The Star Post 03-01-2023

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Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Repurposing people

Bussmanns enjoy crafting unique projects, including St. Mary’s auction donations

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

Scott and Andrea Bussmann are repurposing people.

This Melrose couple enjoys taking materials, thought to be unusable, transforming items into something unique, whether it is a barn door made into a countertop, a bench made out of an old silage box or a heart made out of metal on a wood sign.

Scott laughs Feb.

More than 300 plungers participated in the Special Olympics Minnesota winter

ATKINSON ABOUT MISSIONS MELROSE pg

OMMUNITY COVERAGE 127 YEARS

400 Block upd

22 when told the auction bill for the Saturday, March 4, St. Mary’s Auction 4 Education at the Melrose American Legion lists their donated item as a redneck table.

“I guess it kinda is,” he said sitting next to Andrea.

They describe it as a beverage table that could be used in a man cave or a sheshed. Cut out of car rims, it looks like a motorcycle is holding a table, Andrea said.

Spunky’s Bar of Avon team members Tim and Megan Studniski launch themselves into the air during their Stearns County Polar Plunge Feb. 18 on Middle Spunk Lake in Avon. Spunky’s was a community sponsor for the event.

makes record-setting visit to Middle Spunk Lake

fun to see such a good crowd.”

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 MOORMAN

Like many of their homemade projects, the idea came from something Scott saw, and he put his own spin on it.

That is the artist in this vehicle technician by trade.

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Avon community helps Special Olympics Minnesota top fundraising goal

BY TIM HENNAGIR | STAFF WRITER

Avon made quite a splash as a firsttime host of the Stearns County Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Minnesota.

More than 300 brave souls entered the icy waters of Middle Spunk Lake for the Feb. 18 fundraiser.

Plungers raised more than $86,000 locally for life-changing programs for people with intellectual disabilities.

“We’re above our fundraising goal,” said Emma Fiedler, the organization’s Minneapolis-based special events coordinator. “This location is perfect.”

Spectators lined the shore near Fisher’s Club at 425 Stratford St. W. on an unseasonably warm Saturday to watch costume-clad teams and individuals finish their plunge-based fundraising missions.

“We did about 70 to 80 jumpers during a 15-minute time span,” Fielder reported. “This is a great fundraising event. We also had a lot of our Special Olympics athletes plunging. It was

Sartell Superheroes team members Amber Molitor and Shelby Lane were among the day’s first plungers.

“I jumped in honor of my stepsister, Erin, who has cerebral palsy,” Molitor said. “She was part of Special Olympics for many years. It was really cool to see the experiences she had through this organization.”

Molitor made her fifth Polar Plunge jump dressed as Superman. Lane, dressed as Wonder Woman, was a first-timer.

“It’s a good cause, and I just wanted to do it,” Lane said. “We made our fundraising goals.”

Polar Plunge page 2

Albany council receives electric vehicle charging site update

Holdingford’s Popp receives incredible experience through Make-A-Wish

BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER

From an outside glance, Trista Popp is your prototypical threesport high school athlete.

The senior is a captain and one of the sparkplugs of the 20-win Holdingford Huskers girls basketball team, a reliable back-row performer for the volleyball team and a strong hitter and fielder for the softball squad. Along with her formidability in whatever activity she plays in, she is well-regarded amongst her peers as a humble, ess leader who always looks out for her teammates.

Hidden through this energetic, lively exterior is something Popp has battled with for most of her life: cystic fibrosis, a rare genet-

American Legion Post 482 will comment on proposed location

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

ic disorder that affects lung health and digestion, among other symptoms.

Popp’s lifelong, arduous battle against CF received a sharp, upward turning point in recent months. Three months after completing her highest pulmonary function test, the longtime Minnesota Wild fan received the gift of a lifetime from the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The Holdingford resident went through a whirlwind pair of days with the Wild Feb. 10-11.

“It was a lot more than I could have even thought to ask for,” Trista said. “A lot of fun experiences.”

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Xcel Energy’s proposal to install a downtown Albany electric vehicle charging station has hit a snag.

The utility wants to install the station adjacent to Fifth Street in the southwest corner of Legion Park.

American Legion Al Besemann Post 482 members will meet this week and discuss the proposed site.

That’s what Albany clerk and administrator Tom Schneider reported during the council’s Feb. 15 meeting. Schneider said the original station location proposed on the southeast corner of the city parking lot will not work because it is on Minnesota Department of Transportation leased land.

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PHOTO SUBMITTED

Trista Popp, of Holdingford, celebrates a Minnesota Wild goal in her signed Kirill Kaprizov jersey Feb. 11 at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. The game was part of an incredible two-day experience arranged by the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Jon Klaphake

HENNAGIR

Polar Plunge from front

Sheriff Steve Soyka hit the Polar Plunge waters dressed in uniform. He said he’s the first Stearns County sheriff to take the Special Olympics Polar Plunge. Soyka said that the event provides an important form of community engagement.

“It’s an opportunity to work with the Avon Fire Department. The city has been really good to work with because they are really supportive and excited,” Soyka said. “Bringing this event back to a lake has been really helpful. If the ice would have been too thin, we would have cut a hole and people could have run in from the shoreline.”

The Stearns County Polar Plunge has raised more than $1.1 million in its 15-year history. Last year, 158 plungers raised more than $40,000 in fundraising. Stearns County Polar Plunge updates and pledge totals for participating individuals and businesses can be found at www.plungemn.org/events/stearns-county.

Melrose 2022 permit valuation tops $18 million

Fire department to use former Melrose bank building for March 6 training

BY CAROL MOORMAN | STAFF WRITER

The city of Melrose issued a record 345 building permits in 2022, totaling $18,255,664 in valuations. Permit totals since 2018 have been 131, 111, 108, 79 and 345, respectively.

Permit numbers were included in information city administer Colleen Winter shared with city council members during a year in review report at the Feb.16 monthly council meeting at the Melrose City Center in Melrose.

The 345 breakdown included 320 permits for residential maintenance with a $5,463,384 valuation, 15 for commercial/industrial maintenance with a $896,860 valuation, eight for commercial/industrial new construction with a $11,133,645 valuation and two for residential new construction with a $761,775 valua-

Popp from front

This experience of a lifetime began in March, when Popp applied to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The Wild were always her first wish. When going through her various treatments, a remedy to the constant barrage of difficulties was watching her favorite hockey team. There, Popp found two-to-threehour escapes from CF and the worries it presented. However, setting up a Make-A-Wish series of dates with the organization was originally unavailable, as the Wild had not done such visits with COVID-19 presenting an additional risk.

So, it came as a surprise to the joyous Popp when her family and Make-A-Wish volunteer

Kim Sunde gave her a special surprise Feb. 9 at the Holdingford girls basketball game against Kimball. For Senior Night, the team’s upperclassman answered questions before ripping off slips of paper on a giant poster of a ticket, and when it got to Trista’s turn, she was asked, “What’s your favorite team?” This led to the big reveal. Trista’s wish was finally being granted, after months of secret preparation by her parents.

“In August, we ac-

tion. The 320 residential maintenance permits were the result of the severe storm in early May that caused damage to shingles and siding.

In other council news:

– The council determined the Melrose and Freeport fire departments will use the former Melrose Bank/U.S. Bank building for training

Monday March 6, before demolition after which construction of the Kwik Trip building could begin.

City planner Sheila Hellermann, during her report, informed the council of this activity.

Melrose Fire Chief Tom Budde said it would be a search and rescue training, with both departments involved.

“It will be to build our search and rescue skills in a larger building,” he

said Feb. 22.

– Approved removal of a wall at the Melrose Area Museum, as requested by the Melrose Area Historical Society, which leases this cityowned building.

Roger Paschke, historical society president, who attended the meeting, said wall removal would allow for more space near the museum entrance. He anticipates it would be completed by the time the museum opens around Memorial Day.

– Approved going out for requests for proposals for the cost to update the city’s comprehensive plan. Hellermann said the plan was last updated in 2011.

– Approved 5-7 p.m. April 13 as a spring open house at the Melrose City Center, 225 First St., NE, Melrose. Winter said the public would be able to visit with staff from city departments and ask questions about projects.

“It’s a great way for people to meet out staff and see what it is we do,” she said.

ing enzymes before eating food to assist with digestion, and for most of her life, she has required nebulized medications through a breathing machine and has worn a high-frequency vest designed to unclog the mucus in her body.

“What I thought was bad, it could be mowing your grass, your car might be dirty, it made you reshuffle the blocks when you stack them,” said Dean Popp, Trista’s dad. “It’s hard to wake up in the morning and feel sorry for yourself, when she’s got a lot more on her plate.”

tually got an email from Make-A-Wish stating she needed to pick out games she would like to attend and get her list,” said Tracey Popp, Trista’s mother. “So, we had to do a little fib. I printed off the schedule, and she went through the games she wanted to go to.”

The resulting endeavor was beyond anything Trista could have ever planned herself. She went on a shopping spree at the Minnesota Wild Hockey Lodge with Wild mascot Nordy, sat iceside to watch warmups from the Wild bench and received a signed Kirill Kaprizov jersey after meeting Kaprizov and many of the players, along with Wild general manager Bill Guerin. She even took advantage of opportunities to ask the players the hard-hitting questions, from “What’s your favorite Disney princess?” to “Who is the mom and dad of the team?”

