Hometown News April 18, 2024

Presence of mind is a gift

During Navy maneuvers, the captain was pushing his destroyer to the limit when a sailor came to the bridge with a message from the admiral.

“Read it aloud,” beamed the captain.

He read: “Of all the blundering idiots. You nearly rammed the flagship.”

The captain pursed his lips and snapped, “Very well sailor, go below and have it decoded.”

The presence of mind is absolutely crucial, not just in business, but in all aspects of life. It is that quick-wittedness, the ability to think on your feet, that can make all the difference in how you handle unexpected situations, respond to questions or make decisions under pressure.

Having a clear and present mind allows you to weigh options more effectively and make informed decisions quickly. Whether you are networking, selling or simply engaging in casual talk, being mentally present helps you to listen actively and respond thoughtfully.

When the unexpected happens, the presence of mind can help you stay calm and take actions that could be crucial to the outcome. Sometimes opportunities come disguised as sudden challenges. If you are mentally present, you are more likely to recognize and seize these opportunities.

Here are some tips on how to develop presence of mind:

• Stay prepared. Like the Boy Scouts say, “Be prepared.” Anticipate what might come your way and have a working knowledge of the subject at hand.

FRIDAY, APRIL 19

• Be confident. I’ve learned that confidence is key. You can’t be overly concerned with what others might think of you. Trust in your knowledge and experience.

-By Harvey Mackay the unexpected. You don’t ever want to have to backtrack on words spoken in haste when you can move forward with thoughts offered with respect to the other side of the conversation.

• Practice active listening. Pay attention to what is being said. This helps you respond appropriately and shows respect for the speaker.

• Seek clarification. If you don’t understand something, ask questions. This not only buys you time to think but ensures you are responding to what is actually being asked.

• Tell a story. I often use stories, sometimes with a touch of humor, to illustrate my points. This not only helps in engaging with the audience but also in making the message more memorable.

• Use pauses wisely. Don’t be afraid of silence. Use it to collect your thoughts and deliver a well-considered response. A brief pause can help in formulating a more coherent and impactful response.

• Stay calm. Take deep breaths and relax. A calm mind is more agile and able to think clearly.

Remember, presence of mind is not an innate talent but a skill that can be honed with practice and intention. It is about being in the moment, fully engaged and ready to handle whatever comes your way with grace and composure.

Perhaps the greatest stumbling block to being present is the impulsive need to get your two cent’s worth in, your desire to comment on the situation without all the relevant information. Resist the urge! You rarely win an argument or a negotiation if you speak too soon. You may consider yourself an expert on a given subject, but it is critical that you offer an opinion that reflects your respect for information that is being offered.

It is not about quick responses. It is about the right responses. It is about staying calm under pressure, being resourceful and using the knowledge and experience to navigate through

President Abraham Lincoln was a very sharp thinker as he proved when a persistent party member once approached him and demanded appointment to a judgeship as reward for some campaigning he had done in Illinois. The President, aware of the man’s lack of judicial attributes, told him it was impossible. “There simply are no vacancies at the present time.”

Early the next morning, the man was walking along the Potomac River when he saw a drowned man pulled from the river and immediately recognized him as a federal judge. Without a moment of hesitation, he went to President Lincoln and demanded an immediate appointment to the vacancy.

Lincoln shook his head and said, “I’m sorry but you are too late. I have already appointed the lawyer who saw him fall in.”

Mackay’s Moral: The ability to think on your feet can prevent you from falling on your face.

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

• Melrose American Legion Fish Fry from 4:30-8 p.m. See ad on page 3.

SUNDAY, APRIL 21

• An Evening of Rhyme and Reason at 6 p.m. at 510 Art Lab, Sauk Centre.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

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

• Long Prairie Orchestra Symphony of Sound Concert at 7 p.m. at the LP-GE High School, Long Prairie. See ad on page 7.

SUNDAY, APRIL 28

• 52nd Annual Swanycake & Sausage Supper from 3-8:30 p.m. at St. Anthony Parish.

WED.-FRI., MAY 1-3

• Melrose Area Arts Council Festival of the Arts.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1

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

THURSDAY, MAY 2

• Avon Women of Today Red Cross Blood Drive from 12:30-6:30 p.m. at Avon Community Church.

FRIDAY, MAY 3

• Holy Family School’s Annual Color Run and 5K at 5:30 p.m. at Seven Dolors Church, Albany.

TUESDAY, MAY 7

• Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting

at 2 p.m. at CentraCare West Campus Board Room, Long Prairie.

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.

“The Good Old Days”

Personal health care was not always as convenient as it is today. If one had a serious medical problem, someone had to take the horse and try to find the doctor. He may be at his office or possibly at another patient’s home, assisting them with their health problem. Early doctors commonly made house calls, which probably consumed a great deal of travel time. In today’s world we would think that this method was rather inefficient.

Due to the time and effort needed to contact a doctor, the rural families tried to treat their medical conditions themselves. They concocted many questionable medicines, some being passed down to them from their parents, some having the influence of the Native Americans and some they must have dreamed up themselves. The large medicine manufacturers which are very common today didn’t exist in earlier days. Some of the medicines they made were actually based on plants and formulas common to the early settlers.

