Email Granville

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Mary may be contacted at:
Mary E. Robinette
506 West Avenue SW
Granville, ND 58741
Home: (701) 728-6925
Cell: (701) 833-1897
mrobinette@srt.com

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #25
August 8, 2007

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #24
August 1, 2007 

It’s August already!  The NDSF is over (hooray)! Personally, I feel like I’ve just stepped off the face of the sun. Maybe the weather will get a little cooler, and maybe we’ll have a nice Indian summer this year. Personally, I feel like I’ve just stepped off the face of the sun after spending nearly a week at the Fair.

 Last week I inadvertently called Lucille Loftesnes’ granddaughter Devan, by the name of Carson. I’m sorry about that, Devan, and congratulations to you for winning that nice basket of prizes at the Towner Garden Tour. I have just one question for you Devan; what are you going to do with the wine? I hope you’ve had a nice visit in North Dakota!

 According to the July 9 Minot Daily News, Sgt. Guy Stevens of Burlington, nephew of Leonard and Marlene Larsen, received the Army National Guard’s nationwide the top engineer’s award for outstanding military service. The Sturgis Award was awarded to Guy at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri in May 2007. Guy recently returned from Iraq and serves with Company A of the 164th Engineer Battalion.

 Sunday July 22, Helga Cross was very surprised that twenty people arrived for her 91st birthday party! The Odlands, Sorensens, and the Crosses all showed up and she wondered where in the world everyone was going to sit! Helga admitted that it was an exciting time for her and hopes to do it again next year.

 Saturday July 21, Leonard and Marlene Larsen took Madison and Brooke Van Grinsven to their cabin in Metigoshe for the weekend. Tuesday July 24 Marlene Larsen and Gwen Skarstad drove to West Fargo to help Kim Hall and the boys settle into their new home.

 Wednesday July 25, Vereen Karath and Helga Cross drove to Karlsruhe for the McHenry County Senior Citizen’s quarterly dinner and meeting.

 Vereen Karath volunteered many hours this week and last week to the Ward County Historical Society, in support of their yearly fund raiser at the Fair.

 Saturday July 28, Nyla Sorensen visited her mother Helga Cross.

 Friday, July 27 Robert and Lynette Olson and Leonard and Marlene Larsen spent the day together at the Larsen cabin at Metigoshe. Saturday Kyle, Kendra, and Kaitlyn Larsen, Brian, Kris, Madison, and Brooke Van Grinsven, Paul, Candy, and Carson Brekke all visited Leonard and Marlene at the Larsen cabin to help side their cabin. Sunday afternoon Robert and Lynette Olson and Leonard and Marlene returned home.

 Sunday, July 29, Vereen Karath phoned Carol Brooks in Fargo. Vereen said Carol is fine and says “Hello” to everyone in Granville!

 Try to stay cool and I’ll talk to you next week!

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #23
July 25, 2007 

Good grief, the temperature supposed to rise to 106 degrees this weekend!  Of course, I am writing this on the Saturday before you receive the paper; and by tomorrow, I mean last Sunday.

The Fair is going strong and I am about to melt. Working in the Pioneer Village has just about worn me out this year! Last Friday I had the pleasure of talking to Lucille Loftesnes and her granddaughter, Carson, who toured our village. I was pleased that Lucille noticed that our railroad depot was open and ready for visitors; we opened it last year for the first time in ten years. We also have our automobile/fire truck) and printing displays open for the first time in several years. Another item that may interest some of you is that our World War II pictures from Brady’s Bar in Minot is ready for viewing in the Samuelson House in the village. Paul Robinette has been working on this project for almost two years! He has found a few Granville veteran’s pictures, among others from the area, and has cataloged them and made them into a slide show presentation. They will be available on a CD soon.  I urge you to visit the Pioneer Village while you’re at the Fair. The entrance fee is waived during the Fair!

July 7, Bridget Yoder and Jayme Humble of Towner were wed in Granville’s First Lutheran church. Bridget’s Maid of Honor was Kayla Wintermute, Bridesmaids were: Mandy Humble, Courtney Humble and Samantha Lundy. Her Flower girls were: Sierra Brossert, and Katrina Brossert, and their Ring Bearer was Loren Lundy. Jayme’s Groomsmen were: Jeff Miller, Nathan Kurtz, and DJ Haman. Their Ushers were: Merle Yoder, Brady Nelson, Travis Hanson, and Andrew Kongslie. Bridget’s Attendant was Michelle Werle. Reverend Don Andrews Officiated. I apologize for this late notice.

Sunday, July 15, Joyce and Gerry Deibert were evening guests of Joyce’s mother, Betty Trana; and last Tuesday Anita Trana, Betty’s granddaughter- in-law, brought her some freshly caught fish. 

Kay and Lloyd Doctor, of Brush Prairie, Washington, and Lloyd’s sister Frieda Felitz of Vancouver, visited Darlene Swallers from last Tuesday through Saturday. During that time Kay and Lloyd went to Bismarck to visit friends and Frieda remained with Darlene until they returned. Darlene said that everyone had a very nice time together. Saturday the trio left Granville for Kalispell, Montana where they will join a family reunion.

