Hometown News September 11, 2025 by Hometown News

Hometown News

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Leadership is about enabling people to do things themselves -By

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A man found a cocoon for a butterfly. One day a small opening appeared, he sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to force its body through the little hole. Then it seemed to stop making any progress. It appeared stuck.

The man decided to help the butterfly and with a pair of scissors he cut open the cocoon. The butterfly then emerged easily. Something was strange. The butterfly had a swollen body and shriveled wings. The man watched the butterfly expecting it to take on its correct proportions. But nothing changed.

The butterfly stayed the same. It was never able to fly. In his kindness and haste the man did not realize that the butterfly’s struggle to get through the small opening of the cocoon is nature’s way of forcing fluid from the body of the butterfly into its wings so that it would be ready for flight.

Like the sapling which grows strong from being buffeted by the wind, in life we all need to struggle sometimes to make us strong.

But we also need to understand when we can use a little help. Acknowledging that it’s time to admit that we need to look for someone who can offer the kind of expertise and advice that will bring success is an important first step.

I’m a big believer in hiring coaches to teach me how to practice the right concepts, but I’m also aware that it is up to me. In the end, I’m the one who has to do it.

I’ve had a variety of coaches over the years. The list includes a personal trainer, a speech coach, foreign language coach, humor coach, idea coach, marathon coach, golf coach, tennis coach, skiing coach, swimming coach, dancing coach (thanks to my wife). I’ve got a memory coach, Internet coach, artificial intelligence coach, social media coach and so on.

In the context of coaching and leadership, it’s important for people to take initiative and handle tasks independently. This fosters a sense of ownership and helps develop problem-solving skills. Leaders should aim to empower their teams while also being available to offer assistance and feedback. This balance encourages growth and innovation while ensuring that individuals don’t feel overwhelmed. Here’s why:

Empowerment and growth. Allowing employees to handle tasks on their own encourages self-reliance and confidence. It empowers them to take ownership of their work and develop problem-solving skills.

When individuals are given the freedom to approach tasks in their own way, it can lead to creative solutions and new ideas. Employees can build their skills and expertise, which contributes to their professional growth and the overall success of the team.

Support and guidance. While independence is important, it’s also crucial to provide support when someone is struggling to prevent feelings of inadequacy and ensure

Harvey Mackay tasks are completed efficiently. When we coach and teach others it is helpful to recognize when people need to do things for themselves. Encouraging team members to seek help when needed fosters a collaborative environment. It shows that it’s okay to rely on others and that teamwork is valued.

In essence, while it’s important to let people take initiative and learn through doing, it’s equally important to be available for support and guidance. This balance can lead to a more dynamic and effective workplace.

In a bustling office, there was an intern named Tim who was eager to prove himself. One day, the office coffee machine broke down, and Tim saw it as his golden opportunity. He confidently declared, “Don’t worry, I’ll fix it!” Tim had never fixed a coffee machine before, but he was determined to figure it out. He spent hours tinkering, consulting online forums and even calling his uncle who once worked as a barista. Finally, he triumphantly announced that the machine was ready.

The first person to try the coffee was the office manager, who took a sip and immediately made a face. “Tim,” she said,

Upcoming Events

THURS.-SUN., SEPT. 11-14

• 51st Annual Albany Pioneer Days. SATURDAY, SEPTEBMER 13

• Grey Eagle Class of 1975 Class Reunion starting at 4 p.m. at the Double R Bar & Grill, Grey Eagle.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

• Grey Eagle Senior Center Meeting at 4:30 p.m. Potluck & Bingo to follow.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

• Todd County Farm Bureau Fall Harvest Banquet starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Clarissa Ballroom. See ad on page 5.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

• Time Traveler’s Trek: Family, Fun, Food & Festivities from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. at Sinclair Lewis Park, Sauk Centre.

SAT.-SUN., SEPT. 20-21

• 17th Annual Central MN Heritage Club Heritage Days, Burtrum. See ad on page 7.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

• Melrose Community Blood Drive from 12:30-6:30 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion.

• Polka in the Park from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the New Munich City Hall.

SATURDAY, SEPTEBMER 27

• 19th Annual Hog Roast from 4:30-7 p.m. at the Grey Eagle United Methodist Church. See ad on page 7.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

• St. Leo Court #786 Matching Fund Breakfast from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church basement, New Munich.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1

• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2

• Fluff-N-Puff Pillow Cleaning Service from 2-6 p.m. at the Holdingford City Center.

Temperatures

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4

• St. John’s Catholic Church 40th Annual Craft Fair from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Swanville School.

• 129th Annual Burtrum Bean Bake from 4:30-8 p.m. at the Burtrum Community Center.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11

• St. John’s Lutheran Church, Grey Eagle Annual Meatball Supper from 4:30-7 p.m. AL-ANON • AVON

• Meets every Monday from 5-6 p.m. at the Avon City Hall.

ALBANY FARMERS MARKET

• Meets every Thursday, Sept. 4-Oct. 2 from 3-6 p.m. Located at the corner of 2nd Street & Railroad Ave.

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.

