This is a Blog site created by Bob Reed (in Florida) for folks who live--or used to live--in Marcus, Iowa. Its purpose is to exchange notes, news, remembrances, and thoughts about life in and about Marcus, or news about one's family, friends or acquaintances.
The Marcus Fair Board is selling raffle tickets for a chance to win a Weber Grill valued at over $400. Chances are 1 for $5 or 3 for $10. The grill will be available for viewing at the home basketball game on January 8th. Proceeds will go toward entertainment and expenses of the 2010 Marcus Fair. Fair Board members selling tickets will be on hand that evening. Thanks-Paul
Chuck Beaton has just notified us through email that the Marcus Picnic will be held on Saturday, February 13, 2010, at the Hometown Buffet, 1312 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ. Note the new day, SATURDAY. It will be a buffet at noon.
So why was the word Sucram used? as a joke or what? to the person that told me to sober up before posting i guess you must be perfect in everything then?
Well I am better than those two middle aged Marcus ladies that took some pictures with a drunk ISU student in Ames this fall and took advantage of that poor drunk student. Everyone around town knows who these two are.
Marcus Dude: Did you notice that sucram happens to be Marcus spelled backwards?
To the previous poster: Why would you post a remark like that? Seems to have nothing to do with the person's inquiry about sucram. You just throw it out there, and and then you coward behind an anonymous post. C'mon and show a little class. Paul
Yes I know that sucram is Marcus spelled backwards. I remember when that word was used back in the early 60's.(I think before your time PAUL.) I would really like to know why is it was used. As a joke or something else.
Just wondering if the Fair Board would consider creating a Marcus Fair Facebook page. It would give you a chance to offer updates about the fair, a place to post photos, field questions, promote specific events, create a buzz for the upcoming 75th Marcus Fair and do some free advertising and public relations. Let people know you're getting it started in the news and at this site, and you'd probably quickly get a friends group behind you. A 4-H group might take it on as a project so that it wouldn't be a burden and it would be a way to get younger people involved.
Another idea: Set up a spot in one of the quonset huts for people to bring in and display their old memorabilia of the Marcus Fair, including photos from the past. Take video (flip cameras are great and so easy to use) of Marcus's older residents telling their stories about their memories of the Marcus Fair and let them run on a video screen at the display. These "Memory Captures" would be a great addition to the Fair's archives and could be housed at the Marcus Historical Society during the rest of the year. Again, this would be an awesome 4-H project or a great communications project for the high school's newspaper staff. These video clips could also be used on your Facebook site!
Julie, I just read your comment wondering if broasted chicken could be found outside of Iowa. The answer is yes. We found it in Edgewater, Colorado. The restaurant was called Okoboji Inn. The owner wasn't from Iowa but if I remember correctly, he visited a relative in Iowa in the summertime. Nancy Iversen
Facebook or MySpace; What would the public prefer? I attended a session about this at the State Fair Convention this past December. I was leaning toward MySpace because I feel it has a stronger orientation toward entertainment and has more features that support music. Our board hopes to tackle this yet this winter, but we need to work on a couple of grants for other projects first. No matter what media site we end up with, only productive and positive "friends" will be able to interact with the site. It will not be a site for people to bitch and complain, or to take cheap shots at other people. (Much like we've seen on this blog the last few months!) To monitor that, I feel a Fair Board member will need to be responsible.
In the mean time we are close to adding a couple of slide show presentations to the existing Marcus Fair link. The New York times video clip was added last fall. Other updates will be added in the next couple of months.(Sometimes progress is slow, but it is still progress.)
Currently the Marcus Historical Society mantains a booth at the Marcus Fair that would be a great place to share and display old Marcus Fair photos or other video memorabilia. The booth is manned, so someone can keep an eye on those treasures.
We are still selling tickets on the grill. Contact Clay Leavitt at Marcus Lumber if interested in purchasing. Weather postponements and delays have hampered our opportunities at selling chances, so we have not drawn for it yet. Thanks, Paul Wilkens
We have added numerous photos to the Marcus Fair link. They will appear on the bottom of the opening page. 2008 photos are in a format that allows the viewer to view each photo individually. 2009 is a slide show presentation. (Considering all the snow we have, it's nice to see green leaves, grass, and people enjoying the summer!) Thanks Paul
Hats off to you and your fair board for all of the great things you have done and for your always looking for ways to enhance and improve on all things related to the fair! Love the idea of bringing the Marcus Fair to FACEBOOK BTW!!!!
Keep up the great job and tell the fair board members thanks as well for making the Marcus Fair such a wonderful fair!
All should be aware that the new Fair Board President is Kristi Mason- one of our local veterinarians. She will do an awesome job and it frees me up to tackle some other projects with the board.-Paul
Great job, Paul. The fair photos look good. I'd love to see the fair on Facebook too. More "oldies" and businesses hang their hat there -- but whatever works!
I heard Bill Miller passed away last night. Very sorry to hear this. My prayers are with his brother Brian and the families affected. Haven't seen Bill in a while but he was always fun to talk to. Just an all around nice person. My condolences.
A few comments back someone was asking about Lee Rainboth. I found a quote in a USA today article:
"Joe Rainboth of Spearfish, S.D., knows that same relief.
Rainboth's family heard from his brother, Lee Rainboth, who lives in the mountain village of Mizak, about 50 miles southwest of Port-au-Prince. About six hours after the quake hit, Lee Rainboth was able to use a satellite phone for a couple of minutes to contact the brothers' parents in Iowa and let them know he was OK, Joe Rainboth said.
I have great memories from my childhood of Marcus. Good memories: Mabel's candy counter, Marland Theatre, swimming pool, locust street neighbors, elementary school teachers;Miss Baker, Mrs McIntosh, Mr Lens, Mr Thrash, and Mr McCauley. The park was the best; baseball games, Father O'Rielly and his dog Rasputen. Bad memories: I was scared of Connie Meads big white dog Jackson. I remember a boy falling off the high dive at the swimming pool and landing on the cement, Robbie Schlenger got his 2 front teeth knocked out with a baseball bat standing in line at recess. Very bad memories; being slapped on the face at age 5 while attending morning mass in 1'st grade at Holy Name School by Sister Mary Brian Joseph.
Dennis, Gary and I were in the same grade. He is the boy I remember having the accident at the swimming pool. Sure glad he recovered from such a serious accident. Cindy Cannon
Cindy, not so sure Gary didn't tie his wheel chair to Connie's dog Jackson and get a ride around the block. We did things like that for fun on the East Side of the highway!
Friends, family and Marcus ex-pats: I noticed that some blog readers have asked about the status of my brother, Lee Rainboth.
Yes, Lee is currently in Haiti and survived the recent 7.0 magnitude earthquake. He has been living in Haiti for the past 3-plus years and was in the process of building a permanent home there when the quake hit.
Lee's home in Haiti was destroyed, along with the homes of countless others in the community. In the days since the earthquake, everyone in his community has been sleeping outside, on the ground, under improvised rope and tarp shelters. The houses that are still standing are structurally unsafe to live in.
Where Lee lives is about 50 miles southwest of the capital city of Port-au-Prince, which is where all of the media images and coverage have been coming from.
Although it has not been covered in the U.S. national media, his community of Mizak has been hit hard. A benefit relief fund has been established for Lee and the area of Mizak.
More info about his efforts in Haiti and options to contribute to the relief fund for his area are located at www.leesdreamforhaiti.com.
Thank you all for your caring and support of the people of Haiti and my brother, Lee.
Thank you, Joe, for letting us know. Like so many, I've admired Lee's efforts and positive spirit from afar. This strengthens my own resolve to help. Were there others from Marcus planning to visit Haiti, or who also went in the past?
To the person who wrote memories of Marcus -- they ring so true -- the good and the bad.
Lee Rainboth is an American, living in Mizak – a rural, mountainside community in Haiti.
Lee has a dream. A dream to use his own God-given talents to help improve the lives of others.
Lee’s dream is to create opportunities for young adults in some of the most neglected areas of the world. To use art, music and creativity to inspire young men and women to have pride in their own communities. To contribute to the development of those communities. And to mobilize artists worldwide to redefine the possibilities of art to make life more beautiful for all.
With plans to build his own home, establish a Hatian school for the fine arts and implement community involvement programs in Mizak, Lee’s dream was well on its way to becoming a reality.
Then, on January 12, a violent earthquake shook the island.
The 7.0 magnitude quake made instant headlines around the world – it was the worst to hit the region in more than 200 years. Human lives have been lost. Families torn apart. Homes and buildings destroyed.
In late December of 2009, Lee had begun the construction of his own permanent home in Mizak, Haiti. He had employed the talents and labors of local suppliers and contractors. From his home, he planned to launch his dream and begin to inspire hope in the community and beyond.
The earthquake changed all of that.
Lee’s house, along with much of his dream, now lies in ruin. His home is now cracked and crumbling – concrete bricks and metal supports that are no longer able to provide him protection and shelter. He is not alone – many homes in surrounding areas are damaged or destroyed. Lee and the rest of the community have been sleeping outside, on the ground – under improvised tent shelters – since the quake hit.
This natural disaster has wreaked havoc on the entire country of Haiti and relief workers from around the world are on their way to help where able.
As Lee’s family and friends, we struggle to wrap our heads around this catastrophic situation that has struck Haiti and its people. We want to help Lee and the achievement of his dream - to help the Hatians whose way of life has been so suddenly upturned.
This site is about helping Lee achieve that dream.
With roads and transportation systems destroyed, there is currently no feasible way to get food, water, supplies or equipment to Lee in the mountain community of Mizak.
In the coming weeks, he will, however have access for his family to wire money to him in Jacmel, the nearest developed city. That money will be used to rebuild his home and the homes of others in the community. It will be used to help meet the community’s basic needs of water, food and shelter.
For those of us that want to help, this page is a way to be able to send financial support directly to Lee. With our support, Lee will be able to not only rebuild his home, but help to rebuild the entire community of Mizak and help inspire positive change in the young adults in the area. They are ultimately the ones who will impact their nation.
Hi, Doris Henry here, wife of Rev. Roger Henry. We served in Marcus from '97 to '03 at Grace United Methodist and are currently serving in Manchester. Roger and I had the pleasure of being able to visit with Margaret Dorr this morning at her new home in Cedar Rapids. Her unit is very nice, and while there are still a few things to be done, it is very homey and charming. I look forward to our next visit and hopefully taking her out to lunch. While I'm sure the move was strenuous, she looked wonderful. Thanks for the update concerning Lee. Roger had a free will offering taken for him during our Sunday services, it's good to know where we need to send it. Our prayers join yours for him and all those who are suffering. We feel very blessed to have been a part of the Marcus community, it was a wonderful 6 years. God Bless
Praying for the Bill Miller family tonight and tomorrow as Marcus is saying a temporary goodbye to a great guy.
