• NEW YEAR'S EVE DANCE PARTY at the Odebolt Community Center - Enjoy a Midnight Champagne Salute to the New Year and dance to the OCC's Dj playing music of the 70's, 80's, 90's and today.  Party Favors and Free Popcorn - $1.00 cover charge.  Tuesday, December 31st, 7:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
• The American Legion Roose Post #313 - has posted a listing of veterans from WWI, WWII, the Korean War and Vietnam on the Veteran's Memorial page.  Please check to see if your veteran is listed.

The Chronicle, Volume 111, Number 52, December 26, 2002

The Mayor Sez…
     The community information marquee on the United Bank of Iowa corner is a very vital asset to our community. It is a great reminder of upcoming events. Thanks a "zil" to Dick & Kay Bloyer for this much appreciated community service!
     Don't know whether you had Christmas ham, turkey or goose, but I hope you all had a Merry Christmas and happy holidays.
I think the following story would be appropriate for the holiday season.
     There are really only 4 stages of life. 1st Stage - you BELIEVE in Santa Claus. 2nd Stage - you DON'T BELIEVE in Santa Claus. 3rd Stage - you ARE Santa Claus. 4th and final stage - you LOOK like Santa Claus.
     It goes without saying, this author knows what stage he is in.
     May you all have a Happy New Year and I'll see you in 2003.
- R. J. Rex, Mayor

Virus Forces Withdrawal of Blood Inventory; Donors Needed - Siouxland Community Blood Bank will lose 50 percent of its frozen stock due to a nationwide effort to reduce the risk of West Nile virus being passed through transfusions, according to Janette Twait, Executive director. Blood banks across the country are withdrawing fresh frozen plasma - the liquid part of blood, and cryoprecipitate, a clotting factor. Most donated blood - the red blood cells and platelets - is used right away. The withdrawal applies to supplies collected from July 21 through November 4, 2002. The Blood bank will need donors for about 450 additional units for the holiday season, and to replenish their supply. The Blood Bank will be in Odebolt at St. Martin's Catholic Church on Tuesday, January 14, between 2 and 6 p.m.

Bake Sale a Success - If you didn't have a chance for holiday baking, the P.E.O. Bake Sale was the place to be. The P.E.O. put on a scrumptious bake sale at the Christmas Concert held on Monday, December 16th. Monies raised from this event will go toward the playground fund.

King selects main District Office - Steve King has announced that Storm Lake will be the site of his main district office with satellite offices in Sioux City, Council Bluffs and Creston. King, elected to represent Iowa's 5th District in the US Congress, also named David Ehler of Holstein as the director of the Storm Lake office. Ehler has been Holstein's city clerk for 28 years.

Special Election for State Senate Seat - Governor Vilsack called for a Special Election to fill the vacant seat in District 26 of the Iowa Senate, which will be held January 14, 2003. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. at all regular polling places on the 14th. The auditor's office in the Sac County Courthouse will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2003, for absentee voting. Absentee ballots being returned by mail must be postmarked no later than January 13, 2003, and delivered to the auditor's office by 1 p.m. on January 16, 2003, to be considered in the total votes counted. Absentee ballots will not be available until January 3, and more practically, January 6th or 7th, since December 31. 2002, is the last date to file nomination papers with the Secretary of State.

Deaths: 
Bettin, Leland, age 82, died Sunday, December 15, 2002 at Twilight Acres, Wall Lake. Born October 27, 1920 in Sac County, son of Fredrick and Christena (Schwarz) Bettin. Attended rural Sac County schools; worked at West Central Iowa Sheltered Workshop in Denison from 1969 to retirement. Survived by two sisters, Dorothy and Donna; & five brothers, Vern, Roy, Richard, Paul, and Ronald. Preceded in death by his parents and brother Kenneth.

Milestones - Jerry and Wanda Carrier will celebrate their 63rd Wedding Anniversary on Saturday, January 4.