Weekend Weather

“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne

Fall

A few of the Maples are beginning to turn red and yellow. Some of the corn fields are losing the bright green color and becoming more beige from frost and maturity. Pumpkins are starting to be part of the selections in the farmers markets, replacing the sweet corn that is now getting too sticky to eat. The wild turkey chicks are about as big as their mothers, the young deer are losing their spots and it’s again time for the Burtrum Bean Bake. October 4th is the special day when the large cooking kettles are removed from the ground, probably in a spot that has baked the beans for 129 years. The hole is dug, not with a shovel as it was done originally, but with a scoop mounted on a tractor. This machine was used to dig the hole, place and remove the kettles of beans from the hole and level out the dirt after the job was done. The beans are heated with Maple logs, placed in the hole and reduced to coals to perform the baking process. The beans remain on the coals for 24 hours.

This event is a result of a great deal of volunteers, who not only work on October 4th, but spend about a month doing the homemade food items that are part of the meal. For instance, 4 weeks before the big day, volunteers are already making homemade noodles, pies and inspecting the beans to remove foreign objects like stems, sticks and stones. Everything needs to be perfect!

The first person buried in the Moses Dane Cemetery, it wasn’t called that at the time, was a boy killed in an accident with horses. Moses Dane came about 4 years larter.

Moses was a Civil War Veteran from the Confederacy that for some unknown reason ended up in Burtrum. He lived in a rented room and gradually became acquainted with some of the guys that also lived in Burtrum. They frequently met to play cards and became good friends. In the early 1890’s Moses died and was buried in a cemetery about a forth of a mile south of the present day Moses Dane Cemetery. After four years the group of friends decided to honor Moses Dane by moving his body to the new cemetery, put a gravestone by his grave and name the cemetery after him. The stone still stands.

This Bean Bake is an occasion that is something to look forward to each fall. The food is good and you occasionally meet an old friend that you haven’t seen in years. Probably those working to make it a success are people you have remembered from years past. Hope to see you there!

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 “this coffee tastes ... interesting.”

Tim, looking sheepish, admitted, “I might have accidentally used salt instead of sugar. But hey, I learned a lot about coffee machines today!”

The office had a good laugh, and Tim learned a valuable lesson about doublechecking ingredients. More importantly, he gained confidence in his ability to tackle new challenges, even if the results were a bit salty at first.

Mackay’s Moral: Empowerment is key but knowing when to lend a hand can make all the difference.

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.”

Card of Thanks

Thank

Shirley

Jacobson

From the Desk of Pastor Bruce

During my daily devotions this morning, I came across a very comforting text. Romans 5:2-5 says as the heading “Peace and Joy” which is what all of us want, right? So, at the end of verse two it says “And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.” Verse one starts out by saying “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith…” We rejoice in the glory of God, because we have been justified! Paul, in Romans, has talked tirelessly on the fact that we are sinners, saved by the work of Jesus on the cross. It’s this fact that we REJOICE!

Romans 5:3-5 then says “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.”

“We also rejoice…” could be taken as, in addition to rejoicing in the fact that we are

justified, we can also rejoice when we suffer. Listen now, the truth is that we all have a hard time rejoicing when we suffer! But as believers we recognize that Jesus suffered, for us and on our behalf. The truth of the matter is that our suffering produces in us a strength that we cannot get unless we struggle. The benefits of struggling are perseverance and character and hope! The hope we have is in the fact that one day, because of the work of Jesus and His justification we can receive eternal life. What a hope that is. Sometimes we hope for silly things, at least when it comes to eternity. The hope we have is not a wishing well of earthly desire. It is something that we hang every decision and every ounce of strength on… our eternity with Jesus, that is the hope we are looking forward to.

-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916

MONDAY: 4-8 PM

Full Kitchen Open! Home Made Pizzas

TUESDAY: 5-9 PM

Burger Night $4.00 1/3 lb. Fresh Ground Hamburger on Brioche Buns! Dine In w/Beverage Purchase

THURSDAY: 5-9 PM

Includes Salad Bar & Choice of Potato

• Chicken & Ribs $17.95

• 8 oz. Ground Sirloin $15.95

• Creamy Sweet Chili Haddock w/Wild Rice $17.95

FRIDAY: 5-9 PM

WEDNESDAY: 11 AM-9 PM Domestic Beers: 2 for $6

• 1-1/2 lb. Wings $7.00

• $7 Baskets

Your Choice: Shrimp Basket, Angus Slider Basket, 1/4 Chicken Basket, Nachos or Quesadillas w/Beverage Purchase Specials to go $1.00 charge

SATURDAY: 5-9 PM

Includes Salad Bar & Choice of Potato

• Prime Rib $26.95

• Ribs $20.95

• Deep Fried Walleye $17.95

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo $15.95 or Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo $17.95 w/Breadsticks

• Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken, Wild Rice, w/Breadsticks $14.95

Diane M. Scherer

Diane M. Scherer, age 66 of St. Joseph, passed away surrounded by her family on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at Serenity Village Assisted Living in Avon, Minnesota.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday, September 10 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Derek Wiechmann officiating and Rev. Daniel Walz concelebrating. Entombment was held in the parish cemetery.

