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‘As long as kids Town Crier are getting sick . . .’ Friday, Dec. 9, 2016 Volume 2, Issue 48 Est. 2015
St. Stephen to hold winter extravaganza
The City of St. Stephen Winter Extravaganza will be held Sunday, Dec. 11. Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit with children from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Reindeer will pull sleigh rides around City Hall. In lieu of admission, bring a food shelf item or unwrapped toy.
Fare For All to sell holiday packs
Fare For All will sell holiday packs for $30 from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12 at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 610 C.R. 2, St. Joseph. Each pack includes a 7-pound spiral cut ham, a whole chicken, chicken strips, two packages of ground beef, two bags of mixed vegetables and an apple pie. All are welcome. Holiday packs make great gifts for employees, those in need and families.
Program hosted by Salem Church
The historic Salem Community Church will present its OldFashioned Christmas at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17. Reindeer sleigh rides will occur from 3-4:15 p.m. with the Christmas program following at 4:30 p.m. Homemade cookies and refreshments will be served. Salem Community Church is located at 28547 220th St., four miles north of Paynesville.
by Dave DeMars news@thenewsleaders.com
Myelodysplastic Syndrome is a bone-marrow disorder in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy blood cells. It primarily affects older people, but not always. Probably one of the most recognizable persons affected by the disease was television broadcaster Robin Roberts of “Good Morning America.” But knowing these facts would have been little comfort to Tanner Fuls or his mother and father, Cindy and John Fuls. Cindy Fuls will never forget the summer of 2010. That was the time when she and husband John learned their son, Tanner, had MDS. “Tanner was a very athletic, red-headed, blue eyed, smiley
young boy,” Cindy said. “He was very active the summer of 2010 – involved in hockey, his favorite sport, then baseball. He did all that stuff that summer. We had noticed some bruises on his body throughout the summer, but we just figured he was being his athletic self.” He was at the family cabin one weekend in the summer of 2010 when he bumped his arm. That was when he noticed a really terrible-looking bruise formed almost immediately from that bump. He came down to the lake to show his parents the bruise, and they knew it was more than just a simple bruise that 11-year-old boys often get. Immediately after that weekend, they took Tanner to St. Cloud Medical Group and were Kids • page 2
INSERT:
Batteries Plus Bulbs
Pictured left to right are parents Cindy and John Fuls and their daughter Maddie. In memory of Tanner, Cindy and John created the Tanner’s Team Foundation to help the families of children stricken with life-threatening illnesses.
Other options considered for lake-river drawdown by Dennis Dalman editor@thenewsleaders.com
Plans for a drawdown of Little Rock Lake near Rice and part of the Mississippi River have reached a snag, and alternative options will have to be considered, according to a press release from the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources’ Little Falls Fisheries Office. DNR officials recently met with Eagle Creek Energy, which operates the dam on the Mississippi River at Sartell. That dam is crucial in lowering the level of the river upstream so the lake and river levels can be lowered by about three feet. The original plan was to
lower those bodies of water by that level so eco-system health could be enhanced in both. However, Eagle Creek Energy officials said there would be significant loss of revenue with less energy generated at the dam during a drawdown, as well as complexities having to do with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
Thus far, the alternatives include the following: • Operate the dam at a lower level (2 feet instead of 3 feet). • A temporary coffer constructed that would isolate Little Rock Lake by using a water-inflatable tube dam. Using a temporary tube dam and pumping after a shorter four- to Options • page 3
When students talk to walls
Jolly Trolley food drive runs through Saturday
St. Cloud Metro Bus, Royal Tire and Townsquare Media are hosting the Jolly Trolley food drive at participating Coborn’s, Cash Wise, Lunds + Byerly’s and Walmart stores to help area families this holiday season. The annual drive, formally known as the “Fill the Flyer” food drive, benefits local food shelves in the Metro Bus service area. This year’s drive will use the Metro Bus trolley bus as a collection vehicle, hence the name change. Also new this year is the addition of supporting the Promise Neighborhood food shelf along with the food shelves at the Salvation Army and Catholic Charities Emergency Services. Look for the Jolly Trolley at these locations: 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8: Coborn’s, Sauk Rapids; 4-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9: Coborn’s, located on Pinecone Avenue, Sartell; and 10 a.m. -1 p.m. Saturday,
photo by Dave DeMars
by Dave DeMars news@thenewsleaders.com
contributed photo
This year’s Sauk Rapids-Rice High School speech members are an optimistic and happy group of presenters, as this photo, so filled with energy, clearly shows. The members are (front row, seated) Alex Zapf; (second row, kneeling) Catherine Julius, Elayne Lampe, Tiana Hanson; and (standing) Dylan Roering, Jacob Hoeschen, Cassandra Leen, Christen Summar, Emily Berg, Roger Rubenstein, Kyle Moran, Breanna Westby, Emily Roberts, Elizabeth Zuurbier, Ellie Fedor, Abby Neison, Calista Barrett, Elizabeth Julius, Bryce Paulson, Morgan Paulson, Isaiah Okongo. Not pictured is Eve Mock.
