Cardinal. Photo by John Heisick.
Hometown News
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Are you a leader or a follower? -By Harvey Mackay
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Part of a college application was directed to the applicant’s parents, and one of the questions was, “Would you consider your child to be a leader or a follower?”
After much deliberation, the father wrote that he felt his son, although very much a unique individual, was really more of a follower.
Not long after, a letter of acceptance arrived from the college, accompanied by a note from the Registrar, welcoming his child. It read: “We feel he’ll fit in especially well, as he will be the only follower in a class of 249 leaders!”
Are you a leader or a follower? It’s important to recognize that the qualities of leaders and followers can sometimes overlap, as effective leaders can also be good followers when necessary. However, there are distinct personal qualities that typically set leaders and followers apart.
For example, leaders are often the ones who come up with new ideas and push the boundaries of what is possible. They tend to forge their own paths and are not afraid to stand out from the crowd.
Leaders are development-focused and concentrate on growth, both in themselves and in others. They are people-oriented and prioritize relationships and are adept at motivating and inspiring their teams.
Leaders build trust through transparency and integrity. They have a vision for the future and plan accordingly. They are strategic thinkers
SATURDAY, JANUARY 25
and ask “what” and “why” to understand the deeper purpose and potential impact of their actions.
Finally, leaders look beyond immediate gains to what can be achieved in the longterm. They are originators, not imitators. They question existing conditions and seek to improve them. They are self-reliant and confident in their convictions.
Followers, on the other hand, are execution-focused and excel in carrying out tasks and maintaining the status quo. They are skilled at following directions and adapting to established processes, focusing on immediate tasks and short-term goals.
“A good leader makes a good follower,” said Wilfred Bion, British psychoanalyst.
Good followers support their leaders and the group’s objectives. They are reliable and can be counted on to do what is required. They concentrate on the “how” and “when” of tasks and focus on the immediate results and practical outcomes.
Followers may emulate the behaviors and methods of their leaders or peers, but they typically work within the established system. They tend to follow rules and guidelines set by others and work well within a group and contribute to team dynamics.
“Good leaders must become what they want their followers to become,” said my friend Nido Qubein, president of High Point University.
Every organization needs both leaders and followers. Understanding these qualities can help you identify where you naturally fit and where you might want to develop further to enhance your leadership or followership skills. Whether you lead or follow, do it with the conviction and passion that inspire others to achieve greatness.
When I hire, I look for both qualities, often in the same person. True, some people
are “born leaders,” but they need to understand what followers need from them instead of just barking orders and expecting the desired results.
“Leaders are leaders only as long as they have the respect and loyalty of their followers,” said Hans Selye, Austro-Hungarian scientist.
Effective team building recognizes the importance of both roles and ensures that each team member can contribute in a way that leverages their strengths. Leaders should not only lead but also listen to their followers, and followers should be active participants, not just passive recipients of orders.
In my experience, the most successful teams are those where the roles of leaders and followers are fluid, allowing members to step into leadership roles when their strengths are needed and to support from the follower position when others’ strengths are being utilized.
This simple story illustrates how good leaders inspire their followers. A city boy went on a field trip to a farm in the country, and the farmer asked him to get a calf into the barn. The more he pushed and pulled, the more immovable the calf became. The farmer’s daughter observing the scene went to help the boy. She thrust a finger in the calf’s mouth, and it instinctively followed her into the barn.
Mackay’s Moral: A company without leaders is like a ship without a rudder; it will never reach its destination. But without followers, there’s no crew to sail the ship. Both are essential for a successful voyage.
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
• Sacred Heart School Dine & Wine Fundraiser at 4:30 p.m. at the Freeport Community Center.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 26
• Roving Hillbillies Snowmobile Club Snowmobile Blessing from 12-4 p.m. at the St. Rosa Lions Park.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1
• Minnesota Darkhouse & Angling Association Heartland Chapter 21st Annual Banquet & Fundraiser starting at 4:30 p.m. at the Freeport Community Center.
• Albany Area Community Education Presents Take3 at 7 p.m. at the Blattner Energy Arts Theatre, Albany. See ad on page 5.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4
• Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting at 2 p.m. at CentraCare West Campus Board Room, Long Prairie.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5
• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6
• Red Cross Blood Drive from 12-6 p.m. at Avon Community Church.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9
• Albany Legion Post 482 Smorgasbord Breakfast from 8 a.m.-noon at Church of Seven Dolors Parish Hall, Albany.
• Quilt Bingo at 1 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church, Upsala.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11
• Freeport Lions American Red Cross Blood Drive from 12:30-6:30 p.m. at the
Freeport Community Center.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15
• Valentine’s Banquet at 6 p.m. at Word of Life Church, Upsala. See ad on page 5. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
• Melrose American Legion Fish Fry from 4:30-7:30 p.m.
ALBANY SENIORS
• Meets 1st Tuesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at the Albany Community Center.