Aspirin, which is very common today comes from the inner bark of a willow. The bark was harvested, cut into smaller pieces and left to dry in the sun for a few hours, after which it was boiled and the liquid was either consumed as a tea or allowed to reduce in volume for easier storage. It was very difficult to control the dosage using this method.

Baking soda or salt took the place of modern day tooth paste.

If a child had a habit of sucking their thumb, tire patching glue on the thumb discouraged the habit.

If someone had an ear ache, 5 puffs of tobacco smoke blown into the ear would reduce the pain.

If someone had anemia, daily consumption of raw hamburger, weekly consumption of raw liver or occasional drinking of blood would build back the patients blood.

If someone had arthritis, drinking tea made from alfalfa seeds or daily consumption of 12 lite colored raisins soaked in Gin was said to help. A copper bracelet around the left wrist also created easier limb movement.

One that was really hard to believe was a method for prevention of lockjaw. If you step on a rusty nail, immediately step in a fresh cow pie and it will draw out the poison.

Cuts and abrasions should be treated with honey to promote healing and prevent infections. I remember these conditions to be

-By Tom Kuehne

treated with iodine solution.

Burns were cooled as fast as possible with some form of cooling solution. I was a witness to an accident where the fellow, naked to the waste, was splashed with hot grease when a large jar fell into a French fryer. Potatoes were immediately crushed and placed directly on the burned area. The result was immediate pain relief with no scaring or blisters.

A sore throat was especially traumatic for kids. Not only did their throat hurt, but the cure may have been even worse. The cure was a teaspoon of sugar with kerosene added to it. It did make the sore throat get better, but everything you ate for the next week tasted like kerosene. Honey will also coat a sore throat.

A chest cold was originally treated with a mustard plaster. The mustard was warmed in water, placed on a piece of flannel and put on the patients chest. The pain caused to the skin made the patient forget about the cold for a while. In later years, Vicks rubbed directly on the neck and chest, covered by a cloth was the accepted solution. Vicks on the throat also helps to reduce the urge to cough.

Preparation H was used daily to help eliminate facial wrinkles.

Poison ivy causes an itchy rash. This rash could be treated by boiling spotted elder bark and putting the liquid on the rash. The skin is temporarily stained brown, but the rash disappears. Crushed jewel weed rubbed on the rash will make it go away. Fels Naptha soap made into a paste, rubbed on the rash and allowed to dry will also solve the problem. There are many more home remedies and I know that I will be getting some calls from readers about their early experiences.

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

From the Desk of Pastor Bruce

Most of my articles encourage readers to love our Lord and read His Word, and to love one another in the same way Jesus loved us. But there is one more thing in my heart today. Most of the time I get my inspiration from God’s Word, so I am not minimizing that at all, in fact you will be encouraged to read His Word even more.

As I was reading my morning devotions, I finished 2 Samuel, and the very last verse challenged me in my prayer life. 2 Samuel 24:25 “Then David built there an altar to the LORD, and he offered burnt offerings and peace offerings. And the LORD responded to prayer for the land, and the plague was withdrawn from Israel.” The back story is that David had sinned against the Lord and God gave David a choice of three disciplines. David chose the only one that made sense to Him. The plague that was sent by God because “God is merciful." Good words for us today!

We are also encouraged to pray for the saints! While we pray in thanksgiving for the blessings God has given us, and while we pray for the needs of others and ourselves. God encourages us, to pray for other Christians. We are part of the family of God and He cares for us all. Ephesians 6:18 says “And pray in the

Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” We are also encouraged in James 5:14 and 16 to pray for health issues. 14“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. 16Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Please consider bringing your praise and requests to God and watch Him work in your life and bless those around you.

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

HAPPY HOUR: Mon.-Wed.: 4:30-6:30 PM $3.00

Thursday: All Day/Night $3.00

Dine In Only - With Beverage Purchase Corner Pub & Grill Freeport, MN • 320-836-2120

Monday: (5-9 pm) $3.50 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

Thursday: (5-9 pm) Taco Wrap $8.50

Friday, April 19th HORSE RACES

Happy Hour: Busch Light Pounders $3.50

Friday: (5-9 pm) Choice of:

• 6 oz. Steak $12

• Add 3 Shrimp $15

• 6 oz. Butter/Garlic Steak $12

• Add 3 Shrimp $15

• 6 Shrimp $9.00

• Served with Baked Potato

• 6 Butterfly Shrimp w/Fries $10

Saturday: (4-8 pm) 1/4 lb. Hamburger $3.00 Toppings 50¢ each; Bacon 50¢ Slice

LUNCH SPECIALS

Monday-Friday: 11 AM-1 PM

Elizabeth A. Breitbach

Elizabeth A. “Betty” Breitbach, age 92 of Elrosa, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Sunday, April 7, 2024 at the Cura Care Center in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2024 at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Elrosa with Rev. David Grundman officiating. Interment will be held in the parish cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday at the church.

Elizabeth Ann Haskamp was born June 9, 1931 in Sauk Centre, Minnesota to Henry and Emma (Imdieke) Haskamp. She was united in marriage to Leander “Lee” Breitbach on September 6, 1954 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. Betty was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Christian Mothers, Ladies Auxiliary, and Elrosa Senior Citizen. She did voluntary work for Senior Citizens Meals on Wheels.

