Sauk Centre Herald 03-23-2023

Laws for learning

Peschel reviews state’s schoolfocused bills

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

A wide range of education bills are moving through the Minnesota Legislature, and if passed, they could affect Sauk Centre Public Schools’ programming, class sizes and disciplinary measures.

During their March 20 regular meeting in the media center, Superintendent Don Peschel brought to the school board’s attention a number of bills that had passed or were being considered in the legislature.

First on the list was the bill providing free breakfast and lunch for all Minnesota students, regardless of income. The bill was recently passed with bipartisan support and signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz, and it will be starting in the 2023-24 school year. In Walz’s supplementary budget, additional recommendations will cover the impact of the program on compensatory funding, as well as the implementation of unemployment insurance a year earlier than expected, at the cost of an additional $135.6 million.

In education, the state’s House Education Policy Committee considered the Holocaust and Genocide Education Act March 15. The bill would require schools to offer Holocaust and genocide education as part of their social studies curriculum. The Read Act was another recently-heard bill, and it is an initiative to improve reading funding and test scores.

Another potential bill that could be heard by the legislature would require schools to offer personal finance courses. Whether or not that moves ahead, Peschel said the schools need to establish a business department.

“We need to do something business-wise,” Peschel said. “I don’t think we can get our ducks in a row for next year, but moving forward – 2024-25 – I would like to have a business department in place, depending on the budget, and that will create a domino effect for other programming … and that would shrink some of our class size issues.”

Those class size problems are prevalent in other Minnesota schools as well, and the state is looking into legislation to mitigate that.

On March 17, the state’s Education Finance Committee heard a bill mandating class size ratios, requiring districts to hire additional teachers in order to reduce class sizes. The bill would require a 20% increase in the basic education formula, a $1,373 value, although it is unlikely the formula would happen this year.

More education mandates are included in policy bills, including a move to ban suspensions as a form of discipline in kindergarten through third grade, replacing them with non-exclusionary discipline. While the bill’s advo-

History in the curating

Klaphake succeeds Schloegl as museum director

BY BEN SONNEK | STAFF WRITER

Jim Schloegl has served as the Sauk Centre Area History Museum’s director for the past five years, but as of March 3, he has handed on the position to another longtime volunteer, Marilyn Klaphake.

“I’m glad we found someone who’s very capable and very interested and has demonstrated such great ability,” Schloegl said. “I don’t even have to think twice.”

As she settles into her role as museum director, Klaphake looks at her position as that of a caretaker, just like those who came before her.

“You’re a steward, just like the famer is a steward of the land,” she said. “You’re the caretaker of the records and trying to organize and preserve it for the next generation or the next person who steps up.”

Schloegl started his history career around 1976 working with genealogists in the St. Cloud area. Through his involvement with them, he knew what was happening with the region’s historical societies. He moved to Melrose and started helping with the Melrose Area Historical Society, also volunteering at the Stearns County Fair in Sauk Centre.

When Schloegl heard about Sauk Centre’s open museum director position, he and Klaphake applied at the same time. Schloegl was accepted and entered the new position fall of 2018.

In his five years as museum director, Schloegl has overseen a good deal of organization with the Sauk Centre Area Historical Society’s collections of items and documents.

Historical society page 3

Biofuel company interested in Sauk Centre

City members to visit plant in Denmark

BY BEN SONNEK | STAFF

Members of Sauk Centre’s Economic and Development Authority will soon be traveling to Denmark to see whether or not the city would benefit from the addition of a biogas plant. Nature Energy, an energy company in Denmark, has been branching its services into North America, and areas they are researching are in Wisconsin and Minnesota communities such as Melrose, Freeport, Paynesville, Benson and Sauk Centre. Stearns Coun-

ty is known for having plenty of cows and dairy farms, and Nature Energy is interested in turning the farms’ manure into biofuel.

“The large dairies can do a little biogas converter right on site. This (plant) is more designed for smaller dairies, under 500 or 1,000 (cows),” Sauk Centre City Administrator Vicki Willer said March 16. “They’ll go to the farm, take (manure) out of the pit and take it to a plant.”

The Nature Energy plant would also offer farmers the byproducts of the biogas conversion, such as dry bedding and nutrient-dense liquid manure for efficient land application. The biogas from the plant would be available as part of the area’s natural gas resources. The process is designed to have minimal environmental impact, including in terms of noise or scent.

If established, the facility would likely be placed near the edge of city limits and have access to city utilities. The most probable location would be on or around Sauk Centre South Industrial Park.

Nature Energy has invited city members to visit their facilities in Denmark, and EDA member Jean Marthaler and councilmember and EDA member Heidi Leach have agreed to go. The trip will take place around the last week of March.

“It’s good to have someone there to ask questions, and those two will ask good questions,” Willer said. “They’re not just there for a tour. I’m really glad they’re the two who could go.”

The Sauk Centre City Council, during their March 15 meeting at Sauk Centre City Hall, approved Leach and Marthaler’s out-of-state travel.

Biofuel page 3

Padua’s Irish chill chill

WRITER

PHOTO BY BEN SONNEK

(Above) The St. Patrick’s Day parade begins along County Highway 18 March 17 in Padua. In spite of the below-freezing temperatures, blowing snow and slick roads, hundreds still came to the Padua Pub for St. Patrick’s Day.

(Right) With his green beard, shamrock hat and celebratory sign, Jim McMahon from Glenwood comes to Padua Pub ready for St. Patrick’s Day March 17 in Padua.

PHOTO BY BEN SONNEK

Marilyn Klaphake (left) and Jim Schloegl pause their work for a moment at the Sauk Centre Area History Museum March 10 in Sauk Centre. Klaphake has been the museum’s new director as of March 3.

St. Patrick’s Day page 2

Three injured during Highway 71 rollover SAUK CENTRE TOWNSHIP – Three juveniles, including a 16-year-old driver and 14- and 17-year old passengers, were injured following a one vehicle rollover, around 8 p.m., March 17, in Sauk Centre Township.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the driver of the Chevy Silverado was traveling north on Highway 71when the vehicle left the snow and ice covered road and rolled in the ditch. All three occupants were transported by Sauk Centre ambulance to CentraCare-Sauk Centre Hospital in Sauk Centre with what was believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.

Sauk Centre police and Stearns County deputies assisted at the scene.

Padua holds 43rd annual parade, celebration

parade

Str eeter Streeter

Proudly Sponsored by Ben

Anderson

Parents: Luke and Tiffany Anderson.

Accomplishment: Is a member of the Sauk Centre Track and Field Team that started practice March 13.

What do you enjoy most about being on the track team? I enjoy the team aspect as well as the feeling of individual accomplishment after winning races.

What is your favorite event to compete in? My favorite event is triple jump because Nathan Lahr and I always compete with each other to get the best jump.

Tell us about the best meet you have ever been a part of. Two years ago, at Wheaton for sections. We were the section champs and had a grand celebration.

What other activities are you involved in at school? I am involved in XC, student council and captains and leaders.

Why do you feel it’s important to be involved in school activities? It is important in order to stay active and form bonds with classmates.

What is your favorite Streeter tradition? Canoeing across Fairy Lake to try to beat Brandon Kampsen’s laps time.

How do you try to make a difference at school? “You inspire others.” ~Brandon Kampsen

What teacher has impacted your education the most? Mr. Ross. Because of him, I never have homework for any class.

What is something you’ve learned in class recently? The second derivative of a function which finds acceleration.

What is one item on your bucket list? To be on TV.

March 17 in Padua. Even temperatures that dropped below zero with wind chill could not stop the fun.

The Shay family - Arleen (from left), Anna, Patrick, Amy and Henry - come to Padua Pub in style for the green beer and the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations March 17 in Padua. The Shays came from Albany and Chaska for the 43rd annual parade and Irishthemed camaraderie.

Travis Ahrens (left) and Clara Rooney bring up the rear of the St. Patrick’s Day parade, thanking everyone for braving the elements and coming to the 43rd annual celebration March 17 in Padua. Dave and Clara Rooney are the Padua Pub’s proprietors; the Rooney homestead turned

City approves short-term rental code

Moratorium on vacation properties lifted

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

Now that the city has established its regulations for short-term rentals, Sauk Centre’s moratorium on these properties will no longer be in effect.

Sauk Centre City Council members, during their March 15 meeting at Sauk Centre City Hall, approved an amendment to the city code, establishing regulations governing the use of residential properties as vacation short-term rentals. These regulations were reviewed and recommended by the city’s Planning Commission at their March 14 meeting.

One addition by the council forbids the establishment of a short-term vacation rental within 300 feet of the property line of an existing short-term vacation rental.