“It was just amazing

how nice and caring everyone was and how sweet they were with my sister,” said Taylor Popp, Trista’s sister. “She got to live out her dream and it was definitely a weekend none of us will forget.”

Having an up-close, personal look at some of her hockey heroes was a unique, unparalleled experience for a central Minnesota high schooler who has wanted, more than anything, to simply be just like everyone else.

“I was scared to do my treatments around other people because I didn’t want to be treated differently than others,” Trista said. “I just wanted to be normal; that’s what my main goal was. So, I just stayed in a little bubble.”

Dealing with CF is often time-consuming and exhausting. Due to CF causing mucus buildup in the lungs, pancreas and other organs, Trista’s day consists of tak-

Eventually, Trista’s fight extended beyond the walls of the Popp household. As she got older, her treatments became less hidden as those she knew began to understand her condition. Her teammates, to the family’s gratitude, embraced their role as a member of a largescale support system, reminding their friend to take her medications and making sure she remains cared for through her challenges against CF. Additionally, the CF staff at the Minneapolis Children’s Hospital have continued to play a pivotal part of Trista’s recovery process since that first visit over a decade ago.

“The doctors we’ve been blessed with from day one to now, they are unreal,” Dean said. “She sees them every few months. They’re like family.”

Trista’s CF status remains on the upswing. She has not needed the vest or nebulized medications since June, and with her latest PFT result providing more optimism, the Make-A-Wish trip served as not only the granting of a long-desired wish, but a way to celebrate her improved condition with those she loves.

“That’s why she wanted that type of wish: to bring her family and friends, that had been part of her journey for so long, as kind of a thank-you,” Tracey said. “

The hard days have not made Trista any less vigilant or determined to accomplish her goals. She and the Huskers girls hoops team are in the midst of a history season and possess a top-three seed in the Section 6AA playoffs, with the spring softball season not far away either. Not even a rare disorder can slow down Trista Popp from being the athlete and leader she wants to be.

“It just helps mentally, being able to push through this, because I can do it and I know I can,” she said. “I don’t want to stop.”

PHOTOS BY TIM

Stearns County Sheriff Steve Soyka receives a Polar Plunge assist from Avon firefighter Adam Pogatschnik after successfully completing a plunge in uniform during the Feb. 18 event on Middle Spunk Lake in Avon. Soyka said the event provides an important form of community engagement.

Avon firefighters Paul Ruegemer (from left), Adam Pogatschnik, Kevin Korneck and Craig Doll pose for a quick photo Feb. 18 before the start of this year’s Stearns County Polar Plunge on Middle Spunk Lake in Avon. The group is wearing cold-water survival suits and gloves.

PHOTO BY MIKE KOSIK

Tracey Popp (from left), Trista Popp and Dean Popp stand with Make-A-Wish grantor Kim Sunde following Trista’s MakeA-Wish announcement Feb. 9 at Holdingford High School in Holdingford. Trista, who has cystic fibrosis, met several members of the Minnesota Wild and attended the Wild’s home game Feb. 11.

PHOTO SUBMITTED Trista Popp (right) walks with Minnesota Wild forward Mats Zuccarello during her Make-A-Wish experience Feb.

at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. Popp is a longtime fan of the Wild, having watched their games during her difficult treatments for cystic fibrosis.

Donna Weber Deters

Donna Weber Deters, 86, of Roseville, formerly of Greenwald, passed Feb. 9, 2023.

A Catholic Mass will be at 11 a.m., Monday, March 20, with visitation at 10 a.m. at St. Odilia Church in Shoreview. Interment will be private.

Donna was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was the center of our family. She enjoyed gardening, golfing, traveling and, most of all, spending time with her grandchildren, family and friends. Donna was always

Michael J. Ellering

Michael J. “Mike” Ellering, 70, of Greenwald, passed away peacefully Feb. 25, 2023, at his home in Greenwald.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., Friday, March 3, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with the Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. A private inurnment will be at a later date. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m., Thursday, March 2, and 9:30-10:30 a.m., March

3, at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose.

Michael Joseph Ellering was born Sept. 8, 1952, in Melrose, to Anthony and Mary Margaret (Gross) Ellering. After graduating from Melrose High School, Mike was voluntarily drafted in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1973.

He was united in marriage to Joan Blommel April 7, 1972, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa.

Mike owned and operated the Woodshed Cabinet Shop until moving to Kerrville, Texas, where he also managed a cabinet shop. While living in Kerrville, Mike also worked as a full-time firefighter.

Mike and Joan returned to Greenwald to take over

Thomas N. Stein

Thomas N. Stein, 83, of Framingham, Massachusetts, passed away in his sleep Feb. 18, 2023, at St. Patrick’s Manor, after battling pancreatic cancer and other health conditions.

His beloved wife of 55 years, Lois “Ronnie” (Taylor) Stein, predeceased him Jan. 10, 2020.

He leaves his cherished children, Brian Stein (and wife Julie), Valerie Montuori (and husband Christopher) and daughter-in-law Maria Stein; six adored grandchildren Jacob (and wife Kelsey), Kassi, Thomas, Isabella, Konstantine and Harrison; and his great-granddaughter Alexandria.

Born and raised in Albany, he was the son of the late William “Red” Stein, Jr., and Eulalia (Neutzling) Stein. He leaves behind his much loved siblings and their spouses, Catherine “Kay” (Stein) Balletto, Alice (Stein) and William “Bill” Bolen, John and Joyce (Norgaard) Stein, Jerome “Jerry” and Marlene “Tobi” (Meyer) Stein and the late Wayne Stein; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Tom was a graduate of Albany High School, class of 1957, where he played the trumpet in band and orchestra, sang in the chorus and was part of the school play. He also played football, basketball and was a letterman. Tom was salutatorian of his graduating class. After graduating high school, Tom served in the Army and then the Army Reserves from 1957 to 1964 when he received an honorable discharge. While in the Army Reserves, Tom

will be deeply missed.

Donna is survived by Vincent, her husband of 67 years; children Ruth (Scott), Gregg, Mary Jo (Mark), Jeff (Becky) and Nancy (Steve); 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; and brothers Herb and Charlie.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Mathilda Weber; four brothers and one sister.

Donna Weber Deters

kind, thoughtful and patient with clear insight and witty observations. She was a Girl Scout leader and worked for JCPenney for 32 years. She

Joseph A. Boecker

Joseph A. “Joe” Boecker, 72, of Melrose, passed away Feb. 26, 2023, at his home in Melrose.

A private memorial service will be at PattonSchad Funeral Home in Melrose. Inurnment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose.

Memorials can be made to the Polycystic Kidney Foundation (pkdcure.org) and Open Medicine Foundation Encephalomyelitis/CFS (www.omf.ngo).

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the family farm. After his retirement from farming, he went back to cabinet making and then worked at Stony Creek Dairy until his official retirement.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. Mike enjoyed hunting and fishing, riding motorcycles and loved spending time with his grandchildren, especially when it came to playing pool. He also loved helping his family and friends with their cabinet or construction projects.

Survivors include his loving wife of 50 years,

Joan Ellering, of Greenwald; children Benj (Jenn) Ellering of Spicer, Tammy (Kyle) Beuning of Melrose, Cory (June) Ellering of Melrose, and Perry (Dannielle) Ellering of Melrose; nine grandchildren Gabe, Chloe, Turner, Lauryn, Wyatt, Jack, Kaylee, Faye and Courtney; grandpuppy Remi; mother Mary Margaret Ellering of Melrose; brothers and sister Mark (Janice) Ellering of St. Cloud, Antoinette Evens of Tomball, Texas, Daniel (Norma) Ellering of Sauk Centre, David (Mary) Ellering of St. Cloud, Anthony “Tony” Ellering of St. Cloud, and Jeff (Michelle) Ellering of Columbia Heights.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Anthony Ellering, June 4, 2012; niece Paige Luethmers; and brothers-in-law Danny and Ned.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose. P-9-1B

“Our Country is in Mourning, A Soldier Died Today.”

acoustics. He also started their first chess club. After his retirement, he was sought after and worked for Cavanaugh & Tocci Associates and Stone & Webster, Inc., as a consultant.

Joseph Arnold Boecker was born May 28, 1950, in Millwood Township, Stearns County, to Lawrence and Valeria (Pohlmann) Boecker. He attended Melrose High School through 12th grade. Joe was a self-employed truck driver who spent his entire life trucking, making local runs and traveling over the road. Survivors include

Joseph A. Boecker

his daughters, Cheryl Fuechtmann, of Melrose and Kim (Jason) Bauer of Melrose; grandsons Cody and Kyle Fuechtmann; granddaughter Olivia Bauer; brothers and sisters Caroline Erickson of Grey Eagle,

David (Ellie) Boecker of St. Rosa, Rosie (Dave) Ehlert of Freeport, Gerald (Verna “Tweetie”) Boecker of Melrose, Marilyn (Charles) Berger of Albany, Joann (Ron) Bielke of Sauk Centre, Kenneth Boecker of St. Rosa, and Steven (Geri) Boecker of Melrose; sister-in-law, Carol Boecker of Delano; and many nieces and nephews. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; son Gary Boecker at age 7; brothers Virgil, Alvin and Jerome Boecker; and nephew Brian Hellermann. Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.

