Hometown News April 13, 2023

This picture was taken last Thursday morning, April 6th, after all the rain, ice pellets and wind. It formed icicle crystals! Submitted by Amanda Schulte, Avon, MN.

Hometown News

29442 120th St.

Grey Eagle, MN 56336

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Published By John and Lori Young

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Good, better, best. Never let it rest -By Harvey Mackay

The truly great athletes often focus on an area where they can improve and work on it to get better in the offseason. But there is no off-season in business, so any time is a good time to examine how we can improve in our professional lives. These are some of the areas I regularly look at.

Get better organized. I am a habitual packrat. My filing system is piles one pile for each project. And that’s a lot of piles. I like to joke that I never lose anything; I just misplace things. But I am vowing to do better in 2023. And if I can do it, anyone can do it.

Eliminate or reduce distractions. Productivity’s number one enemy is interruptions. Set aside a period of time each day – even if it’s only 10 minutes – when you are unavailable for anything less than a four-alarm fire. That goes for office visitors, telephone calls, email and carrier pigeons. There is also the option of coming to work early or staying late.

Read more and embrace learning. People’s lives change in two ways – the books they read and the people they meet, according to a fellow member of the National Speakers Association, Charles “Tremendous” Jones. I’ve always said that libraries are an untapped gold mine. Your computer, tablet or phone offer unlimited reading options. Knowledge is power. Build deeper relationships. You can take all my money! You can take all my factories! You can take all my land! But leave me my network

of relationships, and I’ll be back to where I was today in three to five short years. I’ve worked constantly to build relationships. It has served me every day of my life in ways I could never have imagined.

Volunteer. When you volunteer, you always get back more than you give. Volunteering has made my life so much better, and I suspect that anyone who has become passionate about a cause will tell you the same thing. People who do volunteer work are inclined to be go-getters and consistently report being happier and more contented. It doesn’t matter whether you are young or old, student or professional, working your way up or at the top of your game. Needs abound wherever you are. Don’t just make a living, make a life worth living.

Practice humility. As Will Rogers used to say, get someone else to blow your horn and the sound will carry twice as far. Humility is not difficult to practice. It doesn't involve downplaying your achievements. It doesn't mean that you won't be recognized for your contributions. It does mean that you realize that others have been involved in your success, and you are prepared to be involved in theirs. You start by giving credit where it is due. The coworkers who participated in the early stages of a project surely deserve some recognition, and the folks who mopped the floors and kept the lights on so you could work late are team players too.

Find role models or teachers you can learn from. Mentoring can change your life – and theirs. Mentoring means helping less experienced people observe, experiment and evaluate different ways of doing work to find out which strategies work best. And the benefits are not limited to young people. People of all ages can gain from the guidance of a more experienced person, even someone younger than you. A mentor can help even experienced managers boost their job performance and

advance their career. And remember, mentors change over a lifetime.

Set a goal and work toward it. Ask any successful CEO, superstar athlete or winning person what their keys to success are, and you will hear four consistent messages: vision, determination, persistence and setting goals. Set your goals for the year, for the decade or for the rest of your life. After all, if you don’t set goals to determine where you’re going, how will you know when you get there?

Follow your passion. Passion is at the top of the list of the skills you need to excel at whether you’re in sports, sales or any other occupation. When you have passion, you speak with conviction, act with authority and present with zeal. If you don’t have a deep-down, intense, burning desire for what you are doing, there’s no way you’ll be able to work the long, hard hours it takes to become successful.

Mackay’s Moral: Even the best work hard to get better.

Reprinted with permission from nationally syndicated columnist Harvey Mackay, author of the New York Times #1 bestseller “Swim With The Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive,” “We Got Fired!...And It’s the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Us,” “The Mackay MBA of Selling in the Real World,” and “Use Your Head To Get Your Foot In The Door.”

Upcoming Events

THURSDAY, APRIL 13

• City of Melrose Open House from 5-7 p.m. at the Melrose City Center.

THURS.-SUN., APRIL 13-16

• Melrose Stages, Inc. Presents "Sister Act" at the Marit Elliott Performing Arts Center, Melrose. Thurs.-Sat. at 7:30; Sun. at 2 p.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 16

• Spring Fundraiser starting at 11 a.m. at St. John's Church Basement-Meire Grove See ad on page 3.

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

• Earth Day Celebration from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Gathering Grounds Coffee Shop, Avon.

• Moses Dane Cemetery Association Annual Meeting at 1:30 p.m. at the Burtrum Community Center.

SUNDAY, APRIL 23

• Spring Music Showcase at 2 p.m. at the Grey Eagle United Methodist Church. See ad on page 5.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26

• Grey Eagle Senior Citizens Meeting at 4 p.m. with potluck & Bingo.

THURSDAY, APRIL 27

• Upsala Area Historical Society Board Meeting 6:30 p.m. at the Community Center.

SATURDAY, APRIL 29

• Upsala Cooperative Telephone Association Annual Meeting at 10 a.m. at the Community Covenant Church, Upsala.

