Sauk Rapids Herald - September 26 edition

Cross-country page 17

2 Second Ave. S., Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379

Saturday, September 26, 2020

Same Local Coverage Since 1854.

Vol. 166, No. 25

Rice council prepares for 2021 Preliminary levy set to increase $46,980

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

RICE – The tax rate in the city of Rice will remain relatively flat in 2021.

The Rice City Council approved unanimously an increase of less than 1% for a total increase of $46,980 that will be spread amongst the city’s taxpayers. The city’s tax rate will be approximately 33.55% in 2021 compared to 33.46% in 2020.

The preliminary levy of $568,985 and will be divided into six funds. The general fund will see the majority of the money, taking in $433,835. The fire department will see $63,850 with an additional $27,300 going to a firetruck bond payment and another $7,900 being used for the fund that volunteer firefighters may draw retirement from once they have reached a number of vested years of service. The street fund will be allotted $36,000 of the levy and $100 will be used toward the recreation fund.

Rice City Council page 3

PHOTO BY JAKOB KOUNKEL

Bethany Oberg, initiative coordinator at CommUNITY Adult Mental Health Initiative, stands outside the entrance to the Benton County Human Services building Sept. 18 in Foley. Oberg is a Benton County employee whose position is funded through a grant.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month shines light on mental health services Efforts focused on eliminating negative stigma, gaps in service

lives. To Oberg, initiative coordinator at CommUNITY Adult Mental Health Initiative, if 25% of Americans are burdened with mental health struggles, everybody should play a role in eliminating the negative stigma often tied to mental health.

BY JAKOB KOUNKEL | STAFF WRITER With September being Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, organizations FOLEY – Bethany Oberg said 1 in 4 that serve Benton County are working people will be affected by a mental health to increase awareness as it relates to all disorder or illness at some point in their mental health struggles, knowing suicide

can be a pernicious byproduct of many psychological ailments.

“There’s so many resources, and being able to share them helps save lives and removes the stigma,” Oberg said.

“It’s OK not to be OK.” CommUNITY serves Benton, Sherburne, Stearns and Wright counties.

Suicide awareness page 4

construction Ready for

Pleasantview Elementary School project nears ground-breaking

C

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER | STAFF WRITER

onstruction fencing is in place and drainage utilities have been relocated on the corner of 11th Street and 4 1/2 Avenue. Both are sure signs that breaking ground on the new Pleasantview Elementary School is in the near future.

“This is great,” said Brad Bergstrom, superintendent of the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District. “This is a wonderful project for the community, and we are excited to get shovels in the ground and get going.”

The school district is awaiting approval from the state to begin the project and is planning to

hold a ground-breaking ceremony prior to the start of construction with district administration, school board members and other community stakeholders. The district also hopes to have kids involved in the ground breaking

but details have yet to be finalized.

The new Pleasantview Elementary School building will be over 115,000 square feet compared to the 80,000 square feet utilized between the current building and portable classroom units. The new building will accommodate about 800 students.

There are 663 students enrolled at the site for the 2020-21 school year.

The two-story building will

PUBLIC NOTICES • City of Sauk Rapids Winter Parking Notice - pg. 10 • Benton County Board of Commissioners Public Hearing - pg. 10 • Benton County Planning Commission Public Hearing - pg. 10

OBITUARIES • Marilyn J. Neubert • Gordon A. Rehder

be located on the northwest corner of the 11-acre lot, with bus access on the southwest corner off of 4 1/2 Avenue.

The project enlists a large amount of local labor. Fifty percent of the contractors set to work on the building are within 50 miles of Sauk Rapids, with 67% of the construction costs awarded to those same local contractors.

Construction page 3

ST R

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NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 | Page 3

What’s Happening

Construction

Do you know of a free, public event or a civic group that has returned to regularly scheduled, in-person meetings?

Email natasha@saukherald.com or call the Sauk Rapids Herald office at 320-251-1971 to have events placed in the What’s Happening calendar. Events published one issue before occurrence.

from front

“That was one of the (school) board’s goals from the get-go,” Bergstrom said. “There’s a sense of pride when it comes from your community.”

There is another local aspect in the project manager, Kyle Walter. Walter works with ICS Consulting and has managed the Tech and Sartell high school projects in recent years. Walter lives within the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District boundaries, which adds a personal touch.

The biggest challenge of the new construction on the same site as the current building is the size of the lot.

“It is not a big site,” said Brad Berghuis, director of buildings and grounds for the district.

“Once the new building is up, the new gymnasium will be within 20 feet of the current school building.”

Other challenges have been the rerouting of the existing public drainage way and removal of the iconic oak tree. While the tree had to be removed due to it being in the middle of the proposed building, the theme of the aged tree will be carried over into the interior aesthetics of the school, with texturing and coloring similar to tree bark on the wall and sun shining through a canopy of leaves on the floor

Saturday, Sept. 26, 10 a.m. to noon – Rewriting the Rural Narrative. Hosted by the Stearns County Critical Conversations group via Zoom. Featuring Ben Winchester, rural communities’ expert of the University of Minnesota. Zoom identification number is 878 2312 8165 or email stearns12DFL@gmail.com.

The Sauk Rapids-Rice High School Class of 1980 Reunion, originally slated for Sept. 26, is canceled.

The Benton County Women Making History Banquet, originally slated for Sept. 27, is canceled.

Monday, Sept. 28, 5 p.m. – Sauk Rapids City Council Meeting K-9 Demonstration. Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Monday, Sept. 28, 6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids City Council Meeting. Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

A project site plan describes what the grounds of Pleasantview Elementary School will look like upon its completion in 2022.

in the entryway.

Traffic flow around the new building will be improved as well. The new parking lot will have approximately 131 stalls, an increase of roughly one-third. The lot will also provide a larger queuing area for student pick-up and drop-off to allow for less build-up on the surrounding roads.

Once the new school is completed in spring 2022, the Pleasantview staff will move items from classrooms and offices into the new building. Throughout

Rice City Council from front explained some general election procedures. No absentee or mailed ballots will be accepted at Rice City Hall; all must be turned in at the Benton County Auditor-Treasurer’s office, 531 Dewey St., Foley. People can also register to vote prior to election day at that same place.

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 3 at Rice City Hall for the city’s residents. Same-day registration will also be done at that time with the proper identification.

Fandel reminded council members that Langola Township is mail-ballot only and should anyone field questions from their residents, those residents should receive their ballots in the mail and return them to Benton County. They cannot vote at city hall on election day, she said.

Skroch said Langola Township residents should approach their township supervisors should they have concerns with the townships election procedures.

that summer, the existing facility will be demolished and the site will be finalized for the school to open fall 2022.

Some expected amenities for the community will be the larger parking lot, access to the gymnasium and cafeteria for larger events such as concerts, a new playground, a sledding hill and open green space which can be used for activities such as youth baseball.

The expectations for the new Pleasantview Elementary School rise as the – Approved unanimously the purchase of 50 upgraded water meters by Dec. 31 to replace existing meters in the city. The city plans to replace all meters over time.

– Approved adding the treasurer position to the collective bargaining agreement as recommended by the city attorney. The vote was 4-1, with council member Bryan Anderson voting against.

Tuesday, Sept. 29, 11:30 a.m. – TOPS Weekly Meeting.

Weigh-in followed by meeting focused on healthy eating, incentives, fun and friendship. Atonement Lutheran Church, 1144 29th Ave. N., St. Cloud. For more informaconstruction phase nears, tion, call 320-492-0410. and district staff are eager Tuesday, Sept. 29, 4-6 p.m. – Rice Area Farmers Marto get started. ket. Last of season. Sponsored by Rice Women of Today.

“Not only is this build- Veterans Memorial Park at the intersection of North Diviing going to be meeting sion and East Main streets in Rice. the needs of our students for the next 50-plus years, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 4:30-7:30 p.m. – Meat Raffle benbut it is also meeting a efitting ALS. Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benneed and understanding ton Dr., Sauk Rapids. the history and culture of the neighborhood,” Berg- Wednesday, Sept. 30, 6-7 p.m. – Living Waters Food strom said. “It is a part of Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 the community rather than Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids. standing out. I can’t wait Wednesday, Sept. 30, 7-8 p.m. – Fall Gardening to get kids and staff walk- Knowledge for Free. Hosted by the Stearns County Exing through the door in the tension Master Gardeners. Two-part webinar series Sept. fall of 2022.”

30 and Oct. 1. First session: pollinator gardens. Register at z.umn.edu/GKFF for the virtual opportunity. Call 320255-6169 or email extension@stearns.co.mn.us with questions.

