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Exercise your brain so your memory doesn’t get flabby -By
Harvey Mackay
A patient once complained to his psychiatrist that he was always forgetting things and asked, “What shall I do?”
“Pay me in advance,” the doctor advised. Most people who claim they have a poor memory actually have an untrained memory. Twenty percent remember by hearing, so say things out loud. Forty percent remember by seeing, and the other forty percent by doing.
But this isn’t anything new. Confucius said 2,500 years ago: “What I hear, I forget. What I see, I remember. What I do, I understand.”
my phone. On the professional side, leverage tools like dictation apps or voice memos to capture ideas and important information quickly.
Create associations. Try name association techniques to remember people. For example, link a person’s name with a famous person or a visual image. That’s why you will rarely hear me say, “I’ll never forget what’s-hisname.”
Repetition and review. I repeat things over and over, which helps me remember names, phone numbers and key statistics. Regularly review important personal information, like birthdays and anniversaries. Revisit meeting notes and project plans frequently to reinforce details.
Visual aids. Use visual aids like mind maps or charts to organize information. Prompts can help remember lists or complex information by creating memorable phrases or acronyms.
Writing in “Psychology Today,” author Art Markman Ph.D. said: “As I argue in “Smart Thinking,” the only route to finding creative solutions to a problem is to find information in your memory that will help you to solve the problem in some way. The key is to find new memories that will relate to the problem you are trying to solve in some way.”
Markman goes on to explain, “Creativity is driven by memory … The most important thing to keep in mind, though, is that all creative work requires using your existing knowledge to help you to do new things.”
Memory is like a muscle; it gets stronger with use, but every now and then, it might just decide to take a day off!
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There are many ways that you can train yourself to have a better memory. There are plenty of how-to books and courses available for improving your memory. Like every other skill, it takes practice and commitment to improve.
Improving memory can be beneficial in both personal and professional contexts. Here are some tips that I use to stay sharp.
Write things down. Take notes during meetings, jot down important dates and make lists of tasks. Writing helps reinforce memory through the physical act of recording information. As I’ve preached a million times, pale ink is better than the most retentive memory.
Use technology wisely. Use apps and digital calendars to set reminders for personal events and tasks. I constantly set alarms on
FRIDAY, MAY 1
Stay organized. Keep your living space tidy and use a consistent filing system for personal documents. Organize your workspace and digital files to make information easy to find and recall.
Healthy lifestyle choices. Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly and get enough sleep. These lifestyle choices support brain health and improve memory.
Practice mindfulness and meditation. Mindfulness and meditation can reduce stress and improve focus, which in turn enhances memory retention.
Challenge your brain. Engage in activities like puzzles, reading or learning a new language. Take on new challenges at work that require learning new skills or information.
Memory has a significant connection to creativity, another of my favorite topics.
There was a gentleman who prided himself on having an excellent memory. He often boasted to his friends about how he could recall even the smallest details from years ago. One day, he was at a party and decided to demonstrate his remarkable memory skills.
He confidently announced, “Ask me anything about any event we’ve ever attended 29442
Upcoming Events
• Fish Fry from 4-7 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Albany. See ad on page 3.
TUESDAY, MAY 5
• Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting at 2 p.m. at CentraCare West Campus Board Room, Long Prairie.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 6
• Smart Driver Class 4 Hour Refresher Course from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Word of Life Church, Upsala. See ad on page 2.
• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle. See ad on page 5.
THURSDAY, MAY 7
• Red Cross Blood drive from 12-6 p.m. at Avon Community Church.
FRI.-SAT., MAY 8-9
• Melrose American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Distributions in Melrose & Freeport.
• 3rd Annual Melrose Area Festival of the Arts from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Friday; 11 a.m.6 p.m. on Saturday at the American Legion, Melrose.
SUNDAY, MAY 17
• Breakfast from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, St. Francis.
THURSDAY, MAY 21
• Grey Eagle Senior Center Meeting at 4:30 p.m. Potluck & Bingo to follow.
THURSDAY, MAY 28
• Grey Eagle Burtrum Lions American Red Cross Blood Drive from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Grey Eagle.
AL-ANON • AVON
• Meets every Monday from 5-6 p.m. at the
Avon City Hall.
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.
CHAIR YOGA EXERCISES
• Meets Tuesday & Thursday at 10 a.m. at the Community Center, Upsala.
FEET FIRST CLINIC
• Freeport: Meets 1st Wednesday of the month at the Freeport Senior Center.
• Holdingford: Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Holdingford City Hall.
FREEPORT CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
FREEPORT LIONS CLUB
• Bingo every Saturday thru March at 1:30 p.m. at the Corner Pub, Freeport.
FREEPORT SENIOR MEETING
• Meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 1 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.
LINE DANCING
• Meets Mondays at 4 p.m. & 5 p.m. alternating Mondays at the Melrose American Legion.
MELROSE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 1st Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the town hall.
MELROSE VFW #7050 POST/AUX.
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion Clubrooms.
