Hometown News Sept. 1, 2011

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

September 1, 2011

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Harvey Mackay Obituary: Fedor Saralee Perel The Future of Burtrum Post Office Local Municipality Minutes

Page 2 Page 4 Page 5 Page 5 Page 9

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Page 2 • Hometown News • Thursday, September 1, 2011

Hometown News

A person who loses his temper usually loses By Harvey Mackay Lately it seems like every night when I watch ESPN to get the day’s baseball scores and highlights, I see another pitcher throwing a temper tantrum in the dugout after a poor perfor-

29442 120th St. Grey Eagle, MN 56336 Phone: 320-285-2323 Fax: 320-285-5264 Website: www.hometownnews.biz Email: htnews@meltel.net www.facebook.com/hometownnews The Hometown News is a weekly publication, which is published and distributed every Thursday.

Published By

John and Lori Young

Sales Staff

Jan Theisen Cell: 320-333-9774 Fax: 320-845-2067 Email: htnews2@albanytel.com Lori Young Office: 320-285-2323 Cell: 612-597-2998 Fax: 320-285-5264 Email: loriyoung@meltel.net

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mance.

San Francisco Giants star relief pitcher, Brian Wilson, had one of the more visible meltdowns when he was pulled from a game in the ninth inning.

He proceeded to storm into the dugout where he picked up the water cooler and heaved it against the bench.

Then he grabbed a bat and pummeled that same water cooler, and then punched a cardboard box.

What was more alarming was what Wilson said afterwards, “Give yourself 30 seconds to completely lose it, then come back and be part of the team.”

Did I hear that correctly?

Does that mean that it’s okay for your teenager to come home and trash the house after a rough day at school -- just for 30 seconds? Or should the employee who blows up at work be forgiven for knocking over the water cooler? That only takes 5 seconds. How about people who go crazy verbally and cuss a blue streak? A lot of very nas-

ty and damaging words can be uttered in half a minute!

Is this out-of-control behavior acceptable?

Absolutely, definitely, positively, most certainly NOT! When you blow your stack you add to the world’s pollution. These hotheads don’t understand that every time you lose your temper you advertise yourself -- and you’re not selling a positive. Nothing cooks your goose more than a boiling temper.

I spend a lot of time on the golf course and I’ve seen more than my share of temper tantrums on the links. As an avid golfer, I understand frustration -and a temper is the first thing a golfer has to control. A little white ball shouldn’t tee you off to the point of ugliness.

Since golf is half mental, those who take a grim delight in being tempera-

mental usually are more “temper” than “mental.” I always say, if you lose your head, what is the use of the rest of your body?

Maybe this is why baseball Hall of Famer and Cubs great Ernie Banks said, “Baseball reveals character; golf exposes it.”

But back to work. Keeping your temper in check is not just essential, it’s the mark of a professional. Where two or more people work together, disagreements are an ever-present part of the landscape. There are plenty of ways to be unhappy about a situation without being unpleasant. Consider these ideas: • Figure out what you’re really angry about. Are you upset at the current situation, or is your discontent a carryover from previous events?

• Count to ten -- or twenty or thirty if necessary. Just as you can’t un-ring a bell, taking back angry and hurtful words is next to impossible.

• Excuse yourself for a few minutes if possible. Walking away from a volatile situation gives you a chance to collect yourself and measure your reaction.

• Take care of your health. Studies show that people who eat properly, exercise and get enough sleep are better equipped to handle stressful situations.

• Share your concerns calmly. It takes two to tango, but things slow down if one of them does a waltz instead.

• Give the other side a break, even if you think they’re wrong. You may discover there are other unrelated factors at work that are guiding the discussion.

Diffusing the tension can lead to a better resolution.

• Choose your battles according to how important the outcome would be.

Harvey Mackay continued to pg 3

Upcoming Events SEPTEMBER 4 • St. Rose of Lima Annual Fall Festival starting at 10 a.m. on church grounds, St. Rosa. See ad on page 12.

SEPTEMBER 5 • Tractor Pull starting at 11 a.m. at the Centennial Park, Grey Eagle.

SEPTEMBER 7 • Heavenly Harp Concert at 7 p.m. at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, Upsala.

SEPTEMBER 10 • Villard All School Reunion starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Corral, Nelson.

SEPTEMBER 11 • Catholic United Financial Pancake & Sausage Breakfast from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Church Hall, Grey Eagle.

• St. Michael’s Matching Grant Breakfast from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Spring Hill Church basement.

SEPTEMBER 15 • Community Builders Meeting at 2 p.m. at Village Café, Grey Eagle.

SEPTEMBER 16-18 • Albany Pioneer Days Threshing

Show.

SEPTEMBER 18 • Grey Eagle/Swanville Knights of Columbus Council Sausage & Eggs Breakfast from 8:30 a.m.-noon at St. John The Baptist Church Hall, Swanville.

SEPTEMBER 21 • Freeport Community Center Chicken Fry from 5-8 p.m. at the Freeport Community Center.

SEPTEMBER 25 • Albany Legion Breakfast from 8 a.m.12:30 p.m.

ALCOHOL ANONYMOUS • Meets every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Grace Alive, Albany.

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 Monday 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 second Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

If you have an upcoming event or meeting, please let us know by email: htnews@meltelnet or call 320-285-2323.

Temperatures Date 8/24 8/25 8/26 8/27 8/28 8/29 8/30

High 77 79 83 72 73 77 67

Low 60 54 60 56 56 52 59

Friday

Showers.

High: 70 Low: 49

Weekend Weather Saturday

Partly cloudy.

High: 68 Low: 49

Sunday

Partly sunny.

High: 67 Low: 47

Hometown News •Thursday, September 1, 2011 • Page 3

Birth Announcements

Anniversary Peter and Marilyn Heidgerken

Sawyer Joseph Hoppe

Jason and Heidi Hoppe of Freeport are proud to announce the birth of their son, Sawyer Joseph Hoppe, born Saturday, August 27, 2011 at 10:59 a.m. at the CentraCare Health System-Melrose.

Sawyer weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces and measured 20 inches in length.

Welcoming Sawyer home is his brother Thor, 2.

Grandparents are Jim and Arliss Notch of Albany and Mary and the late Alvin Hoppe of Melrose. Great-grandparent is Agatha Kunstleben of New Munich.

Peter and Marilyn Heidgerken celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 28, 2011 with family and friends.

Peter and Marilyn were married Aug. 26, 1961 at Sacred Heart Church in Freeport.

Janelle and Scott Schlangen of Albany are proud to announce the birth of their son born August 27, 2011 at the Albany Area Hospital & Medical Center.

Harvey Mackay continued from page 2 Never fight a battle just so you can say you won. You won’t be perceived as a winner, you’ll be labeled a bully.

• Accept that some things are just beyond your control. As competitive as I am, I have come to realize that I can’t have my way in everything.

A Native American grandfather was talking to his grandson about how he felt. He said, “I feel as if I have two wolves fighting in my heart. One wolf is the vengeful, angry and tempermental.

The other wolf is loving and compassionate.”

The grandson asked him, “Which wolf will win the fight in your heart?”

The grandfather answered, “The one I feed.”

Mackay’s Moral: When a person’s temper gets the best of him, it brings out the worst in him.

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,” and the new book “We Got Fired!...And It’s the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Us.”

Truck & ATV Mud Fun Saturday, Sept. 17 $

10 Person • $10 Truck

Eagle Mountain, Burtrum Call 573-2222

Senior Dining Menus: September 5 - 9 Albany

MON., SEPT. 5: Closed.

TUE., SEPT. 6: Hamburger, bun, baked beans, coleslaw, peaches.

