Lights Sunday night, August 11 at Little Birch Lake. Submitted by Nancy Bitz.
Hometown News
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Keep calling, keep caring, keep closing sales -By Harvey Mackay
A small business owner was in trouble with her sales, so she decided to call in an expert to give her an outsider’s viewpoint. After she had gone over her plans and problems, the business owner took the sales expert to a map on the wall and showed him brightly colored pins stuck wherever she had a salesperson.
“Now,” she asked the expert, “for a starter, what is the first thing we should do?”
a relationship. The more you interact with customers, the more likely they are to think of you when they need a product or service you offer. Regular contact keeps you at the forefront of the customer’s mind.
Each call can provide more insight into the customer’s needs and challenges. This information allows you to tailor your offerings and demonstrate how your product or service can solve their specific problems.
Multiple calls give customers a chance to provide feedback on previous interactions, products or services. This can guide your approach and improve customer satisfaction. Not every call will result in a sale, but persistence is a key in sales. It often takes several touchpoints before a customer is ready to buy.
that their satisfaction is important, even after the sale is done.
But he didn’t stop there. He also made it a point to ask the customer about their usual car ownership cycle and promised to reach out again in the future when it was time for a replacement. This approach not only sets the stage for a future sale but also keeps the door open for ongoing communication and potential referrals.
Moreover, he offered an incentive for referrals that resulted in sales, promising to donate to the customer’s favorite charity. This not only encourages the customer to refer others but also aligns the salesperson’s interests with a cause important to the customer, further strengthening the relationship.
MONDAYS • 5 PM
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“Well,” replied the expert, “the first thing is to take those pins out of the map and stick them in the salespeople.”
In other words, get them off their duffs and out there selling!
I recently saw a statistic that said:
• 2 percent of all sales are made on the first contact.
• 3 percent of all sales are made on the second contact.
• 5 percent of all sales are made on the third contact.
• 10 percent of all sales are made on the 4th contact.
• 80 percent of all sales are made on the 5th-12th contact.
Lesson: It pays to stay in touch with your customers.
A florist celebrating the 100th anniversary of his business was asked why his company was so successful. He responded: “I have one employee responsible to send out reminders on who-sent-what-to-whom last year at this time and many repeat orders are generated by this simple call.”
Calling on customers multiple times is crucial for many reasons. First, it builds
FRIDAY, AUGUST 16
Timing is everything in life. Customers buy on their schedule, not yours. Frequent calls increase the chance that you will reach them at the right time: when they are ready to make a decision. Even if a customer isn’t ready to buy, they might know someone who is. Regular calls can prompt them to refer you to others.
In addition, repeated calls help you develop resilience to rejection. The more you call, the better you become at handling objections and learning from each interaction. Ten setbacks are the going price for any worthwhile win. Analyze every failure, but never wallow in one.
Restauranteur Barbara Smith said, “I have stood on a mountain of nos for one yes.”
Remember, the key is not just to call often, but to make each call meaningful and respectful of the customer’s time. It is about finding the balance between being persistent and being a nuisance.
One example that comes to mind is the story of a car salesperson who understood the value of building a long-term relationship with his customers. After selling a car, he didn’t just consider the transaction complete; instead, he followed up with a phone call to ensure the customer was satisfied with their purchase. This is a critical step because it shows the customer
This salesperson’s strategy of multiple calls and thoughtful follow-up is a prime example of how persistence and genuine customer care can lead to repeat business and referrals, which are gold in the sales industry.
As sales strategist Rob Liano advises, “People don’t want to be sold, they want to be served.”
Mackay’s Moral: The fortune is in the follow-up.
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.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 17
• Dog Days of Summer Party from 3-8 p.m. at Harvest Chruch, Freeport.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 18
• Grey Eagle United Methodist Church to hold Church at Birch at 9 a.m. See ad on page 4.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21
• Grey Eagle Senior Center Meeting at 4 p.m. Potluck & Bingo to follow.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24
• Big Swan Lake Improvement District Annual Meeting at 10 a.m. at the Hub Supper Club, Burtrum.
SAT.-SUN., AUG. 24-25
• 16th Annual Central MN Heritage Club Heritage Days, Burtrum. See ad on page 7.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 25
• St. Francis of Assisi 68th Annual Fall Festival starting at 10 a.m. See ad on page 8.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 27
• Red Cross Blood Drive from 12-6 p.m. at Avon Community Church.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
• Car Show on Main Street, Grey Eagle. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
• Grey Eagle/Burtrum Lions Tractor Pull starting at 11 a.m. at the Lions Park, Grey Eagle.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apart-
ments, Grey Eagle.
