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Same Local Coverage Since 1854.
Saturday, March 27, 2021
2 Second Ave. S., Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379
Vol. 166, No. 51
Christians celebrate Easter, church resurrection
Catch me if you can:
After pandemic shut down, area pastors detail comeback BY JAKOB KOUNKEL | STAFF WRITER
Priscilla’s
will to live, PHOTO BY ELLARRY PRENTICE
Priscilla Neubert visits with her youngest son, Scott Neubert March 16 in Sauk Rapids. The longtime Sauk Rapids resident spent weeks in the hospital after she had emergency pacemaker surgery and then contracted the coronavirus.
Churches page 2
fish again
Sauk Rapids woman gets back on the ice after surviving COVID-19 at 81 BY ELLARRY PRENTICE | STAFF WRITER
SAUK RAPIDS – A will to live brought Priscilla Neubert from a hospital bed to the ice to do what she loves: catch fish. Five months ago, the 81-year-old Sauk Rapids resident was in a hospital fighting
FOLEY – Now that churches can operate without capacity restrictions, pastors, church staff and congregants are looking forward to celebrating the resurrection of Jesus alongside the resurrection of the in-person church service this year. When the coronavirus pandemic and government restrictions forced churches to close their doors just before Easter last year, they had to get creative. Many churches offered online worship and drive-by services, but to some area pastors, there is no replacement for in-person camaraderie, fellowship and celebration especially during Holy Week. “This is the super bowl of Christianity,” said the Rev. Jim Von Wald, pastor at New Life Church in Foley. “The birth of Jesus is certainly very important, but his death and resurrection are the crux of what’s provided for a relationship with God.”
for her life after contracting the coronavirus. Determined to cast a line again, Neubert rode the waves of COVID-19, progressing from barely breathing to reuniting with her rod and reel. “My mom doesn’t give up,”
Scott Neubert said of the woman who not only raised him but is his best friend. “She’s got a horn like a rhino and a hide to match.” Away from home for two months, Neubert was discharged from the St. Cloud Hospital Dec. 7, 2020, after surviving COVID-19.
Neubert page 2
PHOTO BY JAKOB KOUNKEL
The Rev. Tom Knoblach, priest at Sacred Heart Parish in Sauk Rapids, reflects on one of the Stations of the Cross where Jesus carries the cross March 24 at Sacred Heart Parish in Sauk Rapids. Knoblach is expecting larger turnout for the Easter Masses as some coronavirus regulations are lifted.
School district to cut spending by $1.5 million Reduction in response to projected multi-million deficit BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER
SAUK RAPIDS – On the heels of a projected $4.4 million deficit, the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District is making plans to reduce spending.
PUBLIC NOTICES
At its March 22 meeting, the school board unanimously approved a recommendation from Superintendent Bradley Bergstrom that involves a threepronged approach to tackle the multi-million-dollar shortfall anticipated for fiscal year 2022,
• Assumed Name - Premier Reefs - pg. 13 • Assumed Name - Laurel Leaf Yoga & Retreats - pg. 13 • Probate Notice - Blaesing - pg. 14 • Sauk Rapids-Rice Reg. Board Meeting, March 8 - pg. 14 • City of Sauk Rapids Reg. Minutes, March 8 - pg. 14
which runs from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. The district plans to reduce spending by $1.5 million or greater, to utilize $1.5 million in federal relief dollars and to use $1.5 million from unreserved savings in the general fund to
shore up the budget. “We’re tightening the belt in terms of making sure we’re being financially responsible with our budget,” Bergstrom said. The federal relief dollars are one-time funds the district received in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
School board page 3
• Minden Township Property Assessment Meeting - pg. 14 • Probate Notice - Moeller - pg. 14 • Probate Notice - Theede - pg. 13 • Sauk Rapids-Rice Schools Advertisement for Bids - pg. 14 • City of Sauk Rapids Advertisement for Bids - pg. 18
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NEWS
Page 2 | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
The Rev. Dave Genberg, associate pastor at Discovery Church in Sauk Rapids, said he sees a parallel between the resurrection of Jesus during Easter and the resurrection of church services this year. While the situation is not ideal, Genberg believes it is important that churches can open their doors to everybody this year. The Rev. Tom Knoblach agreed with Genberg that Easter is an essential Christian celebration – one that cannot be fully substituted online, nor should it be, he said. “At Easter, we don’t simply remember that Jesus was; we rejoice that he is,” Knoblach paraphrased from Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, noting the importance of fellowship during celebration. … “There are some sacramental experiences you can’t replicate across an electronic platform.” Von Wald said Easter is especially important to his church’s congregation. It represents a relational value with God – an important tangible and metaphorical value that highlights a relationship with God, with other people and with themselves. The Rev. Jim Von Wald The loosening of capacity limits is also somewhat of a return to normal – whatever that looks like going forward, he said. “Unfortunately, we have a real health issue that’s been politicized in many ways,” Von Wald said. “That’s impacted the church.” As a result, he said as The Rev. Dave Genberg many as 50% of churchgoers might not return, and churches may close down, unable to bounce back. Von Wald also said Easter is important to revive the church and its congregation to what it was before the pandemic. But Von Wald, Knoblach and Genberg agreed the pandemic, while it presented challenges, was not all bad The Rev. Tom Knoblach for their congregations. It was an impactful reminder that church does not have to be about the brickand-mortar structure, but rather worship and celebration as a community. “We got a deeper understanding of why we celebrate and the ways we can be united even when we’re not physically together,” Knoblach said. Von Wald pointed to the translation of the word church from Greek to English. He said it was originally translated as a place or a building until it was later translated to mean a gathering or group of people. Through the shut down, Von Wald said it became imminently clear church is not just a place to go, but also a gathering of people with common values for worship. Even so, the pastors agreed in-person services are valuable for the church and their communities. They bring people together in a way that online services cannot, and they offer the faith community to dive deep into scripture together. “Being together brings accountability,” Von Wald said. “Jesus said, ‘Where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them.’ … He puts this idea out there that there’s something special that happens when people get together.” Von Wald, Knoblach and Genberg hope Easter marks a return to the full bevy of church services and functions that it once offered. While they know the holiday is important so the infrastructure stays in place, it is more important their congregations have access to everything they need including a place to worship. “We’re using a special day to inform people that we’re taking a step toward the way we’d like it to be rather than what it has been,” Genberg said.
Neubert from front
It was the answer to her youngest son’s prayers. “That was my Christmas present I prayed for,” Scott said. “That’s all I wanted was my mom home. I told the good Lord, ‘You bring her home; I’ll take care of her.’” Since her recovery, Scott has also taken his mother outdoors to partake in one of her favorite activities. The pair went ice fishing March 4-7 and again March 11-14 in Park Rapids. The mother and son have gone on several fishing trips to places like Bemidji, Detroit Lakes and Park Rapids as well as North Dakota and South Dakota. Neubert, who has lived in Sauk Rapids for 55 years, ran a daycare for several years. She also worked for Coborn’s and ServiceMaster before retiring. Widowed since 1992, she mothered five children (one deceased) and has eight grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren. Born in 1939, Neubert grew up about a mile from the lake. As soon as she was finished with her chores, she would make for the water with her fishing pole. Her penchant for fishing carried into her adult life. Neubert likes to fish for bluegill, crappie and perch. She has also caught many a trout and salmon in Canada and once caught a sturgeon weighing nearly 100 pounds at Lake of the Woods. “It’s just so much fun pulling up those things,” said Neubert, a Clear Lake native who enjoys fishing all seasons. “I’ve been fishing ever since I was old enough to hold a pole.” Last fall, Neubert began to wonder if she would ever hold a fishing pole again. On Oct. 7, as she was eating supper, she started to feel unwell, and things took a turn for the worst.
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Churches from front
PHOTO BY ELLARRY PRENTICE
Priscilla Neubert fishes in Park Rapids during the first weekend of March, three months after surviving COVID-19. Neubert enjoys ice fishing in northern Minnesota and has fished twice in Park Rapids this month.
“We noticed her breathing was really, really bad,” Scott said. Family took Neubert to the hospital and learned her heart was pumping at just 30 beats per minute. Att 9:30 that night, Neueubert was told she needed eeded a pacemaker. Just a few hours later, she got one. At 1 a.m., after Neubert had settled into her hospital room, her heart stopped. Doctors revived her and then performed emergency surgery to install a pacemaker. Nine days later, Neubert was transferred to a care facility for rehabilitation following the heart procedure. During that time, she contracted COVID-19. Neubert developed a severe cough and had difficulty breathing. She had to be placed on continuous oxygen and was readmitted to the hospital. “It was bad,” Scott said of the first few days after his mom’s COVID-19 diagnosis. “She didn’t talk. It was killing me. It was a shame to see
“Just enjoy life. Have fun. Don’t put it off.” - Priscilla Neubert the lif life getting th taken out of somebody, but you couldn’t be there to be by them. Emotions just go every direction.” Though family could not be at Neubert’s bedside, they called her several times a day and sent photos to lift her spirits. “There were a lot of sad days,” Scott said. “When you’re up there and you’ve got nobody, it’s hard to keep from getting depressed. You want to keep her drive going, something to want to get out (of the hospital) for. I called her every day – three, four times a day – just to keep that energy level going.” At first, Neubert had doubts if she would survive. Heart and respiratory issues had been too much to deal with at one time.
“I didn’t know what to do,” she said. Encouraged by her family, Neubert clung to hope as she thought about the possibility of being with loved ones again and doing all the things she enjoys: fishing, sewing, baking and trips to the casino. She also thought about her three beloved dogs and how excited they would be when they saw her come through the door again. Within seven days, Neubert made a complete turnaround. She asked for the oxygen mask to be removed because she could breathe normally again. “She did phenomenal,” Scott said. “She just had a will to live. Impressive. It was like a new lease on life.” Neubert was transferred to inpatient rehabilitation. Due to low levels of oxygen, she had eexperienced muscle weakn weakness. A team of therapists helped her regain her strength, and she w was discharged three w weeks later. “I got through it,” Neubert said. Home health ca care assisted Neubert for a short time. Today, she co continues to live independently. d Her sons, Scott and Dave, and Scott’s wife, Joel Marie, visit her daily to offer assistance. Neubert said she is thankful for the love and support of caring family members and for a caring nursing staff. “Couldn’t ask for anything better,” she said. Neubert said she will keep catching fish as long as she can and making the most of every day. Her journey through COVID-19 reminded her that family, laughter and a hopeful attitude are everything. She is choosing to live for today and to seize every opportunity, especially if it involves a fishing trip. “Just enjoy life,” Neubert said. “Have fun. Don’t put it off.”
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NEWS from front
There are ground rules in terms of how the district can spend those funds, Bergstrom said. Board chair Ryan Butkowski said he likes the three-tiered approach to reducing the deficit. “It’s not going to be a huge, huge, ‘Oh my gosh, you’re cutting $4.5 million in one year?’ It’s a phased-in approach,” Butkowski said. “But we can’t continue to just deficit spend, deficit spend, deficit spend.” Board members lamented the spending cuts but implored administration to compile a list of proposed budget adjustments and present them at the April 26 board meeting. “It makes me sad,” Bergstrom said. “I wish we didn’t have to do this, but at the end of the day, there is a need for us to make sure that we continue to provide the excellence in education that we’re accustomed to in this district.” Budget adjustments are necessary in order to be financially stable, now and in the long term, Tracey Fiereck, director of business services, told the board. Fiereck said the administrative team will identify not only budget adjustments or spending cuts, but revenue opportunities that will move the district toward a balanced budget. Student achievement will remain the focus and priority of decision making. “Our goal will be to have the least impact on students,” Fiereck said. Last week, the administrative team held question-and-answer sessions for staff across the district. Bergstrom and Fiereck stressed the importance of being transparent in the budget adjustment process.
