Technology is a pretty amazing thing. In the last century we have gone from horses to horsepower and the telegraph to the Internet. So many dreams from centuries past have become reality as man developed the capability of powered flight and even landed on the moon. There are very few people in our country whose standard of living has not been advanced by all of the new gadgets in the last 40 years. The age of electronics has been absolutely mind blowing. Just think of the progress, better yet, ask an older person to describe his or her childhood for you and the work they did when they were young. In most career fields we are required to do much less manual work and we can cover much more ground and complete much more work in far less time. Food is more plentiful and the medical field has made tremendous strides in keeping people healthy and improving quality of life. So where has technology failed us? From governments to their people, all races, creed and color have failed to find a way to use technology to stop senseless killing. Wars still rage all over the world and violent crime now comes with automatic weapons fire. Then there are the terrorist organizations that move in small numbers but use all of the technology available against civilians. We did use technology to stop the Hitler, Hirohito, and to stem the spread of communism. Just our technological superiority has deterred many potential enemies from moving against us. Technology has helped us to monitor our enemies and fight crime more effectively. So where did technology fail us? It didn’t, we did. As our world became a better place, the dark side of human nature tried to take control, and we have moved to stop them. We have worked to use our technology to help this world rather than harm it. Our "smart" weapons have limited the number of civilian casualties in the latest war substantially. The nature of past conflicts and the less sophisticated weapons caused far more casualties to civilians; it was the nature of the conflict. But in 2003 the mainstream press can turn one errant bomb into an atrocity because the war was not on the scale of, say, World War II. So what is my point this time? Our country, our military, and our very way of life are at war. This is a broad based war unlike any we have ever seen. The enemy is not confined to one country but moves like a shadow. Many of our local guard members are now being activated to fill slots left vacant by units moved into the combat zone. There are questions on weapons of mass destruction and intelligence sources. I feel that in time these will be answered. As a country we cannot start to bicker about what we don’t know. Personally, I am not privy to the files of the FBI, the CIA, or military intelligence from Iraq. Most of us are not on the "need to know" list. The fact is that we do not have the right to know everything that goes on. We need to remember that in our modern world many of the greatest threats are unseen by most of us. We also need to remember what these unseen threats did to us less than two years ago and what it did to our souls the day the towers fell. We must keep momentum behind our forces. Those that wish to undermine the mission to keep us safe will take advantage of a lack of public support if we allow them to. Support our men and women, they serve us.Curtis Hendel,Adrian

We would just like to take this time to tell you what great kids we have in our community. Last Friday we had the privilege of working with 49 young people from Pipestone and Luverne. This was the peer helping group. They were doing a one-day retreat. As part of the retreat, they volunteered to help with the Palace. The peer helpers helped us in such great magnitude. They helped clean the basement and rid it of years of junk. They scrubbed every seat; hand mopped the floor and the stage. They cleaned the dressing rooms, hauled old seats to the museum and many other tasks. The most fun was that they had a good time. Never did we hear, "I’m not doing that." We always heard, "What else needs to be done?" The students enjoyed a requested tour of the Palace. In the evening they had a private showing of the movie, "Holes."We can’t thank the peer helpers and adult leaders enough. When adults take the time to get involved in student’s lives, everyone is a winner. Parents, thanks for sharing your kids for the day. They are all great kids.Dianne Ossenfort Dave SmithLaDonna Van AartsenBoard Members of Blue Mound Area Theatre

