Hometown News February 12, 2026

Hometown News

29442

The best vitamin for making friends is B-1 -By

MONDAYS • 5 PM

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In a small village, a farmer planned a big feast to get to know his neighbors. He gathered food, lit his grill and told his daughter, “Go around and invite all our neighbors to come over and join us!”

Instead of announcing a feast, his daughter went down the street and shouted, “Help! Help! There’s a fire at our house! Please come and help us put it out!”

One by one, a handful of people opened their doors and came out ready to help. The rest of the neighborhood ignored her plea.

She brought the helpful neighbors home and explained that there was no fire, just a feast that her father wanted to share. The neighbors ate and drank until late in the night and went home thanking the farmer for his generosity.

After they left the farmer asked, “Who were those people? I barely recognized any of them.”

The daughter smiled and said, “Those are the people who were willing to come to your aid when you needed help. They are your true friends.”

How many good friends do you have like this? Good friends are like toothpaste. They come through in a tight squeeze.

I heard this quote from my good friend Muhammad Ali: “Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It’s not

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15

something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’t learned anything.”

Friendship is so important that we celebrate it several times during the year. February is International Friendship Month, and Old Friends, New Friends Week is the third week of May. Congress declared a U.S. holiday in honor of friends by a proclamation in 1935. Since then, World Friendship Day is celebrated every year on the first Sunday of August. And September is Friendship Month.

Aristotle viewed friendship among the highest virtues. It was an essential element in a full, virtuous and worthwhile life. He identified three kinds of friendship:

• Friendship of pleasure – two people are wonderfully happy in each other’s company.

• Friendship of utility – two people assist one another in everyday aspects of life.

• Friendship of virtue – two people mutually admire one another and will be on best behavior in order not to jeopardize their relationship.

We need all three kinds of friends. Chances are we have some in each category, as well as friends who meet all the criteria.

I have friends whom I’ve known since I was a little boy, friends from college, friends who started out as business contacts, golfing friends, friends who share my passion for community service and friends I met last week. And they all have one thing in common: We like each other for what we are, not what we want each other to be. Friendship is a responsibility – not an opportunity.

If you value your relationships with friends, you need to work to maintain it. Take a few cues from your job for evaluating your

Harvey Mackay

priorities and scheduling your activities. These “friendships of pleasure” are worth all the effort you put into them. If you make friendship a habit, you will always have friends.

Time management is just as important for friendships as for your business schedule. Keep all your commitments with family and friends on one calendar, planner or smartphone so nothing falls through the cracks. This is especially important for friendships of utility. Being available when your friends need you, or when you need help, demonstrates that you are reliable and understand that the relationship is a two-way street.

Spend some time planning your personal time. Review your schedule so that you are prepared for your most important activities. Honor your plans. When you must choose between events, decide which is more in line with your mission, values and goals.

Friendships of virtue are both sturdy and fragile. These friends are willing to cut you some slack if you are having a bad day. And in order to maintain that good relationship,

Harvey Mackay continued to pg 3

Minnesota Darkhouse & Angling Association Heartland Chapter Meeting February 16th at The Pioneer Inn, Freeport, MN 6:30 PM Social 7:30 PM Meeting Public Welcome!

Upcoming Events

• Albany Legion Post 482 Smorgasbord Breakfast from 8 a.m.-noon at Church of Seven Dolors Parish Hall, Albany. See ad on page 3.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16

• Minnesota Darkhouse & Angling Association Heartland Chapter Meeting starting at 6:30 p.m. at The Pioneer Inn, Freeport. See ad on page 2.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19

• Grey Eagle Senior Center Meeting at 11:30 a.m. Potluck & Bingo to follow.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21

• 21st Annual Grey Eagle-Burtrum Lions Race On Trace starting at 11 a.m. on Trace Lake, Grey Eagle.

• Sobieski & Swanille Lions Club 33rd Annual Fishing Contest & Raffle. 12-3 p.m. on Long Lake, Swanville. See ad on page 7.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22

• Catholic United Financial Matching Grant Fundraiser Breakfast from 9 a.m.12:30 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church Basement. See ad on page 5.

