Mary Waybright 1954-2013

Mary Waybright, 59 of Sioux Falls, S.D., died suddenly after a courageous battle with cancer on Thursday, Nov. 28, 2013, at the Sanford Medical Center.

Her funeral service was held Monday, Dec. 2 at the Miller West Funeral Chapel, Sioux Falls.

Mary Lee Waybright, daughter of James and Pearl (Kuhnes) Waybright, was born on August 28, 1954, and grew up in Wessington Springs, S.D., and graduated in 1972.

She attended college at Black Hills State University, South Dakota State University and the University of South Dakota before taking a position in the buying office at John Morrell and Company in Sioux City, Iowa. She took a position as a Postal Clerk with the United States Postal Service in Sioux City, then transferred to Sioux Falls, where she continued until retiring in 2013.

Survivors include her sisters, Reina (Evan) Jordan, Frenchtown, Mont., Debra (Randy) Puffer, Hitchcock, S.D., Shary (Monte) Muchow, Hartford, S.D., and Madonna (Mike) Graanstra, Sioux Falls; four nephews; six nieces; and many other relatives and friends.

For obituary and online registry, visit www.millerfh.com.

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December 5, 1913

W.D. Richmond has discovered a bed of clay on his land in the southeast part of town, which he believes is the proper clay for the burning of brick. He has made a number of experiments with this clay that has strengthened his belief to the extent that he is sending some of the clay to a chemist for analysis.

Ree Heights needs a lawyer. A doctor was advertised for until one was secured. Now a good up and coming attorney is needed who can find steady employment in Ree Heights. At any rate, an attorney would have been busy all last week. Perhaps the office of lawyer and detective might be combined.

If the Editor of this sheet would publish all the stories and reports that have been floating around town during the past week, there would be no room for much of anything else. These stories of alleged rooster stealing, threatened arrests, fistic encounters, pulling of hair, more attempted arrests, fainting fits, etc., are not very edifying, and all pass them up.

December 7, 1923

Mr. and Mrs. Roalstad received a letter from their daughter in Chicago telling that Dave had the lucky number at a picture show recently, which made him an owner of a lot in that city.

The radio contest at Saffron’s Store is causing contestants to work pretty hard. Two radios will be given away at the store the last of the month.

Joe Slager has purchased a new Ford Coupe. He has also purchased the Brisben truck.

December 8, 1933

The fact that a near fatal accident occurred in town Sunday should be a warning not to shoot a 22 rifle in town. A group of youngsters was shooting pigeons at the stockyards Sunday, when a bullet from the rifle went through a window of the McIntire house and passed between two people—lucky accident, but fair warning.

There was another wind storm here Saturday that filled the air with dust, though it was not as dense as the storm two weeks ago, still it was sufficient to penetrate every crack and crevis and caused housewives to just about give up the thought of getting their housecleaning done this fall.

Mr. Walker of Highmore ran into a herd of sheep on the highway west of Ree Heights Sunday, causing the car to turn over in the ditch and burn up. The two occupants escaped with slight injuries. The car was a new Chevrolet.

December 10, 1943

Carl Speirs returned from Aberdeen Wednesday afternoon, where he drove his nephew, Doug Hague and wife and year-old baby on Tuesday to have a safety pin removed from the baby’s esophagus. The baby swallowed it on Monday afternoon. The operation was a success.

Walt Blaseg found a part of a string of machine gun shells in his hayfield recently, which had evidently been lost from an airplane. There were 20 cartridges fastened together with metal clips. Some of the steel points were lost, evidently when they struck the ground.

The regular PTC meeting was held at the school gym with Mrs. Jack Lackey in charge of the business meeting. The social committee then took charge and an “Old Time Party” was then carried out. The sophomore class presented a one-act play; a group of ladies wearing old fashioned dresses and gray bonnets presented a skit, “My Old Gray Bonnet;” a solo by Mrs. Paul Blaseg, Sr.; and a talk by Mrs. N.T. Hickcox; a group of old fashioned songs by Mrs. Don Braden and her chorus; and last, a Virginia reel.

December 11, 1953

The men of Cedar Church met Monday evening and installed a new wood block ceiling in the basement of the church. A new heater and fan system have also been placed in the basement of the church. The ceiling is being paid for by the Homebuilders and the Ladies Aid.

Mrs. Hoyt Nicholas left by bus Sunday morning for Wausau, Wis. to help care for her new grandson, born to her daughter and husband, Mr. and Mrs. Pat Bowar, on November 30. The baby has been named Michael James, and is the first great-grandchild for both Mr. and Mrs. A.I. Nicholas and Mr. and Mrs. Roger Paine.

December 6, 1963

Dr. Thomas K. Hines, a native of Miller, joined the staff of the Hand County Clinic this week, following his release from the Navy. He is associated with Dr. John C. Hagin and Dr. DeGeest, also a native of Miller at the Hand County Clinic.

Dr. John Hagin, with whom Dr. Pangburn became in medical practice here 33 years ago, revealed plans to erect a plaque with appropriate inscription at Crystal Lake city park in Miller. The park became a reality during the 17-year period when Dr. Pangburn served as a member of the City Council. Jim Magness was master of ceremonies at the testimonial dinner for Dr. Pangburn.

On Friday, Nov. 22, 1963, John F. Kennedy, President of the United States, was fatally shot by a sniper from a sixth-story window in Dallas, Texas, as he traveled through the streets of that city on what was termed a good will tour. The Ree Heights School and business places were closed the next Monday in honor of our late President. Memorial services were held in the Ree Heights Church Monday morning at 11 a.m. in honor of our late President.

December 7, 1973

Franklin Deuter was released from the Miller hospital Saturday, where he had been following a heart attack. His daughter Chickie, who had been visiting here, returned to Boston.

A double anniversary dinner was held at the Lips Dining Centre on Sunday for Mr. and Mrs. DeWayne Sivertsen and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Knippling. The dinner was hosted by their brother and sisters, Mr. Alex Lobbin, Mrs. Tom Hasart, Mrs. Gud Jager and Mrs. Gene Smith.

Funeral services were held for Mrs. Faye Barrett, who died suddenly at her home in Miller. Mrs. Barrett, the former Faye Bohen, is the mother of Mrs. Harriet Lawler, Ree Heights. She also has a son, James of Ft. Collins, Colo., and a nephew, Oliver Haas, who she and her husband reared from infancy after the death of his mother.

December 8, 1983

Lorraine Kuper helped the Min-So-Dak CowBelles serve the SCS banquet in Highmore Saturday evening.

