Reaching EVERYbody!
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid St. Joseph Newsleader St. Joseph, MN 56374 Permit No. 21 ECRWSS Postal Customer
Newsleader St. Joseph
Friday, Dec. 21, 2012 Volume 23, Issue 50 Est. 1989
Town Crier GriefShare starts Jan. 2
Hope Covenant Church will offer “GriefShare,” a 13-week support group to help those who have suffered the death of a loved one. The session will begin Wednesday, Jan. 2 and meet every Wednesday night from 6:15-8 p.m. at the church at 336 4th Ave. S. in St. Cloud. To register, call 2574673. More information can be found at GriefShare.org.
Resurrection hosts blood drive Dec. 28
Resurrection Lutheran Church will host a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 28 at the church, located at 610 N. County Road 2 in St. Joseph. Give one last gift this holiday season, give blood. Make an appointment to donate by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS. For more information, see www.thenewsleaders.com.
‘Christmas in barn’ sets two services
The 6th annual “Christmas in the Barn” service will be held at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 23 and 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 24 at the home of Chad and Amy Leither, approximately 4 miles north of Cold Spring on County Road 2. Signs will be posted. This unique service offers a simple narration and re-enactment of the Christmas story with familiar hymns, handmade ice candles, hot apple cider and the rustic atmosphere of an old barn. Attendees are encouraged to dress appropriately and bring blankets if needed, as the barn is not heated. For more information, contact Peace Lutheran Church at (320) 685-7656 or peaceluthelca@gmail.com.
Postal Patron
Co-op adds jam sessions to the market by TaLeiza Calloway news@thenewsleaders.com
Marilyn Krzenski is not a silent shopper. When the St. Joseph resident thinks of something, she has to share it. Her latest suggestion to add jam sessions to the Minnesota Street Market is one she recently shared with store officials and in less than a week they embraced it. As customers stroll in on Tuesday nights, they will now hear original tunes from musicians playing near the front of the store. When Krzenski’s son, David Krzenski, heard of the jam-session idea, he was not surprised. His mother is always coming up with cool ideas, he said, and the fact they were supported is even more exciting. David, 24, has been playing the guitar since he was in fourth grade. He now plays a six-string. He participated in the first jam session and is eager for the sessions to catch on in the community. “Just getting the music comCo-op • page 3
contributed photo
Musicians Mikael Ballantine and David Krzenski (right) play music Dec. 4 during the first Tuesday night jam session at the Minnesota Street Market in St. Joseph.
Community talks focus on new superintendent by TaLeiza Calloway news@thenewsleaders.com
Intelligent. Culturally aware. Approachable. Transparent. These are just some of the qualities parents and community members want to see in the next superintendent of St. Cloud Area
School District 742. At least this is what they told officials from School Exec Connect, a superintendent search firm, on Dec. 18. “We’re really looking for common threads in these sessions,” Greg Vandal said. “Diversity is a common thread that has come up in discussions.”
“What is your relationship to people of color? How do you feel about immersion education? What are your thoughts on wellness beyond physical education? Those are some of the questions attendees told search committee members to consider asking canSuperintendent • page 3
Local resident turns poet by TaLeiza Calloway news@thenewsleaders.com
Newsleader closed Dec. 21-28
The Newsleader office will be closed Dec. 21-28. A Dec. 28 edition will not be published. The office will reopen on Dec. 31 and will resume weekly publications beginning Jan. 4.
See inside for our holiday greeting page.
Some of the questions asked during input sessions Tuesday called on participants to list goals for the district in the next three years, the strengths and challenges of the district in achieving these goals and questions they would ask the candidates if possible.
photo by TaLeiza Calloway
St. Joseph Township resident Charles Preble reads a poem Dec. 14 from his first book of poems, “The Ruffed Grouse.”
Charles “Charlie” Preble doesn’t have too far to look for poetic inspiration. The 76-yearold retired pastor can simply reflect on the woods and fields that surround his blue farmhouse in St. Joseph Township or remember his many travels. Preble recently published his first book of poetry, “The Ruffed Grouse.” He began writing poetry at the age of 73. Writing a book was something he always wanted to do but felt he couldn’t, he said. While he was anxious about publishing the 46-page book of poetry, he said the ride has been worth it. “It’s just been amazing,” Preble said of the response to the book. “It’s been a real
www.thenewsleaders.com
rush. Very gratifying.” He and his wife, Jana Bollman, have lived in rural Minnesota since 1986 on a 19thcentury farmstead surrounded by nature. It’s this place with its solitude, quiet and wilderness that inspires the writing and reading of poetry for him. Preble didn’t find poetry. It found him. Bollman was taking a few writing classes in the Twin Cities a few years ago. He would ride along and wait for her in a coffee shop in the same location. She noticed he’d be writing as he waited, and she eventually convinced him to take a writing class as well. They took a class together a few years ago, and when it would come time for writPoet • page 3
St. Joseph Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com
2
Friday, Dec. 21, 2012
Deadline to apply for board openings is today Those interested in serving on the St. Joseph Park Board, Planning Commission or Economic Development Authority
have until the end of today (Dec. 21) to turn in applications. Applications are available for download on the city’s web-
site, www.cityofstjoseph.com. There are three open seats on the city’s planning commission, two openings on the park board and one opening on the EDA board. Members of the city’s planning commission and park board serve three-year
terms. EDA members serve for seven years. The planning commission meets at 7 p.m. on the first Monday of the month; the park board meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Monday of the month; EDA meetings are held at 5 p.m.
every fourth Wednesday of the month. All meet at St. Joseph City Hall. Questions about the application process can be directed to city administrator Judy Weyrens at 320-363-7201.