SUNDAY, MARCH 15

• Skywarn Spotter Training from 2-4 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church, Upsala.

SUNDAY, MARCH 22

• Spring Fundraiser Bake Sale, Lunch, Bingo & Raffle starting at 11 a.m. at St. John’s Church Basement, Meire Grove.

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.

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.

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 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 7 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

Post D-day

D-day is an occasion that many Americans recognize. It was the time when British, Canadian and American troops waded and swam to the beach at Normandy to face a long beach travel with no protection from the German guns on the cliffs above them. They were able to secure the German positions by manually tossing explosive weapons into the concrete gun emplacement locations that were protected from shelling from the Allied Navies. After securing the beach-head, Allied troop landings amounted to over 875,000 for the month of June. Another 13,000 airborne troops were dropped into Normandy farmlands east of the D-day beach area. These landings were not as successful as had been hoped, since some parachutes landed in trees, in water, on buildings and far away from the landing locations.

After getting somewhat organized, the troops needed to advance against German troops that had taken up positions in the hedgerows between the fields and along the roads. The hedgerows were rows of dirt up to 15 feet high and planted with trees and brushy plants. If one crawled through them, you would be shot at by the entrenched German Patrols. A tank couldn’t climb over the hedgerows, so a solution needed to be found. First the engineers welded a blade in front of a tank, so it could plow through the hedgerow. Since a tank is not a caterpillar, that was too slow. Next the troops tried to dig an opening to place explosives in the hedgerow, again too slow. Then pipes and railroad tracks were welded to the front of

the tanks, which could create holes in which to place explosives, which did work. The tank would go through, followed by the troops. The tank would attack the machine gun locations and begin using it’s machine gun to catch the enemy running away, after which the troops would shoot at any survivors. This system seemed to work, but the German troops had coordinated the exact location of the breakthrough and began an artillery attack on that location. Not everything works all of the time.

The use of phosphorus by both the Allies and the Germans, proved to be a surefire way to get troops out of relatively secure locations. A tank shell with phosphorus was exploded in the air above the entrenched enemy. It would float down burning leaves, clothes or skin to which it made contact. The burns moving down into one’s body would cause the person extreme pain. How often this method was used is not known, however it is known that the Allies had much more in reserve than the Germans did.

Adolph Hitler had been able to take most of Europe, because his attacks were met with very little resistance. When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, he having thoughts of being invincible, declared war on the United States. We lost about 250,000 men in Europe, a ridiculously high price to pay, but the positive thing is that our homeland was spared from the destruction of war.

For feedback or story ideas, email Tom at kuehneins@gmail.com.

From the Desk of Pastor Bruce

I’ve been preaching from Colossians and just started chapter two. Colossians 2:2-3 says “My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, 3in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Paul wants to help the church with the “Mystery of God, namely, Christ.” So, my question in this article is how well do you know Christ? I put together a list of names (Characteristics) that are used for Jesus… read these slowly and let them sink in.

He is the Almighty One, the Alpha and Omega, the Righteous One. He is our Author and Perfecter of our Faith, and our Authority. He is the Bread of Life, and the beloved Son of God. He is the Bridegroom, Chief Cornerstone, Our Deliverer and is Faithful and True. He is the Good Shepherd and is our High Priest, the Head of the Church. He is our Holy Servant and is the Great “I AM”. He is our Immanuel and Indescribable Gift. He is the Judge and King of Kings and is the Lamb of God. He is the Light of the World and the Lion of Judah. He is the Lord of all and our Mediator and Messiah. Jesus is the Mighty One and the One who sets us Free, He is our Hope and Peace and our Prophet.

Jesus is our Redeemer and Risen Lord, our Rock and is the Sacrifice for our sins. He is our Savior, the Son of Man and Son of the Most High. He is the Supreme Creator overall and Resurrection and Life. He is the Door, the Way, the Word, and TRUTH. He is the Victorious One, the wonderful Counselor, Mighty

Valentine’s Weekend

God, Everlasting Father and the Prince of Peace.

How Well do you know Jesus? Most importantly, is He your Savior and Redeemer and is He Lord of your Life?