According to a survey in Psychology Today, having to give a speech is a major fear for most people. In fact, for some people it’s a fear worse than death. And yet, there are students at the local high school who brave the fear and even triumph over it. The start of the speech season is upon us, said speech coach Joan Hauck, who along with fellow coaches Tad Hoeschen and Emily Peterson, will work with students. Soon students will be meeting once, twice, three times a week to hone and perfect their personal speaking skills. Many will practice at home in front of mir-
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rors. Practice means not only memorizing the speech and the nuance of the piece, it also involves practicing a smile, a gesture, even the body attitude in many instances. “We have about 20 or 25 kids participating,” Hauck said, “but I have to tell you, we are very small compared to some schools. In large city schools, we are talking teams of hundreds. It’s the most participated in activity in the (United States).” Members of the speech team compete in 13 categories; Creative Expression, Discussion, Duo Interpretation, Extemporaneous Reading, Extemporaneous speaking, Great Speeches, Humorous Interpretation, InTalk • page 3
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Kids from front page told the bruise was certainly something for concern. The Medical Group sent the Fulses to Children’s Hospital in the Twin Cities, and they performed a full battery of tests. Children’s Hospital surmised it was one of three things: a post-viral infection, a pre-leukemia condition or Myelodysplastic Syndrome. For three weeks, during which Tanner had his blood platelets collected and analyzed, the family prayed and hoped everything would turn out for the best. After three weeks and much analysis, Children’s Hospital called and said Tanner had
MDS. “It’s a form of pre-leukemia, and we learned he would have to undergo a bone-marrow transplant,” Cindy said. “We didn’t know how long he had had it. He could have had it for six months or for a year. We just don’t know.” Cindy said looking back, there were some signs early in that summer, but they were subtle. Things like not being quite able to finish his shift on the hockey line. They noticed his endurance wasn’t quite what it normally had been. By the first week in September and throughout the month, Tanner was receiving chemotherapy treatment in preparation for the bone-marrow transplant. He rested for another four weeks until near the end of
October and then entered the hospital at the University of Minnesota Oct. 28 for the bone-marrow t r a n s p l a n t , Tanner Cindy said. “He had the bone-marrow transplant on Nov. 8 and was doing fine,” Cindy said, “but then he developed an infection and ended up going into ICU and being intubated at that time. On Nov. 27, he lost his battle that night.” “From July through November, it was a four-month journey,” John Fuls said. The family survived thanks to the support they provided to one another and the sup-
People The Storm ‘n Sabres girls’ varsity hockey team defeated Willmar High School 7-0 on Friday, Dec. 2. Bria Ferns and Brooke Walters each had a six-point night.
If you have a tip concerning a crime, call the Sauk Rapids Police Department at 320-251-9451 or Tri-County Crime Stoppers at 320-255-1301 or access its tip site at www.tricountycrimestoppers.org. Crime Stoppers offers rewards up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for crimes. Nov. 1 10:15 a.m. Medical. Fifth Avenue N. Police assisted a male who was having difficulty breathing. Oxygen was administered, and Gold Cross Ambulance paramedics arrived on the scene. The man was transported to St. Cloud Hospital for further medical care. 3:49 p.m. Animal complaint. Sixth Avenue N. Police responded to a complaint of a dog that was constantly off its leash.
Ferns tallied two goals and four assists while Walters had a hat trick and three assists to help move the Storm’n Sabres to 3-1-1 overall and 2-0 in the Central Lakes Con-
Blotter
The complainant requested officers make contact with the owner and inform him/her of the leash law and pet ordinances of the city. Nov. 2 10:15 a.m. Traffic stop. River Avenue N. While on routine patrol, police observed a vehicle with expired tabs. The vehicle was pulled over, and the driver stated she was in the process of transferring the insurance from her father from whom she acquired the car. The vehicle was insured, and a verbal warning was issued. 11:25 p.m. Traffic stop. Second Street N./Benton Drive N. Police observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. A traffic stop was initiated, and the driver was given a verbal warning. No further action was taken.
ference. Megan Mohr and Bre Hess each added goals in the victory. Madi DeMarais registered 13 saves for her first career win and second shutout of the year.
Nov. 3 11:49 a.m. Violation. Benton Drive N./First Avenue. A bus driver reported a vehicle that had driven through the stop arm. He had a license-plate number, but when it was run, it came back as invalid. 3:41 p.m. 10th Avenue N.E. Officers were dispatched to a female who was having extreme confusion. She also had a history of infections. Gold Cross Ambulance paramedics arrived on the scene and transported the woman to St. Cloud Hospital for further medical assistance. 10:16 p.m. Medical. Division Street. Police were dispatched for a woman suffering from chest pains who was having difficulty breathing. Gold Cross Ambulance paramedics arrived shortly after the officers and took the patient to St. Cloud Hospital for further care.
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port they received from their church and their friends and family, Cindy said. The community really helped, she said. Friends from church rallied round and collectively helped them through that time of grief. “They got us to where we are today,” Cindy said. Tanner’s younger sister, Maddie, (she was 8 when Tanner died) shared her insights into how his death affected her. “I learned we had to stick together and to be positive toward one another,” Maddie said. The pain of loss is not so raw today as it once was, Cindy noted. “I remember someone a year after saying that ‘with time it gets easier,’ and I just remember at two and three years thinking it doesn’t get better, but I can honestly say at this point, it does get better,” Cindy said. The idea for Tanner’s Team Foundation was an outgrowth of Tanner’s participation in all kinds of teams and sports. “We always had Tanner’s team when Tanner was in the hospital,” John said, “so our bracelets and everything all said ‘Tanner’s Team’ on them. So when Tanner passed away, Cindy and I decided we needed something to do because the community was so good to us, the people in Central Minnesota were so good to us, that we needed to find a way we could give back and at the same time keep Tanner’s legacy alive.” In June of 2011, John and Cindy started the foundation named after Tanner, a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt organization with the objective of helping other families in central Minnesota that have children with life-threatening illnesses, not just cancer, but any life-threatening illnesses. They do this through financial grants or gifts that can be used to cover housing, transportation and household expenses, or nearly any other kinds of expenses incurred by a family during their child’s care and treatment for a
Friday, Dec. 9, 2016 life-threatening disease. John explained a doctor from the bone-marrow transplant team serves as the medical officer on the foundation staff who reviews each application to determine eligibility. Applications can be obtained from social workers, the hospital or clinics. When an application is made, it’s reviewed to determine if applicants meet the two criteria: they must live in one of the 38 counties served by the foundation, and the child must have a life-threatening illness. This year the foundation will have made grants totaling $39,000 to families in need. Funds are raised in a number of ways for the foundation. The biggest fundraiser is a 5K run held in June of each year. In March, right around the time of Tanner’s birthday, a spaghetti dinner has been held at Rollie Rednecks & Longnecks HonkyTonk Bar in rural Sauk Rapids. Last summer they had a charity golf tournament to raise funds sponsored by Northwestern Mutual who donated proceeds, $30,000, to Tanner’s Team Foundation. Donations from private individuals and community service organizations such as the Lions, Rotary, the Elks and others also help to fund the foundation. The foundation has been in existence for five years now. “In March of this year, we helped our hundredth family, and in October of 2016, we went over the $100,000 mark of grants paid out to families,” John said. “Grants now average about $1,000 per family.” Things are going well for the foundation this year, John said. Milestones have been reached, and families are being helped. Organizations and groups now reach out to the foundation more because the mission is becoming more well known. “As long as kids are still getting sick,we want to be there to help them,” John said. To learn more about the Tanner’s Team Foundation and how you can help out, visit www.tannersteam.org.
