Hometown
There’s more to winning than finishing first -By
MONDAYS • 5 PM
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In my favorite comic strip, “Peanuts,” Charlie Brown is walking off the baseball field with Lucy, his head down and totally dejected. Charlie says, “Another ball game lost! Good grief! I get tired of losing. Everything I do, I lose!”
Lucy replies: “Look at it this way, Charlie Brown. We learn more from losing than we do from winning.”
To which Charlie replies, “That makes me the smartest person in the world!”
Always the philosopher, Charlie Brown makes a great point. Now his charge is to use some of that knowledge to find a way to win, at least some of the time.
Avid sports fans will remember the legendary Alabama football coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, who said, “Winning isn’t everything, but it beats anything that comes in second.”
Winners always have an idea and look for a way to do it, while losers always have an excuse and look for a way to get out of it.
Winners say, “I’ll do it!” and “I can.” Losers always say, “It’s not my job” and “I can’t.”
Winners see an answer to every problem. Losers see a problem for every answer.
That attitude goes beyond sports. It applies through all phases of life
Winning in business is certainly important, but it's crucial to understand what "winning" truly means. Winning in business doesn't always mean being the biggest or the most profitable. Success can be defined by achieving specific goals, such as customer
satisfaction, innovation, market share or employee well-being.
Winning should be about creating longterm value rather than short-term gains. Sustainable growth involves building a solid foundation that ensures continued success over time, rather than just focusing on immediate victories.
In a rapidly changing business environment, adaptability is key. Winning businesses are those that can innovate and adapt to new challenges and opportunities, staying ahead of the competition.
A business that prioritizes its customers is more likely to succeed. Winning in business often means delivering exceptional value and service to customers, which leads to loyalty and positive word-of-mouth.
How you win is as important as winning itself. Upholding ethical standards and integrity can enhance a company's reputation and ensure long-term success.
“Winning doesn’t always mean being first,” said Bonnie Blair, five-time gold medal American speed skater. “Winning means you’re doing better than you’ve done before.”
Strange as it sounds, losing can be part of winning. Businesses that learn from their failures and use them as steppingstones to improve processes and strategies are often the ones that ultimately succeed.
Renowned college football coach Knute Rockne said: “Some say the will to win is a bad thing. In what way? Education is supposed to prepare a young person for life, and life is competition. Success in life goes only to the person who competes and wins. A successful lawyer is the one who goes out and wins – wins law cases. A successful physician is one who goes out and wins – saves lives and restores people to health…. There is no reward for losing. So that leaves living life only one way – with the will to win.”
Harvey Mackay
I’ll take that one step further. I love to win, whether it’s a business success, completing a volunteer project, landing my golf drive on the green, hitting a fundraising goal or even crossing another item off my bucket list.
And I find that just because I win at something, it doesn’t have to mean that someone else loses. One business achievement can inspire those around you to aim higher. When winning becomes part of the culture, the company wins, employees win, customers win and the community wins. In other words, winning can be contagious.
A football coach, speaking at his college’s booster club fundraiser, was having a difficult time avoiding the subject of his team’s losing season. He finally decided to make light of his predicament and said, “As you all know, we’re not doing too well in our conference. We’re not winning any ball games, but you must admit, we are exciting to watch.”
With that he proceeded to expound on the virtues of playing the game with enthusiasm versus the need to win. At the program’s conclusion, a faithful supporter approached the coach and offered this suggestion: “Why don’t you play with a little less hype and win a few games.”
Mackay's Moral: In business, winning is not just about beating the competition; it's about achieving your goals with integrity, adaptability and a focus on long-term success.
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
FRI.-SAT., NOVEMBER 15-16
• Upsala Drama Club Presents Just Another High School Play at 7:30 p.m. at the Upsala School auditorium.
SAT.-SUN., NOVEMBER 16-17
• Swanville High School Presents Murder Most Fowl Play at 7:30 p.m. at the Swanville High School auditorium.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18
• Minnesota Darkhouse & Angling Association Heartland Chapter Meeting starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Greenwald Pub. See ad on page 6.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20
• Grey Eagle Senior Center Meeting at 11 a.m. Potluck & Bingo to follow.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
• Jingle & Mingle 2nd Annual Pop Up Holiday Sale from 9 a.m-3 p.m. at the Freeport Senior Center.
• Harvest Supper from 5-8 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church basement, New Munich.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24
• CUF Matching Grant Breakfast from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Church of St. Anthony of Padua, St. Anthony.
