From Our Files

• Nov. 3, 1949

Ray Smith, of Spencer, purchased Ray’s Texaco from Ray Reinke. Smith took over operation of the service station and motor departments of the business. Reinke remained at the same location, concentrating his efforts on body and fender work, and alignment.

Almost every Melvin business man turned out to work on the new community building. Thirty-eight men congregated with shovels and wheel barrows, and leveled out the ground in the basement of the building. The Melvin American Legion voted to put sheeting on the roof and replace backfill around the building.

Changes were in store for the Hartley football team’s schedule in 1950. Hartley and Sheldon agreed to a two-year contract to play each other the first week of the season. All teams in the Sioux Valley Conference would also play each other with all games counting toward the conference standings. Sioux Rapids withdrew from the conference.

• Oct. 31, 1974

The Hartley Education Association invited high school parents to an open house during which they could attend each of their children’s classes for a short time and have a private conference with their teachers. Parents were encouraged to attend and get involved with their children’s education.

The Hartley Farm Service opened in the former Fuller Grocery building on Central Avenue. The new store, which was managed by Jerry Verhoef, featured a full line of Rath Feeds, bagged or bulk, along with animal health supplies.

The Hartley Low Rent Housing Authority published notices that requested proposals for construction of 10 one-bedroom apartments for the elderly. The local organization had until Dec. 31 to complete arrangements with a developer.

• Nov. 4, 1999

Community Memorial Health Center was recognized for its commitment to the Certified Nurse Assistant Recruitment and Retention Project. A certificate was presented to representatives of the facility during the Iowa Care Givers Association annual conference.

Grand opening activities for the new O’Brien County Extension Office also meant special recognition for past members of the Extension Council. Annette Gebert, of Hartley, was honored for eight years of service that included holding the offices of secretary, vice chairperson and chairperson.

Evan Erichsen was the first vocal student from Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn to be selected as a member of the All-State Choir. H-M-S students who successfully auditioned for the All-State Band were Rachel Funke, bassoon; Rebecca Gerritson, clarinet; and Stacy Vander Velde, tuba.

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