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF CONTRACT FOR DEEDDATED: January 24, 2003TO: TRAVIS LANE HOWARD AND CINDI RUTH BROWNTHIS NOTICE IS TO INFORM YOU THAT BY THIS NOTICE THE SELLER HAS BEGUN PROCEEDINGS UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 559.21, TO TERMINATE YOUR CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF YOUR PROPERTY FOR THE REASONS SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE. THE CONTRACT WILL TERMINATE 90 DAYS AFTER SERVICE OF THIS NOTICE UPON YOU UNLESS BEFORE THEN:(a) THE PERSON AUTHORIZED IN THIS NOTICE TO RECEIVE PAYMENT RECEIVES FROM YOU:(1) THE AMOUNT THIS NOTICE SAYS YOU OWE; PLUS(2) THE COSTS OF SERVICE (TO BE SENT TO YOU); PLUS(3) $500.00 TO APPLY TO ATTORNEY’S FEES ACTUALLY EXPENDED OR INCURRED; PLUS(4) FOR CONTRACTS EXECUTED ON OR AFTER MAY 1, 1980, ANY ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS BECOMING DUE UNDER THE CONTRACT TO THE SELLER AFTER THIS NOTICE WAS SERVED ON YOU; PLUS(5) FOR CONTRACTS, OTHER THAN EARNEST MONEY CONTRACTS, PURCHASE AGREEMENTS, AND EXERCISED OPTIONS, EXECUTED ON OR AFTER AUGUST 1, 1985, $34.00 (WHICH IS TWO PERCENT OF THE AMOUNT IN DEFAULT AT THE TIME OF SERVICE OTHER THAN THE FINAL BALLOON PAYMENT; ANY TAXES, ASSESSMENTS, MORTGAGES OR PRIOR CONTRACTS THAT ARE ASSUMED BY YOU); OR(b) YOU SECURE FROM A COUNTY OR DISTRICT COURT AN ORDER THAT THE TERMINATION OF THE CONTRACT BE SUSPENDED UNTIL YOUR CLAIMS OR DEFENSES ARE FINALLY DISPOSED OF BY TRIAL, HEARING OR SETTLEMENT. YOUR ACTION MUST SPECIFICALLY STATE THOSE FACTS AND GROUNDS THAT DEMONSTRATE YOUR CLAIMS OR DEFENSES. IF YOU DO NOT DO ONE OR THE OTHER OF THE ABOVE THINGS WITHIN THE TIME PERIOD SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE, YOUR CONTRACT WILL TERMINATE AT THE END OF THE PERIOD AND YOU WILL LOSE ALL THE MONEY YOU HAVE PAID ON THE CONTRACT; YOU WILL LOSE YOUR RIGHT TO POSSESSION OF THE PROPERTY; YOU MAY LOSE YOUR RIGHT TO ASSERT ANY CLAIMS OR DEFENSES THAT YOU MIGHT HAVE; AND YOU WILL BE EVICTED. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS NOTICE, CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY.THE PERSON AUTHORIZED TO RECEIVE PAYMENTS PURSUANT TO THIS NOTICE IS: Paul A. Vis Eisma and Eisma 130 E. Main, PO Box 625 Luverne, Minnesota 56156 (507)283-4828YOU ARE HEREBY FURTHER NOTIFIED: That default has been made in the conditions of that certain contract, dated November 19, 2001, whereby John W. Vis and Margie Vis, husband and wife, as vendors sold and agreed to convey to Travis Lane Howard and Cindi Ruth Brown, as vendees, the tract of land lying in the County of Rock, State of Minnesota, described as follows, to wit: The North Half (N1/2) of Lot Eight (8) and the South One-Quarter (S1/4) of Lot Nine (9), Block Sixteen (16) in Warren and Kniss Addition to the City of Luverne, Minnesota.That the mortgage registration tax on said contract in the sum of $0.00 was paid to the Treasurer of Rock County, Minnesota, on the __ day of ___, 20___, as evidenced by the Treasurer’s receipt No. N/A; that the conditions of said contract in which said default has been made are as follows, to wit:4. PURCHASE PRICE. Purchaser shall pay to Seller, at Seller’s residence or otherwise agreed upon by the Parties the sum of Thirty-nine Thousand and no/100 ($39,000.00), as and for the purchase price for the Property payable as follows:$ 400.00 cash herewith, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged.$38,600.00 Balance of purchase price payable as follows: In monthly installments of interest and principal of $400.00 commencing on the 1st day of January 1, 2002, and continuing on the 1st day of each and every month thereafter until November 1, 2011, at which time the entire unpaid principal balance and any accrued interest shall become fully due and payable, all with interest computed on the unpaid principal balance from December 1, 2001 at the rate of 8.50% PER ANNUM with each installment applied first to accrued interest and balance, if any, to principal according to the herewith attached amortization schedule which is hereby made a part of this contract.PURCHASERS ARE DELINQUENT ON PAYMENTS HEREUNDER IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,700.00, WHICH IS 4 1/4 MONTHS OF PAYMENTS, WITH THE NEXT PAYMENT BEING DUE FEBRUARY 1, 2003. 