Tom Kuehne: The Good Old Days
3
Obituaries: Voss, Miller, Lentz, Kremers, Strandberg, Pages 4-5 Ahrendt, Breth
Dave Ramsey: Dave Says Page 6 Ask the Motor Medics® Page 6 Local Municipality Minutes: Grey Eagle City Page 7
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Once there was a king who kept 10 wild dogs locked away in a dungeon under his castle to torture his enemies or his ministers who made the slightest mistake. Over the years many of his ministers had been maimed or killed because of the king’s savage treatment.
One day the king discovered a mistake in a document he was about to sign, and he grew very angry. He ordered his guards to hurl the minister in with the dogs, but the minister pleaded, “I have served you loyally for more than 10 years!”
The king said, “No matter. In with the dogs you go.”
The minister quickly said, “Please grant me one favor. Give me 10 days to arrange my affairs before carrying out your sentence.”
The king agreed.
Then the minister immediately went down to the dungeon to ask the guard if he could feed the dogs himself. “I want to look in their eyes before they devour me,” he said. For the next 10 days he fed the dogs, cleaned them and took the best care of them.
When the 10 days were up, the minister was thrown in the pit, but the dogs licked and nuzzled him as a friend.
The king was enraged and demanded, “What have you done to my savage dogs?”
The minister said, “I served them for 10 days, and they did not forget my service. Yet I served you for 10 years, and you forgot my
FRI.-SUN., APRIL 11-13
loyalty at the first mistake. What does that tell you?”
The king finally realized his mistake and immediately ordered both the minister and dogs to be freed.
One of the first qualities that I look for in both employees and friends is loyalty. Someone can be a great worker, but if he or she isn’t loyal, their employment puts the company in jeopardy.
My philosophy is this: employee loyalty begins with employer loyalty. Your employees should know that if they do the job they were hired to do with a reasonable amount of competence and efficiency, you will support them. You will take an interest in their career advancement and give them the tools they need to perform effectively.
In return, you as the employer can expect that your workforce is prepared to give their best effort every day.
It goes beyond the “I’ll scratch your back and you scratch mine” notion. There is
a common goal that can only be reached if everyone pulls together for the good of all.
Fostering employee loyalty is the first step to creating customer loyalty. Most businesses depend on loyal customers for their bread and butter, and occasionally for their gravy as well. That’s why April is customer loyalty month. We all have customers who will buy from us even when they can get a lower price somewhere else, or quicker turnaround or better service.
But change all those “ors” into “ands” and your customers will start to question your loyalty to them. The same holds true for employees. You can’t keep them guessing how they will be treated and expect them to give their best to you.
Frederick Reichheld, author of “Loyalty Rules,” believes that loyalty is the fuel that drives financial success. Based on extensive research into companies from online startups to established institutions, such as Harley Davidson, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Cisco Systems, Dell Computer, Intuit and others,
Harvey Mackay continued to pg 3
The 45th Annual Meeting of the Grey Eagle Housing Association will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025, in the Menge Community Room at Village View Apartments in Grey Eagle. (Our Monthly Meeting will be held at 3:45 p.m.)
Nomination & Elections of 3 Directors: If you qualify as a member of Grey Eagle Housing Association and live in the area, you may nominate yourself, or another member of the association, to the Board of Directors either at the meeting or in writing before the meeting. This year we will elect 3 people to three-year terms. Please submit the names you wish to nominate to Margaret Newberg, 303 Cedar Street North, #25, Grey Eagle, MN 56336. For more information, please call 320-285-3973.
• 15th Annual “Journey With Jesus to Calvary” Play at St. Francis of Assisi Church, St. Francis. Fri.-Sat. at 7:30 p.m. Sun. at 1 p.m. See ad on page 4.
APRIL 10-11, 13
• Melrose Stages Inc. presents “Theatre Highlights Old and New” at the Marit Elliott Performing Arts Center, Melrose. April 10-11 at 7:30 p.m. April 13 at 2 p.m.
FRIDAY, APRIL 11
• Smelt & Fish Fry, Cash Raffle from 4-8 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Upsala.
SUNDAY, APRIL 13
• Matching Grant Breakfast from 9 a.m.12:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church Hall, Holdingford. See ad on page 3.
MONDAY, APRIL 14
• 45th Annual Grey Eagle Housing Association Meeting at 4:30 p.m. at the Village View Apartments. See ad on page 2.
FRI., APRIL 18 & SUN., APRIL 20
• Holy Week & Easter Services at Grey Eagle United Methodist Church. April 18 at 7 p.m. April 20 at 9 a.m. See ad on page 5.
SATURDAY, APRIL 19
• Melrose VFW Auxiliary #7050 Annual Easter Egg & Bake Sale at 8:30 a.m.; Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at the American Legion, Melrose.
