Star Post 11-08-2023

Albany football page 10

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Number 45 • Volume 134

Albany council approves new city administrator compensation package

ATKINSON TO TALK ABOUT SPACE MISSIONS BOOK AT MELROSE LIBRARY

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

Winkels will resign from public works, fire department posts

pg. 6

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

The city of Albany has reached a compensation agreement with Gary Winkels, its next administrator-clerk-treasurer.

Interim city administrator Tom Schneider presented the agreement during the Nov. 1 council meeting at Albany City Hall in Albany.

Winkels’ starting salary will be $82,500 or $41 hourly.

He will resign as a public works assistant on or before Dec. 31, 2023. Winkels will complete his term as fire chief and resign effective Jan. 1, 2024. Department members will vote on his successor at a December meeting. Albany’s

BY CAROL MOORMAN | STAFF WRITER new fire chief would take over effective Jan. 1. wenty-five years ago Schanhaar-Otte VFW Schneider said the pubPost 7050 members added a military tank lished range for the city to the back side of the Melrose Veterans administrator-clerk-treasurer Memorial on west main street. was $85,000 to $100,000 and A few weeks ago, in front of the granite mewas dependent upon a candimorial stone, the VFW added life-like statues of a date’s cations.

As thequalifi sun was starting to rise Monday, Commercial soldier walking within-an M16 rifle and a kneeling Seven people interviewed Contractors Company workers from Melrose were soldier placing the United States flag on a soldier’s for the administrator side thecity Lisa’s On Main posibuilding working on securing grave that has an M16 rifle, helmet and boots on it. tion,west he said. the wall.

PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN The plan also calls for an eagle to be added in front If Winkels receives a of the standing soldier. successful performance “The VFW wanted to give the memorial a facereview after six months, he lift,” Jim Athmann, VFW post commander, said will receive $88,400 or $42.50 Oct. 31. “Not a lot has been done since 1950, mayhourly.

400 Block update

Melrose memorial receives face-lift

COMMUNITY COVERAGE 127 YEARS

Dedicated to veterans,

lasting peace

T

PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN

be a few bushes were planted and later we added flowers and the park board added two benches.”

Each spring VFW post and auxiliary members Nancy Kemper, Dave and Marilyn Weber, Vern and Doreen Frericks and Jim and Rosie Athmann plant flowers lining the sidewalk leading up to the monument, and throughout the summer they weed and water them to ensure they flourish. Small flags are installed in the ground, and Bill Rausch takes care of replacing the flags when needed.

The memorial, on city property at the Melrose Veterans Memorial Park, was initially organized by World War II veterans who were VFW post members.

Veterans page 4

Melrose Veterans Honor Guard members Jim Athmann (front, from left), Linda Budde and Joe Wilwerding; (middle, from left) Gordy Olson, Bill Rausch, Ivan Blenker, Bud Moening, Dave Sieben, Mike Schlicht, Don Salzmann, Rich Van Drehle and Gene Rademacher; (back, from left) Dick Koll, Gary Toenyan, Donnie Van Drehle and Allen Notch gather Nov. 1 near the new statues at the Melrose Veterans Memorial on west main street in Melrose. The memorial was dedicated in 1950, with improvements by SchanhaarOtte VFW Post 7050, including the addition of a military tank in 1998 and the statues.

Council page 3

Holding community journalism

to a high regard The Star Post’s Kosik celebrates 50th anniversary in industry

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

Mike Kosik never envisioned the life that lay ahead when he began studying journalism as a budding student writer at St. Anthony Village High School in the mid-1960s.

Back then, the young go-getter relayed stories about the school’s sports teams for the student newspaper, getting a feel for the world of journalism. He immediately fell in love with it.

And after over a half-century of chasing that continuous dream of telling stories, Kosik is being recognized for his 50th anniversary within the newspaper industry with an open house ceremony Nov. 17 at Albany Bowling Center in Albany.

“I feel very fortunate that I’ve been able to do it as

ST R

Publications The newspaper of today is the history of tomorrow.

Celebrating Huskies football

win

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Mike Kosik serves the community as a journalist at The Star Post office Nov. 2 in Albany. Kosik has reported the news for five decades.

long as I have been doing it,” Kosik said. “You see the role of community journalism as something that’s very important to a community.”

With an exciting introduction to the endeavor under his belt, Kosik wanted to turn this passion into a potential

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career opportunity. After high school graduation in 1967, he studied at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities’ School of Journalism, where he received an in-depth look at print journalism as a form of medium and served as a member of the Reserve Offi-

cers’ Training Corps. These two life destinations blended well for Kosik, who wrote PHOTO BY MIKE KOSIK for the ROTC’s Brigade Albany Huskies seniors Hunter Hamann (from left), Adam Banner newspaper during his Dennis, Andrew Olson and Devon Schaefer raise the Section collegiate studies.

6AAA championship trophy Nov. 3 at Blattner Stadium in Cold

Kosik page 4

PUBLIC NOTICES Probate Notice - Dirkes ..................................................... pg. 7 City of Albany Ord. No. 80 Zoning Summary Amendment pg. 7 City of Albany Notice of Full-time Position ....................... pg. 7 City of Freeport Advertisement for Bids............................ pg. 7 Albany Area School Agenda ............................................. pg. 7

Spring. The Huskies strung together a 23-point comeback to eliminate the defending Class AAA state champion New London-Spicer Wildcats.

BIRTH page 3 Amora Julianna Curry

OBITUARY page 4 Albert B. Rodenwald

$1.50

Page 2 | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | THE STAR POST

Agriculture All about

Four generations of

Rothfork turkey pride Melrose growers share tips, recipes for Thanksgiving

The spatchcocking method of baking a turkey (below) entails the backbone cut out of the turkey using a heavy kitchen knife, and the turkey is laid out on a pan. This way the thighs and breast bake evenly.

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

“All my life,” is Pete Rothfork’s answer Nov. 2 when asked how long he has eaten turkey. His grandson, Peyton Linn, smiles as he sits across the desk from him at Melrose Feed Mill, which ideally is located on Turkey Lane, a designation in Melrose since 2005.

“Growing up, turkey was on the table quite often,” Rothfork said. “We also had a regular Thanksgiving meal at least once a month.”

Linn, 21, likes turkey also. That is a good thing because as the feed mill manager and overseer of the eight turkey farms Melrose Feed Mill owns, it is his lifeline, much like it has been for 50 of Rothfork’s 67 years. Rothfork is presiPHOTOS BY CAROL MOORMAN dent and chief executive of- Pete Rothfork (left) and grandson Peyton Linn display a grilled white and dark turkey ficer. Along with Linn, the roast Nov. 2 outside Melrose Feed Mill in Melrose. Grilling turkey is one of their favorite three other family members ways to prepare turkey. involved in the business are “That was our 15 minRothfork’s nephews, Pat utes of fame,” Rothfork said Rothfork and Shane and smiling.

Ryan Wilhelm.

He explains the Nation“We have a transition al Turkey Federation presplan,” Rothfork said. ident receives the honor of Rothfork’s father, choosing where the turkey Harold, and Frank Maleis raised, and in 2005 Rothska erected a feed mill in 1959. The Rothforks started fork was president. The two raising turkeys in 1964, and chosen turkeys — one for Pete joined the business in the presentation and one as a spare — were given the 1972. That makes Linn a fourth generation of Roth- fitting Minnesota names forks working in the turkey Snowball and Blizzard.

This year’s presidential industry. turkey is from Christenson Like his grandfather, Farms in Minnesota, as Linn, son of Jessica Westchosen by this year’s NTF brock and Kyle Linn, was President Steve Lykken, six or seven when he first Jennie-O-Turkey Store walked into a turkey barn president. with his father. Little did Growing up, Linn liked Linn, an Albany Area High agriculture-related advenSchool graduate, know 15 tures and attended Ridgeyears later he would be working with turkeys full- water College in Willmar focusing on agriculture, time. specifically poultry and “In kindergarten, they asked us what we wanted to completed an internship at be when we grow up, and I Melrose Feed Mill. said a turkey farmer,” Linn “Six months later I said. started working full-time in Linn was around age the office,” he said.

