Sauk Centre Herald 08-24-2023

Rules for schools

Board reviews, approves handbook policies

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

In the face of changing times and legislation, Sauk Centre Public Schools is updating their policies on tardiness, discipline, safety and technology usage. During the school board’s Aug. 21 regular meeting in the school media center, Elementary Principal Amy Millard and High School Principal Sheila Flatau reviewed the major updates to the SCPS 2023-24 student-parent handbook.

The first couple of changes regarded the schools’ attendance policies. With the high school’s college credit courses, any absence of six days or more could result in a lower grade or even a loss of credit. Also, it used to be up to teachers in periods two through five to allow up to four tardy incidents before assigning detention, but that policy will be clarified as well.

Bigger

barn on the farm

Tutti Fruitti expands for events, storage

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

There is now more space to dance at the farm. Tutti Fruitti Restaurant and Market Farm near Sauk Centre recently completed their expansion, the dance barn, and are looking forward to hosting bigger functions and having more parties on site. With their annual Oktoberfest celebration Sept. 21, Kevin and Marlene Gwost are glad to provide a smooth, solid floor for people to dance on.

State cuts off Options for Women

“Last year, they were dancing on dirt and carpet,” Marlene said. “Just got an old carpet and laid it out on the dirt so they could dance on it, but now, they can really dance.”

Tutti Fruitti’s original vegetable sales area has been the restaurant’s dining room for some time, and the extended dining room used to be a garage that was added in 2018 and then turned into seating about a year later. The existing kitchen was also an add-on.

The latest addition was inspired by the tent Tutti Fruitti used to put up for larger events.

“For the last three or four years, we always had an Oktoberfest,” Kevin said.

Crisis pregnancy center’s annual gala a request for support

BY BEN SONNEK | STAFF WRITER

Options for Women in Sauk Centre is getting ready for their annual Evening for Life gala Saturday, Sept. 9, and this year, they need more community support than ever now that the state is no longer doing so.

“It’s a big deal for us,” said Mike Weisser, a member of the Options for Women board. “We’re scrambling now. We hope we can keep doing this, but I think God is going to take care of it. God willing, we’re going to be able to do it, but in the meantime, we’re fretting a little bit.”

Options for Women page 3

Salad is served

Gradatim Club takes on luncheon, other local initiatives

BY BEN SONNEK | STAFF WRITER

The Sauk Centre Gradatim Club has taken on the longstanding annual salad luncheon from United Methodist Church in Sauk Centre. Hundreds of locals came to First Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre Aug. 16 to make a meal of the wide range of salads, cookies, bars and desserts.

United Methodist Church in Sauk Centre originally held the salad luncheon for at least 35 years, but without the numbers to staff the event, the Gradatim Club volunteered to take it over last winter.

“I talked to some of the women at the church,”

said Bonnie Nelson, Sauk Centre Gradatim Club president and United Methodist Church member. “That salad luncheon was really popular and successful for the church and well-known in town because there’s such a variety of salads.”

Gradatim member Mary Zilka ran the luncheon, which brought in about 275 people.

“We had a great committee who worked hard,” Nelson said. “I was there on Tuesday (Aug. 15), and each work time, there were 15, maybe 20, people helping. Our Gradatim members really stepped up to make the project successful.”

Tutti Fruitti page 4

School board page 3

Gradatim page 2

PHOTO BY BEN SONNEK

(Above) The Tutti Fruitti Restaurant and Market Farm expansion has its sides closed Aug. 17 near Sauk Centre. The expansion will store machinery during the winter. (Left) Marlene and Kevin Gwost show off the interior of their new dance barn expansion Aug. 17 at Tutti Fruitti Restaurant and Market Farm near Sauk Centre. The expansion replaces the event tent the Gwosts would have to assemble for larger events like Oktoberfest.

PHOTO BY BEN SONNEK Sauk Centre Gradatim Club members – Vurnie Wilson (front, from left), Laurie Holman, Pat Super and Mary Rasmussen; and (back, from left) Sandi Friedrichs, Margy Umhoefer, Kathy Banke and Julie Jarvi – serve food during the Aug. 16 salad luncheon at First Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre. The luncheon was previously held for at least 35 years by United Methodist Church in Sauk Centre.

PHOTO BY BEN SONNEK

Options for Women director Colleen Cianflone boots up the ultrasound machine Aug. 21 at Options for Women in Sauk Centre. The crisis pregnancy center recently lost state support, which represented over a third of the organization’s budget.

Gradatim from front

The Gradatim Club reconvenes at 9 a.m. Sept. 13 at United Methodist Church, and their agenda will involve deciding what to do with the funds raised from the salad luncheon. Anyone interested in joining the club is welcome to attend.

The Sauk Centre Gra-

datim Club was founded as a literary society in October 1895 by nine community women, one of whom was Isabel Warner Lewis, stepmother of Sinclair Lewis. She was instrumental not only in forming the Sauk Centre club but also the Minnesota Federation of Women’s Clubs in Minne-

apolis. Today, the Gradatim Club has remained fairly steady with about 36 members for the last 10 years. Most of the women in the club are retired, although Nelson emphasizes that is not a condition for membership, and they are always looking for new members.

“(It’s) mostly by invitation,” Nelson said. “Somebody knows somebody who’s recently retired and

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says, ‘Hey, we have a great organization for women you should join.’”

The name Gradatim means “Moving forward step by step,” and the Gradatim Club’s mission is to improve the community’s social, cultural and physical environment; to promote an interest in and appreciation of the arts; become responsible, dynamic community leaders; to expand their horizons by meeting friends, cultivating interests, gaining knowledge and creating awareness of the changing world; and to be of service to others. They have donated to Dollars for Scholars, the Sauk Centre Food Shelf, the Friends of the Library, the Salvation Army and Sauk Centre’s Chalk in Sauk event.

They also help with the late start club at the Methodist church, giving students somewhere to go when there is a late start day at Sauk Centre schools.

“We provide all the staff who watch the kids,” Nelson said. “The church makes the breakfast, and Gradatim staffs it, so that’s one of our biggest things because it’s every month.”

The club also contributes to the Tender Loving Christmas program through fundraising, grants and wrapping presents.

providing treats for a nursing home birthday party, helping maintain the garden around the Sinclair Lewis Park fountain, making over 200 favors for nursing home and assisted living residents in the fall, creating handouts and business cards on teen dating violence prevention to be handed out at high school classes, purchasing and adding planters for the Sinclair Lewis Park veterans memorial and installing human trafficking awareness signs in bathrooms in town. The club, along with other members of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, are raising awareness about the problem of human trafficking this year.

“Each year, the national organization says this (top-

ic) is what we’d like you to do at least one project on,” Nelson said. “That has happened all the way through the history of the GFWC, and we know they did a lot during the women’s right to vote (movement). At the last state convention we went to, they showed us history slides of that time period.”

Through hosting the salad luncheon and their other activities, the Gradatim Club is eager to welcome women who are looking for a way to give back to Sauk Centre.

“This is an organization that will give you opportunities to serve the community and have fellowship and education with other women,” Nelson said.

H34-1B-JO

The Gradatim Club’s other projects include

PHOTO BY BEN SONNEK

Diners peruse the salads available at the salad luncheon Aug. 16 at First Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre. The Sauk Centre Gradatim Club was founded in October 1895 as a literary society.

Options for Women from front

Options for Women, affiliated with Elevate Life in St. Paul, was founded in Sauk Centre in 2004. Originally named the Central Minnesota Lifecare Center, they changed the name around 2014 so they would not be mistaken for a medical clinic.

“We spend more time talking to women when they do find out they’re pregnant, giving them options,” Weisser said. “Of course, we’re anti-abortion, there’s no doubt about that. … We really want to help (women) to not get that abortion and give them all kinds of options.”

Minnesota began giving out Positive Alternative Grants in 2006, which Options for Women began receiving in 2012, the same year Colleen Cianflone became the organization’s director.

“(Positive Alternatives) was a bipartisan bill,” Cianflone said. “Democrats and Republicans voted for it, and it was to help us give an alternative to abortion, to help women decide to not have an abortion and to support them for years.”

Options for Women used to receive $38,000 a year from the state, which would make up over a third of their annual budget. The funds

were used to buy clothes, diapers, baby food, formula, cradles, car seats, client education and more.

The new state legislature, though, has voted to end Positive Alternative Grants. Cianflone attributes the loss to Planned Parenthood financially supporting Minnesota legislators, as well as Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison who, in August 2023, placed a consumer alert on crisis pregnancy centers, claiming they provided misleading information about abortion and contraception and often did not provide services they claim to offer.

“Most of what we do is help poor people,” Cianflone said. “Social Services sends people here, so the government is not giving them everything they need.”

In 2022, Options for Women had 90 distinct clients, totaling about 1,000 visits and online education logins. About 80% of Options for Women’s clients are single women, some in long-term relationships. Some come in for pregnancy tests, STI testing and treatments, ultrasounds and baby items, and others are there for life coaching, spiritual counseling and other education. Options for Women has two registered nurses and an ultrasound technician but does not charge clients for their services.

“They have to do education to earn ‘mommy dollars’ to get our material

School board from front

“We talked with Matt (Aker), the new assistant principal, about what is feasible and manageable and fair, and we think we can do six tardies and then, after that, detention,” Flatau said.

“After 10 (tardy incidents), the language allows us to look at individual situations, but consequences could be possibly suspension.”

The school’s new office check-in system will be able to inform students as they check in how many tardy incidents they have and if they are to report to detention.

New state legislation prohibits the all-day suspension of students in kindergarten through third grade. While the elementary school has not suspended a student in this class range for years, they still reviewed their intervention options. For instance, there will be no recess detention unless the student in question is in danger of physically harming someone.

“We have already talked about some recess ideas because recess detention isn’t super effective all the time anyway,” Millard said.

“Those behaviors continue a lot of times when they go back out to recess, so I’m hoping some of the other ideas we have will help with that because recess is a challenging time for students and behaviors.”

Suspension will still be allowed as long as it is for less than a full school day and if the school can demonstrate their use of other less extreme measures first. Disciplinary rubrics for

goods,’ Cianflone said. “They learn a lot, and they all like the lessons. It’s on prenatal care and parenting, and we try to do a lot of relationship (counseling). … We help people find jobs, help them get health insurance, help them do a lot, not just the material goods.”

Clients most often hear about Options for Women through friends or relatives, followed by the organization’s website, social media presence, signage and referrals from social workers at area hospitals.

Without the grant from the state, Options for Women needs community support more than ever, but they have not found many in the area who know who they are and what they do. The support they need is not only financial; people are also welcome to donate children’s clothing and other baby items, and while they cannot accept used cradles or car seats for safety reasons, they can take new ones.

Options for Women’s primary fundraiser is their annual Evening for Life gala, which is being held Saturday, Sept. 9, at Diamond Point north of Sauk Centre. Social hour begins at 6 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m. The evening’s program features a talk from Emily Albrecht, director of education and outreach at the Equal Rights Institute and a member of the board of directors at Cradle of Hope, an organization providing financial and

that’s fine.”

Other school board news:

material assistance to families and pregnant women. A free will donation is taken for admission.

Now, without the state support Options for Women is considering holding another event in the spring.

“We are also talking to our local churches, more than we have in the past, asking for help from the pastors,” Weisser said. “There are lots of different ways we have to start looking at to raise money.”

