Harry V. Ellis, III, 73, of Rockham, S.D., died Friday, Dec. 27, 2013 at his home.

His funeral was held Monday, Dec. 30, 2013 at the United Methodist Church in Miller, S.D. with the Rev. Mark Johnsen officiating. Burial was in the Rockham Cemetery with military rites.

Visit www.thelenfuneralhome.com.

Harry was born September 2, 1940 in Flandreau, S.D. to Harry Jr. and Madonna (Faris) Ellis. He attended Washington High School in Sioux Falls, S.D. After high school, he served in the United States Navy.

Harry married Sharon King and they had three children. He drove truck for All American and Midwest Coast Trucking for twenty years. He then worked for Service Master and Shields Cleaning until 1995, when he moved to Rockham.

He married Shar Whitehorn and they lived northwest of Rockham. Harry worked for the Miranda Elevator/Dakota Air and South Dakota Wheat Growers in St. Lawrence until his death.

Harry was an avid gun collector and enjoyed hunting deer and pheasant, and fishing.

He is survived by his wife Shar of Rockham; three sons, Michael Ellis of Sioux Falls, and his children, Michael and Tori; Steven (Lorie Helgeson) Ellis of Chester, S.D. and his children, Andrew and Jordan; and LaRon (Stephanie) Ellis of Sioux Falls, and his son Aaron; and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Tom.

Harry V. Ellis III 1940-2013

Jerod Fisher|The Miller Press
FRESHMAN KALLIE RUHNKE (#24) drives toward the basket through traffic during the home opener vs. Northwestern on December 21.

The Miller Lady Rustlers fought a close game with Northwestern, Saturday December 21, 2013. The lead for the Rustlers at the half was just a mere two points. Miller kept up the pressure extending that lead to seven at the end of the third quarter. Northwestern amped up the pressure during the fourth quarter and shrunk the lead to just three points at the final buzzer, for a final score of 71-68.

Jamie Mentzer led the scoring with 30 points, going eight for ten at the line, Kristen Peterka was a close second with 20 points and 15 for 8 at the line.

Shooting percentage were very evenly matched, Miller to Northwestern were three pointers 25% to 24%, two pointers 44% to 53%, and total scoring percentages 43% for both.

Rebounding for the Lady Rustlers was also Mentzer and Peterka each with seven. Total rebound were 32 and Northwestern with 33.

Turn overs and steals for the teams were also close with 25 for Miller and 24 for Northwestern and steals were two for Miller but none for Northwestern.

Lady Rustler Annie Fulton fought hard , but fouled out during the game.

Junior varsity for the Rustlers also won their game 30-23. Kallie Ruhnke scored 16 of the points for the Rustlers.

Rebounding was led by Shae Knox and Ruhnke with six rebounds.

Jerod Fisher|The Miller Press
FRESHMAN SHALY WERDEL (#22) moves up court while shielding a defender during the girls’ home opener.

Polo-Orient

POLO CCD STUDENTS’ CHRISTMAS

Polo junior and senior high students gathered for supper in Mary’s Room before helping get the Nativity items to the church and preparing their plates with the goodies they made. Sharing their Christmas Spirit and 24 Christmas treat plates for the December 18 delivery to parishioners on the annual deliveries, was a “joy-filled” gift for everyone. Making the drive around the St. Liborius parish countryside were Nathan Kolda; John, Denae, Ellen and Grace Schlechter; Cody and Bailey Martinmaas; Kassie Schaefers; Sadie and Becky Jo Berg; and teachers Joe, Chris and JoAnn Schaefers.

GRADE SCHOOL

St. Liborius Grade CCD presented their Christmas program, “The Christmas Story,” after 7:30 p.m. Mass Saturday, Dec. 21, narrated by Jaimi Lammers. Joseph and Mary (Lily Schaefers and Shelbie Berg) were turned away by the inn keeper (Paton Coyle) before they were given a place in the barn. Coming to visit them were the angels, Patricia Lammers, Madeline Saienga, Charley Nuhsbaumer and the shepherds, Braxton Brueggeman and Landon Coyle. CCD teachers include, Barb Kolda, Sue Lammers, Joyce Wieseler and Amy Nuhsbaumer. Christmas carols led by the choir and organ highlighted the segments of the program. Lunch was served in Mary’s Room following the play.

Christmas Eve masses in our Polo and Orient Catholic Churches brought large crowds to celebrate the “reason for the season—Jesus’ birth.” Christmas Eve and Christmas Day found many families together around the Christmas tree and the table. Many family news items, however, are being made at deadline time or will be happening the weekend between Christmas and New Year’s, making Christmas reporting an “on-going” series.

KC BLOOD DRIVE

The KC’s will have their regular blood drive on Friday, Jan. 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon at the Polo School. Contact Louie Arens, blood drive chairman at 392-2521 to schedule your appointments.

The KCs will be having their monthly meeting at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 2 in Mary’s Room. Grand Knight Jerome Schaefers will conduct the meeting and Louie Arens will provide lunch.

Vic and Marion Martinmaas, Rodey Martinmaas and Donna Schaefers were dinner guests in the Linda Leddy home in Sioux Falls recently. Stopping by for a visit with Grandpa Vic and Grandma Marion were Paul and Jennel Brueggeman, Ian and Graham and Amy Douglas and Erica of Sioux Falls, and Dan, Liza and Halley Brueggeman of Inwood, Iowa. The Vic Martinmaas’ visited in the Alvie and Cindy Martinmaas home earlier in December.

Kristi Lammers came from Sioux Falls for the weekend and to enjoy the Christmas festivities with her family. Getting together on Christmas Eve Day were Ken and Sue Lammers and Kristi, and Brady and Jaimi Lammers, Patricia, James and Jacob.

Christmas Day, Ken and Sue and Kristi were guests of Dan and Lori Lammers and Emily and Libby Lammers and Ken Jones.