Thanks to everyone who continues to contribute to this column. Remember, it belongs to our community.

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #22
July 18, 2007

Wow! This month is really whipping by fast!  Next week is the State Fair (good luck to all of you 4 - H contestants)! While you’re there, drop in at the Pioneer Village and rest in some shade. We’ll have water, raffle tickets, and some terrific pioneer books for sale. One particular book that I personally like is Mette Marie, by Robert Thorud. It is about his grandmother homesteading experience in Norma, North Dakota when she was 6 - 9 years old. This book is great for children who are in grades four through six; parents, I highly recommend this book for children and adults who are interested in North Dakota history. For those of you who aren’t “volunteered out” yet, we can use some during the Fair!

Unfortunately, last week I ran out of column room before I was finished telling everyone who visited Granville during the centennial. Nyla Sorensen visited Helga Cross on July 8 and Kenny Cross visited his mother on July 7.  Olga and Ingvald Odland, who live in Velva, visited Helga on July 1, centennial Sunday.

Estell and Ardith Kramer from Washington State surprised Phyllis Hudson with a visit during the centennial.  Estell is Phyllis’ cousin.

Ken Trana from Carson, ND visited his mother Betty, from Friday, June 29 through Sunday, July 1. They both attended the Sunday church service at Granville’s Congregational United Church of Christ. Viola Weist from Jamestown and her daughter, Marilyn from Watertown, SD, visited Betty and Ken on Saturday.

The July 5 Women’s Society at the Congregation UCC church group discussed the annual Minot and Granville’s UCC “Picnic in the Park” on the second Sunday in August.

For those of you who don’t know, the first prize of the Congregational Women’s Society raffle went to Vereen Karath - the red tied quilt donated by Vi Gleason, Sandy Shively won second prize - the crocheted doll donated by Darlene Swallers, and Carolyn Thornson won third prize - a table runner donated by Merry Green.

Tuesday, July 3, Leonard and Marlene Larson traveled to Minot to watch granddaughter Brooke’s T- Ball practice. July 4 , they both traveled to Velva to watch the parade and later visited in - laws and friends, Lynn nd Grace Watne. Thursday, July 5 Marlene visited her mother, Gwen Skarstad of Minot.

Granvillite Jerry Anderson and Joan Brunner from Minot are engaged to be married on July 20.

Saturday July 14, Holly Krout and Sidney Quipp were married in a beautiful garden ceremony at the home of Tim and Jo Krout. Attendants for Holly were: Laramie Larson, Stephanie Beauchamp, Kelse Klose, and Matron of Honor, Chris Pietsch. Groomsmen were: Michael and Matthew Krout, and Sid Quipp. It was a very lovely outdoor wedding and reception. I could tell that great care was taken to plant and arrange the flowers in the garden and yes, Jo did manage to find time to weed her vegetable garden!

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #21
July 10, 2007

Ok, you can come out now.  Yes, you. You who have been hiding, evading the post office, bank, and the diner because you were afraid “someone” was going to ask you to do some small, little task for the centennial; or perhaps a very big task. But those of you who volunteered - my goodness what a shock it was for me to see you working so hard! Some of you haven’t worked that hard in years. But you stepped up to the plate and we Granvillites thank you from the bottom of our warm hearts because we know that we couldn’t have done it without you! You made us shine throughout the weekend, God bless all of you! 

On the other hand, a friend of mine called me yesterday to borrow some cat milk (yes there is a special type to buy for felines and it’s not cow or goat milk). She told me that she was at the landfill on Saturday and found two of the cutest “itty bitty kitties” that someone had dumped off, probably because they weren’t wanted. Listen to this you scum of the earth, if you don’t want kittens get your cats spayed! Pick up a stray and get her spayed or take it to the Humane Society…enough said.

Last week I had lunch with Annabelle and Helen Ohmart, Nancy Mueller’s mother and sister. They were in town helping Nancy baby-sit the grandchildren while she was busy with centennial arrangements. 

It was nice to visit with Tracy and John Ulland last Saturday because I haven’t seen them since they moved to Velva. Tracy was selling American Legion Auxiliary raffle tickets during the centennial.

Del Drader had his entire family of siblings visiting him during the centennial; LaVere and wife Ruth from San Pedro, CA, Dorlin and fiancé Sharon, and Ted from Amity, Oregon, all headed home on Sunday. Sister Clio Sorenson remained and will leave for Whidbey Island, WA on Tuesday. Ted won the final calendar prize of $500.00 that was awarded on Saturday evening of the centennial. Congratulations Ted!

Vince III, Heidi, and little Vince spent the night at the home of Vince and Julie Gabel’s on July 3. On July 4, their daughter Trisha, husband Gregg, and grandchildren Shelby and Nathaniel visited during the afternoon.