THURS.-SUN., SEPT. 12-15
• 50th Anniversary Albany Pioneer Days.
THURSDAYS THROUGH SEPT. 26
• Albany Farmers Market from 3-6 p.m. at the Miller Carlin parking lot. 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” -By Tom Kuehne
Just Stuff
Conversations with others sometimes result in a story that is new and in many cases, very interesting. Where these people get their information is varied. Sometimes it came from a news article, radio or TV story or in some cases the interesting idea is from information they had developed on their own. Farmers spend a lot of time driving machinery and solve many of their farm problems while working in the field.
One farmer told me that in 1960 he filled the back end of his pickup with 35 pound pigs, sold the pigs and took the money to the Chevy dealer and bought a new pickup. However, 20 years later he can take a pickup load of pigs to market, sell them and would have enough money to buy the 20 year old used pickup that he was driving. It's an interesting story, but I'm not sure the figures are correct. Another farmer said in 1955 he could sell two beef animals and buy a new pickup, but if he wanted to buy a new pickup today he would need 33 beef animals. Again, the figures are probably not exact, but they do represent ideas that reflect the inflation trends in our history. He probably wouldn't compare the milk prices in 1950 with today's prices.
Gas prices in 1950 were around $.27 per gallon and since then the price per gallon has increased 1300%, which includes about $.50 per gallon for state and federal taxes. In 1950 we didn't buy water, we just turned on the faucet, but today we are buying drinking water at a price that is the same as what we paid for pop not that long ago. The cost of pop has increased 213% in the last 5 years.
A tax that I find interesting is the tax based on how much water is being used by the farmer's irrigation system. Will the tax help pay for his new well if his quits working? Can the state create more ground water with the additional revenue?
Many people are complaining about the safety of Covid 19 shots. They are concerned that the drug companies have not spent enough time testing the results and repercussions of the shot. We are aware that the introduction of a foreign substance into our bodies may have positive effects, but also has a risk of negative effects.
While I'm telling primarily negative stories, I thought you would find another story from a friend interesting. China's retail businesses are quite different from ours. There are many small, rather specialized retail businesses. For instance, there are small grocery stores, shoe stores, clothing stores, hardware stores, all quite small and probably a block from a store offering the same retail items. They don't have Walmart or Target sized stores. I found it interesting that although these stores may have been owned and run by the same family for several generations, it is now not possible to pass the store to family members as an inheritance. At the death of the owner, the business is, at that time, owned by the government and under their control. Communism benefits the government and not the people in this case.
I hope you found some of these items interesting. If you are carrying around a story that may be interesting to our readers, please let me know.
For feedback or story ideas, email Tom at kuehneins@gmail.com.
If you need help with Health or Life Insurance or for
Senior Health Solutions Contact: Tom Kuehne 320-360-0343
From the Desk of Pastor Bruce
I think it’s amazing how fast crab grass grows. We did some yard work at church and didn’t get part of it leveled out right away. Within two weeks it was completely covered with a fine green carpet of crab grass. Matthew 13:29-30 “No, he answered, ‘because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. 30Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.” This is referring to the rapture of believers. We are only in this world for a short time, as far as heaven is concerned there are only two kinds of people. Forgiven and unforgiven. The forgiven will go to heaven and spend eternity with Jesus, but those who have refused God’s forgiveness by rejecting what He did on the cross will end up in hell.
In Matthew 13 Jesus gives us the parable of the Sower. Verse 22 says “The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.” So, can I just say here, in our world there are weeds and they grow fast. In our life, there are many things that can pull us away from a life of faith. Sin, unforgiveness,
Medicare Open Enrollment
By Tom Kuehne
The Medicare Open Enrollment will be starting in October. During Open Enrollment those who are currently covered by Medicare can review their coverage and pricing. Changing to another policy or carrier is allowed during this time.
It seems that every year Medicare beneficiaries get phone calls from various organizations asking about whether you are covered by Medicare and if you are aware of the special offers their organization can make. In a majority of the cases, those special offers are already included in your current policy. It's probably been a year since you have reviewed your policy and it's very possible that you don't remember every benefit covered by your policy.
