The Star Post 07-12-2023

400 Block update

his first one as a seventh

Atheatre family

Rentschler, Schneider live for life on the stage

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

Luke Rentschler has found his niche – theatre.

This 2021 Albany High School graduate is preparing to hit the Melrose stage in his 25th production. He has also performed on stages in Albany, Cold Spring and St. Cloud, at the Long Prairie Drive-In with a Little Falls theatre group and while attending college

at the University of Northwestern in St. Paul, in productions like “Shrek,” “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Godspell.”

“I found a group of people I belonged with. I had tried other things, like baseball, but that was not my thing,” he said. “I knew I liked theatre. Then I started and never stopped.”

Rentschler is the beast in Melrose Stages, Inc., “Beauty and the Beast,” July 17, 18, 19, 21, 22 and 23 at the Marit Elliott Performing

Proud to be to an American an

at Holdingford Daze

Arts Center in Melrose.

The beast is a part Rentschler played in 2021 when he was a senior at Albany Area High School. Initially, he was cast for the 2020 production, but COVID-19 hit and the show was postponed.

“That was a dream part for me. I was over the moon,” Rentschler said.

Theatre page 3

A life laughing

Mayers honored as Freeport festival grand marshals

BY CAROL MOORMAN | STAFF WRITER

Flowers adorn the outside of Jerry and Mary Mayers’ Freeport home. Jerry takes care of the geraniums and Mary the rest. Some are gifted to them by their children.

“The geraniums are my favorite, and as you can see, they look pretty good,” Jerry said proudly. “I’m learning to like flowers.”

Jerry placed a moisture tester in the dirt of the planters and pots July 6 to determine if they need watering; some do and some do not. The gauge he received as a gift is one of the best tools in his gardening toolbox.

For close to 55 years the Mayers have been working – and laughing – together. That is evident as they talk about their life together, living in the same house in Freeport where Mary was raised. Among the topics are the volunteering both have done in the community. Mary said Jerry volunteers at Sacred Heart School and Sacred Heart Church.

“I helped put in new windows at the school and pour the ribbons in the cemetery, and when they built the gym, I helped with whatever they needed,” said Jerry, mentioning just a few of the projects he continues to help with.

Mary is Grandma Mary at Sacred Heart School, which she attended growing up in Freeport.

Mayers page 3

Heritage in in

hair care hair care

Utsch opens Modern Rose Salon in Melrose

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

When Liz Utsch first walked into the former Steam Brew building in Melrose, it felt familiar – even though she had never been there before.

“From the fixtures to everything, it was meant to be a salon,” she said June 27 in the Modern Rose Salon, her hair dressing establishment.

“The paint and everything. We didn’t have to really do anything.”

The familiar feeling was not entirely accidental. Utsch comes from a family of hair dressers.

“My grandfather, Mike

Opatz, started a barbershop/hairdressing business with his father in 1926 in Sauk Rapids. At one time they had businesses in Eden Valley and Sartell,” she said.

A framed copy of a 1985 Escape to the Minnesota Good Times article, says the Opatz Barber and Styling Shop was started in 1925, and includes photos of its interior.

Growing up, Utsch made more than one visit to the shop. She never worked there but has memories of seeing her grandfather, and other relatives, serving customers.

“His sister did all the girls’ hair, but he (her grandfather), his brother and his dad ran the barber shop,” she said.

“I just sat there and ate the suckers he offered us. My grandfather passed away 16 years ago. His brother, Bill, and his sister, Lisa, still run the shop in Sauk Rapids.”

Modern Rose Salon page 4

PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN

Mary and Jerry Mayers stand on the porch of their Freeport home July 6. The geraniums Jerry planted and cares for are flourishing, and Mary tends to the other flowers around their property.

PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN

The beast, played by Luke Rentschler, hands the beauty, played by Maria Warhol, a mirror so she can locate her father during the July 6 rehearsal for “Beauty and the Beast” at the Marit Elliott Performing Arts Center in Melrose. Rentschler, from Albany, has been in 25 productions since

grader.

PHOTO BY HERMAN LENSING

Colin Marstein rings a replica of the Liberty Bell, on the Holdingford Historical Society float, July 8 during the Holdingford Daze Parade in Holdingford. The theme was Proud to be An American.

PHOTO BY HERMAN LENSING Liz Utsch treats her sister Kylie’s hair June 27 at Modern Rose Salon in Melrose. Utsch’s grandfather, Mike Opatz, started a barbershop and hair dressing business with his father in 1926 in Sauk Rapids.

trust Mutual

Dobmeiers compete in ranch rodeos

BY JAN LEFEBVRE | STAFF WRITER

To do well in ranch rodeo competition, the horse and rider must work together as one.

“It’s definitely not something a person can just buy a horse and go do,” Gracie Dobmeier said. “As a rider, you have to build that trust with your horse and know that horse inside and out.”

Gracie, now 22, and just finishing her registered nursing degree, has been competing in ranch rodeos since she was about 12. She first competed alongside her older brother, Austin.

Now that Austin has a wife and child and has come home to dairy farm, he has not had time to compete the past few years.

However, there are still two Dobmeiers competing. Gracie and Austin’s mom, Anita, decided to give ranch rodeo a try two years ago and are still at it.

“I was the mom; I brought them and took pictures,” Anita said. “Then, I wanted to see what it was like, too.”

The Dobmeiers milk 70 cows and crop farm near Albany on their third-generation dairy. Most dairy farmers in the area are not keen on having horses because, unlike generations ago, horses no longer have jobs or help bring income to a dairy farm. However, Anita, who grew up in St. Cloud, always wanted one. She had ridden her aunt’s horse a handful of times and enjoyed it.

When she married Tom Dobmeier in 1996 and moved to the farm, she finally had space to have a horse and brought up the idea to him.

“He was supportive, but not sure,” Anita said.

In 1997, they purchased Maggie, an Appaloosa –but they did not stop there. As Austin and Gracie came along and grew, so did the herd, eventually numbering 13. Most of the horses were purchased, but four were born on the farm.

“Maggie had her baby, April, and she grew up with

Austin and me,” Gracie said. “That’s one of the first horses I remember, but the first horse that was considered mine was Ginger. She was a quarter horse.”

For a while, they also had a team of Fjords, a breed of workhorses.

“Gracie and I both drive horses, too,” Anita said. “We’ve done everything from drive wagon – they call it a people mover – to a fourcart, and we drive work equipment such as plows, cultivators and things like that.”

They mostly drove in demonstration events for friends who were in a draft horse club.

Gracie and Austin also showed horses in 4-H, and they competed in sorting competitions, which involves herding cattle. However, they had not heard of ranch rodeo until a friend told them about it and invited them to join a team and compete at one in Morton.

The Dobmeier siblings read about ranch rodeo rules, practiced a little on their own at home and headed to Morton.

“It definitely was a struggle the first day,” Gracie said. “I was learning how to go from a small pen to a really big pen because now you use the whole entire arena.”

Ranch rodeos are different from regular rodeos in that teams of four people with their horses compete against other teams in four different cow-event categories, all timed.

In the first category, sorting, a herd of around nine cows all have numbers on them. The announcer calls a number, and riders are timed

as they sort the cows in number order, beginning with the number called.

The announcer might start by calling out “five.” Then the cows must be sorted five through nine and then one through four. Since competitors have no idea which number will be called first, there can be no preplanning of strategy before the clock starts.

The second event is called doctoring, where a number is called out, and one team member has to rope that cow. Then a teammate on foot has to run to the roped cow, put shaving cream on it, and run back.

“The shaving cream represents the branding of a cow,” Gracie said.

The third event is trailer-loading. Two herds of cows with numbers are in the pen. When the announc-

er calls a number, the team needs to get both cows with that number into a trailer, close the middle gate in that trailer, load a horse and close the back gate of the trailer. The fourth and final event is penning, which also involves two herds of cattle. The announcer calls a series of numbers. The cows, in order of the numbers called, must be herded out from the rest and put in a pen.

During their first experience with ranch rodeo, the Dobmeiers became hooked.

“It was a good learning experience to see how people use certain tips and tricks and the best way to go about it,” Gracie said. Through the next 10 years, Gracie and Austin earned many awards in the sport, which in ranch rodeo come in the form of engraved buckles instead of trophies. There are also cash prizes of about $200 per team, per event. Gracie usually competes in close to 20

events a year, mostly taking place at county fairs. Anita now competes in several competitions each year. Both have also begun competing in Cowgirl Jackpot events in Wisconsin and Iowa, which involve teams of two competing in sorting and penning events. However, these competitions also include barrel racing and pole bending, which requires weaving between poles on horseback.

For the past year and a half, Gracie has ridden Rebel, a quarter horse, in competitions.

“I used to only ride geldings because mares always have an attitude, but there was something about Rebel when I bought her,” Gracie said. “She definitely keeps me on my toes. The adrenaline definitely pumps between the two of us.”

Rebel is 12 years old. The age of a horse though, Gracie said, isn’t a huge factor in choosing one for ranch rodeo.

“It just depends on how their bodies can hold up, just like with any athlete,” Gracie said.

Rebel, both daughter and mother said, has proven to hold up well.

“Rebel is a good athlete,” Anita said.

Anita competes on a quarter horse named May and has just started competing with Chick, a quarter horse she recently purchased. The horses are 19 and 20 years old, respectively.

Gracie and Anita have competed together, but they each compete with different goals in mind.

“Gracie competes to

This cool rate won’t last long!

win,” Anita said. “I compete to stay on my horse and to have fun and enjoy the memories I’m making with her, and I like to see what I can do and accomplish. Gracie teaches me a lot.”

Gracie agreed that she is more competitive than her mother.

“Growing up with a brother, I’ve always been super competitive,” Gracie said. “I love competition and being able to show what you’ve done with your horse to make it be able to compete. It’s an honor if you win because you’ve worked hard for it.”

Once they became involved in ranch rodeo, Anita, Gracie and Austin helped to promote the sport, even advocating to have it added to their county’s fair.

In 2015, they went to the Stearns County Fair Board and pitched the idea. When the event was added to the fair that year in Sauk Centre, Austin led the opening ceremony, carrying the American Flag. This summer will mark the eighth year of ranch rodeo competition there.

Mother and daughter plan to keep moving forward with the sport.

“As long as I can get on my horse, I’ll compete,” Anita said.

Austin and Tom come to watch when farming allows. The whole family has made many friends through the sport.

“My favorite thing is meeting up with people and being able to catch up,” Gracie said. “It’s a different kind of family that you don’t see that often, but when you do, it’s like you haven’t missed a beat.”

Above all, both Anita and Gracie said they like forming a connection with their horse.

“You have to trust your horse and work as a team,” Anita said. “I’m still learning how to do that.”

PHOTOS BY JAN LEFE B VRE

Anita Dobmeier and her horse, Chick, stand in the horse pen May 5 on their dairy farm near Albany. Dobmeier began competing in ranch rodeos after watching her children, Gracie and Austin, compete while they were growing up.

PHOTO SU B MITTED

Anita (left) and Gracie Dobmeier gather with their horses in April 2022 at a Cowgirl Jackpot competition in Decorah, Iowa. Both mother and daughter compete together at ranch rodeo events as well.

