Hometown News Nov. 22, 2012

Hometown News Grey Eagle, Burtrum, St. Rosa, Freeport, Upsala, Albany, Holdingford, St. Anna, Avon, Swanville, Melrose

November 22, 2012

FREE Publication

Hennen Lumber Co. & Hennen Floor Covering Wishes Everyone A Happy Thanksgiving!

Hennen

Floor Covering:

320-836-2177 Lumber:

Lumber & Floor Covering

320-836-2135

Freeport, MN

Mon.-Fri.: 7 am-5 pm Sat.: 8 am-12 pm

Albany Fleet Supply

Atkinson Well & Pump Ltd.

Mon. - Sat.: 7 AM - 7 PM; Sun.: 9 AM - 5 PM

1241 Co. Rd 10, Albany • 320-845-4321

Used Farm Machinery For Sale On Our Lot!

• GEO Thermal • Pump & Water Systems • Sales, Service & Parts

Zecol RV Antifreeze $3.49/Gallon

State Licensed • Nationally Certified

Serving You Since 1942

320-836-2597 800-450-2597

MN Lic. #2114

Rodney Atkinson • Freeport

CHRISTMAS

Trees, Swags, Wreaths, Garland

Grey Eagle Just Listed: Spacious Rambler with 3 main floor bedrooms, fireplace, 2 stall garage, partially finished basement, two storage sheds, large wooded triple lot. Only $59,900.

Grey Eagle: Just Listed: Affordable 4 Br 3 bath with

charming brick exterior... just $72,900!

Melrose: Just Listed: Updated 3 Br 2 bath with 4

garage stalls! ... $105,900

Benchmark

Real Estate Services

320-256-8000 www.benchmarkrealty.com

BRUNO’S HUB SUPPER CLUB 320-285-4318 - Long Lake, Burtrum www.brunosmn.com • www.gerardsmn.com

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL! Open 10 AM-Midnight Buffet 10 am-2pm

NOW AVAILABLE!

Photo by Ralph Hinnenkamp.

On The Inside...

M-F: 8-6; Sat.: 8-12

Harvey Mackay Obituaries: Middendorf, Kramer Notes from the Capitol Local Municipality Minutes

Page 2 Page 4 Page 8 Pages 9-10

Burnhamville Township, Melrose City

Drink Specials 6-Close. - No Bar Bingo.

Dinner Specials

VIKINGS HAPPY HOUR

Mon.: Buy 1 Dinner, Get 1 Half Price Tues.: Bourbon & Walleye Combo Mon.-Fri.: 5-6 PM Plus Additional Wed.: Chicken, Ribs & Shrimp Buffet Overtime Happy Hour Fri.: Create Your Own Pasta Bar 7 Nights a • Fish Fry • Prime Rib Week 10-11 PM Sat.: Prime Rib Vikings Game Total Sun.: BRUNCH Points Plus a Dollar!

Evening: 2, 3 or 4 pc. Chicken or Fresh Ground Sirloin Steak with Fried Onions & Mushrooms

Book Your Company, Family, Friends HOLIDAY GATHERING Now! Great Prices, Selections & Room Sizes to Choose From.

SEPTIC SYSTEMS

Building Supplies Grey Eagle

1-800-645-6336 320-285-8085

Now Taking New Listings & Current Listings For Sale!

• Homes • Lakehomes • Hobby Farms • Land • Building Lots • Businesses

From Design to Installation

Basements • Bobcat Work • Waterlines • Dozer Work Sewer Camera • Sewer Line Locator • Track Hoe

Chad Twardowski, Owner Cell: 320-760-1127 • Home: 320-732-3809

Twardowski Excavating, Inc.

Licensed, Bonded, Insured

Call Me Today!

Brandon Kelly, BROKER-REALTOR

320-491-6107 or 320-285-3222 Email: brandon@east-westrealty.com

www.brandonkellymn.com

Equal Housing Opportunity

Looks and Quality Mean Everything

From All of Us at Freeport State Bank!

Freeport 320-836-2126 New Munich 320-837-5297 Melrose 320-256-7208

www.freeportstatebank.com

Freeport State Bank will be CLOSED on Thursday, Nov. 22nd to observe Thanksgiving.

Andersen® Windows

•Energy Efficient •Easy to Operate •Transferable Warranty •Never Blisters or Peels •Whatever you have in mind, we can help you build.

ST. ROSA

LUMBER INC.

Featuring Tilt Wash Double Hung Windows

320-836-2284 • 1-888-276-1751

29033 County Road 17, in St. Rosa

Page 2 • Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012

Hometown News 29442 120th St. Grey Eagle, MN 56336 Phone: 320-285-2323

Website: www.hometownnews.biz Email: htnews@meltel.net www.facebook.com/hometownnews Published By

John and Lori Young

The Hometown News is a weekly publication, which is published and distributed every Thursday.

Ad & News Deadline

The deadline for news and advertising in the Hometown News is 5 P.M. MONDAY.

Sales Staff

• Jan Theisen Cell: 320-333-9774 Email: htnews2@albanytel.com • Lori Young Office: 320-285-2323 Cell: 612-597-2998 Email: htnews@meltel.net Website Hosting - John Young Office: 320-285-2323 Cell: 612-597-4499

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Street smarts put you on the road to success -By Harvey Mackay

You learn how to be book smart in school, but you better not forget that you need to also be street smart.

There’s an old saying about how the “A” students in school end up working for the “B and C” students in life. I’ve always been amused by that notion.

I succeeded because I have street smarts. Here are some street-smart ideas that have worked for me over the years.

If one or two of them work for you that’s terrific.

Idea #1: Take time - whenever possible - to think about important situations that arise before taking any action.

Unexpected problems come up in life. No matter what you are hit with without warning, memorize these six words - I want to think about it. All my life I’ve seen people react instantly to events that took them by surprise, and they opened their mouths and really hurt themselves. So practice: I want to sleep on it! I want to think about it! You won’t be sorry.

Idea #2: Agreements prevent dis-

From

Hours: Tues. - Fri: 11-6; Sat: 9-12

Style ‘n Go 320-285-7780

Grey Eagle

agreements. Whenever you have a meeting of real importance, summarize your understanding with a brief note back to the other party. I guarantee this will save you from a lot of “he said /she said” ...

“I thought you meant” ... or “We never talked about that.” Nail it down before it nails you.

Idea #3: Leaks don’t just come from faucets. Just remember that the walls have ears, or as I now say, the world has ears. Don’t discuss private important business or personal matters where it can be overheard by other parties. Many deals have gone down in elevators.

Smart phones and recording devices are everywhere.

Idea #4: Always let someone else set the table for you. Let other people talk you up. It will carry a lot more weight.

The sound carries further when someone else blows your horn.

Idea #5: Dial up your telephone skills. Never, never just leave your name when you call someone. Always leave the exact timeframe you can be reached to avoid playing telephone tag.

Also, whenever you do reach a customer, client, VIP or key person in your network, immediately ask them, “Is this a good time to talk?” Don’t blow a deal just because of inconsideration. I’ve received calls all my life where I was preoccupied, and the caller had no chance to be successful.

If you have an assistant who takes your calls, you will always make a solid impression if your assistant says that you are expecting their call.

Lastly, and this is a tough one, but try to only take phone calls at a specific time of day. This is a huge time saver. Of course, there will always be VIP exceptions.

Idea #6: Don’t be boring. Don’t be predictable. Don’t be dull. Put some creativity into your life and business. For example, I have various types of letters that I use on a regular basis. I have unique and creative letters of Congratulations and Thank You, and then I always add a personal message to them. I do a report card letter where I list ten or so items and rank each item A+, assuming they deserve it. I’m a big proponent of putting a smile on people’s faces, whether it’s with creative gifts or personal notes.

Idea #7: Check out who is attending events to which I’m invited. I often call the person in charge of an event to try and get a list of attendees and where they will be seated. The cocktail hour is usually not long enough to greet more than 25 percent of the crowd. However, if you have the seating chart, you know the exact table number, plus who’s attending. Then you can zero in on the contacts you want to make. If you can’t get a list in advance, arrive early and check the name tags to see who will be Harvey Mackay continued to pg 3

Upcoming Events

NOVEMBER 21 • Freeport Community Center Chicken Fry from 4:30-7 p.m. at the Freeport Community Center.

NOVEMBER 28 • Grey Eagle Senior Center Pot Luck Supper at 5 p.m.

DECEMBER 1 • Christmas Cookie Care-O-Sell from 8:30 a.m.-noon at the Community Covenant Church, Upsala. See ad on page 3.

