Photo by Judy VanHeel.
Hometown News
29442 120th St. Grey Eagle, MN 56336 320-285-2323
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It’s not what you know, it’s how you use it -By
MONDAYS • 5 PM
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A little girl came home from her first day in school and proudly exclaimed, “Mom, I was the brightest one in my class today!”
“That’s great, Janie,” her mother said, “but tell me how it happened.”
“Well,” Janie replied, “the teacher told each one of us to draw a picture on the blackboard, and then the others were to guess what the picture was. Mine was the only one no one could guess – but I knew exactly what it was all the time.”
Ah, the confidence of youth. But adults know that knowledge works best when it is shared.
The world’s store of knowledge is growing at an ever-increasing rate of speed, partly because more people are working to find more answers than ever before and partly because we have better means for learning than ever before, such as the internet.
Knowledge is considered to be such a valuable asset in today’s society that its importance in creating a future has been summed up in the long-time motto of the United Negro College Fund: “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”
Knowledge is absolutely critical in business, especially when it comes to decisionmaking and innovation. In my experience, having a deep well of knowledge allows business leaders to make informed decisions
that can steer their companies towards success and away from potential pitfalls.
American statesman Benjamin Franklin said, “An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.”
When it comes to decision making, knowledge about the market, competitors and internal operations helps leaders assess risks accurately and make decisions that mitigate potential negative impacts. Understanding industry trends and consumer behavior allows for the development of strategic plans that are forward-thinking and adaptable.
Knowing where to invest in terms of time, money and human resources can make or break a business. Knowledge helps prioritize these investments for maximum benefit.
In innovation, identifying opportunities is crucial. A thorough understanding of the market can reveal gaps and opportunities for innovation that can set a business apart. Knowledge of the latest technologies and customer preferences is crucial for developing new products or services that meet and exceed expectations.
Always keep a close eye on your competitors. What are they doing well? Where are they falling short? Use this information to find your competitive edge. Conduct thorough research to understand market demands, customer needs and preferences. This can include surveys, focus groups and analysis of consumer data.
Use customer insights to tailor your products or services to better meet the needs of your target audience. Align your marketing strategies with the preferences and behaviors of your customers. Personalize your communications and offers.
In a rapidly changing world, businesses must adapt to survive. Knowledge about
Harvey Mackay
emerging trends and technologies enables a business to pivot quickly and stay relevant.
In every aspect of business, from the way we interact with customers to the way we manage our teams, knowledge is the foundation upon which we build success. It is not just about having information; it is about having the right information and knowing how to use it effectively.
American businessman Warren Buffett said, “The best investment you can make is an investment in yourself … The more you learn, the more you’ll earn.”
In my own career, I have seen the power of knowledge firsthand. By staying informed and continuously learning, I have been able to make strategic decisions that have kept my businesses agile and competitive. Knowledge has also been the key to fostering a culture of innovation, where new ideas are encouraged and nurtured.
In the world of business, knowledge
Upcoming Events
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
• Albany Farmers Market from 3-6 p.m. at the Miller Carlin parking lot.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
• Holy Family School Fall Festival from 3-9 p.m., Albany.
• 18th Annual Hog Roast from 4:30-7 p.m. at the Grey Eagle United Methodist Church. See ad on page 3.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
• Albany Legion Post 482 Smorgasbord Breakfast from 8 a.m.-noon at Church of Seven Dolors Parish Hall, Albany. See ad on page 3.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1
• Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting at 2 p.m. at CentraCare West Campus Board Room, Long Prairie.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2
• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle. See ad on page 5.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3
• Fluff-N-Puff Pillow Cleaning Service from 7 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Upsala Area Community Center. See ad on page 7.
• Fluff-N-Puff Pillow Cleaning Service from 2-6 p.m. at the Holdingford City Center. See ad on page 7.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5
• St. John’s Catholic Church 40th Annual Craft Fair from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Swanville School. See ad on page 6.
• 128th Annual Burtrum Bean Bake from 4:30-8 p.m. at the Burtrum Community Center. See ad on page 3.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6
• St. Leo Court #786, Catholic Order of Foresters Matching Fund Breakfast from
8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church basement, New Munich.
• A Comic Mystery Dinner Theatre doors open at 4:30 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Albany. See ad on page 2.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12
• Public Square Rosary at Noon at St. Mary’s Church, Upsala.
• 49th Annual Meatball Supper from 4:307 p.m. at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Grey Eagle.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13
• 16th Annual Spud Fest from 4:30-7 p.m. at Gethsemane Church, Upsala. ALBANY SENIORS
• Meets 1st Tuesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at the Albany Community Center. ALBANY TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 4th Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Albany City Hall.
• Planning Commission meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Albany City Hall.
BURNHAMVILLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Burtrum City Hall.
BURTRUM CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
FEET FIRST CLINIC
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Holdingford City Hall.
FOOD DISTRIBUTION
• Ruby’s Pantry Food Distribution 1st Saturday of the Month from 10-11 a.m. at River of Live Church, Sauk Centre.
FREEPORT CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
FREEPORT SENIOR MEETING
• Meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at
1:30 p.m. with cards/Bingo/coffee/dessert.