Horses gather in their pen May 5 at the Dobmeier dairy farm near Albany. Many of the horses have competed in ranch rodeos over the past 10 years with members of the Dobmeier family.

Theatre from front

While disappointed it was postponed, he was elated to bring the character to life during his senior year –and now again on the Melrose stage.

Fellow actor Kim Schneider, of Sauk Centre, also brings years of theatrical experience to the stage, this summer as a villager, or ensemble person, in the Disney musical. She has been involved in 38 productions; 34 on the stage and four behind the scenes. She was in plays at Dawson-Boyd High School and attended plays in Melrose when she moved here after marrying Tom Schneider.

“Tom looked at me one night and said, ‘You really want to be up there, don’t you?’ and I said, ‘Yes,’” Schneider said.

Her first show in Melrose was in 2002 when she played Jack’s mother in “Into the Woods.” She has been in a few shows with their children, Karla and Sean.

“It’s fun to be on the stage with your own kids. They have followed me in that because they love singing and theatre,” she said. “It’s something you can use the rest of your life. I can always be part of my theatre family.”

Rentschler and Schneider are among a cast of 47 adults and students from St. Cloud to Sauk Centre, that include Maria Warhol as Belle, Becky Kapsner as Mrs. Potts, Andrew Peterson as Gaston, Mia McCoy as Madame Bouche, Brandon Stalboerger as Lumiere, Shalon Wilber as Cogsworth and Sam Duff as Lefou.

For some, it is a literal family affair. Wilber, his wife, Kate, and their two children, Laney and Jay, of Sauk Centre, are in this production.

“Your theatre family is as supportive as your own,” Schneider said. That’s why I tell everyone ‘it’s my theatre family.’”

She has played a nun in five productions.

“I love being a nun. With “Sister Act,” I never had to change costume. Your habit was your habit,” she said. “But then again, last year we did ‘Grumpy Old Men,’ and I played Punky, and that was so much fun. And in ‘The Addams Family,’ I was Cousin Itt, and I never talked (just blubbered).”

Even when she’s not on stage acting, she is helping with set changes.

23.

“I come into this show with so many new life experiences. I think about the words I’m saying and the emotions that come with it.”

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“Besides learning your part, you learn when you have to move this piece or that piece,” she said. “It’s all about learning. Oh, my gosh, I’ve added more to my plate, but that’s OK.”

She finds the most challenging part is learning dance moves.

“I’ve got two left feet and the choreographer knows that,” she said, laughing.

Schneider said theatre is good for the community.

“It brings a lot of people together,” she said.

For Rentschler, the son of Rick and Deb (Soenneker) Rentschler of Avon, each production brings a new family-like feeling.

He was a seventh grader when he first stepped on the stage of the Albany Public Schools little theatre playing a sailor in “The Little Mermaid, Jr., a shortened version of the Disney show.

“The lights went down and the curtain went up, and I started to breath heavy and said, ‘Oh, God. Oh, God.’ They calmed me down, and I made it through,” he said.

That summer he joined the cast of “The Little Mermaid” in Melrose.

“I did six months straight of ‘Little Mermaid,’” he said.

Rentschler was hooked.

He talks about playing the lead Shrek, in the Albany

“It’s a shame it’s gone,” Mary said.

Rentschler

musical by the same name, and the emotional aspect.

“You feel the audience in the palm of your hands when you are in the scenes,” he said. “You became the character.”

It is with emotional expression and emotional freedom that he brings the beast to life.

“There is a lot to this character. A lot of people will dismiss this show, saying it’s Disney, happy and fun, but this is one of the most serious shows Disney has done,” Rentschler said.

He sees a lot of himself in this character.

“The beast has been struggling with so much because he made a bad decision, and it’s not only affecting him but those who care about him. For 10 years he has been dealing with the consequences of his actions,” Rentschler said. “We can all relate to that. We’ve all made bad decisions that weigh heavy on us.”

This time around, he is approaching the character differently.

“I come into this show with so many new life experiences,” he said. “I think about the words I’m saying and the emotions that come with it.”

Ironically, when he tried out for “Beauty and the

needs work.

Beast,” he hoped to get the part of Gaston, the villain.

“I had played the beast and, at the time, I didn’t think I had anything to add to the part. I had never played a villain before,” he said.

The Gaston part was given to Andrew Peterson, Albany Area Schools’ choir director.

“His voice is extraordinary,” Rentschler said. “He’s too nice to play a villain.”

Rentschler is living a dream as the beast, even if he is hiding behind a mask for much of the show.

“When you are playing that part you are in a shell of yourself; like you are trapped in this body,” he said.

Much of the costuming for the production is borrowed from Chanhassen Dinner Theatres.

Rentschler is enjoying the whole beast experience, especially singing his favorite song, “If I Can’t Love Her.”

He credits the success of Melrose community theatre to directors Marit Elliott and Andrew Engel, choreographer Calli Mayers and costumer Nancy Jeske.

“Marit lets us have creative freedom,” Rentschler said. “She genuinely believes in all of her actors.”

Schneider is excited to hit the stage as a villager.

“I do it for the joy of it,” she said. “Then the audience will enjoy it just as much as we do.”

Rentschler, a college history and theatre double major, is ready to become the beast, mask and all.

The theatrical stage is Rentschler’s world.

Tyler and Cortiney

Engelmeyer, of Melrose, are happy to announce the birth of their son, Tatum Joseph Engelmeyer, at 7:25 a.m., July 3, 2023, at CentraCare-Melrose Hospital in Melrose.

He weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces and measured 21 inches long.

Big sisters, Lexi, 4, and Gabi, 3, welcomed him home.

Grandparents are Kenny and Sandi Kerfeld and Joe and Kim Engelmeyer, all of St. Rosa. Great-grandparents are Ervin and the late Jeannette Kerfeld, Roger and Irene

Dacotah Wenninger and Cassidy Holmquist, of Sauk Centre, are happy to announce the birth of their son, Garrison James Wenninger, at 7:38 p.m., July 3, 2023, at CentraCareMelrose Hospital in Melrose.

He weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces and measured 21.5 inches long. Big sister Faith, 8, welcomed him home.

Grandparents are Dondi and Sue Wenninger, of Sauk

THANK YOU

Thank you

We would like to thank everyone who supported us with kindness and expressions of sympathy. We especially wish to thank CentraCare Hospital for the care they gave to Wayne. Thank you to the Rev. Arockiya Newton and LaVonne Beste for the beautiful Mass. Also, thanks to everyone who served lunch and neighbors and friends who brought bars, food and sent cards. Special thanks to the team at Patton-Schad Funeral Home.

The Wayne Zenzen family

Thank you

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Thank you to family and friends for all your support in prayers, food, cards and memorials for Tom. Thank you to the Steans County Pioneer Club, Avon Community Church who help served lunch, Pastor Alvin and dear friends for helping with the celebrations of life service.

The Family of Tom Eveslage

Thank you

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The family of Millie Mueller is so grateful to everyone who planned and participated in her celebration of life June 24.

Thank you to the honorary bearers of Park View Assisted Living and CentraCare Hospice for their compassionate care and friendship; to the priests, especially Father Arockiya Newton, Hospice chaplains and friends who ministered spiritual care with prayers and visits; to St. Mary‘s staff who assisted Millie’s grandkids to arrange and sing her favorite songs and the accompanists, Karen Heitzman, on piano, and Jonathan Meier, on guitar; to church volunteers for serving the lunch and to the custodial, sacristan and A/V staff at the church.

A special thank you to Mark Thompson and Patton-Schad Funeral Home staff for their assistance in a beautiful faith filled celebration for Millie, her family and friends. Thank you.

Millie Mueller’s Family

“I volunteer in the kindergarten classroom, and I haven’t graduated yet from kindergarten because I’m still there after 14 years,” she said laughing.

It’s the same parochial school their five children attended – Michael, of Albany; Amy Hoeschen and Heidi Hollenkamp, of Freeport; Rachel Von Wahlde, of Melrose, and Brian, of Chicago, Illinois. Some of their 10 grandchildren also are SHS alumni.

For their service to the Freeport community the Mayers have been named this year’s Sacred Heart Parish Festival grand marshals and will lead off the 10:30 a.m. parade, Sunday, July 16. Two of their grandchildren will carry the festival banner.

Little more than a month later they will celebrate their 55th wedding anniversary Aug. 31.

They first met at Charlie’s café, thanks to Mary’s friend, who spied Jerry, who was raised in New Munich, sitting at the counter.

“She hollered for him to come over, and that pretty much started it,” Mary said.

Like many people in those days they spent a fair share of their time together at the New Munich Ballroom.

Jerry talks about when he worked in the Twin Cities and if he told people he was from New Munich, they knew where that was because of the ballroom.

“Everybody went to either a wedding, shower dance or some type of entertainment at the New Munich Ballroom, and they brought in people like Lawrence Welk to perform,” Jerry said.

“Just think of how many hours of entertainment there was, and how many drops of sweat were dropped on that ballroom floor.”

Mary talks about being in awe when she met Johnny Holm, who was a regular performer at the ballroom, when she worked at Walmart.

Jerry thawed a frozen pipe for local entertainer Bobby Vee. He can fix everything and anything, Mary said. For more than 30 years he owned Mayers Repair in Farming, with his brother. They also welded some unique decor.

“We made trees and shipped them to Washington, D.C., I believe into a shopping mall. Some were 20 feet tall and 8 feet in diameter,” Jerry said.

Much of their repair work was on farm machinery. “Spring was busy but fall harvest time got busy too,” he said.

Jerry talks about an antique tractor he has that

“It needs to find a new home,” Mary said laughing, but Jerry begs to differ.

“I’ll get it running,” he said.

Mention the word retired, and Jerry, throwing his hands in the air, says, “It’s not important.”

“I’m retired but not retired,” he said.

“If somebody needs help, they call Jerry Mayers,” Mary said.

Turning 79 this year, he appreciates every day, and he smiles again when it is mentioned he robbed the cradle, marrying Mary who is 73.

Talk turns to his grave digging years from 1978 to 2021. Just don’t ask him how many he has dug.

“They needed a grave digger in New Munich until they found a new one, and they never found a new one,” Jerry said.

At first he dug graves by hand, until he converted an old combine into a grave digging machine that made the rounds at area cemeteries from Greenwald to Albany. He finagled a conveyor onto the combine which helped push the dirt from the ground into a truck, and after the burial, he placed the dirt back into the grave.

Grave digging, which he did all year around, started with a call from a funeral director.

“I dug many a grave when it was 20 below,” he said.

Going at a top speed of 15 mph, he drove the grave digging machine to a cemetery, and Mary followed in the car to drive him back home. If everything went right, it took close to 45 minutes to dig a grave, depending on the time of the year.

“Sometimes it took me longer to find the grave then to dig it,” he said. “I made many a call to Bernie Schad (funeral director) and the parish priest to find out where a tombstone was.”

He dug graves one “shovel handle” deep, so 4to 5-feet deep, he said.

“People would come to the cemetery just to watch me dig,” he said.

