The Star Post 02-22-2023

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Melrose school referendum fails by 285 votes

School board to consider next steps

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

A steady stream of Melrose Area Public Schools district residents walked into the Melrose City Center in Melrose from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Feb. 14, voting on whether to approve a $34,805,000 building bond referendum.

After in-person and absentee ballots were tallied, the referendum failed by 285 votes, with the unofficial vote count of 1,616 no votes and 1,331 yes votes. The results will become official after the school board canvasses votes Thursday, Nov. 23, at Melrose Area Public Schools in Melrose.

to be alive Lucky

Pieper encourages heart health

Melrose researching policing options pg 3 Hiltner happy to carry on legacy pg 7 ‘A Team’ has first baby boy in 2017 pg 16 Gymnasts scoring with the best pg 10

BY CAROL MOORMAN | STAFF WRITER

Every morning Arlene Pieper looks at the cruci above her bed and says, “Thank you, God, for another day.”

Never in her wildest dreams did this Melrose woman, who loves walking around town, think she would have heart issues. Yet, there she was on Oct. 27, 2022, in the St. Cloud Hospital operating room with a surgeon performing heart surgery to repair five blocked arteries to her heart.

She shared her story Feb. 15, during February American Heart Month, to bring awareness to the fact that cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women, causing one in three deaths yearly, according to the American Heart Association.

400 Block update

“I think it’s important to let people know that whether a bond referendum fails or passes, we have a proven track record that our staff will continue to provide a high quality education for all students,” Winter said during a Feb. 16 interview. “The issue with the failure is our staff will not have the updated facilities to offer more opportunities to our students for that high quality education.”

On Oct. 20, 2022, she walked seven miles on the Lake Wobegon Trail from Melrose to Freeport to have lunch with friends Nancy Kemper, Ann Schwieters and MaryAnn Middendorf at Pooch’s Corner Pub.

“I was fine all the way there, and then I got sick after I ate and felt awful,” she said.

Not wanting to alarm anyone she went into the restroom and started vomiting. Kemper took her blood pressure, which was low, and insisted she drive a reluctant Pieper to CentraCare-Melrose Hospital. Emergency room physician Dr. Kurt Schwieters told her tests indicated there might be an issue with her heart.

“My troponin numbers were high and getting higher,” she said.

A troponin test measures the levels of troponin T or troponin I proteins in the blood. These proteins are released when the heart muscle has been damaged, such as occurs with a heart attack.

As the sun was starting to rise Monday, Commercial Contractors Company workers from Melrose were inside the Lisa’s On Main building working on securing the west wall PHOTO BY CAROL

The three main components included in this referendum were $3,205,000 to address Americans with Disabilities Act issues, $18,435,000 for aging community facilities and $8,185,000 for career and technical education, with $2,175,000 for site improvements and $1,705,000 for interest rates, issuance costs and capitalize interest.

Referendum page 3

Pieper page 3

MOORMAN

The beat goes on

Season BEAT series

ticket holders love returning for encores

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

The beat goes on for the BEAT Performing Arts Series.

Jan Klug sat in the second row at the Blattner Energy Arts Theatre in Albany Feb.

11 listening to Deuces Wild.

Sure as heck, one of the entertainers picked on her.

“That’s what happens when you sit so close, the comedian likes to pick on you,” Klug said Feb. 14.

But this good-natured lady, known for the hat she always wears, was just fine with the kidding. She is thankful, as a season ticket holder, she could choose her seats close to the stage back in 2018 when she purchased tickets for the first series.

Judy Hoppe said, while Deuces Wild was a “wonderful experience,” she really enjoyed Artrageous, a unique performing arts show, which she took her granddaughters to see last season.

“They were high energy and did art projects right in front of you,” Hoppe said. “You didn’t know what they

DEATH OF A wrestling legend

in Albany after the

showcased during the 2022-23 BEAT Performing Arts Series

and the Thelens are season ticket holders for.

were going to come up with and ended up with the Statue of Liberty and John Lennon.”

This year ticket holders have been treated to three of six performances, with three remaining.

“I’ve enjoyed all the performances I was able to attend,” said Renee Thelen, who, along with husband Joey,

have been season ticket holders from the get-go. “I am a bit biased since our son, Grant, is a part of the Devon Worley Band, and they performed during the first season, 201819. A highlight that evening was Tim Wege (former high school principal) performing with the band. Mr. Wege was Grant’s band teacher and the

Former opponent remembers Kenny ‘Sodbuster’ Jay

two, as trumpet players and their love of music, have always had a special connection.” For season ticket holders Mike and Diane Noll, piano and brass bands are their favorites.

BEAT page 3

BY TOM FENTON |

Paul Ellering is not likely to forget Christmas night 1977. No, he was not roasting chestnuts or enjoying a fireside family dinner. Instead, Ellering was delivering and absorbing forearm smashes from the top turnbuckle in a wrestling ring at the Minneapolis Armory. Santa himself could not have delivered a better gift for the 1971 Melrose High School graduate.

Kenny page 2

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Arlene Pieper works on a 1,000-piece puzzle Feb. 15 in her Melrose home, with a photo of her parents, Bonie and Aggie Hinnenkamp, and a crucifix behind her. Four months after a surgeon performed quintuple heart surgery, she is thankful for continued support from family and friends.

PHOTO SUBMITTED Raleigh Miller (front, from left) and Jan Klug, David Eichholz from Deuces Wild, Judy Hoppe and Renee and Joey Thelen; (back, from left) Ted Manderfeld from Deuces Wild and Diane and Mike Noll gather on the Blattner Energy Arts Theatre stage at Albany Area Public School

Deuces Wild Feb. 11 performance. Deuces Wild was one of the six groups

that Klug, Hoppe, the Nolls

STAFF WRITER

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Holdingford native and longtime American Wrestling Association wrestler Kenny “Sodbuster” Jay (left)

A Valentine’s Day brighten

Albany NHS students deliver special gifts to MOM residents

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

Albany Area High School National Honor Society student Katherine Orbeck handed a carnation to 104-year-old Mother of Mercy Care Center resident Don Schmid Feb. 10.

“Well, this is awfully pretty, but you know I am really supposed to give this to a lady. But, I might just keep it for myself,” Schmid told her.

Words of appreciation were common as students delivered 70 carnations to residents, each with a homemade valentine note attached.

“Some don’t believe the valentine is for them. Some offer to pay the students. Most, though, smile and ask the students to place the valentine in a spot they could easily see, often right next to

Albany

their

is

It is a tradition for Albany students to visit with residents around Valentine’s Day, delivering carnation valentines.

“It’s just one way we work toward one of our missions to reduce loneliness among elders,” Hoffarth said.

NHS students raise money working in the concession stand during high school events and decide how to spend this money.

“Valentines for residents is a favorite project,” Hof-

Kenny from front

For Ellering, it was the

first match of an American Wrestling Association career filled with both physical pain and cherished memories. Little did he know his opponent that night – Holdingford High School graduate Kenny “Sodbuster” Jay – would become a lifelong friend.

It is also why Ellering was shocked and saddened when he learned of Kenny Jay’s death Feb. 2. “I was fortunate enough to win (that match), but Kenny really took care of me,” Ellering said in a phone interview. “He was the kind of guy who said ‘We’re going to have a heck of a match.’ I remember it went about eight minutes, and he was like a teacher the whole time. I wasn’t used to wrestling in front of big crowds. That kind of blew up my nerves. He would never really make you do tons of things that would make you nervous.”

Kenny Jay, born Kenneth John Benkowski in 1937, spent more than 30 years in the wrestling ring. He was best-known for making his opponent – normally a big name – look good. Kenny Jay, who lived in Shakopee, died Feb. 2. He was 85.

Ellering spent a couple days per year reminiscing with Kenny Jay and said he will be dearly missed. Though Kenny Jay had been in and out of the hospital recently, the news of his death still came as a shock.

Ellering was watching a YouTube video on fellow AWA competitor “Leaping” Lanny Poffel, who ironically died the same day. Ellering then

farth said.

In reality, this project is funded largely by the community, since it is the community that spends money in the concession stand during games, she added.

Students ask area businesses for quotes for the flowers, and they order the flowers and pick them up. They make valentine cards and use ribbon to tie them to the flower. Students cut the flowers and place them

learned of Kenny Jay’s death via a Twitter post by Dave Meltzer, who writes for the “Wrestling Observer.”

“I stayed in touch with him since that first match we had together,” said Ellering, who was a national champion and world record-holding weightlifter before joining the wrestling circuit. “He was as honest as the day is long and was a tremendous family man. My reaction was pure sadness. I was so happy that I got to see him a couple weeks ago.”

Kenny Jay owned a lawncare business when he got into wrestling, and the “Sodbuster” moniker was officially born. He started his career with the AWA in 1962, traveling the country competing against the likes of “Mad Dog” Vachon, “The Crusher,” Verne Gagne, Jerry Blackwell, Bobby “The Brain” Heenan and even future Minnesota governor Jesse “The Body” Ventura. His longtime tag-team partner was Jake “The Milkman” Milliman.

In 1976, Kenny Jay competed in the same ring with Muhammad Ali in a “Boxer versus Wrestler” event in Chicago. The result was the same as most of his wrestling matches, and it lasted two rounds.

Kenny Jay thrived in a sport known for its theatrics and acrobatics. While the winners were pre-deter-

in small valentine themed vases. Once the flowers are prepared, they meet a care center employee who leads them through the nursing home to be sure they don’t miss anyone. They are careful about wearing masks, doing all they can to keep the communities’ elders healthy and well, Hoffarth said. The treasured tradition is a Valentine’s Day brightener for the recipient and the giver.

mined, the action inside the ring – and the pain – were real.

Kenny Jay would dish out a few moves against his usually more-famous opponents, getting in some shots before eventually succumbing. Back then, that role was called a “jobber.”

“That’s what is referred to now as ‘enhancement talent,’ and Kenny was one of the best, if not the best, at it,” Ellering said.

“Everybody liked to work with Kenny because they knew they weren’t going to get hurt. At that level, the big names really wanted to be built up for the match, and Kenny made them look good. He was the one the promoters wanted in there to help draw big money.”

Ellering and Kenny Jay had not connected for about five years but reunited several years ago at a charity event at the Shakopee American Legion, where the two would also meet for breakfast a few times a year. The event included retired wrestlers such as Dr. X, Baron von Raschke (famous for “The Claw”), Kenny Patera, Gagne and Jim Brunzell.

Kenny Jay asked Ellering if he would be a part of it – an invitation he happily accepted.

“It became an annual thing where about 10 of us would sign autographs, Kenny would sell some things, and we’d sit around and tell lies to each other,” Ellering said.

Though the glory days of the AWA are long gone, being supplanted by the WWE, Ellering’s memories of being tossed around by Kenny Jay in the ring will hold a special place.

“Everything he did was his family,” Ellering said. “I never heard a foul word said about Kenny. He was always happy and someone you just wanted to be around.”

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Holdingford native Kenny “Sodbuster” Jay wrestled in the American Wrestling Association from 1962-85. He wrestled against several big names during his career, including Jesse Ventura, Verne Gagne and Mad Dog Vachon.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Area High School National Honor Society students Gracie Bogard (from left), Katherine Orbeck and Lily Geise deliver carnation valentines Feb. 10 to residents at Mother of Mercy Care Center in Albany. It

a tradition students do to meet their mission of reducing loneliness among elders.