• Easter Egg Hunt at 12-Noon at the Burtrum City Lions Park. See ad on page 5.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23
• Grey Eagle Senior Citizens Meeting at 4:30 p.m. Potluck & Bingo to follow at the Grey Eagle Senior Center.
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
• Moses Dane Cemetery Association
Meeting at 9 a.m. at the Burtrum Community Center.
• Upsala Area Veterans Memorial Open House from 2-4 p.m. SUNDAY, APRIL 27
• 53rd Annual Swanycake & Sausage Supper from 3-5:30 p.m. at St. Anthony Parish, St. Anthony.
ALBANY SENIORS
• Meets 1st Tuesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at the Albany Community Center.
ALBANY TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 4th Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Albany City Hall.
• Planning Commission meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Albany City Hall.
BURNHAMVILLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Burtrum City Hall.
BURTRUM CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. FEET FIRST CLINIC
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Holdingford City Hall. FOOD DISTRIBUTION
• Ruby’s Pantry Food Distribution 1st Saturday of the Month from 10-11 a.m. at River of Live Church, Sauk Centre.
FREEPORT CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
FREEPORT SENIOR MEETING
• Meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m. with cards/Bingo/coffee/dessert.
GREY EAGLE CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 1st Monday of the month at 8 p.m. LINE DANCING
• Meets Mondays at 4 p.m. & 5 p.m. alternating Mondays at the Melrose American Legion.
MELROSE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 1st Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the town hall.
MELROSE VFW #7050 POST/AUX.
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion Clubrooms.
MELROSE LEGION #101 POST/AUX.
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion. (Aux. Sept.-May.)
STEARNS CO. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
• Meets the 2nd Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Albany SUNSHINE CLUB
• Meets every Monday, weigh in starts at 8; meeting at 8:30 a.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle.
ST. ROSA CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 3rd Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Community Park building.
SWANVILLE CITY COUNCIL
• 1st Tuesday after the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
SWANVILLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 8:30 p.m. at the Swanville Fire Hall.
UPSALA CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
Some of us remember and some of us can’t imagine a time before electricity. To follow a morning ritual, one hears the ticking of the alarm clock in the bedroom. It rings, gets you up and you get dressed in the dark, which is OK, since you needed to remember where you placed your clothes last night. It’s also time to add wood to the cook stove.
There is no frig, so a drink from the dipper in the water bucket starts your day. There is no bathroom, so you have 3 choices. The choices are the outhouse, the in-house slop bucket or the barn. Depending on the weather, all have been the desired choice, depending on the weather.
Now mother gets up, gets dressed and takes care of her personal needs. She lights a kerosene light and starts breakfast. Water is dipped from the water pail and put on the stove to heat for oatmeal. A black frying pan is also placed on the stove for bacon and eggs preparation. The eating utensils are set on the table along with the quick look to see how the bowl of cottage cheese is doing.
Those planning to have breakfast need to go over to the wash basin, pump some water from the cistern and wash hands and face. Yes, it’s cold, but it is wet enough to clean the required areas.
It’s time to start breakfast, so oatmeal is scooped into the boiling water and the bacon is put into the frying pan. Some slices are removed from a homemade bread loaf and placed on the hot stove surface to make toast. The bacon is done and it’s time to drop in the eggs. Butter or bacon grease are smeared on the hot toast. A jar of tomato juice is opened, giving a little kick to the menu. It’s ready.
Now it’s time to turn on the battery powered radio to get the news. The World News Roundup is scratchy, screechy and subject to fading, but it gives the listener a fair idea about what’s happening in Europe and the Far East. The local news is much more clear and lets you know who was born and who died, along with a sketchy weather report.
A kettle of water is put on the stove so
that the breakfast dishes can be washed in warm water. It’s time to put more wood in the stove, because a copper boiler with water will need to be heated to wash clothes. The water to wash clothes is pumped from the cistern. The water pail is empty and needs to be refilled at the well house and carried back to the house. Will continue the story next week. For feedback or story ideas, email Tom at kuehneins@gmail.com.
If you need help with Health or Life Insurance or for Senior Health Solutions Contact: Tom Kuehne 320-360-0343
Harvey Mackay continued from pg 2 Reichheld reveals six bedrock principles of loyalty upon which true leaders build enduring enterprises.
1. Play to win/win. Never profit at the expense of partners.
2. Be picky: Membership must be a privilege.
3. Keep it simple: Reduce complexity for speed and flexibility.
4. Reward the right results: Worthy partners deserve worthy goals.
5. Listen hard and talk straight: Insist on honest, two-way communication and learning.
6. Preach what you practice: Explain your principles, then live by them.
Could it be simpler?
The people in your network should be able to depend on your loyalty as well.