If any readers have tips concerning crimes, they should call the St. Joseph Police Department at 363-8250 or Tri-County Crime Stoppers at 255-1301 or access its tip site at www.tricountycrimestoppers.org. Crime Stoppers offers rewards up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for crimes.
enue SE. Grandparent came to pick up his grandchild from his daughter. She did not answer the phone or come to the door. The apartment was also dark. He had paperwork from courts that he is to get the child. He asked it be put on record that he came to pick up the child and she was not there.
enue NW. A woman reported her niece had sent a suicidal message to her. Officer checked and found she was upset and said things she didn’t mean. She reassured officer several times she wouldn’t harm herself or her daughter. Her human services worker was notified.
Blotter
Nov. 13 2:30 p.m. Schoolbus stop-arm violation. Minnesota Street W. Female was unaware of bus, but stated she did drive in the area. She was advised she would be issued a citation sent via U.S. mail.
Nov. 19 9:20 a.m. No pay. College Avenue N. Drive away without paying for gas. Looked at video and ran license plate. Driver was contacted and admitted to getting gas. He stated he tried to use credit card. He spoke to station manager and took care of balance over the phone. 1 p.m. Damage to property. Neighbor reported damage to garage at Ash Street W. Homeowner was on vacation. Neighbor took photos of hole in siding caused by beer bottle being thrown. Neighbor will have homeowner call with damage estimate.
Nov. 15 6 p.m. Custody dispute. 10 Av-
Nov. 20 2 p.m. Welfare check. 1st Av-
Nov. 13 2 p.m. Property damage. St. Joseph Township Hall, College Avenue S. Report of damage to building. Appears someone stood on benches and hit the aluminum soffit in two areas. Damage amount is approximately $2,600.
Nov. 25 11:16 a.m. Theft from vehicle. Minnesota Street W. Officer was dispatched to a vehicle with a window broken out and a stolen purse. Officer learned victim had an iPhone and was able to track the phone to the J.C. Penney parking lot in St. Cloud which led to three arrests and locating the stolen property. 7:30 p.m. Unwanted person. Eagle Ridge Drive. Man reported his son was intoxicated and very verbal. Things were calmed down when officer arrived. The son was mad at stepfather. Mother agreed to take him to a friend’s house for the night. He was advised not to return or face going to jail or detox. No further problems reported.
Published each Friday by Von Meyer Publishing Inc. Publisher/Owner Janelle Von Pinnon
Newstands BP Gas Station Casey’s General Store Holiday Gas Station Kay’s Kitchen
The Local Blend St. Joseph Meat Market St. Joseph Newsleader Office
Editor Dennis Dalman
Contributing Writers TaLeiza Calloway Cori Hilsgen
Advertising Sales Assistant Kathryn Bjorke
Design/Layout Tara Wiese
Delivery Glen Lauer
P.O. Box 324 • 32 1st Ave. N.W. • St. Joseph, Minn. 56374 Phone (320) 363-7741 • Fax (320) 363-4195 • E-mail address: news@thenewsleaders.com POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ST. JOSEPH NEWSLEADER, P.O. Box 324, St. Joseph, MN 56374.
Friday, Dec. 21, 2012
Poet from front page ing assignments, it was clear Preble had a poetic voice. “The instructor would say, “Oh, you have a gift and ear for poetry,” Jana Bollman said. “It’s a real call(ing) for him.” He answered that calling. He took a poetry class, has been a member of a poetry group and found a mentor in award-winning poet Jude Nutter. Last year, Bollman suggested he publish a book of poetry. And so began the search for a publisher. It took him a year to complete the project. Preble has had two previous careers – the first as an Episcopal priest, the second as an award-winning artisan in wood. When he took a step back from woodworking, that is when poetry entered.
