Hometown News May 14, 2026

Hometown News

Wear a smile – one size fits all -By Harvey Mackay

The Hometown News is a free weekly publication, which is published and distributed every Thursday. Free Distribution In: Albany Avon Bowlus Burtrum Elmdale Freeport Greenwald Grey Eagle Holdingford Meire Grove Long Prairie Melrose New Munich St. Anna St. Rosa Sauk Centre Swanville Upsala

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Smiling is infectious; you catch it like the flu. When someone smiled at me today, I started smiling, too.

I passed around the corner, and someone saw my grin, When he smiled, I realized I’d passed it on to him.

I thought about that smile, then I realized its worth.

A single smile, just like mine, could travel round the earth.

So, if you feel a smile begin, don’t leave it undetected –

Let’s start an epidemic quick and get the world infected!

I found this little poem about the power of a smile and discovered that at least six people have taken credit for it, but it’s worth sharing in any event.

I learned years ago that one of the most powerful things you can do to have influence over others is to smile at them. I’m a big believer in the Jewish proverbs: “Don’t open a shop unless you know how to smile.” And “The man who gives little with a smile, gives more than the man who gives much with a frown.”

That’s why I never underestimate the value of a smile. It should be standard equipment for all people. You shouldn’t come to work without a smile . . . and that goes for

your personal life too.

Mother Teresa said, “We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do.”

Smiling is so important that there is a month, week and day devoted to it. National Smile Month this year is May 13-June 13, and National Smile Day is May 31. National Smile Week is always the second week in August.

Many people pay thousands of dollars for a face-lift to improve their appearance. A smile improves your looks instantly and takes years off your appearance.

My mother used to always tell me that a smile is an inexpensive way to improve my looks. She also told me, “If you’re happy, tell your face.”

George Eliot, English novelist and poet, said, “Wear a smile and have friends; wear a scowl and have wrinkles.”

Everything seems much easier with a smile. Maybe that’s why it takes only 17 muscles to smile and 43 to frown. Smiling is the universal language. People like smiles a lot more than frowns.

Amazon has one of the most famous logos in business and has a yellow curved line with an arrow representing a smile. It suggests the company’s commitment to bringing joy to customers.

Fourteen Foods operates more than 220 DQ Grill & Chill and Dairy Queen Braziers restaurants across several states, including Alabama, Florida and Wisconsin. The company is based in Bloomington, Minn., and its mission is to “build people and profits, one smile and story at a time.” Their goal is to “support our communities, one red spoon and smile at a time.” Restaurant employees

are called smile servers.

In fact, many companies have incorporated a smile into their logos, such as Colgate, Danone, Bledina, Gearbest, Kraft Foods, Hasbro, Crayola, Argos, Goodwill, Licious and IHOP. Other company logos feature people smiling, such as Wendy’s, Chef Boyardee, Vegeta, KFC and Starbucks. Kraft Mac & Cheese took things a step further and turned a macaroni noodle into a smile.

Sam Walton, founder of Wal-Mart, also knew the value of a smile. He used to ask his associates to raise their right hands and execute a pledge, keeping in mind that “a promise we make is a promise we keep.”

The pledge: “From this day forward, I solemnly promise and declare that every customer that comes within ten feet of me, I will smile at, look them in the eye, and greet them, so help me Sam.”

I once found myself in a tense negotiation with a prospective client. Both sides had their demands, and the atmosphere was as stiff as a boardroom table. I knew I needed to break the ice to move things forward.

Upcoming Events

SATURDAY, MAY 16

• Clean Up Day for Burnhamville Township Residents from 9-11 a.m. in Burtrum. See ad on page 7.

• Big Swan Lake Improvement Association Meeting at 10 a.m. at the Hub Supper Club, Burtrum.

SUNDAY, MAY 17

• Breakfast from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, St. Francis. See ad on page 4.

THURSDAY, MAY 21

• Grey Eagle Senior Center Meeting at 4:30 p.m. Potluck & Bingo to follow.

FRIDAY, MAY 22

• National Poppy Day: Upsala American Legion Auxiliary Unit 350 Poppy Distribution from 6 a.m.-7 p.m. at Lange Oil, Upsala. MEMORIAL DAY • MAY 25

• Grey Eagle/Burtrum: 7:30 a.m. Blessing at Grey Eagle Veterans Memorial. 8:30 a.m. St. Joseph’s Cemetery Program. 9:15 a.m. Grey Eagle Parade. 10:15 a.m. Lakeview Cemetery Program. 11 a.m. Burtrum Parade & Moses Dane Cemetery Program. See ad on page 5.

• Upsala American Legion Post 350 & Auxiliary Unit 350 Memorial Day Commemoration at 10 a.m. at the Upsala Area Schools Gymnasium.

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.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3

• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle.

MONDAY, JUNE 8

• Great River Regional Library Summer Reading Challenge begins. June 8-August 8.