MELROSE LEGION #101 POST/AUX.
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion. (Aux. Sept.-May.)
STEARNS CO. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
• Meets the 2nd Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Albany. SUNSHINE CLUB
• Meets every Monday, weigh in starts at 8; meeting at 8:30 a.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle.
ST. ROSA CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 3rd Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Community Park building.
SWANVILLE CITY COUNCIL
• 1st Tuesday after the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
SWANVILLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Swanville Fire Hall.
UPSALA CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne
Thinking Back
I’m sure that when a couple of us get together and talk about memories when there are younger folks present, they think that our discussion is about some other world. If they are unable to understand, too bad, that is how it was. Last week it was a pleasure to spend time with one of the old neighborhood kids. Our discussion dealt with happenings that are uncommon today.
We, of course, spoke of the box on the wall that was the party line and how the neighbors would listen on the phone to hear the rest of the neighborhood conversations, which included ordering gasoline delivery, vet services, artificial breeding service and sometimes personal conversations.
At that time, the older field workers wore long legged wool underwear, because it absorbed sweat and made their bodies feel cooler. Their jobs included repairing grain shocks after wind damage, pitching grain bundles into the wagon and threshing machines. Other jobs that needed wool underwear were sitting on the back if a bailer and twisting the wires that held the bales together. Did the woolies along with the chaff and dust really make them feel better?
Horses were a special treat. One end kicked, the other end nipped and when trying to attach the harness belly strap securely, they would inhale extra air until one had to kick them in the belly to make them exhale.
You had two pairs of shoes, one being work shoes and the other were Sunday shoes. The work shoes were taken to the shoemaker to replace soles, heels and leather patches on holes worn on the rest of the shoe. Sunday shoes turned into school shoes and usually needed to be replaced since they became too small.
A happy memory included a neighbor that constantly sang “Daisy Daisy give me your answer do” to create the right rhythm to hand milk the cows. He also made the mistake of discing the horseradish on the corner of the field and then pulling the drag over it, thereby creating some spicy silage.
Younger folks today have a hard time understanding how being fed store-bought bread could be a treat. The reason was, each
mother made her own bread from her own recipe and it always tasted the same whether eaten right from the loaf or put on the stove griddle to be toasted. Well, that is the way it was.
Some of us can remember when 3 to 4 cents were needed to send a letter in the mail. Over the last 70 years the cost has gone to over 70 cents. Evidently the US has increased in size by 25 times so that the distance justifies the extra cost.
It actually is hard to realize how much everyday life has changed since the 40’s.
For feedback or story ideas, email Tom at kuehneins@gmail.com.
Harvey Mackay continued from pg 2
together, and I’ll tell you exactly what happened!”
A friend, eager to test him, asked, “Do you remember the time we all went to that big concert last summer?”
The man paused for a moment, scratched his head, and replied, “Ah, yes! I remember it like it was yesterday... but remind me, who was performing again?”
The room erupted in laughter, as it turned out, his memory was excellent for everything except the main event!
Even the best memories can have a few blind spots, so it’s always good to have friends who can fill in the gaps!
Mackay’s Moral: A sharp memory is like a well-tuned instrument; with regular practice and care, it can play the symphony of your life with clarity and precision.
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.”
From the Desk of Pastor Bruce
For all my regular readers, you know that in the last year I have had both shoulders done. The left one was replaced in 2005, so it was a replacement of a replacement. Because of the way my surgeon did the replacement over 20 years ago, restricting the movement and because of the years of difficulty before that time, I had muscles that I haven’t used in over 20 years. So, when my regular Physical Therapy was done, I still had limited movement and strength.
I heard about a Muscle Activation Technique therapist and thought I would give it a shot. Last Thursday I mentioned to her that I thought it was funny that when she is working on the left shoulder, she compares it to the right shoulder. She laughed and said, “It’s the best of the two.” I can’t help but think of many people that I have talked to over the years about their faith in Jesus Christ. I have asked several people that if they were to die tonight, would they go to heaven? Many people say, “Yes, I would go to heaven.” Then I usually ask, why do you say that you would go to heaven? Again, most people would say,
“I’m a pretty good person, or I’m better than most people.”
God’s Word is clear, God does not “grade” on the curve! We will all answer for the things we have said and done, not anyone else. Jesus tells a parable about a pharisee who thanked God that he was not like the taxpayer. That taxpayer was also praying, with his eyes down, humbly asking God to forgive him. Luke 18:14 says “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” We don’t need to look very far to find the truth. We are all sinners, there is no one righteous (Romans 3:10 paraphrased), so we shouldn’t think that we are better than the next person. This ought to be our prayer: Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Obituaries
Delores Helen Voss
Delores Helen Voss of Holdingford, Minnesota died Monday, April 20, 2026 very peacefully at the Centra Care Melrose Hospital surrounded by loving family. She was just short of turning 95 years old. Delores was born May 24,1931 in St. Anna to Leo and Helen (Schulte) Jarmuzek. She had nine brothers and sisters. She was the second oldest of the children. Delores attended St. Anna school through grade 7 and then transferred to Albany for the eight grade. An unfortunate accident from jumping off a shed with her friends (boys, mostly) resulted in a fractured arm which sent her to the Gillette Children’s Hospital driven by her doctor from Melrose hospital at the time. Delores stayed there for 3 months rehabiliating and being tutored. And, yes, that same doctor brought her back home due to transportation issues at the time. As a growing young lady, she was hired out for babysitting and cooking for farm families when she met a handsome Vos boy (spelling at the time) at the St. Anna Ballroom, he chased and finally caught her. Vernon and Delores married on February 7, 1950, lived in Albany for a bit, then moved to their forever home in Holdingford. Delores stayed home to raise their kids but eventually applied as a cook for St. John’s University and continued for 34 years liking the breakfast shift and fellow cooks.
