Sauk Rapids Herald - December 29 edition

PRSRT STD ECR U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #861

“Minnesota’s Oldest Weekly Newspaper” Vol. 162, No. 37

A year in

11 2nd Ave. N., Unit 103, Sauk Rapids, Benton County, MN 56379

Governor’s Fishing Opener preparations begin

2016 was a time of change in Sauk Rapids

December 29, 2016

w e i v e r

by NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

PHOTO BY ANNA SALDANA

Gordy Vierkant, a member of the Sauk Rapids Sportmen’s Club, headed up the Mississippi River dredging, which took place Dec. 20 at Wilson Park in St. Cloud. During the process, Burski Excavating removed 800 cubic yards of muck from the two accesses.

by ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER

ST. CLOUD – Preparations for the 2017 Governor’s Fishing Opener have begun.

The 70th annual event will take place in St. Cloud May 11-14. In preparation, the public boat accesses at Wilson Park were dredged Dec. 20 by Burski Excavating. The event was organized by Gordy Vierkant, a member of the Sauk Rapids Sportsmen’s Club.

“The bay, which is the river access, silts in with muck, so the water is about two feet deep and the rest is this muck,” Vierkant said. “When you’re coming in with your boat, you’re sucking the muck into your motor. Some boats bottom out. This dredging will really help to get boats in and out of this access.”

Sportsmen’s club members have had issues themselves at the access, which prompted them to head up the dredging process.

“This is one of the locations for our Àshing league,” Vierkant said. “We are very fa-

miliar with getting in and out of here.”

The dredging process, which involves removing 400 cubic yards from each of the accesses, was completed in one day due to the permits awarded for the project.

“This will really help boats come in a trough, which extends from the access to the end of the dock, a larger area for boats to stage loading and unloading and not have to sit in the mud when they wait for other boats,” Vierkant said.

“They’ll actually be in the water.”

In addition to the dredging, Vierkant is also on the planning board for the Àshing opener.

“A bunch of the club members will be hosts as well,” Vierkant said. “We need about 110 boats to do the opener and right now we have 11, so the process has just begun.”

This will be the Àrst time the Governor’s Fishing Opener is hosted over a tri-city area. Events will take place in Sartell, Sauk Rapids and St. Cloud.

SAUK RAPIDS — If you sat down without a crystal ball, it might be hard to predict what will happen within Sauk Rapids city limits over the next year. But there will be change. The 2016 year proved this.

Road construction on the “3 Up the Hill” project had not yet begun 365 days ago, and you could still grab a meal at Perkins in the Pines.

A brew-pub and gluten-free bakery were still only dreams.

Last week, the Sauk Rapids Herald sat down with Sauk Rapids Community Development Director Todd Schultz to recap, in no particular order, the most impactful changes of the past year and to shed some light on what is to come for the city in 2017.

Second Street North “That’s been a project the city has been waiting and planning for, for a decade. When the bridge project started in 2005 it was an obvious next project. In fact, there were a lot of people who thought it should have been done at the same time, but it just couldn’t happen politically and Ànancially,” Schultz said.

The county project which removed roughly 20 properties, widened the street to four trafÀc lanes and connected residential and industrial properties to the commercial downtown through trail and sidewalk. It was preliminarily Ànished in November and Ànal completion of the project

PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER

Sauk Rapids Community Development Director Todd Schultz is responsible for planning and organizing the implementation of development projects within the city.

will include a wear-course bituminous layer, road striping and landscaping. The project with culminate spring 2017.

Eighth Street North was simultaneously reconstructed

in 2016 causing some detour headaches for visitors and residents. This upcoming spring, the city will begin construction on a portion of Second Avenue South and its adjacent

streets, replacing sewer and storm water infrastructure, repairing road surfaces and streetscaping to coincide with the established downtown aesthetic.

Elimination of blight The city removed some eyesores in its downtown district in 2016. The Housing and Redevelopment Authority purchased and demolished a house behind the Dairy Queen on North Benton Drive, as well as the former Sauk Rapids Locker Plant and potato warehouse.

“We acquired kind of the Windows were installed Dec. 22 to a building that is under worst properties in the downconstruction on the corner of Second Avenue North and Sec- town and are eliminating ond Street North in downtown Sauk Rapids. A lease has not those blights,” Schultz said. yet been signed for the building.

“And there’s not a lot left. We pretty much have the worst of the worst out of the downtown now.”

Schultz said ridding the city of the locker and warehouse were a huge deal as the buildings were not contributing much to the city in terms of taxes and were situated on an important corner in the downtown area. The city continues to market that property for development and had pur(Above) Construction began early November on a 57-unit Year review apartment building next to the Sauk Rapids Bridge. (Below) continued on pg. 2 The apartments will be situated in downtown Sauk Rapids overlooking the river.

Rice Lions deliver holiday tradition

Prince of Peace students perform pageant

by NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

Rice Lions Club members – (front, from left) Scott Heilig, Wayne Larson, Steve Wollak; (back, from left) Steve Janski, Scott Beierman, Phillip Nelson and Chuck Popp – handed out bags of candy and apples to the children at Rice Elementary Dec. 22. Not pictured is Gerry Maleska.

by NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

RICE — Students at Rice Elementary were greeted by a familiar face Dec. 23 — Santa Claus.

Members of the Rice Lions Club - Scott Beierman, Scott Heilig, Steve Janski, Wayne Larson, Gerry Maleska, Chuck Popp, Steve Wollak and Phillip Nelson, who played Santa Claus- handed out bags of candy and apples to each student before winter break. The 32-member organization has been doing so each Christmas season for over 30 years.

“When I was president of the Lions club, they asked

what we could do for a project to get our name out. I brought this up and everyone thought it was a great idea,” Janski said.

Janski remembered the American Legion delivering candy while he was in grade school, so the club decided to replicate the gesture.

They began their deliveries in 1980. This year the Rice Lions visited the school a week earlier in order to include the preschool programs in their service project as well. They assembled a total of 550 bags of nutfree treats and distributed

Rice Lions continued on pg. 3

ST. CLOUD—The students of Prince of Peace Lutheran School packed the house Dec. 20, as they performed “A Play in a Manger” at Love of Christ Lutheran Church. The evening began with “Sounds of the Season,” a music recital, where almost 40 second through eighth grade children performed pieces on piano, guitar, horn and woodwind instruments.

Choir director Ruth Immerfall directed the concert this year.

Set in the town of Centerton, “A Play in a Manger,” created by Steve Moore, Rob Howard and David Guthrie, is a musical about a group of townspeople coming together for their annual Christmas extravaganza. But this year, with help from legendary director Cecil V. DeVille played by eight grader Sarah Nerud, of Fairview, the show would be bigger and better than ever.