-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916

Harvey Mackay continued from pg 2 you will return that favor.

One of the best books I’ve ever read and learned valuable lessons from is Dale Carnegie’s “How to Win Friends and Influence People.” His advice is so helpful that I have made it a practice to reread this book every few years. Carnegie wrote: “You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.” Truer words were never spoken.

Mackay’s Moral: A friend in need is a friend indeed.

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.”

Todays Thought

VALENTINE’S SPECIALS

Joyce J. Larson

Memorial Services will be 1:00 PM Friday, March 20, 2026 at Community Covenant Church in Upsala for Joyce J. Larson. On Saturday, February 7, 2026, after doing laundry and finishing lunch, Joyce Joan Larson (Nelson) died peacefully in her sleep while napping. She was 92.

Joyce was born on a small farm near Turin, IA on December 13, 1933 to H. Raymond Nelson and Lenora Francis Lenander. She was an only child raised on that farmstead. She was valedictorian of her class of 24, where she met and married her husband of 65 years, Melvin. They moved to Ames, IA where Joyce worked at a bank while Mel completed college, and they ultimately moved to Wells, MN 1960, where they raised 2 sons, Scott and Ross. Joyce and Mel retired to Pine Lake near Upsala, MN in 1994 after building a home on the lake.

She was active in the Church in both Wells and Upsala, being in the choir (directing) and various boards and groups, and an organist and pianist for services. She was also active in the Upsala community, organizing and scheduling events at the Upsala Recreation building.

Her hobbies included gardening, sewing, reading, antiques, and baking cookies. Joyce enjoyed a hot cup of tea, but mostly she loved her grandchildren and spending time with family.

She is survived by her son Scott and his wife Joni, son Ross, grandchildren Aaron, Cassie and Kaity, and great-granddaughter Eastyn.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Melvin and grandson Bryan.

Darryl E. Wentland

Darryl Edward Wentland was born October 21st,1962 in Little Falls, MN to Louis and Eleanor Wentland. Darrly was one of 8 siblings that grew up on a farm in Holdingford, MN. Darryl attended Holdingford High School and graduated in 1980 where he participated in football and wrestling and even took the crown as Homecoming King. He went on to Willmar Votec to become very talented in welding.

Darryl married Carmen Yvonne Prokott on January 20th, 1990 in Bowlus, MN and together they raised 5 wonderful boys in Bowlus: Jordan (Heather) Wentland, Kyle (Hope) Wentland, Luke (Amanda) Wentland, Jake (Taylor) Wentland, and Cole Wentland. When Darryl wasn’t busy being the “fun” parent at home wrestling and playing football with the boys, he spent his days working various jobs in specialized and custom welding, doing anything and everything outdoors, and hosting any sort of get-together he could come up with. People will most certainly miss his kind heart, his goofy nature, and willingness to help everyone.

Darryl passed away on January 26th, 2026 at his home in Albany, MN.

Darryl is preceded in death by parents (Louis and Eleanor), his sisters (Debbie & Sharon Prokott) and survived by remaining siblings (Donny & Mary, Dale & Linda, Pat & Ann, Darice & Dan, Gary & Ann, Lori & Mike), Carmen Wentland, his children (Jordan & Heather, Kyle & Hope, Luke & Amanda, Jake & Taylor, Cole), and his 5 grandchildren (Emma, Brady, Liam, Amelia, Andrew).

A celebration of life will be held at the Bowlus Community Center on Monday, February 16th, 2026 from 12:00-6:00. The family would like to welcome everyone to share memories, stories, and prayers starting at 3:00.

Juleen M. Scegura

Juleen

Marie (Harren)

Scegura, age 69, of Holdingford, Minnesota, passed away on Friday, February 6 in the warmth of her own home, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous battle with breast cancer. She faced her illness with strength, grace, and unwavering faith. Her final moments reflected the same love, gentleness and resilience that defined her entire life. A Mass of Christian Burial was Wednesday, February 11th at Immaculate Conception Church in St. Anna, with Rev. Fr. Gregory Mastey officiating. Interment followed at the parish cemetery.

