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 Holabird AdvocateProviding all the news we see fit to print since 2002!Sunday, July 28, 2013 Publisher's Birthday Party Full of Surprises
Harold and Mary Hinkle still have a surprise or two up their sleeves They arrived in Beautiful Downtown Mitchell around 11:30 in the morning, meeting Jerry Hinkle at the parking lot of the Mitchell Public Library, which is the current home office of the Holabird Advocate. Harold then set about rotating the tires of Jerry's car.
After the rotating was done, They took Jerry to Walgreen's to show him the bargain price the store had for milk. Problem was, that when they got there, it was discovered that the milk was no bargain, in fact it was 50 cents more than the milk at Buche Foods. No milk was bought that morning, but they did meet the guy who rent's Agnes Hahn's old house.
Ken And Jo Hansen joined the Hinkle's at the Depot a little later than the prearranged 1 pm time, but better late than never. Jo presented Jerry with a dozen chocolate pecan brownies, and the group started to remember the first, and last, time they were all together at the Depot. Eventually the server brought over everyone's respective vittles, and they started to eat. After the dinner was over, Mary surprised Jerry with a Chocolate cake with Chocolate frosting. His 46th birthday would not have been quite as festive had she not have done that.
The last surprise came at the time Jerry drove home later that evening when the "check tire pressure" warning came on. Jerry reset the computer to make sure though, and it hasn't happened since.
Downsizing at the Holabird Advocate
In this economy, we all have to cut something. So Effective Aug 1, we are going to put the Holabird Advocate Blogger site, the site you are reading now into mothballs. We might have a Special Report now and then as events warrant, but as is happens so often our Publisher is experiencing burnout. Those of you who are regular Readers know this, and it isn't fair to allow you to expect the usual quality of writing when it clearly isn't going to happen. We will be concentrating on our Facebook site for the present time. This site has been a labor of love for all of us here at the Holabird Advocate, and as such will never go away completely. If you have not "liked" our page on Facebook, we encourage you to do so. Sometimes when times change we have to change with them, and hope for better days. Thanks to all of you Readers in advance for past 11+ years of fun. It's not over yet, just moving to a new location!
Tuesday, July 16, 2013 New Downtown Business in Mitchell
Thursday afternoon was a very warm, windy, and sunny day. Just right for a ribbon cutting. Our Publisher, who has never attended such an event, decided it was time to do just that. It was an insteresing ocasion.
Mike Dittmer is the proud owner of Deadwood Mike's Sportscards & Collectibles, a full service sportscards and collectibles shop dealing in sportscards for every sport, both single cars a packs of same. There are also with a variety of card storage options as well. Deadwood Mike's also has a selection of die cast Nascar, MLB hats, and other assorted collectibles. Also available are Xyience Energy Drinks, Sew Simply Farmer Girl, Baysinger Honey, and Advocare Products. Gift certificates are available as well. They accept checks, major credit cards, and even cash if you have it. All kids get free gum!
Deadwood Mike's is open from Tues-Sat. 9 am-6 pm Sun. 10 am-4 pm
All of us here at the Holabird Advocate wish them well in this venture.
Farmers Market Thursday Opening Delayed
Wind postponed the opening of the Thursday Farmer's Market, however the usual Saturday Farmer's Market went as planed. Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle picked up a dozen eggs and 2 lbs of ground turkey from the Colony, and it only set him back $6.25. Next Thursday being Jerry's birthday, would be a great time to try it again!
Twinkies Are Back by Jerry Hinkle
Yesterday, the first batch of Twinkies have landed on store shelves all over the world. Time will tell if the next time around will be any improvement. As for me, I'm less them impressed. I went to Walmart to do a little comparison shopping. I discovered that not only does Little Debbie have there own version of the Twinkie, but so does Sara Lee. Not surprisingly, Walmart also has a knock-off version of America's favorite snack cake: the Cloud Cake.
I purchased a box of both Twinkies and Cloud Cakes. The new Twinkie is visibly smaller than the Cloud Cake, and it weighs less as well: 38.5 grams compared to the Cloud Cake's 80 grams. There is, to me at least, no difference in the taste and texture. The kicker is that the Cloud Cakes are 50 cents cheaper in the 10 count box. We'll see if the change of management will help keep Twinkies on the shelves and in demand. I hope those of you who have missed Twinkies all this time are not disappointed. Don't you just feel sorry for those people who paid $1000 for the "last box" of Twinkies? I'd whole lot rather have a creme filled cupcake myself. God be with you and do the best you can!
Thursday, July 11, 2013 Publisher Gets Pleasant Surprise
July has been a month of surprises for Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle, but his luck, if indeed he has any, turned around-slightly. He was listening to the oldies station on the radio in the morning when the "Slogan Mania" quiz came on. He was the first person to call in that knew Kix Cereal had the slogan "Kid tested-Mother approved". The prize? A $5 gift certificate to The Depot. Jerry is taking this as a sign that this is the place to hold his birthday celebration. as it happens, they open at 11:30, which gives the hosts, Harold and Mary Hinkle ample time to get back to the Ponderosa where rumor has it, Darrel Hinkle will be cooking a picnic ham.
Downtown Happenings
Thursday night is busting with things to do in beautiful downtown Mitchell. At the Corn Palace Tourist Plaza, the Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting for Deadwood Mike's Sportscards at 4:30. Also The Mitchell Farmer's Market will be open this Thursday and every Thursday until Sept 26 from 4:30-7 at the corner of 5th and Main. The Holabird Advocate will be at both events should anything newsworthy take place!
Wednesday, July 10, 2013  Ambassadors Play the Matterhorn
All of us here at the Holabird Advocate were shocked to find out that the group that Brittany Hinkle and Christopher Nemec were a part of was not South Dakota Music Ambassadors, but Mid West Ambassadors of Music. but, since nobody corrected us, we can only assume that nobody cares, but that's how it goes.
Here is a photo of the Ambassadors at the Matterhorn in Switzerland. If you can pick out the two delegates for Holabird, you're doing better than our Publisher. Quite a group! As we understand it they will be playing in Italy, Germany, and Greece before coming back home.
Publisher Gets Surprised
We were working on a storyline, providing Holabird Advocate Publisher had the time off, about a surprise party for his birthday, which is coming up. The headline was going to read, had everything panned out, "Parents Throw Publisher to Have Surprise Party at Chef Louie's". The body of the story was going to relate that the party, while not a surprise to Jerry was going to be a HUGE surprise to his parents.
It would have happened, but for one detail. The party is at noon and Chef Louie's opens at 5pm. Jerry did get the day off from the Hut, so getting Jerry to the party will be easier. Finding a venue seems to be the tricky part. A lot of restaurants in the Kornfield County area are busy at noon on Thursday for some reason. Oh well, if they weren't busy they'd have to close.
More Market Research
The Holabird Advocate Circulation Department has shown us some interesting data that on the surface is not that shocking. That being, at least in our Facebook audience, that there is absolutely nobody between the ages of 13-24. This is not necessarily bad news, as we don't cater to that age group, nor do we plan to. The audience is made up of about 60% female and 40% male. We could increase the male demographic if we got our Publisher to take of his tie, put on a cap and some jeans and learn how to belch louder.
Wednesday, July 03, 2013 Ambassador's European Tour Continues
The South Dakota Musical Ambassadors are still making their way across Europe. Some of them are not impressed by the wine out there. It took our Publisher 40 years to figure out the best wine, yet he still prefers chocolate milk. There have been reports that some of the Ambassadors were caught licking the Eiffel Tower. Harold Hinkle might have a frozen pump handle or two that these kids might like to try.
Working on the 4th
Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle, will be working 2 shifts at the Hut on the 237th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration! he is hoping to slip on over to the picnic at Dakota Discovery to hear the band play in between shifts. Time will tell if he sees fireworks. If not a live display there is always the possibility of fireworks videos on YouTube! That's the beauty of the 21st century, one can be by themselves and still have a party!
Surprise Birthday Party for Publisher
With Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle about to turn 46 in about 2 weeks time, Harold and Mary Hinkle, who conceived, and in part, gave birth to Jerry, have arranged their busy schedules to come to Mitchell and celebrate his birthday. It's been reported that they will be meeting Ken and Joan Hansen however that report has not been confirmed. The surprise part will actually be if Jerry shows up to this party, because he may have to work at the Hut. Also, they have to trick Jerry into showing up at the party venue without tipping him off. We'll have more on this story as events warrant!
Monday, July 01, 2013 Publisher takes Trip to Tripp
When our little Newsblog was founded back in 2002, It was to tell the world that there were stories to be told in the middle of nowhere. Believe it or not, many people in the world were blissfully ignorant of the existence of Holabird, SD until finding this website. Since we moved our operations from Holabird to Mitchell, we've become a little more sophisticated and uptown, but we will never forget our small town roots!