ALBANY TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 4th Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Albany City Hall.
• Planning Commission meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Albany City Hall.
BURNHAMVILLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Burtrum City Hall.
BURTRUM CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
FEET FIRST CLINIC
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Holdingford City Hall.
FOOD DISTRIBUTION
• Ruby’s Pantry Food Distribution 1st Saturday of the Month from 10-11 a.m. at River of Live Church, Sauk Centre.
FREEPORT CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
FREEPORT SENIOR MEETING
• Meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m. with cards/Bingo/coffee/dessert.
GREY EAGLE CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 1st Monday of the month at 8 p.m. LINE DANCING
• Meets Mondays at 4 p.m. & 5 p.m. alternating Mondays at the Melrose American Legion.
MELROSE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 1st Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the town hall.
MELROSE VFW #7050 POST/AUX.
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion Clubrooms.
MELROSE LEGION #101 POST/AUX.
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion. (Aux. Sept.-May.)
STEARNS CO. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
• Meets the 2nd Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Albany SUNSHINE CLUB
• Meets every Monday, weigh in starts at 8; meeting at 8:30 a.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle.
ST. ROSA CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 3rd Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Community Park building.
SWANVILLE CITY COUNCIL
• 1st Tuesday after the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
SWANVILLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 8:30 p.m. at the Swanville Fire Hall.
UPSALA CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne
Buckthorn
Minnesota has a serious environmental problem. If you are a resident of a rural area or own a wooded area, Buckthorn is infesting your natural areas. The plant appears under bird resting areas, such as highlines and trees. Birds eat the Buckthorn seeds and release them as they sit on their roosts. The seeds can remain in the soil for several years before they sprout, which makes control a multi-year project.
Not only does the plant take over open areas, but it is harmful to soybean crops. The plant is the wintering protection for both crown rust and soybean aphids.
The plant was carried to the US in the middle 1800’s and has aggressively populated much of Minnesota. The elimination of the plants can be done manually by pulling plants that are less than 2 feet tall. The larger plants, which grow more than 15 feet tall, require cutting with a chainsaw or brush cutter. Application of chemical brush killer must be put on the remaining stumps, or they will aggressively sprout from the stump. Younger plants can be sprayed with brush killer, which usually is quite effective. My personal experience was to add some oil to the sprayer containing the brush killer, making it adhere to the leaves more effectively. I found that I needed to shake the spray container before applying the spray. It is also possible to cover
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070
Mon., Jan. 27: Hamburger stroganoff, noodles, peas, pears, bread.
Tues., Jan. 28: Egg & vegetable bake, oven roasted potatoes, pineapple chunks.
Wed., Jan. 29: Hamburger, baked beans, carrots, cookie.
Thurs., Jan. 30: Chicken breast, baked potato, broccoli, bread.
Fri., Jan. 31: Liver & onions, whipped potatoes, gravy, vegetables, bread.
Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
the stump with a black plastic cover, to stop unwanted sprouting. There is possible financial assistance for the estimated cost of $200.00 per acre to eliminate Buckthorn. There is an organization called EQIP, Environmental Quality Incentives Program. An application is required for acceptance. If accepted, it is possible to receive up to 75% of your costs. If you want to get rid of Buckthorn, at least check out the organization. Another option is to give your State Representatives a call.
If you decide to use your own time to create the solution, it will require a fair amount of time spent outdoors, but you will feel better after being outdoors. 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
Morrison Co. Sheriff’s Office
Accident: January 19, 2025: At approximately 5:38 pm, received a report of a two-vehicle accident near the intersection of Cable Road and 30th Avenue, approximately two miles east of Swanville, MN in Swanville Township.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, 39-year-old Raymond Sutton of Burtrum, MN was traveling west on Cable Road and 31-year-old Derek Pfeiffer of Little Falls, MN was traveling east on Cable Road. The two vehicles collided head-on just west of 30th Avenue. Both drivers and a 6-year-old juvenile male from the vehicle driven by Sutton were transported by Mayo Clinic Ambulance to St Gabriel’s Hospital with unknown injuries. This crash is still under investigation.
The Morrison County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the MN State Patrol, Swanville Fire Department, Swanville First Response Team and Mayo Clinic Ambulance.
Card of Thanks
We would like to thank everyone for your visits, cards, and gifts during and after Mike’s year long battle with throat cancer. People in town knew him as the guy on a golf cart and his fur baby Abby riding shot gun (she passed August 2023). He loved and missed her dearly. With deep gratitude to all.
To Submit a Card of Thanks the cost is $5.00 for the first 50 words, 10¢ for each additional word. MUST BE PREPAID. Mail to: Hometown News, 29442 120th St., Grey
From the Desk of Pastor Bruce
Many years ago, I was a maintenance guy at a facility for mentally handicapped. My job was anything related to carpentry (and whatever else needed to be done). Five years later I became the facilities manager at a Bible Camp, responsible for building and grounds (and whatever else the director asked me to do). After that I worked two short jobs, insulating and driving truck, while I was trying to figure out what was next for me. I started helping people out with fixing problem areas in their homes and eventually I took the test to get my contractor’s license. When I achieved that, a friend of mine said, “Now you can do what you do.” Now, I could work legally on people’s houses but also, all the paperwork of owning a business and whatever else needed to be done.
