October 16, 2007 - Tuesday

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Some people get lost in thought because it's unfamiliar territory.
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The current temperature is 42 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 59/28
Normal H/L temp for this date is 56/32
==============================

====
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-----------------------
I don't hear from Scott very often, however, when I do, it's always
interesting and often significant. Scott's latest note is both. He
wrote: >>>
Gary,
Greetings from Las Vegas! Good to see you "back at work."
While I know most people prefer getting their subscription via the
"mail" I just wanted to remind you that "back-up" copies are available
at: www.NewsFromGrafton.com
Comments from Las Vegas:
My wife, Debi, and I adopted a baby boy - Parker - in June. For some
who read this, that probably will mean a call to the paramedics about
now! He is very healthy and growing quickly! A side note: his
birth mother was from Washington, DC so, as a former candidate for
public office, I truly believe that Parker "is the best thing to come
out of Washington, DC in decades!"
What you hear about the housing situation is accurate. I have a
number of real estate agent friends who are listing all kinds of
property for sale but selling nothing. It has been fascinating to
watch how quickly things can change - going up (at first) and then
coming down (now)! But then again, I saw that happen a number of
years ago when I was in high school - potato and grain prices went up
quickly (mid-70*s) but then came down too! I am assuming that many
there are now enjoying some of the upward swing - finally.
Best,
Scott Hove <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Scott.
Congratulations to you and Debi from all of us in the Gazette family.
Parker is a very fortunate individual. Not only because he will not have
to grow up in the middle of the Washington DC political zoo, but mainly
because he will be able to grow up with two wonderful loving and caring
parents.
Thanks again Scott, for setting up the news from Grafton site. I am
very impressed with the extra large, easy to read, print.
----------------------
I can't believe the number of times I've heard (positive) comments on
the building the Robideaux's occupy on the corner of 4th street and
Manvel Avenue. Judging by the number of vehicles we often see around the
building, it's a good thing they have plenty of parking space as well.
Today I noticed a brand new "The Ultimate Gym" sign on the front of the
building. Maybe I should sign up and give the Robideaux's the "ultimate
test".
You never know. With a really good training program, I could end up
governor of California. Then again, that would be David Copperfield
stuff for sure.
-----------------------
The next note makes reference to my "blog" of sorts. I guess I really
haven't considered my babble a blog. I see it as more of a compendium of
dribble packed into a format that allows me the opportunity to share
thoughts I care about.
Gail wrote. >>>>
Hi Gary,
I just wanted to drop you a line and let you know I've
been receiving The Gazette and enjoying it. I like the idea of a blog
-- what does it take to get started? It seems like a great way to
connect with friends and family. How does it differ from a personal
website -- just no graphics? Yours is the first one I've ever
visited. Anyway, it's coming through and I appreciate it!
Has there been any announcement about WalMart coming into
Grafton yet? It's a double-edged sword, in my opinion. Yes, it
will keep many local shoppers in town, but just watch your downtown
businesses fold up. It's happening in Thief River Falls, where a
WalMart SuperStore opened up about a year ago. Maurice's left
downtown and moved closer to the WalMart area, Vanity closed up and now
their Ben Franklin store is going out of business. Pamida closed
shortly before WalMart opened, and it seems to me I heard oneof the
grocery stores will beclosing. I don't necessarily think WalMart
has much cheaper prices on a lot of their items, but it's the
convenience of having everything all in one store that's attractive.
It will be interesting to see what happens.
Thanks, and Best Regards,
Gail <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Gail. To tell
you the truth Gail, I don't have any idea what the difference is between
what I do, what a blob is, and, what a real web site is.
I started out sending notes to my family. The next thing I knew, the
notes were going out to folks in twenty three states and two foreign
countries. In the beginning, I started writing things to family members
simply as a method of mental therapy. It was, and is, a super way of
keeping the space between my ears active.
The last word I've heard on WalMart is, so far there isn't any word on
WalMart.
----------------------
Shortly after we mentioned Ken Johnson and the North Trinity Church in
the Gazette Marjie sent the following note. >>>> Hi Gary,
Saw a picture on the cover of an insert in my local weekly paper.
It was of a beautiful church and it looked very familiar, like ones I
had seen while riding in ND last summer. I turned to the article and was
not too surprised to discover the article said the church was in ND,
Walsh County to be exact. I don't know if I saw this particular church
but certainly others like it, including one at Icelandic Park.
The Catholic church shown is also said to be in Walsh County and is
just lovely.
The article mentions and shows churches in other states but the ND
ones might be if interest to you.
Marjie
http://www.americanprofile.com/article/23986.html <<<< Thanks a
Million for caring and sharing Marjie. I checked it out and the first
picture was that of North Trinity.
It really is a small world, isn't it?
------------------------
"Be who you are and say what you feel... Because those who mind
don'tmatter... and those who matter don't mind"
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
Five Gazettes yesterday were returned labelled "mailbox full". I can
only assume those folks either don't read their mail, or, they don't
want mail.


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

October 15, 2007 - Monday

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In grandma's day the biggest baby-sitter problem was diaper rash.
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The current temperature is 29 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 57/34
Normal H/L temp for this date is 57/34
It doesn't happen often but yesterday's Hi and low temperature was
exactly what our "normal" H/L is for this date.
==============================

