Harvey Mackay
Municipality Minutes: Upsala City Page 7
Turkeys. Photo by Judy Van Heel.
Hometown News
29442 120th St.
Grey Eagle, MN 56336 320-285-2323
Email: htnews@icloud.com
Website: www.hometownnews.biz www.facebook.com/hometownnews
Published By Lori Young
MONDAYS • 5 PM
The Hometown News is a free weekly publication, which is published and distributed every Thursday.
Free Distribution In:
Anna St. Rosa Sauk Centre Swanville Upsala
Sales: Lori Young Office: 320-285-2323
Cell: 612-597-2998
Email: htnews@icloud.com
Classified Ads
Email: htnews@icloud.com
Personal Classifieds:
Garage Sales, For Sale Items, Wanted (Personal) FREE up to 20 words; 25¢ for each additional word. Classifieds over the word limit must be prepaid.
Business Related Classifieds: Wanted (Items for Profit), Help Wanted, For Rent: $5.00 for the first 20 words, 25¢ per each additional word.
Mail to: Hometown News, 29442 120th St., Grey Eagle, MN 56336. Email: htnews@icloud.com
Photos • Press Releases
Photos & press releases are welcome. Email: htnews@icloud.com
Obituaries
Publish one time free of charge. Email: htnews@icloud.com
Card of Thanks
Cards of Thanks is $5.00 for the first 50 words, 10¢ per each additional word. Must be prepaid.
To be billed: a $5 minimum applies. Email: htnews@icloud.com
Announcements
Birth Announcements, Anniversaries, Birthday Open House, Engagements, Weddings are free of charge for one publication. For additional weeks $15/week. Email: htnews@icloud.com
A prestamped, self addressed envelope is required to return photos.
Subscriptions
The subscription rates for 13 weeks is $15.00
26 weeks is $27.00
52 weeks is $54.00
Mail to: Hometown News, 29442 120th St., Grey Eagle, MN 56336
Focus: The person who is everywhere is nowhere -By
Harvey Mackay
A martial arts student approaches his instructor with a question. “I’d like to improve my knowledge of the martial arts. In addition to learning from you, I’d like to study with another teacher to learn another style. What do you think of this idea?”
The master answered, “The hunter who chases two rabbits catches neither one.”
Thomas Edison famously said, “Genius is one percent inspiration and 99 percent perspiration.” Edison spent months and years inventing the light bulb, the phonograph and the motion picture camera. These items didn’t come about from just a flash of inspiration. You must determine where your strengths lie and then focus them on your objectives. Focus is the key word.
It is simply a way of mobilizing and concentrating on power. Take the water in a steam boiler. It has no more potential than the water in your shower. But the water in the steam boiler, when energized and focused, can propel locomotives. The unfocused, nonenergized water in the bathtub just goes down the drain.
How many times have you heard an athlete talk about focus? I love to watch and study athletes as they are getting ready to compete. You can see them running through their races or routines in their minds. Nothing
can distract them. It’s easy to maintain focus when everything is going well, but great athletes keep their focus when they are staring at defeat. A sure way to fail is to lose focus.
The same is true in business. The most common complaints: Too many irons in the fire. Too many projects spinning at one time. Too many interruptions. Too many phone calls. Too many emails. Too many things to do. Too little time.
Decide what is most important. Stay focused as best you can, and don’t just let things happen to you – not when you can make things happen.
Make a list every day or week and prioritize your activities. Scale back the amount of time you spend on meetings. They can be the biggest timewasters of all. Learn to delegate, and make sure all members of your team follow through on assigned tasks. Set aside a specific time of day to return phone calls and emails and keep distractions to a minimum. In other words, set rules about how others use your time. And if you are not the boss, work with your supervisor to make sure you agree on priorities.
Years ago, when I played golf for the University of Minnesota, my coach, Les Bolstad, drove home the point about focus. I remember practicing and getting ready for the NCAA Golf Championship Tournament at Purdue University. Les told me to focus on each shot as if it was going to be my last. I would say to myself, “This is the last drive I‘m ever going to hit, so it better be good. This is the last putt that I’m ever going to make, and so on.”
I’ve carried that philosophy through to my work life. “This is the last speech I’m ever
going to give, so it better be good. This is the last book I’m ever going to write … This is the last acquisition I’m ever going to make …” It takes that kind of focus to succeed. I’m convinced that one of the top reasons that keeps people from getting what they want is a lack of focus. People who focus on what they want to achieve, prosper. Those who don’t, struggle.
“Successful people maintain a positive focus in life no matter what is going on around them,” said Jack Canfield, author of “The Success Principles.” “They stay focused on their past successes rather than their past failures, and on the next action steps they need to take to get them closer to the fulfillment of their goals rather than all the other distractions that life presents to them.”
And he makes an especially important point: to focus on past successes rather than failures. I’m convinced that fear of failure, and concentrating on what happens if things go wrong, is a focus-killer.
When you worry about the what-ifs instead of what can be, you suck the energy out of the project. Sure, you need to be aware of obstacles. Plan for success, not failure. Focus instead on how to avoid or fix problems in order to achieve the result you want. Keep your eye on the prize!
