Sauk Rapids Herald - January 16 edition

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Vol. 166, No. 41

Sauk Rapids Community prepares woman pens new book to go back to school Students, parents weigh in on decision to return to in-person learning

Debut novel ‘Heaven’s Hunter’ weaves religion, n soft science-fiction

BY ELLARRY PRENTICE | STAFF WRITER

“I keep wondering if I’ll even get to wear it at all.”

BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – The new w year is just getting started, but u a Jan. 2 delivery was already a high spot of 2021 for writer Maa rie Keiser. Her story was printed, d bound and delivered to her home m in Sauk Rapids, culminating her e longtime dream of becoming an author.

Keiser, 31, released her dee but novel, “Heaven’s Hunter,” , weaving Catholic religion andd soft science-fiction with celestial a l suspense. The book is available for purchase on Amazon.

“It’s just exciting to see my name on a book cover,” Keiser e said. “I hope people enjoy it.”

Her 229-page, independentt ly-published work of fiction takes e place in the Milky Way galaxy. y “Heaven’s Hunter” is the story of o Randall Yung, a top detective for o the Galactic Fleet.

“Randall is very good at what a he does,” reads a synopsis of the h book. “So good, in fact, that he’s ’ getting a little bored. But everyy t thing changes when Randall gets h the assignment to hunt down the perpetrator of a particularly darr ing attack on a Fleet ship – an att tack that killed his best friend.

Keiser page 4

– Ashley Konietzko, Sauk Rapids-Rice High School senior, of her prom dress

SAUK RAPIDS – As Sauk Rapids-Rice schools prepare to welcome pre-kindergarten through grade 12 students back for in-person learning, the district is readying its staff and school bus drivers.

Pre-kindergarten through grade 5 students will return to full-time in-person learning Tuesday, Jan. 19. Grades 6-12 will return, temporarily, to a hybrid learning model – a rotation between classes in the school buildings and online classes off campus – starting Tuesday, Jan. 19, as they transition, for the first time this school year, to full-time in-person learning Monday, Feb. 1.

Back to school page 5 PHOTO SUBMITTED

Yet to be worn, Sauk Rapids-Rice senior Ashley Konietzko’s prom dress hangs in her closet Jan. 12 in Sauk Rapids. Konietzko bought the dress last year for her junior prom but did not wear it because prom was modified to a virtual event; she worries she might not be able to wear the dress this year, either.

Recreating

masterpieces

Watts’ wooden boat restorations are works of art

BY DIANE LEUKAM | STAFF WRITER

RICE – Ask Dave Watts what his favorite aspect of restoring vintage wooden boats is and his answer is simple: He is recreating masterpieces. He and his crew of four which includes his son, Ben, at Little Rock Boat Works in Rice, take great pride in their workmanship while bringing one-of-a-kind treasures back to their original beauty – or better.

Watts page 3 PHOTO BY DIANE LEUKAM

Dave Watts is owner of Little Rock Boat Works in Rice, where he and his crew restore one-of-a-kind vintage wooden boats. The boat he leans on is the Abby B, one of two they are currently working on, that was designed in 1930 by naval architect George Crouch for an heir of the Dodge Brothers.

PUBLIC NOTICES • Sauk Rapids-Rice Advertisement for Bids - pg. 12 • City of Sauk Rapids Reg. Minutes, Dec. 14, 2020 - pg. 13

OBITUARIES • Harold A. Jesh

ST R

Publications The newspaper of today is the history of tomorrow.

NEWS

Page 2 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Sauk Rapids buildings open for business Jan. 19 Rental reservations remain postponed

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

dial-back pause that was initiated Nov. 20, 2020.

Gov. Tim Walz has since lifted some restrictions of that period, and the city’s personnel and finance committee and administration feel comfortable opening to the community. “I think if we can do it safely, let’s reopen,� said council member Jason Ellering when asked his opinion on the matter.

Mayor Kurt Hunstiger and council members Nick Sauer, Dottie Seamans and Ellen Thronson agreed and gave their

SAUK RAPIDS – After a brief discussion at the Sauk Rapids City Council meeting Jan. 11, the city will reopen its buildings to the public Tuesday, Jan. 19. City buildings are closed Monday, Jan. 18, in observance of the federal holiday, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The council had agreed to shutter the facilities, with staff working from the office or at home, during the state’s

consensus at Monday’s meeting.

Other area cities, such as Rice and Waite Park, have also opened their facilities. Prior to the decision, Seamans asked city administrator Ross Olson if he had received feedback from the community about the building closure. “The reality is we have visited as department heads on if we have received any negative feedback and, to my knowledge, we have not,�

Olson said.

Olson said people have accessed the city online, by phone and through email during the closure.

The council allowed Olson to decide the day of the reopening, so Ol-

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son could visit with staff and work out logistics of employees returning to the facilities. The city is aware some families need time to prepare for such transitions as schools remain in various learning models and childcare may or may not be available.

Olson assured the council precautions will remain in place. “We will, as many other cities around here, continue to practice safe social distancing here,�

Olson said. “We currently won’t be renting out the community room or other city facilities, but the door will be open. We have improved our lobby areas with glass to keep our staff safe, to keep our customers safe, and we’ll continue to do whatever needs to be done to keep our staff and guests safe.�

Rental reservations for city buildings continue to be on hold. Typically, the city begins taking reservations the first day of business in January each year. However, with uncertainties of the coronavirus pandemic, the city found it best to refrain from collecting deposits or reservations from people.

The council also unanimously approved a provision allowing the city to extend COVID-19 paid leave through March 31.

In spring 2020, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act required employers to provide special paid leave and expanded paid family and medical leave for circumstances surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.

The requirement expired Dec. 31, 2020, but em-

PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER

Sauk Rapids City Council member Dottie Seamans recites her oath as city administrator Ross Olson delivers the oath of office Jan. 11 at Sauk Rapids City Hall. Seamans began her first elected term on the council after being appointed in March 2019 to the role.

ployers were given the option to voluntarily extend the leave, according to city attorney Adam Ripple, of Rinke Noonan Attorneys at Law. Both the FFCRA and the voluntary extension, which was approved through the Consolidated Appropriations Act, allows employers to take a payroll tax credit for this leave; however, the city, as with all units of government, is not eligible for this credit and the cost of providing this leave is a city expense.

Nonetheless, those employees who have not yet exhausted their pandemic-related leave are allowed compensation should they miss work for one of six reasons: they are subject to quarantine through a government order, have been advised by a healthcare provider to self-quarantine, are experiencing symptoms, are caring for an individual who is quarantined or whose daycare or school is closed due to the pandemic, or is experiencing a similar condition.

Amounts and lengths of pay are determined by the reason for the leave.

In other council news: – Seamans and Sauer took the oath of office for another term. Sauer will begin his third term on the council, and Seamans, who was appointed to her position in March 2019, will begin her first elected term. Sauk Rapids City Council members serve four-year terms. – Mayor Kurt Hunstiger called for a moment of silence in council chambers as a tribute to Harold Jesh, former mayor and Sauk Rapids resident, who passed away Dec. 31, 2020.

According to Hunstiger, Jesh was chosen at the Sauk Rapids Citizen of the Year in 1998, chaired the planning commissioner from 1986-91, was a council member from 1998-2000 and mayor 2000-04. Jesh also was a board member on the Metropolitan Transit Commission and served on the Sauk Rapids Fire Department for 23 years. “I can say, and we all know this, he contributed to many other community projects also, including the ice arena,� Hunstiger said during the mayor’s comments portion of the meeting. “So, I just wanted to take a minute to remember Harold this evening.�

Jesh was residing in Maple Grove with his wife, Annette, at the time of his death. He was 77. – Awarded a contract in the amount of $7,350 to Dirtworks 2000 Inc. for tree clearing along the future County Road 1 trail project. A trail is planned for the east side of the roadway from County Road 3 to Osauka Road, with construction commencing in summer 2021.

City administrator Ross Olson (left) delivers the oath of Tree removal will need to office to Sauk Rapids City Council member Nick Sauer be completed by March Jan. 11 at city hall in Sauk Rapids. Sauer joined the council 31. in 2013 and began his third four-year term.

NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | Page 3

Watts

and my dad hauled it home in the trunk of his car,” Watts said. “I worked on it a little bit, and I’d go up and down the Mississippi with it.

I would see these cabin cruisers that were all wood on the Mississippi and I was just enamored with them; they were phenomenal works of art.”

Being from a very blue-collar family, he never thought he would have anything like them.

“I remember one time at the marina in La Crosse, it was called Pettibone Yacht Club,” he said. “I had my little 6-foot boat there, and I was walking the docks looking at these yachts.

One man must have seen how I admired them and he called me over, took me on board and showed me all through his boat.

I was maybe 15 or 16. I still remember all these years later, what that man did for me.”

After being drafted and serving on a combat mission as a field radio operator in Vietnam, Watts went to college for criminal justice and worked at the reformatory in St. Cloud.

“One day, I looked in the paper and saw a onebedroom lake house for sale with a guest house on Little Rock Lake,” he said. “Payments were

from front

with a colorful history is the 1928-29 42-foot Belle Isle. Its entire life was spent on Lake St. Clair between Lake Huron and Lake Erie. It was built specifically for running illegal alcohol from Canada to the United States during the Prohibition.

One might suspect that sourcing parts for one-of-a-kind boats can be challenging; in fact, it is the most difficult part of Watts’ work. For instance, just one part, an original glass globe on the Abby B, cost him $1,000. It has never been reproduced, but he was able to find one in Michigan. Sourcing quality wood has also become more difficult as the years have gone by.

“When these (the Dodges) were made, there were huge stacks of wood the size of this building, with many stacks at each boat manufacturer and now, to get quality patterned grain wood of a particular species is about impossible,” Watts said.

Watts keeps an extensive inventory of parts that he has found over the years on hand.

There is a large collection of cruiser search lights and many other cabin cruiser parts, along with parts for other boats such as runabouts, the

core of the business. All of his sourcing is done by phone, and through people he knows from all around the United States.

“I know a lot of people around the country,” Watts said. “Unfortunately, I’m 68 and a lot of the men I’ve done business with are no longer alive, and certain items we need for these boats are no longer produced in this country.”

He also keeps his business local whenever possible. Rapids Upholstery does all upholstery work, with much research going into appropriate grain patterns and coloring; other businesses include Rice Blacksmith Saw and Machine, Northside Welding, East Side Glass, EMF, Inc., and farther away, B & L Plating in Warren, Michigan.

Watts is nearThe elaborate ing retirement chrome gauge from the busipanel on the Abby ness that has B features a sunburst, just one of thousands of kept him busy for so long. He parts Watts must source from throughout the thinks back to nation. the beginning of his boat obsession. He grew up in Austin, and his parents kept a travel trailer in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He first boat was a 6-foot with a sheet metal bottom and pine sides.

“I bought it for $15

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On Dec. 7, Watts talked about the art of boat restoration and the business that has been his full-time work since 1986. Walking through the facility just outside side of town, the sights, ts, PHOTOS BY sounds and smellss DIANE LEUKAM The Abby B is a 1930 of work and wood Dodge 21 1/2 foot, Hull filled the air.

No. 2, runabout. Each Each boat that boat in the shop can comes into the take three years from shop can take up start to finish. to three years to rebuild. They are commwere pletely disassembled bled e x and put back together in i tremely a process that creates a successful and were boat with longevity far building parts for Ford outlasting the original. and government conThey were first built to tracts. Horace Junior, an last six to eight years; heir, went through his after Watts is done with money real quick. He them, they will be trea- liked boats.” sures that last generaThe two boats were tions. By the time they designed for Horace Juare finished, the own- nior by naval architect ers will have at least George Crouch. Each $300,000 into each boat. boat had a figurehead on “Originally, they the front; the Abby B’s is were mass produced in a sea nymph. The Emma a factory,” Watts said. S, Hull No. 83, is anoth“They were not perfect er 1930 Dodge and Aband there is no such by’s twin; both are now thing as a perfect resto- owned by the same cliration, but we try.” ent who has named them In one area of the after his twin grandshop, Wayne Carriveau daughters. worked on a shiny, beauWatts has had nutiful boat. He paused to merous clients, but basiexplain what he was do- cally, there are two that ing. keep him booked with “I am on my third work for years in adstage of buffing, taking vance. Watts will find out all the fine scratches an unusual boat, someand everything,” Car- thing a little out of the riveau said. “We have ordinary. If they like the about 20 coats of var- boat, they purchase it nish on here.” with plans of restoration.

Nearby, Dave Nel- Over the course of the son worked on filing a projects, they commuwindow frame. It must nicate often with Watts, be perfect before being and take great interest in chromed and placed on the work. a boat.

“I think they enjoy No two boats are ex- the restoration process actly the same, but there as much if not more than are currently two that the finished project,” are as close as they get. Watts said.

