Sauk Rapids Herald - June, 27, 2020 Edition

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Saturday, June 27, 2020

Vol. 166, No. 12

Same Local Coverage Since 1854.

Nelson overcomes severe case of COVID-19

BY BEN SONNEK STAFF WRITER

Pleasantview design moves forward

OBITUARIES

• Elizabeth “Betsy” J. Luberts • Clara C. Tretter

PUBLIC NOTICES

• City of Sauk Rapids 2020 Bituminous Seal Coating Bids - pg. 10 • Sauk Rapids-Rice ISD No. 47 Special Board Meeting - pg. 13 • Sauk Rapids-Rice ISD No. 47 Reg. Board Meeting, May 18, 2020 - pg. 13 • Benton County Board of Commissioners Public Hearing - pg. 10 • Benton County Planning Commission Public Hearings - pg. 13 • Mortgage Foreclosure Postponement - pg. 12 • City of Sauk Rapids Reg. Minutes, June 8, 2020 - pg. 12 • Benton County Cemetary Association Annual Meeting - pg. 12 • Mayhew Lake Township Monthly Meeting - pg. 12

ST R

Publications The newspaper of today is the history of tomorrow.

Board members presented with 3-D renderings

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER STAFF WRITER

S

AUK RAPIDS – The design process for the new Pleasantview Elementary School continues to move forward. The Sauk Rapids-Rice School Board members were presented with updated floor

plans and, for the first time, 3-D schematic renderings at its June 22 meeting.

“I am really impressed with this,” said Ryan Butkowski, chairperson of the board. “I think the design fits in with the neighborhood, and the community will be proud of the school.”

During the presentation,

board members saw the exterior design detail, as well as common spaces like the cafeteria, media center, student services and entryway. The common area inside the main entrance will feature wood-themed ceilings.

Pleasantview page 3

Through retirement, Wotzka completes largest project yet Sauk Rapids engineer passes torch after 31 years

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – The city of Sauk Rapids continuous capital improvement plan has taken major steps in improving the quality of life of its residents through a wide collection of undertakings.

One such project is the replacePHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON ment of a lift station, one of three similar designs the city has in mind through Sauk Rapids city engineer Terry Wotzka speaks during a Sauk Rapids City Council meeting June 22 in Sauk Rapids.

2038.

Wotzka page 2

This was the final meeting of Wotzka’s career; he is retiring after 31 years.

Not many people are fortunate enough to walk away from COVID-19 combined with asthma and pneumonia complications. But, after spending 45 days in a hospital – 25 of which included ventilator assistance – Todd Nelson returned home to his wife, Deanna, and their four children. While he has a long road to a full recovery, Todd is grateful to his medical team and community for supporting him and his family.

“It feels really good to have made it through,” Todd said. “It’s awesome to know how many people cared about you; it gives you a new hope for humanity, seeing how people can pull together. It’s hard to wrap your head around it; I’m still trying to.”

Todd, Deanna and their children – Matthew, 17, Alex, 14, Chris, 14, and Karina, 11 – live in Sauk Rapids. Todd works in the pharmacy at Coborn’s on Cooper Avenue in St. Cloud.

When COVID-19 reached Minnesota, the pharmacy took measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Employees are required to wear masks, have their temperatures taken and frequently wash their hands.

Customers could only come to the pharmacy’s drive-thru window to minimize contact with employees. Todd does not know how the virus was passed on to him.

Todd began showing symptoms April 21. Although, due to the nature of his symptoms, he does not remember the particulars.

“It happened at work, and my coworker was concerned because I kept asking her the same questions over and over,” Todd said.

“She thought maybe I was having a stroke.”

Nelson page 4

NEWS

Page 2 | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Bar owner alleges UniteCloud defamed, interfered with business

BY JAKOB KOUNKEL | STAFF WRITER

FOLEY – A Sauk Rapids bar and restaurant, Rollie’s Rednecks & Longnecks, is suing non-profit social justice group Unite Cloud and two individuals for defamation and interference with business relations.

According to a complaint filed in 7th Judicial District Court June 24, Rollie’s owner Rolland Hogrefe said his bar has lost in excess of $50,000 in revenue due to meddling.

Unite Cloud’s website states its mission is to provide “education and actionable steps to resolve and restore dignity to all people in Central Minnesota,” and its vision states Unite Cloud seeks to foster an empathetic, inclusive community that stands up for everybody’s rights. The lawsuit names Natalie Ringsmuth, the group’s director, and Alexandra Monson, who operates the Facebook page “Crashing Rollie’s,” and the Unite Cloud as the defendants.

In the court document, Hogrefe argues the nonprofit group accomplishes the opposite of its stated mission, engaging in acts intended to raise tension in the area by harassing people and entities who hold different political views instead of promoting inclusivity.

Hogrefe said in the court documents that Unite Cloud has made false public statements about his restaurant. The group has been posting anonymous testimonials on its Facebook page of more than 8,000 followers, some of which claim racist and homophobic experiences at the bar.

The lawsuit comes after Rollie’s already sent a cease and desist letter to Unite Cloud and Ringsmuth, asking them to take down the false statements and testimonials circulating via social media, but the suggestion went unheeded, according to a press release announcing the lawsuit.

“If you hold different political or social views than Natalie and her group, they will go after you and not stop until they shut you down,” Hogrefe said in the release. “It’s time someone stands up to this bullying and cancel the ‘Cancel Culture.’”

One popular post related to Rollie’s on Unite Cloud’s Facebook page alleges that Hogrefe confronted a gay couple, used a derogatory slur and demanded they leave the bar. In the court document, Hogrefe stated the incident was false and fabricated. Hogrefe lists more examples of anonymous, first-person testimonials posted on Unite Cloud’s Facebook page that he said are also entirely made up to harm the reputation of his restaurant.

On Monson’s “Crashing Rollie’s” Facebook page description, it lists an action plan for the “possibility of crashing Rollie’s.”

“This is a group where we can discuss the possibility of crashing Rollie’s in Sauk Rapids with (Black Lives Matter) and other allies,” the social media page description states. “We need about 50 or more brave souls, and a solid game plan.”

Because the Facebook group is private, it is not entirely clear what is planned or has already been done. However, a public-facing list details plans to organize a date and time, gather as many people as possible and take up as much space in Rollie’s as possible without making purchases. It states to remain non-violent and unbothered, “no matter how hard you wanna punch them.”

Hogrefe is seeking restitution of costs and damages and a legal order that Unite Cloud, Ringsmuth and Monson have to stop further defamation and interference with Rollie’s.

Ringsmuth, Unite Cloud, Monson and Hogrefe did not immediately respond for comment.

Wotzka from front

While the action serves as just another step in the infrastructural cycle, it also signals the passing of an era.

The lift station was Terry Wotzka’s first project in Sauk Rapids, all the way back in 1986.

For Wotzka, an engineer for Short Elliot Hendrickson Inc., it was the beginning of a noteworthy career.

And now, as his first Sauk Rapids project meets its end, Wotzka is retiring as city engineer after 31 years in the position. He was honored with a plaque at a Sauk Rapids City Council meeting June 22.

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to serve this community,” he said.

“It’s been an honor and a privilege. I know a lot of people here and my family grew up here, so it was kind of surreal to go to my last meeting.”

Wotzka’s final day in the position is July 6.

Overall, the journeyed project manager has worked in civil engineering for almost 40 years. He graduated from North Dakota State University in 1981 and entered a stagnant job market as a result of an untimely economic recession. However, firms directly in the heart of the oil patch were still hiring, and Wotzka moved south to ignite his engineering career, spending his first five years working for Hayter Engineering before returning to Minnesota.

“My first five years of my career were spent with a family engineering firm in Paris, Texas,” Wotzka said. “I met my wife there. There was an opening at a firm in

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Sauk Rapids city engineer Terry Wotzka stands on the Sauk Rapids Regional Bridge June 24 in Sauk Rapids. Wotzka’s engineering efforts led to the replacement of Sauk Rapids Bridge with this current structure.

St. Cloud, I applied, and they had the engineering contract for the city of Sauk Rapids. That’s how I got assigned to work on Sauk Rapids projects.”

After establishing himself within the Sauk Rapids community as a project manager for SEH, the city eventually assigned Wotzka to the city engineer position, which captured the rewarding nature of taking on projects.

“It offered me the same type of projects that juiced me,” he said. “It was something I wanted to do. For me, it could be a big project or a little project.”

One such endeavor on Wotzka’s resume was a 10-year major bridge replacement project, where the Sauk Rapids Bridge was replaced with the Sauk Rapids Regional Bridge, moving a central access point to the downtown Sauk Rapids area from First Street South to Second Street North.

Sauk Rapids Mayor Kurt Hunstiger was a member of the city council 20 years ago when the bridge project was conceived. He recalls a contentious meeting as how

a new bridge would be implemented, followed by a brief discussion with Wotzka, whom he found to be a reliable associate.

Hunstiger suggested moving the bridge to its eventual location, and Wotzka formulated a plan of action, leading to the eventual replacement project.

“It’s nice to have a go-to person like that when you’re in a position at city council or a planning commission,” Hunstiger said. “I could call Terry and say, ‘Here’s a situation we’re dealing with. How would you handle it?’ And, he would give his opinion.

I would learn something, too, because my way was not always the best way.

I really respect him for that.”

Wotzka was a valuable consultant to the city, lending his expertise to just about every infrastructural intention, whether it was building a new water treatment plant or adding subdivisions off of Highway 10.

Ross Olson, Sauk Rapids city administrator, worked alongside Wotzka for nearly 20 years and found his mindset to be unique in a technical License #BC681135

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Rollie’s Rednecks & Longnecks sues social justice group

environment.

