Yes, beware, all of you who have already departed or are soon planning to leave our beautiful community to various places of despair. The old Kornerman is about to pull your chain a bit.
We noticed just this morn a note in the D.M. Register titled, "Retirement rankings: Hawaii 1st, IOWA SECOND."
MoneyRates com. tracks certificate of deposit and savings rates and other financial information. The rating is based on five factors: economics, including taxes and cost of living, crime rates, weather, senior life expectancy and the size and growth of a state's senior population and Iowa rated "well above average in four out of five," scoring highest in the crime category, for it's low property and violent crime rates.
To be fair, I suppose we need to mention that Kiplinger's says Iowa is not tax friendly for retirees because the state "taxes a considerable amount of retirement income and doesn't offer a low sales-tax rate or other tax trade-offs to make up for it." The Register story also says, "high property tax rates have hurt the state in such rankings but the state has won points for it's low cost of living and for not taxing Social Security benefits."
AND, is there a prettier place on the planet than Boone, Iowa at this time of year? I hope you've checked out the Ledges, Linwood Park and etc.
O.K., call me an unabashed, shameless, unapologetic cheerleader for Iowa and particularly Boone, Iowa. Always have been, always will be.
P.S. You're not given credit for retiring here if you are galivanting around other parts of the country for several months each year. We tough people are here, "all the time."
K-----K
In a most recent edition, we were lamenting the fact that some of the material Gretchen has gathered and the Kornerman has gathered in our respective lives may eventually reach it's zenith with nobody willing to retain or continue.
Larry Kelley wondered about such info being contained in a book. He wrote, "I think it would be a very important part of the history of life in Boone. Being a very nostalgic person that I am, the past means a great deal to me."
We're just three weeks away from Jamie Kelley's big Boone show at the high school auditorium and Larry informs us that a young Boone boy is getting the opportunity of a lifetime. He wrote, "14-year old Hawk McIntyre will get a chance to do a couple of songs at the show."
The show will be held November 15 and, in addition to Jamie and Hawk, the show will include the Keith Sisters, Holly and Hilary from Branson, and Jamie's band, the Heart and Soul Band. A few VIP reserved seats are available but most tickets are general admission and general seating. Buy before November 14 and save $5 off the regular door fee of $25. Tickets are available at Eckstein's or the Boone YMCA.
K-----K
Dorothy Clifton's note last time provided a good memory. She talked about the K.C. dances and athletes not being allowed to attend because those dances were on Thursday night, the night before the Friday night games. That was the coaches rule.
Of course, smoking and drinking were, obviously, banned and, in those days, drugs were hardly mentioned. To an extreme, I read recently of some high school coaches, back in those days, even putting their stamp on what was proper to eat and what shouldn't be consumed. Candy and pop might be off limits.
Things are and always have been different for college athletes as compared to high school competitors and I'll never forget being a member of a winless Boone Junior College basketball team in the mid-50's. Our coach was Elmer Hokanson......a great guy who enjoyed a good laugh as much as the next guy. One day, in his locker room spiel, he concluded with something like this...."Fellows, I know you are adults now and I'm not going to judge your seasonal behavior but the maintenance people are complaining. Please quit leaving your cigarette butts on the locker room floor."
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Erma Lester, 97, Ogden...........Roger King, 64, rural Boone...........Ruth Ott, 86, Boxholm..........Robert (Bob) Thompson, 63, Ames. Raised in Grand Junction area. East Greene High grad. Worked for the Governor's Traffic/Safety Bureau over 20 years. Married Susan Aitken of Boone in 1978. Lived in Ames and Story County.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support......
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Saturday, October 18, 2014
Such Fun
Great to hear from Dorothy Clifton this week with some comments about the old K.C. dances AND the fact that the Toreador basketball players were banned from attending because the dances were on a Thursday night, the night before a game. That brings to mind some other "rules" which athletes were expected to adhere to in those days. Hey, maybe some of these pro and college athletes we read about every day in the news these days should have similar "codes of conduct."
Dorothy wrote, "years ago, and I do mean years ago, I remember we had K.C. dances on Thursday night and the cost to enter was 10 cents. A priest would be there to watch over us and the football and basketball players were never allowed to attend because their games were on Friday night. I remember, as I went with Pinky Clifton at the time and coach Bucky O'Conner never allowed his team to join in the fun. We always looked forward to these dances and, in those days, we weren't in a lot of trouble like you hear about today. The music was from records and I imagine there were some students who brought their favorite records for us to dance too. I can't remember the exact location, but it was upstairs in the middle of the block on Story Street between Eighth and Ninth on the East side, not too far from where the movie theatre is. Sorry to be so vague about the location or the priest's name but I do remember looking forward to the dances. I really look forward to your news every week too, as others have written and thanked you. You do a great job Mo. Thanks for the memories. I hope others can fill in the gaps on the K.C. dances."
K-----K
Classmate Margaret Kooser also checked in this week. She wrote, "with all the Redeker news, I didn't realize they were planning a move. Since relatives Bill Curell and his son, Jim, had been a part of the store for some time, it came as a surprise. Don't get much news about Boone happenings other than your blog, so I too, like my sister-in-law Lou Oxenford, am sorry when your feedback is not enough to do your blog. After sort of retiring last July, I moved to Western Colorado with my niece Deb and her husband Rick. We have been checking Grand Junction, CO where my nephew lives. Then Deb saw a notice in the paper that they were looking for a certain qualified person at the Caterpillar location in Grand Junction. Rick went in and they were very receptive towards him and it only took about a week to say "welcome." Now, we will be moving from Silt, CO. to Grand Junction before the end of the month. I will once again be a bookkeeper for another venture Rick has in the works. Just keep the numbers rolling! As the summer rec programs were mentioned, that is how my sis, Marilee, and Bill Curell got together. I think they were at the old Franklin school, but would not bet on the location. I was playing a pickup game of softball one day and got hit square in the nose. Turned the playground red that day. Bill's mother was also one of the long standing telephone operators in Boone. Guess family ties keep me grounded to a lot of Boone activities. Hope the class of '53 will be meeting again next year, but I could possibly drop in sooner. Also, hope this is the last move I make. I've done too much of it the last 30 years."
K-----K
The Kornerman had mentioned having some historical material on BHS sports activities and not knowing what to do with it so it simply wouldn't pass away after I pass away. It's been a lot of work over a long period of time such as tracking down every Toreador football game from the very start in the late 1800's. Every opponent, every score and where the game was played. Same thing with swimming and other sports activities.
I won't be around forever and I'd like to pass this type of material on to someone who would, at least, protect it if not add to it.
John Kueck is such a great contributor and he wrote this week with some ideas such as the library, historical society, the Boone News, someplace for a public viewing or, of course, the school itself. In that latter regard, he wrote, "maybe it could be a project for students to create an archive in the school, maybe the cheer leaders or some similar group could take it on at the first of the school year as a project."
To be honest, the material just covers the beginning, way back, to about 1971 when I left newspaper work to join the IHSAA. So, recent years are missing. By the way, quite some time ago, I did leave a complete copy of everything I had to the school's athletic department. I have no idea if it is still available there or ??. If so, if it is still available there, I guess I should stop worrying about it..........
Thanks to John for the ideas and also the interesting maps he sent......maps that show where major league baseball and NFL fan support exists for each league team.