Resident Don Schmid holds a carnation valentine Feb. 15 in his room at Mother of Mercy Care Center in Albany that he received from Albany Area High School National Honor Society students Feb. 10. Attached to the flower was a homemade valentine note.

A container of carnations with valentine’s attached waits to be delivered Feb. 10 by Albany Area High School National Honor Society members to Mother of Mercy Care Center residents in Albany. This year they delivered 70 valentine carnations.

chair,” said Sonya Hoffarth, NHS adviser.

BEAT from front

“The first season had some great shows, and we were excited to support the agenda,” Diane Noll said.

The BEAT series began in 2018.

“The idea came forth during the 2015 referendum as discussions were had around how we could utilize the BEAT outside of normal school functions, like concerts, programs and assemblies, to really benefit those in the Albany Area community,” said Cassie Novak, community education director. “After the district passed the referendum, community ed was tasked with researching options for how we could host events for the community in that space.”

Novak and Kelly Neu, community education coordinator, joined Minnesota Presenters Network to learn from others in the field about presenting, ticketing, securing performers, sponsorships, etc. A committee was formed that included community education staff, administration, school board members and community members, who had a common interest of bringing high-quality arts opportunities to Albany, with a primary goal to keep tickets affordable so everyone could experience it, Novak said.

As a community member, Thelen has been on the BEAT

Referendum from front

There were 2,947 total votes cast, a school record for a stand-alone referendum question. With 60 new registered voters, the school district had 5,086 registered voters. Of that 58% voted on this referendum.

“Usually, we have between 21 and 23 percent voting,” Winter said. “The large turnout was a great success on both sides, in getting out there and promoting ‘this is how you can cast your votes.’”

Of the 2,947 vote total, 1,700 ballots were cast Feb. 14 at the city center.

“At times the room was full of voters. However, check-in was smooth, and voters did not have to wait,” Rose Athmann, head election judge, said Feb. 15.

Election judges came

Pieper

from front

The more damage there is to the heart, the greater the amount of troponin T and I there will be in the blood, according to the internet.

Dr. Schwieters told her walking to Freeport was her own stress test and she failed it. He said she wasn’t going home.

“I was numb. I didn’t believe it because I didn’t have any pain,” said Pieper, who has yearly physicals.

The challenging search began to find a hospital specializing in cardiology care, while she spent the night at CentraCare-Melrose Hospital.

“The next morning they said we have good news. Your troponin numbers are going down, and we have a room for you at the St. Cloud Hospital,” she said.

Further tests in St. Cloud showed four arteries to her heart were blocked.

Things that happened months before made sense. Although she never had chest pains, since the summer of 2022, during times of exertion, she had four or five episodes of lightheadedness and would drink water and lay down, figuring it was heatstroke, something she had experienced before.

It wasn’t heatstroke. Her symptoms were due to blocked arteries, but thankfully she never had a heart attack.

“I was fortunate; the good Lord gave me warnings,” Pieper said.

Doctors said her heart condition was hereditary, which didn’t surprise her. A doctor called her mom, Aggie Hinnenkamp, a miracle wom-

series committee since the start. They looked at various acts for their grand opening in May of 2018.

“The Bad Habit Brass, featuring former band teacher, Dave Herdan, was the first performance,” Thelen said. “I don’t know what was more of a highlight for me –just sitting in this amazing venue or listening to the music.”

Novak said the committee works hard each year to create a well-rounded series, including musical and instrumental music, theatre, dance and comedy. Performers are recommended from the committee, past audience members and colleagues in the Minnesota Presenters Network.

“In addition, we have performers reach out to us as they hear about the beautiful space we have and the work we do with the BEAT series,” Novak said.

Once acts are chosen for the series, Neu works with artists or agents to facilitate contracts and riders and ensures John Kleppe, BEAT tech director, has what he needs in regards to sound and lighting requirements to make the show go off without a hitch.

Neu and Julie Krumrei, community education administrative assistant, are responsible for ticketing and series promotions.

“The BEAT series is certainly a team effort,” Novak said.

from Melrose, Freeport, Albany, Holdingford and Sauk Centre.

Winter said, according to information from Tammy Oliver, the school’s election clerk, 657 people cast ballots through absentee voting Jan. 3-Feb. 13 at the district office at Melrose Area Public Schools and the 590 remaining absentee ballots were mailed to the county by district residents.

Yes and no vote totals by precinct will not be reported because of the one polling location, Winter said.

This is the third time since 2016 that a Melrose school referendum question with similar components failed. On May 26, 2016, voters defeated an almost $29 million, two-question referendum. On Aug. 9, 2022, district residents voted down a $29,941,000 bond referendum by 141 votes. The components were the same for the 2023 referendum, but the

an, after this 91-year-old lady had a second heart attack with a low survival rate, but she pulled through and lived another three years. Pieper also has a brother and a sister with pacemakers.

Pieper’s open heart surgery was scheduled Oct. 27, 2022. Coronary artery surgery creates a new path for blood to flow around a blocked or partially blocked artery in the heart, according to mayoclinic.org.

Pieper remained in the hospital before surgery, when her children, Todd, Corey, Nicki Vogt and Zach, were constant visitors along with friends. Randy, her husband of close to 40 years, passed away Nov. 30, 2022.

She was not stressed about the surgery.

“The night before surgery I heard a voice saying, ‘You’re going to be OK,’ and I believe God was there,” she said. “He was watching out for me.”

“People have to start believing in God again,” she adds.

During the five-hour heart surgery, the surgeon restored blood flow in five blocked arteries to her heart, grafting a vein from her right leg. The fifth blocked artery was discovered during surgery.

Quintuple surgery is the most intricate heart surgery and includes all five of the major arteries feeding the heart.

She was walking the next day. Six days later she continued her recovery in a swing bed at the Melrose hospital where a crucifix she had Kemper bring from her home hung on her hospital room wall.

Three weeks after surgery she returned home, where family pitched in, and she learned to do things slowly. In early February, she complet-

The committee works within a budget.

“But we have been really proud of the high caliber talent we have been able to bring to the BEAT, thanks in large part to community sponsorships, while keeping ticket prices affordable,” Novak said.

The BEAT seats 800 people, with 400 of those seats currently held by season ticket holders.

Hoppe said the first year she purchased season tickets for herself and a few people.

“I gave them as gifts to a couple of people I had in mind that I knew would enjoy the series,” said Hoppe who appreciates the closeness of the venue, two miles from her home.

Diane Noll said there is another plus.

“We see things we may not have chosen, and we don’t have to travel to St. Cloud,” she said.

After a year when the series was postponed and performances rescheduled due to the pandemic, Thelen said it is great to be back at the BEAT.

“I know I had tears even before the first performance started when I sat in my seat, overwhelmed in many ways to be back in the BEAT,” Thelen said.

There are three performances remaining this season – Monroe Crossing Feb. 25, Michael Shynes and David Gerald Sutton March 25 and The World According to Garth

cost rose to $34,805,000 due to inflation.

This time around there were visible and vocal vote yes and vote no campaigns. With a building that was built in 1969, supporters saw the upgrades and new facilities as necessary. Some opponents did not oppose the project, but they did oppose the process, citing concerns about having one question to vote on versus a two-question ballot, one voting precinct and the economy.

“The need is there, but there is a difference in what people have for priorities, and you have to respect that,” Winter said.

He said the school board will discuss options. Their next monthly meeting is Monday, Feb. 27. A number of things could come into play about what that next step could be, Winter said, including any education-related action the Minnesota Legislature may take this session, which could

ed cardiac rehabilitation she started in November 2022 at the Melrose hospital.

She is grateful to her family, Kemper and other friends who have been her support system and thankful to everyone for their help and their prayers.

“My family has been awesome, and Nancy has been there for me the whole time,” Pieper said.

She has high praises for CentraCare staff.

“They were truly amazing,” Pieper said. “People need to realize we need more doctors, nurses, aids.”

Son Zach, who is a nurse, was a godsend to help her understand information from doctors.

Today, Pieper is feeling good, although she has been told it may take one year before she notices real differences. On recent warm days, she walked outside for the first time since Oct. 20, 2022, and she has made changes to her daily diet.

After her life-changing experience, she has advice for others.

“If you are exerting yourself and feel lightheaded and drinking a lot of water, have yourself checked out,” she said. “If you don’t, there

May 6. The committee will be releasing the entertainment lineup for next season soon, Novak said.

Klug said the series is a “great Saturday night getaway.”

“I love the BEAT,” she said. “It’s wonderful entertainment in a small town and you can visit with your friends and meet new friends.”

The 7 p.m. show time allows you time to go out to eat before the performance, Hoppe said.

“We went to the Hillcrest before Saturday’s show,” she said.

As the parents of four children who were in high school drama and music, and now with some of their grandchildren performing on the BEAT stage, Thelen appreciates having a venue like this in Albany.

“I do get a tad emotional that this theatre is a reality and am so grateful to the voters, Blattner Energy and our many sponsors throughout the past years,” she said.

Novak loves the variety of people who walk through the BEAT doors.

“Many don’t have other connections to the school, and this is a way for them to feel a sense of community and be able to enjoy the arts without having to drive too far,” Novak said. “Their smiles say it all as they leave.”

The beat will continue at the BEAT.

determine the pathway for schools for the next two years.

He spoke during the Feb. 16 Melrose/Freeport Chamber of Commerce monthly meeting at Magnifi Financial in Melrose.

“The legislative session this year will be very positive for schools,” Winter told chamber members. “There may be an increase in the ag tax credit. There may also be an increase in special ed cross-subsidy. A change in the equalization that allows districts like ours to make it easier on the taxpayer to pass bond referendums may also be addressed.”

The legislative session is scheduled to end May 22.

“There’s going to be a lot of work with public engagement in the near future,” Winter said. “They school board is committed to solving these issues.”

might not be a next time.”

She figures death may have been knocking on her door. Because of her hereditary heart connection, she suggested to her grown children that they have regular heart testing, and she encourages individuals to do the same thing, especially women.

.She is living life to the fullest, not wanting to miss out on special moments.

“Nicki texted one day and said, ‘I’m so glad you’re alive,’ and I said, ‘Honey, I am too,’” Pieper said. “Zach will text me and say, ‘Thank you,’ and I will ask what for, and he will say, ‘For being my mom.’”

She looks forward to hanging updated family photos on her walls. Near a table filled with 1,000 puzzle pieces, where she is working on a farm scene, sits a framed photo of her mom, Aggie, and her dad, Bonie, with a crucifix on the wall above it.

In March, Pieper will celebrate her 69th birthday, appreciating life after experiencing a health scare she never expected.

“I’m grateful to see another birthday and hope to see many more,” Pieper said. “I’m lucky to be alive.”

Sunday, Feb. 26, 1 p.m. – Bingo. Sacred Heart Church Basement, 106 Third Ave. NE, Freeport. For information call 320-845-2419. All proceeds will be donated to the Coborn Cancer Center as requested by local cancer patients

Monday, Feb. 27, 5:30-6:30 p.m. – Mental Health Support Group. CentraCare-Albany Clinic, 30 Railroad Ave., Albany. For information call the clinic at 320-845-2157.