Mackay’s Moral: To avoid fuzzy thinking, keep your goals in focus.
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.”
Upcoming Events
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15
• 20th Annual Grey Eagle-Burtrum Lions Race On Trace starting at 11 a.m. on Trace Lake, Grey Eagle. See ad on page 8.
• Valentine’s Banquet at 6 p.m. at Word of Life Church, Upsala.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17
• Minnesota Darkhouse & Angling Association Heartland Chapter Meeting starting at 6:30 p.m. at Pioneer Inn, Freeport. See ad on page 5.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19
• Grey Eagle Senior Center Meeting at 11:30 a.m. Potluck & Bingo to follow.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
• Melrose American Legion Fish Fry from 4:30-7:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
• Sobieski & Swanille Lions Club 32nd Annual Fishing Contest & Raffle. 12-3 p.m. on Long Lake, Swanville. See ad on page 7.
FRI.-SUN., FEB. 21-23
& FRI.-SUN., FEB. 28-MARCH 2
• The Resurrected Artists Present ‘Don’t Mention My Name’ Dinner Theatre at Shady’s Sunset Bay, St. Anna. Fri. & Sat. at 5:30 p.m. Sun. at noon. See ad on page 8.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
• Sacred Heart School Big Buck Bingo starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Freeport Community Center.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23
• Catholic United Financial Matching Grant Fundraiser Breakfast from 9 a.m.12:30 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church Basement. See ad on page 5.
• Confirmation Bingo Fundraiser at 1
p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, Freeport. SUNDAY, MARCH 2
• New Munich Lions Pancake & Sausage Breakfast from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church Basement, New Munich.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5
• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle.
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.
“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne
Treasures
I don’t know how many of you have changed your place of residence recently, but if you have, you’ll know what I’m writing about. We in America typically accumulate a lot of worthless junk that we store in closets in our homes. It stays in that place without being seen or used for years or in some cases, a half of a century. These items may include all the Christmas cards from 29 years ago. A gathering of items that we thought were pretty at the time, but have since lost their color and desirability. When it becomes necessary to move out of the current residence, the move becomes a real pain, because suddenly we realize that we are moving a bunch of stuff that we really don’t have any use for. We can move it, throw it away, or do a garage sale and try to sell some of the precious items for a nickel on a dollar. Many items don’t sell, because the shoppers already have those items and remember that they don’t need them either. So now we need to haul them to the dump or Good Will, but there will be no space wasted on them at the new location.
When one considers the space that the unneeded items consume, the actual needed square feet of living space can be reduced.
That mis-used space is heated, taxes are paid on the misused space and the space also is subject to repair and upkeep. Why do we do it? Maybe it is because those items are so near and dear to us, but if they really were, we would not ignore them for years. Hmm....
For us guys, there is a different situation that applies to our shop. Many of us have tools that may have belonged to our Fathers and Grandfathers. The original purpose for the tools may no longer exist, for instance a foot rasp to trim the horses feet while reshooing them. But recently I needed to make a cupboard drawer hole a little wider and the rasp did the job. Murphy’s Law says that if you no longer have a certain tool, you’ll very soon find that you need it for a project or repair that you need to get done. Now you either buy a new tool, which will take up about as much space as the one you no longer have, or the other alternative is to borrow the tool from a neighbor, which may be the reason that your tool disappeared from your shop in the first place. Do you remember the last time you began a project and all the items you needed were all in the place that you thought they would be? I don’t remember that well. Most repairs require at least 5 trips back to the tool shelves.
Oh well, we are what we are.
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
From the Desk of Pastor Bruce
At our church we have a Bible Study on Wednesday evenings. There are not many who come, but the ones who do come are very interested in learning more about the Bible. It is a very interactive study of the book of James. We read James in 10-12 versions, open up the commentaries, and look at corresponding verses that apply. Many times we get off on a rabbit trail, opening up other discussions about questions we may have concerning God’s Word. I have become very fond of our time in the middle of the week.
This morning, Thursday, the day after our study… I got my laptop ready on my desk to get to work on this article. I had to plug in the power cord but there was a message on my computer that said something like the computer does not recognize the power source. I glanced at the power cord, and it wasn’t plugged in all the way!
Here is my observation, first of all, as believers we put our trust in Jesus and we get to spend eternity with Him. But here is the deal, turning our life over to Jesus isn’t just something we say, its something we live. 2 Chronicles 7:14 “if my people, who are called by
my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Also in Joshua 3:5 (NLT) Then Joshua told the people, “Purify yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do great wonders among you.”
This is what we do in order to be plugged into God’s power! We need to trust and obey Him. Peter found this out when Jesus told him to “Come.” Matthew 14:27-29 “But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.”
Humble yourself before God and Obey Him today.
-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
By Barb Dinkel Goodrich, Lead Advocate/ Supervisor, Hands of Hope Resource Center, Todd County
The Resource Center for Domestic Violence defines teen dating violence as a pattern of abuse against teens who are dating or involved in any kind of romantic capacity. This violence includes threats to the victim along with verbal, physical, emotional, sexual, and even digital forms of abuse.