Snowstorm cleanup

Melrose city employees Steve Scholz, driving the truck, and Keith Dobmeier, operating the loader with a snow blower, clear snow from a side street Feb. 24, following a two-day snowstorm that ended Feb. 23. The crew, including street and electric workers, started removing snow to designated areas in town around 4 a.m

(Right) Snow flies high as Jesus Valencia Hernandez clears his Melrose sidewalk mid-afternoon Feb. 23. A two-day total of 13 inches of snow, according to the city of Melrose, left blizzard-like conditions in the area closing schools for a second day, with some businesses closed for the day or with late openings.

attended St. John’s University in Collegeville, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in physics and math in 1962. His love of space brought him to California to work as an associate engineer specializing in thermal/ acoustical engineering in the Douglas Missile & Space Division for Douglas Aircraft and then later with Barry Controls. One of his greatest accomplishments was helping design the heating systems for the first rockets that went into space. He received the prestigious Silver Snoopy Award from NASA for recognition of outstanding contributions. This award was presented to him by astronaut Walter “Wally” Schirrra.

While in California, he met his wife, Ronnie, and they had their two children, Brian and Valerie. Tom and his family eventually moved east and settled in Framingham. He earned his master’s degree in engineering management in 1972. Tom worked for Badger American, Inc., for many decades as their chief specialist engineer in thermal/

During his leisure time, Tom and Ronnie traveled all over the world where they had many wonderful adventures together. He and Ronnie taught pre-cana at St. Bridget’s Church for many years. Tom was also the assistant Scout Master for Troop 21 in Saxonville, Massachusetts. Tom loved the outdoors and was an avid golfer, fisherman and hunter. He also loved to cook, especially making homemade bread and his famous pumpkin pie. He loved to play chess and cards and was an excellent bridge player.

Our dad was a quiet man but he was the first person to help a beloved neighbor in need as well as to stop and help a complete stranger. He will be dearly missed.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his funeral service with military honors at 11:30 a.m., Saturday March 4, at Norton Funeral Home, 53 Beech St., Framingham. At the family’s request, there will be no visiting hours.

Expressions of sympathy can be made in Tom’s name to the National Pancreatic Foundation at pancreasfoundation.org where there is a link to donate. To leave a message of condolence or sign the online guestbook, visit www. nortonfuneralhome.com.

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“Our Country is in Mourning, A Soldier Died Today.”

Melrose speech third at Tigerhead Invite

Brower, Heller earn first place

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

The Melrose Area High School speech team earned third place, of 29 competing teams, in the large school division at the Feb. 25 Princeton Tigerhead Invitational at Princeton High School in Princeton.

Melrose was the only Class A team in the top 10.

“We are over halfway through the season, and we are so excited to see the improvement with our speakers each week,” said Teresa Schad, assistant coach.

Finals: Creative: 4. Reagan Mueller and 8. Jonathan Botello. Drama: 2. Autumn Oevermann. Extemporaneous

and Isaiah Gilk. Chaska meet

The speech team took

Crime &

Melrose man charged with criminal sexual conduct

MELROSE – A Melrose man was jailed Feb. 22 after authorities learned he allegedly engaged in intercourse with a minor.

Wilber Alberto Berduo-Perez, 25, is charged with three counts of felony criminal sexual conduct with a person under age 16. Each count carries a maximum penalty of 30 years imprisonment and a $40,000 fine.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Stearns County, Melrose Police Department began investigating a sexual abuse case after a girl disclosed information to her family. The girl told police Berduo-Pe-

veteran speakers to the Feb. 18 meet at Chaska High School in Chaska. Melrose was only one of two Class A teams at the meet, with the rest all Class AA schools. Of the 11 Melrose competitors, nine made it to either the Finals round or Next-In Finals round. Finals: Drama: 3. Oevermann. Discussion: 7. Kluempke. Informative: 3. Brower. Program Oral Interpretation: 3. Traeger. Storytelling: 4. Heller. Next-In Finals results: Creative: 4. Botello. Extemporaneous Reading: 5. Anessa Redepenning. Great Speeches: 7. Zirbes. Original Oratory: 3. Lydia Prout. Poetry: 3. Traeger.

rez and she had been having weekly sexual intercourse for five to six months.

After being arrested, Berduo-Perez told officers the sexual contact began in September 2022, according to the complaint. Berduo-Perez told officers he was aware of the child’s age and that the act was illegal.

Berduo-Perez was in custody at the Stearns County Jail as of Feb. 27. He is scheduled to appear in court March 6.

Michael J. Ellering

Thomas N. Stein

Wilber Alberto Berduo-Perez

PHOTOS BY CAROL MOORMAN

Not all heroes wear capes

Negative stereotypes about teenagers abound. On social media, on talk shows, in conversations I overhear in grocery stores, I often hear about teenage laziness, about addiction to cell phones, about an inability to have even a simple conversation. I hear that teens are self-centered, entitled and materialistic.

While these stereotypes ring true for a few teens (and adults too), for the majority, these stereotypes flatten and disregard the truth. This past week’s blood drive at Albany Area High School illustrated the generosity, the compassion and the work ethic of teens.

The fleet of Red Cross vans backed up to the high school entrance at 6:30 Friday morning, 15 minutes before their scheduled arrival time. My crew of high school students had arrived even earlier. The schedule asked students to be at school by 6:45 a.m. They were there at 6:30; early, not because I asked, but because that’s the kind of people they are, holding open doors, pushing icy cold metal carts through the below zero temperatures and transforming the gym into a donation unit.

This same group of students had been working for weeks to recruit donors. Our goal was 88. Donors who are 16 needed parent permission. Donors needed to meet height and weight requirements. Donors needed to consent to a needle driving into their arm and their blood being taken. For high school students especially, most of whom are first time donors, this is scary. The easy response when asked to donate is a simple and quick “no thanks.”

Cobbling

Still hopeful

But so many students didn’t take the easy road. Despite their trepidation and nerves, they said yes. We met our goal, recruiting 88 students and staff selflessly consenting to donate. And all 88 showed up. Not a single student allowed nerves to overtake them. Not one student forgot their appointment. Not one decided to simply not show up.

All day, students left class, which meant makeup work later that night, walked themselves to the gym and did the work of a hero. They were nervous, yet they persisted.

While students donated, other students worked the registration table, offered snacks and juice and were available to accommodate whatever needs Red Cross workers ran into.

Although one student joked that she’d rather be donating blood than sitting in math class, a blood donation is truly an altruistic gift, a gift that ensures a stable and safe blood supply for area hospitals. It is a disinterested act solely centered on the well-being of others. One blood donation can save up to three lives. Students knew that and felt good about the work they were doing.

Schools are designed to teach long division, photosynthesis and punctuation, but on Friday Albany Area Schools offered life lessons about compassion, selflessness and generosity. Students learned about the responsibility to take care of others.

I asked donors if they had worn their capes to school that day, because on Friday our teenagers were heroes.

for soles and souls

Prior to the mid-20th century, worn or damaged shoes were not discarded. Shoes would be taken to a cobbler for repair.

Cobblers were considered essential in communities. Most histories record the first business in many American towns were bars and blacksmiths. Coming in right after them were cobblers and harness repair.

That was the case in Avon in the early 20th century. Its best known cobbler for much of the century was probably Henry Bertemes. Jeanette Blonigen Clancy’s book “Nestled Between Lakes and Wooded Hills” said he learned the trade in Luxemburg, before coming to the United States. It was said he could turn a shoe inside out.

Cobblers are shoe repair people, not shoemakers, although some people confuse the two occupations. A shoemaker was traditionally called a cordwain. Cobblers repair shoes, boots, sandals, moccasins and, in some cases, clogs. Prior to the 1960s, it was generally cheaper, faster and more economical to bring shoes to a cobbler for repair, than purchasing a new pair.

Most shoes, at one time, had leather components, and cobblers had to know how to work with various grades of leather and how shoes were made and assembled. Then too customers wanted the shoes quickly as shoes and boots were often needed for work.

In Avon, Bertemes became famous for his reliability in getting products repaired, quality of work and being part of the early Avon business scene. Clancy’s research showed he started around 1913, advertising horse harnesses, blankets, robes and “first class shoe repair.”

His wit and variety of moods were as much a part of

Blattner hockey team to host Minnesota Warriors veteran hockey team

SARTELL – The public is invited to the Bernick’s Ice Arena at the Scheels Athletic Complex in Sartell at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 4, when the Blattner hockey team will host the Minnesota Warriors Veterans Hockey Team in a commemorative game that will raise funds to support the veterans’ hockey program. Admission to the event is free, but donations for the Minnesota Warriors organization are appreciated.

A 4:30 p.m. game featuring some of the newer players to the Minnesota Warriors organization is also taking place.

The showcase game starts with a performance of the national anthem by Minnesota Wild singer John deCausmeaker and an honorary puck drop by William Kinman, United States Army and solar project manager for Blattner.

“Blattner is honored to host this event to raise funds and awareness for the Minnesota Warriors, and to honor and thank them for their service to our country,” said Lee Stevens, Blattner building services manager, Minnesota Warriors team member and proud United States Marine.