Chances are many people will flock to Freeport Sunday for the festival. The Mayers are looking forward to riding in the parade.

“We were totally surprised,” Mary said of their grand marshal honor.

Freeport is a town they are happy to call home – a home filled with flowers and laughter.

Albany Apartment FOR RENT

2 bedroom • 1 Bath $650/month, $100 deposit. No Dogs. Call for availability, Loreen 763-238-0616

What’s HAPPENING

Saturday, July 15, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. – Grey Eagle United Methodist Church Annual BBQ Luncheon and Bake Sale. Luncheon 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 30422 County Road 2, Grey Eagle.

Monday, July 17, 5:30-6:30 p.m. – Mental Health Support Group. CentraCare-Albany Clinic, 30 Railroad Ave., Albany. For information call the clinic at 320-845-2157.

Wednesday, July 19, 6 p.m. – Holdingford School Board Meeting. Holdingford Jr./Sr. High School library and media center, 900 Fifth St., Holdingford.

Wednesday, July 19, 6:30 p.m. – Albany City Council Meeting. Albany City Hall, 400 Railroad Ave., Albany.

Wednesday, July 19, 7 p.m. – AA Meetings. Back to Basic, at Tutti Frutti Marketplace, 38914 County Road 186, Sauk Centre. For more information, call 218-240- 1076. Big Book, Melrose City Center, 225 First St., NE, Melrose. For more information, call 320-241-3909.

Thursday, July 20, 6 p.m. – Melrose City Council Meeting. Melrose City Center, 225 First St., NE, Melrose.

Upcoming: Tuesday, Aug. 1, 7 p.m. – Schanhaar-Otte Post 7050 and Auxiliary meetings. Melrose American Legion clubroom, 265 County Road 173, Melrose.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 7 p.m. – Melrose American Legion Post 101 and Auxiliary meetings. Melrose American Legion clubroom, 265 County Road 173, Melrose.

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Tatum Joseph Engelmeyer

Tatum Joseph Engelmeyer

Garrison James Wenninger

Garrison James Wenninger

Boeckermann and Marge and the late Art Engelmeyer, all of St. Rosa; and Ron and Pat Toenies, of St. Anthony.

Centre; and Jamisty and Dion Claseman, of Long Prairie.

PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN

Gaston (front), played by Andrew Peterson, riles up villagers (middle, from left) Levi Scherping, Pam Rue, Kim Schneider, Nelia Peterson and Kate Wilber; and (back, from left) Oliver Mosman, Noah Schroeder, Amy Wilwerding, Carson Tschida, Sydney Zink and Amber Roerick during the mob scene as they begin their search for the beast during the July 6 “Beauty and the Beast” rehearsal at the Marit Elliott Performing Arts Center in Melrose. The musical opens July 17 and runs through July

Mayers from front

Luke

Thomas E. Kostreba

Thomas Eugene Kostreba, also known as “Tommer,” 63, of Gillette, Wyoming, crossed the finish line of life June 29, 2023, at Campbell County Health.

Tom was born in St. Cloud, Nov. 21, 1959, to Henry and Darlene (Lange) Kostreba. Tom grew up in the small town of Opole and attended and graduated from Holdingford High School in 1977. After he graduated from high school, he pursued his big move out west, which would lead him to many great adventures in life. He resided in Colorado and Utah for a few years, working oil field and construction jobs. He settled down in Gillette, Wyoming, and made it home in the early 80s. He started working for Black Thunder Coal Mine Jan. 26, 1989, where he worked for 33 years until his death as a plant operator. He also sold Amsoil products in his spare time and serviced customers’ vehicles and made many great friends by this business. On Jan. 10,1995, he welcomed his only daughter, Kaylee Snow Kostreba, into the world.

At a young age, Tom discovered a lifelong passion for snowmobiling and made the Big Horn Mountains his second home. When he wasn’t working that’s where he could be found living his life to the fullest and fulfilling his adrenaline needs and spending time at Bear Lodge Resort where he would meet many people that became his family over the course of his life.

He and his mountain buddies started a group called “Bear Lodge Bad Boys Club,” a rider’s club where many years of money would be raised for local search and rescue and riding events on the mountain.

When the snow melted away for summer, he enjoyed riding four wheelers and his Indian motorcycle. He was always proud of the miles he was putting on them. He liked to live his life with the throttle wide open.

Through his passions, he developed many friendships and made an impression on anyone he met. His friends described him as loyal, full of life, loving, helpful, determined, ambitious and driven. Most people would say he had the most contagious laugh. You could hear it from a distance, and it would fill a room.

Tom was persistent in sharing his passions with others and was a part of snowmobile clubs from a young age until his passing. He was always volunteering and dedicating his time to his club. One of his biggest goals in life was to spread the knowledge and sport of snowmobiling. As he aged, he started fulfilling lifelong dreams of ice oval snowmobile racing, collecting, riding and showing vintage snowmobiles. He was easily noticeable from other riders because of his bright orange and black race gear along with

Roger Van Dorn Phillips

The Rev. Roger Van Dorn Phillips, 85, passed away peacefully, with his family at his side, May 22, 2023, following a brief illness from an aggressive lymphoma.

Thomas E. Kostreba

his customized snowmobiles with his race number 007x, which was iconic in his identity. His biggest dream was to race at the World Championship Derby Complex in Eagle River, Wisconsin, which he did attend and compete in time trials. He was thrilled.

Besides his passions for motorsports, he had a giant soft spot for his daughter and son-in-law and two granddaughters, Maizee and Emerie. He had a third grandbaby on the way. They were his world. He enjoyed spending time with them. They were the light of his life he would say. He couldn’t wait to get them on their first snowmobiles, dirt bikes and side-by-sides. He started collecting them before they were even born.

Tom was a great philosopher and was known for many quotes, the most famous being “It is what it is” and “Each day you live, but you only die once. Live each day like it’s the last lap of the race.” He loved spreading awareness about life and encouraging others to live life to the fullest, which he did and passed away feeling his life was lived that way.

Tom was survived by his mother, Darlene Kostreba; his brother, William (Brenda) Kostreba; his sisters, Lori Ann (Jeff) Jarnot and Kristi Kostreba (Shawn Shumacher); his daughter, Kaylee (Zane) Humphries and granddaughters Maizee and Emerie Humphries. He also was survived by many nieces and nephews he cared deeply for.

Tom was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents and his father, Henry Kostreba.

Per request by him, a celebration of life will be held at a later date in the Big Horn Mountains with his loved ones and friends. There will also be future arrangements in Minnesota for a celebration of life for his friends and family that can’t attend his celebration on the mountain.

If any donations wish to be made in his memory, please send them to 307 Riders Snowmobile Club at 307rsc@gmail.com or explore the idea of checking out and joining your local snowmobile or riding club in honor of his memory. Memorials and condolences may be sent to Gillette Memorial Chapel 210 West Fifth Street, Gillette, WY 82716 or via the web at www. gillettememorialchapel.com.

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320-253-7030

Crossroads Center St. Cloud, MN 56301

ALBANY

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

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AVON COMMUNITY CHURCH 204 Avon Ave. N 320-356-9001 avoncommunitychurch.org

HOLDINGFORD

COMMUNITY COUNTRY CHURCH

Across from school 320-746-0005 communitycountrychurch.org

Roger was born to Dr. Roger E. Phillips and Maud “Larrie” Larkin Phillips Oct. 8, 1937, in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania. After graduating from Edgewater High School in 1955 and the University of Florida in 1959, he taught social studies at Colonial High School. Roger was commissioned a Naval officer in 1962, was captain of two LSTs in Vietnam, and left the Navy in 1971. He met his wife, Rosemary, singing in the Virginia Beach Civic Chorus in 1970, a hobby they both enjoyed up until October 2022. After returning to Orlando,

David L. Kleve

David L. Kleve, 74, of Freeport, passed away June 29, 2023, at the CentraCare Care Center in Melrose.

A Mass of Christian Burial was July 3 at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany with the Rev. Greg Miller, O.S.B. officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery with military honors by the Albany American Legion. David Leo Kleve was born April 13, 1949, in Melrose, to Arnold and Marie (Van Heel) Kleve. He was united in marriage to Dianne Gerads Oct. 3, 1970, at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany. David farmed north of Freeport until Oct. 1, 2007, when David had a stroke.

Frederick B. Schlangen

A Mass of Christian Burial was July 8 at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany for Fred Schlangen, 64, who died July 3, 2023, at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud. Burial was in the Seven Dolors Parish Cemetery.

Frederick “Fred” Benedict Schlangen was born June 26, 1959, in Richmond, to Ben and Amanda (Stang) Schlangen. He married the love of his life, Phyllis Stangler, June 19, 1982, at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany. Together they dairy farmed near Albany until 2018, then enjoyed their semi-retirement continuing to work their chicken barn and spend extra time with their

Modern Rose Salon

from front

Utsch, the daughter of Chad and Desiree (Opatz) Utsch grew up in Paynesville. A 2021 graduate of Paynesville High School, she initially went into nursing – sort of following a family career.

“My dad is in construction, and my mom is a surgical tech,” she said.

The Rev. Roger Van Dorn Phillips

Roger became a certified property manager, and in 1984 he and Rosemary formed Attwood-Phillips, Inc., which they owned until retirement in 2007. They bought a lake home on Big Birch Lake in Minnesota in 1989 where they would eventually spend six months of the year. Roger was ordained a priest in the Episcopal Church in

Minnesota in 2004 and served at The Episcopal Church of the Good Samaritan while at the lake and supplied at various parishes in the Diocese of Central Florida during the winter months.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Rosemary Burger Phillips; his sister, Amy Phillips Grant; son Michael Ford (Melissa); daughters Kelly Best (Joe) and Lisa Eberlein; grandchildren Kinsley, Carson and Brynna Ford; Sean (Victoria) and Kevin (Jessica) Best; Ford (Abby) and Stella Eberlein; Will (Carissa) Simmons; William Simmons; and Seth (Rachel) Simmons; greatgrandchildren Ash and Ian Best, as well as many nieces

and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Marian Phillips Simmons, son-in-law Martin Bradford Cox, grandson Nolan Patrick Best, granddaughter Brielle Caroline Ford, sister-in-law Sandra Burger, brother-in-law Richard Grant, brother-in-law John Burger and nephew-inlaw Daniel Burger. A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 29, at The Episcopal Church of the Good Samaritan, 529 Main Street South, Sauk Centre. Memorial contributions may be made to The Episcopal Church of the Good Samaritan or to the Big Birch Lake Association.

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

David L. Kleve

He was a member of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany, Krain Township Board member and the Albany American Legion. David enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and farming.