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Friday, Dec. 9, 2016
Options from front page five-day drawdown would initiate a longer-term drawdown within Little Rock Lake and in the river channel area. According to the DNR, those options are doable and funding can be acquired for them. The DNR intends to work closely with the Little Rock Lake Association and the Benton County Soil and Water Conservation District to draft a grant proposal for a project that could happen in the summer of 2018.
Talk from front page formative Speaking, Original Oratory, Serious Drama Interpretation, Serious Poetry Interpretation, Serious Prose Interpretation and Storytelling. Hauck said she would love to have 40 participants but for a long time, speech had some sort of stigma about not being cool, but that attitude is changing as kids see it more often. Speech offers a variety of levels for competition, and it emphasizes the good things parents like to see in their kids. “The students are the most respectful – we never have a problem, and we take over the entire high school when we have an invitational,” Hauck said. “And when they leave, the custodians say, ‘Besides them talking to walls, those are the nicest kids I’ve ever met.’” Hauck said at just about any meet, prior to first round, students will be scattered throughout the school talking to a wall – getting the last bit of practice in before entering the competition room.
How it works
Any one of these categories is pressure-packed. At a meet called a “speech invitational,” each speaker will compete against individuals from another school or in some cases, many schools. Competitors may sit in the room and watch the competition along with other audience members and a judge. Often, because of the time when invitationals occur, competitors will provide the only audience. Sometimes, there is only the judge. The judge scores each presented piece from one to six, looking for several different judging criteria depending on the category of the speech. Common elements judged include things such as voice (flexibility, intonation and volume); physical presence such as body language; and manner, which includes di-
Sauk Rapids-Rice Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com Excessive nutrients in Little Rock Lake have accumulated over time, causing undesirable weed growth and lack of water clarity due to massive algae blooms. In addition, during algae blooms, the lake water can be highly dangerous to children, pets and even adults. A drawdown, according to the DNR, could restore the quality of the lake by causing good vegetation to grow, by increasing the uptake of nutrients like phosphorus and by preventing erosion (and also nutrient runoff) on shorelines. The results would enhance the lake for fish and wildlife habitat. Some of the same problems
exist in the river in the area between Little Rock Lake and the Sartell area. In the meantime, the DNR is trying to address other problems, which include agriculture runoff from the watershed north of the lake, promoting alternative-farming methods, manure management and septic-system upgrades in the area. If a drawdown is accomplished in 2018, it would likely last six weeks, from the second week of July to the end of August. A drawdown would reduce recreation somewhat in Little Rock Lake and also on the river up to the Rice bridge.
rectness, self assurance and enthusiasm. In categories such as original oratory, discussion and story telling, a competitor might also be judged on things such as structure and organization, achievement of purpose, interest, logic and originality of thought. There is plenty to challenge one’s self confidence and assurance when making a presentation, and yet members of the speech team will prepare for hours, rehearse for days in order to challenge and wrestle with what (and for many of us in the population at large) is their worst fear – speaking in public before an audience. Invitationals are often held on Saturday and will take the entire day. “Often we are not back at school until 6 p.m. at night,” Hauck said. For some categories, just having speaking talent is not enough. One needs to have skills in research and marshaling one’s arguments in order to be successful. Discussion is one of those categories. “What it takes to become good at discussion is when you are in the practice room, doing a lot of research,” said coach Tad Hoeschen. “You have to know what the discussion topics are. During the season there are three times when topic selections are opened and changed.” So preparing for discussion of one topic is not enough. A student must prepare for several topics through reading and research and honing discussion skills in order to present the strongest argument. And then they must learn to listen to the arguments of others while marshaling their own positions on the topic. The goal is to reach a consensus as to how to best approach a given controversial topic, such as the role of government and individual privacy. “But it is not a debate,” Hoeschen said. “It’s really a presentation. To be a first-year competitor and do well is very difficult because it takes a long time to learn all the little
nuances – how to be assured without being mean, and how to be nice without being too mellow and not say enough.” Doing interpretation pieces is a bit easier, Hoeschen said, because competitors can focus solely on what they bring to the presentation of a piece. They do not have to concern themselves with what someone else is saying.
The value of speech
“Public speaking has never been my strong suit,” said junior Calista Barrett, a firstyear speech student looking to compete in original oratory. “I guess this will help me strengthen that.” One might wonder why any students would put themselves through the challenge of speech as opposed to, say, tennis or swimming or working on the student newspaper. Coach Hoeschen added another insight. He himself did many of the other activities in high school and college. “I did choir and football and wrestling and tennis and speech,” Hoeschen said. “I did speech in high school and college and found far more value in being able to use the skills that we learn here – being able to overtly speak to people, doing a media interview or talking to a group of people – those are absolutely fantastic skills a lot of kids in this new generation don’t have.” One of the other things that makes speech so valuable is colleges really like to see high-school students have attempted this activity – even if only for a year, Hauck said. “I’ve watched students compete in other schools and other states,” said coach Emily Peterson, “and they are putting themselves willingly in a vulnerable position. I think that speaks volumes as to why this is so valuable. They get to practice and challenge themselves to do better each time they get up to speak. You have to be brave to do it.”
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Ask-a-Trooper
What is the difference between careless or reckless driving? What about ‘exhibition driving?’ Q: What is the difference between careless or reckless driving? What about “exhibition driving”? A: In general, the difference between reckless and careless is that “reckless” is generally “intentional” or the driver “should know” that the driving behavior could injure or kill someone. Here’s more detail on how they differ: Reckless driving – This involves a motorist who’s aware of and disregards the risk that their driving behavior may result in harm to another or another’s property. That’s considered misdemeanor reckless driving, and if the behavior results in great bodily harm or death to another person, it’s then gross misdemeanor reckless driving. A driver shall not race any vehicle on any street or highway. Any person who willfully compares or contests relative speeds is guilty of racing, which constitutes reckless driving. It doesn’t matter whether or not the speed is over the speed limit. Careless driving – This involves a motorist who carelessly or heedlessly operates or halts any vehicle upon any street or highway that disregards the rights of others, or endangers or is likely to endanger any property or any person. This includes endangering themselves or their passengers. This is considered misdemeanor careless driving. Exhibition driving - Minnesota does not have an “exhibition driving” law. “Exhibition
driving” is usually listed as an ordinance within cities, counties, townships or other. In general, the difference between state law and an ordinance is that a state law is passed by your state government and is effective statewide. Ordinances are “laws” passed by the local government – city council, county commissioners or other – and only in effect within that border. I’ve usually seen most “exhibition driving” ordinances state: “Unreasonable acceleration of a motor vehicle or acceleration without apparent reason and accomplished in such a manner as to cause squealing or screeching sounds by the tires, or the throwing of sand or gravel by the tires of the said vehicle, or both.” These do not apply to an emergency vehicle responding to a call or when in pursuit of an actual or suspected violator. They also don’t apply to any raceway, racing facility or other public event sanctioned by the appropriate governmental authority. A portion of state statutes was used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Hwy. 10 W., Detroit Lakes, Minn. 56501-2205. (You can follow him on Twitter @ MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).