“The Planning Commission went with the 300 feet from the property line because (residents) are living in a residential area for a residential feel,” Sauk Centre Mayor Warren Stone said. “We don’t want to ruin the aspect of that whole neighborhood by having shortterm rentals sitting side-by-side all the way down the block.”

Other main features of the ordinance include the following:

– An interim use permit

from the city is required, and the permit is not transferable if the property is bought by a new owner. A lodging permit from the county is also required.

– Only one short-term rental is allowed per parcel, which must be zoned Residential-1.

– Quiet time hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. must be enforced.

– Parking for renters must be off-street.

– No campers can be used as rentals.

– Minimum lot sizes will be enforced.

– Garbage, recycling and other refuse must be in an enclosed area.

– An emergency contact must be available.

– Rentals will be subject to the lodging tax.

Three violations of the city’s short-term rental code could constitute a potential permit revocation.

“They have to be legitimate complaints, basically from the police,” Stone said. “It can’t be the next-door neighbor calling in and complaining it’s noisy. Police or emergency personnel have to go over there and see something.”

The city has 10 existing short-term rentals. Any potential variations these rentals may have from the lot size and 300foot separation requirements will be grandfathered in as long as they comply with the rest of the ordinances within the next six months.

The city’s moratorium on short-term rentals was established in August 2022 as the county was preparing its own

School board from front

cates for ending suspensions assert students need to be in the classroom, Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association Executive Director Roger Aronson believes teachers will be challenged by student behavior if this ban is enacted.

Finally, having heard the governor’s budget proposals

March 15, the EFC heard a bill to create a new state department, the Department of Children, Youth and Families. The bill moved through the committee relatively easily.

Other school board news:

– Transportation Director Jon Fevig recommended replacing three of the schools’ oldest diesel buses with new propane buses. The two propane buses the schools currently run have not had winter problems and are cheaper to maintain than diesel or gas buses. Additionally, while it took a year for the current

propane buses to come in after ordering, the turnaround time now for propane buses appears to be about four months.

– According to Principal Sheila Flatau, the school is anticipating 106 10th graders in the 2023-24 school year, a sharp increase from the 87 10th graders this year. Flatau asserted they could not be handled in three sections per quarter, and they would have to be increased to four sections per quarter. She is also researching programs to make seventh grade study time more intentional, as the students are still coping with the learning loss from the interrupted 2020-21 school year.

– Consulting firm SitelogIQ updated the board on their furniture selection process and their updated potential schedule for the schools’ renovation. The bidding phase has been completed, and a final proposal for the project’s first phase is coming

Historical society from front

“We’ve had things that were piled and not sorted,” Schloegl said. “We found the resources to get the volunteers to do the sorting and organizing and that type of stuff. From there, it’s moved on to different stages, and we’re still far from where we need to be, but we certainly have pigeonholed a lot of stuff. … I have a cluttered desktop because there are always things that are pending, and they cover such a wide spectrum of topics.”

Schloegl worked at the museum three days a week while Klaphake worked two. They did not cross paths often, although Schloegl has seen the effects of her assistance.

“She has been so instrumental, working with the volunteers, organizing and creating files and breaking files down, keeping all that very organized,” Schloegl said. “Now, we can go to one thing and point in a general area; before, it was here and there.”

On her end, Klaphake has worked on family history projects all of her life. Around 1980, she got deeper into research on her family tree.

“I’ve got all my families lined up at home in doing my own research,” Klaphake said. “I know the area – not Sauk Centre so much because we farmed by Melrose.”

Klaphake’s family eventually moved to Sauk Cen-

short-term rental ordinances. Now that the county and city have their ordinances established, the moratorium will be lifted.

Other city council news:

– The Sinclair Lewis Library suffered a boiler malfunction March 6. The building is now running on only one of its two boilers, but according to Public Works Director Ben Clink, this should not represent a problem as the seasonal temperatures have been increasing.

– City Planner Sarah Morton reported the Planning Commission issued eight permits during February, representing a total value of $83,742.

– The Sauk Centre Park Board recently reviewed options for a memorial wall in Sinclair Lewis Park. The wall would have etched metallic leaves as memorials. The board also discussed planning for future trails and Sinclair Lewis Park fountain replacement.

– Approved the appointment of Sauk Centre Police Department part-time officer Preston Oetterer as a full-time officer. Oetterer also plans to work as a Sauk Centre school resource officer. The city’s 2023 budget for patrol officers includes the addition of an officer.

– Approved a city code amendment to increase the height limit of structures in the industrial-commercial zoning district from 50 feet to 80 feet, although fire suppression measures and proximity to the Sauk Centre Municipal Airport will also be gauged.

– Approved an interfund

soon.

– Approved the audio enhancement bid from Tech Check for $704,163.78, followed by the removal of $384.30 from that amount due to an order change. The audio enhancement will cover four to six new speakers for each classroom, new screens and a new bell and paging system. The board also approved a cabling bid from Electrical Production Services for the installation of elementary school, Margaret Shelby Theatre and fiber backbone network infrastructure, at a cost of $78,979, as well as the high school network infrastructure at a $110,858 cost.

– Awarded the sale of building bonds to financial services company Baird at a 2.81% interest rate.

– Approved a consulting contract with John Messer, pending final comments from Pemberton Law.

– Approved the hiring of elementary paraprofessional Yasmeen Soto. In his report, Peschel said he was thinking

ment,” Schloegl said. “The thing is, she’s been managing the same people I manage, so it’s not any different.”

transfer of $375,000 from the city’s hospital fund to the general fund.

– Approved easements and waivers for the property owners bordering the Authors Addition residential development, allowing the city to move back into properties to accomplish a smooth transition from the properties onto the new streets. The city also approved a policy on assessments for properties affected by the Authors Addition. Because the project is adding new water and sewer lines instead of replacing them, those services will be assessed at a 35% rate – like the street, curb, gutter and sidewalk assessments – instead of 100%.

– Approved the appointment of Thomas “Sam” Barhorst to one of two open positions on the Park Board. The position has a two-year term and will expire Dec. 31, 2024.

– Approved the Stearns County’s All Hazard Mitigation Plan. By adopting the plan, the city becomes eligible to apply for grant funds to address disaster concerns identified in the plan; the funds are made available through the state following federally declared disasters. The city has been a part of the SCAHMP for several years.

– The city will be interviewing potential long-term rental property inspectors Thursday, March 23.

The next city council meeting will be at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 5, at City Hall.

about implementing a paraprofessional mentoring program next year to help decrease turnover. He has spoken to retired paraprofessionals who are interested in the initiative.

– Approved the resignations of elementary paraprofessional Cassidy Holmquist, math teacher Emily Reller, Special Education/Title I teacher Amy Moldenhauer and elementary teacher Trent Johnson.

– Approved the retirement of elementary paraprofessional Joyce Sabrowsky.

– Approved the following donations: a Phillips onsite automated external defibrillator from the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office, $250 from the Sauk Centre Gobblers Chapter for the schools’ archery program and $1,000 from Mark, Sara, Nora and Hazel Thompson for the Margaret Shelby Theatre’s audio-visual system.

The next school board regular meeting will be at 6:30 p.m., Monday, April 17, in the media center.

Biofuel from front

tre, and after applying for the museum director position, Klaphake volunteered as a curator.

“I have a lot of sleepless nights where I dream about this place, but Jim’s been great,” Klaphake said. “He’s taught me everything I know on the computer. He’s really accommodating with being a good resource, and I’ve got some good volunteers out here too. We’re like family. It’s a fun place to be.”

Having worked in many different areas, Marilyn is suited to take on the museum’s management, by Schloegl’s estimation.

“I just gave her the whole archival box so she’s got the whole thing in one book, and the rest has all been manage-

Schloegl will continue to work under Klaphake as a volunteer, coming in every so often to assist.

Moving ahead, the SCAHS hopes to continue turning the former Sauk Centre creamery building into their new space, but more immediately, Klaphake hopes to bring more Sauk Centre people in to the museum.

“The last several years I’ve worked here, I’ve talked to some people from around the world who come here to talk and see about Sinclair Lewis or to see the museum, or they lived here or their families did or they’re passing through,” she said. “I’ve talked to so many people who actually live in Sauk Centre who do not realize we exist.”

Doug Fuchs

The cost is to be paid by the EDA fund and is estimated, per person, at $1,206.66 for airfare and $750 for hotels. Nature Energy will provide daily breakfasts and bus transportation.

Friends of the Library Meeting: March 30, 4 p.m. in the library basement.

We are a nonprofit organization that promotes the library in the community. We welcome new members.

Little Sauk American Legion Fish Fry Specials: Every Friday during lent from 5-8 p.m. Hosted by the Little Sauk American Legion Auxiliary.