“Some doctors have their bedside manner; Terry had great curbside manner,” Olson said.

“He has that ability to share that expertise in a manner that is easy to understand by all parties.

He can stand next to a curb or a front yard and explain at a level that is easy to understand why the city has to reconstruct the road or why a sewer line has failed.”

Working with city administration and public works was not the lone extent of Wotzka’s impact; he enjoyed simpler, under-the-radar projects that lent themselves toward benefitting a larger percentage of the community. These included the Quiet Zone project, enabling train horns to remain silent through populated sections of the city, and Minnesota’s first peanut-shaped roundabout.

As a result of these fulfilling moments, closing the book is not easy.

However, Wotzka believes the city is in a beneficial position with Scott Hedlund, another SEH project manager whom he has known for 23 years, stepping up as Wotzka’s replacement.

“We’ve been working on a transition for at least the last year, working Scott into the projects,” Wotzka said. “I feel like the city will be in good hands.”

And now, the longtime engineering management figure will have time to pay attention to other pursuits. He is ready to embrace his hobbies, spend time with his family, travel to different locations and volunteer within the community.

Like his many projects, his career has come to an immaculate conclusion.

“I’ve enjoyed my career, and I’m looking forward to the next phase,” he said. “I’m slowing down, not having as much on my plate. I’m looking forward to that.”

NEWS

Page 4 | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Nelson from front

Deanna picked Todd up and drove him to the CentraCare - St. Cloud Hospital, where his condition was identified as transient global amnesia, a temporary period of short-term memory loss.

As TGA was not yet a known symptom of COVID-19, and Todd had no other signs of illness, he was not tested for the virus. After other tests, including an MRI and a CT scan, he was sent home. His memory returned to normal the next day.

“The neurologist didn’t think I had COVID-19 at first because that’s not how it classically presents itself,” Todd said. “Now it does, so the neurologist wrote and submitted a paper abstract because it’s happening. There have been more cases, so it’s becoming more of a known symptom. It’s still rare, but now it’s something they know to look for.”

When Todd came down with a fever April 23, he went to the hospital again for their drivethru COVID-19 testing.

The test came back positive April 27, and Todd was advised to stay at home to see if the virus would run its course.

Two days later, he took a turn for the worse and was admitted to the hospital’s intensive care unit May 1.

Todd’s asthma might have influenced the severity with which COVID-19 affected him.

When his blood oxygen saturation dove to around 80% (15% below normal levels), he called Deanna May 4 to let her know he was about to be put on a ventilator. The machine would help him breathe.

The call home was one of Todd’s last memories for two weeks.

While on the ventilator, he was kept sedated to prevent him from interfering with the machine’s function.

“I was awake enough to talk to people,” Todd said. “I could have conversations with the staff.

They’d ask me questions and talk to me, or they’d get the iPad and they’d FaceTime my family, but I don’t remember it.”

Todd could receive no visitors while in hospital.

“When the twins were in the hospital as babies, I was in the hospital every day; you’re talking to the nurses and the doctors face-to-face and getting your questions answered,” Deanna said. “I couldn’t be there and just hold Todd’s hand and talk to him and help him relax. And, they

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Nelson family – Todd (front, from left), Karina, Deanna and Alex; (back, from left) Matthew and Chris – stand at their home in Sauk Rapids June 19. Todd’s recovery from COVID-19 was exasperated by pneumonia and asthma complications.

don’t have someone who can just sit in there 24 hours.”

Deanna and the children all tested positive for COVID-19 a week after Todd was diagnosed, so they remained quarantined at home for three weeks. Alex and Chris had fevers, and Deanna had a sore throat for a few days, but their symptoms never progressed beyond that point.

The community rallied to help the family during their quarantine.

Their church organized a

meal train, people called to check on them every day, and Todd’s sister, Michelle Nelson, operated a Facebook page for them to give updates and set up a GoFundMe account to help offset the family’s costs. Karina’s birthday was during the quarantine, so people drove by to honk their horns and leave gifts.

Todd was taken off the ventilator May 17, but after high-flow oxygen therapy, his oxygen saturation dove to around 70% and a pneumonia

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infection was discovered. He was put back on the ventilator May 19, this time for 11 days. The turning point came when Todd was given the drug Remdesivir and a plasma infusion from someone who had tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies.

“Both of these were trials,” Deanna said.

“You’ve got to trust that the medical professionals know what’s best.”

May 29 was Todd’s last day on the ventilator as his health improved.

The 25 days in sedation had taken their toll. Todd had lost over 50 pounds and a lot of his muscle strength.

“You lose your mobility and dignity,” Todd said. “You’re lying there in a gown, and the nurses are coming in to roll you over and check you. You can’t move, you can’t do anything, and some of these nurses are people I know; some of them go to the gym where I go. I didn’t want to sleep because, if I slept, I felt like I wasn’t going to be able to breathe. All you do is

think about each breath.”

After the ventilator tube was removed, Todd’s vocal cords did not allow him to talk above a whisper, and he could not swallow. He was fed through a tube in his nose, and nurses gave him ice chips or swabbed his mouth with a wet sponge.

In June, Todd began physical, occupational and speech therapy to get back on his feet; Deanna was allowed to visit for his birthday. Todd received another surprise on a conference call with his therapists and rehab unit doctor: He was going to be released June 13 – sooner than expected.

“Before the conference call, I did a lot of extra stuff in therapy,” Todd said. “Instead of doing five reps, I’d do 10, and I’d walk all the way to the end of the hall and back, so maybe I was trying to impress the doctors so I could really improve and go home early.”

Now that he is at home, Todd is continuing to build strength and mobility. His sleep has improved, he hardly uses an oxygen tank, and he can get around with a walker or without if walking short distances. Todd is grateful for the support, and he looks forward to educating people on the hazards COVID-19 can have.

“So many people think it’s no big deal,” Todd said. “For 95% of people it’s true, but for some of us, it’s a big deal. I’m looking forward to getting back to normal, thanking people, being more appreciative of life, trying to be a better dad and husband, trying to improve my faith, and trying to help people understand and be more educated about this virus and situation.”

Letters: Letters to the editor and other opinion articles are welcomed. Letters must be signed with first and last name and include address and phone number. Letters should be short and to the point (400 words or less). We reserve the right to edit lengthy letters.

Corrections/Clarifications: The Herald strives for accuracy. If you would like to report a factual error, please call (320) 251-1971.

Deadlines: The deadline for most news in the Herald is noon on Wednesday. Exceptions are obituaries which have a deadline of 10 a.m. Thursday. The deadline for advertisements in the Herald is 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

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NEWS/OBITUARIES

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | Page 5

Council approves solar at industrial park

Hardware

t Distributers Ltd.

Clara C. Tretter

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – A Sauk Rapids business is endeavoring to use clean energy after receiving approval for three rooftop solar arrays.

The Sauk Rapids City Council approved Hardware Distributors Ltd.’s conditional use permit, allowing the company to proceed with the project at its June 22 meeting.

Eight-hundred fifty-six panels will be installed at 5 Industrial Blvd., Sauk Rapids. The project will not require a glare study on the condition any probt lems be remedied immediately should they arise.

Although the planning commission recommended a glare study be completed, the city learned the business had trouble finding a firm that would complete the analysis. The council accepted a letter from Melissa Underwood, senior aviation planner at Short Elliot Hendrickson Inc., claiming the study was unnecessary given the specifications of the solar installation. According to Underwood, a glare analysis completed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation showed no glare would affect Golden Spike Road or U.S. Highway 10.

The council plans to review the permit one year following installation to assess the solar arrays.

A public hearing on

Elizabeth “Betsy” J. Luberts

Mass of Christian Burial was at 11 a.m. June 25 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Sartell for Elizabeth “Betsy” J. Luberts, age 64, who passed away June 1, 2020, at her home. The Rev. Timothy Baltes officiated and burial was at the parish cemetery. Visitation was from 4-8 p.m., June 24, with a prayer service at 4 p.m. at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Sauk Rapids.

R-26-1F

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

Craig Nelson, director of utilities for the Sauk Rapids Public Works Department, stands with Mayor Kurt Hunstiger at the city council meeting June 22 in Sauk Rapids. Nelson was recognized for 20 years of service with the city.

the matter took place at the June 8 meeting. No public testimony was brought forth at that time.

In other council news: – Recognized the retirement of city engineer Terry Wotzka, of SEH, and recognized Craig Nelson, public works director of utilities, for 20 years of service.

Mayor Kurt Hunstiger presented Wotzka with a glass plaque and noted the engineer’s work in nearly every city project in the last 31 years.

Wotzka took a moment to also speak.

“The feeling I have is just gratitude,” Wotzka said. “I want to thank this council, this staff and all the council members before and all the staff members before. … I can’t think of a better way to have a career than to work in this city.”

Wotzka said the projects he worked on were

team efforts with city staff and his group at SEH. He thanked public works staff and his family.

“I think I counted up like 2,000 meetings in 34 years,” he said. “That’s a lot of nights – 2,000.

Thank you for your sacrifice. I love you, and you and the girls always reminded me that the most important job I had was being a good husband and father. So, thank you.”

– Approved and awarded a bid of $439,673 to Flair Contracting Inc., of Minneapolis, for the splash pad that will be installed at Sauk Rapids Lions Sunset Park. Three bids were collected. The awarded bid came in roughly $60,000 below estimates.

– Approved a change order of $100,406 for the 2020 River Avenue Improvements to address cost of regulated fill as discussed at the June 8 meeting.

– Approved Kelly Johnson as the city’s electrical inspector. Former inspector Darrel Nemeth retired.