Survivors include his wife

of 52 years, Dianne Kleve of Freeport; children Gwen Kleve of Paynesville, Jason (Denise) Kleve of Osakis, Jeramie Kleve of Holdingford, Josh (Robin) Kleve of Freeport, and Gretchen (Eric) Muellner of Sauk Centre; father Arnold Kleve; grandchildren Ashley and Zach Clark, Courtney and Brandin Mackedanz, Zachary Hanson (Evelin Mackedanz), Samantha and Brendon Scott, Emily and Mason Douvier, Damon Kleve, Jackie Kleve, Lisa Kleve, Olivia Kleve, Avery Kleve, Danny Muellner and Jake Muellner; seven

great-grandchildren with twins on the way; brother Robert (Nancy) Kleve of St. Anna; sisters Alice Eggert of Waite Park, Marilyn (Roger) Zimmermann of Albany, and Carol Kleve of Albany; and special nephew Neil Nathe. David was preceded in death by his mother, Marie Kleve; brother-in-law Ray Eggert; and goddaughter Jody Kleve.

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

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

Frederick B. Schlangen children, grandchildren and friends. Fred also worked with Scepaniak Land & Grain of Holdingford and Austin, Inc., of Albany. Fred loved driving his John Deere tractors with his grandchildren, sight-seeing and crop checking, watching western shows, playing cards,

drinking beer with family and friends, and eating ice cream. He was the proudest father and grandfather, who just beamed with joy when telling stories about his children and grandchildren. He was the most loyal, hardworking man and was first on the scene whenever someone was in need. He was a true role model and will be missed beyond measure by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him.

Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Phyllis of Albany; daughter Jenelle (Tony) Scepaniak of Albany; sons Scott (Janelle) of Albany, Kurt (Megan) of Sartell, and Bryan (Emily) of Avon; grandchildren Brooke, Carson, Lauren, Jaeden, Cameron, Skyler, Croix, Cali, Westin and

Hank; siblings Joey (Barney) Kiffmeyer, Ron Schlangen, Rich (Dorothy), Roger (Nancy), Mary (Ron) Gillitzer, Chickie (Maynard) Meyer, Mel (Doris), Alvin (Alice), Steve (Cheryl), Ruth (Carl) Lieser and Ralph (Missy); and sistersin-law Cindy (Doug) Schmitz, Nancy (Roger) Schlangen, Mary (Glen) Moscho, Sheila (Roy) Torborg and Lisa (Jeff) Schwinghammer. Fred was preceded in death by his parents Ben and Amanda, father- and motherin-law John and Marcie Stangler and infant brother Ben, Jr. Services are with the Wenner Funeral Home of Richmond.

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me,” Utsch said. “She has her own business but works here.”

Utsch is at the site Monday through Friday for appointments and walk-ins. The latter is a service she is glad to offer. Herzog works Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and some Saturdays.

“We do get three or four walk-ins a day,” she said. “There are not that many offering walk-in service after COVID.”

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

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BIRCH HILLS COMMUNITY CHURCH

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If you would like parishioners to see your church here, please contact Robin at 320-351-7837 or robin.b@star-pubs.com

While she had an interest in hair dressing, she did not think about being a hairdresser when she graduated. Then came the coronavirus pandemic shutdowns.

“At the time I was studying to be a nurse,” she said. “Nobody had a place to cut hair, so I started cutting hair for my dad and my siblings.”

She found she was interested in all elements of business. When pandemic restrictions eased, she attended Ridgewater College in Willmar for cosmetology, earning her degree in December.

“Right after I took my state boards, I went to visit Bill and Lisa,” she said. “I wish grandpa was there. He would have been so proud.”

In her visits to the shop, she observed something that helps her business – how to treat her clients. They must

appreciate her work, technique and style, since they keep coming back.

“We have about five to 12 every day, depending on what services they are getting done,” she said. “I love my clients. They are so awesome.”

She wanted to locate in Melrose, and did so shortly after she passed her state boards.

“I kind of hung out with Melrose kids when I was in high school,” she said. “My boyfriend (Peyton Linn) is

part owner of Melrose Feed Mill. His grandfather (Pete Rothfork) owns this building and asked if I wanted to fill it. I came and looked it over. Now I rent the building, until I hopefully buy the building one day.”

When she walked in, she knew she had found the place for her business. Since opening May 15, her clientele have increased.

The building is also home to Anna Jane Herzog’s Hair by Anna business. “She is renting from

Most clients know what they want in hairstyle and cuts, but Utsch is aware of hair dressing trends.

“You have to keep up on the education,” Utsch said. “Right now, it is summer and blonde is popular. Balayage (lighting the end but not the roots) of hair is a new thing now.”

Besides hair care, she had a coffee bar installed and offers refreshment to customers.

“I get to chit-chat all day long,” she said. And she offers suckers to children.

“That comes from grandpa’s shop,” she said. “I had them when I was there, when I was little, so I’ve got them here.”

It is another way Utsch is carrying on a four-generation family business tradition.

PHOTO BY HERMAN LENSING

(Left) Anna Jane Herzog (left) and Liz Utsch stand outside their businesses June 27 in Melrose. Utsch has a family tradition in hair dressing going back to the 1920s.

the children

When my daughter was around 10 years old, she told my wife and me she was going for a bike ride – by herself.

As she was getting older, she was enjoying more and more freedoms, but a bike ride to places where I cannot see her? This hadn’t been requested before, and it made me worry.

Celebrate angels of delight

“Everybody needs a Nita” read a headline in an addendum in Laurel (Schneider) Enneking’s book “Anita: Our Angel of Delight,” submitted, along with a few paragraphs, by her sister, Julie, about their sister, Anita Schneider.

“Our family was blessed by a wonderfully unique individual who taught us all how to love better, to be accepting of limitations, to be open to differences. As one of my brothers, (Bob) so beautifully expressed, ‘In a widely divergent family, Nita was common ground,” Julie’s comments read. I met Anita when I interviewed Laurel and husband Tom earlier this year. Anita gave me a piece of candy from her bag attached to her walker, just like it was described in the book about how she gifts people with candy, whether they are familiar faces or someone she met for the first time.

But what Nita really gifts people with is her life; a life in which she continues to overcome challenges.

We all know people like Anita who are day brighteners, who very seldom complain about anything. While we complain about little things in life, they celebrate life by the things they do or don’t do.

I am reminded of this when invited to cover the Sauk Centre/Melrose Golden Eagles Special Olympics Halloween bowling tournament at Melrose Bowl. I know I will receive plenty of hugs, from people I only see once a year. Mike will come up to me, usually wearing his Minnesota Vikings apparel, because the tournament is usually on a Sunday with the Vikings playing on the TVs, and we will visit; I will tease him about his favorite sport’s team. Pam will smile at me as she gets ready to bowl, and I will ask her where her costume is. Amanda is always eager for me to take her photo. And then there are Kevin and Jimmy, who are always a hoot, one more vocal than the other, and usually two words out of one of their mouths is “Got money?’

This same group of people, plus more, can teach us lessons in dancing when they have one of their annual dances.

During a St. Patrick’s Day dance at the Melrose American Legion, the dance floor was packed from the minute DJ Pete started spinning tunes, often venturing out into the crowd with his plastic guitar or other props. The dancers didn’t scatter; they circled around him, egging him on, and he egged them on right back.

There is no judgment. Everyone is equal, even though some are better dancers – and bowlers – than others.

Some have caregivers who drove them to the dance, since they are not able to drive themselves. I remember the smiles of some caregivers because they were enjoying the dance just as much as the participants.

The same can be said about the Golden Eagle bowlers. Their coaches and unified partners were there to support them, although they usually don’t need much help. Although it is a tournament, the losers are just as happy as the winners.

That’s because they are all winners.

In life, we can learn lessons from people facing challenges – like Anita.

Thank you, Laurel, for sharing Anita’s story and your book with me. Anita’s life is an inspiration to all of us, as is your life and Tom’s life as you lived it making Anita an integral part for close to 44 years.

Julie’s January 2023 comments ended with, “It is so wonderful that she (Nita) was in such a loving family whose members … were attentive to her needs. I wish every family could experience the love of a person like Nita. … She taught us all how to live and love a little better.”

Laurel wrote they are grateful God made things work out so that Anita became a big part of their lives.

“People say Anita is lucky to have us, but I’m the lucky one to have her in my family,” Laurel said Friday during a phone conversation I had with her. “She has been our angel of delight.”

Let’s celebrate all the angels of delight in our lives.

Holdingford's summer-long promotion

There have been promotions and efforts by various groups and firms to increase business.

A century ago, Holdingford residents found themselves in the midst of a campaign as one business engaged in a summer-long promotion. The business was serious about selling its product. It offered substantial prizes – and a guaranteed reward to any participant – and made a contest of selling its product.

“It is not a game of chance, but a liberal business proposition in which every participant is paid,” the business declared in its two-page center-spread ad in the June 21, 1923, Holdingford Advertiser.

The same ad announced the first place prize was a new 1923 Chevrolet Sedanette car valued at $975 (one estimate puts that at over $10,000 today.) The second prize was a summer vacation to Yellowstone, third place would receive a Victrola record player, fourth a gold watch and fifth $35 in gold coins. In addition, every contestant would receive some financial reward.

The way the business promoted its campaign, it was a win-win for everyone. Any participant would receive some remuneration, the top prizes were clearly attractive, and the business would see its product in the community. What was being asked of participants was the selling of the company’s product. Scores were kept with points, or votes, earned by the number of items sold. As the deadline for sales drew near, the value of the points for a sales increased.

All summer long the Advertiser carried updates, sometimes ads, sometimes news stories, of the competition. By mid-July six people had emerged as the leaders having

earned between 191,100 and 1,163,610 points.

The Advertiser stated, “Any one of the candidates is in a position at this time to ride away in the prize car.” In the final week, sales were kept in a sealed box until they were counted, just to keep up the suspense.

The paper followed the contest to the closing days. The Thursday, Aug. 9, 1923, issue carried the announcement that the contest would end at 4 p.m., Saturday. Competition going into the final days was tight with 775,110 points separating first from third. With 1,500 to 15,000 points offered for each sale in the final week, points could potentially be made up in a hurry.

The Aug. 16 issue announced when the box was opened and a final count made, Miss Helen Soyka had earned 6,487,500 points and was declared the winner of the car. Mrs. Chas Brenny scored 3,861,610 points, winning the Yellowstone trip. Other awards were third place, Walter Botz; fourth, Barthol Muyres and fifth, Sara Powlzor.

The story closed the contest and campaign. That the paper devoted the amount of time and space that it did to the contest was understood by most of its readers. The contest winners got the prizes, but the Advertiser pulled in a number of additional subscriptions since that’s what the contestants were selling, meaning the Advertiser accomplished its goal.

“The Advertiser offered good prizes, as we were willing to pay for good work and we got it. The aggregate vote totals reached enormous figures, representing hundreds of new and renewal subscriptions,” the article stated.

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In

Other Words by Bryan Zollman

When I and most of you reading this grew up, we got on our bikes after breakfast and often only came home when we were hungry or when it got dark out. It wasn’t because our parents didn’t care or weren’t worried about our safety, it was because they trusted the neighborhood was safe and other parents and neighbors were to be trusted.

Then, in the little town of St. Joseph, a young boy was riding his bike with two friends to rent a movie at a local Tom Thumb store. They were stopped on a dirt road by a sketchy looking man with a gun. One of the boys was taken, sexually assaulted and then killed. We all know who this boy is, not just because it happened so close to home, but because it made national news. Jacob Wetterling’s name and innocent 12-year-old face was plastered all over cable news channels, and parents realized that could be their child’s face on a billboard or telephone pole.

