In todays world: "How are you?" is a Greeting, not a Question.
---------------------
The current temperature is 48 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 81/56
Normal H/L temp for this date is 76/50
The forecast for the rest of the summer calls for normal to above
normal fishing weather. The Farmers Almanac says fishing will be
fantastic,... and, catching might be okay also/too.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
----------------------
===== -- - CORRECTION - -- =====
Ryan Hills, Ryan Hills, Ryan Hills
Almost everything in yesterdays Gazette was accurate. Everything except
the name I gave my granddaughters friend and my fishing partner.
Unfortunately, I realized my unconscionable error less than a minute
after sending the Gazette out.
Actually my daughter Wendy was the first to "remind" me of my
ignorance, then Denise, fallowed by several more better informed
individuals who all sent notes of enlightenment.
Ryan certainly is everything I said Brian was, and more. I hope Ryan
can overlook my inequities and give me another chance. A am truly sorry
for making such a silly mistake Ryan and extend my sincere apologies.
------------------------
Even before I started putting yesterdays Gazette together, I had a
funny feeling something would happen. Calling Ryan by another name was
only part of it.
I "to" was reminded, by a close friend, that I often use to instead of
too, and sometimes I use too instead of to. I could tell as soon as Miss
Carlson and Miss Lykken's names were mentioned, I was heading for
trouble. I gotta think I was trying real hard to read between the lines
of Hulda's ruler when she was going over the proper use of the three
forms of two's.
I find it easier to remember the two with the "W" in it represents the
number 2 only because Hulda whacked me tWice with her ruler, a Whacking
with the ruler reminds me of the tWo lumps on the back of my head.
Anyway,.. at this juncture in my life I am pleased to be able to
properly operate a zipper and I can only hope the members of the Gazette
family tree will place the right number of 0's in the proper places in
my babble.
-------------------------
I'm not sure what happened to the lawn around Farm Credit Services.
From the street it looks like it could use a good old fashion
rejuvenation. On the other hand, maybe someone thought it would be a
good idea to have a real old fashion "roundup" (pardon the pun) on the
Farm..... Credit property.
---------------------------
Is it possible democrats have always known about global warming, and,
that they just waited til republicans were in office before they
"remembered" how serious it is?
-----------------------
I am pleased to share the following note from Darcie. She wrote: >>>
Hi Gary -
Last year about this time when we were home for Summerfest I
stumbled upon your gazette and have enjoyed reading it ever since. It
takes me awhile to catch up sometimes as it's not always posted online
as quickly as you write. I'm hoping you would add me to your growing
list of subscribers.
I grew up in Grafton under the watchful eye of my grandparents Joe and
Gladys Komanetz -I don't get back to Grafton very much anymore since
my family is no longer there but I still recognize quite afew of the
names going through your gazette. Actually, I used to babysit your
grandchildren (Dave and Kelly's kids) and cannot believe I was reading
correctly that Nick Moe is a graduate!
Yikes...I think he was only a few months old when I babysat him!
Anyway -
What a great service you provide your readers - near and far!! It's
nice to be able to keep up with the goings on at "home."
Keep up the great gazette!!
Darcie (Komanetz) Gust <<< Thanks a million Darcie. I will be pleased
to add you to "our" Gazette family tree. I might also add that I had the
unique pleasure of working with your grandfather in the laboratory at
the Drayton Factory of American Crystal Sugar Company. I remember the
very first time I met Joe, it was the fall of 1965. He asked me how much
time I had spent in a laboratory. Unfortunately, I thought Joe said
Lavatory so I told him it depended on how much I ate. He laughed, and
said, "no, I mean Laboratory." I then told Joe that the only thing I
knew about the lab, was that Gary Fischer was in charge of it and I was
going to be a special benchman.
Joe assured me, in no uncertain terms Darcie, that if I needed any help
at all he would provide it. And, that he did,.... often and
professionally. Joe certainly was one of the individuals instrumental in
my career at American Crystal. I shall never forget the advantages he
afforded me.
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
"I may not always like what you tell me. I will, however, always
appreciate it."
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Grafton, ND
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Monday, June 04, 2007
June 4, 2007 - Monday - Grafton, ND
The guy who framed the first dollar he made 30 years ago in a 10-cent
frame finds today the frame is worth a dollar and the dollar is worth 10
cents.
----------------------
The current temperature is 68 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 81/56
Normal H/L temp for this date is 76/50
The high on this date in 1991 was 96°
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
The trip to Arnesen's Rocky Point Resort Tuesday afternoon was
relatively uneventful. A quick "rest" stop at the Rivers Edge fishing
tackle store for Sami and me, another at Doug's in Warroad for a couple
dozen donut holes and we were at Arnesen's in plenty of time to unload
our supply of staples. We unloaded the golf cart and parked the Walleye
combine alongside the motorhome so we could clean it a bit before the
start of "walleye harvest" Wednesday. We ate at the lodge, and, as
usual, the food was fantastic.
Wednesday fishing, and catching, was fantastic. Some walleye's were to
big, a few were to small and the rest made up our limit. Again Wednesday
night we took advantage of the lodge kitchen, and, as always the steaks
and service was better ever.
Thursday was much like Wednesday except fishing was even better. Friday
was spent on land "working", then Saturday our son-in-law Tom, Jenni,
(Tom's daughter) & (my grand daughter) along with Jenni's friend Brian
Hills and my grandson Dylin took the walleye combine down south and
harvested a cooler full of nice fish.
I might add it appears as though it wasn't the first ever fishing trip
for Brian Hills. He hooked the first lunker of the day, before some of
us even had a line in the water. Then again, before we could even decide
how big it would be by the time he got home, he hauled in another really
good eater. I'm thinking maybe Brian should be fishing with folks like
Hans Halvorson instead of a fat old Norwegian in a tired out Thompson
walleye combine.
Anyway, Sunday we did go out for a while and I hooked on to a Northern,
almost, as long as my arm. Then, of course, not to be outdone, the young
Hills lad had to do the same thing just a few minutes later.
All in all, it was a fantastic time, with fabulous people, at Arnesen's
Rocky Point Resort a wonderful place to have it all come together.
--------------------
Ever wonder what you might have been if you had been the "second"
fastest sperm?
--------------------
Friday Diane Roufs Celebrated the anniversary of her first spanking.
Friday Vesta Demester added one more candle to her cake and today, Larry
Durand will be melting the business end of a boxfull of candles too. The
girls dates, as always, will remain a secret. However, Larry will have
to come up with 66 good reasons to keep his quite.
---------------------
Loren's note gave Alice reason to share the following. >>>
Subject: Hazel & Cora
Hi Gary...I can only assume that the LL was Loren Lundberg. It
would be interesting to do a survey about the overall effect on
deportment, not to mention spelling, grammar and correct punctuation
Miss Cora Lykken and Mrs. Hazel Sutterlin produced from their tenure at
GHS. I still hold them in awe because they didn't care if their
teaching methods were "dated"...they worked. I remember also that my
obstreperous cousin was making "obnoxious armpit noises" in the back of
Miss Lykken's class one afternoon. He didn't see her coming, but she
came up behind him and about knocked him into the middle of next
week. We used to laugh about that incident, but believe me he
respected her after that. I still study the faces on news magazines
and try to memorize their names because you never knew when Miss
Sutterlin would point to one of the pictures above her blackboard and
insist that you had to know who were the important leaders in your
country. Miss Hulda Carlson had the same kind of impact in her fourth
grade classes at Chase. Nobody sassed Miss Carlson! Please tell me
which weekend in June is Summerfest...the Record hasn't done any
publicity that I can tell. (Of course, my newspaper is still going to
California before it gets re-routed back to MN so it may be coming in
the next issues.) Love the Gazette...good luck with your fishing!
Where we are it's so windy the fish are hiding on the bottom of the
lake. AH
<<<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Alice. I am living proof
that "uttering" another word for excrement in Hulda's class resulted in
a mouth full of handsoap combined with a serious shake of the shoulders.
As a matter of fact, I think of that specific incident every time I put
the quote, "Profanity makes ignorance audible" in the Gazette.
-----------------------
Ever wonder why is it called tourist season if we can't shoot at them?
-----------------------
Hi Gary,
Can you tell me when the Grafton School reunions are taking place this
year? I'm up in Canada and planning a trip home and would like to see
some old friends. Thanks. Mary Small <<<
I've received numerous requests for the dates of this years Summerfest
celebration. This year is also Graftons 125 year anniversary. The
celebration dates are posted as June 21, 22, 23. However, please don't
be afraid to come early and stay late.
If it's not raining cats and dogs, and the good Lord is willing. I plan
to start out this years celebration Thursday night on a picnic table in
the parking lot behind Polly's and the Extra End listening to the music.
If, I might add, I can find one.
==================================
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.
Grafton, ND
frame finds today the frame is worth a dollar and the dollar is worth 10
cents.
----------------------
The current temperature is 68 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 81/56
Normal H/L temp for this date is 76/50
The high on this date in 1991 was 96°
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
The trip to Arnesen's Rocky Point Resort Tuesday afternoon was
relatively uneventful. A quick "rest" stop at the Rivers Edge fishing
tackle store for Sami and me, another at Doug's in Warroad for a couple
dozen donut holes and we were at Arnesen's in plenty of time to unload
our supply of staples. We unloaded the golf cart and parked the Walleye
combine alongside the motorhome so we could clean it a bit before the
start of "walleye harvest" Wednesday. We ate at the lodge, and, as
usual, the food was fantastic.
Wednesday fishing, and catching, was fantastic. Some walleye's were to
big, a few were to small and the rest made up our limit. Again Wednesday
night we took advantage of the lodge kitchen, and, as always the steaks
and service was better ever.
Thursday was much like Wednesday except fishing was even better. Friday
was spent on land "working", then Saturday our son-in-law Tom, Jenni,
(Tom's daughter) & (my grand daughter) along with Jenni's friend Brian
Hills and my grandson Dylin took the walleye combine down south and
harvested a cooler full of nice fish.
I might add it appears as though it wasn't the first ever fishing trip
for Brian Hills. He hooked the first lunker of the day, before some of
us even had a line in the water. Then again, before we could even decide
how big it would be by the time he got home, he hauled in another really
good eater. I'm thinking maybe Brian should be fishing with folks like
Hans Halvorson instead of a fat old Norwegian in a tired out Thompson
walleye combine.
Anyway, Sunday we did go out for a while and I hooked on to a Northern,
almost, as long as my arm. Then, of course, not to be outdone, the young
Hills lad had to do the same thing just a few minutes later.
All in all, it was a fantastic time, with fabulous people, at Arnesen's
Rocky Point Resort a wonderful place to have it all come together.
--------------------
Ever wonder what you might have been if you had been the "second"
fastest sperm?
--------------------
Friday Diane Roufs Celebrated the anniversary of her first spanking.
Friday Vesta Demester added one more candle to her cake and today, Larry
Durand will be melting the business end of a boxfull of candles too. The
girls dates, as always, will remain a secret. However, Larry will have
to come up with 66 good reasons to keep his quite.
