May 4

Country Courier
S e r v i n g To d d C o u n t y , M N
VOLUME 23; NUMBER 2 - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013 CIRCULATION 6,000

What you didnt know about Christmas

Interesting Christmas Facts
There are many interesting facts surrounding the Yuletide season. Some of these are centred around the myths and old wives' tales that inspired many of the customs we see today while others depict actual events that occurred during the period. A few of these are presented below for your reading enjoyment. Ever wondered where the idea of elves came from? They are actually modern day versions of Nature folk described in Pagan religions of the past. The Holy Days and Fasting Act of 1551 in Britain declares that all its country's citizens must attend the annual church services held on Christmas day. In fact it goes as far as stating that no vehicle should be used to travel to church on this day. The law still exists on the books, although it is not observed. The tradition of burning a Yule log actually has its roots in ancient Scandinavia. Supposedly the Yule log was a source of good luck and its remnants were saved to inspire good fortune throughout the year. It was such a widely held belief that people even threw the ashes in wells to make the water safer to drink. It was once believed that any woman who went under a mistletoe and was not kissed would not marry the coming year. The annual Christmas pudding was more than just a tasty treat. Small items were placed in them which had the power to predict what the New Year would bring. Coins were associated with a gain in wealth, a ring was a sign of an imminent marriage and a button signified extended bachelorhood. This idea actually goes back to the middle ages where the cake being served on the Twelfth Night would come complete with a hidden bean. Whoever found this bean was declared king for that one night. If you counted all the gifts that were given in the song Twelve Days of Christmas you would realize that the number of gifts being presented were 364 in total, thus a gift was given for each day of the year. Christmas was illegal in England from 1647-1660. This was enforced by the then leader Oliver Cromwell who believed it was immoral to hold celebrations on one of the holiest days of the year. The celebration of Christmas was therefore a criminal offence which could lead to an individual being arrested if he or she was found guilty of condoning any revelry during the period.

Strange Christmas Facts

Christmas is perhaps the most anticipated event of the year. It is a time of good natured gift exchange, feasting and celebration. Nothing beats the fun and good times that can be experienced during the Yuletide season. Yet Christmas is not without its strange associations, a few of these have been listed below, some may even elicit a chuckle or two. The legendary Christmas pudding is actually an off shoot of the Celtic dish frumenty. The strangeness of the pudding is inspired by the myth that surrounds it. Supposedly people believed it was unlucky to cut a Christmas cake before

Christmas Eve. But, the pudding wasn't the only thing that was guarded by a long-standing myth. Mince pie was said to be unlucky if cut with a knife, additionally it was considered to encourage bad luck when eaten outside of the period between Christmas Eve and Twelfth Night. The great thing about Mince pie however, is that it somehow had the magical power to give you good luck if you ate one every day for the twelve days of Christmas. Christmas Carols are great, right? Wrong, well at least according to some folks down in Pensacola Florida who were outraged at the loud singing that accompanied the rendition of a few old favorites at a Mall during the Christmas season. Maybe it wasn't so much the carols as the horrible singing that may have sullied the performance. Pets are people too, this may be what pet owners are thinking during the Christmas season. It has been estimated that at least 56 percent of Americans sing to their pets. It may just be more fulfilling considering that pets cannot possibly complain. The people at Reynolds et al make a substantial amount of money selling foil during the Yuletide season. It has been confirmed that at least 3000 tons of foil are used to wrap turkeys

annually. Warning: Christmas shopping may be hazardous to your health. If you are an avid Christmas shopper statistics have concluded that you will be elbowed at least three times while shopping. Ouch! Sending Christmas cards is still the thing to do around Christmas time. Americans on average send out 28 Christmas cards to friends and family yearly, and guess what, it's certainly not in vain either, most will receive 28 for the same period. Christmas is a great time to exercise. You will walk an average of five miles between the parking lot and stores, however, don't let this give you a false sense of security, most people still gain those pesky Christmas pounds despite this. Leftovers can sometimes be your enemy. Spoilt leftovers are responsible for 400,000 cases of post Christmas associated illnesses.

FREE

Have a safe, Merry Christmas!

Do Sun Dogs really indicate cold weather ahead?

Many people associate sun dogs with an upcoming cold weather pattern. This photo was taken on Thursday, December 5th. The first day of a weeks worth of zub zero temperatures. Maybe there is some truth to the belief that sun dogs mean the weather is going to take a downward turn. The scientific explanation of a sun dog is: The familiar 22 halo around the Sun or Moon occurs because of refraction in tiny hexagonal ice crystals in the air. With the 60 apex angle of the prism formed by extending the sides of the crystal and the index of refraction of ice (n=1.31) one can calculate the angle of minium deviation to be 21.84.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT CHRISTMAS almost 1,000 presents. It was made by

Norwegian scientists have hypothesized that Rudolphs red nose is probably the result of a parasitic infection of his respiratory system. The Germans made the first artificial Christmas trees out of dyed goose feathers. Each year more than 3 billion Christmas cards are sent in the U.S. alone. All the gifts in the Twelve Days of Christmas would equal 364 gifts. The true love mentioned in the song Twelve Days of Christmas does not refer to a romantic couple, but the code for God. The person who receives the gifts represents someone who has accepted that code. For example, the partridge in a pear tree represents Christ. The two turtledoves represent the Old and New Testaments. Most of Santas reindeer have malesounding names, such as Blitzer, Comet, and Cupid. However, male reindeer shed their antlers around Christmas, so the reindeer pulling Santas sleigh are likely not male, but female. In A.D. 350, Pope Julius I, bishop of Rome, proclaimed December 25 the official celebration date for the birthday of Christ. According to the Guinness world records, the tallest Christmas tree ever cut was a 221foot Douglas fir that was displayed in 1950 at the Northgate Shopping Center in Seattle, Washington. The traditional three colors of Christmas are green, red, and gold. Green has long been a symbol of life and rebirth; red symbolizes the blood of Christ, and gold represents light as well as wealth and royalty. Two weeks before Christmas is a popular time for couples to break up Contrary to popular belief, suicide rates during the Christmas holiday are low. The highest rates are during the spring. The worlds largest Christmas stocking measured 106 feet and 9 inches (32.56 m) long and 49 feet and 1 inch (14.97 m) wide. It weighed as much as five reindeer and held

