Whatever Comes To Mind (268)
The amount of money collected in Geneva for cancer research is more than impressive.
But it doesn’t tell you about all the other things that go on you might not know about. Many people see the dollars but overlook the many other great accomplishments.
During the Geneva Cancer Run group’s presentation the first weekend of the Geneva Cancer Auction, DeeAnn Randall gave a brief summary of some of the things done by the local motorcycle group, in addition to donating money for research.
The motorcycle group has held the Geneva Cancer Run on the second Saturday in June for several years and they have accomplished many great things. They also know there is still a lot of work yet to do. DeeAnn said their mission is to fight cancer in different ways. Research and treatments are needed, but love and compassion are needed as well.
Several members in the group visit people going through treatment. Cash gifts have also been given to help people with whatever their needs are during difficult times.
In 2015 they visited a young mom raised in Geneva, as well as visited a 6-year-old boy in Blooming Prairie, where they discussed a five-year plan with his mother. They also visited a 60-year-old mom/grandma in Owatonna who found out she had cancer in September. She went directly to hospice and passed away in December.
They visited a dad of three who was attending a wrestling meet in Austin in which his sons were participating. The dad recently learned he only had two months to live.
They visited a mom/grandma, who is also a nurse’s aid in Waltham. She fought cancer for five years and only had a week to a month to live.
They helped a family who was hospicing their dad. The man moved in with his son in rural Lyle three years ago, knowing there was no cure. His sister, DeeAnn’s best friend, passed away at the young age of 40. He became like a big brother to DeeAnn after her older brother had been killed. Sadly, the man passed away in November.
DeeAnn shared with those gathered at the Geneva Cancer Auction that when they visit people like those mentioned earlier, they see there is a lot of work yet to do to find a cure for this dreaded disease so they continue to do what they can. Sometimes those visits are worth a whole lot more than any amount of money that can be raised or given.
She said they learn about people who need help by word of mouth and hope that if there are others are struggling, people will let them know. The local motorcycle group is on Facebook, so people can contact them if they know of someone who is struggling. Or people can pass along information to any of the people who are part of the Geneva cancer group.
DeeAnn also thanked many people who help the local group make each motorcycle run successful. Many people volunteer to help, including local fire departments and law enforcement. Others donate and serve food at the many different stops the cyclists make along the way. Others donate items for the silent auctions, people provide music at the conclusion of the run. Many who see the group and learn what the motorcycle run is all about also provide donations for the cause.
She announced that the Geneva Cancer Run was donating $2,000 to the Geneva Cancer Auction in addition to what they had already given.
DeeAnn concluded her presentation to the many people who were gathered for the Geneva Cancer Auction with, “God bless you for everything you do to fight this dreaded disease of cancer.”
People helping people, that is what it is all about!
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Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented that they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us.
Also, if you have an idea for a story that you think would be of interest to our readers, please contact me.
If you have birthdays and anniversaries you would like to include, or news to share, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035; or telephone, 507-256-4405.
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Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, January 21st: Cooper Routh, his 5th, Joshua Dobberstien and Gerald Wobshcall
• Friday, January 22nd: Reese Hendrickson, Taylor Lunning, Christian Sletten, Tom Haried, Lyle Shaunce, Barbara Van Gorkom, Jeff Miller, Heather Sargent
• Saturday, January 23rd: Eugene Worke, "Emeritus" Bob Hanson, Eugene Cornelius, Rodney Sorenson, Dean Broitzman, Garnet Folie, Jeff Miller, Chris Paulson
• Sunday, January 24th: Morgan Sophia Luhring, her 11th; Renee Polzin, Greg Menefee, Mary Cunningham, Trevor Tracy
• Monday, January 25th: Calvin Thomas VanderStoep, his 7th; Sophia Mabel Olivia Mrotz, his 15th; Max Thomas Powers Brekke, his 9th; Emma Meiners, her 8th; Paula Olson, Vernon Simonson, Lana Thompsen, Troy Phagan, Ladawn Hatch
• Tuesday, January 26th: Andilynn Leigh Knudson, her 7th; Russell Nelson, Bonnie Peterson, Pat Reese Ceplecha, Linda Oldenburg, Angela Borchert, Donna Borchert Knudson, Amanda Abel
• Wednesday, January 27th: Anna Mae Lee, Jon Berg, Linda Davis, Nancy Ingvaldson, Paul Larkin, Keegan Brighton, Myrtle Peterson, Ken & Waynette Peterson, Bruce & Rose Ann Kubicek
• Thursday, January 28th: Brian Brekke, Kevin Stieglbauer, Kalei Wilson, Caleb Brocker, Ruth Paulson, Denise McGowan, Rachel Schei, Lona Berg
• Friday, January 29th: Molly Jo Wayne, her 8th, Jalen Aaseth, Rick Seath, Andrea (Hanson) Carter, George Dettman, his 86th, Kim (Harpel) Johnson, Zenobia Haberman, Stephanie Jensen
• Saturday, January 30th: Allison Grunwald, Renae Wallace, Trudy Nelson, Cody Boverhuis, Dennis Jensen, Jeanette Fetterly, Michael Robinson, Scott Morreim, Wally Wobschall, Missy (Wayne) & Sean Engel, their 7th, Paul & Diane Stollard
Let the good times carry you away on your special day!
We recently started a new year, and when a new year is upon us, many of us try and adopt New Year’s resolutions.
I realize that 13 days of the new year are already behind us, but I recently learned something from Mayo Clinic doctors I feel is an important thing we all need to start doing. We need to drink more water.
Remember when we started carrying a bottle of water with us wherever we went? It may have been a fad back then, but it has been determined it is an important thing that we all need to do.
A cardiologist at Mayo Clinic has determined that heart attacks can be triggered by dehydration. It is important for each and every one of us to start carrying a water bottle with us wherever we go. Many people carry liquids other than water, which is not the same thing. Good, clean water is what our bodies need.
Even though many folks do not want to drink anything before they go to bed because they will have to get up during the night to use the restroom, it is important that they start doing just that.
Drinking one glass of water before bed helps people avoid stokes or heart attacks!
I am sure that many of you wonder why you need to urinate so much at night time.
If you ask your cardiac doctor he will tell you that gravity holds water in the lower part of your body when you are upright. That is why your legs may swell.
When you lie down, the lower part of your body is level with your kidneys, which makes it easier for your kidneys to remove the water, which contains toxins, from your body.
Believe it or not, there is a correct time to drink water. The cardiac specialists have determined that drinking water at a certain time maximizes its effectiveness on our bodies.
We should start drinking two glasses of water after we wake up in the morning. That water helps activate our internal organs.
We should also drink one glass of water 30 minutes before meals. That glass of water helps the digestion of the food we eat.
We should also drink one glass of water before taking a shower or a bath. It helps lower blood pressure.
We should also drink one glass of water before going to bed. That glass of water before bed not only helps our bodies avoid strokes or heart attacks, but it also helps prevent leg cramps.
I know that I used to complain about having to get up during the night to go to the bathroom, but I won’t complain anymore. If drinking a glass of water before I go to bed will help me avoid suffering a stroke or heart attack, I will do it and I hope that you will too!
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Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented that they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us.
Also, if you have an idea for a story that you think would be of interest to our readers, please contact me.
If you have birthdays and anniversaries you would like to include, or news to share, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035; or telephone, 507-256-4405.