Pins and Needles Quilters Monthly Meeting: Second Tuesday of the Month, 7-9 p.m. at the Sauk Centre Senior Center, 321 4th St. N. Our goal is to promote the art of quilt making at all skill levels by discussion, lessons, and show and tell of your projects at our meetings. We welcome new members.

Catholic in Recovery/All Addictions Anonymous (CIR/AAA): Held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday each month at 1 p.m. starting in Feb. 2023. Located at Centre for Christ.

DivorceCare: Support for those going through a separation and/ or divorce, meeting every Thursday for 13 weeks at 6 p.m. beginning Thursday, Feb. 23. Located at Centre for Christ.

GriefShare: Offering support for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. Meeting every Tuesday for 13 weeks at 6 p.m. beginning Feb. 21. Located at Centre for Christ.

Little Sauk Legion Auxiliary Unit 417 Meeting: Second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Little Sauk Legion. New members welcome!

Mental Health Support Group: Fridays from 2-4 p.m. at the Palmer House. We welcome anyone who suffers with mental health issues. Any questions, please contact Richard at (320) 260-4233.

Sauk Centre History Museum and Research Center: Museum hours are Sunday and Monday - closed, Tuesday 1-5 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday 1-5 p.m., Friday 12-4 p.m. Located in the Sinclair Lewis Library building at 430 Main Street. Any questions, please call (320) 351-8777.

Mental Health Crisis Line: (320) 253-5555 or (800) 635-8008. Crisis Response Team for Benton, Sherburne, Stearns and Wright counties.

AA Meetings: Thursdays, 11 a.m. at United Church of Christ in Sauk Centre. For more information, call (320) 429-1620. AA and Al-Anon 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays in Sauk Centre at United Church of Christ. Back to Basic Meeting, Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at Tutti Fruitti in Sauk Centre. For more information, call (218) 240-1076. Wednesdays Big Book Meeting at 7 p.m., Civic Center, Melrose. For more information, call (320) 241-3909.

NA Meetings: Mondays, 7 p.m. at River of Life Church, Sauk Centre and Fridays at 11 a.m. at Eagle’s Healing Nest Chapel, Sauk Centre.

Alzheimer’s Support Group: The support group for people caring for someone with memory loss holds monthly meetings every fourth Thursday of the month from 10-11:30 a.m. at Alternative Senior Care, 418 10th St. S, Sauk Centre. For more information, call (320) 352-3350.

BELGRADE

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES CATHOLIC CHURCH 541 Martin Ave. | PO Box 69 320-254-8218 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes

ELROSA

STS. PETER AND PAUL CATHOLIC CHURCH 302 State St. 320-254-8218 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes

BROOTEN

ST. DONATUS CATHOLIC CHURCH 301 Eastern Ave. 320-254-8218 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes

WEST UNION ST. ALEXIUS CATHOLIC CHURCH 11 Oak St. S 320-352-2563 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes

SAUK CENTRE

FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH 124 4th St. N 320-352-5356 faithbc.org

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH 304 Elm St. S 320-352-3623 flcsauk.com

FIRST UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 620 5th St. S 320-352-2030

OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS CATHOLIC CHURCH Ash St. and 7th St. 320-352-2196 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes

ST. PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 304 Sinclair Lewis Ave. 320-352-2196 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 504 Elm St. S 320-352-2827 saukcentreumc.org

ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH 316 Maple St. 320-352-3447 www.facebook.com/ zionlutheransaukcentre H41-R B

If you would like parishioners to see your church here, please contact Robin at 320-351-7837

POLICE ACTIVITY Sauk

Centre

‘One size cannot fit all’

Schmit talks about work culture to business leaders

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

Nearly 100 members of Sauk Centre’s business community braved the blizzard and came to American Legion Post 67 in Sauk Centre March 16 to hear a talk from Joe Schmit –author, award-winning broadcaster, keynote speaker and community leader – about the importance of a culture-first mindset for a company. Far from leaving his audience to passively listen, though, Schmit made sure to involve attendees in exercises aimed at strengthening them as leaders.

The Sauk Centre Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the event, and lunch was provided courtesy of the American Legion.

Schmit began his talk with the claim that 90% of businesses today are facing the same problem: recruiting and retaining talent. For Schmit, the way to alleviate that problem in one’s business is to focus on the company’s culture over its strategy, its people before its profits.

“When you put people over profits, the byproduct always becomes wild success, wow customer service, loyal customers and employees who want to be there, be productive, be valued and be a part of it,” Schmit said. “That’s what a culture can do for an organization.”

The three traits Schmit

identified for a successful company were purpose, persistence and passion, and he addressed each one in turn. For the first activity, Schmit handed out bingo sheets to attendees. The boxes had traits, such as ‘Star Wars’ fan and married high school sweetheart. His game was for each person to find others in the room who had traits that matched their card. The exercise challenged attendees to better connect with their employees, coworkers and peers, because investing in people, showing them their impor-

tance, is necessary for them to feel purpose in their work.

“As a leader, one size cannot fit all,” Schmit said.

“You’ve got to figure out what makes that person tick; that’s what’s very important.”

Other exercises Schmit had for attendees included brainstorming for leadership qualities, coming up with a triple play worksheet – identifying what behaviors need to stop, what behaviors need to be started or continued and what the long-term effects of these actions could be – and filling out who everybody considered

to be on their Mount Rushmore of influence.

Schmit emphasized the need for positivity and preparedness for being the best in one’s given field.

“The Declaration of Independence gives us certain unalienable rights: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” Schmit said. “We’re all doing well at life; we’re on the right side of the ground. The USA isn’t perfect, but we do have liberty, but sometimes where we fail is our pursuit of happiness, and happiness is 100% our choice. Happiness is one thing we can control.”

As one example of how a seemingly minor positive interaction could have long-lasting effects, Schmit told the story of how Minnesota Twins player Joe Mauer sat with a blind classmate when they were in high school. That action by Mauer would one day indirectly inspire the Elk River-based mental health support program Thumbs Up.

In conclusion, Schmit summarized the need for a positive work culture, which can not only strengthen the dedication of businesses but also reaffirm their general community.

“It’s not about other people liking you; that’s not it at all,” Schmit said. “It’s about them liking themselves, and if you are the person to help make that happen, guess what, some day, when they have to fill out their Mount Rushmore of influence, your name will be on there.”

While the audience greatly enjoyed his talk, Schmit made sure to conclude his speech on time because he had to return to the Twin Cities in time for the 6 p.m. news and, as he put it, “I didn’t bring my snowmobile.”

Stellar speaking in Sauk Rapids

MIDMNSPORTS gives you up-to-date information on all the Melrose and Sauk Centre high school athletics.

Go to MIDMNSPORTS.COM

MIDMNSPORTS has the live stream of the next game, watch your favorite team “live” with Mark Knoblauch on MIDMNSPORTS. Facebook.com/Midmnsports @MidMNSports

Speech team earns awards at March 4 meet

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

Sauk Centre High School’s speech team’s track record of placing and earning trophies continued with their most recent meet March 4 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. The team brought home the first-place trophy for medium-sized schools, as well as the strength of team trophy and many individual awards.

“I felt extraordinarily proud of my peers,” said Noah Campbell, freshman team member. “I’m looking forward to subsections

and any other competition I might make it to.”

For senior speech team member Hailey Hokanson, the March 4 meet was one of her best experiences she has had in speech so far.

“When I was younger, I never would’ve expected that I’d one day get first place at this meet,” Hokanson said. “When they announced I had taken first in drama, it felt like I had made my eighth grade self proud. After winning that, getting two first place trophies as a school was just the icing on the cake.”

Bunches of bananas were also given out at the

meet.

“I truly have no idea why there were bananas,” said Annie Sorenson, head coach.

Thirty schools participated at the March 4 meet, all in varying sizes.

For Campbell, the highlight was watching his teammates – juniors Luke Middendorf and Chris Polipnick – give their final duo improv performance. Hokanson enjoyed competing alongside fellow senior Sydney Zollman.

“I didn’t think I would get to do speech with her this year,” Hokanson said. “Getting to compete and succeed with her at this meet was so much fun.”

Hokanson did get worried, though, while waiting for the final results to be released.

“Sauk Rapids does a really dramatic poster drop that makes everyone anxious,” she said. “Waiting for results to be released with everyone else in the cafeteria brought the stress level up significantly. After seeing that I (placed) in two events, it felt like a huge weight was lifted off of my shoulders.”

Campbell also got nervous while waiting for the

results.

“Waiting for the banners to drop was super nerve-wracking,” he said. “I would have preferred just a regular email.”

Their March 11 home meet at Sauk Centre High School was canceled due to weather; there would have been 10 teams competing. Weather also canceled the team’s March 16 nine-team conference meet at West Central High School in Barrett.

“It’s not possible to reschedule speech meets,” Sorenson said. “There are only so many Saturdays during the season, and schedules are typically made prior to the start of the season.”