Co-op from front page munity together is really a cool part,” David said. “Really instilling that jam sense into people musically. A lot of time you practice by yourself, but music can be so social, which is really powerful.” Marilyn, a member of the Minnesota Bluegrass and Old Time Music Association, was looking through the organization’s quarterly newsletter last month. As she read about various jam sessions in St. Cloud, she noticed there wasn’t anything like that in the St. Joseph
Superintendent from front page didates. They were also asked to share what they saw as the most important quality a new superintendent should have. Lissa Staples of St. Cloud has twins who attend Madison Elementary School. She had hoped to see more parents at the meeting. She thinks an important characteristic in any candidate is intelligence. “I feel intelligence encompasses everything,” Staples said. “They need to be a role model.” Two community input sessions were held Tuesday. One drew a crowd of five people consisting of a former Stillwater School Board member, a St. Cloud State University professor and parents of students who attend schools within the district. A second community input session attracted three parents. “We’ve had some good discussion,” Charles Kyte said.”There will be more opportunities for public input during the interview process.” Kyte, who works for School Exec Connect, said the next step is taking the input and preparing
St. Joseph Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com “He’s always been a natural for making things,” Bollman said. “Poetry moved in and filled that creative niche.” From descriptions of naturethemed scenes and rides on the Hiawatha Line in the Twin Cities to his experiences in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, his poetry is a mix of nature, autobiography and social justice. What he likes most, he says, is the expression poetry allows while bringing together heart and mind. “I’m able to say things that I couldn’t say any other way,” he said. “You not only convey literally but emotionally.” “The Ruffed Grouse” is available at St. John’s University Bookstore, the College of St. Benedict Bookstore, St. Benedict’s Monastery Spirituality Center, the Whitby Gift Shop or from the author: charlespreble@mac.com. Here’s one of the 29 poems featured in “The Ruffed
Grouse.”
area – an area whose music community continues to grow. She thought, “Where in this area can we have this?” The Minnesota Street Market has proven to be just the place. “I think mostly it will bring a lot to the community to have this opportunity,” Krzenski said. “It’s not performance, but yet you get to play your instrument and meet other people. I think it will add to the (store’s) atmosphere.” She suggested the idea to Katie Foley, the store’s manager last month. The first jam session was held Dec. 4. The feedback has been positive. Foley said one of the musicians was excited to learn from a fellow guitarist during the first session. Though it’s
just beginning, all look forward to the success of the jam sessions. “It’s evolving,” Krzenski said. “People will get out of it what they put into it.” The jam sessions take place from 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays at the Minnesota Street Market, Those interested in participating can just show up and play. It is open to all skill levels – true to the jam-session format. Organizers are discussing recording some of the songs they play during the jam sessions and posting them online so others can learn the tunes. For more information about the sessions, visit www. minnesotastreetmarket.com.
a report for the school board. Those unable to attend either of the community input sessions are asked to fill out an online survey to share their thoughts. About 100 people have taken the survey so far. They expect between 300 and 500 by the end of the process, Kyte said. The survey can be found on the district’s website, www.isd742.org. Select “Superintendent Search” at the bottom of the webpage to complete the confidential online form. The deadline to submit it is Jan. 4. Paper surveys are also available at any District 742 school. The position will be advertised and candidates will be recruited nationally through Feb. 12. On Feb. 19, the board and consultants will meet to review and select candidates to be initially interviewed. The board will interview five or six recommended candidates on Feb. 20 and 21. On Feb. 21, the board will narrow the field to two or three finalists. The next round of individual interviews will occur Feb. 25, 26 and 27 (if needed). Each candidate will be invited for an allday interview process including open forums that will be available to staff, students and community members, and a final formal board interview.
Minnesota
Spring comes as a drunken father -late . . . bringing gifts. As Winter’s stern children, we demand, Where’ve you been? He stumbles in, with his boozy grin, spills the gifts here and there: daffodils, crocuses, the red-wing blackbirds, their ambassadorial sashes aflutter; and then, in a tipsy twirl he unfurls flocks of Canada geese, scattering them in all directions at once, and then sloshes longed for flashes of green. All these gifts, turn our hearts, once again; win us over, enabling him.
3
End of the year is near, don’t forget to use your flex benefits!
“Like” us on Facebook for exclusive deals and updates!
Russell Eyecare & Associates
15 E. Minnesota St., Suite 107, St. Joseph (320) 433-4326 www.russelleyecare.com
Christie Russell-Villnow, O.D.
St. Joseph Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com
4
Friday, Dec. 21, 2012
Lucy the cockatiel is found by Cori Hilsgen news@thenewsleaders.com
contributed photo
Eight-year-old Anna Lahr with her cockatiel Lucy.
After spending a cold and windy night outdoors, Lucy has been found. Lucy is a white, gray and yellow cockatiel. She is 8-year-old Anna Lahr’s pet. Anna is in second grade at Kennedy Community School and is the daughter of Andy and Teresa Lahr of St. Joseph. Lucy recently went missing on a cold and windy morning when Teresa Lahr stepped out of her house without realizing
Ringing for a cause
contributed photo
Five local Girl Scouts from troop #813 ring bells for the Salvation Army Dec. 13 at the Coborns in St. Joseph. They are working on their community service badges by collecting money for the Salvation Army. Left to right are the following: Maggie Brands, Marisa Bayerl, Lindsey Zimmer, Livi and Emma Kremer. All the girls are third-graders except Livi who is a first-grader.
