“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
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Toppings 50¢ each; Bacon 50¢ Slice
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• 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
Cures and
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Hometown News • Thursday, April 18, 2024 • Page 3
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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.
Page 4 • Hometown News • Thursday, April 18, 2024
Obituaries
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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.
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Hometown News • Thursday, April 18, 2024 • Page 5
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
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Onion Sets
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.
Page 6 • Hometown News • Thursday, April 18, 2024
Sudoku
Word Search Answers from April 11
320-632-8894 MPCA Licensed • Bonded • Insured Upsala, MN New Customer & Referral Discounts Can keep truck off most lawns (185 ft. hose) LLC Tom Kuehne Insurance 320-360-0343 tom@swanvilleinsurance.com
Kirt Olson (owner)
ACCEPTING VENISON TRIMMINGS FOR SAUSAGE Sudoku Answers from April 11 DK’S Tree & Landscaping, LLC. 320-630-0670 - David Kuhl Free Estimates, Fully Insured Swanville • www.dkstree.com Accept VISA, Discover or Master Card Trim & Remove Trees, 70 ft. Boom, Brush Removal, Stump Grinding & Removal,Hedge Trimming, Firewood Available Including Delivery, Residential Landscaping & Bobcat Work 124 2nd St NE, Little Falls, MN 56345 320-639-2453 Mon.-Fri.: 9 AM-6 PM; Sat. 9 AM-2 PM Friendly Small Town Service! 613 1st St. S. Long Prairie, MN PRAIRIE WOODS LAUNDRY OPEN 24/7
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
Hometown News • Thursday, April 18, 2024 • Page 7
Minutes to htnews@icloud.com
Email
•
Hours: Mon.-Fri.: 10:30-3:30, Sat.: 8-2 or by Appointment
Memorials • Sympathy • All Occasions
Gas/Diesel/Premium • Propane
Groceries • Pep's Pork • Schaefer's Market Harry's Pizza • Bait
ATM
•
Floral Arrangements in a 20 mile radius.
We Deliver
• 320-285-2600 Order 24/7 @ www.flowershopnetwork.com
Out Our THRIFT SHOP!
Vendors Clothing & More! Always something new!
Check
13
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."
Page 8 • Hometown News • Thursday, April 18, 2024 ACTOR AEROPLANES AGAIN ASSUMED CATCHES CHOIR COLLECT COMES CONTRIBUTION DAILY DISEASE DISPUTE DRESSED ECHOED EXHAUST EXIST EXPECT EXPORTS FORGIVE GAUGE GEARS GRAIN HANGS HEIGHTS ISSUES LEGEND MATCH MILKY MUSIC OPERA PANEL POSTED RAISE RELATIONSHIP RIDES RIOTS ROOMS RULES SHARK SHEEP
INTERNET ONLY HIGH SPEED FIBER RESIDENTIAL BUSINESS $77.75 $ 87 .75 PER MONTH PER MONTH Up to 1 GB with Unlimited Data Fiber to the Home (FTTH) We Have You Covered! Owned by UCTA 320-573-1390 • 888-573-1390 117 South Main Street PO Box 277, Upsala, MN 56384 One-Time Installation Fees: • $100 existing fiber customer - or free with 12-month contract
$1200 new fiber customer or free with 24-month contract
A $100 deposit is required
•
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Distant
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Family?
Learning?
From Home?
the
wireless router.
Billing
Serving Upsala,
Flensburg, Sobieski, Swanville and Surrounding Areas Get
latest and the greatest Fiber To The Home high speed internet service! • Includes a modem with a
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ROOFING,
SHIPS SHOWED SNAKE SPINE STRAP THEIR THUNDER TUBES TWIST UNCLE
YOUR COMPLETE FARM & HOME STORE www.fleetsupplymn.com Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:00am-7:00pm; Sat. 8:00am-6:00pm; Sun. 10:00am-4:00pm Little Falls: Mon.-Sat. 8:00am-8:00pm; Sun. 9:00am-5:00pm Long Prairie: Mon.-Fri. 8:00am-7:00pm; Sat. 8:00am-6:00pm; Sunday 10:00am-4:00pm Faribault: Mon.-Fri. 7:00am-7:00pm; Sat. 8:00am-6:00pm: Sunday 10:00am-4:00pm SAUK CENTRE 1050 Centre St. 320-352-5261 LONG PRAIRIE Hwy. 71 South 320-732-6195 LIT TLE FALLS 1800 1st Ave. NE. 320-632-9240 PAYNESVILLE Hwy. 55 West 320-243-3556 GLENWOOD Hwy. 28 & 55 • 320-634-5209 GLENCOE Hwy 212- 3105 10th St. E. • 320-864-4304 FARIBAULT 80 Western Ave. • 507-334-3232 APRIL BARGAINS of the MONTH® NO SUBSTITUTIONS ON BOM ITEMS 6999 Gray Comfort Pro Rocker GCI Outdoor, LLC® #108122 1799 Green Thumb 5M Weed and Feed, Knox Fertilizer Co.® Easy to use. Apply when weeds are growing. #225487 599 Green Thumb Black Landscape Fabric 3’ x 5’. Master Garden Co.® Lets in water, air and nutrients, maintains soil moisture. Sustainable solution for weed control. #184803 3599 Zero-G Garden Hose, 50 ft. Teknor-Apex Co.® Lightweight, kink-free, flexible. #400150 SAVE $2 OR MORE 1499 YOUR CHOICE 16 Pk. AAA or AA Alkaline Batteries Duracell® Keeps batteries fresh and ready to use for 10 years. #137962, 137963 1399 Preen Weed Preventer, 5.625 lb. Lebanon Seaboard Seed Corp.® Prevents weeds up to months. Effective in all seasons. #689867 4999 Green Thumb 15M Weed and Feed, Knox Fertilizer Co.® Kills weeds while feeding your lawn. #225488 1599* Miracle Grow Potting Mix, 2 cu. ft., Scotts® Premium potting soil for indoor and outdoor container plants. #75652301 *$6 mail-in rebate. Limit 10, 4/1 - 4/30. 799 Green Thumb 10 Pattern Metal Nozzle Melnor Inc® Heavyweight metal spray nozzle, thumb flow control, rubberized comfort grip. #183651 Kutter Insurance Agency 107 Main Street, Grey Eagle Insuring cars, homes, boats, farms & recreational vehicles for the past 30 years! Ben B. Ettle FOR ALL YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS! 320-285-2299 Email: kutt@meltel.net 320-428-5611 ccsgstcloud@gmail.com Discounts for Seniors & Veterans TOP DOWN SILO LLC • Take down & cleanup of silos in congested areas • Mobile Concrete Crushing • Fully Insured 507-236-9446 topdownsilo.com FOR SALE: White pole barn steel, slightly hail damaged, $1.00 per foot or best offer for all. Call 320-836-2403.
Gift
BLENKERS
LLC 320-256-5400
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Funny