Hometown News March 21, 2024

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Your raise will become effective when you are -By Harvey Mackay

Former Secretary of Commerce

Malcolm Baldridge enjoyed telling how a high-ranking official responded to an employee’s request for a raise by saying: “Because of the influctuational predisposition of your position’s productive capacity as juxtaposed to government standards, it would be monetarily injudicious to advocate an increment.”

Confused, the employee said, “I don’t get it.”

And the supervisor responded, “That’s right.”

Asking for a raise can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with the right approach and preparation, you can increase your chances of success. You need a strategy to help you navigate this important conversation.

First, it is crucial to be well-prepared for your annual salary or performance review. This is often the best time to discuss a raise. Do your homework. Make sure you gather facts that highlight your contributions, organize your achievements in a clear and compelling way, and practice discussing these points so you can present them confidently.

Before you even schedule this meeting, research your value. Understand what the market pays for your role and level of experience. Know your company’s financial health. Is it in a position to even offer raises? Keep a log of your successes, kudos from clients or any recognition you have received.

Timing is everything. Growing up, I knew

FRI.-SUN., MARCH 22-24

never to ask for the keys to the car when my parents were in a bad mood. Wait until you’ve had a significant accomplishment, or the company is doing well financially. Maybe it’s a strategic time of year, such as after annual budgets are approved.

“The most difficult thing in any negotiation, almost, is making sure that you strip it of the emotion and deal with the facts,” said Howard Baker, former United States Senator.

You need to present your case. Go through your boss’s review agenda first, showing respect for the process. Afterward, ask to present your own case. Be clear and concise about your contributions and how they have benefited the company.

Robert Herjavec from ABC's “Shark Tank” said: “You should never come out and say I deserve more money. Nobody cares what you deserve. It's about what you can do for the company. It's never I, I, I . . . it's always what value you can add.”

Prepare yourself for different responses and know what you will do if the answer isn’t what you hoped for. If you don’t get the raise, ask for feedback and what you can do to reach your salary goals. Request additional responsibilities or opportunities that can increase your value. Inquire about professional development opportunities.

Throughout this process, maintain professionalism. Avoid ultimatums unless you are prepared to follow through. Stay calm, regardless of the outcome. Use the experience as a learning opportunity to build a stronger case in the future.

Remember, the key to asking for a raise is to demonstrate your value to the company and to approach the conversation with a blend of confidence and humility.

At one time I had an employee who was absolutely stellar in her performance. She had

done her homework thoroughly, understood her value in the marketplace and had a list of accomplishments that benefited the company significantly. She scheduled a meeting with me, and I could tell she was prepared.

During her performance review, she listened attentively and responded to the feedback I provided. Once we had gone through the standard agenda, she respectfully asked if she could present additional information. She laid out her case with such clarity and professionalism, detailing her contributions, the positive feedback from clients and how her work had directly impacted our bottom line.

She also knew the timing was right. Our company had just landed a few big contracts and morale was high. She didn’t come across as entitled; rather she was confident and ready to discuss her future with the company.

I was impressed by her approach. It was evident she wasn’t just asking for more money. She was demonstrating her ongoing commitment to our collective success. She made it easy for me to say yes because she showed me the reason. And while not every situation works out so smoothly, her approach is one I recommend to anyone looking to ask for a raise.

Sometimes the best time to ask for a raise is not when you think you need it, but when you know the company can’t afford to lose you.

Mackay’s Moral: If you want them to show you the money, you better show them the reason.

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

• 14th Annual "Journey With Jesus to Calvary" Play at St. Francis of Assisi Church, St. Francis. Wed. at 7 p.m. Fri.-Sat. at 7:30 p.m. Sun. at 1 p.m.

THURSDAY, MARCH 21

• Upsala Area Historical Society Board Meeting at 7:30 p.m. at the Community Center.

FRIDAY, MARCH 22

• Smelt & Fish Fry from 4-8 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church, Upsala.

• Albany Area Community Education Presents 'Ring of Kerry' at 7 p.m. at the Blattner Energy Arts Theatre, Albany.

SUNDAY, MARCH 24

• Matching Grant Breakfast from 9 a.m.12:30 p.m. at St. Mary's Church Hall, Holdingford.

• Knights of Columbus St. Gregory the Great #12604 Breakfast from 9 a.m.12:30 p.m. at St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church, Bowlus. See ad on page 7.

SATURDAY, MARCH 30

• Melrose VFW Auxiliary #7050 Annual Easter Eggs & Bake Sale at 8:30 a.m. at the American Legion, Melrose. Luncheon at 11:30 a.m.

• Easter Egg Hunt at 11 a.m. at the Burtrum City Lions Park. See ad on page 4.

TUESDAY, APRIL 2

• Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting at 2 p.m. at CentraCare West Campus Board Room, Long Prairie.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3

• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apart-

ments, Grey Eagle.

