Stewartville American Legion Post 164 & Auxiliary Unit #164
September 24, 2007 at 12:00 a.m.
REACHING A MILESTONE-- Marge Henry, left, and Dorothy Marshall have each been honored for being a part of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 for 50 years. The women received recognition pins at the Auxiliary's Monday, Sept. 17 meeting.
GOLD STAR LUNCHEON -- The Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 hosted its annual Gold Star Luncheon at the Stewartville American Legion last Thursday, Oct. 18. Those who attended include, front row, from left, Auxiliary members Ollie Fritsche, Audrey Farnsworth, Gold Star Sister Mary Ellen McNamara, Patti Hanson, Ruby Hanson's daughter-in -law; Gold Star Mother Ruby Hanson, Marge Henry, Barb Viker, Elsie Ness, Lil Ringey and Dorothy Marshall. Back row, from left, Arlene Hanken, Katherine Skyhawk, Viny Byrne, Carole Kiehne, Carol Chihak, Sharon Moehnke, Marlene McDonnough, Donna Carlson, Alice Kuhn, Margaret Andreason, Fran Janssen and Charlotte Kath.
HONORED GUESTS -- The Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 honored a number of special guests at its annual Gold Star Luncheon last week. Guests included Mary Ellen McNamara, left, a Gold Star Sister whose brother, Harry Yetter Jr., who served in the U.S. Navy, was killed in World War II; and Ruby Hanson, far right, a Gold Star Mother whose 20-year-old son, Terry Hanson, was killed in Vietnam in 1968. Patti Hanson, center, is Ruby Hanson's daughter-in-law.
Members of the American Legion Auxiliary who served the residents include, front row, from left, Marilyn Howard, Margaret Andreason, Audrey Farnsworth and Viny Byrne. Back row, from left, Charlotte Kath, Patrice Lager, Peggy Paulson, Kristin Anderson and Diane Ramaker.
The Stewartville American Legion Post 164 visited Bonner Elementary School on Friday afternoon, Nov. 2, speaking to the third-graders about the importance of community service and respecting the American flag. Here, Dave Nystuen, Bonner Elementary School principal, far left, announces the steps in properly folding an American flag as Don Lyman, left, and Wayne Freiheit, of the Stewartville American fold the flag.
THANKS TO THE EDUCATORS -- Members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary celebrated American Education Week last week by delivering cupcakes to local schools, including Bonner Elementary School, Central Intermediate School, Stewartville High School and Stewartville Middle School. At Bonner, the visitors were welcomed by a number of educators, including, seated, from left, LaRae Bushman, a paraprofessional; Kellie Krueger, a third-grade teacher; and Christin Hale, a Title I paraprofessional. Standing, from left, are Legion Auxiliary members Cheryl Roeder and Viny Byrne, along with Maryan Gisler, Bonner secretary, and Carole Kiehne and Judy Schroeder of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary.
HONORING OUR VETERANS -- Members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 served cake and ice cream to local and area veterans at a Veterans Day ceremony at the Stewartville Care Center on Monday, Nov. 12. Legion Auxiliary members include, front row, from left, Fran Janssen, Dorothy Marshall and Charlotte Kath. Back row, from left, Richard Paulson, commander of Stewartville American Legion Post 164, along with Auxiliary members Karen Freiheit, Margaret Andreason and Barb Viker.
A GATHERING OF VETERANS -- Veterans who live at the Stewartville Care Center, Stewartville Apartments and Root River Estates gathered for a Veterans Day ceremony at the Care Center on Monday, Nov. 12. They are, seated from left, Warren Frie, Ernie Christie, Carl Hoover, Norb Schroeder, Wendell VanderBie, Clayton Paulson and Kevin Chinn. Standing, from left, Harry Geerdes, Bill Holzer, Amos Henke and Richard Paulson, commander of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164.
Richard Paulson, commander of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164, center, spoke with veterans Harry Geerdes, left, and Bill Holzer at a Veterans Day ceremony at the Stewartville Care Center on Monday, Nov. 12. Geerdes and Holzer live in the Stewartvilla Apartments.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Junior Auxiliary delivered Christmas cards to veterans living at the Stewartville Care Center last week. Below, Amos Henke, who served in the U.S. Navy, opens his card as Auxiliary members from left, Meagan Beaver, Johanna Welter, Cassie Beaver, Amelia Welter and Rachel Beaver look on.
IN THEIR MEMORY -- Sara Zent of the Stewartville High School Band plays taps during the annual Memorial Day ceremony at Woodlawn Cemetery on Monday, May 28.
Kiley Baldner, 18 months, of Stewartville, above, reaches for the Easter bunny at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164's annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday morning, March 22.
Kiley Baldner, 18 months, of Stewartville, smiles as she says hello to the Easter bunny at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and Legion Auxiliary Unit 164's annual Easter event on Saturday, March 22.
BICYCLE WINNERS -- Children who won bicycles in the Stewartville American Legion Post 164's and Legion Auxiliary Unit 164's annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 22 included, Natalie Weber and Natalie Goetsch in the 0-2 age division, and Joel Davis and Mattison Gilbert in the 3-4 age division. Winners in the older children's divisions, below, include, not necessarily in order, Kalie Pollay and Melia Hovey, 5-6; Cameron Argo and Kailee Brower, 7-8; and Quentin Wildeman and Katherine Engel, 9-10.
BICYCLE WINNERS -- Children who won bicycles in the Stewartville American Legion Post 164's and Legion Auxiliary Unit 164's annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 22 included, Natalie Weber and Natalie Goetsch in the 0-2 age division, and Joel Davis and Mattison Gilbert in the 3-4 age division. Winners in the older children's divisions, included, not necessarily in order, Kalie Pollay and Melia Hovey, 5-6; Cameron Argo and Kailee Brower, 7-8; and Quentin Wildeman and Katherine Engel, 9-10.