Delores and Vern were happy to live in Holdingford and added on housing sections as well as kids. Through the years Delores enjoyed camping, water skiing, family get-togethers especially as the nuclear family grew with more smiley faces. She traveled more with her kids/ families both in Minnesota, a couple of cruises, and to Cancun, Mexico. Her expression after being asked to come along, “why not?” Delores was always the one family member everyone loved to greet and hug. Smiling and laughing was just her disposition all the way to the end of her precious life.
Delores is survived by her children: Vern Jr. (Bery) St. Joseph; Linda Theisen (Dan) St. Joseph; Sandy (Dan) Sowada, St.Anna; Terry (Sheila) Sartell; Jeff, Sartell; Russell (Sarah) Sartell; Greg (Nancy) Sauk Rapids; Tim (Peggy) Sauk Rapids, also daughter-in-law Cathy Voss, Little Falls; sister Marie Angulski, Coon Rapids;and many very active grand children, great grandkids, and great great grandkids.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Vernon Sr. (2008), daughter Ruby (2013), grand son Ryan Voss (2016), son Kevin (2002), and 8 Jarmuzek siblings with brotherin-law Ed Angulski recently deceased.
The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Monday, April 27 at the Church of All Saints-St. Mary’s (ASSM) in Holdingford. Delores’ parting message to her Voss children was “I love you all. Think happy thoughts of me.” Nice message to everyone who touched her life.
Arrangments were with Miller Carlin Funeral Home.
Leona Niemeyer
Leona
Niemeyer, 89-yearold resident of Long Prairie, MN, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at her home in Long Prairie, MN. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Swanville Bible Church, at 11:00 A.M., with Pastor Bruce Miller officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 A.M., prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Moses Dane Cemetery in Burtrum, MN, following the service. Caring for Leona and her family is the LeMieur Funeral Home in Little Falls.
Leona Mae Palm was born on June 28, 1936, near Swanville in Burnhamville Township to the late Albert and Florence (Stoll) Palm. A couple of her uncles nicknamed her Dolly because she was so small. Her growing-up years were spent on a farm south of Swanville. Leona attended grade school in Burtrum, graduated from high school from Swanville in 1954, and after three years graduated from St. Cloud Teacher College. She taught second grade for two years in Mora, Minnesota. Leona married Henry Niemeyer on July 25, 1959, in Swanville. Henry was a telegrapher for the railroad, which took them to three states in their first year of marriage. They eventually settled in Glendive, Montana, where all four of their children were born and raised. The family vacationed for many years in Minnesota, visiting family around the area and helping on the Palm family farm. She was baptized in the First Congregational Church in Glendive, where she taught Sunday School, was active in many fellowship groups for women, and served on various church boards. She was also a member of the Women of the Moose. When Henry retired in 1993, they moved back to Minnesota to the Long Prairie area on a hobby farm, which was their pride and joy for many years. She enjoyed time in her vegetable and flower gardens. Frozen apple cider was a family treat. They moved into Long Prairie in 2014. After returning, she reestablished her family connection with the Swanville Bible Church. Leona liked to cook, bake, and sew for her family, quilt, do hand crafts and embroidery. She spent time doing word searches and jigsaw puzzles. She especially enjoyed when family and grandchildren could come visit, giving her an opportunity to make special meals or treats.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, Nancy (Terry) Pedersen of Glendive, Montana, Sharon (Tom) Neel of Panora, Iowa, Gayle Zickuhr of Billings, Montana, and daughter-inlaw, Jolee Niemeyer of Bismarck, North Dakota; grandchildren, Breanne and Emily Neel, Chelsey and Kyle Niemeyer, Nicholas (Kendra) Zickuhr, and one great-granddaughter, Emily Zickuhr. She is also survived by her brother, Glenn (Arlene) Palm; sisters-in-law, Darlene Palm, Ann Burger, Beatrice Rahn; brother-in-law, Andy Staricka, and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Henry; son, Kevin; siblings, Francis (Sandy), Judith Heisick (Ervin Koehn and Raymond), Herb (Dorothy), Betty Staricka, Scotty, David, and sister-in-law, Joyce (Strom) Palm; as well as many of Henry’s family.