She was born on August 28, 1956, in Alexandria, Minnesota, to Edmund and Irene (Herickhoff) Harren, and was the oldest and only daughter of eight children. Juleen grew up in rural Elrosa and rural Freeport. She attended Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School from 1962 to 1964. After the family moved to the Harren “home place,” she attended Upsala Public Schools, graduating in 1974. Juleen continued her education at St. Mary’s Junior College in Minneapolis and St. Cloud Business College. On October 1, 1977, she married Raymond J. Scegura at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in rural Freeport. Together, they made their home in the Holdingford area, where they spent their entire married life and raised two wonderful daughters. Over the years, Juleen worked at Fingerhut, Mother of Mercy Nursing Home, Holdingford Elementary School, and Minnesota Public Radio. She ultimately devoted 38½ years to Saint John’s University, serving in the Institutional Advancement Office. Her roles included Office Coordinator for the Annual Giving Office, Planned Giving Office, IA Communications Office, and finally the Development Office. While working full time, Juleen completed her undergraduate degree in Theology, graduating in 2015—an achievement she was especially proud of. Juleen was a devoted member of Immaculate Conception Church in St. Anna. She was active in Christian Women, served as a lector and cantor, sang in the choir, taught Faith Formation for many years, and assisted with Confirmation preparation. Her faith quietly shaped how she lived and served others. Juleen was strong and confident in her faith, and she was always eager to share it with her children, grandchildren, friends and neighbors. She took every opportunity to teach and talk about her faith, remaining steadfast and

determined to share it even in her final days. She loved to read and enjoyed being part of several book clubs. Juleen also gave generously of her time to her community, serving as Treasurer of the Holding Township Board from 1997 until her passing. Each summer, she and Ray raised a large garden, and she found joy in canning and freezing the bountiful harvest. Juleen was a skilled seamstress throughout her life—you could often find her patching jeans, mending zippers, sewing clothes for her daughters, or altering prom and wedding dresses for her children, grandchildren and several nieces. After retirement, she discovered a love for quilting and crocheting, continuing to create with the same care and attention she brought to everything she did.

She loved to travel and enjoyed exploring new places with Ray, with her daughters, and through tour groups. Her travels took her to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, France, Poland, Canada, Puerto Rico, Washington, D.C., and 26 states across the United States. This past summer she was able to check a final item off her bucket list by visiting Our Lady of Champion in Wisconsin, the only approved apparition site of the blessed Virgin Mary in the US. Family history was close to Juleen’s heart. She assisted her mother in writing the Herickhoff, Boecker, Rausch, and Stoermann family history books and helped update the Harren family tree, preserving generations of stories for her extended family.

Survivors include her husband, Ray Scegura of Holdingford, children: Katherine (Mark) Nienaber of Swanville and Marie (Mitch) Pangerl of St. Stephen, grandchildren: Adam, Anthony, and Monica Nienaber and Victoria and Elinor Pangerl. Siblings John (Lois) Harren, Barry (Colleen) Harren, Gregg (Nancy) Harren, David (Kathy) Harren, Michael (Shelly) Harren and James (Cheryl) Harren. In-laws: Sue Toenyan, Pat (Linus) Luethmers, Ron (Jane) Scegura, Syl Geise, Theresa (Tom) Studniski, David Scegura, Peter (Kathy) Scegura, Diane (Leroy) Hartung and James (Tammy) Scegura and many nieces and nephews.

Juleen was preceded in death by her infant brother Bruce Harren, parents Edmund and Irene Harren, In-laws Ludwig and Teckla Scegura, Mary Geise, John Scegura and Claude Toenyan.

Jacob Ainali caught this 52 inch sturgeon while fishing on Big Stone Lake by Ortonville. It put up a 45 minute fight. Submitted by Justin Ainali.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

By Barb Dinkel Goodrich, Hands of Hope Resource Center

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, a time to address an issue that affects far too many young people. Research shows that 1 in 3 teens in the U.S. will experience some form of dating abuse—whether emotional, verbal, physical, or digital—before adulthood.

One of the most powerful ways to prevent dating violence is by teaching healthy relationship skills:

Boundaries: Boundaries are personal limits that protect emotional and physical well-being. They might include how much time teens spend together, how they communicate, and what behaviors are acceptable.