6. REAL ESTATE TAXES AND ASSESSMENTS. Seller shall pay, before penalty accrues, 12/12 of the real estate taxes and installments of special assessments assessed against the Property which are due and payable in the year 2001 and buyer shall pay 0/12 of the real estate taxes and installments of special assessments assessed against the Property which are due and payable in the year 2001 and in all subsequent years. Real Estate taxes and installments of special assessments which are due and payable in the year in which this contract is dated shall be paid as follows: 2002 Purchaser shall pay 100% of the real estate taxes and special assessments due and payable in 2002 and all years thereafter. PURCHASERS DID NOT PAY THE PROPERTY TAXES DUE AND PAYABLE IN 2002 FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE AMOUNT OF $675.91, WHICH AMOUNT INCLUDES AN $87.91 PENALTY.7. PROPERTY INSURANCE.(a) INSURED RISKS AND AMOUNT. Purchaser shall keep all buildings, improvements and fixtures now or later located on or a part of the Property insured against loss by fire, extended coverage perils, vandalism, malicious mischief and, if applicable, steam boiler explosion for at least the amount of the fair and reasonable value of the above-described property. If any of the buildings, improvements or fixtures located in a federally designated flood prone area, and if flood insurance is available for that area, Purchaser shall procure and maintain flood insurance in amounts reasonably satisfactory to Seller. (b) OTHER TERMS. The insurance policy shall contain a loss payable clause in favor of Seller which provides that Seller’s right to recover under the insurance shall not be impaired by any acts or omissions of Purchaser or Seller, and that Seller shall otherwise be afforded all rights and privileges customarily provided a mortgagee under the so-called standard mortgage clause.(c) NOTICE OF DAMAGES. In the event of damage to the property by fire or other casualty, Purchaser shall promptly give notice of such damage to Seller and the insurance company. PURCHASERS ALLOWED PROPERTY INSURANCE TO LAPSE AS OF JANUARY 15, 2003.and that said contract will be cancelled and terminated 90 days after the date of the first publication of this notice unless prior thereto you comply with said conditions of said contract so in default and pay the costs of service of this notice and attorney’s fees* in the amount of $500.00 actually expended or incurred by the undersigned, and the mortgage tax of $0.00 (if paid by vendor).**See Minn. Stat. 559.21 /S/and Chapter 240, 1996 Sessions Laws. Paul A. Vis, Attorney for the Vendors 130 East Main, PO Box 625 Luverne, Minnesota (507)283-4828This Instrument Drafted By:Paul A. VisEisma and Eisma130 East Main, PO Box 625Luverne, Minnesota 56156I.D.#297550(7-31, 8-7)

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF CONTRACT FOR DEEDDATED: January 24, 2003TO: TRAVIS LANE HOWARD AND CINDI RUTH BROWNTHIS NOTICE IS TO INFORM YOU THAT BY THIS NOTICE THE SELLER HAS BEGUN PROCEEDINGS UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 559.21, TO TERMINATE YOUR CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF YOUR PROPERTY FOR THE REASONS SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE. THE CONTRACT WILL TERMINATE 90 DAYS AFTER SERVICE OF THIS NOTICE UPON YOU UNLESS BEFORE THEN:(a) THE PERSON AUTHORIZED IN THIS NOTICE TO RECEIVE PAYMENT RECEIVES FROM YOU:(1) THE AMOUNT THIS NOTICE SAYS YOU OWE; PLUS(2) THE COSTS OF SERVICE (TO BE SENT TO YOU); PLUS(3) $500.00 TO APPLY TO ATTORNEY’S FEES ACTUALLY EXPENDED OR INCURRED; PLUS(4) FOR CONTRACTS EXECUTED ON OR AFTER MAY 1, 1980, ANY ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS BECOMING DUE UNDER THE CONTRACT TO THE SELLER AFTER THIS NOTICE WAS SERVED ON YOU; PLUS(5) FOR CONTRACTS, OTHER THAN EARNEST MONEY CONTRACTS, PURCHASE AGREEMENTS, AND EXERCISED OPTIONS, EXECUTED ON OR AFTER AUGUST 1, 1985, $34.00 (WHICH IS TWO PERCENT OF THE AMOUNT IN DEFAULT AT THE TIME OF SERVICE OTHER THAN THE FINAL BALLOON PAYMENT; ANY TAXES, ASSESSMENTS, MORTGAGES OR PRIOR CONTRACTS THAT ARE ASSUMED BY YOU); OR(b) YOU SECURE FROM A COUNTY OR DISTRICT COURT AN ORDER THAT THE TERMINATION OF THE CONTRACT BE SUSPENDED UNTIL YOUR CLAIMS OR DEFENSES ARE FINALLY DISPOSED OF BY TRIAL, HEARING OR SETTLEMENT. YOUR ACTION MUST SPECIFICALLY STATE THOSE FACTS AND GROUNDS THAT DEMONSTRATE YOUR CLAIMS OR DEFENSES. IF YOU DO NOT DO ONE OR THE OTHER OF THE ABOVE THINGS WITHIN THE TIME PERIOD SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE, YOUR CONTRACT WILL TERMINATE AT THE END OF THE PERIOD AND YOU WILL LOSE ALL THE MONEY YOU HAVE PAID ON THE CONTRACT; YOU WILL LOSE YOUR RIGHT TO POSSESSION OF THE PROPERTY; YOU MAY LOSE YOUR RIGHT TO ASSERT ANY CLAIMS OR DEFENSES THAT YOU MIGHT HAVE; AND YOU WILL BE EVICTED. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS NOTICE, CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY.THE PERSON AUTHORIZED TO RECEIVE PAYMENTS PURSUANT TO THIS NOTICE IS: Paul A. Vis Eisma and Eisma 130 E. Main, PO Box 625 Luverne, Minnesota 56156 (507)283-4828YOU ARE HEREBY FURTHER NOTIFIED: That default has been made in the conditions of that certain contract, dated November 19, 2001, whereby John W. Vis and Margie Vis, husband and wife, as vendors sold and agreed to convey to Travis Lane Howard and Cindi Ruth Brown, as vendees, the tract of land lying in the County of Rock, State of Minnesota, described as follows, to wit: The North Half (N1/2) of Lot Eight (8) and the South One-Quarter (S1/4) of Lot Nine (9), Block Sixteen (16) in Warren and Kniss Addition to the City of Luverne, Minnesota.That the mortgage registration tax on said contract in the sum of $0.00 was paid to the Treasurer of Rock County, Minnesota, on the __ day of ___, 20___, as evidenced by the Treasurer’s receipt No. N/A; that the conditions of said contract in which said default has been made are as follows, to wit:4. PURCHASE PRICE. Purchaser shall pay to Seller, at Seller’s residence or otherwise agreed upon by the Parties the sum of Thirty-nine Thousand and no/100 ($39,000.00), as and for the purchase price for the Property payable as follows:$ 400.00 cash herewith, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged.$38,600.00 Balance of purchase price payable as follows: In monthly installments of interest and principal of $400.00 commencing on the 1st day of January 1, 2002, and continuing on the 1st day of each and every month thereafter until November 1, 2011, at which time the entire unpaid principal balance and any accrued interest shall become fully due and payable, all with interest computed on the unpaid principal balance from December 1, 2001 at the rate of 8.50% PER ANNUM with each installment applied first to accrued interest and balance, if any, to principal according to the herewith attached amortization schedule which is hereby made a part of this contract.PURCHASERS ARE DELINQUENT ON PAYMENTS HEREUNDER IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,700.00, WHICH IS 4 1/4 MONTHS OF PAYMENTS, WITH THE NEXT PAYMENT BEING DUE FEBRUARY 1, 2003. 6. REAL ESTATE TAXES AND ASSESSMENTS. Seller shall pay, before penalty accrues, 12/12 of the real estate taxes and installments of special assessments assessed against the Property which are due and payable in the year 2001 and buyer shall pay 0/12 of the real estate taxes and installments of special assessments assessed against the Property which are due and payable in the year 2001 and in all subsequent years. Real Estate taxes and installments of special assessments which are due and payable in the year in which this contract is dated shall be paid as follows: 2002 Purchaser shall pay 100% of the real estate taxes and special assessments due and payable in 2002 and all years thereafter. PURCHASERS DID NOT PAY THE PROPERTY TAXES DUE AND PAYABLE IN 2002 FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE AMOUNT OF $675.91, WHICH AMOUNT INCLUDES AN $87.91 PENALTY.7. PROPERTY INSURANCE.(a) INSURED RISKS AND AMOUNT. Purchaser shall keep all buildings, improvements and fixtures now or later located on or a part of the Property insured against loss by fire, extended coverage perils, vandalism, malicious mischief and, if applicable, steam boiler explosion for at least the amount of the fair and reasonable value of the above-described property. If any of the buildings, improvements or fixtures located in a federally designated flood prone area, and if flood insurance is available for that area, Purchaser shall procure and maintain flood insurance in amounts reasonably satisfactory to Seller. (b) OTHER TERMS. The insurance policy shall contain a loss payable clause in favor of Seller which provides that Seller’s right to recover under the insurance shall not be impaired by any acts or omissions of Purchaser or Seller, and that Seller shall otherwise be afforded all rights and privileges customarily provided a mortgagee under the so-called standard mortgage clause.(c) NOTICE OF DAMAGES. In the event of damage to the property by fire or other casualty, Purchaser shall promptly give notice of such damage to Seller and the insurance company. PURCHASERS ALLOWED PROPERTY INSURANCE TO LAPSE AS OF JANUARY 15, 2003.and that said contract will be cancelled and terminated 90 days after the date of the first publication of this notice unless prior thereto you comply with said conditions of said contract so in default and pay the costs of service of this notice and attorney’s fees* in the amount of $500.00 actually expended or incurred by the undersigned, and the mortgage tax of $0.00 (if paid by vendor).**See Minn. Stat. 559.21 /S/and Chapter 240, 1996 Sessions Laws. Paul A. Vis, Attorney for the Vendors 130 East Main, PO Box 625 Luverne, Minnesota (507)283-4828This Instrument Drafted By:Paul A. VisEisma and Eisma130 East Main, PO Box 625Luverne, Minnesota 56156I.D.#297550(7-31, 8-7)