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Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, January 14th: Brooke Sorenson Krohn, Darla Hagen Matthees, Christine Hanson, Skyler Cromwell Lembke, Jenna Marie Abbott, Mark Langlie, Ryan & Kerri Wagner
• Friday, January 15th: Steve Bailey, Paul Christensen, Emily Crabtree, Angela Borchert, Brian Farr
• Saturday, January 16th: Carter Howard Hanson, Kiley Beenken, Craig Bailey, Remi Wayne, Joshua Crabtree, Joni Groth, Jeff Kaplan, Tracy Tracy, Melissa Wagner, Emily Bedker, Tena Bryce, Jeremy Anderson
• Sunrday, January 17th: Ava Elizabeth Schember, her 8th; Blake Michael Born/Norday, Don Anderson, Jan Bartsch, Annette Busho, LuAnn Johnson Prescher, David Strenge, Mike Peterson, Brayden Broitzman, Kayley Camerer
• Monday, January 18th: Madilyn Hamilton, Deb Bohnoff, Todd Holland, Julie Bunn Hunt, Annie Miller, Tabatha Miller, Mark Misgen, Vicki Babb, Ruth Neidermeier, Garret Schley & Ellie Schley
• Tuesday, January 19th: Brian Wayne, Laura (Otterson) Ortiz, Dennis Grunwald, Steve Jon Christensen, Barb Wayne Heyer, Kent Johnson, Thomas Kasper, Francis Misgen, Peter Spande, Dick Ewing, Dick & Laurie Swift
• Wednesday, January 20th: Brentson Lange, Jim Krause, Marc Nelson, Jenna Nicole Cooper, Pastor Alvin Cooper, Anthony Thostenson, Alicia Lizaazo,
• Thursday, January 21st: Cooper Routh, his 5th, Joshua Dobberstein and Gerald Wobshcall
• Friday, January 22nd: Reese Hendrickson, Taylor Lunning, Christian Sletten, Tom Haried, Lyle Shaunce, Barbara Van Gorkom, Jeff Miller, Heather Sargent
• Saturday, January 23rd: Eugene Worke, "Emeritus" Bob Hanson, Eugene Cornelius, Rodney Sorenson, Dean Broitzman, Garnet Folie, Jeff Miller, Chris Paulson
• Sunday, January 24th: Morgan Sophia Luhring, her 10th; Renee Polzin, Greg Menefee, Mary Cunningham, Trevor Tracy
• Monday, January 25th: Calvin Thomas VanderStoep, his 6th; Sophia Mabel Olivia Mrotz, Max Thomas Powers Brekke, his 7th; Emma Meiners, her 7th; Paula Olson, Vernon Simonson, Lana Thompsen, Troy Phagan, Ladawn Hatch
May your special day be a happy memory and tomorrow a bright new promise.
Another Christmas has come and gone. I hope you had a very blessed holiday with your family and friends.
When I look across the wide expanse of untouched white snow that covers our backyard, I am reminded of the story, "Stones in the River," only my story would have to be titled, "Squirrel Tracks in the Snow." It was really interesting watching the squirrels running here and there, tree to tree and up and down the branches. I wonder how many miles they travel in a day.
The December snow we received this year provided a beautiful layer of the white stuff just in time for those who wanted a white Christmas. It looks like everybody got their wish. There was just enough snow to cover the ground but not enough to prevent most people from reaching their Christmas destinations.
Christmas provides special events for people of all ages, but I believe that Christmas is for the children.
My mother and nephew, Kade, were able to spend Christmas Day with my nephew, Cameron, and his family this year. How can we know what children, especially babies so young, really know what it is all about? Remarkable, or so it would seem.
My mother commented that the presents under the tree were just that until it was time for opening. Like quicksilver, nine-month-old Emma dove into the first gift she was given, tearing the paper from it.
Of course, to kids I think that the wrapping paper is always the best part but it is amazing how children so young seem to know what things are all about.
Wondering what to get the wee ones for gifts is always a dilemma. It is a funny thing. The big things can be ignored, but the little ones are what they look to first. Emma’s absolute favorite gift she received was the plastic spoon still in the plastic wrapper that was included in the Fruit Loops box. My mother said that Emma examined it like it was a piece of gold.
Her uncle Kade, who has a knack for finding the unusual, had gotten Emma a fuzzy rocking horse, complete with sound effects. A little too big for her yet, but when she was put on the back of the horse she instinctively clasped her little legs of hers around it like someone from the royal guard or a like a jockey would. Children are unbelievable. If we only knew what they know.
Christmas is such a delicate day. There is so much feeling. It gets complicated when families have to divide or share the holidays with both sides of the family. And if that isn’t bad enough, there comes a time when families want, or need, to have their “own” Christmas, in their own homes. It’s hard on grandparents who don’t know which way to turn and would like to be part of all the family celebrations, which makes things bittersweet.
May you have the happiness of simple pleasures at the holidays and all through the year. Christmas as a holiday is past. But let not your hearts forget to leave room for the living Christ every day.
I am thrilled with the Christmas cards received each year and now many of them come with pictures. Yes, even if we just saw them a day or two before. It is nice to stay in touch, and of course letters updating the family goings on serve to remind the sender of the many things that have taken place over the past year. How can so many things take place in one year’s time?
Of course it is good to have been busy, but maybe we need to set aside time to meditate and rest our bodies and minds. You need to take care of yourself, not just for your own good but for your family’s as well. When you think, "I can do this," think of what it would do to your family if you let stress get the better of you.
With each passing year, grow stronger, grow wiser, and grow richer in spirit. May the year ahead be filled with new discoveries!
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Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented that they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us.
Also, if you have an idea for a story that you think would be of interest to our readers, please contact me.
If you have birthdays and anniversaries you would like to include, or news to share, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035; or telephone, 507-256-4405.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, January 7th: Rodney Peterson, Gary Ayers, Stacy Jensen Pirkl, Karina Thompson
• Friday, January 8th: (Elvis Presley) Cameron Schember, Mike Marcus, Terry Pelzl, Dan Reese, David Jensen, Ryan Benning, Jennifer Rechtzigel, Brandon Borchert, John & Melissa Marlin
• Saturday, January 9th: Melinda Hanson Talamanates, Lisa Dunn Wayne, Mark Lee, Adam Deml, Jay Wangsness, Steve Vanden Heuvel, Becky Wayne Clark, Larry Jensen, Allen Dobberstein, Allan Swearingen, Dan & Lavonne Nelson
• Sunday, January 10th: Sue Hunnicutt, Martha Jacobson, Gary Nelson, Robert & Eleanor Leiser
• Monday, January 11th: Melissa Farr, Rick Hanson, Deb Robertson Hare, Brad Nelson, Kelly Reichl, Dennis & Barb Grunwald
• Tuesday, January 12th: Heather Mattson Johnson, Macy Misgen, Albert Diaz, Barry Jepson, Cindy Farner, Brian Milan, Chris Wilker
• Wednesday, January 13th: Lacey & Brad Grutzik, 2013, Julia Anne Marlin, Melonie Crabtree, Rita Sletten Nelson, Diane Lee, Haley Butler, Tracy Utpadel, Jay Brown, John Olson, Tracy Bergerson, Bruce Haberman, Gregory David, Jack & Gloria Jensen
• Thursday, January 14th: Brooke Sorenson Krohn, Darla Hagen Matthees, Christine Hanson, Skyler Cromwell Lembke, Jenna Marie Abbott, Mark Langlie, Ryan & Kerri Wagner
Life is a journey we begin each day. Here’s wishing that each new day is happier than the day before. Have a great day!
Surprise somebody. Call someone. Send a card and make their day. Little things mean a lot.
It is for the birds.
My nephew Kade wanted to have a dog in the house but was told no, as it was felt the dog would be hazardous for people who don’t see well and have difficulties getting around at times, so he had to settle for something else to keep him company.
His grandma had birds at one time and his great grandma did too. Granted, they were canaries, finches or parakeets as there weren’t too many exotic birds around back then.
Kade acquired two love birds, which originated from the Phoenix, Arizona area, which coincidently is where Kade’s mother now lives. One came from a lady who didn’t want to part with it but needed to. The second bird was a gift from his stepfather, Mike, who thought the bird needed a friend. Needless to say, he spent big bucks at a local pet store for the mate. They were soul mates from the start. The love birds now have four eggs in their cozy little home and Kade is anxiously awaiting to see if they bear “fruit.”
Kade also found a couple more birds that sing duets together. A gentlemen who discovered he was allergic to his birds offered them to Kade. Ricky, the cockatiel, is about 15 years old, has lost his sight, but remains quite active. Georgie, the colorful little Parentles, which is related to the love birds, had originally come all the way from Florida. The bird is like a clown at a circus, always ready to entertain.
Having these birds in the house brings back happy memories of Grandma’s birds who sang so sweetly. Be careful though. Petting these birds can bring on “pecking” with beaks as tough and sharp as a pliers.
That made for four new residents in the Schember household. Kade later learned that a lady from Faribault no long wanted her parakeet, so “Peep” has also joined the family. My dad would have said, “We need to build a grain elevator to feed all of these darn birds,” but he isn’t here. Kade does figure to stop at five – maybe!
Needless to say, they provide a variety of music from all the chirping. The birds also perform acrobatic stunts until it is time to put the cover over their cages at night.