5 when he traveled to It has been a perfect fit Melrose Feed Mill employee Bonnie Theiler displays the turkey wild rice soup she made Nov. 2 at the mill in Freeport.

Washington, D.C., with his for him, as he learns from Turkey is rich in protein and vitamins and has a hearty dose grandparents, Pete and Patti his mentor — Grandpa of phosphorus for strong bones and teeth, according to the Rothfork, and his sister, Pete.

Minnesota Turkey Growers Association.

Paige, when a turkey from That includes how to one of the Rothfork’s farms prepare turkey. was presented to then PresOutside the building, on Inside, is a slow cooker “It’s nutritious and ident George W. Bush as Nov. 2, a 10-pound white with turkey wild rice soup delicious,” Rothfork said of the national Thanksgiving and dark turkey roast is in made by employee Bonnie turkey. turkey. the final stages of grilling.

Theiler.

“It’s healthy,” Linn

Turkey Wild Rice Soup • 2 pounds cubed turkey breast • 1/2 cup diced onion • 1 pkg. mushrooms • 1 cup diced celery • 4 tablespoons butter • 1/2 cup chicken base

• 2 cups wild rice • 1 can cream of chicken soup • 1 can cream of mushroom soup • 1 pounds Velveeta cheese

Saute turkey, onions, mushrooms and celery in butter, adding a little water. Cook wild rice according to package directions. Combine ingredients in a slow cooker and simmer for six hours, adding Velveeta cheese after three hours.

added.

Turkey is on the table “quite often,” Rothfork said and always for holidays like Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Rothfork is the cook in their family, while Patti is the baker. He mentions some turkey products, including turkey breast, roasts, tenderloins, ground turkey, drumsticks and, of course, whole turkeys.

Most turkeys raised at the Rothfork farms are processed at Turkey Valley Farms, Inc., a co-op in Marshall, with some birds sold to Jennie-O-Turkey Store.

“I just love cooking a whole bird. I cook everything on a Traeger,” Rothfork said. “I start it out low and smoke it for two-and -a-half to three hours, and it’s perfect.”

When preparing a Thanksgiving turkey, he bakes it the Saturday before, cuts it up and puts turkey pieces in a Ziploc bag with gravy and freezes it. The night before Thanksgiving he puts the bag in the refrigerator, and Thanksgiving morning he puts the cut up turkey in a

Turkey Pot Pie Biscuit Skillet • 3 cups turkey, cooked, shredded • 2 tablespoons butter • 1/2 medium onion, diced • 1 cup carrots, chopped • 1 cup green beans, cut

• 1/2 cup corn • 1/2 cup celery, chopped • 2 teaspoon minced garlic • 1/4 cup flour • 1/2 tablespoon thyme • 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper • 2 cups broth • 1/2 cup milk • 1 cup frozen peas • 1 can biscuits

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a 10 inch skillet over medium heat on the stove top. Add onion, carrots, green beans, corn and celery and cook until tender. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Whisk in flour, thyme, salt and black pepper and cook for about four minutes. Gradually whisk in the broth and milk until the mixture is thickened, smooth and bubbly. Add frozen peas and turkey; cook until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside. Cut each biscuit into fours. Place each piece of biscuit over the turkey pot pie filling, leaving 1/2 inch between biscuits. Bake in a preheated oven for 20 minutes or until biscuits are lightly golden brown. Let sit for seven minutes before eating.

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roaster for baking to 165 degrees.

Rothfork has a tip for ensuring turkey meat remains moist.

“Sometimes by the time the thighs are done, the breast is overcooked, which can make turkey meat dry,” he said.

He suggests cutting the backbone out of the turkey — called spatchcocking — using a heavy kitchen knife and laying the turkey out on a pan for baking.

“That way the thighs and breast cook evenly,” he said.

Last year was the first time Linn tried the spatchcocking method, and he was hooked.

Rothfork is already planning this year’s Thanksgiving menu, including side dishes like his grandmother’s recipe Armaline’s Corn, pecan pie, a new dish, cheesy spinach — and, of course, the main entree turkey.

As family gather around the table Thanksgiving Day, they will be grateful for an industry that has provided them with a good life — and turkey — for four generations.

Armaline’s Corn • 2 cans cream corn • 3 cups sweet corn (or 2 cans) • 6 slices crisp bacon • 1/2 small onion • 2 teaspoons pepper • 2 tablespoons butter Cook bacon until crisp and chop. Chop onion and cook in butter in a saute pan until translucent. Add corn. Stir in bacon and pepper. Adjust pepper to your taste.

NEWS

Page 4 | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | THE STAR POST

Costumed Special Olympics

OBITUARY Albert B. Rodenwald

b wling party

Albert B. “Sonny” Rodenwald, 84, of Albany, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, Nov. 1, 2023, at his home in Albany.

A Mass of Christian Burial was Nov. 7 at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany with the Rev. Mark Stang officiating and the Rev. Julius Beckermann, O.S.B., Albert B. Rodenwald concelebrating. Entombment was at the parish cemetery.

Albert Bernard Catholic United Financial 400.

Rodenwald was born Dec. Survivors include his wife, 5, 1938, in Albany to Alfred Diane Rodenwald of Albany; and Johanna (Renneker) children Brian Rodenwald of Rodenwald. He attended Deadwood, South Dakota, school in Albany. He was Deborah Smith of Burtrum, united in marriage to Diane Terri Rodenwald of Kelly Tiemann April 6, 1961, at St. Lake and Ross Rodenwald of Mary’s Catholic Church in Freeport; five grandchildren; Melrose. nine great-grandchildren; three Sonny worked for D.H. great-great-grandchildren; Blattner Energy for 30 years and siblings Vonnie in Avon and farmed the family vonBrauchitsch of Granite Bay, PHOTOS BY CAROL MOORMAN farm in Albany until 1968. California, Sharon Schmitt of Joe Wilwerding (front, from left) and Joe Hennen; (back) He worked on the Kaw Dam Avon, Marlys Backes of Avon, athlete Lisa Sanders gather in front of Sauk Centre-Melrose in Ponca City, Oklahoma, Floyd Rodenwald of Albany Golden Eagles Special Olympics bowlers Oct. 29 during their from 1968 to 1970 before and Linda Maples of Isle.

Halloween party at Melrose Bowl in Melrose. Wilwerding moving back to Albany for Sonny was preceded in and Hennen judged athletes wearing costumes during two the remainder of his life. death by his parents, Alfred sessions of bowling.

He enjoyed farming and and Johanna; infant grandson, collecting antique tractors and Lucas Allen; brother-in-law, farm equipment, especially Dennis vonBrauchitsch; and IH-Farmall. He also enjoyed sisters-in-law, Barbara Salzl, participating in tractor pull Cathy Koopmeiners and tank from the U.S. Army competitions.

Adeline Tiemann.

Tank-Automotive and Sonny was a life-long Arrangements were made Armaments Command. The member of Seven Dolors with Patton-Schad Funeral from front Melrose City Council on Catholic Church in Albany, the and Cremation Services of Oct. 17, 1996, authorized Local 49, Knights of Columbus Melrose.

“It was dedicated in the Melrose VFW to pursue P-45-1B Father Pierz Council 3628 and 1950 to all area veterans getting a M60A3 Army and to a lasting peace and tank and to place it on the bears the names of service- memorial park grounds. men from this area who The tank they received gave their lives in service of entered military service the country,” Athmann said. in 1960 and was last used The tank was installed BRIEFS in the Persian Gulf War in in June of 1998.

1990 and 1991. It had a “Ralph Fischbach, crew of four, one 105 MM Winter clothing, food drive Ralph ‘Curly’ Wiehoff, main gun and two mounted Lyle Olmscheid and Mike until Nov. 13 in Avon machine guns. It weighs AVON — Lumber One Avon is collecting food shelf Braegelmann worked very 57.3 tons, is 22.6 feet long donations of new and gently used winter clothing and out- hard to get the tank here,” and 10.7 feet tall and has erwear and non-perishable food for the Avon community. Athmann said of the longa 750-horsepower diesel time VFW members, now Items can be dropped off until Nov. 13 at Lumber One engine. Its top speed is 30 deceased.