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 2, Friday, December 13, 2013 beans for lunch. Bolivians celebrate Misa del Gallo or Mass of the Rooster on Christmas Eve. Some people bring roosters to the midnight mass, a gesture that symbolizes the belief that a rooster was the first animal to announce the birth of Jesus. The British wear paper crowns while they eat Christmas dinner. The crowns are stored in a tube called a Christmas cracker. In Poland, spiders or spider webs are common Christmas trees decorations because according to legend, a spider wove a blanket for Baby Jesus. In fact, Polish people consider spiders to be symbols of goodness and prosperity at Christmas. Alabama was the first state in the United States to officially recognize Christmas in 1836. Oklahoma was the last state the declare Christmas a holiday Christmas wasnt declared an official holiday in the United States until June 26, 1870. Oklahoma was the last U.S. state to declare Christmas a legal holiday, in 1907. Mistletoe (Viscum album) is from the Anglo-Saxon word misteltan, which means little dung twig because the plant spreads though bird droppings. Ancient peoples, such as the Druids, considered mistletoe sacred because it remains green and bears fruit during the winter when all other plants appear to die. Druids would cut the plant with golden sickles and never let it touch the ground. They thought it had the power to cure infertility and nervous diseases and to ward off evil. Evergreens (from the Old English word aefie meaning always and gowan meaning to grow) have been symbols of eternal life and rebirth since ancient times. The pagan use and worship of evergreen boughs and trees has evolved into the Christianized Christmas tree. Because they viewed Christmas as a decadent Catholic holiday, the Puritans in America banned all Christmas celebrations from 1659-1681 with a penalty of five shillings for each offense. Some Puritan leaders condemned those who favored Christmas as enemies of the Christian religion. A Yule log is an enormous log that is typically burned during the Twelve Days of Christmas (December 25-January 6). Some scholars suggest that the word yule means revolution or wheel, which symbolizes the cyclical return of the sun. A burning log or its charred remains is said to offer health, fertility, and luck as well as the ability to ward off evil spirits. Because of their pagan associations, both the holly (associated with the masculine principle) and the ivy (the feminine) and other green boughs in home decoration were banned by the sixth-century Christian Council of Braga. The poinsettia is native to Mexico and was cultivated by the Aztecs, who called the plant Cuetlaxochitl (flower which wilts). For the Aztecs, the plants brilliant red color symbolized purity, and they often used it medicinally to reduce fever. Contrary to popular belief, the poinsettia is not poisonous, but holly berries are. Christmas has its roots in pagan festivals such as Saturnalia (December 17-December 23), the Kalends (January 1 -5, the precursor to the Twelve Days of Christmas), and Deus Sol Invictus or Birthday of the Unconquerable Sun (December 25). The Christians church heartily disapproved of such celebrations and co-opted the pagans by declaring December 25 as Christs day of birth, though there is no evidence Christ was born on that day. Santa Claus is based on a fourth-century bishop from modern-day Turkey Santa Claus is based on a real person, St. Nikolas of Myra (also known as Nikolaos the Wonderworker, Bishop Saint Nicholas of Smyrna, and Nikolaos of Bari), who lived during the fourth century. Born in Patara (in modern-day Turkey), he is the worlds most popular non-Biblical saint, and artists have portrayed him more often than any other saint except Mary. He is the patron saint of banking, pawnbroking, pirating, butchery, sailing, thievery, orphans, royalty, and New York City. Early illustrations of St. Nicholas depict him as stern, commanding, and holding a birch rod. He was more a symbol of discipline and punishment than the jolly, overweight elf children know today. Puritan Oliver Cromwell outlawed Christmas celebrations and carols in England from 1649-1660. The only celebrations allowed were sermons and prayers. Wassail is from the Old Norse ves heill, meaning good health. Christmas stockings allegedly evolved from three sisters who were too poor to afford a marriage dowry and were, therefore, doomed to a life of prostitution. They were saved, however, when the wealthy Bishop Saint Nicholas of Smyrna (the precursor to Santa Claus) crept down their chimney and generously filled their stockings with gold coins. There are two competing claims as to which president was the first to place a Christmas tree in the White House. Some scholars say President Franklin Pierce did in 1856; others say President Benjamin Harrison brought in the first tree in 1889. President Coolidge started the White House lighting ceremony in 1923. President Teddy Roosevelt, an environmentalist, banned Christmas trees from the White House in 1912. It is estimated that the single White Christmas by Irving Berlin is the best selling single of all time, with over 100 million sales worldwide. There are approximately 21,000 Christmas tree farms in the United States. In 2008, nearly 45 million Christmas trees were planted, adding to the existing 400 million trees. The first lighted Christmas tree can be traced to Martin Luther The first person to decorate a Christmas tree was reportedly the Protestant reformer Martin Luther (1483-1546). According to legend, he was so moved by the beauty of the stars shining between the branches of a fir tree, he brought home an evergreen tree and decorated it with candles to share the image with his children. The first printed reference to a Christmas tree was in 1531 in Germany. Approximately 30-35 million real (living) Christmas trees are sold each year in the U.S. Christmas is a contraction of Christs Mass, which is derived from the Old English Cristes msse (first recorded in 1038). The letter X in Greek is the first letter of Christ, and Xmas has been used as an abbreviation for Christmas since the mid 1500s. In 1962, the first Christmas postage stamp was issued in the United States. In Germany, Heiligabend, or Christmas Eve, is said to be a magical time when the pure in heart can hear animals talking. The Viking god Odin is one precursor to the modern Santa Claus. According to myth, Odin rode his flying horse, Sleipnir (a precursor to Santas reindeer), who had eight legs. In the winter, Odin gave out both gifts and punishments, and children would fill their boots or stockings with treats for Sleipnir. The earliest known Christmas tree decorations were apples. At Christmastime, medieval actors would use apples to decorate paradise trees (usually fir trees) during Paradise Plays, which were plays depicting Adam and Eves creation and fall. Commissioned by Sir Henry Cole (18081883), British illustrator John Callcott Horsley (1817-1903) invented the first Christmas card in 1843. According to the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF), there are 2,106 million children under age 18 in the world. If there are on average 2.5 children per household, Santa would have to make 842 million stops on Christmas Eve, traveling 221 million miles. To reach all 842 million stops, Santa would need to travel between houses in 2/10,000 second, which means he would need to accelerate 12.19 million miles (20.5 billion meters) per second on each stop. The force of this acceleration would reduce Santa to chunky salsa. Christmas purchases account for 1/6 of all retail sales in the U.S.

the Childrens Society in London on December 14, 2007. Christmas trees have been sold in the U.S. since 1850. Christmas trees usually grow for about 15 years before they are sold. Many European countries believed that spirits, both good and evil, were active during the Twelve Days of Christmas. These spirits eventually evolved into Santas elves, especially under the influence of Clement C. Moores The Night Before Christmas (17791863) illustrated by Thomas Nast (18401902). Each year there are approximately 20,000 rent-a-Santas across the United States. Rent-a-Santas usually undergo seasonal training on how to maintain a jolly attitude under pressure from the public. They also receive practical advice, such as not accepting money from parents while children are looking and avoiding garlic, onions, or

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BEST WISHES For The Coming Year

Thanks to all our friends and neighbors, our favorite time of year is also our busiest.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year too!