“We really want people to be able to ask us questions,” Fiereck said. The need to tighten the belt on the district’s finances comes as the district anticipates at least three consecutive years of deficit spending in the general fund – a shortfall of $3.2 million in 2019-20, a projected shortfall of $2.2 million in 2020-21 and another projected shortfall of $4.4 million in 2021-22. The 2021-22 budget anticipates that general fund revenues of $52.8 million, including state aid and property taxes, will not be enough to cover projected expenses of $57.2 million. The general fund balance is expected to drop from $31.4 million to $27 million between June 30, 2021, and June 30, 2022. The fund balance would represent 25% of what is budgeted. “Ouch,” said board member Jan Solarz. Fiereck responded. “That sums it up, Jan,” she said. The district’s total budget – encompassing the general fund, food service fund, community service fund, building construction fund and debt service fund – is projected to end the 2022 fiscal year with revenues of $62.6 million and expenses of $89 million, resulting in a deficit of $26.4 million and a total fund balance that would drop from $58.5 million in June 2021 to $32.2 million in June 2022. While resident growth is increasing, it is being outpaced by declining open enrollment, causing the district to lose the perpupil funding it arelies on. Increases in district costs continue to outpace funding from the state, Fiereck said. As of March 1, the district had a total enrollment of 4,388 students. Next school year, the district estimates that enrollment will dip to 4,322 students. On a positive note, the district estimates it will have 325 kindergarteners in 2021-22, up from previous budgets that estimated 300.
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Sunday, March 28, 7:30 p.m. – Central Minnesota Idol. Presented by Youth Chorale of Central Minnesota. Online at www.youthchorale.org. Voting began March 20 and concludes during the online competition. Tuesday, March 30, 6 p.m. – Overeaters Anonymous. Call Joyce at 320-761-2275 or Donna at 320-291-7251 for meeting place. Visit oa.org for more information. Wednesday, March 31, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. – American Red Cross Blood Drive. Discovery Church, 700 18th St. N.W., Sauk Rapids. Make an appointment by calling 1-800-733-2767 or visiting redcrossblood.org. Wednesday, March 31, 5 p.m. – Meat raffle. Benefitting Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm golf teams. Hosted by the VFW Auxiliary. Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids.
Saturday, April 3, 9 a.m. – Overeaters Anonymous. Call Joyce at 320-761-2275 or Donna at 320-291-7251 for meeting place. Visit oa.org for more information. Sunday, April 4 – Easter.
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Sunday, March 28, 7 p.m. – Sauk Rapids Softball Inc. Annual Meeting. For 2021 softball season. New teams welcome. VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids. For more information call Dennis at 320-290-6190.
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Saturday, March 27, 3 p.m. – Ham Bingo. Hosted by the Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992 Auxiliary. Benefitting veterans and veteran families. Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids.
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Saturday, March 27, 1-2:30 p.m. – How to Use Zoom. Presented by the Morrison County Historical Society. Class takes place online via Zoom. Class participants will receive emailed instructions on how to install the platform on their computers and join the event. Register at www.morrison-county-historical-society. square.site or by calling 320-632-4007.
Friday, April 2, 9 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Good Friday Food Shelf Drive. Replenish the shelves. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.
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Saturday, March 27, 9 a.m. – Overeaters Anonymous. Call Joyce at 320-761-2275 or Donna at 320-291-7251 for meeting place. Visit oa.org for more information.
Thursday, April 1, 7 p.m. – Sauk Rapids American Legion Post 254 Monthly Meeting. Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids.
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Wednesday, March 31, 6-7 p.m. – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.
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and that hasn’t come to fruition,” Butkowski said. “There’s budget adjusting that needs to be done.” Solarz wondered if the dwindling fund balance is partly due to the pandemic. “There are things that probably weren’t directed coded to COVID-19 relief (funds),” Butkowski said. “It cost us a lot of money to get kids in the buildings, but we were steadfast, and we did it because we heard that’s what the community wanted.” Next year’s budget will need to be adopted by the school board prior to July 1. “These kinds of things, they’re never fun,” Bergstrom said of budget cuts. “Nobody likes to do them. My hope is that the process we have developed will help people to clearly understand where we’re going, what we’re looking at.” While the conversations are not fun, they are certainly necessary, Butkowski said. Board member Mark Hauck agreed. “It’s my hope that we can keep those lines of communication open through this process and get ideas on the table, lean on each other for getting ideas on how we can reduce the spending and increase our revenue,” he said. “We’ll get through this.”
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The graduating class is estimated to be 290. The district anticipates that general education aid from the state will increase just 1% in fiscal year 2022. Budget adjustments will likely need to be made over multiple years, according to Fiereck. “Folks, this isn’t going to go away in one budget cycle,” she said. Butkowski agreed. “This is a multi-year process,” he said. “We’re going to be right back here in January (2022) looking at these numbers again saying, ‘OK, so how much this time are we going to have to reduce?’” The deficit comes as a ramification to changing the district’s enrollment policy in 2018, Butkowski said. When the district closed enrollment to students residing outside its bounds, the board had earmarked about $4.5 million from the unassigned general fund to offset the bounce of revenue lost to enrollment, he said. But that cushion was not enough. “Did we know the numbers were going to be about $10.5 million over three years? No,” Butkowski said. The hope was resident growth would offset the loss of open enrollment revenue. “But, clearly, here we are three years later,
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NEWS
Page 4 | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
Getting creative to
come out on top PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Senior Christian Iriarte practices playing the trumpet using personal protective equipment Feb. 22 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Band had to wait longer to start practicing as the instrument personal protective equipment was in short supply.
SRR band, choir programs work through challenges of COVID-19 BY TIM SPEIER | STAFF WRITER
SAUK RAPIDS – For the band and choir programs at Sauk RapidsRice High School, returning to in-person learning is bringing on a new set of challenges as they not only work to follow the guidelines placed on students but also work through additional guidelines placed on the performing arts. As people have used online meeting platforms in the past 12 months for work, school or to see friends and family, they have experienced the limitations of these platforms. Programs are limited in the number of people allowed to talk at the same time. For most classes, this is not a problem. That is unless the class needs all students to participate si-
multaneously. This problem became evident as SRRHS choral director Steven Mick began teaching his choir students through Zoom. “It’s not the same in a large group situation,” Mick said. … “It’s not easy for the kids. It’s not easy for the teachers, the staff, administration, the parents. It’s not easy for anybody.” Mick said he struggled to find ways to make the virtual classroom experience enjoyable for all of his students during the pandemic. To work through this, he recorded himself playing the piano or singing and then sent that recording to students for them to practice. The students then recorded themselves rehearsing their assignments and
2 Second Ave. S., Suite 135 Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 (320) 251-1971 Sauk Rapids Herald (USPS 21690) is published weekly, 52 times a year, by Star Publications, 2 2nd Ave S., Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379-1651. Second-class Postage paid at Sauk Rapids, MN 56379. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Sauk Rapids Herald, 2 2nd Ave S, Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379-1651.
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sent in their recordings. “Doing it at home has been challenging and depressing because all you hear is yourself,” said Arica Moriak, a SRRHS freshman. Challenges continue in the school setting, according to SRRHS band director Zach Sander. Both Sander and Mick said they follow the recommendations of the National Federation of State High Schools Association as well as the Minnesota Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The NFHS recommends students sing or play instruments for no longer than 30 minutes indoors, specialized masks be worn and bell covers used on instruments to help mitigate aerosol spread. “My passion for band has never diminished, but wearing a mask while playing isn’t exactly the easiest thing,” said Riley Meinert, SRRHS freshman. “Being so spread out from everyone is OK, as long as I get to keep doing the thing I love.” To achieve the required spacing, both teachers said they utilize the school’s auditorium and Performing Arts Center, depending on the size of the group that is practicing. “While we’re (learning) in person, we’re play-
ing with at least 6 feet spacing,” Sander said. “The study recommends 9 feet instead of 6 in front of trombones, which makes for some interesting Tetris.” Before the pandemic, students would be in close proximity to one another and the acoustics of the performers would all come from one direction. Now that musicians are spread apart in the auditorium, the sound has changed. Both instructors said they are working on arranging students in a way that will not affect acoustics as much. “That’s a big part of what we’re working on in
trying to figure out how to account for the physics of sound,” Sander said. Mick said maintaining social distancing has affected the way some choir students are singing, especially their confidence in hitting their notes. “Social distancing has made it hard to hear others within our section, which makes it harder to know if we’re singing the right notes,” senior Jayden Steinemann said. The choir may need a few more practices, but Mick’s confidence in his students’ abilities is unfaltering as he said there is a strong music program in the SRR district. That
strength was recognized at the state level when SRR’s concert choir was invited to perform at the 2021 Minnesota Music Educators Association. “This is a prestigious event,” Mick said. “It’s the highest honor that a Minnesota ensemble is able to earn, whether it’s band, choir or orchestra. To be selected to perform is a huge deal. It’s like our basketball team going to state.” As both groups at SRR continue to make progress in these uncertain times, their students remain positive and thankful for the opportunities they have to do what they enjoy.
Sauk Rapids-Rice High School choir director Steven Mick hosts class outside Sept. 16, 2020, to allow his students to practice singing. Mick was not able to get the entire choir together until February when SRRHS students returned to full time in-person learning.
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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | Page 5
Board approves maintenance projects Middle school will see exterior wall rehabilitation BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER
The Sauk Rapids-Rice d School Board approved two major projects at its March 22 meeting. Combined, the two projects will cost more than $1.3 million. The board approved redoing the roof over Misa sissippi Heights Elementary School at a cost of $727,580. Submitting the lowest of five bids, Central m Roofing Company of Minr neapolis will perform the work. The project will ret place the single-ply rubber membrane roof installed on the original building when it opened in 1995d 96, with a four-ply built-up roof. Brad Berghuis, buildings and grounds director, said the work is expected to start in early June and will last until mid-August. A couple summer programs will be relocated until July, or until work is far enough along so people can safely enter the building.
Berghuis said a built-up roof – composed of alternating layers of felt and tar, with a final layer of gravel embedded into the top coat of asphalt to help it stay in place – should last at least 30 years, or about twice as long as a membrane roof, for a good return on investment. “A built-up roof is tried and true in our climate,” Berghuis said. The new roof will come with a 20-year warranty. The board also approved spending $587,700 for the first phase of an exterior wall rehabilitation project at the Sauk RapidsRice Middle School. Submitting the lowest of six bids, Ebert Construction of Corcoran, will perform the work which is expected to take place in phases over multiple years. The project will involve replacing the existing masonry face brick and pink-glazed block, which is deteriorating, and associated materials. Pieces of block have fallen off in some areas, according to Berghuis. “What it comes down to is the insulation is sandwiched in between the interior wall and the brick on the outside, causing the moisture really no place to
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SAUK RAPIDS – Visual messaging on a Sauk Rapids roadway may caution drivers to slow down come summer. The Sauk Rapids City Council gave its consensus to add a bid alternate to summer roadwork at its March 22 council meeting in Sauk Rapids. The alternate includes striping upgrades to 11th Street North at an estimated cost of $30,000. After bids are received, the council has the option to approve this alternate with the Fourth Avenue North overlay project. City engineer Scott Hedlund, of SEH Inc., cited safety concerns regarding the roadway after discussion with the public works committee and city staff. He said restriping the roadway in conjunction with the overlay project may allow the city to complete the project at a reasonable cost. Striping on 11th Street North consists of a broken yellow line. The alternate project would include adding a double yellow line, or no passing zone, along with edge lines, designating the parking area. The edge line would be 6 inches wide rather than the traditional 4 inches to reinforce that the area was not a driving lane. Driving lanes would also be reduced from 12 to 11 feet. Crosswalks would also be repainted. Hedlund said the visual striping could calm traffic and slow drivers in the area. Council member Nick Sauer supported the idea as he said speed is an issue in some areas of the city, and testing the striping initiatives here could give the city insight as to whether this type of mitigation strategy would work to reduce speed in other areas. Council member Dottie Seamans asked what could be done about the children who cross the roadway in the middle of the block rather than using the designated crosswalks, and council member Jason Ellering said a potential cause is the access point through the existing fence to the Pleasantview Elementary School playground. Ellering said he did not recall the new school plans having an opening in the same area. Mayor Kurt Hunstiger said he would discuss the fence opening with the district at a monthly meeting to see if a remedy could be found earlier. If approved, the city would like the striping project completed by mid-June rather than late summer. A second alternate to the overlay project will be to add fiber reinforcement to Fourth Avenue North. This would increase the road project by about $40,000. Hedlund said fibers help firm the bituminous overly and reduce cracking, but the council will need to weigh the cost to benefit as they may want to use the money to repair the roadway subsurface near the wetlands. In other council news: – Approved allowing the city of Foley to buy capacity in the St. Cloud area sewer system by approving an amendment to the pool capacity agreement. The city of Sauk Rapids is not selling any portion of its capacity; however, Foley’s flow will use some of the same infrastructure that Sauk Rapids uses to transport waste to the treatment plant. – The city plans to open building rentals at Sauk Rapids Municipal Park beginning in May, and the compost is planned to open in early April. Compost permits are available through city hall. More information on both of these items will be available once details are finalized.
