Hometown News
Thursday, September 3, 2026
FREE PUBLICATION
Vol. 27: Issue 17
ROLLOFF CONTAINERS
Remodeling Jobs • Demolition Jobs Shingles • New Construction • All types of Scrap Iron • Household Cleanout (Garbage)
Great For BUSINESS, HOMES & FARMS! We handle any size commercial account! of all Scrap Metal CLOSED Buyers Aluminum, Tin, Copper, Brass, SEPT. 5 & 7 Stainless, Batteries, Catalytic Have a Safe Labor Day Weekend!
Converters, Farm Machinery, Radiators, Autos, Computer Components, Prepared & Unprepared Metals, Plus More!
320-746-2819
www.opatzmetalsinc.com
208 Main St. W., Freeport M-F: 7-5 Sat. 8-12
120 Washington West, Holdingford Hours: Mon.-Fri.: 8 AM-4:30 PM; Sat.: 8 AM-Noon
320-836-2177
Honoring Labor Day
Made for Boats, Bare Feet & Summer Nights. A better setup for easier days on the water.
God Bless All Workers! Closed Mon., Sept. 7
320.200.9419
eagledocklift.com
320-285-8085
Mon.-Fri.: 7:30 am-5 pm; Sat.: 8 am-12 pm Grey Eagle, MN Building Materials and Custom Designing
24 HOUR SERVICE • Well Drilling - Residential / Commercial • Well Service / Maintenance • Pump Sales & Service (Jet / Submersible) • Water Treatment & Conditioning • Water Softeners / Salt • Irrigation / Geo-Thermal Drilling
Building Supplies
Mike Recker of Minnetonka, MN, caught this 28” Northern on his lucky lure “somewhere on Big Birch Lake” last weekend. Caught and released of course! Submitted by Susan Enright.
Melrose, MN
320-256-4146
Harvey Mackay
wheelswater.com
Call the Repair & Refinishing Experts! • Bathtub Refinishing & Repair • Install Premium Acrylic Wall Liners Installs over existing tile no removal or remodeling • Install New Floors in Cracked Out Tubs & Showers • Shower & Bath Slip Resistant Floor Texturing • Bathtub Cutdowns & Door Installations • Grab Bar Installation Limited downtime, • Glass Scratch Removal ready to use the • Fiberglass Repair next day! • Vinyl Window Frame Repair All work is • Countertop Refinishing guaranteed. • Tile Refinishing
On The Tom Kuehne: The Good Old Days Inside... Obituaries: Quistorff,Massmann, Primus, Breitbach Bachman Dave Ramsey: Dave Says Ask the Motor Medics® Local Municipality Minutes: Grey Eagle City
FREE Estimates
Derrick Meyer Vice President Lending
Give Brandon a Call Today!
Brandon Kelly Broker-Realtor
REALTOR®
Email: brandon@centralmnrealty.com www.brandonkellymn.com www.lakehomesbybrandon.com
Join us for St. Rose of Lima
Fall Festival!
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • St. Rosa, MN
Gary Schmitz Vice President Lending
320-836-2126
Asst. Vice President Lending - Home Mortgage Specialist
Graduate REALTOR® Institute
After Hours: 320-267-4401 310 Industrial Dr. - Freeport, MN
www.hartungsales.com
Jean Marthaler
320-491-6107 • 320-732-2817
320-836-2697
NEW & USED EQUIPMENT
Choose a lender you can trust Vice President Lending
LOOKING TO SELL?
Oldest & Most Experienced Houle Dealer in Central Minnesota!
www.surfacespecialists.com
Jennifer Klaphake
Page 6 Page 6 Page 7
Spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home that has been lovingly maintained by the same family for more than 33 years. Built in 1950 & thoughtfully expanded in the 1990s, creating additional living space and a functional layout ideal for today’s lifestyle. This move-in-ready property is vacant & available for immediate possession. Large, level lot with mature trees offering privacy & outdoor space. Backyard patio provides an excellent setting for entertaining guests, hosting family gatherings, or simply relaxing outdoors. All appliances included with the sale.
TANKS & LAGOON PUMPS
Mid-Minnesota 320-248-3456
Page 2 Page 3 Page 4
PRICE REDUCED! • MELROSE
309 5th Ave. SE, Melrose $249,000
“Customer Service Is y Our Priority”
10:00 a.m. – Outdoor Polka Mass $5 Unlimited 11:00 a.m. – Children, Teen, and Adult Games Kids Inflatable Food Stands, Beer Garden Wristbands 12:30 p.m. – Bean Bag Tournament Sign-up 2:00 p.m. – Quilt Auction (view at www.sacredheartfreeport.org
or TriParish Facebook page)
4:00 p.m. Music by The Sunday Stars Proud to be recognized by Bauer Financial as one of the strongest financial institutions in the country.
(Donny Brang, Mike Noonan & Jay Skrukrud)
7:00 p.m. – Grand Raffle & Cash Raffle Drawing
Bingo • Dice Cake Walk 1 PM Horse Races
29033 County Road 17, Freeport
320-836-2284
www.strosalumber.com www.arnzenconstructioninc.com
Page 2 • Hometown News •Thursday, September 3, 2026
Hometown News 29442 120th St. Grey Eagle, MN 56336
320-285-2323
Email: htnews@icloud.com
Website: www.hometownnews.biz www.facebook.com/hometownnews Published By Lori Young
Advertising & News Deadline MONDAYS • 5 PM
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
Sales: Lori Young
Office: 320-285-2323 Cell: 612-597-2998
Email: htnews@icloud.com
Classified Ads
Email: htnews@icloud.com
Personal Classifieds: Garage Sales, For Sale Items, Wanted (Personal) FREE up to 20 words; 25¢ for each additional word. Classifieds over the word limit must be prepaid. Business Related Classifieds: Wanted (Items for Profit), Help Wanted, For Rent: $5.00 for the first 20 words, 25¢ per each additional word. Mail to: Hometown News, 29442 120th St., Grey Eagle, MN 56336. Email: htnews@icloud.com
Photos • Press Releases
Photos & press releases are welcome. Email: htnews@icloud.com
Obituaries
Publish one time free of charge. Email: htnews@icloud.com
Card of Thanks
Cards of Thanks is $5.00 for the first 50 words, 10¢ per each additional word. Must be prepaid. To be billed: a $5 minimum applies. Email: htnews@icloud.com
Announcements
Birth Announcements, Anniversaries, Birthday Open House, Engagements, Weddings are free of charge for one publication. For additional weeks $15/week.
Email: htnews@icloud.com A prestamped, self addressed envelope is required to return photos.