Tuesday, Feb. 28, noon – Helping Hands Outreach Senior Dining Meal. Holdingford City Hall, 420 Main St., Holdingford. Programs are open to the public. Call 320-746-9960 for more information.

Tuesday, Feb. 28, 7 p.m. – Freeport City Council Meeting. Freeport City Hall, 125 E Main St., Freeport.

Wednesday, March 1, 6:30 p.m. – Albany City Council Meeting. Albany City Hall, 400 Railroad Ave., Albany.

Wednesday, March 1, 7 p.m. – AA Meetings. Back to Basic, at Tutti Frutti Marketplace, 38914 County Road 186, Sauk Centre. For more information, call 218-240- 1076. Big Book, Melrose City Center, 225 First St., NE, Melrose. For more information, call 320-241-3909.

Upcoming: Tuesday, March 7, 7 p.m. – Schanhaar-Otte Post 7050 and Auxiliary meetings Melrose American Legion clubroom, 265 County Road 173, Melrose.

Tuesday, March 14, 7 p.m. – Melrose American Legion Post 101 and Auxiliary meetings. Melrose American Legion clubroom, 265 County Road 173, Melrose.

Birth ANNOUNCEMENTS

Aurora Anne Meyer

Rebecca and Jeremy Meyer, of Sauk Centre, are happy to announce the birth of their daughter, Aurora Anne Meyer, at 9:35 p.m., Feb. 12, 2023, at CentraCare-Melrose Hospital in Melrose. She weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces and measured 19 inches long.

Big brother Jonah, 3, welcomed her home. Grandparents are Nicki and Hambone Hammond, of New Munich; Stan and Bridget

Tristan Gene Host

Evan and Heather Host, of Meire Grove, are happy to announce the birth of their son, Tristan Gene Host, at 11:36 a.m., Feb. 8, 2023, at CentraCare-Melrose Hospital in Melrose. He weighed 8 pounds, 14 ounces and measured 20.5 inches long.

Aurora Anne Meyer

Hasbrook, of Paynesville; and Tom and Linda Meyer of Grey Eagle. Great-grandparents are Norma and David Amiot, of Sauk Centre. Join

ALBANY

OUR SAVIOR’S LUTHERAN CHURCH 840 Lake Ave 320-845-2405 oursaviorslutheranalbany.org

Tristan Gene Host

FREEPORT

HARVEST CHURCH 338 Main St. W. 320-836-2997 harvestchurchfreeport.org

Jeanette D. Barth

Thomas “Tom”

Schlicht

Thomas “Tom” Schlicht, 84, of Maple Grove, has passed away.

He was preceded in death by son Alan Schlicht, parents Norbert and Hattie, sisters Vonnie and Dorsey and brother Jerry.

He is survived by wife Patricia; sons Michael (Cheryl) and Wayne (Sarah); grandchildren Eric, Kyle, Amanda, Nicholas, Gregory and Jeremy; other relatives and friends. A memorial service will be held later this spring.

David “Dave” Martin

David “Dave” Martin, 70, of Cold Spring, passed away at his home Feb. 14, 2023, surrounded by his family. A private service will be held later.

Dave was born May 6, 1952, in Minneapolis, to Frank and Gertrude Martin. He graduated from South High School and Dunwoody Institute with a degree in mechanics. He married Jean Waldron Dec. 20, 1986, and on that day, he gained two sons. Dave was a painter for Local 82 for many years, retiring in 2014, from Fransen Decorating. Dave loved pontoon rides, deer hunting, trips to Mexico and a nice cold beer floating in the lake with his grandkids.

He will be greatly missed by his wife of 36 years, Jean; sons Kevin Webb and Tony (Debbie) Waldron; grandchildren Gemma

James “Jim” E. Prodinsky

James “Jim” E. Prodinsky, 75, of Melrose, passed away unexpectedly Feb. 1, 2023, at CentraCare Hospital in Melrose.

Visitation was Feb. 16, at Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose followed by graveside prayers at St. Paul’s Cemetery in Sauk Centre.

Jim was born May 4, 1947, in Seattle, Washington, to James Prodinsky and Dorothy (Berscheid). When he was a child, his family moved back to Dorothy’s hometown of Grey Eagle where Jim attended school. After high school, Jim started at Jennie O Turkey Store where he continued to work for many years. On Feb. 20, 1971, he was united in marriage to Carol M. Walz at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre. Together, they raised a family of five boys in Sauk Centre and Melrose.

Jim was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and following the Minnesota Twins and Vikings.

Mary Woitalla

Mary Woitalla, 93, of Albany, formerly of St. Anna, passed away Feb. 11, 2023, at Mother of Mercy Campus of Care in Albany.

Mass of Christian Burial was Feb. 18 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Anna. Burial was in the parish cemetery

Mary was born May 16, 1929, in Holdingford, to Mike and Mary (Roske) Kotzer.

She married Alois Woitalla May 23, 1944, in St. Anna. She farmed with her husband and cooked at The Landing for 28 years. She helped prepare meals for funerals and bazaars with the church. Mary enjoyed gardening, canning and especially spending time with her grandchildren. She was a lifelong member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Anna and a lifelong resident of St. Anna.

Mary is survived by her children, Helen Rakotz of Albany, Donald (Toshi) Woitalla of Bremerton, Washington, MaryAnn Heitzman of Holdingford, David Woitalla of Albany, Joseph Woitalla of Albany, Diane (Steve) Lacey of Plymouth, Mark (Wendy) Woitalla of Northfield, Richard Woitalla of Albany, and Duane Woitalla of Avon;

Thomas “Tom” Schlicht www.kozlakradulovich.com

“A Celebration of Life” 763-416-0016

P-8-1P

David “Dave” Martin (James), Antony (Jess), Kendra, Keaton and Brady; great-grandchildren Jamie, Macy, Harry and Mathilda; brother Gary (Julie); nieces; nephews; and friends.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, brother Terry, sister Lynn, niece Rendena and daughter-in-law Julie Webb.

Arrangements were made with Miller-Carlin Funeral Home in Albany.

P-8-1B

Jeanette Dorothy Barth, 91, of Melrose, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family Feb. 18, 2023, at Tree of Life Assisted Living in New Munich.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with the Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

Jeanette Dorothy Petermeier was born Aug. 28, 1931, the daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Petermeier. She married in 1953 and had two children,

Jeanette D. Barth

Chuck and Cindy. She later moved to the family farm to raise her children. She farmed with her brother, Steven, for many years.

Jeanette loved her time spent with her family. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a loving, kind-hearted and compassionate mother, grandmother and caregiver. Quilting, gardening and cooking were some of her passions. She leaves behind her children, Chuck (Pam) Barth of Melrose and Cindy Bertram of St. Michael; grandchildren Chris, Amber, Jennifer, Tom and Nathan; great-grandchildren Jordan, Adley, Jackson, Cole, Clara, Wyatt, Ethan, Olivia and Nora; brothers Bill Petermeier

and Tom Petermeier; sisters Joanne (John) Welle and Betty LaFriniere; and sister-in-law Delores Petermeier. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Elizabeth Petermeier; sisters Marie Meyer, Eunice Casey, Lucille Petermeier, Carmella Worms and Lyola Vick-Jensen; brothers Joe Petermeier, Richard Petermeier, George Petermeier, Delbert Petermeier, Steven Petermeier and Tony Petermeier. Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.

Holdingford mayor resigns

Council has three options to fill position

BY HERMAN LENSING | STAFF WRITER

The Holdingford City Council accepted Mayor Sue Marstein’s resignation Feb. 13 during their monthly meeting at Holdingford City Hall.

Marstein was reelected mayor in November 2022. She ran unopposed and received 288 votes. There were 14 write-ins.

Council member Eric Berscheid is acting mayor until the vacancy is filled.

To fill the position a special election could be held but is not needed because there are less than two years remaining on the former mayor’s term; a member of the council could be appointed, creating a vacancy on the council that may have to be filled; or an eligible Holdingford resident could be appointed. No action to fill the position was taken at the meeting. The council will discuss its options.

Berscheid attended the meeting electronically since he was out of town and was visible and in communication with the council at all times via a monitor in the council room. Councilor Tim Winter, also, was not

James “Jim” E. Prodinsky

Survivors include his sons, Brian Prodinsky of Sauk Centre, Joe (Amy) Prodinsky of Sartell, Jason (Emily) Prodinsky of St. Cloud, Mike Prodinsky of Melrose, and Kevin Prodinsky of Rochester; sisters Jane (Dale) Ilgen and Carol Bhagroo; and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Prodinsky and Dorothy Jacobs; wife Carol Prodinsky; and brother Martin “Marty” Prodinsky.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.

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able to attend. Berscheid appointed council member Jayme Opatz to conduct the meeting.

When answering a question about the reason for Marstein’s resignation, Berscheid referred to the following email sent to the city Feb. 13 prior to the meeting.

Marstein wrote, “It has been my pleasure to work for the residents of Holdingford as a council member and mayor. Consider this my resignation as mayor of Holdingford, effective immediately. It has become clear to me that I can no longer be effective in working with the current council.”

Berscheid did not elaborate on the email but did say, “There were some things we did not see eye-toeye on.” The Star Post reached out to Marstein requesting a comment on her decision to resign, but there was no response.

In other council news:

– During the Feb. 13 meeting, the council approved minutes of the Jan. 10 emergency meeting called after Holdingford Municipal Liquor Store Manager Season Lowe resigned. No action was taken, but it was recommended to have a meeting with Lowe and discuss what could be done to retain her.

At the February regular meeting, Opatz, the council liaison to the liquor store, reported profits of over $11,000 for January. He is the temporary store manager.

– City clerk Nicky Lahr was instructed by the council to get information on new accounting software and also quotes for outsourcing payroll.

– Heard a concern from director Denise Leahy, of Helping Hands Outreach, a Holdingford program for older adults and adults with disabilities in need of support to remain in their homes, that the rental rates were too high. The council advised her to let them know what rate they would be able to afford and present it at the next meeting or submit a letter. They are currently billed the reduced non-profit rental rate.

– Fire chief Keith Hommerding reported firefighters responded to 21 calls in January, 16 that were medical calls. Most of the calls, 11, were in Holdingford. The council approved a request to purchase a new truck.

– City engineer Scott Lange reported December tests had not found any additional nickel in city water.

– Approved pay grade and title changes for some maintenance personnel.

Shepherd in faith

Neary installed as 10th bishop of Diocese of St. Cloud

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

After over three years of waiting, the Diocese of St. Cloud welcomed its new shepherd, Bishop Patrick Neary. Neary succeeds Bishop Donald Kettler, who submitted his resignation in November 2019 at the age of 75.

Mary Woitalla

daughter-in-law Barb Woitalla of Avon; 28 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters Angie Nierenhausen of St. Joseph, Annie Volkers of Sauk Rapids, Susie Hills of Sauk Rapids, John Kotzer of Albany, and Jim Kotzer of St. Cloud.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mike and Mary (Roske) Kotzer; husband Alois; sons Raymond and John; son-in-law James Rakotz; daughter-in-law Bonnie; grandchildren David Heitman, Justin Woitalla and Steven Woitalla; brothers and sisters Irene Daucette, Jerome Kotzer, Lorraine Guzy, Victor Kotzer, Marvene Marsolek, Phyllis Kotzer, Joyce Buemer and Mike Kotzer. Arrangements were made with Miller-Carlin Funeral Home in Albany.