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Each grade level, Hauck said, has different needs and will settle on a furniture package, or kit, that works for them. Trying out various options now will leverage future decisions about new furniture for the other two elementary schools. – As of March 18, the district had six COVID-19-related absences among staff, reported Dr. Holly Schoenherr, director of human resources. That number has dropped significantly from November 2020, when nearly 100 staff were absent due to either contracting the virus or being potentially exposed. COVID-19-related absences are greater among students. Between March 11-18, there were 126 COVID-19-related absences. There has been a slight uptick in COVID-19 cases among students, but community case numbers may be overstated due to a lag in reporting from earlier weeks, Schoenherr said. Between March 11-18, the district reported nine active COVID-19 cases among students, up six from the end of February. There were zero COVID-19 cases among staff. Almost all staff members who intended to receive the COVID-19 vaccine have received it, Schoenherr said. Schoenherr said she is aware that new strains have started to have significant impacts in some parts of the state, but Sauk RapidsRice has not yet noticed an impact. Bergstrom said the district remains hyper-vigilant of the prevalence of COVID-19 in the community and the region. Checking the numbers has become part of his morning routine. It has been eight weeks since the district returned all school buildings to inperson learning. So far, the district has not seen any significant changes that would impact the learning model at this time, according to Bergstrom.
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Page 6 | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
Summer bloomers to plant in late spring While gardeners enjoy spring blooming daffodils and tulips planted last fall, they can plant other bulbs, corms, tubers or rhizomes that will bloom in mid or late summer. Tuberous begonia, caladium, canna, dahlia, freesia, GREEN AND gladiolus, oxalis and GROWING IN BENTON calla lily are most COUNTY common. Many BY LINDA G. TENNESON of these plants are natives of Mexico, Central America, South America or Africa where they can safely remain in the ground year-round. Benton County is growing zone four. Plants listed for growing in this zone or a lower number may be grown here and left in the ground over winter. Any plant with a higher zone number must be dug up in the fall and stored in a warmer location. The alternative is to grow them in large planters that can be moved indoors to a cool location that remains above freezing over winter. While some of these plants will tolerate partial shade, most will do their best in full sun with regular watering and provide large, attention-getting blooms. Included in this category because of its similar bloom time is the liatris, commonly known as Gayfeather or Blazing Star. This native plant to the United States remains in the ground year-round or until it has multiplied and needs to be divided. Bees love the white, rose or lavender flowers that open at the bottom of the stem like a gladiolus and progress to the tip. It is not fussy about watering and grows to 2 feet tall or more depending on the variety. It will tolerate partial shade and blooms starting in July. While these plants are all attractive, they offer differences in size and form. Dahlias are one of the most popular summer bulbs, blooming from mid-summer until fall. They range in size from 1-7 feet tall and have a variety of bloom forms, some of which may reach 10 inches wide. The taller varieties may need staking or protection from strong winds. Gladioli are also popular with blooms that attract hummingbirds. Like the liatris, they are tall with blooms that start from the bottom of the flower stalk and progress upward. Dahlias and gladiolus offer the widest range of bloom colors. Tuberous begonias have a long bloom period from July to September. Caladiums technically do not bloom, but their leaves provide a bloom-like variety of color. Iris is also planted in the spring and does well in zone four. They do need to be checked and treated for iris borer damage because this insect will eat the rhizome or root to feed its larvae. Cannas have exotic looking leaves and blooms. These summer bloomers recommended for zone four or higher should not be planted until the danger of frost has passed. As with other newly planted bulbs or plant roots, a temporary cover of chicken wire or hardware cloth will keep squirrels and rabbits from digging and eating them. A layer of mulch may also disguise the fact that the soil has been disturbed and trick rodents from disturbing the roots until they have begun to grow. The planting depth and spacing often differs for each plant, so consult the package directions or the University of Minnesota Extension Yard and Garden website for detailed information. Linda G. Tenneson is a University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener and Tree Care Advisor.
EDITORIAL
An apology, an apologetic for submission Dear daughter, protected and near his heart to be loved. She You’re pretty amazing. Strong, hardwas made second to help him reflect God’s working, smart and caring. While you excel image. Sin distorted God’s design but the past anything my imagination dreamed you promise of Jesus and what he accomplished to be at this age, you continue trusting in on the cross gives us Jesus’ redemptive powGod’s plan for your life and wanting to know er to operate in the way God designed us rehim more. That takes the cake. But even so, gardless. So, he created us, we distorted it, I owe you an apology. I’ve only recently disand he created for us a rescue plan. No matter covered God’s beautiful plan for submission. what male influences you are surrounded by, Had I known earlier, I would have made it Jesus gives them the power to operate in the LIFE BY FAITH such a point to learn together how to foster design God gave to them, and that is what a gentle and quiet spirit. All of the things BY MERCY NYGAARD we target our prayers toward. We try to help you are already are pretty terrific; however, them achieve the ability to be who God crewe must balance them with other attributes. God cre- ated them to be with our quiet and gentle spirit. ated females to be soft, helping and kind. Not focused Your calling may never be marriage or children, on outward appearance but rather your adorning should but we can learn a great deal from Sarah’s submission be that of your inner self, the disposition of the heart, the to Abraham. Whatever the Lord calls you to, submit to unfading beauty of a meek and quiet spirit, which is pre- his will just as Jesus submitted to his father’s will. This cious in God’s sight (1 Peter 3:4). beautiful submission reflects God’s triune nature. I’ve learned how important it is to adopt an attitude Abbigail Dodd’s, a brilliant writer, wrote, “One of Christ Jesus, who took the very nature of a servant great lie told to women is that their deepest loyalty must and who said, “I am gentle and humble in heart.” I love be to women; that women’s interests are in conflict with you, and I know you love, but sometimes we forget the the interests of men and children. Here’s a loving correcbasics of love which is described in 1 Corinthians 13. tive: a woman’s loyalty is to her maker and savior. Every “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it other loyalty flows from that. Men and women are made does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor oth- for his glory and as a part of his purposeful plan.” ers, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps I know you do not advocate for team women (as no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but there is a team man and team woman the enemy tries to rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, create). The reminder is to know God’s higher plan for always hopes, always perseveres.” man and woman, for his glory and our utmost attempts “Love always protects,” means many things and to operate in the way God designed us distinctively. one of those is there is a time to keep silent and a time Everything you are going through right now is trainto speak (Ecclesiastes 3:7). A gentle and quiet spirit does ing you for what God created you to be. He will put stubnot mean you are always silent and can’t be strong or born, seemingly unloving, loud, authoritative people in stand strong on your convictions. But, we don’t speak your path. Don’t fret on how you are to respond but how as the world speaks. When the weak are threatened, we you respond matters. Pray, seek the Lord, grab his word must defend (Psalm 82:3). It also means to protect your- and trust what he has to say about when to keep silent self and to not remain acquiescent when you are being and when to speak. Trust what he has to say about a genharmed. Ask good questions if you feel authority is lead- tle and quiet spirit and overlooking an offense (Proverbs ing you to harm. Proverbs 22:3 tells us the prudent fore- 19:11). Walk worthy of your calling with all humility sees danger and takes precautions. and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another “Love always trusts,” also means many things. Be- in love (Ephesians 4:1-2). Always be ready to give the cause you love God, trust in him with all your heart and reason you have hope with meekness and respect (1 Petrust in his enduring, living word that is in fact God (John ter 3:15). 1:1). Proverbs tells us a woman that is folly seizes men People who contend God’s word are all around us. and he follows her (Prov 7:13,22). And 1 Peter tells us Titus 2:3-5 declares an important mandate to teach the that a wise woman, like Sarah, submits to her husband, young women to submit to their husbands. Why? That and to God’s beautiful design (3:4-6). the word of God may not be reviled. So, what is God’s beautiful design? Did God creWould you like to know one way to muzzle those ate Adam and then woman to which the woman reacted who contend God’s word? Submit to your dad, your auby exclaiming, “What the heck? Why was I created sec- thority, your future husband and ask for more and more ond, and why did Adam get to name me woman?” No, grace to obey this glorious charge. Other’s will wonder of course not. She was ecstatic that Adam gave her a why you’re so confident in your position and why so chance to be created. many want to learn from you. My apology is I didn’t tell For because Adam was formed first, Woman was you this sooner. Submission, when done God’s way, is a able to be created from his own flesh and bones. Wom- beautiful reflection of Jesus. I’m positive you can learn en, “out of the side of,” or better described, “alongside” to operate in the ways God desires us to sooner than I men, are God’s beautiful design. did because you can do all things through Christ who Remember that rib my dear! Woman was not strengthens you (Philippians 4:13). made from the head to rule over man, and she was not I love you always, made from his feet to be trampled by him. She was made Mom from his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be
Letter to the Editor
Congress should pass transportation infrastructure
Rick Larkin, Bloomington As an emergency manager, I have dedicated my career to protecting and preserving the safety of people living across our state. But I am concerned because every year we are seeing increasingly severe weather and flooding. This means, that unless we are building our communities for future risk, we will see more of our friends and neighbors suffering from natural disasters. One area we must focus on is transportation infrastructure. After years of underfunding, the nation’s aging transportation infrastructure is in dire need of major repairs and upgrades. Things like roads, bridges, tunnels, railways, canals and airports. It has to be a priority because failing to do so puts people’s lives at risk and threatens our economy. If
roads are flooded by record rainfall, trucks cannot deliver food. If air traffic is grounded for days by snow or ice, it slows package delivery and business. If a bridge or culvert has been washed out, emergency medical crews cannot help those in need. The list goes on. That is why Congress should pass a transportation infrastructure bill that prioritizes resilience. This means projects should incorporate protective features to reduce the risk of recurring damage. Additionally, communities will need funding to do resilience planning so they know where to spend public dollars effectively. Lastly, states should be allowed to use funds from existing programs to support resilience measures. This is the kind of forward-thinking planning, investing and building we must do to keep our communities safe in the years to come.
EDITORIAL
Page 8 | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
What is all the hype about Benton Economic Partnership? Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. is a public-private partnership and established at a 501c(3) nonprofit organization in 2016. Our organization if funded through memberships by the county, cities, townships, businesses, non-profits and individuals with an overall goal of promoting economic development in Benton County. Benton Economic Partnership collaborates with our member partners to proactively facilitate business growth, redevelopment and reinvestment in our community. BEP is responsible for attracting potential new companies to Benton County and retaining existing businesses in our community. By at-
BENTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP BY AMANDA OTHOUDT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
tracting new businesses to Benton County, it helps create and distribute our overall tax base, thereby keeping property taxes manageable and helps to create new quality jobs in our community. Essentially, economic development projects developed in the
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and awareness that BEP is here to help. Here are just some of the services we offer: – BEP provides advice and assistance to individuals interested in starting their own businesses. – Connecting small businesses to local, regional and state resources. Whether it is navigating the municipal approval process through the city or county, exploring or applying for gap financing through tax increment financing, property tax abatement, or applying for state grant and loan programs, we can help facilitate this process. – Administering the revolving loan fund program on behalf of the county. This is a low-interest loan program for manufacturing and service businesses located anywhere in Benton County. Funds can be used for fixed asset purchases such as land, buildings, machinery and equipment, building modifications, or equipment that provides energy efficiencies. – Client confidentiality. Because BEP is a public-private organization, we have the unique ability to keep potential projects confidential. This is extremely attractive to potential clients in the preliminary development stages. BEP strives to create a business-friendly environment – a place where businesses strive, entrepreneurs thrive and where businesses in Benton County feel valued. I encourage you to visit www.bentonpartnership. org to learn more about BEP, and how you can support our efforts of promoting economic development in our county.