Medicare is a Government program and as a result there are many rules and regulations,
both on the part of the beneficiaries and the agents. One of the rules that applies to agents and their employees is that the law prohibits them from making phone call solicitations or uninvited house calls to individuals that are not their customers.
If you are contacted in this illegal manner, please contact the CMS Website at http:// www.cms.gov/ManagedCareMarketing, www.medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). CMS is the organization that controls all of the Medicare programs and will follow up on your complaint.
The question is, if they are breaking the law to contact you and what other laws is the organization breaking.
I hope that you are doing well and able to tolerate unsolicited phone calls.
Grey Eagle United Methodist Church to Host Church at Birch on Sunday, August 18
The Grey Eagle United Methodist Church will host its annual “Church at Birch” worship service on Sunday, August 18, at 9 a.m. at John and Janet Roe’s residence at 11057 County #47, Grey Eagle. Following worship a potluck brunch will be served by members of the church.
selfishness, lying… and the list is endless.
We need to cultivate our hearts, putting good and righteousness in, getting rid of all impurities. We also need to disciple others, so they can produce godly fruit in their lives. Matthew 13:23 “But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”
-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
All are welcome to attend this outdoor worship and brunch fellowship. Communion will be served and is open to everyone. Do not plan to park at the worship site. Park in the church parking lot and shuttles will take you to the site.
Lower Level Bar Hours: Wed.-Fri.: 4-Close Sat. & Sun.: Noon-Close
Bring a guest and enjoy the morning. Coffee is available when you arrive. We are the church of open hearts, open minds and open doors.
Bavarian Gardens
Obituaries
James (Jim) Earl Loven
James (Jim)
Earl Loven passed away Saturday, July 20th, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family.
A prayer service and celebration of life will be held August 31st, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at the Lion's Park Building in Swanville, MN.
Jim was born June 6, 1946, to Bud and Cora (Joseph) Loven in Little Falls, MN. He was a life-long resident of Swanville and always felt it was the best place to grow-up, live and raise his family. He wore many hats, including body man, school bus driver and mechanic at Loven's Service. He had a zest for life and was known for his story telling about his many adventures, his ability to fix almost anything and most of all the times he spent with friends and family. He enjoyed everything "old," including old engines, old cars, and old country music. One of his greatest loves was spending time at the Boone Doon Sheep Ranch and was very proud that his sons and grandsons are carrying on that tradition.
Jim was united in marriage to DiAnn (Maciej) Loven for 57 years and they were blessed with four children. Lisa (Loven) Wallenfelsz, Jason (Jill) Loven, Kelly (Janelle) Loven, and Meghann Loven. Jim and DiAnn also have eight grandchildren, Jared and Alex (Evan) Wallenfelsz, Emily (Matt) Jelinski, Zach, Max, Alyssa, Maya, and Jack Loven as well as one great-grandson, Russell Wallenfelsz.
Jim is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandson, as well as his brother Dennis Loven, sisters Pam Wuchko and Pat Crosby and many beloved nieces and nephews.
He is proceeded in death by his parents and grandson Jared.
Josephine A. Rehkamp
Josephine A.
“Jo” Rehkamp, age 101 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Saturday, August 10, 2024, ten days shy of her 102nd birthday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Friday, August 16 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with Rev. Greg Paffel officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.
Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Sauk Centre and from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at the church. Parish prayers will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Josephine Ann Engelmeyer was born August 20, 1922 in St. Rosa, Minnesota to Stephen and Mary (Vornbrock) Engelmeyer. She was united in marriage to Leander “Lee” Rehkamp on October 20, 1947 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Melrose and they lived in Sauk Centre all of their married lives. Jo was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre. She enjoyed quilting at the Senior Center, playing cards, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include her daughters, Carol Ervasti of Sauk Rapids and Diane (Gregg) Kyllo of Otsego; daughter-in-law, Joyce Rehkamp of Albany; eight grandchildren and 17 greatgrandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Jo was preceded in death by her husband, Leander “Lee” Rehkamp on July 11, 1991; son, James “Jim” Rehkamp on March 15, 2024; brothers and sisters, Catharina, Christ, Theresia, Anna, Eleanor, Clara, Alphonse, John, Mary, Joseph, and Peter.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
NEVILLE HARDWARE
Charles Cebuhar
Charles "Chuck" Cebuhar died peacefully in Memory and Hospice Care at the VA in St. Cloud, MN. He was from Edina, MN., and formerly from Cedar Rapids, IA. He was born to Mary & Vincent Cebuhar in Rathbun, Iowa after they immigrated from Italy & Croatia.
