo, Sandy, Carol, Mary,
David, Kathee, Jim, John, Andy, Rudy, Ronnie, Gen, Chuck, Pat, Roger,
Stella, Ann, Lowell, Jon, Rosemary, Art, Judy, Barbara, Jean, Helen,
Bernice, Orlan, Glenn, Jason and Norman are some of the names that keep
bouncing around in my head.
The day Bennie Molde stacked over 400 corsages and several bouquets
into the 51 Ford "woodie" and headed for Drayton, St. Thomas and
Cavalier will forever be etched in my memory. Melvin Thompson, Clayton
Cudmore, Almer Bjerke and Bob Kingsbury all hauled soil to us for
planting the spring bedding plants and nursery stock. Initially Melvin
Thompson did the ground preperations for new construction. Later Bob
Oihus took over that business and worked hand in hand with "us". I
thought of the time dad and Clayton Cudmore worked together to aquire
the rest area landscaping job on the site west of Devils Lake.
I remember the time (during a mothers rush) Jen Hvidsten walked into
the flower shop late at night to help us out. She told mom it would be
OK, that Carl was "napping" and didn't know she left the house. I guess
Carl didn't think his wife should have to work. (and, she didn't have
to, she did because she loved it)
I remember Justin Colsen jumping up on the greenhouse bench and doing
pull ups (with 5 buckel overshoes on) from the roof trusses when he was
at least a dozen years older than I am,... NOW. I thought of the time in
late March when the boiler went out and we had to heat the greenhouse by
burning paper and cardboard boxes til Hugo could get the boiler fixed.
And, the spring dad hired a professional gardener from England to work
for "us". That venture, we soon learned, was a super idea,.. but it
didn't work out. John Stewart, it seems was used to growing plants in a
completely differant environment then we had.
I thought of the day we got rid of the 51 Ford "Woodie" replacing it
with a 1960 blue Ford wagon, the one Pat and I used for our wedding
trip. The little house, the one we live in for several years, the one
with "pea rock" by the front door, and, the one Arnold Barclay lived in
for a time, activates my grey matter as often as any.
At one time, Grafton Floral was one of the largest Toro equipment
dealers in the area, and, was the largest Scotts Lawn Products dealer in
the state. That reminded me of my trip to Marysville Ohio to train and
learn about Scotts in their main headquarters facilities.
I still can't drive by a piece of paper in the ditch that I don't
think of dad "driving" around town picking litter with his cane and
throwing it in the back of the station wagon. I'll never forget the
numorous times people, with less than us, would come into the shop to
order funeral or wedding flowers and dad would write the orders up just
like any of the rest, then, when those folks would leave, dad would
scratch off the price and write "paid in full" on the slip. Even now,
after 40 and 50 years, some folks still remind me of that.
Sixty (60) years, for some reason, it doesn't really seem that long to
me today. 60 years, if only I could remember it all. If only I could say
thank you,... just one more time, to all of the wonderful people
responcible for allowing Grafton Floral to celebrate such an event. If
only my Dad & Mom and Peggy could see it now. Sixty years, fortunately,
I remember much of it. Ufortunately, however, not all.
I remember hundreds of smiles as I delivered "our" beautiful product to
their door. I will never forget the many times we were able to share
peoples saddness while bringing beauty into their lives. Nor will I
forget the times we would give Christmas trees to families that thought
"Christmas" was only for the wealthy.
I hope all those that can, will stop by Grafton Floral and Greenhouse
tomorrow (Thursday, August 10) from 5 to 8:00 pm. Goober (Joey Watkins)
and AK have assured me that the turkey, with all the fixins, will be
scrumptious. I've been told Tony Osowski's wine is as close to the
"nector of the god's" as man can ever make it, and, Andrew and Jacqui
will be extremely pleased to have you as their guest.
CONGRATULATIONS Jacqui and AK Moe. Thank you for continuing to make
Grafton Floral and Greenhouse's founders proud. We are both looking
forward to partcipating in this significant milestone.
Pat and Gary
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
"If you never share your memories, they will be lost forever." GLM
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
--------------------
Todays Gazette is made possible by GRAFTON FLORAL and, by the hundreds
of wonderful people that have made Grafton Floral possible.
---------------------
The current temperature is 81 degrees
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 88/58
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/56
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance possible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
Todays Gazette may well be one of the most difficult I have written,
and, I'm almost certain one of the most difficult for folks to read and
understand. It won't surprise me that many may not even be able to read
it completely.
For several days now, I have pondered the upcoming 60th year
celebration of Grafton Floral. Last night I found it nearly impossible
to sleep. For the past several days, almost everything I did or touched
reminded me in someway, shape or form of the business that is
responsible for my being.
To that end, today's Gazette will be written, to the best of my
ability, much like the thoughts of the past 60 years of Grafton Floral
have emerged from my warehouse of memories. Not, as a true and accurate
chronological diary, rather a capitulation of people and events that
span the 524,160 hours we will celebrate this Thursday, August 10th from
5 to 8:00 in the southeast corner of Grafton at Summit and tenth street,
across from Chandler field.
The first "delivery" vehicle I remember was an early model grey
Chevrolet. The front seat was burned out and I had to sit on a 5 gallon
pail. I thought of Marilyn Hove riding on our float, it was the most
beautiful floral display on a float this area has ever seen. Heltne's
Harness Shop was the first home of Grafton Floral on mainstreet.
I remember Ralph Honsval leaving the uptown flower shop with a armful
of lose flowers and mom giving dad heck for not wrapping them. I
remember the Heltne attic full of white wicker standing baskets used for
weddings and funerals. I thought of the times we would tie miles of
fresh spruce garlands to decorate mainstreet for the Christmas holidays.
I thought of how dad and mom enjoyed watching the neon Grafton Floral
sign light up at dusk and how proud they were to have a business on main
street.
Seeding grass by hand with a Sears 12 foot box seeder. Hulda Carlson's
garden patch on the north end of town. Ed Nelson lived next door. I
remember learning to ball & burlape evergreens with Ed Ebertowski and
Everett Nelson. Plugging (adding branches) christmas trees. Putting on
the wiring and stringing up the moms and pompoms in the south greenhouse
benches with Sharon McIntyre & Shirley Rae Blanchard. Building benches
with Lewis Sondeland. Trying to keep the greenhouses from freezing
brought George LaHaise, Hugo Kutz, Arnold Roth, Arnold Orsund to mind.
Cleaning under the benches brings Jim Almen and Pat Devig Bill and
Denton Offutt back to mind. Planting trees throughout the area envolved
Warren Wilson, Neil McDonald among others. It's hard not to think of the
busy Mothers Day weekends and all the people that worked so hard to make
so many happy on that special day. Often, as many as 25 and 30 people
worked 12 to 20 hours a day the Thursday, Friday and Saturday before
Mothers day. Theresa, Leona, Winnie, Sharon, Bennie, Don, Larry, Robert,
Gerald, Rodney, Jerome & Mamie, Debbie, MaryJo, Sandy, Carol, Mary,
David, Kathee, Jim, John, Andy, Rudy, Ronnie, Gen, Chuck, Pat, Roger,
Stella, Ann, Lowell, Jon, Rosemary, Art, Judy, Barbara, Jean, Helen,
Bernice, Orlan, Glenn, Jason and Norman are some of the names that keep
bouncing around in my head.
The day Bennie Molde stacked over 400 corsages and several bouquets
into the 51 Ford "woodie" and headed for Drayton, St. Thomas and
Cavalier will forever be etched in my memory. Melvin Thompson, Clayton
Cudmore, Almer Bjerke and Bob Kingsbury all hauled soil to us for
planting the spring bedding plants and nursery stock. Initially Melvin
Thompson did the ground preperations for new construction. Later Bob
Oihus took over that business and worked hand in hand with "us". I
thought of the time dad and Clayton Cudmore worked together to aquire
the rest area landscaping job on the site west of Devils Lake.
I remember the time (during a mothers rush) Jen Hvidsten walked into
the flower shop late at night to help us out. She told mom it would be
OK, that Carl was "napping" and didn't know she left the house. I guess
Carl didn't think his wife should have to work. (and, she didn't have
to, she did because she loved it)
I remember Justin Colsen jumping up on the greenhouse bench and doing
pull ups (with 5 buckel overshoes on) from the roof trusses when he was
at least a dozen years older than I am,... NOW. I thought of the time in
late March when the boiler went out and we had to heat the greenhouse by
burning paper and cardboard boxes til Hugo could get the boiler fixed.
And, the spring dad hired a professional gardener from England to work
for "us". That venture, we soon learned, was a super idea,.. but it
didn't work out. John Stewart, it seems was used to growing plants in a
completely differant environment then we had.
I thought of the day we got rid of the 51 Ford "Woodie" replacing it
with a 1960 blue Ford wagon, the one Pat and I used for our wedding
trip. The little house, the one we live in for several years, the one
with "pea rock" by the front door, and, the one Arnold Barclay lived in
for a time, activates my grey matter as often as any.
At one time, Grafton Floral was one of the largest Toro equipment
dealers in the area, and, was the largest Scotts Lawn Products dealer in
the state. That reminded me of my trip to Marysville Ohio to train and
learn about Scotts in their main headquarters facilities.
I still can't drive by a piece of paper in the ditch that I don't
think of dad "driving" around town picking litter with his cane and
throwing it in the back of the station wagon. I'll never forget the
numorous times people, with less than us, would come into the shop to
order funeral or wedding flowers and dad would write the orders up just
like any of the rest, then, when those folks would leave, dad would
scratch off the price and write "paid in full" on the slip. Even now,
after 40 and 50 years, some folks still remind me of that.
Sixty (60) years, for some reason, it doesn't really seem that long to
me today. 60 years, if only I could remember it all. If only I could say
thank you,... just one more time, to all of the wonderful people
responcible for allowing Grafton Floral to celebrate such an event. If
only my Dad & Mom and Peggy could see it now. Sixty years, fortunately,
I remember much of it. Ufortunately, however, not all.
I remember hundreds of smiles as I delivered "our" beautiful product to
their door. I will never forget the many times we were able to share
peoples saddness while bringing beauty into their lives. Nor will I
forget the times we would give Christmas trees to families that thought
"Christmas" was only for the wealthy.
I hope all those that can, will stop by Grafton Floral and Greenhouse
tomorrow (Thursday, August 10) from 5 to 8:00 pm. Goober (Joey Watkins)
and AK have assured me that the turkey, with all the fixins, will be
scrumptious. I've been told Tony Osowski's wine is as close to the
"nector of the god's" as man can ever make it, and, Andrew and Jacqui
will be extremely pleased to have you as their guest.
CONGRATULATIONS Jacqui and AK Moe. Thank you for continuing to make
Grafton Floral and Greenhouse's founders proud. We are both looking
forward to partcipating in this significant milestone.
Pat and Gary
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
"If you never share your memories, they will be lost forever." GLM
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
August 8, 2006 - Tuesday
08/08/06 TUESDAY
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by our youngest son Brad. On this day
34 years ago, only seconds after he was born. Dr. Eaton put Brad in one
of those fancy glass covered "bassinet's" in the delivery room. Before
we knew it, Brad had shaken his "new bed" halfway across the delivery
room floor. Except to eat,.. Brad hasn't slowed down a bit since.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRADLEY ALLEN
You have made your Mom & Dad, and your entire family very proud.
---------------------
The current temperature is 86 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 85/47
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/56
The forecast for the remainder of the week is for seasonal weather. We
won't know for certain what season,.. til the end of the week.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
---------------------
The former Robertson Lumber Company coal bins are slowly disappearing.
Two energetic fellows were tearing down the roof on part of it this
afternoon. I haven't heard what will replace the structure, if anything.
It will certainly open up another large area in the down town area for
sailboat fuel to flourish.
----------------------
I received the following yesterday. Most will agree, it's short, and
to the point.
>>> GOOD MORNING,
WELCOME TO THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Press "1" for English.
OR,...
Press "2" to disconnect until you
Learn to speak English.
~~~~~~~~~~
I'm guessing there are some out there that take exception to the new
immigration policy listed above. I don't!
-----------------------
Another response to the never ending saga of Grafton's northern
Newman's nuisance notes of late. >>> Hey, I read the comments about my
comments in the Gazette and I'm not jealous of Mr. Newman's success in
the least, nor do I dislike him because of it. I'm happy for anyone who
makes a success of themselves and applaud them for it. But I do get
weary of businesses that take the profits but expect the government
(read that the taxpayers of this country) to come behind them and bail
them out of an environmental mess. I'm sure other towns in the area
would welcome an ethanol plant like the writer suggests, but I'm also
thinking they would ask, no, probably demand that the smell not keep
them indoors during the summer. I wasn't suggesting that we kill the
goose, just that the goose take care of it's own nest and not expect
everyone else to do that for them. I don't think the taxpayers should
expect less than that from any business that wants to be a good
neighbor. <<< Thanks a million for caring. I think your point of view
shows much merit.
-----------------------
I still haven't received anything on the P-51 Mustang fighter that was
originally parked at Graftons airport. Perhaps those that might know
were on vacation when I sent out the first "question" about it.
So,... the Readers Digest Version. Does anyone know or remember who
bought the P-51 Mustang fighter plane that was given to Grafton shortly
after the war?
------------------------
Getting John to write anything is nothing short of a miracle. So, I
wanted to be sure to share it ASAP. John wrote: >>>
Lee Gudajtes had a baby boy Friday, August 4. He weighed in
at 8 pounds 8oz and was 22 inches long.
