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THURSDAY, FEB. 2, 2017
Gundersons named Morrison County Farm Family of the Year Award reÁects brothers’ community involvement BY JENNIFER COYNE STAFF WRITER
UPSALA – On any given day of the year, the communities of Morrison County are sure to see Alan or David Gunderson volunteering their time towards organizations and events that are near to their lifelong career of dairy farming. It is because of that dedication that the Gunderson brothers, and their families, received the 2016 Morrison County Farm Family of the Year at Farmfest Aug. 3 in Redwood Falls. “Last spring, we found out we had been chosen as a nominee, but we were surprised when we found out we had won,” Alan said. “There are lots of people in our county who are just as deserving.” Alan and David milk 65 Holsteins with their wives, Tina and Patti, respectively, on their family’s 67-year-old farm near Upsala. Alan and Tina have two stepchildren, Kaitlyn and Derek, and two young children, Jacob, 10, and Daniel, 7. David and Patti have three grown children – Sara, Amy and Karl – and two grandchildren, Makayla and Leo. The family farm began in 1950, when the Gundersons’ parents, Loren and Helen, started with 140 acres and milked 10 cows in a 14-stall tiestall barn. At the time, they also raised pigs. “Basically, we’ve been milking our entire lives,” David said. “After school, we never left the farm.” Alan smiled and agreed. “Dad just told us to take over when he was not able to, so that’s what we did,” he said. Rather than pursuing careers off the farm, David and Alan created a partnership in 1989, and have since dedicated their lives to dairy farming and sharing their passion with others in central Minnesota. The dairymen are involved in their local church and community, through the Àre department and legion auxiliary, as well as the Morrison County American Dairy Association Board and local DHIA and creamery Gundersons: page 3B
PHOTO BY JENNIFER COYNE
The Gunderson, David (left) and Alan and Alan’s son, Daniel, are this year’s Morrison County Farm Family of the Year. The Gundersons milk 65 Holsteins with their families near Upsala.
Stamper covers past, present, future of irrigation scheduling BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER
BOWLUS — Irrigation systems scattered across central Minnesota farm Àelds have become almost standard. Although agricultural irrigation dates back over 3,000 years, irrigation in Minnesota is relatively young and the modern center-pivot system, which appears in 94 percent of the state’s irrigated acreage, was invented less than 80 years ago. “Center pivots are one of the most advanced ways to water large plots of land,” said Joshua Stamper, of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Stamper, a former irrigation specialist, spoke to members of the Upper Mississippi Irrigators Association at their annual meeting Jan. 18 at the Bowlus Community Center. He presented the past, present and future of irrigation scheduling and weighed in on what tools he Ànds most useful. Irrigation in Minnesota is not driven by dry, arid climates like in the western
PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER
Joshua Stamper, of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, spoke to members of the Upper Mississippi Irrigators Association Jan. 18 in Bowlus about advancements in irrigation scheduling.
United States, but rather by inconsistencies in landscapes, soil retention and precipitation. According to Stamper, water is one of the most yield-limiting factors in most crop systems and can ultimately increase
or decrease land proÀtability. Although Stamper feels the state has a wealth of water available, he stressed conscientious use of the resource. “Good water management will maximize
your yields and minimize the potential for pollution,” he said. The certiÀed professional agronomist reminded the UMIA members that applying too many chemicals and
overwatering can push the pollutants down through the soil proÀle into groundwater instead of keeping them in the topsoil where roots of crops can properly use them for growth. “I don’t think any of you
are going to hear less about these issues,” Stamper said. “But we can deal with this stuff agronomically. If we do a really good job managing fertilizer and managing water, we are going to minimize that potential for groundwater pollution.” For years, farmers have monitored moisture and nutrients using lysimeters, the University of Minnesota Extension’s Irrigation Scheduling Checkbook Method or soil-balance sensors. Over the years, technology has advanced methods of monitoring moisture and nutrients. One development Stamper spoke of was telemetry, an automated communications process by which measurements and data are collected at remote or inaccessible points and transmitted to devices such as smart phones, tablets or computers. Stamper explained that farmers could be Àshing on the lake or at a daughter’s softball game and still be able to check on their Àelds’ needs. Telemetry Irrigation: page 2B
PAGE 2B | THURSDAY, FEB. 2, 2017 | BENTON AG
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from front could also be coordinated with pivots so farmers could remotely start their systems when needed. “Telemetry is auto-steer for irrigation,” Stamper said. “I’m willing to bet if you’ve ever bought auto-steer systems for your equipment, you’re not going to go back.” In addition to telemetry, Stamper informed the farmers about satellite thermal imagery and variable irrigation – where water is applied to speciÀc parts of Àelds and not others, so as not to inadvertently reduce yields by washing away nutrients. Through thermal imagery, crop-growers can base their irrigation from what the plant is telling them rather than what the soil indicates. Stamper said plants communicate stress through rolling up and protecting themselves by transpiring
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assumption there is something wrong with what we already have,” Stamper said. “The checkbook is an extremely powerful tool.” The crop-farmer also suggested the use of tools that came before irrigation – a shovel and a rain gauge in every Àeld.
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– a dairy promotion event that allows local celebrities to test their dairying skills against those of the county dairy princesses. “We have the county commissioners, priests and sheriffs compete,” Alan said. “Last year, we drew a big crowd.” However, dairy farming is more than promotions. For the Gundersons, milking cows has also allowed the family to stay connected and rooted in agriculture. Over the years, the Gundersons expanded their tiestall barn, installed a ma-
Gundersons from front
boards. The Gundersons have also hosted University of Minnesota Extension Àeld days, and in 2013, the family hosted the county’s annual breakfast on the farm event. “We’ve kind of done everything but be involved in the farm bureau,” said Alan with a chuckle. Each summer, the Gundersons help with the county fair’s milking contest
nure pit and purchased an additional 200-some acres of tillable land for corn, oat and alfalfa production. “We’ve added on as needed in order to keep going,” Alan said. While Alan maintains the herd health, David milks the cows. “Basically, I’ve been milking for 44 years,” David said. “Since 1975, when chores were done the hard way.” Often times, Jacob and Daniel also help with daily chores, and Karl lends a hand when he is able.