Betty enjoyed the Home Makers Club. She enjoyed trying new bar recipes and babysitting grandchildren and great-grandchildren, teaching them German. She loved crafts, cutting grass, working on her flower garden, and going to auctions with Pa. Lover of Finch birds. Christmas was her favorite holiday.

Survivors include her four sons, Vernon (Della) Breitbach of St. Joseph, Robert (Edna) Breitbach of Sauk Centre, Michael (Jean) Breitbach of Sauk Centre, and Randy (Maria) Breitbach of Indianapolis, Indiana; seven grandchildren; two great-grandsons; and brother, Julian Haskamp of Sauk Centre, and her sisterin-law, Irene Haskamp of Waite Park.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Lee Breitbach on June 19, 2015; parents, and brothers, Ervin and Othmar Haskamp.

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

Gladys R. Kuhlmann

Gladys R. Kuhlmann, age 79 of Sauk Centre, died peacefully on Thursday, April 11, 2024 surrounded by her family, after a short battle with cancer, at her home in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 18 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church with Rev. Greg Paffel officiating. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday at the church.

Gladys Regine Haskamp was born September 2, 1944 in Meire Grove, Minnesota to Bernard and Martha (Yarke) Haskamp. She went to country school until the 9th grade and continued her education until the 11th grade. She worked at Jennie-O Turkey Store for 20 years prior to retirement. Gladys enjoyed her birds, especially loved the hummingbirds, and feeding the deer and squirrels.

She was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church and a former member of the Christian Mothers. Gladys was a private person and her Catholic faith was most important to her.

Survivors include her sons, Dale Kuhlmann (significant other, Linda Williams) of Little Sauk and Kevin (Nancy) Kuhlmann of Sauk Centre; daughter, Pam (Jim) Stewart of Hurley, South Dakota; grandchildren, Ryan Stewart, Melanie Seelen, Stephanie (Jason) Becker, Tracie (Nathan) Lynnes, and Kalli (Will) Funk; seven great grandchildren; and brother, Duane Haskamp of Sauk Centre.

Gladys was preceded in death by her parents; and sisters, Jeanette Moritz, Doris VanHavermaet, and Lois Kuhlmann.

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

Rose Marie Eiden

Mass of Christian Burial for Rose Marie Eiden, age 90, of Holdingford, was held Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Church of All Saints-St. Mary’s, Holdingford. Interment was at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Holdingford. Rose passed away on April 11 at Country Manor in Sartell surrounded by her loving family. Rose was born on April 2, 1934, in St. Anthony, MN to Louis and Monica (Finken) Ramacher. She attended school until the 8th grade in a two-room schoolhouse and then attended and graduated from Albany High School. After high school, Rose moved to Minneapolis and worked there for a short time. She married George Eiden on October 15, 1955, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, St. Anthony, making their home in Holdingford, MN. Together they raised seven children and built a successful commercial beekeeping business. While growing up, German was spoken in the home and Rose became interested in studying the German language. She and George traveled to Germany to visit their daughter, Lottie, who was an exchange student there. While in Germany they met and visited relatives and a fellow beekeeper, who in turn visited them in Holdingford. Rose continued to study German so she could be grammatically correct when reading, speaking, and writing the language. She and George frequently traveled to rural Alaska during the summer months to visit Lottie’s family and friends. Rose loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, George Eiden, Holdingford; children, Norma (Ken Strom) Eiden, Sauk Rapids, Milton (Katie) Eiden, Holdingford, Ruby (Mike Lashinski) Eiden, Avon, Jorgen Eiden, Holdingford, Karl (Kim) Eiden, Monticello, Ryan (Kari) Eiden, Albany & Alaska, 12 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, brother, James (Jean) Ramacher, St. Anthony.

Rose was preceded in death by her daughter Lottie, in 2017, and sister, Shirley Schmidt, in 2018.

Sharon Ann Prokott

Sharon Ann (Wentland) Prokott, age 54, passed away April 11, 2024. Services will be held Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 11 a.m. at Church of All Saints St. Hedwig Catholic Church, Holdingford.

Sharon was born on December 23, 1969, in Little Falls, MN to Louis and Eleanor (Binsfeld) Wentland. She attended and graduated from Holdingford High School. Throughout her life, Sharon worked at Polar, the United States Postal Service, Fingerhut, Schmidt Laboratories and Albany Bakery as well as being a stay at home mother to three kids. She married Steve Prokott on September 11, 1993, at St. Hedwig Catholic Church, Holdingford. She loved flowers of all kinds, animals, canning with Ball jars, traveling the world, and was a terrific cook and baker.

Sharon is survived by her loving husband of over 30 years, Steve Prokott, Avon, children, Samantha Prokott, Rawlings, WY, Vanessa (Taylor) Swank, Bowlus, Nolan Prokott, Maple Grove, grandson, Reece and soon another grandchild, brothers and sisters, Donny (Mary) Wentland, Holdingford, Dale (Linda) Wentland, Holdingford, Patrick (Ann Marie) Wentland, Holdingford, Darice (Daniel) Stommes, Albany, Darryl Wentland, Bowlus, Gary (Ann) Wentland, Holdingford, and Lori (Mike) Kuklok, Holdingford.