– The city of St. Cloud is seeking board members for the Whitney Senior Center Advisory Board. Sauk Rapids contributes an annual amount to the senior center each year as Sauk Rapids residents use the facility.

Board members are expected to attend six meetings in January, March, May, July, September and November.

Board members are appointed by St. Cloud Mayor Dave Kleis and the St. Cloud City Council.

Applications can be found at https://www. ci.stcloud.mn.us/108/ boards-commissions.

– National Night Out has been rescheduled to Oct. 6. It had been slated for Aug. 4.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 30, at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids for Clara C. Tretter, age 93, who passed away June 24, 2020, at Country Manor Health Care Center in Sartell. The Rev. Gerald Dalseth will officiate and burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Sauk Rapids. Visitation will be one hour prior to the services Tuesday at the funeral home in Sauk Rapids.

Clara was born July 15, 1926, in Morrill to Wolfgang and Chrysenthia (Zormeier) Muehlbauer. She married Lawrence Tretter Oct. 4, 1944, in Harding. Clara lived in the Sauk Rapids area after her marriage and worked at Central Canvas in St. Cloud. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids. Clara enjoyed trips to the casino, playing bingo, playing cards and dogs. She was outspoken, honest and spunky.

Survivors include her

Clara C. Tretter

daughter, Debbie (Mike) Karnik of Sauk Rapids; sister, Mary Lou Schneider of Sartell; grandchildren, Mike (Katie) Karnik, Christina Karnik, Kayla (Andy) Peterson, and Eric Karnik; and great grandchildren, Raquel, Tyrone, Blake, Alyson, Jaxon and Bentley. Clara was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Lawrence in 1996; brothers, Henry, Jack, Leo, Lawrence, Herb, George and Norbert Muehlbauer; and sister, Regina Schramel.

Obituary, guest book and video tribute available online at https://www. williamsdingmann.com.

R-26-1B

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Applications opened June 23 for 10 days.

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The application period began June 23 and will close at 5 p.m.

Thursday, July 2. A randomized, computer-generated lottery process will be used to select eligible businesses that will receive awards.

All awards will be administered by qualified local and regionally

based nonprofit agencies, and the grant funds can be used for working capital to support payroll expenses, rent, mortgage payments, utility bills and other similar business expenses.

To be eligible, businesses must have a permanent physical location in Minnesota and be majority owned by a permanent resident of Minnesota. Businesses must be able to demonstrate hardship as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Additional eligibility requirements and application information can be found online at DEED’s Small Business Relief Grants webpage.

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OBITUARIES

Page 6 | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

EDITORIAL

Gardening safety

There are potential dangers that gardeners should be aware of while working in their lawns and gardens. These dangers can be reduced or prevented with protective clothing, knowledge of potential hazards and the safe operation of garden GREEN & GROWING IN BENTON COUNTY machines.

Gloves and face BY LINDA G. TENNESON masks should be worn while working with soil additives and fertilizers that are made up of fine particles that can become airborne and inhaled. Perlite and vermiculite are common additives used to make soil less dense and made be sold pulverized into fine particles.

Remember to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including your face and around your neck.

Insect repellent can discourage mosquitos from biting. Tucking pants into socks can keep ticks from reaching your skin, and check your body for ticks each day. Lyme and other tick-borne diseases are common. Lyme disease does not always produce the characteristic red circle rash. Unusual fatigue or other symptoms should be checked by a physician.

Read the labels on all chemicals before purchasing. Some can produce health problems if they enter the body through the skin or by inhaling airborne particles. Chemicals that are non-toxic when used alone may become dangerous when mixed.

Face masks or respirators will help protect the gardener while pesticides or herbicides are sprayed on plants or lawns.

Hats will provide some sun exposure protection as well as keeping hair from blowing into your face. Gloves will reduce or protect your hands from blisters and other injuries. And dragging your nails against a bar of soap before gardening will keep dirt from lodging under the nails and make hand washing much easier when the work is done.

Washable leather and cloth gloves are available in various sizes for both men and women. A properly fitting glove, neither too large nor too small, will make weeding and other garden tasks easier.

Frequent water and rest breaks will prevent dehydration and sunstroke. Safety glasses will prevent injury from twigs and debris tossed up while mowing.

Muscle strain can result from lifting and carrying heavy plants or bags or from digging holes to plant trees or shrubs. Stretching exercises done before attempting heavy labor may aid in reducing this strain. Other physical dangers include repetitive movement such as weeding or raking which in turn may produce carpel wrist syndrome or shoulder soreness. Ear protection may be needed while using loud equipment such as lawn mowers or leaf blowers. Tetanus shots every 10 years are highly recommended because puncture wounds may occur while working with tools or plants with thorns.

Pathogens in the soil may enter a wound or be breathed in. And compost made of animal manure may still contain pathogens. Mold and fungi may produce spores that easily travel in the air and then be inhaled.

There are poisonous plants that produce lovely blooms. Monkshood is one example. The roots of this plant should be handled only while wearing disposable or washable gloves. Monkshood blooms should be left on the plant instead of being cut and brought indoors because the sap in the stems will cause the container water to become toxic.

Cleanliness is also required when harvesting fruits and vegetables. Wash your hands before and after harvesting produce, and wash the produce as well.

Washing produce will prevent accidental ingestion of bird manure and other dangerous substances.

Linda G. Tenneson is a University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener and Tree Care Advisor.

That garden life What if a garden was not only a garden have spent the next three hours discussing and a column was not only a column? I regardening and planting methods but because member when a garden was not anywhere we are believers, we know who makes it all on my radar as a newly married woman and possible and whose hand is in it all. Then then well into four kids. I was busy raising the question was asked, “How has gardenchildren, dropping them off and picking ing, either planting, weeding or harvesting, them up after school while creating art in spoken to you about everyday life?” A brief between. Writing was something I did on pause was followed by a woman replying, a social media post and would never imag“The seed planted grows out of the ground ine reaching more than a few friends. What sometimes along with weeds, and it can be LIFE BY FAITH turns an ordinary garden and small-town hard to recognize which is which at first. newspaper opinion column into a move- BY MERCY NYGAARD But the more you do it, the more you can ment of the heart is by no means capable by start distinguishing what is a weed so you mere human effort. can pull it out. I feel that in my life, the closer I grow to Shoveling, one push and heave at a time, ripping God, I can recognize the weeds in my life that stunt my out the grass roots and picking out the rocks in the growth so I can pull them out.” I glanced around seeing crisp, spring air was life changing for me. Watching my many women nodding their head and a few as if I could husband start the tiller and seeing it shred the lawn into read their expressions saying, “I never thought of it that loose clumpy dirt opened my eyes to the greater work. way.”

Before the seed can be planted, the soil must be Again, a woman volunteered and her answer sent worked. My personal life was being tilled by God him- shockwaves through our circle. My prayer is that those self. At the time, the pain of what was happening in who are left-brain dominate and not naturally able to my personal life was so awful. It felt like my heart was tap into their creative side were unlocking the ability to being shredded like the lawn. All that to say, I came out see the life-giving metaphors God has placed throughbetter because of it, and my life experiences have nur- out his word about gardening. Women from all generatured others who began to go through something simi- tions, in a wide age demographic, were learning from lar – like a vegetable planted in prepared soil will grow each other’s life experiences and pointing each other to better and nurtures those who eat its fruit. live for God’s glory.

After the governor began to announce he may start I share this with you to encourage you that many allowing small gatherings, I put the word out asking if people are hungry for fellowship and connection. Many there was interest in a garden tour amongst the women people are unable to tap into their creative or spiritual in our church. I got the idea last year from a friend who side and need a gentle little nudge that may unlock and posted a picture of her forest garden; when I comment- unhinge the door so the Holy Spirit can flood in. A gared I wanted to learn more, she said, “We should have a den was an excuse to get together, and it has brought an garden tour.” entirely new group of women together who would not I received more interest than I anticipated with typically cross paths, even in our own church. many women offering to host. We had enough volIt is hard to say, “Tell me your life story,” in a unteers to have one location throughout the summer. 15-minute hi-and-bye setting. However, you can say, “I Each week, we go to someone’s backyard with the host want to know your story. Can we set aside some time giving a tour of their flower or vegetable garden. We to get to know one another better?” You never know started our first two last week, and my heart, which was where that conversation will lead you, and how much growing, has begun to explode. Women were so happy life can be given and received for God’s glory. to spend time with each other and eager to learn what Finally, it is by no human effort that revivals and the others have experienced. movements grow.

When we had explored the entire garden, we sat “So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he down to dig in deeper in fellowship. Together we read who waters, but God who gives the increase,” 1 CorinJohn 15:5, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who thians 3:7. “Go then, plant and water, and let God do abides in me and I in him, bears much fruit; for without the growing.” me you can do nothing.” We acknowledged we could

Traditional letters to the editor policy Letters to the editor and other opinion articles are welcome. Letters must be signed with a first and last name and include an address and phone number. Letters should be under 400 words and to the point, and be submitted by 10 a.m. Friday. Anything over 400 words will be charged accordingly.