Lorraine M. Curto
Lorraine M. Curto, age 97 of Melrose, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Friday, April 24, 2026 at the Cura Care Center in Melrose, Minnesota.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 30 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. Interment will be at 2 p.m. at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.
Visitation will be from 9 to 9:45 a.m. Thursday at the church.
Lorraine Marie Grahek was born April 30, 1928 at home on the Iron Range in Keewatin, Minnesota and graduated from Keewatin High School in 1946. She was united in marriage to James Curto on June 29, 1946 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Keewatin, Minnesota. Lorraine worked as a waitress for a summer in Washington D.C. when she was 17 years old and also worked as a bartender at Cal’s Bar in Keewatin. The couple moved to St. Cloud where Lorraine worked at Fingerhut and at the St. Cloud Hospital in sterile processing. They eventually moved back to the Iron Range where Lorraine worked at the Virginia Clinic as the central supply material manager. Lorraine and Jim moved back to Melrose in 1996.
Her first church was St. Mary’s in Keewatin and her last church was St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. Lorraine was very active at church and served as a lector, sacristan, Eucharistic Minister, St. Mary’s Mission Group, and helped with funeral meals and Faith in Action. She was a member of the Christian Mothers, Catholic United Financial, and Schanhaar-Otte VFW Post 7050 Auxiliary, and a volunteer at Meals on Wheels and the American Red Cross.
Lorraine enjoyed many activities including bowling, quilting at the Senior Center, and working at the VFW Auxiliary events. She was an excellent cook with some of her specialties being spaghetti, lasagna, and sarmas. When it came to baking, her favorites included cookies, potica, muffins, and bars. Lorraine enjoyed going out for breakfast with church friends, watching Wheel of Fortune and EWTN, working puzzles and word finds, playing cards and board games, and reading. She enjoyed traveling abroad and visited many countries and cities including Washington D.C., Jerusalem, Germany, Medjugorje, Croatia, and had been on many cruises. Lorraine traveled all over the United States including World Youth Day with three grandchildren in Colorado. Family gatherings for whatever reason were very important to Lorraine.
Survivors include her children, Pat (Pam Krueger) Curto of Rice, Dolly Curto of Aurora, Colorado, Nancy (Greg) Peters Salem, Oregon, Jeannie Curto of Foley, Diane Brum of Sartell, Toni (Joe) Borgerding of Elrosa, Brandan (Mary) Curto of Sauk Rapids, Char (Jim) Darlington of St. Cloud, and Jimmy (Sheila Kritta) Curto of Deer River; 27 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren with one on the way, and two great-great-grandchildren with two on the way.
Lorraine was preceded in death by her husband, James “Jim” Curto on March 4, 2004; infant son, Angelo; grandson, Carl Borgerding; son-in-law, Mike Brum; sister, Rosalind Oliva; and brother, Rudy Grahek.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.
Karen Elizabeth (Johnson) Iblings-Koshenina
Karen Elizabeth Johnson-IblingsKoshenina of Upsala, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on Sunday, April 19, 2026. Karen was born January 28, 1951, to Margaret and Ralph Johnson in Little Falls, Minnesota. She grew up on her family farm in Upsala, Minnesota, with six siblings, and eventually settled in Maple Grove, Minnesota, to raise a family with her first husband, Randy Iblings. She worked as a housewife, a seamstress, a secretary, and a medical records supervisor. In her free time she enjoyed days at the beach swimming with her children Jeffrey and Kimberlee, and getting a good tan.
Karen would go on to marry her high school sweetheart, Fran Koshenina. After a few years they moved back to their hometown of Upsala to a lake place she and Fran built from scratch. Flowers were a passion of hers, and she had a gorgeous garden. Karen and Fran spent summer evenings cruising the lake on their pontoon and having dinner on the boat as the sun set. When not at the lake, they enjoyed traveling the country, and visited all 50 states. Wherever Karen went she loved meeting new people, and making lifelong friendships.
Karen is survived by her husband Fran Koshenina; son, Jeff Iblings and his wife Regan Saunders; daughter, Kim Iblings and partner Ed Matlock; sisters, Sandy Carlson, Ingrid Johnson, and Gretchen Schaumann; brothers, Paul, Steve, and David Johnson; along with numerous nieces and nephews; step-children, Rustie Miller and Sheleine Kepner, and their children.
A celebration of life will be held in the summer and will be announced at a later date.
Audrey Anne Soltis
Audrey
“Audge” Soltis, 69 year old resident of Bowlus, passed away on Thursday, April 23 at her home. A funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 30th, at Community Country Church in Holdingford with Pastor Gregg Valentine officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:00 until the hour of service on Thursday at the church. The burial will be held in the South Elmdale Cemetery. Audrey Anne Soltis was born on May 21st, 1956, to parents Norma (Rafferty) and Alexander Kotzer in Little Falls. She grew up moving many places as her father was in the military. She especially enjoyed living near the ocean in California. Audge’s family eventually moved back to Holdingford, where she would attend Holdingford High School. Audge met the love of her life, Scott, at a gathering, and the two immediately hit it off. She was united in marriage to Scott Soltis on June 28th, 1975, in the South Elmdale Congregational Church. The couple made their home in Bowlus, where they would raise their three boys. As Scott began to work as an over-the-road truck driver, Audge made sure to keep her boys out of trouble. She would even write down lists of all that had happened while Scott was away so he would be informed when he got back. Audge made sure their home was always tidy, there was always a delicious meal on the table, and her family was cared for.
