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It’s hard to beat someone who never gives up -By Harvey Mackay
Tim decided to take up jogging to improve his health. He was determined to run a marathon, even though he had never run more than a mile in his life.
On his first day of training, Tim donned his new running gear and set off with enthusiasm.
However, after just a few blocks, he was already out of breath and ready to quit. But Tim was extremely persistent. He thought, “If I can’t run, I’ll walk.”
So, Tim kept at it, day after day. He jogged and walked through his training sessions. His neighbors would often see him out and about, huffing and puffing, and they’d cheer him on with shouts of encouragement.
Finally, the day of the marathon arrived. As Tim lined up with the other runners, he felt a mix of excitement and dread. But he was determined to finish, no matter what. And finish he did – albeit several hours after the winner crossed the line.
I know exactly what Tim was feeling, having completed 10 marathons in my lifetime and several half-marathons. Perseverance might not make you the fastest, but it will get you to the finish line with a story worth telling!
U.S. President Calvin Coolidge, never a person to waste words, said there was one main ingredient needed in our lives to ensure success. Perseverance.
In business, prospects may seem darkest when really, they are about to turn. A little more perseverance, a little more effort and
SUN.-THURS., JULY 6-10
what seemed a hopeless failure may turn into a glorious success. There is no failure except in no longer trying.
Perseverance is an incredibly important skill set both professionally and personally. It separates the winners from the losers. Those who persevere understand that luck is something only failures believe in. Perseverance is stamina, not intensity. It is continuous work over a long period of time. It serves as the backbone for achieving long-term goals and overcoming the inevitable obstacles that life throws our way.
Perseverance is crucial for career growth. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, starting a new business or tackling a challenging project, the ability to persist in the face of setbacks can set you apart from others.
In the workplace, problems and challenges are commonplace. Perseverance allows you to approach these issues with a mindset geared towards finding solutions rather than being deterred.
Many successful innovations result from persistent efforts to improve or create something new. Perseverance fuels the drive to keep experimenting until you find the right solution.
Whether it’s learning a new skill, getting fit or pursuing a personal passion, perseverance helps you stay committed to your goals despite the challenges you might encounter.
Life is full of ups and downs. Perseverance helps build resilience, enabling you to bounce back from failures and continue moving forward.
The journey of personal development often involves stepping out of your comfort zone. Perseverance helps you continue to grow and evolve, even when the path is difficult.
As I often say, “Those who endure, conquer.” Perseverance enables you to push
through adversity, much like the stories of Michelangelo painting the Sistine Chapel or NASA’s repeated attempts to reach space.
Perseverance can help you build a legacy of achievements, muscling through when faced with numerous challenges on the path to success.
Perseverance is the fuel that powers the engine of success, both professionally and personally. Keep pushing forward, and you’ll find that the journey is just as rewarding as the destination.
One day two frogs were hopping in and out of a watering hole and accidentally hopped in an extremely deep hole. They tried to leap out, but had no success, so they began to yell and croak until other frogs heard them and came to help. The other frogs said the hole was too deep for them to help, but both frogs kept leaping up the sides of the hole. They leaped for hours and one of the frogs just gave up and died. The other frog in the hole kept leaping, even though the other frogs kept yelling at him to stop and give up.
Finally, the frog leaped so high that he was able to leap to the top of the hole and used his back legs to push himself up out of the hole. The frog that got out of the hole thanked the other frogs for egging him on. The other frogs didn’t know that this frog was actually deaf.
Mackay’s Moral: Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another.
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
• Vacation Bible School from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Swanville Bible Church.
TUESDAY, JULY 8
• Melrose Community Blood Drive from 12:30-6:30 p.m. at the American Legion, Melrose.
THURS.-SUN., JULY 10-14
• Melrose Stages Presents ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ at the Marit Elliott Performing Arts Center, Melrose. July 10-12, 14 at 7:30 p.m. July 13 at 2 p.m.
SUNDAY, JULY 14
• Church of St. Benedit Parish Festival, Avon. 10 a.m. Outdoor Polka Mass. See ad on page 5.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16
• Grey Eagle Senior Citizens Meeting at 4:30 p.m. Potluck & Bingo to follow at the Grey Eagle Senior Center.
SATURDAY, JULY 19
• Grey Eagle United Methodist Church Annual BBQ Luncheon from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Bake Sale from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Grey Eagle/Burtrum Lions Community Appreciation from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Fire Hall, Grey Eagle.
SUNDAY, JULY 20
• Sacred Parish Festival, Freeport. Outdoor Mass 9 a.m. Parade 10:30 a.m.
• Grey Eagle/Burtrum Lions Tractor Pull starting at 11 a.m. at the Lions Park, Grey Eagle.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6
• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apart-
ments, Grey Eagle.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
• 37th Annual Grey Eagle Fire Dept. Corn on the Cob & Pork Feed from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Grey Eagle Fire Hall. AL-ANON • AVON
• Meets every Monday from 5-6 p.m. at the Avon City Hall.
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
Hard Times
My good friend, Bud, told me about his life during the depression. Many of the specific dates and the exact order of events are not remembered, but the events are still remarkable.