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

Summer Fun

This time of the year is the start of something certain individuals dream about all winter. Golf. It offers a chance to get some exercise along with the relief of frustration by smacking a little ball with a big club and hopefully having it fly in the desired direction.

My desire to go golfing ended on July 19, 1969. It was a beautiful day at Tan Tara Golf Course in Missouri. Being from Minnesota, I went to the course in a T-shirt and short pants. Hopefully, this attire would make me feel cooler in the hot Missouri weather. The first 16 holes went OK, but I could feel my legs getting quite hot. Oh well, there are only two holes left and then I can get into air conditioning and cool off. A really good plan.

The first ball I smacked from the T on the 16th hole took a serious right turn and landed about 30 feet from the fairway. The second ball followed the first, heading in the same general direction. The third ball took a more defined curve to the right. In that area, one does not enter the grass to retrieve a ball, since the grassy areas have a large population of CottonMouth and RattleSnakes. I really don’t like snakes.

I was uncomfortably hot, my legs were burning and I had my fill of the enjoyment of golf. I picked up my clubs, and decided to allow others the opportunity to enjoy the game. I walked to the club-house and had a beer. My legs still felt like they were on fire. The next day my legs still hurt and they had developed bags of fluid under the skin. They were uncomfortable for a week. My wife, my social director, thought I should get some

medical attention. I decided otherwise and had an uncomfortable trip back up here to God’s Country. I felt that complaining about being uncomfortable would cause some “I told you so’s”. There are times when it is best to discuss the scenery and complain about other drivers. Anyway, I sold the clubs and feel I have eliminated another frustration from my life.

I then began to spend more free time fishing. I recall a fishing trip to Canada when one of the guys I was with had a bad trip. First he fell in the lake when the boat moved away from the dock and he had one foot on the dock and the other one in the boat. The next day there was a fair wind blowing and his tackle box fell off the seat, came open and spread it’s contents on the floor of the boat. His next fishing fun was when we were heading to another fishing spot. The wind was blowing and he had his tackle box open when the boat hit a fairly large wave, bounced up and sent the contents of his tackle box flying. A lot of his tackle landed on him. There he was hooked to a lot of his tackle. He wasn’t happy.

Sometimes having fun isn’t all fun.

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

Harvey Mackay continued from pg 2

As we sat down, I noticed a small, whimsical figurine on the client’s desk – a tiny, smiling frog. I pointed to it and said with a grin, “I see your secret weapon for negotiations is a smiling frog. I should have brought my own!”

This unexpected comment brought a smile to the client’s face, and the tension in the room eased considerably. We both chuckled, and that small moment of shared humor set a positive tone for the rest of the meeting. The negotiations proceeded smoothly, and we reached a mutually beneficial agreement.

Mackay’s Moral: Everyone smiles in the same language.

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.”

Card of Thanks

Family of Wilbert Poepping

From the Desk of Pastor Bruce

A question was asked of me the other day, and it has taken over my thoughts. The question went something like, “Have you ever thought about the second you get to heaven? Will you remember all the bad things in this world?” I think of heaven often, what a place to be and to look forward to.

The things in this life consume our thoughts! All the pain, death, tragedies, violence, aches and pains, weather, jobs, friends and relatives… all these things we think about here on this side of heaven! But what about when we get to glory, what about then? Revelation 21:4 says “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

I’m not sure how to answer this question! My first response is, it’s not going to matter anymore because there won’t be any of those issues anymore. Jesus gives us the hope that we are looking for in John 16:2022 “Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born, she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” Jesus gives us the reassurance that when we get to heaven, all our pain and sorrow will be gone, will we remember, maybe, but I believe it will be just a wisp of memory.

On the other hand, many people worry about what comes after death. Jesus died, so we don’t have to, Jesus rose from the dead and conquered death for all who have put their trust in Him, will live with Him in eternity. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 (NLT) “And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.”

Here is a question to ponder this week. Have you put your trust in Jesus? If so, then you have the hope of eternal life, full of joy!

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

Susan Luella Isaacson

Susan Luella (Loecken) Isaacson died unexpectedly on November 18, 2025 at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, Minnesota at the age of 74. Sue attended High School at Melrose High School graduating in the Spring of 1969. She married Jerome Johnson in September 1970 and they had two sons, Zachary and Nathan. They divorced and she married Gerald Issacson in 1988. Gerald passed away November 26, 2021.

