Sauk Rapids Herald - May 30 edition

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Saturday, May 30, 2020

Vol. 166, No. 8

Same Local Coverage Since 1854. • 2 Second Ave. S., Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379

Counties coordinate master plan for parks

BY JAKOB KOUNKEL STAFF WRITER

FOLEY – When Benton County sent an application to the Greater Minnesota Parks and Trails Commission to designate Bend in the River Regional Park in Rice as an official regional park – which means the county could then apply for state legacy grants – the Greater Minnesota Trails and Parks Commission denied its application.

Little did Benton County officials know, around the same time, Stearns County was attempting the same thing for its park across the river. Mississippi River County Park was also denied.

Bend in the River page 3

Drive-in

Commencement PHOTO BY ANNA HINKEMEYER

Cole Bonovsky waves to community members along Second Street North May 26 in Sauk Rapids. The class of 2020 was led by police and fire department vehicles on a recessional parade through Sauk Rapids following the commencement ceremony.

Commencement page 2

Take a seat

outside

Sauk Rapids community, administration prepare for phased opening

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER | STAFF WRITER

S

AUK RAPIDS – Bars and restaurants within the Sauk Rapids community were abruptly shut down at 5 p.m. March 17.

Some shut their doors completely while others have attempted takeout and delivery options.

When Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz released the first phase of reopening for bars and restaurants May 20, what came was unexpected.

“I wasn’t expecting it to be just patio seating,” said Sarah Apple, manager of Rock Creek Coffeehouse. “We had already been talking about having 25% capacity inside.”

Reopening page 4

PUBLIC NOTICES

Goal is to receive regional designation for funding purposes

• City of Sauk Rapids Financial Summary Report for 2019 - pg. 15, 16 and 17 • City of Sauk Rapids Reg. Minutes, May 11, 2020 - pg. 17 • City of Sauk Rapids Special Audit Meeting, May 11, 2020 - pg. 16 • City of Sauk Rapids Ord. No. 2020-786 Summary - pg. 16 • Minnesota Board of Pardons Legal Notice - pg. 16

PHOTO BY ANNA HINKEMEYER

Aaron Salzer stands outside of Old Capital Tavern May 21 in Sauk Rapids. Salzer owns the restaurant, which will be open to outdoor seating June 1.

OBITUARIES • Marilyn P. Bogert • Irene A. Wolbeck

ST R

Publications The newspaper of today is the history of tomorrow.

NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | Page 3

Bend in the River from front

PHOTOS BY ANNA HINKEMEYER

Graduating seniors and their families gather in vehicles for a drive-in commencement ceremony May 26 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Due to state guidelines, a drive-in or a drive-thru ceremony were the only in-person options for commencement.

Commencement from page 2

“To be blunt, it sucks,” Fuchs said. “It’s heartbreaking, unfair and so much less than we deserve. This was supposed to be our year, and no one can understand the feeling we have of the senior year we worked so hard for being ripped away from us.

However, every generation has a story to tell and this is ours. This loss does not overshadow all the memories we shared, nor the hard work we have put in. We cannot let this loss define our time at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, but rather let it be defined by the thousands of good memories we made and will cherish for a lifetime.”

While the seniors reflected on the lost memories, faculty speaker Brenda Foy encouraged the graduates to look toward the future. She began her speech by defining the word commencement, which means to begin.

She quoted parts of William Faulkner’s speech to his daughter’s graduating class in 1951 on how individuals can change the world.

F o y spoke of the compassion, maturity, hard work, curiosity, laughter and the few tears she has seen and experienced alongside the class of 2020. She reflected on some of her fondest memories of the past year,

Two vehicles were decorated by Keegan Lembcke’s family to honor him during the May 26 commencement ceremony. Many vehicles were decorated with signs, paint, balloons and streamers.

comprehend it,” Sinclair said. “Graduates, my hope is your experience this year brings into focus your priorities and what’s really important. I hope it instills a sense of drive to pursue your goals and passions and encourages you all to see this as a foundation to build upon as you begin this next step in your journey.”

Following the commencement ceremony, the class of 2020 was led by city police and fire departments on a recessional parade from the high school to downtown Sauk Rapids. Community members, friends and family lined the streets to cheer on and congratulate the graduates.

The school hosted fireworks later in the evening at the school.

“On behalf of the staff here at the high school and across the district, I wish you a bright future, one where you all have security, safety, acceptance, friendship and adventure,” Foy said. “We honor each one of you on this special day. And as you commence in the new chapters of your life, class of 2020, Trygve Hanson celebrates as he rides through the class of 2020 recessional May 26 in Sauk Rapids. In addition to the parade, the graduating class was also celebrated with remember you will always have a home here at Sauk a fireworks show.

Rapids-Rice High School and a loving place in our Storm hearts.” such as the student-staff dodgeball tournament and the evening she and her family had the opportunity to watch both a boys basketball game and a boys swim meet.

In his welcome speech, superintendent Aaron Sinclair spoke of the great adversity exemplified by the graduating class.

“The class of 2020 is one of extreme adversity so unique that most can’t

A state-level employee told a Stearns County official that had the counties applied for regional designation together, approval would have been more likely. So, the two counties are now working together on a master plan.

“My response was, ‘That sounds like a great idea,’” said Monty Headley, Benton County Administrator. “If that’s a path to get regional designation, that’s wonderful.”

In submitting a master plan for both, Benton County Parks Board Chair Mary Kivi said she has high hopes the state designates the parks as regional.

Although Benton and Stearns county commissioners have not yet approved the master plan, the proposal may be headed to both June 2. Kivi said she expects the proposal to pass, even if the items are added to the agendas later than next week. Headley is unsure if the master plan will be taken to the Benton County Board that soon.

“This is something everybody wants,” Kivi said. “There are so many people that visit the parks.

If we can do a lot of neat stuff, … it would be better for all.”

After the June 2 meetings, if the boards pass the item, the counties will send a unified application to the Greater Minnesota Parks and Trails Commission.

“This is a way of encouraging the two counties to coordinate,” Headley said. “For us, this was probably about the only path to regional designation.

This is the key to opening the door to legacy fund grants.”

The parks, whether receiving regional park designation or not, will still be separate entities. Benton and Stearns counties will be responsible for maintenance for their own parks separately from each other.

“I’m excited to be a part of it,” Kivi said. “(It is about) the people who like the simple things in life like walking with their kids, biking with kids, taking kids to the park. It’s the simple things in life that make me really proud of the families in this community.”

Headley and Kivi said the community played a role in offering suggestions for the future of the park through an online survey. Kivi said seeing people take a special interest and seeing the potential for the park is inspiring to her.

“That doesn’t happen everywhere,” she said.

Although nothing is concrete as far as recreational planning, Headley said community input was clear there is a desire for more trails, a shelter structure for family get-togethers, and other activities like archery and disc golf. The two latter activities might be a longer way off than the more traditional park amenities, but it is something the parks commission left open for future consideration, Headley said.

Both Headley and Kivi agreed it does not make sense to look too far into the future when the county boards still have to pass the master plans.

Kivi said, if unsuccessful in getting the item passed by the county boards or receiving regional designation, the parks commission will continue working to find a solution.

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NEWS

Page 4 | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Reopening from front

Rock Creek, along with Old Capital Tavern and others in the community, are now trying to prepare outdoor seating for 50 people or less beginning June 1. Matt Buhs, co-owner of Rock Creek, will ask neighboring businesses for permission to expand with tables in front of their storefronts. Old Capital Tavern will utilize public parking spaces along Division Street adjacent to the business.

As part of the emergency executive order, Old Capital Tavern will take call-in reservations but not invest in an online system. Aaron Salzer, owner of Old Capital Tavern, said resources are already tight and investing in outdoor seating will be difficult as is.

“Gov. Walz is mandating how I operate my business,” Salzer said.

“We have been closed for two months, and now he

is telling us we can only do outdoor patio seating.