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A calendar photo of the Gundersons’ barn reminds Alan of the rewards in dairy farming.
ery day and be a part of the dairy,” Alan said. “He would watch us for hours and make sure everything was getting done.” Alan and David are humbled to have received the Morrison County Farm Family of the Year award, and hope to continue their family’s dairy and share their experi-
ences with area communities for many years to come. “A lot of people tell us how nice it is to come out to the farm and how open we are,” Alan said. “We’re happy where we are and where we’ve been, and I think the awards says it all – it feels good to be honored by our peers.”
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While family time is often found in the barn, both Alan and David work together to give each other time off of the farm with their families. “We’re a lot more Áexible than we used to be,” David said. Alan agreed. “If I have to take off early for a basketball tournament, I can be back in time for evening chores and David covers for me during the day,” he said. “We really try to not do more than routine chores on the weekend, so that we both have time with family.” In their years of farming together, the Gunderson brothers have learned to work through challenging times in the industry. “When we bought land a long time ago, the Àrst few years after that were pretty tight,” David said. “But now, we’re here.” “We’ve learned that we don’t buy what we don’t need and try to keep our overhead costs pretty low,” Alan added. This has been especially important with milk and grain prices Áuctuating. With young family members involved on the dairy, the Gundersons think their parents would be proud of the strides their sons have made in the industry and the interest the third generation has developed for dairying. “At 88 years old, Dad would still come out ev-
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The Gundersons (from left) – Karl, Patti, David, Tina, Daniel, Jacob and Alan – are the 2016 Morrison Farm Family of the Year. The family received the award at Farmfest in Redwood Falls last August.
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PAGE 4B | THURSDAY, FEB. 2, 2017 | BENTON AG Notice of Public Meeting The Benton County Board of Commissioners will conduct a public meeting on February 7, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. in the Benton County Boardroom, 531 Dewey Street, Foley, for the purpose of taking public comment on a County proposal to make the position of County Recorder an appointed positon. It is now an Elected position. All persons interested may appear and be heard at the time and place set forth above. Individuals unable to attend the public meeting can submit written comments to the Benton County Administrator, Benton County Government Center, 531 Dewey Street, Box 129, Foley, Minnesota 56329. Email comments will also be accepted. The address for email comments is mheadley@ co.benton.mn.us. Written comments must be received prior to the public meeting. R-5-1B *Public Notice* Bids for County Highway Construction Projects Whereas Minn. Statute § 331A.03 Subd. 3(b) allows a county to use its web- site or recognized industry trade journals as a means to advertise to receive bids for construction projects. Let it be known that from this day forward that Benton County will use the Benton County website, http://www.co.benton.mn.us/ as the alternative means to disseminate solicitations of bids, requests for information, and requests for proposals for transportation related construction and maintenance projects. For questions on how to receive a set of plans or bidding procedures, please contact the County Engineer at phone number 320-968-5051. Sincerely, /s/ Chris Byrd, P.E. Director/County Engineer R-5-1B
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Sauk Rapids City Council will meet on Monday, February 13, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible at the Sauk Rapids Government Center, located at 250 Summit Avenue North, to consider making street improvements to Summit Avenue North, I 0th Street North, 11th Street North, Stearns Drive, 13th Avenue North, and River Avenue North. The improvements to Summit Avenue North, 10th Street North, 11th Street North, Stearns Drive and 13th Avenue North include edge milling with a 2-inch bituminous street overlay of the existing pavements and improving existing pedestrian ramps to meet current ADA standards. The proposed improvements to River Avenue North include a full-depth reclamation of the street and bituminous paving from 2nd Street North to 10th Street North as well as construction for extension of the existing water main and connection to water service and sanitary sewer service from 7th Street North to 8th Street North. The area proposed to be assessed for the improvements includes the properties abutting Summit A venue North (including the cul de sacs) from 9th Avenue North to the 2nd cul de sac from the South, Summit Avenue North from 2nd Street North to 11th Street North, 13th Avenue North, 10th Street North, 11th Street North from Summit Avenue North to Stearns Drive, Stearns Drive and River Avenue North from 2nd Street North to 10th Street North. The estimated cost of the improvement is $1,105,090.00. A reasonable estimate of the impact of the assessment will be available at the hearing. Any person desiring to comment on this matter is invited to do so in writing or orally at the time of the public hearing. Published in the Sauk Rapids Herald February 2, and February 9, 2017. R-5-2B
Robots, parlors workshop coming
University of Minnesota Extension will be hosting a system. Lastly, there will be a panel of local dairy producworkshop titled, “Robots vs. Parlors: Economics & Op- ers, sharing their own experiences of deciding between rotions.” This workshop is for area dairy producers who may bots and parlors. Ànd themselves at a crossroads between putting in robots It is a great opportunity for dairy producers to explore for automatic milking or building a parlor. There will be their options and learn about the considerations that go into two workshops this year. The Àrst held Thursday, Feb. 9 making a decision. Producers from all size farms and stages at the Browerville Community Center. The of life are welcome to attend. It is also encouraged second held on Friday, Feb. 10 at Dino’s that agribusinesses who work with producers in Eden Lakeside Club in Eden Valley. Both this position attend. workshops will cover the same content and • Friday, Feb. 3 – Browerville Community will run from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., with regCenter, 653 Main Street South, Browerville. istration starting at 10 a.m. RSVP to Brenda at nels4220@umn.edu or call A great line up of speakers and (320) 533-4655. topics has been selected for this workshop. • Friday, Feb. 10 – Dino’s Eden Lakeside Club, David Kammel with the University of Wis15445 County Road 9, Eden Valley. RSVP by Feb. consin-Madison will present on design and 3 to Emily at krek0033@umn.edu or (320) 255layout for low-cost parlors. Jim Salfer with BY BRENDA MILLER 6169, extension 3. University of Minnesota Extension will University of Minnesota If you have any questions about the workshop Extension discuss options and considerations for roor would like to be a sponsor for the event please botic milking systems. Kevin Janni with the contact Emily Wilmes at the Stearns County University of Minnesota will talk about dairy housing and Extension OfÀce at (320) 255-6169, extension 3 or Brenda ventilation options. There will also be a discussion on the Miller at the Todd County Extension OfÀce at (320) 533economic comparisons of a parlor versus a robotic milking 4655.
