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Hometown News
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Don’t let perceptions be based on deceptions -By Harvey Mackay
MONDAYS • 5 PM
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A welldressed gentleman was headed into a drinking establishment when he spotted an elderly man fishing in a puddle outside. He invited him inside for a drink. As they sipped their whiskeys, the gentleman thought he would humor the old-timer and asked, “How many have you caught today?”
The old man replied, “You’re the eighth.”
How many times have you perceived the wrong scenario? What you see may not be reality. Perception can be misleading.
I have another way of saying this when I speak to corporate audiences: Things are not necessarily as we always perceive them to be. I often share the story of the man and his son who are in a car accident and are badly injured. The younger man needs emergency surgery. But at the hospital, the surgeon says, “I cannot operate on this person. He is my son.” But wait, wasn’t the father injured too?
Yes, but you would be amazed at how many people, in this day and age, have not figured out that the surgeon is in fact his mother. When I first started using this example some years back, very few made the connection. Now it’s probably 50-50. Perceptions change, but not always as quickly as reality.
Marcus Aurelius, Roman emperor, said, “Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth.
A variety of factors affect your perception:
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30
what you can actually see or hear or feel, previous experiences, opinions of others, even concerns about how you might be perceived. How you perceive a thing determines how you receive a thing. If you perceive something as negative, that’s exactly how you will receive that message. In other words, your outlook often determines your outcome.
“We must look at the lens through which we see the world, as well as the world we see, and that the lens itself shapes how we interpret the world,” wrote Stephen R. Covey in “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change.”
Understanding how people perceive customer relationships is crucial in business. Perception can significantly impact a company’s reputation, customer loyalty and overall success. Here’s an in-depth look at why perception is so important:
Trust and credibility. Trust is the cornerstone of any strong relationship. If customers perceive your business as trustworthy and credible, they are more likely to remain loyal and recommend your services to others. Consistency is key. Consistent and reliable service helps build a positive perception over time.
Brand image. The initial perception customers have of your brand can set the tone for the entire relationship. A positive first impression can lead to long-term loyalty. How customers perceive your brand in comparison to competitors can be a deciding factor in their purchasing decisions.
Customer experience. Customers don’t just buy products; they buy experiences. A positive perception of the customer experience can lead to repeat business and referrals. Actively seeking and responding to customer feedback can enhance perception by showing that you value their opinions and are willing
to adapt.
Handling negative perceptions. Addressing negative perceptions quickly and transparently can mitigate damage and restore trust. Regularly monitor online reviews and social media to manage and improve public perception.
You can also enhance customer perceptions by going above and beyond in customer service to create memorable experiences. Also, engaging with customers authentically and personally builds stronger connections.
On the first day of school, a teacher was glancing over the class roll and noticed that after each student’s name was a number such as 138, 140, 154, and so on.
“Look at these IQs,” she thought excitedly. “They’ve given me a terrific class!”
As a result, the elated teacher worked harder with this class than with her others. She tried innovations that she thought would challenge them and hold their interest. And it worked! The class did much better than any of the other classes she had taught in the usual way.
Only later did she find out that the figures after each pupil’s name stood for their locker numbers, not their IQs.
Upcoming Events
• Combined Fund Sauk Centre at 5:30 p.m. at Minnesota National Bank, 2nd Level, Sauk Centre.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
• BEAT Series The Newfangled Four at 7 p.m. at the Blattner Energy Arts Theatre, Albany.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4
• Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting at 2 p.m. at CentraCare West Campus Board Room, Long Prairie.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5
• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle. See ad on page 5.
THURS.-SUN., NOV. 6-9
• Melrose High School Fall Musical Cinderella at the Marit Elliott Performing Arts Center, Melrose. Nov. 6-8 at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 9 at 2 p.m.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8
• Our Savior’s Women’s Group Craft Sale from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Albany. See ad on page 7.
• Craft/Vendor Show from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Pondview Estates, Albany. See ad on page 7.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11
• Upsala American Legion Post 350 Veterans Day Dinner & Program from 6-8 p.m. at the Upsala Recreation Center.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22
• Harvest Supper from 5-8 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church basement, New Munich.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23
• Holiday Expo & Craft Fair from 11
a.m.-3 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion. 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
• Freeport: Meets 1st Wednesday of the month at the Freeport Senior Center.
• Holdingford: 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 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 7 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.
Weekend Weather
Harvey Mackay continued to
“The Good Old Days” -By Tom
Kuehne
Several of my readers have suggested that I do a story about tricks that were played on Halloween in the past. I hesitated to relate stories and experiences from the past, but decided many of these stories had been told to the younger generation already, so why not.
Halloween or All Saints Day was originally a day of remembrance of those individuals who had passed away. It was a church holiday, but as centuries passed, the trick or treat mentality became the holiday’s prevalent feature.
