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Hometown News
29442 120th St.
Grey Eagle, MN 56336 320-285-2323
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Listen and develop people -By Harvey Mackay
The boards of two fiercely competitive companies decided to organize a rowing match to challenge each other’s organizational and sporting abilities. The first company was strongly “Theory X” – ruthless, autocratic, zero staff empowerment, etc. The second company was more “Theory Y” – a culture of developing people, devolved responsibility and decision-making.
Race day arrived. The Y company’s boat appeared from the boathouse first, with its crew: eight rowers and a helmsman (the cox). Next followed the X company boat and its crew: eight helmsmen and a single rower.
Not surprisingly the Y company’s boat won an easy victory. The next day the X company board of directors held an inquest with the crew to review what had been learned from the embarrassing defeat, which might be of benefit to the organization, and any future re-match.
After a long and wearing meeting the X company board finally came to their decision. They concluded that the rower should be replaced immediately because clearly he had not listened well enough to the instructions he’d been given.
Talk about an example of how not to manage. This is what happens when a company becomes too large and stops listening to its employees and customers. They run the risk of losing touch with the very people who made them successful in the first place. It’s a perilous position to be in because the larger a company gets, the more challenging it can be
to maintain the high standards of quality and service that defined its early days.
Employees and customers feel neglected. When employees feel heard, they take greater ownership of their work and the company’s success, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction. Customers no longer receive the personalized attention that may have drawn them to the company initially. Customer service can become a series of scripted interactions, lacking empathy and genuine problem-solving.
Employees often have unique insights into the day-to-day operations and can offer perspectives that might not be visible at the management level. Employee input can lead to more informed and effective business strategies. Without it, there is decreased flexibility and a slower response to market changes. Innovation suffers because the bureaucracy of big businesses can stifle creativity, which is often the lifeblood of customer satisfaction.
Internal communication breaks down. Silos develop as departments become isolated, leading to a lack of cohesive strategy and understanding of customer needs. Employees become disengaged and feel like cogs in a large machine, causing customer satisfaction to wane.
Management can become overconfident and complacent. Companies may become so entrenched in their ways that they ignore employee and customer feedback. You can’t rest on your laurels. Past success is no guarantee of future performance, especially if a company stops striving for excellence.
Make no mistake, while large companies run a bigger risk of dehumanizing their employees and customers, that problem is by no means limited by the organization’s size. It can be just as disastrous for smaller companies to push employees aside. Leadership needs to recognize the people who actually do the work and acknowledge their contributions.
To prevent these issues, companies of all sizes should focus on keeping the lines of communication open with their employees, thereby demonstrating respect for their expertise and their role in the company. Employees who feel valued are more likely to remain loyal to the company, reducing turnover. When employees are encouraged to give input, it fosters a collaborative environment where teamwork thrives.
That whole practice then spills over to how customers are viewed. Management needs to treat each customer as if they are their only customer, addressing their needs and listening to their concerns. It is crucial to maintain high standards of quality and service and to look at each customer as an individual, not just a statistic.
When all is said and done, we are all in the people business. As Starbucks founder Howard Schultz famously said, “We are not in the coffee business serving people, we are in the people business serving coffee.”
The people you serve include the people you employ as well as your customers. No matter how big your company grows, never forget what made you grow – listening to your employees and customers and satisfying them. It’s important to find the right balance and ensure that growth does not come at the expense of the core values and quality. They are what made the company successful in the first place.
Mackay’s Moral: A company that listens to its employees and customers can turn their whispers into winning strategies.
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
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.
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. See ad on page 3.
TUESDAY, MARCH 4
• Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting at 2 p.m. at CentraCare West Campus Board Room, Long Prairie.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5
• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle. See ad on page 5.
SUNDAY, MARCH 9
• Freeport Lions Breakfast from 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Church Basement, Freeport. See ad on page 3.
FRIDAY, MARCH 14
• St. Joseph Parish Fish Fry from 5-7 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall, Grey Eagle.
SUNDAY, MARCH 23
• BINGO at at 5:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church, Melrose.
SUNDAY, MARCH 30
• Spring Fundraiser Bake Sale, Lunch, Bingo & Raffle starting at 11 a.m. at St. John’s Church Basement-Meire Grove
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. al-
ternating 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.