10 years ago (1993)"Two local fastpitch teams competed at the 18 and Under State Tournaments in Duluth July 23-25.Members of the Steen squad collected a second-place ranking while the Beaver Creek boys captured fifth-place honors." 25 years ago (1978)"Gene Juffer, Hills, has established a branch studio for Baird Photography, Mitchell, S.D., to serve Hills, Beaver Creek, Valley Springs, S.D., Steen, Lester, Iowa, and the surrounding areas.The Mitchell studio of Baird Photography Inc, has been in business for more than 25 years and has developed a strong reputation throughout central South Dakota."50 years ago (1953)"Work on TH 270 has been making more rapid progress the past week. The crew now has about three miles to complete and some more to put the finishing touches to. Adverse conditions made the job for contractor, John S. Pukrop of Ivanhoe, very difficult. The job has tied up work there much longer than was considered necessary."75 years ago (1928)"Thugs and hold-up men are again getting in their work. Last week a gas station in Luverne was robbed, and three gas stations in Larchwood."100 years ago (1903)"Ashcreek voted at the annual school meeting to build an additional room to their schoolhouse, giving them a semi-graded school and putting them in line for the $250 state aid."

Villagers celebrated a very, very special birthday with lots of relatives and friends of Marie Hensch. Marie was 100 years old and her daughters, Ardith Tofteland, Luverne, and Ruth, Washington state, hosted a party. Think of the changes she’s seen in her lifetime and think of the lives she’s touched. Marie was a teacher, teaching in the same district where she once went to school in Lyon County, Iowa. She was busy, for 35 students in eight grades needed daily lesson plans. Former students came laden with flowers so you know she was a favorite. At 14, she moved with her family to Boyden, Iowa. She still keeps in touch with the country church there. This weekend that church has a big celebration themselves, 125 years. At the party, tables had fruit jars filled with a variety of garden flowers. Marie wore a pretty rose dress that she proudly told me Ruth had made for her. She never tried it on before the party and it fit perfectly. Cars and people were everywhere for a 100th birthday is a very special event. What fun we had on Sunday night. Chuck DeBoer, his wife at the organ and daughter at the piano, provided a hymn sing. Later, joining the group was Keith Elbers and the music filled the Village. It was great and we hated for it to end.Carolyn’s daughter came by plane from Arizona late in the afternoon. In the early morning hours the next day, Nelma and her mother were on their way to Beaver Creek and picked up Dolores Melton, then to Austin for her sister, Jill. They all proceeded to Michigan for a visit with Carolyn’s brother.Erma’s returned home. Emil has been under the weather. Signe’s had lots of company, six people from Canton, S.D., and one from Rock Valley, Iowa, as well as a grandson from Alabama. Claire Crawford and Dennis Roning have joined the card players on occasion. In observance of the birthday of the ice cream cone in 1904, we had ice cream cones, of course. In the absence of Pastor Berg, David Klumpenhower conducted the Bible study. We watched "The Sound of Music." One villager thought it boring and one said she didn’t like old movies. She liked Lifetime on TV. Margaret Thornton gave me this to be sung to the tune of "My Favorite Things.""Maalox and nose drops and needles for knittin’Walkers and handrails and dental fittin’sBundles of magazines tied up with string,These are a few of my favorite things. Cadillacs, cataracts, hearing aids, glasses, Polident, Fixodent, false teeth in glasses, Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings, These are a few of my favorite things. When the pipes leak, when the bones creak, when the knees go bad,I simply remember my favorite things and then I don’t feel so bad."I’ll tell you the rest on a slow day.I’ll keep you posted.