Tricks were part of the Halloween celebration from our past. Some of the tricks were just silly, but others were actually hazardous. Sometimes the trick backfired on the trickster.
Corn shocks and outdoor toilets created an attraction, since it seemed that they needed to be tipped over. Sometimes the corn shock was dragged out on to the road, which would cause a scare to anyone driving on the road. In one case, a farmer hid in the corn shock, “scaring the heck” out of the tricksters. Other times the owner of a toilet would move it ahead several feet and the trickster would suddenly find themselves in a hole with poo halfway up to their knees. My Great Grandfather was in the outhouse when the tricksters came and his loud response scared them away.
Another story involved a teacher in a country school. The kids found a large garter snake, put it in the center drawer of her desk and waited half a day for her to be shocked by the trick. The trick was actually on the kids, since when she opened the drawer, she calmly picked up the snake, carried it outside and returned to resume class as if it was an everyday happening.
Saw dust from a lumber yard was dragged across the street to create a sawdust drift. The back corner of a car was jacked up, a block was placed under the axle and the car then wouldn’t move.
In one instance a group of young guys carried a boat to the top of a flat roofed hardware store, causing some distress on the part of the store owner and the boat owner. A teacher owned a small car called an Isetta. It being small enough to be picked up by 6 kids, was carried from the street to a spot near the school building.
Today the holiday has shifted to younger children. Accompanied by adults, they put on some masks and costumes and go to homes and businesses “trick or treating.” I think that in some cities there are restrictions as to the acceptable costumes. Most of the kids are home shortly after sundown.
The old tricks which were played in the past years required work on the part of the trickster, which now takes the fun out of it. Our government, in it’s drive to protect it’s citizens, has enacted laws and penalties on tricksters. Jail time and psychological evaluation would be some of the penalties. It’s wonderful that we were able to reach adulthood with all of our psychological difficulties and didn’t have a criminal record for tipping a toilet.
For feedback or story ideas, email Tom at kuehneins@gmail.com.
If you need help with Health or Life Insurance or for Senior Health Solutions Contact: Tom Kuehne 320-360-0343
Harvey Mackay continued from pg 2
Even though her class had children of all ability levels, this teacher’s perception that her students were super-smart produced aboveaverage results. I suspect she learned a lesson too – that the power of perception can unlock hidden potential.
Mackay’s Moral: In business, perception is reality. How you are perceived by your customers can be the difference between success and failure. Always strive to create a positive and lasting impression.
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.”
From the Desk of Pastor Bruce
This week I was impressed again at how the whole Bible is tied together in one way or another. I started preaching in Colossians a few weeks ago and the Apostle Paul is telling the church in Colosse that he always thanks God for the love that the people have for each other. He goes on to say that the love and faith that they have stems from the hope they have in heaven.
The interesting thing is that the whole world had heard about the church in Colosse bearing fruit and growing. Here is the amazing thing, my commentary mentioned that this is what churches are supposed to do! They do not stay stagnant and just only exist. The commentary goes on to say that from the very beginning of creation we are told to increase.
Genesis 1:22 talks about God telling the animals to be fruitful and increase in number. Genesis 1:28 says the same only God is telling Adam and Eve to be fruitful and increase in number. We find the same thing with the people of Israel! God blesses Abraham and says that his family will be like the sand of the seashores and like the stars in the sky, un-countable is the general idea.
Lori and I have four children, all with different personalities and as they were growing up, they all were at a different maturity level. Now, as married adults, we now have three grandchildren, almost four; so, in a manner of speaking, our kids are being fruitful and increasing in number.
God’s command to us is found in Mat-
Lunch Specials: 11 AM-1 PM
Fri., Oct. 31:
Nov. 5: Cheeseburger Basket Thurs., Nov. 6: Meatloaf Dinner
Nov. 7: Cheeseburger w/Chili or Fries THURSDAYS •
thew 28:19-20 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This is called “The Great Commission” -Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
A Grandma Funny
I was out walking with my 4-year-old granddaughter. She picked up something off the ground and started to put it in her mouth. I took the item away from her and I asked her not to do that.
“Why?” my granddaughter asked.
“Because it’s been on the ground. You don’t know where it’s been, it’s dirty, and probably has germs,” I replied.
At this point, my granddaughter looked at me with total admiration and asked, “Grandma, how do you know all this stuff? You are so smart.”
I was thinking quickly, “All Grandmas know this stuff. It’s on the Grandma Test. You have to know it, or they don’t let you be a Grandma.”
We walked along in silence for 2 or 3 minutes, but she was evidently pondering this new information. “Oh...I get it!” she beamed, “So if you don’t pass the test, you have to be the Grandpa.”
“Exactly,” I replied.