GREY EAGLE CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 1st Monday of the month at 8 p.m.
MELROSE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 1st Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the town hall.
MELROSE VFW #7050 POST/AUX.
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion Clubrooms.
MELROSE LEGION #101 POST/AUX.
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion. (Aux. Sept.-May.)
STEARNS CO. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
• Meets at 7 p.m. on the 2nd Monday of the month at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Albany.
SUNSHINE CLUB
• Meets every Monday, weigh in starts at 8; meeting at 8:30 a.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle.
ST. ROSA CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 3rd Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Community Park building.
SWANVILLE CITY COUNCIL
• 1st Tuesday after the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
SWANVILLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 8:30 p.m. at the Swanville Fire Hall.
UPSALA CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
Weekend Weather
“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne
Invasion
About 150 years ago, Central Minnesota was changing from a wooded habitat for animals to a human populated agricultural land. The woods were destroyed and the wildlife were killed for food, sport and personal, and crop protection. Soon there were no longer deer, moose, bear and the wild animals that needed them for food.
History shows us that this type of human activity caused entire civilizations to disappear, such as Easter Island and many of other Polinesian and Central American countries.
We were lucky to have far-sighted wildlife officials that created hunting seasons and eliminated market hunting. They also helped the agricultural communities to create areas that were set aside exclusively as animal habitat. The result is the return of most of the species to their original locations. Protection and habitat were the items needed to make this happen.
Today, some of the animals find that wooded habitat locations near the human population are quite acceptable. Firearms discharging in town is against the law. Edible plants and flowers from a human planted area taste better than weeds and swamp grass. Human bird feeders and garbage cans are more easily accessible than tearing apart rotted wood to find some worms and grubs. Corn, soybean and alfalfa plants are tasty,
nutritious and easily accessible. In some cases, it almost seems that they have become somewhat domesticated.
It's commonplace to have someone comment that they saw deer in their yard last evening or there were deer in the ditch when they went to work. They may also tell about seeing a doe and her fawns on a regular basis and how they enjoyed seeing them growing up.
We now see photographs of a bear walking past the school during daytime hours. We have others that have taken down the bird feeder, because they were constantly being wrecked by bears. Deer have also learned to stand on their hind legs to reach high bird feeders to lick out the seeds.
Stories, such as, I just sat down to have my morning coffee, raised the shade, and was surprised by two bears outside my window. Another city resident got up in the morning and looked out the window to see a cougar crossing his yard. Wolves and bobcats are appearing while driving on the road. Moose are moving into our area due to food and habitat.
The reappearance of these wild animals brings a bit of excitement into our lives, but if you have young stock in the pasture, it could create a problem.
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
Have you ever found yourself overwhelmed with life “stuff”? That’s the best word I could come up with. According to Matthew 6, talking about worries in your life, he says things like “don’t worry about your life, or what you will eat or about your body, or what you will wear… Is not life more important than food and the body more important than clothes?” I think the word “stuff” works well for all the things that we end up worrying about in our lives.
My encouragement for you today is to put God first in your entire life! Matthew 6:31-34 says, “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and
all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
What do you worry about? How about health issues, money or economy, personality conflicts and so much more “stuff”. All these things can get in the way of your joy. These things rob you of a full life! Matthew 6:27 says “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”
Proverbs has so much practical help for in this area of our lives. Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Robert L. Hens
Robert L. Hens, age 70 of Melrose, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, after a short battle with cancer, on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, September 23 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with Rev. Mark Botzet officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.
Robert Hens was born on March 28, 1954 in Sauk Centre, Minnesota to Richard and Florentine (Michels) Hens. He was united in marriage to Joyce Hollenkamp on June 18, 1974 at St. Pius V in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Robert worked at Kraft and Land O’ Lakes in Melrose for 32 years. For Robert, family was everything. The home was always open for anyone at any time. Robert enjoyed spending time with his family, from the small gatherings to the special occasions, where there would be at least 20 or more people gathered at any given time. Many weekends were spent there, as the grandchildren would love to go to grandpa’s house where there was a four-wheeler ride for the younger kids or a game of dice or cards for the older children. Robert could fix anything, and we brought our projects and cars to him to fix or seek advice.
Robert is survived by his wife, Joyce; children, Angela Klasen, Mary (Jason) Lachermeier, Cynthia Adams, Amanda Tschida, John Hens (Jenni), Stephanie Hens (Codie), and Thomas (Ali) Hens; grandchildren, Alisha, Eric, Shannon, Nicholas, Jamie, Krista, Jenna, Logan, Brianna, Kaine, Dylan, Paige, Alexis, Katlynn, Brandon, Gabrielle, Kyle, Mira, Nadia, Ivan, Oliver, and Brinley; great-grandchild, Ava; brothers and sisters, Dale Hens, Diane Hens (Kevin), and Karen (Ron) Altendahl; and brother and sister-in-law, Gene and Theresa Hollenkamp.
Robert was preceded in death by Heavenly Baby, his parents, Richard and Florentine; father and mother-in-law, LuVerne and Lucille Hollenkamp; sister-in-law, "Nitch".