• Gethsemane Lutheran Church, Upsala Celebrating their 145th Anniversary starting at 10:30 a.m.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28
• Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Word of Life Free Lutheran Church, Upsala. See ad on page 5.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1
• Grey Eagle Community Chorus &
Handbell Choir Annual Advent/Christmas Concert at 2 p.m. at the Grey Eagle United Methodist Church.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3
• Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting at 2 p.m. at CentraCare West Campus Board Room, Long Prairie.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4
• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle.
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 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 first Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
Weekend Weather
Zebra mussels confirmed in Long Lake in Todd
County
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Long Lake, near Little Sauk Township in Todd County.
An angler contacted the DNR after finding a zebra mussel on aquatic plants in Long Lake. A DNR invasive species specialist found zebra mussels on a dock at the Long Lake public water access.
Several new zebra mussel populations in Minnesota lakes in recent years were first reported by property owners and lake service providers removing docks, boats, and boat lifts at the end of the season. The DNR reminds people to carefully check boats and trailers, docks and lifts, and all other water-related equipment for invasive species when removing equipment for seasonal storage.
Whether or not a lake has any invasive species, Minnesota law requires people to: Clean watercraft, trailers and equipment to remove aquatic plants and prohibited invasive species.
Drain all water and leave drain plugs out during transport.
Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
Never release bait, plants or aquarium pets into Minnesota waters.
Dry docks, lifts and rafts for 21 days before moving them from one water body to another.
These additional steps reduce the risk of spreading aquatic invasive species:
Decontaminate watercraft and equipment – find free stations on the courtesy decontamination page of the DNR website (mndnr.gov/ decon).
Spray watercraft and equipment with high-pressure water or rinse with water if high-pressure water is not available.
Dry watercraft and equipment for at least five days before using in another water body.
People should contact a Minnesota DNR aquatic invasive species specialist (mndnr.gov/ invasives/ais/contacts.html) if they think they have found zebra mussels or any other invasive species that was not already known to be in the water body.
More information is available on the aquatic invasive species page of the DNR website (mndnr.gov/ais).
Embracing Small Business Saturday: why shopping local matters for our communities
By Andi McClintic, assistant director of Lending Services with the Center for Rural Affairs
As November begins, so does the busiest shopping season of the year. We’re familiar with Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but let’s not overlook Small Business Saturday, November 30th - a day dedicated to supporting the businesses that keep our communities vibrant and unique. On this day, shop small and make an impact close to home by supporting the shops, services, and makers in our own backyards.
Rural and local businesses face unique pressures. They compete not only with the convenience of online shopping but also with the often lower prices offered by big-box stores. While saving a few dollars might be tempting, supporting local businesses offers value that goes beyond the bottom line. Local shops offer jobs, character, and a sense of shared community; and each of us has a role to play in keeping our local economies thriving.
When we spend locally, we keep more money circulating within our community. Dollars spent at a local business are reinvested in other local businesses, services, and wages, creating a positive cycle of economic growth. This keeps our towns and neighborhoods financially resilient and can contribute to community improvements and local projects.
When we think of local businesses, we might envision the shops lining Main Street,
but small businesses come in all forms. Many local entrepreneurs run online or home-based businesses, selling unique, handcrafted, or custom items through their websites or social media platforms. Following and engaging with these businesses on social media is a great way to stay connected and discover the variety of products they offer.
This Small Business Saturday, let’s show up for the businesses that make our towns feel like home. Support local businesses not just for the unique products and services they offer, but for the positive impact they have on our neighborhoods, our economy, and our sense of community.
From the Desk of Pastor Bruce
As a child, we played with the neighborhood kids all the time. When it was time for supper mom would yell out the door and we would all come home. I grew up in a trailer court and we had lots of kids to play with. One kid, (a few years older) was trouble and we knew it. We couldn’t believe anything he said, always in trouble at school. We lived fairly close to the river, but far enough away that we were not allowed to go there.
One day, Billy asked if we wanted to go to the river and play. We really wanted to go, but mom made it clear that we were never to go to the river. We told him that we would have to ask but were pretty sure we couldn’t. Billy told us that he already asked our mom, and she said yes. I’m not sure what we were thinking, Billy would never ask and mom would never trust Billy. But we had a great time playing at the river that afternoon until we got home. Mom of course was furious with us. That is the only time mom withheld supper from us.
Why does Satan make sin so appealing? Let’s look into Scripture just a bit. Genesis 3:4-6 “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5“For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.” Satan makes sin appealing and a must have. I knew better than to go to the river with Billy, but it was something that was out of reach, and an exciting adventure. 1 John 2:16 “For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life— comes not from the Father but from the world.” Guard your hearts, be wise to his tactics, seek God in all you do!
