Hometown News
Never give up hope -By Harvey Mackay
MONDAYS • 5 PM
The Hometown News is a free weekly publication, which is published and distributed every Thursday.
Free Distribution In: Albany Avon Bowlus Burtrum Elmdale Freeport Greenwald Grey Eagle Holdingford Meire Grove Long Prairie Melrose New Munich
from your failures, making the necessary adjustments and approaching your challenges with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism.
My dear friend Lou Holtz always says you need four things in your life, otherwise you are going to have a tremendous void. Number one, everyone needs something to do. Number two, everyone needs someone to love. Number three, everyone needs someone to believe in. And number four, everyone needs something in their life to hope for.
What do you want to do? You have to have hope, ambition and dreams.
My wish, dream and hope, aside from being a professional golfer, was to own my own factory. I didn’t know what I would manufacture, but I always hoped to be able to walk the factory floor and be able to have my employees look up to me.
But I didn’t wait for it to fall in my lap. I acted on that hope and made my dreams come true.
Hope is what gets many of us through our worst days. Hope is believing that every cloud has a silver lining, and when that cloud rains, it makes things grow. A perfect partner is faith, for without faith, hope is meaningless.
the world’s other evils. Soon they discovered that without hope to offset their troubles, humanity was filled with despair. So Pandora let out hope as well. In the myth, hope was more potent than any of the other major evils.
Anna St. Rosa Sauk Centre Swanville Upsala
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When I was just starting out in the early days of my career, I faced numerous rejections. Job interviews, sales pitches or attempts to secure funding. Rejection was a constant companion. It was during this period that I met a mentor, a seasoned entrepreneur with decades of experience. He shared a story from his early days that I have never forgotten. He was on the verge of bankruptcy. His company was failing, and he couldn’t see a way out. Creditors were knocking, and it seemed like every door was closing on him. One evening, feeling particularly low, he took a walk by a river, trying to clear his head. There, he saw a group of children playing with a makeshift boat. They would place the boat in the water, watch it capsize, retrieve it, fix it and try again. No matter how many times the boat capsized, the children’s enthusiasm and hope never waned. They were determined to see their boat sail.
This simple scene struck a chord with him. He realized that his approach had been all wrong. He had been focusing on the failures, the capsized boats, without considering that each failure was an opportunity to learn, to fix what was wrong and to try again with renewed hope and determination. Inspired by the children’s perseverance, he went back to the drawing board. He analyzed his business, identified the flaws and started fixing them, one by one. It wasn’t easy, and it took time, but eventually his business not only recovered but thrived.
This story taught me an invaluable lesson about hope. It is not just about blindly wishing for things to get better. It is about learning
Hope also plays a crucial role in economic decisions. Entrepreneurs start new businesses with the hope that they will succeed and contribute to the community’s prosperity. Consumers make purchases, hoping that their choices will lead to satisfaction and wellbeing.
Overall, hope is the undercurrent that propels society forward. It is the belief that despite current challenges, there are possibilities for a brighter future that can be realized through collective effort and perseverance.
A leader is a dealer of hope. But if you don’t have it, you can’t share it. It starts with you. What gives you hope? What do you hope for?
In Greek mythology, Pandora opened her fabled box and let out all evils except for hope, which Greeks considered to be as dangerous as
In modern times, we consider hope to be anything but evil. It’s what gets many of us through our worst days. Inflation, credit card debt, foreclosure, dwindling retirement funds, businesses folding – any of these could make a person lose hope.
In my observation, hope is a powerful motivator that drives communities and individuals to strive for better outcomes, even in the face of adversity. When people have hope, they are more likely to engage in actions that can lead to positive change.
Mackay’s Moral: Hope is the compass that guides us through the darkest nights, fueled by the lessons learned in the light of day.
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.” 29442
Upcoming Events
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28
• Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Word of Life Free Lutheran Church, Upsala.
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. See ad on page 5.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8
• A Night in Bethlehem starting at 4:30 p.m. at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, Albany. See ad on page 2.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14
• 17th Annual Christmas Cookie CareO-Sell from 8-11:30 a.m. at the Community Covenant Church, Upsala. See ad on page 7.
