Sauk Rapids Herald - July 10, 2021 by Star Publications

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Saturday, July 10, 2021

Same Local Coverage Since 1854.

Employee

Legislature passes $52 billion, 2-year budget

scarcity hits local businesses

Averts partial government shutdown

National trend holds true in Benton County BY JAKOB KOUNKEL | STAFF WRITER

BY JAKOB KOUNKEL STAFF WRITER

FOLEY – Minnesota’s divided Legislature – the only one in the country – finalized a $52 billion, two-year budget July 2 in special session, marking the end of a contentious battle over a number of controversial issues. The special session took until the early morning hours of July 2, the day of the deadline, to pass the last piece of the budget, potentially averting a state government shutdown. “There was a lot of good in there, and there was some bad in much of it as well,” said Rep. Shane Mekeland, the Republican representative for District 15B. Two of the major priorities for Senate Republicans were ending Gov. Tim Walz’s emergency powers and providing tax relief, according to Sen. Paul Gazelka, the Senate majority leader. From the minority in the House, Mekeland said the focus was much the same. Walz ended his emergency powers related to the coronavirus pandemic July 1.

Budget page 3

Vol. 167, No. 14

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

A trailer sign attempts to draw passersby attention July 8 in an industrial park in Sauk Rapids. Many area businesses are struggling to hire and retain employees.

FOLEY – Across the country, business owners are desperate to find employees to fill out their labor force, in some cases offering incentives and increased wages to hire and retain workers. The story is much the same in Benton County, as the national trend continues to hold true. Many area business owners believe federal unemployment benefits, set to expire Sept. 6, are causing workers to stay at home. Those on unemployment insurance collect an additional $300 per week from the federal government so long as they were laid off due to the coronavirus pandemic and meet the state’s unemployment insurance criteria.

Employment page 4

Small-town atmosphere lures

power sports business

Owner hopes to carry on tradition of Power Equipment Plus BY TOM FENTON | STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – Chris Daniels did not know Wayne Bellmont. He did, however, know of him. Bellmont was the longtime owner of Power Equipment Plus – a staple in the Sauk Rapids business community – until his death in April which ultimately led to the business closing. Daniels, who has owned and operated a power sports business in East Bethel for 18 years, learned the sad news through a sales representative and began thinking about the possibility of carrying on the successful tradition Bellmont established over three decades.

Plow World page 3 PHOTO BY TOM FENTON

Chris Daniels, of East Bethel, stands outside his new business, Plow World Power Equipment, located at 633 N. Benton Drive in Sauk Rapids in the former Power Equipment Plus building. Plow World Power Equipment opened July 6, and is the second location for the business, which also has a store in East Bethel.

The newspaper of today is the history of tomorrow.

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

OBITUARIES • Merlin M. Kamps • Inez M. Stangler • Ralph J. Stangler • Marlene Thielen • Gloria Warnert

PUBLIC NOTICES

• Benton County Ditch Public Hearing - pg. 19 • City of Sauk Rapids Advertisement for Bids - pg. 18 • Assumed Name - Enjoying Motherhood - pg. 18 • Assumed Name - Good Shepherd Supportive Services - pg. 19 • Benton County Board of Commissioners Minutes, June 15 - pg. 19

• Benton County Planning Commission Notice of Public Hearing - pg. 18 • City of Rice Annual Disclosure - pg. 18 • Watab Township Notice of Hearing on Street Reconstruction - pg. 19 • Watab Township Notice of Improvement Hearing - pg. 18

Plow World

NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | Page 3

What’s Happening Saturday, July 10, 9 a.m. – Overeaters Anonymous. Whitney Senior Center, 1527 Northway Drive, St. Cloud. For more information, call Joyce at 320-7612275, Donna at 320-291-7251 or visit oa.org.

from front Three months later, the little blue building on Benton Drive has received a fresh coat of red paint and officially opened as Plow World Power Equipment July 6. “I was looking to expand and here we are,” Daniels said. “The smalltown atmosphere was a big thing for me as was the ability have all the same products as the (East Bethel) location. I’m not anticipating that this location will get as big as that one. I’m hoping to be able to maintain the customer service that Wayne had. I know people loved that about him.” Plow World Power Equipment is a multi-purpose power sports dealer, offering lawn mowers, snowblowers, ATVs and snow plow attachments. It also houses a service department and small engine repair. Daniels owned a tree and landscaping business for 19 years when he got

Budget from front

“Billions of dollars in tax cuts,” Mekeland said talking about the passed budget. “ A lot of the bad anti-police stuff is gone. Really bad energy policy never made it across the line. And some good environmental and ag (agriculture) stuff was included.” Aside from budget accomplishments, in which both parties felt they were successful in including priorities, Mekeland said Republicans blocked many of the hot-topic Democratic goals. Mekeland said what was stopped may be more important than what was passed. “It seems to me that they just dream up some of the most cockamamie ideas just to keep us busy,” Mekeland said. “Some of it is so far from reality.” Among other Democratic-Farmer-Laborer priorities was a tax increase. “The fact they even mentioned raising taxes by billions of dollars this year is so tone-deaf it’s unbelievable,” Mekeland said. “The governor literally forced people out of work … and wants them to pay more in taxes at a time the state has a historic surplus.” Sen. Aric Putnam of District 14 and Rep. Dan Wolgamott of District 14B, both Democrat representaf tives, highlighted a historic investment in public education. It was the single-