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The Todd County Country Courier, Page 3, Friday, December 13, 2013

You never know what you might find at any of our stores. You can count on warm clothing for the entire family, toys for the kids, household items, sporting goods and lots more. So, when youre making your list for Christmas Shopping bring it to the Thread Sheds - Shop and Save!

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The Todd County Country Courier, Page 4, Friday, December 13, 2013

Funny Christmas Facts

Christmas is a great period mostly because of the revelry, the feasts, good company and best of all the time off from work. There are many things that most people will know about Christmas; these are the

more conventional Christmas associations including Santa, the Nativity story, the star of Bethlehem et al. However, there are other things that only those who go in search of the bizarre may know off hand. With this in mind, here is a list of funny, yet interesting Christmas facts.

Pig head, it's what's for dinner. The traditional Christmas dinner in England used to be a pig head prepared with a mustard sauce. Most English folk are possibly quite delighted that this isn't the case anymore. Witches and Evil spirits are the greatest broom thieves. The

Norwegians once believed that witches and devious spirits were likely to steal their brooms on Christmas Eve. Who knows maybe a mischievous prankster stole a few brooms during that period and the legend stuck. Bah Christmas. Perhaps not the best line created by Dickens,

mainly because Bah Humbug just has that extra something special about it. Most people would probably agree that Dickens' decision to work on the famous catchphrase was a good move indeed. There is a special act in Britain that actually makes it mandatory to go to church on Christmas day. The act that is deemed the Holy Days and Fasting Act still exists, however, not so much enforced. Additionally no vehicle of any kind is to be used to get to the Christmas service. Forego throwing out your Christmas tree and make it lunch. The Evergreen is actually edible, well most parts of it anyway. In addition, it is nutrient enriched, so if you take the advice stated previously you'd be getting a good source of Vitamin C and roughage. Don't mind that you will be eating a tree; it's just one step away from any other vegetable. Bake your bread on Christmas Eve and it will remain fresh forever. If only. There is an old wives' tale that actually suggests that bread baked on Christmas Eve is mold resistant. While it cannot be known now how many people believed this, it's pretty obvious that any believers would be converted after the appearance of mold on their bread beyond 5 days or so. Kris Kringle really lives in the North Pole. But guess what - he foregoes the reindeer and drives a 1984 Ford Tempo, additionally he delivers Pizza instead of working in a magical toy shop.

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Riverside Liquor Long Prairie 320-732-2626 Open Mon - Sat 8 am - 10 pm

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM

Riverside Liquor
Long Priaire 320-732-2626
Open Mon. - Sat. 8 am - 10 pm

Happy Holidays from Blade Publishing!

We Look Forward To Serving You In 2014

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 5, Friday, December 13, 2013

CHRISTMAS FOOD CUSTOMS AROUND THE WORLD

Happy Holidays
From The Browerville Liquor Store Staff Browerville, MN 320-594- 6445

KONETZKOS MEAT MARKET

BROWERVILLE, MN 320-594-2915

W ishing Everyone A Merriest Of Holidays!

We Look Forward To Doing Business With You In 2014

NOW through December 24th

Argentina: After attending Midnight mass on Christmas Eve, a traditional meal would include roast pig, turkey and pan dulce (a sweet Christmas bread). Christmas occurs during the summertime and many families barbecue Christmas dinner or spend the day at the beach. Australia: On Christmas Eve snacks are left out for Father Christmas (cookies and milk, or maybe some beer?) and water for the kangaroos that pull his sleigh while in Australian airspace. Canada: In Newfoundland on St. Stephen's Day (December 26) Catholic families would have a dish made with dried, salted cod named 'Christmas Fish.' Germany: According to German tradition, partaking in a roast of pork dinner on Christmas Eve will prevent evil and promote prosperity in the New Year. Germany: The Germans tend to have a game feast on Christmas day, usually wild boar or venison. Ireland: The traditional Irish Christmas Eve dinner is the 'Black Fast' of boiled salt cod and potatoes. Ireland: In Ireland there are 3 special puddings made for the holidays; one for Christmas, one for New Year's and another for Twelfth Night. Ireland: Turkey with whiskey glaze - whiskey and honey together with a splash of orange will give an impressive and great tasting twist to the traditional bird. Italy: Tortellini is a speciality of the Bolognese Christmas dinner (filled with turkey, ham, and sausage forcemeat). Jamaica: Christmas dinner usually consists of rice, gungo peas, chicken, ox tail and curried goat. Mexico: In Oaxaca, Mexico, Christmas Eve is also the Night of the Radishes, when large radishes are cut into animal shapes. Netherlands: The Dutch eat chicken stuffed with sauerkraut at Christmas to mark the end the year and celebrate the beginning of the New Year. The reason for chicken? Because the animal scratches the ground, it symbolizes scratching the earth over the old year. Norway: Julekaka, Christmas Bread, is a favorite in Norway. It is a sweet yeast raised bread flavored with cardamom, citron and raisins. Norway: The big festive feast takes place on Christmas Eve. Most people around the coastal regions eat fish - concoctions of cod and haddock and a variety called lutefisk. Inland they go for pork chops, specially prepared sausages and occasionally lamb. Poland: The traditional Christmas Eve supper consists of 12 non-meat dishes, representing the months of the year and featuring fish such as pike, herring and carp. Other typical Polish dishes are fish soup, sauerkraut with wild mushrooms or peas and Polish dumplings with various fillings. Scotland: Rich tatties and neeps - a traditional dish made with mashed potatoes, Swede, carrots, onion and butter, garnished with chives and black pep-