Growing up, the only missing children we heard about were the ones we saw on the back of a milk carton. But this only happened in faraway places. Jacob Wetterling brought it home for everyone, and parenting changed.

Most parents no longer dropped their kids off at the local park or let them ride their bikes down desolate roads to a friend’s house. Those neighbors that used to be trusted were now held with suspicion. Who knows what goes on behind closed doors. We didn’t just worry about skinned up knees or speeding cars when our kids went on bike rides. Now, we worried they could be snatched away from us, never to be seen again, the last remnant a spinning wheel of a left-behind bicycle in the ditch.

Nancy Grace made a fortune on cable news highlighting missing children daily, interviewing desperate parents and eager law enforcement, shining a light on the devastating heartbreak a missing child causes. Again, we watched and felt it could happen to our child. Before, we only heard about such things if they happened locally, but Nancy Grace brought the issue to the national stage and we all felt it. It was real, and it almost felt like an epidemic. Where were these creeps coming from?

This past weekend my wife and I went to see the movie “Sound of Freedom.” The film shines a light on the dark underbelly of child trafficking. The movie contends human trafficking is a $150 billion industry and children as young as five are being kidnapped and trafficked for sex. Please, go see the movie and then watch interviews with star Jim Caviezel who helps bring awareness to this atrocity.

It is hard to imagine there are people out there who would do something so intentionally disgusting and abhorrent. Yet, it exists, partly because we let it.

The hope is this movie opens the eyes of everyone and demands a collective response from leaders around the world to put a stop to it. If we invested a quarter of money into fighting human trafficking as we do climate change or fighting wars, we could put a lot of sick people behind bars forever and could save a lot of children.

But we won’t. Which begs the question “why not?”

As for that first bike ride my daughter requested, we let her go. But I suddenly had to run to the store. It didn’t take long for my daughter to notice I had followed her so I could keep an eye on her. She wasn’t too happy with her dad that day. But I didn’t care. Some day she will be a parent, and she will understand.

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From

Not alone

Alternative Senior Care, D-CAN to hold dementia support group

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

Assisting a loved one who has dementia can be a rewarding yet taxing undertaking for any friend or family member, and without the right support, it can lead to fatigue. That is why the Dementia Community Action Network of St. Cloud, along with Alternative Senior Care in Sauk Centre, are proud to announce a monthly support group for anyone caring for a loved one with any form of dementia.

The meetings will be at 10 a.m., the first Tuesday of every month, beginning Aug. 1, at Alternative Senior Care at 418 10th Street South in Sauk Centre, and they will also be hosting caregiver coaching and workshops for anyone in the community.

“There are a lot of people who are home with their loved ones who are trying to take care of their loved one,” said Lainie Berg, co-owner of Alternative Senior Care. “They don’t always have the outlet, or they’re in rural areas where they’re on their home farm. … It’s a big struggle to get help.”

Alternative Senior Care used to have an Alzheimer’s support group that was facilitated by the previous owner, Cindy Karasch, and when she retired, the new owners – Berg and Paula Bromenshenkel – wanted to bring it back in a meaningful way. They heard about Cristina Rodriguez, a certified dementia practitioner with D-CAN, who ran support groups and caregiver training in Long Prairie and other areas. There was another similar group in Alexandria, but Sauk Centre did not have anything.

“Sauk Centre was its own hole,” Berg said.

“(D-CAN) had a grant for Stearns County, but a lot of the efforts were pushed toward the cities and the St. Cloud area.”

Berg and Bromenshenkel asked Rodriguez to let them know if D-CAN could

Cristina Rod

acquire a grant to come into the Sauk Centre area, as it gets expensive for families to do caregiving coaching. When D-CAN received the grant, Alternative Senior Care got a call from First Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre; some of their parishioners are athome caregivers for loved ones, and they can struggle with burnout.

“Last week, we met with Cristina and Janell (Hoffman) from First Lutheran and then a couple of our staff to try to brainstorm what we could do to bring these services to the area,” Berg said.

Berg’s grandmother, Sue Black, and Bromenshenkel’s grandmother, Betty Schneider, both had dementia, so they both know what it is to take care of someone in that condition.

“It’s like you’re grieving every day the loss of your loved one when you

live with someone with dementia,” Berg said. “With my grandma, she didn’t have the role she took in everyone’s life; she needed help in areas she would never have asked for before in her life.”

Consequently, caregiving can be very mentally taxing for anyone who undertakes it.

“They can do the daily tasks – the showering, the meals or the cleaning sometimes – but they need that mental break,” Bromenshenkel said. “This (group) is a nice outlet for them to be able to talk with other people who are going through the same thing, to be able

Stearns Bank donates $275,000 to Mother of Mercy Senior Living

ST. CLOUD – Stearns Bank N.A. has committed $275,000 to support renovations at the Mother Of Mercy Senior Living in Albany. The donation will be used to help fund ongoing updates to the assisted living apartments and main campus.

Mother of Mercy is in the process of renovating and updating the facility. The changes include a completely updated lobby with new handicapped bathrooms.

“This generous gift from Stearns Bank will make a tremendous impact on the lives of the residents and tenants who live on our campus,” said Renee Anderson, Mother of Mercy Foundation executive director. “We are honored to receive this donation and are grateful for the support from Stearns Bank to carry on our mission of providing the best quality of life possible to those entrusted to our care.”

The renovation also includes updates to common areas, including a completely renovated Fireside Lounge family gathering area, a new deck and expanded public bathrooms. Added features will

Heather

of Mercy Senior Living;

Rory

June 14 at Mother of Mercy in Albany for

to help fund ongoing updates to the assisted living apartments and main campus.  provide greater access to the facility, such as a new entry for the assisted living area, new office space, and updates to brighten the hallways. Along with these improvements, many areas are getting new furniture and individual apartments will receive updates.

“This is our hometown and Mother of Mercy has been a bedrock in our com-

munity for decades. We are extraordinarily grateful for Mother of Mercy’s services and the care and comfort they provide families in our communities, and we are honored to be able to support their mission,” said Kelly Skalicky, Stearns Bank president and chief executive officer. “My family has supported Mother of Mercy since we moved to Al-

bany in the early 1960s, and Stearns Bank will continue to support Mother of Mercy and its vital mission.”

Skalicky added, “This is about our roots and our families, friends and neighbors. We encourage our fellow community members to continue to support Mother of Mercy with gifts of time, financial contributions or otherwise.”

to bounce ideas off or not feel like it’s just them when they’re frustrated with their loved one, because they can get frustrated.”

The service is on a donation-only basis and funded by the Central Minnesota Council on Aging as part of the Older Americans Act Program. The sessions will be informal, with some questions and some time for group sharing, and Rodriguez will be the group facilitator; she also specializes in one-to-one coaching to ensure caregivers are also taking care of themselves, but those sessions are to be scheduled separately. People who come to the support group can bring their loved one if they wish.

“What I say to a lot of couples is, when you were a parent, when you had your little kids, you still took nights or weekends away because you needed those mental health days,” Bromenshenkel said. “You had someone come and babysit your kid for a little bit so you could come away and have some adult time. It’s really no different; you still need your adult time to get away mentally and refresh.”

Anyone interested in attending the support group does not necessarily have to

be utilizing Alternative Senior Care’s other services. In fact, people who have taken care of people with dementia in the past are welcome to attend, give their support and share their knowledge and tips for those who are currently caregivers.

Additionally, starting Nov. 7, Alternative Senior Care will be partnering with First Lutheran Church to bring dementia training to the area. The plan is to hold it in two rooms in First Lutheran Church; one room will be an activity room for those who have memory loss, and in the church’s sanctuary area, there will be guest speakers who will cover dementia-related topics for the families.

“We’re trying to work on doing more workshops for the community on different subjects, and that’s one of the ones coming up,” Berg said.

Bromenshenkel and Berg encourage anyone who has cared for or is caring for someone with dementia to come give the group a try, to know that they are not alone in their efforts and struggles to help their loved one.

“You can do a lot more when you’re helping yourself,” Berg said. “Like on an airplane, put your air on first and then help.”

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PHOTO BY BEN SONNE K

Paula Bromenshenkel (left) and Lainie Berg, co-owners of Alternative Senior Care, hold pictures of their grandmothers who had dementia – Betty Schneider for Bromenshenkel and Sue Black for Berg – June 30 at Alternative Senior Care in Sauk Centre. A dementia support group from the Dementia Community Action Network of St. Cloud will be held at Alternative Senior Care at 10 a.m. the first Tuesday of every month, starting Aug. 1.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Plumski (from left) and

Bidinger, from Stearns Bank; Renee Anderson, from Mother

and Shelby Bowland and Kristy Peternell, from Stearns Bank, gather

the check presentation. The donation will be used

NOTICE OF FILING DATES FOR ELECTION TO THE SCHOOL BOARD INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 740 (MELROSE AREA PUBLIC SCHOOL) STATE OF MINNESOTA

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the period for filing Affidavits of Candidacy for the office of School Board member of Independent School District No.740 shall begin on August 1, 2023, and shall close at 5:00 o’clock p.m. on August 15th, 2023.

The special election shall be held on Tuesday, November 7th, 2023. At that special election, one individual will be elected to fill the vacancy in term expiring January 6, 2025.

Affidavits of Candidacy are available from the School District Clerk, Independent School District No. 740, 546 5th Avenue NE, Melrose, MN 56352. The filing fee for this office is $2. A candidate for this office must be an eligible voter, must be 21 years of age or more on assuming office, must have been a resident of the School District from which the candidate seeks election for thirty (30) days before the general and special election, and must have no other affidavit on file for any other office at the same primary or general election.

The affidavits of candidacy must be filed in the office of the School District Clerk and the filing fee paid prior to 5:00 o’clock p.m. on August 15th, 2023.

Dated: June 26, 2023

BY ORDER OF THE SCHOOL BOARD /s/ Becky Feldewerd School District Clerk Independent School District No. 740 (Melrose Area Public Schools) State of Minnesota

P-28-2B

Unadopted Minutes

SCHOOL BOARD WORK SESSION Albany Area Schools – ISD #745 District Office Board Room June 28, 2023

1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order by Member Carbajal at 6:00 p.m.

2. Roll Call Present: Sands, Rueter, Dirkes, Carbajal

CITY OF ALBANY

AMENDMENT

Late: None

TO ORDINANCE NO. 60 LIQUOR

The City Council for the City of Albany, HEREBY ORDAINS that Ordinance 60 Liquor shall be amended as follows:

1. That Section 60.04 shall be amended to read as follows:

“Subd. 5: Sunday Sales. The City may authorize a restaurant, club, bowling center, or hotel with a seating capacity for at least 30 persons, which holds an On-Sale license under this section to sell intoxicating liquor on Sundays in conjunction with the sale of food during the hours set forth in Minn. Stat. 340A.504, Subd. 3, as may be amended from time to time, provided that each individual establishment obtains a Sunday license from the City, has obtained a 2:00 a.m. license from the State and is in conformance with the Minnesota Clean Air Act.”

This Ordinance Amendment shall be effective upon publication.

