Sauk Rapids Herald - February 6

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Saturday, February 6, 2021

County board talks Sauk Rapids project

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

Vol. 166, No. 44

Impact – Difference MakerS established to benefit community Nonprofit to provide local aid

BY JAKOB KOUNKEL STAFF WRITER

Trail along County Road 1 to offer added safety

BY JAKOB KOUNKEL STAFF WRITER

FOLEY – The Benton County Board spent the majority of its Feb. 2 meeting discussing a Sauk Rapids trail project, which the city hopes will be another piece to the puzzle in connecting its trail system.

A 10-foot wide pedestrian trail is planned to run along County Road 1, also known as Mayhew Lake Road, from Osauka Drive to Golden Spike Road.

The board signaled its approval of a permit to move forward with the trail project, a necessary step for the city of Sauk Rapids because part of the project will be constructed in a county right of way. Other than that, the project is completely city-led.

“There’s been a desire for quite some time to get a trail to the high school,” said Chris Bryd, county engineer.

Commissioner Steve

ous families with gas money, groceries, Christmas presents, shoveling driveways, personal hygiene products, sports registration fees, cleaning supplies, a washer and much more. The “S” in the organization’s name is intentionally capitalized because Diskerud said it takes more than one person to make a difference.

The very beginnings of Diskerud’s brainchild began three years ago when he was looking for a way to pay it forward around Christmas time. He felt, though his childhood was not perfect, that he has lived a blessed life, and so he wanted to bless another.

He found a good prospect to start with: A person in need of a bed for their daughter. What Diskerud did next turned out to PHOTO BY JAKOB KOUNKEL be the foundation of the Impact Jessi Goerger (left), Adam Diskerud and Michelle Carlton stand next to each other in Goerger’s home in Sauk Rapids Jan. 28. Each play a – Difference MakerS business significant role in operating the Impact – Difference MakerS nonprofit model, even if he did so unknowingly. organization.

RICE – Three months ago, Sauk Rapids resident Adam Diskerud was doing what many Christians do when it comes time to give: He tithed 10% of his income to his local church, The Waters Church in Sartell.

While tithing is important, Diskerud wanted to repurpose the money he donates to have a better grip on where it is going and how exactly it is helping.

He was content with the offering and other forms of donations, but Diskerud was looking for a different avenue to fulfill a personal obligation to giving.

Then came an idea.

“It’s like being a band-aid and a resource to help (people in need) get to that next step,” Dis- tion committed to helping those kerud said, the founder of the who need immediate aid of any Impact – Difference MakerS, a sort. soon-to-be nonprofit organizaIn the two short months that

the Difference MakerS have been in operation – comprised of just a few volunteers – they have already helped numer-

Difference MakerS page 3

Legions strained by shutdowns Posts not spared from pandemic

BY TIM SPEIER | STAFF WRITER

BENTON COUNTY – At the end of World War I, morale in the United States military had declined to an all-time low as uncertainty about what lay ahead made its way through the ranks. In order to combat the loss of morale in 1919, the American Expeditionary Force formed the basis for what became known as the American Legion.

With over a century of helping service members, veterans, and their communities behind them. It would be a pandemic that would put the Legion to the test as they turned the corner on the next 100 years.

Legion page 2 PHOTO BY TIM SPEIER

The newspaper of today is the history of tomorrow.

• Sauk Rapids-Rice School Call for Bids - pg. 8 • Probate Notice - Rosenow - pg. 5B • Benton County Board of Commissioners Reg. Minutes - pg. 5B • City of Sauk Rapids Notice of Hearing on Improvement - pg. 8 • City of Rice Notice of Public Hearing on Ord. 21 - pg. 10 • City of Rice Notice of Public Hearing on Tax Abatement - pg. 8

OBITUARIES

Angie Remer, club manager for the Foley Legion Post 298, counts out pull-tabs for a customer in Foley. As with other businesses, American Legion posts have been hit hard by the pandemic and donations returned to the community could become a ripple effect.

PUBLIC NOTICES

County board page 2

Same Local Coverage Since 1854.

• Edwin J. Barthel • Charles (Chuck) Ganz • Joyce E. Lanz • Raymond J. Middendorf

NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | Page 3

Difference MakerS

What’s Happening Monday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Catholic Charities Senior Dining Frozen Meal Distribution. For people age 60 or older. No cost to participate. Meals are distributed through contactless format. First Presbyterian Church, 340 Fifth Ave. S., St. Cloud.

from front

Monday, Feb. 8, 6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids City Council Meeting. Sauk Rapids City Hall, 251 Summit Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Monday, Feb. 8, 7 p.m. – Sauk Rapids-Rice School Board Work Session. Sauk RapidsRice High School, 1835 Osauka Road N.E., Sauk Rapids.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Jessi Goerger hugs her daughter, Aubree, 6, in front of the table of donations going to a Rice family in need of groceries Jan. 20 in Rice. The donations were a culmination of community donations.

ference MakerS will post on their Facebook page the details, needs and story behind every person asking for help. Applicants remain anonymous.

They may not always be able to fill every request every time, but as the organization finds its footing, Diskerud is confident about its potential to be a saving grace.

“You always want to do more, but you just do as much as you can do until you can’t do anymore,” Diskerud said. “Everyone around you says, ‘You’re doing too much,’ but that’s the stuff that fills me.”

Diskerud’s sister, Jessica Goerger, of Rice, said participating in the Impact – Difference MakerS is fulfilling and something

that everybody can take part in, whether by donating resources, money or time. Most importantly, she said donations stay local.

“I think it’s just kind of your chemical makeup of who you are,” Goerger said. “My favorite saying is, ‘Just be better.’ Be better than yesterday. Be as good as you can be.”

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Friday, Feb. 12, 6-7:30 p.m. – Daddy Daughter Dance. Dads, uncles, grandparents and others are invited to spend an evening with their special girl. Shepherd of the Pines Lutheran Church, 1950 125th St. N.W., Rice. Free event.

Register at sotpministries.com/dance.

Saturday, Feb. 13, 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.

Sauk Rapids

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Tuesday, Feb. 9, 7 p.m. – Watab Township Meeting. Watab Town Hall, 660 75th St. N.W., Sauk Rapids.

Friday, Feb. 12, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Apply in person at 32311 County Rd. 1 • St. Cloud, MN 56303 or email Bob.Heim@HeimMilling.com

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Tuesday, Feb. 9, 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.

Friday, Feb. 12, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. – American Red Cross Blood Drive. Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 2405 Walden Way, St. Cloud. Make an appointment by calling 1-800-733-2767 or visiting redcrossblood.org.

We are a family owned, St. Cloud based, regional feed manufacturer and distributor serving a multi-state market.

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Tuesday, Feb. 9, 1-3 p.m. – Catholic Charities Senior Dining Frozen Meal Distribution. For people age 60 or older. No cost to participate.

Meals are distributed through contactless format. Catholic Charities Emergency Services, 157 Roosevelt Road, St. Cloud.

Thursday, Feb. 11, noon to 4 p.m. – 55+ First Time Driver Improvement Course. Zion Lutheran Church, 245 Central Ave. S., Milaca. Inside Fellowship Hall. Register at 1-888-234-194 or www.driverdiscountprogram.org.

Heim Milling Company is looking for hard working Production Assistants - full time - to join our team!

FEBRUARY

Tuesday, Feb. 9, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Wednesday, Feb. 10, 6-7 p.m. – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

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Diskerud took to social media. He asked his friends and family for help getting the family a bed by posting to Facebook. He was blown away by the amount of support he received.

After collecting money, he went to a furniture store and talked to the owner. Diskerud told the owner how much money he had and what he was trying to accomplish, and the store’s owner donated everything but the mattress.

“At the end of all of it, it was $1,200,” Diskerud said. “Dora (the Explorer) comforter, Dora pillow, Dora stuffed animals, Dora sheets. The whole thing came together amazingly.”

From there, Diskerud knew he had a mission to accomplish and had unearthed an effective medium to accomplish that mission. Now it was just putting everything in motion.

Diskerud said the primary objective is to help everybody in any way he can. He does not want the Difference MakerS to be a niche organization that tends to a small portion of the population; he wants it to be useful to everybody who needs it.

The Difference MakerS do not want to turn anybody away nor are they concerned with how big the ask is. All they ask is to nominate somebody in need or ask for assistance via email with a detailed explanation of what is needed and how the Difference MakerS can do just what they set out to do – make a difference.

If an applicant sends the organization an email sharing their story and what they need, the Dif-

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Page 4 | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Thompson recognized for military service Receives Quilt of Valor

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – A Sauk Rapids veteran received a comforting surprise in January.

Ernest Thompson Jr., who lives on Fifth Avenue North with his wife Helen, opened a package

that contained a red, white and blue quilt, adorned with the Statue of Liberty.

The piece is no ordinary blanket.

The handmade gift is a Quilt of Valor – a bedspread awarded to living military service members and veterans, commemorating their service and sacrifice

Thompson is a Korean War veteran.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1948 when he was 18. He served in the 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division while deployed from June 1950 to November 1951. Thompson is a two-time Purple Heart recipient.

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Thompson’s quilt was completed by Carolyn Buhlmann, a Quilt of Valor volunteer. Thompson was nominated for the piece by his grandson, Jon. “It’s an honor to get something like this,” Thompson said.

Quilts of Valor Foundation began in 2003 after founder Catherine Roberts had a dream while her son was deployed in Iraq. In the dream, she witnessed her son struggling with war only to see his demeanor change to hope as he was wrapped in a quilt. To Roberts, quilts equaled healing, and she vowed that each quilt given by the foundation would be hand- or machine-quilted with the phrase “Thank you for your service, sacrifice and valor in serving our nation.”

Thompson is a Korean War veteran. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1948 when he was 18.

He served in the 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division while deployed from June 1950 to November 1951. Thompson is a two-time Purple Heart recipient.

Through 2020, Quilts of Valor had awarded 265,841 blankets. The group has organizers in each of the nation’s 50 states.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Sauk Rapids resident Ernest Thompson Jr. and his wife, Helen, display a Quilt of Valor in their home in January. Thompson was awarded the piece for his military service and sacrifice after being nominated by his grandson, Jon.

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.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Official newspaper of Benton County, the cities of Sauk Rapids and Rice and Independent School District No. 47

Advertising: Our ad takers have no authority to bind this Letters: Letters to the editor and other opinion articles are newspaper, and only publication of an advertisement shall welcomed. Letters must be signed with first and last name and constitute final acceptance of the advertiser’s order. include address and phone number. Letters should be short and to the point (400 words or less). We reserve the right to edit lengthy Subscription Rates: Free in Sauk Rapids, Rice and Sartell P.O. letters. boxes, city routes and rural routes.

Corrections/Clarifications: The Herald strives for accuracy. If Benton, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Sherburne and Stearns counties you would like to report a factual error, please call (320) 251-1971. $50 per year Elsewhere in Minnesota - $57 • Outside Minnesota - $60 per year $5 per month for snowbirds Deadlines: The deadline for most news in the Herald is 5 p.m. Wednesday. Exceptions are obituaries which have a deadline of 10 a.m. Thursday. The deadline for advertisements in the Herald is 5 p.m. Wednesday.

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | Page 5

OBITUARIES Raymond “Ray” J. Middendorf

Mass of Christian Burial was at 11:30 a.m.

Feb. 3 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church for Raymond “Ray” J. Middendorf, age 93, who passed away Jan. 30, 2021.

The Rev. Ronald Weyrens officiated and burial will be at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery at a later date. Visitation was 9:30-11:30 a.m. prior to the service Wednesday at the church. Arrangements are entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids.

Ray was born Dec. 24, 1927, in Richmond to Joseph and Catherine (Mandernach) Middendorf.

He was united in marriage to Armella Winter in Sept.

8, 1951, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in St. Cloud. Ray proudly served our country in the United

Cloud Moose Lodge. Ray enjoyed trains, tractors, reading, watching TV, going for walks, fishing, playing cards, coffee clutch, gardening and had a love for nature. He was a generous and thoughtful man who was fun and had a great sense of humor. Ray was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather who will be missed by all who knew him.

Ray is survived by his wife of 69 years, Armella of St. Joseph; children, Pamela Petersen (Daniel Dierkhising) of Longville, Sheila (Jonathan Schuefler) Middendorf of Sartell, Cheryl Middendorf (Malcom Hollis) of Marama, Arizona, Kenneth Middendorf of Avon,

and Keith Middendorf of Sauk Rapids; son in law, Tom Weaver of Grandy, North Carolina.; 12 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Deborah Weaver; infant son, Neal; sisters, Erma Willing, MaryAnn Mackedanz, Magdalene Mehr and Hildegard Niewind; brothers, Alex, Richard, Othmar, Norbert, James and Ben. Memorials are preferred to the Poor Clares.

Obituary, guest book and video tribute available online at www. williamsdingmann.com.R-5-1B

the Mary Martha’s Guild in sewing quilts and assisting with church activities.

Joyce enjoyed board games, traveling, cooking, baking, quilting, crafting and spending time with her family. She was an excellent seamstress and made numerous wedding dresses, mascot uniforms for Sauk Rapids High School, and dresses for Indian Days in Sauk Rapids. Joyce was generous, tenacious, caring, hardworking and very family oriented. Most importantly, she was proud of her children.

Joyce is survived by her children, Jim of Sauk Rapids, Charlotte Zirbes of Monticello, Jerry (Corrine) of Sauk Rapids, Gene (Stephanie) of Sauk Rapids, and Barb (John) Kleinschmidt of

Helena, Montana; siblings, Jeanette Bischoff of St. Cloud, Everett Durant of Onamia, Jackie Giddings of Onamia, Sharon (Cy) Kroska of Avon, Gary Durant of Rogers, and Maureen (Ronnie) Meyer of Pierz; brother in law, Louie (Pat) Walker of Rice; 14 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; siblings, Eddie, Irvin, Eugene, Beverly; and infant sister, Elizabeth.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Croix Hospice and Alzheimer’s Association.

