FRYERS — Frying Abelskiver at Clarks Grove Baptist Church are, from left, Tina Leeman, Nancy Anderson, Kristy Thompson and Dawn Loverink. (Star Eagle photo by Kathy Paulsen)
By KATHY PAULSEN
Staff Writer
You know that spring is here when the Clarks Grove Fire Department members and auxiliary roll up their sleeves to roll out those little round balls called "Abelskiver."
The fire department first held this special Abelskiver supper back in the early 1950s. Area townsfolk continue to look forward to this annual event each year.
Though the population of Danes in this fair city may or may not have changed through the years, their desire for this tasty little Danish treat has never changed. For years, they've accompanied the pancakes and sausages at this outstanding fundraiser.
As fire chief Carl Anderson said, “We mix the dough to make the ‘dough’ that replenishes the firemen’s fund, which provides security for the public. This event helps raise funds for training sessions, supplies and fire fighting equipment.”
The present 25 volunteer firemen have completed a total of 286 years of service. Jack Jensen has been on the department for 45 years. Anderson has served 38 years, 30 as chief. Dale Leeman, assistant chief, has served eight years. Aaron McCornack, 9 years, and Marvin Thompson, 11 years, serve as captains. Ten department members serve as First Responders.
The remaining members of the department include: Logan Bietze, 1 year; Derek Brown, 10 years, Bill Christianson, 25; Bruce Hansen, 32; Dan Hansen, 4; Eric Heusinkveld, 2; Jim Jensen, 11; Rob Jensen, 7; Tom Jensen, 17; Kyle Ladlie, 2; Matt Monson, 3; Rob Pike, 2; Sterling Penning, 1; Al Pobanz, 1; Ryan Schoen, 3; Dan Smith, 2; Joe Smith, 2; Steve Thisius, 4; Frank Thompson, 16; and Bill Zezulka, 22. Kevin Hansen, who served 26 years, and Dan Williams, who served 11 years, have moved to the Auxiliary.
The reputation of these volunteer firemen and first responders depends not only on the loyal participants, but the best equipment they can afford. The community knows that and are well represented in their quest for good food too. Just say the word "Abelskiver," and it puts a smile on their faces, and here they come to enjoy eating and renewing old friendships.
This two-fold event says "Thank you" in the nicest way. Those who attend this traditional event say thank you to those who voluntarily serve on the fire department and the hard-working auxiliary. The fire department says thank you not only to the people of Clarks Grove, but to the people of the surrounding areas. The community response has been outstanding. More than 500 people were served and $4,100 was raised.
Once again, it was a very successful charitable event for everyone.