John Akers, former chairman of IBM, puts loyalty in this context: “We’ve all heard short-sighted businessmen attribute a quote of Vince Lombardi: “Winning is not the most important thing; it’s the only thing.”
Well, that’s a good quote for firing up a team, I much prefer another Lombardi quote. He expected his players to have three kinds of loyalty: “to God, to their families and to the Green Bay Packers, in that order.”
Mackay’s Moral: Employees should be encouraged to ask questions, but they should never have to question your loyalty.
Reprinted with permission from nationally syndicated columnist Harvey Mackay, author of the New York Times #1 bestseller “Swim With The Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive,” “We Got Fired!...And It’s the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Us,” “The Mackay MBA of Selling in the Real World,” and “Use Your Head To Get Your Foot In The Door.”
Lori just had hip surgery done last week. After the surgery the doctor came and found me in the waiting room. He showed me the x-rays of what the hip looked like before and after. He pointed out (mainly because I was unsure of what to look for) that there was part of a bone missing and the joint was bone on bone. No wonder she was having difficulties! He then showed me the hip with the new hardware in, I was amazed! After any surgery there is a healing time that follows, you learn to adjust with whatever the surgeon has fixed. In order to get the problem fixed we need to go through the surgery, to cut out the bad and put in the new, and then there is the healing… more pain before it gets better.
Our faith walk is similar, we live a life of sin, and we are in darkness and corruption. Then God gets ahold of our life, and we become forgiven. Scripture refers to that as getting rid of your past way of doing things and
turning to righteousness.
Look at Ephesians 4:22-24 “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” We are all born with a heart condition! It’s called sin, but as soon as we meet Jesus and turn our life over to Him, we are given a heart transplant!
Ezekiel 36:26 “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.”
One thing to remember is that we all are sinners, and once we become forgiven, we are Sanctified, which means being set apart for a special purpose. 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Volunteers
Mon., April 14: Hot dog on bun, green beans, sweet potato.
Tues., April 15: Lasagna roll
w/ meat sauce, broccoli, peaches.
Wed., April 16: Sausage, egg & cheese burrito, hashbrowns, fruit cocktail.
Thurs., April 17: Beef tips w/gravy over noodles, green beans, bread.
Fri., April 18: Closed.
Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
The Mass of Christian Burial, celebrating the life of Bernadette Voss, age 90 of Albany, formerly of Hopkins, was held Monday, April 7, 2025, at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in St. Francis, rural Freeport which had been founded by her grandfathers. Burial was in the parish cemetery. Sadly, we announce the passing of our sister and beloved aunt, Bernie on April 1st, 2025, at the Mother of Mercy Senior Living in Albany. Arrangements were made by the Miller-Carlin Funeral Home.
Bernie was born to Clarence and Agnes (Lange) Voss, on December 29, 1934, in the midst of the great depression. Her heritage and her legacy were hard work. Bernie earned her living in the kitchens of hotels and country clubs. The work was hot and tedious, but Bernie worked willingly and with joy. And why wouldn’t she? She was a daughter of hard-working Stearns County farm folk. Bernie loved her large, extended family. She was a faithful member of St. Gabriel’s Archangel Catholic Church in Hopkins and the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in St. Francis, rural Freeport. She also enjoyed attending the weekly mass at Mother of Mercy Senior Living Chapel. Bernie’s loss will leave an empty spot in the hearts of many.
She is survived by her brother, Ronald (Shirley) Voss, Cold Spring, and her sister, Mary (Dave) Burke, Plymouth. Also surviving her are many loving nephews and nieces.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Agnes Voss; her brother, Arnold Voss; and her sisters, Glorine Rasinski, Delores Voss, Barbara Harren, and Judith Voss. She is also preceded by her sister-in-law, Florence Voss, and brother-in-law, Edward Rasinski; her nephew, David and niece Mary Lee.
A memorial service will be at 11:00 AM, Thursday, April 10th, 2025 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Long Prairie for Eric T. Miller, 47, of Long Prairie. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the services at the church. Burial will be at the Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Long Prairie.
Eric was born May 11th, 1977 to Loren and Helen Miller in Browerville. He graduated from Long Prairie/Grey Eagle High School where he was active in music, playing saxophone. He went on to complete his Bachelor’s Degree with a major in History and a minor in Music at Minnesota State University Moorhead. He also earned an Associates of Applied Science in Record Technology from Music Tech in Minneapolis. He later attended Alexandria Technical and Community College to complete a Medical Coding program and at another time, a truck driving school. For several years he worked from home doing medical coding on-line. He also drove semi-trucks. His last job was with Tire Lube Express in the Alexandria Walmart.