Lucy was sitting on her shoulder. Much to Lahr’s dismay, Lucy flew away. Teresa searched for Lucy for about 45 minutes without any success. She then posted it on “Craig’s List” in the Lost-andFound section and in the Pets section. The next day Lahr received an email from someone named Patty who had spotted a white bird on the College of St. Benedict campus. Lahr searched the grounds where Lucy had been “spotted” but was not able to locate the bird. The Lahrs received Lucy from Teresa’s sister, Rose Kruger-Fuchs. She had adopted her from the humane society for her son, and after a couple years they passed her on to the Lahr family. She called her sister, KrugerFuchs, to tell her how worried she was about the bird surviving outside in the cold weather. Lahr said she could tell that her daughter, Anna, seemed upset about the bird and she really wanted to find Lucy for her daughter. Lahr also contacted the police department to see if anyone had reported seeing the lost bird. Kruger-Fuchs told Lahr she knew some people at CSB and offered to send out some emails. Lahr’s nephew, Steven, who
St. Joseph Plumbing, Heating and Irrigation
works at St. John’s University, was also contacted. That started a chain reaction of Facebook postings and emails. Lahr said she received emails expressing concern from people she had never met, including the monks at SJU. On the second day Lucy was missing, Lahr received a call from St. Joseph Police Chief Pete Jansky. “Teresa, do you believe in miracles?” Jansky asked. Jansky told Lahr someone who lived six houses away from them had found Lucy. Lahr is not sure of their last names, but she said a couple named Laurie and Dave found Lucy walking around in their backyard when their dog was barking at her. They told her they could tell Lucy was somebody’s pet because she came right to them. Lahr called her daughter’s teacher, Mrs. Mergen, at Kennedy to ask her if she would please let Anna know Lucy had been found. Lucy had spent one cold and chilly night outside before Laurie and Dave found her, but she is now safe at home with Anna again. Lahr said she is very happy Lucy has been found and she did not freeze in the cold winter weather.
Roofing • Siding • Gutters • Windows • Metal Roofs
We Specialize in Service & Sales • Underground Sprinkler Systems • Water Softeners • Water Heaters • Heating Systems • Central Air
Nick Froehle, Owner 320-363-7224
(Out of Area) 888-303-7224
THANKS to our valued customers! Lic. #20594693
Have happy holidays!
320-257-0100
www.jnsbuilders.com Check us out on facebook!
Now Hiring: Freelancers sought The Newsleaders seeks freelance writers and photographers to cover town-specific events/ meetings/personalities. Freelancers are paid per story/photo. If interested, please email a resume and a few writing/photo samples to janellev@ thenewsleaders.com.
32 1st Ave. N.W. • St. Joseph
320-363-7741 www.thenewsleaders.com
Friday, Dec. 21, 2012
St. Joseph Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com
5
Moeller leaving Kennedy for six months by Cori Hilsgen news@thenewsleaders.com
D i a n e M o e l l e r, Kennedy Community School’s principal, will leave Kennedy for six months Kennedy principal to cover an- Diane Moeller other position in the St. Cloud School District. Moeller will take over Assistant Superintendent Julia Espe’s duties as director of curriculum, instruction and assessment. Moeller said her position will not be as assistant superintendent. The position is expected to last for six months, from Jan. 2 through June 30. Espe has accepted a position as the interim superintendent for Princeton Public Schools. St. Cloud Superintendent Bruce Watkins appointed Moeller to the interim position. She said Watkins has been very supportive of Kennedy and herself during the past several years, and she felt this was one way she could show support back to him and the district. “While I am excited to have a new challenge and help out, I am of course sad to be leaving a place I love,” Moeller said. “
Kennedy is certainly my passion. I love everything about my job.” Moeller grew up in Waite Park and graduated from Apollo High School. She attended St. Cloud State University and majored in elementary education and music. Moeller then earned her master’s degree in education from SCSU and her administration degree from St. Mary’s University in Winona. Currently, she has completed all but her dissertation to complete a doctorate in educational leadership from St. Mary’s. “From about the sixth grade on, I knew I wanted to be a teacher,” Moeller said. “I never looked back. I still know that is what I was meant to do. I have a pretty strong belief system in how to make learning engaging for kids.” Moeller began her teaching career in 1977 at Richmond Elementary in Richmond. She taught first grade and third grade in the Cold Spring Rocori School District for 22 years. She was nominated as Teacher of the Year in 1996 and was one of 10 state finalists. Moeller said she enjoyed teaching, but felt something was calling her to lead. She became the principal of Kennedy and has been there for the past 14 years. She said she believes she has done a good job as the prin-
cipal and was even named the “National Distinguished Principal” in 2006. During Moeller’s years as principal of Kennedy, the school has grown from a K-4 school to a PreK-8 school. Its enrollment has increased from 216 to 800 students. Fourth-grade teacher Carol Ramler said Kennedy staff and students will miss Moeller. “Her presence will be missed because her care for students and staff is evident every day,” Ramler said. Moeller said Kennedy families are wonderfully supportive and involved and care about their kids. “It makes the work of a school principal that much more rewarding to have that kind of support,” Moeller said. As of now, Moeller said they are unsure as to who will be placed at Kennedy for the rest of the year. “The staff is a strong, hard-working staff,” Moeller said. “The students are well into their routines for the year. I am so confident teaching and learning will continue in just a fine manner. I will certainly miss the kids most of all.” Moeller has been married to Ralph for 34 years. They have two married daughters, Amy and Angie. Both daughters are graduates of the College of St. Bene-
photo by Cori Hilsgen
Diane Moeller, Kennedy Community School principal, is surrounded by fourth-grade students who are asking many questions as to why she is leaving the school. Moeller is filling in as interim director of curriculum, instruction and assessment for six months and then plans to return to Kennedy. dict, and both married graduates of St. John’s University. Both daughters were married in 2007 – three months apart. Moeller
said it was a rather busy time, especially since it was during the time period the new Kennedy was being built.