• Holy Family School Bar Bingo at 2 p.m., at Albany American Legion.

DECEMBER 2 • Craft & Gift Sale from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Landing, St. Anna. See ad on page 3.

• CUF Matching Grant Breakfast from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Seven Dolors Church, Albany.

DECEMBER 9 • Grey Eagle Community Chorus Annual Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. at the Grey Eagle United Methodist Church.

DECEMBER 14 • Grey Eagle Senior Center Monthly Membership Meeting at 10:30 a.m.

DECEMBER 14 • Grey Eagle Senior Center Annual Christmas Party at 1 p.m.

DECEMBER 18 • Holy Family School Christmas Program at 1:45 p.m. & 6:30 p.m., Albany.

JULY 19-21 • Grey Eagle GEM Fest - Note: Change in Weekend.

ALBANY TOWNSHIP • Meets the fourth Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Albany City Hall.

• Planning Commission meets the second 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 first Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

FREEPORT CITY COUNCIL • Meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.

GREY EAGLE CITY COUNCIL • Meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.

GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP • Meets the first Monday of the month at 8 p.m.

ST. ROSA CITY COUNCIL • Meets the third Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Community Park building.

SWANVILLE CITY COUNCIL • First Tuesday after the first Monday of the month.

SWANVILLE TOWNSHIP • Meets the second 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@meltel.net or call 320-285-2323.

Temperatures Date

11/14 11/15 11/16 11/17 11/18 11/19

High 46 40 40 51 54 54

Low 26 22 17 34 36 30

Friday

Partly sunny.

High: 28 Low: 12

Weekend Weather Saturday

Sunday

Partly sunny.

High: 32 Low: 20

Partly sunny.

High: 28 Low: 14

Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012 • Page 3

Harvey Mackay continued from page 2 there.

Idea #8: Many times in life when you are faced with a difficult situation, you should try and apply this philosophy: If you can afford to buy your way out of a problem, you don’t have a problem.

Idea #9: Call people who have experienced a setback, demotion or personal tragedy. Everyone calls people on the way up, but not so often on the way down. You will always be remembered for your kindness.

Mackay’s Moral: A student of life considers the world a classroom.

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.”

“The Lights of Christmas” Advent Festival Slow down and meditate on the true meaning of this holiday season. Looking for an opportunity to slow down and focus on the deeper meaning of this holiday season? Here’s your chance!

You are cordially invited to attend “The Lights of Christmas,” an Advent Festival that will help you draw closer to the true light of the world, Jesus Christ.

The festival will include a self-guided meditative journey through rooms decorated according to the theme of light.

Various musicians will provide live music throughout the event. Children and adults will have the opportunity to take pictures with animals in a live Nativity Scene, as well as make crafts to bring home and share with family and friends.

Come talk with shepherds who recount how angels announced the birth of our Lord. See the Three Wise Men as they follow the light of the Star. And before you depart, be sure to enjoy a variety of delicious refreshments!

The event will take place from

4-8:00 p.m. on Dec. 1 and from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Dec. 2 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in North Prairie, Minn. Admission is free (donations accepted).

This is a multi-community effort, and one the whole family will enjoy. If you are looking for that chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the season, please join us for, “The Lights of Christmas!”

I S

SK

LUMBER LUMBERYARD

FULL SERVICE

Ph: 320-547-2339 • Fax: 320-547-0085

Stop in for estimates on all your building projects, big or small

2nd. & DeGraff P.O. Box 278 • Swanville

Senior Dining Menus: Nov. 26 - 30 FRI., NOV 30: Cheese seafood Albany penne pasta, broccoli Normandy, sherMON., NOV. 26: Lasagna, green beans, lettuce salad, garlic breadstick, pears.

TUE., NOV. 27: Hamburger, bun, baked beans, coleslaw, raspberry parfait.

WED., NOV. 28: Roast pork, sweet potatoes, steamed cabbage, chocolate mousse.

THUR., NOV. 29: Swedish meatballs, parsley potatoes, trio vegetables, mandarin orange cake.

FRI., NOV 30: Roast chicken, whipped potatoes, gravy, peas, dinner roll, sherbet. ~ The Lighter Side Menu ~ MON., NOV. 26: Chicken spinach salad, breadstick, pears.

TUE., NOV. 27: Sweet/sour pork, rice, mandarin oranges, raspberry parfait.

WED., NOV. 28: Stuffed green pepper, fruit, dinner roll, chocolate mousse.

THUR., NOV. 29: Ham/cheese sub, vegetable soup, fruit sauce, mandarin orange cake.

Craft & Gift Sale

Sunday, Dec. 2 11 AM-3:00 PM The Landing, St. Anna The Landing is located at 18527 County Rd 154, Avon, MN

bet.

* Bread and skim milk served with each meal.

Albany: 320-845-4070

Grey Eagle & Upsala

MON., NOV. 26: Pepper steak, potatoes, corn medley, pudding/topping.

TUE., NOV. 27: BBQ pork, bun, potatoes, 3 bean salad, sherbet.

WED., NOV. 28: Scalloped ham, steamed broccoli, fruited gelatin, banana cake.

THUR., NOV. 29: Spaghetti, meat sauce, garden salad, breadstick, mandarin orange.

FRI., NOV 30: Cook’s choice. * Bread and skim milk served with each meal.

Grey Eagle Dining Site: 320-285-4481 Upsala Dining Site: 320-573-4435

Christmas Cookie Care-O-Sell

Saturday, Dec. 1 • 8:30 a.m.-Noon Community Covenant Church Fellowship Hall, Upsala Enjoy Coffee & a Warm Fresh-Baked Caramel Roll for $2.00!

Christmas Cookies, Breads, Candies, Plus More Seasonal Favorites Sold by the Pound Cookies $8.00/Pound or 50¢ Each Wrapped Gift Trays Available Matching Grant by Thrivent. Proceeds benefit the Wed. Night Community Meal Program & CW Ministries.

Chris’ Country Store 320-285-2600 • Grey Eagle Prices good Nov. 21-Dec. 1 Meat

Featuring Local Products

by New Munich Meats From Our OWN Meat Room:

Chris, Owner

WELCOME TO THE GIFT SHOPPE

-Carol Sanvik: Prairie Pottery Functional Pottery -Heather Olson: Riverside Goat Milk Soap -Tanya Falzone: as a Gift Buyer

Check Out All the Homemade Items

Scarves, Hats, Dish Towels, Baby Quilts & Afghans Featuring Local Consigners: • New Minnesota Calendars by George Hulstrand Jr. • Grey Eagle T-Shirts by Chris • Whimsy Works - Jewelry, Weavings & Framed Poetry by Debra Bellman • Purses by Tina • Handmade Doll Clothing by Rose Bollin • Fresh or Silk Floral Arrangements by Chris • Birch Lake T-Shirts & More!

Tux Rental

Check Out the Tux Website @ Jimsformalwear.com “Build a Tux”

Call Chris at 320-267-1342 or 320-285-2600

Try our Fresh Ground Beef Chuck Lean Always Low Price $3.79 lb.

Ground Pork Reg. or Seasoned.

Chuck Beef Roast, Steaks, Boneless Pork Loin, Pork Loin Roast & More!

Mn Gold Beef Skin on Wieners 20 oz. $6.99 Mn Gold Summer Sausage Sticks 10 oz. $2.89 Dairy Cass Clay White Milk 1 gal. $3.99 (Save $1.00) Cass Clay Chocolate Milk 1 gal. $4.49 Cass Clay Swiss Chocolate Milk ½ gal. $2.49 Cass Clay Cottage Cheese 22 oz. $3.29 Cass Clay 1/2 & 1/2 pt. $1.39 Cass Clay Party Dip 12 oz. $1.99 Cass Clay Sour Cream 16 oz. $2.09

Produce

XL Seedless Grapes $1.99 lb.

Braeburn Apples 95¢ lb.

Celery 99¢ Dole Cole Slaw 14 oz. 95¢ Hamburger Onions 5 lb. $2.49 Dole Idaho Russet Potatoes 5 lb. $1.49 Grocery Dole Pineapple 20 oz. $1.79 Our Family Tuna in Water WIC 5 oz. 2/$1.79 Gedney Burger Chip Pickles 32 oz. $2.99 Kettle Creek Assorted Chips 10-12 oz. $1.99 Stove Top Stuffing Chicken 6 oz. $1.99 Canoe Canned Wild Rice 15 oz. $2.69 Creamette Egg Noodles 16 oz. $2.39 Bush Beans Kidney, Black, Northern 16 oz. 99¢ Shurfine Diced Tomato WIC 14.5 oz. 89¢ Frozen Cass Clay Ice Cream All Flavors 1/2 gal. $3.49 Old Orchard 100% Cranberry Juice 12 oz. $1.49 Cole Garlic Bread Stick 10.5 $2.69

Hours: Mon.-Sat.: 8 am.-5:30 pm.