The Chronicle, Volume 111, Number 51, December 19, 2002

The Mayor Sez . . .
     Don’t know how many people know this, but there is really some extraordinary talent in Odebolt. Ray Leege, his son Steve, and Patrick Oxendale entertained the Sac County Municipal League of Cities royally last week; Odebolt was the host city. Kudos to the community center folks that created the wonderful Christmas decorations and music (Steve B., Lance G., Howard and Marcia H., and whoever else had a part in the above). Without our community center we could not have hosted the affair. Also, thanks to: Elaine Rex and Joyce Flink for the lovely table decorations and decorated candy canes; our City Clerk Joan for organizing a good mixer game, door prizes, and keeping the records in order; and United Bank of Iowa and First Federal for the pens and note pads that all received. All was greatly appreciated; it made a gay and festive affair and was enjoyed by all.
     May I take this opportunity to wish all a very "Merry Christmas" from our city employees, the City Council, and myself.
R. J. Rex, Mayor of Odebolt
P.S. And, yes, all good little girls and boys---in case of fog---Santa will find Odebolt due to the Christmas lighting display on Hanson Blvd. (Attaway, Denny and Malinda!)

All I Want for Christmas - On Saturday, December 7th area children visited Santa at Heart & Home to sit on his lap and tell him what they wanted for Christmas.  With the cooperative weather, many also enjoyed horse and buggy rides provided by Wilckes of Battle Creek.  This annual event was sponsored by the Odebolt Chamber of Commerce.

Christmas Closings - Many local businesses will be closing early for Christmas Eve and will be closed Christmas Day.  Plan ahead and call to check on their hours.

511 for Iowa Winter Road Conditions - Travelers may call 511 free from any telephone in Iowa to find out winter road conditions, construction detours and other travel information.  It is not necessary to dial anything but 511.  Travelers outside of Iowa may call 1-800-288-1047 for road reports, or check on the Internet at http://www.iowaroadconditions.org/ for road conditions and numbers to call in surrounding states.

Abbie Grote advances to Punt Pass and Kick Championships - Abbie Grote, a 6th grader at O-A Middle School and daughter of Dennis and Jill Grote of Odebolt, competed in the NFL Gatorade P, P&K competitions in Odebolt, placing first.  She then advanced to the sectional championship in Sloan and won first place for her age group.  She has qualified to advance to the Saturday, December 21st at the Minnesota Vikings NFL Gatorade Punt, Pass & Kick Team Championships.

Business Briefs - See the Business Directory for contact information

• Sac County Mutual Telephone is offering free installation of any custom calling feature in the month of December, as well as no fee for Internet Dial-up Activation.  Also the DEADLINE for updates or changes in the Odebolt and Arthur 2003 Directory is January 3, 2003. 

• Caroll's Kitchen will be closed for cleaning from December 25 and will reopen January 2 at 6 a.m.

• Terry's Pump N' Pack has an opening for full & part time Cashier and Deli help

• The Chronicle - Renew your subscription or give a gift subscription for Christmas!  Order your 2003 calendars, daily planners and office supplies before the New Year!  UPS shipping is available at the Odebolt Office.  Have packages there by 11 a.m. for same day shipping.

• Odebolt Nursing and Rehab Center - has openings for Activity Coordinator, RN or LPN -  801 S Des Moines Street, 712-668-4867

• The Alumni Club is now open Mondays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m, as well as regular weekly hours. They will no longer be having Sunday Brunch.

• Heart and Home - Stop in for last minute Christmas gifts - order a Christmas bouquet or poinsettia for your loved ones! 
  

Other News of Interest

Chamber of Commerce briefs from the December meeting

• Everything went well at Heart & Home's Open House where Santa heard lots of wish lists from the kids and they had fun with the horse and buggy rides.  

• Judging for the Holiday Lighting Contest took place on Tuesday, December 17; watch The Chronicle for the winners.  

• Melissa Pierce & Dr. Mark Ford were elected as Directors for the 2003 year. Thanks to Dick Bloyer for all his years of service.  

• Election of officers will be at the January 10th meeting.  

• Donations of items are needed for Odebolt Welcome Baskets, which Renee Babcock will be handing out to new residents, and can be dropped off at First Federal.  Any items such as pens, magnets, etc. that have business advertising would be appreciated.  

• We are considering purchasing a used pancake grill to be housed at the Community Center.  

• Don't forget Odebolt Chamber Dollars as gifts for Christmas!  

• A free Soup Supper for all current and prospective Chamber members will be held at the Annual Meeting in January.  Dues for 2003 will again be $25.00. Come join us!  Odebolt Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 574, Odebolt, IA 51458.  Remember, we meet the second Thursday of each month.  Visit our web page!

Odebolt School Board Meeting - The Odebolt-Arthur School Board discussed a proposal submitted by the Sac County superintendents for county-wide whole-grade sharing in which each district would maintain its own pre-kindergarten through fifth grade elementary schools, Schaller-Crestland and O-A would be the sites of the 6-7-8 middle schools, and Sac and WLVA would be the sites for the high schools.  Also discussed were future closing of the Arthur school building.  