Whoever said, “You dirty bird,” knew what he was talking about as these birds shed feathers and throw seeds from their cages which needs to be vacuumed up every night. Kade can’t resist “clucking” a little bird talk every time he passes by their cages.
Somewhere in my mother’s collection of unique items, Kade found a clock that used to “chirp” on the hour. A fresh new battery got the birds back singing happy songs again. The clock sings every hour on the hour so there are many birds singing in the house.
Supposedly the birds were going eliminate the desire for a dog, which they did, but Kade was recently called upon to find a dog for his friend Teresa. Kade learned there was a dog available in Iowa so he went on a four-hour trip to pick up Daisy Mae, a registered beagle. The dog’s new master, who had lost his previous dog to old age, fell in love with Daisy Mae and they became the best of friends. John of course had to buy his new “kid” some toys for Christmas, but Daisy Mae likes the gift of the loving arms of her master around her best.
Meanwhile, Grandma Carole says, “No alligator or pythons please.” Enough is enough!
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Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented that they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us.
Also, if you have an idea for a story that you think would be of interest to our readers, please contact me.
If you have birthdays and anniversaries you would like to include, or news to share, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035; or telephone, 507-256-4405.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, December 31st: New Year’s Eve! Bailey Joy Ihrke, Bree Olivia Ihrke, Larry Paulsen, Dean Pospesel, Lynne Flor, Brent Wiersma, Brent Worrell, Isabelle Wayne, Dorothy & Adrian Kilian, Greg & Cindy Oswald, Larry & Elaine Howell
• Friday, January 1st: Happy New Year! Ross Aronson, Jerry Seath, Larry Schwartz, Amanda Beach, Lois & Duane Aitchison
• Saturday, January 2nd: Grace Jolie Wangen, Brian Bedney, Jay Crabtree, Mark Dobberstein, David Lageson, Brenda Wayne, Aaron Nelson, John & Lorraine Lent, Kelsey (Wayne) & Matt Duncomb
• Sunday, January 3rd: Jerret Utpadel, Andrea Avery, Stan Nelson
• Monday, January 4th: Sophie Elizabeth Stork, Kelsey Christensen, Delphine Pence, Jeff Cornelius, Dennis Hill, Monty Mrotz, Jeremy Nelson, Corey Johnson, John Butler
• Tuesday, January 5th: Olivia Pauline Christopherson, Devon Mark Born, Pat Simon King, Warren Kelly, Randy Paulson, Jay Neitzel, Amy Kasper, Nash Petranek, Melinda & Ray Talamantes
• Wednesday, January 6th: Mallory Anna Schlinger, Marianne Christensen, Kevin Jensen, Tammy Busho, Todd Nelson
• Thursday, January 7th: Rodney Peterson, Gary Ayers, Stacy Jensen Pirkl, Karina Thompson
• Friday, January 8th: (Elvis Presley) Cameron Schember, Mike Marcus, Terry Pelzl, Dan Reese, David Jensen, Ryan Benning, Jennifer Rechtzigel, Brandon Borchert, John & Melissa Marlin
• Saturday, January 9th: Melinda Hanson Talamanates, Lisa Dunn Wayne, Mark Lee, Adam Deml, Jay Wangsness, Steve Vanden Heuvel, Becky Wayne Clark, Larry Jensen, Allen Dobberstein, Allan Swearingen, Dan & Lavonne Nelson
With each passing year, grow stronger, grow wiser, and grow richer in spirit. May the year ahead be filled with new discoveries!
Are the stockings hung, gifts bought and wrapped, cards all written, stamped and mailed, concerts and programs attended and menus planned?
It is really a busy time with some confusion thrown in besides.
Ready or not, it is here. There are times one can feel so overwhelmed by the problems that surround us that it is hard to deal with it all. This time leading up to Christmas, when we wait and watch with anticipation for the birth of Jesus, is so very important to our lives.
We’ve heard the story before, but we need to hear it again and again: the hope, the promise of God being born into our midst. I hope that you will take time during this Christmas holiday to worship together with your family and friends.
Did you leave time to meditate on the birth of the Christ Child, the greatest gift of all? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have this holy child, knowing there would be a day when he would be sacrificed for us?
As we wait and watch and ponder the miracle of God being born into human flesh in the person of Jesus Christ, let us keep our eyes open for the tiny, yet miraculous ways God continues to be born in our midst.
We need to thank our Lord for all his blessings, His love and for a fine family, a roof over our heads, that we have a good place to sleep, that there is food on our table, clothes on our backs and shoes on or feet.
We also need to thank our Lord for giving us the best gift we could ever receive.
We are reminded that Christmas can last more than one day, that the spirit and magic of the season can thrive all the time. Peace, joy, and goodwill are not seasonal; they are life-sustaining, life-enhancing, hopeful words that should be spoken, sung, and practiced all the months of the year.
As you go about these final days leading up to Christmas, may you be surprised and delighted by the ways in which Jesus – God’s love made fresh – shows up in your midst every single day. It may be in the people you meet, it may be through your words of encouragement and random acts of kindness for another.
Thank you Lord for giving us the best gift we could ever receive.
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Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented that they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us.
Also, if you have an idea for a story that you think would be of interest to our readers, please contact me.
If you have birthdays and anniversaries you would like to include, or news to share, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035; or telephone, 507-256-4405.
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This week’s birthdays and anniversaries include:
• Thurday, December 24th: Christmas Eve! Barbara Mrotz, Brooke Reese, Craig Paulsen, Anna Louise Fuerniss, Susan Oolman
• Friday, December 25th: Merry Christmas! Mitchel Gale Evans, Krista Lee Hardyman, Tom Reitveld, Makenzie Butler
• Saturday December 26th: Nadine Strenge, Tom Hanson, Joshua Kasper, Jill Peterson Otterbein, Nicklas Hanson
• Sunday, December 27th: Sue Bailey Billbray, Colette Hemingway Moudy, Mikkel Iverson, Jamie Hagen, Scott Christensen, Carly Titus, Stacy Osmundson Titus, Ron Peterson, Shannon Peterson Pederson, Brad Bothum
• Monday, December 28th: Hope Mikesell, Chad Toft, Tyler Titus, Charlie Marlin, Merrill Bunn, Laura & John Ortiz, Neil & Ellen Pence
• Tuesday, December 29th: Maxx Greyson Richards, Maya Grace Richards, Gary Hunnicutt, Seth David Petranek, Brent Born, Craig Haberman, Darlene Underland, Benjamin Paulson, Whitey & LaJune Hagen, Amy & Joe Louks
• Wednesday, December 30th: Anita Casterton, Matt Christensen, Ryan Schrodt, Jane Simon, Jim Dobberstein, Gladys Peterson, Mark & Gail Skroch, David & Arianna Arends, Kyile & Rachel Aase
• Thursday, December 31st: New Years Eve! Bailey Joy Ihrke, Bree Olivia Ihrke, Larry Paulsen, Dean Pospesel, Lynne Flor, Brent Wiersma, Brent Worrell, Isabelle Wayne, Dorothy & Adrian Kilian, Greg & Cindy Oswald, Larry & Elaine Howell
• Friday, January 1st: Happy New Year! Ross Aronson, Jerry Seath, Larry Schwartz, Amanda Beach, Lois & Duane Aitchison
• Saturday, January 2nd: Grace Jolie Wangen, Brian Bedney, Jay Crabtree, Mark Dobberstein, David Lageson, Brenda Wayne, Aaron Nelson, John & Lorraine Lent, Kelsey (Wayne) & Matt Duncomb
With each passing yer, grow stronger, grow wisher and grow richer in spirit. May the year ahead be filled with new discoveries!
If you haven’t been to one of the Mayo Clinics for a time, lucky you. Mayo is an interesting place, but it has really grown over the years, which in some regards is good, and in others, not so good.
Doctors today are very different than they were in back those olden days. They are definitely not like the days of Dr. Ertel in Ellendale or Dr. Olds in New Richland. The caliber of doctors today is really different, as can be expected. They may have more knowledge, assistance and “machinery” to help with the evaluations, but they don’t seem to have that “touch” or practical advice we were once used to.
They are busy, as you would expect, but sometimes I feel they are so busy, I feel like a number instead of a person, and they don’t, or can’t, give their patients the attention that they sometimes need.
That is not to say they aren’t kind and friendly; it just isn’t like it used to be.