Tony Gudajtes,.. a Bremer Banker, got stuck with the combine on
Saturday when he fell into a 4 foot wash out 1 mile south of Ardoch.
Happy
fishing
Big John
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Congratulations Heidi and Lee. I can't be absolutely certain, but I'm
guessing John will be more that happy to babysit the little tyke.....
after he finishes Tony's combine driving lessons.
-----------------------
Just about the time "we" think we have the Camel Jockies jacking up
fuel prices under control. BP tells us they'll be shutting down the
Alaska pipe line. Then we find out they "forgot" to put stuff in the
pipes to keep them from filling up with crud,... as apposed to crude
(pardon the pun).
ANYWAY, the end result of BP's practices is higher gas prices. I guess
BP stands for "bigger prices". It'll cost Graftonites 3 dollar and a
dime to put a gallon of gas in their lawn mower. I guess Simonsons
really did know what they were doing when they bought out "our" local BP
gas station.
O well,... unfortunately not oil well.
-------------------------
The Gazette subscription department sent down the following requests
for new members of the Gazette family.
>>> Hi Gary. I was with Denton and Sandy Offutt at the lake and
they indicated they would like to be a subscriber. Thanks, Kim
<<< We are pleased to welcome and have Sandy and Denton in the family.
Thanks a million Kim, for helping our family grow.
The next note comes from Goober Watkins. He wrote: >>> Greetings
Editor, This is for David Wosick. Remember him? He used to live on the
corner of 8th and Cooper. He married Rodney Webb's daughter Cristi. He
would like to be added to the Gazette family. Thanks Gary, see you on
thursday. Goober. <<< Thank you Goober and I'm happy to welcome Heidi
and David to our flock. If memory serves me, David's father and I often
shared rides to Drayton for a time during the mid sixties. Heidi's
father, Rodney Webb was the states attorney during a trial that Pat and
I were defendants even earlier than that. Disney was right, it is a
small world.
----------------------
This weeks Grafton Volunteer Firefighters Calendar Draw winners are:
8/7/06 Grafton Volunteer Fire Department from Wally and Ione DeSautel
$20
8/8/06 Chris J Johnson $20
8/9/06 Carole DeSautel $20
8/10/06 Mary Jensen $20
8/11/06 Marvin Stengrim $20
8/12/06 Angel E Comacho $20
8/13/06 Sarah Palm $20
Congratulations to all of this weeks lucky winner.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by our youngest son Brad. On this day
34 years ago, only seconds after he was born. Dr. Eaton put Brad in one
of those fancy glass covered "bassinet's" in the delivery room. Before
we knew it, Brad had shaken his "new bed" halfway across the delivery
room floor. Except to eat,.. Brad hasn't slowed down a bit since.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRADLEY ALLEN
You have made your Mom & Dad, and your entire family very proud.
---------------------
The current temperature is 86 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 85/47
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/56
The forecast for the remainder of the week is for seasonal weather. We
won't know for certain what season,.. til the end of the week.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
---------------------
The former Robertson Lumber Company coal bins are slowly disappearing.
Two energetic fellows were tearing down the roof on part of it this
afternoon. I haven't heard what will replace the structure, if anything.
It will certainly open up another large area in the down town area for
sailboat fuel to flourish.
----------------------
I received the following yesterday. Most will agree, it's short, and
to the point.
>>> GOOD MORNING,
WELCOME TO THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Press "1" for English.
OR,...
Press "2" to disconnect until you
Learn to speak English.
~~~~~~~~~~
I'm guessing there are some out there that take exception to the new
immigration policy listed above. I don't!
-----------------------
Another response to the never ending saga of Grafton's northern
Newman's nuisance notes of late. >>> Hey, I read the comments about my
comments in the Gazette and I'm not jealous of Mr. Newman's success in
the least, nor do I dislike him because of it. I'm happy for anyone who
makes a success of themselves and applaud them for it. But I do get
weary of businesses that take the profits but expect the government
(read that the taxpayers of this country) to come behind them and bail
them out of an environmental mess. I'm sure other towns in the area
would welcome an ethanol plant like the writer suggests, but I'm also
thinking they would ask, no, probably demand that the smell not keep
them indoors during the summer. I wasn't suggesting that we kill the
goose, just that the goose take care of it's own nest and not expect
everyone else to do that for them. I don't think the taxpayers should
expect less than that from any business that wants to be a good
neighbor. <<< Thanks a million for caring. I think your point of view
shows much merit.
-----------------------
I still haven't received anything on the P-51 Mustang fighter that was
originally parked at Graftons airport. Perhaps those that might know
were on vacation when I sent out the first "question" about it.
So,... the Readers Digest Version. Does anyone know or remember who
bought the P-51 Mustang fighter plane that was given to Grafton shortly
after the war?
------------------------
Getting John to write anything is nothing short of a miracle. So, I
wanted to be sure to share it ASAP. John wrote: >>>
Lee Gudajtes had a baby boy Friday, August 4. He weighed in
at 8 pounds 8oz and was 22 inches long.
Tony Gudajtes,.. a Bremer Banker, got stuck with the combine on
Saturday when he fell into a 4 foot wash out 1 mile south of Ardoch.
Happy
fishing
Big John
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Congratulations Heidi and Lee. I can't be absolutely certain, but I'm
guessing John will be more that happy to babysit the little tyke.....
after he finishes Tony's combine driving lessons.
-----------------------
Just about the time "we" think we have the Camel Jockies jacking up
fuel prices under control. BP tells us they'll be shutting down the
Alaska pipe line. Then we find out they "forgot" to put stuff in the
pipes to keep them from filling up with crud,... as apposed to crude
(pardon the pun).
ANYWAY, the end result of BP's practices is higher gas prices. I guess
BP stands for "bigger prices". It'll cost Graftonites 3 dollar and a
dime to put a gallon of gas in their lawn mower. I guess Simonsons
really did know what they were doing when they bought out "our" local BP
gas station.
O well,... unfortunately not oil well.
-------------------------
The Gazette subscription department sent down the following requests
for new members of the Gazette family.
>>> Hi Gary. I was with Denton and Sandy Offutt at the lake and
they indicated they would like to be a subscriber. Thanks, Kim
<<< We are pleased to welcome and have Sandy and Denton in the family.
Thanks a million Kim, for helping our family grow.
The next note comes from Goober Watkins. He wrote: >>> Greetings
Editor, This is for David Wosick. Remember him? He used to live on the
corner of 8th and Cooper. He married Rodney Webb's daughter Cristi. He
would like to be added to the Gazette family. Thanks Gary, see you on
thursday. Goober. <<< Thank you Goober and I'm happy to welcome Heidi
and David to our flock. If memory serves me, David's father and I often
shared rides to Drayton for a time during the mid sixties. Heidi's
father, Rodney Webb was the states attorney during a trial that Pat and
I were defendants even earlier than that. Disney was right, it is a
small world.
----------------------
This weeks Grafton Volunteer Firefighters Calendar Draw winners are:
8/7/06 Grafton Volunteer Fire Department from Wally and Ione DeSautel
$20
8/8/06 Chris J Johnson $20
8/9/06 Carole DeSautel $20
8/10/06 Mary Jensen $20
8/11/06 Marvin Stengrim $20
8/12/06 Angel E Comacho $20
8/13/06 Sarah Palm $20
Congratulations to all of this weeks lucky winner.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
August 7, 2006 - Monday
08/07/06 MONDAY
----------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by the members of the Lauzon family.
----------------------
The current temperature is 75 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 82/51
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/57
The bigger the hail stone,.. the bigger the dent. Or so it seems to me.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
FISHING, off the Rock:
Fishing this past week, as usual, has been fantastic. Several anglers
reported catching 29 to 31 inch Walleyes throughout the week. Some even
had trouble hooking fish small enough to keep. I didn't talk to one
group all week that didn't catch all they could eat, and more.
I didn't get my Walleye combine back in the water last week so we had
to eat fish caught from the previous week.
Saturday evening we (most folks at the resort) spent a hour or so
waiting for a storm to pass thru the area. High winds with hail the size
of golf balls, and larger, accompanied by 2.25 inches of rain in less
than an hour was the major reason for the Rock Harbor Lodge "open
house".
Arnesen's Rocky Point Resort was more fortunate than the Northern edge
of Warroad, just across the bay. A tornado, the worst one in recorded
history, past over the playground/swimming pool area as well as the
north campground leaving little more than rubble and memories for those
involved. I'm not aware of any serious injuries, for which we are all
very happy. Some may remember the log cabin "gift shop" that "used" the
be by the lake on the north end of town. Most of it, and all of it's
inventory is now somewhere in the waters of the Lake of the Woods.
-----------------------
When we returned home last evening, I discovered that the Lake of the
Woods wasn't the only place experiencing "turmoil".
Rumor has it, that Johnson's used car dealership, on the west side of
town, has closed. Then I heard that Heritage sales and leasing closed
their doors. Then, like I didn't already have enough bad news, I heard
that Hanson's auto & implement found it necessary to lay off 5 people.
When, I wonder, will the lunacy end. I understand their is a drive
underway to increase sales tax in town by 1 percent. It is quite
possible that, if the business community doesn't soon wake up, there
won't be any businesses left in town to collect the tax.
Before "we" can expect benefit from economic development, it is
absolutely imperative that "we" protect and develop "our" present
economy.
The business community of Grafton, is destroying the business community
of Grafton through apathy and greed. Some have even suggested we may be
better off as a bedroom community. That it is better, easier, and, even
cheaper to purchase everything we need from the big city to the south.
One person told me "they" can "save" big money buying their groceries
and wares at a giant store in the big city.
Why then, I wonder, would a person want to live in "our" humble little
bedroom community, when they will pay 4 and 5 dollars a gallon for gas?
I wonder... How many of our "civic leaders" have truely put forth
effort into keeping existing businesses in town going. I wonder... Has
anyone, in city government or in the business community even considered
getting together to solve the serious issues that face small business
today? Use it, or lose it.
Often I've been told by business leaders that they would really like
to do something, but they are afraid if they do, they'll lose business
because of it. It looks to me like we can lose the war fighting for it,
or, we can do nothing and lose it anyway. Or so it seems to me.
-----------------------
The following note came in last week. It touches the same tune I sang
in the note above. >>> Gary
Grafton should be trying to get Newman to add on not give him grief
about trying to get a little gov. money. I'm sure every town in ND
would welcome him with large subsidies. Seems there is always
somebody that doesn't like somebody that is successful. We should
celebrate success. Don't kill one of the geese that lays the eggs,
the flock is getting to small now.
As far as the money going to Jamestown, all the banks in ND ship their
money to Minneapolis or San Francisco anyway. I guess they leave
enough to pay the help.
Better leave my name off <<<
And there's another thought, without a name.
Thanks for caring and sharing. I'm not totally sure where Newman is
trying to get his money. I suspect, anywhere he can.
----------------------
I "borrowed" the following from the April 19, 1945 Walsh County Record.
City Soldier Sends Souvenir to Nephew. A German accordion, picked
up in a pillbox recently by a Grafton Soldier serving in Germany, is now
in the possession of his nephew, Oscar Lauzon, who lives at McLoughlin
Heights, Wash.
The soldier who sent this souvenir home is Pfc. Lyle Nelson, son of
Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Nelson of Grafton. His wife, the former Bernice
Lauzon, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Albert Lauzon, former Grafton residents,
is making his home with his parents at McLoughlin Heights.
Pfc. Nelson entered the service in November, 1942, and has been
overseas since last August.
Aren't memories wonderful?
----------------------
Please help me welcome Dennis and Joy Buchholtz and Ron and Cyrilla
Demers to the Gazette family. I hope they will find time to share some
thoughts and some of their world with us.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
----------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by the members of the Lauzon family.
----------------------
The current temperature is 75 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 82/51
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/57
The bigger the hail stone,.. the bigger the dent. Or so it seems to me.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
FISHING, off the Rock:
Fishing this past week, as usual, has been fantastic. Several anglers
reported catching 29 to 31 inch Walleyes throughout the week. Some even
had trouble hooking fish small enough to keep. I didn't talk to one
group all week that didn't catch all they could eat, and more.
I didn't get my Walleye combine back in the water last week so we had
to eat fish caught from the previous week.
Saturday evening we (most folks at the resort) spent a hour or so
waiting for a storm to pass thru the area. High winds with hail the size
of golf balls, and larger, accompanied by 2.25 inches of rain in less
than an hour was the major reason for the Rock Harbor Lodge "open
house".
Arnesen's Rocky Point Resort was more fortunate than the Northern edge
of Warroad, just across the bay. A tornado, the worst one in recorded
history, past over the playground/swimming pool area as well as the
north campground leaving little more than rubble and memories for those
involved. I'm not aware of any serious injuries, for which we are all
very happy. Some may remember the log cabin "gift shop" that "used" the
be by the lake on the north end of town. Most of it, and all of it's
inventory is now somewhere in the waters of the Lake of the Woods.
-----------------------
When we returned home last evening, I discovered that the Lake of the
Woods wasn't the only place experiencing "turmoil".
Rumor has it, that Johnson's used car dealership, on the west side of
town, has closed. Then I heard that Heritage sales and leasing closed
their doors. Then, like I didn't already have enough bad news, I heard
that Hanson's auto & implement found it necessary to lay off 5 people.
When, I wonder, will the lunacy end. I understand their is a drive
underway to increase sales tax in town by 1 percent. It is quite
possible that, if the business community doesn't soon wake up, there
won't be any businesses left in town to collect the tax.