EDITORIAL

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | Page 7

Planting gardens, memories I love being outside and enjoying all and hostas. Even better: The hostas I am things nature has to offer (besides the mosgoing to plant started with my grandquitoes). When my husband and I bought mother, whom I was close with when she our home last October, it came with a beauwas alive. I spent lots of time with her, tiful yard which was right up my alley. and I always admired her gardens. Having Since the snow melted this spring, we some of her plants will be a very warm have been busy outside mowing grass, reand welcomed reminder of her, as she moving a small pond we did not want to passed away when I was in high school. keep, installing a fire pit and pulling out As I look across my developing ridiculous grapevine. However, our newest ON THE SIDELINES garden, many memories make me smile. project has been my favorite thus far. Even BY ANNA HINKEMEYER I helped my mom plant many of these though it is not yet completed, I am excited. growing up, and now she has been helpThe first owners of our home had a small circular ing me transplant them at my home. flower garden in front of the house which was comMy mom and I enjoyed the process of picking plete with a tree that grew too tall and too close for out what I wanted from her gardens and placing them our liking. The flowers were beautiful, but that is the in just the right spot in our new garden. Gardening is extent of my like for it. The placement of the garden something my mom and I have done together for so was not ideal either because it made cutting grass in many years, even though I grumbled and complained that area extremely hard. A lot of forward and back every time she made me pull weeds all afternoon. with the lawn mower and having to go back with the Though the project is hard work and is taking weed trimmer was bound to be more frustrating with several long days to complete, the memories I have each time it needed to be done. made with both my mom and my husband have been So, we decided change was in order. We start- the best. While I see beautiful flowers starting to ed by tearing out grass and laying edging, rock and flourish in their new environment, the greater reward mulch. The stump was ground up earlier this week, is in the memories I will never cease to forget. and I am excited to finish the project.

Sometimes creating a new masterpiece is more The most rewarding aspect of this project is the about the small moments within it, and that is where plants themselves. Many of the flowers have come I find the greatest meaning. Family has always been from my parents’ home and are some of my favorite important and that has only increased with the fruits flowers – lilies in vibrant reds and yellows, sedums of our labor.

Letters to the Editor

Suicide risk during the pandemic Mark Jacobson, of Winona During the COVID-19 pandemic, some people with mental health problems may be at elevated risk for suicide. This is because the levels of stress many are experiencing can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair. People who are already in treatment for suicide risk may need additional support. This includes people who are having suicidal thoughts as well as those with a history of suicidal thoughts or a suicide attempt. Other people may experience an exacerbation of existing or emerging mental health problems. This includes those with psychiatric disorders, alcohol and substance use disorders, and psychotic disorders as well as individuals who struggle with aggressive or uninhibited behavior and find it difficult to manage strong negative emotions.

It is important to speak up about your family member’s and your needs during this time, and to accept additional help may be needed.

We can all learn to recognize the warning signs of suicide. Such recognition, combined with expressing caring concern and assisting the person with the next step toward getting professional help, may be lifesaving.

If you are concerned about someone’s possible

suicide risk, share your concern and ask the person if they are having suicidal thoughts. Look out for worrisome behavior changes, particularly when behavior changes follow or are related to a loss, painful or shaming experiences or a change in life circumstances.

We encourage you to listen to and validate the person’s emotional pain, ask if he or she is having thoughts of suicide, and stay with the person until they are linked with needed help.

Some warning signs for suicide are: – Talk or written words about suicide, hopelessness, having no reason to live, being a burden, feeling trapped or unbearable pain.

– Increased use of alcohol or drugs, withdrawal from usual activities, searching for a way to end life, isolating from family or friends, or highly worrisome changes in behavior.

– Depression, anxiety, loss of interest, irritability, humiliation and shame, agitation and anger, or relief and sudden improvement.

Free 24/7 resources include the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 and Crisis Text Line. Text the words “home” or “start” to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor.

BREAK CROSSWORD

1. Protects from weather 4. Superhigh frequency 7. Southern constellation 8. Swines 10. Self-righteously moralistic person 12. United Arab Emirates city 13. Surinam toad 14. Sign language 16. Tattoo (slang) 17. Makes level 19. Sun up in New York 20. It must be scratched 21. Where people live 25. Swiss river 26. Buddy 27. One of two equal parts of a divisible whole 29. Shrek is one

30. Egyptian unit of weight 31. Fiddler crabs 32. Carroll O’Connor’s TV wife 39. No longer having life 41. Former OSS 42. A way to emit sound 43. Mandela’s party 44. Adult female chicken 45. U. of Miami’s mascot 46. Southeastern Chinese people 48. Casino game 49. Amos Alonzo __, US football coach 50. Joint connecting two pipes at right angles 51. Will Ferrell film 52. River in NE Scotland

1. Occur 2. Show up 3. Capital of Taiwan 4. Former French coin 5. Some are bad 6. Monetary unit 8. Package (abbr.)

9. Indian religious person 11. Crew 14. Antidiuretic hormone 15. Makeshift 18. Baseball box score stat 19. Make a mistake 20. Not moving 22. Even distribution of weight 23. Clumsy person

24. Paddle 27. Worked the soil 28. Alias 29. Plant cultivated in Peru 31. Side-blotched lizards genus 32. Wild dog 33. Immoral act 34. Pound 35. Manning and Lilly are two 36. Put on the shelf for now 37. Baltimore ballplayer 38. Cuddle 39. Dashes 40. Related on the mother’s side 44. Witch 47. Kilogram force (abbr.)

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NEWS

Page 10 | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

News Briefs Community Education Corner

55+ Defensive Driving

If you have taken an eight-hour defensive driving course in the past, you can now renew your insurance discount by taking this refresher course. There is no driving and no test. This is an online class on Zoom. You will need to stop by the Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Education office to pick up materials needed before the class.

An e-mail will be sent with material pick up info and the link. You will receive a certificate in the mail to provide to your insurance company.

Tuesday, June 30, 5-9 p.m.

COR Robotics Camp

We will rent out your choice of the following kits during registration process: EV3 Lego Mindstorms Kit (Grades 3-8), Tetrix Prime Robotics Kit (Grades 5-10), or two CoDrone Programmable Drone Kit (Grades 3-10). Participants must have computer, internet access and an optional tablet or smart phone to run this camp at home. Once registered, a link to the digital curriculum is shared via email from COR Robotics.

Curriculum package includes objectives and will guide children as they build or program the robot or drone.

Kits need to be picked up and returned to the Community Education office located at the Sauk Rapids Middle School, 901 First St. S., Sauk Rapids. You will be notified when the kit is ready for pick up with instructions to do so.

Kit deliveries occur once a week. Your kit is available for rental for up to seven days. Before receiving your kit, the kit and its components will be sanitized.

To register or for more information on programs and costs, contact Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Education at https://www.isd47.org/ ce or 320-258-1577.

Public Notice NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Benton County Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on July 7th, 2020 in the Commissioner’s Room, Benton County Government Center, Foley, at approximately 9:00 a.m. to hear the following: Trilogy Properties of MN LLC requesting approval of a 4 lot final plat entitled “Benton Bluff” in the Rural Agricultural District. Pursuant to Section 10. The affected property is described as follows: NW1/4 SW1/4, Section 1, Granite Ledge Township. *Effective immediately, the Benton County Board may conduct its regular, special or emergency meetings by telephone or other electronic means, as permitted by MN Statutes §13D.021. Some or all Board members may participate by telephone or other electronic means until further notice. At least one member of the County or the County Administrator will be present during meetings at the County Board’s regular meeting location, which is the County Board Room in Foley, unless otherwise noted on meeting notices. Pursuant to MN Statutes §13D.021, Subdivision 3, the County will provide the means for persons to electronically monitor such meetings remotely.

To conform to MDH and CDC guidelines to minimize gatherings we are requesting public comment in written form prior to the County Board meeting; 1. You may submit written testimony, which must be received by 3pm July 6th, in one of two ways: a. Email Roxanne Achman at Roxanne.Achman@ co.benton.mn.us b. Mail comments to the Benton County Department of Development, Attn: Roxanne Achman, 531 Dewey St, PO Box 129, Foley, MN 56329.

2. If you wish to make in-person comments during the public hearing, the Board room capacity may be limited to maintain social distancing standards. Anyone who physically attends the hearing will be required to follow social distancing while waiting in the hallway and will be allowed to enter the Board room one at a time to testify during their chosen hearing.

Please limit your testimony and if possible, have one person testify if your for a group shares the same concerns.

3. You may attend the meeting remotely by following the instructions below. a. The public can join the meeting from their computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/834170141 b. You can also dial in using your phone.

Phone #: 1 (571) 317-3122 Access Code: 834-170-141 c. New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting. com/install/834170141 FR-26-1B

GSDC calls for I-Awards nominations

ST. CLOUD – The Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation is accepting nominations and applications for the 2020 Innovation Awards for non-profit organizations and for-profit companies.

Four GSDC I-Awards of $1,000 each will be presented at a meeting of all GSDC investors Nov. 5.

One award will go to an emerging for-profit company, one award to an established for-profit company, and one award to each of two non-profit organizations.

A strategic focus of the GSDC is to foster and promote innovative thinking amongst area businesses and organizations. The GSDC I-Award recognizes St. Cloud area for-profit and non-profit organizations employing innovation to solve problems and create opportunities.

Information about nominating a candidate and applying for the awards can be found at https://www. greaterstcloud.com/innovation.

Nominations will be accepted through July 31.

DNR camping, lodging reservation change

ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is shortening its window for making reservations for camping and lodging to 120 days, or four months. Previously, customers could reserve campsites, cabins, yurts, tipis, and lodging facilities up to one year in advance. The change will take effect July 1.

While the agency originally planned to make the

change in fall 2020, operational uncertainties with the COVID-19 pandemic and associated changes to cleaning protocols necessitate making the change sooner.

The policy change is based on customer survey results, data analysis, and a desire to improve fairness and equity in the reservation process.

DNR surveys indicated that most visitors plan their overnight visits to parks and recreation areas a few months before they go and that many could not plan an entire year in advance.

The operational uncertainties of COVID-19 have created new challenges for the State Parks and Recreation Area system, including the recommendation to provide a 24-hour gap between lodging reservations.

