From Our Files

• Jan. 23, 1947

Central Iowa Telephone Co. announced that Hartley and all other towns it served would have an increase in rates. The company stated that the cost of everything entering into the furnishing of telephone service had increased.

Representatives of a large number of local clubs and organizations met to discuss the feasibility of a recreation program for Hartley youth. The enthusiastic commitments of those presented indicated that the program was much needed and would be well supported.

Residents of Hartley and surrounding communities called at the P.A. Leese residence on the occasion of their Golden Wedding Anniversary. Local dignitaries and county officers brought congratulations. The Hartley band also serenaded the couple, who entertained their relatives at a turkey dinner.

• Jan. 20, 1972

Approximately 62 percent of families responded to a music evaluation survey sent out by the Hartley Elementary School. The majority consensus was that a Christmas program of some sort should be held in the evening, and should include grades K-6. The school announced that a program would be presented in 1972.

Adult classes were being held each Monday evening at the Hartley Community School. Topics included first aid, macramé, drama and speech, and cake decorating. There was also a class for athletic officials and an adult farmer class. Attendance ranged from 11 to over 30 participants.

Ron Elkin, of Hartley, joined the Vita Plus Corporation as sales representative for Lyon, O’Brien, Sioux and Osceola counties. Elkin, who operated a farm at Fostoria, was previously a district manager in eastern Iowa for the LaSalle Extension University, of Chicago, Ill.

• Jan. 23, 1997

A water main break in the alley between the GTE and Hartley Antique Mall buildings on First Street Southeast kept the city crew busy. They were working under difficult conditions, with the temperature above freezing for only a couple of days.

The Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn School District recognized the volunteers of the year. Evelyn Rusch, of Hartley, was the individual honoree. She assisted in the elementary school. The staff of Sanborn Funeral Home was recognized for their assistance to classroom teachers and students.

“From Our Files” is compiled by Sentinel-News sports editor/staff writer Mike Petersen.