Trans-PaciÀc Partnership As he promised throughout his campaign, President Trump has torpedoed the 12-nation Trans-PaciÀc Partnership trade agreement saying the withdrawal was a “great thing for the American worker.” A lot of folks in the farming sector are pretty upset with his decision, but we have to remember, we never actually had an agreement because TPP was never approved by congress. What we have lost, however, is “opportunity.” TPP
was viewed as a potential $62 billion market for U.S. farmers. A real boost for a struggling ag economy that depends greatly on exports. Sometimes we forget that 96 percent of the world’s consumers live outside the United States which is why more than 25 percent of all U.S. ag production ultimately goes to exBY ROGER STROM port markets. We raise a lot The Business of Farming of corn, soybeans and pigs in our part of the country, and more than half of our soy- pork are exported with a total beans, 15 percent of the corn value of nearly $130 billion and 25 percent of the nation’s last year. The TPP represents 40 percent of the world’s gross domestic product and according to the Peterson Institute, would have increased overall U.S. exports by $357 billion by 2030. The real concern is that without TPP or an alternative agreement, U.S. farmers will lose market share to our trading competitors who have been successfully negotiating trade agreements over the past several years. Australia, Canada, Russia and the European Union already have trade agreements and are in the process of negotiating new deals with countries outside the existing U.S. trade deals – countries that would love our markets share. On the positive side, President Trump has said, “Even though I don’t like TPP, I like trade and we need to negotiate down barriers.” He has talked
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of negotiating trade pacts with individual countries instead of joining TPP. He might be able to replace TPP with bilateral agreements with countries such as Japan, Vietnam and others in Southeast Asia. Getting a deal with Japan would be a huge win for the U.S. grain and meat industries. Again, we never actually had a congressionally approved TPP deal, but what we do have is NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement and there are some serious potential repercussions of trying to renegotiate that deal. President Trump says he wants to renegotiate NAFTA with Canada and Mexico with the goal of getting “a better deal” – a process that could take years. The amount of agriculture trade with those two countries is more than four times what it was before NAFTA went into effect about 20 years ago and reopening those negotiations is going to be “treading on thin ice.” It’s a gamble our farmers can’t afford to lose.
Morrison County accepting dairy princess applications LITTLE FALLS — The Morrison County Dairy Association is accepting applications for their upcoming dairy princess contest. Young Morrison County women who are a senior in high school up to 24-years of age by July 1, 2017, and who are current dairy farmers or who grew up on a dairy farm are eligible to apply. The Morrison County Dairy Princess will be chosen at the ceremony to be held March 25. For more information call Cindy Welle at (320) 745-2615 or Stacy Happke at (320) 468-6257.
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BENTON AG | THURSDAY, FEB. 2, 2017 | PAGE 5B
Feeling accomplished Rajkowski hits 100 wins
BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER
SAUK RAPIDS – Hunter Rajkowski has been wrestling since he was 4, with the support of his dad and uncles. Now, 13 years later, he has reached what he has been dreaming of since the beginning. Rajkowski reached his 100th varsity win Jan. 21 after placing third in the Eastview Tournament. “It’s always been one of those things I’ve wanted to accomplish, and I feel very much accomplished. Not many people reach this point,” Rajkowski said. “It’s a huge deal to get it, especially since my cousin and best friend Tony Bemboom got it a few weeks prior to me.” Rajkowski credits his family, particularly Bemboom, for getting him to where he is today, both as a person and as a wrestler. PHOTO SUBMITTED
Hunter Rajkowski joined an elite group of wrestlers Jan. 21 when he attained his 100th varsity win. He feels humble and accomplished for making it to the milestone.
Storm takes 10th at True Team State
PHOTO BY ANNA SALDANA
recognizes his skepticism during his sophomore year, but also recognizes his hard work and dedication last season. “I was really skeptical during my sophomore year. I really didn’t think I would get to 100,” Rajkowski said. “But last year, I know I put a lot more dedication into my wrestling and that made all the difference in the world.” The state meet is one of his fondest wrestling memories, despite being the only Storm wrestler to participate. “It was intimidating being the only one,” Rajkowski said. “But it was a crazy experience. You get into the underground tunnels, where the Wild typically come out of, and it’s all calm and quiet. Then you come out and all these people are in the stands and there are all these mats on the Áoor. It was a surreal experience, thinking ‘wow, I get to wrestle here.’” With four and a half weeks left in the season, Rajkowski is humble about his milestone, but plans to keep pushing forward. “I am incredibly honored and humbled that I made it to 100,” Rajkowski said. “Next step – the state tournament.”