Weekend Weather
“The Good Old Days” -By
Earlier Times
There are many different stories about “coming to America.” Since many of the stories are now over a century old, they are no longer told and a really large part of our history is not being shared with our new generation. Did they have interesting experiences during the trip to this country? The first stop in America for many of them was New York. After doing the necessary immigrant registration, where did they reside? Did they get on a train and head west? Were they drawn to Minnesota as a result of the untrue advertising that was spread in Europe to make the Europeans believe that life was so much easier and prosperous here? Every family has an interesting story about how our families came here. Sharing those stories would be very interesting.
One of the stories I was happy to hear about, was about a family that came to a Minnesota homestead. Their first farm was in Southern Minnesota, which experienced a cyclone which took all of the buildings. They then moved to another farm and it was also destroyed by a cyclone. I don’t know if there was windstorm insurance available in those early times. I suppose that if these windstorm losses occurred today, it would be called a loss from a tornado.
Another family came to New York, then went to Canada and had 13 kids. Most of this family stayed in Canada, but one son made a
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070
Mon., March 3: Swedish meatballs over noodles, mixed vegetables, pineapple, bread.
Tues., March 4: BBQ ribs, potatoes O’brien, corn, bread.
Wed., March 5: Tilapia, rice pilaf, peaches, peas, bread.
Thurs., March 6: Country steak, whipped potatoes, gravy, broccoli, bread.
Fri., March 7: Tuna noodle casserole, carrots, pudding.
Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
Tom Kuehne
living trapping in Northern Minnesota in the early 1900s. He was a good trapper and got attention from the Indians, who ultimately captured him. They tied him to a tree with a threat that they would “take care” of him the next day. During the following night a female from the tribe cut the restraints on his arms and feet and he escaped to central Minnesota, where he married a lady from France and they had 13 kids. Germany had a tradition of transferring the ownership of the family farm to the oldest son. Since they were not going to get the farm, 6 brothers came to America in the early 1900s. They made their homes in Minnesota and Montana. The three that moved to Minnesota found their careers as a blacksmith, a shoemaker and a farmer. One of the two that went to Montana drowned on a cattle drive river crossing shortly after moving there and the other started a cattle ranch.
These stories by the children and grandchildren were hard for them to remember. I know that many of you can remember stories from years ago that should be told. The experiences from your past would be enjoyable to share. Give me a call. 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
Upcoming Library Event
Sugar Bushing & Seasonal Indigenous Foods: Join Travis Zimmerman, Site Manager of the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post, a historic site of the Minnesota Historical Society, as he discusses foods of the American Indians. His presentation will focus on seasonal foods found in Minnesota and foods that originated in the Americas that became staples for world cuisines. This program was made possible with Arts & Cultural Heritage Funds from Minnesota’s Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment.
Sauk Centre Library: Saturday, March 1 at 10:00 a.m.
Upsala Library: Saturday, March 1 at 1:00 p.m.
From the Desk of Pastor Bruce
I have a penetrating question. Would you say that you are a good person? Maybe the word “good” needs to be defined. To be good would imply that you follow God’s principles, not just better than evil men. You see, God does not grade on the curve. This is how many people think. I am guilty for my sin and you are guilty for your own sin. James 2:10 says “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.” But since Jesus Christ died on behalf of the individual, He also judges the individual, judging your sin alone and not in comparison to someone elses sins.
1 Corinthians 11:1 says, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” Paul is speaking and you might think he is arrogant and full of himself, but listen, Paul simply states that he is following Jesus Christ, and you ought to also. Basically, he is saying,
3 Businesses
I am not God, no! of course not, but I believe and trust in Him. I do not compare to anyone else but Jesus. He says this same sort of thing in Philippians 3:17 “Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.” It was just a few verses before this one that Paul explains that he is not worthy to be an apostle of Jesus because of his past, but now Jesus got ahold of his life. That makes all the difference in the world, and eternity.
I am asking all of you to look at Romans 5:8 and then live like you are forgiven. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Thomas A. “Tom” Kulzer
Thomas A. “Tom” Kulzer, age 62 of Swanville, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota. A Celebration of Life was held Wednesday, February 26 at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose. A private inurnment will be held at a later date.
Thomas Arthur Kulzer was born March 6, 1962 in Melrose, Minnesota to Alcuin and Angie (Olberding) Kulzer. He was united in marriage to Judith “Judi” Pallansch on February 16, 1987 at the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tom worked in construction for J.L. Schwieters for many years and most recently was a truck driver for Manion’s Wholesale Lumber.