Janice Campbell, Deadwood, Laurel Halls and Jim, Deadwood, and Mr. and Mrs. George Campbell, Echuca, Australia, were weekend guests at the Darlene Campbell home. They all attended the wedding of Kathy Schneider and Tom Kennedy of Madison Saturday. The George Campbells will spend a few days here.

Mar Fawcett and Kay Fawcett attended the Tour of Homes at Vayland and Miller Sunday afternoon.

Nutrition Site

Served at Miller Housing sites and home delivered meals

For information, call Wheels & Meals, 853-2869

Thursday, December 12

Spaghetti w/meatballs, sauce, corn, apple turnover, garlic toast

Friday, December 13

Salmon w/dill sauce, baked potato, asparagus, fruited gelatin, bread

Monday, December 16

Chili ‘n beans w/cheese, tossed salad, quartered fruit, corn bread

Tuesday, December 17

Scalloped potatoes

w/ham, corn, bread pudding, bread

Wednesday,

December 18

Rancher’s chicken, Potatoes Anna,

Harvard beets, lemon fruit salad, bread

McKinsie Simons and Brad Fuoss were united in marriage during a 5 p.m. ceremony held at Log Heaven Resort on the bank of the Missouri River near Pierre, S.D., on June 15, 2013. Pastor Brian Wasmoen, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Redfield, officiated.

Parents of the bride are Doug and Kari Simons, St. Lawrence, and parents of the groom are Bob and Diane Fuoss, Draper. Honored guests were Henry and Joanne Elsing, Chelsea, grandparents of the bride; David and Derla Simons, St. Lawrence, grandparents of the bride; John and Ruth Noes, Brooklyn Center, Minn., grandparents of the groom; and Darline Fuoss, Pierre, grandmother of the groom.

Escorted to the altar by her father, the bride was attended by Monica Haar, Ankeny, Iowa, sister of the bride. Bridesmaids were Melanie Wieseler, Lexington, Neb., sister of the bride; Jennifer Moser, Brookings, sister of the groom; and Amber Clement, Sioux Falls, friend of the bride. Nieces of the bride, Grace Wieseler, Emma Haar and Gabrielle Wieseler, were flower girls.

Aaron Huckfeldt, Hay Springs, Neb., friend of the groom, served as best man. Groomsmen were Clayton Miller, Draper, friend of the groom; Trevor Moser, Brookings, brother-in-law of the groom; and Joey Barrett, Castlewood, friend of the groom. Dylan Haar and Griffin Wieseler, nephews of the bride, were the ring bearers.

Ushers were Andrew Bork, Vermillion, friend of the groom; Loni Haar, Ankeny, Iowa, brother-in-law of the bride; and Jeremy Wieseler, Lexington, Neb., brother-in-law of the bride.

The bride’s personal attendants were Bailey Kopplin, Tulare, friend of the bride, and Erin Riley, Cresbard, friend of the bride.

Music for the ceremony was provided by Cleo Kleinsasser, Miller, pianist; Jessica Simons, St. Lawrence and Anna Simons, Mitchell, cousins of the bride, soloists; Lorelei Simons, St. Lawrence, aunt of the bride, guitarist and vocalist; and sharing a special blessing song was Derla Simons, St. Lawrence, grandmother of the bride. Rita Masat, Redfield, friend of the bride, read the scripture readings. A banner especially made for the couple by Kent Elsing, Aberdeen, uncle of the bride, was used to decorate the reception. A bouquet of wheat was placed on the guest book table in memory of the groom’s grandfather, Orville Fuoss. Katlin Gagnon, Sioux Falls, friend of the bride, attended the guest book. Michelle Barrett, Castlewood, and Becca Gregoire, Draper, friends of the couple, were the videographers.

A dinner and dance reception was held following the ceremony. Host and hostesses were Steve, Caroline, Garrett and Ashley Masat, Tulare, friends of the bride, and Dennis, Deb, Tory, Zayne and Seth Snyder, Pierre, family of the bride. The cake was made by the groom’s mother. The emcee for the dance was Brian Hull, Tulare. The bride surprised the groom with a prerecorded song for their first dance.

The bride is a 2009 graduate of Miller High School and a 2013 graduate of South Dakota State University, Brookings, with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She is currently attending the University of South Dakota, Vermillion, pursuing a master’s degree in occupational therapy. The groom is a 2009 graduate of Jones County High School, Murdo, and a 2012 graduate of Lake Area Technical Institute, Watertown, with an associate’s degree in diesel technology. He is currently employed at Truck-Trailer Sales and Service, Yankton. Since their honeymoon in Jamaica, the couple has resided Vermillion.

December 4, 1913

While on his way home from the city Saturday night about 9:30 or 10 o’clock, Nicholas Duehr was thrown from his wagon and instantly killed. He had been to town for a load of coal and, as he lives only four or five miles north, he started home in the dark, with a double box load of coal. It appears the team swerved off the grade and threw Mr. Duehr to the roadside, where he struck his head, which must have caused instant death. His body was not found until early morning when an auto drove by.

This issue of the Press enters upon the 33^rd year of its publication. It is one of the oldest papers in central South Dakota. The “old man” has gone along with the Press for 31 years.

A handsome snake, covered with small spots, was discovered a few days ago in a bunch of bananas in the Sutphen Store. It was put in a box with a wire netting over the top, and placed in the window of the Hambly drug store, where it has attracted considerable attention. Someone has looked up this species of snake, a very poisonous snake of Central America.

November 28, 1963

A shocked nation mourns…November 22, 1963. The nation and world was shocked when the word flashed out over radio and TV networks that the President had been shot. It just couldn’t happen to a man that in a short time had captured the respect and admiration of people throughout the nation and the world. The President is dead ~

Long live the President ~ Now we must stand united under President Lyndon B. Johnson, who, without warning, assumed the heavy burden of the President of the United States.

Miller observed the national holiday last Monday, and joined the nation in mourning the loss of President John F. Kennedy. City stores, county, state and federal offices remained closed during the day. Schools did not open. Catholic and Protestant church services were scheduled Monday.

November 29, 1973

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Wessington, observed its Golden Jubilee November 18. Fr. Dudek, Fr. Albin and Fr. Molumby concelebrated the 3 p.m. Mass. Fr. Albin and Fr. Molumby gave the homily, St. Joseph’s choir furnished the music with Mrs. Paulsen at the organ.

Renae Veskrna, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leo Veskrna, was crowned 1973 Snow Queen at the festival held last Saturday night. First runner up was Theresa Coss, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bill Coss, whose sister was chosen as State Snow Queen last January.

A double anniversary dinner was held at the Lips Dining Centre Sunday for Mr. and Mrs. DeWayne Sivertsen and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Knippling. The dinner was given by their brother and sisters, Mr. Alex Lobban, Mrs. Tom Hasart, Mrs. Gus Jager and Mrs. Gene Smith.