“Tony and I spend a lot of time together, both on and off the mat,” Rajkowski said. “Because we have always been close to the same weight, we will often wrestle against each other in practice. We focus on different things and polish different skills, changing things up all the time to help us prepare for tough matches. We are really good for each other, and I think that deÀnitely helps in getting us both to 100 wins.” He also credits his coaches. “They know how to push us in the right ways,” Rajkowski said. “They want us to succeed as much as we want to. And that’s the mentality they coach with. It’s great.” Similar to Bemboom, Rajkowski has higher goals he’s reaching for this season now that he’s attained this milestone. “Last year, I placed sixth at state,” Rajkowski said. “This year I want to make it to state and do better than last year. I do believe I can do it. It will just take a lot of hard work to get my conditioning up.” Looking back, Rajkowski Boys Hockey
Scott, Raduns-Parsley add goals
BY ANNA SALDANA Tommy Stiegel swims the 200 STAFF WRITER freestyle relay during the Jan. 28 True Team State meet at Chace Scott and Drake Raduns-Parsley prevented the the University of Minnesota Aquatics Center. The Storm Storm boys hockey team for shutout matches against Sartell Jan. 24 and Brainerd Jan. 26. took 10th of 12 teams. Bonovsky 4:08.91; 47th Christopherson, Dingmann, Nielsen, Johnson 4:47.21.
BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER
The Storm boys swim and dive team had a powerful week in what continues to be a successful season. The team took on St. Cloud Tech Jan. 26, bringing home a 97-86 win. The team also traveled to the University of Minnesota Aquatics Center Jan. 28, where they reached their goal of making it into the top 10 of 12 teams. The team swims against Melrose Jan. 31 and hosts Apollo/Rocori Feb. 2. 10th at True Team The team reached their goal of 10th place with 1,039.5 points at the state meet, improving by one spot from last season. “That was one of our goals coming into this meet – making the top 10. It was awesome to see them reach that,” said coach Ray Nelson. “It was just great to see the boys compete with and against some of the best teams in the state.” Some of the most notable Ànishes were the diving brothers Jack and Elijah Grabinski. Jack came in third
SRR 97, St. Cloud Tech 86 The Storm swept the Tigers off their feet Jan. 26, bringing home their 97-86 win. “We knew we had to amongst 35 divers and Elijah came in eighth. Tommy compete well to get a win Stiegel came in 13th in the 100 against Tech,” Nelson said. “They have been a strong breaststroke. 200 MR: 14th Josh Deering, team that has matched up well Stiegel, Dylan Maanum, Kayden Daniels 1:46.70; 24th Ethan Baker, against us in the past. We were Isaac Freese, Carter Moilanen, Cole happy to come out ahead. We Bonovsky 1:53.81; 35th Morgan Freese, put together a complete meet Tucker Hendrickson, Thomas Daniels, Ethan Moriack 1:59.99; 47th Jack and performed right where we Christopherson, Preston Johnson, should be at this point in the Dane Dingmann, William Nielsen season.” th 2:25.13. 200 FS: 26 Ryan Kawlewski 2:02.71; 36th Bonovsky 2:06.10; 41st Mason Eisenschenk 2:09.94; 42nd Erik Moline 2:10.41. 200 IM: 20th Deering 2:14.59; 27th Maanum 2:18.26; 42nd Hendrickson 2:31.05; 45th Stephen Davis 2:35.25. 50 FS: 22nd Ben Claasen 24.24; 23rd K. Daniels 24.28; 32nd Stiegel 25.34; 33rd Baker 25.50. 1 MTR Diving: 3rd J. Grabinski 386.35; 8th E. Grabinski 316.70; 34th Andrew Zeppelin 65.25. 100 FLY: 24th Moilanen1:00.67; 25th Maanum 1:00.75; 34th T. Daniels 1:04.44; 43rd Bonovsky 1:12.88. 100 FS: 19th K. Daniels 53.26; 30th M. Freese 55.02; 40th Moline 57.63. 500 FS: 18th Kawlewski 5:21.95; 38th Davis 5:56.04; 43rd Moriack 6:06.79; 46th Eisenschenk 6:09.72. 200 FSR: 14th Claasen, Stiegel, K. Daniels, Kawlewski 1:38.21; 27th Moline, I. Freese, Eisenschenk, Moilanen 1:43.21; 35th T. Daniels, Moriack, Hendrickson, Davis 1:49.50; 44th Dingmann, Christopherson, Nielsen, Johnson 2:06.79. 100 BK: 18th Deering 1:02.30; 32nd M. Freese 1:05.75; 40th Baker 1:09.72; 47th Moilanen 1:20.12. 100 BR: 13th Stiegel 1:05.96; 31st I. Freese 1:12.44; 35th Hendrickson 1:14.66; 44th Johnson 1:24.46. 400 FSR: 21st Kawlewski, M. Freese, Deering, Maanum 3:40.35; 27th Claasen, T. Daniels, Moline, Baker 3:47.38; 39th Moriack, I. Freese, Davis,
200 MR: 1st Deering, Stiegel, Maanum, Claasen 1:47.11; 3rd Baker, I. Freese, Moilanen, Bonovsky 1:54.94; 4th M. Freese, Hendrickson, T. Daniels, Moriack 2:01.22. 200 FS: 1st Kawlewski 2:01.14; 3rd Moline 2:05.37; 4th Bonovsky 2:07.98. 200 IM: 2nd Deering 2:15.95; 4th Maanum 2:17.28; 6th Davis 2:34.59. 50 FS: 1st K. Daniels 24.07; 2nd Claasen 24.47; 5th Stiegel 25.17; 6th Baker 25.60. 1 MTR Diving: 1st J. Grabinski 236.25. 100 FLY: 2nd Maanum 1:00.56; 3rd Moilanen 1:04.17; 4th T. Daniels 1:04.57; Bonovsky 1:13.79; Dingmann 1:23.98. 100 FS: 2nd K. Daniels 52.72; 4th M. Freese 55.41; 5th Moline 56.88. 500 FS: 1st Kawlewski 5:24.53; 2nd Davis 5:48.10; 4th Moriack 6:01.61; Eisenschenk 6:05.05. 200 FSR: 1st Claasen, Stiegel, K. Daniels, Kawlewski 1:38.39; 4th Moline, I. Freese, Eisenschenk, Davis 1:45.01; 5th T. Daniels, Hendrickson, Moilanen, J. Grabinski 1:50.11. 100 BK: 2nd Deering 1:02.14; 3rd M. Freese 1:05.93; 6th Moilanen 1:14.81. 100 BR: 1st Stiegel 1:07.41; 3rd I. Freese 1:12.23; 5th Hendrickson 1:14.87. 400 FSR: K. Daniels, M. Freese, Deering, Maanum 3:39.40; Claasen, Kawlewski, Moline, Baker 3:47.11; T. Daniels, I. Freese, Eisenschenk, Bonovsky 4:00.69.