For Cianflone, the most rewarding thing about Options for Women has been getting to know her clients, watching them change their lives for the better and seeing their babies.

“One girl was at the Planned Parenthood in the cities, and she didn’t really want to do it,” Cianflone said. “She called her friend, who told her about us, and she came to our center. Another girl – we’re going to read her testimonial at the Evening for Life – she was on drugs, she wanted an abortion, but her mother was begging her not to do it. … The baby’s four and a half months old, and she’s clean for a year.”

As a board member, Weisser is glad the organization is helping women choose their children instead of abortion.

“I joined the board strictly because I want to be part of a group that is helping women so they don’t get an abortion,” Weisser said.

Sauk Centre MCCL Meeting: 6 p.m., Monday, Aug. 28, at the Sauk Centre Truck Stop, Sauk Centre.

Youth ATV Field Day Safety Course: Sunday, Sept. 24, in Sauk Centre. Sponsored by the Sauk Centre Sno-Cleats. For information and registration call Chris Kerfeld at 320-766-7223.

Sauk Centre Senior Organization Meeting: Third Tuesday each month, 2 p.m. at the Sauk Centre Senior Center, Sauk Centre.

Pins and Needles Quilters Monthly Meeting: Second Tuesday of the month, 7-9 p.m. at the Sauk Centre Senior Center, 321 Fourth Street N., Sauk Centre. Goal is to promote the art of quilt making at all skill levels by discussion, lessons, and show and tell of your projects at our meetings.

Little Sauk Legion Auxiliary Unit 417 Meeting: Second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Little Sauk Legion, Little Sauk.

Western Stearns DFL Group: Meets every third Tuesday of the month, 6 p.m. potluck, 6:30 p.m. meeting. Location may vary, so please call 320-282-8312 for location. New members welcome!

Sauk Centre History Museum and Research Center: Museum hours are Sunday and Monday - closed, Tuesday 1-5 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday 1-5 p.m., Friday 12-4 p.m and Saturdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Located in the Sinclair Lewis Library building at 430 Main Street. Any questions, call 320-351-8777.

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

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

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

Alzheimer’s Support Group: Cristina Rodriguez, Care Navigator/Dementia Educator from D-CAN, is offering a support group the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. Located at Alternative Senior Care, 418 10th Street South, Sauk Centre. This service is on a donation-only basis and funded by Central MN Council on Aging as part of the Older Americans Act Program. If anyone wants to sign up for the support group or one-to-one coaching, they need to contact Cristina directly at (320) 640-6724.

BACK TO DANCE

Meet & Greet - Open House

JUST FOR KIX - SAUK CENTRE

August 30th • 5:30-7:00 pm

HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL - GYM

elementary and high school students – including what behaviors can be managed in the classroom and which need to be sent to the school office – will be posted throughout the buildings.

Minnesota schools are required to do lockdown drills, although there are not clear state guidelines yet concerning school active shooter drills, so the SCPS policies and practices around the measure have remained broadly unchanged. The school is considering ALICE training, a more proactive active shooter response system. Its acronym stands for the five response steps – Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate.

The school’s new cell phone policy was also reviewed. Grades five through eight will be required to keep their cell phones in their lockers from 8:20 a.m. through 3 p.m., unless a teacher allows phones to be brought into the classroom for learning.

Student grades will be available online and will no longer be mailed.

The board unanimously approved the student-parent handbook updates. Superintendent Don Peschel encourages anyone with questions or concerns about policies to contact the school.

“Parents are in charge of their kids,” Peschel said. “We’re a piece of their life, and we’ll try to do the best we can. There are sometimes situations where there’s disagreement, and

Doug Fuchs

– While the numbers are subject to change, the high school has a higher-than-usual 766 students enrolled, with the largest classes being seventh and 12th grades; 14 students have transferred out, 10 have transferred in and there are three foreign exchange students. There are 363 elementary students registered, but this number does not include preschool classes which Millard reported are full.

– The first student day for grades 5-12 is Thursday, Sept. 7, and the first student day for kindergarten through fourth grade is Monday, Sept. 11. With the ongoing elementary school construction, there will be one grade learning offsite and another that will be learning at various locations in the middle and high school. It is anticipated these measures will not last longer than three weeks.

– According to consulting firm SitelogIQ, the final cleanup for the elementary school renovation project is scheduled for Dec. 7. Much of the framing, metal panel and roofing installation is set for October.

– The three new propane buses for the bus fleet are scheduled to arrive in late August, but transportation director Jon Fevig expects them to arrive in mid-September. If the school acquires any more propane buses, they might have to look into installing an onsite propane tank.

– Approved the hiring of elementary paraprofessionals Angela Denne,

Yesenia Gonzalez, Aaron Marquardsen, Kailey Olson and Jamine Wiese and secondary paraprofessionals Trisha Bass, Abby Monson and Savanah Ridenour.

– Approved child care leave for secondary teacher Tami Gerads and elementary paraprofessional Christine Rudnick.

– Approved medical leave for elementary paraprofessional Nancy Ahrens.

– Approved the resignation of elementary paraprofessional Susan Wielenberg and the termination of custodian Samantha Boehmer.

– Approved the school’s emergency disaster preparedness plan and the 2023-24 E-learning plan, both of which are similar to last year’s plans.

– Re-approved Blue Cross Blue Shield as the school district’s health insurance provider.

– Approved a payroll and benefits contract with Amy Thieschafer.

– Approved the following donations: $500 from Modern Farm Equipment for the Sauk Centre Swim and Dive Concert for a Cause, $200 from JoAnn and Jack Meyer for the Angel Fund and $500 from Blattner Company for Sauk Centre Robotics.

The next school board regular meeting will be at 6:30 p.m., Monday, Sept. 18, in the school media center.

Jaime Ostendorf • 320-309-1988 • saukcentre_mn@justforkix.com

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Join

BELGRADE

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

ELROSA

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

SAUK CENTRE

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN 529 Main St. S 320-352-6882 goodsamaritansaukcentre.org

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

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

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

BROOTEN ST. DONATUS CATHOLIC CHURCH 301 Eastern Ave. 320-254-8218 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 504 Elm St. S 320-352-2827 saukcentreumc.org

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

OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS CATHOLIC CHURCH Ash St. and 7th St. 320-352-2196 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes ST. PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 304 Sinclair Lewis Ave. 320-352-2196 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes

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

320-351-7837

Sauk Centre

POLICE ACTIVITY

Monday, Aug. 14

03:56 hrs – Welfare check on 100 block of Daybreak Ln.

11:13 hrs – Road rage on Main St. S/12th St. S

15:32 hrs – Business assist on 400 block of Lincoln Loop

21:33 hrs – Medical emergency on 1200 block of Getty St.

23:18 hrs – Agency assist on I-94, mile marker 127

7 traffic stops – 1 seatbelt and 1 no MN driver’s license citations issued

Tuesday, Aug. 15

03:21 hrs – Lift assist on 1200 block of Getty St.

04:25 hrs – Alarm on 800 block of Shamrock Ln.

08:26 hrs – Personal assist on 300 block of Oak St. S

11:03 hrs – Personal assist at Walmart

13:21 hrs – Verbal dispute on 900 block of Beechnut Ct.

15:32 hrs – Accident on 300 block of Hwy. 71

16:40 hrs – Medical emergency on 200 block of 12th St. S

16:56 hrs – Park patrol on 500 block of Park Rd.

21:48 hrs – Hazard on Hwy. 71 S

23:33 hrs – Suicide attempt in Sauk Centre

1 extra patrol request

8 traffic stops – 1 speed and 1 no MN driver’s license citations issued

Wednesday, Aug. 16

00:04 hrs – Welfare check on 800 block of Pleasant St.

02:13 hrs – Motorist assist on I-94/Hwy. 71

13:19 hrs – Accident on 1100 block of Main St. S

14:45 hrs – Driving complaint on Hickman Dr.

14:52 hrs – Park patrol in Sinclair Lewis Park

15:28 hrs – Welfare check on 600 block of Birch St. S

19:28 hrs – Matter of information on 300 block of 12th St. S

21:14 hrs – Juvenile runaway on 800 block of Main St. S

21:56 hrs – Personal assist in Sauk Centre

23:57 hrs – Suspicious vehicle on 000 block of Main St. N

1 extra patrol request 5 traffic stops – 1 speed citation issued

Thursday, Aug. 17 04:46 hrs – Business assist on 500 block of Main St. W 07:12 hrs – Welfare check on 600 block of Birch St. S 08:40 hrs – Problem with juvenile on 700 block of 12th St. S

12:52 hrs – Medical emergency on 300 block of Hwy. 71

13:23 hrs – Alarm on 100 block of 4th St. N

13:50 hrs – Park patrol in Sinclair Lewis Park

17:31 hrs – Verbal dispute on 1300 block of Timberlane Dr.

17:59 hrs – Matter of information at Four Seas Buffet

18:37 hrs – Motorist assist on I-94, mile marker 127

19:30 hrs – Park patrol on 800 block of Park Rd.

20:02 hrs – Park patrol on 800 block of Park Rd.

21:31 hrs – Shoplifter on 200 block of 12th St. S

23:14 hrs – Suspicious activity on 1100 block of Beltline Rd.

2 extra patrol requests • 1 phone call

10 traffic stops – 1 speed citation issued

Friday, Aug. 18

00:11 hrs – Motorist assist on 12th St. S/Ash St. S

13:15 hrs – Matter of information at Sauk Centre Police Department

14:02 hrs – Fire alarm on 400 block of Elm St. N

14:31 hrs – Accident on 200 block of 7th St. S

15:24 hrs – Driving complaint on Main St. N/2nd St. N

15:55 hrs – Park patrol on 800 block of Park Rd.

18:26 hrs – Disorderly intoxicated person on 500 block of Sinclair Lewis Ave.

22:09 hrs – Park patrol on 800 block of Park Rd.

6 extra patrol requests • 2 citizen contacts • 1 gun permit

6 traffic stops – 1 instruction permit

City approves cannabis use ordinance

Measure allows local police to handle violations

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

The legalization of cannabis in Minnesota became effective Aug. 1, and Sauk Centre now has an ordinance in place to prevent the products from being used in unlicensed public areas or vaporized around minors. The Sauk Centre City Council approved the ordinance during their Aug. 16 meeting at Sauk Centre City Hall.

The state law allows cannabis use in a private residence, in another’s private property – unless prohibited by the property owner – and on the premises of an establishment or event with an on-site consumption permit. However, the law does not specify where cannabis use is not allowed, so Stearns County is proposing a county-wide ordinance. Because the city cannot enforce a county ordinance, jurisdictions have to adopt their own ordinances to allow their city police departments to have enforcement capabilities.

Sauk Centre’s ordinance prohibits the use of cannabis flower, cannabis

products, lower-potency hemp edibles or hemp-derived consumer products in public places or places of public accommodation unless the event or establishment is licensed to permit on-site consumption of adult-use cannabis flower and products. Cannabis flower and products, as well as artificially derived cannabinoids and hemp-derived consumer products, also cannot be vaporized in a location where the smoke, aerosol or vapor could be inhaled by a minor.

“The (ordinance) that is attached is basically the county’s ordinance,” said Sauk Centre City Administrator Vicki Willer. “We also added a provision that, in addition to a misdemeanor, it could be, at the discretion of the officer, an administrative penalty. Depending on the severity of it, it could go either way.”