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The rainy weather outside the packed Cathedral of St. Mary in St. Cloud could not dampen the smile of the new bishop during his Feb. 14 episcopal ordination and installation Mass. The smile was shared by the concelebrating archbishops, bishops, priests and deacons, as well as the congregation of religious and laity, and family and friends – some coming from as far away as Oregon, Peru and Africa.

The principal ordaining bishop for the Mass was Archbishop Bernard Hebda of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. The co-ordaining bishops were Bishop William Wack of the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee, Florida, and Auxiliary Bishop Peter Smith of the Archdiocese of Portland, Oregon.

“It is a wonderful sign of the Father’s love for the church that he would be providing such a fine shepherd for this diocese with just the right gifts to continue the work of spreading

Bishop

the Gospel that has long been central to the Diocese of St. Cloud,” Hebda said.

As the 10th bishop of the diocese, Neary will be adopting the motto of his order, the Congregation of Holy Cross: “Ave Crux, Spes Unica” –“Hail the Cross, Our Only Hope.”

An Indiana native who comes to Minnesota from Holy Redeemer Parish in Portland, Oregon, Neary has enjoyed getting to know his congregation. He attended the Holy Spirit Annual Breakfast Feb. 12, and although he wore his pectoral cross, the sign of his episcopacy, he did not tell anyone who he was.

“I just sat down at different tables and got to meet peo-

ple of all ages,” said Neary in an interview with Star Publications following the solemn vespers service Feb. 13 at the Cathedral of St. Mary in St. Cloud. “They were so warm and welcoming. This is what I love, just getting to know the flock and the people, so that was a great thing.”

Neary is also eager to get to know the priests, deacons and religious of the diocese. He looks forward to celebrating the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Orders.

Some of the issues Neary plans to focus on include the role of women in the church as well as gay and lesbian Catholics and how the church can help people feel loved and welcomed. As for the

problems the diocese has had with sexual abuse in the clergy, Neary wants to reach out with compassion and provide the resources needed to heal.

“I read the synodal report the diocese put out, which was superb, and they identified the strengths and weaknesses of the diocese and the church in general,” Neary said. “Bishop Kettler said, ‘Listen to those groups of people who feel alienated or judged or dismissed and welcome them.’”

As part of this process, Neary wants to bring people together and continue the collaboration between the clergy, religious and laity.

“The church does talk about the sense of the faithful, and it’s an important thing in the church; the Holy Spirit speaks to the faithful,” Neary said. “Pope Francis, by initiating the synodal process, opened a channel of communication and a font of wisdom I don’t think we were used to tapping into. Even in my parish in Portland, we have a very multi-racial student body, and we were able to have a listening session along the synod model. All the parents came, and we learned so much.”

Neary thanks the people he has met in the Diocese of St. Cloud for their warmth and receptivity to their new bishop.

“I’ve received so many cards of support, love and prayer, and I felt so welcomed and loved that I feel uplifted by that,” Neary said. “I’m grateful Christ called me to this. The faithful people of this diocese, they’re just so grounded and humble and genuine, so I think it’s going to be a good fit for me.”

PHOTO BY BEN SONNEK

Patrick Neary blesses the people at the end of his episcopal ordination and installation Mass Feb. 14 in the Cathedral of St. Mary in St. Cloud. The principal ordaining bishop for the Mass was Archbishop Bernard Hebda, of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.

News BRIEFS

Ice fishing fun with ‘fin’tastic grumpy old men

Thirty years ago the Minnesota-made movie “Grumpy Old Men,” starring Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau, debuted in theaters, and the city of Wabasha is celebrating this milestone this weekend.

In Melrose, we had our own grumpy old men or at least avid fishermen – Rich Klasen, Robbie Hinnenkamp, Bob Hollermann, Gilbert Klaphake, Cletus Scherer, Alcuin Stroeing and my dad, Romie Moorman. It was a nickname given to some of them by Pete Linsner, an import to the area.

“The first time Pete came in the café, he was with his brother and they were heading to see his cabin (on Birch Lake) that he bought site-unseen,” Joyce Winter, owner of the café, told me Feb. 17.

On Feb. 17, Pete recalled that April day in 1996 when he and his brother drove 500 miles from Chicago, and he wanted to stop at a “greasy spoon” to eat and chose Joyce’s Café, before heading to his cabin. Pulling his boat with his bird and dog in tow, they drove up to the cabin and, opening the car door, they were greeted by an agriculture smell that his brother was not too fond of, but Pete didn’t mind.

“I’m still there today, 27 years later, and I love it,” he said.

Pete met a few of these fishermen when they were at Joyce’s Café – their denizen (hangout) as Pete called the café – eating breakfast and shaking dice before fishing.

“I introduced Pete to them grumpy old men,” Joyce said.

They built a fishing bond and before long Pete became an enthusiastic participant in their fishing excursions, fondly calling them his grumpy old men. Pete called himself a grumpy in training.

“The only reason they took me along fishing was so they had a chance to catch more fish,” Pete said, adding, “Those were some of the best times.”

Of course, those were some crazy times too. Like when Bob’s eyeglasses fell down a fishing hole.

Then there was the time they were driving home in two trucks after fishing on a lake near Alexandria, and the roads were pretty slick, Pete said.

“Gilbert was driving and his truck went into the ditch, because he wasn’t paying attention and he missed a curve. I was driving Cletus’ truck, with Cletus in the middle and Robbie on the door side, and he kept saying, ‘We’re gonna

roll it. We’re gonna roll it,’” Pete said.

Thankfully, Pete didn’t roll the truck and they all made it home safe and sound.

One day-fishing trip, around 20 years ago, ended with my dad in the Little Falls hospital. Dad, Rich, Robbie, Gilbert and Pete were fishing on this below zero January morning on a lake north of Melrose a few hours.

According to Pete, they were fishing in their own clams (collapsible fish houses). They had their limits and were packing up and kept calling for Romie and he didn’t answer.

“Robbie went over there and pulled up Romie’s clam, and he was slumped over. So we grabbed all the fish and put our clams in the back of a truck, and we put Romie in Gilbert’s truck and drove as fast as we could to the Little Falls hospital,” Pete said.

Just imagine the commotion, mixed with concern for their fishing buddy, that occurred.

They used what Pete called a walky-talky-like cell phone to call 911.

“Halfway there we met the ambulance, and they put Romie in there and drove him to the hospital. Me, Robbie, Rich and Gilbert, we took all the fish in the buckets we caught and stuffed ‘em all in a snowbank because we didn’t know if we were over the limit,” Pete said.

Imagine that, these guys catching too many fish? Like Dad always said, he never did anything wrong when it came to fishing. Of course, that’s because he never got caught.

Mom received a call and we drove to the hospital to see Dad. It ended up he had a slight heart attack – or maybe he succumbed to propane tank fumes – but he survived. I guess God figured he had more fishing to do.

More than 25 years later, those are fond memories for Pete, who learned patience from his unforgettable fishing buddies.

“Those guys could catch fish anywhere,” he said.

Pete admits to getting choked up when thinking about all of these good times, and said it was the best move he ever made moving to the area.

“I miss them all and the many, many fish fries we had,” he said. Ice fishing fun with “fin”tastic grumpy old men can’t be beat.

Chickens brought settlers together

Chickens have long been a part of people’s lives. There are some who believe it is the first or at least the second animal to be domesticated by humans. Some sources say the dog was first. Raising chickens is widespread and there are very few cultures that have not had chickens. According to one source, it is the most numerous bird in the world.

The chicken’s association with people has been in a variety of ways. It is used as a food source for its meat and eggs, some breeds were raised for ornamentations in lawns, feathers were used in decorating, and chickens were a source of entertainment.

Chickens figure in stories of all kinds. The Greeks wrote of their fighting spirit, the Romans got together for chicken-based deviation purposes, and the Chinese attribute knowledge, benevolence and credibility to the rooster. Christianity made the rooster crow a part of history with its crowing at St. Peter’s betrayal. Some religions tell how crowing roosters have chased away evil spirits. All cultures talk of the roosters crowing at dawn.

Besides being a food source, they were also considered good creatures to help with insect and rodent control.

No matter how they were used, the chicken has a long tradition of bringing people together, which continues today. More than one social gathering, family meal or celebration has included a chicken dinner or breakfast with scrambled eggs.

It was not those elements of the chicken which helped

some early settlers near Farming to get together with their neighbors. It was just the behavior of the chickens.

When Farming’s St. Catherine Catholic Parish celebrated its centennial in 1979, Marilyn Brinkman and Marcelline Schleper compiled stories and a history into “Centennial: St. Catherine’s Parish, Farming, Minnesota.”

The book gives an overview of the settling and development of the Farming area following the American Civil War. The book records that as the settlers from various parts came there, they found a heavily wooded area.

Those woods provided wood for families, challenged them in farming the land and to some degree isolated settlers from each other. It was chickens, according to their history, which brought people through the woods to meet their neighbors.

The authors couldn’t really find which settler first noticed the chickens. According to the book, a few families claimed the honor. What happened though is pretty well agreed upon.

According to stories, it was a quiet afternoon when roosters were heard crowing north of the known settlement area. Because chickens were not wild in the area, they knew there had to be people in that direction. Some followed the sounds and came across another group of recently arrived immigrants. In time, they also became part of the Farming area and provided one more example of chickens bringing people together.

Letters to the editor accepted

Irrigators clinic March 6 in Greenwald WAITE PARK – Irrigators mark your calendars to attend the annual Irrigators Clinic Monday, March 6, at the Greenwald Pub, 310 First Ave. N., Greenwald. This event will be of interest to anyone who is engaged in irrigation on agricultural lands and interested in soil health, farm economics and research.

A lineup of speakers has committed to participating in the event representing University of Minnesota, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Modern Farm Equipment and Minnesota State Agricultural Center of Excellence.

Topics to be addressed during the day includes Managing Nitrogen for Corn Production in Irrigated Sands, Irrigation RCPP to Implement Innovative Irrigation Practices, Local Perspective on Cropland Irrigation Practices, Lesson Learned from Irrigation Management Research in Minnesota, Soil Moisture Sensors for Irrigation Systems, Crop Response to Extreme Temperature and Water, and Conservation Economics on Minnesota Farms.

Event registration begins at 9 a.m., with the program starting at 9:15 a.m. and concluding at 3 p.m. The cost includes lunch. Registration is requested by Monday, Feb. 27, and can be completed online at https://arcg.is/0L8Db8.

The event is organized by Stearns, Pope, Swift, Kandiyohi and Douglas soil and water conservation districts and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

For more information contact Stearns County SWCD office at 320-251-7800 ext. 3 or visi www.stearnscountyswcd.net/irrigatorsclinic.

Input sought to guide future of Stearns County’s park system

ST. CLOUD – Stearns County is seeking the public’s input on a plan that will guide the future of the county’s parks, trails and recreation system for the next 10 to 20 years.