Throughout the play, DeVille added more and more over-the-top activity to the traditional Bible Christmas

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

“A Play in the Manger” production crew cast members, Elijah Grabinski (left), of Sauk Rapids, and Aaron Neumann, of St. Cloud, listen while Abby Dare, of St. Cloud, explains the addition of skydiving singing angels to Centerton production.

story. She called for dancing camels, skydiving angels, pyrotechnics and more. Although being urged by her stage-hands Jerry, played

by Elijah Grabinski of Sauk Rapids, and Ben, Aaron Neumann of St. Cloud, to settle for the simple signiÀcance and impactful story of the

Bible; DeVille failed to hear their message until explosion foiled her plans. Realizing the heart of the story, DeVille altered her plans, reverted to the town’s original production of the birth of Jesus Christ and delivered the extravaganza successfully.

Throughout the play, the

entire student body joined its acting students in music and dancing to songs such as “Bigger is Better,” “Glory in the Highest, Peace on Earth,” until ending the production with a an “Away in the Manger Medley” complete with readings from the Good Book.

PAGE 2

Tuesday, Dec. 13 0606 hrs – welfare check on 3rd Ave S 0838 hrs – records check 1042 hrs – Àre on the 1000 block of Industrial Dr S 1221 hrs – fraud on the 2700 block of Ocarnia Ct 1312 hrs – harassment on the 3100 block of Orchard Ave NE 1443 hrs – harassment on the 1200 block of Fieldstone Dr 1502 hrs – civil on the 700 block of 8th St N 1623 hrs – property on the 1000 block of 10th Ave NE 1702 hrs – child on the 1000 block of 6th Ave N 1707 hrs – harassment on the 800 block of Benton Dr N 2158 hrs – robbery on Benton Dr S 2 trafÀc stops; 3 parking violations; 1 alarm; 3 medical calls; 1 assist; 5 permits issued; 4 human services reports; 1 ordinance violation Wednesday, Dec. 14 0019 hrs – criminal damage to property 100 block 15th St Ct 0935 hrs – school bus stop arm violation 0940 hrs – school bus stop arm violation 1214 hrs – trafÀc accident on the 800 block of Benton Dr N 1444 hrs – theft on the 300 block of 13th St N 2138 hrs – suspicious activity on the 100 block of 2nd Ave N 1 trafÀc stop; 4 assists; 1 parking violation; 2 alarms; 3 medical calls Thursday, Dec. 15 0104 hrs – domestic on the 300 block of 4th St S 1419 hrs – theft on the 100 block of 1st St S 1526 hrs – welfare check on the 100 block of 3rd Ave S 1622 hrs – missing person on the 1900 block of 4th Ave N 1939 hrs – predatory offender registry 2003 hrs – welfare check on the 1200 block of 15th St NE 2023 hrs – meeting 2130 hrs – burglary on the 400 block of Nanda Knoll 3 trafÀc stops; 3 assists; 1 parking violation; 1 alarm; 19 compliance checks

LOCAL NEWS

Year review continued from front_______________ chased additional properties on Third Avenue North for future redevelopment as well.

Multifamily housing Construction on a 57-unit downtown apartment building began in 2016. The building will be situated on the corner of Second Street North and North Benton Drive.

“The reason we supported and really pursued this project as long as we did, wasn’t for the taxes the project would generate,” Schultz said. “But more to bring people to the downtown to help support the other investment we made.

The more people you have in and around downtown, the more desirable it is going to be and the more it is going to support other businesses already there.”

The housing industry in Sauk Rapids continues to recover. In addition to the downtown apartments, multifamily construction has been underway east of Highway 10. Torborg Builders opened three-story townhomes at WildÁower Terrace, Stone Creek Estates has a second building opening in 2017 and a building is under construction at Villages of Creekside.

Sauk Rapids also added nearly 50 new single-family homes in 2016 and that market is making a steady return.

PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER

(Above) Crews pump concrete walls June 22 at the Kwik Trip location near Highway 15. The store opened in early October.

(Left) Manea’s Meats is undergoing a 9,600-square-foot expansion. The additional production facilities are planned to be ready mid-January.

The director also commented that Gypsy Lea’s, although only open one weekend a month, attracted many people to the downtown area.

Despite the closings, Schultz foresees the convenience store reopening along with other developments on the same corner.

“That will be one to watch this coming year, to see what happens on that corner,” Schultz said.

comed The Briar House, Lyle’s Barber Shop, Mixin’ It Up, Kwik Trip, Godzala Brenny Realty and more. Refresh Nutrition, which underwent an owner change, opened and closed, but will reopen as Active Nutrition next week.

Some businesses also left.

Gypsy Lea’s, Super America east of Highway 10 and Perkins all shut their doors.

“Perkins is a big deal to us. There are a lot of people who really liked having Perkins here. They are still looking for a location in Sauk Rapids. But it has to be the right location for them to build again. I know there is a local developer still working with them to try and Ànd a spot,” Schultz said.

Additions and expansions Urban Lodge Brewery & Restaurant’s opening and Manea’s Meats 9,600 square-feet expansion were both noteworthy to Schultz.

“Manea’s doubled their size and should be opening shortly,” he said. “And in Friday, Dec. 16 terms of Urban Lodge, the 0315 hrs – harassment on the 300 block of Benton Dr N 0447 hrs – suspicious activity on the 1500 block of Park View more you can bring hospitality-type things to an area, Lane NE the more it will attract other 0524 hrs – hit and run on Hwy 15 and 18th St N hospitality things. It’s a real0731 hrs – theft on the 1500 block of Park View Lane NE ly cool addition to our down1007 hrs – animal on the 800 block of Broadway Ave N town.”

1144 hrs – domestic on the 600 block of 2nd Ave S Sauk Rapids also wel1226 hrs – civil on the 1100 block of Franklin Ave NE 1346 hrs – property on the 100 block of 15th St Ct 1416 hrs – suspicious activity on the 100 block of Division St 1420 hrs – assault on the 1800 block of Osauka Rd NE 1426 hrs – domestic on the 600 block of 2nd Ave S STEARNS COUNTY — hicle while in the right lane.

1442 hrs – theft on the 1500 block of Park View Lane NE A Rice woman was injured She, then, moved into the left 1553 hrs – child after a vehicle rear-ended her lane and struck from behind a 2045 hrs – domestic on the 400 block of 13th Ave S Dec. 22.

DOT plow driven by 38-year2300 hrs – vehicle According to a release old Amy Staudinger, of Rice.

2357 hrs – hit and run on 1st St N and Benton Dr N from the Minnesota State Consequently, a third vehicle 1 trafÀc stop; 8 parking violations; 3 assists; 1 medical call Patrol, 55-year old Paris Ste- driven by Jack Berry, 33, of phens, of St. Cloud was travel- Cushing, struck Stephen’s car.

Saturday, Dec. 17 ing west on Interstate 94 near Staudinger and Stephens 0124 hrs – warrant on the 100 block of 1st St S mile marker 175 shortly after suffered non-life-threatening 0250 hrs – disturbance on the 900 block of Benton Dr N 11:30 a.m. when she passed injuries. Berry’s condition 0851 hrs – vehicle a Minnesota Department of was not documented.