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FOCAL point
An inside look at the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School spring musical performance.
Students stage
PHOTOS BY ELLARRY PRENTICE
Uriah Cook is Shrek in the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School drama program’s spring musical. Performances took place March 25-27 at the Performing Arts Center
Livestream performances available BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER
The Sauk Rapids-Rice High School drama program staged “Shrek: The Musical” March 2527 with a reduced audience due to the coronavirus pandemic. Performances were livestreamed and will air a second time at 7 p.m. April 8-10. Streaming information is available on the Sauk Rapids-Rice Drama Facebook page. A cast and crew of 32 SRR students presented the musical, based on the 2001 DreamWorks Animation movie. The musical follows an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wise-cracking donkey and a feisty princess. His fearsome appearance belying a kind heart, Shrek sets out to prove that beauty is truly in the eye of the ogre.
Focal Point page 12
A bunch of fairytale misfits – played by Madison Maanum (front, from left), Matthew Jegers, Piper Froiland and Faith Biorn; (back, from left) Audrey Zeiszler, Sydnee Wick, Macy Castilleja, Mitch Garcia-Walberg and Liz Kothman – invade Shrek’s swamp, shattering his life of solitude. In his pursuit of perfection, Lord Farquaad banished the fairytale creatures from the city.
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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | Page 11
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RICE – For over 50 years, Saldana Excavating & Aggregates has made its name on owners also being employees. You will find owners and brothers Allen Saldana and John Saldana Jr. on the job – in the same way their father, John Sr., operated his company when he began in 1969. Often, Allen is found using excavating equipment and John Jr. is hauling material to larger commercial companies. “Allen does the excavating,” said Sandra Saldana, chief financial officer. “That’s his niche. He’s been doing it for so many years, and he’s very good at it. … As the owner, he’s on site; he doesn’t send out employees. And, on the trucking side, John is the one on the job for those projects.” Now, a third generation Saldana has made the family business his career, overseeing the day-to-day tasks at the business location in Rice. Andrew Saldana joined the company in
2018 as a full-time shop and yard foreman. “He does all of the mechanic work,” Sandra said. “Andrew runs the wash plant and pit, and he also manages the truck dispatch.” Andrew grew up working part-time at the family business in high school before attending trade school and becoming a diesel mechanic. Returning to the family trade was not difficult for him; he saw potential in the company and plans to continue Saldana Excavating & Aggregates after his father, Allen, and uncle retire. “I saw a lot of opportunity for myself,” Andrew said. “There’s a lot of room to grow, and I see a good future in it. And, I like doing the work.” The company, which employs 10 full-time people and various parttimers, has nearly doubled in size over the last three years, adding both the staff and equipment to meet their growth needs Saldana Excavating
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Sandra Saldana (from left), Andrew Saldana, Allen Saldana and John Saldana Jr. make up a portion of the team at Saldana Excavating & Aggregates in Rice. Brothers Allen and John Jr. took full ownership of the business in 2003 from their father, John Sr.
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Page 12 | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD PHOTOS BY ELLARRY PRENTICE
Faith Biorn (from left), Liz Kothman and Natalie Gerads, starring as young, teen and adult Princess Fiona, respectively, sing “I Know It’s Today” from the tower where the princess has been imprisoned from a young age. Being rescued is just the beginning for Fiona, who is hiding a deep, dark secret.
FOCAL
point
from page 9
Connor Johnson stars as Lord Farquaad, the evil ruler of Duloc who exiles a bunch of fairy-tale creatures to Shrek’s swamp. Determined to save his home, Shrek makes a deal with Farquaad to regain control of his swamp in return for rescuing Princess Fiona, who Farquaad intends to marry so he can become king.
A fire-breathing dragon, played by Sydnee Wick (left) scares Donkey, played by Drew Burling during an attempt to rescue Princess Fiona. Donkey was surprised to discover the fiery creature had doting feelings.
Shrek, played by Uriah Cook, becomes annoyed by Donkey, played by Drew Burling, but realizes his sidekick is his most faithful and loyal ally in his quest to save his swamp.
Fast-talking Donkey, played by Drew Burling, (left) and fearsomebut-kind Shrek, played by Uriah Cook (center) have a conversation in the presence of the feisty Princess Fiona, played by Natalie Gerads. Shrek and Donkey bring on the innuendos and jokes – even some bodily noises; Fiona joins in.
Leading the
Leading the Storm is
Sponsored by:
Riley Weinand Parents: Mike and Heidi Weinand Accomplishment: Senior on the Sauk Rapids-Rice boys hockey team. What is your favorite part about What other activities are you hockey? Being around my teammates involved in at school? Baseball. and enjoying the moment. Why is it important for you to What is your favorite thing to do be involved in school activities? with your team? Hanging out in the Because it is a great way to make locker room and listening to music. good, lifelong friends.
Which teacher has impacted your education most? Ray Nelson. He was my sophomore English teacher, and we would always get along and joke around. Who has been a mentor to you? Cory Bokelman, because he has always been a close family friend and is always pushing me to be better.
What is your favorite meal, movie, social media and song? Spicy chicken sandwich with fries, the Mighty Ducks How do you prepare in the minutes How do you make a difference at series, Instagram and “Runaway (U & I)” leading up to competition? I make school? By having a good attitude, by Galantis. sure I am loose and in the right and I am willing to do anything. mindset to give everything I have.
A Proud Supporter of Storm Athletics
Good Luck to All Sports Teams! 800-847-2502 • 320-632-2908
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NEWS/ PUBLIC NOTICES/ SPORTS
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | Page 13
Vikings bolster defense in free agency Since head coach Mike Zimmer arrived they obviously plan to do considering their in Minnesota in 2014, the Vikings have salary commitments to those two players, consistently backed up their reputation as they aren’t going to generate much of an a strong defensive team. However, that interior pass rush unless Zimmer goes back changed last season, when the team’s to his roots and starts blitzing the A-gap defense collapsed after some key injuries more frequently. Tomlinson is a fine player, and the exodus of multiple veteran starters in but I’m worried that what he’s bringing to free agency. Not even Zimmer could coach the table is redundant with Pierce already on a group of rookie cornerbacks and backup the roster. The Vikings need to improve their defensive linemen into a respectable unit, SPORTS COLUMNIST pass rush more than they need to improve BY ANDY THAYER and that’s the primary reason the 7-9 Vikings their run stopping. missed the playoffs. Patrick Peterson, who was signed to It should be no surprise that restoring the defense a one-year contract for $10 million, is a former all-pro has been the top priority of Zimmer and general cornerback whose play has slipped in recent seasons. manager Rick Spielman this offseason. The team ranked He turns 31 this summer and has clearly lost a step, but 27th in yards allowed per game and 29th in points he’s a major upgrade over Jeff Gladney who will likely allowed per game, and that’s not a recipe for success. move primarily into the slot role. The Vikings defense The cap-strapped Vikings were able to generate some ranked 30th in net yards per pass attempt last year, and financial flexibility by releasing veterans Riley Reiff, bringing in a past-his-prime veteran player to help shore Kyle Rudolph and Shamar Stephen and re-working up a young group of corners has worked for Zimmer in the contract of Adam Thielen. They put this money to the past when he brought in Terence Newman. Just know immediate use by signing nose tackle Dalvin Tomlinson the Vikings aren’t adding the elite version of Peterson and cornerback Patrick Peterson. Both Tomlinson and who could shut down No.1 receivers by himself 5-6 Peterson are expected to immediately step into starting years ago. roles, and the expectation is their veteran presence, along Zimmer knows this is a crucial season for him. The with the return of players like Danielle Hunter, Eric pressure is mounting after the team missed the playoffs Kendricks and Anthony Barr from injury, will get the last year despite an explosive offense. Zimmer’s whole Vikings defense back on track. deal is that he’s a defensive guru, and if the team’s Dalvin Tomlinson, who was signed to a two-year defense can’t perform at the mediocre level required to deal worth $22 million, is a massive interior lineman be successful with an offensive featuring Dalvin Cook, (6-feet, 3-inches tall, 318 pounds) that is geared toward Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen, then the writing’s stopping the run. In a vacuum, that’s good value for a going to be on the wall for Zimmer. If he’s going to solid nose tackle for a team that ranked 27th in the NFL go down, he’s going to make sure to go down having in rushing defense last year. However, the team’s top done everything possible to put defensive players on the free agent signing last season, Michael Pierce, also plays field who can execute his scheme. We’ll see if Dalvin nose tackle and has a similar skill set. If the Vikings play Tomlinson and Patrick Peterson move the needle enough Tomlinson and Pierce together in a 4-3 alignment, which for Zimmer’s defense to return to respectability. Police Activity Report March 15-21
Sauk Rapids Police Department March 16, 6:12 p.m. – Law enforcement was dispatched to the 1300 block of 10th Street Northeast for a strong acetone smell. Upon arrival, the smell seemed to resemble paint or paint thinner. The listed maintenance person was contacted and responded. The person entered a vacant apartment where a shade had been painted with spray paint. The person removed the item and opened a window to provide ventilation. Officer informed the complainant of the issue. March 16, 8:30 p.m. – Officers responded to an unlisted address after receiving a call that the carbon monoxide alarm was sounding even after changing the battery. No one was reported to be ill. Caller was on the phone outside of the home with Xcel Energy when the officer arrived. Caller said a technician from the energy company responded and no further assistance was needed from the police or fire departments. March 20, 7 p.m. – A caller reported the dumping of several cardboard boxes containing garbage at Sauk Rapids Municipal Park. The caller cleaned up the trash, and officers responded and made note of the delivery address on the boxes. Incidents: Medical calls 20, miscellaneous calls 18, warnings 17, assists 14, administrative violations (winter parking) 11, suspicious activity reports 11, welfare checks 11, traffic accidents 7, driving 6, thefts Crime & Public Safety
6, child calls 4, civil complaints 4, disturbances 4, lift assists 4, ordinance violations 4, 911 calls 3, alarms 3, animal calls 3, assaults 3, agency assists 2, domestics 2, DUIs/DWIs 2, dumping complaints 2, repossession of vehicles 2, traffic stops 2 and warrants 2. Rice Police Department March 17, 10:01 a.m. – Law enforcement was dispatched to Highway 10 and 105th Street Northwest in Watab Township for a vehicle that left the roadway and was stuck on the railway tracks. Dispatch notified BNSF to stop oncoming trains. Officer arrived to find a male and female, who was holding a young child. The female driver did not speak fluent English, but the passenger provided details, although he said he had been sleeping at the time of the incident. He said the driver left the roadway while traveling westbound Highway 10, drove through the median and up the railway embankment onto the tracks. Driver has a Florida-issued identification card, but dispatched advised that neither adult had a valid driver’s license. A towing company arrived and took possession of the vehicle. A Minnesota State Trooper arrived and said no report was necessary and neither party would be cited for the incident. Officer drove the occupants to the towing company where they called for a ride. Incidents: Traffic stops 12, miscellaneous calls 7, agency assists 3, assists 3, animals 2, medical calls 2, and vehicles 2.
Public Notices CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333
ASSUMED NAME: Laurel Leaf Yoga & Retreats. PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 7101 5th Ave NE, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 MN 56379 United States. NAMEHOLDER(S): Laura Mary Brand, 7101 5th Ave NE, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 United States. (4) By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. /s/ Laura Brand 03/17/2021 R-11-2P CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333
ASSUMED NAME: Premier Reefs. PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 16 3rd Ave S., Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 United States. NAMEHOLDER(S): Joseph D Posch, 16 3rd Ave. S., Sauk Rapids, MN 56379. (4) By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. /s/ Joseph D Posch 03/09/2021 R-11-2P PROBATE NOTICE STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF STEARNS DISTRICT COURT SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE DIVISION Court File No: 73-PR-21-1602 AMENDED NOTICE OF AND ORDER FOR HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRS, FORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In Re: Estate of DELETTA W. THEEDE, Decedent. It is Ordered and Notice is given that on April 23, 2021 at 8:45 a.m., a hearing will be held at the Stearns County Courthouse, 725 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud, MN on a Petition for the adjudication of intestacy and determination of Decedent’s heirs, and for
Rice man injured in motorcycle accident
ST. CLOUD – A Rice man was injured March 13 after losing control of a motorcycle. According to the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office, Michael Anthony Czech, 50, was traveling on County Road 10 in St. Martin Township, Stearns County, around 1 p.m. when he was thrown from his vehicle. Czech was not wearing a helmet. He was airlifted to the St. Cloud Hospital. A witness said Czech had appeared behind her vehicle at what she believed was a high rate of speed and passed her in a S-curve north of 290th Street, a no-passing zone. The witness said Czech lost control and hit an unpaved portion of the right ditch. St. Martin Fire and Rescue, Melrose Ambulance and Life Link assisted on scene.