-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Gingerbread Architecture: The Sweet Elements of Design Workshop
ident/Project Architect at GLTArchitects. The class on December 7th will be taught by Emily, preservation expert and educational historian. Stick around following each class for an optional talk/tour courtesy of 510 Art Lab executive director, Emily Kramer, on November 23rd and Fisher’s Club owner, Cristina Berg, on December 7th. Both locations have their own unique history and building design sure to stimulate innovative gingerbread architecture creativity.
Tap your inner architect at this delicious all-ages, family-friendly workshop. Learn the basics of architecture and structural design using everyone’s favorite building materials – gingerbread and frosting. Learning couldn’t be more sweet! Taught by built environment preservation specialists, Evan and Emily, this hands-on interactive workshop shows you how to create your own scrumptious architectural masterpiece with gingerbread kits from Cold Spring Bakery. It’s sure to be a tasty treat! Gingerbread Architecture: The Sweet Elements of Design will be held twice: Saturday, November 23rd, at the 510 Art Lab in Sauk Centre and Saturday, December 7th, at Fisher’s Club in Avon. The class on November 23rd will be taught by Evan Larson, AIA Principal/Pres-
The classes run from 11 a.m. to noon. Class size is limited, so register today! For more information and to register, visit stearnshistorymuseum.org or contact Ann Marie Johnson at 320-253-8424 or development@ stearns-museum.org.
Marion L. Schumacher
Marion L. Schumacher, age 86 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully, in her sleep on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at the Cura of Melrose Care Center in Melrose, Minnesota. A gathering of friends and family was held Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at the PattonSchad Funeral Home in Sauk Centre. A private inurnment will be held in Calvary Cemetery.
Marion Louise Cokely was born January 9, 1938 in Sauk Centre, Minnesota to Francis “Red” and Luella (Fenton) Cokely. She graduated from Sauk Centre High School in 1956. She was united in marriage to Roger Schumacher on September 22, 1959 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. The couple resided in Melrose until moving to their lake home in Sauk Centre in October of 1992. Marion worked at Fingerhut in Sauk Centre for 19 years until her retirement. In her younger years, Marion enjoyed roller skaking. Later in life, she enjoyed reading, watching football and baseball, and playing cards and Yahtzee.
Suriviors include her daughters, Kim (Brian) Polingo of Farmington, Arkansas and Joanie (Mark) Sobotka of Sauk Centre; six grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granson; and sisters, Pat (Terry) Crider of Sauk Centre and Shelly (Tim) DePue of Avoca, Arkansas.
Marion was preceded in death by her husband, Roger Schumacher on September 11, 2000; son, Jeffery Schumacher; parents; brothers, David and Dennis Cokely; and sisters, Diane Baker and Karen Fisher.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
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Frank A. Maleska
Frank A. Maleska, age 93 of Melrose, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at the Cura Care Center in Melrose, Minnesota. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday, November 13 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Virgil Helmin officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery with military honors by the Melrose Veterans Honor Guard.
Frank Ambrose Maleska was born April 10, 1931 in St. Joseph, Minnesota to Frank and Rose (Mock) Maleska. He served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1956. He was united in marriage to Dolores Riedeman on September 10, 1956 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids. Frank was involved in the turkey industry for 60 years and was co-owner/operator of the Melrose Feed Mill. Frank volunteered numerous hours serving on various boards and councils including the Credit Union, Meadowlark Country Club, Minnesota Turkey Growers Association, Melrose City Council, and St. Mary’s Council. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose, Melrose Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, and the American Legion Post 101 for over 60 years. Frank enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, traveling, and watching all Minnesota sporting teams on television. Frank was a kind, generous, and selfless person who will be deeply missed.
Survivors include his children, Roger Maleska of Clear Lake, Tom (Joni) Maleska of Melrose, Cathy (Gary) Nelson of Brainerd, Cindy Maleska of Columbia Heights, Lisa Howe of Minneapolis, Sharon Maleska of St. Anthony, and Joel (Wendy Spanier) Maleska of Melrose; ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; brother, Al (Marlene) Maleska of St. Joseph; and sister-in-law, Christine Maleska of Avon.
Frank was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores Maleska on February 21, 2024; parents; son, Glen Maleska; son-in-law, Brian Howe; brothers and sisters, Marie Helmin, Josephine Hollier, John Maleska, Greg Maleska, Agnes Mike, and Ted Maleska.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
John Determan
John Determan passed away
Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at the St. Cloud Hospital at the age of 70. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place for John on Friday, November 15, 2024, at 11:00 AM at St. Mary's of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Long Prairie, Minnesota with a burial immediately following at the church cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.