Some time ago, Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle, read the Daily Republic to see what they knew, and we spotted an article about the new grocery store in Tripp, SD. It's the fourth store of the Buche Foods chain. He read that Trip is a mere 35 miles away, about the same as a trip from the Ponderosa to Ree Heights. Since today is "Milk Monday" and Jerry had the whole day off, he decided a road Trip was in order to see the "Barn Burner Specials". Jerry did pick up a few bargains, but not before giving the store a good looking over. The store didn't appear to be busy, but it was mid morning. It was very clean as well. Perhaps he's been in the big city too long! Unlike most small town grocery stores that he's seen, this one takes credit cards. He went to the Gus Stop, but that didn't appear to be open, or even ready for business yet. When it is, that will be a good excuse to come back to Tripp!
Jerry stopped in Parkston on the way back to the big city to get fuel. That seems like a nice little town as well. The ladies at the Casey General Store seemed to be impressed with Buche's as well. They also had nice things to say about County Fair in Mitchell. Jerry never asked and they never told about the grocery stores in Parkston. That could be another adventure for another time.
Ambassadors Cross the Pond for European Tour
The South Dakota Musical Ambassadors have been putting on the miles since leaving for Europe. London was the first stop, where the group, including Holabird's own Brittany Hinkle and Christopher Nemec, performed at Wesley Chapel and the park.They were also able to see "Wicked and "The Lion King" Next stop is Paris!
Wednesday, June 26, 2013 Music Ambassador Hinkle Readies for European Tour
Brittany Hinkle and the other South Dakota Music Ambassadors will be setting off for Greece and many other European countries. Brittany is taking her mother, Kristi Hinkle along, leaving Shelby Hinkle in charge until they get back. Brit and Kristi will be leaving at around midnight tonight, and they will be gone for a spell, All of us here at the Holabird Advocate wish them well on their journey. Our Publisher hopes they can pick him up some of that Greek yogurt if they have time, and if they could make it chocolate, that would be excellent.
Circulation Reports Show Facebook Over Blogger
The Holabird Advocate Circulation Department has been doing some market research. What they have found is interesting, but not necessarily shocking. They have discovered that the Blogger page shows an average readership of 7 people each day. Meanwhile the Holabird Advocate Facebook page has an average of 24 people with a recent spike of 269 people. For some reason, very few of the people reached bother to check out the site. All of us here at the Holabird Advocate are wondering why that is, although we have a few suspicions.
DOMA Unconstitutional, so now what? by Jerry Hinkle
Apparently, while I was busy being courageous and dynamic offline, the Supreme Court declared the Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional. For years now, we've been told that allowing gays to marry would destroy the instution of matrimony. Time will tell if that happens.
For now, I'd be happy if this action means that all of those equal signs could be removed from FB profiles pictures and we can all go back to posting pics of our children, pets, and what we are eating for dinner in their place.
I have a few friends who are of the gay community, and some of them are looking to get married. If they do, I wish them well. but once they do, they'd better make double darn sure this is what they want. Critics of gay marriage will be watching and waiting for a rash of gay divorces to start. So if y'all got the right, don't abuse it. Then in 50 years or so, invite me to your Golden wedding anniversay, and we'll talk about it. Until then, God be with you and do the best you can! Monday, June 24, 2013  Hinkles Enter Golden Years
Harold and Mary Hinkle celebrated their Golden Wedding on their on terms, doing what they love the most. As it happens, their anniversary fell on a weekend, so they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by going to garage sales, Oahe Days at Steamboat Park and going to a family supper at the Cattleman's Club Steak House near Pierre. They also took a boat ride on the Missouri and fished a little. As Mary Hinkle said "We are starting on our next 50 years. How far can we go?" In the words of the great philosopher, Red Green, "You're only limited by your own imagination and the law in your area". As long as they stay happy and healthy together, one can't ask for much more.
What Makes a South Dakotan?
The South Dakota Humanities Council held a conversational forum at the Dakota Discovery Museum Saturday afternoon. Several open ended questions were asked about what makes South Dakota and the people who live there different from the rest of society and what makes them the same as everyone else. Quite a few people showed up, and Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle, was one of them. During the introduction part of the forum, he described himself as a Holabird native, which prompted another participant to ask about Wayne "Breezy" Peterson. South Dakota is indeed a small world!
So did the assembled company figure out who is the typical South Dakotan is? Not Really! South Dakota's infinite variety is found not only in it's nature, but it it's people as well. A South Dakotan is a product of the environment in which he or she is placed. From the flat prairie in the East, to the black hills of the west and even in the river valley that divides them, South Dakota as a diverse population made up of people form different ethnic backgrounds, different shapes sizes religions creeds and colors united by the invisible bond of a political boundary that sets it apart from the rest of the population.
Over 700,000 stories are able to be told in this state. The book, which provided the reference points for the form discussion provides a drop in the proverbial bucket. Each State and Region of this nation has their own heritage that sets it apart, and yet people are people That's why someone could be able to come for a visit and end up staying here. President Calvin Coolidge liked South Dakota because it was less expensive to live here. E.E. Hinkle liked it here because even though the weather was troublesome, the pace of live was just his gait. He visited California during the wintertime, but preferred. the peace and quiet of the South Dakota prairie. Everyone who calls this state home has their own reason for doing so.
There is an old saying that "Good fences make good neighbors" But in South Dakota, it's more like "Good neighbors make good fences" Neighbors come in handy when the cows get out or the barn is on fire. They are a cold drink of water on a hot day.
My Thoughts on Paula Deen by Jerry Hinkle
Dear Readers, I must confess that I never heard of Ms. Deen until she made news the hard way last week. This has become a hot button issue, and one that has a lot of people, myself included, shaking their heads. As offensive as her action were, I fail to see how putting her and her sins up on display for all to see has accomplished. The alleged comedians at the Daily Show making fun of her weight kind of made me sympathize with her just a tad, with a little bit of empathy mixed in. It's always interesting to see that even among the politically correct, it's still OK to make fun of fat people! All because she used a term that I'm quite sure did not apply to Jon Stewart.
As for her losing the Food Network gig, I've seen some people express the opinion that the network went to far, while others think that she deserves far worse. In this case, The network did what they thought was right, so I'll let them off the hook. Would I have done the same? Well, if she did her job, and did it well, I'd have kept her on unless their was no other. I mean, yes, it's true she used language that clearly the best of people should never say even privately, but truth be told, at that time I used the same language. I don't have the excuse that I lived in South Georgia before the Civil Rights movement. I just didn't know any better, and worse yet I didn't care. Now, I know better and I don't care to use that term, and I bristle when others use it, as I suppose we all should. Over time I learned that it wasn't right. Ms. Deen is learning that as well, but the lesson is going to be slightly more expensive for her. I hope that she, and others as well take this learning experience to heart and use it to become better people. God be with you and do the best you can!
Friday, June 21, 2013 Home Office Closed Tomorrow
To read the Front Page these days, you might not think that the home office of the Holabird Advocate is ever open. It is, but there hasn't been much to write about. That not withstanding, we are closing the home office tomorrow in order to allow our Publisher to take part in the Farmers Market, the benefit for the Mitchell Food Pantry at Resurrection Lutheran, and the forum at Dakota Discovery on "What makes a South Dakotan". With any luck we will have the home office set up at the Corn Palace on Sunday Afternoon. Come on over, shake hands and say "Howdy"!
My Pledge to Retire the R Word by Jerry Hinkle
As anyone who has been a faithful Reader of our little Newsblog for the past 11 years knows and could tell you, I fully support the 1st Amendment in all of it's forms, and as such despise political correctness whenever possible. Whenever I give my opinion, I welcome the other point of view to be included. When I edit someone Else's submission, I may edit the form, but never the content. However, it has come to my attention that, according to some, a certain word beginning with R needs to be retired from the American vocabulary. I am not going to try to convince any of you Readers to join me in this pledge, but certainly hope you will.
This move to retire the R word is not a new thing, in fact it's been around for a while. The fact that it has taken me this long to make the pledge is regrettable. When I heard how a certain alleged comedian made reference to a politician's son who happens to have down syndrome by using the word, I felt compelled to action.
In my family, we pick on each other, sometimes quite severely. If anyone outside the family called one of my relatives by that word, as the so called comedian did to that little boy whose only real sin is having a mother in the public eye, I'd take offense to it. As it happens, I have a cousin, with Downs Syndrome. Her name is Anne. Y'all Readers should meet he when you have the chance, because she is a very inspirational young lady. Yes, I do pick on her, but she is usually able to give back as good as she gets so that makes it even. Sometimes, she gets on my nerves, but then so do some people who don't have Downs, so that's a wash as well. The point is, she doesn't deserve that label. I've been called by the R Word my self a time or two myself, but I can take it. If you want to insult her, call her an old maid, call her Ginger (Call her Merry Anne if you dare), but do not use the R word. None of the best people do, which is why I've taken the pledge.