PHOTOS FROM THESE GAMES NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE
Boys basketball vs. Sartell Section 8AA gymnastics Find them online at www.saukrapidsherald.com under ‘photos’
the appointment of ERIN N. CHEW, whose address is 1101 RIVERSIDE AVENUE SOUTH, SARTELL, MN 56377, as Personal Representative of the Decedent’s estate in an unsupervised administration. Any objections to the Petition must be raised at the hearing or filed with the Court prior to the hearing. If the Petition is proper and no objections are filed or raised, the Personal Representative will be appointed with the full power to administer the Decedent’s estate, including the power to collect all assets; to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes, and expenses; to sell real and personal property; and to do all necessary acts for the Decedent’s estate. Notice is further given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Decedent’s estate are required to present the claims to the Personal Representative or to the Court within four (4) months after the date of this notice or the claims will be barred. BY THE COURT Dated: 03-23-2021 /s/ William J. Cashman Judge of District Court Dated: 03-23-2021 /s/ George Lock Court Administrator LUND ROSS, P.A. Betsey Lund Ross MN# 0389061 15 6th Ave. N./P.O. 2386 Saint Cloud, MN 56302 Telephone: (320) 259-4070 Facsimile: (320) 317-0459 E-mail: betsey@lundrosslaw.com ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER
R-12-2B
PUBLIC NOTICES
Page 14 | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGUARDING PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS This may affect your 2021 property taxes The Board of Appeal and Equalization for the township of Minden will meet on April 14, 2021 at 2:30 pm at the Minden Town Hall Located at 2989 Golden Spike Road, Sauk Rapids, MN. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether property in the jurisductution has been properly valued and classified by the assessor. If you believe the value or classification of your property is incorrect, Please contact your assessors office to discuss your concerns. If you disagree with the valuation or classification after discussing it with your assessor, you may appear before the local board of appeal and Equalization. The board will review your assessment and may make corrections as needed. Generally, you must appeal to the local board before appealing to the county board of appeal and equalization. Noticed by Cynthia Abraham Minden Township Clerk FR-12-1B
DOCUMENT 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed bids will be received by INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 47 SAUK RAPIDS-RICE PUBLIC SCHOOLS for 2021 Pavement Rehabilitation at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School until 2:00 PM, April 13, 2021 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bidders are invited to attend. Bids received after this time will be returned unopened. Bids shall be upon form provided in the Bidding Documents. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed and marked “2021 Pavement Rehabilitation at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School”, with the name and address of the bidder, and the date and hour of the opening. Bids shall be delivered to: Independent School District 47 District Office Second Floor Door 2 1833 Osauka Road NE Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 The complete form shall be without alterations, additions, or erasures. All bids shall be on a lump sum basis. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any irregularities in bids. Direct communications regarding this Project to Brent Boelter, Inspec, telephone 763-546-3434; bboelter@inspec. com Bidding Documents are available for a fee via digital download at www.questcdn.com or www.inspec.com. Contact QuestCDN.com at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com for assistance in free membership registration, downloading, and working with this digital project information. Paper copies of Bidding Documents can be ordered by contacting Northstar Imaging Services, Inc., 651-686-0477, for a non-refundable fee plus shipping and handling. Plan Holders are parties that have downloaded the plans and specifications. Plan holders will be notified via email as addenda are issued. Copies of the Bidding Documents will be on file and available for inspection at Inspec, 5801 Duluth Street, Golden Valley, Minnesota 55422. Each bidder shall accompany the Bid Form with Bid Security and the Responsible Contractor’s Affidavit as described in the Instructions to Bidders. Bid result information may be viewed at www.questcdn. com or www.inspec.com A pre-bid conference will be held at 1:00 PM, April 6, 2021 at the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, 1835 Osauka Road NE, Sauk Rapids, MN, 56379. Attendees shall meet in the north parking lot, near the loading dock. 2021 Pavement Rehabilitation Sauk Rapids-Rice High School Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools 00 11 13 - 1 215133 R-12-2B
PROBATE NOTICE STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF BENTON DISTRICT COURT PROBATE DIVISION SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court File No: 05-PR-21-434 ORDER AND NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE IN UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION, AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In Re: Estate of CURTIS DON BLAESING, Decedent. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDI-
TORS: It is Ordered and Notice is hereby given that on the 19th day of April, 2021, at 8:00 o’clock a.m. , a hearing will be held in the above named Court at Foley, Minnesota, for the formal adjudication of intestacy and determination of heirship and for the appointment of Jamie Houtsma, whose address is 2919 Flintstone St., Mora, MN 55051, as Personal representative of the estate of the above-named decedent in an unsupervised administration, and that any objections thereto must be filed with the Court. That, if proper, and no objections are filed, a Personal Representative will be appointed to administer the estate; to collect all assets; pay all legal debts, claims, taxes, and expenses; sell real and per-
REGULAR MEETING SAUK RAPIDS CITY COUNCIL SAUK RAPIDS GOVERNMENT CENTER, 250 Summit Ave N. Monday, March 8, 2021 6:00PM MINUTES 1. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance Mayor Kurt Hunstiger called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. All members present. 2. Additions or Changes to the Agenda Ross Olson requested to add 2021 Citizen of the Year as 11-A and Park Project Update as agenda11-B. 3. Approve the Agenda Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to approve the Agenda as amended. Motion carried unanimously. 4. Approve Minutes A. 2-22-2021 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to approve the 2-22-2021 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes. Motion carried unanimously with Mayor Hunstiger abstaining. 5. Receive and File NONE 6. Mayor’s Communications • Rapids River Days-Mayor Hunstiger noted that it appears that Rapids River Days is currently planning to proceed this year according to the Rapids River Days website. 7. Audience Items/Visitors Total Time Limit 2 Minutes for Items NOT on the Agenda NONE 8. Public Hearings NONE 9 . Consent Agenda A. Approve Office Coordinator Job Description and Authorize Posting B. Approve AFSCME Local 748 2021-2023 Union Contract C. Approve Police Facility Expansion Site Plan D. Approve Shamrock House Site Plan Request E. Approve Bid for Salt Shed Recovering
F. Approve 2021 Plumbing and Mechanical Contractor Licenses G. Authorize Advertising for Bids for 2021 CSAH 1 Trail Improvements Contingent Upon MnDOT Authorization Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded by Councilperson Seamans to approve consent agenda items 9A-9G. Motion carried unanimously. 10. Regular Agenda NONE 11. Other Staff Items A. 2021 Sauk Rapids Citizen of the Year Ross Olson noted that last year things with the Citizen of the Year program was modified quite a bit due to the onset of the pandemic. Olson suggested moving forward this year with the Citizen of the Year program. He stated that nominations are due on April 5th. The 2021 Citizen of the Year will be recognized at the April 26th City Council meeting. B. Park Project Update Ross Olson stated that he does have a tentative artist list prepared for the Thursday night music in the park, which is planned for ten weeks beginning in July. He talked about the various genres of music that will be featured. Olson said that central Minnesota has a wealth of great musicians. He noted that he has shared the artist list with the Park Project Committee and they are in support of the current line-up. He said that he has been working with Legal to get contracts prepared in which for each of the bands to sign. 12. Other Council Items and Communications NONE 13. Approve List of Bills and Claims Motion: Moved by Councilperson Seamans and seconded by Councilperson Sauer to approve the List of Bills and Claims. Motion carried unanimously. 15. Adjournment Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Mayor Hunstiger adjourned the meeting at 6:13 p.m. R-12-1B
SAUK RAPIDS-RICE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 47 REGULAR SEMI-MONTHLY BOARD MEETING Monday, March 8, 2021 A semi-monthly meeting of the Sauk Rapids-Rice ISD 47 Board of Education was called to order by Chair Butkowski Monday, March 8, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. in the District Office Board Room. ROLL CALL Members present included Braun, Butkowski, Hauck, Holthaus, Loidolt, Morse, and Solarz. Others present were Superintendent Bergstrom, Director of Human Resources and Administrative Services Schoenherr, and Director of Teaching and Learning Bushman. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA A motion was made by Holthaus, seconded by Morse and unanimously carried to approve the meeting’s “Agenda” as amended. CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made by Braun, seconded by Hauck and unanimously carried to approve the meeting’s “Consent Agenda.” PUBLIC INPUT There was no public input at 7:22 p.m. ACTION APPROVAL OF THE 2020 – 2023 INTEGRATION PLAN AND APPLICATION A motion was made by Braun, seconded by Solarz and unanimously carried to approve the 2020 – 2023 Integration Plan (goals, staffing and budget). The 2020 – 2021 Integration Plan was unanimously approved on 03.09.20 and was brought back for Board approval on 03.09.21 for the initial and intended full three-year scope from 2020 – 2023. APPROVAL OF THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDER-
STANDING (MOU) REGARDING RETIREMENT INCENTIVE LANGUAGE A motion was made by Solarz, seconded by Braun and unanimously carried to approve the MOU, which is non precedent setting and allows specified certified staff members to meet required incentive criteria for the one-time payment. The district and the SRREA agree to review the language of Article XXV, Section 25.2 during the certified negotiation process for the 2021 – 2023 school years. ADOPTION OF PROPOSED POLICY #505 A motion was made by Holthaus, seconded by Butkowski and unanimously carried to adopt the following policy. • #505 (Distribution of Non School-Sponsored Materials on School Premises) is a “recommended policy” and will replace current policy #505 (Distribution of Non School-Sponsored Materials on School Premises). This policy required two readings before adoption due to recommended changes ADOPTION OF PROPOSED POLICY #704 A motion was made by Hauck, seconded by Loidolt and unanimously carried to adopt the following policy. • #704 (Fixed Assets) is a “recommended policy” and will replace current policy #704 (Fixed Assets) This policy required two readings before adoption due to recommended changes ADJOURNMENT With no further business appearing before the Board, a motion was made by Braun, seconded by Solarz and carried to adjourn the Board meeting at 8:26 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lisa J. Braun, Board of Education Clerk Sauk Rapids-Rice ISD 47 R-12-1B
sonal property; and do all necessary acts for the estate. Notice is further given that ALL CREDITORS having claims against said estate are required to present the same to said Personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this notice or said claims will be barred. Dated: March 11, 2021 /s/ Robert J. Raupp Judge /s/ Sue Sorensen, Deputy Court Administrator Torell Law Office Mark Torell (Atty. ID# 137339) 405 Dewey Street, PO Box 427 Foley, MN 56329 (320) 968-7284
PROBATE NOTICE STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF STEARNS DISTRICT COURT SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE DIVISION Court File No: 73-PR-21-1664 NOTICE OF AND ORDER FOR HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRS, FORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In Re: Estate of STANLEY E. MOELLER, Decedent. It is Ordered and Notice is given that on April 23, 2021 at 8:45 a.m., a R-11-2B hearing will be held at the Stearns County Courthouse, 725 Courthouse Square, St.