– Jay Shields ap- Thursday, Oct. 1, 7 p.m. – Sauk Rapids American Leproached the council with gion Post 254 Meeting. First Thursday of each month. interest in running adult Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benton Dr., Sauk softball leagues at the city Rapids. ballpark. The previous organizer has declined for Thursday, Oct. 1, 7-8 p.m. – Fall Gardening Knowledge personal reasons. Fandel for Free. Hosted by the Stearns County Extension Maswill work with Shields on ter Gardeners. Two-part webinar series Sept. 30 and Oct. the field lease, and Shields 1. Second session: evaluating the 2020 growing season.

Register at z.umn.edu/GKFF for the virtual opportunity. was instructed to visit with Call 320-255-6169 or email extension@stearns.co.mn.us the previous organizer with questions. about obtaining the equipment the group owns at the Friday, Oct. 2, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 park.

Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Sale Starts Monday, Sept. 28th - Sunday, Oct. 11th

Sauk Rapids

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During a work session prior to the regular meeting, Rice Mayor Brian Skroch said the increase will allow the city to replace a computer server while also putting money aside for street projects and emergency services equipment. The increase also earmarks $5,000 for an additional part-time police officer; the city hopes to grow its police department in future years.

One large emergency service expenditure is the purchase of updated radios for the police and fire departments. City treasurer Sheri Johnson said all officers and volunteer firefighters are in need of the new equipment; the radios have been quoted between $4,500-$6,500 each.

Each year tax authorities certify preliminary levies with the county prior to October. Those numbers can be reduced prior to Dec. 31 but cannot increase.

In other council news: – Clerk Julie Fandel

Tuesday, Sept. 29, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

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NEWS

Page 4 | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Rice Elementary receives donated supplies

Mental health resources Central Minnesota Health Center Crisis Services 800-635-8008 Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline 833-600-2670 Mental Health Minnesota Warmline 877-404-3190 or text “support” to 85511 Wellness in the Woods Warmline 844-739-6369 (call or text) National Alliance of Mental Illness Minnesota - www.namimn.org Minnesota Mental Health - www.mnmentalhealth.org

Suicide awareness from front

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Rice Elementary staff members Carrie Zack (from left) and Shantal Spoden choose from a variety of donated school supplies from East Central Energy Aug. 31 in Rice. Known as Teacher Totes, the items were donated by ECE in partnership with CoBank, a financial institution that supports the work of cooperatives nationwide through their Sharing Success program.

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Seed money courtesy of Thrivent Financial Action Team Dollars

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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Oberg said each community’s needs vary. In Benton County, the initiative focuses specifically on the large agricultural and rural community.

Mental health resources in Benton County vary from hotlines to physical, on-the-ground services. More specifically, the Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline is available 24 hours per day, seven days per week at 833-600-2670.

The phone line is free and confidential with trained mental health professionals receiving the calls.

Benton County also participates with the mobile crisis response team, which is based in St. Cloud and Monticello. The mobile crisis team can go directly to a home if somebody is experiencing a mental health crisis. Oberg said if someone is experiencing a mental health emergency, the first number that should be called is 911.

Another valuable asset to Benton County residents is a statewide warmline 844-7396369 comprised of trained professionals who offer peer support.

Professionals taking calls have personal experience with mental health issues across the spectrum.

The Wellness in the Woods warmline is meant to be a resource where callers can share common ground with those answering the phones – an important phone line for some who would not otherwise call, Oberg said.

“If somebody on the other end of the line can relate and even do some guided meditation together

or something like that, it’s just another line of support,” Oberg said.

Within Benton County Human Services, the county has case management services available for children and adults.

The service is there to walk community members through services and make recommendations and referrals as to where to head next, whether it be a therapist or in-patient treatment.

“They work hard at their jobs and sometimes I don’t really know how they do it,” Oberg said.

“They’re often miracle workers to help people get connected with services and help people be stable with their mental health.”

Although Oberg and staff at the CommUNITY initiative work every day to raise awareness, promote available resources and attempt to reach everybody they can with mental health services, there are variables out of their control that prevent services from reaching members of the community.

“One of the most unfortunate things with all the mental health resources that are available, unfortunately it comes down to affordability and what kind of insurance people have,” Oberg said.

Those of lower socioeconomic status are often able to obtain services, but Oberg said there is a gap that needs to be filled. Those with less ability to pay qualify for free services, whereas those with a modest amount of resources who cannot afford extra expenses do not qualify for free services and, often times, their insurance does not pay for needed help.

“My personal belief is if we had an insurance that would cover all these services that would make for a healthier society,” Oberg said.

While identifying gaps in services and trying to fill those gaps is one of the CommUNITY initiative’s primary objectives, Oberg said it is only half the battle. The other half comes in the form of defeating the stigma with mental health so people are willing to seek help.

Oberg likened mental illness to another common and lifethreatening illness that does not have the same stigma: cancer.

She said it takes, on average, 10 years from the first onset of mental health symptoms for a person to seek help.

“Who would wait 10 years to get help for cancer treatment?” she said. “Stigma prevents people from getting help and ultimately prevents people from being able to live because they don’t go get help.”

In a hopeful tone, Oberg also said things have gotten significantly better from even 10 years ago, although she conceded it is hard to quantify. She maintains that eliminating the stigma around mental health topics is the most important undertaking on the table at it relates to awareness and prevention.

“It’s gotten better, but we have so much farther to go,” Oberg said. “There’s more stigma to break and more barriers to get over for people before it’s not as taboo.”

If experiencing a mental health emergency, Oberg said to call 911. The website, mnmentalhealth.org, has a list of local resources and providers available along with financial information. For crisis situations, Benton County residents can call Central Minnesota Mental Health Center Crisis Services at 800-635-8008.

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Page 6 | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Protecting roses for winter W i n t e r protection for roses depends on the kind of rose.

Rugosa roses, bush or climbers bred in Canada, are hardy and may survive well with little protection. GREEN & GROWING BENTON COUNTY H o w e v e r , IN

BY LINDA G. TENNESON hybrid tea roses are tender and require winter protection. Protection from the wind keeps the canes from drying out, and insulation keeps the water in the stems from repeated freezing and thawing which can cause the cell walls to break open and kill the plant. All rose types benefit from a good watering and an application of dormant spray before being protected. When the temperature reaches approximately 20 degrees, protect roses by one of the following methods. The canes are tied together with twine and a chicken wire or similar enclosure is placed around the bush. Fill the enclosure with leaves, packing them in, but do not break the canes. The leaves will provide insulation and wind protection. An alternative is to mound 1 foot or more of soil around the base of the bush. The soil should be brought in from another source, not dug up from around the bush which would expose the roots to temperature extremes. The canes of climbing roses may be detached from their supports, laid on the ground and then covered with a mulch of leaves or straw.

The Minnesota tip method provides a lot of protection but requires some effort on the part of the gardener.

The rose canes may be pruned to 1-2 feet in height to make tipping the bush easier.

However, some rose growers do not do any pruning in the fall because the cuts leave open wounds on the canes. Tie the canes together with twine that will not biodegrade in a few months. Leave a length of twine attached to the top of the bush which will be used to mark its location once buried and to help raise it in the spring. The next step is to dig a trench 6-8 inches deep next to one side of the bush and equal to the height of the bush.

Loosen the soil on the opposite side of the bush with a garden fork. Use the fork to gently pry the bush up on the opposite side and tip it over into the trench. The goal is to gently bend the roots but not to break them. If the soil around the bush is loose, the roots should be flexible enough to bend. Anchor the bush with a second garden fork or something similar until the bush can be covered with soil. An additional layer of straw, leaves or similar material may be placed on top of the soil and held down by wire netting or similar material. All of these protection methods should be removed slowly in the spring as the ground thaws. Mark the location of each bush as a reminder to uncover it in the spring.

Polystyrene cones are sold for rose protection in winter. These cones need to be anchored down to the ground and have some means of ventilation to prevent the rose canes from being cooked if sunshine raises the temperature too high inside the cone. The Minnesota Rose Society does not recommend their use.

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

EDITORIAL

Come out from among them

Right before my eyelids closed at night, a apart from the truth is following the devil. Do notification on my phone went off. My cousin not dance back and forth watching the No. 1 messaged me, asking what my thoughts were rated show on Netflix and then tell others not on the president’s speech at the Minnesota to watch immoral shows. Do not get drunk rally. I took a deep breath, knowing this was every week, slandering your neighbor, sleeping going to pull me away from my calling by around, joining riots and lawless deeds, not sorting out politics when I desire hearts to reading your Bible and then proclaim, “I am grow in knowing God’s character. I did not a Christian.” Believe, surrender fully, make a want to reply with a quick thoughtless answer, stance, then live set apart. so I asked myself, “Could I do both, grow her It is not popular to live holy. Your posts will LIFE BY FAITH heart to know God’s character more and talk not get as many likes and not as many people

BY MERCY NYGAARD are going to invite you over. To live set apart politics?”