====
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-----------------------
Dakota Refrigeration and Appliance Co. started business in 1956 on main
street in what was known as the old Walsh County Record building. G.A.
Galle and Fred Sevigny started the business as partners. In 1957 they
bought out Bob and Ray's TV Service and Ray Schultz stayed with them.
In January of 1959 Fred Sevigny bought out Galle and the business
became known as The Grafton Appliance Center. The Grafton Appliance
Center moved into it's new home on the south side of hiway 17 on the
West side of Grafton on December 31, 1966 and has operated out of that
facility since that date.
A early Walsh County Record account of Fred and his Appliance business
gives credit to Clyde Kieley and Clyde's brother Don Kieley for sharing
their experience with him.
Unfortunately, with feelings of sorrow and regret, along with many
others, I attended the "final" auction sale of a business that has
played a significant part of Grafton for more than a half century.
The very first TV set we ever purchased came from Grafton Appliance as
did our first freezer, microwave. I can still remember Fred, standing
alongside of a small freezer, saying, "If you have a freezer like 'dis'
it will pay for itself in no-time with "da" money you will save on
food." and of course he was right. Gosh I miss Fred Sevigny, and, I'm
going to really miss the Grafton Appliance Center too.
-----------------------
Talking about things happening in Grafton. Friday night Pat and I were
"dinning" at Marketplace. Two beautiful young ladies walked in the back
door and sat down just across the dinning room floor from us. Then, a
few minutes later, Two old goats walked in the front door pushing a
pleasant looking elderly "man of the cloth" and they sat down at the
table with the two younger ladies.
When I mentioned that I might find occasion to share that incident in
the Gazette. They indicated that they wouldn't care,.... as long as I
didn't mention any names. So,... I did, and I won't. Except to say that
it was a former Optometrist that didn't recognize us, and, that it took
two attempts by the man that once made his living flying under hi-line
wires to get the Padres wheelchair up to the table. No-matter, I'd be
willing to bet (pardon the pun padre) they'll all do it again sometime
soon.
------------------------
I'm not sure how to comment on the following note except to say that I
have no trouble believing it. >>>>
Hi Gary,
This is in response to your story about Altru. As a person who has dealt
with both sides of the health industry, Canada and the US, I must say
that the US health care is MUCH more desirable than socialized medicine.
My brother-in-law is a doctor in Prince George, BC and he explained
their health system in 3 words...RATIONED HEALTH CARE. And that's
exactly what it is. We do NOT want to end up like Canada. We have a
summer home in BC and the clinic that is down at the end of our road has
to hold fund raisers to be there. The hospital which is 30 miles away,
had to have fund raiser for a CT scan, and any other necessary equipment
needed to run a hospital. And it's not private. Everything is controlled
by the government. The government doesn't have the money to supply any
equipment for this hospital, let alone doctors. There was a day this
summer when there were NO doctors at the hospital! and the doctors they
do get for the most part, aren't young. We have experienced first hand
through my husband's brothers-in-law, that the health care providers
hope you die before you get your treatments for cancer. I have more
horror stories, but it would take too much space. With the population
increasing, perhaps it's time to make Grafton's hospital more like
Altru? Or maybe Grand Forks needs another hospital. But in any case,
just be thankful that we CAN get treatments right away instead of having
to wait months. Just my 2 cents worth.
Mary Small (Lykken) <<<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Mary. I agree kindheartedly.
After all, In light of the fact that we have politicians in Washington
that apparently don't even know what a rest room in an airport should be
used for. How in God's green earth could we expect them to know how to
run our country's health system?
-----------------------
The big signs over our gas pumps in Grafton indicate the price of gas
is in the $2.79 range (now). Some think that's better than is was, some
think it should be better, and, the following note is Berts thought for
the day. >>>
Gary; it is pathetic to see some congressmen yelp how they are
going to go after the Exxon Mobile company because of their high
profits. That is a stupid joke some people even believe is right. They
don't tell you that the oil companies make $0.11 cents oper gallon, far
less than the federal tax per gallon not taking into account the state
tax per gallon. In Wa. state we pay $0.46 per gallon tax per gallon,
better than four (4) times the oil company profits. Bert Overland <<<
Thanks a million for caring and sharing Bert.
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
Thanks Mary, I really do appreciate getting updated addresses.


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

October 12, 2007 - Friday

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CAREER GIRL: A gal who'd rather bring home the bacon than fry it.
----------------------
The current temperature is 45 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 46/41
Normal H/L temp for this date is 59/35
==============================

====
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
It seems like just the other day the folks from Alchem, Grafton's
largest (and only) alcohol distillery was asking our community for a ½
million dollars so they could upgrade their facilities. THEN, the next
thing I knew was they were spending big bucks installing new equipment
to make them even more efficient. THEN, and this was just announced
yesterday. Alchem, the alcohol folks, announced they would be shutting
down Graftons largest (and only) alcohol distillery in a couple weeks
because the price of corn is to high.
I must admit, from time to time, Alchem did emit a smell that could
take some getting used to. Unfortunately, It will take a whole lot more
getting used to not smelling it, if or when it discontinues operation
completely.
--------------------------
One subscriber wrote. >>> Ethanol update
Here's what happens when you convert a food product to an energy
product. Not only does it hurt the consumers with higher food prices, it
hurts the very industry it was supposed to help. This is the tip of the
iceberg, mark my words. We (Taxpaying legal residents) will be
subsidizing this industry big time somewhere down the road.
I had the opportunity to tour the Tesoro refinery in Mandan last spring.
The manager and I discussed ethanol and he echoed my concerns that it
makes absolutely no financial sense to produce ethanol. It costs more to
produce than gasoline from crude oil, it has less power than gasoline,
and it uses a food source as it's raw product, which drives the price of
corn up, which drives the price of everything else up, and even if every
available tillable acre of land in the U.S. was planted into corn and
converted to ethanol we'd still need to import a substantial amount of
foreign oil to keep our country going. Besides that, we'd all starve
eventually. Idiotic idea from the start!!!!! <<<<
Thanks for caring and sharing. Unfortunately, if the profit figures
I've heard from the oil industry of late is true, and they probably are.
I looks like we, the taxpayers, are doing a fair amount of subsIdizing
in that area as well.
-----------------
Although the author of the next note agrees, in general terms, with my
opinion of the medical needs. I'm surprised more haven't taken the
opportunity to share their view. The note said. >>>>
You are right on about the Blues, Altru, and the Aurora. Your comments
today got me thinking about Walmart. Any further word on whether or not
they will be coming to Grafton? <<<<
-------------------
Does anyone remember back when you were ten years old. I certainly
remember that year very well. It was the year I got a brand new bike
from the Coast to Coast store. It was bright red and the wheels were
narrower than the wheels on my friends bikes. It wasn't a ten speed, or
anything like that, and the wheels weren't as skinny as the wheels on a
ten speed. I guess that's why most of my friends made fun of it. I can
still remember not liking my friends making fun of my brand new bike. I
DIDN'T like that.
The thing I remember most about being ten years old was that was the
year I got my mouth washed out with soap,.... several times, as a matter
fact. All, I might add, courtesy of Miss Hulda Carlson. I DIDN'T like
that either. One thing those mouth washing did, however, was teach me
that "Profanity makes ignorance audible". Now I'll admit, it was several
years later before I truly understood that. And, that it was my good
friend Lee Bratlie that eventually shared the quote with me. No matter,
it was a lessen well learned, AND, never forgotten.
ANYWAY, yesterday October 11 marked the day our grandson Jacob turned
10. I think Jacob is a bit taller than I was when I was ten. I know he's
a lot smarter than I was when I was ten. AND, he doesn't have to worry
about Miss Carlson washing his mouth out with soap for using, in the
words of Miss Carlson, "poolhall language". SO,....
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Jacob
Your grandmother and I are very proud of you and we love you very much.
Gramma Patti and Grandpa Gary
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
"There are millions of folks in this world that care to share.
Unfortunately, there are millions who don't."