---------------------
Loren's note gave Alice reason to share the following. >>>
Subject: Hazel & Cora
Hi Gary...I can only assume that the LL was Loren Lundberg. It
would be interesting to do a survey about the overall effect on
deportment, not to mention spelling, grammar and correct punctuation
Miss Cora Lykken and Mrs. Hazel Sutterlin produced from their tenure at
GHS. I still hold them in awe because they didn't care if their
teaching methods were "dated"...they worked. I remember also that my
obstreperous cousin was making "obnoxious armpit noises" in the back of
Miss Lykken's class one afternoon. He didn't see her coming, but she
came up behind him and about knocked him into the middle of next
week. We used to laugh about that incident, but believe me he
respected her after that. I still study the faces on news magazines
and try to memorize their names because you never knew when Miss
Sutterlin would point to one of the pictures above her blackboard and
insist that you had to know who were the important leaders in your
country. Miss Hulda Carlson had the same kind of impact in her fourth
grade classes at Chase. Nobody sassed Miss Carlson! Please tell me
which weekend in June is Summerfest...the Record hasn't done any
publicity that I can tell. (Of course, my newspaper is still going to
California before it gets re-routed back to MN so it may be coming in
the next issues.) Love the Gazette...good luck with your fishing!
Where we are it's so windy the fish are hiding on the bottom of the
lake. AH
<<<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Alice. I am living proof
that "uttering" another word for excrement in Hulda's class resulted in
a mouth full of handsoap combined with a serious shake of the shoulders.
As a matter of fact, I think of that specific incident every time I put
the quote, "Profanity makes ignorance audible" in the Gazette.
-----------------------
Ever wonder why is it called tourist season if we can't shoot at them?
-----------------------
Hi Gary,
Can you tell me when the Grafton School reunions are taking place this
year? I'm up in Canada and planning a trip home and would like to see
some old friends. Thanks. Mary Small <<<
I've received numerous requests for the dates of this years Summerfest
celebration. This year is also Graftons 125 year anniversary. The
celebration dates are posted as June 21, 22, 23. However, please don't
be afraid to come early and stay late.
If it's not raining cats and dogs, and the good Lord is willing. I plan
to start out this years celebration Thursday night on a picnic table in
the parking lot behind Polly's and the Extra End listening to the music.
If, I might add, I can find one.
==================================
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.
Grafton, ND
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
May 29, 2007 - Tuesday - Grafton, ND
Bad politicians are elected by good citizens who do not vote.
------------------------
The current temperature is degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 85/47
Normal H/L temp for this date is 74/4
It was 96 degrees on this date in 1939.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
Contractors have removed the blacktop from McHugh Avenue. Tuesday
morning they started removing the curb and gutter.
------------------------
I received a note from Rick, a good friend and fellow Rocky Point
Resort fisherman. It included a few quote I would like to share. The
first one; >>>> "Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if
they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines
don't have thatproblem." -- Ronald Reagan**
Another quote I would like to share ......
"If we ever forget that we're One Nation Under God,
then we will be a
nation gone under."
also by.. Ronald Reagan**
One last thought for the day:
In case we find ourselves starting to believe all the
anti-Americansentiment and negativity, we should remember England's
Prime MinisterTony Blair's words during a recent interview. When
asked by one of hisParliament members why he believes so much in
America, he said:
"A simple way to take measure of a country is to look
at how many want
in....... And how many want out."
<<< I guess that, "almost", says it all.
-------------------------
I suspect Memorial Day was the inspiration for Bert to share the
following.
Bert wrote: >>> Subject: The worldwide fight against terrorists.
Every day my gut turns over for those guys willing to give up their
lives in the mid-east and around the worldfor the safety of humanity
and the American way of living. There is nothing I would like more than
to have them all home again buttheir necessaryjob is still far
from done.To keep my own mind straight, knowing the politics of
today,I often think of a placards I have on my wallwhere I see it
every day.
WAR IS AN UGLY THING, BUT NOT THE UGLIEST, THE DECAYED AND DEGRADED
STATE OF MORAL AND PATRIOTIC FEELING WHICH THINKS NOTHING IS WORTH
FIGHTING FOR IS FAR WORSE. A MAN WHO HAS NOTHING FOR WHICH HE IS
WILLING TO FIGHT FOR; NOTHING HE CARES FOR MORE THAN HIS OWN PERSONAL
SAFETY: IS A MISERABLE CREATURE WHO HAS NO CHANCE OF EVER BEING FREE,
UNLESS MADEAND KEPT SO BY THE EXCURSIONS OF BETTER MEN THAN
HIMSELF.(John Stuart Mills.)
To me Memorial day is not just another holiday, it is one of sadness
yeta day of hope. There is no better honor than to be known as an
American G.I.
Bert A. Overland. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Bert.
------------------------
Wally's trek down the trenches (pardon the pun) in yesterdays Gazette,
gave Loren Lundberg reason to share the following. >>> Gary:
I'm sure that Wally's story has the beginnings of a
"No, I CAN'T believe that story!" because of the 'possibility' of a
private citizen digging and producing a private linkup with a municipal
sewer system!
It might be a fascinating part of "small town
itus" to determine the "when" of how our city fathers would no longer
accept this - (maybe it is the same time that "big brother" government
decided "Let me help.") and either doubled or tripled what it would
cost?
I love the Gazette - in spite of the "tourism
terror" syndrome that any mention of the "skeeter" menace might trigger.
Makes me think about Grafton and "graftonites"; and, pleasantly so, I
might add. Even caused me to ring up your big brother last night......
And along that line, anyone who tells you that
e-mails will replace - or are superior to - voice contact, is kidding no
one but themselves. Except that "voice" contact MAY have a more negative
context when it comes off as such.
Given that, Gazette subscribers are put on notice that I
will be in the environs of Grafton on the Wednesday of "Reunion" Week -
easy to spot, I'll be the one with the forty year old telephone book
saying "Okay, your Mom and Dad were 'who'?". (Thank God that I caught
the improper use of quotation marks in the PREVIOUS version of that
sentence - triggered by the warning signs of attack fighter planes at
both the Cora and Hazel airports - okay, so MAYBE Hazel's plane MIGHT
have been a bomber.... that weekend might STILL be the best memory test
you will ever get...). Best regards,
LL <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Loren. Even though My
Webster only has 1250 pages I would have bet it would have the word
"ITUS" in it somewhere. Unfortunately it doesn't, so,... I'm going with
the idea that "small town itus" is a good thing. Right?
------------------------
The next several editions of the Gazette will be written with invisible
ink. Of course my "in" basket will remain fully operational should
anyone decide to use it. I would be most appreciative.
If the good Lords willing, and my walleye combine still floats, I hope
to return with a real live fish story.
==================================
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.
Grafton, ND
------------------------
The current temperature is degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 85/47
Normal H/L temp for this date is 74/4
It was 96 degrees on this date in 1939.
==============================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==============================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
Contractors have removed the blacktop from McHugh Avenue. Tuesday
morning they started removing the curb and gutter.
------------------------
I received a note from Rick, a good friend and fellow Rocky Point
Resort fisherman. It included a few quote I would like to share. The
first one; >>>> "Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if
they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines
don't have thatproblem." -- Ronald Reagan**
Another quote I would like to share ......
"If we ever forget that we're One Nation Under God,
then we will be a
nation gone under."
also by.. Ronald Reagan**
One last thought for the day:
In case we find ourselves starting to believe all the
anti-Americansentiment and negativity, we should remember England's
Prime MinisterTony Blair's words during a recent interview. When
asked by one of hisParliament members why he believes so much in
America, he said:
"A simple way to take measure of a country is to look
at how many want
in....... And how many want out."
<<< I guess that, "almost", says it all.
-------------------------
I suspect Memorial Day was the inspiration for Bert to share the
following.
Bert wrote: >>> Subject: The worldwide fight against terrorists.
Every day my gut turns over for those guys willing to give up their
lives in the mid-east and around the worldfor the safety of humanity
and the American way of living. There is nothing I would like more than
to have them all home again buttheir necessaryjob is still far
from done.To keep my own mind straight, knowing the politics of
today,I often think of a placards I have on my wallwhere I see it
every day.
WAR IS AN UGLY THING, BUT NOT THE UGLIEST, THE DECAYED AND DEGRADED
STATE OF MORAL AND PATRIOTIC FEELING WHICH THINKS NOTHING IS WORTH
FIGHTING FOR IS FAR WORSE. A MAN WHO HAS NOTHING FOR WHICH HE IS
WILLING TO FIGHT FOR; NOTHING HE CARES FOR MORE THAN HIS OWN PERSONAL
SAFETY: IS A MISERABLE CREATURE WHO HAS NO CHANCE OF EVER BEING FREE,
UNLESS MADEAND KEPT SO BY THE EXCURSIONS OF BETTER MEN THAN
HIMSELF.(John Stuart Mills.)
To me Memorial day is not just another holiday, it is one of sadness
yeta day of hope. There is no better honor than to be known as an
American G.I.
Bert A. Overland. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Bert.
------------------------
Wally's trek down the trenches (pardon the pun) in yesterdays Gazette,
gave Loren Lundberg reason to share the following. >>> Gary:
I'm sure that Wally's story has the beginnings of a
"No, I CAN'T believe that story!" because of the 'possibility' of a
private citizen digging and producing a private linkup with a municipal
sewer system!
It might be a fascinating part of "small town
itus" to determine the "when" of how our city fathers would no longer
accept this - (maybe it is the same time that "big brother" government
decided "Let me help.") and either doubled or tripled what it would
cost?
I love the Gazette - in spite of the "tourism
terror" syndrome that any mention of the "skeeter" menace might trigger.
Makes me think about Grafton and "graftonites"; and, pleasantly so, I
might add. Even caused me to ring up your big brother last night......
And along that line, anyone who tells you that
e-mails will replace - or are superior to - voice contact, is kidding no
one but themselves. Except that "voice" contact MAY have a more negative
context when it comes off as such.
Given that, Gazette subscribers are put on notice that I
will be in the environs of Grafton on the Wednesday of "Reunion" Week -
easy to spot, I'll be the one with the forty year old telephone book
saying "Okay, your Mom and Dad were 'who'?". (Thank God that I caught
the improper use of quotation marks in the PREVIOUS version of that
sentence - triggered by the warning signs of attack fighter planes at
both the Cora and Hazel airports - okay, so MAYBE Hazel's plane MIGHT
have been a bomber.... that weekend might STILL be the best memory test
you will ever get...). Best regards,
LL <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Loren. Even though My
Webster only has 1250 pages I would have bet it would have the word
"ITUS" in it somewhere. Unfortunately it doesn't, so,... I'm going with
the idea that "small town itus" is a good thing. Right?
------------------------
The next several editions of the Gazette will be written with invisible
ink. Of course my "in" basket will remain fully operational should
anyone decide to use it. I would be most appreciative.
If the good Lords willing, and my walleye combine still floats, I hope
to return with a real live fish story.
==============================
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.
Grafton, ND
Monday, May 28, 2007
May 28, 2007 - Monday (Memorial Day) - Grafton, ND
With reasonable care, the human body will last a lifetime.
----------------------
The current temperature is 74 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 65/49
Normal H/L temp for this date is 74/48 The 'official'
Gazette Water Meter has recorded 2.94 inches of moisture during the most
recent rain event.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
With all the excess moisture lately, it won't be long and
we'll be dragging out the Skeeter Meter.
------------------------
I learned a long time ago that "things" aren't always what they
first appear to be. Such was the case this morning when I drove up to
Granny's,... and discovered they were closed. Anyway, as I looked around
to see if anyone else had made the same mistake. I noticed a large
motorhome parked in the AmericInn Motel parking lot. It was the same
motorhome that had been parked in the Leistikow Park Camp Ground just a
day or so earlier. Then it struck me. WOW, I thought, our
beautiful Leistikow Park Campground must be so full that this big diesel
rig couldn't park there anymore, so, it parked in the Motel parking lot
instead. I was thankful the folks that are staying in that big rig
didn't decide to leave town just because our beautiful campground is
full. And, I thought, maybe, for a few bucks the folks at AmericInn
would even let them take a dip in their pool.