Watts walked over to the Many boats have Abby B. She has been in gone through the shops the shop for two-and-a- (the original shop is lohalf years. She is sided cated nearby and is still with planking of African used as well) over the Mahogany, a tropical years. Most are pre-war, wood with natural oils in other words, built that retard rot and bacte- before WWII, up unria, and built back with til 1940. There are also a tightness of the hull to many Chris Craft boats. ensure the vessel is wa“We just finished a terproof. Caulking was 1961 31-foot Chris Craft added to fill any holes, Roamer with extensive followed by sanding and restoration,” Watts said. many layers of varnish. “We thought it would Like every boat, the take five or six weeks Abby B has a story. She and it took us six months is a 1930 Dodge 21 1/2 working seven days a ft. Hull No. 2, the oldest week.”

21 1/2 foot known to exWatts lists off others ist. they are currently work“These are amazing ing on, like a 1954 36boats, extremely elabo- foot Chris Craft; 1940 rate,” Watts said. “The 25-foot Chris Craft; Dodge brothers, Horace 1940 23-foot Chris Craft and John Dodge, became barrel-back, triple cockill and both died within pit; and a 1936 28-foot a month, probably from Gar Wood sporting a the Spanish Flu. They Scripps V-12. One boat

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less than a one-bedroom apartment in St. Cloud, so I bought it and a short time later, started dragging home wooden boats and working on them.”

He met his wife, Elaine, they married in 1988 and the two spent many years boating on Lake Superior in their own cabin cruiser. When Ben came along, they graduated to a larger cabin cruiser.

After all these years, Watts’ love for wooden boats has not waned. He and Elaine would like to retire to Leech Lake, where he would set up a small shop and work four hours a day, four days a week.

“I still like working on boats, it’s the business end; I’ve had enough of it,” he said.

He can take pride in a lifetime of work, recreating masterpieces. His work has been noticed at shows around the country and even internationally. Typically, a Little Rock Boat will take best of show. While he is proud of the accolades, they are not what drives him. Ultimately, his clients’ satisfaction is the end goal.

“Awards are yesterday’s news,” Watts said.

“The clients appreciate the boat for what it is and not what it collects.”

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OBITUARY/NEWS

Page 4 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD PHOTO SUBMITTED

Harold A. Jesh

Marie Keiser, of Sauk Rapids, holds her debut novel, “Heaven’s Hunter,” Jan. 4. Keiser published her book which included the Catholic religion with soft-science fiction through Amazon.

Keiser

from front

The closer Randall gets to the killer, the more he comes to doubt things he always believed and to make decisions he would never have expected.”

Keiser grew up in a small town in northeast Kansas, where she learned to love adventure stories and the Catholic faith. Her storyline incorporates both as the protagonist finds himself grappling with suspected evil and questioning his former disdain for the church.

“It’s also a story about someone finding faith through unusual circumstances,” Keiser said.

An avid reader, Keiser started writing stories and plays at age 10.

Her love for the written word accompanied her into adulthood. She started writing “Heaven’s Hunter” about eight years ago.

“I like being able to get the thoughts in my head onto a page,” Keiser said. “I find that very satisfying.”

Keiser moved to Minnesota six and a half years ago when she took a teaching job at a private school in St. Cloud. She met and married her husband, Gerard, a fellow teacher, and is now a stay-at-home mom of two toddlers, Erika and Maximilian.

A year and a half ago, after asking her husband to read her first draft of “Heaven’s Hunter,” Keiser rewrote the novel based on some of his suggestions. She transposed her writing perspective from thirdperson to first-person, delving into the mind of her main character so readers could get up close and personal. She tells the story from Yung’s view, using “I” instead of “he,” to help put readers inside the detective’s head, privy to his thoughts, actions, emotions and experiences.

While Keiser loves to power-on her laptop, play music and zone out the world while she writes, some of the rewriting of “Heaven’s Hunter” took place in the still of night, with a little child in her arms.

Keiser loves crafting fiction – developing characters and devising situations to put them in as the storyline carves its own path. Writing fiction helps her to gain perspective and experience the world vicariously. As she immerses herself into the life of her characters, she experiences their points of view, their innermost thoughts.

“You get to think about human nature … explore ideas about human nature and people,” she said.

Fantasy science-fiction is particularly fun, Keiser said, because writers can make up the rules.

The religious dynamic, Keiser said, helped ensure “Heaven’s Hunter” was not just another supposed-to-be thriller with two-dimensional characters. Incorporating faith helped to establish her character’s conscience and to provide depth.

Her book showed Keiser that fiction can take on a life of its own, especially when it comes to character development.

“The character I started writing about didn’t even make it into the final draft,” she said.

Friends helped Keiser edit her second draft of “Heaven’s Hunter,” which she completed about six weeks ago, before sending the manuscript to Amazon’s publishing company, Kindle Direct.

Once pandemic restrictions are lifted, Keiser hopes to promote her book through book signings and other events.

Literature was one of Keiser’s favorite subjects to teach middle school students. She enjoys reading historical fiction, science fiction and fantasy, as well as some non-fiction.

Now that “Heaven’s Hunter” is on the shelf, “I kind of missing having that story in my head,” Keiser said.

Fortunately, she has some ideas in mind for other writing projects.

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

Age 77, of Maple Grove (formerly of Sauk Rapids), passed away Dec. 31, 2020.

A Mass of Christian Burial was Jan. 7 at the Church of St. Vincent de Paul, 9100 93rd.

Ave. N., Brooklyn Park with godchild the Rev. Eric Seitz and his father Deacon Ben Seitz presiding. Burial was at St. Vincent de Paul Cemetery.

Arrangements by EvansNordby Funeral Home, Osseo.

Harold was born Sept. 30, 1943, in Albany, to Roman and Dora (Winter) Jesh. He graduated from St. Cloud State University with a bachelor’s degree in economics and geography. He married Annette Behnen July 20, 1968, in St Andrew’s Church, Greenwald.

Harold’s first job was with the St. Paul Housing Authority as a cartographer, which developed into a passion for selling and securing financing for commercial and residential housing projects throughout Minnesota. After working for several companies in St. Cloud, he started his own housing consulting business.

The company focused on helping cities in greater Minnesota to build much needed affordable and market-rate apartments, often utilizing tax increment financing. He was skilled at building relationships, managing projects from start to finish and adapting as needed to get the job done.

His adaptability was important later in life when he learned to cope with Parkinson’s Disease and continue to live life to the fullest.

Harold was very active in Sauk Rapids and was selected the Sauk Rapids Citizen of the Year in 1998; volunteered to write the first City of Sauk Rapids Comprehensive Plan 1984-89; chairman of the Sauk Rapids Planning Commission 1986-91, served on the Sauk Rapids City Council 19982000; Sauk Rapids Mayor 2000-04 and on the St. Cloud Metropolitan Transit Commission 2000-04. Harold helped secure federal funding for the new Sauk Rapids bridge during his time on the city council and his term as mayor. He was recognized for contributing to a project that was a winner of one of the Seven Wonders of Engineering

Harold A. Jesh

Awards in Minnesota.

Harold’s community involvement included 23 years as a volunteer firefighter on the Sauk Rapids Volunteer Fire Department, serving as secretary for 14 years; Firefighter of the Year in 1979 and 1992; board of trustees for the Sauk Rapids Fire Department Relief Association 1987-98; chairperson of the 1996 Minnesota State Firefighter’s Conference. After retiring, Harold started Engine Company No. 2 for the retired firefighters to continue to support each other and the community. The group’s first project was to find, purchase and restore Sauk Rapids’ first fire truck from 1920.

Harold was an active member of Sacred Heart Church where he served on the parish council and as president of the Home and School Association; served on the St. Cloud Cathedral High School Board of Trustees 1986-91, chair-1988; St. Cloud Cathedral Athletic Association President and Board Member and St. Cloud State University Alumni Board of Directors.

Harold had a tenacity to get things done and was instrumental in bringing a second sheet of ice for hockey to the St. Cloud Metro area in Sauk Rapids in 1985. As fundraising chair, he secured Glen Sonmor, Coach of the Minnesota North Stars, as the honorary fundraising chairman. Fundraising began in 1981 and ground was broken on the building in 1984 after meeting the fundraising goal of $300,000, with its first full season of operation in 1985.

Harold’s volunteer and community involvement were driven by his great love of his family. He stepped up when asked and initiated when he saw a need. He had a tireless work ethic, endless positive attitude and was an incredible role model to his children. He was always there

to cheer them on and continued that with his grandchildren, attending as many of their activities as he could.

Harold enjoyed boating, fishing, biking, camping and working around the house. He was a skilled handyman and was known for his meticulously clean garage and cars. He had an amazing memory to the end and despite his struggle to communicate due to his illness, was the source of detailed memories. He enjoyed spending time with the grandkids including picnics at the park, “Fun Fridays” with his grandsons, and making them his special French toast. He had a generous heart and was always willing to help, often dropping what he was doing to be there for his children. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend, and he will be dearly missed.

Harold is survived by his loving wife and dedicated caregiver Annette, children Peter (Theresa) Jesh and Heidi (Max) Jesh Baumgartner; grandchildren, Ariana, Alaina and Andrea Jesh, Grant and Maxwell Kayl, Luke and Logan Baumgartner, Rachel and John Kayl; brothers-in-law Steve and Philip Behnen; nieces, nephews and many friends.

Preceded in death by parents, Roman and Dora Jesh; sisters, Doris Jesh, Rita Seitz, and Irene Gleason; brother, Ray Jesh; brothers-in-law, Ben Seitz and Larry Gleason, Toby Behnen; sisters-in-law, Alice Behnen, Donna Jesh and Roxanne Behnen.

Special thanks to caregivers, nephew, Mike Seitz and brotherin-law Steve Behnen. Harold enjoyed the time with them immensely, especially the 7 a.m. sausage biscuits, weekly breakfasts on Saturday and concerts in the park. Their support enabled Annette to continue serving the St. Cloud community at the St. Cloud Hospital as the parish health ministries program coordinator working with Faith Community Nurses.

Those who wish to remember Harold in a special way may make gifts to things he was passionate about: Sauk Rapids Engine Co. No. 2 and the Poor Clares Monastery in Sauk Rapids.

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NEWS

Back to School from front

Sauk Rapids-Rice students have been learning remotely district-wide since November.

The school board’s Jan. 7 decision to switch to in-person learning followed a substantial decrease in COVID-19 cases in Benton County and a significant decrease in COVID-19-related absences among staff and students.

School board members, along with administrators, agreed they want students in the classroom again.

“It’s best to get our kids back,” Superintendent Bradley Bergstrom said.

Students and parents are also preparing for the learning model transition.

“I definitely have mixed feelings about going back to school,” said Bailee Bonebright, a senior at Sauk RapidsRice High School.

Bonebright is excited to be back in the high school building with her friends and peers.

She also looks forward to a closer connection with sports and activities again.

Still, the coronavirus pandemic makes the school experience challenging, Bonebright noted.

“It’s a little sad with all of the rules and regulations we now have due to COVID-19,” she said.

Those rules include wearing a mask even while playing sports.

Nonetheless, Bonebright feels the school board made the right choice.

“I still agree with the decision to reopen schools,” she said. “I have come to the conclusion that I personally learn better when we are learning inperson rather than distance.”

Bonebright explained that COVID-19 has, inadvertently, demonstrated an important lesson.

“The online (learning) experience has taught us all to not take for granted all of the fun events and milestones we have, not only in school but in life,” she said.

Senior Eli Moilanen has some trepidation about the shift to in-person learning, as students and staff continue to be at risk of contracting COVID-19, including a possible new variant of the virus.

“I’m not really looking forward to going back to school because at home we have more freedom,” Moilanen said. “Also, I don’t believe we should even go hybrid with the numbers that we have.”

Senior Ashley Konietzko is excited to be back in the school buildings. She said she looks forward to being able to dress up for her day instead of wearing sweatpants or leggings and a sweatshirt at home.

“I don’t normally get to wear nicer clothes because, well, I’m not going out as much right now,” she said.

Konietzko is excited to see her friends, classmates and

teachers in person. With most events still on pause, she said that is about the only thing she has to look forward to.

“I get to see my friends in person instead of on screen, and I feel like I learn better in person than on Zoom because I’m forced to focus more,” she said.

Learning from home, with siblings and other distractions, has been challenging for Konietzko.

“Being at school is a much better learning environment for me, and I retain more information than I do over Zoom,” she said.

While Konietzko believes resuming in-person learning is a step in the right direction, she is nervous about what the rest of the year will look like for the senior class.

“I really hope that vaccines work and COVID-19 dies down by spring because I would love to have a prom and a graduation,” she said. “It sucks to work so hard for this long to just go to school and not get to experience the fun parts of my senior year.”

Konietzko’s prom dress, which she was not able to wear last spring due to COVID-19, still hangs in her closet.

“I keep wondering if I’ll even get to wear it at all,” she said.

Konietzko’s pandemic sentiment echoed Bonebright’s.