Martin “Marty” H. Strom
Martin “Marty” Howard Strom passed away on October 19, 2025, at the age of 18. Marty was born on June 12, 2007, at St. Cloud Hospital. He is the beloved son of Robert and Jennifer (Oslund) Strom, and cherished brother of Sophia Strom. He is also survived by his girlfriend, Brenna Nelson of Crosby, MN; uncle David Strom of Upsala, MN; aunt Erin (Mike) Blair of Little Falls, MN; uncle Matt Oslund of Little Falls, MN; grandfather Martin Strom of Upsala, MN; grandparents Howard and Deb Oslund of Little Falls, MN; and great-grandmother Eileen Avery of Little Falls, MN.
He was preceded in death by grandmother Janet Strom of Upsala, MN.
Marty graduated from Crosby-Ironton High School in 2025. He was attending the Plumbing and HVAC program at St. Cloud Technical and Community College and worked at Godfrey Plumbing and Heating. He was an excellent athlete, excelling in football and in track and field as a shot put and discus thrower. Marty was also an active leader at school, serving as a Link Crew Leader and Unified Phy Ed Partner.
An avid outdoorsman, Marty especially loved spending time duck hunting with his best friend, William. His energy, humor, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
A Celebration of Life in honor of Marty will be held on Saturday, November 1, from 1–4 p.m. at the Taconite Canteen in Ironton, MN.
The family is creating a memorial scholarship in Marty’s name. Donations toward this scholarship would mean a great deal to the family as they honor his memory and spirit.
James August Loehr
James August Loehr, 76, of Grey Eagle died unexpectedly October 19 at St. Cloud Hospital. Jim was born in Melrose to Sophia (Schanhaar) and August Loehr. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time at Big Birch Lake with his friends and family. Jim graduated from Melrose High School in 1967 and went on to play football at NDSU. From 1970 to 1972 he served in the US Army and returned to attend St. Cloud State University where he met the love of his life Renee Johnston. After college Jim worked in the natural gas pipeline industry eventually becoming a Regional Manager for NPL where he worked until his retirement. He will be remembered by his colleagues for his mentorship and exceptional leadership. He lived his life by the core values of his company and dedicated many years to its success. Through his work with NPL he and Renee were able to live in some very special places in the US and Canada. Of course, these usually included world class fishing. After all, Jim always had a plan.
When Jim retired, they moved to the home they built on Big Birch Lake. Jim was a great storyteller and did he have some stories to tell. Friends were always welcome to join him as he sat on his favorite log bench outside his garage with tales of his adventures. Jim loved music and always had the radio playing in the background. He taught himself to carve totem poles and used his skills to craft wooden signs. Jim enjoyed golfing, pheasant hunting and spending time at deer camp with his family and friends, but his real passion was fishing. He spent many hours on his boat both on Big Birch and Lake of the Woods. Winter would find him in his fish house with a friend or two, or on his way to Mexico with Renee to fish the Sea of Cortez.
Jim will be remembered by those who knew him for his generous spirit and energetic love of life. He was preceded in death by his parents “Gus” and Sophia, and survived by his wife, Renee and his “pretty good” hunting dog Roscoe.
A celebration of life is being planned for the Spring.
Alice M. Moening
Alice M. Moening, age 89 of Melrose, passed away surrounded by family on Thursday October 22, 2025 at Cura Care Centre in Melrose, Minnesota.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday, October 29 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.
Alice Marie Schreifels was born April 11, 1936 in Richmond, Minnesota to John and Frances (Kron) Schreifels. On August 30, 1958, she was united in marriage to John “Jack” Moening at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. Alice worked at the Melrose Telephone Company as a switchboard operator, at Fingerhut in Sauk Centre, and at Funky’s in Melrose as a waitress. She enjoyed bowling, playing bingo, putting puzzles together, attending many sporting events with Jack, and loved going to casinos.
She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose.
Survivors include her children, Randy (Sue) Moening, Dan “Tootie” (Melinda) Moening, Rick (Janel) Moening, and Lisa Wensmann; eight grandchildren and 14 greatgrandchildren; sister, Esther Steinemann; and sister-in-law, Val Schreifels.
Alice was preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, Brian Wensmann; greatgranddaughter, Cardi Cruz; brothers, Cyril, Victor, Marc, and Howard Schreifels; and sisters, Del Gieske, Julie Schreifels, Celesta Denne, Iris Hiltner, and Ellen Primus.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
Brian P. Miles
Brian P. Miles, age 64 of Sauk Centre formally of the twin cities area, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Friday, October 24, 2025 at his home in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Roseville with Father Marc Pavelglio officiating. Inurnment will be at Roselawn Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.