The Monday before Christmas, Dec. 23, Jack and JoAnn Schaefers drove to Huron for an early Christmas with the Doug and Darla Schaefers family, Danielle and Scott Phillips, Kiera, Keeghan, and Beau, Desirae and Sam McPhee, St. Paul, Minn., and Danae Schaefers, Milwaukee, Wis. Derek Schaefers was busy at the movie theater and was unable to come while they were there and Dixie Schaefers and Dustin Vanderward were coming Tuesday

Christmas Day, the Schaefers enjoyed Christmas dinner with Aunt Irene Cordts, at the Faulkton Healthcare. Rosalia Schmidt also ate with them. An extra sweet touch to the meal’s dessert was going from table to table to share Christmas greetings with the upbeat residents and staff and cooks who spent their Christmas Day doing for others. The Christmas spirit being shared by several centurians like Irene, adds even more wonder and awe to the season for all generations.

In the afternoon, the Schaefers visited at the Jeff and Carole Stoecker farm for Christmas with their family, Jeremy and Chantel and Aubrey, Tolstoy; Darin from Brookings; and Marissa Badger from Sioux Falls. Matt and Chelsea and CJ were unable to come from Sioux Falls until later.

Milo and Deb Kolda, Sturgis, were home for the Christmas holidays with Lucille Kolda and family. Christmas Eve at Grandma Lucille’s was special for Milo and Deb, Erv and Tena and Nathan, Leon and Barb, Tyler and Heather, Drew, Kristen and Jackson, Larry and Leonda Anglin, Miller, and Fran and Mike Anglin.

Christmas Day supper guests at Lucille Kolda’s were Diana and Dave Runge and Becca, Shane and friend Kayla Brett, and Karen, Gavin, Dominic and Lucas, all of Wessington; Milo and Deb Kolda, Sturgis; Dean and Rema Kolda, Macey and Morgan, and Lee and Shanna Kolda and Coby, all of Miller; Tyler and friend Heather, Highmore; Blake Kolda and Braden, Pierre; and from Polo, Leon and Barb Kolda, Drew, Kristen and Jackson, Erv and Tena Kolda, Nathan, Natalee and friend, Riley Ruhnke, Miller.

Patrick and Emily Schaefers, Jenna and Holly and Casey and Lisa Aalbers, Wessington, were home for Christmas Eve day with Jerome and Tammie Schaefers

JOLLY WRENS MEET

The Jolly Wrens held their monthly meeting at the Cabernet room on Wednesday, Dec. 4, with 10 members present for dinner followed by the meeting. We welcomed our new member, Sharon Huss, and made out the hostesses for the new year. We lost our care center friend and Jean Struss will be our new care center friend. 

The post office tree is up. Appreciation to Delilah Cotton, who furnished the tree and decorations and did a great job decorating it. Marlene had a Christmas reading and a game after the meeting to make the Christmas meeting special and fun for all. 

The next meeting will be hosted by Jan Martinmaas and will be at JB’s in Faulkton for noon dinner on January 8. Seasons Greetings to everyone from the Jolly Wrens.

2013 Christmas column CHAPTER TWO NEXT WEEK. What better way to end this year’s columns than with a plea for your notes, emails (jschpolo@venturecomm.net) or calls for our friends and family away to read about everyone’s activities during the Christmas Season. Reminiscing is all part of the holidays thus we are including some memories.

Looking back forty years

We find life today must be normal–it was as busy then as it is now. Some attention-getting headlines from the December 20, 1973 weeklies—from a filed copy of the Pierre paper were: “Dome Extends Voting on Dakota.” The Student Senate extended voting time on the proposed Dakota Dome at USD from November 26 to January 8.

“Santa Claus Phone Cut Off.” In Pontiac, Mich., Bell Telephone Co. has cut off one of its newest and most popular customers, Santa Claus.

“Rocking Horse Business Good,” Article from Chicago said, “What is there to say about an old man who makes rocking horses?  Nik Klein, 78, speaks little English. He’s been carving rocking horses for more than 20 years, even before he came to the United States from Stuttgart. Germany in 1952. He makes them in various sizes–pintos, black and white, brown and white, a chestnut that could seat a man. Prices? $40 to $400.”

“Water Sours Stew, Husband Sues City.” The person was suing the city to repay for his two pounds of stew meat, vegetables, rice, two hours’ labor and five per cent interest for the time elapsed since he first submitted the bill to the city water department. The claim was the water tasted like disinfectant and ruined the family supper. The City decided Monday to contest Burns’ claim for $19.44, saying, “the city water was and still is wholesome.”

POLO December 20, 1973, my Polo column 40 years ago had these items:

The firemen held their meeting last Monday night  It was reported that the building material had been shipped but has not arrived yet. Duane Foerster won the jackpot and Tom Schaefers’ name was drawn to help with lunch next month.

The KCs met in the dining room Monday night. Plans were made to hold the annual oyster stew supper, Sunday, Jan. 13. Grand Knight Gene Vanorny stated there would be a meeting in Miller Sunday for District Deputies and Grand Knights.  Clarence Froning won the jackpot and was assisted by Leo Schaefers preparing lunch.

Mr. and Mrs. Pete Schaefers of Mobridge and Mr. and Mrs. Tom Schaefers and boys were guests in the Harry Schaefers home a week ago Sunday.

Mr. and Mrs. Larry Venjohn, New Hope, Minn., are the proud parents of a baby daughter, Lisa Marie born December 13. Her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Venjohn left Thursday to stay with her brother Troy and sister Tracy.

Mr. and Mrs. Gene Brueggeman are the proud parents of a baby daughter born December 13 in the Miller hospital. She has a sister Marjean and brother Damon at home.

The first loss for the Polo Bears BB team came Friday night when they met the Stephan Chieftains in the Polo Gym. The A game score was Stephan 67 and Polo 45.  The B Team score was Stephan 49–Polo 27.

