Wright/Cromwell news

This week we have settled into the realization that everything is canceled except grocery shopping, critical medical appointments and emergency travel. At least folks seem to be paying attention and following the guidelines of our health experts.

I, for one, haven’t done much away from home. I did have to make a quick trip to town for much-needed supplies, but did not try to overstock my shelves by hoarding any items. If we do run out of some things, I’m sure we can make do with what we still have on hand.

And speaking of getting our much-needed groceries and supplies, Farmers Co-op manager Tim Bury asked me to let the customers know that you can call the store, give them your order and then pick up your items from your vehicle. I even did that on Sunday just to see how it worked, and it worked well. There have been a couple of volunteers who will deliver your groceries on Thursdays if ordered by Thursday around noon. We know that there are folks who cannot or would prefer not to leave their homes, so this may be a great way to help out. If you are willing to volunteer to help make these deliveries, just call the store at 218-357-2251 and let an employee know. Orders can also be emailed to [email protected].

I believe Minettie at the Village Pump Saloon in Tamarack is also offering curbside deliveries of food if you call in an order: 218-768-7867.

Our sympathy to the Gresczyk family on the passing of Tom Gresczyk, 70, formerly of Moose Lake, who passed away March 22. Funeral arrangements are pending.

The exchange students in our area are headed back to their native countries this week. We can only wish them well, and feel bad that their time here was cut short.

With so many of our snowbirds soon returning to our area, I wonder if they will have to self-quarantine? Let’s hope they all come home virus-free.

All area churches have had to suspend regular worship and Lenten services, so pastors have had to get creative and lead worship via the internet. Pastor Deb-Hanson Carlson, from the area Lutheran congregations, will lead 9:30 a.m. Sunday services online until worship can again be held in the buildings. Don’t forget the financial needs of our area churches. Please continue your regular giving, and, even if you are not a regular churchgoer, this may be the time to consider a donation to keep our churches in the black. Remember, your faith community is always there for you, now it is time for you to be there for them. If you are in need of pastoral care, call the church office at 218-644-3640 or Pastor Deb’s cell phone, 218-340-1968.

I also had the opportunity to hear former pastor Jim Gronbeck as he led worship from his church in Battle Lake. Pastor Jim served at Bethany and Bethlehem from 1984 to 1991.

A few of us have banded together to help people who have school-age children in need of child care during the school closure. If you or someone you know is in need of emergency child care for your elementary school children, please call Brandi Hascall (402-367-9530) or Liz Kabus (218-428-6733) to help get things set up. They cannot guarantee anything, but they will do everything they can to help.

Congratulations to Jeff Gronner and Dave Foster, who were named coaches of the year in Class A. It’s still sad that they didn’t get to finish the season this year, but at least they got to play one game at state, and they won it.

Congratulations to Bill Onstad on his 100th birthday March 27. And since he is unable to celebrate at this time, I think it would be great if he received at least 100 birthday cards in the mail. Cards can be sent to him at Cardinal Court, 1220 Villa Court Drive, Cromwell MN 55726.

Remember, all public events at Cardinal Court and the Villa Vista have been canceled until further notice. So keep those phone calls, cards and letters coming to any of the residents.

All events at the Cromwell Park Pavilion have been canceled, including yoga, YOT and the YOT senior dances. Not sure yet about the next Ruby’s Pantry on April 9. They may pack and bring shares right to vehicles, but I will let you know when I know.

And don’t forget to call or write to Aurelia Hemmila. She’s at Carefree Living, 22027 420th Street, McGregor MN 55760; phone, 218-768-7289. She says she really misses her friends in our area and loves to hear from you.

A couple of weeks ago I got a U.S. Census form in the mail. Everyone really needs to mail theirs in, so you won’t have to be personally visited by a Census taker at your door.

Members of the Area Clothing Depot have decided to close for the time being. Save up your donations for a later date.

Belated congratulations to John and Mary Dahlman on their 50th wedding anniversary March 21. They were married in Floodwood at Hope Lutheran Church in 1970. They will also be featured in the Voyageur Press this week.

I have not heard if the memorial service for James Korhonen, 83, will be held at 2 p.m. March 28 at the Fine Lakes Township Hall. If you know, please pass the word around, as most services are being postponed.

With the situation in our world and having to stay at home most of the time, I thought it would be a great idea to write down some of your favorite memories. Here are some ideas for you to try: most memorable school teacher; favorite place to spend the holidays; favorite holiday traditions; most memorable gift; most memorable time spent with your mother, father, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles. Maybe share these thoughts with your kids and grandkids and others, and then ask them similar questions.

That’s all the news from the Edge of Wright. Be careful and stay safe.