Avon, 101 Second St. NW, Avon. mph and can travel 298 The process started miles on one tank of diesel. in 1996 to find a military The tank was at Camp Hat, mitten drive

Veterans

NEWS

(Below) Elaine Zenzen, with assistance from Ron Butkowski, uses a ramp to bowl during the Oct. 29 Sauk CentreMelrose Golden Eagles Special Olympics Halloween party at Melrose Bowl in Melrose. Bowlers were encouraged to dress up and were judged on their costumes.

Ripley and was transported to Melrose by Anderson Trucking at a cost of $1,250. Records indicate the total cost for the tank project was $4,777.80. The VFW also had to pay for the demilitarization services and for a new paint job not to exceed the cost of $3,443.

The motor was removed and the covers were welded tight before placement behind the monument.

Athmann said the memorial’s newest addition of statues, at a cost of $6,750, was the idea of Vern Frericks who found a company in St. Joseph that made military statues. On Oct. 25 post members installed the statues.

Athmann said while it is the Melrose VFW that makes improvements to the memorial, their hope is it continues with other veteran organizations since it is called the Melrose Veterans Memorial.

“We don’t want to forget about the sacrifices that all veterans have given to our country and especially the ones that gave the ultimate sacrifice,” Athmann said. “We owe so much to all veterans, past and present, serving here in the United States and also in foreign countries and their families for all the sacrifices they face day to day.”

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Kosik from front “They emphasized a lot of fairness, accuracy and good writing skills,” Kosik said.

While Kosik was wellversed as a writer and eager to jump in and contribute wherever need be, finding jobs was a challenge when he finished up his academics in 1972. He spent the summer fulfilling his military obligations at Fort Benning (now named Fort Moore) in Georgia before realigning his focus on finding the next step in his journalism career.

One day, he found it.

“I started applying for jobs, and I saw an ad in the Minneapolis Star, before they combined into the Star Tribune, for an opening up here in central Minnesota,” Kosik said. “I interviewed for the position and got it.”

The newspaper Kosik first called home was the Stearns-Morrison Enterprise, owned by Don and Carole Larson, fellow Golden Gopher graduates and well-renowned figures in Minnesota’s vast history of community journalism. Out of their headquarters at the Osseo-Maple Grove Press, the Larsons believed in what Kosik could offer to the Enterprise’s readership area, which reached as far north as Swanville and as far south as Richmond.

“They (the Larsons) put a lot of faith in me,” Kosik said. “They were headquartered in Osseo, and I went down there every Saturday to lay out the paper. My work week started Tuesdays and went through Saturday, but you usually ended up working Monday, too.”

For the well-intentioned reporter, it was an eye-opening experience covering five school districts in Swanville,

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Mike Kosik writes up a story at his computer Nov. 2 at The Star Post office in Albany. Kosik writes general news stories and sports articles about the Albany Huskies and Holdingford Huskies athletic programs.

Upsala, Rocori, Holdingford and Albany to go with city council updates and general news. The responsibilities placed on his shoulders as a journalist providing factual information about the happenings of several towns was a big one.

“It became very busy because we covered such a wide area,” Kosik said.

“It was trying to do everything and the challenge of introducing myself. ... It was pretty overwhelming at times.”

However, Kosik embraced the chance to familiarize himself with any community member he came across and quickly developed a fond connection with his newfound locale.

Within weeks of being hired, he found an apartment in Albany.

“It felt good being a member of the community,” he said. “It was two weeks after I started working here that I ended up renting an apartment here. I didn’t think of it any other way; it was important I resided in the community I worked.”

His reliability and accu-

racy helped him develop a strong reputation, and soon, Kosik became the editor of the Melrose Beacon, a title he held for over two decades. It was another test to his ever-evolving idea of what it meant to serve as a community journalist.

“You can’t please everybody,” he said. “It’s a challenge to be fair and accurate, and I think (some) people feel I’m not or I’ve failed, so you always listen and ask yourself, ‘Could I have done better? Was I not as fair as I should have been?’ You have to say, ‘If you’re doing the best you can, you have to keep doing it.’”

Kosik represented the Stearns-Morrison Enterprise until 1999, when the newspaper was sold to American Community Newspaper Inc. After a little over a decade under this ownership, Star Publications bought the Albany Enterprise and Melrose Beacon in 2010, and Kosik has remained with the publishing company ever since.

Another hard-to-miss aspect of Kosik’s career is his sports coverage. For his entire career, he was also a

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sports reporter and photographer, attending sporting events and capturing athletic moments on scales large and small. The first state tournament he covered was for the Rocori girls basketball team in the late 1970s, with many more following that one as Kosik highlighted athletes playing their favorite sports under the brightest lights.

However, it did not have to be a state-caliber season to excite Kosik, who finds joy every time he grabs his camera to cover a competition.

“I can honestly say I enjoy every single sport I cover,” Kosik said. “As long as I’ve done it, it seems there’s always something a little bit different.”

Kosik has also impacted his community in other ways, having served as a member of the Albany Lions Club for over four decades, including over 30 years as secretary.

“Being a part of the Lions gives me an opportunity to give back to the community,” he said.

Starting in 2011, Kosik shifted into a part-time role with Star Publications, turning most of his newswriting attention toward Albany Huskies and Holdingford Huskers sports. While his position at both The Star Post has changed over time, his love and devotion to maintaining a high regard for community journalism has not.

“I can’t think of a single coach or athletic director I didn’t get along with,” he said. “They were all great people to work with and it was rewarding for me that they were appreciative of what the newspaper was doing. That, more than anything, has made the job enjoyable. It makes you want to keep doing it. That’s why I do it.”

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MELROSE — Now through Nov. 17, North Risk Partners is collecting new and gently used hats and mittens. Donations can be brought to 411 Main St. E, Melrose.

The hats and mittens will be donated to the Melrose Area Food Shelf.

OPINION

THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | Page 5

Time well spent

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.

Home for the holidays

The last pumpkin shaped Reese’s has been She’s coming home for the holiday. handed out to trick-or-treaters. The candy corn The momma in me is pleased — pleased is gone. The jack-o-lanterns are sinking into she values family, that she doesn’t want a themselves. Some say, as we turn the calendar “Friendsgiving” with her roommates but to November, the holiday season officially dinner with her grandparents and cousins. begins. I’m not sure I agree; however, we have I’m pleased she’s desperate to come home. I been talking about the holidays in our house want her home, too.

— specifically about working on Thanksgiving I’m not sure her solution is ethical, and Christmas. though. And it may cost me if she doesn’t Growing up on a dairy farm, working on land another job and needs help paying the holidays was a given. Not even a convertuition. She plans to tell her boss she won’t sation. Dad milked cows twice a day, holiday The Farmers Daughter work on Thanksgiving, and if that means her or no holiday. We opened Christmas gifts after boss can no longer employ her, she underBy Sonya Hoffarth milking and chores and after Mom’s egg bake stands. As she says, every restaurant in Fargo brunch. Santa was already taking his long is hiring. She’s a good server with experiafternoon nap before we touched our pile of gifts. ence. She’ll get a different job after Christmas, because Thanksgiving and Easter were much the same. The she’s not missing Christmas at home to wait tables either. work didn’t go away. And we never felt it was an injusI’m left debating. Is she right? My dad worked every tice, unfair or unwarranted. Now, however, as a mother holiday until he retired. We never thought it should be of teenagers working part-time for minimum wage pay, any other way. But I’m skeptical about restaurants and I’m struggling to sort out my feelings about working on stores opening on holidays, especially when I consider the holidays. Hallie works as a server at a restaurant in Fargo. majority of the employees keeping that business open that She works evenings and weekends, which means she can day are teenagers working for minimum wage. Shouldn’t rarely come home. Which is fine. She has to pay for rent, those teenagers be home with their family? for tuition and for the occasional night out, coffee run As a farmer’s daughter, I certainly understand and and pizza. She’s defining herself and developing indevalue hard work, discipline and sacrifice. My farm uppendence away from home. When she gets homesick, we bringing also instilled family values. Dad worked holvisit her. It works and is probably good for her. idays, but he never missed them. And I certainly could However, Hallie wants to come home for Thanksgivhave joined him in the barn if I wanted. Dad would not ing, but she may have to work. She wants to be home for have turned down the help.