Tom was a social butterfly who loved playing pranks and jokes on people. Tom was quite the cook. If you came over to visit, you never left hungry and if you were lucky enough, you would leave with a loaf of his famous homemade bread. Tom loved spending time outdoors, especially when it came to cutting wood, fishing and four wheeling. He loved spending time with his family and friends and working in his wood shop. He adored his grandbabies, including his grandpuppy, Baxter.
Survivors include his loving wife of 38 years, Judi Kulzer of Swanville; children, Jaime Kulzer-Worms of Sartell and Tony (Brooke) Kulzer of Centerville; three grandchildren, Evan Worms, William Kulzer, and Claire Kulzer; step father, Wayne Meyer of Melrose; mother-in-law, Dottie Pallansch of Melrose; brothers and sisters, Arlene Kulzer (Kelly Myers) of Sauk Centre, Dan (Steph) Kulzer of Greenwald, Paul Kulzer of Sauk Centre, Randy Kulzer of Apple Valley, Pete (Carol) Kulzer of Sauk Centre, and Mary Erickson (Jeff) of Apple Valley; brother-in-law, Bob (Claudia) Pallansch of Oak Grove; sisterin-law, Cindi (Joel) Schwieters of Stillwater, and many nieces and nephews.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law, Bob “R.C.” Pallansch; sister-inlaw, Michelle Kulzer; and infant niece, Jackie Lynn Schwieters.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. You are needed. You are loved. You are not alone. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
If you would like to make a charitable donation, Tom’s favorites were St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
Stacy L. Johnson
Stacy Lynn Johnson, age 42, of Upsala went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at the St. Cloud Hospital.
A Celebration of Stacy’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Community Covenant Church in Upsala, MN. Pastor Steve Weihsmann will officiate. Family and friends are welcome to visit one hour before the service. Arrangements are with Benson Funeral Home, St. Cloud, MN.
Stacy was born on September 13, 1982, in Little Falls, MN to Stu and Ingrid Johnson. She lived her short life in the Upsala area and graduated from Upsala High School in 2001. Stacy was known for her love of life, her big hugs, her huge smile, and her love for her family, her friends, and Jesus. And let’s not forget her love of professional wrestling!
Stacy always brought joy to everyone around her.
Stacy is survived by her parents, Stuart and Ingrid Johnson, of Upsala; brothers, Corey Johnson and Daniel (Vonda) Johnson both of Swanville; niece, Shelby Johnson of St. Cloud; grandmother, Eleanor Johnson, of Upsala; special friend, Chris Olson of Rice; great uncle and aunt, Virgil (Lucy) Stenholm, of Isanti; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her great grandparents, Bernard (Mabel) Stenholm, Olaf (Edna) Bergren, Otto (Ethel) Johnson, Lizzie Johnson; grandparents, Ralph (Margaret) Johnson, Virginia “Ginny” Johnson, and Lloyd Johnson; and aunts, Mona Johnson and Beth Johnson.
Paulenia “Pauline” Ann Marie (Schmidt) Hoffman
Paulenia “Pauline” Ann Marie (Schmidt) Hoffman, age 92 years and 20 days, a resident of Grey Eagle, Minnesota, went peacefully to be with the Lord on February 20, 2025.
Paulenia was born January 21, 1933 in Round Prairie Township, Round Prairie, Minnesota to Alfred and Marie (Eggerth) Schmidt. She married Oscar Hoffman and the couple were together for 74 years. They farmed together, raised their family, and both worked at Hart’s Press.
Paulenia is survived by her husband, Oscar Hoffman; son, Don (Mary) Hoffman; and daughter, Orleen Hoffman (Roger Carstens).
Paulenia was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, Harold and Marven Schmidt.
To honor the wishes of our beloved on and the family, a private burial will be held at Lakeview Cemetery, Todd County, Grey Eagle, Minnesota, at a later date.
The family requests no memorials.
Lorraine L. Heinen
Lorraine Lucille Heinen, age 77, of Albany, MN, died Monday, February 24, 2025 at Mother of Mercy Senior Living, Albany, MN. Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Lorraine’s life will be Friday, February 28, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Anthony Catholic Church, St. Anthony, MN. Visitation will be Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 4:00 to 8:009 PM at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, St. Anthony, MN and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Parish prayers will be at the church on Thursday at 4:00 PM followed by the Christian Mothers rosary. Burial will be in St. Anthony’s Catholic Cemetery, St. Anthony, MN. Funeral arrangements were made by Benson Funeral Home, St. Cloud, MN.