Audge enjoyed traveling with Scott, whether it was in the semi-truck or on the motorcycle. Every year on their anniversary,
Forever Young Choir Looking for Singers
Forever Young Choir is looking for people who like to sing and have fun. We have rehearsals on Thursdays from 3-4:30 starting May 28th at the Melrose City Center. We have 3 concerts in Mid September. Everyone is welcome to join. Please contact our director Bonnie Nelson at 320-492-3782 for more information. You’ll be glad you did!
Scott would take Audge on a trip in his truck all around the country. They made many trips to the ocean, which she still loved from her childhood.
Audge’s family was the most important part of her life. She would organize big family barbecues to gather everyone together for a time of laughter and joy. Once her children had grown up and started their own families, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, especially supporting them by attending their sporting events. She also loved making her specialty popcorn to share with her grandchildren. Audge also adored her pet Yorkies, lovingly caring for the pups and buying many treats and accessories for them. She liked to shop, especially when it came to shopping for gifts for her children, grandchildren, or her beloved Yorkies. Her family remembers her always being there to support them and care for them.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Scott Soltis of Bowlus; sons, Jeremy (Sherry) Soltis of Freeport, Trevor (Melissa) Soltis of Upsala, and Ryan (Amy) Soltis of Opole; brothers, Robert Robetor of Jackson, MO, Kenny (Kathy) Kotzer of Clear Lake, Rick (Bianca) Kotzer of St. Cloud, David Kotzer of Bowlus, Billy (Deidra) Kotzer of Hackensack, and Danny (Cathy) Kotzer of Sartell; sisters, Donna Koltes of Richmond, Darlene (Dotzie) Kotzer of Holdingford, Phyllis of St. Cloud, Lori (Kevin) Vredenburg of Pequot Lakes, and Shirley Kotzer of Alaska; and her 7 grandchildren.
Audge is preceded in death by her parents, Norma (Rafferty) and Alexander Kotzer; sister Carol Robetor; brother, Tony Kotzer; parentsin-law, Dale and Delores Soltis; and infant grandchild Tatum.
Parkinson's Support Group Meeting
Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting is for anyone with Parkinson’s, their families, and caregivers. Next meeting will be May 5, 2026 at 2 p.m. at the CentraCare Long Prairie West Campus Boardroom, 20 9th St. SE. For more information contact Rona Bleess at 320-874-0222.
Bird Baths, Wind Chimes, Solar Stakes & Lanterns, Rain Gauges, Balloons, Shepherds Hooks & More!
Emerald Ash Borer Found in Todd County
Emergency quarantine on wood movement put in place for Todd County
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has confirmed emerald ash borer (EAB) in Todd County for the first time. There are now 60 counties in the state, including Todd, with EAB.
MDA staff confirmed EAB infested trees along State Hwy 28 near Burtrum, MN.
EAB was first discovered in Minnesota in 2009. The insect larvae kill ash trees by tunneling under the bark and feeding on the part of the tree that moves nutrients up and down the trunk. Often, the trees show several signs of infestation because of this. Woodpeckers like to feed on EAB larvae, and woodpecker holes may indicate the presence of emerald ash borer. Also, EAB tunneling can cause the bark to split open, revealing characteristic S-shaped galleries underneath.
Because this is the first time EAB has been identified in Todd County, the MDA is enacting an emergency quarantine of the entire county. The quarantine limits the movement of firewood and ash material out of the area.
The MDA issues quarantines for all areas known to have EAB to reduce the risk of further spreading the tree-killing insect.
A virtual informational meeting for residents and tree care professionals in Todd County will be held with experts from the MDA. Staff will give a brief presentation followed by a question-and-answer session. Emerald Ash Borer Virtual Informational Meeting will be held Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Register at https://www. mda.state.mn.us/emerald-ash-borer-quarantine
The public will also have an opportunity to provide input on the proposal to add Todd County’s emergency quarantine to the state’s formal quarantine. The MDA is taking comments on the proposed formal quarantine now through June 5, 2026, and recommends adopting the quarantine on June 10, 2026. The proposed quarantine language can be found at www.mda.state.mn.us/eab.
Comments can be made during the virtual meeting or by contacting Mark Abrahamson, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, 625 Robert Street North, St. Paul, MN 55155 or email: mark.abrahamson@state.mn.us.
NEVILLE HARDWARE
Site
Sudoku
Sudoku is one of the most popular puzzle games of all time. The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9. As a logic puzzle, Sudoku is also an excellent brain game.