Lucille Loftesnes entertained several guests throughout the centennial including daughter LuAnn and husband Steve Aakhus and son David from Oakland, CA., daughter Pam and husband Lenny Brewer from Casper, WY., Pam’s son David Kanenewshu from Fargo, daughter Maureen and granddaughters Kelsey and Devan Lang from Colorado Springs, CO. Devan will remain with Lucille throughout the summer and is currently at camp in Metigoshe for the week. 

Donna Lundy had a big surprise at the diner on centennial Sunday. Her sister Diane and nieces Candy and Brianna along with granddaughter Samantha worked side-by-side serving customers (and there were very many!) until they closed at 2:00 pm!

Well folks, if I don’t stop here I won’t have enough space for this week’s column. One last word, Paul, the Webmaster, said he would appreciate any pictures that anyone snapped during the centennial for the website. Just email them to robinette@srt.com.

See you next week,
Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #20
July 3, 2007

This was a HOT week for Granville, and I don’t mean the temperature!  NPR…that‘s National Public Radio, folks … yes, more publicity for Granville!  We were LIVE on the radio last Thursday afternoon!  For those who weren’t listening, you missed the interviews of Linda Smette, Lucille Loftesnes, Clione Rollman, and Junior Hiller and their relationship to Granville’s history, heritage, culture and the town’s centennial.

Donna Lundy related the history of the Memorial Diner, how it began, its growth, and her business today. Wow … what an achievement for Granville!

June 23, Sherry Morrison and Travis Olson were married in the first Lutheran church of Granville. Sherry is a registered nurse at Trinity hospital, and Travis is employed at Des Lacs Valley Nursery. Sherry’s attendants were: Kristen Belgarde (Maid of Honor), Rachel (Luckey) Gruenberg, Chantel Tester, Trisha Boyeff, Amanda Watts, Riley Morrison as her junior bridesmaid. Travis’ groomsmen were: Shawn Huizenga (Best Man), Jared Allard, John Gruenberg, guy Stevens, and Dustin Jost. The couple honeymooned in Hawaii. Congratulations, Sherry and Travis!

Thanks to all of you who helped to make our centennial a grand success! Thanks to the garbage collectors, sign makers, performers, food vendors, port-a-potty cleaners, tent erectors, historic site volunteers, greeters, you name it…everyone who lent a hand…THANK YOU!

See you next week,
Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #19
June 27, 2007 

This morning my husband said to me, “I don’t know why anyone lives in North Dakota. You wait all winter for summer to arrive because it’s too cold, and wait all summer for winter to arrive because it’s too hot!” Don’t we always want what we don’t have?

Congratulations to Vince and Julie Gabel for the arrival of their grandson, Vincent IV, or “Sport,” born on June 6. Sport’s proud parents are Vincent III (Gabe) and Heidi Gabel of Williston. Heidi, who is from Minot, graduated with distinctive honors in May from Iowa State University. Her doctorate degree is in veterinary medicine, and she is employed by Williston Veterinary clinic.

Last Monday, Marlene Larsen and her mother, Gwen Skarstad traveled to West Fargo to visit Kim Hall, Jordan, and Carter. From there they drove to Pelican Lake, Pelican Rapids, and Detroit Lakes in Minnesota. They all had a great time and Marlene and Gwen returned home Thursday evening.

Friday evening, several friends and family of the Larsen’s met at the home of Kyle and Kendra Larsen to celebrate the Kaitlyn’s third birthday. Saturday evening, several friends and Larsen family members attended the wedding of Sherry Morrison and Travis Olson, held at Granville’s First Lutheran Church. Later, they attended a grand reception held at Minot’s International Grand.

Sunday, Leonard and Marlene joined friends and family at the home of Paul and Candy Brekke of Minot to celebrate Carson’s first birthday and Madison Van Grinsven’s tenth birthday.

Friday, I met Vivian Harris from Garrison and her sister Helen Thompson, from Deering at the Memorial Diner. They volunteered to spruce up the park’s picnic table and benches by giving them a new coat of paint. The sisters said that they would be in town most of the week to help with the centennial. Also, Warren and Elaine Smith, from Spokane, Washington, dined with us on Friday. They are visiting Granville this week for the centennial. Warren is Lowell Hanks’ cousin.

Ron Grondahl, Jerome’s uncle, is visiting from Minnesota and will be staying throughout the week with Jerome in rural Granville for the centennial.

Sharon Cummings dined with her New York cousins last week as they were on their way to Rugby.

Friday afternoon, Kenny Cross visited his mother Helga and installed her air conditioner. Helga admitted that she’s much more comfortable now.

Here’s another reminder from me to visit Granville this weekend. There’s going to be so many fun things to do it’ll seem as if you’re at the county fair. See for yourself – log on to www.granvillend.com for a complete listing of fun things to do. See you at the centennial!