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

October 10, 2007 - Wednesday

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SUGAR: The Gold Standard of sweeteners
----------------------
The current temperature is 42 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 52/39
Normal H/L temp for this date is 60/36
==============================

====
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-----------------------
I appears sugarbeet harvest will resume, in some areas of the valley,
today. Some folks are guesstimating this years beet harvest is
approximately 40 percent complete.
-----------------------
It's always wonderful to see nice things happen to nice people. Such
was the case in this weeks Midwest edition of American Profile. A
supplement in the Grand Forks Herald. This week American Profile
featured several churches in the Midwest. The story, titled Saving
Sacred Places, features the North Trinity Lutheran Church in rural Nash
North Dakota.
The church was built in 1893 by Swedish immigrants. The article
features a picture of the grand old church along with a picture of of
Kenneth Johnson ringing the bell of the 114 year house of worship. 82
year old Kenneth says he's been ringing the bell since he was a
teenager, and, he says, "A lot of memories are attached to this church."
The last child baptized in the church was JoAnn Lynn Klava, daughter of
David and Lois Klava of Grafton, on June 22, 1958. The marriage of David
Klava and Lois Johnson December 14, 1952, is the last so documented in
North Trinity.
Regular services ended at North Trinity in 1953 however Johnson and a
half dozen other volunteers have maintained the white clapboard building
for more than a half century. "There's no worse eyesore than a church
falling down."
Ken continues to maintain the long-standing tradition of ringing the
bell at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve. For more years than many can remember
Kenny has also been "keeper of the records". Kenneth Johnson, a
wonderful individual, doing wonderful work, caring for North Trinity's
wonderful house of the Lord.
------------------------
Nels Folson of Hoople started growing potatoes in 1905; he is credited
with shipping the first carload of potatoes for food from the state. By
1908 Folson had built a 100,000 bushel potato warehouse.
---------------------
Wash Water Users Inc. became incorporated July 26, 1971. The original
board of directors consisted of Earl Anderson, James E. Johnston,
Francis McCann, Harlan Thompson, George Chyle, Allen Fagerholt and
Montelle Boone. F.W. (Bill) Greenagel was retained as attorney for the
district.
----------------------
I must admit, I'm a bit surprised that I only received on comment
relative to yesterdays Gazette. It said >>>>
Nice response about Altru. In the end, what happened to you proves
there is a need for more beds in GFK. Why should anyone have to go to
Fargo? Altru told you they were full. That means they don't have enough.
As with the power company they need to plan for reasonable peak time.
Competition solves all problems! <<< Thanks a million for caring and
sharing. Although I believe the idea that competition solves every
problem may not always be true. Take cancer, for instance. When good
healthy cells in the body must compete with ferocious cancer cells,
often, unfortunately, the healthy cells lose. When Giant corporations
move into small towns and decide they are "entitled" to the market
share. Unfortunately small business disappears allowing the giant
corporations control of, and, the ability to control product inventory
and prices.
Or so it seems to me.
------------------------
This note proves timeliness truly isn't important if you really care to
share.
Kevin wrote, >>> Gary,
Love the Skeeterville newsletter, it keeps those of us in the Pacific
Northwest connected with Grafton.
I would like to point out that in addition the Grafton Marching Band
reunion at Summerfest, there was also one other band reunion of note.
The rock band "Twilight" came out of retirement to perform at the Class
of 1982 25-year reunion out at JR's bar in Oakwood. The band members (4
of whom are members of the Class of 1982) are Kevin Votava, Jim
DeSautel, Barry Kingsbury, Kevin Dusek and Bob Schultz. I hear a rumour
that footage may end up on YouTube!
Regards,
Kevin Votava <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Kevin
------------------------
Pat and I were having supper at Marketplace tonight when a good looking
young gentleman dressed in a suit and tie walked in. Shortly after he
sat down he asked If I was Gary Moe, of course I was and when he told me
his name was Ryan, Gary Fischer's son, and that he was - you'll have to
forgive me for this part - a temporary pastor at a church in Hoople. He
did tell me the name of the church and the correct term, I just forgot
what he said. Anyway, WOW, I thought, to think I would bump into Ann and
Gary Fischer's son right here in Grafton after all these years.
We talked for a bit, then I told him how important his father has been
to me and my life and that I often think of my early days at American
Crystal and the time I spent working in the laboratory in Drayton. It
really is a small world isn't it?
-----------------------
HAPPY BIRTHDAY -- CRAIG PERRY
Today is the day you celebrate the anniversary of your birth. We hope
your special day affords you all of the wonderful things you are
entitled to.
We love you Craig.
Aunt Pat and Uncle Gary
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
"If you don't have an opinion, you probably haven't spent enough time
pondering the problem." 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.

October 9, 2007 - Tuesday - Evening Edition

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The reason a dog is a good friend: his tail wags, not his tongue.
---------------------
The current temperature is 43 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 48/40
Normal H/L temp for this date is 60/36
==============================

====
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-----------------------
The following note was dated Wednesday Oct, 3rd although I just
received it yesterday. It must have spent the past week somewhere in
cyberspace.
Subject: BENEFIT!!
Hi....just a few words on how GREAT the benefit was on Sunday for
CINDY FLICEK... it was held at St. John's Catholic Church.....
Wonderful food & help....... Wally DeSautel wasour door greeter which
he did a goodjob.......... Suzie & crewfrom Market Place
did all the cooking.... Emily Hills &the Volleyball girls did a
tremendous job helping plus our servers, kitchen help & the guys (even
got my Hubby John working on foot ball day). We had our friends from
Bemidji here to help.... ALOT of Cindy's family drove up for it which
was GREAT.......... Troy from Granny's donated as well but had to
work at his own place or he would have been there also. SO MANY people
to THANK......... it was a GREAT success & THANK you all a million...
Agnes Beier
<<<< Thank you for caring and sharing Agnes. REMEMBER:
EACH OF US IS A VITAL THREAD IN ANOTHERPERSON'S TAPESTRY;
OUR LIVES ARE WOVEN TOGETHER FOR A REASON.
One of the best things to hold onto in this world is a friend.
(Howard & Rose)
------------------------
Joyce cared enough to share the following thoughts after reading my
comments in the 10/03/07 Gazette. >>>> Gary
As an employee of Altru I feel that I need to respond to your recent
comments regarding Altru Health System access.
To address your first issue with Altru, yes there are times when Altru
is at full capacity. While this is not a daily occurrence, it can
happen. I would think that as a family member of a critically ill
patient you would appreciate the fact that Altru recognized that they
could not provide the acute care that your mother-in-law required and
was looking out for her best interests by referring her to another
hospital. Altru was certainly not looking out for their "bottom line".
They placed the well being of your mother-in-law above all else. I have
to wonder if a "for profit" facility would of been willing to do that?
Bottom line is that our national health care system is not perfect. We
here in North Dakota are very lucky to have the quality of healthcare
that we do. In other parts of the nation you may not even be able to
find a hospital to accept a critically ill patient or you may spend
hours upon hours just to see a doctor. Instead of spreading negative
thoughts, perhaps we should be thankful for what we have and celebrate
the fact that right now we do have hospitals that look out for the best
interest of the patient, not just the bottom line.
Joyce Simmons <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Joyce. Please
forgive me if my comments allowed you to perceive them as "negative"
toward the Altru Organization. From my prospective, anyway, that
certainly was not the intent. Of course I appreciate the fact that Altru
said they were full and couldn't handle Ma. However, that in no way
changes the frustrations of having to go an additional 80 miles for
emergency treatment. From my prospective, if there is any "negativity"
in the entire issue, it might be suggesting that "another" medical
facility wouldn't hold a patients needs above all else. Or, that by some
magic, unbeknownst to me, the fact that ND Blue Cross Blue Shield
withholding support for a new medical facility is in fact in the best
interest of the specific case of which I speak.
You see Joyce, my issue is not with Altru, nor any other medical
institution for that matter. It is with the administration of the
myriads of rules and regulations our society deems necessary to regulate
and pay for our healthcare systems.
The fact that the administration of NDBCBS has determined that a
proposed medical facility is not worthy of consideration, even before it
is constructed and staffed, leaves me great cause for concern. After
all, there remains a very real possibility that some, maybe even
several, of Altru's wonderful staff will end up at that new facility. If
the truth be known, it would be just short of a miracle if that doesn't
happen.
Personally I will stand by Grafton's Unity Medical Center, the Grand
Forks Altru facilities and their wonderful staffs for as long as I
possibly can. I would hope everyone else would do the same.
---------------------
Rumor has it there are actually folks in Grafton that don't believe we
need flood protection for the long term viability of this community.
Personally, I find it hard to believe there could be someone so naive as
to believe Grafton can survive without such protection. One simply need
ask the folks from Winnipeg, Warren or Roseau the trials and
tribulations of a town without flood control, and, the benefits flood
protection affords those communities.
One should also keep in mind that at the time their community leaders
made the decision to protect their homes and businesses. Many or most of
their constituents spoke out against them. Today, however, most of those
same folks that spoke against flood protection, are extremely thankful
for their foresight.
A community without adequate flood protection, unless perched on top of
the highest mountain, most certainly will perish.
Or so it seems to me.
--------------------------
Jack sent us the following note. >>>
Hi Gary
Just a note too remember Laurayne 'Dolly' (Kennedy) Bothun who passed
away last week in Grand Forks.
She was a sister of Dorothy (Warren) Wilson.
Dolly was a GHS class of 1946 graduate.
We were classmates in Voss and in Grafton.
Jack Babinski <<< Thank you for caring and sharing Jack. Our sympathies
go out to Laurayne's family. Many of my "sugar tramp" friends will
remember Laurayne's brother Wen Kennedy as well. Wen was a very well
known and respected Beta beet seed representative in the Minto and Voss
area for a good many years.
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
"It is the ability to exchange ideas and principles, openly and
honestly, that makes the difference between our country and much of the
rest of the world."
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.