Dancers display talents at Sauk Rapids show
The team holds a 3-16 record, but hope to add wins Jan. 31 against Moose Lake and Feb. 2 against River Lakes. Brainerd 7, SRR 1 Raduns-Parsley started off the game with a goal seven minutes in. However, it wasn’t enough to hold off the Warriors and the team lost 7-1. The Storm sat 10 minutes on Àve infractions and attempted 14 shots on goal. Tender Jason Sjogren saved 33 of the 40 shots against the team. Sartell 8, SRR 1 Scott worked his way to the net three minutes from the end of the second period, adding the Storm’s only point of the game. Tucker Koenig assisted him. The Storm sat two minutes on one infraction and attempted seven shots on goal. Tender Lukas Marlin guarded the net for 43:27, saving 27 of the 34 shots. Sjogren then stepped in to guard for the remaining 7:33 of play, where he saved six of the seven shots. Girls Hockey
Storm’n Sabres win, lose one BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER
The Storm’n Sabres girls hockey team took on Roseau Jan. 27, falling 4-2, and Thief River Falls Jan. 28, winning 3-0. Last season, the Storm’n Sabres defeated Roseau to advance to state. “I think Roseau and Brainerd are our two top contenders in sections,” said coach Marty Anderson. “They are both tough teams to beat, but hopefully our girls can come through and advance to state again. They deÀnitely deserve it.” The team is 15-5-2 on the season and will face off against Alexandria Jan. 31 and St. Cloud Feb. 2 to end their regular season play. SSRR 3, Thief River Falls 0 The Storm’n Sabres shut out Thief River Falls Jan. 28 on their home ice. The girls scored one goal per period while Madison DeMarias kept the puck out of the net. In the Àrst period, Molly Mahowald scored, assisted by Megan Cook. Cook and Ellie Hansen assisted Cami Doman with the team’s second goal early in the second period. Bria Ferns added the third goal, assisted by Brooke Walters and Megan Mohr, late in the game. The team sat two minutes on one infraction and attempted 17 shots on goal. Tender DeMarias saved all 42 shots against her. Roseau 4, SSRR 2 The Storm’n Sabres fought hard against Roseau Jan .27, but fell 4-2. Walters added both goals for the team. The Àrst was scored with assistance from Cook and Ferns and the second with help from Allie Hemmesch. The girls sat four minutes on two infractions and attempted 20 shots on goal. Tender Chloe Stockinger saved 33 of the 37 shots slapped toward the net.
PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER
Megan Wahlin spins with the Storm Varsity Jazz team during their performance of “Hold On” at the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School Jan. 28.
BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER
SAUK RAPIDS—The Storm Dance Team held their annual show Jan. 28 at the Sauk Rapid-Rice High School. “Holding on to the Dream” included over 50 performances of jazz, kick, hip-hop, lyrical and ballet. The show included routines from SRR, Sartell and Cathedral High Schools as well as younger dancers from Just for Kix, of St. Cloud, Becker and Rice; Northcrest Olivia Charenruth, Bella Peplinski, Alli Burk and Kaitlyn Dance and Gymnastics; and Hejhal participate in a kick line during the Storm Varsity Ms. Melinda’s Dance Studio. Kick performance of “Am I Dreaming?” Jan. 29 at the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School.
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The Super Bowl city
BY ANNA SALDANA
The commercials, the food and spending time with family and friends crowded around a television are all typical occurrences for the Super Bowl. This year, I plan on paying attention to the game, just as I did last year. I have become much more interested in the course of play, a replica of my childhood self. But two years ago, when I lived in Phoenix, my mind was full of everything but the Super Bowl. Living in Phoenix was not my cup of tea, due to endless trafÀc and people. When Super Bowl weekend rolled around, I really hated that city. Celebrities, fans and everyone in between Áocked to Glendale’s University of Phoenix Stadium. But they were everywhere else in the city too – for the entire weekend and then some. Because the New England Patriots, my brother Jack’s favorite team, were playing in the big game against the Seattle Seahawks, Jack was interested in every aspect of the weekend. When my parents said no to buying a ticket and sending him to the game, he became the biggest advocate in turning me into a football and Patriots junkie. I wanted nothing to do with it. “Anna, you should go to [place] and take photos of [person].” How many times did I get a similar text or a phone call from my younger brother? Too many to count. My reply was often “why would I do that? I have no idea who those people are and what are the chances I’d even get close enough to snap a recognizable picture?” But I do remember going for a walk along the canal and sending him pictures of the blimps Áying in the air or signs giving directions to various events around the city. That much I did for him. The game ended in the Patriots favor after an interception at the one-yard line in the Ànal seconds. Despite it happening only minutes from my apartment, I actually didn’t care to watch the game on TV either. But because I knew my brother would ask “did you see that,” I asked my mom what happened and who won. Even after the game, Jack was still texting me. “Anna, the game’s over. Go drive by the stadium and see if you can see the Patriots. Get some pictures.” Or something along those lines. I still wasn’t interested. My brother got his glory time. A week after the game, my family Áew down to visit, and we took a drive to Glendale. Half of the Super Bowl writing was still on the side of the building. We got to see the Àeld where it all happened as it was lying out in the sun to dry, the paint half gone as well. But all that mattered was that Jack got to see the paint of the Super Bowl logo and the Patriots logos in the end zone, even though both were signiÀcantly faded. “Anna, I don’t know why you didn’t go places and experience things. You’re nuts,” Jack said to me as we walked out of the stadium. “Well Jack, you’re nuts for wanting me to go places,” I retaliated. If it matters now, Jack, I am planning on watching the game this weekend, cheering with you on every great play the Patriots make. But I won’t be going to Minneapolis for Super Bowl 2018 if the Patriots make it there as well. I got close enough in Phoenix. I don’t need to be On the Sidelines.