Trust: Trust is built when both partners respect those boundaries, communicate honestly, and show reliability over time.

Unfortunately, many teens are never taught how to set boundaries or recognize when they are being crossed. This can leave them vulnerable to manipulation, control, or abuse. It is important that parents, and educators have open, judgment-free conversations with teens about what respect looks like when dating. Today’s teens deserve relationships rooted in respect, trust, and safety. This month let’s commit to raising awareness, and empowering young people to set boundaries and expect nothing less than kindness and respect from their partners. Awareness is the first step toward prevention – let’s take it together.

If you or someone you know would like additional information regarding teen dating violence, or just want to talk, contact Hands of Hope Resource Center at 320-732-2319 or 800-682-4547.

Anniversary Open House

Dale and Linda Hurd

Dale and Linda Hurd would like all their friends, neighbors and family to help them celebrate their 50th anniversary on Saturday, February 21 at the Greenwald Pub from 1:00-4:00 p.m. No cards sent.

Seeds are Here!

NEVILLE HARDWARE

A Syndrome Funny

A fellow took a new job in a hilly Eastern city. His commute was a tiring array of tunnels, bridges, and traffic jams. Thinking to make the trip more bearable, he invited some coworkers to share the ride. However, the commute actually got more stressful, especially the trips through the tunnels. He consulted the company doctor.

“Doc,” the frustrated commuter complained, “I’m fine on the bridges, in the traffic, in the day and at night, and even when Joe forgets to bathe all week. But when I get in the tunnels with those four other guys crowded into the car, I get anxious and dizzy, and I feel like I’m going to explode! What is it, Doc? Am I going insane?”

“No, no, no,” said the doctor. “This problem is actually quite common.”

“Tell me! What is it?”

“You have what is known as Carpool Tunnel Syndrome.”

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, My wife and I have paid off all of our credit card debt, but she doesn’t want to follow your suggestion to cut up the cards and close the accounts. She wants us to keep the cards in a safe deposit box at the bank, and use them for nothing but emergencies. I think this has something to do with the fact she grew up in a poor family. We’re doing okay, but it makes me wonder if some part of her is afraid of being poor again. We both know this isn’t what you recommend, but what can I do to convince her we should get rid of the credit cards once and for all? -Geoff

Dear Geoff,

Honestly, I’m not sure I’d approach this with the idea of convincing her of something. Under the circumstances, maybe it’d be a better idea to start off by having a gentle, understanding conversation, and talking things through.

I say this because one of the things you mentioned is that she grew up poor. In my mind, this could mean that the credit cards represent security for her. But, if you had $10,000 or so set aside for emergencies, you’d have the security of knowing that a transmission repair, or a new water heater wouldn’t really be an emergency—it’d be

reduced to a minor inconvenience. On top of that, having an actual cash emergency fund sitting there would mean you wouldn’t have to go right back into debt again when something goes wrong.

There are lots of deep emotions involved in this situation, Geoff. Let her know you understand her concerns, and that you respect and sympathize with everything she has experienced. But also explain how financial security wouldn’t be disappearing by doing this. The credit cards would be replaced by your very own money. In addition, you’d also be substituting what the credit cards do with a debit card.

After this, ask her if there’s a reasonable amount you two could have in the bank that would make her feel comfortable, and take away the worry and stress. Talk it out, see if you can settle on an amount, and then agree that when you’ve saved and hit that number, the cards get cut up and you close the account.

You’ll have to be patient and understanding. Above all, you’ll have to communicate and work together as a team on this. But trust me, it’ll be worth it!

-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.”

Albany Senior Dining

Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070

Mon., Feb. 16: Pork tenderloin, cheesy potatoes, vegetable Normandy, cookie, bread.

Tues., Feb. 17: Chicken alfredo, noodles, Scandinavia vegetables, cake.

Wed., Feb. 18: Tilapia, rice pilaf, broccoli, bread.

Thurs., Feb. 19: Tater tot hotdish, mandarin oranges, cookie, bread.