Brian Paul Miles was born March 28, 1961 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Paul and Della (Swanson) Miles. He was united in marriage to Janice Ranger on July 11, 1981 in Nashwauk, Minnesota. Brian was a certified welder by trade who worked for various companies over his career. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing, and shared that passion with his children, family and friends.
Survivors include his loving wife of 44 years, Janice Miles of Sauk Centre; children, Jake Miles of Chisago City and Rachel Miles of Sauk Centre; father, Paul “Hank” Miles of Roseville; and sisters, Janine (Drew) Julien and Shannon (Eric) Abrego.
Brian was preceded in death by his mother, Della Miles; and his infant brothers.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
Benjamin Gruenes
Benjamin J. Gruenes, age 41, of McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey, formerly of Spring Hill, Minnesota, left this world suddenly and unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. His departure leaves a profound void in our hearts, and as we remember him, let us celebrate the extraordinary life he lived with passion, love, and unwavering devotion.
A Mass of Christian Burial with full military honors, will be held on Saturday, November 1st at 11:00 a.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Spring Hill, Minnesota. Visitation starting at 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Rev. Mitchell Bechtold will be officiating. A private inurnment will be held at a later date.
Benjamin was born on July 21, 1984, to Tony and Mary (Klein) Gruenes. From a young age, his spirit was vibrant and full of determination. He grew up in service working at his parents’ store, Melrose Conoco. He graduated from Melrose High School in 2003, and his journey of service continued soon after when he proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force. For over 20 years, Benjamin dedicated his life to defending our country, serving bravely both overseas and stateside, including deployments in Operation Enduring Freedom. Rising to the rank of Technical Sergeant, his commitment and courage inspired everyone around him.
Yet, beyond his military service, Benjamin’s true joy came from the simple pleasures—laughter, camaraderie, and the thrill of a game. He loved everything related to baseball and softball, especially cheering on the Minnesota Twins. Whether in person with his best friend Josh or on TV, he soaked in the games with excitement and pride. His love for the sport was more than just a pastime—he cherished the friendships he forged along the way, playing recreational softball throughout his military career, even becoming an umpire.
Benjamin’s spirit shone brightest through his devotion to his children. His four beloved boys—Joshua, Gabriel, Nathaniel and Thaddeus all from New Jersey—were the lights of his life. His heart swelled with pride every moment he was with them, and he dreamed of passing on his passion for baseball and softball to them, nurturing memories and dreams that would forever tie their hearts together.
He is survived by his beloved boys, his parents, Tony and Mary Gruenes of Albany, MN. His siblings: Jim (Tammy) Gruenes, Kahului, Hawaii; Nancy (Kevin) Dobos, Albany, MN; Mike (Melissa) Gruenes, Roberts, WI; Mark (Jennifer) Gruenes, Minneota, MN; JoAnn Moen, Sioux Falls, SD; Tony Gruenes, Avon, MN; Pat (Beth) Gruenes, Attleboro, MA; William (Michelle) Gruenes, Grand Forks Air Force Base, ND. His legacy also lives on through numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins who adored him.
Benjamin was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, MaryJo Gruenes, and brother-inlaw, Wayne Moen.
Benjamin’s legacy is woven into the hearts of all who knew him—a true hero, a loving father, and a true loyal friend. We celebrate his life and cherish the memories that will inspire us forever. May his soul find peace, and may we carry forward his legacy of love, strength, and passion.
The St Isidore council Knights of Columbus chapter 9307 took part in the Knights of Columbus Coats for Kids program. This program allows the Knights to purchase new winter coats at a discounted price, and distribute them to children in their local communities. The goal of this Coats for Kids program is to ensure that no child in North America goes without a coat during the winter season. This was made possible by the generous donations of local businesses. Many of these businesses look forward to participate in this program. The Knights are proud to serve their communities.
Pictured above: Avon Elementary (left to right): Brandon Skroch, Tyler LaBonne, Rachel Derosier, Stephanie Stang, Bill Anderson, Marvin Eiynck, Lloyd Rausch, Eric Ebnet, and Gayle Gibson.
Pictured below: Holdingford Elementary (left to right): Brandon Skroch, Jim Stang, Jennifer Meemken, Marvin Eiynck, Lloyd Rausch, and Eric Ebnet. Submitted by Marvin Eiynck.
Gary Carl Glockzin
Gary Carl Glockzin, age 91, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025, at the Cura Care Center in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.
A church service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM with visitation beginning one hour before at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Grey
Eagle, officiated by Pastor Michael Bitz. Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Grey Eagle. A Celebration of Life will take place the same day from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the Double R Saloon.
Arrangements have been made by the Minnesota Cremation Society. Donations can be made in Gary’s honor to the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) to support the fight against financial exploitation of elders.