Applications sought for Melrose Federation of Teachers scholarship

MELROSE – The Melrose Federation of Teachers is offering a $500 scholarship this year to a Melrose Area High School graduate pursuing a teaching degree. Any stu-

the business as his products, according to the book. Some remembered him as a person who would joke around. Others recalled he once chased an apple thief with an ax. He was known to let children operate the pedal on his machines, and others felt children were not welcome.

Occasionally those personalities blended into a wry wit. When one customer brought in a pair of shoes with the sole worn down on the side, he told the owner to start plowing hills in a different direction.

To some degree his prices were negotiable. One person, in the book, recalled Bertemes told a child it would cost $5 to repair his shoe. The child had five cents, and Bertemes said it would be enough. A different story was told about when a ball player brought in a glove for repair and was greeted with an “I’m busy” salutation. When the glove was repaired there was no charge. Whether it was his repair of shoes, harnesses or gloves, people liked his work. His being the source of stories and wit were other reasons he was appreciated.

Tennis shoes and sneakers didn’t become popular footwear until after the 1960s, although the forerunners of those shoes were made in the 1800s. Those shoes and other modern footgear tended to be discarded when worn, damaged or out of fashion.

Bertemes may have seen that change coming. He lasted in the business in Avon for almost half a century. He sold the business in 1961, just as modern footwear was becoming more common. For years, he provided comfort for the community’s soles and souls.

I am not a young man anymore. I have seen my share of winter-mega storms in November and April, even a few flakes in June. Still, every February when a warm spell hits, the snow melts, grass becomes visible again and rain falls from the sky instead of snow, for some reason, I believe we have turned the corner on winter, the worst of it at least is over, and spring is on the horizon.

My generation talks a lot about the blizzards we lived through as kids. We would have snow up to the garage roofs and basketball rims. Big bulldozers, not snowplows, would clear the highways. Forget the wind and cold, we don’t get winters now like we did then. We went everywhere with an extra pair of gloves and mittens and a blanket and a shovel in the trunk of the car. Even the school buses had shovels in them for when they inevitably got stuck in a snowbank. Avoiding the cold wasn’t an option. Being ready for it required preparedness. I remember wearing large oversized wool socks on top of our gloves and plastic bread bags in our boots. We would wear dish towels over our face and cheeks as bandanas. When our fingers got cold we would unzip our jacket and press them up into our armpits. As long as we were moving we stayed warm. It wasn’t until we peeled off the layers in front of the wood stove that the thawing and stinging began.

Shoveling snow was kind of like making wood. It’s fun when it is not something you have to do. Once it becomes a chore, then most of the excitement leaves.

I remember a storm one winter as a kid that will always stay with me. The snow fell and the wind blew for three days straight. The electricity had gone out, so we were milking cows by hand. Fortunately, we had a wood stove in the house and plenty of wood stacked up to keep us warm. Snowmobiles were getting stuck on the highway, the snow was so deep. To this day I gauge how bad a storm is by the distance we could see ahead of us that day. I have heard from others, too, that they had baler twine stretched from the barn to the house to hold on to and find their way. We hung on to a rope dad had around his waist to make sure none of us got lost in the snow. Finally the snow ended, and we were able to use the tractor and bucket to push a path to the barn. That was for ourselves to walk in and for the milk truck to get through. Regrettably, once the milk truck driver showed up, the wind had blown a bank across the road again, and the truck got stuck. To this day, I remember shoveling snow to get the milk truck free. The driver was not happy. That was on us.

Whenever I hear predictions of a blizzard, I think back to that day but then these later storms never match those.

Today the Twins are playing baseball in Florida. There have been years in the past that we worked up and planted fields in March. Spring is only weeks away and some days it seems so close. Then I remember again the state basketball tournament blizzards, April snowstorms and ice-covered days in May, and I think what could be. Don’t put away those boots yet. We are overdue.

dent who meets the requirements is encouraged to apply. A panel of MFT members will choose the recipient(s).

The applicant must be a Melrose High School graduate who has been accepted into the education department at his/her college or university, provide a transcript of proof of acceptance into the education department, submit an essay of up to 500 words related to their personal and professional goals and the importance of education and include a minimum of one letter of recommendation from a past or present instructor other than your parent/guardian.

Materials must be turned into the Melrose Area High School office by April 1.

Senior

DINING MENU

Pondview Estates, 334 Golfview Drive, Albany 320-845-4070 – March 1-8

Wednesday: Chicken breast, whipped potatoes, green beans, bun and pie.

Thursday: Breakfast frittata on croissant, sausage patty and fruit.

Friday: Tuna noodle hotdish, lettuce salad, peas and roll.

Monday: Corndog, baked beans, cucumber salad and grapes.

Tuesday: Liver and onions or hamburger patty with gravy, fresh green beans, fruit cocktail and bread.

Wednesday: Special of the day.

Menu items are subject to change.

Congregate senior dining is open, but call to register. If no answer, leave a detailed message, name and phone number

STAFF Mark Klaphake ...................General Manager …………………………………mark.k@saukherald.com

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Missy Traeger .....................Sales & Marketing Manager ………………………missy@saukherald.com

Natasha Barber ..................Managing Editor …………………………………natasha@saukherald.com

Nancy Powell......................Manager……………………………………………nancy,p@star-pub.com

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Carol Moorman .................Editor/Writer ………………………………………carol.m@star-pub.com

Mike Kosik ...........................Writer ………………………………………………mike.k@star-pub.com

Herman Lensing................Writer ………………………………………………herman.l@star-pub.com

Evan Michealson ...............Writer ………………………………………………evan.m@star-pub.com

Tim Hennagir .....................Writer ………………………………………………tim.h@star-pub.com

Amanda Thooft .................Production Manager/Page Design & Layout ……amanda@saukherald.com

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Warren Stone .....................Marketing …………………………………………warren@star-pub.com

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Robin

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

Ink on My Hands by Kevin Zierden

The Farmers Daughter By Sonya Hoffarth

A Peek at the Past by Herman Lensing

LOCAL C LA SS IFIED S

Avon Estates city-owned residential lots receive price reduction

Realtor requests updated contract listing during meeting open forum

BY TI M HE NN AGI R | STAFF WRITER

Avon council members recently agreed with a realtor’s assessment regarding city-owned lot pricing.

Central MN Realty’s Matt Imdieke requested updating listings for Avon Estates earlier this month.

Administrator and clerk Jodi Austing-Traut said staff had suggested city leaders consider repricing the $33,325 Serenity Court lots because they have been inactive. Imdieke spoke at a Feb. 6 council meeting.

“I think that’s a little bit expensive for the central Minnesota market,” Imdieke said, adding there are six to seven patio home lots still available in Serenity Court, which is served by city water and sewer.

Imdieke said Avon was competing against lower priced residential lots in Albany near Interstate 94.

“There have been several more lots that have been sold there,” he said. “We are seeing more homes built in there. Those lots are only $13,000 or $14,000.”

Imdieke suggested a lot price cut to $18,900.

Austing-Traut said it would be more beneficial to the city to have the Avon Estates patio home properties on the tax rolls, paying water, sewer and access fees.

“A couple of those lots are really small,” she said. “I don’t think $14,000 is out of line on those lots. The only interest we are getting is people who want to buy two lots.”

The smaller city-owned lots would be perfect for retirees searching for a two-bedroom and two-bath home, Imdieke said.

“They are also in an association and have buyers who want snow removal and lawn care,” he added.

Councilor Doug Schaefer asked Imdieke about buyers’ pricing perceptions. Schaefer wondered if the Serenity lots were overpriced.

“They usually ask about price in relation to the lot size,” Imdieke replied.

Councilor Aaron Goebel made a motion to enter into a revised contract with Central MN Realty.

Four smaller Serenity Court lots would be priced at $14,900 and four larger lots at $19,900.

Schaefer seconded Goebel’s motion, and the item was unanimously approved be the rest of the city council.

“This will show the average consumer and builder that the city is willing to negotiate,” Imdieke said.

Parents Eric and Sara Dehmer are all smiles volunteering during the St. John’s-St. Andrew’s Catholic School Steak and Wine Dinner and Auction Jan. 28 at the Greenwald Pub in Greenwald. They have been working in the kitchen or dining room during the fundraiser for 19 years, with a few more years to go as their youngest child is in third grade.

Paraprofessional

MELROSE AREA PUBLIC SCHOOLS is seeking one FULL-TIME Paraprofessional for the 2022-2023 school year. If interested, please send a letter of interest, resume, and

Parent Ben Stepan carries fish and steak entrees to diners Jan. 28 during the St. John’s-St. Andrew’s Catholic School Steak and Wine Dinner and Auction at the Greenwald Pub in Greenwald. Close to 350 meals were served Jan. 27 and 28, with the live auction and music by Donny Brang Jan. 28.

Clerk 225 1st St NE, Melrose MN 56352 or email to hr@cityofmelrose.com by noon on Friday, March 10, 2023.