1008 hrs – accident on 13th St Cir and 2nd Ave N Transportation warning ve1229 hrs – trafÀc hazard on the 1000 block of River Ave S’ 1449 hrs – theft on the 1200 block of 15th St NE 1945 hrs – child on the 100 block of 18th St NW 2139 hrs – burglary on the 1900 block of Benton Dr N Lorentz receives scholarship 2246 hrs – civil on the 200 block of 18th St N MORRIS — University of Minnesota-Morris student 8 trafÀc stops; 4 assists; 4 medical calls; 7 parking violations Brooke Lorentz, of Sauk Rapids, is the recipient of the Morris Scholarship Endowment - Promise of Tomorrow for the 2016-17 Sunday, Dec. 18 academic year. The Morris Scholarship Endowment-Promise 0040 hrs – disturbance on the 1900 block of Benton Dr N of Tomorrow Scholarship supports full-time students who 0148 hrs – suspicious activity on the 300 block of 7th St S demonstrate talent, motivation, academic success and promise.

1638 hrs – harassment on the 1200 block of 15th St NE 1840 hrs – child on the 800 block of 5th Ave N 2014 hrs – disturbance on the 1300 block of 13th St Cir We cover your dreams . . .

2128 hrs – theft on Benton Dr N 2151 hrs – criminal damage to property on the 900 block of Check out our farm 2nd Ave N insurance programs!

2207 hrs – property on the 1500 block of Park View Lane 10 trafÀc stops; 1 medical call; 1 ordinance violation

A look ahead With the New Year only days away, 2017 is already looking to be an eventful year.

The Sauk Rapids-Rice School District conducted facility studies and recommendations over the past year and continues conversations regarding an additional elementary school, renovations, athletic Àelds and more. With a potential $50 million price tag, the district will need to decide if they plan on putting a referendum to vote.

Discussion of a community Àeldhouse will continue in the coming year. A Àeldhouse could cost upwards of $10 million, but would not be feasible without cooperation between the district and city.

“Looking at the Àeldhouse from a development point of view, it’s just another thing you can sell to people who are thinking about moving to this area. It’s a great place to do different events,” Schultz said.”

The city will also be renovating the old log building at Sauk Rapids Municipal Park.

According to Schultz, the roof will be replaced, bathrooms will be added, an open-air roofed area will be constructed near the playground equipment and the inside of the building will be renovated.

The Àreplace is planned to be deconstructed and the plaque inside will most likely be embedded in the Áoor.

Rice woman injured in interstate accident

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Thursday, Dec. 15 1304 hrs – records check 1456 hrs – theft on the 12500 block of Fromlet Loop NW 2 trafÀc stops; 1 assist Friday, Dec. 16 0856 hrs – vehicle 1101 hrs – checks on Division St N 5 trafÀc stops; 3 alarms; 2 assists Saturday, Dec. 17 0027 hrs – suspicious activity on the 400 block of Main St E 2159 hrs – vehicle 2330 hrs – warrant on Hwy 10 4 trafÀc stops

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Wednesday, Dec. 14 1439 hrs – fraud on the 100 block of 5th St NE 1509 hrs – fraud on the 100 block of 5th St NE 1 assist

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Tuesday, Dec. 13 0332 hrs – terroristic threats on the 200 block of 1st St NW 0336 hrs – suspicious activity on the 400 block of Main St E 0807 hrs – train 1239 hrs – property on the 200 block of Main St E 1807 hrs – theft on the 400 block of Main St E 2127 hrs – drunk 1 trafÀc stop; 1 medical call; 1 assist

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Monday, Dec. 12 1020 hrs – fraud on the 2200 block of 125th St NW 1027 hrs – accident 1242 hrs – property on the 200 block of Main St 2 records checks

The building, which was erected in the 1940s, was in need of general maintenance and the hope is provide additional community space.

“Since we built the other building in the park, we’ve been able to see how much of a need there is for space like that in the community,” Schultz said. “Public works is the place we take reservations. When they open Jan. 2, there will be people standing in line to make reservations in the newer log building.

It’s booked all summer long, every weekend, and it won’t take but a few weeks before the thing will be completely booked for the year. There is obviously a huge need for something like that. We’re thinking by making an investment in that building, we will be able to provide a service to the community.

The year 2017 is sure to be an eventful one.

“I think every year there are going to be some new things,” Schultz said. “The investment we made in the downtown 10-plus years ago is just so cool. In my mind I always picture it as a big giant snowball at the top of the hill.

All we did was took a stick, pried underneath and started that ball rolling. And it hasn’t quit. Even when the economy was at its worst [point], there was still one or two things that would happen in the downtown every year that kept the momentum going. It just keeps going. There’s a momentum there that continues to grow. Fifteen years ago the private sector didn’t want to be in our downtown, but they want to be there now. Fifteen years ago when people wanted to get something to eat or drink they didn’t really think about our downtown so much.

They are now more than ever before. I think we’ll continue to see stuff happen.”

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Hours: Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Saturday: By Appointment 225 North Benton Drive - Suite 105 Sauk Rapids, Minnesota 56379 Call for a free consultation.

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Monday, Dec. 12 1142 hrs – harassment on the 1500 block of Peach Dr NE 1257 hrs – checks on the 1800 block of Osauka Rd NE 1337 hrs – death on the 1200 block of 4th Ave N 1532 hrs – vehicle 1837 hrs – child on the 900 block of 1st St S 2023 hrs – hit and run on 6th Ave N and 15th St N 2036 hrs – harassment on the 400 block of Summit Ave S 2114 hrs – Àre on the 1100 block of 11th St N 2140 hrs – accident on Fieldstone Dr and 15th St NE 2 trafÀc stops; 2 assists; 1 parking violation; 1 ordinance violation; 1 medical call

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2016

R52-2B-TV

Sauk Rapids Police Department activity

Sauk Rapids Police Department activity

The Sauk Rapids Herald

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2016

LOCAL NEWS

The Sauk Rapids Herald

Reker Construction Company awarded PHOTO SUBMITTED

Watab Township Supervisors Craig Gondeck (left) and Lloyd Erdmann presented Marty Reker (center), of Reker Construction Company, with the Àrst “Award of Excellence for Best Management in Storm Water Pollution Prevention” at the township meeting Dec. 6.

The award was given to recognize Reker Construction’s dedication to prevention of storm water pollution in projects throughout the township. It is planned to distribute the award bi-annually as part of the public outreach and education component to the permit issued by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

Santa Clause Phillip Nelson greeted Àfth grade teacher Kelsey Bean in the hallway at the school Dec. 22.

today are showing no signs of losing the Christmas spirit and belief in Santa Claus.

“The kids’ expressions.

Mainly the kindergarten and

Bill Lovitz

Àrst graders are what I enjoy the most,” Wollak said. “I think they get more excited than they used to.”

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What’s Happening

Saturday, Dec. 31, 8:30 p.m. — Celebrate New Year’s Eve. Free music from Saintrio and free snacks as the ball drops.

