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FORMER BOARD MEMBERS, Mike Mentzer and LaVaughn Busse were awarded chairs imprinted with the Avera Hand County Memorial Hospital logo for their service to the board.

Mike Mentzer, Miller, and LaVaughn Busse, Highmore, were each awarded a chair imprinted with Avera Hand County Memorial Hospital’s logo upon fulfilling at least three terms as board member for the organization. Mike served from 2004 to 2013, serving as Chairperson from 2006 through 2013. LaVaughn served from 2006 to 2013. Both board members led the facility through the strengthening with Avera from a managed facility to a leased facility, through the successful capital campaign that raised over $1 million for the construction project, and through the construction project that included a new patient service wing and renovations to almost every other area of the health care facility.

The board welcomed Ray Caffee, Miller and Nick Nemec, Holabird, who accepted new terms in 2014. Ray, a lifelong resident of the St. Lawrence/Miller area, is a librarian at the Hand County Library in Miller and retired librarian at the Miller School District. His wife, Tammy, is the Miller elementary school principal.

Nick, a lifelong resident of the Holabird/Highmore area, is a farmer and former state legislator for District 23. His wife Mary Jo is a nurse practitioner, working at South Dakota Urban Indian Health in Pierre.

At the re-organization meeting, officers were elected for 2014. Carol Stobbs was elected chairperson, Pastor Brian Jones was elected vice-chair, and Jerome Schaefers was elected secretary for calendar year 2014. The board is rounded out with Connie Templeton and Michelle Turner, MD. The board serves as governance for Hand County Memorial Hospital Inc. and Advisory for Avera Hand County Memorial Hospital, recommending actions to Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center leadership.

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JANEEN and LARRY MEIER are pictured with their long-time friend, Lions president Ken Schaefer.

Larry Meier, Cresbard area farmer and former sales representative at Hand County Implement and Titan Machinery, was the guest speaker at the February Miller Lions Club meeting.

Meier told his story of becoming blind and the life changes and challenges that followed. He also praised the staff at the rehab center for the blind in Sioux Falls, where he spent three months in schooling.

The Miller Lions continue to focus on eye screenings for kids and plan to conduct a local eye screenings in the coming year.

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JANEEN and LARRY MEIER are pictured with their long-time friend, Lions president Ken Schaefer.

February 5, 1914

North Hand – We were sorry to hear of the death of Frank Kendall at a hospital in Aberdeen, when we had just been informed that he was doing well and likely to recover. The funeral took place at the Bohemian cemetery just on the edge of the west county line.

More jackrabbits are in evidence this year than for several years. Hundreds of them have been killed by the hunters and brought to town for shipment to eastern cities. E.M. Dunn has been doing the shipping of both poultry and jackrabbits, and reports one week’s business in poultry and jacks runs to $742.00.

Nate Johnson is remodeling the entrance and method of seating at the Scenic Theatre this week in accordance with the rules presented by the building inspector for fire protection.

February 6, 1964

Etaoin Shrdlu (Martha Tamblyn): I have a feeling the Zip Code is not quite the success that had been expected. Not too many people have taken the time to memorize another number, and those who have, seldom use it. Experience has also taught that the number had little to do with speeding up the mail. It was a noble experiment, but I don’t think it’s here to stay.

One of the oldest landmarks of St. Lawrence was torn down this past week. The old barn on the King farm, located on the east edge of the town, was built in the early 1880s. John M. King built it when he first came to St. Lawrence from Illinois, and the place was first called Siding No. 3, then changed to Rex (for King).

Joseph Aleru and David Awolola arrived at SBA January 6 from Nigeria. They will complete their high school education. Joseph wants to be a minister and David an educator. Eight below zero weather and seeing snow was a new experience for the boys.

January 31, 1974

Titled “Operation On Guard,” members of the Miller Army National Guard unit are starting a month-long recruiting drive during February to help bring South Dakota’s 3,400 member force up to full strength.

New hospital rates go into effect February 1. Room rates: double $36/day; private room, $48/day. Intensive Care Unit with monitor, $114/day. Nursery, $18.50/day. Emergency Room, $10 plus supplies used. Delivery room, $40. ECG, $15.

The annual St. Lawrence Firemen’s oyster supper was held Tuesday evening. Emil and Mary Klapperich were again chief cooks and each guest enjoyed a hearty meal. After supper, the firemen showed an educational film and sponsored Bingo.

February 1, 1984

Legislative Report: The “Springfield Issue,” Gov. Janklow’s proposal to convert USD-S in to a minimum security prison, has dominated much of the session and is still not resolved.

The Polo School District held an informational meeting at the Polo High School gym with Sam Tidball, executive director of the Associated School Boards of South Dakota present to discuss alternatives or options that the patrons of the school district have to operate their school in the future years of declining enrollments.

The Miller wrestling team wrestled their way to a 45-15 victory over Class A opponent Winner last Friday night. Tuesday night will be the final match of the regular season, when Miller will host Huron.