Diane Mary Scherer was born May 21, 1959 in St. Cloud, Minnesota to Cyril and Margaret (Rausch) Scherer. She graduated from Melrose High School in 1977. After high school she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. She received her bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND. Diane worked at Olivia Nursing Home as an Occupational Therapist. She also worked at St. Cloud Hospice and Home Health. She used the skills she acquired through her education and work experience in caring for her father and mother as they aged. Diane enjoyed gardening, art, photography, and had a love for animals, especially for her cats Gizmo and Friday.

Diane treasured her faith, friends, and family. Diane was a member of the Newman Center in St. Cloud where she volunteered for many things including making bread to be consecrated for the Eucharist for her parish. Diane enjoyed talking with her friends on the phone and spending quality time with them. She also enjoyed family gatherings with all the nieces, nephews and relatives.

Survivors include her brothers and sisters, Jim Scherer of Freeport, Lorna (Rob) Hammer of Sauk Centre, Theresa (Mark) Pearson of San Diego, California, Tom (Jenni) Scherer of Paynesville, Sandy (John) Von Wahlde of St. Rosa, Linda Scherer (Andy Opatz) of Sauk Rapids and Karen Scherer of St. Joseph; and many nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Cyril and Margaret Scherer; and infant sister, Barbara Mary.

Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Freeport.

Dorothy Elaine Helmbrecht

Dorothy Elaine Helmbrecht, age 92, of Little Falls, MN passed away Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Highland Senior Living in Little Falls. Memorial services will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at 3:00 PM at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses located at 14827 Prairie Drive, Little Falls, MN., with a luncheon to follow at Linden Hill. Private interment will be at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery. Caring for Dorothy and her family is the LeMieur Funeral Home in Little Falls, MN. Dorothy was born on May 13, 1933, in Mankato, MN. She was raised by her grandparents, Emil and Emma Ewald. Dorothy attended Lake Beauty District #65 for eight years and then graduated from Swanville High School in 1951. That same year, she moved to Minneapolis and worked as an office secretary. Later, in 1964, she moved to Montana and worked as a cook and bartender. It was there she met Clarence “Hap” Helmbrecht. They began talking about farming and where they had grown up; it was an amazing coincidence to find out he was from Long Prairie, MN! Together they returned to Minnesota in December of 1971 and farmed near Swanville from 1974-1983. They were united in marriage on March 15, 1979. While in Coram, Montana in 1964, Dorothy first came in contact with Jehovah’s Witnesses. In the summer of 1972, she was again contacted. Orean and Alma Hanson stopped by the house and left The Watchtower and Awake magazines with Dorothy. This was the beginning of a very long and beautiful friendship. Hap and Dorothy started studying the book “The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life”. Together they were baptized as Jehovah’s Witnesses in December, 1983 in Brainerd, MN. After retiring from farming, the couple lived in Swanville and Long Prairie. Hap died May 19, 1997. After his death, Dorothy went to work as a live-in companion and housekeeper in several locations. Dorothy enjoyed helping her husband make diamond willow and other woodcrafts, cooking, embroidering, and watching the Twins. She had a sense of adventure and took many long road trips with friends, as well as by herself. She enjoyed telling stories, having fun while hunting, fishing and trapping. Dorothy played thousands of games of cribbage in her lifetime, in the latter years with a small loyal group of friends that would come over on Saturdays. She loved visiting others and having visitors, parting ways after many laughs.

Dorothy remained active with the Little Falls Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She loved the weekly Bible study meetings and was known for having her lessons studied beforehand so she could actively participate in the discussions. She enjoyed preaching the good news of God‘s Kingdom, keeping notes of the friends she was with so she could look back on those good memories. As she got older, she continued faithfully preaching by handwriting encouraging letters to people in the community.

Dorothy will be missed by many, many friends who became family. She was endeared by the staff of Highland Senior Living and St. Croix Hospice. They enjoyed caring for her as much as she enjoyed their company.

Mathew Kasper

Faith, family, farming and friendship were the guideposts of life for Mathew Kasper of Sauk Centre who transitioned to eternal rest with our Lord on September 6, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, September 12, 2025 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Spring Hill with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. There will be visitation from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Friday at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Spring Hill. Interment will be at St. Andrew’s Cemetery in Greenwald.

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with a rosary beginning at 3 p.m.

Mathew was born on May 13, 1982, the first child of Earl and Linda Kasper. He grew up on a farm in St. Michael where he also attended the Catholic School until 6th grade. He went on to graduate from St. Michael Albertville High School in 2001. Mathew never shied away from hard work, he had many jobs as a young man, working for local farmers, welding at Standard Iron and most dear to his heart, working for his grandpa at Dennis Fehn Sand and Gravel operating heavy equipment.

Mathew married the love of his life Bridget Ende on January 21, 2006, at St. Walburga Catholic Church in Fletcher, MN. God blessed their marriage with seven beautiful children: Gretta, Sophia, Leo, Lydia, Joe, Clara, and Eli. They worked incredibly hard to create an amazing life together. Aside from his children and his wife, Mathew’s greatest passion was being a farmer and working beside his family every day. He truly was gifted in caring for animals and the land.