Bill had the most amazing laugh and kind heart that one could imagine. Growing up in the Peace Lutheran Church I will never forget all of the countless Sundays Bill was a greeter and/or usher at church and he always made you feel welcomed.
Last great visit I had with Bill was while he was teaching at Granville Spalding. He gave me a tour of the facilities for old times sake and we had a delightful time catching up.
I will miss him and am praying for his wife, kids, grandkids, his wonderful brothers and their families, and for his Uncle Walt.
May God's grace be showered upon all of you during the funeral tomorrow and in the coming days.
Dog Found/Dropped off at our house a mile N of Marcus. Appears to be a female viszla, not full grown. If anyone knows who's dog this might be or interested in taking, please call 712-261-0070.
If you're stuck inside due to nasty weather, enjoy these little tidbits. Maybe you can even write down some more here! Think Spring!
If you're proud that your region makes the national news at least 96 times each year because it's the hottest or the coldest spot in the nation, you might live in Spencer, Iowa.
If your dad's suntan stops at a line curving around the middle of his forehead, you might farm in Carroll, Iowa.
If you have worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you might live in Spirit Lake, Iowa.
If your town has an equal number of bars and churches, you might live in Maple River, Iowa.
If you have had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you might live in Anthon, Iowa.
YOU KNOW YOU ARE A TRUE Iowan WHEN 'Vacation' means going east or west on I-80 for the weekend or ...
If you measure distance in hours, you might live anywhere in Iowa.
If you know several people who have hit a deer more than once, you might live in Sac City, Iowa.
If you often switch from 'Heat' to 'A/C' in the same day and back again, you might live in Denison, Iowa.
If you can drive 65 mph through two feet of snow during a raging blizzard, without flinching, you might live Mapleton, Iowa.
If you see people wearing camouflage at social events (including weddings), you might live in Battle Creek, Iowa.
If you install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked, you might live in Danbury, Iowa.
If you carry jumper cables in your car, and your girlfriend knows how to use them, you might live in Correctionville, Iowa.
If you design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit, you might live in MARCUS, Iowa.
If driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow, you might live in Ida Grove, Iowa.
If you know all four seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter and road construction, you might live in Carroll, Iowa.
If your idea of creative landscaping is a statue of a deer next to your blue spruce, you might live in Schleswig, Iowa.
If you were unaware that there is a legal drinking age, you might live in Iowa City, Iowa.
If Going Down South means Missouri , you might live in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
If your neighbor throws a party to celebrate his new pole shed, you might live in Charter Oak, Iowa.
If your idea of going out to eat is a tail gate party every Saturday, you definitely live in Iowa!
If you have more miles on your snow blower than your car, you might live in Sioux City, Iowa.
If you findzero degrees to be 'a little chilly', you might live in Washta, Iowa.
If you laughed just a bit, but not too much, you have a great sense of humor -- and you obviously are a true blue Iowan.
Those pictures were taken right on highway 143 going thru Marcus. The pictures showed some of the show but there were drifts 10 ro 12 feet high is other areas of town.
This weekend RAGBRAI announces its route across Iowa. Does anyone know if it's going through Marcus? I heard it'll start in northwest Iowa ... anyone have the dirt?
Read the article below my comments re RAGBRAI and trust you don't mind my sharing a few personal thoughts re my experience with the first RAGBRAI in 1973 out of SIOUX CITY!!!
The article is in tonight's Sioux City Journal fyi. If it starts in Sioux City it most likely will go by the Hoefling corner south of town if even that close or through Quimby and such like it did back in 1973.
BTW, I rode in the very first RAGBRAI in 1973 for just the first day only on an old-sorry 10 speed or such that wasn't much of a bike. There were only 300 or so of us on that inagural ride out of Sioux City. Needless to say riding from Sioux City to Storm Lake with all of those hills to cover out of Sioux City thru Lawton and then again through Quimby made me never look at that area quite the same again. My dad and mom took me to Sioux City and dropped me off and I was never so glad to see my brothers Karl and Kurt later that day in Storm Lake and say goodbye to RAGBRAI.......that was the longest day of my life and looking back I sure wished my parents had given me something else for a birthday present......the connection to the first RAGBRAI as you will note in the article below was that the first day was on AUGUST 26....you guessed it as my birthday is on August 26 thus at the age of 15 your's truly made RAGBRAI histoy on the exact day of my birthday!
Philip Melvin Dorr
P.S. Read next post for the SCJ article re RAGBRAI.
Will Sioux City be RAGBRAI launch point? StoryDiscussionBy Bret Hayworth - bhayworth@siouxcityjournal.com | Posted: Saturday, January 30, 2010 12:00 am | Loading…
Font Size:Default font sizeLarger font size.Northwest Iowa cities frequent RAGBRAI kickoff spots The Des Moines Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa has begun in Northwest Iowa (from Onawa north) for 22 of the 37 rides.
The list includes Sioux City five times, most recently in 2001; Onawa, five times, most recently in 2004; Hawarden, three times, most recently in 1998; Sioux Center, three times, most recently in 2002; Rock Rapids, three times, most recently in 2007; Le Mars, once, in 2005; Sergeant Bluff, once, in 2006; and Akron, once, in 1982. SIOUX CITY -- "We're due."
That's Aran Rush succinct take on Sioux City's eligibility as launch point for the RAGBRAI bicycle tour in July.
Rush, Sioux City Convention Center and Tourism Bureau executive director, is cautiously optimistic that good news will come this evening, when the overnight cities are announced for the 2010 Des Moines Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa.
The rolling party on wheels, which could draw as many as 9,000 daily riders, typically covers about 500 miles, traversing Iowa from west to east. Sioux City makes for a defensible starting point in 2010, Rush said, since the city has done well in previously hosting the bicyclists, family members and support crews.
Rush said he's been pitching Sioux City since the 2009 RAGBRAI ended, adding the bid committee members would love to change their title to host committee. He said RAGBRAI officials have come to town, seen the new hotels that have opened and been impressed with Historic Fourth Street's entertainment options.
"When I say they were impressed, they really couldn't stop talking about it," Rush said.
The initial RAGBRAI was a far less organized affair in 1973, when Sioux City was the beginning point on Aug. 26 and about 115 people completed the full ride. Sioux City since has been the opening city four times, in 1978, 1988, 1993 and 2001.
Doug Albrecht, owner of Albrecht Cycle Shop in Sioux City, said local cyclists have been betting whether the opening city spot this year would go to Sioux City or to Le Mars, in the next county to the north.
"We've got a map down here that shows every RAGBRAI (route). According to the past, they like to spread it around the area," Albrecht said.
"I thought it'd be here last year, to be honest. We feel good that it's going to be here. I'll be shocked if it isn't."
Albrecht said the 2001 host city experience was a great success, with concerts and other fun events, along with the boost to his store's business.
"I never heard anything bad about it," he said.
The RAGBRAI XXXVIII crush would stay overnight Saturday, July 24, then depart July 25 for a ride ending near the Mississippi River on July 31.
The RAGBRAI host cities will be announced at 8 p.m. today.
Gray Matters: A Friend from Long Ago Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Margaret Dorr A hometown friend recently encouraged me to write again about some of our earlier residents. She said she had just visited the Reed Center and that always made her nostalgic for some of the special people who had made growing up in our little town so extraordinary. She then mentioned Dora Shefstad. I remember Dora well so writing about her will be a real pleasure. Her husband, Wilbur, was a descendant of I.M. Jackson who was Marcus' very first citizen. In contrast, his wife, born Dora Hahn, was a much more recent arrival. She had been born in Germany. When she was very small her father was called into the army in WW I. During his time of service his young wife died leaving Dora and her two brothers virtual orphans. She was sent from their rural village near Darmstadt to live with an aunt in Berlin. Following the war her father remarried but she remained with her aunt. Circumstances eventually became so dire in the capital that they moved to Manheim to live with another relative.
In a rare somber moment Dora described those difficult times. I doubt if any of us can recall being hungry because there was absolutely no food to eat, but that was a very real part of her childhood. As she explained, Germany is too small to produce enough food for its population so it had always imported food. That was impossible during the war and, though there
was some food available afterward, they had no money with which to buy it.
Dora's mood brightened as she recalled her school days while living in Mannheim. She loved learning, but beyond that the poorest children were sent to live with families in the Black Forest during the summers. There she lived with a kind family who gave her plenty to eat and chores, much easier than she was used to, such as baby-sitting or herding cattle in the
woods with another youngster. Flax was the farmer's main crop, so after it had been processed and woven into fabric it afforded another pleasant task for the children. They had to spread these lengths of linen out on the
grass and sprinkle them as they had to be kept damp for the sun to properly
bleach them.
When these Schwarzwald summers came to an end, conditions worsened. Finally, in what seemed almost a godsend, her late mother's sister sent money so at age fourteen she could accompany two older cousins to America.
Dora smiled as she told me of their coming by steerage which is supposedly the poorest way to travel. But it was such an improvement over the way she had lived that it seemed almost luxurious to her. She vividly remembered
that she had tasted her first ice cream on that trip.
In the US she worked out her fare and continued working for relatives until she met Wilbur. They were married in 1949. After farming for some years they started Shefstad's Shoe and Canvas Repair Shop and in 1959 they moved into the house at 303 N. Elm where they lived our their lives surrounded by a most spectacular flower garden. Its rival at this time could be that of master gardener Greg Geerdes in that very same block.
(There must be something in the soil there on North Elm)!
Dora rarely spoke ill of anyone, but she once admitted to being a bit annoyed with people who complained about things in the US. One time she put it this way, " I came with nothing and the US didn't ask me to come. But when I came they took me in and gave me a whole new lease on life. I am eternally grateful."
I hope you have enjoyed my recollections of this special lady as much as I have enjoyed recalling them, thanks to my friend's gentle urging.
On a summer day in the early 1970's some kids were on a taller downtown building throwing water balloons at cars as they drove by on Main Street. Does anyone remember who they were and did they ever get caught ??
In a November blog someone posted an inquiry about someone streaking. I remember it to be Willis C. running butt naked from the fairgrounds the the ball field and to the swimming pool parking lot where Tony Schreier picked him up in his (i believe) 1970 Cuda.
Well according the laws of supply and demand, if the demand is higher than the supply prices go up. Therefore I can only assume there is more demand for houses in Marcus than there is a good supply of homes.
Taxes: There is only one thing that raises your property taxes, SPENDING. The mayor and council have no continence when it comes to spending free money (yours) High taxes = no growth, there hasn't been a new house built in Marcus for years while other town are popping them up like Dandelions.