By Sorenson’s estimation, the speech team has grown exponentially in size and talent in the last few years, and she knows they all are looking forward to the rest of the year’s competitions.

“(There are) just a handful of invitationals remaining, as well as subsections, sections and state speech,” Sorenson said. “They have been doing really well and are hoping to keep this momentum going through the post-season.”

PHOTO BY BEN SONNEK

Joe Schmit talks to a filled American Legion Post 67 March 16 for the Sauk Centre Area Chamber of Commerce’s Third Thursday event in Sauk Centre. Schmit spoke about the importance of having a positive and supportive work culture.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Sauk Centre High School speech team – senior Sydney Zollman (front, from left), senior Hailey Hokanson, eighth grader Nora Thompson and junior Christopher Polipnick; (middle, from left) freshman Julia Wehrman, freshman Olivia Marsh, freshman Anastasia Polipnick, junior Abigail Masog, sophomore Sarah Trebus, junior Victoria Marthaler, junior Serena Middendorf and junior Luke Middendorf; and (back, from left) freshman Maizie Jennissen, assistant coach Shalon Wilber and freshman Noah Campbell – display their awards, including prize bananas, after competing at their March 4 speech meet at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. The team won the first-place trophy for medium-sized schools and the strength of team trophy.

Tax time, surprises and so much fun

It’s that time of year again, tax time, and this year is proving to be extra fun. Recently, Shawn and I met with our CPA. Cue the inevitable groans that come with this annual task. This year, someone other than Shawn and I decided to claim one of our children on their taxes. Let’s just say this is adding a few extra “fun” moments to our otherwise uneventful tax returns. Typically, tax season isn’t too unbearable due in large part to our great CPA, Tyler. Thanks, Tyler. Shawn and I are so grateful for your help in navigating our current mess.

Kayla’s Korner by Kayla Hunstiger

While taking a few extra phone calls to work on the resolution to our issue, our children got to listen in on their fair share of the fun. After about the second or third phone call, our eldest child asked if someone was trying to steal one of them. This took me by surprise. My thought process hadn’t gone down the rabbit hole of all the possible thoughts our children might have about the situation at hand.

Honestly, it shouldn’t have surprised me. When I was 10 years old, my mother and grandmother took me out for an afternoon coffee, pop and pie treat at Truckers Inn. They both sat on one side of the table and I on the other. We talked for a few minutes and then, with the largest smile possible on my mother’s face, she asked me, “Would you like to be adopted?”

Now let me rewind a little and explain. My moth-

er was engaged to her now-husband, and he wanted to adopt me when he married my mother. This was a great idea. He had always been there for both my mother and I, and I couldn’t think of a better man to call Dad.

However, as a 10-year-old, I had only ever heard of adoption in the sense that you go live with someone other than your biological parent(s), and I wanted no part of that. So, of course, I started bawling. This caught my mother and grandmother completely off guard. They looked at each other and then back at me in disbelief. Both concerned about my reaction, they asked almost in unison, “What’s the matter?”

Through tear-filled eyes and saddened breath, I said, “I don’t want to live with someone else.”

All of the sudden, it was like a rainbow peeking through the clouds after a rain shower; my mother grabbed my hand and kindly explained what she meant. Mark wanted to adopt me in addition to marrying her, and we would all live together.

A sigh of relief rushed over me, and I then realized why my mother and grandmother were so happy. They didn’t want to get rid of me after all.

I guess it just goes to show that we can’t read each other’s minds. That is a very important point to remember when we get an unexpected reaction from someone.

Goodbyes and memories

Everyone has a person in their life who supports them no matter what. This person puts a smile on their face no matter what the circumstance is while giving the best hugs at the same time. For me, this was my Grandpa Larry, a man I’ve looked up to my entire life (both literally and figuratively as I’m very short). I couldn’t imagine a life without him nor a sports season where he isn’t in the stands.

However, it seems that I will now have to. This past Sunday, Grandpa was called home to heaven. When the news broke, it felt like the world stopped for my siblings and me. But, after tears were shed and hearts were broken, it seemed fitting to recount his life together as a family. We had so many positive memories of him that it wouldn’t seem fair to simply focus on the sadness.

My grandpa made the best chocolate chip cookies ever. Now, this may sound a little biased, but I have yet to eat a cookie that beats his. He attended almost all of my home tennis matches and softball games on his golf cart outside the fence. Then afterwards, he’d give me a big hug, tell me I played great regardless of the outcome and would sometimes hand me a bag of the coveted cookies.

Besides being my biggest fan, he cheered on another team: the Green Bay Packers. As mentioned in a previous article, I’m a huge Packers fan, which I blame him

for. Watching games on Sundays at his house have been some of my favorite childhood memories, especially on the games where they’d win a big matchup. He’d grown up in Wisconsin and would talk to me about living in the land of the green and gold, so much so that he influenced my decision to attend a college in Wisconsin when the time came to make a postsecondary plan. We would joke that I wouldn’t get ridiculed as much for wearing my Packers sweatshirt if I was in the neighboring state. I can’t wait to be living in his childhood state for the next four years.

Above all, Grandpa Larry was a family man. His personality would turn into that of a 5-year-old whenever he’d play games with my siblings, cousins and me. He’d make time for each one of us while still enjoying time with his children, wife and in-laws. He was happiest playing games and being competitive while wearing his famous “I Love My Grandkids” shirt.

Losing someone is never easy, especially when it’s someone you’re extremely close to. It seems unfair and impossible to move on, but it’ll get better. My dad recently told me, “We wish we would’ve had more time with him, but God blessed us with getting to know him for all those years,” and I take that phrase to heart. Everyone in their life should get to have someone who makes them feel happy and loved. After all, while life may be short, love and memories last forever.

To be –or not to be – a senior citizen

It used to be when I checked out at a grocery store on a Wednesday, which is senior citizen day at this particular business, and the clerk asked me if I qualified for that discount, I would tell them no. Even though I had hit that milestone, I wasn’t ready to admit to the clerk – and myself – that I was old enough, until I couldn’t tell that little white lie to the clerk behind the counter because chances are she knew I was old enough. I guess my graying hair was a dead giveaway, even though I know people who have grayed before they hit the magic age of 60. After that, it has been a piece of cake to admit my age and accept the discount. With the increasing price of groceries, every penny – in my pocket – counts.

Recently, on a Wednesday, I was walking out of the store and realized I hadn’t been given the senior citizen discount. Normally, I am asked or the clerk just knows since I’m a frequent flyer at the grocery store. I even mentioned it to a different clerk, who said she could give it to me, but I said, “No, thanks.”

My, how times had changed in my mind about accepting that discount – and admitting I’m a senior citizen. It got me thinking just what is considered old these days. There is a difference when you ask a young child or an adult. I know people who are close to 80 and act 40 and vice versa. But then again, how does a person act when they are 40 or 80, for that matter? It’s all in the mind and body of the individual person. There are days I feel older than 66, and thankfully, most days I feel younger. When I was 20, 30 or even 40, 60 seemed a long ways away, and anyone I knew at age 60 or beyond was old.

Not anymore.

At age 50, friends held a surprise birthday party for me at one of the liquor establishments. Even my parents, who didn’t frequent bars, were there – and it was a 20-below-zero February night. I often think of that night and the fun (maybe too much fun) I had. I’m grateful my friends held the party when they did, almost two months before my milestone birthday – if it would have been held closer to my April 7 birthday, Dad would not have been there because he passed away unexpectedly less than a month after the party.

Turning 50 really didn’t bother me, but hitting 60 sure did. I don’t have any explanation why because it wasn’t like I was suffering from any medical issues. It must have been all in my mind. But after I scratched off lottery tickets gifted to me by a friend and won $120, my birthday was much better.

Before Christmas, my sister-in-law, Barb, stopped over at my house with her grandson, Bryson. He found the Candyland game and wanted Barb and me to play it – on the floor. We got down on the floor just fine, but getting back up was another story. Picture Barb and me crawling over to the couch, using the couch to slowly work our way up to a standing position. That from two women who, years ago, were limber enough to play softball numerous times a week and on weekends.

Sunday, I found out Debbie Gieske had passed away. At age 53, she was a woman who, despite her challenges, lived life not bothered by her disabilities or her age. I would bet it wasn’t easy for her to move to Pine Villa Care Center when she was close to 40. Did she let that get her down? No way. When Mom was in the nursing home, Debbie was her next door neighbor, so I had frequent visits with Debbie, who was the perfect advocate for herself. She treasured card games she hosted at a community room at the care center, with a room filled with Minnesota Twins memorabilia; she looked forward to trips to Minneapolis to watch the Twins, and she was a frequent traveler outside around the CentraCare-Melrose campus in her motorized scooter.