per. Sweden: Hiding an almond inside rice pudding is a Christmas custom in Sweden. Whoever gets it has good luck for the new year. United Kingdom: The majority of families (90%) around the UK consider turkey a Christmas tradition. According to the British Turkey Information Service, UK residents consumed 10 million turkeys in 2000 for Christmas, along with 25 million Christmas puddings, 250 million pints of beer and 35 million bottles of wine. Wales: Leek and onion sauce to accompany the turkey. Leeks, onion, cloves, breadcrumbs, milk, nutmeg and bay leaves blended to create a thick and creamy alternative to ordinary bread sauce. Frumenty was a spiced porridge, enjoyed by both the rich and poor. It is thought to be the forerunner of modern Christmas puddings with origins in a Celtic legend of the harvest god Dagda, who stirred a porridge made up of all the good things of the Earth. The traditional flaming Christmas pudding dates back to 1670 in England. It is a British Christmas tradition that a wish made while mixing the Christmas pudding will come true only if the ingredients are stirred in a clockwise direction. Eating mince pies at Christmas dates back to 16th century Britain, where iIt is still believed that to eat a mince pie on each of the Twelve Days of Christmas will bring 12 happy months in the year to follow. At lavish Christmas feasts in the Middle Ages, swans and peacocks were sometimes served for dinner. A traditional Christmas dinner in early England was the head of a pig prepared with mustard. The Christmas turkey first appeared on English tables in the 16th century, but didn't immediately replace the traditional fare of goose, beef or boar's head in the rich households. In Victorian England, turkeys were popular for Christmas dinners. Some of the birds were raised in Norfolk, and taken to market in London. To get them to London, the turkeys were supplied with boots made of sacking or leather. The turkeys were then walked to market. The boots protected their feet from the frozen mud of the road. Boots were not used for geese: instead, their feet were protected with a covering of tar. One notable medieval English Christmas celebration featured a giant 165-pound pie. The giant pie was nine feet in diameter. Its ingredients included: * 2 bushels of flour * 20 pounds of butter * 4 geese * 2 rabbits * 4 wild ducks * 2 woodcocks * 6 snipes * 4 partridges * 2 neats' tongues * 2 curlews * 6 pigeons * and 7 blackbirds.

During the Christmas season, over 1.76 billion candy canes will be produced. Candy canes started out as straight white sticks of sugar candy used to decorate Christmas trees. A choirmaster at Cologne Cathedral decided have the ends bent to depict a shepherd's crook and he would pass them out to the children to keep them quiet during the services. It wasn't until about the 20th century that candy canes acquired their red stripes and if you turn it upside down, it becomes the letter J symbolizing the first letter in Jesus' name. In Armenia, the traditional Christmas Eve meal consists of fried fish, lettuce, and spinach. The meal is traditionally eaten after the Christmas Eve service, in commemoration of the supper eaten by Mary on the evening before Christ's birth. In the Ukraine, they bake a traditional Christmas bread called "kolach." This bread is braided into a ring, and three such rings are placed one on top of the other, with a candle in the center of the top one. The three rings symbolize the Holy Trinity. They also set the table for Christmas Eve dinner with two tablecloths: one for the ancestors of the family, the other for the living members as in pagan times, ancestors were believed to be benevolent spirits who, when shown respect, brought good fortune. The Ukrainians also prepare a traditional twelve-course meal at Christmas time. A family's youngest child watches through the window for the evening star to appear, a signal that the feast can begin. In Australia, due to it being extremely hot, the most common forms of food eaten at Christmas are ham, turkey and chicken all served cold, as well as prawns or even a barbeque. Due to an abundance of fresh seasonal fruit such as mangoes, cherries and other stonefruit, a variety of these are also usually eaten. The inventor of the Christmas cracker or bon-bon was Tom Smith who owned a sweet shop in London. Visiting France in the 1840's, while Tom was in France, he came across sweets wrapped in a twist of paper. As they were quite popular, he began to copy the idea. When Tom noticed that young men were buying them to give to their sweethearts, he began to place "love mottoes" on small slips of paper inside the sweet wrapping. Later in 1846, and thinking about Christmas, Tom's thoughts turned towards placing toys and novelties inside the twisted wrapping. He experimented with this and invented the idea of producing a wrapping that could be pulled apart. Voila! The humble Christmas cracker!

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 6, Friday, December 13, 2013

REPAIR & SALES 313 1st St. NE, Little Falls 888-398-8998 320-616-2122
Goldsmith Jewelers is designed on the foundation of service, quality merchandise, expert repair and TRUST. We also Buy Gold and Diamonds Hours: M - F ~ 8 - 5 Available by appointment after hours.

Todd County Public Health

IMMUNIZATIONS NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY - FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE Vaccine available: Diphtheria Tetanus Pertussis (DTaP), Polio, MMR, Hib, Varicella, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, HPV, Meningococcal, Pneumococcal, Tetanus Diphtheria, Tetanus Diphtheria Pertussis (Tdap) Medical Assistance and Minnesota Care accepted. Card must be presented at time immunization is given. No one will be refused because of inability to pay. Call 320-533-4652 for more information. Mon. Dec. 23, Long Prairie IMM Clinic, Courthouse Annex, 9:30 - 12 noon & 1 - 4 pm CHILD AND TEEN CHECKUPS A well child clinic - ages 6 months to 21 years old. Fee based on family size and income for families who have insurance with high deductibles or do not have health insurance. Minnesota Health Care Programs (Medical Assistance and Minnesota Care) accepted (card must be presented at time service is provided). No one will be refused because of inability to pay. Call for an appointment 320-5334652. Tue. Nov. 12, Assemblies of God, Eagle Bend, By appointment Tue. Dec. 17, Wed. Dec. 18, Thur. Dec. 19, Courthouse Annex, By appointment Call Debra 320-533-4652 FAMILY PLANNING & HEALTH SERVICES Confidential services available: Complete physical exam, birth control methods, pregnancy testing, STI & HIV testing, pap smears, education and counseling. Clinic locations: Long Prairie, Menahga, Walker, Pine River and Wadena. Charges based on income and family size. No one will be refused services due to inability to pay. Medical Assistance and all other insurances accepted. For more information or an appointment call 1-877-275-6123. Thur. Dec. 19, Family Planning Clinic, CentraCare Clinic, Long Prairie, By appointment only, Call 1-877-275-6123 WIC - WOMAN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN WIC is a nutrition education and supplemental food program for pregnant or post partum women and infant and children