After high school graduation, Chuck served in the US Army in Okinawa, Japan in WWII. He received a Purple Heart, the Bronze Star and numerous other awards.
Upon returning from Okinawa, he entered and graduated from the University of Iowa Law School. Chuck began his career with the IRS. He then went into banking; eventually owning, with his partners, United State Bank in Cedar Rapids. After retirement, he became CEO of the bankrupt Morris Plan. With his perseverance, he transitioned it into First Security Savings and Loan in Cedar Rapids, taking over the leadership of that bank as well. Chuck was very community minded, and served on the board of many organizations.
Chuck was a friend to many, and mentor to family, friends and associates. He was happiest when helping others, whether it be planting flowers and trees or working on a special project. He also enjoyed playing Bridge.
Chuck was a true gentleman. His life was as beautiful as the flowers that he loved. As a result of his positive personality, generous spirit and winning smile, he was loved and respected by a diverse group of individuals.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his nine siblings, and Marlene Cebuhar, the mother of his children.
He is survived by his loving wife and soul mate, Mary, and his children, Tony (Joni) and Mary (Tom Peremsky). He is also survived by his bonus children, Tim Lieder, Jon Lieder (Sharla), Bill Lieder (Renee) and Kristin Latuff (Brent). As well as nine bonus grandchildren and eleven bonus great grandchildren.
A family only Celebration Of Life will be held at Big Birch Lake, Grey Eagle, MN. Memorials in Chuck’s honor can be made to: The Westside Library. Please send to: Cedar Rapids Library C/O Charity Tyler, 450 5th Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401.
Church at Birch
Sunday, Aug. 18
Loren James Weick
Loren James Weick, 84 year old resident of Swanville, MN passed away peacefully on the morning of August 5, 2024, at his home in Swanville, MN. A Memorial Service was held Monday, August 12, 2024 at St. Peters Lutheran Church in Swanville.
Known for his compassion, generosity, humor, and incredible outdoorsmanship, Loren’s life was a testament to the joys of family, nature, and living life to the absolute fullest. Loren leaves us with a legacy of laughter and memories that will be cherished by all who’ve cast a line with him. Born October 31, 1939, on his family farm in Burtrum, MN, to the late Alice (Johnson) and Ed Weick. Loren began his career with Crestliner, testing the pre-market boats on the lakes of Minnesota. The majority of his career was spent turkey farming in Swanville, MN, where he raised his family on Long Lake. Loren “Gramps” was the light of his Grandchildren’s world, their Superfan who attended every game, performance, recital, and event that he could, along with carnival parades, secret road trips, bear traps, epic Easter baskets, and precisely timed birthday cards, he was simply the best Gramps we could ask for. Loren “the Angler” spent days, weeks, and sometimes months exploring the waters of Minnesota, Canada, Lake Michigan and beyond. From fishing trips to Kewaunee, WI, to the endless trips to Izzy’s on Lake of the Woods, and frozen waters of Red Lake, he was a true legend of his craft and the stories will live on across groups of friends, family, and the cafes he frequented. The fish can rest easy for a while. Loren was a valued member of his community of Swanville. He volunteered countless hours to the Lions Club and supported organizations meaningful to him. Loren was an avid poker player and one heck of a witty talker. He was loved dearly and will be missed by many while he is enjoying "no limits" in Heaven. Loren is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Betty Weick; brother, Dale Weick, and three children, Deb Lukasavitz (Jeff), Lori Thieschafer (Dan), and Jackie Vogt (Darren). His grandchildren, Brittany Johnson (Ryan), Tyler Thieschafer (Sheena), Jordan Thieschafer (Brooke), Braden, Lauren, Peyton, and Brynn as well as his great-grandchildren, Kinzie, Reid, Leo, Jax, Gia, Romee, Rex, and Baby T., were the joys of his world and the loves of his life.
was held Saturday, August 10. Parade was held in the afternoon. To view the
go to facebook.com/hometownnews/videos.
Saturday, August 10th.