We should all just be grateful we are the age we are, when we are that age. It sure beats the alternative – being 6 feet under.

When it’s time for you to admit you are old enough to receive senior citizen discounts, go for it. We never know how long we will be able to take advantage of those few perks in life.

I am a senior citizen and proud of it – I think.

Life Hacks

By Missy Traeger

How

Monday. Exceptions are obituaries and reports of weekend events, which have a deadline of 10 a.m. Tuesday. The deadline for advertisements in the Herald is noon on Tuesday, in the Shopper noon on Wednesday and Classy Canary noon on Thursday.

Letters: Letters to the editor and other opinion articles are welcomed. Letters must be signed with first and last name and include address and phone number. Letters should be short and to the point. We reserve the right to edit lengthy letters.

Corrections/Clarifications: The Herald strives for accuracy. If you would like to report a factual error, please call 352-6577.

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Kathy Banke..........................................Bookkeeping

Mike Imdieke ........................................Bookkeeping

Hok’s View by Hailey Hokanson

From the Heart by Carol Moorman

Debra A. Gieske

Debra A. “Debbie” Gieske, 53, of Melrose, passed away surrounded by her family and nursing home family March 17, 2023, at CentraCare Care Center in Melrose.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, March 23, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with the Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. The Mass will be live streamed and can be viewed on the YouTube channel Church of St. Mary Melrose.

Debra Ann Gieske

Larry Hokanson

Larry Hokanson, 74 of Sauk Centre, passed away March 19, 2023. He had a wonderful morning of getting the paper, attending church and visiting the local golf course before an unexpected heart attack ended his life of service.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., Friday, March 24, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with the Rev. Mark Botzet officiating. Military honors will be by the Sauk Centre United Veterans Honor Guard. Visitation will be 9–10:45 a.m., March 24, at the church in Sauk Centre.

A private inurnment will be on Monday, March 27, in the parish cemetery.

Larry was born July 6, 1948, in Webster, Wisconsin. He graduated from high school in 1966, and that summer went to basic training at Fort Polk in Louisiana. He then went to Fort Huachuca in Arizona where he was trained to be a radio operator for the Army. In February 1967, a helicopter

Betty (Elizabeth)

Asfeld

Betty Elizabeth (McCann) Asfeld, 86, passed away peacefully March 21, 2023, in Melrose.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 25, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre. Visitation will be from 9–10:45 a.m., preceding Mass at the church.

Debra A. Gieske

was born Nov. 1, 1969, in Melrose to Valentine and Louise (Tiemann) Gieske. She

graduated from Melrose High School in 1988. She lived and helped on the family farm north of Melrose for many years. She moved to Pine Villa Care Center in Melrose where she was a resident for the last 16 years. She became family to those that work there and will be greatly missed. Debbie enjoyed playing cards, watching the Twins in person and on TV, driving around and shopping. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Catholic United Financial. Survivors include her

lived. Whether it was city council, church trustee, lector, fire department, VFW, American Legion or even recess supervisor at Holy Family School, where he was affectionately known as “Mr. Larry,” he proudly served. He also was a popular referee for high school basketball for many years, and we can still see him taping up his ankles before each game.

Larry Hokanson dropped him in a rice paddy in Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam, where he and his platoon immediately received enemy fire. Larry recalled firing flares so they could see where their brothers-in-arms were at, and in order to prove his merit that he was a trustworthy American soldier, he was given a single password “Chipmunk.”

Larry was honorably discharged and returned home in September 1968. Not long after, he met and married a blue-eyed, blonde beauty named Kay in September 1972.

Larry was always active in whatever community he

In his life, he loved playing golf, softball, “old man basketball” and helping his friends at Getty Street. He played countless games of cribbage, successfully converted many of his grandkids into Packers fans and spent many hours playing Scrabble and Yahtzee with his wife, who sometimes let him win.

Larry is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kay of Sauk Centre; his daughter, Mary (Brian) Ruhland of Rockville and their children, Ellie and

brothers, Randy (Lynn) Gieske of Sauk Centre, Ron (Kristi) Gieske of Sauk Centre and Bob (Cheri) Gieske of Melrose; 11 nieces and nephews; and eight greatnieces and nephews.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Valentine and Louise Gieske; infant brother Billy Gieske; sister Judy Gieske; and brother Donnie Gieske.

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

P-12-1B

Nathan; his son, Kristian (Chrissy) and their children, Hailey, Mason, Isaac, Isaiah and Holly; and his daughter, Gretchen (Kent) Christen of Sauk Centre and their children, Josie and Piper. Larry loved being a grandpa and was proud of all of his grandkids. He knew family was important and always tried to be at every sporting event, play and anything where he could cheer them on. We will miss seeing him in the stands.

A special thank you to his wife, Kay, who was there for him and helped him maintain his health as long as possible. And a thank you to the EMTs, sheriff’s department and ER staff who offered him such wonderful support.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.

P-12-1B

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

Betty (Elizabeth) Asfeld

Betty was born to Michael and Loretta (McIntee) McCann in Manannah, Minnesota. On Feb. 16, 1957, she married the love of her life, Leo Asfeld, and togeth-

er they had seven children. Betty liked to dance, play cards, travel and go to the casino. She worked as a bank teller, at Jennie-O, at Walmart and on her family’s farm before retiring and moving with Leo to their home just north of Sauk Centre. Betty was a woman of faith and a member of Christian Mothers and St. Paul’s Catholic Church. She loved her family and friends. Survivors include her husband, Leo, of 66 years;

their children, Leon (Vicki) Asfeld of Texas, Linda Beilke of Washington, Bonnie Asfeld of St. Cloud, Joan (Chris) Markwardt of Kimball, Bruce (Rose) Asfeld of West Union and Joe (Linda) Asfeld of Sauk Centre; 29 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, brother and sisters, daughter Amy Harlow, and great-grandson Zander.

Mark W. Jennissen

Mark W. Jennissen, 63, of Miltona, died unexpectedly March 17, 2023.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 25, at Church of St. Mary in Alexandria with the Rev. Matthew Kuhn officiating.

Visitation will begin at 4 p.m. and conclude with a 7 p.m. prayer service and rosary Friday, March 24, at Lind Family Funeral Home in Alexandria. The visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Arrangements provided by Lind Family Funeral & Cremation services, lindfamilyfh.com.

H-12-1B

100 years ago • March 22, 1923

No alderman candidates running as filing deadline looms

The city’s annual election will be held April 3, but there is a definite lack of candidates for the alderman position. The terms of aldermen J.A. Brown, C.E. Bohall and H.G. Rydholm expire this year; all have given the city faithful service and are eager to retire, but although filing closes Saturday morning, no candidates have filed for any of these vacancies as of writing. The condition seems to indicate citizens, as a whole, are satisfied with present city administration, and through making an inquiry around town, the Herald believes there is a general desire that Brown, Bohall and Rydholm retain their positions if they can be prevailed upon to do so.

50 years ago • March 22, 1973

Horel places high in World Series Snowmobile Racing competition

Having won trophy after trophy during the 1972-73 racing season, Dr. Tom Horel – with the aid of Fred Ostendorf, the man behind his Ski-Doo machines – received an invitation from the American Snowmobile Association to enter the World Series Snowmobile Racing competition March 9-11 in Malone, New York. Sauk Centre Chamber of Commerce merchants sponsored about half of the cost of the trip. Horel took first place in the 400cc class, fifth place in the 340cc to 440cc classes and ninth place in the 400cc class with the United States Snowmobile Association. Horel and Ostendorf said the competition was among some of the toughest they have ever faced, and on Sunday in particular, the excellent track conditions ended up with areas with six inches of water and holes a foot and a half deep.

25 years ago • March 24, 1998

Episcopal Church of Sauk Centre invites alienated to new program

The Episcopal Church of the Good Samaritan in Sauk Centre, along with a handful of rural Minnesota churches, is opening its doors to people regardless of their religious background or sexual orientation. The Rev. Pat Gillespie is starting a ministry called The Living Waters, creating a safe space for people who have been hurt by the church, whether they have been abused, are divorced, single, alcoholic, gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. Gillespie says these people are among those who feel the most excluded from the church. She has informed members of her Sauk Centre congregation’s vestry about this new venture, and they approved The Living Waters’ services.

10 years ago • March 21, 2013

Baby born with heart defect returns home

After being born with a heart defect Dec. 31, 2012, Donovan Kirckof has finally returned home to his loving family. Jay and Mara Kirckof, married in 2008, had two healthy children before Donovan, but Mara began bleeding unexpectedly in her 36th week of pregnancy with Donovan. She was taken to the hospital and underwent induced labor and then a C-section on New Year’s Eve. When Donovan’s heart problem was discovered, Mara only got to hold him for 45 minutes before he was taken to St. Cloud Hospital. He had to be treated for pulmonary stenosis and partially collapsed lungs, followed by a stint with croup and bronchitis, but Donovan is now a healthy 3-month-old with an excellent prognosis, and he should be able to engage in normal childhood activities as he grows up.