In his role as a husband and father, Mathew was attentive, gentle, loving, and fun. It’s important to remember that Mathew also had a very quick wit, with a hilarious sense of humor. He was an incredibly generous soul, a friend who never hesitated to lend a hand.

Most importantly, Mathew led his family with his example of faith and integrity. He was a devout member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Greenwald. Throughout his cancer battle and challenges, Mathew never wavered in his trust in God. He never complained about the cross he was given to bear, only planning and preparing to ensure his family would be cared for when he embarked on the next part of his journey.

While his time with us was far too short, his memory and legacy will live on in all the lives he touched, especially in the spirits of his cherished children. We are so grateful and blessed to have known and loved Mathew. We will hold his sacred memory in our hearts and look forward to the time we will see him again.

Mathew is survived by his loving wife of 19 years Bridget (Ende) Kasper, his beautiful children Gretta, Sophia, Leo, Lydia, Clara and Eli. His parents Earl and Linda Kasper, siblings Patrick (Joni) Kasper, Bridget (Les) Hansen, Richard Kasper, Luke (Kari) Kasper. Grandmothers Virginia Kasper and Bertha Fehn. Many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He is further survived by his in-laws, the Ende and Brunelle Families.

Mathew is preceded in death by his infant son Joe. Grandfathers Lewis Kasper and Dennis Fehn, Uncle Gary Kasper, Cousin Maria (Fehn) Tilbury, Father-in-law John Ende, and Sister-inLaw Allison Ende.

Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.

David E. “Rocky” Walz

David E.

“Rocky” Walz, age 71, of Greenwald, passed away surrounded by family from natural causes on September 7, 2025, at the CentraCare Hospital in Melrose, Minnesota.

A private family memorial service will be held on Thursday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose. Inurnment will be at St. Andrew’s Cemetery in Greenwald.

David Edwin Walz was born June 9, 1954 in Melrose, Minnesota to Walter and Leona (Worms) Walz. He graduated from Melrose High School in 1972. David lived on the family farm near Greenwald all his life and was a member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Greenwald.

Rocky enjoyed watching sports on TV and hearing updates of his great nephew Zach’s high school sporting events.

Survivors include his sisters, Clarine Beier of Greenwald, Anita (Steve) Burg of St. Martin, and Deb (Pat) Keller of Greenwald; brother-inlaw, Eldred Lieser of Paynesville; 16 nieces and nephews; many great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

Rocky was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Daniel Walz; sister, Marilyn Lieser; and brother-in-law, Ron Beier.

Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.

Jeffrey Scott Westerbeck

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Jeffrey Scott Westerbeck, age 61, on September 6, 2025.

Jeff was born in Grand Island, Nebraska, on April 24, 1964, to Larry Westerbeck and LaVonne Shelker. He grew up in Bloomington, Minnesota, and graduated with the final class to attend Lincoln High School. He later earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.

Throughout his life, Jeff lived in many places—Nebraska, Minnesota, Ohio, Virginia, Texas, and eventually returned to Minnesota— forming lasting friendships wherever he went. He had a beautiful singing voice and a deep love for music. Playing guitar and singing gave him, and those lucky enough to hear him, great joy.

Jeff’s passion for cars and motorcycles began at an early age. He enjoyed working on engines and driving anything with wheels. He was also a talented cook and a lifelong watch collector.

He is survived by his mother, LaVonne Shelker; stepmother, Jane Westerbeck; siblings, Julie Westerbeck Suemitsu (Tomo), Todd Westerbeck (Maria), Seri Westerbeck, Karl Westerbeck, Sharon Dierling (Ed), and Carla Shelker; nieces and nephews, Tony, Jennifer and Jacob Westerbeck; Monica, Lynn and Emily Suemitsu.

Jeff is preceded in death by his father, Larry Westerbeck; grandparents, Ed and Irene Ehresman, and Lyle and Carol Westerbeck; and his beloved Chancy.

Though Jeff’s journey on this earth has ended, the memories he created and the love he shared will continue to echo in the lives he touched. His spirit remains with us—in every song, every engine rev, and every moment of quiet reflection.

“What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” — Helen Keller

Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.

Stan Mensen, on behalf of the Grey Eagle/Swanville Knights of Cplmbus, Council #14616 presented Kelly Andreasen, President of the Little Sauk Legion Auxiliary a check for $100. It will be used for sewing supplies for the laundry bags, grocery bags, school bag and wheel chair bags they make for the veterans at the St. Cloud VA. Submitted by Cindy Mensen.

Ida Elizabeth Pung

Ida Elizabeth Pung, age 96, passed away Monday, August 25, 2025 at The Blake in Bossier City, Louisiana.

Visitation will be from 9:3010:30 a.m. Saturday, September 20th at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday followed by burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose.

Ida Elizabeth Hinnenkamp was born January 5, 1929 in Melrose Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to Frank and Elizabeth (Schmiesing) Hinnenkamp. She grew up the second youngest of 13 children. On April 14, 1949 she was united in marriage to Frank C. Pung in Arkansas.

Ida was a lifetime member of the VFW and American Legion Post 101 in Melrose, Minnesota.

