Every year various citizens in the area are thankful to see the Danbury Fire Department roll up in their fire trucks to help turn unwanted fiery flames into embers and remnants of an out-of-control fire.
    Earlier this Fall, the Danbury Fire Department was thankful for the ability to help purchase some much needed turnout gear for these firefighters.
    The department received a grant totalling $1,500 from Farmers Mutual Insurance of Hull. They applied for the grant through their insurance agent, Mark Boehm of McClintock-Boehm Insurance in Mapleton.
    Turnout gear is a very essential need for firefighters. The gear which includes the pants and coats protect the firefighter from harm during fires. Because of its fire and heat resistance, this gear includes a hefty price tag. Just the coat and pants retail for over $2,600. They are not immune to damage, thus needing replacement at times. The grant along with donations will help the department with their clothing replacement needs.
    Above, Mark Boehm of McClintock-Boehm Insurance hands a grant check to Danbury Fire's Chief, Bob Welte.
    Photo by Sherry Welte. Thanks, Sherry!

    Harry E. Otto was drafted to fight in the war on July 25th in 1918. He arrived at Camp Gordon, GA, the 17th and left there August 25, 1918, to transfer to Camp Merritt, NJ, on August 27, 1918. On August 29th, Harry left to serve overseas in the Auto 26th Repl. Co. His last address was Co. C. 316 Infantry 79 Division, and the fatal battle in which he lost his life took place on November 7, 1918, at Hill No. 378 in France. Harry was the only soldier from this locality killed in action in France.
    Harry E. Otto's body was returned to the depot in Danbury on Friday evening, October 21, 1921, on the Flyer and was taken to the M.E. church were it was guarded by comrades until Saturday, October 22, 1921, when it was taken to the family home southeast of Danbury for the services on Sunday, October 23, 1921. Comrades continued to guard the casket throughout this time. The casket rested on the front porch of the residence for the services. Following these services at the house, the large funeral cortege found its way to the Hartleben Cemetery one mile east where a large number had already gathered, not able to find standing room at the home services. In excess of 1,500 people were in attendance for some or all the services to recognize Harry E. Otto's service and sacrifice for his country and democracy.
    The Hartleben Cemetery is now known as the Otto Cemetery in memory of Harry Earl Ralph Otto.
    A tribute to Harry E. Otto will be held at the Hartleben/Otto Cemetery (corner of 110th Street and Willow Ave - 6 miles east on E16 and 2 miles north on Willow from Mapleton or 2 1/2 miles south on L37 and 2 iles east on 11th St. from Danbury) on Saturday, November 27, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. The Carlson-Frum Legion of Danbury and the Loren Hollister Legion of Mapleton will conduct military rites. All are welcome to attend this ceremony to honor Harry and his sacrifice to ensure democracy and our country's freedoms. The attendance in 1921 was over 1,500 people. What will 2021 be?

    The Maple Huskies 4-H club will be serving their soup luncheon on Sunday from 10:30 until 1:00 at the Battle Creek Fire Station. Potato soup and chili will be served along with cinnamon rolls all for a free will donation. Carry outs will also be available. The club will also be selling their Christmas goodie trays.

    Cord Memorial Library is full of books for their patrons to check out and enjoy. Last week the building was also full of crock pots full of soup for the public to enjoy at no cost.
    Librarians Anna Grell and Melissa Steben and the Friends of the Library provided chili, squash, and potato soup along with cheese and crackers. The tables filled with patrons who enjoyed the meal and socializing with fellow visitors, and many more didn't mind walking and talking while enjoying lunch. The hostesses stayed busy serving over the lunch hour.
    While they don't have soup to offer every day, all are invited to check out Cord Memorial Library to see what there is to offer. Currently, the Friends of the Library is holding a raffle with a growing number of items to attempt to win. Go in and check it out! Hours are inside this Review.
    To the left, Anna Grell serves up a cup of squash soup to Jane Schrunk.