Bud’s parents moved from Racine, Wisconsin in 1923 to 40 acres of woods in Todd County near Highway 27. The next years found them clearing land and building a house and a barn. They had a small mortgage, which prior to the 1929 market crash, would have been paid off by selling two cows. However the mortgage still existed in the early 1930’s and the bank kicked them off of the farm. They had a Maxwell vehicle, which they loaded with their kitchen stove, a few clothes and 4 kids and left the farm.
Driving down the trail, they saw a vacant house and moved in. They were again evicted in a month and were again back on the trail, which happened two more times. They then moved into a house and when they were discovered, the owner said they could stay there if Bud’s dad, George, helped on the owner’s farm for $.50 per day and did some repairs to the property they were living in. This arrangement continued for a year, when Bud’s dad heard of a 34 acre property just down the road. The price of the property including a house was $1300.00. George had $.10 in his pocket when he walked to Sauk Centre (15 miles) to make a deal on the property. He returned the next evening with the $.10 still in his pocket. They made payment with a pig each year. They then were able to obtain a team of horses and a walking plow. They also had a saxophone, which they traded for a cow with three “milk faucets.” They obtained some pigs and now were really farming.
Bud started school at age 9, because he was needed to work at home and were only 2 miles from school, made it an easy walk to school. My grandparents sent their kids to the same school. It had one room and there were from 14 to 21 kids in the school. The school is now the Hub Supper Club.
The family had an Airedale Dog, who killed a mink and the hide from the mink sold for $20.00, so the family was able to obtain about a months supply of groceries. They roasted barley and ground it for coffee, which
was their primary drink.
The need for cash money was always a concern for Bud’s dad. So that he could supplement the family’s income, he began to manufacture some moonshine. His recipe was very good and to improve the quality, he aged it in charred wooden barrels for a period of time. These barrels were placed in the horse manure pile, which kept them at the correct temperature for aging. The taste and quality made his moonshine a product which sold for more than other moonshine.
Those who drove cars in the winter during the 1930’s drained the radiator after bringing the vehicle home. This was to avoid having the water in the radiator freeze and break either the radiator or the engine. Water was filled in the radiator each time the car was used. There was no alcohol or anti-freeze used, because it cost too much. When, during the trip, the car was stopped for a short time, a blanket was used to cover the radiator to keep the water warm. Sometimes the blanket covered more than the radiator.
On one trip to Long Prairie, George hid a few bottles of Moonshine under the blanket so that when a customer requested a bottle, he would lift the hood as to check the temperature of the radiator and remove the requested bottle. A sheriff saw what was happening and he was arrested. He had to spend 30 days in jail. He was required to paint and varnish some of the jail walls during the day and usually played cards in the evening. It was enjoyable for him because he was warm and well fed. It was also great for his family because while he was incarcerated, the county had to feed his family. Bud said it was like Christmas, when a car came to the farm with the trunk and back seat filled with groceries, they were able to eat better than ever.
These are a few of the remembrances of Bud, who later enlisted in the Army and served with honor during the invasion of Europe. 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
What would you say our world needs? If you look around or at the news, what do you see? Let me tell you what I have been noticing. Lots of selfishness and hatred and anger in our world right now. People blaming people, or nations, against nations and really no one giving in.
On the upside, I have heard about groups of people having revivals, all around the world. As a pastor and as a believer in Jesus Christ, that makes sense to me. In a world with so much corruption and hate, we need a revival. 1 John 3:16-18 says “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? 18Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
The description of the way Jesus loved us is unprecedented! Jesus was a true servant and loved the world so much He laid down His life for us. Here it is… pay attention now! Jesus showed us how to love and then He said, now you do the same thing!
Can you imagine what would happen in the Middle East, or the conflict dealing with our Southern border, or tariffs, or the fight over abortion, or homosexuality, or transexual, or you name it? Our world would turn around if we loved others in the same way Jesus loved us.
-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Todays Thought
Gardens
THURSDAY: 5-9 PM
Genevieve “Jennie” Hiltner
Our beloved mother, sister and friend Jennie Hiltner, 99, passed away on June 30, 2025 with family at her side and the rising morning Sun glistening in the window. She lived in faith, loved family and shared a feast of life.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 3 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.
Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday at the church. Christian Women and Goldenaires Senior Citizens will pray a rosary at 5 p.m. Wednesday evening.
Genevieve A. Hiltner was born February 4, 1926 in Freeport, Minnesota to Joseph and Hilda (Borgerding) Overman.
Jennie lived a remarkable life born in the house where she raised twelve children. Jennie, a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Parish in Freeport, was active in her faith and community, sang in choir, shared her stories in Marriage Encounters and led her family in prayer.
Jennie married Smoky in 1946 and they raised their family of eight boys and four girls. She carefully managed the family household budget, guiding the family in supporting each other. She supported Smoky with love and family until his untimely death in 1994. Jennie proudly and with great passion led her immediate family, 20 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren and enjoyed their many accomplishments.