The pandemic also forced the agency to cancel more than 25,000 reservations due to necessary closures in April-May 2020. A shorter reservation window will facilitate implementation of the gap between lodging reservation and any future operational changes that may be needed.

All reservations made before July 1 will be honored, even if they are for a date beyond the new 120day reservation window. However, if a customer needs to change a reservation, a rebooking will only be possible within the new 120-day window.

For more information about the reservation window change, contact the DNR Information Center at 888-646-6367.

Crime & Public Safety

Sauk Rapids man charged with criminal sexual conduct

sary of her disappearance, or https://www.tricountrythe St. Cloud Police De- crimestoppers.org. partment reminded area residents they continue to Multiple agencies investigate the disappearST. CLOUD – A ance of Shannah Boiteau. respond to gunfire Sauk Rapids man has ST. CLOUD – The The woman was last seen been charged with two Sauk Rapids Police Dein the area of Interstate 94 felony counts of crimipartment assisted St. and Stearns County Road nal sexual conduct.

Cloud officers in 74 in southwest Timothy Lighthall, two shots-fi red St. Cloud. Boite37, was arrested June calls this week. au, of Chippewa 13 after a summons was AccordFalls, Wisconfiled with Stearns Couning to a release sin, was last seen ty District Court in Sepfrom the St. shortly before tember 2019. Lighthall Cloud Police 3:30 p.m. June is charged with penetraDepartment, law 22, 2016, after tion of a victim under e n f o r c e m e nt running from a the age of 16 and penwas called to vehicle driven etration and contact with the 1100 block Shannah Boiteau by her boyfriend. a person under the age of 13th Street Boiteau of 13. He faces a maxiSouth, St. Cloud, around is described as 5 feet, 7 mum sentence of 30 8:30 p.m.

June 23 and inches and 135 pounds. years imprisonment and 3:30 a.m.

June 24. In the She last had brown hair. a $40,000 fine for each Tuesday incident, police Anyone with informacount. located a vehicle with tion regarding Boiteau’s According to a damage consistent with disappearance is urged criminal complaint, a to call SCPD at 320-251- two bullet impacts. They Search continues for stepchild disclosed sex1200 or contact Tri-Coun- were informed two males ual abuse information missing female were seen running from about Lighthall to a soST. CLOUD – Fol- ty Crime Stoppers at 320- the scene, and that the velowing the fourth anniver- 255-1301, 800-255-1301 hicle was believed to be unoccupied at the time.

Roughly seven hours later, law enforcement was CITY OF SAUK RAPIDS SAUK RAPIDS, MINNESOTA again dispatched to the ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS area and observed a house 2020 Bituminous Seal Coating that sustained damage NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sealed Proposals will be received by the City Administrator of the City of Sauk Rapids at 250 Summit Avenue North, Sauk Rapids MN 56379, consistent with several until 11:a.m. on Wednesday the 8th day of July, 2020, at which time they will be publicly bullet impacts. When police checked, no one was opened and read aloud, for consideration by the City Council at their next regular meeting. inside.

Approximate quantities.

Officers did not locate Bituminous Material for Seal Coat (CRS-2) GALLONS 16,050 any suspects nor were any Install Bituminous Seal Coat FA-2 SY 64,187 people injured as a result All bids must be submitted on the Proposal Form provided in accordance with the Con- of the gunfire.

SCPD believes the intract Documents as prepared. Copies of the Contract Documents can be obtained by sending a request to the City of Sauk Rapids, Public Works Department, 360 Summit Avenue North, cidents are connected and Sauk Rapids, MN, 56379. are investigating.

No bids will be considered unless sealed and filed with the City Administrator of the City Anyone with inforof Sauk Rapids, endorsed upon the outside wrapper and accompanied by a Bid Security in the mation regarding the inamount of (5%) of the Bid to be forfeited as Liquidated Damages in the event that the Bid is accepted and the Bidder fails to promptly enter into a written Contract, provide documentation cidents is urged to call SCPD at 320-251-1200 of the required insurance and/or the required Bond.

Bidding documents for project are available by contacting public works at 320-258-5319. or contact Tri-County Direct inquiries to City of Sauk Rapids, Public Works Director, Pete Eckhoff 320-258- Crime Stoppers at 3205319.

255-1301, 800-255-1301 The City of Sauk Rapids reserves the right to reject any or all Bids, to waive informalities or https://www.tricountryand to award the Bid in the best interest of the City. No Bids may be withdrawn for a period of crimestoppers.org. forty-five (45) days.

The Minnesota State

BY ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL Ross Olson, City Administrator Patrol also assisted at the City of Sauk Rapids, Minnesota scene. cial worker and the Child Advocacy Center is September and October 2018.

Lighthall was interviewed at that time and denied allegations of sexual abuse.

In March 2019, a relative of the child reported information heard from the child to law enforcement.

The mother of the child gave a statement to law enforcement that same week.

The complaint states the incidents of abuse are believed to have taken place from January 2012 through September 2018 within the city of St. Cloud.

Lighthall is being held at the Stearns County Jail on $50,000 bail. His next court appearance is July 13.

Public Notice

Publish: Sauk Rapids Herald June 20 and 27, 2020 FR-25-2B

NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | Page 11

Road issues cause frustration Lake Andrew residents voice concerns

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – Numerous calls of concern were received by Watab Township board members from residents of the Lake Andrew development prompting the township to call a public meeting June 17. Roads have remained unfinished since development stages began nearly 15 years ago.

Because the roads have not been brought to township specifications for the supervisors to formally approve adoption, the board expressed the problem is out of their control. State law dictates government entities cannot spend public money on private property.

Supervisors hosted the listening session to answer questions.

“They have beautiful homes, so they should have good roads,” said Julie Johnson, board chair.

“It is a great neighborhood with great families of all ages, and it is quiet.

I cannot understand why Scott (Jarnot) did not do the roads right away. We, as a board, want the development finished just like the residents do.”

While development rules have changed in the

last 20 years, application of the new laws cannot be applied retroactively to the Lake Andrew development. Benton County approved its rezoning and final plat in 2006, Johnson said.

In a separate interview, Lake Andrew’s developer, Scott Jarnot, said the roads are his next priority. Up until two weeks ago, Jarnot said he was focused on working with the wastewater system in the development. He also said he has been holding off on doing much with the roads until the houses are built out within the development.

“Heavy truck traffic can cause a lot of prob-

lems,” Jarnot said. “I had a pumping truck coming in every other day twice a day for a while with the wastewater system. Between that and any construction trucks, that is why I have held off.”

Along the way, Jarnot said he has made repairs to the most troubling areas of the roads. In November 2019, Jarnot said some of the storm water drain piping was pulled up and repaired as well as other major heaving in the roads, particularly on Lake Drive.

Jarnot said the streets within the development have been swept recently, and he will fix more of the areas within the next

week. As time progresses, Jarnot will look into any possible tear-ups or milling that needs to be done and move forward from there.

The June 17 meeting with residents was recessed, as residents would like Jarnot and the township attorney, Mike Couri, of Couri & Ruppe in St. Michael, to be present to answer questions and discuss the plan going forward. Johnson said she would send a letter along with the copy of the meeting minutes to Jarnot and request he submit a timeline of his plan going forward to the township within the next four to six weeks.

Police Report Sauk Rapids Police Department June 16 2329 hrs: Officers observed a male driving an all-terrain vehicle near the intersection of Sixth Avenue North and Second Street North. Driver was advised of rules regarding driving in town.

animal complaints, 8 welfare checks, 8 permits, 7 suspicious activity reports, 6 civil complaints, 6 harassments, 5 alarms, 4 thefts, 4 extra patrol, 3 child, 3 accidents, 3 domestics, 3 traffic hazards, 3 fireworks, 3 driving, 2 missing persons, 2 property, 2 disturbances, 2 disputes, 2 escorts, 2 suicidal persons, 2 predatory offender registries, 2 frauds, 2 ordinances, 2 vehicles and 2 attempts to locate.

June 17 2332 hrs: Officers received a report of a male lying in the roadway near Benton Drive North and Highway 15. Upon arrival, male said he tripped Rice Police Department but was not injured. He was with a female, and they were walking home. June 17 2304 hrs: Officers observed Both denied needing assistance. a female with car trouble on County Road 2 under the Highway 10 overJune 20 2151 hrs: Officers were called pass. Officers provided lights as the feto assist St. Cloud Police Department male waited for her dad to arrive. in restraining an arrestee prior to being transported to the Benton County Jail. Incidents: 10 various calls, 5 assists, 4 traffic stops, 4 thefts and 2 suspicious Incidents: 32 assists, 18 various calls, activity reports.

17 medical calls, 11 traffic stops, 9

Pulse on People

Students earn degrees following spring semester

BRAINERD – Area students have completed study at Central Lakes College following spring semester.

James Burke, of Rice, received a diploma of occupational proficiency in heavy equipment operation and maintenance. Rebecca Schefers, of Rice, graduated with high honors and received a certificate in agricultural commodities marketing. Mitchell Braith, of Sauk Rapids, graduated with high honors and received an associate’s degree. Alexis Roberts, of Sauk Rapids, graduated with honors and received an associate’s degree in graphic design.

INDIANOLA, Iowa – Cassidy King, of Rice, graduated with a master’s degree in criminal justice from Simpson College. Commencement was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and is scheduled for Oct. 17.

MENOMONIE, Wis. – Rice resident Taylor Burchell earned a bachelor’s degree in hotel restaurant and tourism from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Menomonie.

Students earn dean’s list honors for spring semester ST. PETER – Rice residents Ella Benoit, Olivia Mokhtary and Mikayla Zaske were named to the dean’s list at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter for achieving a GPA of 3.7 or greater.