Survivors include her children, Beverly Gerard of Waynesboro, Virginia, Gary Pung of Plain Dealing, Louisiana, MaryJane McKendry of McAllen, Texas, Janine Pung of Chanhassen, Minnesota; 4 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; and sister, Jeanette Zehrer of Melrose.

Ida was preceded in death by her husband, Frank C. Pung on January 15, 2013; parents; daughter, Cheryle Mersy; brothers and sisters, Leona Blenker, Lydia Beuning, Mary Ann Tooley, Ernest Hinnenkamp, Hubert Hinnenkamp, Fred Hinnenkamp, Jim Hinnenkamp, Lillian Hinnenkamp, Irene Athmann, Monica Hinnenkamp, and Sylvester Hinnenkamp.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.

Weather Safety Network Expands with New Weather Stations and Anemometers

Pictured are: Emergency Manager Erin Hughes, Commissioner Tarryl Clark, Commissioner Jeff Bertram, Commissioner Joe Perske, Public Safety Foundation Executive Director Jenifer Odette, Commissioner Steve Notch, and Public Safety Foundation Board Chair Ken Bellicot.

Pulse on People

Leoma Ludwig of Holdingford has been named to Southern New Hampshire University’s (SNHU) Summer 2025 President’s List.

The summer terms run from May to August. Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.

Back to School Safety

By Cassandra Ortiz, General Crime and Child Abuse Services Coordinator, Hands

of Hope Resource Center- Todd County

As the back-to-school season begins, it can bring excitement as well as challenges. The first few days can be hectic for both students and faculty, therefore, it’s important to go over school safety tips and regulations to ensure a safe return and school year. Here are a few tips that discuss physical safety as well as emotional safety:

School Safety Protocols: Students should be familiar with safety protocols and programs in place and how to use them in emergency situations such as evacuations, lockdowns, and mental health and medical emergencies.

Regular check-ins: For parents, keeping open communication with children to address issues before they escalate for example, talking about activities at school, situations that make them feel anxious, scared, or uncomfortable, their feelings about relationships with friends, teachers, coaches, neighbors, etc. Parents should also consider monitoring their children’s social media activity and have open conversations about online safety.

Body Safety and Boundaries: According to the YMCA, body safety is the concept of teaching children how to protect themselves from inappropriate touch or unwelcome behavior from others. This may include teaching children about private parts, appropriate touch, and personal boundaries. Parents should practice discussing body safety, personal boundaries, and consent. For younger children, it is important to learn body autonomy to identify parts of their body that are private.

Back-to-school season is an exciting transition, by implementing these safety tips and regulations, you can help ensure your child is taking adequate steps to keep themselves safe.

If you are a victim of a crime or would like more information regarding school safety, please contact Hands of Hope Resource Center at (320)-732-2319.

Stearns County Emergency Management is partnering with the Public Safety Foundation to strengthen local weather monitoring and emergency preparedness. The Foundation is funding the installation of ten additional weather stations around Stearns County and providing anemometers for all public safety departments across the County. This $2,000 project is fully funded by the Foundation at no cost to taxpayers.

The new weather stations will build on the existing network of eight, currently located in St. Cloud (two stations), Holdingford, St. Stephen, Richmond, Paynesville, New Munich, and Greenwald. New stations will be installed in Belgrade, Brooten, Sauk Centre, Melrose, Freeport, Albany, Kimball, St. Augusta, Cold Spring, and St. Martin, expanding localized coverage and improving the County’s ability to monitor severe weather in real time.

Weather stations are equipped with sensors that collect data such as wind speed and direction, temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, and precipitation. This information is essential for first responders and emergency planners to make quick, informed decisions during potentially severe weather events. Ane-

mometers, a key component of this project, are instruments designed to measure wind speed and sometimes direction. Accurate wind measurements are critical for understanding storm conditions, assessing hazards, and sharing reliable information with the National Weather Service for warnings and alerts.

This investment enhances the County’s ability to gather hyper-local weather data, improves decision-making when severe weather strikes, and supports faster, more accurate public warnings. It reflects the strong partnership between the Public Safety Foundation, Emergency Management, first responders, and the National Weather Service in keeping our communities safe.

The County looks forward to continued collaboration with all partners to ensure readiness and safety when severe weather impacts our area.

Todays Thought

I’m giving up eating chocolate for a month. Oh, wait, sorry, bad punctuation. I meant, I’m giving up. Eating chocolate for a month.

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, Our daughter is 27, and she’s been married for three years. We’ve been helping her and her husband financially quite often the whole time they’ve been married, and we’re afraid this isn’t going to end anytime soon. They both have decent jobs, and we don’t have any idea where their money goes. Lately, they have even tried to guilt us into giving them money by saying they’re afraid if we don’t help them that our granddaughter might have to go without things. We’re not sure how to stop this behavior. Do you have any ideas?

-Danielle

Dear Danielle,

I know this is a tough situation for you and your husband. It hurts your heart to think about that grandbaby going without something she needs. But let’s get real here. It’s way past time your daughter, and your son-in-law, learned how to manage money like responsible adults. I don’t know how much you two tried to teach her about finances when she was growing up, but it sure sounds to me like this “needing help” is turning into an endless cycle.