Before "we" can expect benefit from economic development, it is
absolutely imperative that "we" protect and develop "our" present
economy.
The business community of Grafton, is destroying the business community
of Grafton through apathy and greed. Some have even suggested we may be
better off as a bedroom community. That it is better, easier, and, even
cheaper to purchase everything we need from the big city to the south.
One person told me "they" can "save" big money buying their groceries
and wares at a giant store in the big city.
Why then, I wonder, would a person want to live in "our" humble little
bedroom community, when they will pay 4 and 5 dollars a gallon for gas?
I wonder... How many of our "civic leaders" have truely put forth
effort into keeping existing businesses in town going. I wonder... Has
anyone, in city government or in the business community even considered
getting together to solve the serious issues that face small business
today? Use it, or lose it.
Often I've been told by business leaders that they would really like
to do something, but they are afraid if they do, they'll lose business
because of it. It looks to me like we can lose the war fighting for it,
or, we can do nothing and lose it anyway. Or so it seems to me.
-----------------------
The following note came in last week. It touches the same tune I sang
in the note above. >>> Gary
Grafton should be trying to get Newman to add on not give him grief
about trying to get a little gov. money. I'm sure every town in ND
would welcome him with large subsidies. Seems there is always
somebody that doesn't like somebody that is successful. We should
celebrate success. Don't kill one of the geese that lays the eggs,
the flock is getting to small now.
As far as the money going to Jamestown, all the banks in ND ship their
money to Minneapolis or San Francisco anyway. I guess they leave
enough to pay the help.
Better leave my name off <<<
And there's another thought, without a name.
Thanks for caring and sharing. I'm not totally sure where Newman is
trying to get his money. I suspect, anywhere he can.
----------------------
I "borrowed" the following from the April 19, 1945 Walsh County Record.
City Soldier Sends Souvenir to Nephew. A German accordion, picked
up in a pillbox recently by a Grafton Soldier serving in Germany, is now
in the possession of his nephew, Oscar Lauzon, who lives at McLoughlin
Heights, Wash.
The soldier who sent this souvenir home is Pfc. Lyle Nelson, son of
Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Nelson of Grafton. His wife, the former Bernice
Lauzon, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Albert Lauzon, former Grafton residents,
is making his home with his parents at McLoughlin Heights.
Pfc. Nelson entered the service in November, 1942, and has been
overseas since last August.
Aren't memories wonderful?
----------------------
Please help me welcome Dennis and Joy Buchholtz and Ron and Cyrilla
Demers to the Gazette family. I hope they will find time to share some
thoughts and some of their world with us.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
August 1, 2006 - Tuesday
08/01/06 TUESDAY grp 5 of 20
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by
EMMA LYNN BJORNEBY
Christine & Christopher Bjorneby's brand new baby girl. CONGRATULATIONS
to mom and dad and to Joleen & Keith Bjorneby and Linda & David
Schumacher the proud grandparents of the pretty little sweetheart.
---------------------
The current temperature is 62 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 88/57
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/57
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
As I was partaking of the juice of the coffee bean this morning at
Granny's, I got to wondering. What ever happen to the little red wagon
Charlie Hann used to pull around Grafton.
I know his original Radio Flyer one was destroyed by a couple buffoons
that hijacked him in an alley. The one I'm thinking of, is the one Wayne
Coulthart built for Charlie.
I posed the question to a few guys Monday morning and one suggested
that it may well be in the Smithsonian Institute,... alongside Archie
Bunkers stuffed chair. To that I could only add,.. If it isn't, it
certainly could be.
Anyway, I'm thinking, if, it could be found, it certainly would be a
fitting addition to Grafton's Heritage Village collection of memorable
Grafton resident memorabilia.
~~~~~ Speaking of Heritage Village. I understand - from the page on
Graftons home channel three - that the "Village" is looking for four (4)
volunteers for it's board of Directors.
Then I got to thinking. Wouldn't it be fantastic if one or more of
those volunteers would also become a major monetary benefactor of the
Village.
Then I got to thinking. Had Ralph Engelstad grown up in Grafton, and,
had he been willing to "bequest" the significant dollars he did UND. The
future of "our" hospital, fire & ambulance, park & sports facilities,
and every house of worship in the community could enjoy perpetual
financial independent longevity. Or so it seems to me.
Then,... I was reminded of the letter to the editor a gentleman from
Park River wrote a while back. He mentioned something about Park River
not receiving anything from Marvins Windows last "appreciation" bonus.
THEN, I was reminded that, apparently, one of Park Rivers largest
business construction projects of late, namely their new medical
facility addition, didn't think it was important to use Marvins windows
in it and went else where for glass to keep out North Dakotas various
weather conditions,... not to mention the skeeters.
THEN, I got to wondering. Will "our" medical facilities be able to keep
pace with the growing technical demand of the times? Gosh I sure hope
so.
---------------------
Speaking of facilities. I mentioned something about the Alchem
operation yesterday and received the following in it's regard. >>>
I see you mentioned Alchem's smell in the Gazette. It appears this is
getting to be a pretty hot topic in Grafton from reading the Record.
Looking into my crystal ball (No pun intended) I see that in the future
the taxpayers will be called upon to fork over some tax money to help
get rid of the odors. The picture is still a little fuzzy, but what I
think I see is the owner implying (or maybe saying outright) that unless
someone (Read that YOU AND I) helps foot the bill to get the company
back into environmental compliance he will be forced to shut the doors
and lay off his employees, and stop buying corn from local farmers. So
(here's the part that comes through REAL CLEAR) city, county, state, or
federal government, or some combination of the four entities will decide
it's in the best interest of the public to keep the doors open, the
employees employed, and an outlet for the farmers corn open. So they
will find funds to "clear the air" so to speak for the Grafton
residents, at a cost to the taxpayers of a much larger area than the
strongest winds could ever blow the stench. Oh, and I think I see the
owner of Alchem laughing all the way to the bank. I'm not sure, but I
think it's a Jamestown bank, not a Grafton bank.
P.S.-- I wonder what % of the annual operating budget of the facility
has been earmarked for environmental issues the past, say 10 years.
P.P.S.-- I read an article this spring that spoke of all the new ethanol
plants being built, and it said that a new plant that cost $100 million
to build would pay for itself in ethanol production in less than one
year at current profit levels. I wonder what those facilities smell
like? <<<<
I don't know what I can add to that, except to say, I believe the
Gazette is still getting into the Chamber office and that of the Mayor
among many others.
-----------------------
Did I mention the Grafton Floral 60 year celebration? Have I mentioned
that even a few years before that, dad traveled the northern valley
selling nursery stock. Have I mentioned how important folks like the
Green, Baldwin, O'Conner and Whelan families by St. Thomas were to dad
staying in the Valley. Or, that Milton Johnston, the Swanson's, Fedje's,
Osowski's and Egeland's all gave dad encouragement and reason to stay.
Then of course, there was the young Sevigny girl, named Helen. The lady
I always called mom. Certainly, no matter what anyone else ever says.
She, was the major reason my dad left Bottineau County for the Red River
Valley of the North. It was, to a large degree, the reason dad decided
to expand his horizons from simply selling nursery stock to opening up a
flower shop in the 400 block of Hill Avenue. Later moving the Main Shop
and greenhouse operations to it's present location on the corner of
Summit and 10th street. Grafton Floral, for awhile, also operated a
second floral shop in conjunction with a Western Union office in a small
space on the north side of the Basell Hotel.
Jim Carlson and Adrian Sevigny were among the many that worked in the
downtown shop.
Memories,.. aren't they wonderful?
Did I mention that tomorrow (Tuesday the 3rd) is A.K.'s birthday. Happy
birthday A.K. We are sure proud of the way you are taking care of the
business our father started over 60 years ago. With love and
appreciation Pat and Gary
----------------------
This weeks firefighters calendar draw winners are:
7/31 Jerome Hoffart $20
8/1 Sharie Nelson $20
8/2 Dion Anderson $20
8/3 Jason Haats $20
8/4 Mike DeSautel * $20
8/5 Linda Aguado $20
8/6 James Dusek $20
Congratulations to the lucky winners.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.
P.S.
Thanks Kermit, for the wonderful note and fantastic pictures.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by
EMMA LYNN BJORNEBY
Christine & Christopher Bjorneby's brand new baby girl. CONGRATULATIONS
to mom and dad and to Joleen & Keith Bjorneby and Linda & David
Schumacher the proud grandparents of the pretty little sweetheart.
---------------------
The current temperature is 62 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 88/57
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/57
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
As I was partaking of the juice of the coffee bean this morning at
Granny's, I got to wondering. What ever happen to the little red wagon
Charlie Hann used to pull around Grafton.
I know his original Radio Flyer one was destroyed by a couple buffoons
that hijacked him in an alley. The one I'm thinking of, is the one Wayne
Coulthart built for Charlie.
I posed the question to a few guys Monday morning and one suggested
that it may well be in the Smithsonian Institute,... alongside Archie
Bunkers stuffed chair. To that I could only add,.. If it isn't, it
certainly could be.
Anyway, I'm thinking, if, it could be found, it certainly would be a
fitting addition to Grafton's Heritage Village collection of memorable
Grafton resident memorabilia.
~~~~~ Speaking of Heritage Village. I understand - from the page on
Graftons home channel three - that the "Village" is looking for four (4)
volunteers for it's board of Directors.
Then I got to thinking. Wouldn't it be fantastic if one or more of
those volunteers would also become a major monetary benefactor of the
Village.
Then I got to thinking. Had Ralph Engelstad grown up in Grafton, and,
had he been willing to "bequest" the significant dollars he did UND. The
future of "our" hospital, fire & ambulance, park & sports facilities,
and every house of worship in the community could enjoy perpetual
financial independent longevity. Or so it seems to me.
Then,... I was reminded of the letter to the editor a gentleman from
Park River wrote a while back. He mentioned something about Park River
not receiving anything from Marvins Windows last "appreciation" bonus.
THEN, I was reminded that, apparently, one of Park Rivers largest
business construction projects of late, namely their new medical
facility addition, didn't think it was important to use Marvins windows
in it and went else where for glass to keep out North Dakotas various
weather conditions,... not to mention the skeeters.
THEN, I got to wondering. Will "our" medical facilities be able to keep
pace with the growing technical demand of the times? Gosh I sure hope
so.
---------------------
Speaking of facilities. I mentioned something about the Alchem
operation yesterday and received the following in it's regard. >>>
I see you mentioned Alchem's smell in the Gazette. It appears this is
getting to be a pretty hot topic in Grafton from reading the Record.
Looking into my crystal ball (No pun intended) I see that in the future
the taxpayers will be called upon to fork over some tax money to help
get rid of the odors. The picture is still a little fuzzy, but what I
think I see is the owner implying (or maybe saying outright) that unless
someone (Read that YOU AND I) helps foot the bill to get the company
back into environmental compliance he will be forced to shut the doors
and lay off his employees, and stop buying corn from local farmers. So
(here's the part that comes through REAL CLEAR) city, county, state, or
federal government, or some combination of the four entities will decide
it's in the best interest of the public to keep the doors open, the
employees employed, and an outlet for the farmers corn open. So they
will find funds to "clear the air" so to speak for the Grafton
residents, at a cost to the taxpayers of a much larger area than the
strongest winds could ever blow the stench. Oh, and I think I see the
owner of Alchem laughing all the way to the bank. I'm not sure, but I
think it's a Jamestown bank, not a Grafton bank.
P.S.-- I wonder what % of the annual operating budget of the facility
has been earmarked for environmental issues the past, say 10 years.
P.P.S.-- I read an article this spring that spoke of all the new ethanol
plants being built, and it said that a new plant that cost $100 million
to build would pay for itself in ethanol production in less than one
year at current profit levels. I wonder what those facilities smell
like? <<<<
I don't know what I can add to that, except to say, I believe the
Gazette is still getting into the Chamber office and that of the Mayor
among many others.
-----------------------
Did I mention the Grafton Floral 60 year celebration? Have I mentioned
that even a few years before that, dad traveled the northern valley
selling nursery stock. Have I mentioned how important folks like the
Green, Baldwin, O'Conner and Whelan families by St. Thomas were to dad
staying in the Valley. Or, that Milton Johnston, the Swanson's, Fedje's,
Osowski's and Egeland's all gave dad encouragement and reason to stay.
Then of course, there was the young Sevigny girl, named Helen. The lady
I always called mom. Certainly, no matter what anyone else ever says.
She, was the major reason my dad left Bottineau County for the Red River
Valley of the North. It was, to a large degree, the reason dad decided
to expand his horizons from simply selling nursery stock to opening up a
flower shop in the 400 block of Hill Avenue. Later moving the Main Shop
and greenhouse operations to it's present location on the corner of
Summit and 10th street. Grafton Floral, for awhile, also operated a
second floral shop in conjunction with a Western Union office in a small
space on the north side of the Basell Hotel.
Jim Carlson and Adrian Sevigny were among the many that worked in the
downtown shop.
Memories,.. aren't they wonderful?
Did I mention that tomorrow (Tuesday the 3rd) is A.K.'s birthday. Happy
birthday A.K. We are sure proud of the way you are taking care of the
business our father started over 60 years ago. With love and
appreciation Pat and Gary
----------------------
This weeks firefighters calendar draw winners are:
7/31 Jerome Hoffart $20
8/1 Sharie Nelson $20
8/2 Dion Anderson $20
8/3 Jason Haats $20
8/4 Mike DeSautel * $20
8/5 Linda Aguado $20
8/6 James Dusek $20
Congratulations to the lucky winners.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.