Annual Veterans Day Dinner & Program
The Swanville VFW and Swanville American Legion and Auxiliary invite all local Veterans and a guest to our annual Veterans Day Dinner and Program on Tuesday, November 11 at the Swanville Lions Park Building.
Social hour is from 5:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. with dinner served at 5:45 p.m.
The program will begin at 6:30 p.m. The Grey Eagle Community Choir “Ringers and Singers” will be performing several patriotic selections to honor our Veterans.
The American Legion Auxiliary will be honoring two local Veterans with Quilts of Honor made by Jodi Bebault for their time served to our country.
No RSVP required. Contact Carol Duke at 386-466-4380 for any questions,
RJ's Country Store
28916 County Rd. 17 - St. Rosa 320-836-2583
Gas/Diesel/Premium • Propane Exchange Groceries • Pep's Pork • Schaefer's Market Harry's Pizza • Bait • ATM
Halloween decorations at the Al Wessel residence in Greenwald.
Dorothy Blommel family pressed 69 gallons of apple cider on Saturday October 18, 2025. They’ve been getting together for 15 years and use a variety of apples from the yards of Dorothy, her children, neighbors and friends. Submitted by Jane Blommel.
Catholic United Financial #300 Holy Family Volunteer Team of Grey Eagle and employees from Magnifi Financial did a road ditch clean up on Monday, October 13.
Submitted by Cindy Mensen.
Sudoku
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’m trying to wrap my head around your commission method of giving money to kids. We have an 11-yearold and a 16-yearold. Should they have individual lists of tasks, or should there be one big list they both work from on a first-come, firstserved basis? Also, should giving, spending and saving be a mandatory part of the commission structure? Is there a time when children should age out of the commission structure?
-Camilla
Dear Camilla,
I really like the “age out” part of your question. So, let’s look at the entire scenario as an evolution. For starters, you should teach kids to work and manage money early, but at an age-appropriate level. We don’t send 3-year-olds to the salt mines. We might send a 16-year-old there ... I’m kidding, of course. But it’s not unfair to expect more of a 16-yearold and teach them with more sophistication and detail than you would a preschooler. If you tell a 3-year-old to clean up their room, those of us who have had kids that age know the child will put away two or three toys — and you’ll do 90% of the actual
work. Then, the kid gets lots of high-fives and praise for being the best room-cleaner on the planet. Oh, and here’s a dollar for doing one of your chores.
The point at that age is to teach them to make an emotional connection between work and money. Work creates money. It’s a simple concept, but I still talk to folks in their 40s and 50s every day who can’t seem to grasp the idea. After that, you can move on to things that are a little more complicated. You have to clean the room yourself. It’s your turn to feed the dog. And tasks get a little bigger, and little more complicated. This is a great time to introduce them to the uses for money — I’m talking about giving, saving and spending — and how to do all three.
By the time they’re 16 or so, they should know enough about money and how to handle it properly that you can help them open their own checking and savings accounts. Cosign on the accounts for them, and as they begin making more money through things like afterschool and summer jobs, they can practice managing their finances on a different level with parental oversight.
But the real point behind the commission structure is this: If you do the work, you get paid. If you don’t do the work, you don’t get paid. When they’re younger, and maybe don’t want to do a job here and there, that’s okay. They’re kids. What you’re doing is new to them, and it’s a learning process. But if it goes on for a couple of weeks, or they decide they’re just not going to do anything — that’s not an option. They’re going to learn to work.
Camilla, my goal as a parent wasn’t to raise great kids. It was to raise kids who became great adults. In my mind, parents do their kids an awful disservice if they don’t teach them how to be mature, functioning adults in the real world. And handling their finances wisely, along with learning the value of work, is a huge part of that.
-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,
My Ford Explorer has been acting up ever since it froze to the ground. I parked it in deep slush last year and the next day I couldn’t get it to budge like it was bolted down. At first, I thought it was the transmission, then the brakes, but then my wife who told me not to park in the slush set me straight. When I come to a stop, just a couple feet short of a complete stop the ABS brakes activate causing the pedal to sink and I don’t have control. What’s up?
-Scott in Parachute, Colorado
Dear Scott,
You’re not the first one to get a vehicle to freeze to the ground. It happens more than you think. It usually just takes a good thaw but sometimes a little too much action trying to get it loose will cause some damage. In your case we don’t think that this freeze was the lone cause but won’t rule it out. If you have made it a habit of parking or driving in areas of deep water or snow it may now be taking its toll though. The ABS (Anti-Lock-Brake) system uses a sensor on each of the front wheels that reads near the hub and if it becomes corroded due to moisture it can’t read at the low speeds and will falsely activate. This is just one possibility. Have it checked and avoid parking in deep water and snow.