Susan enjoyed arts and crafts and spending time with her late husband, Gerry Isaacson’s family property in Northern Minnesota. Sue worked various jobs over the years with the latest at JCPenney in Coon Rapids where she made new friends and acquaintances. Sue faced life with resilience, offering support and encouragement to those around her. She will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Survivors include her sons, Zachary (Mitch) of Forest Lake; Nathan (Cassandra) of Blaine and Granddaughter, Gemma Lu. Brothers; Jerry (JoAnn) Loecken of Chaska, Ron Loecken of Forest Lake, Jim (Mary) Loecken of Melrose, Chuck (Angie) Loecken of St. Joseph. Sisters; Shirley (John) Adrian of Albany and Janet “Nettie” Spaeth of Melrose and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald; parents, Alphonse and Lucille (Hinnenkamp) Loecken, Sister; Rosie (Loecken) Breth and husband, Richard Breth. Sister-in-law Nancy (Nelson) Loecken; brother-in-law Paul Spaeth.

Vernon L.

Hollermann

Vernon L. “Vern” Hollermann, age 86 of Melrose, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday, May 11, 2026 at the Cura Care Center in Melrose, Minnesota. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 14, 2026 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Mitchell

Bechtold officiating. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery.

Visitation will be from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday at the church.

Vernon Louis Hollermann was born October 12, 1939 in Melrose, Minnesota to Henry and Eleanor (Wiener) Hollermann. Vern lived his entire life in Melrose where he met love of his life, Barb Andres, in high school. Vern and Barb were united in marriage on May 21, 1960 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose.

Vern began working in the family business, Hollermann Manufacturing, where he helped build pews for many Catholic churches throughout the central Minnesota area. He later worked as a residential and commercial painter before becoming the religious education coordinator for St. Mary’s Church and School from 1992-2004. He enjoyed many years of camping with his family and camping club, as well as building and flying remote-controlled airplanes. His true passion, however, was woodworking, especially intarsia. He could often be found spending countless hours in his workshop crafting beautiful and intricate intarsia artwork.

Vern is survived by his children, Mike (Val) Hollermann of Cold Spring, Steve (Deb) Hollermann of Milaca, Deb (Ernie) Bielefeld of Princeton, and Scott (Megan) Hollermann of Ponsford; eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; sisters, Sister Ephrem Hollermann, O.S.B, and Betty Schloemer.

Vern was preceded in death by his wife, Barb on June 30, 2022; his parents; brothers, Robert “Bob” Hollermann and Harold “Harry” Hollermann; sister-in-law, Flo Hollermann; and brothers-in-law Bernie Schloemer, Curt Andres, Mark Andres, and Al Lewis.

Clemens Ignatius Solarz

Clemens

“Clem” Ignatius Solarz, 89, of Duluth MN, passed away on April 24 2026 at Viewcrest Nursing Home.

Clemens was born in Holdingford, MN to Zachary and Mary Solarz on July 28, 1936. He went to high school in Holdingford and graduated in 1953. He was enlisted with the Coast Guard for 22 years ending his career as deck chief on the USCG Cutter Woodrush, retiring after conducting a search mission for the Edmund Fitzgerald. After retiring from the Coast Guard, he worked another 22 years for the Duluth Transit Authority. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping in his RV in Bayfield, WI and home landscaping.

Clemens was preceded in death by his father Zachary, mother Mary, brothers Theophil, Herman, Felix, Theodore and sisters Emily and Celia.

Clemens is survived by his wife of 68 years Gale Solarz. He is also survived by his children Todd and Cory (Maria) Solarz. Grandchildren Danny, Derek, Alex, Spencer, Avrey, Madison, Reitan and Holden. Great grandchildren William, Kailee, Mathew, many nieces and nephews as well as his dog, Woody.

As per his wishes, no services will be held.

Helen A. Hardwig

Thomas P. McCoy

Thomas P.

“Tom” McCoy, age 51 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on Monday, May 11, 2026 at the Cura Care Center in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. A Requiem Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 16 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Waite Park with Father Brady Keller as the celebrant. A luncheon will immediately follow in the basement gathering area at St. Joseph’s. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Sauk Centre at 2:30 p.m. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Sauk Centre.

Thomas Patrick McCoy was born December 6, 1974 in Sauk Centre, Minnesota to Brian and Shirley (Taufen) McCoy. He graduated from St. Jude’s Academy near Long Prairie, Minnesota in 1992, after which he studied printing press operations at Staples Community College. Over the years he worked as a printing press operator at Sauk Centre Web Printing in Sauk Centre, MN, and at May Printing and Park Press in St. Cloud. More recently he worked in various roles at Lind-Rite Precision Inc. in Osakis, Minnesota.

• Take down & cleanup of

• Mobile Concrete Crushing

• Fully Insured 507-236-9446 topdownsilo.com

Memorials can be made to the St. Mary’s Catholic School Endowment Fund.

Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.

NANCY’S BAIT & TACKLE

MONDAY-SATURDAY: 7 AM-7 PM SUNDAY: 8 AM-4

Helen Ann Hardwig, age 79, of Avon, Minnesota, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at the St. Cloud Hospital on Thursday, May 7, 2026. A celebration of Helen’s life will be held at a later date.