Preceded in death by an infant daughter, Maria, sister, Debbie and brother-in-law, Paul.

Jeffrey John Baird

Memorial Services will be at 11:00 AM on Friday, April 19 at the United Methodist Church in Grey Eagle for Jeffrey John Baird, 79, of St. Cloud who passed away on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at his home. Pastor Jake Holck will officiate and burial will be at St. Boniface Cemetery in Cold Spring. Visitation will be an hour before the services at the church in Grey Eagle. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Funeral Home in St. Cloud.

Jeffrey was born in Grey Eagle on January 19, 1945 to John and Elma (Koski) Baird. Second of three children Judy, Jeff, Joy. Although Jeff moved away from Grey Eagle in 1962, he never really left his beloved small town community in spirit. He received his Bachelor’s Degree at Saint Cloud State University. Jeffrey married Patricia Schiemann on June 17, 1967 at St. Joseph’s Church in Grey Eagle.

Jeffrey was known for his sharp wit and his honest, robust sense of humor. He leaned on his faith in times of struggle. Jeff loved spending time with his grandchildren above all else. He also enjoyed all sports, especially baseball.

Jeffrey is survived by his children; Brant (Angela), Tisha, Kyle, Jeremy, Brigette (Bob), and Lindsey, sister Joy Lucius of Lakeville, and grandchildren Trent, Ariel, Layla, Ella, and Winston.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Patricia and sister Judy Borgerding.

Bernie Mettler

Bernie Mettler, 60 year old resident of Long Prairie, MN, passed away on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at his residence. A Funeral Service will be held at 1 PM on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at Living Hope Assembly of God Church in Little Falls, MN. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 PM on Friday at Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, and from 12 noon to 1 PM Saturday at the church. Caring for Bernie and his family is the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, MN.

Bernard Thomas Mettler was born on September 3, 1963 in Wessington Springs, South Dakota, to Thomas and Margaret (Simmons) Mettler. He moved with his family to Swanville, Minnesota at the age of two. Bernie spent his formative years attending Swanville School and working at the Circle R Ranch, where he met his future wife, Cindy. After the birth of his third child, Bernie endeavored to receive his Associates Degree in Law Enforcement from Brainerd Community College. This led to a career serving his community in Staples, Minnesota, Madison, Minnesota, and later St. Louis County. Bernie’s character and drive to help people defined his 25year career with the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. Whether guiding moose off a busy road or donating pork to his church, Bernie acted always as a steward to those in need. Bernie spent his retirement years, caring for his family and friends, and sharing his love of the outdoors with those he loved. If you wanted to find Bernie, he’d be on the lake with a rod, in the field with a rifle, or hauling a load of firewood to a friend.

Bernie is survived by his parents, Tom and Margaret Mettler; his siblings, Randy (Marge) Mettler, Bob (Cindy) Mettler, Bill (Kristy) Mettler, Joni (Brian) Nelson, and Richard Mettler; survived also by his three children, Josh (Lori) Mettler, Jeremy (Hollee) Mettler, and Danielle (Dave Hanson) Mettler; former wife, Cindy Mettler; stepchildren, Bryce SampsonBernstrom, Brenden Donner, and Kayle Donner; grandchildren, Wyatt Mettler, Connor Mettler, and Brayden Donner; and many, many beloved nieces and nephews.

Gary L. Eggerth

Gary L. Eggerth, 76 year old resident of Burtrum, MN passed away Sunday, April 14, 2024 at Quiet Oaks Hospice House in St. Cloud, MN. A funeral service will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Thursday, April 18, 2024 at the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, MN. A visitation will be held from 9:3011:30 A.M. on Thursday at the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, MN. Burial will take place in the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery north of Little Falls, MN. Caring for Gary and his family is the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, MN.

Gary Lee Eggerth was born on July 20, 1947 in Little Falls, MN to the late Parenell and Margaret (Schrader) Eggerth. He grew up in the Long Prairie area and was a graduate of Upsala High School. Gary served in the U.S Army from November of 1966 until his honorable discharge in November of 1968. He worked as a bricklayer for many years and was a member of the Bricklayers Union for 50 years. In his free time he enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding motorcycles, horses and four-wheelers. Gary truly loved his children, grandchildren and he will be greatly missed.

Gary is survived by his children, Travis (Jennie Robins) Eggerth of Royalton, MN and Kyle (Kendra) Eggerth of Oakdale, MN; grandchildren, Destiny Eggerth, Jordie Eggerth and Tage Eggerth; siblings, Linda Scherping, David (Shirley) Eggerth, Sandra (Jerry) Moonen, Robert (Bonnie) Eggerth and Pamela (Al) Stumpf.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Parenell and Margaret Eggerth.

Roger Scott Sprague

There will be a visitation from 11:00 AM-3:00 PM Saturday, April 27, 2024 at the Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Stein Chapel in Long Prairie to celebrate the life of Roger Sprague who passed away on April 8, 2024 at CentraCare Hospital in Long Prairie.