A violation carries a fine payable up to $300 as a petty misdemeanor. The council later approved setting the administrative penalty fine at $150.

Other city council news: – Nature Energy is con-

Tutti Fruitti from front

“The first year we had (the tent) up, we had a terrific windstorm come through here and tip it over completely the night before Oktoberfest, so we had to straighten it. The poles inside were bent, so we worked until one o’clock in the morning, straightening out poles, and we had to make some of our own, and we had it back upright and

got the cover back on it.”

After that experience, the Gwosts wanted to build a structure instead of a tent.

They also wanted to have a space with a larger occupancy. They began building the expansion last fall, putting up the poles and roof before the winter and finished the walls in spring and summer.

tinuing through the process of potentially placing a biogas facility in Sauk Centre, currently working on a utility needs and availability analysis which includes water, sewer and electrical utilities. Early afternoon and evening open houses will be scheduled for a future date, and a public website with a Q&A and comment section is available online at us.nature-energy.com. The site includes a dropdown section specifically for Sauk Centre. – The Sauk Centre Public Works 1998 Sand Pro, used to groom the sand at local ballfields, is reaching the end of its usable life and needs to be replaced. The city’s parks department has funds for replacing machinery, enough to cover the estimated $15,000 it would take to buy another Sand Pro.

– Approved the step advancement of SCPW supervisor Ben Clink effective Oct. 1. Clink has worked for the city since Oct. 1, 2018.

– Approved the resignation of Don Struss from SCPW Maintenance effective Sept. 14. Struss has worked for the city since September 2006.

– Approved the termination of a cleaning con-

While the Gwosts wanted more space, the size of their expansion was limited by the road’s proximity.

“We can’t go any bigger,” Marlene said. “You have to be so many feet away from the middle of the highway. But, if we have to, if our Oktoberfest keeps getting bigger, we can always put the tent (on the side).”

The structure of the dance barn is enclosed,

tract termination with Sara Struss, who notified the city she will no longer be able to provide cleaning services for city buildings effective Aug. 21.

– Approved the appointment of Sarah Larson as a Sauk Centre Ambulance Service Emergency Medical Responder. The council also authorized Jordan Hartmann with the SCAS to attend EMT class beginning Aug. 31.

– Approved a minor subdivision request from Allan and Susan Coenen to split a Pendergast Street lot in two and combine each portion with their subdivided adjoining properties.

– Approved a $428,488.41 pay request from Kuechle Underground for their work on the Authors Addition project.

– Approved the following public hearings for 6:30 p.m., Oct. 4: certification of special assessments for delinquent utility and service accounts, final assessments for the 2023 street reclamation project and final assessments for the Authors Addition project.

– The council’s budget meeting will be at 5 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 31.

The next city council meeting will be at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 6.

but every other wall panel can open for fair weather events. Lighting will soon be installed, and insulation and a ceiling may also be added at some point.

The space will be used as machinery storage during the winter, but in the summer, the Gwosts are hoping to host more events including concerts, weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties and more. They estimate their occupancy with the expansion can be 150-200 people, not counting the main dining area.

Before winter comes, the Gwosts are thinking about selling Christmas trees out of the dance barn.

“That way, we can have it open if the weather’s nice, but if it’s snowing and blowing, we can close it up,” Kevin said. “People can shop in comfort, even if it’s really cold, windy and snowing outside.”

The main thing the Gwosts are looking forward to about the expansion, though, is how many more people they can welcome to the farm.

“Yesterday (Aug. 16), a tour bus came in and filled up the whole room,” Marlene said. “It was nice to have them.”

Sauk Centre students on SCTCC academic achievement lists

ST. CLOUD– St. Cloud Technical and Community College has announced their academic achievement lists for the 2023 spring semester. The Sauk Centre students on the lists include Pierce Heinze, Jenna Visker and Brianna Weispfennig on the president’s list and Alyssa Denk and Lesley Mejia-Gonzalez on the dean’s list.

To earn recognition on the dean’s list, a student must have a GPA of 3.5 to 3.99, and to be recognized on the

Gradatim from front

The Gradatim Club reconvenes at 9 a.m. Sept. 13 at United Methodist Church, and their agenda will involve deciding what to do with the funds raised from the salad luncheon. Anyone interested in joining the club is welcome to attend.

The Sauk Centre Gra-

datim Club was founded as a literary society in October 1895 by nine community women, one of whom was Isabel Warner Lewis, stepmother of Sinclair Lewis. She was instrumental not only in forming the Sauk Centre club but also the Minnesota Federation of Women’s Clubs in Minne-

apolis. Today, the Gradatim Club has remained fairly steady with about 36 members for the last 10 years. Most of the women in the club are retired, although Nelson emphasizes that is not a condition for membership, and they are always looking for new members.

“(It’s) mostly by invitation,” Nelson said. “Somebody knows somebody who’s recently retired and

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says, ‘Hey, we have a great organization for women you should join.’”

The name Gradatim means “Moving forward step by step,” and the Gradatim Club’s mission is to improve the community’s social, cultural and physical environment; to promote an interest in and appreciation of the arts; become responsible, dynamic community leaders; to expand their horizons by meeting friends, cultivating interests, gaining knowledge and creating awareness of the changing world; and to be of service to others. They have donated to Dollars for Scholars, the Sauk Centre Food Shelf, the Friends of the Library, the Salvation Army and Sauk Centre’s Chalk in Sauk event.

They also help with the late start club at the Methodist church, giving students somewhere to go when there is a late start day at Sauk Centre schools.

“We provide all the staff who watch the kids,” Nelson said. “The church makes the breakfast, and Gradatim staffs it, so that’s one of our biggest things because it’s every month.”

The club also contributes to the Tender Loving Christmas program through fundraising, grants and wrapping presents.

providing treats for a nursing home birthday party, helping maintain the garden around the Sinclair Lewis Park fountain, making over 200 favors for nursing home and assisted living residents in the fall, creating handouts and business cards on teen dating violence prevention to be handed out at high school classes, purchasing and adding planters for the Sinclair Lewis Park veterans memorial and installing human trafficking awareness signs in bathrooms in town. The club, along with other members of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, are raising awareness about the problem of human trafficking this year.

“Each year, the national organization says this (top-

ic) is what we’d like you to do at least one project on,” Nelson said. “That has happened all the way through the history of the GFWC, and we know they did a lot during the women’s right to vote (movement). At the last state convention we went to, they showed us history slides of that time period.”

Through hosting the salad luncheon and their other activities, the Gradatim Club is eager to welcome women who are looking for a way to give back to Sauk Centre.

“This is an organization that will give you opportunities to serve the community and have fellowship and education with other women,” Nelson said.

H34-1B-JO

The Gradatim Club’s other projects include

PHOTO BY BEN SONNEK

Diners peruse the salads available at the salad luncheon Aug. 16 at First Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre. The Sauk Centre Gradatim Club was founded in October 1895 as a literary society.

Options for Women from front

Options for Women, affiliated with Elevate Life in St. Paul, was founded in Sauk Centre in 2004. Originally named the Central Minnesota Lifecare Center, they changed the name around 2014 so they would not be mistaken for a medical clinic.

“We spend more time talking to women when they do find out they’re pregnant, giving them options,” Weisser said. “Of course, we’re anti-abortion, there’s no doubt about that. … We really want to help (women) to not get that abortion and give them all kinds of options.”

Minnesota began giving out Positive Alternative Grants in 2006, which Options for Women began receiving in 2012, the same year Colleen Cianflone became the organization’s director.

“(Positive Alternatives) was a bipartisan bill,” Cianflone said. “Democrats and Republicans voted for it, and it was to help us give an alternative to abortion, to help women decide to not have an abortion and to support them for years.”

Options for Women used to receive $38,000 a year from the state, which would make up over a third of their annual budget. The funds

were used to buy clothes, diapers, baby food, formula, cradles, car seats, client education and more.

The new state legislature, though, has voted to end Positive Alternative Grants. Cianflone attributes the loss to Planned Parenthood financially supporting Minnesota legislators, as well as Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison who, in August 2023, placed a consumer alert on crisis pregnancy centers, claiming they provided misleading information about abortion and contraception and often did not provide services they claim to offer.

“Most of what we do is help poor people,” Cianflone said. “Social Services sends people here, so the government is not giving them everything they need.”

In 2022, Options for Women had 90 distinct clients, totaling about 1,000 visits and online education logins. About 80% of Options for Women’s clients are single women, some in long-term relationships. Some come in for pregnancy tests, STI testing and treatments, ultrasounds and baby items, and others are there for life coaching, spiritual counseling and other education. Options for Women has two registered nurses and an ultrasound technician but does not charge clients for their services.

“They have to do education to earn ‘mommy dollars’ to get our material

School board from front

“We talked with Matt (Aker), the new assistant principal, about what is feasible and manageable and fair, and we think we can do six tardies and then, after that, detention,” Flatau said.

“After 10 (tardy incidents), the language allows us to look at individual situations, but consequences could be possibly suspension.”

The school’s new office check-in system will be able to inform students as they check in how many tardy incidents they have and if they are to report to detention.

New state legislation prohibits the all-day suspension of students in kindergarten through third grade. While the elementary school has not suspended a student in this class range for years, they still reviewed their intervention options. For instance, there will be no recess detention unless the student in question is in danger of physically harming someone.

“We have already talked about some recess ideas because recess detention isn’t super effective all the time anyway,” Millard said.

“Those behaviors continue a lot of times when they go back out to recess, so I’m hoping some of the other ideas we have will help with that because recess is a challenging time for students and behaviors.”

Suspension will still be allowed as long as it is for less than a full school day and if the school can demonstrate their use of other less extreme measures first. Disciplinary rubrics for

goods,’ Cianflone said. “They learn a lot, and they all like the lessons. It’s on prenatal care and parenting, and we try to do a lot of relationship (counseling). … We help people find jobs, help them get health insurance, help them do a lot, not just the material goods.”

Clients most often hear about Options for Women through friends or relatives, followed by the organization’s website, social media presence, signage and referrals from social workers at area hospitals.

Without the grant from the state, Options for Women needs community support more than ever, but they have not found many in the area who know who they are and what they do. The support they need is not only financial; people are also welcome to donate children’s clothing and other baby items, and while they cannot accept used cradles or car seats for safety reasons, they can take new ones.

Options for Women’s primary fundraiser is their annual Evening for Life gala, which is being held Saturday, Sept. 9, at Diamond Point north of Sauk Centre. Social hour begins at 6 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m. The evening’s program features a talk from Emily Albrecht, director of education and outreach at the Equal Rights Institute and a member of the board of directors at Cradle of Hope, an organization providing financial and

that’s fine.”

Other school board news:

material assistance to families and pregnant women. A free will donation is taken for admission.

Now, without the state support Options for Women is considering holding another event in the spring.

“We are also talking to our local churches, more than we have in the past, asking for help from the pastors,” Weisser said. “There are lots of different ways we have to start looking at to raise money.”

For Cianflone, the most rewarding thing about Options for Women has been getting to know her clients, watching them change their lives for the better and seeing their babies.

“One girl was at the Planned Parenthood in the cities, and she didn’t really want to do it,” Cianflone said. “She called her friend, who told her about us, and she came to our center. Another girl – we’re going to read her testimonial at the Evening for Life – she was on drugs, she wanted an abortion, but her mother was begging her not to do it. … The baby’s four and a half months old, and she’s clean for a year.”