Subscriptions
The subscription rates for 13 weeks is $21.00 26 weeks is $39.00 52 weeks is $78.00 Mail to: Hometown News, 29442 120th St., Grey Eagle, MN 56336
When times are changing, you must change too -By Harvey Mackay We might still be all driving Model Ts if Henry Ford had listened to his customers. He often quipped, “If I’d asked my customers what they wanted, they’d have said ‘Don’t change anything.’” But the visionary Ford was just getting started, and I wonder how excited he would be to drive a souped-up Mustang Mach-E to the factory every day. The only thing constant in life is change. That’s why we need to embrace change and view it as an opportunity rather than a threat. As entrepreneur and author Mark Sanborn put it, “Your success in life isn’t based on your ability to simply change. It is based on your ability to change faster than your competition, customers and business.” Here’s how I view change and why it’s important: Adaptability equals survival. Businesses that thrive are those that can adapt to changing markets, technologies and consumer preferences. The ability to pivot and embrace change is crucial for long-term success. Innovation driver. Change often serves as a catalyst for innovation. It pushes companies to think creatively, develop new products or services and improve existing processes. Without change, businesses risk
stagnation. Competitive advantage. Companies that are open to change can seize new opportunities faster than their competitors. Being first in adopting new trends or technologies can provide a significant competitive edge. Employee engagement. Embracing change can also lead to a more dynamic and engaging work environment. Employees who see their company evolving and growing are more likely to feel motivated and invested in their work. Customer satisfaction. As customer needs and expectations evolve, businesses must change to meet these demands. By staying attuned to customer feedback and market trends, companies can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Research by a Canadian neurosurgeon discovered some dramatic truths about the human mind’s reaction to change. He conducted various experiments which proved that when a person is forced to change a fundamental belief or opinion, the brain undergoes a series of nervous sensations equivalent to distressing torture. Change is not something to be feared. Rather it is something we should welcome – for without change, nothing in this world would ever grow or blossom. No one in this world would ever move forward to become the person they want to be. Navigating change involves several key components. First, you must communicate clearly. All stakeholders need to understand the reasons for change and how it will benefit them. Why and how are policies and procedures going to
be different? Are jobs at stake? How quickly will changes take effect? Equally important is leading by example. Leadership should model adaptability and openness to change, setting the tone for the organization. This step is often a roadblock to implementing change because management is just as afraid to make mistakes as their staffs, knowing that the buck stops with them. Finally, be available and willing to provide support. Offer training and resources to help employees transition smoothly through changes. Celebrate victories and recognize the efforts of your staff to adapt. Being open to corporate change is most successful when the individuals involved are personally open to change. Accepting that there might be a different or better way of doing things can be difficult for people who are accustomed to business as usual. But when business as usual is not producing desired results, individual participation is central to implementing needed changes. Those employees who can
Harvey Mackay continued to pg 3
OH SHUCKS REPAIR
Small Engine & Marine Repair Mobile Powersports • Lawn, Garden & Marine Repair • Automotive Maintenance
Shrinkwrapping Boats, Watercraft & Pontoons Outdoor Storage Available
www.ohshucksrepair.com 218-640-7354 • Grey Eagle
Upcoming Events
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • St. Rose of Lima Parish Fall Festival. Mass at 10 a.m. in St. Rosa. • Mid Minnesota Motor Heads 11th Annual Car Show from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Downtown Grey Eagle. See ad on page 4. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 • Grey Eagle-Burtrum Lions Tractor Pull, Grey Eagle. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 • Matching Grant Breakfast & Bake Sale from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Spring Hill Church basement. THURS.-SUN., SEPT. 17-20 • 52nd Annual Albany Pioneer Days. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 • St. Cloud Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Annual Fall Conference starting at 8:30 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, Belle Prairie. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 • Bingo at 1 p.m. at the Upsala Community Center. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 • 20th Annual Hog Roast from 4:30-7 p.m. at the Grey Eagle United Methodist Church. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 • Albany Legion Post 482 Smorgasbord Breakfast from 8 a.m.-Noon at Church of Seven Dolors Parish, Albany. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 • 130th Annual Burtrum Bean Bake from 4:30-8 p.m. at the Burtrum Community Center. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7 • Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle. AL-ANON • AVON • Meets every Monday from 5-6 p.m. at the Avon City Hall.
ALBANY FARMERS MARKET • Meets every Thursday through October 1 from 3-6 p.m. Corner lot on Railroad St. and 3rd Ave. 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 Mondays & Thursdays at 9:30 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. UPSALA FARMERS MARKET • Meets every Saturday through Sept. 26 from 8-11 a.m. at Buffy’s parking lot.
If you have an upcoming event or meeting, please let us know by email: htnews@icloud.com or call 320-285-2323.
Temperatures Date 8/26 8/27 8/28 8/29 8/30 8/31 9/1
High 79 77 77 73 79 86 82
Low 55 52 48 64 64 59 54
Friday
Mostly sunny. High: 88 Low: 65
Weekend Weather Saturday
Sunday
Partly cloudy. High: 86 Low: 65
Partly cloudy. High: 81 Low: 64
Hometown News • Thursday, September 3, 2026 • Page 3
“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne John Deere
steadied the power of the two cylinders. The B was 17 horse power, which provided enough power for most of the small farm tasks, which made it a popular model. The first John Deere tractors had steel tracks with a steering column in front along with a single front wheel. Later models still had spoke wheels, but rubber tires, a hidden steering column and in 1940 starter and lights were added. The early models sold for $800.00, but toward the 1950’s the price went to $5,000.00. Later models also had a small foot lever on the left side, which increased the engine speed, thereby increasing the highway speed to over 7 miles per hour. They also were equipped with a 6 speed transmission, which replaced the 3 speed with high and low range. All of the models had a rather large clutch lever on the right side of the steering wheel and individual back wheel brakes. We had two B’s on our farm, one with spokes and the other a 1950 model with all of the modern conveniences. The two cylinder engines were very reliable, but sometimes carburetor problems occurred. Most of the problems were caused by dirt, either in the air or in the fuels. The simplicity of the carburetor allowed some of the operators to fix it on the farm. However, a good friend had a B that filled a cylinder with gas while it was stopped, so he took out the spark plug to allow the extra gas to escape. The spark plug was still attached to the power source and when the tractor turned over, the gas shot out of the spark plug hole and ignited, causing him to lay on the ground to extinguish the fire. A couple of weeks at the burn center fixed his back. Older farm machines had seats made of metal, with holes to allow cooling of one’s bottom. With use, over a period of time, the metal would crack between the holes. When one sat on the seat, the cracks would sometimes open enough to allow a portion of your bottom to get into the crack. When one stood up, the crack would go back together with part of your bottom still in it. The feeling is remembered through the years. For feedback or story ideas, email Tom at kuehneins@gmail.com.
Maybe your farm had one, your neighbor had one, or there was one in your trashing ring, it was almost impossible to not recognize the pop-pop of the two cylinder John Deere tractor. It certainly brings back warm memories. The John Deere tractor actually came into existence after John Deere bought a company called Waterloo Boy, which had designed a horizontal two cylinder engine that was able to effectively use gas or less expensive kerosene. Our first John Deere model B had a gas tank for easier engine starting and a kerosene tank for regular use. It required manually turning the flywheel to start it. The heavy flywheel
Harvey Mackay continued from pg 2
adapt will flourish in both professional and personal roles. Personal adaptability to change is a critical skill in today’s fast-paced world. Adaptability helps build resilience. It allows individuals to bounce back from setbacks and navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence and poise. Being adaptable means being open to learning new skills and acquiring knowledge. This mindset keeps you relevant and competitive in your personal and professional life. When you’re adaptable, you’re better equipped to handle stress. You can approach challenges with a problem-solving attitude rather than feeling overwhelmed. Adaptability opens doors to new opportunities. By being flexible, you can seize chances that others might miss, whether it’s a new job, a project or a personal endeavor. Anticipate changes and prepare for them rather than reacting after the fact. The toughest thing to change is our approach to change. Maybe it’s time for a mind transfusion that welcomes the advent of change. Expect change; it is inevitable. Your decision is to decide whether it is to be by consent or coercion. Mackay’s Moral: Change is the heartbeat of growth. Embrace it, and you’ll find opportunity in every challenge. 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.”
Kitchen Hours 11 AM-2 PM • 5-9 PM Daily Lunch Specials
Stop in for All Your Off Sale Needs!
320-836-2154
Busch Light 24 pk Cans $21+tax Coors Light 24 pk Cans $23+tax Ultra 24 pk Cans $25+tax
All Stars Take & Bake
Pizzas
• 12” Pepperoni • 4 Meat or • Chicken Bacon Ranch Stop in & stock up today!
Sunday, Sept. 6: St. Rose Parish Fall Festival Polka Mass 10 AM • Food & Activities all day!
Chris’ Country Store • J & J Eagle Cafe and Meats
Come share the joy of small town hospitality! Family owned business - Chris & her daughter Jess Hours: Wed.- Sat.: 7 AM-2 PM; Sunday: 7 AM-12 PM 105 State Street E., Grey Eagle, MN • 320-285-2600 - Follow us on Facebook
• Full Service Florist • Cement Statuary/Gifts • Tux Rental • Guest House listed on VRBO
SEPT. 6: During the CAR SHOW Join us outdoors for yummy Breakfast & Lunch Specials, Dirty Sodas & more... Check it out!
Cafe: Daily Breakfast & Lunch Specials
Thrift, Vintage & Antiques
Quick - Hot, Fresh Pizza less than 4 minutes!