After I was sure that Granny's wasn't going to be open anytime
soon. I decided to take a spin down the Developmental Center (Grafton
States School) road and then take 5th street past the Leistikow Park and
Campground.
As I approached the campground, the term "dog bite my unit" came
to mind. The only campers in the campground was the one owned by the
Park and, the one owned by the couple in charge of the campground.
Why, I wondered, would a beautiful big diesel powered motorhome
with electric steps and pleated curtains on the windows, move from our
magnificent, quiet, little campground with electricity, water and sewer?
Especially when the lot at AmericInn can't offer any of those wonderful
camping amenities.
I'll be darned if I know,..... however, I'd be willing to bet
someone does. So,... just in case that person doesn't see this the first
time. I may have to continue asking the question til they do.
-------------------------
I received the following quote from Keith Saville. "Lord, keep
Your arm around my shoulder and Your hand over my mouth." Maybe I should
have read it before I wrote the piece about the campground. Anyway, I
thank the Saville's a million for caring and sharing.
-------------------------
Kathee Carlson's note about street work gave Wally reason to share
the following. >>> Hi Gary
Its bed time but I must answer that little lady who lived at 303
kittson. Her story about the dirt streets on Kittson kind of gives her
age away, so be it. You see I lived at 323 Kittson. We were neighbors
and they were super neighbors too.
Now she mentions the dirt streets on Kittson. Yes they were dirt on
sunny days and a mess on rainy days.
Ione and I moved back to Grafton from Mandan in 1952. We
lived at 40 North Wakeman. No one had sewer or water there. (on
Wakeman)My brothers and I decided to put sewer and water in my
mothers home at 323 Kittson. We didn't have the cash so we decided to
dig it by hand. We all worked, so it had to be done in the evenings. We
started at 6 pm and dug til 2 a m. The going was easy by the house but
got harder at the street. The sewer was 14 feet deep. We found it and
decided to hook it up the next day. Now,.... that was on the west side
of the street. We got Charlie Sieben to tell us how to hook it up.
ThenCharlie gave me the worst news I have ever had, baring any
thing else. The news was that the sewer was on the 'east' side of the
street. The one on the west side was a old abandoned sewer line. We
closed of the street and started to dig. At about 2:30 A M we found the
pipe and decided we would get some sleep and start the next evening.
The next bad news was that we were putting the water pipe in the
same trench as the sewer line. We were told we could not do that, as the
ordinance had changed a week or so before that date. NO EXCEPTIONS!!! We
dug another hole 8 feet away and got the water. Closing the trench was a
pieceof cake compared to digging it through that hard road.
Getting rid of the old "out side john" was the happiest
day of my young life. I really can't remember if Kathee brought us lemon
aid while we were on the job. If she did and I did not say "thank you
KATHEE". I am saying it now. Thanks Kathee you were a great
neighbor Wally <<< Thanks a million for caring and
sharing Wally. I wonder if, "the folks most appreciative of getting rid
of the "old outhouses" were those folks fullest of the reason to use
them in the first place"?
-----------------------
More than once the question, "when is Lloyd coming up to the lake?" was
brought up during coffee at the Rock Harbor Lodge. I can finally answer
it with a reasonable amount of certainty.
Lloyd wrote: >>>
I am on my way to the Lake, presently at Nancy's and will leave her
Tuesday and expect to arrive in Rochester area by late Wednesday
afternoon, then likely on to the Lake by Thursday or Friday. Weather at
the Lake looks rainy all week but lots of work to do to open the Cabin.
Lloyd W. Hanson <<< Thanks for caring and sharing Lloyd. The next
round of coffee is on you.
-------------------------
From time to time I get requests from folks to be included in the
Gazette family and they prefer not having their names mentioned. I don't
have a problem with that at all. Also, every once in a while someone
will wonder why, when I welcome someone, or if I mention someone, they
can't find that persons name in the list of names they receive.
That too, has a fairly simple explanation. I have divided the list into
numerous groups, so you are only seeing a few of the entire list.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Speaking of new Gazette family members. I received the following note
from Aurel just today. He wrote >>>
I am Aurel Littlejohn Jacobson, a '49 graduate of Grafton. The
other day I had a long conversation with Roseann Bliss here in the twin
cities. She told meabout the great email newsletteryou write. I
would like to be on the listto receive it, if that is possible.
I plan to visit Grafton for the 125th reunion this June. I
haven't been back for five years and I am really looking forward to
meeting old classmates.
Aurel Jacobson <<< Thanks a million Aurel. I would be pleased to
include you in the Gazette family, and, I hope you will find cause, from
time to time, to share a part of your world with us.
Rumor has it that this years Summerfest Celebration is going to be a
real "Wing Ding." Or so it seems to me.
==================================
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.
Grafton, ND
----------------------
The current temperature is 74 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 65/49
Normal H/L temp for this date is 74/48 The 'official'
Gazette Water Meter has recorded 2.94 inches of moisture during the most
recent rain event.
==============================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==============================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
With all the excess moisture lately, it won't be long and
we'll be dragging out the Skeeter Meter.
------------------------
I learned a long time ago that "things" aren't always what they
first appear to be. Such was the case this morning when I drove up to
Granny's,... and discovered they were closed. Anyway, as I looked around
to see if anyone else had made the same mistake. I noticed a large
motorhome parked in the AmericInn Motel parking lot. It was the same
motorhome that had been parked in the Leistikow Park Camp Ground just a
day or so earlier. Then it struck me. WOW, I thought, our
beautiful Leistikow Park Campground must be so full that this big diesel
rig couldn't park there anymore, so, it parked in the Motel parking lot
instead. I was thankful the folks that are staying in that big rig
didn't decide to leave town just because our beautiful campground is
full. And, I thought, maybe, for a few bucks the folks at AmericInn
would even let them take a dip in their pool.
After I was sure that Granny's wasn't going to be open anytime
soon. I decided to take a spin down the Developmental Center (Grafton
States School) road and then take 5th street past the Leistikow Park and
Campground.
As I approached the campground, the term "dog bite my unit" came
to mind. The only campers in the campground was the one owned by the
Park and, the one owned by the couple in charge of the campground.
Why, I wondered, would a beautiful big diesel powered motorhome
with electric steps and pleated curtains on the windows, move from our
magnificent, quiet, little campground with electricity, water and sewer?
Especially when the lot at AmericInn can't offer any of those wonderful
camping amenities.
I'll be darned if I know,..... however, I'd be willing to bet
someone does. So,... just in case that person doesn't see this the first
time. I may have to continue asking the question til they do.
-------------------------
I received the following quote from Keith Saville. "Lord, keep
Your arm around my shoulder and Your hand over my mouth." Maybe I should
have read it before I wrote the piece about the campground. Anyway, I
thank the Saville's a million for caring and sharing.
-------------------------
Kathee Carlson's note about street work gave Wally reason to share
the following. >>> Hi Gary
Its bed time but I must answer that little lady who lived at 303
kittson. Her story about the dirt streets on Kittson kind of gives her
age away, so be it. You see I lived at 323 Kittson. We were neighbors
and they were super neighbors too.
Now she mentions the dirt streets on Kittson. Yes they were dirt on
sunny days and a mess on rainy days.
Ione and I moved back to Grafton from Mandan in 1952. We
lived at 40 North Wakeman. No one had sewer or water there. (on
Wakeman)My brothers and I decided to put sewer and water in my
mothers home at 323 Kittson. We didn't have the cash so we decided to
dig it by hand. We all worked, so it had to be done in the evenings. We
started at 6 pm and dug til 2 a m. The going was easy by the house but
got harder at the street. The sewer was 14 feet deep. We found it and
decided to hook it up the next day. Now,.... that was on the west side
of the street. We got Charlie Sieben to tell us how to hook it up.
ThenCharlie gave me the worst news I have ever had, baring any
thing else. The news was that the sewer was on the 'east' side of the
street. The one on the west side was a old abandoned sewer line. We
closed of the street and started to dig. At about 2:30 A M we found the
pipe and decided we would get some sleep and start the next evening.
The next bad news was that we were putting the water pipe in the
same trench as the sewer line. We were told we could not do that, as the
ordinance had changed a week or so before that date. NO EXCEPTIONS!!! We
dug another hole 8 feet away and got the water. Closing the trench was a
pieceof cake compared to digging it through that hard road.
Getting rid of the old "out side john" was the happiest
day of my young life. I really can't remember if Kathee brought us lemon
aid while we were on the job. If she did and I did not say "thank you
KATHEE". I am saying it now. Thanks Kathee you were a great
neighbor Wally <<< Thanks a million for caring and
sharing Wally. I wonder if, "the folks most appreciative of getting rid
of the "old outhouses" were those folks fullest of the reason to use
them in the first place"?
-----------------------
More than once the question, "when is Lloyd coming up to the lake?" was
brought up during coffee at the Rock Harbor Lodge. I can finally answer
it with a reasonable amount of certainty.
Lloyd wrote: >>>
I am on my way to the Lake, presently at Nancy's and will leave her
Tuesday and expect to arrive in Rochester area by late Wednesday
afternoon, then likely on to the Lake by Thursday or Friday. Weather at
the Lake looks rainy all week but lots of work to do to open the Cabin.
Lloyd W. Hanson <<< Thanks for caring and sharing Lloyd. The next
round of coffee is on you.
-------------------------
From time to time I get requests from folks to be included in the
Gazette family and they prefer not having their names mentioned. I don't
have a problem with that at all. Also, every once in a while someone
will wonder why, when I welcome someone, or if I mention someone, they
can't find that persons name in the list of names they receive.
That too, has a fairly simple explanation. I have divided the list into
numerous groups, so you are only seeing a few of the entire list.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Speaking of new Gazette family members. I received the following note
from Aurel just today. He wrote >>>
I am Aurel Littlejohn Jacobson, a '49 graduate of Grafton. The
other day I had a long conversation with Roseann Bliss here in the twin
cities. She told meabout the great email newsletteryou write. I
would like to be on the listto receive it, if that is possible.
I plan to visit Grafton for the 125th reunion this June. I
haven't been back for five years and I am really looking forward to
meeting old classmates.
Aurel Jacobson <<< Thanks a million Aurel. I would be pleased to
include you in the Gazette family, and, I hope you will find cause, from
time to time, to share a part of your world with us.
Rumor has it that this years Summerfest Celebration is going to be a
real "Wing Ding." Or so it seems to me.
==============================
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.
Grafton, ND
Friday, May 25, 2007
May 25, 2007 - Friday - Grafton, ND
I suppose it was inevitable. Modern day fashion designers
are now designing women's clothes that display cleavage,.... on both
ends. Now you can see them, coming and going.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 45 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 49/30
Normal H/L temp for this date is 74/47
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,..mostly stuff.
-----------------------
With rainfall amounts ranging from a millimeter in some areas, to
a parking meter in others. If you have a sump pump, and a basement, it
might not be a bad idea to check them both,... if you haven't already.
--------------
Rumor has it a scantly clad man with a moustache and a pair of
parrots on his shoulder, was seen in Simonson Lumber Company this
morning getting bids on enough lumber to build a pontoon,..... 40 cubits
long. I don't know if Rick knew him personally or not. However, I
understand when he give him the bid, Rick called him Noah then offered
to give him a cat and a pair of his neighbors dogs.
-----------------------
It's the time of the year when our refrigerator door gets covered
with pictures of handsome young men and beautiful young ladies.
The end of the spring planting season always marks the
beginning of yet another very important season. This is High School
Graduation season, and, it's in full swing throughout the area this
weekend.
Bev Demers shared the following with us. >>> Hi Gary, I'd like to
congratulate two more of your grandchildren on their
upcoming high school graduation. I don't know Nick Moe that well but I
know Jenny Hartje and you and Pat have every reason in the world to be
proud grandparents. Jennifer is a wonderful young lady and I wish her
well.