This Ordinance was approved by the majority of the City Council of Albany on the 5th day of July, 2023. /s/ Tom Kasner, Mayor /s/ Heather Cruz, Deputy City Clerk ( S E A L )

This amendment was published in the Star Post July 12, 2023 P-28-1B

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333

ASSUMED NAME: Kwik Trip #1215.

PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS IS: 220 Kraft Dr. SE, Melrose, MN 56352.

NAMEHOLDER(S): Kwik Trip, Inc., 1626 Oak St., PO Box 2107, La Crosse, WI 54602.

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/ Scott P. Zietlow, President 06/28/2023

P-28-2P

Absent: Kreuzer, Hansen, Sand

3. 2023 - 2024 Handbook Updates

Superintendent Okerlund updated the Board on various topics such as cell phone policies, snack procedures, procedures at Avon Elementary School and some dress code updates that give more general guidelines that meet community standards. The District will be seeking approval from the Board at the next July 12th meeting.

Grading standards have been updated for teachers to have grades for online assignments completed within five days. Crisis Go is being addressed for staff to be logged into the alert system while at the school. Criminal Background Checks is a mandatory

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PRELIMINARY & FINAL PLAT, RE-ZONING, AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, The Melrose Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, July 24, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. at the Melrose City Center for the purpose of giving consideration to approval of the Preliminary and Final Plat of the Melrose Area Development Authority to re-plat Melrose Meadow View to Railroad West. It will also consider the request of Melrose Area Development Authority for an amendment to City Code Chapter 153 Zoning Regulations to rezone the property from R-2 to R-1 and a Conditional Use Permit for the General Development Plan for a Planned Unit Development overlay for the area. The PIDs# of the parcel area are: 66.37010.0382, 66.37010.0383, 66.37010.0384, 66.37010.0385, 66.37010.0360, 66.37010.0361, 66.37010.0362, 66.37010.0363, 66.37010.0364, 66.37010.0365, 66.37010.0366, 66.37010.0367, 66.37010.0368, 66.37010.0369, 66.37010.0370, 66.37010.0371, 66.37010.0372, 66.37010.0373, 66.37010.0374, 66.37010.0375, 66.37010.0376, 66.37010.0377, 66.37010.0378, 66.37010.0379, 66.37010.0380, 66.37010.0381.

The Property is legally described as follows: Outlot A, Outlot B, Outlot C, Outlot D, Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11,

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

requirement for teachers and coaches. Technology and maintenance support is setting up a process (ticket system) to create efficiencies in the process of completing tasks. These are prioritized by levels of urgency. Expenditure deadlines are being addressed and completion universal deadline is set for March 15th of each year.

Inclement weather: public announcements from media. A revision of the list is being completed to funnel communication to a smaller group to minimize confusion. “Handle with Care” language is being implemented into the handbook offering training and confirmation of completion of training by employees.

4. School Board Policy - Second Read

4.1 707 Transportation of Public School Students

Superintendent Okerlund discussed the boundaries concerning transportation of students on bus routes. The exclusion zone of one mile is remaining the same and will be enforced at this time. The District will consider one and one half miles because of the severe shortage of bus drivers the district is experiencing. More communication will be provided if changes are to be made.

5. Adjournment Agenda completed at 6:38 p.m. Dean Dirkes, Acting Clerk P-28-1B

Block 1, Lots 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, Block 2, and Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, Block 3 of Melrose Meadow View, according to the recorded plat thereof, Stearns County, Minnesota.

A copy of the proposed request is on file with the Planning and Zoning Department, Melrose City Center, 225 1st St NE, Melrose MN 56352 and is available for review during normal business hours.

The development plan for the area includes a 73-unit multi-family housing complex, two (2) cul-de-sacs containing 25 single family residential lots, and a lot designated as a future municipal park.

All interested persons are invited to attend this hearing or submit written testimony prior to the hearing date, either in support of or in opposition to the Preliminary & Final Plat, Re-Zoning, and Conditional Use Permit of the Melrose Area Development Authority. Written testimony should be sent to the Planning and Zoning Department, Melrose City Center, 225 1st St NE, Melrose MN 56352.

Dated this 5th day of July 2023. SHEILA

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

notice, the sum of $88,875.15 in principal and interest.

ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333

ASSUMED NAME: Enchanted Treehouse.

PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS IS: 36107 County Road 2, Saint Joseph, MN 56374 USA.

NAMEHOLDER(S): Enchanted Pines, LLC, 36107 County Road 2, Saint Joseph, MN 56374 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/ Claudia M. Revermann 07/06/2023 P-28-2B

TOWNSHIP OF AVON

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Avon Township Planning Commission, County of Stearns, Minnesota, will conduct a public hearing on July 26, 2023 beginning at 7:15 PM in the Avon Township Hall (16881 Queens Road, Avon, MN) to consider an application submitted by Rich & Brenda Sanoski (34171 Smiley Drive, Albany, MN, 56307) for a Conditional Use Permit for a Conventional Subdivision in the Stearns County Conservation Design Overlay District pursuant to sec. 7.6.5 of Stearns County Zoning Ordinance number 439. If approved, this application would permit combining three parcels (03.01475.0300; 03.01475.0310; 03.00927.0050) and then subdividing them into two parcels (Shady Acres First Addition).

All interested persons are invited to this hearing, at which time you may appear if you so desire, either in person or by agent, in opposition to, or in support of, the proposed changes. The hearing of this request is not limited to those receiving copies of this notice, and if you know of any neighbor or affected property owner, who for any reason has not received a copy, it would be appreciated if you would inform him/her of this public hearing. If you cannot attend this meeting, you may direct comments to the Avon Township Clerk.

The public is invited to attend. Avon Township meetings are handicap-accessible and available via Zoom (see avontownship. org for login info).

Stephen Saupe, Clerk 16881 Queens Road, Avon MN 56310 clerk@avontownship.org

Published in the Star-Post Wednesday July 12, 2023 P-28-1B

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

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, 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

DEBT BY A DEBT COLLECTOR.

DATED: March 1, 2023 Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc., FOLEY & MANSFIELD, P.L.L.P. assignee of Mortgagee

By: Sean C. Mansfield Atty. No. 0400374 Attorneys for Mortgagee 250 Marquette Avenue, Suite 1200 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401

NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT OF MORTGAGE

FORECLOSURE SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN, that the mortgage foreclosure sale referred to in the foregoing Notice of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale has been postponed from : April 19, 2023 at 10:00 o’clock a.m. to June 8, 2023 at 10:00 o’clock a.m.

Said sale will be held by the Sheriff of Stearns County at the Law Enforcement Center, 807 Courthouse Square, in the City of St. Cloud, in said County and State.

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 December 8, 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: April 19, 2023. NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT OF MORTGAGE

FORECLOSURE SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the mortgage foreclosure sale referred to in the foregoing Notice of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale has been postponed from : June 8, 2023 at 10:00 o’clock a.m. to July 20, 2023 at 10:00 o’clock a.m. Said sale will be held by the

Sheriff of Stearns County at the Law Enforcement Center, 807 Courthouse Square, in the City of St. Cloud, in said County and State.

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 December 8, 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: June 14, 2023. NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the mortgage foreclosure sale referred to in the foregoing Notice of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale has been postponed from : July 20, 2023 at 10:00 o’clock a.m. to August 24, 2023 at 10:00 o’clock a.m.

Said sale will be held by the Sheriff of Stearns County at the Law Enforcement Center, 807 Courthouse Square, in the City of St. Cloud, in said County and State.

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 December 8, 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:. July 12, 2023

P-28-1B

NAME

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED

Minnesota Statutes

Chapter 333

ASSUMED NAME: Enchanted Cottage.

PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS IS: 36107 County Road 2, Saint Joseph, MN 56374 USA.

NAMEHOLDER(S): Enchanted Pines, LLC, 36107 County Road 2, Saint Joseph, MN 56374 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/ Claudia M. Revermann 07/06/2023 P-28-2B

00 11 13

DOCUMENT

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

2023 Railroad Avenue NW Street & Utility Improvements Melrose, Minnesota SEH No. MELRO 172746

Notice is hereby given that Online Bids will be received by the Administrator until 11:00 a.m., Thursday, August 3, 2023, via QuestCDN for the furnishing of all labor and material for the construction of 2023 Railroad Avenue NW Street & Utility Improvements.

The bid opening will be held at City Hall, located at 225 1st Street NE, Melrose, MN 56352 and conducted via Microsoft Teams, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud:

2023 Railroad Avenue NW Street & Utility Improvements

Bid Opening Thursday, August 3, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. (CDT)

Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_OTM5MDRkZDQtN2MxMS00MTQwLWI0MTEtM2FiMGQwZjhkYWRl%40thread. v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22642f4553-88f1-43dc9a29-90842cd19d4c%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2248472820a408-4d5c-b262-d033b1c6fa20%22%7d

Meeting ID: 280 379 338 389

Passcode: bdsJQd

Or call in (audio only)

+1 872-242-7640,,733644363# United States, Chicago

Phone Conference ID: 733 644 363#

Any person monitoring the meeting remotely may be responsible for any documented costs. Message and data rates may apply.

Major quantities for the Work include: 6,556 SQ YD SALVAGE AND STOCKPILE 9-INCH AGGGREGATE

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333

ASSUMED NAME: Enchanted Lodge.

PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS IS: 36107 County Road 2, Saint Joseph, MN 56374 USA.

NAMEHOLDER(S): Enchanted Pines, LLC, 36107 County Road 2, Saint Joseph, MN 56374 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/ Claudia M. Revermann 07/06/2023 P-28-2B

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333

ASSUMED NAME: Enchanted Pines Weddings | Events.

PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS IS: 36107 County Road 2, Saint Joseph, MN 56374 USA.

NAMEHOLDER(S): Enchanted Pines, LLC, 36107 County Road 2, Saint Joseph, MN 56374 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/ Claudia M. Revermann 07/06/2023 P-28-2B

ments may be downloaded by selecting this project from the “Project Bid Information” link and by entering eBidDocTM Number 8587844 on the SEARCH PROJECTS page. For assistance and free membership registration, contact QuestCDN at 952.233.1632 or info@questcdn.com.

For this project, bids will ONLY be received electronically. Contractors submitting an electronic bid will be charged an additional $42 at the time of bid submission via the online electronic bid service QuestCDN.com. To access the electronic Bid Worksheet, download the project document and click the online bidding button at the top of the advertisement. Prospective bidders must be on the plan holders list through QuestCDN for bids to be accepted. Bids shall be completed according to the Bidding Requirements prepared by SEH dated June 15, 2023.

In addition to digital plans, paper copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from Docunet Corp. located at 2435 Xenium Lane North, Plymouth, MN 55441 (763.475.9600) for a fee of $100.

Bid security in the amount of 5 percent of the Bid must accompany each Bid in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders.

A Contractor responding to these Bidding Documents must submit to the City/Owner a signed statement under oath by an owner or officer verifying compliance with each of the minimum criteria in Minnesota Statutes, section 16C.285, subdivision 3.

1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Hansen at 6 p.m.