VOTED BEST SOUP IN TOWN!
VOTED BEST SANDWICH IN TOWN!
VOTED BEST QUICK LUNCH IN TOWN!
SUBS • POCKETS • GYROS • SCHWARMA
NEW PUB GRUB MENU
at Downtown St. Cloud Location Try our Tuesday-Thursday Midweek Specials • 50¢ Wings • $2 Stuffed Crab • $2 Breaded Shrimp • $2 Shrimp Cocktail • $1 Jumbo Egg Roll
• $5 Flatbread Pizzas • $2 Mozzarella Stix • $2 Chips ‘n Cheese • $2 Onion Rings • $1 French Fries
More New Menu Items Coming Soon!
50% OFF Any Sandwich With purchase of sandwich of equal or greater value Expires 1/17/13
• 3 AREA LOCATIONS •
St. Joseph Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com
6
Friday, Dec. 21, 2012
Opinion Our View Recent deaths should cause reflection on what’s important When horrific events like the mass killing in Connecticut happen, often people say, “It’s a sign of the times.” Well, these are times not many want to live in and many might have thought would never come. Times need to change. A gunman stormed into an elementary school in Connecticut and shot 20 children with a high-powered rifle and killed adults who tried to stop him, according to media reports. The age range of the victims are as young as 6 and 7 with the oldest being 56 years old. Media reports say the gunman shot victims more than once. The tragedy has plunged Newtown, Conn. into mourning. A nation mourns with them. Even the President of the United States – who is also a parent – wept for these children and their families. He also spoke at a vigil held for the victims recently. When turning on your television to hear the news of the day, stories are dominated with crime and tragedy. Again, these “times” seem to get worse as time passes. It’s hard to ignore the actions of the Connecticut shooter. Though Newtown is miles away from Minnesota, it touched families everywhere. It should. It should remind us to appreciate the time we have with our families and loved ones. It should remind us no day is promised. The mass shooting happened one week ago today (Dec. 14, 2012). About two weeks before, area communities were rocked by the killing of Cold SpringRichmond Police Officer Tom Decker who was shot Nov. 29 while attempting to check on the well-being of a man who was reported to be suicidal. Details about his death are still under investigation. Decker, 31, is the father of four children. He was buried Dec. 4 with full police honors after a funeral at St. John’s Abbey in Collegeville. These are just two examples of what many refer to as “signs of the times.” Times need to change. As authorities struggle to figure out how to make things better, please continue to keep the Decker family in your prayers and remember the mourning families and community members in Connecticut. One social media post read, “Don’t just pray for children in Connecticut, pray for children everywhere.” Well said.
Fairness and ethics
Newsleader staff members have the responsibility to report news fairly and accurately and are accountable to the public. Readers who feel we’ve fallen short of these standards are urged to call the Newsleader office at 363-7741. If matters cannot be resolved locally, readers are encouraged to take complaints to the Minnesota News Council, an independent agency designed to improve relationships between the public and the media and resolve conflicts. The council office may be reached at 612-341-9357.
Winters don’t scare Minnesotans. I’ve joined the club. When I told my family I was moving to Minnesota four years ago, they asked me, “Why? Don’t you know how cold it is there?” They asked me that in August shortly before I had planned to move here for work. I had been to Minnesota prior to moving but only during the summer. While I had heard winters were brutal, I really didn’t know what was in store. The first time schools closed due to the wind chill, I asked my boss at the time if I was still supposed to report to work. That’s the thing about being a journalist. The colder it gets, the more information reporters need to get to readers about how long the cold will last and if this is the coldest it’s been in years. My car wouldn’t start, so he picked me up and brought me to work. I wrote the first of many weather stories that day. When I tell people I’m from Ohio, they say, “Oh, it gets cold there, too, with Lake Erie, right?” Yes, it does. It gets really cold in Cleveland at times. However, when it snows in Cleveland and we hit below-zero temperatures, it doesn’t last for four days as it does here in Minnesota.
TaLeiza Calloway Reporter The cold lingers here and just when you start to thaw, it hits you again – the cold, that is. That has been my observation in the four years I’ve lived here. After the first snow storm, I called my mother and told her one thing, “Minnesotans are tough.” The colder it gets and the more snow that falls, the more Minnesotans go out. It’s as if it’s raining instead of snowing. They are fearless. Well, after three winters here, I’m becoming a Minnesotan. The fear I once felt about driving in the snow and ice has started to dwindle. Longjohns are a consistent part of my wardrobe between the months of October and March. I have my snow brush and shovel in my car at all times. I keep de-icer in my trunk in case my doors freeze – something that has happened to me on several occasions. Not fun.