A brief survey asks about awareness and usage of the county’s parks and trails and asks for ideas for future investments. Responses will guide activities and recreational programs to be offered in the parks in years to come. The survey is the beginning of what will be a 10-month process to develop a master plan for the county’s outdoor recreation system.

Input from residents, visitors, and business owners is an important component to master planning. The goal is to develop a plan with a foundation in Stearns County residents’ needs and desires for parks and recreation services. The last plan was developed in 1989 and included recommendations for the development of the Lake Wobegon Trail and Quarry Park.

The existing system of parks, trails and open space includes 19 unique park and trail recreation facilities, ranging from boat landings to regional and local trails, to significant regional parks, including the following:

–Two signature recreation facilities: Quarry Park and Nature Preserve and Lake Wobegon Trail.

– Two trails: Beaver Island Trail and Dairyland Trail/Soo Line Rail Corridor.

– Seven special feature parks: Upper Spunk Lake County Park, Fairhaven Mill Park, Lake Sylvia Wayside, St. Martin Canoe Access, Heims Mill Canoe Access, Miller Landing and Clearwater River Canoe Access.

– Eight county parks: Warner Lake County Park, Mississippi River County Park, Oak Township Park, Lake Koronis Regional Park, Kraemer Lake Park, Rockville Park, Spring Hill County Park and Two Rivers Lake Park. Visit surveymonkey.com/r/StearnsParksSpring2023 to take the survey. The plan is expected to be complete later this year.

DINING MENU

Pondview Estates, 334 Golfview Drive, Albany 320-845-4070 – Feb. 22-24

Wednesday:Fish sticks, baked beans, macaroni salad, banana and dinner roll.

Thursday: Honey mustard pork loin, cheesy hashbrowns, peas, cinnamon apples and roll.

Friday: Breaded Pollock baked potato, steamed broccoli, peaches and oatmeal raisin cookie.

Menu items are subject

Congregate

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change.

which have a deadline of 10 a.m. Monday. The deadline for advertisements in The Star Post is 5 p.m. Friday, and in the Shopper and Classy Canary it is noon Wednesday.

Letters Letters to the editor are welcomed. Letters must be signed with first and last name and include address and phone number. Letters are limited 350 words. See political letters to the editor policy for additional guidelines.

Corrections/Clarifications

The Star Post strives for accuracy. If you would like to report a factual error, call 320-845-2700.

ISSN: Print: 2834-5916 Online: 2834-5924

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Melrose gymnasts spectacular at sections,

send trio to stat send to state

Individual meet

Feb. 25 in St. Paul

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

The Melrose Area Lady Dutchmen gymnastics team will be part of the final day of the season.

Three members of the squad – senior Courtney Althaus, sophomore Maria Hinnenkamp and eighth grader Josie Eveslage –qualified for the Class A gymnastics state meet after the Section 8A championships Feb. 18 at Fergus Falls Community Center in Fergus Falls.

To qualify for Minnesota State High School League Girls Gymnastics State Meet, a gymnast had to be either one of the top three all-around finishers or one of the top three performers on a routine.

Althaus is making her fifth state tournament appearance, having first competed there as an eighth grader. She has been the premier gymnast on the team for the past few years.

“She has upper-level skills and they are clean,” said Katie Masog, head coach. “She is confident and

and on beam, respectively.

strong in all events.”

Medaling in all routines at the section meet earned Althaus all-around runner-up honors. She was second on floor and bars, third on beam and fifth on vault.

“My favorite was the

fl

oor,” she said. “I saw my teammates dancing and started getting excited.”

Hinnenkamp is also returning to state. Last year, she competed on the beam and vault. This season, she will be competing on the

bars. “Maria has been working the bars like no other,” Masog said. “This month, we put in new combinations and it paid off.”

Dancers bring fire routine full circle

Holdingford finishes fourth in high kick at state

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

The Holdingford Huskers’ fire department-inspired high kick dance routine earned the squad fourth place at the Minnesota State High School League Class A Dance Team State Tournament Feb. 18 at Target Center in Minneapolis.

Earning 527 of a possible 800 points, Holdingford received 22 ranks from the eight judges. Its best ranking was a third and it received two sixth-place ranks. At the state competition, the top rank and two lowest ranks are removed from the scoring total.

The scoring was close, with two points separating champion Cathedral and third-place Yellow Medicine East. Lac qui Parle Valley/ Dawson-Boyd finished as runner-up.

Holdingford dancers Jada Mosey (from left), Aubrie Opatz, Paige Fiedler, Hannah

Supan and Jadielyn Rudolph congratulate each other on qualifying for the Minnesota State High School League Class A Dance Team State Tournament high kick finals Feb. 18 at Target Center in Minneapolis. The team finished fourth overall.

The Huskers were one of six teams to qualify for the finals from the preliminary round, taking fourth in that round with 22.5 ranks.

LQPV-DB was the preliminary champion with five

ranks.

In both rounds, Holdingford received high marks for the difficulty of its kicks and for its visual effectiveness. Its best rank in the preliminary round was a fourth Dance page 3B

in the preliminary round, and it received two sixthplace ranks.

Dynamite

What do you like most about being in FFA? Being part of a group and teaching others about FFA. Being a leader, it is cool to see the impact on other people.

What is your most memorable experience with FFA? Going to the state convention last year. A whole bunch of us got back to the hotel after a meeting and ordered a pizza a 6 p.m., and it didn’t come until 1 a.m.

What other activities are you involved in at school? Football, trap shooting and last year the super-mileage club.

What is something you’ve learned in class recently?

How to polish my vehicle and make it look nice again in autobody class.

What are you looking forward to the most during the school year? The state FFA convention. I get my

state degree this year.

How do you try to make a difference at school? By being happy and trying to pass that on to others. I want to have a positive influence on everybody I see.

What teacher has impacted your education the most? Mr. (Adam) Rushmeyer is a down to earth guy. He’s there specifically to teach us and make sure there is a positive influence. He makes sure it is not a cookie cutter program and addresses everybody’s needs.

What is your favorite restaurant and the meal you order? Texas Roadhouse. I like the 25-ounce steak with mashed potatoes and buttered corn.

Parents: Gary and Ashley

Courtney Althaus (left) embraces Katie Masog, Melrose gymnastics head coach , following Althaus’ bronze medal performance on the beam at the Section 8A championships Feb. 18 at Fergus Falls Community Center in Fergus Falls. The routine helped Althaus qualify for state as an allaround.

PHOTOS BY HERMAN LENSING

Melrose state qualifiers Maria Hinnenkamp (from left), Courtney Althaus and Josie Eveslage wear their section medals at the Section 8A championships Feb. 18 at Fergus Falls Community Center in Fergus Falls. Althaus, Hinnenkamp and Eveslage will compete as an all-around, on bars

Gymnastics page 3B

PHOTOS BY TOM FENTON

Kuklok, Annie

(Right) Maiya Swenson moves through her routine during the Minnesota State High School League Class A Dance Team State Tournament jazz preliminaries Feb. 17 at Target Center in Minneapolis. The Huskers jazz team finished in ninth place.

Now hiring!

Setting a new bar

Albany JV gymnastics completes successful inaugural season

BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER

For several years, the Albany Area Gymnastics Association had worked diligently to translate an upward trend in interest in

gymnastics into an Albany Area Schools activity.

Finally, after developing traction over the summer, Albany added a junior varsity gymnastics program to its ever-growing list of athletic opportunities for the 202223 winter season. This culminated in a nine-member squad, comprised entirely of seventh and eighth graders, embarking on an unforgettable inaugural campaign.

“You could tell the improvements from the first meet versus our last meet,” said Dana Cartier, head coach. “I feel like the girls felt more comfortable and stronger, and their routines definitely got better over the season.”

All of the roster had previous gymnastics experience, either in Albany or elsewhere, but as members of associations where practices were held once or twice a week. As a member of a JV program, these same gymnasts now had to adjust to an every-day regimen. However, through an earnest mindset, this became a

positive. “Now, it’s more fastpaced and moving,” said Candace Berckes, co-captain. “Being able to practice every night after school, you just get so much more experience, so many more memories.”

The Huskies participated in six meets, beginning with Little Falls Dec. 9 and ending with a crosstown showing against Melrose Jan. 30. Interlaced with learning how to compete at a JV-caliber level was understanding each member’s strengths and role within the roster. Some girls brought lightheartedness, some brought leadership, and all of them seemed to excel in their unique roles or routines.

“You want everybody to be good at every single event, but every gymnastics team is different,” said Grace Grabmeier, co-captain. “We came together and told each other we need to be working on different events.”

Constant attention to detail and building endurance led to several fantastic moments across the winter season. Leah Alvord was Albany’s leading scorer in the all-around and every routine, but new meets

saw different figures rise to the top. Berckes paced the Huskies in the floor event in Monticello Dec. 12, Addison Brickweg led the way in the beam in Little Falls, and Amelia Vogel, Ella Becker, Brickweg, Grabmeier and Berckes all totaled the highest vault scores at a certain point in time.

“A lot of them have added new skills since the first meet, whether it be a back tuck on floor, round-up on beam, those little things,” Cartier said. “They’ve come a long way.”

Following the final performance of the season, a 119.85-point night against the same school in Melrose where Cartier won state titles as a gymnast herself, the Huskies celebrated with a joyous team dinner. This squad, through all of its hardships adjusting to being a part of a new hierarchy, proved that gymnastics in the town of Albany could sustain a high level of competition, potentially paving the way for a varsity program in the near future.

“I feel like it’s going to expand really far,” Berckes said. “I’m super excited for a varsity team, because I feel we could actually do really well, and we could be a good, strong competitor.”

In culinary arts class, I learned how to make homemade caramel rolls.

What is your favorite part about basketball?

The bus rides back from away games after we win.

What is your most memorable moment playing basketball? Defeating Albany in the basketball playoffs, even though we were not expected to win the game.

What other activities are you involved in at Holdingford High School? Baseball. I played football until I

encountered a severe concussion my freshman year.

What is your favorite memory from elementary school? Going on a field trip to Camp Ripley.

How do you try to make a difference at school? I try to be friends with everyone and also pick up trash on the grounds.

What is something you’ve learned in class recently?

Tell us something about yourself most people do not know? Unfortunately, I have encountered several injuries, including seven broken bones total, that have prevented me from playing a full year of sports since seventh grade. My most recent injury happened this year while playing basketball. I dislocated my kneecap, which caused me to fracture my femur, patella and partially tear my meniscus. This injury sidelined me the remainder of this year’s basketball season.

What is your dream job? I’m hoping to get a degree in business from St. Cloud State University.  I would like to own my own business some day.

What do you enjoy most about being part of the basketball team? Hanging out with the boys and the long bus rides.

What is your favorite thing to do on the court? Sitting in the corner and shooting 3-pointers.

What other activities are you involved in at school? Baseball.

Why is it important for you to be involved in school activities? You develop friendships.

What is something you are proud you accomplished so far during the school year, and what is one of your goals in the remainder of the year?

I am proud of gaining academic scholarships and passing all of my classes with good grades. One of my goals is to go to state for basketball.