SUNDAY, APRIL 30

• 51st Annual Swanycake & Sausage Supper from 3-8:30 p.m. at St. Anthony Parish.

If you have

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3

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

THURSDAY, MAY 4

• MN State Capitol Historic Renovation Tour. See ad on page 5.

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.

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 at 7 p.m. on the 2nd Monday of the month 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 first Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

Weekend Weather

“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne

Farm Retirement

During the last years, there has been many smaller dairy farms being taken over by larger farms. In many cases, the farm buildings were taken down and the previous owner moved to a dwelling space in town.

Moving away from the farm place created a really big change for the farmer. He had probably spent up to the last 40 years improving the buildings, to create a more efficient way to perform the many facets that were needed to improve the operation. He now sees many of the improvements that were special in his mind, being eliminated. The fences, sheds, hay storage buildings, shops and probably the main dairy barn will no longer be needed. The machinery that had given the farmer a feeling of joy when originally purchased, needed to be sold and removed from the property. No longer needed.

The usual work schedule began at 5:00 AM, followed by a couple of hours of dairy work. After breakfast, the morning hours were spent doing field work if it was in season, or throwing down silage, feeding cows, young stock, pigs or chickens. If it worked into the schedule, manure was hauled or feed ground.

The afternoon was spent finishing up the work that was left over from the morning. At about 4:30 PM, there was feeding to be done again along with cleaning the mangers and carrying the leftover hay to the young stock. After supper the cows needed to be milked, calves fed and the night's supply of hay needed to be fed to the cows. It's now about 7:30 PM and if

Community Chorus Showcase Musical Talent April 23

By Robert Kutter

The Grey Eagle Community Chorus will host a spring music showcase Sunday, April 23 at 2 p.m. at the Grey Eagle United Methodist Church, 30422 County 2.

Talented musicians from the area will present a variety of spiritual and secular music for your enjoyment. Both vocalist and instrumentalists will perform, including the Grey Eagle Community Handbell Choir. Gather some friends and enjoy an afternoon of music. Admission is free.

From the Desk of Pastor Bruce

it is summer hours, the next couple of hours were spent in the field. Usually by 9:30 PM it was time to get to the house and go to bed.

The farmer that had been working all of those hours looks forward to having the same long day tomorrow and the next day. He didn't work in town, where he looked forward to working 40 hours that week, followed by two days off on the weekend. He became very accustomed to working long days and also working the weekend. His mind becomes convinced that he can't make the farm profitable if he doesn't put that much time into it. It becomes the most important reason for living, even sometimes taking priority over his family. Was it profitable or not? He needed to work around weather changes that he had no ability to control, which sometimes caused the economic factors to collapse.

So now this farmer that had been working long hours, seven days per week and for 40 years needs to retire and move to town. There certainly are less needed hours, doing much less physical labor. He doesn't realize it, but he is beginning to notice that the less exercise is making the waste line to expand. His blood pressure now needs attention. He is just not accustomed to his new life. He may take up fishing or do some traveling, which will help make the retirement easier. However, as all of us mature individuals know, a lot of the traveling will be done to and from the doctor.

Retirement from the farm is not always as gloomy, but some planning and research ahead of time, can make it more enjoyable and rewarding.

For feedback or story ideas, email Tom at tom@swanvilleinsurance.com.

If you need help with Health or Life Insurance or for Senior Health Solutions Contact: Tom Kuehne 320-360-0343

ALL STARS

HORSE RACES & Meat Raffle

Friday, April 14

Corner Pub & Grill

Freeport, MN • 320-836-2120

Nightly Specials

Dine In Only - With Beverage Purchase

Monday: (5-9 pm) $3 Build a Burger Mayo, Lettuce, Tomato, Onions (raw/fried), Mushrooms, Jalapenos, Sauerkraut, Cheese (Swiss, American, Pepper Jack)

Toppings 50¢ each; Bacon 50¢ Slice

Tuesday: (5-9 pm) Choice of:

3 Chicken Strips w/Toast & Fries $7.50

6 Drummies w/Toast & Fries $7.50

Walleye Wednesday: (5-9:30 pm)

Walleye Fingers w/Fries $8.50

Lunch Specials: 11 AM-1 PM

Fri., Apr. 14: Cheeseburger w/Chili or Fries

Mon., Apr. 17: Chicken Wild Rice Soup w/Chicken Sandwich

Tues., Apr. 18: Baked Chicken Dinner

Wed., Apr. 19: Hamburger Hot Dish

Have you ever been at a business meeting and maybe things didn’t go as smooth as you would have hoped? After the meeting has been adjourned you notice several groups of people discussing the agenda of the meeting. I call that “The meeting, after the meeting."

This same sort of thing happened after Jesus’ Resurrection. Two men were walking home after the events of Easter morning. Emmaus was seven miles from Jerusalem and they talked about the events of the last three days as they walked. Somewhere in the middle, Jesus came along side and took part in their conversation. After listening for some time, Jesus asked what they were discussing as they walked. They were shocked that He knew nothing of the events of the last three days.