Smoky and the boys built houses in the community, Jennie filled hers with love and her hands. Jennie proudly baked thousands of loaves of bread and made hundreds of quilts. Every family meal included dessert and it was “your choice” for birthdays. Jennie was a master at hosting planned and unplanned gatherings with her siblings, friends and neighbors. Jennie loved playing Bridge and 500 with friends and was fiercely competitive but gracious. She prayed deeply as she watched her many friends and family pass.
Jennie touched the lives of many. She made personal connections with everyone she met. A kind word, a smile, a conversation, she shared life’s goodness and gifts. She shared in our feast of life and we are blessed and thankful for Jennie.
Jennie was preceded in death by her spouse, Smoky and sons Greg, Michael, and Karl, parents, and her siblings Joseph Overman, Ray Overman, James Overman, Mary Harren, Bernice Muske, Fred Overman, Doreen Robillard and Celine Overman.
Jennie is survived by her children; Dave and Joann Hiltner, Ann and Bill Hiltner-Skodje, Lois and Ken Scherer, Jim and Tina Hiltner, Celeste and Jim Johnson, Eric Hiltner, Brian and Jan Hiltner, Jean and Morgan Enowmbitang and Jason Hiltner, their children, spouses and loved ones.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Freeport.
Kenneth Gene Fischer
Kenneth Gene Fischer, known to many as “Fish” or “Fishy,” passed away on June 16, 2025, at the age of 66, as a result of injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident involving a deer. Born on February 26, 1959, in Sauk Centre, Minnesota, to Edmund and Dolores (Schunk) Fischer, Kenny lived a life marked by unyielding determination, strong hands, and a heart always ready to serve.
Kenny graduated from Albany High School and built a strong work ethic constructing silos with Norling Silos, followed by a long career at Kraft Foods in Albany. He retired—fittingly—on his birthday in 2014.
On October 27, 2001, Kenny married the love of his life, Penny Martin of Foley, MN. Their life together was full of laughter, companionship, and the loyal presence of their beloved dog, Parker.
Kenny was a devoted Harley rider. After a life-changing accident in 1980, he didn’t give up—instead, he adapted a 1973 HarleyDavidson Shovelhead into a custom trike and hit the road again, chrome gleaming, paint vibrant, and ape hangers held high. The bike wasn’t just transportation—it was his roar, his resilience, and his soul. With the iconic “K Fish” plate and tattoos as colorful as his personality, he was a proud biker with a heart of gold.
A master craftsman and welder, Kenny could fix just about anything—from farm equipment to birdhouses. Always immersed in projects, he was quick to lend a hand to anyone in need. Whether welding a tractor part, repairing garden tools, or clearing snow from a neighbor’s driveway, Kenny had a gift for turning every challenge into an opportunity to help.
His love for nature ran deep—he hunted and fished with friends and family, especially enjoying bowhunting trips with his nephews in South Dakota and watching wildlife on his property. He encouraged youth to hunt, finding joy in seeing others appreciate and cherish the outdoors.
Kenny found joy in life’s simple pleasures: feeding songbirds, watching Minnesota Vikings games (with plenty of play-by-play commentary), playing cribbage, and always being ready for happy hour. He was a man of grit, generosity, and fierce loyalty.
He lived fully, loved deeply, and leaves behind a legacy of strength, laughter, and a hand always extended.
Kenny is survived by his loving wife, Penny, and their dog, Parker, along with siblings Linda Barker Morehouse (Scott) of St. Joseph, Jane (Ken) Wuertz of Otsego, Don (Pam) Fischer of Albany, Marilyn (Dan) Bueckers of Freeport, Tom (Brenda) Fischer of Albany, Tim (Elaine) Fischer of Sartell, and Gary (Tammy) Fischer of Albany; as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edmund and Dolores Fischer.
A memorial celebration of Kenny’s life was held Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany. Following the service, a brief bike ride in Kenny’s honor departed from the church and ending at Kenny and Penny’s home, where he would find his final resting place.
Andrew “Andy” Seifert
Andrew
“Andy” Seifert, born on September 3, 1977 passed away June 26, 2025.
Andy was preceded in death by his parents John Seifert and Linda Wershing, also by his dear wife, Michele Seifert. He will be missed by his sister, Nicole and her family, along with his many friends.
Andy spent
the majority of his adult life cooking in local restaurants. He was good at what he did and folks followed wherever he served up delicious eats.
He did not know the meaning of being a fairweather fan. He was a Minnesota pro sports fan through and through. Some of his favorite memories were attending games with his wife Michele and other close friends and family.
For Andy, man’s best friend equaled true love. He cared for his pets, especially his dogs with all his heart.
Andy was happiest outdoors, walking through the woods, tending to his yard and garden, taking a dip in local lakes, or sitting around a fire. Nature brought him peace.
Playing board games with old friends or family was another favorite pastime. He also found great joy in a good dodgeball game with neighborhood kids. He was truly a kid at heart.
There will not be any services held for Andy.
Remember him and celebrate him as you feel fit. Please feel free to plant a tree in his honor or donate or adopt at a local pet shelter.
Karlyann M. Boecker
Karlyann M. Boecker, age 21 of Greenwald, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 29, 2025 at her home in Albany, Minnesota. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, July 7 at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Greenwald with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.
Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Monday at the church in Greenwald.
Karlyann Marie Boecker was born December 22, 2003 in Melrose, Minnesota to Daniel and Jayme (Wold) Boecker. She attended St. John’s/St. Andrew’s Elementary School and then graduated from Melrose High School in 2022. During her high school years, she was involved in musicals and FFA. She recently became an FFA Alumni Officer. Karlyann continued her education at Alexandria Technical College as a lab technician. She was currently working at CentraCare as a phlebotomist. When she wasn’t working, she enjoyed time at Lake Amelia in Villard with her family. She was looking forward to the 4th of July weekend.
Karlyann’s heart journey started at the age of 15 days old when she had her first surgery. She has had many heart surgeries due to a rare heart defect. Throughout her life, she attended Camp Odayin in Cross Lake where she made many friends. Karlyann was a heart warrior and will continue to be one even though she is gone as she donated her heart to research to help others in need.
Survivors include her parents, Dan and Jayme Boecker of Greenwald; sister, Maddysen (Zachary) Cave of Fargo; boyfriend, Wyatt Ritter of Melrose; grandparents, Don (Paulina) Wold of Belgrade, Carol (Ronald) Winter of Melrose, and Allen (Val) Boecker of Sauk Centre; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Karlyann was preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Ray (Mary Ann) Barten, Norbert (Elizabeth) Boecker, Donna Wold, Miles (Marcella) Wold, and Raymond (Fay) Sandvig.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
Mary Ann O.
Butkowski, age 98 of Melrose, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Cura Care Center in Melrose, Minnesota. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 3 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. The Mass will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the church’s YouTube channel: Church of St. Mary Melrose. Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday at the church in Melrose.
Mary Ann Olivia Butkowski was born December 11, 1926 in Millwood Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to Henry and Loretta (Toenyan) Middendorf. She was united in marriage to Jerome Butkowski on May 8, 1945 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Melrose. She was a homemaker until 1964 and then began working at Jennie-O Foods in Melrose until 1992. In her retirement, she enjoyed helping Jerome on their hobby farm, raising chickens and steers. She did endless gardening and canning. After Jerome passed away, Mary Ann moved into town. She enjoyed going on occasional casino trips, going out to eat with her sisters, and celebrating birthdays with her siblings. Mary Ann was quite the baker. She was known as “Grandma Cookie” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose, Christian Mothers, and a 30year member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 101.
Survivors include her children, Harvey Butkowski of Melrose, Ron (Terry) Butkowski of Melrose, Shirley (Kevin) Dahle of Apple Valley, Jerry (Janet) Butkowski of Freeport, Lisa (Allan) Wiechmann of Melrose, Lori (Ron) Leach of Sauk Centre; 16 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren on the way; sisters and brothers, Lornie Middendorf of New Munich, Kathy (Kenny) Thomas of Melrose, Harriet Froelich of Melrose, and David (Jan) Middendorf of Grey Eagle; and sisters-in-law, Dorothy Middendorf of Melrose and Sonja Middendorf of Sauk Centre.
Mary Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Jerome Butkowski on September 23, 2004; parents; daughter-in-law, Joanne Butkowski; brothers and sisters, Walter, Conrad, Wilfred, Edward, Arlene Arnzen, and Viola Meyer. Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.
Brian’s Painting
Interiors, Exteriors, Staining, Varnishing Brian Middendorf
320-293-9939 40 Years Experience
Elizabeth Ann Haberman
Elizabeth Ann “Liz” Haberman, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully just before 11:00 p.m. on June 27, 2025, with her husband at her side. She spent the last week of her life surrounded by her children, grandchildren, sister, brother-in-law, and close friends.
Liz was born on March 3, 1938, in Holdingford, Minnesota, to Ambrose and Tillie Ebnet. She graduated at the top of her class from Holdingford High School and attended business school in St. Cloud before moving to Minneapolis, where she was soon followed by the love of her life, Roderick “Rick” Haberman. They were married on May 28, 1957, and recently celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary.
Liz and Rick’s life together was one of adventure, love, and enduring partnership. They met at the Colosseum in St. Cloud, where they danced—and shared their first kiss. Together, they raised seven children: Mark (deceased), Barb (Steve), Mike (Kay), Di, Larry (deceased), Keith (Virginia), and John (Lynne). Liz was a proud grandmother to many, including Steven (Gus), Natalie, Matt, Derek, Tim, Alex, Sarah, Joe, Emmett, Isabel, and Sam (step-grandchild), and had numerous great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy.
Liz lived a life rich with purpose and spirit. She was an at-home mother for over two decades, fully present in the lives of her children. Later, she returned to work, passionately teaching atrisk youth at Coon Rapids Junior High and Anoka Senior High. Liz’s heart for service extended to her faith life—she was a dedicated member of St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Anoka, where she sang in the choir, as well as the Newman Center in St. Cloud.