• Wreaths For The Fallen Bus to Camp Ripley at 9 a.m. at Melrose American Legion. See ad on page 7.
• New Munich Lions Breakfast with Santa from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Hot Shots Bar & Grill, New Munich.
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.
“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne
Marriage
If you were planning to find a spouse, get married and start a family in the good old days, it was very different than it is today. Factors like lack of distance travel, communication, financial restrictions and the influence of parents were somewhat more restrictive than it is today.
The theory of having the only one true love in your life may be questionable when one considers the situation. Back in the time when one either traveled on foot or horseback finding one's only true love was probably restricted to about a couple of mile radius. In many cases, the special person lived on the place across the fence. In most of those cases, it simply involved two people that wanted to marry and were able to positively accept the other person's character.
Many of the original settlers were born in foreign countries and the traditional habits from the old country were very important to the parents. As a result, contact between the potential couples were sometimes quite restrictive and formal, following old rules and accepted practices. There were also many marriages that were arranged with parents of another family as to which child would marry which child of another family.
Religious faith was also a great restriction regarding who their child could marry. In many cases the parent's religious beliefs would not allow their child to marry or even socialize with someone of another christian faith. Both faiths had the same goals and solutions, but how the worship service was done made the other faith evil.
When early marriages were performed, the new couple would be married in a church. Following the church service the new couple and guests would travel to the bride's house, where they were fed a big meal and in many cases as many beverages as they could hold. Quite often local musicians would play music well into the evening. The wedding gifts were opened in the afternoon while the female guests watched. Pictures may be taken showing the groom seated on a chair and the bride standing beside him with her hand on his right shoulder. Before the guests went home they would have a little lunch, which was a tradition before the trip home.
A few days after the wedding it was common for a large group of friends, carrying whatever type of noisemaker they could find, to go to the new couple's residence. The racket from the bangs and whistles would awaken the new couple and they would know that they were being given a charivari and would need to offer food and refreshments to the new arrivals.
Today marriages frequently involve two people that are from more distant locations. The couple are usually older and have been educated or trained in a trade that frequently would allow them to support themselves. The wedding party is often made up of about 10 people. All of the females have the same expensive dresses and the bride's dress is usually not a hand me down from her mother. After the ceremony the guests gather at an expensive location that is able to hold the expected number of guests. A band is hired to offer entertainment for the group and the meal is bought from a catering service that will be able to feed a formal-type meal to the guests. The entire affair usually becomes quite expensive.
Marriages years ago seem to have been created to start a family. Today they seem to be created so that two people can have a life together. Which reason is better is yet to be determined, but the termination of marriages today is greater than in the past. Maybe it's more satisfying to make babies and raise a family than to simply work toward personal achievement goals.
For feedback or story ideas, email Tom at kuehneins@gmail.com.
If you need help with Health or Life Insurance or for Senior Health Solutions Contact: Tom Kuehne 320-360-0343
From the Desk of Pastor Bruce
I have been thinking about the Israelites a lot lately. Can you imagine having your nation’s history start out so good and yet have so many ups and downs? Joseph was sold by his brothers because he was loved by their dad, maybe a little jealousy going on there. Of course, it didn’t help that he shared the dreams he was having where the entire family would bow down to him. The amazing thing is that it happened, after Joseph was thrown into prison, God delivered him to be the second in command in Egypt. Joseph was raised up for the very purpose of rescuing his family from the very bad drought that was coming. 400 years later the Israelites were being tortured severely and God rescued them in some very amazing ways. God told them to ask the Egyptians for gold and silver and clothes. It was God’s way of looting Egypt, leaving them in a bankrupt state.
The amazing thing is that the Israelites complained and argued against God at every little thing that might have gone wrong. I remember thinking as a kid when reading this,
“I am sure glad I don’t complain!” Wow, yes, I said that! But I do… I am just like the Israelites. It is Thanksgiving Day, and it is a small reminder that we need to have the an attitude of gratitude at all times.