This might be too weighty a subject for a midsummer’s day. At this time of year, our thoughts normally turn to the artery-clogging hot dogs served at baseball games, juicy burgers sizzling on the grill and mountains of potato salad. We certainly don’t want to think those same foods may cause our country to slip into oblivion. According to The Week magazine, geologist Robert Roverne has told another publication, Weekly World News, that "Americans are becoming so obese that the continent will soon sink into the ocean." If the population doesn’t shed 1.5 billion pounds, he explained, or 20 pounds per overweight person, shorelines and coastal planes will drop below sea level. If that’s the case, we should all be taking swimming lessons and investing in reliable flotation devices. "Innocent people, and I’m talking here about slim Americans," proclaimed Roverne, "are in dire peril through no fault of their own." At this point, we might question his opinion of innocent, slim Americans. After all, these are the same people who refuse to support the economy of our country by purchasing more groceries than they need. These are the same people who snub offers of rides when they’re out jogging and they look exhausted. Innocent people don’t insult hostesses by refusing to take second helpings or eat anything with more than one gram of fat. Robert Roverne’s Sinking Continent Theory can be debunked with the Hot Fudge Sundae Theory. The latter theory compares the continent of North America with a large bowl of vanilla ice cream. No matter how much hot fudge and chopped nuts are spooned onto the ice cream, the ice cream won’t sink because it’s anchored firmly to the dish, which is solid. Much like North America, the Sinking Continent Theory doesn’t float. We might also argue that, given the big picture, a surplus weight of 1.5 billion pounds isn’t all that much. The total weights of our mountains, tall buildings and every fast food restaurant in the country would make 1.5 billion pounds pale by comparison. If the Sinking Continent Theory becomes a reality, we will be aware of several warning signals, well in advance of our colossal nosedive into the ocean. With both the east and west coasts sinking into the oceans, residents of the Midwest will find large cracks in their lawns and gardens. It would be similar to the large fissure which appears when a chocolate candy bar is slowly broken in half. Unlike the usual cracks in the ground, created by periodic dry spells in late summer, the new openings would resemble the Grand Canyon. Another warning sign of imminent danger would be the Earth shifting with the uneven distribution of human weight, causing the planet to slightly tilt on its axis. At first, the changes would be minor and then we might notice New York City occupying the position formerly held by the North Pole. More serious signs will occur when the Earth breaks free from its orbit and begins free-falling toward the Sun. Nervous eating habits, frayed nerves and intense heat will be obvious symptoms that something has gone wrong. At that point of "the dire peril", a certain geologist and all of those innocent, underweight victims might wish they had eaten more during their lifetimes.