-Take care, The Motor Medics
Dear Motor Medics,
My 2004 Chevy Tahoe has had a knock when cold since it was a couple years old and the dealership where I bought it always told me it was normal, and it wouldn’t hurt anything, and I did hear it in others, so I wasn’t too alarmed but now its knocking all the time and slightly worse. I’ve got 250k miles on it and I’m hoping to get at least another 50k out of her.
-Terry in Valentine, Nebraska
Dear Terry,
We’ve been listening to the dreaded Chevy 5.3 knock for years and sometimes we wonder if we have become numb to it. It’s so common that we don’t usually think twice about it. The engines have some piston slap noise that is worse when cold but once parts warm and expand they take up the slack and
stop knocking. The dealer was right in saying that if this is the sound you have that it won’t cause harm, but now you’re reaching the engines’ mature stage, and those noises may have nothing to do with the inherent noise of the 5.3. At 250k it could be a normal loose engine, or it could be getting ready to fail. Either way it’s been a long life for it and that’s good miles for a 5.3 even though some go longer. Have your local shop take a look and hopefully they will surprise you and say it’s still good to go for awhile.
-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.
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070
Mon., Nov. 3: Mexican hotdish, pineapple, churro, bread.
Tues., Nov. 4: Spaghetti w/meat sauce, noodles, green beans, bun/breadstick, cookie. Wed., Nov. 5: Baked chicken, O’Brien potatoes, carrots, Jello w/whipped topping, bread.
Thurs., Nov. 6: Ham salad on croissant, pasta salad, fresh fruit, chocolate ice cream. Fri., Nov. 7: Hamburger tomato casserole, peaches, chocolate pudding, bread. Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
Todays Thought
Telling someone to calm down is like baptizing a cat.
Local Municipality Minutes
Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com made Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
Grey Eagle City • September 23, 2025
The emergency meeting of the Grey Eagle City Council was called to order by Mayor Joseph Arnzen at 7:00 pm on the 23rd day of September 2025 in Council Chambers. Council members present were Brad Johnson, Brian Hollenkamp, Roland Ahrendt and Chris Browen. No council members were absent. Also in attendance was Beth Ramacher.
Discussion was held on which items will be included on the 2025-2026 Sourcewell Impact Funding application. There is funding available from Todd County from the Opioid Settlement for the purchase of AEDs and outdoor boxes; the City does not want to use Sourcewell dollars for this.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to rescind Resolution 2025-21 passed on September 9, 2025. 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. 2025-21: A RESOLUTION ALLOWING CITY OF GREY EAGLE TO SUBMIT A COMMUNITY IMPACT FUNDING APPLICATION TO SOURCEWELL FOR FINANCIAL SUPPORT FY 2025-2026
At the Council Meeting of the City of Grey Eagle on September 9, 2025, the following resolution was proposed and approved: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Grey Eagle City Council fully supports the City of Grey Eagle in implementing the Safety & Maintenance Projects (AEDs and outdoor boxes, water meter for water treatment plant & meter for fire hydrant). The Grey Eagle City Council of the City of Grey Eagle further supports the City of Grey Eagle in submitting a Community Impact Funding application to Sourcewell to request financial support for the Safety & Maintenance Projects.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 9th day of September 2025.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2025-22: Resolution Allowing the City to Submit a Community Impact Funding Application to Sourcewell. 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. 2025-22: A RESOLUTION ALLOWING CITY OF GREY EAGLE TO SUBMIT A COMMUNITY IMPACT FUNDING APPLICATION TO SOURCEWELL FOR FINANCIAL SUPPORT FY 2025-2026
At the Council Meeting of the City of Grey Eagle on September 23, 2025, the following resolution was proposed and approved: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Grey Eagle City Council fully supports the City of Grey Eagle in implementing the Maintenance Projects (zero-turn John Deere lawn mower and insulate the maintenance shop). The Grey Eagle City Council of the City of Grey Eagle further supports the City of Grey Eagle in submitting a Community Impact Funding application to Sourcewell to request financial support for the Maintenance Projects.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 23rd day of September 2025.
A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to adjourn the meeting at 7:09pm. A second was
The next regular meeting of the Grey Eagle City Council will be held at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 in Council Chambers.
Beth Ramacher, Clerk/Treasurer
Burnhamville Township • September 30, 2025
The regular meeting of the Town Board of Burnhamville was held September 30, 2025 at the Burtrum Community Center. The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by Vice- Chair Bruce Johnson. Members present include Supervisors, Bruce Johnson and Joe Muellner; Clerk Shirley Hulinsky; and Treasurer Pam Throener. Mike Berscheit was absent. Also present were Brittany Jordan and Erv Herdering.
The minutes from the regular meeting of August 26, 2025 were approved on a motion by Sup. Johnson and second by Sup. Muellner. Motion passed.
For correspondence the township received notices about additional road grants and Sourcewell grants were applied for.