I have been preaching through Philippians, one of my favorite books. A couple of weeks ago I preached on Philippians 2:14 says “Do everything with out complaining or arguing.” So many times, I get to share with people how they can have peace, even in the middle of a huge trial. Philippians 4:6-7 says “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Bring your requests before God with THANKSGIVING!
Listen up! We need to change our hearts! We need to have an attitude of Gratitude, in everything, so we do not become discontent. -Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Bourbon Tasting Event
Larry F. Steffen
Larry Steffen, age 80, of Long Prairie, passed away on Sunday, November 17, at the St. Cloud Hospital. Funeral services were held Friday, November 22, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Long Prairie. Reverend Noah Wehrspann officiated the service, and burial was at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery.
Larry Steffen was born in Bertha, Minnesota, on March 15th, 1944. He was the son of Frank and Clara (Berndt) Steffen and graduated from Long Prairie High School. Over the years, Larry worked for several companies, including Fingerhut and Harts Press, before securing a position at Central By-Products in Long Prairie, where he worked until his retirement. Despite his various jobs, he always considered himself a farmer at heart.
Larry married Carolyn Proell on September 28, 1968. The couple moved to rural Long Prairie, where Larry raised various animals, including rabbits, chickens, sheep, and goats. He also had a fondness for dogs, often rescuing them from shelters. Larry took great pride in his garden, especially his sweet corn, and enjoyed competing with his brother, LeRoy, to grow the most giant pumpkins. He was an avid hunter and lifelong NRA member. He enjoyed John Wayne, western movies, and the Vikings. Larry had a keen interest in studying and predicting the weather. Above all, he cherished his family. He was involved with his children and grandchildren in 4-H, which brought him immense joy. He beamed with pride when they won awards. Bouncing his great-grandchildren on his knee brought him great happiness. Larry maintained a successful marriage of 56 years by adhering to his vow never to go to bed angry with Carolyn.
Larry is survived by his wife, Carolyn, of Long Prairie; his daughters Bonnie (William) Schleter of Arnold, MO, and Becky Crider (Jim Urman) of Long Prairie; his grandchildren Tiffany Loven (Justin), Amanda Robinson (Ammanuel), Shane Crider (Kailey), Ashley Crider (Wade Lunser), Hailey Rivera (Alex), and Joshua Schelter; and seven great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, LeRoy; his son, Brian; and his daughter, Anita Steffen.
Timothy L. Preusser
Timothy "Tim" L. Preusser, 72, of Avon, MN, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, November 17, 2024. A funeral service was held Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Williams Dingmann Funeral Home in Saint Cloud, MN. Tim was laid to rest at Saint Benedict's Parish Cemetery in Avon, MN.
Tim was born on October 3, 1952, to August F. Sr. and Lorraine T. (Vogel) Preusser. He was the eldest of six brothers raised on the family farm in Avon, MN. Tim grew up taking charge of the work to be done and had a strong will that persisted throughout his life. Never one to sit idle, Tim is described as always working on something. Tim had a love for animals which included horses, goats, chickens, geese and always a dog or two. He also loved the outdoors and enjoyed deer hunting. He immersed himself in knowledge, reading and speaking about politics that interested him. For the majority of his career, Tim worked as a Quality Inspector of gears for Columbia Gear in Avon, MN. He remained dedicated to his position for over 46 years until his retirement in December 2020.
Left to cherish Tim's memory are his brothers: August E. Jr. (Joyce), Mark, Andrew, Sylvester, and Dominic "Nick" (Kelly); eight nieces and nephews; 11 great-nieces and great-nephews; and former spouse Lois. Tim was preceded in death by his parents, August and Lorraine.
Todays Thought What do you call a running turkey? Fast food.
Rose Mary Binek
Rose Mary Binek, age 97 of Little Falls (formerly of Upsala) passed away peacefully on Friday, November 15, 2024 at Diamond Willow Assisted Living in Little Falls, MN. The mass of Christian burial celebrating her life was held Saturday, November 23, 2024 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Upsala, MN. Burial was in the parish cemetery.