November 30, 1983

Miss Tonja Waring, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jim (Norma) Waring, was selected from among 23 candidates to reign as Miller’s 1984 Snow Queen. She was crowned by the 1983 Snow Queen, Barbara Melber.

Funeral services for James (J.C.) Jones, 92, long-time pharmacist in Miller, will be held December 2. Jones came to Miller in 1930 and started Jones Drug Store.

Kea Ufen, a second-year student at Cottey College, Nevada, Mo., has been named to Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges. She is the daughter of Jack and Ramona Ufen of Miller.

November 29, 1993

Ellie Cotton was officially installed as postmaster in St. Lawrence Friday, Nov. 19. She had been officer-in-charge at St. Lawrence since October 1992, and served as postmaster relief there since 1986.

The Miller Rustlers girls’ basketball team has recorded another perfect season, winning 22 games so far and running their streak to 71 straight games. They advanced to the state tournament with a 52-33 win over the Black Panthers of Platte.

Ed Stobbs has been doing business in Miller at the corner of East 2^nd Ave. and East 3^rd St. for 56 years now, longer than any other businessperson in Miller can claim to have been doing business at the same location. Ed started his operation in 1937, with $100 and a 1935 Ford to his name.

December 3, 2003

The new Miller Snow Queen was chosen last Saturday night during the Snow Queen Festival. Gina Neu will represent Miller at the state contest in Aberdeen.

Less than one week after receiving an alert notice, members of the S.D. Army National Guard’s 2^nd Battalion, 147^th Field Artillery received their notice Nov. 25 for activation in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. This will include the Miller unit.

Second only to the National Finals Rodeo, The Dodge Nation Circuit Finals Rodeo is the crowning event of the PRCA’s circuit system of competition…and after 11 years of perfecting his sport, local cowboy Wade Yost of Ree Heights is receiving so well-deserved glory. Yost qualified for the Dodge finals this month.

RETROSPECT

Frank “Rudy” Henderson

Frank “Rudy” Henderson (1942-46) lettered in track and football, and was especially proficient in basketball. He lettered in football in 1944 and 1945, and was a member of the 1945 Central Conference championship team. He lettered in track in 1945 and 1946. He was a 1945 qualifier in discus at the State “A” meet. In 1946, he was a qualifier in shot put at the State “A” meet, and placed fourth in discus at the state level.

He was a five-year letterman in basketball, from 1942 to 1946. In both 1945 and 1946, he was on the All-State “B” first team. In 1945, he was a member of the State “B” Tournament fourth-place team, and was a member of the district and regional championship teams. In 1946, he was also a member of the district and regional championship teams; was a member of the State “B” Tournament fifth-place team; and was a member of the Central Conference championship team.

Kim Templeton (1968-1972) was a one-year letterman in track (1970), and a two-year letterman in football (1970 and 1971). He was a member of the 1970 and 1971 undefeated teams, and those same years was a member of the Central Conference championship teams.

In basketball, Templeton was a three-year letterman, starter (1970-72). He was a member of the 1970, ’71 and ’72 Central Conference championship teams. In 1972, he was named to the All-State “A” first team, and was an All-Tournament first team member. To top it off, he was a member of the State “A” championship undefeated team.

Templeton was named to the South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011.

Jane Lewis (1976-1980) was a one-year letter winner in gymnastics in 1978. In basketball, she was a four-year letter winner (1976-1979). In 1976, she was a member of the State “A” Tournament fourth-place team. In 1977 and 1978, she was a member of the All-State “A” second team, and in 1979 she was a member of the district championship team, and the All-State “B” second team.

Lewis also excelled in track, and was a three-year letter winner (1978-80). In 1978, she was a member of the Central Conference Championship team, and was a qualifier in discus at the State “AA” meet. In 1980, she placed fourth in shot put at the State “A” meet. That year she also was an individual State “A” champion in discus, at 131 feet.

She won the 1980 Gib Thomas award as Outstanding MHS Senior Athlete.

Erica Schroeder Ramsey (1998-2002) was active in basketball, volleyball and especially track. She was a five-year letter winner (1997-2001) in basketball, and was selected to the S.D. High School “North Team” All-Star Game in 2002.

She was a four-year letter winner in volleyball (1999-2002). She was on the 2000 All-State “A” second team, and on the 2001 and 2002 All-State first team. From 2000 to 2002, she was an All-Tournament first team member. In 2002, she was selected for the S.D. High School “North Team” All-Star Game.

Ramsey was a six-year letter winner (1997-2002) in track.

In 1998, she was a member of the sprint medley relay team, which placed eighth.

In 1999, she placed first in the 200-meter dash (26.51); first in the 400-meter dash (58.18); was a member of the first-place 1600-meter relay team, 4:08.89; and was a member of the sprint medley relay team, which placed second. She set two school records that year, in the 400-meter dash (58.18) and as a member of the 1600-meter relay team (4.07.8).

In 2000, she had second place in the 400-meter dash and second as a sprint medley relay team member. First places were garnered in the 200-meter dash (26.23), and as a team in the 1600-meter relay (4.080.76). She was selected to participate in the Howard Wood Dakota Relays Special Event, in the 200-meter dash. In 2001, she placed second in the 200-meter dash, third in the 400-meter dash, fourth in the 100-meter dash, and sixth in the 1600-meter relay team.

Come the 2002 season, Ramsey was a team member of the 400-meter relay, which placed fifth, and the 1600-meter relay, which placed sixth. She placed sixth in the 400-meter dash and seventh in the 200-meter dash. Again, she was selected for the Howard Wood Dakota Relays Special Event, in the 400-meter dash.

Her accomplishments include 17 State “A” Track Meet placings, including five as a state champion.

Charlie Sizer has gleaned so many athletic honors over the years, it is nearly impossible to calculate them all. He started the MHS Hall of Fame in 2009, and now it is his turn to be honored in the contributor/coach category.

He came to Miller in 1978, and began as a football and boys’ basketball coach, as well as a business teacher. He went on to be involved in teaching and coaching for 35 years, and serving as athletic director for 20 years.

Sizer coached and assisted boys’ basketball, football, junior high boys’ basketball, and boys’ and girls’ golf, as well as girls’ basketball. In addition he was Rodeo Club advisor for 10 years and prom advisor for 25 years.

He was named to the Jamestown College Hall of Fame in 1993, and received the Rollie Greeno coaching award from that college in 2013. He received the Joel Haring “I Love Wrestling” award from MHS in 2013.

Honors include: South Dakota Coach of the Year in 1985 and 1992; first place in 1991 and 1992 at the girls’ basketball State “A” Tournament, second place in 1993, and third place in 1985; five conference tournament championships; eight girls’ basketball district championships and four region girls’ basketball championships.

