Klasen page 8
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Number 42 • Volume 134
Albany council will consider city administrator job offer
Meet your
Melrose School Board Melrose researching policing options ... pg. 3 Hiltner happy to carry on legacy ... pg. 7 ‘A Team’ has first baby boy in 2017 ... pg. 16 Gymnasts scoring with the best ... pg. 10
ATKINSON TO TALK ABOUT SPACE MISSIONS BOOK AT MELROSE LIBRARY
candidates pg. 6
Hiring committee recommends internal candidate Winkels BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER
Albany city leaders are scheduled to consider a conditional city administrator job offer to Gary Winkels, current fire chief and public COMMUNITY COVERAGE 127 YEARS works assistant, during their Oct. 18 council meeting. The published agenda PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN for the Wednesday evening Melrose School Board candidates Keith Fischer (from left), Alan Schulzetenberg, Eric Seanger and Allen Wieling prepare to answer questions during meeting included two items the Oct. 12 Meet the Candidates Night at the Melrose City Center in Melrose. The event was sponsored by the Melrose Area Women of Today before presented by mayor Tom the Nov. 7 special election. Kasner. One item was consideration of the recommendation from the hiring committee and the other was authorizing interim city administrator Tom Schneider to negoti546 Fifth Ave. NE, Melrose; or by you lived in the school district? Schulzetenberg, Eric Seanger BY CAROL MOORMAN ate compensation terms with downloading and completing an 3. Why would you like to serve STAFF WRITER and Allen Wieling will be on the Winkels. Tuesday, Nov. 7, special election absentee ballot application, which on the Melrose School Board? 4. Kasner, councilor Keith can be accessed on the school’s What do you see as the biggest ballot. Four Melrose Area School Heitzman, police chief website isd740.org, and returning challenge the Melrose School District residents can vote District residents are running to Ozzie Carbajal, city attorney it to Stearns County Elections by District is facing and how would fill one open position on the Mel- in-person from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Susan andstarting Schnei- to rise Monday, email, mail or fax. you solve it? 5. What do you Tuesday, Nov. 7, at the Melrose rose School Board, vacated by As the Dege, sun was Commercial der served on a five-person The Star Post sent each think is a real plus for the district? City Center, 225 First St., NE, first Melrose term school board Contractors Company workers from were in- member candidate interview commitMelrose; by absentee ballot from candidate the following questions Klassen, who moved out side the Lisa’s On Main buildingBecky working on securing teewest that completed its work 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., through Nov. to answer: 1. Your name, family, the school district. The names the wall. PHOTO BYofCAROL MOORMAN Election page 3 earlier this month. of candidates Keith Fischer, Alan 6 at Melrose Area Public Schools, where you live. 2. How long have
400 Block update
Special election Nov. 7 fills open seat
Council page 3
Special
blessing
Input is key as Melrose looks to the future Public workshop Oct. 26 for new comprehensive plan BY CAROL MOORMAN | STAFF WRITER
PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN
Animal blessing page 4
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Deacon David Allen (right) blesses a dog on a leash held by Tonia Scharmer (from left), while Brynn Kaiser, Leah Lauer and Parker Schneider (sitting) watch during the Oct. 6 animal blessing outside Holy Family School in Albany. The blessing is held around the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.
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The city of Melrose is working on its new comprehensive plan to guide development and growth over the next 20 years. Public input is key to developing a plan that reflects the values and needs of the community. “The steering committee for the project includes a large cross-section of residents who are passionate about the future of Melrose,” said Sheila Hellermann, community development director. “Now, we want to share information and hear from even more people.” The project includes recommendations for land use, housing, business development, parks, transportation and downtown vitality. “Once it is done, this plan acts as a guide for the decisions of the council, planning and zoning commission, parks and rec board and Melrose Area Development Authority,” Hellermann said. “It doesn’t sit on the shelf.” As part of the new plan, the city is hosting a public workshop from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 26, at the Melrose City Center, 225 First St., NE, Melrose. At the workshop, people will learn more about the project, be able to ask questions of the project team and contribute their ideas and comments for the city’s future. “The comprehensive plan was last updated in 2011 and there have been significant changes to the city,” Hellermann said. “We need to look ahead based on where we want to go and the opportunities we have.” To learn more about the new comprehensive plan, find upcoming engagement opportunities and participate in the online activities, visit the plan’s website at www.MelrosePlan.org.
PUBLIC NOTICES
BIRTHS page 3
City of New Munich Notice of Public Hearing.......................... pg. 7 City of Albany Planning Commission Public Hearing .............. pg. 6 Avon Township Notice of Road Inspection .............................. pg. 7 City of Melrose Public Notice .................................................. pg. 7 Melrose Public School Notice of Special Election .................... pg. 7 Holdingford School Notice of Public Accuracy Test.................. pg. 7 Holdingford School Board Briefs............................................. pg. 7 City of Avon Advertisement for Bids ....................................... pg. 7
Ella Mary Borgerding Elsie Ann Mayers $1.50
NEWS
THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | Page 3
for days in order for cleanup, he explained. “We’ve had incidences over the Avon’s city composting site is not past couple years of folks dumping items that are prohibited at the site,” the place to dump old pallets, rocks, Pelkey said. roofing material or deer carcasses. Clearly marked signs list materiPublic Works Foreman Chuck Pelkey had that reminder posted Oct. als that are allowed: Grass clippings, leaves and light brush. 13 on a city Facebook page. Pelkey said the unwanted dumpDumping unwanted items threating doesn’t happen very often. When ens to shut the compost site down BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER
it does, it is often fall cleanup time. The city has five to seven known instances of unauthorized dumping a season, Pelkey said. Recently, he identified a deer carcass that had been dumped at the city’s compost site and had brush placed over it. “We enjoy having a nice location for our residents to bring their compostable refuse,” Pelkey said. “It is a nice perk in our small town. We encourage people to use it properly so it can remain well-maintained and useful to our residents. If you have any questions about the site, please call me at 320-470-0203.”
from the Philippines. We have one daughter, Grace, in 12th grade at Melrose Area High School. 2. I was born and raised in Melrose and have lived in the school district almost 70 years, with the exception of attending St. Cloud State University to receive my bachelor’s degree in marketing. 3. Serving on the Melrose School Board will provide the opportunity to find new ways to develop a more welcoming, safe, inclusive and comfortable learning experience for all students. Stronger anti-bullying efforts and confidential ways for students to provide input on all aspects of their learning experience should be a priority. There are many potential cultural and social issues that may have to be addressed along with facility concerns. Clearly all ideas and solutions should be considered carefully. Balancing concerns of the school and district residents is important. Ultimately, the goal is to work on ways to improve the educational experience
and results for the students who should always be our top priority. 4. There are multiple challenges facing the school district. Adequate funding in order to be on equal footing with larger districts is a concern that needs a political solution. Local economic development and support is needed in order to bring more families with children to the area in order to maintain a viable student population. The district should also work on improving its communication and connection with district residents. 5. A diverse cultural community is a big positive for the Melrose School District. The local residents are quite thoughtful and practical. Also, we are fortunate to have some very good and dedicated school staff, administrators and teachers. Eric Seanger 1. I am married to Jennifer and have three children — Britt, Grace and Jackson. We live in Melrose. 2. I have lived in Melrose since 1972, with the exception of several years
away while attending the University of Minnesota. 3. I have been involved in local government since 2002, serving as mayor, on the public utilities commission and several other associated boards. I find these positions to be interesting, challenging at times, and I enjoy being involved. 4. Based on what I see, it would have to be funding/ money. Since most school districts in the state have the same problem I do not believe there is an easy and straightforward answer. I believe the responsibility of a board member is to become as familiar as possible with the district’s revenues, expenses and alternate forms of revenue. Then, they must look at each issue individually and try to make prudent decisions. 5. The mix of several small towns and rural areas within our district brings together a wide range of ideas and opinions. This can be challenging, but I also believe it has always been a great benefit to our area. Allen Wieling 1. My wife, Joelene, and I live in Melrose, and we have four children with our youngest a senior at Melrose High School. 2. I have called Melrose home most of my life. I graduated from Melrose and love this community. 3. We have grandchildren who will be attending school in a few years, and I want to be part of helping the district navigate through money constraints and to meet the needs of the students and the needs of the community 4. One of the biggest challenges is to get the citizens of the district to see the value in the school and the fact that if we don’t have a great school, the city of Melrose and the surrounding communities will suffer. 5. The diversity is a major plus for the district. We have a chance to learn from one another and how to come together and truly become one community even with differing backgrounds.
eight years as Albany’s fire chief. Schneider said the from front hiring committee made its city administrator selection Schneider retired from on Oct 11. During its Nov. 1 city employment earlier this year after more than 35 meeting, the council is scheduled to consider final years of local government compensation terms for the service. position of city administraThe Albany city adtor-clerk-treasurer, Schneiministrator position also der said. includes the duties of city Albany city leaders are clerk and city treasurer. Schneider released the also scheduled to authorize following slate of applicant the city interim administrator to post a job notice for names to The Star Post a public works assistant to after a Sept. 20 council replace Winkels and prepare meeting — Jackie Bauer, Renee Eckerly, Angela Jacobson, Erica Mattice, Rebecca Sai, Jon Stueve, Jessica Ruprecht and WinAlbany Apartment kels. Seven of those eight interviewed. Schneider said Mattice 2 bedroom • 1 Bath withdrew as a candidate $650/month, $100 deposit. due to her finding another No Dogs. position. She did not interview. Call for Sai, Stueve, Bauer, availability, Eckerly, Jacobson, Winkels and Ruprecht were interLoreen viewed. 763-238-0616 Winkels has served
hiring information related to the position. Schneider said Winkels is scheduled to submit a letter of resignation, but will continue as public works assistant until the position is filled. Application deadline for the assistant position will be Nov. 23. The end of November staff will review and score public works assistant applications to consider potential candidates to interview the first week in December, Schneider said. Then at the Dec. 6 or Dec. 20 council meeting, the hiring commit-
tee would make a recommendation for a conditional job offer. The hiring committee would authorize Schneider to negotiate compensation terms for the new public works assistant. If accepted, the selected candidate would give his/her employer two-weeks’ notice. In January 2024, Winkels would start work as city administrator. That’s when the new public works assistant would start with the city, according to the current hiring schedule, which is subject to change.