Rose Mary was born July 10, 1927 in Krain Township to Henry and Anna (Busch) Ramler. She grew up on a farm north of Albany and attended country school and high school in Albany. Following graduation she was united in marriage to Ted Binek at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany on May 4, 1949. The couple made their home in Avon, MN where Ted farmed. In 1951 they moved to Mountain Lake, MN
where they owned and operated a gas station. In 1954 they bought a farm north of Upsala where they lived for over 50 years. They moved into the town of Upsala in 2003. After Ted passed, Rose Mary moved to Bridgeway Estates in 2015 and later to Diamond Willow in 2022, both in Little Falls, MN.
Rose Mary was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the Christian Womens Group. She enjoyed playing cards, horseshoes, bowling, quilting, doing crafts, and fishing. She mostly enjoyed spending time with family, especially her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. She loved to tease them and had a wonderful sense of humor.
Rose Mary is survived by her son and daughters Gary (Mary) Binek of Brainerd, Judy Mrosla of West Fargo, Janice (Mike) Kiley of Sauk Rapids, Deb Zimmerman of Pace, FL and Kim Binek of Little Falls. She is also survived by her sister Dolores (Cel) Philippi, 14 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Ted on February 20, 2008, sons Richard and Darwin, brothers Clarence, Ambrose, Roman and Melvin, sisters Bernice Senger and Mildred Mueller.
Special Recognition for Good Work Done
By Barb James, SWCD Supervisor
On October 10, 2024, the Soil and Water Board of Supervisors (SWCD) made up of Lee Buchholz of Round Prairie, Wayne Wendel of Germania TWP, Barb James of Moran TWP, Dale Katterhagen of Ward TWP, and Tom Williamson of Gordon TWP held their annual awards ceremony at Tutti Fruitti Kitchen.
Present was the State Board of Soil and Water Resources, Darren Meyers, United States Fish and Wildlife Services, John Riens, West Central Technical Service Area 2 Engineer, Ross Reiffenberger, Todd County Commissioners, Bob Byer and Barb Becker, Natural Resource Conservation Services (NRCS) staff, SWCD staff, and the honorees. Being honored at the event were the Todd County Conservation Farm of the Year, the Land Stewards of the year, a Todd County Precipitation Monitor Volunteer, and a Years of SWCD Service Award.
Honored as Conservation Farmers of the Year was the Jason and Danielle Kreemer Family Farm who over the years have protected wetlands and drainage areas by installing exclusion fencing, heavy use cattle alleys, alternative watering systems, proper waste storage facilities, runoff diversions, cover crops, and conservation tillage. The farm is Ag Water Quality Certified, manages nutrients, and uses up to date technology for planting and fertilizing. The family of six, including children Jaxon, Aliyah, Riley, and Tucker, is very active in Future Farmers of America, Farm Bureau, Todd County Corn and Soy bean Association and other community involved programs and events.
Honored for Land Stewardship was The
Fairy Lake Lions Club for their care and commitment to children, community and the environment of Fairy Lake in Kandota TWP. Fairy Lake is one of Todd’s cleanest lakes and is classified as a Lake of Biological Significance by the DNR. While DNR was not able to be present at the meeting, Jason Kern, a Protection Program Forester, Division of Forestry, DNR, submitted a wonderful statement and outline of the buckthorn control project the club initiated at the park on the lake, while John Riens, USFWS, acknowledged the efforts of the club in their Oak Savanna and Prairie Grassland restoration project and a future wetland restoration project. The SWCD described how the club donated an easement to the Fairy Lake Association for a project integral to preventing downstream erosion, re-establishing a wetland outlet, and reducing flood damage at the lake. The club also worked with the DNR, Todd County Public Works, the SWCD and the West Central Technical Engineer, Ross Reiffenberger, P. E. to restore the original channel at a Culvert under HWY 11. The Fairy Lake Park, maintained by the club, is a travel destination for many from all parts of the state to enjoy picnicking, swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and disc golf.