The two men went on to tell Jesus, about Jesus, strange I know. They mentioned how they had hoped that He would deliver them from Rome and that He was powerful in word and deed. When they had finished Jesus began to teach them about Moses and the prophets and what was in Scriptures, concerning Himself. When they got to Emmaus, they invited Jesus to come in and eat with them. As they began to eat, He took the bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave them some. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him. Jesus immediately disappeared from their sight.

Luke 24:32 “They asked each other, Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scrip-

Spring Fundraiser

Sunday, April 16, 2023

St. John’s Church Basement, Meire Grove

Bake Sale & Free Lunch • 11 AM BINGO • 12-Noon

10 games $20.00

Parish Raffle Drawing 1:00 pm

$20/Ticket

$2000.00 Grand Prize & More

tures to us?”

I am wondering, how many of your hearts burn after the things of Jesus? Do you desire to spend time with Him? If no, not really, then maybe I can encourage you to open His Word (start with the Gospels) and let Him speak to you.

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

Earth Day Celebration April 22

An Earth Day Celebration will take place on Saturday, April 22, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Gathering Grounds Coffee Shop in Avon. Come together as a community to celebrate our beautiful planet.

There will be kids’ activities, give-always, local products and educational materials. A little something for everyone!

WEEKEND SPECIALS

Includes Salad Bar & Choice of Potato

SATURDAY: 5-9 PM

• Prime Rib $22.95

• Ribs $18.95

• Deep Fried Walleye $15.95

• Creamy Sweet Chili

Thurs., Apr. 20: Liver & Onions

Fri., Apr. 21: Cheeseburger w/Chili or Fries

Thursday Wraps: (5-9 pm) Choice of: Grilled Chicken $9.00; Crispy Chicken $8.50; Buffalo Chicken $8.50; Taco $8.50; Philly Steak $8.50

Friday: (5-9 pm) Choice of:

Saturday: (4-8 pm) 1/4 lb. Hamburger $2.50 Toppings

w/Breadsticks

MONDAY: 5-8 PM $3 Off 14"

Chicken, Wild Rice, w/Breadsticks $12.95

WEDNESDAY: 11 AM-9 PM

• 1-1/2 lb. Wings $8.00

• $6 Baskets Your Choice: Shrimp Basket, Angus Slider Basket, 1/4 Chicken Basket, Nachos or Quesadillas w/Beverage Purchase Specials to go $1.00 charge

SUNDAY: 3-8 PM

• Steak & Shrimp $19.95

• 10 oz. Pork Chop $13.95

• 1/2 Chicken $10.50

• 1/4 Chicken $8.50

THURSDAY: 5-9 PM Includes Salad Bar & Choice of Potato

• Chicken & Ribs $15.95

• 8 oz. Ground Sirloin $13.95

• Creamy Sweet Chili Haddock w/Wild Rice $15.95

Obituaries

Mildred H. Nienaber

Mildred H. “Millie” Nienaber, age 84 of Freeport, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 5 at the CentraCare Care Center in Melrose, Minnesota.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 13 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport.

Mildred Helen Heinen was born February 5, 1939 in Saint Anthony, Minnesota to Martin and Anna (Eiynck) Heinen. As a young woman, Millie worked at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud. She was united in marriage to Richard Nienaber on April 19, 1961 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in St. Anthony. The couple settled on a farm near Freeport where Millie was a farmwife and homemaker. Millie always said that her favorite way to show love to her family was to cook for them, and she was an excellent cook and baker, especially when it came to her apple pies.

Millie began working at Melrose Area Schools as a cook and baker in 1987 and retired in 2017. One of Millie’s accomplishments that she was proud of was earning her GED in 2007, one week prior to her oldest grandchild’s graduation.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport, Christian Women, and Catholic United Financial. She was an active member of her faith community serving in many roles. Millie enjoyed cooking and baking, gardening, walking and biking on the trail, reading, embroidering, and also enjoyed volunteering for Meals on Wheels.

Survivors include her husband, Richard Nienaber of Melrose; children, Kathleen Nienaber-Gapinski (Rick) of Cold Spring, Daniel (Cindy) Nienaber of Albany, Michael (Susan)

Nienaber of Osakis, and Charles (Sheri) Nienaber of Freeport; 11 grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren with two on the way; brothers and sisters, Delores (Bob) Weyer of Sauk Rapids, David (Margaret) Heinen of Sartell, Rosemary Nienaber of Burtrum, Vernon (Karen) Heinen of Albany, and Gerald (Ione) Heinen of Albany.

Millie was preceded in death by her parents; son, Clifford Nienaber; brothers and sisters, Anna, Norbert, Dorothy, Margaret, and Arnold.

Memorials are preferred to Sacred Heart School in Freeport.

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

David L. “Dave” Blaeser

David L.

