Features (1071)
Public meeting May 9 at Geneva Community Building
By KATHY PAULSEN
Staff Writer
Changes will be coming to the Geneva Postal service, but residents have an opportunity to vote on the results.
A meeting will be held Thursday, May 9 at the Geneva Community Building regarding the post office. All Geneva residents are invited to express their thoughts, concerns and feelings.
It is time for thought. Yes, we know the post office is in financial trouble and though it is a government service, it is not government subsidized, and must make it on its own.
Computers and other technical communication have threatened the economic viability of the post office, so there are cuts being contemplated. The U.S. Postal Service is conducting a discontinuance study for the Geneva Post Office and once the results have been reviewed and the meeting has been conducted, they will decide which is the best option.
By JIM LUTGENS
Editor/Publisher
Ashley Misgen is safe and sound.
That's what people in the NRHEG area were concerned about after explosions rocked the Boston Marathon Monday afternoon. Misgen, a 2005 NRHEG High School graduate living in Minneapolis, ran in Monday's race, finishing within minutes of bombs that killed at least two people and injured several dozen others.
"We were just a couple blocks away," said Misgen, reached by cell phone late Monday afternoon. "My mom and my sister were about a block away. When you watch some of the footage on TV, they're by the candy store you can see. They had just walked about a block down the street. We were pretty darn close. The whole area, within a minute, was just mayhem. A couple minutes after the first one went off, you could smell the smoke from the explosion."
Economy retires as NRHEG educator
FAMILY TIME — That’s what Julie Economy has had more of since retiring from the NRHEG School District after 33 years. She’s pictured with her grandchildren, from left, Kaeden Neitzel (holding Abby), Brynlee Neitzel and Zachary Neitzel. (Star Eagle photo by Jim Lutgens)
By RACHEL RIETSEMA
Staff Writer
After 33 years worth of lesson plans completed for NRHEG school district, Julie Economy decided the time had drew near. So near in fact that it was time to retire.
“I do have some health issues and a desire to be free to spend more time with my sister, Barb, who is a resident of New Richland Care Center,” Economy said. “I want to be able to help my children and grandchildren and plant the garden on time for a change.”
Although she has no regrets, she dearly misses the kids and her grandchildren at school. The staff members are pulling on her heart strings too.
STAYING BUSY — Longtime New Richland resident Hilda Dobberstein was busy embroidering when Star Eagle Staff Writer Kathy Paulsen came to visit. Hilda recently celebrated her 95th birthday. (Star Eagle photo by Kathy Paulsen)
By KATHY PAULSEN
Staff Writer
Whenever visiting a care facility, a person often comes away with a rewarding feeling. You wonder why you don't make time to go more often.
Such was the feeling after visiting with longtime New Richland resident Hilda Dobberstein, a beautiful, intelligent lady who quietly celebrated her 95th birthday.
Hilda Billing was born to William and Ella (Schlaak) Billing on the family farm on the 25th of March, 1918, the fourth member of the family. First born was Wallace, who only lived 4 months, then came Hazel, Hilda, Luella and Malinda. Hazel Brandt and Luella Herbst are no longer with us.
Director excited about production of ‘Bye Bye Birdie’
Written by Jim LutgensBy JESSICA LUTGENS
Editorial Assistant
NRHEG Schools are proud to present the upcoming presentation of “Bye Bye Birdie.”
The production will take place on Friday, April 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 20 at 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. at the high school gymnasium in New Richland.
The play’s directors include Mrs. Fredrickson and Mrs. Inoyue; musical direction will be led by Mr. Siewert. The cast consists of 30 members.
Several departments in the high school have contributed to what is sure to be a successful debut, including art with the set, woods with building and electric, and computer skills.
By JESSICA LUTGENS
Editorial Assistant
The New Richland City Council commenced its first meeting of April on Monday night, the 8th, at 6:30 p.m. All members were present, along with an abnormally large crowd for a regularly scheduled meeting.