Ross Reiffenberger, P. E., a resident of Osakis, designed the engineering plan for both
SWCD continued to pg 7
DOWN SILO LLC • Take down & cleanup of silos in
topdownsilo.com
Anniversary Open House
Eugene and Gloria Hallermann
Eugene and Gloria Hallermann and family invite you to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with an open house on Saturday, November 30, 2024 from 2-5 p.m. at Diamond Point, Sauk Centre.
Gene and Gloria (Moore) were married November 30, 1974 in Grey Eagle, MN.
Night in Bethlehem to be held at Our Saviors Lutheran Church
A community gathering for A Night in Bethlehem will be held at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Albany on Sunday, December 8.
An invitation for all community friends to explore the City of Bethlehem during the time of Jesus’ birth. Through hands on experiences, you will find out about the most important baby ever and that Jesus came to save us.
From 4:30-6 p.m. there is a Marketplace, free tickets are required for this event. Sign the
Census, sample foods, along with make and take crafts.
Nativity Story Retold will take place from 6:15-7 p.m. No tickets are required. Enjoy the retelling of the Nativity story. Food shelf donations are appreciated and accepted. Tickets are available at the church office or by calling Kaye 320-333-2088. Our Saviors Lutheran Church is located at 820 Forest Ave., Albany, MN 56307.
28916 County Rd. 17 - St. Rosa 320-836-2583
Gas/Diesel/Premium
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 Bethany,
Dear Dave,
One of my credit card bills was turned over to a collection agency, because I was late making payments several times. The agency has offered me two or three different payment options I can afford. If I agree to one of these, does the original creditor get paid, as well?
-Bethany
You’re facing one of two possibilities. The collection agency is either directly representing the credit card company, or it owns the debt outright. Neither way of handling it is unusual when someone has defaulted on a loan.
Here’s the deal. You’ve already got a mark against you on your credit report for the bill being turned over to collections. So, at this point settling on a credit card you’ve defaulted on is really no big deal. Unless you have the cash on hand right now to make good on the debt outright, I’d accept whichever deal makes the most sense for you financially at the moment.
But if you want my very best piece of advice for you, and anyone else finding themselves in this kind of situation, Bethany, it goes something like this. Stop using credit cards!
-Dave
Dear Dave,
When I leave my job in two or three years, I’ll still have a good income of around $80,000 thanks to my pension. I talked with
my wife recently about us not needing an emergency fund with a continuing steady income like this, but she thinks we should still have money set aside strictly for emergencies. I think we would be fine with my pension and our other investments, but she says a fund set aside strictly for the unexpected would make her feel safer. What are your thoughts?
-Barrett
Dear Barrett,
I always recommend folks have an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses. Put it in a good money market account with check writing privileges and a decent interest rate. That way, your money will work for you a little bit until it’s needed.
I know a good pension can feel really solid. But there’s always the possibility of lost income or very large, unexpected expenses. Life can take a big financial chunk out of you at any time. What if one, or both of you, have a major medical event? Even with the other investments you mentioned, you should have an emergency fund. Period.
In your case, you could probably lean toward three months of expenses in your emergency fund. If it were me, I’d go ahead and make it a full six months of expenses. Trust me, a fully funded emergency fund will make both of you feel better. It can turn a disaster into nothing more than an inconvenience.
-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,
Guys, my brakes are broken.
I have a 2008 Ford F350 single wheel truck and I’m on my fourth set of brakes in four years. I put about 6k miles a year on this truck to pull my camper. I have been told I’m over pulling and that’s why the brakes are wearing out, but my camper fully loaded as weighed on the scale is only 8k lbs. That’s under what the truck is rated for. The same shop has been replacing the brakes for me and they do all my other work. The truck I had before this was a 2000 and it never had brakes in 90k miles. What can cause this?
-Michael in Holland, Michigan Dear Michael,
Take a close look at your receipt. What was done? A detail-oriented shop will write down what was done in detail at times like this. They should always know what they did before by looking at your description in case it comes back sooner than expected. If they have only replaced pads and rotors and have not replaced calipers or brake hoses and there is no description about cleaning and lubricating slides and making sure they are free, then there may lie the problem. If brake hoses are restricted it can cause a pull and premature wear. Same goes for sticking calipers or caliper slides. You should be able to get many more miles out of these brakes. Something is likely getting missed during the brake job. Ask your shop about these items.