Her love for music and singing was a lifelong passion. Liz first sang in the St. Stephen’s Catholic Church choir, then the St. Tim’s Catholic Church choir, followed by The Woodbury Chorus Orchestra—with which she toured Europe performing in Austria and Germany. Later in life, she sang at the Newman Center in St. Cloud as well as with the Minnesota Center Chorale (MCC). She played piano beautifully and once taught lessons to local children. Her voice and laughter were ever-present gifts to those around her.
Liz’s adventurous spirit defined her life. She backpacked in the mountains of Wyoming,
Montana, and California; paddled through the Boundary Waters; camped in every season (including snow-filled Minnesota winters); and sailed with Rick on Lake Superior and through the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and the Sea of Cortez. She and Rick bicycled through the countryside of Ireland with their daughter Di, and later took a memorable road trip through both Scotland and Ireland with their daughter Barb and son-in-law Steve. She thrived in nature, in movement, in connection—and always with Rick by her side.
Deeply connected to the natural world, Liz was a lifelong advocate for the environment. She respected the earth and taught those around her to care for it as well. Her environmental consciousness was rooted in both her experiences outdoors and her deep appreciation for Native American values and culture, which she identified with and admired. She donated time and money to environmental causes, was an active member of the Sierra Club, and lived a low-impact life. Liz and Rick, with the help of their children and many friends, built a fieldstone house on 20 acres of property outside Holdingford, Minnesota, where Liz lived with Rick for the last several decades.
Liz also had a lifelong love of Minnesota sports—especially the Twins and the Vikings. She enjoyed watching games, keeping up with players and seasons, and talking sports with friends and family. For her, it was simply fun: a source of entertainment, energy, and good conversation that added color and joy to everyday life.
She is survived by her loving husband Rick, her children and their spouses, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her sister Colleen (Doug), and her sister-in-law Sharon. She was preceded in death by her sons Mark and Larry; her parents Ambrose and Tillie Ebnet; cousin Ronnie Ebnet (Crystal), who was like a brother to her; and Rick’s parents.
Those who knew Liz will remember her as strong, smart, and passionate—athletic and independent, joyful and endlessly curious. Her presence filled a room, her laugh lit up hearts, and her deep love for her family was the center of her world. She made each person she encountered feel seen and cherished.
Liz’s funeral mass will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Our Light Parish, 11700 293rd Avenue NW, Princeton, Minnesota. Lunch will follow the service.
A Celebration of Liz’s Life will take place on Saturday, July 5, from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the family land, 43894 115th Avenue, Holdingford, Minnesota, with live music, food, and a bonfire. In Liz’s honor, all are invited to sing, laugh, share memories, and celebrate a life well-lived and deeply loved. May her love for nature, her joy for life, and her boundless spirit continue to inspire all who knew her.
Swanville Mid-Summer Carnival. 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, Our daughter is a student, and she has $10,000 in student loan debt. She works part-time, and has a couple of scholarships, but she has borrowed a little along the way to bridge gaps. Her uncle recently sold his business, and he told us he would like to give her a gift of $10,000. We’ve talked to her about this, and we’d like to guide her in the smartest possible direction. Should she begin planning for the future, and use this gift to start investing, or should she use it to pay off her student loans?
-Gilbert
Dear Gilbert,
I really appreciate you two trying to help your daughter do the very best thing with her finances and her future. Her uncle sounds like a pretty generous guy. So, let’s take a minute and give this situation a good look.
We’ll start by pretending she doesn’t have any student loan debt. In a case like that, would it be wise for her to borrow money on a student loan in order to invest? Of course not. It’s a dumb question, but I want to get you thinking. If you don’t pay off the
loans, and invest it instead, it’s just like you borrowed money to invest. See what I mean? That would be a pretty bad plan.
In my opinion, your daughter needs to get her student loan mess cleaned up as soon as possible. And this gift from her uncle represents the perfect opportunity to do just that. Listen to me, Gilbert. The last thing in the world your daughter needs is big pile of debt waiting on her when she gets out of school. I want her to start investing at some point down the road, but she’s just not in a good position to be an investor right now. She needs to pay off all those student loans. I’m talking about wiping out all that debt the minute she gets this wonderful gift in her hands.
And the second after she pays off those student loans, she should get to work on saving a pile of money, so she can complete her studies without racking up any more debt!
-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.”
Crash: June 20, 2025: At approximately 6:36 p.m., the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications Center received a call of a single vehicle crash at County Road 157 and 248th Avenue, west of the City of Albany. Upon arrival on the scene deputies determined a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado was traveling eastbound on County Road 157 approaching 248th Avenue when it hydroplaned and the driver lost control of the vehicle. The truck then traveled into the north ditch and rolled. The driver, identified as Diego Beltran Sanchez, 21, of Long Prairie, had minor injuries and his passenger, Oscar Enrique Ramerez Mendez, 20, of Long Prairie had a face laceration and an arm injury. Both were evaluated by Albany Fire and Rescue and transported to the Melrose Hospital. The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by the Albany Police Department and Melrose Ambulance.
Olson (owner)
Ask The Motor Medics®
From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Dear Motor Medics,
I’m looking at several cars in the two year old range with around 10k
miles and after deciding on all the features that I like about each one I think I have come down to two of them and they are both the same model but one has a 4 cylinder engine and the other a six. Both vehicles have automatic transmissions and have very similar features and I would like the best possible fuel mileage so I’m leaning heavily towards the 4 cylinder but I’m not sure if that’s the right choice. Do 4 cylinder model cars always get better mileage than a six cylinder?