WED., SEPT. 7: Roasted turkey, whipped potatoes, gravy, creamed corn, sweet potato pie.

THUR., SEPT. 8: Swedish meatballs, parsley potatoes, trio vegetables, frosted cake.

FRI., SEPT. 9: Roasted chicken, whipped potatoes, gravy, dilled carrots, dinner roll, sherbet. ~ The Lighter Side Menu ~ MON., SEPT. 5: Closed.

TUE., SEPT. 6: Sweet/sour pork, rice, mandarin oranges, peaches.

WED., SEPT. 7: Stuffed green pepper, fruit, dinner roll, sweet potato pie.

THUR., SEPT. 8: Ham/cheese sub,

Browen’s Country Market Prices good Aug. 30-Sept. 10

Custom Floral Arrangements Prior notice appreciated.

Call Chris at 320-267-1342 Great selection of greeting cards Including “Leanin Tree” $1.49 ea.

Your Wedding Headquarters • Tux Rental • Flowers & Corsages • Wedding Packages Available

Meat

Fresh Ground Beef Chuck, Steaks, Beef Roast, Pork Loin & More at Everyday Low Prices!

Thin Sliced Bacon 12 oz. $3.39 Beef Skin On Wieners 28 oz. $6.19 Farmland Kielbasa $5.09 Oscar Meyer Bologna $2.15 Farmland Sliced Bologna 8 oz. $1.29 Dairy Orange Juice 1/2 gal. $2.99 Cottage Cheese 22 oz. $3.99 Cass Clay Asst. Dips $1.99 Frozen Kemps Ice Cream Bars 12 ct. $2.25 Jacks Pizza 16.5 oz. $4.09 Westpac Vegetables 16 oz. $1.89 Green Peak Chicken Breast 3 lbs. $6.59 Grocery Sugar Free Kool-Aid 4 ct. $2.99 Arizona Green Tea 34 oz. $1.99 Canoe Wild Rice 15 oz. $2.79 Our Family Quick Oats $2.99 Kraft Easy Cheese 6 ct. $4.49 Van Camps Pork and Beans 15 oz. 99¢ Pace Picante Sauce 16 oz. $2.99 Ortega Taco Kit 10 oz.-15.2 oz. $3.25 Our Family Taco Seasoning 1.25 oz. 69¢

vegetable soup, fruit sauce, frosted cake.

FRI., SEPT. 9: Cheese seafood penne pasta, broccoli, sherbet. * Bread and skim milk served with each meal.

Albany: 320-845-4070

Grey Eagle & Upsala

MON., SEPT. 5: Closed.

TUE., SEPT. 6: BBQ chicken breast, potato salad, baked beans, dessert.

WED., SEPT. 7: Goulash, coleslaw, dinner roll, banana.

THUR., SEPT. 8: Pork roast, mashed potatoes, gravy, squash, Boston cream pie.

FRI., SEPT. 9: Beef stew, applesauce gelatin, corn bread, brownie. * Bread and skim milk served with each meal.

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

Grey Eagle, MN (320) 285-2600 We accept Visa/ MasterCard, EBT Card, Wic

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

Sun. 8 am-12 noon August shopper January Frequent FrequentWinner!!!

Shopper Winner JoAnn Heffron Carolyn Ilgen

BAKE SALE HERE! Labor Day Weekend Sept. 3-5 by St. John’s Lutheran Church

Have a Safe & Wonderful Labor Day!

Produce

Bolthouse Peeled Carrots 1 lb. $1.09 Dole Cole Slaw 14 oz. $1.29 Hamburger Onions 5 lb. $3.39 New Russet Potatoes 5 lb. $2.69 Our Family Peaches 29 oz. $1.99 Our Family Marshmallows 16 oz. $1.99 Jell-O Pudding 1.3-3.9 oz. $1.29 Hershey’s Chocolate Chips 11.5-12 oz. $2.89 Hershey Syrup 24 oz. $3.79 Nabisco Honey Maid 14 oz. $4.85 State Fair Grape Jelly 32 oz. $2.79 Gedney Dill Pickles 32 oz. $3.35 Our Family Assorted Cookies 32 oz. $3.19 Town House Crackers 16 oz. $3.19 Household/Pet Supplies Value Choice Foam Cups 51 ct. $1.39 Best Value Paper Towels 69¢ Hefty Sandwich Baggies 150 ct. $1.99 Friskies Seafood Sensation $1.99 Scott Toilet Roll 1000 sheet $1.09 Purina Moist and Meaty 72 oz. $7.25 Terro Fly Catchers 4 ct. $1.15

Manager Annie’s Corner Participate in the Grey Eagle Trivia & Win a FREE Pound of Hamburger

1. What is the name of

the notorious roadside tavern located about 1 1/2 miles east of the Rock Tavern (intersection of now Co. Rd 2 and 321st Ave --- The Foundation is still there, hidden By trees)? ____________________________________

2. How many Civil War veterans are buried in Lakeview Cemetery ?

____________________________________

3. Name:____________________________ 4: Phone #: __________________________

Last Month Question Winner Carolyn Ilgen

Answers: 1. Jim Severson 2. “If your hair isn’t becoming of you, you should be coming to Jim’s Barber shop.”

Frequent Shopper

• FREE Cass Clay Gallon of Milk or 5 Qt. Pail of Vanilla Ice Cream w/a filled card Ask for your card today!

Page 4 • Hometown News • Thursday, September 1, 2011

Helping Hands Outreach upcoming events

Obituary Katelyn Jo Fedor

The Mass of Christian Burial for Katelyn Jo Fedor was held on Tuesday, August 30 at Church of All Saints Catholic Church, formerly St. Mary’s, in Holdingford. Fr. David Maciej officiated, burial followed in the St. Hedwigs Cemetery. Katelyn was born and died Wednesday, August 24, 2011 at the St. Cloud Hospital.

She is survived by her parents, David and Amanda (Tichy) Fedor; her

grandparents; Donna and Bill Fedor, Holdingford; Dennis and Karleen Tichy, Browerville and great-grandparents, Joe and Delores Luke of Browerville. She is also survived by her aunts and uncles, Mike (LuAnne) Fedor, Big Lake; Curt Fedor, Holdingford; Amanda (Joe) Holsapple, Black Duck; Angela Safran, Sartell; Erin (John) Tracy, St. Paul; Andrew Tichy, Fargo; Luke Tichy, Bemidji; cousins, Skylar, Megan, Emma, Jillian and, Jack.

Kringen’s Korner - By Jon Kringen, LPGE Superintendent

Back-To-School-Tips: Next week (beginning Sept. 6th), almost one thousand students will head back to school; this week’s column will contain some tips for parents and students to get ready for the new school year. Four suggestions: 1. Routine and Sleep: One of the most important things for students to do is to start getting back into a routine for school. Adequate sleep and adjustment to a schedule is important. Summer time is (and should be) a time for young people to sleep in, play and just enjoy being a kid during the summer. Taking a couple of days before schools starts to get back to a routine of a regular time for bed and getting up in time for school can be very beneficial for students.

2. School Supplies: The recommended supplies for school should be ready by the first day. Students feel prepared and ready to go when their backpacks are ready and filled with their sup-

plies.

3. Open House: There will be opportunities for students and parents to meet with the teacher, check out the new classroom and get their desk or locker ready for the first day. Attendance at the Open House event is encouraged.

4. Dress: School is a time to learn and should not be considered a fashion contest. Please take a moment to review the school dress code and make sure that all students are in compliance. These rules were reviewed and approved by the School Board and are designed to create a positive educational atmosphere for students and employees.

Information on school supplies, open house date and times and the school dress code is available on the LPGE website. Best wishes for a successful school year!