Sun.: 8 am-12 Noon

We accept Visa/MasterCard, EBT Card, WIC

Join our Java Coffee Club

Buy 5 Cups of Coffee for 79¢ Get the 6th Cup “FREE”

Pillsbury Crescent Rolls 8 oz. $2.49 Household Finish Powered Dishwasher Detergent 50 oz. $3.39 Shurfine 30 gal. Garbage Bags 10 ct. $1.69 Shurfine Sandwich Bags Snap Seal 50 ct. $1.39 Frequent Shopper Card

Get Your Card Today & Start Stamping!

Get a Stamp for each $5 spent!

When the card is full, redeem for the items below.

Filled Cards are put in a monthly drawing for the Frequent Shopper Winner who receives a $20 Certificate to our store!

Frequent Shopper Items • Cass Clay Swiss Chocolate Milk 1/2 gal. $1.99 w/a filled card • Cass Clay Ice Cream All Flavors 1/2 gal. $2.99 w/a filled card

November Winner Beth Gessell

Page 4 • Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012

George W. Kramer

Obituaries Victoria A. “Vicki” Middendorf

she was a member of the Fireman Auxiliary and worked as an EMT. She was also a member of the Legion of Mary and the Red Hats.

Survivors include her husband, Edward “Eddie” Middendorf of Melrose; children, Jackie (Joe) Tschida of Melrose, Patty (Tim) Welle of Maple Grove, Joan (Rich) Serafin of Northeast Minneapolis, and John Schmidt (Rick Long) of Minneapolis; step-children, Deb (Keith) Miner of Circle Pines, Terry Middendorf of Rosemount, and Sheila (Robin) Handy of Medina; grandchildren, Blake, Drew and Michaela Welle, Brandon, Eric and Haley Tschida, and Coltrane and Oliver Jack Serafin; first great-grandchild due in April; step-grandchildren, Brooke and Nikki Middendorf, and Kelly and Samantha Miner; brother, Jimmy (Bobi) Wilbur of Mankato; sister, Susie Goodell of Cleveland, MN; and nieces and nephews.

Vicki was preceded in death by her parents, David and Virginia Wilbur.

Serving as casket bearers were Blake Welle, Brandon Tschida, Drew Welle, Eric Tschida, Michaela Welle, and Haley Tschida. Cross bearer was Morgan Tschida. Lectors were Morghan Ronning and Michaela Welle. Honorary bearers were her Red Hat friends, Judy Evans, Donna Dufner, Marcie Welle, Pat Loxtercamp, Gloria Schneider and Hortense Walz.

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

Victoria A. “Vicki” Middendorf, age 68 of Melrose, died peacefully surrounded by her loving family, after a six year illness on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 at her home in Melrose, Minnesota.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, November 17 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating and Deacon Stephen Arnold assisting.

Interment was in the parish cemetery.

Victoria Ann Wilbur was born March 26, 1944 in Mankato, Minnesota to David and Virginia (Martinson) Wilbur. She married Dan Schmidt on July 18, 1964 in Mankato. She worked at Jennie-O Foods, Melrose Beacon and Schmidt Printing in Melrose; retiring at the age of 62. After retirement, she continued working part-time at Schmidt Printing.

On July 10, 1990 she married Edward Middendorf in Melrose. She enjoyed painting, drawing, quilting, crocheting, knitting, gardening, camping, biking, making rosaries, playing piano and watching the Sci-Fi Channel.

Vicki was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose where she served as a Eucharistic Minister and taught religion classes. In earlier years,

Grey Eagle Senior Center November Pot Luck Bingo Party

The Grey Eagle Senior Center is planning a “November Pot Luck/Bingo Party” for Wednesday evening, November 28th, at 5:00 p.m. Everyone who is 55 years of age or older are invited to attend. Please bring a “dish to share”.

Following the meal, we will play “Buck a Card” bingo. Please come, bring a friend, and join in the fun and fellowship.

BLACK FRIDAY

Wednesday, Nov. 21: Broasted Chicken Buffet $7.00 Thursday - Thanksgiving Day Closed

ALL STARS SPORTS BAR & GRILL St. Rosa • 320-836-2154

Happy Hour

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose and the Knights of Columbus Council #1633.

He enjoyed playing cards, listening to music, dancing, and traveling.

Survivors include his children, Patricia (Tim) Flanigan of New York Mills, Joan (Wayne) Stich of Albany, Mark Kramer of Rosemount, Donna (Dave) Goebel of St. Rosa, Ruth Kramer of St. Cloud, Kathy (John) Wirtz of Detroit Lakes, Robert (Edna) Kramer of Melrose and Dan (Lesa) Kramer of Sartell; daughter-in-law, Kathy Kramer of Albany; 26 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

George was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Loretta Kramer on Sept.

18, 1978; sons, William and Joe Kramer; and sisters, Irene Kramer and Marie Marthaler.

Serving as casket bearers will be Todd Stich, Derek Kramer, Drew Kramer, Collin Kramer, Kurt Goebel and Brandon Kramer. Cross bearer will be Karen Toenies and scripture bearer will be Tyler Wirtz.

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

George W. Kramer, age 87 of Melrose, died Thursday, November 15, 2012 at the Albany Area Hospital in Albany, Minnesota.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 21 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

Friends may call from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose.

George William Kramer was born June 18, 1925 in Melrose Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to John and Bernadine (Ahrens) Kramer. On June 2, 1953 he married Loretta Schneider at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove. The couple farmed west of Melrose. George retired in 1987 and continued helping his son on the family farm.

Holdingford Holiday Events Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: Friday, November 30 at 6:30 p.m. in the Triangle Park, Main Street. Goodies and hot chocolate. Sponsored by the Garden Club.

Holdingford Area Holiday Home Tour: Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1 and Dec. 2, 1-4:00 p.m. Tour four homes in the Holdingford/Opole area decorated for Christmas by their owners. Enjoy the different styles of homes, decorations and holiday refreshments. Also visit Elmer’s Barber Shop, a part of Main Street Holdingford’s history.

Holiday Bake Sale, Nativity Set Display, Decorated Christmas Trees Silent Auction: Saturday, Dec. 1 from 1- 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 2 from Noon-4 p.m. at the Community Country Church, (across from the Holdingford School).

Holdingford Santa Breakfast: Sunday, Dec. 2, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. for all ages at Holdingford City Hall. Come meet Santa!

Holiday Craft Sale: Sunday, Dec. 2, 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., at “The Landing” on County Road 154, near St. Anna.

Dingmann’s Locker

320-573-FOOD

Custom Processing On the Farm Butchering Upsala, MN: 320-573-2162

Restaurant and Bar Upsala, MN

10 AM-2 PM

$

Buy a Gift Certificate of 20 or More & Receive a FREE Drink!

Good Friday, Nov. 23rd Only

Saturday, Nov. 24

Big T

Drink of the Month: Russian Standard Vodka $3

Thanksgiving Day Brunch

Central Lakes Landscape & Construction Ken Frieler

Serving 9 AM-2 PM

15% OFF For Seniors Bar will be OPEN!

Tuesday: Cafe 4-9 PM/Bar 4-10 PM Wing Night - 1 Pound for $4.99 Wednesday: Cafe 4-9 PM/Bar 4-10 PM Broasted Chicken - All You Can Eat

320-285-5715 Grey Eagle

Patios, Decks, Retainer Walls, Ceramic Tiling, Remodeling

• Thanksgiving Day Buffet •

Serving from 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Family Restaurant

STUBBY’S TAVERN 1 Block off I-94 Albany Exit 1004 Shamrock Lane • Albany

320-845-2168 Book your Christmas Party.

Three Private Meeting Rooms

Available Handling Groups of 20-150

Call for Info & Reservations.