January 31, 1994

A mandatory seatbelt bill was narrowly steered through the Senate Jan. 25. Senators passed the bill 18-15, sending it to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

This past week was one of bitter cold temperatures, but by Thursday it had started to warm up and we had a very nice weekend with melting temperatures, enjoyed by all.

Miller High School’s one-act contest play entry has advanced through the regional competition and now will compete in the state festival in Pierre. This year’s show, a comedy, is “Sally Blane, World’s Greatest Girl Detective.” Outstanding performer awards went to Joy Hochkammer and Rochelle Cundy.

February 4, 2004

A significant number of Miller-area residents turned out Tuesday, Jan. 27, to talk about suicide and other tragic deaths, how these affect a community, and what can be done in the areas of prevention and crisis management.

A mobile science lab, christened “Science on the Move,” was in Miller for four days last week. Fifth and sixth grade students gained hands-on knowledge while undertaking experiments in the lab for two days. Then the lab moved to the junior/senior high school.

In what seems to be becoming a habit, the Miller boys’ team had their second overtime win, defeating the Chamberlain Cubs 82-74 in Chamberlain, Jan. 27. The Rustlers are now 11-2 on the season.

RETROSPECT

On January 13, 2014, at the Elementary Library, 7^th grader Torrey Anson won the school-level competition of the National Geographic Bee and a chance at a $50,000 college scholarship. The school-level bee, at which students answered oral questions on geography, was the first round in the 26th annual National Geographic Bee, sponsored by Google. (To learn more visit http://maps.google.com/help/maps/education/.)

The kickoff for this year’s Geography Bee was the week of November 11, with thousands of schools around the United States and in the five U.S. territories participating. Participating in the Miller School Bee were: fifth graders Kaia Heilman and Kaden Koster; sixth graders Dillan Aalbers and Noah Grogan; seventh graders Torrey Anson and Karst Hunter; eighth graders Carter Canham and Camden Breitling. The winner was Torrey Anson and the runner-up was Karst Hunter.

The school winners, including Torrey Anson, will take a written test, and up to 100 of the top scorers on that test in each state will then be eligible to compete in their state bee April 4, 2014.

The National Geographic Society will provide an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, DC, for state champions and teacher-escorts to participate in the Bee national championship rounds May 19-21, 2014. The first-place national winner will receive a $50,000 college scholarship, a lifetime membership in the Society, and a trip to the Galapagos Islands, courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic.

Award-winning journalist Soledad O’Brien will moderate the national finals on May 21. The program will air on television. Check local listings for dates and times.

Everyone can test their geography knowledge with the exciting GeoBee Challenge, an online geography quiz at www.nationalgeographic.com/geobee, which poses 10 new questions a day, or by downloading the “National Geographic GeoBee Challenge” app, with more than 1,000 questions culled from past Bees, from the App Store on iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad; from the Adroid Market, or for Nook Color.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Its mission is to inspire people to care about the planet. Founded in 1888, the Society is member supported and offers a community for members to get closer to explorers, connect with other members and help make a difference. The Society reaches more than 450 million people worldwide each month through National Geographic and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 10,000scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more info, visit www.nationalgeographic.com.

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TORREY ANSON (second from left in back row) will represent Miller at the State Geography Bee, April 4. She is pictured with fellow Miller School Geography Bee participants (back row l-r): Karst Hunter, Torrey Anson, Noah Grogan, Camden Breitling, Carter Canham; (front row l-r): Kaden Koster, Kaia Heilman, Dillan Aalbers.

expectations during national FCCLA week

The Miller FCCLA Chapter of the South Dakota association of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) will join more than 200,000 members across the nation in celebrating National FCCLA Week February 9-15, 2014. This year’s theme is “Exceeding Expectations.” During National FCCLA Week, members plan and carry out activities to address teen and societal concerns and show how Family and Consumer Sciences education can help them achieve the ultimate leadership experience.

The Miller Chapter has a variety of activities planned for the week with the profits from fundraisers being donated to charities as part of their community service program of work. The chapter members will be recognized for their hard work during the school year with locker decorations and special treats.

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), is a dynamic and effective national student organization that helps young men and women become leaders and address important personal, family, work, and societal issues through Family and Consumer Sciences education. FCCLA has over 200,000 members and over 5,500 chapters from 49 state associations, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The organization has involved more than ten million youth since its founding in 1945.

FCCLA: The Ultimate Leadership Experience is unique among youth organizations because its programs are planned and run by members. It is the only career and technical in-school student organization with the family as its central focus. Participation in national programs and chapter activities helps members become strong leaders.

Silly and serious happenings occurred at the Roost this week. More puzzles were tried, games were played (both physical and mental), books were read, and projects undertaken. Of course, like many people, the kids are anxious to “spread their wings” outdoors in warmer temps.

One day, with Duke Ellington (jazz pianist, composer, band leader) music playing in the background, it was interesting to hear them say as they entered the Roost, “What’s that?” Most Roost kids were not accustomed to hearing this type of music. Thus began the introduction to Black History Month and related books and activities.