We have to invest more money we don’t have into more patio furniture and canopies. Numerous bars and restaurants in the state don’t even have the capability to put outdoor dining in place.

When we were shut down, we went from a full-service restaurant to basically a glorified McDonald’s. Now we are going to have to operate in an environment that doesn’t make any sense.”

The Sauk Rapids City Council passed an ordinance at its May 26 meeting to allow restaurants and bars to expand into sidewalks, parking lots and public parking spaces. The Sauk Rapids Housing and Redevelopment Authority is also working on potential programs to assist businesses financially.

Sauk Rapids Community Development Director Todd Schultz said allowing expansion felt like the first place for the city to start, something he said was in the

PHOTO BY ANNA HINKEMEYER

Matt Buhs stands amidst the sidewalk seating area in front of Rock Creek Coffeehouse May 26 in Sauk Rapids. The coffeehouse will open for walk-in ordering and outdoor seating for up to 50 people June 1.

works prior to Walz’s announcement. Schultz said parking at many establishments is based on building capacity. When businesses are not allowed to seat more than

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Schultz said. “As they start to come out of this, we want to think about ways we can help some of those businesses and give them a little bit of a head start.”

While Salzer looks forward to welcoming returning customers, he said operating at a capacity of 50 people could be detrimental to his business which is already in a dire situation. Salzer closed Cabin Fever in Little Falls permanently.

Salzer bought Cabin Fever two years ago and has been vulnerable to ups and downs within the first years of business.

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced bars

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50 customers outdoors, expansion into parking lots and sidewalks is easier.

As part of the ordinance, businesses are required to submit a drawing to the city so it can be approved by the police, public works and building code departments as well as the fire marshal.

The process becomes administrative in nature, not requiring any additional permits, Schultz said.

“We know a number of our businesses have been struggling, especially the ones that haven’t been able to be open because of the governor’s orders,”

Erik: 320-761-5909 • Josh: 320-339-4540 Office: 844-275-4776 3622 30th Street SE #2 • St. Cloud, MN 56304 WWW.MY EX TER IO R P R O.CO M

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and restaurants to close for over two months, the restaurant could not survive.

Salzer said if he is not open at full capacity June 1, Old Capital Tavern has approximately a 30% survival rate.

“It is going to cost us more to run our restaurant for 50 people than it costs to run our restaurant normally,” Salzer said. “Making money is not going to happen. We are going to do everything we can to make it and do it right, but unless bars and restaurants are open without restrictions, most of them won’t make it. Honestly, we all need it. My employees need a job and need income. We need help, or we won’t be here.”

Rock Creek Coffeehouse has not seen the same hit as the sit-down bar and restaurant, partly because of the community’s use of its drive-thru.

The coffee, pastry, sandwich and ice cream venue has taken a 20% loss in revenue, and the staff is eager to take walk-in orders June 1 with seating options available outdoors.

Mary Kay Buhs, co-owner of the coffeehouse, said they have had requests to walk in and order food to-go since the mandated closure.

The doors to the coffeehouse have been locked, but people walking or biking will come through the drive-thru and sit on the tables in front of the business.

“I think a lot of our regulars come through the drive-thru, but you just don’t have that oneon-one connection with everyone that comes in,” Apple said. “I think that’s the heart of any business, just customer service and knowing your people.

We are excited to welcome everyone back as soon as we can.”

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

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

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

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NEWS/OBITUARIES

Council expands outdoor seating through end of year

Interim ordinance will need to e be renewed after Jan. 1

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BY NATASHA BARBER

STAFF WRITER e , SAUK RAPIDS – e dMayor Kurt Hunstiger led athe May 26 Sauk Rapids eCity Council meeting with ta proclamation recognizing the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School class of 2020. eThe message came shortly nbefore the district hosted ycommencement for the students and their imme.diate families through a drive-in ceremony.

The week of May 24 was dedicated to the class, fwho Hunstiger said, “will nbe our future leaders, pioneers, creators, motivators and role models.” Following the acknowledge,ment, the council returned to regular business via its dZoom teleconference call.

Reactions to restricd tions of the COVID-19 e .pandemic were at the forefront as they have been for ,the past two months.

The council approved r han interim ordinance they nhope will allow the city’s ebars and restaurants to gain revenue despite carpacity restrictions in place hthrough Minnesota Gov. uTim Walz’s phased reopening approach. As of hJune 1, bars and restaurants can open to outdooronly in-person dining at a ,capacity of 50 people.

Because business d .parking is often based on capacity of each venue, community development director Todd Schultz said it made sense for the city to allow expansion of outdoor seating into parking areas given these spots would remain vacant. The interim ordinance also al-

lows for expansion into sidewalks and public parking spaces, and the council additionally approved that staff could work with business owners regarding closure of roadways in the event it becomes necessary.

Business owners will apply through and work with city staff rather than needing council approval, and all fees will be waived through the end of the interim ordinance which expires Dec. 31. Council members expressed the need for the allowances in spring 2021, but given legal limitations, the interim ordinance will need reapproval after Jan. 1, 2021, should they wish to extend it at that time.

In addition to the interim ordinance, Schultz said the housing and redevelopment authority is considering a $5,000 or less grant program for small businesses negatively affected by the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The money could be used for patio furniture, personal protective equipment and other precautions put in place by businesses and would be retroactive if businesses have already purchased these items. The HRA has yet to take any action.

As the conversation shifted to reopening city facilities, no action took place. Hunstiger and council members Nick Sauer, Dottie Seamans and Jason Ellering had split opinions.

Hunstiger said he wanted to wait to hear council member Ellen Thronson’s views before putting the

matter to a vote. Thronson was absent from Tuesday’s meeting.

The council is expected to decide next week as to whether or not the June 8 meeting will take place in person. If so, it will be the first order of business at that meeting.

Hunstiger said if the council resumes in-person meetings, it should do so before requiring other boards and commissions to follow suit.

In other council news: – An update on compost site stickers was given by Pete Eckhoff, public works director. Eckhoff said the city plans to begin selling compost stickers online or through the mail beginning June 1.

The public would not be required to have a sticker until July 1.

– Road construction projects are slated to begin.

River Avenue improvements will begin June 1; Benton Drive South improvements (from Eighth Avenue South to Highway 10) are expected to begin June 15.

– Approved the amusement permit for the Sauk Rapids Market to take place Thursdays from 3-6 p.m. June 4 through Oct. 8 in the Coborn’s parking lot in Sauk Rapids. According to the correspondence with the city, the market will be drive-thru with one entrance and one exit. Vendors are required to wear masks and sanitize between each interaction.

Customers will not have contact with product prior to purchase.

– Approved purchasing six poll pads and corresponding software in preparation for the primary and general elections.

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | Page 5

Irene A. Wolbeck

Irene A. (Stangler) Wolbeck passed away at 7:30 a.m., May 24, 2020.

God has called her home.

Irene was born April 2, 1928, at home in St. Rosa to Frank and Christina (Arnzen) Stangler.

She married Martin H. Wolbeck May 17, 1948. They lived in St. Cloud and Sartell all their married life.

She raised six children while working as a waitress at the Commodore in Sartell and 30 years at the Ace Bar in St. Cloud.

She enjoyed life, camping, music, her trips to the Sauk Rapids VFW to see her favorite bartenders, fishing, flowers and her birds.

Her favorite holiday was Thanksgiving and celebrating with family at

FOLEY – The Benton County Government Center in Foley has resumed walk-in traffic.

The motor vehicles, license, auditor-treasurer, development, land services and administration de-

partments are open to the public. Capacity is limited, so waiting outdoors may be required.

Those seeking assistance for driver’s license or other motor vehicle items are encouraged to

Pedros.

She is remembered by her family making all the kids their own favorite dessert (her famous chocolate cake or rice crispy bars). Many people remember her kindness as a waitress, and she received The Waitress of the Year award in 1996.