Christmas too, but she may have to work.

As a momma of teenagers, I want them home. Our I offered to host Thanksgiving a weekend later so she kids get only so many holidays as a kid. I believe in sacricould work the holiday and celebrate Thanksgiving. I can fice and hard work, but I think I’ll be encouraging Hallie baste a bird any weekend. But she said no thanks. She’s to be polite when she tells her boss she’ll be coming getting this independence thing down. She said she’s not home. going to work, regardless of what her boss says.

Just like no two deer hunts are the same, neither are any two preparations the same for the season ahead.

Each new hunting season requires a certain amount of work and planning to reach a successful outcome. There is preseason scouting one must do. There is stand placement, target practice, even clothing Ink on My Hands and scent preparedness. One

by Kevin Zierden fall, deer that had become familiar to us are taken from the area, while the next fall, a whole new generation of bucks and does move in. Deer habits change and it’s important we recognize that and change with them.

I waited until last week to prepare my gun stand for this year’s hunt. I usually postpone this time until most of the leaves have fallen from the trees in order to get a better picture of what my shooting lanes look like. I was surprised at how the scenery had changed. A fallen tree here, a few missing branches there and suddenly I have more open shooting lanes to see through. Where last year I had 15 feet or so of open range to take a shot, this year it seems to have doubled.

Directly in front of my stand, I only needed to trim a couple of higher branches in order to open a whole new line of sight. Off to my right, where last season a couple of newly downed trees blocked my view, this year those same trees were lower, rotting or sinking below shooting opportunities. Behind me, the deer had worn a new trail, heading into open space downed trees provided. And to my left, mature trees either completely blocked or stunted any new growth, so I was able, with a little weed whacking, to open a sight line 45 yards out. If I could get a deer to stop or pause in that opening, I might get a decent shot.

There has always been a well-worn trail directly below my stand. It was the reason I put the stand up in that location in the first place. Then a couple of years ago, a downed tree farther up the trail changed the deer movements, and the trail shifted a few yards away from me. That also created a couple of lesser worn trails the deer began to use. Although in the past few years none of those have looked too promising, this year they look better than ever.

The trails that are visible from my stand seem to intersect directly in front of me. It appears this year the deer are congregating at the overlap of the trails before heading in different directions. Combine that with the new sight lines I have, and it looks as promising as any in the past few years of seeing and harvesting a deer from my stand.

Once leaves fall and grasses die, deer trails in the woods become more distinctive. As the rut starts, scrapes and rubs along the trails are much more prevalent. Deer patterns and hunter readiness need to go hand-in-hand this time of year to produce the results we are looking for. Any reliance on luck or good fortune should not be necessary. If God would like to add that, however, I would not turn it down. It is, after all, religious, it’s rousing, it’s firearms deer season 2024.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Equality needed in sports

Starting with a straight furrow

One of the many challenges facing early about the plow is anxious to see it.” settlers in the area was the land.

The Hansmann model was Minnesota in In and around the Melrose and Freeport origin. It was developed by Paul Hansmann and areas were lowlands and bluffs, forests and Herman Strack of Long Prairie. Strack designed prairies and lakes and hills. It was part of Minand patented a steering system for the plow, nesota where the prairies met the forest. helping to maintain a straighter furrow. HansClearing trees for tillable land was only mann manufactured it. the first part. Once cleared, the land needed The Oct. 20, 1923, demonstration was a sucto be tilled, which required plowing. Earlier cess. It drew more people than anticipated, and A Peek at the Past another demonstration was held. But it wasn’t settlers could count on a wealth of tradition and knowledge going back thousands of years. by Herman Lensing only local residents who attended the demonThere are references to plowing in the Bible stration or were impressed with the potential and a host of folklore and passed on wisdom on how to of the steering mechanism. About one month after the plow. When 19th century newcomers to the area started demonstration, a Nov. 18, 1923, front page story in the tilling soil, they pretty much had three types. The single Melrose Beacon, quoting information from the Long Praibottom plow, often depicted in shows dealing with the rie Leader, announced the plow manufactures were going pioneers, was generally pulled by animals and required a out of business as Hansmann had, “Closed a deal last strong hand to keep it in line and straight in the ground. week in Minneapolis whereby he sold his farm machinery The sulky plow was developed in the 1870s. Constructed patents.” of iron, it had wheels, levels for better control and a seat The article went on to say Strack was receiving, “subfor the driver. It still had just one blade. Gang plows, stantial compensation for his interest in the patents.” which came along later, had at least two and, occasionThe manufacturing of the plows was to go to New ally, up to four moldboards. They grew in popularity York. Hansmann was reported to be going there to work because multiple furrows could be plowed. with Universal Tillers. The move meant the plows would No matter which plow was used, there was a desire no longer be made in Minnesota. to produce straight furrows. It became a selling point for “The local factory will go out of business but will be plow manufacturers. devoted to the manufacture of the Hansmann corn huskIn 1923, one such plow was to be demonstrated at a er,” the article reported.

Freeport farm. An ad, taken out by the Freeport Farmers This area has long been known for production of its Co. proclaimed, “The Hansmann gang plow is the most quality of agricultural products and livestock. It should be talked about plow on the market today. It has features remembered it has also been key to the beginning stages no other plow has and everybody that has heard or read of crop planting.

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Michael and Susan Gully, Albany At the end of their last Albany-Avon Soccer Club practice of the 2023 fall season, the 12U boys team played against the girls team with members of the same age. Both teams fought a great match with outstanding ability and great endurance. Both teams ran extremely hard to move that ball toward the goal.

But currently only one of those teams will have the opportunity to advance to the high school varsity level.

And it’s not because of skill, talent or number of games won.

With approval from the Albany Area School Board, this fall marked the second year for junior varsity girls soccer and the first year for varsity. That is wonderful!

However, boys junior varsity/varsity soccer has not even been approved at the committee level. The reason is unclear.

After the finance committee decided against boys soccer, the Albany-Avon Soccer Club created a proposal to self-fund the program 100%. They presented this proposal to the athletics and activities committee.

A week later the club was told the committee did not recommend boys soccer. When reaching out to the committee members for explanation, the club received no reply.

Now, the boys soccer team is on the agenda for the Nov. 8 school board meeting. The Albany-Avon Soccer Club Board said they were told there will be multiple questions and believe these questions are to set the stage for votes for no. Undeterred, they said they already solved the issues of space, busing and budget.

This issue is about more than soccer. It is about equality, honesty and transparency.

We are overjoyed the girls soccer team has the ability to compete at the varsity level. Let’s let the boys have the same opportunity. We encourage you to contact school board members.

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

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NEWS

Page 6 | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | THE STAR POST

OPINION

Albany council authorizes County researching solar arrays, County Road 157 preliminary report state aid project for us, with a contractor could do the elections, new jail City will participate in sidewalk, utility, a little bit longer timeline,” removal work.

I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Halloween even though you might have had to bundle the children up more.

The next event coming up we all should be a part of is Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11. Stearns County buildings will be illuminated green Nov. 6-12 to show support for veterans. We encourage you to do the same and light your home or business green. Also, please Commissioner’s join in one or more Veterans Corner

by Steve Notch Day events in the area and make sure to thank a veteran for their service to our country. Not everyone is willing to step up and do this and we should appreciate those who are willing to enlist and help make sure we all can feel safer.

As more 1 megawatt solar arrays are being submitted to the county, especially in the area close to the large Paynesville area substation, your county commissioners have recommended a meeting to discuss if we should make changes to our current ordinance to ensure we are doing justice to both sides of the issue. One suggestion is to have them go through the planning commission before being approved administratively. Currently, any solar array of 1 megawatt or less is done administratively with no notification to the local unit of government, such as a township and there is no planning commission action. Another suggestion is to modify the current language requiring pollinators be planted in and around solar arrays to also allow grazing as an option. Screening has also been an issue as there is guidance on what is permissible, but most of the solar arrays have screening that will take years to grow tall enough to block the view. An option would be to specify the minimum height needed at the beginning of the project or maybe have vining plants that attach quickly to the fencing around the arrays. If anyone has other ideas, please feel free to reach out to me or one of the other commissioners with your ideas.