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
Louise A. Terwey
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, September 23, 2024 at 11:00 AM at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Avon for Louise A. Terwey, 93, who passed away at home on Thursday, September 19, 2024. Louise was born November 14, 1930 in Holdingford, MN to Michael and Frances (Patrias) Tschida. She married Harvey B. Terwey on August 7, 1954 at St. Mary’s Church in Holdingford, MN.
Louise is survived by her children Harvey Jr. (Peggy Thielman), Michelle (Mark Caspers), Lisa (Ambrose Gertken Jr.) and Patrice (Fezzy Hanauer), 10 grandchildren, 12 7/8 great grandchildren and brothers Jerome, Robert and Michael Tschida.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Harvey, her son Michael, grandson Bobby Gertken and siblings Ceil, Eugene, Valeria, Loretta, Rita, Leona, Leo, Bernadine and Doris.
Betty Lou Goebel
Betty Lou Goebel passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Friday, September 20 at Cura Care Center in Melrose, Minnesota at the age of 84 years old. Betty Lou passed away 3 days shy of 66 years in marriage to Victor. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, September 24 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Entombment was in the parish cemetery.
Elizabeth Dolores Bussmann was born September 12, 1940 in Millwood Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to Bernard and Elizabeth (Wenker) Bussmann. On September 23, 1958, she was united in marriage to Victor Goebel at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Melrose. Betty Lou and Victor started farming together on the Goebel Family Farm north of Freeport and then purchased their own farm south of Freeport as a couple in 1962. They continued farming there, raising 10 children until retiring in 1990. Betty Lou and Victor moved to Freeport and then worked part-time cleaning the Community Center after special events. Betty Lou also did private cleaning for many years. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich, Christian Mothers, and Catholic Order of Foresters. After moving to Freeport, she became a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Freeport. She was also part of the local Mission group and loved playing cards. Betty Lou was very involved with her children in the Pelican Peak 4-H Club for many years. She enjoyed gardening, bowling, square dancing, and traveling, especially casino bus trips and mystery tours. She also enjoyed quilt-making. Betty Lou made quilts and blankets for the children and grandchildren.
Survivors include her husband, Victor; children, Kevin (Sharon) Goebel of Freeport, Glen (Lori) Goebel of Park Rapids, Lyle (Teri) Goebel of Minnetonka, Don (Sarah) Goebel of Cloquet, Judy (Karl) Klaphake of Melrose, Jean (Bill) Kollodge of Rice, Todd (Michelle) Goebel of Swanville, Dennis (Lisa) Goebel of Rockville, Denise Goebel of Freeport, and Loren (Carrie) Goebel of Freeport; 29 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; siblings, Doris Peterson of Melrose and Bernard Jr (Tillie) Bussmann of Melrose; and sister-in-law, Darlene Bussmann of Melrose.
Betty Lou was preceded in death by her parents, Bernard & Elizabeth Bussmann; sisters and brother, Anna Mae, Cecilia, Bernice, Lorraine, Rita, and Edward; and granddaughter, Amy.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Freeport.
Wilma L. Hedin
Wilma L. Hedin, 85 year old resident of Swanville, MN, passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at her residence. A Funeral Service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Swanville, MN, with a visitation one hour prior to the service at church.
Burial will be at Bearhead Cemetery in Pillsbury, MN. Caring for Wilma and her family is LeMieur Funeral Home in Swanville.
Wilma Louise Hartwig was born on March 16, 1939 in Little Falls, MN to the late William and Emma (Strom) Hartwig. She grew up on a farm outside of Swanville, graduating from Swanville High School in 1957. Wilma was united in marriage to Eugene Hedin on May 28, 1958 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Swanville. They purchased a farm close to her parents in Swanville, where they raised their 4 children. Wilma was a hard worker her whole life, often taking care of the farm and the kids while Gene worked in the Twin Cities. In addition to the farm work, she worked various jobs over the years. After retiring from a long tenure as head cook for the Swanville Schools, she went to work at Larson Boats. She also spent many years raising chickens on the farm. Wilma was very proud of her family and especially enjoyed the time spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. For 40 years, she put together a Sunday dinner for whoever showed up, always with more than enough food for everyone. More often than not, a few games of SkipBo were played. Wilma was active in her church, helping wherever she was needed. She was a member of the St. Peter’s quilting group and the Dove Homemakers. She was a good friend to many. Those who came by for a visit were often sent home with goodies. Her homemade caramels were a special treat that will not soon be forgotten. Wilma was well-loved and will be dearly missed by all.
Wilma is survived by her son, Allen Hedin and daughter, Kathy Van Norman, both of Swanville; son-in-law, Brian Menke of Royalton, MN; unofficially adopted son, Mark Proctor of Swanville; sisters, Elaine Johnson of Alexandria, MN, and Gladys (John) Schultz of Long Prairie, MN; 8 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Emma Hartwig; husband, Eugene Hedin; daughter, Sandy Menke; son, Calvin Hedin; grandson, Matthew Hedin; and brother, Milo Hartwig.