Roger was born May 14, 1960 to Merle and Donna (Petersen) Sprague in Minneapolis. As a kid he was an avid hockey player and spent a lot of time camping with his family. In his Junior High years, he looked forward to hanging out with Swanville friends. He graduated from Park Center High School in Brooklyn Park in 1978 and went to work as a lithographer at Weston Engraving. Changes in the printing industry motivated him to go back to school to become a licensed commercial electrician. He enjoyed and took pride in his work with the IBEW 292 until his retirement at age 59.

On September 17, 1983, Roger married Susan Wellik at Saint Patrick's Catholic Church in Britt, IA. Together they raised two boys, Dustin and Josh. Countless weekends were spent at their cabin in Long Prairie where they enjoyed hunting and snowmobiling. They later welcomed Cheyenne, Kristin and two beautiful grandchildren, Mason and Ava to their family. Long Prairie was where they were able to build their forever home to enjoy retirement.

Roger loved being outdoors no matter what the season. He looked forward to each of the seasons, deer, pheasant or turkey seasons as well as snowmobiling season. Sharing his passion for hunting with his sons and grandchildren gave him great pleasure. One of his proudest moments was to see both sons shoot a deer last season and to be able to share the excitement with his grandchildren.

Roger will be deeply missed by his wife of 40 years, Sue; sons, Dustin (Cheyenne) of Burtrum, MN and Josh (Kristin) of Watertown, MN; grandchildren, Mason and Ava; brother, Duane (Cindy) Sprague of South Haven and sister Carol (Dave) Puffer of Andover.

He is preceded in death by his parents Merle and Donna Sprague.

Swanville High School to present spring play: The Dummest Play Ever

Swanville

preparing to perform their spring play, The Dummest Play

Ever written by Brian D. Taylor. This comedy presents a variety of scenes that are sure to bring smiles to audience members' faces. The joy and frivolity may even make them shake their heads.

Don't miss this fun evening of entertainment. The students will perform Sunday and Monday, April 28 & 29 at 7 p.m. in the Swanville High School auditorium.

This show is produced by special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Service, Inc., Denver, Colorado. Admission fee for adults and students, senior citizens are free.

Expect delays on Highway 10 in Little Falls as roadwork begins April 22

Motorists who travel on Highway 10 through Little Falls, Morrison County, will encounter lane closures and delays as roadwork begins Monday, April 22, reports the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

MnDOT will replace guardrail; re-establish gravel shoulders; and resurface both directions of mainline, shoulders and accesses to/from Highway 10 between east of Little Falls at County Road 35 to west of the Mississippi River at County Road 52.

Here’s what to expect April 22 to early July: Single-lane closures on both directions with lane shifts and reduced speeds (Monday morning until noon Friday)

Watch signs and expect the work zone to change throughout the day

Ramps done under traffic or overnight

MnDOT advises travelers to always slow down when approaching every work zone, then navigate through with care and caution. Other reminders:

Never enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones

Stay alert; work zones constantly change

Watch for workers and slow-moving equipment

Obey posted speed limits; fine for a work zone violation is $300

Minimize distractions behind the wheel

Anderson Brothers is the contractor for the $5.5 million project that will provide smoother road surfaces, reduce maintenance costs and improve motorist safety.

For more information, contact MnDOT Construction Project Manager Nathan Walton at nathan.walton@state.mn.us or 218-537-3144; or visit the Highway 10 web page at mndot.gov/d3/ projects/littlefalls/.

For current road conditions and detours on Minnesota highways, visit 511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.

Lakeshore property owners learn management of shoreline

By Robert Kutter

The Big Birch Lake Association and the Little Birch Lake Association collaborated to offer the second annual Little Birch and Big Birch Education Day on April 13.

The half-day event featured topics related to lake members’ properties and lake resources. Wes Olmschenk from Minnesota Native Landscapes Ecological Restoration and Landscape Company talked about the benefits of native plants. Their deep roots help stabilize shorelines preventing runoff from reaching the water thus reducing the amount of phosphorus that enters the water. The phosphorus fertilizes the plant growth in the water. Olmschenk identified many plants that are good for shorelines pointing out that a mixture of native and non-natives plants may be used.

Studying the pathways of water on a property is important in determining the types of shorelines planting one can use including rain gardens.

Adam Ossefoort, with Todd County Planning and Zoning, spoke about shoreland zoning and explained the reasons for regulations. Shoreland, for zoning purposes, is all property that is located 1000 feet from the shore of a body of water.

Ossefoort explained the types of permits needed to change a shoreline including building permits. Variances to the laws, requested by property owners, may or may not be granted based on reasons for the requests. For example, requesting a variance to build 75 feet from the shore may be granted if there are valid reasons that the property owner cannot meet the standard 100-foot setback.

Deja Anton, also with Todd County Planning and Zoning, explained the shift lakeshore property owners are making about understanding how shoreline naturalizing improves the quality of water. A green fertilized lawn to the water’s edge is not a healthy shoreline.