John Henry Determan was born December 18, 1953, to Rudolph and Margaret (Richards). He attended Long Prairie School District, graduating in 1972. After graduation John attended the University of Minnesota Morris for two years. John then returned to Long Prairie and was employed by the city from July 1974 to December 1985. John married Sharon Christine Wiechmann on February 14, 1974, and together they raised three beautiful children, Christina Marie, Margaret Naomie, and John Joseph. Later in life, John would return to school at Wadena Area Technical Vocational Institute to study telephone services and would be employed in that industry from 1986 to 2002. When not working his day job, John was a self-employed logger until 2002. John also did seasonal work for St. John’s Abby and worked for Nextstep Adolescent Halfway House in Staples, Minnesota until 2019. John was never afraid to try new things, he worked hard and enjoyed his time riding Harley’s, hunting, fishing and watching movies. John met Sherry George in September of 2015, and they became engaged the following year. Together they remodeled their house in town to sell and built their shouse on John’s 100 acres. They planted 19 fruit trees, dozens of grapes vines and put up the split rail fence on the property. John’s health started to decrease in 2021, Sherry was his constant companion, forever love, and care giver.
John is preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Margaret Determan; wife Sharon; grandson Xaivier Kuen; brother and sister-inlaw, Rudolph and Carla Determan JR.
Left to carry on his memory is his fiancé, Sherry George; children Christina, Maggie and John; granddaughter Annabelle; Sherry’s children, Jenny George, Katie Jo George; Sherry’s granddaughter, Kailah. Many nieces & nephews; and family friends Christopher (Ingnon) Petrie, and their daughter Alita, Jim Richards; favorite four-legged friends, Charlie and Teddy.
Arrangements for John are with the Iten Funeral Home of Browerville.
Sherry Rausch
Sherry A. Rausch, age 54 of Melrose, passed away unexpectedly surrounded by family on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at the CentraCare Hospital in Melrose, Minnesota. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, November 11, 2024 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.
Sherry Ann Froelich was born on July 22, 1970, in Melrose, Minnesota to Harriet (Middendorf) Froelich. She graduated from Melrose High School in 1988. Sherry pursued a career in social work and graduated from Fergus Falls College in 1989. She was united in marriage to John “Jack” Rausch on September 14, 1991 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. Sherry worked at Pope County as a social worker and most recently as a hospice volunteer coordinator for CentraCare.
Sherry was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose.
Sherry enjoyed shopping, sports, and being a basketball coach for a brief time. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family, kids, and grandchildren. Recently, her hospice co-workers described Sherry as “An amazing person. The team was lucky to have her coordinate our volunteer program. She was creative and had a relentless dedication to her patients and volunteers.”
Sherry was loved dearly by her husband, Jack and their three daughters, their spouses, and grandchildren. She was a “Kick-Ass Mom." She leaves behind many Godchildren, nieces, and nephews who knew they could always talk to Sherry, and she would be there for them.
Survivors include her husband, John “Jack” Rausch of Melrose; children, Shayla (Ricky) Frie of Greenwald, Madison (Matthew) Schnaare of Waconia, and Haiden (Brendan) Crayne of Superior, WI; three grandchildren; Ronan and Reylene Frie, and Baylor Schnaare; mother, Harriet Froelich of Melrose; sisters and brother, Karen (Kevin) Wensmann of Melrose, Amy Tschida (Frank Helmin) of Grey Eagle, and Todd Froelich (Sandy Joiner) of Paynesville; in-laws, Nancy Rausch of Melrose, William (Joyce) Rausch of Melrose, Ken (Nancy) Rausch of Prior Lake, Dave (Jean) Rausch of Hartselle, AL, and Tom (Sharon) Rausch of Hiawassee, GA; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Sherry was preceded in death by her grandparents, Henry and Loretta Middendorf; parents-in-law, Wendell and Helen Rausch; brother-in-law, James “Jim” Rausch, and infant sister-in-law, Ann Rausch.
Brian’s Painting
Interiors, Exteriors, Staining, Varnishing
Brian Middendorf 320-293-9939 40 Years Experience
“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne
This is a story about John Gessell and his hobby that began about 80 years ago.
Typically when someone is in the eighth grade, they are usually not involved in an idea that will take up most of their spare time during their lifetime. Don't get me wrong, this fellow had other interests in his life too. He was one of the first turkey farmers in central Minnesota. His first turkey barn was called Four Way and involved three other partners. From there the number of barns increased.
During the eighth grade, John began his first wood project. It was a 12 foot, enclosed bow speed boat. The building project was done in the basement of the family home. He had to keep the dimensions of the basement stairs and the outside door in mind constantly, because when it was finished he couldn't leave it in the basement. The whole project was completed during the late 1940's and was done without any of today's modern tools.