So, here’s the thing, I have been doing that kind of work for many years, but until I got the paper that said I was a Licensed Contractor, I was just going through the motions. It’s the same way with a relationship with Jesus. I can say, I am a Christian, and I can be a really nice person but unless I have actually
confessed my sins and repented (leaving those sins behind) I am just going through the motions. Your Eternity is at stake, put your faith in Him. Ephesians 2:8-9 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast.” Jesus wants us to believe in Him, by admitting our sins, I like to say it this way. We need to “own up” to our sins! 1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
Please turn your life over to God and live in the promise of eternal life.
-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Brian Middendorf 320-293-9939 40 Years Experience
Frederick Donald Pfau
Frederick Donald Pfau, age 68 of Freeport passed away on January 14, 2025. A celebration and memory of his life will be held at the Sacred Heart Church in Freeport on January 30, 2025 from 5:00-6:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 6:00 p.m.
Fred was born October 5, 1956 to Jerome Pfau and Lorene (Hoeschen) Pfau. He worked on the family dairy farm his entire life. His passion was being a dairy farmer and he loved the land! He enjoyed visiting and sharing his thoughts with many friends.
Fred leaves behind two brothers: Patrick (Karen) Pfau and James (Sunny) Pfau, and a sister: Mary (Ted) Hoeschen and the families that loved him.
Mildred J. Blaskowski
Mildred J. “Joan” Blaskowski, age 92 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at the Cura Care Center in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. No services will be held at this time. Inurnment will be at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.
Mildred Joan Johnson was born September 6, 1932 in Swift Falls, Minnesota to John and Minnie Johnson. She was united in marriage to Jerome Blaskowski on September 6, 1954 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Glenwood, Minnesota.
Survivors include her children, Julie Denk of Sauk Centre, Tim (Sharon) Blaskowski of Melrose, and Norman Blaskowski of Sauk Centre; four grandchildren, Rodney (Lucinda) Denk, Michael Blaskowski (Carissa Wilcox), Christopher (Nicole) Blaskowski and David (Amanda) Blaskowski; and great-grandchildren, Claire, Alivia, Wyatt, Ava, Levi, Elijah, Oliver, Adeline, and Isabell.
Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Jerome Blaskowski on November 16, 2013; parents; brothers and sister, James, Kenneth, and Ruth.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
TOP DOWN SILO LLC
• Take down & cleanup of silos in congested areas
• Mobile Concrete Crushing
• Fully Insured 507-236-9446 topdownsilo.com
Luella M. “Lou” Middendorf
Luella M.
“Lou” Middendorf, age 90 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at Fairway Pines Assisted Living in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, January 24 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 8 p.m. Thursday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Sauk Centre and from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Friday at the church.
Luella Mary Leukam was born May 9, 1934 in Grove Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to Anton and Hilda (Lieser) Leukam. She was the youngest in her family and was the only one of her family to graduate from Melrose High School. Prior to marriage, Lou worked for Dr. Kuhlmann in Melrose. She was united in marriage to Joseph Middendorf on June 14,1956 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Melrose. After retirement from helping on the farm and raising her family, Lou worked at Web Printing. She was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre. She loved her kids, grandkids, and being Grandma Lou. Lou enjoyed bowling, playing cards and BINGO, and loved being active outdoors where she enjoyed gardening, shoveling snow, and mowing the lawn. Her favorite recipe was her famous peanut caramel bars.
Survivors include her children, Barb (Mark) Massmann of Long Prairie, Ron (Cindy) Middendorf of Melrose, Paul (Bonnie) Middendorf of Browerville, Kurt (Amy) Middendorf of Long Prairie, Keith (Jennifer) Middendorf of Sauk Centre, Jeff (Tina) Middendorf of Sauk Centre, and Lisa (Steve) Goerdt of Melrose; daughter-in-law, Denise Middendorf of Long Prairie; 25 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren with one great-greatgrandchild on the way; sister, Alice Klaphake of Melrose; sister-in-law, Irene Leukam; and brother-in-law, Leander Weirens.
Luella was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Middendorf on December 22, 2021; son, Glen Middendorf; grandson, Dustin Middendorf; parents; brother and sisters, Ralph Leukam, Delma Gruber, and Esther Weirens.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
Parkinson's Support Group Meeting
Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting is for anyone with Parkinson’s, their families, and caregivers. Next meeting will be February 4th at 2 p.m. at the CentraCare Long Prairie West Campus Boardroom, 20 9th St. SE.
Will share research/treatment information and individual stories
For more information contact Rona Bleess at 320-874-0222.