Dave Says -By Dave Ramsey
Dear Dave, I’m currently in Baby Step 2 of your plan, and I’ve been intense about paying off debt. I make about $80,000 a year in sales and recently received a tax refund of $4,400. I have an idea to use the refund money to open a trailer rental business as a side hustle to pay off debt faster. Do you think this is a good idea, or should I use all the money to help pay off debt?
-Mike
Dear Mike,
I like that you’re trying to find a way to pay off your debt even faster. But no, I wouldn’t use the tax refund to open a trailer rental business.
I want you to get rid of your debt as fast as possible. But the problem with throwing all
that money at two or three trailers is that you might not rent them one single time. That’s a very real possibility. You’ve got to consider all the downsides and all the possible negative scenarios. If there are more negatives than there are positives, your idea’s probably not going to work. Now, I don’t mind the idea of you taking a small part of the $4,400 to get something going on the side. I’d rather see you take $400-$500 of the refund money and put it into something where you’re pretty sure you’re going to get $500-$1,000 back within the first month or so. In that kind of situation, even if the idea doesn’t work out, you’ve only burned a little bit of the money. You’d still have around $4,000 left to help pay off debt.
But here’s something else I want you to think about: It sounds like you’re making a pretty good living as a salesman. If I were in your shoes, I’d find a part-time job selling a quality product I was excited about and believed in, something that doesn’t compete with what I’m selling at my day job. I mean, selling is selling. If you could get with a company that would let you sell on nights or weekends, you could probably make a nice chunk of cash. That’s a lot better plan than setting a couple of trailers in your yard and hoping someone rents them.
And hey, adjust your W-4 so you don’t get a refund next year. A tax refund isn’t free money, and there’s no reason to give Uncle Sam an interest-free loan for a year — especially when that money would do more good in your own pocket.
Good luck, Mike!
Ask The Motor Medics®
From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Dear Motor Medics, I’m having trouble with my car overheating. When driven until the engine is fully warmed up the temperature gauge will move to the red line but then drops back to almost the cold mark and continues this cycle as long as I drive. This has been going on for several months and I also noticed that on one cool morning when I used my heater the temperature of the air coming from the vent changed from hot to cold when the gauge started to cycle. The funny thing was that the temp went cold when the gauge was hot and then warmed up again when the gauge moved towards cold. What could be going on with my car?
-Beverly in Lincoln, Nebraska
Dear Beverly,
The description you provided is very good and unfortunately the first thing that comes to mind is a head gasket failure. When a head gasket fails it can allow the heated combustion gases from the cylinder to pass into the cooling passages. When this happens the coolant no longer can cool the engine due to the disruption of the coolant flow and the gauge moves towards hot. At the same time the coolant flow to the heater is disrupted and the air from the vents will cool down. Checking for a head gasket failure is done by testing the air in the cooling system for combustion gases. If gas is present it indicates a failure in the system.
-Dave
* Leadership and small-business expert
Dave Ramsey is the CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored eight national bestselling books, including “EntreLeadership,” and he’s a host of “The Ramsey Show” and “The EntreLeadership Podcast.”
-Take care, the Motor Medics
Dear Motor Medics,
I have faithfully serviced my Toyota since the day it was new in 2021. I have taken it in for every factory recommended service listed under the severe service category in the owner’s manual. I have had very few failures in the first 150,000 miles. I say first because I plan to drive it another 150,000 before trading it off and I may even keep it longer if she holds together. The manual stops at about 120,000 but I have seen the pattern and can just repeat I suppose. Being that it is aging are there things not in the manual that I should consider to preserve the life of the truck?
-Ralph in McAlester, Oklahoma
Dear Ralph,
Good job on keeping your vehicle running. In addition to the manufacturer recommended services, you can ask your shop what they recommend. Often a fuel system cleaning can do wonders for an aging vehicle that is starting to lose fuel mileage due to the lost efficiency caused by a dirty fuel system. Also at this age, brake fluid and power steering fluid will start to break down or become acidic which can wear parts prematurely. Changing these fluids often will extend the life of the systems and save you money on repairs over the long term. A good relationship with an experienced shop is the best way to find out what areas of your vehicle can benefit from a little added attention to maintenance.
-Take care, the Motor Medics For entertainment only. Always consult your local shop and follow all safety procedures before repairs. Come visit the Motor Medics® online at Underthehoodshow.com.
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070
Mon., May 4: Chicken broccoli casserole, green beans, dessert, bread. Tues., May 5: Porcupine meatballs, baked potato, peas, brownie.
Wed., May 6: Fried chicken, sweet potatoes, coleslaw, dessert.
Thurs., May 7: Tilapia, rice, vegetable Normandy, bread.
Fri., May 8: BBQ pork, macaroni & cheese, broccoli.
Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
Sudoku Answers from April 23
Upstage Players Announce Auditions for Tarzan!