We also must remember property owners do have property rights, and if they don’t infringe on another person’s rights or violate any local, county or state ordinance they can do with their property as they wish, including leasing a portion for a solar array.

We had a presentation from the auditor-treasurer’s office on the 2024 elections and new state law changes and what new electronic voting machines will be required to provide. As this will be a presidential election, county staff will continue to be very diligent in ensuring all elections are conducted fairly and accurately as they have done in previous years.

Elections are a huge time commitment by the staff in this department since Stearns County tends to have a very high voter turnout. Voting is a civic duty we should all be engaged in and each of us can make a difference. Educating our youth on the importance of voting should be a priority as they will help create the future direction not only nationally but locally.

Lastly, your county board approved a resolution accepting special state legislation that allows the county to ask November 2024 general election voters whether they want to approve a .375% sales tax to fund a new jail/justice center for Stearns County.

The county needs to build a new jail. Using a sales tax will take the funding burden solely off of Stearns County property taxpayers. It is estimated 50% of the revenue generated through a sales tax would come from non-Stearns County residents. Half of the people who are in our jail and use court services also come from outside the county. One of the decisions your county board must make is whether the facility should be kept downtown or moved to a green space to allow for future expansion. Another decision is whether the project should include not only the jail but also the sheriff’s office and court services. The price difference we were quoted would range from $275 million to move to a green space to around $325 million to renovate downtown if the full project is done. Downtown would be more expensive because the county would need to purchase existing businesses and demolish those buildings. As in the past, more to come and your opinions are appreciated.

You can reach me at 320-248-3605 or steve. notch@stearnscountymn.gov.

storm sewer improvements on Railroad Avenue Teich said. “That would not

BY TIM HENNAGIR | STAFF WRITER

Albany city leaders have ordered a Stearns County Road 157/Railroad Avenue project feasibility report.

The report represents the first step in possible city assessment of work to adjacent property owners.

Stearns County Highway Engineer Jodi Teich and city engineer Jeremy Mathiasen provided background about the 2024 project at a Nov. 1 council meeting at Albany City Hall in Albany.

The city will be responsible for preparing construction plans for utility improvements and curb, gutter and sidewalk on the north side of Railroad Avenue.

The feasibility study will cover properties in the Eighth Street to 14th Street area, Mathiasen said.

Teich estimated the city’s share of the county project would be about $663,000.

“This is a very rough, preliminary and conservative estimate, because we haven’t gotten the final project design,” she said.

Mathiasen said about 25 residents attended the county’s Oct. 17 public information meeting at city hall.

Teich said a north side Railroad Avenue sidewalk would extend and connect to the Lake Wobegon Trail.

“Curb and gutter would be a city cost, and, obviously, the sidewalk would be as well,” Teich said.

The county and the city can use two Minnesota Department of Transportation programs for project funding.

MnDOT’s Local Road Improvement Program provides funding assistance to local agencies to construct or reconstruct local roads.

Non-state aid cities with populations less than 5,000 and townships must request the sponsorship of a county to apply for and implement their project.

MnDOT’s Active Transportation Program provides grants and technical assistance to increase the number of people walking and biking to destinations within communities. The program also provides funding support for planning, education and encouragement, engineering studies and infrastructure investment.

“If you use the LRIP, it would turn the project into a

cover sewer and water, but anything related to roadway costs, such as sidewalks, up to $1.5 million. That’s one option. The county can help with that application.”

The ATP would cover curb and gutter and sidewalk because the project would promote walking traffic from Lake Wobegon Trail into downtown Albany, Teich said.

She told city leaders both state programs require an approved council resolution before Dec. 8.

“The reason we have the curb and gutter going to 14th Street is to try and minimize the impact to the parking lots on the north side of road between 14th and the Lake Wobegon Trail,” Teich said. “That seems like the best fit with the least amount of impact to the business on the north side of the road.”

Mayor Tom Kasner said the topic of sidewalk snow removal came up during the county’s Oct. 17 open house.

Mathiasen said residents are concerned about getting county road snow removed.

Kasner said the city talked about adding snow removal in its sidewalk system, but there wasn’t a determination if staff or

“We are just going to have to figure that out,” Kasner said.

Possible designation of a truck route was another issue.

“There were a lot of comments about designating a truck route during the Oct. 17 meeting,” Teich said.

In general, Stearns County isn’t going to say trucks can’t be on its roads, she said.

In other areas, the county encourages trucks to take different routes that go through a residential area of a given city.

“There was a significant amount of discussion and probably two or three residents who talked about that,” she said. “That was probably one of the main points that came up during the public meeting.”

Public works supervisor Joe Mergen said about 10 years ago, the city of Albany tried to get trucks to stay off of Shamrock Lane in the city and stay on the county road. That did not work out well, Mergen said. Interim city administrator Tom Schneider said trucks making a left turn off of Intestate 94 onto Shamrock can not make a left turn effectively because traffic keeps coming south on Highway 238.

Albany council considers one-time public safety aid City leaders, police, fire chief discuss $122,613 from state

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

Albany will receive approximately $122,613 in state public safety aid later this year.

Police chief Ozzie Carbajal and fire chief Gary Winkels participated in a Nov. 1 city council discussion at Albany City Hall in Albany that focused on how that money should be allocated.

Minnesota cities will receive the one-time public safety funding Dec. 26.

Interim city administrator Tom Schneider recommended during the meeting Albany’s police department receive the entire amount allocated by the state. However, during discussion, Schneider recommended the council also recognize the fire department’s eligibility for state dollars.

“The council can decide

(how this is allocated), but the fire department has many other sources of funding throughout the year,” Schneider said, referring to money raised via charitable gambling, bingo, a golf tournament and other events.

Carbajal said during the last five years, the city council has cut his capital improvement plan.

The use of one-time public safety aid could allow him to put $50,000 to $65,000 into a CIP for future needs, Carbajal said.

“I love the fire department, but they have the ability to fundraise and do over $100,000 a year,” Carbajal said. “The police department doesn’t have that option. The ability to get this unexpected money could put the police department in a position where we will be set for quite a long time with certain things.”

Carbajal said if he needs a new squad car or piece of equipment, he comes directly to the council and makes an expenditure request.

He said the department tallied a lot of overtime

hours in the last six months due to an officer shortage.

In the last three months, there was spending on training.

“This money represents an opportunity to jump ahead on our schedule with certain things I want to get done,” Carbajal said. “When we used to talk about budget cuts, the police department always came first. I need a new radio ($5,000), and we need a new squad car. We also need to upgrade some of our weapons.”

Schneider said the council needed to think about the public safety aid before its December meetings.

Mayor Tom Kasner said he understood Carbajal’s position regarding the police budget, but the fire department also needed consideration and communication regarding the onetime public safety aid.

Winkels said he and Carbajal had a discussion regarding possible uses of aid dollars.

“The fire department gets Federal Emergency Management Agency grants

and a lot of other things,” Winkels said. “Do I agree with giving all of the funding to the police department? No, but I know there will be a lot of firefighters who will probably be upset because they put a lot of work into volunteering.”

Kasner said it was important for the city council to communicate its reasoning for making a funding decision involving the onetime state aid.

“Our police chief is nearing retirement, and he wants to make sure things are set up,” Kasner said.

“We don’t need to make this decision right now, but we do need to think about it.”

Kasner asked if fire department members were aware of the one-time state aid.

“We really haven’t talked about it,” Winkels said. “We have a meeting Wednesday, Nov. 8. I’ll make sure to let them know.

We are very fortunate right now with Firefighter I and Firefighter II. The state is picking up that training cost for us.”