I keep water and snacks in my car in case I get stuck somewhere without food. I have a flashlight in the glove compartment. It took me awhile to get to this point of winter accommodation, but here I am. I’ve learned it’s all in the preparation. I knew I was becoming more of a Minnesotan when 11 inches of snow fell, and I only complained once. I used to be so shocked at how awful the winters are here. Now, I might make a comment or two, grab my shovel and go about my day. Yep, Minnesota has become my home – even if it is a tundra-like climate for several months out of the year. The cold is not going to subside just because I want it to. There are people who have lived here all their lives and complain more than I do. There are some who live here and actually like the winters. “Like” is not a word I think I could ever use to describe how I feel about Minnesota winters. I’m still determining what that word is. In the meantime, I’ve learned to prepare for winter early, to gripe less and bundle up. After all, that’s the Minnesota way!
It’s Dec. 21. Where is everybody? Hello? Hello? Is anybody there? Hello? I’m writing this column on Dec. 13, eight days before the end of the world. With any luck, it will appear in the Friday, Dec. 21 Newsleader. Unless, of course, the end of the world shuts down the printing press, not to mention all writers and readers – forever. Dec. 21 is supposed to be Doomsday. There are three theories that predict the Last Day. One claims the Earth will be ruined due to a gravitational effect caused by the alignment between the sun and a black hole in the center of our galaxy. I imagine that will cause us to be squeezed into little dots or stretched out like taffy strands. Another theory says a reversal of the north and south magnetic poles will cause chaos and destruction. Sounds to me like just another normal day on Poor Planet Earth. A third theory is the “Mayan” prediction that time will run out Dec. 21, causing an immediate halt to the planet and ruining my vacation plans. Scientists are refuting all those theories, claiming they are all nonsense. But – hey – what do scientists know? They’re the eggheads who came up with that ridiculous theory of global warming. Anybody who watches the Fox Channel knows that’s a bunch of baloney.
Dennis Dalman Editor For the past few days, I’ve quit making Do Lists; I’m not paying any bills; housework is out of the question; any plans beyond the next hour I’ve put on permahold. Why do anything? If the Final Cancellation comes Friday, why bother now with such pathetic little human endeavors? I have spent a lot of time lately, however, debating about what to have for my last meal. I’ve decided on a late dinner for Dec. 20, a few hours before midnight when I assume the Big Kaput will happen. I’m going to have a rotisserieroasted chicken, along with mashed potatoes and asparagus with hollandaise sauce. For dessert, I’m going to eat – piece by piece – an entire pumpkin pie covered with ReddiWhip. (The pie is already ready. I made it this morning.) As I digest that dinner, I’ll pop open a bottle or two of champagne. Friends and neighbors will join me. We’ll all toast to what a heck of a life it’s been as we await the ultimate Send-Off. Then, as we watch the clock, seeing the last precious earthly minutes tick-tock away, we’ll all toast again,
clanking our glasses as we kiss our butts goodbye. Many years ago, when I was a kid, I saw a movie called “On the Beach.” It was about a group of Australians living their last hours before a nuclear holocaust. That film disturbed me deeply, and I thought for days about what I would do if I knew The End was nigh. I concluded I would break into a candy store and eat all the candy I could get my hands on. In ninth grade, I was sitting in civics class, my eyes fixed upon the classroom clock, wondering if at any second, at about 1:20 p.m., we students and the creaky old teacher would disintegrate. That was during the Cuban Missile Crisis. How dumb to be sitting in a civics class at the edge of the End of the World. This time around, I wish I had a better “End” idea than eating a roast chicken and gobbling down a pumpkin pie in terminal gluttony. It would be better to make some kind of extravagant final gesture, like waving from the top of the Eiffel Tower or wind-surfing in the air of the Grand Canyon. But, lacking travel money, the piggy dinner will have to do. If we get lucky and the world doesn’t end, we can all celebrate, but I’ll be somewhat disappointed because, once again, here come the do lists, the house chores, the billpaying and my dreaded and futile annual New Year’s diet plan.