O-A Basketball - Odebolt-Arthur won a pair of Maple Valley Conference basketball games against BC-IG in Odebolt Friday.  The two teams will square off again Jan. 7 in Ida Grove in a non-conference showdown.  

The Chronicle, Volume 111, Number 50, December 12, 2002

The Mayor Sez . . .
     An update on the Vision Iowa grant application for our community center; key happenings are as follows:
     1. Odebolt City Council and Sac County Board of Supervisors approve required funding support.
     2. Mike Olerich and his OCC committee meet the deadline on the grant application forms to the SETD.
     3. The SETD (Sac Co. Econ. Dev.) approves by unanimous vote necessary funding (under Executive Director Shirley Phillips'  tutoring and guidance)
     A big thanks to all of the people involved in making this grant application happen. These include the Odebolt Community Center Board, the Odebolt City Council, Sac County Board of Supervisors, Sac County Economic Development Board (SETD), Shirley Phillips, and Sheryl Bonosil from Region VII. Special recognition to Howard Hustedt for his extremely successful fundraising efforts.
Now the "sweating it out" begins. The Vision Iowa Board will review our application and act on it by March 2003.
     Citizens, former citizens, Odeboltians, wherever you are, and friends of Odebolt - above all could not have happened without your financial support. Keep the money coming, as we still need additional money to finish the project.
- R.J. Rex, Mayor

Schools Meet to Discuss Future of Education - Sac, Odebolt-Arthur, Wall Lake View Auburn, and Schaller-Crestland school boards, superintendents and principals met December 3rd.  The superintendents from the schools have been meeting and talking together for several months about future planning.
     Bill Garner of the Area Education Agency presented information on school financing based on the state's expected funding over the next few years.  Starting in 2004 the state's budget guarantee to schools will start going down.  Schools will have to make hard decisions about their future, including reorganization and sharing resources.
     The state is offering incentives for reorganization and regionalization and several studies have been done with various local school districts looking at options available to them.  State funding is based on the number of students served, and with declining enrollment at area schools, the funding issues will be a priority.  Upcoming teacher shortages due to retirements and overcoming "territorial" thinking of schools and area residents are also concerns for the future.
     More joint discussions will be held with meetings planned to take place at the various schools, so the boards can view the school facilities available in the county.  The next joint meeting is planned for February 3 at 6:30 p.m. in the Odebolt-Arthur High School.

Fire Department Called out Twice - The Odebolt Fire Department was called to a residence 1/8 mile south of Odebolt about 6:30 p.m. on December 6th and continued to fight flames until 1:30 a.m. The fire re-ignited and the department was called back to the scene at 3:30 a.m., finishing at nearly 5:30 a.m. The cause has been undetermined by the fire marshal. The house, owned by Duane Ziegmann of Odebolt, and occupied by Micael Stevens, was declared a total loss.

O-A Ministerial Association Meeting was held at Trinity Lutheran on December 4. It was decided that the Thanksgiving Eve Service offering be deposited in the Ministerial Association treasury for later use, perhaps to help pay for renovation and updating of the church signs on the four roads entering Odebolt. The Rev. Charles Bulger is scheduled to be speaker at the high school graduation ceremonies in 2003 and the Odebolt Methodist Church will host the Fellowship Banquet to be held in February 2003. Those present were The Rev. Charles Bulger, The Rev. Al Milligan, the Rev. Al Buelow, and Mr. Kevin Sich.

Deaths:
McFarland, Henrietta (Nutzman), age 80, of Odebolt, passed away at Twilight Acres Nursing Home, Wall Lake, IA on Friday, November 29, 2002 after a battle with cancer. Born September 19, 1922 in a farm house in Levey Township, daughter of William and Ann (Podewils) Nutzman; attended Levey #4 country school; graduated from Wall Lake High School, 1940; married Sept. 10, 1961 to Tillman H. McFarland; worked as bookkeeper and secretary, and at Odebolt Cafe for over 12 years. Survived by two daughters, Naomi and Miriam, 2 grandsons, a great-granddaughter, three stepsons, seven step grandchildren and step great-grandchildren.