4-8 PM Join Us Labor Day Weekend! Fridays: Dining Room • 4-9 PM Thursdays: Bar Specials Friday, Sept. 4 New Pasta Special Every Week! Chicken Basket $9.97 Karaoke: 8-11 PM NEW Breakfast Burrito Eggs Benedict, Monte Cristo Sandwiches, Breakfast Platters & More! Bar Hours:
Rib Basket $9.97
Chicken Strips Special
Thurs.: 4 PM-Close Fri., Sat., Sun.: Noon-Close
Dining Room Hours:
Thurs., Fri., & Sat.: 4-9 PM Sun. 10-2 PM & 4-9 PM
Fridays: In the Bar
Karaoke 8-11 PM
I am writing this article from the couch of my brother’s living room in Monroeville, Alabama. Lori and I left Sunday after the service was over and drove to our daughter’s home in Iowa, 6 hours away. The total drive is about twenty hours, and we made it with only 2 close calls. Both happened while other drivers were on their cell phones. When I get back to Swanville, I will be starting a new sermon series in 1 Thessalonians. I bought a new commentary from one of my heroes, Chuck Swindoll and in the Introduction to 1 Thessalonians, he starts by saying, “If you are sharing Jesus with someone and you tell them that Christians have no problems and life is grand, you just misled that person and they will soon fall away to follow the ways of the world.” 1 Thessalonians 2:2 “We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you about His gospel in the face of strong opposition.” Paul had been in prison for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, and he did not sugar coat the fact that you will have trouble. Just a little over 20 years ago God called me to be a pastor and I had many “objections” to doing what God was calling me to do. I knew the pastorate was not going to be easy and I felt very unqualified. I asked God for a verse to confirm His calling, and He gave me Isaiah 41:9-10 “I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070 Mon., Sept. 7: Closed. Tues., Sept. 8: Hamburger Steak w/ sauteed onions, noodles, beets, bread. Wed., Sept. 9: Sliced ham, scalloped potatoes, green beans, bread. Thurs., Sept. 10: Tilapia, rice, vegetable Normandy, bread. Fri., Sept. 11: BBQ pork, macaroni & cheese, broccoli, cookie. Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
Saturday, Sept. 5: 7-10 PM
THE BOB SHOW Sunday, Sept. 6
Karaoke: 8-11 PM Coming Sat., Sept. 27: Comedy Thurs., Oct. 22: Comedy
HOUSE OF PIZZA Pizzas available in the bar!
Also Available: Cauliflower Gluten Free Pizza!
Enjoy the Patio • Boat Parking
320-441-0119 • 11977 COUNTY 47, GREY EAGLE
said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” So, God does not keep us from trouble, but as we experience troubled times, He holds us up, giving us peace so we can endure the struggle. I am very glad because life is not always fair, but who promised it would be? Trust in God, trust that He will hold you up in the middle of your deepest troubles. -Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Forever Young 2026 Concerts
The Forever Young Choir will be presenting their 2026 concerts in the following locations in September. The first concert is Sunday September 13 at 4:00 pm in Melrose at St Paul’s Lutheran Church. The second concert is Tuesday , September 15 at 7:00 pm in Albany at Our Saviors Lutheran Church. The final concert is Sunday, September 20 at 4:00 pm in Sauk Centre at First Lutheran Church. The Forever Young Choir consists of over 40 members from Melrose, Swanville, Grey Eagle , Burtrum, Sauk Centre and Cold Spring with an average age of 74.We have performed for over 20 years. The choir is directed by Bonnie Nelson and accompanied by Angela Bitz. The concert this year called “Nature Speaks” brings you on a musical journey of nature. Some of the pieces include “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”, “Stormy Weather”, ‘Sunshine on My Shoulders, “Shenandoah” and the patriotic “ From Sea to Shining Sea” . Please join the Forever Young Choir on this travel through nature. Free Will offering to support our music.
Todays Thought
A friend called me to say that she saw a fox on the way to work. I asked her how she knew it was on its way to work. She hung up on me.
MELROSE AMERICAN LEGION Post 101 265 Co. Rd. 173 SE, Melrose - 320-256-3581 • Gambling Licence #01053-001
Friday, Sept. 4
OPEN
Mondays at 3:30 PM Bar is Open Mondays during Line Dancing
Serving 4:30-7:30 PM
PIZZA NIGHT
Fridays at 3 PM Happy Hour 6:30-7:30 PM
Open to the Public! Call to Book Your Event!
Pizza & Bucket of 5 Beers $25 Pizza & Pitcher of Pop $15
Dog Tag $ 275
Double “R” Bar & Grill Grey Eagle • 320-285-2965
KITCHEN HOURS
Sun.: 11 AM-8 PM Tues.-Thurs.: 11 AM-9 PM Fri.-Sat.: 11 AM-9:30 PM
www.doublerbarandgrill.com
BAR HOURS
Sun.: 11 AM-10 PM Tues.-Thurs. 11 AM-11 PM Fri. & Sat. 11 AM-1 AM
HELP WANTED
Bartender • Servers Cook • Fry Cooks
OFF SALE
Tues.-Sat.: 11 AM-10 PM Sun.: 11 AM-6 PM
Join Us Sunday, Sept. 13 3:25 PM: Vikings vs. Packers FRIDAY: 5-9 PM
Managed by Kristie
Open FRIDAYS • Noon-4 PM: Pizza & Pitcher of Beer or Pop for $20
Sunday Brunch 10 AM-2 PM
From the Desk of Pastor Bruce
CAR SHOW
Includes Salad Bar & Choice of Potato
PULL-TABS ETABS
Friday, Sept. 11 BURGER NIGHT 4:30-7:30 PM
Friday, Sept. 18 FISH FRY 4:30-7:30 PM
Lunch Specials •
11 AM-2 PM Fri., Sept. 4: Hot Beef Sandwich Sat., Sept. 5: Prime Rib Burger or Sweet Chili Crispy Chicken Sandwich Sun., Sept. 6: Sunny Side Up Burger or Egg, Cheese & Bacon Sandwich Tues., Sept. 8: Spaghetti w/Dinner Salad Wed., Sept. 9: $ 7 Baskets Thurs., Sept. 10: BBQ Ribs or Grilled Ham & Cheese w/Cup of Soup
• Ribeye $28.95 • Teriyaki Chicken over Rice Sunday, Sept. 6 • 10 AM-3 PM Pilaf $14.95 • Deep Fried Cod $16.95 TUESDAY: 5-9 PM • Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo $15.95 $ Burger Night 4.00 or Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo $17.95 1/3 lb. Fresh Ground Hamburger on Brioche Buns! w/Breadsticks Dine In w/Beverage Purchase SATURDAY: 5-9 PM WEDNESDAY: 11 AM-9 PM Includes Salad Bar & Choice of Potato Happy Hour: Mon.-Fri. 3-5 PM $ Domestic Beers: 2 for 6.50 • Prime Rib $28.95 • 1-1/2 lb. Wings $7.00 Buck Off Adult Beverage • Ribs $20.95 • $7 Baskets Your Choice: • Deep Fried Walleye $17.95 Stock Up on ALL Your Shrimp Basket, Angus Slider Basket, 1/4 Chicken Basket, Nachos or Quesadillas • Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken, Off Sale Needs! w/Beverage Purchase Wild Rice, w/Breadsticks $14.95 Busch or Busch Light THURSDAY: 5-9 PM SUNDAY: 3-8 PM 24 pk cans $20.98 Includes Salad Bar & Choice of Potato Includes Salad Bar & Choice of Potato E&J Brandy • Chicken & Ribs $17.95 • Steak & Shrimp $21.95 1.75 liter $19.79 • 8 oz. Ground Sirloin $15.95 • 10 oz. Pork Chop $16.95 • Creamy Sweet Chili Haddock McMaster’s • 1/2 Chicken $14.50 1.75 liter $16.99 w/Wild Rice $17.95 • 1/4 Chicken $12.50
Page 4 • Hometown News • Thursday, September 3, 2026
Bernice M. Massmann
Obituaries
Laurette J. Quistorff
L a u r e t t e “Laurie” J. Quistorff, age 72, of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 29, at her home in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, September 4 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre. Interment will be in Silver Creek Cemetery in West Union. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Sauk Centre and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Friday at the church. Laurette Jane Czech was born on February 28, 1954, in Sauk Centre, Minnesota, to Nicholas and Bernice (Wiswell) Czech. She graduated from Holdingford High School and went on to earn her nursing degree. Laurie married Wayne Quistorff on May 29, 1976, at St. Hedwig’s Catholic Church in Holdingford, Minnesota. Throughout her nursing career, Laurie worked at St. Michael’s Hospital in Sauk Centre, Pine Villa Nursing Home in Melrose, Mother of Mercy in Albany, and the St. Cloud VA Medical Center, where she retired. Prior to her retirement, she continued caring for others by working for several home care agencies over the years. Laurie was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre. She enjoyed traveling, camping, pontoon rides, and playing Skip-Bo. Above all, she treasured the time spent with her family and friends. Laurie is survived by her children, Nicole (Brent) Burgardt of Sartell and Randy Quistorff of Sauk Rapids; two grandchildren, Brayden Quistorff and Lincoln Quistorff; brothers and sisters, Michael Czech, Kathy Czech, Terry (Judy) Czech, Guy Czech, Jackie Middendorf, Becky Czech, and Hydie Czech; and brothersin-law; Roger Quistorff, Mike (Dora) Quistorff, Andy (Connie) Quistorff, Jeff Quistorff, and Jack Quistorff. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Quistorff on November 11, 1998; parents, Nicholas and Bernice Czech; and inlaws, Arnie and Lois; and sisters-in-law, Glenda Quistorff and Sharon Quistorff. Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral & Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