Another thought. We have had such a nice fall and I appreciate it, but will we be ready to get accustomed to our Minnesota weather when the tough stuff hits? I know that our recent snowfall required us to quickly deal with adverse road conditions.
Speaking of road, do the people who throw their trash by the roadside have spotless homes? Maybe they do, as they throw their garbage along the roads. People need to start carrying a small trash bag in their cars, vans and trucks to hold their trash until they are able to get to the next garbage can where they can dump it. To me, there is nothing I hate more than to see all the garbage that is thrown out car windows.
I can handle a dripping ice cream cone being tossed if it is going to make a mess in your vehicle, but I can’t handle all the pop and beer cans, sandwich wrappers, etc.
And another thought. It was dark and raining. I am not fond of night driving, and really appreciate the reflection of light that comes off the road signs. They are a welcome sight. Of course if you look beyond the dark and rain there are usually little lights reflecting, like signals for aircraft warning us to beware.
Of course the red lights from the windmills in our area can make you giggle if you think of them as a row of dancers in an old Western.
Is it just me, or does it seem like bad weather seems to tempt drivers to driver faster, like they are in a hurry to get out of the weather? It also seems like bad weather draws folks to town for supplies, or is it maybe because there is nothing better to do so we want to make the best of it?
Much of the older generation learned over the years to "lay up" supplies for bad weather as they experienced the difficulties of not being able to leave their homes for days on end when the weather turned bad. Back then they didn't have the big snowplows that could remove all the snow off the roads like we do now.
On to another thought. I recall when Lynda Jensen, who grew up in Geneva, was in grade school. She would only eat “real” peanut butter. She ground the peanuts herself and didn’t see a need to add extra “lard” or shortening to it. Today, we buy it “natural” with no added ingredients off the grocery store shelf. My mother chooses to eat it that way because she knows it is better for her. But she said something seems to be missing. The salt maybe? Remember two tablespoons of peanut butter is equal to as much in meat in regards to protein. Eating peanut butter for breakfast is a good way to start your day.
Popcorn is a whole grain product. But there still are things we need to watch out for, like too many calories from added ingredients such as salt and butter. Air popped popcorn is best. Most people think microwave popcorn is better for them, but they fail to think about the chemicals used in the construction of the bag that “comes alive” when heated.
Another good thought. If we shouldn’t have it, we shouldn’t buy it. Surprising how short our memory can be if we just walk away. It is less tempting for us if the goodies aren't on hand. Yes, it can be embarrassing if you have unexpected company stop by and there is nothing to serve along with coffee. Think of it as doing them a favor. You can serve fruit, or crackers and cheese.
Develop new habits when the kids get to a certain stage and you spend too much time in the toy departments. Stop and think about whom you are really shopping for. Admit it is a fascinating adventure. There is just about everything a child could imagine and then some, but much of the appeal is for the adults.
It is amazing to hear kids say, “No, I don’t need that,” how they use more common sense than we believe or are they thinking more toys and gadgets means more things they will need to clean up in their rooms. There are so many cute things out there, but how long does the attraction really last. "Out of sight, out of mind," as the saying goes.
It is surprising how much kids look alike, especially when they have their noses in their phones or tablets. I wonder if you walked away and someone else took your place if they would realize it? Is it possible to get calluses or tendentious in one’s finger from operating all those newfangled items of communication. Handy gadgets are fun, but some leave things lacking because of them. Some kids are even finding it difficult to talk one to one!
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Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented that they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us.
Also, if you have an idea for a story that you think would be of interest to our readers, please contact me.
If you have birthdays and anniversaries you would like to include, or news to share, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035; or telephone, 507-256-4405.
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Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, December 17th: Zachary Tracy, Becky Edwards, Gretta Lageson, Tanya Blouin, Cheryl Cooper, Jack DeRaad, Joel Davis, Alex Edward LaFave, Keith & Leigh Ann Wayne, Lyle & Helen Swearingen, Bruce & Faye Thompson
• Friday, December 18th: Mary Torgerson, Catherine Suzanne Olson, Scott Lang, Chris O'Byrne, Margaret (Mugsy) Swearingen, Gavyn Tlamka
• Saturday, December 19th: LaJune Hagen, Kathy Peterson, Jerry Thompson, Sheryl Tracy, Loren Haroldson, Cheryl Utpadel, James & Barb Bremmer, Chris & Jennifer Paulson, Jerry & Bev White
• Sunday, December 20th: Corlyn Paulsen, Kyle Johnson, Laurie Swift, Deb Whelan, Odean & Andrea Johnson
• Monday, December 21st: Audriene Nelson, Nancy Rich, Liz Wangsness, Darin Rhodes, Brandon Hagen, Dave & Tammy Peterson, Duane & Cheryl Lembke
• Tuesday, December 22nd: Destiny Rita Hill, David Arends, Pam Cook, Gary Dobberstein, Tracy Dulas, Julie Jensen Wichman, Ed Nelson, Nikki Toft Schumaker, Barbara Zamora, Bryce Hanson, Jamie Jensen
• Wednesday, December 23rd: Vicki Richards, Jonika Otto Wing, Jess Dunlap, Paitin DuBois, Julie Cornelius, Keith Severson, Carol Schultz, Sophia Swift, Burt & Carla Scripture
May your find joy and pleasure all around you on your special day!
On my way to our Hanson Thanksgiving gathering, some thoughts crossed my mind.
I wondered about how many people would be sitting home alone on the holiday. Sometimes it is a blessing to enjoy solitude – a time to be with yourself. What better company?
Otherwise, if you know of someone who may have to spend holidays alone, a note from a friend is of value. It isn’t always what you say, it is how you say it.
Thanksgiving is a time for thinking and thanking and realizing another year is almost past – and wonder what we did with it. Looking back, it seems so long ago. Looking forward, we wonder what surprises and great things may come our way. Make each day a blessing for we never know when they will end. Remember to take good care of you. So many people depend on your existence.
The Clarks Grove historical group worked hard to establish a building to exhibit artifacts from the past. As you prepare for Christmas and the New Year before us, don’t forget to visit or contribute to the display. A visit over the Christmas holiday coud be added as a gift for your children or grandchildren.
The used book store that was established in the former Clarks Grove State Bank building has closed. Our loss. The group put their remaining inventory of books up for sale real cheap before they had to close the doors. It has been traumatic for me to see the closing of the bank and now this, though I was negligent in giving it more attention. There has been some thought that they may reopen later in Albert Lea. We sure hope so. There are a lot of good things that can be learned and enjoyed from reading books.
Another thought came to mind.
What hypocrites we are. We choose to read the articles in magazines that tell us to lose weight and how bad some things are for us, and then we turn the page to find pictures of all the goodies we should avoid.
A doctor once said that moderation and the amount we eat makes a difference no matter what we eat or drink. You’ll feel better if you feel satisfied, not stuffed. It isn’t that there isn’t good food out there to eat such as raw fruits and vegetables without all the creamy sauces. We forget or choose to eat what we like and enjoy, even if it is not good for us.
It is important for us to remember only to eat as much as we really need. It is a good idea to eat small bites, especially meat, and chew them thoroughly.
And another thought comes to mind.
I hope many people from our area plan to join their friends at Community Lutheran for the organ recital planned for Sunday, December 13, which will share music played on their new organ. This will be a special Christmas gift for all.
In honor of the occasion, a Christmas silent auction is being planned. Items new or slightly used and Christmas themed in nature will be included in the auction, which will add proceeds for the organ fund. Items may include crafts, stockings filled with items, especially for the little ones, baskets of Christmas items, plants, cookies, pies, bars, rolls or homemade breads. I guess one can say the ideas are endless. Items, with the exception of fresh baked items, can be dropped off in fellowship hall anytime now through the 9th of December.
The church is more than happy to take any monetary donations towards the organ fund at any time. Please designate that your gift is for the Organ Fund.
The silent auction will begin following the morning worship service, which begins at 9:30, and the concert begins at 2 p.m. It will be fascinating to hear all the great music to come from this new organ.
Great music, special Christmas items you won’t find in a store, a chance to be with a lot of people you might not get a chance to visit with during the holidays, who could ask for more? Mark your calendars. You won’t want to miss this special occasion.
And we can’t forget Santa. Santa is scheduled to arrive in Geneva on Saturday, December 19 at 2. Bingo will be called starting at 1.