Election from front Keith Fischer 1. My family consists of my wife, Anne, son Ethan and daughter Alexis. We live in Freeport. 2. I grew up in the district until I graduated from high school in 1996 and returned to the district in 2004 when Anne and I purchased our house in Freeport. 3. I have always been a believer that if you don’t like how things are going you can’t complain if you don’t do something to try and change it. 4. The issue our district faces is the lack of trust and transparency in our board and administration. Events have caused people to question the intent, motive and need of the failed referendum. This has divided our community. Had the board and administration addressed comments and concerns from our voters there may have been solutions. Some include the breakdown of individual project costs, clarified projections of what the project would look like, what the new operation costs would be and why some changes couldn’t have been done without a referendum. Furthermore, was the board’s decision to attempt a second vote in the same year and not addressing the issues from the first failed attempt. How would I solve this? Let’s be honest, I am one vote but I would be a new voice, with fresh eyes and a shared concern for costs and needs to get a result we can accept. 5. We are a big enough school to provide great opportunities for our youth and yet small enough to still be a close knit community where we know our neighbors and the children know all of their classmates. Alan Schulzetenberg 1. I live in Melrose with my wife, Daria, and my 93-year-old father-inlaw Juanito Cajelo, both
PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN
Meet the Candidates Night moderator Jean McDonald explains the question and answer procedure to the audience of close to 30 people Oct. 12 at the Melrose City Center in Melrose. People were encouraged to submit written questions for the candidates to answer.
Council
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Becca and Andy Borgerding, of Sauk Centre, are happy to announce the birth of their daughter, Ella Mary Borgerding, at 9:54 a.m., Oct. 5, 2023, at CentraCareMelrose Hospital in Melrose. She weighed 8 pounds, 12 ounces and measured 20 inches long. Big sister Amelia, 2, welcomed her home. Ella Mary Borgerding Grandparents are Gerald and Julie Weber, of Melrose; grandparents are Clarence and Dan and Mary Borgerding, Mary Schaefer, of Melrose. of Sauk Centre; and Dorie Schaefer, of Melrose. Great-
Elsie Ann Mayers
Kurt and Katie Mayers, of Freeport, are happy to announce the birth of their daughter, Elsie Ann Mayers, at 3:54 p.m., Oct. 11, 2023, at CentraCare-Melrose Hospital in Melrose. She weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces and measured 19.5 inches long. Grandparents are Tim and Lori Mayers, of Freeport; and Elsie Ann Mayers Ernie and Ann Kruger, of Rice. Great-grandparents are Ron Rapids; and Ernie Kruger, of and Kathy Mastey, of Sauk St. Cloud.
What’s H A P P E N I N G Sunday, Oct. 22, 5:30 p.m. — Bingo. St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 755 Kraft Dr. SE, Melrose. Monday, Oct. 23, 5:30-6:30 p.m. — Mental Health Support Group. CentraCare-Albany Clinic, 30 Railroad Ave., Albany. For information call the clinic at 320-845-2157. Monday, Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m. – Melrose School Board Meeting. Melrose High School media center, 546 Fifth Ave., NE, Melrose. Wednesday, Oct. 25, 7 p.m. — AA Meetings. Back to Basic, at Tutti Frutti Marketplace, 38914 County Road 186, Sauk Centre. For more information, call 218-240- 1076. Big Book, Melrose City Center, 225 First St., NE, Melrose. For more information, call 320-241-3909. Thursday, Oct. 26, 12:30-6:30 p.m. — Red Cross Blood Drive. Avon Community Church, 204 Avon Ave. N., Avon. Sign up for appointments at redcrossblood.org or call 320-248-3375. Thursday, Oct. 26, 7 p.m. — Bingo. Holdingford American Legion, 560 Main St., Holdingford. Upcoming: Tuesday, Nov. 7, 7 p.m. — Schanhaar-Otte Post 7050 and Auxiliary meetings. Melrose American Legion clubroom, 265 County Road 173, Melrose. Tuesday, Nov. 14, 7 p.m. – Melrose American Legion Post 101 and Auxiliary meetings. Melrose American Legion clubroom, 265 County Road 173, Melrose. Our Lady of the Angels
Chow Mein Dinner Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023 • 4-7:30 pm
Dine in or Take outs
$
Adults
12
Children Ages 4-9 • $6
Proceeds of the Children-sized meals are not available for take outs. Chow Mein Dinner Please use the east entrance for all take out orders. help subsidize Holy Family School. Cash raffle prizes totaling more than $4,800 Please call the parish office for Raffle tickets or questions 352-2196 Our Lady of the Angels Church, 211 7th Street, Sauk Centre, MN
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Page 4 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | THE STAR POST
CRIME & P U B L I C S A F E T Y Watkins woman injured in I-94 incident
OAK TOWNSHIP — A Watkins woman received non-life threatening injuries during an Oct. 11 incident on Interstate 94 in Oak Township. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, just after 8 p.m., Makayala Jean Preusser, 18, was driving a 2014 Ford Fusion west on I-94 when it went off of the road. She was transported by Melrose ambulance to CentraCare-Melrose Hospital in Melrose for treatment of injuries. Assisting at the scene were Melrose police, Stearns County Sheriff’s deputies and Freeport Fire Department.
Melrose woman dies in crash
MELROSE TOWNSHIP — A Melrose woman died following a crash Oct. 9 west of Melrose. According to the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office, emergency personnel responded to a 911 call mapped via GPS near 355th Avenue and the Lake Wobegon Trail in Melrose Township. After several minutes searching, deputies and officers located a crash scene and an adult female, identified as Katie Llewellyn, 38, of Melrose, who had sustained serious injuries and died at the scene. The initial investigation determined Llewellyn was operating a 2004 Chevrolet Malibu and had been traveling south on County Road 185, crossed County Road 65 and continued to travel southbound on 355th Avenue advancing into a wooded area at the dead end of 355th Avenue and striking a tree. Llewellyn was not wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash, the report said. Assisting at the scene were the Minnesota State Patrol, Melrose police, Melrose ambulance and the Melrose Fire Department. The crash remains under investigation.
Albany man dies in farm accident
ALBANY TOWNSHIP — An Albany man died following a farm accident Oct. 5 in Albany Township. Around 6 p.m., the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office received a report that a man was pinned by a skid steer loading arm. Deputies, Albany police, Albany firefighters and Mayo Ambulance responded. The first officer at the scene determined the man was deceased. According to the sheriff’s office press release, an investigation revealed Duane Walter Ebensteiner, 68, of Albany, had been working on his skid steer trying to install tracks over the wheels. Sometime during this process, the lift arm of the skid steer came down and pinned him between the arm and skid steer. Ebensteiner had been working alone at the time. The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office is assisting, which is routine in accident investigations.
Utility fees may increase for some Holdingford users bill would be $300. To date, only the public school pays that amount. There will be information mailed out priSome users of utilities in Holdingford may see an or to the January billing. In a different action, the increase in their utility bills council approved $37,000 beginning next year. in unused American Rescue The council approved updating equivalent dwell- Plan funds to be used for ing unit calculations during the wastewater treatment their Oct. 10 council meet- and well system. The fund had to be designated by the ing at Holdingford City end of the year. Hall in Holdingford. The The billing and reportutility fee from those calcuing of the funds will utilize lations were put into place with the last 2011-12 utility the city’s new accounting program. Lahr reported improvement bond. permit fees and dog tag li“This needs to be censes will also be handled updated every couple of years to stay compliant with through the software. In other council news: our USDA (United States — The council directed Department of Agriculture) staff to collect information grant,” city clerk Nicky from other communities Lahr, explained later. “These funds are put direct- on spending policies. That ly towards the annual bond came after Lahr reported she could not find a polpayments.” The residential fee will icy related to purchasing authority without council remain at $15, but commercial businesses may see approval. — The council decided an increase based on their to not approve a $1,500 water usage. donation to the HoldingThere is a cap of 20 ford Community Education units, meaning the largest BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER
program. Council members had concerns about the appropriateness of giving tax monies to another entity, which is taxing the same people. The donation was approved in previous years. The city will continue to make city facilities available to the district. — Approve a gambling permit for the Holdingford Dance Team Booster Club. — Amy Opatz, manager of the Holdingford Municipal Liquor Store, presented information on staffing changes, training sessions and September sales. Staffing and inconsistent hours affected September sales. Opatz requested, and received permission, to offer double-time pay to parttime bartenders who work on holidays. She said it is difficult to staff the business on holidays and felt the increase would make it easier to do so. The six holidays would be New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day
and Christmas Eve. — Tabled a request from the Holdingford Fire Department on an hourly pay increase. Mayor Eric Berscheid recommended having a discussion at the November work session. — Acting on citizens’ requests, the council voted for road improvements to North High Court and Park Street. It was felt current road conditions warranted those improvements. — Approved Dec. 11 for the city’s Truth-in-Taxation meeting at city hall. — Approved the 2024 contract with the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office for four hours per week at $55 an hour with a cap of $12,000 a year. — Approved joining a class action lawsuit against 3M and Dupont on perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in the water system. — Took no action on a request to lower the speed limit to 15 mph along a portion of Prairie Street.