ABERDEEN, South Dakota – Jacob Schloe, of Sauk Rapids, was named to the dean’s list at Northern State University in Aberdeen for achieving a 4.0 GPA. AMES, Iowa – Sauk Rapids residents Isabella Carpenter, Ashlyn Kotcho and Hannah Weber were named to the dean’s list at Iowa State University in Ames for achieving a GPA of 3.5 or greater.

RIVER FALLS, Wis. – Sauk Rapids residents Brooke Butkowski and Katie Lucas were named to the dean’s list as University of Wisconsin in River Falls for earning a GPA of 3.5 or greater.

WAVERLY, Iowa – Isabelle Albers, of Sauk Rapids, was named to the dean’s list at Wartburg College in Waverly for achieving a GPA of 3.5 or greater. Albers is a Foley High School graduate.

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Page 12 | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE OF VOLUNTARY MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE RECORDING: Recorded MORTGAGE SERVICER: by statute; That no action not redeemed under section April 6, 2018 Benton County M&T Bank or proceeding has been 580.23 is 11:59 p.m. on Recorder, Document No. M O R T G A G E D instituted at law or otherwise October 7, 2020, unless that 428665.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: to recover the debt secured date falls on a weekend or ASSIGNMENTS OF 160 Dewey St, Foley, MN by said mortgage, or any part legal holiday, in which case MORTGAGE: Assigned to: 56329 thereof; it is the next weekday, and Lakeview Loan Servicing, TAX PARCEL I.D. #: PURSUANT to the unless the redemption period LLC. Dated January 14, 13.00141.00 power of sale contained in is reduced to 5 weeks under 2020 Recorded February LEGAL DESCRIPTION said mortgage, the above MN Stat. Secs. 580.07 or 7, 2020, as Document No. OF PROPERTY: described property will be 582.032.

441194.

LOT ONE (1), BLOCK sold by the Sheriff of said M O RT G A G O R ( S ) T R A N S A C T I O N ONE (1), ALSO A STRIP county as follows: RELEASED FROM AGENT: Mortgage OF LAND 40 FEET WIDE DATE AND TIME OF FINANCIAL OBLIGATION Electronic Registration BY 150 FEET LONG, SALE: April 7, 2020 at ON MORTGAGE:None Systems, Inc. LYING EAST OF LOT 1, 10:00 AM “THE TIME ALLOWED BY T R A N S A C T I O N BLOCK 1 AND BEING PLACE OF SALE: LAW FOR REDEMPTION AGENT’S MORTGAGE THE WEST HALF (W 1/2) Benton County Sheriff’s BY THE MORTGAGOR, I D E N T I F I C A T I O N OF FIRST AVENUE (NOW Office, 581 Highway 23 THE MORTGAGOR’S NUMBER ON VACATED) IN FOLEY’S Northeast Foley, MN P E R S O N A L M O R T G A G E : REARRANGEMENT OF to pay the debt then secured R E P R E S E N T AT I V E S 100307110009143509 THE TOWN (NOW CITY) by said Mortgage, and taxes, OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE LENDER OR BROKER OF FOLEY, BENTON if any, on said premises, and REDUCED TO FIVE AND MORTGAGE COUNTY, MINNESOTA. the costs and disbursements, WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORIGINATOR STATED COUNTY IN WHICH including attorneys’ fees ORDER IS ENTERED ON MORTGAGE: Everett PROPERTY IS LOCATED: allowed by law subject to UNDER MINNESOTA Financial, Inc. D/B/A Benton redemption within six (6) STATUTES, SECTION Supreme Lending O R I G I N A L months from the date of said 582.032, DETERMINING, R E S I D E N T I A L PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF sale by the mortgagor(s), AMONG OTHER MORTGAGE: $108,007.00 their personal representatives THINGS, THAT THE AMOUNT DUE or assigns unless reduced to MORTGAGED PREMISES AND CLAIMED TO BE Five (5) weeks under MN ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL BENTON COUNTY CEMETARY MEETING NOTICE DUE AS OF DATE OF Stat. §580.07.

INCLUDING TIME AND DATE TO DWELLING OF LESS The Benton County Cemetery Association Annual Meet- NOTICE, ing will be held Wednesday, July 8, 2020 @ 1:00 p.m. at Wil- TAXES, IF ANY, PAID VACATE PROPERTY: If THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE the real estate is an owner- NOT PROPERTY USED liams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, 324 Second Avenue BY MORTGAGEE: $109,690.23 occupied, single-family IN AGRICULTURAL South, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379.

That prior to the dwelling, unless otherwise PRODUCTION, AND ARE R-26-2B commencement of this provided by law, the date ABANDONED.” mortgage foreclosure on or before which the Dated: February 11, 2020 MAYHEW LAKE TOWNSHIP MEETING NOTICE proceeding Mortgagee/ mortgagor(s) must vacate the Lakeview Loan Servicing, The Mayhew Lake Township Monthly Meetings for July, Assignee of Mortgagee property if the mortgage is LLC August and September will be at The Townhall at 8:00 p.m. complied with all notice not reinstated under section Mortgagee/Assignee of Lawrence Thell, Clerk requirements as required 580.30 or the property is Mortgagee

THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that default has occurred in conditions of the following described mortgage: DATE OF MORTGAGE: April 3, 2018 MORTGAGOR: Quentin Markfort and Crystal Markfort, husband and wife.

MORTGAGEE: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Everett Financial, Inc. D/B/A Supreme Lending.

DATE AND PLACE OF

Mayhew Lake Township.

R-26-2B

REGULAR VIRTUAL MEETING SAUK RAPIDS CITY COUNCIL SAUK RAPIDS GOVERNMENT CENTER, 250 Summit Ave N. Monday, June 8, 2020 6:00PM MINUTES **Due to COVID-19 and the resulting emergency declared by the Minnesota Governor, this meeting was conducted virtually under Minn. Stat. 13D.021. This meeting was shown live on Charter channel 181.** 6:00 P.M. 1. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance Mayor Kurt Hunstiger called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Mayor Hunstiger performed roll call. All members present.

Due to the meeting being conducted virtually, Mayor Hunstiger reminded everyone to please identify themselves prior to addressing the Council. He noted that all applicable votes will be conducted via a roll call vote.

2. Additions or Changes to the Agenda Todd Schultz noted that he sent out a revised ordinance for agenda item 8-B prior to the start of tonight’s meeting.

3. Approve the Agenda Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to approve the Agenda as amended. Motion carried unanimously.

4. Approve Minutes A. 5-26-2020 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded

by Councilperson Seamans to approve the 5-26-2020 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes. Motion carried unanimously with Councilperson Thronson abstaining.

5. Receive and File A. 5-5-2020 Regular HRA Meeting Minutes Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded

by Councilperson Ellering to receive and file the 5-5-2020 Regular HRA Meeting Minutes. Motion carried unanimously.

6. Mayor’s Communications 7. Audience Items/Visitors Total Time Limit 2 Minutes for Items NOT on the Agenda Due to COVID-19, this meeting was conducted virtually, so in-person testimonies were not possible. Residents were asked to contact Ross Olson, City Administrator, if they had any concerns that they would like shared with the Council.

8. Public Hearings A. Applicant City of Sauk Rapids Purpose To Consider An On-Sale Intoxicating License, OnSale Intoxicating Club, Special Sunday License, and OffSale 3.2 Beer License Within the City of Sauk Rapids For The License Year of July 1, 2020-June 30, 2021 1. Open Public Hearing 2. Close Public Hearing Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by

Councilperson Thronson to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously.

3. Consider Action Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded

by Councilperson Thronson to approve the resolution for annual Intoxicating On-Sale, Intoxicating Special Sunday, Intoxicating Club, and 3.2 Beer Off-Sale Licenses for the license period of July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021 for the establishments listed on the resolution.

B. Applicant City of Sauk Rapids Purpose To Consider An Ordinance Revision That Would Allow Electronic Swimming Pool Covers in Lieu of Fences In Certain Situations 1. Open Public Hearing 2. Close Public Hearing Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Seamans to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously.

3. Consider Action Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to approve the following language for in-ground pools in Sauk Rapids: “For an in-ground pool, an automatic pool cover can be used in lieu of fencing requirements provided it is certified and complies with American Society of Testing Materials F1346-91 standard or successor standard”. Motion carried unanimously.

C. Applicant All Energy Solar Purpose To Consider an Interim Use Permit Request to Install a 346.68KWDC Rooftop Solar Array at 5 Industrial Boulevard. Use Permits Are Required for Solar Projects in the Industrial District.

1. Open Public Hearing 2. Close Public Hearing Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded

by Councilperson Thronson to close the public hearing.

Motion carried unanimously.

3. Consider Action Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded

by Councilperson Seamans to table the Hardware Distributers Solar Request until the next regularly scheduled meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

9. Consent Agenda A. Approve and Adopt a Resolution Designating Polling Places for Remainder of 2020 Elections and Approve Canceling the August 10th Regularly Scheduled City Council Meeting B. Approve 2020 Plumbing and Mechanical Contractor Licenses C. Approve Change Order #1 to the 2020 Bob Cross Park Improvements D. Approve and Authorize Public Works to Advertise for the 2020 Sealcoating Project E. Approve and Authorize Reappointment of Mayor Hun-

USSET, WEINGARDEN AND LIEBO, P.L.L.P. Attorneys for Mortgagee/ Assignee of Mortgagee 4500 Park Glen Road #300 Minneapolis, MN 55416 (952) 925-6888 37 - 20-001478 FC THIS IS A C O M M U N I C AT I O N FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT OF M O R T G A G E FORECLOSURE SALE Pursuant to the provisions of Minnesota Statutes 580.07, the foregoing foreclosure sale is postponed until July 28, 2020, at 10:00 AM at the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, 581 Highway 23 Northeast Foley, MN, in said county and state.