Mike Berscheit requested to rent our skid steer to the City of Grey Eagle to help with some maintenance issues. Sup. Johnson moved a motion to approve the rental of skid steer. Sup. Muellner seconded the motion. Motion passed.
A motion was moved by Sup. Muellner to pay all bills numbered 6887 through 6901 totaling $18,564.86. Sup. Johnson seconded the motion. Motion passed.
A representative from Swanville Innovative School Project was present to request approval for a gambling permit. To help pay for teachers’ requests this school group is hosting an event on November 30 at Shattuck’s Hub Supper Club to raise funds for classroom use. Sup. Johnson moved a motion to approve the request. Sup. Muellner seconded the motion and motion passed. Sup. Johnson signed application and representative will take it to the county.
The clerk completed two grants from Sourcewell and will hear back in a few months if received funding for equipment.
The board received notice of a Local Road Improvement Grant and discussed possible use to improve 321st Ave. since it has a lot of heavy equipment traffic. The county suggested it will help sponsor the grant, but township would need to hire an engineer to develop a plan.
In the road report contractor added a lot of gravel to 331st Ave. south of the beach and on 160th St. to fix washouts and fixed curve/hill on Emerald Drive by Emerson Trail. Contractor will continue blading roads when rains come. Supervisors will do tree trimming with a rented machine the week of October 13.
The board heard a report from Swanville Fire meeting stating that things will remain about the same.
The Treasurer’s report shows balance of $48,020.50. Report approved on a motion by Sup. Johnson and second by Sup. Muellner. Motion passed.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:26 p.m. on a motion by Sup. Muellner and a second by Sup. Johnson. Next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 7 pm in the Burtrum Community Center.
Shirley Hulinsky, Burnhamville Township Clerk
Lorraine C. Zenzen
Lorraine C. Zenzen, age 85 of Avon, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at Mother of Mercy Nursing Home in Albany, Minnesota.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, November 3 at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany with Rev. Edward Vebelun, O.S.B. officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.
Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Monday at the Seven Dolors Gathering Area in Albany.
Lorraine Catherine Forster was born May 14, 1940 in Albany, Minnesota to Roman and Gertrude (Scherping) Forster. She attended Holy Family School and later graduated from Albany High School in 1958. On August 23, 1960, she was united in marriage to Gerald “Jerry” Zenzen at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany, Minnesota.
Lorraine worked as a secretary for a St. Cloud attorney’s office, as a bookkeeper for Seven Dolors Parish and Albany Oil in Albany and later as a receptionist for D.H. Blattner & Sons in Avon. She was a member of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany, the Christian Mothers, and St. Ann’s Society.
Lorraine was an avid reader who enjoyed playing cards, spending time with family, and researching genealogy. Her husband, children, their spouses, and grandchildren were very precious to her. Lorraine had a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and praying the rosary helped guide and comfort her throughout her life.
Survivors include her children, Jean (Jeff) Stottlemyer of Shoreview and Brad (Betty Jo) Zenzen of Albany; four grandchildren, Whitney Behrend, Brandon, Megan, and Evan Zenzen; sister, Pat (Ron) Toenies of Freeport; and sisterin-law, Bernie Forster of Albany.
Lorraine was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald J. Zenzen on May 6, 2024; her parents; children, Mark, Lisa, and Greg Zenzen; siblings, Leona Altenhofen, Romie Forster, Jr., and Kathy Maloney.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Avon, for Verda M. Reinke, age 96 of Avon, who passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025 at Mother of Mercy Nursing Home in Albany. Reverend Julius Beckermann, OSB officiated. Burial of the urn was in the parish cemetery.
Verda was born on August 9, 1929 in Lastrup, Minnesota to Bruno and Christine (Donnay) Kahlhamer. She graduated from Albany High School. Verda married Donald E. Reinke in 1948. Verda worked for Fingerhut and Cash Wise Foods. She was a member of St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Avon.
Verda enjoyed reading, knitting and walks. Her greatest joy was the time spent with her family.
Susan L. Brock
Susan LaVonne (Cafferty) Brock, 63, passed away on October 26, 2025 at the Methodist Hospital in Rochester after a courageous battle with cancer. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM -1:00 PM on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at the Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Avon. Burial will be at 2:00 PM in the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery near Little Falls.
Susan was born December 28, 1961 in Winsted, MN to Jerome & Theresa (Jaskowiak) Cafferty. She grew up in a large family of fourteen, seven brothers and seven sisters. The family lived on a farm in Waverly, MN. After high school Susan entered the United States Army (1980-2000). While serving her country, she worked as a Radiology Technician and Ultrasonographer. She served 20 years and retired with an honorable discharge in June 2000.