You’re giving them money left and right, and it’s pretty obvious it’s not working. You’re giving them fish. I’m sure you’ve heard that old saying, right? Let’s flip the script. You

could teach them to fish, and that would mean not giving them anymore fish. Honestly? I think there’s a better way. What if you give them fish only if they take fishing lessons? By this, I mean they get no more money from you unless they go to financial counseling together, and make a serious move toward straightening up their lives.

They’ve figured out if they manipulate your feelings, you’re going to cut them a check. They’re playing you right now. So, if they try that again, maybe by saying they’re afraid your granddaughter might go to bed without dinner, tell them to send her over to your place for a good, homecooked meal. If they complain about running out of money before payday, tell them to go to their financial counseling sessions to learn how to fix the issue.

Right now, every time they have a problem they call mom and dad. But here’s the thing. They don’t really have a problem as long as you folks keep doing what you’re doing. Love them well, and be kind, but serious. Let them know you’re not going to give them any more money unless they go to financial counseling sessions together—regularly. Tell them if they’ll do this, and turn in a budget to you, so you and your husband can help coach them on how to be adults and handle their money better, that you’ll set up a matching system for any money they save.

Of course, a matching plan wouldn’t be a permanent thing. But if you gently and firmly lead them toward a different way of thinking and behaving with money, and provide encouragement and a little positive reinforcement now and then, you might just begin to see things change.

-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,

We purchased a two-year-old Ford Truck that has the flex fuel option.

I’ve never owned a flex fuel vehicle so I read the owner’s manual and at your suggestion went to fueleconomy.gov to get an idea of what kind of mileage it should get. They claim about five mpg more than what we are getting. The truck was a lease vehicle and has about 70,000 miles which seems high for two years, but they say it was taken care of. What can we do to improve the fuel economy? 10 mpg on the highway for most of the time using E-85 seems very low. Your answers are always appreciated.

-Darren in Lemmon, SD

Dear Darren,

Driving the truck primarily on the highway and assuming it’s in perfect tune, you are not carrying extra weight, and you are using E-85 ethanol fuel, it should be about right. With 70,000 miles on the truck, even though they claim it has been well taken care of, it likely has not had much work done in the way of tuning. It’s two years old, it just doesn’t happen much. Without a fuel system cleaning you can lose a couple mpg and using E-85 will take much more. Being flex fuel you can use a blend. If available, try 30% and check the mileage. That percentage has resulted in an increase for many of our customers with flex fuel vehicles over E-85 or nothing.

-Take care, the Motor Medics Dear Motor Medics,

I’m thinking of buying a Saturn Vue. It’s got some miles but is a very nice vehicle. There’s only one thing that’s keeping me from it and that’s because they’re no longer in business. This holds true for other companies as well, but they were bigger. If I buy this thing and I need to have it worked on, will they be

able to find parts for it? It’s a great deal but not if I must park it because I can’t fix it. What do you guys think?

-Todd in Yankton, SD

Dear Todd,

Yes, Saturn is gone but this vehicle shares many of the common drivetrain parts with other vehicles and the aftermarket makes many commonly used parts for popular vehicles, so you don’t have to rely solely on the manufacturer. For most unique parts like body and interior that are still available you would purchase them through a GM store. Many companies that are still in business today have discontinued less popular parts to save money and they can be tricky to find. Popularity commonly drives what is available. We have found ourselves looking for parts on a three-year-old vehicle that is out of warranty and at times just could not come up with a new part. In most cases we were able to find a good used part as an option and get the customer going and save them some money as well.

-Take care, the Motor Medics For entertainment only. Always consult your local shop and follow all safety procedures before repairs. Come visit the Motor Medics® online at Underthehoodshow. com.

Local Municipality Minutes

Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com

Swanville City • August 5, 2025

The Public Hearing was opened at 6:45 pm. Members present: Sandy Lange via zoom, Norm Carlson, Carter Loven, Jim Molitor and Tony Maciej. Also, present Steve Gruber and reporter Sheila McCoy. The purpose of this hearing is to have public input on Ordinance #25-0805 stating an amendment to the City of Swanville Zoning code Section 5.9 to allow Daycare Centers as a conditional use in the Low, Medium and High Density Residential and Public Use District. All present was in favor of the amendment. Hearing was then closed.

Minutes of the Swanville City Council meeting held in the Swanville Center on Tuesday, August 8, 2025. The meeting called to order 7:00 p.m. with the following members present: Sandy Lange via zoom, Norm Carlson, Carter Loven, Tony Maciej and Jim Molitor. Also present: Steve Gruber, Ryan Odden, Randy Drayna and reporter Sheila McCoy.

Minutes of the Swanville City Council meeting held Tuesday, July 8, 2025 was reviewed. A motion was made by Norm Carlson to approve the minutes. Jim Molitor seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.

The treasures report was given. A motion was made by Tony Maciej and seconded Jim Molitor to approve the treasurer’s report. All members voted in favor, motion carried.

Floor was opened for public comment-no comments.