K-----K
I don't believe I know Peggy Watkins but congratulations anyway. I noted in the D.M. Register that she is from Boone and a finalist for a Women of Innovation Award. Her category is Academic Innovation and Leadership, Secondary.
A total of 45 female entrepreneurs, academics and others have been nominated in the Technology Association of Iowa's seventh annual Women of Innovation awards. Winners will be announced November 11.
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Laura Samuelson, 103, Stanhope. Born on the family farm near Boxholm. BHS-29. Became a registered nurse. Was married in Boone. The family farmed in the Stanhope area.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support.......
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.
Dorothy wrote, "years ago, and I do mean years ago, I remember we had K.C. dances on Thursday night and the cost to enter was 10 cents. A priest would be there to watch over us and the football and basketball players were never allowed to attend because their games were on Friday night. I remember, as I went with Pinky Clifton at the time and coach Bucky O'Conner never allowed his team to join in the fun. We always looked forward to these dances and, in those days, we weren't in a lot of trouble like you hear about today. The music was from records and I imagine there were some students who brought their favorite records for us to dance too. I can't remember the exact location, but it was upstairs in the middle of the block on Story Street between Eighth and Ninth on the East side, not too far from where the movie theatre is. Sorry to be so vague about the location or the priest's name but I do remember looking forward to the dances. I really look forward to your news every week too, as others have written and thanked you. You do a great job Mo. Thanks for the memories. I hope others can fill in the gaps on the K.C. dances."
K-----K
Classmate Margaret Kooser also checked in this week. She wrote, "with all the Redeker news, I didn't realize they were planning a move. Since relatives Bill Curell and his son, Jim, had been a part of the store for some time, it came as a surprise. Don't get much news about Boone happenings other than your blog, so I too, like my sister-in-law Lou Oxenford, am sorry when your feedback is not enough to do your blog. After sort of retiring last July, I moved to Western Colorado with my niece Deb and her husband Rick. We have been checking Grand Junction, CO where my nephew lives. Then Deb saw a notice in the paper that they were looking for a certain qualified person at the Caterpillar location in Grand Junction. Rick went in and they were very receptive towards him and it only took about a week to say "welcome." Now, we will be moving from Silt, CO. to Grand Junction before the end of the month. I will once again be a bookkeeper for another venture Rick has in the works. Just keep the numbers rolling! As the summer rec programs were mentioned, that is how my sis, Marilee, and Bill Curell got together. I think they were at the old Franklin school, but would not bet on the location. I was playing a pickup game of softball one day and got hit square in the nose. Turned the playground red that day. Bill's mother was also one of the long standing telephone operators in Boone. Guess family ties keep me grounded to a lot of Boone activities. Hope the class of '53 will be meeting again next year, but I could possibly drop in sooner. Also, hope this is the last move I make. I've done too much of it the last 30 years."
K-----K
The Kornerman had mentioned having some historical material on BHS sports activities and not knowing what to do with it so it simply wouldn't pass away after I pass away. It's been a lot of work over a long period of time such as tracking down every Toreador football game from the very start in the late 1800's. Every opponent, every score and where the game was played. Same thing with swimming and other sports activities.
I won't be around forever and I'd like to pass this type of material on to someone who would, at least, protect it if not add to it.
John Kueck is such a great contributor and he wrote this week with some ideas such as the library, historical society, the Boone News, someplace for a public viewing or, of course, the school itself. In that latter regard, he wrote, "maybe it could be a project for students to create an archive in the school, maybe the cheer leaders or some similar group could take it on at the first of the school year as a project."
To be honest, the material just covers the beginning, way back, to about 1971 when I left newspaper work to join the IHSAA. So, recent years are missing. By the way, quite some time ago, I did leave a complete copy of everything I had to the school's athletic department. I have no idea if it is still available there or ??. If so, if it is still available there, I guess I should stop worrying about it..........
Thanks to John for the ideas and also the interesting maps he sent......maps that show where major league baseball and NFL fan support exists for each league team.
K-----K
I don't believe I know Peggy Watkins but congratulations anyway. I noted in the D.M. Register that she is from Boone and a finalist for a Women of Innovation Award. Her category is Academic Innovation and Leadership, Secondary.
A total of 45 female entrepreneurs, academics and others have been nominated in the Technology Association of Iowa's seventh annual Women of Innovation awards. Winners will be announced November 11.
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Laura Samuelson, 103, Stanhope. Born on the family farm near Boxholm. BHS-29. Became a registered nurse. Was married in Boone. The family farmed in the Stanhope area.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support.......
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.
Saturday, October 11, 2014
A Plethora of Topics
Talk about bypassing all the fluff and getting right to the point, Mark Tompkins wrote, "I have nothing to report, but wanted you to know that I'm always disappointed when I click on the Korner and find there is no update."
Then there was Lou Oxenford who wrote, "Mo. What has happened? I can't find you on the internet. You haven't quit have you? We all hope that isn't the reason I can't find you!!!. This is Wednesday and I'm lost without your great articles. Please tell us you're O.K. and will be back again soon."
The Kornerman replied to Lou that I'm "still kickin" maybe not so high some days but...... I think with a little advice, we got Lou back on track.
In both cases, let me say that nobody is more disappointed when we have to bypass publication days because of a lack of material than the old Kornerman. I don't like that either......not one bit BUT again, it all depends on you......you viewers out there in Kornerland. We simply don't exist without your help..........you know, stories/memories/comments/support........as we always say.
K-----K
Mark added, "Meanwhile, you mentioned telephone operators back in the day. That could be a springboard to party lines. Certainly some Korner readers must have some interesting and mirthful tales of party lines."
Sorry Mark, we did throw out that bait......but nobody grabbed the hook.
K-----K
The Kornerman had an opportunity to "hook up" with Bob Lamb, BHS-42, this week and had an interesting conversation about some good old days of the late 30's, early 40's.
Bob tried different sports in high school but was most successful in swimming. He was a sophomore in the 1939-40 school year and graduated at the end of the 41-42 school year. Now living in the Dayton, OH area, Bob said, "actually our swim coaches were a pair of junior college students, Bob Cramer (not the Bob of Fareway etc. of course) and Ed Updegraff, followed by Jan Harken Welin. I tried football in my sophomore season when Wayne Hill was the varsity coach and his assistant was Bucky O'Conner. I wasn't very good, had a helmet with no strap and a second or third team uniform. I tackled John Handley once, my helmet flew and his knee hit my ear which resulted in a broken ear drum. It's kind of ironic that I saw Bucky O'Conner twice while in the service. I saw him when he was teaching physical education at Jefferson Barracks and then on a ship, on the way home from Japan, I heard his name mentioned and we got together. One of the first things he asked was, "how is your ear drum.""
K-----K
The Kornerman must mention how great it's been recently to "vibe and jive" with a pair of good friends, Mike Loehrer and Roger Dutton. Mike had called from his home base, Dublin, OH, a few weeks back and wanted to visit with the old Kornerman when coming to Boone and Roger just called the other day wondering how the "old guy" was getting along.
P.S. Many of you know Roger has a serious health problem that needs correcting but he still hasn't had that surgery which will be a tedious and dangerous one. He said, "I'm ready but the doctors are just waiting for the "right moment." He sounded good and, in fact, had just returned from a vacation overseas.