She was a member of St. Francis Church, Sartell, lifetime member of the Sauk Rapids VFW Auxiliary 6992 and

Marilyn P. Borgert

Graveside services were 12:30 p.m. May 28 at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Sartell for Marilyn “Lynn” P. Borgert who passed away May 22, 2020, at the St. Cloud Hospital. There was a private family visitation at the funeral home prior to the burial Thursday.

The family will have a memorial Mass at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Sartell at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Sauk Rapids.

Marilyn “Lynn” P. Borgert was born Aug. 12, 1934, in St. Cloud to Alvin and Florence (Bastien) Woods. She was united in marriage to Eugene “Gene” Borgert Sept. 17, 1955, at St. Mary’s Cathedral Church in St. Cloud. They lived all of their lives in St. Cloud and Sartell. Lynn was very artistic, owning and operating Ceramic Pines ceramic shop

Marilyn P. Borgert

with her husband for 20 years. She retired as a receptionist at the north information desk at the St. Cloud Hospital after 25 years. Lynn was very active in the St. Francis Xavier Church and was a member of the Christian Mothers. She was also very active in the Riverside Lions Club in Sauk Rapids for many years. Lynn enjoyed sewing, painting, decorating for Christmas, traveling, gardening, cooking, and baking. Lynn was very proud of her family. She loved getting together with them at holidays, family reunions, and at the cabin on Pelican

Lake.

Lynn is survived by her husband, Gene of Sartell; children, Scott (Susan Whalen) of Memphis, Tennessee, Denise (Daniel) Stang of Sartell, Pamela (Jim) McMahon of St. Cloud, and Timothy of Sartell; siblings, Marjorie (Warren) Bystedt, Judy (Donald) Bryam, Suzanne (David) Fritz, Michael (Jean) Woods, Sharon (Robert) Bemboom, Patrick Woods, Nancy (Edward) Johnson, Laurie (Maury) Bloom, and Malia (Grant) Golberg; brother in law, Michael O’Connor; sister in law, Judy Woods; grandchildren, Kristopher, Joshua, Jason, Mathew, Amber, Sarah, Dina, James, Sean, Kelsey, Willow, Summer, Cody, and Autumn; and 21 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Anita O’Connor; and brother, John Woods.

Obituary, guest book and video tribute available online at https://www. williamsdingmann.com.R-22-1P

Congratulations

Benton County Government Center reopens Human services, courts, sheriff ’s office remain closed

Irene A. Wolbeck

lifetime member of the Sauk Rapids Legion Auxiliary 254.

She is survived by her children, Darlene (Mark) Lauderbaugh, Burnsville; Roger (Karen) Wolbeck, Royalton; Carol (Rob) MacLean, Clearwater, Florida; Jerry (Vicky) Wolbeck, Missouri; Allen (Betty) Wolbeck, Melrose; Donna (Joe) Gertken, Foley; 13 grandchildren; 33 greatgrandchildren, brothers Ralph and Tom Stangler.

She was proceeded in death by the love of her life husband, Martin, who passed away Aug. 20, 2016; her brothers, Don, Norbert and Clarence; and her sisters, Margaret Paulson, Regina Bergman, Marie Heitzman and Alice Stangler.

A celebration of life will be at a later date. R-22-1P

C.M. Tadych

of Sauk Rapids

make an appointment by calling 320-968-5010.

Although open, the county encourages the public to consider online options.

Humans services, the courts facility and sheriff’s office remain closed to walk-in visitors.

You are the winner of the Benton County word search!

Thank you for supporting local businesses.

R22-1F-KH

Your Manea’s Meats of Sauk Rapids gift card is compliments of Star Publications

Page 6 | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Flowering trees

On Tuesday morning, my front sidewalk was covered with what looked like pink snow. It was the petals of the crabapple blossoms that had been blown off by the wind. There are several species of smaller trees that flower in the spring. GREEN & GROWING Trees, meaning plants IN BENTON COUNTY with a single trunk, con- BY LINDA G. TENNESON trast to a multi-stemmed shrub. Many of these trees produce fruit, although usually too small to be useful. Check the tree labels for Minnesota or Wisconsin strain or zone 4 hardy to avoid purchasing a tree meant for a southern climate.

The crabapple is the most popular and may be planted in spring or fall. Depending on the variety, this tree may reach 20 feet in height and 15 feet wide. Look for a disease resistant variety to avoid apple scab and other diseases. Crabapple blooms may be white but are more commonly a shade of pink and red. The tiny apples on the common varieties are food for birds. Recommended University of Minnesota varieties are Flame, Radiant, Sparkler and Vanguard. The prunus family includes several varieties of cherries and plums. All of them will grow in this area and produce fruit. The Nanking cherry is a smaller tree from this family that may reach 10 feet tall and spreads quite wide. Its pale pink blossoms do not last a long time, but the tree is quite attractive while in bloom. Plant two or more of these trees to allow for pollination and fruit production. The cherries from this tree are quite small and of limited value because of the large pits or stones with only a small amount of edible flesh. The flowering plum tree grows bigger, reaching 20-25 feet in height and nearly as wide.

The spring flowers are pink or white. In a good year, it produces fruit useful for jelly, provided the gardener harvests it before the birds do. Princess Kay and Newport are two recommended varieties.

Newport has dark purple foliage.

Another flowering tree is the Japanese tree lilac. The bark of this tree is attractive, and the large, white blooms appear every other year later than other spring flowering trees. The blossom scent is agreeable but not quite as nice as that of the common or hybrid lilac bushes. The blossoms become seeds which drop and germinate easily. The Stearns County Historical Museum has several planted in front of the main entrance. The redbud may have multiple stems or a single trunk. The University of Minnesota strain, Cercis canadensis, grows 12 feet tall and wide. It is considered an understory tree, meaning it will grow in full sun or light shade. It provides interesting heart-shaped leaves and dark pink to purple flowers that emerge in spring before the leaves.

Check https://www.extension.umn.edu/fruit/ growing-stone-fruits-home-garden#apricots-andpeaches-682264 for varieties of stone fruits – apricots, cherries, peaches and plums – that will grow in zone 4. These trees will bloom, but a late frost may damage the blossoms and prevent fruit from forming that season. A final suggestion is planting dwarf apple trees which are created when a desired scion wood is grafted onto a dwarf rootstock providing spring flowers and fruit.

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

Letters to the editor welcome Letters to the editor and other opinion articles are welcome.

Letters must be signed with a first and last name and include an address and phone number. Letters should be under 400 words and to the point, and be submitted by 10 a.m. Friday.

Anything over 400 words will be charged accordingly.