Minty, a historical fiction book about Harriet Tubman as a young slave girl wanting freedom, was a touching story that gave insights into the days of slavery as well as telling how her father taught her skills to help her travel at night. Another selection, Christmas in the Big House, Christmas in the Quarters, provided the opportunity for interesting dialogue among the kids as they noted differences in lifestyles between plantation owners and their slaves. The kids brought to the discussion information learned at school – even mention of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. from one of the Roost’s youngest.

Wilma Unlimited is the true story of Wilma Rudolph, a black girl who contracted polio at age 4, overcame the paralysis and went on to be the first American woman to win three Olympic gold medals (100 meter race, 200 meter race and 400 meter relay) in the 1960 Olympic Games in London, England. She was dubbed “the fastest woman in the world.” With this book a discussion of the Olympics began and will be ongoing. Medals were designed by the kids as a follow-up activity.

A strictly silly book was Dyno-hockey – yup, just as the title implies – dinosaurs playing hockey. Three Hens and a Peacock was a nice story; the lesson it implied is that “the grass is not always greener…” – we each have talents that make us special and it doesn’t work well to try to be like someone else.

“Stay tuned” to see what new books will be explored and what tidbits will be learned as the kids explore into Black History Month and the Olympics.

Rustler Roost N E W S

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INTERESTS VARY as Roost kids engage in making their choices during free time at the Roost.

Hand County commissioners acted on routine business in short order at their monthly meeting February 4. J.D. Wangsness called the meeting to order at about 9:45.

Auditor Sandy Selting and commissioner Luke Wernsmann were present; Larry Rowen joined his fellow commissioners by telephone.

During the brief meeting, which lasted approximately 15 minutes, the following business was transacted:

The Register of Deeds’ Statement of Fees for December 2013 in the amount of $3,414.50 was approved.

A resolution designating the Family Crisis Center, Inc. in Redfield, as the official entity of choice to provide assistance to families in need and victims of domestic violence/sexual assault in the Hand County area, was also approved.

DeAnn Hargens presented two plat changes on behalf of Scott Ravenscroft, who was requesting a portion of land located in section 15 on the south part of town, where one half of the land is outside of the city, be annexed to the city. The other request was for platting of a lot in the northeast part of section 10 outside of the city limits.

A request was made to replat a St. Lawrence property owned by Thomas and Renae Morog as “Hammil Outlot 1 for Michael Hammill’s house.

A third request, by Sandy Selting on behalf of Matt Jones, was to plat out part of the land located across the street from the old Dakota Expedition west of Miller in Midland Township, so he can build a house. The commission approved all three plat changes.

Commissioners also voted to grant Jeff Hargens’ request to advertise for supply bids and the signing of funding agreements for road stripping.

The last order of business, before adjourning just before 10 a.m., was to grant permission for Randy Peck to attend the annual Weed and Pest Conference in Aberdeen, Feb. 18-21.

A recently formed community center committee has proposed the first draft of possible uses the former elementary school building. The committee hopes to start demolition of the classroom portion of the old school as early as March or April. Their plan then calls for the existing building, from the former music classrooms down to the title room, to be remodeled.

The entrance from the north would also be remodeled for a better flow. The area across from the gym would be made into a kitchen, built with a service window to the east to serve the gym area. There would be few, if any, changes to the existing gym, which would be able to hold 350 people for a sit down meal, wedding dances, sporting or other larger events.

Offices in the center of the building would be for On Hand personnel. Two meeting rooms are pictured here in two different formats. Both rooms could be used as a lecture hall or meeting room for community meetings and/or gatherings such as showers, holiday dinners or family reunions.

Parking would be located on the grassy spot where the high school used to be. The main entrance would be on the west side near this new parking area.

The community center committee plans to do much of the general contracting on the project, enabling them to better stay on top of the project. They would utilize local talent and contractors as much as possible during the construction phase, and hope to purchase materials for the project locally, whenever possible.

“It is the desire of the committee to provide a cost effective center for the Miller Community,” stated On Hand Director Amy Howard. Questions and comments concerning the community center may be made through the On Hand office at 605-853-3098.

The February 3, 2014 meeting of the City of Miller was called to order by Ron Blachford at 7:00pm with the pledge of allegiance. Roll call was taken and all aldermen were present. The agenda was amended and then approval of agenda as amended. The minutes of the last meeting were also approved.

Darrel Peterman was present to gather information on the sewer project. He was concerned of the 20 year pay back on the $242,000 note for the cleaning, cameraing and GSI mapping of the sewer. The council expressed their appreciation to Peterman for his questions. They explained this procedure was necessary and that the council was investigating ways to save the city money and still maintain proper sewer usage.

Mayor Blachford stated, “We need to hire a camera, as no records were kept on where the sewers are located, and we need to know the condition of the sewers, so we can plan for future repairs. “

Sidewalk cleaning was first up on the agenda. Blachford stated, “We need to handle this like the lawn mowing, set a fee and bill them.”

Blachford would like to see the time for cleaning be maintained at 15 hours for businesses but extended to 48 hours for residential to accommodate if some one was gone over a weekend. Blachford believes this snow removal, if not done by the property owner, can be done by current city employees and with current city equipment. If necessary the city could possibly hire a contractor to complete this work.