- Take care, The Motor Medics
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070
Mon., Dec. 2: Tater tot hotdish, carrots, cookie, bread.
Tues., Dec. 3: Beef patty w/gravy, whipped potatoes, mixed vegetables, bread.
Wed., Dec. 4: Chicken tetrazzini, peas & carrots, peaches, bread.
Thurs., Dec. 5: Baked pork chop, whipped potatoes, gravy, squash, bread.
Fri., Dec. 6: BBQ chicken breast, macaroni & cheese, broccoli, bread.
Pre-registration requested to dine daily.
For more info. call 320-845-4070.
Dear Motor Medics,
I’m looking at getting a vehicle with 4-wheel drive. I moved here from California and have never driven in snow. I don’t know how to drive in it and want to make sure I have the best vehicle possible for the snow. I am looking at either a Subaru or a Jeep Cherokee but there are so many choices of four-wheel drive type I am confused. What’s the difference between Four-Wheel Drive and All-Wheel Drive, and does it matter? You guys are the best. I listened to your show in California for ten years before moving here.
-Regan on Montevideo, Minnesota Dear Regan, Step one, a four-wheel drive car does not make you a better driver. This is important to remember as you will see during winter people get a false sense of security when speeding down the road in a four-wheel drive. Those are usually the same people who are crashed into the median or down in the ditch. However, once they are stuck, they have a much better chance of getting unstuck on their own. Fourwheel drive is for getting moving by way of better traction not for stopping. Four-wheel drive can be shut off and all wheel is mostly automatic but some four wheel is too. Time for some research on your own as it would take a long time to describe them both.
-Take care, the Motor Medics For entertainment only. Always consult your local shop and follow all safety procedures before repairs. Come visit the Motor Medics® online at Underthehoodshow.com.
Local Municipality Minutes
Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com
Swanville City • October 8
Minutes of the Swanville City Council meeting held in the Swanville Center on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. The meeting called to order 7:00 p.m. with the following members present: Sandy Lange, Norm Carlson, Tony Maciej, John Dragseth and Jim Molitor, also present: Carter Loven and Lonny Hutchins
Minutes of the Swanville City Council meeting held Wednesday, September 4, 2024 were reviewed. A motion was made by Tony Maciej to approve the minutes. Jim Molitor seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.
The treasures report was given. A motion was made by Tony Maciej and seconded John Dragseth to approve the treasurer’s report. All members voted in favor, motion carried.
Water Project update, Eagle Construction will wait until spring to start the water storage tank. The new meters will be from Winwater Company. This project is subject to start sometime in December.
North Berkey First Addition has started with Land Pride Construction doing the work. Water and sewer lines will be in soon. This addition is classified as High Residential in zoning. Council discussed lot prices. After discussion, Tony Maciej made a motion to charge $1.00 a square foot for the lots. Norm Carlson seconded the motion. All members voted in favor except Mayor Lange abstained, motion passed. Sytek gave a quote of $12,000.00 to lay the phone/internet lines. Tony Maciej made a motion to accept the Sytek quote. Norm Carlson seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.
Carter Loven was present to discuss purchasing land in the Industrial Park to put in a fitness gym. The lot is approx. 1.7 acres. Tony Maciej made a motion to sell the lot for $21,780.00. There will be no curb and gutter, owner will put in own approach and driveway and will have to pay for water and sewer and electric hookups fees. Norm Carlson seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.
TextMyGov is up and running. So, messages will go out to all that are signed up.
Central MN Housing still has openings for residential, rental and business updates.
Morrison County is setting up guidelines for the Cannabis Business Ordinance which the City of Swanville will be following.
Alan Loxterkamp is asking for a land use permit to put down 32’x22’ cement on existing driveway and walkway. Tony Maciej made a motion to give Loxterkamp the land use permit. John Dragseth seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.