POPPY DAYS -- Mayor Chuck Murphy, seated in center, signed a proclamation last week declaring May as Poppy Month in the city of Stewartville. Representatives of the Stewartville American Legion and Legion Auxiliary, along with the Stewartville VFW and the VFW Auxiliary, will seek donations on May 1-2 and again on May 8-9. Donations honor veterans who have given their lives for freedom and pay for rehabilitation programs that help veterans and their families. Representatives of the local veterans organizations who will help with Poppy Days include, front row, from left, Sheila Majerus, Peggy Paulson, Mayor Murphy, Fran Janssen and Katherine Skyhawk. Back row, from left, Richard Paulson, Charlotte Kath, Maurice Sinn, Emil Janssen and Ollie Fritsche.
THE NEW QUEEN -- Sheila Majerus, seated at right, was selected as the 2008 poppy queen by the members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 last week. Standing, from left, are Laura Eberle, poppy princess; Travis Capelle, poppy prince; and Peggy Paulson, chair of the Legion Auxiliary's poppy committee.
The First District American Legion Auxiliary Junior Conference was held on March 23, at the Grand Meadow Unit. First District Junior Officers for 2013 include: Marissa Ziebell, Sgt at Arms, JoJo Welter, Chaplain, Amelia Welter, 1st Vice President, Lydia Bacon, President and Rachael Allen, 2012 past president. Not pictured are Kaysie Allen, 2nd Vice President, and Heather Harvey, Secretary/Treasure.
The Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit #164 met on Monday, April 15 for their regular meeting and crowning of the poppy queen, princess and prince. Pictured from left is Brianna Ramaker, poppy princess; Peggy Paulson, poppy queen, and Timothy Swenson, Jr., poppy prince. The three will be in the Memorial Day parade and Fourth of July parade representing Stewartville American Legion Post #164 and Auxiliary.
Alex Colligan of Cub Scout Pack 156 wears his love for the United States on his face as he waits for the start of the Memorial Day Parade near Griffin-Gray Funeral Home on Monday morning, May 27.
Laura Louks, front and center, plays taps as, from left, eighth-grade essayists Libby Christenson and Christina Anderson and Mayor Jimmie-John King, far right, listen on Memorial Day morning May 27.
First District President Karen Riess installed the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164's officers for 2013-14 at the Legion on Monday, June 17. Officers include, front row, from left, Donna Carlson, president; and Audrey Farnsworth, treasurer/first vice president. Back row, from left, Sharon Moehnke, second vice president; Tracy Kemp, historian; and Cheri Moore, secretary. Patrice Lager, sergeant at arms; and Viny Byrne, chaplain, are missing from the photo.
The Stewartville American Legion Post 164's officers for 2013-14 were installed at a meeting at the Legion on Monday, June 17. They include, front row, from left, Dave Nystuen, first vice commander; Richard Paulson, commander; Kristin Anderson, historian; and Thom Blade, second vice commander. Back row, from left, Roger Barsness, adjutant; Dennis Voll, sergeant at arms; Dick Moehnke, chaplain; and Greg Olson, judge advocate.
The Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 honored local Gold Star Families at a special event at the Legion last week. Seated second from right is Jacqueline Carson, mother of Nick Dickhut, a Stewartville High School graduate killed in Afghanistan in April 2012. Lloyd and Marie Dickhut, Carson's parents, are seated at left. Kate Towey, Gold Star Sister, is seated at far right. David Carson, Jacqueline's son, is in front at right; Kelsie Wenzel, a friend of the Carson family, is in front at left. Legion Auxiliary members include, front row, from left, Jane Herrick, Carol Chihak, Viny Byrne, Mayor Jimmie-John King, Charlotte Kath and Katherine Russell. Back row, from left, Peggy Paulson, Judy Schroeder, Diane Ramaker, Carole Kiehne, Cindy Oftedahl and Cheryl Roeder.
N THEIR HONOR -- Standing in formation at St. Bernard's Cemetery on Memorial Day, members of Stewartville veterans organizations fired a 21-gun salute to honor U.S. servicemen and women who have given their lives for freedom. The SHS Band and a number of local organizations took part in the annual parade before a large audience gathered for a ceremony at Woodlawn Cemetery.
Sara Zent plays taps at Woodlawn Cemetery during the Memorial Day ceremony.
Richard Paulson, commander of the American Legion presented the keynote address at the Memorial Day service.
Jared Groski and Alexa Weiss and children Keira, 3 months; and Addison, 2 years, joined hundreds of others who attended the annual Halloween party at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 last Thursday, Oct. 31. Keira dressed as a pony and Addison came as a cow.
Roger Peterson, commander of the Stewartville VFW Post 8980, standing, greets veteran Harry Geerdes, right, on Veterans Day.
Mayor Jimmie-John King spoke to a large audience of students and teachers at the annual Veterans Day ceremony at Stewartville High School on Monday, Nov. 11. Veterans deserve our thanks because they have always been willing to defend America's rights and freedoms, the mayor said. "Because of our veterans who have always protected our freedoms and always will, our nation is the envy of every nation in the world," he said. King said he is always humbled when veterans organizations ask him to speak. "I feel very small in their presence," he said. "They are truly the great heroes of our community."
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 celebrated American Education Week last week by delivering cupcakes to Central Intermediate School, above; Bonner Elementary School, Stewartville High School and Stewartville Middle School. Front row, from left, are Viny Byrne and Cheryl Roeder, Legion Auxiliary members. Standing in back are, from left, Carole Kiehne of the Legion Auxiliary, Zane McInroy, fourth-grade teacher; Judy Schroeder, Carol Chihak and Sharon Moehnke of the Legion Auxiliary; Tyne Winn, Central art teacher; along with Jeff Jacobsen and Brooke Haling, fifth-grade teachers.
U.S. Rep. Tim Walz, left, accepts the L. Mendel Rivers Award from Jeff Gustafson, retired chief master sergeant, U.S Air Force, center; and Don Roden, master sergeant retired and a member of the Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter 858, right.
Dr. Greg W. Olson of Stewartville, a teacher in the Dover-Eyota School District, left, has been named the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Senior High School State Teacher of the Year for grades 9-12. Gov. Dayton, right, congratulates Olson.