You can fool some of the people some of the time but you can’t fool all the people all of the time. Perhaps that is why our month of July decided it was time to change. Perhaps she was feeling guilty with the temperatures being so cool that we wouldn’t get to use our swimming suits much longer! At any rate, her real character came out this week as we had quite a few days of hot, high humid weather which is more characteristic of July than the lovely cool breezes that we all enjoyed so much with its low humidity. These are the golden days of summer. These July days are days of golden warmth and family reunions. Friendly gatherings at the ballpark, taking a turn at catching the ball, swimming or just catching up on the latest news while basking in the sunlight. For many, these are moments of friendships rekindled, promises of new beginnings, as hearts warm to love and understanding. Remember, these are the golden days of summer filled with the warmth of family and friends. So enjoy it! It won’t be very long until they will no longer be with us. Where does the time go?The relatives of John and Alice Teune had a family gathering in the Hills park Monday evening. Those attending from a distance were Tom and Teresa Teune and girls from Clovis, N.M., and John and Lottie Teune from Pine River. Sunday evening supper guests in the Jo Aykens home were her family, Paul and Carole Aykens, Susan and Jadeyn Veldkamp from Orange City, Iowa, and Joyce Aykens from Worthington. Thursday noon luncheon guests in the Arnold and Jane Bonnema home were their children, Gracia Schrick, George, Iowa, Dan Bonnema, Hull, Iowa, and George Bonnema, Luverne. Brittany Rozeboom and her mother, Yvonne Rozeboom, left on July 7 for Australia where they attended special basketball tournaments. They returned home on July 17. We will probably hear more about that at a later date. Tom and Teresa Teune and girls from Clovis, N.M., were guests in the Harvey Rozeboom home on Tuesday. Bertha Bosch, Mildred Keunen, Joyce Aykens and Jo Aykens went to Sioux Falls Thursday for breakfast to celebrate Mildred’s birthday.Brian and Betty Bruxfoort, Sioux Center, Iowa, were Saturday afternoon callers in the Henrietta Huenink home. Henrietta and her husband, Preston, had worked with them at Annville, Ky., doing mission work there for several years. Brian was the administrator there at that time. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the family of Peter Delfs and the Bosch family. Peter passed away Thursday afternoon following a lengthy illness. His wife is the former Dorothy Bosch. Funeral services were Monday morning at American Reformed Church in Luverne. Burial was in Eastside Cemetery at Steen. Those going to camp at Inspiration Hills this week are Tania Ackerman, Jacob Bos, Heather Esselink and Justin Esselink. Mildred Keunen, Joyce Aykens and Jo Aykens attended a band concert in the park at Orange City, Iowa, Wednesday night. On Monday, July 28, a group left on a mission trip with FCA to Guatemala and El Salvador. Those going are Cassie Tilstra, Erin Boeve, Kelly Mulder, Ashley Bosch, Dustin Bonnema, Kale Wiertzema and Lee Jackson. Two sponsors accompanied them. They are Randy Mulder and Shanna Tilstra. Saturday dinner guests in the Jo Aykens home were her family, Paul and Carole Aykens, Susan and Jadeyn Veldkamp, all from Orange City, and Joyce Aykens, Worthington. I am personally having a bad time with the media when I hear all of the criticism and derogatory remarks made on radio, TV and yes, newspapers and magazines, in regard to our conflict in Iraq as well as in other places in our world today. I think I need to remind all of us that this conflict is not a ballgame we are playing and we do not need a play by play account. We are in this conflict to protect our nation and our freedom and our very way of life. Our president is in charge with help from the many various meetings of multiple governing bodies and other responsible positions. They do not need our help! If they did, they would ask us for it. What has been done cannot be changed and that most of us do not understand. It would be better if we refrained from expressing our own opinions. You know what happens in the ballgame if you express your oppositions or even your opinion to the umpire or referee in charge. I know everyone has a right to his own opinion but everyone does not have to accept it. I would like to quote from Summer M. Silver who said: "May I suggest the importance of a bright day and even more important is our inner sunshine. Inner sunshine comes from the feeling that you have properly expressed through your talent and energy or some good cause. Inner sunshine is a product of serving someone and contributing to his or her satisfaction. Inner sunshine results from the performance of one’s duties and is conscience in an efficient manner. Inner sunshine can come from the courageous acceptance of someone else’s point of view, even if it was not originally your own. But is has become yours because you have been persuaded and you have shown it necessary to change your position. Oh, yes, a stormy day is terrible, and a radiant day is pleasant. But love — plus service — can bring us inner sunshine every day."Why not enjoy it as we face the many and varied conflicts in our lives today.