Helen was born on January 13, 1947 to Theodore Dibblee Sr. and Elsie M. Terwey in St. Cloud, Minnesota. She was married to Thomas J. Hardwig on September 10, 1966 in St. Cloud. They settled in St. Cloud together, where they were blessed to have two children. Helen worked for Fingerhut, Tom Thumb, and Catherine’s throughout her life. She loved crafting, including: scrapbooking, craft fairs, and other creative outlets. She enjoyed Bingo and attended every Wednesday. She enjoyed camping, BBQs, and family reunions. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas, who passed away December 13, 2008; her parents; siblings, Delphine Utz, Dorethy White, Kathy Seitz, Pat Dibblee, Randy Dibblee, Mary Lou Williams.

She is survived by her daughter, Sheila (Daniel Ziemer) Rakotz; son, Brian (Penny) Hardwig; siblings, Michael Dibblee, Bob Dibblee, Ted Dibblee, Jim Dibblee; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and wonderful nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Tom had many loves, foremost among them being anything to do with Mopar cars, socializing among friends with his favorite Guinness, and fine foods. Family and friends well remember his mastery of grilling, and deep-fried turkeys.

In his younger days Tom had a passion for riding bike, collecting baseball cards and following the Minnesota Twins - a passion born from the excitement of the 1987 World Series victory, and continued through his final days.

Survivors include his parents, Brian and Shirley McCoy of Sauk Centre; brothers and sisters, Dan (Rhonda) McCoy of St. Martin, Greg McCoy of Waite Park, Michelle (Jim) Hoeper of Villard, Mark McCoy of Sauk Centre, Maria (Chris) Dvorak of Watkins, Martin McCoy of Sauk Centre, and Matt (Crystal) McCoy of Sauk Centre; and several God-children, among his 23 nieces and nephews and 18 great-nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Eileen (Wayne) Wittkop; sister, Patricia “Patty” McCoy; grand-parents, Ronald and Marie McCoy and Wilfred and Hildegarde Taufen; and several uncles and aunts.

Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.

St. Francis of Assisi Church, St. Francis FREE

Upsala High School Announces its Top 5 Honor Students for

The top 5 honor graduates for 2026 at Upsala High School are:

Isaiah Sobiech of Swanville, is the son of Joe and Stacy Sobiech. During high school, he has participated in Varsity Baseball, Varsity Basketball-Captain, Football, Student Council, Concert Band, Pep Band, and also received the Excel Award for leadership. Isaiah has a 3.93 GPA and plans to attend Alexandria Community & Technical College for a degree in Marine, Motorcycle and Powersports. Sobiech has received the honor of Upsala Class of 2026 Valedictorian.

Aiden Brannan of Burtrum, is the son of Tad Brannan and Cindy Jacobs. During high school, he has participated in Knowledge Bowl, Concert Band, Pep Band, and National Honor Society. Brannan will attend Concordia College, Moorhead with a Presidential Scholarship. He is also graduating high school earning his Associate of Arts degree with High Honors from Central Lakes College. Aiden receives the honor of Upsala Class of 2026 Salutatorian, graduating with a 3.92 GPA.

Holly Johnson of Upsala, is the daughter of Jeff Johnson and Audrey and Conor Castle-Horsman. During her high school career, she has been involved in Concert Band, Pep Band, and FIRST Robotics. Holly plans to work after graduation. She has a 3.87 GPA.

the Class of 2026

Brayden Leners of Holdingford, is the son of Randy and Roxanne Leners. During his high school career, he has been involved in Varsity Football (CoCaptain), Varsity Baseball, Varsity Wrestling (CoCaptain), Student Council, and Concert Choir. He plans to attend Alexandria Community & Technical College for Law Enforcement.

Brayden has a 3.79 GPA.

Hannah Heesen of Upsala, is the daughter of Steve and Amanda Heesen. During her high school career, she has been involved in Concert Band, Pep Band, Varsity Basketball-(CoCaptain), Varsity Volleyball(CoCaptain), Varsity Softball, Upsala Mentor, Mentee Program, National Honor Society, and Student Council

Treasurer. Hannah plans to attend Central Lakes College, Brainerd for their Dental Hygienist program. She graduates with a 3.73 GPA.

Pulse on People

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Spring 2026 President’s List. The spring terms run from January to May.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.

Leoma ludwig of Holdingford, Pitchanan Pittinanthapong of Freeport.

University of Jamestown: The students below were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2026 semester at the University of Jamestown.

Ezekial Austin of Albany, Elliott Burnett of Avon.

Retirement Open House

Apartment Fire on Main Street, Sauk Centre

On Monday, May 11th at 2350 hours an officer with the Sauk Centre Police Department was on routine patrol when he noticed smoke and flames coming from a two-story building on the 300 block of Main St S. He immediately called for the fire department to respond and with another officer they began evacuating apartments on the second level of the buildings.