A successful grant writing effort by the Marcus Fire Dept. has yielded a nice award from the FEMA-Assistance to Fire Fighters Grant program. $32, 437 has been awarded for equipment purchases. The local match will be $1,707. A majority of the money will be used to purchase a new set of Hydraulic of Rescue Tools (Jaws of Life) which is an essential tool for the extrication of victims from motor vehicle accidents. The new tools will be more user friendly and replace the original tools that are nearly 30 years old. We will also be purchasing a Thermal Imagery Camera. The camera will aid Fire Fighters in finding hot spots as well as victims of fires. Our Department is very pleased with this award and is looking forward to putting this new equipment into service.
Since you are a person of knowledge about Marcuses past. I was wondering if you know anything about Leopold or Elizabeth Franck? Or Margaret or Henry Frank? Thanks
There is a short piece about Leopold Franck in the 1971 Marcus Centennial History Book and the same article is reprinted in the 1996 QQC Book with two pictures added. I don't know how to do it but I'm sure someone could scan the article on the Blog for you. Good luck! Margaret Dorr
"Yes he did and the trend isn't over!" I hope the readers didn't take this as a bad comment twards Neal or the Marcus community, Neal is a great person and I'm sure all those living in Marcus will miss him as thier law enforcement officer. It's just that with Tim Galles leaving his city job last year, Randy Weflen getting pink slipped, and Neal Galles leaving his Chief of Police position with the city, who's next??? Does Marcus have trouble with it's leadership? Are the salaries adequate? With the talk about high taxes it shouldn't be wages? Has anyone confronted these people to see where the problem lies?
How can anyone build a house in Marcus with the high taxes and the high price for the lots? Has the Lumber Yard ever thought about building a spec home?
QUOTE "How can anyone build a house in Marcus with the high taxes and the high price for the lots? Has the Lumber Yard ever thought about building a spec home?"
I always thought it was the Marcus Lumber Yard's job to provide the best and most reasonably priced raw materials to build homes but I never knew that they were to become a SPEC HOME BUILDER as well. Isn't that what building contractors and real estate developers are suppose to do and then call the local lumber yard to order the materials?
The Marcus City Council meets at the same time and place every month. Meetings are open to the public and there are always plenty of seats available. You'd be surprised how differently they follow their "agenda" when the people they represent are present. So let's get involved and hold them accountable if that's what they need.
It's not the Lumber Yards responsibility to build a spec home, but I think the last home to be built in Marcus was a spec home built by the Cherokee Lumber yard
Just think back over the years of all the great City Employees that have come an gone. Some left because of the Mayor and some because of the City Council
Copy and paste this link to YouTube video of an East Coast weatherman. I thought you tough Midwest types would get a kick out it. What's the fuss all about? Right?
Hi: Just happened to come across this site and wondered how many of you "old-timers" knew my parents. My mother was Marie Rabel daughter of George and Alma Rabel. Before moving into town in the early 50's, they farmed between Marcus and Remsen. My dad was Glenn Metcalf, son of Chels and Lottie Metcalf. Chels was a barber in Marcus for many years. Lottie's maiden name was Grauer... I believe there all a lot of her distant relatives around town today. Both of my parents attended Marcus High School and graduated (I believe) in the late 1930's. Anyway, it would be fun to hear from anyone who knew them. Thanks! Bob Metcalf
I believe there was a major slowdown on homebuilding across the country(including NW Iowa) this past year. I know of one new home scheduled to be built in Marcus in 2010 so far and as far as taxes ask some of your friends who live in comprible homes in other communities and you will see Marcus(Cherokee county) isn't out of line.
I know some contractors have built spec homes in the past only to sit on them for a year and loose money in the long run. It's better tohave the home built to thte new owners specs and colors. Then there are no extra expenses to change things after it's built.
Its truely hard to believe all of the negative comments from whomever. If you want your community to prosper, you have to go out and find bussiness to come to your town. Being negative about the city council or mayor is terribe. Why don't you run and see what you can do. They are all human. The good Lord never put any perfect people on this earth. Was always told some one being successful makes another jealous!! Should not have any of that. We are all capable of being successful, its just how much effort you want to put into it.
No Kurt it's only sad if you let it bring you down. Marcus is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Those people that complain are still here! Otherwise they'd just move on and forget about this 'terrible place'. (Must not really be that bad.) Forget about the negative whinners that lash out and then hide behind the annonymity of this blog. Complaining in this forum isn't going to make them happier. They're going to complain no matter where they live.
Marcus IS a great place to live!
(Although I could use 85*, some green grass, and a glass of lemonade about now.)
I agree Marcus is a great place to live. Our community is always helping out. Weather it is a family struggling or a fire in the community or just someone needing help with mowing there lawn or shoveling snow. Kristi
RE your misguided quote below I took it upon myself to go through the public records at the city hall so the record could be set straight and the likes of you will either get your facts straight before you go spouting off or just maybe realize how petty and borish your rants really are and find another blog to waste your time on. Read "BELOW" your quote for the facts and hope you will refrain from continuing to tear our great community down on this wonderful PUBLIC BLOG that was intended for fun stuff about Marcus and not the likes of you to take shots at the many hard working people that make up our wonderful community we call MARCUS.
QUOTE "Taxes: There is only one thing that raises your property taxes, SPENDING. The mayor and council have no continence when it comes to spending free money (yours) High taxes = no growth, there hasn't been a new house built in Marcus for years while other town are popping them up like Dandelions."
ALL NEW BUILDING PERMITS on file at the city hall and open for public viewing:
2004 Verizon Wireless "NEW TOWER" $120,000 Marcus Lumber "NEW BUILDING" Costs lots of money. BOB CAVE "NEW HOUSE"
2005 Jack Clarkson "NEW HOUSE" Joel Haveman " NEW HOUSE"
2006 Wes Tel "TOWER" $48,000 Valley Bank "NEW BANK BLDG" $200,000
2007 Steve Puhrman "NEW HOUSE" Mike Schwarz "NEW HOUSE" Ron Rosewall "NEW HOUSE" 1st COOP "Storage Bin" $756,000 John Bentz "NEW HOUSE" GeriLynn Specht "NEW HOUSE" Harold Klassen "NEW HOUSE" Adam Freders "NEW BLDG for BUSINESS" Hometown Guest House $800,000
2008 Marcus Fair "NEW BLDG" Hog Slats "New Bldg" $175,000 1st COOP "NEW TOWER DRYER" $424,000
2009 Mike's Construction "NEW BUILDING"
To all of this I say AWESOME JOB MARCUS and our leadership. Keep up the great job and let's give ourselves a pat on the back for making our town one of the neat success stories in rural Iowa!
P.S. That is NINE (9) NEW HOUSES built in our wonderful community "MARCUS" in the last FIVE (5) years. Just wanting to keep it real so lies and false gossip don't perpetuate themself on here and in our community and then take on a life of their own thus hurting those who have given so much of their time and energy to see our community prosper.
I have been reading past months of comments, and I have to say, I am totally amused. I agree totally with anonymous. Thank you for your posts. What you are stating is the truth. For all you "Marcusites" that post on here, you don't know the "other" side of the people of Marcus. If you aren't a "Dorr, "Schmillen", Downs", "Sand", etc. or if you don't have money, you don't mean anything to Marcus. It's been that way for years. All you Marcus "high society", you know it's true. I grew up in Marcus and had a wonderful childhood there. But since then, it's gone to hell in a hand basket. I was home visiting my parents at Christmas time and couldn't believe how terrible the city streets were. We just about got whip lash just trying to drive down the ice covered streets that haven't been plowed correctly. We drove thru Remsen and their streets were perfectly fine. I will also remain anonymous on this page because my parents still reside in Marcus, and whether or not you "Marcus high society" believe it, there will be repercussions for MY actions on my parents. Marcus is all politics. All about your name, and who you come from. Sad.
I believe it's all about how one views life! Is your cup half full or half empty? Some will complain to make themselves feel good and others will get up and do something about it. I think it has nothing to do if one has money or not, or have the right last name. I moved to Marcus 23 years ago after returning from the military and have chosen to do things to make my life and the lives of those around me better. I had no family or friends from Marcus. We just choose the small town because we felt safe and secure here and felt we could be a part of a growing community. Years later we have many friends from all walks of life. Some who are positive and look at the glass as half full, and others who see it as half empty and complain about things often. We all make choices and have to live with them. Choose wisely!
It's not about choosing to have your cup "half full" or "half empty". It's the truth. I lived it. I was discriminated against because of my name, as well as several others in town. I personally know people who live in Marcus now, that have pulled stunts, (such as driving DRUNK all over town and tearing up town streets) and got away with it, because their Daddy runs a successful business in town, and happened to sit on the City Council. It's small town nonsense. It's Marcus. Believe me, as soon as I could, I got out of that place and went fast and far. The only thing I will ever miss about that place is my parents, and memories I shared with neighborhood kids.
Then why are you hanging out here, (reading and writing on this blog), if you hate this place? You have lots of unfinished business, I am afraid, and you are taking it out on the people of Marcus, with a broad brush stroke. You choose to condemn the whole, for the actions of a few. And, I have to believe it is a few. I agree with the blogger who said, your life is about consequences. Consequences from choices you've made and actions you've taken. Too bad you didn't grow up in Remsen. Then you could be condemning that town for your sorry life and would think Marcus was great. And I too, am not going to use my name because I choose to be gutless, like you. I hope you get off this site soon and get on to the next item on your "hit list", with all your venom and anger. BTW did it ever occur to you that people treat you the same way you treat them? What goes around, truly does come around. Yet, I also believe it is never too late to change. And you can start with your attitude. That's an easy thing to adjust. Try smiling once in awhile, greet people with kindness when you meet them. Start small and see what a difference it can make in your life. Good luck and I will continue to pray for you and everyone else like you. And trust me, a town is not to blame for your miserable life, it really isn't.
wow that last blogger was rather mean I would say. EVERYONE has the right to their own oppinion of things and who is anyone else to put them done for that. Every town has its problems and some have more then others. Come on people have a little class and respect each other ok?
I don't know about some of you whiners in Marcus. I hail from the Wilkens linage, (who have been in town for a few years too), and have lived in the 'big city' my whole life but would much rather live with the small town 'cliques' than the big city crap we deal with. I have never lived in marcus but have spent many summer days and cold winter nights in town and can honestly say that Marcus is one of the best small towns in Iowa. The way I am treated when I am in town, even though I am an outsider, just blows me away. People in Marcus actually care how they treat people. Which is a far cry from where I live, no one here cares whether you live or die, even your own neighbors. So before you start complaining about how bad it is in Marcus, try living in the big city and see what its like.
I grew up in Marcus and moved away as an adult for my job. I understand the criticisms made and acknowledge the grains of truth in some of them (although I think the tone is a little harsher than necessary). In a town the size of Marcus its easy to personalize criticisms.
Marcus is not perfect. It has a lot of challenges and problems. So does Remsen. So does Sioux Falls. So does Kansas City. So does every other place on earth.
Still:
I am impressed by the town's leaders' efforts (and success!) in economic development over the past decade.