"Congratulations to all the graduates of the Class of 2007." Bev
<<< Thanks a million for your kind words and well wishes Bev. Both of
our daughters, Kelly and Wendy, will be watching their youngest walk
across the stage with square caps on. I'm not certain, but I think at
least some of the moisture in the area is coming from our daughters tear
ducks. One thing is for certain however, and that is that Pat will be
wetting a fair share of kleenex during the graduation ceremonies Sunday
afternoon.
Jennifer Hartje and Nicholas Moe will be our 6th and 7th
grandchild to graduate from Grafton High School. That means we only have
6 more to go.
CONGRATULATIONS Jennifer and Nick. You have made your Gramma Patti
and Grandpa Gary very proud.
Pat and I would like to extend a heartfelt
congratulations to the entire 2007 graduating class in Grafton and
throughout the country.
-------------------------
I'm guessing the folks along McHugh Avenue are wondering how
long the recent rains will delay their street project. The answer of
course is "I'll be darned if I know." The mention of the project gave
Kathee Carlson reason to share the following. >>>
The news that McHugh Avenue is being repaved brought
back memories of when the north end of town went from dirt roads to
black top. That would have been sometime before 1963 because that was
the year we moved from 303 Kittson Ave to 1407 Manvel due to the
addition of my brother Bryan to our family. I remember trying to cross
Kittson when the work was being done without getting dirty the white
tennis shoes that Grandpa Carlson had fitted on me at Reylecks. We
called McHugh, Muddy McHugh in its days before black top.
Our house on Kittson started out with an open porch which
was closed in well before I lived there. My dad said that the reason it
was closed in was that when automobiles replaced horses as the primary
mode of transportation, the automobiles kicked up too much dust to allow
sitting on the open porch to be an enjoyable experience.
I hope that no one ruins there Nikes in the process of
laying the new asphalt.
Kathee Carlson <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Kathee.
-------------------------
With the benefit of hindsight (not to be confused with the ability
to see thru ones behind) I probably should have sent out the last notes
shared by Bert Overland and Armando Serrano. The requests for those two
notes, and I might add, the comments received on the subject, has been
nothing short of unbelievable.
--------------------------
I had the chance to spend a few hours at Arnesen's Rocky Point
Resort Friday. Every time I go there I am fascinated by the amount of
work the Arnesen's are doing throughout the entire resort complex. To
those of you that haven't been there for awhile, you will be amazed at
the changes. To those of you that haven't had the chance to get there at
all,...... yet. I'm sure you will be pleased with what you see when you
do.
Unfortunately I haven't had a chance to get my "walleye combine"
in the water yet but I'm hoping to get "r" done real soon. I plan to
start out this year with brand new fishing line and two fancy new Wa-Pa
(Stan & Emily Pasche) fish magnets. Stan tells me his spinners are
specifically twisted & tied to catch walleye's right in the corner of
their mouth. Ya right!
Some may remember Stan when he coached hockey in Grafton. You
might remember too, Stan was never afraid to open his mouth when he felt
the urge to. Evidently, he has mastered that ability and come up with a
way of instilling it in his Wa-Pa fishing lures.
According to Stan, who says, "drop one of these little babies in
front of a walleye, and they can't possibly keep their mouth shut."
-----------------------
Anyway, I gotta start getting ready for graduation. But before I
do, I would like to welcome Steve & Lunette Kliniske, Emily Kliniske and
Stephanie Kliniske along with Jim & Norma Rystedt to the Gazette family
tree.
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
"I may not always like what you tell me. I will, however, always
appreciate it."
"It isn't hearing something you don't like that hurts you.
More often than not, it's not hearing it, that does."
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.
Grafton, ND
are now designing women's clothes that display cleavage,.... on both
ends. Now you can see them, coming and going.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 45 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 49/30
Normal H/L temp for this date is 74/47
==============================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==============================
L O C A L news & stuff,..mostly stuff.
-----------------------
With rainfall amounts ranging from a millimeter in some areas, to
a parking meter in others. If you have a sump pump, and a basement, it
might not be a bad idea to check them both,... if you haven't already.
--------------
Rumor has it a scantly clad man with a moustache and a pair of
parrots on his shoulder, was seen in Simonson Lumber Company this
morning getting bids on enough lumber to build a pontoon,..... 40 cubits
long. I don't know if Rick knew him personally or not. However, I
understand when he give him the bid, Rick called him Noah then offered
to give him a cat and a pair of his neighbors dogs.
-----------------------
It's the time of the year when our refrigerator door gets covered
with pictures of handsome young men and beautiful young ladies.
The end of the spring planting season always marks the
beginning of yet another very important season. This is High School
Graduation season, and, it's in full swing throughout the area this
weekend.
Bev Demers shared the following with us. >>> Hi Gary, I'd like to
congratulate two more of your grandchildren on their
upcoming high school graduation. I don't know Nick Moe that well but I
know Jenny Hartje and you and Pat have every reason in the world to be
proud grandparents. Jennifer is a wonderful young lady and I wish her
well.
"Congratulations to all the graduates of the Class of 2007." Bev
<<< Thanks a million for your kind words and well wishes Bev. Both of
our daughters, Kelly and Wendy, will be watching their youngest walk
across the stage with square caps on. I'm not certain, but I think at
least some of the moisture in the area is coming from our daughters tear
ducks. One thing is for certain however, and that is that Pat will be
wetting a fair share of kleenex during the graduation ceremonies Sunday
afternoon.
Jennifer Hartje and Nicholas Moe will be our 6th and 7th
grandchild to graduate from Grafton High School. That means we only have
6 more to go.
CONGRATULATIONS Jennifer and Nick. You have made your Gramma Patti
and Grandpa Gary very proud.
Pat and I would like to extend a heartfelt
congratulations to the entire 2007 graduating class in Grafton and
throughout the country.
-------------------------
I'm guessing the folks along McHugh Avenue are wondering how
long the recent rains will delay their street project. The answer of
course is "I'll be darned if I know." The mention of the project gave
Kathee Carlson reason to share the following. >>>
The news that McHugh Avenue is being repaved brought
back memories of when the north end of town went from dirt roads to
black top. That would have been sometime before 1963 because that was
the year we moved from 303 Kittson Ave to 1407 Manvel due to the
addition of my brother Bryan to our family. I remember trying to cross
Kittson when the work was being done without getting dirty the white
tennis shoes that Grandpa Carlson had fitted on me at Reylecks. We
called McHugh, Muddy McHugh in its days before black top.
Our house on Kittson started out with an open porch which
was closed in well before I lived there. My dad said that the reason it
was closed in was that when automobiles replaced horses as the primary
mode of transportation, the automobiles kicked up too much dust to allow
sitting on the open porch to be an enjoyable experience.
I hope that no one ruins there Nikes in the process of
laying the new asphalt.
Kathee Carlson <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Kathee.
-------------------------
With the benefit of hindsight (not to be confused with the ability
to see thru ones behind) I probably should have sent out the last notes
shared by Bert Overland and Armando Serrano. The requests for those two
notes, and I might add, the comments received on the subject, has been
nothing short of unbelievable.
--------------------------
I had the chance to spend a few hours at Arnesen's Rocky Point
Resort Friday. Every time I go there I am fascinated by the amount of
work the Arnesen's are doing throughout the entire resort complex. To
those of you that haven't been there for awhile, you will be amazed at
the changes. To those of you that haven't had the chance to get there at
all,...... yet. I'm sure you will be pleased with what you see when you
do.
Unfortunately I haven't had a chance to get my "walleye combine"
in the water yet but I'm hoping to get "r" done real soon. I plan to
start out this year with brand new fishing line and two fancy new Wa-Pa
(Stan & Emily Pasche) fish magnets. Stan tells me his spinners are
specifically twisted & tied to catch walleye's right in the corner of
their mouth. Ya right!
Some may remember Stan when he coached hockey in Grafton. You
might remember too, Stan was never afraid to open his mouth when he felt
the urge to. Evidently, he has mastered that ability and come up with a
way of instilling it in his Wa-Pa fishing lures.
According to Stan, who says, "drop one of these little babies in
front of a walleye, and they can't possibly keep their mouth shut."
-----------------------
Anyway, I gotta start getting ready for graduation. But before I
do, I would like to welcome Steve & Lunette Kliniske, Emily Kliniske and
Stephanie Kliniske along with Jim & Norma Rystedt to the Gazette family
tree.
==============================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==============================
"I may not always like what you tell me. I will, however, always
appreciate it."
"It isn't hearing something you don't like that hurts you.
More often than not, it's not hearing it, that does."
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.
Grafton, ND
Thursday, May 24, 2007
May 24, 2007 - Thursday - Grafton, ND
There's something sort of pathetic about a horse-fly sitting on the
radiator of a tractor.
----------------------
The current temperature is 60 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 75/56
Normal H/L temp for this date is 73/46
It was 95 degrees on this date in 1928.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
In case you haven't noticed, the whole world is talking about, and,
wondering how to deal with the millions of illegal immigrants in our
country.
Chuck wrote: >>> Gary
Very interesting letter Armando wrote. Very good example of what
can happen in this great country. It sounds just like the story of
our forefathers from Norway, Germany, Poland and the rest. There
should be a simple way the two governments can sit down and figure a way
that the Mexicans can travel back and forth legally, and, if they want
to be citizens they can achieve that goal too. The system they have
now with all its enforcement problems isn't good.
The one problem that should be solved is the language. They should be
required to speak english if they are in this country. I was in the
Cuban section of Miami last week for a while and nobody speaks english.
Nobody. They all seem to know how, but amongst themselves they speak
Spanish. Thats not right. Whens the last time you spoke Norske.
Its to bad Grafton loses people like Armando, sounds like a great guy.
Chuck <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Chuck. I can tell you,
several folks that know Armando and his family have told me, in person
and by email Armando and his family are "top shelf", first class people
that everyone can be very proud of.
-----------------------
This note offers a different shade to the issue. >>>>
I read with interest the point of view of Armando Serrano. Hoeing
beets when I was a kid was not a fun thing to do. I didn't like it and
didn't want to do it. But I was told that I had to and I did. I wouldn't
like to do it again. Having said all that....I wonder what the trade off
in expense would really be if we didn't have to pay for all the social
requirements for the undocumented; from schooling to medical,and
welfare costs. From what I've read it's costing the American taxpayer a
bundle. Maybe the increase in cost of fruit would be a savings. I just
don't know how we can allow open borders after 9-11. I feel sorry for
the poor not only in Mexico but in Darfur and in a hundreds other
countries. But because these other countries can't or won't institute
social programs to keep their people from starving, should we be forced
to feed, educate and medicate anyone and everyone who can sneak into our
country, or make a good enough argument for foreign aid.
The bottom line for me is the fact that it's illegal to enter this
country without proper paperwork. I'm sorry that people are in such bad
shape that they think they have the right to by-pass our laws. But it
doesn't make it right. Illegal is just that. If we are going to indulge
the undocumented and pay all these "benefits", then let's make it legal.
If not.....let's send them home.
Gary, the above is just a rant, and I"m not interested in having my
name used. This is a terrible problem for our country and I'm afraid by
the time we screw around trying to be everything to everyone we are
going to lose our country. For every success story like the Serrano's
there are hundreds of stories of abject poverty and social welfare
nightmares for these "undocumented" workers. The food stamps Mr. Serrano
said was available here had to be paid for by somebody. <<<
-----------------------
I have received an incredible amount of correspondence, both written
and oral on the subject of illegal immigration. It is a most unfortunate
situation to say the least. I think it's important to point out, that
the term "illegal Immigrant" does not necessarily imply individuals of
Mexican origin.