Animal blessing from front PHOTOS BY CAROL MOORMAN
Olivia Mergen (from left), Anniston Mergen and Evelyn Blenker hold baby goats before the animal blessing Oct. 6 outside Holy Family School in Albany. Dogs, cats, goats and a hamster were blessed.
Browerville man charged with fleeing an officer
MELROSE — A 47-year-old Browerville man was charged with allegedly fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle following an Oct. 6 incident in Melrose. According to a criminal complaint filed in Stearns County, at around 11:19 p.m., a Melrose police officer stopped a vehicle for expired license plates and the driver identified himself as Benedict Francis Butler. While the officer was verifying information, Butler drove away and the officer pursued the vehicle with speeds reaching in excess of 100 mph. Butler was later arrested at his Browerville residence. Butler’s driving records revealed his license was canceled inimical to public safety. Butler’s next court appearance is Oct. 23
August Stearns County felony convictions
ST. CLOUD — The following people were convicted of felony offenses in the Stearns County courts system in August: — Daniel Adam Hardee, 36, of Albany, was sentenced Aug. 14 for violation of a domestic abuse no contact order from an offense that took place April 13, 2022. Hardee received a stayed imposition of sentence and will serve five years’ probation, 56 days in jail and must pay a $50 fine plus surcharges; complete a substance abuse disorder assessment, domestic abuse programming and mental health evaluation and follow recommendations; provide a DNA sample; have no same or similar violations during probation; remain law abiding; sign releases of information; complete Domestic Violence Enhanced Supervision Program; not use or possess firearms; and follow rules of probation. —Brian Charles Johnson, 38, of Melrose, was sentenced Aug. 24 for second-degree assault count 1 and third-degree driving while impaired count IV for an offense that took place May 24, 2023. For count 1, Johnson received a 44-month prison sentence, serving 29 1/3 months in prison and 14 2/3 months on supervised release; must pay a $50 fine plus surcharges; provide a DNA sample and not use or possess firearms. For count IV, Johnson was sentenced to 93 days in jail and must pay a $50 fine.
The Rev. Edward Vebelun talks to Lucille Wilson before he blesses a line of stuffed animals Oct. 6 outside Holy Family School in Albany. This is the second year the animal blessing took place.
Abraham Belford holds his hamster after it was blessed during the Oct. 6 animal blessing outside Holy Family School in Albany. Parents brought the animals to school, including many that were students’ pets.
Farming Lions welcome new members
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OUR SAVIOR’S LUTHERAN CHURCH
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320-356-9001
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HOLDINGFORD COMMUNITY COUNTRY CHURCH Across from school
320-746-0005
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Wednesday: Pizza casserole, green beans, garden salad and bread. Thursday: Frittata, sausage patty, potatoes, spiced pears and muffin/pastry. Friday: Baked pork chop, potatoes, squash, applesauce and bread. Monday: Barbecue chicken breast, macaroni and cheese, mixed vegetables and bread. Tuesday: Western chili, garden salad, peaches and breadstick. Wednesday: Special of the day.
225 1st St. NE, (City Center)
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New Lions John Linn (from left), Brenna Linn and Jim Hansen (right) are welcomed by Farming Lions President Dave Robertson during a meeting Sept. 25 at the Farming Community Center in Farming. The club has 34 members.
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OPINION
THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | Page 5
The views expressed by our columnists are the opinions and thoughts of the author and do not reflect the opinions and views of newspaper staff and ownership.
Living wake words heart warming A few years ago I covered a living wake. Wow, I was overwhelmed as I continued A person knew he was dying and decided he reading the letter while tears ran down my wanted to have a party before that happened. face. Friends and family gathered in the community I am not reprinting this to toot my own room where he and his wife lived in Melrose horn but to reinforce the idea of letting people and they talked about his life, and he learned and businesses know how appreciated they how appreciated he was while he was still are — now — not when someone or some living. business is gone. Talking with another local It’s nice to show support to people and business owner, she said she has a card with businesses while they are still around, instead words of praise she keeps at her shop and From the Heart of having regrets of something left unsaid later. rereads occasionally, and she knows of other by Carol Moorman In early September I received what I conbusiness owners that have received written sider my living wake — although God willing words of praise. I’m not heading to heaven anytime soon. A hand-written In my 30 years of sharing stories with our readers I letter in beautiful penmanship arrived by mail at my have never experienced this, even though I often feel and office. That in itself blew me away, getting a handwritten hear the appreciation from people. But to see it in print letter in this day and age. was special. The writer of this letter was inspired by a recent These are things my siblings would hear as I lay in column I had written recently on how we need to support the coffin and people go through the line during my wake. local businesses. A long-time local business owner, he So, in a way it was my living wake. said his family is “forever grateful” to those people who My challenge to you — our readers — is to show supported them. your appreciation to someone or some business before it’s He went on to write, “But what about Carol Moortoo late so you don’t experience any regrets and, more imman? The from the heart person. That person we take for portantly, so they know how you feel before it’s too late. granted, thinking she will always be there, never thinking We often take someone or something for granted, until it’s she too, will someday be gone. That Carol that thrives gone. on her connection with people and is never too busy for I keep the letter on my desk, and when I have a chala chat or lengthy visit with an old friend. The Carol that lenging day, I reread it. carries the Stearns County spirit wherever she goes. A The letter ends with, “I, for one, will always rememcontagious smile. Just a Minnesota nice person. That ber the lady from the heart with her sunglasses, camera, Carol that works tirelessly, day after day, week after week pen and paper in hand. Just the opinion and thoughts of an to produce countless articles, pictures and stories of the admirer. Thank you for all that you do.” small bubble we live in. You bring the news, happiness, I, for one, will always be grateful to this man and tears of joy and, at times, a sad tragedy or two, week after hold his heart-warming words in my heart. week. ”
Round barns were legacies to farming efficiency Finding ways to be more efficient in farmstrong winds better than rectangular barns. ing is not new. At least one promoter pointed out that with A photo of a round barn located near Albaa round barn there was less chance of being corny, seen in the 1991 Albany Heritage Society nered by the devil since there were no corners. book “Albany: The Heart of Minnesota,” comThat same lack of corners also made it hard to piled by Jeanette Blonigen Clancy, is memoracorner cattle in the building. ble because it was so rare, and it is a reminder There were some round barns built in the that searching for efficiency was done over a area but not that many. Part of it was the cost century ago. related to time. While the buildings may have A Peek at the Past required less material to build, it took more time The barn has been razed, but when it by Herman Lensing because of the need to cut various angles. stood, it was emblematic of a desire for efficiency clashing with being careful what The buildings did not lend themselves to one wished for. Efficiency was the big selling having milk houses and cooling parlors atpoint for round barns in the 19th and early 20th century. tached. The interest in them goes back farther. George WashingBecause the silo was located in the building, it was ton had a round barn built at Mt. Vernon to help with his harder to place the feed material into it. grain storage and harvesting. Actually, Washington’s barn The barns were not always easily cleaned out. was 16-sided, but almost any barn with at least five equal Another reason they never became popular was timsides has been informally lumped into the round barn cat- ing. They came along at just the wrong time. egory. Truly circular barns did not become popular until As better materials became available, the cost to build the 20th century, according to a 2020 article by the Blue traditional barns was not that much different. Earth County (Minnesota) Historical Society. With the increase of mechanization in agriculture, it Promoters of round barns highlighted its benefits. was more practical to use rectangular buildings. Fewer and sometimes no pillars in the interior, allowing Different techniques for milking and herd care for more flexible storage. The barns required less materiworked better in a rectangular building. als when building it. A silo could be located at the center Various machines cut the time for labor, and the rural of the building, making it easier for feeding cattle. electrification network brought electricity into buildings, A 2012 Society of Architectural Historians article said allowing for additional labor-saving devices. the structures were more suited for efficient feeding beOver the years, round barns built in rural Albany cause of the shape of cows’ bodies — generally narrower and other areas gradually succumbed to time and were at the head than the back — which fit better in a circle at removed. The few that still remain stand as a testament to feeding time. farmers looking for efficiency, even in their farm buildOthers maintained round barns stood up to storms and ings.
LETTERS TO EDITOR Age limits needed for elected officials
Trevor J. Blonigen, Freeport As a future voter and as a current student learning about our current government, I have noticed our congressmen and women and current and past presidents have gotten older. Don’t get me wrong, getting older is not a bad thing for most people, but it is not very good for elected officials. As you get older your judgment gets clouded. You start to get left behind by society, and you start to encounter more and more health problems as you age. You also start to get caught up in the past, as well as you lose touch in terms of the way things are done modernly.