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ages birth to 5 years. The WIC Program must treat everyone the same. You can't be treated unfairly because of your race, color, national origin, age, sex or handicap. If you think you have been treated unfairly you should write to: Administrator, Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22303. Mon. Dec. 16 & Wed. Dec. 18, Long Prairie WIC, Main Street Government Center, 9 - 4 pm Call 1-800-953-4440 or 320-7324456 to see if you are eligible for WIC. PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING CLINICS Services available: Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar (Glucose), Cholesterol, Hearing, Hemoglobin, Oxygen Saturation Level, Weight/Body Fat Analysis, Health Education for medication or disease management, and Foot Care. Services are billable to Medical Assistance. Donations accepted. No one will be refused services because of inability to pay. Partially funded under contract with the Central MN Council on Aging as part of the Older Americans Act Program. Tue. Dec. 17, Senior Center, By appointment, Bertha, Call Jo Fern 218-639-2080 Wed. Dec. 18, Heritage Place, By appointment, Clarissa, Call Irene Kotula 218-756-2212 Thur. Dec. 19, Greenleaf Apartments, By appointment, Eagle Bend, Call Lois Klucas 218738-5180 Thur. Dec. 19, Senior Center, By appointment, Long Prairie, Call Myrna Golnitz 320-732-2282

12 lakes opened to spearing

Twelve lakes scattered throughout Minnesota, including two in the metropolitan area, now are open for darkhouse spearing, the Department of Natural Resources said. Spearing restrictions were repealed effective Dec. 2 on the following lakes: Beers and West Battle in Otter Tail County; Big Mantrap in Hubbard County; Deer, Moose, North Star and connected Little North Star and Spider in Itasca County; Lobster in Douglas County; Cross Lake Flowage in Pine County; Eagle in Hennepin County; Owasso in Ramsey County and Sugar in Wright County. Darkhouse spearing is limited to northern pike, catfish, whitefish and other rough-fish species. Other game fish species such as muskellunge are illegal to spear at any time. Anglers ages 18-89 need both an angling license and a spearing license to spear, unless otherwise exempt. All other regulations related to spearing, angling and shelters apply to these waters. Additional information is available on page 77 of the 2013 Minnesota Fishing Regulations handbook and online at www.mndnr.gov/regulations/fish ing. For more information, contact the DNR area fisheries office nearest the lake of interest using the online directory at www.mndnr.gov/areas/fisheries.

Clarissa Drug
218-756-2242

HAPPY HOLIDAYS
From Rick, Jane, Cindy, Kathy, Carrie & Gina
WE WILL BE CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY

Reg. HOURS: M-F 8am-5:30pm Sat. 8am-Noon

Our Neck Of The Woods

MERRY CHRISTMAS
Closing December 28th Until Further Notice

STOP IN FOR STOREWIDE SALES!

Come In And Check Out Our Handmade Furniture
Connie (Sarff) Nelson Book Signing - December 21st 10am - 1 pm
Her Book Stolen Years Is Her True Story On Domestic Abuse & Survival.

521 Main St, So. Browerville 320-761-6572

Doug & Patti Johnson email: abstractmn@earthlink.net

- THINK GREEN - KEEP TODD COUNTY CLEAN - REMODELING, NEW CONSTRUCTION OR JUST CLEANING TODD COUNTY TRANSFER STATION HAS THE
UP

RIGHT SIZE DEMOLITION CONTAINER TO FIT YOUR NEEDS. * WE DROP OFF AND PICK UP *

(as defined in Minnesota State Statutes)

(Price at Transfer Station)

Demolition

THE STAFF AT TODD COUNTY TRANSFER THANKS THE PUBLIC FOR THEIR SUPPORT IN HELPING KEEP TODD COUNTY CLEAN AND OUR OPERATION RUNNING SMOOTHLY

Sooner or later it all comes to us

Todd County Transfer Station 2013 Product Price List

Lg. quantity (10 yds or more/landfill) per yard Demolition (Transfer Station) per yard Concrete (separate load/landfill) per yard Concrete (Transfer Station) per yard Demolition landfill gate fee

$8.00 $10.00 $4.00 $8.00 $5.00

Garbage

(Assorted material that is not specifically identified on this list) All garbage must be weighed with a minimum charge of $3.00 .05 $84 + 17% tax* $5.00 $5.00 $10.00 $5.00 $1.00 $5.00

Garbage price per lb. Large quantity (must be weighed before unloading) price per ton

Demolition Containers
Rent per day Mileage per mile Todd Co. min. charge per trip Todd Co. max. charge per trip $5.00 $2.50 $50.00 $150.00

Furniture
(Including couches, chairs, mattress, box springs)

Brown Goods (VCRs, Stereos, etc.....)

Computer monitor/TVs Ballast Fluorescent bulbs (over & under 4 ft) Mercury Vapor

White Goods

Free Items

Brush, leaves, grass clippings, auto batteries & scrap iron

(Large appliances including microwaves)

$7.00 $2.00 $3.00 $5.00 $150.00 $250.00

Tires

HHW-Household Hazardous Waste

May - September
HHW - BY APPOINTMENT ONLY!

(Prices double if tires are on the rim) Passenger Pickup (large 4 ply) Truck (20 or larger diameter) Large quantity (car, pickup) per ton Large quantity (tractor & industrial) per ton *17% State Solid Waste

- FREE -

Todd County Transfer Station * 320-594-2210

1 mile South of Browerville on Hwy. 71

Were not just the dump anymore! Your 1 Stop Shop for All Your Disposal Needs!

Need Christmas Ideas? Stocking Stuf fers?

Have A Family Member In College Who Would Love To Keep Up With Their Hometown News?

Purchase A Gift Certificate For Someone OR Renew A Subscription Before December 19th And Be Entered To Win $100 Browerville Bucks!
For Each Gift Certificate OR Renewal Your Name Will Be Entered To Win! Stop In Today & Fill Their Stocking With A Gift That Keeps On Giving All Year!

$22 In Todd County $27 In Minnesota $32 Out Of State $15 College Rate (9 month)
KEEP UP TO DATE ON ALL THE LOCAL HAPPENINGS & EVENTS FOLLOW THE ENTIRE SEASON OF TIGER SPORTS GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE GREAT GIFT IDEA!