Speaking of gifts, several local churches hold family-type gatherings where food and fellowship is shared. First Baptist Church in Clarks Grove has long had a tradition of Wednesday night “Family Nights” where food and fellowship is shared with friends and neighbors.
Ellendale United Methodist Church has also started serving family dinners the first Sunday of the month following their morning worship services.
Nowhere in the Bible does it specify that there were only three wise men.
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented that they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us.
Also, if you have an idea for a story that you think would be of interest to our readers, please contact me.
If you have birthdays and anniversaries you would like to include, or news to share, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035; or telephone, 507-256-4405.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, December 10th: Cody Dobberstein, Steve Lee, Valerie Otterson, Karla Osmundson, Art DeNeui, Phillip Olsen, Scott & Melonie Crabtree
• Friday, December 11th, Jane Nordhorn Allen, Justin Hove, Geoffrey Ramaker, Marty Shultz, Rick Johnson, Janice Paulsen, Beth Scripture Klucksen, Jake Thompson, Theresa Van Ravenhorst, Larry & Emily Otto
• Saturday, December 12th: Torie Richards, Jean Groth, Addison Gayle Lyman, Bernard Falksen, Allen Paulsen, Matthew Butler, Barbara Lageson, Judith Johnson Tetzloff, Kim Seath, Christopher Nelson, Mark & Cheryl Johnson
• Sunday, December 13th: Deb Bunn, Dan Carroll, Jake Pence, Eleanor Koster, Spencer Wayne, Maks Robert Edward Hanson, Michael Kelly, Mike & Michelle Pterson, Candy & Darin Baker
• Monday, December 14th: Makenna Marie Smith, Alexander Jayce Quimby, Keith Bengston, Randy Lehmberg, Elizabeth Falksen Brockoff, MIchard Conroy, Wayne Reese, Tina VanRiper, Catherine Lageson, Jim Ladlie, Rich Krikava and Daryl & Peggy Radjenovich
• Tuesday, December 15th: Josh Otto, Jolene Sorenson, Brenda Burshem, Dustin Quimby, Maureen Bailey, Nancy Kelly, Travis Reichl
• Wednesday, December 16th: Abraham Groth, Angie Deml, Karen Zicafoose, David Brandt, Vicky Dobberstein, M. Carol Nelson, Peggy Radjenovich and Paul & Mary Groth
It is your special day. Take a break and celebrate.
Surprise somebody. Call someone. Send a card and make their day. Little things really do mean a lot.
When you see the big top going up in Geneva this weekend, it doesn't mean the Barnum and Bailey Circus is coming to town. But it is a circus in a way and a Bailey is involved.
Little did Judy Bailey Thompson realize when she cooked the first wild game and took it to Geneva Liquor Store all those years ago how her idea would grow to such proportions it went from a crock pot to a tent, a big tent which would hold the large amount of people who come year after year for the annual Wild Game Feed.
It isn't just local folks who turn out for this yearly event. A great number of out-of-towners and people from great distances call or write to check to be sure the wild game will be available to enjoy.
This is all food donated and prepared in many different ways from many different wild animals that have been fattened on grass-filled pastures and other natural foods like nuts and berries. It is about as organic as you could get.
So what is cooking in Geneva this weekend? Checking with Steve Bailey and that great crew of people who turn out year after year to help prepare all that wild game that has been donated, they will tell you that though there is ordinary food like potatoes and dressing, baked beans and tacos, to name a few, but the main attraction is the venison, alligator, fish, elk, buffalo, ducks, geese, pheasant, mourning doves, etc. You will just have to come to Geneva and see for yourself.
It is hard to comprehend the amount of food that plates can hold or stomachs either for that matter. And it is all free will donation.
We'll always thank Judy for that first Wild Game Feed and continue to thank her husband, Hank, and her boys for continuing the feed, along with some great friends who cook like you can't imagine.
“Good,” is what people say as the good stuff slides down. "I look forward to this day all year long," is something else you hear often as you see the crowd pile in to find row after row of picnic tables filled with hungry individuals. Otherwise it is standing room only. The tent overflows.
The "Gun Guys," David Thompson, Taff Worrell, Alex Beenken and Bruce Buboltz, to name a few, keep up the raffle for some 50 or more guns so everyone is entertained or rewarded by winning. After all, who wouldn’t want to buy tickets from the cute gals who are on hand to sell the raffle tickets for all the guns that will be available?
The 31st Annual Wild Game Feed will get underway at 10 on Saturday morning, Dec. 5 and that great selection of wild game will be ready to enjoy starting at 11 under the heated bog top. The food will continue until it is all gone, so you better make sure you get their early as you wouldn't want to miss the chance to enjoy all the different items.
Hope you see you all there!
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented that they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us.
Also, if you have an idea for a story that you think would be of interest to our readers, please contact me.
If you have birthdays and anniversaries you would like to include, or news to share, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035; or telephone, 507-256-4405.
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Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, December 3rd: Eric Degan, Ethan Fletcher Cornelius, Brian Van Ravenhorst
• Friday, December 4th: Sue Mattson, Jessica Shultz, Sandy Larson Russo, Sue Brown Asplund, Shawn Vangen Steffen, Jeff Kasper, Skylar Larson, Holly Pichner, Max Jensen, Casey & Jon Homuth
• Saturday, December 5th: Finnegan Fladger, Bodie Jaxon Newgard, Phyllis Hanson, Rick Aaseth, Rosalyn Johnson, Kathy Lee, Christian Conroy, Shannon Jensen, Kelsey Loverink, Ron Farner, Larry & Mary Richards
• Sunday, December 6th: Sharon Johnson, Rodger Hill, Katie Marlin, Tony Jackovitch, John Lerum, John Kaplan, Sue Klemmensen, Chris & Marie Wallace, Emily & Jeffrey O'Brien
• Monday, December 7th: Katie Olson, Tracy Holland, Sam Peterson, Angela Hensrud, Wanda Schwartz, Helen Schmidt, Kara & Eric Grant, Ron & Theresa Langlie, Dawn & Eric Degan
• Tuesday, December 8th: Kathy Glynn, Teri McDonald, Jeff Schei, Tracy Haddy, James Olsen, Mike Flugum, Meghan Baumann
• Wednesday, December 9th: Eva Buendorf, 2012; Carrisa Christensen, Paitan Janis Glynn, Al Paulson, Robert Robertson, Rusty Besco, Mark Ribbe, Tony Phillips, Courtney Thompson, Brian Strand, Chuck & Cynthia Crabtree, Steve & Terri Engel
May you find joy and pleasure all around you on your special day.
Isn’t it strange we just assume that everyone, everywhere knows the story of the birth of the Christ child? This isn’t so. There are still areas in the world where the story has not been told.
If you have an opportunity and like to read, try and find a copy of the book, “Seven Stories of Christmas Love” by Leo Buscaglia.
It intrigued me at first because it reminded me of my Grandmother Hanson, who always had room in her bed for her grandchildren, and how they loved it.
My grandmother used the time to talk and tell stories, but mostly it was a time of shared love. It was not unusual for her to have six, seven or even eight or more little ones in her bed, probably laid crosswise to accommodate them all. Back then there was no such thing as a king or queen size bed, so things were really tight.
The children are adults now and have children of their own, but they all remember Grandma and the times spent with her in her bed. It was an honor and a gift they always looked forward to and remembered.
Back to the story. Buscaglia was a professor who went beyond modern civilization into the green wilderness of Bali. He reminds us that Christmas can last more than one day of the year, and that the true spirit and magic of the season can be felt every day of the year.
The natives he encountered had never heard the Christmas Story. As he told the story they were spellbound by the tale and especially intrigued in the fact there was no room in the inn for the Christ Child.
Part of their culture was like my grandmother’s. The natives honored Buscaglia by inviting some of the people to share his bed. Nothing sexual about it, just the touch and warmth of others. Is that what Grandma shared?
The natives kept referring to the fact that there was no room for Jesus and his family to stay. We must not let that happen to our church families. There must always be room for our religion and it should be a honor.
Perhaps there is a story there. No, we don’t have to share our bed, but it could be a symbol that we could, or should, always share our lives in a loving way with those around us. We can share our love and feelings with those around us and always make room to add one more. There should always be room for more — more religion, more acts of kindness, more love for others, and more service to our Lord.
We should always have room in our life for God and all that He stands for! No room in the inn? Make room and glorify God.