K-----K
This goes back several editions. Gretchen (Otis of course) wrote, "you wrote about Skateland and Winona (Starner) Mylenbusch Decker. When Charles Decker passed away, Nony moved to Ames to be closer to a son. I talked to her this year when I was researching "Skaters Paradise," a roller rink located outside of the east gate of the Ledges back in the late 1930's. The rink was built by the Rice brothers from western Iowa and Nebraska. It burned down on Christmas eve of 1942. I haven't found any printed information on this rink or on the fire. It did not have an organ but just used recorded music. Darlene Lincoln, BHS-40, provided some information and some pictures. Her father, Orrie Clark of Boone, was the rink manager and she was the "skate girl.""
P.S.: Gretchen, who has some health issues, is doubly worried. She wrote, "I've enjoyed keeping track of the BHS/Sacred Heart classes over the years and assisting surrounding schools but I have no idea what will become of all the information I've gathered. So far, no one has shown any interest in housing it or continuing this project. Any ideas???"
The Kornerman says, "she's put a ton of time and work into this project and it would be a shame to see it deteriorate or completely die. It contains a lot of history, validity etc. etc. but needs a younger person to grab it and continue what Gretchen has put her heart and soul into for so many years."
P.S. 2: Reminds me of the Kornerman's similar situation. I'm, of course, not getting any younger either and I have considerable information about BHS athletics that I have gathered over a 65-year period and am wondering how to keep that from simply "passing away."
K-----K
The time is drawing near. The BHS/Sacred Heart classes of 1959 will be meeting next weekend in Boone for their 55th gathering. There will be a breakfast at the Scout Cabin Shelter House in McHose Park Saturday morning and a get-together at the home of the Munson's, Emily and Alan, in Ames that evening. As far as the Kornerman knows, this is probably the last class reunion of the year.
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Carl Steig, 81, Fort Dodge, formerly of Boone. Carl was an industrial arts teacher at BHS and while in Boone, built his own home here. No Boone area survivors........................
Marvin (Bud) Walters, 87, Ackley/Boone. Boone area survivors include his wife, Jean, and daughter, Vicky Van Dyke...........James Obrecht, 78, Ames. Was a pharmacist in Ames and Huxley. Boone area survivor is his wife, Judirae Hendricks Harris Obrecht, a Boone native..........Iola Doty, 81, Ames, formerly of Stratford, Was a homemaker and worked as a CNA at hospitals. Boone area survivors include daughters Janice Albracht of Woodward and Joyce Bricker of Stratford...........Susan Marie Morris, 58, Minnesota, formerly of Boone. BHS-73. Was a vocal music teacher and worked in libraries. No Boone area survivors..........Jerry Mackey, 83, Illinois, formerly of Boone. Was a lawyer/banker........Wilma May Miller, 79, Luther High grad. Born in Sugar Valley, west of Luther. Worked several years at Woodward Hospital. Then worked at ISU. Boone area survivors include a step-son, Bob Miller of Woodward, a brother, Dan Danielson of Madrid, sisters Maxine Anderson and Mildred (Judy) Peterson of Madrid.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support.......
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.
Then there was Lou Oxenford who wrote, "Mo. What has happened? I can't find you on the internet. You haven't quit have you? We all hope that isn't the reason I can't find you!!!. This is Wednesday and I'm lost without your great articles. Please tell us you're O.K. and will be back again soon."
The Kornerman replied to Lou that I'm "still kickin" maybe not so high some days but...... I think with a little advice, we got Lou back on track.
In both cases, let me say that nobody is more disappointed when we have to bypass publication days because of a lack of material than the old Kornerman. I don't like that either......not one bit BUT again, it all depends on you......you viewers out there in Kornerland. We simply don't exist without your help..........you know, stories/memories/comments/support........as we always say.
K-----K
Mark added, "Meanwhile, you mentioned telephone operators back in the day. That could be a springboard to party lines. Certainly some Korner readers must have some interesting and mirthful tales of party lines."
Sorry Mark, we did throw out that bait......but nobody grabbed the hook.
K-----K
The Kornerman had an opportunity to "hook up" with Bob Lamb, BHS-42, this week and had an interesting conversation about some good old days of the late 30's, early 40's.
Bob tried different sports in high school but was most successful in swimming. He was a sophomore in the 1939-40 school year and graduated at the end of the 41-42 school year. Now living in the Dayton, OH area, Bob said, "actually our swim coaches were a pair of junior college students, Bob Cramer (not the Bob of Fareway etc. of course) and Ed Updegraff, followed by Jan Harken Welin. I tried football in my sophomore season when Wayne Hill was the varsity coach and his assistant was Bucky O'Conner. I wasn't very good, had a helmet with no strap and a second or third team uniform. I tackled John Handley once, my helmet flew and his knee hit my ear which resulted in a broken ear drum. It's kind of ironic that I saw Bucky O'Conner twice while in the service. I saw him when he was teaching physical education at Jefferson Barracks and then on a ship, on the way home from Japan, I heard his name mentioned and we got together. One of the first things he asked was, "how is your ear drum.""
K-----K
The Kornerman must mention how great it's been recently to "vibe and jive" with a pair of good friends, Mike Loehrer and Roger Dutton. Mike had called from his home base, Dublin, OH, a few weeks back and wanted to visit with the old Kornerman when coming to Boone and Roger just called the other day wondering how the "old guy" was getting along.
P.S. Many of you know Roger has a serious health problem that needs correcting but he still hasn't had that surgery which will be a tedious and dangerous one. He said, "I'm ready but the doctors are just waiting for the "right moment." He sounded good and, in fact, had just returned from a vacation overseas.
K-----K
This goes back several editions. Gretchen (Otis of course) wrote, "you wrote about Skateland and Winona (Starner) Mylenbusch Decker. When Charles Decker passed away, Nony moved to Ames to be closer to a son. I talked to her this year when I was researching "Skaters Paradise," a roller rink located outside of the east gate of the Ledges back in the late 1930's. The rink was built by the Rice brothers from western Iowa and Nebraska. It burned down on Christmas eve of 1942. I haven't found any printed information on this rink or on the fire. It did not have an organ but just used recorded music. Darlene Lincoln, BHS-40, provided some information and some pictures. Her father, Orrie Clark of Boone, was the rink manager and she was the "skate girl.""
P.S.: Gretchen, who has some health issues, is doubly worried. She wrote, "I've enjoyed keeping track of the BHS/Sacred Heart classes over the years and assisting surrounding schools but I have no idea what will become of all the information I've gathered. So far, no one has shown any interest in housing it or continuing this project. Any ideas???"
The Kornerman says, "she's put a ton of time and work into this project and it would be a shame to see it deteriorate or completely die. It contains a lot of history, validity etc. etc. but needs a younger person to grab it and continue what Gretchen has put her heart and soul into for so many years."
P.S. 2: Reminds me of the Kornerman's similar situation. I'm, of course, not getting any younger either and I have considerable information about BHS athletics that I have gathered over a 65-year period and am wondering how to keep that from simply "passing away."
K-----K
The time is drawing near. The BHS/Sacred Heart classes of 1959 will be meeting next weekend in Boone for their 55th gathering. There will be a breakfast at the Scout Cabin Shelter House in McHose Park Saturday morning and a get-together at the home of the Munson's, Emily and Alan, in Ames that evening. As far as the Kornerman knows, this is probably the last class reunion of the year.