In the United States, about 33% of male and female teens are victims of dating abuse, and about 43% of college aged women also reported experiencing these dating behaviors. These statistics justified an important need for an awareness month. Therefore, on January 31, 2011, President Barack Obama declared that every February be recognized as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.
This year’s theme, Respect That, is a powerful concept. Respecting someone isn’t just a vague idea; it’s action and mindset. Healthy and loving relationships can happen when respect is a cornerstone – when trust and emotional safety thrive. There are three important ways to show respect in a relationship:
• Respect Boundaries
- Boundaries help define what you are comfortable with and how you want to be treated by others. They allow you to honor your needs, goals, feelings, and values.
• Respect Levels of Consent
- Healthy relationships allow partners to communicate
Specials: 11 AM-1 PM Fri., Feb. 14: Cheeseburger w/Chili Mon., Feb. 17: Sausage & Kraut Soup w/Cheeseburger Tues., Feb. 18: Baked Chicken Dinner Wed., Feb. 19: Cook’s Choice Thurs., Feb. 20: Liver & Onions Fri., Feb. 21: Cheeseburger w/Chili
openly and to agree on what activities they want to pursue. Consent means respecting boundaries and never making assumptions. Consent should be clear, enthusiastic, and freely given.
• Engage in Respectful Communication
- Healthy relationships require respect and communication. You should be able to voice your concerns and needs without fear of harming the relationship. Speak your truth respectfully and listen to your partner’s point of view. Everyone deserves a safe and healthy relationship. If you or someone you know has questions about a relationship, healthy or unhealthy, please contact Hands of Hope Resource Center at 320-732-2319.
Remember, love has many definitions but abuse is not one of them.
Daniel H. “Danny” Lange
Daniel H. “Danny” Lange, age 82, of Freeport, passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2025.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, February 10 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in St. Francis with Rev. Jimmy Joseph officiating. Inurnment will be held in the parish cemetery at a later date.
Danny was born in Albany, Minnesota on April 19, 1942 to Joseph and Rose (Herbes) Lange. He married Rita Fuchs at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Upsala on June 11, 1983. The couple farmed in various locations for seven years. Danny worked at Johnson Water & Sewer in Becker and then began working with Donlar Construction. In retirement, he did fieldwork for various farmers in the area.
Danny was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, St. Francis Men’s Society, and the Local Laborers Union 563.
Danny enjoyed playing cards, casino runs, watching his grandchildren’s’ sporting events, ice fishing, and yard work. Danny had a good sense of humor and was a good bullshitter.
Danny is survived by his wife, Rita Lange of Freeport; six children, Kate (Josh) Bartkowicz of Albany, Rosanne (Ambrose) Opatz of Annandale, Paula (Barb) Lange of St. Cloud, Joan (Dale) Donnay of Sauk Centre, Bob (Lynn) Lange of Watkins, and Henry Lange of Otsego; eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Adolph Lange, Darlene Kostreba, Paulette (Harold) Meier, and Stephen (Brenda) Lange.
Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Rose (Herbes) Lange; son, John Lange; daughter-in-law, Sue Lange; brothers, Gene Lange, David Lange, and Joseph Lange; and sister-in-law, Diane Lange.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
Victor
J. Althaus
Victor “Tigger” J. Althaus, 50 year old resident of Swanville, MN passed away February 5, 2025 at Regency Hospital in Minneapolis, MN.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00
A.M. on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, MN with Rev. Gregg Valentine officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30-11:00 A.M on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, MN. Caring for Victor and his family is the LeMieur Funeral Home in Little Falls, MN.
Victor J. Althaus, was born on December 5, 1974, in Little Falls, MN, to Elaine M. Heinz and the late Victor A. Althaus. He grew up in Little Falls, attending school and graduating from Little Falls Community High School with the Class of 1993. He continued his education at St. Cloud Technical College for two years.
Victor had a strong work ethic and was dedicated to his career. He worked at Wal-Mart in Baxter as a support manager in leadership from 1998 to 2012. In 2015, he joined Bernick’s Pepsi in Waite Park, MN, where he remained until 2022. Beyond work, Victor had many passions. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He also had a deep love for all things Star Trek, and was an enthusiastic gamer. He spent countless hours playing Dungeons & Dragons, collecting Magic: The Gathering cards, and enjoying classic Nintendo games. Victor will be remembered for his kind heart, unique sense of humor, and love for his family and friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
He is survived by mother, Elaine Althaus of Little Falls, MN; sister, Lisa (Charles) Borash of Swanville, MN; cousins, Betty Jo (Jason) Franzen of Pine River, MN and Joey (Karen) Novotny of Foley, MN; close friend, Autumn Joy Anderson of Little Falls, MN; and step-kids, Daniel Urbanski of TX, Kenneth Urbanski of Alexandria, MN, Lyle Urbanski of St. Cloud, MN, Justin Urbanski of Little Falls, MN and Charles Urbanski of Little Falls, MN.
Victor was preceded in death by his father, Victor A. Althaus; grandparents, Margaret & Joseph Heinz and Vic & Marie Althaus; and aunt, Lois Novotny.