MONDAY, APRIL 8

• 44th Annual Grey Eagle Housing Association Meeting at 4:30 p.m. at the Village View Apartments. See ad on page 7.

THURS.-SUN., APRIL 11-14

• Melrose Stages Presents "Hello Dolly" at the Marit Elliott Performing Arts Center, Melrose. Thurs.-Sat. at 7:30; Sun. at 2 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.

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.

If you have an upcoming event or meeting, please let us know by email: htnews@icloud.com or call

Weekend Weather

“The Good Old Days” -By

More Thoughts

Recently one of my readers stopped by my office to share a story about a cough medicine that his mother used to stop a cough. We shared some of our experiences from years past since we had a rather large accumulation of those past years, we had a lot of experiences and memories to discuss. Since we both had grown up on a farm, there were a lot of old memories to share including cows, calves, horses, chickens, pigs, machinery, crop planting and harvesting. I find it fascinating to discuss what and how things were done before electricity arrived and tractors took over for the horses.

Today there are few families that still process their own meat, but in the past years, butchering was usually something that needed to be done at least once per year. Those that lived on a farm depended on the garden and their livestock to keep the family fed. The food items from the woods, the garden and the butchering process needed to be preserved as soon as possible to prevent spoilage. This was done by canning, salting and smoking, which took a lot of time and work.

The rural families used different methods of processing foods. Many of these methods came to this country with the immigrants. After living in this country for a few years, some of the methods changed because the neighbors did something differently and that actually was easier or tasted better. For example, the Swedes and the Germans both had their recipes for sausage. The Swedish recipe was more mild tasting and the German recipe was more spicy. As years passed, the Germans began making potato sausage. The depression also changed some of the recipes, since those that lived during the depression adopted a thinking that

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

Tom Kuehne

the only part of the pig that was not eaten was the squeal. Waste not, want not. Today, some of the ingredients found in processed meat products still use some unusual ingredients. We consume these items frequently and are usually not concerned about what they are made of. They are fast, usually do not require cooking and are usually used by guys, since all the consumer needs to do is grab a couple slices of bread and put the meat product between the slices to create a tasty satisfying meal or snack.

At one time history tells us that there was a meeting held in the town of Avon, Minnesota. Those that set up the meeting made it a requirement that everyone that lived in Avon must attend the meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to get the citizens to agree that only English language was allowed in the city limits. It worked! Even today, the residents of Avon commonly speak English.

Oh yes, regarding the cough medicine. My visitor's Mother would take a meat platter and slice about two inches of onion slices on it. She would then sprinkle sugar on the onions, which would create liquid on the platter. The family would drink the liquid if they had coughing and congestion and the symptoms would go away. It seemed to be more effective than store-bought cough medicines.

Hearing from those who still treasure the good old days certainly gives me a chance to tell stories that maybe you have never heard before.

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

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

From the Desk of Pastor Bruce

I had a conversation with a young man the other day and I used the phrase “That’s for the birds.” He looked outside wondering what birds I was talking about and then what on earth was I talking about? The phrase for all of you who are also wondering what it means, refers to something that has no real meaning, trivial or worthless.

So as a pastor and Bible teacher I may use words every now and then that have no meaning to people. One word is Redemption or Redeemed. Some may say, since I have never heard it before it must be worthless and trivial. But this one word is packed full of Christian doctrine.

Some of you use coupons at the grocery store. My mom always brought coupons to the store with her, in fact she saved lots of money by doing so. When you give the clerk a coupon, you are in fact redeeming it. The coupon might be worth one dollar, so by redeeming the coupon at the time you are paying for your

merchandise simply means you pay $1 less for that item.

When I tell you that you are redeemed by the blood of Jesus on the cross, I am saying that Jesus paid your debt of sin. Ephesians 1:7 says, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” If you only believe in the work of Jesus Christ on the cross, He will make you clean from sin and give you eternal life.

Colossians 1:20-22 says “and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—"

Good Friday is next week! Then on Easter morning we celebrate His resurrection, giving us life!

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

Monday:

Tuesday:

3

Walleye

Thursday: All Day/Night $3.00 LUNCH SPECIALS

Walleye Fingers w/Fries $8.50

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

•

•

Monday-Friday: 11 AM-1 PM

• Wednesday Chicken

SATURDAY: 5-9 PM (Salad Bar)

•

• Ribs

• Deep Fried Walleye $15.95

• Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken, Wild Rice, w/Breadsticks $12.95

•

SUNDAY: 3-8 PM (Salad Bar)

• Steak & Shrimp $19.95

$13.95

Obituaries

James G. Rehkamp

James G. “Jim” Rehkamp, age 63 of Albany, passed away unexpectedly from complications of a blood infection on Friday, March 15, 2024 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, March 19 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in St. Anthony with Rev. Edward Vebelun, O.S.B. officiating and Rev. Julius Beckermann, O.S.B. concelebrating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.