-Scott in Larchwood, Iowa Dear Scott, You are correct in not assuming that a 4 cylinder car always gets better fuel mileage because they don’t. Often a 4 cylinder car is either too heavy to efficiently pull the load of the car and it lugs trying to move it which lowers the economy, or the car is geared lower than the six so that it can make up for lost power which also cuts down fuel mileage. We suggest that you look at consumer reports and look online for real world fuel mileage reports from folks who have driven the models you are looking at and compare before you buy. You may find the six cylinder is the better choice but not always. Researching any vehicle you buy is always imperative before making a car buying decision.
-Take care, The Motor Medics Dear Motor Medics, My car recently suffered a lot of hail damage in a storm and I have been working with my insurance company to get the matter resolved. They want to replace things like the hood and trunk and a fender with a salvage
yard part which matches correctly according to them and on the roof they want to do painless dent repair. My car is ten years old and has full coverage and with only 70k miles I want it fixed but I want all new parts and paint but they say they don’t have to provide that, they say they just have to make it look like it did before the damage. Do salvage yard parts look as good as my old ones and can they really take out dents with no painting?
-Dan in Sioux City, Iowa Dear Dan,
That is really low miles for the age and we can understand your concern. If like kind and quality parts are needed for a repair a auto recycler is often the place the insurance companies will turn to as a source. These places carefully inspect their inventory and will help to supply them with the part that matches exactly and sometimes they don’t even need paint if the finish is as good as the car they are going on and the color is a match. As for the paintless dent removal, it can be done carefully by a skilled paintless dent technician.
-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
Highway 238 Upsala to Little Falls to open with continued lane closures through early August
The Highway 238 detours north of Upsala and Elmdale to Little Falls, Morrison County, are set to be removed by July 1, with continued lane closures though early August, reports the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
The detours to replace 14 underground drainage structures along Highway 238 began early in June, and crews will begin resurface operations after the Independence Day holiday week.
Local Municipality Minutes
Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com
Burnhamville Township • May 27, 2025
Work will occur weekdays (possible Saturdays), sunrise to sunset on good weather days. Crews will paint temporarily road stripes each day. Permanent road striping and mumble/rumble strips will be installed when all layers of asphalt have been paved.
When complete in early August, the project will improve the road surface, drainage and safety along 19 miles of Highway 238.
Visit MnDOT’s Highway 238 project page for additional information. Check real-time road conditions on 511mn.org.
Motorists should plan for lane closures and delays with multiple crews at work when traveling through the work zone on Highway 238. Expect segments of one-lane traffic with flaggers and a pilot car to pave the road surface between Upsala and Little Falls. Locations will change and move throughout the day. Pay close attention to work zone signage and expect to slow down, stop and wait.
University of Minnesota donates CPR device to Morrison County
The Center for Resuscitation Medicine at the University of Minnesota Medical School recently donated an automated CPR device - known as LUCAS - to the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office as part of a new pilot project aimed at equipping law enforcement agencies across Minnesota with life-saving technology.
Manual compressions during extended wait times can be both physically exhausting and variable in effectiveness. The LUCAS device ensures continuous compressions to patients experiencing cardiac arrest to improve outcomes and reduce fatigue for first responders.
“In emergency situations, every second counts, and the LUCAS device allows first responders to focus on other critical interventions while ensuring that effective chest compressions are continuously administered,” said Demetris Yannopoulos, MD, director of the
Local Library Events
Albany Library • 320-845-4843
The Raptor Center: Come and experience the awe-inspiring world of birds of prey! Join Raptor Specialists for an unforgettable opportunity to see and learn about live raptors. The Raptor Center will be bringing three incredible ambassador birds—typically an owl, a hawk, and a falcon—allowing you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures while discovering fascinating facts about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts. Join us at the Blattner Energy Art Theatre (BEAT) for this show for children of all ages and their families. Sponsored by Melrose Community Education and Albany Community Education. Location: Blattner Energy Art Theatre (BEAT): Tuesday, July 15: 10:00 a.m.
Long Prairie Library • 320-732-2332
Thursday Afternoon Book Club: Join a local book club and explore titles from across the genres. Each month, readers select a title then meet as a group for discussion and sharing what they learned and liked (or didn’t like) about the book. Please check with the library for title selections. Meets the second Thursday of the month. For adults. Thursday, July 10: 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Melrose Library • 320-256-3885
Garbage Friends with Now.Make.Art.: Turn everyday materials into brand new puppets and companions of your creation. Critters, people, or mythical creatures–-the only limit is your imagination! Drop in and take your time—spend 5 minutes, 30 minutes, or the whole event time creating! For all ages, with a special focus on children 10 and under with adult caregivers. This
Center for Resuscitation Medicine. “As we continue to prioritize the health and safety of our communities, the integration of such innovative technologies will undoubtedly play a vital role in saving lives and enhancing the overall effectiveness of emergency medical services in Minnesota.”