Submitted by Jennifer Servatius
The Upsala-Swanville USA 13U Travel Baseball Team spent the weekend in Marshall at the 13U State Tournament, July 26-28. The boys represented our small towns proud! Friday they beat Watertown. Saturday they lost to Eastside (a few towns around Eagan) and took out Little Falls to advance to the top 8 teams Sunday. They faced a tough Marshall Black team which was the end of the road for them. Marshall Black ended up taking home the
Championship. In the end to have been taken out by the champs, finishing in the top 8 out of 24 teams and beating Little Falls (they had never won against them before) the boys held their heads high and were proud of all they accomplished! What a great weekend and season they had! We are all looking forward to next year! Keep an eye out for these kids - they are going to be very fun to watch as they grow up!
Pictured front from left: Will Schafer, Bennett Pilarski, Rylan Johnson, Owen Servatius, Jakson Blenker; (back) Reid Johnson, Jackson Kruchten, Bradon Lange, Owen Klug, Ethan Veldkamp, and Owen Schulte. Coached by BJ Lange, Izaak Schafer, and Corey Schulte.
Upsala Heritage Day: Bull riding at the park. Photos by Lori Young.
Upsala Heritage Day
parade,
The Grey Eagle Fire Department held their 36th Annual Corn on the Cob & Pork Feed
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, How do you feel about people taking money out of savings to pay off credit cards? I have an emergency fund in place, like you recommend, and a savings account. I also have about $5,000 in credit card debt. What’s your take on this?
-Kellye
Dear Kellye, Honestly, I’d rather see you pick up a side job nights or weekends. That’s not a ton of debt, and you could have it paid off in just two or three months with a decent part-time job. Plus, it’d keep your savings intact. But if you’re determined to do it your way, I’ll give you a couple of guidelines. Number one, don’t wipe out your savings to make this happen. The second? Cut up the credit cards, close the accounts and never go into debt again. Now, whatever you do, here’s something I want you to understand. And I need you to really hear me when I say this, ok? The credit cards aren’t the problem. The debt you’ve racked up on the credit cards isn’t really the problem, either. Both of those are just symptoms of buying things you don’t need, with money you don’t have, in order to make
yourself feel better momentarily, or impress other people.
Kellye, you won’t find the real problem until you take a good, long, honest look in the mirror. It’s you. You’re the problem. Whether it’s because of overspending, a lack of income or just simply being disorganized, you (and your behavior with money) are the problem.
I’m not trying to be mean, but do you get what I’m saying? Being successful with your finances is 80% behavior, and only 20% knowledge. Your everyday habits and mindset go a long, long way in determining whether you’ll live from paycheck-to-paycheck—and in debt—or gain control of your money and become a financial success.
Being broke and weighed down by debt is normal in today’s culture. If you’re not already doing this, and it sounds like you’re not, I want you to start living on a written, monthly budget. I’ve got a feeling you don’t know where your money’s going right now. Doing this, and giving every dollar of your income a job to do before the month begins, is the best way I know of to get control of your money.
Because if you don’t, a lack of money and planning will control you!
-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.
Dear Motor Medics,
My issue is with my 2013 Buick Encore Convenience. This car has been anything but a convenience. It has the 1.4 engine with a turbo, and I have replaced the turbocharger twice in 80k miles and in the past month I had to replace the entire engine due to oil burning. It now runs and drives like new again except for the check engine light. The light came on right after the engine was replaced so I took it right back and they said it was a failed catalytic converter which is not part of the engine and is a part that I must pay for. So, I had them install the least expensive one they could find and after two more they said it was the same thing. The dealer then installed a factory part for much more money, and it seems to work well. Why did the cheaper ones not work? Was it a possible installation issue?
Dear Curt,
-Curt in Maple Grove, Minnesota
We have seen more than our fair share of these in our own shop and have found that when the engine fails the convertor often is damaged by oil or coolant making it necessary to replace it. Our experience has shown us that we should stick with the OEM Factory GM part on this model of car if we want to be sure that we are trouble free. For some reason the aftermarkets have been problematic.
-Take care, the Motor Medics
Dear Motor Medics, Guys I have a 2012 Ram 3500 truck with the 5.7 Hemi engine, and it has a lot of noise. I put 150k trouble free miles on this truck changing the engine oil every 5k miles and have never overheated it. The truck is used to pull a landscaping trailer weighing about 8k pounds m-f then it hauls a boat or just gets the groceries on the weekends. I took it to the dealership where they say the cam and lifters have failed and that I’m looking at over 10k to install a remanufactured engine. The truck looks great and that’s cheaper than a new truck, but can you tell me what my options are for repairs and possibly why it failed?