James Gerard Rehkamp was born June 25, 1960 in Sauk Centre, Minnesota to Leander and Josephine (Engelmeyer) Rehkamp. He graduated from Sauk Centre High School in 1979 and continued his education at Alexandria Technical College, graduating in 1981. Jim was united in marriage to Joyce Beutz on September 20, 1986 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in St. Anthony. Jim worked at Fred Ostendorf Excavating in Sauk Centre for a few years before starting at Wonder Hostess Cakes in Sauk Centre in 1986 as a truck mechanic. In 2005, he began working at Stearns Manufacturing in Sauk Rapids in facility maintenance. Jim was currently working at Wells Concrete in Albany as a mechanic/ maintenance engineer.

Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, 4-wheeling, gardening, staying busy, and most of all, being a grandpa. To his family he was the “Jim of all trades." He was able to fix anything. He was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church where he served as a trustee, member of St. Anthony Men’s Society, St. Joseph Rod and Gun Club, and Pioneer Club in Albany.

Survivors include his loving wife, Joyce Rehkamp of Albany; daughter, Tanya (Ryan) Willenbring of Eden Valley; son, Travis (McKenna) Rehkamp of Albany; grandchildren, Emma, Eli, Carson, and Baby Willenbring on the way; mother, Josephine Rehkamp of Sauk Centre; and sisters, Carol Ervasti of Sauk Rapids and Diane (Gregg) Kyllo of Otsego; mother-in-law, Geneva Beutz of Albany; brother-in-law, Ray Beutz of Albany; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Leander Rehkamp; father-in-law, Ervin Beutz; sister and brother-in-law, Jeanne (Beutz) and (Scott) Younkin; along with many aunts and uncles.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.

Lucy J. Bernick

Lucy J. Bernick, age 81 of Albany, passed away peacefully, on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at the Mother of Mercy Nursing Home in Albany, Minnesota. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a later date. Inurnment will be at St. Hedwig’s Cemetery in Holdingford.

Lucy Johanna Justin was born January 2, 1943 in St. Cloud, Minnesota to Edward and Theresa (Preusser) Justin. On April 20, 1963, she married Stephan Bernick at St. Augustine Catholic Church in St. Cloud. After their marriage, the couple moved to Minneapolis then to St. Cloud and settled in Albany. Lucy worked various jobs from bar tending to data entry. She enjoyed crocheting, reading, and in her younger years, camping.

Lucy was a member of St. Hedwig’s Catholic Church in Holdingford.

Survivors include her sons, Alex (Naomi) Bernick of Brainerd and Eric Bernick (fiancée, Tania Sletta) of Melrose; brothers and sisters, Leonard (Diane) Justin of Albany, LeRoy (Diane) Justin of Sauk Rapids, Rose (Steve) Johnson of Rice, James (Sandy) Justin of Forest Lake, John (Karen) Justin of Arizona, and Sister Rose Marie Justin of Virginia.

Lucy was preceded in death by her parents; infant son, Steve Bernick Jr.; and son, Sean Bernick.

Kenneth John Euteneuer

The Mass of Christian Burial, celebrating the life of Kenneth J. Euteneuer, age 70 of Holdingford was held Wednesday, March 20 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Anna. Burial was in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Holdingford. Ken died Thursday at the Prairie Care Center in Long Prairie after a battle with cancer.

Ken was born January 13, 1954, in Little Falls to Victor and Bernice (Lashinski) Euteneuer. He lived all of his life in the Holdingford area. He graduated from Holdingford High School and began working at Brown Boveri Turbomachinery in St. Cloud. In 1985, he started working for DeZurik, INC in Sartell where he was a welder for 39 years, retiring in February of 2024 at the age of 70. He married Patricia Langner Wenderski on May 19, 1990, in All Saints St. Hedwig’s Catholic Church in Holdingford. Ken also worked as a farmer, raising cattle, and he helped his wife, Pat, with her flower shop, Pat’s Floral. He was a member of All Saints, St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Holdingford, and the Holdingford Knights of Columbus.

Claude L. Toenyan

Claude L. “Cloudy” Toenyan, age 79 of St. Rosa, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Sunday, March 17, 2024 at the Tree of Life Assisted Living in New Munich, Minnesota. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m.

Saturday, March 23 at Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery with military honors by the Melrose Veterans Honor Guard.

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose and from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the church. Claude’s grandchildren will lead the Rosary at 7 p.m. Friday evening at the funeral home.

