Lindsey Jean Mackin to Wed R. J. Gruwell

Paula Chandler-Morris, of Chariton, announced the engagement of her daughter, Lindsey Mackin to R. J. Gruwell, of Ottumwa, now residing in Russell.  

Miss Mackin graduated from Chariton High School in 2004 and is currently pursuing her associates degree as a paralegal through Everest University.  Mr. Gruwell, son of Tootie Clark-Shafer and Raymond Gruwell, of Ottumwa, graduated from Chariton High School in 2005 and has been employed by Lakeview Golf and Country Club for the past five years.  The couple will be married on July 1, 2012.

Small Engine Tractor Pull

Randy Braaksma of Russell performs a full pull during the small engine tractor pull.

Young Men's Basic Training Graduation

The Young Men's Basic Training Graduation was held on the Memorial Stage Saturday afternoon.  The graduates are pictured at the left.  Speaking at the podium is State Senator Paul McKinley and to the right of him are Pastor Dennis St. Lawrence and SFC Shawn Stone.

Years Ago

July 7, 2011

20 Years Ago ------------

The Women's water fight championship went to the team from Russell during the July 4th Celebration.  The team consisted of Robin Thompson, Judy Dorsey and Sandy Swartz.

40 Years Ago -----------

Bob Cain was named head basketball coach for the 1971-72 season by the Board of Education of the Chariton Community Schools.

60 Years Ago -----------

Miss Susie Relph left for San Francisco, Calif., where she attended the National Education Association convention.  Miss Relph, a teacher of rural school, Benton No. 1, was acting as a delegate for the Lucas County Rural Teachers.
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July 14, 2011

30 years ago -----------

After an auction and ice cream social, Russell netted over $1,100 towards their new community building.  The drive reached $18,000 and their goal was $35,000.

July 28, 2011

10 years ago------------

Summer Mumford was crowned Lucas County Fair queen.

The Russell Lady Trojan softball team members Jennifer DeHoedt and Haylee Orman were named second team all-conference players in the Bluegrass conference.  Casandra DeHoedt and Piper Orman were selected all-conference honorable mention.

50 years ago-----------

Work started on the new classroom and gymnasium addition to Russell High School.  The $163,000 structure, built by the Abild Company of Des Moines, would house six classrooms and the gym.

70 years ago-----------

Harry L. Latham and Emma Everett were working hard in six gardens in Russell where food for the school lunches were being grown for the next winter.