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Carl Steig, 81, Fort Dodge, formerly of Boone. Carl was an industrial arts teacher at BHS and while in Boone, built his own home here. No Boone area survivors........................
Marvin (Bud) Walters, 87, Ackley/Boone. Boone area survivors include his wife, Jean, and daughter, Vicky Van Dyke...........James Obrecht, 78, Ames. Was a pharmacist in Ames and Huxley. Boone area survivor is his wife, Judirae Hendricks Harris Obrecht, a Boone native..........Iola Doty, 81, Ames, formerly of Stratford, Was a homemaker and worked as a CNA at hospitals. Boone area survivors include daughters Janice Albracht of Woodward and Joyce Bricker of Stratford...........Susan Marie Morris, 58, Minnesota, formerly of Boone. BHS-73. Was a vocal music teacher and worked in libraries. No Boone area survivors..........Jerry Mackey, 83, Illinois, formerly of Boone. Was a lawyer/banker........Wilma May Miller, 79, Luther High grad. Born in Sugar Valley, west of Luther. Worked several years at Woodward Hospital. Then worked at ISU. Boone area survivors include a step-son, Bob Miller of Woodward, a brother, Dan Danielson of Madrid, sisters Maxine Anderson and Mildred (Judy) Peterson of Madrid.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support.......
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Our Guy Found the Monument
You'll recall from our September 30 edition that we provided some information about a monument in southwestern Boone County paying tribute to some military personnel killed in the crash of a B-24 Air Force bomber during a severe storm in July of 1943. There were no survivors.
Although some interested citizens had seen that the monument was erected and had made sure it was cared for, at least for a time after the installation, it seems that the monument has never received much countywide exposure or recognition. In fact, the current Boone County Historical Society Executive Director was unaware but assured that she would check into it and add it to their map of places to visit in Boone County.
The Korner has followed up. We sent the Korner's Director of Boone County Memorial Facilities to the site for a "hands-on" report. Yes indeed, there is a monument that is easily located on "K" Avenue, a mile south of road E57. Our ace reporter said it appeared that there had been recent activity at the cleared monument area, there are some flowers and flags visible, and he even took a picture to show. It's a nice looking monument with what appears to be a metal-like front featuring pertinent information on the crash and even a listing of the personnel killed in the mishap. At the top of the monument is a wooden replica of a B-24 bomber. Our correspondent said that replica does show wear and tear and could use an update.
K-----K
Adding to our recent mention of the 70th anniversary of the BHS and Sacred Heart classes of 1944, we're sure some of you "more mature" aka older viewers might appreciate knowing who some of the attendees were: Jim Ash, Kenny and Helen Barnes, Bill and Jodie Beckwith, Eugene and Emogene (Olson) Criss, Bill Dahlien, Clarence and Marge Dixon, Margaret (Flynn) Ewing, Betty (Gutteridge) Ferry, Daryl and Betty (Fagin) Haerther, Helen (Rosengreen) Johnson, Clavonne (Dahlien) Kading, Jean (Wiley) King, Lovey (Budd) Mondt, Charles (Dutch) Nelson, Roger and Louise Oxenford, Bonnie (Weber) Peppas, Don Shaw, John and Barb Veale, Iline (Welch) Westberg and Beverly (Wilson) Sellers.
Nine actual '44 classmates attended. The remainder were invited members of other classes of the early 1940's.
K-----K
Al Roeder wrote this week, "I noted the mention of the 70th class reunion held recently by the class of 1944. My mother, Jo Roeder, graduated in 1929 from Boone High. She and the few surviving classmates met periodically into the early 2000's for a mini-reunion. I think the last few years, 2004 or 2005, there were only three of them left, she, Sanky Sunstrom and Jack Shelley. But, they would get together every few months for a mini-reunion. All three are now deceased. Still enjoying the Korner. Keep up the good work."
K-----K
Still on the subject of reunions, we received word from Jayne Clark Baugh and Loren Frazier about an interesting proposal. BHS classmates of 1958, Jayne and Loren are going to attempt a 75th birthday celebration in the fall of 2015 since most of those class members will be turning 75. It seems that Jayne had the short stick and was nominated by several classmates, spouses, and husbands to organize this event and Loren has agreed to help.
What makes this interesting is the fact that the proposal is to have the event many miles from Boonetown. There has been talk of meeting at Graceland in Memphis with an alternate choice of Branson. Classmates who are interested are being polled as to their location choice. The organizers said the plan is for a two-day get-together next September. They're asking for a response by November 5. First, are you interested and secondly, where would you like the event to be held?
Jayne can be contacted at 954-426-6443 or
nanajayneb@aol.com.
K-----K
The next hometown reunion we know about will be held the weekend of October 18 when the BHS and Sacred Heart classes of 1959 get together for their 55th event.
K-----K
The mind is a strange thing or is it just the Kornerman's mind? Coming by the new Redeker's location recently I immediately drifted back to my KWBG radio days. We seemed to do lots of advertising for Brin's in Webster City.......just around the corner on Seneca Street. I can remember that so clearly but why?........especially when there are so many more important issues I can't command. I guess Brin's was a well known furniture store with a large following in the central part of Iowa.
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Paul Whannell, 93, Boone. After farming, moved to Boone in 1971. Worked in maintenance at the Eastern Star and Boone Hospital and served the Iowa High School Athletic Association for 22 years. No Boone surivivors...........Doris Rogers Nordskog, 87, Britt, IA. BHS grad. Played trumpet in the BHS jazz band. Was a farmer's wife. No Boone survivors..........Violet Iles, 87, Boone. Formerly of Ogden. Pilot Mound High-45. Worked for Treloar's Hatchery, Ogden Telephone and Super Value in Ogden. Boone area survivors include step son Craig Iles of Boone..........John Flugstad, 68, Boone. Worked for the DOT, Quinn's and Electrolux. Boone area survivors include a son Mike and daughter Jill Harrington both of Boone.
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Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support......
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com
Although some interested citizens had seen that the monument was erected and had made sure it was cared for, at least for a time after the installation, it seems that the monument has never received much countywide exposure or recognition. In fact, the current Boone County Historical Society Executive Director was unaware but assured that she would check into it and add it to their map of places to visit in Boone County.
The Korner has followed up. We sent the Korner's Director of Boone County Memorial Facilities to the site for a "hands-on" report. Yes indeed, there is a monument that is easily located on "K" Avenue, a mile south of road E57. Our ace reporter said it appeared that there had been recent activity at the cleared monument area, there are some flowers and flags visible, and he even took a picture to show. It's a nice looking monument with what appears to be a metal-like front featuring pertinent information on the crash and even a listing of the personnel killed in the mishap. At the top of the monument is a wooden replica of a B-24 bomber. Our correspondent said that replica does show wear and tear and could use an update.
K-----K
Adding to our recent mention of the 70th anniversary of the BHS and Sacred Heart classes of 1944, we're sure some of you "more mature" aka older viewers might appreciate knowing who some of the attendees were: Jim Ash, Kenny and Helen Barnes, Bill and Jodie Beckwith, Eugene and Emogene (Olson) Criss, Bill Dahlien, Clarence and Marge Dixon, Margaret (Flynn) Ewing, Betty (Gutteridge) Ferry, Daryl and Betty (Fagin) Haerther, Helen (Rosengreen) Johnson, Clavonne (Dahlien) Kading, Jean (Wiley) King, Lovey (Budd) Mondt, Charles (Dutch) Nelson, Roger and Louise Oxenford, Bonnie (Weber) Peppas, Don Shaw, John and Barb Veale, Iline (Welch) Westberg and Beverly (Wilson) Sellers.