October 9, 2007 - Tuesday

Good luck is a lazy man's estimate of a workers success.
----------------------
The current temperature is 37 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 48/40
Normal H/L temp for this date is 60/36
Total rainfall over the last rain event ranges from a bit under an inch
to quite a bit over it. Depending on whether you talk to the first guy
in the cafe, or the last one.
==============================

====
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
This morning while driving past the former home of Red's Dinning and
Sports Bar. I noticed the large for rent signs had been removed from the
windows. My first thought was that it's possible that someone had
decided to reopen the former Reds/Shananigan's restaurant.
Later on yesterday afternoon I received the following note from Erick
clearing up any possible question as to the new occupants of that
facility. Erick wrote. >>>
Morning,
As of today, Monday October 8th, We have moved our business to 40 E
12th St (the former Red's and Shananigan's building) from our spot
at20 E 12th St (Former Barb's Property Mgmt). This will allow us
to carry a greater inventory and provide more services such as ink
cartridge refilling and certain custom products in the near future.
We are open and ready for business andwill be getting more
streamlined and adding more products daily as long as UPS and fedex
continue to show up. Thank you for all you have done and thank you
for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Erick K. Soltvedt
Combined Wireless
Alltel Authorized Agent
40 E 12th St
Grafton, ND 58237 <<< Congratulations and good luck in your new and
expanded facilities Erick. Thanks a million also for the update. If
anyone is in need of just about anything in the line of office supplies,
you might do well giving Erick a call.
-------------------
Whenever I mention Chandler Field someone finds reason to share
something. Kathy would like to share her thoughts and observations. >>>
RE: Chandler Field
Speaking of Happy Chandler last week and all the times that this Grafton
community comes through reminded me the Chandler baseball field that is
starting to really take shape. If you haven't noticed-take time to slow
down when you drive by. I know that there have many people working on
this, however there is always one individual that is almost always
amidst the others or often times working on the field alone. Driving
by during many evenings and weekends Brent McMillan can be seen working
on the field, watering, shovelling, raking, building this or moving
that. From the beginning stages of the grant writing, and each step
along the way, his support and dedication to this project Brent has
logged many many volunteer hours. On behalf of the parents whose
children will play ball many years to come on these diamonds we want to
thank Brent and all of the others who are working on this field of
dreams. Kathy K. Larson<<<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing
Kathy. From every indication I see. The newly configured Chandler field
should serve us well for many years to come and will make us all proud
of the wonderful facilities. I too would like to thank all of those
involved with this most worthy project.
------------------------
If you get a chance to drive by the intersection of 12th street and
McHugh Avenue (preferably at night) you will see a fantastic selection
of Ghosts, Ghouls, and Goblins. The residence, once owned by Bob Dahl,
has been adorned with a dozen or more Halloween characters complete with
sufficient lighting to enhance our evening enjoyment.
It should also be noted that several other local households are
displaying various Trick or Treat decorations geared toward the
Halloween season.
------------------------
I'm sure glad I never said anything about never making a mistake
yesterday when I mention my first correspondence with the Gazette was
with my two daughters. Almost before I could say darn, bugger, heck,
shucks I received the following note from number one son. He wrote. >>>
You said it started out with your two daughters, what about your son?
I remember getting them from the start.
Jeff <<< Thanks a million Jeff. You most certainly are right. As a
matter of fact, if I remember correctly, it was you that finally
translated the proper operating instruction for this thing. Thanks again
Jeff for your patience and understanding.
------------------------
Rumor has it the Red River Valley Sugar Beet crop is approximately 40
harvested. That, of course, is based on the best guess estimate of the
best guesstimaters in the business. The exact number will not be know
until the last beet is harvested. And, no one seems to want to guess
when that will be.
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
Gosh it's great hearing from members of the Gazette family. If you
prefer I not mention your name or share your note with the rest, simply
say so and your note will be kept strictly confidential.
Please remember, if you don't tell me, I can't know. If I don't know, I
can't share with anyone.