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #18
June 20, 2007 

Well, it’s been a quiet week in Granville, with the exception of a few barking dogs and excited friends and neighbors!  Everyone’s settled into their summer routine of coming home from work, lighting the barbeque, and slapping mosquitoes in their back yards.

 June 11, McHenry County Home Extension Economist, Callie Maddock was a speaker at Granville’s Senior Citizen monthly meeting. The subject was “How to Prevent Identity Theft.”  Her topic was very informative and many seniors contributed ideas and asked questions on the subject. Among the many things we learned is that individuals should check their credit reports twice each year to ensure their credit security. Thanks, Callie!

June 14, Lucille Loftesnes, Jarvis Ehart, and Mary Hill spent the afternoon at the Verendrye Electric Cooperative annual meeting advertising Granville’s centennial, June 29 - July 1. Paul and Mary Robinette were also there, selling tickets for an old fashioned Ice Cream Maker that the Ward County Historical Society is raffling this summer for their annual fund raiser.

Last month Mike and Sharon Sitter, and Delano Drader vacationed in Washington State for three weeks. They visited Mike’s cousin-in-law and Darlene Swallers sister, Arlene. They toured the Boeing plant and the Space Needle in Seattle, drove over the beautiful Washington Pass in the Cascade Mountains, traveled through Everett, Marysville, and Arlington, and polka'd at the Sons of Norway hall.

Last Sunday Allen, Arlyss, Eddie Frey, Gary and Merry Green were invited to a Father’s Day supper at Vernon and Shirley Frey’s in Towner.

Vereen Karath traveled to Upham on June 11 to attend a pancake and sausage breakfast benefit for Joe Kaylor. She drove to Four Bears in New Town to participate as a United Church of Christ delegate for the North Dakota/Manitoba UCC conference held June 15 - 17. 

Marlene and Leonard Larsen visited Kyle and Kendra Larsen in Velva last Sunday. Later, they met Brian, Kris, Madison, and Brook Van Grinsven at “Up the Creek” in Minot for a Father’s Day supper. 

Thanks to everyone for your contributions last week for this column. Remember, it’s your column!

Mary

Sunday May 27, Mr. and Mrs. Loren Haugen, Mabel Hoff, and Alpha Hills drove from Williston, ND to visit Helga Cross. Svend and Nyla Sorensen also stopped by to visit Helga that same day.

Welcome back “snow birds” Junior and Arlyss Hiller, we’ve missed you!

According to the May 29 Minot Daily News, the 2006 - 2007 Minot State Board of Regents Staff Achievement Award went to teacher education Administrative Assistant, Judy Bacon for her tireless effort, friendly attitude, and accessibility to students and faculty. Her efficiency at task performing and time management skills, and assistance during Minot State University’s National Council of Accreditation review was invaluable. Congratulations, Judy!

Joyce Vrbka of Alliance, Nebraska was a guest of Vince and Julie Gabel’s last week. Sisters Joyce and Julie had a great time touring Minot and Granville, visiting sites such as the new Wal-Mart, Hobby Lobby, Menards, and Zimbelman’s gifts. Most importantly was the camaraderie that the sisters shared Joyce left Tuesday morning and vowed she would soon return to Granville for another visit.

Thanks to Clione Rollman for acquiring Granville’s centennial certificate signed by President George W. Bush. The certificate hangs on the wall in the city auditor’s office for all to see.

The Granville community would like to express its appreciation to Hope Congregational Women’s Society for planning, preparing, and serving the delicious Memorial Day dinner. We look forward to attending and eating more delicious dinners our centennial celebration such as the Senior citizens’ roast beef dinner on June 29, the Hope Congregational UCC church’s “baked potato” dinner on June 30, and the Mason’s pancake breakfast on July 1. Everyone is welcome!

Remember to purchase a raffle ticket from a Hope UCC Women’s Society member before June 30. You could be the lucky winner of a beautiful quilt made by Vi Gleason, a crocheted doll made by Darlene Swallers, or a quilted table runner made by Merry Green. If you haven’t purchased your ticket yet, call Darlene Swallers at 728-6919.

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #15
May 30, 2007

Last Tuesday Marlene Larsen met daughter Kim Hall and grandsons Jordan and Carter in Carrington. Marlene brought the boys home to visit her and Leonard for a few days. Later that evening, Leonard and Marlene met friends Ron and Billie Klecker, from Albertville, Minnesota, at Speedway in Burlington for supper. Sunday, Kyle, Kendra, and Kaitlyn Larsen visited Leonard and Marlene at the farm.

Last Sunday afternoon, Betty Trana, Olivia Gotvaslee, Nancy Hoffert, Jan Kelleher, Lucille Loftesnes, and two of the Juarez children planted geraniums in whiskey barrels and various containers in downtown Granville, in preparation for our centennial. Later, Lucille invited everyone into her home for afternoon tea, lemonade, cookies, and ice cream bars.