What is one piece of advice you would give underclassmen to help them excel in academics or athletics? Enjoy what you’re doing in the moment because everything ends in a hurry.

What are you thankful for today? My family and friends.

What are three words that describe your personality? Determined, honest and intelligent.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Albany Huskies junior varsity gymnastics team consists of Grace Grabmeier (front, from left), Kaylynne Kolles, Ella Becker, Amelia Vogel, Addison Brickweg and Indianna Gaebel; (back, from left) head coach Dana Cartier, Candace Berckes, Kaydence Finken, Leah Alvord and assistant coach Aaron Ahrndt. The gymnasts succeeded in acclimating to a JV schedule while learning

HOLDING TOWNSHIP NOTICE

Notice is hereby given to the qualified voters of Holding Township, County of Stearns, State of Minnesota, that the Annual Election of Town Officers, Board of Canvass, and Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at the Holding Town Hall. In case of inclement weather, Annual Election, Board of Canvass Meeting and Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, same time, same place.

The Annual Election polls will open at 2 P.M. and close at 8 P.M. to elect one supervisor and one treasurer.

Board of Canvass will meet at 8:15 P.M. to canvass the results of the election.

Annual Meeting will commence at 8:30 P.M.

Annual Election, Board of Canvass Meeting & Annual Meeting will be held at the Holding Town Hall, 790 4th Street West, Holdingford, Minnesota 56340.

The Public Accuracy Testing on the voting machines will be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 9:00 P.M. at Holding Town Hall.

Julianne Ebnet, Clerk P-8-2B

ALBANY TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING, ELECTION, AND TESTING OF EQUIPMENT

Notice is hereby given to the qualified voters of Albany Township, County of Stearns, State of Minnesota, that the Annual Election of Town Officers and the Annual Town Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 14, 2023. In case of inclement weather, the meeting and election may be postponed until the third Tuesday, March 21, 2023, and if inclement weather also postpones the election and meeting on the third Tuesday, they shall be held on the fourth Tuesday, March 28, 2023. Please listen to KASM (1150 AM) radio station for changes.

The Public Accuracy Test of the voting equipment will be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 5 P.M. This test is open to the General Public.

Absentee Balloting-The Clerk’s office, 20929 330 Street, Albany, will be open Saturday, March 11, 2023 from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. to accept absentee ballots.

Annual Election-Will be held on March 14, 2023; The Election Poll hours will be open from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M., at which time the voters will elect a town supervisor for a three-year term. Board of Canvass will meet at 8:15 P.M. to canvass the results of the election.

The Annual Meeting will commence at 8:30 P.M. to conduct all necessary business prescribed by law.

All events (except Absentee Balloting) will be held at the City of Albany City Hall, 400 Railroad Avenue, Albany MN Diane Noll Clerk/Treasurer albanytwp@albanytel.com Albany Township Published in the Star Post Wednesday February 22 and March 1, 2023. P-8-1B

NOTICE

DRAINAGE AND UTILITY EASEMENT VACATION

CITY OF ALBANY, MINNESOTA

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the City Council of Albany, MN, at 400 Railroad Avenue, the Albany City Hall, at 6:30 o’clock in the evening or as soon as thereafter on March 1, 2023, to hear all persons present upon action taken by the City Council on a request by Thomas and Catherine Flint, 1185 Deerberry Circle, Albany, MN, to vacate the drainage and utility easement as dedicated in The Highlands Three plat, according to the recorded plat thereof, Stearns County, Minnesota, bounded as follows:

EASEMENT VACATION DESCRIPTION

A 5.00-foot drainage and utility easement over, under and across the southeasterly 5.00 feet of Lot 1, Block 2, THE HIGHLANDS THREE, according to the recorded plat thereof Stearns

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN: That default has occurred in the conditions of the following described mortgage: DATE OF MORTGAGE: September 28, 2004 ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $105,255.00 MORTGAGOR(S): Renee

L. Jansky and George N. Jansky Jr., wife and husband

MORTGAGEE: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as nominee for GSF Mortgage Corporation TRANSACTION

AGENT: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc, MIN#: 100310900000022214

SERVICER: Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC

LENDER: GSF Mortgage Corporation DATE AND PLACE OF FILING: Stearns County Minnesota, Recorder, on October 18, 2004, as Document No. 1130341. ASSIGNED TO: Chase Home Finance LLC by an Assignment of Mortgage

Unadopted Minutes REGULAR SCHOOL BOARD MEETING Albany Area Schools – ISD #745 District Office Board Room February 8, 2023

County, Minnesota, as measured perpendicular to, contiguous and parallel with the southeasterly line of said Lot 1 and the northwesterly 5.00 feet of Lot 2, said Block 2, as measured perpendicular to, contiguous and parallel with the northwesterly line of said Lot 2, less and except the northeasterly 10.00 feet of said Lots 1 and 2, as measured perpendicular to, contiguous and parallel with the northeasterly lines of said Lots 1 and 2 and the westerly 5.00 feet of said Lots 1 and 2 being as measured perpendicular to, contiguous and parallel with the westerly line of said Lots 1 and 2.

Dated this 10th day of February, 2023. Tom Schneider Clerk/Adm.

Published in the Star Post on February 15th and February 22, 2023.

P-7-2B

1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order by Chair Kreuzer at 6:00 p.m.

2. Roll Call

Present: Kreuzer, Hansen, Sand, Sands, Dirkes, Rueter Late: Absent: Carbajal

3. Public Forum

4. Agenda – Additions and Deletions

5. Approvals

5.1 Previous Meeting Minutes

Motion by Sands, seconded by Sand, to approve the January 4, 2023, Reorganization/Regular Meeting minutes and the January 25, 2023, Work Session minutes. Supported by all present.

5.2 Cash Flow Reports - December 2022

Motion by Sand, seconded by Sands, to approve the December 2022 Cash Flow Reports as presented. Supported by all present.

5.3 Acceptance of Gifts and Donations

Member Rueter introduced the Resolution Accepting Donations and was seconded by Member Sands.

The School Board of Albany Area Schools, ISD 745, gratefully accepts the following donations as identified below: Donor Item Designated Purpose (if any)

Jaycees

Jaycees

Community Education - Archery

BEAT Childrens Series

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

dated 03/24/2009 and recorded on 04/01/2009 as Document No. 1282801. JP Morgan Chase Bank, National Association by an Assignment of Mortgage dated 03/16/2013 and recorded on 03/29/2013 as Document No. A1394402. Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, as trustee of Stanwich Mortgage Loan Trust F by an Assignment of Mortgage dated 08/21/2020 and recorded on 08/28/2020 as Document No. A1578706.

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF

PROPERTY: The North OneHalf of Lot 25 and all of Lot 26 and the Southerly 10 feet of Lot 27 in Block 6 of Pan Park Addition to St. Cloud, Minnesota, according to the plat thereof on file and of record in the office of the county recorder, Stearns County, Minnesota.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1036 N 38TH AVE, ST CLOUD, MN 56303 PROPERTY I.D: 82.49456.0000 COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Stearns THE AMOUNT CLAIMED TO BE DUE ON THE MORTGAGE ON THE DATE OF THE

NOTICE: Two Hundred Forty Thousand Six Hundred Two and 67/100 ($240,602.67) THAT no action or proceeding has been instituted at law to recover the debt secured by said

Three Resignations/Retirements:

mortgage, or any part thereof; that there has been compliance with all pre-foreclosure notice and acceleration requirements of said mortgage, and/or applicable statutes; PURSUANT, to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows: DATE AND TIME OF SALE: 10:00AM on March 30, 2023 PLACE OF SALE: Stearns County Sheriff, Law Enforcement Center, Room S136 Civil Division, 807 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, MN 56303 to pay the debt then secured by said mortgage and taxes, if any actually paid by the mortgagee, on the premises and the costs and disbursements allowed by law. The time allowed by law for redemption by said mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns is 6.00 months from the date of sale. If Mortgage is not reinstated under Minn. Stat. Section580.30 or the property is not redeemed under Minn. Stat. Section580.23, the Mortgagor must vacate the property on or before 11:59 p.m. on September 30, 2023, or the next business day if September 30, 2023 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday. “THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW

FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.” Dated: February 8, 2023 Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, as trustee of Stanwich Mortgage Loan Trust F Randall S. Miller and Associates, PLLC Attorneys for Assignee of Mortgage/ Mortgagee Edinburgh Executive Office Center, 8525 Edinbrook Crossing North Suite #210 Brooklyn Park, MN 55443 Phone: 952-232-0052 Our File No. 21MN00075-1 A-4773006 02/08/2023, 02/15/2023, 02/22/2023, 03/01/2023, 03/08/2023, 03/15/2023 P-6-6B

Brooke Kingston - ALE Paraprofessional, effective January 3, 2023

Julie Bieber - ALE Special Education Teacher, effective May 30, 2023

Brenda VonWahlde - AHS Administrative Assistant, effective January 25, 2023

Miranda Beutz - ALE Kids Company Site Leader, effective February 3, 2023

Ann Ressler- JV Girls Softball Coach, effective January 25, 2023

Mikayla Luethmers - Kids Company Assistant, effective February 11, 2023

Jessica Czech - ALE Building Maintenance Assistant/Custodian, effective January 30, 2023

Karla Schneider - Head Girls’ Swim Coach, effective November 20, 2022

Andrew Peterson - AHS/AMS Choir Teacher, effective June 1, 2023

Leah VanOverbeke - ALE Paraprofessional, effective February 15, 2023

Request for Severance:

Julie Bieber - AFT

The following checks were issued in paying claims: Wire transfers and checks 104099 –104419.

The following voted in favor of: All present

And the following voted against: None

Absent: Carbajal

Where upon said resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.

6. Consent Agenda

AFT Payroll Change Request:

Amy Schneider - BA/BS+45 Step 7 to MA Step 7

Isaac Skalsky - BA/BS+15 Step 5 to BA/BS+30 Step 5

Samantha Tate - BA/BS+30 Step 2 to MA Step 2

Shanna Wahlstrand - BA/BS+15 Step 10 to BA/BS+30 Step 10

AESP:

Rineke van de Ree - AVE PreK Paraprofessional

Doug Gerads - Transportation & Grounds Assistant

Robert Power - AVE Paraprofessional

Holly Rolfes - AHS Administrative Assistant

Kristina Hemmesch - AVE PreK Paraprofessional

AESP Payroll Change Request:

Jeff Thelen - AHS/AMS Head of Building Maintenance - 5 days per week to 3 days per week

SpEd Differential:

Loni Price

At Will:

Lisa Stangler - Concessions Coordinator

Kids Company:

Mitchell Bartell

Coaching/Advisors:

Samantha Tate - Co-Head Girls Soccer Coach

Peter Maas - Co-Head Girls Soccer Coach

Community Education:

HSP/Fundamentals - Aaron Schwenzfeier, Makaela Zierden

BECC Attendant - Meghan Shannon, Olivia Kompelien, Luke Barrow

Pickleball Instructor - Denise Croatt

Middle School Play Attendant - Tami Goehring

LOA:

8.1 Enrollment Report

8.2 American Indian Parent Advisory Committee

Laura Roelike and committee members who are families of the district presented the AIPAC Annual Compliance Overview. The AIPAC Committee ensures all needs are being met by the district. Motion to approve the AIPAC resolution was made by Hansen and seconded by Dirkes. Supported by all present.