Dated: June 22, 2020 Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee USSET, WEINGARDEN AND LIEBO, P.L.L.P. Attorneys for Mortgagee/ Assignee of Mortgagee 4500 Park Glen Road #300 Minneapolis, MN 55416 (952) 925-6888 37-20-001478 THIS IS A C O M M U N I C AT I O N FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. R-26-1B

stiger to the St. Cloud Metropolitan Transit Commission Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded

by Councilperson Thronson to approve consent agenda A items 9A-9E. Motion carried unanimously.

10. Regular Agenda A. Change Order #1 2020 River Avenue Improvements Scott Hedlund noted that construction on the River Avenue project started on June 1st. Hedlund said that one of the early activities has been starting to grade the storm pondR and the parking lot. He explained that a significant amountM of debris is being encountered in the excavations thus farH and more is anticipated. Hedlund stated that the debris isp mixed with fill material making much of it regulated fill in B its current state that would need to be landfilled.

Hedlund said that SEH and City Staff have been re-A viewing options with the Contractor as to how to best man-A age the debris laden soil to limit the amount that needs toM t be landfilled.

Hedlund said that he unfortunately does not have allt of the details and official numbers worked out in orderV to rquest approval tonight, so he will have to come backB with the actual numbers for the change order for approvalV at a future meeting. Hedlund noted that he is estimatingA $100,000 for extra costs with this change order, which isA within the contingency budget. He stated that EngineeringT A will continue to work closely with staff. p 11. Other Staff Items A. City Facilities Discussion Ross Olson stated that he is continuing to closely monitor the Governor’s Executive Orders as it relates to COVID-19. Olson said that he is working closely with the Mayor and the other area city administrators to figure out when it makes the most sense to re-open the City facilities to the public. Olson suggested noted that the consensus amongst the area cities is to re-open to the public on Monday, June 15th.

Olson noted that the plan would be to open to the public on June 15th, but this would not include the Community Room. The lobby for City Hall and the Police Department would be open as well as the Public Works facility. In person meetings with staff would need to be scheduled in advance.

Olson suggested that in-person City Council meetings resume on June 22nd.

12. Other Council Items and Communications NONE 13. Approve List of Bills and Claims Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded

by Councilperson Sauer to approve the List of Bills and Claims. Motion carried unanimously.

14. Adjournment Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded

by Councilperson Thronson to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

Mayor Hunstiger adjourned the meeting at 6:52 p.m.

R-26-1B

PUBLIC NOTICES

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | Page 13

SAUK RAPIDS-RICE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 47 REGULAR SEMI-MONTHLY BOARD MEETING Monday, May 18, 2020 A semi-monthly meeting of the Sauk Rapids-Rice ISD 47 Board of Education was called to order by Chair Butkowski Monday, May 18, 2020 at six-thirty p.m. remotely as provided by Minnesota Statute 13D.021.

ROLL CALL Members present included Braun, Butkowski, Hauck, Holthaus, Loidolt, Morse and Solarz. Others present were Superintendent Sinclair, Director of Teaching and Learning Bushman, Director of Business Services Johnson, SRRHS Principal Nohner, SRRHS Assistant Principal Logrono, and PV Principal Froiland.

APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA A motion was made by Braun, seconded by Morse and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to approve the meeting’s “Agenda” as amended.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Solarz, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made by Hauck, seconded by Loidolt and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to approve the meeting’s “Consent Agenda” as amended.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Solarz, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None ACTION APPROVAL OF THE DIRECRTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AGREEMENT A motion was made by Holthaus, seconded by Braun and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to approve the Agreement for Holly J. Schoenherr, Director of Human Resources and Administrative Services, which will be effective June 15, 2020 through June 30, 2023 in accordance with the individual At Will Employee Agreement provided. This position supports the District’s 650+ staff members and 4,500 students with district-related human resources and administrative service functions.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Solarz, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None APPROVAL OF INDIVIDUAL AGREEMENTS A motion was made by Braun, seconded by Hauck and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to approve the Individual Agreements for the Communications Specialist, Controller, District Operations Assistant, Payroll Clerk, Student Data Specialist, and Superintendent’s Administrative Assistant.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Solarz, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None ADDENDUM APPROVAL OF INDIVIDUAL AGREEMENT A motion was made by Hauck, seconded by Morse and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to approve the Individual Agreement for the Human Resources Assistant.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Solarz, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None APPROVAL OF SAUK RAPIDS-RICE ASSOCIATION (SRRPA) AGREEMENT A motion was made by Hauck, seconded by Solarz and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to approve the Sauk RapidsRice Principals’ Association Agreement.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Solarz, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None AUTHORIZATION TO DESIGNATE THE IDENTIFIED OFFICIAL WITH AUTHORITY (IOwA) A motion was made by Morse, seconded by Hauck and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to authorize Andi Johnson, the District’s Director of Business Services, to act as the Identified Official with Authority (IOwA) for Sauk RapidsRice Public Schools. The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) requires that school districts annually designate an Identified Official with Authority to comply with State Access Control Security Standard 1.0, which states that all user access rights to Minnesota state systems must be reviewed and recertified at least annually. The Identified

Official with Authority will assign job duties and authorize external user’s access to MDE secure systems for their local education agency (LEA).

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Solarz, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None

SAUK RAPIDS-RICE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 47 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING Wednesday, May 27, 2020 A Special meeting of the Sauk Rapids-Rice ISD 47 Board of Education was called to order by Chair Butkowski Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at five p.m.

The meeting was held remotely as provided by Minnesota Statute 13D.021 ROLL CALL Members present included Braun, Butkowski, Hauck, Holthaus, Loidolt, Morse, and Solarz (5:15 p.m.). Others present were Superintendent Sinclair, Director of Business Services Johnson, and Director of Buildings and Grounds Berghuis.

APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA A motion was made by Braun, seconded by Hauck and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried by a margin of six to approve the meeting’s “Agenda”.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None ACTION APPROVAL OF PARKING LOT PROJECT CONTRACTS – MHES A motion was made by Holthaus, seconded by Braun and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the

motion was unanimously carried to approve the Mississippi Heights parking lot project contracts. Bids for the Mississippi Heights Elementary parking lot were opened

by ICS Consulting on May 19, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in the District Office Board Room. The District’s Program Manager - ICS Consulting, provided their recommendation for contract approvals and issuance for the project based on bid results and analysis.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None APPROVAL TO MOVE TO A CLOSED SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEVELOPING OR CONSIDERING OFFERS OR COUNTER OFFERS FOR THE PURCHASE OR SALE OF REAL OR PERSONAL PROPERTY AS PERMITTED BY MN STATUTE 13D.05, SUBD. 3(c)(3).

While in closed session, the Board of Education will develop and consider an offer or counteroffer to purchase real property particularly identified as parcel numbers 090025401, 090025700, 090025800, and 090025600.

A motion was made by Solarz, seconded by Hauck and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to go into closed session at 5:25 p.m.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Holthaus, Morse, Solarz and Butkowski Voting Against: None

CLOSED SESSION The meeting took place in the District Office Conference Room with Board members participating remotely. The meeting was closed as permitted by 13D.05, subd. 3(c)(3) to discuss the development or consideration of offers or counteroffers for the purchase or sale of real or personal property.

A motion was made by Solarz, seconded by Morse and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried by a margin of six to leave the closed session and return to the Board Room (open meeting) at 7:15 p.m.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Morse, Solarz and Butkowski Voting Against: None ADJOURNMENT With no further business appearing before the Board, a motion was made by Braun, seconded by Morse and unanimously carried by a margin of six to adjourn the meeting at 7:18 p.m.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Morse, Solarz and Butkowski Voting Against: None Respectfully submitted, Lisa J. Braun, Board of Education Clerk R-26-1B

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Benton County Planning Commission will conduct public hearings on July 9th, 2020 the Commissioner’s Room, Benton County Government Center, Foley, and beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Planning Commission will hear the following: 1. 7:00 p.m. Phase 2 LLC requesting to amend Conditional Use Permit #04-030 for a Multiple Unit Development (MUD) within The Cove in order to remove and combine several lots within the MUD and to allow for shoreland alterations. Pursuant to Sections 7.14.8 and 11.8, The affected property is described as follows: Lots 1-4 and Lots 10-11, Block 1, and Outlot G, The Cove, Section 27, Watab Township.

2. 7:05 p.m. Phase 2 LLC requesting approval to rezone Lot 11, Block 1, The Cove, consisting of 3.88 acres, from B, Business District to R-3, Single Family Residence District.

Pursuant to Sections 11.9. The affected property is described as follows: Lot 11, Block 1, The Cove, Section 27, Watab Township.

3. 7:10 p.m. Phase 2 LLC requesting approval of a 6 lot preliminary plat entitled “The Cove 3rd Addition” in the R-3 Residential District and MUD District. Pursuant to Sections 7.13 and 10.7. The affected property is described as follows: Lots 1-4 and Lots 10-11, Block 1, and Outlot G, The Cove, Section 27, Watab Township.

ANYONE wishing to be heard with reference to the above will be heard at this meeting. *Effective immediately, the Benton County Planning Commission may conduct its regular, special or emergency meet-

ings by telephone or other electronic means, as permitted by MN Statutes §13D.021. Some or all Commission members may participate by telephone or other electronic means until further notice. At least one member of the Planning Commission or the County Department of Development Director will be present during meetings at the Planning Commission’s regular meeting location, which is the County Board Room in Foley, unless otherwise noted on meeting notices. Pursuant to MN Statutes §13D.021, Subdivision 3, the County will provide the means for persons to electronically monitor such meetings remotely.