Sunday was a beautiful day (the weather finally cleared up after a week of rain!) for Minot High School’s graduates; especially for honor student Darcie Erickson, daughter of Roberta and Terry Erickson of Minot and the granddaughter of Granville’s Shirley Erickson. Paul and Mary Robinette were invited to the Erickson home for Darcie’s reception and joined friends and neighbors Jack, Audrey, and Sherry Morrison, Shirley Erickson, Vereen Karath, Danette and Ashley Frounfelter, Carleen and Danielle Larsen, Jo Kraft and grandson Michael, and Winona Evens of Granville. Also attending were Gayla and Audrey Hanson of Minot, Dennis and Karla Erickson and sons of Max, and Darcie’s sisters.

Granville residents express their deepest sympathy to the friends and family of Rose Johnson who passed away last week. Her funeral was last Friday at the First Lutheran church of Granville.

Folks, thanks for sending me your news which makes me able to continue writing this column. See you next week.

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #14
May 23, 2007 

It’s a little blustery and rainy, but no snow so far this month! It’s also still too cold out to plant flowers or tomatoes so we’d better stick to that “Memorial Day” rule.

Last Sunday, which was Mother’s Day, Joyce and Gerry Deibert of Minot, invited Joyce’s mother, Betty Trana, Gerry’s mother, Rose Deibert, their daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Bakken and Betty’s great-granddaughter, Shiana for supper and birthday cake in honor of Shiana’s fifteenth birthday,            which was Friday, May 11.

Monday May 14, Maggie Woodall, daughter of David and Kathy Woodall of Deering, was inducted into the National Honor Society.

We are saddened to hear of the death of Kathy Woodall’s mother and Eileen Brummond’s sister, Wanda Mae Forbes, who succumbed to cancer after a very brave fight. She died Monday, May 14 and her funeral was held on Friday, May 18 in Sawyer. Granville sends its very deepest sympathy to the Woodall and Brummond families.

Sunday May 20, Marlene Larsen and her sister Lynnette Olson visited with their mother Gwen Skarstad in Minot. We hope you are feeling better, Gwen.

Confirmation was held at Granville’s First Lutheran Church on Sunday May 20 and officiated by Pastor Curt Hanson. The Confirmants included: Hallie, Taylor, and Wyatt Bachmeier, Dillon Jesz, Brendon Self, Travis Smette, and Kristi Tonnessen.

Saturday May 19, Paul and Mary Robinette attended the wedding of Christina Campbell and Lane Sunwall held at Trinity Church in Minot. They also attended their beautiful reception which was held at the Carnegie Center. Christina and Lane are both fellow Board members with Paul and Mary of the Ward County Historical Society.

Sunday May 20 two middle school and two high school students of TGU Granville were awarded the honor of being selected as the Students of the Year at the 2007 graduation ceremony. Ashley Frounfelter and Ashley Brodehl tied in the seventh and eighth grade category, Karlee Brummond was selected for the ninth and tenth grade category, and Kelsey Self was selected for the eleventh and twelfth grade category. Congratulations students!

 lso on Sunday the graduation of TGU Granville’s class of 2007 was held. A combination of excitement, laughter, and anxiety filled the air as the graduates walked down the aisle and up the steps to the stage; and an air of anticipation, happiness, and a little sorrow was in the room as they climbed down the steps and out of the room. Congratulations to Jesse Frederickson, Kylie Kaylor, Courtney Larsen,  Cole Lasher, Reba Neuhalfen, Roger Neuhalfen, Derek Seright, Lexi Swallers, and Michelle Woodall. Valedictorian Lexi Swallers said,” With stars in our eyes and dreams in our heads we go…” Yes, keep those stars in your eyes and dreams in your heads because you’re only young once, and you will never pass this way again. Oh, one other thing, please don’t forget to phone home and come back home once in awhile! 

Thanks again folks, Mary.

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #13
May 16, 2007

It’s good to be a Mom, isn’t it? For that matter, it’s good to be a son or daughter, too! I hope everyone had a wonderful Mothers' Day.

Friday May 4, Marlene Larsen, her sister Lynnette Olson, and their mother Gwen Skarstad traveled to Grand Forks for the wedding of Jessica Lee and Ben Riepl. On Saturday May 5, the three were invited to Devil’s Lake for a dance recital for Cayley Olson, Lynnette’s granddaughter. Later that evening they were invited to have supper with Curt and Genelle Olson, Gordon and Darlene Dahl, and Ginger Lautenschlager. Monday May 7, Leonard, Marlene, and Kaitlyn Larsen dined in Minot at Applebee’s for supper. Sunday May 13, Leonard and Marlene Larsen joined Bryan, Kris, Madison, and Brooke Van Grinsven at the Grand International in Minot for Mother’s Day Dinner.

Thursday May 3, the Hope UCC Church of Granville held its Women’s Society meeting and planned their annual Memorial Day Chicken Noodle Dinner fundraiser. It will be held May 28 and all are welcome to attend immediately after the 11:00 am Memorial Day service at the TGU Granville School.