“Whatever ends up happening with COVID-19 in the next couple of months, I think a big lesson that the class of 2021 has learned is to not take anything for granted,” she said.

As of Jan. 12, Benton County had 78 active COVID-19 cases and a daily case count of nine. The school district had eight active student cases and three active employee cases.

COVID-19-related absences, the district’s greatest source of concern, were 57 among students and 19 among employees, down significantly from a couple months ago. Since the switch to district-wide distance learning, however, school officials said there has been underreporting of COVID-19-related absences.

Marsha Riendeau, mom of a Sauk Rapids-Rice senior and freshman, agrees with the school board’s decision to return to in-person learning. She feels the significant drop in cases warrants a return to the buildings.

“I’m more concerned with keeping them home,” said Riendeau, who explained that her children struggled to adjust to distance learning. “I think they learn better at school.”

Riendeau noted that distance learning has impacted students’ mental health. Since the pandemic, her children have had significantly less social interaction and have had a hard time asking teachers questions through a screen, she said.

“I think they need structure,” Riendeau said. “They need to be with people their own age. Just be in a different environment than home.”

One distance-learning improvement Riendeau appreci-

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | Page 5

ates is that students are now learning at scheduled times versus at their leisure when the learning model was first implemented.

“They won’t do their work without (a schedule),” she said.

Another distance-learning challenge for the Riendeau family is having three people doing different work under the same roof. Riendeau is also working from home.

Riendeau knows it will take time to adjust to in-person learning, especially for secondary students, who are now accustomed to distance learning, having done it either full- or part-time all school year.

One of the challenges for secondary students, Riendeau said, will be navigating a new set of classrooms with the trimester change.

“It’s like starting the first day all over again because they’ve been out of school so long,” she said.

Megan Rogholt said her kids have done well academically as distance learners, though they have missed the social aspect of attending inperson. Rogholt is the mom of a sophomore and a sixth-grade student.

“They’ve missed seeing their friends and that personal interaction,” she said.

Both Megan and her husband, Phil, have been able to work from home, which has been beneficial for their children, but she recognizes that arrangement is not possible for many families.

Rogholt supports the lessrestrictive learning model, but as she prepares for her daughter and son to walk back in the school buildings, she will remain vigilant.

“I’m always going to be concerned about my children’s health,” she said.

She has faith school leaders will do the same.

“I trust the district, and I trust they’re making the best decision for our kids,” Rogholt said. “I trust they’re going to continue looking at those (COVID-19 case) numbers.”

Rogholt acknowledged that having her children home, where she knows they are safe, has placated worry, but she is willing to send them to the school buildings.

“I want them to have that social experience too,” she said.

One of Rogholt’s concerns about in-person learning models is potential for staffing shortages due to COVID-19-related absences. During distance learning, their teachers have been consistent, but she worries that could change with another spike in absences. She said the family will closely monitor the district’s COVID-19 data and would revert to distance learning if their children’s health is in jeopardy.

Kindergarten through grade 12 families who are not comfortable with in-person learning may continue to do distance learning through the current school year. The district calls this option Family Choice.

More back-to-school information Preparedness Transportation preparedness is a top priority for Bergstrom, who is calling on extra resources to ensure students are boarding the correct bus and on time, and to ensure students who miss the bus or board the wrong bus be transported home safely.

Bergstrom told the school board he is especially concerned about younger students, who may need some help re-adjusting to school bus transport.

Bergstrom has also called on extra resources to support school bus drivers. He said bus drivers are driving their routes to get reacclimated.

Reminders will also go to families regarding children’s bus numbers and pick-up/drop-off times.

The district will soon resume use of My Stop, a web-based application offering parents and students secure access to live school bus GPS information. Families can use the app to view the current locations of their assigned school bus and the estimated time of arrival at their bus stop.

Holly Schoenherr, director of human resources, said the goal is for staff to return to their classrooms before Jan. 19 and Feb. 1 to prepare for the re-integration to distance learning.

Schoenherr had previously reported that COVID-19-related absences were being underreported during distance learning.

Once staff return to the buildings, she expects COVID-19 reporting to return to its previous level based on a renewed sense of urgency.

Bergstrom said school provides students with vital social and emotional support. Elementary students, he said, especially need to return to in-person instruction, as it has been difficult to maintain interest levels through a screen, particularly for 5-year-olds.

District’s quarantine guidance generally will not change The Minnesota Department of Health has adopted updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that includes options for shorter, 10-day or seven-day COVID-19 quarantine periods, under certain conditions. Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools, however, intends to follow the previously recommended 14-day quarantine period – in most cases.

“It’s going to lead to confusion for families and staff and our kids,” Bergstrom said of specific conditions of the new CDC guidance that would need to be met.

Bergstrom feels the 14-day guidance is the safest option for school-age children and therefore recommended against changing the district’s guidelines.

Bergstrom recommends sticking with 14-day quarantines for three reasons. Shortening from 14 days is not recommended for people with household exposure. Most students are going to have household exposure and will find it difficult to quarantine separately under one roof, he said. Household exposures, the health department has indicated, have a particularly high risk of transmission.

Shortened quarantine periods, Bergstrom fears, would make contract tracing a “nightmare.”

The district will consider the 10- or seven-day quarantine period, Bergstrom said, “when it makes sense,” such as cases where students have minimal household exposure.

The district does not require staff to quarantine if they have traveled outside the area, because they have just as high of a risk contracting the virus here than anywhere, Schoenherr said.

Staff are required to quarantine only if they have been on a cruise ship. Staff and students should continue to report symptoms, known exposures and positive tests.

Saliva tests for staff When the district resumes in-person learning, the state will provide, at no charge, COVID-19 saliva tests for staff, Bergstrom reported. Testing is not required but will be available every two weeks.

The tests are intended not for staff who are sick – as they should stay home if they are not feeling well – but for those who may carry the virus but are asymptomatic, Bergstrom said.

Provided by Vault Health, the saliva collection kit is not an antibody test. The test is designed to determine if a person is infected with COVID-19 and has the potential to infect others.

Results are exclusively for individuals and not intended to be a source of data.

“We are merely a testing site,” Bergstrom said.

In addition to building staff, the test kits will also be made available to school bus drivers and school-based childcare workers.

Tests are performed under professional supervision via an internet-based video call and shipped to a lab. Results are expected within 48 hours and will be provided electronically.

Page 6 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Rugosa roses When planning your garden, save room for a rose bush.

Roses are hardy and easy to grow if you select the right kind of rose. Unfortunately, the hybrid tea roses which produce the long stem roses GREEN AND bought in florist’s GROWING IN BENTON shops do not grow COUNTY well in this area be- BY LINDA G. TENNESON cause of our cold winters.

There are several kinds of roses that will grow well here. My favorites are the rugosa roses which are well suited for zone 4 and some as far north as zone 2. Rugosa roses grow in shrub or climber forms and will survive with little care. The word climber is a bit of a misnomer because those roses put out long canes that need to be tied to a support, such as a fence or trellis.

The deep pink climbers John Cabot and William Baffin roses are examples of this.

They will benefit from winter protection and usually all but the very tops of the canes will survive without it. The light pink roses Frau Dagmar Hastrup and Therese Bugnet do not grow as tall but are also winter hardy.

These are cultivars that I have grown, and there are many others that have red, white or yellow blooms with single, double or semi-double petal forms. The blooms usually grow in bunches on shorter stems and are best displayed indoors as single blooms placed in short vases.

Rugosa roses are usually fragrant with wrinkled dark green leaves that have serrated or jagged edges. All roses need six hours of full sun, preferably between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Plant them in a location where they will not be in standing water during our spring melting periods. They also prefer good air circulation and should not be planted too close to the side of a building.

They also need at least 1 inch of water each week. Adding some fertilizer in the spring is also recommended.

Many rugosa roses are resistant to salt spray. One cultivar aptly named Pavement was bred to grow and survive close to roadways.

Each spring, prune off any dead areas or branches that are growing where they will rub against each other. Varieties that grow long canes may be pruned to keep them at a desired height and width. Deadheading is the term for removing blooms as they begin to fade, and this promotes repeat blooming.

Deadheading should be stopped about midAugust so the plant can produce rose hips and prepare for winter. Roses will produce suckers or baby plants which may be cut off or dug up and planted elsewhere once they are big enough to survive.

Rugosa roses suffer from fungal diseases such as black spot, powdery mildew and rust. Remove the damaged leaves, keep the plant well-watered and allow it to recover.

There are sprays and chemicals that may be applied to prevent these conditions, but while these fungi cause the leaves to be unattractive, they usually do not kill the plant.

The same is true for insect infestations such as aphids and spider mites. A spray with insecticidal soap or plain water will remove the insects. Rose petals are edible as are the rose hips that form from each bloom.

However, remove the hairy seeds from the hips because they will cause irritation if eaten. Rose hips may be eaten fresh, made into a jam or syrup, or dried for tea.

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

EDITORIAL

PBIS: A foundation to climate, culture in our schools PBIS, or Positive Behavioral students practice our core values of Interventions and Supports, are alive school engagement, respect and reand well in our Sauk Rapids-Rice sponsibility.

Schools. PBIS is a framework for inThese expectations are practegrating data, systems and practices ticed school-wide to provide a safe, to create positive outcomes for all consistent and predictable school enstudents. PBIS helps schools develop vironment. If you have spent time in ISD 47 tiered levels of support that students By Steve Wagner, SRRHS any of our schools, you most likely receive. saw visuals posted in gathering spacAssistant Principal, Tier 1 supports serve as our es, halls, restrooms and classrooms rePBIS North Region foundation for academics and behavminding all of the behaviors expected. ior. These supports are provided to all Implementation Project Additionally, our expectations have Trainer students. guided our processes and procedures Tier 2 supports focus on as we have taken on the challenge of improving deficits students may have. This is accom- different learning models. The expectations have also alplished by bringing together small groups of students lowed us to recognize and celebrate the many academand providing for their needs. ic and behavioral achievements that take place daily, Tier 3 supports are intensive individualized monthly and yearly. supports where plans are created, specific to a student’s The positive outcomes from the PBIS work beneeds. ing done in each of our schools include: more time for Rather than teaching students what not to do, teaching and learning; improved academic performance; SRR schools define and teach the behaviors they want improved social/emotional regulation; reduced negative to see. From early childhood programming through high behaviors; and improved teacher/student relationships. school, expectations are taught to all students. At the The culture of our schools has created a positive early childhood level, students are taught what it means climate. We will persist in monitoring our academic and to be safe, be respectful and be responsible in their daily behavioral data and adjusting our systems and practices. routines. At the elementary and middle school levels, In the end, we will continue to see high student students practice being on the PATH (prepared, accept- achievement at all levels of Sauk Rapids-Rice schools. ing, trustworthy and honest). At the high school level,

Write

Tit for tat is being made about these 40:8. main topics: speech inducing violence, policy “Now this is the word which by the goschanges, pandemic control and education. pel was preached to you,” 1 Peter 1:25.

You can turn on the media and hear Repub“In the beginning and the word was licans and Democrats saying the exact same with God and the word was God,” John 1:1. thing about each other. I tried to write a little “And the word became flesh and dwelt about some examples, but it all seems like among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory dead air. When you try to breath, it adds no as of the only begotten of the father, full of oxygen to the brain or any substance needed grace and truth,” John 1:14. for survival.

All of this to emphasize that the Bible is So, what is it that will give us means for God’s word, the primary way you will get to LIFE BY FAITH our daily mental and spiritual vitality? Write. know him and hear his will for you and the First things first of course. If you have not BY MERCY NYGAARD primary way you will invoke Godly sorrow found your need for God, pray he puts you when you sin, which leads to repentance into a position so you can recognize that need. Love God that leads to salvation that leads to full joy and peace and learn to love him with all of your heart. God’s word that passes understanding. is the primary way to learn about him. It gives us the hisNow write. Write like your life depends on it. Write tory of his character; it tells us what to do in the present about the first time you turned your head from the news and what to expect in the future. That is why all of what and to your Bible and opened it up. Write about not unis happening in our nation now is not a shock to follow- derstanding God’s mystery and the understanding of it. ers of Jesus. We have read the Bible and know whose All things in the Bible that lead to salvation have been battle this truly is. We know it is not against flesh and made plain and clear. Do not trust me; read it and find blood but against the one who caused enmity in the Gar- out for yourself. den of Eden. Because of the promised seed of Jesus and Write about your friends coming over and feeling because Satan could not stop Jesus’ first coming, Satan like they might get in trouble for it. Write about your has been trying to stop Jesus’ second coming ever since. child coming home dizzy and ill from wearing a mask at He uses and abuses people for his destructive purpose. practice. Write about finding joy while distant learning Make certain he is not using you. or feeling isolated. Write it all because someone is going The end has already been written: God wins, Jesus to find it someday. is on the throne forever, and the Holy Spirit is here to Nazi Germany took away radios, they limited help us while this revelation tarries, although it will not speech, they hauled people away to camps. But those tarry as Habakkuk 2:1-4 tells us. “The just shall live by who were oppressed wrote and gave us windows into the his faith.” Faith and faithfulness go hand in hand for the truth. Everything seems tit for tat right now, but in the righteous. future, when we can look back at this time, we will see Faithfully love God, faithfully lean into him and his who was the truth tellers and who were the deceivers. I plans for you, trusting in him and acknowledging him in leave you with this exhortation, and if we make it to next all your ways. Out of the overflow of your love for him, week, I hope to talk about the faithful past martyrs who love others, serving them and esteeming them higher wrote for our encouragement today. than yourself. If we are forced into our homes, faithfully On March 28, 1944, Anne Frank heard a speech on find ways to serve others. If we are plundered and cannot the radio given by the Dutch Cabinet minister Gerritt enter into restaurants and convenience stores for service, Bolkestein who said, “History cannot be written on the faithfully find ways to help others in need. basis of official decisions and documents alone. If our How do we know this threat may occur and how descendants are to understand fully what we as a nation do we know faithfulness is possible in such times? Be- have had to endure and overcome during these years, cause of those who have gone through this before us and then what we really need are ordinary documents – a have written about it during world wars and other peri- diary, letters from a worker in Germany, a collection of ods of utter suppression. Their pages were preserved and sermons given by a parson or priest. Not until we suchave given us insight into what people endured through ceed in bringing together vast quantities of this simple, circumstance, persevered through evil and encouraged everyday material will the picture of our struggle for each other with God’s word. freedom be painted in its full depth and glory.”