A friend sent me a video of Shane is a battle because you will always be pulled to Idleman’s sermon titled, “Come out from Among Them appease the flesh which lusts after pleasure and life pulls and be Holy.” Holy means, by definition, to be set apart. us toward pride. Renewing our mind makes our pull to the Evidence of genuine faith is a love for God and His Word savior greater than the pull away from him. We begin to and obedience to it. Perfection is not attainable, but moving realize our marriage will fail without him, our soul will consistently in the right direction toward obedience and be empty and our nation will crumble. Any presidential holiness is. When you live set apart, what you watch looks candidate that refuses to allow God to work in him and different than what the world watches. What you post and to counsel over us is going to follow the opposite. As how you behave and how you talk looks different. Be a result, we will see more deaths of the unborn, more not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the unions between the unnatural, more harm to our innocent renewing of your mind, Romans 12:2. That is where it children, more division between race. Trump is not starts, consciously and intentionally thinking of Jesus and perfect. Biden is not perfect. Kanye West is not perfect. inputting his word into your mind.

Which one is seeking God and allowing the Bible to stand Doing certain things and obeying Jesus does not as truth, guiding and lighting our path as one nation under actually save us. We do good things and obey because we God? Each candidate has said something that makes you are saved. It starts with complete surrender and belief in cringe and that concerns us, but which one has surrounded Jesus as our savior and redeemer. When we repent of our themselves with Biblical counsel and trusted advisors that sins and believe in God and love him above all else, we live set apart? Vote based on your convictions and which continue in our sanctification until the day we see Jesus. vote will protect the constitution, the weak and our freedom Meaning, we slowly transform into his likeness, never of religion the most. Do not mistake weak for lazy. By fully arriving until we see him. We are fallen followers of weak I mean those who cannot speak for themselves.

Jesus. Jesus is the only one who is perfect.

So, to answer my cousin, I did not think a whole lot of 2 Corinthians, “Oh Corinthians, (Oh church!) do not President Trump’s speech. I pray for him, and I base my be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership vote on who will protect the constitution, the weak and our has righteousness with lawlessness? What fellowship has freedom of religion the most. I continue to strive to live set light with darkness?” The same song has played throughout apart, laying down my rights to myself and learning more history. Elijah came to all the people, “How long will you about God’s character. There is nothing more powerful and falter between two opinions? If the Lord is God follow uniting than the cross because on it all humanity hinged its him, but if Baal, follow him.” destiny and Jesus’ blood became the emulsifier for both We are the ones that complicate things. We are not groups, Ephesians 2:14-18. Coming out from among them of the world, but sent into the world to live set apart is going back to our mission as followers of Christ, not of and proclaim the good news of Jesus who saves. Fully the world but sent into it. Let us stop faltering between two surrender your heart and your rights, then you will see opinions and join together as one, united in Christ, coming the truth in the Bible. You will distinguish that anything out from among the world.

Political letters to the editor policy – Political letters written regarding elections and election platform issues are – Readers will be allowed to submit one political letter every 14 days. limited to 250 words and are printed free of charge. (Ex: Go vote letters, immigration, – All letters to the editor (political or not) require first and last names, gun control, universal healthcare). addresses and phone numbers. Names and city of residency will be pub– Political letters endorsing or opposing a candidate, ballot measure or political lished in the newspaper along with the letter copy. party are subject to charges. Star Publications will charge a flat fee of $25 for 250– The final time and date to submit a political letter to the editor for word or less letters. Display advertising rates will apply to letters exceeding the word the general election is 5 p.m. Oct. 14. limit. Payment must be received prior to copy deadline.

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EDITORIAL

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 | Page 7

National School Lunch Week is coming To recognize the National School – Grains must be 100% whole ol Lunch Program, serving nearly 30 million wheat, and we offer between 8-10 onn w h children each day, Sauk Rapids-Rice per week. ce oounces u Public Schools will celebrate National – Meat, or meat alternatives, naal al School Lunch Week Oct. 12-16. The are offered daily for a total of 8-12 hee ar theme, “Now Playing: School Lunch!” ounces per week. !” ou puts the spotlight on the importance of This guidance allows us to ISD 47 a healthy school lunch in a child’s life. offer multiple types of fruits and f f

By Mel Wiese, Watch for your schools’ food service staff vegetables.

The rule of thumb is you director of food to be dressed up as their favorite movie want to eat as much color as you can service character Oct. 13 as we celebrate. per meal. Remember, healthy foods School lunches offer students fruits offer a variety of immune boosting and vegetables, whole grains and milk, and meet benefits to help keep our bodies strong during the cold federal nutrition standards limiting fat, calories and and flu season. sodium. National School Lunch Week helps us educate On behalf of the Sauk Rapids-Rice food service parents and students about all the wonderful benefits of team, we want to say thank you to all of our families our lunch program. and students for helping to make our school lunch Whether the meal is served in our school cafeteria program Storm strong. or picked up and served at your home during distance More great food service news for district families learning, school lunch is something our students and At the board meeting Sept. 21, the board of education families can always count on. As the director of dining approved the USDA Food Waiver that allows free meals services, one of the questions I am frequently asked for all students in our early childhood programs through is, “Why do schools serve the food choices that they 12th grade. This free lunch program began Sept. 22 and do?” As a partner with the United States Department of will run until the funding from the USDA runs out. This Agriculture and Chartwells K-12, our district follows free lunch program is offered by the USDA and is a and promotes the healthy eating initiative. federal program. All Sauk Rapids-Rice early childhood This initiative has guidelines to ensure our students through 12th grade students will receive free lunches are getting the correct amount of nutritious choices regardless of the learning model they are participating during their meals. Some fun facts to help understand in. The federal funding is projected to last until Dec. the guidelines are; 31, but funding may be depleted sooner. The district – Vegetables are divided into four categories: dark will send a Skylert notification to all district families green (broccoli and spinach), red and orange (tomatoes, every two weeks to update the status of the funding, red peppers, radishes and carrots), beans or legumes let families know when the program funding runs out, and peas (chick peas, black beans and baked beans), and when the district will begin to charge for student and starchy (potatoes and jicama). We must offer 3 3/4 lunches. Unlike last spring, this program is only for to 5 cups a week depending on grade level. students enrolled in the district’s early childhood – Fruits require between 2 1/2 to 5 cups per week through 12th grade schools. depending on grade level.

BREAK CROSSWORD

Letter to Editor

Why should you vote?

Rebecca Fiedler, Catholic Charities rural life coordinator, St. Cloud Most Americans over the age of 18 are qualified to vote. Unfortunately, of those qualified to vote, on average only 60% of individuals do. Voting is one of the key freedoms of being an American. Many people in countries around the world do not have the right to vote nor did many Americans in decades past. This year celebrates 100 years since women gained the right to vote, and it was not until 1965 that the Voting Rights Act was signed into law, prohibiting discriminatory practices against African Americans at the polls. That was only 55 years ago.

People have died defending the right to vote. So, if people fought to have their voices heard and the ability to vote, why do we see low voter turnout? Simply put, people believe their voice does not matter. I often hear people say, “It doesn’t pay, it’s not like my one vote is going to really count.” If you have ever had that thought, I urge you to consider the presidential election of 2000.

That year, Al Gore narrowly lost to George W. Bush by only 537 votes. If 600 more Al Gore supporters would

have went to the polls, we would have had an entirely different president.

You can truly make a difference. Your vote matters.

By voting, you are playing a role in choosing our leaders and ultimately changing our laws. When you vote, you get the opportunity to stand up for the issues you care about. It is up to you to choose a candidate who you feel can help your community, state and nation for the greater good. If you do not vote, someone else will make the decision for you. Exercising your right to vote is the only way to ensure your voice is being heard.

Do your homework and research the candidates and issues in your area. Read up on political issues and figure out where you stand. If you are feeling inspired to do more, write letters to public officials and let them know what is important to you. It can be as simple as having respectful dialogue with others in your community. No matter what you believe or whom you support, it is important to exercise your rights. Need information on how to register to vote? Visit www.sos. state.mn.us/elections-voting for more information on how and where to vote in your area.

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Page 8 | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Pulse on People

NEWS

Benton County marriage applications

Fiereck chosen as district’s director of business services

– Ryan Joseph Pekarek and Stephanie Lynn Petron, both of Foley.