Cloud, MN on a Petition for the adjudication of intestacy and determination of Decedent’s heirs, and for the appointment of JOHN P. MOELLER, whose address is 1018 15TH STREET NORTH, SAINT CLOUD, MN 56303, as Personal Representative of the Decedent’s estate in an unsupervised administration. Any objections to the Petition must be raised at the hearing or filed with the Court prior to the hearing. If the Petition is proper and no objections are filed or raised, the Personal Representative will be appointed with the full power to administer the Decedent’s estate, including the power to collect all assets; to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes, and expenses; to sell real and personal property; and to do all necessary acts for the Decedent’s estate. Notice is further given
that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Decedent’s estate are required to present the claims to the Personal Representative or to the Court within four (4) months after the date of this notice or the claims will be barred. BY THE COURT Dated: March 15, 2021 /s/ William J. Cashman Judge of District Court Dated: March 15, 2021 /s/ George Lock Court Administrator LUND ROSS, P.A. Betsey Lund Ross MN# 0389061 15 6th Ave. N./P.O. 2386 Saint Cloud, MN 56302 Telephone: (320) 259-4070 Facsimile: (320) 317-0459 E-mail: betsey@lundrosslaw.com ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER R-12-2B
SPORTS
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | Page 15
Ackerman ends accomplished season with state appearance Storm wrestler goes 0-2 against top competition BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER
It may not have been the same location as usual, but Sauk RapidsRice Storm wrestler Cole Ackerman soaked up the experience at the Class AAA state individual tournament. Ackerman endured a pair of difficult losses, losing in the first round and the consolation semifinals to end his productive season March 25 at St. MichaelAlbertville High School in St. Michael. “I was sad that the season was over, but after I thought about it more, I realized how far I actually made it,” Ackerman said. “My coaches were really proud of me. They said it was a good building block for me.” The Storm junior had a tough draw to kick off his 170-pound tournament appearance: Hunter Lyden of the Stillwater Ponies, the top-ranked Class AAA wrestler in the class. Ackerman and the SRR coaching staff built a game plan around avoiding selective ties, staying away from Lyden until the right opportunity presented itself. Lyden, to his credit, never turned toward the tie attempts Ackerman was looking for, with the former pulling a 10-1 major decision victory.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Cole Ackerman (left) remains in a standing position against Wayzata’s Adam El-Damir at the Class AAA state individual tournament March 25 at St. Michael-Albertville High School in St. Michael. Ackerman lost by pin but cherished accomplishing a major feat in making it to the state tournament.
“I came out a little sluggish,” Ackerman said. “He outwrestled me, and he got to his offense a lot better than I did.” Despite being eliminated from championship contention, Ackerman had an opportunity to advance to the consolation championship, facing off against Wayzata’s Adam El-Damir, slotted at No. 8 in the weight class. The Storm’s lone representative went in with the mindset of staying even with the 29-win El-Damir, but the latter managed to get Ackerman into a tough situation and pinned him at three minutes, 25
seconds. “I came close to escaping, but once he got the cradle locked up, things happened quickly and that’s how it ended,” Ackerman said. Ackerman, who entered the postseason with an envious 19-5 regular season record, walked off the mat feeling sad the season was over. However, the determined
upperclassman has eyes on putting together an even-stronger senior season. “We’re taking it a step further, and we want to win a couple of matches (at state),” he said. “My goal is to make the podium, top-six at the state tournament.” The talented athlete plans on upping his training to try and accomplish his goal through wrestling across the offseason to gain more mat experience. He does not just want to excel individually; he expects next year’s crop of Storm wrestlers can make a name for themselves. “The team definitely isn’t as strong as it has been in past years, but we have a good group of guys coming back next year,” Ackerman said. “I think the season will go alright for us.” In the end, despite not making the mark he was hoping for, Ackerman is grateful for the community backing he received during his lifelong goal of representing Sauk RapidsRice on a statewide level. “I know I had a lot of support this morning at school from teachers and friends, and it’s always been my goal to make it to the state tournament through my high school career,” he said.
“The team definitely isn’t as strong as it has been in past years, but we have a good group of guys coming back next year. I think the season will go alright for us.” - Cole Ackerman
Community Education Corner
Classroom Driver’s Education
This course is for students looking to complete the classroom portion of driver education. This class does not include behind the wheel instruction. Classroom instruction consists of videos, lectures, study guides, presentations, tests and discussions. This class will be held on Zoom. You will be sent the link prior to the class. Watch for an email to stop by the Community Education office to pick up a study guide and sign a contract. The state of Minnesota requires 30 hours of classroom instruction. Each of the 10 sessions consists of three hours of classroom instruction. Upon completion of the 30 hours of classroom instruction, students will receive a Certificate of Completion which allows them to get a blue card from a driving school to take a Minnesota permit test. Students may start driving classes at the age of 14, obtain their permit at age 15 and license at the age of 16. Monday through Friday, April 6-20, 6-9 p.m. Online course.
A Year in the Life of a Bear
Join University of Minnesota researcher Spencer
Rettler as he discusses a year in the life of a bear, including hibernation, raising cubs, finding food and preparing for winter. You will learn how black bears use their sense of smell to navigate through the forest, what types of wild berries they eat and where they build dens. A Zoom link will be sent prior to class. April 7, 2-3 p.m. Online course. To register or for more information on programs and costs, contact Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Education at www.isd47.org/ce or 320-258-1577.
Sticks go silent as Lumberjacks lose to Willmar Division-deciding series up ahead BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER
Across the 202021 NA3HL season, the Willmar WarHawks have taken significant strides and have emerged as a pesky opponent for any West Division roster come playoff time. The WarHawks exemplified this notion once more March 24, downing the Granite City Lumberjacks by a score of 3-1 at Sports Arena East in Sauk Rapids. “It reinforces that we need to be ready to go every night, especially coming into the playoffs,” said D.J. Vold, associate head coach. “We need to figure out a way to start games a little faster and continue it for a full 60 minutes.” Willmar struck first with a goal from Cole Wigestrand 11 minutes into the contest with a helping hand from former Lumberjack star Jonah Jangula. Granite City, not to be deterred, found the back of the net nine minutes later behind a power-play tally from Ben Anderson, his 10th goal of the season. The Crystal native’s contribution to the man advantage was one of many positive moments from the power-play unit this past week. “The power play has been really good for us as of late,” Vold said. “We’ve done a good job of taking our high-quality shooting chances and getting them to go in.” Despite the game-tying score, however, Granite City could not fully get over the hump even while outshooting their divisional foes 46-28, including 18 shots in the third period as the team looked to tie the game once more. “We had a lot of chances where there were pucks laying in the crease, and we couldn’t get our sticks on them,” Vold said. “We couldn’t find a way to get them to go in. It was just one of those nights.” Bailey Huber was his consistent self in net, registering 25 saves while allowing just two goals. His .916 save percentage is the 12th-highest in the country and the highest amongst West Division goaltenders. “If the guys are struggling, he usually backs them up and gives them a chance to win,” Vold said. Despite the loss, the
Lumberjacks control their own destiny. They played the first of a two-game series against the North Iowa Bulls March 26 and will face the Bulls again at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 27, at Sports Arena East in Sauk Rapids. If the Lumberjacks win both games, they clinch the division. “We just need to stick together and work together and continue to do our jobs,” Vold said. “As long as we continue to play as a five-man unit on the ice and care about each other and the result, good things will happen.” WIL GCL
1 1 1-3 1 0 0-1 GCL: First period: 2. Anderson (Cody Dias, Tal Halliday) 18:05. Huber 25 of 27.
Granite City 5, New Ulm 0 Assistant captain Dias was instrumental in a fast start for Granite City, tallying a pair of goals in the second period in a 5-0 victory over the New Ulm Steel March 21 at New Ulm Civic Center in New Ulm.
GCL 0 3 2-5 NUM 0 0 0-0 GCL: Second period: 1. Brett Reed (Dahlheimer, Matthew Metsa) 5:26. 2. Dias (John Blake, Anderson) 10:37. 3. Dias (Dahlheimer, Camden Benson) 19:48. Third period: 4. Skime (Dias, Brockston Masseth) 12:10. 5. Braeden Bartoo (Dahlheimer, Shane Prifrel) 14:25. Josh Weyandt 18 of 18.
Granite City 4, North Iowa 3 The Lumberjacks kept their division-winning hopes alive, stringing together an impressive 4-3 comeback win March 20 at Mason City Arena in Mason City, Iowa. GCL NIO
1 1 2-4 0 3 0-3 GCL: First period: 1. Simon (Cameron Cromwell, Metsa) 7:16. Second period: 5. Simon (Cromwell) 19:59. Third period: 6. O’Leary (Prifrel, Bartoo) 1:43. 7. Skime (Daikawa) 8:31. Huber 33 of 36.
North Iowa 3, Granite City 2 Unfortunately for the Lumberjacks, they could not slow down the Bulls in a 3-2 loss March 19 at Mason City Arena in Mason City, Iowa. GCL NIO
1 0 1-2 1 2 1-3 GCL: First period: 2. Bartoo (Dias, Halliday) 10:24. Second period: 5. Simon (Metsa, Cromwell) 17:16. Huber 34 of 37.
SPORTS
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | Page 17
Ackerman advances in promising state preliminary showing Four Storm wrestlers compete at super-sections BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Elijah Grabinski (right) stands atop the podium after placing fourth in the Section 8AA boys swim and dive tournament March 12 at Tech High School. Grabinski earned a score of 462.45 points and broke the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School’s 11-dive record.
Time after time
Storm athletes achieve bests at section meet BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER
Entering the Section 8AA swim and dive meet, the Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm boys swim and dive team sought to stay afloat with their capable competition through improving on their best times. And on the big stage, the Storm accomplished that feat and more, as SRR picked up the largest time drop in every individual event, finishing sixth of eight teams March 12-13 at Tech High School in St. Cloud. “They were phenomenal,” said Jason Tangen, head coach. “I’ve been tracking stats for a long time, and I’ve never seen a team just drop time across the board like they did.” Accredited diver Elijah Grabinski once again punched his ticket to state, locking up fourthplace in the diving competition with 462.45 points while breaking SRR’s 11-dive record, a mark previously
held by his brother Jack. “It seems like he’s unflappable,” Tangen said. “I know he’s got nerves, but it doesn’t show. He’s just so steady.” Tucker Hendrickson narrowly missed the state cut in the 100-yard breaststroke, recording a time of 1 minute, 0.23 seconds and coming up short by one second. Despite that, the senior finished fourth in the event while logging a seventh-place showing in the 200 individual medley, ending his established career with poise. “As a brand-new coaching staff, in a weird year, trying weird stuff, he was about the perfect swimmer and leader to help us,” Tangen said. There were remarkable individual performances in every single event that displayed SRR’s ability to improve and prepare ahead of section competition. Eighth-grade athlete Cash Walz dazzled in the 500 freestyle, reaching the wall at 4:59.49, becoming the fourth Storm swimmer to finish the event in under five minutes. Some of the Storm’s personal records achieved during the section meet were staggering. Evan Scapanski dropped
32 seconds in the 500 freestyle, while SRR’s four 100 freestyle swimmers all decreased their times by at least 6%. Noah Blodgett took fifth in the 100 freestyle, while Jack Christoferson and Jaxon Young landed fifth and sixth in program history, respectively, in the 100 backstroke. “We had a lot of coaches come up to us and say, ‘What did you feed them this morning?’” Tangen said. Following the successful meet, the team met March 15 and discussed their final results, comparing them to the state champion Storm team of 2004. Through examining their times in the top 16 spots of every event, it was discovered that this year’s squad would have taken third at the state event in 2004. That fact, mixed in with the large amount of returning talent, gives Tangen and the coaching staff optimism that the Storm will be a force in the near future. “That made us realize that some of these records on the board, those are not unattainable,” he said. “They’re on the cusp of knocking more of those records off the board, and they’re excited at that prospect.” Team scores: Maple Grove 327.5 points, St. MichaelAlbertville 325, Tech-CathedralRocori 301, Elk River 271, Brainerd 269.5, SRR 223.5, Buffalo-Maple Lake 195.5 and Moorhead 190.