The Sauk Centre Fire Department arrived on scene, made entry into the buildings and extinguished fire. Fire departments from Melrose, Long Prairie, Elrosa, and Osakis assisted on scene.

At this time, the investigation is ongoing.

Students are named to the list for a earning a 3.5 GPA while taking at least 12 credit hours for the semester.

In total, 5 apartments were evacuated with no injuries to any of the residents. Along with the apartments, 3 businesses sustained significant damage as well. Arrangements were made for all displaced tenants.

Also assisting on the scene were the Sauk Centre Ambulance, Stearns County Sheriff’s Office, Todd County Sheriff’s Office, Minne-

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 her siblings each inherited about $10,000 when their dad passed away. One of her siblings, who was named executor of the estate, told my wife that she plans to withhold the money from one of their siblings. She said it’s because she thinks she’s financially irresponsible. My wife and I don’t think this is the right thing to do, and we’re wondering if it’s even legal. Can you give us some answers?

-Mike

Dear Mike,

You and your wife are correct. What her sibling is planning isn’t right. On top of that, this person also doesn’t have the legal authority to withhold the money.

The reason a person is called the “executor” in these situations is because it’s

their sole job to execute the directives of the deceased person that are contained in the will. The executor isn’t a trust officer who gets to decide what’s best. An executor is there to make sure the directions in the will are followed. Period. It doesn’t matter what the executor thinks about the deceased’s wishes or if they agree with them.

When you pick the executor of your will, you should always make sure that person has the honesty and integrity to execute your will. Any executor who tries pulling something like this is liable to be sued by the person from whom they withheld an inheritance. And guess what? The person suing them would win, because the executor will have violated their fiduciary responsibility.

Mike, if you and your wife haven’t already spoken with the sibling who’s the executor, you need to do it now—before this thing gets too far out of hand. Sooner or later, someone in the family’s going to let it slip that one sibling did another one dirty where the will is concerned. Families talk. You know that, and I know that. It will happen.

And right now, this particular siblingexecutor is about to create a whole lot of trouble for themselves if they follow through with this dumb idea.

-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.”

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28916 County Rd. 17 - St. Rosa 320-836-2583

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Ask The Motor Medics®

From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.

Dear Motor Medics,

I listen to your show every week and hear that Chris has a Toyota Prius.

Welcome to the family Chris, I am a Prius owner too. I have found that we Prius owners are a varied bunch. Some of us drive them for the cool features, others for the “green” element of the car, and ones like me who just want the best mileage I can get and when I ran across the Prius it just seemed to fit at the time. There are so many things to learn though I could almost use a school on the thing. My question is about the mileage that has really dropped. I have about 30,000 miles on the car, and I bought new tires a month ago. The tires are the exact brand as I had before, but when I had them installed; I noticed an immediate change of almost 3 mpg less than before the tire change. Can there be something wrong with the tires that could cause this?

-Kelly in Lemmon, South Dakota

Dear Kelly,

Changing tires usually won’t make a noticeable difference but on a Prius every aspect of the car has been designed to help with fuel economy, so tires play a part in the mpg. When you purchase tires it’s important to go with low rolling resistance tires made for a hybrid. Also, once the tires have a thousand miles or so you should see the mileage increase.

-Take care, the Motor Medics Dear Motor Medics, I am moving up to the oil fields of North Dakota to work, and I am going to purchase a good used SUV before I go to replace my car. I have never needed a four-wheel drive before, but where I am moving it will be required to get to and from work every day. I have been looking at Jeeps Grand Cherokees and Trailblazers and some others in that size class and I’m really confused about the fourwheel drive on them. Some are all-wheel drive, some are 4-wheel drive, and some are both. What’s the difference?

-John in Sterling, Illinois

Dear John, This is a great question that we get

often on the radio show. All the systems you mentioned will do the same basic thing, move all four wheels through lost traction conditions. Which system you choose depends on how often you will use it and personal choice. All-wheel drive is just like it sounds, all the time the wheels are driven without the driver turning the system on which helps maintain traction at any time needed without driver input. 4-wheel drive has a switch to turn the system on and off and in the two-wheel drive position saves the most fuel, but it can’t be used on mostly dry ground like the all-wheel drive. Some Jeeps have both systems combined. Before you buy, read more detailed descriptions online that can help you choose.

-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 18: Soup, salad, bun, cake. Tues., May 19: Flatbread pizza, chicken alfredo, broccoli, brownie.

Wed., May 20: Spaghetti w/meat sauce, noodles, green beans, bun/breadstick, dessert.

Thurs., May 21: Chicken ala king over biscuit, pineapple, cookie. Fri., May 22: Cheeseburger, German potato salad, baked beans, cake.

Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.

Local Municipality Minutes

Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com tion passed.

Grey Eagle Township • May 4, 2026

Call to Order: Mike Rohe called the meeting to order at 8:00 pm. The pledge of allegiance was recited.