Elizabeth Mae Melaas
Elizabeth Mae Melaas was born and received her angel wings on September 16, 2024, at the St. Cloud Hospital. Services will be 11:00 AM, Thursday, October 3, at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Upsala with burial to follow at the Immaculate Conception Parish Cemetery in St. Anna.
Elizabeth leaves behind her loving parents, Geoffery and Kimberly (Panek) Melaas, and her sister; Amelia Melaas, Burtrum; her grandparents, John and Rita Panek, Bowlus, Steve and Christine Melaas, Fergus Falls; greatgrandparents, Mary Panek, St. Anna; Marilyn Melaas, Elbow Lake, and Theresa Rudnik, many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Donna Faye Bartkowicz
Donna Faye Bartkowicz, 93 year old resident of Bowlus, passed away at her home. A graveside service will be held on Friday, October 4 at 1 PM at Riverside Cemetery in Ronneby, MN.
Donna Faye (Arenkiel) Bartkowicz was born July 11, 1931 in Maywood Township, Benton County, Minnesota to the late Ingvard and Anna (Lippert) Arenkiel. She grew up in the Foley area with her siblings. She attended and graduated from Foley High School. After high school she moved and worked in the Metro area with her niece/best friend, Bertie. She met her future husband, Richard while working at Munsingwear. She was united in marriage to Richard Bartkowicz and they were blessed with eight children, Bruce, Scott, Jacquelyn, Dayna, Michael, Randy, William, and the late Garrett. The couple later divorced but had lived in Bowlus, MN since the early 1950's with their children. She worked at Golden N Plump for many years, retiring once then returning. Donna and her family enjoyed getting together on the weekends, playing cards and swimming at Little Rock Lake. Donna enjoyed fixing and tinkering with things on the farm, planting flowers, caring for animals. Gardening was one of her passions from her large pickle patch in the early years to the "throwing tomatoes" in her later years. She enjoyed attending auctions and spending time with her family. Donna will be remembered for her wonderful homemade cheesecake, stuffing and holiday meals with family. She will be remembered and loved by all who knew her!
Left to cherish her memory are her children, Bruce (Lisa) Bartkowicz of Swanville, Scott (Jeanne) Bartkowicz of Swanville, Michael Bartkowicz of Bowlus, Randy (Angie) Bartkowicz of Bowlus, Billy (Missy) Bartkowicz of Staples, Jackie (Dale) Barthel of Bowlus, Dayna Bartkowicz of Alexandria and her 31 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, son, Garrett Bartkowicz, granddaughters, Kya Bartkowicz and Miranda Bartkowicz and siblings Edna and Theodore Meline, Albert Arenkiel, Lillian and Gunnard Forschen, Edward and Cecil Arenkiel, Ida and Walter Heatherington, Leyella and John Hiland, Irvin Arenkiel, Harvey and Charlotte Arenkiel, Daro and Viv Arenkiel, Anna and Lloyd Rudnitski, Nina and Herbet Beehler, Irene and Virgil Johnson, and Walter Arenkiel.
Cedar Lake Area
Upsala,
90th Birthday Open House
Marlene Reller
An open house will be held for Marlene Reller for her 90th birthday on Sunday, October 6 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Greenwald Pub. A light lunch will be served.
Harvey Mackay continued from pg 2 isn’t just power – it is profit, progress and the pathway to innovation.
The history class was studying the Revolutionary battle of Saratoga, which was probably lost because General William Howe chose to remain in Philadelphia. The teacher then asked the class to explain this major British defeat.
“Lack of no Howe,” answered a voice in the back of the room.
Don’t get caught in that same trap. If you have the “know-how” that will matter, go to where the action is. Sharing your knowledge with those around you makes everyone smarter. Be humble and remember the words of comedian Bill Murray: “Knowledge is like underwear. It is useful to have it, but not necessary to show it off.”
Because no one likes a smarty-pants.
Mackay’s Moral: Knowledge is the rocket fuel for business growth, but only if you ignite it with action.
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.”
Public Input Wanted as Todd County Updates Hazard Mitigation Plan
Todd County residents, community leaders, business owners, area agencies and organizations now have an opportunity to share how severe weather events impact their property and lives. There is also an opportunity to share their ideas on how to reduce local impacts in the future.
The Todd County Office of Emergency Management is working with U-Spatial at the University of Minnesota Duluth to update the county’s Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP). The plan assesses the natural hazards that pose risk to the county, such as tornadoes, straight line winds, ice storms, blizzards, wildfire, flooding, and extreme temperatures and identifies ways to minimize the damage of future events. As the county works to update the plan, it wants to hear from the public.
The Todd County HMP is a multi-jurisdictional plan that covers Todd County, including all cities and townships within the county. The Todd County HMP also incorporates the concerns and needs of school districts, watershed districts, and other related agencies, organizations, or businesses participating in the planning process. The plan will be updated by a planning team made up of representatives from county departments, local municipalities, and other key stakeholders. When completed, the plan will be submitted to the Minnesota Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for approval.