Enjoy our Traditional Turkey Dinner Turkey, Dressing & All The Trimmings Plus Dessert!

r Make You ing Thanksgiv ions Reservat

On/Off Sale • 320-547-2120 • Swanville, MN

Mon. - Fri.: 10 am - 2 am; Sat.: 9 am - 2 am; Sun.:11 am - 2 am

Happy Thanksgiving Open Thanksgiving Day at 3 PM Live Music 9 PM - 1 AM

Adults: $9.50

(includes tax & Beverage)

Children 8 & under: $4.75

2 and under Free Reservations strongly recommended for groups of 10 or more

Thanksgiving Day Restaurant Closing at 3 pm.

Stubby's Tavern Closing at 8 pm.

Happy Hour: Mon. - Fri.: 5 - 7 pm Wednesday’s: “Happy Hour Pulltabs” Thursday’s: Happy Hour Free Prize Drawing

Join Us For Viking’s Football!

• Free food at half-time • Drink specials during every game • 2 for one’s: An hour before every Vikings game • Register to win a 55” flatscreen tv

Nov. 21: Soundstorm Nov. 23: All Around Sound DJ Nov. 24: Whiskey Tango Dec. 1: Switch

Dine-in Only

Evening Specials

Daily Lunch

Specials Monday's: $4.95 Taco Bar Tuesday’s: $1.50 Burger Night Wednesday’s: $7.95 Chicken Buffet Thursday’s: $5.45 Drummie Basket w/ toast & Fries Friday’s: $6.45 21 Shrimp Basket w/ toast & Fries

Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012 • Page 5

Bitz and Piecez -By Pastor Micheal Bitz

Revelation 7: 9-10 gives us a glimpse of the heavenly throne room, a quick peek at some key realities concerning God. This glance into heaven reveals to us that there was a great multitude that no one could number, from every tribe and nation, gathered around God and the Lamb.

Growing up in central Minnesota you didn’t have to be on the A honor roll to figure out that we did not have much ethnic diversity. In college I had roommates from Africa and had classmates from all over the country. In St. Louis, MO I learned even more what it was like to live in a different part of the country with different kinds of people.

In all my studies and travels I have become aware that even in America we have different tribes and nations. We may speak the same language but we are divided along ethnic, age, political, and even religious lines. Our natural tendency is to divide into homogeneous groups.

In a sort of self-selected segregation we find ourselves among people just like us.

The sad thing is that Churches cater to this attitude and have contemporary services for the young people, traditional services for the older people, cat services for the cat people and dog services for the dog people and they emphasize that if you don’t fit in here you are free to find a church with people just like you.

In heaven this is not the picture we get. In heaven we see people from every tribe and nation gathering together to worship God and the Lamb. Under God’s reign our differences don’t matter. God has sent His saving grace to all nations and those who believe in Jesus

will be saved. God draws people from every different area of life into His presence. Yet our sinful nature tends to draw people together who are just like us.

In our romantic relationships we think having the same interests and hobbies makes a perfect couple but it doesn’t. It is the differences between men and women and each individual in a marriage that actually makes two people stronger together than two people on their own.

The same idea applies to the church.

Our sinful nature would like it more if everyone else was just like us because working together with like-minded people is actually easier than working with people who are different than us. Yet it is those differences that make the people of God stronger and better able to accomplish the difficult task we have been given of bringing the Gospel to all people. It takes work on our part to cooperate and figure out plans with someone who thinks differently than us or even to agree on what needs to be done.

The reality is that Jesus came to die for all people. His disciples carried the news of his resurrection to all the nations and we do the same when we refuse to give into our natural desires and refuse to surround ourselves with only people who are just like us. Jesus is the Savior of a multi-national church and that is the picture we get from the heavenly throne room today. All different types of people calling out with a load voice saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” Amen.

This is a summary of the sermon delivered on November 4th, 2012 at Immanuel Lutheran Church (LCMS) in Walker by Pastor Bitz who grew up in Grey Eagle and graduated from Long Prairie/Grey Eagle High School. A video recording of the whole sermon can be requested by Calling Immanuel at 218547-1330.

The Swanville Kindergartners are Thankful for: Abby Morris - baby brother Zachariah Johnson - kitty and my Dad Zach Gapinski - state trooper Nicholas Graves - Mom and cat Malachi Landowski - Dad Ethan Wimmer - train and kitty Alex Thoma - cat and Mom LillyAnn Gutzkow - dog Caden Beseman - fish Dylan Rahn - sister Hunter Moore - dog and pet bird Emma Kurowski - duck and rabbit Brandon Winbauer - Dad Kaleb Hollermann - Dad Josie Larum - sister Chloe Tepley - Lydia Kaylie Blake - mom, dad, grandma, great-grandma.

Niki Cichon - family.

Britton Glessing - grandpa, mom, dad, and the good day I am having.

Trevor Hanson - movie theaters and going to birthday parties.

Lakiesha Kuhl - teacher and the vet that takes care of cats.

Eric Landowski -cat and cows.

Jeremiah Monson - everybody.

Sahara Muellner - Barbies.

Wesly Pearcy - mom and dad.

Lily Peterson - helping people when they are sick.

Aliceona Rocheleau - teacher, Mrs. Waltman.

Trent Roden. - baby cat.

Kacie Wunderlich - helping people.

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‘God Shed His Grace On Thee’

By Sheila Ripplinger America was founded on godly principles; the Holy Bible was the sure foundation of our forefathers as they searched for freedom. Many of us have a ‘faith heritage’ rooted deep within our families. We may even have a cherished family Bible put away somewhere for safe keeping. We live in a country where we still have the freedom to read it without persecution, thanks to those forefathers that fought for that very right.

Thanksgiving is a perfect time to open up that Good Book and search for the treasures that are on each page.

Although our faith heritage can be helpful, we can not and should not rely on our denomination or religious titles to be a ticket into true eternal freedom.

What does it really mean that ‘God Shed His Grace On Thee’? ‘Grace’ is unmerited favor toward mankind. It is a gift from God. Jesus spoke boldly when He addressed the religious leaders of His day

Being Thankful

By Jan Klug Today we are so thankful that our special home is warm. That there’s food on our table, That our body’s kept from harm. That our kids were given life, That our grand kids are here, too.

That our friends keep on smiling.

That good fortune befalls you.

That we’ve elected leaders, That they strive to do what’s right. That we have brave soldiers, That they guard us day and night. That we can salute our flag, That America is free.

That someone we know loves us, That no better can that be!

That welcome rain did come. That the grass is again green. That the fieldwork nearing done, That abundant crops were seen.

That darkness comes each evening, That sunshine brightens the day.

That good health envelopes us, That deep sleep paves the way. That we’re blessed as family, That we all can gather here.

That we can in our own heart, Thank Him for all that is dear.

in John 8, “If you hold on to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free. If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” They, of all people, should have recognized Jesus as the Son of God, but instead were determined to kill Him. Do you recognize Jesus and the ‘Saving Grace’ He offers? Or do you stand among the many unbelievers and mockers of this world who deny Him? America, “O Beautiful For Spacious Skies,” is becoming increasingly evil, just as the Bible said that it would in Matthew 24. The recent hurricanes, wars, earthquakes, floods, etc. that we continue to witness around the world as the worst in recorded history, can be taken as warnings and signs to draw us closer to God’s amazing Grace that sets us free. We can choose to listen or choose to ignore; the choice is ours.

We do not know if we have tomorrow; but we do with certainty have today. We are living in a Beautiful Landand God’s Grace is still being Shed on Thee!

Jonah 2: 8&9: Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the Grace that could be theirs. But I, with a song of Thanksgiving, will sacrifice to you.

Salvation comes from the LORD!

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Plan to stay and enjoy free admission to the boys’ basketball games when the Upsala Cardinals host Long Prairie at 6:15 p.m.

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Page 6 • Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012

Community Snapshots

EMAIL US YOUR PHOTOS! • htnews@meltel.net

Looks like water, but frozen. Submitted by Jim Jackson.

Swanville Sr. High Student of the Month Swanville Junior/Senior High School is proud to announce Grant Allen as the November Student of the Month for 10-12th grades. Grant is the son of Kelly and Bryan Allen.

Grant has played football since seventh grade, is currently a member of the Super Mileage Team and also participated in this class last year. He was on the yearbook staff as a junior. Grant enjoys football, hunting and fishing, and spending time with family and friends. His advice for fellow classmates is “Work hard and have fun, the four years go by quick.”

Grant’s future plans to attend college focusing on a business major.

Gerry Bahe, Industrial Arts teacher states, “Having Grant in a number of my classes over the last two years he has shown me his leadership qualities from the classroom setting to public speaking representing class projects. Grant has taken a lead roll in bringing our Super Mileage team together in the design phase on CAD, contacting donors and writing documents.