Albany Apartment for Rent - 2 bedroom/1 bath. $650/ mo, $100 deposit. No Dogs! Call for availability, Loreen 763238-0616. PS-4-tfnB

PHOTOS BY CAROL MOORMAN

Council learns more about Avon Estates baseball field cost

City leaders receive initial quote for site preparation work

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

Avon city leaders have received a site preparation update regarding a future Avon Estates baseball field.

Administrator and clerk Jodi Austing-Traut reviewed a quote from St. Joseph-based C&L Excavating at the council’s Feb. 6 meeting at Avon City Hall. She reported grading, sanding, and topsoil work would cost around

$100,000.

“This is just an FYI,” she told the council, further referencing a Jan. 9 meeting visit by Avon Youth Baseball Board members Mark Buchanon and Nick Henkemeyer. The $100,000 estimate will be used for grant applications and funding requests being made by Avon Youth Baseball.

If those funds are received, the Avon Estates project would be bid according to state statute.

“Mr. Buchanon and Mr. Henkemeyer are in the process of getting those grant applications together, and

soliciting funds for Stratford Park,” Austing-Traut said.

Avon Youth Baseball wants to land Minnesota Twins and Major League Baseball scorecards regarding grant funding for its community field projects.

Last month, the organization applied for a Fields for Kids matching grant for ballfield improvements.

The organization initially reached its funding plan thanks to a $5,000 award provided from former Twin Al Newman, a member of two World Series teams.

Buchanon and Henkemeyer said Avon’s grant total could reach $50,000 from

Melrose, Sauk Centre, Freeport firefighters battle Meire Grove house fire

Occupants evacuated, firefighter OK after falling through floor boards

BY CAROL MOORMAN | STAFF WRITER

A Melrose firefighter who fell through main floor boards was not injured and the two occupants and two dogs in a Meire Grove house got out during a fire, fought by Melrose, Sauk Centre and Freeport fire departments, early Feb. 23, during blizzard-like conditions.

According to the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office, homeowner Ethan Walz, 26, reported around 12:25 a.m. being awakened by smoke alarms going off inside his residence, and he could see smoke coming from the basement. Walz woke up his roommate, Alex Zierden, 28, and they evacuated the home with their two dogs.

Melrose Fire Department and Melrose ambulance were dispatched, and Fire Chief Tom Budde said he requested mutual aid from the Sauk Centre Fire Department since he knew it was a house fire.

“As we were heading out from the hall to the fire, the roads were pretty tough and blown over, and I made the call to get the Freeport Fire Department with their tankers, and then we got to the scene, and I requested everybody from Freeport

with the cold and the size of the house, knowing now what we had,” Budde said.

Since the house was located just off of Highway 4, Stearns County deputies helped with traffic control.

When Budde arrived in the first fire truck, he could see fire by the entryway. Walz would later tell him he woke up to heavy smoke and fire in the kitchen spreading to a couch in the living room.

Budde did a 350-degree walk-around the house and with one crew already inside the main level, he directed a second crew to gain access to the basement.

“Sauk Centre arrived and helped out in the basement and on the north side of the house,” Budde said.

The extra tankers from Freeport were used to transport water from the Melrose fire hall to the fire.

“We knew it would take longer because of the weather to get back and forth, plus with the wind, snow and cold temperatures there was a possibility that water lines would freeze up, which one did,” Budde said.

He said the high winds were actually in their favor,

pushing the fire and smoke to the back side of the house where the fire was, instead of toward the portion of the house not yet affected.

One Melrose firefighter, who was with three other guys, fell through the main floor about six-feet into the basement.

“The floor gave away and he fell in,” Budde said. “Thankfully, that’s where Freeport and Melrose guys were, and he fell right in front of them, and they got him out.”

The firefighter was taken by Melrose ambulance to CentraCare-Melrose Hospital, checked out and released.

Walz and Zierden were not injured and did not seek any medical attention, according to the sheriff’s office press release.

Firefighters extinguished the fire, but the residence suffered heavy smoke, water and fire damage. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Firefighters were at the scene for close to five hours.

Budde said the situation is a reminder of how important it is to have functioning smoke alarms.

“Thankfully, he had working smoke detectors that alerted him, or this could have been a different situation,” he said.

the three funding sources.

The youth program is targeting Stratford Field improvements and a possible new field at Avon Estates.

The Twins can provide a matching grant up to $15,000 for renovation or construction of youth baseball and softball fields. Applications opened Jan. 23.

Minnesota Twins Community Fund Executive Director Kristin Rortvedt said Avon will learn about the status of its grant at the end of March.

Buchanon previously told the city council that adding an Avon Estates field might be Phase 2 work.

Avon Youth Baseball will continue to raise local dollars to match the potential Twins and MLB funds.

Ideas for improvements include infield work and realignment of bases, along with rolling, flattening and seeding the area.

Possible dugouts and temporary outfield fencing are also being considered. Buchanon and Henkemeyer previously reported additional batting cages are needed at several fields in town.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A LIVESTOCK FEEDLOT PERMIT

Notice is hereby given per Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 116, that Quality Turkey Inc., has made application to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the County of Stearns for a permit to construct a finishing barn. A barn of 60x600 is to replace the existing barn due to fire on December 19th, 2022. There will be no additional animal unit of turkeys. All barns on farm are total confinement and have a compost shed for dead turkeys. Feedlot location is 36091 300th Ave Melrose, MN 56352, Section 17, Oak Township, Stearns County. The feedlot contains 38,000 turkeys under 5lbs and 76,000 turkeys at 5 lbs. and over. Total animal units is 1,558 AU.

P-9-1B

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE

THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTIFICATION OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PERIOD PROVIDED BY

LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN: That default has occurred in the conditions of the mortgage dated October 17, 2016, executed by Jay H. Seguin, an unmarried man, as mortgagor, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., a corporation, MIN 1012742-0000050450-7, as nominee and mortgagee for HomeServices Lending, LLC d/b/a Edina Realty Mortgage, through loan originator Kevin Kildahl, NMLS ID 1236759, recorded in the office of the County Recorder of Stearns County, Minnesota, on October 26, 2016, as Document No. A1480672, which mortgage conveyed and mortgaged the following described property, situated in the County of Stearns and State of Minnesota, which property has a street address of 144 30th Avenue North, St. Cloud, Minnesota 56303, property identification number 82.50381.0000, which mortgage was assigned to Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc., by Assignment of Mortgage dated December 7, 2022, and recorded December 19, 2022 as Document No. A1646231: Lot Twenty-eight (28), Block One (1), Roosevelt Place, according to the plat and survey thereof on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Stearns County, Minnesota

That the original principal amount secured by said mortgage was $92,646.00; that there has been compliance with any condition precedent to acceleration of the debt secured by said mortgage and foreclosure of said mortgage required by said mortgage, any note secured thereby, or any statute; that no action or proceeding to recover the debt remaining secured by said mortgage is pending, or any part thereof; that there is claimed to be due upon said mortgage and is due thereon at the date of this notice, the sum of $88,875.15 in principal and interest.

That as a result of the aforesaid default, and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the said mortgage will be foreclosed by the sale of the above described premises with appurtenances,

CITY OF ALBANY COUNTY OF STEARNS

STATE OF MINNESOTA

which said sale will be made by the Sheriff of Stearns County, Minnesota, at the Sheriff’s office in the Law Enforcement Center, 807 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, Minnesota, on April 19, 2023, at 10:00 o’clock a.m., at public auction to the highest bidder, to pay the amount then due on said mortgage, together with the costs of foreclosure, including attorneys’ fees as allowed by law, in accordance with the provisions of said mortgage. The time allowed by law for redemption by the mortgagor, his personal representatives or assigns, is six (6) months from the date of said sale. MORTGAGOR(S) RELEASED FROM FINANCIAL OBLIGATION ON MORTGAGE: NONE 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. If the mortgage is not reinstated under Minn. Stat. §580.30 or redeemed under Minn. Stat. §580.23, the mortgagor must vacate the mortgaged property by 11:59 p.m. on October 19, 2023, unless the foreclosure is postponed pursuant to Minn. Stat. §580.07, or the redemption period is reduced to five (5) weeks under Minn. Stat. §582.032. THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT BY A DEBT COLLECTOR. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

DATED: March 1, 2023

Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc., assignee of Mortgagee

FOLEY & MANSFIELD, P.L.L.P.

By: Sean C. Mansfield

Atty. No. 0400374

Attorneys for Mortgagee 250 Marquette Avenue, Suite 1200 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 P-9-6B

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF TAX INCREMENT FINANCING DISTRICT NO. 17 WITHIN MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NO. 1, THE ADOPTION OF A TAX INCREMENT FINANCING PLAN RELATING THERETO THE MODIFICATION OF TAX INCREMENT FINANCING DISTRICT 16, AND THE ADOPTION OF THE MODIFIED TAX INCREMENT FINANCING PLAN RELATING THERETO

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council (the “Council”) of the City of Albany, Stearns County, Minnesota, will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at 6:30 p.m., at the Albany City Hall in the City of Albany, Minnesota, relating to the (a) the proposed establishment of Tax Increment Financing District No.17 within Municipal Development District No. 1, (b) the adoption of the Tax Increment Financing Plan relating thereto (c) the proposed modification of Tax Increment Financing District No. 16, and (d) the adoption of the modified Tax Increment Financing Plan relating thereto, all pursuant to and in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.174 to 469.1794, inclusive, as amended (the “Act”). Copies of the new and modified Tax Increment Financing Plans as proposed to be modified and adopted will be on file and available for public inspection at the office of the City Administrator at City Hall.