Obituary, guest book, video tribute, and service livestream available online at www.williamsdingmann. com.

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but worked many forms of construction throughout his life. From a young adult, he knew he wanted to live a simple life. He was a kind soul with a huge heart and even took in a few homeless to help out along his journey.

Chuck enjoyed working on old motorcycles Charles (Chuck) Ganz (Triumphs) and always liked collecting old things, was not a fan of Minnesota hunting Indian relics and winters. Chuck was retired exploring the Ozarks.

Chuck will be deeply missed by his brothers and sisters Keith Ganz, Val Gronau (Allen), Tom Ganz (Joann), Cyndi Dropps, Patty Peitso (Mark), Larry Ganz, Lynn Kardell (Doug), Amy Ramey (Lamonte); brother-inlaw Dave Thompson; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Mark and sister Ande.

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Raymond “Ray” J. Middendorf

States Army in the 11th Airborne Division from 1950-52. He has lived in the St. Cloud area all of his life and worked 27 years at the VA Hospital as a nursing assistant. Ray had a strong faith and was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church and Catholic Aid. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus in Sauk Rapids, American Legion Post 428 “Our Country is in Mourning, A Soldier Died Today.” in Waite Park, St. Cloud Eagles Club 622 and St.

Joyce E. Lanz

Memorial services were 11 a.m. Feb. 4 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sauk Rapids for Joyce E. Lanz, age 93, who passed away Jan. 31, 2021, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Home in Sauk Rapids. The Rev. David Hinz officiated and burial will be at a later date at the church cemetery.

Visitation was one hour prior to the service at the church Thursday.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids.

Joyce was born Feb. 27, 1927, to Edwin and Dorothy (Zimmerman) Durant in St. Cloud. She grew up in Waite Park and lived all of her life in the St. Cloud area. Joyce married James Lanz May 4, 1946,

at Redeemer Lutheran Church in St. Cloud. She was a homemaker until her husband passed away in 1968. She then went to school to obtain her GED and certification as a licensed practical nurse in 1973. Joyce worked 27 years at the St. Cloud Hospital. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Sauk Rapids, and was also a member of

Edwin J. “Ed” Barthel

and belonged to several area card clubs. On his hobby farm, he maintained a large vegetable garden and raised cattle and egglaying hens, generously sharing the harvests with family and many others, including those in need.

Ed was a kind man who frequently put the needs of others ahead of his own. He also made people laugh with his amazingly quick wit and great sense of humor, even in his last days.

Ed is survived by sisters and brothers Anita (Harold) Rooney of Sauk Rapids, Alvin (Carol) Barthel of Little Falls, Jerry (Elizabeth) Barthel and Vernon (Elizabeth) Barthel of Sauk Rapids, Judy (Mike) Rolfzen of Albany, and Leon (Wendi) Barthel of Sauk Rapids, as well as 16 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James (1968); and niece, Joy Rooney (1987).

Ed’s family would like to thank the staff at Country Manor, Coborn Cancer Center, and St. Croix Hospice, who were truly attentive to Ed’s needs – most notably Kim, his “angel-and-a-half.”

Obituary, guest book, and video tribute will be available online at www. foleyfuneralhome.net. R-5-1B

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Charles (Chuck) Ganz, 61, of Omaha, Arkansas, formerly of Rice, passed away Jan. 7, 2021.

A celebration of life will be planned for early summer.

Chuck was born Aug. 25, 1959, to Harlan and Rosemary Ganz.

He lived in New Mexico and Texas before settling in Arkansas. He

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Due to concerns related to COVID-19, a private Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, Feb. 11 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids for Edwin J. “Ed” Barthel, 75, of Sauk Rapids, who died Jan. 29, 2021, at Country Manor Campus in Sartell after a 17-month battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. The Rev. Tom Knoblach will officiate.

Interment of the urn will be in the parish cemetery at a later date. The funeral Mass will be streamed by Sacred Heart Parish and available for viewing, both during and after the Mass, on their YouTube channel and website at www. sacredheartsaukrapids. org/livestream.

Those wishing to watch it live may contact the family for time specifics. An outdoor celebration of Ed’s life is being considered for a later date.

Ed was born Aug. 8, 1945, in St. Cloud to Clarence and Elfrieda (Sis) Barthel. He was a 1963 graduate of Sauk Rapids High School and served in the U.S. Navy from 196365. Outside of his Navy service and final months at Country Manor, Ed lived in Sauk Rapids his entire life and was employed by the U.S. Postal Service for 41 years, retiring in 2009. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids.

Cherished by those around him, Ed enjoyed spending free time with his siblings and their families, as well as his many friends. He especially loved fishing and card playing, notably cribbage,

“Our Country is in Mourning, A Soldier Died Today.”

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Page 6 | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Reliable gardening information Where do gardeners go to find reliable information?

First choice is any website with “.edu” at the end of the address. This suffix is used by universities whose articles are based on scientific research. The University of MinneGREEN AND sota Extension has a GROWING IN BENTON COUNTY large database of inBY LINDA G. TENNESON formation for gardeners. Neighboring state universities with similar weather or which are in the same United States Department of Agriculture growing zone are also good resources for outdoor gardening. Any university website would be a good source for indoor gardening.

The University of Minnesota Extension office for Benton and Stearns counties may be reached at 320-255-6169, Ext. 1. Questions may also be recorded on the answering machine system, and an Extension Master Gardener will research your question and provide information by a return call. The UMN Extension website has many useful pages for all gardening areas.

Trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, fruits, vegetables, native plants, lawn care, landscape design and managing the soil are all covered in detail. There is an “Ask a Master Gardener” page where questions may be left for an answer.

Go to extension.umn.edu/master-gardener/askmaster-gardener or call 612-301-7590. There are also pages for identifying plants and insects, including diagnosing problems and diseases.

The pages “What’s wrong with my plant,” and “What insect is this?” are particularly useful. In addition, there are details about how to become an Extension Master Gardener or Master Naturalist. The “Yard and Garden Newsletter” is published each month with information appropriate to the season.

Gardeners are also encouraged to do their own experiments with plants they are curious about and to expand their knowledge by attending local educational events held by Extension Master Gardeners. Benton, Stearns and neighboring counties are hosting education sessions this spring using the Zoom internet program to provide research-based gardening information to anyone who signs up for them. Benton County will have an online session titled “Noxious and Invasive Plants” given by Mari Harder and Monika Chandler from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture April 15. Registration for this event should open in March. The Stearns County Extension Master Gardeners are hosting a weeklong symposium March 1-5 with online sessions given twice each day at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and a different subject presented each day.

Go to z.umn.edu/springsymposium to sign up for this event. They are also hosting an online event, “Gardening from the Ground Up,” as a webinar series from 1-2:30 p.m. each day Feb. 16-19. Go to z.umn.edu/gardenup to sign up for this event or call Katie Drewitz at 507-951-6609 or email wins0115@umn.edu for additional information. Attendees are not required to sign-in to all sessions and may choose to attend those they are most interested in.

Neighboring counties may be holding similar events on various subjects. Many books, websites and commercial nurseries may provide good gardening information. Comparing the details about a plant with the same information published by a research-based source will reveal whether those sources are reliable. Check the education or qualifications listed for the authors of the articles and books as well.

Linda G. Tenneson is a UMN Extension Master Gardener and Tree Care Advisor.

EDITORIAL

It can be taught, but it must be caught What is this sense I’m feeling right got you.” The elder at home alone needs now? You may not know what it is exactly, this. God said, “Yes, and I got you.” The but everyone is feeling it. young girl, if she only had this. God said, Some think, “I must be hungry,” and “Yes, and I got you.” I’ve been taught this they run to the fridge. Others think, “I’m before, but once I caught it, I haven’t been going to call my buddy for a drink.” There able to stop participating and sharing this are those who feel it and force it into, “I’m news with others. going to tie myself to a political party and What steps of faith is God asking you cling to it.” And, a few people think, “There to take? You see the need and you feel the is a need for (fill in the blank) at our church, stir. Don’t present this need to your pastor LIFE BY FAITH I’m going to tell the staff and see if they can and ask him to do it. Do present the stir

BY MERCY NYGAARD and ask him to pray for you. Ask others to provide it.”

Universally, in every person right now, pray with you. God put the need on your there is a hunger of a different kind. This hunger is heart. If you feel you do not have the time or energy, a stir, and it is described in Acts 2 when Peter an- that is exactly how you are supposed to feel. It will nounces the prophesy from Joel that God is pouring make you pray. That anxiousness you feel, that influout his spirit on all flesh in the last days. ence you don’t think you have, that doubt that surfacThat sense you are feeling is the Holy Spirit re- es up, it’s all supposed to bring you to him in prayer. minding you of nothing more than God calling you to Trust me, feelings led you to love your spouse or him, to sit at Jesus’ feet and pray, repent, call on the parent your child. Feelings led you to a small group name of the Lord and be saved. After this moment Bible study or to be a friend to someone lonely. These of submission and salvation, God will clarify the stir actions are not to make you feel awesome or that you in your heart that will encourage others to live for have the skillset from all the amazing empowerment God’s glory as we are watching and ready for Jesus seminars you’ve been equipping yourself with. It’s to to return. help you realize your total dependence on God. He is We are not of this world, but we have been sent the one calling you, and he’s the one who will equip into it to be sanctified in the truth (John 17:15-26). you. And like me, who feels they have too much on Jesus prayed for us and not for us alone, but for their plate, too little time, too little knowledge, too those who will believe in him through our word in little strength; God makes it so evident that his Holy whom we spend time with gaining trust, and we dis- Spirit is the one working through you. play that we are followers of Jesus by how we love Realizing this has made it easier to ask the Lord one another. where can I serve him. Thinking eternally makes About that stir in your heart, I have fell into this what others think of your little credentials and your trap time and time again until someone helped me un- seemingly foolish actions less important. Let us be derstand the clarity in which I saw a need. The yearn- faithful to pray and be faithful in what the Lord has ing in my soul was something God was calling me to entrusted to us, and God will be free to do his work do and not for me to present to someone else to have through us. We can blow the world’s mind out of the them do it for me. water with how we love one another before Jesus reMy husband needs this. God said, “Yes, and I got turns. Did you catch it? you.” My children need this. God said, “Yes, and I

January weather, phenology in review Weather: Cloudy, foggy, drizzle or ence. The most precipitation, 2.75 inches, snow almost every morning. The sun came was recorded in 1897 while the most snow out in the afternoon on a few days. Dense fell in 1975, 29.9 inches. fog from Jan. 2-9.

A not so good record, the most fataliThis was a warm, dry month. The ties from a winter storm statewide was 200 coldest day and only day that dipped bein 1888. That storm must have surprised low zero was Jan. 22 when I recorded 4 everyone. No storm-tracker radar then. degrees below. The warmest was Jan. 13 Phenology: It’s been a blue jay month; with a 42-degree reading. It sure was diflots and lots of them. The pileated woodferent than last year. Low and high aver- FROM THE NORTH pecker has been here more often working ages in 2020 were 8.87 and 24.9 degrees SHORE OF LITTLE on suet. Mostly all the same winter birds compared to this year’s 14.6 and 26.5 except for a new pair of Eurasian ColROCK LAKE

BY JIM HOVDA degrees. Last year, we had 10 days with lared-doves. They are a little larger than below zero temperatures. Temps this year mourning doves. They have a distinctive were a walk in the park and easy on the heating bills. black stripe or collar around their neck. They like the Precipitation occurred on only five days with the cracked corn. Zero wild turkeys. I have seen some most Jan. 15 – a combination of mist, light rain and near Rice. One sighting of a flying squirrel. One owl snow that totaled .36 inch of water. The most snow hooting in the woods. fell Jan. 24 when I measured 1.5 inches. Total precipLittle Rock Lake: Little Rock Creek, which is itation for the month is .74, this year’s total. Annual not quite Little Rock Lake, was open nearly all month precipitation is measured January through December. until Jan. 20. Then, we finally got some sustaining I recorded 2.9 inches of snow this month. Last Janu- cold weather. According to Vince Goering, fishing ary, we had 14.6 inches, and for the year, 36.1 inches. has been slow, and the ice averages between 14-16 Total snow this season is 17.9 inches. What a differ- inches. On Jan. 31, I counted about 50 fish houses on ence a year makes. the lake with some small trucks, four-wheelers and Local weather records: January can be brutal. A snowmobiles. With the coronavirus pandemic ongo50 degree below zero temperature in 1885. Then, in ing, it was a dull month.

1981, it made it to 56 degrees. A 106-degree differ-

Political letters to the editor policy

– Political letters endorsing or opposing a candidate, ballot measure or political party are subject to charges. Star Publications will charge a flat fee of $25 for 250-word or less letters. Display advertising rates will apply to letters exceeding the word limit. Payment must be received prior to copy deadline.

– Paid political letters to the editor will be clearly marked and set apart from those which are not.

– Readers will be allowed to submit one political letter every 14 days.

– All letters to the editor (political or not) require first and last names, addresses and phone numbers. Names and city of residency will be published in the newspaper along with the letter copy.

– The final time and date to submit a political letter to the editor for township elections is 5 p.m. Feb. 17.

E-mail to natasha@saukherald.com

EDITORIAL/NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | Page 7

A too-soon goodbye I have put off writing about this beI didn’t want to talk but sent me funny cause when you put words on paper, they memes and “I’m thinking of you,” “I love become real. I don’t want this to be real. you” and “I’m always here to listen” texts.