P.S.
Thanks Kermit, for the wonderful note and fantastic pictures.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Monday, July 31, 2006
July 31, 2006 - Monday
07/31/06 MONDAY
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by Brylcream,... a little dab'll
do-ya.
---------------------
The current temperature is 83 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 95/70
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/57
Lightning must have hit the rain gauge last night, however, there is
about a half inch of water in the birdbath next to it so I'll call that
official.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news and stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
Last nights storm resulted in one of the most spectacular light shows
I've ever seen. Strong winds accompanied by rain and a tiny bit of hail.
I don't think there was any serious damage from the storm although I did
notice a horrible odor as I headed for Grannies this morning. Either
lightning hit the outhouse (several of them) OR, Newman's nuisance - the
Alchem Alcohol Plant - is stirring up a whopper of a stench.
I certainly hope, "the powers that be" don't jeopardize the long term
viability of "our" community for the short term profitability of a few
multi-millionaires making alcohol we can't even drink.
-----------------------
FISHING REPORT:
Fishing "off the Rock" this past week was fantastic. Arnesen's launches
all reported "filling out" on every trip, as did most of the rest of the
fisher/persons I spoke with.
Along with a limit of "good eaters", members of my gene pool were able
to stretch the upper lip of several lunkers. Tom released a 23 and a
26½ incher within fifteen minutes of each other and our grandson Dilan
taught a 25 incher to keep his mouth shut as well. All while I caught
another Guiness book of world records walleye. (3½ inches)
A universal joint went out in my walleye combine last week. It's in the
shop and should be ready to return to the summer fish harvest by
Wednesday.
This week when we returned to Rocky Point. We found a note from Wally
and Ione on our picnic table. It said, they stopped by to buy us dinner
but we weren't home. So, according to the note, Wally left the note and
enough money for Pat and me to have dinner at the Rock Harbor Lodge. He
did mention that he hoped the wind wouldn't blow the money away. Rats,
it did. So,... knowing that Wally really was sincere, we went to the
Rock Harbor Lodge and ate anyway,... and charged it to Wally. Thanks a
million Wally, the prime Rib was fantastic.
---------------------
It's official, I read about it on Grafton's local channel three.
Thursday, August 10 Grafton Floral will celebrate 60 years of serving
the Grafton area with it's floral, and lawn care needs.
The event will run from 5:00 and 8:00 pm. I think it's really fitting
that "Goober's Gobblers" will be served, as several members of the
Watkins family have been involved in almost every aspect of Grafton
Floral, from the business side and to a great extent, caring for the
youngest members of the Moe family.
It will be a wonderful "reunion". I hope folks will be able to find
time in their busy schedules to stop by, say hello.
--------------------
Paul DeSautel sent the following "memory" of Grafton Floral. He wrote:
>>>
Gary-- re 60 years of Grafton Floral
I recall when I was living "way out there" in Washington
State, I on occasion, needed flowers delivered to my grandparents (Roney
or DeSautel) or my Mom (Emma Lou) or even to aunt Dorothy Lykken. All I
had to do was call Bill and the deed was done perfectly. I would
eventually even get a bill (paid). Times have sure changed <<< Thanks
for caring and sharing Paul. Times certainly have changed, although
anyone, from anywhere, can still call AK and get beautiful flowers
delivered anywhere in the country. Just like 60 years ago.
---------------------
The list of individuals that worked at Grafton Floral would fill a fare
sized phone book. Kathee Carlson, Pat Devig, David Hanson, Bennie Molde,
Eddie Ebertowski, Bob Oihus, Sharon McIntyre, Lewis Sondeland, Carol
Osowski, Rudy Lopez, Debbie & Mary Jo Watkins, Arnie Barclay, Neil
McDonald, Jo Elbert, Sandy Stark, Sharon Burns, are but a few of the
myriad of people that have added to the value of Graftons oldest and
only year-round floral and greenhouse operation.
Of course, being a "family" business, many family members were also
significantly involved. Most of my aunts and uncles were involved, as
well as cousins,.. 1st, 2nd and even third I think.
One of the flower shop "designers" I remember most is Margaret
(Pribula) Knutson. She not only could put every flower in the right
place, she would do the same with dad when he would start getting
concerned they wouldn't be able to meet a specific deadline. Margaret's
husband Earl, worked for Schumachers at the time.
Margaret's sister, Mildred sent us the following note: >>>
Hi Gary: It was interesting to hear Grafton Floral was celebrating it's
60th anniversary. My sister Margaret Knutson worked for your Mom and Dad
I think in the late 50's or early 60's. She went on to have her own
business and then worked for Bachmans in Minneapolis until her untimely
death in 1969 that took her husband, son and brother-in-law in a fishing
accident at the Lake of the Woods. They loved to fish at your
favorite fishing area. Your Mom and Dad were very supportive in her
floral career. I am sure there are some local residents that remember
her as designing their wedding or special occasion.
Millie Sobolik, Forest Lake, Mn. <<< Thanks a million for caring and
sharing Millie. I will never forget the night Margaret offered to pick
up the flowers from the bus depot and put them away. ((((Often, our
flower supplies would come by Greyhound Bus into Stans Cafe at 10:30 at
night.)))) Her comment to dad that day was something like,.. 'we don't
need any more kids anyway.' Those that knew Margaret and Earl, also know
they were running neck and neck with Bennie and Milred Molde for school
hot lunch tickets.
-------------------
The clouds are starting to build again in the west, it's looking like a
rerun of last nights display.
My left arm is starting to twitch,... again, indicating the need to
hold a 6 foot fiberglass rod with a hook on the end of it. This weeks
seminar will cover the perils of bite and release.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by Brylcream,... a little dab'll
do-ya.
---------------------
The current temperature is 83 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 95/70
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/57
Lightning must have hit the rain gauge last night, however, there is
about a half inch of water in the birdbath next to it so I'll call that
official.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news and stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
Last nights storm resulted in one of the most spectacular light shows
I've ever seen. Strong winds accompanied by rain and a tiny bit of hail.
I don't think there was any serious damage from the storm although I did
notice a horrible odor as I headed for Grannies this morning. Either
lightning hit the outhouse (several of them) OR, Newman's nuisance - the
Alchem Alcohol Plant - is stirring up a whopper of a stench.
I certainly hope, "the powers that be" don't jeopardize the long term
viability of "our" community for the short term profitability of a few
multi-millionaires making alcohol we can't even drink.
-----------------------
FISHING REPORT:
Fishing "off the Rock" this past week was fantastic. Arnesen's launches
all reported "filling out" on every trip, as did most of the rest of the
fisher/persons I spoke with.
Along with a limit of "good eaters", members of my gene pool were able
to stretch the upper lip of several lunkers. Tom released a 23 and a
26½ incher within fifteen minutes of each other and our grandson Dilan
taught a 25 incher to keep his mouth shut as well. All while I caught
another Guiness book of world records walleye. (3½ inches)
A universal joint went out in my walleye combine last week. It's in the
shop and should be ready to return to the summer fish harvest by
Wednesday.
This week when we returned to Rocky Point. We found a note from Wally
and Ione on our picnic table. It said, they stopped by to buy us dinner
but we weren't home. So, according to the note, Wally left the note and
enough money for Pat and me to have dinner at the Rock Harbor Lodge. He
did mention that he hoped the wind wouldn't blow the money away. Rats,
it did. So,... knowing that Wally really was sincere, we went to the
Rock Harbor Lodge and ate anyway,... and charged it to Wally. Thanks a
million Wally, the prime Rib was fantastic.
---------------------
It's official, I read about it on Grafton's local channel three.
Thursday, August 10 Grafton Floral will celebrate 60 years of serving
the Grafton area with it's floral, and lawn care needs.
The event will run from 5:00 and 8:00 pm. I think it's really fitting
that "Goober's Gobblers" will be served, as several members of the
Watkins family have been involved in almost every aspect of Grafton
Floral, from the business side and to a great extent, caring for the
youngest members of the Moe family.
It will be a wonderful "reunion". I hope folks will be able to find
time in their busy schedules to stop by, say hello.
--------------------
Paul DeSautel sent the following "memory" of Grafton Floral. He wrote:
>>>
Gary-- re 60 years of Grafton Floral
I recall when I was living "way out there" in Washington
State, I on occasion, needed flowers delivered to my grandparents (Roney
or DeSautel) or my Mom (Emma Lou) or even to aunt Dorothy Lykken. All I
had to do was call Bill and the deed was done perfectly. I would
eventually even get a bill (paid). Times have sure changed <<< Thanks
for caring and sharing Paul. Times certainly have changed, although
anyone, from anywhere, can still call AK and get beautiful flowers
delivered anywhere in the country. Just like 60 years ago.
---------------------
The list of individuals that worked at Grafton Floral would fill a fare
sized phone book. Kathee Carlson, Pat Devig, David Hanson, Bennie Molde,
Eddie Ebertowski, Bob Oihus, Sharon McIntyre, Lewis Sondeland, Carol
Osowski, Rudy Lopez, Debbie & Mary Jo Watkins, Arnie Barclay, Neil
McDonald, Jo Elbert, Sandy Stark, Sharon Burns, are but a few of the
myriad of people that have added to the value of Graftons oldest and
only year-round floral and greenhouse operation.
Of course, being a "family" business, many family members were also
significantly involved. Most of my aunts and uncles were involved, as
well as cousins,.. 1st, 2nd and even third I think.
One of the flower shop "designers" I remember most is Margaret
(Pribula) Knutson. She not only could put every flower in the right
place, she would do the same with dad when he would start getting
concerned they wouldn't be able to meet a specific deadline. Margaret's
husband Earl, worked for Schumachers at the time.
Margaret's sister, Mildred sent us the following note: >>>
Hi Gary: It was interesting to hear Grafton Floral was celebrating it's
60th anniversary. My sister Margaret Knutson worked for your Mom and Dad
I think in the late 50's or early 60's. She went on to have her own
business and then worked for Bachmans in Minneapolis until her untimely
death in 1969 that took her husband, son and brother-in-law in a fishing
accident at the Lake of the Woods. They loved to fish at your
favorite fishing area. Your Mom and Dad were very supportive in her
floral career. I am sure there are some local residents that remember
her as designing their wedding or special occasion.
Millie Sobolik, Forest Lake, Mn. <<< Thanks a million for caring and
sharing Millie. I will never forget the night Margaret offered to pick
up the flowers from the bus depot and put them away. ((((Often, our
flower supplies would come by Greyhound Bus into Stans Cafe at 10:30 at
night.)))) Her comment to dad that day was something like,.. 'we don't
need any more kids anyway.' Those that knew Margaret and Earl, also know
they were running neck and neck with Bennie and Milred Molde for school
hot lunch tickets.
-------------------
The clouds are starting to build again in the west, it's looking like a
rerun of last nights display.
My left arm is starting to twitch,... again, indicating the need to
hold a 6 foot fiberglass rod with a hook on the end of it. This weeks
seminar will cover the perils of bite and release.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or so it
seems to me.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
July 26, 2006 - Wednesday
07/26/06 WEDNESDAY
--------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by one year older Kenneth Demester.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KEN !!!!!!
--------------------
The current temperature is 69 degrees.
Rainfall amounts range from almost nothing in some areas, to over an
inch in others.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
---------------------
It's not unusual to hear people in small towns complain because
"there's never anything to do."
That's simply NOT TRUE in Grafton. Certainly not last night, and
definitely not Tuesday night August 8th. We attended "Piano Talk" last
night at St. Johns Parish Center. Fabulous entertainment would be an
understatement. Piano's, Guitar's, Saxophones, a flute and violin were
all represented by talent no-less professional than one could hear at
any top ranked concert in the land. And, I might add, the vocal talents
of Marvin Mielke can rival the best of them as well.
It was my first time at Piano Talk, it certainly won't be my last.
Although the parish center is quite large, I'm convinced that if the
general public were made aware of the excellent musical presentations.
The center wouldn't be near big enough.
It's an event that should be trumpeted by every area church
organization. Lord knows, several were represented at last nights
performance. The local Chamber office, Walsh County Record and "our"
area radio stations should also be promoting the event. (FREE) Why free?
Because the performance is free, and, because it would bring dozens of
"families" to town. Which in turn would generate significant interest
and appreciation for "our" religious, residential and business
community. And that, my friends, is true community and economic growth,
with the Lord on our side to boot.
Or so it seems to me.
---------------------
Speaking of "our" area community. I received the following note from
the Philip Ray family.
>>> We wish to extend a big Thank You to all who supported us at the
benefit on Friday. It was a fabulous event and we had a wonderful
time. The day was perfect and it was so nice to visit with
everyone. There are too many to thank individually, so Thank You
all.
We also want to thank Pastor Wayne Stark and those who put together
the special worship service at Grafton Lutheran Church for our family in
June.
We are so fortunate to be a part of a very caring community. The
support is overwhelming. Again, Thank You to all. We are so very
grateful.
Philip, Rachel & Rylan Ray <<<
-------------------
With Grafton Floral's 60th anniversary just around the corner. Hearing
tidbits from anyone willing to share will be much appreciated. To that
end, I thank Lea very much for caring and sharing. She wrote: >>> Dear
Gary, Have missed the Gazette but glad you enjoyed the fishing.
Enjoyed your sturgeon story. About an hour from here on Lake
Winnebago they spear them from a bigger than normal ice fishing hole.