Present Board: Mike Rohe, John Young, Alan Roering and Christine Gagne. Also Present: Erv Herdering and Sharon Roering.

Agenda Approval: Mike presented a preliminary agenda and asked for additions or corrections. John moved to approve the agenda, with the following additions: 6(b) Review and discuss the estimate provided by Hinman Lawn Service for Tree Restoration Project. And, 6(c) Review and discuss the April 18th Road Check results, seconded by Alan. Mike called for a vote. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes: Mike presented the minutes from April 6th monthly meeting and asked if any corrections. John moved to approve the April 6th monthly meeting minutes, seconded by Alan. Mike called for a vote. Motion carried.

Approval of Equalization Minutes: Mike presented the minutes from April 8th Equalization Meeting and asked if any corrections. John moved to approve the April 8th Equalization Meeting Minutes, seconded by Alan. Mike called for a vote. Motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report: Christine reported the financials for the month of April, 2026:

-Beginning balance: $83,761.74

-Receipts: $188.20

-Disbursements: $14,217.77

-Ending Balance: $69,732.17

-Investment Balance: $190,302.52

John moved to accept the Treasurer’s report, seconded by Alan. Mike called for a vote. Motion carried.

Town Clerk Report: Christine presented April claims totaling $11,011.67. John moved to approve the payment of the claims, seconded by Alan. Mike called for a vote. Motion carried. Correspondence (mail and emails) were reviewed.

New Township Website Hosting: Alan moved to approve Hometown News to host the new Township website, seconded it by Mike. Mike called for a vote. Motion carried.

Road and Bridge:

Bid provided by Hinman Lawn Service for Beach Maintenance was reviewed. John moved to approve Hinman Lawn Service for Beach Maintenance for the year 2026, seconded by Alan. Mike called for a vote. Motion passed.

Bid provided by Hinman Lawn Service for Tree Restoration was reviewed. Alan made a motion to approve the addition of 15 - 5’ Black Hills Spruce Trees on 295th and Hinman Lawn Service to install them, seconded by John. Mike called for a vote. Mo-

May 6, 2026: At approximately 6:56 p.m., their office received a report of a man trapped in a trench at a residence off 70th Avenue, approximately three miles east of Upsala, MN in Elmdale Township.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, 64-year-old Andrew Langner of Holdingford, MN entered a trench to cut a waterline when a side wall collapsed, trapping him in the trench. Morrison County deputies along with Upsala Fire and Rescue were able to free Langner. He was transported to St. Cloud Hospital by North Air Care with unknown injuries.

The Morrison County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Upsala Fire and Rescue and North Memorial Air Care.

Two bids for the summer ditch mowing have been received so far and were reviewed by the board. Action on the ditch mowing bids for 2026 will be taken at the June 2026 meeting.

The board reviewed the April 18th Road Check results with Erv Herdering.

Public Comments: John asked for public comments. There were none.

Adjournment: John moved to adjourn, seconded by Alan, Mike called for a vote. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 8:53 PM.

Minutes pending approval as of May 4th, 2026

Christine Gagne, Clerk/Treasurer

Local Library Events

Albany Library • 320-845-4843

Storytime: Join us for a fun-filled storytime. We will read a story, have fun and learn. Books are geared to 3-6 year olds but younger and older friends are welcome! Registration required. Tuesday, May 19: 3:30 to 4:15 p.m.

R. E. A. D. with Freddie: Freddie the Golden Retriever loves books and wants to hear you read to him. Your children can build their reading confidence or just have fun reading to Freddie. Call or stop into the Albany Library to schedule your 10-minute reading session. For ages 5 to 12. Limit 5. Monday, May 18: 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Grey Eagle Library • 320-285-2505

Going to Bartalina: Songs & Stories of Great Lakes Sailing - Join COMPAS artist and songwriter Charlie Maguire for an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling inspired by life on the Great Lakes. Drawing from rare firsthand experiences aboard working vessels, Maguire shares authentic songs of shipwrecks, sailor life, and deep-water adventure. The program also features Gordon Lightfoot’s “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” and a preview of Maguire’s new Going to Bartalina album. For adults/teens. This program was made possible with Arts & Cultural Heritage Funds from Minnesota’s Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment. Monday, May 18: 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Long Prairie Library • 320-732-2332

Scandinavian Music with Project: Constellation - Project: Constellation’s Scandinavian music contribution picks up from where most people’s knowledge of the Swedish/Norwegian languages and culture seems to have left off, ca. 1890-today. Enjoy Swedish and Norwegian Children’s songs, Eurovision winners, 80s rock, contemporary, and more. For all ages. This program was made possible with Arts & Cultural Heritage Funds from Minnesota’s Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment. Friday, May 15: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Melrose Library • 320-256-3885