Lorraine was born March 3, 1947 in Melrose, MN to Frank H. and Alma M. (VanHoorik) Kunstleben. On October 7, 1967 she was united in marriage to Arnold W. Heinen at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, St. Anna, MN. During her lifetime, Lorraine was employed by Jennie-O and Lentz Optical. She was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in St. Anthony, MN where she was an active member of Christian Mothers.
Survivors include her siblings, Richard (Bernice) Kunstleben of Albany, MN; Robert Kunstleben of Holdingford, MN; John (Lois Thielen) Kunstleben of Grey Eagle, MN; Bernice (Gerald) Hartung of Freeport, MN; Mary Jane (Nick) Zeimetz of Albany, MN; sister-in-law, Geraldine Kunstleben of Avon, MN; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Arnold on June 12, 2016, brothers, Alvin, Alphonse, Ronald and Marcus Kunstleben, an infant sister Elizabeth, and sister-in-law, Darlene Kunstleben.
Karen R. Doege
Karen R. Doege, age 67 of Albany, formerly of Melrose, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 10, 2025 at her home in Albany, Minnesota. A memorial service will be held at 12 p.m. Friday, March 7 at the Harvest Church in Freeport. Inurnment will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose following the lunch.
Visitation will be from 11 to 12 p.m. Friday at the church. In honor of Karen, the family asks you to wear something blue.
Karen Rose Doege was born August 19, 1957 in Melrose, Minnesota to Sylvester and Bernice (Stadtherr) Doege. She was a nursing assistant and med tech at the Pine Villa Care Center in Melrose for many years. She later began working at the VA Hospital in St. Cloud as a nursing assistant and later in the file room for a total of 17 years before she retired.
In her retirement, she enjoyed going to the casino and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandson.
For many years, Karen attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose and in the last few years, she began attending Harvest Church in Freeport.
Survivors include her children, Christine Kleve of Atwater and Joe Baca of Shakopee; seven grandchildren and one great grandson; brothers and sisters, Daniel Doege, Roger (Joan) Doege, Charles (Melissa) Doege, Mary (Edgar) Mallea, Barbara (Curt) Nelson, and Steven (Lily) Doege.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents and infant brother, John Doege.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre. Minnesota Darkhouse & Angling Association Heartland Chapter assisted with taking students from Sacred Heart School in Freeport spearing and angling. Submitted by Ed Atkinson.
Did You Know Your Local Soil and Water Conservation Office Sells Trees?
Todd County Soil and Water Conservation District (Todd SWCD) has a tree sale program, just like other Soil and Water offices across the State. Each year Todd SWCD sells between 16,000 to 20,000 trees. The trees are bareroot trees that are between 18-24 inches tall. Trees that are smaller in size are easier to transplant as they adapt more quickly to new locations. When selecting what type of tree to plant it is important to know your soil type. In some situations, it is recommended to have your soil tested.
Todd SWCD Tree Sale program also includes: One-gallon potted stock, tree tubes, spiral guards and native flower plugs.
The tree sales start in the Fall for Spring pick up. To learn more about the tree program or other Soil and Water programs, please call the office at 320-732-2644.
Todd SWCD have field technicians that can assist in your tree selection for your property and help identify the soil type. In some instances, cost share funds might be available to help offset the cost for a field windbreak or shelterbelt planting. The SWCD field technicians can assist by developing a tree plan for your property.
Pulse on People
Alyssa Young of Grey Eagle was named to the St. Cloud State University College of Science and Engineering Dean’s List for Fall 2024. To qualify for the honor, students must earn a 3.75 or better grade point average.
Sobieski & Swanville Lions Clubs 32nd Annual Fishing Contest. Photos by Lori Young.
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’ve run my own small business for about five years. So far, we’re doing pretty well. At this point, I’d like to find ways for my company to reach out to our community, start becoming more involved and give back a little. Do you have any suggestions for meaningful steps that would show folks how much we care?
-Albert
Dear Albert,
This is a great question! The best leaders understand the concept of leadership involves a lot more than signing paychecks, hiring decisions and taking care of your team and your company. True leaders are also concerned about the health of their communities. They motivate themselves—and others—to act.