Ray and Lois Nelson attended the funeral of Ray’s cousin, Evelyn Loven, Saturday afternoon at Mamrelund Lutheran Church in Pennock, near Willmar. Evelyn was the daughter of Nels and Ida Nelson, former Hills residents.On Saturday, July 19, 63 family members from eight different states gathered at Luverne Senior Center for a catered dinner for Darlene Anderson’s 85th birthday. It was also Jack Anderson’s 65th birthday. There was a program after dinner with Jack as the master of ceremonies. Several relatives gave talks of their many memories of Darlene and Jack. It was a day to remember. These two birthdays added together make 150 years!Vivian Gauvin, sister of Marj Roning, returned to her home Sunday in San Jose, Calif., after visiting in the Roning home and with other relatives in the area.Eighteen area young people, along with their counselors, left Omaha, Neb., Monday morning via plane for Guatemala and El Salvador. These young folks are members of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes whose leader is Tom Goehle. They will be doing some work such as paint jobs, repairing buildings, etc., and also will have fun times while playing basketball with the young people there and tell them about the love of Jesus while working with them. They will also visit orphanages and hospitals. These kids are high school, college age and others. They hope to share the love of Jesus while spending time with them. The group is to be back on Aug. 8 and ask for your prayers. Those making the trip are: Tyler Bush, Kale Wiertzema, Dustin Bonnema, Melinda Feucht, Lee Jackson, Scott Harnack, Erin Boeve, Shanna Tilstra, David Top, Cassi Tilstra, Rick Metzger, Kala Menning, Randy Mulder, Kelly Mulder, Andy Kellenberger, Ashley Bosch, Thomas Goehle and Chris Fransman.Marv and June Albers returned last week from a visit with relatives. At White Bear Lake they attended the wedding of June’s great-niece. They visited June’s sisters at Fergus Falls when the four sisters were together. Fay Aukes, Mesa, Ariz., arrived Wednesday to spend a few weeks with her sister, Mae Top, before going North to visit. Sunday, Al and Judy Top entertained his aunt and mother by taking them out to dinner. Also included were Mike and Melissa Top and Chantz, Sioux Falls, S.D., and Kristin and Justin Van Maanen, Valley Springs, S.D. Bob and Twila Kirsch spent last week in Heron Lake at the Mathias home caring for their grandchildren. Wade Warner, rural Larchwood, Iowa, was a Monday afternoon visitor in the home of Cliff and Vi VanWyhe. Sunday visitors of Martha Lindrud were Craig and Carla Nelson, daughters Callie and Courtney, a friend, Emily Matson, Newman Grove, Neb., and Ruben Vestlie, Sioux Falls. Dinner guests Thursday evening in the home of Vic and Fran Sandager were Jane and Peter Brandes, Kaie and Henry, Eagle, Colo. They had been volunteers in Tanzania where Jane and Daryl Schubert live. Evangeline and Alan Opheim attended funeral services for her cousin in Centerville, S.D., last Thursday. She was killed in a car accident. Mark and Janet Skattum, North Glen, Colo., were at Adrian Saturday for a Mouw reunion. They stopped in Hills briefly after that and several Skattum families enjoyed visiting with them at the Hills park. Their three children were with them. Lexia DeWit, Sioux Falls, was a Friday afternoon visitor in the home of her parents, Cliff and Vi VanWyhe.Erma Schubbe returned to Hills last Thursday after spending more than a week with Tom and Maggie Schubbe, Jonathan and Thomas, at Afton, and Paul and Carolyn Randall, Jeffrey and Nathan, in Stillwater. Wilmer and Betty Elbers spent a week in the Black Hills with their children which included Darin and Kim Elbers and family, Sioux Falls, John and Peg Iverson and Coryn, Charlotte, N.C., Tom and Twila Walker and family, Luverne, and Nyla and Alex Newsome, Myrtle Beach, S.C. The above named were dinner guests a week ago Sunday in the Elbers home and afternoon visitors were Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Veldkamp, Ed and Iva Elbers, Luverne, Chuck and Nelva Kroese, Hull, Iowa, Verna and Ruth Verbrugge, Worthington, Jessie Boeve and Janet Blyenberg, Edgerton, Wanda Folkerts and Pete and Judy Boeve, Sioux Falls. Colby Hadler, Edgerton, spent Friday afternoon with his grandmother, Joanne Goehle. Chuck and Rheta DeBoer had supper Sunday night with Seth and Susan and David DeBoer in Melvin, Iowa, Rachel DeBoer spent the week with her sister, Bonnie Fagrey, in Rapid City, S.D.Cliff and Vi VanWyhe visited Sunday afternoon with Tom and Matthew VanWyhe in Sioux Falls.Coryn Iverson flew back to Charlotte, N.C., last Wednesday after spending a week in the area visiting cousins.