It's been pointed out that ignorance knows no political affiliation. Beside the unfunny comedian, there was a conservative commentator who called the President buy that word, and did not see the wrong she was doing. A lot of people have, though, so it's all good! As for me, my R Word is Respect!
God be with you and do the best you can!
Wednesday, June 19, 2013 Fifty is Nifty by Jerry Hinkle
It has been a busy week for me. So busy that I see that I missed Father's day! But I have some time between that and my parents anniversary to say a few things. I have mentioned, on occasion in the past, that, at least by my perception, that I had it rough growing up. I must say that I've noticed as I get older my perception has altered slightly. As rough as that time was,I was not alone. We all experience that.
My Dad did not spoil me, but he did not neglect me either. As he was not perfect nor I. In fact, I was a constant source of disappointment to him. But we both did our dead level best to deal with things as they were. As I look back, I can honestly say that had I been in his place, I'd have done like he did. We each have to take the bad with the good. In the eyes of the world, my dad may not be much. After all, he's only had an 8th grade education, and he only grew up to be a farmer and rancher, but he is more. It's true his education didn't take him far, but he was still able to put on the uniform of this great country and he served this great country honorably, as only a true Hinkle can. While serving, in Germany, he was selected to be an escort to the Burgermeister's daughter. Not bad!
He also married well! So well that he and my mother will be celebrating 50 years together. Was he a perfect husband? I suspect he was as perfect as his bride. He may not have brought candy and flowers to her twice a year, but he darn sure never smacked her in the face for burning dinner. Real love is not thinking the other person is perfect. It's knowing the other person is flawed, but overlooking those flaws, hoping they will do the same. Now 50 years is hardly a record, but it's a good start and better than most. They've done their friends family and neighbors proud. If the Lord is willing, they'll keep on doing just that. God be with you and do the best you can!
Saturday, June 15, 2013 Pottymouth Makes Fool of Herself at Dunkin Donuts
All of us here at that Holabird Advocate have been just a tad bewildered at the woman who launched into a profanity laced tirade that some of called racist. some of the things that were heard on this video have caused some of us to wonder if the whole thing was on the level, or some kind of act. Had this woman looked at the video before posting she'd surely see that she isn't helping her cause.
So what was her complaint? She seemed to be disgruntled because she wasn't given a receipt. Since there is no DD in this area, we have nobody to contact for context of the complaint. However most of the better eating places to offer to give the customer a receipt of their order. One wondered how she can prove that she didn't get one. During her 8 minutes of infamy, the irate customer also accused them of spitting and urinating in her food, but there was no clear evidence that such a thing took place. This is a clear exception to the rule "The customer is always right". This customer could not have been more wrong. Still, she supposedly was booked on the Today Show, so what do we know!
Clouds Cool Pool Party
Last Sunday some people at Fusion got together at one of the cities better residences for a pool party which was, as we understand it to be a potluck affair, since they are Methodists and all. The hosts did good a pork loin, but Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle, who went despite not knowing how to swim, did not get any. As it happens the clouds overhead did not put many of the adults in a swimming mood, but the children didn't seem to mind. The pool, after all, was heated. Jerry cut his visit short because he had to get to the Hut, because they were very busy, and he was needed. Hopefully it will warm up before the next one.
Wednesday, June 05, 2013 Voter Fraud in School Board Election
Yesterday's school board elections had a few interesting results, including an unusual allegation of voter fraud. Deb Olsen and Rick Johnson were rather handily elected to the board. While a man whose name is unworthy of mention on the Front Page of our little Newsblog had been accused of trying ti vote twice, once t the polling place and another time at the Courthouse as an absentee voter. The Absentee vote was declared spoiled. The vote was lopsided enough that it didn't matter. Our friends at the Daily Republic report that 1707 votes were cast, making the voter turnout about 14%, which is about double the amount of voters that cast a ballot in 2007. Impressive!
Sidewalk Wine Sale Legal in Mitchell
Soon we will all be able to buy wine on the sidewalks of beautiful downtown Mitchell. Last Monday the City Council voted 5-2 to allow the ordinance to pass. While none of us here at the Holabird Advocate know exactly how it will work, we've been assured that it will.There is some concern that there will be certain consequences to this action, but we are keeping an open mind. If the availability of wine on the big city sidewalks becomes a problem, it can be undone. As it happpens there has been talk of putting the issue to a public vote. This, of course, means fun days are ahead for all of us here at the Holabird Advocate.
CCC Historian has Program at Library
Imagine, you're 17 years old trying to survive during the Great Depression. Life is tough, food is scarce, jobs are non-existent, and you've turned to petty crime to eke out a living. One day you hear about a new job works program created by the federal government that pays a dollar-a-day, The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). You soon find yourself spending long days planting trees and building roads. Over the next year, you put on 20 pounds, develop good work habits, gain confidence and make life-long friends. The job skills you learn help you find a job when you leave camp. Your experience in the CCC turns out to be the most important event in your life. It turned you from a boy into a man.
Since 1992, Bill Jamerson has researched the CCC. He produced a documentary for Michigan PBS, recorded a CD of songs, and wrote a historical novel. He presents "Dollar-A-Day Boys" all across the Midwest. Over 2.5 million men enlisted in the corps and today, their children and grandchildren have a keen interest in it. They often show up with CCC photo albums and memorabilia; they also share wonderful stories about their relatives with the audience. The story of the CCC has universal appeal because it's about underdogs who are given a second chance. Bill also presents CCC motivational assemblies at middle and high schools. Students love stories about teens and the struggles they experienced during The Great Depression. Jamerson presented such a show at the Mitchell Public Library, and our Publisher gives it a hearty endorsement.Jesus submitted by Mary Hinkle
Jesus died over 2000 years ago. Nobody has ever referred to HIM as the late Jesus, Not even the heathens. Nowhere in history. Nowhere has HE ever been referred to in the past tense.HE 'is' the Living God! When Jesus died on the cross HE was thinking of you! May God Smile on You Today!
Sunday, June 02, 2013 Jean Stapleton, TV's "Dingbat" Dies at age 90
Yesterday, all of us here at the Holabird Advocate got word that "All in the Family" star, Jean Stapleton died last Friday. She was 90. Stapleton will be remembered most for her portrayal of Edith Baines Bunker, possibly the kindest television character to ever grace the small screen. If Archie was the soul of the Bunker family, Edith was the heart. Of course, Ms. Stapleton was more than just Mrs. Bunker. She had many roles on the Broadway stage as well. All told, she had been an active member of the show biz community for 70 years. While she, like Edith may be gone, her work lives on, thanks to YouTube and other sources, and all of us here at the Holabird Advocate feel sure her talent will stand the test of time!
Earl to Church
Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle, was very pleased to see his coffee buddy, Earl, back in his usual pew at church this morning. It was 3 weeks ago tonight that Jerry went to the hospital to see that he was not in his room. While he was sure that Earl was in the best of all capable hands, Jerry was glad to see it for himself today. Jerry was not by himself inn this regard, as several people at church were glad to see Earl after all that time away! The best part is that Earl looks well considering his slight setback in April. For someone who will turn 98 in September, Earl is indeed in remarkable shape. We should all be that well at his age!
Saturday, June 01, 2013 9 year old Girl vs. McD's by Jerry Hinkle
While it hasn't made us break any records-yet-the story of the 9 year old who had words with the CEO of McDonald's has been giving us a steady stream of Google traffic since we posted the story a few days ago. It's been trending an Yahoo as well. It's a story that just won't go away.
The MSM would like to make this a David and Goliath story, but there is a certain element that is siding with the fast food giant. In the interest of full disclosure, I'm a member of an investment club that holds McD's stock. I'm not sure how much stock the 9 year old girl has, but it must have been enough to get her in the door. If not her, then it must have been her mother's stock.
Even if I was not a stockholder, I'd side with McD's because they are not using cartoon characters to trick children into eating unhealthy food. Children of all ages are eating at McD's because the food is pleasing. It has NOTHING to do with cartoon characters. Ronald McDonald himself could go on TV and tell me that raw broccoli tastes like chocolate covered sex, but I wouldn't fall for it, and neither would the so called gullible children to whom McD's is supposedly marketing.