SPORTS
PAGE 6B | THURSDAY, FEB. 2, 2017 | BENTON AG
Wrestling
Grapplers take three wins
SRR 59, Alexandria 17 The match against Alexandria turned out very The Storm wrestling team similar to the one against took to the mat three times Fergus Falls, with the Storm throughout the past week, winning, 59-17 106: Wollak won by major against Sartell Jan. 26 and a 10-2. 113: Spohn won by triangular against Alexandria decision pin at 1:18. 120: Gilbertson won by and Fergus Falls. decision 8-3. 126: Brady Vait won by The Storm swept all pin at 1:30. 132: Warner lost by pin at 138: Ackerman won by forfeit. three matches – 35-28 0:36. 145: Rajkowski won by pin at 0:47. against Sartell, 59-17 against 152: Bemboom won by pin at 3:13. Alexandria and 66-12 against 160: Santillana lost by technical fall. 170: Nelson won by major decision Fergus Falls. 182: Syvertson won by pin at The Storm are 15-8 on the 12-4. 2:22. 195: Joey Hoeschen won by season. They face off against forfeit. 220: Donovan lost by pin at Rocori Feb. 2 and partake in a 0:20. 285: Konz won by forfeit. SRR 35, Sartell 28 quad tournament on Feb. 4 in The Storm fought through Anoka. a match-up against their Sabre SRR 66, Fergus Falls 12 The Storm defeated the rivals Jan. 26. Nelson’s pin Otters in a landslide, with sealed the close win for the many pins and Fergus Falls Storm. Rajkowski, Ackerman and Bemboom also got pins forfeits. 106: Andrew Wollak won by during the meet.
BY LAURA HINTZEN STAFF WRITER
BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER
pin at 0:17. 113: Jared Spohn won by technical fall. 120: Ben Gilbertson won by major decision 13-0. 126: Jacob Kruger won by decision 11-7. 132: Bryce Warner won by pin at 0:38. 138: Jacob Ackerman won by forfeit. 145: Hunter Rajkowski won by pin at 0:45. 152: Tony Bemboom won by forfeit. 160: Ben DeMars won by pin at 0:50. 170: Marcus Santillana won by forfeit. 182: Brent Nelson won by forfeit. 195: Andrew Syvertson won by forfeit. 220: Gage Donovan lost by pin at 0:39. 285: Ben Konz lost by pin at 3:13.
106: Wollak won by decision 5-0. 113: Spohn lost by decision 4-2. 120: Gilbertson won by major decision 13-2. 126: Vait won by major decision 15-4. 132: Warner lost by decision 8-5. 138: Ackerman won by pin at 3:31. 145: Rajkowski won by pin at 1:00. 152: Bemboom won by pin at 3:31. 160: Santillana lost by pin at 0:53. 170: Nelson won by pin at 4:49. 182: Double forfeit. 195: Syverston lost by major decision 9-0. 220: Storm forfeit. 285: Donovan lost by pin at 1:21.
Leading the
Storm handle Otters
Individual high single game: Jason Watercott – 275 Individual high 3-game total: Rod Oltz – 739 Team high single game: St. Cloud Hyundai – 1324 Team high 3-game total: St. Cloud Hyundai – 3630 League standings SR Legion 55-29 The Blue Line 48.5-35.5 Upper Deck 45-39 ATS 44-40 St. Cloud Hyundai 41-43 Greenkeepers 41-43 Sentra Sota Sheet Metal 32.5-51.5 Sartell Hardware Hank 29-55 Highlights Aaron Schultz – 649 Andy Paavola – 642 Greg Steinkopf – 638 Corey Brown – 638 Dylan Hawkins - 635
The Sauk Rapids-Rice girls basketball team were ready to Àght back Jan. 26 versus the Fergus Falls Otters after their loss to the Zimmerman Thunder earlier in the week. “The girls played together for the whole game,” coach Megan Foley said. “We really started to see our defense and offense blend together.” Bailey Becker was the leading scorer for the Storm, making 18 baskets for the night, two of these being three-pointers. Brooke Torvik added 13 points to the scoreboard, earning SRR a halftime score of 27-25. Bailey Roscoe chipped in 12 points, but also got into foul trouble. “The Baileys really started to get their shots to fall,” Foley said. “It was a great atmosphere for everyone.” SRR lost their game to St. Cloud Tech on Jan. 28, 54-52. The Storm play at St. Cloud Apollo Feb. 3. SRR 27 34 61 FF 25 30 55 SRR Scoring: Becker 18, Torvik, 13, Roscoe 12, Angela Konz 10, Ella Douvier 4, Brooklyn Harren 4.
PHOTO BY ELIZABETH BETHKE
Senior guard Brooke Torvik takes a ball to the basket during the Storm’s home game Jan. 26 against Fergus Falls.