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

October 8, 2007 - Monday

-----------------------
How long a minute is, depends on which side of the bathroom door you
happen to be on.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 44 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 52/46
Normal H/L temp for this date is 61/37
The lowest temperature on this date in 2000 was 18 degrees.
It hasn't been raining for forty days and forty night,... yet. However,
there are reports of an old man with a beard, his wife, their three sons
and their wives stacking up lumber on the west edge of town.
==============================

====
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
Our local elevator has started building another pile of this years
bountiful harvest on the ground east of the curling club. It looks like
enough feed to last a large herd of animals almost six weeks.
That would give credence to the rumor that several pairs of livestock
have been seen heading for town.
It is true that it already seems like it's been raining a long time. On
the other hand we have one advantage hear that the folks down south
don't have. It is a certainty that it will not rain much longer... here
at least,... eventually it "will" turn to snow. Or so it seems to me.
-------------------------
Pat and I would like to extend our most heartfelt appreciation to
everyone sending well wishes and condolences on the passing of our
beloved Mother and Mother-in law. That so many wonderful members of the
Gazette family cared enough to share their thoughts and prayers with us,
is truly heartwarming. I'm amazed when I think that the Gazette started
as nothing more than exchanging thoughts and ideas between myself and
our two daughters and that it has grown to
what it is today.
To arrive at a total number of folks receiving the Gazette today would
be difficult at best. However, my best guess is, if everyone were in one
town, there would be more than six intersections with stoplights on
them.
----------------------
On a more pleasant note. Thanks a million to everyone for the numerous
congratulatory messages we received on our 47 wedding anniversary. We
will be eternally grateful for such acts of kindness.
Pat and I spent the night at the Early American Monetary Distribution
Center by the shores of the Lake of Devils. Though one should never
expect winning while participating in their neon lit games of chance.
Our latest venture just might have given Custer reason to smile.
We topped off our venture with a super breakfast at Mrs. & Mr. J's
Sunday morning and returned home in the same vehicle we left in.
--------------------------
Gary,
Just wanted to wish you and Pat a very happy 47th anniversary in
advance. You also share that special day with my sister and her husband,
Karen (Klava) & John Czapiewski (Minot) who have been married for 29
years! You brought tears to my eyes with your wonderful tribute to your
sweetheart, Pat. Thanks for sharing Gary!
Thank You,
Sarah D. Klava
++++
Congratulations to you and Pat on your 47 years of marriage! My
parents, Dan and Delores Burianek, will be celebrating 45 years on
October 16th. I thank them so much for the wonderful example they have
set for us about marriage. It is fun to listen to their stories about
the years, especially the ones when times were pretty tough. Their love
for one another got them through it...along with their strong faith.
Thank you, both couples, for the wonderful example you have given to us.
Happy Anniversary!
Tara Halvorson
++++
We also received several like the following, and,... I suppose, after
47 years one might expect them. >>>>
Happy Anniversary Gary and Pat! You've been together longer than I've
been alive!!!
-------------------------
We receive several requests every week from folks interested in
receiving the Gazette. Often, they come with a "please do not share our
name in the Gazette", sometimes not. Of course if anyone sends anything
to me and does not want it shared either in the Gazette, or with anyone
else for that matter. I will, most certainly, honor that request. Once
in awhile though, if not directed differently, it is fun to "share"
requests as they tend to offer tidbits of information others can relate
to. For instance, Rita sent the following. >>> Dear Gary, Upon
conversation with Lee and Connie Kieley, they thought my husband and
myself would enjoy your Gazette. Hey, it's great and would love to be
placed on your mailing list if you wouldn't mind. By the way, our
good friend Lambert Brunkhorst has said that he has met you. Tis a
small world. Thanks bunches.
Rita Williamson Soine <<< Thanks a million Rita and welcome to the
Gazette family. Please keep in mind that the information received from
the Gazette, will often be worth less than the price of the
subscription. If the truth be known, I suspect some, if not most, of the
thunder one hears is from Hulda Carlson, Cora Lykken or Agnes Qualley.
They are, among others, from my "formative" years, most certainly still
trying to correct my communication skills, both written and verbal.
Our mutual friends the Brunkhorst's have a place in the south park at
Arnesen's Rocky Point Resort. This summer I watched as Lambert converted
a trailer house entry into a really nice ice house. His carpentry skills
surprised me. His skills of procrastination, only to be exceeded, I
might add, by mine.
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
P.S.
I nobody tells me, I won't know. If I don't know, I can't tell anybody
else.


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

October 5, 2007 - Friday - Grafton, ND

-----------------------
Hippies who don't shower,
can overpower the flower.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 49 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 64/44
Normal H/L temp for this date is 62/38
At the present time we are receiving thunder and rain.
==============================

====
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
Ever wonder why "all" the leaves, on "all" the trees can't fall off
at the same time? Maybe it's just Mother Natures way of getting even
with us, for not being environmentally friendly.
-------------------------
It really is a fact. There is a very real, and serious, diesel fuel
shortage in this country. I wonder what "we" will do, if "they" don't do
something about it soon?
Oops, there's that "we & they" thing again. It seems to pop up every
year around the time. Most often though, it comes in the form of -
don't they know we are going to start losing our help if they keep
starting and stopping harvest like this. Or maybe,... who do "they"
think "they" are paying there truck drivers so much? Don't "they" know
"we" will just have to pay our drivers even more to keep them?
Then there's, why didn't "They" know this was going to happen before
"we" planted. "They" should have known "we" might run into trouble.
After all, that's why "we" pay "them".
Darn, bugger, heck, shucks,... the world just might be a whole lot
better place to live if "we" could only understand that "we" are the
"they", "they" talk about when "we" screw up. Or so it seems to me.
------------------------
Dale Peterson stopped by the other day to show us a 1953 Home Cafe desk
calendar. The calendar listed Mr & Mrs Ben Nelson as Proprietors.
Question. Where was the cafe located? Was the Ben Nelson family related
to the rest of the Nelsons in the area? And, does anyone remember who
worked there?
++++
Dale also brought along a baseball signed by Happy Chandler and one
signed by all the members of the Grand Forks Chiefs baseball team. I
understand Dale purchased the baseballs from a garage sale at the Joe &
Avis Birkeland residence several years ago. Dale indicated that he
thought maybe Joe obtained the baseballs after a game between The Grand
Forks Chiefs and the Eau Claire Bears held at Chandler Field in Grafton.
Speaking of baseball and Chandler Field. I remember well the "dugouts"
in the old Chandler Field. Though particularly proud of the fact, that's
where I learned to smoke. Anyway, the "dugouts" in the old ball park
were actually dugout of the ground. I notice the new "dugouts," in the
new Chandler Field ball diamond, are being built above ground. So,...
will they become "dugups"?
-----------------------
Today (Friday) is the day that Ruth (Demester) Peterson celebrates the
anniversary of her birth. Ruth is absolute proof that one can stay young
and cool even though the temperature over her birthday cake continues to
increase. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Ruth, we love you very much.
Aunt Pat and Uncle Gary
------------------------
Tomorrow, (Saturday) Tiffany, our first born granddaughter will be
blowing out another candle on her birthday cake.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Tiffany, your Gramma Patti and Grandpa Gary love you
very much.
------------------------
Sunday, October 7, 2007 will be a very special day for me. It will mark
the 47th consecutive year that Pat has tolerated all of my
idiosyncracies. Most folks would agree that long term marriages require
the effort of both people involved. I sure do. Some folks believe long
term marriages are the end result of a full and complete partnership
(team) effort. I know I sure do. A few folks might even go so far as to
say that both parties in a long term successful marriage will, from time
to time, need copious amounts of patience and understanding. I too,
agree with those folks.
However, fortunately for me, there is an individual in this world with
the God given ability to tolerate me. An angel of sorts, with the
strength, ability and fortitude to channel me and my life in the proper
direction.
After 47 years of caring and sharing I feel extremely fortunate to be
able to call Pat my sweetheart, my lover and my friend.
I love you Patricia Margaret Moe. You are not only my wife, you are my
life.
==================================
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.