Bernice M. Massmann passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, August 29, at her home in Sauk Centre, Minnesota at the age of 94 years and 9 months. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, September 3 at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with Rev. Mark Botzet officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday at the church. Bernice Marie Massmann was born on November 26, 1931 (Thanksgiving Day) near Westport, in Pope County, Minnesota to Ole & Rose (Dusek) Odegaard. She was raised on a farm near Little Sauk, then near West Union, Minnesota. Bernice was united in marriage to Erwin Massmann on October 2, 1951, at St. Alexius Catholic Church in West Union, Minnesota. She worked for Swift and Company, Fingerhut & Jennie-O, until her retirement in 1994. She was a member of Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre and the Christian Mothers. Bernice enjoyed spending time with family, gardening, crocheting, going for drives in the countryside looking at the crops and wildlife, as well as just being outdoors. Survivors include her children, Diane (Vern) Athmann of Sauk Centre, Butch (Donna Neal) Massmann of Sauk Centre, Donna (Eric) Carlson of Sauk Centre; grandchildren, Kari (Darin) Thompson, Sarah Athmann, Ashley (Brad) Mergen, Austin Carlson, Brance Carlson, Cailynn Carlson (Jason Wiggins); great-grandchildren, Breanna (Isaac) Adelman, McKenna Thompson, Hailey Thompson, Tanner Massmann, Kylie Athmann, and Peyton Athmann; great-great grandson, Vincent Adelman; brother, Norbert (Judy) Odegaard; sister-in-law, Merina Odegard, and many nieces and nephews. Bernice was preceded in death by her husband, Erwin Massmann; parents, Ole and Rose Odegaard; sisters, Betty Von Wahlde and Rosalind Tabor; brother, Victor Odegaard; grandson, Kevin Athmann. Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral & Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
Wishing everyone a successful school year! - Happy Labor Day -
Village View Apartments 303 Cedar Street N., Grey Eagle • 320-285-3973
Equal Housing Opportunity
Grey Eagle Housing Association is an Equal Housing Opportunity Provider
MID MINNESOTA MOTOR HEADS PRESENTS
Joseph R. “Joe” Primus
Joseph R. “Joe” Primus, age 99 of Melrose, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 30, 2026 at the Cura Care Center in Melrose, Minnesota. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, September 5, 2026 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating and Rev. Marvin Enneking concelebrating. Interment will be held in the parish cemetery. The Mass will be livestreamed, and the link can be found at www. oneinfaith.org. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose and from 9 to 9:45 a.m Saturday at the church. Joseph Reinhold Primus was born on April 28, 1927, in Grove Township, Minnesota, to William and Rose (Meyer) Primus. He attended country school through the eighth grade. On May 8, 1951, Joe married Catherine Olmscheid at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin. For 35 years, Joe and Catherine worked side by side on their farm in Grove Township near Melrose while raising their family of boys. Together, they built a life rooted in family and farming. In 1986, they retired from farming and moved to Melrose. Farming was more than a livelihood for Joe; it was something he truly loved. The farm was where he taught his boys the value of hard work, responsibility, and working together as a family. The many years they spent farming alongside one another created lasting memories and lessons that his family will always cherish. Joe was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. He enjoyed going for drives through the countryside, checking out the crops and seeing what others were doing. Even during the last week of his life, he enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. Joe also enjoyed church festivals and parades, often following them with a drive around the countryside to see what was happening. Survivors include his sons, Rich (Carol) Primus of Albany, Virgil (Mary) Primus of Melrose, and Melvin (Brenda) Primus of Melrose; 15 grandchildren and 21 greatgrandchildren with one great-grandchild on the way; daughters-in-law, Ann Marie Primus of Melrose and Nancy Primus of Sauk Centre; sister, Betty Moscho of Melrose; sister-in-law, Claire Primus of Sauk Centre; and many loving relatives and friends. Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine Primus on February 14, 2024; parents, William and Rose Primus; sons, Donald, Baby Boy, Jerry, and Dale Primus; grandsons, Joel Primus and Mitchell Primus; brothers and sisters, Alphonse (Hildegard) Primus, Regina (Cyril) Wessel, Sr. Oranda Primus O.S.B., Albert (Marie) Primus, Alcuin (Lorraine) Primus, Sr. Lynette Primus O.S.B., Urban (Mary Ann) Primus, Rosemary (Vincent) Schmiesing, and Roman Primus; and brother-in-law, Nick Moscho. Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
Fall is the best time to ride, and we have the right one for you & yours!
11th Annual GREY EAGLE
CAR SHOW
DOWNTOWN GREY EAGLE, MN
CAR SHOW @ 10AM-3PM
Rosemary Breitbach, age 98 of Brainerd, formerly of Elrosa, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, August 30, 2026 at Edgewood Vista Assisted Living in Brainerd, Minnesota. A prayer service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, September 10 at the PattonSchad Funeral Home in Sauk Centre with Rev. Mark Botzet officiating. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Sauk Centre. Visitation will be from 1:30 to 2 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Rosemary “Honey” Sieben was born June 26, 1928, in Elrosa, Minnesota, where she was also raised, to Anthony and Katherine (Verkennis) Sieben. She was united in a full military wedding to Corporal Harold Breitbach on June 7, 1948, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Elrosa, Minnesota. Rosemary was a devoted wife and mother who loved cooking, sewing, and was an excellent artist and painter of portraits. Survivors include her sons, David Breitbach, Alan Breitbach, and Peter Breitbach, all of Brainerd; eight grandchildren and 11 greatgrandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Rosemary was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Breitbach on December 23, 1976; parents, Anthony Sieben, Katherine and Barnard Diedrich; son, Timothy Breitbach; daughter, Leesa Geary; and sisters, Iline Hart and Donna Gallion. Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
Margaret Ann Bachman
Margaret Ann Bachman, 87, passed away on August 23, 2026 at Wealshire of Medina. Margaret was born on July 1, 1939 in Holdingford, MN to Michael and Elizabeth (Yencho) Warga Jr. She attended and graduated from Holdingford High School with the class of 1957. She met her husband, Vernell while working at Lunds Grocery Store and was married on April 14, 1973 at South Elmdale Congregational Church in Holdingford. Together they made their home in Brooklyn Park and spent much of their time at their cabin in Fergus Falls until Vern’s passing in 1982. Margaret also worked at Twins Cities Garage Door and also at Macy’s at which time she moved to Maple Grove to spend her retirement years. She loved the time at the cabin fishing, spending time with family and friends, and traveling to many different states and countries. Margaret was also a diehard Vikings fan and if you called while a game was on, it would usually be a very short visit. She was also a member of Lord of Life Lutheran church. Margaret is survived by sisters-in-law Betty Warga and Joan Warga, several nieces, nephews and close friends with whom she loved spending time with. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brothers and sisters: Ruth, Paul, Mildred, Edward, Raymond, Donald, Leonard, and William (Bill). Nephew Thomas Warga and niece Nanc Kellen. A celebration of life was held on August 28th at Evans/Nordby Funeral Home in Osseo.