Zimmerman 70, SRR 40 The Storm took on Zimmerman Jan. 24, where they lost 70-40. Becker led SRR, making two buckets from the inside and one three-pointer for a total of seven points. Roscoe chipped in six points, which helped the Storm to their 28-26 halftime score.
Torvik got into foul trouble, accumulating four, but also scored Àve buckets for her team. The Thunder took advantage after halftime and went to work for the win. SRR 28 12 40 Z 26 44 70
SRR Scoring: Becker 7, Roscoe 6, Torvik 5, Konz 4, Staci Meyer 4, Harren 2.
Boys Basketball
Beasts on the boards
Saluting great accomplishments in the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School
JOSHUA DEERING Parents’ Names: Debbra Deering and Daniel Deering
Rebounding keys boys third straight victory
Grade: 12th Accomplishment: Is a senior member of the swim team. What is your favorite part about swimming? Being with my team mates is my most favorite part of swimming because it makes the time go by faster and is a time to make new friends and to help younger swimmers get better. What is the best meet you’ve ever been a part of? For me all meets have been the best meet I’ve been a part of. What are some other activities you are involved in within school? I’m not a part of any activities outside of swimming. What has been your most rewarding high school class to date? I would have to say both my history classes and my German class. What do you look forward to most during your senior year? In my senior year I look forward to graduation. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? The best advice I’ve ever received came from my mother who told me as a young child to treat others the way you want to be treated. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? In my spare time I enjoy swimming, hunting, Àshing, camping, hobby farming, watching movies, playing video games and hanging out with friends. What are your future plans? My future plans are to got to basic training June 19 for the United States Marine Corps and then in January go to college for commercial aviation. Leading the Storm is Sponsored by:
BY MARK KLAPHAKE STAFF WRITER
The Storm boys basketball team won their third straight game and improved to 9-7 overall when they edged Brainerd 68-63 Jan. 24 in Sauk Rapids. The win had a lot of value for SRR. It improved them to 4-4 in the Central Lakes Conference and 3-2 against section opponents. Rebounding was a huge asset for the Storm against the Warriors. SRR outrebounded Brainerd 40-24, including
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with how he is playing,” Peterson said. The Storm have an extremely difÀcult road stretch coming up. They played at Fergus Falls Jan. 31 then travel to Detroit Lakes Feb 3 and Thief River Falls Feb. 4. “All three of these games are huge section games. “It’s probably one of the biggest weeks as far as the section goes,” Peterson said. “It’s a really big swing for us.” B 30 33 63 SRR 36 32 68
SRR scoring: Nathan Waldorf 4, Cade Milton-Baumgardner 7, Braden Tretter 4, Deang 21 (7 rebounds, 4 assists), Landwehr 11 (14 rebounds), Massman 21 (5 rebounds). Team totals: FG 28-65, FT 7-9, PF 9.
Gymnastics
Helget takes second on vault BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER
The Storm gymnastics team competed against St. Cloud Tech Jan. 24 and Alexandria Jan. 26. While the Storm lost to both teams, they had a handful of top three placings during the two meets. The team continues their season Feb. 2 against Fergus
Falls. Alexandria 134.8, SRR 126.175 Brooke Helget found a second-place and Morgan Thompson a third-place Ànish on vault against Alexandria. Helget also took a fourthplace Ànish on beam in the same meet.
Vault: 2nd Helget 8.5; 3rd Thompson 8.45; 5th Bergen Henkemeyer 8.45; 7th Ann Starr 8.4; th 10 Anna Magnan 8.225. Bars: 5th
Henkemeyer 7.2; 6th Helget 7.15; 8th Justus Floren 7.15; 9th Elie Weinert 6.9; 10th Thompson 4.5. Beam: 4th Helget 8.275; 7th Starr 7.7; 8th Nikita Presler 7.6; 9th Floren 7.4; 10th Thompson 6.775. Floor: 6th Starr 8.5; 7th Helget 8.4; 8th Magnan 8.1; 9th Thompson 8.0; 10th Floren 7.7. All-around: 3rd Helget 32.325; 5th Thompson 27.725.
St. Cloud Tech 143.375, SRR 126.675 Floren held the highlight of the meet for the Storm, taking third on beam. Helget followed closed behind in
Àfth.
Vault: 6th Helget 8.65; 7th Starr 8.55; 8th Magnan 8.375; 9th Henkemeyer 8.15; 10th Thompson 7.95. Bars: 6th Henkemeyer 7.225; 7th Weinert 7.0; 8th Helget 6.975; 9th Thompson 6.675; 10th Floren 6.65. Beam: 3rd Floren 8.125; 5th Helget 8.05; 7th Starr 7.5; 9th Thompson 7.15; 10th Katelyn Fouquette 7.1. Floor: 6th Starr 8.775; 7th Helget 8.750; 8th Thompson 8.425; 9th Magnan 8.3; 10th Floren 7.625. All-around: 4th Helget 32.425; 5th Thompson 30.2.