Jeanette V. Kleinschmidt
Jeanette V. Kleinschmidt, age 94 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at the Fairway Pines Assisted Living in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.
A Mass of Christian Burial
will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 25 at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with Rev. Mark Botzet officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Saturday at the church.
Jeanette Veronica Schurman was born September 9, 1930 in Melrose, Minnesota to Theodore and Christine (Schlicht) Schurman. She was united in marriage to Joseph Kleinschmidt on January 27, 1953 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Melrose. Jeanette was a homemaker, raising her eight children.
She was a member of Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre, Christian Mothers, and several prayer groups. She was also active in the ARC due to having a special needs child. Jeanette enjoyed spending time at the cabin with her family and friends.
Survivors include her children, Larry (Aunna) Kleinschmidt of Bertha, Ned (JoAnn) Kleinschmidt of Glenwood, Rosemarie (Gary) Marthaler of Sauk Centre, Julie Pfeifer of Eagan, Lisa (Darryl) Ilgen of Hector, and Tim (Mary) Kleinschmidt of Sauk Rapids; son-in-law, Steve (Mary) Klick of Glenwood; 28 grandchildren and 58 great-grandchildren.
Jeanette was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Kleinschmidt on May 16, 2019; parents; daughter, Margaret “Peggy” Klick; son, Joel Kleinschmidt; great-grandson, Carsten Homan; two brothers and four sisters; and sonin-law, Dennis Pfieffer.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
Kevin M. Hylla
Kevin Michael Hylla passed away on January 18, 2025, at the St. Cloud Hospital. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Holdingford American Legion in Holdingford, MN. A private burial will be held at a later date.
Kevin was born to the late Roy and Rosemary (May) Hylla on April 27, 1954, in St. Cloud, MN. Kevin graduated from Holdingford High School in 1973. He was a kind and compassionate person who would always help others. For most of his life, Kevin enjoyed working around the family farm. He was an extremely outgoing person and loved tinkering with tractors and vehicles. When Kevin was younger, he was always followed on the farm by his dog, Prince, where they bonded and played. You could always find Kevin working on trucks; older trucks, newer trucks, it did not matter. Kevin also relished playing cards with his friends and especially with his neighbor, Marcella Warzecha.
Kevin is survived by his siblings: Sharon (Russ), Holdingford MN; Ron (Cheri), Holdingford MN; Michelle (Conrad) Eggan, St. Peter MN; Mark (Joanne), Holdingford MN; Scott (Jennifer), Holdingford MN; and many nieces and nephews. Kevin is also survived by his special friends, Jenny, and Linda.
Kevin’s passing is preceded by his parents, along with his brothers Dave Hylla and Gerry Hylla.
Pulse on People
South Dakota State University: More than 3,900 students were recognized for their outstanding academic performance over the fall 2024 semester being named to the dean’s list. To earn dean’s list distinctions in SDSU’s colleges, students must have completed a minimum of 12 credits and must have earned at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
Overall, 3,901 students from 40 states and 32 foreign nations are on the list. More than 1,600 students received a 4.0 GPA, and those are indicated with an asterisk.
Congratulations to the following students:
Faith Kalthoff of Albany, in SDSU’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences.
Paige Meyer* of Albany, in SDSU’s College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.
Audrey Rieland of Albany, in SDSU’s College of Education and Human Sciences.
Peyton Hylla* of Avon, in SDSU’s College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.
Tanner Tomasek* of Avon, in SDSU’s Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering.
Hannah Hoppe* of Freeport, in SDSU’s College of Nursing.
Briana Maus of Freeport, in SDSU’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences.
Adam Wilwerding of Freeport, in SDSU’s Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering. Madison Rosenberger of Melrose, in SDSU’s College of Nursing.
University of Mary, in Bismarck: Area residents are among the 1201 students named to the 2024 Fall Semester Dean’s List. This number includes students in Mary’s undergraduate program and in adult education (University of Mary Online). To qualify for the honor, students must earn a 3.50 or better grade point average while carrying at least 12 credit hours. Students enrolled in the UMary Online program must earn a 3.50 or better grade point average while at a full-time adult learner status.
Congratulations to the following students: Kristine Kalthoff, Albany
Allison Eiynck, Avon
Abby Thelen, Avon
Nicholas Mettler, Burtrum
Abigail Welle, Freeport
Rachel Becker, Long Prairie
Maria Buntjer, Long Prairie
Bernadette Sauer, Long Prairie
Bridget Sauer, Long Prairie
Help Me Connect
Help Me Connect is an online service navigator that helps providers connect pregnant individuals and families with young children (birth-8 years old) with services in their community.