Thank you!
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6TH
REGISTRATION STARTS @ 8 AM
Rosemary Breitbach
Closed Labor Day: Monday, Sept. 7th.
Mon.-Fri.: 9 AM-5:30 PM Sat.: 9 AM-1:30 PM 124 2nd St NE, Little Falls
320-639-2453 TourightBicycleShop.com
NEVILLE HARDWARE Grey Eagle • 320-285-2000 UPS
Mon.-Fri.: 8 am-4:30 pm Sat.: 8 am-3 pm
Drop Off Site
Hometown News • Thursday, September 3, 2026 • Page 5
Managing Your Time and Money So Extracurriculars Don’t Feel So . . . Extra By Rachel Cruze When the school year rolls around, you’re not just managing your kid’s schedule — you’re running a full-on side hustle with cleats, carpool lines and concession stand duty (or some version of it!). As a mom of three, I get it. The school-year grind is real. Don’t get me wrong. I love cheering my kids on at their games. But I don’t think I ever realized just how much time my parents invested in me until I became one myself. Sports and activities are wonderful — but if we’re not careful, the time and money side can get out of hand. That’s why I want to share five tips to keep your family’s sanity and budget on track this school year. Budget for Activities Before You Sign Up Okay parents, this is a big one. Before you sign your kids up for anything, you’ve got to sit down with your spouse and crunch some numbers to figure out what you can afford. Using a zero-based budget will make it easy to see where your money’s going — and what’s realistic for your season. Then check in at the start of each month to adjust as needed. Trust me, setting aside just 30 minutes can save you hours of stress. When it comes to extracurriculars, it’s easy to overlook the small charges — like registration fees, uniforms, team photos, recitals and travel. But they add up fast! So go ahead and make a dedicated line item in your budget just for activities, then give yourself an additional cushion for those surprise expenses. Keep It to One Activity per Child From the ball field to the dance studio to karate class, your calendar (and your wallet) can take a serious hit when you say yes to every opportunity your kid wants to try. Instead, let each child pick just one extracurricular at a time. And no, your kid doesn’t have to be on the travel team that takes up every weekend and half your bank account. That kind of schedule wears everybody out. A simple rec league or community class can still be fun (and way more affordable), while giving your family some breathing room. Now, if you’ve got multiple kids, this still takes some coordination with your spouse. For us, it looks like sitting down with our calendar each week and figuring out how to divide and conquer. For instance, if you take your daughter to ballet, have your husband take your son to baseball practice. And if a new activity pops up? Perfect! Put it on the list for next season once it fits in the schedule and the budget. Don’t Feel Pressured to Buy New Just because your kid’s pumped about something doesn’t mean you need to spend like it’s a lifelong commitment — at least not yet. For now, grab used gear like cleats, tap shoes or a baseball bat. Trust me, they’ll outgrow it (or lose interest) in a year anyway. If they’re starting music lessons, see if you can rent the instrument from a local music store first. Then if they stick with it, buy used. Some of my go-to spots for used stuff? Facebook Marketplace, resale shops like Play It Again Sports, or local parent groups. When you shop this way, you can score really solid stuff — sometimes even name brands — for way less than buying new. Meal Prep for Busy Nights Extracurricular nights are total eating-out traps — because let’s be honest, it’s hard to
New 320-547-6112 • Swanville, MN Ownership! 7 Days a Week 6 am-2 pm
Frozen In-House Patriots Pizzas Available! Follow us on Facebook for details!
NEXT PANCAKE DAY • OCTOBER
say no to a Happy Meal when you’re in a rush! But feeding your crew doesn’t have to mean hitting the drive-thru and blowing your restaurant budget. Just plan ahead with easy meals for busy nights, like sandwiches, slow cooker dinners or prepacked lunches you can grab and go. And when you’re headed to the ball field, don’t forget the siblings. Bring snacks so you’re not forking over $5 for candy every 10 minutes. One of my go-to hacks? Keep a go-bag in the car with granola bars and other snacks. My kids are big fans! When you’re not spending every night cooking and packing lunches, you create more space for the things that matter — like some actual me time, a real conversation with your spouse or maybe even five whole minutes without being interrupted by someone asking for a snack. Look for Discounts, Scholarships and Deals Many leagues, studios and organizations do offer financial help — you just have to ask. Some have sibling discounts, scholarships or early bird pricing for sign-ups. Others might knock a chunk off your bill if you volunteer (like assistant coaching or working the concession stand). If you’re already spending hours at the field, you might as well put that time to good use and save a little money in the process. That’s a smart use of your time and your budget. Churches and local nonprofits may also sponsor kids’ sports or activities at a lower cost. So if you’re looking for a more affordable way for your child to play, check those out too. Don’t assume full price is your only option. The Bottom Line: Take Control of Your Schedule (and Sanity) These tips have made our school year a lot more enjoyable — and less stressful — for everyone. When you’re juggling schedules and a tight budget, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you can manage this. And you’re not a bad parent for saying no to things that stretch your family (or wallet) too thin. Instead, use moments like these to teach your kids smart trade-offs — like choosing used cleats so there’s money left for a field trip. Lessons like that will last way longer than new shoes ever could anyway! * Rachel Cruze is a two-time #1 national bestselling author, financial expert, host of The Rachel Cruze Show and co-host of Smart Money Happy Hour. Since 2010, Rachel has served at Ramsey Solutions, where she teaches people how to avoid debt, budget and win with money at any stage in life. She’s an energetic and thought-provoking speaker and has been speaking to audiences as large as 10,000 since the age of 15 when she began making appearances with her father, Dave Ramsey. She has appeared on Good Morning America, Today, Live With Kelly and Ryan, CNN Tonight, Fox and Friends and the Rachael Ray Show and has been featured in the Woman’s Day, Success and Real Simple magazines. Rachel believes it’s possible for anyone to turn around their finances, win with money, and build a life they love. Follow Rachel on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and X.
Raid Wasp & Hornet Killer Central McGowan
Bug Max 365 Home Pest Control by Enforcer Mouse Magic & d-CON Products!
UPSALA FARM STORE INC.
320-573-2216 • 211 S. Main St., Upsala
Huge nest in Ward Springs. We alerted the owners of the lot the sign is on to not mow close to it, since vibrations get the hornets excited. Submitted by Diane Sundquist.
Workshop to Help Farmers, Food Businesses Discover Funding Opportunities Finding funding for a farm or food business can be one of the biggest barriers to turning ideas into reality. To help address that challenge, the West Central Minnesota Food Council, in partnership with Mezclada, is launching Funding Forward: Practical AI for Farmers & Food Businesses, a free interactive workshop designed to help participants find funding opportunities, better understand grant eligibility, and explore practical artificial intelligence (AI) tools that save time. The workshop will take place on Saturday, September 12, from 9:00–11:00 a.m. in the Otter Tail Room (County Board Chambers) at the Government Services Center, 500 W. Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls. Unlike traditional technology trainings, Funding Forward focuses on solving real-world challenges faced by farmers and food businesses. Participants will learn practical strategies for identifying funding opportunities, evaluating eligibility requirements before investing valuable time, and using free AI tools to organize information and strengthen grant applications. “Many producers know funding opportunities exist, but don’t always know where to begin,” said Emily Reno, founder of Mezclada and workshop facilitator. “Our goal is to make the process feel approachable. Participants don’t need prior grant writing or AI experience—just
curiosity and a willingness to learn.” The workshop includes live demonstrations, practical examples, collaborative discussion, and opportunities to connect with farmers, food entrepreneurs, and agricultural support professionals from across west central Minnesota. Participants are encouraged to bring a project idea they are interested in pursuing. Those with laptops are welcome to bring them for optional interactive activities, though they are not required. The workshop is free to attend, but advance registration is required as seating is limited. To register, visit: https://www.mnfoodcouncil.org/events-1/funding-forward For additional information, visit: https:// www.mnfoodcouncil.org/ For questions, please contact Jason Bergstrand: Jason.Bergstrand@claycountymn.gov or 701-306-5280.