I admire the dozens of scholarships that are given to graduating seniors each year.
I appreciate the efforts of all those who make the Marcus Fair such a great experience that its one of my kids favorite events of the year.
I am amazed at the ability of people to know me years after I left town and their warmth to me and my family when we return.
I wish I could give my kids the sense of community that I knew growing up.
Hugh Hefner once said that "A lot of people go through life never quite understanding that if things aren't as wonderful as they should be, it's their own fault." I appreciate all of the efforts of those who tirelessly work constructively to make Marcus a better place.
Very nicely stated. Thankyou for recognizing the efforts that many of us 'locals' put forth. Marcus truely is a great place to live and raise a family. Too bad not everyone can see that.
I agree that Marcus is a great little town. The community pulls together to help those in times of need. Though I have been here a short time, we love the community. We love that there are things to do as a family which most communities take for granted these days. I like being able to go to the park and not worry about graffiti and gangs. I like knowing that my children are and will be safe. We like that we have a fair that we can go to. We look forward to that.
As for the dentist coming to Marcus, I had heard that too. Not sure if its true or not though so I can't really help you on that one.
the bio-diesel plant is dead. and i feel sorry for those that invested in that!!!
Remsen just lost there denist because the dentist said Remsen was too small of a town. Marcus is going ot have a very hard time finding one but hope that they do
It's dead. yeah the building of one in marcus nice cement parking lot though out in the middle of nowhere. Aren't they trying to buy one somewhere else? Doesn't anyone know what is going on with this multi-million dollar investment?
OK, going to put my 2 cents in re the remarks going back and forth about the bright sunny remarks about Marcus and the verbal whippings that those that have anything bad to say get --
As one poster pointed out, your bank acount and lineage does make a difference in how you are treated -- and that's a fact in probably all towns. I don't think the poster was trying to imply that Marcus itself was a really terrible place, just that it is not a totally ideal place where everyone is all warm and fuzzy. Marcus has its good and its bad people.
The poster may have been harsh in his assessment but not inaccurate.
Myself, I grew up in Marcus, graduated and come back only for holidays and family funerals. And no, distance is not an issue but the feelings that are invoked upon entering the town are far from warm and fuzzy, even after all these years.
You're asking us to be like the 3 little monkeys: see no evil, hear no evil, and most certainly, say no evil.
"As one poster pointed out, your bank acount and lineage does make a difference in how you are treated -- and that's a fact in probably all towns. I don't think the poster was trying to imply that Marcus itself was a really terrible place, just that it is not a totally ideal place where everyone is all warm and fuzzy. Marcus has its good and its bad people."
As the person who lives in the 'big city', each and every time I have been to Marcus, I have been treated as if I live in town.
I hail from the Wilkens linage, but do not carry the Wilkens name. No one in Marcus knows me or knows who I am related to in town and I don't broadcast it to every one I meet. I think Marcus is a beautiful town and have always loved visiting there.
For those of you who feel you have been 'wronged' by someone or are just pissed off because of the way you feel you are or have been treated, all I can say is, move to a big city and see how you are treated. At least your neighbors would step up to help you if needed. Where I live, 4 of my 5 neighbors could care less if I needed help or would even offer help if I ask.
At least here in the 'big city', I don't have to worry about the gossip that runs rampant thru small town america.
But I would much rather worry a little gossip than worry about making sure my house is locked, my garage is closed, my car is locked, etc.
All I can say is, I wish I could waste my time worrying about how Im treated cuz I live in a small town.
Hey, someone should report on the Marcus Picnic! Sounds like a fun time. Who showed up? How many were there? What do you do at these shindigs? Who's gone to them the longest? Are there other little Iowa towns that have their town picnics around there too? Anyone from Marcus show up?
Leonard Dreckman was the winner of the gas grill at the Fair Board appreciation supper this evening. Thankyou to all that supported this fundraiser. Congratulations Leonard!
The fair board had a very nice apprication supper last. The food was good and Little Miss Marcus had fun drawing the winner's name of the grill. Kristi
"I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve." Albert Schweitzer
Gray Matters: The Olympics Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Margaret Dorr Sometime before the opening of the Vancouver Winter Olympics, I was struck with an inspiration. Knowing our nephew, Dave Dorr, retired sports writer for the St. Louis Post Dispatch and Sporting News, had covered nine Olympics, six Winter Olympics and three Summer ones, I decided to asked him if he would recount some of his memorable experiences in a couple of guest Gray Matters.
I am sure you will be as delighted as I am that he said yes. The first of these appears today and the second will come next week.
Suddenly, the world was turned upside down. I awoke to a burning candle atop a TV set at the pension in which I was staying in the tiny Bavarian town of Ruhpolding.
Barbara, the owner, spoke only a smattering of English. Gesturing, she struggled to tell me there had been killings at the Olympics in Munich. Killings? But weren't the Olympic Games supposed to be a safe haven, a magical playground, a two-week window of international truce?
The candle? She lit it to honor those who were savagely murdered on Sept. 5, 1972, in an act of terrorism that would forever change the face of the Olympics. I drove quickly the 70 miles on the autobahn to Munich in a Volkswagen Beetle I'd rented, unprepared for what awaited me.
The world, I learned, was put on hold by a series of horrific events that began with members of the Black September, a faction of the Palestine Liberation Organization, scaling a 6 1/2-foot fence ringing the Olympic Village at 4 a.m. They stormed the first-floor apartment in the Village where the delegation from Israel was housed. They seized hostages at gunpoint, killing two, and demanded the release of 234 Arab prisoners in Israeli prisons as well as a Lufthansa 727 to flee to Cairo, Egypt.
Everything came to a tragic conclusion at a military airfield 12 miles away in the Munich suburb of Furstenfeldbruck with the deaths of nine more Israeli athletes and coaches. On ABC, a broadcaster told a stunned American TV audience: "They're all gone." Five terrorists and one policeman also died.
In what was bitter irony, Jewish blood had once again been spilled on German soil, the very memory of which was the reason why Germany had sought these Olympics to show the world it had repudiated swastikas and its Nazi past.
Instead, the Games provided the first world stage for modern terrorism and a cruel signal that the Olympics -- supposed to be a place of purity -- were bound up tightly in politics, like it or not. Yasser Arafat's PLO made a political statement that rippled into every corner of the world.
The enduring TV image of Munich for Americans was a terrorist in a ski mask standing on a balcony of the Olympic Village, not the pixie gymnast from the old Soviet Union, Olga Korbut, or Frank Shorter, the first American in 64 years to win a marathon gold medal, or American swimmer Mark Spitz, who won a record seven gold medals, or even Iowan Dan Gable, who lost his wrestling gold medal, only to find to his great relief that it had slipped under a cardboard stay in the bottom of his gym bag.
Spitz was hustled out of Munich because he is Jewish and there was fear he might be a terrorist target. The bodies of the 11 Israelis were flown to Tel Aviv. The Games continued, but they weren't the same. They weren't majestic anymore.
The Olympics would in the years ahead become a politicized powder keg, torn apart by boycotts and the use of performance-enhancing substances, and turned into big business and a money machine by the International Olympic Committee, which owns the Games.
That was the dark side. On the other side was the artistry of the athletes and national pride that tugs at the heartstrings of millions worldwide.
Munich was the first of nine Summer and Winter Olympics I covered as a journalist for the Sporting News and St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Little did I know in 1972 that more extraordinary Olympic moments than I could possibly imagine lay ahead for me.
We grew up with those memories on the periphery of our lives -- in newspaper headlines, watching Huntley and Brinkley -- while we played basketball every Friday night and learned to drive. I wonder what our own children will remember of 9/11 in the decades to come.
The Marcus Fair Board is selling raffle tickets for a chance to win a Weber Grill valued at over $400. Chances are 1 for $5 or 3 for $10. The grill will be available for viewing at the home basketball game on January 8th.
ReplyDeleteProceeds will go toward entertainment and expenses of the 2010 Marcus Fair. Fair Board members selling tickets will be on hand that evening. Thanks-Paul
don,t take this wrong anyone ,but who came up with sucram. I know
ReplyDeleteI believe it was kram nreog was the first person I ever heard say Sucram
ReplyDeletewhen was the word suram first use i mean date wise. I heard it years ago.
ReplyDeleteHard to take it wrong when I haven't a clue what you are talking about. Try sobering up next time before you post.
ReplyDeleteWe have a new business in Marcus it is a consignment store. This should be good for Marcus. I wish ths new business the best of luck.
ReplyDeleteChuck Beaton has just notified us through email that the Marcus Picnic will be held on Saturday, February 13, 2010, at the Hometown Buffet, 1312 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ. Note the new day, SATURDAY. It will be a buffet at noon.
ReplyDeleteSo why was the word Sucram used? as a joke or what?
ReplyDeleteto the person that told me to sober up before posting i guess you must be perfect in everything then?
Well I am better than those two middle aged Marcus ladies that took some pictures with a drunk ISU student in Ames this fall and took advantage of that poor drunk student. Everyone around town knows who these two are.
ReplyDeleteMarcus Dude: Did you notice that sucram happens to be Marcus spelled backwards?
ReplyDeleteTo the previous poster: Why would you post a remark like that? Seems to have nothing to do with the person's inquiry about sucram. You just throw it out there, and and then you coward behind an anonymous post. C'mon and show a little class.
Paul
Yes I know that sucram is Marcus spelled backwards. I remember when that word was used back in the early 60's.(I think before your time PAUL.) I would really like to know why is it was used. As a joke or something else.
ReplyDeleteJust wondering if the Fair Board would consider creating a Marcus Fair Facebook page. It would give you a chance to offer updates about the fair, a place to post photos, field questions, promote specific events, create a buzz for the upcoming 75th Marcus Fair and do some free advertising and public relations. Let people know you're getting it started in the news and at this site, and you'd probably quickly get a friends group behind you. A 4-H group might take it on as a project so that it wouldn't be a burden and it would be a way to get younger people involved.
ReplyDeleteAnother idea: Set up a spot in one of the quonset huts for people to bring in and display their old memorabilia of the Marcus Fair, including photos from the past. Take video (flip cameras are great and so easy to use) of Marcus's older residents telling their stories about their memories of the Marcus Fair and let them run on a video screen at the display. These "Memory Captures" would be a great addition to the Fair's archives and could be housed at the Marcus Historical Society during the rest of the year. Again, this would be an awesome 4-H project or a great communications project for the high school's newspaper staff. These video clips could also be used on your Facebook site!
ReplyDeleteWho won the Weber Grill?
ReplyDeleteJulie, I just read your comment wondering if broasted chicken could be found outside of Iowa. The answer is yes. We found it in Edgewater, Colorado. The restaurant was called Okoboji Inn. The owner wasn't from Iowa but if I remember correctly, he visited a relative in Iowa in the summertime.