Anton explained how phosphorus is a naturally occurring element that comes from many sources including animals, fertilizers, septic sys-

tems and from the earth itself. Since the goal is to keep phosphorus out of the lake water, she recommended assessing property by taking a walk in the rain and observe where the water goes. Then determine whether the property has effective drainage. Swails, rain gardens, rain barrels, French drains can be used to improve drainage. Trees also are a good means to retain a shoreline and a typical tree can hold 332 gallons of water.

Determining soil type and soil compaction are additional measures to improve property drainage. Even a grass lawn can act like an impervious surface.

The Todd County Soil and Water Conservation District will cover 75 percent of the cost of a shoreline restoration project.

The event held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grey Eagle drew about 50 people with 36 percent from Big Birch Lake, 59 percent from Little Birch Lake and five percent from elsewhere.

•

Grey Eagle Burtrum Lions recently donated $1000 to the Long Prairie Grey Eagle Elementary Color Run. Color Run proceeds helps the Elementary provide many educational activities for the students. The Run will be held on May 10, 2024 at the Long Prairie Grey Eagle Track complex. The whole elementary student body, the secondary National Honor Society, Student Council, and other secondary students and staff will help make this a stupendous event/fundraiser for the students. You may donate funds to the students by calling the school. All donations are greatly appreciated. On hand for the photo is Ms. Katie Lieser, some second graders who will be participating in the Color Run and Lion Linda Gohman.

Cast members (front from left) Payton Priebe, Marshall Hollerman, Lexis Brever, Violet Peterson, Emily Ambriz, Kyleigh Opatz; (back) Carter Proell, Mya Proell, Kaleb Bellefeuille, Milo Hutchins, Matea Allen, Maci Allen, and Lydia Tepley. Not pictured: Morgan Bellefeuille, Travis Bellefeuille, Jasmine Johnson, Lara Baggenstoss, and Shelby Barber.

students are

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 have a roommate, and we’ve shared the same two-bedroom apartment for about three years.

During that time, we’ve always had an agreement that we would split the bills fifty-fifty. But for the last several months, he’s been very late paying his half of the bills. There have even been a few times when he didn’t pay his part at all, and I had to cover the entire bill. We both work good jobs, so money isn’t an issue. He says he’s broke, but when I ask him where all his money goes, he just shrugs and acts like he doesn’t know. We’re good friends, so I don’t want to be cruel. How can I approach him about the situation?

-Mikhail

Dear Mikhail,

No matter whether you’re talking about friendships or business dealings, to be unclear is to be unkind. Believe me, I understand you don’t want to be mean to a friend. But situations like this should always be addressed directly and quickly, before things get out of hand.

You said you were good friends, and not just roommates, right? My advice is to suggest a night where you both just hang out at the apartment. Offer to pay for dinner to be delivered, and just relax and watch a movie or a game together. Before the night’s over, tell him there’s something you’ve been wanting to talk

to him about, and begin an understanding—but firm—conversation-about the last few months and the situation with the bills. Let him know he’s a good friend, and you enjoy his company, but the roommate agreement isn’t working out because he’s not living up to his agreement to pay half the bills. Give him every chance to give a reasonable explanation for things, but make sure he understands that you two aren’t going to be able to be roommates much longer unless he starts paying on time.

Being understanding is key in a situation like this, Mikhail. You don’t want to approach him with a bunch of accusations, but at the same time, you need to know what’s going on. Maybe he needs help learning to budget money properly. You said both of you have good jobs, so that means his money has to be going somewhere. The problem is it sounds like it’s not going to the right places.

When a friend is having a rough time, you should always do what you reasonably can do to help. But in this case, he’s got obligations he needs—and agreed—to live up to. Do what you can, but in the end, he should understand it’s time for him to get his act together.

-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. 22: Shepherd's pie, green beans, applesauce.

Tues., Apr. 23: Western chili, broccoli, peaches, breadstick.

Wed., Apr. 24: Baked chicken, O'Brien potatoes, glazed carrots.

Thurs., Apr. 25: Pork tenderloin, whipped potatoes, gravy, vegetable blend.

Fri., Apr. 26: Swedish meatballs over noodles, mixed vegetables, pineapple. Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.

Ask The Motor Medics®

Dear Motor Medics, Hi guys, I drive a 2010 GMC van with a 5.3 engine. The van is a custom AWD 2500 with a snowplow on the front and I’ve just reached 150k miles. This van ran perfectly, and I have been careful on the maintenance of changing engine oil every 3k miles and servicing the transmission and the differentials and transfer case several times already. I know this vehicle very well and know for a fact that it has used no oil in the past so when it suddenly started using a quart a week I was concerned. It smokes from the exhaust also but only after I drive on the highway for several miles then shut it off and restart. A mechanic says I need an engine. What are your thoughts.

-Lynn in Thayer, Missouri

Dear Lynn,

Without a hands-on check it would have us leaning towards a much cheaper repair. These engines are not known to be oil burners and have an inherent problem with the drivers side PCV valve cover. The cover clogs with oil sludge and will suddenly develop these symptoms. There is an updated cover available to fix this and a replacement engine should also get one before installation. In our own shop, if we found oil in the PCV hose we would replace the cover first and see if the issue goes away. Highway speeds cause extra oil to build up in the cover which can be sucked in.