Fri., Feb. 20: Meatless lasagna roll ups, peas, peaches, cookie, bread. Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.

Ask The Motor Medics®

From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.

Dear Motor Medics, I’ve got a 2006 GMC Yukon with a bad A/C leak. I have refilled it each summer for the past couple years with the leak going unfound but now it has become quite large and they have finally found it. the leak is coming from the rear A/C lines that run under the vehicle just over the passenger side rear tire. They tell me the rocks from the tire have caused abrasion of the line and the only way to fix it is to replace the entire line set. The cost of repairs for the lines is over $1000.00 and I am looking for alternatives to get my air back. Do you have any suggestions for me?

-Tom in Philadelphia, PA

Dear Tom,

If the lines only have a leak in the one spot just over the tire then you may be in luck. There are now line repair kits that can install a splice into the line where it is damaged. If the line has extensive damage over a significant area it can’t be done but for a short one foot or less section which is very common on your model at that location it is a possibility that it can be done. If your shop won’t do it check around for one that will. You may find your repair costs cut by more than half and in the game of auto repairing every dollar you can save is a blessing.

-Take care, The Motor Medics Dear Motor Medics,

My Dodge Caravan is doing a strange thing. Over the past six months it has had random ghosts in it and my kids say its possessed and I’m starting to think so myself. First the cruise control would shut off by itself, then the radio would change stations on its own and the volume would go all the way up without anyone touching it. That was just the beginning. My horn has not worked for two months but now when I’m turning it sometimes honks by itself and

THE JUNCTION

the people in front of me think I’m honking at them. This morning the air bag light came on too so I’m waiting for it to blow off in my face as I drive so I’m at my wits end. Where do I go from here?

-Gina in Okmulgee, Oklahoma Dear Gina, It is possessed, next email please. Just kidding. It sounds like the old failed clock spring issue. There is a sliding contactor in the steering column that makes all electrical connection for everything in the steering wheel by way of a flat cable wrapped up like a clock spring. If the cable breaks down with age it can short together and cause all sorts of weird stuff to happen and in the case of the air bag can be dangerous. There were some free safety recalls from Dodge on a few so call them to check but get in for repairs fast.

-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

Upsala City • February 2, 2026

Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com remove Kevin Breth as an authorized signer and to add Wendy Rene and Rollie Johnson as authorized signers, 2nd by Vieth. Motion carried unanimously.

Call to Order/Attendance: The City Council meeting was called to order at Upsala City Hall by Mayor Pro Tem Wendy Rene at 7:00 P.M. The pledge of allegiance was said.

On roll call members present: Council Members Wendy Rene, Logan Vieth, and Alan Gunderson. Absent: Joan Olson. Staff present: City Clerk-Treasurer Jane Popp & Public Works Director-Mike Tschida.

Minutes: Gunderson moved to approve minutes from January 5, 2026, City Council Meeting, 2nd by Vieth. Motion carried unanimously.

Added agenda items: Vieth moved to approve the agenda as presented with the addition of the CUP at 120 Basswood Ave, 2nd by Gunderson. Motion carried unanimously.

Presentations: Karin Nelson with Nelson Insurance discussed the value of the buildings.

Department Reports: Fire Department Report Chief Nicholas Johnson was absent, and Popp reported three calls for January. The new members are well in their training and should be finished at the end of March or first part of April. The new structure firefighting gear has arrived and has been put in service.

First Response Team: First Response Team Vice President Haus reported seven calls for January. Applications are open until February 20, 2026. The meat raffle is the 3rd Saturday of the month, and the next meat raffle is February 21, 2026, at 7:00 pm Buffy’s with the horse races for fire.

Maintenance Report: Tschida reported on water and sewer levels as well as the various tasks done throughout the city. Tschida stated a watermain break on Maple Avenue. Tschida was able to shut off valves and council discussed to wait until Spring.

City Office Report: Popp reviewed the February Calendar.

Planning Commission: Planning & Zoning commission are working on patio home development.

Heritage Days: The next meeting is February 11, 2026.

New Business: Resolution 2-2-26-1 Resignation of Mayor Vieth moved to approve Resolution 2-2-26-1 the Resignation of Mayor, 2nd by Gunderson. Motion carried unanimously.