ReplyDeleteNancy Iversen
Facebook or MySpace;
ReplyDeleteWhat would the public prefer?
I attended a session about this at the State Fair Convention this past December. I was leaning toward MySpace because I feel it has a stronger orientation toward entertainment and has more features that support music. Our board hopes to tackle this yet this winter, but we need to work on a couple of grants for other projects first.
No matter what media site we end up with, only productive and positive "friends" will be able to interact with the site. It will not be a site for people to bitch and complain, or to take cheap shots at other people. (Much like we've seen on this blog the last few months!) To monitor that, I feel a Fair Board member will need to be responsible.
In the mean time we are close to adding a couple of slide show presentations to the existing Marcus Fair link. The New York times video clip was added last fall. Other updates will be added in the next couple of months.(Sometimes progress is slow, but it is still progress.)
Currently the Marcus Historical Society mantains a booth at the Marcus Fair that would be a great place to share and display old Marcus Fair photos or other video memorabilia. The booth is manned, so someone can keep an eye on those treasures.
We are still selling tickets on the grill. Contact Clay Leavitt at Marcus Lumber if interested in purchasing. Weather postponements and delays have hampered our opportunities at selling chances, so we have not drawn for it yet.
Thanks,
Paul Wilkens
Thanks for the update Paul. Would love to see a Facebook or Myspace page on the Marcus Fair!
ReplyDeleteKurt Dorr
We have added numerous photos to the Marcus Fair link. They will appear on the bottom of the opening page. 2008 photos are in a format that allows the viewer to view each photo individually. 2009 is a slide show presentation. (Considering all the snow we have, it's nice to see green leaves, grass, and people enjoying the summer!)
ReplyDeleteThanks Paul
I wish someone had posted some pics from Marcus right after all the snow.
ReplyDeleteKurt Dorr
Paul:
ReplyDeleteHats off to you and your fair board for all of the great things you have done and for your always looking for ways to enhance and improve on all things related to the fair! Love the idea of bringing the Marcus Fair to FACEBOOK BTW!!!!
Keep up the great job and tell the fair board members thanks as well for making the Marcus Fair such a wonderful fair!
Philip Melvin Dorr
All should be aware that the new Fair Board President is Kristi Mason- one of our local veterinarians. She will do an awesome job and it frees me up to tackle some other projects with the board.-Paul
ReplyDeleteGreat pictures of the 2008 & 2009 Marcus fair on the fair link! Makes me wish it was summer. I'd love to see the fair on Facebook.
ReplyDeleteGreat job, Paul. The fair photos look good. I'd love to see the fair on Facebook too. More "oldies" and businesses hang their hat there -- but whatever works!
ReplyDeletehey isnt Lee Rainboth in Haiti. Any word on if he was in the area affected by the Earthquake?
ReplyDeleteI heard Bill Miller passed away last night. Very sorry to hear this. My prayers are with his brother Brian and the families affected. Haven't seen Bill in a while but he was always fun to talk to. Just an all around nice person. My condolences.
ReplyDeleteKurt
A few comments back someone was asking about Lee Rainboth. I found a quote in a USA today article:
ReplyDelete"Joe Rainboth of Spearfish, S.D., knows that same relief.
Rainboth's family heard from his brother, Lee Rainboth, who lives in the mountain village of Mizak, about 50 miles southwest of Port-au-Prince. About six hours after the quake hit, Lee Rainboth was able to use a satellite phone for a couple of minutes to contact the brothers' parents in Iowa and let them know he was OK, Joe Rainboth said.
"He is safe," Joe Rainboth said."
You can read the whole article here.
Jennifer Smith Hoesing
Tallahassee, Fla.
Someone might pass on Jennifer's link to the local and regional papers. I'm sure they'll want to include a story about a local resident in Haiti.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't count on the Marcus to be on top of anything.
ReplyDeleteMeant to saw I wouldn't count on the Marcus News to be on top of anything.
ReplyDeletewhen i lived in marcus in the 60's and was in the 6th grade we started using the term sucram selgae which translated to Marcus Eagles.
ReplyDeleteI have great memories from my childhood of Marcus. Good memories: Mabel's candy counter, Marland Theatre, swimming pool, locust street neighbors, elementary school teachers;Miss Baker, Mrs McIntosh, Mr Lens, Mr Thrash, and Mr McCauley. The park was the best; baseball games, Father O'Rielly and his dog Rasputen. Bad memories: I was scared of Connie Meads big white dog Jackson. I remember a boy falling off the high dive at the swimming pool and landing on the cement, Robbie Schlenger got his 2 front teeth knocked out with a baseball bat standing in line at recess. Very bad memories; being slapped on the face at age 5 while attending morning mass in 1'st grade at Holy Name School by Sister Mary Brian Joseph.
ReplyDeleteThe boy falling off the diving board might have been my brother Gary. Made for a long summer for him.
ReplyDeleteDennis Husman
Dennis,
ReplyDeleteGary and I were in the same grade. He is the boy I remember having the accident at the swimming pool. Sure glad he recovered from such a serious accident.
Cindy Cannon
Cindy, not so sure Gary didn't tie his wheel chair to Connie's dog Jackson and get a ride around the block. We did things like that for fun on the East Side of the highway!
ReplyDeleteDennis Husman
Friends, family and Marcus ex-pats: I noticed that some blog readers have asked about the status of my brother, Lee Rainboth.
ReplyDeleteYes, Lee is currently in Haiti and survived the recent 7.0 magnitude earthquake. He has been living in Haiti for the past 3-plus years and was in the process of building a permanent home there when the quake hit.
Lee's home in Haiti was destroyed, along with the homes of countless others in the community. In the days since the earthquake, everyone in his community has been sleeping outside, on the ground, under improvised rope and tarp shelters. The houses that are still standing are structurally unsafe to live in.
Where Lee lives is about 50 miles southwest of the capital city of Port-au-Prince, which is where all of the media images and coverage have been coming from.
Although it has not been covered in the U.S. national media, his community of Mizak has been hit hard. A benefit relief fund has been established for Lee and the area of Mizak.
More info about his efforts in Haiti and options to contribute to the relief fund for his area are located at www.leesdreamforhaiti.com.
Thank you all for your caring and support of the people of Haiti and my brother, Lee.
Thank you, Joe, for letting us know. Like so many, I've admired Lee's efforts and positive spirit from afar. This strengthens my own resolve to help. Were there others from Marcus planning to visit Haiti, or who also went in the past?
ReplyDeleteTo the person who wrote memories of Marcus -- they ring so true -- the good and the bad.
Lee Rainboth is an American, living in Mizak – a rural, mountainside community in Haiti.
ReplyDeleteLee has a dream. A dream to use his own God-given talents to help improve the lives of others.
Lee’s dream is to create opportunities for young adults in some of the most neglected areas of the world. To use art, music and creativity to inspire young men and women to have pride in their own communities. To contribute to the development of those communities. And to mobilize artists worldwide to redefine the possibilities of art to make life more beautiful for all.
With plans to build his own home, establish a Hatian school for the fine arts and implement community involvement programs in Mizak, Lee’s dream was well on its way to becoming a reality.
Then, on January 12, a violent earthquake shook the island.
The 7.0 magnitude quake made instant headlines around the world – it was the worst to hit the region in more than 200 years. Human lives have been lost. Families torn apart. Homes and buildings destroyed.
In late December of 2009, Lee had begun the construction of his own permanent home in Mizak, Haiti. He had employed the talents and labors of local suppliers and contractors. From his home, he planned to launch his dream and begin to inspire hope in the community and beyond.
The earthquake changed all of that.
Lee’s house, along with much of his dream, now lies in ruin. His home is now cracked and crumbling – concrete bricks and metal supports that are no longer able to provide him protection and shelter. He is not alone – many homes in surrounding areas are damaged or destroyed. Lee and the rest of the community have been sleeping outside, on the ground – under improvised tent shelters – since the quake hit.
This natural disaster has wreaked havoc on the entire country of Haiti and relief workers from around the world are on their way to help where able.
As Lee’s family and friends, we struggle to wrap our heads around this catastrophic situation that has struck Haiti and its people. We want to help Lee and the achievement of his dream - to help the Hatians whose way of life has been so suddenly upturned.
This site is about helping Lee achieve that dream.
With roads and transportation systems destroyed, there is currently no feasible way to get food, water, supplies or equipment to Lee in the mountain community of Mizak.
In the coming weeks, he will, however have access for his family to wire money to him in Jacmel, the nearest developed city. That money will be used to rebuild his home and the homes of others in the community. It will be used to help meet the community’s basic needs of water, food and shelter.
For those of us that want to help, this page is a way to be able to send financial support directly to Lee. With our support, Lee will be able to not only rebuild his home, but help to rebuild the entire community of Mizak and help inspire positive change in the young adults in the area. They are ultimately the ones who will impact their nation.
www.leesdreamforhaiti.com
Hi, Doris Henry here, wife of Rev. Roger Henry. We served in Marcus from '97 to '03 at Grace United Methodist and are currently serving in Manchester. Roger and I had the pleasure of being able to visit with Margaret Dorr this morning at her new home in Cedar Rapids. Her unit is very nice, and while there are still a few things to be done, it is very homey and charming. I look forward to our next visit and hopefully taking her out to lunch. While I'm sure the move was strenuous, she looked wonderful.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update concerning Lee. Roger had a free will offering taken for him during our Sunday services, it's good to know where we need to send it. Our prayers join yours for him and all those who are suffering.
We feel very blessed to have been a part of the Marcus community, it was a wonderful 6 years. God Bless
Praying for the Bill Miller family tonight and tomorrow as Marcus is saying a temporary goodbye to a great guy.
ReplyDeleteBill had the most amazing laugh and kind heart that one could imagine. Growing up in the Peace Lutheran Church I will never forget all of the countless Sundays Bill was a greeter and/or usher at church and he always made you feel welcomed.
Last great visit I had with Bill was while he was teaching at Granville Spalding. He gave me a tour of the facilities for old times sake and we had a delightful time catching up.
I will miss him and am praying for his wife, kids, grandkids, his wonderful brothers and their families, and for his Uncle Walt.
May God's grace be showered upon all of you during the funeral tomorrow and in the coming days.
Philip M. Dorr
Dog Found/Dropped off at our house a mile N of Marcus. Appears to be a female viszla, not full grown. If anyone knows who's dog this might be or interested in taking, please call 712-261-0070.
ReplyDeleteLooks like some bad ice about to hit Marcus.
ReplyDeleteK Dorr
there was a picture and article on lee rainboth in the sioux city journal the other day
ReplyDeleteIf you're stuck inside due to nasty weather, enjoy these little tidbits. Maybe you can even write down some more here! Think Spring!
ReplyDeleteIf you're proud that your region makes the national news at least 96 times each year because it's the hottest or the coldest spot in the nation, you might live in Spencer, Iowa.