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SPORTS/ NEWS

THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | Page 7

A community area to work out Central MN Elite Wrestling opens in Avon

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

The former Dahlin’s Grocery Store in Avon looked nothing like it used to Nov. 2 as Central MN Elite Wrestling members renovated its interior. Gone are shelves, counters and aisles, as it becomes a wrestling workout space.

“We have 50-feet by PHOTO BY HERMAN LENSING 100-feet and 84 by 42 mats,” Central MN Elite Wrestling board members Patrick Jonas (from left), Samantha Jonas, Colin said Gary Rakotz, one of the Fisher, Anita Heitzman, Gary Rakotz and David Heitzman gather with their sign Nov. 2 before it is hung at their building in Avon. It contains a community workout area with the focus on six board members, along with Pat and Samantha Jonas, martial arts, particularly wrestling.

David and Anita Heitzman and Colin Fisher. after school. They are hoping “Ramler Trucking donat“Our first open mat Community members to get a few volunteers from ed the trucks, trailer and time session is Nov. 21,” Anita saw what is being planned residents in the community to haul them here,” Rakotz Heitzman said. “We will have and promoted as a communi- and at St. John’s University. said. some sessions before our first ty workout area during a Nov. CMEW already has a The mats are just one open mat night.”

7 open house. good relationship with SJU. element of the remodeling.

Rakotz sees CMEW as “It’s for kids primari“That’s where we “We have another phase growing something he feels ly, but also others from the acquired the mats from,” planned,” Patrick Jonas said. already exists in the area — community,” said Samantha Samantha Jonas said.

“We want to add a parent good wrestling.

Jonas who envisions the area “Students from St. John’s viewing room. In the base“There is a lot of potenbeing used by karate clubs, helped us load the mats, then ment, we want to have a tial here,” Rakotz said. “Our yoga programs and other drove here and helped us weight room and sauna and goal is retention. Kids draw physical activities. unload them and bring them showers.” kids. Two bring four and four The main focus will inside,” Rakotz said.

Those additions will bring eight. We really have a be martial arts, particularly When the mats needed to come later. Currently, they lot of good talent.” wrestling. CMEW will offer be transported, a community are preparing the main floor CMEW is ready to serve different classes and have member stepped up. for their first sessions. that talent. coaches for various wrestlers.

“We will run private lessons, organize practices and have open mat activities,” Pat Jonas said.

Rakotz, Fisher and Pat Jonas will serve as coaches.

There is some solid experience in that trio.

Pat Jonas worked with Rakotz and Fisher at the Huskie Pup wrestling program as coaches. Fisher was the 2013 Class AAA 285-pound state wrestling champion at Eagan High School and is an alumnus of St. John’s PHOTO SUBMITTED University wrestling. Rakotz, Some members of the Melrose High School Class of 1978 — Shelly (Spaeth) Mehr (front, 1996 Albany graduate, set a from left), Joe Cruz, Joan (Orth) Kempernich, Deb (Mayers) Rassier, Pat (Brickweg) Molitor, career mark of 137 wins at Bernice (Meemken) Gruber and Karen (Wiebolt) Sunderman; (middle, from left) Joe Leukam, Albany Area Schools. It was Ron Middendorf, Jan (Welle) Woeste, Steve Olmscheid, Brenda (Welle) Posch, Kathie (Seitz) Dugger, Jeff Bertram, Mary (Berling) Ramacher, Mary Kay (Hoppe) Herkenhoff, Leah Meyer and surpassed in 2013 by Gabe Debbie (Frank) Hellermann; and (back, from left) Pete Kerfeld, John Beste, Jon Molitor, Cheryl Zierden’s 142 wins.

Hinnenkamp and Connie Zierden — gather Oct. 14 at Meadowlark Country Club in Melrose for “My goal is to help their 45th class reunion. There were 219 graduates in the class, and 19 are deceased, including coach the kid who breaks Jeron Frieler, Sheila (Atkinson) Madeson, Kevin Lieser, Chuck Eickhoff, Dana Olmscheid, Kathy that record,” Rakotz said Groetsch, Neil Rademacher, Ann (Pohlmann) Henderson, Paul Hiltner, Fred grinning. “Our main focus is (Petermeier) Olmscheid, Ruth (Maus) Elstad, Joyce Schmidt, Chuck VanHavermaet, Joan (Marthaler) Gerads, youth wrestling. We want to Larry Goebel, Rick Rieland, June (Duclos) Domine, Bob Kuhl and Joe Davis. Not pictured was Jeff have different coaches.”

Braegelmann.

Those lessons will be

Melrose Class of 1978 gathers for 45th reunion

Public N O T I C E S Albany Area Schools Albany, Minnesota 56307 Administration Office Telephone 320/845-2171 – FAX 320/201-5878 REGULAR SCHOOL BOARD MEETING Albany Area Schools – ISD #745 District Board Room 30 Forest Ave Albany, Minnesota 56307 November 8, 2023, 6:00 PM AG E ND A 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Public Forum 4. Agenda -- Additions and Deletions 5. Approvals 1. Previous Meeting Minutes 2. Cash Flow Reports 3. Acceptance of Gifts and Donations 6. Consent Agenda 7. Reports 1. Purple Pride 8. Business 1. Enrollment Report 2. Approval of 2023 Annual Financial Statements 3. Revised 2023-2024 Budget Approval 4. Consideration of Adding Boys’ Soccer as a MSHSL Sport 1. Self Funded/Traditional 5. Transportation Request for Proposal Approval 6. Resolution of Governing Board Supporting Form A Application to MSHSL Foundation 7. Resolution of Governing Board Supporting Form B Application to MSHSL Foundation

NOTICE FULL-TIME POSITION OPENING CITY OF ALBANY “Public Works Dept. Assistant” The City of Albany is seeking a self-motivated, energetic individual for a full-time position in the Public Works Department. The primary purpose of the position is to perform mechanical work for the various functions of the Public Works Department. At times may direct the work of lower-ranked public works employees. Also, perform routine skilled maintenance work in streets, parks, water, sewer, equipment, and buildings.

Qualified candidates must possess a High School diploma or general education degree (GED), valid Class B Driver’s License, strong experience with mechanical work, and demonstrate ability to perform the mechanical duties assigned to this position. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. The hourly wage per hour is $28.00/hour - $32.00/hour DOQ. The deadline for submitting an employment application is 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon on November 23, 2023. Applications are available at the Albany Administration Building, 400 Railroad Avenue or at the city’s website www.ci.albany.mn.us.

Tom Schneider Interim City Administrator Published in the Star post this 8th day of November 2023.

P-45-1B

8. Combined Polling Place Resolution 9. School Board Policies - Third Read 1. 514 Bullying Prohibition Policy 2. 516.5 Overdose Medication 3. 524 Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy 4. 532 Use of Peace Officers and Crisis Teams 5. 534 School Meals Policy 6. 601 School District Curriculum and Instruction Goals 7. 602 Organization of School Calendar and School Day 8. 603 Curriculum Development 9. 604 Instructional Curriculum 10. 613 Graduation Requirements 10. School Board Policies - First Read 1. 413 Harassment and Violence 2. 616 School District System Accountability 3. 617 School District Ensurance of Preparatory and High School Standards 4. 618 Assessment of Student Achievement 5. 620 Credit for Learning 6. 621 Literacy and The Read Act 7. 624 Online Instruction 8. 708 Transportation of Nonpublic School Students 9. 709 Student Transportation Safety Policy 10. 806 Crisis Management Policy 9. Committee Reports 1. Fifth Monday Meeting 10. Superintendent Report 11. Adjournment Note: Items may be added to the agenda which have an immediate effect on the operation of the school district. An effort will be made to keep additions to a minimum.

Amy Sand, Clerk P-45-1B

CITY OF ALBANY AMENDMENT TO ORDINANCE NO. 80 ZONING SUMMARY PUBLICATION The City of Albany has approved an amendment to Ordinance 80 which (1) adopts standards for the use of metal roofs and siding in certain zoning districts; (2) removes contradictory or duplicative language in Section 80.05 and Section 80.21; and (3) moves exterior materials requirements to each zoning district.

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

This Ordinance was adopted by the City Council of Albany on November 1, 2023, and shall be effective upon publication.