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Friday, Dec. 9, 2016
Rice Lions honored with awards
contributed photo
A special guest presented awards at the Rice Lions’ recent annual banquet at the Lions Community Building in Rice. Past Lions District Gov. Everett Sobania (far right, front row) gave the awards to the following: (front row, left to right) Gerry Maleska, honored for the Can Do Canines program; Chuck Popp, honored with Melvin Jones and Catcher awards; Wayne Larson, Melvin Jones award; Steve Wollak, honored for the Leader Dog program; and special guest Sobania. In the second row (left to right) are Corey Vannurden, honored for the Hearing program; Duane Ott, Melvin Jones award; Tyler Nelson, Lion of the Year award; Scott Bierman, honored for the Leader Dog program; and Mike Gans, honored for the Hearing program. photo by Dennis Dalman
Parents Joseph and Mary gaze with wonder at their baby, Jesus, in a manger in Bethlehem. Standing by are two angels, a wise man and a shepherd. The Living Nativity scene was staged by members of the Living Waters church of Sauk Rapids in the Coborn’s parking lot. It was one of many Christmas-themed activities Dec. 3 in Sauk Rapids.
Living Waters stages Living Nativity by Dennis Dalman editor@thenewsleaders.com
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Appreciative crowds gathered to see the Living Nativity event staged by members of Living Waters Lutheran church Dec. 3 in the parking lot of Coborn’s grocery store in Sauk Rapids. In a wooden shelter designed to resemble an animal manger, adults and children, playing the roles of the biblical characters, gathered to act out the scene of the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem 2,015 years ago. The cast of characters included
Mary and Joseph, shepherds, angels, three wise men and, not to forget, baby Jesus in his makeshift cradle. The baby was, in fact, a very life-looking doll. It was a nippy day for the Living Nativity, with an occasional brisk wind, but all involved took the chilly day in stride, with characters acting their parts in shifts, allowing previous characters to warm up. Living Waters will continue its celebration of the Christmas season with a special presentation on Saturday, Dec. 24,
called “Christmas Eve in a Barn,” which will take place on that day, Christmas-Eve day, at noon, 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. in a barn at 5400 Golden Spike Road (the road that leads to the high school). On that same day, the church will host two Christmas Eve candlelight ceremonies at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. at its home base, the church at 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids. For more about upcoming Christmas-related events, see the stories, calendar and church listings in this and upcoming editions of the Newsleader.
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Rice council tables direct deposit – again by Dave DeMars news@thenewsleaders.com
The Rice City Council, minus council member Chris Scheel, stubbed their toes again at the Dec. 5 meeting when they got tripped up by the issue of payment of payroll wages through direct deposit. The city has only a half dozen or so full-time employees, but some members of the volunteer fire department are asking for payment by paper check because of concerns about disclosure of some of their bank-routing numbers and the like. Council member Alan Voigt has championed the right of the firefighters or anyone else to receive a paper paycheck rather than have direct deposit mandated by the city council. The matter was originally dealt with at a meeting in 2014 when it was on the consent agenda and was agreed to with little discussion. At the Nov. 28 council meeting, council member Paula Kampa asked to have the matter tabled so she could research the issue and be more prepared at the Dec. 5 meeting. Kampa said she had spoken with the current city treasurer, Sheri Johnson, about the safety issue of direct deposit and came away confident that information was properly safeguarded by the city. “I also checked with some banks about what is the preferred method that banks like to use,” Kampa said. “They like the direct deposit.” The reason, Kampa said, was there was an immediate and direct reconciliation of funds with no waiting for a check to be cashed or the danger of being lost. Kampa also said she went back to records of the 2014 meeting and found the original resolution was simply part of the consent agenda. “During that meeting, I stated that, no, I didn’t like the mandated part,” Voigt said. “I said I wanted to give them
another choice.” “But you didn’t pull it out,” said Kampa referring to the need to pull the item from the consent agenda and place it in the business portion of the agenda. “I guess that’s my fault for trusting,” Voigt said. Kampa said when she started as a council member shortly after that decision, she was told she would have to take direct deposit because of that decision. Voigt said the city was obviously not upholding the 2014 resolution in a consistent manner since some paper paychecks had been issued to some city employees in 2015, and now there would be paper checks issued to some employees in 2016. At the Nov. 28 meeting, Mayor Dale Rogholt acknowledged there had been a lapse in the consistent application of the resolution. In an attempt to rectify that, he had suggested issuing paper checks for the remainder of 2016 to those who wanted them but that beginning Jan. 1, 2017, all employee paychecks would be disbursed via direct deposit. Voigt said he wanted to change the resolution and meet with the city attorney to draft a resolution that would be acceptable to those who were concerned about direct deposit and allowing them to request paper checks. Rogholt thought it a bad idea. If we were to put permissible in the resolution, he said, who is to say one day they would want paper and the next day they would want direct deposit. He added the present resolution was already acceptable. Council member Brian Skroch interjected the resolution might not be acceptable. “In the state of Minnesota, they do not mandate we have to have direct deposit,” Skroch said. “But it’s there so government bodies can adopt it,” Rog-
holt replied. “I don’t think you can use the word mandate because the state of Minnesota does not mandate you have to have direct deposit,” Skroch said. Discussion then centered around whether the state allowed for the city to mandate direct deposit or not, with both Skroch and Rogholt advancing their arguments and Rogholt arguing even the state mandates direct deposit for its employees. Why then couldn’t the city mandate? Voigt suggested the reason the state mandated it was because it has more than six employees. Loud discussion continued with members talking over one another, making it difficult to sort out objections. Members of the audience joined the discussion. Citizen Ken Nodo maintained if the majority of the council had passed the resolution in 2014, then it was in effect and it required a resolution to change that. Another citizen, Kevin Kruger, suggested those who required hand-written paper checks be charged a fee for the check, perhaps $10. Caleb Voigt voiced the concerns of some members of the Rice Fire Department, asking whether there is a minimum amount for direct deposit? The answer was no. Caleb Voigt questioned whether, in the event numbers on private checking accounts were compromised, how would members know and was there any guarantee members would be made whole should they suffer losses? Kampa said the city has insurance that would protect them in the event compromised information resulted in a loss. “Our insurance policy has an endorsement on it for cyber liability,” Kampa said. “That’s what it covers.” Caleb Voigt said some of the long-standing firefightDeposit • back page
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Above: Mayor Dale Rogholt seeks clarification on a point from City Clerk Stephanie Fischer during discussion of the direct-deposit issue. Below: Council member Paula Kampa explains her finding with regard to the recent direct-deposit issue before the city council.