-Julie in Tyler, Texas
changes on these trucks to protect the engine, but you may be getting it warm enough that it is not an issue. Monitor the oil condition closely once it’s fixed and maybe step them up. The cam and lifter failures are common and like we said, oil plays a big part but they can fail even with early oil changes. Shop around for engines. We have seen these installed for anywhere from 8k dollars to 11k or so with a 3-year 100k warranty and all about the same quality so it’s worth it to look around. The remanufactured is the most popular choice.
-Take care, the Motor Medics For entertainment only. Always consult your local shop and follow all safety procedures before repairs. Come visit the Motor Medics® online at Underthehoodshow.com.
Albany Senior Dining
Mon., Aug. 19: Shepherd's pie, green beans, applesauce, bread.
Tues., Aug. 20: Taco meat, shredded cheese, lettuce, Spanish rice, black beans, tortilla chips.
Wed., Aug. 21: Baked chicken, O'Brien potatoes, carrots, bread.
Thurs., Aug. 22: Lasagna roll ups, broccoli, Mandarin oranges, breadstick.
Fri., Aug. 23: Cheeseburger, sweet potato fries, pears.
Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
AUTO BODY
Dear Julie,
Usually we like to see less miles on the oil
Local Municipality Minutes
Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com
Burnhamville Township • June 25, 2024
The regular meeting of the Town Board of Burnhamville was held June 25, 2024 at the Burtrum Community Center. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Mike Berscheit. Members present include Supervisors Mike Berscheit, Bruce Johnson and Joe Muellner; Clerk Shirley Hulinsky and Treasurer Pam Throener. Also present were Erv Herdering and Alvin Giese
The minutes from the regular meeting of May 28, 2024 were approved on a motion by Sup. Johnson and second by Sup. Berscheit. Motion passed.
For correspondence the township received MAT cards & information on District meetings, state estimate for township population, road conditions concerns, May tax settlement and a phone call about a texting information company. The clerk will get more information on this service.
A motion was moved by Sup. Berscheit to pay all bills numbered 6644 through 6662 totaling $73,338.59. Sup. Muellner seconded the motion. Motion passed.
Alvin Giese was present to present a plat for township approval. He wants to purchase a parcel near Flicker Trail that the current owner wants to split off. After viewing plat proposal, Sup. Berscheit moved a motion to approve the subdividing plat. Sup. Johnson seconded the motion and upon vote motion passed.
At the regular May township meeting residents of Dunlin Road requested a special meeting to inform land owners and residents of costs of possible road improvements. The board gathered some information and requested some county officials to be there. Sup. Berscheit moved a motion to hold a special meeting on July 16, 2024 at 7 pm at the Burtrum Community Center to discuss possible road improvements and costs for Dunlin Road. Motion was seconded by Sup. Johnson. Motion passed. The clerk will post, publish and send letters to property owners on both sides of Dunlin Road.
With the state primary election on August 13, 2024 Sup. Johnson moved a motion to appoint Bonnie Alsleben, Brenda Schwanke, Chuck Macy, Mike Holmgren, Jan Lind, Pam Throener and Shirley Hulinsky as election judges with Shirley as head judge and Pam as back-up, pending completion of election judge training. Motion was seconded by Sup. Muellner. Motion passed.
In the road report contractor has dust control almost finished after he did a lot of gravel work first. Beavers are plugging culvert by Buck Lake again. Supervisor Muellner will check screen and watch water conditions. Supervisor Berscheit checked Emerald Trail again and straw bales helped, but some washing occurred before buffer grew in place. He will add more straw as needed. Contractor will add more gravel to Flicker Trail cul-de-sac. Supervisor will get tree contractor to trim trees leaning onto Flicker Road. There are damages on Cranberry Dr and 341st Ave due to all terrain vehicles ripping up road.
Supervisors will continue with weed inspection and do some spraying for noxious weeds.
Two supervisors will be out of state later this month. Sup. Johnson moved a motion to move the July regular meeting to Wednesday, July 31st at the regular time. Sup. Berscheit seconded the motion. Upon vote motion passed. Clerk will post and publish notice.