Eric married Stephanie Volker on October 8, 2005 at the Faith Lutheran Church in Morris. They made rural Long Prairie their home. He was a self-taught bass guitarist. He ran sound for Dixie North and many other bands. Third in Line was a band started by him, his brother and two others. He played bass guitar, ran sound and sang back-up. He enjoyed reading history books and he was especially fond of biographies of people like Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln. Favorite TV programs were the History Channel, True Crime and the Travel Channel. He would also catch up on the latest Ghost Stories. Eric was also somewhat of a gamer, occupying himself with PS5 or computer games. He enjoyed watching the fish in his huge fish tank. His loyal beagle named Jackson, poodle named Maddison and cat named, Ike were often at his side.
Eric is survived by his loving wife, Stephanie of Long Prairie; father Loren (Celeste) Miller of Long Prairie; mother Helen Miller of Alexandria; brother, Keith Miller of Edgerton; sister, Jill (Dennis) Tomford of Alexandria; stepsister, Ann Marie (Tim) Myre of Osakis; stepbrother, Paul (Bridget) Oldenburg of Houston, TX; mother-in-law Brenda Volker of Morris; sisters-in-law, Jennifer (Mark) Mellgren of Long Prairie and Stacey (Mike) Pederson of Glenwood; brother-in-law Doug (Tina) Blumer of Parkers Prairie and 17 nieces and nephews and one great-nephew.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Gladys and Melvin Miller and father-in-law Geoffrey Volker.
Julie K. Lentz, age 66 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at her daughter’s home.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 15 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre. Inurnment will be at the parish cemetery in Sauk Centre. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday at the church. A celebration of life will follow at the Next Door Bar following the burial.
Julie Katherine Lentz was born March 22, 1959 in Waconia, Minnesota to Jerome and Doreen (Olson) Lentz. She graduated from Sauk Centre High School in 1977. Most recently, she worked at Hardee’s in Sauk Centre.
Julie was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church. She enjoyed walking, growing flowers, spending time with family, bargain shopping, and shaking dice. She had the gift of gab whether in person or on the phone and would often end conversations with ‘Have a Good Day!’
Survivors include her daughters, LeeAnn (Jeremy) Sunderman of Sauk Centre and Kayla Lentz of Minneapolis; six grandchildren, Ryan (Breanna) Ritter, Reece Ritter, Alex Ritter, Brooke Sunderman, Jake Ilgen, and Trent Ilgen; two greatgrandchildren, Liam and Olivia Ritter; mother, Doreen Lentz of Sauk Centre; and brother, Brian Lentz of Sauk Centre.
Julie was preceded in death by her father, Jerome Lentz, and sister, Linda (Lentz) Blonigen.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
The Mass of Christian Burial, celebrating the life of Marvin Kremers, age 73, of Avon, will be at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church in St. Wendel, MN. Burial will be in the church’s parish cemetery following the service. There will be a visitation from 4:00 PM-8:00 PM on Monday, April 14, 2025, and again one hour before the service on Tuesday at the church. Parish prayers will be at 4:00 PM, on Monday at the church.
Marvin was born on February 11, 1952, in St. Cloud, to Arnold and Edna (Peopping) Kremers. He grew up in the Avon-Holdingford area and graduated from Holdingford High School in 1971. He married Elaine Hartung on May 19, 1973, in St. Joseph. He was a member of the St. Columbkille Catholic Church in St. Wendel.
Howard G. Strandberg, 92 year old resident of Swanville, MN, passed away Thursday, April 3, 2025, at St. Otto’s Care Center in Little Falls, MN. Funeral service was held Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Swanville with Pastor Tim Schmeisser officiating. Burial was in the parish cemetery. Caring for Howard and his family is the LeMieur Funeral Home in Little Falls, MN.
Howard Gordon Strandberg was born on June 24, 1932 in Swanville Township to the late Ernest Herbert and Minnie (Swanson) Strandberg. He was baptized on August 12, 1932. Howard attended country school through the 8th grade. On April 13, 1949, he was confirmed and became a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Swanville, MN. He was drafted and entered the United States Army on August 17, 1954 and was honorably discharged on August 14, 1956. City jobs and living were not to his liking so on December 24, 1957, he purchased a farm. He married Adeline Mueller on May 3, 1958 and together they enjoyed farming until their retirement. On February 1, 1984 they purchased acreage by Little Lake Hubert near Brainerd and built a modest house, where they enjoyed many hours working and spending time with family and friends. In his retirement years, Howard enjoyed helping on the farm, time at the lake fishing, jigsaw puzzles, especially John Deere, watching TV and computer games. Howard’s 5 favorites included faith, family, farming, fishing and Minnesota Viking football. Howard is survived by his wife of 66 years, Adeline Strandberg; sons, Ryan (Katie) Strandberg and Dale (Kathy) Strandberg; daughters, Jane and Joan Strandberg; grandchildren, Tom (Jenny) Strandberg, Jon (Kerrie) Strandberg, Nick (Lizz) Strandberg, Tim Strandberg, Stephanie (Alex) Kresha, Kyle Strandberg, Kara (Tom) Gerold and Bria (fiancé, Matt Drwall) Andersen; greatgrandchildren, Dylan and Taylor Strandberg, Caleb, Grant and Clara Strandberg, Mara, Jackson, Finley, Miles Strandberg, Isaac and Maya Gerold; godchildren, Jeff Mueller, Neil Strandberg, Chad Strandberg, Lori Sutton, Brenda Valentyn, and Adam Trampe; and brother, Dennis Strandberg. Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Minnie Strandberg.
