Dusting Off the Archives
News from Verndale's Past
75 Years Ago, December 20, 1945
•The many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Brink of Minneapolis, former Verndale residents, were very sad last week when the news was heard that their son, Sgt. Robert II Brink had been killed in a plane crash in Texas on Wednesday, December 12.
•Cpl. Burt Pettit arrived home Sunday from Lowry Field, Texas, with an honorable discharge from the Army. Bert has had four years, eight months, and 11 days of service in the Army. Prior to receiving his discharge, he was stationed in California. Burt is the son of Mr. and Mrs. C.P. Pettit.
•Pvt. Marvin D. Jasmer of Verndale began his nine-week basic training at Harlingen Army Air Field, Texas. This course consists of instructions in first aid, map and photo reading, close order drill, military discipline, and camouflage.
40 Years Ago, December 18, 1980
•While learning about the duties of a police officer, second graders also made the acquaintance of Sam, a Verndale police canine, as Police Chief Cederic Haugen spoke with them about his job, and how Sam assists, both on regular duty and on special assignments. Sam is rated one of the top dogs in the state for sniffing marijuana, as well as tracking suspects, and is often called upon to assist in neighboring areas.
•Matthew Schafer stared in disbelief as he met Santa on Saturday at the bank appreciation day, while Ryan Tichy of Hewitt decided he’d rather be with mama than Santa as portrayed in the photo. Santa had lost some weight, telling the youngsters it was hard work getting here with so little snow on the ground. After visiting with each child and learning their gift desires, Santa presented each with a bag of treats.
•First graders were winners of the good manners lunchroom award for the past two weeks. Pictured, representing their room in proudly displaying the plaque which hung in their room in recognition of their achievements were Jim Kveton and Jennifer Ludovissie.
15 Years Ago, December 22, 2005
•Nathan Roth, of Wadena and the Wadena County Farm Bureau, was recognized for his years of service as Minnesota Farm Bureau (MFB) Young Farmers and Ranchers Chair and the state board of director during the MFB Annual Meeting in Bloomington. Roth is pictured receiving his plaque from retiring MFB President Al Christopherson.
•The Verndale Pirates hosted the Pine River-Backus Tigers on Tuesday night on the basketball court. The Pirates played hard from the start and kept the heat on through the entire game. Playing two halves instead of four quarters makes the game move a lot quicker with more constant action. Junior Wayne Kopp again led the team in scoring making three 3-point shots with a total of 19 points for the game. The final score was 65-39.
•The Lady Pirates traveled to New York Mills to play the Eagles. In the past, they have been a pretty tough team to beat...back in the day of Janet Karvonen. Coach Art Schluttner guided the girls to a win with Cayla Collison leading the team in scoring with a total of 14 points. Not far behind was Sophomore Hillary Kern with 13 points.