-Take care, the Motor Medics

Dear Motor Medics,

I have a 2018 Toyota Prius that we have driven for over 250k miles. I bought the car new and drove it for work making deliveries on the highway with an average of 100 miles a day.

From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show. www.pooptruck.com

When it reached 250k we decided that we should replace it for reliability issues. We handed it down to our son to drive to high school and he had it for two months and it started knocking. Upon taking it to a shop they told us the engine needed to be replaced. It is full of clean oil and coolant and was working perfectly until the day before when the check engine light started flashing during a rainstorm. He stopped driving it immediately. The shop didn’t bring it in, they just started it and said it was bad. What are your thoughts?

-Jeff in Oklahoma City

Dear Jeff,

We have listened to cars before and declared them as having one kind of failure or another, but this is a car that can give a false impression to a mechanic. A flashing check engine light means stop immediately due to an engine misfire. If it occurs in the rain, we lean towards a coil issue caused by wear and water. When this happens on a Prius, they knock loudly at takeoff due to the stator in the electric drive. If it is quiet but missing down the road, we would check this first. -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

Grey Eagle City • March 12, 2024

The regular meeting of the Grey Eagle City Council was called to order by Mayor Joseph Arnzen at 7:00 pm on the 12th day of March 2024 in Council Chambers. Council members present were Brad Johnson, Brian Hollenkamp, Chris Browen and Roland Ahrendt. There were no council members absent. Also in attendance were Dan Berscheid, Beth Ramacher and guests: Blaine Green, Ana Juarez and Carlos Ramirez.

A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the agenda. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to approve the minutes of the February 13th meeting. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

Brian Koehn discussed the 2023 audit. A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve and submit the audit. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

Blaine Green from Widseth was present to discuss street improvement options and approximate costs. The streets are not candidates for overlay; they could possibly be reclaimed for an estimated $437,000 or reconstructed for over $800,000.

Ana Juarez & Carlos Ramirez were present to request a building permit to build a garage north of their house. A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve combining their two parcels with Todd County and once combined the building permit application is approved. A second was made by Chris Browen and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

The current cost of a set of turnout gear is approximately $3400; this includes pants, jacket and helmet. A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the purchase of 4 sets. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

Discussion was held on Vance Johnson combining his three parcels into one. The Council denied the request at this time.

A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to have 911 signs from Todd County installed at the two parks: 318 Maple Street North and 204 Jackson Street East. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

A quote was received from Team Lab for spraying the ponds in 2024. The Council requested quotes from Terrain Aesthetics as well. Both quotes will be reviewed at the April meeting.

The council would like to have a quote from Herdering to fix/re-lay the concrete slabs at the boat landing on Bass Lake.

A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve the quote from First Rate Glass in Villard to make and install a new windshield for the John Deere snowblower. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The council requested a second quote from Woller Equipment in Upsala to fix the fuel tank and gauge.

The 75% completion report for the Old Village Hall assessment from MacDonald & Mac

Architects was discussed. Minnesota DOT has been contacted about painting the crosswalks on Highway 28. The City of Sauk Centre has been contacted for a quote for street sweeping. Utility billing adjustments were discussed; more discussion to be held at the April meeting. Street banners and photography for the website were also discussed.

A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2024-09: Accepting $100 Donation from Viola & Michael Fogel for the Grey Eagle Fire Department. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:

RESOLUTION NO. 2024-09: A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING $100 DONATION FROM VIOLA & MICHAEL FOGEL FOR THE GREY EAGLE FIRE DEPARTMENT

WHEREAS, money has been donated by Viola & Michael Fogel; and

WHEREAS, the City Council feels that the donation will benefit citizens of the area;

1. That the City Council of the City of Grey Eagle formally accepts the donation from Viola & Michael Fogel for the Fire Department.

2. That the City Clerk is authorized and directed to make the appropriate revenue and expenditure budget adjustments as needed to reflect this donation and its intended use.

Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 12th day of March 2024.

A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve the transfer of $70,334.18 from the Sewer Fund to the Capital Project Fund for the 2023 principal and interest payments. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the transfer of $7694.26 from the General Fund to the Capital Project Fund. A second was made by Chris Browen and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

A motion was made by Brad Johnson to close the Park Fund and transfer $52,267.69 from the Park Capital Project Fund to the General Fund. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to close the Sewer Rehab Fund, for external reporting only, and transfer $66,857.75 from the Capital Project Fund to Sewer Fund. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

A motion was made by Bian Hollenkamp to approve payment of Claims #3008-3037, totaling $50,474.54 and include additional payments of the following: MN Power $2704.26 and Gary Waldvogel $127.00. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to adjourn the meeting at 8:42 pm. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.

The next regular meeting of the Grey Eagle City Council will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 in Council Chambers.

Beth Ramacher, Clerk/Treasurer

Burnhamville Township Residents and Landowners Dust Control for 2024

Burnhamville Township will be applying a dust abatement product on township roads where requested by residents. The cost is $ .95 per foot. The township will pay half and the requesting property owner will pay half the cost.

Call by May 10, 2024 to be put on the list.

Payment must be received before spray is applied

Interested residents may contact the clerk at 320-285-2050. You may also send check directly to: Burnhamville Township, 33624 170th St., Burtrum MN 56318.