If your dad's suntan stops at a line curving around the middle of his forehead, you might farm in Carroll, Iowa.
If you have worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you might live in Spirit Lake, Iowa.
If your town has an equal number of bars and churches, you might live in Maple River, Iowa.
If you have had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you might live in Anthon, Iowa.
YOU KNOW YOU ARE A TRUE Iowan WHEN 'Vacation' means going east or west on I-80 for the weekend or ...
If you measure distance in hours, you might live anywhere in Iowa.
If you know several people who have hit a deer more than once, you might live in Sac City, Iowa.
If you often switch from 'Heat' to 'A/C' in the same day and back
again, you might live in Denison, Iowa.
If you can drive 65 mph through two feet of snow during a raging blizzard, without flinching, you might live Mapleton, Iowa.
If you see people wearing camouflage at social events (including weddings), you might live in Battle Creek, Iowa.
If you install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked, you might live in Danbury, Iowa.
If you carry jumper cables in your car, and your girlfriend knows how to use them, you might live in Correctionville, Iowa.
If you design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit, you might live in MARCUS, Iowa.
If driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow, you might live in Ida Grove, Iowa.
If you know all four seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter and road construction, you might live in Carroll, Iowa.
If your idea of creative landscaping is a statue of a deer next to your blue spruce, you might live in Schleswig, Iowa.
If you were unaware that there is a legal drinking age, you might live in Iowa City, Iowa.
If Going Down South means Missouri , you might live in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
If your neighbor throws a party to celebrate his new pole shed, you might live in Charter Oak, Iowa.
If your idea of going out to eat is a tail gate party every Saturday, you definitely live in Iowa!
If you have more miles on your snow blower than your car, you might live in Sioux City, Iowa.
If you findzero degrees to be 'a little chilly', you might live in Washta, Iowa.
If you laughed just a bit, but not too much, you have a great sense of humor -- and you obviously are a true blue Iowan.
Here are some pictures from the 1st Marcus snow storm courtesy of Rae Anne Alesch. Thanks Rae Anne!
ReplyDeleteK Dorr
First Snow storm
Snow storm 2
Snow storm 3
Snow storm 4
Snow storm 5
Those pictures were taken right on highway 143 going thru Marcus. The pictures showed some of the show but there were drifts 10 ro 12 feet high is other areas of town.
ReplyDeleteThis weekend RAGBRAI announces its route across Iowa. Does anyone know if it's going through Marcus? I heard it'll start in northwest Iowa ... anyone have the dirt?
ReplyDeleteJulie:
ReplyDeleteRead the article below my comments re RAGBRAI and trust you don't mind my sharing a few personal thoughts re my experience with the first RAGBRAI in 1973 out of SIOUX CITY!!!
The article is in tonight's Sioux City Journal fyi. If it starts in Sioux City it most likely will go by the Hoefling corner south of town if even that close or through Quimby and such like it did back in 1973.
BTW, I rode in the very first RAGBRAI in 1973 for just the first day only on an old-sorry 10 speed or such that wasn't much of a bike. There were only 300 or so of us on that inagural ride out of Sioux City. Needless to say riding from Sioux City to Storm Lake with all of those hills to cover out of Sioux City thru Lawton and then again through Quimby made me never look at that area quite the same again. My dad and mom took me to Sioux City and dropped me off and I was never so glad to see my brothers Karl and Kurt later that day in Storm Lake and say goodbye to RAGBRAI.......that was the longest day of my life and looking back I sure wished my parents had given me something else for a birthday present......the connection to the first RAGBRAI as you will note in the article below was that the first day was on AUGUST 26....you guessed it as my birthday is on August 26 thus at the age of 15 your's truly made RAGBRAI histoy on the exact day of my birthday!
Philip Melvin Dorr
P.S. Read next post for the SCJ article re RAGBRAI.
Will Sioux City be RAGBRAI launch point?
ReplyDeleteStoryDiscussionBy Bret Hayworth - bhayworth@siouxcityjournal.com | Posted: Saturday, January 30, 2010 12:00 am | Loading…
Font Size:Default font sizeLarger font size.Northwest Iowa cities frequent RAGBRAI kickoff spots
The Des Moines Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa has begun in Northwest Iowa (from Onawa north) for 22 of the 37 rides.
The list includes Sioux City five times, most recently in 2001; Onawa, five times, most recently in 2004; Hawarden, three times, most recently in 1998; Sioux Center, three times, most recently in 2002; Rock Rapids, three times, most recently in 2007; Le Mars, once, in 2005; Sergeant Bluff, once, in 2006; and Akron, once, in 1982.
SIOUX CITY -- "We're due."
That's Aran Rush succinct take on Sioux City's eligibility as launch point for the RAGBRAI bicycle tour in July.
Rush, Sioux City Convention Center and Tourism Bureau executive director, is cautiously optimistic that good news will come this evening, when the overnight cities are announced for the 2010 Des Moines Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa.
The rolling party on wheels, which could draw as many as 9,000 daily riders, typically covers about 500 miles, traversing Iowa from west to east. Sioux City makes for a defensible starting point in 2010, Rush said, since the city has done well in previously hosting the bicyclists, family members and support crews.
Rush said he's been pitching Sioux City since the 2009 RAGBRAI ended, adding the bid committee members would love to change their title to host committee. He said RAGBRAI officials have come to town, seen the new hotels that have opened and been impressed with Historic Fourth Street's entertainment options.
"When I say they were impressed, they really couldn't stop talking about it," Rush said.
The initial RAGBRAI was a far less organized affair in 1973, when Sioux City was the beginning point on Aug. 26 and about 115 people completed the full ride. Sioux City since has been the opening city four times, in 1978, 1988, 1993 and 2001.
Doug Albrecht, owner of Albrecht Cycle Shop in Sioux City, said local cyclists have been betting whether the opening city spot this year would go to Sioux City or to Le Mars, in the next county to the north.
"We've got a map down here that shows every RAGBRAI (route). According to the past, they like to spread it around the area," Albrecht said.
"I thought it'd be here last year, to be honest. We feel good that it's going to be here. I'll be shocked if it isn't."
Albrecht said the 2001 host city experience was a great success, with concerts and other fun events, along with the boost to his store's business.
"I never heard anything bad about it," he said.
The RAGBRAI XXXVIII crush would stay overnight Saturday, July 24, then depart July 25 for a ride ending near the Mississippi River on July 31.
The RAGBRAI host cities will be announced at 8 p.m. today.
"I think we have a great shot at it," Rush said.
To Julia,
ReplyDeleteThe Des Moines Register announced tonight that the 2010 RAGBRAI ride will be from Sioux Ciy to Dubuque. First night will be Storm Lake.
Gray Matters: A Friend from Long Ago
ReplyDeleteWednesday, January 27, 2010
Margaret Dorr
A hometown friend recently encouraged me to write again about some of our earlier residents. She said she had just visited the Reed Center and that always made her nostalgic for some of the special people who had made growing up in our little town so extraordinary. She then mentioned Dora Shefstad. I remember Dora well so writing about her will be a real pleasure. Her husband, Wilbur, was a descendant of I.M. Jackson who was Marcus' very first citizen. In contrast, his wife, born Dora Hahn, was a much more recent arrival. She had been born in Germany. When she was very small her father was called into the army in WW I. During his time of service his young wife died leaving Dora and her two brothers virtual orphans. She was sent from their rural village near Darmstadt to live with an aunt in Berlin. Following the war her father remarried but she remained
with her aunt. Circumstances eventually became so dire in the capital that they moved to Manheim to live with another relative.
In a rare somber moment Dora described those difficult times. I doubt if any of us can recall being hungry because there was absolutely no food to eat, but that was a very real part of her childhood. As she explained, Germany is too small to produce enough food for its population so it had always imported food. That was impossible during the war and, though there
was some food available afterward, they had no money with which to buy it.
Dora's mood brightened as she recalled her school days while living in Mannheim. She loved learning, but beyond that the poorest children were sent to live with families in the Black Forest during the summers. There she lived with a kind family who gave her plenty to eat and chores, much easier than she was used to, such as baby-sitting or herding cattle in the
woods with another youngster. Flax was the farmer's main crop, so after it had been processed and woven into fabric it afforded another pleasant task for the children. They had to spread these lengths of linen out on the
grass and sprinkle them as they had to be kept damp for the sun to properly
bleach them.
When these Schwarzwald summers came to an end, conditions worsened. Finally, in what seemed almost a godsend, her late mother's sister sent money so at age fourteen she could accompany two older cousins to America.
Dora smiled as she told me of their coming by steerage which is supposedly the poorest way to travel. But it was such an improvement over the way she had lived that it seemed almost luxurious to her. She vividly remembered
that she had tasted her first ice cream on that trip.
In the US she worked out her fare and continued working for relatives until she met Wilbur. They were married in 1949. After farming for some years they started Shefstad's Shoe and Canvas Repair Shop and in 1959 they moved into the house at 303 N. Elm where they lived our their lives surrounded by a most spectacular flower garden. Its rival at this time could be that of master gardener Greg Geerdes in that very same block.
(There must be something in the soil there on North Elm)!
Dora rarely spoke ill of anyone, but she once admitted to being a bit annoyed with people who complained about things in the US. One time she put it this way, " I came with nothing and the US didn't ask me to come. But when I came they took me in and gave me a whole new lease on life. I am eternally grateful."
I hope you have enjoyed my recollections of this special lady as much as I have enjoyed recalling them, thanks to my friend's gentle urging.
Who can forget Dora! Such a sweet lady. It's too bad I didn't have much of a comprehension what she went through when I was a kid. Wish I had.
ReplyDeleteK Dorr
On a summer day in the early 1970's some kids were on a taller downtown building throwing water balloons at cars as they drove by on Main Street. Does anyone remember who they were and did they ever get caught ??
ReplyDeleteIn a November blog someone posted an inquiry about someone streaking. I remember it to be Willis C. running butt naked from the fairgrounds the the ball field and to the swimming pool parking lot where Tony Schreier picked him up in his (i believe) 1970 Cuda.
ReplyDeleteCan anyone tell me why houses in Marcus are so high priced compared to other towns and such high taxes?
ReplyDeleteWell according the laws of supply and demand, if the demand is higher than the supply prices go up. Therefore I can only assume there is more demand for houses in Marcus than there is a good supply of homes.
ReplyDeleteWas it Mark Ogren that said sucram?
ReplyDeleteRe high home prices in Marcus?
ReplyDeleteHigh compared to what? Relative to Sioux County and Plymouth County or relative to Cleghorn and Cherokee?
Taxes:
ReplyDeleteThere is only one thing that raises your property taxes, SPENDING.