On April 27, 1984 Susan married Vernon Brock in Roskilde, Denmark while being stationed in Frankfurt, Germany. Together they raised 3 beautiful children. After retiring from the military, Susan and her family lived in Sacramento, CA for 5 ½ years. She worked as an Ultrasound Technologist for 25 years of her life. From California they moved back to Minnesota and resided in Avon. Susan also worked for many years as a Ultrasonographer at CentraCare Health Hospital in Monticello.
Susan enjoyed reading, gardening, traveling, working around home and spending time with her children, grandchildren, family and friends. Susan was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother who will be missed by all who know her. She will be forever in our hearts.
She is survived by her children, Nathan (Kimberly) Brock of Avon; Ashley (Michael) Sherman of Monticello; Amanda Brock of Avon; Jason (Micah) Brock of Caneyville, KY; 7 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild; six brothers, six sisters and many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.
She is preceded in death by her husband Vernon, of 28 years, in 2012; parents Jerome and Theresa Cafferty, brother Bernard Cafferty; fatherin-law, Roger A. Brock and mother-in-law, Della M. Brock.
Verda is survived by her daughters, Cheri of Avon, Rhonda (David) Panek of Albany, Kevin (Nancy) Reinke of Baxter, Karen (Mike) Kmitch of Avon; honorary daughter, Marlys (Al) Stocker of Albany; 13 grandchildren; 14 greatgrandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Pat Olson and Mary (Ralph) Mueller; sisters-inlaw, Sharon Janski and Shelby Heitzman; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband in 2003; daughter, Pam in 2013; son, Keith in 2023; son-in-law, Ron; greatgranddaughters, Aaliyah and Alexis Kalla; siblings; Norman Kalhamer, Rick Kalhamer, Auralia Cimenski.
Verda M. Reinke
Alternative Senior Care Senior Care
• Help clients and caregivers build their schedules
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: Experienced local housekeeper for 3-bedroom home in Grey Eagle/Melrose/Freeport area. Deep clean every three weeks. References helpful, Wanting long-term help. Only contact if serious. AWD vehicle necessary for winter. Leave text message at 320-497-5895. tfnB
Boats, cars, etc. Mound Lake 11/6
WANTED TO BUY: Butcher cows, bulls, fats & walkable cripples: also horses, sheep & goats. 320-235-2664. SC-odB
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: 1984 red Corvette, top comes off, 105,000 miles, automatic, $10,500 or B/O. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn
FOR SALE: Haralson apples are ripe and ready at Nancy’s Bait. Call 320-285-2405.
FOR SALE: 3 deer stands, $100 each. Call 320-573-3939. 11/6
FOR SALE: Toilet, like new, 15” high, $50. Call 320-573-3939. 10/30
FOR SALE: 200 ct. Mega Blocks in enclosed plastic bag, $25. Call 320-285-4577, leave message.
FOR SALE: Portable hunting stand, 12’ high with 4 sections, camo color, asking $75. Call 320-250-3874.
FOR SALE: Horseradish pickles $9 a quart. Call 320-632-3336.
FOR SALE: Hay. Call 320-249-5047.
FOR SALE: Firewood, all Oak boiler wood, you haul I load, $125/cord. Call 320573-3939. 1/29P
FOR SALE: Electric wheelchair w/charger, used very little, Freeport, $400. Call 320836-2588.
FOR SALE: Gorilla Deluxe tree stand, 2 seat 15 ft., used one time, $100. Call 320573-2340.
FOR SALE: Assortment of lumber, make offer. Big Birch Lake area 320-808-8631.
Local Library Events
Doug Ohman presents Schoolhouse Memories: Author and photographer Doug Ohman will take visitors on a nostalgic journey through America’s educational past. His storytelling, anchored in deep Minnesota roots, promises a trip back to the days when one-room schoolhouses were the centers of learning for children of all ages. For teens and adults.
Long Prairie: Wednesday, Nov. 5: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Grey Eagle: Wednesday, Nov. 5: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Upsala Library • 320-412-2048
Diamond Dot Painting Snowflake Ornament: Experience the joy of diamond dot crafting by making a beautiful snowflake ornament. All supplies provided. For children ages 6 to 12. Limit 10. Registration required. Saturday, Nov. 1: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Quilt as You Go Table Runner with Linda Temp: Linda and friends will lead you through techniques to make a table runner using the quilt-as-you-go method with coordinating fabric strips. If you are new to quilting, a table runner is an excellent beginner project. Kits of varying fabric choices will be available. The second session will be used to learn quilt binding techniques. For adults and teens. Limit 8. Sponsored by the Friends of the Upsala Public Library.
Please bring a sewing machine, bobbin, scissors, straight pins and walking foot (if you have one for your machine).
Wednesdays, Nov. 5 & 12: 2:30-5:00 p.m.