At about the beginning of the Covid arrival, he began building toys. They were made completely of wood and were tractors, fire trucks, semi's, cars and other toys that his grandchildren may enjoy. They were done with great precision and used different woods to create different colors for the various parts of the toy. The different woods were usually found in central Minnesota. He now uses new, modern lathes, saws and planers. The toys were built as an item to place on a shelf, rather than something to play with.
The following years found John making urns, ornamental boxes, triangular flag displays for veterans. He also began to build a wooden, open
book, with the person's name on the left open page and either the Hail Mary on the right page for Catholics and the Lord's Prayer on the right page for Protestants. These were quite popular as a gift to mourning family members. The wooden cemetery vaults and ash storage boxes had a space on the front for the deceased person's picture.
He recently began working on breadboards and wooden wall hangings. His recent wall hanging includes a waving American Flag with the stripes made of wood.
The breadboards are made of one inch maple strips, glued together to avoid warping. One side is made for bread cutting and the other side is an engraved picture of the customer's choice. One can even have someone's picture on the decorated side.
What began as a boat built in the basement has become a project for the whole family. John's kids and grandchildren spend time and talents in the production of various wood treasures.
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
Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Upsala will be celebrating their 145th anniversary on Sunday, November 24, 2024. Service is at 10:30 a.m. followed by potluck lunch and pie. All are welcome.
The Knights of Columbus- St. Isidore Council #9307 of Holdingford participated in the Knights of Columbus Coats for Kids Program again this year. The council had the pleasure of distributing 168 coats, 150 stocking hats, and 400 pairs of mittens, equally between Holdingford Elementary School and Avon Elementary School. This was the third year of their involvement with the program, and our local businesses were overwhelmingly generous with donations toward the coat drive. Pictured is Holdingford Elementary donation (front from left) Lloyd Rausch, Marvin Eiynck, Jayme Panek, Jim Stang (Elementary Principal), and Jennifer Meemken (School Social Worker).
Pictured is the Avon Elementary donation (front from left) Avon Elementary students; (back) Jason Mielke (Elementary Principal), Marvin Eiynck, Jayme Panek, and Lloyd Rausch. Submitted by Marvin Eiynck.
John Gessell
John Gessell of Swanville holding a breadboard he crafted, along with urn boxes displayed to his right.
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, I have a money market account that I use as both my checking and savings account. I have a debit card and check writing privileges with the account, and I get a better interest rate on my money. Is what I’m doing a good idea, or is it better for some reason to have separate savings and checking accounts?
-Bonnie
Dear Bonnie, It’s always good to have a physical and emotional boundary between your savings and the everyday funds in your checking account. This is especially important when you’re talking about savings or an emergency fund. There’s nothing inherently wrong with getting a better interest rate, but when everything is all lumped together it can become easy for the line between savings and checking to become blurred. And if you’re not careful, you might find yourself dipping into your savings or emergency fund for things that aren’t emergencies without realizing what you’re doing.
-Dave
Dear Dave,
My husband and I have been blessed financially in our work and in our lives. We simply love working, money aside, even though we could both easily retire and be very comfortable. These feelings have made me
think a lot lately about what’s really important in life. How do you balance ambition with contentment?
-Barb
Dear Barb,
I get the feeling you thought ambition was the opposite of contentment. But I don’t look at it that way. It’s not like a teeter-totter. They don’t have to balance out, because they’re not on the same spectrum.
I’m content and ambitious. I’m content with what we have and what God has entrusted to us. But I’m not content to sit around and do nothing just because we’ve been blessed. That kind of attitude isn’t contentment. It’s apathy. I do what I do because I love helping people. You can have peace and contentment, and still be ambitious. They’re not inconsistent concepts.
In my mind, problems are created when ambitious people are driven by a lack of contentment. Let me ask you something. Do you think Jesus was content? Do you think He was ambitious? I believe the answer to both questions is yes. Just think about how He lived, and how He instructed us to live. Think about His mission and His purpose.
More than anything, I think it has to do with what’s driving your ambition. If a desire for “stuff” is the motivating factor, then maybe they are on the same spectrum. But that’s a really bad way to live your life. You can buy and pile up tons of stuff, but you’re not going to be truly happy until you find contentment.
-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.
Ask The Motor Medics®
From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Dear Motor Medics,
I have a 2018 Chevy Malibu and every morning when I start it or if it sits for more than six hours it rattles so loudly that I am scared that something may come apart. I took it to a shop who said that I need new timing chains. The cost of the chains is around $2000. I asked why they failed, and they told me that it was likely due to lack of regular oil changes. I have always changed the engine oil very soon after the dash light comes on telling me to change it. What else could it be and will it happen again?