On Nov. 16, 2020, one of my close She was the friend who would sneak friends died. Sweet, witty, kind and altruisPreparation H and other personal items in tic, she was only 27. my cart at Target and laugh at the look on Tiffany had just graduated with a demy face as I scrambled to remove them gree in occupational therapy and had alfrom the checkout conveyer. ready touched lives during her internship.

She was the friend who loved animals She had a husband who loved her, pets so much that, in a matter of an hour, she who adored her and a mom who was also EXPRESSIONS BY EL managed to tame wild barn cats at my dad’s her best friend. Complications of a case of BY ELLARRY PRENTICE farm. From that day on, every time I opened severe pancreatitis ended all of it decades the door, a gang of little meowers tried to too soon. get inside the house.

Two and a half months earlier, Tiff was rushed to And, she was the friend who carried your burdens the emergency room with severe abdominal pain. A di- and hurt because you hurt. When I told her the story of agnosis of gall stones and pancreatitis eventually led to my dad’s final minutes of life, I’d somehow been strong abdominal compartment syndrome, a rare and often fatal enough not to cry. But she did. illness that causes organ dysfunction.

After graduating from the mass communications For days, I couldn’t believe she was gone because program at St. Cloud State, Tiff continued to work for I couldn’t believe that a mother’s heart could be ripped newspapers – including as special projects editor for the out twice in 15 months.

Albert Lea Tribune – and for the Humane Society and In August 2019, Tiff’s sister, Kayla, died of alcohol- other animal centers until her heart called her to help ism at age 30. They played Bette Midler’s “The Rose” at people with fellow health challenges. Instead of sucKayla’s funeral, and I had since associated the song with cumbing to a yearslong battle with fibromyalgia and an her untimely death, which Tiff had feared for years. With endocrine disorder, she went back to college and turned both sisters gone, I couldn’t help but relate the lyrics to her pain to purpose by helping people with injury and loss. It is a razor that leaves your soul to bleed. illness participate in daily life to the fullest.

I got to know Tiff when she was an aspiring journalI miss her so much. ist. She made her newspaper debut at age 13, writing a This past year, I was excited when Tiff told me she regular column for the Paynesville Press. Teen Perspec- wanted to use her journalism skills to achieve a little tive chronicled her journey through middle school and dream we had – producing a podcast through which offered insight on issues from bullying to self-esteem. we’d interview people who took the sourest lemons life At 16, she came on board as an editorial intern. For two has to offer and turned them into something resembling and a half summers, I had the privilege of mentoring her lemonade. as she wrote articles, photographed events, entertained Eventually, I wrote up a development plan with a list everyone with memes and one-liners, and pretended to of prospective interviewees; some we’d written about make out with her pencil when the man I later married before, some we hadn’t. Tiff asked me to include her called me at work. mom on that list because she could talk about the pain Our friendship continued after she left her post at of losing a daughter. After Tiff’s death, the memory sent our hometown paper. She faced many hardships in her me reeling, and I have avoided the document entirely. personal life, and I always worried about her – until she I told myself I didn’t want to do the podcast without met Andrew, a fellow editor for the St. Cloud State Uni- Tiff, but a little voice inside me has been saying to do it versity Chronicle. Their shared bylines became shared for her. I know she would want me to. She would want vows, and I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face at their me to do what she did so well – to take all the broken ceremony. pieces of my life and use them for good, and to help othAndrew saved Tiff in every way a person can be ers do the same by sharing their stories. saved.

This winter, as I grieve her loss, I will remember Tiff was one of the people who saved me. those song lyrics.

She was the friend who welcomed me to her fam“Far beneath the bitter snow, lies the seed that with ily’s home on Thanksgiving and loved me like a sister. the sun’s love, in the spring, becomes the rose.”

She was the friend who respected that sometimes Soon, it’s my turn to make lemonade.

Pulse on People

Benton County marriage applications

Brannen, Kayla Brenny, Caden Collins, Isaiah Hall, – Luke James Johnson and Kennedy Jean Fruth, Avery Johnson, Annastasia Lentner, Colin O’Leary, Sidney Simmons, Autum Starry and Cole Wunboth of Sauk Rapids. derlich as well as Sauk Rapids residents Alec Anderson, Libby Asper, Jadyn Athmann, Haeli Bell, CaitStudents earn degrees FARGO, N.D. – Sauk Rapids residents Clayton lin Berger, Cole Bonovsky, RaeAnn Boos, Shauna Lewandowski and Aaron Peckskamp graduated with Corrigan, Tatum Decker, Joy Fastenau, Fred Feldhonors and received bachelor’s degrees from North Da- hege, Carleen Keske, Ellie LeBlanc, Reid Lunser, kota State University following fall semester 2020. Le- Makayla Mayers, Rachel Neumann, Natasha Newell, wandowski earned a degree in biological sciences, and Randall Nolan, Samantha Patton, Brooke Petermeier, Drake Raduns-Parsley, Chelsea Scapanski, Anna Peckskamp earned a nursing degree.

Schave, Emily Schimnich, Heidi Schimnich, Linnea Sowden, Magdalene Stamm, Morgan Strandberg, Students earn academic honors Keara Thornton, Abigail Trefla, Nathan Valek, TamDULUTH – Rice residents Amanda Kollodge and my Wahl, Candace Wasner and Mitchell Wruck were Alyssa Psyck as well as Sauk Rapids residents Hailee named to the fall 2020 president’s list at St. Cloud TechAlbers, Brooklyn Brown, Andrea Decker, Emma nical and Community College for achieving a 4.0 GPA. Johnsen, Gavin Kreutzer, Eric Nieters, Emma PleRice residents Emma Beauchamp, Dylan Bengtmel, Jackie Rasmussen, Bradley Reuter and Andrea son, Cassandra Dehon, Alex Fiedler, Dylan GrimsThyen were named to the fall 2020 University of Min- ley, Randy Johnson, Brooke Nelson, Jenalyn nesota-Duluth dean’s list for achieving a GPA of 3.5 or Ostendorf, Lily Prince, Nikki Sawyer, Emily Schgreater. reindl, Victoria Smith, Joshua Virnig, Kira Weber, IOWA CITY, IOWA – Sartell resident Megan Madilynn Westberg and Breanna Westby as well as Mechelke was named to the fall 2020 University of Sauk Rapids residents Nicole Ash, Emily Boyer, KaiIowa president’s list for achieving a 4.0 GPA. tlynn Christen, Savannah Dyer, Michael FoseST. PAUL – Sauk Rapids resident Katie Dusek was id, Rosemary Gallagher, Marissa Genty, Kali Gumnamed to the fall 2020 University of St. Thomas dean’s mert, Trygve Hanson, Ian Hayes, Adam Iburg, Adam list for achieving a GPA of 3.5 or greater.

Kawlewski, Jaden Lamb, Richard Majeski, Tara VALLEY CITY, N.D. – St. Cloud resident Jacob Martin, Mariah Mattson, Tyson Mushatt, MaKnapek, a 2019 Sauk Rapids-Rice High School gradu- ria Nathe, Lydia Nygaard, Ashley Olson, Grace ate, was named to the fall 2020 president’s list at Valley Piechowski, Clarisa Raya Ambriz, Casey RenterCity State University for achieving a 4.0 GPA. Thomas, Kristin Reynolds, Tyler Schave, Joshua WAHPETON, N.D. – Sauk Rapids resident An- See, Katelyn Storms, Kristin Van Lith, Arianna drew Asp was named to the fall 2020 president’s honor Vasilj and Krystene Wiese were named to the fall 2020 list at North Dakota State College of Science for achiev- dean’s list at SCTCC for achieving a 3.5-3.9 GPA. ing a GPA of 3.5 or greater.

ST. CLOUD – Rice residents Stacy Alf, McKenna

News Briefs

COVID-19 vaccination map launches

ST. PAUL – The state launched an online vaccine finder to better connect Minnesotans age 65 or older to vaccination opportunities in their area. The map with local providers giving vaccinations can be found at mn.gov/covid19/vaccine/find-vaccine.

While the locator currently provides information for seniors, it will expand over time as more Minnesotans become eligible for the vaccine.

Masks required on public transportation

ST. CLOUD – A new federal mandate and accompanying directives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Transportation Security Administration make failure to wear a cloth or fabric mask on a bus or in a facility for public transportation a violation of federal law.

The TSA issued a memorandum and security directive Jan. 31 to clarify and implement the Jan. 21 federal executive order on promoting measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by travelers within the United States. The directive applies to passenger railroads, intercity bus services and public transportation.

Regarding wearing masks on public transportation, the directive states, “A properly worn mask completely covers the nose and mouth of the wearer. A mask should be secured to the head, including with ties or ear loops. A mask should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face. Masks do not include face shields. Masks can be either manufactured or homemade and should be a solid piece of material without slits, exhalation valves or punctures.”

The CDC mandate includes three exceptions to the masking mandate: children under the age of 2, people with disabilities who cannot wear a mask or cannot safely wear a mask, because of the disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, and people for whom wearing a mask would create a risk to workplace health, safety or job duty as determined by the relevant workplace safety guidelines or federal regulations. Passengers must stipulate people qualify for one of these exceptions if they are not wearing a mask.

Masks are available to the public at the Metro Bus Transit Center as well as on all Dial-a-Ride and ConneX buses.

Rice co-op to receive broadband grant

ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will award grants totaling $20,645,425 to 39 projects in the sixth year of the Border-to-Border Broadband Development Grant program.

The funding, which was approved during the 2019 legislative sessions, goes to broadband providers to build out infrastructure to unserved and underserved locations across the state.

Benton Cooperative Telephone Company will receive $338,011 for its Ramey Phase 2 Project.

This last mile project will serve 119 unserved locations in the Ramey telephone exchange located in portions of Lakin and Mount Morris townships in Morrison County and a small portion of Dailey and Page townships located in Mille Lacs County.

Through a funding partnership with the state of Minnesota, Benton Cooperative Telephone Company will bring service of 250 Mbps download and 250 Mbps upload to homes, businesses and farms in the project area, exceeding the 2022 and 2026 state speed goals.

Benton Cooperative Telephone Company, which is based in Rice, will provide $627,735 in match funds for a total project cost of $965,746.

Manea’s Meats We thank you for your business!

The Sausage Th S Specialists S i li t www.maneasmeats.com

(320) 253-8683 114 2nd Ave N., Sauk Rapids, MN

We are here because of you!

Think of us when grilling this Summer!

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NEWS

Page 8 | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Public Notices

SECTION 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 47 SAUK RAPIDS-RICE PUBLIC SCHOOLS CALL FOR BIDS 2021 ROOF REHABILITATION Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received for the 2021 ROOF REHABILITATION by Independent School District 47, hereinafter called the Owner, at the District Office Second Floor Door 2 located at 1833 Osauka Road NE, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota 56379 until 10:00 a.m., local time on Thursday, February 18, 2021, at which time and place bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.

In general, the work consists of the removal of the existing roof systems and associated materials on approximately 42,000 ft^2 of the facility and installation of new roofing systems as specified. Additionally, removal and installation of approximately 150 ft of through wall flashing is included with the project. It is the Owner’s intent to award the project to one Contractor. The Responsible Contractor that provides the lowest responsive Base Bid is required to provide one roofing crew working within the District, fully equipped and staged, consisting of 8 to 10 laborers until completion of the Contract or as directed by the Owner’s Representative.

Bidding Documents have been prepared by ZMD Engineered Solutions, LLC (ZMD), 28 – 2nd Street NW, Suite #100, Osseo, MN 55369 (telephone: 763-515-8733) and will be available on Monday, February 1, 2021, at 12:00 p.m. To order documents and view project information such as Drawings, Specification, updated plan holder list, addenda and bid results, visit the Franz Reprographics web site at www.franzrepro.com and select the Franz Public Plan Room. Please login with your email address and password, or Register if this is your first time in the Plan Room. Select the project from the list of public projects. Once you have selected the project, please review the Bid Package Information for ordering documents. To receive Electronic Downloads, Bid Addenda and Shipped Order Confirmations for this project, you must make the following email address a Safe Sender in your Outlook Email: info@ipdservices.com These notifications are sent from this email address, not from the email address of ZMD Engineered Solutions, LLC or Franz Reprographics. If you do not do this, your email server may block the receipt of these notifications. To make an email address a Safe Sender, please do the following: With the Inbox of Microsoft Outlook open, select the Actions drop-down menu across the top of the Outlook screen. Then select Junk E-mail, and then select Junk E-mail Options. Next select the Safe Senders tab and then select the Add button. You can then type in: info@ipdservices. com and click OK. There is a ? (help) button in the upper right hand corner you can select for assistance with using the Online Plan Room. If you still have problems, please contact Franz Reprographics by phone at 763-503-3401.

Documents may also be reviewed at ZMD, Dodge Data and Analytics, Reed Construction Data Plan Room and the Minnesota Builders Exchange.

On Tuesday, February 9, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., a pre-bid conference will be held at 1306 10th Street North, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379. Attendees shall meet in the front entrance of the bus garage All interested bidders (Prime Contractors and Sub-Contractors) must submit with their bid the “Contractor Responsibility Affidavit and Acknowledgement Form” as provided in the Bid Documents verifying compliance to Minnesota Statute 16C.285, Subd. 3.

A Bid Bond or Certified Check for 5% of the maximum bid payable to Independent School District 47 is required as a guarantee that if the bid is accepted, the Bidder will execute and file the proposed contract and provide 100% Performance and Payment Bonds within ten (10) days after the award of the Contract. The Certified Check will be returned to the Bidder as soon as the Contract and Bonds are executed. If, after ten (10) days, the Bidder shall fail to execute said Contract and Bonds, the Certified Check or Bid Bond shall be forfeited to Independent School District 47, as liquidated damages.