Sizer coached the girls’ basketball team to 73 consecutive wins, a record for Class “A” girls’ basketball. And Miller’s girls’ basketball was named Team of the Year in 1993.

Over the years, Sizer has received three region Athletic Director of the Year awards, five region Golf Coach of the Year honors, and four region Girls’ Basketball Coach of the Year.

He credits his accomplishments to support from the students, athletes, parents and the Miller community.

From Internet coverage photos
SUPER TYPHOON HAIYAN left stunning damage. Especially hard-hit was the the city of Tacloban on the island of Leyte, where many of Flora Ames’ family members lived.

Many people are no doubt aware of the monster Typhoon Haiyan that devastated portions of Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines, in early November.

The typhoon, known as Typhoon Yolanda in the Philippines, formed November 7, and dissipated by November 11. It was at its peak intensity on November 7. Haiyan is the deadliest Philippine typhoon on record, and the strongest storm recorded at landfall, and unofficially the fourth strongest typhoon ever recorded in terms of wind speed.

Flora Ames has lived south of Miller for seven years, but she grew up in the Philippines, living primarily in Manila.

She explained, “My mom is from the island of Leyte, and most of her immediate family lived in Tacloban.” Tacloban is a city of about 220,000 on that island, and it was the worst hit by Haiyan.

When the storm hit, Flora says there was no way to communicate with relatives in the Philippines. “I finally got in contact with a nephew in Manila, and from there I was able to get contacts to Leyte.”

In her own words, “It has been weeks that I wondered how my relatives have been doing. For days…weeks. I was monitoring the news, looking for their names on the survivors’ list in the Tacloban area.” The names she was looking for weren’t there.

“Finally, after weeks of searching, my cousin’s voice came on the phone and broke the news. Unexpected news, the worst news I’ve ever gotten. She said, ‘All of them died. Only one survived.’ These were our aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces.”

With sorrow in her voice, Flora said, “Fifty to sixty members of our clan, our family, lost their lives in Tacloban.”

She related that, in watching coverage of the disaster, it occurred to her that some of her relatives could be in the body bags shown on television.

“Many bodies have not been found. Many that have been found will be buried in mass graves, unidentified.”

Flora explained that her mother died in 2002…but all her remaining relatives were concentrated in the province of Leyte. She has some relatives in the U.S. on her late father’s side…but on her mother’s side, family has basically been “washed away.”

Flora says Leyte is almost a total wreck. “I think towering waves did the damage,” she commented.

Authorities agree, stating, “Most of the deaths appear to have been caused by surging sea water strewn with debris, leveling housing and drowning hundreds of people in one of the worst disasters to hit the typhoon-prone Southeast Asia nation.”

Survivors are coping with loss and are homeless, including the cousin who spoke to Flora. “She lost their house, along with 300 other families in that far-flung town miles away from the raging waves of the sea. They don’t have shelter. Every family tries to find ways to shelter themselves with something they can put above their heads. It rains most of the time.”

There was one bright spot, Flora says, because an aunt escaped a terrible death. “She went to Manila with her husband to visit their daughter a week before Haiyan hit Leyte.” But, the aunt also lost her parents, all her siblings and the rest of their families.

Reports say at least 9.7 million people in 41 provinces were affected by the typhoon, and it is likely the deadliest natural disaster to hit the Philippines. “Entire villages were destroyed and cities devastated by huge waves and winds of nearly 150 mph.”

For Flora, the loss is on a personal level. She and her husband Don live south of Miller, at the Hiway Store location, far away from tidal waves and crushing winds…but she mourns her family members who were in the path of the typhoon.

“Fr. Jim Friedrich has offered to hold a Memorial Mass for my relatives at Duncan St. Placidus Church,” Flora related. “It will be Thursday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. People around the area are welcome to come. It’s a way to remember the family members, because of course we don’t know what happened to them, or where they might have been buried.”

(Aside: Numerous agencies are helping the typhoon victims, such as The American Red Cross, Shelterbox, Doctors Without Borders and World Vision. On the Internet, type in www.weather.com/news/super-typhoon-haiyan-aid-groups.)

Miller’s City Council met December 2.

Fire chief Steve Resel gave his monthly report. New lights have been installed at the front of the fire hall. He said the Miller firefighters decided to not apply for a National Firefighters Grant, noting there are many regulations required to qualify for such a grant, which makes it difficult for a volunteer fire department to be considered.

However, he did say the fire department is setting aside what they can every year, in hopes of being able to get a new truck at a later date.

Phil Gerard, with Miller Livestock, met with the council about security lights. He said there are 18 lights at the salebarn facility, and he was told in May that Miller Livestock would be charged six dollars per light monthly ($108 total), which would include maintenance. Gerard said the facility had never been charged before, but he didn’t object; however, he said he has been paying, but not receiving any maintenance. “A pole went down in July, and it’s never been fixed,” he stated. “If there’s no maintenance, I want my money back.”

Council members said they would check with the electric department regarding the charges and maintenance.

The City voted to approve the joint cooperative agreement with NECOG (Northeast Council of Governments). The City and County are both allocated a local share amount in order to be a member, and each entity benefits from the affiliation, by way of grants and other funding programs, help with planning, development of resources, etc.

Discussion was held about appraisal of lot 5, block 4 in the Mitcheltree Addition, which is where the old water tower was located, and is approximately 84×138 feet. The City had received inquiry about selling the property. The council agreed to hire a real estate broker to appraise the property correctly, and to offer the appraisal to Dan Coss.

The council approved the first reading of Ordinance 649, which is the annual appropriations budget for 2014. Finance officer Sheila Coss said the appropriations had been approved in September, but with the new City software, the figures are now in compliance with the State Chart of Accounts. However, the General Fund total appropriations remains the same.

Total General Fund appropriations total $1,344,149.00. Capital Improvement Fund (airport) is $2,000,000.00, with financing coming from federal and state grants, and industrial development. Enterprise Fund appropriations (water, sewer, electricity) totaled $2,958,087.00. Appropriations totaled $6,302,236.00.

The first reading of Ordinance 650 was also approved, which will amend the electrical rate to be charged by the Miller Municipal Electric System.

The second reading and adoption for both ordinances will be at the December 16 council meeting.

Submitted
1985 WRESTLING TEAM members were, front l to r, John Rombough, Chris Fanning, Tim Venjohn, Coach Paul Fischenich, Coach Jarvis DeBerg, Chad Roeseler, Student Manager Joel Haring. Second row, Lance Coss, Rob Rombough, Lynn Wagner, Corey Werdel. Back row, Wade Lager, Brian Bertsch and Gary Namanny.