I really believe it's time we drop the subject and move on. I might
add, however, that Bert, by way of rebuttal of sorts sent us some
additional thoughts.
Armando also sent another long, and, I should add, very interesting
note. Due to the lack of time and space the Gazette allows. I am taking
the liberty of sharing the "Readers Digest Version" of Armando's note.
However I will be happy to forward it and Berts, to anyone that might be
interested.
Among many other things, Armando said "America loves Cheap labor and
goods. He stated "todays America requires some kind of formal
training/education to be able to thrive. He quoted Mr. Kapel, as saying,
"If you live in America and you're poor, you're stupid."
Armando credits Mr. Bradshaw as one who made a significant difference
in his life. He also said he didn't want to boast, although in light of
all the facts he shared, he could have. He credits his father as his
authority figure, keeping him straight.
Armando goes on to say that I and others that believe "illegal
immigrants" have broken the law, are ignorant and naive. It also appears
as though Armando thinks we should legalize drugs and he suggests,
taxing the crap out of it is a solution to our drug problem.
Armando finished his very interesting message with the following. "If
you lived in a society where government was corrupt, (all theway to
the president), there was nowork, no food, no chance of improving
your living conditions and just a few hundred miles away was the U.S
border with plenty of work and opportunity. What would you do? People
in Mexico with money and power want more money and greater power.
Armando Serrano, Jr. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing
Armando. One thing is certain, "the problems of the world will never be
solved, until the people of the world stop creating problems."
Or so it seems to me.
---------------------------
If anyone has an interest in reading Armando's full and complete
message, - I believe you will find it interesting- and/or the last
message from Bert Overland. Please let me know and I will be happy to
share them with you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The latest list of Gazette family members Firefighter draw winners.
Mert Pribula, Tom Campbell, Mardell Niswonger, Barb DeSautel and GVFD
by an anonymous donor all won $20. Kristi Stenso won $500.
Congratulations to everyone and thank you for helping our local
firefighters be all they can be.
==================================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
Ignorance isn't always a bad thing, it makes living here, in the
winter, easier.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Grafton, ND
radiator of a tractor.
----------------------
The current temperature is 60 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 75/56
Normal H/L temp for this date is 73/46
It was 95 degrees on this date in 1928.
==============================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==============================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
In case you haven't noticed, the whole world is talking about, and,
wondering how to deal with the millions of illegal immigrants in our
country.
Chuck wrote: >>> Gary
Very interesting letter Armando wrote. Very good example of what
can happen in this great country. It sounds just like the story of
our forefathers from Norway, Germany, Poland and the rest. There
should be a simple way the two governments can sit down and figure a way
that the Mexicans can travel back and forth legally, and, if they want
to be citizens they can achieve that goal too. The system they have
now with all its enforcement problems isn't good.
The one problem that should be solved is the language. They should be
required to speak english if they are in this country. I was in the
Cuban section of Miami last week for a while and nobody speaks english.
Nobody. They all seem to know how, but amongst themselves they speak
Spanish. Thats not right. Whens the last time you spoke Norske.
Its to bad Grafton loses people like Armando, sounds like a great guy.
Chuck <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Chuck. I can tell you,
several folks that know Armando and his family have told me, in person
and by email Armando and his family are "top shelf", first class people
that everyone can be very proud of.
-----------------------
This note offers a different shade to the issue. >>>>
I read with interest the point of view of Armando Serrano. Hoeing
beets when I was a kid was not a fun thing to do. I didn't like it and
didn't want to do it. But I was told that I had to and I did. I wouldn't
like to do it again. Having said all that....I wonder what the trade off
in expense would really be if we didn't have to pay for all the social
requirements for the undocumented; from schooling to medical,and
welfare costs. From what I've read it's costing the American taxpayer a
bundle. Maybe the increase in cost of fruit would be a savings. I just
don't know how we can allow open borders after 9-11. I feel sorry for
the poor not only in Mexico but in Darfur and in a hundreds other
countries. But because these other countries can't or won't institute
social programs to keep their people from starving, should we be forced
to feed, educate and medicate anyone and everyone who can sneak into our
country, or make a good enough argument for foreign aid.
The bottom line for me is the fact that it's illegal to enter this
country without proper paperwork. I'm sorry that people are in such bad
shape that they think they have the right to by-pass our laws. But it
doesn't make it right. Illegal is just that. If we are going to indulge
the undocumented and pay all these "benefits", then let's make it legal.
If not.....let's send them home.
Gary, the above is just a rant, and I"m not interested in having my
name used. This is a terrible problem for our country and I'm afraid by
the time we screw around trying to be everything to everyone we are
going to lose our country. For every success story like the Serrano's
there are hundreds of stories of abject poverty and social welfare
nightmares for these "undocumented" workers. The food stamps Mr. Serrano
said was available here had to be paid for by somebody. <<<
-----------------------
I have received an incredible amount of correspondence, both written
and oral on the subject of illegal immigration. It is a most unfortunate
situation to say the least. I think it's important to point out, that
the term "illegal Immigrant" does not necessarily imply individuals of
Mexican origin.
I really believe it's time we drop the subject and move on. I might
add, however, that Bert, by way of rebuttal of sorts sent us some
additional thoughts.
Armando also sent another long, and, I should add, very interesting
note. Due to the lack of time and space the Gazette allows. I am taking
the liberty of sharing the "Readers Digest Version" of Armando's note.
However I will be happy to forward it and Berts, to anyone that might be
interested.
Among many other things, Armando said "America loves Cheap labor and
goods. He stated "todays America requires some kind of formal
training/education to be able to thrive. He quoted Mr. Kapel, as saying,
"If you live in America and you're poor, you're stupid."
Armando credits Mr. Bradshaw as one who made a significant difference
in his life. He also said he didn't want to boast, although in light of
all the facts he shared, he could have. He credits his father as his
authority figure, keeping him straight.
Armando goes on to say that I and others that believe "illegal
immigrants" have broken the law, are ignorant and naive. It also appears
as though Armando thinks we should legalize drugs and he suggests,
taxing the crap out of it is a solution to our drug problem.
Armando finished his very interesting message with the following. "If
you lived in a society where government was corrupt, (all theway to
the president), there was nowork, no food, no chance of improving
your living conditions and just a few hundred miles away was the U.S
border with plenty of work and opportunity. What would you do? People
in Mexico with money and power want more money and greater power.
Armando Serrano, Jr. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing
Armando. One thing is certain, "the problems of the world will never be
solved, until the people of the world stop creating problems."
Or so it seems to me.
---------------------------
If anyone has an interest in reading Armando's full and complete
message, - I believe you will find it interesting- and/or the last
message from Bert Overland. Please let me know and I will be happy to
share them with you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The latest list of Gazette family members Firefighter draw winners.
Mert Pribula, Tom Campbell, Mardell Niswonger, Barb DeSautel and GVFD
by an anonymous donor all won $20. Kristi Stenso won $500.
Congratulations to everyone and thank you for helping our local
firefighters be all they can be.
==============================
GOTTA - GO - WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==============================
Ignorance isn't always a bad thing, it makes living here, in the
winter, easier.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Grafton, ND
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
May 23, 2007 - Wednesday - Grafton, ND
The moon not only pulls the oceans back and forth; it can stop cars on
side roads too.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 62 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 80/48
Normal H/L temp for this date is 73/46
It was 96 degrees on this date in 1980.
Rain reports from .22 inches to well over 2 inches throughout the area.
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-------------------------
Rainfall amounts over the last day or so used to be called a million
dollar rain. Unfortunately,.... now days, a million dollars wouldn't buy
enough equipment to harvest the crop.
--------------------------
Gary
In regards to Mr. Serrano's comments on illegal immigrants. I grew up
in a small town (similar to Grafton) where the population was
predominantly Caucasian. The comments that I make are not about every
hispanic person. Like every race, there are good and bad.
First of all, from talking with area farmers, the need for field
workers has dropped dramatically in the past few years. Technology has
replaced much of the need for field workers. Yes, some are still needed,
but not the numbers that used to be. Why then do we see so many migrant
workers here? And why do we see so many that are not working? Do they
just come with the family because it entitles them to more assistance?
And speaking of assistance... why should my tax dollars go to support
people who choose not to work? Is the rumor true that field workers tell
farmers not to pay them until the end of harvest so that they can
receive the maximum benefits ie: food stamps, medical assistance,
housing assistance?
Secondly, what about the change that happens to our community during the
summer months? For whatever reason, migrant workers or not, the safety
of our community decreases during these months. It has been said that
our crime rate also increases during this time. Is it a coincidence?
Most appalling is the fact that illegal immigrants say that they want to
come to the U.S.A to make a better life for their family yet they refuse
to adapt to the way of life. I don't care what country you come from,
this is the U.S.A, our national language is English. I would not move to
a foreign country and expect them to learn English. If I chose to live
there, I would learn the language. We are currently spending hundreds of
thousands of dollars "adapting" our language for people who are here
illegally. Is that really what we should be spending our tax dollars on?
Bottom line, if you want to benefit from the opportunities that the
U.S.A has to offer... do it legally. Honor your culture but do not
expect everyone to take care of you or to adapt to your way of life. Do
not come here and become a drain on our resources. Become a productive
member of society and you will be accepted and you will succeed as Mr.
Serrano has. Life is not about getting ahead the easy way, the illegal
way, it is about working hard.
-----------------------
Loren sent the following thoughts. >>> Gary:
I enjoyed Mr. Serrano's message. I suspect from
his achievement level that he is NOT one of those that the rest of
America thinks/worries about when they think of amnesty, etc. He and his
family are probably not "typical" (indeed, is anyone?). I also wish I
had a better reference of his family's time frame.
Part of the comprehension problem - especially
in the Upper Midwest - is that many of us are only two generations away
from the ancestor who arrived in the USA in the late 1800's. The myriad
of stories about coping with the language, living BELOW ground in the
first winter after homesteading, etc., have all left their mark.
With regard to the "time" reference, Mr. Serrano
might not have seen HIS white classmates in the fields, but one summer
(once was enough - I want to say that I was 12 or 13; let's see, I'm 29
now - that would make in 1978 I guess....) there were a number of us
doing that very job. As I recall, the pay standard was 10 cents a row
and you had to do ten rows to get an acre. And if you wanted to have a
heart attack at age 12, all you had to do was "TRY" to keep pace with
the hispanic working on the row next to yours.
Those of us who did this - and somehow I almost wish I could
remember the "Who thought this was a good idea." aspect. It did however,
establish some life-changing patterns:
1. This was NOT what I wished to pursue for a career.
2. I learned enough Spanish curse words so that I could sometimes
"interpret" for John Kliniscke in later years when we were contesting
the "Polish/Scandinavian vs Hispanola Pool Olympics." (Ah yes, a pair of
Florsheim loafers for $13.99...)
Communicate.......and that INCLUDES listening. I assume 2007 will
be a record year for mosquitos as well as cicadas? LL
------------------------
This one comes from a full blown member of the nation that operates
Early American Monetary Distribution Centers. >>>
In answer to Mr. Kingsburys letter. The last time I checked my family
tree, on both sides, I might add that the entire tree either came here
legally or was here already on a reservation! Not because they wanted to
be on that reservation either! I will not go any farther except to say
don't lump me and mine in with a group of illegal immigrants from
anywhere because that's not right. The can with the true Native
Americans on the lid should be left closed. Hope I'm not out of line
Gary. Mike <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Mike.