E-mail to natasha@saukherald.com

EDITORIAL

Be brave, recognize, forgive

By now, we should be able to make “Pride is the complete anti-God state of sense of the insensible. We should be able mind. It is ‘The Great Sin’ that leads to all to decipher what is happening when civil other sins, because pride is the exaltation fights break out and wars abroad are ragof self above all authority, even God’s auing. If you need help making sense of it, thority.” let me try to help you by this record in God said through Ezekiel to Satan, history: “Your heart became proud on account of There was a day when the sons of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisGod came to present themselves before dom because of your splendor. Therefore, the Lord, and Satan also came among I cast you to the ground.” them. The Lord said to Satan, “From If pride is the ugliest sin and denyLIFE BY FAITH where do you come?” Satan answered, ing God’s invitation for salvation by the “From going to and from on the earth, and BY MERCY NYGAARD Holy Spirit is the unforgivable sin (Matfrom walking back and forth on it.” Satan thew 12:30-32), then let us let grace upwas wreaking havoc everywhere he went, and after root pride and take hold of humility which is the his reply, God tested Job to the brink and unleashed presence of love. Let me try to say that a different Satan on him. What is happening today is not what way. We do not want to be like Satan or let him make happened to Job, but as God tells us in 1 Peter 5:8, us puppeteers. We indeed are all sinners so we must “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the lay down our pride. We must accept the Holy Spirits devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking invitation to receive salvation through believing in someone to devour.” He has never stopped since he Jesus as the son of God and making God Lord of our fell on earth. lives. We must love God with everything and love We have the COVID-19 crisis with people in others in sincere humility, esteeming others better fear for their health. We have jobs being dropped than ourselves. The injustices of this world will not consistently in the ripple effect. Christians are argu- go unpunished. ing about church and masks. Parents are angry with When we have a disconnect between person and schools not honoring their kids graduation the way leadership or person and authority, it takes great selfthey want them to. So, why not add racial division to ishness and pride to demand recognition and mock the recipe? those in authority with dissent and rebellion. It takes Satan is having his way every time we quarrel. great humility to say, “How can I serve and help Stand up for justice? Absolutely. Make peace and bridge the gap between our differences and extinforgive accordingly. One act of dissent can fuel de- guish the flames of hate?” The truth is, I do not know struction, but one act of forgiveness and love can all of your fears. I do not know your hurts, what has bring peace and justice because God will attend to been taken from you or injustices imposed on you, those in powerful positions for their evil deeds. Who so I cannot demand of you to forgive without comdo you think is whispering in the individual ears passion. No, it is with compassion for all of your that stirs up dissension within? Who do you think is pain that I know the only way to peace is through whispering in the ears of those led to forgive? love and forgiveness. We have to start recognizing Ephesians tells us to get rid of all bitterness, rage the schemes of the devil and combat his attempts and anger, brawling and slander, along with every with love. It is not cowardly to forgive. It is one of form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one the bravest things a person can do. another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you.

Imagine what would happen if the families of wrongly killed victims acted as Elizabeth Elliot, waving a banner of forgiveness because they could see what was truly behind the act of violence. Imagine people up in arms, ready to demand justice and invoke revenge, witnessing the family slowly walking up with a white flag and a posture of forgiveness. Just as the centurion exclaimed after witnessing Jesus surrender to the brutality and crucifixion and pleading for his Father to forgive them, “Truly this is the Son of God,” witnesses should exclaim.

“Truly this is love.”

Do you know what cast Satan down from heaven in the first place? It was his pride. C.S. Lewis said,

EDITORIAL

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | Page 7

My message to the graduates This column is directed to the senior ers, but you could not walk across the class of 2020. stage to shake the hands of your principal, First of all, congratulations. Amidst the superintendent and school board memCOVID-19 pandemic, a lot of people bebers before receiving your diploma cover lieve the feelings of missing out on senior and turning your tassel. year milestones are not valid, and that peoI know the ceremony was both celple are dying from this disease, so you are ebratory and somber, honoring your innot allowed to feel the way you do. I believe credible accomplishments but recognizthat is a lie. Your feelings and missing the ing the hard fight and the lack of proper lasts with your friends are extremely valid. ON THE SIDELINES in-person celebration. But it is important When I think back to my graduation BY ANNA HINKEMEYER to recognize the school did everything from Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in they could in their power to celebrate and 2010, there are fond memories of senior prom, gradu- honor you. They saw the importance in having as ation day with my friends and family, the graduation much of a celebration as possible and kept many aslock-in, and all of the lasts with my friends and class- pects of the traditional ceremony. And, you even got mates. My heart breaks for you, knowing you were your own fireworks show. That is certainly something not able to experience any of this. to remember.

The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting everyone, So, this is my message to the graduates: Know and I am not immune. My best friend graduated with you are not going unrecognized, that your feelings two master’s degrees in Phoenix this spring. Instead and memories missed are incredibly valid, and you of walking across the stage, they had a virtual ceremo- matter amidst all of the world chaos. ny, and it seemed as if her hard work and persistence I am praying for your peace and guidance along was not being rewarded properly. I know my feelings this journey of ending your high school career and for her, and all 2020 graduates, are the same. She was transitioning into what comes next, whether college, also supposed to be getting married this weekend but working or the military. Your perseverance and dethat was postponed. termination of graduating through a pandemic only On Tuesday evening, the SRRHS class of 2020 exemplifies your strength, courage and commitment. was given the opportunity to gather once more in a I admire you, I honor you, and I am cheering you on drive-in graduation ceremony. I know in talking with as best I can. school and district administration this is not what they Congratulations to the SRRHS class of 2020. wanted for you. You gathered in the parking lot and Thank you for allowing me and the Sauk Rapids Herwere forced to stay in your vehicles. You listened to ald to be alongside you in your high school journey speeches and heard your name called over the speak- and beyond. Take care and God bless.

BREAK CROSSWORD

Letters to Editor

We miss the Marching Storm

Accolades

James Hovda, American Legion Post 473 adjutant Our annual Memorial Day (abbreviated) services at three cemeteries in Rice were conducted by American Legion Post 473. Without our high school band, it was disappointing to all who attended, making everyone present realize the importance of music at these events.

Music and the military are a married couple.

Their music makes every event they attend special.

Our military pays special attention to music. The major military bands garner national attention.

I am not sure if all of the band members realize the importance their presence at events, especially events honoring people or nations. Each of the members deserve our heartfelt thanks for their dedication to this endeavor.

James Hovda, Rice Accolades to your staff writer Evan Michealson for his excellent article about the ceremony honoring fallen law enforcement officers on the national Peace Officers Memorial Day, May 15. State and local law enforcement participated as well as United States Marshal Ramona Dohman, representing the federal part of law enforcement. His well-researched article provided your readers interesting information about the marshal service as well as noting that the first Minnesota fallen law enforcement officer was Deputy Marshal Clement McCausland, end of watch March 27, 1872.

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NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | Page 9

Dinger combines loves for outdoors, pottery during pandemic

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Danielle Dinger sits at the Bend in the River Park in Rice last fall, holding a mug similar to those she has hidden in trails and parks around Sauk Rapids and St. Cloud. Dinger thought a pottery treasure hunt would be a good way for outdoors fun during the pandemic, while restrictions limit entertainment possibilities.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

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Monday, June 1, 6 p.m. – Rice City Council Meeting. Rice City Hall, 205 E. Main St., Rice.

Tuesday, June 2, 9 a.m. – Benton County Board of Commissioners Meeting. Benton County Administration Building, 531 Dewey St., Foley.

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creative ways to be a Dinger said. “What talblessing – creative ways ent or skills do I have that to bring joy to people,” can be a blessing?”

Dinger’s business, Pottery by Dane, has been impacted by policies resulting from the novel coronavirus similarly to other businesses. Forced to forgo four shows, she has not let the COVID-19 pandemic deter her eagerness to be a light during a dark time.

Dinger is giving away the pottery she prepared for the shows, and the only requirement is people get up, get outside and start looking.

The Pottery by Dane Instagram account posts a photo of the mug or bowl with a few clues and the #ArtHuntStCloud hashtag. By social media influence and word of mouth alone, people from the area start PHOTO SUBMITTED A piece of pottery is tucked inside a fallen tree trunk. hunting, and it has not Danielle Dinger, of Pottery by Dane, has been hiding yet taken anyone more artwork in area trails and parks, including those in Sauk than a couple of hours to Rapids. find success. So far, for

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knows she wants to continue providing treasure hunt opportunity through the duration of the pandemic, maybe even beyond. Other artists have joined along, dropping art and cards around the St. Cloud area. Dinger hopes the idea turns into something bigger, where more people are joining in on the fun.

Crime and public safety

Rice man charged with vehicular homicide SAUK RAPIDS – Ricky Freitag, 57, of Rice, reported to law enforcement May 26 after a warrant had been filed four days earlier.

Freitag has been charged with felony criminal vehicular homicide stemming from a Feb. 12 crash on Highway 15 in Stearns County. Freitag faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment and a $20,000 fine.

According to a criminal complaint filed with Stearns County, shortly before 8 p.m. Feb. 12 the Minnesota State Patrol was dispatched to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 15 in Maine Prairie Township where a 67-year-old Kimball man died as a result of the collision. The complaint reports that Freitag had consumed alcohol prior to the crash, and after declining to a preliminary breath test at the scene, had a blood test executed later that evening which resulted in a .101 blood alcohol concentration.