It is for these reasons I think there should be a limit on how old someone can be when a person is in a high office or in the process of running for one. A few examples of why there should be an age limit is Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Democrat of California, who recently passed away when she was 90. Sen. Mitch McConnell, Republican from Kentucky and the Senate minority leader, is 81 and is experiencing major health issues at the moment. So, it is not a Republican or Democrat issue. It is an issue facing our country. I do not know what the age limit should be, but I know there should be one in place.
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Look up Whenever my wife and I go on walks or nature hikes it takes longer than it should because she’s always stopping to take pictures of the sun through the trees, a wildflower or a leaf or rock shaped like a heart. She’s really good at noticing these things. Meanwhile I am usually racing In Other Words forward with my head by Bryan Zollman down, staring at the ground, eager to get my steps in for the day and get back to my daily tasks. If a cloud is shaped like Snoopy, I am probably missing it. I look at our walks as a way to get in some exercise and spend time with my wife and converse about whatever the topic seems to be that day. She will tell you it is one of her many ways she connects with nature She also hugs trees and sticks her bare feet in the mud for what she calls “earthing.” It’s a miracle we have been together 25 years because we are such polar opposites. But I guess that can be a good thing because we learn so much from each other. For example, she has taught me (without telling me) to look up. This past week I attended the funeral of one of the two best men in my wedding. He was one of my dearest friends. We went to high school together, roomed with each other in college and talked almost weekly for the past 30 years. With me a single child, he was as much a brother to me as I have had in my life. And now he’s gone at just 50 years old, leaving behind two young boys. I’d like to talk to him one more time, go to one more football game, tell one more joke and laugh about one of our old memories where we probably did something really dumb together. His passing was another stark reminder of how short life can be and how precious each day is. Every once in a while we get these reminders in our lives that interrupt our daily existence and cause us to pause, take a step back and realize we are only here for a short while and the things that matter most are usually not the things we strive to achieve on a daily basis. Instead, we are racing to work to make enough money to have the things we need to survive, pay our bills and hopefully afford some of the toys and luxuries we enjoy. We race home to take care of our families and our homes, cut the grass, shovel the driveway and fix what needs fixing. We do this over and over and over again. I recently turned 50 years old and can say, without hesitation, the most important possession in life are the relationships I have. Of course, immediate family always comes first, but friends are so important to have to live a life of joy and contentment. I have been lucky, yet, I feel perhaps many people don’t spend enough time valuing the friendships they have been so fortunate to have. Sometimes we get so caught up in our own existence we forget about the existence of others. We forget we, too, mean something to someone else, and we have to be there for them. That might mean breaking up our daily routine, putting a project on the back burner and ultimately getting out of our comfort zone. If our walks and nature hikes have taught me anything, it’s there is beauty all around us. It’s in the trees, in the tall grass, in the water and the wind. There’s beauty in each person, as well. We just have to be willing to look for it. We have to be willing to invest in it. We can spend our lives racing forward with our heads down trying to achieve what we think is expected of us. Or we can lift our heads and take in and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us every day. It’s OK to take a pause in this fast life we live. When you do, be sure to look up. You just might find what you have been looking for.
Song for the unborn
Rodney Wolf, Avon I wrote this melody to save the unborn. Song for the Unborn Save the unborn, for they are God’s own children. Save the unborn, for they are our children. Mothers, know this is true, That there is life inside of you. Doctors and lawyers, know what is right, Please come and join the flight. Politicians, know what is right and wrong, So please sing a true pure song. People, they know the contradiction: “Abort the unborn, save the children.” God loves the unborn, Please let them see a bright new morn.
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NEWS
Page 6 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | THE STAR POST
News B R I E F S I-94 open from Avon to Sauk Centre after road work completed
ST. CLOUD — All lanes are open on Interstate 94 between Avon and Sauk Centre. Crews resurfaced the mainline lanes with a new layer of asphalt between Highway 238 in Albany and St. John’s Road in Collegeville, near Avon. The project included access ramps at various interchanges between St. John’s Road and Highway 71/28 in Sauk Centre, along with the two rest areas near Avon. Motorists may encounter minimal lane or shoulder closures as crews remove traffic control devices. Benefits of the $9.6 million project include smoother road surfaces and reduced maintenance costs on I-94 between Collegeville and Sauk Centre.
Public N O T I C E S
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF ALBANY PLANNING COMMISSION There will be a Planning Commission meeting in and for the City of Albany, Stearns County, Minnesota, at 6:30 o’clock in the evening on Monday, October 30, 2023, in the Council room at 400 Railroad Avenue for the said City for the following: 1. The public hearing will be held on a request by ATC, LLC (Taylor Carbert), 800 2nd Avenue, for a variance to relax the front yard requirement from twenty (25) feet (Section 80.15, Subd 6(a)(2) to allow for the construction of a new single-family dwelling. 2. The public hearing will be held on a request by the City of Albany to amend Zoning Ordinance 80, to provide specific standards for building and roofing materials to each zoning district and remove duplicate or conflicting standards from Section 80.05 and 80.21. The amendments will allow for the use of vertical and horizontal metal siding and roofing materials with color matched or non-exposed fasteners. Anyone wishing to comment will be heard at the public hearing and written comments may be forwarded to the office of the City Clerk/Administrator before the time of the public hearing. Tom Schneider Clerk/Adm. Published in the Star Post, on the 18th day of October 2023. P-42-1B
Avon baseball parking lease proposal has hefty price tag Handshake agreement would change to $25,000 payment BY TIM HENNAGIR | STAFF WRITER
Avon city leaders have learned a proposed Central Park parking lease with the Church of St. Benedict and the Avon Lakers Baseball Club has a hefty price tag. Local attorney Dan Zimmerman presented the change to the city council on Oct. 2 at Avon City Hall in Avon. Zimmerman, Avon Lakers treasurer, appeared before the council as a club representative. He said he’s previously worked for the city and church in differing legal capacities. For years, the three parties have had a handshake agreement regarding St. Benedict’s property adjacent to Central Park that has been used for parking and related activities associated with Blattner Field and the city’s pickleball courts. A no-charge, verbal agreement has existed since 1980, with the church receiving outfield fence advertising as a token consideration, Zimmerman said. The current parking arrangement is less than desirable, Zimmerman said, because there is no clear arrangement governing prop-
erty use. He’s been working for more than a year with the St. Benedict’s finance committee to come up with a long-term parking lease draft, which he presented to the city Oct. 2. “While the drafted lease is quite simple, it does address a couple of important issues,” Zimmerman stated in a Sept. 26 letter emailed to city administrator Jodi Austing-Traut, mayor Jeff Manthe and the rest of the council. The proposed lease would last 20 years, starting Jan. 1, 2024, and ending Dec. 31, 2043, Zimmerman’s letter further states. The Lakers and the city would cover an up-front payment totaling $20,000, or $1,000 annually. The city and the Lakers also would pay an additional $5,000 for past property use considerations and create a new graveled access driveway on the northeast part of the leased area. The Lakers would also attempt to raise additional funding for a west side fence between the new drive and the playground areas on St. Benedict’s property. The proposed lease
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communications would be simplified and easier to follow. He said this new form did not require direct approval from the school board and would mostly be used among administrators internally. “If my principal has a decision they have to make, this is just a rubric they follow to gather all the information,” Swenson said. In other board news: — Rescheduled Benton Stearns Education District overview for a future meeting. — Changed the November board meeting to Nov. 16.
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the school board during his report at the Oct. 11 meeting at Holdingford Public Schools in Holdiingford. He said the new form would decrease complications with communication among administrators. “I just talked about some things I’m working on with my administration as far as the decision making process,” Swenson said in a followup interview. “Having a standard form that we are going to try to use together, (ensures) we’re all speaking the same language.” By having a uniform form for internal communications, Swenson said decision making and
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want a 20-year lease? That seems really far out there. A lot of things could change.” Zimmerman asked the city to provide numbers regarding its maintenance cost for the church property. “My hope is we would be able to find private funding for this and not money out of the city’s coffers,” he said. “For us to find funding through the ball team, there’s also a benefit for the city’s pickleball courts.” During their Oct. 2 meeting, council members also discussed improvements that might need to be made, including changing the proposed driveway configuration to the north and addressing site drainage corrections. Zimmerman said there wasn’t a rush on getting the proposed Central Park parking lease agreement approved between the three parties because the Avon Lakers baseball team had entered its off-season phase. “I appreciate everyone’s comments, especially Aaron’s,” he said. “The church finance committee meets monthly. Everybody wants to be good neighbors. If you can get me the city’s expenses on maintenance, maybe we can take another swing at it, and talk to the Rev. Edward Vebelun and the church finance committee.”