Help me Connect can assist families with finding services and resources, including:
- Healthy development and screening tools- parenting programs and identify concerns early
- Developmental and behavior concernsservices for early intervention, special education, and mental health
- Disability services and resources- community and family support for children with disabilities
- Early learning and child care- education and child care programs
- Family well-being and mental healthsupport the whole family’s safety, physical and mental health
- Resources for American Indian families
- Caregiving and community support- resources for homeless, immigrants, refugees, teen parents, and other family situations
- Dental care- find and access affordable dental care
Natures View Tree & Yard Care LLC
- Basic needs- help with food, housing and transportation
- Legal Services- low-close or free legal services and information
- Emergency resources- support during crises
Visit: www.helpmeconnectmn.org
Local fourth graders learn about energy efficiency, electrical safety
Employees from Stearns Electric Association shared messages of electrical safety to fourth graders at area schools on January 9 and 10:
• January 9, Holdingford Elementary School in Holdingford
• January 10, Sacred Heart School in Freeport
As part of Stearns Electric’s commitment to safety and community, the Cooperative presents its Energy Education program to fourth grade classrooms throughout its service
territory annually. The engaging program not only teaches students how electricity gets to their homes and schools but also demonstrates the importance of electrical safety.
Stearns Electric’s live, energized home and farm model serves as the highpoint of each presentation. Though students are always fascinated with the electrical sparks and arc flashes demonstrated on the model, they more importantly gain a memorable and impactful understanding of electrical hazards and how to stay safe.
Upstage Players to Present ‘The Play that Goes Wrong’
The Upstage Players are excited to present its winter production of The Play That Goes Wrong by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer & Henry Shields. This award-winning comedy follows an amateur theater troupe’s disastrous attempt to stage a murder mystery, featuring collapsing sets, forgotten lines, and chaotic surprises that leave the audience in stitches. The production showcases a talented cast whose comedic timing and physicality bring the chaos to life.
Performances will take place at the Upsala High School Auditorium on January 31 and
“By educating students about the importance of energy efficiency and electrical safety, we are empowering the next generation to make informed decisions and prioritize safety,” said Katie Anderson, member and employee engagement coordinator, Stearns Electric Association. “We hope they take what they have learned, especially the safety information, and share it with their loved ones at home.”
February 1 at 7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 PM) and February 2 at 2:00 p.m. (doors open at 1:30 PM).
The Upstage Players invite everyone to experience this uproarious show full of laughter, surprises, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss your chance to see this can’t-miss event! Seating is first come, first choice. Tickets are available at the door only.
Presented by arrangement with Dramatists Play Service under license from Mischief Worldwide LTD.
Each presentation concludes with dressing up one lucky student as a line worker. Donning a hard hat, rubber gloves, pole climbers, safety glasses and a utility belt, students experience the real-life equipment line workers use daily.
Cast photo includes: (from left) Randy Borash, Leonice Prokott, Colten Cimenski, Greg Cimenski, Melanie Cimenski, Corey Kramer, Lilyan Riggleman, and Ben Novak.
Stearns Electric lineman Blake Thompson demonstrates the safety model at Holdingford Elementary School
Stearns Electric lineman Blake Thompson presents Energy Education to students at Sacred Heart Elementary School in Freeport
4th grader Evan Paggen, Holdingford Elementary, dresses as a lineworker.
4th grader Easton Frieler, Sacred Heart, dresses as a lineworker.
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 Dominic,
Dear Dave, Our son is in high school, and he has a car and a parttime job nights and weekends. We’ve worked with him on saving, spending and giving, but should a teenager have an emergency fund, too? If so, how much do you recommended them setting aside?
-Dominic
This is a great question! I’m glad to know you’re working with your son and teaching him wise financial habits.
I always recommend an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses for adults, and I think that’s a fair expectation for teens, as well. He won’t need as big an emergency fund as a married couple with kids if his expenses consist only of those connected to his car and social life. So, I’d suggest him saving up three months’ worth of what it takes to operate the car—gas, insurance and maintenance.
I think those are fair financial responsibilities for a responsible teen in his situation.
- Dave
Dear Dave,
I’m a non-traditional student in my last semester of college. In May, I’ll graduate with a degree in elementary education and have a job waiting for me. It will bring our household income up to a little over $100,000. We’re already living on a budget, but the problem
is we’ll have $15,000 in student loan debt to repay, plus $5,000 in credit card debt. What should we address first?
-Marta
Dear Marta, It sounds like all your hard work is about to pay off in a big way. And I’ve got some more good news for you. If you two keep living the way you have been, and put the rest toward debt, you can have that student loan and credit card debt knocked out in just a year or so.
But I want you to pay close attention to what I’m about to say next. Just because you’re making more money doesn’t mean you should start buying a bunch of toys or pick up a car payment. Sit down together now—don’t wait—and practice making a written monthly budget based on your new income. Give every dollar a name before you spend it, and don’t forget to work the debt snowball, too. List your debts from smallest to largest, make minimum payments on the largest, and then attack that credit card debt with a vengeance.
Chances are you can get the credit card debt taken care of in two or three months. Then, roll the money from that payment over, and apply it and any other cash you can scrape up toward the student loan debt.