“Dave” Blaeser, age 77 of Grey Eagle, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at the CentraCare Hospital in Melrose, Minnesota.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 15 at St.

Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grey Eagle with Rev. Ron Dockendorf officiating. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the church in Grey Eagle.

David Leonard Blaeser was born on November 30, 1945 to Herman and Marcella (Schriver) Blaeser in St. Cloud, MN. David’s early years were living in St. Cloud and Burtrum, MN and Rapid City, SD. He is the youngest of 7 sons in a family of 9 children.

He married Ermina Ostendorf July 5, 1967 at St. Stephens Catholic Church in Minneapolis. They lived in Minneapolis, St. Cloud, and Grey Eagle (Little Birch) during their 56 years of marriage. Dave worked a variety of jobs in Minneapolis and St. Cloud and worked 25 years at Jennie-O Foods in Melrose MN. He retired from Jennie-O in 2011 and then worked parttime for several summers for the City of Grey Eagle and the DNR.

Dave was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and Monsignor Lorsung Council #14616 Knights of Columbus.

Dave enjoyed hunting of all types but loved fishing even more. Thousands of hours were spent on the lakes in summer and ice fishing in winter. Dave and Ermina lived on Little Birch Lake for 50 years and he always had fishing rods equipped for the little ones so he could teach them how to fish. From a young age, Brian hunted and fished with his dad. They loved the outdoors and were constant companions. Rob Zollar and the four Vogel boys soon followed as Dave taught them how to fish and hunt. He enjoyed reading, TV, bird watching and brandy cocktails. Dave was humble, a man of few words, and a proud Poppa to grandkids Cole & Callie and niece Jade.

Dave is survived by his wife Ermina, son Brian, grandchildren Cole and Callie, siblings Tom (Jeanette), John (Gail), Jerry, Susan (Randall) Severs and numerous nieces & nephews who were all very special to him.

He was preceded in death by daughter Ann Marie Blaeser who died in October of 1977, parents, brothers Jim, Bob and Mike and sister Pat Fritz.

Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral & Cremation Services of Grey Eagle.

Luke A. Jacobs

Luke A. Jacobs, 22 year old resident of rural Little Falls, MN passed away Thursday, March 30, 2023, as a result of an automobile accident in Stearns County.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Flensburg, MN with Father Jimmy Joseph officiating. Burial was in the Parish Cemetery. Caring for Luke and his family was the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, MN.

Luke Andrew Jacobs was born on April 11, 2000 in St. Cloud, MN to Dave and Cathy (Jendro) Jacobs. He grew up near Flensburg, MN, and attended school in Little Falls, graduating from Little Falls Community High School with the Class of 2018. Luke was currently employed at Knife River as a loader operator. He loved his work as an operator but enjoyed working with his Dad running the portable wood processor. Luke was always willing to lend a hand to family or friends and was very loving, caring, and in his free time, he enjoyed four wheeling, mudding, fishing, hunting, gambling, which he was “always one away from millions,” shopping at Buckle, going to concerts and events, singing karaoke, (specifically, Jamey Johnson). He especially loved spending time with his family and friends. He was their biggest and littlest brother. Luke will forever be remembered for his kindhearted soul, being a son, brother, uncle, and one heck of a friend. Luke had a smile that would light up the room and always brought a laugh to those who were around him. Luke “Hermy” was loved dearly and will be missed beyond measure.

Luke is survived by his parents, Dave and Cathy Jacobs of Little Falls, MN; siblings, Todd (Laura) Jacobs of Little Falls, MN, Careena (Spencer) Jacobs of Little Falls, MN, Kyle Jacobs of Little Falls, Devan (Sam) Jacobs of Little Falls, MN, Darren (Jaclan) Jacobs of Fort Ripley, MN; nieces and nephews, Aubrey, Abigail, Oliver, Aiden, Jackson, Carson, Eli, and Ava. Luke was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harlin & Barb Jacobs, Eddie & Deloris Jendro; and uncle, Kary Mollner.

Donald Peter Hemmesch

Donald Peter “Donny” Hemmesch, 67, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday April 1, 2023.

Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at St. Margaret’s Catholic Church in Lake Henry. Reverend Glenn Krystosek officiated. Burial took place in the St. Margaret’s Parish Cemetery.

Donny was born on November 28, 1955 in Melrose, MN to Alois and Elizabeth (Bertram) Hemmesch. He grew up on the family farm in Lake Henry. He graduated from Paynesville High School in 1973. He married and later divorced Carol Schmitt, with whom he had three children. He loved all aspects of farming, especially raking hay and hauling manure. His dogs were his best co-pilots for riding around on his side-by-side to make sure everything was in its proper place, and he made sure Junior knew if it wasn’t. He spent many years shooting pool in league and with anyone who would take on “Lefty”. He enjoyed fishing trips with friends, playing cards at family get-togethers and reminiscing about the good ole days. Everyone knew they could always stop by and visit “Alfonse” at home to shoot the breeze and have a beer.