Nine actual '44 classmates attended. The remainder were invited members of other classes of the early 1940's.
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Al Roeder wrote this week, "I noted the mention of the 70th class reunion held recently by the class of 1944. My mother, Jo Roeder, graduated in 1929 from Boone High. She and the few surviving classmates met periodically into the early 2000's for a mini-reunion. I think the last few years, 2004 or 2005, there were only three of them left, she, Sanky Sunstrom and Jack Shelley. But, they would get together every few months for a mini-reunion. All three are now deceased. Still enjoying the Korner. Keep up the good work."
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Still on the subject of reunions, we received word from Jayne Clark Baugh and Loren Frazier about an interesting proposal. BHS classmates of 1958, Jayne and Loren are going to attempt a 75th birthday celebration in the fall of 2015 since most of those class members will be turning 75. It seems that Jayne had the short stick and was nominated by several classmates, spouses, and husbands to organize this event and Loren has agreed to help.
What makes this interesting is the fact that the proposal is to have the event many miles from Boonetown. There has been talk of meeting at Graceland in Memphis with an alternate choice of Branson. Classmates who are interested are being polled as to their location choice. The organizers said the plan is for a two-day get-together next September. They're asking for a response by November 5. First, are you interested and secondly, where would you like the event to be held?
Jayne can be contacted at 954-426-6443 or
nanajayneb@aol.com.
K-----K
The next hometown reunion we know about will be held the weekend of October 18 when the BHS and Sacred Heart classes of 1959 get together for their 55th event.
K-----K
The mind is a strange thing or is it just the Kornerman's mind? Coming by the new Redeker's location recently I immediately drifted back to my KWBG radio days. We seemed to do lots of advertising for Brin's in Webster City.......just around the corner on Seneca Street. I can remember that so clearly but why?........especially when there are so many more important issues I can't command. I guess Brin's was a well known furniture store with a large following in the central part of Iowa.
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Paul Whannell, 93, Boone. After farming, moved to Boone in 1971. Worked in maintenance at the Eastern Star and Boone Hospital and served the Iowa High School Athletic Association for 22 years. No Boone surivivors...........Doris Rogers Nordskog, 87, Britt, IA. BHS grad. Played trumpet in the BHS jazz band. Was a farmer's wife. No Boone survivors..........Violet Iles, 87, Boone. Formerly of Ogden. Pilot Mound High-45. Worked for Treloar's Hatchery, Ogden Telephone and Super Value in Ogden. Boone area survivors include step son Craig Iles of Boone..........John Flugstad, 68, Boone. Worked for the DOT, Quinn's and Electrolux. Boone area survivors include a son Mike and daughter Jill Harrington both of Boone.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support......
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com
Saturday, October 4, 2014
A Great Success
The 70th.....that's right......the 70th BHS class reunion is history and according to Gretchen Otis, who coordinated the event, it was a huge success. Gretchen mentioned that she had, some years ago, assisted Thelma Nelson Boyd with a 69th reunion by mail.....that would be the class of 1934.......but she still wonders if anyone knows of any previous 70th or beyond gathering?
This most recent event actually drew grads from 1940 through 1946, ages 85 to 95. Five states were represented. A total of 36 attended the Open House, 30 to 35 the breakfast and train ride. The official '44 class dinner, hosted by Bill and Jodie Beckwith at their home, was enjoyed by nine classmates.
Gretchen praised Fenner Stevenson and his son and the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad for their assistance. Fenner, Bill Beckwith and the late Marshall King were instrumental in obtaining and bringing "new wheels" from Nebraska to Boone for the handicapped accessable railroad car. It and a regular car were used for the group's train ride. Fenner's son applied the wheels and replaced a window and had it up and running shortly after it's arrival from Nebraska.
K-----K
We heard from former Booneite Jeff Tyrie this week but with sorrowful news. Jeff reported that his brother Dan, 72, had passed away last June but he doubted if any of his Boone acqaintences were aware of that. Jeff wrote, "even though he wasn't a native, he loved Boone when we lived there and he returned several times a year to visit with friends and in-laws. Dan worked at Gambles for several years and opened up his own store, C+D TV and Appliance. He also ran a route for Archway for a time. He also built a race car that ran every weekend at the Boone Speedway with Larry Brown as the driver. For over 25 years in Lafayette, IN he ran a shop that he started as a small engine repair shop out of his garage that grew into a successful retail store that sold all types of mowers and landscaping gear. He wife, Kate (Crocheck) survives, along with three sons, all of whom were born in Boone."
Jeff said the family lived in Boone from 1960-70. Dan came here before the rest of the family and remained here three or four years after the others had moved on. Wilbur, who was connected with Archway, was the dad of the family.
K-----K
In our last edition we mentioned receiving information from former Booneite Gene Keys and his wife, Karen (Helm) about a monument........a tribute to victims of a 1943 military plane crash in Boone County.
A little more info now on Gene and Karen. Gene wrote, "I wasn't the most popular guy in school and was always in trouble. Not only did I grow up on the wrong side of the tracks, I grew up "between" the tracks. We had the Chicago and Northwestern in our back yard and right across the street in front was the old Fort Dodge, Des Moines/Southern interurban maintenence yards. Before the ink was even dry on my diploma, I was on a plane to Navy basic training. I made up for my earlier bad behavior while in the Navy, staying nine years. I then came back to Boone but couldn't find steady work. The only job I could get was as an electrician's helper at Quinn's. After a year there, several broken bones, a bad welding burn and so much black sand in the pores of my skin, I looked like a coal miner. I received my appointment letter from J. Edgar Hoover and was off on a 26-year career with the FBI which took me all over the world. My first field office assignment was at Albuquerque, NM where I stayed for eight years. Then it was off to Washington D.C. where I transferred to the Intelligence Division and traveled the world. My last few years were spent at the FBI Academy at Quantico, VA. Karen came to Colorado in the early 70's and retired from Hewlett Packard and after that, ten years at Walmart. We were reunited via the internet and married a few years ago."
Gene and Karen's older sister, Kay, were 1961 BHS grads. Another of Karen's sisters, LaVonne, lives in Castle Rock, CO. and there's a "little brother," Mel Helm, also in that family. Mel is retired and living in Tama. Mother Helm is Ruth who Gene said, "volunteered at the Boone hospital since "Moby Dick was a tad pole" and at the Mamie Eisenhower birth place. She also worked at Bournes for quite some time."
P.S. We had mentioned in the last edition that former Ogden residents, Warren and Ruth Christensen, had a special interest in that monument. Now living in Loveland, CO where Gene and Karen live, the Christensen's, former owners of the Ogden roller rink, have a son, Mike, a retired Air Force Colonel who is married to LaVonne, Karen's sister.