Some are criticizing the mother of this girl for exploiting her in order to gain support and publicity for her own project that supposedly educates children about healthy food choices. I don't know is that is what she is doing. Hopefully this girl is sincere about what she and the CEO discussed. I also applaud the mother for raising her child to make healthy food choices. That said, I believe that she and her daughter went about this all wrong. Then again we are still talking about it. Maybe something could get done at that. Time will tell! God be with you and do the best you can!
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 Judge Makes Credit Card Company Eat Teenager's $54K Charge
The Christian Post reports this most interesting item that y'all may find amusing: A teen's $54,000 bar tab may sound outrageous, but what is equally surprising is that a judge recently rules it’s the credit card company that will need to pay the huge bill.The $54000 bar tab story may sound like an exaggeration, but for this 16-year-old who decided to use his father’s credit card to have a fun night out, it’s anything but. The bar-spending spree story dates back to 2010 in the Kyoto District of Japan, when the male teen took the Platinum Express card and bought a massive amount of alcohol at different bars. Yet a recent judge ruling has found that it is the credit card company that will need to pay the fines — a combination of alcohol prices and club fees — and that the different club and bar owners should in fact be held responsible as well for allowing the 16-year-old to spend that much money. While it may indeed be a controversial ruling, it does seem to make a valid point.
Lipstick on Presidential Collar
On the way to the home office, our Publisher found out that President Obama was caught with lipstick on his collar that was not the First Lady's shade. While Obama isn't the first President to get caught in this situation, he is the first to make the news because of it. All of us here at the Holabird Advocate are glad to find out that the whole thing was an harmless little accident, we are also pleased that, unlike Bill Clinton, Obama didn't get anybody's dress dirty! Now, if only the President could get gasoline down to $1.59 like it used to be, we'd be happy as a movie star with a new divorce!
Les Miserables: A Review by Jerry Hinkle
Someone from DWU theatre suggested I watch them movie "Les Miserables". I thought that would be the perfect way to kick off a new Summer series of reviews. So I filed that away for later. Recently I found 2 movie versions of the classice Victor Hugo work. One that was priced at $9, starring Gerard Depardieu, and one that went for $12 that starred Hugh Jackman.
As tempting as saving $3 was, I wanted to enjoy this movie, so I went with Jackman. It's a good thing that I did that. Jackman has quite a powerful singing voice, which is good, because most of the movie dialogue is sung. This gives the movie an operatic appearence. The best part is that it was in English, so I could follow the action. The singing made the performance more emotionally driven to the point that one could feel the emotions, good or bad as they came.
The strong point of this movie is the roles of Jean Valjean and Javert. a good story needs a flawed hero and a sympathetic villain. It's hard to imagine a villain more deserving of sympathy that Valjean, and a hero more flawed than Javert. Russel Crowe, who is well know for having flaws, brings a certain dialikability to the role of Javert.
The week point is that this movie so freaking long. it clocks in at 2 hours and 38 minutes. I feel asleep in the middle of this thing. Hopefully I didn't misss any important plot points. This one handycap did not rob me of too much enjoyment. i plan to watch this movie again, perhaps a few chapters at a time, when my schedules is not so tight! Until then, God be with you and do the best you can!
Tuesday, May 28, 2013 Burger King Employee Stalls ThievesAs two hamburlgars stormed the Burger King restaurant in Stockton brandishing guns and demanding cash, an employee snuck out a back door, according to KOVR-TV in Sacramento.The employee found the thieves' idling getaway vehicle in the parking lot, hopped in and drove off, stashing the car around the block."I haven't heard of any employee actually leaving a business, getting inside the suspect vehicle and trying to hide it," Stockton officer Joe Silva told reporters.When the thieves realized their car had been taken, then took off on foot and hid in a nearby field.Police soon found the two suspects, Gabriel Gonzalez and Jeremy Lovitt, and arrested them. They've been charged with armed robbery.Family Reunion at Menards
Harold and Mary Hinkle went to Grandma Dressen's funeral last Saturday in Kimbal. They slipped over to Mitchell to look see their son, Jerry Hinkle, who had just got off from his first shift at Pizza Hut when they hit town. Jerry did such a good job that he was given a bacon cheeseburger crazy cheesy pizza, and even though Harold and Mary ate at the funeral, each of them took a slice. Then the 3 of them looked through the garden center for a while, Harold and Mary took separate shopping carts around, filling them with whatever struck their fancy. after getting it all paid for, They and Jerry separated, as he was getting tired and needed a nap before his second shift at the Hut. Harold and Mary went to Cabela's and then headed for home, stopping at Fort Thompson to see about getting a free prime rib dinner.
Monday, May 27, 2013 Holabird Advocate Publishes 1600th Edition
Off and on for about 11 and a half years all of us here at the Holabird Advocate have been bringing the world a little slice of life from what the rest of the nation calls "flyover country" What we do here had never been done before, and from what we've seen it's not being done now. Throughout the world, many have tried to describe and even explain our little newsblog, but it's something that can only be experienced. When our Publisher put this thing together, mixing everyday life and small town gossip along with politics and religion, he wasn't sure how long he could keep it going. We've had breaks when not much was going on, but we now have 1600 posts behind us. We've come a long way in the time we've been given. A lot has changed, but one thing has remained constant: if there is a story that our Publisher thinks needs to be told, it'll be told, and told truthfully whenever possible.
So Long Duffets
Dr. Robert "Bob" Duffet and his wife Connie will be leaving the Mitchell area Friday. Dr. Duffet has been the President of DWU for 13 years, and was recently given an opportunity in the Philadelphia area that was too good to pass up. All of us here at the Holabird Advocate wish to avoid the rush and with them well now, hopefully it won't be one of those Minnesota goodbyes. Dr. and Mrs. Duffet have been an inspiration to a lot of people and will be missed by several as they leave us. They have exhibited a certain dignity, elegance and class that one would expect of people of their station, but they are also humble, kind and gentle. They are ready for this next leg in their life journey, that we know. We do wonder if those at the school in Philadelphia know the true worth of the great blessing that will befall them. If not, they soon will be!
Top Ten Sermon by Jerry Hinkle
People who serve in the ministry have a hard job. They have to spiritually feed the flock that they have been entrusted to by God for a whole week. There are some who must wonder if anyone is listening. Of the sermons that I have heard there is a rare breed that lives on past the one week mark. I call them "top ten" sermons. I've only heard 6 of them myself, but I wrote 3 of them.
The most recent to ten sermon was delivered by Dr. Boyd Blumer at the Mitchell Fusion service yesterday morning. He spoke of the Potters shop in Jeremiah and the creation of human life in Genesis and brought them both together in an interesting way. The Potter made useful things from the dirt that his assistant provided. In much the same way God takes the dirt that we give him and makes something useful things out of it. In fact, we were all made by God from the dust of the earth, made useful by his breathing the breathe of life into us. He tells it better than I can, but I'm sure you get the idea.
There are times when I wonder if God, or even my neighbor, has use for me. There are some jars of clay that take longer to make than others, but I know that he is still working on me. As long as the breathe of life is inside me, there is still time for me to be made useful, to serve God's purpose. Even though it's only been a little over a day, I know that the message I heard will stick to me like oatmeal. I hope that all of you who are reading were fed in spirit, just as I was! God be with you and do the best you can!
Friday, May 24, 2013 Pope Says "Atheists can get to Heaven"?
Earlier this week Pope Francis supposely made the claim that atheists can get into heaven. All of us here at the Holabird Advocate have been scrambling to find the exact quote, but have yet to find it. we are curious, however as to how atheists can get into the Kingdom of Heaven when they don't acknowlege the existence of heaven or hell, and for that matter God or Satan. By definition an atheist would not desire to go to a place that does not exist. Anyone wishing to help us with ironing out this story, feel free to contact our Publisher at the home office.
Family Visits Abound in Kornfield County
Most of the time, Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle, is able to keep to himself when he's not at work. But throughout the month of May, many family members who find themselves in Kornfield county, have dropped by to see him. First it was Darrel, Kristi and Brittany Hinkle who stopped by on Mother's day, and took Jerry to Ruby Tuesday. Last Wednesday, Deputy State Fire Marshall Doug Hinkle stopped by and took Jerry to Culvers. And now it seems that Harold and Mary Hinkle may stop by on tomorrow after Grandma Dressen's funeral. If indeed they do come over, they will most likely go to McDonald's. You never Know!
Thursday, May 23, 2013 9 Year-old Lectures McDonald's CEO on Nutrition
While waiting to the Rotary to convene at the Ramada, our Publisher read an online story in the USA TODAY, also known as "Cousin Al's Newspaper". The article was all about this 9 year old girl who addressed the CEO of McDonald's Corporation during the annual shareholders meeting. She apparently studied up on child nutrition beforehand and also the was McD's targets children in their advertising, closing by pointedly asking the CEO, "Mr. Thompson, don't you want kids to be healthy so they can live a long and healthy life?".