Richard Paulson, commander of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164, standing at the Veterans Memorial near the Legion, is set to host Stewartville's Memorial Day ceremonies at Woodlawn Cemetery on Monday, May 26. A parade will start from near Stewartville Assembly of God Church at 10 a.m., followed by the ceremonies at Woodlawn.
Nevaeh Crowson, a third grader at Central Intermediate School, seated, was the poppy princess and Evan Riggin, a third grader at Bonner Elementary School, was the poppy prince during Stewartville's annual Memorial Day ceremonies on Monday, May 26. The two rode in the Memorial Day parade.
Hundreds of local and area residents honored U.S. veterans on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26. At far left above, clockwise from lower left, Erik Sistad, Lori Bailey, Emily Rinken and Erin Ross, eighth graders, were the featured speakers at the annual ceremony at Woodlawn Cemetery.
Officers for the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 for 2014-15 include, front row, from left, Peggy Paulson, first vice president; Wanda Prescher, president; and Viny Byrne, chaplain. Back row, from left, Becky Carlson, treasurer; Sandy Fritz, sergeant-at-arms; and Diane Ramaker, secretary. Sharon Moehnke, second vice president, is missing from the photo.
Myron Ehrich, first district commander, and Glenn Mueller, first district membership chair, installed the Stewartville American Legion Post 164's local officers for 2014-15 on Monday evening, June 16. Front row, from left, are Ehrich, along with local Legion officers Richard Paulson, first vice commander; Thom Blade, commander; Kristin Anderson, second vice commander; and Mueller. Back row, from left, Chet Finley, finance officer; Jerry Korstad, chaplain; Roger Barsness, adjutant; Wes Alrick, judge advocate; and Dean Ramaker, historian.
Four veterans and three members of the Stewartville Morning Lions Club shared patriotic lessons with the third graders at Bonner Elementary School on Constitution Day, last Wednesday, Sept. 17. The veterans, who demonstrated the proper way to fold an American flag, include, in front, from left, Roger Peterson, Wes Alrick and Tom Wacholtz. Dave Nystuen, another veteran in the background at left, describes to the students the meaning behind each fold. Nystuen, the former principal at Bonner, joined a medical unit in the Minnesota National Guard in 1967. Peterson, the commander of the Stewartville Prescher-Kumm VFW Post, served in Afghanistan nine years ago. Alrick was a military policeman for the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era, and Wacholtz was a paratrooper in Vietnam in 1968 and 1969. Del Jahns of the Morning Lions told the students that they should always respect the American flag. "It's important for us to know that the flag represents our freedom, and it represents all the men and women who fought for our freedom," she said. Jahns and fellow Morning Lions Sharon Moehnke and Sheila Majerus brought dictionaries for the third graders. Jahns said that the dictionaries include all kinds of interesting information, such as the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, maps of seven continents, information about the 50 states, weights and measures, and sign language.
The Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 hosted its annual Gold Star Family Recognition Luncheon on Thursday, Oct. 16. Honored guests included Jacqueline Carson, fourth from left in the front row, mother of Nick Dickhut, a 2007 graduate of Stewartville High School who died in combat in Afghanistan in April 2012. David Carson, Nick's younger brother, is seated third from left in the front row. Tess Roeder, whose husband Chris died while serving with the U.S. Air Force in Germany in 1987, is seated in the center of the front row. Auxiliary members who attended include, front row, from left, Judy Adler, Wanda Prescher, Pat Ballinger (fourth from right in the front row), Arlene Hanken, Patricia Woolman and Carole Kiehne. Back row, from left, are Auxiliary mem-bers Judy Schroeder, Carol Chihak, Viny Byrne, Cecilia Halvorson, Jeanette Herrick, Katherine Russell, Charlotte Kath, Fran Janssen, Diane Ramaker, Tracy Kemp, Sharon Moehnke and Cheryl Roeder.
Many children enjoyed the Halloween party at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 on Friday afternoon, Oct. 31. Above, Max Nelson, 7, left, dressed as a Ninja wizard while his sister Kira, 9, was Harry Potter. The Nelson children live in rural Stewartville.
Many children enjoyed the Halloween party at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 on Friday afternoon, Oct. 31. Here, the Anderson children of Stewartville include, front row, from left, Rachel, 8, who dressed as a pink cheetah, and Aaron, 7, who was Spider-Man. Standing in back are Mateo, 11, a skeleton/football player; and Aiden, 9, a pirate.
The Stewartville Care Center celebrated Veterans Day with cookies and ice cream on Tuesday, Nov. 11. Care Center residents who served in the military were the special guests for the day. They included, from left, Fahy Lowrie, Roger Carlson, Gordon Rentz, Gene Swygman, Florence Reinhart, Burt Stiles, Roger Temanson, Leonard Stapleton and Clarence O'Neil.
Thom Blade, the commander of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164, was the featured speaker at the annual Veterans Day ceremony at Stewartville High School on Tuesday, Nov. 11. Blade spoke of the American Legion family, which includes the American Legion Auxiliary, the Sons of the American Legion and the American Legion Riders.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and Auxiliary Unit 164 celebrated American Education Week (Nov. 16-22) last week by delivering cupcakes to educators at Stewartville High School and Middle School, above, along with the staffs at Bonner Elementary School and Central Intermediate School. Peggy Paulson of the Legion Auxiliary, far left, and Richard Paulson of the Legion, second from right in back, delivered the cupcakes to educators, from left, Mary Regenscheid, Sherry Thompson, Katie Young and Kaysie Manion
Tammy Fritz, left, talks with Myrna Welter, leader of the Stewartville American Legion Junior Auxiliary, at Santa's Workshop & Bakery at the Stewartville American Legion on Saturday, Dec. 13. Crafters at the event offered American doll clothes, burlap wreaths and decorations, soaps, lotions, jewelry and beaded items, scarves, lighted decorations, frames, wooden crafts and more.