The complaint states Freitag was traveling at or around the posted 60 mph speed limit when he hit a patch of ice, lost control of his vehicle and crashed broadside into the driver’s door.

The complaint states traveling at the posted speed limit was excessive for the weather conditions that evening.

Sauk Rapids man arrested for fleeing police, drugs SAUK RAPIDS – A Sauk Rapids man’s failed attempt at fleeing police ended him in jail May 21.

Blake Deppa, 18, is facing felony counts of fleeing police and fifth-degree controlled substance after attempting to evade law enforcement on a motorcycle.

Deppa is also charged with a misdemeanor for possessing metal knuckles.

According to a criminal complaint filed with Benton County, Deppa drove past a Benton County Deputy shortly after 5 p.m. May 21 in Sauk Rapids Township, and Deppa immediately took off at a high rate of speed upon noticing the deputy. The deputy saw the motorcycle began passing cars on the left-hand side and crossing the double yellow lines of the roadway, so the deputy activated lights and pursued the motorcycle.

With assistance from the Sauk Rapids Police Department and another deputy, law enforcement tried to stop Deppa who eventually lost control of his bike and crashed.

Law enforcement located the equivalent of over 1.5 pounds of marijuana as well as THC cartridges and wax.

Deppa faces five years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine for the controlled substance and three years imprisonment and a $5,000 fine for fleeing officers in motor vehicle.

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FOLEY – Combining a passion for the outdoors, hiking and pottery, Danielle Dinger is using her talents during the pandemic to bring joy to people the way she knows best: through artwork and nature. Dinger is leaving quality pottery on area trails and in parks for anybody to find – a sort of treasure hunt with clues included.

Dinger has placed various forms of her work in Sauk Rapids and St. Cloud, including in Sauk Rapids Lions Sunset Park, River Bluffs Regional Park, Riverside Park and along Beaver Island Trail. But, she is not done yet.

“I just wanted to find

side,” Dinger said. “I do love bringing awareness to trails that are there that people didn’t know about. And I do love the idea of brightening somebody’s day with something simple.

It brings joy, and if I can share joy in this way, it’s a gift to me.”

Although she does not have plans for the long-term future, Dinger

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BY JAKOB KOUNKEL STAFF WRITER

the hunters, it has been a simple and effective form of outdoor, active entertainment.

“I thought it would incentivize people to get outside,” Dinger said, adding that her prediction was correct. “It takes the uncertainty out of life when you hear the birds are still chirping and the wind is still moving.”

And for Dinger, an avid hiker and advocate for the outdoors, it is also a way to bring awareness to the area’s trail systems and parks. She hopes people find places in their backyards they have never seen before or find an appreciation for hiking and being outside.

Dinger is going to continue with the treasure hunt until the uncertain end of pandemic restrictions. She is more concerned with finding ways to be a blessing, which stems from spiritual roots, than she is about the impact on her finances. Dinger is trying to be an example for her four kids, showing them that even when times are tough, it is important to continue being a force for good.

“Whatever I give, God just blesses me tenfold,” Dinger said. “I’ve been sharing that with my kids … We can all do small things that add up in somebody’s life.”

Dinger said God has redeemed the time, money and resources she has donated in so many ways it has become hard to count. She attributes her perspective to her spirituality, saying it has guided her through this experience.

“I do love encouraging people to get out-

R40-eowtfB-T R40-eowtfB-TV T

Establishes Sauk Rapids, St. Cloud treasure hunt

Track & Field Goals unmet

Page 10 | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

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ference in 2019.

The team had several runners returning to the track, all of whom had success last year. Those athletes included Brooke Nelson, Ezigbo Ugochukwu, Ava Juntunen-Novak, Addison Bemboom, Darci Peterson and Maggie Fernholz. Mara Pesta-Carlson would have been a strong contributor in running events, as well as high jump in which she earned all-conference in 2019.

The boys team had high hopes for 2020. Last year, the team earned third place at the Sauk Rapids-Rice mega meet, accomplishing a season-long goal. The team had the same goal for this season.

This year’s team was led by 10

Q&A

What is your favorite track memory?

Bruns: Getting to improve as an athlete with my fellow classmate and athlete peers.

Brutger: Competing at sections in pole vault.

Conway: Running the 4x200 meter relay last year.

Daniels: Hearing about people’s improvements and working hard every day.

Hua: Jogging the hallways and singing “Take me Home, Country Road” as a team. At that moment, I knew our team bond would be as powerful as our voices echoing through the halls, and I was proud to be a senior leading this great team.

B. Johnson: Eating cake with the team after the mega meet last year.

P. Johnson: Getting cake at our mega meet last year.

Kosloske: Gathering the boys out on the field and warming up for the meet ahead. Also, cheering on each other’s successes when we beat our personal records.

Mushatt: Throwing 126 feet, 8 inches in discus at the mega meet, securing third place.

Neisen: When I got my personal record at the true team sections meet last year and how happy my whole team looked when they announced my distance.

O’Brien: True team last year when I broke my record and threw 114 feet.

Summers: The Hutchinson meet last year, where nearly everyone on the throwing team had personal records or qualified for sections. I had a big personal record in discus and shot put.

Good Luck to All Sports Teams!

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What will you miss most about the sport?

Bruns: Not getting to experience more of the actual competition.

Brutger: Pole vaulting.

Conway: The mega meet because there is always somebody to cheer on or some-

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Daniels: The team. Everyone was uplifting, and we were all there for each other.

Hua: The track meet environment. Track as a whole is like a family, and every meet is like a reunion.

B. Johnson: The atmosphere of the team.

P. Johnson: Being with everyone.

Kosloske: Participating in an organized and respectful group of individuals. It is not always an everyday experience, and I am glad to be one of many to experience it while I still can.

Mushatt: My track family.

Neisen: The time spent with my team, and the time spent practicing my throws because it is a very calming and therapeutic time for me.

O’Brien: Hanging out with all the throwers and eating and joking around at meets.

Summers: The brotherhood of friendships I have made.

Track is as much of an individual sport as it is a team sport. The support I got from my teammates and the support I gave them in return is something I will miss. iss.

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seniors – Nick Kosloske, Tyson Mushatt, Carter Brutger, Kyle Conway, Brady Johnson, James Bruns, Kayden Daniels, Jimmie Hua, Preston Johnson and Tyler Summers.

The team boasted a long list of returning underclassmen, many who specialized in running events.

Carter Loesch, Dominic Sander, Jared Bentrud, Tayton Philavanh, Pearson Schroeder, Ryan Moilanen, Austin Horn and Braeden Holt were among them.

Bentrud and Loesch, along with 10 other Storm boys athletes, earned all conference or honorable mention last year.

2020

LAUNDROMAT & TANNING

The Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm track and field teams were destined for admirable accomplishments stemming from 2019 success. However, the COVID-19 pandemic kept the teams apart and off the practice fields for the season.

Leading the girls were seniors Abby Neisen and Ally O’Brien.

Both girls led in discus, taking top spots from the first meet of 2019 and throughout the season. Neisen earned the third-best distance on the all-time school record list with a distance of 123 feet, 5 inches at the Section 8AAA true team meet.

Neisen also claimed the fourthbest distance, and O’Brien the seventh-best. O’Brien earned all-con-

Track & Field

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Page 12 | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

NEWS

Going to miss the kids

Lange, Walberg, Skudlarek retire from SRR alongside three others

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – When buildings reopen for the school year in fall, six known faces will be missing from the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District.

Katie Lange, Charyl Walberg and Marlys Skudlarek are each retiring this spring with over 30 years’ experience.

The three join Katherine Traut, Thomas Fenlason and Michael Kalkman as retirees from the district who serve in a non-instructional capacity.

“It has been great working here with the administration and staff,” said Lange, a receptionist at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. “I have loved getting to know the students and families too. I am going to miss the daily interaction with people.”