Alderwomen Hargens questioned, “How high does the fee need to be to cover the overtime that could be incurred during high snow years?” It needs to be high enough so property owners want to get it done with out city involvement, was the feeling of the council.

A motion was made by Alderman Rangel and seconded by Hargens to have, Chief of Police Shannon Speck, who was present at the meeting, look into the language needed for this ordinance, and also a noise ordinance.

At the last meeting it was discussed to have a delegation from Miller meet with the attorney to get direction on the dilapidated house ordinance. The delegation decided that a phone conference would be better. Finance Officer Coss forwarded sample letters to the attorney for his approval. Mr. Waitier, City of Miller Attorney, would like specific letter for each property owner outlining the needs of each property. It was his opinion to start with a limited amount of properties, addressing first those that pose a possible health issue. The council is also working on determining what measures will be taken if rodents, etc. are living in the home to minimize the movement of those to the neighboring houses.

The council chose four properties to start with. This was by nomination and then vote by the council. The council spent several minutes discussing different properties before finally deciding on these four. The properties chosen were kept confidential from the audience to protect the identities of the owners. A letter will now be drafted, sent to the attorney for clarification and then sent to the property owners.

Abandoned vehicles and snow removal around vehicles on the street was the next topic. Coss has located ordinances from other South Dakota communities that deal with these issues. Chief Speck will go over these and get them ready to send to the attorney. It was moved by Rangel and seconded by Odegaard.

The city will be moving forward with the DENR Loan Agreement for the sewer cleaning, cameraing and GIF mapping. They also will be starting the process on adding the surcharge to the sewer bill for the loan. The state also mandates the sewer rate be at a specific amount in order to qualify for grants and loans. These loans and grants that they are investigating would be to help with the cost of the repairs that maybe uncovered with the cleaning being done. The state mandates that the sewer rate be in the $40 range, there are some in the state that are in the $100 range. The city is trying to be proactive in the care of the sewers so this does not happen to Miller.

Coss stated, “You need to plan ahead; we will need to adjust the rate on all our services to raise the capital we need to do these capital improvement projects. We are paying too much money out in interest. We need to be proactive not reactive.”

Blachford stated, “If you do not have this money put away or on hand then you are behind the eight ball.”

Alderman Odegard made a motion, seconded my Zeller to raise sewer rates $1.65 to cover the camera project.

The council also approved a NECOG Administrative Agreement. NECOG will then handle the paperwork on the DENR loan. Alderman Odegaard stated, “this will be cheap if we have any problems with the loan.”

Alderwomen Johnson made a motion to send Jim Bonebright, Airport Superintendent to the Airport conference in Sturgis.

The council also made a motion that the next meeting be held on Tuesday February 18 at 7 p.m. due to Presidents’ Day.

Janet Kittelson | The Miller Press

SIDEWALKS LIKE THE ONE shown above are not meeting the current City ordinance, which requires snow and ice removal within 15 hours of formation. Presently, the city is addressing this issue by writing a new ordinance.

Jerod Fisher | The Miller Press

WINTER WELLNESS NIGHT concluded with three “lucky” members of the staff being pied in the face. From left: MHS Principal Steve Schumaker, Superintendant and Assistant Boys’ Basketball Coach Mike Ruth, and Assistant Boys’ Basketball Coach Will Castle.

Ellen Frances (Etbauer) Koc 1913 – 2014

Ellen Koc died peacefully at home on January 29, 2014, in Woodland Park, Colo., where she had been living for over the past two years with her son and daughter-in-law, Ed and Cheryl Koc. She was 100 years and 7 months old.

Ellen was born in south Hand County, South Dakota, on June 29, 1913, the first of seven children born to Edmund and Elizabeth (Dye) Etbauer. She attended country school there through the eighth grade, did her first year of high school at Notre Dame Academy (a Catholic boarding school in Mitchell), then completed high school in Ree Heights. After attending a year of college in Madison, Ellen got her teaching certificate, then returned to Hand County and taught two years in the rural grade school she had attended. After another year of college in Aberdeen she taught a year each at the Werdel and Connelly schools and two years in Buffalo County. By the fall of 1938 Ellen had saved enough money to enroll in South Dakota State College in Brookings, receiving her bachelor’s degree in 1940, which qualified her to teach high school. She spent the decade 1940-50 teaching in high schools in Waverly, Ravinia, Jefferson, Lemmon and Ree Heights, SD, and one year in Boardman, Oregon. She regularly taught English, typing, shorthand, and bookkeeping, and supervised library, school papers and yearbooks, declam and class plays.

On Oct. 15, 1949, Ellen married Anton (Tony) Koc, and they settled down in Miller for the next twenty years. After their three children started attending school, Ellen resumed her career, teaching in St. Lawrence, Miller and Highmore. In the 1960s she attended summer sessions at Black Hills State Teachers’ College, eventually completing a master’s degree in library science. In the summer of 1969 the family moved to Milbank, where Ellen served as the high school librarian until her retirement in 1978.