The Miller High School induction ceremony for the 2013 Athletic Hall of Fame will be held Saturday, Dec. 21.

The ceremony will take place at the Miller Armory, during the girls’ basketball games against Northwestern. Hall of Fame organizer Bob Lager says the induction will take place right before the girls’ varsity gets underway.

Named this year to the Hall of Fame will be Frank “Rudy” Henderson, athlete category; Jane Lewis, athlete category; Erica Schroeder Ramsey, athlete category; Kim Templeton, athlete category; the 1985 Rustlers wrestling team; and Charlie Sizer, contributor/coach category.

The 1985 MHS wrestling team won the State “B” championship, with 139.5 points. Individual placings at the tournament include Chris Fanning and Gary Namanny, non-qualifiers; Chad Roesler, Lance Coss and Tim Venjohn, qualifiers; John Rombough, fifth; Corey Werdel and Rob Rombough, fourth; Lynn Wagner and Brian Bertsch, second; and Wade Lager, who was a state champion and was voted the “Outstanding Wrestler of the Tournament.”

That season, they had a season dual record of 14 wins and one loss. In addition to winning the State “B” championship, the placed first at the Mitchell Tournament, Parkston Tournament, Central Conference Tournament, District Tournament and Regional Tournament. They placed second at the Sioux Falls Tournament.

Frank “Rudy” Henderson (1942-46) lettered in track and football, and was especially proficient in basketball. He lettered in football in 1944 and 1945, and was a member of the 1945 Central Conference championship team. He lettered in track in 1945 and 1946. He was a 1945 qualifier in discus at the State “A” meet. In 1946, he was a qualifier in shot put at the State “A” meet, and placed fourth in discus at the state level.

He was a five-year letterman in basketball, from 1942 to 1946. In both 1945 and 1946, he was on the All-State “B” first team. In 1945, he was a member of the State “B” Tournament fourth-place team, and was a member of the district and regional championship teams. In 1946, he was also a member of the district and regional championship teams; was a member of the State “B” Tournament fifth-place team; and was a member of the Central Conference championship team.

Kim Templeton (1968-1972) was a one-year letterman in track (1970), and a two-year letterman in football (1970 and 1971). He was a member of the 1970 and 1971 undefeated teams, and those same years was a member of the Central Conference championship teams.

In basketball, Templeton was a three-year letterman, starter (1970-72). He was a member of the 1970, ’71 and ’72 Central Conference championship teams. In 1972, he was named to the All-State “A” first team, and was an All-Tournament first team member. To top it off, he was a member of the State “A” championship undefeated team.

Templeton was named to the South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011.

Jane Lewis (1976-1980) was a one-year letter winner in gymnastics in 1978. In basketball, she was a four-year letter winner (1976-1979). In 1976, she was a member of the State “A” Tournament fourth-place team. In 1977 and 1978, she was a member of the All-State “A” second team, and in 1979 she was a member of the district championship team, and the All-State “B” second team.

Lewis also excelled in track, and was a three-year letter winner (1978-80). In 1978, she was a member of the Central Conference Championship team, and was a qualifier in discus at the State “AA” meet. In 1980, she placed fourth in shot put at the State “A” meet. That year she also was an individual State “A” champion in discus, at 131 feet.

She won the 1980 Gib Thomas award as Outstanding MHS Senior Athlete.

Erica Schroeder Ramsey (1998-2002) was active in basketball, volleyball and especially track. She was a five-year letter winner (1997-2001) in basketball, and was selected to the S.D. High School “North Team” All-Star Game in 2002.

She was a four-year letter winner in volleyball (1999-2002). She was on the 2000 All-State “A” second team, and on the 2001 and 2002 All-State first team. From 2000 to 2002, she was an All-Tournament first team member. In 2002, she was selected for the S.D. High School “North Team” All-Star Game.

Ramsey was a six-year letter winner (1997-2002) in track.

In 1998, she was a member of the sprint medley relay team, which placed eighth.

In 1999, she placed first in the 200-meter dash (26.51); first in the 400-meter dash (58.18); was a member of the first-place 1600-meter relay team, 4:08.89; and was a member of the sprint medley relay team, which placed second. She set two school records that year, in the 400-meter dash (58.18) and as a member of the 1600-meter relay team (4.07.8).

In 2000, she had second place in the 400-meter dash and second as a sprint medley relay team member. First places were garnered in the 200-meter dash (26.23), and as a team in the 1600-meter relay (4.080.76). She was selected to participate in the Howard Wood Dakota Relays Special Event, in the 200-meter dash. In 2001, she placed second in the 200-meter dash, third in the 400-meter dash, fourth in the 100-meter dash, and sixth in the 1600-meter relay team.

Come the 2002 season, Ramsey was a team member of the 400-meter relay, which placed fifth, and the 1600-meter relay, which placed sixth. She placed sixth in the 400-meter dash and seventh in the 200-meter dash. Again, she was selected for the Howard Wood Dakota Relays Special Event, in the 400-meter dash.

Her accomplishments include 17 State “A” Track Meet placings, including five as a state champion.

Charlie Sizer has gleaned so many athletic honors over the years, it is nearly impossible to calculate them all. He started the MHS Hall of Fame in 2009, and now it is his turn to be honored in the contributor/coach category.

He came to Miller in 1978, and began as a football and boys’ basketball coach, as well as a business teacher. He went on to be involved in teaching and coaching for 35 years, and serving as athletic director for 20 years.

Sizer coached and assisted boys’ basketball, football, junior high boys’ basketball, and boys’ and girls’ golf, as well as girls’ basketball. In addition he was Rodeo Club advisor for 10 years and prom advisor for 25 years.

He was named to the Jamestown College Hall of Fame in 1993, and received the Rollie Greeno coaching award from that college in 2013. He received the Joel Haring “I Love Wrestling” award from MHS in 2013.

Honors include: South Dakota Coach of the Year in 1985 and 1992; first place in 1991 and 1992 at the girls’ basketball State “A” Tournament, second place in 1993, and third place in 1985; five conference tournament championships; eight girls’ basketball district championships and four region girls’ basketball championships.

Sizer coached the girls’ basketball team to 73 consecutive wins, a record for Class “A” girls’ basketball. And Miller’s girls’ basketball was named Team of the Year in 1993.

Over the years, Sizer has received three region Athletic Director of the Year awards, five region Golf Coach of the Year honors, and four region Girls’ Basketball Coach of the Year.

He credits his accomplishments to support from the students, athletes, parents and the Miller community.