When Lange began working at the high school 30 years ago, it was located in the current middle school building and had far less students than today’s building.

There were three phone lines for the entire school and a computer did not sit on her desk. Lange took messages by hand and delivered them to the appropriate teachers or staff

members. A similar concept was adopted when announcements became part of the daily fabric of the school day. Lange walked announcements to each room prior to homeroom time.

Following her retirement, Lange and her husband, Kevin, have plans to relocate to Nashville, Tennessee, where their two sons and their families reside.

“We moved to Sauk Rapids right after we got married and raised our family here,” Lange said.

“Sauk Rapids is a great town to raise a family, and this is a great school system. I have always enjoyed my job.”

Walberg began her tenure at Rice Elementary School in 1986 as a lunchroom cashier. While the building was smaller, the school housed about 500 students in kindergarten through sixth grades.

When the health secretary position opened, she knew she wanted it for the increased amount of one-on-one contact with the kids.

During Walberg’s 34 years with the district, Rice Elementary has seen three additions. Aside from physical changes, Walberg said she has seen significant changes in discipline and respect from the kids.

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Sauk Rapids-Rice School District non-instructional staff retirees

Katie Lange

Thomas Fenlason, MHES paraprofessional Michael Kalkman, MHES custodian Katie Lange, SRRHS receptionist Charyl Walberg, RES health services assistant Katherine Traut, RES head cook Marlys Skudlarek, MHES cook’s helper * An article about the teaching staff retirees was included in the May 2 issue.

Charyl Walberg

Marlys Skudlarek

One of the greatest aspects of the job for Walberg is the long-lasting friendships she has made with her coworkers, often

getting together outside of school walls. However, her utmost treasure is the students.

“Everything is for the kids,” said Walberg, who retires from Rice Elementary School as the health services assistant.

“I enjoy working with kids, and it has been a great experience working at Rice Elementary. I will definitely miss it here.”

Unlike Lange, Walberg does not have concrete plans for retirement.

She hopes to spend more time with her grandchildren and pick up hobbies.

She also hopes to work as a substitute when needed.

“I wanted to retire while I am still healthy and able to enjoy retirement,” Walberg said. “I thought about retiring a lot, and it was not an easy decision to make. I do want to come back to the school and help out, but then I can have my days

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where if I want to stay home, I can.”

Skudlarek’s feelings of retirement are similar to Lange’s and Walberg’s. She will miss the kids and her coworkers.

“I have enjoyed working with the children and the staff,” Skudlarek said. “I have made a lot of good friendships and I will miss that. Not seeing the kids and my coworkers on a daily basis will be hard.”

Skudlarek began her employment with the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District 31 years ago, where she worked two and a half hours each day serving lunch at the Hillside school building. At that time, food was made off-site and staff had to pick it up before serving it to the fourth and fifth graders.

As she transitioned in her career, Skudlarek moved to Missis-

sippi Heights Elementary School. For the last several years, she has worked over seven hours each day, helping in food preparation and serving both breakfast and lunch to students.

In her retirement, Skudlarek hopes to volunteer and travel. She also hopes to be a snowbird for a month or so during the winter, settling in Texas, Arizona or Florida. Along the way, she will reflect on her time with the district.

“I was very happy at my job and loved the district, staff and children,” Skudlarek said. “The hometown atmosphere is great, and this is a very caring community. This district has been there through thick and thin for me, and I am grateful.”

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Page 14 | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Pulse on People

Big Brothers Big Sisters announces scholDaytime schedule Monday through Friday arship recipients ST. CLOUD – Big • CUSTOMER SERVICE • MEDICAL BILLING • MEDICAL SCHEDULING Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minnesota is • Varying Shifts proud to announce the • Generous Incentive Program recipients of its Federated Challenge Schol• Medical, Dental, 401K • Self-Promotion Career Pathing Plan arship, which is exclusively available to • PTO and Holidays youth involved with the program.

Apply Online At: Emily Dien, Emily Schimnich and Eric STARRF21-2B-RB Symanietz are three 320-253-7800 • 250 14th Ave. East • Sartell, MN 56377 area students receiving this honor.

Dien is a graduate of Sauk Rapids-Rice High School and will attend Central Lakes College. Schimnich is a graduate of the MTS Minnesota Connections Academy and will attend St. Cloud Technical and Community College. Symanietz is

a non-four-year postsecondary program at an accredited Minnesota school that is focused on apprenticeship, certificate, trade school, technical or community college. “It is an honor for Big Brothers Big Sisters to partner with Federated Insurance, whose generosity and philanthropy help us impact the lives of young people and build the

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Each of these students received an award amount between $1,000 to $5,000 per year, and it is a renewable scholarship.

ASTECH Corp. is now accepting applications

R22-1B-JF

meduitrcm.com/careers

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The Federated Challenge Scholarship, made possible by Federated Insurance and the Federated Challenge, awards deserving Big Brothers Big Sisters program participants who plan to continue their education in

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Page 16 | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Sauk Rapids Herald LEGAL NOTICE The following individual who was convicted of a crime in Benton County has applied for relief from the Minnesota Board of Pardons. The application will be considered at the meeting of the Board scheduled for June 12, 2020, commencing at 9:00 a.m.

- Kantor, James Aggravated Robbery Convicted: 2/15/2001 Victims of this individual’s crime have a right to submit an oral or written statement at this meeting summarizing the harm suffered as a result of the crime, and make a recommendation to the Board as to whether a pardon should be granted or denied. To submit an oral or written statement, or to obtain additional information, email the Board of Pardons at mnboardofpardons@state.mn.us or call 651-361-7171.

R-22-1B

PUBLIC NOTICES

City of Sauk Rapids from pg. 15

SPECIAL AUDIT MEETING SAUK RAPIDS CITY COUNCIL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 250 SUMMIT AVE. N. Monday, May 11, 2020 5:30PM MINUTES **Due to COVID-19 and the resulting emergency declared by the Minnesota Governor, this meeting was conducted virtually under Minn. Stat. 13D.021. This meeting was shown live on Charter channel 181.** 5:30 PM Call to order and Pledge of Allegiance Mayor Hunstiger called the meeting to order at 5:30pm.

Members present: Jason Ellering, Nick Sauer, and Dottie Seamans. Members absent: Ellen Thronson.

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

Audited Financial Statements for 2019 Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Seamans to accept and approve the 2019 Audited Financial Statements as presented. Motion carried unanimously.

Adjournment Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Seamansto adjourn the meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

Mayor Hunstiger adjourned the meeting at 5:47 p.m.

R-22-1B SUMMARY OF PUBLICATION ORDINANCE No. 2020-786

The following is the official summary of Ordinance No. 2020-786 approved by the Sauk Rapids City Council on May 26, 2020: AN INTERIM ORDINANCE TEMPORARILY ALLOWING EXPANDED OUTDOOR SEATING FOR RESTAURANTS WITHIN THE CITY OF SAUK RAPIDS. It is the intent and effect of this Ordinance to temporarily allow expanded outdoor seating in order to accommodate restaurants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A complete, printed copy of the ordinance is available for inspection by any person during regular office hours at City Hall or the entire Fee Schedule may be viewed on the City’s website at www.ci.sauk-rapids.mn.us.

R-22-1B

City of Sauk Rapids page 17

PUBLIC NOTICES REGULAR VIRTUAL MEETING SAUK RAPIDS CITY COUNCIL SAUK RAPIDS GOVERNMENT CENTER, 250 Summit Ave N. Monday, May 11, 2020 6:00PM MINUTES **Due to COVID-19 and the resulting emergency declared by the Minnesota Governor, this meeting was conducted virtually under Minn. Stat. 13D.021. This meeting was shown live on Charter channel 181.** 6:00 P.M. 1. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance Mayor Kurt Hunstiger called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Mayor Hunstiger performed roll call. All members present.