THE JUNCTION

The Villard All School Reunion will be held Saturday, Sept. 10 at the Corral in Nelson.

Social hour will be from 5:30-6:30 p.m. followed by a dinner. The honored class is 1961.

For reservations, please call Anita Gerdes Kovar at 320-763-1610 or Margo Feirke Hoffman at 320-554-3702.

Villard All School Reunion

Convenience Store • Bait Open 7 days a week Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Cold Spring Bakery • Schaefer’s Meats Leanin’ Tree Gift Cards • DVDs

320-285-2484 • Grey Eagle

Flensburg Liquor “Open 7 days a week” • 320-632-9024

Save The Date: Happy Wednesday, Sept. 7 Hour Bologna Night 4-6 PM Serving a full menu & daily specials.

Sunday: Chicken Buffet

11 AM-2 PM • All you can eat $8.95

320-547-0050

302 Degraff, Swanville

Sundays - 7:30 PM KEY FOR CASH DRAWING $250 Jackpot Tuesdays 7:00 PM Sept. 6: $625 Blackout

Bingo

with 54 numbers or less

Mon.: Burgers $1.50 (5-9 PM) Wed.: Large 2 Topping Pizza $8.50 Thurs.: 5-9 PM Wing Night $3.25/lb.

Thur: BBQ Ribs $7.95 Fri: All You Can Eat Fish $7.95 Sat: 6 oz. Steak $7.95 Sun. Buffet from 9 AM-1 PM: Chicken, Ribs & Shrimp

through or have gone through what you are.

Sept. 28 at 11:00 a.m.: We end the month with the Mystery Lunch Bunch leaving the office for lunch and socializing. Plan on coming along, bring someone you haven’t seen for a while and catch up on what’s happening.

October 4 - November 8: We will be holding our “Powerful Tools for Caregivers” class. This is an educational program/support group, designed to provide you with the tools you need to take care of yourself. The classes consist of six, 2.5 hour class sessions held weekly on Tuesday evenings. For more info or to register contact Shari Streit at 320-746-9960. Anyone who is a caregiver is encouraged to attend.

Helping Hands Outreach would like to hear from you with any questions you may have. Sometimes you may have questions or simply would like someone to lend an ear. Whatever the reason, feel free to call or stop by. Our number is 320-746-9960.

Heart Center offers outpatient nicotine dependence program This five-week outpatient nicotine dependence program, led by experts from the Central Minnesota Heart Center at St. Cloud Hospital, is a group session with personalized treatment, a support group, medication therapy, relapse prevention and a self-help plan.

Sessions will run from 5:30-6:30 p.m. beginning Sept. 20, for five consecutive Tuesdays in the Heart Center’s third floor library. Deadline to register is Sept. 13.

Tobacco is the leading preventable cause of death accounting for approximately 443,000 deaths in the United States each year - one of every five deaths. People who use tobacco are at higher risk of stroke and heart attack.

According to the Center for Disease Control, an estimated 46 million people

smoke in the United States, which is 20.6 percent of adults 18 years and older. Of those, 23.5 percent are males and 17.9 percent are females.

Approximately 70 percent of smokers want to quit; 45 percent try to quit each year. The cigarette industry spent 12.5 billion in 2006 on advertising and promotions.

If you are interested in individual counseling or to register, call 320-2512700, ext. 57448.

Art Johnson Contruction Room Additions to full Home Construction

Licensed • Insured Bonded 320-285-5430 Grey Eagle, MN

Join Us Sunday, Sept. 4th in St. Rosa for the St. Rose of Lima Parish Fall Festival

Saturday Night

BBQ Ribs $8.50 Best Ribs Around!

Chicken & STARS Ham Dinner ALL SPORTS BAR & GRILL

Catered by All Stars Sports Bar & Grill

St. Rosa • 320-836-2154

• WEEKLY SPECIALS •

~ Evening Specials ~ Wed.: Italian Night Featuring Pizza & Pitcher of Pop $9.95

Sun. - Tues.: 6:30 am - 2:00 pm Wed. - Sat.: 6:30 am - 8:00 pm

September will be a busy month with the Helping Hands Outreach program.

Sept. 7 at 10:00 a.m.: Our monthly shopping trip to St. Cloud will leave the office. You may want to plan doctor appointments, groceries, or any other shopping you may want to do. Call to sign up ahead of time.

Sept. 15 at 2:00 p.m.: Community Luncheon at the Holdingford Legion.

Our speaker this month will be Linda Langer with information on “fall prevention.” We will also have Marilyn Brinkman with the History of Folklore.

This of course will be followed by a delicious lunch. This is open to anyone who would like to come, we just ask for a donation to cover the cost of the lunch.

Bring a friend and spend the afternoon with us.

Sept. 22 at 2:00 p.m.: Wellness and Caregiver Coach Shari Streit will hold a Caregiver Support Group at our office.

If you are caring for a loved one or recently lost someone this is an excellent time to share with others who are going

Family Restaurant

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

320-845-2168 Kitchen Restaurant Hours: Monday - Thursday: 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday & Sunday: 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.

MONDAY: VALUE MEAL $5.25 TUESDAY: CHICKEN FRY (All You Can Eat) 4:30 - 9 p.m. $6.99 • Senior Price $6.50 • Kids 8 & under: $3.50

WEDNESDAY: BBQ RIBS $8.99 (All You Can Eat) THURSDAY: SPAGHETTI $6.99 (All You Can Eat) FRIDAY: FISH FRY $7.25 (All You Can Eat) SATURDAY: 8 oz. Sirloin Steak & Shrimp $13.99 SUNDAY: 3 MEAT SMORGASBORD $7.99 FULL BEEF COMMERCIAL: $5.99 1/2 ORDER: $3.25

Three Private Meeting Rooms Available Handling Groups of 20-150

Call for Info & Reservations

Hometown News • Thursday, September 1, 2011 • Page 5

The Best Birthday Gift of My Life

touching his shoulder. Still we waited.

Nothing. So as instructed, we gave her the remedy again.

Bob said, “I bought you a stuffed lion for your birthday with Hershey’s Kisses in its arms.” Gracie, miserably weak now, tried to push her face under his chin to make him feel better. Our first dog did the same thing in her final moments 9 years ago, trying to sooth him through his tears although she was dying. I knew Bob was thinking of that now. He rubbed Gracie behind her ears.

“What if I never see her after today?”

He could barely talk. “When I went into Subway, I put the chocolate under the seat.”

“Stop, sweetheart,” I said softly.

“Please,” he whispered, looking up at the heavens. “Make my dog vomit.”

I looked through the sliding glass

By Saralee Perel On my last birthday, the phone rang. “The dog ate some Hershey’s Kisses,” my husband Bob, breathing rapidly, said from the car phone.

“Did you call

the vet?”

“Yes. It’s not just the chocolate. It’s the foil. We have to get it out of her right away.”

Soon Bob came through the door with Gracie, an adorable Golden Retriever-ish dog who usually has a big goofy grin. But today, she wouldn’t even look up at me or give me any licky-face kisses. Bob, clearly in agony, had a look on his face I hadn’t seen in 19 years.

As we rushed her out back Bob said, “I hate myself for letting this happen.”

I’d have given anything to take his anguish away and have it myself instead.

With a turkey baster, we administered the remedy by mouth that should make her throw up. I’d better not say more about the remedy. I think this should only come from a vet.

Then we waited.

Bob and Gracie are, let’s just say – lovers in (most) every sense of the word.

Each morning he hugs me for a second before I get out of bed. Then he lies on the bed with Gracie and they play sick “Who loves you more?” games that get really weird, if you ask me.