------------------------
Then there was this one that looks at the issue from a different
knothole. >>>
The immigration thing is a huge beast that isn't easy to solve or it
would have been solved long ago. Not sure I want to get involved in the
"Discussion" regarding it, but the illegal immigrants come here for one
thing, and that's opportunity. I doubt very much any of them come here
entirely for our social programs, most are probably good workers looking
to better themselves. It's easy to complain about them being here, but
lets not forget they wouldn't be here if the thing they are after wasn't
available, opportunity. And where does that opportunity come from? From
LEGAL AMERICANS who knowingly hire illegal immigrants because they can
pay them less than a legal resident. And in my opinion there's the
problem. People talk about throwing the illegals in jail or sending them
back to where they came from, but what we need to do is take swift harsh
action against those who hire illegals. Stiff fines and long jail terms
for those hiring illegals would be a deterrent to other employers
thinking of breaking the law by hiring them. After all, we like to
complain about the illegals being lawbreakers, but it's also illegal for
us to hire them. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing. The
process of immigration leaves much to be desired. I find it unfortunate
that most "immigrants" are depicted as "mere" field workers, trying to
eke out a living crawling up and down agricultural fields. When, in my
opinion, the fact is most "immigrants" today can be found working in the
industrial trades area of the nations work force. Where, unfortunately,
they are often exploited for the benefit of wealthy industrialists.
The best way to solve a problem is to talk about it, understand it and
then deal directly with it. More often than not, politics does not solve
a problem. More often than not, politics is the problem.
Or so it seems to me.
==================================
GOTTA - GO -WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==================================
The response to Armando's letter, both pro and con, has been nothing
short of unbelievable.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Grafton, ND
side roads too.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 62 degrees.
Yesterdays H/L temperature was 80/48
Normal H/L temp for this date is 73/46
It was 96 degrees on this date in 1980.
Rain reports from .22 inches to well over 2 inches throughout the area.
==============================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==============================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
-------------------------
Rainfall amounts over the last day or so used to be called a million
dollar rain. Unfortunately,.... now days, a million dollars wouldn't buy
enough equipment to harvest the crop.
--------------------------
Gary
In regards to Mr. Serrano's comments on illegal immigrants. I grew up
in a small town (similar to Grafton) where the population was
predominantly Caucasian. The comments that I make are not about every
hispanic person. Like every race, there are good and bad.
First of all, from talking with area farmers, the need for field
workers has dropped dramatically in the past few years. Technology has
replaced much of the need for field workers. Yes, some are still needed,
but not the numbers that used to be. Why then do we see so many migrant
workers here? And why do we see so many that are not working? Do they
just come with the family because it entitles them to more assistance?
And speaking of assistance... why should my tax dollars go to support
people who choose not to work? Is the rumor true that field workers tell
farmers not to pay them until the end of harvest so that they can
receive the maximum benefits ie: food stamps, medical assistance,
housing assistance?
Secondly, what about the change that happens to our community during the
summer months? For whatever reason, migrant workers or not, the safety
of our community decreases during these months. It has been said that
our crime rate also increases during this time. Is it a coincidence?
Most appalling is the fact that illegal immigrants say that they want to
come to the U.S.A to make a better life for their family yet they refuse
to adapt to the way of life. I don't care what country you come from,
this is the U.S.A, our national language is English. I would not move to
a foreign country and expect them to learn English. If I chose to live
there, I would learn the language. We are currently spending hundreds of
thousands of dollars "adapting" our language for people who are here
illegally. Is that really what we should be spending our tax dollars on?
Bottom line, if you want to benefit from the opportunities that the
U.S.A has to offer... do it legally. Honor your culture but do not
expect everyone to take care of you or to adapt to your way of life. Do
not come here and become a drain on our resources. Become a productive
member of society and you will be accepted and you will succeed as Mr.
Serrano has. Life is not about getting ahead the easy way, the illegal
way, it is about working hard.
-----------------------
Loren sent the following thoughts. >>> Gary:
I enjoyed Mr. Serrano's message. I suspect from
his achievement level that he is NOT one of those that the rest of
America thinks/worries about when they think of amnesty, etc. He and his
family are probably not "typical" (indeed, is anyone?). I also wish I
had a better reference of his family's time frame.
Part of the comprehension problem - especially
in the Upper Midwest - is that many of us are only two generations away
from the ancestor who arrived in the USA in the late 1800's. The myriad
of stories about coping with the language, living BELOW ground in the
first winter after homesteading, etc., have all left their mark.
With regard to the "time" reference, Mr. Serrano
might not have seen HIS white classmates in the fields, but one summer
(once was enough - I want to say that I was 12 or 13; let's see, I'm 29
now - that would make in 1978 I guess....) there were a number of us
doing that very job. As I recall, the pay standard was 10 cents a row
and you had to do ten rows to get an acre. And if you wanted to have a
heart attack at age 12, all you had to do was "TRY" to keep pace with
the hispanic working on the row next to yours.
Those of us who did this - and somehow I almost wish I could
remember the "Who thought this was a good idea." aspect. It did however,
establish some life-changing patterns:
1. This was NOT what I wished to pursue for a career.
2. I learned enough Spanish curse words so that I could sometimes
"interpret" for John Kliniscke in later years when we were contesting
the "Polish/Scandinavian vs Hispanola Pool Olympics." (Ah yes, a pair of
Florsheim loafers for $13.99...)
Communicate.......and that INCLUDES listening. I assume 2007 will
be a record year for mosquitos as well as cicadas? LL
------------------------
This one comes from a full blown member of the nation that operates
Early American Monetary Distribution Centers. >>>
In answer to Mr. Kingsburys letter. The last time I checked my family
tree, on both sides, I might add that the entire tree either came here
legally or was here already on a reservation! Not because they wanted to
be on that reservation either! I will not go any farther except to say
don't lump me and mine in with a group of illegal immigrants from
anywhere because that's not right. The can with the true Native
Americans on the lid should be left closed. Hope I'm not out of line
Gary. Mike <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Mike.
------------------------
Then there was this one that looks at the issue from a different
knothole. >>>
The immigration thing is a huge beast that isn't easy to solve or it
would have been solved long ago. Not sure I want to get involved in the
"Discussion" regarding it, but the illegal immigrants come here for one
thing, and that's opportunity. I doubt very much any of them come here
entirely for our social programs, most are probably good workers looking
to better themselves. It's easy to complain about them being here, but
lets not forget they wouldn't be here if the thing they are after wasn't
available, opportunity. And where does that opportunity come from? From
LEGAL AMERICANS who knowingly hire illegal immigrants because they can
pay them less than a legal resident. And in my opinion there's the
problem. People talk about throwing the illegals in jail or sending them
back to where they came from, but what we need to do is take swift harsh
action against those who hire illegals. Stiff fines and long jail terms
for those hiring illegals would be a deterrent to other employers
thinking of breaking the law by hiring them. After all, we like to
complain about the illegals being lawbreakers, but it's also illegal for
us to hire them. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing. The
process of immigration leaves much to be desired. I find it unfortunate
that most "immigrants" are depicted as "mere" field workers, trying to
eke out a living crawling up and down agricultural fields. When, in my
opinion, the fact is most "immigrants" today can be found working in the
industrial trades area of the nations work force. Where, unfortunately,
they are often exploited for the benefit of wealthy industrialists.
The best way to solve a problem is to talk about it, understand it and
then deal directly with it. More often than not, politics does not solve
a problem. More often than not, politics is the problem.
Or so it seems to me.
==============================
GOTTA - GO -WORK - ON - MY - DASH
==============================
The response to Armando's letter, both pro and con, has been nothing
short of unbelievable.
Write if you can, call if you can't, and, tell your loved ones they are,
before it's too late.
Grafton, ND
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
May 22, 2007 - Tuesday - Grafton, ND
Only in America does it take 35 million laws to enforce the Ten
Commandments.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 68 degrees.
The question isn't, will it rain? The question is, when, and how much?
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
Contractors are putting the old blacktop from McHugh ave over the
gravel just east of the parking lot where Summerfests Thursday night
band will be playing. It should make for a lot less dust and a lot
bigger crowd.
----------------------
Armando's note gave several folks reason to care and share. Ralph
wrote. >>>
Armando is correct in what he wrote, as far as he wrote. He forgot to
mention that every one of us (including the so-called NATIVE Americans)
come from immigrant stock. More than most realize, many of them were
also illegal, coming across from Canada where immigration was much
easier. Most also came with nothing. They went out on the prairies and
built their houses out of dirt. Most had to learn a new language. There
were no schools. There were no roads. In fact, in most cases, there were
no towns. They didn't work for $7 an hour. If they were lucky, they
worked for pennies an hour. Often it was for room (the barn) and board
(taken outside, or in the barn). Simply putting their backs into it look
what they have done over 4 to 6 generations. That is all we ask of those
who have come after us. Do as we do. No more, but no less.
That is what you have done, Armando. Like our forefathers, you started
with nothing, and with hard work and the same taxpayer subsidized
education as those who came 100 years or more earlier. You have lifted
yourself by your boot straps to a successful professional life. We are
happy for you. I do ask that you remember that those who used your
"cheap labor" understand it because they are only one or two generations
away from it. Those memories last through several generations, at least
in a God-fearing people. Also, remember always that it was America that
allowed your parents to stay even though they were "illegal". And look
at the education and opportunity America gave you.
As for me, I do not feel bad I hired people for $7 an hour. I am glad
American capitalism gave me the opportunity to hire someone. I hope you
are, too.
Like all of us, you too deserve a good future, Armando. Isn't it great
you had America to come to?
Ralph Kingsbury <<<
+++++
The next note speaks with a bit more "aggressive enthusiasm". Bert
wrote. >>>
Armando Serrano should pay back to the U.S. taxpayersall the
personal wealth and knowledge he boasted about by returning to Mexico
and making it into acountry that is fit for all human beings to live
in. God didn't just bless America by making it a great place overnight.
Armando was an illegal who apparently chose to stay that way until given
amnesty by Regan and now he thinks America will crash if we sendthe
illegalsback where they came from. I'd like Armando to say one thing
he has done to improve things in the country his
familydeserted.And with his proclaimed success what has he done
to repay America for the wealth he gained fromher? He may help people
at the medical center but he is apparently making big bucks doing
that.
Also, Armando didn't have to educate me and all the other kids
about breaking our backs in the fields when we were kids, most of us --
especially the "East Side Kids" know what dawn to dusk in the fields was
like. At six years walking the fields picking mustard wet to the waist
from dew and in the hot sun six 10 hour days each week---Glad to have
the job at 12 cents per hour. When old enough to handle it we
graduated to roaging potatoes with a hoe and then in the fall bent over
12 hour days picking potatoes. Then when we got strong enough to handle
it the days grew to 16 hours storing and processing the spuds,missing
the first four weeks of school doing our daily assignments after work
each day and all day Sunday. Who says we would not do the
work.Armando must have come with the "later ilIegals", find me a
North Dakota K12 classroom without a whitefarm kid in it, he said he
was the only non-white there.
And, I can't speak for the Mexicans but it sure doesn't take 6 or 7
years to potty trainwhite kids as he seemed to infere---whites are
like big babies. He talked about having to use an outhouse, well, so did
we and we were using it when it wasfar below zero,and storming --
we couldn't escape to a warmer climate.
Armando without doubt stillretains the attitude the current
illegals have. Instead of bashing America for notwelcoming all these
lawbreakers he should see them for just what they are, people dedicated
to breaking our laws instead of following the more difficult but legal
path. Enough of this class of free-loaderpersons and they will
destroy the America we have worked for and fought for to preserve.