The PHS Drill Team will be performing at half time. Mike Mikuska’s name was omitted last week. He is helping with the drill team.

Friday visitors in the John Schaefers home in Miller were Mr. and Mrs. Ewald Miessner of Rapid City and Mr. and Mrs. Jack Schaefers and Colleen, who had returned from MMC with Mrs. Ernest Suhn and Kathy of Ree Heights. Due to the fuel shortage, Mount Marty College students Colleen and Kathy’s Christmas vacation has been extended until mid-January.

Mr. and Mrs. Miessner were on their way to Brookings to attend graduation exercises for their grandson, Sherman Miessner and were overnight guests with Mrs. Jennie Miessner.

Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. Ed Martinmaas were Mr. and Mrs. Ray Olson and Mr. and Mrs. Gary Olson of Gann Valley, Mr. and Mrs. Roger Dean and girls and Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Dean of Miller, and Mr. and Mrs. Heine Venjohn and Joe.

Sunday evening the Polo High School chorus presented a very nice Christmas program. The chorus is directed by Sr. Charles Palm. Refreshments were served by the junior class.

Santa arrived after the program with bags of goodies for the youngsters (and even some not so young). Somehow a visit from Santa is thrill beyond words for those “lil folks” and it is equally enjoyable to be on the sidelines watching their reactions.

A birthday party was held in the Leo Foerster home to observe Leo’s 80th birthday, which was Monday. Those present were Mr. and Mrs. Charles Markley, Highmore; Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Bucher, Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Wermers, Mrs. Mary Martinmaas, Mr. and Mrs. Duane Foerster, Tim and Tom.

Mrs. Vivian Meyer hosted a birthday party in her home in Aberdeen in honor of Joe Martinmaas’ birthday, which was Friday, and Don Keelin’s birthday, which was Monday. Mrs. Liz Martinmaas, Miss Jan Curtis and Mrs. Keelin and family were also present.

NEWS submitted from ORIENT forty years ago

Mrs. John Cook entertained a group of friends at a Christmas party Thursday afternoon. Entertainment was reading a Christmas story or poem brought by each guest. There was an exchange of gifts drawn by number. The hostess then served a Christmas lunch. The guests included Mrs. Viola Johnson, Mrs. Edith Schirber, Miss Dorothy McKay, Mrs. Gladys Engel, Mrs. Cleo Leafgreen, Mrs. Colin McKay, Mrs. Nora Buechler, Mrs. Ted Anderson, Mrs. Mary Volek. The rest of the afternoon was spent visiting. It was a nice afternoon get-together.

Mrs. Nora Buechler and John Hoffman were supper guests in the John Cook home.

The Orient Sunday school and the Orient ALCW had their Christmas program Sunday evening. The Ruth Circle of the ALCW served home made ice cream, cookies and coffee in the basement following the program.

Mr. and Mrs. Ed Hargens and Mrs. Ted Anderson were Redfield shoppers on Friday.

Mr. and Mrs. Loren Morris were Sunday afternoon visitors in the Ted Anderson home and Sunday evening visitors in the Scott Soyland home.

Pvt. Donald Shanholt, who is in the Marines in San Diego, Calif., arrived in Aberdeen Sunday evening and was met by Randy Morris and Scott Soyland. He is on leave until after the holidays.

Rick Soyland left for his home in Rapid City Monday morning, where he will accompany his mother to Hampton, Va., to visit in the Gary Soyland home over the  holidays.

John Hoffman and Nora Buechler were Miller visitors Tuesday. Dorothy McKay was a Faulkton visitor Tuesday.

Hilda Nissen returned home Sunday evening after spending Friday and Saturday in the Alvin Nissen  home while they went to Vermillion.

Mr. and Mrs. Rueben Remsburg, of Winthrop, Wash., arrived at the Lloyd Engle home Thursday evening. They were en route home to Washington after attending the funeral of Mrs. Remsburg’s mother in Kansas. They left for their home Tuesday.

Mrs. Florence Moad and Marjorie Ekse visited Saturday afternoon in the Cleo Leafgreen home. Mrs. David Benard visited Dorothy McKay Friday.

Mr. and Mrs. Albert Sprague of Miranda were dinner guests in the Lawrence Davis home Sunday. The Davis’ were Sunday evening visitors in the John Wiedeman home. The occasion was Mrs.Wiedeman’s birthday.

The Lawrence Davis family spent the December 8 weekend at the Kirk Davis  home at Sioux City. En route home they visited at the Howard Davis home at Hartford. They also visited at the John Davis home in Dell Rapids and the Clarence Sprague home at Farmer.

Word was received here that Cecil (Gooder) Gilbert of Clinton, Illinois passed away.

The teachers and students in the Orient school had a vacation Monday due to furnace problems.

That column also included a one-column letter from Frank and Margaret Swope, from their winter home in the Rio Grande Valley, and their winter home in Oleander acres in the southern tip of Texas. She talked about attending a vegetable show and after the show you fill your big brown paper sack with all the vegetables you want. She said, “We didn’t attend the sale but they say it is like a wild rummage sale.” Also quoting, “Of all things, people buy, ‘dandelion greens.’ It is a cultivated crop and we would guess the tops to be about 20” inches long.”

Christmas is—special events and special guests

Plaza News

Plaza residents enjoy the holiday season

Several residents have asked me to write some “ happenings” from the Plaza, so I will do my best.

A potluck dinner will be held Saturday, Jan. 4, in the Plaza dining room at noon.

Mike and Nancy Barondeau of Roscoe S.D. came to visit her dad, George Mogle,on Saturday, Dec. 21. They spent the day visiting and had an early Christmas.

Dorothy Fawcett spent several days at the farm with her family, arriving home again on Christmas night.

Minerva Jacobs went to her son Gary and Julie Jacobs’ farm home near Wolsey on Monday, Dec. 23. Some of Julie’s family was also present for the festivities on Christmas day. Gary brought Minerva home Wednesday evening.