After retiring, Ellen participated in interdenominational Bible study groups, and she was especially active in the women’s quilting group at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Milbank. Their quilts were auctioned off at the bazaars, bringing in healthy sums for the benefit of the parish. Ellen always enjoyed staying in touch with a large circle of friends and extended family, and she especially loved organizing and attending family reunions.

A few months after Tony died (on Dec. 4, 1990), Ellen moved to White Bear Lake, Minn., to be near her daughter Sally and her family. For the next twenty years she lived there in a charming apartment complex for independent seniors. She became friends with many of the residents, and they enjoyed various activities and outings together. Ellen particularly loved seeing regularly the many nieces, nephews and other relatives who lived in the Twin Cities area. During these years Ellen took up genealogy and family history as a hobby, and her family is enormously grateful to her for conducting this research and for writing up the fascinating stories of the generations who came before us.

In the fall of 2011, after about a year in an assisted living facility in White Bear Lake, Ellen accepted Ed and Cheryl’s invitation to come live with them in Colorado. She loved the views of the mountains and the forests and watching deer and fox amble about the yard.

Ellen was preceded in death by her husband, Tony, and by all her siblings: Gladys DeMers, Elizabeth Hanson, John Etbauer, Marion Antonides, Loretta O’Rourke, and Laura Jankord. She is survived by her children: Sally Sailer of Vadnais Heights, Minn.; Richard Koc of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and Edmund Koc of Woodland Park, Colo.; and by her grandchildren: Katrina, Matthew, and Andrew Koc, and Max Sailer.

On Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014, a funeral service was held for Ellen at Our Lady of the Woods Church in Woodland Park, Colo., where she was a parish member and regularly attended Mass these past two years. Father Timothy L. Corbley officiated. It was Ellen’s wish that her remains be cremated.

On June 21, 2014, at 11:30 a.m., there will be a service for Ellen at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Miller, with Father Chester Murtha officiating. This will be followed by the interment of Ellen’s ashes at the GAR Cemetery, after which luncheon will be served at St. Ann’s.

Paid Obituary

Burle Christopherson 1943-2014

Burle Christopherson, 70, of Miller, died Wednesday, February 12, 2014 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.

Memorial service were Monday, February 17, 2014 at the First Baptist Church in Miller with Pastor Joseph Raleigh officiating. Burial followed in G.A.R. Cemetery, Miller.

Burle Lloyd was born December 18, 1943 to Tillman and Joyce (Anderson) Christopherson in Miller. He attended grade school at Lincoln Country School in Glendale Township and high school in Miller and Ree Heights. On January 19, 1964, he married Charlotte Moody in Ree Heights. To this union, six children were born.

Throughout his life, he worked for various Hand County farmers, at Tri-State Insulation, Boyd Hats and did some truck driving. He loved working with animals. In his spare time, he enjoyed having coffee with friends and visiting.

Survivors include his six children: LaVerne Christopherson (special friend, Wendy Olson) of Yankton; Dawn (Darwin) Engelmann of Miller; Bonita (Kelly) Artz of Eden Prairie, Minn.; Michelle (Chris) Leisy of St. Lawrence; Burle (Sandy) Christopherson of Nicollet, Minn.; and Tim (Shelby) Christopherson of Northglenn, Colo; nine grandchildren; one sister, Wava (Mike) Arth of Milnor, N.D.; one sister-in-law, Marcene Christopherson of Miller; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers: Edwin, Randy (Mary) and Noel.

Reck Funeral Home of Miller has been entrusted with Burle’s arrangements. Visit www.familyfuneralhome.net

Verlyn Schroeder 1923-2014

Verlyn Schroeder, 90, died on Saturday, February 8, 2014.

A memorial service was held on Tuesday, February 11, 2014 at George Boom Funeral Home in Sioux Falls.

Verlyn Elaine Taylor was born June 1, 1923 to Anna Mickelson Taylor and Wallace Taylor in Timber Lake, S.D. She attended rural school until second grade and then moved to Hot Springs, S.D. She graduated from high school in 1940 and from USD with a BA degree in 1944. On January 14, 1944 she married Darrel Boyd. They lived in Canton, Hot Springs, Vermillion and Sioux Falls where they raised four children. After Darrel’s death, she married Bob Schroeder, a former USD friend, of Miller. They lived there for 22 years before moving to Prince of Peace in Sioux Falls in 2008.

Her South Dakota heritage was very important. Her Mickelson grandparents were from Walworth County and the Taylor homestead was in Dewey County. As an only child, many of her Mickelson cousins became her best friends.

She was proud of USD and a loyal fan since 1940! She had uncles, aunts, cousins, children, grandchildren, and both husbands that were graduates. While at USD she was a member of Pi Beta Phi.

Verlyn worked for the Employment Security Department of SD, and was program director of the Sioux Falls YWCA for 18 years. She was a member of Governor George Mickelson’s state building authority, was involved with PEO, chapter AQ and a lifelong member of the Methodist church. After working tirelessly for the Republican Party, she was proud to say her uncle and cousin were both SD Governors.