As a board member, Weisser is glad the organization is helping women choose their children instead of abortion.

“I joined the board strictly because I want to be part of a group that is helping women so they don’t get an abortion,” Weisser said.

Sauk Centre MCCL Meeting: 6 p.m., Monday, Aug. 28, at the Sauk Centre Truck Stop, Sauk Centre.

Youth ATV Field Day Safety Course: Sunday, Sept. 24, in Sauk Centre. Sponsored by the Sauk Centre Sno-Cleats. For information and registration call Chris Kerfeld at 320-766-7223.

Sauk Centre Senior Organization Meeting: Third Tuesday each month, 2 p.m. at the Sauk Centre Senior Center, Sauk Centre.

Pins and Needles Quilters Monthly Meeting: Second Tuesday of the month, 7-9 p.m. at the Sauk Centre Senior Center, 321 Fourth Street N., Sauk Centre. Goal is to promote the art of quilt making at all skill levels by discussion, lessons, and show and tell of your projects at our meetings.

Little Sauk Legion Auxiliary Unit 417 Meeting: Second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Little Sauk Legion, Little Sauk.

Western Stearns DFL Group: Meets every third Tuesday of the month, 6 p.m. potluck, 6:30 p.m. meeting. Location may vary, so please call 320-282-8312 for location. New members welcome!

Sauk Centre History Museum and Research Center: Museum hours are Sunday and Monday - closed, Tuesday 1-5 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday 1-5 p.m., Friday 12-4 p.m and Saturdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Located in the Sinclair Lewis Library building at 430 Main Street. Any questions, call 320-351-8777.

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

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

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

Alzheimer’s Support Group: Cristina Rodriguez, Care Navigator/Dementia Educator from D-CAN, is offering a support group the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. Located at Alternative Senior Care, 418 10th Street South, Sauk Centre. This service is on a donation-only basis and funded by Central MN Council on Aging as part of the Older Americans Act Program. If anyone wants to sign up for the support group or one-to-one coaching, they need to contact Cristina directly at (320) 640-6724.

BACK TO DANCE

Meet & Greet -

JUST FOR KIX - SAUK CENTRE

August 30th • 5:30-7:00 pm

HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL - GYM

elementary and high school students – including what behaviors can be managed in the classroom and which need to be sent to the school office – will be posted throughout the buildings.

Minnesota schools are required to do lockdown drills, although there are not clear state guidelines yet concerning school active shooter drills, so the SCPS policies and practices around the measure have remained broadly unchanged. The school is considering ALICE training, a more proactive active shooter response system. Its acronym stands for the five response steps – Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate.

The school’s new cell phone policy was also reviewed. Grades five through eight will be required to keep their cell phones in their lockers from 8:20 a.m. through 3 p.m., unless a teacher allows phones to be brought into the classroom for learning.

Student grades will be available online and will no longer be mailed.

The board unanimously approved the student-parent handbook updates. Superintendent Don Peschel encourages anyone with questions or concerns about policies to contact the school.

“Parents are in charge of their kids,” Peschel said. “We’re a piece of their life, and we’ll try to do the best we can. There are sometimes situations where there’s disagreement, and

Doug Fuchs

– While the numbers are subject to change, the high school has a higher-than-usual 766 students enrolled, with the largest classes being seventh and 12th grades; 14 students have transferred out, 10 have transferred in and there are three foreign exchange students. There are 363 elementary students registered, but this number does not include preschool classes which Millard reported are full.

– The first student day for grades 5-12 is Thursday, Sept. 7, and the first student day for kindergarten through fourth grade is Monday, Sept. 11. With the ongoing elementary school construction, there will be one grade learning offsite and another that will be learning at various locations in the middle and high school. It is anticipated these measures will not last longer than three weeks.

– According to consulting firm SitelogIQ, the final cleanup for the elementary school renovation project is scheduled for Dec. 7. Much of the framing, metal panel and roofing installation is set for October.

– The three new propane buses for the bus fleet are scheduled to arrive in late August, but transportation director Jon Fevig expects them to arrive in mid-September. If the school acquires any more propane buses, they might have to look into installing an onsite propane tank.

– Approved the hiring of elementary paraprofessionals Angela Denne,

Yesenia Gonzalez, Aaron Marquardsen, Kailey Olson and Jamine Wiese and secondary paraprofessionals Trisha Bass, Abby Monson and Savanah Ridenour.

– Approved child care leave for secondary teacher Tami Gerads and elementary paraprofessional Christine Rudnick.

– Approved medical leave for elementary paraprofessional Nancy Ahrens.

– Approved the resignation of elementary paraprofessional Susan Wielenberg and the termination of custodian Samantha Boehmer.

– Approved the school’s emergency disaster preparedness plan and the 2023-24 E-learning plan, both of which are similar to last year’s plans.

– Re-approved Blue Cross Blue Shield as the school district’s health insurance provider.

– Approved a payroll and benefits contract with Amy Thieschafer.

– Approved the following donations: $500 from Modern Farm Equipment for the Sauk Centre Swim and Dive Concert for a Cause, $200 from JoAnn and Jack Meyer for the Angel Fund and $500 from Blattner Company for Sauk Centre Robotics.

The next school board regular meeting will be at 6:30 p.m., Monday, Sept. 18, in the school media center.

Jaime Ostendorf • 320-309-1988 • saukcentre_mn@justforkix.com

CLASSES BEGIN SEPT. 7th! www.justforkix.com/danceclasses

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

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EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN 529 Main St. S 320-352-6882 goodsamaritansaukcentre.org

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

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

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

BROOTEN ST. DONATUS CATHOLIC CHURCH 301 Eastern Ave. 320-254-8218 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 504 Elm St. S 320-352-2827 saukcentreumc.org

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

OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS CATHOLIC CHURCH Ash St. and 7th St. 320-352-2196 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes ST. PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 304 Sinclair Lewis Ave. 320-352-2196 parishesontheprairie.org/parishes

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

Sauk Centre

POLICE ACTIVITY

City approves cannabis use ordinance

Measure allows local police to handle violations

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

The legalization of cannabis in Minnesota became effective Aug. 1, and Sauk Centre now has an ordinance in place to prevent the products from being used in unlicensed public areas or vaporized around minors. The Sauk Centre City Council approved the ordinance during their Aug. 16 meeting at Sauk Centre City Hall.

The state law allows cannabis use in a private residence, in another’s private property – unless prohibited by the property owner – and on the premises of an establishment or event with an on-site consumption permit. However, the law does not specify where cannabis use is not allowed, so Stearns County is proposing a county-wide ordinance. Because the city cannot enforce a county ordinance, jurisdictions have to adopt their own ordinances to allow their city police departments to have enforcement capabilities.

Sauk Centre’s ordinance prohibits the use of cannabis flower, cannabis

hrs – Motorist assist on 12th St. S/Ash St. S 13:15 hrs – Matter of information at Sauk Centre Police Department

14:02 hrs – Fire alarm on 400 block of Elm St. N 14:31 hrs – Accident on 200 block of 7th St. S 15:24 hrs – Driving complaint on Main St. N/2nd St. N 15:55 hrs – Park patrol on 800 block of Park Rd. 18:26 hrs – Disorderly intoxicated person on 500 block of Sinclair Lewis Ave. 22:09 hrs – Park patrol on 800 block of Park Rd. 6 extra patrol requests • 2 citizen contacts • 1 gun permit 6 traffic stops – 1 instruction permit

products, lower-potency hemp edibles or hemp-derived consumer products in public places or places of public accommodation unless the event or establishment is licensed to permit on-site consumption of adult-use cannabis flower and products. Cannabis flower and products, as well as artificially derived cannabinoids and hemp-derived consumer products, also cannot be vaporized in a location where the smoke, aerosol or vapor could be inhaled by a minor.

“The (ordinance) that is attached is basically the county’s ordinance,” said Sauk Centre City Administrator Vicki Willer. “We also added a provision that, in addition to a misdemeanor, it could be, at the discretion of the officer, an administrative penalty. Depending on the severity of it, it could go either way.”

A violation carries a fine payable up to $300 as a petty misdemeanor. The council later approved setting the administrative penalty fine at $150.

Other city council news: – Nature Energy is con-

Tutti Fruitti from front

“The first year we had (the tent) up, we had a terrific windstorm come through here and tip it over completely the night before Oktoberfest, so we had to straighten it. The poles inside were bent, so we worked until one o’clock in the morning, straightening out poles, and we had to make some of our own, and we had it back upright and

got the cover back on it.”

After that experience, the Gwosts wanted to build a structure instead of a tent.

They also wanted to have a space with a larger occupancy. They began building the expansion last fall, putting up the poles and roof before the winter and finished the walls in spring and summer.

tinuing through the process of potentially placing a biogas facility in Sauk Centre, currently working on a utility needs and availability analysis which includes water, sewer and electrical utilities. Early afternoon and evening open houses will be scheduled for a future date, and a public website with a Q&A and comment section is available online at us.nature-energy.com. The site includes a dropdown section specifically for Sauk Centre. – The Sauk Centre Public Works 1998 Sand Pro, used to groom the sand at local ballfields, is reaching the end of its usable life and needs to be replaced. The city’s parks department has funds for replacing machinery, enough to cover the estimated $15,000 it would take to buy another Sand Pro.

– Approved the step advancement of SCPW supervisor Ben Clink effective Oct. 1. Clink has worked for the city since Oct. 1, 2018.

– Approved the resignation of Don Struss from SCPW Maintenance effective Sept. 14. Struss has worked for the city since September 2006.

– Approved the termination of a cleaning con-

While the Gwosts wanted more space, the size of their expansion was limited by the road’s proximity.

“We can’t go any bigger,” Marlene said. “You have to be so many feet away from the middle of the highway. But, if we have to, if our Oktoberfest keeps getting bigger, we can always put the tent (on the side).”

The structure of the dance barn is enclosed,

tract termination with Sara Struss, who notified the city she will no longer be able to provide cleaning services for city buildings effective Aug. 21.

– Approved the appointment of Sarah Larson as a Sauk Centre Ambulance Service Emergency Medical Responder. The council also authorized Jordan Hartmann with the SCAS to attend EMT class beginning Aug. 31.

– Approved a minor subdivision request from Allan and Susan Coenen to split a Pendergast Street lot in two and combine each portion with their subdivided adjoining properties.

– Approved a $428,488.41 pay request from Kuechle Underground for their work on the Authors Addition project.

– Approved the following public hearings for 6:30 p.m., Oct. 4: certification of special assessments for delinquent utility and service accounts, final assessments for the 2023 street reclamation project and final assessments for the Authors Addition project.

– The council’s budget meeting will be at 5 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 31.

The next city council meeting will be at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 6.

but every other wall panel can open for fair weather events. Lighting will soon be installed, and insulation and a ceiling may also be added at some point.

The space will be used as machinery storage during the winter, but in the summer, the Gwosts are hoping to host more events including concerts, weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties and more. They estimate their occupancy with the expansion can be 150-200 people, not counting the main dining area.

Before winter comes, the Gwosts are thinking about selling Christmas trees out of the dance barn.

“That way, we can have it open if the weather’s nice, but if it’s snowing and blowing, we can close it up,” Kevin said. “People can shop in comfort, even if it’s really cold, windy and snowing outside.”