“Hazard mitigation planning is a central part of our emergency management program,” said Mike Wisniewski, Todd County Emergency Management Director. “Understanding the natural hazards that can cause serious impact to our communities and taking action to reduce or eliminate the impact of future disasters makes us more resilient. Hazard mitigation helps us to break the cycle of damage and repair caused by things like flooding, ice storms, and severe wind events that can damage property, stress economies, and threaten life safety in our county.”
Examples of hazard mitigation include:
• Conducting public outreach on severe weather awareness and preparedness
• Improving stormwater management sys-
Card of Thanks
all of you.
Gary and Joan Rademacher
tems to better handle high-rain events
• Removing existing buildings from flood or erosion prone hazard areas
• Increasing defensible space around homes in high-risk wildfire areas
• Constructing tornado safe rooms in vulnerable areas such as mobile home parks
• Burying overhead powerlines that may fail due to heavy snow, ice, or windstorms
Some mitigation activities may be eligible for future FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant funding.
Public input is an essential part of the plan update. As part of the planning process, Todd County is seeking feedback from residents and businesses to incorporate into the plan. Your input will be recorded and incorporated into the planning process:
• What are the natural hazards you feel pose the greatest risk to your community?
• Are there specific populations or assets in your community that you feel are more vulnerable to future storm events?
• What concerns do you have, and what sorts of actions do you feel would help to reduce damages of future hazard events in your community or the county as a whole?
Your feedback is wanted. Comments, concerns, or questions regarding natural disasters and your ideas for mitigation projects should be submitted to Todd County Emergency Management by phone, email, or by posting a comment via a social media posting of this article.
There will be additional opportunities for public feedback throughout the planning process. A draft of the plan will be made available for public review prior to submission of the plan to the State of Minnesota. Future news releases will be shared with the media to notify the public of these opportunities.
The Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000) requires counties to update their plan every 5 years to maintain eligibility for FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) grant programs.
Eagle-Burtrum Lions recently donated $1000 to the
FFA Club. The FFA Club members, advisor, and parents helped at the Tractor Pull in Grey Eagle. The
include
Advisor Curt Gjerstad, and Lion Linda Gohman.
For more information, contact Mike Wisniewski, Todd County Emergency Management Director at 320-533-4697 or email michael.wisniewski@co.todd.mn.us.
Grey
Long Prairie-Grey Eagle
Lions Club is proud to
this hardworking group in the list of friends. Pictured are Preston Wielenberg, Lily Stanley, Caylee Kuehne, Isabelle Otremba,
Sudoku is one of the most popular puzzle games of all time. The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9. As a logic puzzle, Sudoku is also an excellent brain game.
Dave Says -By Dave Ramsey
Dear Dave, I follow your advice and live on a budget, but it’s really hard to save up for a down payment on a house because property is so expensive on the West Coast. My family thinks I should buy a cheaper property back home, fix it up and flip it to get the extra money I need. How do you feel about this?
-Alan
Dear Alan,
When you take on this kind of work, you need to oversee what’s happening every step of the way. You’re working out details, keeping an eye on the crew and it’s all on you to make sure everything’s being done right. It’s not unusual for pros who flip houses to look at 100 or more properties to buy just one. It’s not an easy way to make money, and it’s definitely not something to consider doing from a distance. All that being said, can you guess what my answer’s going to be? Fixing and flipping properties in the area where you live is hard enough work. Trying to do it from hundreds of miles away would be a nightmare. There’s no way I’d sign on for something like this.
Keep working on your budget, and start saving as much money as you can. You might even consider getting a part-time job for a little while to bring in some extra cash for your house fund. But waiting and saving up is a lot
smarter than trying to fix and flip a house in another state.
-Dave
Dear Dave, I work for a construction company. The closer we get to winter, the more I think about work slowing and my income dropping. I’ve had couple of winters in the past where things were pretty lean. Do you think I should begin building an emergency fund for the slow times?
-Carl
Dear Carl,
I love that you’re thinking about the future. I also think it’s great that you’ve learned from past mistakes and are determined not to repeat those mistakes.
You’ve got a smart idea, but you’re going to have to get on your horse to make something happen for this winter. Also, you might want to think about calling it something other than an emergency fund. How about your “Offseason Fund”? You might think I’m being silly playing with the name, but hear me out. This sort of saving isn’t really for emergencies, is it? It’s a budget issue, because you’re planning and setting aside cash leading up to something you know is coming.
Remember, we’re not talking about some random amount of money. It’s an exact amount that you can budget for accordingly. This winter you may have to think about picking up a side job, depending on the weather and other circumstances. But after that, it’ll be a simple matter of planning ahead for the down time and setting aside something each month to see you through!
-Dave
* Dave Ramsey is a seven-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.
Ask The Motor Medics®
From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Dear Motor Medics,
I've got a Nissan Titan and it has a ticking noise in the engine. It has had this for about a year and it doesn't seem to get any louder, but it makes me nervous about taking it on trips far from home. When I have my engine oil changed my shop says it's just lifters and they probably are noisy because I tend to change my engine oil every 10k miles, I know, that's too long between changes. I recently put in an additive that cleans the engine oil system and the noise stopped for two weeks then came back. Should I try two cans at the same time?