– Lawrence Joseph Kroska and Tanya Rose Logan, both of Foley.

– Tim Robert Mendel, of Sauk Rapids, and Molly Lou Martin, of St. Cloud.

Students graduate from Bemidji State University

BEMIDJI – Area students graduated from Bemidji State University following spring semester.

Rice residents Kaysi Florek, Morgan Orcutt, Kristen Petron, John Quinlan and Kristine Symanietz earned bachelor’s degrees. Florek graduated cum laude; Petron and Symanietz graduated magna cum laude.

Sauk Rapids residents Megan Ackerman and Kristin Graham earned bachelor’s degrees with Ackerman graduating cum laude. Tara Wolford, also of Sauk Rapids, earned a master’s degree in teaching.

Begins position Oct. 5 SAUK RAPIDS – Tracey Fiereck is the new face of business services at Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools. Fiereck was chosen for the director position from six applicants and will begin her position Oct. 5.

Prior to taking the position, Fiereck served as the executive director of Central Minnesota Educational Research and Development Council since April 2019.

She held other roles within cmERDC including administrative service manager, telecommunication coordinator, shared accountant and software support.

Fiereck served on the Sauk RapidsRice School for four years from January 2012 to January 2016 and is a member of the district’s curriculum committee. She is a district parent and Sauk Rapids community member.

Fiereck obtained her associate’s degree at St. Cloud Technical and Community College in April 1999, and is working on a bachelor’s degree in business management from St. Cloud State University.

St. Cloud Area Chamber elects new

board members, executive committee

ST. CLOUD – The following individuals have been elected to the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors: Marilyn Birkland, Local iQ; Bernie Perryman, Batteries Plus Bulbs; Kevin Johnson, K. Johnson Construction; Ray Harrington, Pioneer Place; and Colleen Zoffka, GB & Company.

Brenda Sickler, Theisen Dental, was elected as the Sauk Rapids Chamber of Commerce representative. Terms expire Aug. 31, 2023.

The following individuals have been appointed to the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Committee: Ron Brandenburg,

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Quinlivan & Hughes, P.A., chair; Bernie Perryman, Batteries Plus Bulbs, vice chair; Jason Hallonquist, AIS Planning; Chriss Wohlleber, Courtyard by Marriott-St. Cloud; Allison Waggoner, DCI, Inc.; and John Bryant, Geo-Comm Inc. The following individuals will serve as volunteer committee chairs through August 2021: Ron Brandenberg, Quinlivan & Hughes, P.A., is the chamber board of directors chair. Cindy Battleson, Rapids Alterations & Repairs, and Frank Imholte, Black Diamond Auctions, are the co-chairs of the Farm Show. Sangeeta Jha, St. Cloud Technical & Community College is the diversity council chair.

Jodi Speicher, The Good Shepherd Community, is the membership and workforce development division chair. Brenda Sickler, Theisen Dental, is the Sauk Rapids Chamber chair. Jason Hallonquist, AIS Planning, is the business education network chair. Brady DeGagne, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota, is the Waite Park Chamber chair and Chamber Open chair. Paul Ravenberg, Central Minnesota Council-Boy Scouts of America, is the St. Cloud Area Leadership chair. Chase Larson, Falcon National Bank, is the Star Celebration chair. Bernie Perryman, Batteries Plus Bulbs, is the government affairs division chair and top hat ambassadors chair.

Jason Miller, Premier Real Estate Services, is the Chamber Connection chair. Jenna Peterson, Playhouse Childcare Center, is the Big Idea Group chair. Zach Amundson, Coldwell Banker Burnet, is the NEXT-Chamber’s Emerging Leaders chair.

Rachael Sogge, Eyecon Graphics, is the marketing committee chair. Ashley Green, Green Thumb Etc., is the business development council chair. Jill Kampa, Bernick’s, is the convention and visitors bureau board chair.

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NEWS

Crime & Public Safety

phetamine in packaging and over 75 methadone pills.

St. Cloud man killed Rice man taken into custody on Highway 23 ST. CLOUD – Au- after summons

Motorists be aware of all-way stop

ST. CLOUD – Those who travel Highway 23 between St. Cloud and Foley should be prepared to stop as they approach a temporary all-way stop at the signalized intersection of Highway 23 and Highway 95, or 15th Street Northeast, the week of Monday, Sept. 28.

Crews will install a new signal system which is estimated to take a week to complete.

Watch for road signs and be prepared to stop ator-before the intersection.

Allow yourself extra time to get to your destination or consider other routes.

Be alert to workers and equipment at the intersection.

The signal system is part of a larger $3.8 million Highway 23 project underway between Benton County Road 1 and Highway 95 east of St. Cloud.

Motorists can expect single-lane closures and reduced speeds on both directions of Highway 23 through October.

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 | Page 9

thorities responded to a fatal crash Sept. 23 on Highway 23 near 10th Street Northeast in Minden Township.

Dhanjal Singh, 50, of St. Cloud, was struck by a vehicle while riding his bicycle eastbound on Highway 23 shortly after 5:30 a.m., according to the Minnesota State Patrol. He died of injuries sustained in the crash.

The vehicle involved left the scene.

People with information about this incident should contact the St. Cloud office of the state patrol at 320-223-6666.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Sauk GRAPH SUBMITTED Rapids Police Department An all-way stop is in place at the intersection of Highways and Mayo Clinic Ambu23 and 95 beginning Monday, Sept. 28. the Minnesota Department of Transportation it executing a $3.8 million lance assisted the state patrol at the scene. improvement project.

When complete, the project will provide a smoother ride, improve access and safety along 4 miles of Highway 23.

For more project in-

formation, go to mndot. gov/d3/projects/h23stc or contact Josh Daniel, construction project manager, at joshua.daniel@state. mn.us or 320-293-2946.

ST. CLOUD – The League of Women Voters, St. Cloud Area has historically conducted public forums featuring candidates for local governments, school boards and Minnesota legislative districts 13 and 14. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the LWVSCA has developed a new approach that involves video-recording forums with no audience present and uploading the recordings online for later viewing.

Finding suitable locations and arranging for technical assistance have taken some time, given government facilities previously used for forums have not reopened for public meetings.

LWVSCA representatives are now pleased to report approvals to conduct video-taped forums have been granted for a number of events.

The public can participate by submitting questions for candidates in advance by emailing lwvstcloud@ lwvmn.org. Put the name of the race in the title line. Questions should be brief and relate to issues that public officials would ordinarily address in that role.

Questions are due by midnight on the following dates for these races: – Sept. 28: Sartell City Council – Oct. 4: St. Cloud District 742 School Board – Oct. 5: Legislative District 13, House and Senate – Oct. 12: St. Cloud Mayor and St. Cloud City Council – Oct. 13: Legislative District 14, House and Senate After each forum is completed, a link to the recording will be posted on the LWVSCA website at www.lwvsca. org.

Day voting will take place throughout Minnesota Nov. 3.

Minnesota is one of the first states in the country to open absentee voting for all eligible voters. This year’s Aug. 11 primary election saw record-setting participation in absentee voting, and over 926,000 Minnesota voters have already requested an absentee ballot to vote from home in the General Election.

Minnesota voters can request an absentee ballot quickly and easily at mnvotes.org using the online application. Voters can also request an absentee ballot by downloading the 2020 Minnesota Absentee Ballot Application and returning it to their county election office by email, mail or fax. Absentee ballot application forms are available in English, Spanish, Hmong, Somali, Vietnamese, Russian, Chinese, Lao, Oromo, Khmer and Amharic.

Voters can request an absentee ballot even if they are not registered to vote – a voter registration application will be provided with their ballot.

Anyone can go to mnvotes.org to check their eligibility, register to vote, or to locate their county or city election office.

Non-profit organization reveals new name

ST. CLOUD – A non-profit organization has changed its name.

ConnectAbility of MN is the new name of former United Cerebral Palsy of Central Minnesota.

“The new name better reflects the services we provide to individuals with any disability, and the elderly, across the state of Minnesota,” said Sheri Wegner, ConnectAbility of MN executive director.

Under the new name, the same staff members will support the vision of the Absentee, early voting organization: to empower people with physical and invisible barriers to achieve began Sept. 18 ST. PAUL – Early voting their potential. More information about by absentee ballot for the 2020 the organization can be found by going General Election began Sept. 18. to connectabilitymn.org.