I can designate an assignment with complete confidence that it will be completed on time and with detail. With that said, I would like to say that Grant is a good representative for student of the month.”

Tom Bzdok, Social Studies teacher adds, “Grant has been a student in my classes many times over the years. During that time he has always displayed a friendly personality and a positive attitude. He is very personable with fellow students as well as adults. Grant has always been a very respectful and mature student who adds a lot of positive energy to the classroom. He has always displayed an interest in history and contributes his thoughts and is respectful of classmate’s opinions. Grant is the type of person who always puts a smile on everyone’s face. Congratulations on this award Grant, you deserve it!”

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Upsala AAA award winners Congratulations to Aimee Pelzer (left) and Matt Abler (right) for being selected as Upsala’s AAA award winners. AAA stands for Art, Athletics and Academics. These two individuals were selected by the staff at Upsala Area School. They will compete in the Region 5A banquet in January held at the St. Cloud convention center.

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Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012 • Page 7

Swanville Jr. High Student of the Month

Swanville Junior/Senior High School is proud to announce Freshman Ethan Och as the November Student of the Month for 7-9th grades. Stephanie and James Och are his parents.

Ethan has been a band participant since fifth grade, joined speech as an eighth grade student and plans to participate this winter again. He also was part of the Summer Marching band program this past summer. Ethan has helped design the model for the Super Mileage Car Project for the school’s Industrial Tech Program. Outside of school Ethan enjoys video games, 3D Modeling, computer programming and making cards. Ethan is no stranger to high achievement. He was the sixth grade Morrison County Essay winner in 2010, a previous Student of the Month as a seventh grader, the English Student of the year in seventh grade and the Art, Math and Technology Student of the year as an eighth grader. His future plans are to go to college to major in computer science. His advice for other students is to “Be sure to finish homework assigned to you soon after you receive it, because then you have more time to do what you want to do.”

Margaret Peterson, Math teacher comments, “I am extremely excited to have Ethan Och representing our school as student of the month. He is always in a good mood and brightens up my day when he enters my classroom. His work ethic cannot be surpassed by anybody. As a math teacher, I try to get everyone to show all of his or her work and he always gets it right. His math ability and problem solving skills are ahead of his age. I am excited to see how much I can teach Ethan in the coming school year. Ethan has worked hard to be an active member of band and has worked hard to be a active member of our student body.”

“Ethan is a wonderful student to have in class,” adds Tom Bzdok Social Studies teacher. “He always has a smile on his face no matter what the situation. He always has a positive attitude no matter what difficulties he faces. He makes it a point to greet you in a friendly manner as he comes into class. Academically Ethan always puts his best effort forward on every assignment or activity. He sets very high standards for himself, and works hard to achieve them. Ethan will enjoy success in whatever he pursues in life because of his tremendous study habits and high expectations. Congratulations Ethan!”

Minnesota Through The Lens:

To submit a nature photo for Minnesota Through The Lens, email it in it’s original (large) size to htnews@meltel.net.

Things to do to liven up Thanksgiving Dinner

1. Load your plate up high, then take it to the kitchen, toss it all in the blender, and take your “shake” back to the table.

Announce that it’s the new Thanksgiving Weight Loss Shake.

2. When everyone goes around to say what they are thankful for, say, “I’m

Upsala High School 2012-2013 First Quarter Honor Roll A Honor Roll Grade 12: Matthew Abeler, Brock Cichon, Nick Frieler, Rachel Kulla, Andrew Nelson, Kaylin Osberg, Aimee Pelzer, Rebecca Scepaniak, Avery Smieja, Meredith Swanson, Sadie Welinski, Nathaniel Wuebkers, Alissa Zehrer.

Grade 11: Ruthie Flaa, Alison Gerads, Savanna Johnson, Mitchell Lange, Josiah Lojovich, Shawn Pohlmann, Katie Ripplinger, Rachel Schlumpberger, Jennifer Wuebkers, Dylan Zimmerman.

Grade 10: Shanna Brenhaug, Lacey Brezinka, Danica Cheney, Tara Christian, Margaux Douvier, Jeffrey Halverson, Jeremy Halverson, Alyssa Kulla, Abby Maciej, Aaron Peterson, Aaron Ripplinger, Audrey Schleper, Brooke Westrich.

Grade 9: McKenzie Barth, Kendra Lange, Kyle Lange, Kiley Smieja, Justin Wensmann.

Grade 8: Parker Barth, Ben Bloni-

God Bless You & Your Family!

Happy Thanksgiving from

gen, Samantha Blonigen, Dylan Graves, Noelle Kedrowski, Eric Koetter, Jolene Kremers, Rachel Prom, Mia Roerick, Joshua Schlumpberger, Lane Soltis, Cody Stoermann, Darius Westrich.

Grade 7: Ashley Biniek, Cheslee McDermond, Stefani Pohlmann, Adam Ripplinger, Erika Stenvik, Bennett Westrich, Danica Westrich.

B Honor Roll Grade 12: Ashley Clear, Eric Frieler, Alec Griffith, Brianna Lange, Raina Lojovich, Rayann Loken, Kimberly Mayer, MaKenna Peterson, Cory Wensmann, Garrett Wolf.

Grade 11: Nathan Ehrenberg, Erik Kiley, Christian Pekarek, Isaiah Pundsack, Leo Serna, Kaelin Smieja, Adam Swanson.

Grade 10: Derek Bartkowitz, Marie Blonigen, Jessie Evoniuk, Christopher George, Aidan Guthrie, Renee Hebig, Sara Herzog, Mariah Prokott, Paul Rip-

Submitted by Michael Pangrac

plinger, Kyle Soltis, Anne Vos, Dylan Wudinich, Kristin Wuebkers, Matthew Young, Elaina Youngbauer.

Grade 9: Justin Cichon, Michael DeZurik, Chase Douvier, Kailee Janssen, Andrew Kulla, Ethan McCoy, Natalie Strassburg, Samantha VanWienen, Dunkin Westrich.

Grade 8: Bethany Boeckermann, Anna Bruder, Mathew Cavegn, Nicole Edin, Alexandra Kludt, Kasandra Kuhl, Natalie Payne, Armando Perales, Cody Rahn, Andrew Ripplinger, Mariah Schumer, Bethany Snedker, Katlin Welinski, Michael Welinski.

Grade 7: Gabriel Douvier, Matt Herzog, Ester Rica Jerez, Rhiana Mayer, Samantha Thieschafer, Hayley Townsend, Lori Vornbrock, Anna Woidyla.

thankful I didn’t get caught,” and refuse to say anything more 3. Bring along old recorded football games, pop them in the VCR when Dad’s not looking. Make sure it is set to the last two minutes of the game. When he comes into the room, turn off the VCR and turn on the regular TV. 4. Bring a date that only talks about the tragic and abusive conditions known to exist at turkey farms.

5. During mid-meal turn to mom and say, “See mom, I told you they wouldn’t notice that the turkey was past the expiration date. You were worried for nothing.”

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Page 8 • Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012

Notes from the Capitol By State Rep. Paul Anderson

Gov. Dayton certainly created a great deal of publicity last week with his letter to the Minnesota Vikings concerning the possibility of stadium licenses for individual seats in the new stadium.

What was most interesting about the letter was the governor’s apparent surprise about the team possibly using the licenses to generate revenue to help cover their portion of construction costs. I was part of the working group that put the framework of the stadium bill together, and those stadium licenses were part of the discussion from the start and shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone. Dollar amounts were not mentioned in those negotiations, and it’s certainly my hope that if the team chooses to issue those licenses, which amount to a one-time surcharge on premium seat loUpsala, MN

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cations, they would be much more modestly priced than the figures being tossed around in the media.

One of the conferences I try to attend each year is the annual meeting of the Minnesota Agri-Growth Council.

This year’s confab was held at the Minneapolis Convention Center Nov. 13 and the speakers on the agenda were once again outstanding. Dr. Michael Swanson, chief economist for Wells Fargo, gave his annual assessment of the nation’s economy from an agricultural perspective. He told those in attendance that when one is contemplating a purchase of high-priced land, the number of bushels that can be produced on that ground should be the prime driver in the decision. He said that certain improvements, such as irrigation or tile drainage, have not increased in price as much as land itself, and that a farmer may be better off spending money to improve the land he already owns rather than purchasing additional land. It all comes down to producing the most bushels of a commodity at the lowest possible cost.