They are big and ugly. Maybe you should give that a whirl.
Also, I have a Grafton Floral story. My Grandmother (Clara
Halleen) lived with us at 9l7 Cooper Ave. We had an Oleander tree
which she loved but got too big for the house so your parents were kind
enough to take it and when my Grandmother died they made a beautiful
corsage for her from its blossoms. What a nice thing to do so thank
you from me and yes, memories are wonderful-I was only a sophomore at
the time but I've never forgotten that act of kindness. Happy
fishing. Lea Fairbairn
<<<< Thanks a million Lea. I am pleased to be able to add your
"Memories" to the Grafton Floral story book my father and mother started
some sixty years ago.
--------------------
I am pretty sure I got the Vistad,.. DeSautel,.. Nyman house deal
straightened out in Tuesday's Gazette. If not, the following note from
Cheryl should clinch it. She wrote: >>> Hi Gary -
Just so you have if from the "horse's mouth" -- we did buy the Ernie
Nyman house in Eastwood from Larson's. Jim and I both decided that
having "everything" on the same floor is the way to go. Washing
clothes in the basement and carrying them up 2 flights of stairs is
getting old and we have 4 bedrooms, use one, but still have to clean 4,
etc. etc. I wasn't quite ready for major downsizing, but our oldest
daughter, Kelly, is moving back to Grafton to be a 3rd grade teacher
and she and her husband and OUR granddaughter are buying our house.
So I kindof get to sell it and keep it at the same time. The only
question now is:
How in the world does a super packrat and collector, (namely me) pack a
3 story house with full attic and move it to a single story with no
basement?????
Everyone who knows me and knows my house is waiting for the answer!
This will all happen sometime in August!
Always enjoy your gazette - haven't received it for a
long time and only today discovered it was on the net. Had to
look it up because someone told me you were talking about us. Ha!
Thanks,
Cheryl Vistad <<< Thanks a million for setting the record (Gazette)
straight Cheryl. Is it fair to assume, since the above information is
from Cheryl, the "Horse's Mouth", should we hear anything from Jim, it
will be coming from the other end of the Horse?
Now that I have your "new" e-mail address Cheryl, I am pleased to
welcome you "back" to the Gazette family
----------------------
Not only is "our" Gazette family increasing daily. Families within the
Gazette family are doing the same. Eric sent us the following: >>>
Subject: Navie Isabella Burley
To those of you who don't know, Melissa and I had a baby girl on Wed
July 19th. Her name is Navie Isabella Burley. She weighed in at 7lbs
even and 19" long. We were a little worried when she came 3 weeks
earlier than her original due date, but she seems very healthy and happy
too I might add. I have put up a website at
http://www.ebidesign.net/navie that has all the pictures taken at the
hospital and I'll be putting more up. Feel free to forward this site on
as I don't have everyones email addresses. Thanks <<<
Thank you Eric. The pictures are wonderful, AND, I'm sure grandpa
Bennie is looking at them as well.
-----------------
The following subject is much more involved than I am capable of
comprehending. Let it suffice to say that I believe most of this message
needs to rest on the desk of, and be understood by, the powers that be,
in Washington, DC.
The note: Dear Editor:
So many letter writers have based their arguments on how this land is
made up of immigrants. Ernie Lujan for one, suggests we should tear down
the Statute of Liberty because the people now in question aren't being
treated the same as those who passed through Ellis Island and other
ports of entry.
Maybe we should turn to our history books and point out to people
like Mr. Lujan why today's American is not willing to accept this new
kind of immigrant any longer. Back in 1900 when there was a rush
from all areas of Europe to come to the United States, people had to get
off a ship and stand in a long line in New York and be documented. Some
would even get down on their hands and knees and kiss the ground. They
made a pledge to uphold the laws and support their new country in good
and bad times. They made learning English a primary rule in their new
American households and some even changed their names to blend in with
their new home.
They had waved good bye to their birth place to give their children
a new life and did everything in their power to help their children
assimilate into one culture.
Nothing was handed to them. No free lunches, no welfare, no labor laws
to protect them. All they had were the skills and craftsmanship they had
brought with
them to trade for a future of prosperity.
Most of their children came of age when World War II broke out. My
father fought along side men whose parents had come straight over from
Germany, Italy, France and Japan. None of these 1st generation Americans
ever gave any thought about what country their parents had come from.
They were Americans fighting Hitler, Mussolini and the Emperor of Japan.
They were defending the United States of America as one people.
When we liberated France, no one in those villages were looking for the
French-American or the German American or the Irish American. The people
of France saw only Americans. And, we carried one flag that represented
one country. Not one of those immigrant sons would have thought about
picking up another country's flag and waving it to represent who they
were. It would have been a disgrace to their parents who had sacrificed
so much to be here. These immigrants truly knew what it meant to be an
American. They stirred the melting pot into one red, white and blue
bowl. And here we are in 2006 with a new kind of immigrant who wants the
same rights and privileges. Only they want to achieve it by playing with
a different set of rules, one that includes the entitlement card and a
guarantee of being faithful to their mother country. I'm sorry, that's
not what being an American is all about. I believe that the immigrants
who landed on Ellis Island in the early 1900s deserve better than that
for all the toil, hard work and sacrifice in raising future generations
to create a land that has become a beacon for those legally searching
for a better life. I think they would be appalled that they are being
used as an example by those waving foreign country flags. And, for that
suggestion about taking down the Statute of Liberty, it happens to mean
a lot to the citizens who are voting on
the immigration bill. I wouldn't start talking about dismantling the
United States just yet. <<< I might add, once again, that "our" area of
the country (the Red River Valley) would be hard pressed to survive with
immigrants. It's the "illegal" term that I struggle with.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
I will be spending the next few days at Arnesen's arm twitching
training seminar for jerks without bait.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
--------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by one year older Kenneth Demester.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KEN !!!!!!
--------------------
The current temperature is 69 degrees.
Rainfall amounts range from almost nothing in some areas, to over an
inch in others.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
---------------------
It's not unusual to hear people in small towns complain because
"there's never anything to do."
That's simply NOT TRUE in Grafton. Certainly not last night, and
definitely not Tuesday night August 8th. We attended "Piano Talk" last
night at St. Johns Parish Center. Fabulous entertainment would be an
understatement. Piano's, Guitar's, Saxophones, a flute and violin were
all represented by talent no-less professional than one could hear at
any top ranked concert in the land. And, I might add, the vocal talents
of Marvin Mielke can rival the best of them as well.
It was my first time at Piano Talk, it certainly won't be my last.
Although the parish center is quite large, I'm convinced that if the
general public were made aware of the excellent musical presentations.
The center wouldn't be near big enough.
It's an event that should be trumpeted by every area church
organization. Lord knows, several were represented at last nights
performance. The local Chamber office, Walsh County Record and "our"
area radio stations should also be promoting the event. (FREE) Why free?
Because the performance is free, and, because it would bring dozens of
"families" to town. Which in turn would generate significant interest
and appreciation for "our" religious, residential and business
community. And that, my friends, is true community and economic growth,
with the Lord on our side to boot.
Or so it seems to me.
---------------------
Speaking of "our" area community. I received the following note from
the Philip Ray family.
>>> We wish to extend a big Thank You to all who supported us at the
benefit on Friday. It was a fabulous event and we had a wonderful
time. The day was perfect and it was so nice to visit with
everyone. There are too many to thank individually, so Thank You
all.
We also want to thank Pastor Wayne Stark and those who put together
the special worship service at Grafton Lutheran Church for our family in
June.
We are so fortunate to be a part of a very caring community. The
support is overwhelming. Again, Thank You to all. We are so very
grateful.
Philip, Rachel & Rylan Ray <<<
-------------------
With Grafton Floral's 60th anniversary just around the corner. Hearing
tidbits from anyone willing to share will be much appreciated. To that
end, I thank Lea very much for caring and sharing. She wrote: >>> Dear
Gary, Have missed the Gazette but glad you enjoyed the fishing.
Enjoyed your sturgeon story. About an hour from here on Lake
Winnebago they spear them from a bigger than normal ice fishing hole.
They are big and ugly. Maybe you should give that a whirl.
Also, I have a Grafton Floral story. My Grandmother (Clara
Halleen) lived with us at 9l7 Cooper Ave. We had an Oleander tree
which she loved but got too big for the house so your parents were kind
enough to take it and when my Grandmother died they made a beautiful
corsage for her from its blossoms. What a nice thing to do so thank
you from me and yes, memories are wonderful-I was only a sophomore at
the time but I've never forgotten that act of kindness. Happy
fishing. Lea Fairbairn
<<<< Thanks a million Lea. I am pleased to be able to add your
"Memories" to the Grafton Floral story book my father and mother started
some sixty years ago.
--------------------
I am pretty sure I got the Vistad,.. DeSautel,.. Nyman house deal
straightened out in Tuesday's Gazette. If not, the following note from
Cheryl should clinch it. She wrote: >>> Hi Gary -
Just so you have if from the "horse's mouth" -- we did buy the Ernie
Nyman house in Eastwood from Larson's. Jim and I both decided that
having "everything" on the same floor is the way to go. Washing
clothes in the basement and carrying them up 2 flights of stairs is
getting old and we have 4 bedrooms, use one, but still have to clean 4,
etc. etc. I wasn't quite ready for major downsizing, but our oldest
daughter, Kelly, is moving back to Grafton to be a 3rd grade teacher
and she and her husband and OUR granddaughter are buying our house.
So I kindof get to sell it and keep it at the same time. The only
question now is:
How in the world does a super packrat and collector, (namely me) pack a
3 story house with full attic and move it to a single story with no
basement?????
Everyone who knows me and knows my house is waiting for the answer!
This will all happen sometime in August!
Always enjoy your gazette - haven't received it for a
long time and only today discovered it was on the net. Had to
look it up because someone told me you were talking about us. Ha!
Thanks,
Cheryl Vistad <<< Thanks a million for setting the record (Gazette)
straight Cheryl. Is it fair to assume, since the above information is
from Cheryl, the "Horse's Mouth", should we hear anything from Jim, it
will be coming from the other end of the Horse?
Now that I have your "new" e-mail address Cheryl, I am pleased to
welcome you "back" to the Gazette family
----------------------
Not only is "our" Gazette family increasing daily. Families within the
Gazette family are doing the same. Eric sent us the following: >>>
Subject: Navie Isabella Burley
To those of you who don't know, Melissa and I had a baby girl on Wed
July 19th. Her name is Navie Isabella Burley. She weighed in at 7lbs
even and 19" long. We were a little worried when she came 3 weeks
earlier than her original due date, but she seems very healthy and happy
too I might add. I have put up a website at
http://www.ebidesign.net/navie that has all the pictures taken at the
hospital and I'll be putting more up. Feel free to forward this site on
as I don't have everyones email addresses. Thanks <<<
Thank you Eric. The pictures are wonderful, AND, I'm sure grandpa
Bennie is looking at them as well.
-----------------
The following subject is much more involved than I am capable of
comprehending. Let it suffice to say that I believe most of this message
needs to rest on the desk of, and be understood by, the powers that be,
in Washington, DC.
The note: Dear Editor:
So many letter writers have based their arguments on how this land is
made up of immigrants. Ernie Lujan for one, suggests we should tear down
the Statute of Liberty because the people now in question aren't being
treated the same as those who passed through Ellis Island and other
ports of entry.
Maybe we should turn to our history books and point out to people
like Mr. Lujan why today's American is not willing to accept this new
kind of immigrant any longer. Back in 1900 when there was a rush
from all areas of Europe to come to the United States, people had to get
off a ship and stand in a long line in New York and be documented. Some
would even get down on their hands and knees and kiss the ground. They
made a pledge to uphold the laws and support their new country in good
and bad times. They made learning English a primary rule in their new
American households and some even changed their names to blend in with
their new home.
They had waved good bye to their birth place to give their children
a new life and did everything in their power to help their children
assimilate into one culture.
Nothing was handed to them. No free lunches, no welfare, no labor laws
to protect them. All they had were the skills and craftsmanship they had
brought with
them to trade for a future of prosperity.
Most of their children came of age when World War II broke out. My
father fought along side men whose parents had come straight over from
Germany, Italy, France and Japan. None of these 1st generation Americans
ever gave any thought about what country their parents had come from.
They were Americans fighting Hitler, Mussolini and the Emperor of Japan.
They were defending the United States of America as one people.
When we liberated France, no one in those villages were looking for the
French-American or the German American or the Irish American. The people
of France saw only Americans. And, we carried one flag that represented
one country. Not one of those immigrant sons would have thought about
picking up another country's flag and waving it to represent who they
were. It would have been a disgrace to their parents who had sacrificed
so much to be here. These immigrants truly knew what it meant to be an
American. They stirred the melting pot into one red, white and blue
bowl. And here we are in 2006 with a new kind of immigrant who wants the
same rights and privileges. Only they want to achieve it by playing with
a different set of rules, one that includes the entitlement card and a
guarantee of being faithful to their mother country. I'm sorry, that's
not what being an American is all about. I believe that the immigrants
who landed on Ellis Island in the early 1900s deserve better than that
for all the toil, hard work and sacrifice in raising future generations
to create a land that has become a beacon for those legally searching
for a better life. I think they would be appalled that they are being
used as an example by those waving foreign country flags. And, for that
suggestion about taking down the Statute of Liberty, it happens to mean
a lot to the citizens who are voting on
the immigration bill. I wouldn't start talking about dismantling the
United States just yet. <<< I might add, once again, that "our" area of
the country (the Red River Valley) would be hard pressed to survive with
immigrants. It's the "illegal" term that I struggle with.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
I will be spending the next few days at Arnesen's arm twitching
training seminar for jerks without bait.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
July 25, 2006 - Tuesday
07/25/06 TUESDAY grp 5 of 20
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by Murphy's Law. Murphy is a
frequent visitor to the Gazette.