Sauk Rapids-Rice Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com
6
Our View
Trump should set up blind trust ASAP Suddenly, the “Emoluments Clause” in the U.S. Constitution is a topic of hot debate and with good reason: A billionaire real-estate mogul with scores of foreign financial-business connections has just been elected president. An emolument means “any salary, fee or profit from employment or office.” Constitutional scholars and political leaders, both Democrat and Republican, are urging Donald Trump to divest himself of his assets, to place them in a blind trust under management of an independent financial trustee. Trump has said he will let his three adult children run his business while he concentrates solely on running the country. It’s a facetious solution, at best. As if his children are strangers who will not have daily discussions with their father about “Say, how are things going in the business these days?” Trump even claims the emoluments clause does not pertain to presidents. Actually, he has a point, technically, because there are some scholarly disagreements on that score. However, throughout American presidential history, there has been a long tradition of presidents abiding by the emoluments clause – that is, being very careful not to accept any payments or gifts from foreign powers. The Founding Fathers, those who wrote the U.S. Constitution, were painfully aware of corruption in the “Old World” – how gifts, payments and bribes brought favors for kings and higherups from rich people in their own countries and in foreign governments – the kinds of “bribes” that can influence policies. One can argue that is already happening in the United States, what with powerful domestic lobbyists like the National Rifle Association. But these kinds of inducements to corruption are especially dangerous if they come to influence heavily foreign-policy decisions, including warmaking powers. The Founding Fathers were keenly aware of the risks of a free country, that freedom has a down side sometimes. Alexander Hamilton wrote this in the Federalist Papers: “One of the weak sides of republics, among their numerous advantages, is that they afford too easy an inlet to foreign corruption.” This is what the U.S. Constitution states, the so-called Emoluments Clause: “No Title of Nobility shall be granted by the United States: And no Person holding any Office of Profit or Trust under them, shall, without the Consent of the Congress, accept any present, Emolument, Office or Title, of any kind whatsoever, from any King, Prince or foreign State.” Many American presidents were so sensitive about conflicts of interest through gifts from foreigners they voluntarily rejected them or gave them back. For example, President Andrew Jackson was given a gold medallion by Colombian President Simon Bolivar. Jackson asked for Congress’ advice about the medallion and was told he could not keep it. Trump’s presidency is highly unusual, historically unusual because of his vast wealth and foreign connections. He would do well to set up a blind trust – and quickly – or his entire presidency could be sullied, possibly to the point of impeachment efforts. Trump may do some good things as president, but lingering doubts about conflicts of interest will cast a shadow on everything he achieves, no matter how good – or bad.
The ideas expressed in the letters to the editor and of the guest columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of the Newsleaders. Letters to the editor may be sent to news@thenewsleaders.com or P.O. Box 324, St. Joseph, MN 56374. Deadline is noon Monday. Please include your full name for publication (and address and phone number for verification only.) Letters must be 350 words or less. We reserve the right to edit for space.
Opinion
Friday, Dec. 9, 2016
Big green porcupine gives way for Christmas One day last week, I wrestled with a giant green porcupine. I almost lost. The “porcupine” was the artificial Christmas tree I bought years ago, the one that never gave me any trouble – until the day it darned near killed me. At first, the assembly process went well – no injuries – except for some trouble with the bottom pole in the treestand. I had to shove a wash rag in there to make it tight. The tree stood in the middle of the living room, ready to be decorated. Nextdoor neighbor Marty agreed to help me. She has an amazing knack for Christmasdecorating. We put the five strings of lights on the tree, going round and round in a kind of dizzying two-step. Minutes later, the tree – all seven feet of it – turned ugly as it morphed into a porcupine crossed with a mule. I had to get down on my belly like a living-room lizard – fat and flat – to scoot the tree by its stand to its intended position by the wall. Its branch wires kept poking me in the face. “Ouch!” That was just one of the words I kept shouting; the others were more colorful than a strand of tree lights. “Dennis, take your time!” Marty advised. “You’re going to have a heart attack.” Sure enough, I almost did have a coronary after I struggled to my feet, stood back wobbily and beheld that varmint. It was as crooked as Donald Trump, and its top was stuck on the ceiling where the ceiling slants down to the windows – way too far from the wall. Then it dawned on me: The pole I’d crammed into the stand did not go all the way down into the tube because of that dumb wash rag I’d used. “Oops,” Marty said. I was about to shout “Bah! Humbug!” and rip the tree apart. I let out a howl
Dennis Dalman Editor of outrage. The dogs, Skippy and Daisy, quickly retreated, shivering with fright as they watched, ears drooping, from behind the chairs. “Now, calm down,,” Marty cautioned. “There must be a way to fix it.” “Yes, there is!” I said, leaving the room to get my snip pliers. I returned, climbed the step-stool and started snipping away top mini-branches after taking off the star. It was a frantic effort to make the fiend shorter to fit against the wall. “Arrgh!” I shouted in pain as the wires kept stabbing my hands. “This %&**# tree!” “Dennis, don’t get so worked up,” Marty said. “Swearing’s not going to help.” Nor did all the snipping. The pesky contraption just stood there – stubborn, stuck, hopeless – as so did we. In a sudden burst of energy, I had an idea, even though I try to avoid energetic ideas because they usually lead to injuries. “Marty, I’m going to tip the tree, and you hold it,” I said. “I’m going to bang the stand off, remove the wash rag and pound the pole all the way down into it.” After I tilted the tree into Marty’s arms, I scrunched down and pounded away with rubber mallet at the stand to get it off. I heard a whimpering sound. “I can’t hold it anymore,” Marty said in a panic. “Too heavy!” I quickly grabbed a chair and forced it into the thrashing critter.