Michael J. Robischon
Michael J. “Mike” Robischon, age 79 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 10, 2025 at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, February 17 at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic in Sauk Centre with Rev.
Mark Botzet officiating. Inurnment will be held in the parish cemetery with military honors by the Sauk Centre United Veterans Honor Guard.
Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday at the church.
Michael Joseph Robischon was born August 28, 1945 in St. Cloud, Minnesota to Bernard and Alice (Fraser) Robischon. He served in the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged in 1969. He was united in marriage to Shirley Macey on August 9, 1980 at St. Alexius Catholic Church in West Union. Mike and his brother, Pete, owned and operated Eden Valley Lanes in Eden Valley. Mike also worked at Animal Fair and Manhattan Toy in Eden Valley until his retirement in 2012. He enjoyed spending time at the cabin on South Long Lake in Brainerd where he would sit on the deck and admire the lake and watch wildlife. Mike especially loved riding on the pontoon with his family.
Survivors include his loving wife of 44 years, Shirley Robischon of Sauk Centre; daughter, Sara (Zach) Keeton of Big Lake; granddaughters, Zoey and Aleah; brothers and sister, Dick (Mary) Robischon of Centerville, Jim (Ronnie) Robischon of Sauk Centre, Pat (Deb) Robischon of Sauk Centre, Paul (Jay) Robischon of Sauk Centre, and Patti (Dave) Burns of Morris; and sister-in-law, Sharon Robischon of Paynesville.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Peter “Pete”’ Robischon; and nephew, Jon Burns.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
Ervin Dale Van Heukelom
The celebration of life for Ervin Dale Van Heukelom, age 68 of Albany, was held Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Miller-Carlin Funeral Home in Albany. Ervin passed away Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at the St. Cloud Hospital.
William A. “Bill” Opatz
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12 Noon on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Avon for William A. “Bill” Opatz, age 87, of Avon, who passed away on Friday, February 7, 2025 at the St. Cloud V.A. Medical Center. Reverend Isaiah Frederick, OSB and Reverend Edward Vebelun, OSB will concelebrate. Burial, with full military honors, will be in the St. Benedict’s Parish Cemetery in Avon. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Avon.
Bill was born on June 28, 1937 to Phillip and Theresa (Heitzman) Opatz in Holdingford, Minnesota. He grew up in Holdingford and attended school until eighth grade. In order to help support his family, Bill was sent to North Dakota to help as a farm hand. Eventually, Bill enlisted in the United States Navy and honorably served his country during the Korean War and beginning of the Vietnam War. On August 10, 1959 he was united in marriage to Shirley Studniski at St. John’s Abbey Church in Collegeville. Bill held various jobs throughout his life including, working in Maintenance at Regis in Minneapolis, as a Machinist for Hanauer Machine Shop in Avon, as a truck driver for both Nash Finch and Budde Trucking and as grounds maintenance at St. John’s University. He was a member of St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Avon, the Avon American Legion Post #538 and the Mr. and Mrs. Fishing Club of Avon.
Bill was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his family. He was an avid outdoorsman enjoying going hunting, fishing and camping. Never one to sit still, Bill was also an incredible handyman who enjoyed tinkering and fixing things. He also enjoyed going on trips to the casino and wintering in Arizona. He will be remembered for his love of family and easy going nature.
Ervin was born August 28, 1956, in Baldwin, Wisconsin to Glen and Bertha (Te Grootenhuis) Van Heukelom. Ervin married Tami Blegem on July 4, 2017, in Iron Mountain, Michigan. Ervin was a loving Father, Husband, and Grandparent, a man of intellect, humor, discernment, and strong faith, who loved spending time with family and friends. His family meant the world to him, especially his wife, children, and grandchildren. Ervin worked at Pace Industries as a Foundry Worker. Ervin was a member of the Albany Pioneer Club and Scorpion Snowmobile Club.
Ervin is survived by his wife, Tami, and their children and grandchildren, Amanda Cantillo of Indiana; Daniel (Karilyn) Lund and children Jaclyn (3) and Zackery (2) of Albany and Anne (Ryan) Thibodo and children Waylon (4) and Etta Louise (3 months), Baxter. He is also survived by their Guardian Grandchildren, Amy Van Heukelom, (15); Janaya White, (12), and Nevada White, (11). He is also survived by his siblings Shirley Van Dis, Zeeland, Michigan; Richard Van Heukelom, Grandville, Michigan and Cynthia Bekken.
Ervin is preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Bertha (Te Grootenhuis) Van Heukelom, son, Stephen Thompson, former wife, Joan Anna Van Heukelom, and brother-in-law, John Van Dis.