Bernita Voelker had guests Thursday, when David and Dianne Langrebe from Bemidji, Minn. came to visit. Other visitors were her daughter, Jody and Jerry Kusser, and Rod and Laurie Schneller of Canton, S.D.

Lois Christiansen spent Christmas Eve at the home of her son, Don Pugh. Also attending were Jay’s two grandsons and their families, and Rod and Kathie Gortmaker and their family. On Christmas day, Lois went to Don and Jay’s farm again. The Gortmakers were also guests for Christmas dinner. A game of Dominos was played in the afternoon. Lois talked to her daughter in Texas on Christmas morning.

Marene Pratt-Pietz rode with Dave and Nancy Pratt to the home of Robin and Mel Dutt at Howard, S.D. on Christmas forenoon, where the rest of Marene’s family was gathered for dinner, visiting and gifts.

Rachel Ann Clement and Nickolas William Kreger exchanged marriage vows at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Miller on Saturday, June 29, 2013. They share the June 29^th marriage anniversary with Rachel’s parents, grandparents and great-grandparents. Father Chester Murtha officiated.

Parents of the bride are Jeff and Renee Clement, St. Lawrence, and parents of the groom are the late Laverne and Mary Kreger, Clear Lake. Honored guests were Roger and Ludelle Prouty, Hayti, grandparents of the bride, and Mary Burckhard and Theresa Ellis, Towner, N.D., grandmothers of the groom.

Escorted by her father, the bride was attended by Amber Clement, maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Vanessa Fischer, Kelli Van Vuuren, Sarah Coup, Ashley Koskovich and Sara Schwartz. Emilia Schwartz, Eleanor Lickteig and Sara Kreger were flower girls.

Jason Park served as best man. Groomsmen were Kyle Strating, Nate Streckfuss, Kyle Peep, Pat Uckert and Kevin Myrmoe. Ushers were Kyle Clement, Levi Kreger and Derek Jaeger.

Music for the ceremony was provided by Stacey Kreger, Aaron and Kelli Van Vuuren and Cleo Kleinsasser, organist. Readers were Lorinda Haman and Joseph Prouty. At the guest book were Meggie and Molly Dillon.

Following the ceremony, a dinner and dance was held at the Crossroads in Huron. Hostesses were Denise Fletcher, Cindy Prouty and Marcia Prouty.

The bride is a 2006 graduate of Miller and a 2010 graduate of South Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She is employed as a registered nurse at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.

The groom is a 2004 graduate of Clear Lake and a 2008 graduate of South Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in business economics. He is employed as a sales representative with Interstate Batteries in Sioux Falls.

Following a honeymoon to Jamaica, the couple is at home in Crooks, S.D.

Submitted
TIA PAWLOWSKI received an individual bronze award in the Ag Broadcasting/Journalism event.

The South Dakota FFA Association hosted 512 FFA members from across South Dakota at the 2013 State FFA Leadership Career Development Events, held on December 8-9 in Pierre. These FFA members advanced to the state level competition by placing first or second at their district competitions.

At the State Leadership Career Development Events, members and chapters were recognized for their success in 11 leadership areas. Winning teams and individuals advance to compete in their Career Development Event areas at the National FFA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky next fall. Paul Dybedahl, 2011-2012 State FFA President, addressed FFA members at the awards luncheon Monday afternoon.

Ag Sales team members work together to develop a strategy for selling pre-determined products to specific customer scenarios. Participants also practice their individual sales skills by selling an agricultural product to a customer. This event is sponsored by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture. The winning travel scholarship is sponsored by Eastern Farmers Cooperative. The national level sponsor is Monsanto. Tate Ketelhut, Miller, placed first, and received the Gold Award.

In Ag Broadcasting/Journalism, students have 30 minutes to prepare a five-minute agricultural radio newscast and then “air” it. This event is sponsored by Ludens Implement. Tia Pawlowski, Miller, received an eighth-place Bronze Award.

In Ag Communications, teams of students play the role of communications consultants to develop and present a media plan for an assigned scenario. This event is sponsored by the South Dakota Broadcasters Association. The winning travel scholarship is sponsored by Dakota Farm talk. The national level sponsor is Osborn Barr.

The Miller team of Ashley Bertsch, Kendra Krosch and Hiedi Hoftiezer received a fifth-place Bronze Award.

In Marketing Plan, teams of students determine a local community need and create a complete strategy for marketing a new agricultural product or company to fill that need. The sponsor is Legend Seeds, Inc., and the state winning team travel scholarship is sponsored by Hurley and Associates. The national level sponsors are Bunge North America and Kerry Ingredients and Flavours. The Miller team placed sixth, with team members being Clayton Keck, Allison Hasart and Shae Knox.

Submitted
THE MILLER MARKETING PLAN team placed sixth. Team members were, l to r, Allison Hasart, Shae Knox and Clayton Keck.

Submitted
THE AG COMMUNICATIONS TEAM from Miller placed fifth, and received a Bronze Award. Team members, l to r, were Hiedi Hoftiezer, Ashley Bertsch and Kendra Krosch.

Submitted

HELPING HANDS was the winner of the “Best Dressed Window” traveling trophy for the Miller Civic and Commerce annual event Christmas on the Prairie held Thursday, December 5. The window was voted the “Best Dressed” by the Christmas on the Prairie Committee. Pictured, front, is Shar Ruhnke with the Miller Civic and Commerce, Rebecca Ortmeier with Helping Hands, DeAnn Beckett with the Christmas on the Prairie committee, and, back, Gina and Mike Ortmeier with Helping Hands.

(Editor’s note : The following letter is from Lars Engebretsen, who was an exchange student to Miller in 1966, and who lived with the Alvie and Eva Nissen family. It was forwarded to the Press by Shelly Nissen, who felt folks might enjoy the letter.