Poor Marty, who is a short woman to begin with, looked like a sudden hunchback, as if some of her discs had slipped. “Are you OK? You OK?” “No,” she said. As I kept wrestling with that green commotion, it decided to do a thrashing tango with me before I clumsily danced it into submission. Then it lost many of its branches, which had to be re-attached with patience – something I sorely lacked by that time. Finally, after more huffing and puffing, what a relief, it fit right where it’s supposed to be. Marty and I, breathless, stood there trying to smile. The dogs warily emerged from hiding, giving us hopeful looks. But then, wouldn’t you know? I couldn’t find the dangling plug-in to put in the wall socket. “It’s got to be down there somewhere!” Marty said. “Yeah, but where? If you see it running off, let me know,” I said. Just then Marty’s husband walked in the door, wondering if we needed help. Oh, boy, did we ever. When he saw our sweaty looks of frustration, he turned on his heels and ran out the door, no doubt thinking, “Beyond help!” After taking the bottom strand off, we found the plug-in. I was sure when I stuck it in the socket, nothing would happen. I could just hear the cruel trickster laughing, “Ha, ha, HA!” But, lo and behold, voila! Lights blazed forth. Prettiest Christmas tree I ever did see. Wheezily, we hooted approval, giving feeble high fives. Even the dogs seemed to smile, tails wagging (time for treats?). The nasty porcupine had been tamed, put in its place, and it was ready – once again – for a Merry Christmas.
Christmas trees – a holiday tradition With December and the holiday season well underway, Christmas trees have already begun to spring up in yards and living rooms around the area. While bringing in festive cheer, they make such a warm, inviting symbol in these cold months. This also made me wonder, how did Christmas trees come about as a tradition? Christmas trees are in wide use across the United States. According to a Nielsen poll, 79 percent of Americans were estimated to have displayed a Christmas tree in their homes in 2013. They make an even larger impact in popular culture. A massive tree is put up in Washington, D.C., every year, and movies and commercials feature them in abundance. But where did such a widespread tradition get its start? The answer goes further back than you might think. There is historical evidence that cultures as far back as the ancient Egyptians, Chinese and Hebrews used evergreen trees as a symbol of eternal life. Houses back in the time of the Roman Empire were decorated with evergreen wreaths during the midwinter festival of Saturnalia. The country of Georgia (not to be confused with the American state) in the Caucasus Mountains of Western Asia continues the ancient tradition of decorating trees. “Chichilaki,” as they are called, are fashioned out of hazelnut and walnut branches, and can range from less than a foot to 10-feet tall. What we would consider modern Christmas trees began emerging in Germany and the Baltic States around the 15th century. They were usually set up in guild halls and decorated with sweets.
Connor Kockler Guest Writer Later on, upper-class families started to set up similar trees in their homes. This trend would begin to spread across Germany in the next few hundred years. North America got its first Christmas tree from German soldiers stationed in Canada during the American Revolution. Several cities claim to have hosted the first Christmas tree in the United States. It would not catch on here until 1850 when an image of the royal couple of the United Kingdom with their Christmas tree was republished in the country. The 1870s are when trees became a regular tradition in the United States. From there, as they say, the rest is history. Christmas trees are now a global phenomenon, along with many other Christmas traditions. They can also be seen in international relations, as several cities and countries gift them to each other in recognition of friendship or sacrifices in war. This hasn’t been without controversy. Some have challenged whether the Christmas display in Washington, D.C., violates the First Amendment of the Constitution. The Supreme Court has ruled that it does not, saying they serve as secular symbols. With the decline in religious affiliation among Americans as a whole, Christmas trees continue
to be prominent. This suggests they are more linked to the holiday than religion particularly. What’s remarkable is just how longstanding the Christmas tree tradition has become. Unlike many of the come-andgo trends of today, the lengthy history only serves to strengthen it. I, for one, have many fond memories of Christmas trees. Setting them up and decorating them is the basis of many family Christmas experiences. Decorating with ornaments that reference life moments make the tree even more special. I would hope Christmas trees can continue far into the future. They provide a great symbol of peace and friendship. The bright colors of the lights and decorations make a good contrast to the ice and snow of winter. They serve as the focal point of family celebrations, with presents around the tree ready to be opened by eager recipients. Bringing people together is what the holidays should be all about. Spending time with our friends and family is what I look forward to this time of year. We can forget our differences, work together as neighbors and share some festive cheer. It’s probably best the holidays come around in one of the coldest and darkest times in the Minnesota seasons; it provides good relief from the weather. I wish everyone a great holiday season this year, no matter how you celebrate. We are all one community, and that’s something we can all get behind. Connor Kockler is a Sauk Rapids-Rice High School student. He enjoys writing, politics and news, among other interests.