Sauk Rapids VFW Post No. 6992, 901 Benton Drive N, Sauk Rapids.

Sunday, Jan. 1, 10 a.m. — New Years’ Burning Bowl Celebration. As part of Sunday service, participants will let go of the old, to make room for the new, through a “burning bowl ritual. Unity Spiritual Center, 931 Fifth Ave. N, Sartell. Details call (320) 255-9523 or visit http://www. unityspiritualcentercm.org.

Monday, Jan. 2, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Active Nutrition Grand Opening, 102 Second Ave. N, Sauk Rapids.

Tuesday, Jan. 3, 6:30-8 p.m. — Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support. Support for the caregivers of those suffering memory loss meet the Àrst Tuesday of each month.

Whitney Senior Center, 1527 Northway Drive, St. Cloud.

Thursday, Jan. 5, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. — American Red Cross Blood Drive. A free t-shirt will be given to all donors.

Northland Bible Baptist Church, 3686 County Road 8 SE, St. Cloud. Call (320) 252-5677 or visit http://www. redcrossblood.org.

Sunday, Jan. 8 — Holdingford Sno-Áyers 14th Annual Vintage Run. Registration beginning at 8 a.m., trail ride at 11 a.m., activities at noon, awards at 3 p.m. Fun for all ages.

Clubhouses to stay warm. Food, beverages, door prizes. SnoÁyers Clubhouse, 18508 400th St., Avon.

2016

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Football Contest Week 16 winner: JoAnn Ganz of Rice

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Saturday, Dec. 31, 9 p.m. — New Year’s Eve Masquerade Party. O’Brien’s Pub, 10 E Main St., Rice.

Mid-States Supply, Inc.

Other Sources: Proceeds from Bond Sales Transfers from Other Funds/Other Financing Sources Total Revenues and Other Sources Expenditures: General Government Public Safety Highway and Streets Human Services Health Culture and Recreation Conservation of Natural Resources Economic Development Debt Service Capital Projects Library Historical Society Agricultural Society Soil and Water Conservation District Other Uses: Transfers to Other Funds/Other Financing Uses Total Expenditures

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BENTON COUNTY SUMMARY BUDGET STATEMENT

2016 Budget

Thank you Thank you to all my friends and family for the cards, gifts and happy birthday wishes!

It was wonderful to celebrate with all of you.

Bill Lovitz

ATTENTION!

PUBLIC NOTICE

Budgeted Governmental Funds Revenues: Current Property Tax Levy County Program Aid All Other Taxes Licenses and Permits Intergovernmental - Federal & State Fees for Services Fines and Forfeits Interest on Investments Miscellaneous

Cards of Thanks____________

Farmers, Contractors, Laborers & Retailers!

PUBLIC NOTICES The following is a summary of the operating budget for the 2017 fiscal year for Benton County. This summary is published in accordance with Minnesota Statute §375.169. The detail of the County budget is on file in the County Administrator's Office at the Benton County Government Center, 531 Dewey Street, Foley, Minnesota, and may be reviewed during normal business hours. Summary and detailed budget information can also be viewed on the Benton County website (www.co.benton.mn.us; see "Budget" under the "About Benton" link on the homepage.)

Rice Lions continued from front______ them to preschool through Àfth grade students, as well as the occasional teacher and staff member. Some of the members have been delivering candy with the group from the beginning and have even delivered to students who have grown and joined the organization as adults.

Nelson has been playing the role of Santa for a handful of years and thinks everyone should try it.

“The enjoyment of little kids and watching their eyes just grabs right at your heart,” he said.

The group told stories of how kids’ jaws drop and those too shy to smile will eventually crack one if asked by the jolly fellow.

Wollak agreed that the children’s faces are his favorite part and said students

PAGE 3

2017 Budget

$18,987,493 2,254,228 284,200 223,300 17,806,573 2,409,735 10,825 70,000 533,940

$19,330,998 2,265,782 292,700 249,760 13,893,730 2,236,742 10,125 70,000 603,610

0 2,522,034 $45,102,328

0 3,815,227 $42,768,674

$6,432,696 7,612,563 13,217,591 11,337,262 1,124,679 46,535 237,387 77,767 2,412,389 407,300 544,883 12,070 10,000 170,000

$6,815,322 7,949,773 9,647,733 11,742,910 1,128,049 48,035 247,090 75,125 1,781,213 367,656 547,351 12,070 0 195,000

1,459,206 $45,102,328

2,211,347 $42,768,674

PAGE 4

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2016

The Sauk Rapids Herald

OPINION

Trust in His timing

simple quick prayer, I prayed long and hard.

After interviewing hundreds of people over the Normally, I like to leave the columns of prayer last 365 days, sometimes my life can seem rather and belief to Mercy in Life by Faith. But some mundane. I’m like most. I wake up, put my jeans things are undeniable. My use of prayer in life on one leg at a time, work hard, smile often, ocdecisions is one. Growing up Catholic, it wasn’t casionally have some fun, tuck my son in with a without prayer that I came to my decision to move kiss, say a prayer, sleep and do it all over again on with my life when I was unhappy. And when I the next day. So Ànding inspiration for my columns can sometime be a burden.

by NATASHA BARBER made the choice to leave a job where I was comfortable and safe, I turned to prayer again.

“If you were to interview me for a story, what I knew there had to be a reason He brought would you want to know,” I asked my boyfriend the opportunity to me in His plan. And I needed Monday night. “I’d want to know how you could leave a job you had been rooted in for 15 years,” he said. “I’d to know whether to act or ignore. So I watched for signs and want to know how you could go out on a limb and make a listened carefully. I cried and begged to be steered in the right direction. When the calm came over me, I had found my ancomplete life-change.”

Normally, I might have to think a while to answer such a swer. He would not let me fail and if things didn’t work out probing question. But this wasn’t the case. So without a reply, with the change, I would gain something and be OK. After all, I stood up and walked away. I had my answer, and here it is. this was His plan not mine.

A year ago, I had the opportunity to meet a friend with Prayer.

When the opportunity came for me to leave a good job as a the words, “Let your faith be bigger than your fear” hanging full-time manager at Coborn’s, I had a lot to think about. I was on her ofÀce wall. In friendship, I’m sharing the same words a newly-divorced, single mother. My son’s and my insurance, with you for 2017. When in doubt, give your worries to God. our home and lifestyle all depended on making this work. It Say a prayer. And trust in His timing. was a huge risk. I didn’t know whether to trust something too good to be true. So before deciding, I prayed. And not just a

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those tight pants bringing any form of self loathBlank, hallow and stagnant thoughts. That is ing, let it be a reminder of God’s provision. Maybe how I found myself waking up today. What sparks inspiration? What sparks motivation? Many things, we’ve been a little gluttonous and that has been the for different reasons. Maybe it’s too tight of pants reason for our expanding waistlines but thanking that motivate us to lose weight. Maybe piles of stuff Jesus for provision is going to be your best Àrst stacking up around the house inspire us to declutter. step. Then thank Him for working hands and limbs Maybe it’s another chance at life after a near death and the ability to exercise. Then thank Him for inexperience that push us towards greatness. They all formation on the importance of organic whole food. make you want to do something about your current Thank Him for the unlimited resources today used situation but at the bare bones of them, I tell you to guide you to controlling blood sugars and then they are lacking entirely in substance.

by Mercy Nygaard take the step to live it out.