CEO Don Thompson quickly responded "We don't sell junk food. My kids also eat McDonald's.We cook lots of fruits and veggies at home,". He also stated that McDonald's sells fruits in the form of apple slices in kids meals and vegetables including side salads on the Dollar Menu. He also said that McDonald's recently began to sell fat-free chocolate milk. Mr. Thompson then thanked the girl for bringing this issue up.
Rotary Holds Election Forum by Jerry Hinkle
Since becoming a registered voter here in the Mitchell area, I've tried to keep myself and anyone else so inclined to listen, informed about local issues. As such, I felt compelled to leave the home office and attend today's Rotary meeting at the Ramada to see what, if anything the School Board candidates had to say. As it happens, I learned quite a few things.
The first thing I learned was that just a few days ago, Sioux Falls had a School Board election with a 3% turnout. Hopefully we can do better. The second thing I learned is that another big issue seems to be the implementation of a $55 Million school building project that has been suggested. That's nearly twice what the proposed Next Generation Corn Palace was projected to cost. Not surprisingly none of the candidates spoke in favor of the new proposal. One of the candidates (who shall remain nameless because I don't want the other 3 to demand equal time) looked into the new building project that Brookings did, and had a table full of information about it. From what I saw, their new school cost about 10% of the proposed project. Quite formidable!
I'll not be endorsing any candidates for the School Board at this time, because I haven't quite made up my mind yet. I have until June 4 to figure it out. Hopefully I will do just that. God be with you and do the best you can!
Tuesday, May 21, 2013  Hinkles Celebrate 69 Years!With the Golden Anniversary of Harold and Mary Hinkle coming up, our Publisher missed a different special occasion for the Hinkle family, the 69th anniversary of his Uncle Don and Aunt LaRayne. The year was 1944. The American way of life was being threatened by a global conflict. A young South Dakota couple were getting married at a military installation in the San Diego Area. The groom was a Marine, heading to the Pacific Theatre of the war, believing only that God would keep him safe. Since their wedding day, Don and LaRayne have been through war and peace, sadness and joy, poverty and wealth, taking the bad along with the good for 69 years, one day at a time. Each time that they were separated, it was not by choice, for they always looked forward to returning each one to the other. There love has stood the test of time, even now in an era when everything including marriages are disposable. When they said "Til death do we part" they meant it. That is what it will take to end this, one of the great love stories of all time, at least in a little place called Holabird!Ringing Golden Bells at the River
After experiencing a certain level of pressure to find some way to celebrate the Golden Anniversary of his parents, Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle spent much time in prayer looking for the answer. The answer came from his mother. Mary Hinkle told her oldest son that she and Harold Hinkle will be toasting to each other on the river, fishing with Ken and Joan Hansen. Joan served as Mary's Maid of Honor, so that is a nice touch. If they could get Maurice Ham over there to join them, that would be a real photo opportunity. We'll have more on this as events warrant.
The Cheese Stands Alone by Jerry Hinkle
Yesterday when I clicked the "Publish" button yesterday, all I had planned for the next edition was to review the new Star Trek movie. I went, saw the movie, was overwhelmed in places, underwhelmed in others, and by the time it was over I was too keyed up to sleep, so I went to the Ramada to get online, relax a while and unwind. When I saw that I was tagged in a photo on Facebook, I was mildly curious. It was the photo that appears beside today's top story.
As I looked with wonder at the photograph, I remembered all kinds of things that I'd forgotten. I knew that Uncle Don's birthday was coming up, but forgot that his anniversary with Aunt LaRayne was just a few days before that on the calendar. At that moment knew that I had to move things around. It was not a milestone, and yet I felt compelled to celebrate 69 years, because you never know what will happen. And should they make it 70 years, I hope they feel like celebrating. I know the family will be.
Then I remembered what my mother had said about her plans with my dad. It was great that they were able to arrange that weekend, and fishing together is really the most proper way to spend an anniversary for them. I know they'll enjoy themselves. The fact that it gets me off the hook as far as open house parties and card showers go is a bonus too!
Sometimes I wonder If I chose lifelong bachelorhood, or if it chose me. I remember Uncle Don telling the story of the time that he started dancing with Aunt LaRayne just as the band played "It had to be you". He knew that she was it for him. As for me, I've never really had a moment like that. I once told my dad that any woman who wanted to land me would have to really work at it. The thing was, no woman wanted to do that much work. Perhaps I didn't either. My only regret is that it took me so long to realize that it was OK to embrace lifelong bachelorhood. It works for me, just like being married works for Uncle Don and my Dad. When it stops working, then we'll see! Until then, God be with you and do the best you can!
Monday, May 20, 2013 On the Edge of Wetness
Kornfield county is getting some much needed rain.Some places have had more than an inch of preciptation, and the ground was so dry that it all soaked in. The corn planting seems to be right on schedule in some areas, ahead of schedule in others. The rain is a bit of a bother in the big city however. Some of the city folks rush right out when it raining to roll up the windows on their cars and trucks while our Publisher looks on, shakes his head and chuckles in haughty derision because he knew that the time to roll up windows was before the rain.
Today being May 20, all of us would be remiss not to tell all those who are so inclined to get your corn planted. E.E. Hinkle dad. Ed Hinkle always tried to get his planted corn on his birthday. One wonders if he would be up to it at age 144. Probably not! On the Edge of Darkness
The new Star Trek movie, "Into Darkness" opened to mild enthusiasm. This not withstanding, our Publisher is going to take some time away from the home office and give it the once over. Everyone he knows that has seen the movie has thus far had nothing but good things to say about it. To be sure, as with all things Trekian, this movie had had detractors as well. The only way to know if it's any good, he reckons, is to see it for himself.
Our Publisher considers himself a trekkie, but since he's never been to a convention, or dressed like a character of that franchise, we kinda doubt that he is. Still, he has quite a few toyv phasers and a communcator, so maybe a Trekker. He'll have more on this tomorow! Saturday, May 18, 2013 Rain Rain, Like a Hurricane
Around 11pm last night Mitchell had a brief, but productive thunderstorm. Lightning shut the electricity down at the Ramada while our Publisher was there after a hard night's work. The back-up generators kicked in almost instantly, while a total of a half inch of rain fell, most of it came down in the space of 5 minutes. Strong winds came with the storm as well. Thankfully there was no hail.
Publisher Goes Flat
Sometimes Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle has to seek out adventure in order to have something to write about on the Front Page. When he seeks adventure, sometimes he finds it. Other times it finds him. That's what happened this morning.
Jerry was on his way to the home office when he heard an unmistakable sound of a tire blowout. Jerry very carefully sought out a parking lot that was level to inspect the damage. Jerry suspects that the seal was blown on the left drivers side tire. After standing there in disbelief for a spell, Since there was nobody else around to so so, Jerry went right to work changing the tire. It was the first time that Jerry did so by himself. The jack that came with the car works rather nicely. The whole operation took a while but Jerry got the job done, as hard as it was. Good thing he was in the big city travelling at 25 mph rather than the middle of nowhere going 60 mph and that level ground was easily accessible. That could have been a mess! As it is, the only damage done was to the tire, and his shoulders.
Friday, May 17, 2013 Getting Real by Jerry Hinkle
Last night I auditioned for "Grease" at the Pepsi Cola Theatre. I learned quite a bit about theatre, and about myself as it turns out. For sure I'm not as young as I used to be. It's very difficult to sing, dance, and look happy. It's impossible to "fake it" as well. I keep coming back to that Alexander Pope quote. You know the one, "Gracefully leave the stage before the sprightlier age comes on and throws you off. It's very nice to see so many young people wanting to be part of this wonderful show. The director of the show sure has her work cut out for her casting this show with so much talent to choose from. As for me, whether or not I get the part I read for, it will be a great show. I accidentally met someone who goes to Fusion, who does not share my assertion that Mitchell is "the big city". That by itself was worth going to the audition. Now I can concentrate on the new Star Trek movie! God be with you and do the best you can!
Thursday, May 16, 2013 Hunter Bork Dies at 23
It was reported and confirmed yesterday that Hunter Bork lost his second battle with cancer. He was 23. His brave fight won him the admiration of all who knew him, and several more that didn't. Even though he attended DWU at roughly the same time as our Publisher, none of us here at the Holabird Advocate knew that much about him. Losing one leg to cancer did not prevent him from becoming a successful part of the DWU track and field team. All of us here at the Holabird Advocate send our best thoughts wishes and prayers to his family at this difficult time.