Jaimi M. Lammers | The Miller Press

You Better Not Cry. Second graders advised, “…you better not cry, you better not pout…” at the Miller Elementary Christmas Concert last Friday night. A full photo album appears on The Miller Press’ Facebook page, www.facebook.com/TheMillerPress.

Nutrition Site

Nutrition Site

Served at Miller Housing sites and home delivered meals

For information, call Wheels & Meals, 853-2869

Thursday, December 19

Polish sausage, oven roasted potatoes, sauerkraut, kuchen, bread

Friday, December 20

Lemon pepper fish, potato supreme, steamed broccoli, apricots, bread

Monday, December 23

Pork tenderloin w/rice, steamed California blend, pineapple/cherry cup

Tuesday, December 24

Ham loaf, mashed potatoes/gravy, glazed carrots, apple crisp, bread

Wednesday, December 25

Merry Christmas – no meals

Ruth A. Moller

In this beautiful Christmas season, it’s so ingrained to focus on roly-poly Santas, elves, ho-ho-ho music, and gift giving. And for people around the world, we celebrate the birth of a Baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, and visits from angels, shepherds and Wise Men. We sing beautiful carols, attend midnight services…and savor the holiday.

But a couple of other December happenings guided me to a different thought process this year.

I received an e-mail reminder that December 7 marked the 72nd anniversary of the Pearl Harbor bombing that saw 2,402 American soldiers killed, and another 1,282 wounded. It was an event that sent shock waves through our nation, and changed the course of World War II…and history.

When I worked at University Relations in Crookston, every December 7 my secretary observed the date, because it was burned in her memory, just as 9-11 is for many people today who lived through that event.

It is important to remember the sacrifices that were made, and the many soldiers that were lost December 7, as well as the many who were then catapulted into a war far away from home.

They all paid a high price for freedom, freedom which we continue to enjoy all these many years later.

Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first black president, died on December 5, at the age of 95.

Mandela also paid a high price for freedom. He spent 27 years in prison for incitement and illegally leaving the country. His years behind bars made him the world’s most celebrated political prisoner and a leader for millions of black South Africans and other oppressed people far beyond his country’s borders. He was finally released in 1990, and led the peaceful transition from white-only rule, and became one of the world’s most celebrated statesmen.

A quote regarding his death was, “He achieved more than could be expected of any man.”

But his “price” was a heavy one…with nearly three decades spent in prison.

And if we look beyond the wonder of the Christmas story, Christian belief says that Baby would grow up to pay another huge price…for the sake of freedom for humanity.

His early-day followers, and many others down through the centuries have also paid a heavy price for their belief. I’m not sure too many people today are willing to be martyrs for a cause, no matter how much they believe in it. And those followers weren’t just practicing their faith, they were trying to spread the “good news” to people throughout the world.

I’d like to think I could bravely stand up for a belief…be it patriotic, religious or trying to make dramatic changes in a government. But be it the men and women who went to war, or a man who tried to change the course of his country, or Jesus and his followers—it takes a great deal of fortitude to be willing to actually follow through, and risk life and limb.

I love the Christmas story. We picture the innocent Baby, the shepherds and Wise Men and a bright star. I love to put up the Advent wreath and my time-worn Nativity set. It’s comforting.

But at the same time, Herod was having other innocent babies killed. The Holy Family had to flee to Egypt.

One of my nieces says her favorite holiday is Easter, because it is the fulfillment of what came after a tiny baby was born.

So this season, as we sing carols and revel in the holiday season, let’s also remember the price of freedom that has been paid. Be it the WWII men and women who put their lives on hold, or an indomitable man in South Africa, or the early Christians who forged ahead with nothing to go on but faith.

As has been said many times before: Freedom isn’t free. 

What price freedom?

December 11, 1913

Saturday night, word was telephoned to town from the Westmire place in Greenleaf Twp. that Robt. M. Wilson had been badly hurt by a young man named “Billy” Paul. Mr. Wilson says he went to the barn to attend to his horses and someone shot at him twice. He was then attacked by a pitchfork, which was gouged into his head and face. The assailant ran out of the barn and disappeared…the affair is supposed to be the outgrowth of a warrant sworn out by Wilson and Mr. Hammond for stealing. Paul was in town Friday and learned of the warrant. After the attack, Paul stole a horse and struck north. Others followed him as far as Rockham, where the trail was lost.

Thursday night after the Commercial Club entertainment and dance closed, a businessman who lives on main street, went to the Vanderbilt Hotel and stayed there quite some time. When he started home, the lights were out and it was dark and foggy. A man stepped out, asked where he was going, and followed the businessman. The businessman got to his place of business and got inside, took up a loaded revolver and walked out the door. He stuck the gun in the fellow’s face, and the man went away, protesting he wasn’t looking for trouble.

Wessington: Dr. H.H. Aldrich reports the arrival of a 12 ½ pound girl at the Wm. Sass home southwest of town. This makes something near the “baker’s dozen.” A few more families like the Sasses, and the country wouldn’t be so sparsely settled.

December 5, 1963

Patty Roduner won the Snow Queen Contest sponsored by the Miller Music Parents Association here Nov. 29. Connie Roach and Marcia Dristy were first and second runners-up.

Births at the Miller Hospital, Nov. 26-Dec. 2: Mr. and Mrs. Spencer Campbell, girl, Nov. 26; Mr. and Mrs. David Naber, girl, Nov. 28; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Tong, boy, Dec. 1; Mr. and Mrs. Roger Sterrett, twin boys, Dec. 2; Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Heitzman, Wessington, girl, Dec. 2.

Mr. and Mrs. Merle Keating were passing through Dallas at the time of President Kennedy’s assassination, but they didn’t know it had taken place until some time after they left the city. When they reached Dallas they found the traffic so dense, they turned off the radio to concentrate on driving.

December 6, 1973

1973 Soil and Moisture Conservation Contest winners were honored at a Monday evening banquet. Winners were Jim Gerdes, first; Harvey Faulstich, second; and Arnold Johnson, third.

Announcement was made last week of the sale of the Crossman Hatchery to Donald “Casey” Schultz, who has taken over the ownership from Lee Crossman. Schultz has been with the firm the past 13 years. The Crossman Hatchery was opened in Miller in 1935 by Mr. and Mrs. A.B. Crossman, and is still located in the original building.

Mr. and Mrs. Ross Rumelhart of Miller will observe their 70th wedding anniversary December 6. The Rumelharts have been residents of Hand County since 1921, and of Miller since 1947.

December 7, 1983

Jerry Dvorak was an apparent victim of carbon monoxide Sunday night. He was found in his car in the parking lot across the street south of Lips Dining Center, with the motor running and the door locked. Patrolman Schwartz also found that a vacuum cleaner hose was attached to the exhaust pipe and running up through a hole in the floor of the car.

