Yesteryear
100 Years Ago
(July 14, 1923)
Automatic pump stolen from Esping's vehicle
John Esping reported that an automatic pump that was attached to the running board of his car, was removed from there Saturday night while the car was parked near the side entrance of Dalmann's Grocery. This was a valuable pump and Mr. Esping is desirous of having it returned. Any evidence leading to its recovery will be appreciated. If the pump is returned to Mr. Esping, no questions will be asked.
Huso discovers all wires on his fence cut
Someone out of pure cussedness cut all the wires on the Huso fence near the bridge north of town the other day. Just how anyone can find amusement in this kind of destruction is not clear to us. Why people should enjoy destroying other people's property, to no purpose, is difficult to figure out.
Gislason addresses meeting of real estate in Wheaton
B.B. Gislason went to Wheaton on Monday and addressed a meeting of real estate men. Mr. Gislason is one of the most prominent Democrats in the state. He is not the kind of fellow who takes you into a back alley to tell you what he thinks of a political situation. He comes right out in the open and lays his cards on the table and everyone knows just where he stands.
75 Years Ago
(July 16, 1948)
Thief steals money boy saved to buy bike
Somewhere in this community a thief is $12 richer because he stole money a 17-year-old boy had been saving for a year to buy a new bicycle. The theft occurred about 7 p.m. last Saturday when Dennis Johnson drove downtown with his father, Vernon Johnson, to pick out a new bike. Dennis had saved his share of the cost in pennies, nickels and dimes, all placed in a fruit jar. When the two arrived downtown, Mr. Johnson parked his auto behind the local bakery, set the jar of money between the two front seats and they sallied forth to pick out the new bike. After picking out the bike he wanted, Dennis went back to the car to get the money. When Dennis reached between the seats to get the fruit jar, it was gone. The only explanation Johnson has for the theft is that someone was watching them when they placed the money between the seats.
New Chevrolet garage in town nearing completion
The new Chevrolet garage, W.J. Dero and son, Lawrence, are erecting here is nearing completion this week. Plasterers were expected to finish the walls in the display room, office and parts room. Workmen had completed installing the hoist and were getting ready to pour a small portion of the floor in the northwest part of the building, the rest having been poured some time ago. It is thought that it will all be completed sometime in August.
Some farmers begin harvesting small grain
While a few have cut and harvested barley, and some have made a round or two in their oat fields, most farmers in this territory were waiting until next week to start harvesting in full swing. Predictions are that this year's crop will be a good one although yields will be somewhat spotted.
50 Years Ago
(July 12, 1973)
Don Rye re-elected as chairman of school board
The local school board returned all of its officers to their positions as the group held its organizational meeting on Thursday night. Don Rye was re-elected chairman of the board, with Phyllis Donaldson and L.W. Allen renamed clerk and treasurer, respectively. The board also approved a teaching contract for Diane Armbruster as vocal music teacher in the school, as well as Jean Sorenson to teach elementary physical education.
Boes take father-son golf title at Countryside
Wynston Boe and his son, Brian, were the winners of the Father-and-Son Golf Tournament at Countryside Golf Club on Sunday. The Boes had a low gross of 38. There were 17 teams that took part in the tournament, the biggest turnout up to this time for a local tournament of this type. Winners in the handicap division were Rodney and Chad Stensrud.
Jaycees serve 80 free watermelons over 4th
The Minneota Jaycees served over 80 watermelons when they staged a Fourth of July celebration last week. The event included races of various kinds, free melons, and fireworks show at the driving range of the local golf club. There were scores of youngsters from the community, and probably as many parents and onlookers at the Jaycees’ shindig.
25 Years Ago
(July 15, 1998)
Merritt finds out that miracles do happen
Former Minneota resident Rick Merritt recently discovered that miracles do happen. While working here 16 years ago, Merritt kept getting his wedding ring caught and removed it as he thought he might lose his finger. He put the ring on his key chain and lost the key chain. He searched high and low for several months for the key chain to no avail. This past year, Pat Sarazyn purchased some veterinarian supplies from Rick's father, "Doc" Merritt and found the chain in one of the boxes. Pat sent the key chain and ring to Rick, who was grateful, especially since it was the year of his 25th wedding anniversary.
Fixens recognized for work with Nordland Township
Bob and Jeanette Fixen were given thanks, plaques and a gift certificate recently for their hard work with Nordland Township. Bob has been the Nordland Township clerk for 24 years, and Jeanette has worked beside him, providing a place to hold the meetings and serving coffee to all who attended. Nordland Township supervisor Allan Telste presented the Fixens with their awards at their home this past Monday evening.
Boerboom elected chairman of Minneota school board
Scott Boerboom was named chairman of the Minneota School Board at a meeting on Thursday evening. With the resignations of Mary Myhre and Jim Rokeh, the four remaining members ended up with the leadership roles. Besides Boerboom, John Schreier was named the vice chairman, Tim Gossen was named clerk, and Bruce Bot was named treasurer.