The Owner reserves the right to waive irregularities and to reject any and all bids.

No bid may be withdrawn for a period of Sixty (60) days after the date set for the opening thereof.

At the Owner’s discretion, liquidated damages in the amount of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) per calendar day will be assessed against the Contract if the project is not completed on the dates indicated.

This Advertisement for Bids is issued by the authority of Independent School District 47.

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Notice of Hearing on Improvement

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Notice is hereby given that the city council of Sauk Rapids will meet in the council chambers of the city hall at 6:10 p.m. on February 22, 2021, to consider the making of the 2021 Overlay Improvements, an improvement on 4th Avenue North from 18th Street North to County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 29 by Full Depth Reclamation and Overlay of the Streets pursuant to Minn. Stat. §§ 429.011 to 429.111. The area proposed to be assessed for such improvement is property along 4th Avenue North from 18th Street North to County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 29. The estimated cost of the improvement is $367,000. A reasonable estimate of the impact of the assessment will be available at the hearing. Such persons as desire to be heard with reference to the proposed improvement will be heard at this meeting.

Ross Olson City Administrator Published in Sauk Rapids Herald on February 6, and February 13, 2021.

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Police Activity Report Jan. 25-31 Sauk Rapids Police Department Jan. 28, 7:56 p.m. – Officer observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. Radar confirmed the vehicle at 47 mph in a 30 mph zone. A traffic stop was initiated, and the driver was identified by a Minnesota license. Driver was verbally warned for speed.

reports 12, disturbances 7, welfare checks 7, driving 6, permits 6, warnings 6, DUI/DWIs 5, thefts 5, vehicles 5, alarms 4, civil complaints 4, child calls 4, fraud reports 4, human services reports 4, lift assists 4, predatory offender registration checks 4, traffic hazards 4, animal calls 3, property calls 3, warrants 3, criminal damage to property calls 2, domestics 2 and permits 2.

Jan. 28, 10:26 p.m. – Officers responded to a call of a squirrel or rat inside of a rental property. On scene, Rice Police Department officers explained that the tenant should speak with their landlord, as there was little first responders Jan. 30, 7:25 p.m. – When on patrol near Sixth could do to assist in pest removal. Caller said they Avenue Southwest, an officer noticed a flashlight understood. shining into the trees near the compost site. The officer drove to make contact, saw two people and Jan. 31, 9:22 a.m. – A caller said a male was walk- announced himself as the Rice Police Department. ing through her yard on the 100 block of Third Av- The people responded they were coyote hunting and enue North. Officers checked the area and did not tracking a wounded coyote. Officer shined the flashlocate anyone. Officers explained to the person that light toward the people and saw they were wearing while concerning, the male may have mistaken the snow camouflage and that one person was carrying path shoveled in the yard as a walkway. Caller was a rifle. Dispatched radioed for assistance on a county encouraged to keep doors locked and contact police call. Officer left the scene to assist. if the male returns to her property.

Incidents: Miscellaneous calls 7, records checks 6 , Incidents: Administrative citations (winter parking traffic stops 6, assists 3, suspicious activity reports violations) 29, miscellaneous calls 23, traffic stops 3 and thefts 2.

21, assists 17, medical calls 14, suspicious activity

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o w f Community Education Corner J “ Building Your Vision: Taking Your PhotogIf you have taken the eight-hour Defensive Drivraphy from Good to Great ing Course, now you can renew your insurance discounto Are you a photographer who wants to take your im- with this refresher course. No driving or test required.g ages to the next level or perhaps someone new to the art? Online Zoom course; stop by the Community Educationg Do you want to be a photographer who takes pictures office to pick up needed materials before class. A Zoom or creates images? Leave this class with ideas and con- link will be sent prior to the course. You will receive at cepts that can be put into practice immediately. The class certificate in the mail to provide your insurance com-c l will cover compositional basics and discuss concepts of pany. building photographic vision. A Zoom link will be sent Friday, Feb. 12, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Pick upt prior to the class. materials at Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School, 901 Thursday, Feb. 11, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

First St. S., Sauk Rapids.

To register or for more information on programs and 55+ Defensive Driving Four-Hour Refresher costs, contact Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Education Course at www.isd47.org/ce or 320-258-1577.

Crime & Public Safety

Two teens injured in Highway 10 crash ST. CLOUD – Two teenagers were injured Jan. 30 when a vehicle pulled out in front of them on Highway 10 near Rice.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, Nyah Wolf, 17, of St. Stephen, and passenger Ethan Mayes, 16, of Royalton, were westbound on Highway 10 near Hemlock Road Northwest in Watab Township around 9 p.m. A vehicle driven by William Holthaus, 34, of Rice, entered the highway after being stopped at the intersection, pulling out in front of Wolf’s vehicle.

Wolf and Mayes were transported to the St. Cloud hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

Holthaus and his passenger, Amy Landree, 30, of Rice, were not injured.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Rice Fire Department and Mayo Clinic Ambulance assisted at the scene.

Information sought in attempted burglary SAUK RAPIDS – The Sauk Rapid Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man who attempted to enter a home.

According to Sauk Rapids Police Chief Perry Beise, law enforcement was called at 6:10 a.m.

Feb. 2 to a home on the 1200 block of 10th Avenue North, Sauk Rapids, to investigate an incident that occurred at about 1 a.m. The homeowner head loud noises at 1 a.m. and checked home surveillance cameras. Video shows an adult male forcefully kicking the front door. The door was damaged and a vehicle was entered and property dispersed, the report said.

The suspect is an adult Black male, wearing a black hoodie, black pants and a cap with a bill. If any person has information or recognizes the suspect, contact the Sauk Rapids Police Department at 320-251-9451.

Public Notices CITY OF RICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT FOR THE PERFORMANCE FOOD GROUP PROJECT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Rice, Minnesota, will hold a public hearing at a meeting of the Council beginning at 6:00 p.m., on Monday, March 1, 2021, to be held at the Rice City Hall, 205 Main Street E, Rice, MN 56367 (the “City”), to have the City consider granting an abatement of property taxes under Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.1812 through 469.1815, as amended (the “Abatement Act”) on a portion of the property taxes to be levied by the City on property located at 625 and 725 Division Street N in the City consisting of the parcel identified as PID# 15.00323.00 in the City (the “Property”), in connection with a two phase project consisting of the acquisition, construction, and equipping of an expansion to and renovation of an existing manufacturing facility located on the Property (the “Project”) to be owned and operated by Performance Food Group, Inc. dba Northland Cheese, or an affiliate thereof or entity related thereto (the “Developer”). The total amount of

the taxes proposed to be abated by the City on the Property for up to a 15 year period is estimated to be not more than $200,000.

Following the public hearing, the City Council will consider a resolution granting an abatement of a portion of the City’s share of property taxes on the Property for a period of up to 15 years. The abatement is a business subsidy under Minnesota Statutes, Sections 116J.993 to 116J.995, as amended (the “Business Subsidy Act”) which will help the Developer pay for a portion of the costs of the Project. A summary of the terms of the proposed business subsidy is available for inspection at City Hall during regular business hours.

Any person with a residence in the City or who is the owner of taxable property in the City may file a written complaint with the City if the City fails to comply with the Business Subsidy Act. No action may be filed against the City for the failure to comply unless a written complaint is filed.

Any person wishing to express an opinion on the matters to be considered at the public hearing may appear and present their views orally or in writing. Anyone needing reasonable accommodations or an interpreter should contact the City Clerk’s office at City Hall, (320) 393-3180.

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SPORTS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | Page 9

Fast start not enough for Storm in home loss SRR girls squad outmaneuvered

by Sabres

SRR is focused on clinging onto momentum while putting together a complete, 36-minute performance.

“Momentum and confidence all go together handin-hand,” Coach Roesch said. “When things are going well, you’re doing good things and you have to maintain those stretches.”

The Storm hosted the Willmar Cardinals Feb. 4. They will seek to better themselves as they go toe-to-toe with the Rocori Spartans at 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 9, at Rocori High School in Cold Spring.

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

In the first few possessions of the Sauk RapidsRice girls basketball team’s game against the Sartell Sabres, it seemed like smooth sailing was ahead on their quest to begin the shortened season 4-1.

Instead, the Sabres buckled down and exposed SRR’s offensive woes, clearing the way for a 5739 victory Feb. 2 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids.

“We need to get more of an identity on what we want to do, both on offense and defense,” said Jon Roesch, head coach.

“We have to hold ourselves accountable and hold each other accountable for what goes well and what doesn’t go well.”

The Storm jumped out to a 9-2 lead behind a decisive offensive effort followed by stout defense on the other end. However, as the minutes waned and

PHOTOS BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Kyanah Evans tries to throw the basketball to a teammate as Sartell defenders close in Feb. 2 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Evans and the Storm put up just 39 points against an aggressive Sabres bunch.

Sartell began to respond, it became more difficult for SRR to finish on their opportunities. Hesitance and slow play recognition led to less looks.

“We had 38 shot attempts on the night, and in other games, we’ve been up in the 60s,” Coach Roesch said. “That hurt us. Our shooters have to look to get quality shots within the rhythm of our offense.”

Senior Adyson

Froiland was a bright spot on an inconsistent night, registering 10 points to go with four rebounds and four steals, while Mia Rogholt was a stout interior force with eight points and a pair of blocks.

In a low-scoring first half, it was the Sabres who made their chances count, firing off a 24-6 scoring run to enter halftime firmly clutching momentum. The gigantic shift in success was reflective of the turnover bug reemerging for the Storm, as the hosts gave away the ball 30 times, double their ideal amount.

“They tipped a lot of passes, were kicking away passing lanes and took away the middle of the court,” Coach Roesch said.

“We weren’t able to adjust to it very well. They played harder on defense than what we did on offense, so those are adjustments we have to be able to make.”

There were signs of life from the Storm in the second half, fueled by 22 overall rebounds on the night, but it was not enough to Mia Turner goes to block a pass thrown by Sartell’s Elle dispel the drive and deterMahowald Feb. 2 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk mination from the visiting Rapids. Despite a mostly-solid defensive effort, the Storm Sabres in the 18-point loss.

SAR SRR

26 31-57 15 24-39 SRR: Froiland 10 points (4R, 4S), Rogholt 8, Kyanah Evans 6 (4R, 4S), Grace Roesch 6, Keanna Guggisberg 4, Courtney Paulsen 3, Emily Schloe 2 and Belle Haddy (6R).

SRR 76, Apollo 57 Going into the season, playmaking guard Evans was expected to make an impact for the Storm.

Against the Apollo Eagles, it was not hard to see why.

The senior was absolutely dynamic, collecting 27 points as SRR used a strong offensive showing to down Apollo Jan. 29 at Apollo High School in St. Cloud.

It was not a smooth start for the Storm, who fell behind by eight heading into halftime. However, they came alive in the second half, tallying 51 points in 18 minutes of court time.

The Storm reeled in 34 rebounds as they cashed in on a good portion of their possessions. Grace Roesch totaled 16 points and seven boards, while Froiland and Rogholt added 14 and 11 points, respectively.

SRR SCA

25 51-76 33 24-57 SRR: Evans 27 (3S), Roesch 16 (7R, 3A), Froiland 14 (7R, 3S), Rogholt 11 (7R, 3S), Mackenzie Felchle 4 (4R, 4A), Guggisberg 4 and Haddy (4R).

fell to the Sabres 57-39.

Swim and Dive

Lucas earns spot amid school’s best Swim and dive falls to Sartell

f r

BY DANNA SABOLIK STAFF WRITER

The Storm’s best effort was not enough Jan. 28. The Sauk Rapids-Rice rboys swim and dive team was defeated 107-77 by the Sabres at the Sartell High School in Sartell.

“We got a firsthand look at one of the very best swim teams in Class tA tonight,” said Jason Tangen, head coach. “The team responded very well to the upgrade in compe-

tition and posted quite a few personal best times.”

Regardless of the team’s defeat, freshman Alex Lucas achieved 17th place on the Storm’s top 20 list for the 500-yard freestyle event, posting a time of 5 minutes, 29.87 seconds.

The Storm competed Feb. 4 at home against Alexandria and will travel to Tech High School for a 6 p.m. dual Thursday, Feb. 11, in St. Cloud.

200MR: 2.

Jack Christoferson, Tucker Hendrickson, Hayden Zabinski and Jack O’Brien 1:50.18 and 5. Noah Blodgett, Gavin

Butkowski, Steven Ritten and Elijah Grabinski 2:03.01.

200FS: 2. Cash Walz 1:59.18, 4. Lucas 2:04.43, 6. Kyle Petermeier 2:18.39 and 7.

Cole Sowada (EX) 2:23.59.

200IM: 1. Hendrickson 2:14.23, 4. William Nielsen 2:27.94 and 5. Evan Scapanski 2:51.75. 50FS: 4. O’Brien 25.14, 5. Blodgett 25.17, 7.

Jaxon Young 27.06 and 8.

John Moran (EX) 27.14. 1M Diving: 1. Elijah Grabinski 240.10 points and 4. Reid Johnson 145.35. 100FLY: 4. Moran 1:10.11 and 5. Petermeier 1:16.69. 100FS: 2. Christoferson 54.53, 4.

O’Brien 58.78 and 5. Ritten 59.20. 500FS: 1. Walz 5:21.39, 2. Lucas 5:29.87 and 6. Scapanski 6:33.13.

200FSR: 3. Christoferson, O’Brien, Nielsen and Hendrickson 1:37.24; 5.

Ritten, Lucas, Mora and Matt Woeste 1:48.32 and 6. Sowada, Owen Chilson, Scapanski and Johnson (EX) 2:04.41. 100BK: 3.