SRR: 200MR: 6. Christoferson, Hendrickson, William Nielsen and Jack O’Brien 1:42.59. 200FS: 7. Walz 1:50.26. 200IM: 7. Hendrickson 2:03.69. 50FS: 6. Christoferson 22.73 and 10. Blodgett 23.30. 1M Diving: 4. Grabinski 462.45, 11. Reid Johnson 322.50 and 12. Hayden Zabinski 316.75. 100FLY: 14. Zabinski 57.58. 100FS: 5. Blodgett 50.19 and 13. Nielsen 53.17. 500FS: 5. Walz 4:59.49 and 14. Alex Lucas 5:21.08. 200FSR: 4. Christoferson, O’Brien, Blodgett and Hendrickson 1:30.96. 100BK: 9. Christoferson Tucker Hendrickson participates in the 100-yard breaststroke event 58.30 and 10. Young 58.31. 100BR: March 13 at Tech High School in St. Cloud. Hendrickson put together 4. Hendrickson 1:00.23. 400FSR: a strong performance, narrowly missing the state cut with a time of 7. Blodgett, Walz, Zabinski and 1:00.23. Nielsen 3:27.57.
Despite the team wrestling season reaching its end in the first-round of the Section 8AAA playoffs, the Sauk RapidsRice Storm had a lot of wrestling to go. In a melting pot of top-tier state wrestling talent in the Section 7AAA versus Section 8AAA state preliminary meet, SRR’s representatives thrived, with junior Cole Ackerman winning the 170-pound true second match over Buffalo’s Macray Klohs to clinch a spot at the state tournament March 20 at Coon Rapids High School in Coon Rapids. “I was very impressed with how our guys competed,” said Cole Wilson, head coach. “Taking four guys to that tournament and having all four place is great for our program.” Vance Barz nearly secured his own shot at state, narrowly falling to Forest Lake’s Parker Lyden in the 106-pound true second showdown. The freshman was effective overall in his state preliminary performance, picking up wins against Anoka’s Austin West, Brainerd’s Easton Dircks and Andover’s Brandon Board, listed No. 10 in the Class AAA 106-pound rankings. “Vance has a lot of grit,” Wilson said. “His mentality is exactly what coaches look for in their athletes.” Storm sophomore Alex Diederich, ranked No. 9 amongst the class’s 113-pound wrestlers, pinned Cambridge-Isanti’s Braylon Davis in the first round before stumbling against No. 5 Jacob Aho of Forest Lake in a 5-0 decision loss. Diederich salvaged the day with an impressive win by fall at one minute, 44 seconds against Bemidji’s Hunter Heim, seizing fourth place overall. “Alex is very skilled,” Wilson said. “He dedicates a lot of time to the sport.” Andrew Wollak concluded a decorated Storm wrestling career built on winning by all means possible. The senior pinned Cambridge-Isanti’s Brandon Austin and took a 1-0 decision victory over Coon Rapids’ Enoch Madimba while losing two matches to Forest Lake’s Alex Lofgren, resulting in a fourth-place finish. “Being it was Andrew’s last match, it was important for him to leave it all on the mat,” Wilson said. “There was nothing to hold back. Andrew should be able to hold his head high and have positive memories as he moves onto his next chapter in life.” The final SRR appearance of the day came from Ackerman, who flexed his hard-to-match athleticism in several key performances. The 17-3 talent defeated St. Francis’ Bo Flagstad by a 3-1 decision and stifled Anoka’s Jacob Whitaker in a 7-3 win before falling to the undefeated Alex Kowalchyk of Coon Rapids in the 170-pound finals to set up the fateful true second matchup against Klohs. “Cole sticks to the things he does well and the things that got him this far in the postseason,” Wilson said. “Cole did a great job of eliminating mistakes and exploiting the mistakes of his opponents.” Ackerman competed at the Class AAA state individual wrestling tournament March 25. The Storm, following a successful showing from their star individuals, hope to achieve future success as talented wrestlers like Barz and Diederich vie for their own state trips. “Both of these guys worked very hard all season and have been great practice partners for each other,” Wilson said. “I’m confident they will take a lot away from this experience and apply it as they continue to compete in the seasons to come.” 106: Barz went 3-2 and finished third. He won by fall 0:44, lost by decision 5-2, won by decision 8-1, won by fall 3:50 and lost by decision 4-3. 113: Diederich went 2-2 and finished fourth. He won by fall 2:36, lost by decision 5-0, won by decision 7-2 and lost by decision 3-2. 138: Wollak went 2-2 and finished fourth. He lost by decision 6-4, won by fall 3:01, won by decision 1-0 and lost by decision 6-0. 170: Ackerman went 3-1 and finished second. He won by decision 3-1, won by decision 7-3, lost by decision 9-2 and won by decision 5-0.
Page 18 | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
The Sauk Rapids-Rice boys basketball team
SPORTS
Magic
Mathies
took on the Alexandria Cardinals in the Section 8AA championship game March 26. Storm boys hoops advances Find the results at to section title game www.saukrapidsherald.com Public Notice DOCUMENT 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS 2021 Overlay Improvements Sauk Rapids, Minnesota SEH No. SAUKR 158443 Notice is hereby given that Online Bids will be received by the City Administrator until 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 20, 2021, via QuestCDN for the furnishing of all labor and material for the construction of 2021 Overlay Improvements. The bid opening will be held at City Hall located at 250 Summit Avenue North, Sauk Rapids, MN and will be conducted via GoToMeeting, at which time the Online Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud: Bid Opening for 2021 Overlay Improvements - Sauk Rapids Tuesday, April 20, 2021 9:45 AM - 10:15 AM (CDT) Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet, or smartphone: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/411727933 You can also dial in using your phone (for supported devices, tap a one-touch number below to join instantly): United States (Toll Free): 1 877 309 2073 - One-touch: tel:+18773092073,,411727933# United States: +1 (571) 317-3129 - One-touch: tel:+15713173129,,411727933# Access Code: 411-727-933 Any person monitoring the meeting remotely may be responsible for any documented costs. Message and data rates may apply. Major quantities for the Work include: 8,300 SY Reclaim Bituminous Pavement (Full Depth) 1,200 SY Aggregate Base Restoration 2,000 TON Bituminous Pavement 3,600 LF Aggregate Shouldering 6,000 LF Striping Epoxy Ground-In 17,500 LF Striping Epoxy (Alternate) The Bidding Documents may be seen at the Issuing Office of SEH located at 1200 25th Avenue South, P.O. Box 1717, St. Cloud, MN 56302-1717, 320.229.4300 by appointment only. The Bidding Documents may be viewed for no cost at http://www.sehinc.com by selecting the Project Bid Information link at the bottom of the page and the View Plans option from the menu at the top of the selected project page. Digital image copies of the Bidding Documents are available at http://www.sehinc.com for a fee of $30. These documents may be downloaded by selecting this project from the “Project Bid Information” link and by entering eBidDocTM Number 7703748 on the SEARCH PROJECTS page. For assistance and free membership registration, contact QuestCDN at 952.233.1632 or info@questcdn.com. For this project, bids will ONLY be received electronically. Contractors submitting an electronic bid will be charged an additional $30 at the time of bid submission via the online electronic bid service QuestCDN.com. To access the electronic Bid Worksheet, download the project document and click the online bidding button at the top of the advertisement. Prospective bidders must be on the plan holders list through Quest CDN for bids to be accepted. Bids shall be completed according to the Bidding Requirements prepared by SEH dated March 22, 2021. In addition to digital plans, paper copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from Docunet Corp. located at 2435 Xenium Lane North, Plymouth, MN 55441 (763.475.9600) for a fee of $100. Bid security in the amount of 5 percent of the Bid must accompany each Bid in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. A Contractor responding to these Bidding Documents must submit to the City/Owner a signed statement under oath by an owner or officer verifying compliance with each of the minimum criteria in Minnesota Statutes, section 16C.285, subdivision 3. The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all Bids, to waive irregularities and informalities therein and to award the Contract in the best interests of the Owner. Ross Olson City Administrator Sauk Rapids, Minnesota Publish: Sauk Rapids Herald: March 27 and April 10, 2021 QuestCDN: March 27, 2021 City of Sauk Rapids website: http://www.ci.sauk-rapids. mn.us March 27, 2021 R-12/14-2B
BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER
The day before the Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm boys basketball team took the court against their crosstown rival Sartell in the Section 8AAA semifinals, Dominic Mathies had seemingly found his stroke during a Storm practice. As head coach Derek Peterson observed, the athletic guard could not seem to miss from longrange, showcasing his skills as a shooter. And the next day, Mathies replicated that practice performance on the big stage, putting up 19 points while draining five 3-pointers as the Storm sent the Sabres packing with an emotional 59-52 triumph March 23 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. “It’s just joy, man,” Mathies said. “You’re looking at your teammates, you’re looking at the crowd, everyone is jumping up and down, cheering. It was just a blast to be on that court.” The Central Lakes Conference foes had split their regular season series, and it was clear from the opening tipoff that neither team wanted their season
to end. The Sabres grasped early control, rebounding from a 5-0 SRR start to tally 11 straight points. Defense was the name of the game, as the teams combined for just 47 points in a back-and-forth first half. “I knew we’d score, but we needed to play defense,” Peterson said. “They’re a good basketball team, and if you don’t play defense against good basketball teams, you’re not going to win. We were spot-on defensively.” Sartell possessed a slight 24-23 advantage at halftime, courtesy of a lastsecond make from Gustav Gunderson who led the Sabres with 17 points. The Storm separated from their third-seeded opponents early in the second half with a 17-4 scoring run, turning a onepoint lead into a 14-point one. “We’re just always working in the gym and it’s just instinct,” Mathies said. “You’re coming out here playing with your friends and of course it’s nervous coming in, but you can get loose once the ball tips off, and that’s what happened.”
Alex Harren goes up for a contested layup March 23 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Harren logged nine points in the Storm’s section semifinal win over Sartell.
T h e environment brought an intensity that matched the entertaining and high-stakes nature of the matchup. Both student sections made their presence known in a rousing setting not often seen since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. It made the Storm’s emphatic victory, cemented by a low turnover rate and an 80% free-throw shooting percentage, all the more worthwhile. “The experience of basketball, what you remember as a player and as a coach, is the crowd and the fans, the screaming, the yelling,” Peterson said. “That’s the stuff you’re going to remember 10 years from now, the people screaming and hollering for you.” Elijah Moilanen recorded 12 points, five rebounds, five assists and three steals, while Jayce Walrath connected on all four of his shots to go with four rebounds. In a chance to reverse recent trends, the Storm battled the Alexandria Cardinals in the Section 8AAA championship March 26. The results of that game will be posted online and in the April 3 issue of the Sauk Rapids Herald. “We’re excited to go up there, and we’re going to play our hearts out and see what happens,” Peterson said. “I guarantee
PHOTOS BY EVAN MICHEALSON
Dominic Mathies shouts with excitement after making a 3-pointer March 23 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Mathies was electrifying from longrange, connecting on five 3-pointers in a 59-52 Storm victory.
you Alex is not looking forward to that.” SAR SRR
24 28-52 23 36-59 SRR: Mathies 19 points (3R, 3A, 4S), Moilanen 12 (5R, 5A, 3S), Alex Harren 9, Walrath 8 (4R), Ethan Opsahl 5 (5R, 4A), Andrew Harren 4 (6R) and Carter Loesch 2 (7R).
Jayce Walrath (right) tries to block a shot attempt from Sartell’s Evan Templin March 23 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. The Storm’s defense came to play when it was needed, holding the Sabres to 52 points.
m h y
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | Page 19
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Page 2B | HOME AND GARDEN GUIDE | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS
Automated, robotic mower
gaining
popularity Keeps grass cut without human intervention BY JAKOB KOUNKEL | STAFF WRITER
At Mimbach Fleet Supply in Sauk Rapids, Bobby Hunt, the store’s power equipment department manager, thinks he sells one of the best mowers on the market. It is called the Husqvarna Automower, and after 20 years of research, it is now an industry leader in robotic mowing with over a million units sold worldwide. “Basically, it’s a mower that you don’t have to touch,” Hunt said. “It’s like a Roomba
(vacuum) for your yard – it’s a robotic mower.” Hunt said no matter the yard size, shape or complexity, there is an Automower model that can do the job. The mowers feature advanced navigation, including GPS on some models; the ability to connect via Bluetooth to a smart device; and the durability to operate in any condition so long as grass is showing. Hunt said customers have been surprised at the mower’s
ability to manage slopes up to 24 degrees and how the device easily navigates around obstacles such as trampolines, swing sets, gardens, weeds and other blockades. Various models have different features, but every Husqvarna Automower model is fully electric. Hunt said once the parameters are set up, either by GPS or by burying a wire underground, it does not require human touch to get the machine back on the charger. After mowing or once the battery is depleted, the mower makes its way back to the docking station to charge. “Once this thing gets kicked in and it starts doing your yard, you’ll have the best yard in your area,” Hunt said.