Appoint a Mayor: Gunderson moved to approve to appoint Rollie Johnson as interim Mayor to the end of 2026, 2nd by Vieth. Motion carried unanimously.

Authorized Signers: Gunderson moved to

Liquor License- Buffy’s Bar & Grill LLC: Vieth moved to approve the liquor license for Buffy’s Bar & Grill, 2nd by Gunderson. Motion carried unanimously.

Liquor License- Upsala Ball Park Association: Gunderson moved to approve the liquor license to Upsala Ball Park Association, 2nd by Vieth. Motion carried unanimously.

Bollig Engineering Agreement Task Order: Gunderson moved to approve the Bollig Engineering Agreement Task Order, 2nd by Vieth. Motion carried unanimously. Bollig Engineering Task Order 1 Vieth moved to approve the Bollig Engineering Task Order 1, 2nd by Gunderson. Motion carried unanimously.

Temporary Liquor License for Upsala Ball Park Association 8-8-2026: Gunderson moved to approve the Temporary Liquor License for the Upsala Ball Park Association on 8-8-2026, 2nd by Vieth. Motion carried unanimously. Gambling Permit – Upsala Ball Park Association 8-8-2026: Vieth moved to approve the Gambling Permit for the Upsala Ball Park Association with no waiting period, 2nd by Gunderson. Motion carried unanimously.

Added Agenda Items: The Council approved the transfer of a conditional use permit to the new owners of the property at 120 Basswood Avenue. The new owners need to contact the County for the rental of the entire house.

Financials: Vieth moved to approve the bills as presented, 2nd by Gunderson. Motion carried unanimously.

Updates/FYI: Next Regular City Council Meeting will be March 2 at 7:00 pm.

Adjourn: Gunderson moved to adjourn at 8:16 pm, 2nd by Vieth. Motion carried unanimously.

Jane Popp, Clerk/Treasurer

DK’S Tree & Landscaping, LLC.

MILLWOOD TOWNSHIP NOTICE

February 23, 2026, at 8:00

NOTICE is hereby given that a public accuracy test of the election equipment to be used at the March 10, 2026 Township Election for Stearns County, will be held Saturday, March 7th at 9:30 AM. The test will be conducted at the Town Hall, 41248 County Road 13, Melrose, MN.

Cindy Willman, Melrose Township Clerk • 612-280-0595

MELROSE TOWNSHIP

NOTICE OF ELECTION AND ANNUAL MEETING

Notice is hereby given to qualified voters that the Annual Township Election and Meeting will be held at the Town Hall, 41248 County Road 13, Melrose, MN on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. The election polls will be open from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for the purpose of electing:

One Supervisor, for the term of 3 years

The Annual Meeting will begin at 8:15 p.m. after the polls close.

The Board of Canvass will convene following the Annual Meeting to certify the official election results.

In the event of inclement weather, the election and Annual Meeting will be held on March 17, 2026, at the above time and location.

The Town Hall will be open on Saturday, March 7, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for absentee voting.

Cindy Willman, Melrose Township Clerk • 612-280-0595

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WANTED TO BUY: Butcher cows, bulls, fats & walkable cripples: also horses, sheep & goats. 320-235-2664. SC-odB

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.

FOR SALE: Hay. Call 320-632-8976.

FOR SALE: Wedding dress. Duo-Art player piano with piano rolls. 1903 grandfather clock. Vintage fishing rods, reels & musky lures. Vintage steamer trunks. 320-255-9519

GUEST HOUSE

FOR SALE: 4- LT 245-75-16’s tires mounted and balanced on ‘95 Chevy aluminum rims. Call 320-250-6859.

FOR SALE: Bedroom set, loveseat, end tables, entertainment center. Good condition. Call 320-248-3610.

FOR SALE: Puppies, mixed breed, 13 weeks old; up to date on vet, $50. Call/text 320-250-0380.

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25+ Years Experience - Exceptional Quality • Hardwood • Laminate • Tile & Custom Showers • Snap Together Vinyl Products New House Discount - Qualifications Required

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