I dug through my cabinet to Ànd old noteDo you see how you can take what seems like books, hoping to Ànd anything that would point me Life by Faith the smallest things and turn them into praise? Watch towards inspiring others. I found my old worship how God will honor that and your countenance will journal...at the bottom of a stack of books and covered in dust. transform. You will start to see that you are on the greatest I wiped it off and opened its pages. One page after the next I adventure you could have ever imagined. It will give you infound praise and worship and thankful sentiments to our Lord spiration and it will give your endeavors substance. and provider. After all, it is the only requirement of the jourOthers will see it as you live more boldly, like Olympian nal, to let every word be Àlled with praise. It’s a challenge that gymnast Gabby Douglas. I’ll never forget in her interview afbrings great reward. I found answered prayers and calendar ter winning the gold when she declared, “All the glory goes to dates that were so refreshing to revisit, as what seemed like Him and the blessings fall on me.” Now that was God’s will at the time was a struggle, was faith tested, tried and proven for Gabby, and His will for us is each individually different. beneÀcial to our souls. This is where inspiration is sparked. But one thing we all have in common is we were created to It’s the oldest trick in the book...praise. give Him glory. As you do so, He will only continue to give If we were created for God’s companionship and fellow- you opportunities to lift eyes up to Him. Answer your calling ship and everything created before us was to roll up into praise and use this as your motivation to do anything this new year. to Him, why wouldn’t that be the only form of inspiration and Do not start on Jan. 1. Stop right now, kneel down and give motivation when we are in the dullest of times. Instead of Him thanks. Then, let the inspiration come.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2016

The Sauk Rapids Herald

PAGE 5

SPORTS

Storm’n Sabres Wollak takes two matches defeat Otters

by ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER

by ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER

The Storm’n Sabres girls hockey team upset the Fergus Falls Otters Dec. 22, as an overtime goal secured the win for the girls on their home ice.

The team also took on North Wright County Dec. 20 and lost 5-2.

The girls continue their season Dec. 29-30 at the Fargo North Tournament.

Sartell-Sauk Rapids-Rice 3, Fergus Falls 2 The two teams were held at a scoreless Àrst period by powerful defense Dec. 22.

The Storm’n Sabres earned their Àrst goal 10:39 into the second period.

Brooke Walters was assisted by Bria Ferns on the goal. Megan Cook, assisted

by Ferns and Megan Mohr, scored the second goal 30 seconds from the end of the period.

The team didn’t score

another goal until 5:46 into overtime, which secured their win.

The girls incurred two penalty infractions for a total of four minutes and attempted 30 shots against the Otters.

Chloe Stockinger tended for the Storm’n Sabres, saving 18 of the 20 attempted shots.

North Wright County 5, Sartell-Sauk Rapids-Rice 2 The Storm’n Sabres came alive in the second period of their Dec. 20 game, but it wasn’t enough to overpower the River Hawks.

Walters scored the Àrst goal for the team 10:19 into the second. Bre Hess followed 36 seconds later, assisted by Walters.

The girls had no penalties and attempted 21 shots against the River Hawks.

Tender Madison DeMarias saved 16 of the 20 attempted shots against the team.

Storm lose 6260 to Willmar

Saluting great accomplishments in the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School

BROOKE HELGET

by MARK KLAPHAKE STAFF WRITER

Parents’ Names: Danielle and Jared Helget Grade: 12th Accomplishment: Is a senior and captain on the gymnastics team

What is your favorite event to perform? My favorite event to perform has to be beam. I have really excelled in beam since my seventh grade year, when I was able to compete varsity beam, and I’ve only improved on it since.

What is the best meet you’ve ever been a part of? The best meet I’ve ever been a part of is the Tech meet when I was in eighth grade. During that meet I was the only Sauk Rapids gymnast to place in the top Àve on beam.

What are some other activities you are involved in within school? Other activities that I am involved in include, DECA, bowling and track and Àeld.

What has been your most rewarding high school class to date? The most rewarding high school class that I’ve been a part of is DECA. Being able to qualify for Nationals in Tennessee with my two partners on our project last year was very rewarding.

What do you look forward to most during your senior year? I look forward to getting ready for college. I’m super excited to move on from high school, and start my college classes.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received? The best advice I’ve ever received is “Be conÀdent.” My coaches and friends have told me this repetitively, if it’s in gymnastics meets, or even if I’m just nervous for a test.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? I enjoy playing sports in my spare time, and if I’m not doing that I’m either hanging with my friends or family.

What are your future plans? My future plans are to go to college and get some kind of degree in medical treatment or physical therapy of some sort.

Leading the Storm is Sponsored by:

In a game that was tight throughout, the Sauk Rapids-Rice Boys Basketball came up one basket short at Willmar Dec. 22.

The Storm lost 62-60.

Neither team had a lead greater than Àve points in the game.

The Storm had the ball with six seconds left with a chance to tie or win the game but Tommy Wittowski’s Áoater hit off the rim.

“What we like to do in that situation is get our best ball handler with the ball and have him penetrate right to the basket,” said SRR Head Coach Derek Peterson. “If there is enough time, that opens up some kickouts and an open look or he can get to the basket and get a good look or get fouled.”

The game was tied 2828 at halftime and then foul trouble started to mount for the Storm. Both forward Deng Deang and center Cody Landwehr fouled out of the

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PHOTO BY ANNA SALDANA

Andrew Wollak and his Brainerd opponent hold each other in a tight position. Wollak won the match, as well as the one against Moorhead at a triangular meet in Sauk Rapids Dec. 22.

weight class, losing in a 5-0 decision. Hunter Rajkowski lost in a 6-0 decision in the 145-pound weight class. Tyler Och lost by a 16-1 6:00 technical fall in the 152-pound weight class.

Marcus Santillana lost by fall in the 160-pound weight class. Nelson won by fall in

the 170-pound weight class.

Joey Hoeschen lost by fall in the 182-pound weight class, as did Andrew Syvertson in the 195-pound weight class.

Molski and Donovan both won by forfeit, in the 220and 295-pound weight classes respectively.

The Storm forfeited in

SRR falls a basket short

Leading the

LOCATION Away Away Home

Andrew Wollak swept two matches Dec. 22 in the Storm’s home triangular against the Brainerd Warriors and the Moorhead Spuds.

Wollak wrestles in the 106-pound weight class. He won by decision over his Brainerd opponent and major decision over his Moorhead opponent.

The Storm lost to Brainerd 47-21 and to Moorhead 51-19.

The team continues their season Dec. 30 in Grand Rapids.