John Froning, a senior at MHS, has been named the school’s top Century III Leader. He is now eligible to compete with other local winners for one of two scholarships and an all-expense-paid trip to the national convention in Williamsburg, Va.

There is only YCL (Young Citizens League) still meeting in South Dakota, and that is in the Miller School system. Luella Schultz’s sixth graders continue to learn about participatory democracy and have fun while they’re doing it.

December 6, 1993

Tammy Wilber won the 1993 Snow Queen crown at festivities November 28. Rochelle Cundy was named Junior Snow Queen.

Misty Stevens is providing the rest of us the opportunity to make sure children receive a special gift. Again this year, she is sponsoring the Angel Tree at Midwest Supply.

The Rustlers are one step closer to their third State A title after downing the Tri-Valley Mustangs 44-39 in the opening round of the state tournament at Huron Thursday night.

December 10, 2003

Area residents are invited to take a break from their own holiday preparations and tour five homes in Miller brimming with holiday spirit. Proceeds go to the Blachford House.

The Christmas Live Nativity will be presented Sunday, Dec. 14 at Sunshine Bible Academy. This year, Valerie Augspurger will portray Mary and Ezra Mehlhoff will portray Joseph.

Jean T. DeHaven, 75, of Wessington, died December 3. He was an outstanding auctioneer and was one of the founders of the Highmore Livestock Auction. In 1966, Jean put together a 20-mule team wagon train and drove them from Death Valley, Calif., to Montreal, Quebec.

RETROSPECT

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church, Miller

Pastor Joseph Raleigh

Broadway Ave., Phone: 853-3989

Dec. 22 – Christmas service, children’s program – 10 a.m.

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve worship – 7 p.m.

CATHOLIC CHURCHES

St. Ann Catholic Church, Miller

Father Chester Murtha

709 E. 4th St., Phone: 853-2207

Dec. 18 – CCD play, 4 p.m.

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve Mass – 10 p.m.

Dec. 25 – Christmas Day Mass – 9 a.m.

Jan. 1 – Mass, 7:30 p.m.

St. Joseph Church, Wessington

Father Chester Murtha, Phone: 853-2207

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve Mass – 4 p.m.

Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve Mass — 5:30 p.m.

St. Joseph’s Church, Orient

Father JoJi Itukulapati, Phone: 598-6590

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve Mass – 8 p.m.

St. Liborius Church, Polo

Father Chester Murtha, Phone: 853-2207

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve Mass – 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve Mass – 7:30 p.m.

St. Placidus Church (Duncan)

Gann Valley, SD

Father Jim Friedrich, Phone: 539-9569

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve service – 4 p.m.

COMMUNITY CHURCHES

Pleasant Valley Church, Miller

Pastor Glenn Stewart, Phone: 853-3925

Dec. 24 – Candlelight service – 5:30 p.m.

Ree Heights Church

Pastor Sheena Thomson

No Christmas services

St. Lawrence Community Church

Pastor Scot Tutt, Phone: 853-3753

815 3^rd St. NW (between St. Lawrence and Miller)

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve service – 5 p.m.

INTERDENOMINATIONAL

New Beginnings Worship Center

Rev. Daryn Pederson

1123 East Third Street, Phone: 853-2558

Dec. 22 – Children’s Christmas play – 10:30 a.m.

LUTHERAN CHURCH

Trinity Lutheran Church, Miller

Rev. Max Miller

707 E. 1st Ave., Phone: 853-2446

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve candlelight service, Holy Communion – 5:30 p.m.

METHODIST CHURCH

United Methodist Church, Miller

Pastor Mark Johnsen

610 E. 4th Ave., Phone: 853-3656

December 24 – Christmas Eve service – 5 p.m.

MORMON/LATTER DAY SAINTS

Wayne Ames, Branch President

1025 East Third Ave., Miller, 853-2826

Regular Sunday worship – 10 a.m.

NAZARENE CHURCH

215 W. 9th, Miller

Regular worship, Sunday School – 9:30 a.m.; Worship – 11 a.m.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

First Presbyterian Church

Pastor Brian Jones

321 West 1st Ave., Phone 853-3386

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve candlelight service – 5 p.m.

Submitted

MILLER LIONS met at the Hand County Courthouse December 13 to assemble 35 food baskets, which were delivered on Saturday, Dec. 14. Since Christmas is a time of giving, it is only fitting that the community thinks of others.  Appreciation to all who donated food items for the Miller Lions to distribute this year at Christmas time. Special recognition to Elaine Carey for all the help getting this project organized at the courthouse. Christmas baskets have been an annual project of the Miller Lions for many years. The Miller Lions and Lions International are service organizations with the motto “We Serve.” If interested in other Lions projects or becoming a member of the Miller Lions, contact Ken Schaefer, club president, or any Lions member. Pictured, front l to r, Del Wientjes, Vernon Joy and Ken Schaefer. Back row, Dave Wientjes, Karen Kleinsasser, Dr. Joel Huber, JoDean Joy, Roy Fauth, John Beaner and Orville Kleinsasser. Others who helped deliver the food baskets were Mark and Diane Wangsness and Laine Warkenthien.

Submitted

THE MILLER CIVIC AND COMMERCE donated a check to the Miller Community Center for $5,000. Greg Palmer, Miller Civic and Commerce president, hands a $5,000 check to Joe Beranek, vice president of the Miller Community Center Committee. Also pictured are some of the members of the Miller Civic and Commerce board: l to r, Katie Eschenbaum, Amber Werdel, Shar Ruhnke, Leah Baloun, Nancy Lewellen, and Mike Ruth. Other Community Center Committee board members (not pictured) are Ron Blachford, Tony Rangel, Pete DeGeest, Lorelei Simons, Linda Blackburn and Maynard Deuter.

The Miller School Board held its regular December meeting December 9.

During the financial report, board members questioned the capital projects fund, which shows a minus balance. Board chair David Fremark replied the balance reflects the district “didn’t borrow enough” for the elementary building project. “We borrowed $5.6 million, which was what we were told we needed,” he said. “But that did not include ‘soft costs,’ such as paving, landscaping and other amounts.”

Superintendent Mike Ruth said monies had been borrowed from funds that had a substantial surplus, and tax monies coming in should rectify the problem. He commented that Roy Fauth of Kohlman, Bierschbach & Anderson, LLP, who completed the school’s audit October 31, did not indicate concern about the finances, but the board agreed to not undertake large projects until more funds become available.

Elementary principal Tammy Caffee said the Elementary Student Council saw a $250 profit from T-shirt sales. She is about two-thirds down with formal teacher evaluations.