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Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented that they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us. Also, if you have an idea for a story that you think would be of interest to our readers, please contact me.
If you have birthdays and anniversaries you would like to include, or news to share, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035; or telephone, 507-256-4405.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, November 26th: Darlene Krohnberg, Cody Christensen, Robert Gasner, Linda Stieglbauer, Drew Vangen, Ashley Bergerson, Al & Diane Lee, Jamie & Kate Cameron
• Friday, November 27th: Jack Kuchenbecker, Kyle Goslee, Olivia Rae Kohn, Paul Kasper, Cyrstal Spurr, Mike Draayer, Lorna Berg, Sandra Tonsing
• Saturday, November 28th: Quinn Lauren Wayne, Vicki Peterson, Jackie & Scott Miller
• Sunday, November 29th: Connie Smith, Dean Peterson, Emily Butler, La Vonna Ruhl, Christy & Tim Berry, Pastor Carrie & Dan McElfresh
• Monday, November 30th: Dan Mrotz, Lindsey Hagen, Lindsey Schlaak, Sophia Jepson, Eric Knudson, Norell Wood, Kellen Utpadel, David & Lizell Swearingen, Andy & Emily Butler
• Tuesday, December 1st: Ethan Elliot Marzoff, Kyle Anthony Neidermeier, Jim Cornelius, Brian Waage, Laurie Ellis, Teri Horan Finke, Barbara Wangsness
• Wednesday, December 2nd: Maryalice Hanson, Liam William Philip Abbott, Allura Danon Johnson, Leah Wayne, Allura Danon Johnson, Paige Sorenson, Lyle Paulson, Jean Richards Worrell, Helen Sawyer, Heidi Wangsness, Heather Peterson, Dale Schewe
• Thursday, December 3rd: Eric Degan, Ethan Fletcher Cornelius, Brian Van Ravenhorst
• Friday, December 4th: Sue Mattson, Jessica Shultz, Sandy Larson Russo, Sue Brown Asplund, Shawn Vangen Steffen, Jeff Kasper, Skylar Larson, Holly Pichner, Max Jensen, Casey & Jon Homuth
May you find joy and pleasure all around you on your special day. Thanksgiving, and every day, are days for "thanks giving."
The days continue to tick away. Before we know it Thanksgiving Day be here. Thanksgiving appears on our calendars as Nov. 25 this year, but I feel Thanksgiving day should be every day of the year. To be able to share this special day of food and fellowship with family and friends is something to be thankful for, but there is so much more. Every day isn't a holiday, but it is something to be thankful for.
Food, of course, is something to be thankful for, but maybe we need to think beyond filling our own bodies and think of those who don't have enough food to eat. Sometimes things happen and people just are not able to have the funds available to purchase the food needed to keep their bodies going.
Some people we will never be able to explain, but we can express why the things in our faith have been so important.
If everyone would donate just one item per month to their local food shelf programs, those shelves would be overflowing and they would be able to help provide much needed relief to those who struggle day to day to provide for their families with basic necessities. Just a dollar can grow in worth if donated to one of the charities that help feed the poor. The price of a soft drink or a cup of coffee could feed even more because food shelf and charity personal have ways of multiplying food resources.
It is the unselfish kindness of good people that help feed the hungry. We all should help care for the suffering and provide peace to others whether they are church people or not.
The Lord’s Prayer and the Ten Commandments are non-denominational, but the people who believe in them have a belief and a heart of love for their fellow man. Who can deny that miracles don't just happen? Some things can not be explained.
We may not always be faithful in talking to a higher power, but you can be sure that is the first conversation you will have when the need is there. God was there even when we aren't.
It is no surprise I get upset over those who try to take down our religious beliefs and remove significant messages from the God we worship because they don't believe the same way. To add insult to injury, some of these things have been here for a long time.
When I go to Mayo Clinic and look at the network of medical buildings — the largest non-profit in the world and world renown — I see how it grew from a few who were there after the disaster.
Yes, it may say "Mayo" on the label and they deserve the recognition, but we must remember to give thanks to the nuns who were there to care for the suffering, especially after the town was hit by a tornado oh so many years ago. Mercy comes from believers, not from those who make caustic remarks about the value of religion and the people who are a part of a church family and care for their fellow man. These are even "good people" who take things for granted not realizing there is always a need.
Sometime during the day when everything is over, take a little time to realize how blessed we really are. Thank God and appreciate all that we have been given. Make it truly a Thanksgiving day!
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Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, November 19th: Sidney Ellen Schultz, Kolby Dale Boverhuis, Deb Schmidt, Roger Dulas, Jennifer Kycek, Chanelle McCamish, Darrin Peterson, Mandi Wobschall, William Conley, LaShawn & Gretchen Ray, Jeff & Julie Cornelius
• Friday, November 20th: Chuck Pence, Howard Pence, Eric Simon, David A. Hanson, Angie Blouin Sikel, Dennis Blouin, Scott Brekke, Malinda Fennert, Alisha Waalkens, Heather Crabtree Krenke, Kristine Kelly, Rachel Nelson
• Saturday, November 21st: Paul Wallace, Angie Johnson, Paul Kasper, Desirae Farr, Cheryl Harpel, Greg Schimek, Leah Maddox Larson, Abby Underland, Dustin Burshem, Robin & Jan Jepson
• Sunday, November 22nd - Mallory Luhring, Whitney McCamish, Jodell Hanson, Keven Larson, Donna Maixner, Jane Tappe, David L. Hanson, Jason Peterson, Jacki Shadden, Elzo Peterson
• Monday, November 23rd: Amy Hunnicutt Kromminga, Lisa Holmes Rietsema, Margaret Loven, Marietta Sommers Rupe, Rick Thompson, Sara Anderson, Joyce Ditlveson, Amanda Farr, George & Diana Ritz
• Tuesday, November 24th: Blaine Boverhuis, Deb Peterson Schmidt, Ellen Pearl LaFave, Heather Snow, Lisa Hunnicutt Vreeman, Bob Hanson, Rita Glynn, Abraham Ladlie, Kyle Layland, Scott & Lisa Reitsema
• Wednesday, November 25th: Scott Groth, Calista Lerum, Randy Born, Mitchel Hill, Joel Langlie, Brian Vogt, Gideon Jude Long, Daryl & Kathy Paulsen
Wishing you quiet moments of beauty on your special day and may Thanksgiving and every day day be a day for "thanks giving!"
More...
I came across a picture the other day that goes back to the polio epidemic of years ago.
At the time, former Geneva resident and school teacher Eunice Wayne related how these children were only allowed visits from their parents about every three months while they were hospitalized.
Why? Because it was thought to be too hard on the children, as well as the parents, when they had to part. The psychology was to make it less stressful by scheduling fewer visits. Hard, but I guess it made sense.
Can you even imagine putting active young children into those almost coffee-can like containers? Cruel? Yes, but it was the only thing the doctors knew to do at the time to help keep the children alive.
Thank God and for the research that advanced medicine to change that method of treatment for this illness.
I have often wondered what happened to the children. Did those children of years ago live to outgrow the effects of that massive imprisonment?
Children are so resilient, but there had to have been psychological scars. What did people do back then to keep the normal, active child so confined, and for so long?
Not as traumatic, but back then there was the “Sister Kinney Treatment” for limbs that needed special packing and caring. My grandmother told me about how her sister, Esther, had what they supposed was polio. They packed her limbs in ice and only a few of the doctors had given up hope for her. A neighbor who really didn’t want to interfere did tell them that the Indians treated their people just the opposite. They packed the limbs in warm, damp cloths instead of the cold treatment method.
Esther’s family thought, “What do we have to lose in trying?” so they started doing the same type of treatment the Indians were using for Esther — and she got well again.
Sister Kinny got the credit for using this basic method of treatment, but the Indians were the ones who taught discovered this method of treatment.
Think of how medicine has changed over the years and look ahead to what still may come. Unfortunately, it is also very expensive, but for good reason. Have you visited a hospital or clinic like Mayo lately? Some of the old ideas still exist, but I heard it right from one of the doctor’s mouths how there are new medicines available for cancer, and also for Alzheimer's, that they feel are promising.
It is very important for people to start getting rid of the toxins in our systems and keep them out. It is these nasty things that can really cause problems.