The Chronicle, Volume 111, Number 49, December 5, 2002

The Mayor Sez . . .
     Has anyone noticed the ODEBOLT sign at the Hwy. 175 east entry to town?  Kudos to the Tuesday Club gals (Verna Mae, Thelma and Elaine) for the Christmas lights and decorations.  Any organization that is looking for a community project could do the sign from the south entry or light the sign from the west entry.
     Chuck Hanson is taking pictures of all the business owners.  He is not going to "shoot you", just take your picture.  Give him a few moments of your time.  Thanks!
 - R.J. Rex, Mayor

Hustedt Wins Award - Howard E. Hustedt, of Odebolt, a Prudential Financial, Inc. retiree, received a Prudential Community Champions Rising Star Award of $250 for the Odebolt Community Center, Inc.  Prudential is recognizing 853 employees and retirees who excel in volunteer commitment, leadership and service in their communities.  Hustedt donated an average of 30 hours per month to the Community Center in 2001 and led the organization's fund-raising efforts as well as delegating volunteer duties.  The Odebolt Community Center provides a central location for all types of community functions.

Veterans Memorial Update - The planned Veteran's Memorial Monument, to be placed in the Odebolt Cemetery, will be constructed of granite and will have engraved the names of all Odebolt area veterans who served their country during the 20th century.  The project will not be started until all of the funds are raised ($39,000).  The Legion is asking for your contribution to make this memorial become a reality.  All donations are tax deductible and an appropriate plaque will be given to anyone giving $1,000 or more.  See the Veteran's Memorial page for a listing of veterans to  make sure your veteran is on the list.

Holiday Lighting Contest will be held Tuesday evening, December 17.  Lights should be turned on at 6:00 p.m. when the judging will begin.  Prizes will be given by the Odebolt Chamber of Commerce.

Winter Concert, December 16 - The O-A Elementary and High School students are working to present one of the best winter concerts of all time!  It will be Monday, December 16th at 7 p.m.  The 4th and 5th elementary children's choir will perform "Elves Work Out" and "Christmas is Coming and We are Getting Fat!", two fun pieces they are excited to share.  K-2 students will share their presentation of "A Place in the Christmas Choir" which solves the problem of Happy the Hound Dog's horrible singing in the Christmas Choir.  The program also features the debut performance of the 5th grade band under the direction of Barbara Votrobeck, the high school chorus, "Santa's Rockin' Christmas Count-down" by a special group of high school students, and popular numbers from the high school band.  Take time out from the hustle and bustle and enjoy a night of entertainment in the Bartley Ogden Gym!

Sports Honors - Senior Mark Currie was named by the Iowa Prep Report as a pre-season basketball First Team All-Stater.  Last season Currie averaged 15.7 points and 5.5 rebounds as he was named to the All-Maple Valley Conference First Team.
     Senior football defensive standouts Klint Schulte and Brian Fertig were named to the Iowa Newspaper Association All-State team with honorable mention recognition.
     The November 20 issue of The Predicament, a newspaper of Iowa wrestling, lists sophomore Joel Andersen and senior Brian Fertig as top-ten grapplers in their respective weight classes in 1-A.  Anderson is ranks fourth at 112-pounds.  Fertig was ranked tenth at 215.

Deaths:
Clara (Veit) Mitchell, age 74, of Odebolt, died Monday, November 25, 2002 at her daughter's home in Scottsdale, AZ.  Services held November 30, 2002 at St. Martin's Catholic Church in Odebolt; burial at St. martin's Catholic Cemetery, Odebolt.  Clara Marie (Veit) Mitchell was born may 5, 1928 in Milford, Iowa, one of twelve children born to John and Susan (Smith) Veit; graduated from Odebolt High School; married Richard T. "Dick" Mitchell October 8, 1949 at St. Martin's Catholic Church in Odebolt.  Survivors include two children, Patricia and John.

Other News of Interest

• New on odebolt.net!  The Odebolt Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring  a Business Spotlight page to showcase the businesses in Odebolt.

The Chronicle, Volume 111, Number 48, November 28, 2002

The Mayor Sez . . .
     As advertised...for those of you who read my column last week, for life-threatening emergencies call 911; for all other emergency concerns call 668-2221.  The number will get you the county communication center at Sac County Courthouse and an immediate response, no matter what the emergency may be.
     Remember when I was advising that Thanksgiving was just a few weeks away?  Well, it's here!  Happy Thanksgiving!  Now then, everyone get ready for Christmas 'cause it's only 4 weeks away.
     Congrats to Larry Schulte for receiving the Rotary Club's coveted Community Asset Award - well deserved!
 - R. J. Rex, Mayor

Letters to Santa! - The Chronicle invites children to write letters to Santa and have them published in The Chronicle.  We will then forward the letters to Santa at the North Pole.  Send your letters to our office at Odebolt (P.O. Box 485) or to our email address (see our ad at the bottom of this page) by Friday, December 13.