Among other titles, Engebretsen, MD PhD, is professor and chair of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Oslo University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo.)

Christmas is soon here and sitting on an airplane from New Zealand on my return flight to Oslo, made me think of 1966 and the Christmas holidays in Miller, SD. This year has brought me to India, Brazil, Harvard, Oxford, the US 9 times and many other places, and sitting on three airplanes for 25 hours one can let the thoughts fly. Becoming 65 next July, it is a good time to sum up this first part of life.

December 1966 was a cold month in Miller. Not much snow as I recall, but brisk mornings in the glorious South Dakota sun. On a school day I would be sitting early in the morning by the furnace in the Nissen living room studying for Christmas tests. No one was up, but by 0630 I would be joined by Vicki, always a keen student and always with the best report cards. Mrs. Moncur’s English language test could be hard enough and Mr. Schroeder’s government exams did not lend itself to laziness, if something bad happened in class you were called by the morning announcement to visit the principal Mr. Jordeth’s office. By 0730, Al was up, Rick still sleeping in the shower whereto he had had to move when I moved in to his room in August of ‘66. Shelly and Lori still sound asleep. Quick cereal breakfast and Eva would drive us the four blocks to school.

Miller High: 400 students and on the verge of breaking through as an athletic powerhouse caused by the Nissen brothers and their friends. When I arrived in August ‘66 via MS Seven Seas, 10 days across the pond, via Greyhound bus to Minneapolis (there was an airline strike going on) and finally by plane to Pierre, football practice was about to begin and I was immediately included. Imagine doing a collision sport in 90 degrees Fahrenheit with a helmet on for a Norwegian used to soccer, and a seriously colder climate. After a few days, Mr. Matheson detected that I actually could kick the ball and from then on the fall just ran away! Life became busy and the activity level in the Nissen household was high! Studying in the Nissen living room a week before Christmas made me a little homesick for the first time that fall. Christmas is the big holiday in Norway where families gather and enjoy life. Since I arrived in August, I had had a few letters from home, no phone calls or e-mails, Facebook, Twitter etc. Remember, Vicki, we actually had to write real letters in 1966. So I wrote my family and friends letters that they would probably receive months later.

Christmas ‘66 was, as I recall it, full of excitement! Church, parties (yes there were some beers) and SNOW! Yes it actually snowed and Alvie would drag us around town on various sledges. Almost like home. School was out, sports were on TV and life was good! Except Sunday mornings when we had to attend the Methodist Church Sunday School and service, where Vicki would play the organ and the services took forever. Before you knew it, Christmas was over and reality checked in as well as serious sports. Al was the star of Miller BB on the verge of breaking through to fame (that would happen a year later), Rich and Chuck as aggressive guards and Gary as a top wrestler—at least that is how I recall it. And Vicki, Shelly and Lori—no sports for girls! Only cheerleading—that was difficult to understand for a Scandinavian!

I realize now, almost 50 years later, that those twelve months were probably the best parts of my life. Uncomplicated, pure play and fun!

After all these years, I am still around, in good shape, a granddad with Nora, one year, in New York. I feel that I have gone a full circle with Britt around almost all this time, and Truls and Jonas giving us a full life! To all my friends in and from Miller: Happy Holidays and enjoy the new year!

Janet Kittelson|The Miller Press

PATSY LeGRAND AND MARITA COYLE, Ace Hardware employees, show the 125th statehood flag featuring the State’s official commemorative 125th anniversary logo. The flags are available for purchase at Ace Hardware in Miller. A royalty from each sale is paid to the fund established to support State quasquicentennial events and activities. To learn more about South Dakota’s 125 year history and what events are happening in conjunction with the 125th anniversary celebration, visit the website at www.125.sd.gov.

Donald Melius 1938-2014

Donald Wilson Melius, 75 of Faulkton, died at home with family on New Year’s morning, January 1st, 2013. He had just spent the holidays with all of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral services were Sunday, January 5, 2014 at the United Church of Faulkton with Pastor Bill Hoffman officiating.

Don was born on October 22, 1938 to Royal and Holly (Pritchard) Melius in Faulk County, SD. He was a graduate of Faulkton High School and worked with his father on the family farm. He served in the army from 1961 to 1963 and then returned to farming. His three sons joined him in his passion for farming and ranching, working side by side through good times and bad.

Don enjoyed his retirement years doing what he loved most …riding horses, farming part-time, hunting and spending time with his grand kids.

He is survived by his sons Dan (Susan) of Miranda, S. Dak., Mitch of North Platte, Neb., and Matt (Sara) of Minnetrista, Minn.; twelve grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and his siblings Sally (Bob) Dambacher and Jim (Ellen) Melius.

He was a true cowboy and a favorite of his grandchildren: David, Heidi, Ty, Jake (Dan/Susan); Jessica, Emilee (Mitch); and Jamie, Spencer, Siara, Emma, Isabella, Lila (Matt/Sara) and great grandchildren Darin, Memphys, and Hayli (David/Janet) and Case (Heidi/Josh).

Don was preceded in death by his parents.

Luce Funeral Home of Faulkton has been entrusted with Donald’s arrangements. (www.familyfuneralhome.net)

Plaza News

A couple items left over from Christmas were: Abbie Hill spent Christmas day with the Steven Woockman family in Huron.  

Flossie McMurtry spent Christmas at Pukwana at the Lantz home with -daughter-in laws family. This weekend she went to Faith with a daughter, to visit her son and their children who were all home for the holidays.

Several residents attended the funeral services for Faith Higgins on Thursday forenoon. Faith was a long-time resident here at the Miller Plaza, and will be missed.