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Esther May Schoff Barnhart,101, Boone. Moved to Boone after the death of her second husband, C.J. Barnhart. Four children survive, Elizabeth Nelson, Valenette Heldt, Roland Schoff and Evelyn Stockman.........Arvid Miller, 74, Ogden. OHS-60. Worked at Rolfes, Sears and Sonoco. Boone area survivors include his wife, Janet, son Kevin and sister, Lila Mallicoat of Boone........Janice Smith, 76, Boone. Longtime secretary at Bourns and after retirement, was a secretary at the Boone and Scenic Valley. Boone area survivors include daughters, Jacquelynn Smith and Jill Smith Ginther, and a sister, Betty Miller all of Boone..........Rev. Tom Geelan, 78, Ruthven, IA. Served Boone Sacred Heart parish for a time. Retired in 2007..........Randy Newton, 60, Ogden. OHS-72. A longtime employee of Ogden Municipal Utilities. Boone area survivors include his wife, Erica Fleming, son Bart and daughters, JoAnne Kirton and Amanda Mortensen of Ogden, and son, Justin, of Boone........Jeffrey Smiley, 55, Boone. BHS-78. Jeff worked 34 years for Besser Quinn Machine and Foundry in Boone. Then worked for Seneca in Webster City until retirement this year. Boone area survivors include his wife, Shelli, sons Aaron and Austin and daughter, Alyssa, father and mother-in-law, Jack and Bev Coffman, and brother-in-law, Chuck Coffman all of Boone.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support........
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com
This most recent event actually drew grads from 1940 through 1946, ages 85 to 95. Five states were represented. A total of 36 attended the Open House, 30 to 35 the breakfast and train ride. The official '44 class dinner, hosted by Bill and Jodie Beckwith at their home, was enjoyed by nine classmates.
Gretchen praised Fenner Stevenson and his son and the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad for their assistance. Fenner, Bill Beckwith and the late Marshall King were instrumental in obtaining and bringing "new wheels" from Nebraska to Boone for the handicapped accessable railroad car. It and a regular car were used for the group's train ride. Fenner's son applied the wheels and replaced a window and had it up and running shortly after it's arrival from Nebraska.
K-----K
We heard from former Booneite Jeff Tyrie this week but with sorrowful news. Jeff reported that his brother Dan, 72, had passed away last June but he doubted if any of his Boone acqaintences were aware of that. Jeff wrote, "even though he wasn't a native, he loved Boone when we lived there and he returned several times a year to visit with friends and in-laws. Dan worked at Gambles for several years and opened up his own store, C+D TV and Appliance. He also ran a route for Archway for a time. He also built a race car that ran every weekend at the Boone Speedway with Larry Brown as the driver. For over 25 years in Lafayette, IN he ran a shop that he started as a small engine repair shop out of his garage that grew into a successful retail store that sold all types of mowers and landscaping gear. He wife, Kate (Crocheck) survives, along with three sons, all of whom were born in Boone."
Jeff said the family lived in Boone from 1960-70. Dan came here before the rest of the family and remained here three or four years after the others had moved on. Wilbur, who was connected with Archway, was the dad of the family.
K-----K
In our last edition we mentioned receiving information from former Booneite Gene Keys and his wife, Karen (Helm) about a monument........a tribute to victims of a 1943 military plane crash in Boone County.
A little more info now on Gene and Karen. Gene wrote, "I wasn't the most popular guy in school and was always in trouble. Not only did I grow up on the wrong side of the tracks, I grew up "between" the tracks. We had the Chicago and Northwestern in our back yard and right across the street in front was the old Fort Dodge, Des Moines/Southern interurban maintenence yards. Before the ink was even dry on my diploma, I was on a plane to Navy basic training. I made up for my earlier bad behavior while in the Navy, staying nine years. I then came back to Boone but couldn't find steady work. The only job I could get was as an electrician's helper at Quinn's. After a year there, several broken bones, a bad welding burn and so much black sand in the pores of my skin, I looked like a coal miner. I received my appointment letter from J. Edgar Hoover and was off on a 26-year career with the FBI which took me all over the world. My first field office assignment was at Albuquerque, NM where I stayed for eight years. Then it was off to Washington D.C. where I transferred to the Intelligence Division and traveled the world. My last few years were spent at the FBI Academy at Quantico, VA. Karen came to Colorado in the early 70's and retired from Hewlett Packard and after that, ten years at Walmart. We were reunited via the internet and married a few years ago."
Gene and Karen's older sister, Kay, were 1961 BHS grads. Another of Karen's sisters, LaVonne, lives in Castle Rock, CO. and there's a "little brother," Mel Helm, also in that family. Mel is retired and living in Tama. Mother Helm is Ruth who Gene said, "volunteered at the Boone hospital since "Moby Dick was a tad pole" and at the Mamie Eisenhower birth place. She also worked at Bournes for quite some time."
P.S. We had mentioned in the last edition that former Ogden residents, Warren and Ruth Christensen, had a special interest in that monument. Now living in Loveland, CO where Gene and Karen live, the Christensen's, former owners of the Ogden roller rink, have a son, Mike, a retired Air Force Colonel who is married to LaVonne, Karen's sister.
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Esther May Schoff Barnhart,101, Boone. Moved to Boone after the death of her second husband, C.J. Barnhart. Four children survive, Elizabeth Nelson, Valenette Heldt, Roland Schoff and Evelyn Stockman.........Arvid Miller, 74, Ogden. OHS-60. Worked at Rolfes, Sears and Sonoco. Boone area survivors include his wife, Janet, son Kevin and sister, Lila Mallicoat of Boone........Janice Smith, 76, Boone. Longtime secretary at Bourns and after retirement, was a secretary at the Boone and Scenic Valley. Boone area survivors include daughters, Jacquelynn Smith and Jill Smith Ginther, and a sister, Betty Miller all of Boone..........Rev. Tom Geelan, 78, Ruthven, IA. Served Boone Sacred Heart parish for a time. Retired in 2007..........Randy Newton, 60, Ogden. OHS-72. A longtime employee of Ogden Municipal Utilities. Boone area survivors include his wife, Erica Fleming, son Bart and daughters, JoAnne Kirton and Amanda Mortensen of Ogden, and son, Justin, of Boone........Jeffrey Smiley, 55, Boone. BHS-78. Jeff worked 34 years for Besser Quinn Machine and Foundry in Boone. Then worked for Seneca in Webster City until retirement this year. Boone area survivors include his wife, Shelli, sons Aaron and Austin and daughter, Alyssa, father and mother-in-law, Jack and Bev Coffman, and brother-in-law, Chuck Coffman all of Boone.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support........
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Remembering Telephone Operators
Anybody remember telephone operator days and............
At a recent family reunion, the subject of telephone operators came up AND when/how a business transaction suddenly became much more personal.
Example: Jo said that one time she attempted to call a girlfriend time after time but continued getting a "busy" signal. Finally, the operator chimed in, "Jo, your girlfriend lives just up the street, why don't you just walk up there."
Then too, it was mentioned that one individual called a couple of different people seeking a certain relative but with no luck. Finally, again, an operator spoke up telling her the exact location she could find the person she was looking for........."no, no, she's not there or there, she's at so and so's house," the caller was told.
How about it! Anybody out there got any other telephone operator stories?
K-----K
Those of you who are historically minded, particularly regarding Boone County happenings, may find this interesting. The Kornerman was unaware and, perhaps, you are too.