I stood by them in our woods. Gracie looked terribly nauseated. Swaying, she walked slowly with her head near the ground. Still nothing happened. We knew we had very little time. We were in frequent touch with the vet. If the remedy didn’t work, she told us, we’d have to get Gracie right in.

Bob began to cry. My heart broke, watching him kneel beside his close pal.

“I called her a bad dog,” he whispered, soothingly rubbing her back as he tried not to cry. Gracie, agitated, started licking his face. Whenever Bob is upset or crying, she tries to make him feel better. “She could die and I called her a bad dog.” Those words, we knew, seem to destroy her.

“You had to reprimand her,” I said,

door and saw my birthday table, covered with presents, with ribbons dangling from the lamp above. The scene was such a contrast to the angst in front of me.

And then, it was as if the entire Mormon Tabernacle Choir, wearing white robes, slowly and regally rose above the tree-lined horizon, and began to sing softly then escalate to a magnificent roar, “Hal-le-lu-jah . . . HAL-LE-LU-JAH.” The dog threw up, foil and all.

Bob and I cried with tremendous relief. Gracie, getting caught up in the moment, joined us in a 3 way wiggly hug.

I learned 2 things.

1. No matter how much you trust your dog, you can’t take chances.

2. Vomit is the best birthday present I ever had.

Award-winning columnist, Saralee Perel, can be reached at sperel@saraleeperel.com/ Please “Like” her new

Facebook Community Page: Saralee Perel Presents Gracie, My 4-Footed Coach.

The future of the Burtrum Post Office

By John Young Regional representatives of the United States Postal Service held a public meeting at the Burtrum Community Center on Wednesday, August 30th to gather community feedback on the possibility of the local post office closing it’s doors.

The post office in Burtrum has been a part of the community since the 1800s, serving nearly 500 homes in and around the Burtrum area. The rural postal routes covered by the Burtrum Post Office extends to within a few miles of the communities of Long Prairie, Grey Eagle, Upsala and Swanville. Of the local rural routes, the Burtrum Post Office covers one of the longest areas ranging from the Stearns County line on the south to about two miles north of Big Swan Lake on the north end (pink shaded area on the map - see page 7).

The Burtrum Post Office was flagged as a potential office to close due to the lack of man hours of mail han-

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dling available for the post master, along with this post office losing money.

Much of the work that small town postmasters did in the past has become automated and handled in the central hubs (in the St. Cloud area) and much more work has migrated to computer systems. The Post Office Headquarters has deemed the work load at the Burtrum Post Office to be about 2 hours per day, meaning they feel they are paying someone for an 8 hour day and wasting 6 hours of pay in a time of limited Post Office funding.

The Postal Service as a whole is also suffering from reduced mailing income in a large part due to the increased use of the internet to handle much of today’s mailing needs. Bills are paid online, taxes are e-filed, and online communication has replace much of the mail sent in previous generations. Estimates from the Postal Service suggest that they could save up to $631,000 over 10 years by closing the Burtrum facility.

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Marty Brumbaugh, Manager of Post Office Operations in the 56xxx zip codes, along with Sue Trocke, of the Holdingford Post Office fielded questions on the proposed discontinuance of the Burtrum Post Office.

The tentative plan would be for the local post office to close, and all mail duties would be transferred to the Grey Eagle Post Office. Residents on the Burtrum rural routes would still receive their mail in the same fashion and about the same time of day as they currently do. They would keep their 56318 zip code and Burtrum mailing address. The only difference rural delivery customers would notice would be the need to go into Grey Eagle if there was something that needed to be handled at the post office.

City of Burtrum residents who currently have a post office box would see the biggest change. Some ideas for the city customers include mail boxes at the end of driveways, Cluster box units to be installed outdoors and accessed by post office box customers with a key, or Post Office continued to pg 7

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Page 6 • Hometown News • Thursday, September 1, 2011

Community Snapshots

EMAIL US YOUR PHOTOS! • htnews@meltel.net

A new roof on the Grey Eagle City Hall. Photo by Lori Young.

Antique Roadshow to be held in Melrose

Tucker Hedin caught a 32 inch Northern that weighed 10 lbs. on Lake Pepin in Swanville. Photo submitted.

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Ever wonder if you have treasure or just trash? Our own local experts will give you a clue! St. Cloud antique and collectible specialists, David Seutter and Tom Thrush, will be available to inspect your antique treasure and give their opinions. If you’re a fan of PBS’ Antique Roadshow or the History Channel’s American Pickers, you are in for a treat.

The second of two Antique Treasure Roadshows will be held Monday, September 26, 2011, from 7-9:00 p.m., in the Basement of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Melrose, after the annual meeting of the Melrose Area Historical Society, a co-sponsor of the event with the Stearns History Museum.

Admission is a small donation or non-perishable food items for Melrose Area Food Shelves. We ask that participants bring one antique item per person.

Light refreshments will be served.

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August 30, 2011: Tim Ainali of Eagle Fabrication in the city of Grey Eagle reported that some time overnight someone entered onto the business property and stole a wire feed welder along with copper wire used to run the welder on his portable service truck. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Todd County Sheriff’s Office.

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Hometown News • Thursday, September 1, 2011 • Page 7

Post Office continued from page 5

Sue Trocke (left) and Marty Brumbugh (right) of the Postal Service fielded questions from about 30 Burtrum area residents at Wednesday night’s public meeting. Photo by John Young.

Minnesota Through The Lens:

Submitted by Ron Kuehne

To submit a nature photo for Minnesota Through The Lens, email it in it’s original (large) size to htnews@meltel.net. cility will stay open as is. About 1/3 of the post offices identified for possible closure are left open for business regardless of their income generating status.

There are 170 post offices in the region and only about 10 of them are profitable.

The Postal Service is under contract for lease of the Burtrum building until 2014.

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Burtrum Post Office covers one of the longest areas ranging from the Stearns County line on the south to about two miles north of Big Swan Lake on the north (pink shaded area). a VPO (Village Post Office). The VPO would be a set of post office boxes located in a partner local business. This partner business would also be able to sell stamps and do some basic post office services. Over the years the number of main street businesses in Burtrum has diminished, but the Post Office has identified 21 small businesses in the Burtrum area (some of which are home based businesses) and some might have the potential to be a VPO partner in the Burtrum area.

The closing of the Burtrum Post Office isn’t set in stone. The August 30th meeting was designed as a night for public comments which is one step in the process of closing a post office. Each step in the process takes time for reviewal and decisions by the Postal Service Headquarters. The whole process could

take up to 4 months before a post office of any sorts could be closed.

Currently, there is a summary posted of the financial and practical situation of the Burtrum Post Office at both the Grey Eagle and Burtrum Post Offices.

This summary needs to be posted for 60 days before the next action by the Postal Service Headquarters. During this time, they will be accepting customer feedback on the potential closing. After the 60 days, the Postal Service Headquarters will make a decision to close or leave the local facility open. An appeal process could happen with multiple 30 day waiting periods which could stretch the process through the entire 4 months.

In the end, there is a chance the fa-

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Page 8 • Hometown News • Thursday, September 1, 2011

Children’s Hospitals, Clinics of Minnesota and St. Cloud Hospital partnering to keep care closer to home for kids For more than 10 years, St. Cloud Hospital and Children’s have worked together to provide Pediatric Cancer and Hematology Services in St. Cloud.

This expanded partnership allows both organizations to build upon the success of this collaborative care model.

Already the partnership has helped St. Cloud Hospital form a Pediatric Sedation Program this past spring, and talks are underway to expand the relationship into the neurosciences as well as other clinical areas within the next year.

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More children in Central Minnesota needing pediatric specialty care for cancer and blood disorders will now be able to stay closer to home through the expanded partnership between St. Cloud Hospital and Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota.