Donny is survived by his children Donald Jr. (Megan), Angie (Ben Thelen) and Dale; grandchildren Carley, Owen, Olivia and Caleb Hemmesch and Jack, Madison and Eli Hemmesch; sisters: Alice Schaefer and Janet (Donald) Schaefer; brother: Richard (Mary Ann); and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Alois, mother, Elizabeth, stepfather Alfred Rothstein and brother-in-law Herman Schaefer.

Lidvina Mary Vener

Lidvina Mary (Finken) Vener, age 98 of Sauk Centre, passed away on Saturday, April 8, 2023 at the Cerenity Care Center in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 15 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the church.

Lidvina “Lavina” was born on November 5, 1924 to Frances (Stangler) and Frank Finken. Her mother was born in Riebnig, Austria. Frances met Frank in Stearns County after her family immigrated to the US when she was a toddler. Lavina was a member of St. Paul’s parish from her baptism to her first communion through confirmation and marriage. She attended St. Paul’s Elementary School.

When she married Donald J. Vener of Sauk Centre/Ward Springs, they moved to Moorhead, Minnesota where they lived for more than 20 years raising their family of three children. They were active in St. Joseph’s Parish and the community. Throughout her life, she was a member of the Christian Mothers. Lavina and Don returned to Sauk Centre upon retirement where they enjoyed 27 more years together.

Lavina was devoted to her family and friends—always ready to help and support and put her know-how to work for others. She was curious and interested in learning new skills. She and a few friends were often enrolled in classes to learn crafts such as candle making, cake decorating, upholstery, quilting, and sewing. She loved children and they loved her. She frequently put her creative skills to work for children in her care and they appreciated her genius. She could conjure an entire make-up artist’s palette out of kitchen food stuffs and delight children with painting their faces on rainy afternoons.

Lavina especially enjoyed nature and the outdoors. Her children remember her fondly for the delight she took in every-day small but remarkable things such as the growth habits of trees and the beauty of sunrises. She looked at these things with wonder and awe.

Lidvina leaves behind three children, Diane Vener, Beverly (Vener) Atwood and husband, Tom Atwood, Larry Vener, and her grandson, Zachary Atwood and his fiancé, Susan Anderson. She will be greatly missed by family members and friends. They will cherish the many wonderful memories they shared with her.

Memorials are preferred to the Alzheimer's Association.

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

Birth Announcements

Deluca Dawn Kociemba

Calliena and Allen Kociemba of Freeport are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Deluca Dawn Kociemba, born on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at 6:25 a.m. at CentraCare-Melrose Hospital.

Deluca weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces and measured 18.25 inches long.

Her big brothers are Tatum, 10 years old, and Cayden, 8 years old, both at home.

Grandparents are Judy and Don Kociemba of Avon, and Julie Ostendorf and Del Hoffman of Big Lake.

Amari Jennifer Bueckers

Savannah Sprau and Austin Bueckers of Melrose are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Amari Jennifer Bueckers, born on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at 8:55 p.m. at CentraCare-Melrose Hospital.

Amari weighed 8 pounds, and measured 20.5 inches long.

Grandparents are Angela and David Sprau of Pequot Lakes, and Rodney Bueckers of Albany. Great-grandparents are Diane and Barney Bueckers of Albany.

Minnesota Severe Weather Awareness Week Statewide Tornado Drills on Thursday, April 20th

The Morrison County Sheriff's Office Emergency Management wants to remind everyone that Severe Weather Awareness Week is April 17-21. On Thursday, April 20th, they will be participating in the Statewide Tornado Drills with sirens being activated at 1:45 PM and 6:45 PM. Outdoor warning sirens will sound in a simulated tornado warning. The tornado drills allow everyone in the community to practice their emergency plans for tornadoes. The first drill is intended for institutions and businesses. The evening drill is intended for second shift workers and families. There is no such thing as an “all-clear” siren.

For more information about severe

weather safety and preparedness, please visit the Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management website at https:// dps.mn.gov/divisions/hsem/weather-awareness-preparedness/Pages/default.aspx for daily topics during Severe Weather Awareness Week. Each day of the week highlights an important seasonal weather safety topic: Monday- Alerts and Warnings; Tuesday- Severe Weather, Lightning and Hail; WednesdayFloods; Thursday- Tornadoes (with Statewide Tornado Drills) and Friday- Extreme Heat. We encourage everyone to be informed and prepared!

Stearns Co. Sheriff’s Office

Fraud Calls: The Stearns County Sheriff's Office Dispatch Center has received multiple calls from citizens stating that they had received a phone call from a person identifying themself as a Stearns County Sheriff’s Sergeant. The calls included requesting medical information, legal documents, or using intimidation about past due unpaid fines. These calls are fraudulent and are aimed to illicit your personal information or money. All the callers correctly called our office directly, where we were able to confirm the calls were in fact a scam.

If you receive a call like the ones described and are unsure if the conversation is authentic or not, please contact the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office at 320-251-4240. The Sheriff’s Office cautions individuals to never give out your personal information when contacted in this manner.