“The Word of the Lord endures forever,” Isaiah

EDITORIAL

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | Page 7

NEWS City Brief

Sauk Rapids Government Center opens Jan. 19

SAUK RAPIDS – The Sauk Rapids Government Center will once again be open to the public beginning Tuesday, Jan 19. City offices are closed Monday, Jan. 18, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Rental reservations are not currently being accepted for the Sauk Rapids Government Center Community Room or the Municipal Park shelters.

What’s Happening Monday, Jan. 18 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Federal holiday.

Tuesday, Jan. 19, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Reminder: Political letters to the editor policy It’s that time of year again.

– Paid political letters to the editor Yes, with one general election behind us will be clearly marked and set apart from and inauguration day only five days away, those which are not. we’re already talking about new elections.

– Readers will be allowed to submit The filing period for township elections one political letter every 14 days. Space is closed Jan. 12, which means our political limited in our papers, and this allows more letters to the editor policy will again be voices to be heard. enforced in regard to those elections. In – Two issues prior to election day, short, any letter that speaks for or against our readers will likely not see any politia particular candidate for office or balcal letters to the editor. The only exception lot question will be subject to charge and ON MY SLEEVE would be publishing letters in response to more limited in word count. People may BY NATASHA BARBER those written prior to the period. continue to address township policies This decision is designed to protect the inand decisions that are not ballot related in tegrity of the election by prohibiting letters accordance with our traditional letters to the editor that could contain misleading or false accusations policy. that could ultimately affect voters’ decisions should Political Letters to the Editor Policy a candidate not have the opportunity to respond.

– All political letters to the editor will be limited – All letters to the editor – political or not – reto 250 words in order to accommodate more letters quire first and last names, addresses and phone numand viewpoints. bers. This allows newspaper staff to verify the letter – All letters endorsing or opposing a candidate, writer’s identity. ballot measure or political party will be a paid letter We do not print anonymous letters of any kind. to the editor. Star Publications will charge a flat fee Names and city of residency will be published in the of $25 for 250-word or less letters. Payment must be newspaper along with the letter copy. received prior to copy deadline.

– The final time and date to submit a political Display advertising rates will be applied to letters letter to the editor for township elections is 5 p.m. exceeding the word limit.

Wednesday, Feb. 17.

Star Publications has adopted this blanket meaThis and every election season, we encourage sure as, at times, endorsement letters are written as participation from our readers. part of marketing campaigns.

Letters to the editor can be emailed to natasha@ – Political letters regarding issues that make saukherald.com or mailed to or dropped off at Sauk no indication of favor or opposition of a candidate, Rapids Herald, 2 Second Ave. S., Unit 135, Sauk ballot measure or political party will continue to be Rapids. printed free of charge.

Letter to the Editor

Congress has grounds to remove Trump David Laliberte, Sauk Rapids As president, Donald Trump’s sworn duty is to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. His shameful conduct in fomenting riots at the U.S. Capitol building Jan. 6 – a physical assault on the convened legislative branch incited by the leader of the executive branch – fundamentally breaches that oath.

Our constitutionally-protected form of government rests on the ability of each of our three federal branches – executive, legislative and judicial – to

legally check the others and thus prevent an overaccumulation of power. Constitutionally, the executive’s check on the Legislature is the ability to veto proposed laws. Instead, Trump responded to acts of Congress with incendiary language provoking a violent attack on the Legislature gathered at the Capitol.

This violates the Constitution and the sworn presidential oath.

It is well for our great democracy that Trump will soon depart the presidency, but if Congress chooses to end his term immediately by impeachment and conviction, constitutional grounds exist to do so.

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.

Tuesday, Jan. 19, 9 a.m. – Benton County Board of Commissioners Meeting. Benton County Administration Building, 531 Dewey St., Foley.

Tuesday, Jan. 19, 6 p.m. – Rice City Council Meeting. Rice City Hall, 205 E. Main St., Rice.

Wednesday, Jan. 20, 6-7 p.m. – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Friday, Jan. 22, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Saturday, Jan. 23, 7-9 p.m. – Catholic Charities Mardi Gras Celebration. Virtual and free event. Live music, silent auction and Fund a Need campaign. Register at ccstcloud.org. Silent auction opens at noon, Wednesday, Jan. 20. Benefitting Catholic Charities Emergency Services and Domus Transitional Housing.

Monday, Jan. 25, 6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids City Council Meeting. Sauk Rapids City Hall, 251 Summit Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Crime & Public Safety

Sauk Rapids woman sentenced for forged checks

ST. CLOUD – A Sauk Rapids woman was sentenced in Stearns County court in November 2020 for charges brought against her regarding felony check forgery in September and October 2018.

Sean Marie Olson, 31, will serve 20 days in jail, pay a $50 fine and $1,536.30 in restitution, complete a chemical dependency evaluation and serve five years probation, as well as adhere to recommendations by the court.

If Olson successfully completes probation, her conviction will be lessened to a misdemeanor on her permanent record.

Rice man convicted of violating a no contact order

ST. CLOUD – A Rice man was found guilty of charges brought against him in Stearns County court regarding violation of a domestic abuse no contact order. The charges stemmed from a Nov. 15, 2020, incident where the man was found to be riding inside a vehicle with the person he is to have no contact with.

Jeremiah James Czeck, 37, will serve 21 months in prison if five years of probation is not successfully completed. Czeck will also serve six days in jail, pay a $50 fine plus fees, pay restitution yet to be determined and complete a domestic abuse program and follow its recommendations, among other items.

Czeck was convicted of a felony no contact order violation and gross misdemeanor assault in October 2020, according to a criminal complaint filed in Stearns County.

Page 8 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

NEWS

HONOR ROLL

To qualify for the A honor roll, students must achieve a grade point average of 3.667 or above. To qualify for the B honor roll, students must achieve a grade point average between 3.0 and 3.666. The following students have achieved their respective distinctions:

A Honor Roll Grade 6: Qatranada Al Jabbasee, Josephine P. Anderson, Taya E. Barry, Ella J. Barthel, Sydney G. Bauer, Alyssa J. Behrendt, Margaret A. Bialke, Alivia A. Blissenbach, Aiden M. Breth, Emma R. Brutger, Brendan J. Burke, Claire E. Daniel, Brooklyn M. Diskerud, Macey K. Fitzpatrick, Evan P. Foy, Marissa Q. Frank, Allison K. Friesen, Isaac L. Frost, Owen H. Gales, Emilia A. Gregerson, Brenna L. Gruber, Autumn R. Hedstrom, Ruby R. Helgeson, Nolan J. Hemker, David M. Herman, Matthew C. Jacob, Caraline K. Jaeger, Erika G. Jansen, Arden M. Jensen, Bailea L. Johnson, Kylen M. Johnson, Tru E. Johnson, Kameron C. Kraemer, Sierra B. Kriefall, Reed N. Krogstad, Calvin Le, Alexander D. Lindeman, Parker S. Maertens, Anika S. Martinson, Abigail L. Massmann, Carter A. McClure, Tyler T. McNeal, Lauren O. Mehrwerth, Abbey R. Meinert, Jack C. Merritt, Isaac M. Miller, River O. Moliga, Kailynn R. Morse, Brady J. Mrozek, Caydence L. Muehlbauer, Brenden J. Nathe, Kaylee J. Ness, Hayden E. Neussendorfer, Derek A. Nguyen, Iris M. O’Donnell, Brenna M. Piepkorn, Michael J. Poganski, Caroline L. Popp, Brady R. Putnam, Eliason D. Rademacher, Leah N. Ramirez, Payten T. Remer, Brody M. Richter, Annella L. Rogers, Jenna R. Rosa, Carter Roth, Donovan I. Rousslang, Addison M. Rueter, Rya A. Rushmeyer, Henry Saenz, Olivia M. Schaap, Jens T. Scott, Rosalee J. Seamans, Emersyn G. Sjogren, Julianna M. Skog, Melody Skurdahl, Collin T. Slagter, Hunter A. Smoley, Zoey M. Spiczka, Andrew J. Steinemann, Nina D. Strack, Emma M. Sundby, Kaylee M. Swain, Andrew R. Theis, Hai Dang Tong, Jocelynn K. Trainor, Karina L. Travis, Connor E. Van Nevel, Willa E. Varilek, Molly M. Warzecha, Quinn R. Washnieski, Peyton G. Welch, Anna C. Weller, Cody J. Will-Robinson, Eli J. Wippler and Jayla S. Yoss.

Grade 7: Sarah R. Amberson, Hailey M. Bischoff, Ethan P. Boettcher, Bennett A. Bonebright, Levi M. Brenny, Madison A. Bruzek, Abigail K. Burke, Drew D. Burrows, Kailee C. Cahill, Kendra K. Carlson, Cecelia K. Christopher, Kassandra J. Eckerman, Carleigh M. Eich, Ethan L. Elwood, Zachary T. Euteneuer, Hunter Feia, Ellie A. Fiereck, Quentin G. Fladeboe, Charles M. Forsberg, Kylie N. Freitag, Oliver T. Froelich, Kailey M. Gazett, Trystan J. Getlinger, Kylee R. Greener, Ruby A. Gustofson, Caleb B. Guzek, Brady J. Haag, Ethan J. Haddy, Grace A. Halter, Clayton R. Handeland, Adria G. Hanson, Cecelia D. Heneke, Alicia A. Hovanes,

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Torin P. Huff, Sumalee C. Jacobson, Kaylee A. Janaszak, Taylor G. Janorschke, Stella G. Johnson, Hailey M. Kalusche, Abigail R. Kapsner, Brielle N. Karasch, Zachary A. Kardell, Logan D. Kealy, Kristen L. Kimman, Benjamin L. Kirchner, Samuel S. Kulus, Stella M. Lambaere, Ally L. Lucas, Benjamin R. Mach, Fatimah Z. Mallick, Aubrey R. Marketon, Austin J. Markfelder, Karly A. Martini, Owen J. Massmann, Mason O. Meyer-Thovson, Amelia K. Michael, Noah H. Middendorf, Madison R. Miller, Mika R. Miller-Schroden, Carter M. Molitor, Laura V. Moran, Aaron J. Mueller, Olivia A. Nahan, Avery J. Nathe, Addison R. Nellis, Jack J. Nelson, Addisen E. Newbanks, Braelyn R. Nord, Kennadee M. Otteson, Kyle J. Paulson, Ava T. Peterson, My Kha Phan, Lillian G. Philippi, Lane D. Piotrowski, Lenora L. Probasco, Jackson C. Prom, Elsie S. Redman, Hayden E. Reinert, Evan G. Reiter, Amelia J. Reker, Tayler M. Retzack, Carter J. Riedeman, Kole A. Robinson, Alexander M. Roering, Leah A. Roesch, Claire O. Rogholt, Garek R. Rubel, Brody D. Sabin, Ellie G. Scherping, Alison M. Schreifels, Mariah M. Simmons, Aubree R. Smith, Grace A. Smith, Hannah L. Solorz, Elka K. Sowada, Mia D. Staton, Mckenzie L. Steiner, Sophia M. Stier, Hunter J. Strand, Alexis G. Swanson, Sean M. Swanson, Lillian Y. Taylor, Dominic A. Thompson, Grace E. Thompson, Madison M. Traut, Lauren S. Vanvickle, Gavin C. Weber, Madilyn O. WoitallaMix, Anthony J. Wolbeck, Audrey A. Youngdahl, Kyle J. Zimmer and Caden M. Zuhlsdorf.