Claude Lawrence Toenyan was born October 10, 1944 in Millwood Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to Edward and Marie (Schmidt) Toenyan. He attended the Petermeier country school and attended Melrose High School through the ninth grade. He was united in marriage to Susan Scegura on August 23, 1969 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Anna. Claude was employed at Franklin Manufacturing from 1968 through 1970. He purchased the dairy farm near St. Rosa in 1969 and farmed there until his retirement. Claude served in the Minnesota National Guard from 1965 through 1971 and was a proud member of the Melrose American Legion Post 101 for 37 years.

He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa where he served as secretary for the Holy Name Society and served as an usher for many years. Claude would also lead the Rosary in church prior to Mass and served as president of Catholic United at St. Rose of Lima. He was a league bowler for the New Munich League. Claude enjoyed fishing and hunting, trap shooting at the Albany Sportsmans Club, and loved watching the Minnesota Twins and wildlife. Claude loved to travel, visiting all 50 states and he also took three cruises taking him to several countries including the Holy Land, Rome, and Medjugorje. Claude's main priorities in life were his faith, family, farming, and freedom.

Survivors include his loving wife of 54 years, Susan Toenyan of St. Rosa; children, Paul (Annie) Toenyan and their children, Julia, Alexa, Nathan, Noah, and Jared of Greenwald, Karen Toenyan of Ward Springs, Gregg Toenyan of Ward Springs, Jason (Sarah) Toenyan and their children, Katelynn, Nolan, Jackson, and Jonathon of Freeport, and Matthew Toenyan of St. Rosa; sister, Jane Wielenberg of Long Prairie; and brothers, Carl (Mary) Toenyan of Melrose, Harold Toenyan of New Munich, and Tom (Julie) Toenyan of Freeport; and many nieces and nephews.

Claude was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Ryan Toenyan; sister, Phyllis Messer; and an infant brother, Frank Toenyan.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.

Roger Michael Czech

Graveside service for Roger Michael Czech, age 62, Holdingford, was held Wednesday, March 20 at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Holdingford. Roger passed away on March 15, 2024. Roger was born on November 14, 1961, in Detroit Lakes, MN to Dale Patrick and Marian Jeanette (Ohrt) Czech. He attended high school in Holdingford, MN before enlisting in the US Navy.

Roger is survived by his brothers and sisters, James “Jim” (Brenda) Czech, Lawrenceburg, TN, Donald “Don” (Missy) Czech, Brainerd, MN, John (Doreen) Czech, Avon, MN, Karen Sorensen, Duluth, MN, Donna (Jim) Czech, Springhill, FL, Michael “Mike” Alan Czech, Hill City, MN.

Preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, Dale Patrick and Marian Jeanette, and brother, Thomas “Tom” Eugene Czech.

Joyce L. Christian

Joyce L Christian, 51, of Sauk Rapids, MN passed away on March 3rd, 2024 at the St. Could Hospital after a courageous battle against Cancer. She was surrounded by family, friends, and her beloved dog Buddy.

A funeral service was held

Saturday, March 16th at the Grey Eagle United Methodist Church with Rev. Jacob Holck officiating.

Joyce was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Duane Christian Sr. and Brenda Karnes. The family moved around the state where Joyce attended Grey Eagle, Hill City, and Melrose schools. Joyce proceeded with her education at St. Cloud State University completing her freshman year. After school, Joyce worked in retail for several years and later obtained her CDL. Joyce drove semi over the road and then for Astech as a dump truck driver for nearly 10 years. She was very proud of her accomplishments as a CDL driver but most of all her nieces and nephews. Joyce is survived by brothers Duane “Chris” (Holly) Christian Jr., Daniel (Heather) Christian, Travis Denk, Louis “LT” (Kim) Thompson III, and Jonathan (Ashley) Thompson. Nieces Stephanie, Tori, Bailie, Tara, Jordan, Taylor Marie, Taylor Ann, Bryce, Lucas, Brooke, and Parker. Four great nephews and one great niece. She is preceded in death by her parents and sister Brenda Lee.

Arlene Kortan Litchy

Ken is survived by his wife, Pat Euteneuer, Holdingford, his stepchildren; Joseph Wenderski, Hastings; Harvey (Dawn) Wenderski, Richmond; Charlotte (Bill) Neuman, Big Fork, Michelle (Lonnie) Herges, Eustis, FL; seven grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters, Rosanne (Rich) Warner, Marshall; Carol (Terry) Johnson, Cleveland, MN; Tom (Patty) Euteneuer, St. Cloud; Mark (Deb) Euteneuer, Brainerd; Doris (Brian) Cress, Cottage Grove, John Euteneuer, Royalton; Mary (George) Carrie, Winona, and 21 nieces and nephews and 27 great-nieces and nephews. Ken is preceded in death by his parents.

Rick’s Painting

Arlene Kortan Litchy, age 81, of Stillwater, died peacefully March 10, 2024.

Preceded in death by brother, Louie Kortan.