-Carry in Hills, Minnesota
Dear Carry, NO! That's the best way we can answer that last question. Never use an additive in a way not directed by the manufacturer of said product or you risk permanent damage. Additives have their place and if used as directed sometimes can fix a problem and save you a ton of money, but they are also some of the most abused products out there. With your extended oil changes, you probably clogged up some oil passages and using the cleaner helped restore them. Most of those cleaners are meant to be installed, then the engine oil changed within a few minutes of running. If that works then you may be able to repeat every 1000k miles for a few months and you may save the engine.
-Take care, the Motor Medics
Dear Motor Medics,
Hey, what gives with the low tire pressure monitors? I am so sick of these things. It seems like every vehicle I drive has a low tire light on and even when I add the correct amount of air the light still stays on.
How do these things work and how can I shut the light off permanently so that I don't have to worry about it.
-Derik in Osage Beach, Missouri Dear Derik, Yikes! It's never any fun having a light come on and taunt you like that. Check Engine lights, ABS lights and Low Tire lights are some of the most annoying things on a car, but they all are there for a reason. They either are trying to save your life or the car’s life. In the case of a low tire light, it is the former. Low tire warning systems were made mandatory by the government for safety a while back due to so many accidents caused by tire failure from under inflation. The system uses pressure sensors mounted in the tire usually on the valve stem and they contain batteries and a transmitter to relay the pressure and tire temp to the vehicles computer where it determines if it is a safe pressure and either illuminates the warning lamp or not. The system can't be bypassed, and it would not be legal to do so. Get it diagnosed. Most shops can repair them at a reasonable price.
-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 • August 6, 2024
Public Hearing Meeting Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at 6:45 pm, held in the Swanville Center. Members present: Sandy Lange, Norm Carlson, Tony Maciej, John Dragseth and Jim Molitor. No residents present. The purpose of this Public Hearing was to hear input from residents about the proposed name changes to the avenue in the North Berkey 1st addition from DeGraff Avenue North to Meadow Avenue and the alley between 5th and 6th Streets to be named McRae Avenue. After discussion, all present were heard, the meeting was closed and the regular monthly meeting was opened.
Minutes of the Swanville City Council meeting held in the Swanville Center on Tuesday, August 6, 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, Ryan Odden and Lonny Hutchins.
Minutes of the Swanville City Council meeting Tuesday, July 2, 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 Jim Molitor to approve the treasurer’s report. All members voted in favor, motion carried.
City Engineer, Ryan Odden, presented the council with the bids which were received and reviewed on July 30, 2024 for the Water Storage Tank (2 bids), Water Meters (2 bids) and North Berkey 1st Addition work (8 bids). Letters of recommendation from Moore Engineering were presented as well. After discussion, Norm Carlson made a motion to award Eagle Construction Company, Inc, with contingent upon approval from USDA Rural Development, the Water System Improvements, New Water Storage & Pump Station contract in the amount of $1,811,800.00. Tony Maciej seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried. Next the bids were discussed and letter of recommendation read for the Citywide Water Meter Replacement Contract. After discussion, Tony Maciej made a motion to award Milbank Winwater Works Co., with the contingent upon approval from USDA Rural Development, the Citywide Water Meter Replacement in the amount of $81,181.21. John Dragseth seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried. The last bid and letter of recommendation were read for the North Berkey 1st Addition Water System Improvements. After discussion, Norm Carlson made a motion to award Land Pride Construction, LLC, with the contingent upon approval from USDA Rural Development, the North Berkey 1st Addition Water System Improvements in the amount of $2,774,553.20. Tony Maciej seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried. Odden stated that the projects could start as early as September.
Lots were discussed for the North Berkey 1st Addition. Price for square footage will be decided on at the next month meeting.
Mayor Lange presented to council Ordinance #24-0806 which will change the name of the avenue in the North Berkey 1st addition from DeGraff Avenue North to Meadow Avenue and the alley between 5th and 6th Streets to be named McRae Avenue. Norm Carlson made a motion to pass ordinance #24-0806 renaming the Avenue and alley. Tony Maciej seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.
Carter Loven was present to see if he and his wife could purchase a two-acre strip of land in the Industrial Park. It was decided to table until the next monthly meeting.
The new city website is up and running. If residents would like to see anything added or changed, they can contact Mayor Lange or Julie.
There are still opening for the Central MN Housing Project fix-up loans within the city of Swanville. At present there are openings for two Rental, four Commercial, and two Residential housing. An ad will be put in the Flyer.
The update on the lead service line inventory was given. The inventory of the lines has been submitted to the State and no word was received as of yet.
There was a water leak on 4th Street. Lonny called Maciej Construction to come out and dig up the line which leads to Calvin Peterson and Sandy Lange’s houses. After discussion, which Sandy abstained from, Tony Maciej made a motion to have each party pay a third of the bill including the city. Norm Carlson seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, Mayor Lange abstained. Motion carried. A bill will be sent to each land owner in the amount of $2900.00.
Mayor Lange gave a report on a program called Text My Gov. It is designed to communicate with residents by text when a need arises. After discussion, Norm Carlson made a motion to sign a 3-year contract with the company at $1500.00 a year. John Dragseth seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried. The money for the program will come out of the safety aid money the city received from the state.
