Welcome to the Friday mailbag where you will find some of the comments, questions and ideas sent recently by readers of this newsletter or our publications. They are edited for space and clarity.
“At least MISS-ISS-IPPI has a jingle (The spelling contest, May 12, 2026).” - John
And, as a result, I have never spelled that state incorrectly. I wish I could say the same about Connecticut. - Shane
“Oh, gym class (Physical education, May 19, 2026)! Whenever classmates get together, someone will get around to the required gym suit. To be purchased only at the local JC Penney store. You knew school was right around the corner when JC had stacks of them on the table. There was no need to formally display them. They were a need, not a want. And good old JC had a suit for every size and shape. Never was fair, in my opinion, that the boys had regular shorts and T-shirts. Thank you, Shane, so much for the daily walks down memory lane. Some memories are just better than others, but all (most anyway) bring a smile.” - Diane
The question is, do you still have that gym suit? That would make a great class reunion photo. - Shane
“If you wear one glove while handling fish, you will need to be able to moonwalk properly (Bullheads and bruised egos, Guthrie Center Times, May 2026). Any sequins on that glove? Good story.” - Christopher
I just so happen to have one sequined glove from one of my better Halloween costumes, and now I know exactly how to put it to good use. And, yes, I can do the moonwalk. Kind of. - Shane
“Good morning, Shane. To a certain extent, I'm like you. I love being outside (Springtime allergies in Iowa, May 20, 2026). I especially enjoy a sunny day. I used to cut my lawn (we're in an HOA now). In the spring until about July, it was a pleasure. Likewise, when the first snow fell, the thrill of blowing snow was ecstasy. Then came January. Our attitudes diverge when it comes to rain on the face. When I began delivering newspapers, rain sucked. A bicycle, a poncho and a downpour cured me of liking rain. Then I grew into motorcycles. I left work one night hoping to get home before an approaching storm. The next day, a colleague asked me, ‘Did you get your rear end wet last night?’ I told him, ‘No. Sitting on it kept it the only part of me that was dry.’ " - John
Good point. Nobody seems to like a wet newspaper. Regarding the motorcycle, I keep a rainsuit in my saddle bags. Seems like a good idea, but I have never gotten it out of the package. - Shane
"Ahh, the joy or lack thereof of the athletic supporter (Gym class and Mrs. Claude, May 19, 2026). I recall lads were checked to see if they were wearing one or not. And unless your folks took you out of town, Hutzell's was the rite of passage for said purchase, as well as the only place to get your Converse High Tops for basketball or Riddells for football. Speaking of Algona High, could I ask a small favor for a mention of the second annual AHS/BGHS all class reunion this weekend in Algona? All AHS and BGHS classmates and spouses are invited to the Columbia Events Center, 1501 E. Walnut St., Algona, on Friday, May 22 from 6-10 p.m. Entertainment by the Ned Freeley Funn Band. The KC Hall has a full-service bar, lots of parking, and is handicap accessible. Contact Joyce Kunkel Frideres at 515-341-3974 or Brenda Sjogren Suneson at 707-391-0937." - Rex
Done! - Shane
Have a fantastic Friday, and thanks for reading. |