She will be sadly missed by husband, Charlie; children, Michelle (Chuck) Weiler, Robert (Stephanie) and Ann-Marie (Matt) Hotary; grandchildren, Abbey Weiler, Shelby (Cam) Ingberg, Hillary and Ellissa Weiler, Lexi and Sydney Litchy, Olivia and Emmett Hotary; one great-granddaughter, Ruby Weiler; brother, Don Kortan; nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, May 18, 2024, 11:00 A.M. at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 423 South 5th Street, Stillwater with visitation one hour prior to the Mass.

“Messiah In The Passover" Experience

Coming Good Friday

MESSIAH IN THE PASSOVER, a vivid and exciting demonstration showing how Jesus fulfilled the ancient feast of Passover, will be held on Friday, March 29 at 6:30 pm, at Community Covenant Church in Upsala. This visual presentation will be conducted by Trevor Rubenstein of Chosen People Ministries.

MESSIAH IN THE PASSOVER begins with the traditional Passover Seder table –complete with all the articles of this important Jewish celebration. The speaker will explain the symbolic meanings of the various items of the Passover feast and highlight their relationship to the Last Supper that Messiah celebrated

with the disciples, giving special emphasis on the redemptive significance of the crucifixion.

MESSIAH IN THE PASSOVER gives the Christian community insight into Jewish traditions so that the Jewish roots of Christianity can be better understood. This program also helps the Jewish and Christian communities understand their common heritage.

This meeting is open to the public. Both the Christian as well as the Jewish community are invited to attend. A love offering will be received.

For more information, please call 320573-2672 or email covenant@upsalacov.org.

Jim and Judy Douvier will be celebrating their 55th wedding anniversary with an open house on Saturday, April 27, 2024 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Pelican Lake Ballroom, St. Anna, MN.

Jim and Judy were married April 26, 1969 at St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Micki and Shawn Zobel are happy to announce the birth of their son, Rudy Michael Zobel, born February 14 at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, MN.

Rudy weighed 10 pounds, 2 ounces and measured 22 inches long.

Grandparents are Linda and John Kociemba of Grey Eagle, and Claire and John Zobel of Eagan. Great-grandparent is Virgil Marthaler of Greenwald.

The Grey Eagle/Swanville Knights of Columbus Council recently donated $500 to the Eagles Healing Nest in Sauk Centre. Presenting the check to Shannon Fladebo is Jim Pohlmann from the local council. Submitted by Ken Sinclair.

Easter gift bags were donated by Pine Lake Walkers to the residents at Upsala Senior Living. Pictured (from left) Mary Hollenkamp, Collette Kees and Doris Johnson.

Submitted by Tammy Frieler.

Sudoku

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,

My husband is a good, hardworking man, who has been stuck in a job he really doesn’t like for almost 10 years. He came to me the other day with an idea to cash out his 401(k) and using the money to open a business. He has always loved the idea of going into business for himself, and I want him to be happy, but I’m not sure this is a good idea. Do you have any advice?

-Renee

Dear Renee,

Yes, I do have some advice. And it can be summed up in one word.

Don’t.

I admire your husband’s spirit, but the way he wants to approach this turns the entire situation into a trap. Think about it. If his business idea doesn’t work out, you guys have lost your retirement savings, and bankruptcy becomes a very real possibility. Diving headfirst into opening a new business just because you’re bored with your current situation, or tired of answering to others, is not a good idea.

Look, I get it. Lots of folks have an entrepreneurial spirit. And everyone I know like that wants to live their dream. The problem is these dreams can turn into nightmares, for the entrepreneur and everyone around them, if they don’t plan wisely and very carefully ahead of time.

In my mind, one definition of a nightmare in business is “going all in.” When you’re

Discounts

320-428-5611

ccsgstcloud@gmail.com

Sudoku Answers from March 14

playing cards, this means betting everything on a single hand. You never go “all in” when it comes to business. So, for the moment, the first question he needs to ask himself is this: How can I live my dream without going all in?

For starters, he needs to find something he truly loves doing and can look forward to every single day. To have any chance of success, he’ll have to live and breathe that idea. I know you love this guy and want to help. So, the best thing you can do right now is express your concerns about his idea, and offer to help him think about what he could do every day that would make him smile. Once he has the answer to that question, the next step is figuring out how to start that business without putting your entire financial world in danger. In other words, how can he save up some money—and start small—instead of blowing your entire savings or going into debt?

If you have some cash other than your emergency fund or retirement fund, it’s okay to use some of that. But never, ever, go into debt to start a business, or pledge every dime you have to something that could be a complete disaster.

It’s not an either/or proposition, Renee. He doesn’t have to risk it all to get away from a job he hates and live his dream!

-Dave

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

Albany Senior Dining

Mon., Mar. 25: Chicken breast, sweet potato, pears, broccoli.

Tues., Mar. 26: Italian pork chop, baked beans, creamed potatoes, pears.