Amelia Welter, a junior at Stewartville High School, center, will be the Junior Poppy Queen for the Memorial Day Parade and ceremonies on Monday, May 25. Poppy princesses that day will include Anna Cummins, 9, a third grader at Central Intermediate School, left; and Alexis Eversman, 9, a third grader at Bonner Elementary School, right.
Mayor Jimmie-John King, center, recently signed a proclamation declaring May as "Poppy Month" in the city of Stewartville. Throughout this month, members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 will offer poppies in exchange for a donation to help veterans. The poppies will be available at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164. King's proclamation declares that the American Legion Auxiliary, the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary have adopted the poppy as their commemorative symbol. "The memorial poppy, assembled by disabled veterans, pays respectful tribute to those killed in war, and also benefits living veterans and their families," the proclamation states. "Public donations for poppies fund rehabilitation programs within each local community that benefit veterans, their families and ultimately our state and nation." Flanking Mayor King are Wanda Prescher, president of the American Legion Auxiliary, left; and Laurel Jacobs, a member of the Auxiliary Executive Board.
Jeremiah Oeltjen of the Sons of the American Legion, left, prays during a ceremony at St. Bernard's Catholic Cemetery on Memorial Day morning. Thom Blade, Legion commander, stands at center in the foreground.
Mike Quandt, left, and Norm Howe cooked the chicken for the Sons of the American Legion chicken barbecue on Saturday, June 27. The Sons of the American Legion hope to make the barbecue, which also included live music, an annual event.
Hunter Hysell, 6, left, and his sister Makayla, 4, of Grand Meadow, are all decked out in their costumes at the Kids Halloween Party at the Stewartville American Legion on Saturday, Oct. 31.
James Crawley, a Vietnam veteran and VFW member, was the featured speaker at the annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Stewartville High School gym on Wednesday, Nov. 11. Crawley advised the SHS and Stewartville Middle School students to find out what the military is like by talking with their parents, grandparents or other family members who have served. "You'll be amazed at the stories you hear," Crawley told the students.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and Auxiliary Unit 164 celebrated American Education Week (Nov. 16-20) last week by delivering cupcakes to educators at Stewartville High School and Middle School, above, and to the staffs at Bonner Elementary School and Central Intermediate School. Richard Paulson of the Legion, fourth from left, and Peggy Paulson of the Legion Auxiliary, third from right, delivered the cupcakes to educators, from left, Jessica Honsey, Charlie Aitken, Jim Parry, Chelsey Johnson, Kristin Remick and Ramsey Miller.
Vendors and crafters did good business at Santa's Workshop & Bakery at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 on Saturday, Dec. 12.
Dale Barnett, national commander of the American Legion, left, accepts a gift from Richard Paulson, first vice commander of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164, on Thursday, Feb. 4. The gift is a picture of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. Paulson took the photo and framed the picture. Paulson filled in for Dean Ramaker, commander of the Legion, who was unable to attend Barnett's visit to Stewartville.
Four children won new bicycles in a drawing at the Stewartville Sons of the American Legion Easter Egg Hunt at Florence Park on Saturday, March 26. From left are Kayleigh Mourning, standing in for her brother, Kingsten Nelson, 4, of Stewartville, who won the bicycle on which Kayleigh is sitting; and the other winners, Kaia Bicknese, 6, of Stewartville; Grace Amy, 7, of Stewartville; and Ava Monty, 1 1/2, of Grand Meadow, held by her brother, Ethan Monty.
Kathryn Rundle, 15 months, held by her dad Mark, of rural Stewartville, meets the Easter Bunny at the Stewartville Sons of the American Legion Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday morning, March 26. About 80 children, accompanied by their parents, took part in the proceedings at Florence Park.
Liam Maxwell, 2, of Rosemount, Minn., deposits his Easter eggs into a plastic bag held by Jennifer Maxwell of Stewartville, Liam's aunt, at the Stewartville Sons of the American Legion Easter Egg Hunt at Florence Park on a snow-covered Saturday morning, March 26. About 80 children hunted for hundreds of eggs at the event.
Mayor Jimmie-John King, seated in center, signed a proclamation last week declaring May "Poppy Month" in Stewartville. The proclamation states that the Memorial Poppy, assembled by disabled veterans, pays respectful tribute to those killed in war and also benefits living veterans and their families. Members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary will hand out poppies at the two Kwik Trip stores and the two Casey's stores on May 5, 6 and 7. Auxillary members include, front row, from left, Sheila Majerus and Wanda Prescher, Auxiliary president. Back row, from left, Laurel Jacobs and Peggy Paulson.
Sheila Majerus, seated, has been named the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164's poppy queen for 2016. Aubrey Frisch, left, and Autumn Wright, third graders, are this year's poppy princesses, selected based on their drawings for the annual poppy coloring contest. Majerus and the two princesses will ride in the Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 30.
Sheila Majerus, the poppy queen for the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164, places a wreath at Woodlawn Cemetery as poppy princesses Aubrey Frisch, left, and Autumn Wright look on.
Members of Stewartville's veterans organizations stand at attention during the annual Memorial Day ceremony at Woodlawn Cemetery on a warm and sunny Monday morning, May 30.
Pat Miner, first district president, standing in the center in back, installed new officers for 2016-17 for the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 on Monday, June 20. Incoming officers include, front row, from left, Diane Ramaker, secretary; Audrey Farnsworth, second vice president and treasurer; Wanda Prescher, president; and Peggy Paulson, first vice president. Back row, from left, Theresa Santema, chaplain and historian; Donna Carlson, executive board member; Pat Miner; and Laurel Jacobs and Carol Chihak, executive board members.
About 150 people took part in a two-mile walk to cure blood cancers at the second annual Seize the Day, Cure Blood Cancers on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2014. The walkers strolled through Florence Park and Bear Cave Park that day. That year's event raised more than $11,000, with six people bringing in money by volunteering to have their heads shaved.
Participants at the fourth annual Seize the Day, Cure Blood Cancers begin their two-mile walk near the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 on Sunday afternoon, Sept. 11. Angie McGill and friends organize the event in memory of Angie's mother, Glenda Kollasch of Bancroft, Iowa, who died of leukemia in September 2012.