She is survived by her husband, Bob; daughters, Judy (Bill) Wittrig of Rapid City; Lory Molseed; Sally Boyd (Tom Zupet); and son Mark (Deb) Boyd all of Sioux Falls.  She is also survived by grandchildren Jody Sperlich, Kelly (Terry) Wolthuis of Rapid City, Meredith and Madeline Molseed of Sioux Falls, along with great grandchildren Taylor and Molly Sperlich, Grant and Abby Wolthuis, and by numerous step-children, grandchildren and a new great-grandbaby. Verlyn was pleased and proud to say that she and Bob’s combined family of eight all live in South Dakota.

Verlyn was preceded in death by her first husband, Darrel Boyd, and parents, Anna and Wallace Taylor.

An online registry is available at www.georgeboom.com.

Wulf, Haiar wed

Jared Wulf and Laura Haiar, both of Sioux Falls, were wed on August 31, 2013 at Holy Spirit Parish in Sioux Falls.

Parents of the bride are Tim and Carla Haiar of Sioux Falls. Parents of the groom are Zane and Sally Wulf of Miller.

Ashley Haiar, sister of the bride, was maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Racheal Haiar, sister of the bride, and Emily Laney and Melissa Temple, friends of the bride.

Wyatt Wulf, brother of the groom was best man. The groom’s cousins, Josh and Treg Caffee and the bride’s brother, Mark Haiar were groomsmen.

The flower girl and ring bearer were the bride’s cousins, Brylee and Sutton Krier.

Ushers were Josh Krier and Eric Haiar, cousins of the bride, and cousins of the groom, Chance and Seth Caffee.

A dinner reception and dance followed the ceremony at the Ramada at Sioux Falls.

After a honeymoon to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the couple is at home in Sioux Falls, where the bride is employed at Meta-Payment Systems and the groom is employed at Poet.

The couple met while students at SDSU.

Ree Heights

Winter weather put into perspective

The weather this past week has been one that was filled with snow, wind and more snow and a warm day when the temperature got into the 30’s and it melted some of the snow that we had gotten the day before. We had about 1.5 to 3 inches one day and a couple of days later we ended up with about 5 to 6 inches more. Of course most everyone is saying that it has been a long cold winter, but we have to remember that most of the winter has been one where we would have a day or two of cold and then we would have three to five days of warm weather. It just seems like it has been a long winter but we read more into the cold days than we do the warm days that are soon forgotten when we get a cold day. We can look at the rest of the country and be thankful that we live where we do and say that our winter has not been so bad after all.

We extend sympathy to the Tong families on the loss of Rob, who passed away last Saturday and his funeral was on Wednesday with many from this area attending his funeral. The Tong’s live south of town.

Many from this area attended the benefit for the Tong family on Sunday .

Delton and Carole Beck were Sunday supper guests at the Jeff and Margie Parmely home in Miller.

Carole Beck went to Miller Saturday and helped with the Center for Independence in making and baking pies and then serving them to the residents at the Miller Manor. A large crowd attended and it was enjoyed by everyone who attended.

My five year old , Joshua, and I were at the park one afternoon and he was riding around in his little, one seated Power Wheels car that he got for Christmas. When he drove over to me with a concerned look on his face, I asked him what was wrong.  “What am I going to do with my car when I get married?” he exclaimed. “There’s nowhere for my wife to sit !!”

Nutrition Site

Served at Miller Housing sites and home delivered meals

For information, call Wheels & Meals, 853-2869

Thursday, Feb. 20

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

Friday, Feb. 21

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

Monday, Feb. 24

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

Tuesday, Feb. 25

Scalloped potatoes w/ham, green beans, bread pudding, bread/butter

Wednesday, Feb. 26

Ranchers chicken, potatoes Anna, Harvard beets, lemon fruit salad, bread/butter

Ruth A. Moller

This is another “cat tale,” so if you aren’t interested, be forewarned.

At Christmas, a dear woman gave me a book titled, “Secret Language of Cats.” I love the book, but instead of being surprised by some of the “secrets,” I simply find myself nodding in agreement. I’ve spoken Feline since I was at least four.

I don’t speak Canine as fluently, but I understand some of what they convey. As a child, I was close to various farm dogs, including my beloved Ring and Boots dogs. Jerry Dog cuddled with me when the folks were milking cows, and I adored my aunt’s terrier, Skippy.

I also was fond of the barn cats and kittens. Then when I was four, my dad brought home a little black kitten from my Aunt Mart. I wasn’t very original, so I named her Coalie. She had the privilege of staying in the basement/back porch, and sometimes was allowed into the house. She started coaching me on understanding Feline, and we had a close relationship until her death when I was 15 (I found her!).

When I was first married, we lived in Illinois for the summer. When we returned, we stopped at my husband’s sister’s place, and her daughter gave us a Siamese kitten…marked as ours because her whiskers were clipped. Had we gone to my sister’s place first, she planned to give us a poodle puppy, and history may have been changed.

Over these many years, I’ve always had at least one cat—usually more. Most have lived long, contented lives. Each one has always had a unique personality. Some were somewhat exotic, some were run-of-the-mill cats…but all were loved, and they knew it.