OCC Christmas Tour of Homes - Anyone interested in opening your home for the Christmas Tour of Homes sponsored by the Odebolt Community Center, please contact Pam Porter or Cheryl McFarland by Wednesday, December 4.

Odebolt Nursing and Rehab News - The article "Volunteer Members Called to the ONRC Auxiliary", by Mary Jeanne Thompson, which was  published in The Chronicle, was circulated for reading.  It listed the many articles the auxiliary has purchased throughout the years. The new Activity Director, Rose Schultz, was welcomed and Zena Olerich was complimented for the impressive Memorial Service.  Christmas activities include a tour of Christmas lights for the residents, Christmas Open House December 15 from 2 to 4 p.m., Christmas Carolers at 7 p.m. December 17 and the staff/resident party December 18.  The New Year's Eve Party will be on December 31.  The staff CPR training is now completed.

Bloodmobile  - The American Red Cross Bloodmobile was in Odebolt on November 11 at the Odebolt Community Center.  The 42 unit goal was met with the collection of 47 good units from 53 people.  Recognition went to donors Dixie Johnson, Dennis Grote, Chuck Foy, Linda Siebrecht, LaVon Houk and Dan Stickrod for the number of gallons they have donated.

Library Friends News - New officers elected at the October 14th meeting are:  Bev Einspahr, President, Donna Morse, Vice President, Donna Ekstrom, Secretary, and Mary Jeanne Thompson, Treasurer.  The following is a list of activities by the Library Friends of Odebolt since 1984.  Sponsored:  Brown bag programs, book sales, bake sales, gourmet dinner, pancake meals, Creek Days Float, Centennial Quilt.  Worked: Dusting shelves, mending books, volunteered Wednesday evenings, reading program parties and judged pumpkin contests.  Bought:  VCR/TV stand, three chairs for computer tables, refrigerator and range for kitchen in the meeting room, stepstool, two ceiling fans in the meeting room, coffeemaker in kitchen and bottled drinking water and cups.  Sold:  t-shirts, book bags, note cards and cookie, tea and hot chocolate mixes.  The Library Friends welcomes new members - there are no dues!  

Odebolt Ambulance Needs YOU! - We desperately need EMTs, Nurses, CNAs and First Responders or anyone wishing to help our community.  We are looking for individuals interested in taking an EMT B course.  The course starts Monday, December 2, 2002 in Denison.  For further information please call 668-4835, 668-2790, or 668-2895/2814.  Thank you!
 -  Kay Bloyer, Tonya Dupre and Deb Flink.

OTHER NEWS 

Legion Auxiliary News - The Odebolt Legion Auxiliary held a coffee to honor all Veterans on Sunday, November 10. Donations were received for the Veterans Memorial totaling $204.00. 
     In other news, homemade cookies were individually bagged and tied with a ribbon and a poppy and distributed to all the O-A faculty and staff, honoring them for National Education Week.
    We are encouraging all Junior girls to apply for an opportunity to attend Girl’s State.  They must submit an essay on the topic “How 9-11 has changed my thinking about our country and our government”.  Deadline is January 10.  See the high school guidance counselor for details.
 - Ruth Neville, President of Roose Post #313 Auxiliary

The Chronicle, Volume 111, Number 47, November 21, 2002

The Mayor Sez..
     The city clerk and myself recently attended Congressman Latham's North Iowa Community Conference.  The subject of Homeland Security was the top item on the agenda.  We were privileged to have Ellen Gordon of the Iowa Dept. of Homeland Defense and James Bogner, special agent in charge of the FBI Omaha Field Office, enlighten us on present and future planning of homeland defense.  We both came home with a good feeling that Odebolt's First Responders are quite well in place (police, firemen, hazmat*, and medical).  I can't tell you in words how important these First Responders are to our safety and aid in case of emergency.  Many of the First Responders are volunteers (firemen and medical) and many of us take these people for granted.  Take time when you see one of these highly trained volunteers to thank them for their services.
     I am conducting a mini-survey.  Do you know who to call in case of an extreme emergency?  Do you know who to call if it is not an extreme emergency?  The answer will be given next week.  If you want them before then, contact City Hall.
 - R. J. Rex, Mayor  (* hazardous material responders, located in designated areas around the state and are on 24 hour alert)

Thanksgiving Services - An Ecumenical Thanksgiving Eve Service will be hald at First Presbyterian Church in Odebolt starting at 7:30 p.m.   A Thanksgiving Eve Service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Chruch at 7:00 p.m.