The Stewartville varsity volleyball team captured second place at the Aerie Challenge in Apple Valley on Sept. 9-10. Team members are, kneeling, from left, Lily Welch, Carissa Smith, Emily Rinken, Jaidyn Brower, Kailee Brower, Anna Oeltjenbruns. Standing, from left, Coach John Dzubay, Jolie Stecher, Erin Lamb, Charlie Bleifus, Libby Christenson, Kaitlyn Augustin, Julianne Waugh, Amy Lofgren, Kaitlyn Prondzinski.
Beth Strobel accepts a $1,150 check for the American Heart Association from Wes Alrick, left, and Roger Peterson.
Theresa Hornberg of Stewartville, dressed as Batman, brought her children Grayson, 5, left, wearing a Superman suit with a six-pack, and Rayden, 4 months, a Viking, to the Halloween celebration at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 on Monday, Oct. 31.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and Auxiliary Unit 164 celebrated American Education Week by delivering cupcakes to the staffs at a number of local schools last week, including the teachers and staff members at the recently completed Bear Cave Intermediate School. Seated from left, Peggy Paulson, Wanda Prescher and Delores Peterson of the Legion Auxiliary deliver cupcakes to Bear Cave educators, standing from left, Zane McInroy, Courtney Fakler, Anna Button and Lynn Bussan.
Ben Hagen, a sixth grader, above, shakes hands with veteran Roy Fritz at the annual Veterans Day ceremony at Stewartville High School-Middle School on Monday, Nov. 14. Chase Neubauer, a seventh grader, waits in line at far left.
From left, at left, Norah Miland, Cami Elzen and Tonia Elzen welcome shopper Janet Hagen of Stewartville, right, to their booth at the Holidazzle Extravaganza at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 on Sunday, Nov. 27. The Elzens and Milands sold handmade crafts, Mason jars, home decor and more.
Kaydee Bergeson, an eighth grader at Stewartville Middle School, was the winner of the Stewartville VFW's Patriot's Pen Contest for her essay, "The America I Believe In."
The Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 hosted an egg bake breakfast at the Legion Hall on Sunday morning, March 5. Proceeds will help pay for Stewartville Middle School eighth graders' upcoming trip to Washington D.C. Above, Kara Zelinske, far left, serves Brent Richardson of Stewartville. Other workers include, from left, Keegan Zelinske, Bailee Swanson and Katelyn McClellan.
On Nov. 11, 2016, Duane J. Helland accepted an award for 70 years of continuous membership in the Stewartville American Legion Post 164. Helland, a World War II veteran, served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army in Okinawa. He received his 70-year Legion pin about 2 1/2 months before he died on Feb. 1 at the age of 92. Above, front row, from left, Mary Helland, Duane's widow, and Kathy Jensen, his daughter, display the photo of Duane Helland accepting his 70-year pin last Veterans Day. Last week, the women donated the photo to the Legion. Legion leaders who accepted the photo include, standing from left, Roger Peterson, commander; Roger Barsness, adjutant; and Richard Paulson, vice commander.
The Sons of the American Legion sponsored an Easter Egg Hunt at Florence Park on Saturday, April 15. Children who won bicycles in a drawing that day included, not in any specific order, Henry Himmer, Julia Nelson, Josh Davis, Addy and Brody Blake, Kaylee Wortman, Ryan and Tristin Giest, Madison Meyerhofer, Jack Owen and Owen Lehrman.
Mayor Jimmie-John King, seated in center, signed a proclamation last week declaring May "Poppy Month" in Stewartville. The proclamation states that the Memorial Poppy, assembled by disabled veterans, pays respectful tribute to those killed in war and also helps living veterans and their families. Members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 and VFW will distribute poppies at various locations this Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6. Proceeds from free-will donations for the poppies will help Stewartville area veterans and veterans rehabilitation programs. Representatives of the veterans organizations involved with the poppy project include, front row, from left, Wanda Prescher, president of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary; Mayor King and Richard Paulson. Back row, from left, Laurel Jacobs, Peggy Paulson and Hannah Lechner, who was named a poppy princess in 1993.
Johanna Welter, poppy queen, center; is flanked by Madelyn En, poppy princess, left; and Cole Kropp, poppy prince. The three will ride in the Memorial Day and Fourth of July Summerfest parades. Madelyn and Cole, third graders at Bear Cave Intermediate School, earned their titles by virtue of the quality of their short essays and poppy artwork.
Alyssa Jones, left, and Olivia Otto, eighth graders at Stewartville Middle School, were the featured speakers at Stewartville's annual Memorial Day ceremony at Woodlawn Cemetery on Monday, May 29.
Carter Mintey plays taps at the St. Bernard's Catholic Church cemetery as Jeremiah Oeltjen of the Sons of the American Legion, second from right, and Thom Blade, former commander of Stewartville American Legion Post 164, salute America's fallen heroes.
Several guests installed new 2017-18 officers for the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 on Monday evening, June 19. Incoming officers include, front row, from left, Wes Alrick, judge advocate; Jerry Korstad, chaplain; Roger Peterson, commander; Richard Paulson, first vice commander; Kristin Anderson, second vice commander; and Roger Barsness, adjutant. Back row, from left, Richard Skillestad, deputy vice commander; Glenn Mueller, district officer; Chet Finley, finance officer; Dennie Voll, historian; Dean Ramaker, sergeant-at arms; Scott Ihrke, first district vice commander; Wayne Hammon, first district adjutant; and Gary Miller, first district membership chair.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and Auxiliary Unit 164 celebrated American Education Week by delivering cupcakes to the staffs at all local schools last week, including the teachers and staff members at Bear Cave Intermediate School. Standing from left, Richard and Peggy Paulson, representing the Legion and Legion Auxiliary, deliver cupcakes to Bear Cave educators, from left, Brooke Hilger, paraprofessional; Joyce Jorde, Rose Steinman and Maryan Gisler, administrative assistants; along with Jen Nelson and Angie Kime, paraprofessionals.