Hear the call of the jungle…
The Upstage Players Board is hosting auditions for its 2026 summer community theatre production, Tarzan. Auditions will be held in the auditorium at Upsala High School on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 6-8 P.M. Callbacks will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 6. Actors may leave after their audition and are not required to stay for the full session. Please plan to arrive early if you need time to complete the audition form on-site. If you’re interested in auditioning but unable to attend on the scheduled date, please email Director Melanie at melaniecimenski79@gmail.com to explore alternate arrangements.
This is a show where the ensemble truly brings the story to life. The African gorilla family is the heart of the production—their love, connection, and community shape Tarzan’s world in every moment. Beyond the principal roles, it’s the ensemble and featured dancers who fill the stage with energy, rhythm, and life. This is not background work—this is storytelling at its most powerful. The play offers roles for a wide variety of ages, from infant to the very wise. This musical is the perfect chance for families to be involved in something that brings them together this summer! In order to be considered for a role, actors must be able to be present for all performances.
Auditioning actors 1) will perform a thirty-second segment of a song from the show, and 2) will dramatically interpret one of the one-minute monologues available on the Upstage Players website. Monologues do not need to be memorized. Actors who would like to be considered for a dancing role/a role that requires dancing should learn the short audition sequence (available on the website) to perform individually for the auditions panel.
Actors interested in auditioning can visit www.upstageplayers.org and click on the Upcoming tab for full audition details. The Troupe File includes character descriptions, a
tentative rehearsal schedule, and everything you’ll need to prepare. Feel free to reach out to Melanie with questions about roles, show requirements, etc.
If you loved the Disney film, get ready to fall in love all over again. Phil Collins’ unforgettable songs from the movie return for the stage adaptation—along with brand-new music he wrote exclusively for the musical. Audiences will be swept away by this powerful story of identity, family, and belonging. Tarzan follows the journey of a boy raised by a tribe of gorillas after being orphaned in the African jungle. Struggling to find where he fits, Tarzan grows under the watchful care of his mother, Kala, and the reluctant leadership of Kerchak, learning the ways of the jungle while feeling the pull of something more.
When a group of explorers arrives, Tarzan encounters Jane for the first time—someone who is both like him and completely different. As he is torn between two worlds, Tarzan must decide where he truly belongs. Filled with heart, breathtaking movement, and a vibrant ensemble that brings the jungle to life, this unforgettable production explores what it means to find your place in the world. Join Upstage as Tarzan comes alive in a story that will leave you moved, inspired, and ready to answer the call of the wild.
Rehearsals are usually Sunday from 3-5:30 P.M, and Mondays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 8:30 P.M. in June, and 5:30 - 9:30 P.M. in July at Upsala High School. A tentative rehearsal schedule is available at upstageplayers. org. This schedule is subject to shift (minimally) due to actor availability.
If you love to move, connect, and be part of something bigger, we need you.
Come build the jungle. Come be the family. Come bring Tarzan to life.
Performance Dates will be July 17, 18, and 20: at 7:00 PM; July 19: at 2:00 PM at the Upsala High School Auditorium. We can’t wait to see you there!
Regional fishing outlooks available from Minnesota DNR in preparation for opener
Anglers looking for local fishing information before the Saturday, May 9 fishing opener can check the regional fishing outlooks from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
The outlooks provide details about fishing opportunities and conditions in different parts of the state, including for specific lakes, rivers and streams.
CLASSIFIED ADS
GARAGE SALE: Lots of Tools, something for everyone. Apr. 30-May-2: 7am6pm. Emerald Ave. across from Boomerang Sports, Melrose.
GARAGE SALE: 125 6th St. NE, Melrose. April 30-May 2nd. Craft supplies and miscellaneous.
GARAGE SALE: Coming in May, large garage sale in Burtrum.
AVON: Avon Area Garage Sales, May 1-2.
GARAGE SALE: Saturday, May 2: 8-4. Old tools, household goods, furniture, hunting & adult clothing. 28033 County Road 2, Grey Eagle.
Our Savior’s Lutheran Church GARAGE SALE
May 7-9
Thurs.: 5-7 PM • Fri.: 8-5 PM Sat.: 8-Noon (Sat. clothes $1/bag)
Our Savior's Church Fellowship Hall 840 Lake Ave., Albany
PLANT SALE: Sauk Centre History Museum Annual Plant Sale Saturday, May 16: 10-3, Sinclair Lewis Library. Plants donated by Tree Top Nursery.
WANTED TO BUY: Dairy Heifers and Cows. 320-894-7175. SC-evB
WANTED: Cars and pickups from the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, in your weeds or sheds. 218-640-3807 or 218-756-2257.
WANTED: 15 young laying hens. Call 320429-0149. 4/30
WANTED: Good used freezer, reasonable price. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn
WANTED TO BUY: Riding lawnmower in good condition. Call 320-632-3336. 5/7
WORK WANTED: Local teenager looking for mowing & lawn jobs around Big Birch Lake and surrounding towns. Call/text Tyler 320-250-9815. 5/28
Offers a drive thru window, kitchen set up for cooking/baking, dining area. Great set up for a coffee shop or retail. Call Ben at 320-290-8373.