Ryan Odden, city engineer, was present and gave a report on the city projects. Water Storage Tank will have more dirt around the outside and the building is completed. Interior will be worked on now. MN Power will be out and working on the building possibly by Friday. Ryan informed the

Sauk Centre Library • 320-352-3016

Awesome Autumn Storytime: teach listening comprehension, letter recognition, and vocabulary. Enjoy time with your child while building a foundation for reading success while having fun! For ages 3 to 8 and their families. Limit 24. Registration required. Thursday, Sept. 18: 6-6:45 p.m.

Open Mic/Music Jam Session: For adults and teens. *Please note September’s gathering will be held offsite in Sinclair Lewis Park at the Rotary Shelter for the “Time Traveler’s Trek,” with the library as a rain location.* Saturday, Sept. 20: 2:30-3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23: 5-7:00 p.m.

Time Traveler’s Trek - Magician: Time Traveler’s Trek is a new community event for the city of Sauk Centre. The purpose of the event is to have fun while experiencing historic places in Sauk Centre, historic music and dances, historic games, and learn the history of some of the notable people who have called Sauk Centre home. Prepare to be mesmerized by incredible illusions that will leave you spellbound. Sponsored by the Friends of the Sinclair Lewis Library of Sauk Centre. Offsite location: Sauk Centre Bandshell in Sinclair Lewis Park (In case of rain, the event will be held at the library) Saturday, Sept. 20: 2:45 p.m.

Swanville Library • 320-547-2346

Mosaic Pumpkin: Celebrate fall with a creative twist! Join mosaic artist Laura Ruprecht of Laura Liz Mosaic Biz to create your own stained glass mosaic pumpkin—perfect for Halloween or autumn décor. In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn to cut and adhere stained glass to a 12” wooden pumpkin backer. All materials provided, including a take-home grout bag to finish your masterpiece! For ages 10 and up. Limit 10. This program was made possible with Arts & Cultural Heritage Funds from Minnesota’s Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment. Thursday, Sept. 18: 4:30-7:00 p.m.

Upsala Library • 320-412-2048

Dried Floral Wreath: Learn how to make lovely dried fall floral wreath with Stacey Supan. All materials provided. Limit 10. Registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Upsala Public Library. Saturday, Sept. 20: 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.

Between the Covers Book Club: Join “Between the Covers” book club for adults on the fourth Monday of every month. Refreshments are sometimes provided. Stop in for a copy of the book in print or audiobook (when available) ahead of time. Mondays, Sept. 22 & Oct. 27: 5-6:00 p.m.

council there needs to be a Public Hearing preferably before the next council meeting to inform residents of the Storage Tank progress. Council was in agreement to have a Public Hearing at 6:30 pm before the September council meeting.

North Berkey 1st Addition: Greater MN Gas and Sytek lines have been installed. MN Power will start work this Friday or next week for sure.

Water main project: water lines complete, roads will have final layer in September. There was much discussion on 4th Street with the road not being sloped in the right direction. Moore Engineering will cover approach changes and apartment entrance curb. Sixth Street has no curb and gutter on the south side of the road. Mayor Lange will go to the Swanville Township meeting to see if they will pay for the south side of the road cement work or possible tar bump.

There will be a drive through with council and Moore Engineering on the City Projects on August 11 at 10:00 am.

A land use permit was submitted from Roxanne Buchanan at 502 DeGraff Ave, to replace the deck on the west side of her house. Jim Molitor made a motion to give Buchanan a land use permit to replace the deck. Carter Loven seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.

Randy Drayna was present to ask council to replace the culvert in the ditch near his property on Forest Hill Lane. A new culvert was estimated at $7200.00. Council tabled until they look over the ditch.

Ordinance #25-0805 for Zoning Ordinance Amendment to Section 5.9 of the Swanville Zoning Code to allow Daycare Centers as a conditional use in the Low, Medium and High density residential and Public Use District. Jim Molitor made a motion to accept Ordinance #25-0805. Norm Carlson seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion caried.

Mayor Lange presented council with a letter from the Initiative Foundation seeking a contribution for 2026. After discussion Jim Molitor made a motion to contribute to the Initiative Foundation $600.00. Carter Loven seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.

The Swanville School inquired about a “Your Speed is” sign on Balcony Road. Lonny will check this out with the Highway Department and return with more information. Tabled Cannabis interest in the old RotoMolding building in the Industrial Park was discussed. Office of Cannabis Management has not got in contact with the city. Tabled

There have been numerous complaints about

The Art Of Conversation, Upsala

By Steve Weihsmann

The Art of Conversation gallery in Upsala is featuring the work of local artist Jim Flaa during the month of September. Jim has been doing work in watercolor, acrylic, pen and ink, and graphite for three decades and has some amazing pieces on display. Most are for sale. He has a keen eye for detail and uses vibrant colors. Come for the exhibit and enjoy a cup of coffee while visiting the gallery, which is located at 105 S. Main, Suite 2 in Upsala. Hours are Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 6-8 pm and Saturday 10 am- 2 pm (new hours coming in October).

Albany Senior Dining

Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070

Mon., Sept. 15: Breaded salmon, oven roasted potatoes, cream peas, bread, cake. Tues., Sept. 16: Flatbread chicken alfredo pizza, corn, brownie.