Laurence Doten, who in 1903 moved with his parents and siblings to his mother's childhood home near Stewartville, was honored for his service in World War II and gave his life as an immigration inspector.
Edward Kruger of Rochester dressed as Captain America and Emery, his 1 1/2-year-old daughter, was Tigger at the annual Halloween party at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 on Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 31.
Dean Ramaker of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164, right, speaks with June Meyer, a resident of the Stewartville Care Center, during a Veterans Day program at the Care Center on Saturday, Nov. 11.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164, from left, Dean Ramaker, Wes Alrick and Don Lyman, demonstrate how to properly fold an American flag at the annual Veterans Day ceremony at Stewartville High School on Friday, Nov. 10.
Ashlynn Anderson, 2, of Stewartville, held by her mother Kristin, is one of many children who met the Easter Bunny during the Sons of the American Legion's Easter Egg Hunt at Florence Park on a cold and windy Saturday morning, March 31.
Children who won bicycles in a drawing at the Sons of the American Legion Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday morning, March 31 include, from left, Logan Podein, Brooke Zimmerman, Rhett Floen, Owen Lehrman, Zachary Zimmerman, Morgan Huber and Ethan Nagel.
Children who won prizes in a drawing at the Sons of the American Legion Easter Egg Hunt at Florence Park on Saturday morning, March 31 include, from left, Gannon Chicos, Cal Hansen, Lillian Hansen, Kayla Hansen, Elsie Hinkle, Trenton Bradshaw, Corbin Boehm, Leo Pingree, Benjamin Werner and Stella Meyer.
Mayor Jimmie-John King, seated, signed a proclamation last week declaring May as "Poppy Month" and Friday, May 25 as "Poppy Day" in Stewartville. The proclamation states that the Memorial Poppy, assembled by disabled veterans, pays respectful tribute to those killed in war and also helps living veterans and their families. Members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 160 distributed poppies at various locations on Friday, May 18 and Saturday, May 19. Proceeds from free-will donations will help Stewartville and area veterans, the Hastings Veterans Home, the Airman's Club at the Minneapolis Airport, and the Fischer House on the V.A. Campus in Minneapolis. Representatives of the Legion Auxiliary involved with the poppy project include, standing from left, Peggy Paulson and Wanda Prescher, president of the Legion Auxiliary.
Ross McInroy of Stewartville enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1952, serving as a radio operator, electronic countermeasures operator, forward right gunner and forward cabin boy. He holds a drawing completed by his son, Zane McInroy, principal of Bonner Elementary School, depicting the RB-36 bomber on which the elder McInroy flew during the 1950s, along with Mount Rushmore, so drawn because Ross McInroy was based at Ellsworth Air Force Base, Rapid City, S.D.
Mayor Jimmie-John King, left, shakes hands with Ryan Sabinish as the mayor announces to a large audience that Stewartville has been designated a "Purple Heart" city.
Lydia Fryer, left, and Aleksander Kosmala, eighth graders at Stewartville Middle School, read their patriotic essays to a large Memorial Day audience.
Attacker Hailey Lewis beats a KoMet defender to the ball and cuts inside for a charge on goal.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and Auxiliary Unit 164 celebrated American Education Week by delivering cupcakes to the staffs at all local schools last week, including the teachers and staff members at Bear Cave Intermediate School. Seated from left, Peggy and Richard Paulson, representing the Legion Auxiliary and the Legion, respectively, deliver cupcakes to Bear Cave fourth-grade teachers, standing from left, Regan Lonien, Leah Campbell and Mary Shafer.
Tammy Wuerflein, activities assistant at the Stewartville Care Center, fastens a patriotic scarf around the neck of Wayne Groteluschen, a resident of the Stewartvilla Apartments, one of a number of veterans who were honored at the Care Center on Friday afternoon, Nov. 9. Other veterans include, from left, Clem Snyder and James Bailey.
The Stewartville High School Girls Choir, under the direction of Nick Johnson, right, sang The Star-Spangled Banner at the Veterans Day ceremony at the Stewartville High School gym on Friday morning, Nov. 9. Singers include, from left, Emily Kruger, Hannah Brogan, Sophie Scruggs, Ellie Fryer, Raegan Eickhoff, Savannah Davis, Ayla Stecher and Grace Nelson.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and Auxiliary Unit 164 celebrated Veterans Day on Friday, Nov. 9 by serving cake and ice cream to the residents of the Stewartville Care Center, including many who served in the military. Those who helped included, front row, from left, Barb Ryan, Jerry Korstad, commander of the Stewartville American Legion; Wanda Prescher, president of the Legion Auxiliary; and Audrey Farnsworth. Back row, from left, Peggy Paulson, Diane Ramaker, Delores Peterson, Eugene Reed and Sheila Majerus.
Ashlynn Anderson, 2, of Stewartville, held by her mother Kristin, met the Easter Bunny at the Sons of the American Legion Easter Egg Hunt on March 31.
Hundreds of children and their parents attended the annual Sons of the American Legion Easter Egg Hunt at Florence Park in Stewartville on a beautiful spring morning on Saturday, April 20. At left, Kris Swanton holds her granddaughter, Harper Grant of Stewartville, 4 months old, during a meeting with the Easter Bunny before the hunt began. Children turned in their eggs for tickets used in a drawing for prizes, which included bicycles, scooters, basketballs, soccer balls, baskets and more.
Hundreds of children and their parents attended the annual Sons of the American Legion Easter Egg Hunt at Florence Park in Stewartville on a beautiful spring morning on Saturday, April 20. Here, Easton Boehm of Stewartville reaches to pick up a few eggs during the hunt. Children turned in their eggs for tickets used in a drawing for prizes, which included bicycles, scooters, basketballs, soccer balls, baskets and more.
Children 4 years old and younger, held by their mothers, won scooters at the Stewartville Sons of the American Legion Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday morning, April 20. The children include, from left, Harper Grant, Lyle Schneider, Kenzie Kramer and Jack Spangler.