He is survived by his wife, Elaine (Hartung) Kremers; their children, Paul (Jennifer) Kremers, Holdingford; Russell (Shannon) Kremers, Avon; and Adam (Lindsay) Kremers, St. Stephen. He is also survived by his siblings, Dale, St. Stephen; Renee, St. Cloud; Tom (Cathy), Avon; Kevin (Jodi), Avon; Duane (Jeanne), Holdingford; Cheryl (Paul) Raab, Avon; Joanie (Joe) Raab, Avon; Vickie (Donny) Mugg, Avon; Keith, St. Anna; and Lisa (Duane) Yurczyk.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Edna (Peopping) Kremers, and his infant daughter Rebecca. Brother-in-law, John Raab; mother and father-in-law; Ed and Adeline Hartung. He is also preceded by his nephew, Jason Hartung, and great-nephew, Eddie Michalek.
Eldon Ahrendt
Lawrence (Larry) Eldon Ahrendt was the first of 10 children born to Lyle and Vivian (Stoner) Ahrendt. He was born on October 16, 1947, in the Lutheran Hospital in Sioux City, Iowa. The family first resided in Sioux City but then moved to a farm north of Clarissa where Lawrence grew up. He attended country school and then Clarissa High School once he was in 7th grade. He participated in basketball, football, track and FFA. In August of 1965, he joined the Navy. After his discharge he was married and lived in the metro area where he was employed at the Packaging Corporation Of America. After several years of living in the cities, Lawrence decided to become a farmer. He first farmed in partnership with his father but then purchased his own dairy and crop farm. He was a member of the DHIA and won several awards for high quality milk production. A barn fire in the early 1980s ended the dairy operation. At this time, Lawrence joined the National Guard and became a cook. He retired from the Guards after 20+ years of service. Larry enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing cards. He also was an exceptional bowler.
Lawrence is survived by his three children Randy, Sheila, and Ryan (Darla); four grandchildren, Bryan, Ben, Sam and Kendal; four great-grandchildren, Aria Oryn, Jay and Harvey; his brothers, Stephan, Roland, Matthew and Tim; and his sisters Michelle, Becky, and their families.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Vivian Ahrendt; son-in-law Dan, and grandparents.
Lawrence (Larry) Ahrendt, 77 years of Grey Eagle, passed away on Monday, March 17, 2025 at the St. Cloud VA. A funeral service took place at Iten Funeral Home on Monday, March 24th, 2025. Burial followed at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery with Military honors. Arrangements are made with the Iten Funeral Home of Browerville.
By Steve Weihsmann
The Art of Conversation gallery is hosting a second soap making class on Friday April 11 from 5:30-7:30 pm. Melanie Fisher will teach the class, which is open to 10 people. Each participant will receive a recipe, tool list, video resource list, and a hot process bar of soap. You may register at fishersoaps@outlook.com. To find out more about the process, contact Melanie.
The gallery will be closed over Easter weekend. It will open again on Friday April 25. This month’s show is entitled “April showers.” This month’s People’s Pick winners: 1st place: ”April Swamp”—acrylic on canvas by Yvonne Forster
2nd place: ”Finding the Rainbow”— acrylic on canvas by Diane Jesh
3rd place: “Bring May Flowers”—photograph by Kailee Janssen
May will feature an all student show; June will be weaving and metal art/metal artifacts; July will be “collectibles” of all kinds; August has a historical theme to go with Upsala Heritage Day: “Relics of the Past” (both artwork and artifacts). Upcoming classes will include floral design, watercolor painting, and tie dyeing.
The gallery is located at 105 S. Main, Suite 2 in Upsala. Hours are Friday 2-6 pm; Saturday 10 am-2 pm; Sunday noon-2 pm. For more information, call Steve at (218) 428-8010.
Frances M. Breth
The Mass of Christian Burial, celebrating the life of Frances (Ebnet) Breth, age 102 of Holdingford, was at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Opole on Monday, April 7, 2025. Burial was in the Saint Mary Parish Cemetery. Frances was born March 30, 1923, to Margaret (Liebsch) and Simon Ebnet in Holdingford. She grew up in the area with her seven siblings and graduated from Holdingford High School. She married Michael Breth on May 4, 1943, in Church of All Saints-St. Mary in Holdingford. The couple lived in St. Francis, the Twin Cities, St. Cloud and Opole before moving to Holdingford. She was a member of Church of All Saints-St. Mary in Holdingford. A woman of unwavering faith, strength, and grace, she leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her Catholic Faith, notably, the Blessed Virgin.