Dr. Swanson discussed the possibil-

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Thought for the week:

Thanksgiving is a time when the world gets to see just how blessed and how workable the Christian system is. The emphasis is not on giving or buying, but on being thankful and expressing that appreciation to God and to one another.

-John Clayton

ity of American becoming self-sufficient in energy production. We are now producing 6.5 million barrels of oil a day, mainly because of a 15 percent increase in North Dakota. He talked about the price relationship between oil and natural gas, which should be at a ratio of 6:1 because a barrel of oil contains about six times more BTU’s than one unit of natural gas. Today, however, with a glut of natural gas on the market, that price ratio is not in balance.

In conclusion, Dr. Swanson said that high commodity prices incent production, especially in other countries that have more potential to improve farming practices and bring new land into production. There is a global response, he said, that will lead to increased production. He does see a brighter future for livestock producers, who have lately seen their margins compressed by the high price of corn.

Another speaker discussed the recently-defeated proposition in California, known as Prop 37, which would have required the labeling of genetically modified foods. Brandon Castillo, who works for a public relation firm that lobbied against the proposal, said his group focused on flaws in the legislation, which he said was “poorly drafted and written.”

The bill contained numerous exemptions, such as food eaten away from home, and it would have made California an island in terms of packaging and labeling. Approximately 160 organizations were united in their opposition to the bill, and more than $40 million was spent to defeat it.

Proponents of the California food labeling bill tried to frame it as “your right to know.” However, according to Castillo, their real intent is an outright ban on genetically engineered food.

Rep. Anderson can be contacted by email at rep.paul.anderson@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-4317. To receive email updates sign-up on his webpage at www.house.mn/13a.

When four-year-old Sammy awoke after surgery, the nurse explained that it would be necessary for him to be fed intravenously for the next few days.

After assuring him that everything would be fine, she began the process to administer the glucose. Always in the habit of giving thanks before each meal, Sammy asked in a brave and cheerful voice, “Aren’t you going to give thanks?”

It is not easy to give thanks in painful situations. Nor is it natural to see God’s goodness in all of life’s trials and troubles. But the Apostle Paul reminds us to “Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

When we give thanks, we acknowledge our confidence in the Lord, knowing that He cares for us. When we give thanks, we express our closeness to God, realizing that He is with us in every situation. When we give thanks, we declare that we are willing to accept the counsel of God knowing that His will is being done.

Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012 • Page 9

Local Municipality Minutes Burnhamville Township October 30, 2012 The regular meeting of the Town Board of Burnhamville Township was held October 30, 2012 at the Burtrum Community Center. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by chair Mike Berscheit. Members present include Supervisors: Mike Berscheit, Bruce Johnson, and Louis Thompson; Clerk Shirley Hulinsky; and Treasurer Pam Throener. Others present: Julie Lambrecht, Nathan Lambrecht and Erv Herdering.

Sup. Johnson made a motion to approve the minutes of the regular meeting September 25, 2012. Motion seconded by Sup. Thompson.

Motion passed.

Correspondence included notification of a fire call in our township, a hearing on the Swanville City land annexation, planning and zoning notices and a request from a group to view old township records.

The planning and zoning notice included a few items that affected our township. A board member should attend to show support for items beneficial to our residents.

Motion was made by Sup. Berscheit to pay all bills numbered 4707 through 4714: Rev. $635.49, R&B $9,500.40. Sup. Johnson seconded the motion. Motion passed.

In the road report the patch mix is unavailable from the county.

They are waiting on the supplier from Wadena. When mix is available 184th St will be patched.

Explorer Drive spray seems to be working fine. Contractor will trim ditch by Lady Lake soon. The snow plowing contract bid from Herdering, Inc. was accepted on a motion

by Sup. Berscheit and a second by Sup. Thompson. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s report showed a balance of $142,311.82 before tonight’s bills. Treasurer’s report accepted on a motion by Sup. Johnson and seconded by Sup. Berscheit.

Motion passed.

Motion was made by Sup. Thompson to adjourn the meeting which was seconded by Sup. Berscheit. Motion passed. The meeting adjourned at 7:43 p.m. Next regular meeting will be on November 27, 2012 at 7 p.m. in the Burtrum Community Center.

These are unofficial minutes.

Shirley Hulinsky, Clerk Melrose City October 18, 2012 The Melrose City Council met in a Regular Meeting on Thursday, October 18, 2012 at 6:50 p.m. at the Melrose City Center pursuant to due notice being given thereof.

Present were Council Members Joe Finken, Jenny Mayers, Tony Klasen, Dick Christenson, Mayor Tim Vogel, City Administrator/ Treasurer Michael Brethorst, and City Clerk Patti Haase. Mayor Vogel presided thereat. Also in attendance were several American Government students from the Melrose Area Public High School. The Council then recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

A motion was made by Ms. Mayers, seconded by Mr. Klasen and unanimously carried to approve the agenda as amended.

Jonathan Neitfeld, Manager of Meadowlark Country Club, stated that he has three areas of concern regarding the issue of the Melrose Police Department reverting back to a four-officer force: • Safety of Employees; • Safety of Property; • Personal Safety.

Dr. Ernie Hedglin, a former City Council Member and current business owner, noted that he was concerned that the Council is using

the Police Department as a way to balance the budget. Dr. Heglin was also concerned about the City’s ability to retain Police Officers and the affect it would have on their family life if there were to be a reduction in Police Officer staffing.

Bunker Hill, former Police Chief of Melrose and current resident, commented that every resident benefits from having five Police Officers in the City and the safety they provide. Mr. Hill said where he works (Stearns County), they are seeing an upward trend in crime.

Andrew Wirtz, recently moved to Melrose, noticed less Police presence and believes that if residents notice less presence, so will the criminals. Mr. Wirtz stated that we need to keep our Police Officers as they are vital to the community.

Dave Rodahl, resident of Melrose, expressed his concerns about the revolving door effect, officer turnover will increase.

Sharon Blaskowski, resident of Melrose, noted that the City is growing and the need of police staffing due to increase in population, businesses and healthcare.

Safety and continuity is important, law and order is most necessary otherwise chaos prevails. They are here to protect and serve.

Pat Brannan, moved to Melrose last September, and noted public safety is very important to their family and is concerned in staff reduction. Mr. Brannan believes it is important for long term growth – public safety was one of the reasons his family moved to Melrose.

The following items were considered for approval under the Consent Agenda: a. The minutes from Council’s August 30 Special Meeting, the September 13 Special Joint Meeting with the Melrose Public Utilities Commission and the September 13 Regular Meeting. b. list of bills in the amount of $202,747.16. c. list of investments for the month of September. d. Tri-County Action Program 2013 Transportation Contract.

There is no change to the language of the contract, the only change being the dates. This is a renewal of the existing contract. e. Donation Resolution No. 2012-50, donation from Freeport State Bank, Bueckers Recycling Services/Erv & Bertha Bueckers, Montessori School of Melrose, Melrose VFW Auxiliary, and Wif Finken & Bernette Petermeier Finken towards the Tri-Cap bus service. f. Resolution No. 2012-51, Resolution Calling Hearing on Delinquent Accounts. g. The Council to give consideration to approving the City Administrator to enter into a contract with the St. Cloud Technical College for the EMT Refresher Course.

The training will be taken by members of the Melrose Ambulance Department. The cost of the program is $4,425 for the first 15 members with an additional $295 per person. The total cost of the course is $5,310. It is anticipated the City will receive approximately $5,000 from the EMSRB for reimbursement of this training. h. Resolution No. 2012-52, Resolution Approving Gambling License to Midwest Outdoors Unlimited Wobegon Partners for an exemption from lawful gambling license to hold a raffle and to sell pulltabs on December 1, 2012 at the Melrose Legion Club, 265 County Road 173 SE. i. Past Ambulance Department Member Tina Schmidt has requested to be reappointed to serve as an

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EMT for the Melrose Ambulance Department. Ms. Schmidt served on the Department from December 14, 2006 – April 21, 2011. Her EMT license is still current; however, expires in January. She would need to take the EMT Refresher course in January along with the rest of the Department Members. Cost of the course is $295 per person. According to membership requirements as spelled out in the Ambulance Department Policies and Procedures, the City shall pay for the cost of the EMT Refresher course every two years only if members take a minimum 36 hours of standby, or run time, or a combination of both, per month each year for the two-year time period preceding the course.