Thursday May 10, the Women’s Society of the First Lutheran Church of Granville met and discussed the upcoming High School Seniors and Confirmants banquet that is to be held today, May 16.

Paul and Mary Robinette invited Vereen Karath to supper in their home on Mother’s Day.

Folks, thanks for sharing your life with your neighbors, I’ll talk to you next week.

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #12
May 9, 2007

The weather was absolutely beautiful last week, including the rain. I welcome the changing season; it’s like a breath of fresh air, exciting and cool.

On Saturday April 28, Ken Trana, from Carson, ND, visited his mother Betty, Sister Joyce, brother-in law Gerry, and Brother Harlan in Granville. They all went to supper that evening at the White Buffalo Lounge. Ken remained overnight and conducted Sunday church services in White Shield, ND, and then drove home.

On Saturday afternoon April 28, Helga Cross was visited by Nyla Sorensen from rural Granville.

Congratulations to those lucky winners whose names were drawn for the VFW raffle on May 1: Carol Mohagen, Tony McMahon, Terry Tonnessen, Sherman Plasden, D. Vitko, Liz Johnson, Angie Ward, Kathy Nelson, Stan Kavekoul, Rod Appelt, Cora Jesz, Lanetta Olson, John Larsen, and Al Hanson.

“Senior Skip Day” was celebrated on May 1 by the Class of 2007. Jesse Fredrickson, Kylie Kaylor, Courtney Larsen, Cole Lasher, Reba Neuhalfen, Roger Neuhalfen, Derek Seright, Lexi Swallers, and Michelle Woodall spent the day in Minot. They went swimming at “Splashdown,” ate lunch at “Grizzly’s, and shopped ‘til they dropped!''

Linda Smette and Nancy Mueller attended a “Regional League of Cities” meeting in Rugby on Wednesday May2.

The Women’s Society of Granville’s UCC Congregational Church held its annual Spring Tea on Wednesday May 2. Entertainment was provided by TGU Granville’s Junior/Senior choir and the speaker for the event was Joanne Buriak and her topic was “A Prairie Woman Speaks.” Coffee, punch, sandwiches, brownies and ice cream was served.

The TGU School Board elections were held at TGU Granville School on Thursday, May 3.

Last week my mother-in law called me and wanted me to put something in my column. She said, “Tell the person who picked up my BBQ grill (that had been knocked down during a windstorm) thanks for picking it up and moving it back where it belongs.” I replied, “You’re welcome!”

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News
May 2, 2007 #11

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            Spring is here! Now we can complain about the dry weather and the heat!

            April 20 Betty Trana rode with Joyce and Gerald Deibert to Bismarck for the funeral of Michael Hovrud, her great-grandchildren’s father. Being a veteran, he was buried in Mandan’s Veteran’s cemetery where they also attended the graveside ceremony.

            Evelyn Schell, Agnes’ sister-in-law from Minot, visited her Friday, April 20, for the weekend. While visiting Agnes, she also called on Eva Duchscherer Tuesday before returning to Minot that evening.

            A group of Seniors gathered at the Center on April 23 for “Social Day” for lunch, Bingo and cards. Those who attended included: Betty Trana, Helga Cross, Mike Sitter, Elsie Jacobson, Mary Misek, Al Misek, Elvera Dilley, Peg Larson, Eva Duchscherer, Gordon and Edna Rollman, Jarvis Ehart, Bill and Selma Bachmeier, Darlene Swallers, and Mary Robinette.

            The McHenry County Commission on Aging held its quarterly meeting on April 24 at the Senior Center in Drake. A delicious lunch of roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans and dessert was served to seniors from Anamoose, Drake, Velva, and Deering, Surrey, Sawyer, and Karlsruhe. Granville attendees were: Betty Trana, Elvera and Glenn Dilley, Jarvis Ehart, Vereen Karath, Darlene Swallers, Eva Duchscherer, Bill and Selma Bachmeier, Mike Sitter and Mary Robinette. Reverend Adine Harsch was the invited speaker for the event. The topic of discussion was acquiring better medical and care and eyeglasses for Seniors in North Dakota.

            April 24, Paul Robinette celebrated his birthday by writing a mountain’s worth of lecture notes, book reviews, and semester papers! He did manage to break away during the evening to eat his free Paradiso’s birthday meal. Later that weekend, he did receive gifts and a homemade birthday cake. Happy birthday Paul!

            Last Friday afternoon, Paul and Mary Robinette had coffee at the Memorial diner with Betty Smith, Nancy Mueller, Agnes Schell, and Darlene Moen, Agnes’ daughter from Beulah. Darlene and her husband Loy were visiting Agnes over the weekend and helped her with her gardening.

            Friday afternoon Vereen Karath was one of several volunteers who were honored at a reception held by First District Health for their volunteer services at last Fall’s Flu Shot clinic. This is the second year that Vereen has volunteered her services at the clinic.