The main thing the Gwosts are looking forward to about the expansion, though, is how many more people they can welcome to the farm.

“Yesterday (Aug. 16), a tour bus came in and filled up the whole room,” Marlene said. “It was nice to have them.”

Sauk Centre students on SCTCC academic achievement lists

ST. CLOUD– St. Cloud Technical and Community College has announced their academic achievement lists for the 2023 spring semester. The Sauk Centre students on the lists include Pierce Heinze, Jenna Visker and Brianna Weispfennig on the president’s list and Alyssa Denk and Lesley Mejia-Gonzalez on the dean’s list.

To earn recognition on the dean’s list, a student must have a GPA of

to 3.99, and to be recognized

in humility, perseverance, gratitude

I searched high and low Saturday night for my missing vehicle key; inside and outside my SUV, retracing my tracks and even going through my garbage, which was not a pleasant task. But I came up empty handed.

Yes, I have another key for my vehicle, but that second key has come in handy over the years, including the time when one key didn’t work due to a battery drain. So, I always carry two sets of keys with me.

I tossed and turned most of the night, that missing key on my mind. I got out of bed around midnight after I thought of another place where it could be. Did I drop it when I took bottled water out of the back of my vehicle? After all, my hands were full and that could have possibly happened. But no key was found. Sunday morning, I was determined because that key had to be somewhere. I went through my garbage again and, for some reason, the trash must have gotten rearranged when I rummaged through it the night before because right off the bat I spied the key fob attached to the key chain – and it was even free from garbage debris. I breathed a sigh of relief and said, “Thank you St. Anthony.”

From the Heart by Carol Moorman

As Catholics, we are taught to pray to St. Anthony when we lose something. According to the internet, St. Anthony

received from God the special power of restoring lost or stolen things. I said a prayer asking St. Anthony for his help the night before but it took him a while to answer that prayer. Maybe his list of people needing his help was long.

Just how and when my key got tossed in the garbage is unknown to me, because the key was on the kitchen counter with my other set of keys and that set was just fine.

It must have been to teach me lessons in humility, perseverance and gratitude. Humility, because I had to go through that garbage twice; perseverance, because I was bound and determined to find it; and gratitude, because I found it.

The experience had me thinking what it must be like for people experiencing dementia, who can’t remember things of a more critical nature, like their children or grandchildren’s names, where they live or what their phone number is.

We take all of those things for granted – until we lose the ability to remember, and it’s more than just a senior moment.

Misplacing my key is minor compared to what people with dementia experience daily.

I’m thankful I now have two sets of keys once again –and, more importantly, a mind that is still intact.

Signing off

As I write today’s article, my setting is a little bit different than normal. Rather than writing in my bedroom, at the kitchen table or on the couch, I’m sitting at my dorm room desk in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. A time I never imagined actually happening is suddenly here.

Sunday morning, I sat on my bed for too long, wishing I could just stay in the comfort of my room forever. I knew what lay ahead of me in the next 12 hours, and I didn’t want to start any part of it. Of course, it didn’t help that, when I finally did get out of bed and went to wake up my parents and sister, they hit me with the comment of, “We aren’t getting up unless you are staying.” Thanks, guys. That’s really helping a lot right now. We eventually did get on the road, set my dorm up, make a Target run and say goodbye. The amount of emotions felt in that short amount of time was more different than anything I had experienced, besides possibly what I felt during graduation in May.

While reflecting on my time at Sauk Centre Secondary School, it’s hard to believe everything that happened. From dealing with COVID during freshman year to graduating just a short time ago, the four years I thought were going by painfully slow were actually speeding by me. I kept myself busy with numerous clubs, sports, organizations and theater productions, but it still didn’t halt time like I had expected it to. I’m blessed for the time spent and honors received through these activities, and I’m hoping they helped put me on a successful track in college.

The part that made me truly realize how connected I was to Sauk Centre and how much love and support I had gained there was the goodbyes. There were so many amazing people

“How nice to meet you,” I said as I embraced a woman I had met just moments earlier.

My children were quick to inform me it had been quite a while that we’d been speaking to this husband and wife; however, my children weren’t cross about the encounter, nor the time it had taken from our afternoon. Instead, they were eager to ask the many questions they’d kept quietly inside their precious heads while my husband, Shawn, and I spoke to a couple we’d strolled by while on vacation last week.

Let’s back up to understand the context. Shawn and I took our children on a road trip last week to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. We went tent camping. We all learned a fair amount about one another and about proper bear protocol in bear country. Bear bins are wonderful.

Something else we learned rather quickly was how much attention people pay to the fashion choices of those around them. Shawn brought along a rather patriotic wardrobe, and it certainly didn’t go without notice. Some took offense, while most complimented Shawn’s attire, and a few people even asked to take pictures. It seemed like we were on vacation with a celebrity.

Actually, a compliment to Shawn’s shirt on Thursday afternoon is where the idea for this column was born.

We were walking back to our vehicle to grab our swimming gear when we happened to cross paths with another couple. I saw the husband and wife turn to one another and smile, and soon a compliment was given in Shawn’s direction. This struck up a conversation I never saw coming.

There was the usual small chatter followed by a few observations. The couple had noticed our family as they’d approached and complimented not only Shawn’s shirt but our children and their manners too. It wasn’t long and this couple

Spreading wings

My wife and I have coffee most mornings out in front of our house. There was a time when a momma bird would swoop down low just to let us know not to go near the nest high above where she had her babies.

Those babies have since spread their wings and flown on to bigger and brighter skies. We’re not sure if momma is still around, but we imagine she knows exactly where her babies are.

Periodicals postage pending at Sauk Centre, MN Published by Star Publications Copyright 2023 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave. Sauk Centre, MN 56378 320-352-6577 • www.star-pub.com HOURS: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Subject to change during holidays.

I had to hug, write to or tell I’m leaving for a while. I didn’t realize what I had until it was all gone, which makes me both sad and appreciative. There are truly no people in the world like the Streeter community, and it’s weird to think I won’t get to be a part of it for a while.

I’m sure most people are already wondering how college is, and to answer honestly, it’s very strange. Because of playing tennis in college, I moved in two weeks before the rest of the student body. My roommate doesn’t arrive for two more weeks, there’s no sign of life on my floor, and I’m just now meeting the team. For a girl who is used to being extremely busy and social, this has been a weird experience. But, by the time everyone else is on campus, I’m sure I’ll be a lot more comfortable with my environment and not as out of place, a feeling I’m still not used to.

Writing for the Sauk Centre Herald these past nine months has been an amazing opportunity. Thank you to those who tune in to my article every other week and to those who randomly remember it’s here sometimes and decide to give it a read. I’m truly grateful and blessed to have people that enjoy my writing, especially since I’m only 19. I would also like to thank the Herald for this amazing opportunity and to my English teacher, Ms. Winters, for putting it on my radar.

As I close this chapter of my life and step toward the state of cheese and amazing football teams, I’m excited and scared for what’s to come. However, I take comfort in knowing when I come home to visit, I have a full community of welcoming people waiting for me.

I’m Hailey Hokanson, and this has been Hok’s View.

started to share their life stories.

As we stood there and listened, I couldn’t help but try to catalog every moment into my core memory. This was truly one of those moments in life I don’t want to forget.

We learned the couple were owners of a business just outside of the greater Los Angeles area, and they were vacationing too. However, as the conversation continued, they shared how they had immigrated to the United States in their late teens from Armenia, and how the current climate of immigration and politics in the United States has them nervous for what the future holds.

The way they each spoke of their immigration process and what pride they took in doing things the right way – their words, not mine – really got my mind spinning. Then came the moment where my head almost exploded. The wife of the couple said, “I came from a country rooted in communism, and if people don’t wake up, stand up and see what is happening, we are all in for a rude awakening. I know how to survive that kind of country, but I know many here that do not.”

I stood there almost as if someone had hit pause on the conversation. What had this woman just said?

Whether you’re right, left or center politically, I believe her comment should command attention from all. I know those words will resonate in my head and heart for many years to come. I certainly got more than just souvenirs from the gift shops on our trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

I know they will likely never read this column, but I would still like to say thank you to this beautiful couple who took their time to share so much with our family. Shawn, our children and I are truly grateful for all they shared.

Joyce Frericks ......................Publisher ....................................................joyce@saukherald.co

Missy Traeger ......................Sales Manager/Marketing ...............missy@saukherald.com

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

Nancy Powell.......................Manager ................................................nancy.p@dairystar.com

Tim Vos ..................................Manager ......................................................tim.v@star-pub.com

Amanda Thooft ..................Production Mgr./Page Layout ...amanda@saukherald.com

Karen Knoblach ..................Graphic Design/Proofing...................karen.k@star-pub.com

Maddy Peterson .................Graphic Design .....................................maddy@star-pub.com

Cheyenne Middendorf ....Graphic Design ...............................cheyenne@star-pub.com

Annika Gunderson ............Graphic Design ......................................annika@star-pub.com

Jill Borgerding.....................Office Assistant ...........................................jill.b@star-pub.com

Ben Sonnek ..........................Co-Editor ...............................................ben.s@saukherald.com

In Other Words by

Bryan Zollman

We also used to have more cars parked on our street, but like those baby birds, those cars have hit the open highway. We sent two kids to college this week, leaving our home a little bit like that momma bird’s nest. Sure, the leaves still rustle in the wind, but there’s a lot less chirping going on. It’s just different.

For high school parents, this is an exciting time of year. While summer may have gone by much too fast, another hurdle has been cleared as a child moves up a grade and readies themselves for new challenges in the classroom and in their extracurricular activities.

For those with high school seniors, it is a special time and an emotional one. Senior years are one last chance to be with friends at football games, pep rallies and in the lunch room. It’s one last year with your favorite teachers and one last dance at homecoming or prom.

Some parents are sending their kids to school for preschool or kindergarten. Just like sending a kid off to college, it’s hard to drop them off or watch them get on a school bus trodding along with their oversized backpack on their little bodies.

One important thing I learned about parenting is every level of education and at every level of life, our kids will struggle some, and that isn’t just OK, it’s a good thing. It’s called learning.

As parents we can only teach them so much. Sooner or later, they have to figure things out themselves, and they will. We have strong, committed educators in our schools who will also help guide them on a path to success.

We went through a range of emotions this past week and will continue to go through them and adjust accordingly. Sad, yet proud. Nervous, yet excited. Worried, yet grateful.

If I have any advice, it would be this: Take the time to go get a coffee with your daughter or to play a game of catch with your son (or vice versa). Shoot hoops in the driveway, get in the car to go get ice cream, go see a movie together, play cards or a family board game, do a puzzle together, find a show the entire family enjoys to watch, take a day trip to a different town. Most importantly, put the phones away and have a good conversation.

That is what we will miss most, just sitting around the kitchen table or the counter and talking about just about anything and everything.

Most of all, remember that momma birds get two to three weeks nurturing their babies before they fly away. We are fortunate to get 18 years with ours. Don’t waste a single day, because it goes by fast.

Life Hacks

By Missy Traeger

How to use common, everyday items to help with household problems.

You are less likely to get eggshells in your eggs if you crack them on a flat surface.