The Treasurer’s report shows balance of $166,672.77 after receiving the May tax settlement. Report approved on a motion by Sup. Berscheit and second by Sup. Johnson. Motion passed.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:50 p.m. on a motion by Sup. Berscheit and a second by Sup. Muellner. Next regular meeting will be on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 7 pm in the Burtrum Community Center. Board members will also hold special meeting on Tuesday, July 16, 2024
at 7 pm. Shirley Hulinsky, Burnhamville Township Clerk
Burnhamville Township • July 16, 2024
Burnhamville Township board held a special meeting on July 16, 2024 at 7 pm in the Burtrum Community Center. The meeting was called to order by Chair Mike Berscheit. Board members present included Mike Berscheit, Bruce Johnson, Joe Muellner and Shirley Hulinsky. Others present included Loren Fellbaum, Todd Co Public Works; Kasen Christiansen, Todd Co SWCD; Jeremy Freudenrich, Gary Opatz, Jordy Opatz, Steve Brown, Lorna Lemke, Gerald Lemke, Nancy Hougenhous, John Hougenhous, Tracy Zimmerich on behalf of Forbergs, Ruth Purkapile, Dennis M. & Cathy Miller, Jennifer Meier, Scott Hoium, Karen Ness, Jean DeZeeuw.
Sup. Mike Berscheit stated the purpose of the special meeting was to get information to the board, residents and land owners on costs of possible improvements on Dunlin Road and gather input from residents and land owners.
Loren Fellbaum from Todd County Public Works spoke about the road including the description, size and maintenance stating that the road is in very good shape. He presented a handout detailing five options for improvements. First option is dust control the whole road, which is what is being done now. Second option is a three inch lift of recycled asphalt. Third option is a three inch asphalt surfacing. The fourth option includes a three and a half inch asphalt surfacing. Fifth option includes three and a half inch asphalt topping with curb and gutter in some areas. Options 3,4,5 would be a seven ton design. Township would also need to cut trees and clean ditches for these improvements. If new asphalt was done the township would have to hire an engineer and administrator to handle the design and paper work of doing sealed public bids. The costs given in the hand outs were estimates and he estimates adding 4% each year to these estimates. He also warned residents traffic will travel faster on the improved roads.
The township would have to take out a loan to do the project. The cost of the project can be put on residents’ taxes over a period time, such as 10 years. The board will need to decide how to split costs among lots. If someone owns more lots, they may have to pay a share for each lot. This will be configured later.
Todd County Soil & Water Conservation District representative Kasen Christiansen discussed Long Lake is a high priority to keep clean. The asphalt will increase speed of run off. SWCD suggest changing grade of road 3% to funnel water toward catch basin. There may be funding to help with costs for catch basin.
Questions included: Road restrictions will be for 7 ton, but residents are concerned about semis and heavy equipment. Township would be responsible for potholes and other repairs. Life expectancy of asphalt is 20 years and recycled material is approximately 7-8 years. Weight and speed restrictions were discussed, however this area is already posted at 30 MPH. Speed bumps are discouraged as they are loud and liability issues of car damages. Resident commented that dust control not sprayed as wide this year, Loren commented usually it bleeds to edges, but rain can affect the quality of spray.
Maintenance of catch basin was discussed. Township has plans to clean it out, but it is actually on private property and need to get owner’s permission and good weather to do it.
If asphalt was done residents will have to raise their driveways at their own costs.
One resident questioned why do asphalt or is there a problem that needs to get fixed. Board
commented there is not a specific problem but that some residents commented on control of dust and improve appearance.
How does this go forward? Board will decide at next meeting, possibly do a survey of land owners. Township would need to explain costs to land owners not at hearing. Public financer or hired administrator/engineer to evaluate costs including loan expenses.
Run off concerns were discussed and stated that anything added to the road will contribute to run off.
Can road be widened for walkers? Loren stated that costs will be tripled for extra engineering and purchasing more land.
Speed concerns especially with all-terrain vehicles on nice road.
If do dust control, can we have all residents pay instead of just some?
Resident asked about grants. Loren stated there are two ways to apply for grants to fix up local roads. First requires access to state park or camp ground, but this does not apply here. Second is Local Road Improvement Program from the state, however this is not a high priority road so low chance to get grant.
Resident asked if erosion on road can be delt with separately. SWCD stated that crush concrete helps. Gravel next to curb will not work as gravel will plug up culvert. SWCD can look at more options.
Opinions of need vary. It was suggested that less than 50% of landowners were year-round residents.