---------------------
The current temperature is 69 degrees.
The question of the day seems to be. How much drier can it
actually get?
It was so darn dry last week, I had to rinse the dust off the
walleye's before I put them in the live well.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
CORRECTION!!! It is a fact, someone did tell me the Vistads
bought a home in the Eastwood addition of Grafton. I believe that part
is true. The part about Jim wanting the Kitchen and the bathroom on the
same floor is probably also true.
Unfortunately, the DeSautels were not aware of the "rumored" plan
at all and probably will continue living across the street from the
Kieley's. It appears, now, that the Vistads will be mowing the lawn that
I sold Ernie and Joyce Nyman Park Kentucky Bluegrass seed for several
years ago. The home is in the Eastwood addition, it's just on the south
end and not the north.
That is of course, if the phone calls and the following note are
accurate.
John wrote: >>> Hi Gary and the Queen, Welcome home.
We have missed the Gazette and both of you. It was surely fun to hear
about you and that monster fish. I just can't believe a ten thousand
year old fish can still fight like that. AMAZING! Are you sure that Jim
and Cheryl didn't buy Ernie and Joyce Nymans old house instead, from the
young Larson family that left town? I could be wrong, but that's what I
was told. Thanks for all you do for everyone and our town. John
Maxwell <<< Thank you John, for kicking Murphy out of the Gazette. It
does make more sense as I can remember Jim telling me once that he
always wanted to live on the south end, and, he certainly will be now.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It's so darn dry, the mud on the bottom of the lake has turned to
dust.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It's been a long time since I've heard from Scott Hove. He shared
the following information about his cousin Dave Schumacher. >>> Gary, My
cousin, David Schumacher, recently flew into Las Vegas in order to pick
up his son's vehicle which had remained stuck in Kingman, AZ following
an accident (everyone is OK). Anyway, I picked David up at the airport
and drove him down to Kingman so he could drive it back to Grafton.
He told me of his visits with you and I knew then that I had
to let you know this: While in Kingman, David spotted some money on the
ground. He picked up $0.08 (all pennies) and was able to pocket it! The
significance of this: most people who come to Las Vegas go home and tell
everyone how much they won (as if this place is growing like it is
because everyone wins when they're here) but; I can vouch for David! He
came to Las Vegas and left ahead of the game and he didn't even have to
touch a slot machine!
Because of his great luck, I would assume some of you guys will probably
hit him up for coffee when he's back in Grafton. Best wishes,
Scott Hove <<< Thanks a million for sharing Scott. I might expect Daves
recent "windfall" to have a positive impact on the price of gas at the
station.... Then again, I might not.
-----------------------
Often, resolutions like those at new years and special
celebrations are made, then broken. The following message is a somewhat
different attempt at keeping one. A subscriber wrote: >>> Welcome home
Gary. Glad to hear your fishing stories including the one that got away.
I saw a note in today's (July 24, ) Grand Forks Herald about a Red
River International Bike Tour next summer. It will start in Grand Forks,
head north to Canada and return to East Grand Forks. 316 miles in 5
days. It's been a while since I rode 50-60 miles in a day much less 5
days in a row but I have a year to train for it. I am telling you as a
means of keeping a promise to make this journey. If I say it I have to
do it.
Feel free to mention the bike tour but I'd rather not be named if
you do. Thanks. <<< Thanks for caring and sharing. As you requested,
only you and I will know the author. So,... I am hoping you will keep
"us" informed on the progress your making getting ready for the event.
-------------------
I am very pleased that I can share the following message from
Kathee Carlson. She wrote: >>> I loved the story of your dad making
Kaye's wedding extra special. I can almost hear him humming away as he
and his helpers put the special touches in the sacristy. He especially
seemed to enjoy wedding work, and whenever I entered Grafton Floral,
even after I was no longer working there, I had the urge to "check the
hook" on which hung the clip board with the pending wedding orders. I
was glad that I got married in Grafton so that my wedding order could
hang on the hook--even though by then it was you, and not your dad, who
took care of my flowers.
Kathee <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Kathee. Later on this
summer, Grafton Floral will be celebrating 60 years of memories in the
Grafton area. We, Pat and me, are especially proud to have played a part
in the Grafton Floral tradition.
I can still hear dad telling young ladies while they were ordering
their wedding flowers, "This will be the most important day of your
life. You will provide the beauty, my flowers will enhance the
occasion." Over the years I can also remember my mother, my step mother,
and numerous other Grafton Floral staff members say much the same.
Aren't memories wonderful?
----------------------
Wouldn't you know it, after all these years I finally come
up with a "real",.. truely real, fish story and then I received the
following in yesterdays notes.
Marjie wrote: >>> Fish tales...Never thought I'd have one of
my own
to share.
My son and I stepped out onto our front porch this afternoon after a
strong thunderstorm which dumped a large amount of rain and
softball-sized hail in Orlando I was told. We couldn't believe it when
we saw a catfish on the driveway. Then we discovered five more along
the driveway going towards the street. They squiggled their way into the
gutter which was still flowing strongly with rain water. Two went away
from the storm sewer and one was rescued and released into a retention
pond near my house. Unfortunately the others all went down the drain.
I live about 5 miles from an 18,810 acre lake, Lake
Tohopekaliga(Lake Toho) teaming with bass and it appears, catfish.
I've read that strong storms can pick up fish and frogs and release them
a few miles away. I have never seen this before. I'm going to look for a
fish resistant umbrella.
Marjie <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Marjie. Marjie
did send a photo with the note, however, lack of time, space and
technical savy doesn't allow it's inclusion.
Fishings never been quite that good on Lake of the Woods.
Although, if I remember right, John Gudajtes did say when he got off
Arnesen's launch that the "fish were just jumping in the boat". That too
was probably caused by a high winds,.... Johns.
Or so it seems to me.
---------------------
This weeks winners in the firefighters calendar draw are: 7/24
David Hanson * $20
7/25 Alvin Dykema $20
7/26 Betty Machart $20
7/27 Tom Gerszewski $20
7/28 Daniel Olivarez $20
7/29 Marty Andrews $20
7/30 Brian Kristjanson $20
I should also mention that James Loos, Eileen Bolek and Don Hutson
were among last weeks lucky winners.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or
so it seems to me.
P.S.
I am starting to develop a twitch, again, in the arm I use to set
the hook in the upper lip of a walleye. If, you should notice that the
Gazette is missing. It could well be that I am out receiving proper
therapy at Rocky Point.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by Murphy's Law. Murphy is a
frequent visitor to the Gazette.
---------------------
The current temperature is 69 degrees.
The question of the day seems to be. How much drier can it
actually get?
It was so darn dry last week, I had to rinse the dust off the
walleye's before I put them in the live well.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
CORRECTION!!! It is a fact, someone did tell me the Vistads
bought a home in the Eastwood addition of Grafton. I believe that part
is true. The part about Jim wanting the Kitchen and the bathroom on the
same floor is probably also true.
Unfortunately, the DeSautels were not aware of the "rumored" plan
at all and probably will continue living across the street from the
Kieley's. It appears, now, that the Vistads will be mowing the lawn that
I sold Ernie and Joyce Nyman Park Kentucky Bluegrass seed for several
years ago. The home is in the Eastwood addition, it's just on the south
end and not the north.
That is of course, if the phone calls and the following note are
accurate.
John wrote: >>> Hi Gary and the Queen, Welcome home.
We have missed the Gazette and both of you. It was surely fun to hear
about you and that monster fish. I just can't believe a ten thousand
year old fish can still fight like that. AMAZING! Are you sure that Jim
and Cheryl didn't buy Ernie and Joyce Nymans old house instead, from the
young Larson family that left town? I could be wrong, but that's what I
was told. Thanks for all you do for everyone and our town. John
Maxwell <<< Thank you John, for kicking Murphy out of the Gazette. It
does make more sense as I can remember Jim telling me once that he
always wanted to live on the south end, and, he certainly will be now.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It's so darn dry, the mud on the bottom of the lake has turned to
dust.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It's been a long time since I've heard from Scott Hove. He shared
the following information about his cousin Dave Schumacher. >>> Gary, My
cousin, David Schumacher, recently flew into Las Vegas in order to pick
up his son's vehicle which had remained stuck in Kingman, AZ following
an accident (everyone is OK). Anyway, I picked David up at the airport
and drove him down to Kingman so he could drive it back to Grafton.
He told me of his visits with you and I knew then that I had
to let you know this: While in Kingman, David spotted some money on the
ground. He picked up $0.08 (all pennies) and was able to pocket it! The
significance of this: most people who come to Las Vegas go home and tell
everyone how much they won (as if this place is growing like it is
because everyone wins when they're here) but; I can vouch for David! He
came to Las Vegas and left ahead of the game and he didn't even have to
touch a slot machine!
Because of his great luck, I would assume some of you guys will probably
hit him up for coffee when he's back in Grafton. Best wishes,
Scott Hove <<< Thanks a million for sharing Scott. I might expect Daves
recent "windfall" to have a positive impact on the price of gas at the
station.... Then again, I might not.
-----------------------
Often, resolutions like those at new years and special
celebrations are made, then broken. The following message is a somewhat
different attempt at keeping one. A subscriber wrote: >>> Welcome home
Gary. Glad to hear your fishing stories including the one that got away.
I saw a note in today's (July 24, ) Grand Forks Herald about a Red
River International Bike Tour next summer. It will start in Grand Forks,
head north to Canada and return to East Grand Forks. 316 miles in 5
days. It's been a while since I rode 50-60 miles in a day much less 5
days in a row but I have a year to train for it. I am telling you as a
means of keeping a promise to make this journey. If I say it I have to
do it.
Feel free to mention the bike tour but I'd rather not be named if
you do. Thanks. <<< Thanks for caring and sharing. As you requested,
only you and I will know the author. So,... I am hoping you will keep
"us" informed on the progress your making getting ready for the event.
-------------------
I am very pleased that I can share the following message from
Kathee Carlson. She wrote: >>> I loved the story of your dad making
Kaye's wedding extra special. I can almost hear him humming away as he
and his helpers put the special touches in the sacristy. He especially
seemed to enjoy wedding work, and whenever I entered Grafton Floral,
even after I was no longer working there, I had the urge to "check the
hook" on which hung the clip board with the pending wedding orders. I
was glad that I got married in Grafton so that my wedding order could
hang on the hook--even though by then it was you, and not your dad, who
took care of my flowers.
Kathee <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Kathee. Later on this
summer, Grafton Floral will be celebrating 60 years of memories in the
Grafton area. We, Pat and me, are especially proud to have played a part
in the Grafton Floral tradition.
I can still hear dad telling young ladies while they were ordering
their wedding flowers, "This will be the most important day of your
life. You will provide the beauty, my flowers will enhance the
occasion." Over the years I can also remember my mother, my step mother,
and numerous other Grafton Floral staff members say much the same.
Aren't memories wonderful?
----------------------
Wouldn't you know it, after all these years I finally come
up with a "real",.. truely real, fish story and then I received the
following in yesterdays notes.
Marjie wrote: >>> Fish tales...Never thought I'd have one of
my own
to share.
My son and I stepped out onto our front porch this afternoon after a
strong thunderstorm which dumped a large amount of rain and
softball-sized hail in Orlando I was told. We couldn't believe it when
we saw a catfish on the driveway. Then we discovered five more along
the driveway going towards the street. They squiggled their way into the
gutter which was still flowing strongly with rain water. Two went away
from the storm sewer and one was rescued and released into a retention
pond near my house. Unfortunately the others all went down the drain.
I live about 5 miles from an 18,810 acre lake, Lake
Tohopekaliga(Lake Toho) teaming with bass and it appears, catfish.
I've read that strong storms can pick up fish and frogs and release them
a few miles away. I have never seen this before. I'm going to look for a
fish resistant umbrella.
Marjie <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Marjie. Marjie
did send a photo with the note, however, lack of time, space and
technical savy doesn't allow it's inclusion.
Fishings never been quite that good on Lake of the Woods.
Although, if I remember right, John Gudajtes did say when he got off
Arnesen's launch that the "fish were just jumping in the boat". That too
was probably caused by a high winds,.... Johns.
Or so it seems to me.
---------------------
This weeks winners in the firefighters calendar draw are: 7/24
David Hanson * $20
7/25 Alvin Dykema $20
7/26 Betty Machart $20
7/27 Tom Gerszewski $20
7/28 Daniel Olivarez $20
7/29 Marty Andrews $20
7/30 Brian Kristjanson $20
I should also mention that James Loos, Eileen Bolek and Don Hutson
were among last weeks lucky winners.
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or
so it seems to me.
P.S.
I am starting to develop a twitch, again, in the arm I use to set
the hook in the upper lip of a walleye. If, you should notice that the
Gazette is missing. It could well be that I am out receiving proper
therapy at Rocky Point.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Monday, July 24, 2006
July 24, 2006 - Monday
07/24/06 MONDAY
----------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by Jim & Kaye (Kieley) McFarland
----------------------
The present temperature is 85 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 94/62
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/57
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
Those that think nothing ever happens in Grafton probably just haven't
left town long enough so it can.