2. Roll Call

Present: Hansen, Carbajal, Sand, Dirkes, Rueter Late: None Absent: Sands, Kreuzer

3. Public Forum

4. Agenda – Additions and Deletions

5. Approvals

5.1 Previous Meeting Minutes

The Bidding Documents may be seen at the Issuing Office of SEH located at 2351 Connecticut Avenue, Suite 300, Sartell, MN 56377-2485, 320.229.4300, Kari Franklin, 320.229.4342, kfranklin@sehinc.com.

The Bidding Documents may be viewed for no cost at http:// www.sehinc.com by selecting the Project Bid Information link at the bottom of the page and the View Plans option from the menu at the top of the selected project page. Digital image copies of the Bidding Documents are available at http://www.sehinc.com for a fee of $30. These docu-

Motion by Carbajal, seconded by Dirkes, to approve the May 10, 2023, Regular Meeting minutes, the May 24, 2023, Work Session minutes and the May 24, 2023, Special Meeting minutes as presented. Supported by all present.

5.2 Cash Flow Reports – April 2023

Motion by Carbajal, seconded by Sand, to approve the April 2023 Cash Flow Reports as presented. Supported by all present.

5.3 Acceptance of Gifts and Donations

Member Carbajal introduced the Resolution Accepting Donations and moved for its adoption. The School Board of Albany Area Schools, ISD 745, as identified below: gratefully accepts the following donations

The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all Bids, to waive irregularities and informalities therein and to award the Contract in the best interests of the Owner.

Colleen Winter Administrator Melrose, MN

Member Rueter seconded the resolution and upon vote being taken thereon, The following voted in favor of: All present

And the following voted against: None

Absent: Sands, Kreuzer

Whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.

6. Consent Agenda

AFT:

Isaiah Folsom - ALE Physical Education Teacher

AFT Summer School:

AVE Summer CREW Teacher - Alyssa Fleischhacker, Leslie Thesing, Mindy Strom, Nancy

Swarthout

AVE ECSE ESY Teacher - Sue Noska, Bayley Pooler Engler

AVE K - 5 ESY Teacher - Bayley Engler Pooler

AMS Summer School Coordinator - Jake Gagne

AMS Summer School Teacher - Kelly Klasen, Aaron Boyum, Patty Peschel, Hallie Dufner, Mad-

ison Worms

ALE Summer CREW Coordinator - Sharon Navratil

ALE Summer CREW Teacher - Melissa Johnson, Laurie Hommerding, Angela Haynes, Jody

Abraham

AFT Lane Change:

Tracy Rademacher - BA/BS Step 6 to MA Step 7

Leanne Stephens - BA/BS+45 Step 10 to MA Step 10

Emily Nienaber - BA/BS Step 4 to BA/BS+45 Step 5

Isaac Skalsky - BA/BS+30 Step 5 to MA St

AFT Transfer:

Jody Knopp - AVE SpEd Teacher to ALE SpEd Teacher

Sharon Navratil - ALE Second Grade Teacher to ALE First Grade

Teacher Genius Hour: Maria Winkels

Staff Development Coordinator:

Renee Nelson

AESP Summer School:

Publish:

QuestCDN: July 12, 2023

City of Melrose website: July 12, 2023

The Star Post: July 12 and 19, 2023

P-28-2B

ECSE ESY Paraprofessional - Heidi Eiynck, Gina Becker, Brittany Polipnick, Alyssa Fleischhacker AESP Payroll Change Request: Matthew Wielenberg - Custodian, Student Wage to Lane III Step 1

AESP SpEd Differential: Stephanie Strusz

AESP Request for Severance: Cynthia Ryan

Extended LOA Request: One LOA: Two

Coaching/Advisors: Erin Harren - Assistant Swim Coach

Kids Company: Ashlee Brang, Anna Buttweiler, Kennedy Vogel

Community Education: Course Instructors - Renae Illies, Kelly Neu, Adam Patterson, David Torbert

BECC Supervisor - Makaela Zierden

BEAT Tech Assistant - Mya Justin

HSP/Fundamentals: Makaela Zierden, Nolan Anderson, Aaron Schwenzfeier, Ben Eli Lifeguard/Swim Instructor: Taylor Moritz, Carleigh Corte, Teagan Crumley, Allie Hoffmann, Claire Lecy, Mckenzie Eiynck, Anna Scherping, Abigail Barrow

Non-Renewal: Director of Food Services

Resignations: Makayla Brenner - ALE Paraprofessional, effective May 26, 2023

Nicole Schneider - Media Center Admin Assistant, effective June 2, 2023

Karissa Muehring - AVE Full-time Substitute Teacher, effective May 30, 2023

Paula van der Hagen - Musical Director, effective May 30, 2023

Kayla Furnstahl - ALE Paraprofessional and Kids Company Assistant, effective June 30, 2023

George Hadrich - Bus Driver, effective May 19, 2023

Don Neu - Technology Assistant, effective June 23, 2023

The following checks were issued in paying claims: Wire transfers and checks 105032 –105291.

01 General Fund $1,111,351.46

02 Food Services $89,823.22

04 Community Services $49,798.05

06 Building Construction $199,347.72

Motion by Carbajal, seconded by Reuter to approve the June 2023 Consent Agenda. Supported by all present.

7. Reports

7.1 Purple Pride

7.2 Q-Comp Annual Report Motion by Carbajal, seconded by Rueter, to approve the 2022-2023 Q-Comp Annual Report as presented. Supported by all present.

8. Business

8.1 Enrollment Report Enrollment remained steady throughout the 2022-2023 school year.

8.2 Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Approval Motion by Carbajal, seconded by Dirkes, to approve the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget as presented. Supported by all present.

8.3 2022-2024 Albany Educational Support Professionals Master Agreement Approval Motion by Carbajal, seconded by Dirkes, to approve the 2022-2024 AESP Master Agreement as presented. Supported by all present.

8.4 Resolution Relating to Community Education Census

Member Carbajal introduced the resolution and moved its adoption. The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by Member Sand upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: All present and the following voted against the same: None whereupon said resolution was declared passed and adopted.

8.5 Resolution for Membership in the Minnesota State High School League Motion by Carbajal, seconded by Rueter, to approve the continued membership in the MSHSL. Supported by all present.

8.6 Teacher Development & Evaluation Plan Approval Motion by Carbajal, seconded by Sand, to approve the TD&E Plan as presented. Supported by all present.

8.7 Juneteenth Childcare Necessity Designation

Due to the short notice from legislation and lack of alternative childcare options in the area, Kids Company will provide childcare on June 19, 2023, during regular scheduled hours. Member Dirkes introduced the resolution and moved its adoption. The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by Member Carbajal and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: All present and the following voted against the same: None whereupon said resolution was declared passed and adopted.

9. Committee Reports

9.1 Staff Development Committee Meeting

The Staff Development Committee elected Renee Nelson as the new Coordinator.

10. Superintendent Report Avon Elementary is coming along well after the flood earlier this year. The media center will be available for use starting next week.

The Early Learning Center design phase has wrapped up. Demolition precast and total construction bids were published this week. The bid opening will be June 29. The Board will award contracts in July for all construction scopes and work will begin in August.

11. Adjournment Agenda completed at 7:01 pm, a motion to adjourn was made by Member Carbajal, seconded by Sand. Supported by all present.

AVON TOWNSHIP

Notice of Rescheduled Meeting

Notice is hereby given that the meeting of the Avon Township Board of Supervisors scheduled for August 2, 2023 has been cancelled and rescheduled to August 9, 2023. This meeting will occur in the Avon Township Hall, 16881 Queens Road, Avon (MN). Avon Township meetings are handicap-accessible and available via Zoom (see avontownship.org for login info).

Stephen Saupe, Clerk

Email: clerk@avontownship.org

Website: www://avontownship.org

Published in the Star-Post July 12 & July 19, 2023

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333

ASSUMED NAME: Enchanted Bungalows.

Anderson’s

attention to details

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PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS IS: 36107 County Road 2, Saint Joseph, MN 56374 USA.

NAMEHOLDER(S): Enchanted Pines, LLC, 36107 County Road 2, Saint Joseph, MN 56374 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/ Claudia M. Revermann 07/06/2023 P-28-2B

NOTICE OF FILING DATES FOR ELECTION TO THE SCHOOL BOARD INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 738 HOLDINGFORD PUBLIC SCHOOL STATE OF MINNESOTA

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the period for filing affidavits of candidacy for the office of school board member of Independent School District No.738 shall begin on August 1, 2023, and shall close at 5:00 o’clock p.m. on August 15th, 2023.

The general election shall be held on Tuesday, November 7th, 2023. At that election, four members will be elected to the School Board for terms of four (4) years each.

Affidavits of Candidacy are available from the school district clerk, 900 5th Street Holdingford, MN 56340. The filing fee for this office is $2. A candidate for this office must be an eligible voter, must be 21 years of age or more on assuming office, must have been a resident of the school district from which the candidate seeks election for thirty (30) days before the general election, and must have no other affidavit on file for any other office at the same primary or next ensuing general election.

The affidavits of candidacy must be filed in the office of the school district clerk and the filing fee paid prior to 5:00 o’clock p.m. on August 15th, 2023.

PROBATE NOTICE

STATE OF MINNESOTA

COUNTY OF STEARNS SEVENTH JUDICIAL

DISTRICT DISTRICT COURT

PROBATE DIVISION

Court File No: 73-PR-23-4821

NOTICE AND ORDER OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Patrick C. Casey, Decedent.

It is Ordered and Notice is given that on July 28, 2023, at 8:45 a.m., a hearing will be held in this Court at 815 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, Minnesota 56303, or via electronic means via Zoom platform, for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Will of the Decedent, dated July 17, 2002 (“Will”), and for the appointment of Danforth H. Leach, Jr., whose address is 6705 Samuel Road, Edina, MN 55439, as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an UNSUPERVISED administration.

This is an administrative hearing and your appearance is not required

Any objections to the petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the

PROBATE NOTICE

STATE OF MINNESOTA

COUNTY OF STEARNS

DISTRICT COURT SEVENTH JUDICIAL

DISTRICT

Court File No: 73-PR-23-5075

NOTICE OF AND ORDER FOR HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRS, FORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In Re: Estate of KATHRYN J. WOODRUFF, Decedent.

It is Ordered and Notice is given that on July 28, 2023, at 8:45 a.m., a hearing will be held in this Court at The Stearns County Judicial Center, 725 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, Minnesota 56303, on a petition for the adjudication of intestacy and determination of decedent’s heirs, and for the appointment of Nancy Gilles, whose address is 2950 County 45 NW, Hackensack, MN 56452, as personal representative of the decedent’s estate in an unsupervised administration. Any objections to the pe-

Former manager enshrined into Meadowlark Country Club Hall of Fame

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

Dave Anderson stepped into a new role as the club manager of the Meadowlark Country Club in Melrose in 1992 without any previous experience running a business.

However, a biology teacher at Melrose Public Schools, Anderson was eager to give this experiment a try, and over 30 years later, was enshrined into the Meadowlark Country Club Hall of Fame July 1.

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hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the Personal Representative will be appointed with the full power to administer the Estate, including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes, and expenses, to sell real and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the Estate.