Arson: April 6, 2023: At approximately 2:11 p.m., the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications Center received the report of a building fire. Stearns County Deputies, Upsala Fire Department, Freeport Fire Department, Holdingford Fire Department, and a MN DNR Conservation Officer responded to the scene located at 43985 248th Avenue in Krain Township. Upon arrival deputies found the residence to be fully engulfed. Deputies made contact with a female party identified as Jamie Morin, 40, of Wahpeton, North Dakota and she admitted to starting the fire. Morin was taken into custody for questioning and later arrested for 1st Degree Arson. The residence was owned by Brian Blommel, 52, of Freeport, and was considered a complete loss. The incident

is being investigated by the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Crash: April 7, 2023: At approximately 11:48 p.m., the Stearns County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a single-vehicle crash in the 31200 block of Birch Valley Road in Millwood Township. This location is approximately ten miles northeast of the city of Melrose, on the south side of Big Birch Lake.

Upon arrival deputies located a 2001 Buick Park Avenue that appeared to have been driving northwest on Birch Valley Rd., when the driver lost control and drove off of the road striking a tree. The driver, identified as Daniel Kapsner, 21, of Melrose, was out of the Buick and had no apparent injuries. The front seat passenger, Jake Jurek, 20, of St. Cloud, was trapped inside of the vehicle and appeared to have a serious injury to his left leg. The Melrose Fire Department extricated Jurek, who was then transported by Melrose Ambulance to CentraCare Health-Melrose. Both occupants were wearing their seatbelt at the time of the crash. Alcohol is being investigated as a contributing factor in the crash. The Stearns County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Melrose Police Department, Melrose Fire Department, and Melrose Area Ambulance.

View the Historic Renovation at the Minnesota State Capital

T.C.C.A. Sponsoring a Bus to the Minnesota Capitol • You do NOT need to be a Senior! Bus stops midway - riders pay for treats at this stop.

Choose your lunch at the newly renovated 115 year old Rathskeller or DOT Dining Halls beneath the Capitol. Pick and pay for the meal of your Choice -Guided Tours of the Capitol follow. (Fee pd)

Learn more about the value of Historic Preservation and Farm-to-Table Dining at the Farmer’s Bar and Grill -St. Paul. (Meal included in trip)

Bus Pick up: Staples Community Center 7:00 a.m. Eagle Bend Hilltop Kitchen 7:20 a.m. Long Prairie Long Prairie Senior Center 7:45 a.m. Bus sponsored by Todd County Council on Aging.

Call Janet Umland to register 218-924-2031- Leave a message or text. Send payment of $73 (Bus, Capitol fee, Meal at Farmer’s Bar and Grill) TCCA % Janet Umland at 14527 410th St., Bertha, MN, 56437.

If you are unable to attend, you must transfer ticket to another person. No refunds.

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 thinking more seriously about buying a home in the next year or so. It seems like the housing market has cooled off a bit, so I am also planning to get a secured credit card to help me rebuild my credit score in the meantime. I make $60,000 a year, and I have about $15,000 in debt and $3,100 in savings. Is this a good idea and a good start toward getting my credit back on track and taking control of my finances?

Dear Martin,

-Martin

In a word, no. I want you to become debt-free before you buy a home. I also want you to have an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses set aside, and have a down payment—preferably of at least 20%, so you can avoid having to pay private mortgage insurance—before buying a home.

Let me tell you a couple of things. Number one, your income is your most powerful wealth building tool. If you don’t have any payments, you have the ability to build wealth and be generous. When you have debt, all you do is send money out the door to make payments. So, being in debt is a guaranteed way to stay broke. That means getting a secured credit card is not a good

idea, either.

Also, did you know you can get a home mortgage with no credit score through a process called manual underwriting? All you have to do is make sure you have a good, long history of paying other things, like your utilities and rent, on time. Most mortgage lenders who do manual underwriting would also require that you have all your debts paid off completely and the accounts closed for at least six months.

Buying a house when you’re in debt and broke is a really bad idea, Martin. It’s the fastest way I know to turn something that should be a blessing into a financial and emotional curse. Just be patient, get out of debt and save up. Getting control of your finances is the smartest thing you can do before buying a home!

-Dave

* Dave Ramsey is a seven-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

Albany Senior Dining

Mon., Apr. 17: BBQ rib patty, baked potato, peas, banana.

Tues., Apr. 18: Shrimp, rice, vegetable Normandy, mandarin oranges.

Wed., Apr. 19: Pork, sweet potato, green beans, applesauce, roll.

Thurs., Apr. 20: Spaghetti w/meat sauce, noodles, carrots, orange slices, breadstick.

Fri., Apr. 21: Cheeseburger on bun, macaroni salad, broccoli, apples.

Pre-registration requested to dine daily.

For more info. call 320-845-4070.

Upsala - All Ages

BREAKFAST: Mon.-Fri. 7-10 a.m.: Walk in & dine. Take out available, call ahead.