We all know there are side effects from things like chemicals, but we also need to respect the contents of things we might find in the foods we eat. The artificial sugars and the unprintable names of ingredients that keep our bread fresh are some of the things we need to be aware of.
We fight cancer with research and lots of money. Should we be looking at all the unspellable items on the labels to see what is in the foods that are harmful and often unnecessary? When you spray deodorant, wash a floor or clothes with ingredients that could be harmful, it is innocent but deserves our scrutiny.
Big business is out to make money and perhaps in all fairness they don’t always know that chemicals added to cleaning power or weed removal may be evil. We need to “detox” when and where we can.
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Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, November 12th: Harbor Lee Pence, 2012; Trinity Tracy Vulcan, Tatum Charlotte Vulcan, Samuel Henry Kaplan, Lois Johnson Aitchison, Jill Jensen, Holly Thompson, Craig Clausen, Helen Kellem, Scott & Jan Sorenson, Jill & Shannon Jensen
• Friday, November 13th: Geoffrey Nelson. Abbey Louise Titus, Bill Johnson, Jeffrey Nelson, Diane Brighton, Earl & Janis Klinger, Steve & Pennie Ladlie
• Saturday, November 14th: Brickyn Moen, Cassandra Hill, Dakota Tracy, Kaye Larson Allen, Jill Ottesen Kehne, Kim Anderson, Gloria Tufte Keehn, Dawn Farr, Brandon Grunwald
• Sunday, November 15th: Eli Fussy, Sydney Ann Collins, Greg Riley, John Flor Jr., Daniel Mucha, Lee Waage, Cynthia Callahan, Jacob Douglas Bell
• Monday, November 16th: Ross Sletten, Asa Daniel Russell Johnson, Matthew Marcus, Betty Brandt, Ronald Johnson, Fred Schmidt, Miranda Dubois
• Tuesday, November 17th: Presley Ann Broskoff, Brynn Routh, Mikayla Sue Brouwers, Stuart Kubat, Nathan Larson, Milton Wayne, Gloria Jensen, Nathan Schmidt, Elvern Holland, David Kasper, Jim Olson, Daniel Ingvaldson, John Nelson, Trisha Cyr, Eli Lutgens, Brad & Donna Borchert
• Wednesday, November 18th: Edrea Marae Kubista, Toni Wayne Smith, LeRoy Peterson, Kim Lehmberg, Ernest Anderson, Paul Groth, Allen Schewe, Gordy & Karol Carroll
May God bless you with a beautiful year! Make your special day one you'll never forget, filled with smiles, good cheer and laughter!
It is hard to believe that something as simple as laughter can do more than pills to make people feel good. It is a researched fact that laughter is the language of the young at heart.
True laughter is a prescription available at any time. Laughter's benefits show on our face, in our body language, and in the spring to our step.
Did you know that one laugh burns six calories? Laughing is jogging for our insides and improves the muscle tone in our abdomen. It simulates our immune systems as well as increases our heart rate and circulation. Laughing heartily 100 times a day can have the same beneficial effects as spending 10 minutes on a rowing machine.
Laughter goes hand in hand with being creative, too. People with a keen sense of humor are more creative when it comes to problem solving than people who are somber individuals. People who come to work with a sense of humor are more productive and more profitable than those who are "straight laced" business men and women.
I used to have negative thoughts about Halloween, but I have changed my mind. It is a fun thing and good for everyone. I applaud Ellendale United Methodist Church for providing a place for "safe" trick or treating. I had fun on Saturday night just watching the efforts that were made to make this something warm (though the weather was cold on Halloween night).
The kids were happy. I think there was less concern about the treats and more about getting dressed up and enjoying the fun. It gave me pleasure to see proud parents taking their children, costumed beyond cute, around the church parking lot. It made you feel happy to see the little toddlers and big toddlers too, dressed up and enjoying the night.
It was no small effort on the part of the Trunk Or Treat participants, but they seemed to enjoy greeting the kids and coming up with fun ways to decorate the trunks of their vehicles. One family even decorated their fish house with Halloween decorations. Pictures will long keep memories alive of the wee dragons, super heroes, dressed-up princess, cowboys, lady bugs and pirates, to name a few.
And let’s not forget the plumped-up gals with air-filled costumes that made you laugh.
It bothers me that TV horror has replaced laughter and the likes of Red Skelton and “I Love Lucy.” These children in their costumes didn't demean anyone. Sex, murder and mayhem was not a prominent part of the dialogue. There was a dignified humor that left you feeling entertained and put a smile on your face.
People used to find a great number of fun things to do instead of watching the stupid television commercials and all the blood and guts programs that monopolize our televisions today. I wish they would go back to producing programs like “Andy Griffith,” “Little House On The Prairie” and the like.
I remember the stories told about people going "yuleboking" and dressing up for Halloween parties. They went on hayrides, camping trips, snowmobiling rides, took part in horseback rides and rodeo events; softball games, golf outings and motorcycle rides to name a few. The motorcycle rides and such don't just benefit the needy, they benefit the riders too. It gives them something to do that is fun and provides opportunities to get together with friends that bring more fun and laughter.
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Birthdays and anniversaries :
• Thursday, November 5th: Alyssa Hagen, Kerri d’Eustachip, David Wayne, Skyla Knudtson, Mavis Langlie, Chad Bratten, Allison Hanson
• Friday, November 6th: Brody Richards, Makota Grahm Misgen, Mary Ann Lund, Darlene Krohnberg, Dylan Paul Moen, Jon Beck, David Hagen, Doug Klemmensen, Lauren Jo Draayer, Chad Ayers, Toni Roberts, Taylor Roberts, Kellie & Ryan Benning
• Saturday, November 7th: Ella Dobberstein, Solveig Adelaine Mattson, her 4th birthday; Ava Leigh Wangsness, her 5th birthday; Alymra Seath, Jolee Johnson, Travis Diederrich, Linda Dobberstein, Scott Olson, Mark Sundwall
• Sunday, November 8th: Sydney Larson, Andrew Jensen, Brian Hughes, Burton Nelson
• Monday, November 9th: Phyllis Hagen, Tami Lund Wacek, Scott Coxworth, Jon Aronson, Kent Kruckenburg, Cindy Gould, Tim Westrum, Christopher Jepson
• Tuesday, November 10th: Elizabeth Benning (2011), Keith McDonald, Eric Anderson, Russell Reistad, Tomm Richards, Jennifer Zimprich, Jessica Kasper, Andrew Olson, Jessica (Johnson) & Dan Rebelein, Stan & Liz Reichl, Everett & Diane Jensen
• Wednesday, November 11th: Jason Tracy, Kate Laudon, Agnes Christensen, Ione Hagen, Dale Hunt, Paula Swearingen, Jennifer Jacobs, Dawn Diemer, Rachel Gould, Dave & Linda Brandt, Amanda Schimdt, Tory Lee Christensen
Make your special day be a day you'll never forget, filled with smiles, good cheer, and laughter!
I would be remiss if I didn't remind our communities of the value and integrity of our little leprechaun, Thomas Desmond Donnelly IV, who lived with us for a time too short with memories long to cherish.
He would prove to the world that each of us is our own person and how we handle life as individuals.
I wish I had a portrait of this true character of life. He had a favorite spot at Geneva Bar & Grill where every Thursday night where he would sit and play Bingo. He often had the luck of the Irish with him and won his share of Bingo games over the years. On the Thursday night following his death, which would have been Tom’s birthday, things just weren't the same not having him there. The Bar & Grill created a special memorial in his spot. His bar stool was tilted forward against the bar and a vase of flowers, with a small bird in the middle, was displayed. Next to it was a glass of Guinness beer and a shot glass of Jameson, which Tom enjoyed, as well as his Bingo dobber.
For years Jack and Barb Kuchenbecker, the previous owners of the bar, celebrated their October 15 birthdays together. A large birthday cake was cut and presented to the people at the bar on bingo night. Tom may have missed his upcoming birthday by a few days, but he was remembered.
The grill made memory of Tom, but the man I picture was more than that.
To most people ,digging a hole in the ground would not seem like a likeable occupation. It was no easy task, but maybe it gave "Digger" the time to meditate and talk with God about the tasks we each have to do in life.
During Tom’s service, Tim O'Leary shared some stories including the time a car got stuck in the mud. The next morning Digger hooked up a team of work horses to the car so he could pull it out of the mud. A dog spooked the horses. Tom got the car out of the mud, but in the process he proceeded to take out five fence posts.