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also includes a first right of refusal in the event that the church would desire to sell the property in the future, Zimmerman said. “We were hoping to get a sweetheart deal with the church, but this is what we were able to get,” Zimmerman told the council. “We want to improve the drainage issue in the area and eliminate a bad traffic turnaround on church property.” Councilor Aaron Goebel was highly vocal with his concern the proposed parking lease would require the city to continue to maintain the property and pay the church $25,000 to lease it and pay for improvements tied to public parking rights. Councilor Doug Schaefer also asked if the overall lease term could be reduced. “I have serious concerns about this lease,” Goebel said. “It’s a little out of line. I think the town is getting raked over the coals. Asking the city to pay $25,000 and pay for maintenance costs seems ridiculous.” Zimmerman said he appreciated Goebel’s comments, and it wasn’t until fairly recently that he learned the city of Avon was mowing the church property. Schaefer then asked, “Why do they want all of the cash up front? Why do they
PUBLIC NOTICES
THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | Page 7
Notice of Public Accuracy Test ISD #738 Holdingford State of Minnesota Notice is hereby given that Holdingford Independent School District #738 will hold a Public Accuracy Test of the Electronic Voting System on Monday, October 23rd, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at the Holdingford City Hall. The Election shall be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at Holdingford City Hall. By Order of the School Board Patrick Meier, School District Clerk INDEPENDENT School District No. 738 Holdingford Public Schools State of Minnesota P-42-1B
Public N O T I C E S
CITY OF NEW MUNICH, MINNESOTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED CERTIFICATION OF UNPAID UTILITY BILLS Notice is hereby given that the council will meet at 6:00 p.m. on November 6, 2023 at City Hall, 220 Main Street, New Munich, MN to consider certification of unpaid utility bills for collection with property taxes. Minnesota Statutes sections 444.075 and 429.101 provide that unpaid water and sanitary sewer bills may be certified to the County Auditor to be included in a property owner’s annual property tax bill. By certifying the delinquent charges to the property taxes for the delinquent properties, the City is assured of ultimately collecting the delinquent charges. For 2023, there are presently six utility accounts that remain unpaid. The City Council intends to adopt the proposed assessment roll for certification of the unpaid charges following the public hearing at the November 6, 2023 City Council meeting. The total to be certified to the 2024 property tax roll, including the certification fee, is $7,789.51. The proposed assessment roll is on file for public inspection at my office. Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting. An owner may appeal an assessment to district court pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 429.081 by serving notice of the appeal upon the mayor or clerk of the city within 30 days after the adoption of the assessment and filing such notice with the district court within ten days after service upon the mayor or clerk; however, no appeal may be taken as to the amount of an individual assessment unless a written objection by the affected property owner is given to the city clerk prior to the public hearing or presented to the Mayor at the public hearing. Ann Piotrowski, City Clerk P-42-1B
Township of Avon Notice of Road Inspection The Supervisors of Avon Township will conduct a Road Inspection on Saturday, October 28, 2023, to identify roads in need of repair and to conduct any necessary business allowed by law. Supervisors will meet in the parking lot of the Avon Township Hall, 16881 Queens Road (Avon), at 9:00 AM and proceed from there. For questions or to report a specific road problem, contact the Township Clerk. Stephen G. Saupe, Clerk Avon Township clerk@avontownship.org Published in the Star-Post October 18, 2023 P-42-1B
PUBLIC NOTICE The Melrose City Council, at their first meeting in January of 2024, will give consideration to making appointments to the following positions for the various offices whose terms are expiring: 1. Planning and Zoning Commission – 4-year term Term expiring: Three members to be appointed. 2. Melrose Housing and Redevelopment Authority 5-year term Term Expiring: One member to be appointed. Any individual that wishes to be considered for possible appointment to the offices listed above should submit their application to City Clerk Patricia Haase, 225 1st Street NE, Melrose, Minnesota, 56352 by no later than Friday, November 17, 2023. The applications are available at the Melrose City Center. Dated this 18th day of October 2023 at the City of Melrose, Minnesota. PATRICIA HAASE CITY CLERK P-42/44-2B
Holdingford School Board Briefs The Holdingford School Board held their regular meeting on October 11 2023. Members present Evelyn Martini, Elissa Ebnet, Sarah Binek, Lori Opatz, Rob Knettel, and Pat Meier. Also attending was: Superintendent Chris Swenson, Business Manager Garrity Gerber, Elementary Principal Jim Stang, Secondary Principal Kevin Beehler, and Adm. Assistant Linda Zapzalka. Vice-Chair Lori Opatz called the meeting to order, the pledge was recited, and the amended agenda was approved. The consent agenda was approved. Items in the consent agenda included: approval of the minutes from the September 20 Regular Board Mtg & Special Closed Mtg; approval of the schedule of bills in the amount of $387,484.50. Computer checks approved #54901 through #55043 and #30741 through #30765 in the amount of $8,957.93; approval of the electronic transfer for September 2023, $2,058,047.68; acknowledgement of the Treasurer’s Report balance per books $6,398,800.37; called for a Special Closed meeting to follow the Board Meeting; approved Policy 406 Public and Private Data; approved Policy 427 Workload Limits for Certain Special Education Teachers; and accepted the following donations: $300 from Art in Motion for Cross Country, $1,247.47 from FFA Alum to FFA for tractor repairs and $350 from USA Community Chorus to Choir. The Board thanked the Donors for their support and generosity! Reports: Superintendent Swenson informed the Board he is utilizing a new method IROD Leadership Framework (Information, Reactions, Options, Decisions) for Cabinet Members to track their professional growth. He also reported that John Roberts will be taking students to a competition in Wilmar and they have been invited to stop by Standard Iron for a tour of the business. Thank you to Dave Fiedler for setting this up! Secondary Principal Beehler reported his first experience with Homecoming was phenomenal. He utilized a modified schedule during homecoming activities which worked out very well. Mr Beehler also updated the Board on the NHS Blood Drive, PBIS, Fundraiser, and end of quarter 1 coming on Nov. 1st. Elementary Principal Stang thanked everyone and everybody involved in the PTA Fundraiser. He reported that Study Skills is short staffed, Book Fair is in progress, fire prevention week, Securly information to parents, Substitutes inservice, the Level 3 Program and thanked Rodney Ebnet and Bus Drivers for their PBIS involvement! Business Manager Gerber reported expenses year to date are trending on track, STARS Report is submitted, Safe & Sick Time legislation changes are being implemented, and the Skyward Qmlativ conversion with a go-live-date for full transition will be in July of 2024. Other agenda items at the October 11, 2023 meeting included: Business Items: • The Annual Audit report was presented by Nancy Schultzenberg from berganKDV. She explained the District received an Unmodified Opinion on all financial statements – the best opinion an auditor is able to offer. She reported all financial statements are true and correct. One Material Weakness - Lack of Segregation of Accounting Duties common to Districts this size. She presented General Ed Aid history, Resident ADM’s which have held stable and students enrolled in/out are a net gain. She also summarized the revenue sources and expenses. Lastly Ms.
P-42-3B
Schultzenberg informed the Board that the unassigned general fund balance is at 16.1% and there are no compliance concerns and the Audit was approved. • Amended the Para Sub rate from $14 to $15/hr to be effective 11/1/2023. • Adopt the Resolution Of Governing Board Supporting Form A Application To Minnesota State High School League Foundation. • Mr. Gerber shared a proposal for an automated line painting system to mark lines on the fields. It is a robotic time saver which provides consistent lines and markings. Cost over the 6 years is $58,700. This product will take the place of Custodial Man hours spent marking fields. Authorized to enter into a six year lease agreement with Turf Tank. • Approved to change the Nov. Board meeting from Nov. 15th to Nov. 16th due to a Support Staff Banquet on the 15th. Personnel: • Approve the 2023-2024 & 2024-2025 Work Agreement with the Transportation Director Rodney Ebnet. • Approve the 2023-2024 & 2024-2025 Work Agreement with The Learning and Mobile Technology Support Person Jennifer Sandstrom. • Hired Alissa Bengston for Kids’ Zone Assistant. • Hired Olivia Meyer for Kids’ Zone Assistant. • Hired Natalie Sobania for Kids’ Zone Assistant. • Accept resignation from Ashley Krueger Secondary Para. • Approved the FY24 Advisors/Dept. Chairs as presented. • Hired Nicole Burg for an Elementary Para position. • Hired Emily Rademacher for a Secondary Para. • Authorized adding 15 minutes to the start time of Elementary Para Sue Ruprecht’s day. • Hired Haley Abel for the Kids’ Zone Supervisor position. • Approved the 2023-2024 & 2024-2025 Work Agreement with the Education Assistants. • Hired Targeted Services Staff as presented. • Approved the request from Kristen Bruns for Maternity Leave. A review of the upcoming meeting dates took place. School Board Closed Meeting following the October 11, 2023 Regular Board Meeting. School Board Meeting November 16th, 2023 @ 6:00 PM in the HS Meeting Room. Note date change. Holdingford School Board Special Closed Meeting Summary This special closed meeting of the School Board of Independent School District 738 was called to order on October 11, 2023 in the High School Meeting Room at 7:04 PM by Vice-Chairperson Opatz. Board members present: Evelyn Martini, Elissa Ebnet, Sara Binek, Lori Opatz, Robert Knettel and Pat Meier. Absent: None Also attending was Superintendent Chris Swenson & Business Manager, Garrity Gerber. Discussion ensued on negotiations strategies. Meeting adjourned at 7:35 PM. This article is a summary of the minutes. The full text is available for public inspection at the District Office or online at http://www.isd738.org/school-board-meeting-agendasminutes. html. P-42-1B