As soon as she was married, my daughter asked for a cat. Today, they have Egyptian-type Siamese, “Tut” and “Set,” as well as a non-descript dog, Tess.

Son Tedd has had various dogs and cats, most recently a cat, “Harley,” and a terrier-type dog named Jackson. 

I’m on pretty good speaking terms with all of them.

Son Matt was always the “rescuer,” of dogs and cats, from childhood onward.

As kids, Tedd brought home a rabbit, and Lori brought home baby squirrels, whose mother was departed. I unsuccessfully tried to bottle-feed them.

We had gerbils, hamsters and fish now and then, too, but I never mastered their languages.  

Little hurts my heart as much as the Humane Society commercials showing abandoned/mistreated cats and dogs. I can’t watch. I’ve “rescued” my share of animals, and know I can’t rescue any more at this point, but I bleed to see the unkindness humans can wreck upon God’s innocent creatures.

Today I have Callie (from a shelter), a beautiful part-Siamese; Annie (a calico rejected by her co-cat family); and Bella, a beautiful, spoiled Himalayan. We converse often. They like it when I sing (silly cats). They understand “no,” but seldom comply.

They’re happy since I’ve been home, no longer working at The Press office. They showed their displeasure when I subbed for two days. Callie—who’s never done so before—kept jumping up to the space above the cupboard (and crashed a few things down); Annie gorged on food and then purged; Bella chewed up some store receipts and stole my pens. They’ve settled down since I’m back most of the day.

They also hate it if I go out of town.

I’ve not been able to explain to them our upcoming move. They know 
“something’s up,” because of boxes, but “move” is not in their vocabulary.  I really dread that transition.

My daughter-in-law gave me a plaque, “As every cat owner knows, nobody owns a cat.”  I also have a little pillow, “Happiness is being owned by a cat.”  

True. And it’s best if we try to speak each other’s language. 

The art of cat communication

Rustler Roost
N E W S

Roost kids continued their trip back in time as they heard more stories related to Black History Month. As a follow-up to Minty, the book about Harriet Tubman and the underground railroad, the kids colored and assembled a picture book. The fun part was that each page had a flip-up picture to show someone in the unusual hiding places at the stops along the trail.

In a book about Rosa Parks the kids learned of her bravery in refusing to give up her seat on the bus and consequently being arrested. She challenged the segregation mind set of the South and made a big impact in the civil rights movement. And, in reading about Satchel Paige they learned of a great baseball player who had a strong influence on the game. Nat King Cole was heard singing rhythmic music on the CD player.

Just for fun the kids used watercolor paints on large sheets of paper. Designs, pictures, and patterns emerged as each did an individualized picture. While some chose to be very specific with their pictures and colors, other kids chose to be more random by mixing colors, letting colors run together, and doing more abstract designs.

An important arrival came in the mail this week – a check from Modern Woodmen of America for the potato supper fundraiser matching funds. They matched $500 of the net proceeds.

In the next few weeks the kids will be exploring Mardi Gras traditions and the Iditarod sled dog race. Mush!

Submitted

ROOST KIDS happily `exhibit a Modern Woodmen of America matching funds check they helped earn by helping with the preparation of potatoes, set up and serving at the fundraiser potato supper. Front row (l-r): Jolie Palmer, Jorryn Heilman, Madison Kopecky, Noah Andersen; middle row: Logan and Cora Peterson, Abby Boomsma, Olivia Flor, Mackenzie Kopecky, Jon Andersen; back row:  Journey Palmer, Taylen Grage, Callie Schlechter, Emily Gibson, Kaia Heilman, Gus Fortune, Aaron Castonguay, Kaden Koster.