A building permit was presented from Gifford Vincent to rebuild the two decks on his house. The front one will be 10’x10’ the back deck will be 8’x8’. Tony made a motion to approve the building permit for Vincent. John Dragseth seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.
The annual Swanville Rural Fire Association meeting will be August 27, 2024 at 8:00 pm.
The following claims were presented for payment. Members of the council were furnished with a listing. Jim Molitor made a motion to approve the claims. Tony Maciej seconded the motion. All members voted in favor, motion carried.
The next regular monthly meeting will be held Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 7:00 pm. in the Swanville Center. Meeting change because of Labor Day.
There being no further business, a motion was made by Tony Maciej and seconded by Norm Carlson to adjourn. All members voted in favor, motion carried. Meeting adjourned 9:30 pm.
Julie Hollermann, City Clerk/Treasurer
Grey Eagle Township • September 9, 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, Mike and Lori Lyon and Heather from Sourcewell.
Agenda Approval: A preliminary agenda was presented. Mike asked if there were additions to the agenda. Request was made to add Mike Lyons to the agenda. Alan made the motion to approve agenda with that addition. John made the second. All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Minutes: John made the motion
to accept the August 5, 2024 minutes. Alan made the second. All in favor. Motion passed.
Mike and Lori Lyons were present to ask for the Board’s permission to go to the county for a variance to have a 9 ft. retaining wall. They were told they needed the Township to sign off on it before coming to the County. John made the motion to sign off on the variance, Alan made the second, motion carried.
Heather from Sourcewell was present to provide the Township with information on ways to help the Township apply for funding. Sourcewell is a Service Cooperative that partners with education, government, and nonprofit agencies to boost student and community success, as well provide funding, training, and contracted services to help other public agencies do more with less. Heather explained they cannot provide funding help with roads.
Town Clerk’s Report: Clerk presented the claims list for August. Claims list included claims 3999-4011 for a total of $36,221.82. This included the second half of the fire contract. John made the motion to pay the claims. Alan made the second. All in favor. Motion carried.
Mail included a P&Z letter, Cannabis information, new ESST law changes and information on a grant for Townships that have wild parsnip or Common Tansy in their road ways.
The financial report was presented, John made the motion to approve the financial report, Alan made the second. All in favor. Motion carried. John made the motion to have the CD that is up for renewal moved to the money market account. Alan made the second, All in favor. Motin carried.
Road and Bridge Report: Tar project –should be completed this week and Erv will start with the shouldering. John had a call from contractor to add a small crown on the road with a slight increase in cost. Alan made the motion to approve that increase and John made the second. All in favor. Motion carried. John asked about a tree on 331st. After some discussion, John made a motion to authorize Scherping Tree Service to
take the tree down. Alan made the second. All in favor, motion carried. Breezy Drive – John did not get any calls back. Signs at the Beach and Boat access should be up soon. Angler Trail issue-10995 Angler Dr., John stated would need to set up a meeting with Stearns Elec and Arvig to see how the culvert could be placed, due to the number of wires in the roadway. 337th- has several rocks that need to come out and gravel needed, 140th near Luskey’s also needs some gravel.
Additional agenda item: Mary Ann attended the Emergency Management meeting in Long Prairie. This was for estimates to see if Todd County would qualify for State funds for the Aug. 3, 2024 storm.
Discussion on the AED- the Board felt that it may be a better option to purchase additional devices rather than commit to maintenance on a yearly basis. Mary Ann will send an email to Assoc. Property Owners.
Discussion on the need for a new front door, Alan will check into who could take care of this and what the cost will be. Alan made the motion for a new door and John made the second. All in favor. Motion carried.
Adjourn: Motion to adjourn by John second by Alan. All in favor. Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 9:20 pm.
Minutes not approved.
Mary Ann Primus, Clerk/Treasurer
Albany Senior Dining
Mon., Sept. 30: Bouja, fruit cocktail, cookie, bread.
Tues., Oct. 1: Chicken broccoli casserole, carrots, peaches.
Wed., Oct. 2: Sloppy Joe on bun, sweet potato, corn.
Thurs., Oct. 3: Scalloped potatoes & ham, mandarin oranges, peas, bread.
Fri., Oct. 4: Sweet & sour pork, rice, oriental vegetables, mandarin oranges, bread. Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
Grey Eagle United Methodist Church to hold Annual Hog Roast
The Grey Eagle United Methodist Church is holding its 18th Annual Hog Roast on Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the GE UMC, located at the intersection of County Roads 2 and 47, 2 ½ miles south of Grey Eagle, across from the historic
Rock Tavern.
Drive-up meals, inside, as well as outside dining in an enclosed tent are being offered and a free will offering is requested with proceeds going to supply warm winter coats, hats and mittens to local schools and building improvements. At the Upsala Area Community Center Thursday, October 3, 2024 7:00 a.m. to 12-Noon
Clean, Deodorize, Sanitize & Fluff Pillows • Put in new ticking. Crushed Foam Pillows Can Be Cleaned & Polyester Pillows Can Be Recovered. New Custom Made Pillows & Down Comforters For Sale
WALK-INS - No Appointments Necessary For More Information Call 320-573-4435.