Avon Fire Department Addition and Remodel Avon, MN October 18, 2023 Project No. 2304 .SECTION 00 11 13 - ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS PART 1 - GENERAL 1.1 PROJECT A. Avon Fire Department Addition and Remodel 140 Stratford, St. W. Avon, MN 56310 1.2 OWNER A. City of Avon 140 Stratford St. W. Avon, MN 56310 Jodi Austing-Traut Jodi.a@cityofavonmn.com (320) 356-7922 1.3 PRE-BID MEETING A. Pre-Bid Meeting will be held prior to date required for submission of Bids. Bidders are encouraged to attend in order to better understand Project, and for dissemination of information and clarification of intent of Bidding Documents. Questions and responses will be published in an Addenda following conference. B. Pre-Bid Meeting will be held on October 25, 2023. C. Design-Builder will conduct pre-Bid Meeting at 9:00 A.M. local time. Owner will have a representative at meeting. Meeting will be held at Avon City Hall. D. Site Visitation: Bidders may not visit Project site except for the Pre-Bid Meeting. Owner will maintain continuous occupancy during construction. 1.4 BIDS DUE A. November 9, 2023 @ 2:00 pm local time. 1.5 PLACE DUE A. Submit bids to the attention Jodi Austing-Traut at City Hall, located at 140 Stratford St. No. Avon, MN. B. Bids will be opened in public and will be accepted by sealed envelope only. 1.6 TYPE OF BIDDING, AND CLASSES OF WORK A. Owner will accept proposals from Bidders for the separate prime contract awards for the following divisions of Work: Selective Demolition Cast-In-Place Concrete Precast Concrete Hollow-Core Plank Precast Concrete Wall Panels Unit Masonry Structural Metals, Misc. Metals, Steel Decking, Metal Stairs & Railing Rough Carpentry & Carpentry Labor. Architectural Casework Membrane Roofing, Sheet Metal Flashing & Trim Firestopping Joint Sealants Hollow Metal Doors, Hollow Metal Frames, Wood Doors and Hardware Sectional Doors Aluminum Entrances & Storefronts, Glass & Glazing Gypsum Board Assemblies Tile Work Acoustical Ceilings Carpet & Resilient Flooring Painting Specialties Site Demo, Earthwork, Utilities, Dewatering, Planting Bituminous Paving B. SALES TAX: The Owner intends to purchase qualifying types of materials, equipment, and supplies directly and to assert Owner’s exemption from sales and use taxation on those purchases pursuant to Minn. Stat. Chapter 297A. As an alternative, the Owner may at its option elect to appoint the bidder as a purchasing agent for the Owner for such materials. To obtain the sales exemption, the State of Minnesota Department of Revenue requires that the bids for qualifying materials be separated from bids for the rest of the work and that these bids can be accepted separately. 1.7 AVAILABILITY OF DOCUMENTS Drawings and specifications are on file at the following locations: 1.) The office of the General Contractor: W. Gohman Construction Bill Trout or Jennifer Champa info@wgohman.com (320) 363-7781 2.) MN Builders Exchange 1.8 BID SECURITY: A. A bid security is required for any bid that exceeds $175,000. Tax Exempt material bids do not require a bid security. Bids to be valid for 60 days. 1.9 PERFORMANCE AND PAYMENT BOND A. Performance & Payment Bond is only for any contract amount that exceeds $175,000. 1.10 REJECTION A. Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive Bidding formalities, and to award sub contracts to Bidder that Owner finds to their best advantage. B. Each Bidder agrees to waive any claim it has or may have against Owner, General Contractor, Architect, engineers, and their respective employees, arising out of or in connection with administration, evaluation, or recommendation of any Bid. 1.11 PRIOR APPROVAL A. This Contract has a 7-calendar day prior approval clause for product Substitutions. PART 2 - PRODUCTS NOT USED PART 3 - EXECUTION NOT USED END OF SECTION P-42-1B
SPORTS
Page 8 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | THE STAR POST
Huskies hold off Awe-inspiring arm Annandale Longtime pitcher Klasen Albany volleyball sweeps Pequot Lakes
to be inducted BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER into softball hall of fame The Albany Huskies volleyball team won the first two
sets, fell in the next two and rallied in the fifth for a 3-2 win over Annandale Oct. 16 at Annandale High School in Annandale. Albany won 25-15, 25-17, but Annandale took the next two 25-19, 25-23 to tie the match. In the fifth and deciding set, Albany won 15-9. Hannah Klein led Albany in kills with 21, with Kelsey Lobitz getting 11. Ava Hines went 22-for-23 serving with two aces. Ellery Ehresmann had 44 set assists while getting two aces on 20 of 22 serves. Paige Lauer got 18 digs, Hines 15 and Klein 12. The win ups Albany’s record to 23-3 with just one regular season match left, Oct. 17 against Pierz. After that is section playoffs, which begin Monday, Oct. 23. Albany 3, Pequot Lakes 0 When the Huskies met Pequot Lakes back in September, they came back from a two-set deficit to win 3-2. The two top teams in the Granite Ridge Conference faced each other again Oct. 12, this time at Pequot Lakes High School in Pequot Lakes. As in their first match, the sets were close, but this time, the Huskies prevailed from the start and won 3-0, with scores of 25-21, 25-23, 25-23. The win earns the Huskies the Granite Ridge Conference title with a 10-0 record. Hines, 16 of 17, and Lauer, 15 of 16, were the serving leaders for the Huskies. Both had one ace serve each. Klein compiled 31 kills and Brynn Panek had 13. Lobitz led in digs with 18 while Lauer had 12, Hines 11 and Ehresmann 10. Ehresmann also had 42 set assists. Olivia Lemm led in ace blocks with three. Albany 3, Little Falls 0 The Huskies got off to a good start when they hosted the Little Falls Flyers and won 3-0 Oct. 10 at Albany Area High School in Albany. Albany was dominant in the first two sets, winning 25-10, 25-9. “We had some nice blocks in set one and really good digging in set two,” said Brian Hines, head coach. “I thought we did a good job in setting the tone.” The third set was closer, but the Huskies prevailed 25-21. “I thought we played pretty well tonight,” Coach Hines said. “From an offensive standpoint, we hit the ball really hard. We placed the ball really well (and) got them out of system on the serve.” Hines had another good match serving, making 15 of 15. She also led in digs with eight. Ehresmann, in addition to her 30 set assists, had five ace serves. Klein led in kills with 20 and in ace blocks with five.
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BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER
It is hard to pin down a single softball moment when it comes to the career and life of Melvin “Micky” Klasen. The Melrose resident strung together a decorated career as a fastpitch softball pitcher that lasted for over six full decades, a mark of longevity that not many will ever match. Even as he entered his 70s, he sent batters less than half his age back to the dugout with the precision and consistency that made him a tournament icon. There are so many moments and highlights adrift a sea of spectacular softball showmanship, so many in fact, that Klasen finds himself as a member of the upcoming Minnesota Softball Hall of Fame Class of 2023, with the ceremony Saturday, Oct. 21, at The Historic Holmes Theatre in Detroit Lakes. “It’s an honor to have that recognition by the softball association,” Klasen said. The career of one of the state’s hallmark softball achievers began in traditional fashion. Growing up in St. Rosa, Klasen first picked up the sport in grade school in 1958 as his school, St. Rosa Elementary, would compete against close-by Flowing Wells in friendly games. He also would throw against the siding of the family barn and played with his four brothers, with his brother Dan serving as his catcher. Already, Klasen had established himself as the go-to mound presence, developing an arm that
PHOTOS BY EVAN MICHEALSON
Micky Klasen fires a pitch toward home plate Oct. 9 at Lions Community Park in Freeport. Klasen pitched for several area teams over the course of an expansive 60-plus-year career as a fastpitch softball player.
would soon be recognized all across central Minnesota. A few years later, Klasen jumped aboard St. Rosa’s softball team that competed in a Sunday afternoon league. One of the biggest turning points in his career, however, came off the diamond. While in the military in 1963, Klasen was taught how to throw a riseball, a pitch with upward movement that often tailed outside to right-handed hitters. It was a deadly option at his disposal that not only could fool hitters into swinging and missing but often coaxed weak contact. “He showed me how to throw a riseball and how you grip it,” Klasen said. “I prac-
ticed and practiced. That was the pitch I used all the time. I got really professional at the riseball to where I could control the game. Plus, you could get a lot of flyballs and pop-ups.” While this new addition to the toolkit did not completely define Klasen’s identity as a pitcher, it certainly did not hurt in making the righthander one of the hardest throwers to hit against. One example of his pitching prowess came in 1966, when the Fenske’s Bar softball team called up Klasen to pitch for them at a tournament in Paynesville. After the squad endured an immediate loss in the first game of the tournament, Klasen was brought in the next day and delivered an urban-legend-like performance to send Fenske’s all the way to the championship. The gutsy performer pitched the team to wins in seven consecutive games, striking out 49 batters in 47 innings, including a pair of no-hitters. The last two games came against the team that defeated Fenske’s the night before. “The next day, my chest was so sore I could barely take a deep breath,” he said. That Paynesville appearance was one of several notable entries in Klasen’s wide array of softball experience. He took part in an eightteam league held on Monday nights in Sauk Centre, where he pitched for Earl’s Bar in Melrose and regularly played in the Freeport Fastpitch League for over 40 years, along with competing for teams all across Stearns County. He also threw Micky Klasen dons his St. Rosa softball uniform during a trip against famous players Eddie to the softball diamond at Lions Community Park Oct. 9 in Feigner and Rosie Black and Freeport. Klasen will be inducted into the Minnesota Softball their four-person teams. Hall of Fame Oct. 21. “As you get more profi-
cient at it, all of these teams start to recognize you,” he said. “When you go to tournaments or that type of thing, they call you up.” Klasen also registered a string of successful tournament runs with the Villard Merchants from 1982 to 1984. During that time, Villard captured three consecutive Class B District 6 titles, and in 1982, the Merchants attended at the Minnesota Class B Fastpitch State Tournament in Duluth and regions in Grand Forks, North Dakota, where they finished as runners-up both times. Being a part of those well-renowned teams and traveling with them around the state and even out-of-state allowed Klasen to form many lifelong relationships. “You make a lot of friends and you get to know the players you play with all of the time,” Klasen said. “You get a lot of satisfaction out of winning games, and the guys have fun. That’s what it’s all about: having fun.” Some of Klasen’s longterm catchers were Hank Middendorf and the late Dennis Heidgerken. Klasen could not always make these appearances. He maintained a longtime occupation as a Minnesota Department of Transportation engineer and project manager, served on the Melrose City Council for over a decade, was a member of the Minnesota National Guard in Sauk Centre for 13 years and supported CentraCare-Melrose on its board of directors. However, the enjoyment he got out of playing fastpitch softball brought him back time and time again whenever available, and through staying active physically and avoiding any nagging injuries, Klasen played all the way in his mid-70s. Over the course of that incredible span, many of his family members have followed suit in the activity. His and wife Kathy’s sons, Tony and Mike; his grandson, Louis; and his nephew, Joe Hennen, all are pitchers in the Freeport Fastpitch League, while his granddaughters Kaitlyn and Emalee pitch for the Melrose Area Lady Dutchmen softball team. His daughter Audrey was the first pitcher for Melrose’s high school fastpitch program when it began in 1989. “It’s fun and it’s family,” he said. “My whole family is over there when they’re playing games. I can go to Freeport and my grandkids and sons are there.” While Klasen no longer is out there to strike fear into the hearts of hitters everywhere, he is thankful for all of the memories he gained through the sport and for the knowledge the game he once played will never forget him. “I never thought about being inducted into the hall of fame,” Klasen said. “It’s not something everyone gets to be a part of.”