She is survived by her children: Kathleen Harren, Rice; Daniel (Linda Theisen) Breth, St. Anna; James (Linda) Breth, Opole; Suzanne Achman, Pearl Lake; Marilyn (James) Schumer, St. Stephen; Mary Ann Justin, St. Cloud; Elaine (Randy) Klinger, Venice FL; 32 grandchildren, 73 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-greatgrandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents Margaret and Simon Ebnet, her husband Michael Breth, son David Breth, daughter Jean Bruns, grandson Timothy Harren, great-grandson Carter Klinger, sons-in-law Donald Harren and Richard Achman. She is also preceded in death by her siblings Victor Ebnet, Bernard Ebnet, Lawrence Ebnet, Bernadine Wensmann, Norbert Ebnet, Christine Mader, and Helen Root.
April 2, 2025: The Garbage Can There stood the gallant garbage can Resembling a forlorn, dejected pup Stuck in endless, heavy wet snow Waiting for ambitious soul To pull it out and up. -Jan Klug
Stearns Electric Association hosted its 88th Annual Meeting on April 3, 2025, where members gathered to participate in the democratic process of electing their Board of Directors. Held at the Melrose Area High School Auditorium, the meeting highlighted the cooperative’s commitment to its members and its future.
In the contested District 2 Board of Director election, Paul Tomasek of Avon (St. Wendel Township) was elected to the Cooperative’s Board of Directors to serve a three-year term.
Two incumbents, Michael Cramer of St. Augusta and Bob Niehaus of Melrose (Millwood Township,) were re-elected in districts 3 and 6 respectively, and will each serve one three-year term.
The results were as follows:
District 2 – Holding, Brockway, St. Wendel and LeSauk Townships
• Mark Berg-Arnold – 106
• Steve Johnson – 127
• Paul Tomasek – 202
• Steve Wruck – 102
• Write-In – 0
District 3 - Waite Park, St. Cloud, St. Augusta, Lynden and Fairhaven Townships
• Michael Cramer (incumbent) – 408
• Write-In – 9
District 6 - Millwood, Krain, Oak, Albany, Avon and Collegeville
• Bob Niehaus (incumbent) – 222
• Write-In – 2
Total voter turnout for this year’s election was 10.07%, with members casting their ballots online, by mail or in person at the meeting.
Following the Annual Meeting, the Stearns Electric Board of Directors held is organizational meeting where the following officers were re-elected:
• President – Eric Peterson, District 8
• Vice President –Randy Rothstein, District 4
• Secretary/Treasurer
– Michael Cramer, District 3
Over 240 members attended the 88th Annual Meeting of Stearns Electric Association. To show appreciation for being engaged with their local co-op, members who attended the meeting received a one-pound block of cheese and one pound of butter. Additionally, attendees were entered into a drawing to win one of 10 door prizes, each valued at $100.
Stearns Electric’s commitment to its members, providing an opportunity for members to actively participate in shaping the Cooperative’s future. Stearns Electric appreciates all members who participated and looks forward to another successful year ahead.
28916 County Rd. 17 - St. Rosa 320-836-2583
For those unable to attend in person, Stearns Electric live-streamed the meeting on its Facebook page, facebook.com/stearnselectric, where a recorded video is now available for viewing.
The Annual Meeting is a foundational part of
Sudoku is one of the most popular puzzle games of all time. The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9. As a logic puzzle, Sudoku is also an excellent brain game.
Dear Dave, How do you feel about the leasing programs automotive manufacturers offer their employees?
I’ve listened to your show enough to know you don’t recommend leasing the traditional way through a dealership.
-Baker
Dear Baker, I’d advise investigating the details of any deal like this very carefully. Some manufacturer offers, even ones to employees, are nothing more than another way for the company to fleece more drivers. But some manufacturers offer their employees decent programs that aren’t a traditional lease. I assume this is the kind of deal you’re talking about.
A few of them offer the use of a newer, high-quality car for very little money per month, with no hidden catches. In cases like these, things can work out pretty well for the employee and the company. I’ve even heard of a few companies offering gas and more in these employee deals.
Now, you’re right. I don’t recommend leasing in a normal scenario. For the average buyer walking onto a car lot, leasing is a complete rip-off. I tend to call it “fleecing” because getting “fleeced” means getting taken advantage of financially. And that’s exactly what happens with consumer auto leases. Basically, a car lease is a contract where, instead of buying a car, you pay in monthly installments to drive it for a set amount of time—usually two to three years. It’s basically a glorified rental car. But unlike a rental, leasing is a form of debt. And on top of all that, leasing is also the overall most expensive way to own a car.