Nutrition Site

Thursday, Jan. 9

Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, dessert bar, bread/butter

Friday, Jan. 10

Cheddar baked fish, au gratin potatoes, peas, applesauce gelatin, bread/butter

Monday, Jan. 13

Cheeseburger soup, saltine crackers, peaches, celery sticks, breadstick

Tuesday, Jan. 14

Chicken teryiaki w/rice, Asian vegetables, ice cream w/fortune cookie, bread/butter

Wednesday, Jan. 15

Beef stroganoff w/noodles, green beans, apple rings, bread/butter

Good Samaritan Society, Miller

Residents Bring in New Year

Pleasant Valley Church was in charge of our December 29 Sunday worship service. Several members from their congregation participated in the service. Sharon Stewart read 1 John 1:1-7 Scripture and told about a Czech Republic custom of using “Christingles” to celebrate Jesus as the “Light of the World.” A Christingle is “an orange, representing the world, with a candle placed in the top of it to symbolize Christ the light of the world. A red ribbon encircles the orange, symbolizing the blood of Jesus. Four toothpicks with dried fruits are placed through the ribbon into the sides of the orange, representing the fruits of the earth.”

Bonnie Morgan sang a solo of “O Come All Ye Faithful.” She was accompanied on piano by Marla McGeorge.

Phyllis Yearous gave a reading about Mary’s account of the birth of Jesus.

Monica, Tony, Dominic and Julia Kalacinski gave a skit about “Shoes for Christmas” in which a young boy gave up his new boots to a needy girl.

Jack Ufen read “One Solitary Life” by George Clarke Peck.

Marla McGeorge sang “Mary Did You Know?” and accompanied herself on piano.

Ramona Ufen gave a reading (“Go Forth”) about the shepherds. She used scripture from Luke 2:20.

Sharon Stewart sang a silly song (“My Favorite Things”) from the book, “You’re Old, I’m Old—Get Used to It!” by Virginia Ironside.

Pastor Glenn Stewart gave a message (“Christmas Promise”) in which he reminded us that “through faith in Jesus we have a new body in heaven. The pain and problems will be gone.”

Bingo games were played Monday afternoon. Helpers were Mary Haeffner, Karen and Orville Kleinsasser, Maylou Oakley and Janice Wilbur.

Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Hammer led Monday evening led Monday evening Hymn Sing. Jesse led the singing, accompanied by Darlene on piano and accordion. The two also sang two duets: “Here I Am to Worship” and “Happy New Year to Ya”.

Father Chester Murtha, St. Ann’s Catholic Church, celebrated Mass Tuesday morning.

A New Year’s Eve party was held Tuesday afternoon.

Several residents went out and some had family or friends in on New Year’s Day, Wednesday.

Special New Year’s treats were provided by Katie Parmely, Gayle Scheid and Barb Weyand Wednesday afternoon.

Small Group participants used “Rory’s Story Cubes” to write a story about Hawaii Thursday morning.

Residents took a New Year’s Quiz and did a “Trail Making Activity” on paper Thursday afternoon.

Board games were played Thursday evening.

Ladies coffee was served Friday morning.

Balloon Bop was played Friday afternoon, followed by social time.

“To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the world.” -Brandi Snyder

Friendship Center

Gentlemen serve the ladies pizza

WE LOVE THE NEW HEAT!  It is so nice! This week has been a quiet one, all though there were card players in on each day–even New years day. Glad there was those that wanted something to do.

On December 30 all the pool players got together and treated all the daily hostesses to a “pizza party”!  The ladies were served by the gentlemen, and we weren’t even allowed to throw our own plates in the trash containers! NICE! And the ladies appreciated every moment too.

Pool players on the above Monday were George Mogle, Charles Schock, Jesse Hammer, Jim DeGeest, Bob Slunecka, Joe Oligmueller, Harlan Meier, Duane Robinson and George Melber. 

January 3 pool players were George Mogle, Joe Oligmueller, Jim DeGeest, Jesse Hammer, Bob Slunecka and Duane Robinson.

The January potluck dinner is planned for January 16 at noon, when we will be serving turkey gravy and biscuits. You should bring only salads or desserts. NO HOT DISHES!  Mark your calendars for this event!!

Exercises are getting back on schedule for each Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

January 1, 1914

As the Christmas chimes were ringing Wednesday evening, the spirit of Lucian B. Case departed its earthly casket, and took its flight to the Maker. He died at the home of his son, H.H. Case, in eastern Hand County. He was born at Windsor, Conn., April 14, 1833, and had passed his four-score years when death claimed him.

The vice president of the Milwaukee Road has issued an order that no more intoxicating liquors can be sold on dining and buffet cars operating on the Milwaukee Road in South Dakota. This is brought about by the efforts of the anti-saloon league of Mitchell.

Orient has an ice rink. It affords a very healthy and beneficial amusement for young folks, and the old folks must not blame the young folks for seeking out their own amusement.

December 26, 1963

The city was without electric power for a three-hour period Saturday morning, and was a major concern for residents whose heating systems depend on electricity for operation. The temperature hit a low of minus 21 and reached a very chilly high of minus four.

The Miller Rustlers, playing hosts to the Big Four holiday basketball tournament here Friday, slipped past Wessington Springs 57-52 in the opening and topped Redfield 65-51 in the finals to win the championship crown.

The Rev. Dale J. Hardes, O.M.I., son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Hardes of St. Liborius Church in Polo, was ordained to the priesthood in the Roman Catholic Church at Bay St. Louis, Miss.

December 27, 1973

One good thing has come out of the energy crisis. With no outdoor Christmas lighting and yard decorations, those who usually got their jollies from snitching the bulbs and decorations, have had to look elsewhere for their fun.

At Melhoff’s Super Valu, “Ringing in the Savings.” Lettuce, 19¢/head; red delicious apples, 3 lbs., 69¢; center cut ham roast, $1.19/lb.

Deb Carr has a leading role in “The Philanthropist,” a production of the University of South Dakota Theatre. This is one of four plays to be presented at the North Central Regional Festival at Mankato State College.