Friday, Dec. 9, 2016
Sauk Rapids-Rice Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com
7
Community Calendar
Is your event listed? Send your information to: Newsleader Calendar, P.O. Box 324, St. Joseph, MN 56374; fax it to 320-3634195; or, e-mail it to news@thenewsleaders.com. Friday, Dec. 9 Benton County Historical Society, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 218 First St. N., Sauk Rapids. 320-2539614. mnbentonhistory.org. Saturday, Dec. 10 Winter Market, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Sartell City Hall, 125 Pinecone Road N. marketmonday.org. 55+ Driving Improvement Program (four-hour refresher course), 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Miller Auto Plaza, 2930 Second St. S., St. Cloud. 1-888-234-1294. Central Minnesota Chapter of the Federation of the Blind of Minnesota, 12:30 p.m., American Legion, 17 Second Ave. N., Waite Park. Winter Wonderland, 1-4 p.m., Lake George, St. Cloud. www.stclouddowntown.com. Winter Blast, sponsored by Capital One, 2-5 p.m., 30 Seventh Ave. S., St. Cloud. www.stclouddowntown.com. House and Business Front Lighting Contest, 5-9 p.m., Sauk Rapids. jessi.brinkman@gmail. com. Jedi Tree Lighting, 6-7 p.m., corner of 10th Avenue and W. St. Germain. stcliuddowntown.com. Sunday, Dec. 11 Breakfast, sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m., St. Boniface Church, 501 Main St., Cold Spring. Dashing Through the Snow AU TO M O B I L E S / M OTO RC Y C L E S WANTED MOTORCYCLES: TOP CASH PAID! For Old Motorcycles! 1900-1979. DEAD OR ALIVE! 920-371-0494 (MCN) ALL ZONE FOR SALE Trailer Close-Out SALE! 500 & 990 Gallon FUEL trailers; 12’ 7,000 lb. Scissor lift trailers; 16’ 14,000 lb. Dump trailers; 82”x20’+4’ 14,000# Skidloader trailers; 6x12 v-nose/ramp cargo $2,750.00; 7’x16’ v-nose/ramp $4,199.00. 150 trailers in -stock. www.FortDodgeTrailerWorld.com 515-972-4554 (MCN) VACATION/TRAVEL Tired of the snow? Become a Winter Texan where the sun meets the gulf. Over 100 RV resorts and retirement communities for you to choose from. RV sites, fully furnished rentals and more. For more information visit www.rgvparks. org. (MCN) Tired of cold weather? Escape to Llano Grande Resort in South Texas’ Rio Grande Valley! RV sites, cottages, fully furnished rentals available. Enjoy our golf course, heated swimming pools, full schedule of activities, top-notch entertainment, breathtaking sunsets, and endless fun. Ask about our complimentary 30-day stay. 800-656-2638 www.lanogranderesort.com (MCN) ADOPTION A childless married couple seeks to adopt. Will be hands-on mom & devoted dad. Financial security. Expenses PAID. Call Holly & Tiger. 1-800-790-5260 (ask for Adam) (MCN) PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Call us first. Living expenses,
Softball Tournament, 10 a.m., Whitney Recreation Center, 1527 Northway Drive. 320-650-3051. www.ci.stcloud.mn.us. Christmas Celebration Concert, 5 p.m., Northland Bible Baptist Church, 3686 CR 8 S.E., St. Cloud.
Monday, Dec. 12 Benton County Historical Society, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. MondayFriday, 218 First St. N., Sauk Rapids. 320-253-9614. mnbentonhistory.org. Fare for All, 3:30-5:30 p.m., Resurrection Lutheran Church, 610 CR 2, St. Joseph. 1-800-5824291. fareforall.org. Sauk Rapids City Council, 6 p.m., council chambers, Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Ave. N. 320-258-5300. ci.sauk-rapids.mn.us. Rice City Council, 7 p.m., council chambers, Rice City Hall, 205 Main St. E. 320-393-2280. Sauk Rapids Sportsmen’s Club, 8 p.m., Molitor’s Quarry Grill and Bar, 425 35th St. N.E., Sauk Rapids.
ton Drive, Sauk Rapids. saukrapidswt@mnwt.org. Holistic Moms Network, 7-8:30 p.m., Good Earth Co-op, 2010 Veterans Drive, St. Cloud. 320-252-2489. The Art and Life of George Morrison, presented by the Minnesota Historical Society, 7-8:30 p.m., Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site, 1620 Lindbergh Drive, Little Falls. 320-616-5421. Wednesday, Dec. 14 St. Joseph Area Chamber of Commerce, 11:30 a.m., St. Joseph Community Fire Hall, 323 Fourth Ave. NE. stjosephchamber. com. Sauk Rapids Recreation Board, 6 p.m., Public Works Building, 360 Summit Ave. N, Sauk Rapids. 320-258-5300. ci. sauk-rapids.mn.us. Thursday, Dec. 15 55+ Driving Improvement Program (eight-hour first-time course), 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Life
Tuesday, Dec. 13 Sartell Chamber of Commerce, 11:30 a.m., Waters Church, 1227 Pinecone Road. 320-258.6061. info@sartellchamber.com. Central Minnesota Market, 3-5:30 p.m., VA Hospital, 4801 Veterans Drive, St. Cloud. 320251-2498. Sauk Rapids Lions Club, 6:30 p.m., VFW, 901 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids. e-clubhouse. org/sites/saukrapidslionsmn. Sauk Rapids Women of Today, 7 p.m., VFW, 901 N. Benhousing, medical, and continued support afterwards. Choose adoptive family of your choice. Call 24/7. 855-390-6047 (Void in IL & IN) (MCN) Birthmothers, Planning an Adoption? Unique Adoptions can help. We have an excellent Adoption program. Choose from open or closed, select adoptive family. Financial Assistance. Ask about 4-day recovery packages. Call 24/7 to speak to an adoption specialist. 1-888-637-8200 (Void in IL) (MCN) EMPLOYMENT/HELP WANTED CLASS-A CDL Regional Driver. Good home time. Great pay and benefits. Matching 401k. Bonus’s and tax free money. No touch freight. Experience needed. Call Scott 507-460-9011. Apply on-line WWW.MCFGTL.COM (MCN) PAID IN ADVANCE! MAKE $1000 Weekly!! Mailing Brochures From Home. Helping home workers since 2001. No Experience Required. Start Immediately! www.centralmailing.net (VOID IN SD, WI) (MCN) MAKE $1,000 WEEKLY! Paid in advance! Mailing Brochures at Home! Easy pleasant work. Begin Immediately! Age unimportant! www.homemoney77.com (MCN) FINANCIAL STUDENT LOAN PAYMENTS got you down? We can help reduce payments and get finances under control, call: 866-8711626 (MCN) Are you in BIG trouble with the IRS? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-606-6673 (MCN)
Assembly of God, 2409 Clearwater Road, St. Cloud. 1-888-2341294. Coffee and Conversation, a senior discussion group, 9 a.m., Country Manor, 520 First St. NE, Sartell. ACT on Alzheimer’s presents. Benton County Historical Society, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday, 218 First St. N., Sauk Rapids. 320-253-9614. mnbentonhistory. org. 55+ Driving Improvement Program (four-hour refresher course), noon-4 p.m., Salem Lutheran Church, 90 Riverside Drive S.E., St. Cloud. 1-888-234-1294. 55+ Driving Improvement Program (four-hour refresher course), 5-9 p.m., Sartell-St. Stephen District Services Center, 212 Third Ave. N., Sartell. Rice Lions Club, 8 p.m., Lions Building, Westside Park, 101 Fourth St. NW. Friday, Dec. 16 Benton County Historical So-
ciety, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 218 First St. N., Sauk Rapids. 320-253-9614. mnbentonhistory.org. St. Joseph Winter Farmers’ Market, 3-6 p.m., 27 W Minnesota St., St. Joseph. www.stjosephfarmersmarket.com. St. Cloud Singles Club Dance, 8 p.m.-midnight, American Legion, 17 Second Ave. S., Waite Park. 320-339-4533. stcloudsingles.net. Saturday, Dec. 17 Sartell Winter Farmers’ Market, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Sartell City Hall, 125 Pinecone Road N, Sartell. www.marketmonday.org. Community Meal, 11:30 a.m.12:45 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 1107 Pinecone Road S., Sartell. Sunday, Dec. 18 B u i l d - y o u r- o w n - o m e l e t t e Breakfast, sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, 8 a.m.-noon, 17 Second Ave. N., Waite Park. 320-251-5498.