TOP DOWN SILO LLC
• Take down & cleanup of silos in congested areas • Mobile Concrete Crushing • Fully Insured 507-236-9446 topdownsilo.com
Our New Location! On Main Street • Grey Eagle
LP Gas Refill
OPEN 7 Days a Week • Mon.-Sat. 8-6; Sun. 9-2
Natures View Tree & Yard Care LLC Tree Trimming • Removals Stumps • Landscaping Sod • Patios • Walkways Edging • Mulch • Rock SENIOR DISCOUNTS
Dale: 320-493-6329
FOR ALL YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS! Insuring cars, homes, boats, farms & recreational vehicles for the past 30 years!
Ben B. Ettle 320-285-2299
PO Box 8, Grey Eagle • Email: kutt@meltel.net • (Text Only 320-733-6665)
Page 6 • Hometown News • Thursday, September 3, 2026
Sudoku
Word Search Answers from August 27
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 husband and I are trying hard to pay off debt and get control of our finances. The other day, my dad called and asked if we could give him $400 to take care of an overdraft at his bank. My dad’s a good man, but he has never managed money well. There have even been times he has gone to friends or my grandparents for money, and he’s 60 and has a job. What do you think we should do? We’re living on a really tight budget, and I’m not sure we have $400 to spare. -Melissa Dear Melissa, I understand feeling an obligation to help your dad. I mean, he’s your dad, right? But it’s a hard place to be in when you and your husband are working hard, short on cash and being disciplined in order to gain control of your finances. But there’s a lesson here that dad needs to learn, and it’s something that goes much deeper than money or helping out a family member. You have to do the right thing, no matter how dad reacts to this. And now, the right thing is taking care of your family and not putting your household in jeopardy. So, my answer to dad would be a loving and caring “no.” Explain what you and your husband are trying to accomplish, and that you simply don’t have the money to spare.
Van Heel Coachworks & Auto Body 320-249-8788
Full Collision & Auto Body Shop Premium Custom Golf Carts • PPG Certified We work with all Insurance Companies!
Sudoku Answers from August 27
Another thing that needs to happen is for the family definition of the word “help” to change. When you say he’s never handled money well, giving him $400 when he’s in another jam really won’t help. Plus, it will make you and your husband enablers. The hard truth is handing him the money will do more harm than good, because it will give him the idea he can continue being dumb with money and hit you up for cash anytime. Like I said, I really do understand the pull of helping a parent. If you feel this is something you absolutely must do, and you can manage to do it without harming your own financial situation, I’d recommend making the $400 contingent on him beginning, and completing, a good financial counseling course. Be gentle when you talk to him, and let him know it hurts you both to see him struggling. But let him know, too, it’s his responsibility to make some changes and take care of his own finances. -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.”
Ask The Motor Medics® From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Dear Motor Medics, Please help me out with Cabin Air Filters. I have a 2009 Honda Accord with one, and I must replace it about every six months when the air starts to blow slow because it gets so clogged with dirt from my gravel road and being parked outside. Do I really need one? None of my cars over the past 30 years had one and they were just fine. -Gale in Ozarks, Missouri Dear Gale, Yes, if your vehicle was equipped with one when it was made. Sure, we have seen some people come into our repair shop with a missing filter and their air is working just fine, but we have also had some in for repairs that cost as much as $1000.00 because they decided to run without one. When a system is designed it’s either made for one or not. If it’s not designed for one, then the sensitive components like air temp sensors and even the moving air doors are made differently so they can handle the dirt load. Adding a bunch of dirt to the system by not having a filter in place just invites trouble so make sure you
U of MN to Host Beef Skills Workshop University of Minnesota Extension will host a hands-on workshop for area beef and dairy farmers on Saturday, September 12th from 4:00-6:00 p.m. The workshop will be held at Clint & Roxane Kathrein’s farm, Kathrein Charolais: 11865 195th Street, Little Falls, MN 56345. This workshop will focus on practical skills that beef and dairy farmers use on a regular basis. Topics include dystocia (difficult calving) discussions & demonstrations with the life-sized model cow-Helga, reproduction systems, body condition scoring, udder scoring, foot scoring, stockmanship and animal handling, and injection site management. Teaching the sessions will be Dr. Angela Varnum-U of M Extension Veterinarian, Melissa Runck-U of M Extension Beef Specialist, and Brenda Miller-U of M Extension Educator. These sessions will be interactive, and the speakers will be demonstrating different skills and proper techniques during each session. “Managing and working with cattle can be quite stressful at times. However, learning some practical tips, tricks, and simple management solutions can help decrease some of
Eagle Outdoor Services
Spring/Fall Clean Up Lawn Care • Landscaping
Call For All Your Outdoor Needs! Call or Text Tyler
320-247-3744
that stress and ultimately increase a farmer’s bottom line in the long run.” says, Melissa Runck, U of M Beef Specialist. “These animals have tremendous value and anything we can do to reduce stress while remaining efficient and economical is key.” The program is directed at beef and dairy producers, allied industry representatives, and to those who work with cattle or are looking to get into the industry. This program is free to attend but RSVPs are appreciated. There will be a light meal provided by the Mississippi Valley Cattlemen’s Association. Please RSVP by September 9th by contacting Brenda Miller at the Todd County Extension Office at 320-533-4655, nels4220@ umn.edu or register online at: z.umn.edu/ BeefSkills If you have any questions about the event, please contact Brenda Miller at the Todd County Extension Office. For more information about beef production or additional U of M Extension Beef Team events, please visit: www.extension.umn.edu/beef.
keep a filter that’s clean in place. It’s cheap insurance for an expensive system. For others that don’t know if they have a filter make sure to find out. A good indication you have one and it’s dirty is a foul smell or reduced air flow. -Take care, the Motor Medics Dear Motor Medics, I have a 2020 Chevy and a 2018 Honda, and both have recalls on them. Both cars are running just fine and I have not experienced any of the issues in the recall that they want to fix because they’re crash related and I’ve never had a wreck. I did Google one of the recalls and only 2 people have had a problem out of thousands of vehicles, so do I really need to get them done or can I just wait and do them if I ever get the time to go to the dealership? -Mark in Iowa City Dear Mark, Go make that appointment right now and get the recalls done! The manufacturer would not take the time and spend the money (sometimes millions) to get the vehicle back in to perform a safety recall unless they felt strongly that something could cause you harm. Many recalls for safety are for things that can happen in a crash such as air bag recalls and seat belts, but even if you are a great driver the other person not always is and we don’t want to see you injured by something you don’t have repaired. All safety recalls we have seen are done at no cost to you and must be done at the dealership. They do a pretty good job at making the public aware of the recall but getting it in is your part. -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.