December 29, 1983

Probably the coldest December and Christmas day in the history of the county or in anyone’s memory went into the history books this past week. Hand County and the state were in the grip of sub-zero readings for 11 nights and eight days before the mercury climbed above the zero mark.

An open house honoring Leo Foerster on his 90^th birthday was held at Joe’s Ponderosa, Polo. Leo and his wife, Mayme, will observe their 62^nd wedding anniversary January 3.

The Tinkerbelle Extension Club met at the home of Rita Beaner. The Christmas potluck salad luncheon was held and small gifts were exchanged. Gaylia Johnson gave the lesson on making a macramé plant hanger, and everyone completed a plant hanger.

December 27, 1993

Charlie Wilber talked about his success with a “feed and seed” business. “We opened the doors on August 26, 1950, and never looked back.”

After 23 years, Vivian Hammill retired from the Miller Press, and the Press held an open house in her honor. She joined the Press Jan. 4, 1971. A highlight was “going from lead to offset in 1972. We ran the last paper here so I brought my kids down to watch the press work, but they were more interested in watching Bob set linotype.”

Teresa Muhs, senior center for the Miller Rustlers, was named to the Class A All-State first team. Shawn Danburg, senior guard, was selected to the all-state second team for the second year in a row.

December 31, 2003

Well, the other shoe dropped last Tuesday and Mad Cow Disease was found on U.S. soil. Of course, the markets took a hit and the news media jumped on the news with both feet. It is pretty sad when 10,000 people can be killed in Iran in an earthquake, and 10+ in mudslides in California, and still the BIG news is Mad Cow Disease.

An early morning fire Dec. 24 did considerable damage to the Randy Danburg home. No one was in the house at the time the fire was discovered.

At the activation ceremony for the National Guards in Redfield Dec. 19, Gov. Mike Rounds received special thanks from the children of Staff Sergeant Dean Simons. The children wrote letters to the Governor thanking him for making the request that Guardsmen could wait until after Christmas to depart for duty.

RETROSPECT

Ree Heights

Weather brings variety to area

The weather these past few weeks have been a variety of cold, wind, snow and very nice weather. We have had some of the best weather that we can expect for this time of year. Christmas turned our to be pretty nice and the New ear was cold and snowy but for this time of year it is to be expected. We have had many snowy days and the last couple of days we have had the wind, very strong and wind warnings out for the day and night. Hope that everyone had a Happy New Year. The snow has been adding up but we had a warm day yesterday and I had a person say to me that he was surprised at how much of the snow melted then.

Congratulations to Dylan and Cindy Deuter on the birth of their daughter on December 20.

Delton and Carole Beck were Christmas Eve supper guests and spent the night at the Jeff and Margie Parmely home in Miller, and were Christmas day visitors there.

Delton and Carole Beck were Saturday dinner guests at the Jeff and Margie Parmely home in Miller. Others there were Allen and Holly Schaefers, Clear Lake, Jared, Laura, Noah, Jonah and Lydia Beck, Huron. Allen and Holly Schaefers, Clear Lake; and Delton and Carole Beck were overnight guests at the Parmely home. This was their Christmas.

As the Jared Beck family was leaving for home, someone said that Jonah’s cap was pretty neat and they liked it. Jonah, five years old, said that it was his uncle’s that had passed away several years ago.

Lydia, two years old, speaks up and says’ “I have not met him yet.”

Jonah responded by saying that “Maybe, in about 98 years, you will probably meet him.”

THE GREAT SEAL of South Dakota was devised by a committee of the Constitutional Convention of 1885, and approved when South Dakota’s constitution was ratified on Oct. 1, 1899. Within the circle of the seal are representations of commerce, industry and natural resources.

The great seal of South Dakota does more than authenticate official documents.

It serves as a symbol of life in South Dakota.

Within the circle of the great seal of South Dakota are representations of commerce, industry and natural resources.

South Dakota became a state on Nov. 2, 1889. A look back at the history of the state’s emblems and symbols is a fitting way to commemorate the 125^th anniversary of South Dakota’s statehood.

The history of the great seal goes back to the days of Dakota Territory. As constitutions were drawn and steps toward statehood were taken, the description of official seals to authenticate official documents had to be addressed. Committees were created at constitutional conventions for that purpose.

State historian Doane Robinson, in his Encyclopedia of South Dakota, stated, “The great seal of South Dakota was devised by a committee of the Constitutional Convention of 1885, of which Dr. Joseph Ward was chairman and the device and motto are his suggestion.”

Ward came to Yankton in 1868. He was the first minister called to the first Congregational Church established in Dakota Territory. In addition to being a religious leader, Ward was a leader in many civic and educational enterprises and in the movement for statehood. He was a member of constitutional conventions in 1883 and 1885.

Ward and his committee offered a description of the state seal at the 1885 constitutional convention. With a few changes, such as changing the word Dakota to “State of South Dakota” and adding the actual year of statehood, this description was approved when South Dakota’s constitution was ratified on Oct. 1, 1899.

The state seal as described in the South Dakota Constitution, article 21, is: “The design of the great seal of South Dakota shall be as follows: A circle within which shall appear in the left foreground a smelting furnace and other features of mining work. In the left background a range of hills. In the right foreground a farmer at his plow. In the right background a herd of cattle and a field of corn. Between the two parts thus described shall appear a river bearing a steamboat. Properly divided between the upper and lower edges of the circle shall appear the legend, ‘Under God the People Rule’ which shall be the motto of the state of South Dakota. Exterior to this circle and within a circumscribed circle shall appear, in the upper part, the words, ‘State of South Dakota,’ in the lower part the words, ‘Great Seal,’ and the date in Arabic numerals of the year in which the state shall be admitted to the union.”

Thus, the smelting furnace represents the mining industry. The plowman and the field of corn symbolize farming, and the cattle feeding on the plain portray ranching and dairying, all representing agriculture. The trees indicate lumbering. The sky and hills represent the Black Hills and the state’s scenic beauty. The steamboat stands for transportation and commerce, and the river is the Missouri River that winds through the state.