Publisher to Audition for Musical
As if life wasn't hard enought for the good people of the Mitchell Area Community Theatre, Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle is going to be auditioning for "Grease" the ACT summer musical tonight. Hopefully everyone who couldn't make it, as was the case with Jerry, will make it to tonight's auditions.
As mentioned previously, ever since playing an audience member in Xanadu, Jerry's feet have been itching to get back on stage. Only about half of us here at the Holabird Advocate think auditioning for a musical is a good idea. After all, Jerry can't sing and doesn't dance. When the director finds that out, it'll be all over for him. Still, as one of the greatest actors of his generation, Jerry may be able to fake it!
Tuesday, May 14, 2013 Calming Down in Kornfield County
Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle, had a busy weekend with work, church, and relatives coming over on Sunday. Darrel, Kristi, and Brittany Hinkle stopped in on their way back from Avon where they were picking up supplies for the Greenhouse. Darrel invited his oldest brother to dine with them at the Ruby Tuesday in Mitchell. Jerry enjoyed getting the chance to catch up on all the family goings on. It was a quick visit, because Darrel wanted to get the cargo unloaded before dark.
Jerry went to work after they left for home, but there wasn't very many people going out for pizza on Mother's Day, so he was booted at 7:30 or so. Jerry then went to the hospital to check on his coffee buddy, Earl, only to find someone else in his room. It's good he was able to be discharged. Hopefully they will both be back to the old familiar routine before too awful long.
"Grease" Auditions Coming Soon
ACT has announced that auditions for the Summer Musical Production of "Grease" will be held on May 15-16 at the Pepsi Cola Theatre on the corner of 7th and Main at 7:30 PM. There are parts for ages 14 and up. Since Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle is in that age group, he thinks that applies to him as well. Since he has Thursday off, that might be his best bet. Ever since he played the part of an audience member in Xanadu earlier this year, his feet have been itching to be on stage. Whether the rest of his body will cooperate remains to be seen.
Senate Race Analysis by Jerry Hinkle
I listen to a lot of retired people as they drink their morning coffee, and this is what I've learned. Regardless of party, they can all agree on one thing. The Democrats need this seat in the Senate. Of that there can be no doubt. And for some time now there has been a certain amount of speculation among the electorate that either Senator Johnson's son, Brendan, or Stephanie Herseth Sandlin (SHS) will be the Democrat they need to keep that seat blue, or if former Governor Mike Rounds will paint it red. Thus far, as we all read on the Front Page of the Holabird Advocate yesterday (you did read it yesterday didn't you) we are looking at only Rick Weiland to challenge Rounds next year, unless someone else is brave enough to run between now and next June in the primary.
So the next question is, can Weiland beat Rounds. The only way to know is to turn on the TV on Election day in November and wait for the results. This fight if it happens, between Mike "Mr. Nice Guy" Rounds and Rick "Real Democrat" Weiland will be an interesting campaign to behold. Will it get nasty? It obviously will! If the candidates themselves won't sling mud, outside interests will get their hands dirty. Rounds smiled his way into the Governor's Residence, but he might be called upon to go negative. It will be interesting to see if he can resist that call. As for Weiland, this is his third attempt at office, yet precious little is known about him. I have a feeling before this election is out, we will know more than we want to about everyone in this race. The bottom line is that we'd better enjoy the lull in campaign 2014, because if history has taught me anything, I know it won't last long. God be with you and do the best you can!
Monday, May 13, 2013 Herseth Sandlin Chooses Not to Run
This morning Stephanie Herseth Sandlin posted on her Facebook page that although she was confident that she could win a statewide race next year, that she and her family decided not to run at this time. With her out and Brendan Johnson keeping his distance, the only Democrat running for Senate next year, a least so far, is Rick Weiland. We have a whole 13 months before the primary, so there is still time for anyone, regardless of party to throw their proverbial hat into the ring as it were. As it stands now it looks like a Rounds Vs. Weiland fight for the Senate in 2014.
A Day for Mother by Jerry Hinkle
One of the many great things about this country is our willingness to celebrate motherhood. We'll celebrate fatherhood later on, but it's not the same. Not every country does this either. A friend of mine that lives in Ghana never heard about Mother's Day. What a shame that is!
Methodists traditionally celebrate Mother's Day as the Festival of the Christian Home in their worship service. Sadly, as a lifelong Methodist, I never knew that until yesterday's worship service. Either that or I did and forgot all about it.I must admit, I'm not sure why, because a Christan family needs both parents. I guess we'll see what Methodists celebrate on Father's Day!
Will Rogers once said that "Mothers and dogs are the only 2 things that will love you no matter how badly you treat them". As it happens, I ran over my dog with the silage truck, fatally as it turned out. As far as my mother goes, I can't remember what the worst thing I did to her was, and I'm sure she doesn't remember either. I have made jokes at her expense like saying such things as that she never wanted me to be a comedian because she was afraid people would laugh at me. The truth is, she has always been supportive of all of my endeavors, even when she didn't approve of them. When I failed, she was always there to cheer me, and on the rare occasions that I succeeded, she could not have been prouder.That's the mark of a good mother right there! My brother's and I are very blessed. I didn't always know that, but i do now. I'm sure my brothers do as well. God be with you and do the best you can! Saturday, May 11, 2013 Rick Weiland for Senate?
A familiar name was dropped in the 2014 race for U.S. Senate from South Dakota. Rick Weiland ran unsuccessfully for the lone SD house seat twice. Once in 1996 and again in 2002. During his first race, he made the claim to be a REAL Democrat. Visitors to the office of EE Hinkle, our Publisher's grandfather could not help but notice the photo of Mr. Weiland and Tom Dashcle with that bold claim that was sent to EE from the Weiland campaign the first time around when Weiland was accusing his primary opponent of not being a genuine Democrat. He won that primary, but we can't say the same about his primary with Stephanie Herseth Sandlin in 2002.
Weiland is, thus far the only democrat to announce that he is in fact running for senate. SHS will give an answer later this month, but it appears that Brendan Johnson may not be interested in keeping his father's Senate seat in the family.
Friday, May 10, 2013 South Dakota Retirement Information Submitted by Joan and Ken Hansen
The third-best state for retirement is ... South Dakota? That's right. The Mount Rushmore State may not be on many retirement wish lists, but it should be. What it lacks in warmth, it makes up for in a variety of ways. South Dakota has the lowest crime rate in the nation. The Tax Foundation also says South Dakota
residents have an estimated state and local tax burden of 7.6 percent, which is lower than every other
state except Alaska. Its temperatures are on the chilly side, with a 30-year average of 46 degrees --about the same as New York and Colorado.
Publisher has Coffee in Hospital
Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle went to McDonalds yesterday morning and bought 2 small coffees because his coffee buddy Earl told him the hospital lets him have coffee. As they drank their respective cups they talked at length on all the issues of the day, mostly the rainy weather, which they are both glad of. The lady in charge of the hospital menu, brought it around to take Earl's order for tomorrow, and Jerry found out that even though they let Earl have coffee, it's decaf. He decided right then and there that he would not bring Earl any more coffee for a while.
Wednesday, May 08, 2013 Publisher's Drinking Buddy Hospitalized
Holabird Advocate Publisher, Jerry Hinkle usually has coffee after the early service at FUMC in the Johnson Lounge with Earl, a 97 year old man who joined him for coffee the first day that the people from Culver's donated their used tables and chairs. But for the last couple of Sundays, Earl has been missing from church. After some digging around, Jerry found out that sometime around April 26, Earl wasn't feeling well. He ended up at the Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls. Last Monday Earl was moved to the swing bed unit at the Mitchell hospital and Jerry has been over to see him at least once a day since then. In fact Jerry is thinking about brings over some coffee and cookies for him. He thinks Earl will like that!
Bella's Butterfly Garden Taking Shape
Last year in late March, a 9 year old girl named Bella was killed by a drunk driver. Since that tragic event the Mitchell area has been looking for a way to remember her. The idea of a butterfly garden was proposed and accepted by the City Council. Donations to the tune of $30,000 have come in so far. A fundraising even has been planned for July 1, which the Holabird Advocate will involve itself in.
Happiness, Success, and Perseverance by Jerry Hinkle
A few days ago, I was watching a YouTube video of Steve Jobs talking about what it takes to be successful. He claims that if people enjoy what they are doing, they are less likely to give up on it, even when the times are tough. People who keep trying even when it doesn't go their way, eventually become successful. It's just like the old saying goes, "If you enjoy your job, you'll never work a day in your life".
It is ironic that I've never found anything that I could make money at, which, according to the way the world thinks, makes me a failure. I believe that success should be measured in ways other than monetary gain. Does that mean I think that I am successful, good grief no! At least not yet. I have to keep at it. People don't succeed by thinking they can't do something.