October 4, 2007 - Thursday - Grafton, ND

-----------------------
The dimmest lights always seem to have the most scandal power.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 55 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 75/36
Normal H/L temp for this date is 62/38
Normal N.D. temperature is to warm to be cold, and to cold to be warm.
==============================

====
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff
-----------------------
The buildings on the corner of 4th street and Griggs Avenue that once
housed Mattson Manufacturing and later Wilson Bros. Auto Parts store
has been given a brand new face lift.
Scott and Peppy Robideaux's Tae Kwan Do, health and exercise facility
is sporting (pardon the pun) a brand new paint job.
That corner of town has seen significant improvements over the past
several weeks. Besides the Robideaux property, B & D flooring on the
next corner south received a new coat of paint while just across the
street to the west of B & D Flooring the Country Smokehouse opened their
doors in a completely refurbished building. Then too, right in the
middle of all that is the former Hvidsten Implement building which has
been all cleaned up and has become a part of The Storage Pros, (Mike
DeSauyel) storage operation.
Who said good things never happen in Grafton?
------------------------
Speaking of good things from Grafton. This morning, and it isn't even
Christmas. Tom Campbell walked into Granny's bearing gifts in the form
of individually wrapped, uniform sized red potatoes. Ready to pop into a
microwave. Tom says they are, or will be, in Wally's in Grafton as well
as several other stores in the area soon.
Denny Schneider stuck one in Granny's Microwave for 6˝ minutes and it
was delicious. Look for Tri Campbell Farms "Red Bakers" in your local
grocery store.
-------------------------
The former Penney's store on main street has taken on a new life of
sorts as well. Denise & Dennis Sevigny proprietors of Grafton Embroidery
Plus is using the front display windows of the Penny's building to show
off an even larger assortment of items The Embroidery Plus has to offer.
What a fantastic idea. Denise & Dennis Sevigny are to be commended for
helping Grafton be all that it can be.
It would be wonderful to see others of our business community take note
and fill the rest of the vacant display windows with their wares.
------------------------
I filled the motorhome with gas and propane yesterday. I thought,
before gas prices increase, again. Rats, wouldn't you know it? Today the
price of gas in Grafton dropped a whole dime. If I read the signs right,
gas in Grafton is $2.79, give or take a penny.
I'm not sure if I should be thanking the sheet heads over seas, or the
upcoming election for the drop.
Unfortunately, most, if not all of the trucks and farm equipment in the
valley runs on diesel fuel and that product is not only very expensive,
it is very difficult to come by.
I would be more than willing to agree with Al Gore about the global
warming issue, if Al and his cronies would agree to allow more
gasification plants in the country. So the folks I have coffee with in
the morning, could grow and deliver the groceries I eat in the
afternoon.
-----------------------
I am well aware that every time I write the Gazette in invisible ink
for an extended period of time. I risk losing subscribers. If I read
Lees note correctly, I almost lost him. Lee wrote. >>>> I'mnot sure
aboutpeople forgetting to empty their mailbox, however it would
appear it's the time of year to get back to publishing the Gazette. I
was so disgusted with the poor service this summer I was going to cancel
my subscription, but I figured the subscription manager was baiting your
hook for you and wasn't around to handle a cancellation anyway. <<<
Thanks a million for "hanging on" Lee. However, I must confess that I am
not only the "Master" of my ship, I am the "Baiter" of my hook as well.
If you know what I mean.
------------------------
I am pleased that Marjie cared enough to share the following. Her
message also includes another possible use for our wonderful
campground. She wrote. >>>
Good to have you back, Gary.
It's been an interesting summerbreak for me. I've had two
surgeries since April. Thankfully I'm unfamiliar with being a patient
and spent as little time as possible as one. Now I just need to get back
in the habit of going to the gym.
One of my dreams in this life was to spend a large part of the
summer at the beach and Icame pretty close to accomplishing that,
spending 3 1/2 weeks at various beaches from Myrtle Beach, SC( 3
days)to Fripp Island, SC(2 weeks) to Corrollain the Outer Banks of
NC(1week).
I was able to start biking again, got back into swimming, climbed
two lighthouses in 5 days with nary a twinge in my knee. I need to send
a note of thanks to my orthopedist for doing a goodjob. I enjoyed all
sorts of wildlife fromwood storksto sharks and gatorsto deer.
I met my husband and friends in Las Vegas, my first and probably
last trip out there. It's not my kind of place. I prefer the uncrowded
beaches of the Carolinas. I finished up by visiting my daughter and
son-in-law in their new home in northern VA.
Usually spring is considered a time for new beginnings but for me
this year, fall is. I returned home with renewed energyto what needs
to be done. Autumn has always been one of my favorite times of the year.

I've included a few pictures. Hope you don't mind.
Regarding your comments about the lack of use of your campgrounds in
Grafton, it'slikely too late for next year's tour but someone from
Grafton might want to contact the organizer's of the Red River
International Bike Tour(RRIBT, Mike Kellogg) about putting Grafton on
the itinerary. I think the host communities enjoyed the cyclists as much
as we enjoyed being hosted.
Marjie <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Margie. The
pictures were super although I must admit the one of the gator gives me
goose bumps.
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
If, after several days of trying, I keep getting the Gazette back with
a note saying "mailbox is full", or "address unknown" I can only assume
that person no longer reads the mail, or, that they have moved on to
bigger and better things. Hence under those circumstances I discontinue
sending the Gazette to that address. If that is in error, please let me
know and I will add the address back in the list.


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

October 3, 2007 - Wednesday - Grafton, ND

Man is not dignified when he is led to think that he doesn't really
have to work.
---------------------
The current temperature is 45 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 71/31
Normal H/L temp for this date is 63/38
The low temp on this date in 1989 was 15. There must really be
something to this globel warming thing.
==============================