8.3 2023-2024 School District Calendar

Motion by Dirkes, seconded by Sand, to approve the 2023-2024 School District calendar. Supported by all present.

8.4 Weather Days Make-Up Plans

The board approved two additional professional development days for teachers on May 30 and 31, which will serve as make-up days for the two snow days. The teachers’ last day will be June 1. Students will not make up the days.

8.5 Minnesota State High School League Foundation Form B2 Resolution

Member Rueter introduced the MSHSL Form B2 Resolution and was seconded by Member Sands. The following voted in favor of: All present

And the following voted against: None

Where upon said resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.

8.6 High School Registration Manual

Principal Bubna presented the high school registration manual. He informed the board there was a change in CTE credit requirements for 9th graders which allows more options for students. Motion by Hansen, seconded by Sands, to approve the 2023-24 registration manual as presented. Supported by all present.

8.7 COVID Plan Update

The district COVID plan was reviewed, and the district is up to date on the minimal requirements by the Minnesota Department of Education. Motion by Hansen, seconded by Rueter to approve the updated COVID plan. Supported by all present.

8.8 Abatement Bid Approval

Bids were presented for asbestos abatement and removal at the Albany Area Early Learning Center. EnviroBate Inc. was awarded the base bid at $319,000 with an additional $28,000 for Alternate No. 1 – windows. IEA was awarded the abatement project design and management bid of $79,000. Motion by Dirkes, seconded by Hansen to approve the bids. Supported by all present.

8.9 Dust Collector Replacement Bid

Bids were presented for the replacement of the dust collection system at the secondary school. The current system was installed in 1992. Torit was awarded the bid for the dust collection equipment at $108,742 and the installation was awarded by Loesch at $116,840. The project will be funded by using Long-Term Facilities Maintenance dollars. Motion by Hansen, seconded by Dirkes to approve the bids. Supported by all present.

9. Committee Reports

9.1 Staff Development Committee Meeting

9.2 SEE General Membership Meeting

MASA-meet the representatives one-on-one March 20th

February 28th is SEE day at the Capitol.

9.3 Worlds Best Work Force Meeting

10. Superintendent Report Building principals will be attending board meetings in the near future and giving updates on their buildings. Avon Elementary had a sprinkler head break which resulted in class being cancelled on January 30 & 31. There was damage to 50-75% of the books in the media center. Service Master was called for clean-up. Our custodial staff have been amazing with their help and time on the Early Learning Center. We also had some members of the senior class help with cleaning out the building. The senate is working on some bills which include special education funding, support staff funding, increasing eLearning days from 5 to 10, unemployment for hourly employees, maternity leave and elective credits if working in healthcare.

11. Adjournment

Agenda completed at 7:14 pm, a motion to adjourn was made by Sand, seconded by Hansen.

ported by all Present

Huskie hits 1,000

Gerads puts in time to further his athletic ability

BY MIKE KOSIK STAFF WRITER

Tysen Gerads nailed a mid-range pull-up jump shot with eight minutes left in the first half Feb. 17 to become the 13th player in Albany Huskies boys basketball history to reach 1,000 points.

Gerads needed 12 points that night, when the Huskies faced Cathedral in front of a full gym at Albany Area High School in Albany.

“I’m pretty happy,” the senior said after the 62-54 win. “It’s been a goal of mine since I was young.”

Gerads was not sure if he would set that mark. He did not get much playing time as a sophomore but has been a starter since his junior season. “I didn’t know if it was possible,” he said. “It feels good to get it after playing two years.”

Albany boys basketball head coach Cory Schlagel said scoring 1,000 points is a great accomplishment.

“He has worked extremely hard on his game to get to this point,” Schlagel said.

PHOTOS BY MIKE KOSIK

“He has continued to develop all aspects of his game each year and pushes himself to get better on a daily basis.”

Gerads can electrify a crowd with his slam dunk ability. He said one of his favorite shots is getting a steal and finishing off with a dunk.

When he does that, it can bring a home crowd to its feet with a loud cheer. He also likes the midrange jump shot, which was the type that gave him his 1,000 point.

Schlagel said Gerads also puts in his time in the

Tysen Gerads shoots a free throw during the first half against Cathedral Feb. 17 at Albany Area High School in Albany. The free throw came just before the field goal that gave Gerads 1,000 career points in front of a full gym.

Albany Area Schools

Albany, Minnesota 56307 Administration Office Telephone 320/845-2171 –FAX 320/201-5878

Work Session

Albany Area Schools – ISD #745 District Board Room 30 Forest Ave Albany, Minnesota 56307 February 22, 2023, 6:00 PM

MELROSE TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF ELECTION AND ANNUAL MEETING

Notice is hereby given to qualified voters that the Annual Township Election and Meeting will be held at the Town Hall, 41248 County Road 13, Melrose MN on Tuesday, March 14, 2023. The election polls will be open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. for the purpose of electing: -One Supervisor, seat 3, for the term of 3 years -One Town Clerk for the term of 2 years

The Annual Meeting will begin at 8:15 p.m. after the polls close.

The Board of Canvass will convene following the Annual Meeting to certify the official election results. In the event of inclement weather, the election and Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at the above time and location.

The Town Hall will be open on Saturday, March 11, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for absentee voting. Cecilia Tylutki Melrose Township Clerk 320-256-7173 PH-7-2B

weight room “to further his athletic ability and has allowed his natural abilities to be accentuated at a very high level. All of the time he has put into these areas of development are what allowed him to reach the career milestone of 1,000 points.”

Albany wrestlers fall to Alexandria at sections

The Albany Huskies wrestling team lost to Alexandria 72-9 in the opening round of the Section 8AA Wrestling Tournament Feb. 16 at Pine River-Backus High School in Pine River.

Mason Plumski and Joseph Schmitt won their matches at 152 pounds and 160 pounds, respectively.

Section 8AA individual competition begins at 1:30

Park Rapids uses pins to eliminate Defenders wrestlers

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

The Sauk Centre-Melrose Defenders’ team wrestling season ended Feb. 17 in a 44-33 loss to Park Rapids in the Section 8AA Tournament quarterfinals at Perham High School in Perham.

Jose De Los Santos Morales’ 1-minute, 15-second pin in the

132-pound bout was part of a string of SC-M pins in the match. His victory, the fastest of the night for SC-M, was sandwiched between pins by Noah Christen, 126, and Mitchell Christen, 138, as the Defenders took an 18-14 lead.

and Will Sjogren, 285, won by forfeit. SC-M finished 7-12 in dual meets. The team begins Section individual competition Friday, Feb. 24, at Detroit

Brayden Britz lost 1:43. 195: Lara won by forfeit. 220: Isaac Frericks lost 5:04. 285: Will Sjogren won by forfeit.

Melrose Bowl Men Series Game Curt Budde 754 278 Craig Schiffler 745 258 Craig Schiffler 725 247 Kyle Bueckers 701 242 Justin Schiffler 685 257 Suds Salzmann 683 268 Theo Jacobs 683 Jamie Mueller 675 Dave Stalboerger 674 242 Kevin Kluempke 671 Matt Von Wahlde 671 245 Dennis Middendorf 671 247 Jim Engel 666 245 Ron Funk 661 256 Joe Hennen 655 Nathan Pundsack 653 Chris Meyer 642 Craig Mohr 641 Jim Engel 640 Adam Sowada 635 Jeff Laing 632 269 John Houghton 623 Jamie Mueller 622 268 Fred Arceneau 622 Chris Meyer 620 248 Marty Sarlette 618 Jason Terwey 617 Dan Dickhaus 616 Jeff Laing 614 Scott Keavney 614 Marty Andreasen 614 Gregg Toenyan 613 Jefff Lang 613 Dan Dickhaus 610 242 Dennis Middendorf 609 Dick Christenson 608 Jeff Funk 608 Brian Heinen 606 Andy Paavola 605 Scott Hoeschen 605 John Houghton 604 Dustin Leukam 603 Andy Paavola 600 Gregg Toenyan 600 246 Matt Von Wahlde 267 Women Series Game Ashley Krousey 587 222 Janet Macey 572 202 Amanda Reiter 561 Kris Leukam 552 213 Cheryl Fuechtmann 536 214 Mary Ann Primus 516 201 Michelle Fleischhacker514 Jennie Schmidtke 508 204 Cheryl Fuechtmann 508 Marlene Klasen 212

nue West, Shakopee, Minnesota.

NOTICE TO ST. WENDEL TOWNSHIP

Notice is hereby given that:

1. That a public accuracy test of the voting equipment to be used at the Township Annual Election will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at the township hall.

2. Absentee Voting. The clerk’s office at the St. Wendel Township Hall, 36922 County Road 4, will be open 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on Saturday, March 11, 2023 for absentee voting.

3. Notice of Annual Election. The polls will be open from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 14, 2023. Positions open for election are: One Supervisor for a three year term and One Treasurer for a two year term.

4. The Board of Canvass will meet at 8:15 p.m. on Tuesday, March 14, 2023.

5. Notice of Annual Meeting. The annual meeting will be held at 8:30 p.m. on March 14, 2023 to consider and do any and all business usually done at this meeting.

6. The St. Wendel Township Board meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m..

7. The St. Wendel Township Planning Board meets the last Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m..

8. In case of inclement weather the above mentioned election and annual meeting will be held on March 21, 2023. All of the above meetings and the election and annual meeting will be held at the St. Wendel Township Hall. Renee Salzer St. Wendel Township Clerk P-8-1B

CITY OF MELROSE

COUNTY OF STEARNS

STATE OF MINNESOTA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NO. 13, THE APPROVAL OF THE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM RELATED THERETO, THE CREATION OF WORKFORCE HOUSING TAX INCREMENT FINANCING DISTRICT NO. 13-1 THEREIN, CONSIDERATION TO PROVIDE TAX ABATEMENT, THE ADOPTION OF TAX INCREMENT FINANCE PLAN & ABATEMENT RESOLUTION RELATING THERETO, IN RELATION TO GRANITE CITY REAL ESTATE LLC DBA GC REAL ESTATE PARTNERS HOUSING PROJECT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Melrose, Stearns County, Minnesota, will hold a public hearing on Thursday, March 9, 2023, at approximately 6:00 p.m. at the Melrose City Center, 225 First Street NE in the City of Melrose, Minnesota, relating to (a) the proposed establishment of Municipal Development District No. 13, (b), the proposed approval of the Development Program related thereto, (c) the proposed creation of Workforce Housing Tax Increment Financing District No. 131, (d) consideration to provide Tax Abatement, (e) the proposed adoption of the Tax Increment Financing Plan and Tax Abatement Resolution relating thereto, all pursuant to and in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.124 to 469.133 and 469.174 to 469.1799, inclusive, as amended (the “Act”) and Minnesota State Statutes 469.1813 through 469.1815.

The Tax Abatement would have the City abate to the Company property taxes to be levied by the City on tax parcel number: 66.37010.0384 and 66.37010.0385. The proposed tax abatement would grant an abatement of the increase in property taxes caused by the construction of a 72-unit apartment building. The total amount of the taxes proposed to be abated by the City for six (6) years is estimated to be $526,402. The City Council will consider granting property tax abatement in response to the request.