Game Night: Come to the library for an evening of friendly competition and fun. You can play the games we have or bring your own favorite game to share. For all ages. Limit 30. Registration required. Monday, May 18: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Upsala Library • 320-412-2048

Scandinavian Music with Project: Constellation - Project: Constellation’s Scandinavian music contribution picks up from where most people’s knowledge of the Swedish/Norwegian languages and culture seems to have left off, ca. 1890 - today. Enjoy Swedish and Norwegian Children’s songs, Eurovision winners, 80s rock, contemporary, and more. For all ages. This program was made possible with Arts & Cultural Heritage Funds from Minnesota’s Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment. Friday, May 15: 5:30 to 6:30 PM

CLEAN UP DAY

Burnhamville Township Residents

Saturday, May 16, 2026

Burtrum • 9 AM-11 AM

Residents of Burnhamville Township and Burtrum City may bring their old household items from this township or town in to dispose of them in a convenient manner. Old appliances, bulky furniture, TV, monitors, computers and tires will have a small fee. General garbage such as old wooden furniture, toys, doors, windows will be free to dispose of for Burnhamville and Burtrum residents. No hazardous wastes will be accepted. Shirley Hulinsky, Burnhamville Township Clerk

Todd County Offers Free Private Well Water Testing Kits to Residents

Todd County has received a grant to help residents ensure their drinking water is safe. This initiative provides free water testing kits to eligible households and offers financial assistance to help address identified water quality issues.

The program aims to promote regular safety checks for private wells. To participate, residents must meet the following requirements:

• Eligibility: Must be a Todd County resident using a private well.

• Limit: One kit per household.

• Retesting: Available for households that have recently installed a water treatment system.

• Usage: Testing is only for the primary drinking water source of the home

The kits test for five key contaminants:

- Lead, Arsenic, Nitrates, Coliform Bacteria, and Manganese.

Important Collection Details:

To ensure sample viability, all bottles in the kit must be filled and returned. Samples

must be collected on Thursday morning and dropped off at the Planning and Zoning office by 10:00 a.m. the same day.

Residents can pick up their free kits at the Todd County Planning and Zoning office Monday – Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

For more information or to ask questions about the program, please call 320-732-4420.

St. Cloud Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Fun-Food-Fund Day

St. Cloud Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Fun-Food-Fund Day “Turn Back Thyme” will be held Thursday, June 18, at Immaculate Conception Church, Rice. Registration and refreshments - 9 a.m.; Bingo: 9:30 - 10:30; Mass 11 a.m., followed by lunch and social. Silent Auction open 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. To register, call 320-248-5976.

DNR urges people to leave deer fawns alone

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources asks that people avoid disturbing or touching deer fawns, which are born around this time of year.

Most fawns are born from mid-May to mid-June, and do not attempt to evade predators during their first few weeks of life. Instead, they remain still to avoid being seen. During these times, fawns are learning critical survival skills from their mothers but are often left on their own while their mothers watch nearby.

Be assured deer fawns are likely fine,

though they might appear to be abandoned or fragile. Even if the fawn is known to be wounded or abandoned due to car strike or animal attack, do not transport it without talking to a wildlife rehabilitator. Moving a fawn can be detrimental to the animal and increase the risk of spreading diseases.

For more information regarding fawns or other young wild animals that appear to be orphaned, visit the DNR’s website (mndnr.gov/ eco/nongame/rehabilitation/orphaned-wildlife.html).

Harvesting Tips for Rhubarb

Harvesting rhubarb correctly is key to ensuring the plant stays healthy and continues to produce for years to come. Here is the best way to do it:

The “Twist and Pull” Technique: The most important rule for rhubarb is to avoid using a knife. Cutting the stalks can leave behind a “stub” that may rot and damage the crown of the plant.

Select the Stalk: Look for stalks that are roughly 10 to 15 inches long.

Grip at the Base: Reach down as close to the soil as possible and grab the stalk firmly near the bottom.

Twist and Pull: Gently twist the stalk to one side while pulling upward in one fluid motion. It should “pop” away from the base of the plant relatively easily.

Safety & Best Practices: Discard the Leaves Immediately: Rhubarb leaves contain high levels of oxalic acid, which is toxic to humans and pets. Trim them off right in the garden and put them in your compost pile (the toxins break down and won’t hurt your compost).

Leave Some Behind: Never harvest more than one-third of the plant at a time. The plant needs those remaining leaves to photosynthe-

Lawn Care Services

size and store energy for next year’s growth. The Flower Rule: If you see a thick, round stalk with a large bulb at the top (a seed head), cut it off immediately at the base. This “bolting” takes energy away from stalk production.

Stop Harvesting Early: In most regions, you should stop harvesting by early to mid-summer. This gives the plant enough time to recover and strengthen its root system before winter.

Storing Your Harvest: Rhubarb wilts quickly once pulled. If you aren’t using it right away, wrap the stalks (without leaves) in a damp paper towel and place them in a loose plastic bag in the refrigerator. They will stay crisp for about a week.