====
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
NEWS & STUFF, mostly stuff.
----------------------
Thanks a million Verna, for caring and sharing the following note. >>>>
Dear Gary;
Thank you very much for the Skeeterville Gazette that I enjoy receiving.
I live in Mesa, AZ and right now I am visiting my daughter Debbie
(Hegranes) and her hubby Dave in Mass. right now we are at their lake
home near Lee, Mass. and as I look out over the lake I see the beautiful
colors of the trees on the Birkshire Mountains.
My main reason for writing was first to thank you and to tell whoever
remembers my brother Carl Peterson who lived in Stephen in his younger
years died at the age of 90 in Tenn. near his daughter Connie and son in
Law Junior Keen. Carl was in a nursing home at the time of his
death. A memorial service was held in Tenn. It is intended that
the ashes will be returned to Minn. for a service next spring and
burial will be by his wife Jane where Carl gravesite is too.
We are the siblings of Carl August & Amanda Peterson. The
siblings-Ruth of California, Violet of Upham, ND, Hannah Benson Stephen,
Lila Groves, Minnesota, Carl Peterson, Tenn. Melvina Campbell Apple
Valley, Minn. All have preceded Carl in death except Verna Hegranes
Peterson who now lives in Mesa, AZ.
Thanks Gary.
Verna Hegranes (Grafton, ND) up to 1966
------------------------
I received the following note from my good friend Ralph. >>>>
You work on your dash all the time, my friend. Like my Mennonite
neighbors, by the life you live you are proof that we are witnesses to
our Lord when we don't even realize it. Just continue living the life
you have been and your dash will be completed as it should be.
Ralph Kingsbury <<<< Ralph not only writes kind and wonderful notes to
me, he writes an "econ" column in the Grand Forks Herald which I also
read religiously. In todays Grand Forks Herald I learned that Ralph is
also willing to share his opinion of the North Dakota Blue Cross and
Blue Shield NOT wanting to support a new hospital in Grand Forks.
Ralphs article included some pretty heavy arguments against the big
Blues rational. Now, I'm not an economist. Heck I still think fishing is
a cheap way to feed a family. However, on Saturday Sept 15th just past,
as my Mother-in-law lay in the emergency roon of Graftons Unity hospital
suffering from a stroke. It was determined, and rightfully so, that she
would need the care of a much larger, better equipped, hospital
facility. Since Altru hospital in Grand Forks was the closest, 40 miles
south, it seemed logical that is where Ma should go for treatment.
UNFORTUNATELY, we were told that Altru would not be able to take her.
It is my understanding that they were in fact "full up" or some such
thing. So, my 98 year old Mother-in-law had to be transferred to the
Merit Care facilities in Fargo 80 miles farther down the road.
Now then,... are the folks calling the shots at NDBC&BS going to try
convince me that it is in the best interest of my Mother-in-law, and,
the people that pay fortunes in insurance premiums to travel an
additional 80 miles for emergincy medical treatment. Treatment, that by
everyones admission, is most crucial in the fist few minutes, and
certainly not in several hours.
I believe that Big Blues decision to blackball the new proposed
hospital in Grand Forks is a grave (pardon the pun) mistake. I would
hope the general population would rise up and tell them so. Of course I
am aware there are pros and cons to such a serious issue. Of course
there will be circumstances arising for and against the proposal.
However, in my opinion, insurance companies should be responsible to the
folks that pay the premiums and NOT to the folks that create the reasons
they are skyrocketing.
I will never be convinced that forcing a 98 year old women to ride an
"extra" 80 miles is prudent medical practice.
Or so it seems to me.
---------------------------
"Patting yourself on the back is much easier, if your already bending
over backwards helping someone else."
---------------------------
Speaking of my wonderful Mother-in-law, and what's new in town. Wally
cared to share the following. >>>
Hi Gary
Glad to have you back. I am sure the fish feel a lot safer.
We have missed the Gazette. Nothing left to provoke us on
the right track.
WHAT IS NEW IN TOWN? Every ones friend Margaret
Demester had a funeral befitting her deeds in life. It was a tribute to
her for all she has done for her fellow man. I will miss her but she
left a head full of memories with me.
Also new is the Bison Manufacturing has painted all the buildings
at the former Hart Property and it looks great. It is a great addition
to our east entrance to Grafton.
Hats off to Judy Evens for getting the group together for dolling
up our town. I walked our dog Casey tonite and I noticed how much work
was done. It looks great. Thanks Judy and all your helpers for a super
job.
The Fund raiser for our friend Cindy Flicek was a booming
success. It was at St. Johns Parish center. Talk about fresh bakery
goods. Table after table filled to galore. Thanks every one for a
wonderful event. It makes me proud to live in this community.
Oh yah, this frenchman with an equal mixture of Bohunk went on
my annual pilgrimage to the Park River Bible Camp for that wonderful
fish, whatever they call it. I have heard it called most everything but
I love it. I have said it before many times, I would drive a hundred
miles to eat that stuff and the lefse and let the butter drip down my
chin.
My Norwegian/Swedish wife loved the meet balls. I told
her she just doesn't know a good thing. Her simple answer was, I
married you didn't I?
Have a good nite, invite me for coffee and be good ol
boy. Wally
P.S. I wonder how many printing errors I made? I'm to busy to stop for
things like that. <<<<
Thanks a million Wally. I'm guessing the "stuff" you speak of is
lutefisk. The word I got is this years lutefisk was especially good. I
could be wrong but I wonder if the term "good lutefisk" isn't a
oxymoran, of sorts. Or so it seems to me.
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
This must be the time of year when many folks forget to empty their
mailbox.


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

October 2, 2007 - Tuesday - Grafton, ND

EACH OF US IS A VITAL THREAD IN ANOTHERPERSON'S TAPESTRY; OUR
LIVES ARE WOVEN TOGETHER FOR A REASON. One of the best things to hold
onto in this world is a friend. (Howard & Rose)
-----------------------
The current temperature is 51 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 71/31
Normal H/L temp for this date is 63/39
The low temp on this day in 1999 was 19. The forecast for the next
week is for normal to above normal temps.
==============================

====
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
LOCAL NEWS & STUFF, mostly stuff.
-----------------------
I was pleased to learn the former Hart machine and manufacturing
facilities are being used again. The sign out front says Bison Mfg Inc.
and they are in the business of making a newfangeled combine rotor that
turns a ordinary combine into a super duper bean threshing machine. So
I've been told.
So far they haven't come up with any improvements for my Walleye
combine but I'll keep hoping. One thing is certain, the new paint job on
all of the Bison buildings has improved the east entrance to town
significantly.
------------------------
I understand Grabanski's giant corn storage and drying operation
just west of town is also up and running.
------------------------
I wasn't here when it happened, however, I understand a whole
bunch of folks got together the other day and had a "clean up Grafton
drive" of sorts. All, as I understand it, with the intention of making
Grafton a more appealing place to shop.
Like all towns, big or small, a clean appearance certainly is one
aspect of making a community a shopping destination.
Businesses with well trained Professional staffing is another
prerequisite to a communities success. It is also extremely important
that local businesses maintain ridged (dependable) business hours
providing the service they advertise in a timely manner.
Also, it seems to me, If the local business community, of any
community, expects the residence of that community to shop local, the
owners of those businesses "must" also shop local. Again I find it
somewhat ironic that even when a community "literally gives" a facility
that has been "donated to the city" in lue of someones unpaid taxes,
there is absolutely no stipulations as to where the labor and supplies
to refurbish those facilities should come from. Often that practice
costs the community additional 10's of thousands of dollars in lost
local revenue.
Then of course there is my own personal pet pieve, local
campgrounds, and the potential benefits they can afford the business
community. Last Saturday as I drove thru Drayton I noticed the new
campground there had 10 individual campers in it. Graftons on the other
hand had only one. Again, in my opinion, "our" campground could easily
have had ten times that number, and more. I also noticed that not only
was our campground empty, so too was Leistikow Park. I might also note
that at the same time the entire south athletic facility seemed
abandoned as well.
Yes it is true that communities large and small all have issues
that beg addressing. And even though I wouldn't trade my wonderful
little community for any other in the world. I would be less than honest
if I didn't admit we do have much room for improvement.
I really do enjoy hearing folks say they drove through Grafton the
other day and it really did look nice. (and I have) On the other hand, I
would much prefer hearing them say, "I stopped in a couple Grafton
stores the other day and I was really pleased with their inventory and
their warm, friendly professional service."
Or so it seems to me.
----------------------
Ever wonder why every price tag on every item in a grocery store
says SAVE?
Ever wonder which rabbits foot really is the lucky one? It's
certainly not the one on my key chain.
Ever wonder what happened to the "old" Standard oil bulk building
on east 8th street. The owners of that facility should be commended for
causing it's removal instead of "donating" it to the city for taxes as
so many other structures have in the past.
------------------------
It's beet harvest time and time to remind everyone to please drive
careful. Throughout the course of sugarbeet harvest in the Red River
Valley there will be literally 10's of thousands of truckloads of
sugarbeets going from field to storage site as well as from numerous
storage sites to the factories.
A serious accident can turn a sweet crop sour.
==================================
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.