To conform to MDH and CDC guidelines to minimize gatherings we are requesting public comment in written form prior to the Planning Commission meeting; 1. You may submit written testimony, which must be received by 3pm on the hearing date, in one of two ways: a. Email Roxanne Achman at Roxanne.Achman@ co.benton.mn.us b. Mail comments to the Benton County Department of Development, Attn: Roxanne Achman, 531 Dewey St, PO Box 129, Foley, MN 56329.

2. If you wish to make in-person comments during the public hearing, the Board room capacity may be limited to maintain social distancing standards. Anyone who physically attends the hearing will be required to follow social distancing while waiting in the hallway and will be allowed to enter the Board room one at a time to testify during their chosen hearing.

Please limit your testimony and if possible, have one person testify if your for a group shares the same concerns.

3. You may attend the meeting remotely by following the in-

structions below. a. The public can join the meeting from their computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/687827373 b. You can also dial in using your phone.

Phone: 1 (872) 240-3212 Access Code: 687-827-373 c. New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting. com/install/687827373 FR-26-1B

ADOPTION OF THE DONATION RESOLUTION A motion was made by Braun, seconded by Holthaus and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to adopt the Donation Resolution. It is recommended by the Minnesota School Board Association that a Donation Resolution be adopted in the Action area of the Agenda rather than in Consent.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Solarz, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None AUTHORIZATION OF THE TECHNOLOGY 1:1 LEASE AGREEMENT A motion was made by Holthaus, seconded by Hauck and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to authorize administration to enter into a lease agreement for replacement of 1,250 iPads and cases for Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School. This lease is be a four-year agreement with a purchase price of $597,437.50 to Apple Financial Services.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Solarz, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None PUBLIC INPUT There was no public input at 7:33 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT With no further business appearing before the Board, a motion was made Morse, seconded by Butkowski and per MSBA guidance and Minnesota Statute 13D.021 the motion was unanimously carried to adjourn the meeting at 7:41 p.m.

Voting For: Hauck, Loidolt, Braun, Solarz, Holthaus, Morse and Butkowski Voting Against: None Respectfully submitted, Lisa J. Braun, Board of Education Clerk Sauk Rapids-Rice ISD 47 R-26-1B

SPORTS

Page 14 | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Baseball’s plan to return

PHOTO BY ANNA HINKEMEYER

Sandlot Legends member Kyle Turck connects with a pitch June 23 at Bob Cross Park in Sauk Rapids. Turck and other players started the 2020 season June 15 after permission was granted from the city of Sauk Rapids.

Softball is back Season will continue through September

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – The parking lot and fields were full, and cheers could be heard all around Bob Cross Park June 23 as the Sauk Rapids Softball Association summer leagues had commenced.

“I have been waiting for months,” said Kyle Turck, of St. Cloud. “It’s fun. You can’t watch anything at home and this is sports.

You get that whole ca-

maraderie thing. It’s just ball players doing what they love to do.”

Turck joined the Sandlot Legends team a few years ago as a way of getting back on the field. He has been playing baseball and softball since he was 6 years old.

The Sandlot Legends team is a mens league – one of 80 teams within the association that includes mens co-rec and over 50. SRSA hosts games from 6:15-9:15 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Dennis Kenning is the treasurer and scheduler for the association.

Kenning said they retained all but two of the teams as the COVID-19 pandemic complicated the spring and summer seasons.

“Those two teams will be back next year,” Kenning said. “They are not folding, just concerned with the virus and the precautions so they decided to take a break this year.”

A typical season for Sauk Rapids softball be-

gins in late April, but the pandemic pushed the season back. The season will now extend through September with fall leagues being canceled.

“It is really nice we will still get a threemonth season,” Turck said. “I figured we would get the chance to play eventually, but our season kept getting smaller.

I appreciate them extending it.”

Kenning said it is great to see people taking

Softball page 15

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After months of fruitless negotiations between the players union and the owners, Major League Baseball has decided to stick to the tenets of an agreement made in March and push forward with an abbreviated version COLUMNIST of the 2020 baseball SPORTS

BY ANDY THAYER season. This is happening, and it is happening soon.

Here is what you need to know: Players will report to team facilities in their home cities for a second spring training beginning July 1.

The regular season will be 60 games long and will start July 23-24. The players will be paid full pro-rated salaries, or roughly 37% of the amounts stated in their contacts for this season.

Some significant changes to the on-thefield product are being adopted for this truncated season. First and foremost, no fans will be in the stands. The designated hitter will be used in both leagues. In extra innings, each half-inning will begin with a runner on second base. This runner will be the person who made the final out in the prior half-inning, and the pitcher will not be charged with an earned run if that runner scores. Major league rosters will also be expanded to 30 players to help provide depth in case of injury or outbreaks.

Because training complexes in Florida and Arizona have been shut down due to extreme spikes in positive COVID-19 cases in those states, teams and players have been scrambling to establish a formal system for handling positive tests. It will be strange watching a baseball game where players cannot chew tobacco or sunflower seeds, high-five each other or lick their fingers, but all those guidelines make sense during a pandemic. Players and team personnel who are not actively participating in the game will also be forced to sit in the stands, at least 6 feet apart from one another. Finally, players will be screened for temperature multiple times per day and tested for the novel coronavirus multiple times per week, with anyone testing positive being immediately quarantined.

For fans of the Twins, this season is going to represent a great opportunity for the team.

Key players like centerfielder Byron Buxton and starting pitcher Rich Hill were recovering from serious injuries back in March, but both are likely to be at full strength when the season begins. The Twins also project to have the easiest schedule in the entire league, with 40 of their 60 games coming against woeful American League Central Division opponents and the other 20 coming against the mediocre National League Central Division. Seriously, over half of the Twins’ games will be against bottom feeding teams like the Tigers, Royals, White Sox, Reds and Pirates, and the team will not face other American League powerhouse teams like the Yankees, Astros, A’s or Rays at all during the regular season. The table is set for another legitimate run at a division championship if the Twins can stay healthy.

There is no telling how this is going to all play out. A recent outbreak among players and staffers that were working out at the Phillies’ spring training facility in Clearwater, Florida, served as a grim reminder of the relentless nature of the coronavirus. Hopefully the safety precautions that have been put in place will allow everyone involved with the 2020 MLB season to stay healthy and safe.

Page 16 | SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

HONORING 4-H

Michael Rothfork

Parents: David and Denise Rothfork, Foley Age: 18 4-H Club: Busy Bees Years in Club: 12 Tell us about your involvement in 4-H. I show pigs.

What is your favorite 4-H activity? The 4-H lunch stand at the fair because of the people you get to talk to.

Tell us about a memorable moment. I learned how to help others who cannot do things themselves.

Describe one of your favorite projects. When I built the bench for the woodwork section.

What have you learned during your time in 4-H? I have learned leadership, kindness and how to be involved in a group.

Who is your 4-H mentor, and what did you learn from them? My mom. She taught me I have to be a leader and follow through with what you say.

The 4-H motto: "To Make the Best Better."

Ashley Betker

Parents: Brent and Jennifer Betker, Royalton Age: 13 4-H Club: Elk River Critters Years in Club: 8

Who is your 4-H mentor, and what did you learn from that person? I have a lot of great mentors, but my cousin, Katie Nelson, is the one who started me on showing Charolais cattle and lambs. She taught me how to clip and what to feed.

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Describe one of your favorite projects. I built carpetball. I learned new skills from my grandfather and got to spend quality time with him while building it. It is a super fun game, and I love to teach my family and friends about it.

What have you learned during your time in 4-H? To create friendships that will last a lifetime. I have also learned leadership skills through being an officer in my club. While making projects for the Benton County Fair, I have taught myself plentiful life skills, such as how to use power tools, how to embroider and sew, and how to take quality pictures.

Who is your 4-H mentor, and what did you learn from that person? My 4-H mentor is Tasha Ackerman because she has taught me many life skills through 4-H. She is always willing to help me, give me advice and encourage me to be the best version of myself.

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Parents: Tristan and Mercy Reding, Foley Age: 18 4-H Club: Pioneers Years in Club: 8

Tell us about your involvement in 4-H. Showing Tell us about your involvement in 4-H. I am a beef cattle and fashion review. member of Benton County 4-H Shooting Sports and Wildlife team. I enjoy creating projects for the What is your favorite 4-H activity? Going to the photography, crafts and fine arts, and entomology county fair and state fair with my cattle, meeting project areas. I am an officer in my club, and I have new people and learning new things. been an ambassador and camp counselor in the past.

Tell us about a memorable moment. I have learned many things through 4-H, but growing What is your favorite 4-H activity? Shooting leadership and confidence is a big one. sports and wildlife. It is something unique and allows me to meet people who are also interested Describe one of your favorite projects. My heifer in trapshooting, archery and nature. last year was my favorite one to work with. It was great to see her progress and to show her at other Tell us about a memorable moment. While out junior events. taking pictures for 4-H, I decided to take pictures with a crystal ball. During that experience, I What have you learned during your time in 4-H? learned to always hold it in the shade or to at least Overall, to become a better person, like the motto, be careful how you hold it. I was taking a picture of “to make the best better.” I have learned things like a waterfall, and the sun focused through the ball proper animal nutrition, hair growth on cattle, how and burned my hand, which made an eventful to fit a heifer and how to sew. story to my now favorite picture I have taken.

The 4-H Club pledge: "I pledge ...

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