Gopher Prairie 4-H’ers on dairy team that placed at regions

ST. CLOUD – 4-H Project Bowl challenges teams of three to six youth to test their knowledge on a variety of topics including dairy, dog, general livestock, horse, llama/ alpaca, poultry, and rabbit. Stearns County 4-H had seven teams that competed at the Regional Project Bowl contests in Sauk Rapids and Hastings in March.

Locally, the Dairy Senior team of April Klaphake and Haddie Walter, Gopher Prairie; and Isabella Schiffler, Albany Southsiders, received fourth place. They are coached by Sadie Frericks and Kevin Ratka

Sauk Centre women in MACT*Fest play May 25

ST. CLOUD – Two Sauk Centre women will be in “The Minnewaska Play” around 1:30 p.m., Saturday, March 25, at Central Square, 105 Second Ave. NE, in Glenwood, as part of the 26th biennial MACT*Fest. Lise Browne plays the Muse of Minnewaska, and Pamela Veeder is the Fish Finder.

The MACT*Fest, a statewide festival for community theatres, features shows by four theatres from around Minnesota, as well as adjudications of each play, workshops, a discussion about the state of theatre in Minnesota and an awards brunch. Saturday’s two performance sessions, at 1:30 and 7 p.m., present two plays each.

World Baseball Classic is important for baseball

A common topic of argument I have seen on Twitter is the importance of the World Baseball Classic, an international baseball tournament pitting some of the best players in the world from 20 teams.

Detractors argue the WBC, while a fun idea, puts the health of players at risk and questions whether the participating players actually care about representing their countries at the worldwide level like Olympic athletes do.

The problem with pushing this mindset is the fact that while notable names like Edwin Diaz and Jose Altuve have gotten injured during the WBC, the tournament has been nothing short of spectacular and provides a major boost to baseball

fans looking for different ways to support the sport.

So many of the matchups this WBC have been thrillers, most recently the semifinals battle between Japan and Mexico. The game contained a ninth-inning rally from Japan, Randy Arozarena taking a home run away in the outfield and clutch hits back-and-forth between the high-caliber teams.

Then there was the quarterfinals showdown between the United States and Venezuela, which featured two home runs from former Twin Luis Arraez and a game-winning grand slam from Trea Turner that sent the crowd and the USA dugout into a frenzy. Why would we complain about something that

WE’RE HIRING!

BY EVAN MICHEALSON Michealson’s Minutes

has been this exciting and more important, competitive?

While the USA certainly benefits from having Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, Paul Goldschmidt and many other unbelievable players lining their roster, there is parity. Japan is in the finals against the stars and stripes, looking for its leading third WBC title, while the Dominican Republic, Puerto

Community Ed corner

Student Activities/ Classes:

We have the following new class. Please view the website for more information or contact us.

– On Your Own: May 31, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. A staying home alone class will be conducted for boys and girls in third through sixth grade who are now or plan to stay home on their own. Topics to be discussed include emergency situations, first aid, a checklist before staying alone the first time, kitchen safety, fire safety,

Date: March 20, 2023

YOU ARE NOTIFIED THAT:

1. Default has occurred in the conditions of the Mortgage dated May 20, 2016, executed by Bradley J. Bierschbach and Katie A. Bierschbach, husband and wife, as Mortgagors, to Liberty Bank Minnesota, as Mortgagee, and filed for record May 26, 2016, as Document No. A1469296, in the Office of the County Recorder of Stearns County, Minnesota. The land described in the Mortgage is not registered land.

2. The Mortgage has not been assigned.

3. The original principal amount secured by the Mortgage was $80,807.00.

4. No action or proceeding at law is now pending to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage, or any part thereof.

5. The holder of the Mortgage has complied with all conditions precedent to acceleration of the debt

Everyone CAN RIDE

Rico and the aforementioned Mexico and Venezuela have also displayed strength.

Even more importantly, longtime St. Cloud Cardinals and USA pitcher Adam Wainwright had this to say about the tournament, “I’ve never had this much fun playing baseball in my entire life.” This comes from a man who has been a part of a World Series run and who has nearly two decades worth of MLB experience.

Sure, injuries to important players are a tough pill to swallow. But in my mind, losing your season in the World Baseball Classic fighting for first place in the entire world is far better than a meaningless Spring Training game.

Call for more information or to schedule a ride: (320) 251-1612 or (888) 765-5597 www.tricap.org

PH9-4B-WS

making a 911 call, internet safety and more. We will make a home fire escape plan, review questions to ask with parents before staying home alone and do many more activities.

Registration Information:

– Paper registration directions: Please include your name, address, phone number and the name of the class along with payment. Please contact us if you have questions.

– Online registration directions: Registration is accessed online at our

website by selecting the RevTrak Online Store; then, click on the Community Education tile to bring you to our Community Education listings.

Contact information:

Angie Christians, Activities/Community Education assistant, angie. christians@isd743.org or (320) 352-2258 Ext. 4006. Brent Lieser, Community Education director, brent.lieser@ isd743.org or (320) 352-

Public NOTICES

secured by the Mortgage and foreclosure of the Mortgage, and all notice and other requirements of applicable statutes.

6. At the date of this Notice the amount due on the Mortgage, and taxes, if any, paid by the holder of the Mortgage is $74,040.28.

7. Pursuant to the power of sale in the Mortgage, the Mortgage will be foreclosed, and the land located in Stearns County, Minnesota, described as follows: Lot 5, Block 1, Kloepper’s Addition to the City of St. Cloud, also Lot 30, Block 1, Barritt’s Addition to St. Cloud, Stearns County, Minnesota will be sold by the County Sheriff of Stearns County, Minnesota, at public auction on May 11, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., at the Stearns County Sheriff’s Department, located at 807 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, Minnesota.

8. To the best of Mortgagee’s information, the property being foreclosed has a property address of 134 18th Avenue North, St. Cloud,

Date: March 21, 2023

Minnesota 56303, and has tax parcel identification number 82.47723.0000.

9. The time allowed by law for redemption by Mortgagors or Mortgagors’ personal representatives or assigns is six (6) months after the date of sale.

10. The property must be vacated by 11:59 p.m. on November 12, 2023, provided the Mortgagors have not reinstated the Mortgage under Minnesota Statutes, Section 580.30 or redeemed the property under Minnesota Statutes, Section 580.23. If the foregoing date is a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, then the date to vacate is the next business day at 11:59 p.m.

11. THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGORS, THE MORTGAGORS’ PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032,

by Brent Lieser Sauk Centre Community Education Coordinator

2258 Ext. 4005. Follow us on Facebook @saukcentreschools or on Twitter @streetercommed.

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.

THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. LIBERTY BANK MINNESOTA

/s/ Benjamin B. Bohnsack (#0319399) Rinke Noonan Suite 300 US Bank Plaza 1015 W. St. Germain St. P.O. Box 1497 St. Cloud, MN 56302 (320) 251-6700 (320) 656-3500 fax Our File No. 22118-0213 Bbohnsack@RinkeNoonan. com Attorneys for Mortgagee H-12-6B

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

County, Minnesota, described as follows:

YOU ARE NOTIFIED THAT:

1. Default has occurred in the conditions of the Mortgage dated September 24, 2019, executed by Richard E. Holm and Suzanne M. Holm, husband and wife, as Mortgagors, to Liberty Bank Minnesota, as Mortgagee, and filed for record October 18, 2019, as Document No. A1555060, in the Office of the County Recorder of Stearns County, Minnesota. The land described in the Mortgage is not registered land.

2. The Mortgage has not been assigned.

3. The original principal amount secured by the Mortgage was $124,000.00.

4. No action or proceeding at law is now pending to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage, or any part thereof.

5. The holder of the Mortgage has complied with all conditions precedent to acceleration of the debt secured by the Mortgage and foreclosure of the Mortgage, and all notice and other requirements of applicable statutes.

6. At the date of this Notice the amount due on the Mortgage, and taxes, if any, paid by the holder of the Mortgage is $118,072.32.

7. Pursuant to the power of sale in the Mortgage, the Mortgage will be foreclosed, and the land located in Stearns

Lot 2, Block 3, Pond View Ridge Four, Stearns County, Minnesota will be sold by the County Sheriff of Stearns County, Minnesota, at public auction on May 11, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., at the Stearns County Sheriff’s Department, located at 807 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, Minnesota.

8. To the best of Mortgagee’s information, the property being foreclosed has a property address of 1511 Dale Street East, St. Joseph, Minnesota 56374, and has tax parcel identification number 84.53790.0114.