Shirley Hulinsky, Burnhamville Township Clerk

GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP DUST CONTROL

Grey Eagle Township will be contracting for dust abatement treatment of gravel roads for the 2024 season. Magnesium Chloride Road Saver will be applied at the cost to the property owner of $47.50 per hundred feet by 18 ft. Cost sharing for 2024 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

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

By Cassandra Ortiz

Each year, millions of people suffer the direct physical, financial, and emotional impact of crime victimization. Being a victim of a crime can be a very difficult and stressful experience. Victims may need to seek help and support from friends, family, their community, or a victim assistance professional.

According to the Office for Victims of Crime, since 1981, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) is an annual observance in April that brings communities together and raises awareness about victims’ rights, protections, and services. This is an opportunity to honor survivors and advocate for them. It’s also about recognizing organizations that have been fighting for victims’ rights for decades, establishing new partnerships to better serve and support victims of crime, and strengthening existing partnerships.

This year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week: April 21-27, 2024, theme is “How Would You Help? Options, Services, and Hope for Crime Survivors” which asks all of us—friends, family members, neighbors, colleagues, community leaders, victim service providers, criminal justice practitioners, and health professionals—how we can help crime victims. Are you prepared if someone confides in you about a vic-

Brian’s

Painting

Interiors, Exteriors, Staining, Varnishing

Brian Middendorf

320-293-9939 40 Years Experience

timization? Is your organization victim-centered and trauma-informed? Are you familiar with the services available in your community? We call upon communities to commit to creating an environment where survivors have the confidence that they will be heard, helped, and supported.

If you are a victim of a crime, or would like additional information regarding victim rights, please contact Hands of Hope Resource Center at 320-732-2319.

Local Library Events

Grey Eagle Library • 320-285-2505

Intro to Raising Quail: Learn about different types of quail and the basics on how to raise them yourself. Examples of equipment and supplies needed will be shown and quail chicks to hold. Coturnix quail are a great dual purpose poultry option because they don’t require much space, are relatively quiet and reach maturity very quickly. Presented by Crow River Quail Farm. For all ages. Wednesday, April 24: 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Long Prairie Library • 320-732-2332

Pine Grove Zoo at the Library Part 2: Animals, Books, and Artifacts OH MY! For all ages. Monday, April 22: 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Upsala Library • 320-412-2048

Spring Storytime with Miss Jennifer. Decorate a pot for planting, match letters, and enjoy a snack. For ages 3 to 8 and their families. Limit 24. Tuesday, April 23: 3:30-4:15 p.m.

RJ's Country Store

28916 County Rd. 17 - St. Rosa 320-836-2583

Exchange

TUXEDO RENTAL

Starting at $99.95

PROM FLOWERS

Fresh or Silk

Chris' Country Store Floral & Gift

105 State St. E. Grey Eagle

LOST: Key fob between the Rock Tavern and Swanville. Has one key attached. Call 320-250-8965. 5/3

HELP WANTED: Front counter/butcher position. Apply in person at Elmdale Creamery & Locker or call for details, 320573-2607.

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

WANTED: Machinery for scrap or salvage specializing in combines and old buildings. Call 320-292-8993.

FOR SALE: Black Angus beef bull. Call 320-250-0052.

FOR SALE: Jointer planer, air compressor w/75 ft. hose, air impact wrenches, 3 CBs. 320-260-2159 MT-tfn

FOR SALE: Full motion wall mount for medium flat panel TVs 15"-40", extends to 20", new. Call 320-249-1051.

FOR SALE: Black Lab puppies, 9 weeks old, males $200, females $250. Call 320836-2899.

FOR SALE: Electric Grain Master Whisper mill grinder to grind flour, new. Call 320836-2640.

FOR SALE: 2003 Dodge Dakota pickup with topper, 2 door, 4x4, $3,000. For more info. call 320-533-0975. 4/25

FOR SALE: Silver pheasant hen. Call 320250-7331, please no text.

FOR SALE: Cuisinart 2 slice stainless steel toaster, used very short time, like new, $25. Call 320-894-9118.

FOR SALE: Antique copper Ibrik Turkish coffee maker, $30. Text for pictures 320815-1768.

FOR SALE: 1994 Corvet, 60,000 miles, new tires, car is like new, $16,000. Call 320-290-0924. 4/25 www.sytekcom.com

• If your computer does not have wireless capabilities, additional equipment may need to be purchased. Visiting

through ebill. A $2/month surcharge will apply if invoice is mailed.

and will be refunded after 12 months of on time payments, this in addition to the non-refundable install fee

Bowlus,

You may qualify for a discount on your telephone or internet bill. Visit https://www.usac.org/lifeline/consumer-eligibility/ to see if you qualify!

ST. MARTIN: Spring city-wide garage sales, Fri. & Sat., April 26-27. Watch for balloons.

A grandmother sent her grandson a shirt for his birthday. The only trouble was that he had a size 14 neck and the shirt was size 12.

When the grandson sent a thank you note, he wrote, "Dear Grandma. Thanks a lot for the shirt. I'd write more, but I'm all choked up."