Wed., Mar. 27: Beef patty w/gravy, whipped potatoes, mixed vegetables, apple slices.

Thurs., Mar. 28: Sweet & sour pork, rice, oriental vegetables, mandarin oranges.

Fri., Mar. 29: Closed.

Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.

Ask The Motor Medics®

Dear Motor Medics, You guys make it easy for us when we need to repair our cars and I’m hoping you can shed a little light on a purchase question too. I have narrowed down my search to two vehicles that are relatively the same except that one is a front-wheel drive while the other is all-wheel drive. The AWD vehicle has 10,000 more miles but has the extra feature, so it is priced the same. I don’t see a lot of snowfalls in my area and until now have managed to get by every season with nothing more than a FWD car. If I go with the Allwheel drive system, will fuel mileage suffer significantly, and will the overall maintenance cost be a lot higher?

-David in Manhattan, Kansas

Dear David,

You will have to make your own decision as you will be the one making the purchase, but we can hopefully help you a bit. All-wheel drive vehicles get around better in the snow than their front-wheel drive counterparts, but if you are in an area that does not see much snow or ice and they plow it quickly, do you really need it? The fuel mileage will be a little lower, there will be slightly faster tire wear, and there are more parts to wear out. While the front-wheel drive is not as nimble in snow, a lot of people give that up for the savings they gain in other areas.

-Take care, the Motor Medics Dear Motor Medics, I recently purchased an older Chevrolet

Upsala - All Ages

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

Mon., Mar. 25: Ham, cheesy potato, vegetable, dessert.

Tues., Mar. 26: Hamburger gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans, dessert.

Wed., Mar. 27: Cook's choice.

Thurs., Mar. 28: Liver & onions, potato, vegetable, dessert.

Fri., Mar. 29: Breaded pollock, potato, vegetable, dessert. Pick up or eat in by 11:30 a.m. For meals, call a day before: 320-573-4435.

Monte Carlo with about 130k miles on it equipped with the 3.1 engine. The car runs great, but when the engine is cold, I hear a very loud banging or tapping sound until the engine is thoroughly warmed up. The sound is not as pronounced when the temperature is warm outside although it is still there. I have consulted with a few people including GM techs who tell me that this engine is known for this cold start noise which is caused by piston slap and that this is considered normal. Is there something I should or could do to minimize this? Are any engine oil additives that would help this?

Dear Darrin,

-Darrin in Brainerd, Minnesota

What these technicians have been telling you is correct. These engines tend to make noise upon a cold start, the colder the engine the louder the noise. Some people fear they are going to fly apart because they are so loud. With age they tend to become worse, but we can’t recall one that has come apart because of it. As a mechanic and current owner of a vehicle with this engine I’ve tried everything I can in the way of engine oil additives and haven’t found any that make even the slightest difference in the way it sounds so I’ve learned to live with it as many people with these cars have had to do.

-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.

Parkinson's Support Group Meeting

The Long Prairie Area Parkinson’s Support Group will meet April 2nd at 2 p.m. at the CentraCare West Campus Board Room, 20 9th St. SE, for anyone with Parkinson’s, their families, and caregivers.

We will be having group discussions on Parkinson’s concerns and finalizing plans for April, Parkinson’s Awareness Month.

For more information contact Rona Bleess at 320-874-0222.

Stearns Electric to Hold Annual Meeting

Stearns Electric Association hosts its 87th Annual Meeting on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at the Melrose High School Auditorium, 546 5th Ave. NE, Melrose. All member-consumers of Stearns Electric are invited to attend.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the Annual Meeting begins at 7 p.m. The first 300 members present will receive one pound of cheese and one pound of butter quarters as a gift from the Cooperative. All members present will be entered into a drawing to win one of ten door prizes, each valued at $100. An informal social will take place immediately following the meeting around 8 p.m.

The Stearns Electric Annual Meeting is an opportunity for Cooperative members to meet with Stearns Electric’s Board of Directors and employees, hear reports of past progress and future plans from the Cooperative’s executive team, and vote for open Board of Director positions.

In 2024, Districts 4, 5 and 9 will elect a director to the Cooperative’s Board. Members within each of these districts can vote in person at the meeting, or electronically or by mail beforehand. Ballots will be mailed to all Stearns Electric Association voting members on record within the voting districts on March 20, 2024. Electronic and mail voting closes at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3, 2024.