Mayor Jimmie-John King, seated in center, signed a proclamation last week declaring May 24 and May 25 Poppy Days in the city of Stewartville. On those days, members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary, including, clockwise from left, Wanda Prescher, Audrey Farnsworth, Myrna Welter and Peggy Paulson, will collect donations for veterans and veterans programs at Fareway, the downtown Kwik Trip and Casey's North.
Wanda Prescher, president of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164, right, was installed as Minnesota District 1 Legion Auxiliary president at a ceremony at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 on Saturday, May 18. Audrey Farnsworth, treasurer of Legion Auxiliary Unit 164, left, was installed as Minnesota District 1 Legion Auxiliary treasurer.
Lance and Renee Garrick of Red Wing, standing in back and accompanied by a young family friend in front at left, present a $2,000 check to Bob Bardwell, founder of Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch, as part of the Military Tribute at Ironwood's new Chuckwagon facility during the Ranch's Memorial Bash on Saturday afternoon, May 25. Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch will use the money to help pay for its many Operation Welcome Home activities for America's veterans, Bardwell said. The Garricks presented the check on behalf of Hiawatha Valley Family Beyond the Yellow Ribbon.
Emily Lamb, left, and Emma Rowen, eighth graders at Stewartville Middle School, were the guest speakers at the annual Memorial Day ceremony at the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 on Monday, May 27. Both read patriotic essays they wrote as an optional assignment for the 2018-19 school year.
Legion shortstop Cade Looney makes the relay to first base for an easy out in Stewie's 7-6 win over Dodge Center.
General starting pitcher Nathan Johnson hurls the heat during Stewie's 7-6 win over Dodge Center.
Legion base runner Justin Lewis dives back safely on this Dodge Center pickoff attempt at first base during Stewie's 7-6 win.
Legion hitter Trenton Dahnert tags this strike during action in Stewie's 7-6 win over Dodge Center.
Children and their parents visited the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 in large numbers to enjoy a Halloween party on Thursday, Oct. 31. Here, Chloe Carlino, a fifth grader at BCI, dressed as Pennywise from the movie It, holds younger sister Harper Carlino, 6 months, dressed as a ladybug.
Children and their parents visited the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 in large numbers to enjoy a Halloween party on Thursday, Oct. 31. At lower left, Emma Landherr, 4, of Stewartville, a preschool Tiger Tots student, dresses as a unicorn. "Unicorns are a craze," said Crystal Landherr, Emma's mother. "She loves unicorns."
Children and their parents visited the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 in large numbers to enjoy a Halloween party on Thursday, Oct. 31. Here, Nora Fordahl, 9, a fourth grader at Bear Cave Intermediate School (BCI), poses as a zombie cheerleader for Rotten University.
Roger Barsness, quartermaster (treasurer) of the Stewartville Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8980, stands at the site where the VFW and Stewartville American Legion Post 164 will build a new memorial honoring local and area veterans.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 commemorated America's servicemen and women on Veterans Day at the Stewartville Care Center on Monday, Nov. 11. The Legion Auxiliary members served and cake and ice cream to Care Center residents, some of whom served in the military. Legion and Auxiliary members include, front row, from left, Gene Reed, Dean Ramaker, Ron Moore, Bill Hurley and Richard Paulson. Back row, from left, Roger Winch, Delores Peterson, Peggy Paulson, Diane Ramaker, Audrey Farnsworth, Wanda Prescher, president of the Legion Auxiliary; Barb Ryan and Gary Miller, past first district commander.
Christy Blade, a U.S. Army veteran and the publisher of the Rochester Post-Bulletin, speaks to a large audience of Stewartville High School-Middle School teachers and students at the annual Veterans Day ceremony at the SHS gym on Monday morning, Nov. 11.
Roger Peterson, past commander of the Stewartville Veterans of Foreign Wars Chapter 8980, left, and Roger Barsness, quartermaster (trreasurer) of the VFW, center, accept a $1,000 check from Paul Bonnerup of the Stewartville Lions Club at the Lions Club's monthly meeting on Thursday, Nov. 21. The money will help pay for the new VFW Veterans Memorial planned to be built near the south entrance to Stewartville.
Troy Helget, commander of Stewartville VFW Post 8980, with American Legion member Dean Ramaker looking on, places a flag at the grave of Henry Gathje, a private in the U.S. Army during World War II, on May 22.
Troy Helget, commander of Stewartville VFW Post 8980, with American Legion member Dean Ramaker looking on, places a flag at the grave of Henry Gathje, a private in the U.S. Army during World War II, on May 22.
John Jordan of Griffin Construction of Chatfield, left, talks with Roger Winch of the Stewartville Veterans of Foreign Wars at the site of the planned VFW Veterans Memorial near the south entrance to the city on Wednesday afternoon, June 17. Jordan began grading the site last week. An anonymous donor has offered a matching, dollar-for-dollar donation of up to $50,000 through the end of 2020 to help pay for the new Memorial.
ONB Bank of Stewartville celebrated its grand opening last week by writing a $5,000 check to help pay for the new VFW Veterans Memorial Park to be built near the city's south entrance. From left, ONB representatives Ed Hruska, business development officer; Josh Buckmeier, vice president and commercial lender; Brad Becker, president and CEO; and Ann Lutteke, vice president and branch manager, present the check to Roger Peterson, commander of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and an active member of the VFW, third from right; Roger Barsness, quartermaster (treasurer) of the VFW, second from right; and Ed Krusemark, a member of the VFW and the Veterans Memorial Park Committee.
As of last week, representatives of the Stewartville VFW Prescher-Kumm Post 8980 and the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 had raised about $130,000 to help pay for the new $300,000 Veterans Memorial Park to be built near Stewartville's south entrance. Heather Holmes, an employee of Community Economic Development Associates (CEDA), and a former diesel mechanic for the Army National Guard helping the VFW raise funds for the park, standing at right, said the $130,000 includes $80,000 in contributions from individuals, businesses and organizations; $25,000 to $30,000 in in-kind support; and $22,000 to $23,000 thanks to a $50,000 individual donation that will match contributions through the end of 2020. Others helping with the fundraising include, from left, the three Rogers: Roger Winch of the Stewartville VFW, Roger Barsness, quartermaster (treasurer) of the VFW; and Roger Peterson, Legion commander and VFW member.