The partnership will keep children closer to their family, doctor and home when possible, and provide a continuum of care to Children’s Minneapolis campus when specialized care is required.

The partnership gives St. Cloud Hospital expanded access to Children’s treatment guidelines, protocols and recommendations. Oncologists and hematologists from Children’s will also be more available at St. Cloud Hospital, scheduling outpatient visits several days each month.

“This partnership with Children’s

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Hometown News • Thursday, September 1, 2011 • Page 9

Local Municipality Minutes Melrose City July 21, 2011 The Melrose City Council met in a Regular Meeting on Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 6:00 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 Michael Brethorst, and Assistant City Administrator/Treasurer Karen Thostenson. Mayor Vogel presided thereat.

A motion was made by Mr. Christenson, seconded by Mr. Finken and unanimously carried to approve the agenda as amended.

Steve Kortenbusch was on hand for the open forum to request that the Council give consideration to establishing a dump site for residents to bring tree branches and limbs after a storm such as the recent one. He felt that it was expecting a lot of the local garbage hauler to pick up all this extra debris, plus many individuals were unable to get the limbs, etc. cut into the required lengths or to be able to dispose of the debris.

Mr. Kortenbusch also requested that the rules and ordinances regarding vehicles being parked on property as well as other nuisance violations, such as tall grass, be more consistently enforced. Police Chief John Jensen noted that according to the City’s ordinance, vehicles cannot be parked on the front lawn of property; however, he stated he would have all the officers to do some follow-up inspections and require cleanup of any nonconforming sites.

The following items were considered under the consent agenda: a) the minutes from the June 23 Regular Meeting b) list of bills in the amount of $385,694.91 c) list of investments for the month of June d) Payroll Semiannual Reports which include bi-weekly (employees), monthly (Ambulance Department), and quarterly (Council, Utilities Commission and Police Reserves) e) Ambulance Department Semiannual Report f) Fire Department Semiannual Report g) Police Reserve Department Semiannual Report h) 1) Resolution No. 2011-29, donation in the amount of $361.23 from the Melrose Fire Department Relief Association towards the ladder truck; 2) Resolution No. 2011-30, donation in the amount of $1,000 from the American Legion Post 101 towards the Tri-Cap bus service; 3) HYPERLINK “../../ Boards and Commissions/Council/ Agendas/2011Mtgs/July 21 Council Regular Meeting/4h(3) Resolution No.2011-33.tif”Resolution No. 2011-33, donation in the amount of $100 from Frances Monroe towards the Tri-Cap bus service; 4) Resolution No. 2011-34, donation in the

amount of $1,100 from the Melrose Lions toward the Riverfest Celebration; 5) Resolution No.2011-35, donation of $5,000 which is the final payment of the second installment of the 2009 pledge of $32,000 to be paid over three years from the Melrose Lions for playground equipment at the Melrose Lions and Jaycee Park.

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

The Council held a public hearing to consider the request of Maria DeLourdes Martinez of Martinez Meat and Grocery for an OnSale 3.2% Malt Liquor License and Wine License to be effective July 21, 2011. A public hearing is required because of City Code Chapter 113 Liquor Regulations which require a public hearing before granting a new license or transfer of a license.

The City Administrator presented the Affidavit of Publication of the hearing notice.

Maria DeLourdes Martinez was on hand to answer any questions the Council may have. There being no public input, the public hearing was closed.

The Council next held a public hearing to consider the request for a transfer of the On Sale & Off Sale Intoxicating Liquor Licenses from Melrose Place Pub, Inc. to LKMTA LLC. DBA Melrose Pub. A public hearing is required because of City Code Chapter 113 Liquor Regulations which requires a public hearing before granting a new license or transfer of a license.

The City Administrator presented the Affidavit of Publication of the hearing notice which was published in the Melrose Beacon on July 6, 2011.

Loren and Tim Albrecht were on hand to answer any questions the Council may have. There being no public input, the public hearing was closed.

The Council then held a public hearing on the recommendation of the Melrose Area Development Authority (MADA) to amend the City’s Business Subsidy Criteria Policy. A public hearing is required

by State Statute to make changes to the existing Policy. The City Administrator presented the Affidavit of Publication of the hearing notice which was published in the Melrose Beacon on July 6, 2011.

Community Development Director Gary Walz reported that governmental units such as the City of Melrose have been granted the authority through Minnesota Statutes, Sections 116J.993 through 116J.995, to grant subsidies to encourage and entice business developments within the City through incentives. Those governmental units desiring to provide such subsidies are required by Statute to formulate and adopt a business subsidy criteria policy. The City initially adopted a general Business Subsidy Criteria Policy on September 2, 1999

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and amended it on July 17, 2003.

MADA subsequently adopted the same policy on September 13, 1999 and amended it on June 23, 2003.

Both the City and MADA also adopted a Business Subsidy Criteria Policy for granting subsidies for the JOBZ Program on May 19, 2004 and May 24, 2004 respectively.

Consultant Traci Ryan of David Drown Associates recommended to MADA that the City again amend its Business Subsidy Criteria Policy as a result of the introduction of a number of different business assistance tools such as Tax Abatement which were not previously offered by the City as a development incentive. Also, modifications were made to the Revolving Loan Fund guidelines which are now incorporated into the Policy such as the need to utilize bank/financial institution participations with a lead lending institution to minimize loan closing costs and ongoing administration expenses. Under the amended Policy, all subsidies will receive final approval from the Council after a preliminary recommendation

by MADA. There being no public input, the public hearing was closed.

Police Chief John Jensen presented the Police Department’s June monthly report. He stated there were 268 calls for service during this month compared to 207 for the same time period in 2010. There have been a total of 1,644 calls in 2011, compared to 1,274 in 2010.

Mr. Finken requested the Police Department continue its enforcement of the noise ordinance.

City Attorney Scott Dymoke reported he has been working on the following projects for the City: 1.Abatement of the Peterson house nuisance; filed resolutions and affidavits of service with Court Administrator and a Notice of Lis Pendens with the County Auditor.

2.Researched records on Central Minnesota Credit Union (CMCU) property.

3.Work regarding proposed resolution approving special legislation and ordinance changing composition of Utilities Commission, as well as opinion on any conflict of interest.

4.Worked with City staff regarding preliminary discussions on CentraCare lease modifications.

5.The City had received notification prior to the meeting that the judge in the Judy Adams versus City of Melrose and Stearns County had dismissed the case and opened the way for the County to proceed with the demolition of 12 trailers in the Melrose Community LLC (formerly Rose Park).

The Assistant City Administrator/Treasurer presented the General Fund Financial Second Quarter Report. She noted that overall expenses were at 47% of total budget.

Revenues are typically below budget due to the City not receiving any Local Government Aid until July of each year, as well as only receiving a portion of the May tax settlement within the first half of the year. She

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The Council next gave consideration to a request for the Intoxicating Liquor License (License #2 – On Sale and Off Sale) issued to Melrose Place Pub Inc. DBA Melrose Place Pub to be transferred to LKMTA LLC DBA Melrose Pub effective July 21, 2011. A background investigation by the Melrose Police Department on Loren Albrecht has been completed and nothing was found to prevent the transfer of the licenses.

Minnesota law requires cities to obtain proof that all licensees provide workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. Also, the City must obtain licensees’ social security numbers and Minnesota and federal tax identification numbers for the Department of Revenue’s use. The documents have been received.

It was recommended that approval of the licenses should be contingent upon receipt of the necessary certificates of insurance as to dram shop and general liability.

A motion was made by Ms. Mayers, seconded by Mr. Klasen and unanimously carried to approve the transfer of the intoxicating liquor licenses to LKMTA LLC DBA Melrose Pub contingent upon receipt of the necessary certificates of insurance.