Christoferson 1:04.95 and 4. Young 1:06.02. 100BR: 1. Hendrickson 1:04.43, 4.

Nielsen 1:12.33, 7. Butkowski 1:29.64 and 8. Woeste (EX) 1:39.56. 400FSR: 1.

Walz, Blodgett, Lucas and Petermeier 3:50.07; 2. Sowada, Young, Scapanski and Moran 4:18.59 and 3. Butkowski, Ian Eichers, Chuck Peterson and Woeste (EX) 4:46.22.

Twins upgrade defense by signing Simmons After slow-playing the first few months of the free agency period, the Minnesota Twins finally made their first significant offseason acquisition Jan. 31, signing veteran shortstop Andrelton Simmons to a one-year, $10.5 mil- SPORTS COLUMNIST

BY ANDY THAYER lion deal. This signing reinforces a bit of a paradigm shift for the organization that began last season, as they clearly appear to be leaning into run prevention instead of trying to win every game by outslugging their opponents.

Simply put, Simmons has been the best defensive player in baseball for years. Per Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic, no shortstop has ever had more defensive runs saved than Simmons through their age 30 season (+191), and Simmons trails only Ozzie Smith and Mark Belanger on the all-time shortstop DRS leaderboard. Simmons’ 113.1 ultimate zone rating is more than double that of any other qualified shortstop since his debut in 2012. This dude is the absolute real deal defensively, and he’s going to pay massive dividends for the team’s pitching staff.

The Simmons signing is also going to have a fantastic trickle-down effect on the team’s infield defense and depth. Jorge Polanco, who was overmatched defensively at shortstop due to his weak and inaccurate arm, can now move to second base. His arm will play much better at the keystone, where he spent the majority of his minor league career. This then frees up Luis Arraez to bring his superior bat to the utility roles that had previously been manned by the punchless Marwin Gonzalez and Ehire Adrianza. It also will allow Arraez to be the primary backup at third base for the injury-prone Josh Donaldson. The Twins’ up the middle defense with Simmons, Polanco and Byron Buxton is going to be absolutely spectacular this season, and they’ll also be aboveaverage at third base, catcher and right field.

Despite slightly below-average offensive statistics throughout his career (90 wRC+), Simmons has received down-ballot MVP votes due to his incredible defensive performance. For a team that ranked fourth in the major leagues with a 3.58 ERA last season, adding the best defensive player in the game to their defense is going to make this team’s run prevention elite. If the Twins even have a league-average offense this year, they are going to compete for a playoff spot.

The other benefit to Simmons’ one-year contract is it maintains long-term flexibility at shortstop for the organization. The Twins’ second-best prospect, Royce Lewis, is also a shortstop, and he could very well be major-league ready by the start of 2022. If the Twins are ready to promote him, they won’t be married to Simmons long-term and can make a clean transition to Lewis next spring.

If Lewis doesn’t develop as planned, they can always try to re-sign Simmons next offseason if he plays well and remains healthy this year. Simmons battled ankle problems and personal issues last year, and this one-year contract also gives the team flexibility if things don’t work out.

Twins manager Rocco Baldelli called Simmons one of the greatest defenders of our generation and said, “It doesn’t just add to our defense.

I think it’s going to add to the way our pitchers throw the ball and go about their business. The ability to help ourselves on that (defensive) side of the ball in such a dynamic way was something we couldn’t resist.”

Derek Falvey, team president of baseball operations, put it best when he said, “If you like defense in a baseball game, I suggest you tune in to a few of ours.”

SPORTS

Page 10 | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Dancers claim third in conference high kick

Rocori sneaks past Storm in jazz performance

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

After a 12-day break, the Sauk Rapids-Rice dance team crossed the river to take on conference rivals in Sartell.

SRR performed its high kick and jazz routines in the first heat of the Central Lakes Conference meet Jan. 30 at Sartell High School. Once all schools had performed and judges had tallied results, the Storm dancers finished with third place in high kick and fourth place in jazz.

The Sartell Sabres, who are the defending Class AA state champion in high kick and runnersup in jazz, took home first place honors in both events followed by Brainerd.

Rocori placed third in jazz, edging out the Storm by just two points.

It was the first time Storm dance had performed its jazz routine, according to head coach Ali Mohr.

Mohr said after assessing scores from the previous “Dance with Somebody” routine, the team decided to scrap the music and choreography, reduce the number of jazz dancers and start over. They learned

the routine “Higher” Jan. 25-27 before debuting the piece in Sartell.

“This one’s a little more upbeat,” Mohr said. … “So far, our points have gone way up for it, so I think it was the right decision.”

Mohr said although SRR only trailed Rocori by two points, it’s hard to determine whether the Storm will climb the ranks by season end. She said every team works hard to improve, so while the SRR dancers are putting in the time, so are other teams.

“It’s not just bettering yourself, you have to better yourself and then some because every other team is also doing that same thing,” Mohr said.

Still, Mohr is hopeful for the team’s success as she said high kick is already scoring higher than this point in the season last year.

“We are scoring right now close to where we scored last year at sections,” she said. “That’s pretty phenomenal that we’re kind of a month ahead of the game as far as practice goes … for kick. For jazz, we’re still behind, but, like I said, this

Public Notices

CITY OF RICE COUNTY OF BENTON STATE OF MINNESOTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held by the City of Rice City Council at 6:00 pm on Monday March 1st, 2021 at the Rice City Hall, 205 Main Street East, Rice, MN 56367 for the purpose of hearing from the public, considering, and making recommendation to the City Council regarding an Ordinance 21 Subd. 1. Changing City Council Meetings from 7 PM to 6 PM. A copy of the proposed ordinances can be obtained by contacting City Hall.

All interested persons will be given an opportunity to comment, testify, or present evidence at the hearing.

Dated: February 2nd, 2021 Julie Fandel City Clerk City of Rice, MN R-5-1B

PHOTOS BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Bella Stewart (from left), Natalie Jansen and Joani Fautsch kick their legs up Jan. 30 at Sartell High School in Sartell. The Storm dance team faced a large field of competition, including the Sabres, 2020’s high kick state champions.

weekend was the first time ever competing, so some of those kinks will work themselves out the more we perform it.”

The Storm host its home show Saturday, Feb. 6, inviting eight schools to compete in Sauk Rapids. Bemidji, Delano, Duluth East, St. MichaelAlbertville, Forest Lake, Hutchinson, Moorhead

High kick: 1. Sartell 421 points of 500 (3.5), 2. Brainerd 404 (6), 3. SRR 377 (9), 4. Rocori 368 (12) 5. Tech-Apollo 326 (15), Alexandria 310 (6) and Willmar 289 (21).

Jazz: 1. Sartell 429 (3), 2. Brainerd 399 (6), 3.

Rocori 355 (9.5), 4. SRR 353 (10.5), 5. Tech-Apollo 298 (15), Alexandria 282 (19), Bemidji 282 (20) and Willmar 243 (24).

Sarah Anderson dances Jan. 30 at Sartell High School in Sartell. Sauk Rapids-Rice’s jazz dancers earned 37 of 50 points in creativity.

Lumberjacks fail to finish as struggles continue New Ulm steals another win

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

When Granite City Lumberjacks goaltender Brandon Shantz got his glove on a penalty shot from New Ulm Steel forward James Spaargaren, his teammates lining the visitor’s bench believed the reliable netminder had made the biggest save of the game.

However, they were surprised to see the goal light behind the net illuminated, a signal that Granite City’s momentum

SCHEDULE Saturday, Feb. 6 Monday, Feb. 8 Tuesday, Feb. 9 Tuesday, Feb. 9 Thursday, Feb. 11 Thursday, Feb. 11 Thursday, Feb. 11 Friday, Feb. 12 Friday Feb. 12 Saturday, Feb. 13 Saturday, Feb. 13 Saturday, Feb. 13

and Tech-Apollo will perform at Sauk RapidsRice High School.

The meet begins the second half of the Storm dance competitive season.

They will have 20 days to hone their skills in the regular season before competing in Section 4AAA competition at Forest Lake High School Feb. 26.

Dance Invite Boys Basketball at St. Francis Girls Basketball at Rocori Girls Hockey at St. Cloud Boys Swim vs. St. Cloud Tech Boys Hockey vs. Pequot Lakes Boys Basketball vs. St. Cloud Tech Wrestling Triangular at Rocori Girls Basketball vs. Alexandria Dance Team Invite at Anoka Girls Hockey vs. Buffalo Boys Hockey vs. Princeton

H A A A A A A A H A H A

10:00 am 7:00 pm 7:15 pm 7:15 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:15 pm 5:00 pm 7:15 pm 11:00 am 1:00 pm 2:00 pm

had faded away.

When the skates stopped moving, the Steel were victorious, scraping out a 3-2 triumph over the Lumberjacks Feb. 3 at New Ulm Civic Center in New Ulm. “We strung together three solid periods and there were a couple of defensive breakdowns, which hurt us and led to the loss, but offensively and in between, the guys played pretty solid,” said Eric Moser, assistant coach.

“It was a loss, but overall, it was a step in the right direction to getting back on track to where we were at the start of the year.”

Like many of their previous contests, Granite City failed to score first despite maintaining much of the early aggression. The Lumberjacks fired 20 shots in the first period alone but relinquished a power-play goal eight minutes into the game to quickly fall behind.

“That’s one thing we’ve tried to harp on our guys for is being a lot more focused and mentally prepared when they come to the rink,” Moser said.

“That’s our biggest issue right now; our guys are too loose.”

Granite City responded with authority, however,

snagging two quick goals to begin the second period.

Troy Dahlheimer and Hanson O’Leary were the beneficiaries of spectacular zone entries, both set up by defenseman Camden Benson, who led the team with two points.

“He’s got the ability and the smarts when it comes to the offensive zone, finding soft areas and dishing the puck,” Moser said. “When it comes to the offensive zone, he’s pretty dynamite.”

Then came the fateful penalty shot, where Spaargaren’s shot tipped off Shantz’s glove and rolled past the goaltender and into the net to tie the game with three minutes remaining in the middle period. It was a turning point for the Steel, who had struggled to get pucks behind the solid Shantz, who finished the night with 31 saves.

“He’s done everything we’ve asked of him between the pipes,” Moser said.

Spaargaren scored the game-winning tally for New Ulm, a second shorthanded goal at 5:37 in the third period to sink the Lumberjacks’ ship.

Granite City began the first of two consecutive games against the North Iowa Bulls, the current leaders of the West Division, in a matchup

with gigantic stakes Feb. 5.

They will look to chip away at the Bulls’ point lead at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10, at Sports Arena East in Sauk Rapids.

“That would be a huge turning point for our guys and an opportunity to prove we’re still Granite City, we’re still the Lumberjacks and we’re here to make a push for first in the West Division,” Moser said.

GCL NU

0 2 0-2 1 1 1-3 GCL: Second period: 2. Dahlheimer (Benson, Tal Halliday) 2:11. 3. O’Leary (Nicholas Richert, Benson) 8:47. Shantz 31 of 34.

Alexandria 6, Granite City 4 January wrapped up as officially back-and-forth as it could get.

The Lumberjacks, fresh off a 6-3 win over their divisional rival Alexandria Blizzard, could not sustain that success in a high-scoring 6-4 loss to the Blizzard Jan. 31 at Sports Arena East in Sauk Rapids.

With the loss, Granite City alternated wins and losses on their way to a 3-3 record during the month.

Alexandria asserted their offensive vigor from the opening puck drop, controlling many early possessions and turning their flickers of opportunity into results.

Carter Rieland got the Lumberjacks page 11

SPORTS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | Page 11

Storm stumbles against stout Sartell team SRR boys allow over 80 points in loss

Senior captain piles up five goals in successful week

BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER

There was a reason Sauk Rapids-Rice boys basketball head coach Derek Peterson referred to the team’s latest assortment of games as the gauntlet.

The Sartell-St. Stephen Sabres showed just why they are one of Class AAA’s greatest threats, putting together a 24-0 scoring run to soundly defeat the Storm 83-69 Feb. 1 at Sartell High School in Sartell.

“Defensively, it was probably the worst performance of the year,” Peterson said.

“We just could not stop them and part of that was we didn’t play good defense, and part of it was, to Sartell’s credit, they did a good job of executing their offense and making shots.”

The Sabres established their offensive identity

quickly and assertively, jumping out to an 11-2 lead over their riverside rivals. However, SRR remained vigilant during this slow stretch and eventually found their rhythm, pulling ahead by as much as three points during an exciting first half.

“Our kids have basically done that all year,” Peterson said.

“We’ve been down in some games and all of a sudden, we’re right back in it. You have to credit our kids; they made some big shots.”

Ethan Opsahl was dynamic, taking on a volume of work while facing a defense locked in on stopping him.

Despite the attention, the senior was hard to stop, scoring 32 points. Opsahl hit five 3-pointers and made all five of his free throws.

“Ethan is a very

BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER

PHOTOS BY MARK KLAPHAKE

Alex Harren (left) and Bryce Lund trap a Alexandria player in the second half of the Jan. 28 game in Alexandria. The Storm trailed by five at halftime and lost 72-57.

talented basketball player and a talented scorer for us,” Peterson said. “He had guys all over him and was still scoring the basketball.”

All hopes of leaving

Sartell with an upset dissipated, however, with the aforementioned climactic scoring run as halftime approached.

Boys basketball page 12

Lumberjacks from page 10 scoring frenzy started with a score 3:25 in before former Lumberjack Nikolai Rajala upped the Blizzard lead with a power-play goal four minutes later.

Providing a steadying effort to Granite City’s game was Noah Bissett, who continues to demonstrate himself as a menace on the ice. The St. Joseph native got the Lumberjacks on the board with his fourth goal in as many contests as the team entered their home locker room for the first intermission down a score.

