On behalf of my 80+ year old parents who live in rural Staples, I would like to publicly thank the three young people who helped us get out of the sticky snow on the unplowed road in front of my parent’s driveway. It was the day after Christmas and two young men and one young woman were kind enough to stop and help us.

They put a lot of physical effort into helping us and we tried to pay them for their help, but they said “No, we are from Minnesota and we are nice. No money; we don’t need it.”

Whoever you three young people are, we are so very happy you came by and we greatly appreciate your kindness and help.

Sincerely,

Robert and Betty Crampton and daughter Renee

P.S. Sometimes the world seems to be so negative and uncaring; when a few good people are kind, it really is a sign that there is hope for mankind. Happy New Year.

On behalf of my elderly parents, I would like to thank the Dollar Store for their service with a smile. Everyone is so cordial and helpful when we come in; you deserve a “pat on the back”.

I also want to say that I love my home town.

My life has taken me far and wide, through thick and thin, but I still like “coming home”. I am 56 years old and Dr Lund (who had a cute little brick office next to the depot) helped bring me into the world. I loved going to the movies because I loved the beautiful interior of the old “Movie Palace” theatre. The gorgeous carpet and drapery; the lovely sconces; the place was wonderful to be able to visit. I had a lot of teachers that I liked, but I have to say my two favorites were Mr Norm Card 6th Grade and Mr Kopka in high school. They both new how terribly shy I was and would try ways of getting me “out of my shell”; unfortunately it didn’t work. But, kudos to you for trying. I have never forgotten your kindness. I loved having coffee at the “Spot” with my best friend Diane Flom.

My heart was so proud that my mom was a nurse at the hospital. She loved her work and would come home with a look of pride on her face. Over the years she helped see a lot of people come into the world and go out of the world. My father grew up in Motley and farmed on his parent’s farm for years and years and years. He loves his “home town(s)”.

It has been many years since I lived in my “home town”; but, I do visit often and appreciate those who are still thoughtful and kind.

I love all the wonderful new additions to Staples: The nice new road and lamp signs; the new “Staples” signs; and mostly, the beautiful new hospital (quite an accomplishment for the town). Also, the library will be wonderful to visit. Happy New Year from the Crampton/Carter/Beal families