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CLASSIFIED ADS
ST. MARTIN: Fall city-wide garage sales, Fri. & Sat., Oct 4-5. Watch for balloons.
WANTED TO BUY: Butcher cows, bulls, fats & walkable cripples: also horses, sheep & goats. 320-235-2664. SC-odB
WANTED: Live birds, pheasants, grouse, morning doves, pigeons, ducks, geese, bantams, peacocks, blue jays, etc. Call 320-4129632.
WANTED: Live wild animals: raccoons, foxes, opossum, rabbits, bear, etc. Willing to loan live trap to catch from property. 320412-9632
Freeport Cenex
Part Time Deli/Cashier
HOUSE FOR SALE: By owner: 209 Elm Ave. E., Upsala. 2-1/2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. 320-632-0493, leave number & message.
MAKE OFFER: Two DeWalt 40 volt batteries plus charger, reasonable offer. Call 320-573-2340.
FOR SALE: Shower chair, like new, $10. Call 320-285-2774.
FOR SALE: John Deere 317 skidloader, quick attach, 7,000 hrs., clean machine, newer tires. Call 320-630-5694. 10/3
FOR SALE: VHS player & movies. Call 320-260-4551.
WANTED: Animal cages, live traps, etc. Call 320-412-9632.
WANTED: Small boat trailer. Call 320267-5632. RB-tfn
FOR SALE: Air impact wrenches, 3 CBs: 1 Cobra 19, 1 Galaxy 959, 1 General Lee, 1 set of 17" tire chains, new in the box. 320260-2159 MT-tfn
FOR SALE: Jayco Eagle 5th wheel camper with 1 slide out, everthing works, good condition, $5350. Call 320-290-5156.
FOR SALE: 2 chicken nests, 6 each, total of 12 nests, $30 each. Call 763-229-5275.
FREE: JVC model no. hr-s3600u video player. Call 320-573-2340.
FOR SALE: 12 hp riding lawn mower, electric start, 38 in. deck, $275. Call 612283-2718.
FOR SALE: New Coleman propane two burner camp stove, asking $50. Call 320250-7089.
FOR SALE: 2017 Oasis 26' DB camper, like new. More info. call 320-339-5260.
A Cat Funny
If cats wore t-shirts, here is what they might say.
Purrfection cannot be improved.
Menopaws: This is the hottest I've been in years.
Take my advice. I'm not using it.
I'd like to help you out. Which way did you come in?
Cats know how we feel. They don't care, but they know.
Dogs have owners. Cats have staff.
Thousands of years ago, cats were worshiped as gods. They have never forgotten this.
Todays Thought
Some people like living in the past. For one thing, the rent is a lot cheaper.
Local Library Events
Albany Library • 320-845-4843
Sonic Escape Family Concert: Tuesday, Oct. 1: 6-7 p.m. Juilliard-trained violinist Maria Millar and flutist Shawn Wyckoff blend musical styles and explore the world of music! Join us for this lively, interactive family-friendly concert for all ages. Q&A with the musicians throughout. For all ages. This program was made possible with Arts & Cultural Heritage Funds from Minnesota’s Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment.
Grey Eagle Library • 320-285-2505
Sister Lumberjack Presentation with Author Candace Simar: Wednesday, Oct. 2: 5:306:30 p.m. Award Winning author Candace Simar will introduce the latest addition to her Fort Abercrombie series of books. Set in the logging camps of Northern Minnesota, the novel Sister Lumberjack is the story of a widow with grief and a mortgage, a young man with bottle fever, and a Benedictine nun selling hospital tickets. Their lives intersect at Starkweather Timber, a haywire logging camp where everything goes wrong. For teens and adults. This program was made possible with Arts & Cultural Heritage Funds from Minnesota’s Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment.
Melrose Library • 320-256-3885
Author Visit: Monday, Oct. 7: 6:30-7:30 p.m. David Housewright: David Housewright is an Edgar Award-winning author of crime fiction best known for his Holland Taylor and Rushmore McKenzie detective novels as well as other tales of murder and mayhem in the Midwest. David will talk about his newest book. For adults. No registration required. This program was made possible with Arts & Cultural Heritage Funds from Minnesota’s Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment.
Sauk Centre Library • 320-352-3016
Mike Lynch Minnesota Starwatch Program: Friday, Sept. 27: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Make the stars your old friends as we watch the great celestial show in the skies over Central Minnesota. Get to know constellations like The Big Bear, Cygnus the Swan, Pegasus the Winged Horse, and others. Great constellation mythological stories will also be featured! We’ll have giant telescopes aimed at Saturn, star clusters, galaxies, and more. An astronomical camera system will also capture breathtaking images! Mike Lynch is a retired WCCO meteorologist and has been hosting Minnesota and Wisconsin Starwatch programs for over 50 years! Sponsored by the Friends of the Sinclair Lewis Library of Sauk Centre.
Offsite location: Grey Stone Golf Course, 10548 Andrews Dr, Sauk Centre, MN 56378