TOM’S AUTO BODY
Complete Auto Body & Paint Repair Free Estimates
320-266-4935
34741 Cty Rd 2 • Grey Eagle Upsala, MN
ELITE JUNK PROS Junk Removal & Demo Work
• Estate Cleanout • Garage Cleanout • House Cleanout • Attic/Basement Cleanout • Moving Cleanout • Commercial Cleanout
• Hoarder Cleanout • Yard Debris Removal • Skid Loader Work • Foreclosure Cleanout • Office Cleanout • Apartment Cleanout
Eric Gohman • 218-833-9664 elitejunkprosmn.com
www.pooptruck.com
LLC
Kirt Olson (owner) 320-632-8894
MPCA Licensed • Bonded • Insured New Customer & Referral Discounts Can keep truck off most lawns (185 ft. hose)
Hometown News • Thursday, September 3, 2026 • Page 7
Local Municipality Minutes Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com
Grey Eagle City • July 14, 2026 The regular meeting of the Grey Eagle City Council was called to order by Mayor Joseph Arnzen at 7:00 p.m. on the 14th day of July 2026 in Council Chambers. Council members present were Brad Johnson, Brian Hollenkamp, Roland Ahrendt and Chris Browen. No council members were absent. Also in attendance were Dan Berscheid, Beth Ramacher and guests: Brian Koehn, Lance Chase and Jeremy Freudenrich. A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve the agenda. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. A motion was made by Chris Browen to approve the minutes of the June 9, 2026 meeting. A second was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. Dan Berscheid was present to discuss the Statewide Volunteer Firefighter Defined Benefit Plan. A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to approve Resolution 2026-18: Governing Bodies to Join the Statewide Volunteer Defined Benefit Plan. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The ordinance reads as follows: A RESOLUTION FOR GOVERNING BODIES TO JOIN THE STATEWISE VOL-
Stearns Co. Sheriff’s Office
Crash: August 27, 2026: At approximately 3:40 P.M., Stearns County Deputies were dispatched to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Co. Rd. 17 and Co. Rd. 13 in Melrose Township, which is approximately 4 miles north of the City of Melrose. A witness reported the collision and advised that one of the vehicles was smoking. Shortly thereafter, the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames. Upon arrival, deputies located a 2012 Dodge Journey in the northeast ditch of the intersection. The vehicle, driven by Jose Montanez Botello, 23, Sauk Centre, was fully engulfed in flames, with the fire spreading into the surrounding ditch and woods. Passengers in the Journey were Guadalupe Botello Ambriz, 23, Sauk Centre and Noah Montanez Botello, 3, Sauk Centre. The second vehicle, a 2024 Subaru Ascent driven by Vivian Okutoyi, 33, Grey Eagle, sustained significant damage to the rear passenger-side area. Through the investigation and interviews with witnesses, deputies determined that the Subaru Ascent failed to yield the right-of-way and proceeded through the stop sign on County Road 17 while traveling eastbound. The Subaru entered the intersection and pulled in front of the northbound Dodge Journey. The Dodge Journey was unable to avoid the collision. No injuries were reported by the occupants of either vehicle. The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the Melrose Police Department, Minnesota State Patrol, Melrose Fire Department, and Melrose Ambulance. Okutoyi was cited for failure to yield. Crash: August 28, 2026: At 5:48 a.m., the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications Center received a call reporting a vehicle crash with injuries near the address of 19601 County Road 40 in Farming Township. The caller reported he had gone into the ditch and crashed causing the airbags of the vehicle to deploy. Deputies responded to the scene where the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was out of the vehicle and sitting near the shoulder of the roadway. The driver, identified as Benjamin McChesney, 19, of Melrose, reported he had fallen asleep while driving eastbound on County Road 40. The vehicle crossed over the west bound lane of traffic, entered the ditch, struck a field approach, re-entered the ditch on the other side, and rolled at least one time. The vehicle came to a rest on its wheels in the north ditch on County Road 40. McChesney was wearing his seatbelt and suffered minor, non-life-threatening injuries. McChesney was transported by Mayo Ambulance to St. Cloud Hospital for treatment. Alcohol is not considered to be a factor in the crash. The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on the scene by Avon Fire and Rescue and Mayo Ambulance Service.
UNTEER FIREFIGHTER DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN (SVF DBP) WHEREAS: The city is authorized to join the Statewide Volunteer Firefighter Defined Benefit Plan (SVF DBP) administered by the Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA); and WHEREAS: The city and the city’s fire department relief association have jointly consented to and obtained a cost analysis for joining the SVF DBP from PERA not more than 120 days ago; and WHEREAS: The city highly values the contributions of city fire department members to the safety and well-being of our community and wishes to safeguard their pension investments in a prudent manner; and WHEREAS: The existing benefit level for the city fire department is currently at $1700 per year of service pursuant to current relief association bylaws. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: by the city council of The City of Grey Eagle, Minnesota: 1. The city hereby approves coverage by and requests participation in the SVF DBP administered by PERA under the terms provided in the PERA cost analysis at the $2000 benefit level per year of service, effective January 1, 2027; and 2. The city hereby approves coverage by and requests participation in the SVF DBP administered by PERA under the terms provided in the PERA cost analysis with the vesting schedule beginning at 40% after 5 years of service, increasing by 4% each year until 100% vesting is reached after 20 years of service; and 3. The city clerk/administrator and mayor are hereby authorized to bring this resolution into effect. I, Joseph Arnzen, council member & Mayor of The City of Grey Eagle, do hereby certify that this is a true and correct transcript of the resolution that was adopted at a meeting held on the 14th of July, 2026; the original of which is on file in this office. I further certify that five members noted in favor of this resolution and that zero voted against the resolution. Total of five members were present and voting. Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 14th day of July 2026. Jeremy Freudenrich presented the monthly water and wastewater report from H2O Smartec. Quotes were reviewed for work to be done in the bottom of the water tower. The Sanitary Survey from MN Department of Health was reviewed. There is nothing that needs to be done at this time. The council was reminded that filing dates for the offices of Mayor and Council Member are July 14th – July 28th. Due to elections on August 11th, the August City Council Meeting will be 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12th. The meeting will begin in Council Chambers and then the Council will go to the water treatment plant for a tour. The following second quarter 2026 reports were reviewed: Todd County Sheriff and Utility Transaction History. A motion was made by Brad Johnson to approve the 2nd Quarter Utility Transaction Report. A second was made by Brian Hollenkamp and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve the annual lease of the propane tank at the west lift station. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried.
RJ's Country Store 28916 County Rd. 17 - St. Rosa
320-836-2583
A motion was made by Roland Ahrendt to approve a portable restroom from Nelson Sanitation in the park near the new playground equipment and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. Discussion was held on a few rundown houses within the City. The Clerk will reach out to the City Attorney for advice and next steps. Current water, sewer and garbage rates were discussed. Resolutions for bulk water, residential water, commercial water and garbage will be presented at the August meeting. A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2026-16: Sponsorship to the Initiative Foundation. A second was made by Chris Browen and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The ordinance reads as follows: RESOLUTION NO. 2026-16 RESOLUTION OF SPONSORSHIP: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SPONSORSHIP TO THE INITIATIVE FOUNDATION WHEREAS The Initiative Foundation helps build strong local economies and vibrant communities in nearly every city in Central Minnesota. The community and economic development services provided by the Initiative Foundation are essential resources to all that live, work and shop in Central Minnesota. BE IT RESOLVED that the Grey Eagle City Council hereby agrees to contribute $260.00 to the Initiative Foundation for the period from January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2027. Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 14th day of July 2026. A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve Resolution 2026-17: Accepting $7000 Donation from Grey Eagle/Burtrum Lions for Park Maintenance. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The ordinance reads as follows: RESOLUTION NO. 2026-17 A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING $7,000 DONATION FROM GREY EAGLE/BURTRUM LIONS CLUB FOR PARK MAINTENANCE WHEREAS, money has been donated by the Grey Eagle Burtrum Lions Club; and WHEREAS, the City Council feels that the donation will benefit citizens of the area; 1. That the City Council of the City of Grey Eagle formally accepts the donation from the Grey Eagle Burtrum Lions Club for Park Maintenance. 2. That the City Clerk is authorized and directed to make the appropriate revenue and expenditure budget adjustments as needed to reflect this donation and its intended use. Adopted by the Grey Eagle City Council this 14th day of July 2026 Brian Koehn presented the 2025 audit. A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve and submit the 2025 audit. A second
PROBATE NOTICE Filed in District Court State of Minnesota 08/20/2026
State of Minnesota, Todd County District Court, Seventh Judicial District Court File Number: 77-PR-26-732 Case Type: Informal Probate Notice of Informal Appointment of Personal Representative and Notice to Creditors (Without a Will) In re the Estate of JAY WILSON FLAA, Deceased TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given that an application for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Probate Registrar. No will has been presented for probate. The application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Self-Represented Litigant: Colleen Storey Address: PO Box 405, Sedalia, CO 80135 Phone Number: 1-720-665-3513 as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as Personal Representative, or may object to the appointment of the Personal Representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-607, and the court otherwise orders, the Personal Representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate. Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the Personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred. Lea Hippe, Probate Registrar Dated: 8-20-2026 Kim Peterson, Court Administrator Dated 8-20-2026
was made by Brad Johnson and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to approve payment of Claims #3833-3851, totaling $20,687.46 and include additional payments of the following: Great Minnesota Gas $75.00, MN Power $2033.03 and Kerzman Construction $1350.00. A second was made by Roland Ahrendt and upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. A motion was made by Brian Hollenkamp to adjourn the meeting at 7:51 p.m. A second was made by Brad Johnson upon vote, with all members voting in favor, motion carried. The next regular meeting of the Grey Eagle City Council will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 in Council Chambers. Beth Ramacher, Clerk/Treasurer
DK’S Tree & Landscaping, LLC.