-Bob in Cloquet, Minnesota
Dear Bob,
Timing chain failure is very common in some cars and trucks. The chains wear and stretch and then they get very noisy. If they get too loose, they will jump teeth on the gears and cause the engine to be heavily damaged. The shop is also correct in their assessment that it could be from lack of regular oil changes. That dash light is far from perfect. As you have probably noticed, it can range greatly from a few thousand miles to five or six thousand, which is way too much. We have found that most vehicles that have common timing chain failures have a much lower failure rate when the oil is changed at three months or three thousand miles whichever occurs first. Once the chains are replaced try changing your lube routine and see.
-Take care, The Motor Medics
Dear Motor Medics,
We have two seasons in our area of the world, pothole season and pothole season. It seems like every time I drive, I hit at least one and I have had to make repairs to my car twice in the past two years due to damage caused by them. The last hit bent a front lower control arm and the one before that bent a wheel in the back. My son has now hit one with his car and the shop tells him it will cost over $4000 to repair it. It needs a front and rear strut on the passenger side and lower control arms and a rack and pinion. Once they fix it they will also need to align it. Is there any way to save some
money on this?
Dear David,
-David in Ogden, Utah
There are things you can do to get this car back on the road. We would suggest checking into certified used parts. There are hundreds of self-service and full-service auto recycling yards across the country that supply parts. Using recycled parts can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Some people have a phobia about used parts but every car on the road is driving around with all its parts used as soon as it drives off the lot. Many have at least a one-year warranty too. Ask your shop about them.
-Take care, the Motor Medics For entertainment only. Always consult your local shop and follow all safety procedures before repairs. Come visit the Motor Medics® online at Underthehoodshow.com.
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070
Mon., Nov. 18: Hamburger rice hotdish, broccoli, pineapple, bread.
Tues., Nov. 19: BBQ pork on bun, tater tots, apple slices. Wed., Nov. 20: Italian pork chop, creamed potatoes, pears.
Thurs., Nov. 21: Salisbury steak, paprika potatoes, broccoli, bread. Fri., Nov. 22: Sweet & sour chicken, rice, oriental vegetables, mandarin oranges, bread. Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
Stearns Electric Linemen Help with Hurricane Relief in
South Carolina and Florida
Stearns Electric Linemen Luke Gilbertson and Jacob “Mittens” Ronning spent 2 weeks in the South helping restore numerous power outages caused by back-to-back hurricanes.
The linemen left on Wednesday, October 2 for mutual aid assistance at Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative in Pickens, South Carolina following the devastation left behind by Hurricane Helene. After five days of service, they were set to travel home to Minnesota when another mutual aid call came in from the Florida Electric Cooperative Association. They turned around and headed to Peace River Electric Cooperative in Wauchula, Florida to help with restoration efforts post-Hurricane Milton.
“As an electric cooperative, we follow the seven cooperative principles. One of those is ‘Cooperation Among Cooperatives.’ Many times, this principle is exemplified through mutual aid efforts where we assist neighboring
Local Library Events
Grey Eagle Library • 320-285-2505
Mosaic Ornament Class: Join mosaic artist, Laura Ruprecht from Laura Liz Mosaic Biz in creating your own mosaic ornament for the holidays. You will use an array of precut-colored glass pieces to decorate a 4-inch round ball. All materials will be provided including a “takeout bag” of grout to finish your ornament at home. All skill levels & abilities are welcome, this is a beginner-level class.
Saturday, Nov. 16: 10:00 a.m.-Noon 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. Held on the 4th Thursday of the month.
Thursday, Nov. 21: 5:00-7:00 p.m. Upsala Library • 320-412-2048
Watercolor Card: Join us for a fun watercolor card workshop with Jim Flaa suitable for all skill levels. At the end of the workshop, each participant will have created their own watercolor greeting card, complete with an envelope. The card can be mailed or framed in a 5x7 frame for display. All materials provided. Limit 10. Registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Upsala Public Library.
Saturday, Nov. 16: 10:00 a.m.-Noon
cooperatives in restoring power to their members following either ice or summer storms,”
Matt O’Shea, CEO of Stearns Electric Association, said. “Every once in a while, we get a mutual aid call from another state, as was the case this October, and we are happy to answer those calls whenever we are able.”
Since Gilbertson and Ronning were so close to Florida when the second call for mutual aid came in, they were among the first cooperatives on-site to assist at Peace River Electric, where they spent another three long days navigating mass destruction and restoring power outages.
Stearns Electric welcomed the linemen home on Tuesday, October 15 with a police escort in Melrose, provided by the Melrose Police Department.