MN 56301

Take notice that a hearing regarding the Children, DOB: 6/25/2013; DOB: 1/26/2018 , will be held in juvenile court on 3/9/2023 at 9:30 AM or soon thereafter at the Scott County Justice Center, 200 Fourth Ave-

AVON TOWNSHIP

Notice of Election, Annual Meeting, Board of Canvass

Meeting, Absentee Ballots & Public Accuracy Test

Notice is hereby given to residents of Avon Township, County of Stearns, State of Minnesota, that the Annual Township Election will be held on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM. To be elected are one Supervisor for a three-year term and one Treasurer for a two-year term.

Following the Township Election on March 14th, the Annual Town Meeting will be held at 8:15 PM to conduct all necessary business prescribed by law. Following the Annual Meeting, at about 9:00 PM, the Avon Township Board of Canvass meeting will be held.

In case of inclement weather (or other problem), the Annual Meeting, Board of Canvass, and Township Election will be postponed one week, until the third Tuesday in March (Tuesday, March 21, 2023) at the same times. If inclement weather postpones these events on the third Tuesday, then they will be held on

You are required to be at the hearing, or your parental rights may be terminated. You are required to be at the hearing, or the court may enter an order permanently affecting your parental or custodial rights to the children. Upon request, the clerk will provide you with a copy of the Petition describ-

ing the matter. If you fail to appear at the time and place listed above and stated on the Petition, judgment by default may be entered against you.

BY THE COURT: Vicky Carlson Scott County Court Administrator /s/ Karin D. Perkins Deputy Clerk P-7-3B

Thursday, March 23, 2023. Please listen to KASM radio (1150 AM) for any changes. Contact the Clerk for an absentee ballot. The Clerk’s Office at the Avon Town Hall will also be open on Saturday, March 11th from 10 AM – 12:00 PM, and on Monday, March 12th, from 12:00 – 5:00 PM to accept absentee ballots.

The Public Accuracy Test of electronic equipment for the Annual Township Election will be held Saturday, March 11th, at 10:15 AM.

All of the above listed events/meetings occur in the Avon Township Hall, 16881 Queens Road, Avon, MN. The Avon Township Hall is handicap-accessible. The public is invited to all.

The properties proposed to be included in Tax Increment Financing District No. 13-1, and the Abatement Resolution, are described in the Tax Increment Financing Plan on file in the Office of the City Administrator. A map of the Tax Increment Financing District is set forth below:

MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT

DISTRICT NO. 13 BOUNDARIES

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TIF DISTRICT NO. 13-1 -

WORKFORCE HOUSING BOUNDARIES

All interested persons may appear at the March 9 Public Hearing and present their views orally or in writing for consideration by the City Council. If you are unable to attend this hearing, written comments may be submitted to the City Administrator at

Tysen Gerads accepts congratulations from coaches and his teammates after reaching 1,000 career points Feb. 17 at Albany Area High School in Albany. Play was stopped and his accomplishment was acknowledged during the first half against Cathedral.

Holdingford sports

Girls basketball clinches conference title

BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER

The Holdingford Huskers girls basketball team had only one game last week, but it was a big one.

The Huskers clinched the Central Minnesota Conference championship with a 63-55 win over Eden Valley-Watkins Feb. 14 at EV-W High School in Eden Valley.

Holdingford recorded its 20th win of the season and its 12th in the conference, where it is undefeated. In second place is Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa at 10-3. Holdingford has two remaining conference games on its schedule.

Last season, the Huskers shared the conference title with Kimball.

“This season has been an exciting one, with a lot of big moments and key victories,” said Joel McDonough, head coach.

McDonough noted the high aspirations the team has this season as it continues to push themselves in the weight room and in practice to get better.

“We have great veteran leadership, we have a lot of star power and we have a lot of great role players who contribute greatly to the success of this team,” McDonough said.

The Huskers conclude the regular season this week.

“We are now looking at preparing ourselves for playoffs, where we hope to make a lot of traction,” he said.

In the game against EV-W, the Huskers led 36-25 at halftime.

Maddy Mitchell’s 20 points paced the Huskers, with Trista Popp and Addy Pilarski adding 10 each.

HOL 36 27-63

EV-W 25 30-55

Holdingford: Mitchell 20 points (4R), Pilarski 10 (5R), Popp 10, Makenna Hohbein 9 (5R), Felicity Leblanc 8 (6R), Lauren Soltis 4 and Chesney Phillipp 2 (4R).

Wrestling edged in semifinals

BY HERMAN LENSING | STAFF WRITER

The Holdingford Huskers wrestling team finished 1-1 in the Section 7A Wrestling Tournament Feb. 18 at Royalton High School in Royalton.

Holdingford won its quarterfinals match 65-12 over Ogilvie, recording 11 pins in the match. The only Holdingford win not by pin was Evan Petron’s 19-4 technical fall victory in the 132-pound bout. All but three of the pins were in the first period. Three of them were under one minute.

The semifinal contest featured sixth-ranked Holdingford and seventh-ranked Royalton/Upsala. Royalton/Upsala earned a 40-31 win, later winning the championship.

The match started well for the Huskers, as it won the first three weight classes. Casey Knettel started the match with a win in overtime, while Wyatt Pilarski and Wyatt Novitzki each pinned their opponent.

William Pilarski, ranked sixth at 152, broke a string of four Royalton/Upsala wins with a 4-2 decision over Will Gorecki, ranked 10th at 145, in the 152-pound battle. The match was worthy of the rankings, as it went into overtime. Holdingford won the next two matches, taking a 25-22 lead.

The teams then traded pins, with Jaxon Bartkowicz, ranked fifth at 182, moving up to 195 and facing 10thranked Kaden Holm. Bartkowicz scored a pin at 3:55, giving Holdingford a 31-28 lead. Royalton-Upsala won the final two matches to advance to the championship.

Individual section championships begin Friday, Feb. 24 at Staples-Motley High School in Staples.

Holdingford 65, Ogilvie 12

Holdingford: 106: Knettel lost 8-2. 113: Wyatt Pilarski won 1:58. 120:

Noah Perowitz won 1:34. 126: Novitzki lost 7-6. 132: Petron won 19-4 (TF).

138: Simon Boeckman won 0:23. 145: William Pilarski won 2:48. 152: Grant

Welle won 0:54. 160: Kolton Harren won 2:41. 170: Drew Lange won 0:58.

182: Luke Bieniek

Huskies cruise past Cathedral in girls basketball matchup

Albany wins 13th conference game

BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER

The Albany Huskies girls basketball team won its 13th conference game against no losses when it hosted the Cathedral Crusaders Feb. 17 and won 71-35 at Albany High School in Albany.

Albany led at the half 44-18. ALB 44 27-71 CATH 18 17-35

Individual statistics for this game were not available prior to press.

Albany 72, Zimmerman 59

The Huskies found themselves in a position they haven’t faced yet this season: trailing at halftime.

The Zimmerman Thunder took a 33-28 halftime lead into the locker room Feb. 14 at Zimmerman High School in Zimmerman. The Huskies came back in the second and scored 44 points to

Zimmerman’s 26 and came home with a 72-59 win.

“Zimmerman has a very athletic team that is capable of doing great things,” said Aaron Boyum, head coach. “They played a very strong first half, and we found ourselves trailing the game at the half for the first time this season.”

Albany responded and regained the lead early in the second half.

“I was proud of the resiliency our team was able to show in a situation of adversity we have not had to overcome to this point in the season,” Boyum said.

Kylan Gerads scored 33 points for Albany while snaring 16 rebounds. Alyssa Sand scored 20 and Savanna Pelzer 15.

ALB 28 44-72 ZIM 33 26-59

Albany:

Threes tread through Lady Dutchmen defense

Melrose girls hoops battles against Montevideo

BY HERMAN LENSING | STAFF WRITER

The Melrose Area High School Lady Dutchmen played, for the most part, a good defensive game against Montevideo Feb. 16, falling 53-43 at Montevideo High School in Montevideo. Montevideo is undefeated in West Central Conference play and went to 12-0 in the conference with the win.

The Lady Dutchmen had an early lead and kept within three-to-six points for much of the game. The Lady Dutchmen did a good job of keeping Montevideo from taking easy shots.

Where the team got hurt was with the Thunder Hawks’ 3-point shooting. Montevideo knocked down nine 3-pointers, five of them

as the shot clock was winding down.

Kaydence Bertram led Melrose offensively and defensively, scoring 17 points. When Montevideo concentrated on Bertram, Jazmin Finken delivered, hitting three 3-pointers and finishing with 11 points.

MEL 16 27-43

MONT 25 28-53

Melrose: Bertram 17 points (8R, 4A), Finken 11, Paige Gruber 9 (5R), Madelyn Kuechle 4 and Isabelle Jaenicke 2 (4R).

Minnewaska Area 56, Melrose 38

Runs by the Minnewaska Area Lakers kept them ahead in a 56-38 win over the Lady Dutchmen Feb. 14 at Melrose Elementary School in Melrose.

“We hang tough for a

long time, and the defense, for the most part, keeps us in basketball games,” said Evan Reller, head coach.

“Then, there are two and three-minute stretches we are not doing anything well and teams pour it on us.”

The Lakers built to a 14-7 lead about halfway through the first half. Blocks by Gruber and Finken and steals by Bertram helped slow down Minnewaska Area before Bertram got hot. In a four-minute span, the senior scored seven points, including a 3-point shot, to tie the game at 14 all. She finished with 17 points.

Under the basket, Gruber snagged any missed shots. She finished with 12 points, some coming from her 18 rebounds.

“They are good players,” Reller said. “They know in the absence of Ria (Nelson) they have to step up, and they have done that.”

Minnewaska Area took a 22-16 lead into halftime,

Holdingford sports

and in the second half expanded the lead to 32-20.

Avery Birch then sparked a Lady Dutchmen rally. She took an inbound pass from Kuechle to drop in a field goal, hustled down court to get a steal and grabbed a rebound as Melrose started scoring. Free throws by Finken and Bertram and field goals by Gruber brought the team within four points.

The Lady Dutchmen got no closer. In a three-minute run, the Lakers used five 3-pointers to outscore Melrose 20-4 for an insurmountable lead.

“The girls fought and got themselves back in it, but we have to find consistency,” Reller said.

MINN 24 32-56

MEL 16 22-38 Melrose: Bertram 17 (6R), Gruber 12 (18R, 6B), Finken 3, Courtney Revering 2 (5R), Nora Schwieters 2 (4R) and Birch 2.

Boys basketball outlasted in conference outings

BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER

The Holdingford Huskers boys basketball team lost to Central Minnesota Conference rival Kimball 65-46 Feb. 16 at Holdingford High School in Holdingford

The Cubs led 37-26 at halftime.

Dawson Hofer led the Huskers in scoring with 19 points, while Jeffrey Hall was close behind with 17. Hofer was also the rebounding leader with 12 boards. HOL 26 20-46 KIM 37 28-65 Holdingford: Hofer 19 points (12R, 5A), Jeffrey Hall 17, Ryder Petersen 4,

Hofer 8 (5R) and Provo 6 (10R, 4A).