The mayor and council have no continence when it comes to spending free money (yours)
High taxes = no growth, there hasn't been a new house built in Marcus for years while other town are popping them up like Dandelions.
marcus
ReplyDeletei heard the chief quit
ReplyDeleteYes he did and the trend isn't over!
ReplyDeleteGood News for The Marcus Fire Dept.
ReplyDeleteA successful grant writing effort by the Marcus Fire Dept. has yielded a nice
award from the FEMA-Assistance to Fire Fighters Grant program. $32, 437 has
been awarded for equipment purchases. The local match will be $1,707.
A majority of the money will be used to purchase a new set of Hydraulic of Rescue Tools (Jaws of Life) which is an essential tool for the extrication of victims from motor vehicle accidents. The new tools will be more user friendly and replace the original tools that are nearly 30 years old.
We will also be purchasing a Thermal Imagery Camera. The camera will aid
Fire Fighters in finding hot spots as well as victims of fires.
Our Department is very pleased with this award and is looking forward to putting this new equipment into service.
" Yours in Service"
Marcus Fire Department
Hi Margaret Dorr,
ReplyDeleteSince you are a person of knowledge about Marcuses past. I was wondering if you know anything about Leopold or Elizabeth Franck? Or Margaret or Henry Frank?
Thanks
There is a short piece about Leopold Franck in the 1971 Marcus Centennial History Book and the same article is reprinted in the 1996 QQC Book with two pictures added. I don't know how to do it but I'm sure someone could scan the article on the Blog for you.
ReplyDeleteGood luck!
Margaret Dorr
Police Chief Neal Galles got a promotion to Deputy Sheriff of Cherokee County thus how can you be down on the community or Neal for bettering himself?
ReplyDeleteWay to go Neal and congratulations on your new job. You make all of us in Marcus proud by your hard work ethic.
"Yes he did and the trend isn't over!"
ReplyDeleteI hope the readers didn't take this as a bad comment twards Neal or the Marcus community, Neal is a great person and I'm sure all those living in Marcus will miss him as thier law enforcement officer.
It's just that with Tim Galles leaving his city job last year, Randy Weflen getting pink slipped, and Neal Galles leaving his Chief of Police position with the city, who's next???
Does Marcus have trouble with it's leadership? Are the salaries adequate? With the talk about high taxes it shouldn't be wages?
Has anyone confronted these people to see where the problem lies?
problem lies inside your mind
ReplyDeleteHow can anyone build a house in Marcus with the high taxes and the high price for the lots? Has the Lumber Yard ever thought about building a spec home?
ReplyDeleteQUOTE "How can anyone build a house in Marcus with the high taxes and the high price for the lots? Has the Lumber Yard ever thought about building a spec home?"
ReplyDeleteI always thought it was the Marcus Lumber Yard's job to provide the best and most reasonably priced raw materials to build homes but I never knew that they were to become a SPEC HOME BUILDER as well. Isn't that what building contractors and real estate developers are suppose to do and then call the local lumber yard to order the materials?
The Marcus City Council meets at the same time and place every month. Meetings are open to the public and there are always plenty of seats available. You'd be surprised how differently they follow their "agenda" when the people they represent are present. So let's get involved and hold them accountable if that's what they need.
ReplyDeleteIt's not the Lumber Yards responsibility to build a spec home, but I think the last home to be built in Marcus was a spec home built by the Cherokee Lumber yard
ReplyDeleteJust think back over the years of all the great City Employees that have come an gone. Some left because of the Mayor and some because of the City Council
ReplyDelete....and some were let go because they...for instance Tim Galles. Why did he leave? Just asking!
ReplyDeleteCopy and paste this link to YouTube video of an East Coast weatherman. I thought you tough Midwest types would get a kick out it. What's the fuss all about? Right?
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doJ8-qwXIx8
Hi:
ReplyDeleteJust happened to come across this site and wondered how many of you "old-timers" knew my parents. My mother was Marie Rabel daughter of George and Alma Rabel. Before moving into town in the early 50's, they farmed between Marcus and Remsen. My dad was Glenn Metcalf, son of Chels and Lottie Metcalf. Chels was a barber in Marcus for many years. Lottie's maiden name was Grauer... I believe there all a lot of her distant relatives around town today. Both of my parents attended Marcus High School and graduated (I believe) in the late 1930's. Anyway, it would be fun to hear from anyone who knew them. Thanks! Bob Metcalf
I believe there was a major slowdown on homebuilding across the country(including NW Iowa) this past year. I know of one new home scheduled to be built in Marcus in 2010 so far and as far as taxes ask some of your friends who live in comprible homes in other communities and you will see Marcus(Cherokee county) isn't out of line.
ReplyDeleteI know some contractors have built spec homes in the past only to sit on them for a year and loose money in the long run. It's better tohave the home built to thte new owners specs and colors. Then there are no extra expenses to change things after it's built.
Ron Rosewall
Why is there so much negativity in this wonderful community??
ReplyDeleteIts truely hard to believe all of the negative comments from whomever. If you want your community to prosper, you have to go out and find bussiness to come to your town. Being negative about the city council or mayor is terribe. Why don't you run and see what you can do. They are all human. The good Lord never put any perfect people on this earth.
ReplyDeleteWas always told some one being successful makes another jealous!!
Should not have any of that. We are all capable of being successful, its just how much effort you want to put into it.
Marcus a Great Place to live!
It is sad to see all the negative posts.
ReplyDeleteK Dorr
No Kurt it's only sad if you let it bring you down. Marcus is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Those people that complain are still here! Otherwise they'd just move on and forget about this 'terrible place'. (Must not really be that bad.)
ReplyDeleteForget about the negative whinners that lash out and then hide behind the annonymity of this blog. Complaining in this forum isn't going to make them happier. They're going to complain no matter where they live.
Marcus IS a great place to live!
(Although I could use 85*, some green grass, and a glass of lemonade about now.)
I agree Marcus is a great place to live. Our community is always helping out. Weather it is a family struggling or a fire in the community or just someone needing help with mowing there lawn or shoveling snow.
ReplyDeleteKristi
RE your misguided quote below I took it upon myself to go through the public records at the city hall so the record could be set straight and the likes of you will either get your facts straight before you go spouting off or just maybe realize how petty and borish your rants really are and find another blog to waste your time on. Read "BELOW" your quote for the facts and hope you will refrain from continuing to tear our great community down on this wonderful PUBLIC BLOG that was intended for fun stuff about Marcus and not the likes of you to take shots at the many hard working people that make up our wonderful community we call MARCUS.
ReplyDeleteQUOTE "Taxes:
There is only one thing that raises your property taxes, SPENDING.
The mayor and council have no continence when it comes to spending free money (yours)
High taxes = no growth, there hasn't been a new house built in Marcus for years while other town are popping them up like Dandelions."
ALL NEW BUILDING PERMITS on file at the city hall and open for public viewing:
2004
Verizon Wireless "NEW TOWER" $120,000
Marcus Lumber "NEW BUILDING" Costs lots of money.
BOB CAVE "NEW HOUSE"
2005
Jack Clarkson "NEW HOUSE"
Joel Haveman " NEW HOUSE"
2006
Wes Tel "TOWER" $48,000
Valley Bank "NEW BANK BLDG" $200,000
2007
Steve Puhrman "NEW HOUSE"
Mike Schwarz "NEW HOUSE"
Ron Rosewall "NEW HOUSE"
1st COOP "Storage Bin" $756,000
John Bentz "NEW HOUSE"
GeriLynn Specht "NEW HOUSE"
Harold Klassen "NEW HOUSE"
Adam Freders "NEW BLDG for BUSINESS"
Hometown Guest House $800,000
2008
Marcus Fair "NEW BLDG"
Hog Slats "New Bldg" $175,000
1st COOP "NEW TOWER DRYER" $424,000
2009
Mike's Construction "NEW BUILDING"
To all of this I say AWESOME JOB MARCUS and our leadership. Keep up the great job and let's give ourselves a pat on the back for making our town one of the neat success stories in rural Iowa!
P.S. That is NINE (9) NEW HOUSES built in our wonderful community "MARCUS" in the last FIVE (5) years. Just wanting to keep it real so lies and false gossip don't perpetuate themself on here and in our community and then take on a life of their own thus hurting those who have given so much of their time and energy to see our community prosper.
ReplyDeleteBy the way I heard that Norton received a raise by the city.
ReplyDeleteDont think he is going anywhere!!
Must be a Great Worker!! Way to go Norton!!!
Those great people skills finally paid off for Norton...
ReplyDeleteI have been reading past months of comments, and I have to say, I am totally amused. I agree totally with anonymous. Thank you for your posts. What you are stating is the truth. For all you "Marcusites" that post on here, you don't know the "other" side of the people of Marcus. If you aren't a "Dorr, "Schmillen", Downs", "Sand", etc. or if you don't have money, you don't mean anything to Marcus. It's been that way for years. All you Marcus "high society", you know it's true. I grew up in Marcus and had a wonderful childhood there. But since then, it's gone to hell in a hand basket. I was home visiting my parents at Christmas time and couldn't believe how terrible the city streets were. We just about got whip lash just trying to drive down the ice covered streets that haven't been plowed correctly. We drove thru Remsen and their streets were perfectly fine. I will also remain anonymous on this page because my parents still reside in Marcus, and whether or not you "Marcus high society" believe it, there will be repercussions for MY actions on my parents. Marcus is all politics. All about your name, and who you come from. Sad.
ReplyDeleteNo I don't know that is true at all.
ReplyDeleteK Dorr
I believe it's all about how one views life! Is your cup half full or half empty? Some will complain to make themselves feel good and others will get up and do something about it. I think it has nothing to do if one has money or not, or have the right last name. I moved to Marcus 23 years ago after returning from the military and have chosen to do things to make my life and the lives of those around me better. I had no family or friends from Marcus. We just choose the small town because we felt safe and secure here and felt we could be a part of a growing community. Years later we have many friends from all walks of life. Some who are positive and look at the glass as half full, and others who see it as half empty and complain about things often. We all make choices and have to live with them. Choose wisely!
ReplyDeleteRon Rosewall
Well said Ron.
ReplyDeleteK Dorr
It's not about choosing to have your cup "half full" or "half empty". It's the truth. I lived it. I was discriminated against because of my name, as well as several others in town. I personally know people who live in Marcus now, that have pulled stunts, (such as driving DRUNK all over town and tearing up town streets) and got away with it, because their Daddy runs a successful business in town, and happened to sit on the City Council. It's small town nonsense. It's Marcus. Believe me, as soon as I could, I got out of that place and went fast and far. The only thing I will ever miss about that place is my parents, and memories I shared with neighborhood kids.