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

2. Additions or Changes to the Agenda Ross Olson requested to add Public Facilities Community Access as agenda item 11-C. Olson said that the other item that he would like to add is a reminder that the next meeting will be on a Tuesday due to Memorial Day holiday. Mayor Hunstiger noted that the reminder would be added as agenda item 11-D. Olson noted that a new resolution intended to go along with park project should be added to agenda item 10-A. Jack Kahlhamer requested to pull agenda item 9-I. 3. Approve the Agenda Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to approve the Agenda as amended.

Motion carried unanimously.

4. Approve Minutes A. 4-20-2020 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to approve the 4-20-2020 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes. Motion carried unanimously.

5. Receive and File A. 01-07-2020 Regular HRA Meeting Minutes Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded

by Councilperson Ellering to receive and file the 1-7-2020 Regular HRA Meeting Minutes. Motion carried unanimously.

6. Mayor’s Communications • Sauk Rapids-Rice School District Update—Aaron Sinclair, Sauk Rapids-Rice School District Superintendent, provided an update on Sauk Rapids-Rice School District. He noted that the District just started its 6th week of distance learning due to COVID-19. Sinclair said that overall things are going very well. Sinclair said that the District looks forward to having the students back in the schools.

Sinclair provided a project update in terms of the new Pleasantview Elementary School. He said that the first phase of the design process is now complete. The second phase will close in on exact details of the design. Sinclair said that the work is moving along quite well considering all that is going on in relation to COVID-19. He said that the project is still keeping up with the planned timeline.

Sinclair said that the parking lot at Mississippi Heights is slated to be redone soon. He noted that the parking lot in front of the building was in disrepair and needed to be replaced this summer.

Mayor Hunstiger noted that this was likely the last District update that Sinclair would be providing as he will soon be embarking on a new career venture in Little Falls. Mayor Hunstiger thanked Sinclair for doing a really great job in the community and in leading the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District.

Sinclair said that he has really appreciated the collaboration and relationships that he has developed with the City. He said that he plans to set the table to have the open communications continue with the new Superintendent.

7. Audience Items/Visitors Total Time Limit 2 Minutes for Items NOT on the Agenda Due to COVID-19, this meeting was conducted virtually, so in-person testimonies were not possible. Residents were

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | Page 17

asked to contact Ross Olson, City Administrator, if they had any concerns that they would like shared with the Council.

8. Public Hearings NONE 9. Consent Agenda A. Accept by Resolution Donations for Narcan B. Approve the Extension of the Joint Powers Agreement to Provide Violent Offenders Task Force Officer Staffing and Support C. Approve Appointment to the Open Utility Maintenance Position D. Approve Awarding the 2020 Benton Drive Improvement Project E. Approve 2020 Plumbing and Mechanical Contractor Licenses F. Approve 2020 1st Quarter Plumbing, Mechanical, and Building Permits G. Approve Coating of Manholes by R&H Painting H. Approve Awarding 2020 Municipal Liquor Store Parking Lot Improvements I. Approve Bob Cross Park Field Grandstand Roof—Pulled from agenda J. Approve Replacement Plan and Wetland Banking Approval K. Approve Pond View Investors Plat 3 Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to approve consent agenda items 9A-9H, and 9J-9K. Motion carried unanimously.

10. Regular Agenda A. Sauk Rapids Riverfront Park Bids Alternate No. S1 Basketball court, related curb, and planting areas (Add of $73,814) Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to reject Alternate No. S1 basketball court. Motion carried unanimously.

Alternate No. S2 and S3 kayak/canoe launch— Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Sauer to reject Alternate No. S2 and S3 Kayak/ Canoe Launch. Motion carried unanimously.

Alternate No. S4 trail lighting (add of $25,537) Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to reject Alternate No. S4 trail lighting. Motion carried unanimously.

Alternate No. A1 Glazing (Add of $4,480) Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Sauer to accept Alternate No. A1 glazing. Motion carried unanimously.

Alternate A2 Linear Metal ceiling (Add of $37,192) Motion: Moved by Councilperson Seamans and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to reject Alternate No. A2 linear metal ceiling. Motion carried unanimously.

Alternate No. A3 storefront/curtain wall (Add of $3,900) Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to accept Alternate No. A3 storefront/curtain wall. Motion carried unanimously.

Alternate No. E1 Drum Lights at Event Room (Add of $16,721) Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded

by Councilperson Seamans to accept Alternate No. E1 Drum Lights. Motion carried unanimously.

Alternate No. E2 Thin Wave Lights at Event Room (Add of $31,037) Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded

by Councilperson Ellering to reject Alternate E2 Thin Wave Lights. Motion carried unanimously Alternate No. F1 Decorative CMU (Add of $51,460) Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to accept Alternate No. F1 Decorative CMU. Motion carried unanimously Alternate No. F2 Flooring (Add of $9,035) Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Mayor Hunstiger to accept F2 flooring.

Motion carried unanimously.

Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to approve base bids 4B-9E, and

City of Sauk Rapids from pg. 16

12A through 32B as listed on the Requested Action page provided by RA Morton. Motion carried unanimously.

Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to approve base bid 11-A. Motion carried unanimously with Councilperson Ellering abstaining.

Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to reject bid packages 3A, 4A, and 32 C listed on the requested action bid page as listed on the Requested Action page provided by RA Morton. Motion carried unanimously.

Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to approve the addition of Island View Park to the LAWCON conversion process and to approve the Resolution Establishing Procedures Relating to Compliance with Reimbursement Bond Regulations Under the Internal Revenue Code. Motion carried unanimously.

B. 2020 River Avenue Improvements Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Seamans to approve awarding the 2020 River Avenue Improvements to C&L Excavating Inc. in the amount of $1,744,358.25. Motion carried unanimously.

C. 2020 Lift Station Improvements Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to authorize SEH to prepare plans and specifications for the 2020 Southside Lift Station Improvements. Motion carried unanimously.

D. Interim Ordinance to Temporarily Prohibit Commercial Storage Units Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to approve the interim Ordinance to Temporarily Prohibit New Storage Facilities. Motion carried unanimously.

11. Other Staff Items A. 2020 Sauk Rapids Citizen of the Year Update Ross Olson stated that he was happy to announce that Juan Castellanos was selected as the 2020 Sauk Rapids Citizen of the Year (COY). Olson said that due to COVID-19, this year’s COY reception was cancelled. However, Mr. Castellanos and the two COY scholarship recipients will be invited to a City Council meeting in the near future.

B. 2020 Filing Update as it Relates to COVID-19 Ross Olson noted that the filing period for the 2020 State Primary Election for local offices begins on Tuesday, May 19th and runs through Tuesday, June 2nd. The City of Sauk Rapids will have one mayoral seat and two City Council seats on this year’s ballot. Due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, City offices may still be closed to the public at the time of filing.

Olson said that if City offices are still closed for COVID-19 reasons at the time of filing, then residents interested in filing are asked to call Ross Olson, City Clerk, at (320) 258-5302 to schedule a time in which to file in person. Olson said that social distancing and other safety measure will be in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

C. City Facilities, Community Room/Park Rentals, and Splash Pad Ross Olson discussed the COVID-19 pandemic and what its impacts have been on the City’s facilities. Olson discussed the current State of Emergency that the City declared which draws on guidance from the Governor and the Minnesota Department of Health. He said that currently the Governor Center remains closed to the public. Olson noted that he has been working closely with the Mayor and the other area city administrators to figure out when it would make the most sense from a health and safety standpoint to allow residents and customers into the Government Center.

Olson said that his hope would be that the City Council, Planning Commission, and HRA can beginning meeting in person again soon.

Community Room and Enclosed Park Structures—Olson said that staff is receiving calls regarding the use of the community room and enclosed park structures. He noted that his preference would be to not rent out these facilities until further notice due to COVID-19 and social distancing and gathering limitations currently in place. Olson said that staff will continue to follow the State and Federal recommendations and rent based on that as things change.

Splash Pad—Ross Olson said that staff will be working with the State of Minnesota and other communities to figure out what the best plan is for whether or not to open the City’s splash pad.