Jim Parry, REACH coordinator at Stewartville High School-Middle School, right, shares a grave marker inscribed with the name of World War I veteran Charles Lenton with Roger Peterson, commander of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164. Parry found the marker while using his metal detector at Bear Cave Park. In the inset photo above left, Charles
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 celebrated American Education Week last week by delivering Rice Krispie bars, granola bars and chocolate chip cookies, all individually wrapped, to all four Stewartville schools, including Bear Cave Intermediate School, above, Bonner Elementary School, the Central Education Center and Stewartville High School and Middle School. From far left, Diane Ramaker and Peggy Paulson of the Legion Auxiiary present the treats to socially distanced educators, from left, Courtney Fakler, Rose Steinman and Joyce Jorde. "This is definitely the year to say thank you to our teachers for going the extra mile," Paulson said.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 saluted the flag at a virtual Veterans Day ceremony at the Stewartville High School gym on Tuesday evening, Nov. 10. Legion members in the foreground, from left, include Ron Moore, Commander Roger Peterson, Dave Nystuen and Randy Welter.
Visiting dignitaries installed new 2021-22 officers for the Stewartville American Legion Ivan Stringer Post 164 on Monday evening, May 17. The officers include, front row, from left, Allen Santema, chaplain; Wayne Bamlet, finance officer; Ron Moore, incoming commander, accepting the gavel from Roger Peterson, outgoing commander; and Richard Paulson, historian. Visiting officers who presided at the installation include, back row, from left, Dale Wellik, first district commander; Mark Maloney, Area 1 vice commander; Myron Ehrich, first district membership; and Gary Miller, past district commander; along with Wes Alrick, judge advocate, and Roger Barsness, adjutant for the local Legion. Other 2021-22 Legion officers missing from the photo include Troy Helget, first vice commander; Kristin Anderson, second vice commander; George Beach, service officer; and Dean Ramaker, sergeant-at-arms.
Mayor Jimmie-John King, left, will be a featured speaker at the annual Memorial Day ceremony at Woodlawn Cemetery on Monday morning, May 31. Roger Peterson, outgoing commander of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and an active member of the Stewartville Prescher-Kumm Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 8980, will be the master of ceremonies for the event to honor U.S. veterans who have served their country, especially those who have paid the ultimate price for freedom. The gravestone is for Harold "Harry" Prescher, for whom the Stewartville VFW is named. On the opposite side, the gravestone is inscribed, "In Loving Memory of Our Son, Harold "Harry" Prescher, 1920-1942. World War II, U.S. Navy, USS Houston."
To honor America's veterans, members of the Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 will distribute poppies in exchange for donations at Stewartville's two Kwik Trip stores, two Casey's stores and Fareway on Friday, May 28, National Poppy Day; and Saturday, May 29. Proceeds from the distribution will pay for veterans programs. Legion Auxiliary members who will help with the distribution include, seated from left, Peggy Paulson, first vice president; Wanda Prescher, president; and Delores Peterson, member. In back, from left, are Laurel Jacobs, city data clerk, and Cheryl Roeder, city clerk and a member of the Legion Auxiliary, who welcomed the Legion Auxiliary members to City Hall last week. "The memorial poppy, assembled by disabled veterans, pays respectful tribute to those killed in war, and also benefits living veterans and their families," says the city proclamation placed on the desk, front and center. The proclamation declares May 2021 Poppy Month in the city of Stewartville.
Hannah Meyerhofer, poppy princess, carries flowers to a gravesite at Woodlawn Cemetery during Stewartville's annual Memorial Day ceremony.
Mya Sistad, a senior at Stewartville High School, plays taps at St. Bernard's Catholic Church cemetery on Memorial Day, Monday, May 31. Isabelle Lukes, a sophomore musician not pictured, also played taps.
Workers are making steady progress on the new Veterans Memorial Park near Stewartville's south entrance. Volunteer workers, such as those pictured above, have installed trusses for the octagon picnic shelter and are working on the building's roof.
Workers continue to make steady progress on the new Veterans Memorial Park under construction near Stewartville's south entrance. The Stewartville Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 8980, with help from the Stewartville American Legion Post 164, is still raising money for the monument to be placed at the park. When the project began, VFW and Legion leaders estimated it would cost $300,000 to build the Memorial Park.
Brecken Herrick, 1, left, wore a cow costume and his brother Tucker, 4,was a cowboy at the Hall-O-Weenie kids party on Sunday, Oct. 31. Kids who attended enjoyed hot dogs, chips, a drink and a treat bag. Tucker is a preschooler at the Central Education Center.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 salute the flag while standing at attention during the playing of the National Anthem at the annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Stewartville High School gym on Thursday, Nov. 11. Legion members, from left, include Dave Nystuen, Commander Ron Moore and Bill Hurley. Standing from left in back are Mayor Jimmie-John King and Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator, guest speakers at the ceremony.
Members of Stewartville American Legion Auxiliary Unit 164 delivered Keebler cookie snacks and chocolate chip granola bars to four Stewartville school buildings to celebrate American Education Week last week. At Bear Cave Intermediate School (BCI), Auxiliary members Peggy Paulson, center; and Diane Ramaker, second from right, distributed the treats to, from far left, Rose Steinman, administrative assistant at BCI; Courtney Fakler, school social worker; and Joyce Jorde, administrative assistant, far right. Paulson and Ramaker also delivered the treats to Stewartville High School-Middle School, Bonner Elementary School and the Central Education Center.
Carol Youdas, left, and Russ Hayes took the Freedom Honor Flight from La Crosse, Wis. to Washington D.C. Youdas was Hayes' guardian.
Roger Peterson, commander of the Stewartville Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 8980 for six years, stands near the restroom and octagon picnic shelter that will be part of the VFW's Veterans Memorial Park near Stewartville's south entrance. "We're doing this to thank our veterans for their serivce to our country," he said.