Notice is also given that (subject to Minnesota Statutes section 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the Personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred. A charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceedings be given to the Attorney General pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 501B.41, subdivision 5. BY THE COURT

Dated: June 23, 2023

/s/ Cashman, William Judge of District Court

/s/ George Lock Court Administrator

Attorney for Personal Representative

Courtney Sebo Savica Sebo Savica Law Firm, PLLC 20 Second Avenue SW, Suite 176 Rochester, MN 55902

Attorney License No: 0391263

Telephone: (612) 360-0680

Email: courtney@savicalaw. com

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tition must be raised at the hearing or filed with the Court prior to the hearing. If the petition is proper and no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with the full power to administer the decedent’s estate, including the power to collect all assets; to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes, and expenses; to sell real and personal property; and to do all necessary acts for the decedent’s estate.

Notice is further given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3801, all creditors having claims against the decedent’s estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court within four (4) months after the date of this notice or the claims will be barred.

BY THE COURT

Dated: June 30, 2023 /s/ Vicki E. Landwehr

Breen & Person, Ltd.

“It was an honor and something I didn’t expect,” he said. “It’s nice to know what I did was appreciated. If I went down the names (of inductees), a lot of them are people that did things outside on the course, some of them were board members. They had a big part of doing things on the course. It’s nice to be identified with them.”

Anderson was notified a few months before the ceremony, which recognized the Melrose resident for his 11 years of detail-oriented, driven work within Meadowlark. When the night arrived, the longtime mentor received a plaque in front of a festive and full clubhouse, a well-earned reception for a figure who made lasting impressions all around the course.

“After the event, when I went home and talked to my wife and other people, I expressed how wonderful it really was,” said Jonathan Nietfeld, Meadowlark Country Club manager. “It brought back so many good memories and so many things people had forgotten about or details people have taken for granted that we owe appreciation for Dave for.”

One major identifying factor of Anderson’s managerial period was the advancement in technology at Meadowlark. When the instructor entered the position, finances and other important records were documented in handwritten fashion, logged in a large box full of papers. Anderson, who was already intrigued by computers, realized record keeping with a computer program would simplify and clean up the entire process.

“I was on the cutting edge a little bit and doing it before a lot of other people were,” he said. “I saw a lot of application out here, especially in the accounting part of it, keeping better track of our money, keeping

track of where it went, what it went for and running off reports for board meetings and saying, ‘This is what we made on green fees, this is what we made on memberships.’”

As it turned out, efficiency when it came to financial practice was a critical trait in the era of golf Anderson was stepping into. The sport was reaching its peak of popularity by the middle of Anderson’s management era, with Tiger Woods stepping on the PGA Tour and the game garnering a large appeal across a wider range of age demographics. That proved to be another fun challenge for Anderson, who himself began golfing in the 1970s. Even outside of the added computing element, he possessed a meticulousness that carried over into Meadowlark’s course management.

“I developed a system

for being able to make sure they (the board) knew where every nickel came from and every nickel went,” Anderson said. “It wasn’t long after I started here that we got audited by the state. … I remember the auditor who came and did that said, ‘You make my life so much easier.’”

Anderson was more than an attentive auditor-pleaser, however. His background as a teacher at the local school district gave him a strong foothold within the Melrose community. Parents and former students recognized him when they were out on the course, and he became a positive connecting point between the school and the surrounding area. This aspect gained another wrinkle when he became Melrose’s golf coach in 1998.

“I was fortunate to be hired by him and given the opportunity to work out

here, and I was his student at school,” Nietfeld said. “He has this dry humor that is just wonderful. He’s a storyteller. He’s easy to listen to and very detail-oriented. I think that was a big attribute.”

And whether it was a break-in that ended with the country club’s safe being hauled away in a pull cart or a fire, there was no shortage of seemingly-random stressful incidents thrown Anderson and Meadowlark’s way. However, through an eventful decade-long stretch, he prioritized the enjoyment of everyone around him as much as anything else.

“People play golf because they like it,” Anderson said. “Sometimes it’s families, or friends, or groups of people. They enjoy what they’re doing; they don’t come out here because they have to. So, you try and make that experience as good as you can.”

Accomplishing this objective took a lot of manpower that went far beyond what Anderson could manage alone. He was heavily supported by his late wife Bobbie; his daughters, Jen Traeger and Sarah Adams, assisted him around the course when he came aboard; and through the hard work of many others like superintendent Tom Spaeth and longtime “Flower Lady” Luz Jung, Meadowlark continued to thrive as a source of area athletic activity and good times.

“The people who actually worked on the course, we had good people,” Anderson said. “That also helped make my job a bit easier. I hardly fielded any complaints, but what I fielded were a lot of compliments.”

The nine-hole course has continued its progression and improvement in 2023, in part because of the work of one man who set out to make a difference.

“He was the right guy for the job,” Nietfeld said.

Albany Purple shows upside against Upsala-Swanville

BY GRANT JOHNSON CONTRIBUTING

Albany Purple was the only Babe Ruth team in action this week, as it took two games from Upsala-Swanville Area July 6.

WRITER the second inning, plating three more runs. This time, it took advantage of a couple of walks and an error. Boecker walked three times and scored two runs, Habben had a double and two RBIs and Wesen contributed two hits.

Judge of District Court /s/ George Lock Deputy Court

Laura J. Hansen, Esq.

Clerk

MN#0285912 111 6th Street South, Box 392

Walker, MN 56484

Telephone: (218) 547-3800

Facsimile: (218) 828-4832

e-mail: laura@breenandperson. com

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Game one started strong for Albany, who scored four runs in the first inning on its way to a 9-3 victory.

Hunter Boecker walked and Cohen Habben, Kyle Holm and Carter Wesen followed with three straight hits. Nathan Schneider delivered the final hit of the inning, an RBI single to score Wesen.

Albany was back at it again in

Holm was the winning pitcher, working four innings and striking out eight batters.

Game two also went Albany’s way, 10-1. Down 1-0, Albany turned small ball into a big second inning. After leadoff hits by Abraham Kalthoff and Brandon Hommen, Hudson Linn laid down a perfect bunt. The Upsala-Swanville Area pitcher fielded

the ball but sailed it into right field. Kalthoff and Hommen both scored on the play, and Linn ended up at third base. This sparked Albany, as Blake Iverson, Noah Davey, Boecker, Habben and Holm all reached base in the inning. When the dust settled, Albany had scored seven runs and put the game away. Holm and Iverson led the offense with two hits, and Kalthoff reached base three times.

The pitching staff was led by Boecker, Habben and Linn. Boecker and Linn each threw two innings, and Habben finished off the game by striking out the side in the fifth.

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Dave Anderson displays his Meadowlark Country Club Hall of Fame plaque July 6 at Meadowlark Country Club in Melrose. Anderson was the course’s manager for 11 years.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Dave Anderson gives a speech during his Hall of Fame induction July 1 at Meadowlark Country Club in Melrose. For Anderson, who was manager at the course for over a decade, it was an opportunity to relive old memories.

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Lakers win on walk-off single

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Avon readies for seeding-deciding matchup

BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER

It took all nine innings for a run to be scored, but the Avon Lakers did so with a walk-off single against the Pierz Lakers for a 1-0 win in Victory League competition July 7 at Blattner Field in Avon.

Avon’s Elian Mezquita led off the bottom of the ninth with a solid hit to left, sliding head first into second base. After a ground out, Cole Wellmann and Carter Philippi drew intentional walks to load the bases. Next up was Peyton Randall, and on a 2-1 count, he sent the ball between the left and center fielders, scoring Mezquita to end the game.

After that, the Lakers rushed onto the field and mobbed Randall in celebration.

Dominic Austing started and went six innings for Avon. Matt Pichelmann, who got the win, took over and threw three innings. Austing struck out 11 and Pichelmann two.

Noah Cekalla went the distance for Pierz.

“That’s a region baseball game or even a state tournament game,” said Matt Meyer, one of the co-managers of the Avon Lakers, about the atmo-

sphere and type of game it was.

“A lot of good things from that game for us.”

He noted the great pitching from Austing and Pichelmann and added “that was a big at-bat” from Randall.

Pierz had a good opportunity to score in the second inning, putting runners on second and third with no outs. Austing then struck out the side.

As the game went on, each team put runners on base, but the opposing team’s pitching and defense stifled any scoring chances.

“We did what we needed to do in the ninth to get the run across,” Meyer said. “A great job all around.”

Ryan Janzen and Mezquita got two hits each. Caleb Curry and Randall had a hit each.

Avon sits on top of the Victory League South/West Division ahead of St. Stephen, who will be in Avon Friday, July 14. The winner will get the No. 1 seed and the loser No. 2 when the league playoffs begin.

Meyer said the goal is to get back to the state tournament.

“We’ve got a good group here,” he said. “They are grinders, good baseball players.”

Avon will travel to Freeport Wednesday, July 12, to finish up a game that was suspended June 7 with the score tied at 2-2 in the bottom of the seventh.

Upsala 7, Avon 6

The Lakers traveled to Upsala July 8 to make up a

Join us in welcoming Christian Chapin, CNP, family medicine nurse practitioner.

Christian is a certified nurse practitioner dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centered care to patients of all ages. He has special interests in family medicine and emergency medicine.

Outside of work, Christian enjoys spending time doing outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing and camping.

Originally a native of Central Minnesota, Christian looks forward to serving and caring for area residents.

Call 320-256-4228 for an appointment.

525 Main Street West, Melrose CentraCare.com

game that was postponed from earlier in the season and lost 7-6.

Avon got off to good start, scoring two runs in the first and adding one in the third for a 3-0 lead, but the Blue Jays caught up and after the sixth inning, the score was tied at 5-5.

Avon scored a run to go ahead 6-5 in the eighth, but Upsala scored two in its half of the inning to go ahead 7-6.

Curry led Avon’s offense with three hits, including a solo home run in the eighth with two outs.

Wellmann and Philippi had two hits each.

Mezquita pitched the first six innings and Wellmann, who took the loss, came in for the final two.

Levi Lampert pitched the complete-game win for the Blue Jays.

Matt Swanson had three hits for Upsala, including a home run.

St. Joseph 2, Avon 1

Both teams pitched well, but the St. Joseph Joes were just a bit better in a 2-1 win over the Lakers July 5 in St. Joseph.

The Joes scored a run in the fourth and fifth. Avon scored its run in the sixth. Nick Merdan grounded into a fielder’s choice and eventually scored on a single by Reese Gregory.

Gregory got two hits in the game, with Mezquita and Elliot Allen getting one each.

Jackson Henderson pitched 3 1/3 innings and took the loss. Philippi pitched 1 2/3 innings and Joe Dolan one frame in the seven-inning game. Avon’s pitchers allowed just four hits. Henderson struck out three and Dolan one.

Christian Chapin, CNP

PHOTO

Peyton Randall (center) gets mobbed by his Avon Lakers teammates following his walk-off single for a 1-0 win over the Pierz Lakers July 7 at Blattner Field in Avon. The Victory League game was played under the lights and needed all nine innings for the first and only run of the game.

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