9. The time allowed by law for redemption by Mortgagors or Mortgagors’ personal representatives or assigns is six (6) months after the date of sale.

10. The property must be vacated by 11:59 p.m. on November 12, 2023, provided the Mortgagors have not reinstated the Mortgage under Minnesota Statutes, Section 580.30 or redeemed the property under Minnesota Statutes, Section 580.23. If the foregoing date is a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, then the date to vacate is the next business day at 11:59 p.m. 11. THE TIME

FOR

MORTGAGORS, THE MORTGAGORS’ 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. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

AAA and ExCEL winners recognized

Centre home basketball game Feb. 27 against Holdingford. Joining them on the court were their parents Steph and Brian Riley (back, from left), Sheyanne and Justin Sebek, Chrissy and Kris Hokanson and Hesston and Angie Christians. Hokanson and Christians were the AAA winners and Riley and Sebek earned ExCEL awards.

Streeter archers gain positive results at regions

Sauk Centre focuses ahead to state tournament

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

The Sauk Centre Streeters archery team understood that as its own dedicated group of archers vastly improved, so too was the competition.

This reality reared its ugly head at the 2023 Minnesota Region 3 Archery Tournament March 18 at Becker Public Schools in Becker, as a loaded 14-team field of high school archery competition took aim at placing first. Ultimately, Lakes International Language Academy’s score of 3,337 and 177 10s was enough to take the top spot, with an encouraging 3,244 mark giving the Streeters ninth place. “The archery program has gotten so popular, we might have to start qualifying for state,” said Nikki Duchene, assistant coach. “Overall, they did amazing.”

Twenty-one of Sauk Centre’s finest high school athletes represented the program at the gigantic event, which included not only 14 teams but archers from 24 schools for a grand total of 964 participants. With that incredible scale in mind, the Streeters maintained its trademark poise and mental fortitude, navigating the crowded environment behind a group-oriented mindset.

“Honestly, all tournaments are the same,” Duchene said. “You are going there as an

individual, working as a team. You want to do your best, trying to beat your previous score alongside your teammates. At the end of the day, everyone accomplished the same goal.”

Several standouts led to Sauk Centre’s positive day.

Senior Samantha Eekhoff continued her blistering final campaign with a solid score of 283, punctuated by 15 10s, including four in a row to start her appearance.

“She has always been one of our top shooters and she has found her groove again,” Duchene said. “She struggled at the beginning of the season, but has picked up her game. She has been one who practices at home during the season and offseason.”

Landing right behind Eekhoff as a top scorer for

the Streeters was junior Dylan Gruenes, who registered nines and 10s with all but three shots to finish at 279. This score placed Gruenes in the top 30 out of 545 boys archers.

“With both of these archers, it’s so important to practice without getting inside your head,” Duchene said. “You need to have a positive outlook on all 11 steps of archery in order to become a good shooter.”

Elizabeth Busch, 276; Bryce Parish, 275; and Alexandra Goerdt, 273, rounded out the top five in scoring for Sauk Centre, who also received boosts from its individual competitors. This included sixth-grade rising star Owen Volkman, who compiled a jaw-dropping 282, the second-highest total on the team, regardless of division.

“Owen has been coming to morning practices whenever they are available,” Duchene said. “He takes his time and really focuses on the task at hand, getting that arrow in the 10-spot.”

Also lending a hand in individuals was Aubree Randall, whose 273 ranked sixth out of 50 eighth grade girls at the tournament.

Sauk Centre will take part in the Minnesota National Archery in the Schools Program Bullseye State Tournament March 24-25 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.

“State is always a highlight for everyone,” Duchene said. “The team becomes a big family and get to know them, other than the archer.”

Neubert posts 2,000th point in playoff time

Sauk Centre’s leading scorer continues gigantic growth

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

SAUK CENTRE - As the Sauk Centre Streeters boys basketball team continues its ascent, so too does its leading scorer, junior Jay Neubert.

Neubert has received a ton of rightfully-deserved acclaim after breaking the Sauk Centre boys basketball program scoring record earlier in the season, and his collection of recognitions increased again during the Section 6AA Boys Basketball Tournament March 15, as the well-rounded Neubert earned his 2,000th point against the Albany Huskies during the semifinals round at St. John’s University in Collegeville.

“It’s been really cool and a lot of fun,” Neubert said. “It’s meant a lot to have such a memory-filled career, but that wouldn’t be possible without the teammates and coaches I have and have had.”

The dynamic, skilled guard did not make a gigantic leap in his junior year as far as scoring the basketball goes; he averaged 23.2 points per game this winter, certainly a staggering number but not much different from his 23.6 mark as a sophomore. However, what might get lost in the statistics is his on-man defense, which took a major step forward.

“I think what the impressive part about Jay’s year was scoring was about the same, but this year, he had to guard the other team’s best players,” Kuefler said. “That’s something he’s extremely improved on.”

And while Neubert did not pile on more points than previously, the way he has scored has also changed, switching from the centerpiece of a fairly one-dimensional offensive attack to a major weapon of a balanced shooting team in the 2022-23 Streeters. Additionally, another high school season of basketball, along with AAU experience, helped Neubert drive into lanes with more conviction and learn better body position when attacking the rim.

“He’s definitely getting

Jay Neubert’s improbable run of star-caliber scoring began in the seventh grade and has blossomed ever since. Here is the breakdown for all of the Sauk Centre High School junior’s scoring, by season.

2018-19, seventh-grade season:2 points 2019-20, eighth-grade season:372 points 2020-21, freshman season: 358 points 2021-22, sophomore season: 661 points 2022-23, junior season:624 points

better,” Kuefler said. “He was much more creative with his finishing by extending the ball and doing different finishes inside.”

While his vast array of moves to defeat defenders is one important tool in the kit, none are as important as his demeanor. With Sauk Centre battling to the Section 6AA Boys Basketball Tournament semifinals, the team understood that the opposition were keying in on Neubert, switching their primary defenders and playing physical with the young talent, hoping to rattle him. This tactic never seemed to work.

“You have to trust your hard work has prepared you for moments like these,” he said.

Even with this immense production, the Streeters and Neubert are not content with simply admiring what Neubert has done to this point, 2,000 points and all. Success as a team is what both parties plan to take away from this overall high school athletics experience as Sauk Centre continues to aim high and work hard when it comes to the expectations of the boys basketball program.

“I don’t think a lot of people know about how much time he actually puts in,” said Matthew Warring, senior. “He was coming in mornings and even some weekends to work on his game.”

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION

City of St. Cloud Project No. 4108-019

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TENDERED FOR FILING WITH THE COMMISSION AND ESTABLISHING PROCEDURAL SCHEDULE FOR LICENSING AND DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF FINAL AMENDMENTS (March 15, 2023)

Take notice that the following hydroelectric application has been filed with the Commission and is available for public inspection. a. Type of Application: New Major License

b. Project No.: 4108-019

c. Date Filed: December 15, 2022

d. Applicant: City of St. Cloud

e. Name of Project: St. Cloud Hydroelectric Project (St. Cloud Project or project)

f. Location: The project is located on the Mississippi River approximately 75 miles northwest of St. Paul, Minnesota in the City of St. Cloud, Stearns and Sherburne Counties, Minnesota. The project does not occupy any federal or Tribal lands.

g. Filed Pursuant to: Federal Power Act, 16 U.S.C. §§ 791(a) - 825(r).

h. Applicant Contact: Ms. Tracy Hodel, City of St. Cloud –Public Services Director, 1201 7th Street South, St. Cloud, MN 56301; Telephone: (320) 255-7226 or tracy.hodel@cistcloud. mn.us.

i. FERC Contact: Nicholas Ettema at (312) 596-4447, or nicholas.ettema@ferc.gov.

j. The application is not ready for environmental analysis at this time.

k. Project Description: The project consists of: (1) an approximately 3.5-mile-long, 294-surface-acre reservoir with a storage capacity of 2,254 acre-feet at a normal pool elevation of 981.0 feet National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929; (2) a 420-foot-long earthen embankment that abuts the east side of the dam; (3) a 550-foot-long, 19.5-foot-high concrete gravity dam and main spillway topped with inflatable crest gates; (4) a 50-foot-wide spillway containing two 20-foot-wide Tainter gates; (5) a 70-foot-wide, 122-foot-long reinforced concrete powerhouse containing two turbine-generator units with a total installed generating capacity of 8.64 megawatts and with an average annual generation of 51,500 megawatt-hours; (6) a 200-foot-long earthen embankment that abuts the west side of the dam; (7) an underground 180-foot-long, 5-kilovolt (kV) transmission line connecting the powerhouse to a step-up transformer; (8) a 5/34.5-kV step-up transformer; (9) an underground 900-foot-long, 34.5-kV transmission line connecting the step-up transformer to a non-project substation; and (10) appurtenant facilities. Average annual generation at the St. Cloud Project was 51,500 MW-hours from 2014 through 2021. City of St. Cloud is not proposing any new project facilities or changes to the operation of the project.

l. A copy of the application can be viewed on the Commission’s website at http://www.ferc.gov, using the “eLibrary” link. Enter the docket number, excluding the last three digits in the docket number field, to access the document (P-4108). For assistance, contact FERC at FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov, or call tollfree, (866) 208-3676 or (202) 502-8659 (TTY).

m. You may also register online at http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/esubscription.asp to be notified via email of new filings and issuances related to this or other pending projects. For assistance, contact FERC Online Support.

n. Procedural schedule: The application will be processed according to the following preliminary schedule. Revisions to the schedule will be made as appropriate.