Bill is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Shirley; children, Timothy of Dassel, Tanya (Tim) Baker of Eagan, and Terri (Randy) Johnson of Emily; grandchildren, Melissa (Andy) Erlandson, Mitch (Brittney) and Mikayla Opatz; Charley, Sam (Karissa) and Jack Baker; Trista Kociemba, Tasha (Isaac) Curtis, and Lexi Johnson; great grandchildren, Rylan, Owen and Wyatt Erlandson; Vayda, Vince, and Valorie Opatz; Brady and Logan Baker; Hailey and Haiden Kociemba; Lindsay, Allyson and Baya Curtis; great great granddaughter, Lanie St. Onge; siblings, Lloyd, Eugene and Judy Rossel; sisters-in-law, Elaine, Jane, and Della; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; great grandson, Bryce Baker; siblings, Edward, George, Rita (Curt) Venske, Delores (Red) Newcomb, Mary Ann (Jim) Wilson, Jack, LeRoy (Mary Jo), Lorraine (Lyle) Hoffman, and Darlene Burski; sister-in-law, Delores and Ruth Opatz.
Christine Theresia Maleska
Christine Theresia Maleska, age 94 of Avon, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 8, 2025, at Mother of Mercy hospice care in Albany, Minnesota.
A mass celebrating Christine’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 13th at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Anna with Father Virgil Helmin, her nephew, and Father Greg Mastey officiating. Family and friends are welcome to visit one hour prior to the mass. The interment will be in the parish cemetery.
Christine was born on August 8, 1930, to John and Christina (Arceneau) Blonigen in a stone house south of St. Martin built by her great-grandfather. In 1942, the family moved to a farm south of Richmond. Christine married Ted Maleska on June 16, 1953, at Saint Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Richmond, Minnesota. They lived in California for a short time while Ted served in the US Marine Corps. When Ted was discharged, they moved back to Minnesota and purchased a farm in the Avon area where they lived until they retired and built a home in the town of Avon in 1998.
Christine was known for her love of life, sense of humor, and dedication to her faith, family, and community. She was an active member of Immaculate Conception Church where she taught religious education classes for over 20 years. She also served as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, and on the parish council. Christine especially enjoyed volunteering at the church festival’s Quilt Stand each year into her 80s. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, and embroidery. For generations, family and friends were given beautiful handmade quilts, lap blankets, embroidered dish towels, and other works of sewn art. She took pride in the quality of her work and attention to detail.
Christine was a fan of travel, with some of her best advice being to “travel when you’re young.” Over the years some of the places Christine and Ted traveled to included Israel, Rome, Australia, New Zealand, and her favorites Germany and the Holy Land. She enjoyed recounting these travels to family and friends. In her later years, Christine continued to love to visit with people, celebrate, or go on adventures. Additionally, she never lost her great sense of humor, always enjoying a good laugh. Christine was also determined to be independent. She lived in her home until just after her 94th birthday with just a little help. Christine remained dedicated to her faith, starting each day with prayer before moving on to her sewing, quilting, or embroidery. Knowing Christine was praying for you brought everyone peace. She will be deeply missed.
Survivors include her children, Marilyn (Michael Ruprecht) Maleska of Rice; Joanne (Kevin) Stoermann of St. Cloud; Alice (Doug) Nevins of Avon; Brenda (Ron) Zierden of Avon; Jeanne (Brian) Pilarski of Avon; Nancy Maleska of Chaska; Debbie (Dan) Babcock of Maple Grove; Susan (Russell) Burton of Savage; Bob (Jen Ryan) Maleska of Avon; Michael Maleska of Denver; son-in-law Tom Salzer (Debbie Timperley-Byrne) of Sauk Rapids; over 40 grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, and brother-in-law Al (Marlene) Maleska of St. Joseph.
Christine was preceded in death by her husband, Ted Maleska on October 4, 2008; parents; daughter Sandy Salzer; grandson Tyler Burton; sisters Rosa Schefers, Veronica Schlangen, Clara Minnerath, Louise Linz, and brothers Paul, Daniel, Clement, and Frank Blonigen.
Mary Ellen Court
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM on Monday, February 24, 2025, at the Church of Saint Benedict, Avon. A visitation will take place one hour prior to mass. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.
Mary Ellen (Merdan) Court, age 85, of Avon, Minnesota, died in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loving family on February 8, 2025. She had been living with cancer for two years. Mary was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and will be greatly missed.
Mary was born on August 2, 1939, to Frank and Julia (Gretsch) Merdan of Collegeville, Minnesota. She was the first child of Frank and Julia’s three children. Mary attended Cathedral High School in St. Cloud, Minnesota, where she participated in the chamber choir and graduated with honors in 1957. After high school, Mary enrolled in the St. Cloud School of Nursing, and in 1960 began her life-long career as a registered nurse.
Mary married Michael Court on June 6, 1961. After their wedding at St. John the Baptist Church in Collegeville, Mike and Mary resided in both St. Cloud and Avon, before building and settling in their family home five miles west of Avon. They were blessed with six children.
Mary was a busy working mother, not only with her full-time career as a nurse but also working alongside Mike at Court Cabinet Shop, which he owned and operated in Avon for more than 25 years. Despite the demands of work, Mary was always there for her children, attending every event in which her children participated, and even serving as President of the Huskie Booster Club, the volunteer club that supports many of the athletic programs at Albany High School where her children attended.
After the children were grown, Mary spent time with Mike traveling extensively on their motorcycle across the United States and spent multiple summers touring through Canada to Alaska. Mary also loved spending time gardening in her beautiful flower beds, crafting, and quilting.