                        Last Friday, Sherry Edwardson drove Darlene Swallers to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Washburn and then to Bismarck to visit Darlene’s sister-in law, Vada Kingsley, in Bismarck for Darlene’s birthday. Afterward, Darlene and Sherry dined at Red Lobster. In the meantime, Rick, Lori, Doug, and Shayla Swallers installed a new garage door opener while Darlene was gone! Happy birthday Darlene!

            Saturday, Darlene Swallers, Phyllis Hudson, Lucille Loftesnes, Vereen Karath and Mary Robinette were guests at the Minot UCC Church’s Women’s Salad Luncheon. Former Granvillite, Pat Heine also attended and enjoyed the wonderful food and beautiful entertainment provided by Minot State University.

            Our sympathies are extended to the family of Agnes Bailey of Denbigh, who passed away April 27. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News
April 25, 2007 #10

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Last Sunday the Senior Citizens hosted a well attended card party in Granville. Pinochle, Maneuvers, and Whist was played by over forty people from Upham to Velva. Coffee and cookies were served during a break and a macaroni hot dish with rolls, Jell-O, and dessert supper was served following the party. Among the guests were former Granvillites Gaye and Audrey Hansen and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Johnson.  

Gordy and Julie Rollman of Williston visited parents Gordon and Edna Rollman April 13 as they returned from a business trip in Fargo.

Raquel Dugan Dibble was a guest speaker during the Spring Gardening Seminar, which was conducted April 16 from 10:00 until noon.  Topics included were: How and where to plant spring flowers, choosing flower types suitable for our area, and choosing flowers that would attract butterflies and birds.  Other guest speakers were: Nancy Jensen, a plant material agronomist from Bismarck, who related very useful information on planting and growing native and ornamental grasses, and wildflowers. Some very good tips on garden and lawn landscaping were passed on to Granville residents by Upper RC & D Alan Pfliger of Bottineau and Bill Hodous, a Ramsey County Extension Agent. Thanks to the McHenry County Extension Agent, Raquel Dugan Dibble for making this possible for us to enjoy.

Last Tuesday Del Drader drove a lively group of Senior citizens to Minot where they boarded a bus to Four Bears Casino.  They all had a great time, winning and losing; and all returned home in the late afternoon, tired but happy!

Last Wednesday Senior citizens from Velva, Deering, Norwich, Towner, and Upham gathered at the Granville center and were treated to Bingo, prizes, and afternoon snacks by Western State Bank. Heartfelt thanks go out to the Western State Bank employees and volunteers who helped make this an event for the seniors to remember.

Last Saturday friends of Agnes Schell gathered at the Memorial Diner to celebrate her 89^th birthday. Guests included were: Betty Jones, Jean Sanders, Eva Duchsherer, Laurel Livingston, Ruby Boutilier, Vivian and Helen from Deering and Evelyn Schell. Agnes’ birthday was actually in January, but she was too busy touring Arizona and Texas to celebrate her birthday on time! Happy birthday, Agnes!

Please don’t forget to attend the Senior Citizens Pancake and Sausage fundraiser breakfast next Sunday, April 29, at the Senior Center.

Well folks, when you’re looking outside at the rain, remember that April showers bring beautiful May flowers, and we need flowers to beautify our yards for our Centennial. And yes, of course, the crops! Please keep your phone calls coming for our column.  I’ll talk to you next week,

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #9
April 18 , 2007

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #8
April 11, 2007 

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #7
April 4, 2007 

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 Friday, March 16^th, several residents of the Granville - Velva area attended the funeral of Emil Schock. Afterward, Leonard and Marlene visited Alf Larsen at the Souris Valley Care Center.

Sunday, March 18^th, Marlene Larsen and Gwen Skarsted were luncheon guests of Kris, Madison, and Brooke Van Grinsven. Also, Nyla and Christina Sorensen visited Helga Cross Sunday afternoon.

Tuesday, March 20^th, Leonard and Marlene Larsen hosted a party for Julia Larsen’s 94^th birthday! It was held at her new home on the outskirts of Minot. Those who attended were Brothers Lawrence and Ingvold (and wife Olga) Odland of Minot, and Pastor Rolland Rogness and his wife, Marylou.

 Friday, March 23^rd, Helga Cross was visited by Kenny Cross during the afternoon.

 Saturday, March 24^th, Dick and Donna Lundy hosted the Big 02 birthday party for grandson Larry Lundy in their home. The menu consisted of hot dogs and hamburgers with trimmings. Larry’s grandparents, brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts and uncles attended.

Also on Saturday, Leonard and Marlene Larsen, and Leonard’s sister and brother-in-law attended the homecoming ceremony for Leonard’s nephew, Guy Stevens, who is a member of the 164^th Engineering Battalion Company A, of Minot. I’m sure that most of you remember their homecoming last November, but this formal celebration held at the All Seasons Arena in Minot, was to formally recognize their heroic deeds and award them. Granville’s Jeremiah Trana, Mitchell Cowell, and James Overlie were awarded as well as Guy. Congratulations Guy, Mitch, Jeremiah, and James, good work! Four members of Granville’s American Legion also were present for the ceremony, supporting our troops. Thanks!