If you don’t already consider yourself a leader with the community, I want you to think about this: You have the potential and opportunity to become one. Being a successful businessperson can open doors to becoming a leader in the private sector as well. How do you do that? Think on a more personal level. And
take time to consider the following ideas.
First, try making every contact a caring and friendly relationship moment. In today’s culture of texts and emails, there’s something special about a handwritten note. If you know someone who has a tough job or just needs a reminder that they’re doing great work, let them know. People who compliment and inspire others gain respect and influence.
Also, find a cause you’re passionate about. When an issue arises that’s important to you, write letters to other entrepreneurs and politicians respectfully expressing your thoughts and ideas. Attend city council meetings, and tell your elected representatives why you care. Get to know these folks, and make your voice heard in a thoughtful manner.
Finally, true servant leaders put others first. Is there a ministry or nonprofit whose mission you identify with? If so, jump in, and give it your all. Invest your energy, resources and time, and you’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference. On top of that, make it a family affair. And by this, I mean your family at home and your team at work. Giving back to the community while sharing the experience with those you love and care about can be a bonding and learning experience everyone will remember for a long, long time.
Do you get what I’m saying, Albert? Leadership opportunities don’t happen just at work. They’re all around you. All you have to do is choose a course, engage and you’ll be on your way toward making a huge positive difference in your community and the lives of people who live there.
-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.”
Ask The Motor Medics®
From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Dear Motor Medics,
I have a twopart question with two cars. I have a 2025 Ford Maverick, and a 2025 Tesla Model S. My questions are about the first-time maintenance needed on these cars. The Maverick is a hybrid and I was told to do the first oil change at 10k miles. This came directly from the dealer as this car was brand new. After that it’s also looking like 10k between oil changes which were included in my service plan. I just don’t feel right going that long and they don’t cover anything on the car after 36k so what would they need me to maintain it better. Does it hurt to change it a lot sooner? On the Tesla, is there anything I need to change as far as fluids on a regular basis?
-Dan in Michigan
Dear Dan, We see some cars coming with a break in oil which is intended to go a longer distance to seat the rings and pistons to prevent oil burning but we are still undecided as to the 10k thing or not. We go 5k on our remanufactured units we install at our shop. Either way, after the first change we go to a much earlier change, usually 3mo or 3k miles but with a full synthetic we sometimes go 5k. You need to talk to your local mechanic to come up with a plan. On the Tesla we are not aware of any fluid changes needed right away.
Dear Motor Medics, I want to upgrade my radio and my remote start in my 2021 GMC Yukon. The remove start has a very limited distance for starting
range and the radio does not have enough bass for me. What kind of suggestions do you have without paying for a subscription for the remote start app on my phone.
-Donald in Worthington, Minnesota
Dear Donald,
You got me there. The first thing I was going to suggest was getting a subscription for your phone but if you are like me you don’t want to pay that monthly fee. You can get a longer-range remote start installed at aftermarket car stereo shops. They can safely tap into the factory systems and get you a very long-range unit which you can customize to run for more than the factory set ten minutes too. The units even have a temp reading on the remote in many cases so that you can tell how warm or cool the interior is so you don’t need to run it any longer than needed. As for the bass in the factory stereo system, you have many choices for aftermarket equipment that will easily connect to the factory system. A lot of people add a subwoofer in the cargo area tied to the factory system and that will add as much bass as you want. All you must do is decide what your budget is. The bigger the louder with Bass.
-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.
Local Municipality Minutes
Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com
Grey Eagle City • January 14, 2025
The regular meeting of the Grey Eagle City Council was called to order by Mayor Joseph Arnzen at 7:00 pm on the 14th day of January 2025 in Council Chambers. Council members present were Brad Johnson, Brian Hollenkamp and Roland Ahrendt. Council member, Chris Browen, was absent. Also in attendance were Mike Berscheit and Beth Ramacher and guest: Brian Bye.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the agenda. 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 approve the minutes of the December 10, 2024 Truth in Taxation meeting as written. 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 approve the minutes of the December 10, 2024 meeting. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
Bryan Bye from Widseth was present to discuss the Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Reports required by Rural Development for funding for a water treatment plant (WTP) improvement and well project. The report will look at alternatives for the wells and WTP, a life cycle analysis and whether it makes sense to rehab the existing or do a new build. A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve moving forward with the Water System Study, contingent on approval from the City Attorney. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2025-04: Resolution Authorizing Application for Grant Navigation Support for the City. 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. 2025-04: A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR GRANT NAVIGATION SUPPORT FOR THE CITY
WHEREAS, the League of Minnesota Cities (“LMC”) has created a pilot Grants Navigation Program (“Program”) in which LMC will provide grants up to $5,000 per city to use with industry partners to ease the process of identifying matching funds to city projects and aid in the grant application projects.