Spudniks building, although not completed, is up and providing shelter
from the sun (and rain, if it ever does).
A major portion of the Gerszewski potato warehouse, the part that
busted out last year, has been torn down.
The Simonson organization has purchased the BP gas station (formerly
Lee's Standard) on the corner of Hill and 17.
Aurel and Delores DeSautel sold their home in Eastwood (once owned by
Bill and Peggy Moe) to Jim and Cheryl Vistad, Rumor has it Jim thinks
it's better to have the kitchen and the bathroom on the same floor. The
Vistads have been living in the former Norman and Winnie Burns home on
Western Avenue.
Then, I noticed this morning that the business that occupied the former
Tollacks Furniture store is moving to Sauk Center (I think).
Although I haven't been told specifically, it also appears that
Ekatta's "liquor livery" is open and doing business in the same area Sam
Nelson used to sell chocolate malts.
I was also sorry to hear the Louis Goodrie age 78 died last Friday at
his home in Grafton. I'm sure there are as many stories about Louie as
there are people in Grafton.
Let it suffice to say, "Louie always did the best he could, with what
he had to work with." I will miss seeing Louis walking around town
looking down at the sidewalk with an unlit cigarette in his mouth,
wearing his 'well worn' parka and hard hat.
----------------------
I received the following note awhile back and hope someone can shed a
bit of lite on it for us. Kristy wrote: >>>
Hi Gary! I want you to know how much Bruce and I enjoy your Gazette!
Thank you for all you do for our community! I received a letter from my
dad, (Chuck Stenso), today and in it was a picture of the airport. It
was taken from the air, and it was underwater. He said it was taken in
the 1948 flood. There is a P-51 mustang airplane behind the hanger. He
mentioned the air force had given it to the city after the war. He also
said the city sold it to someone for $6,000.00. The gentleman who bought
it came to the airport and worked on it for about a day and flew it out
of town. He said at the end of the letter that he thought it would be
fun to know where it went and who it was that purchased it. I thought
that maybe someone in the Gazette family might know that info. Again,
thank you for all you do! Kristy Stenso <<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Kristy, I'll bet someone can
help us out.
----------------------
It was really great hearing from Lyle Anderson this week as well. I met
the Andersons a couple weeks ago at Rocky Point. Lyle wrote:
Gary,
Got your e-mail, thanks. We got home on Friday, about 4600 miles
total. But the best part of the trip was, we were able to take some
time off and relax, which is hard for me to do sometimes.
Stayed at some good camps, met some good and interesting people,like
yourself, and saw some country. I was a little disappointed with the
fishing tho. I wish I'd have had my boat there to battle those waves
and wind. Maybe next time.
It's back to work on Monday. I'm going to be building a tennis
club here, which will include a weight room, pool, offices etc. It
should keep me out of trouble for about 14 mos. It will be connected
to an existing 8 tennis court bldg.
I'll stay in touch.
lyle <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Lyle. Your probably
right about a better boat Lyle. Your nephew's little lund boat is a bit
small for the Lake of the Woods. Next year, when you return, we'll make
certain you get out and hook a giant walleye in the upper lip.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Speaking of giant fish, and I am. Last week I was able to hook on to a
giant sturgeon. For more than twenty minutes, my brother-in-law Ken
Demester and three boatloads of fisherpersons that gathered to watch,
observed the prehistoric behemoth and this Nor-Frenchman take battle.
The first time it broke water, by the side of the boat, I darn nearly
dumped the contents of my colon, as I think, did the three guys in the
boat only a few feet away. The second time it surfaced, "we" were ready,
and this time certain it was a giant bottom feeder with big bumps on
it's back.
After twenty minutes, (it felt more like an hour) I finally had the
bugger next to the boat, and, we (Kenny) had about three feet of it's
backend in the net,.... and.... doggone, bugger heck shucks, gee
willikers darn,... it lurched out of the net and back into the water.
At first I said "rats" then I realized it was best we didn't land it in
the boat. As we returned to Rocky Point I was pleased for several
reasons. First, that so many got a chance to see it. Second, that my
colon was still able to function under pressure, and third, that for
several days after, every time I walked into Arnesen's Rock Harbor
Lodge, people would refer to me as, "the guy that caught the giant
sturgeon."
There now, see Paul, I hardly didn't mention it in the Gazette at all.
As for fishing out of Arnesen's Rocky Point in general. Fishing
continues to be nothing short of fantastic,... and,... catching has been
fantastic as well.
----------------------
It seems every week we get to meet new and interesting folks at
Rocky Point. Last week Paul and Diane spent a week catching and eating
fresh Lake of the Woods Walleye. They reside in Rochester Mn, where Paul
is a retired homicide investigator who presently sells BMW'S to
Rochester's professional base and Diane who is still in law enforcement
as a deputy. Both of them worked on the Jacob Wetterling case several
years ago in the St, Joes Mn. area.
Both Pat and I enjoyed spending time with them and were fascinated by
some of their stories. They gave us every indication they would not only
be returning to "the Point" but that they are also very interested in
becoming summer residents as well. I look forward to seeing them
again,... real soon.
-----------------------
We were so please when we returned Sunday night to find so many notes
and letters from folks congratulating us for being honored at this years
Summerfest. Often, they contain tidbits about the past that are very
special to us. Sometimes, as is the case with Kaye (Kieley) McFarland,
we receive both an electronic note which says, >>> Please include us on
your email list.
We've been getting your news letter forwarded by the class of '53, but
hope that you will include us directly, so that we don't miss anything.
Keep up the good work. You and Pat are bringing joy to so many. THANKS!!
Kaye <<< Thanks a million Kaye, and welcome to the
Gazette famly.
Kaye also sent a picture of Pat and me during the parade, along with
the following note I will cherish forever.
She wrote: Not sure that you would remember Kaye Kieley --- you were
always "David's little brother". Enjoy the Gazette --- Thank you. Your
dad and mom, Cora, Hazel and this former GHS student are very proud of
you! (That's Cora Lykken and Hazel Sutterlin, of course.)
Our fathers were very good friends and your dad "MADE" my wedding ---
after Father Garland refused to marry me in the church proper --- your
dad "flowered" the sacristy "magically". I'll always be grateful. Keep
up the good work. K. <<<
--------
Thanks a million Kaye, for caring and sharing. I have always known that
Grafton Floral has ment a lot of things, to a lot of people. It is
heartwarming to learn of them "firsthand". Gary
P.S.
And yes, I certainly do remember you Kaye. I helped tie the bows on the
sacristy pews.
==================================
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.
----------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by Jim & Kaye (Kieley) McFarland
----------------------
The present temperature is 85 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 94/62
Normal H/L temp for this date is 83/57
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
Those that think nothing ever happens in Grafton probably just haven't
left town long enough so it can.
Spudniks building, although not completed, is up and providing shelter
from the sun (and rain, if it ever does).
A major portion of the Gerszewski potato warehouse, the part that
busted out last year, has been torn down.
The Simonson organization has purchased the BP gas station (formerly
Lee's Standard) on the corner of Hill and 17.
Aurel and Delores DeSautel sold their home in Eastwood (once owned by
Bill and Peggy Moe) to Jim and Cheryl Vistad, Rumor has it Jim thinks
it's better to have the kitchen and the bathroom on the same floor. The
Vistads have been living in the former Norman and Winnie Burns home on
Western Avenue.
Then, I noticed this morning that the business that occupied the former
Tollacks Furniture store is moving to Sauk Center (I think).
Although I haven't been told specifically, it also appears that
Ekatta's "liquor livery" is open and doing business in the same area Sam
Nelson used to sell chocolate malts.
I was also sorry to hear the Louis Goodrie age 78 died last Friday at
his home in Grafton. I'm sure there are as many stories about Louie as
there are people in Grafton.
Let it suffice to say, "Louie always did the best he could, with what
he had to work with." I will miss seeing Louis walking around town
looking down at the sidewalk with an unlit cigarette in his mouth,
wearing his 'well worn' parka and hard hat.
----------------------
I received the following note awhile back and hope someone can shed a
bit of lite on it for us. Kristy wrote: >>>
Hi Gary! I want you to know how much Bruce and I enjoy your Gazette!
Thank you for all you do for our community! I received a letter from my
dad, (Chuck Stenso), today and in it was a picture of the airport. It
was taken from the air, and it was underwater. He said it was taken in
the 1948 flood. There is a P-51 mustang airplane behind the hanger. He
mentioned the air force had given it to the city after the war. He also
said the city sold it to someone for $6,000.00. The gentleman who bought
it came to the airport and worked on it for about a day and flew it out
of town. He said at the end of the letter that he thought it would be
fun to know where it went and who it was that purchased it. I thought
that maybe someone in the Gazette family might know that info. Again,
thank you for all you do! Kristy Stenso <<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Kristy, I'll bet someone can
help us out.
----------------------
It was really great hearing from Lyle Anderson this week as well. I met
the Andersons a couple weeks ago at Rocky Point. Lyle wrote:
Gary,
Got your e-mail, thanks. We got home on Friday, about 4600 miles
total. But the best part of the trip was, we were able to take some
time off and relax, which is hard for me to do sometimes.
Stayed at some good camps, met some good and interesting people,like
yourself, and saw some country. I was a little disappointed with the
fishing tho. I wish I'd have had my boat there to battle those waves
and wind. Maybe next time.
It's back to work on Monday. I'm going to be building a tennis
club here, which will include a weight room, pool, offices etc. It
should keep me out of trouble for about 14 mos. It will be connected
to an existing 8 tennis court bldg.
I'll stay in touch.
lyle <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Lyle. Your probably
right about a better boat Lyle. Your nephew's little lund boat is a bit
small for the Lake of the Woods. Next year, when you return, we'll make
certain you get out and hook a giant walleye in the upper lip.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Speaking of giant fish, and I am. Last week I was able to hook on to a
giant sturgeon. For more than twenty minutes, my brother-in-law Ken
Demester and three boatloads of fisherpersons that gathered to watch,
observed the prehistoric behemoth and this Nor-Frenchman take battle.
The first time it broke water, by the side of the boat, I darn nearly
dumped the contents of my colon, as I think, did the three guys in the
boat only a few feet away. The second time it surfaced, "we" were ready,
and this time certain it was a giant bottom feeder with big bumps on
it's back.
After twenty minutes, (it felt more like an hour) I finally had the
bugger next to the boat, and, we (Kenny) had about three feet of it's
backend in the net,.... and.... doggone, bugger heck shucks, gee
willikers darn,... it lurched out of the net and back into the water.
At first I said "rats" then I realized it was best we didn't land it in
the boat. As we returned to Rocky Point I was pleased for several
reasons. First, that so many got a chance to see it. Second, that my
colon was still able to function under pressure, and third, that for
several days after, every time I walked into Arnesen's Rock Harbor
Lodge, people would refer to me as, "the guy that caught the giant
sturgeon."
There now, see Paul, I hardly didn't mention it in the Gazette at all.
As for fishing out of Arnesen's Rocky Point in general. Fishing
continues to be nothing short of fantastic,... and,... catching has been
fantastic as well.
----------------------
It seems every week we get to meet new and interesting folks at
Rocky Point. Last week Paul and Diane spent a week catching and eating
fresh Lake of the Woods Walleye. They reside in Rochester Mn, where Paul
is a retired homicide investigator who presently sells BMW'S to
Rochester's professional base and Diane who is still in law enforcement
as a deputy. Both of them worked on the Jacob Wetterling case several
years ago in the St, Joes Mn. area.
Both Pat and I enjoyed spending time with them and were fascinated by
some of their stories. They gave us every indication they would not only
be returning to "the Point" but that they are also very interested in
becoming summer residents as well. I look forward to seeing them
again,... real soon.
-----------------------
We were so please when we returned Sunday night to find so many notes
and letters from folks congratulating us for being honored at this years
Summerfest. Often, they contain tidbits about the past that are very
special to us. Sometimes, as is the case with Kaye (Kieley) McFarland,
we receive both an electronic note which says, >>> Please include us on
your email list.
We've been getting your news letter forwarded by the class of '53, but
hope that you will include us directly, so that we don't miss anything.
Keep up the good work. You and Pat are bringing joy to so many. THANKS!!
Kaye <<< Thanks a million Kaye, and welcome to the
Gazette famly.
Kaye also sent a picture of Pat and me during the parade, along with
the following note I will cherish forever.
She wrote: Not sure that you would remember Kaye Kieley --- you were
always "David's little brother". Enjoy the Gazette --- Thank you. Your
dad and mom, Cora, Hazel and this former GHS student are very proud of
you! (That's Cora Lykken and Hazel Sutterlin, of course.)
Our fathers were very good friends and your dad "MADE" my wedding ---
after Father Garland refused to marry me in the church proper --- your
dad "flowered" the sacristy "magically". I'll always be grateful. Keep
up the good work. K. <<<
--------
Thanks a million Kaye, for caring and sharing. I have always known that
Grafton Floral has ment a lot of things, to a lot of people. It is
heartwarming to learn of them "firsthand". Gary
P.S.
And yes, I certainly do remember you Kaye. I helped tie the bows on the
sacristy pews.
==================================
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.
Monday, July 10, 2006
July 10, 2006 - Monday
07/10/06 MONDAY grp. 5 of 20
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by rain and all the folks that
need it.
---------------------
The current temperature is 73 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 67/52
Normal H/L temp for this date is 81/57
Todays Skeeter meter reading -- ZERO
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------
Although it's been 14 days since I sent out the last Gazette, it
doesn't seem like more than a couple weeks.