Wed., Sept. 17: Swedish meatballs over noodles, mixed vegetables, pineapple, bread, Jell-O.

Thurs., Sept. 18: Bouja, sandwich, fruit cocktail, pie. Fri., Sept. 19: Macaroni & cheese beef brisket, broccoli, spiced apples, bread. Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.

long grass, garbage and dogs barking at 401 Berkey Avenue. The city attorney will be contacted about the complaints.

The Swanville Rural Fire Association annual meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 8:00 pm. There will be a city council meeting before the Association meeting at 7:30 pm in the Swanville Center to discuss and possibly give a conditional use permit to Grace Rahn to put a Day Care in the basement of the educational building by the Lutheran Church.

The following claims were presented for payment. Members of the council were furnished with a listing. Jim Molitor made a motion to approve the claims. Carter Loven seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.

The next regular monthly meeting will be held Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 7:00 pm in the Swanville Center with the Public Hearing taking place at 6:30 pm for the water storage tank project.

There being no further business, a motion was made by Carter Loven and seconded by Jim Molitor to adjourn. All members voted in favor, motion carried. Meeting adjourned 9:05 pm.

Julie Hollermann, City Clerk/Treasurer

Swanville City • August 26, 2025

Special Meeting: Members present: Sany Lange, Carter Loven, Norm Carlson and Tony Maciej. Absent: Jim Molitor. Also present: Grace

Rahn

Grace Rahn would like to put a Family Child Care business in the downstairs of the St. Peter’s Luteran Educational Building. Bottom half of the building will be considered commercial. This would need to have a Conditional Use Permit for this business. Tony Maciej made a motion to give Grace Rahn a Conditional Use Permit for the Daycare business. Carter Loven seconded the motion. All members present voted in favor, motion carried.

The meeting was moved to the Swanville Rural Fire Association meeting in the fire hall. The 2025-2026 budget was discussed. It was decided to set at $65,000.00 the same as last year.

Meeting adjourned 8:25 pm

Julie Hollermann, City Clerk/Treasurer

A Frozen Funny

I have my own system for labeling homemade freezer meals.

Forget calling them “Veal Parmigiana” or “Turkey Loaf” or “Beef Pot Pie.”

If you look in my freezer you’ll see “Whatever,” “Anything,” “I Don’t Know,” and, my favorite, “Food.”

That way when I ask my husband what he wants for dinner, I’m certain to have what he wants.”

NOW HIRING!

Proliant Dairy Ingredients (Premier Drying Plant) is accepting applications for a full-time position in Melrose, MN

Maintenance

Tech II Stainless Steel Welding experience preferred, not required 7AM - 5PM Competitive

FOUND: On Sat., Sept 6, fishing gear between Swan Lake and Long Lake. Must identify. Call 320-3333215.

• 10 Hour Shifts, 4 Days/Wk

• 1 On Call Evening Per Week and Every 4th Weekend

• Full Benefits First of the Month following hire date

WANTED: Person to cut & bale hay, Burtrum area. Call 320573-3939. 9/11

• Full Benefits First of the Month following hire date

• 401(K) with Generous Match

• Annual Employee Bonus Incentive

To apply,visit www.proliantdairy.com and click on “Careers” Successful completion of pre-employment physical and drug test required

WANTED: Geo Tracker, good shape, reasonable price. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn

WANTED TO BUY: Dairy Heifers and Cows. 320-894-7175. SC-evB

GARAGE SALE: 34876 State Hwy 28, Swanville. Sept. 12-14: 9am-?

HUGE MULTI FAMILY: Maple Lake Association Garage Sale, Long Prairie, Sept 18 & 19: 9AM-6PM; Sept 20: 9AM-Noon. Sporting goods, tools, furniture, housewares, toys, games, linens, antiques, pictures, decor. 18854 Hwy 27 (pole barn NW of intersection Todd Cty11 & MN27).

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: 1983 Ford Mustang GLX convertible, 60,000 miles, automatic, white w/ white leather interior, 3.8L, V6, kept in garage, excellent condition, $8,500. Call 320766-3119. DC-tfn

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: Vibo boat lift, canopy cover needs replacement, $700 or BO. Call 320766-3119. DC-tfn

FOR SALE: Tire 235/R17 new on 5 hole, $60. Call 612-283-2718.

FOR SALE: 5.5 hp. Johnson outboard motor, runs great. Call 320-260-4551.

FOR SALE: 8x20 Berkon fish house, all hydraulic, TV, Dish, AC, $22,500 or B/O. Call 320-232-0211. 9/25

FOR SALE: Victory 10 mobility scooter, battery powered, purchased May 20, 2024 for $2,500 used very little now I can no longer physically use it. Make an offer $1,600 minimum. Includes fabric cover. Call 320760-1162. 9/25

FOR SALE: Sofa sleeper in excellent condition, tan rocking chair very nice. Call 218478-4721.

FOR SALE: Fontanini Xmas figurines, 25 total in original boxes, some retired pieces, $75. Call 320-259-1498.

Grey Eagle/Burtrum Lions Club is collecting old glasses, phones and hearing aids to refurbish and distribute around the world. If you have any please drop off at Neville Hardware, Grey Eagle.