The absentee ballot period for all federal, state, judicial and county offices runs through Nov. 2. In-person Election

Sauk Rapids man arrested on multiple charges

FOLEY – Nathan Adams, 64, of Sauk Rapids was arrested Sept. 18 on multiple charges. Adams is facing one count felony second-degree assault and one count felony threats of violence as well as lesser charges. Combined, the felonies have a maximum sentence of 12 years in jail and a $24,000 fine.

According to a criminal complaint signed Sept.

3, Sauk Rapids police officers were dispatched to a home on the 800 block of Seventh Avenue North shortly before 1 a.m.

March 30 for a domestic dispute involving a knife.

Adams was released from custody Sept. 21.

VETERANS DAY Coming November 7 & 10, 2020

News Briefs

Public invited to submit questions for forums

FOLEY – Shamso Danan, 35, of Rice, was taken into custody at the Benton County Jail Sept.

22 stemming from a May incident.

According to a criminal complaint, Danan is facing three counts of felony second-degree controlled substance and one count of felony third-degree controlled substance.

Each count carries a maximum prison sentence of at or over 20 years as well as fines from $250,000$500,000.

The Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force conducted a search warrant March 5 at Danan’s residence on the 1000 block of 95th Street Northwest in Watab Township as part of a wholesale methamphetamine investigation. Authorities located over 30 grams of metham-

A Supplement to

VETERANS

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Coming November 7 & 10, 2020 Saluting ng our ou ur Vete V Ve Veterans te

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ATTENTION Veterans Be included in this years special section!

If you would like to be included in this section please list the following:

Name Branch of Military Years of Service

Please mail to: Benton County News 1061 Hwy. 23, Suite 2a P.O. Box 689 Foley, MN 56329 Published by:

Town • Please print clearly • Deadline for submitting is October 29, 2020 • Names previously submitted do not need to be resubmitted.

Publicat Pu icattio ions ns

PUBLIC NOTICES/NEWS

Page 10 | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Public Notices

Police Report Sauk Rapids Police Department

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Benton County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on October 8th, 2020 the Commissioner’s Room, Benton County Government Center, Foley, and beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Planning Commission will hear the following: 1. 7:00 p.m. JANNEW Properties LLC requesting approval to rezone 14.62 acres from Agricultural District to R-2, Single Family Residence District. Pursuant to Sections 11.9.

The affected property is described as follows: That part of the NW1/4 lying Northeasterly of the Burlington Northern Railroad, Section 15, Watab Township.

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

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

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

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

3. You may attend the meeting remotely by following the instructions below. a. The public can join the meeting from their computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/687827373 b. You can also dial in using your phone.

Phone: 1 (872) 240-3212 Access Code: 687-827-373 New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/687827373 R-39-1B

Incidents: 23 various calls, 17 assists, 17 suspicious activity reports, 14 medical calls, 12 traffic stops, 9 welfare checks, 8 thefts, 7 alarms, 7 property, 7 Sept. 14 0300 hours: While driving on the 1200 driving complaints, 7 animals, 6 human services block of 10th Avenue South, an officer heard a loud reports, 6 disturbances, 5 child, 5 permits, 4 pop next to the squad car. The officer located two accidents, 4 domestics, 3 civil complaints, 3 frauds, fuseless firecrackers on the road and several other 3 attempt to locate, 3 fireworks, 2 traffic hazards, used fuseless firecrackers. The officer collected the 2 fires, 2 fleeing, 2 open doors, 2 extra patrols, 2 items and placed them into evidence to be destroyed. warrants, 2 vehicles, 2 trespassing, 2 violation court orders and 2 explosions.

Sept. 16 1650 hours: Officers responded to the 200 block of Fourth Avenue South for a house fire. Upon Rice Police Department arrival, officers spoke to a female outside the home Sept. 19 2137 hours: Officers responded to a who said she was the only one at the home and fell asleep while cooking. The fire department responded motorcycle accident on the 9700 block of Hemlock Road Northwest. Driver of the motorcycle was and extinguished the fire. pinned by the bike and was having trouble breathing.

Sept. 19 1818 hours: Officers received multiple Driver was transported to the St. Cloud Hospital in 911 calls for two cars racing down the 1200 block of St. Cloud.

Broadway Avenue South at over 100 mph. The St. Incidents: 6 traffic stops, 5 various calls, 4 assists, 4 Cloud police eventually stopped the drivers. driving complaints and 3 record checks.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Benton County Board of Commissioners will a conduct public hearing on October 20th, 2020 in the Commissioner’s Room, Benton County Government Center, Foley, at approximately 9:00 a.m. to hear the following: 1. JANNEW Properties LLC requesting approval to rezone 14.62 acres from Agricultural District to R-2, Single Family Residence District. Pursuant to Sections 11.9. The affected property is described as follows: That part of the NW1/4 lying Northeasterly of the Burlington Northern Railroad, Section 15, Watab Township.

ANYONE wishing to be heard with reference to the above will be heard at this meeting. *Effective immediately, the Benton County Board may conduct its regular, special or emergency meetings by telephone or other electronic means, as permitted by MN Statutes §13D.021. Some or all Board members may participate by telephone or other electronic means until further notice. At least one member of the County or the County Administrator will be present during meetings at the County Board’s regular meeting location, which is the County Board Room in Foley, unless otherwise noted on meeting notices. Pursuant to MN Statutes §13D.021, Subdivision 3, the County will provide the means for persons to electronically monitor such meetings remotely.

To conform to MDH and CDC guidelines to minimize gatherings we are requesting public comment in written form prior

to the County Board meeting; 1. You may submit written testimony, which must be received by 3pm July 20th, in one of two ways: a. Email Roxanne Achman at Roxanne.Achman@ co.benton.mn.us b. Mail comments to the Benton County Department of Development, Attn: Roxanne Achman, 531 Dewey St, PO Box 129, Foley, MN 56329.

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

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

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

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

WINTER PARKING The Sauk Rapids City Council amended its winter parking regulations in 2018 to provide authority to declare a snow emergency in order to clear the City streets and ensure safe passages through the City during winter months for routine travel and emergency services. Every year before November 1st notice of the winter parking rules are to be published in the official city paper. Below is the updated Ordinance (City Code 6.03): Ordinance: Subd.3. Winter Parking A. It shall be unlawful for any vehicle or trailer to be stopped and left unattended, left standing unattended or parked between the hours of 2:00 o’clock a.m. and 7:00 o’clock a.m. of any day between November 1, and March 31 inclusive, on a street, avenue or thoroughfare within the corporate limits of this municipality.

B. Any police officer may remove a vehicle from a street to a garage or other place of safety when the vehicle is left unattended and constitutes an obstruction to traffic or hinders snow removal or street improvement or maintenance opera-

tions. Such vehicle shall not be released until the fees for towing and storage are paid in addition to any fine imposed for violation of this section.

STARTING IN 2019 C. The public Works Director, or his designee, is granted the authority to declare a snow emergency due to the presence or prediction of snowfall in excess of 4 inches, freezing rain, sleet or other natural phenomenon which create or are likely to create hazardous road conditions, and impede the free movement of fire, health, police, emergency or vehicular traffic.

1. A snow emergency announcement shall be made by local radio. The announcement may also be given by other means as determined in the City’s discretion, but shall not replace the one required to be made by local radio. All snow emergency announcements shall state the time period which the condition shall exist, depending on the circumstances, the time period may be extended through subsequent announcements 2. During a snow emergency it is unlawful to park or leave standing any vehicle on any public street, avenue, or alley until the roadway has been fully and completely (curb

to curb) cleaned. These parking regulations shall not apply to operators of wreckers or authorized emergency vehicles while actually serving mechanical, fir medical or police emergencies.

3. Any vehicle which is left parked or standing on a public street during a snow emergency in violation of this section is hereby declared a nuisance and shall be subject to a monetary fine as affixed by the city council from time to time and may be subject to impounding. The owner of any vehicle impounded as a result of such nuisance shall be responsible for any and all cost related to the impounding of said vehicle. The fine imposed on a vehicle pursuant to this section shall not prevent or preclude the institution and prosecution of preceding for violations of this sections against the vehicle owner.

4. Notice of snow emergency parking provisions shall be published in the official paper prior to November 1st of each year. Notice shall also be posted at City Hall at the time of publication.

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Public Notices

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 | Page 13

Rocori defeats Collision twice in one week Girls tennis hosts Apollo Sept. 29

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER STAFF WRITER

It is not too often high school sports teams face the same opponent twice in a row but such was the case for the Collision girls tennis team this week.

The Collision, a cooperative between the Sauk Rapids-Rice and Apollo high schools, started the week Sept.

17 with a home match against Rocori at Apollo High School in St.

Cloud, losing 6-1.

When the Collision traveled to Cold Spring for another match against Rocori Sept. 22, the result was a 5-2 loss.