Caffee said she and the elementary teachers examined the “Smarter Balanced” assessment system, which will be part of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Caffee said the sample items and performance tasks are intended to help implement the CCSS and prepare for the Smarter Balanced assessments, and commented it will take study to get used to the system.

She also commented that students seem to be healthier this season, basing her view on the number of tissues the students have used, and said the new school environment may play a role in her observations.

Secondary principal Steve Schumacher reported semester tests will be given December 19 and 20, and the second semester will begin January 6. Winter sports are underway. Miller students participated at the state oral interp contest, and the FFA State Leadership CDEs had just been held at Pierre. Several students participated, and Tate Ketelhut placed first individually in the ag sales category.

The student WEB Leaders will be holding a food drive for Helping Hands. A tutoring program has been implemented, and Schumacher said results seem positive.

Supt. Ruth acknowledged students with Rustler Rah-Rahs, including those who had attended the FFA State Leadership CDE and placed; besides Tate Ketelhut, Tia Pawlowski placed eighth in ag broadcast/journalism, and the ag communications team (Ashley Bertsch, Hiedi Hoftiezer and Kendra Krosch) placed fifth in ag communications. The cross country team were region champions and placed fifth at the state meet, and Cole Sargent placed 10th and Mason Breitling 11th individually. Kristen Peterka and Jamie Mentzer were named to volleyball all-conference, with Denae Schlechter receiving honorable mention; Devon Gnat and Paul Waring were named to first team football all-conference, with Luke Simons and Josh McEwen receiving honorable mention. Students who participated in state oral interpretation were Sylvia Wieseler, Martina Kittelson-Caviness, Brooke Fawcett, Clayton Keck, Ashley Gaspar and Trey Waldrop.

Ruth discussed the possibility of an alternative calendar, a four-day school week for the 2014-15 year. He reported teachers had voted in favor of moving forward to consider the change, with 63 percent in favor and 37 opposed. In the long run, the school board would make the decision.

A lengthy discussion followed, and finally the board determined the present calendar already includes many four-day weeks, and shortening the days students attend class even more could be detrimental regarding getting material covered. The consensus was to leave the calendar as is.

Ruth said the Governor’s budget address calls for a three percent increase in school funding. There will be some discussion about one-time money allocated for the coming year, and he said some are hoping the funding might be raised above the three-percent mark.

Because school was closed due to weather December 4, the planned bullying assembly will be held January 6.

Ruth said the staff Christmas party would be held December 13, at 4 p.m. in the commons. A ticket would be purchased for any staff member wishing to attend the Holiday Jam concert that evening. The concert is to raise money for the community center. Some money originally earmarked for a meal/party will also be donated to the Ben Christiansen family, who lost their home in a fire. The board will again donate their December meeting salary toward the Christmas party fund.

The Building Committee reported the surplus auction items at the old elementary school brought in $1,700. The school board will sign over the old school to the city with a quit-claim deed, and will help with interim cleaning and maintenance.

Regarding the request from Jerry and Lynn Johnson and Lee and Cleo Kleinsasser to purchase land from the school to the north of their residences on Donlin Street, the committee reported Pierce & Harris Engineers are working on the survey and plat, which must be approved by the Hand County Commissioners. The next step would be to offer the land at auction, by sealed bid or through a realtor.

Also discussed was the status of the wrestling room renovation. Ruth said there are materials totaling $7,900, and about $13,238 still allocated toward the project. The board felt wrestling coach Ryan Resel should bring a plan to the board for consideration, and look into plans further at the January meeting. Chairman Fremark said, “We don’t want this to be a short-term fix. I think we need to do it right.” Board members agreed the work should be a summer project, with completion by fall 2014.

Board member Jonathan Hurd represented the board at the Associated School Boards of South Dakota Delegate Assembly in late November. He said discussion items included the Common Core Standards, school funding, capital outlay flexibility, and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Hurd said an extended school year was also discussed, which might generate more funding from the Legislature. Four priority resolutions were passed, along with 31 additional resolutions.

Hurd proposed that the board hold a strategic planning retreat to discuss priorities, concerns, long-range planning, etc. Chairman Fremark supported the idea, adding that all board members need to be present. Planning will continue at the next meeting.

Superintendent Ruth presented forms for the school board and school staff, for the purpose of evaluating the superintendent. Fremark commented that Ruth is the only superintendent he knew that asked for evaluation by staff, as well as the board. Board member Natalie Bertsch stated she felt evaluation by staff was good, and allowed them to express opinions anonymously. After discussion, it was agreed to ask for evaluations by classified and certified staff for another year, and then consider how many return the evaluations.

For action items, the board approved the Miller School District’s audited financial statement for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2013. The work agreement was approved for Aaron Zeller as a special education aide, at $9.40 per hour. Fees were waived by On Hand Development Corporation for the Holiday Jam concert December 13, and for a youth wrestling tournament to be held in January.

The next regular meeting will be held Monday, Jan. 13 at the new elementary library.

In keeping with the season, two “Santa’s Helpers,” who wish to remain anonymous, added a little Christmas cheer for customers at Pump ‘N Pac last Thursday.

According to employee Sherry Moser, two people provided $10 to “pay it forward” on Pump ‘N Pac’s “Thirsty Thursday,” when coffee or fountain pop is only two cents for each ounce of a beverage.

Pay it forward is a term for describing the beneficiary of a good deed repaying it to others instead of to the original benefactor.

According to Moser, the idea took on a life of its own all day. “People would get their coffee or pop, and throw money into the pot,” she explained. “What started as $10 grew to $17 during the day, and we ended with 93 cents. Someone the next day started it all again by giving $5.”

One of the “Santas” has done the same thing before, but usually does it late at night, when not many are around the store.

Moser said the plan is to try “pay it forward” on Thursdays, until the money is gone.

“It demonstrates the generosity of our customers; people were in the holiday spirit.”

Submitted

IN THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS, the Miller Junior High WEB Leaders continued their tradition of collecting food items for the Helping Hands Food Pantry this year and were able to collect nearly 1000 non-perishable food items for children in the community. Fifth through eighth grade students at the Millerdale Colony also participated with the help of their teacher, Jill Simpson, putting the collection over the 1000-item mark. Students who donated to this cause were given coupons for extra credit to redeem in select classes. The Miller Lions Club uses these items in the making and delivery of Christmas gift baskets for needy families. Eighth grade WEB Leaders pictured, l to r, Camden Breitling, Caleb DeBoer, Kassie Schaefers, Mackalyn Fulton, Teanna Pawlowski and Steven Fernholz.

Michael Caviness|The Miller Press

Santa posed with many young children including Isabella Trollope during ‘Christmas on the Prairie’ December 5, 2013.