Jacks sweep Rochester BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER
14873 113th St., Little Falls, MN 56345
11-3 on the offensive boards. It allowed SRR to put up 13, 65-52, more shots in the game. Both teams shot around 43 percent for the game. “We did a good job rebounding. It was a big key for us,” said Storm Head Coach Derek Peterson. Junior center Cody Landwehr was a beast on the boards for the Storm. He had 14 rebounds. “He just delivers nightin-night out. He’s solid on the boards and plays good defense,” Peterson said. The Storm led 36-30 at
halftime. Perimeter shooting is a big part of the Brainerds offensive attack and the Storm defense held them to 12-37 shooting from threepoint range. “For the most part we did a good job defensively. [Michael] Russell got his points but we held the rest of the team down,” Peterson said. Juniors Deng Deang and Anthony Massman each scored 21 points to lead the Storm offensively. Massman was the Storms biggest outside threat in the game; he sunk three 3-point baskets in the win. “Anthony Massman has had a couple nice games in a row for us. I am very pleased
The Granite City Lumberjacks only allowed two goals during the twogame series against the Rochester Ice Hawks this past weekend. Granite City swept the series with a 5-1 win Jan. 28 and an 8-1 win the night before. Granite City 5, Rochester 1 The two teams got off to a slow start Saturday at Sports Arena East, with neither Ànding the back of the net in the Àrst period. Play looked passive, and although the majority of time was spent in the Jacks’ offensive zone, it seemed neither team could keep possession of the puck long enough for a good play. That quickly changed in the second when Lumberjack Keenan Lund crashed on net during a power play for a quick dish past Ice Hawk goalie Drew Schenkenberg. Lund was assisted by Braden Altena and Brady Dahl. The line would pair up for their second goal over half way through the second. Altena skated in from neutral ice and exchanged the puck to Dahl who ripped on from the top of the face-off circle. Dahl beat Schenkenberg glove side and sent the goalie’s water bottle Áying, spraying water into the air.
In an almost identical play Àve minutes later, Owen Sikich made the pass to Ryan Smith on a power play. Smith was credited with the goal. Sikich and Haugo tallied assists. In the third, Matthew Sprink took a centering pass to a Àve-hole goal at 4:21 with help from Casey Esselman. Rochester got one passed Granite City goalie Mac Berglove two minutes later. But defenseman Eric Moser topped off the Lumberjacks game with a power play goal assisted by Altena and Haugo. Granite City won 5-1. Berglove saved 14 shots on goal. Schenkenberg 31 of 36. The Ice Hawks sat 12 minutes on six infractions. The Lumberjacks 22 on seven. Granite City 8, Rochester 1 With goals from each team early in the game, it looked to be a see-one, playone night. But the Ice Hawks forgot to play. The Lumberjacks were able to capitalize with eight goals, three of which were power plays, throughout the night. Granite City forwards Chase Di Bari and Altena each scored two goals. Esselman, Smith, Sikich and Dahl had one apiece. Defenseman Spencer Nelson tallied three assists, followed by William Sprink and Lund with two;
PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER
Defenseman Justin Carlson feeds the puck to Braden Altena in the Jan. 28 home game at Sports Arena East.
and Esselman, Smith, Olson, Sikich, Dahl, Moser and Petroske each with one. Lumberjack goalie David Mulligan saved 14 of 15 shots, while the Ice Hawks split their play between Bailey Schmitz and Schenkenberg. Schmitz saved 28 of 35 and Schenkenberg 12 of 13. Granite City sat eight minutes on four infractions, Rochester
12 on six. The Jacks take on the North Iowa Bulls back to back in Mason City, Iowa Feb. 3 and 4. The Bulls have clinched their playoff berth in the central division with 55 points and a record of 27-60-1. Granite City is 24-5-4-2 with 54 points on the season.
PAGE 8B | THURSDAY, FEB. 2, 2017 | BENTON AG
Aerial drones acclimate to agriculture Ag Business Services
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Farm Business Managment Instructor Kraig Nelson spoke about drone application in agriculture at the Upper Midwest Fruit and Vegetables Growers Conference Jan. 19 in St. Cloud.
who has jurisdiction over aerial drone activity] released a law that any hobbyist who Áies a drone outside has to register that craft whether using it commercially or recreationally,” Nelson said. “There were 300,000 registrants in the Àrst 30 days and another 150,000 by midyear.” The instructor showed multiple videos of how aerial drones can be applied to agriculture through seeding and spraying, both of which cannot be utilized in the United States due to current regulation. Nelson also included pieces about how ground drones are helping with cultivating and harvesting. The possibility of aerial Àeld scouting was perhaps the most applicable to farmers of central Minnesota. “Rather than traipsing across the Àeld and getting your pants all wet in the morning, you can go outside and basically scout your
Àeld while standing and having your coffee,” Nelson said. Drones can be equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors that aid farmers in observing their Àelds and crops. Infrared sensors attached to drones can be used to compute information about the health of the vegetation into an image that is easily assessed. “When a plant goes into stress, it is either due to water, fertilizer or because it is being attacked by a pest. Photosynthetic activity decreases and that affects the chlorophyll content in the leaf itself. And that is what the NIR Infrared Sensor detects,” Nelson said. Nelson said sensors are not currently sophisticated enough to detect the type of stress the plant is undergoing, but the imagery still has beneÀts. “The sensor detects stress 10 days before a person can see the stress with their naked eye,” he said. “It can’t
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decipher between water, nutrient or pest stress. It just says, ‘I’m hurting. Come help me.’” Photo imagery can also be beneÀcial. Farmers may use the pictures to spot lodging, overly wet Àelds, weed density and reduction in foliage. As needs arise, so does technology, and companies continue to develop new software for drone agricultural production across the globe. “Right now, I go out on foot or four-wheeler and try to get an estimate from a 5-foot view. If you have a drone at a 50- to 100foot view that had software to detect or interpret the spikelet, that would be beneÀcial to me as a farmer,” said Nelson, who crop farms west of Detroit Lakes. Nelson has not yet implemented drone technology on his own farm, however. “Right now, the costbeneÀt ratio is a little tough to justify,” he said. “It’s more of a ‘wow’ factor in commercial productions. Drones are too small and too costly to apply to large scale operations.” But Nelson does believe the technology is useful. “This is just another form of technology that is helping farmers do more with less,” Nelson said. “Right now we are struggling to Àll our labor needs in the ag industry. I’m afraid robots and autonomous robots are going to replace a lot of manual labor.” Which might mean less farmers throwing their hands in the air, and more likely to be taking Áight.
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