Send your opinions to: The Newsleaders • P.O. Box 324 • St. Joseph, MN 56374 or email us at news@thenewsleaders.com
St. Joseph Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com
Friday, Dec. 21, 2012
7
Community Calendar
Friday, Dec. 21 Blood drive, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., St. Cloud Blood Donation Center, 1301 W. St. Germain St. 1-800RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org. Funeral pre-planning, 10 a.m. Whitney Senior Center, 1527 Northway Drive, St. Cloud. Monday, Dec. 24 Blood drive, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., St. Cloud Blood Donation Center, 1301 W. St. Germain St. 1-800RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org. Thursday, Dec. 27 Coffee and Conversation, a senior discussion group, 9 a.m., Country Manor, Sartell. Blood drive, noon-6 p.m., St. Cloud Blood Donation Center, 1301 W. St. Germain St. 1-800-
FREELANCERS SOUGHT THE NEWSLEADERS seeks freelance writers and photographers to cover town-specific events/meetings/personalities. Freelancers are paid per story/photo. If interested, please email a resume and a few writing/photo samples to janellev@thenewsleaders. com. tfn
MISCELLANEOUS GOLD AND SILVER CAN PROTECT YOUR HARD EARNED DOLLARS. Learn how by calling Freedom Gold Group for your free educational guide. 877-371-2354. (MFPA)
MISCELLANEOUS WRAP UP YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING with 100 percent guaranteed delivered-to-thedoor Omaha steaks! SAVE 68 percent plus two FREE gifts - 26 Gourmet Favorites ONLY $49.99. ORDER Today 1-877356-2704 use code 45069SQM or www.OmahaSteaks.com/ fvc70 (MFPA)
MISCELLANEOUS EVER CONSIDER a reverse mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & increase cash flow! Safe & effective! Call now for your FREE dvd! Call now 888-562-4751 (MFPA)
HEALTH CANADA DRUG CENTER is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail-order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90% on all your medication needs. Call today. 888-485-1568 for $25 off your first prescription and free shipping. (MFPA)
RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org. Drinking Liberally, hosted by Rex and Diane Tucker, St. Joseph, 6 p.m., American Legion, St. Joseph. An informal, non-programmatic gathering of left-leaning progressives who want to share thoughts and ideas to promote democracy one pint at a time. It is not affiliated with any political party.
Monday, Dec. 31 Blood drive, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., St. Cloud Blood Donation Center, 1301 W. St. Germain St. 1-800RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org.
Friday, Dec. 28 Blood drive, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., St. Cloud Blood Donation Center, 1301 W. St. Germain St. 1-800RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org. Blood drive, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Resurrection Lutheran Church, St. Joseph. 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org.
Thursday, Jan. 3 Holiday tree collection. The city refuse contractor will collect holiday trees curbside. Trees must be free of all decorations, bags and stands. Blood drive, noon-6 p.m., St. Cloud Blood Donation Center, 1301 W. St. Germain St. 1-800RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org.
GENERAL HELP WANTED HELP WANTED! Make up to $1,000 a week mailing brochures from home! Free supplies! Helping Home-Workers since 2001. Genuine opportunity. No experience required. Start immediately. www.themailing-system.net. (VOID IN SD) (MFPA)
TELEVISION DISH Network. Starting at $19.99/month PLUS 30 premium movie channels FREE for 3 months! SAVE! & ask about SAME DAY installation! Call - 888-379-7065. (MFPA)
AUTO DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT! Heritage for the Blind. Free 3-day vacation. Tax deductible. Free towing. All paperwork taken care of. 888-472-9219. (MFPA)
CLASSES MUSIC LESSONS FOR ALL AGES! Find a music teacher! TakeLessons offers affordable, safe, guaranteed music lessons with teachers in your area. Our pre-screened teachers specialize in singing, guitar, piano, drums, violin and more. Call 1- 888-687-0047! (MFPA) REACH NEARLY 1 MILLION HOUSEHOLDS! Do you have a product, service, or business that would be helped by reaching nearly 1 million households throughout Minnesota? The Minnesota Classified Network will allow you to reach these potential customers quickly and inexpensively. For more information concerning a creative classified ad call this publication or Minnesota Classified Network at 800-866-0668. (MFPA)
Wednesday, Jan. 2 Blood drive, 1-6 p.m., Atonement Lutheran Church, 1144 29th Ave. N., St. Cloud. 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org.
Oct. 1, 2011 - Sept. 30, 2012
ADVERTISING TO INVESTIGATE OTHER ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES Call PaperChain at 931922-0484 or e-mail info@ paperchain.com. (MFPA)
MISCELLANEOUS
3,700 67 3,377 210 50 3,704 4
Highspeed Internet EVERYWHERE by Satellite! Speeds up to 12 mbps! (200x faster than dial-up.) Starting at $49.95/mo. CALL NOW & GO FAST! 1-866-796-2843 (MFPA)
3,700
• Free Hearing Screenings • Hearing Aid Sales & Service • Clean & Check All Hearing Aid Brands
320-258-4494 or 1-888-407-4327 161 19th St. S. • Ste. 111 • Sartell www.accuratehearingservices.com
7,983
HEALTH ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS with Medicare. Get FREE CPAP replacement supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all; prevent red skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 888859-7796. (MFPA)
Mattress Outlet Twin Sets from $99 Full Pillowtop Sets from $160 Queen Pillowtop Sets from $195 King Pillowtop Sets from $350
Sofa and Sectional Sets at Unbeatable Prices!
320-348-9003
News Tips?