Tom Kasner, Mayor

Tom Schneider, Interim City Administrator

(SEAL) This amendment was published in the Star Post in November 8, 2023.

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PROBATE NOTICE STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF STEARNS DISTRICT COURT SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Case Type: Probate Court File No: 73-PR-23-8310 ORDER AND NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In Re: Estate of Dennis F. Dirkes, Decedent.

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: It is Ordered and Notice is given that on the 1st day of December, 2023, at 8:45 a.m., a hearing will be held in the above-named Court at St. Cloud, Minnesota for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the will of the above-named decedent, dated November 10, 2003, and for the appointment of David J. Dirkes, whose mailing address is 110 Highview Drive, Albany, MN 56307, as personal representative of the estate of

the above-named decedent in unsupervised administration, and that any objections thereto must be filed with the Court.

That, if proper, and no objections are filed, a personal representative will be appointed to administer the estate, to collect all assets, pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, and sell real and personal property, and do all necessary acts for the estate.

Notice is further given that ALL CREDITORS having, claims against said estate are required to present the same to said personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this notice or said claims will be barred.

Dated: October 21, 2023 /s/ Laura Moehrle Judge /s/ George Lock Court Administrator Attorney for Petitioner: Willenbring, Dahl, Wocken & Zimmermann, PLLC Madelyn M. Tillemans (0504205) Daniel T. Zimmermann (141835) 318 Main Street; P.O. Box 417 Cold Spring, MN 56320 Telephone: (320) 685-3678 P-44-2B

DOCUMENT 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS 2024 Street Lighting Freeport, Minnesota SEH No. FREEP 174248 Notice is hereby given that Online Bids will be received by the City Clerk until 10:00 a.m., Thursday, November 30, 2023, via QuestCDN for the furnishing of all labor and material for the construction of 2024 Street Lighting.

The bid opening will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud: 2024 Street Lighting Bid Opening Thursday, November 30, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.

Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_MTM1ZDc5NWYtZTZlOS00NDIzLWEwYjQtOTU3YTBiNGE2NmNh%40thread. v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22642f4553-88f1-43dc9a29-90842cd19d4c%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2248472820a408-4d5c-b262-d033b1c6fa20%22%7d Meeting ID: 280 724 641 905 Passcode: 5VvyJt Or call in (audio only) +1 872-242-7640,,850445886# United States, Chicago Phone Conference ID: 850 445 886# Any person monitoring the meeting remotely may be responsible for any documented costs. Message and data rates may apply.

Major quantities for the Work include: 1,417 SQ FT Concrete Sidewalk 4,478 LF 2-Inch Non-Metallic Conduit Schedule (Directional Bore) 708 LF 3-Inch Non-Metallic Conduit Schedule (Directional Bore) 30 EACH Remove Lighting Unit 72 EACH Salvage Luminaire(s) & Arms 35 EACH Lighting Unit Type Special 17,430 LF Underground Wire 1/C 8 AWG 23,240 LF Underground Wire 1/C 6 AWG The Bidding Documents may be seen at the Issuing Office of SEH located at 2351 Connecticut Avenue, Suite 300, Sartell, MN 56377-2485, 320.229.4300, Dave Blommel, PE, 320.229.4349r, dblommel@sehinc.com.

The Bidding Documents may be viewed for no cost at http:// www.sehinc.com by selecting the Project Bid Information link at the bottom of the page and the View Plans option from the menu at the top of the selected project page.

Digital image copies of the Bidding Documents are available at http://www.sehinc.com for a fee of $30. These documents may be downloaded by selecting this project from the “Project Bid Information” link and by entering eBidDocTM Number 8795158 on the SEARCH PROJECTS page. For assistance and free membership registration, contact QuestCDN at 952.233.1632 or info@questcdn.com.

For this project, bids will ONLY be received electronically. Contractors submitting an electronic bid will be charged an additional $42 at the time of bid submission via the online electronic bid service QuestCDN.com. To access the electronic Bid Worksheet, download the project document and click the online bidding button at the top of the advertisement. Prospective bidders must be on the plan holders list through QuestCDN for bids to be accepted. Bids shall be completed according to the Bidding Requirements prepared by SEH dated October 31, 2023.

In addition to digital plans, paper copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from Docunet Corp. located at 2435 Xenium Lane North, Plymouth, MN 55441 (763.475.9600) for a fee of $75.

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

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

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

Jon Nelson City Clerk/Treasurer Freeport, MN Publish: QuestCDN: November 8, 2023 Star Post: November 8 and 15, 2023 P-45-2B

SPORTS

Page 10 | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | THE STAR POST

Conquering champions in comeback fashion

Volleyball from page 9

Albany football clinches state tournament spot

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Ria Nelson lunges high to hit a ball over the net against Albany Nov. 2 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Nelson and the Lady Dutchmen put up a solid fight versus Section 6AA’s top seed.

“Throughout the year, we would have one person on and one would be off,” Ellering said. “We’ve been working on all being together and that has helped a lot.”

Albany 3, Holdingford 0 The Huskies and Holdingford Huskers battled back and forth in the Section 6AA quarterfinals, with Albany edging Holdingford in each set by scores of 25-22, 25-21, 25-18 to win 3-0 Oct. 31 at Albany Area High School in Albany.

The Huskers took the early lead in the first set and kept it until the Huskies came back to tie at 8-8 and then go on a 4-0 run for a 12-8 lead. That four-point margin did not last long, and the score was tied four more times. Albany got back to a four-point lead at 2319 and closed the set out from there.

“I knew Holdingford was going to come out and play well,” said Brian Hines, Albany coach.

Albany started the second set strong, going up 101. The Huskers then staged a comeback to get within two at 13-11. Albany kept that edge until Holdingford tied it at 19-19 and 21-21. The Huskies used a 4-0 run to finish the set.

The third and final set had Albany establish an early 13-6 lead. But the Huskers began cutting into it, and Albany’s lead shrank to one at 15-14. The Huskies took control with a 10-4 run to win the set and the match.

“Defensively, I thought they were outstanding, and I thought our girls played a really good defensive game as well,” coach Hines said. “Once we kind of settled down, got our serve going in sets two and three. Then I thought we were better offensively as well.”

The Huskers finish their season 18-10. Seeded ninth in the section playoffs, they traveled to eighth-seeded Royalton and won 3-1 in the opening round.

“Our seniors will be greatly missed and tough to replace next year, skill and leadership wise,” said Molly Klatt, Holdingford head coach. “I could not be more proud of how far these girls have come this season with all of the bumps in the road we have had to navigate.”

Ava Hines led the Huskies in serving, going 15for-15 with one ace. Klein was the kills leader with 17 kills, followed by Panek with eight. Ehresmann had 31 set assists while with three ace serves and 11 digs.

Addy Pilarski was the serve leader for Holdingford with 13. Makenna Hohbein led in kills and digs with nine each. Maddy Mitchell had 39 set assists and three aces. Ava Hagerty totaled two blocks.

All season long, the Albany Huskies have prided themselves on being a “second-half team,” a squad capable of ramping up into a game and adjusting to their opponents when it matters most.

No game will ever exemplify that strength more than the Section 6AAA championship game Nov. 3, as the Huskies rallied back from a 23-0 third-quarter deficit to knock off the defending Class AAA state champion New London-Spicer Wildcats by a score of 24-23 at Blattner Stadium in Cold Spring. It was a rematch of last year’s section finals battle, which the Wildcats won 20-14 in overtime.

“That’s what’s beautiful about high school sports,” said Mike Ellingson, head coach. “It can be heartbreaking, and it can be the other side. We’re lucky to have it on our side this year. I’m proud of these kids, and it was so fun to be a part of.”

New London-Spicer, led by its all-time leading rusher Mason Delzer, cemented control early in the physical, gritty matchup. Delzer piled up over 100 rushing yards in the first quarter alone as the Wildcats jumped out to a 12-0 lead after scoring on their opening drive and recovering the untouched ball on the ensuing kickoff.