The team will host Tech High School at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29, at Apollo High School in St. Cloud.

Rocori 5, Collision 2 The lineup looked varied for the Collision in the second match against Rocori Sept. 22. Sophomores Grace Roesch and Belle Haddy shifted from

third and fourth singles to No. 1 doubles, giving the Collision an extra edge and additional team point. Junior co-captain Brynn Karasch earned the other team point in the match.

Singles: No. 1 Karasch 6-2, 6-0, No. 2 Cailey Davidson 3-6, 4-6, No. 3 Ari Nemeth 0-6, 1-6 and No. 4 Liz Ernst 0-6, 1-6. Doubles: No. 1 Roesch-Haddy 6-4, 7-6, No. 2 Addison BemboomBailee Bonebright 2-6, 1-6 and No. 3 Alyssa MeyerMcKinsey Newbanks 3-6, 1-6.

gles, landing back-toback 6-3 set wins.

“Brynn keeps improving her tennis skills and out thinking a very solid competitor,” said Jamie Hatlestad, head coach.

Singles: No. 1 Karasch 6-3, 6-3, No. 2 Davidson 4-6, 4-6, No. 3 Roesch 3-6, 2-6 and No. 4 Haddy 0-6, 2-6. Doubles: No. 1 BemboomMeyer 0-6, 2-6, No. 2 Newbanks-Bonebright 1-6, 1-6 and No. 3 ErnstGabby Jaskolka 2-6, 0-6.

Rocori 6, Collision 1 Karasch put the team on the board at first sin-

Football, volleyball seasons given fall start Campaigns begin Sept. 28

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – During their latest meeting, the board of directors for the Minnesota State High School League was tasked with making a decision that would garner controversy regardless of which route they ultimately would choose.

In a reversal of a previous approval, the board voted to return the high school football and volleyball seasons to the fall sports season Sept. 21.

“For the mental health of my athletes, they’re excited,” said Karen Beckmann, Sauk Rapids-Rice volleyball head coach. “They want to have it back. They were excited just to be back in the gym. They missed it.”

Beckmann and Storm volleyball can now anticipate an 11-week season featuring 14 dual competitions, shortened like their fall peers to account for the pandemic. While football will be allowed to host a 250-person limit at its events, volleyball will join swimming and diving as another indoor sport unable to host fans.

“At first, they were bummed and really wanted to have the spring season so they could have fans,” Beckmann said.

“The fans for volleyball really amp them up. They want to play volleyball, so we’ll make do with

what we have, and we will continue to prepare for our season.”

Despite the initial desire to play in spring, the move to fall enables the volleyball players to participate in their seasons while maintaining the freedom to play in club programs during spring.

Volleyballs clubs allow athletes to stay fresh and not lose any momentum throughout summer.

“To be able to have this in the fall and also have club ball in the spring is a big advantage for our athletes,” Beckmann said.

Both the volleyball and football seasons will begin Sept. 28, allowing a 10-day window for preseason practice before competition, which is set to get underway Oct. 8 for volleyball and Oct. 9 for football. Approved alongside the football season was a two-week postseason, with more details to be determined at the board’s upcoming Oct. 1 meeting.

The likelihood of a state tournament remains close to zero, but that does not change the motivation level for the Sauk RapidsRice football team, who will hold six games in a localized schedule, ending Nov. 28.

“Yes, we would love to play in a state tournament, but every Friday night is a huge deal,” said Phillip Klaphake, Sauk Rapids-Rice football head coach. “Every single game is a huge, big moment. You play for the

A survey conducted by the league found that 76% of member schools wanted volleyball to return to fall, with 80% seconding that notion for football. The board voted 14-4 and 15-3 to approve the re-placement of volleyball and football, respectively. next game, always, and if we have six games, our goal is to go win as many of those games as we can.”

Klaphake has seen the fall football season’s outlook change across a COVID-ravaged summer into autumn. In talking with other coaches over summer, there was lingering uncertainty as to whether or not football would even be on the table. Now, not only is it back, but it is in a familiar fall timeframe.

“I think about my high school opportunities playing in multiple sports as a kid, some of the best experiences I like to think about,” he said. “If we can provide that to kids safely, then I couldn’t be more excited.”

A survey conducted by the league found that 76% of member schools wanted volleyball to return to fall, with 80% seconding that notion for football. The board voted 14-4 and 15-3 to approve the re-placement of volleyball and football, respectively.

There is a high level of polarity regarding the decision, a factor noted

by the board during the meeting. To Klaphake, this result seems like an attempt to strike a balance between the safety of players and giving them their desired activity.

“Life circumstances are different, everyone’s families are different, everyone’s values are different,” he said. “I think they tried hard to find somewhere in the middle, where we can protect communities and kids and still offer this opportunity to those kids who really want it.”

Despite the sudden turnaround regarding the decision, both Storm volleyball and football have been allowed to practice during the fall sports season up until this point.

They will be ready for the upcoming season and whatever it may hold.

“The hard part is there are so many unknowns across the board,” Beckmann said. “We’re trying to make do with what we’re given.”

SRR boy soccer earns first win Kicks past Rocori 2-1

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER | STAFF WRITER

Winning the first game of the season was a celebration and a sigh of relief for the Sauk RapidsRice Storm boys soccer team. The win came in the Sept. 17 game against Rocori when the Storm won 2-1.

“It feels great,” said Chris Rothstein, head coach. “It’s a weight off of everyone’s shoulders.”

Junior forward Eli Moilanen was the hero for the Storm, scoring both goals early in the game.

The first goal came 20 minutes into play from a header off a corner kick assisted by freshman midfielder Lief Rudnick.

Five minutes later, Moilanen landed a penalty kick opportunity and sent the ball flying into the net. Rocori followed two minutes later with its goal in attempt to make a comeback but fell short of the Storm’s wrath.

The score remained 2-1 through the second half, though senior co-captain and goalkeeper Eli Rudnick said it took a lot of dedication.

“We realized we had to lock it down, and we picked up the intensity for the win,” Eli Rudnick said. “As a team, we did a great job of possessing the ball, making clean passes and not just always pushing up the field.”

Eli Rudnick made six saves.

The win brings the team record to 1-3-2. The Storm played Apollo Sept. 24 in St. Cloud. SRR returns to St. Cloud to take on the Tech Tigers at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29, at Tech High School.

Page 14 | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Race coming down to the wire

SPORTS

Fernholz nets

As Major League Baseball nears the end of its hectic 60-game (ir) regular season, the Minnesota Twins and Chicago White Sox are separated by a razor-thin half-game margin atop the American League Central Division standings with four COLUMNIST days left to go. With their SPORTS

BY ANDY THAYER sweep of the Detroit Tigers, the Twins moved into first place for the first time since late August.

Winning the division is incredibly important to the Twins, because a second-place finish almost assuredly means a matchup with the New York Yankees in the first round of the playoffs.

As you may have heard, the Yankees have won 13 consecutive postseason games against the Twins, and it would seemingly be preferable for the Twins to finish strong and avoid that matchup at all costs.

After Thursday’s off day, the Twins will host the streaking Cincinnati Reds for a three-game series to end the season. That will not be an easy series – the Reds have won nine of their last 11 games and are in a dogfight for a playoff spot in the National League. The Reds will need these games even more than the Twins (who have already clinched a playoff berth), and all three of these games are going to be hotly contested and have a playoff vibe. The Reds boast some tough starting pitching, and while the Twins will miss Reds staff ace Trevor Bauer, they are going to face Luis Castillo (2.86 ERA with 85 strikeouts in 66 innings) and Sonny Gray (3.73 ERA with 68 strikeouts in 50 innings) Saturday and Sunday.

The Twins have been incredible at Target Field this season, where they boast an awesome 23-5 record. They are going to need every last bit of that home field advantage as they attempt to fend off the Reds.

The White Sox have one last game with Cleveland Thursday (Dallas Keuchel versus Zach Plesac), and then they host the crosstown rival Cubs for three games over the weekend. The Cubs have a stranglehold on the National League Central Division and could end up resting some players if they get locked into the third seed in the National League playoffs. This scenario is not ideal for the Twins, although it seems unlikely the Cubs are going to roll over against their intra-city rivals even if some key players get a day or two off.