The property included in Tax Increment Financing District No. 17 is described in the Tax Increment Financing Plan on file in the office of the City Administrator. A map of the proposed Tax Increment Financing District is set forth below:

Tyler Leukam 653

Jason Christenson651

Jeff Nieland 643

Farming Township Election and Town Meeting Board of Canvass Accuracy Test

1. Notice if hereby given to the qualified voters of Farming Township, County of Stearns, State of Minnesota that the Annual Township Election will take place on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 in the Board room of the Farming Community Center, 23801 County Road 42, Richmond, MN 56368 (Town of Farming). Polls will be open from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. to elect one supervisor for a term of 3 years and one Treasurer for a term of 2 years.

2. The Board of Canvass will be held immediately following the election.

3. The Annual Town Meeting will be held at approximately 8:30 p.m. at the same address following the Election and Board of Canvass to conduct all necessary business prescribed by law.

4. In case of inclement weather, the Election and Annual meeting will be postponed until the third Tuesday March 21, 2023. If inclement also postpones the election and Town Meeting on the third Tuesday they will be held on the fourth Tuesday, March 28, 2023. Listen to KASM radio for any notices.

Tyler Leukam 609

Aaron Klaphake 606

Matt Von Wahlde 604

Chad Funk 603

Doug Meyer 602

Kurt Rothstein 602

Suds Salzmann 600

5. Absentee voting can be done at the clerk’s residence at 26855 County Road 23, Richmond, MN 56368 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 11, 2023. For more information voters can call or text 320-249-3710 or email farmingtownship@gmail.com.

6. A Public Accuracy test on the Automark Handicapped Voting Machine will be held Monday, March 6, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Farming Community Center. This testing is open to the public. Linda

Clerk P-9-1B

All interested persons may appear at the hearing and present their view orally or in writing.

KRAIN TOWNSHIP NOTICE

Notice is hereby given to qualified voters of Krain Township, Stearns County, State of Minnesota, that the Annual Election of Town Officers and Annual Town Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at the Krain Town Hall located at 43207 State Hwy 238 Freeport, MN. In case of inclement weather, the election and meeting may be postponed until Tuesday, March 21, 2023. Please listen to KASM radio, 1150 AM, for possible weather-related postponements.

Election polls will be open from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at which time the voters will elect one supervisor for a 3-year term and one treasurer for a 2-year term.

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

The board of Canvass will meet after the Annual Town Meeting to certify the election results.

The Public Accuracy Testing of the voting equipment will be held Saturday, March 11th, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the Krain Town Hall.

Annie Sauer Krain Township Clerk P-9-1B

CITY OF ALBANY

AMENDMENT TO ORDINANCE NO. 30

MUNICPAL WATER SYSTEM SUMMARY

PUBLICATION

The City of Albany has approved an Amendment to Ordinance No. 30 which (1) establishes the due date for water service fees; (2) establishes the procedure for disconnecting service for nonpayment; and (3) provides for assessing any unpaid accounts after notice and an opportunity for a hearing have been provided to the property owner.

This material is a summary of the above referenced amendments. The full text of the Ordinance is available for inspection by any person during regular office hours at the office of the Albany City Clerk/Administrator.

This Ordinance was adopted by the City Council of Albany on February 15, 2023, and shall be effective upon publication.

Tom Kasner, Mayor Tom Schneider, Clerk/Administrator ( S E A L )

This amendment was published in the Star Post on March 1, 2023. P-9-1B

NOTICE CITY OF ALBANY POLICE PATROL OFFICER POSITION OPENING

The Albany Police Department is looking to hire one officer for a full-time position.

This person would benefit from a flexible, rotating schedule that only requires working an average of 11-13 days per month, their own squad car, a community that trusts, respects and supports them, an excellent school district, and easy access to metro areas when desired. Starting pay will be negotiable, but experience will be considered along with an excellent benefits package.

This officer would become part of a team that works well together. The Albany Police Department is a great place to get good experience or to make a career department. A team that is flexible when “life” comes up and willing to help each other when needed. We value integrity, communication, honesty, and trustworthiness as a baseline of who we are and the way we protect our community.

If interested please contact Heather Cruz at 320-845-2200 or email hcruz@ci.albany.mn.us. Applications can also be found on our website at ci.albany.mn.us.

Position will be open until filled.

Tom Schneider Clerk/Adm.

Published in the Star Post this 1st day of March, 2023. P-9-1B

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333

The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required for consumer protection in order to enable customers to be able to identify the true owner of a business.

ASSUMED NAME: Rubber Ducky Marine & Outdoors.

PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 1105 Shamrock Ln., Albany, MN 56307 USA.

NAMEHOLDER(S): Rubber Ducky Marine, LLC, 208 Char Ave. SE, Avon, MN 56310 USA.

By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath.

/s/ Kelly Springer 02/20/2023

P-9-2B

NOTICE OF JUVENILE HEARING State Of Minnesota) :ss County of Scott In the Matter of the Welfare of the Children of: Kyra Antanette Love and Kenneth Maurice Love and Mandela Perouza Scott Co. Court File No. 70-JV-23-783

TO: Kenneth Maurice Love addresses: 1910 10th Ave. S. #7, St. Cloud, 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-

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 re-

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,

Holdingford School Board Briefs

The Holdingford School Board held their regular meeting on February 15, 2023. Members present Evelyn Martini, Elissa Ebnet, Ed Feia, Lori Opatz, Rob Knettel, and Pat Meier. Member absent: Sarah Binek. Also attending was: Superintendent Chris Swenson, Elementary Principal Jim Stang, Business Manager Garrity Gerber, Adm. Assistant Linda Zapzalka and Mike Kosik from Star Publications. Secondary Interim Principal Tim Wege arrived at 6:14 PM.

Chair Feia called the meeting to order, the pledge was recited, and the amended agenda was approved.

The meeting continued with approval of the consent agenda. Items in consent agenda included: approval of the minutes from Jan. 18th School Board Meeting, Feb. 1st Work Session and Feb. 1st Closed Mtg.; approval of the schedule of bills in the amount of $542,013.04--. Computer checks approved #53538 through #53726 and #30538 through #30555 in the amount of $5,761.59; approval of the electronic transfer for Jan. 2023, $2,470,143.72; acknowledgement of the Treasurer’s Report balance per books $5,362,614,58; approval of Board Committee Assignments; approval of Policy 524 Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy; approval of Policy 603 Curriculum Development; approval of Policy 604 Instructional Curriculum; and accepted donations fromBoxTops for Education $65.20 to Elem PBIS and $87.40 to Science, from the Husker Athletic Booster Club $45,000 to Husker Athletic Booster Club Activity Acct., from Holdingford Lions $450 to FFA, and from Duclos $25 to Future Educators Club.

Reports:

Superintendent Swenson Presented School Board Members Certificates of Appreciation and thanked them for being a great team to work with. He reported on Portrait of a Graduate which will be starting to meet this summer and talked about the successes the winter activities are having. Mr. Swenson invited the Board to attend the Winter Pepfest which will highlight those successes and honor the Students of the Quarter. He informed the Board that Ms. Taylor Peck joined him on KASM Radio live to talk about the Youth Horse Judging Workshop she attended with Holdingford students at Blackhawk Community College in Galva, IL.

Elementary Principal Stang reported Parent Teacher Conferences went wonderful and bench mark discussions took place on the staff inservice day along with curriculum critiquing and a fantastic staff activity lead by Mr. Swenson was enjoyed by all. He thanked everyone for their diligence in trying hard to get good, accurate test results. Mr. Stang informed the Board the Kindergarten Roundup will continue to be done virtually and expressed appreciation to the PTA for all they do for “I Love to Read Month.

Secondary Principal Wege reported on the Principal hiring, Business Teacher hiring and upcoming interviews for a Math Teacher. He informed the Board the Staff Development Day included

nue West, Shakopee, Minnesota. 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-

sults of the election.

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 15, 2023, to hear all persons present upon action taken by the City Council on a request by Imdieke Properties, LLC, 501 Freedom Lane, Albany, MN, to vacate the drainage and utility easement as dedicated in the Albany Business and Industrial Park plat, according to the recorded plat thereof, Stearns County, Minnesota, bounded as follows:

LEGAL DESCRIPTION FOR VACATING DRAINAGE AND UTILITY EASEMENTS

Vacating the drainage and utility easement as dedicated in ALBANY BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL PARK, according to the recorded plat thereof, Stearns County, Minnesota, bounded as follows:

-On the North by a line measured 5.00 feet North of, as measured at a right angle to and parallel with the South line of Lot 3, Block 4, said ALBANY BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL PARK.

-On the East by a line measured 25.00 feet West of, as measured at a right angle to and parallel with the East line of Lots 3 and 4, said Block 4.

-On the South by a line measured 5.00 feet South of, as measured at a right angle to and parallel with the North line of said Lot 4.

-On the West by a line measured 5.00 feet East of, as measured at a right angle to and parallel with the West line of said Lots 3 and 4.

Dated this 23rd day of February 2023.