A Complaint Funny

An elderly couple decided they just spent too much time and energy complaining about all their aches and pains.

“Let’s agree to not say a word about our ailments,” suggested the wife. “We’ll talk about something else or say nothing at all.”

“Great idea!” replied the husband.

Two months later, they got a message from Alexa. “Alexa is wondering if you are both OK. For the past two months we have picked up no verbal communication in your household.”

CLASSIFIED ADS

FOUND: Blue/brown tarp along County Rd. #35, Grey Eagle, May 9. Call 320-2853261.

ESTATE SALE

Thursday, May 14: 8 AM-6 PM

Friday, May 15: 8 AM-3 PM

Dressers, Various Shelves, Wood Products/Wood Stands, Kitchenware, Craft Items, Home Decor and Much More!!

331 Prairie Street, Holdingford

ESTATE SALE: Friday & Saturday, May 15-16: 9am-2pm. Cash only. 30007 County 2, Grey Eagle, North end of Big Birch Lake.

GARAGE SALE: 2908 Dove Rd., Bowlus. May 14: 1-6; May 15: 8-6; May 16: 8-1.

GARAGE SALE: May 15-16: 9am-5pm. 21173 280th St., Richmond.

GARAGE SALE: Saturday, May 16th: 8 am-4 pm. 28880 County 6, Grey Eagle, MN.

PLANT SALE: Sauk Centre History Museum Annual Plant Sale Saturday, May 16: 10-3, Sinclair Lewis Library. Plants donated by Tree Top Nursery.

GARAGE SALE: Thursday & Friday, May 21st & 22nd: 8am-4pm. North shore Big Birch Lake, 30119 122nd St., Grey Eagle.

GARAGE SALE: Multi-family something for everyone. May 21-24: 8-6:00. 11702 30th St., Bowlus.

WANTED TO BUY: Dairy Heifers and Cows. 320-894-7175. SC-evB

WANTED: Good used freezer, reasonable price. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn

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.

WORK WANTED: Local teenager looking for mowing & lawn jobs around Big Birch Lake and surrounding towns. Call/text Tyler 320-250-9815. 5/28

FOR SALE: Hewitt boat lift and green canopy, 1800 pound, 110x20 foot. Co Rd 104, passed the Hub, $1500. Call 612-554-2932. tfn-RG

FOR SALE: 1991 Dodge van, has bed, TV, 318 engine, $6,800. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn

FOR SALE: Fire rings, $50 each. Call 320573-3939. 5/28

FOR SALE: Two 15” leather western saddles, Blue Ridge 18” English utility saddle, Borelli English flat seat, all w/Bridle & pad. 320-493-6387

FOR SALE: Godfrey 2005 pontoon boat & wheel lift, 18’ w/trolling motor, 4 pedestal seats, bench seat, live well, 50 HP Yamaha 4-stroke motor, $7,500 for both. 913-2267993. 5/14

FOR SALE: Louvered tailgate, like new, fits Chevy trucks. Call 320-808-8631. 5/14

FOR SALE: New running boards for a pick-up, $100. Call 320-573-3939. 5/28

FOR SALE: Wedding dress size 7. Deer mounts. Two vintage steamer trunks $200 each. Ever bearing raspberry plants. Vintage fishing rods, reels, musky lures. 320-2559519

FOR SALE: Newmans 2400# cantilever boat lift with 20’ canopy, wheel kit and 110V DC motor, new gray canopy. $2000. 651-247-6838.

GREAT BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY!

HELP WANTED PT/FT MEAT CUTTER

Duties would include but not limited to cutting, and wrapping meat.

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds

• Punctual & Reliable

• Flexible Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 am-4:30 pm Experienced or will train.

FOR SALE: 16 ft. Palm Beach pontoon with trailer, 25 hp Evinrude motor. Call 320255-9519. 5/14

FOR SALE: 1994 Corvette, loaded, black, 60,000 miles, new tires, $9,500. Call 320290-0924. 5/21

FOR SALE: Upright Imperial freezer, works great, W33 H66 D28, best offer. Call 612-816-0110.

FREE: Cabinets (23) oak dark stain, great for garage, paintable. Call 612-816-0110.

FOR SALE: 1997 Sun Patio Supreme 20 ft. Suzuki 55, no trailer, great project, $1500/ bo. Call 612-816-0110.

FOR SALE: Like new Earthquake rear tine tiller RH series Kohler 6.5 HP motor 196 cc. Swanville 320-630-4409.

FOR SALE: 6x6x12 dog kennel with dog house. Call Tim 320-293-2819.

Grey Eagle/Burtrum Lions Club is collecting old glasses, phones and hearing aids to refurbish and distribute around the world. If you have any please drop off at Neville Hardware, Grey Eagle.