The Twins have their best starting pitchers lined up for the start of the postseason. Kenta Maeda, who has been the team’s best and most consistent pitcher this year, will start game one of the team’s best-of-three first round playoff series Tuesday. Jose Berrios will pitch Friday against Cincinnati and then game two of the playoff series Wednesday. Michael Piñeda will start against the Reds Saturday and then pitch game three of the playoff series Thursday. Manager Rocco Baldelli has put his team in a great position to succeed; now they have to go out there, win this series against the Reds, clinch a division championship and set the tone for a run deep into the playoffs.

hat trick

Girls soccer defeats Rocori 9-0

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER | STAFF WRITER

Eighth-grade forward Gabrielle Fernholz led the way to success for the Sauk Rapids-Rice girls soccer team as they hosted Rocori Sept. 17.

The Storm shut out the Spartans 9-0 on the home turf in Sauk Rapids, also earning the first Storm win of the season.

Gabrielle Fernholz’s three goals were something she set out to accomplish prior to game start. Two of her goals were 10 seconds apart in the first three minutes of play.

“It was exhilarating and unexpected to score two goals that early in the game and that close together,” Gabrielle Fernholz said. “Achieving my goal of a hat trick was satisfying too.”

Throughout the game, the Storm held the majority of possession, controlled the direction of the ball and had well-placed shots on goal.

Senior defender Keanna Guggisberg found the net two times for SRR. Accomplishments continued to eighth-grade forward Ava Plemel and eighthgrade defender Abby Feddema, who both notched their first varsity goals. Junior midfielder Chloe Reiter and sophomore midfielder Olivia Bauer rounded out the scoring and helped secure the win.

Girls soccer page 15 PHOTOS BY ANNA HINKEMEYER

Freshman forward Gabrielle Fernholz sends the ball flying into the net early in the first period of the Sept. 17 game against Rocori in Sauk Rapids. Fernholz scored a hat trick during the game.

Storm swimmers trail behind Rocori Spartans win 101-85 in dual meet

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER STAFF WRITER

The Sept. 17 meet against the Spartans at Rocori High School in Cold Spring was one of excitement and competitiveness for the Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm girls swim and dive team. Unfortunately, the success of the Storm did not add up to that of the Spartans, and SRR tallied a 101-85 loss.

Senior co-captain Abbie Tangen said the team was broken down from

having a meet two days prior as well as continued practices.

“We don’t expect great times at those meets because we are training for another meet,” Tangen said. “Swimmers can take a lesson from every swim meet, and we continue to remain strong with our young swimmers who are improving.”

Junior Valeria FloresBonilla had empowering first-place finishes in both of her individual events.

In the 100 yard butterfly,

she ended with a time of 1 minute, 4.29 seconds and had a time of 1:05.32 in the 100 backstroke. The 400 freestyle relay team of Madeline Ziegler, Haley Davis, Lydia Zabinski and Flores-Bonilla also took first with a time of 3:55.67.

“Our girls are working hard in practice day in and day out and that showed in a few of our races,” said Whitney Jendro, co-head coach. “Overall, the girls were positive and brought great energy. We will continue to practice with high intensity.”

The girls hold a 2-3 season record and host Willmar Saturday, Oct. 3, at noon at Sauk RapidsRice High School.

200 MR: 2. Flores-Bonilla, Kaytlin Bittman, Zabinski and Abbie Tangen 2:02.23; 3. Ally Lucas, Jadeyn Stover, Kendal Stucke and Vivian Tangen 2:10.71; and 4. Mia Lambrecht, Sophia Henkel, Olivia Tykwinski and Arica Moriak 2:11.89. 200 FS: 3.

Abbie Tangen 2:09.69, 4.

Lambrecht 2:14.90 and 5.

Lauren Klein 2:17.97. 200 IM: 2. Zabinski 2:26.37, 4. Bittman 2:34.98 and 5. Stucke 2:37.94. 50 FS: 3. Davis 27.19, 5. Ziegler 27.74 and 6. Stover 28.02.

1M Diving: 4. Liberty Kosloski 145.75 points, 5. Eliana Hansen 140.85 and 6.

Sophia Markfelder 101.75.

100 FLY: 1. Flores-Bonilla 1:04.29, 3. Zabinski 1:10.50 and 4. Stucke 1:12.97. 100 FS: 2. Ziegler 59.46, 3. Davis 59.91 and 5. Klein 1:02.52.

500 FS: 2. Abbie Tangen 5:50.67, 3. Lambrecht 6:04.29 and 4. Lucas 6:06.09.

200 FSR: 2. Davis, Ziegler, Klein and Abbie Tangen 1:49.68; 4. Bittman, Moriak, Tykwinski and Samantha Haaf 1:55.42 and 5. Vivian Tangen, Stucke, Maya Zaske and Ava Hitzler 1:55.71.

100 BK: 1. Flores-Bonilla 1:05.32, 4. Lucas 1:12.37 and 6. Zaske 1:17.42. 100 BR: 2. Bittman 1:20.09, 3.

Stover 1:21.64 and 4. Henkel 1:27.16. 400 FSR: 1.

Ziegler, Davis, Zabinski and Flores-Bonilla 3:55.67; 3.

Lambrecht, Stover, Hitzler and Klein 4:12.46 and 4. Zaske, Haaf, Grace Thompson and Lucas 4:20.97.

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SPORTS

Page 16 | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Three runners place in SRR takes second at home meet

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER | STAFF WRITER

Fans watching the Sept. 17 cross-country meet at Mayhew Creek Park in Sauk Rapids saw

a spectacular showing.

Three Sauk Rapids-Rice runners on the Storm boys cross-country team placed

in the top 10. Senior cocaptain Jared Bentrud took second in the race with a time of 17 minutes, 59.05 seconds and led the way to the team’s second place finish.

“Our team as a whole did very good, and we dropped our season times and competed very well placing-wise,” Bentrud

top 10

said.

Sophomore Nate Martin finished the race in sixth, and senior cocaptain Cole Gauerke placed ninth. However, head coach Sandie Lahr said the real accomplishment is having 13 Storm runners earn season-best times at the home meet.

Having the meet on the home course was helpful for pacing throughout the race due to familiarity, but the hard work and training is the ultimate factor into the team’s success.

The Storm raced against Apollo and Bemidji high schools Sept. 24 in Bemidji. SRR hosts Apollo at 4 p.m. Thursday, PHOTOS BY ANNA HINKEMEYER Oct. 1, at Mayhew Creek Sophomore Nate Martin races past three Fergus Falls competitors Park in Sauk Rapids.

Individual boys: 2.

Bentrud 17:59.05, 6. Martin 18:50.44, 9. Gauerke 19:04.40, 11. Alex Ostendorf 19:15.44, 19. Kieran Hixson 20:06.86, 22. Mason Foss 21:37.01 and 23. Andrew Jaeger 22:26.41. Boys team: 1. Rocori 28 points, 2. SRR 45

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Sept. 17 at Mayhew Creek Park in Sauk Rapids. Martin took sixth place with a time of 18 minutes, 50.44 seconds.

and 3. Fergus Falls 51.

Individual girls: 15.

Ali Kremer 27:36.40.

(Above) Senior co-captain Cole Guaerke paces himself with other runners around him Sept. 17 in Sauk Rapids.

Guaerke took ninth in 19:04.40.

(Right) Senior co-captain Ali Kremer runs toward the finish line Sept. 17 in Sauk Rapids. Kremer was the only female Sauk Rapids-Rice High School competitor and finished with a time of 27:36.40.

Leading the

Eli Rudnick

Parents: Michael and Susan Rudnick

Accomplishment: Senior co-captain of the boys soccer team.

What is your favorite part about soccer? Hanging out and being with the guys on my team after games and practices, as well as going out to eat as a team after games.

What is your favorite thing to do on the field? I like playing rondo with the guys as well as stopping shots and doing shooting drills.

How do you prepare in the minutes leading up to competition? I warm up with my coach and try to relax and listen to music.

What other activities are you involved in at school? Culinary and DECA. Why is it important for you to be involved in school activities? It gives me the opportunity to meet new people and lets me do something I enjoy every day.

How do you make a difference at school?

I encourage my peers to be a part of activities like soccer or other sports or clubs, and I try to keep a positive attitude when I am at school and in class.

Leading the Storm is

Sponsored by: Which teacher has impacted your education most? Mary Levinski. She has helped me explore a wide variety of paths I could follow with my education and involved me with activities I never would have thought to join. She also has helped me make decisions and unlock opportunities that will be good for me in the future.

Who has been a mentor to you? My dad.

He has been supportive and passionate of the activities I chose to do. He also has helped me work harder and improve my skills in soccer and in life. He has shown me that putting in the work and not giving up will come with great success.

What is your favorite meal, movie, social media and song? Chipotle burrito bowl, “Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” Instagram and “Snow” by Red Hot Chili Peppers.