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THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | Page 11
Huskies find win Lady Dutchmen volleyball Motivated over Minnewaska Area rebounds for wins Albany eclipses 300 rushing yards
sets. Minnewaska Melrose top MACA, Minnewaska Area contested Area won 25-21 and 25-14 in the first and third set, reBY HERMAN LENSING | STAFF WRITER spectively. Melrose grabbed 25-21, 26-24, 15-13 wins to take the second, fourth and The Melrose Area In the second set, Alyssa Lady Dutchmen volleyStordahl’s five-point run put fifth sets, respectively. “We lost in five when ball team rebounded from Melrose ahead, as Avery we went there, so it was a 25-19 loss to take a 3-1 Birch aced in point No. 25 win Oct. 12 over Morris and served the set-winning nice they could rally back and get the win this time,” Area/Chokio-Alberta at point. said Emily Reller, head Morris Area High School in Alea Berscheit had an Morris. eight-point run with an ace coach. The night was dedicatThe team’s net play in set three, while Hannah picked up in the final three Hoppe earned an ace during ed to the eight seniors on the team, and they came sets, leading to 26-24, 25her eight-point run in the through. 17, 25-13 wins. final set. “We struggled, but at Throughout the contest, Melrose 3, the end, it was our time,” Allie Hoppe kept finding Minnewaska Area 2 said senior Ria Nelson, ways to keep errant flight The Lady Dutchmen who had 30 assists in the balls alive. That allowed the seniors made their last team’s offense to reset. regular season home match contest. “There was a lot of The first set was a game memorable Oct. 10 at Mel- talk about being patient and waiting.” of side outs, but in the last rose Area High School in Melrose led by two late three sets, the Lady Dutch- Melrose. men piled up point-building Melrose prevailed over in the first set, only to have it slip away. In the second runs. The runs came from Minnewaska Area 3-2 in set, it rallied late behind a throughout the lineup. a back-and-forth match of
five-point run, including two aces by Birch. The third set, though, was all Minnewaska Area. “We did not play so well in the third set,” Reller said. “To rally with each other and ride out that tough part was really fun.” From that point on, the Lady Dutchmen asserted themselves. Kaylee Ellering recorded 10 kills and three blocks, Hannah Hoppe’s 21 digs and passes to Nelson resulted in sets for the hitters, and her younger sister, sophomore Allie Hoppe, had 19 digs. Isabelle Jaenicke and Alea Berscheit both participated in five blocks and each had six kills. Hannah Hoppe added two ace serves and five kills. Olivia Schmiesing’s back-row play resulted in 16 passes to the front.
HOLDINGFORD SPORTS
Boys cross-country captures 1st at Cathedral Invite
line for Holdingford in 16 minutes, 55.61 seconds for fourth place overall. FinishThe Holdingford boys ing fifth was Joseph Guthcross-country team placed rie at 16:58.11, followed four individuals in the top by Quinn Guthrie, eighth, 10 on its way to a first-place 17:17.41; Jimmy Jensen, finish at the Cathedral Invi- 12th, 17:41.98; and Aidan tational Oct. 10 at Wapicada Pellett, 15th, 17:54.71. Golf Club in Sauk Rapids. Holdingford’s team Dawson Hofer was score of 44 was followed the first to cross the finish by Cathedral in second with BY MIKE KOSIK STAFF WRITER
52. Six teams and 43 individuals competed in the boys varsity race. The Huskers girls finished sixth among six teams. Evie Aleckson was the first Husker to finish, coming in 28th at 23:28.95, followed by Olivia Klasen, 30th, 23:42.03; Gracelyn Gerads, 31st, 24:05.09;
Claire Arvig, 32nd, 24:06.31; and Suzette Guthrie, 35th, 25:46.83. Finishing first for the girls and taking the top five places was Cathedral with a score of 15. Holdingford’s team score was 156. Forty-one individuals ran in the girls 5,000-meter race.
Football team rushes past Paynesville passes for two touchdowns and no interceptions. Bartkowicz caught one pass for 25 yards and a touchdown and Johnson had one catch for 18 yards and a touchdown. The Huskers improved to 5-2 with the win. The Huskers will host Eden Valley-Watkins at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 18 in their season finale. EV-W comes into the game boasting a 7-0 record. HOL 8 16 8 8-40 PYN 0 0 6 0-6
Aquatics 7th at section true team Finishing first was Melrose with a score of 1,768. The Huskers had 739 The Holdingford swim- points. Holdingford results: 200MR: ming and diving team fin10. Brooklyn Kuklok, Afton Scegura, ished seventh among nine Madison Tschida and Gross 2 min9.79 seconds. 200FS: 20. Lynn teams at the Section 6A true utes, Arvig 2:25.97. 200IM: 11. Madison team meet Oct. 14 at Tech Tschida 2:38.37. 50FS: 16. Grayce Johnson 28.52. 100FLY: 13. Tschida High School in St. Cloud. 1:12.63. 100FS: 3. Gross 57.57. 500FS: Maggie Gross had the 19. Arvig 6:27.12. 200FSR: 7. Gross, best finish for the Huskers, Johnson, Kylie Breth and Tschida taking third among 35 com- 1:51.08. 100BK: 14. Kuklok 1:15.38. 10. Scegura 1:20.51. 400FSR: petitors in the 100 freestyle. 100BR: 7. Gross, Breth, Scegura and Kuklok BY MIKE KOSIK STAFF WRITER
relay, 200 individual relay, Holdingford 97, 100 butterfly, 500 freestyle, Little Falls 89 200 freestyle relay and 100 The Huskers finished backstroke. 200MR: 1. Kuklok, Scegura, strong in a 97-89 win over Tschida and Gross 2:09.26. 200FS: 4. the Little Falls Flyers Oct. Kendall Isder 2:27.12. 200IM: 1. Kuklok 2:42.61. 50FS: 2. Johnson 28.15. 10 at Little Falls High 1M Diving: 3. Precious Diakite 132.55 School in Little Falls. points. 100FLY: 1. Tschida 1:10.91. The Huskers won the 100FS: 2. Sand 1:05.85. 500FS: 1. final event, the 400 freestyle Gross 6:03.67. 200FSR: 1. Kylie Breth, Tschida, Sand and Gross 1:54.47. relay, and also took third. 100BK: 1. Kuklok 1:14.59. 100BR: 2. Holdingford also won first Scegura 1:23.12 and 4. Sand 1:25.07. 400FSR: 1. Tschida, Johnson, Gross place in the 200 medley and Kylie Breth 4:10.3. 4:13.02.
Volleyball downs Upsala in three sets
nine kills. Gabby Bruns had 12 digs and Ava Hagerty two blocks. The Holdingford volHoldingford 3, Kimball 1 leyball team defeated UpHohbein set another sala in three sets at its final school record Oct. 12, home match of the season surpassing the previous Oct. 16 at Holdingford High mark in career kills after School in Holdingford and totaling 22 against Kimball won 25-12, 25-11, 25-10. at Holdingford High School “It was a great way to in Holdingford. end our last home game of She shattered the old the season and to celebrate record of 773 and is still senior night with a win,” counting with the remainder said Molly Klatt, head of the season to go. Earlier, coach. she set the single match reMaddy Mitchell led the cord in kills with 32 in a 3-2 team with 22 serves and win over Osakis Sept. 12. three aces. Makenna HohThe Huskers notched a bein had 40 set assists and Central Minnesota ConferBY MIKE KOSIK STAFF WRITER
ence victory with a 3-1 win over the Cubs. “We played the best we’ve played all season tonight,” Klatt said. “The girls had lots of energy and showed up to win and their energy and teamwork really showed tonight.” The Huskers won the first set 25-14 but fell in the second 25-17. They came back to win the next two, 25-21, 25-16. Mitchell had 45 set assists and 18 serves. Hagerty led the team with three aces. Bruns led in digs with 13 and Marissa Nienaber recorded three blocks.