Thanksgiving meal at ONRC -  If you are home alone this Thanksgiving, come and join us at Odebolt Nursing & Rehab in Odebolt for an old-fashioned, family-style Thanksgiving feast with all the trimmings.  Call us no later than noon on November 22nd at 66804867.

Search for District 26 State Senator Seat - Local Democrats and Republicans are gearing up to find a replacement for Senator Steve King (R) who will have to resign his seat in order to accept his election to the United States House of Representatives.  The Sac County Republican Party nominating committee will meet on Tuesday, November 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the Sac High School auditorium to begin their search for a replacement.  The Sac County Democrats are planning to meet with the Buena Vista and Carroll County Democrats to determine if they have a candidate for the senate seat.  No date has yet been set.

Who's Who? - Dr. Esther Streed, daughter of George Streed of Odebolt and Elnora Streed of Sac City, is included in the 7th edition of "Who's Who Among American Teachers," 2002.  Esther is an Assistant Professor of Education at Central College in Pella, teaches summer graduate courses in special education for Drake University and continues her lifetime commitment as a volunteer advocate on behalf of persons with disabilities and their families. Charise Carstensen, of Odebolt, a student at Simpson College, was recently named into the 2003 edition of Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.  She was chosen based on her academic achievements, services to the community, leadership in extracurricular activities and her potential for continued success.  Robert L. Daiker, of Odebolt, student at Bellevue University is included in the 25th Annual Edition of The National Dean's List, 2001-2002.  Students are selected for this honor by their college deans, registrar or honor society advisors and must be in the upper 10% of their class, on their school's "Dean's List," or have earned a comparable honor.  

Sports Honors - Four Trojans were named to football First Team All District and two more landed on the Second Team Defense.  First Team Offense honors went to senior Troy Schroeder, and junior Rodney Olerich, who was named All District Punter.  First Team Defense honors went to seniors Klint Schulte and Brian Fertig, both of whom repeated as First Team All District performers.  Second Team honors went to seniors Bradley Stehr and Kevin Bloyer.  Nine Trojans were tabbed for Academic All-District, including seniors Kevin Bloyer, Jacob Henrich, Pat Oxendale and Marc Siebrecht; and juniors Dylan Bettin, Durel Carstensen, Thomas Heidenreich, Keith Schroeder and Kyle Siebrect.  The entire team also earned the Iowa High School Athletic Association Academic Award, with a combined 3.223 GPA.  "Top Five Listings" in the OA Football Record book went to Seniors Kevin Bloyer and Troy Schroeder, with Bloyer tying for 3rd place on "Most Field Goals", and 4th place for "Passes Completed in One Game", and "Career Passing Yards".  Schroeder holds fifth place on the all-time Trojan list for both "Receptions" and "Reception Yardage in a Career".

The Chronicle, Volume 111, Number 46, November 14, 2002

The Mayor Sez..
     From time to time I like to remind my readers (and critics) of what the "Mayor Sez" articles really mean.  My column really isn't mine, it's yours.  I wouldn't have a column to write if we were a dead or dying community.  However, we're not dead or dying.  Each week you have given me material to write about such as people involved in community projects, people serving, people doing things to make Odebolt a better place to live and work.  It is you, the people, who keep volunteering, contributing in time and money, that provide things for me to write about.  Keep it up!
 - R.J. Rex, Mayor

The Community Asset Award was presented to Larry Schulte of Odebolt by the Odebolt Rotary on Tuesday, October 29 at the weekly Rotary Club luncheon.  The award was given based on community service.  Schulte has supported youth baseball, Sac County Fair, and many other community activities.

Wanted: Christmas Decorations - The Community Center will be decorating for Christmas after Thanksgiving and is in need of good Christmas decor; artificial Christmas trees, lights, garlands, wreaths, etc.  Donations can be dropped off at Swanson Insurance or contact Sally or Pam Porter.