Miller Police Department Logs

January 27

11:20 a.m. – Traffic Accident, North Broadway

4:15 p.m. – Welfare Check, Third Street

8:11 p.m. – Traffic Stop, Third Street

January 28

9:05 a.m. – Traffic Complaint, North Broadway

January 29

8:52 p.m. – Property Check, Third Avenue

January 30

12:05 a.m. – Motorist Assist, SD 45

9:10 a.m. – Animal Complaint, North Broadway

2:45 p.m. – Ambulance Call, Fifth Avenue

7:10 p.m. – Animal Complaint, Third Avenue

9:46 p.m. – Traffic Stop, First Avenue

January 31

1:42 a.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

8:16 a.m. – Traffic Control, North Broadway

3:33 p.m. –Traffic Stop, SD 45

3:51 p.m. – Traffic Stop, Third Street

4:00 p.m. – Traffic Stop, Third Street

February 1

2:32 p.m. – Traffic Stop, US 14

2:59 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

4:10 p.m. – Ambulance Call, Fifth Street

4:47 p.m. – Traffic Stop, US 14

5:28 p.m. – Traffic Stop, US 14

6:44 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

February 2

6:40 a.m. – Ambulance Call, North Broadway

7:06 a.m. – Ambulance Call, Fifth Street

February 4

8:25 a.m. – Traffic Stop, Third Street

12.39 p.m. – Traffic Stop, Fifth Street

5:09 p.m. – Traffic Stop, Third Avenue

February 5

7:05 a.m. – Animal Complaint, Third Avenue

8:05 a.m. – Motorist Assist, Third Avenue

February 6

7:05 a.m. –Animal Complaint, North Broadway

8:04 a.m. – Traffic Stop, Third Avenue

3:42 p.m. –Welfare Check, Sixth Street

9:51 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

February 7

3:46 p.m. – Traffic Stop, US 14

4:02 p.m. – Traffic Stop, US 14

4:54 p.m. –Traffic Stop, North Broadway

5:39 p.m. – Traffic Stop, SD 45

6:09 p.m. – Traffic Stop, First Avenue

8:18 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

8:54 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

February 8

7:45 a.m. – Alarm Call, North Broadway

1:30 p.m. –Animal Complaint, North Broadway

4:12 p.m. – Traffic Stop, SD 45

4:37 p.m. – Traffic Stop, US 14

5:09 p.m. – Traffic Stop, First Avenue

5:29 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

5:38 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

6:31 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

February 10

1:20 p.m. – Animal Complaint, Fourth Street

3:59 p.m. – Traffic Stop, US 14

February 11

12:50 a.m. – Ambulance Call, Fourth Street

11:24 p.m. – Traffic Stop, Third Street

February 12

6:41 p.m. – Motorist Assist, US 45

8:52 p.m. – Ambulance Call, 14^th Street

February 13

6:53 a.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

8:13 a.m. – Traffic Stop, Fifth Avenue

8:41 a.m. – Traffic Stop, US 45, MM 113

12:18 p.m. – Traffic Stop, SD 45

12:51 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

1:03 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

9:06 p.m. – Animal Complaint, Fifth Street

February 14

2:12 p.m. – Traffic Accident, Third Avenue

3:07 p.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

3:29 p.m. – Traffic Stop, South Broadway

7:12 p.m. – Ambulance Call, Fifth Street

February 15

9:27 a.m. – Traffic Stop, North Broadway

11:26 a.m. – Animal Complaint, Sixth Street

4:45 p.m. – Traffic Complaint, Sixth Street

File Photo
FOR TWENTY YEARS donations from hundreds of generous contributors to the Miller Area Foundation have impacted the Miller area in many ways by providing grants for various community projects such as playground equipment for the elementary school.

The gift that keeps on giving stands to give even more, thanks to the generosity of Larry Coss who has issued a challenge to the Miller Area Foundation (MAF). The challenge, according to foundation chairwoman, Dawn Joy, is to raise $100,000 by June of 2018. When we raise the $100,000, Larry Coss will match that amount, said Joy.

The challenge pledge drive is a great opportunity for people, no matter what their income level, to share their wealth to benefit the community. The MAF provides a way for everyone to contribute and any amount will be accepted. According to MAF board, no amount is too small or too large, so anyone can give. Letters will be mailed to area businesses and individuals asking for support. The pledges, memorials and other donations received will generate revenue for worthwhile projects for generations to come.

This is the third challenge pledge drive for the MAF, since it was established as a tax-exempt organization in 1994. The value of the MAF has continued to grow through donations from hundreds of generous contributors and has impacted the Miller area in many ways. Literally everyone in the Miller and the surrounding community, young and old, has benefitted from the grants disbursed through the foundation.

In 2013, the foundation gave over $20,000 back to the community in the form of grants to 13 non-profit organizations. Since 1995, when the first grants were awarded, they have given out over $300,000 to more than 90 organizations, and they do this all without ever spending a penny of the principal. Fire departments, Wheels and Meals program, senior center, Boys/Girls Scouts, 4-H, church youth groups, Back Pack Buddies, the Angel Tree…just to name a few. One hundred percent of the donations are invested within the South Dakota Community Foundation, where they stay. The amount of local awards distributed each year depends on the interest that has been earned. It’s basically a community savings account and the interest is what the MAF gives away. So of course, the more principal available for investing, the more interest can be used for community grants.

Since all the MAF workers are volunteers, there is absolutely no overhead, which means all monies contributed to the MAF stay in the community. All donations are tax deductible. Board members Dawn Joy, Dan Coss, Tiffany Hofer, Nini Hart, Sandy Werdel, Betty Jo Welch, Terry Augspurger, Rob Mullaney and Clayton Werdel all heartily encourage individuals and businesses to participate in meeting the challenge. $100,000 must be raised by the June 2018 deadline in order to be matched by Larry Coss’s $100,000 which in turn will be a $200,000 boost to the MAF funds and in turn will help increase monies back into the community.

Non-profit organizations wishing to receive a grant must apply for them. The MAF board recommends that applicants ask for the amount needed. You may not get the total amount applied for. It all depends on how many applications received. Grants are awarded four times each year.

To learn more about the foundation and to get regular updates, “Like” them on Facebook at Miller Area Community Foundation.

Contact any board member or visit www.milller.sdcommunityfoundation.org to make a donation or to apply for a foundation grant. Grant application deadlines for the 2014 grants are March 10, June 10, September 9, and December 9.