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 7, Friday, December 13, 2013

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 8, Friday, December 13, 2013

December is . . . .
Hi Neighbor Month, National Stress Free Family Holiday Month, Bingo's Birthday Month, and Read A New Book Month December 1 is . . . . . National Pie Day and Eat A Red Apple Day December 2 is . . . . . National Fritters Day

December 3 is . . . . . National Roof-Over-YourHead Day December 4 is . . . . . Wear Brown Shoes Day

December 5 is . . . . . National Sacher Torte Day December 6 is . . . . . National Gazpacho Day and Mitten Tree Day December 7 is . . . . . National Cotton Candy Day December 8 is . . . . . Take It In The Ear Day December 9 is . . . . . National Pastry Day December 10 is . . . . Festival For The Souls Of Dead Whales December 11 is . . . . National Noodle Ring Day December 12 is . . . . National Ding-A-Ling Day December 13 is . . . . Ice Cream and Violins Day December 14 is . . . . National Bouillabaisse Day December 15 is . . . . National Lemon Cupcake Day December 16 is . . . . National Chocolate Covered Anything Day More Info on Chocolate

December 17 is . . . . Underdog Day and National Maple Syrup Day December 18 is . . . . National Roast Suckling Pig Day December 19 is . . . . Oatmeal Muffin Day December 20 is . . . . Games Day December 21 is . . . . Look At The Bright Side Day, National Flashlight Day, National French Fried Shrimp Day, and Hamburger Day December 22 is . . . . National Date-Nut Bread Day December 23 is . . . . Roots Day December 24 is . . . . National Egg Nog Day December 25 is . . . . National Pumpkin Pie Day December 26 is . . . . National Whiners Day December 27 is . . . . National Fruitcake Day December 28 is . . . . Card Playing Day and National Chocolate Day December 29 is . . . . Pepper Pot Day December 30 is . . . . Festival Of Enormous Changes At The Last Minute and National Bicarbonate Of Soda Day December 31 is . . . . Unlucky Day

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IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

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Applications may be picked up at the plant located at 10 Riverside Drive Long Prairie
Conditional job offers are contingent on passing a pre-employment physical and drug screen. Long Prairie Packing is an equal opportunity employer.

Professional & Business Directory

Have your ad be seen by over 30,000 readers monthly! Call 320-594-2911 for more information.

Building & Remodeling

Noska Plumbing & Heating
Complete Sales & Service
Furnaces Water Pumps Water Softeners Air Conditioners

Farm Supply

Healthcare

FEED - SEED - FERTILIZER

320-594-6366 Doug Noska Browerville

Free Estimates
Master Plumbers #PM003101 Well Contractors

Pr o Ag Ser vice
Clarissa (218) 756-2112 Eagle Bend (218) 738 2552

Drapery Design
The latest window fashions Ardis Ebnet, Designer/Consultant

Veterinary
Todd County Veterinary Clinic
Large & Small Animals
Browerville & Clarissa 218-756-2226 Long Prairie 320-732-6922 Eagle Bend 218-738-3462

(320) 732-3739
24901 325th Ave. Long Prairie, MN 56347

Blinds Shades Drapery Valances

Noska Construction LLC

Drywall Tiling Taping Framing Roofing Lic # BC634520

Dr. J.J. Sauer Dr. J.R. Pieper Dr. C.W. Hanvy

WANTED TO BUY
Standing timber, all species. Specialize in selective harvesting. We also do clear cuts. Baums Custom Logging & Firewood Sales, Burtrum, MN. Office: 320-285-3565 cell: 320-815-1863
tf

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS AD HERE Call Stacey at 320-594-2911

FOR SALE
For Sale at Lovens Gifts - Crafts - Glassware Tools - Furniture - Fishing Flys - Purses - Gloves Bedding - Dolls - Etc. Behind Post Office in Brower-ville. Call 1-320-5942464 Look for Open sign. _______________________

All Steel Buildings Must Go! 1-60' x 100', 1-81' x 125' & 150' x 263' May Split: Call 1800-411-5866 ext. 017 Today & Save Thousands!!! __________________________

Grant Noska
27476 County 26

Browerville, MN 56438

320-630-3638

Todd County Country Courier, Page 9Friday, December 13, 2013 It seems like the deer was biting and shaking for several minutes, but it was likely only several seconds. I, being smarter than a deer (though you may be questioning that claim by now) tricked it. While I kept it busy tearing the bejesus out of my right arm, I reached up with my left hand and pulled that rope loose. That was when I got my final lesson in deer behavior for the day. Deer will strike at you with their front feet. They rear right up on their back feet and strike right about head and shoulder level, and their hooves are surprisingly sharp. I learned a long time ago that, when an animal like a horse strikes at you with their hooves and you cant get away easily, the best thing to do is try to make a loud noise and make an aggressive move towards the animal. This will usually cause them to back down a bit so you can escape. This was not a horse. This was a deer, so obviously, such trickery would not work. In the course of a millisecond, I devised a different strategy. I screamed like a woman and tried to turn and run. The reason I had always been told NOT to try to turn and run from a horse that paws at you is that there is a good chance that it will hit you in the back of the head. Deer may not be so different from horses after all, besides being twice as strong and 3 times as evil, because the second I turned to run, it hit me right in the back of the head and knocked me down. Now, when a deer paws at you and knocks you down, it does not immediately leave. I suspect it does not recognize that the danger has passed. What they do instead is paw your back and jump up and down on you while you are laying there crying like a little girl and covering your head. I finally managed to crawl under the truck and the deer went away. So now I know why when people go deer hunting they bring a rifle with a scope so that they can be somewhat equal to the prey.