It comes courtesy of former residents Gene Keys and his wife Karen (Helm) who reside in Loveland, CO. The former owners of the Ogden roller rink, Warren and Ruth Christensen, who also now live in Loveland, asked that Gene and Karen do some investigative work while in Boone for Pufferbilly. Specifically, they were asked to find and get some pictures of a monument dedicated to the crash of an Air Force B-24 bomber that had gone down about 10 miles southeast of Boone. Warren had been interested in erecting a monument honoring the crew of that plane and, in fact, put up his own money to have such a project completed. He and some Ogden friends cared for it and the surrounding area but he never took a picture of it before moving west.
Gene said the Boone County Historical Society was checked but had no knowledge of the monument so he and Karen started their own search. He wrote, "we started west bound on E57 south of Boone and across the river. We met several "dead ends" but finally found a farmer that told us exactly where it was located."
"The monument is located on "K" Avenue, a mile south of E57 on the east side of the road. On E57, there is a green marker before you get to "K," indicating with an arrow pointing south, "Historical Marker 1 Mile." The site can also be reached from Highway 169 south of Ogden and turning east on E57.
Editor's Note: It sounds as if the monument may be 10 miles southwest of Boone rather than southeast as Gene had written.
A picture was taken, then at the Ericson Public Library, the couple found a BNR article describing the crash. On July 31, 1943, the plane was on a training mission from Topeka, KS to Duluth, MN when it encountered a severe storm and crashed. Witnesses said it went down in a "ball of flames" and there were no survivors.
Due to the work of Gene and Karen, the Christensen's received a picture of the monument and a copy of the newspaper story and they were " very happy to receive them." Pam Schwartz, Executive Director of the Boone Historical Society, was also provided with the info and said she plans to do more research on the site so they can add it to their historical attractions map contained in the brochure they provide visitors.
K-----K
Happy to hear from Tom Burke who has been missing from the Korner for a time. Tom wrote, " It's been my fault. I have been overly busy on several fronts and have, consequently, been a bit remiss in some of my communication. We had an issue in town here that split residents into two camps regarding some of the rebuilding after the hurricane Sandy. Not being shy, I got myself in the middle of the issue which led to a referendum and special election which the side I was supporting won. That was intertwined with some minor, yet significant, issues I have been having physically."
Tom also explained he had to get a new computer and lost some email addresses during the transition, including that of the Korner.
K-----K
One of Tom's buddies, John Kueck, informed us of a web link that proved interesting. It was a pictorial tour of all of major league baseball's parks. John said he and wife, Sue, live just a few blocks, walking distance, from Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins and when he was a kid, the family went to Milwaukee and Wrigley Field for games.
K-----K
A couple of people who were important to our community have passed recently. Rev. Thomas Geelan, 78, who served Boone Sacred Heart for several years, died in Ruthven, IA and his services were held there.
James Henry Andrew of Jefferson, 93, passed away and services will be held Thursday in Jefferson. Andrew is the gentleman who had some 5,000 railroad items that he donated to the James H. Andrew Railroad Museum here at the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad site in 2012. He was also a main financial contributor to the Museum.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support.........
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com
At a recent family reunion, the subject of telephone operators came up AND when/how a business transaction suddenly became much more personal.
Example: Jo said that one time she attempted to call a girlfriend time after time but continued getting a "busy" signal. Finally, the operator chimed in, "Jo, your girlfriend lives just up the street, why don't you just walk up there."
Then too, it was mentioned that one individual called a couple of different people seeking a certain relative but with no luck. Finally, again, an operator spoke up telling her the exact location she could find the person she was looking for........."no, no, she's not there or there, she's at so and so's house," the caller was told.
How about it! Anybody out there got any other telephone operator stories?
K-----K
Those of you who are historically minded, particularly regarding Boone County happenings, may find this interesting. The Kornerman was unaware and, perhaps, you are too.
It comes courtesy of former residents Gene Keys and his wife Karen (Helm) who reside in Loveland, CO. The former owners of the Ogden roller rink, Warren and Ruth Christensen, who also now live in Loveland, asked that Gene and Karen do some investigative work while in Boone for Pufferbilly. Specifically, they were asked to find and get some pictures of a monument dedicated to the crash of an Air Force B-24 bomber that had gone down about 10 miles southeast of Boone. Warren had been interested in erecting a monument honoring the crew of that plane and, in fact, put up his own money to have such a project completed. He and some Ogden friends cared for it and the surrounding area but he never took a picture of it before moving west.
Gene said the Boone County Historical Society was checked but had no knowledge of the monument so he and Karen started their own search. He wrote, "we started west bound on E57 south of Boone and across the river. We met several "dead ends" but finally found a farmer that told us exactly where it was located."
"The monument is located on "K" Avenue, a mile south of E57 on the east side of the road. On E57, there is a green marker before you get to "K," indicating with an arrow pointing south, "Historical Marker 1 Mile." The site can also be reached from Highway 169 south of Ogden and turning east on E57.
Editor's Note: It sounds as if the monument may be 10 miles southwest of Boone rather than southeast as Gene had written.
A picture was taken, then at the Ericson Public Library, the couple found a BNR article describing the crash. On July 31, 1943, the plane was on a training mission from Topeka, KS to Duluth, MN when it encountered a severe storm and crashed. Witnesses said it went down in a "ball of flames" and there were no survivors.
Due to the work of Gene and Karen, the Christensen's received a picture of the monument and a copy of the newspaper story and they were " very happy to receive them." Pam Schwartz, Executive Director of the Boone Historical Society, was also provided with the info and said she plans to do more research on the site so they can add it to their historical attractions map contained in the brochure they provide visitors.
K-----K
Happy to hear from Tom Burke who has been missing from the Korner for a time. Tom wrote, " It's been my fault. I have been overly busy on several fronts and have, consequently, been a bit remiss in some of my communication. We had an issue in town here that split residents into two camps regarding some of the rebuilding after the hurricane Sandy. Not being shy, I got myself in the middle of the issue which led to a referendum and special election which the side I was supporting won. That was intertwined with some minor, yet significant, issues I have been having physically."
Tom also explained he had to get a new computer and lost some email addresses during the transition, including that of the Korner.
K-----K
One of Tom's buddies, John Kueck, informed us of a web link that proved interesting. It was a pictorial tour of all of major league baseball's parks. John said he and wife, Sue, live just a few blocks, walking distance, from Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins and when he was a kid, the family went to Milwaukee and Wrigley Field for games.
K-----K
A couple of people who were important to our community have passed recently. Rev. Thomas Geelan, 78, who served Boone Sacred Heart for several years, died in Ruthven, IA and his services were held there.
James Henry Andrew of Jefferson, 93, passed away and services will be held Thursday in Jefferson. Andrew is the gentleman who had some 5,000 railroad items that he donated to the James H. Andrew Railroad Museum here at the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad site in 2012. He was also a main financial contributor to the Museum.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support.........
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com
Saturday, September 27, 2014
Teammates, but A Long Time Ago
Keep in mind, they were teammates a long time ago, like maybe 60 years ago. But much more recently than that, the two had a business transaction not realizing they were teammate members of one of Boone High's best two-mile relay teams.