Grade 8: Manar Al Jabbasee, Mason D. Anderson, Quinn P. Arndt, Imayah N. Bannerman-Williams, Hunter P. Behling, Emily R. Berg, Aric T. Bittman, Gabriella M. Blissenbach, James G. Brennhofer, Halle R. Buchert, Elena N. Bui, Ariya J. Caul, Isabelle L. Clark, Norah J. Delgado, Jackson D. Dhein, Addison R. Eisenschenk, Jada A. Fautsch, Abby L. Feddema, Mason J. Fincher, Kendra Y. Fitzpatrick, Maggie L. Foster, Emma A. Foy, Kade E. Gibbons, Isabelle A. Goebel, Samantha M. Goenner, Lily R. Gregerson, Keller D. Hanson, Alivia R. Hejhal, Erika A. Henke, Addyson J. Henrikson, Alaina A. Jansky, Ella J. Jevne, Mya M. Johnson, Sydalee R. Johnson, Marcus R. Julius, Ayla J. Kissinger, Aubrey M. Klug, Jordyn M. Koepp, Amber L. Konietzko, Shea M. Koster, Leah M. Krupa, Vivian L. Kusilek, Layla L. Laabs, Isabel J. Larocque, Kylie E. Larson, Ryder L. Lindala, Audrey C. Lo, Audra E. Lott, Maria T. Lyon, Ethan W. Mader, Asiyah A. Mallick, Andrew P. Marten-Rosenow, Elliott D. Miller, Riann S. Mohamud, Olivia L. Mohs, Kael T. Mrozek, Shelby E. Nelson, Tyler J. Neumann, Tyson J. Newville-Larson, Ava S. Plemel, Daren S. Protolipac Jr, Hannah E. Ramirez, Savanna R. Ratka, Ian J. Rucks, Isabella J. Rudolph, Evan P. Scapanski, Kyleigh A. Schacherer, Lauren I. Schloe, Hannah M. Schmitt, Bailey C. Seaman, Eli M. Sjogren, Sophia S. Smith, Grace F. Stark, Isabella R. Stewart, Grace L. Theis, Jonah D. Thell, Cullen J. Thompson, Xavier D. Thurston, Lindsey L. Tindal, Caroline M. Tykwinski, Jack R. Van Heel, Madison M. Vedbraaten, Jonathan D. Virnig, Addison H. Welch, Alexa A. Welsh, Marina D. Will-Robinson and Lisset M. Zacarias.

Grade 9: Christopher A. Anderson, Madalyn B. Anderson, Brandt K. Andres, Campbell J. Arndt, Kirsten M. Arnold, Ava J. Athman, Chloe M. Bartholome, Logan J. Bauer, Austin G. Beierman, Nikolas H. Berger, Faith A. Biorn, Sydney S. Birk, Sawyer J. Boedigheimer, Braylee A. Borst, Lucy A. Brenny, Jaida K. Burrows, Kaylee E. Butenhoff, Jenavieve E. Caster, Maya G. Castilleja, Alexis L. Clark, Jaelyn J. Claude, Faith L. Combel, Abigail K. Davis, Chantelle E. Dickerson, Morgan A. Dorn, Anthony L. Etter, Matthew L. Etter, Joani R. Fautsch, Jayden P. Felchle, Brielle M. Fiereck, Mason M. Foss, Alayna R. Furman, Royelle D. Gajeski, Drew I. Gargus, Jerrin E. Glade, Delia L. Gustofson, Joseph R. Guzek, Samantha A. Haaf, Dalton J. Haffner, Kylie M. Hanes, Mckayla A. Harms, Danielle N. Holmgren, Gunnar O. Jacobson, Matthew J. Jegers, Kylie M. Johnson, Sadie R. Johnson, Amberly R. Kidd, Callen T. Kieke, Elizabeth E. Krueger, Elizabeth R.

Kruger, Ava E. Kummet, Austin M. Kunz, Sierra M. Kutzera, Jordyn J. Lee, Alex P. Lucas, Trinity L. Maki, Sophia J. Markfelder, Leah E. Mazacek, Rosa E. Mazacek, Riley D. Meinert, Anika R. Meyer, Dillon C. Miller, Maya C. Miller, Brynn J. Molitor, Arica K. Moriak, Brooke A. Mushatt, Ryan J. Neisen, Lucy M. Nelson, Trace R. Nelson, Kaitlyn C. Olsen, Courtney J. Paulsen, Sienna R. Petermeier, Lillian R. Piotrowski, Erica M. Poganski, Tianna M. Presler, Kailey R. Reinert, Benjamin J. Reker, Rylan T. Robinson, Samantha K. Rock, Owen W. Rogholt, Lucas M. Ryan, Nicholas R. Sakry, Kaya E. Schneider, Tyler J. Schreifels, Abby L. Schreiner, Jordan L. Steinhofer, Veruca B. Stommes, Jackson J. Swartzer, Hai Yen Tong, Emily L. Vanvickle, Kennedy L. Wahlin, Kyla E. Walker, Shaun A. Walrath, Morgan R. Westerhoff, Austin M. Winkelman, Taylor V. Wolfe, Christopher J. Wolter, Katelynn A. Zimmer and Haylee L. Zwick.

Grade 10: Ethan J. Anderson, Kendall N. Anderson, Alison L. Andruschak, Allan J. Arseneau, Caelei M. Banks, Brady R. Bauer, Olivia P. Bauer, Bailey L. Behrendt, Andrew J. Bemboom, Owen D. Berg, Travis R. Biery, Kaytlin R. Bittman, Noah D. Blodgett, Alleaya R. Brewer, Maycee J. Britz, Annika N. Broman, Addison R. Buchanan, Robert J. CarstensenBoe, Brooklyn E. Chantry, Ashley A. Chareunrath, Lillyana A. Chouinard, Selah M. Christiansen, Isabella K. Christopher, Drew P. Danielson, Heidy A. Deleon Escobar, Daniel J. Dusing, Morgan R. Eggert, Mackenzie R. Felchle, Broden E. Flakne, Aliese A. Forsting, Collin R. Fuchs, Keaton M. Gohman, Ava L. Grabinski, Eva M. Griffey, Kavan J. Gullette, Isabelle M. Haddy, Savanna M. Handeland, Andrew J. Harren, Cammille E. Henry, Alexandra M. Hill, Benaiah D. Hinz, Ava A. Hitzler, Logan J. Hurd, Alex M. Janorschke, Emmilie M. Janski, Gabriella R. Jaskolka, Lexie B. Johnson, Lillian G. Julius, Kaitlyn A. Kimman, Ellie L. Kirt, Jack D. Klein, Ella S. Knutson, Adrianna S. Koepke, Liberty E. Kosloski, Elizabeth L. Kothman, Benjamin R. Kulus, Mia A. Lambrecht, Chayce D. Larocque, Madison E. Lavery, Victoria G. Lo, Max S. Loesch, Grace M. Loidolt, Emma P. Miller, Anisa A. Mohamed, Saige O. Moliga, Chloe E. Molitor, Lydia E. Nash, April R. Nelson, Keegan D. Patterson, Eric T. Paulsen, Richelle M. Peacock, Charles G. Peterson, Trinity E. Prom, Ajiah L. Quach, Evalynn K. Reed, Justin B. Reichard, Kody A. Reinert, Madison A. Riedeman, Parker J. Rieland, Carley R. Roberts, Samantha M. Roering, Grace E. Roesch, Lillian J. Rogholt, Trista L. Rosa, Mason P. Rudolph, Anna L. Rushmeyer, Ren P. Schoenherr, Devin D. Schroeder, Katelynn S. Sevre, Cade J. Smallbrock, Jeff D. Solorz, Starlyn H. Spoden, Jadeyn O. Stover, Divya R. Subramaniam, Chloe A. Sunder, Jack G. Theis, Nolan C. Thell, Juliana R. Walter and Jacob M. Weller.

Grade 11: Cole J. Ackerman, Lucy J. Ahles, Rayna A. Barry, Addison O. Bemboom, Jacob W. Blackmore, Alexander B. Bradley, Ian J. Cairns, Isabelle J. Cairns, Macy M. Castilleja, Jack E. Christoferson, Hailee A. Cullen, Heidi R. Danielson, Kelly R. Decker, Andrew J. Dusek, Valeria Flores Bonilla, Gabriel J. Gertken, Catherine M. Gilbertson, Sophia L. Henkel, Jazmynn E. Henrikson, Claire C. Idzerda, Ruth A. Justin, Brynn M. Karasch, Andrew R. Kath, Isabella Kohout, Zachary A. Kosloske, Rachel R. Kremers, Amellia R. Kuhn, Julia M. Lawrence, Christian S. Lee, Nicholas P. Lindquist, Carter J. Loesch, Madison K. Maanum, Noah R. Macdonald, Andrew T. Markfelder, Preston A. Marotte, Lillyann M. Martin, Aneleise C. Martinson, Josie M. Mayers, Bethany A. Mears, Tiffany M. Miller-Schroden, Ahmed A. Mohamed, Mackenna R. Moon, John Z. Moran, Ariana M. Nemeth, Mckinsey C. Newbanks, William B. Nielsen, Jack A. O’Brien, Hayley M. Olson, Peyton T. Olson, Bryce A. Paulson, Cole H. Paulson, Darci A. Peterson, Easton M. Portner, Emma L. Portner, Chloe A. Reiter, Hailey M. Remus, Brady J. Roach, Simon M. Rosenberg, Sophia R. Rothstein, Vanessa L. Say, Taylor J. Sidla, Emma E. Swartzer, Mason W. Tasto, Jack T. Taszarek, Emily R. Taylor, Audrey J. Tindal,

NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | Page 9

HONOR ROLL Olivia J. Tykwinski, Chelsey M. Vogel, Kayla A. Wahlin, Jayce M. Walrath, Madison M. Weber, Haily A. Weissenfluh, Mason J. Welch, Macy C. Welk, Lydia M. Zabinski and Carter J. Zuhlsdorf.

Grade 12: Michael C. Anderson, Sarah D. Anderson, Tiernan M. Atteberry, Tabara C. Barry, Jared J. Bentrud, Isabelle C. Birk, Jakub E. Blum, Brandon T. Bokelman, Drew A. Burling, Grace M. Burski, Allyson E. Carstensen-Boe, Nicholas M. Chantry, Owen N. Chilson, Jack D. Curtis, Haley L. Davis, Tiffany T. Duong, Carter J. Eckblad, Joshua L. Etter, Justus R. Floren, Gage O. Foster, Alexandra R. Freihammer, Adyson R. Froiland, Ethan T. Galler, Sarah J. Gama, Natalie K. Gerads, Elijah E. Grabinski, Keanna A. Guggisberg, Noah J. Hackett, Tucker P. Hendrickson, Braeden M. Holt, Christian A. Iriarte, Austin D. Jansky, Emma J. Johnson, Ava J. Juntunen-Novak, Alyssa N. Karls, Rebekah L. Kimman, Kobe M. Knettel, Grayson N. Kobluk, Ella G. Kockler, Ashley A. Konietzko, Bradley R. Kothman, Abigail J. Kramer, Ali J. Kremer, Lillian K. Kuhn, Kendra A. Kunerth, Emily M. Landwehr, Jordan L. Lee, Braedyn T. Leeb, Logan J. Ludwig, Olivia K. Lyon, Evan R. Mader, Adam N. Marshall, Gavin L. Martin, Ryan J. Mastey, Libertey J. Mayse, Summer E. Millard, Annabelle G. Mohs, Ryan D. Moilanen, Tessa L. Moulzolf, Andrew R. Nagel, Aaron J. Neumann, Madeline E. Neussendorfer, Musab M. Nuh, Mckenzie A. Olson, Jaiden L. Parker, Bradyn A. Petrek, Aaron B. Reichard, Bailey J. Reiter, Ethan R. Retzer, Aden B. Rollins, Eli J. Rudnick, Natasha S. Rushmeyer, Emily A. Schloe, Makenzi E. Schmitz, Jayse C. Schreifels, Morgan S. Schreifels, Ashlyn K. Schreiner, Brynn E. Seaman, Isabella V. Severson, Miaya M. Simon, Jordan M. Smith, Kylee I. Sprifke, Jayden M. Steinemann, Allison M. Stiegel, Isaac C. Theis, Ahmiaya A. Turner, Claire J. Updike, Riley S. Verly, Alyssa R. Waytashek and Ashley G. Woitalla.