Whistler is a 2-year-old, neutered Coonhound mix that knows how to carry a tune, and by tune we mean that textbook Coonhound bay. He’ll often howl in excitement when he sees his favorite people. He likes to go for runs on a leash, but we advise you to steer clear of trees because he’ll climb them and expect you to be proud of him. Whistler has done well with other dogs his size in the past but will chase anything smaller than him. He’s housetrained, cratetrained and has done great with older children. Add a little music to your life by adopting Whistler today!
“Helping one animal won’t change the world … but it will change the world for that one animal!” Dogs - 11 Puppies - 5
Cats - 34 Rabbit - 1
Kittens - 29
Tri-County Humane Society 735 8th St. NE • PO Box 701 St. Cloud, MN 56302
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www.tricountyhumanesociety.org
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Sauk Rapids-Rice Newsleader • www.thenewsleaders.com
8
Friday, Dec. 9, 2016
Red Cross urges those who can to give blood
Scheduling time with Santa
It can’t be wrapped or placed under a tree, but the perfect gift can help save patient lives this holiday season. The American Red Cross urges eligible donors to give the lifesaving gift of a blood donation in December, a time when donations decline but the needs of patients remain steady. Barbara Coger will never forget the donors that gave the blood her husband received during the holidays. “I have been donating blood for some time, but really started encouraging others to do so after my husband received a donation on Christmas Eve,” she said. “He had not been doing well and would not survive much longer, but with that extra boost, he was able to share a big smile with me on Christmas
morning, something I will always cherish.” Donors of all blood types are needed this holiday season to help ensure a sufficient supply for hospital patients. To encourage donations, all those who come to donate Thursday, Dec. 22 through Sunday, Jan. 8 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors are encouraged to make appointments and complete the RapidPass online health history questionnaire at redcrossblood.org/rapidpass to save time when donating.
St. Cloud Tech College to host express enrollment St. Cloud Technical & Community College will host Express Enrollment from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9 allowing applicants to walk in, apply to SCTCC and enroll in one day. Those interested are encouraged to drop in any time during the event. During Express Enrollment, applicants will apply to SCTCC, take the Accuplacer test, meet with an academic advisor and register for classes. Financial aid advisors will also be available. Applicants are encouraged to file their Free Ap-
photo by Dennis Dalman
The Benoit children of Sauk Rapids have a happy time with Mr. and Mrs. Claus Dec. 3 at the Sauk Rapids VFW club. From left to right are Lauriah, who wants a doll, Lauriana, who wants just a jar or two of baby food; and Laurial, who’s hoping for an art-supply set. The children’s parents are Lauren and Ryan Benoit of Sauk Rapids. A very long line of parents and children waited for their chance to meet Santa and his wife. The Santa session was one of many Christmas-themed activities in Sauk Rapids on Dec. 3.
Deposit from page 5 ers still prefer paper checks, but in order to allay some fears, asked the city provide a written statement assuring they would be covered in the event information was compromised. In the end, council member Voigt said he would consult with the city attorney and he would bring a resolution to the next meeting addressing the issue of mandating direct deposit use and the option of issuing paper checks. With
that, the issue was laid upon the table to be addressed at the next meeting. The council approved a resolution giving Police Chief Ross Hamann authority to sign an agreement with the State of Minnesota dealing with the 1033 program, which loans equipment to police departments for their use. Currently the Rice department has a few rifles and handguns on loan. During the Truth in Taxation portion of the meeting, Ken Nodo asked the council whether they had set aside and budgeted to pay for the park plan. Mayor Rogholt said the city has only re-
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quested proposals to consider, so there was no obligation. It was Nodo’s contention with the request for proposals the city was obligated to have the money available. After Nodo’s comment, Rogholt suspended the Truth in Taxation hearing and later closed it completely at 7:40 p.m. The council approved the following consent agenda items with no discussion: • Approval of council minutes for Nov. 21, 2016. • Approval of council special meeting minutes for Nov. 28, 2016. • Approval of planning commission meeting minutes
for Oct. 24, 2016. • Approval of finance board meeting minutes for Oct. 17, 2016. • Approval of police department report for October 2016. • Approval of building permit summary for November 2016. • Approval of Rice clubs’ liquor-license renewal. • Approval of The Corner Pocket liquor-license renewal. In the reports portion of the meeting, the council heard from Rice City Clerk Stephanie Fischer that the planning commission wanted the council to direct enforcement of a zoning ordinance requiring operation
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of a business at 137769 25th Ave. to discontinue. The council directed a letter be sent with that order. In another action, council clarified the need for escrow money to be placed with the city to ensure completion of landscape work on the Schulte property. City ordinance forbids the planting of grass or trees between Oct. 1 and May 1, so work has had to stop. Council member Kampa expressed her disappointment with regard to finding and keeping a recreation director and will explore ways to attract and keep same.
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plication for Student Aid as soon as possible using the SCTCC school code 005534. In addition, there will be assistance available at Express Enrollment for those who need help filling out the FAFSA. If applicants have any previous college credit at a non-Minnesota State institution (formerly MnSCU), they are encouraged to bring a copy of the transcript for review. Express Enrollment is a great way to accomplish at once everything needed for a spring semester start at SCTCC.
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