Because Ms. Schmidt has not served on the Department for over a year and has not met the minimum requirements but does has five years prior service, staff is recommending that the cost of the course be split 50/50 between the City and Ms. Schmidt. Cost of the course is $295. After serving on the Department for one year and meeting all the requirements as spelled out in policy, Ms. Schmidt would be reimbursed for her half of the initial payment. Ms. Schmidt will supply a copy of her physical and immunization records through her current employer; therefore, there would be no cost to the City for these services.

The Council to take action approving Ms. Schmidt’s re-appointment to the Department and to approve partial payment of the costs of the EMT Refresher now in the amount of $147.50 and to reimburse Ms. Schmidt the other half in the amount of $147.50 after one year of service and meeting all policy requirements.

The following Ambulance Department uncollectible accounts have been submitted to collections or Revenue Recapture (RR): Darlene Bussmann, Charged Off, $15.00; Irene Czech, Charged Off, $948.00; Jesse Lovelace, Charged Off, $1,332.00; Adam Klinkhammer, RR, $748.80; Dorothy O’Roark, RR,; Michael Brooks, RR, $2,005.20; Leopoldo Martinez, RR, $150.00; Patrick Cebulla, Collection, $816.00; Edwin Scherping, Charged Off, $19.57; David Northwest, RR, $185.15; Shirley Peterson, RR, $100.00; Jessie Borst, RR, $729.60; Joseph Odegard, Collections, $622.80; Kylee Williams, Collections, $1,309.20; Amanda Stafford, RR, $622.80. Total: $11,069.32.

The following is a list of Fire Department accounts that have been submitted to Revenue Recapture or collections and are recommended to be charged off: Steven Vross, RR, $125.00; Philip Brinegar, RR, $400.00; Amanda Stafford, RR, $400.00; Denise Burgau, RR, $125.00; Hersi Aden, RR, $400.00; Javier Acevedo, Collections, $125.00; Nathan Klaphake, Collections, $200.00. Total: $1,775.00.

A motion was made by Mr. Christenson, seconded by Mr. Finken to approve the consent agenda as submitted.

Police Chief John Jensen presented the Police Department’s September report. He noted that a total of 14 citations were issued in the month of September. There were 67 verbal warnings and two written warnings. Chief Jensen stated there were 231 calls for service during this month compared to 216 for September of 2012. The year-todate number of calls is 2,077 compared to 2,443 in 2011.

City Attorney Dymoke re-

ported that during the period from September 6 through October 11, he has spent time reviewing pleadings and title examiners report filed in Rose Park Torren’s action, confirmed that the Torren’s action will not adversely affect Melrose’s property interests, advised the City Administrator that it was not necessary for Melrose to appear in the Torren’s action, advised attorney for Rose Park that Melrose was not opposing the Torren’s action, reviewed title work for Lions/Jaycee Park property, and advised the City Administrator that Melrose’s title to the park was not subject to use restrictions.

Director Walz reported on the Planning and Zoning Commission’s October 11 meeting. He noted that a significant amount of time was spent reviewing the preliminary draft of the Zoning Ordinance Update project. Accessory building standards, swimming pool fencing or covers, and signage are areas that are still being worked through.

At the Melrose Public Utilities Commission request, Director Harren presented the utility rate comparisons. The Melrose’s rates include funding of anticipated capital improvement projects. Melrose’s rates are in the bottom 30% of those surveyed. The Commission and staff should be commended for their successful and fiscally responsible operations. If Melrose continues to plan appropriately for capital improvement projects, along with maintaining their conservative approach to the overall management of the utilities, the rates are anticipated to remain in the bottom 30%.

1) The 2012 water and wastewater rate comparisons have been obtained from AE2S. The 2012 rates are from communities primarily under 5000 population and rates applied to 6000 gallons of water used each month. Wastewater: The range of charges is $14.15 to $88.50 with Melrose at $31.40; Water: The range of charges is $12.03 to $65.03 with Melrose at $18.15.

2) Electric: The electrical rate data has been obtained from MRES and APPA. MRES data is obtained from a small sample of various utilities based on 2012 rates with Melrose having the second lowest rate at $.0855/KWH or $94.01 for 1100 KWH. APPA’s most current rate survey information is for 2010. The average rate for Minnesota residential customer in 2010 is $.102 which is $.0165 higher than Melrose’s 2012 rate.

Consideration was given to

MOUs would be necessary with the union groups that the program will sunset after a specific period of time. RTS has sample documents for the City to use and will aid in this process. If the program continues, further incentives would be determined at that time. A motion was made by Mr. Klasen, seconded

by Ms. Mayers and unanimously carried authorizing participation in the Wellness Program, authorizing City staff to enter the agreement with RTS, and to work with the LELS and AFSCME union groups on MOUs. Mayor Vogel noted that the Council, at its August 30 Special Meeting, accepted the resignation of Police Officer Chris Swanson.

At that time, the Council continued discussions on the Police Department staffing levels and whether or not to replace Mr. Swanson at its September 13 meeting. The action item was tabled to allow for further review and public comment.

Staff has prepared a revised 2013 Budget which does not include funding for five licensed fulltime Police Officers. If the Council were to adopt the revised budget as presented, it would see an estimated budget savings of ($36,721).

Council Member Christenson noted that he has received phone

Continued to Pg 10

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requesting WSB & Associates to submit a proposal for preliminary engineering reports regarding the 2013 street projects. A motion was made by Mr. Finken, seconded by Mr. Klasen and unanimously carried authorizing WSB & Associates to submit a proposal for preliminary engineering reports for the 2013 street projects.

City Administrator Brethorst noted that the City is able to offer to employees who voluntarily choose to participate in wellness programs pursuant to a pilot program that is made available through RTS Wellness Alliance. The pilot program is intended to be temporary and will have a sunset date. Participation in the pilot program by employees is completely voluntary and is limited to employees enrolled in employer-sponsored group health plans made available through RTS. Incentives apply first to reduce the employEE’s share of health insurance premiums. If any incentives remain, they are then contributed to an employee’s HSA, VEBA, or HRA account. The incentive for 2013 for completing a health risk assessment in the fall of 2012 is $200 and for 2014 for completing a bio-metric screening during fall of 2013 is $240.

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Page 10 • Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012 Continued from Pg 9

calls from several residents both opposing and supporting the Police staffing level; however, many of those on fixed incomes do not want more taxes.

Council Member Klasen stated that he has given a lot of consideration on this subject as this has been one of the more difficult issues. He too received numerous phone calls, 60% against, 40% in support. This is not the last time we will address a cut. Mr. Klasen noted that public safety is a major concern.

Council Member Mayers received a lot of phone calls on this subject and staff is looking at ways to manage this issue and perhaps it would worth giving a four Police Officer force a try. Ms. Mayers also stated the magnitude of difficulty on making a decision on this issue.

Council Member Finken stated his concern in the reduction of Police staff. Mr. Finken has rode along with Police Officers on several occasions and stressed the importance of services they provide such as police back-up, emergency response assistance and having greater visibility in the community.

Council Member Finken noted the negative impact that Police Officers have on bars and Mr. Finken does feel bad for the bar owners, however, not for the drunk driver.

Mr. Finken noted that other cuts can be made, other positions, however does not believe safety should be the place to cut. Jeopardizing public safety should not be an option, the cuts should not come on the back of public safety, it’s the wrong place to cut. Melrose will become training ground for Alexandria Tech.

Mayor Vogel stated the he and all Council Members have the utmost respect for public safety, police department, fire and rescue.

The question becomes cut services or increase taxes. Mayor Vogel noted he also had received more comments against hiring a fifth Police Officer. Mayor Vogel stated that once the officer is hired, we cannot undo the action, while the option always remains open to revisit the hiring in the future. Mayor Vogel

then asked Police Chief Jensen to present the contingency plan for coverage and additional resources that he, along with staff, has formulated.

Chief Jensen stated that if the Department has to drop down to a four-man force, he believes the time is now. That would give him, Sergeant Maus, and Officers Nechanicky and Swanson time to make it work. He noted that with four Officers there would not be 24-hour coverage; however, it would take six officers to obtain this amount of coverage. He also noted that it is recommended that each Police Officer would be assigned a vehicle. This would reduce the response time. In addition, the Department would hire an additional part-time Officer. Chief Jensen stated that if the Department were to get the additional resources, he believes a four-Officer force would work and provide the City with adequate coverage.

Mayor Vogel then called for a motion. A motion was made by Mr. Finken to authorize staff to move forward with the posting of the vacancy of the licensed Police Officer position. The motion was seconded

by Ms. Mayers with a roll call vote recorded as follows: For: Council Members Finken and Mayers; Against: Council Members Klasen and Christenson, and Mayor Vogel.