Mon., Apr. 17: Pork chops, potato, vegetable, dessert.

Tues., Apr. 18: Spaghetti hotdish, vegetable, garlic bread, dessert.

Wed., Apr. 19: Sweet & sour chicken, rice, eggroll, dessert.

Thurs., Apr. 20: 5:30 PM: Chicken wild rice, chili, bars.

Fri., Apr. 21: Hot dog, macaroni & cheese, vegetable, dessert. Pick up or eat in by 11:30 a.m. For meals, call a day before: 320-573-4435.

Dear Motor Medics,

I've got a Nissan Titan and it has a ticking noise in the engine. It has had this for about a year and it doesn't seem to get any louder, but it makes me nervous about taking it on trips far from home. When I have my engine oil changed my shop says it's just lifters and they probably are noisy because I tend to change my engine oil every 10k miles, I know, that's too long between changes. I recently put in an additive that cleans the engine oil system and the noise stopped for two weeks then came back. Should I try two cans at the same time?

-Carry in Hills, Minnesota

Dear Carry, NO! That's the best way we can answer that last question. Never use an additive in a way not directed by the manufacturer of said product or you risk permanent damage. Additives have their place and if used as directed sometimes can fix a problem and save you a ton of money, but they are also some of the most abused products out there. With your extended oil changes, you probably clogged up some oil passages and using the cleaner helped restore them. Most of those cleaners are meant to be installed, then the engine oil changed within a few minutes of running. If that works then you may be able to repeat every 1000k miles for a few months and you may save the engine.

-Take care, the Motor Medics

Dear Motor Medics, Hey, what gives with the low tire pressure monitors? I am so sick of these things. It seems like every vehicle I drive has a low tire light on and even when I add the correct amount of air the light still stays on. How do these things work and how can I shut the light off permanently so that I don't have to worry about it.

-Derik in Osage Beach, Missouri

Brian’s Painting

Dear Derik, Yikes! It's never any fun having a light come on and taunt you like that. Check Engine lights, ABS lights and Low Tire lights are some of the most annoying things on a car, but they all are there for a reason. They either are trying to save your life or the car’s life. In the case of a low tire light, it is the former. Low tire warning systems were made mandatory by the government for safety a while back due to so many accidents caused by tire failure from under inflation. The system uses pressure sensors mounted in the tire usually on the valve stem and they contain batteries and a transmitter to relay the pressure and tire temp to the vehicles computer where it determines if it is a safe pressure and either illuminates the warning lamp or not. The system can't be bypassed, and it would not be legal to do so. Get it diagnosed. Most shops can repair them at a reasonable price.

-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 • March 7, 2023

Minutes of the Swanville City Council meeting held in the Swanville Center on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. The meeting called to order 7:00 p.m. with the following members present: Sandy Lange, John Dragseth, Norm Carlson, Tony Maciej and Jim Molitor. Also present: Holly Wilson, Tyrel Clark, Bruce and Laurie Miller, Jason Murray, and reporter Terry Lehrke.

Minutes of the Swanville City Council meeting Tuesday, February 7, 2023 was reviewed. A motion was made by John Dragseth to approve the minutes. Norm Carlson seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.

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

Holly Wilson and Tyrel Clark city engineers with Moore Engineering were present to go over with council proposals that were obtained from well drillers. Moore sent out invitations to well drillers and two were received back. After discussion, Jim Molitor made a motion to accept the quote from Traut Wells Companies for $33,490.00 for the digging of the first productive well and obtain samples of the well. Norm Carlson seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried. No money has been granted at this time for the new water project. Mayor Lange will be going to the capital to testify before the Senate’s Capital Investment Committee March 9 to talk about the city’s water project and its need for funding in the bonding bill.

Mayor Lange introduced Jason Murray with David Drown and Associates. Jason explained the temporary funding of $563,000.00 to pay

Moore Engineering. Jason stated the First State Bank of Swanville is carrying the loan and offered a competitive interest rate. Resolution #230307 for temporary funding was introduced, Jim Molitor made a motion to accept Resolution #230307 for the temporary funding to pay Moore Engineering. John Dragseth seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried. The funding is set for a closing date of March 28, 2023.

Building permit applications were looked at. The Swanville Bible Church is requesting to build a handicapped ramp in the front of the church with concrete added under the ramp and move the church sign also. Jim Molitor made a motion to give a building permit to the Bible Church for the ramp. John Dragseth seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried. No fee will be collected. The city does not charge a fee for handicap ramps. Tom and Janet Kruzel is requesting to build a 65’x60’ house with garage and a 24’x28’ shed on there property on 30 Forest Hill Lane. Mayor Lange made a motion to give a building permit to the Kruzel’s to build the house with garage and shed. Jim Molitor seconded he motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.

City wide clean-up day is set for Saturday, May 6, 2023.

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. John Dragseth seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.

The next regular monthly meeting will be held Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at 7:00 pm in the Swanville Center.