With just a little more work, you folks are going to find yourselves in a really great place soon!
-Dave
* Leadership and small-business expert Dave Ramsey is the CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored eight national bestselling books, including “EntreLeadership,” and he’s a host of “The Ramsey Show” and “The EntreLeadership Podcast.”
Ask The Motor Medics®
From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Dear Motor Medics, I need to know how difficult it is to diagnose auto repairs. I have a
2020 Jeep Renegade that has a electrical issue that is not always there. It comes and goes every few days and results in a dead battery. I have taken it into three different shops where they spent a couple days each on it, but none of them were able to fix it. One did not make any repairs but charged me over $300.00 for looking at it and the other two said they “had it fixed” and gave me a list of what they did but it still does it. Can I be charged for repairs even though they didn’t fix it and why can’t they get it figured out?
-Clarence in Newark
Dear Clarence,
You will have to figure out the charges part for yourself as we are not that shop. When you have an electrical issue which we see often in our shop, it can be a nightmare. First, the problem must exist as the vehicle is being repaired and it must stay active the entire time. Then, during the repairs each circuit must be isolated one at a time to check for drawing, then once reactivated the car must sit until it goes to sleep. This process is standard and can take hours and if the problem goes away during the test then a shop will charge you even though it did not get fixed.
-Take care, The Motor Medics
Dear Motor Medics,
My 2010 Ford F250 diesel truck has a door ding sound and a door ajar light that comes on and goes off as I drive. When I hit bumps and more so on cold days it seems to be
present more often. Sometimes I can always have the light on for several days in a row while on a really hot day it may never come on. My mechanic does not do this kind of work anymore and does not have any advice for me other than to take it to another shop. What kind of things could it be.
-John, in Indiana
Dear John,
The door ajar and warning bell are both functions of the door switches but those switches on your truck also communicate with a module. There can be a problem with the switch, the module or the wiring and any one of these can cause your problem. Modules are sometimes affected by temperatures but more often the door switch which is part of the door latch is the issue. When the latch switch starts to fail it gets sticky and won’t shut off the warning. Spraying the door latch sometimes offers a temporary fix but accelerates the failure because it makes it attract dirt and makes it worse. If they find that the switch is faulty it is best to replace it instead of trying to lubricate it for a temporary fix.
-Take care, the Motor Medics For entertainment only. Always consult your local shop and follow all safety procedures before repairs. Come visit the Motor Medics® online at Underthehoodshow.com.
Local Municipality Minutes
Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com
Grey Eagle City • December 10, 2024
The Truth in Taxation meeting was called to order by Mayor Joseph Arnzen at 6:30 pm on the 10th of December 2024 in Council Chambers. Council members present were Brad Johnson, Brian Hollenkamp, Roland Ahrendt and Chris Browen. There were no council members absent. Also in attendance was Beth Ramacher.
The purpose of the Truth in Taxation meeting is to allow residents an opportunity to comment on or express concerns regarding the 2025 budget and levy. There were no residents in attendance.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to adjourn the meeting at 6:59 pm. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
Beth Ramacher, Clerk/Treasurer
Grey Eagle City • December 10, 2024
The regular meeting of the Grey Eagle City Council was called to order by Mayor Joseph Arnzen at 7:00 pm on the 10th day of December 2024 in Council Chambers. Council members present were Brad Johnson, Brian Hollenkamp, Roland Ahrendt & Chris Browen. There were no council members absent. Also in attendance were Dan Berscheid and Beth Ramacher and guests: Tim Korby, Larry Van Hout and Dominic Kerzman.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the agenda. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve the minutes of the November 12, 2024 meeting. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
Tim Korby from SEH was present to discuss possible funding opportunities for a new well and water treatment plant upgrade.
Larry Van Hout from Widseth was present to discuss the recent water treatment plant walk-through he did with Bryan Bye (Widseth) and Greg Stang (People Service). He also talked about funding options for a new well and water treatment plant upgrade. Bryan Bye will be at the January meeting to provide more information and discussion.
Fire Chief, Dan Berscheid, was present to discuss the 2006 Chevy truck purchased from the DNR. He shared quotes received for paint and work needed to get this truck usable as a grass rig. He is going to present the quotes to the entire fire department as well.
The Grey Eagle Relief Association requested a change to the current bylaws which would increase the yearly benefits by $100. A motion was made by Brad Johnson to increase the pension by $100, to $1600 per year served. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Roland Ahrent to approve the application for $2000 Boost Funding from Sourcewell for Public Safety. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
Discussion was held on the website regarding the business section. The business section will be omitted from the new website.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the 2024 Audit Engagement letter from Brian D. Koehn, CPA, PLLC. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the 2025 Legal Services Contract with Quinlivan & Hughes, PA. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to approve the purchase of investments for 2024 ($30,000 Fire Department, $3000 Streets and $3000 Sewer). A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Chris Browen to rescind the motion to approve the 2023 budgeted transfer of $13,239 from the General Fund to the Fire Fund (February 13, 2024 meeting). A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
Discussion was held on snow removal in the
alley south of Main Street. No changes will be made/allowed for the season.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2024-28: Resolution Accepting $1375 from Sourcewell for Consultant Reimbursement FY 24-25. 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. 2024-28: A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING $1375.00 FROM SOURCEWELL FOR CONSULTANT REIMBURSEMENT FY 24-25
WHEREAS, money has been received from Sourcewell; 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 funds ($250, $775 and $350) from Sourcewell for Consultant Reimbursement for the fiscal year 2024-2025.