Corn fed venison--it seemed like a good idea at the time

As I sit here behind this laptop, I now realize that this definitely wasnt the brightest idea I have ever had. I was going to rope a deer, put it in a stall, feed it up on corn for a couple of weeks, then kill it and eat it. The first step in this adventure was getting a deer. I figured that, since they congregate at my cattle feeder and do not seem to have much fear of me when we are there (a bold one will sometimes come right up and sniff at the bags of feed while I am in the back of the truck not 4 feet away), it should not be difficult to rope one, get up to it and toss a bag over its head (to calm it down) then hog tie it and transport it home. I filled the cattle feeder then hid down at the end with my rope. The cattle, having seen the roping thing before, stayed well back. They were not having any of it. After about 20 minutes, my deer showed up 3 of them. I picked out.. ..a likely looking one, stepped out from the end of the feeder, and threw.. ..my rope. The deer just stood there and stared at me. I wrapped the rope around my waist and twisted the end so I would have a good hold. The deer still just stood and stared at me, but you could tell it was mildly concerned about the whole rope situation. I took a step towards ittook a step away. I put a little tension on the rope and then received an education. The first thing that I learned is that, while a deer may just stand there looking at you funny while you rope it, they are spurred to action when you start pulling on that rope. That deer EXPLODED. The second thing I learned is that pound for pound, a deer is a LOT stronger than a cow or a colt. A cow or a colt in that weight range I could fight down with a rope and with some dignity. A deer no chance. That thing ran and bucked and twisted and pulled. There was no controlling it and certainly no getting close to it. As it jerked me off my feet and started dragging me across the ground, it occurred to me that having a deer on a rope was not nearly as good an idea as I had originally imagined. The only upside is that they do not have as much stamina as many other animals. A brief 10 minutes later, it was tired and not nearly as quick to jerk me off my feet and drag me when I managed to get up. It took me a few minutes to realize this, since I was mostly blinded by the blood flowing out of the big gash in my head. At that point, I had lost my taste for corn-fed venison. I just wanted to get that devil creature off the end of that rope. I figured if I just let it go with the rope hanging around its neck, it would likely die slow and painfully somewhere. At the time, there was no love at all between me and that deer. At that moment, I hated the thing, and I would venture a guess that the feeling was mutual. Despite the gash in my head and the several large knots where I had cleverly arrested the deers momentum by bracing my head against various large rocks as it dragged me across the ground, I could still think clearly enough to recognize that there was a small chance that I shared some tiny amount of responsibility for the situation we were in, so I didnt want the deer to have it suffer a slow death, so I managed to get it lined back up in between my truck and the feeder a little trap I had set before handkind of like a squeeze chute. I got it to back in there and I started moving up so I could get my rope back. Did you know that deer bite? They do! I never in a million years would have thought that a deer would bite somebody, so I was very surprised when I reached up there to grab that rope and the deer grabbed hold of my wrist. Now, when a deer bites you, it is not like being bit by a horse where they just bite you and then let go. A deer bites you and shakes its head almost like a pit bull. They bite HARD and it hurts. The proper thing to do when a deer bites you is probably to freeze and draw back slowly. I tried screaming and shaking instead. My method was ineffective.

Christmas Song Trivia

How many times does Santa check his list? Twice! The Grinch is as cuddly as a? Cactus! It would of been a laugh to see Mommy doing what last night? Kissing Santa Claus! One foggy Christmas Eve, Santa came to say what? Rudolph With Your Nose So Bright, Won't You Guide My Sleigh Tonight? Good tidings to you, and all of your what? Kin! Who was seated next to me a day or two ago in the song Jingle Bells? Miss Fanny Bright! Why do I want my two front teeth for Christmas? So I could wish you Merry Christmas! What did Frosty The Snowman do when they placed the magic hat on his head? He began to dance around! What does Alvin want for Christmas in The Chipmunk Song? A Hula Hoop! On the eleventh day of Christmas, what did my true love send to me? Eleven Pipers Piping! I'm dreaming of a White Christmas with what? Every Christmas card I write!

Check us out online www.

bladepublishing.net

Todd County Country Courier, Page 10 Friday, December 13, 2013

GIZA
PLUMBING & HEATING
EST. 1934

Central Minnesota Electric, Inc.

Heating & Cooling Systems Sheetmetal Work Water Pumps Plumbing Supplies & Fixtures For The Do-it-Yourselfer MARV GIZA GREG GIZA 061803PM 062674PM 218-894-2284 after hours: 218-894-1127

Clothing for Everyone, Household Items, Tools, Toys & Misc.

Dr. Peter Brenny

Dentist
218-894-2755
Emergency and new patients welcome.
Daves Septic Service
SEPTIC & HOLDING TANK SERVICE PORTABLE TOILET RENTAL Hewitt: 218-924-4659 Cell: 218-640-2339 David G. Rokes - Owner

Complete Professional Wiring Service

Backhoe Service, LLC

Free Estimates
MPCA Certified Septic Systems

Statema

THREAD SHEDS
Browerville
Thread Shed I 320-594-6456

Staples
Thread Shed II 218-895-5023

Sauk Centre
Thread Shed III 320-352-2829

John Wippler & Al Poser The Af fordable Professionals 320-632-3946 320-749-2449

From design to installation Compliance inspections Licensed-Bonded-Insured

Site Prep Basements Waterlines Driveways Landscaping Black Dirt Gravel Fill Dirt Clearing & Grading Ditch Cleaning Snow Plowing-Commercial & Residential Construction & Abandonment of Manure Pits Andy Statema 320-594-2912

Stop by one of the 3 Thread Sheds Today!

Dahlman Abstract Company

Incorporated since 1958

Twardowski Excavating, Inc.

From Design to Installation Dozer Work Trackhoe Excavator Work Dump Truck Hauling Bobcat Work Demolition Driveways Basements SEPTIC Black Dirt

Chad Twardowski
Long Prairie Cell: 320-760-1127
Home: 320-732-3809
Licensed Bonded Insured FREE Estimates 24 Hour Emergency Service

SERVING TODD COUNTY WITH COMPLETE ABSTRACTING SERVICES

320-732-3997
Fax: 320-732-6162 332 Central Ave Long Prairie
( Located next to the Post Office )

S YSTEMS

Toll Free 888-594-6347

*Tune-Ups *Custom Exhaust *A/C Service *Brakes *Coolant Flush *Computer *Diagnostics *Alignment