Fishing, for those interested, has been absolutely fantastic.
Catching has been very close to the same. It took a couple days to teach
my leaches to speak Walleye and after that, they (the Walleye's) started
swimming right toward the frying pan.
John Gudajtes and a group of Red River "River Rats" were among
many of the most recent Arnesen's Rocky Point Resort visitors. The "Rat
Pack" not only got their limit on the launch, they didn't do bad in the
lodge either. The all night card game didn't go to bad, and, as I
understand it, no-one lost more than a couple bucks. Right John?
I am also pleased to welcome John and Susan to the Gazette family.
Now you'll be able to read all the wonderful things I write about you.
---------------------
Have I ever mentioned the food at Arnesen's Rock Harbor Lodge is
nothing short of fantastic?
--------------------
Speaking of meeting wonderful people at Rocky Point. The Lyle
Anderson's from Hailey, Id. parked next to us for a few days as well.
Lyle was born & raised in Warren Mn. tho' presently enjoys his
contracting business in Idaho. He told me he knew both Joe and Ray
Burwell from Warren and that Ray, in high school, was the fastest
(running) little Bugger he ever knew.
As we shook hands and said goodbye, I hoped they would come back
again next year. Til then, they will reside in my memory bank of
wonderful people by the jetty next to Rock Harbor Lodge.
I am also pleased to welcome the Anderson's first look at the
Gazette and hope you will continue to share a part of your world with
us.
---------------------
This has truely been a fantastic summer for me. I am so
fortunate to have my family close and able to share so many of the
really important "little" things in life with them every day. I am also
fortunate to have such wonderful people at our "summer retreat" by the
Rock.
I am especially pleased, and proud of the recent honor bestowed me
in being nominated home town hero. I was amazed at the number of cards,
letters, e-mails and calls we have received. Thank you Harry and Mitch
Iverson for the super Die-Cast collection edition car. It will hold a
place of honor in my home for a number of reasons. Thanks a million,
once again, to everyone for making someone no more important than a
speck in a pail of water, feel like an ocean.
Graftons Summerfest festivities are a major portion of the glue
that keeps "our" town whole. It's paramount that "we" continue to build
on it's success.
I would like to share a note Norman (Nip) Lykken sent. I'm not
real sure on the Billy D. part, I am positive, however, he's right about
the part Pat has played in my life.
Nip's note: >>>
Hi Gary
I just got back yesterday from a great week in my old home town,
Grafton. One of the reasons I come back every year, is because everyone
I see makes me feel right at home just like I never left. I come back to
my home here in Gig Harbor, I feel rejuvenated and ready for another
year. After spending at least 10 hours and drinking gallons of coffee at
Granny's in 5 mornings with all of the highly educated people at the
"table of knowledge", especially Bill Desautel, I don't think I could
have learned more in several months going to school. It was great to see
you and congratulations Gary for being the home town HERO. You deserve
it. Also it was great to meet your wife Pat. I am sure she has a lot to
do with you being the hero you are. If the good lord is willing and the
creek don't rise I hope to attend next year.
Norm "NIP" Lykken
---------------------
SUPER NEWS about LITTLE BEN !!!
I am extremely pleased to share the following message about
"Little" Ben Wharam. >>>>
It is official, Ben will no longer be busy kick'n cancers butt.
The Beast has been beaten. Hip Hip Hooray (as Maria would say.) All of
the tests that Ben had done over the past couple days, show NO SIGN of
CANCER. The CT scan showed no tumors. The MIBG scan showed no cancerous
cells in the bone marrow. The bone marrow biopsy showed no cancerous
cells. There is no evidence of disease (NED). In addition, Ben's
echocardiogram showed no irregularities. And his hearing test went fine.
Tomorrow Ben will have surgery to remove the Hickman catheter. After
that it is just followup exams and urine samples. We will do monthly
labs and exams in Grand Forks for the first 2 months. The third followup
will be in Rochester. We will continue on that schedule for several
months (like 36 as of now.)
Thank you all for your continued love, support, and prayers. We
appreciate all that you have done and continue to do for us. Praise the
Lord for he has answered our prayers. God Bless you all... <<<
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Somewhere it is written, I think, that the Lord gives us trials
for resolve, tribulation for character and prayer to appreciate them
all. "We will continue to pray for "Little" Ben, and those less
fortunate than us. So that in the end, our character will resolve our
tribulations." GLM
---------------------
From the peek of happiness for "little" Ben, to the depths of
sorrow. I am deeply saddened to share the following death notice of
longtime friend,
GARY DELANO JOHNSON
Gary D. Johnson, 62, of Gilbert Az, died peacefully on Tuesday, June
27, surrounded by his family.
Born July 12, 1943 in Grafton, ND, Gary was the son of the late
Dennis and Gladys Johnson. On June 18, 1966, he married his sweetheart,
Carol Arlene Yonkers in Anaheim California. Gary served his country
in the U.S. Navy from 1960 thru 1966, traveling the world.
Gary worked as a machinist for Robrad Tool & Engineering for the
past 16 years. He previously drove truck for 17 years. Gary loved to
watch baseball and any kind of racing, but his true joy was in playing
with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife Carol and his children Ron (Cory), Mike
(Tracy) of Queen Creek Az. and Cyndee of Mesa Az.; four grandchildren,
Cody, Jessica, Taytumn and Taryn; and his brother, Don from Drayton ND.
He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and
friends.
Gary's Brother-in-law, Pastor Russell Yonkers of Evansville, In.,
officiated. Entombment followed at Queen of Heaven Cemetery 1500 East
Baseline Road Mesa Az.
~~~~~~~~~~
Although it's been many years since I've seen Gary. I will always
remember the many interesting and fun times together i our youth. I will
also take great solace in the following note Gary's brother Don shared
with me. Don wrote; >>>
I just wanted you to know that Gary was diagnosed with Cancer a
few days ago. It was very preogressed and with sadness I have to tell
you he died last night. I'll forward the obituary when it's available
and you can use it should you choose.
He enjoyed your gazette so very much. We talked about it whenever we
chatted. You always brought a little bit of "Home" to him thru your
musings. Thank you for what you do..... <<<<
~~~~~~~~~
Thank you Don, for caring and sharing. "The world is full of folks
that want to. Heaven is full of folks that do."
We would like to extend our most sincere sympathies from the Moe
family to the Gary Delano Johnson family and all of those Gary has
touched in his time here on earth. Pat and Gary Moe
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or
so it seems to me.
P.S.
I would be helpful to "our" subscription department if the newest
members of the Gazette family would let us know they are receiving it
correctly. Thanks, Gary
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
---------------------
Todays Gazette is brought to you by rain and all the folks that
need it.
---------------------
The current temperature is 73 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 67/52
Normal H/L temp for this date is 81/57
Todays Skeeter meter reading -- ZERO
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------
Although it's been 14 days since I sent out the last Gazette, it
doesn't seem like more than a couple weeks.
Fishing, for those interested, has been absolutely fantastic.
Catching has been very close to the same. It took a couple days to teach
my leaches to speak Walleye and after that, they (the Walleye's) started
swimming right toward the frying pan.
John Gudajtes and a group of Red River "River Rats" were among
many of the most recent Arnesen's Rocky Point Resort visitors. The "Rat
Pack" not only got their limit on the launch, they didn't do bad in the
lodge either. The all night card game didn't go to bad, and, as I
understand it, no-one lost more than a couple bucks. Right John?
I am also pleased to welcome John and Susan to the Gazette family.
Now you'll be able to read all the wonderful things I write about you.
---------------------
Have I ever mentioned the food at Arnesen's Rock Harbor Lodge is
nothing short of fantastic?
--------------------
Speaking of meeting wonderful people at Rocky Point. The Lyle
Anderson's from Hailey, Id. parked next to us for a few days as well.
Lyle was born & raised in Warren Mn. tho' presently enjoys his
contracting business in Idaho. He told me he knew both Joe and Ray
Burwell from Warren and that Ray, in high school, was the fastest
(running) little Bugger he ever knew.
As we shook hands and said goodbye, I hoped they would come back
again next year. Til then, they will reside in my memory bank of
wonderful people by the jetty next to Rock Harbor Lodge.
I am also pleased to welcome the Anderson's first look at the
Gazette and hope you will continue to share a part of your world with
us.
---------------------
This has truely been a fantastic summer for me. I am so
fortunate to have my family close and able to share so many of the
really important "little" things in life with them every day. I am also
fortunate to have such wonderful people at our "summer retreat" by the
Rock.
I am especially pleased, and proud of the recent honor bestowed me
in being nominated home town hero. I was amazed at the number of cards,
letters, e-mails and calls we have received. Thank you Harry and Mitch
Iverson for the super Die-Cast collection edition car. It will hold a
place of honor in my home for a number of reasons. Thanks a million,
once again, to everyone for making someone no more important than a
speck in a pail of water, feel like an ocean.
Graftons Summerfest festivities are a major portion of the glue
that keeps "our" town whole. It's paramount that "we" continue to build
on it's success.
I would like to share a note Norman (Nip) Lykken sent. I'm not
real sure on the Billy D. part, I am positive, however, he's right about
the part Pat has played in my life.
Nip's note: >>>
Hi Gary
I just got back yesterday from a great week in my old home town,
Grafton. One of the reasons I come back every year, is because everyone
I see makes me feel right at home just like I never left. I come back to
my home here in Gig Harbor, I feel rejuvenated and ready for another
year. After spending at least 10 hours and drinking gallons of coffee at
Granny's in 5 mornings with all of the highly educated people at the
"table of knowledge", especially Bill Desautel, I don't think I could
have learned more in several months going to school. It was great to see
you and congratulations Gary for being the home town HERO. You deserve
it. Also it was great to meet your wife Pat. I am sure she has a lot to
do with you being the hero you are. If the good lord is willing and the
creek don't rise I hope to attend next year.
Norm "NIP" Lykken
---------------------
SUPER NEWS about LITTLE BEN !!!
I am extremely pleased to share the following message about
"Little" Ben Wharam. >>>>
It is official, Ben will no longer be busy kick'n cancers butt.
The Beast has been beaten. Hip Hip Hooray (as Maria would say.) All of
the tests that Ben had done over the past couple days, show NO SIGN of
CANCER. The CT scan showed no tumors. The MIBG scan showed no cancerous
cells in the bone marrow. The bone marrow biopsy showed no cancerous
cells. There is no evidence of disease (NED). In addition, Ben's
echocardiogram showed no irregularities. And his hearing test went fine.
Tomorrow Ben will have surgery to remove the Hickman catheter. After
that it is just followup exams and urine samples. We will do monthly
labs and exams in Grand Forks for the first 2 months. The third followup
will be in Rochester. We will continue on that schedule for several
months (like 36 as of now.)
Thank you all for your continued love, support, and prayers. We
appreciate all that you have done and continue to do for us. Praise the
Lord for he has answered our prayers. God Bless you all... <<<
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Somewhere it is written, I think, that the Lord gives us trials
for resolve, tribulation for character and prayer to appreciate them
all. "We will continue to pray for "Little" Ben, and those less
fortunate than us. So that in the end, our character will resolve our
tribulations." GLM
---------------------
From the peek of happiness for "little" Ben, to the depths of
sorrow. I am deeply saddened to share the following death notice of
longtime friend,
GARY DELANO JOHNSON
Gary D. Johnson, 62, of Gilbert Az, died peacefully on Tuesday, June
27, surrounded by his family.
Born July 12, 1943 in Grafton, ND, Gary was the son of the late
Dennis and Gladys Johnson. On June 18, 1966, he married his sweetheart,
Carol Arlene Yonkers in Anaheim California. Gary served his country
in the U.S. Navy from 1960 thru 1966, traveling the world.
Gary worked as a machinist for Robrad Tool & Engineering for the
past 16 years. He previously drove truck for 17 years. Gary loved to
watch baseball and any kind of racing, but his true joy was in playing
with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife Carol and his children Ron (Cory), Mike
(Tracy) of Queen Creek Az. and Cyndee of Mesa Az.; four grandchildren,
Cody, Jessica, Taytumn and Taryn; and his brother, Don from Drayton ND.
He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and
friends.
Gary's Brother-in-law, Pastor Russell Yonkers of Evansville, In.,
officiated. Entombment followed at Queen of Heaven Cemetery 1500 East
Baseline Road Mesa Az.
~~~~~~~~~~
Although it's been many years since I've seen Gary. I will always
remember the many interesting and fun times together i our youth. I will
also take great solace in the following note Gary's brother Don shared
with me. Don wrote; >>>
I just wanted you to know that Gary was diagnosed with Cancer a
few days ago. It was very preogressed and with sadness I have to tell
you he died last night. I'll forward the obituary when it's available
and you can use it should you choose.
He enjoyed your gazette so very much. We talked about it whenever we
chatted. You always brought a little bit of "Home" to him thru your
musings. Thank you for what you do..... <<<<
~~~~~~~~~
Thank you Don, for caring and sharing. "The world is full of folks
that want to. Heaven is full of folks that do."
We would like to extend our most sincere sympathies from the Moe
family to the Gary Delano Johnson family and all of those Gary has
touched in his time here on earth. Pat and Gary Moe
==================================
GOTTA GO WORK ON MY DASH
==================================
The Gazette works best, when the folks that read it, write it. Or
so it seems to me.
P.S.
I would be helpful to "our" subscription department if the newest
members of the Gazette family would let us know they are receiving it
correctly. Thanks, Gary
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
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