A Sermon Funny
One beautiful Sunday morning, the pastor announced to the congregation: "My good people, I have here in my hands four sermons...a $100 sermon that lasts five minutes; a $50 sermon that lasts fifteen minutes, a $10 sermon that lasts a full hour; and a coin sermon that lasts till noon. "Now, we'll take the collection to see which one you want."
Morrison Co. Sheriff’s Office
Accident: November 9, 2024: At approximately 8:25 p.m., received a report of a two-vehicle accident involving a tractor on 30th Street, approximately two miles west of Bowlus, MN in Two Rivers Township.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, 61-year-old Robert Gerads of Bowlus, MN was traveling west on 30th Street in a tractor hauling a trailer. John Loxterkamp, a 72-yearold from Swanville, MN was also traveling west on 30th Street in a Buick LeSabre. Loxterkamp’s vehicle collided into the back of the trailer on the roadway. Gerads was transported to St. Cloud Hospital by Mayo Clinic Ambulance with unknown injuries. Loxterkamp was treated at the scene for minor injuries.
The Morrison County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the MN State Patrol, Bowlus Fire Department, Bowlus First Response Team, Upsala Fire and Rescue and Mayo Clinic Ambulance.
Stearns Co. Sheriff’s Office
Crash: November 7, 2024: At approximately 2:49 a.m., the Stearns County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding a single vehicle crash with injuries near the intersection of 115th Avenue and County Road 17 in Brockway Township. Angela Schaefer, 38, of St. Stephen was driving a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado and reported swerving to avoid a deer in the roadway. Evidence at the scene indicated her vehicle was traveling northbound on 115th Avenue, and failed to stop for the stop sign at the T-intersection where 115th Avenue intersects with County Road 17. Her vehicle continued traveling northbound from County Road 17 and collided with a tree approximately 150 feet north of the intersection, near the address of 11512 County Road 17. Schaefer was transported by
Mayo Ambulance to St. Cloud Hospital for injuries she had sustained in the crash. Alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor in this crash, which remains under investigation.
The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Mayo Ambulance and the Holdingford Fire Department.
Crash: November 8, 2024: Around 12:02 a.m., the Stearns County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a single vehicle rollover on County Road 11 near 365th Street in Oak Township. This intersection is approximately 1/4 of a mile south of the city of Freeport.
Upon arrival deputies located a 2003 Ford Ranger in the east ditch on County Road 11, just south of 365th Street. The driver, identified as Ethan Fischer, 16, said he was driving northbound on County Road 11 when he swerved to avoid a deer. The ranger went off road and entered the steep ditch. The ranger attempted to return to the roadway but ultimately rolled approximately two times before coming to rest on all four wheels. Fischer was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash and was able to escape with minor injuries.
Gas/Diesel/Premium • Propane Exchange Groceries • Pep's Pork • Schaefer's Market Harry's Pizza
Bait
Empty Stocking Program
The Empty Stocking Program is currently putting together a list of families with children ages 15 and under that need some help with gifts this holiday season. The child must be a resident of the Grey Eagle/Burtrum area.
If your family needs help this holiday season or if you would like to sponsor a family, please call Janine at 320-223-8459 or Sherry at 320-309-8735 by December 9, 2024.
*Gifts turned in by December 16, 2024.
Locations: Chris’ Country Store, Magnifi Financial, St. Joseph’s Church, United Methodist Church, Grey Eagle Gas & Grocery. Call if you would like to be a tree sponsor or to “Adopt a Family.”
Jacob “Mittens” Ronning and Luke Gilbertson, Stearns Electric Linemen, return home from mutual aid efforts in South Carolina and Florida.
HELP WANTED
Montessori on Main in Avon is hiring for our Montessori infant & toddler program teacher positions.
Full Time & Part Time Positions Available
We strive for children to be independent, self motivated and to love learning and others around them
Please email itmontessorionmain@ yahoo.com with inquiries.
HELP WANTED: Someone to dust & vacuum our home once every two weeks! Big Birch area. Call 320-836-2588.
WANTED TO BUY: Dairy Heifers and Cows. 320-894-7175. SC-evB
WANTED: Good used camper van, reasonable price. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn
WANTED: Machinery for scrap or salvage specializing in combines, paying cash. 320292-8993.
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.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: People to help sew bags for the veterans at the St. Cloud VA. Fabric & supplies provided. Call Cindy 651-485-4731.
WANTED: Small trailer, 4 ft. wide by 9 ft. long. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn
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. 12/6
FOR SALE: Air impact wrenches, 3 CBs: 1 Cobra 19, 1 Galaxy 959, 1 General Lee, 1 set of 17" tire chains, new in the box. 320260-2159 MT-tfn
FOR SALE: Local honey $10/pint, $20/ quart. Pickup St. Rosa 320-290-0471. 11/21
FOR SALE: Netherland Dwarf rabbits. Call 320-333-4168.