Brainerd 47, Sauk Rapids-Rice 21 Wollak, Brent Nelson, Daunte Molski and Gage Donovan each won their matches against Brainerd.

Wollak won by a 7-1 decision in the 106-pound weight class. Jared Spohn lost in a close 9-7 match in the 113-pound weight class.

Benjamin Gilbertson lost by fall in the 120-pound weight class. In the 126-pound weight class, Brady Vait lost in a 6-2 decision. Jacob Kruger made his season varsity debut in the 132-pound

the 138-pound weight class.

Moorhead 51, Sauk Rapids-Rice 19 The Storm fought through the match against Moorhead, but fell short 5119.

Wollak started off the match with a 12-0 major decision victory in the 106-pound weight class. Spohn won by 19-2 5:30 technical fall in the 113-pound weight class. In the 120-pound weight class, Gilbertson won by fall. Vait lost by a 12-8 major decision in the 126-pound weight class. Kruger lost in the 132-pound weight class by a 10-2 major decision. Rajkowski won by a 14-6 major decision in the 145-pound weight class. Och lost by an 18-2 5:30 technical fall in the 152-pound weight class.

Santillana lost by fall in the 160-pound weight class. In the 170-pound weight class, Nelson lost by an 11-6 decision. In the 195-pound weight class, Syvertson lost by fall.

The Storm forfeited in the 138-, 182-, 220- and 285-pound weight classes.

game with 4:30 left.

“It limited us. But the other kids stepped up and hung in there,” Peterson said.

Peterson said the teams shot selection was their downfall against the Cardinals.

“Our shot selection in Willmar was not good. We shot far too many three’s. We didn’t focus on getting the ball inside to the guys that needed to get the ball,” Peterson said.

“Because of that we didn’t shoot the ball well and they shot 28 free-throws and we shot 11. That right there was the difference. They attacked the basket and we didn’t.”

The Storm was 17-32 (53 percent) on two point shots but just 7-26 (27 percent) from three-point range.

“This game came down to shot selection. We did not take the right shots,” Peterson said.

The bright spot shooting from the outside for the Storm was Nathan Waldorf. He buried 4-9 three-point shots and Ànished with a team high 15 points.

“He is one guy if he is open for a three or a long two we want him to shoot the basketball,” Peterson said. “He’s one guy that has the green light.”

Cody Landwehr, 12, An-

thony Massman, 11, and Tyler Kranz, 10, were also in double Àgures. The Storm played Albany and Becker in their Christmas Tournament Dec. 28-29.

SRR 28 32--60 W 28 34--62 SRR scoring: Waldorf 15, Cade Milton-Baumgardner 3, Tyler Kranz 10 (6 rebounds), Deng Deang 7, Wittowski 2, Landwehr 12 (6 rebounds), Massman 11.

Team totals: FG 24-58, FT 5-11, PF 22.

Storm knock off Rocori, 60-54 The Sauk Rapids-Rice boys basketball team collected their Àrst Central Lakes Conference win of the season with an impressive 60-54 win over rival Rocori Dec 20 in Sauk Rapids.

“That was outstanding, it feels really good,” said Head Coach Derek Peterson. “I thought our kids played an outstanding second half of basketball.”

The Storm struggled in the Àrst half against Rocori’s zone defense and trailed by six, 31-25, at the break. They made a minor adjustment to start the second half and charged back.

“We changed how we attack their zone. We had one

big kid at the free-throw line and the other run the baseline so that they (Rocori) would have to match up with those guys,” Peterson said.

The adjustments worked as the Storm outscored the Spartans by 12, 35-23, in the second half.

“We took care of the pace, rebounded and took care of the basketball,” Peterson said.

The Storm got outstanding contributions from 6’5” forward Tyler Kranz and 6’7” center Cody Landwehr. They combined for 36 points and 13 rebounds.

“If we can get 19 and 17 out of those two we have enough talent that can score 12, 10 or 6,” Peterson said.

SRR hit critical freethrows down the stretch to seal the win. They Ànished 17-20, 85 percent, from the line in the game.

“It’s outstanding to see when the kids step up and hit big free throws,” Peterson said.

R 31 23—54 SRR 25 35--60 SRR scoring: Waldorf 6 (4 steals), Kranz 17 (4 rebounds), Deang 4 (8 rebounds), Wittowski 3, Landwehr 19 (9 rebounds), Massman 11.

Walz tops another gymnastics meet

by ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER

Anna Walz, the latest addition to the Storm gymnastics team, tumbled to her third top place Ànish in a row Dec. 20 against Howard Lake.

Her powerful routines contributed to the Storm’s 124.025-118.2 win.

On vault, Walz scored an 8.6, taking Àrst. Bergen Hen-

kemeyer followed with an 8.3, taking second.

Walz took the top spot on bars as well, bringing in a 7.95.

Justus Floren scored a 7.0, taking second and Henkemeyer took third with a score of 6.95.

Brooke Helget brought in the best score for the Storm on beam. She scored a 7.775 and placed second. Floren followed in third, scoring 7.65. Morgan Thompson tumbled close be-

hind with a 7.6, taking fourth.

Walz took Àfth with a score of 7.575.

Ann Starr took Àrst with her Áoor routine, scoring 8.725. Walz took second with a score of 8.2.

All-around, Walz took Àrst with 32.325 points. Floren took third with 30.25 points and Thompson took fourth with 28.75 points.

Boys hockey beats conference rival

by ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER

The Storm boys hockey team had a rough match against Rocori-River Lakes Dec. 20, losing 5-0. However, the team had success a few days later against Willmar, a Central Lakes Conference rival.

Lukas Marlin tended for both games, making a combined 64 saves.

The team will continue their season in the St. Cloud Apollo tournament Dec. 27-29 at the MAC in St. Cloud.

Sauk Rapids-Rice 6, Willmar 3 The Storm hit the ice a determined team Dec. 22 as they faced off against the Willmar

Cardinals. Cameron Bauer and Daymin Dodge led the team in scoring, each adding two goals to the team’s total six.

Bryce Kirt led things off for the Storm less than six minutes into the game.

Morgan Barber followed suit 11:20 into the Àrst, assisted

by Everett Moliga and Dodge.

Bauer’s Àrst goal of the game came almost immediately after Barber’s, with only six seconds in between.

Bauer scored the Storm’s only goal of the second period 11:31 in.

Dodge slashed the puck into the Cardinal goal twice in the third period, the Storm’s Ànal two goals of the game.

On the Àrst goal, Dodge was assisted by Jacob Clafton and

Bauer. He was assisted by Barber and Drake Raduns-Parsley on the Ànal goal.

The team attempted 24 shots during the game. Penalty time added up as the team sat 18 minutes on Àve infractions.

Marlin saved 24 of the 27 shots attempted against the Storm.

Rocori-River Lakes 5, Sauk Rapids-Rice 0 The Storm were held to a scoreless game Dec. 20 on their home ice, despite the team’s 19 attempted shots.