WHEREAS, the Program is limited to providing services to help obtain grant funding for one project per city.
WHEREAS, the Program is limited to providing support in obtaining grant funding, and LMC does not provide funds to implement projects.
WHEREAS, the City of Grey Eagle (“City”) wishes to apply to the Program to for support in finding grant funding for Water System Improvements (“Project”).
WHEREAS, the City recognizes that the if approved, any funds received through the Program must be used in a manner consistent with the conditions above as well as all other conditions or limitations of the Program.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREY EAGLE, MINNESOTA AS FOLLOWS:
1. The City names Widseth as its fiscal agent (“Fiscal Agent”) for the purposes of applying to the Program on behalf of the City.
2. The City authorizes the Fiscal Agent to act on its behalf when communicating with LMC in all matters related to the Program application for the Project.
3. If the City is awarded a grant under the Program, it agrees to use the funds to engage with industry partners who will aid in the grant matching and application process consistent with the terms and conditions of the Program.
4. If a state, federal, foundation, or nonprofit grant match is not found, or is applied to but not awarded, the City will seek feedback on why the project was not eligible and report back to the LMC with these findings consistent with the terms and conditions of the Program.
5. If a state, federal, foundation, or nonprofit grant is awarded, a project assessment will be submitted to LMC within six months of the application’s approval and then periodically until after project completion consistent with the terms and conditions of the Program.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 14th day of January 2025.
The People Service reports for October and November 2024 were presented and reviewed.
The following fourth quarter 2024 reports were reviewed: Todd County Sheriff and Utility Transaction History. A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve the 4th Quarter Utility Transaction History Report. 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 Rescue Rig and Certified First Responders to be on site at Trace Lake for the following: Central MN Pond Racing on January 18, 2025 and the Race on Trace on February 15, 2025. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
The council would like the old table and
MILLWOOD TOWNSHIP NOTICE
Notice is hereby given: The Millwood Township Annual Meeting will be held on Monday, March 11, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. pm at the City of St. Rosa Park.
Kallista Sprenger, Millwood Township Clerk
NOTICE is hereby given that a public accuracy test of the election equipment to be used at the March 11, 2025 Township Election for Stearns County, will be held Saturday, March 8th at 9:30 AM. The test will be conducted at the Town Hall, 41248 County Road 13, Melrose, MN.
Cindy Willman, Melrose Township Clerk • 612-280-0595
BURNHAMVILLE TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS
Notice is hereby given to qualified voters of Burnhamville Township, County of Todd, and State of Minnesota, that the Election of Officers and Annual Town Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at the Burtrum Community Center. The election hours will be from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. Offices to be voted on include:
• One supervisor seat B for a three-year term and
• One treasurer for a two-year term.
The Annual Meeting will begin at 8:20 p.m. to conduct all necessary business. The Board of Canvas will be held after the meeting.
In case of inclement weather, the election and meeting will be held March 18, 2025, same time and place.
Shirley Hulinsky, Clerk
chairs from the City Hall listed for bids.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the City does not waive the statutory tort limits for liability coverage. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the pond spraying quote from Team Lab for 2025. 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 move the regular scheduled council meeting on November 11, 2025 to Wednesday, November 12, 2025 (due to Veterans Day). A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2025-01: Resolution Accepting $2000 from Swanville Dollars for Scholars for the Fire Department. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-01: A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING $2000 DONATION FROM SWANVILLE DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS FOR THE GREY EAGLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
WHEREAS, money has been donated by Swanville Dollars for Scholars; 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 Swanville Dollars for Scholars 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 14th day of January 2025.
A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to approve Resolution 2025-02: Accepting $2000 from Sourcewell for Boost Funds – Public Safety FY 2024-2025. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-02: A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING $2000.00 FROM SOURCEWELL FOR BOOST FUNDS – PUBLIC SAFETY FY 2024-2025
WHEREAS, money has been received from
Sourcewell; 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 funds from Sourcewell for Boost Funds – Public Safety for the fiscal year 2024-2025.