The second period was as high-octane as a 20-minute timeframe of hockey could be.

Bissett, Cody Dias and Wyatt Halverson teamed up for the game-tying mark 3:47 into the period as a scoring seesaw began, with the teams trading a pair of goals each. Forward Ben Anderson registered his third goal of the campaign as a member of one of Granite City’s most active lines alongside Braeden Bartoo and Zach Kilen.

Alexandria’s game-winner

Wieland’s hat trick leads to win

came off the red-hot stick of lefthanded forward Caleb Strong, who turned a two-on-two rush into an open look on Shantz before capitalizing with his 12th goal of a spectacular season.

Strong also recorded an emptynet tally to secure the victory.

Blizzard netminder Joey Greilich picked up 34 saves in an outstanding effort.

ALX GCL

2 2 2-6 1 2 1-4 GCL: First period: 3. Bissett (Bjorn Jorgensen, Tucker Skime) 13:46. Second period: 4. Halverson (Bissett, Dias) 3:47. 6. Anderson (Sean Davidson, Bartoo) 10:20.

Third period: Davidson (Kilen) 9:37.

Bailey Huber 15 of 19 and Shantz 9 of 10.

Granite City 6, Alexandria 3 Despite the long time away from the rivalry, no intensity was lost between the Blizzard and Lumberjacks.

In a period that saw a fight, three roughing penalties and 10 total infractions, the Lumberjacks piled up four goals to steal a heart-pounding win Jan. 30 at

Runestone Community Center in Alexandria.

Matthew Metsa and Skime started off the slugfest with their second scores of the season, providing Granite City with some cushion entering the first period.

However, Alexandria’s response was effective and calculated, as the Blizzard fought back to a tie game.

The line of Anderson, Bartoo and Kilen were dominant in the final 20 minutes, combining for five points.

Dias picked up a handy, advantage-increasing shorthanded goal with under five minutes to go, while Bissett landed an empty-netter to send the Lumberjacks to a 9-3 record.

GCL ALX

2 0 4-6 0 2 1-3 GCL: First period: 1. Metsa (Kilen, Jonah Jangula) 2:52. 2.

Skime (O’Leary, Halliday) 9:44. Third period: 5. Kilen (Bartoo, Anderson) 2:49. 7. Anderson (Bartoo) 11:01.

8. Dias 15:47. 9. Bissett (Cameron Cromwell) 18:11. Shantz 26 of 29.

PHOTOS FROM THESE GAMES NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE

Central Lakes Conference dance at Sartell Boys Basketball vs. Alexandria Girls Basketball vs. Sartell Find them online at www.saukrapidsherald.com under ‘photos’

Maybe it is the cold, icy environment of hockey, but it is not hard to see when a player gets hot. And, the recently-stellar play of Sauk Rapids-Rice-Sartell forward Rachel Wieland is a prime example.

Wieland picked up the team’s first hat trick of the season, guiding the co-op to a 5-1 win over the Bemidji Lumberjacks Feb. 2 at Bemidji Community Arena in Bemidji.

“Some players can shoot and beat a goalie from anywhere, and she is one of those players,” said Marty Anderson, head coach. “She’s got the hot hand right now, and hopefully we can keep that going.”

SRRS continued their undefeated start to the campaign through overcoming a sluggish opening few minutes, eventually settling into a groove in the first period. The visitors demolished the Lumberjacks in the shot department, recording 15 shots to Bemidji’s four. This, along with an established forecheck, resulted in the first goal of the game with five minutes remaining in the period.

“Once we got our speed going, I felt like we were quicker than them and you start beating them to loose pucks and forcing turnovers,” Anderson said. “That set the tone for us; we could create offense coming off turnovers, and that starts with our speed up front.”

SRRS’s forward group was dominant on the night. Helping contribute to Wieland’s special night was Lauren Wensel, who led the team in overall points with four. After picking up a pair of assists in the team’s tie a few days before, the talented senior dished out three more, seemingly doing no wrong in picking apart a young Lumberjacks team.

“She seems to create turnovers that then lead to offense,” Anderson said. “Especially when you play against an inexperienced team, a player like that will be a problem.”

Two second period goals allowed SRRS to seize full control of the contest, even as Bemidji finally reached the scoreboard with a goal from Lexi Leitner at 9:58. The cooperative could not find the back of the net on their power-play opportunities but showed immense composure and confidence in even-strength opportunities, taking 37 total shots.

Morgan Dorn continues to provide stability within the crease.

The freshman, recently named a Central Lakes Conference Performer of the Week, came through with 19 saves, good for a .950 save percentage.

“A good goaltender gives the rest of the team confidence because they understand if there’s a mistake, there’s a good chance Morgan will bail them out,” Anderson said. “She’s only going to get better, and her work ethic is exceptional. We’ve been lucky with good goalies over the last dozen years, and she’s falling in line to be another one.”

With the intense, hard-fought victory, SRRS improves to 3-0-1 on the season. They battled with Willmar Feb. 5 and expect more positive results against the St. Cloud Icebreakers at 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 9, at the St. Cloud Municipal Athletic Complex in St. Cloud.

“We want to keep playing our game and intensity is always high when we play St. Cloud,” Anderson said. “I think the girls will be ready for that and it should be a great game.”

SRR 1 2 2-5 BEM 0 1 0-1 SRR: First period: 1. Wensel (Rachel Lindmeier) 15:04. Second period: 2. Jayden Lommel (Peyton Sabart, Lindmeier) 3:23. 3. Wieland (Wensel) 5:00. Third period: 5. Wieland (Wensel) 2:48. 6. Wieland (Wensel, Sabart). Dorn 19 of 20.

SRRS 2, River Lakes 2 It was not a win, but SRRS managed to snap the River Lakes Stars’ winning streak to begin the season.

Wieland picked up a pair of goals as SRRS fought their way to a tie against the Stars Jan. 28 at Paynesville Arena in Paynesville.

After the teams saw limited opportunities to cash in the first period, Wieland’s first score came on the power play 5:41 into the middle period, assisted by Cromwell and Wensel.

SRRS played a sharp third period, headlined by yet another power-play tally from Wieland. They outshot the Stars 9-6 during the final frame after River Lakes held 18-12 shooting through the first two periods.

Kianna Roeske prevented a SRRS win, notching an unassisted equalizer with eight minutes remaining in the contest.

SRRS 0 1 1 0-2 RL 0 1 1 0-2 SRR: Second period: 1. Wieland (Cromwell, Wensel) 5:41. Third period: 3. Wieland (Wensel, Tia Vogt) 6:55. Dorn 27 of 29.

SPORTS

Page 12 | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Boys basketball from front

The Sabres, behind an outstanding field-goal percentage of 54%, could not be denied by SRR’s man-to-man defensive pressure, consistently gaining advantages toward the Storm’s side of the court on their way to a near-perfect stretch of

basketball.

“Sartell is a very athletic and quick team, and I think pressuring them worked against us,” Peterson said. “Once they got past that first surge of pressure, they were able to go and score at will because we had a lot of mismatches

at that point.”

Meanwhile, while the Storm received a major boost from Opsahl and pulled down 19 offensive rebounds in a driven and spirited performance, they could not overcome rushed decisions on offense. SRR made a lower percentage of their two-point attempts than their 3-pointers, and they scored just 12 points off 15 Sartell-St. Stephen

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turnovers.

“We got into a situation where we were not doing our best to play as a team,” Peterson said. “We were … forcing some things on offense and not working to get a good shot. As you do that more and more, there’s less chance of the ball going in the basket.”

The Storm outscored the Sabres 39-35 in the second half, enough to display signs of optimism but not enough to chip away at Sartell-St. Stephen’s lofty lead. Andrew Harren and Alex Harren combined for 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Dominic Mathies led all players with five assists.

SRR traveled north to Fergus Falls to face the Otters Feb. 5. They will look to improve on their deficiencies when they take on the St. Francis Saints at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 8, at St. Francis Soccer Complex in St. Francis.

SRR SST

30 39-69 48 35-83 SRR: Opsahl 32 points (4R), Andrew Harren 10 (5R), Alex Harren 9 (5R), Elijah Moilanen 6 (5R), Carter Loesch 5 (7R), Mathies 4 (3R, 5A), Andrew Kath 2 and Jayce Walrath 1.

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Because friendly still counts.

R5-1B-TV

Alexandria 72, SRR 57 At one point in their difficult endeavor of attempting to knock off the Alexandria Cardinals, the Storm fell behind by 13 about halfway through the second half. They were not pushed down by Alexandria’s momentum, fighting back to within four with three minutes remaining.

Despite their ferocious comeback effort, however, Alexandria showed why they were ranked No. 3 in the initial Class AAA QRF rankings, closing out the Storm with a dominant finish in a 72-57 triumph Jan. 28 at Alexandria Area High School in Alexandria.

PHOTOS BY MARK KLAPHAKE

Junior guard Elijah Moilanen drives hard to the basket in the Storm’s road game Jan. 28 at Alexandria. Moilanen had a well-rounded game, finishing with 10 points, five assists and 3 rebounds.

Opsahl paced SRR with 16 points, including four 3-pointers, while Moilanen pitched in 10 points, three boards and five assists.

The Cardinals managed to shoot effectively all across the

offensive zone, making 51% of their overall shots.

SRR ALX

30 27-57 35 37-72 SRR: Opsahl 16 (3R), Moilanen 10 (3R, 5A), Alex Harren 9, Andrew Harren 9 (3R), Loesch 5 (6R), Mason Rudolph 5 and Mathies 3 (3R).

S a u k RapidsRice junior C a r t e r Loesch puts up a shot down low during the Storm’s g a m e Jan. 28 in Alexandria.

Loesch had five points and six rebounds.

Leading the

Steve Ritten

Parents: Josh Bickford and Jenny Ritten-Bickford Accomplishment: Senior on the Sauk RapidsRice High School boys swim and dive team.

What is your favorite part about swim and dive? The atmosphere. I have played a lot of sports, and none of them have the same feeling of camaraderie. The difficulty and shared experience of swimming creates a tight-knit group of people and that is really cool.

What is your favorite thing to do with your team? Spending time with the boys. It’s been cool for me as a senior to reflect on the growth and improvement I have witnessed from my teammates the last five years.

Leading the Storm is

understand that they might be struggling with.

Which teacher has impacted your education most? Ms. McKenzie-Martin, my eighth-grade English teacher. I struggled with finding themes and deeper meaning in writing, but with her help, I figured it out. This was impactful because it showed me that if I try hard enough, I can learn anything I put my mind to.

about the things I have worked on in practice that I want to make sure I implement at the meet.

Who has been a mentor to you? My swim coaches. This is for a few reasons. The first is if I What other activities are you involved in at have something I am struggling with, I have always school? The Upward Bound program. been able to talk to them about it, and they’ve done their best to help guide me through it. The second Why is it important for you to be involved is they all seem grounded and this has always been in school activities? Because it gives you an inspiring to me. The third is the positive way they opportunity to meet people outside of your talk and interact with the team, which helps to set classes and spend time with friends outside of the up the atmosphere and helps to keep the mood classroom. positive even during hard practices.

How do you make a difference at school? By How do you prepare in the minutes leading up the effort I make to include everyone in projects, to competition? I think about meets I have swam assignments and events I participate in. I also try in the past, about the times I want to go for and to help other students with concepts or problems I

What is your favorite meal, movie, social media and song? Roast lamb with potatoes and carrots, “Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring,” Instagram and “Beautiful Creatures” by Illenium.

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Valentine’s Day & Weddings

Say yes for less in newly-expanded bridal space

LOVE 2021

All you need is

Rapids Alterations now sells discounted wedding dresses in Sauk Rapids

BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER

A Sauk Rapids business that has been professionally altering wedding-day attire for decades is now offering a shopping experience for brides-to-be.

Rapids Alterations has added a bridal consignment to its newly-expanded space at 621 N. Benton Drive. More than 60 bridal gowns – new, with tags – are for sale at discounted prices.

Most of the dresses come from bridal boutiques in Waite Park and New Ulm. Some of the gowns are marked down 50% and some by as much as 75%.

Prices range from about $100 to $999. One of the designer gowns, originally priced at $1,770, is marked down to $399.

“There was no bridal consignment shop in town, so I thought, well, let’s try it,” said

Cindy Battleson, owner.

Wedding parties also have more space to be fitted for their formal wear. In August, Rapids Alterations was moved to the lower level of the existing building, doubling its space.

Among the amenities for customers are five large fitting rooms – two more than before – including an extra-large dressing room for brides, complete with a sitting area.

The large bridal area, with expansive mirrors for every angle during fittings, is more than double the previous size, creating more space for brides to move around in their gowns while accompanied by an attendant.

And there is plenty of room for their entourage.

Near the fitting rooms is the bridal consignment area, where customers can browse ivory and white wedding gowns of different

Bridal gowns hang for sale inside a new bridal consignment area at Rapids Alterations on North Benton Drive. More than 60 gowns – new, with tags – are offered at discounted prices.

FEBRUARY 6 & 9, 2021

styles.

By the new front desk and reception area, dresses for bridesmaids and mothers of the bride are for sale, also at discounted prices. This space is where Rapids Alterations will sell prom dresses as a fundraiser for the Central Minnesota Sexual Assault Center. Each year, the Prom It Forward project brings in several hundred formal gowns, which retail for $40 or under. With the uncertainty of prom this year and special-order dresses taking longer to arrive, Battleson moved dresses suitable for bridesmaids, attendants, mothers, grandmothers, etc., to the front.

Rapids Alterations typically serves hundreds of brides every year. The pandemic has hindered the wedding business, but Battleson looks forward to assisting more brides with dress shopping and alterations as a sense of normalcy returns.