Letters to the editor accepted

Letters to the editor and other opinion articles are welcome. Letters must be signed with a first and last name and include an address and phone number. Letters must be under 350 words and be submitted by Monday at 5 p.m. Political letters endorsing or opposing a candidate, ballot measure or political party are subject to charges. Star Publications will charge a flat fee of $25 for 350-word or less letters. Display advertising rates will apply to letters exceeding the word limit. Payment must be received prior to copy deadline. They can be emailed to office@saukherald.com, mailed to Sauk Centre Herald, 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave., Sauk Centre, MN 56378 or dropped off at the office. email to office@saukherald.com

Carol Moorman ..................Co-Editor ................................................carol.m@star-pub.com

Herman Lensing.................Reporter...................................herman@melrosebeacon.com

Evan Michealson ................Reporter..................................................evan.m@star-pub.com

Jaime Ostendorf ................Marketing...................................................jaime@star-pub.com

Neil Maidl .............................Marketing..................................................neil.m@star-pub.com

Robin Brunette ...................Inside Sales Representative ............robin@saukherald.com

Amy McChesney ................Bookkeeping.................................amy.m@star-pub.com.com

Gretchen Jennissen ..........Bookkeeping........................................office@saukherald.com

Lorie Swedenburg .............Receptionist/Circulation ....................lorie@saukherald.com

Logan Thomas ....................Sign Design ..........................................logan@saukherald.com

Jill Borgerding.....................Office assistant ............................................jill.b@star-pub.com

How nice to meet you

Staff Mark Klaphake ....................General Manager.................................mark@saukherald.com

Anna Mae C. Schneider

Anna Mae C. Schneider, 90 of Meire Grove, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family Aug. 15, 2023, at Mother of Mercy Nursing Home in Albany.

A Mass of Christian Burial was Aug. 21 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove with the Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.

Anna Mae C. Arceneau was born Nov. 19, 1932, in St. Martin, Minnesota, to John and Theresa (Blonigen)

Donald E. Wiegers

Donald E. “Don” Wiegers, 81, of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully and surrounded by his family Aug. 17, 2023, at the CentraCare Hospital in Sauk Centre.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m., Friday, Aug. 25, at First Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre with the Rev. Rebecca Thomas officiating. Military honors will be by the Sauk Centre United Veterans Honor Guard. Visitation will be held 1011 a.m. Friday at the church. Donald Eugene Wiegers was born Sept. 6, 1941, in Sauk Centre, to Albert and Alvia (Halverson) Wiegers.

Sr. Mary Peter Marthaler, O.S.C.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m., Monday, Aug. 28, at St. Clare’s Monastery in Sauk Rapids for Sr. Mary Peter Marthaler, O.S.C., 98, who passed away Aug. 21, 2023, at St. Clare’s Monastery. The Rev. Matthew Crane will officiate, and entombment will be in the St. Clare’s Monastery Crypt. Visitation will be 1-6 p.m. Sunday and after 8:30 a.m. Monday at St. Clare’s Monastery in Sauk

Joseph Michael Metcalf, Jr., of West Palm Beach, Florida, passed away after a brief battle with cancer June 23, 2023.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 1, at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with the Rev. Mark Botzet officiating. Visitation will be at the church one hour before the Mass H-34-1P

Anna Mae C. Schneider

Arceneau. She was united in marriage to Leo Schneider Oct. 25, 1955, at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin. They farmed five miles west

of Meire Grove for 22 years until their retirement. The couple then moved into Meire Grove.

Anna Mae was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove, Christian Women, St. Mary’s Society and the Poor Souls Society. She enjoyed gardening, watching television and reading. Survivors include her sons, Rick (Carol) Schneider of Sauk Centre and Ken (Linda) Schneider of Sauk Centre; grandchildren Brian (Nicole), Sara (Dan), Scott (Tracy) and Kayla; great-grandchildren

Nathan, Brooke, Parker and Lydia; and sisters-in-law Joan Arceneau, Lucille Arceneau, Lorraine Inderrieden and Arlene Gully.

Anna Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Leo Schneider; parents; brothers Alois, Norbert, Edwin, Bernard, Elmer and Clarence; and sisters Margaret Hellmann, Hildegard Lemke, Jenny Blommel, Dorothy Wenker, Betty Herzog and Della Feldewerd.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose. PH-34-1B

Donald E. Wiegers

He attended Sauk Centre High School and served in the U.S. Army where he was honorably discharged in July 1963. He was united in marriage to Judy Quistorff April 29, 1967,

at First Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre. Don worked for Hanson Silo Company and Emblom Powerline Construction in Sauk Centre until his retirement. He was a member of First Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre. Don enjoyed playing cards, fishing and hanging out with his grandkids. Survivors include his loving wife of 56 years, Judy Wiegers of Sauk Centre; children Todd Wiegers of Sauk Centre, Tammy (Kim) Tran of White Bear Lake and Tracy (Nick) Baumann of Kilkenny; six grandchildren Kody, Kailee, Konnor, Sean,

Home in Sauk Rapids.

Joey and Michael; brothers and sisters Dave (Barb) Wiegers of Monticello, Albert (Arlene) Wiegers of Lake Lillian, Sharon Wiegers of Long Prairie, Linda Guse of Long Prairie, Tommy (Theresa) Wiegers of Long Prairie and Karen (Thomas) Helcl of Ottertail.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and infant sister Patricia Wiegers.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Sauk Centre. H-34-1B

Sr. Mary Peter Marthaler, O.S.C. Rapids. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral

Sr. Mary Peter Marthaler, O.S.C., was born March 2, 1925, in West Union, to Albert and Antoninette (Deters) Marthaler. She made her first vows May 4, 1949, and her final vows May 13, 1952. She served her community as abbess for 18 years. Survivors include her St. Clare’s Monastery Community of Sauk Rapids; sisters Joan (Charles) Pfannenstein of St. Louis Park and Imelda McCann

of Sartell; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Sr. Andre Marthaler, O.S.B., Anella Hougnon and Sr. Germana Marthaler, O.S.B.; brothers Albert, Lawrence, Paul, Anthony and Rev. Andrew “Sonny” Marthaler; and in-laws Edna, Irene, Lorraine and Bernice Marthaler, John “Jack” Hougnon and Jack McCann. HR-34-1B

Thank you

The family of Helen Miller offers their sincere gratitude to the doctors and nurses of CentraCare Hospital and Clinic in Sauk Centre for the understanding and patience they exhibited as they provided care for our dear mother. The family also deeply appreciates the staff and volunteers at St. Paul’s Church who helped us plan and implement Helen’s service, provided beautiful music and served a wonderful lunch. A special thanks to the friends and neighbors at Daybreak Place; their support is humbling.

We were honored by the attendance of so many of Helen’s family and friends at the service. We loved our mother dearly and it was overwhelming to see how much others loved her, as well.

Joseph M. Metcalf, Jr.

Thank you all so much for your prayers, thoughts and gifts. Therese, Ann, Christopher, Dean, Chad, Monte and Mitch H-34-1B

Thank you

I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the family and friends that attended, sent cards and wishes for my 85th birthday. Also, to my kids and their families that hosted it, a big thanks for all you did. I love you kids, even if you did overrule me.

Thanks again everyone, and God bless you all.

Gloria Stone

H-34-1P

Joseph M. Metcalf, Jr.

Sheriff of said county as

Notice of Public Hearing Stearns County, Board of Commissioners

Notice is hereby given that the Stearns County Board of Commissioners, in and for the County of Stearns, will conduct a public hearing as follows:

To consider a rezoning request submitted by Kathleen Oschwald, Sauk Centre MN according to Section 4.10 of Stearns County Land Use and Zoning Ordinance #439 to rezone approximately 5.7 acres from the Residential 1 (R-1) zoning district to the Agricultural 80 (A-80) zoning district. The property is in part of the NE1/4 of the NW1/4, lying northwest of State Highway 28 and east of Brickyard Road, in Section 2, Sauk Centre Township (126/34). The property address is 39198 State Hwy 28, Sauk Centre MN.

When and where is the meeting?

Date and Time: September 12, 2023 shortly thereafter 9:00 a.m.

Location: Stearns County Administration Center, Board Room A 705 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, MN 56303

How do I participate?

Public Testimony: If you would like to provide public testimony, you may do so by appearing at the above hearing, by telephone or other electronic means, please contact Jennifer Buckentine at Jennifer.Buckentine@stearnscountymn.gov by calling (320) 656-3613.

Written Testimony: You may submit written testimony by emailing Jennifer.Buckentine@stearnscountymn.gov by 3

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that default has occurred in the conditions of the following described mortgage:

Enforcement Center, 807 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, Minnesota to pay the debt secured by said mortgage and taxes, if any, on said premises and the costs and disbursements, including attorney fees allowed by law, subject to redemption within six (6) months from the date of said sale by the mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns. If the Mortgage is not reinstated under Minn. Stat. §580.30 or the property is not redeemed under Minn. Stat. §580.23, the Mortgagor must vacate the property on or before 11:59 p.m. on March 26, 2024, or the next business day if March 26, 2024 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday. Mortgagor(s) released from financial obligation: NONE THIS COMMUNICATION IS FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS

NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION. THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.

DATED: August 2, 2023

MORTGAGEE: Guild Mortgage Company LLC Wilford, Geske & Cook, P.A. Attorneys for Mortgagee 7616 Currell Boulevard, Suite 200 Woodbury, MN 55125 (651) 209-3300 File Number: 053216-F1 H-32-6B

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333

ASSUMED NAME: BeeYou Wax & Skin

PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS IS: 508 MAIN ST S

STE S, SAUK CENTRE, MN 56378 United States.

NAMEHOLDER(S): BeeYou LLC, 22710 110TH ST, SAUK CENTRE, MN 56378 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/ Samantha Eagan 08/17/2023

H-34-2P

Recorded: May 2, 2018, Stearns County Recorder Document Number: A1519484

ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: And assigned to: PennyMac Loan Services, LLC

Dated: October 20, 2022

Recorded: October 20, 2022, Stearns County Recorder

Document Number: A1642976

Transaction Agent: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc.

Transaction Agent Mortgage Identification Number: 1003502-9101025414-1

Date: August 18, 2023

YOU ARE NOTIFIED THAT:

1. Default has occurred in the conditions of the Mortgage dated July 6, 2020, executed by Mark F. Heinen and Caitlyn Heinen, husband and wife, as Mortgagors, to Liberty Bank Minnesota, as Mortgagee, and filed for record July 13, 2020, as Document No. A1574138, in the Office of the County Recorder of Stearns County, Minnesota. The land described in the Mortgage is not registered land.

2. The Mortgage has not been assigned.

3. The original principal amount secured by the Mortgage was $97,500.00.

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

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

p.m. on September 5, 2023. Written testimony may also be mailed to the Stearns County Environmental Services Department, Service Center, 3301 County Road 138, Waite Park, MN 56387.

Comments on this public hearing are not limited to those persons receiving copies of this notice. If you know of any interested person, who for any reason has not received a copy of this notice, it would be appreciated if you would inform them of this public hearing.

Where can I view the application?

A copy of the application can be viewed the Friday prior to the meeting at http://stearnscountymn.iqm2.com/Citizens/Default.aspx. Action taken on this request will be available shortly after the meeting at the same website location. What if the meeting changes?

This meeting is subject to change. Please sign up for automatic updates for this meeting at http://stearnscountymn.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx. Call the Department for assistance. Stearns County Board of Commissioners

Barrier Free Status: This meeting will be accessible to the handicapped. Attempts will be made to accommodate any other individual need for special services. Please call (320) 656-3613 early so arrangements can be made.