October 1, 2007 - Monday - Grafton, ND

10/01/07 MONDAY
---------------------
"Only dead fish swim with the stream."
---------------------
The present temperature is 48 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 72/41
Normal H/L temp for this date is 64/37
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"Profanity makes ignorance audible"
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LOCAL NEWS & STUFF, mostly stuff.
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Saturday afternoon, while standing on the edge of Arnesen's Rocky
Point Resort Marina, I found it difficult to realize yet another summer
season had already come to past. As I watched the waves breaking against
the rocks protecting the jetty from mother natures elements, it became
clear it would be the last time, certainly for this year, that I would
be able to appreciate the beautiful view of the lake, and, the fantastic
facilities that have been so much a part of my life for so many summers.
Saying goodbye to all of the wonderful folks that make Rocky Point our
summer home was never easy. This year, however, it seemed to be even
more difficult.
It's almost impossible to find the proper words to thank the Arnesen
family for all they've done for us during our stay there this summer.
The same is true for the entire Rocky Point Staff. Their kindness,
concern and sincerity for me and for my whole family is nothing short of
unbelieveable.
As I stood there watching the majestic waves splashing over the rocks.
I thought of the numerous friendships we've made over the years. That
our "old friends" seemed closer, and, that the new ones seemed even
nearer is undoubtedly one of the main reasons I have come to appreciate
our stay at Rocky Point as much as I do.
With a tear in my eye and a lump in my throat, I closed the door to the
motorhome and drove away from my wonderful summers stay. As I rounded
the curve and the lake disappeared from my rear view mirror, I swallowed
one last time. It was then decided that looking straight ahead would not
only take me home for the winter, but also, if the good Lord's willing,
eventually, it would lead me back to our fabulous summer retreat.
Now that I'm home and "almost" settled in, it's time I get busy
writing the Gazette again. If you have something you'd like to share, I
can assure you of one thing, I really do care.
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GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
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P.S.
If you are receiving the Gazette and would prefer not. Please let me
know.


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

HEAVEN HAS ANOTHER ANGEL

Thursday my Mother-in-Law Margaret Demester passed away. I have tried to

compose something about the wonderful lady that has been such a major
part of my life for so many years, however, so far everything seems to
get jumbled up in my mind.
Rest assured, however, I will eventually put my thoughts and memories
in print. I will also make a serious attempt at properly recognizing the
fantastic facilities of Fargo's MeritCare organization. Most
specifically the palliative care unit and the folks that work in that
unit of the facility.
I expect my "journey" will begin somewhere on or about 10:05 am on
Saturday the 15th of September when we first become aware that "Ma"
wasn't answering her phone. I will mention the Grafton's Valley
Ambulance and Rescue squad and their super organization as well as the
Grafton Police Department and the wonderful folks that make up that
faction of our city.
My journey will take us to Graftons Unity Hospital and the great
service it, and it's staff provides our residents. I may even mention a
bit of disappointment that we were unable to transfer Ma to Altru in
Grand Forks and had to take her an additional 80 miles to Fargo. It
seems Altru was full, booked up and they couldn't take Ma.
Fortunately, the MeritCare organization in Fargo could, and, that will
be the very "jist" of my journey. That is to say the "Merits" of the
Care that facility and it's staff provided, not only Ma, but her entire
family.
For now, and, until I can better share the "merits" of MeritCare. I
will only say. "I Thank God for lending me Ma for this time, and, for
everything she has taught me. Thanks for being so kind, at this
difficult time, and the wonderful way that you called. Thanks for
allowing this wonderful lady so much time on earth, to do so many great
things.
I've been touched by an Angel, for that I am sure. Ma, is certainly one
of Heaven's best picks, shared a miracle, in room 556
++++ I am deeply saddened to share the obituary of my beloved
Mother-in-Law.
---- Margaret M. Demester, age 98 of Grafton, ND passed away on
Thursday, September 20, 2007 at the Palliative Care Unit of MeritCare
Hospital in Fargo. Margaret M. Dietrich was born September 7, 1909 in
McArthur, ND the daughter of the late John and Margaret (Deck) Dietrich.
She grew up and attended school there. Margaret was united in marriage
to Raymond Demester on April 10, 1929 in McArthur, ND. The couple lived
in Joliette, ND for a time then moved to Bowesmont, ND in 1940. They
owned and operated the cafe in Bowesmont until 1942 when they moved to
Grafton. In the 1960's Margaret starting working in the housekeeping
department at the Grafton Developmental Center, retiring from there
after several years. Raymond passed away on November 8, 1997.
Margaret was a member of the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and
Altar Society.
She is survived by her children: Elaine Harrah, John Dean Demester,
Shirley (Larry) Durand, Patricia (Gary) Moe, all of Grafton, ND;
Kenneth (Vesta) Demester, Evanston, WY; 23 grandchildren; 54 great
grandchildren; 14 great great grandchildren, sisters: Florence Nelson;
Fergus Falls, MN; Esther (Alfred) Latozke, Cavalier, ND; brother: Chris
(Doreen) Dietrich, Pavillion, WY. She was preceded in death by her
parents, husband, son Charles, daughter Elsie, daughter-in-law Emilie
and sons-in-law: Clem and Robert.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, September 24, 2007 at 10:30
A.M. at the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Visitation will be
Sunday from 5-7 PM with a prayer service at 7:00 PM at the Tollefson
Funeral Home of Grafton. Friends may also call at the church on Monday
for one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at St. John's
Catholic Cemetery.
The Tollefson Funeral Home of Grafton is in charge of the arrangements.
P.S. If you would like, you can sign Ma's guest book at
tollefsonfuneralhome,com


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