FOR SALE: Shih Tzu mix puppies, born June 25, $250, 1 female, 3 males, vet checked, shots. Call first 877-243-2823, then 320-573-2631 for hearing assist. 11/21
APARTMENTS FOR RENT
Call Loreen for Details! Cats Ok
FOR SALE: Medic therapeutic vibrating fitness platform, $100 or bo. Call 320-3600003. 11/14
FREE: In good condition leather headboard and footboard for bed. Also other furniture. Call 320-491-0024.
FOR SALE: Snow blower, 8 hp, 26 in. electric start, $250. Call 612-283-2718.
FOR SALE: Deer stands with platforms, $100 each, have 3. Call 320-573-3939. 11/21
TIRES FOR SALE: LT295/70R 17 tires with 3/4 tread left, $60 per tire, 4 tires for sale. Call 320-250-5511. 11/21
Todays Thought
My counselor says I have a preoccupation with vengeance. Ha! We'll see about that!
Swanville Junior High Student of the Month
Swanville Public School is pleased to announce the September Junior High Student of the Month, eighth grade student Chloe Leyendecker. Chloe is the daughter of Susan and the late Anthony Leyendecker. She enjoys reading and playing volleyball. As of right now, Chloe is leaning toward attending college to become a nurse. Chloe is involved with volleyball and softball for athletic activities.
She was chosen as an outstanding server for volleyball by her coach. Chloe is also active in her church. She loves coming to school so she can see her friends. Her advice to other students is to “pay attention, do your work, have fun and try your best!”
Mrs. Liza Hasse, math instructor, offers the following comments about Chloe, “Chloe is organized and is ready to learn every day. She strives to do her best and it shows in her submitted work. Chloe will take the time to learn from her mistakes to help increase her understanding. Chloe has a positive attitude in the classroom towards others and her learning. She is kind, helpful, and polite to her peers and her teachers. I have enjoyed having Chloe in class and look forward to continuing working with her.”
Swanville Senior High Student of the Month
Swanville High School is pleased to announce the September Senior High Student of the Month, senior Lily Peterson. Lily is the daughter of Kim and Luke Peterson. She enjoys lifting weights, playing volleyball, baking and hanging out friends and family. Lily plans to attend the University of Mary. She has been recruited and signed with them to play volleyball and major in elementary education. Her favorite part of school is seeing her friends in school and getting to play sports.
Jason Lee, Science Teacher says, “Lily is excellent in all aspects of being a great student. She works extremely hard to complete all tasks set in front of her at a very high level. In college chemistry, Lily is always seeking a complete understanding of the material even on the most difficult topics. She is a exemplary role model as a student, and a great leader in group projects. Lily has accomplished great things in Swanville, and I have no doubt that list will continue to grow throughout her life.”
Lily has been very active as a Swanville student. She has been on student council since entering seventh grade. She was in band in grades seven through ten. She is a three-sport athlete, participating in Volleyball, Basketball
and Softball since seventh grade. This year she is adding participating in the fall play to her list of accomplishments. Additionally, Lily helps out our Swanville community by volunteering with SAB (Swanville Athletic Boosters) doing meat raffles and summer parades. Lily has accomplished much during her years as a student. She has received All Academic Prairie Conference for Volleyball, Basketball and Softball in grades nine through eleven. She was the Morrison County Record Player of the year in Volleyball as a sophomore and junior. She was on the All-Conference volleyball team during the 2022, 2023 and 2024 Volleyball season, as well as for basketball during the 23/24 season. She was the Bulldog MVP for volleyball in the 23/24 season. She has lettered in all three sports since her freshman year. She has reached the 1,000 milestone in volleyball for digs, assists and kills. She was the leading scorer during the 23/24 Lady Bulldog Basketball season.
Her advice to other students is to “make the most of your time in high school because it goes by faster than you think.”
Nicollet Gammon Deering, Physical Education Instructor adds, “Lily is all around an incredible student, athlete, teammate, and friend to all. Everything she does is done with positivity, level headedness and confidence. Lily shows she is a true leader by her team-focused approach, accountability, patience and dedication. Lily is often found encouraging and building others up instead of boasting about herself- her many accomplishments. Congratulations, Lily Peterson!”
The Grey Eagle/Swanville Knights of Columbus proudly supports seminarians on their faithful journeys. This year, they donated $500 to 6 seminarians. Pictured is Grand Knight Tanner Koetter (left) presenting the checks to Father Doug Liebsch, vocations director for the Diocese of St. Cloud.
BOAT - RV - PONTOON