B Honor Roll Grade 6: Andrew K. Allen, Holly A. Anderson, Eva S. Bechtold, Faith M. Bogle, Jackson L. Bruns, Grady Buchert, Lily L. Campbell, Mitchel B. Carlson, Ellie O. Cave, Lauren R. Christie, Loralei L. Cmelik, Lauren A. Condon, Dominic C. Cruz, Alessandra K. Dalley, Cash P. Dalman, Joselynn M. Dubbin, Jackson K. Faber, Rosealyn M. Firenz, Sophia H. Frank, Preston I. Garcia, Kassidy A. Gill, Karlee A. Goenner, Aiden M. Greenly, Jada L. Hanson, Evan M. Hardy, Finnegan D. Hatanpa, Nolan J. Herbst, Hailey M. Hurdt, Vivian F. Jaschke, Addison A. Jernberg, Danyka L. Johnson, Kaia F. Johnson, Olivia K. Johnson, Alexis D. Jones, Kane A. Kinney, Colin T. Kissinger, Orion J. Kloby, Aden K. Konietzko, Taylor L. Lamoureux, Cameron O. Lane, Mylah D. Lukason, Lily A. Lutterman, Jasmine M. Manea, Brielle T. McCarthy, Aaliyah L. McLaughlin, Jenner Moonen, Samuel R. Moore, Kaylee R. O’Riley, Natalie S. Olson, Shelby J. Omvig, Bella L. Packard-Schendzielos, Aidan L. Perry, John C. Pesta, Emma E. Pfaff, Christopher E. Popescu, Alana M. Ramler, Rachel G. Resch, Jackson L. Rieke, Cullen J. Rock, Landen M. Roen, Kellan R. Rogholt, Griffin J. Rothstein, Chloe J. Rowe, Andrew A. Scapanski, Kylee A. Schaffer, Thomas M. Schepers, Christian T. Schroeder, Allie M. Scott, Maddox M. Shay, Logan T. Simmons, Shaelyn M. Sjogren, Sidney A. Smith, Berkley A. Spoden, Cameron J. Squires, Tyler J. Steinemann, Morgan B. Teff, Isaac L. Thiele, Riley M. Turck, Evan S. Vassar, Matteo A. Villagra, Riley A. Walters-Andrews, Patricia R. Warzecha, Greta K. Widman, Connor M. Winkelman and Layla C. Wolvert.

Grade 7: Spencer J. Ackerman, Shawn A. Andersen, Megan J. Anderson, Brooke A. Andruschak, Andrew D. Arseneau, Kevin J. Bartholome, Nevaeh F. Bechtold, Aiden J. Bellefeuille, Grace A. Carlson, Aubrey J. Clark, Evan D. Claude, Wren M. Dahl, Mariame Dioumessy, Adela E. DominguezGarcia, Brandon J. Goebel, Isabelle E. Gruber,

Konnor M. Gullette, Chase R. Hammond, Mitchell J. Hanson, Eli A. Harrison, Matthew W. Henke, Evan H. Hoivik, Aleigha T. Jensen, Grayson B. Johns, Eva J. Johnson, Taylor J. Johnson, Burton L. Koenig, Hailey M. Kuebelbeck, Jacob N. Larson, Mason M. Lindstrom, Liam J. Lock, Cole M. Messerich, Cedrik N. Mills, Brandon M. Miskowic, Sophia C. Montag, Benjamin C. Neumann, Keira A. Oehmen, Gracelyn R. Parker, Macy P. Peterson, Bryden S. Prelvitz, Elijah J. Rajkowski, Morgan R. Retka, Brady J. Salo, Braxton M. Schmidt, Ethan C. Schraut, Jaelyne E. Shoultz, Inna A. Stene, Ivy M. Swoyer, Yissel N. Vasquez, Vienna C. Victorian, Rebekah C. Vocelka, Lucas C. Weber, Dominic S. Weeres, Trinity G. Wehrle, Breckin C. Wenger, Brayden M. Westby, Deangelo J. Williams, Isabella E. Wilson, Myles J. Winkler, Brianna L. Woods, Kurt D. Wright and Ellie J. Yozamp.

Grade 8: Dakota J. Banks, Hayden R. Bauer, Kathryn O. Bialke, Marissa A. Bomstad, Kaitlyn T. Burski, Anthony A. Camara, Ian R. Chinander, Lindsey A. Christopherson, Raider T. Deering, Hunter M. Diskerud, Kaylie A. Dubbels, Robert J. Dusing, Timothy J. Eck, Isabelle A. Fiereck, Luca T. Filiaggi, Logan W. Friesen, Cole J. Gates, Grayson J. Gazett, Deagan T. Gondeck, Teagan L. Haarstad, Annica J. Haffner, Brooklyn A. Hahn, Mason M. Heid-Novak, Myla G. Heurung, Kylee M. Hoeschen, Sydney K. Jennings, Kaya I. Johnson, Ashlynn K. Kinney, Mallory J. Kosloski, Bradyn J. Kost, Emma J. Kottom, Madalyn A. Kronenberg, Olivia L. Lee, Luke J. Loidolt, Isaiah A. Lopez, Drew C. Lund, Jake A. Machula, Logan P. Miller, Austin Molitor, Ella G. Mrozek, Hudson E. Omoke, Reed L. Omvig, Dillon M. Pansch, Kajia M. Peine, Skyler A. Petermeier, Seth G. Peterson, Mariah N. Plemel, Olivia E. Posch, Jack W. Post, Kate L. Robish, Brianna L. Ruggles, Lincoln J. Rushmeyer, Mason M. Sabraski, Elijah J. Schmitz, Cameron E. Smith, Christopher Smith Jr, Julia A. St Onge, Alanna C. Stier, Vivian R. Tangen, Kendra A. Teff, Maiya L. Thompson, Alyssa J. Vogel, Basil M. Vogel, Jackson S. Warzecha, James S. Weisenbeck, Joseph T. Wells, Avery J. Ziegler and Abigail A. Zimpel.

Grade 9: Katelyn M. Anderson, Nicholas D. Anderson, Lucas J. Barber, Ian R. Biniek, Ruby K. Carlson, Renee L. Christopherson, Landen D. Combel, Madison A. Delong, Coltin J. Eich, John M. Engebretson, Gabrielle L. Fernholz, Jed R. Foster, Ella R. Froelich, Piper E. Froiland, Colin A. Gruber, Teagan E. Guggisberg, Blake M. Halter, Madison L. Hansen, Ramla F. Hasan, Subayda F. Hasan, Jacob M. Henkemeyer, Ryder H. Hogge, Ellen M. Jaschke, Alex L. Johnson, Dylan A. Johnson, Reid S. Kiffmeyer, Grace A. Kitzmann, Isabella R. Kitzmann, William J. Klein, Walker H. Loesch, Ethan L. Martin, Jadyn J. Meller, Delika P. Monsen, Lindsey C. Moran, Ciarra M. Moss, Blake C. Nelson, My Khang Phan, Maggie P. Philabaum, Shawn P. Pilon, Matthew M. Platz, Grace K. Popp, Nathan S. Prom, Danielle R. Purcell, Makeo P. Pygnasak, Bree N. Rau, Rebecca J. Rosa, Benjamin M. Rothstein, Leif R. Rudnick, Luke M. Scheeler, Izabell L. Schuldt, Collin D. Shroyer, Victoria K. Steichen, Adam J. Sundby, Ethan C. Swanson, Evan A. Trompeter, Westin P. Wehrs, Logan D. Yeager, Cassidy L. Zeilenga, Audrey M. Zeiszler and Alex J. Zwack.

Grade 10: Chase R. Anderson, Maggie M. Anderson, Autumn R. Bestgen, Autumn J. Borgert, Erika J. Brenny, Amanda R. Burton, Christopher W. Carter, Emily A. Coss, Kendal S. Craft, Ethan D. Euteneuer, Maximus J. Floren, Sakiya D. Fredrickson, Cooper S. Godwin, Hannah J. Halter, Brielle M. Hanson, Taylor M. Heid, Madisson K. Jacobs, Emma R. Johnson, Kendall A. Kinney, Lauren G. Klein, Logan M. Koland, Paige E. Koopmeiners, Evan J. Kramer, Marissa M. Lemm, Bergen L. Madison, Nathan M. Martin, Serenity R. Martinez, Paul G. Martinson, Cohen D. Mathies, Marya C. Mccoy, Jameson R. Mcquillan, Ilham S. Mohamud, Tyrelle J. Moody, Jasmine D. Oliver, Aisha A. Omar, Jace A. Orton, Taiya R. Partch, Carter A. Peplinski, John

D. Petrie, Brooklynn R. Pliscott, Angel R. Ploof, Ethan E. Purcell, Brady D. Roberts, Alexis R. Rockenbach, Josiah S. Rodriguez, Mia C. Rogholt, Makaila J. Ryan, Carissa J. Sander, Julia E. Satre, Kenneth C. Scherr, Sadie L. Schoenherr, Molly K. Schraut, Destiny J. Snow, Jasmine N. Spears, Emily J. Thomas, Simon F. Thompson, Benjamin A. Villagra and Carley L. Weisenbeck.

Grade 11: Owen L. Arndt, Hailey A. Arnold, Alexis J. Arrenholz, Aubrey R. Bemboom, Lilli L. Berger, Abigail E. Bollmeyer, Dylan R. Braucks, Wyatt A. Carpinella, Kayson P. Carter, Evan G. Chilson, Cayden J. Christensen, Gloria L. Christianson, Gavin J. Emery, Caleb B. Euteneuer, Maggie A. Fernholz, Morgan J. Fiereck, Ivy E. Foster, Dylan J. Friedrich, Angela E. Fritz, Trinity A. Gill, Kylie A. Griffey, Ella M. Gunderson, Alexander S. Harren, Ashlyn R. Hoihjelle, Noah S. Jensen, Brayden A. Johnson, Isaak P. Johnson, Naomi E. Kolle, Timothy R. Krueger, Bertice A. Lundorff, Vanessa A. Lwiza, Dominic T. Mathies, Alyssa C. Meyer, Corina K. Miller, Ethan M. Mohs, Elijah C. Moilanen, Terrence R. Moody, Audrey J. Morehouse, Brayden M. Ness, Duyen T. Nguyen, Rachel D. Nowacki, Esther E. Parks, Kennedy G. Pederson, Jacob D. Peters, Katlyn A. Philabaum, Kyan G. Robideau-Turk, Noah R. Rosenberger, Paul J. Rothanburg, Michaela P. Sawicki, Owen J. Scheeler, Pearson L. Schroeder, Kathryn A. Stiegel, Riley A. Stover, Bailee R. Thompson, Alexis M. Turck, Heel, Allie N. Van Gavin O. Vanderveer, Annie Mae R. Westergren, Will C. White, Lars O. Wilson, Tamara K. Woods and Kiah M. Zaske.

Grade 12: Allie D. Ackerman, Sierra J. Apps, Colin L. Baron, Elizabeth K. Block, Hanna M. Buchner, Alexxis K. Carlson, Julia D. Caster, Uriah L. Cook, Jaide M. Dvorak, Cora L. Fladeboe, Cole J. Gauerke, Aaron J. Golden, Lily G. Groover, Savannah H. Gustafson, Anja M. Hanson, Connor J. Hemker, Jalynn M. Jackson, Alysa L. Keller, Lauren G. Krupa, Adan V. Lachmansingh, Madison A. Laurent, Alyssa E. Leavey, Alexis G. Leen, Maraya L. Lindberg, Onnolee A. March-Giefer, Jasmine M. Mbwille, Kassandra A. Meyer, Alexander T. Miskowic, Rock L. Moliga, Ella A. Nelson, Autumn J. Olson, Ethan M. Opsahl, Alexis M. Partch, Veronica L. Peacock, Izabella L. Peplinski, Kaelin M. Rainer, Kaety A. Rainer, Maria E. Roesner, Shelby M. Salner-Meyer, Justin M. Scheeler, Hunter J. Scherbing, Carlissa M. Schultz, Denise J. Schultz, Shjon A. Sertich, Treyvon C. Smith, David A. Stamm, Chloe L. Stommes, Shawn J. Theisen, Horn, Hannah M. Van Rees L. Vannurden, Ellyse H. Von Eschen, Jacob T. Wallin, Riley M. Weinand, Jacob F. Willie, Myles M. Willie, Singrid R. Wilson, Maya J. Zaske and Madeline G. Ziegler.

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NEWS

Page 10 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Sauk Rapids-Rice sets BREAK protocols for snow days District to make decisions apart from St. Cloud, Sartell-St. Stephen

CROSSWORD

BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – Sauk Rapids-Rice schools will soon return prekindergarten through grade 12 students to in-person learning. In preparation, the district has released guidelines for winter weather-related delays, early releases and closures.

Historically, Sauk Rapids-Rice, Sartell-St. Stephen and St. Cloud Area districts have worked together to make decisions regarding weather-related emergencies. This year, due to varying learning models in each district based on COVID-19 and COVID19-related absences, each district will announce school-related delays, early releases and closures on its own, Superintendent Bradley Bergstrom said.

The district relies on various winter weather statements, watches and warnings from the National Weather Service, along with information

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based on COVID-19 and COVID-19-related absences in that learning community,” the letter said.