California prisons are 18,000 beds over-crowded, the state prison said
that is because they are housing and feeding over 20,000 illegal Mexican
criminals mostly for drug traffic, theft and violent crimes. Lets shut
the border tight, throw out the illegals and welcome those who agree to
follow our laws whether it be temporary or permanent. A dangerous
thought---see yourself in Mexico as an illegal alien, broke, hungry,
need medical assistance,can't speak the language,with nothing but
the clothes on your back. Would there be someone like Armando to take
care of you or would you end up dying in a Mexican Jail and thrown in an
unmarked hole in the ground. Think there are any illegal whites
welcomedin Mexico?
Bert A. Overland.1st generation
Norwegian from a father who had a trade, whospent two years learning
english and earningenough money to survivesohe would not have
to sponge off thethe American taxpayer. This he didBEFORE he
sailed to America. <<< Thanks a million Bert. Maybe someday when you
have time you can tell us what you "really" think.
--------------------------
Subject: Caring and Sharing
OK - Gary, I am caring and sharing. On Saturday around 12:30 p.m. I
quickly stopped at Wally's on my way to a family confirmation dinner.
Picked up my items, got some cash, stuffed it in my purse, pushed my
cart to my car, unloaded it and took off.Got to the dinner with no
purse.I hurried back to Wally's, looked in my
cart - it was empty. Ran into Wally's and asked the checkout girl if
I left it there - she said no.I Went to the courtesy counter and the
young man behind the counter held up my purse with a questioning
look.I had left it, unzipped with a $20 bill half hanging out of the
top, in the cart,in the middle of the parking lot!! An unknown
saviour picked it up and left it at the courtesy counter. I checked
and everything was there - including
the money shoved in the top.The young man at the counter didn't know
who brought it in. You can't imagine how thankful I am, since
weare now26 days and counting until wedding day for our daughter.
How could I finish planning a wedding with no credit cards?? Ha.
Since so many people read your gazette, I am hoping that the "good
samaritan" reads this and knows how much I appreciate it. Ain't it
great to live in Grafton??!!
Cheryl Vistad <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Cheryl. The
fact is Cheryl, chances are almost even that the person that "saved"
your day was either a migrant, or, a former migrant that has decided to
settle, permanently, in our area.
Besides, if you're only 26 days from a daughters wedding, and, you
still have a loose twenty dollar bill in your purse. You must be related
to Bill Gates.
------------------------
Please welcome Denise (Demers) Sandy and Brian James (KXPO) to the
Gazette family tree.
==================================
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.
Grafton, ND
Commandments.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 68 degrees.
The question isn't, will it rain? The question is, when, and how much?
==============================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==============================
Contractors are putting the old blacktop from McHugh ave over the
gravel just east of the parking lot where Summerfests Thursday night
band will be playing. It should make for a lot less dust and a lot
bigger crowd.
----------------------
Armando's note gave several folks reason to care and share. Ralph
wrote. >>>
Armando is correct in what he wrote, as far as he wrote. He forgot to
mention that every one of us (including the so-called NATIVE Americans)
come from immigrant stock. More than most realize, many of them were
also illegal, coming across from Canada where immigration was much
easier. Most also came with nothing. They went out on the prairies and
built their houses out of dirt. Most had to learn a new language. There
were no schools. There were no roads. In fact, in most cases, there were
no towns. They didn't work for $7 an hour. If they were lucky, they
worked for pennies an hour. Often it was for room (the barn) and board
(taken outside, or in the barn). Simply putting their backs into it look
what they have done over 4 to 6 generations. That is all we ask of those
who have come after us. Do as we do. No more, but no less.
That is what you have done, Armando. Like our forefathers, you started
with nothing, and with hard work and the same taxpayer subsidized
education as those who came 100 years or more earlier. You have lifted
yourself by your boot straps to a successful professional life. We are
happy for you. I do ask that you remember that those who used your
"cheap labor" understand it because they are only one or two generations
away from it. Those memories last through several generations, at least
in a God-fearing people. Also, remember always that it was America that
allowed your parents to stay even though they were "illegal". And look
at the education and opportunity America gave you.
As for me, I do not feel bad I hired people for $7 an hour. I am glad
American capitalism gave me the opportunity to hire someone. I hope you
are, too.
Like all of us, you too deserve a good future, Armando. Isn't it great
you had America to come to?
Ralph Kingsbury <<<
+++++
The next note speaks with a bit more "aggressive enthusiasm". Bert
wrote. >>>
Armando Serrano should pay back to the U.S. taxpayersall the
personal wealth and knowledge he boasted about by returning to Mexico
and making it into acountry that is fit for all human beings to live
in. God didn't just bless America by making it a great place overnight.
Armando was an illegal who apparently chose to stay that way until given
amnesty by Regan and now he thinks America will crash if we sendthe
illegalsback where they came from. I'd like Armando to say one thing
he has done to improve things in the country his
familydeserted.And with his proclaimed success what has he done
to repay America for the wealth he gained fromher? He may help people
at the medical center but he is apparently making big bucks doing
that.
Also, Armando didn't have to educate me and all the other kids
about breaking our backs in the fields when we were kids, most of us --
especially the "East Side Kids" know what dawn to dusk in the fields was
like. At six years walking the fields picking mustard wet to the waist
from dew and in the hot sun six 10 hour days each week---Glad to have
the job at 12 cents per hour. When old enough to handle it we
graduated to roaging potatoes with a hoe and then in the fall bent over
12 hour days picking potatoes. Then when we got strong enough to handle
it the days grew to 16 hours storing and processing the spuds,missing
the first four weeks of school doing our daily assignments after work
each day and all day Sunday. Who says we would not do the
work.Armando must have come with the "later ilIegals", find me a
North Dakota K12 classroom without a whitefarm kid in it, he said he
was the only non-white there.
And, I can't speak for the Mexicans but it sure doesn't take 6 or 7
years to potty trainwhite kids as he seemed to infere---whites are
like big babies. He talked about having to use an outhouse, well, so did
we and we were using it when it wasfar below zero,and storming --
we couldn't escape to a warmer climate.
Armando without doubt stillretains the attitude the current
illegals have. Instead of bashing America for notwelcoming all these
lawbreakers he should see them for just what they are, people dedicated
to breaking our laws instead of following the more difficult but legal
path. Enough of this class of free-loaderpersons and they will
destroy the America we have worked for and fought for to preserve.
California prisons are 18,000 beds over-crowded, the state prison said
that is because they are housing and feeding over 20,000 illegal Mexican
criminals mostly for drug traffic, theft and violent crimes. Lets shut
the border tight, throw out the illegals and welcome those who agree to
follow our laws whether it be temporary or permanent. A dangerous
thought---see yourself in Mexico as an illegal alien, broke, hungry,
need medical assistance,can't speak the language,with nothing but
the clothes on your back. Would there be someone like Armando to take
care of you or would you end up dying in a Mexican Jail and thrown in an
unmarked hole in the ground. Think there are any illegal whites
welcomedin Mexico?
Bert A. Overland.1st generation
Norwegian from a father who had a trade, whospent two years learning
english and earningenough money to survivesohe would not have
to sponge off thethe American taxpayer. This he didBEFORE he
sailed to America. <<< Thanks a million Bert. Maybe someday when you
have time you can tell us what you "really" think.
--------------------------
Subject: Caring and Sharing
OK - Gary, I am caring and sharing. On Saturday around 12:30 p.m. I
quickly stopped at Wally's on my way to a family confirmation dinner.
Picked up my items, got some cash, stuffed it in my purse, pushed my
cart to my car, unloaded it and took off.Got to the dinner with no
purse.I hurried back to Wally's, looked in my
cart - it was empty. Ran into Wally's and asked the checkout girl if
I left it there - she said no.I Went to the courtesy counter and the
young man behind the counter held up my purse with a questioning
look.I had left it, unzipped with a $20 bill half hanging out of the
top, in the cart,in the middle of the parking lot!! An unknown
saviour picked it up and left it at the courtesy counter. I checked
and everything was there - including
the money shoved in the top.The young man at the counter didn't know
who brought it in. You can't imagine how thankful I am, since
weare now26 days and counting until wedding day for our daughter.
How could I finish planning a wedding with no credit cards?? Ha.
Since so many people read your gazette, I am hoping that the "good
samaritan" reads this and knows how much I appreciate it. Ain't it
great to live in Grafton??!!
Cheryl Vistad <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Cheryl. The
fact is Cheryl, chances are almost even that the person that "saved"
your day was either a migrant, or, a former migrant that has decided to
settle, permanently, in our area.
Besides, if you're only 26 days from a daughters wedding, and, you
still have a loose twenty dollar bill in your purse. You must be related
to Bill Gates.
------------------------
Please welcome Denise (Demers) Sandy and Brian James (KXPO) to the
Gazette family tree.
==============================
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.
Grafton, ND
Monday, May 21, 2007
May 21, 2007 - Monday - Grafton, ND
Women can keep a secret just as well as men, but it usually takes more
of them to do it.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 60 degrees
Yesterdays H/L temperature was N/A
Normal H/L temp for this date is N/A
==================================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==================================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
Contractors started removing the blacktop from McHugh Avenue this
morning,... craters and all. Rumor has it the project is expected to be
completed by mid July. I'm not sure if that's this July or next.
-------------------------
The Photo show Tom Kutz shared with us was extremely well received by
many.
Marjie wrote. >>> Good morning Gary,
How lucky it is for those interested in Grafton's history to have
those photos Tom Kutz shared.
I really enjoyed his musical choice for the slide show too.
I've read your story about how the Gazette came about so I am sure
you may be surprised to realize what it has become and how far your
message travels. You have drawn your community together to
proudlyshare your history,your present and hopes for the future.
Well done, Gary. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Marjie.
++++
Gary thanks for Tom Kutz' photo show, it was fantastic. Thanks Tom and
also hope the fishing is great. Some day we hope to return to Baudette
to do some fishing ourselves. Have a great summer Pat and Gary. Ted and
Gail Kress in smokey Fl.
++++
Loved Tom's pictures! Thanks for sharing. JoAnn Wentz Beale
~~~~
The walk down memory lane gave Joyce reason to share this one. >>>
Gary,
Aren't trips down memory lane wonderful? You're right when you talk
about all the trees my dad planted in and around Grafton. He used to
take us for rides and show us where some of the trees he had planted
were, and it pretty much covered most of the town. He also had a black
walnut tree in his yard on the corner of Prospect and 10th, and it is
still doing well, although there are new owners in the house now and I
don't know if they realize just how special that tree is.
Thank you for keeping us in touch with all the news as it happens in
Grafton.
Sincerely, Joyce (Ebertowski) Anderson <<< Thanks for caring and
sharing Joyce. This is also the time of the year when Ed would walk up
and down the Greenhouse isles making sure all the bedding plants had
"everything they need".
~~~~~~~
I am pleased to share the following note from Russell. >>> Gary
Carole and I read the Gazette regularly. We still have many friends
and relatives in Grafton. I would like to point out that, at least, two
other people that I'm aware of from that generation have also made
significant contributions in the high tech arena; Marjie (Johnson)
Spicher and Phil Wralstad. It wasn't easy for a woman in that time
frame. There are probably many others. Ron Moe has a much better handle
on this than I do. I don't know how many of us were affected by Harold
Bliss. Russ
Russell Lefevre, Ph.D.
IEEE-USA President 2008 <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing
Russell. I'd guess no-one could put a definite number on the people
lives Harold changed. Many more than anyone will ever know might be a
pretty close estimate.