Ms. Mayers then introduced Resolution No. 2011-31, Resolution Adopting Business Subsidy Criteria Policy, which includes offering the Tax Abatement incentive and the revisions to the Revolving Loan Fund Program. These amendments had been discussed at the public hearing held earlier in the meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Finken with a roll call vote recorded as follows: For: Council Members Mayers, Finken, Christenson, Klasen and Mayor Vogel; Against: None. A copy of the resolution is on file in the City Administration Office.

A motion was made by Mr. Christenson, seconded by Ms.

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ers. Mr. Finken commended all the City departments for their quick and effective response to the storm issues.

Mr. Klasen inquired whether the City could use its generators as a marketing tool. Director Harren stated that the City does not have cold start generation, meaning it would take up to an hour or so for the generators to be on line, and it does not generally take Xcel, the City’s transmission provider, much more time than an hour or so to switch to another feeder. The City has 8 MW of generation and the peak usage is at about 19,000 MW. However, it was pointed out that having the generators is certainly a benefit to the Melrose community.

Consideration was given to the request for an On Sale 3.2% Malt Liquor License and Wine License

by Maria DeLourdes of Martinez Meat and Grocery effective July 21, 2011. A background investigation by the Melrose Police Department on Maria DeLourdes Martinez was completed and nothing was found to prevent the license from being issued.

Minnesota law requires cities to obtain proof that all licensees provide workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. Also, the City must obtain licensees’ social security numbers and Minnesota and federal tax identification numbers for the Department of Revenue’s use. The documents have been received.

It was recommended that approval of the license be contingent upon receipt of the necessary certificates of insurance as to dram shop and general liability.

A motion was made by Mr. Finken, seconded by Mr. Christenson and unanimously carried to approve the On Sale 3.2% Malt Liquor License and Wine License to Maria DeLourdes of Martinez Meat and Grocery contingent upon receipt of necessary certificates of insurance.

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felt that the budget is at about the level expected for this time of year.

Director Walz reported on the 2030 Comprehensive Plan Committee. He stated the Alternatives Phase has been completed and the project has entered the Draft Plan Phase, which includes drafting of the text for the eight chapters and is scheduled to be completed by late August 2011. During this period the Comprehensive Plan Committee will meet to review the draft sections. The sections will then be edited and presented to the Council in September.

Public Works Director John Harren reported that, on Sunday, July 10 at 8:35 p.m., Xcel transmission lost power due to a problem between Freeport and Albany caused by storm damage. At 9:35 p.m., the transmission line was restored. Between 8:35 p.m. and 9:35 p.m., all Melrose Public Utilities customers were without power.

Power was restored to Melrose Dairy Proteins (MDP) and JennieO Turkey Store (JOTS) at 9:35 p.m.

Proliant and customers on the east side of Melrose had power restored at 9:37 p.m. At 9:39 p.m., the Melrose hospital had power and at 9:45 p.m., customers south of I-94 had their power restored. Main Street had power back on at 9:48 p.m. and customers north of the river had power restored at 10:18 p.m.

A portion of the rural customers were back on line at 11:30 p.m. with the remaining rural customers having their power restored at 2:00 a.m. Those customers in the City of Melrose that had trees down on power lines were restored at 2:30 a.m. Director Harren stated that, at the request of the Sauk Centre Public Utilities, the Melrose Electrical Department was dispatched to Sauk Centre from 7:00 a.m. on Monday, July 11 and worked until 9:00 p.m. assisting the Sauk Centre Public Utilities and again on July 12 from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to help restore power to their custom-

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Page 10 • Hometown News • Thursday, September 1, 2011 Continued from Pg 9

Mayers and unanimously carried to adopt a proclamation proclaiming Tuesday, August 2, 2011 as “Night to Unite.” The residents of Melrose are invited to attend Night to Unite on Tuesday, August 2 from 5:30 -8:00 p.m. at the Sauk River Park.

Administrator Brethorst reported that the Minnesota Legislature in its 2011 session enacted the provisions of Laws of Minnesota 2011, Chapter 97, Section 33 which is a “special law” that allows the City of Melrose, by ordinance, to increase the membership of the City’s public utilities commission to a maximum of seven members.

He stated the ordinance may also provide for the terms of the commission members and the terms must be staggered, provide that residency within the city is not a qualification for serving on the commission, and permit one or more members of the city council to serve on the commission. However, the provisions of this legislative enactment requires that before this special law can be effective it must be approved by a majority vote of the City Council by resolution and be submitted to the Office of the Secretary of State along with the Certificate of Approval of Special Law. A motion was made by Mr. Klasen to adopt Resolution No. 2011-32, City of Melrose Approving Laws of Minnesota 2011, Chapter 97, Section 33. The motion was seconded by Mayor Vogel with a roll call vote recorded as follows: For: Council Member Klasen, Mayor Vogel, Members Finken, Mayers and Christenson; Against: None. A copy of the resolution is on file in the City Administration Office.

Administrator Brethorst then reported that, as directed by the Council at the June 23 meeting, staff worked with the City Attorney to draft the ordinance amending Melrose City Code Section 32.03 Defining the City of Melrose Public Utilities Commission as well as the resolution confirming the initial terms of the City of Melrose Public Utilities Commission. Administrator Brethorst requested the Council further discuss the parameters for Commission members. This language will then be incorporated into the final resolution and ordinance prior to adoption. He noted that it was staff’s recommendation to stay with past practice whereas members of the Commission must reside within the City limits.

Mr. Finken stated that he wished to stop the process and expense of expanding the Utilities Commission. He stated that local residents are not in favor of expanding the membership of the Utilities Commission and felt that it had worked for the past 104 years as a three-member board and should remain so. He also stated that some residents felt this was a political push. Ms. Mayers stated that she, too, had received multiple

calls and comments in opposition to expanding the membership. She felt that it would be better to hold off on this change until further research is done.

Mayor Vogel stated that he was in favor of a five-member Commission as this would present the opportunity to have more expertise and skills, and that the utilities has grown substantially from when the Utilities Commission was first formed. Mayor Vogel felt that some costly construction failures could have been avoided had there been more people involved in the decisions. Mr. Christenson stated that when the option was first presented to him, he felt that having two more individuals to the board would bring more expertise, but noted that his experiences has been that supervisory and department head staff provide recommendations and this is the info used for Utilities Commission decisions.

He noted that having two additional members would not change this practice. He also felt that the Commission relies on people in the supervisory and managerial areas to provide the Commission with the best information on which to base their decisions. Mr. Klasen felt that the minimal cost to add two members is offset by having two more individuals in on oversight and decision-making.

The City Attorney was asked what options the City Council has regarding this issue. Attorney Dymoke stated that the Council could take action tabling any decision on the Utilities Commission expansion, meaning it can be revisited by any Council at any time in the future.

A motion was made by Mr. Klasen and seconded by Ms. Mayers to table action on amending Melrose City Code Section 32.03 Defining the City of Melrose Public Utilities Commi.ssion. A roll call vote was recorded as follows: For: Council Members Klasen, Mayers, and Mayor Vogel; Against: Council Members Finken and Christenson Administrator Brethorst stated that Chapter 71, Section 71.19 (D) of the Melrose City Code allows for the City Council to limit the size and types of vehicles to be parked, hours of parking, and prescribed method of parking, in city-owned parking lots, provided that the limitations and restrictions are marked or sign-posted. Currently, none of the city-owned parking lots have restricted parking. He stated staff’s original recommendation was that signs be posted limiting the amount of time a vehicle may be parked in city-owned parking lots at a cost of about $25 per sign and the cost of a post if needed. However, after further research, it was determined to instead amend the ordinance regarding streets and parking and to allow no more than 72 hours of parking in City-owned parking lots.