Again, just make sure you check all the details very thoroughly, Baker. Use your head and a calculator, not your heart, when making a decision on something like this.
-Dave
* Leadership and small-business expert Dave Ramsey is the CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored eight national bestselling books, including “EntreLeadership,” and he’s a host of “The Ramsey Show” and “The EntreLeadership Podcast.”
From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Dear Motor Medics,
I want to know about 4-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. I am looking
at a 2021 Subaru with all wheel drive and a 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee with all wheel drive and full time 4-wheel drive. This is a lot to take in and the lots where I am looking to purchase one of these vehicles are not connecting with me on the explanation I am looking for. I want to know about the different systems, and which one is best. I would prefer one that has a 2-wheel drive position but none of these do. Will parts wear faster on these vehicles since they don’t?
-Jack in Toledo, Ohio
Dear Jack,
4-wheel drive has a switchable system with a 2-wheel drive position usually with a low and high range and sometimes even a full-time mode. An all-wheel drive may not be switchable at all by the driver and a full-time 4-wheel drive is also an all-wheel drive but may have a 2-speed transfer case giving you the option of both low and high range. Any system that you can put into 2-wheel drive mode will help with drivetrain wear, but an all-wheel drive system often puts itself into 2-wheel drive mode automatically by way of decoupling two of the drive wheels when not needed to save fuel and wear. It’s all consumer choice but a fully automatic system that puts itself into 2-wheel drive can save wear and give you added safety through increased traction.
-Take care, The Motor Medics
Dear Motor Medics,
I have a 2002 Ford F-150, and I am having problems with the trailer lights. Over
the years I have needed to have the wiring to the hitch area repaired several times when the trailer would no longer light up. Recently I was told that the wiring could no longer be repaired as it was too corroded and damaged. My shop tried to get a replacement harness to make the repair as it is only two feet long, but it is no longer sold by the dealer. I also need a door latch that the dealer does not have either and is not available at a parts store. What are my options for repairs?
-Robert in Jefferson, Texas Dear Robert,
We are familiar with the trailer light harness issue. The salt and water and even heavy mud on the roads can take their toll on these and as many as we see that have failed, we are a little surprised that we have not seen a source for a replacement part out there yet. Many parts that often fail like these just don’t have enough demand that a manufacturer would be willing to build one. You can have your shop or a shop that is willing to do it build you one. We have done it before, and it is not super difficult. The door latch may need to be sourced from an auto recycler.
-Take care, The Motor Medics For entertainment only. Always consult your local shop and follow all safety procedures before repairs. Come visit the Motor Medics® online at Underthehoodshow. com.
Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com
Grey Eagle City • March 11, 2025
The regular meeting of the Grey Eagle City Council was called to order by Mayor Joseph Arnzen at 7:00 pm on the 11th day of March 2025 in Council Chambers. Council members present were Brad Johnson, Brian Hollenkamp, Roland Ahrendt and Chris Browen. No council members were absent. Also in attendance were Leon Althaus and Beth Ramacher and guest: Chris Konsor.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the amended agenda. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve the minutes of the February 11, 2025 meeting. A second was made by Chris Browen and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
Various maintenance items were discussed. The City will contact Todd County about cleaning out the east ditch on County 102 / Maple Street North by the park. A new tonneau cover for the Dodge truck is needed; quotes will be gotten.
No sealed bids were received for the old table and chairs from the Council Chambers. The City will ask the library if they are interested in the table for their conference room.
Quotes were received to mow and trim the Lakeview Cemetery for 2025. The Council will not be accepting any of the bids and the City will continue to do it in-house.
Discussion was held on possible future park improvements. More information will be presented at a future meeting.
Two sections of the boat ramp at Bass Lake heaved over the winter. The City will contact the DNR to see if this is something they take care of. If not, Herdering will be called to fix this.
The library needs two new emergency exit lights wired and installed – front and back doors. Bitz Electric will be contacted for a quote.
A motion was made by Joe Arnzen to approve black picnic tables to be ordered with the Sourcewell Match Funding money received. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
An inspection report from Chase Diesel Services was reviewed. The inspection was done on the 2006 Chevy truck that was purchased from the Minnesota DNR for fire department use.
The interior water tower inspection and cleaning report was reviewed from Maguire Iron. They are scheduled to return Spring 2025 to inspect and
clean the exterior.
The Council would like to have the City Attorney draft a letter to the owner of 218 Cedar Street South regarding the semi-trucks and trailers parked on the street, with units running.