~~~~
Dear Gary, Susan and I have looked forward to each edition of the
ShiverCity Gazette and Skeeterville Gazette since joining your long list
of "subscribers". We are very pleased to have been raised and
continue to have ties to a small town with people who have such big
hearts as those in Grafton and the Grafton area. We were especially
touched to read of all the efforts that had been made to make Orpha and
Herb Bertsch's auction sale possible in spite of the weather. Jan
Bertsch Heyderhoff and her husband Bill are members of our church in
Cottage Grove, MN and good friends of ours. Jan is a niece of Herb
and Orpha. She has kept us informed as to Orpha and Herb over the 36
years that we have lived in Cottage Grove. I have made copies of the
two SKEETERVILLE GAZETTEs in which you report on the Bertsch's auction
to give to them. Jan and Bill Heyderhoff, Susan and I thank Gil and
Elena Mae Herbel, Mayor Todd Burianek and all the others who helped to
make the auction possible in spite of the weather.
Susan and I are looking forward to being in Grafton duringSummerfest
this summer.
Bob Torkelson <<< Thanks for caring and sharing Bob. We certainly will
miss Herb and Orpha in our little community, however, we will never
forget them.
---------------------
Gary,
I wasn't sure what to make of your entry for friday. "to be over
shadowed by an even greater segment of our society working diligently to
exonerate more than TEN MILLION individuals that "everyone" agrees is
here ILLEGALLY.
I haven't heard it, yet, although I'm wondering if congrees will see
fit to "forgive" the folks that broke into the Gate City Bank in Park
River the other day.
Of course robbing banks is illegal. However, I'm sure the robbers are
only doing it to afford (pardon the pun) them a better life style than
they would have otherwise."
I don't know the facts about the robbery in Park River, but
from reading your comment, it seems to me that the robbers where illegal
immigrants?
My family immigrated to Grafton illegally when I was about 4 years
old.My entire familyworked for many area farmers working in the
potato/sugar beat/wheat harvest. It wasn't easy work waking up at 5am at
7years old and hoeing beets from sunset to sun down. Child labor laws
are virtually non-existent when it came to farming, especially when it
came to hiring illegal immigrants to do the work that nobody else wanted
to do. In the many years that I worked hoeing beets in the summer, never
did I run into one of my school classmates(who were all white) and say
'hey, you're hoeing beets this summer too'.
Ronald Reagan passed the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986
which gave amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants, including my
family.
Bad apples are everywhere. I first realized that hoeing beets wasn't
for me at the tender age of 7. Most 6, 7 year olds now are still
learning to be potty trained. Hoeing beets every summer instilled in me
a very strong, hard, work ethic that is still strong today.
Most people that are against amnesty for illegal immigrants have no
clue what poverty is. Older folks might have an idea of what it is to
live in poverty(Depression). But even then, the government supplied
rations. People in Mexico are either rich or poor. There isn't anything
in between. If you or your child is out of food, tough luck. In America,
you get food stamps.
Before my parent's immigrated to Grafton, our family of 6 lived in a
2 bedroom, concrete shack with an outhouse.
There are good and bad apples amongst all beings. I am the epitome
of the "American Dream." A house in Austin, TX, an apt. in SF, college
educated. Most people that cross the border illegally just want to be
able to have a roof under their heads, and not worry whether their
babies will have food for the week. I know that's the reason whymy
parent's made it to Grafton, ND and why they're still there.
'La Migra' wasn't as prominent in ND as it was in TX, CA or the
other southern states that border Mexico. Additionally, there was plenty
of agricultural work for them. Many of the area farmers turned a blind
eye to the fact that they were illegal. They wanted their sugar beet
fields thinned and weeded for $22/acre and they neededto complete
potato harvest for $7/hr.They didn't care if you were an 'illegal
alien' or a martian from outer space! They needed the work done for
cheap.
People complain so much about gas being so expensive at $3.80 in
SF. I'm sure there would be riots if all the illegal immigrants were
ousted out of the country and people had to pay $3 for a tomato, $4 for
a head of lettuce, $2 for an orange. What would CA farmers do? What
would Grafton, NDfarmershave done without the help of those same
immigrants who hoed their fields for $22/acre?
If you'd like a much better perspective about the impact illegal
immigrants have on this country and the U.S economy. I recommend
watching "A Day Without A Mexican".
Thank you for your time.
Armando Serrano, Jr., BS, RRT
Respiratory Therapist
UCSF Medical Center
San Francisco, CA <<< Thanks a million for caing and sharing Armando. My
inferance certainly wasn't that the bank robbers were illegal
immigrants. Rather that the act of robbing a bank is also an illegal
act.
==================================
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.
Grafton, ND
of them to do it.
-----------------------
The current temperature is 60 degrees
Yesterdays H/L temperature was N/A
Normal H/L temp for this date is N/A
==============================
"Profanity makes ignorance audible."
==============================
L O C A L news & stuff,.. mostly stuff.
------------------------
Contractors started removing the blacktop from McHugh Avenue this
morning,... craters and all. Rumor has it the project is expected to be
completed by mid July. I'm not sure if that's this July or next.
-------------------------
The Photo show Tom Kutz shared with us was extremely well received by
many.
Marjie wrote. >>> Good morning Gary,
How lucky it is for those interested in Grafton's history to have
those photos Tom Kutz shared.
I really enjoyed his musical choice for the slide show too.
I've read your story about how the Gazette came about so I am sure
you may be surprised to realize what it has become and how far your
message travels. You have drawn your community together to
proudlyshare your history,your present and hopes for the future.
Well done, Gary. <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing Marjie.
++++
Gary thanks for Tom Kutz' photo show, it was fantastic. Thanks Tom and
also hope the fishing is great. Some day we hope to return to Baudette
to do some fishing ourselves. Have a great summer Pat and Gary. Ted and
Gail Kress in smokey Fl.
++++
Loved Tom's pictures! Thanks for sharing. JoAnn Wentz Beale
~~~~
The walk down memory lane gave Joyce reason to share this one. >>>
Gary,
Aren't trips down memory lane wonderful? You're right when you talk
about all the trees my dad planted in and around Grafton. He used to
take us for rides and show us where some of the trees he had planted
were, and it pretty much covered most of the town. He also had a black
walnut tree in his yard on the corner of Prospect and 10th, and it is
still doing well, although there are new owners in the house now and I
don't know if they realize just how special that tree is.
Thank you for keeping us in touch with all the news as it happens in
Grafton.
Sincerely, Joyce (Ebertowski) Anderson <<< Thanks for caring and
sharing Joyce. This is also the time of the year when Ed would walk up
and down the Greenhouse isles making sure all the bedding plants had
"everything they need".
~~~~~~~
I am pleased to share the following note from Russell. >>> Gary
Carole and I read the Gazette regularly. We still have many friends
and relatives in Grafton. I would like to point out that, at least, two
other people that I'm aware of from that generation have also made
significant contributions in the high tech arena; Marjie (Johnson)
Spicher and Phil Wralstad. It wasn't easy for a woman in that time
frame. There are probably many others. Ron Moe has a much better handle
on this than I do. I don't know how many of us were affected by Harold
Bliss. Russ
Russell Lefevre, Ph.D.
IEEE-USA President 2008 <<< Thanks a million for caring and sharing
Russell. I'd guess no-one could put a definite number on the people
lives Harold changed. Many more than anyone will ever know might be a
pretty close estimate.
~~~~
Dear Gary, Susan and I have looked forward to each edition of the
ShiverCity Gazette and Skeeterville Gazette since joining your long list
of "subscribers". We are very pleased to have been raised and
continue to have ties to a small town with people who have such big
hearts as those in Grafton and the Grafton area. We were especially
touched to read of all the efforts that had been made to make Orpha and
Herb Bertsch's auction sale possible in spite of the weather. Jan
Bertsch Heyderhoff and her husband Bill are members of our church in
Cottage Grove, MN and good friends of ours. Jan is a niece of Herb
and Orpha. She has kept us informed as to Orpha and Herb over the 36
years that we have lived in Cottage Grove. I have made copies of the
two SKEETERVILLE GAZETTEs in which you report on the Bertsch's auction
to give to them. Jan and Bill Heyderhoff, Susan and I thank Gil and
Elena Mae Herbel, Mayor Todd Burianek and all the others who helped to
make the auction possible in spite of the weather.
Susan and I are looking forward to being in Grafton duringSummerfest
this summer.
Bob Torkelson <<< Thanks for caring and sharing Bob. We certainly will
miss Herb and Orpha in our little community, however, we will never
forget them.
---------------------
Gary,
I wasn't sure what to make of your entry for friday. "to be over
shadowed by an even greater segment of our society working diligently to
exonerate more than TEN MILLION individuals that "everyone" agrees is
here ILLEGALLY.
I haven't heard it, yet, although I'm wondering if congrees will see
fit to "forgive" the folks that broke into the Gate City Bank in Park
River the other day.
Of course robbing banks is illegal. However, I'm sure the robbers are
only doing it to afford (pardon the pun) them a better life style than
they would have otherwise."
I don't know the facts about the robbery in Park River, but
from reading your comment, it seems to me that the robbers where illegal
immigrants?
My family immigrated to Grafton illegally when I was about 4 years
old.My entire familyworked for many area farmers working in the
potato/sugar beat/wheat harvest. It wasn't easy work waking up at 5am at
7years old and hoeing beets from sunset to sun down. Child labor laws
are virtually non-existent when it came to farming, especially when it
came to hiring illegal immigrants to do the work that nobody else wanted
to do. In the many years that I worked hoeing beets in the summer, never
did I run into one of my school classmates(who were all white) and say
'hey, you're hoeing beets this summer too'.
Ronald Reagan passed the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986
which gave amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants, including my
family.
Bad apples are everywhere. I first realized that hoeing beets wasn't
for me at the tender age of 7. Most 6, 7 year olds now are still
learning to be potty trained. Hoeing beets every summer instilled in me
a very strong, hard, work ethic that is still strong today.
Most people that are against amnesty for illegal immigrants have no
clue what poverty is. Older folks might have an idea of what it is to
live in poverty(Depression). But even then, the government supplied
rations. People in Mexico are either rich or poor. There isn't anything
in between. If you or your child is out of food, tough luck. In America,
you get food stamps.
Before my parent's immigrated to Grafton, our family of 6 lived in a
2 bedroom, concrete shack with an outhouse.
There are good and bad apples amongst all beings. I am the epitome
of the "American Dream." A house in Austin, TX, an apt. in SF, college
educated. Most people that cross the border illegally just want to be
able to have a roof under their heads, and not worry whether their
babies will have food for the week. I know that's the reason whymy
parent's made it to Grafton, ND and why they're still there.
'La Migra' wasn't as prominent in ND as it was in TX, CA or the
other southern states that border Mexico. Additionally, there was plenty
of agricultural work for them. Many of the area farmers turned a blind
eye to the fact that they were illegal. They wanted their sugar beet
fields thinned and weeded for $22/acre and they neededto complete
potato harvest for $7/hr.They didn't care if you were an 'illegal
alien' or a martian from outer space! They needed the work done for
cheap.
People complain so much about gas being so expensive at $3.80 in
SF. I'm sure there would be riots if all the illegal immigrants were
ousted out of the country and people had to pay $3 for a tomato, $4 for
a head of lettuce, $2 for an orange. What would CA farmers do? What
would Grafton, NDfarmershave done without the help of those same
immigrants who hoed their fields for $22/acre?
If you'd like a much better perspective about the impact illegal
immigrants have on this country and the U.S economy. I recommend
watching "A Day Without A Mexican".
Thank you for your time.
Armando Serrano, Jr., BS, RRT
Respiratory Therapist
UCSF Medical Center
San Francisco, CA <<< Thanks a million for caing and sharing Armando. My
inferance certainly wasn't that the bank robbers were illegal
immigrants. Rather that the act of robbing a bank is also an illegal
act.
==============================
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.
Grafton, ND
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