Morrison County Sheriff’s Office is one of 50 agencies throughout Minnesota selected to receive a device.
Over the next year, the Center for Resuscitation Medicine will be examining how agencies use the devices to determine feasibility and the overall benefit to patient outcomes. The initiative is funded as part of an $18 million grant from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to provide life-saving devices statewide to law enforcement agencies and first responders.
program was made possible with Arts & Cultural Heritage Funds from Minnesota’s Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment. Thursday, July 10: 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
The Raptor Center: Come and experience the awe-inspiring world of birds of prey! Join Raptor Specialists for an unforgettable opportunity to see and learn about live raptors. The Raptor Center will be bringing three incredible ambassador birds—typically an owl, a hawk, and a falcon—allowing you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures while discovering fascinating facts about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts. Join us at the Marit Elliot Performing Arts Center for this show for children of all ages and their families. Sponsored by Melrose Community Education and Albany Community Education. Location: Marit Elliot Performing Arts Center: Tuesday, July 15: 1:30 p.m.
Sauk Centre Library • 320-352-3016
Adult Book Club: Enjoy reading and discussing old and new favorites while meeting new people. Meeting will be held the second Thursday of the month. If available, pick up a book club kit copy (or request) from the library. No limit. No registration required. Thursdays, July 10 & Aug. 14: 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Lego Challenge: Wednesday, July 9 from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Play Dough Making: Wednesday, July 16 from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Upsala Library • 320-412-2048
Lego Challenge: Tuesday, July 8 from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m.
Play Dough Making: Tuesday, July 15 from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m.
Road Grader & Maintenance Position
The Elmdale Township has an opening for a part-time road grader & maintenance position. This will be a year-round position. Assisting the lead road grader with the following duties: grading roads, plowing snow, cutting road ditches, minor repairs on equipment, replacing road signs, monthly recycling and other duties as needed.
Approximately 10-15 hours per week. Hours will depend on the weather. Starting pay would be $27/hour, depending on experience. CDL is a plus or willing to obtain. For more details, please contact Bill Koopmeiners 605-695-8534.
The regular meeting of the Town Board of Burnhamville was held May 27, 2025 at the Burtrum Community Center. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Mike Berscheit. Members present include Supervisors Mike Berscheit, Joe Muellner and Bruce Johnson; Clerk Shirley Hulinsky and Treasurer Pam Throener. Also present was Erv Herdering.
The minutes from the regular meeting of April 29, 2025 were approved on a motion by Sup. Johnson and second by Sup. Berscheit. Motion passed.
For correspondence the township received letters from Planning and Zoning, Public Works for mileage certification, and MATIT for insurance review.
Sup. Berscheit moved a motion to approve the mileage certification sent by Todd County Public Works. Motion was seconded by Sup. Muellner. Motion passed.
A motion was moved by Sup. Berscheit to pay all bills numbered 6829 through 6840 totaling $55,635.46. Sup. Johnson seconded the motion. Motion passed.
The board reviewed the insurance listing and discussed equipment. After discussion the clerk will contact MATTIT to add new dump trailer to insurance.
With the heavy rains supervisors and contractor will review annual road inspection list and update changes necessary due to road conditions. 150th Street will need to be sprayed again this year. The board and contractor will watch Morrison Line Road and Flicker Road. 168th St and Explorer will need gravel and blading before dust control spray.
The township clean-up day was very busy and went well. Have not received any bills.
Long Lake Improvement Association usually maintains the public access there, but with members getting older the Swanville Sportsmen Club will work on it.
Todd County Soil and Water Conservation inspected the buffer strip on Dunlin Road and Enchanted Loop and requested the township board do the same. Sup. Johnson viewed the area and plans on mowing the buffer with the lawn mower to keep weeds down so buffer plants can grow and possibly have Sup. Berscheit use brush cutter to clean up area. Sup. Johnson will meet with SWCD staff at the buffer to discuss plan.
The Treasurer’s report shows balance of $87,887.44. Report approved on a motion by Sup. Berscheit and second by Sup. Muellner. Motion passed.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:41 p.m. on a motion by Sup. Berscheit and a second by Sup. Johnson. Next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 7 pm in the Burtrum Community Center.
Shirley Hulinsky, Burnhamville Township Clerk
Burtrum City • June 3, 2025
Call to Order/Roll Call: The Mayor called the meeting order at 7:03 P.M.
Attendance: Mayor Romie Gessell Jr., Sara Macho, Bobby Veldkamp Jr., Irene Ehlert, Juli Scherping, and City Clerk Brooke Thieschafer.
The Pledge of Allegiance resided. Agenda: Macho made a motion to approve. Seconded by Scherping. All in favor, motion carried.
Minutes: Macho made a motion to approve the May minutes. Supported by Scherping. All in favor, motion carried.
Bills: Ehlert made a motion to approve the bills from May 2025. Seconded by Scherping. All in favor, motion carried.
Todd County Sheriff’s Report: City Clerk went over the calls for the month.
Building Permits: Kathy Marty - Requesting to build a 21’x36’ pole shed. Will need permission from the landowner in writing. The building committee will verify location.