Quasie Queries -"THE WELL HAS RUN DRY".  Eleanor Peterson has continued the "Quasie Queries" column until she ran out of pictures, so this issue is the last column.  She admits it was a challenge at times, begging for pictures, and getting the column in on time, especially when she was hospitalized.  However, she has received many positive comments and enjoyed visiting and corresponding with many wonderful people.  Eleanor says, "I wish to thank all of those who so graciously agreed and/or offered to share pictures.  Also, a big thanks to Holly who so graciously helped in getting it in the paper each week.  Without these people, the column could not have been published.  As secretary of the Centennial Commission, I wrote the "Centennial Corner" twenty-five years ago:  I had the Qausie Querie" column in 2001-2002, and I hope they will ask me to do it again in 2027 because I plan to accept." 
     [Webmaster's note -  In honor of Odebolt's 125th year, The Chronicle has been running a feature called "Quasie Queries" by Eleanor Peterson.  A photo has been featured each week with "hints" about who is in the photo, with the answer posted in the following week's Chronicle. The feature has not been posted on odebolt.net due to problems of obtaining permission from so many people.  However, I certainly enjoyed it, as I am sure many Chronicle subscribers did.]

O-A Ministerial Association met November 6 at Faith Lutheran Church.  Superintendent of Schools Dennis Johnson reported on the Odebolt-Arthur Board of education's preliminary discussions on the future of the school system in light of projected declining enrollments and the changes in the school funding formulas that will begin taking effect in the next few years.  The Rev. Al Milligan was elected Chairman of the Odebolt-Arthur Ministerial Association, and the Rev. Albert Buelow was re-elected Secretary/Treasurer.  Discussion was held on needy persons in the area and money set aside for assistance.  Discussion was held on the possibility of the Ministerial Association being in charge of the food stand for Odebolt Creek Days.  A farewell dinner for the Rev. and Mrs. Glenn Lundahl was set for November 8, 2002, at the Country Inn at Lake View.  Those present at the meeting were the Rev. Charles Bulger, the Rev. Al Milligan, the Rev. Al Buelow, the Rev. Glenn Lundahl, the Rev Norm Erickson, Mrs. Glenda Paulson, and Mr. Dennis Johnson.

Odebolt United Methodist Church - 125th Anniversary was held Sunday, November 3, 2002.  Former ministers attending were: Rev. & Mrs. Lyle Lieder, Clear Lake; the Rev. & Mrs. Tom Woodin, Creston; Rev. & Mrs. Thomas Hotle, Sioux City; Mrs. Anthony Blaners, wife of the late Rev. Anthony Blankers and her daughter and son-in-law Mr. & Mrs. Russ Sevadge, Indianola; and Mr. & Mrs. Paul Farnham, Gowrie, son of the late Rev. J.A. Farnham.  The morning service included special music, recognition of former ministers, and a message by District Superintendent, Rev. James Hanke of Sioux City.  A catered dinner was served to nearly 200 people after the service.  An afternoon program featured special music, and "The Christmas Story" filmed in 1961, directed by George and Doris Hilburn and performed by the Sunday School classes.  Memories were shared by former ministers followed by the anniversary tea and continued fellowship in the church dining room.  Chairing the committee for the event was Elaine Raasch, assisted by Irene Siebrecht, Mary Jeanne Thompson, Ray Willhoite, Beverly Einspahr and Alice Hemphill and a host of willing helpers.

Library News - Approximately forty kids gathered at the Odebolt Public Library on October 30 for the Wednesday Book Bingo Halloween Party, organized by Donarae Cleveland, Librarian.  Several games were played with prizes awarded to the winning teams.  The hour ended with snacks and drinks.  September/October donations were memorials in honor of Helen Peters to the library Memorial Fund.

Hunters to be aware of Meth Lab Remnants - With fall hunting season underway, and hunters walking the ditches and fields, authorities are warning people to be aware of meth labs they may find.  Meth is a highly addictive stimulant that is made with easily obtainable ingredients such as drain cleaner, decongestant tablets and anhydrous ammonia.   Meth makers sometimes dump their equipment - coolers, plastic bags and glass jars - along roadways in the country and remote areas.  Some of the chemical residue can cause burns on the skin if handled, or poison the lungs if inhaled.  Sludge left over from making meth is also considered carcinogenic.