I enjoy working at the Hut, and working on the Holabird Advocate. If I didn't, I wouldn't have lasted 5 years at either place. If anyone does something they don't enjoy, they'll never be successful even if they make $5 million a year at it! If you can't enjoy being alive, they you're not living! God be with you and do the best you can! Saturday, May 04, 2013 The Proposal by Sarah Kimberlyn
Whenever life seems to drift you away from me,
I can't help but cry
You've grown to be
such a part of me that without you life is no more than a
desperate sigh
They do say love comes and goes, and to that I disagree.
So, here's my hand, take it and don't let go of me
Hold my hand and I'll take you there,
Somehow, someday, somewhere
Thursday, May 02, 2013 Snow in May?
Some folks in South Dakota had one last taste of winter weather on May Day, at least they hoped it was their last taste. Some in Sioux Falls may have been shouting "Mayday" in response to the snow. That kind of weather was not exactly fitting for dancing around the May Pole. While we haven't heard the official total for anywhere in SD, we have heard that Omaha had 2 inches of snow. As for here in Kornfield county, no snow! It was cloudy and we had a few drops of rain but that was it. The trees are budding, spring is here! life is good-for now.
Remembering Grandma by Jerry Hinkle
Today is Grandma's birthday. Had she made it this far, she would have been 95. Ever since I got the call on the evening that she passed, I've been conflicted. Denial, anger, depression, bargaining, each of these stages came and went. Acceptance was the hardest. Part of me wanted to find out why someone could go to the nursing home with a broken leg and die of pneumonia a few short months later and make the responsible party pay and pay dearly.
I came to realize, in time, that finding out whoever or whatever caused Grandma's last illness wasn't going to bring her back. Then, and only then was I able to put things in place, and get used to the new normal. I remembered when Grandad was taken with the pneumonia. Nothing anyone did brought it on, it just happened. Several people, in preparing me for the end, told me that pneumonia was an old man's best friend, because it takes him to heaven. As it turns out, it did the same for Grandma.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the World Wide Web (we should send Al Gore a card). The www made it possible for Grandma's family to connect like it hadn't before. Until the Internet came alone, we saw the relatives on the usual holidays at Grandma's house, and maybe a card, letter or phone call in between. Primarily, it was Grandma that kept the family together. While a computer is a poor substitute, it's all we got. Until the day we are all called to the family reunion in the sky, my family and I will remember Grandma the way she was with a smile, a hug, and the wave that said, "Goodbye, I'll miss you, so come back when you can". God be with you and do the best you can!
Tuesday, April 30, 2013 New Record for Newsblog Circulation
It has been reported by the Holabird Advocate Circulation Department, that on Wednesday, April 24, our little Newsblog had 36 visitors, which is a post relaunch record! all of us here at the Holabird Advocate, while thrilled about the new record, have no idea why it happened. Sadly, it hasn't even approached the thirties since a week ago tomorrow. Just a hiccup. Oh well!
Freaky Weather in Kornfield County
All of us here at the Holabird Advocate never know what to expect from the outside weather. Winter was a little longer than usual, and there are reports that we may not have seen the last of the snow. Over the weekend we saw the Mercury rise to 86 degrees both Saturday and Sunday. It has cooled off somewhat, so maybe spring has arrived.
Let's all go to the Mattress by Jerry Hinkle
Friday night is the opening of the ACT production of "Once Upon a Mattress" at the Pepsi Cola Theatre. While I will miss opening night because of previous obligations, I do have a ticket for the May 5 matinee performance at 2 pm. I hope that all who can will pack the show. As a member of the ACT, I feel it's my duty to give the show a little plug here. I'll also buy a large popcorn and soda to everyone who tells me they read it here on the Front Page of the Holabird Advocate. Can't wait to see the show, but I kinda have to!
God be with you and do the best you can!
Thursday, April 25, 2013 Brittany Hinkle Honored Sometime yesterday our Publisher's niece, Brittany Hinkle became the first Hinkle to join the National Honors Society. While none of us here at the Holabird Advocate know the exact criteria for memberships in this Society, but we do know that she met or surpassed them, which really comes as no surprise to anyone who knows her. As you can see by the photos taken respectively by Kristi Hinkle and Mary Hinkle, she is both excited and proud to be a part of the group. All of us here at the Holabird Advocate are excited and proud as well! This is just the beginning! Ringing the Golden Bells by Jerry HinkleIn a little under 2 months time, my parents, Harold and Mary Hinkle will have been married for 50 years. Such an achievement is rare, and getting more rare with the passing of every day. My mother once said, " Having a long marriage is easy. All you have to do is get married young and never get divorced." I laughed when she said it, but she was being very serious. The kind of commitment to Christian marriage that not only she, but my father as well, have demonstrated should be celebrated. The question is: How do we celebrate this kind of achievement?
In a perfect world, My family and I would throw the biggest, fanciest party that Hyde County ever saw. We'd get together in whatever venue could hold all of my parents' family, friends and neighbors, we'd have all the cake ice cream and punch that one could drink, and the very best of it too. Maybe a program in the middle with singing, dancing, poetry, some long boring speeches from anyone willing to say a few words, and top it off singing "put on your old grey bonnet". We'd display 50 years worth of photos, the proclamation from the governor making June 23, 2013 Harold and Mary Hinkle Day, and maybe even a power point set to music from the 60's. Of course this would give us all a chance to keep up with people we haven't seen in years and tell the old stories, and hear some more old stories, and have a good old grand big time for everyone!
Yes, in a perfect world we could do that. But this is not a perfect world. June 23 is a Sunday, which would be almost nearly perfect for such an event, but weekends are my busy time at work. And such parties take planning preparation and work. Details like where to hold the event, who's gonna cook or cater, getting invitations ready and mailed, and figure out who to invite. I know, and you readers that know my mother know that if we did have a party the bulk of the work would be done by her, and that's not fair to her, because even though she wouldn't mind, and she would say so, I wouldn't feel right about it.
Besides that, parties are a hassle. I found that out when we threw my parents a silver anniversary open house back in 1988. I had my grandmothers to help out. my brothers were both out of town at the time, so it was up to me to organize it. If I left things up to my brothers for the golden anniversary, my sisters in law would be doing the bulk of the work, and that, to me, would be asking too much, even though I know they'd do it and willingly so.
The best solution I could come up with is a card shower. There is no fuss and bother, no party to show up for, no need to dress fine in summertime. But the best part is that my parents would be so happy to get cars and letters from the people they love marking this occasion. If we do end up doing that, we may even put out their e-mail address for those who don't want to slip a stamp to an envelop (It IS the 21st century after all). We gotta get with the times. Of course my brothers may have something to say about this, so we'll see what we can come up with. It's just a shame to see a wonderful occasion such as this slip by without some sort of observation. God be with you and do the best you can!