During the game, they sat 10 minutes on Àve infractions.

Marlin saved 40 of the 45 shots slapped toward the Storm goal.

PAGE 1B

Serving rural Benton County, Morrison, Mille Lacs & Kanabec counties.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2016

DNR works to draft sustainability plan Model suggests groundwater pumping is depleting Áow in Little Rock Creek

by NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

RICE — It has been nearly a year since the Department of Natural Resources initiated a planning project for sustainable water use in the Little Rock Creek watershed. Progress will continue into the New Year, but the question weighing on interested parties’ minds has been answered. Yes, there is a problem.

According to a Dec. 14 update given by the DNR at the Rice Lions Building, groundwater pumping is depleting stream Áow at one location in Little Rock Creek by a year-round average of 1.4 cubic feet per second (CFS) or 628 gallons per minute. In August, when stream Áow is typically the lowest, the average depletion increases to 2.5 CFS (1,122 gallons per minute.) The average maximum monthly stream deplePHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER tion was calculated to be 3.1 Rick Gilbertson, soil agronomist and member of the project advisory team to the DNR’s CFS (1,932 gallons per minLittle Rock Creek Sustainable Water Use Planning Project, asked a question at the Dec. 14 ute.) Groundwater pumping meeting in Rice. is effecting the ecosystem,

AG Connection with Job Title: Benton County bars. In the fall, we ready our Maintenance Superintendent equipment for winter by the Àrst weekend in November Responsibilities include: In and continue with equipment charge of all paved and grav- maintenance throughout the el road maintenance, snow winter season. plowing and highway department equipment maintenance; How many miles of road are and is responsible for running you in charge of? We mainthe county fuel station. tain around 430 miles of road in Benton County, give or take Please tell us about your po- a few miles. The county is sition? I schedule work for 13 about 50 percent blacktop and maintenance workers and one 50 percent gravel. mechanic. We have a daily maintenance schedule which What does a typical work consists of crack Àlling and week look like for you? I’m replacing an average of 30-55 out on the road looking for culverts in the spring of the hazards and work for the guys. year. As the year progresses, I’m inspecting culverts, seeing we gravel roads and try to put what is rusted out and needs down 30,000 yards of gravel to be repaired. I’m looking each year. We seal coat about for roads that need to be refour miles of patched pave- paired, and I bring that informent a year and manage ap- mation to the engineers. I’m proximately a $450,000 bud- spec’ing and ordering equipget, which is used for patch ment and communicating with work until county engineers the mechanic on a daily basis. are able to resurface or recon- And then there is training and struct roads. We clean ditches classes that you always try to from time to time and top- keep up with. cut road right-of-way ditches over a 14-day period toward When did you get into gradthe middle of June. By the ing and snowplowing and middle of August, we are able why? I was hired in 2002 as a to mow the ditches complete- highway maintenance worker. ly. We also maintain signage I always wanted to work for on the roads, as well as stop government because I always

wanted to better the community. I worked one year at that position, and when this position opened I applied for it.

Initially, I plowed snow for my brother-in-law for a few years and then for myself besides working out. I got my feet wet working construction for my uncle and always liked running heavy equipment. I like the winters. I like the snow. And I like plowing the snow which I don’t do because I’m kind of the weather guy. I stay up in the wee hours of the night, watch the radar and the weather coming in, and make the decision of what time to calls the guys in to send them out on the road to start plowing and stuff.

As far as maintaining the gravels, it’s just a maintenance routine. In the highway department we deÀnitely work as a team. We are one gigantic team. I always look at it as we’re more like a family because we spend so much time together.

and therefore something must be done to address the problem.

Over the last 25 years, groundwater use in the Little Rock Creek area has increased signiÀcantly faster when compared to the statewide average. Because of the risk of overuse and possible contamination, the DNR was taxed with determining whether usage would result in unintended consequences such as harming ecosystems and aquifers, or creating negative impacts to surface waters. They began a planning project in January 2016, created an advisory team of Benton and Morrison County residents, and developed a groundwater Áow model to aid in their decisions.

“The only way we could do this experiment in real life [without the model], is if we had climatic conditions in 2017 that were exactly the same as 2016. And everybody turned off their wells,” said Ellen Considine, DNR Groundwater Specialist, Hydrogeologist

3, of the importance of using a model. “We’re never going to produce those same climatic conditions — the intensity of the rainfall, the hot days the cold days — and I’m very sure nobody wants to turn off their wells for 2017. So that’s why we use the model — to solve this problem and to look at how much [water] is getting into the creek.”

Documented well locations, water levels, land geology, soil conductivity and water usage were all used in creating the groundwater Áow model. The information determined by the model and DNR will guide groundwater management in the Little Rock Creek watershed for the next Àve years.

The DNR hasn’t yet Ànalized a drafted plan. More analysis and work will continue in the coming month, but they are getting closer to delivering their thoughts.

“We are pretty sure we are lined up here,” said Steve Colvin, DNR Ecological and Water Resources Deputy Director. “We don’t think the residual work we have left is going to change in a substantial way, based on DNR continued on pg. 2B

M ark E bnet

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

Benton County Maintenance Superintendent Mark Ebnet is in charge of approximately 430 miles of roads in the county.

snow plow operation, as well as chainsaw safety and operation. We have monthly safety meetings, too. Safety is a big What kind of training is re- factor, including being alert quired? We are required to be to potential distracted drivers trained in First Aid/CPR; the who we share the roads with.

OSHA AWAIR and Right to Know programs; construction What are the greatest chaltruck, heavy equipment and lenges of your job? The

biggest challenge is making the right decisions. It can be challenging depending on the weather, but there is no storm or job too small or too big. We always get it done.

What do you enjoy most about it? Being outside is the biggest thing. I’m an outdoors

guy. I like being outside. I like taking on challenges. In one fashion, stress is kind of good.

I don’t mind it. There are times you can be overwhelmed with stress, but I enjoy having a challenge day-to-day I guess.

Mark Ebnet continued on pg. 2B

PAGE 2B

Benton Ag

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2016

DNR continued from front_____________________

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the conclusion we are drawing from the analysis done today. Once we conclude we are above a sustainability threshold, we’re going to have to establish a protected Áow for Little Rock Creek.

In addition, we will have to establish a stream depletion goal.”

Once the DNR drafts a plan, public stakeholders and the project advisory board will have roughly a month and a half comment period to talk about the feasibility and acceptability of the actions proposed. The department plans on using a variety of avenues such as open houses, surveys, web postings and one-on-one meetings to enlist feedback. A Ànal meeting to review and discuss the plan will be held April 6 before it is submitted to the commission.

“If permit changes are needed … not only do we not anticipate them in 2017, we don’t anticipate them in 2018,” Colvin said. “We think the process of going through in a deliberative way to come to solutions for the situation we are starting to see, wouldn’t be before the 2019 irrigation season.”