Willie explained, "yes, that was Miller Drug that sat across from the Citizens National Bank and sitting in my living room is one of the two National Cash Registers from that store. While in Ogden a few years ago, Barbara's brother (Barbara is the former Barbara Rodgers, Willie's wife) Tom Rodgers, had a similar machine that was not in good condition. Tom said he knew someone who had a register that might be better. I talked to the guy on the phone and offered to come and look at it. This didn't seem like a good idea to the fellow who said he would bring it over to me with the caveat that I would buy it if it was in good condition. I agreed. The machine didn't have any serious problems so I forked over the money and took possession. The fellow's name was Joe and his wife was Andrea. I was able to restore the machine to it's original operable condition. Several years later, we were in Ogden again and Barb's dad mentioned my name in a conversation about the cash register with his neighbor Joe and Joe said, "I ran track with Willie." We hadn't recognized each other during that earlier transaction. The members of the two-mile relay team were Joe Smith, me, Pat Ferry and Charlie Hancock and I've always felt lucky to be a part of that, we were the best in Iowa, failed to win just one time and that was because of an accident. I went across the street and visited with Joe."
Editor's note: Joe Smith passed away recently. His wife Andrea, who survives, is the former Andrea Dorman, a former BHS Homecoming Queen.
Willie said there is a picture of the Miller Drug cash register in one of those Pictorial History's of Boone County published by the Boone Today. "It's behind the counter where my sister, Helen, would take me for ice cream sodas in the 1940's."
K-----K
We heard from Mike Sundall recently that his dad, Kenny, was now residing in Cedar Rapids and we encouraged our viewers who knew Kenny to send him a card to let him know we Boone friends hadn't forgotten him. Mike wrote, "Thanks for sending my dad a card. He has it right on his dresser. He's also received other cards and calls from his Boone friends."
Editor's Note: It's not too late to send a card......Living Center East, 1220 5th Avenue S.E., Room 113. Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52403.
Mike added, "I have a question about the former Boone Golf and County Club that may stimulate some activity. If I remember right, the club had a pro who provided golf lessons to the youth in the late 50's or early 60's. Does anybody remember? Also, there have been many great golfers from Boone......Charlie Updegraff, Max Hall, Bob Fisher, Wayne Harrell, Jim Curell etc. Are there others I am missing? The Boone Amateur tournament used to draw top golfers from the region."
Editor's note: Amy Updegraff deserves lots of credit for those golf opportunities for young people back in the 50's and 60's. She was resolute in organizing golf days, golf lessons and tournaments which really spurred much interest among youths about the sport.
Mike mentioned some of the great group of golfers this community has produced but I'll add a few more that come to mind.......Dick Schultz, Bill Modeland, Dick Anderson, Brad Post and I'm, no doubt, missing others who deserve mention.
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Leona Clark, 85, Boone. Luther High grad. Worked at Spurgeon's, Cardinal Cleaners and tailored clothing for Dad and Lad. Boone area survivors include sons Brad and Breck Clark and daughter Brenda Haglund all of Boone...........Margaret Gauger, 90, Boone. Pilot Mound grad-42. Worked in food service for Boone Community schools and was a volunteer at the Boone Hospital gift shop. Boone area survivors include her daughter, Jean Torkildson of Boone.........Carroll Anderson, 79, Boone. Worked with his father and brother in a heating/air conditioning business and then worked at Percival Company. Boone area survivors include his wife, Martha, and son, Greg, and brother, Duane, all of Boone.
Loren Frazier, BHS-58, informs us of two deaths that effect members of the '58 BHS class.
Joy Pollard White's husband, Bill, 81, passed away recently in Odessa, TX. and the wife of Loren Vogler, Eleanore Vogler, 73, passed away in Elk River.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support........
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com
Willie explained, "yes, that was Miller Drug that sat across from the Citizens National Bank and sitting in my living room is one of the two National Cash Registers from that store. While in Ogden a few years ago, Barbara's brother (Barbara is the former Barbara Rodgers, Willie's wife) Tom Rodgers, had a similar machine that was not in good condition. Tom said he knew someone who had a register that might be better. I talked to the guy on the phone and offered to come and look at it. This didn't seem like a good idea to the fellow who said he would bring it over to me with the caveat that I would buy it if it was in good condition. I agreed. The machine didn't have any serious problems so I forked over the money and took possession. The fellow's name was Joe and his wife was Andrea. I was able to restore the machine to it's original operable condition. Several years later, we were in Ogden again and Barb's dad mentioned my name in a conversation about the cash register with his neighbor Joe and Joe said, "I ran track with Willie." We hadn't recognized each other during that earlier transaction. The members of the two-mile relay team were Joe Smith, me, Pat Ferry and Charlie Hancock and I've always felt lucky to be a part of that, we were the best in Iowa, failed to win just one time and that was because of an accident. I went across the street and visited with Joe."
Editor's note: Joe Smith passed away recently. His wife Andrea, who survives, is the former Andrea Dorman, a former BHS Homecoming Queen.
Willie said there is a picture of the Miller Drug cash register in one of those Pictorial History's of Boone County published by the Boone Today. "It's behind the counter where my sister, Helen, would take me for ice cream sodas in the 1940's."
K-----K
We heard from Mike Sundall recently that his dad, Kenny, was now residing in Cedar Rapids and we encouraged our viewers who knew Kenny to send him a card to let him know we Boone friends hadn't forgotten him. Mike wrote, "Thanks for sending my dad a card. He has it right on his dresser. He's also received other cards and calls from his Boone friends."
Editor's Note: It's not too late to send a card......Living Center East, 1220 5th Avenue S.E., Room 113. Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52403.
Mike added, "I have a question about the former Boone Golf and County Club that may stimulate some activity. If I remember right, the club had a pro who provided golf lessons to the youth in the late 50's or early 60's. Does anybody remember? Also, there have been many great golfers from Boone......Charlie Updegraff, Max Hall, Bob Fisher, Wayne Harrell, Jim Curell etc. Are there others I am missing? The Boone Amateur tournament used to draw top golfers from the region."
Editor's note: Amy Updegraff deserves lots of credit for those golf opportunities for young people back in the 50's and 60's. She was resolute in organizing golf days, golf lessons and tournaments which really spurred much interest among youths about the sport.
Mike mentioned some of the great group of golfers this community has produced but I'll add a few more that come to mind.......Dick Schultz, Bill Modeland, Dick Anderson, Brad Post and I'm, no doubt, missing others who deserve mention.
K-----K
Boone Area Deaths: Leona Clark, 85, Boone. Luther High grad. Worked at Spurgeon's, Cardinal Cleaners and tailored clothing for Dad and Lad. Boone area survivors include sons Brad and Breck Clark and daughter Brenda Haglund all of Boone...........Margaret Gauger, 90, Boone. Pilot Mound grad-42. Worked in food service for Boone Community schools and was a volunteer at the Boone Hospital gift shop. Boone area survivors include her daughter, Jean Torkildson of Boone.........Carroll Anderson, 79, Boone. Worked with his father and brother in a heating/air conditioning business and then worked at Percival Company. Boone area survivors include his wife, Martha, and son, Greg, and brother, Duane, all of Boone.
Loren Frazier, BHS-58, informs us of two deaths that effect members of the '58 BHS class.
Joy Pollard White's husband, Bill, 81, passed away recently in Odessa, TX. and the wife of Loren Vogler, Eleanore Vogler, 73, passed away in Elk River.
K-----K
Worldwide Korner headquarters are located at 710 Aldrich, Boone, Iowa 50036-4703. Phone number is 515-432-1530. To email your stories/memories/comments/support........
kelleyskorner1@gmail.com
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