Throughout her 40-year nursing career, Mary held various staff and administrative positions, but she found her passion in oncology nursing. She held an oncology nursing certification (OCN) and volunteered for the American Cancer Society, leading “I Can Cope” classes for advanced and end-stage cancer patients and their families. She was a revered mentor to her nursing colleagues and a compassionate caregiver and counselor to countless patients and families impacted by cancer.
Mary is survived by her children, Gordon (Terri) Court of Fargo, Michelle Court of Marcell, Paul (Jana) Court of Cold Spring, Patrick (Sharyl) Court of Cologne, Christine (David) Jackson of St. Paul, and John (Jane) Court of Avon. She is also survived by her grandchildren Becky Berg, Ben/Cassie Court, Josh Court, Samantha Johnson, Max Court, Nicole Nefstead, and Miles Jackson, and her precious great-grandchildren, McKinley and Maverick Berg. Surviving siblings are David Merdan and Doris (Merdan) Goerger. Preceding Mary in death are her parents and Michael Court, her husband of 58 years.
Minnesota Darkhouse & Angling
Association Heartland Chapter Meeting February 17th at Pioneer Inn, Freeport, MN
6:30 PM Social 7:30 PM Meeting Public Welcome!
The Double R sponsored a Vintage Snowmobile Show held Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025 in Grey Eagle. Traditionally, it would have been a Vintage Snowmobile Ride. This is the second year with not enough snow for the ride. Photos submitted by Mike Meagher.
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.
Dave Says -By Dave Ramsey
Dear Dave, I just finished paying off my credit card bills from last Christmas, and I’ve made a resolution that it’s the last time I’m going into debt for the holidays. With that in mind, how do you feel about using layaway programs when it comes to buying Christmas gifts, instead of putting purchases on credit cards?
-Marty
Dear Marty,
Here’s a good rule of thumb for pretty much all spending, not just Christmas gifts. If you can’t buy it with cash up front, you can’t afford it. The only thing I generally give folks a little wiggle room on is when it comes to buying a house. Very few people have enough money set aside to write a check for a home. Now, sometimes there might be cases when certain popular items are on sale, and you can set them aside through layaway if you don’t have cash at the moment. I don’t have a huge problem with this sort of thing, as long as it’s not habitual behavior. But in general, I’m not a big fan of layaway programs. I know they seem harmless to most folks, but some stores attach hidden fees and other “gotchas” to their layaway programs. On top of that, they’re not the best answer to the problem of running up a mountain of debt at Christmas.
Think about it. Christmas comes at the same time every year, right? I mean, it’s not like it sneaks up on you. So, wouldn’t it be a better to start living on a written budget, and saving up money for Christmas ahead of time? Set aside a little bit each month leading up to December, and by the time Christmas 2025 rolls around, you’ll have a big pile of cash just waiting to be turned into Christmas gifts. And the best part? No financial hangover in January and February from all the debt you piled up. So, if you’re not already doing this, Marty, I want you to start living on a budget. Give every dollar you bring in a job to do, on paper, before the upcoming month begins. Include Christmas spending in your budget, too.
And always remember, Christmas is about God’s love for us. Not about impressing people by spending money you don’t have!
-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.”
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070
Mon., Feb. 17: Chicken patty on bun, green beans, sweet potato.
Tues., Feb. 18: Meatless lasagna roll ups, broccoli, peaches, bread.
Wed., Feb. 19: Taco meat, shredded cheese, corn, Spanish rice, tortilla chips.
Thurs., Feb. 20: Polish sausage, fried onions & peppers, baked potato, vegetable Normandy, bread.
Fri., Feb. 21: Spaghetti w/meat sauce, noodles, peas, breadstick.
Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
Ask The Motor Medics®
Dear Motor Medics,
I am looking to buy a small SUV like a Ford Escape or a Chevy Trax or similar or possibly a slightly larger model like the Explorer. I have heard that there may be concerns with the turbo engines failing earlier than expected and don’t want to get stuck with an expensive repair. What are your thoughts on these engines and the vehicles overall?
-Chase in Atlanta, Georgia
Dear Chase, We work on a number of these vehicles in our own shop and overall, they are pretty good but there are several things to think about. Due to the small engine size on the smaller SUVs, they tend to work harder. When they get out on the highway with a load or get driven hard in town the engines can wear faster and more so if you don’t maintain the oil system with regular oil changes, you are asking for trouble. Regular changes does not mean following the dash indicator. These engines prefer 3 months or 3k mile changes. The longer change intervals can lead to oil breakdown and early wear. We have replaced a number of turbos on these cars that all failed due to oil system issues. The larger Explorer with the Ecoboost has a lot more engine to move the vehicle and can even be a very capable tow vehicle but you also need to maintain the oil systems to keep them running as they should be.
-Take care, The Motor Medics
Dear Motor Medics,
I never miss your show and a couple of weeks ago you talked about getting a Dodge Challenger out of storage. The mom who called for her son in the Navy wanted to have it ready for him after two years of storage. I too have a stored vehicle. I put away my 2010 Mustang with the V8 five years ago with a full tank of gas and fuel stabilizer and left it in a uncontrolled storage unit. What should I be looking at doing? The tires are all flat as well.