WANTED: Good used refrigerator for garage, reasonably priced. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn
FOR SALE: Hewitt boat lift and green canopy, 1800 pound, 110x20 foot. Co Rd 104, passed the Hub, $1800. Call 612-554-2932. tfn-RG
FOR SALE: Like new Dell 22 inch computer monitor, $25. Call 320-360-0343. 5/7
FOR SALE: Imperial tandem two horse trailer, electric brakes, bumper pull, straight load, spare tire, stored indoors, excellent condition. Call 320-493-6387.
FOR SALE: Wedding dress size 7. Deer mounts. Garden tiller. Two vintage steamer trunks $200 each. Ever bearing raspberry plants. Vintage fishing rods, reels, musky lures. 320-255-9519
FOR SALE: 1991 Dodge van, has bed, TV, 318 engine, $6,800. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn
FOR SALE: Top cover for a hot tub, never been outside, perfect shape, 80”x47”. Call Heidi Salzmann 763-229-8104.
Anglers have many options in addition to fishing for the popular walleye. Back bays of lakes are great for finding abundant bluegill and crappie. Bass catch-and-release fishing is now open and provides additional opportunity. Northern pike are almost always willing to bite, and Minnesota has all kinds of other native rough fish species like sucker species, freshwater drum and others that can provide a lot of action and good table fare.
The regional fishing outlooks include details about waters throughout each region and can be found on the Minnesota DNR website (mndnr.gov/fishing/outlooks.html).
“Conditions at opener could vary significantly based on how far north anglers are fishing,” said Leslie George, northeast region fisheries manager. “Cold water and lingering ice can affect fish behavior and positioning, requiring different fishing tactics compared to warmer waters to the south. Even within a waterbody, temperatures can vary by several degrees.”
Minnesota moms: Join the Mother’s Day weekend fishing challenge
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages moms who live in Minnesota to join a free virtual fishing challenge during Take a Mom Fishing Weekend Saturday, May 9, through Sunday, May 10, when Minnesota moms can fish without purchasing a fishing license.
“Fishing has always been one of my favorite traditions. There’s nothing like being out on the water and sharing that time with the people you love,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “Take a Mom Fishing Weekend is a great opportunity to carry that tradition forward and welcome more women into the outdoors. Whether it’s your first cast or your hundredth, we want every mom to feel like she belongs out on the water.”
“The Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge is a wonderful way to celebrate the role moms play as leaders and teachers in the outdoors,” said Sarah Strommen, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources commissioner. “Whether fishing with friends or family, getting outdoors as a new angler or an experienced one, Minnesota moms are building community and making connections and memories that last far beyond a day on the water. I want to invite all Minnesota moms to join this fun challenge by sharing their fish photos. I can’t wait to share mine!”
To participate in the challenge, moms simply need to join the Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge 2026 Facebook group and submit one photo of each fish they catch on May 9-10.
The 2026 Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge is a collaboration between the Minnesota DNR, Student Angler Organization (studentangler.org) and Women Anglers of Minnesota (womenanglersmn.com). All participants who submit a fish photo will be entered in a random drawing for prizes provided by the Student Angler Organization and their partners. Participants are also invited to tune in for pre-challenge fishing webinars, hosted by Women Anglers of Minnesota, to brush up on technique before heading out.
This is the fourth year the DNR and its partners are hosting the Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge. During the 2025 challenge, more than 2,700 Minnesota moms from across the state participated, catching 1,600 fish.
To see challenge details and join in the fun, visit the Take a Mom Fishing webpage (mndnr.gov/take-mom-fishing).
Take a Mom Fishing Weekend was established in Minnesota in 1988 to coincide with Mother’s Day. Fishing season dates and regulations are on the Minnesota DNR fishing webpage (mndnr.gov/fishing).
House Fire: April 21, 2026: At approximately 3:22 PM, the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office and the St. Stephen Fire Department were dispatched to a structure fire at the address of 39070 County Road 1 in Le Sauk Township, which is approximately a mile north of the City of Sartell.
When deputies arrived on scene the house was fully engulfed. The home is believed to be a total loss. There were no injuries and the homeowners were able to get out safely. The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office and St. Stephen Fire Department were assisted by Sartell Police Department, Sartell Fire Department, Rice Fire Department, Sauk Rapids Fire Department, Holdingford Fire Department and Mayo Ambulance. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
A Singing Funny
Joan’s husband likes to sing. He decided to join the church choir. From time to time he would practice in the shower or getting dressed or preparing a meal.
Whenever he would start in on a song, Joan would head outside to the porch.
Her husband, with hurt feelings, said, “What’s the matter, Joan? Don’t you like my singing?”
Joan replied, “Honey, I love your singing, but I just want to make sure the neighbors know I’m not beating you.”
Todays Thought
A burglar broke into our house. I put the little red light on his chest and the cat took care of the rest.
Sauk Centre, Birch Lake area!
FOR SALE: Fire rings, $50 each. Call 320573-3939. 5/28