Last year, despite fewer wedding ceremonies taking place due to COVID-19, Rapids Alterations served 134 brides, Battleson said. With more space to accommodate them, she is optimistic that number will multiply as time goes on.

“I think once weddings take off, we’ll be busy,” said Battleson, who became the fourth owner of the long-running business, established in 1978, nine years ago. “I have hope things will get back to normal. I love my job. I love helping the brides. It’s my favorite thing to do here, doing bridal fittings.”

Five dedicated seamstresses do bridal gown alterations. The

PHOTOS BY ELLARRY PRENTICE

Cindy Battleson, owner of Rapids Alterations in Sauk Rapids, helps bride-to-be Megan during a fitting in the newlyexpanded bridal area.

seamstresses also alter dresses for bridesmaids, flower girls, mothers of the bride and other wedding attendants. Whether it is a dress for date night or the most special day of your life, Battleson said these professionals can tackle any alteration.

The new space also better accommodates employees. The seamstresses are pleased to have a much larger work area.

“This is the best sewing room in the world,” Battleson said. “Everything they need is at their fingertips.”

Brides keep the seamstresses especially busy in the summer months. With a plethora of gowns to hem, bustles to create and other alterations to complete to ensure each dress fits perfectly, they are thankful to no longer be bumping into one another, especially in the thick of wedding season.

“They were literally working right on top of each other,” Battleson said. “Now, they’re spread out. They can breathe.”

Every year, Rapids

Alterations serves brides who took their dress elsewhere for alterations but did not achieve a proper fit, Battleson said. During the pandemic, her team has also accommodated brides in cases when wedding dates have had to change.

“We go above and beyond,” Battleson said.

One bride was supposed to have fittings through the month of December, but when she needed the dress weeks sooner, they expedited the alterations to make sure she was ready for her big day.

“I told her, ‘You’re going to wear this dress. We’re going to get this done for you,’” Battleson said.

Ideally, most brides have four fittings, and most bridesmaids have two fittings during the alteration process. The staff at Rapids Alterations prefer to have a full two months to complete alterations on a bridal gown and a month to work on bridesmaid dresses.

Rapids Alterations page 2B

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Page 2B | Saturday, Feb. 6, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD & BENTON COUNTY NEWS

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Mirrors surround the newly-expanded bridal area at Rapids Alterations. Brides now have more space to move around in their gowns.

Rapids Alterations from page 1B

Dress shoppers should keep in mind that the more elaborate the dress, the more expensive the alterations, Battleson said. This is especially

true for bridesmaids who sometimes agreed to be in a wedding and want to wear an elaborate dress without realizing the final costs involved.

“Everything that takes the seamstress longer to sew, costs more,” Battleson said. “That dress with six wings on it looks really cool, but that’s a really expensive hem.

Rapids Alterations page 3B

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from page 2B You can spend as much on your hem as you did on your bridesmaid’s dress.”

An advantage of going to Rapids Alterations is having access to a team who have more than 100 years of sewing experience, Battleson said.

“That makes us stronger than a single person sewing out of their home or their own studio,” she said.

There are plenty of great in-home seamstresses, Battleson said. She herself used to sew at home.

“But, when you’re faced with a quandary,

PHOTO BY ELLARRY PRENTICE

An extra-large fitting room awaits brides who visit Rapids Alterations, either to shop for a dress or to have theirs fitted for alterations. By relocating to the lower level of the existing building, the shop doubled its space.

the team comes together to figure it out,” Battleson said. “Plus, we can take on a lot.”

Rapids Alterations has a bridal and formal blog on its website, www. rapidsalterations.com, where people can learn about the four steps of alteration and scheduling

appointments, get tips on proper dress fitting and online dress shopping, and get answers to questions such as “Can I wear my loved one’s dress?”

“The best piece of advice I can give a bride is to read that blog,” Battleson said.

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Dress alteration tips – Seamstresses prefer to have a full two months to alter a bridal gown and a full month to alter a bridesmaid’s dress or other formal gown. When ordering a dress, plan accordingly.

– A typical bride will have four one-hour fittings. The first fitting focuses on the bodice and other areas above the waist to make sure it fits properly. The second fitting focuses on the hem, and the third fitting is for the bustle. The final fitting is to make sure everything is perfect. Other alterations like straps, bead work, belts and repairs get worked in along the way.

– A typical bridesmaid will have two, possibly three, 30-minute fittings. The order of work is the same as it is for a bridal gown.

– When it comes to your dress, think time. It is usually not too early to bring a dress in for alterations, but it can be too late. A little planning can also prevent extra charges. When a rush order comes in, the bride needs to have time available for all the fittings, the shop appointment book needs to have openings, and the

sewing schedule at the shop needs to be re-arranged to accommodate the rush. A rush charge should be expected.

– Purchasing a dress more modest in style makes the job easier on your checkbook. Having a solid structure to start with when adding material will reduce design and construction time, which will directly affect the cost of your alterations.

– A dress with straps, sleeves and a higher neckline will provide a good base to add more material if needed and a better fit overall. Rapids Alterations can add material and full linings to bodices and sleeves, and raise necklines and the back of a dress to a more appropriate height.

– It is best to make an appointment. You and your friends may decide, at the last-minute, to go bridal shopping and cannot be helped at the shop because all the clerks are tied up with customers already. Same for alterations. Only certain people can do bridal fittings.

Appointments ensure a bridal professional will be available to assist at your fitting.

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selection

Morrison County teen chosen as ag ambassador

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

LASTRUP – Sixteen-year-old Macy Hoffman does not want to be a nurse when she grows up.

Although it was and is the chosen path of her mother and sister, the career field does not appeal to her; she would rather be outside.

“I’m leaning toward agriculture,” Hoffman said.

“I’ve always been outside as a kid, and I don’t think I’d be happy staying indoors for very long. There are so many different opportunities in agriculture, and I just want to do

something I’m comfortable with, I’m going to stick with and I’m going to be happy I chose later down the line.”

Hoffman is one of the newest faces in the Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassador program put on by the University of Minnesota Extension. She is the daughter of Rob and Bernie Hoffman of rural Lastrup.

As the lone appointee from the northeast region, Hoffman joins 14 youth from Dodge, Isanti, Le Sueur, McLeod, Nicollet, Olmsted, Renville and Washington counties as each endeavor on a yearlong journey to polish leadership skills, expand professional networks and advocate for agricultural issues.

The Pierz High School sophomore received notice of her selection via email.

“I might have cried,” Hoffman said with a smile. “I actually was in town shopping with my sister because she was leaving to go to college again.”

As a conversation about scholarships came up, Hoffman checked her email on her smartphone.

“I saw that they sent something and I clicked it,” Hoffman said. “I read the first paragraph, and I cried. I was just like, ‘I did it.’”

According to the UMN Extension, Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors are representatives of the 4-H Youth Development program. Ambassadors are self-motivated, enthusiastic leaders who seek to lead and educate others in their community.

They are selected through a competitive application process that examines ambition in 4-H agriculture and animal science projects, career interest in agriculture, leadership qualities and willingness to bring about positive change.

Hoffman page 2C PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

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Macy Hoffman is one of 15 youth chosen for the Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassador program. The program is in its second year.

Stakeholders will be notified of schedule change through email ST. PAUL – An informational session on Little Rock Creek that was planned for late January will be rescheduled for later this winter, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. A release notified stakeholders Jan. 27.

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Hoffman fits the mold.

Growing up, Hoffman was exposed to agriculture through her parents. The family had horses and helped Bernie’s father with his beef farm before taking on that role themselves.

Today, Hoffman lends a hand with chores such as raking and baling hay and feeding animals.

She is a member of the Dynamites 4-H Club and Morrison County Hoofbeats 4-H Club.

She is entering her 10th season in 4-H where she shows goats and horses as well as participates in static projects and other activities. She has held every officer position in her local club as well as represented the Morrison County program as the federation reporter.

In addition to 4-H, she goes to open shows put on

by Western Saddle Clubs Association Inc., and participates in O-MokSee and as a member of the Crow Wing County Large Freestyle 4-H Horse Drill Team.

Hoffman works a retail sales job at RJ’s Meats in Hillman, is

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

Macy Hoffman stands with her horse, Breeze, at her home in rural Lastrup Feb. 2. She often helps take care of the animals her family owns which include beef cattle, goats, horses and two pet dogs.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Macy Hoffman stands with a goat after showing as part of the Morrison County Fair in 2020. She is a member of the Dynamites and Morrison County Hoofbeats 4-H clubs.

involved in the Pierz FFA own Boer goat herd.

Chapter, and within the Hoffman said she last month, Hoffman has hopes to advocate for invested in building her central Minnesota’s livestock producers and crop farmers, but she also hopes to focus on the opportunities within 4-H, specifically the agriculture-related project areas.

“I want to promote agriculture and use my voice to educate people who may not be involved in agricultural projects such as FFA or 4-H, so they understand its importance,” she said.

Hoffman said the group will meet four times during the year to share their experiences with one another. The youth have already created a video-sharing PHOTO SUBMITTED presentation to introduce In addition to her Morrison County 4-H endeavors, Macy themselves and their Hoffman competes at open shows and is a member of ambitions.

Given the ongoing pandemic, orientation is scheduled for a virtual session April 10. It is unclear at this time what other events will take place.

“I know one of our assignments is we get to be moderators at Project Bowl competitions in Minnesota,” said Hoffman, who has competed in the event.

Project Bowl is similar to a high school knowledge bowl competition. Teams of 4-H youth study 4-H project areas and compete as to who is the most knowledgeable on the subjects that can include general livestock, horses, wildlife and more.

“We get to sit in, ask them the questions, give them the answers,” Hoffman said. “As an agricultural ambassador I have the opportunity to do that. … I think I’m doing general livestock and I’m super excited for it.”

Hoffman looks forward to potential speaking engagements and opportunities to meet those working in various agricultural sectors. The wide variety of topics and constant changes affecting the industry – technology, mental health, weather, markets – keep her intrigued, and she feels her growth in the 4-H organization has prepared her for the ambassador role.

“I want to represent more than a kid who does this – I want to represent a kid who loves this,” Hoffman said. “There’s so much opportunity in agriculture.”

Although she is unsure what sector she may pursue postgraduation, Hoffman’s excitement about all things ag makes her a natural selection as the next youth advocate for agriculture.

the Crow Wing County Large Freestyle 4-H Drill Team.

Little Rock from page 1C

The DNR will notify the public when the meeting has been rescheduled through the email system and other notification methods.

Direct questions about the project can be addressed to Mark Hauck, DNR project manager, at 320-223-7846 or mark. hauck@state.mn.us.

To sign up for email updates and follow PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER progress of the plan on the The Hoffmans’ horses, Jake (from left), Lexi and Breeze, gather around Macy Hoffman at DNR’s project webpage, her home in rural Lastrup Feb. 2. Hoffman is the daughter of Rob and Bernie. visit mndnr.gov/littlerock.

BENTON AG

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | Page 3C

Dairies need to operate as businesses

BY KRISTA KUZMA | STAFF WRITER

After a year like 2020, Gary Sipiorski wants producers to be more proactive when it comes to the business side of their dairy.

“There are things we can do as dairy producers to prevent (volatility), and working with your lender is one of them,” Sipiorski said. … “Let’s face it; dairy producers have a great deal of assets invested, and they need to be able to work with a lender to make good use of those and yet have some boundaries of what makes sense to make sure everyone is successful.”

Sipiorski, an agricultural business and financial consultant, presented “Financial knowledge your banker wants you to know” Jan. 15 during a Minnesota Milk MinneSeries webinar.

“We do need to plan,” he said about dairy farmers. “I know with cows, you get up in the morning, there are chores to do, cows to milk and other things. ... I’m going to encourage you to take a look at a longer-term plan then just what the day to day is.”

Planning is needed because of the volatility seen in 2020. The novel coronavirus pandemic caused major disruption in the food service industry, which is only back to $54 billion in sales compared to $68 billion before the start of the pandemic, Sipiorski said.

Large swings in the milk price also meant more government aid, which accounted for 42% of net farm income in

2020.

“We’re not talking gross income, we’re talking net income,” Sipiorski said. “That has been huge.

Don’t expect that in the coming year.”

Sipiorski said a plan can help a farm manage potential inflation, which could happen as the country’s debt to revenue ratio increases.

“What happens with inflation is we have too many dollars chasing too few assets,” Sipiorski said.

On a dairy, Sipiorski suggests the debt to revenue ratio should be 1-to-1.

“I encourage you to look at your balance sheet,” he said. “Look at the amount of debt and divide it by the amount of revenue, the amount of gross income you’re generating on your farm. How close are you to 1-to-1?”

On a per-cow level, Sipiorski said debt should not exceed $10,000 per cow, and from a production standpoint, Sipiorski said not to exceed $20 of debt per hundredweight of milk.

“We see some farms exceed up to 2-to-1 (debt to revenue ratio),” he said.

“The concern is paying things back. I know interest rates are low right now.

We have to be careful not to get too far out.”

In the last 20 years, Sipiorski said the country’s private debt by individuals and debt from businesses has increased severely, with each category around the $14 trillion mark.

“Is debt wrong?” Sipiorski said. “It is not. It’s OK to borrow money as

long as you do it for the right purposes.”

To stay ahead of inflation and debt, Sipiorski said a dairy must have productive assets. Every dollar used to buy an asset should generate at least $1 in return.

“Be careful when you buy assets that don’t generate you enough income,” Sipiorski said. “A good example is a dairy cow. We can buy a good dairy cow for $1,500 and that cow will generate between $4,500 and $5,000 in income. That’s a good investment.”

