July 2022

Madelia grower-leader Harold Wolle elected to National Corn Growers Association leadership
The Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA) is thrilled with the recent news that Harold Wolle has been elected first vice president of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) for 2022- 23. His term will begin Oct. 1.

St. James Blood Drive July 21 and 22
Many people want to give back to the community but may not have a lot of time to volunteer. In only an hour, volunteer blood donors can help save lives and feel instant gratification.
Featured business of the month – Olsen Truck Service Center
My interview this month is with Rich Olsen, Owner of Olsen Truck Service Center. Rich is a very motivated person who has worked very hard in building his company of 41 years.

New pastor installed at St. Paul’s
Sunday afternoon was a festive day at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School. The members welcomed a recent graduate of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, Jacob Schlomer, as their new minister. He was ordained and installed at a festive service held on July 10. Members welcomed him at a dinner that was held following the service. Pastor Schlomer is excited to begin his work as a parish pastor at St. Paul’s.

Vikings legend remains active with fans and life in general
With Minnesota Vikings training camp only weeks away, talk about glory days heats up and often includes mention of former stars like Chuck Foreman. A gracious Foreman shared time recently for an interview with the St. James Plaindealer and covered a series of topics, both new and old.

Post #33 blasts through District foes on way to Championship
Big innings led to big wins for the hometown Legion squad as they disposed of Welcome/Sherburn 15-0 and USC/Wells 11-1. In each game Hunter Stevens clobbered a home run and Tanner Olson hit a double with bases loaded for three runs batted in both games.
Junior Legion wraps up season with tournament
Before a final 9-0 setback to Redwood Falls the St. James Junior Legion posted an 11-0 win over Madelia on July 10th, the middle game between an 11-3 setback to Springfield later that day and an 11-7 loss to New Ulm on July 6th. Runs came late in the Madelia game as the score sat at 1-0 after four complete innings, Talyn Tande supplying the main power with two hits for four runs batted in during the game.
School Board meeting is a mix of long and short-term decisions
The July 11 meeting of the St. James Public Schools Board of Directors focused on an agenda that included both precise details and big ideas. Superintendent Steve Heil presented on the work of the Strategic Work Force and Principals Mike Fugazzi and Liam Dawson also provided reports on the work in their respective buildings.

Committee works on school district strategic plan
On Wednesday morning, June 29, several individuals from the St. James Public Schools and St. James community sat down to review the stakeholder input, received from community outreach, to guide the school district in the renewal of its strategic plan. The planning group consisted of parents, community members, business leaders, and school district personnel.
Next Level STJ paves way for new uses in old building
A group of young families banded together to create Next Level STJ, designed to serve several purposes. The former Nelson Furniture building is being transformed with plans to fully open in September.