2. That the City Clerk is authorized and directed to make the appropriate revenue and expenditure budget adjustments as needed to reflect this funding and its intended use.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 14th day of January 2025.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2025-03: Accepting $2020 from Sourcewell for Consultant Reimbursement FY 2024-2025. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-03: A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING $2020.00 FROM SOURCEWELL FOR CONSULTANT REIMBURSEMENT FY 2024-2025
WHEREAS, money has been received from Sourcewell; 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 funds from Sourcewell for Consultant Reimbursement for the fiscal year 2024-2025.
2. That the City Clerk is authorized and directed to make the appropriate revenue and expenditure budget adjustments as needed to reflect this funding and its intended use.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 14th day of January 2025.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2025-05: Resolution Adopting 2025 Appointments & Designations. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-05: RESOLUTION ADOPTING 2025 APPOINTMENTS & DESIGNATIONS
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council Members can only act collectively as one unit. Streets, Parks, Utilities, City Hall, Health & Welfare, Building Permits, Library and Community Builders will be the responsibility of the entire Council. The other official designations are as follows:
Minutes continued to pg 8
ELMDALE TOWNSHIP NOTICE
Annual Town Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 7:00 PM, at the Elmdale Township Hall. In case of inclement weather, the meeting will be postponed until the third Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at 7:00 PM.
The Regular Monthly Meeting will take place on Monday, March 10, 2025 at 7:30 PM.
Please note the Regular Monthly Meeting is being moved due to the Annual Meeting.
Kim Harren, Clerk
MELROSE TOWNSHIP
NOTICE OF ELECTION AND ANNUAL MEETING
Notice is hereby given to qualified voters that the Annual Township Election and Meeting will be held at the Town Hall, 41248 County Road 13, Melrose, MN on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. The election polls will be open from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for the purpose of electing: • One Supervisor, seat 1, for the term of 3 years
The Annual Meeting will begin at 8:15 p.m. after the polls close.
The Board of Canvass will convene following the Annual Meeting to certify the official election results.
In the event of inclement weather, the election and Annual Meeting will be held on March 18, 2025, at the above time and location.
The Town Hall will be open on Saturday, March 8, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for absentee voting.
Cindy Willman, Melrose Township Clerk • 612-280-0595
GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING
MARCH 11, 2025 • 8:00 PM
Notice is hereby given to the residents of Grey Eagle Township, County of Todd, State of Minnesota that the Annual Town Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
In case of inclement weather, the meeting may be postponed until the third Tuesday of March, March 18, 2025 and if inclement weather also postpones the third Tuesday of March the Board will set a date within 30 days following the third Tuesday of March.
The Annual Meeting will commence at 8:00 PM to conduct all necessary business prescribed by law.
The Annual Meeting will be held at the following location: Grey
State Street Grey Eagle, MN 56336.
Christine Gagne, Grey Eagle Township Clerk, February 11th, 2025
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.
WANTED: Cub Cadet push lawnmower. Call 320-632-3336.
WANTED: Family looking for dairy farm. Call 320-360-6589.
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
FOR SALE: Kerosene heater 19,500 BTU Comfort Glo. Call 320-260-4551.
FOR SALE: Oak firewood dried cut and split $175 a cord. Call 320-632-3336.
FOR SALE: 1949 “B” John Deere with 3 point. Call 320-352-6976.
A Cough Funny
Doctor: Are you still taking the cough medicine I gave you?
Patient: No, I tasted it and decided I’d rather have the cough.
FOR SALE BY SEALED BID
The City of Grey Eagle will be selling, by sealed bid, the following: 10’ Boat Shaped Table (dark brown, one-piece top) with 6 Chairs
Table & chairs can be seen at the Grey Eagle City Shop. Call City Hall at 320-285-2464 or Joe Arnzen at 320-815-9573 for info. Sealed bids will be accepted through Monday, March 10, 2025. Send sealed bids to: City of Grey Eagle
ATTN: Table & Chairs PO Box 116 Grey Eagle MN 56336
Table with chairs will be sold to the highest bidder. The City of Grey Eagle has the right to accept or reject any and all bids. Bids received by council members or employees of the City of Grey Eagle will be rejected.