Sipiorski cautioned about high-priced tractor and land purchases.

“Think about the return you’re going to get on them,” he said.

According to Sipiorski, the top 30% of dairy producers in the United States earn $1.25 more per hundredweight of milk compared to the average producer.

“I’m going to encourage you to get your financials together,” he said.

“This is a good time to do it. You can’t plant corn tomorrow so you need to get all your numbers in line, not only for your accountant for your taxes, but for your knowledge and your plan and to know what your profitability is.”

That $1.25 can add up to a significant amount of money over time.

“This is real money, and we need to figure out how to capture those kinds of dollars,” Sipiorski said.

Capturing as much profit as possible is important as production in the country continues to climb, the number of cull cows going to slaughter does not add up to where it should be to keep production down and grain prices increasing.

“Work closely with

who does your nutrition work,” Sipiorski said. “It’s possible we might be short with energy on corn and soybeans (because of the increased price).”

Going into 2021, producers will be working on taxes.

“Please do not run your farm based on your 2020 income tax return,” Sipiorski said. “That’s a terrible way to look at it.”

Sipiorski said he thinks many producers manipulated the amount of taxes they paid by prepaying before the close of 2020.

“We can really distort the income on a farm by the amount of depreciation taken by doing prepayments,” he said. “Be careful of that.”

Other paperwork to take care of is an accurate year-end balance sheet.

“At the 31st of December, you need to spend a few days before taking inventories of feed and cattle,” Sipiorski said. “If you haven’t done your balance sheet, do it. Get the numbers as accurate as you can – the assets and liabilities. Compare last year’s net worth to this year’s net worth.”

Follow that by doing an accurate accrual income statement.

“This is different than your taxes, but you’re still going to use income and expense,” Sipiorski said. “For example, if you paid an extra $50,000 fee in 2020 and will use it in 2021, you have to back that out. If you do your income statement, it’s going to show you had a lot more expenses than really what you did have. You need to do the same with cattle and feed inventories.”

Talking to a lender about current low interest rates and restructuring loans is also something many farmers should be doing, Sipiorski said.

“We are in a different

year of dairy farming,” he said. “It used to be if you took care of your cattle and your crops, you made money. And I can’t think of a better place to raise a family than on a farm.

Today, we have to run the farm first with the numbers, take a look at those and then we can make decisions on how to make our farm better.”

Other benchmarks to pay attention to include net worth, working capital, return on assets, return on equity, operating expense and cost of production and asset turnover.

“Can you turn (a profit from) it in three years?”

Sipiorski said. “If not, you have too many assets that are not productive and generating enough income.”

Having a cash income project is also important.

Knowing this information is important to running a successful business; however, Sipiorski said 20% of producers have a written business plan based on true cash income statement.

“Only 20% of dairy farmers do this and it

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ought to be much higher than that,” he said.

Milk marketing might be a part of this plan.

“If you’re going to do marketing, you have to educate yourself,” Sipiorski said. “Don’t just go out and start pulling triggers on marketing milk if you don’t understand what you’re getting into.”

Sipiorski suggested farmers work with cooperatives, brokers or extension agents to find more information.

Overall, Sipiorski said it is important for dairy farmers to write down business, marketing and transition plans, and communicate often with their lender.

“Want to get a lender’s attention? Show them you’ve done a cash projection. Lenders appreciate when you sit down with them early and you bring information to them,” Sipiorski said. “Less than 10% of producers will come in with the type of business plan I’m talking about. But we’ve got to do it today based on what we’re facing in agriculture.”

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PUBLIC NOTICES

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021 | Page 5C

BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 19, 2021 The Benton County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on January 19, 2021 in the Benton County Board Room in Foley, MN with Commissioners Steve Heinen, Scott Johnson, Ed Popp, Jared Gapinski and Beth Schlangen (virtual) present. Call to order by Chair Popp was at 9:00 AM followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.

Johnson/Gapinski to approve the agenda as written.

Motion carried unanimously per roll call vote.

Jim Hovda (160 North Freedom Road, Rice) appeared under Open Forum, expressing concern with individuals having to wait outside in the cold to enter the Government Center. He stated “...Commissioners, this is 2021... most everybody takes care of business by phone...I don’t think there is any reason for people to stand outside in any weather...let’s treat our good tax paying citizens better...”

Gapinski/Heinen to approve the Consent Agenda: 1) approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of January 5, 2021 as written; 2) approve the Special Meeting Minutes of January 12, 2021 as written; 3) appoint Natalie Schmitt to a three-year term on the Benton County Extension Committee—January 1, 2021 through December 2023; 4) approve public defender contract with Bradshaw and Bryant for commitment, guardianship and conservatorship public defenders, for the period of January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021, with options to renew for three additional years, and authorize the Chair to sign; 5) accept and file Veteran Service Officer quarterly report as presented; 6) reappoint Bruce Bonebright to a three-year term on the Solid Waste Advisory Committee—January 1, 2021 through December 2023; 7) approve final plat of “Cornerstone Acres” in Watab Township, submitted by Tim and Gloria Rajkowski, and authorize the Chair to sign the final plat; 8) approve Purchase Money Security Agreement for S.C.O.R.E. Grant—City of Rice—for the purchase of two Belson outdoor eight-foot recycled park benches, four six-foot benches and four 40-gallon recycled plastic trash receptacles, and authorize the Chair to sign; and 9) approve 2020 Federal Equitable Sharing Agreement and Certification, and authorize the Chair to sign. Motion carried unanimously per roll call vote.

Roxanne Achman, Department of Development Director, presented the Department of Development 2020 Year-End Activity/Revenue Report. She stated “...we have seen an increase in permits across the board in all categories except ag buildings...and those remained fairly steady...the average permit value for house permits was $301,826...$35,233 for accessory structures...$53,934 for additions...ag buildings down slightly at an average permit value of $106,400...” Achman also provided detail on 2020 subdivisions, stating “...there are plenty of property splits occurring...”

Achman reported on the following topics: 1) Building Official Comments (the County Board renewed David Barsody’s contract for one year; the Department of Development will work to collect as many comments as possible from the public to address any concerns or complaints before they become a larger issue; every permit that the Department of Development issues will include a comment card); 2) Boundary Commission Cost Assessment (Achman commented “...the Boundary Commission was asked by us from one of the residents in an area of Little Rock Lake...where the property lines did not match up with the area they were occupying...so if anybody sold property, they could have title issues...the county has the

ability to move forward with this platting process and assess this cost back to those property owners... ultimately, it gives them a more saleable lot...we are looking at approximately $67,000 spread across 22 lots and the right-ofway for Watab Township...”); and 3) GeoPermits (will be extremely beneficial to the county).

Heather Bondhus from the Auditor-Treasurer’s Office explained that their office has received a request for abatement of late fees, penalties, and interest on 26 lots owned

by Cove Development Company, who is in the process of recording a plat to combine the smaller lots into larger lots in hopes of making them more marketable. She stated that, according to MN Statutes, “...except as provided... no reduction or abatement may be granted on the basis of providing an incentive for economic development or redevelopment”. Bondhus reported that, as of December 2020, when the request was received, the taxes on the 26 lots was $38,564 and the late fees, penalties, and interest were $11,327.51; Jim Brownson stated that Cove Development Company would be willing to pay the taxes in exchange for abatement of the other fees. Bondhus noted that the property taxes on those 26 lots have not been paid since 2018; as of January 2021, Cove Development Company owes a total of $94,791.32 on all of its lots. She stated that MN Statutes do not allow for the abatement as requested

by Mr. Brownson (an economic abatement would have to be approved in advance). Gapinski inquired of setting up a payment plan with Brownson. Bondhus stated “...if he wants to combine these lots, he must get current in payment...we would be willing to accept payments, but we are not able to authorize them to combine the lots and record a plat...” Achman added “...he could do several final plats...” Several Board members stated the fact that MN Statutes dictate what actions the County Board is able to take. Schlangen inquired as to past and current ownership of the property; she also inquired of the possibility of assessing this property at a lower tax rate (it was noted that this would require rezoning of the property). Gapinski commented “...this is out of our hands with the state statutes, but if we could have the county work with Cove Development the best way they can to stay within statute, but yet move it along...maybe break this up into a smaller piece...” No action taken at this time.

The Regular County Board meeting was recessed at 9:30 AM to conduct a Human Services Board meeting.

The Regular County Board meeting was reconvened at 9:39 AM. Board members reported on recent meetings they attend on behalf of the county.

Johnson/Gapinski to set Committees of the Whole: January 28, BEP Annual Meeting; February 2, Boundary Commission/DMV Issues, County Attorney education for new County Board members; February 8/May 3/August 2/ November 1, Human Services; February 11, Career Solutions Annual Workforce Development Highlights; March 2, County Board recognition of Employee Years of Service Milestones; March 4, County Board Goal-Setting Session; and April 6/October 5, County Board/ Employee Forums.

Motion carried unanimously per roll call vote.

Johnson/Heinen to adjourn at 10:10 AM. Motion carried unanimously per roll call vote.

Edward D. Popp, Chair Benton County Board of Commissioners ATTEST: Montgomery Headley Benton County Administrator R-5-1B

PROBATE NOTICE STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF BENTON DISTRICT COURT SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE DIVISION Court File No: 05-PR-21-103

by the Decedent.

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.

Dated: January 27, 2021 /s/ Cheryl Woehler Registrar Dated: January 27, 2021

NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In Re: Estate of DAVID N. ROSENOW, Decedent.

Notice is given that an Application for Informal Probate of Will and for Informal Appointment of Personal Representative was filed with the Registrar, along with a Will dated March 10, 2020. The Registrar accepted the application and informally appointed KATHLEEN V. ROSENOW, whose address

is 16137 Dysprosium Street NW, Ramsey, MN 55303, to serve as the personal representative of the Decedent’s estate.

Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Any objection to the appointment of the personal representative must be filed with the Court, and any properly filed objection will be heard by the Court after notice is provided to interested persons of the date of hearing on the objection.

Unless objections are filed, and unless the Court orders otherwise, the personal representative has the full power to administer the estate, including, after thirty (30) days from the issuance of letters testamentary, the power to sell, encumber, lease, or distribute any interest in real estate owned

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Page 6C | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021| SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

BREAK CROSSWORD

Virtual Crop Management Input Seminar Presentations cover marketing for area regions The University of Minnesota specialist.

Extension announced its Virtual Crop – What’s Trending for Herbicide Management Input Seminar for the central Traits Minnesota Corn and Soybean. and east central Minnesota regions last Presented by Dave Nicolai, UMN week. These presentations will cover key Extension crops educator. topics focused on crop marketing and – Small Grains Issues. Presented by management issues facing growers. This Jochum Wiersma, UMN Extension small event will run from 8:30 a.m. to noon grains educator.

Feb. 26. Register at https://z.umn.edu/ – What is Going on with Forages for crops2021. In order to receive the Zoom 2021? Presented by Jared Goplen, UMN University of link, you must register for the event.

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by Nathan Drewitz The program topics are: Each presentation will be 30 minutes – Grain Marketing Tips. Presented in length with time for questions.

by Edward Usset, grain marketing economist for the For more information or to register, contact Rod Center for Farm Financial Management.

Greder at 320-591-1662 or gred0014@umn.edu; or – Insect and Disease Issues for 2021. Presented Nathan Drewitz at 608-515-4414 or ndrewitz@umn.

by Bruce Potter, UMN Extension integrated pest edu. management educator.

To receive future events, educational programming – Nutrient Management and Environmental and agronomic updates by email, signup at z.umn.

Stewardship Given Current Conditions. Presented edu/tricountysignup.

by Fabian Fernandez, UMN nutrient management

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ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has issued updated maps that will help farmers across the state comply with the Groundwater Protection Rule.

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Extension to host Beef Calving Essentials webinar series ST. CLOUD – The University of Minnesota Extension is excited to host a six-part webinar series titled “Beef Calving Essentials.”

The Zoom meetings will take place 8-9 p.m.

Mondays and Thursdays in February. The series will focus on considerations to prepare for calving on beef cattle operations.

Farmers, 4-H’ers, ag business professionals who work with farmers and those interested in beef cows are invited to attend.

Feb. 8 – Calving Kits: Tools to be prepared for calving. Featuring Troy Salzer, St. Louis County Extension educator.

Feb. 11 – Calving Record Keeping.

Featuring Stacey Caughey, Beef Quality Assurance Program associate and Tarah Young, Carlton County Extension educator.

Feb. 15 – Calving Barn Preparation and Sanitation.

Featuring Melissa Runck, Pipestone and Murray counties Extension educator and Brenda Miller, Todd County Extension educator.

Feb. 18 – Calving Trouble: When to Help

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Featuring Dr. Joe Armstrong DVM, cattle production systems extension educator.

Feb. 22 – Helping Newborn Calves: Colostrum Needs, Teaching Calves to Nurse and the Grafting Process.

Featuring Eric Mousel, cow calf management Extension educator and Dana Adams, Extension educator of Stearns, Benton and Morrison counties.

Feb. 25 – Management of Calf Scours. Featuring Dr. Tony Dank, United States Department of Agriculture veterinarian.

Registration is required by 5 p.m. the day before the event. Register at z.umn. edu/calvingseries. A Zoom link will be provided following the close of registration.

Register once for all subsequent webinars.

If you are unable to attend the live sessions, you will receive the recordings for all the sessions via email at the end of the series.

For questions, contact Brenda Miller at nels4220@umn.edu or adam1744@umn.edu or call the Stearns County office at 320-255-6169, Ext. 3.

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ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture invites anyone interested in hemp and hemp production to its 2021 Industrial Hemp Forum.

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For more information on the 2021 Industrial Hemp Forum and to register, visit mda.state. mn.us/hempforum.

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