There being no further business, a motion

GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP Beach and Public Boat Access Maintenance

Grey Eagle Township is looking for someone to maintain the swimming beach on Big Birch Lake and the public boat access area. Duties would include putting in the dock and fall removal, general clean-up and mowing as needed. Interested applicant must be at least 16 years old and provide proof of insurance. This would be for the 2023 season and would be paid at the end of summer. Please contact one of the township’s supervisors or Mary Ann Primus, clerk @ 320-815-8224 before the May 1st meeting.

GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP Mowing Township Road Ditches

Grey Eagle Township is looking for someone to mow township road ditches. The board is looking for someone with equipment to cut an 8-10 foot wide swath. Proof of insurance is required. The board is looking for quotes by the hour. This project includes approx. 60 miles of road as some areas will not be mowed. Interested applicants can meet with the township road supervisor, John Young or call 612-597-4499 before presenting a bid for the project. Quotes may be sent to Grey Eagle Township, P.O. Box 202, Grey Eagle, MN 56336 before the June 5, 2023 meeting.

GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP • DUST CONTROL

Grey Eagle Township will be contracting for dust abatement treatment of gravel roads for the 2023 season. Magnesium Chloride Road Saver will be applied at the cost to the property owner of $44.50 per hundred feet. Cost sharing for 2023 will be limited to 400 ft. per property. If you are interested in having the gravel road treated in front of your property, send a check and a note indicating the area you wish to have treated and include your address to: Grey Eagle Township PO Box 202 Grey Eagle, MN 56336

Product will not be applied until payment is received. If you have questions call Mary Ann Primus at 320-815-8224

Mary Ann Primus, Grey Eagle Township Clerk

MELROSE TOWNSHIP Important Information Regarding Property Assessments This may affect your 2024 taxes

The Board of Appeal and Equalization for Melrose Township will meet on 4/20/2023, 2:00-2:30 pm, at the Melrose Township Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classified by the assessor.

If you believe the value or classification of your property is incorrect, please contact your assessor’s office to discuss your concerns. If you disagree with the valuation and classification after discussing it with your assessor, you may appear before the local board of appeal and equalization. The board will review your assessments and may make corrections as needed. Generally, you must appeal to the local board before appealing to the county board of appeal and equalization.

Cecilia Tylutki, Melrose Township Clerk

was made by Tony Maciej and seconded by Jim Molitor to adjourn. All members voted in favor, motion carried. Meeting adjourned 8:05pm.

Julie Hollermann, City Clerk/Treasurer

CLASSIFIED ADS

FOUND: A car key fob South of Grey Eagle. Call 320-285-3261.

WANTED TO BUY: Butcher cows, bulls, fats & walkable cripples: also horses, sheep & goats. 320-235-2664. SC-odB

WANTED: Apartment or house to rent around Grey Eagle or Albany area. Call 507304-1726 ask for Jack.

WANTED: 606 or 454 International utility tractor. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn

WANTED: 70 hp. tractor with cab & snowblower, reasonable. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn

WANTED TO BUY: Brass national cash register, must be in working condition. Call 651-739-2715. 4/27

FOR SALE: 18x8 insulated garage door with opener and tracks. Call 320-290-0397.

FOR SALE: Steel house siding and vinyl windows. Call 320-290-0397.

FOR SALE: 14' Crestliner aluminum boat with 6HP Johnson Sea Horse outboard motor, and Snowco trailer, $1250. Call 218760-8266. GR-tfn

FOR SALE: Tractor tire chains 11x38, 22 in. wide, 120 in. long, $100. Call 612-2832718.

FOR SALE: 1982 Marxium 1100 cc Yamaha m/c, exc. condition, 9k miles. Call 320573-2355. 4/27

FOR SALE: Weber 3 burner gas grill, includes tank, good shape. Call 320-5732355. 4/27

FOR SALE: Weber charcoal gas fired grill, good shape, gas tank included. Call 320573-2355. 4/27

FOR SALE: 22x33 inch stainless steel kitchen sink 7 inches deep with faucets and hoses, good condition, reasonable. Call/text 320-630-0134.

FOR SALE: 2-mounted plows for Allis Chalmers WD or D17. 3-14” bottoms. Call 320-250-3874, leave message.

FOR SALE: Floe V2000 electric boat lift with canopy/cover/battery tray/rod holders/ remote, excellent cond., $3,500. Grey Eagle 612-709-8918. 4/20

HELP WANTED

Full Time & Part Time Cooks

$16-$22 an Hour Call or Apply Within Shady’s Golden Eagle Bar & Grill Burtrum • 320-285-6707

Todd County HHS Employment Opportunities

Todd County HHS is looking for reliable, service oriented individuals to serve the citizens of Todd County in following positions:

**Eligibility Worker - (FT)

** Registered Nurse - Care Coordinator (FT)

** Home Health Aide (PT)

To learn more about these openings and how to apply visit the official Todd County website at https://www.co.todd.mn.us Questions may be directed to Todd County Administration: (320) 732-6155. EOE