The state Legislature authorized Richard Cropp of Mitchell to design an official colored reproduction of the great seal in 1961, and it is stored in the South Dakota State Historical Society –State Archives at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. In 1986, Gov. Bill Janklow commissioned John Moisan of Fort Pierre to create a painted version of the state seal. Current color reproductions are based on this version of the state seal.

The secretary of state is designated by law as the “keeper of the seal.” Anyone who wishes to use the state seal in publications or other purposes has to ask for and receive permission from the secretary of state’s office in order to do so. This protects the image of the state seal and ensures its tasteful and respectful use.

Instead of the seal being an embossed image, a foil seal is now placed on documents filed with the secretary of state’s office. About 30,000 documents a year receive the foil seal.

South Dakotans do not need to look at official documents to see the great seal. The state seal, and all that it symbolizes, is incorporated into the design of the state flag.

This moment in South Dakota history is provided by the South Dakota Historical Society Foundation, the nonprofit fundraising partner of the South Dakota State Historical Society. Find us on the web at www.sdhsf.org. Contact us at info@sdhsf.org to submit a story idea.

Save time, go online! You can complete the health history questionnaire online before you donate blood. This has to be done on the day you donate.

Simply go to www.UnitedBloodServices.org/HealthHistory.hmtl. Be sure to print the Fast Track Donation Ticket and bring it with you to the drive at Trinity Lutheran Church, Miller, on January 9 from 1 – 7 p.m. or January 10 from 8 – 1 p.m.

Call JoDean Joy at 853-3704 if you have questions. On the days of the drive you can reach her at Trinity Lutheran Church at 853-2446.

Submitted

SON KURT JOY instigated making the “blood donor quilt” for his mother, JoDean, and the quilt includes 20 different blood donor shirts. Some past shirts were supplied by United Blood Services. Pictured with the quilt are blood donors from left back: Kurt Joy, Colette (Joy) Manning, Brooke Joy, Megan Link, Stacey Joy, Martin Swan, Michael Link, Keith Joy; (front row) Kay Joy Barge, Kathy (Joy) Link, JoDean Joy, Vernon Joy.

The Miller AAU Wrestling team will host a tournament this Sunday. Pictured are, from back left: Coach Dale Resel, Landon Wagner, Gavin Cain, Owen Fritzsche, Dillan Aalbers, Bradley Hunter, Jaden Anderberg, Corey Resel, Maverick Nelson, Carl Moser, and Coach Mick Resel. Middle, from l: Logan Peterson, Paton Coyle, Marshall Conkey, Mathis Resel, Davon Rombough, Kellan Hurd, McCade Nelson, Chase Hurd. Front, from l: Justin Evans, Braxton Cain, Talan Heezen, Oliver Fritzsche, Hudson Cain, Landon Coyle, Patrick Nelson, and Colby Sivertsen. Not pictured are Cole McKinstry, Noah Johnson, Trevor Werdel, and Tyler Hartman.

The annual AAU Wrestling tournament in Miller will be Sunday, Jan. 12 at the armory. The date changed this year to coincide with the high school tournament taking place on Saturday in town.

Approximately 130 AAU wrestlers plus support staff, family, friends, fans and spectators participate in an average tournament. The AAU Regional tournament was held in Miller in 2012. Andy Canham, club member, stated, “ It was estimated that over 2,000 people attended, and someone told me it was the fullest they had ever seen the armory.”

AAU wrestling has been a part of Miller Athletics since 1977. The first AAU Wrestling Club was started by Kenny Werdel, Dale Resel and Bob Taylor, all former wrestlers. AAU Wrestling is run and coached by volunteers and is completely separate from high school wrestling. Wrestlers may compete from newborn to sixth grade without restriction. After sixth grade, wrestlers must wait to compete until after their high school season ends. AAU wrestling does not have a season, as tournaments, camps, etc. happen year round.

The philosophy of “Sports for All, Forever” is shared by over 500,000 participants and over 50,000 volunteers nationally. The districts’ annually license more than 34 sports programs, 250 national championships, over 30,000 age division events, and over 15,000 local, regional and national competitions.

AAU sponsors the AAU Junior Olympic Games, the AAU James E. Sullivan Memorial Award along with the AAU Complete Athlete Program. Two of the AAU’s flagship programs, which are administered for the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports are the President’s Challenge and the Presidential Sports Award.

Established in 1888, the AAU is one of the largest, non-profit, volunteer, sports organizations in the United States and is dedicated exclusively to the promotion and development of amateur sports.

Today the AAU continues to operate on the basic principles by maintaining the mutual interests of its members while achieving and improving amateur sports.

The AAU has partnered with Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) to become the first national sports organization to require all its coaches to obtain PCA Double-Goal Coach® training and certification. PCA will provide training at no cost.

Some of the benefits to participation in AAU athletics is an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of former AAU athletes: Mark Spitz, Shaquille O’Neal, Keri Struggs, Chamique Holdsclaw, Greg Louganis, Ryan Klesko, Julianne Hough, Jackie Joyner Kersee, and many others.

The Miller club pays for the wrestlers’ membership fee to AAU, uniforms and fees to enter the tournaments. Membership in AAU includes insurance coverage, ability to participate at the world famous ESPN Wide World of Sports, travel, make new friends, and continue education.

The wrestling clubs’ fireworks stand fundraiser every July 4th is the source for these funds. Dale Resel, one of the club’s founders, states that “the club is more like a family, when there are things to be done all join forces to help get the job done.”

There are camps all over the state, thoughout the year. “The club also helps with some of the fees to these camps as well”, says club member Andy Canham. AAU is an organization long recognized for its position in amateur sports. The Miller Club started the season with 31 wrestlers, but as it is still early in the tournament schedule so it is not too late to start.