Call the Newsleader at 363-7741
BEAUTY
DENTISTRY
Mary Kay Cosmetics Joyce Barnes St. Joseph 320-251-8989
Michael F. Contardo D.D.S. 26 2nd Ave. NW St. Joseph 320-363-4468
CHIROPRACTOR Dr. Jerry Wetterling 103 N. College Ave. St. Joseph 320-363-4573
Drs. Styles, Cotton & Milbert 1514 E. Minnesota St., Box 607 St. Joseph 320-363-7729
CHURCHES
DESKTOP PUBLISHING
Gateway Church
Von Meyer Publishing 32 1st Ave. NW St. Joseph 320-363-7741
106 2nd Ave. NW St. Joseph (next to the Post Office) 320-282-2262
EYECARE
Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday, 7 p.m. Wednesday, 6 p.m. Saturday Christmas Eve Candelight Service 5-6 p.m.
Resurrection Lutheran, ELCA Sunday Worship 8:30 & 11 a.m. WoW! (Worship on Wednesday) 6:30 p.m.
610 N. CR 2 St. Joseph 320-363-4232 www.rlcstjo.org St. Joseph Catholic Church
Family Owned and Operated Hearing Center
7,983 48 7,725 215 50 7,998 15
Masses: Tuesday-Friday 8 a.m. Saturday 5 p.m. Sunday 8 and 10 a.m.
320-363-7505 St. Joseph www.churchstjoseph.org
Russell Eyecare & Associates 15 E. Minnesota St., Ste. 107 St. Joseph 320-433-4326
PLUMBING & HEATING Metro Plumbing & Heating 545 8th Ave. NE St. Joseph 320-363-7761
8
St. Joseph Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com
Friday, Dec. 21, 2012
Wishing you the very best this holiday season!
Wishing You a Merry Christmas from all of us at
21 16th Ave. S.E., St Joseph • 363-1313 www.arlingtonplacemn.com
1180 East Elm St. • St. Joseph • 363-4223 www.mcstate.com/35317
Yuletide wishes from all of us at
Season’s greetings from
ARLINGTON PLACE
BRENNY TRANSPORTATION INC.
MCDONALD’S ST. JOSEPH
ONCE UPON A CHILD
8505 Ridgewood Road, St. Joseph • 363-6999 www.brennytransportation.com
110 2nd St. S., Waite Park • 253-7193 www.onceuponachildstcloud.com
Happy holidays from
Happy holidays from
CENTRAL MINNESOTA CREDIT UNION
PINECONE VISION CENTER
35 N. College Ave., St. Joseph • 271-0274 www.mycmcu.org
2380 Troop Drive, Ste. 201, Sartell • 258-3915 www.pineconevisioncenter.com
Best wishes for a happy holiday season!
Happy holidays from all of us at
252-9799 • www.chem-dry.net/stcloud.mn
15 Minnesota St., Ste. 107, St. Joseph • 433-4326 www.russelleyecare.com
CHEM-DRY OF ST. CLOUD Season’s greetings from
CHIROPRACTIC CONNECTION 709 County Road 75, St. Joseph • 363-4694
Happy holidays from all of us at
COLLEGE OF SAINT BENEDICT & SAINT JOHN’S UNIVERSITY
St. Joseph • 363-5011 Collegeville • 363-2011 www.csbsju.edu
Happy holidays to you and yours
MICHAEL CONTARDO, DDS
26 2nd Avenue NW, St. Joseph • 363-4468 www.michaelcontardodds.com
With all Best Wishes for a Joyous Season and a Very Happy New Year!
DEZURIK INC.
250 Riverside Ave. N., Sartell • 259-2000 www.dezurik.com
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from
DRS. STYLES, COTTON, MILBERT & STAFF 1514 E. Minnesota St., St. Joseph • 363-7729
Wishing you a Merry Christmas from all of us at
GM DRILLING
8914 Ridgewood Court, St. Joseph • 363-7453 www.gmdrilling.com
Season’s greetings from Merle, Courtney and Chris at
INSURANCE ADVISORS
26 E. Birch St., St. Joseph • 363-0007
Happy holidays from all of us at
NEWSLEADERS
32 First Avenue NW, St. Joseph • 363-7741 www.thenewsleaders.com
RUSSELL EYECARE
A toast to you - thanks for your continued patronage.
ST. JOSEPH LIQUOR SHOPPE Hwy. 75, St. Joseph • 363-8636
Happy Holidays from
ST. JOSEPH MEAT MARKET 26 1st Ave. N.W. • St. Joseph • 363-4913 www.stjosephmeatmarket.com
Season’s greetings from all of us in
ST. JOSEPH’S ROD & GUN CLUB Ken Hiemenz, president P. O. Box 374, St. Joseph • 363-8803
Happy holidays from
STEARNS COUNTY ABSTRACT CO. 21 Court House Square, St. Cloud • 251-5920 www.stearnscountyabstract.com
May the light of Christmas shine through while you attend church this Christmas season. From all of us at
STONEHOUSE STAINED GLASS 438 1st St. SE, Avon • 356-9211 www.stonehousestainedglass.com
Happy holidays from all of us at
WENNER COS.
319 Main St., Cold Spring • 685-8673 www.wennerco.doitbest.com