A motion was made by Brad Johnson to raise the credit limit on the main visa card to $5000 and the visa for the fire chief to $1500. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to have the Clerk/Treasurer invest money from the checking and/or money market account into a certificate of deposit when deemed necessary. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Brad Johnson to not renew the cloud access for the speed signs for the discounted price. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2025-08: Resolution Accepting $200 from Orleen Hoffman for the Grey Eagle Fire Department. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-08: A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING $200 DONATION FROM ORLEEN HOFFMAN FOR THE GREY EAGLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
WHEREAS, money has been donated by Orleen Hoffman; and WHEREAS, the City Council feels that the donation will benefit citizens of the area;
1. That the City Council of the City of Grey Eagle formally accepts the donation from Orleen Hoffman for the Fire Department.
2. That the City Clerk is authorized and directed to make the appropriate revenue and expenditure budget adjustments as needed to reflect this donation and its intended use.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 11th day of March 2025.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2025-09: Resolution Accepting $300 from Theresa Tschida for the Grey Eagle Fire Department. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-09: A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING $300 DONATION FROM THERESA TSCHIDA FOR THE GREY EAGLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
WHEREAS, money has been donated by Theresa Tschida; and WHEREAS, the City Council feels that the donation will benefit citizens of the area;
1. That the City Council of the City of Grey Eagle formally accepts the donation from Theresa Tschida for the Fire Department.
2. That the City Clerk is authorized and directed to make the appropriate revenue and expenditure budget adjustments as needed to reflect this donation and its intended use.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 11th day of March 2025.
A motion was made by Joseph Arnzen to approve the building permit application from Brian and Lori Hollenkamp to add a 16’ x 26’ concrete slab where the front deck was. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members (Brian Hollenkamp abstained) voting in favor, motion carried.
Discussion was held on paving sections of streets in the City that were not paved with the sewer project or last fall. The City will get quotes and present at a future meeting.
Discussion was held on pest control at the ponds; none is needed at this time.
An inquiry about employment was discussed. There are currently no open positions within the City.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve payment of Claims #3392-3416, totaling $52,714.19 and include additional payments of the following: MN Power $2576.07 and Todd
County Sheriff $317.40. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to adjourn the meeting at 8:15 pm. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
The next regular meeting of the Grey Eagle City Council will be held at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 in Council Chambers. Beth Ramacher, Clerk/Treasurer
ST. MARTIN: Spring city-wide garage sales, Fri. & Sat., April 25th & 26th. Watch for balloons.
WANTED TO BUY: Dairy Heifers and Cows. 320-894-7175. SC-evB
Holtz Tree Service and Firewood Bowlus, MN; is seeking individual interested in Full Time/Part Time Employment. Duties include outdoor work pertaining to firewood/tree work. Day shift work Monday thru Friday, no weekends. Paid weekly wage based on performance. Will train. Must have a valid driver’s license. Call or text 320-360-3512
Grey Eagle/Burtrum Lions Club is collecting old glasses, phones and hearing aids to refurbish and distribute around the world. If you have any please drop off at Neville Hardware, Grey Eagle.
WANTED: Cars and pickups from the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, in your weeds or sheds. 218-640-3807 or 218-756-2257.
WANTED: Geo Tracker, good shape, reasonable price. Call 320-267-5632.
WANTED: Family looking for a dairy farm. Call 320-360-6589.
FREE KITTENS: Tri-colored black white gray brown with tiger stripes, people friendly and litter trained. Call 320-874-1723.
PUPPIES FOR SALE: Shihtzu mix born Jan. 12th, $200, 1 male, 4 females, vet checked, 2nd shots. Call 1-877-243-2823 hearing impaired, 320-573-2631. 4/24
FOR SALE: Travel trailer 2020 Wildwood Heritage Glen 25rbhl, gently used, $18,000 or best offer. Grey Eagle 612-716-4427. tfn
FREE: Rabbits. Call 320-874-1723.
FOR SALE: 1996 Toyota Camry, $1500, runs good. Call 320-632-3336. TOP DOWN SILO LLC • Take down & cleanup of silos in congested areas • Mobile Concrete Crushing • Fully Insured 507-236-9446 topdownsilo.com
FOR SALE: Two sections of 6’H, 8’W wood fence, new $25/each. Call 517-512 -3342.
FOR SALE: Patio table glass/wrought iron 64”x42”, 5 matching chairs. Call 320-3526976.
FOR SALE: Ram 1500 Lone Star Edition 2021 Texas truck, 470,300 miles, fully loaded, 5.7L, white 4 door, $43,000. 320-2320823
During a bank robbery the police chief told the sergeant to cover all exits so the robbers could not get away.
Later the sergeant reports to the chief, “Sorry sir, but they got away.”
The chief, very disappointed, says, “I told you to cover all exits.”
“I did,” replied the sergeant, “But they got away through the entrance.”