Sobieski & Swanville Lions Club’s 2025 Fishing Contest Raffle Winners
1. $2500.00 Cash, Sobieski and Swanville Lions Beth Benoit
2. Blackstone Gas Griddle w/Air Fryer – Nilson’s HDWE & Rent It Ctr RV, Koetter Tire & Auto & Swanville Insurance Mike Maselter
3. $1000.00 – Sobieski & Swanville Lions Joe Pachen
4. Ion 8” Ice Auger – Fleet Supply Long Prairie ......................................................................... Jeri Ahrens
5. $250.00 Cash, Greater Minnesota Gas Company Swanville Jamie Lipke
6. $250.00 Cash, Greg & Dianne Peters Joe Tynio
7. $250.00 Cash, Big Stone Excavating and Septic Katie Golombiecki
8. $250 cash: BMF Construction & Concrete Brian Prokott
9. $200.00 Shady’s Golden Eagle Butch Thieschafer
10. $200 cash: Lucky’s Saloon .............. .Barrett Richardson
11. $200 cash: Polish Palace ................................ Cary Gorka
12. $200 cash: Swanville VFW Darren Lang
13. $200 cash: Randall State Bank Jim Allen
14. $200 cash: Missota Mixers Brielle Miller
15. $200 cash: Badger Creek Farm Daryll Welinski
16. $200 cash: Marshik Insurance Agency Fred Tabatt
17. $150 Cash: Nelson Insurance Agency ........................ Kevin Pederson 18. Metal Spear: Opatz Metals & Roloffs Jake Merten
19. $100 cash: Magnifi Financial, Grey Eagle LeeAnne King
20. $100 cash: Magnifi Financial, Grey Eagle Neil Przybilla
21. $100 cash: First State Bank of Swanville Richard Wimmer
22. $100 cash: Big Johnson’s Market ......... Anthony Sobiech
23. $100 cash: Maciej Construction Gerald Roerick
24. $100 cash: Riverside Meats Willa Fuechtmann
25. $100 cash: Swanville Redi-Mix
Minutes continued from pg 7
Acting Mayor: Brad Johnson
Official Auditor: Brian Koehn, CPA
Official City Attorney – Civil: Quinlivan & Hughes, Joe Krueger
Official City Attorney – Criminal: Todd County Attorney
Official Depositories: Magnifi Financial (Grey Eagle Office)
Official Newspaper: Long Prairie Leader Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 14th day of January 2025.
A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to approve Resolution 2025-06: Resolution Adopting Policy to Allow Payments Before Council Authorization. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-06: RESOLUTION ADOPTING POLICY TO ALLOW PAYMENTS BEFORE COUNCIL AUTHORIZATION
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Grey Eagle is required to review expenditures before payments are made, and WHEREAS, business and contractor billing cycles are not always in step with the City payment schedule, and
WHEREAS, some businesses and contractors demand payment upon job completion, and WHEREAS, some businesses and contractors include finance charges for bills not paid within 10, 15, 20 or 30 days, and WHEREAS, it is in the City’s best interest to pay just debts in a timely manner.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Grey Eagle authorizes the City Clerk/Treasurer to make payment of regular payroll expenditures, regular cyclical payments such as, but not exclusively, and sales & use tax, payments to Minnesota Power without prior approval by the City Council.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 14th day of January 2025.
A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve Resolution 2025-07: Resolution Allowing Wire/Automated Bank Payments. 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. 2025-07: RESOLUTION ALLOWING WIRE/AUTOMATED BANK PAYMENTS
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Grey Eagle, County of Todd, State of Minnesota, acknowledges the need for wire and automated bank payments for such things as: payroll withholdings, sales tax, Rural Development Bond payments and other required payments.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council shall allow the Clerk/Treasurer to make such payments by wire/automation instead of paper checks. These payments will be approved at the appropriate council meeting.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 14th day of January 2025.
Discussion was held on electric and Wi-Fi for the new digital sign by the city parking lot. More to follow at the February meeting.
The Minnesota Health Department did an on-site inspection on December 18, 2024. A copy of the sanitary survey report summarizing the inspection of the Grey Eagle Public Water System was presented to the council.
A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve payment of Claims #3333-3363 (excluding Claim #3360 for $354.52), totaling $69,625.47 and include additional payments of the following: RHL Inc $7710.00, MN Power $2461.22 and Connect Interiors $2323.14. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
The Council requested a Special Meeting for January 21, 2025 at 7:00 pm for a maintenance review.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to adjourn the meeting at 7:48 pm. A second was made by Brad Johnson 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, February 11, 2025 in Council Chambers.
Beth Ramacher, Clerk/Treasurer