The township board wants to know the opin-
Red Cross Blood Drive in Avon
Red Cross Blood Drive will be held Tuesday, Aug 27 from noon to 6 p.m. at Avon Community Church, 204 Avon Ave. North, Avon
Sign up at redcrossblood.org or text/call 320-248-3375.
ion of land owners so they will send out survey to better understand wants of land owners. Sup. Berscheit adjourned the meeting at 8:05 pm. Shirley Hulinsky, Burnhamville Township Clerk
Stearns Co. Sheriff’s Office
Crash: August 3, 2024: At approximately 4:31 p.m., the Stearns County Emergency Communications Center received a call of a single vehicle which left the roadway and struck a power pole on County Road 10 near Pioneer View Road in Albany Township.
Upon arrival deputies located a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Jamie John Bischof, 48, of Eden Valley. Bischof said he was reaching for an item in the vehicle prior to leaving the roadway. The vehicle left County Road 10, hit the approach of Pioneer View Road, then struck the power pole before coming to a stop in an open field on the east side of County Road 10. Bischof was treated by Melrose Ambulance and Mayo Ambulance before being transported by North Memorial Air Care for advanced medical care. Xcel Energy was called to replace the badly damaged pole which left power lines dangerously low to the ground on County Road 10 and Pioneer View Road.
The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene as well as the Albany Police Department, Albany Fire Department, Melrose Ambulance, Mayo Ambulance, and North Memorial Air.
GARAGE SALE: August 15-17: 8:003:00. Tools, benches, end tables, Blue Ox tow bar, Reeses 5th wheel hitch, swing, kids stuff, dishes, glassware, kettles, small refrigerator, lots misc. 514 Blaine Ave. S., Burtrum.
GARAGE SALE: August 15-17. Thursday and Friday 7am-6pm. Saturday 8am-Noon. China hutch, kitchen table, full size bedroom set, coffee table, humidifier, lamps, card tables and chairs, lawn chairs, household items including dishes, Christmas decor, Avon bottles, carpentry tools, women clothes, medium to junior boys clothes, junior girl clothes, craft and stamping items. 210 Mustang Lane NE, Melrose.
GARAGE SALE: Aug. 15: 3-6pm; Aug. 16: 9-6pm; Aug. 17: 9-12pm. 24288 Marquette, Long Prairie. Farm behind high school.
WANTED TO BUY: Butcher cows, bulls, fats & walkable cripples: also horses, sheep & goats. 320-235-2664. SC-odB
FOR SALE: Air impact wrenches, 3 CBs: 1 Cobra 19, 1 Galaxy 959, 1 General Lee, 1 set of 17" tire chains, new in the box. 320260-2159 MT-tfn
FOR SALE: Vibo boat lift, holds 2400 lbs., needs new canopy, $750. Call 320-2854495. tfn
FOR SALE: 1984 Corvette, 102,000 miles, top comes off, $8,000. Call 320-267-5632. tfn-RB
FOR SALE: 1986 Kawasaki Voyager XII 32,000 miles, rebuilt carburetors, good tires, $1,600. Call 320-267-5632. tfn-RB
FOR SALE: Weatherguard bright aluminum cabinet, 60" wide by 18" tall by 18" deep, $300. Call 612-860-7239.
FOR SALE: Shorelander like new roller boat trailer, $650. Call 612-283-2718.
FOR SALE: 2010 King Ranch F-150, 5.4 liter, Detroiten engine, 4 wheel drive, 200,000 miles. Call 320-241-2447.
PT (3-4 days/week); FT (5 days/week) during Tax Season (January through April)
Duties: Tax preparer assistant, customer service, willing to obtain insurance license Experience: knowledge of taxes and/or insurance, must have computer skills, detail-oriented, and customer service. We offer PTO, Holiday Pay, and IRA retirement. INQUIRIES may call 320-573-2529 ask for Sheila or Dave SEND / DROP-OFF / Email RESUME to: Johnson Insurance Agency 106 Museum Blvd (PO Box 189) Upsala, MN 56384 john_ins2001@yahoo.com
FOR SALE: 2008 Harley
FOR SALE: 4 cream or off white new patterned sheer curtain panels, queen flannel sheet set, $10. Call 320-815-1768.
FOR SALE: 2017 Oasis 26' DB camper like new. More info call 320-339-5260.
A Spelling Funny
Everyone knows I’m a stickler for good spelling. So when an associate emailed technical documents asking me to “decifer” them, I had to set him straight.
“Decipher is spelled with a ph, not an f,” I wrote. “In case you’ve forgotten, spell-checker comes free with your Microsoft program.” A minute later came his reply, “Must be dephective.”