2. That the City Clerk is authorized and directed to make the appropriate revenue and expenditure budget adjustments as needed to reflect this funding and its intended use.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 10th day of December 2024.
A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve Resolution 2024-29: Accepting $100 Donation from American Legion Post 417 for the Veterans Program. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-29: A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING $100 DONATION FROM AMERICAN LEGION POST 417 FOR THE VETERANS PROGRAM
WHEREAS, money has been donated by American Legion Post 417; 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 American Legion Post 417 for the Veterans Program.
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 10th day of December 2024.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2024-30: Accepting $46,447.33 from Sourcewell for Match Funds FY 24-25. A second was made by Chris Browen and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-30: A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING $46,447.33 FROM SOURCEWELL FOR MATCH FUNDS FY 2425
WHEREAS, money has been received from Sourcewell; 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 funds from Sourcewell for Community Impact Funds for the fiscal year 2024-2025.
2. That the City Clerk/Treasurer is authorized and directed to make the appropriate revenue and expenditure budget adjustments as needed to reflect this funding and its intended use.
Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 10th day of December 2024.
A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve Resolution 2024-31: Adopting Final Levy Payable in 2025. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The resolution is as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-31: A RESOLUTION ADOPTING FINAL LEVY PAYABLE IN 2025
A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to approve payment of Claims #3307-3330, totaling $18,018.94 and include additional payments of the following: Town Web $2020.00 and MN Power $2179.05. A second was made by Chris Browen and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to
adjourn the meeting at 8:00 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 at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 in Council Chambers. Beth Ramacher, Clerk/Treasurer
Minnesota Individual Income Tax filing season opens January 27, 2025
The Minnesota Department of Revenue will open the state Individual Income Tax filing season on Monday, January 27, 2025. This date matches the opening day for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The filing deadline to submit 2024 Minnesota and federal income tax returns is Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
Tax software providers and tax professionals may be accepting and preparing tax returns before January 27 and will submit those returns when the IRS and state systems open.
“There are some new things this tax season that taxpayers should be aware of. A firstin-the-nation advance payment option for Child Tax Credit recipients is available to help families get the benefits of the credit when it best meets their budget needs,” said Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart. “Renters will be filing for the new Renter’s Credit on their income tax return and will get that refund along with their income tax refund instead of getting it separately later in the year.”
“Taxpayers can find more information about these changes as well as electronic tax filing options and information on choosing a tax preparer on our website,” said Commissioner Marquart.
Minnesota Child Tax Credit
Taxpayers may qualify for a Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child, with no limit on the number of children claimed. This is a refundable credit, meaning you can receive a refund even if you do not owe tax. You must file a 2024 individual income tax return in order to claim the credit.
More than 223,000 tax returns claimed the new Child Tax Credit for tax year 2023, for an average total credit of $1,242 per child. This tax credit put over $562 million into the budgets of Minnesota families this year.
Learn more about income requirements and qualifications on the Child Tax Credit webpage.
Advance payment option available for Child Tax Credit recipients
If a Child Tax Credit recipient chooses advance payments of their 2025 credit when
filing their 2024 tax returns this filing season, they will receive a portion of their 2025 credit in three installments going out at the end of July, September, and November. They will receive the remaining portion of the credit amount when they file their 2025 income tax returns.
Learn more at https://www.revenue.state. mn.us/advance-payments-child-tax-credit New Renter’s Credit this year
Starting this tax filing season, renters eligible for a property tax refund will now claim the new Renter’s Credit on their Minnesota return. To claim the Renter’s Credit, renters must file a state income tax return. For most renters, this means they will no longer file a separate Property Tax Refund return and will not receive a separate refund later in the year. The Renter’s Credit will be part of their income tax refund amount, be applied to the amount owed on their income tax return, or be applied to other debts referred to the Minnesota Department of Revenue.
Learn more at https://www.revenue.state. mn.us/renters-credit
Protect yourself
Tax time is also primetime for identity theft and fraud attempts. Revenue encourages taxpayers filing their returns to use electronic tax filing software and choosing direct deposit for any refund. Not only is that the most convenient way to file, but it is also the most secure. A list of certified tax filing software will be available on Revenue’s website when filing season opens.
When working with a tax preparer, taxpayers should make sure the preparer has the knowledge and experience to prepare their returns correctly. Taxpayers should make sure they are fully aware of any tax document or agreement they sign.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the following final levy for 2025 was approved by the Grey Eagle City Council on this 10th day of December 2024.