The agenda was viewed and approved, along with the consent agenda. First up was Scott Eads presenting the New Richland Police Department Report. For the month of March, 84 calls were received along with 54 additional contacts. No serious of felonious crimes were reported. The purchase of two new tires, along with the removal of snow tires, was requested at the amount of $386.62. The Council approved the purchase along with the report.
Area church to celebrate rebuilding of historic organ
Written by Jim LutgensArea residents invited to April 21 event
In celebration of the rebuilding of the pipe organ at LeSueur River Lutheran Church, rural New Richland, there will be an organ recital at the church on Sunday, April 21, at 1 p.m., presented by distinguished musician, Marilyn Schempp of Sioux Falls, S.D. Area residents are invited to attend! The pipe organ was rebuilt in 2012 by the Rutz Organ Co. of Morristown, Minn.
Schedule for the day:
• 10:30 am: Worship service
• 12 noon: The public is invited to enjoy a fundraising roast beef dinner at the church.
• 1 pm: Organ recital which will include organ solos, organ duets, and organ and brass arrangements, featuring Eric and Christopher Knutson on trumpets and Daniel Knutson on the euphonium.
Ellendale musician releases second CD
MUSIC MAN — Matt Arthur of Ellendale was born blind, but that hasn’t stopped him from succeeding in the world. He recently released his second gospel music CD, “Heavy on my Mind.” (Star Eagle photo by Kathy Paulsen)
By KATHY PAULSEN
Staff Writer
Matt Arthur is often seen making his way around Ellendale. He carries a white stick and, for those who don't know, yes, he is blind.
He is blind. But no one said he couldn't see.
Matt probably “sees” more than many of us, as he assumes his life by seeing without eyesight. He has vision, probably because he had parents who had the "sight" to see and trust their child just like the rest of the kids.
There was no, "Poor Matt,” but more, "Matt you can do this," and he did and still does. He listens to and hears what is going on. He takes part in many community events and affairs that many don't even think about.
Ellendale native David Bunn hired as high school principal
By REED WALLER
Staff Writer
New principal hired
At a special meeting of the NRHEG school board Monday, March 25, a two-year contract was approved for David Bunn, who will be replacing the retiring Paul Cyr as high school principal this coming year.
Bunn has spent the past five years as high school principal at Prescott, Wis., where he was instrumental in implementing programs such as Response to Intervention and PBIS, as well as an iPad initiative.
It only remains to find a superintendent, and quickly.
Superintendent search
With Superintendent Kevin Wellen’s contract expiring on June 30, and time to look for a replacement growing very short, last week the NRHEG board arranged a meeting with a consultant from South Central Services Cooperative to see if it might be a better idea to have them facilitate the search, than have to undertake the time consuming process without help. NRHEG is a member of SCSC and contracts their services annually.
‘Bye Bye Birdie’ to be presented this month
NRHEG High School’s 2013 spring production of “Bye Bye Birdie” will be presented at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 19 and at 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 20 in the high school gymnasium in New Richland. Directors for the play are Mrs. Fredrickson and Mrs. Inouye, with musical direction by Mr. Siewert.
Registrations accepted for Panther Preschool
Registrations are now being taken for the Panther Preschool in Ellendale and New Richland. Panther Preschool is available for area residents who have children ages 3 through 5 (2013-2014 school year). Registration forms can be picked up at both sites in the main offices. There are several sessions from which to choose. The registrations forms along with the $25 registration fee are due by April 15. If you register after April 15, the registration fee is $35. Contact Marilyn Dobberstein at the New Richland High School at 417-2667, if you have further questions or wish to have a registration form sent to you.
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Students must complete online course before local event
The New Richland Sportsmen’s Club is planning another Firearm Safety Day on Saturday, April 6 at the New Richland Area Sportsmen’s Club house on Highway 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Note: we are only having one Field Day a year from now on.
To complete the course:
1.. Register for class in the school office on the sign up sheet. You must be at least 11 years old to attend the field day. Give your name, address and phone number so we can contact you when it gets closer to the field day.