532 Hwy 71 N., Eagle Bend -

218-738-2913

HAVE YOUR AD SEEN BY THOUSANDS

CALL STACEY 320-594-2911 TO PLACE YOUR AD IN THE TODD COUNTY COUNTRY COURIER

Todd County Country Courier, Page 11 Friday, December 13, 2013

History of Christmas
Christmas is celebrated on the 25th of December and commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. The word Christmas is derived from the Old English word Cristes maesse which literally translates to Christ's Mass. Although no one knows for sure the exact date of Christ's birth, the date chosen to celebrate it is related to the Roman Saturnalia festival that lasted from the 17th 21st of December. This date was chosen somewhere during the 4th century AD by the heads of the church. The date became widely accepted by most branches of Christianity with the exception of the Armenians who reserved the 6th of January for Christmas celebrations. During the reformation of the 19th century there was some disfavour with Christmas and its associations with paganism. Many protestants distanced themselves from the tradition. However, by the latter part of the 19th century the celebration of Christmas grew wide spread. It was around this time that the modern Christmas tree was introduced in Britain. The 20th century brought a general acceptance of the tradition despite the criticisms that were originally set against it. CHRISTMAS AND GIFT GIVING The tradition of gift-giving has strong association with Paganism. The Roman festival of Saturnalia featured periods of gift-giving, this idea was later incorporated into the traditional Christmas celebrations. The gifts started out very modest and evolved to include more elaborate expressions of love. This was not met with full acceptance by some Christians who disliked the Pagan connection. However, supporters of giftgiving, likened the activity to that of the Magi, who gave gifts to baby Jesus, in this regard it became symbolic and necessary to the grand tradition of Christmas. CHRISTMAS AND SANTA CLAUS Santa Claus became a part of the Christmas tradition around the Middle Ages however, his part in Christmas was not popularized until after he was depicted as a jolly stout old man wearing a red and white suit in the 19th century. This figure of Santa was immediately captured by celebrants all over. The character of Santa Claus is said to be inspired by Saint Nicholas of Myra, a bishop, who went around giving the poor children of his village gifts. The legend of Santa centers around the North Pole and his magical workshop of elves. Every year he makes presents for those children who were nice. Those who were naughty received nothing but a lump of coal. The figure of Santa has become inseparable from the tradition of Christmas on a whole. CHRISTMAS AND CAROLS Another important part of the Christmas celebrations are the singing of carols. These have their origins in the past well before the concept of Christmas carols was actualized. Most of the popular carols we now sing were written in the 19th century and were sung from house to house near the Christmas season. Soon the church adopted this tradition in the 1820's, giving these songs a greater sense of reverence.

218-894-2871 - or 218-820-8227

PAUL DRAKE TREE SERVICE

COMPLETE & PROFESSIONAL
Topping Trimming Tree & Stump Removal Deer Plots & Trails Custom Lot Clearing & Brushing
INSURED FREE ESTIMATES

Bucket Truck

If youre looking to buy, stop in and see one of our sales agents. We have many listings... Ones sure to have your name on it!
Arlen Muenzhuber ~ Jamie Flan ~ Mona LaDue ~ Brandon Kelly

www.east-westrealty.com Long Prairie ~ 320-732-2222

Bill Nelson, Broker

Vanguard Insurance Services,Inc.

Auto Home Life Health Farm Business
Independent Agent Joe Pesta Agency
529 Lake St. S. P.O. Box 28, Long Prairie, MN 56347

320-732-6629 Fax: 320-732-1907

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS AD HERE

Call Stacey at 320-594-2911

We Wish You A Merry Christmas

The General Store

Areas Largest Selection of Hunting & Fishing Equipment
204 Central Ave Osakis

December 2013
Business Profile Spotlight

REPAIR & SALES

313 1st St. NE, Little Falls 888-398-8998 320-616-2122

Our customers talk...

Goldsmith Jewelers is designed on the foundation of service, quality merchandise, expert repair and TRUST. We also Buy Gold and Diamonds Hours: M - F ~ 8 - 5 Available by appointment after hours.

GoldSmith Jewelers

320-859-5159
Mon-Thurs, 8AM-6 PM, Fri 8AM-8PM, Sat 8AM-6PM, Sun 8AM-2PM

www.goldsmithlf.com goldsmithlf@gmail.com

CENTRAL TODD COUNTY CARE CENTER

Offering a full range of therapy services Rehabilitative Therapies

HORSESHOE

SEPTIC SERVICE
Por tab le Toilet Rentals

Out-Patient Rehab Services Home Care Skilled Nursing Facility Assisted Living
Hwy 71 Clarissa, MN 218-756-3636

Browerville, MN

Were #1 in the #2 Business!

"GoldSmith Jewelers - an important part of every step of your lives."

Sellnow Law Office
Generations Of Service

800-282 2895 320-594-2895

SERVING CENTRAL MN

Thomas H. Sellnow, Attorney Jason R. Sellnow, Attorney

Primary Office - Long Prairie 229 Central Ave. Long Prairie T: 320-732-1919 TOLL FREE - 877-297-1125 Staples Office 133 N 4th St Staples T: 218-894-4618

G. Marlene Clark, P.A.

Attorneys at Law

Goldsmith Jewelers in Little Falls has a long and trusted tradition of value and service. When you have a special occasion in your life, come to Goldsmith for quality and selection. We carry: Promise Rings, Engagement Rings, Wedding Rings, Bride's Pendants, Anniversary Rings, Mother's Rings, Mother & Child Pendant, Baptism Jewelry, Children's Jewelry and much more. Jeff Stumpf has purchased GoldsSmith Jewelers from Tar and Sandy Smith on October 1, 2013. Jeff trained beside Tar for 18 years and is excited to continue the tradition of excellent customer service, great selection and craftsmanship. With clients in the seven state area, GoldSmith is proud of their reputation and most repairs are guaranteed to be completed in five working days. Some can even be accomplished while you wait. Coupled with friendly service and an elegant and relaxing atmosphere, shopping is always an enjoyable experience at GoldSmith Jewelers, located in Little Falls. GoldSmith Jewelers is located on the Mississippi River in Little Falls, Minnesota. We offer a wide selection of the finest jewelry and custom jewelry designs. We buy gold - will pay cash. Our customer service is of the highest quality. We cherish the relationships built with our customers and strive to create a shopping experience that is delightful and relaxing. Store Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Also available by appointment Local Phone Number: 320-616-2122 Long Distance Toll-Free Number: 888-398-8998 Website: www.goldsmithlf.com

MBC Drainage LLC

43965 450th St, Sauk Centre
Farm Drainage Specialists Ditching Tiling Excavating Manure Pits Dave Bailey, Manager

320-352-6961
Karl Larson, 320-808-8012 Jason Marthaler, 320-249-6062 Howard Marthaler, 320-250-2984

Combined work experience over 90 years!

Where Life Begins...Again

Valley View Estates

Locally Owned Family Operated

Mediation Estate Planning/Probate Real Estate/Township Law Divorce/Child Support Custody/Adoption 25 3rd Street South Long Prairie, MN 56347 Office: 320-732-2918 Fax: 320-732-2586

A place to live... A place to share... A place to call home... Call today so we can send you more information, or arrange a tour!
320-732-3516 1-888-563-2700 www.valleyviewassistedliving.com

GoldSmith Jewelers also purchases scrap gold and diamonds at a fair price. If you have old jewelry laying around - bring it to GoldSmith we pay cash for gold and diamonds.

1104 4th Ave NE, Long Prairie, MN

Join Our Business Profile Section And Share Your Business With Up To 10,000 Readers For Only $45 A Month! Contact Stacey For Details At: 320-594-2911 or staff@bladepublishing.net