The following Stearns Electric members have applied to run and have met the qualifications for the Board of Directors as set by the Cooperative’s Bylaws:

DISTRICT 4 - Farming, Zion, Munson, Paynesville, Eden Lake and Luxemburg townships

Neil Franz – Albany (Farming Township)

Randy Rothstein, incumbent – Richmond (Munson Township)

DISTRICT 5 - Bangor, Crow Lake, Crow River, Getty, Glenwood, Grove, Grove Lake, Lake George, Lake Henry, North Fork, Raymond, Roseville, Spring Hill and St. Martin townships

Jeff Koehler, incumbent – Belgrade (Crow River Township)

Jeff Peter – Elrosa

DISTRICT 9 - St. Joseph, Wakefield, Rockville and Maine Prairie townships

Jerry Fries, incumbent – St. Cloud (St. Joseph Township)

Rick Schultz – St. Joseph

Please visit the Cooperative’s website, stearnselectric.org/annual-meeting, for complete details on the 87th Annual Meeting, including biographies for each Board of Director candidate. You can also call Stearns Electric at 800-962-0655 during regular business hours with questions about the Annual Meeting.

Governor Walz Urges Small Businesses Impacted by Lack of Snow to Apply for Business Assistance

As Minnesota continues to face record-high winter temperatures, Governor Tim Walz recently announced that Minnesota has unlocked federal funding for small businesses impacted by this winter’s historic drought conditions. Amid the warmest winter on record, federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available because of ongoing federal drought declarations affecting 81 Minnesota counties. Governor Walz urges small business owners to apply for assistance as soon as possible.

“From skiing and snowshoeing to winter festivals, snowy winters are part of our way of life in Minnesota. The low precipitation we’ve experienced this winter has had a real economic impact on small businesses that rely on snow and winter tourism to grow and survive,” said Governor Walz. “I encourage all impacted business owners to apply for assistance as soon as possible.”

From December to February, Minnesota experienced the warmest meteorological winter on record. Through February 29th, there has only been 14.3” of snow in the Twin Cities, the second-lowest season total on record. In Duluth, only 15.7” snow has fallen, with an average snow depth of 1.8” – both among the five lowest measures on record. This lack of precipitation has exacerbated an ongoing drought. Eighty one counties in Minnesota are currently covered by U.S. Department of Agriculture disaster declarations for drought.

Impacted businesses in counties with a drought declaration can apply for the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) through the Small Business Administration (SBA). The loans are designed to help businesses get through emergency situations that have impacted their economic well-being. Under the EIDL program, businesses can borrow up to $2 million to cover their actual losses. Businesses pay no interest on the loan for the first year and a maximum rate of four percent for the rest of the loan period. In order to take advantage of the program, businesses must apply by the application deadline for their county.

There are 81 counties in Minnesota covered by 13 disaster declarations. Business owners can learn more about eligibility, find an application, and learn more about application deadlines for their county at the SBA’s disaster assistance page.

Businesses impacted by a lack of precipitation will enter their county’s name and see a list of all open disasters for their county. They should pick one where the incident includes “drought.” Submit applications and find additional

Locally Growin’ Fundraiser for Local Libraries

Spring has sprung! It’s time to see what’s growin’ at the library. Locally Growin’, the fundraising campaign at Great River Regional Library (GRRL), runs now through Saturday, March 30, 2024. Our Locally Growin’ campaign keeps donations 100 percent within the branch library of the donor’s choosing. Each library selects a specific “wish” item and a campaign goal. Over $28,000 was raised around the region in 2023 to support a wide variety of goals. Each library’s goal is unique and focuses on its community’s interests and needs.

GRRL’s central library locations are raising money for the following this year:

· Sauk Centre wishes to add Try It Yourself snowshoe kits in the library;

· Melrose wishes to add audio read-along books to their collection;

· Albany wishes to add audio read-along books to their collection;

· Waite Park wishes to add audio readalong books to their collection;

· Foley wishes to add juvenile book series and a Try It Yourself pickle ball kit to their collection;

· St. Cloud wishes to add snowshoe and pickleball Try It Yourself kits to the collection and host a children’s magic and comedy per-

formance;

· Belgrade wishes to host animal and art programs;

· Richmond wishes to add Try It Yourself kits to their collection;

· Paynesville wishes to add audio readalong books to their collection;

· Cold Spring wishes to add Try It Yourself kits to their collection;

· Clearwater wishes to add juvenile book series and audio read-along books to their collection.

These are just a few of our libraries’ wishes across our six-county region. Stop by to learn what is growin’ at your local library! You can learn more about the Locally Growin’ campaign and make a difference for your library by giving online at https://griver.org/ library-news/locally-growin-2024.

Great River Regional Library (GRRL) provides library services at 32 public libraries and one to-go system in Benton, Morrison, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd and Wright Counties. GRRL2GO is a locker system that allows you to pick up items at the Sartell Community Center. GRRL supplies the residents of Central Minnesota with nearly 1 million books, CDs and DVDs, 250 public computers, and information services.

disaster assistance information at https://lending.sba.gov. Applicants may also contact Minnesota’s Small Business Development Centers and SBA’s Customer Service Center at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. You can also call 800-659-2955 from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. CT Monday through Friday. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

DEED is the state’s principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade and community development. Find out how DEED delivers for Minnesota by visiting the DEED website, JoinUsMn.com, CareerForceMN.com or follow us on X.