Elementary students will transition to full-time in-person learning Tuesday, Jan. 19, while secondary students will be in a hybrid learning model, learning remotely part-time, until Feb. 1. Pre-kindergarten through grade 12 students may choose to learn remotely for the remainder of the year via the district’s Family Choice option.

Following is a breakdown of weatherrelated protocols based on individual learning models.

Late start If inclement weather warrants a late start, classes will run two hours late for all students – those learning in person or remotely in a hybrid or distance model.

Transportation services will pick up in-person learners two hours later than usual.

The two-hour late start applies to students who are distance learning as a result of a district decision or by choice, and to students (those in special education, for example) receiving in-person instruction and services while the district is in a distance or hybrid learning model.

Early release If inclement weather warrants an early release, school will close two hours early for all students – those learning in person or remotely in a hybrid or distance model.

Transportation services will drop off in-person learners two hours earlier than usual.

For students in a hybrid or full-time distance learning model, online classes will end two hours early.

The two-hour early release applies to students who are distance learning as a result of a district decision or by choice, and to students (those in special education, for example) receiving in-person instruction and services while the district is in a distance or hybrid learning model.

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Full-day closure If inclement weather warrants a full-day closure, classes will be canceled for all students – those learning in person or remotely in a hybrid or distance model.

Classes would be canceled for students who are distance learning as a result of a district decision or by choice, and to students (those in special education, for example) receiving in-person instruction and services while the district is in a distance or hybrid learning model.

On the fourth fullday weather closure and beyond, kindergarten through grade 12 students will do e-learning.

The following information is related to child care services: In the case of a late start, if in a hybrid or distance learning model, critical care for essential workers at each elementary location will open at 10 a.m. At Rice Elementary, wrap-around child care and critical child care for essential workers will open at 10 a.m. This applies to all learning models.

In the case of early dismissal, if in an in-person or hybrid learning model, all child care locations will remain open until 4 p.m. Parents and guardians are asked to pick up their children as soon as safely possible.

In the case of a fullday closure, if school is canceled for the entire day due to severe weather, KIDSTOP and Rice Kids’ Club will not be open.

If school is canceled for the day due to extreme temperatures, one KIDSTOP per district (Mississippi Heights) will be open, and registered KIDSTOP students can attend that site. In addition, Rice Kids’ Club will be open, and registered Rice Kids’ Club students can attend. These protocols apply to all learning models.

Pulse on People

Students named to academic lists

R14-tfnB-tv

ST R

from St. Cloud State University meteorologists, to determine if weather conditions may cause a late start, full-day cancellation or early dismissal from school.

We a t h e r - r e l a t e d information will continue to be sent to families via Skylert, an automated notification system. Late starts, early releases and closures will also be communicated on the district’s website and through local media.

So far this school year, the district has had not had any snow days.

The first snow day, or emergency closing, will not need to be made up this school year. The second and third full-day closures may be made up Feb. 12, April 5 or June 4, according to district guidelines.

If the district has four or more full-day weather closures, those days will be e-learning days for all students in kindergarten through grade 12.

In lieu of a traditional snow day – an unexpected day off when weather conditions preclude students and teaching staff from attending school in person – e-learning allows students to learn from home on computer devices connected to the internet.

Sauk Rapids-Rice students now have months of experience learning remotely. In November 2020, the district moved all students, pre-kindergarten through grade 12, to distance learning in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. With infection rates decreasing in Benton County, and COVID19-related absences also declining, the district is returning students to inperson learning models.

In a winter weather protocol document, the district cautioned parents and guardians that this could change.

“Individual building(s) may need to transition to a more restrictive model

ALEXANDRIA – Spencer Trobec, of Rice, and Melissa Kampsula, of Sauk Rapids, have been named to the Alexandria Technical and Community College fall 2020 dean’s list for achieving a 3.5 GPA or greater.

MOORHEAD – Sauk RapidsRice High School graduates Cameron Bauer, Jocelyn Bauer, Amie Britz, Mary Deleon-Escobar, Gage Donovan, Carter Kieke, Angela Konz, Grace Middendorf, Camden

Patterson, Summer Schmidt and Zac Spohn; Sartell High School graduates Emma Gent, Kristina Kirick, Briana Kowalke and Dylan Rehnke; and, additionally, residents of Sartell Rebecca Loehrer, a Little Falls High School graduate, and Autumn Nelsen, a Long Prairie-Grey Eagle Secondary School graduate, have been named to the Minnesota State University-Moorhead fall 2020 dean’s list for achieving a GPA of 3.25 or greater.

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | Page 11

Page 14 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

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On the heels of a disappointing 7-9 a title, one choice is building a wellseason, the Minnesota Vikings are facing rounded roster that can win the battle in some difficult decisions that are going the trenches. to set the course for the future of the The Vikings could also consider a franchise. Let’s not mince words here radical move to upgrade their quarterback – a seven-win season is not acceptable position to raise their competitive for a Vikings team that has committed ceiling. Rumors out of Houston are significant resources to a large group that Deshaun Watson is disenfranchised of veteran players, and the team needs with the team’s leadership, and the to decide whether they want to go allVikings should absolutely be kicking COLUMNIST the tires to determine what it would cost in to compete for a championship or to SPORTS

BY ANDY THAYER begin a rebuilding phase in earnest. Last to acquire him. I am certain it would season’s rebuild-on-the-fly plan clearly require multiple first-round draft picks, did not work and doomed a roster with no depth to but a quarterback that can evade rushers and lead mediocrity. the league in passing after his team traded away There is a substantial body of evidence which his best receiver might just be worth it. To be clear, demonstrates that the core players on this Vikings I am not saying Kirk Cousins is the issue with the roster are not good enough on their own to contend Vikings. He ranked eighth in the NFL in passing for a title. Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook, Adam yards, sixth in touchdowns, second in yards per Thielen, Kyle Rudolph, Danielle Hunter, Eric completion and ninth in completion percentage.

Kendricks, Harrison Smith and Anthony Harris Those are solid numbers, and Cousins is good have been around for years now under head coach enough to win a playoff game (as he demonstrated Mike Zimmer’s leadership, and the team’s record in New Orleans last year) if he is surrounded by has vacillated from 7-9 to 11-5 (with the 13-3 solid teammates and a good game plan. Watson, on season in 2017 being a fun outlier). They are all the other hand, is good enough to carry his team to also being paid handsomely. Those players are all wins on his own. quite good, but we have seen enough at this point to The Vikings cannot run the same roster this fall conclude this core is not going to lead the Vikings and expect a different outcome. Some returning to a Lombardi trophy. defensive starters should improve that unit, but Zimmer and general manager, Rick Spielman, the team’s core is continuing to age. We already need to take a good, hard look at their roster saw decline from players like Harrison Smith, building strategy. For years, this team has Anthony Harris and Kyle Rudolph this season. If neglected the offensive line, preferring to invest in the Vikings do not change their approach, they are defenders and offensive skill position players. This once again going to fall in the same 7-9 to 11-5 approach works fine until the team runs into an borderline-playoff-team purgatory that they have opponent with a strong defensive front, in which blissfully inhabited since Zimmer arrived in 2014. case they are almost certainly doomed. This roster That is neither good enough to win a championship construction strategy is like playing a game of nor bad enough to have a good shot at drafting a paper-rock-scissors – they dominate some teams, franchise-altering quarterback like Watson. As have a 50/50 chance against others depending on we saw this season, the Vikings cannot thread the the flow of the game and have almost no chance needle and rebuild while competing for a playoff against others. Just look at box scores from games spot. They either need to take their medicine and in recent years against teams like the Bears, rebuild or trade draft capital to make a serious run Packers, 49ers and Seahawks, and you’ll see what at a title while their core players are in their prime.

I mean. If the Vikings want to truly contend for

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | Page 15

FOCAL point

An inside look at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School winter sports practices: Part 2 The Storm’n Sabres girls hockey team is observing a quarantine period and therefore is not available for photos.

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Elijah Grabinski glides toward the end of the pool Jan. 11 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Storm swimmers and divers returned to the water Jan. 4 and have been broken into pods to practice safely.

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

A n d r e w Markfelder (right) attempts a layup over Travis Biery Jan. 12 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. For Sauk RapidsRice’s winter sports teams finally making their way back, intensity is high.

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Steven Ritten swims with a kick board Jan. 11 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Ritten and the Storm boys swim and dive team began their season with a meet against Bemidji Jan. 14.

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Sauk Rapids-Rice dance team goes through a routine Jan. 14 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. The Storm’s season begins Jan. 16 at Brainerd.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Sauk Rapids-Rice dance team puts their hands into a huddle Jan. 13 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. The team is one of many to have returned to practice Jan. 4 in preparation for the winter sports season.

Focal Point page 16

Reid Johnson prepares to be rolled onto padding during swim and dive practice Jan. 11 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Johnson and the Storm maintain a high level of confidence heading into what will be a unique winter sports season.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

A farmstead’s red barn offsets a snow- and frostcovered landscape Jan. 9 near Mayhew Lake. Mother nature’s rime ice turned central Minnesota into a winter wonderland during the first full week of January.

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Sauk Rapids Herald | Saturday, January 16, 2021

Participants receive annual payments for land enrolled WASHINGTON – Agricultural producers and private landowners interested in the Conservation Reserve Program can sign up for the program now until Feb. 12.

Administered by United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency, CRP provides annual rental payments for land devoted to conservation purposes.

“This signup for the Conservation Reserve Program gives producers and landowners an opportunity to enroll for the first time or continue their participation for another term,” said Richard Fordyce, FSA administrator.

“This program encourages conservation on sensitive lands or low-yielding acres, which provides tremendous benefits for stewardship of our natural resources and wildlife.”

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50-year toy tractor collection fills Monroes’ basement

Features John Deere, International Harvester tractors

BY JAKOB KOUNKEL STAFF WRITER

FOLEY – Ken and Char Monroe have a relationship founded on their spirituality, faith and love – and collectible toy tractors. For 53 years, the Monroes have been married, and for about that same amount of time, they have been collecting tractors together.

One might be able to tell the Monroes are interested in antique collectibles just from passing by their house on Broadway Avenue in Foley. Drivers can see the four antique gas pumps at the corners of their garages, and an inquisitive mind might venture that one of their garages is extra space for collectibles.

It is.

However, unseen to the hundreds of cars that pass by every day is an extraordinary collection of toy tractors, 50

PHOTO BY JAKOB KOUNKEL

Ken and Char Monroe demonstrate, through a small portion of their toy tractor collection, the logistics of farming at their house in Foley Jan. 13. The Monroes have been collecting toy tractors for 50 years.

years and thousands of miles in the making.

For Char, her fascination with collectibles came from growing up on a farm; for Ken, he frequented his aunt and uncle’s farm in the summer growing up. They share the idea that the sentimental value is more important than

the monetary, as their favorite pieces are those that they remember using as full-size machinery on the farm.

“After we got married, when I went home and started cleaning out some of my stuff, I had a couple of toys that were mine, and we brought those (to our house),” Ken

said. “It kind of just started to take off from there.”

The collection features hundreds of collectible toy tractors – John Deere and International Harvester among the most prominent.

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Some are unassuming items that can be commonly found in collector magazines or online, but some are as unique as they are valuable – in monetary and sentimental value.

In the 1960s, John Deere attempted to break into the suburbs with a line of what became known as patio tractors, but they did not sell well because they did not don the vintage green the company became famous for.

The bodies of the tractors were white, and customers could choose the color of the hood and seat. They could get patio red, sunset orange, spruce blue or April yellow.

When the dealers were pushing the patio series, at the time known as the custom color series, they released a promotional toy set of the four colors of the tractors, which the Monroes got their hands on 45 years ago from a Brainerd-based dealer for $8.

The set of toy tractors, now in vogue partly due to the patio series tractors’ lack of success, could now sell for as much as $4,000, Ken said.

“That’s probably the most valuable thing that we have,” Ken said, unsure of the total value of the entire collection.

Even though they have traveled to Brainerd, and they are no strangers to going even farther for toys worthy of their collection, they have also bought locally. Char thinks one set of tractors they acquired in Sauk Centre is exceptional.

“We have five tractors (in our collection) that are made out of wood,” Char said.

“These were made by a man who lived in Sauk Centre, and every winter he would make a different one out of wood.”

P

u

p

PHOTOS BY JAKOB KOUNKELr

Ken and Char Monroe stand in their basement Jan. 13 at their house in Foley, flanked on both sides by a portion of their toy tractor collection. They have been collecting tractors of this kind for 50 years.

u

The wood set was made up of Farmalls, a Case steam engine and Allis Chalmers branded toy tractors.

Another one of the older and more special pieces they have is also made of wood.

It is modeled after a Minneapolis-Moline, though Ken said it does not look like a Moline except for the colors.

Those collectibles were released during World War II. Char said it was important the couple was fiscally responsible with their collection, especially because they had seven children to raise. For the wooden pieces in Sauk Centre, Ken and Char drove to pick up the tractors individually as money allowed.