ReplyDeleteThen why are you hanging out here, (reading and writing on this blog), if you hate this place? You have lots of unfinished business, I am afraid, and you are taking it out on the people of Marcus, with a broad brush stroke. You choose to condemn the whole, for the actions of a few. And, I have to believe it is a few. I agree with the blogger who said, your life is about consequences. Consequences from choices you've made and actions you've taken. Too bad you didn't grow up in Remsen. Then you could be condemning that town for your sorry life and would think Marcus was great. And I too, am not going to use my name because I choose to be gutless, like you. I hope you get off this site soon and get on to the next item on your "hit list", with all your venom and anger. BTW did it ever occur to you that people treat you the same way you treat them? What goes around, truly does come around. Yet, I also believe it is never too late to change. And you can start with your attitude. That's an easy thing to adjust. Try smiling once in awhile, greet people with kindness when you meet them. Start small and see what a difference it can make in your life.
ReplyDeleteGood luck and I will continue to pray for you and everyone else like you. And trust me, a town is not to blame for your miserable life, it really isn't.
wow that last blogger was rather mean I would say. EVERYONE has the right to their own oppinion of things and who is anyone else to put them done for that. Every town has its problems and some have more then others. Come on people have a little class and respect each other ok?
ReplyDeleteI don't know about some of you whiners in Marcus. I hail from the Wilkens linage, (who have been in town for a few years too), and have lived in the 'big city' my whole life but would much rather live with the small town 'cliques' than the big city crap we deal with. I have never lived in marcus but have spent many summer days and cold winter nights in town and can honestly say that Marcus is one of the best small towns in Iowa. The way I am treated when I am in town, even though I am an outsider, just blows me away. People in Marcus actually care how they treat people. Which is a far cry from where I live, no one here cares whether you live or die, even your own neighbors. So before you start complaining about how bad it is in Marcus, try living in the big city and see what its like.
ReplyDeleteI grew up in Marcus and moved away as an adult for my job. I understand the criticisms made and acknowledge the grains of truth in some of them (although I think the tone is a little harsher than necessary). In a town the size of Marcus its easy to personalize criticisms.
ReplyDeleteMarcus is not perfect. It has a lot of challenges and problems. So does Remsen. So does Sioux Falls. So does Kansas City. So does every other place on earth.
Still:
I am impressed by the town's leaders' efforts (and success!) in economic development over the past decade.
I admire the dozens of scholarships that are given to graduating seniors each year.
I appreciate the efforts of all those who make the Marcus Fair such a great experience that its one of my kids favorite events of the year.
I am amazed at the ability of people to know me years after I left town and their warmth to me and my family when we return.
I wish I could give my kids the sense of community that I knew growing up.
Hugh Hefner once said that "A lot of people go through life never quite understanding that if things aren't as wonderful as they should be, it's their own fault." I appreciate all of the efforts of those who tirelessly work constructively to make Marcus a better place.
Thank you.
Very nicely stated. Thankyou for recognizing the efforts that many of us 'locals' put forth. Marcus truely is a great place to live and raise a family. Too bad not everyone can see that.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know if Marcus will be getting a Dentist in town? This would be a great attribute to our community.
ReplyDeleteI agree that Marcus is a great little town. The community pulls together to help those in times of need. Though I have been here a short time, we love the community. We love that there are things to do as a family which most communities take for granted these days. I like being able to go to the park and not worry about graffiti and gangs. I like knowing that my children are and will be safe. We like that we have a fair that we can go to. We look forward to that.
ReplyDeleteAs for the dentist coming to Marcus, I had heard that too. Not sure if its true or not though so I can't really help you on that one.
I bet we have a dentist before we have a bio-diesel plant!!
ReplyDeletethe bio-diesel plant is dead. and i feel sorry for those that invested in that!!!
ReplyDeleteRemsen just lost there denist because the dentist said Remsen was too small of a town. Marcus is going ot have a very hard time finding one but hope that they do
It's dead. yeah the building of one in marcus nice cement parking lot though out in the middle of nowhere. Aren't they trying to buy one somewhere else? Doesn't anyone know what is going on with this multi-million dollar investment?
ReplyDeleteI heard that they are trying to buy a plant but having problems with the paper work.
ReplyDeleteHere are some pictures of Marcus after some of the heavy snow. These are courtesy of Marcia Steffen.
ReplyDeleteThat is a lot of snow!!
K Dorr
Marcus Snow
Marcus Snow 2
Marcus Snow 3
Thanks for posting the pictures Kurt! Marcia
ReplyDeleteOK, going to put my 2 cents in re the remarks going back and forth about the bright sunny remarks about Marcus and the verbal whippings that those that have anything bad to say get --
ReplyDeleteAs one poster pointed out, your bank acount and lineage does make a difference in how you are treated -- and that's a fact in probably all towns. I don't think the poster was trying to imply that Marcus itself was a really terrible place, just that it is not a totally ideal place where everyone is all warm and fuzzy. Marcus has its good and its bad people.
The poster may have been harsh in his assessment but not inaccurate.
Myself, I grew up in Marcus, graduated and come back only for holidays and family funerals. And no, distance is not an issue but the feelings that are invoked upon entering the town are far from warm and fuzzy, even after all these years.
You're asking us to be like the 3 little monkeys: see no evil, hear no evil, and most certainly, say no evil.
No one really cares how aggrieved some of you feel about growing up in Marcus. Grow up and get over yourself.
ReplyDelete"As one poster pointed out, your bank acount and lineage does make a difference in how you are treated -- and that's a fact in probably all towns. I don't think the poster was trying to imply that Marcus itself was a really terrible place, just that it is not a totally ideal place where everyone is all warm and fuzzy. Marcus has its good and its bad people."
ReplyDeleteAs the person who lives in the 'big city', each and every time I have been to Marcus, I have been treated as if I live in town.
I hail from the Wilkens linage, but do not carry the Wilkens name. No one in Marcus knows me or knows who I am related to in town and I don't broadcast it to every one I meet. I think Marcus is a beautiful town and have always loved visiting there.
For those of you who feel you have been 'wronged' by someone or are just pissed off because of the way you feel you are or have been treated, all I can say is, move to a big city and see how you are treated. At least your neighbors would step up to help you if needed. Where I live, 4 of my 5 neighbors could care less if I needed help or would even offer help if I ask.
At least here in the 'big city', I don't have to worry about the gossip that runs rampant thru small town america.
But I would much rather worry a little gossip than worry about making sure my house is locked, my garage is closed, my car is locked, etc.
All I can say is, I wish I could waste my time worrying about how Im treated cuz I live in a small town.
Grow up.
Hey, someone should report on the Marcus Picnic! Sounds like a fun time. Who showed up? How many were there? What do you do at these shindigs? Who's gone to them the longest? Are there other little Iowa towns that have their town picnics around there too? Anyone from Marcus show up?
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know anything about this woman? She was born in Worthington, MN then moved to Sibley, IA then on to Des Moines.
ReplyDeleteK Dorr
Stickley Furniture
Leonard Dreckman was the winner of the gas grill at the Fair Board appreciation supper this evening. Thankyou to all that supported this fundraiser.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Leonard!
The fair board had a very nice apprication supper last. The food was good and Little Miss Marcus had fun drawing the winner's name of the grill.
ReplyDeleteKristi
A well-deserved winning ticket! He's always there, helping at the fair ... congrats!
ReplyDelete"I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve." Albert Schweitzer
ReplyDeleteGray Matters: The Olympics
ReplyDeleteWednesday, February 24, 2010
Margaret Dorr
Sometime before the opening of the Vancouver Winter Olympics, I was struck with an inspiration.
Knowing our nephew, Dave Dorr, retired sports writer for the St. Louis Post Dispatch and Sporting News, had covered nine Olympics, six Winter Olympics and three Summer ones, I decided to asked him if he would recount some of his memorable experiences in a couple of guest Gray Matters.
I am sure you will be as delighted as I am that he said yes. The first of these appears today and the second will come next week.
Suddenly, the world was turned upside down. I awoke to a burning candle atop a TV set at the pension in which I was staying in the tiny Bavarian town of Ruhpolding.
Barbara, the owner, spoke only a smattering of English. Gesturing, she struggled to tell me there had been killings at the Olympics in Munich. Killings? But weren't the Olympic Games supposed to be a safe haven, a magical playground, a two-week window of international truce?
The candle? She lit it to honor those who were savagely murdered on Sept. 5, 1972, in an act of terrorism that would forever change the face of the Olympics. I drove quickly the 70 miles on the autobahn to Munich in a Volkswagen Beetle I'd rented, unprepared for what awaited me.
The world, I learned, was put on hold by a series of horrific events that began with members of the Black September, a faction of the Palestine Liberation Organization, scaling a 6 1/2-foot fence ringing the Olympic Village at 4 a.m. They stormed the first-floor apartment in the Village where the delegation from Israel was housed. They seized hostages at gunpoint, killing two, and demanded the release of 234 Arab prisoners in Israeli prisons as well as a Lufthansa 727 to flee to Cairo, Egypt.
Everything came to a tragic conclusion at a military airfield 12 miles away in the Munich suburb of Furstenfeldbruck with the deaths of nine more Israeli athletes and coaches. On ABC, a broadcaster told a stunned American TV audience: "They're all gone." Five terrorists and one policeman also died.
In what was bitter irony, Jewish blood had once again been spilled on German soil, the very memory of which was the reason why Germany had sought these Olympics to show the world it had repudiated swastikas and its Nazi past.
Instead, the Games provided the first world stage for modern terrorism and a cruel signal that the Olympics -- supposed to be a place of purity -- were bound up tightly in politics, like it or not. Yasser Arafat's PLO made a political statement that rippled into every corner of the world.
The enduring TV image of Munich for Americans was a terrorist in a ski mask standing on a balcony of the Olympic Village, not the pixie gymnast from the old Soviet Union, Olga Korbut, or Frank Shorter, the first American in 64 years to win a marathon gold medal, or American swimmer Mark Spitz, who won a record seven gold medals, or even Iowan Dan Gable, who lost his wrestling gold medal, only to find to his great relief that it had slipped under a cardboard stay in the bottom of his gym bag.
Spitz was hustled out of Munich because he is Jewish and there was fear he might be a terrorist target. The bodies of the 11 Israelis were flown to Tel Aviv. The Games continued, but they weren't the same. They weren't majestic anymore.
The Olympics would in the years ahead become a politicized powder keg, torn apart by boycotts and the use of performance-enhancing substances, and turned into big business and a money machine by the International Olympic Committee, which owns the Games.
That was the dark side. On the other side was the artistry of the athletes and national pride that tugs at the heartstrings of millions worldwide.
Munich was the first of nine Summer and Winter Olympics I covered as a journalist for the Sporting News and St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Little did I know in 1972 that more extraordinary Olympic moments than I could possibly imagine lay ahead for me.
We grew up with those memories on the periphery of our lives -- in newspaper headlines, watching Huntley and Brinkley -- while we played basketball every Friday night and learned to drive. I wonder what our own children will remember of 9/11 in the decades to come.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this column, Margaret!