FUND LEVY AMOUNT % OF TOTAL
Adopted by the Grey
Council this 10th day of December 2024.
NOTICE OF AUDIT MEETING Grey Eagle Township
I’ll help you find the right fit
Board Advances Design Development for New Justice Center
The Stearns County Board of Commissioners approved moving forward with design development for the County’s new Justice Center.
Architects and consultants presented a schematic design for the new facility. The proposed structure is 510,000 square feet and has space for 270 jail beds, 11 courtrooms, the law library, Sheriff’s Office, County Attorney’s Office, Emergency Management, and other justice-related spaces. The design includes a one-floor jail with tiered housing units and an area for inmate health care. The Sheriff’s Office will have public facing offices and training areas on the first floor and offices on the second. Courts will have five floors, with courtrooms on each level. The estimated cost of the building as proposed is $319.7 million, with rebates and other discounts reducing the final cost to $315.5 million.
The design also incorporates a few elements consistent with other county buildings, including a rotunda entrance, a light domelike feature, granite pillars, and some terrazzo floors, and marble and granite finishes in select highly public areas.
Although the Board approved the design presented, Commissioners emphasized that adjustments could still be made to building size or components to be included. The approval allows architects to proceed with design development, which will provide more accurate cost estimates and keep the project on schedule for bidding this fall. Commissioners acknowledged that some components might be delayed or removed depending on the final budget, while also keeping future growth in mind.
“We want a facility that is effective, efficient, forward-thinking, and fiscally responsible,” said County Commissioner Tarryl Clark.
Commissioner Perske voted against the proposed design noting that he didn’t think the project was headed in the right direction.
In the November election, Stearns County residents approved funding the project through a sales tax, capped at $325 million. Commissioners are pushing to keep the project moving as delays result in a higher price tag.
“We committed to using no levy dollars for this facility and we must adhere to that,” added Clark. “Delays increase costs and could jeopardize our ability to complete the facility within the sales tax budget.” Inflation has already added $9.3 million to estimates over the past year.
Board Chair Jeff Bertram stressed the importance of transparency throughout the process. “We want to ensure there are no surprises. It’s critical that we have all the information as we move forward.”
Commissioners also reviewed the project’s construction schedule:
January 7, 2025: Design and construction schedule approval
April 2025: Release the first bid package
August 2025: Approve bids
December 2025/January 2026: Release the second bid package
Spring 2026: Groundbreaking
Property acquisition for the Justice Center is currently underway. Staff are looking at a 78-acre site off County Road 75 and 134, of which 68 acres are buildable because of wetlands. Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2026.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: People to help sew bags for the veterans at the St. Cloud VA. Fabric & supplies provided. Call Cindy 651-485-5731.
WANTED TO BUY: Butcher cows, bulls, fats & walkable cripples: also horses, sheep & goats. 320-235-2664. SC-odB
VOLUNTEERS WANTED: For Meals on Wheels in Albany for routes in Holdingford, Albany, Avon & St. Joe. Please call 320845-4070 or visit our website at ccstcloud. org and click on link Volunteer request form. We need help in our kitchen, and delivering meals.
WANTED: Cars and pickups from the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, in your weeds or sheds. 218-640-3807 or 218-756-2257.
WANTED: Cub-Cadet push lawn mower. Call 320-632-3336.
WANTED: Rescue and domestic animals: raccoon, skunk, opossum, goats, sheep, horses, chicken, ducks, etc. hobby farm home. 320-874-1723
FOR SALE: Purebred Chihuahuas to go to good homes. Call 320-333-4168. 1/23
FOR SALE: 7 ft. snowplow, fits F-150 Ford truck, $3,500. Call 320-248-7332. 1/23
FOR SALE: Snow blower, electric start, 8 hp, 2 stage, $250. Call 612-283-2718.
Call Loreen for Details! Cats Ok
763-238-0616
FOR SALE: 6x8 2 wheel trailer, tilt metal bed, wooden sides, $500 or BO. Call 320360-0343. Tk
FREE KITTENS: Tri-colored black white gray with tiger stripes. People friendly & litter box trained. Call 320-874-1723.
FREE RABBITS: Gray, black, white, solid and mixed color. Netherlands & Dutch. Call Craig 320-874-1723. 1/23
FOR SALE: Hardwood firewood, dried, 20-22 inches, $150 full cord. Call 320-7663119. tfn
FOR SALE: Dried Oak firewood cut and split $175. Call 320-632-3336.
FOR SALE: 5’ blade for 4-wheeler $425. Call 320-217-9250.
FOR SALE: Antique rocking chair in good condition $50. Text 612-716-4427 for pictures, Grey Eagle area.
FOR SALE: Unique cabinet $75, top folds open making a desktop. Text 612-716-4427 for pictures, Grey Eagle area.