Hunt said it allows better mulching for the customer’s yard and results in a greener, healthier lawn. Because the Automower does not require human interaction, it can mow the lawn to a consistent height. “Some people worry that, because it’s automated, it’ll make tracks in their yards,” Hunt said. “Nope.” The mower takes varying routes, seemingly random, while covering the entirety of the designated area. Hunt said it is effective in reducing track marks or eliminating them all together. As far as safety concerns, Husqvarna maintains it is as safe as a traditional mower because of collision and lift sensors. If the body of the
PHOTO BY JAKOB KOUNKEL
A Husqvarna Automower sits on display at Mimbach Fleet Supply in Sauk Rapids March 10. Pictured is one of the base models.
mower bumps into an object, it reverses course. If the mower is lifted off the ground for any reason, the blade and mower stop immediately. Hunt said the base models start around $1,000 to $1,500, depending on the customer’s specific needs.
Robotic mower page 3B
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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS| SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | HOME AND GARDEN GUIDE | Page 3B
PHOTOS BY JAKOB KOUNKEL
Bobby Hunt, Mimback Fleet Supply power equipment department manager, fiddles with the blade on the Husqvarna Automower at the store in Sauk Rapids March 10. He was displaying the underbelly of the mower.
Robotic mower from page 2B “A customer base that we push it toward are people who have cabins and such up north,” Hunt said. “That can mow for you while you’re away from
your cabin.” Instead of hauling a lawn mower on a trailer to the cabin, people who bought the Automower leave it in operation while they are away. Hunt said it is a massive time saver for that specific demographic. “This thing is super cool,” Hunt said. “I’d buy one in a heartbeat.”
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Mimbach Fleet Supply power equipment department manager Bobby Hunt demonstrates how easy it is to operate the Husqvarna Automower March 10 at Mimbach Fleet Supply in Sauk Rapids. A number pad and buttons under the top panel are for security and settings preferences.
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Page 4B | HOME AND GARDEN GUIDE | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS
Housing demand remains high in Benton County
Local realtors say lack of inventory makes it a seller’s market BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER
High demand, low supply. That describes the local housing market, which has been resilient in spite of the coronavirus pandemic. As local realtors enter the spring season, they expect buyer
demand to continue to surge. For a year, home buying has been competitive in Benton County. Fueling the interest has been record-low mortgage rates and a sudden wave of relocations made available by remote work. With high buyer demand, however, comes a lagging supply. “There’s just not much inventory right now,” said Sam
4 STEP PROGRAM
Spring
2
14 offers. He heard of another that had 21. Some home buyers, he said, are bidding $20,000 to $30,000 over asking price. Sellers once again have the upper hand. “It is a seller’s market,” said Berni Halaas, realtor and CEO with New Century Realty in Sauk Rapids. “Everyone right now has the opportunity to get the most money for their home.” Halaas said the median sales price of Benton County homes in 2019 was $200,000. In 2020, it jumped to $215,500.
“It’s definitely going up from there,” Halaas said of home prices in 2021. “People that didn’t sell their house last year will get more this year for those that are well maintained.” Last year, home sales totaled $131,157,449 in Benton County, up nearly $1.5 million from 2019, according to Halaas. On average, properties had been on the market 21 to 28 days before moving to a pending sale status, according to Halaas.
Housing page 5B
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Lieser, a Sauk Rapids-based realtor with Edina Realty. Last January, Benton County had 115 homes on the market, but this January there were only 81, according to Lieser. “Simply put, there’s not enough homes to go around,” said Brian Helmin, a Foley native and realtor with Premier Real Estate Services. As a result of the shortage, home prices have steadily climbed, and available properties are receiving multiple offers. One of Lieser’s listings had
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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS| SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | HOME AND GARDEN GUIDE | Page 7B PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER
Shoes are stacked to help reduce the amount of space they occupy. Julie Braun, owner of Smart Organing Solutions, suggests people look for ways to make the most of their space when organizing.
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Closets from page 6B Braun said once all the items are removed from a closet, a person needs to decide what items they plan to keep and which they plan to purge. Each closet is different when it comes to which items should remain, but Braun often uses the oneyear rule of thumb when making decisions. “Whatever you haven’t used in the last year, you’re most likely not going to use ever again,” she said. “I’m not saying I follow that rule necessarily; I’m guilty of hanging onto things that I probably shouldn’t.” Braun said people who are hesitant to part with clothing can turn all their
Braun said people who are hesitant to part with clothing can turn all their hangers the wrong way until a piece of clothing is worn. In a year, they will know which clothes they used. Clothing a size up or down can be stored in a dated tote in a basement, attic or garage to be revisited. hhangers the h wrong way until a piece of clothing is worn. In a year, they will know which clothes they used. Clothing a size up or down can be stored in a dated tote in a basement,
i or garage to be b attic revisited. “But I would recommend not keeping them,” Braun said.
Closets page 8B
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Page 8B | HOME AND GARDEN GUIDE | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS
Closets from page 7B
For linens, discard sheets that no longer fit beds and reduce the number of extra sets to one. Nostalgic items can be
saved longer than the oneyear recommendation, but Braun said items should be revisited for regular downsizing to ensure a homeowner’s space is being used wisely. “This last Christmas, I had a whole tote of things that my kids had made me as they were growing
up. I wrapped up those items for each of them and gave them back,” said Braun, whose children are now adults with their own homes. … “The burden is on them now as to whether or not they want to keep it.” After the purging process, Braun said people
should clean the closet thoroughly before putting away their possessions. Shelves and walls can be wiped down to remove dust, and cobwebs should be removed. Then, the closet should be swept and scrubbed or vacuumed. When it comes to replacing items, organization is key. Toiletries should be categorized, separated into clear plastic containers with lids and labeled. “Placing small items into decorative baskets on your shelves is a good thing to do,” Braun said. She gave the example of keeping a basket of socks, a basket of underwear and a basket of leggings in a bedroom closet and reiterated the baskets should be labeled accordingly. “It’s not only appealing to look at, but it contains them, and it’s easy to put your clothes away after you wash them,” Braun said. Labels help people maintain organization, she
said. Braun also recommended space saving items such as hangers that collapse and store several tops or bottoms on one rung or shoe stackers, which reduce the width a pair of shoes is stored. “I like using these because I like to keep my winter clothes hung in a different closet during summer,” Braun said of Wonder Hanger, an as seen on TV storage solution. “It makes a lot more room on
your closet pole.” A clean closet can help build confidence and bring about joy, according to Braun. She said she has seen emotional changes with clients who have taken the steps and maintained organization. And, for those who might be overwhelmed before they even begin, Braun said there is always help. “They certainly can call us,” she said.
25
PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER
A collapsible hanging device allows a person to store many clothing items or lines on one rung. The increases capacity in a cramped closet.
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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS| SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | HOME AND GARDEN GUIDE | Page 9B
2020 seed trial winners
The University of Minnesota and the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Volunteers have been running a flower and vegetable varietal trial since 1982. Extension Master Gardeners around the state devote some of their garden space to the selected varietals and keep records throughout the growing season. The results are then collected, analyzed and shared with the public. Seeds that have previously been tested include heirlooms, generationally saved seeds, promised highyielding seeds, easy growing, space saving
UNIVERSITY OF MN EXTENSION KATIE DREWITZ
and beautiful. The university selects six vegetables varietals and two flower varietals each year. In 2020, an herb was also included. Winners and recommendations are based on flavor, disease and insect tolerance,
productivity and germination rate. The 2020 winners are Amazing cauliflower, Wisconsin 55 tomato (medium size, red), Purple King purple pole beans, Picolino mini cucumbers, Garrison red leaf lettuce, Emerald Tower basil (mildew resistant), Fancy Smoky Eyes white larkspur and Stopwatch portulaca. To learn more about this seed trial and see other varietals in the trial, visit www.extension. umn.edu and search seed trials. As you flip through seed catalogs and shop nurseries this spring, consider adding these
varietals to your garden. You never know when you might find your new favorite. This article was compiled from the
University of Minnesota Extension website. For additional information or questions, please reach out to your local Extension Educator.
Residents in Stearns, Benton and Morrison counties can call 320255-6169, Ext. 1.
University of Minnesota Seed Trial Winners Year
Vegetable or Flower ...... Winning Variety
2020 2020 2020 2020 2020 2020 2020 2020 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017
Cauliflower ..............................................................Amazing White larkspur ......................................Fancy Smoky Eyes Tomato (medium size, red) ........................Wisconsin 55 Basil (mildew-resistant) .......................... Emerald Tower Purple pole bean..............................................Purple King Cucumber (mini) .....................................................Picolino Portulaca .............................................................. Stopwatch Red leaf lettuce .......................................................Garrison Tall yellow snapdragon ...............Aromas Fresh Lemon Red-orange nasturtium ................................Indian Chief Mint....................................................................Licorice Mint Early tomato ........................................................ 4th of July Snap pea ...............................................................Sugar Ann Red cabbage.............................................Ruby Perfection Golden beet ...................................................... 3-Root Grex Arugula ..........................................................................Surrey Sweet pea ..............................................................Millenium Edamame..........................................................Chiba Green Salvia ..................................................................Victoria Blue Large leaf basil ..............................................................Nufar Yellow bean.......................................................... Gold Rush Yellow tomato ......................................................... Valencia Small yellow squash............................. Sweet Dumpling Bunching onion ............................................................ Feast Yellow carrot ..................................................Yellow Bunch Currant tomato ............................................White Current Brussel sprout.............................................................Gustus Purple cauliflower ................................................Depurple Broccoli ............................................................. Green Magic Note: 2016 selected best pollinator in variety Rudbeckia ................................................................. Irish Eye Snapdragon ................................ Chantilly Cream Yellow Salvia ................................................................ Coral Nymph Sunflower...................................................... Lemon Queen Marigold ...................................................................Bambino Zinnia ............................................. PopArt Red and White
2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016
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Page 10B | HOME AND GARDEN GUIDE | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS
Know who’s Doorbell cameras are a popular home security feature BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER
With a new home security device, the old knock-knock joke falls flat because you already know who is there. The video doorbell, also known as a doorbell camera, is a home security device that connects to smartphones and tablets. Placed on the front door, the wireless outdoor camera works like a security camera, capturing video at all hours. But the
PHOTO BY ELLARRY PRENTICE
A video doorbell detects motion at a residence in Sauk Rapids. The home security device provides real-time notifications when visitors or deliveries arrive.
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device goes a step further by allowing users to see, hear and speak to visitors from virtually anywhere in the world, whether homeowners are on the couch or miles away from home. The electronic devices send realtime notifications to
smartphones or tablets when visitors trigger built-in motion sensors, have two-way audio, and capture high-definition video of people and packages on the ground. Connected to WiFi, video doorbells can be battery-powered or hardwired into an existing doorbell and chime setup. Some doorbell cameras use artificial intelligence to differentiate between
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store.google.com High-definition video with 160-degree field of view and night vision; facial recognition; 24/7 streaming with continuous video recording; two-way talk with noise and echo cancellation; person, motion and sound alerts; can recognize packages then send a special alert; and users can prerecord quick responses.
bluebyadt.com High-definition video with night vision, facial recognition, twoway talk with noise cancellation, custom motion detection zones, push notifications with video previews, works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa and IFTTT, works independently or with an ADT or LifeShield home security system.
ring.com All Ring devices have high-definition video with night vision, two-way talk, motion detection and alerts, and can be controlled from the Ring mobile app or an Amazon Alexa-enabled device. More advanced devices have features such as built-in greetings and aerial view. With the Quick Replies feature, users can take a message from visitors when they are not available; it is like an answering machine for your door.
people and other moving objects, and some alert users of motion of any kind. Users get notified via a mobile app that works with the video doorbell brand they choose.
Doorbells page 11B
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Page 12B | HOME AND GARDEN GUIDE | SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS
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