The council discussed residents doing land work or building without first getting a permit. After discussion, Jim Molitor made a motion to charge the land owner and the construction company $1000.00 each and construction will cease until the fees are paid. Tony Maciej seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried. Letters will be sent to residents and an ad will be put in the Flyer.
The following claims were presented for payment. Members of the council were furnished with a listing. Tony Maciej made a motion to approve the claims. Jim Molitor seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.
The next regular monthly meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at 7:00 pm. because of Election Day on Tuesday. The meeting will be held in the Swanville Center.
There being no further business, a motion was made by Tony Maciej and seconded by Jim Molitor to adjourn. All members voted in favor, motion carried. Meeting adjourned 8:45pm.
Julie Hollermann, City Clerk/Treasurer
Grey Eagle Township • November 4, 2024
Call to Order: Mike Rohe called the meeting to order at 8:00 pm. The pledge of allegiance was recited.
Members Present: Mary Ann Primus, Mike Rohe, Alan Roering and John Young. Also present were Erv Herdering, Sharon Roering, and Christine Gagne.
Agenda Approval: A preliminary agenda was presented. Mike asked if there were additions to the agenda. Alan made the motion to approve the agenda. John made the second. All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Minutes: John made the motion to accept the October 7, 2024 minutes. Alan made the second. All in favor. Motion passed.
Town Clerk’s Report: Clerk presented the claims list for October. Claims list included claims 4024-4033 for a total of $10,056.00. John made the motion to pay the claims. Alan made the second. All in favor. Motion carried.
Mail included a P&Z letter, letter from Grey Eagle City, info from MATIT insurance- worker’s comp program, and Opioid settlement meeting.
The financial report was presented, Alan made the motion to approve the financial report, John made the second. All in favor. Motion carried.
Road and Bridge Report: Tar project – Discussion on paperwork for the Certificate of Indebtedness. John made the motion to have Mike and Mary Ann meet with Joe Krueger to look over the wording and make sure it was worded correctly. Alan made the second to that motion, Motion carried. Alan made a motion to approve the additional cost for attorney fees and any additional costs in writing up the indebtedness certificate. John made the second. All in favor, Motion carried.
Tree cleanup along 295th became a larger project than anticipated. More trees were damaged. Clean-up will be included in our disaster management. May be planting new trees in the spring.
Angler Trail- Erv took care of the holding pond and raising the road by a few inches to prevent the water from washing out the end of the roadway. May need to pull up dead-end sign yet.
Scherping has been really busy this fall, but may get a road check done yet for brushing.
Corner of 337th and Brakken – Could build up road to where it should be with gravel and have it packed. Some brushing would be helpful as well.
Erv presented the snow contract amount for 2024-2025, slightly higher. John made a motion to approve the contract, Alan made the second, all in favor. Motion carried.
Additional agenda item:
Signatures were done on disaster management plan from August 3, storm.
Alan may attend the Annual Conference John will try to at least check out the exhibit hall.
Public Comments: None
Adjourn: Motion to adjourn by John second by Alan. All in favor. Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 9:00 pm.
Minutes not approved.
Mary Ann Primus, Clerk/Treasurer
SWCD continued from pg 4 the Kreemer feedlot and Ag waste projects, and the restoration of the original lake outlet project.
Charles Wegner of Todd County was honored for volunteering for over 30 years to the science, collection, and reporting of rain and snowfall data in Todd County. Nationwide, there are over 20,000 precipitation volunteers. For the past four years, Minnesota has been recognized for having the strongest volunteer precipitation network and the greatest number of volunteers of all 50 states. Wegner has been one of 12 volunteers across Todd County committed to the SWCD’s Volunteer Precipitation Monitoring Network Program. The purpose of this data is to provide guidance to state climatologists on the weather, precipitation, and climate patterns and trends.