Tom Schneider Clerk/Adm.

Published in the Star Post on March 1st and March 8, 2023. P-9-2B

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

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

ing the

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

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, 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-8-2B

MCA data review along with curriculum review and vertical alignment. Mr. Wege spoke on the upcoming NHS Blood Drive, State Dance Competition, Wrestling Sections, Band and Choir contests, and Common Ground participation. Ebnet reported BSED business as usual.

Business Manager Gerber reported he is working on the revised budget for the March meeting, preparing for negotiations and working with Tech staff to get all software inventoried. Other agenda items at the February 15, 2023 meeting included:

Business Items:

• Mr. Swenson summarized the calendar creation process. The calendars for 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 were approved.

• Approved the revisions to the Graduation Credit Requirements as presented.

• Approved to offer Summer School Readiness ESY, K-8 ESY and K-8 Targeted Services Summer School.

Personnel: •Accepted the resignation from Secondary Math Teacher Matthew Myers effective at the end of the 2022-2023 school year. The Board and administration thanked him for his 9 years of service with the district.

• Hired Melanie Thompson at MS30 Step 1 for a Long Term Business Teacher Substitute from 4/13/2023-6/1/2023.

• Hired Sara Streit for Husker KidZone Assistant.

• Hired Gavin Winter for Husker KidZone Assistant.

• Hired Scott Daninger at BS40 Step 1 for Long Term Co-Sub Science Teacher from approximately 4/22/2023-6/1/2023.

• Hired Kari Dombrovski at MS30 Step 1 for Long Term Co-Sub Science Teacher from approximately 4/22/2023-6/1/2023.

• Hire Kevin Beehler for Secondary Principal with a start date of 7/1/2023. Superintendent Swenson thanked everyone involved with the interview process and is excited to get Mr. Beehler onboard.

• Approved to extend Breeanna Teigland’s Para time by 15 minutes at the end of each day to accompany a student on the bus.

• Hired Alyssa Rosenberger for the Business Teacher position at BS Step 1 for the 2023-2024 school year. Hire at Tier 2 pending completion of licensing requirements prior to the start of the 2023-2024 school year.

A review of the upcoming meeting dates took place.

School Board Work Session March 1, 2023 @ 6:00 PM in the HS Meeting Room.

School Board Meeting March 15, 2023 @ 6:00 PM in the HS Meeting Room.

This article is a summary of the minutes. The full text is available for public inspection at the District Office or online at http://www.isd738.org/school-board-meeting-agendasminutes. html.

P-9-1B

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

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

He has converted that love into doing somersaults and twists when coming off the diving board. He has consistently executed them well in competition.

“My favorite dive would have to be a back somersault, 2 1/2 twists,” he said. “This dive is really just a backflip, but the entire time you are just twisting. I have always loved twisters, especially back twisters.”

Olmschenk started diving two years ago. It was not an instant match of interests.

“My coach asked me if I wanted to try out for diving, which led me to falling in love with it – slowly,” he said.

Unlike his fellow divers, Marthaler came to the sport late. He came out this year.

“It’s pretty much like bouncing on a trampoline for an hour or two every day, and that’s just a blast,” he said. “However, I’ve gotten to learn that it’s a bit more than just that this year.”

Helping the Fusion divers master their dives and achieve their goals is diving instructor Mady Brinkman. A former Lady Dutchmen high school diver and gymnast, she won the women’s NCAA Division II 3-meter diving championship last year. From the start, she noted a trait which has helped the corps succeed.

“They come in with a good attitude, and that helps a lot,” she said. “They are willing to listen to anything and everything. Any crazy idea I throw at them, they’re like ‘OK. Sure.’”

Daily practice routines include doing many different dives.

“For me, diving does not stop once you leave the pool,” Stalboerger said. “I am always either thinking about my dives or running through my approach. We probably do around 35 dives in a practice.”

Those dives are watched by either Brinkman or other coaches. Each dive is reviewed and evaluated.

“Mady has been nothing shy of an amazing coach,” Marthaler said. “Not only does she have all the knowledge of a national diver, but she’s really great at motivating and pushing me as a diver too.”

They have learned they will likely get the dive wrong before getting it right and have learned from those attempts.

“You have to have a willingness to try some things because sometimes you will smack,” Meyer said. “You have to be willing to do that, get back up and try it again. That’s part of the attitude you need.”

M-SC: 200MR: 1. Adam Wilwerding, Anderson, Robischon and Eveslage 1 minute and 14.19 seconds. 200FS 4. Fleischhacker 1:55.09, 5. Van Beck 1:55.83 and 13. Sullivan Stumler 2:09.67. 200IM: 2. Robischon 2:05.58, 4. Anderson 2:10.06, 12. Zander Olmschenk 2:33.93 and 13. Hunter Leslie 2:39.53.

Albany girls basketball heads into playoffs with wins

Complete regular season at 25-1

BY MIKE KOSIK STAFF WRITER

The Albany Huskies girls basketball team finished the regular season with a 68-33 win over Little Falls for a 25-1 record Feb. 24 at Little Falls High School in Little Falls.

“The win at Little Falls, to kick off the boy-girl doubleheader for the night, capped off an undefeated season in the Granite Ridge Conference that we are able to win for the fourth year in a row,” said Aaron Boyum, head coach.

Little Falls shot the ball well in the first half, he said.

“Our girls did a great job of responding in the second half and capturing control of the second half early,” Boyum said. “We held Little

Sophia Schiffler looks to pass the ball off to an Albany teammate in a nonconference game against Upsala Feb. 21 at Albany Area High School in Albany. Schiffler, along with Samantha VanHeel, were honored before the game began as the two seniors on the team.

Albany’s Tatum Findley watches her shot against Upsala Feb. 21 at Albany Area High School in Albany. Findley scored 14 points in a convincing 62-29 win.

Falls to eight total points in the second half.”

Next up is the Section 6AA Girls Basketball Tournament. The Huskies received a first-round bye and will open playoffs at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 4, at St. John’s University in Collegeville, facing the winner of the Milaca-Spectrum game.

No other information was available at press time.

Albany 62, Upsala 29

Back in the old District 19 days, the Albany Huskies and Upsala Cardinals often clashed in the playoffs, but

it has been a while since that has happened as each team has gone their own way into different classes and sections.

But, due to weather cancellations and circumstances, the Huskies hosted their former District 19 foes Feb. 2, winning 62-29 at Albany Area High School in Albany.

Albany was originally scheduled to host Minnewaska Area, but due to the impending snowstorm, the Lakers canceled. The same happened to Upsala in its game with Melrose.

With a bus ready to go

and both teams looking for a game, the Cardinals traveled to Albany for an early 4:15 p.m. start.

“It was great to get a game in, especially to get a Senior Night in for both Sophia (Schiffler) and Sam (VanHeel),” said Aaron Boyum, head coach. A short ceremony honoring the team’s only two seniors took place before warmups.

“It was great that this worked out,” Boyum said. Upsala got off to a good start, nailing a 3-pointer for an 3-0 lead, but after breaking a 4-4 knotted game, the Huskies went on 33-12 run to take a halftime advantage of 33-12.

The Huskies expanded the lead to 33 in the eventual final score.

“There were several things we did well and were happy about,” Boyum said. “The good thing about having the game is we also saw some things, areas, opportunities for us to improve and to continue to grow.”

Alyssa Sand led Albany in scoring with 19 points. Kylan Gerads scored 17 and also had 17 rebounds and six assists. Albany had a huge advantage in rebounds with 47

Dynamic Defender clinches state spot

De Los Santos Morales second at sections

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

Junior Jose De Los Santos Morales will represent the Sauk Centre-Melrose Defenders at the Minnesota High School League Class A Wrestling State Tournament March 3-4 at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul.

De Los Santos Morales qualified by finishing second in the Section 8AA Individual Wrestling Tournament Feb. 25 at Detroit Lakes High School in Detroit Lakes.

Lanna Walter, a 120-pound junior, qualified for the Minnesota High School League Girls Wrestling State Tournament in a section contest Feb. 11 in Sartell. The girls tournament will be held the same days as the boys tournament.

De Los Santos Morales (27-11) did not have an easy road to state. He won the 132-pound true second match by a score of 10-4 to

Jose De Los

receiving his second-place medal at the Section 8AA Individual Wrestling Tournament Feb. 25 at Detroit Lakes High School in Detroit Lakes. This will be the second consecutive state appearance for De Los Santos Morales.

qualify. It was the most lopsided of any of his contests, as he grabbed 14-10 and 4-3 wins to reach the championship. There, he was defeated 11-9 by champion Chandler Mickelson (30-9), a junior from Perham. Another Defender, senior heavyweight Will

Sjogren (30-11), reached the championship round after pinning one opponent and winning 8-1 in the semifinals. His opponent in the championship was senior Jeffery Moen (39-2) of Detroit Lakes. Moen, ranked fifth in state, won in 41 seconds.

That loss sent Sjogren to the true second match. As with most of Sjogren’s contests this year, it was close, ending in a 3-1 loss. No other Defenders reached the championship round. Sophomore 32-win wrestler Dominic Kerzman, 113, scored a quarterfinal pin to advance to the semifinals, where he ran into thirdranked, undefeated Parker Zutter of Pequot Lakes-Pine River-Backus, who won by pin. Kerzman scored a 3-2 win in the wrestlebacks before falling in the thirdplace match.