Old Business: Sign Location - Sign will be moved when weather is permitting.
Ordinances: Mayor contacted the attorney. The attorney stated there should be a book of ordinances somewhere. The city does not know of the location of the book. Current Mayor has reached out to the former Mayors to see if they know the location. Mayor Gessell will reach out to the county to see if they have any on file.
Grade street and dust control: Herdering did come and grade in May. Mayor Gessell asked for an estimate from them. Quote - 3 Loads of Class 5 - $685. Dust control$7819.20. Total $8491.20. Big Stone would be interested next year in giving us a quote. Suggestions of getting a request by the foot. No decisions were made at this time.
City Equipment can now be removed from the agenda.
Macho brought up long lawns within the city limits.
New Business: Heritage Club PermitPermit to sell the raffle tickets. Bobby Veldkamp made a motion to approve. Irene Ehlert supported. All in favor, motion carried.
Heritage Club is also requesting a temporary liquor license for their event. Irene Ehlert made a motion to approve. Juli Scherping supported. All in favor, motion carried.
City Garbage - A question was asked why do we not have garbage? Discussion was had on getting garbage. The City Clerk will pricing for some bins. More to come.
Impact funds - City Clerk discussed we are needing to spend about $5000 worth of items for our kitchen Sourcwell Projects. Some ideas were discussed: More tables and/ or cabinets, roasters, garbage bins. City clerk will get things ordered.
Open Floor
Announcements: There have been additional eggs donated for next years Easter Egg Hunt. Burnhamville Township wants to acknowledge everyone who helped.
Adjournment: Macho made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:05 PM. Veldkamp supported. All in favor, motion carried. Next City Council meeting is scheduled for July 1st, 2025 at the Burtrum Community Center.
Brooke Thieschafer, City Clerk
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070
Mon., July 7: Shepherd’s pie, peas, peaches, bread.
Tues., July 8: Tilapia, rice pilaf, broccoli, bread.
Wed., July 9: Pizza casserole, corn, oranges, bread.
Thurs., July 10: BBQ chicken on bun, tater tots, 3 bean salad, cake.
Fri., July 11: Sausage, egg & cheese biscuit sandwich, applesauce, yogurt, cinnamon roll.
Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
July 3, 2025
GARAGE SALE: 5 family! July 2: 1-6pm; July 3-4: 8am-6pm; July 5: 8am-4pm. 3 miles East of Upsala, 6775 30th St. (Cty. 21) Larry Erickson residence.
WANTED TO BUY: Dairy Heifers and Cows. 320-894-7175. SC-evB
WANTED: Geo Tracker, good shape, reasonable price. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn
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.
FOR SALE: Red Oak, black & white Ash lumber, dried. Call 320-232-0048.
FOR SALE: 1984 red Corvette, top comes off, 105,000 miles, automatic, $10,500 or B/O. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn
FOR SALE: Craftsman 6” jointer with cabinet, excellent condition, Model #10320620, $400. Call 320-766-3119. DC-tfn
FOR SALE: 1983 Ford Mustang GLX convertible, 60,000 miles, automatic, white w/ white leather interior, 3.8L, V6, kept in garage, excellent condition, $9,000. Call 320766-3119. DC-tfn
FOR SALE: Vibo boat lift, canopy cover needs replacement, $750. Call 320-7663119. DC-tfn
FOR SALE: 2 culverts: 25 ft. long, 30 inches diameter, $1000; 18 ft. long, 36 inches diameter, $1,000. Call 320-573-3939. 7/3
FOR SALE: 1994 Corvette, loaded, new tires, 60,000 miles, black, removable top, $10,500. Call 320-290-0924.
FOR SALE: New potatoes organically grown, $1 a pound. Call 320-632-3336.
FOR SALE: The pad by Aqua lily, size 17x6 feet, new in box, $275. Call 763-2189383.
FOR SALE: 3 fire rings, $50 each. Call 320-573-3939. 7/25
FOR SALE: 2019 Polaris Ranger 900 XP, 1900 miles, back bumper & mudflaps, back and front glass $9,800. Call 584-5405.
FOR SALE: New in box foldable exercise bike, 16 pressure levels, arm exercise, paid $137, will sell for $100. Call 320-360-0343. TK
FOR SALE: 8 pc. Analon cookware, good condition, $30.Text for pictures 320-8151768.
FOR SALE: Paper shredder $10. Call 320815-1768.
Senior Facilities Support provides maintenance, grounds and custodial
• Take down & cleanup of silos in congested areas
Mobile Concrete Crushing • Fully Insured 507-236-9446 topdownsilo.com
APARTMENTS FOR RENT
VILLAGE VIEW APARTMENTS •
•
• Electric heat included
• Free access to DISH Network
• Elevator and Accessible Entry door openers
• Well maintained by caretakers who care
• Raised gardens
• Controlled Access entrance door locks
• Community room with kitchen for large gatherings
• Mail delivery and pick-up in building
• Two laundry rooms, craft room, three lobby areas for visiting
• Air conditioned halls and public areas
• Friendly residents • Monthly Board Meetings • Pet Friendly