Things did not get any better for the Huskies after that. Delzer received a kickoff in the second quarter and took it to the house, navigating past Albany’s special teams unit to increase NLS’ lead to 20-0.

It was suddenly gutcheck time for Albany, who was at risk of losing yet another section championship in disappointing fashion.

PHOTO BY MIKE KOSIK

Hunter Hamann watches a throw from Andrew Olson into his hands for a touchdown in the Section 6AAA championship Nov. 3 at Blattner Stadium in Cold Spring. Hamann caught a pair of scores, including one as time expired, to guide Albany to a state-clinching victory.

However, senior Devon Schaefer energized the locker room with a spirit-lifting speech and the coaches emphasized maintaining pride above all else and going out swinging.

“I choose to be a positive person,” Ellingson said.

“In light of crap not going your way, people have to find a way to be positive through it. It really wasn’t going our way… positivity throughout the team and not giving up hope, there’s something special about that.”

NLS scored the first points of the second half on a field goal, making it 23-0 and turning game script in its favor. After all, Albany entered the game as a premier running team, grinding out at least 190 rushing yards in its last three contests. Leaning

on the ground game was not going to work for the Huskies, who were running out of time.

Senior quarterback Andrew Olson and his talented group of pass-catchers helped the Huskies claw back into the matchup.

Olson connected with fellow upperclassman Hunter Hamann for an 18-yard touchdown to cut into the deficit in the third quarter.

After moving down the field behind key passing plays, Ethan Meyer scored from 1 yard out and punched in the 2-point conversion to pull the team within one score with under four minutes left.

“We went into throw mode,” Ellingson said.

“With an incompletion, at least the clock would stop.

We needed as many possessions as we possibly could.

You’ve got to do what you can do as a coach to give your team the best chance of success, and the kids went out and did it.”

Even by pushing the pace and getting production throwing the ball, Albany found itself on the brink of elimination following an interception with two minutes to play. However, the Huskies defensive unit got the stop needed to keep the game going.

The ensuing Wildcat punt was shanked, traveling only 9 yards and giving Albany excellent possession in New London-Spicer territory with under 20 seconds to play. Olson heaved a deep pass up to Meyer, who reeled in a highlight-reel leaping catch to set up first-

Football page 11

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What is your favorite part about cross-country? The team aspect. It really feels like we’re a family when we run and practice, more so than other sports. Each member of the team knows what the others have to go through, and the respect is there.

What is your most memorable meet you have ever been a part of? At Grand Forks, North Dakota, for the Border Battle.

Hundreds of teams from three different states came to the meet and everyone ran a personal best.

What other activities are you involved in at Holdingford High School? Track, band and Leader’s Council.

How do you try to make a difference at school? I try to be a good, fun person to be around and make everyone feel included. I try to be a leader and lead by example.

What teacher or coach has made an impact on your life? My cross-country coach, Tracy Huls. She trained me into the runner I am and provides endless support.

Tracy is a big reason I love the sport of running.

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400-meter. It currently sits at 50.74 seconds and I need to drop one second this year.

What are you thankful for today? The great support system I’ve had for my running and high school career. My parents, friends and coaches have all been awesome, and I couldn’t be the person I am without them.

What is your favorite way to spend a day off? With friends or watching football games with my dad and grandpa.

What is one item on your bucket list? To break the school record in the

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What do you like most about being a cheerleader?

Being the leader and cheering on the team. Cheerleaders only cheer at football games, but I do my best to go to every sporting event and cheer everybody on.

What is your most memorable experience as a cheerleader? The mini-cheer camp is my favorite, where we train the little girls for a week and they cheer during a game.

Natalee Hoffner Parents: Nathan and Sara Hoffner Accomplishment: Melrose Area High School senior cheerleader captain

making posters and talking to student council members about donations, fundraisers and volunteering.

college and honors credits. She also talks about how important it is to be nice no matter what.

What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned in class recently? In economics, we are learning about supply and demand.

How do you like to spend your free time? Working out and running for track, and I love to bake and share what I’ve made.

What teacher or coach has made an impact on your life? Spanish teacher Mrs. (Lindsey) Gruber has days when we just talk about life, like setting up for

What is your favorite restaurant and the meal you order? Giant pretzels with honey mustard at JD’s Taphouse in Melrose.

What other activities are you involved in at school? Choir, track and field and CEO class, where I have my own business.

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SPORTS

THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | Page 11

Huskies Lundgren, Schwalbe run strong

BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER

Eva Lundgren finished 37th and Carter Schwalbe 72nd for the Albany Area High School Huskies at the Class AA Minnesota State High School League Cross-Country State Tournament Nov. 4 at Les Bolstad Golf Course in Falcon Heights.

Lundgren, a junior, finished with a time of 19 minutes, 42.7 seconds among the 160 individuals in the girls race. Schwalbe, a senior, finished the race at 17:09.1 in the boys race, which also had 160 runners.

Mankato East took the team title for the boys with a score of 46. For the girls, it was Marshall that finished first with a team total of 81.

The top runner in the girls race was Isabella Schmitz of Hutchinson, who ran in with a time of 17:56.5. For the boys, Eli Hall of Pequot Lakes finished first with a time of 15:13.3.

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Purple PRIDE Devon Schaefer

What do you enjoy most about being part of the football team? The friends and memories I’ve made on and off the field.

What are two goals you would like to accomplish during the school year? Go to state in basketball and graduate.

Tell us about the most memorable game you have been part of. Zimmerman 2022. It was just a dogfight the whole game, but really fun.

Which teacher or coach has been most influential in your life? Steve Schiffler was my basketball coach in seventh grade but has helped me throughout my high school journey.

What other activities are you involved in at school? Basketball, Captains and Leaders, golf and baseball.

Parents: Karen Schaefer

Accomplishment: Senior and one of the What life lesson has being involved in activities captains on the Albany Area High School taught you? Hard work pays off. football team that won the Section 6AAA championship over New London-Spicer What is something you’ve learned in class recently? The voting system in government.

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Tell us something about yourself most people do not know? I don’t like cheese.

For dinner and a movie, what’s on the menu and big screen? Chili dogs and High School Musical 1, 2 and 3.

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0 0 8 16-24 12 8 3 0-23 Albany results: Passing: Olson 17-for-30, 247 yards, 2 TDs and 2 INTs. Rushing: Olson 4 carries-16 yards.

Receiving: Rieland 4 catches-97 yards.

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PHOTOS BY MIKE KOSIK

Albany’s Carter Schwalbe begins his race in the Class AA Minnesota State High School League Cross-Country State Tournament Nov. 4 at the University of Minnesota’s Les Bolstad Golf Course in Falcon Heights. Schwalbe took 72nd out of 160 runners.

Football and-goal for the Huskies.

After some chaos with getting everyone set, Albany spiked the ball with under 10 seconds left and a renewed sense of optimism. The Huskies were determined to score and did so with a 1-yard catch from Hamann as time expired.

Another stressful situation followed. Would the team rather go for the safer option in the extra point and send the game to overtime or put everything on the line with a 2-point conversion try? Amongst the energetic Huskies squad, one option loomed as the clear favorite.

“Everyone wanted to go for two,” said Jack Rieland, senior. “We just wanted to win it there.”

Olson took the snap and fired to his left to Rieland, who was running an out route. The reliable receiver brought the ball in as he tumbled to the ground, giving Albany one of the most thrilling wins any team will achieve on the football field in the state of Minnesota this season.

“My heart was racing, and I felt like I was floating,” Ellingson said. “I think they all were. They knew what was on the line.

The kids are going to make plays, and the kids are going to be the ones to go and win the game.”

The Huskies will take on another reigning Class AAA state finalist in Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton in the state quarterfinals at 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 10, at Alexandria Area High School in Alexandria. The winner will get the chance to play at U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis in the semifinals.

Scan the QR code to access this year’s sports photos!

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Albany’s Eva Lundgren closes in on the finish line at the Class AA Minnesota State High School League Cross-Country State Tournament Nov. 4 at Les Bolstad Golf Course in Falcon Heights. The junior Lundgren crossed the finish line at 19 minutes, 42.7 seconds for 37th place out of 160 competitors.

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