2. Go online at www.huntercourse.com, complete the online class, take and pass the test at the end and purchase your Field Day Voucher, which is $24.95, and print it out. You will need to bring the voucher with you to the Field Day or you will not be able to participate that day.
Wagner rewrites the books with six state records
WE’RE NO. 1 — Members of the NRHEG girls’ basketball team celebrate after winning the Class AA state championship Saturday afternoon at Target Center in Minneapolis. The Panthers, No. 2 in the final state ratings, defeated No. 3 Braham 60-59 in what’s been called one of the most exciting championship games in state tournament history. The Panthers’ Carlie Wagner made history herself, breaking five state records and tying another. (Star Eagle photo by Chris Schlaak)
By JIM LUTGENS
Editor/Publisher
For Carlie Wagner and the New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva girls’ basketball team, it was a storybook end to a fairy tale season. There are no more game plans to prepare, no more challenges or adversity to overcome and, most importantly, no more teams to beat.
The Panthers won it all.
Behind a relentless scoring performance by Wagner and tremendous team defense, the Panthers captured the Minnesota Class AA state championship with a thrilling 60-59 victory over Braham at Target Center in Minneapolis Saturday afternoon.
“It’s incredible,” said Wagner, signing autographs after the welcome home ceremony Saturday. “Just looking at everyone in the packed gym is insane. When everyone stood up and cheered, I just went numb.”
By KATHY PAULSEN
Staff Writer
Some things are so sad they are hard to talk about.
A 2-year-old child died in an apparent farm equipment accident on private property in rural Hartland Friday, March 15. Community wide thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Benjamin Albert Fenton, who was born on January 25, 2011, to Albert and Shelly Fenton of Matawan.
Whether we knew him or not, shock, and disbelief stay with all of us as we mourn the life of a young child taken so quickly. Today, the thoughts and prayers of the entire community go out to the parents.
The following information was gleaned from talking with the Freeborn County Sheriff's Department. The mother was ill and like most little boys, Benjamin was more than happy to go with his dad to work.
The incident took place at 32603 670th Avenue, rural Hartland, according to the Freeborn County Sheriffs' office. Initial reports indicated that a skid loader was involved.
Benjamin’s father was operating a Bob Cat skid loader and was moving snow for a friend. The cab was completely enclosed and at no time did Benjamin ever fall out, but instead was hit accidently in the head by the operating arm.
Albert Fenton was able to drive the child to the Hartland Fire Department while calling 911.
A Freeborn County Deputy said, "The Freeborn County Sheriff’s Department, the Hartland Fire Department, New Richland Ambulance and Gold Cross Ambulance crews all responded and provided medical assistance. They had called for a medical helicopter, but weather made its use impossible. Benjamin was taken to Mayo Health Systems in Albert Lea where he was pronounced dead.”
Only three years ago, the family lost another son in a tragic ATV accident.
NRHEG girls defeat Pelican Rapids 62-49 in state quarterfinals
INTENSITY — NRHEG's Jade Schultz wrestles for the ball against Pelican Rapids' Mackenzie Korf during Wednesday night's Class AA quarterfinal game of the Minnesota State Girls' Basketball Tournament at Williams Arena in Minneapolis. The Panthers won 62-49, advancing to the semifinals Friday at 8 p.m. against Minneapolis Washburn at Target Center. Also in the photo: Marnie Wagner, Sommer Haugrud, Paige Overgaard and Carlie Wagner, who led all scorers with 31 points. (Star Eagle photos by Chris Schlaak)
GAME FACES — NRHEG girls' basketball players watch the early quarterfinal game at Williams Arena Wednesday awaiting their 8 p.m. matchup with Pelican Rapids. Front from left: Hannah Lundberg, Carlie Wagner, Marnie Wagner. Back: Katie Cole, Jade Schultz. The Panthers Friday face Minneapolis Washburn (23-7), which edged last year's state runner-up Sauk Rapids 64-58 in the game the Panthers watched.