The next meeting of the DNR and project advisory team is Wednesday, Jan. 25 from 1-4 p.m. at the Rice Lions Building, 101 Fourth Avenue NW, Rice. The public is welcome to attend.

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

Jason Moeckel, DNR Ecological & Water Resource Division Section Manager, presented about sustainable water Dec. 14 at a meeting in Rice.

Mark Ebnet continued from front____ What is the most memorable day on the job you’ve had?

We had Áooding two years ago in Benton County. We had roads washing out and the most memorable time was when we had a couple whose driveway had washed out.

It was late at night and dark, and there was about 3-4 feet of water running through their driveway. There was no way

for them to get to their house.

At the time, my challenge was making sure the folks could get to their house where they belonged. The guys and I put a culvert together, rolled it into place with the backhoe and backed up two trucks. We dumped the material in as fast as we could to seal the water, so the water had to run through the pipe. Then we backÀlled

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What are the three essentials to having a good gravel county road? You like to at least have 3-5 inches of a Class 5 base on them and you want to maintain them periodically depending on when you get moisture. You don’t want them to get too washboard-y. There is a problem with dust control and that runs into a cost factor. A lot of people would like to see their roads paved, but if you averaged what it costs to pave a road versus gravel a road, it’s probably cheaper to maintain a gravel road than a blacktop.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2016

Benton Ag

PAGE 3B

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE OF FILING FOR SAUK RAPIDS TOWNSHIP Notice is hereby given to qualiÀed votes of the Sauk Rapids Township, Benton County, that Àling for town ofÀce will be held for a two-week period beginning January 3, 2017 AfÀdavits of candidacy shell be Àled with the Town Clerk Tina Douvier, by appointment between January 3, 2017 and January 17, 2017. Contact her at 320-290-6564. AfÀdavits of candidacy may also be Àled between the hours of one and 5 p.m. on January 17, 2017 at the ofÀce of the clerk. 3465 Quarry RD NE Sauk Rapids. Filing will close at 5:00 p.m. that day. close OfÀce to be Àlled at the march Annual Election are: Supervisor for a Three-Year term Treasurer for a Two-Year term Clerk Tina Douvier.

Sauk Rapids Township R-51-2B MINDEN TOWNSHIP FILING NOTICE *CORRECTION NOTICE* Notice is hereby given that a Township Election in the Town of Minden, County of Benton will be held on Tuesday, March 14, 2017. AfÀdavits of Candidacy may be Àled with the Town Deputy Clerk from 8 A.M. January 3, 2017 through 5 P.M. January 17, 2017 for the ofÀces of: One supervisor for a Three Year Term One supervisor for a Two Year Term One Treasurer for a Two Year Term Please contact the Minden Township Deputy Clerk Glenice Mehrwerth at 320-492-6470 if you are interested in Àling for an ofÀce mentioned above. Filing fee $2.00.

Glenice Mehrwerth 3391 35th Avenue NE Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 Minden Township Deputy Clerk R-51-2B NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS TO CONSIDER AMENDING THE BENTON COUNTY DEVELOPMENT CODE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 11.8 of the Benton County Development Code, the Benton County Planning Commission and the Benton County Board of Commissioners will conduct public hearings to consider Ordinance #458 to amend the Benton County Development Code (Ordinance #185) as follows: Allow Commercial Daycare Facilities in all districts as a conditional use.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the public hearings on the proposed amendment will be held in the Commissioner’s Room, Government Center, Foley, Minnesota. The Planning Commission hearing will be held on January 12th, 2017, at approximately 7:00 p.m. The County Board hearing will be held on January 17th, 2017, at approximately 9:30 a.m.

ANYONE wishing to be heard in regard to the proposed amendment is hereby notiÀed and will be heard at the above public hearings.

R-52-1B

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Benton County Planning Commission will conduct public hearings on January 12th, 2017 the Commissioner’s Room, Benton County Government Center, Foley, and beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Planning Commission will hear the following: 1. 7:00 p.m. Public hearing to consider Ord. #458 (see separate notice) 2. 7:05 p.m. Donald and Charles Corrigan, Landowners, Anderson Brothers, Applicant, requesting an interim use permit to operate a mining operation in the Agricultural District. Pursuant to Sections 7.1.24A, 9.7 and 11.6.3. The affected property is described as follows: part of the N1/2 NE1/4, and SW1/4 NE1/4, Section 27, St. George Township.

ANYONE wishing to be heard with reference to the above will be heard at this meeting.

R-52-1B CITY OF SAUK RAPIDS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE You are invited to attend a public hearing on Monday, January 9th, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, in the Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Avenue North, to consider the following matters that require a public hearing.

APPLICANT Daniel and Rebecca Legatt: Preliminary Plat PURPOSE To consider a Preliminary Plat that would include one single family lots. Legal description: Outlot E, Scenic Acres.

Please contact Sauk Rapids Community Development Director Todd Schultz at (320) 258-5315 or tschultz@ci.sauk-rapids. mn.us with questions or stop by City Hall to obtain a copy of the application.

Any person desiring to comment on these matters is invited to do so in writing or orally at the time of the public hearing.

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Benton Ag

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2016

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Despite increases, next the continued year could prove decline in the The to be the turning ag economy Business point with imthis past year, proved pricing.” there is plenty of Farming They’re basing of good news their forecast as we head by on the belief into the New Roger Strom that the ofÀcial Year. estimates for Ag The ag- Columnist__________ __________ the U.S. harriculture divest are too high vision of and there is goMetLife (America’s top farm ing to be a “global production mortgage lender) is predicting pullback.” There are plenty of better grain and oilseed pric- forecasts for a huge increase in es in 2017. According to the soybean plantings, but MetLife economists at MetLife, “After is predicting bean acres will four successive years of supply remain Áat while corn acreage will drop some 3.5 million acres next year.

The 2017 year is also expected to be a good year for ag exports with USDA forecast-

ing sales to reach $134 billion.

That would push the agricultural trade surplus to $22 billion, much of that due to increases in dairy and livestock byproduct sales.

With the end of La Nina, drought conditions are improving. Snow has been building up in the Sierra Nevada Mountains which supply much of the irrigation water for California farmers. The drought areas of the Ohio Valley through the Tennessee Valley are also improving to the point some are declaring an end to the drought.

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said, “Next year, looking at least the way the futures markets are shaping up, the margin opportunities are looking pretty good, so when you’ve got a promising outlook on farm margins, you know, that’s an opportunity again to start adding cows and start making a little more milk.”

Adding to that optimism is the fact European milk production is down and the world supply/demand picture has begun to balance out, providing an opportunity for U.S. producers to increase export sales.

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A strengthening U.S. economy is expected to increase beef and pork consumption.

Iowa State livestock economist Shane Ellis recently made the comment, “I’m not saying it’s going to be an easy-go year, or we’re going to make lots of money, but I also see some improvement and possibly we could get back into the positive for the year 2017”.

With new leaders in our nation’s capital and shifting world economies, 2017 is going to be a year of change and hopefully a turning point for those in the business of farming.

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