BERSCHEIT FLOORING, LLC.
Firewood Available Including Delivery, Residential Landscaping & Bobcat Work
320-293-7100 Email: brad.berscheit@gmail.com
Now Offering Trim & Remove Trees, 70 ft. Boom, Decorative Brush Removal, Hedge Trimming, Concrete Stump Grinding & Removal Curbing!
320-630-0670 - David Kuhl
Free Estimates, Fully Insured Swanville • www.dkstree.com
Accept VISA, Discover or Master Card
BLENKERS
ROOFING OOFING,, LLC 320-256-5400
25+ Years Experience - Exceptional Quality • Hardwood • Tile & Custom Showers • Laminate • Snap Together Vinyl Products New House Discount - Qualifications Required
THE JUNCTION Convenience Store • Bait
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Hours: 6 AM to 10 PM Pizzas • Cold Spring Bakery Schaefer’s Meats • T-Shirts Leanin’ Tree Gift Cards
320-285-2383 • Grey Eagle
Gas/Diesel/Premium • Propane Exchange Groceries • Pep's Pork • Schaefer's Market Harry's Pizza • Bait • ATM
Lawn Care Services
• Weekly Lawn Care • Landscaping Call for a free estimate!
Caleb: 320-292-5357 Greenwald, MN
• 83' Spider Lift • Tree Trimming • Tree Removal We Offer a Veteran Discount • Free Estimates 20 Years Experience Service • Sewer Cleaning • Furnace Installation Remodels • New construction
Pete Norgren • 320-420-8711 norgrenplumbing.com
• Stump Removal • Lot Clearing • 18 Years Experience
320-260-9377 320-351-9018 CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK!
Page 8 • Hometown News • Thursday, September 3, 2026
INTERNET ONLY STAY CONNECTED! HIGH SPEED FIBER Family • Medical Work • School
RESIDENTIAL
We Have You Covered!
Get the latest and the greatest Fiber To The Home high speed internet service!
Fiber to the Home (FTTH)
• Includes a modem with a wireless router. • No required contract. No data limits. • Billing through ebill. A $2/month surcharge will apply if invoice is mailed.
$
77
.75 $
BUSINESS
87
.75
Serving: Upsala, Bowlus, Flensburg, Sobieski, Swanville, Holdingford, Pillsbury, Lake Beauty, Little Falls and Surrounding Areas
FOR SALE: 1997 Ford Mercury GMG, good condition, 129,000 miles, Dad’s car, asking $3,500. Call 320-293-3410.
www.sytekcom.com
You may qualify for a discount on your telephone or internet bill. Visit https://www.usac.org/lifeline/consumer-eligibility/ to see if you qualify!
LOST: Husqvarna chairsaw on 8/27 between Update Building Supply to Downy Drive North on CTY Road 102. Call 320309-2860 Mark Larson. GARAGE SALE: Sept. 3-4: 8am-6pm; Sept. 5: 8am-4pm. Teeter inversion table EP-560, Mantis tiller, gas lawn edger, rechargeable Rapala filet knife, Fisher Price, Tupperware, Precious Moments, fabric, tools, fishing, hunting, lawn & garden, furniture, housewares, golf clubs, clothing: girls 12-14/16, teen small thru womens plus size, mens XXL, books, games, toys, much misc. 3 miles East of Upsala, 6775 30th St. (Cty. 21) Larry Erickson Residence. HUGE MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE: On Highway 28, one block East of Grey Eagle. September 4, 5, 6. WANTED TO BUY: Dairy Heifers and Cows. 320-894-7175. SC-evB
• Newly Updated • Drive-Thru Window • Kitchen Set Up • Cafe/Coffee/Retail Boutique
Call Ben • 320-290-8373
117 South Main Street PO Box 277, Upsala, MN 56384
CLASSIFIED ADS
FOR RENT on Main Street Grey Eagle!
PER MONTH PER MONTH Up to 1 GB with Unlimited Data
320-573-1390 • 888-573-1390 Owned by UCTA
GREAT BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY!
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: 6 ft. pickup camper with top that goes up & down, reasonable price. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn FOR SALE: Reese 5th wheel hitch 16K w/ slide, $200. In Burtrum 970-518-9087. 9/3 FOR SALE: 1991 Dodge van, has bed, TV, 318 engine, $5,900. Call 320-267-5632. RB-tfn
FOR SALE: Wheel chairs, antique furniture, car plaques & beer cans, homecoming/prom dresses, golf balls. Call 320-2513133. 9/10 FOR SALE: Yamaha 9.9 HP 4 stroke w/ shift, speed control, manual start, $1,000 or b/o. In Burtrum 970-518-9087. 9/24 FOR SALE: Hay. Call 320-249-5047. 9/10
FOR SALE: Troy-Bilt 3” inch capacity towable chipper/shredder. Call 320-4936387. FOR SALE: Vintage JD field cultivator, 8 ft. with ground lift, works good, $350 or BO. Call 320-250-3874. FOR SALE: Queen-sized bed frame with box spring foundation & headboard in excellent condition, $75 O.B.O. Text or call 320-249-7694. 9/24-WD
FOR SALE: Triton snowmobile trailer, new tires, 2 spare tires, lights work, removable sides, lifetime license, tilt bed, $1100. 320-290-0924. 9/10 FOR SALE: Beets and red potatoes. Call 320-632-3336. FOR SALE: Black rod-iron king size head board. Call 320-292-3196 can send photo. FOR SALE: Fully restored 1926 Ford Model T, 1922 Dearborne 1 ton truck, 1920 GMC 3/4 ton truck. Call 320-251-3133. 9/10
North Central SBDC Offering Marketing Mornings The North Central Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Central Lakes College is excited to announce the 20262027 Marketing Mornings season. Marketing Mornings is a no-cost monthly series designed to help small business owners keep their marketing efforts fresh, practical, and manageable. “Marketing can feel like a moving target for small business owners, especially as trends, platforms, and tools continue to change,” said Katie Heppner, Regional Director of the North Central SBDC. “Marketing Mornings keeps things simply by offering timely, easy-to-use marketing training in a relaxed format.” Participants can join virtually by Zoom from their home or office, or they can attend a local watch party to connect with other business owners. All sessions begin at 8 a.m. and are held on a Friday. The 2026-2027 season includes: • September 11: How to Create Video Content • October 2: Understanding the Differences Between Social Media Platforms • November 6: Marketing for the Holidays • December 4: The Do’s and Don’ts of AI Image Generation • January 8: Understanding Answer En-
gine Optimization • February 5: Making the Most Out of Old School Media (Newspaper & Radio) • March 5: Getting Started with Email Marketing • April 2: Generative AI for Marketing • May 7: Marketing for Tourist Season Local watch parties will be hosted throughout the region, giving attendees a chance to learn alongside other small business owners, entrepreneurs, and local leaders. Participants may register for as many sessions as they’d like. To learn more and to register, visit www.northcentralsbdc.com/ marketingmornings.
A Chicken Funny
One day the first grade teacher was reading the story of Chicken Little to her class. She came to the part of the story where Chicken Little tried to warn the farmer. She read, “...and so Chicken Little went up to the farmer and said, ‘The sky is falling, the sky is falling!’” The teacher paused then asked the class, “And what do you think that farmer said?” One little girl raised her hand and said, “I think he said, ‘Holy cow! A talking chicken!’”
HAPPY
ADAPTED ADVERTISEMENTS ATLAS BALLS CLICK CORAL COSTS CREST ELDER FANCY FORCED FORTH FRAIL
FREED FUNDS GHOST GLACIERS HELPFUL INDIA ISOLATED LAYER LOBSTER LOCKING LODGE LOOKS LOSES
MANAGE MODEL NATURAL NOISE OLIVE OPERA PEELS PENNED POOLS PROOF ROCKET RULERS RUSSIA
SANDS SCHEME SCRIPTS SHOCK SIDES SNOWS SPEND TREES VASES ZEBRA
LABOR DAY UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TODAY WE CELEBRATE THE DEDICATION, CREATIVITY, AND HARD WORK BEHIND EVERY DREAM.
rahnfuels.com 1220 E Main St Melrose MN 56352 320.256.3680