The proposed ordinance amendment to be placed on a future Council meeting for consideration.

Kerzman Construction Co. Building • Remodeling • Additions Windows • Siding • Roofing

Public Works Director Harren reported that the window sills in the City Administration building have been replaced. However, during the replacement, it was discovered that several of the seals around the windows are leaking. Staff is obtaining quotes for sealing/caulking the windows. The project is estimated to exceed $3,000; therefore, as per City of Melrose purchasing policy, two quotes are being obtained. He stated that he is obtaining quotes to get the windows recaulked, new glazing, etc. as needed. This will be bid as an alternative. He stated that the Utilities Commission, at its July 11 meeting, had given approval for staff to proceed with the sealing, etc. at a cost of up to $10,000; however, with the resealing needed, the costs may be higher. It was agreed that staff obtain the required quotes and this item be placed on the Council’s August meeting for approval.

Administrator Brethorst requested the Council give consideration to hiring the firm of Abdo Eick & Meyers, LLP for the 2011 Audit of Utility funds. The quote approved for the 2010 audit had been $29,900 plus $250 for misc. expenses. Actual amount billed was $27,900. Abdo Eick & Meyers had submitted a three-year quote,

by Administrator Brethorst recommended that approval be given to entering into a two-year agreement.

Abdo Eick & Meyers is agreeable to this change. The costs are to be shared as follows:

2011 Audit 2012 Audit 43.7% General: $12,191 $12,453 2.3% - MADA $642 $656 4.0% - Ambulance $1,116 $1,140 7.5% - Water $2,093 $2,138 7.5% - Wastewater $2,093 $2,138 35.0% - Electric $9,765 $9,975 Total $27,900 $28,500 The cost to prepare and file the TIF reports each of the years is $2,000 which is the same as the past several years. This cost is reimbursed from each of the TIF Districts’ increment received.

The proposed cost to audit the Fire Relief Association and prepare and submit the necessary forms to the Office of the State Auditor is $3,400 and $3,470 respectively for the years of 2011 through 2012, and is paid from the Fire Department budget.

The Utilities Commission, at its July 11 meeting, took action entering into a two-year agreement with Abdo Eick & Meyers. A motion was made by Mr. Finken, seconded by Mr. Christenson and unanimously carried to approve entering into a two-year contract with Abdo Eick & Meyers for auditing services.

Administrator Brethorst reported that the Gas Franchise Agreement between CenterPoint Energy and the City of Melrose will expire on August 5, 2011. Staff has drafted and City Attorney Dymoke and CenterPoint Energy have reviewed the Ordinance Granting CenterPoint Energy a Nonexclusive Franchise to Construct, Operate, Repair, and Maintain Facilities and Equipment

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for the Transportation, Distribution, Manufacture and Sale of Gas Energy for Public and Private Use and to Use the Public Ways and Grounds of the City of Melrose, Stearns County, Minnesota, for Such Purpose; and Prescribing Certain Terms and Conditions Thereof.

Staff recommended the Council take action adopting Ordinance No. 7-21-2011, and approving the Official Title and Summary for publication.

Mr. Finken introduced a motion adopting Ordinance No. 7-212011, An Ordinance Granting CenterPoint Energy a Nonexclusive Franchise to Construct, Operate, Repair, and Maintain Facilities and Equipment for the Transportation, Distribution, Manufacture and Sale of Gas Energy for Public and Private Use and to Use the Public Ways and Grounds of the City of Melrose, Stearns County, Minnesota, for Such Purpose; and Prescribing Certain Terms and Conditions Thereof. The motion was seconded

by Ms. Mayers with a roll call vote recorded as follows: For: Council Members Finken, Mayers, Klasen, Christenson and Mayor Vogel; Against: None. A copy of the ordinance is on file in the City Administration Office.

A motion was then made by Mr. Christenson to approve the Official Title and Summary of Ordinance No. 07-21-2011. The motion was seconded by Mr. Klasen with a roll call vote recorded as follows: For: Council Members Christenson, Klasen, Mayers, Finken and Mayor Vogel; Against: None.

Mayor Vogel reported that a notice was sent by Streets/Parks Supervisor Mark Maus to the property owner at 210 1st Street SW requesting that the grass be cut. As per City Code 95.38, all property owners shall be responsible for the removal, cutting, or disposal and elimination of weeds, grasses, and rank vegetation or other uncontrolled plant growth on their property that, at the time of notice, is in excess of eight inches in height.

Staff recommended that the Council approve the destruction orders as it then becomes effective for the entire growing season, meaning that if at any time after the issuance of the notice a violation reoccurs, the City shall abate the weeds without further notification to the property owner. It should be noted that any unpaid grass cutting bills can, and will, be certified against the property prior to year-end. Mr. Klasen requested that a photo of the area in question be provided to the Council along with the agendas.

A motion was made by Ms. Mayers, seconded by Mr. Finken and unanimously carried to approve the destruction order for the property located at 210 1st Street SW. The City Administrator provided an update on the former Amoco Standard Station, currently

occupied by Benchmark Realty that was being considered for a possible trailhead. He noted that after research, it was determined that the City could create its own trailhead at the Memorial Park which is located near the Power Plant. The former Amoco building was sold to a private business.

Fire Relief Treasurer Wayne Senst presented the Schedule Form for Lump Sum Pension Plans for 2011 (Schedules I & II). This form includes the accrued liability for active and deferred members, and projection of assets. He stated that no additional City contribution beyond the budgeted amount of $3,700 is required. The Melrose Fire Relief Association is not requesting an increase in pension. The schedules must be submitted to the Council prior to August 1, and to the Office of the State Auditor after Council action.

A motion was made by Ms. Mayers and seconded by Mr. Christenson to approve Schedules I & II for 2011. A roll call vote was recorded as follows: For: Council Members Mayers, Christenson, Klasen and Mayor Vogel; Against: None; Abstain: Council Member Finken.

Director Harren reported that the City is aware of the maintenance issues of the Highland Trail due to the willows that are growing between the trail and the ditch.

He stated staff has drafted a letter which will be mailed to residents along the trail to provide an update on the City’s plan of action to resolve the issue, which is to cut the willows and then spray with an environmentally friendly aquatic spray to destroy the root system. A motion was made by Mr. Klasen, seconded by Ms. Mayers and unanimously carried to authorize sending the notification to the property owners and to proceed with the trail maintenance.

Administrator Brethorst presented information regarding residential building incentives. He stated that the Utilities Commission, at its July 11 meeting, approved the Residential New Construction Building Incentives as they pertain to the Utilities, which included free WAC and SAC charges, along with a utilities credit of $500 for a total incentive of $2,794. The City Council and MADA are being requested to contribute $500 each towards the cost of a residential building permit. Administrator Brethorst stated that staff is also working with the Melrose Chamber of Commerce to request participation from its membership. The proposed incentive program would be effective from August 1, 2011 through November 30, 2011 (120 days) and is limited to five incentives. A motion was made by Mr. Klasen, seconded by Ms. Mayers and unanimously carried to approve the General Fund

contributing a $500 credit towards a residential building permit under this incentive program.

Mayor Vogel stated that he had requested Dave Rodahl of the DNR to provide an update on the Sauk River weed issue. Mr. Rodahl stated that there is a lot of duckweed floating and coontail growing in the Sauk River. Mr. Rodahl suggested that the residents that live along the river work with an aquatic specialist from the DNR to determine what their options are.