The motion failed.

After further discussion, a motion was made by Mr. Klasen to adopt the revised budget and authorizing the hiring of a flex parttime Police Officer. The motion was seconded by Mr. Christenson with a roll call vote recorded as follows: For: Council Members Klasen and Christenson, and Mayor Vogel; Against: Council Members Finken and Mayers. The motion passed.

City Administrator Brethorst reported that at the Council’s first meeting in January 2013, consideration will be given to making appointments to the various boards and commissions. Interested in seeking appointment should submit their application to the City Clerk by no later than Friday, November 16. Applications are available on

the website at www.cityofmelrose. com under City Information or at the Melrose City Center. Terms are expiring on the following boards and commissions: • Housing and Redevelopment Authority, one member (five-year term). Term expiring: Joe Finken.

• Planning and Zoning Commission, one member (four-year term). Term expiring: Randy Dufner.

• Public Utilities Commission, one member (three-year term).

Term expiring: Lyle Olmscheid.

Mayor Vogel next reported that the Melrose Area Women of Today are sponsoring a “Meet the Candidates Night” which will be held on Thursday, October 25 at 7:00 p.m. at the Melrose City Center.

Mayor Vogel noted that Stearns County has retained WSB & Associates to complete the design of Bridge #7163 crossing the Sauk River at CSAH 13. Michael Nielson with WSB & Associates presented the three options for bridge replacement. Michael Nielson with WSB & Associates presented the three options for bridge replacement. Mr. Nielson noted that the cost to the City for Option I would be minimal as a majority of the cost would be covered by Stearns County. Option II would provide a four-legged intersection; however, would require the acquisition of two properties on Main Street to accommodate the bridge shift. In addition, the connection of 1st Street NE to CSAH 13 would be eliminated with a cul-de-sac being constructed. This alternative would have significant impact to the park property due to the relocation of the bridge. The additional estimated cost to the City to complete Option II would be approximately $775,000 over the base cost without retaining walls and $850,000 with retaining walls to reduce the parkland impacts. In addition to the street and property acquisition costs, the cost to relocate the City utilities onto the new bridge would be the City’s responsibility. These estimates only include the fair market value of the properties to be acquired and do not include any demolition or reloca-

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tion costs for these businesses. Option III investigates relocating 5th Avenue NE. Access to 1st Street NE would be limited to the southbound right turn lane from CSAH 13 to 1st Street NE. This option would have less impact on the park property, however, more impact on the commercial properties along 5th Avenue NE. This added cost to the City is estimated at $1,025,000 which includes the roadway improvements and the fair market value of the four properties that would need to be acquired for construction of the 5th Avenue NE south of CSAH 13.

In addition, the City-owned utilities currently located on the bridge would need to be relocated to the new bridge at City cost. The opinion of probable cost does not include any demolition or relocation costs that would be incurred by the City.

These costs are planning level estimates and further study design work would be required to provide more accurate estimates of probable cost.

After further review, the Council, by consensus, recommended that WSB & Associates move forward with Option I. Planning and Development Director Walz noted that following an application submission by the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA), the City recently received Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding for the construction of five new onsite parking stalls at Rose View Manor under Phase One of a two-phase project. As the local government with zoning authority over the Rose View Manor property, the City is required to serve as the Responsible Entity for any improvements, renovations and new construction. Because Rose View Manor will be developing on vacant land, 24 CFR 941.304(I) requires that an environmental review be completed to assess potential impacts to the land prior to the release of funding. As the Responsible Entity, the City must complete this review and allow for public comment on it. WSB & Associates was retained by the HRA to complete this review and it is being presented here for the Council’s review and approval. Following approval, the document will be made available to the public for a 15-day comment period. After the comment period is complete, comments will be addressed and a request for the release

of the funding will be sent to HUD. Proposed schedule: Thursday, October 18 - Council reviews and signs Environmental Assessment document.

Friday, October 19: Notice Of Finding Of No Significant Impact And Notice Of Intent To Request Release Of Funds. Copies of the Environmental Assessment document sent to City Center, Rose View Manor and Library for public viewing.

Wednesday, October 24: 15-day comment period begins.

Thursday, November 9 - 15-day comment period ends. Assuming no comments are received, the Request for Release of Funds is signed by the Responsible Entity and sent to HUD. A motion was made by Mr. Finken, seconded by Mr. Klasen and unanimously carried approving the Environmental Assessment document and authorizing its signing by the Mayor and also signing by the Mayor of the Request for Release of Funds upon the expiration of the comment period with any comments and objections having been addressed.

The following informational items were discussed: a. The following are schools and/or conferences where registrations were made: 1) Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association 2012 Annual Conference - October 18-20 in Duluth. Registration: $210 per person. Attending: Fire Chief Jeremy Kraemer, Second Assistant Chief Tom Budde and Training Officer Joe Woeste; 2) LMC Healthcare Reform Webinar on October 11. Registration fee: N/A Attending: Human Resource Technician Diane Gruber. b. Utilities Commission’s September 10 Regular Meeting minutes. c. The City has submitted approximately three years of sales tax reimbursement for the Electric Department. The reimbursement equals approximately $9,500. Historically, the City has contracted with our Auditor to submit the three years’ worth of data. The quote for this service was $4,500. As the anticipated reimbursement amount is $9,500, we elected to complete the paperwork in-house. Our last reimbursement was approximately $25,000.

This was primarily due to construction costs. As there have not been as many construction costs over the past few years, we have seen a less amount of eligible reimbursements for sales tax. d. Correspondence from Sister Cities International outlining member benefits. e. Building Permit Summary Log for Third Quarter 2012. The total number/value of building permits issued in the third quarter for each of the past five years were: 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 43 54 29 52 51 $1,440,607

$866,650

$532,240

$986,000

$3,165,967 $2,066,523 $9,051,559 $10,207,712 $10,533,546

• Note: Prior to 2009, building permit totals included permits issued for demolition, moving, zoning and signs. These are no longer included because these activities are not subject to the Building Code nor does Building Official Dan Marthaler generally get involved in them. f. Director Harren provided an update on the time requirements, obligation and the benefits of holding a seat on the MRES Board of Directors.

The Public Utilities Commission, at their October 8 meeting, felt that it was invaluable to have representation on the MRES Board. It is the consensus of the Commission that the Public Works Director attends the MRES Board meetings which will average two days per month, but encouraged other representation for other non-MRES Board related meetings. City Administrator Brethorst and Director Harren will work out the attendance of other staff when appropriate. g. City Administrator Brethorst updated the Council on the LMC Regional Meeting he attended in Sauk Rapids on Thursday, October 10.

A motion was made by Mr. Finken, seconded by Mr. Christenson and unanimously carried that the meeting be adjourned at 9:45 p.m.

Patricia Haase, City Clerk

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Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012 • Page 11

Unseasonably warm weather, cold water can be dangerous to late season boaters With unusually warm weather this month, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is warning boaters and waterfowl hunters to not to let their guard down.

So far this fall, four people have died during the late boating season.

“All boaters need to remember they must wear a personal floatation device,” said DNR Conservation Officer Capt. Greg Salo. “Low water levels are exposing several hazards - rocks, low wing dams, stumps, etc. Operators and passengers can be easily thrown overboard after coming into contact with one of these hazards.”

While air temperatures are mild, the cold water can prove dangerous, or even deadly, especially if people don’t consider the consequences of cold water shock and hypothermia that can result from falling into water at this time of year, Salo said.

Waterfowl hunters must also wear a personal floating device (PFD).

While some hunters find it uncomfortable to wear PFDs while hunting, Salo said, “camo float coats are a good option for hunters but they must be properly worn and zipped to count as a PFD.”

The DNR recommends these safety tips for late season boaters: • Wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket; even good swimmers need to wear one.

• Don’t go out in any boat after drinking alcohol; the effects of alcohol are more dramatic while balancing in a boat than while standing on dry land.

• Don’t go boating alone; boating safety increases with numbers.

• Don’t overload the boat.

• Keep an eye on the weather and go to shore if the wind picks up.

• Tell someone about trip plans and when to call 911 if not back at a certain time.

• If boat becomes swamped or capsizes, stay with it if possible and await rescue, because most boats will continue to float, even after capsizing and filling with water. Drowning often occurs when the victim tries to swim to shore rather than face the embarrassment of being rescued.

For more information on boating and water safety, visit the DNR website, http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/boatwater/index.html.

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Page 12 • Hometown News • Thursday, November 22, 2012

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