-Ronald in Fargo, North Dakota
Dear Ronald,
The longer you store a car the more that needs to be done when it is finally taken out and put back into service. You mentioned tires that are flat. If those tires are cracked, they should
be replaced. Also check the date on them and again, replace them if needed. Even with the fuel stabilizer the fuel may have turned bad. If so, you will need to have it replaced and use a fuel system additive to clean up the system. You can also plan on a new battery for sure. Check for any rodent damage and make sure there are no leaks paying close attention to the brakes. We also recommend running the starter with an override tool to build oil pressure before starting it. Make sure you consult with your local hands-on mechanic too for more info.
-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.
Stearns Co. Sheriff’s Office
Building Fire: February 5, 2025: At approximately 12:40 p.m., the Stearns County Emergency Communications Center received a report of a possible building fire at Centre Pallet and Lumber located at 37622 395th Avenue in Getty Township. The caller Alan Lawinger, 57, of Sauk Centre, reported that there was smoke coming out of the boiler room attached to a 50x120 foot building. There had been recent electrical issues, and it was believed the insulation had started on fire. The Sauk Centre Fire Department along with Melrose Fire Department, Elrosa Fire Department, and Sauk Centre Ambulance responded to the fire. There were no injuries, and the fire was contained to the boiler room of the building.
The Art of Conversation
A new show is opening at The Art Of Conversation! “Love: The Beat Goes On” is running during the month of February.
There are many interesting 3-D exhibits as well as paintings and drawings. Some new local artists are featured. Come and vote on your favorite pieces. You can see last month’s favorites at Nana’s Kitchen.
The March show will be devoted to photographs and pottery.
Hours are Friday 2-6 pm; Saturday 10 am-2 pm; Sunday noon-2 pm. For more information, call Steve at (218) 428-8010.
Local Municipality Minutes
Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com
Upsala City • February 3, 2025
Call to Order/Attendance: The City Council meeting was called to order at Upsala City Hall by Mayor Kevin Breth at 7:00 P.M. The pledge of allegiance was said.
On roll call members present: Mayor Kevin Breth, Council Members Wendy Rene, Logan Vieth, Alan Gunderson, and Joan Olson. Staff present: City Clerk-Treasurer Jane Popp & Public Works Director-Mike Tschida.
Minutes: Rene moved to approve minutes from January 6, 2025, City Council Meeting, 2nd by Olson. Motion carried unanimously.
Added agenda items: Vieth moved to approve the agenda as presented, 2nd by Rene. Motion carried unanimously.
Department Reports: Fire Department Report: Chief Nicholas Johnson was absent, and nothing was reported.
First Response Team: First Response Team Vice President Haus reported five calls for January. The team finished HIPPA training. The meat raffle went well, and the next meat raffle is February 15, 2025.
Maintenance Report: Tschida reported on water and sewer levels as well as the various tasks done throughout the city. Tschida stated the chemical feed line pipes in the water plant were replaced.
City Office Report: Popp reviewed the February Calendar.
Planning Commission: Planning & Zoning commission is working with Sourcewell on revising and updating Upsala City ordinances.
Unfinished Business: Heritage Days: The next meeting is February 12, 2025.
New Business: Liquor License - Buffy’s Bar & Grill: Rene moved to approve the liquor license for Buffy’s Bar & Grill, 2nd by Vieth. Motion carried unanimously.
Liquor License - Upsala Ball Park Association Vieth moved to approve the liquor license to Upsala Ball Park Association, 2nd by Gunderson. Motion carried unanimously.
Morrison County Animal Humane Society: Gunderson moved to not sign the Morrison County Animal Humane Society Contract, 2nd by Rene. Motion carried unanimously.
Gambling Permit – Upsala Ball Park Association Rene moved to approve the Gambling Permit for Upsala Ball Park Association on August 10, 2025, with no waiting period, 2nd by Gunderson. Motion carried unanimously.
2025 Fee Schedule – Resolution 2-3-25-1 Rene moved to approve Resolution 2-3-25-1 the 2025 Fee Schedule, 2nd by Gunderson. Motion carried unanimously.
Financials: Rene moved to approve the bills as presented, 2nd by Gunderson. Motion carried unanimously.
Updates/FYI: Next Regular City Council Meeting will be March 3 at 7:00 pm. Mayor and new council members will be attending The Newly Elected Officials Training in Alexandria February 28 – March 1, 2025.
Adjourn: Gunderson moved to adjourn at 8:10 pm, 2nd by Vieth. Motion carried unanimously. Jane Popp, Clerk/Treasurer
North Central SBDC, SCORE Announce Mentor Mornings
The North Central Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Central Lakes College, in partnership with SCORE, is thrilled to announce Mentor Mornings, a new series designed to inspire, connect, and empower local entrepreneurs.
Each session offers attendees a chance to dive deep into a focused topic while building meaningful connections with likeminded business owners and leaders in the community. The events will take place from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM at the Fireside Lounge at Central Lakes College. Local coffee and treats will be provided.