Mayor Vogel stated he had requested that the establishment of a debris pile/burn pit be added to the agenda. He noted that the City no longer has an open dump site where trees, etc. can be brought, but felt that it could be a great benefit to the residents of the City to have an area to bring the debris (trees, limbs, branches, etc.). It was suggested that perhaps a temporary site could be established after a major storm with a set amount of time to allow residents to bring this debris to.

After further discussion, a motion was made by Mr. Christenson, seconded by Ms. Mayers and unanimously carried that the City Administrator, Public Works Director and Streets/Parks Supervisor be authorized to make the determination whether a site is needed after a storm and to set up the parameters at that time.

Administrator Brethorst reported that the City has not held a City-wide Open House for some years. He suggested that a weeklong event be scheduled with tours of the various facilities, etc. A potential time could be mid-October.

He suggested that a subcommittee be established to establish a budget and make recommendations to the Council on an open house.

A motion was made by Mr. Finken, seconded by Ms. Mayers and unanimously carried to authorize proceeding with a City-wide Open House, starting with a subcommittee.

The following informational items were discussed: a. 2011 CGMC Legislative Session Report. b. Public Utilities Commission’s June 13 Regular Meeting minutes. c. The Utilities Commission, at its July 11 meeting, approved the hiring of Kyle Rieland as a temporary Seasonal Maintenance Worker. d. The following are schools and/or conferences where registrations were made: 1) MCFOA Region III Conference, July 28 in Alexandria. Registration fee: $15 per person. Attending: Accounting Clerk Christy Berscheit and City Clerk Patti Haase.

A motion was made by Mr. Finken, seconded by Mr. Klasen and unanimously carried that the meeting be adjourned at 8:05 p.m.

Patricia Haase, City Clerk

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Hometown News • Thursday, September 1, 2011 • Page 11

GARAGE SALE: Lots of variety, some new merchandise, 28330 Cty. 2, Grey Eagle, North Little Birch Lake, Fri., Sept. 2: 10-?; Sat., Sept. 3: 8-?

GARAGE SALE: Sept. 3-5; 8 a.m.

CR. 19 and Tower Rd., Upsala. Summer tops, sweat shirts, jackets and a variety of stuff.

BAKE SALE: Labor Day Weekend, Sept. 3-5 at Browen’s Country Market

by St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Multi-Family Garage Sale Wed., Sept. 7 & Thurs., Sept. 8: 7 am-6 pm; Fri., Sept. 9: 7 am-5 pm

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2705 50th Ave., Upsala (1 mile east of school on Cty. Rd. 21 & 1/4 mile south on 50th Ave. - Watch For Signs!)

Clothing (kids-adult), Household Items, Knick Knacks, Some Baby Items, Seasonal Items, Play Station 2 Games, Computer Desks, Exercise Bike, Treadmill, Lawn Boy Push Mower, & Lots of Other Misc.

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Man struggles to keep his body in shape, but his soul goes to pot. He’s drained all the time.

So he goes on a drink and drug routine. But the cure is worse than the disease. For him life isn’t worth the candle.

But there’s a better way. Life begins with Christ. He says, “I am come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

Have Christ, and you’ll have life!

FIREWOOD FOR SALE · 100 cords, 2 year dry, White Birch, $250/cord (Discount on 20 cords or more, $220/cord if paid up front in full) · 50 cords, Basswood, $175/cord (Discount on 20 cords or more, $150/cord if paid up front in full) · 300 cords, oak, $200/cord Call Steve at Baum’s Firewood for more info:

Office • 320-285-3565 Cell • 320-815-1863

A buddy out of Longview said he’d killed a mosquito that was carrying a canteen.

A man in Lubbock said the chicken farmers were giving the chickens crushed ice to keep them from laying hard-boiled eggs.

In Lake Palestine, they caught a 20 lb catfish that had ticks on it!

But just this week, in Bryan, a fire hydrant was seen bribing a dog.

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East Village Townhome Glenwood: Gables Townhome Sauk Centre: Centre Crossing Townhome

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WANTED TO BUY: Good slaughter cows, big bulls, also lumpjaw, foundered, lame steers, etc. (Pay with green.) Henry Kasper, 320-547-9913.

10/20P WANTED: Dead trees for firewood.

Call 320-412-0261.

FOR SALE: Sawdust, great for bedding young stock, horses. Call Brian, 320-3933551, location Sauk Rapids.

9/1P FOR SALE: 2 Berg barn cleaners, 1 clockwise, 1 counter-clock wise. Call 320-285-7941.

FOR SALE: Vermeer 605F baler, $1200; JI Case hay rake, $250; Farmall “A” tractor, $2200; Case 800 tractor, $2,000. Call 320-732-2272.

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APARTMENTS FOR RENT Quiet 1 & 2 Bedrooms Oak Grove Living in Meire Grove

GARAGE SALE: Thurs., Sept. 8, Fri. Sept. 9, 7:30am-5pm and Sat., Sept. 10, 7:30 am-2pm; furniture, clothing (mostly name brand woman & casual & dress) mens hats, (dress and sporty), mens clothes, household items, 5 yr old 36 inch GE Electric stove, black/stainless with all the goodies. Heat radiator, Free snowblower, antiques and collectables, books, puzzles and much more. A good free box. 18420 Emerald Dr., Burtrum.

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pans, kitchen step stool, head board, items good for college students. Call 320-987-3540.

FOR SALE: Nordic Track Walk-Fit 4000 treadmill, like new. Call 320-2853361.

FOR SALE: 7’x8’ utility trailer, $200; 3 yr. old quarter horse, stud, broke, gentle, $350; 5 acres livable. Call 320-4120261.

FOR SALE: Camping equipment; porta potty, new in box, $45; camping gas grill, $35; travel trailer hitch, parts. Call 320-761-7770.

FOR SALE: 9x16 kicker hayrack; Pro Form ellipical, used less than 6 months; Sportcraft treadmill. Call 320-836-2577.

FOR SALE: Fridge 25 cu. ft., white side by side, like new, $500. Call 320732-3399.9/8 FOR SALE: 1999 Coachman 5th wheel camper, 23.7, 1 slide, boat hitch, excellent shape. Call 320-732-2874.

FOR SALE: 151 acres, no buildings, 7 miles west Long Prairie, 3 miles from Lake Osakis; $166,000. Call 320-7320995 or 320-732-9300.

FOR SALE: Chicks, chickens, geese, guineas, ducks, turkeys & mixed breed billy. Call for prices. Great pets! 320836-2429.

FOR SALE: Firewood, cut, split, dry, also boiler wood, $100 cord. Call 320845-2043, leave message. tfn FOR SALE: 3x3x8’ square grass hay, 4’x5’ rounds, net wrapped, stored inside, also corn and wheat straw, delivery available. Call 320-761-0734. tfn

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FOR SALE: By owner, Big Birch FOR SALE: Sofa, love seat, 2 chairs, #30928 south shore. Call 615-604-3814.

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____________ 2____________ 3____________ 4____________ 5_________ 6_____________7____________ 8____________ 9___________ 10_________ 11____________ 12___________ 13___________ 14____________ 15_________ 16____________ 17___________ 18___________ 19____________ 20_________ $.25___________ $.50___________ $.75___________ $1.00_________ $1.25_________ $1.50__________ $1.75___________ $2.00__________ $2.25_________ $2.50_________ $2.75_________ $3.00_________ $3.25_________ Did you remember your phone number?

1

Email to: htnews@meltel.net or Mail to: Hometown News 29442 120th St., Grey Eagle, MN 56336

Page 12 • Hometown News • Thursday, September 1, 2011

St. Rose of Lima, St. Rosa 2011 Annual

On Beautiful Shaded Grounds St. Rosa, MN

Sunday, September 4, 2011

10:00 a.m. Outdoor Polka Mass

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