Local Library Events

Albany Library • 320-845-4843

Albany Adult Book Club: Last Tuesday of the month or call library for details. Tuesdays, March 26 and April 30: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Long Prairie Library • 320-732-2332

Mosaic Flower Pots: Join mosaic artist, Laura Ruprecht for an evening of learning the basics of mosaics. You will create your own flowerpot for you to plant your spring flowers in. All materials will be provided including a “takeout bag” of grout to finish the project at home. All skill levels & abilities are welcome; this is a beginner-level class. For ages 12 year and up. Limit 10. Registration required. This program was made possible with Arts & Cultural Heritage Funds from Minnesota’s Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment. Friday, March 22: 5:30- 7:30 p.m.

Sauk Centre Library • 320-352-3016

Open Mic: Bring your ukulele, acoustic guitar, and voice for a jam session with other local musicians. Beginners welcomed to sing, play, and learn from more seasoned performers! For adults and teens. Thursdays, March 28 & April 25: 5-7:00 p.m.

Upsala Library • 320-412-2048

Between the Covers Book Club: Join “Between the Covers” book club for adults the fourth Monday of every month. Refreshments are sometimes provided. Stop in for a copy of the book in print or audiobook (when available) ahead of time. Mondays, March 25 & April 22: 7-8:00 p.m.

ATTENTION! Grey Eagle Housing Association Members

The 44th Annual Meeting of the Grey Eagle Housing Association will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, April 8, 2024, in the Menge Community Room at Village View Apartments in Grey Eagle. (Our Monthly Meeting will be held at 3:45 p.m.)

Nomination & Elections of 2 Directors: If you qualify as a member of Grey Eagle Housing Association and live in the area, you may nominate yourself, or another member of the association, to the Board of Directors either at the meeting or in writing before the meeting. This year we will elect 2 people to three-year terms. Please submit the names you wish to nominate to Margaret Newberg, 303 Cedar Street North, #25, Grey Eagle, MN 56336.

For more information, please call 320-285-3973.

French Toast

Scrambled Eggs

Ham

Rolls

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• Make money & have fun!

HELP WANTED: Loader & wash plant operator, loader & crusher operator, road grader operator. Apply at Herdering Inc., St. Rosa, 320-836-2621. 3/28P

HELP WANTED: Apply in person at Elmdale Creamery & Locker or call for details, 320-573-2607.

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

WANTED TO BUY: Manual operated grain mill grinder to grind flour. Call 320412-9632. 3/28

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

Todd County HHS Employment Opportunity

Todd County HHS is looking for a reliable, service oriented individual to serve the citizens of Todd County for the following position:

**Social Worker – Child Services (full-time)

To learn more about this opening and how to apply visit the official Todd County website at https://www.co.todd.mn.us

Questions may be directed to Todd County Administration: (320) 732-6155. EOE

FOR SALE: 14-16 ft. boat trailer, used once, $900, offer. Call 612-283-2718.

FOR SALE: Michael Jordan "Liftoff" Tribute 1988 Slam Dunk Contest statute, $95 or BO. Text for pictures 320-894-9118.

HELP WANTED

Construction operators, are you tired of being away from your family and friends?

Here is a great opportunity to be home every evening

Help Wanted: Twardowski Excavating is seeking a motivated individual for full time or part time employment. Must have class A CDL, with a clean driving record. Job description is truck driver, machine operator, and laborer. Willing to train to operate excavating equipment. Wages and other compensation is based on experience

Please call Chad at (320) 760-1127.

FOR SALE: 2500W - 20 amp generator, DYNR/WINCO, 5 hp B&S, make an offer, $100 minimum. Call Harry Grammond 320760-1162. 3/28

GREAT STUDENT CAR!

ACCOMPANIMENT

ACRE ARAB

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

WANTED: Family looking for dairy farm. Call 320-360-6589.

FOR SALE: Brown sofa sleeper $250. Brown sofa with power recliners on ends, $200. Can deliver. Call 320-232-0823. 3/21

FOR SALE: Pheasant silvers hen. Call 320250-7331.

FOR SALE: Fulmer Ranger half helmet, size L, black, $20. Text for pictures 320815-1768.

FOR SALE: .375 & .416 cal reloading bullets, $10/50. Call 320-260-4551.

2004 NISSAN ALTIMA

*Like new condition

*83,000 actual miles

*Great on gas

Check it out at lovensauto.com

Loven’s Auto Center Swanville, MN 320-547-2465

• Reception DJ Entertainment

• Master Of Ceremonies

• Decor Lighting

• Selfie Photo Booth

• Ceremony Sound System

• Ceremony Officiating

• Off Grid Capabilities