MILESTONE TARGET DATE

Issue Deficiency Letter (if necessary) April 2023

Request Additional Information (if necessary) May 2023

Notice of Acceptance/Notice of Ready for Environmental Analysis October 2023

Filing of recommendations, preliminary terms and conditions, December 2023 and preliminary fishway prescriptions o. Final amendments to the application must be filed with the Commission no later than 30 days from the issuance date of the notice of ready for environmental analysis. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. H-12-1B

Important Information for Ashley Township Residents Regarding Property Assessments

This may affect your 2024 property taxes.

The Board of Appeal and Equalization for Ashley Township will meet on 4/10/2023, 10:30 am - 11:00 am, at Sauk Centre Senior Center, 321 4th Street North, Sauk Centre. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classified by the assessor.

If you believe the value or classification of your proper-

CITY OF WEST UNION ORDINANCE # 1-1-23

This ordinance grants Northern States Power Company, a Minnesota Corporation, its successors and assigns permission to construct, operate, repair and maintain in the city of West Union, Minnesota, an electric distribution system and transmission lines, including necessary poles, lines, fixtures and appurtenances, for the furnishing of electric energy to the city for such purposes.

Passed January 17, 2023.

Janet Macey, clerk City of West Union H-12-1B

ty is incorrect, please contact your assessor’s office to discuss your concerns. If you disagree with the valuation and classification after discussing it with your assessor, you may appear before the local board of appeal and equalization. The board will review your assessments and may make corrections as needed. Generally, you must appeal to the local board before appealing to the county board of appeal and equalization.

Jessica Minette Ashley Township Clerk H-12-2B OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Sauk Centre Civic Ice Arena April 1-2, 2023

Buy-Sell-Trade-Parts-Appraisals SCHP12-2B-MT

For more info contact James or Lori Neigel 218-736-2133

PHOTO BY MARK KLAPHAKE

Sauk Centre students Ethan Riley (front, from left), Raya Sebek, Hailey Hokanson and Owen Christians were recognized for being Sauk Centre’s AAA and ExCEL winners before the Sauk

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

The Sauk Centre Streeters archery team – Emily Schmiesing (front, from left), Owen Volkman, Carly Gruenes, Alexis Groetsch, Kyra Dickmann, Emilee Koelln and Elijah Groetsch; (back, from left) Elijah Duchene, Cassius Zirbes, Colton Volkman, Dylan Gruenes, Bryce Parish, Samantha Eekhoff, Zach Klimek, Claire Bushard, Michelle Straub, Jayden Randall, Aubree Randall, Parker Sorenson, Alex Goerdt, Elizabeth Busch, Reid Burkey and Caleb Primus – converge to participate in the Minnesota Region 3 Archery Tournament March 18 at Becker Public Schools in Becker. The Streeters high school team took ninth out of 14 teams, with individuals taking part in the tournament as well.

Adults:

t r e e t e r

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

All season long, the Sauk Centre Streeters boys basketball team proved they could muster everything they had against the top teams in the state.

An astounding 21 wins and a West Central Conference championship were not achieved without being able to handle what teams threw at them, and against the No. 1-seeded, top-10-ranked Albany Huskies, Sauk Centre provided a formidable challenge, jumping out to a six-point lead less than four minutes into the Section 6AA semifinals March 15.

However, the Huskies used a resilient defense and a 22-point, 12-rebound showing from senior center Ethan Borgerding to down the Streeters 63-49, ending a spectacular season in a sudden manner at St. John’s University in Collegeville.

The Sauk Centre Streeters girls basketball team’s impressive playoff run ended Wednesday night with a close 64-58 loss to the Minneapolis Washburn Millers in the Class AA quarterfinals. When the Streeters were down by two, a late and questionable foul call on a loose ball led to a four-point lead for the Millers, and when the Streeters were forced to foul after that, it never again became a one-possession game.

Quote of the week

Quote of the Week: Sauk Centre boys basketball head coach Kevin Kuefler on his team’s fight during the Section 6AA semifinals: “I think we were never out of a game, even in that one. As a coach, you want to win more, but you also have to reflect that your guys played hard.”

“That’s why they’re (Albany) 29-1,” said Kevin Kuefler, head coach. “We knew going into the game it was going to be a battle. We didn’t give up. They were just a better team than we were.”

Both teams presented excellent man-to-man defense, leading to top scorers Jay Neubert of Sauk Centre and Tysen Gerads of Albany struggling to assert their usual control over the game. Neubert managed 22 points, including the 2,000th of his high school career, but was held to 8 of 21 shooting and fouled out. Gerads, meanwhile, scored 15 points, 11 coming from the free-throw line on a 2-for-10 shooting day. Part of this success was Sauk Centre’s willingness to play aggressive and intense.

“We didn’t want to play scared,” Kuefler said. “We were going to try and play toeto-toe with them from the start. Early in the game, I was happy we went at them.”

Despite failing to establish momentum early, the dominant Huskies rounded back into form by relying on matchup advantages. Against Sauk Centre’s relatively-small lineup, Borgerding feasted, bullying

his way into strong positions in the paint to draw fouls and score at will.

“We were unwilling to double because they have plenty of shooters that would hurt us,” Kuefler said. “We had to live with the fact they had a size advantage. Ultimately, they

were extremely disciplined at going inside and playing through their advantage.”

A low-scoring, defensive-minded first half ended with Albany up 27-19. While it was far from the six-point advantage it once possessed, Kuefler and the Streeters still were satisfied with the team’s overall execution, particularly on defense.

“They’re scoring 76 points a game, so keeping them to the 50s would be dramatically less than what they usually do,” Kuefler said. “All in all, we played pretty well on defense.”

Unfortunately for Sauk Centre, their previous formula of transitioning clean defense into smooth offense did not transfer over to its final game of the season. The Streeters shot just 8-for-28 from beyond the arc and 18-for-53 from the

field while only attempting five free throws to Albany’s 27.

“We weren’t able to finish strong inside,” Kuefler said. “It was physical and tough for us to get baskets.”

The Huskies used their authority down low to grab a significant cushion, leading by as many as 18 points in the second half. But, like it has all season, the Streeters built a scary comeback effort, cutting the deficit back down to single digits in the final minutes.

Albany managed to stave off a hungry Sauk Centre team and advance to the Section 6AA finals for the second year in a row. The Streeters, meanwhile, end a momentous season chalk full of unbelievable twists and turns, ending the winter as one of the top four teams of a highly-competitive section.

“I’m happy with the year,” Kuefler said. “We’re always hungry for more, but we’re proud of our overall effort and the season we had.”

Seniors Matthew Warring, Corey McCoy, Carter Ziemer and Hunter Novak bid farewell to basketball after making individualistic, well-recognized contributions to Sauk Centre’s growth as a roster.

“It has meant a lot to me,” Warring said. “To see the progress we have made from the beginning of the summer to the end was really a cool thing.”

Without many wistful thoughts despite coming up short of state, Sauk Centre focuses on the future, as along with Neubert, key pieces Andrew Drevlow, Ethan Riley, Damian Ahrens and more have at least one year of high school basketball remaining. Like their stubbornness to slip further into deficits during the 2022-23 season, the Streeters are far from done.

“We’re right there, and we proved that,” Kuefler said.

PHOTO BY MARK KLAPHAKE

Junior Jay Neubert shoots over Albany’s Zeke Austin during their Section 6AA matchup March 15 at St. John’s University. Neubert led the Streeters with 22 points but Sauk Centre lost

PHOTOS BY MARK KLAPHAKE

Sauk Centre’s (from left) Ethan Riley and Andrew Drevlow battle Albany’s Tanner Reis, Tysen Gerads and Ethan Borgerding for a loose ball during their Section 6AA playoff game. The Huskies won the game 63-49.

Senior Matthew Warring soars in for a layup during their playoff game against Albany March 15 at St. John’s University. Sauk Centre lost the game 63-49 and finished their season with a 21-8 record.