Publish: August 24, 2023 – Sauk Centre Herald

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Lender/Broker/Mortgage

Originator: Mortgage Research Center, LLC dba Veterans United Home Loans Residential Mortgage

recover the debt secured by said mortgage, or any part thereof; that this is registered property; PURSUANT to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above-described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows:

DATE AND TIME OF SALE: October 03, 2023, at 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: County

Sheriff`s office, Law Enforcement Center, 807 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, Minnesota to pay the debt secured by said mortgage and taxes, if any, on said premises and the costs and disbursements, including attorney fees allowed by law, subject to redemption within six (6) months from the date of said sale by the mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns. If the Mortgage is not reinstated under Minn. Stat. §580.30 or the property is not redeemed under Minn. Stat. §580.23, the Mortgagor must vacate the property on or before 11:59 p.m. on April 3, 2024, or the next business day if April 3, 2024, falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday. Mortgagor(s) released from financial obligation: NONE THIS COMMUNICATION IS FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

applicable statutes.

6. At the date of this Notice the amount due on the Mortgage, and taxes, if any, paid by the holder of the Mortgage is $82,998.66.

7. Pursuant to the power of sale in the Mortgage, the Mortgage will be foreclosed, and the land located in Stearns County, Minnesota, described as follows:

Lot Nine (9) and the South One-Half (South 1/2) of Lot Ten (10), Block Four (4) in the Townsite of Sartell, Stearns County, Minnesota will be sold by the County Sheriff of Stearns County, Minnesota, at public auction on October 12, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., at the Stearns County Sheriff’s Department, located at 807 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, Minnesota.

8. To the best of Mortgagee’s information, the property being foreclosed has a property address of 400 1st Avenue N, Sartell, Minnesota 56377, and has tax parcel identification number 92.57141.0000.

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

10. The property must be vacated by 11:59 p.m. on April 12, 2024, provided the Mortgagors have not reinstated the Mortgage under Minnesota Statutes, Section 580.30 or redeemed the property under Minnesota Statutes, Section 580.23. If the foregoing date is a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, then the date to vacate is the next business day at 11:59 p.m.

11. THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGORS, THE MORTGAGORS’ PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED

H-34-1B

WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION. THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.

DATED: August 10, 2023

MORTGAGEE: PennyMac Loan Services, LLC Wilford, Geske & Cook, P.A. Attorneys for Mortgagee 7616 Currell Boulevard, Suite 200 Woodbury, MN 55125 (651) 209-3300 File Number: 052143-F1 H-33-6B

MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE

City of Sauk Centre Notice of Public Hearing

Variance Request

Notice is hereby given that the Sauk Centre Planning Commission acting as the Board of Adjustment will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, September, 12, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter as practical, in the Council Chambers of City Hall, to consider a variance, on behalf of Guillermo M. Sarmiento dba Ding Dong Café.

Property Location: 526 Elm Street South, Sauk Centre, Minnesota 56378

94.58795.0000

Parcel Identification Number

Legal Description: All that part of Lots Five (5) and Six (6), Block Five (5), Robbins & Mendenhall’s Addition to the City of Sauk Centre, and that portion of the vacated 6th Street South that lies between two lines drawn parallel with and distant forty (40) feet and one hundred (100) feet northeasterly of, as measured at a right angle from the main track center line as described below and westerly of the southerly extension of the East line of said Block Five (5), according to the plat thereof on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder for Stearns County, Minnesota.

A variance is sought for relief from the dimensional standard of the required 30 foot setback from the East or front (Right of Way) property line and the required 30 foot setback from the North or interior property line of a Residential Commercial (RC) zoned lot. The applicant is seeking a 30.00 foot variance from the East property line and a 27.30 foot variance from the North property line. If granted, the variance would allow an expansion of the existing café to be constructed with the same setbacks as the existing structure. The current setbacks of the structure consist of a zero (0) foot setback from the East property line and a 2.70 foot setback from the North property line.

Any persons having an interest in this matter will have the opportunity to be heard. Written comments will be accepted until the time of hearing. Materials related to this request can be reviewed within the Planning & Zoning Office of City Hall. /s/ Sarah Morton, City Planner/Zoning Administrator

Published in the Sauk Centre Herald on Thursday, August 24, 2023.

H-34-1B

Donations for doughnuts

Streeters volleyball hopes to build belief through bonding Sauk Centre maintains depth as expectations remain high

setters Sara Kittelson and April Klaphake all have emerged as playmakers for what will surely be an energetic, high-ceiling team.

BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER

With eyes on furthering their community outreach, members of Sauk Centre’s swim and dive programs traded out swim caps for aprons Aug. 22, making and serving doughnuts at The Beck Bakery in downtown Sauk Centre to raise money for the activities.

“We’re always lucky to have such supportive parents, we’re always lucky to have people who help push our culture forward in the pool and do positive things for us,” said James Schreiner, co-head coach of the Fusion boys swim and dive team and head coach of the Sauk Centre girls swim and dive team.

“Well, I think we need to share that with the community more often and show them who we are.”

Student-athletes representing the Melrose-Sauk Centre Fusion boys swim and dive team ventured into the area business before a special noon opening time to prepare doughnuts for the community, learning how to make doughnut twists and Long Johns.

When the bakery opened to begin the fundraiser, volunteers from the Sauk Centre girls swim and dive team were there to add frosting and sprinkles to the cooked creations and take orders, along with providing lemonade to passersby during the scorching summer day.

“I think it’s a great opportunity and lets them get out there and be the face of the program,” Schreiner said.

Swimming Fundraiser page 13

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

With a program as recently-successful as the Sauk Centre Streeters volleyball team, expectations entering any season hover somewhere around qualifying for the state tournament.

This sentiment remains true for the 2023 fall season, as the Streeters embark on their fall schedule ready to compete for the top spot in the West Central Conference and Section 6AA.

“The expectations, they’re high,” said Jim Klaphake, head coach. “I think that’s not much different than any other year, that you have high expectations, and guess what? I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

Optimism around the

team remains high despite a disappointing section semifinals loss to Cathedral, a crushing blow to a program coming off their first state championship. For one thing, Sauk Centre retains much of the roster that got them to the section’s final four, including multi-year starters in outside hitter Cierra Kortan and middle hitter Tory Jennissen.

“You’ve got to remember, Cierra and Tory have been a part of a team that was 54-4 or something like that over the last two years,” Coach Klaphake said. “They’re going to bring that playing-time experience, that leadership on the court.”

The Streeters also continue to build up talent, as contributors like hitter Maddy Schuster, defensive specialist Raya Sebek and

“Not only are we tall, but we’re very athletic,” Coach Klaphake said. “We’re quick, we’re athletic and we don’t let the ball fall on the floor on our side.”

Even with natural ability, hustle and a nonstop motor will be critical components to Sauk Centre returning to state again. With proven performers leading a strong offensive charge, the focus now turns to the defensive end to ensure the squad is well-rounded.

“I always say offense is for show; defense is going to win you championships,” Coach Klaphake said. “There’s a little bit of individualism when it comes to offense, because it’s who got the kill and who got the assist. On defense, you do that together. You have six girls working together.”

This process of de-

veloping cohesion and fine-tuning rotations will not be something that can be solved after a few practices. The Streeters have many unproven players at the senior level, with upperclassman competitors like Emily Peters, Brooke Rieland, Nevaeh Hartmann and Mackenzie Ritter all likely to see substantial court time in 2023. Finding a groove is something Coach Klaphake and the Streeters hope comes at the end of the schedule rather than in the first month of the season.

However, if the Streeters can build connections and work together, anything is possible.

“As much as I can talk about athleticism and how tall we are, a lot of it comes down to chemistry,” Coach Klaphake said. “It’s how well the kids play together, not only on the court, but off the court.”

Sauk Centre resident Carlson leads Huskies to conference title

By any measurable standard, John Carlson has had a memorable year.

The former collegiate golf player and now-Sauk Centre resident helped redefine the standards of the sport at Northern Illinois University as the college’s men’s golf coach, guiding the Huskies to their first Mid-American Conference title in 38 years this past spring.

Months later, the final hole and ensuing celebration still stands out in Carlson’s mind. Senior Tommy Dunsire drilled a 50-foot birdie on hole No. 18, clinching a fourstroke win for the historic team championship win at the conference championship May 2.

“I’ll always remember that scene, just exhilaration,” said Carlson, who is a GreyStone Golf Club member.

“It wasn’t surprise, it wasn’t relief. It was just that we had accomplished a goal we had set out to get done at the beginning of the year.”

The Huskies finished third in the MAC in 2022, but Carlson and the roster still possessed confidence and a belief the long-elusive title could arrive. After all, NIU’s golfers carved out a reputation for performing well in the clutch; they compiled a school-record 13-under par score of 275 at the NCAA Men’s Golf Regional May 15, and the Huskies’ 36-hole total of 553 was a new program best.

of the Year. However, accomplishments stemmed from much more than golf prowess, as Dunsire, Sluzas, Zach Place and Campbell Wolf were designated as All-America Scholars by the Golf Coaches Association of America.

BY EVAN MICHEALSON Michealson’s Minutes

“The time management piece, coming to school to be a student-athlete and really surpassing all expectations both on the golf course and in the classroom, it’s a proud moment as a coach,” Carlson said.

years of coaching,” Carlson said.

Other tidbits include:

The Sauk Centre Sports Boosters organization held their annual golf tournament Aug. 12 at Lynx National Golf Course in Sauk Centre.

The fundraising event saw tons of golf memories formed and money raised for the boosters, with the team of Eric Moritz, Joey Dreier, Nick Adams and Tyler Halvorson winning the tournament.

The Sauk Centre girls basketball team wrapped up a summer chalk-full of improvement.

we get better as a team in the winter.”

The Sauk Centre boys basketball team also displayed success during the summer, capturing a 5-0 record at a North Dakota State University basketball camp, logging a win against Lake Crystal-Wellcome Memorial at a state tournament and going 2-1 and falling in the championship bout of two Breakdown tournaments.

“You could tell they were out there playing for each other as a team,” Carlson said.

“They’re going through their routine, they’re consistent daily. That’s when you know you have a championship team.”

NIU received notable acclaim for their improbable run during the spring. Dunsire and Ben Sluzas were named to the First Team All-MAC and Carlson was selected as the Kermit Blosser MAC Coach

With the Huskies carrying hardware in tow following an incredible campaign, Carlson prepares for the next stage of success for NIU while also building more and more connections within Sauk Centre, his home. But before the next season begins, he gave one final reflection to a rare feat that has no guarantee of happening again.

“To be able to walk up the final freeway with Tommy, knowing we won the championship, that was one of my special moments in my 14

The Streeters participated in one Breakdown tournament in Morris July 14, an up-and-down bracket battle that saw Sauk Centre defeat Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg before falling to Marshall and Hancock.

The team also registered team camp appearances in Moorhead and Duluth, while the JV program took part in four tournaments, bettering each and every player through experience.

“I saw a lot of girls get better,” said Scott Bergman, head coach. “We focus more on improvement in the summer. One of the mottos is you get better in the summer so

“I thought for the most part it stemmed from every time we played, we had our full squad, which isn’t how it always goes,” said Kevin Kuefler, head coach. “That was a benefit. Every time we played, we built chemistry.”