Senior Mitchell Christen, 29-17 at 138 pounds, took fourth place in his division. He found a technical fall win in the quarterfinals and a pin in the wrestlebacks. Ninth graders Noah Christen, 28-18 at 120, and Jonny Lara, 8-15 at 195, earned fifth.

Sophomore Isaac Frericks (23-24) wrestled for fifth at 220 but took sixth place.

De Los Santos Morales page 12

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PHOTO BY MIKE KOSIK

Santos Morales stands on the award podium after

De Los Santos Morales from page

10

Ben Friedrichs went 0-2 and did not place. He lost 3:58, received a bye and lost 3:43. 152: Dan Frericks went 0-2 and did not place. He lost 0:50, received a bye and lost 0:14. 160: Cesar Avalos went 0-2 and did not place. He received a bye, lost 1:38, received a bye and lost 1:09. 195: Lara went 2-2 and took fifth. He received a bye,lost 0:52, received a bye, won 10-4, lost 0:39 and won by injury default. 220: Isaac Frericks went 1-3 and took sixth. He received a bye, lost 9-3, received a bye, won 0:56, lost 3:35 and lost 2:42. 285: Sjogren went 2-2 and took third. He received a bye, won 1:09, won 8-1, lost 0:42 and lost 3-1.

Melrose gymnasts reach competitive conclusion

Althaus medals in final gymnastics meet

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

Melrose Area’s Courtney Althaus walked out of the Roy Wilkins Auditorium in St. Paul following the Minnesota State High School League Class A Girls Gymnastics State Meet Feb. 25 with a state medal around her neck.

She earned it, placing fifth out of 48 competitors on the beam routine. Her 9.375 score was .2 points behind that of the champion.

“The beam has always been a strong suit of mine ever since I was little,” she said. “I always found it a strength.”

Althaus, one of three Lady Dutchmen at the meet, competed as an all-around. Sophomore Maria Hinnenkamp finished 28th on vault at 8.375 and eighth grader Josie Eveslage scored 8.525 to take 36th on the beam.

“They all did really, really well,” said Katie Masog, head coach. “Even though Josie fell on her beam, she got up and did a new skill she had never done in competition before and nailed it. Then, she nailed the rest of the routine. Maria has never done bars at state before, and she’s only done that routine four, maybe five times in meets. Courtney had a great day, with nines in every event.”

Althaus earned a 9.25 on

bars for seventh and finished 32nd in the floor and vault with a 9.025 and a 9.1, respectively. She compiled a 36.65 allaround score, finishing eighth.

The beam was her final routine of a state-caliber career that started in eighth grade. That she medaled says something of her inner drive.

“Kudos to all senior gymnasts,” Masog said. “They had breaks because of COVID-19. It’s hard to do really big skills with the breaks.”

And ever since she was little, Althaus has loved gymnastics. She has been fortunate, except for a broken toe, to not have had a serious injury, and always works at the sport. It was not just the moves and routine; she likes the atmosphere.

“I love the coaches, the teammates and friendships I can make,” she said. “I love being with the little girls and seeing them make accomplishments.”

Not only the younger elementary gymnasts look up to her. Both Hinnenkamp and Eveslage said they will miss her next year.

Hinnenkamp’s season ended in the state bar competition, a respectable finish on an enjoyable day.

“It felt good,” she said. “I like being on the big stage and hearing all the fans cheering for me and my teammates.”

Eveslage was experiencing

Purple Pride

g new people and experiencing new things I wouldn’t normally try.

What is your favorite event of the year? Going to state You get ex tremely close with your chapter and members and you get to meet new people in your competitions

What were you excited about during FFA week? Running our school’s Ag Olympics where we organize students and teachers to participate in ag-related challenges The loser gets to kiss a calf that one of our chapter members brings in

What other activities are you involved in at school? Cross-country, track and field, Letter Club, Captains and Leaders, HITS program

Why is it important for you to be involved in school activities? It teaches how to deal with people and tough situations that you might encounter as an adult, and you meet new people

What do you like most about being on the basketball team? The friendships I have made and being close with my teammates. Everyone is super positive and fun to be around. It makes for a fun atmosphere.

What is your most memorable experience during a game? When Paige Gruber hit a 3-pointer last year against Sauk Centre from the top of the key, and she banked it in. Everyone went wild.

What other activities are you involved in at school? Soccer, track and field, football, National Honor Society, and student council.

What is something you’ve learned in class recently? Parabolas, hyperbolas and ellipses in trigonometry.

and try new things to get out of your comfort zone

What is something you are proud you accomplished so far during the school year, and what are one of your goals in the remainder of the year? Committing to my dream college My goal is to keep my grades up

What is one piece of advice you would give underclassmen to help them excel in academics or athletics? Do not give up You wouldn’t be where you are now if you didn’t believe that you could get this far.

What are you thankful for today? My family. I wouldn’t be any where without them by my side

What are three words that describe your personality? Extrovert, determined and headstrong.

state for the first time. Overall, she was pleased with her routine, except for her early fall. Still, she was smiling when thinking of another part of it.

“I got to do a new skill, so I’m happy with that,” she said. “It’s the one-handed walk over.”

That said, her first state trip will be marked by another image.

“I was seeing Courtney’s last year,” she said.

Masog felt Althaus finished not only the meet well, but also her Melrose body of work. Althaus’s career has been one of perseverance, and the medal rewarded that.

“She was always sweet and worked hard,” Masog said. “Gymnastics was not easy for her. Physically and mentally, she has had ups and downs ever since she was little. She has to be proud of what she did today, this year and her career. It’s been great.”

There were different champions for each routine this year. Reagan Kelley, of Watertown-Mayer, was the all-around (38.3) and vault (38.3) champion, Dakota Esget, of North Branch, won the bars at 9.575, Avery McAllister, of Perham, captured the beam title at 9.575, and Britney Krumrei, of Big Lake, earned the floor championship at 9.6.

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What are you looking forward to the most during the school year? Graduation. I am excited for it to be summer.

How do you try to make a difference at school? Being nice to everyone and making everyone feel like they belong.

What teacher has impacted your education the most? Mr. Chad Wehrman. I am not a very big math person, but he made me like math. He is a very good teacher.

What is your favorite restaurant and the meal you order? Chick-fil-A. I get a No. 1 meal with no pickles, a Dr. Pepper with no ice and four ranch packets.

PHOTO BY HERMAN LENSING

Josie Eveslage (center) salutes the audience as she and teammates Maria Hinnenkamp (left) and Courtney Althaus are introduced at the Minnesota State High School League Class A Girls Gymnastics State Meet Feb. 25 at Roy Wilkins Auditorium in St. Paul. Eveslage competed on the beam, Hinnenkamp on bars and Althaus as an all-around.

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Melrose Area Basketball

Close games and last minute baskets have highlighted the season for the Melrose Area High School boys basketball team. The Dutchmen have earned two wins by more than 20 points, but almost half of its wins were by fewer than 12 points, and three of its losses were by three or fewer points.

Dutchmen defense is often key in deciding the outcomes of games, as it has usually held a team to fewer than 50 points per game. In six games, the team has held opponents to less than 40 points. The offense has just enough scorers to help it score more than 50 points per games. They have had four games scoring 65 or more points.

Outside shooting has produced a number of key 3-point baskets. When defenses focus on stopping those shots, Melrose has the strength and height to go inside.

Disappointing outcomes from inconsistent play have plagued the Melrose Area High School girls basketball team this year. The team has shown it can play good defense with steals, defensive rebounds and blocked shots. In a few games, it has come close to forcing opponents to run out the shot clock.

It has struggled to finish games as late rallies by opponents have run up scores or held off Lady Dutchmen comebacks. The team has had solid runs of its own, making up deficits of seven or more points. Those runs showed it has players who can shoot from the outside, take the ball to the hoop or win battles under the basket. When the team plays to its strengths, it has the potential to hold other teams in check.

Dutchmen

PHOTOS BY ALEE PHOTOGRAPHY

The 2022-23 Melrose Area High School boys basketball team consists of Xavier Ramirez (front, from left), Breydon Dobmeier, Connor Engelmeyer, Darin Huston, Maxwell Wehlage and Samuel Wehlage; (middle, from left) Ethan Frieler, Hunter Goihl, Fernando Estrella Becerra, Isaac Rosenberger, Devin Orbeck, Westin Middendorf and Connor Anderson; (back, from left) head coach Ryan Dusha, assistant coach Ryan Moscho, Jackson Seanger, Ryan Herdering, Gor Ruey, Ian Funk and assistant coaches Shawn Mayers and Josh Meyer.

The 2022-23 Melrose Area High School girls basketball team consists of Jenna Finken (front, from left), Alexa Toenyan, Madelyn Kuechle, Ellie Heller and Nora Schwieters; (middle, from left) Isabella Jaenicke, Courtney Revering, Jazmin Finken and Ria Nelson; (back, from left) head coach Evan Reller, Kaydence Bertram, Paige Gruber, Avery Birch and assistant coaches Jordan Welle and Kyle Shaughnessy.