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SALUTING AREA FIRE DEPARTMENTS AND THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO DEDICATE THEMSELVES TO KEEPING OUR COMMUNITIES SAFE!

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

OCT. 4-10, 2020

Kaproth’s

volunteerism a presence that cannot be put out Foley resident has served as a firefighter for 46 years

BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER

FOLEY – In 1974, Tom Kaproth was just out of high school, an 18-year-old entering technical college and working at Murphy’s Chevrolet. Despite his educational endeavors, he was looking for a way to help his community. So, when fire chief Al Lewandowski approached him about becoming a volunteer firefighter, he eagerly took the offer.

Forty-six years later, Kaproth is still answering the call for the Foley Fire Department, a service he is forever grateful for.

“I’m paying back the community for all it has done for me,” he said. “I get so passionate about doing this that words start to escape me. This is my adult life; it’s all a part of who I am.”

“You would never know the feeling you get when somebody comes up to you and says, ‘Thank you, I remember your face,’” Kaproth said. “At the worst time of their life, they remembered you, for your compassion, your care. That drives you.”

Amongst a staff of 25 volunteers, Kaproth leads by example, remaining on-call and ready to help in any emergency situation.

Foley’s fire district is wide-stretching compared to others in the state of Minnesota, reaching as far as north as Lakin Township in Morrison County and as far south as Duelm. With travel times of PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Tom Kaproth’s fire helmet sits atop his gear locker Sept. 18 at the Foley Fire Department. This state-ofthe-art equipment piece is far different than Kaproth’s original helmet, an old, strapless helmet that almost fell off his head.

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Tom Kaproth smiles as he sits inside a rescue truck Sept. 18 at the Foley Fire Department in Foley. Kaproth has volunteered for the fire department for 46 years.

up to 30 minutes, Kaproth flips a switch when the call comes in, a mindset developed through years of training and quick thinking.

“Last night, I was watching the news and when my pager went off, I was out the door,” Kaproth said. “You’re not thinking of shutting the TV off. You turn instantly into a firefighter. It’s automatic.”

The scenes Kaproth arrives to have changed over the years.

His first few years often saw him responding to haybale and chimney fires, a common reverberation of the cold weathers Minnesota experiences. However, as technology has evolved, the fire department has taken on a new identity, one capable of handling the dangerous fires and car accidents but also timely and adept at responding to sudden medical emergencies.

“At the time, it was no medicals, it was fires and car accidents,” Kaproth said. “What’s happening now is ongoing training. I just got done with my medical (training).

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Page 2F | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS

FIRE DEPARTMENT

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The 2020 Foley Fire Department includes Jay Howard (front, from left), Logan Lunde, Jay Studanski, Greg Poganski, Dakota McIver, Travis Sweno, Tyler Palm and Jerad Fleck; (back, from left) Gary Bautch, Kraig Rudolph, Jerry Linn, Todd Foreman, Mike McMillin, Lieutenant Chris Harren, Assistant Chief Larry Nadeau, Fire Chief Mark Pappenfus, Captain Rick Herbrand, Bryan Moshier, Tom Kaproth, Travis Janson and Adam Foss. Not pictured are Captain Josh Beutz, Andy Shaw and Jerrik Manthie.

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2020 | Page 3F

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FIRE PREVENTION

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2020 | Page 5F

“People need to be safe and aware of their surroundings. If something doesn’t look safe, stop and give it a thought. Be safe with what you’re doing.”

- Tom Kaproth

Kaproth from 1F

You have to have a certain number of hours of training and drills to maintain your Firefighter 1 and 2 (certifications), and we just had Hazmat class.”

This evolution has affected not just the firefighters but also the fire department. When the young Kaproth was initiated, he rushed to the scene of a fire wearing a not-so-sturdy helmet that did not have a strap. Now, the longtime responder arrives at the building to state-of-the-art equipment, including the Lucas

tool, a battery-operated device that automatically conducts CPR during a heart emergency.

“The sophistication and quality of our equipment is incredible,” Kaproth said. “I shake my head sometimes that the community of Foley has some of the best ever equipment. It’s all updated and it’s all new.”

However, a constant throughout Kaproth’s career has been his strong, communicative relationship with his fellow firefighters. Pictures of the current volunteers risking their lives for others, along with former volunteers, line one of the walls at the Foley fire station.

PHOTOS BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Tom Kaproth stands next to a fire truck Sept. 18 at the Foley Fire Department in Foley. Kaproth is the longest-serving volunteer for the department, having spent 46 years responding to emergencies.

portant educational piece.

With the fire department hosting fire prevention classes, the importance of safety looms larger than ever.

“People need to be safe and aware of their surroundings,” Kaproth said.

“If something doesn’t look safe, stop and give it a thought. Be safe with what you’re doing.”

Kaproth has re-certified himself for another two years, a sign of his ever-present ability to keep going. Just as it was 46 years ago, there is always the need for firefighters, and the sudden call to action continue to provide a thrill.

“I don’t feel like it’s been 46 years,” Kaproth said. “I stay healthy, and I still enjoy it. It makes me get up and still have great enthusiasm. When I lose this enthusiasm, that will be the day I will walk out the door, hang up my hat and be done.”

Tom Kaproth presses a button adjacent to his equipment Sept. 18 at the Foley Fire Tom Kaproth looks through old photos Sept. 18 at Engrained in the Foley Fire Department is a system built on trust.

“All of those guys on that wall you would trust with your life, because you are,” Kaproth said.

“When you go to a fire, it’s two in, two out. Those

are the guys covering your back. That’s the bond you get.”

Kaproth also holds a positive relationship with the Foley community.

The fire department participates in the Foley Fun Days Parade and the Water Ball Fight every summer, and they also hand

out pumpkins to local children.

“It’s a lot of fun,” Kaproth said. “Children are always excited to see a firefighter. It’s a great morale booster.”

It is not all fun and games, however; through Kaproth’s expansive knowledge comes an im-

Department in Foley. The light serves as an indicator of who is inside the station to help the Foley Fire Department in Foley. Kaproth’s 46 years other firefighters. as a volunteer firefighter has given him a plethora of memories, both good and bad.

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FIRE PREVENTION

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Page 8F | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS

Firetruck from page 7F

After 32 years of use, Sauk Rapids sold the truck to the city of Beltrami where the vehicle was used for another 20 years.

The truck made its way to Mel Servi Fire Truck Museum in Wisconsin and was later transferred to Michigan. In the early 2000s, Harold Jesh initiated the idea to form the Sauk Rapids Engine Company No. 2 Retired Firefighters Association with one of its goals being to find, purchase and restore the city’s first firetruck.

That goal was achieved and the truck came home in June 2007.

This year, Engine Company No. 2 is celebrating the truck’s 100th birthday, and they are proud to say the 100 years started and ended in Sauk Rapids. The truck held a great deal of sentimental value for two of the retired firefighters in the association as Earl Bukowski and Emil Kelm served on the fire department when the truck was in use.

“It was real important to us to get the truck back,” said Dennis Schlichting, an Engine Company No. 2 member. “We

are really proud of it.”

When the firetruck was located in 2000, the peeling letters of the Sauk Rapids Fire Department were still visible, though faded and covered up with Beltrami lettering. The vehicle started and ran well for its age.

Restoring the truck to its original state was important to the retired firefighters to preserve the history and show what firetrucks looked like in 1920.

Donations flooded in from the community to help fund the $40,000 restoration.

The association began the truck’s revival, which included shining the truck up with a new coat of paint, new lettering and getting the engine into the condition it is in today. The restoration was performed by Hand in Hand Restoration of Jackson, Michigan, where the truck was located.

When the truck returned to Sauk Rapids in June 2007, it made its debut at the Rapids River Days parade, turning heads and garnering applause on the entire route.

“It is an antique firetruck, and there is a lot of excitement when people see it,” Dennis said. “Having a truck like this is rare.”

In addition to the Rapids River Days parade, the truck

PHOTO BY ANNA HINKEMEYER

The retired Sauk Rapids Fire Department Engine No. 2 sits in front of the Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992 Sept.

9 in Sauk Rapids. The city’s first firetruck is 100 years old this year.

regularly participates in parades throughout central Minnesota including Rice, Sartell and Waite Park. It also makes appearances at car shows and nursing homes.

Despite not being able to celebrate the truck’s 100th birthday in parades and commu-

nity events due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Sauk Rapids Engine Company No. 2 Retired Firefighters Association remains proud of the restoration and return of the truck to its home community and hopes to return to parades and other events in 2021.

“We value the truck very much,” said Ron Schlichting, vice president of the association. “The community should be proud to have something like this, just as we are in the association.”

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