Tuesday, April 23, 2013 THE (SCIENTIFIC) DEATH OF JESUS Submitted by Connie HopkinsAt the age of 33, Jesus was condemned to the death penalty. At the time crucifixion was the "worst" death. Only the worst criminals condemned to be crucified. Yet it was Even more dreadful for Jesus, for unlike other criminals condemned to death by crucifixion, Jesus was nailed to the cross by His hands and feet, rather than tied... Each nail Was 6 to 8 inches long. The nails Were driven into His wrist. Not Into His palms as is commonly Portrayed. There's a tendon in the wrist that Extends to the shoulder. The Roman guards knew That when the nails were being hammered into the Wrist, that tendon would tear and Break, forcing Jesus to use His back Muscles to support himself, so that He could breathe. Both of His feet Were nailed together. Thus He was forced to Support Himself on the single nail that Impaled His feet to the cross. Jesus could Not support himself with His legs for long because of the pain, so He was forced to alternate between arching His Back and using his legs just to continue to Breath. Imagine the struggle, the pain, the Suffering, the courage. Jesus endured this Reality for over 3 hours. Yes, Over 3 hours! Can you imagine this kind of Suffering? A few minutes before He died, Jesus stopped bleeding. He was simply pouring water >From his wounds. From common images we see wounds to His hands and feet and even the spear wound to His side... But do we remember the many wounds Made to his body. A hammer Driving large nails through the wrists, the feet overlapped And a nail hammered through the arches, then a Roman guard piercing His side with a spear. And... Before the nails and the spear, Jesus was whipped and Beaten. The whipping was so severe that it tore the Flesh from His body. The beating so horrific that His Face was torn and his beard ripped from His face. The Crown of thorns (two to three inch thorns) cut deeply into His scalp. Most men Would not have survived this torture. He had no more blood To bleed out, only water poured from His Wounds.The Human adult body contains about 3.5 liters (just less than a gallon) of blood. Jesus poured all 3.5 liters of his blood; He had three nails hammered into His Members; a crown of thorns on His head and, beyond That, a Roman soldier who stabbed a spear into His Chest.. All these without Mentioning the humiliation He passed after carrying His own Cross for almost 2 kilometers, while the crowd spat in his Face and threw stones (the cross beam was almost 30 kg of weight, to which His hands were nailed). Jesus had to endure this experience, So that you may have free access to God. So that your sins can be "washed" away. All of them, with no exception! Don't ignore this. JESUS CHRIST DIED..FOR YOU! For you, who now read this e-mail. Do not believe that He only died for others (those who go to church or for pastors, bishops, etc). He died for you! It is easy to e-mail jokes or silly photos, But when it comes to God, Sometimes we feel ashamed to forward a message about Him on To others. We are worried of what they may think. Accept the reality, the truth, that JESUS IS THE ONLY SALVATION FOR THE WORLD. God has special plans for YOU! Share this with all your friends... About what He went through to save you. Really think about it! May God bless you! Friday, April 19, 2013 Too Much Information?Valuable Info Submitted by Ken and Joan HansenIf you yelled for 8 years, 7 months and 6 days you would have produced enough sound energy to heat one cup of coffee.(Hardly seems worth it.) If you farted consistently for 6 years and 9 months, enough gas is produced to create the energy of an atomic bomb. (Now that's more like it!) The human heart creates enough pressure when it pumps out of the body to squirt blood 30 feet. (O.M.G.!) A pig's orgasm lasts 30 minutes. (O.M.G.!!!) A cockroach will live nine days without its head before it starves to death. (Creepy.) (I'm still not over the pig.) Banging your head against a wall uses 150 calories an hour. (Don't try this at home;maybe at work.) The male praying mantis cannot copulate while its head is attached to its body. The female initiates sex by ripping the male's head off. (Honey, I'm home . What the...?) The flea can jump 350 times its body length. It's like a human jumping the length of a football field. (30 minutes. Lucky pig! Can you imagine?) The catfish has over 27,000 taste buds. (What could be so tasty on the bottom of a pond?) Some lions mate over 50 times a day. (I still can't believe that pig ..quality over quantity.) Butterflies taste with their feet. (Something I always wanted to know.) The strongest muscle in the body is the tongue. (Hmmmmmm.......) Right-handed people live, an average, nine years longer than left-handed people. (If you're ambidextrous, do you split the difference?) Elephants are the only animals that cannot jump. (Okay, so that would be a good thing.) A cat's urine glows under a black light. (I wonder how much the government paid to figure that out.) An ostrich's eye is bigger than its brain. (I know some people like that.) Starfish have no brains. (I know some people like that, too.) Polar bears are left-handed. (If they switch, they'll live a lot longer) Humans and dolphins are the only species that have sex for pleasure. (What about that pig? Do the dolphins know about the pig) "The only problem with 'common sense' is that it is not all that common."-Charles Osgood Thursday, April 18, 2013 Winter Makes Comeback
It's snowing and blowing in Kornfield County, as Winter Storm Mordecai continues to make his way through the countryside. The weather man says we could be in for as much as 3 inches today and tonight up until 1 am tomorrow morning. The Sioux Falls area is actually getting the brunt of the storm. Meanwhile back at the Ponderosa, Mary Hinkle is looking for airplane tickets to Honolulu. All of us here at the Holabird Advocate have one question. Where is Spring?
DWU Names New President
It was just announced that Amy Novak, DWU’s current provost and executive vice president, was named the new president of Dakota Wesleyan University. Brad Pratt, chairman of the Board of Trustees, came to campus today and made the announcement following chapel services. Amy is the university’s 20th president, and first female president. Novak replaces Dr. Robert "Bob" Duffet who has held the job for about 13 years, which must be a record! Dr. Duffet has taken another position at a university out east in the Philadelphia neighborhood . All of us here at the Holabird Advocate wish everyone well in their new positions! Both Universities will well served!
The Answer My Friend is 42 by Jerry Hinkle
I go to movies about as often as grandma burnt her cookies, but I'd heard so many good things about it, that I walked on down to the Luxury Cinema to check it out. Right away, I caught that the movie was "Based on a true story" so I knew they'd get some facts wrong. Armed with that knowledge, I had so much more fun.
For me, Harrison Ford stole the show. I hope the members of the Academy were paying attention, but we won't know that until Oscar time! Ford deserves at least to be nominated for his role as Branch Rickey. It was also quite a change for me to root for the hero of a movie by not wanting him to fight. The film really does show, a somewhat, if you'll pardon the expression, white-washed version of Robinson's first year in MLB. One imagines that his experience was much worse in real life.
As previously mentioned, the film is based on real life events. I only caught 2 mistakes: a road-sign declaring "Interstate 44" despite the fact that the road system was not created until much later. Also, they had a Hank Williams song playing in the shower a full year before it was recorded! Bottom line, the movie was well worth the $8 admission! Any fan of Baseball, Harrison Ford, or both need to see it. I'm glad I did!
God be with you and do the best you can!
Wednesday, April 17, 2013 Winter Storm Mordecai Moves East
Kornfield County is in a Winter Storm advisory until Noon on Friday. At press time, it's cloudy and 35 degrees. Be that as it may, the weatherman tells us we could get an inch of snow today, and as much as two inches tonight. Snow is being reported in Hyde County at press time, and those who are driving are doing so very slowly. All of us here at the Holabird Advocate will be saying a prayer for all of those baby calves on the ground.
SS Finds "suspicious substance" in Obama Letter
It's been reported that the Secret Service found a suspicious substance that was found to be a toxin known as ricin in a letter to the President. Another such letter was found that was addressed to a Mississippi Senator that none of us here at the Holabird Advocate have ever heard of before. Hopefully whoever is doing this isn't going to make a habit out of it!
Putting the MAN in Manwich part 2 by Jerry Hinkle
Things have been slowing down at the Hut, which is bad for my bank account, but has given me a little more time to experiment in the kitchen. I picked up another can of Manwich sauce and a pound of ground beef at the County Fair Food Store to see how other people make Manwiches. As I suspected, the Ponderosa beef was leaner, but only slightly so. There was no difference in the taste however. I doubt that I will prepare Manwiches very much, because it's easier to just plop a burger on the George Foreman grill watch the magic happen. It might not be smart, or correct, but that's the way I see it!
God Be with you and do the best you can!
Monday, April 15, 2013 Explosions Interrupt Boston Marathon
A series of at least two explosions at the finish line of the Boston marathon. As it happens a few of our Publisher's friends are on the ground in Boston because they were watching DWU's own Thomas Madut run in that race. And it's been reported that Thomas was done running 2 hours before the blasts hit Beantown, finishing in 73rd place. All of us here at the Holabird Advocate are sure glad to hear that, because not everyone was so lucky, as the rapidly changing death toll reminds us.
Stace Nelson Running?
The ears of all of us here at the Holabird Advocate are burning, not because people are talking about us, but because they are talking about State Representative Stace Nelson. People to the left and right of Rep. Nelson keep speculating if he is going to run for US Senator as a spoiler for Mike Rounds, or for Governor as a spoiler for Dennis Daugaard, or will he be content with running for re-election as South Dakota's District 19 Representative.We must admit that we are curious as well. We have no doubt that, if elected, he would serve South Dakota, and it's voters very well in any elected position. As to whether or not he can be elected, that remains to be seen. The thing is, he's gotta run in order to get elected. For now, time is on his side, as he's got a whole year before he has to put the rubber to the road. One thing we do know for sure is that any race, primary or otherwise, with Rep. Nelson in it will be exciting to watch, and to vote in!
Mr. Rogers: Still TV's Best Babysitter by Jerry Hinkle
This morning, I heard a most interesting statistic on the radio. Something like 12.7 million people on the average watch "Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood" every day. That floored me! That show has been in reruns ever since he retired 12 years ago. Some of the first run shows out there would love to pull down those kind of ratings!
It just goes to show the quality that went into every episode. Mr. Rogers had the ability to convince 12.7 million children that they were an important part of his life, on child at a time, and even though he's dead now, his television neighborhood still thrives. The secret to this success is simple. His TV neighbors, all 12.7 million of them loved him, because he loved them. He told everyone of them that they made every day special just by being themselves. Nobody ever did that before, and sadly nobody else has done it since. And Mr. Rogers was real. He wasn't acting when he told his TV neighbor that he cared about them. His scandal free life and career clearly show that!
I did some digging and found out that Mr. Rogers had a wife and 2 kids outside of his work. Something I'd have never known otherwise. I'm glad to see that he did have a life outside of his work. Not everyone can do that, but then why should we! God be with you and do the best you can!
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