Supervisor Chair, Lee Buchholz was surprised with a 25-year recognition award for his commitment to the conservation, protection, and enhancement of Todd County’s Natural Resources as well as the State of Minnesota. Lee has been involved in many local and state initiatives and leadership to bring resources back to local citizens who are willing to manage their land for sustainability into the future whether that be forests, cropland, surface water, groundwater or soil and nutrient management. Buchholz currently serves in a leadership role for the West Central Technical Service Area covering 12 counties in central MN, volunteers at the SWCD Tree Sale, annually, and hosts cover crop and seed trails on his farm in Round Prairie TWP. He and Dale Katterhagen have also designed the Envirofest Corn maze for local six graders. Lee and his wife, Pat, are active in the Todd County Corn and Soybean Growers and other areas of community involvement.
As an SWCD Supervisor, honoring farmers and community members for the good work they do is important. So much time and effort go into these projects and programs that often go un-noticed or are undervalued. These projects are “big deals”- each with a positive and profound impact on water quality and sustainability, not only on the citizens’ properties
Wreaths For The Fallen Bus to Camp Ripley
Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024
9 AM: Bus Leaves Promptly
involved, but for all of society. The impacts are so large that they are often difficult to comprehend by the passer-byer. We can and should be grateful for the work accomplished to protect our natural resources, even when done in “baby” or incremental steps.
Local Library Events
Melrose Library • 320-256-3885
Melrose Holiday Kick-Off: Come join us during the Holiday Kickoff for music and snacks sponsored by the Melrose Friends of the Library and face painting sponsored by the Melrose Area Women of Today. No registration required. Friday, Nov. 29: 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Sauk Centre Library • 320-352-3016
Tech Time: Trouble understanding your laptop, iPad, Kindle, or other electronic device?
Would you like to download books from the library website or use eBooks but aren’t sure how to? Tech help will be on the first Thursday of the Month from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. or other dates/ times by pre-arrangement. Thursday, Dec. 5: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Holiday Music with Homemade Jammin’: Add extra cheer to your holidays with a special concert from musical group Homemade Jammin’. Sue and Connie will perform festive tunes on a variety of instruments including guitar and hammer dulcimer. For all ages. Sponsored by the Friends of the Sauk Centre Library. Saturday, Dec. 14: 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Upsala Library • 320-412-2048
Tech Time: Trouble understanding your laptop, iPad, Kindle, or other electronic device? Would you like to download books from the library website or use eBooks but aren’t sure how to? Tech help will be on the first Wednesday of the Month from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. or other dates/ times by pre-arrangement. Wednesday, Dec. 4: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
small town business." -Chris Poinsettias have arrived!
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.” from Melrose American Legion & returning approx. 12:30 p.m. for a Pizza Party. Space is limited, please register early. No Fee • Donations Welcome Deadline to sign up is Dec. 6. To Register: Call/Text 320-429-4008 Arrive Early • Dress Warm
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.
FOR SALE: Ryobi 20 in. electric snowblower, 40V HP Brushless, single stage, cordless 6.0, 2 batteries, charger, $450. Birch Lake area 612-709-2344. 12/5
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: Medic therapeutic vibrating fitness platform, $100 or bo. Call 320-3600003. 11/14
WANTED TO BUY: Dairy Heifers and Cows. 320-894-7175. SC-evB
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 651-485-5731.
FOR SALE: Drive hospital bed, like new, upgraded mattress, fully electric: bed itself rises and lowers along with adjustable head and legs, new $1800, b/o. Call 612-5972998.
FOR SALE: 2010 King Ranch, 200,000 miles, 5.4 engine, $8,000. Call 320-2412447. 11/28
FOR SALE: Local honey $10/pint, $20/ quart. Pickup St. Rosa 320-290-0471. 12/26
FOR SALE: Inversion table, like new, paid $389, sell for $100. Call 763-229-5275. 11/28
Exercise Preparation for Thanksgiving Funny
Begin by standing on a comfortable surface, where you have plenty of room at each side.
With a 5-lb potato sack in each hand, extend your arms straight out from your sides and hold them there as long as you can. Try to reach a full minute, and then relax. Each day, you'll find that you can hold this position for just a bit longer.
After a couple of weeks, move up to 10-lb potato sacks.
Then try 50-lb potato sacks and then eventually try to get to where you can lift a 100-lb potato sack in each hand and hold your arms straight for more than a full minute.
After you feel confident at that level, put a potato in each of the sacks.