Not even a change in location would deny the Albany Huskies football team a bounce-back win after an overtime loss to Rockford last week. Handing the ball off to 11 ball-carriers, the Huskies established a physical rushing presence early and often in a 52-6 win over the Minnewaska Area Lakers Oct. 13 at Sauk Centre High School in Sauk Centre. “It was a feel-good night after a disappointing loss, and it was just what we needed,” said Mike Ellingson, head coach. The change in tides was evident from the get-go, as Albany’s opening drive ended in a touchdown. Drew Lehner broke loose for a 23-yard touchdown scamper 55 seconds into the contest and scored the team’s second touchdown nearly seven minutes later on a 6-yard rushing score. Adam Dennis, who paced the backfield with 129 rushing yards on 10 carries, dashed into the end zone for a 21-yard touchdown to close out an electric first quarter that saw Albany put up 24 points. “They had pride,” Ellingson said. “We called plays with different backs all night, and we had rotations within the offensive line all night and there was a sense of pride. When we got the ball, we were going to do something with it.” Two more rushing touchdowns in the second quarter continued the rollicking rout for the Huskies, who entered the halftime break up 37-0. The positive performance came in a new locale as Albany’s scheduled home game was moved to Sauk Centre due to standing water on Michael Field. Even with senior night halted by the weather, the Huskies treated the showdown like a home game. “It was just trying to make it as much of a home atmosphere as we could,” Ellingson said. “I thought our fans traveled well for the weather, and the kids responded really well.” Joseph Schmitt, who ran for 79 yards on the day, hustled for six on a 6-yard run in the third quarter, while Zachary Birr reached paydirt in the fourth quarter as Albany turned to several playmakers to grind out yards and drain the clock. In the end, the Huskies accumulated 325 rushing yards on 39 attempts. “That’s the attitude, effort and conviction we are trying to instill with our run game,” Ellingson said. Not to be forgotten in the 50-point showing was a defensive clinic put on by the Huskies, who held the Lakers to under 150 offensive yards. “Minnewaska’s first drive, they got a couple of first downs, but our defense rallied and got in the rhythm of things and really started to get after it,” Ellingson said. Albany quarterback Andrew Olson completed one pass to Schmitt for 19 yards. The Huskies will close out their regular season against Montevideo at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 18, at Montevideo High School in Montevideo. MWS ALB
0 0 0 6-6 24 13 8 7-52
Border
BATTLE MELROSE
In the second quarter, Lange had a run of 1 yard and Bieniek had a run of 11 yards for touchdowns. Bieniek Two Huskers ran for over 100 and Lange each had a 2-point converyards each and three touchdowns sion run. in a 40-6 Holdingford win over the Holdingford led 24-0 at halftime. Paynesville Bulldogs Oct. 13 at Lange threw to Beau Johnson for Paynesville High School in Paynesan 18-yard touchdown reception in ville. the third quarter. Lange ran for the Drew Lange broke loose for 119 two extra points. yards on 21 carries and one touchThe Huskers went to the air again down and Luke Bieniek logged 116 in the final quarter, this time on a yards on 15 carries for two touchLange-to-Jaxon Bartkowicz 25-yard downs. Bieniek scored Holdingford’s first pass. Masyn Patrick, who recorded 59 touchdown in the opening quarter on rushing yards on eight carries, added a 12-yard run. He also ran the ball for the two extra points on a run. Lange completed four of 10 the 2-point conversion. BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER
BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER
Marks the spot where your ad could have been. Let’ s Talk!
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The Sauk Centre and Melrose Lions are doing a Border Battle between Sauk Centre and Melrose high school sports. Each time one beats the other they will get a point. The winner gets a donation to their school’s booster club or a scholarship from the other club.
SPORTS
Page 12 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | THE STAR POST
Showing promise in the postseason Dutchmen boys soccer finishes 1-1 at section playoffs BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER
The Melrose Area Dutchmen finished their boys soccer season by going 1-1 in the Section 8A Tournament. Melrose fell 5-1 to Cathedral Oct. 14 at St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud. It marked the Dutchmen’s first appearance in the semifinals. The team finished with five wins, tying it with the 2016 squad for most wins in a single season. Those marks have the team already looking to next year. “We are young,” said Mauricio Perez, Jr., head coach. “The core of the team is sophomores.” Cathedral 5, Melrose 1 Melrose played a strong defensive game in the first half and trailed 2-1 entering the locker room. Cathedral
PHOTOS BY HERMAN LENSING
The reactions of the Melrose boys soccer team contrasts to that of a Minnewaska Area player when the game-winning goal was scored Oct. 12 at Minnewaska Area High School in Glenwood. Melrose won in double overtime.
took a quick 1-0 lead on a corner kick less than two minutes into the game. The Dutchmen tied the game with 5:10 remaining in the half on a penalty kick by Alonso Montanez Martinez. It started with Alejandro Martinez Montanez faking the kick, while Alonso Montanez Martinez came from behind him and kicked it. The ball arched over a wall of defenders and out of the goalie’s reach, in the upper left-hand corner. “We have kind of joked
around with it (the play), but I didn’t know they were going to do it,” Perez said. “He (Montanez Martinez) is as sophomore. I don’t think we’ve seen his full potential.” Goalie Adan Lara Ambriz, who had eight saves, made leaping and diving stops in both halves. With under 20 minutes left, Cathedral added three more goals to advance. Melrose 1, Minnewaska Area 0 Montanez Martinez’s
quick kick into the net with 1:55 left in second overtime gave Melrose a section quarterfinal win over Minnewaska Area Oct. 12 at Minnewaska Area High School in Glenwood. “I go to every ball that comes,” Montanez Martinez said. “The ball came free and clear.” The whole second half and two overtime periods were played in rain. Throughout the game, the Dutchmen looked to move the ball quickly. The team
Defender Aaron Abonce Garcia winds up to send the ball downfield in the Section 8A semifinals Oct. 14 at St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud. Abonce Garcia and other Melrose defenders were under constant pressure during the game.
was physically smaller than the Lakers. “I told the kids who are really, really fast, if they change direction now and
Alonso Montanez Martinez takes the ball through Cathedral defenders Oct. 14 in the semifinal section contest with Cathedral in St. Cloud. Montanez Martinez scored the first semifinal goal in Dutchmen history.
Thankful for
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Friday, November 10th | 9am - 1pm Melrose American Legion - Enjoy a free lunch!
Speaker: Ted Mathews, MN Dept. of Agriculture Presented by NAMI St. Cloud Area Space is limited! To register, call:
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Purple PRIDE What do you enjoy most about being part of the swim team? I like the community it brings me into and having a second family and knowing they are supporting me through the whole season throughout everything. Tell us about the most memorable meet you have been part of. The border battle meet, because it was the same pool that Michael Phelps swam in for the Olympic trials. What other activities are you involved in at school? Captains and Leaders and softball.
Sara Eiynck
What life lesson has being involved in activities taught you? Hard work and determination is necessary to achieve your goals that you are striving toward.
Parents: Darryl and Heidi Eiynck Accomplishment: Senior and captain on the Albany Area High School girls swimming and diving team
What are two of goals you would like to accomplish during the school year? To become a certified nursing assistant and be accepted into my college of choice.
then, it is harder for defenders to stop you,” Perez Jr. said. At the defensive end, Lara Ambriz kept himself ready for any Laker attack. He made 17 stops. As the clock wound down in overtime, he was preparing himself for penalty shots. “I was nervous but confident,” he said. “I’ve had six penalty saves this year.” Montanez Martinez’s goal ended the game with a Melrose victory, the team’s fifth. “The kids came out and played a heck of an overtime,” Perez Jr. said. “We told them if they play the way they can play, they can compete with almost any team in the area.”
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What is something you have learned in class recently? How to use fire as special effects for pictures. Which teacher and coach has been most influential in your life? All the staff at Albany are amazing, but the one teacher that stands out to me is Mrs. Curtis. She has taught me so much, whether it’s in art class or in life lessons. Her bright, energetic personality cannot be matched by anyone I know. She always knows how to put a smile on a person’s face. Tell us something about yourself most people do not know. When I was younger, I said I was going to join swimming because I wouldn’t sweat like you would in any other sport. Little did I know back then you still do sweat, but it’s easier to cover up. For dinner and a movie, what is on the menu and big screen? Olive Garden Italian Restaurant and five-cheese ziti. My movie choice would be anything with Adam Sandler in it.
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Christopher Herrera Parents: Juan and Antonia Herrera
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Accomplishment: Senior center defender on the Melrose Area High School boys soccer team
What do you like most about being in soccer? I like to have fun with the people I am with, working as a team, and I have a passion for soccer.
What is the most interesting thing you have learned in a class recently? In ceramics, we learned how to carve clay.
What is your most memorable experience in a game? Stopping a ball from going in when it got by the goalie.
What teacher or coach has made an impact on your life? My coach, Mauricio Perez, Jr., has taught me how to work harder, to work as a team member and to be a better player.
What other activities are you involved in at school? I was in wrestling in ninth grade and I might go out for it again.
How do you like to spend free time? Going out or being with family and friends. What is your favorite restaurant and the meal you order? Chicken Alfredo at Olive Garden Italian Restaurant.
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How do you try to make a difference at school? Talking to more people.
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