Call for Volunteers - The Colonial Manor Auxiliary Charter was signed May 15, 1980 by twenty one members.  By March, 1981 the membership numbered fifty-nine members.  Now known as the ONRC Auxiliary, the auxiliary was established to provide items and services for the residents of the nursing home . While the Odebolt Nursing and Rehab Center owners provide "need" items, the auxiliary adds the "extra" items.  During the years they have provided a teacher to present "Country School" each week, an air conditioner, an organ, patio furniture, Christmas tree, refrigerator, microwave, chairs, mirrors, hydraulic chair and dryer for the beauty shop and many, many other items.  Each year the Auxiliary sponsors a bazaar early in October to raise funds.  Some of the members have worked at the bazaar for twenty years and will retire this year.  Please consider being a part of the ONRC Auxiliary.  Younger members are most welcome AND needed.  Current officers are President Phrona Johnson, Vice-President Phyllis Kies, Secretary Marian Sonichsen and Treasurer Mary Jeanne Thompson.  Contact one of these ladies to find out how you can become part of this great organization!

The Chronicle, Volume 111, Number 45, November 7, 2002

The Mayor Sez..
      Was really great last week to welcome our two newest businesses to town (Dr. Mark Ford's Chiropractic Clinic and Shanda Mohr's new beauty salon).  Nice to have you and best wishes!
     Election day has come and gone (Whew!) and now let us all get behind our newly elected officials and vigorously support them.  Let them know that we elected them to do everything in their power to return our state and our country to peace and prosperity.
     Kudos to the Farmers Coop for improvements to our railroad crossings at North Main and North Walnut.  Manager Butch Hemphill stated that more will be done in 2003.
 - R. J. Rex, Mayor of Odebolt
    By the way, has anybody figured out how Odebolt got along in the past without a community center?  I think most of the "doubting Thomases" have changed their minds, which is fine, or just faded away!  The negative people that are still around wouldn't give a penny to anything, anyway.  Just look at all the events that have already taken place and the many, many events that have been booked for the future.  Speaking of giving a penny, the community center sure could use some more contributions. (Hint, hint!).

Legion Auxiliary News - Odebolt American Legion Auxiliary Roose Post #313 met October 14th with 19 members present.  President Ruth Neville and Chaplain Madeline McTasney presented a memorial in honor of Mrs. George (Dorothy) Landgraf, former treasurer.  Mrs. Phyllis Gardner was elected Treasurer to replace Dorothy.  Donna Simonsen, Claudia Olson and Sally Dinges were welcomed as new members.

Soup Dinner & Bazaar - First Presbyterian Church of Odebolt will hold a Soup Dinner and Craft and Bake Goods Bazaar on Saturday, November 16 between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. at the church dining hall.  Soups served will be Chicken noodle, Chili or Broccoli/Cheese.  Cheese sandwiches, fresh veggies and beverages will accompany the soup.  You can then top it all off with homemade pies, cakes and other desserts.  Free-will donation.

Best Students Name Best Teachers - A select group of America's Teachers are being honored by their toughest critics... their former students, in the seventh edition of Who's Who Among America's Teachers, 2002.  Teachers were selected by students listed in Who's Who Among American High School Students, who were requested to nominate one teacher from their entire academic career who "made a difference in their lives" by helping to shape values, inspiring interest and/or challenging them to strive for excellence.  Odebolt educators included in the 7th edition are:  Marilyn King at O-A Elementary; and Duane Anderson, Glenn Becker, Sally Becker and Marilyn Buehler, of Odebolt-Arthur Community Schools.

Give the Gift of Life - Donate blood in Odebolt on Monday, November 11 at the Odebolt Community Center from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Please call 668-4487 to schedule your life-saving appointment today.  Walk-ins are also very welcome.  Type "O" donors are especially encouraged to give.  The vital importance of type "O" blood is its crucial role as a universal blood type.  The shortage of type "O" blood in our area is serious and we need your help.  Your blood can help save someone's life.

Deaths: Hazel Sommers, 91, of Odebolt died Thursday, Oct. 31, 2002, at Odebolt Nursing and Rehab Center.  Born August 1, 1911 in Wheeler Township, Sac County, Iowa, daughter of Edward A. and Mary (Peterson) Carlson; graduated Odebolt High School; worked as bookkeeper in Des Moines and in Odebolt at Cracker Jack Popcorn.  Married Harry C. Sommers in June, 1943 in Odebolt.  Survived by nephews Ed and Karl Sandberg and family; step-daughters and step-sons, Marjorie Keikens, Eileen Pollen, Jean Gehlen, Marilyn Forsling, Tom Sommers; 19 grandchildren and 41 step great and great-great grandchildren. Services Nov. 2, 2002 at Faith Lutheran Church in Odebolt.  Burial, Odebolt Cemetery. 

• Iowa State Senator Steve King won Iowa's new 5th Congressional District seat for the US Congress in Tuesday's election.  We have a local man going to Washington!  Congratulations, Steve!