D. Next City Council Meeting will be on Tuesday, May 26th Ross Olson noted that due to the Memorial Day holiday, the next City Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 26th E. Compost Site- Ross Olson said that due to COVID-19 and the shelter in place order by the Governor, the compost site has been open for use without a sticker. Olson stated that until further notice the compost site will remain open without a sticker. He noted that staff is working through a process to figure out how to best sell the compost stickers while keeping safety in mind. Olson said that adequate notice will be provide to the public as to when a compost sticker will be required.

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

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

14. Adjournment Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Sauer to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

Mayor Hunstiger adjourned the meeting at 8:34 p.m.

R-22-1B

SPORTS

Page 18 | SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Pohlads deserve Spring season cut short some credit Major League Baseball finds itself in an increasingly tenuous situation as precious days continue to pass without an approved plan to return to play. The owners and players continue to argue over their split of billions of dollars of revenue, and time is running short if the league wants to have anything resembling a normal season. However, while the owners as SPORTS COLUMNIST

BY ANDY THAYER a collective group have displayed a characteristic and irrefutable amount of avarice in their negotiations with the players union, a few individual ownership groups have made gestures of goodwill that are noteworthy. One of those gestures came from the Pohlad family, the owners of the Minnesota Twins, who guaranteed full pay for all full-time employees of the team through June.

This is important because a huge segment of the team’s staff relies on those paychecks in a far more significant way than the billionaire owners and millionaire players that are fighting over their slices of the revenue pie. The team’s trainers, scouts, analytics department, minor league players, lower-level coaches, player development personnel, marketing staff, etc., all make far less money than the stars at the bigleague level but are important to the success of the organization.

This would seem like a common-sense move for a multibillionaire ownership group from a public relations perspective, but that simply has not been the case across the league.

Apparently organizational continuity is not a unilateral priority when the bottom line starts to be affected. The Los Angeles Angels and their $3.3 billion new-worth owner Arte Moreno gutted their entire baseball operations department, and the Oakland A’s implemented significant furloughs and salary reductions as well.

The most recent return-to-play proposal that was presented to the players by the owners was nearly as laughable as the first. The key thing to remember is the players and owners agreed to a prorated salary construct back in March when play was suspended, with a clause allowing for a good faith discussion should circumstances drastically change.

Back in March, it was pretty clear that if baseball resumed this summer, there was a real chance fan attendance would be severely impacted. However, the owners are leaning heavily on that good faith clause now and are asking further (and massive) pay cuts for players.

In this new proposal, player salaries would be divided into tiers, with each tier receiving an additional haircut to their already prorated salaries. Players making $285,228 or less would get the smallest cut, receiving 90% of their prorated salary. The players in the highest salary tier would only receive 30% of their prorated salary. Seriously, what?

The players already agreed to pay cuts in March. This is so ridiculous it is laughable. If I am Mike Trout or Gerrit Cole, I am telling the owners to pound sand.

The calendar is continuing its inexorable march forward, and extreme greed from a group of 30 billionaires is looking increasingly likely to cost fans the 2020 baseball season. If that happens, I have a feeling the game will never truly recover. This will be way worse than 1994, when labor strife wiped out almost half of a season. We are in the middle of a global pandemic, and the entire sports world is looking toward baseball to provide some entertainment and relief. It appears that acceptable safety protocols are in place, and the players generally do not have major issues with health risk, so the primary concern here is money. If baseball does not return this summer because of an argument between billionaires and millionaires over revenue splits, many fans are going to be lost forever. I hope the owners and players realize that.

I understand everyone wants to protect their money, but in this pandemic, we are truly finding out which billionaires possess a shred of humanity. I am thankful the Pohlad family is part of that group. Hopefully they can make their voices heard at the negotiating table with the players union, and cooler heads will prevail and allow America’s pastime to return to the field at a time when baseball can provide a positive diversion for millions of fans.

Bjorn Hanson

Tyler Hemker

Cordell Lazer

Emma Mader

Kenny Nolan

Sam Patton

Kristen Petron

Sydney Plemel

Brady Posch

Julia Severson

SRR graduates compete in collegiate athletics

E

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER | STAFF WRITER

leven Sauk RapidsRice High School graduates began their spring collegiate athletic seasons but most had the latter half of the competition schedules canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bjorn Hanson, son of Erik and Denise Hanson of Sauk Rapids, is an infielder for the Augustana University baseball team in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He had 21 hits, 17 runs and eight RBIs. In the field, he tallied 188 putouts and 25 assists. Hanson is a 2017 Sauk RapidsRice High School graduate.

Tyler Hemker, son of Jamie and Cheri Hemker of Sauk Rapids, is an infielder for the St. John’s University baseball team in Collegeville. He was expected to compete with the university’s junior varsity team, but the season was canceled.

Hemker is a 2019 SRRHS graduate.

Cordell Lazer, son of Sue Henkemeyer and Mike Lazer of Sauk Rapids, is a pitcher for the St. Cloud Technical and Community College baseball team in St. Cloud. Lazer pitched in four games for the Cyclones for a total of 7.1 innings with a total of four strikeouts and a 2.45 ERA. Lazer is a 2018 SRRHS graduate.

Emma Mader, daughter of Kelly and Lori Mader of Rice, is a distance runner for the Hamline University womens track and field team in St. Paul. At the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championships Feb. 27-29 at St. John’s University in Collegeville, Mader

ran the mile race and the 3,000-meter run. She placed 11th in the mile with a time of 5 minutes, 30.32 seconds and 27th in the 3,000 run with a time of 11:12.77.

Mader is a 2018 SRRHS graduate.

Kenny Nolan, son of Ken and Taunya Nolan of St. Cloud, is a sprinter for the Briar Cliff University mens track and field team in Sioux City, Iowa. He placed ninth in the 600 run with a time of 1:45.69 at the Jack Jennett Open Jan. 24 at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Nolan is a 2019 SRRHS graduate.

Sam Patton, daughter of Shawn and Cheryl Patton of Sauk Rapids, is a pitcher for the St. Cloud Technical and Community College softball team in St. Cloud. Patton pitched in seven games for a total of 26 innings. In that time, she earned 25 strikeouts and an 8.08 ERA. At the plate, she earned four hits.

Patton is a 2018 SRRHS graduate.

Kristen Petron, daughter of John Petron and the late Pam of Rice, is a middistance and distance runner for the Bemidji State University womens track and field team in Bemidji.

Petron competed in the 800 run and the mile run at the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference championships Feb. 29 at Minnesota State University-Mankato.

She took ninth in the 800 run with a time of 2:21.14 and 12th in the mile with a time of 5:16.93, breaking the university’s record. Petron is a 2016 SRRHS graduate.

Paige Sunstrom

Sydney Plemel, daughter of Patrick and Merrin Plemel of Sauk Rapids, is an outfielder for the College of St. Scholastica softball team in Duluth. She had one run with three assists in the field this season. Plemel is a 2018 SRRHS graduate.

Brady Posch, son of Gary and Meredith Posch of Sauk Rapids, is a left-handed pitcher for the baseball team at University of Nebraska in Omaha, Nebraska.

He was expected to play but sustained an injury to his left arm during spring training. Posch is a 2019 SRRHS graduate.

Julia Severson, daughter of Scott and Eva Severson of St. Cloud, is a distance runner for the Gustavus Adolphus College womens track and field team in St. Peter.

At the MIAC championships Feb. 27-29 at St. John’s University in Collegeville, she placed 12th in the mile run with a time of 5:30.94 and 29th in the 3,000 run with a time of 11:25.79. Severson is a 2019 SRRHS graduate.

Paige Sunstrom, daughter of John and Nancy Sunstrom, is a distance runner for the Augustana University womens track and field team in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Sunstrom earned a season-best time of 5:36 in the mile at the Maverick Invitational Feb. 21 at Minnesota State University in Mankato.

Sunstrom is a 2017 SRRHS graduate.