Tom’s daughters and sons also shared a few thoughts and memories of their dad, as well as shared their thanks to everyone who turned out to honor him.
They called Tom the Mayor of Harmony Park and he gave the park new status. Before everyone departed Harmony Park, a tree was planted in his memory to remind everyone all that he stood for. His roots ran deep and the spread of his beautiful branches (arms) embraced us all. Any negative thoughts about the park are erased and now the thought seems to take on new meaning, one full of peace, love and understanding where people can come and feel at home.
Several members of his family graciously accepted the large wooden key carved from wood in honor of Tom’s title of Mayor of Harmony Park. The key was almost as big as Tom. I would like to see his key mounted at Harmony Park as a token of his life shared there. Tom gave new meaning to the park, making it almost a holy haven. The park just seemed to take on new meaning having Tom become a part of it. One of the buildings at Harmony Park very appropriately has a sign, "Lucky’s Pub” above it.
Tom loved music, especially if it was Irish. During his service, as well as during the time of food and merriment that followed at Harmony Park, some great music was shared. A number of musicians played everything from a guitar, a violin, a flute, and a harmonica as they played a number of Tom’s favorite songs of the ‘70s, as well as some great Irish songs.
Tom was tiny but mighty. Probably 100 pounds of pure muscle after digging all of the graves over the years. He was the portrait of all things Irish and proud of his heritage. His personality and love from the heart made him a giant.
No, Tom wasn't perfect. Like all of us he had "his ways," but he left one with a feeling of belonging and being a part of this world.
I know I will never forget Digger. Thomas Desmond Donnelly IV was a gentleman of value.
He was capable of making you feel good wherever you encountered him. He wasn't unkind. He was real. He never pretended to be something he wasn't.
Tom, our leprechaun, will continue to live on in the memories of all who knew him. He was Irish through and through and proud of it. Long live the likes of Tom Desmond Donnelly IV.
In closing I would like to remind you of the first verse of "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling"
There's a tear in your eye, and I'm wondering why,
For it never should be there at all.
With such pow'r in your smile, Sure a stone you'd beguile.
So there's never a teardrop should fall.
When your sweet lilting laughter's Like some fairy song,
And your eyes twinkle bright as can be;
You should laugh all the while And all other times smile,
And now, smile a smile for me.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, October 29th: Ann Anderson, Scott Klocek, Mark Motl, Bob Haried, Kayli Rose Johnson, Bailey Ann Davis, Warren & Mary Torgerson, Craig & Jennifer Torgerson
• Friday, October 30th: Lilly Jane Wacek, Gordon Goette, Angie Broskoff Klemmensen, Allen & Barb Dobberstein
• Saturday, October 31st: Happy Halloween! Kyra Barbara Kotsmith, Brooke Hanson Berg, Heather Wayne, Emily Smith, Carrie Thompson, Roseann Kasper, Lorraine Lent, Kaye & Mike Cady, Jamie & Mark Kotsmith
• Sunday, November 1st: Garrett Wangsness, Dakota Wangsness, Troy Hagen, Mike Reistad, Tim McLain, Jamie & Sergio Hernandez
• Monday, November 2nd: Karen Osmundson, Gary Dummer, Dan Nord, Tracy Farr Simon, Janis Klinger, Troy Sommers, Sylvia Janet Baker
• Tuesday, November 3rd: Nakayla Joy Butler, Preston Dean Shaunce, Brian Muri, Paula Degan Conroy, Tim Hanson, Sydney McCamish, Quinn Sebastian Briedenbach, Jennifer Misgen, Angie & Josh Lair,
• Wednesday, Novembeer 4th: Evelyn Elizabeth Benning, Scott Anderson, Andrew Farr, Stuart Vangen, Jeff Carlson, Brant Hemingway
May your special day be filled with sunshine and smiles!
I’ve probably told this story a dozen times about Halloween, but here I go again.
Tricks were tricky back in those golden years. My Grandpa Hanson was on the county school board for Districts 133 and 96, back in those early school days. Come morning one day, there on top of the one room school house sat a full size farm wagon.
Grandpa wondered, “How in the world did the farm wagon get up on top of the school house?” And of course his next thought was, “How in the world was he going to get the farm wagon off the school house?” The school house wasn’t very big, but it was tall.
Grandpa’s hired man showed up not too long after he discovered the wagon, so he enlisted him to take down the masterpiece.
Come to find out the hired man knew how to do it because he was the one who went to all the work of assembling the wagon there in the first place.
I have mixed feelings about Halloween. I guess it’s all in how you look at things. It is best to look at the happiness it gives to the children who look past the negativity of it and only see fun. The chance to dress up and pretend to be someone else for just a little while is exciting for them.
I would rather see something more beneficial than giving out candy treats, but to the kids that is part of the fun. Parents have learned, or developed, ways to portion the candy out, as well as suggest that they share it with others.
And we can’t forget a few years back, I believe in 1991, when we all got treat for Halloween, the snow storm!
My Grandmother Hanson had come to live with my mother and dad shortly before that time at St. Olaf Lake. The storm was so bad it knocked out the electrical power just about everywhere in our area. While they congregated in one room, my mom and dad more or less moaned about the inconvenience. Not Grandma. She looked at it like it was a party or family gathering. She thought of the experience as camping out.
The electricity was out for several days but my dad had a small generator he used sparingly to help keep them warm.
My husband, Daryl’s, parents were not so lucky. They were without electricity for about two weeks. Troopers, they made it an adventure reminiscent of the times before we had electricity. Jack and Vernetta figured out how they could cook and stay warm just like in the olden days.
What special memories do you think of at Halloween? Most of the adults in our area enjoy and furnish entertaining tricks on their friends in Geneva. They try to make it safe and convenient for the children.
Most people don’t bother to decorate their homes outside for a one-night celebration, but there are a few people who come to mind. Norris and Luella Thompson from Ellendale were outstanding in their celebration for kids and adults alike. My mother can remember when they made a punch that smoked (using dry ice). She also remembers how they used grapes for eyes, as well as other scary things.
And we can’t forget Dan Nelson, also of Ellendale. Dan draws a hige crowd for Halloween each year. People old and young alike like to see his decorations, as well as his costumes each year. What would the people of our area do without a personality plus character like Dan?
I hope that everyone has a happy and safe Halloween!
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, October 22nd: Scott Sorenson, Jennifer Pence, Lyle Swearingen, Brian Johnson, Kelsey Wayne, Dave DeVrient, David Polzin, Coleen Thompson, Sage Tristan Lang, Clifford Coy, Diane Gallentine Pfieffer, Kailey Ann Christensen
• Friday, October 23rd: Jacklynn Kress, Marian Dahl, Gene Grubbish, Kimberly Kilian, Grant Ver Hey, Stewart Hatch, Rick & Lana Thompson, Dan & Tina Schmidt, Gary & Deb Nelson
• Saturday, October 24th: Noelle Mae Brekke, her 5th; Jacob Keith Rigby, his 6th; Jeff Dobbertstein, Bobby Dobberstein, Joseph Bailey, Dan Willert, Bob Wayne, Ashley Ashton, Gil & Kay Nelson, Lorna & Russell Reistad
• Sunday, October 25th: Mavis Bartsch, Jady Beenken, Dean Van Hal, Charlotte Haberman, Heidi Crabtree Owen, Mikaela Krikava, Spencer & Barb Kubat, Dean & Sandy Jensen, Breanna & Timothy Breidenbach, Heidi & Jason Owen
• Monday, October 26th: Nadine Strenge, Jannell Tufte, Jeanne Holland, Heather Hove, Reece Gabriel Routh, Jake Andrew Wiersma, Kevin Hamor, Conner Dean Rhode, Jeremie Roberts, Jamie & Andrea Mettler
• Tuesday, October 27th: Jason Born, David Anderson, Bruce Yanke, James Bremer Jr., Mitchell & Amy Edwards, Donly & Joanne Cromwell
• Wednesday, October 28th: David Thompson, Jan Sorenson, Lisa Mortz Morin, Rick Horan, Randy Horan, Todd Brotizman, Rich Weckwerth, Sue Westrum, Tanner Jorge Wilson, Lyle & Darlyne Paulson, Jane & Jeff Allen, Amanda & Paul Rovnak
Hoping that your special day puts a song in your heart to last the whole year long!