While the aforementioned championship losses – one to Sauk Rapids-Rice in overtime and another to Fergus Falls –stung, the Streeters did pick up signature wins against solid programs like Little Falls and Annandale. Sauk Centre’s group of playmakers also won the St. Cloud State Men’s Basketball Summer League, a fun bonus to a competitive period showing all sorts of positive signs.

“If we’re healthy, we’ll have size and depth, which is something we’ve wanted,” Kuefler said.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Eric Moritz (from left), Joey Dreier, Nick Adams and Tyler Halvorson are all smiles after the Sports Boosters Golf Tournament Aug. 12 at Lynx National Golf Course in Sauk Centre. The group won the outing, which is held annually to support the Sauk Centre boosters and athletics.

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

The Sauk Centre Streeters volleyball senior class consists of Raya Sebek (from left), April Klaphake, Nevaeh Hartmann, Isie Kolbo, Brooke Rieland, Emily Peters and Mackenzie Ritter. The Streeters maintain high expectations after a section semifinals loss in 2022 and will rely on chemistry and defense to lead the way.

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Tori Marthaler spreads frosting over a doughnut Aug. 22 at The Beck Bakery in Sauk Centre. Marthaler and her fellow Sauk Centre girls swim and dive volunteers raised money for the program by selling doughnuts to the public out of the bakery.

Streeters put forth strong effort in opening week

Sauk

Centre girls tennis defeats St. John’s Prep

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

The Sauk Centre Streeters girls tennis team found themselves in a closely-contested Monday afternoon home showdown against Parkers Prairie Aug. 21.

Two singles matches went a full three sets, and each team displayed impressive depth across their entire lineup.

Ultimately, it was Parkers Prairie who pulled ahead, defeating the Streeters 4-3 at Sauk Centre High School in Sauk Centre. It was the first defeat of the season for Sauk Centre, but an encouraging performance nonetheless against a Panthers squad that won the area matchup 6-1 a year ago.

“I was extremely proud of the way my team competed,” said Kristen Determan, head coach. “One of our singles players was out due to an illness, so two of our younger players had to step up into new roles. We did so much better this

year against Parkers Prairie than we did last year.”

Samantha Gregory moved up a singles spot from her previous showing and put forth a gutsy performance. The ninth grader, positioned at No. 3 singles, lost 4-6 in set one but came back to win the second set 6-4, setting up what became a back-and-forth set to remember. Gregory never ceded grounded to her opponent and demonstrated incredible resolve, winning 18-16 to notch a point for Sauk Centre.

“Samantha did a fabulous job of staying composed during her set,” Determan said. “It is easy to lose the first set and give up, but Samantha didn’t. I gave her a few pointers here and there, but it was Samantha’s consistency that helped her win that match.”

The Streeters also received wins from doubles combinations on opposite sides of the experience spectrum. Varsity veterans

Lydia Peterson and Ellen Rick stormed to an impressive 6-1, 6-2 victory at second doubles, while newcomers Ava Friedrichs and Avery Rieland flexed natural cohesion in earning their second-consecutive triumph to begin the campaign.

“It’s exciting for me to watch new players learn and grow their tennis skills,” Determan said.

“During the past week, I have seen so much growth from these two. They both bring many years of sports competition and knowledge to the court.”

Even in losses, Sauk Centre battled. Senior Addy Hoffman narrowly dropped her No. 1 singles bout in three sets, while singles performers Michelle Straub and Abigail Anderson-Nyhus and the first doubles pairing of Emma Klaphake and Amber Groetsch each won games in their respective court outings.

The Streeters will host a triangular against Park Rapids and Yellow Medicine East at 9 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 24, at Sauk Centre High School in Sauk Centre.

“We are planning to mix things up a little between the two matches to try a few different doubles pairings,” Determan said.

“Park Rapids was tough last year, so I hope we can pull out a few wins this time. I’m really hoping for a win against YME again this year.”

Singles

by the Streeters throughout the first week of the season yielded immediate results, as Sauk Centre attacked the net time and time again in a 6-1 win over St. John’s Prep Aug. 18 at Sauk Centre High School in Sauk Centre.

“Considering that we only had four days of practice before our first match, the girls played awesome,” Determan said. “It was windy that day, which helped our girls, because we had been playing with the wind the days leading up to the match.”

Friedrichs and Rieland picked up a 6-0, 6-1 third doubles win in their varsity debut as Sauk Centre swept the doubles competition.

Hoffman and Abbie Masog each earned a 6-0 set win in grabbing singles victories for the Streeters.

This position will be in the Elementary School and may also involve work in the other areas of the school as needed. Primary duties will be the cleaning of Elementary classrooms, bathrooms, gyms, along with other areas. Other duties will include setting up for, and cleaning up after, sporting events and other school activities. Light duty maintenance will also be required. This position involves working day and evening shifts on alternate weeks during the school year and mostly day shifts during the summer. This position involves both indoor and outdoor work. This is a full-time position that qualifies for shift differential pay as well as health insurance and retirement benefits. The selected applicant must have a valid driver’s license. A minimum of a high school diploma is required with additional education and/or certifications preferred.

Sauk Centre Public Schools is seeking Substitute Paraprofessionals & Substitute Teachers

Sub Paraprofessional - $15.24 per hour

Sub Teacher - $140 per day

If interested, please contact our Payroll & Benefits Specialist, Amy Thieschafer at: amy.thieschafer@isd743.org or 320-352-2258 ext. 4003

PHOTOS BY EVAN MICHEALSON Emma Klaphake extends to keep a volley alive Aug. 21 at Sauk Centre High School in Sauk Centre. Klaphake and Amber Groetsch competed at the No. 1 doubles position for the Streeters.

Lydia Peterson (right) laughs with excitement and greets doubles partner Ellen Rick after winning a game Aug. 21 at Sauk Centre High School in Sauk Centre. Peterson and Rick are 2-0 at second doubles after the first week of competition.

Amber Groetsch fires a return during a match against Parkers Prairie Aug. 21 at Sauk Centre High School in Sauk Centre. Groetsch and the Streeters lost 4-3 to the Panthers after falling 6-1 to them in 2022.

Abigail Anderson-Nyhus concentrates on the ball Aug. 21 at Sauk Centre High School in Sauk Centre. Anderson-Nyhus stepped in as a No. 4 singles competitor in Sauk Centre’s 4-3 loss to Parkers Prairie.

: 1. Hoffman lost 2-6, 7-6, 7-10, 2. Straub lost 0-6, 2-6, 3. Gregory won 4-6, 6-4, 18-16 and 4. Anderson-Nyhus lost 2-6, 1-6. Doubles: 1. Klaphake-Groetsch lost 2-6, 4-6, 2. Peterson-Rick won 6-1, 6-2 and 3. Friedrichs-Rieland won 6-0, 6-1. Sauk Centre 6, St. John’s Prep 1 Early energy exuded

Singles: 1. Hoffman won 6-0, 6-4, 2. Straub lost 3-6, 4-6, 3. Masog won 6-3, 6-0 and 4. Gregory won 6-1, 6-3. Doubles: 1. Klaphake-Groetsch won 6-0, 6-1, 2. Peterson-Rick won 6-1, 6-2 and 3. Friedrichs-Rieland won 6-0, 6-1.

r Streeter

Filling a roster out with fervor

Sauk Centre girls swim and dive seeks all-around contributions

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

Lynx National Golf Club

Monday Men’s Scramble League

August 21

Playoffs

Barten, Kern, Nathe def. Bussmann, Atkinson, Rothstein Stueve, Engle, Lawinger bye

Championship match August 28

10 YEARS AGO

In their home quadrangular on Monday, the Mainstreeters girls tennis team picked up three convincing wins, including a 5-2 win over conference rival Benson/Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg. They only suffered a narrow 4-3 loss against Maccray/RCW.

20 YEARS AGO

Anna Schumacher, Sauk Centre’s No. 1 girls singles player, took two out of three tennis matches during an Aug. 18 home match, beating Jenna Benkinger from Parker’s Prairie and Bridget Wynn from Wadena/Deer Creek before losing to Jamie Weber from Benson.

30 YEARS AGO

Don John, Cory Super and Bob Hintzen led the three main categories of play during the Aug. 8 tournament day at the golf course. John won the big prize of the day, capturing the overall crown based on the 53 players and their handicaps; he shot a true 84 to go with his United States Golf Association handicap of 17.2 for a net 66.8.

Ahead of what should be an intense fall season, the Sauk Centre Streeters girls swim and dive team is preparing both inside the water and out.

With times and splits often coming down to the details, the Streeters are devoted to being physically ready for any race, strengthening their legs through vigorous exercises before competitions arrive.

“Everyone thinks in swimming you want to have a strong upper body, and certainly that helps, but your fastest swimmers are almost always your fastest kickers,” said James Schreiner, head coach. “We do a lot of leg work. Abby Primus, my assistant coach, does a lot of work with them, doing a lot of dryland stuff, a lot of jumps, a lot of explosive speed.”

This element of effort is the driving force behind a Sauk Centre squad ready to turn athleticism and promise into an exciting campaign. The Streeters return much of the roster that sent six student-athletes to the Class A Minnesota State High School League Girls Swim

and Dive Meet and finished fourth in Section 6A, creating a sense of anticipation toward the upcoming meet schedule.

“It’s different than the summer swimming we do,” Schreiner said.

“We do a seven-week camp where they’re swimming four days a week, but you can tell. It might not be urgency, but there is definitely more of a purpose. There’s a lot of good energy.”

All-State swimmer Stella Schirmers bolsters butterflier and backstroker groups that should create matchup nightmares for opponents. State qualifier Addison Bick and veteran Violet Anderson add depth to the 100-yard butterfly event, while the versatile Olivia Marsh can utilize multiple strokes to add solid times to the mix.

Sauk Centre also boasts a formidable freestyle lineup. Maizie Jennissen and Carmen Loxtercamp qualified for state as members of the 400 freestyle relay and can slot into several freestyle events, while Pyper Vogt has produced excellent results for the Streeters in previous seasons in distance competitions.

“We’ve got talent coming back, but I’m also excited to see some of these eighth graders and ninth grad-

ers make some big steps up too,” Schreiner said.

Such young talent includes Katie Gregory, Abigail Eiden, Aubree Randall and section swimmer Makenna Barthel, along with ever-improving diver Nora Thompson.

Thompson is joined in the diving corps by seniors Tori Marthaler and Serena Middendorf, who are making their debuts as swim and dive athletes in their final high school seasons and have brought valuable leadership to that event.

“They’re great leaders,” Schreiner said. “We’ve seen it already in the first six, seven days of practice here. They’ve done an awesome job of taking the reins and picking up that routine, bringing in that leadership role to help the younger girls.”

Replacing longtime freestyle specialist Megan Heveron and situating swimmers into the right races for them will be a challenge. But, for Schreiner and his talented Streeters, that solving of the swim and dive puzzle is part of what makes the season so fun.

“I’m just really excited,” Schreiner said. “This is a good group, and we’re excited to work with them.”

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PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

The Sauk Centre girls swim and dive senior class consists of Violet Anderson (from left), Serena Middendorf, Jorja Novak, Tori Marthaler, Stella Schirmers and Carmen Loxtercamp. The Streeters expect contributions from swimmers and divers of various experience levels during the fall season.