Afterward, Kim Hall of West Fargo, Kris, Madison, and Brooke Van Grinsven, Kyle, Kendra, and Kaitlyn Larsen of Velva, and Leonard and Marlene all visited Grandma Julia Larsen.

See you next week!

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #5
March 21, 2007 

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           ‘Erin go Brah’ and the top of the morning to yer! 

Saturday is St. Patrick’s Day, so don’t get caught without your green!

Congratulations to Lucille Loftesnes and Leon Ofstun! They received the “atta boy” award for the month of March. Each receives a prize of a free hamburger and french fry meal from Donna at the Granville Memorial Diner. Lucille has spent countless hours working with the Centennial committee and Leon helps out the townspeople in Granville and at school. Lots of thanks to you both!

Unfortunately, Eva Duchsherer did not have the luck of the Irish this month.  Last Wednesday, as she was getting out of her car and walking to the door of the Senior Citizens center for lunch, Eva slipped, fell, and broke her wrist. She was taken to Trinity Hospital by ambulance and had surgery the next day. However, she was released the following day. She is now well on her way to recovery.  

Russell Boutilier has had a bit of bad luck as well. He was in the hospital a few weeks ago, but is now in St. Joseph’s/Trinity Rehabilitation. Give him a phone call if you can.  

Granville was humming with activity this past weekend with the Mylo Jones Annual Memorial Scholarship Pool Tournament.  Next week I will report the winners. 

Sorry that this is a bit late, but I thought you would like to know that the Frey Beef Sale held on February 14^th was a brimming success. The Women’s Society of the Hope Congregational Church helped serve the luncheon and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. 

That’s all for this week; keep those calls coming!

Mary

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #3
March 7, 2007

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It seems the weather spoiled everybody’s fun this week.

The Hope Congregation UCC Women’s Society cancelled their Thursday meeting, on Friday the noon meal was cancelled at the Senior Citizen’s center, as well as school because of the weather.  But, the farmers need the moisture this spring.  

Lucille Loftesness visited Helga Cross a week ago Sunday.  Ken Trana spent Sunday night at his mother’s home, as he had spent the morning ministering to a congregation in New Town.  Sunday evening Betty had daughter Joyce and son-in-law Gerry Deibert join her and Ken for supper.  Ken left for Carson Monday morning.  

Vereen Karath has been dividing her spare time between volunteering for the Red Cross and Community Action’s V.I.T.A. (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), at the Parker Center in Minot, Tuesday thru Thursday from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. She was a Red Cross volunteer at the Home and Garden show this past Saturday.

 There was a great crowd at the Community Center on Saturday evening for the roast beef supper and dance the Granville Boosters had for their annual fundraiser! I hope they made a tidy sum toward the purchase of new playground equipment. 

Mary Robinette and Vereen Karath went to Minot last Sunday to see the Mouse River Player’s Orphan Train in the Arlene Saugstad Theater. It was a wonderful performance even though we had seats in the outfield. I shouldn’t complain; they were padded!

 Folks, that wraps it up for the week, heat my phone line up with some neighborhood news! Don’t forget the Milo Jones Pool Tournament, March 9 – 10^th at the Community Center!

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Mouse River Journal
Granville News #2
February 28, 2007

Granville had lots of activity this week!

Helga Cross was visited by Eva Duchsherer last Saturday, Sven and Ida Sorenson on Sunday and her son, Kenny, on Monday, which brightened up her week!

Last Sunday, Vereen Karath traveled to Upham for the volunteer Fire Department’s annual Turkey Dinner fundraiser. While there she visited great-nephew Zac Christianson, great-nieces, Brooke and Kortni, niece Lisa and nephew Steve Plorin, Orline Badke, Maddie, Dillon, and Rick Rosenau.

Rod, Debbie, John, and Kyle Swallers traveled to Puerta Vallarta, Mexico, last week for a business trip. Meanwhile, Lexi spent time visiting Grandmas Eileen and Darlene.

Paul and Mary Robinette celebrated their fortieth wedding anniversary on February 3, 2007. (Thanks for the memories, Rob)!

Oh, how wonderful to have a café in Granville! Gathering at the Memorial Diner for Sunday lunch last week were Granvillites: Delano Drader, Jarvis Ehart, Mike and Sharon Sitter, Paul and Mary Robinette, Lexi Swallers, Eileen Brummond, Darlene Swallers, Agnes (Peg) Larson, and Lucille Loftesness. Just a sampling of Donna’s customers who appreciate her fine, Sunday hospitality!

Wednesday, Paul and Mary Robinette and Vereen Karath traveled to Grand Forks, where Paul is doing his graduate work at the University of North Dakota. Mary had an appointment at the VA hospital in Fargo on Friday afternoon. After eating at the Olive Garden they returned home to Granville Friday evening.

Mary

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Propane Emergency
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Propane Information:
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