Ken even worked on gardens and plowed snow for what they called tractor money.

“When we started collecting, we didn’t have extra money to go out and just buy these,” Char said. “We made up our mind. We’re not taking out of anything that’s going to affect our bill paying, our raising our kids, our budget for food and electricity.”

Despite their successes in securing the collection, the Monroes have put an unofficial moratorium on buying newer collectibles of the same ilk because of how complicated the process has become.

In a garage outside their house in Foley Jan. 13, Ken and Char Monroe have around 105 toy pedal tractors to add to their collection that starts inside their house. Some are one of a kind, and others are more common among collectors.

Char said sometimes a store like Fleet Farm will reintroduce an older model that might interest the avid collectors, but they have mostly stopped bringing on new toys – partly because they are running out of room to put them.

Despite the value of the pieces, the Monroes b never bought a single tractor because they hoped it would one day appreciate for selling purposes. And, none are for sale. It was a form of entertainment for the couple, a means of strengthening an already impermeable bond, though that was not their original intention.

The Monroes do not hunt or fish, nor do they travel much, other than the miles they have driven to surrounding states to pick up the collectibles. Their main form of entertainment was something they both found a passion for, and it is something they can forever look back on with favor.

Even though their accumulating days have mostly come to an end, the tractors serve a litany of purposes to this day. Each tractor has its own journey, its own story of how it got into the Monroes’ collection.

They remind Ken and Char of their days on the farm. They also serve as a history lesson for those who visit.

Most of all, though, the Monroes enjoy the collection for themselves.

All-in-all, over 300 toy tractors sit in a room in their basement – the room dedicated solely for toy tractor display.

They have 105 pedal tractors that line the walls of one of their garages. Around their house, more tractors can be found as decoration.

That is not even counting 55 full-size, functional tractors the Monroes have stored away.

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | Page 3B

The Business of Farming

by Roger Strom

million people is in the worst condition, with little chance of recovery, followed by the aquifer under northern Africa and the Indus Basin aquifer which supplies much of India’s water needs.

Jay Famiglietti, a water scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California said the situation is quite critical, and the water table is dropping all over the world.

Of those water

sources for the United States, California’s Central Valley Aquifer is in the worst condition.

Also in trouble is the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plains Aquifer which is under the southeast coastal states and down into Florida.

The good news is the three aquifers supplying water for those of us in the middle of the country are in pretty good shape.

Not only have the water sources changed, but they determined some of those underground water supplies may be smaller than earlier estimates.

What is not known is how much water is in those aquifers. The satellite data can only measure change not volume.

As for the Central Valley Aquifer, it is estimated that over 100,000 wells are

Extension to offer farm safety webinar series

BY EMILY KREKELBERG UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION & ANGIE JOHNSON NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION

ROCHESTER – University of Minnesota Extension is partnering with North Dakota State University Extension to offer a series of farm safety webinars this winter.

Most people have been impacted in some way by an accident, injury or fatality that has occurred on the farm. These events are devastating to communities and impact the livelihoods of those we know and love dearly. The purpose of these webinars is to empower communities and individuals to prioritize safety on the farm. The webinar series will be at 11 a.m. Thursdays January through March. Each webinar will last one hour.

Jan. 21 – Grain Bin Safety.

Featuring a panel moderated by Angie Johnson, farm and ranch safety program coordinator and extension agent with NDSU Extension.

Panelists include Rich Schock, captain of the Sheyenne Valley Technical Rescue Team, and Ken Hellevang, agricultural engineer with NDSU Extension.

Feb. 4 – Tractor and Equipment Safety. The session covers power takeoff use and safety, roadway safety and a conversation with North Dakota farmers Scott and Elizabeth Huso and their employee, Chase Frederick, who was in an accident on their farm in the past. They will be joined by David Kraft, safety consultant for North Dakota Workforce Safety and Insurance.

Feb. 18 – Youth Farm Safety.

Featuring a panel discussion

moderated by Emily Krekelberg, farm safety and health extension educator with UMN Extension. The panelists include Marsha Salzwedel with the National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety, Jana Davidson with Progressive Agriculture Foundation, and Diane Rohlman with University of Iowa College of Public Health.

They will cover various resources and programs available for families with young farmers.

March 4 – Livestock Safety.

UMN Extension Cattle Production Extension Educator Joe Armstrong, DVM, will discuss and demonstrate proper animal handling in both confinement and pasture systems.

March 18 – Mental Health.

Krekelberg will conduct Question, Persuade, Refer Training, a onehour suicide prevention program that helps individuals learn the three steps anyone can take to help prevent suicide. This training is tailored toward agricultural communities.

The farm safety series is offered free of charge. Participants must register by visiting https://z.umn. edu/farmsafetywebinars.

When registering for the webinar series, participants will have access to join each of the five webinar sessions.

Participants can choose to attend any or all sessions.

Questions can be sent to Emily Krekelberg at krek0033@umn.edu or Angie Johnson at angela.b.johnson@ ndsu.edu.

tapping into it. With the continuing drought, many of those wells are drying up, and well drillers cannot keep up with the demand for deeper wells. On average, people and farms would normally rely on the aquifers for about 35% of their needs, but during the California drought, that percentage increased to 65% and remains above average. Some experts predict California will eventually have to get all of its water from an aquifer that has been dropping 2 feet a year in some areas. Californians will not be the only ones to feel the impact.

That same aquifer supplies over 15% of the groundwater for the entire country.

Based on the NASA findings and predictions for the future, maybe now is the time to reevaluate the spending of millions of dollars to see if there was ever water on Mars. Money that would be better spent on developing an economical and sustainable method of removing salt from ocean water so we can be assured of having enough water and food for future generations on the planet we are inhabiting. … just sayin’.

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The world’s underground sources of water, which 2 billion people rely on, are in serious trouble.

Since 2003, researchers from the University of California Irvine have been working with NASA scientists using their Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment satellites to measure changes in aquifers. They have concluded, as the result of increasing human demand combined with global warming, 21 of the world’s 37 largest aquifers are beyond the tipping point and are being drained faster than they can recharge. The Arabian Aquifer System that serves more than 60

Through CRP, farmers and ranchers establish long-term, resource-conserving plant species, such as approved grasses or trees, to control soil erosion, improve water quality and enhance wildlife habitat on cropland. Farmers and ranchers who participate in CRP help provide numerous benefits to their region and the nation’s environment and economy.

CRP general signup is held annually and is competitive; general signup includes increased opportunities for wildlife habitat enrollment through the State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement initiative.

New cropland offered in the program must have been planted for four of six crop years from 2012-17. Additionally, producers with land already enrolled but expiring Sept. 30 can re-enroll this year.

The acreage offered by producers and landowners is evaluated competitively; accepted offers will begin Oct. 1.

Signed into law in 1985, CRP is one of the largest private-lands conservation programs in the United States. The program marked its 35-year anniversary in December 2020. Program successes include: – Preventing more than 9 billion tons of soil from eroding, which is enough soil to fill 600 million dump trucks.

– Reducing nitrogen and phosphorous runoff relative to annually tilled cropland by 95% and 85%, respectively.

– Sequestering an annual average of 49 million tons of greenhouse gases, equal to taking 9 million cars off the road.

– Creating more than 3 million acres of restored wetlands while protecting more than 175,000 stream miles with riparian forest and grass buffers, which is enough to go around the world seven times.

– Benefiting bees and other pollinators and increasing populations of ducks, pheasants, turkey, bobwhite quail, prairie chickens, grasshopper sparrows, and many other birds.

All USDA service centers are open for business, including those that restrict in-person visits or require appointments. All visitors wishing to conduct business with FSA, Natural Resources Conservation Service or any other service center agency should call ahead and schedule an appointment.

Service centers that are open for appointments will pre-screen visitors based on health concerns or recent travel, and visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines. Visitors are also required to wear a face covering during their appointment.

Program delivery staff will continue to work with producers by phone, email and using online tools.

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Page 6B | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021| SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

BENTON AG Plus

We want your As we head into the new year and begin our fifth year of Benton Ag Plus in February 2021, Star Publications would like our readers to share with us their insight on how we can improve. We strive to engage our readers in every issue and are

feedback!

setting goals to continue telling the stories of our area agricultural community.

Typically, in a year not plagued by the coronavirus pandemic, we can have these conversations face to face at business expos, county fairs

and farm shows. shows That was not the case in 2020.

Please help us by sharing your thoughts on the below template or by emailing us directly at natasha@ saukherald.com.

We greatly appreciate your readership.

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BENTON AG

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 | Page 7B

County conservation tour goes virtual Benton SWCD, NRSC present annual projects via teleconference

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

GRAPHIC COURTESY OF BENTON SWCD

A diagram shows how a water prescription is applied to a field with a variable rate irrigation system. Melarry Farms in Langola Township converted a center pivot system to the new technology for its efficiency.

standing water; other parts are more sandy loom, kind of a mid-range soil, so a lot of variability in the soil,” Gehling said.

With a conventional center pivot irrigation system, water is generally applied in blanket amounts – with saturated soils receiving the same amount of water as soil which has been depleted of moisture.

Dry areas are potentially underwatered while wet areas overwatered. With a variable rate system, Gehling said the overall water usage is reduced and applied more efficiently to match soil needs.

“The dark blue areas would receive 1 inch of

water, the light blue .7, the green areas would get somewhere between .5-.6 inch, light green .4, orange .3, dark orange .2 and the red areas would get .05 of 1 inch of rain,” Gehling said, explaining a diagram of the new system’s water application rates.

Gehling said the Hacketts have reported reduced energy use since the variable rate system installation. Gehling said the energy use reduction is on account of less water pumping but also because the family replaced a diesel-powered pump with an electric pump that has a variable frequency drive.

EQUIP also helped fund

the pump conversion.

Cost can hinder producers from implementing new technology such as the variable rate irrigation system, Gehling said.

He said EQUIP financial assistance is limited and in a project such as this

placed over a 300-by-57foot manure pit that allows for 12 months, or 1.9 million gallons, of storage.

The pit was constructed with precast sidewalls and a slatted concrete floor, allowing the animal waste to fall into the container from above. The facility can now house up to 500 steers annually.

“For this project, the majority of the work was done in 2019,” McMillin said. … “ It was just finished up. He finally got cattle in it early this winter, early in 2020. And, he’s been so happy with it he’s actually thinking about adding on to it.”

The two projects are only a small look into work completed by Benton SWCD and NRCS in 2020. A larger selection of projects – which include wetland restoration, erosion control, stacking slabs and cover crops – is available to read, listen and view about at soilandwater.org.

The complete 2020 Tour of Practices teleconference presentation, booklet and slideshow, as well as videos shown during the presentation, are available.

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SAUK RAPIDS – Like many events in 2020, the Benton Soil and Water Conservation District’s and National Resource Conservation Service’s Tour of Practices was postponed and modified into a virtual event. The presentation, which typically is a day-long bus tour throughout the county, featured 14 conservation project sites through a two-hour teleconference Dec. 4, 2020. Benton SWCD and NRSC staff presented the information using a slideshow and video while commenting live on the projects and fielding questions from the roughly 40 participants.

“One of the advantages of a virtual tour is it does allow us to tour the entire county rather than focusing on a part of the county like we do on a conventional bus tour,” said Pat Gehling, NRCS District Conservationist, after being introduced by Benton SWCD District Manager Gerry Maciej at the beginning of the event.

One project shared at the event was an irrigation conversion made at Melarry Farms, operated

by Mel and Darlene Hackett and Spencer and Stacey Hackett in Langola Township. In spring 2020, the Hacketts replaced a center pivot irrigation system with a variable rate system as part of a cost-share with the Environmental Quality Incentives Program.

Gehling said the variable rate system allows the Hacketts to use a prescription when applying water to their field.

“This is new and unique,” Gehling said. “To the best of our knowledge, this is the first and only variable rate system in the county.”

Gehling said the United States Department of Agriculture classifies soils based on drainage, ranging from very poorly drained to excessively drained. He said on the Hacketts field most of the soil is excessively drained but that both ends of the spectrum are represented on the plot.

“Parts of the field have

likely covers about 10% of the total project cost.

“Hopefully in time the cost will come down,” Gehling said of the irrigation technology.

A second project shared was a building and manure pit installed

by Mike Hess, who lives south of Gilman. Hess replaced an open 2.5-acre dirt feedlot, where he raised over 100 steers, with the structure to improve animal health and address groundwater and surface water pollution concerns.

The project was assisted by the EQIP program, a Minnesota Department of Agriculture Livestock Investment Grant and landowner contributions.

“Based on the soils out there, there wasn’t a whole lot we could do with what we typically do – filter strips stuff like that,” said Mike McMillin, Benton SWCD technician. “So, what we were left with was abandoning the open lot, moving the animals from the farm they were on to his home farm where they milked and putting in a roof structure and a manure pit.”

A 340-by-74-foot enclosed building was