Mentor Mornings Schedule and Topics:
• February 24: Growth Strategies (featuring Alison Medeck, BLAEDC)
• March 24: Content that Converts (featuring Jennifer Carnahan, Primrose Park)
• April 28: Leading Tiny Team (featuring Sandy Voigt, Women’s Business Alliance)
“Mentor Mornings is designed to create a space where entrepreneurs of all levels can come together to share their goals and struggles,” said Katie Heppner, Regional Director of the North Central SBDC. “Starting and owning a business can be an incredibly long and lonely journey, and by coming together with SCORE to provide these community-building events, we are hoping to offer a strong, supportive network to help small businesses in our region thrive.”
SCORE is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides expert guidance and assistance to thousands of start-ups and existing businesses. SCORE’s mission is to foster a vibrant small business community through
mentoring, learning and business development resources. SCORE’s vision is to assure that every person has the support they need to thrive as a small business owner. A SCORE mentor can talk with you about your business ideas; guide you through business definition and plan development all the way through supporting you in operations and financials. To learn more about SCORE, visit https://www.score.org/ or contact Erika Perrault at erika.perrault@scorevolunteer.org.
The North Central SBDC provides nocost, one-on-one business consulting and lowcost trainings to help entrepreneurs and small business owners start, grow and succeed. The North Central SBDC is hosted by Central Lakes College and works throughout an 11 county and two sovereign nation region. The geographic region served by the North Central SBDC includes: Aitkin, Cass, Chisago, Crow Wing, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Pine, Todd, and Wadena counties and the sovereign nations of the Leech Lake and Mille Lacs Bands of Ojibwe. To learn more about the North Central SBDC and to register for services visit www.clcmn.edu/small-business-development-center or contact Katie Heppner, Regional Director, at katherine.heppner@clcmn.edu.
Septic System Cost Assistance Opportunities
Todd County continues to have cost assistance available to residents of the County that need a septic system update. Cost assistance comes in the form of grants and/or loans. The difference between a grant and a loan is that a grant does not need to be paid back as long as the septic system remains in place for a minimum of 10 years. Loan funds must be repaid to the County with interest.
Grant funding is income driven and require submittal of tax documents to verify eligibility. Grants aim to pay for 75% - 80% of the system cost for qualifying home owners. Beyond the income requirements, properties must be homesteaded with the grant applicant living on the property as their full-time residence. The County requires submittal of two bids if you qualify for the grant in order to be sure that grants funds are used efficiently to assist as many people as possible.
Loan funding does not have the same income requirements but does require that there be adequate value on the property to secure the loan for the County. If the property value requirements can be met, anyone is eligible for the loan. Loans are paid back to the County as
a special assessment on your property taxes. At only 3% interest over 7 years, it will be difficult to find a better loan opportunity compared to what the County can provide. There is a $100 application fee that is required upon submittal of your loan application to the County. Grant recipients can also use the loan program to supplement the difference in the cost of a septic system. If you have questions about these potential funding programs or would like to express your interest. Please contact Planning and Zoning as your earliest convenience. You can contact the Planning and Zoning Office at 320-732-4420.
Kutter Insurance Agency
WANTED TO BUY: Dairy Heifers and Cows. 320-894-7175. SC-evB
VOLUNTEERS WANTED: For Meals on Wheels in Albany for routes in Holdingford, Albany, Avon & St. Joe. Please call 320845-4070 or visit our website at ccstcloud. org and click on link Volunteer request form. We need help in our kitchen, and delivering meals.
WORK WANTED: Manual labor work, farm, home, handy man, tree cutting, garden, misc. Will work for cash or trade. 320874-1723 2/13
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. RB-tfn
FREE KITTENS: Tri-colored black white gray with tiger stripes. People friendly & litter box trained. Call 320-874-1723.
FOR SALE: Whirlpool refrigerator 1 1/2 years old asking $500. Call 320-249-0249 or 249-6624.
Ben B. Ettle FOR ALL YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS! 320-285-2299 Email: kutt@meltel.net
APARTMENTS FOR RENT
In Albany: 1 & 2 Bedroom
Call Loreen for Details! Cats Ok
763-238-0616
PUPPIES FOR SALE: Mixed breed, vet checked at two months asking $160. Call or text Cole for more info. 320-493-7189.
FOR SALE: 2019 Polaris Ranger 900XP, EPS, stereo, low miles, nice condition $17,500. Call 320-584-5405.
FOR SALE: Coin banks, toy lunch boxes, Coka-Cola products. Call 320-333-8670. 2/27
DOWN SILO LLC • Take down & cleanup of silos in congested areas
Mobile Concrete Crushing
Fully Insured 507-236-9446 topdownsilo.com
RACE on TRACE
The Races will be held on Trace Lake, 1/2 mile West of Grey Eagle
Saturday, February 15, 2025
RACING STARTS AT 11:00 AM Admission: $10.00 - 1 Day (Under 12 yrs. FREE)
F-Stock 440 Series
Info. Call: Mike 320-815-1888
Info.: Bob 320-493-8485 Awards Banquet Immediately Following the Races at the Double R Bar & Grill