Monday, July 12, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Catholic Charities Senior Dining Frozen Meal Distribution. For people age 60 or older. All clients must complete an annual registration form. There is no cost to participate, and meals are distributed through a contactless, drive-thru format. First Presbyterian Church, 340 Fifth Ave. S., St. Cloud. Monday, July 12, 6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids City Council Meeting. Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Ave. N., Sauk Rapids. PHOTO BY TOM FENTON

Tuesday, July 13, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Lutheran Church Food Shelf Distribution. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

ticipated in the St. Cloud Sportsmen’s Show in past years. There will be one to two employees on-hand during regular business hours, and Daniels is hoping to expand in the future – something the Bellmont family hopes comes true. “Hopefully we can do enough business so we can add on like Wayne envisioned,” Daniels said. “His family has been in and they’ve told me, ‘Dad wouldn’t have fought you on any of this, and he would love what you’re doing.’”

Tuesday, July 13, 1-3 p.m. – Catholic Charities Senior Dining Frozen Meal Distribution. For people age 60 or older. All clients must complete an annual registration form. There is no cost to participate, and meals are distributed through a contactless, drive-thru format. Catholic Charities Emergency Services, 157 Roosevelt Road, St. Cloud.

Plow World Power Equipment, which also has a location in East Bethel, is in the previous Power Equipment Plus building on Benton Drive in Sauk Rapids. The business features lawn mowers, ATVs, snow plow attachments and a service department.

involved in small engine repair in his garage for something to do in the winter. His time is now fully devoted to the East Bethel and Sauk Rapids locations. The business was not officially open last week, but it did not stop a couple from dropping by to check out the selection of riding lawn mowers. Daniels said he was not at all discouraged to start the business this summer despite the challenges they face with a shortage in the workforce and inlargest increase in school funding in more than a decade, they said, boosting the per-pupil funding formula by 2.5% and 2% for 2022 and 2023, respectively. “I’m really proud of how House Democrats and Senate Republicans worked together to pass a bipartisan budget agreement,” Wolgamott said. “I’m happy with what I was able to accomplish for central Minnesota.” Wolgamott and Putnam also noted public safety investments. With Senate Republicans vehemently opposed to anything they viewed as anti-police, the DFL legislators added funding for increased mental health crisis response and restrictions on the use of no-knock warrants. Mekeland said most of the policing funding that was passed was widely approved by police agencies and organizations across the state – a win-win for both parties. Wolgamott said he was proud to support police officers in St. Cloud and across the state, sponsoring a bill that criminalizes divulging an officer’s home address publicly – a trend known as doxing. Wolgamott also said he was proud to get support for small businesses in Minnesota, especially greater Minnesota, with $70 million in grant opportunities. Among other infrastructure goals Wolgamott helped establish in the budget, the one he is most fond

ventory. Though getting inventory can be an issue, Daniels said he approaches suppliers in a bit different manner than most. “I do it a bit differently,” Daniels said. “I call suppliers and ask what they have instead of tell them what I’m looking for. It’s good to have the showroom full if you can. It’s already been exactly what I thought it would be with all of the people coming in who have been coming here for a long time.” Daniels is familiar with the area having parof is support for potential safety improvements in his district’s stretch of Highway 10. He secured funding for the Minnesota Department of Transportation to study the road for safety improvements. “It’s not going to make a Star Tribune headline, but it’s really important for readers in the community,” Wolgamott said. Benton County Administrator Monty Headley said the county is expecting $2.7 million in county program aid next year, an increase of about $23,000. Headley said, a year ago, counties across the state were expecting the worst, meaning they were concerned about a reduction in aid. Largely, Headley said, not much has changed –

partly thanks to the American Rescue Plan Act funding and partly thanks to an economy recovering faster than expected. “Counties were expecting the worst,” Headley said. “Many were expecting reductions in aid, possible funding shifts and so on, but by-and-large that did not happen, so I think everyone is pretty much relieved that’s the case.” Reflecting on the budget and the special session, Wolgamott said Minnesotans can be proud of who they elected into office. “I think Minnesotans can be proud of how we came together and set aside partisan differences to get the budget across the finish line,” Wolgamott said.

Sauk Rapids

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Wednesday, July 14, 9:30-11 a.m.– Catholic Charities Senior Dining Frozen Meal Distribution. For people age 60 or older. All clients must complete an annual registration form. There is no cost to participate, and meals are distributed through a contactless, drive-thru format. Sartell Community Center, 850 19th St. S., Sartell. Wednesday, July 14, 5-8:30 p.m. – Ice Cream Social. Burgers, hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad, pie, ice cream and beverages. Kids 5 and under eat free. Graham United Methodist Church, 2255 135th St. N.E., Rice. Thursday, July 15, 3-6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids Market. Coborn’s parking lot, 110 First St. S., Sauk Rapids. Thursday, July 15, 5:30-9:30 p.m. – Rock the Riverside Music Nights. Featuring Jenn Lamb-Randolf and Jim Anderson and Pandemic. Southside Park, 103 River Ave. S., Sauk Rapids. Friday, July 16, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Lutheran Church Food Shelf Distribution. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids. Saturday, July 17, 9 a.m. – Overeaters Anonymous. Whitney Senior Center, 1527 Northway Drive, St. Cloud. For more information, call Joyce at 320-7612275, Donna at 320-291-7251 or visit oa.org.

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Tuesday, July 13, 6 p.m. – Overeaters Anonymous. Alano Club, 23805 County Road 2, Cold Spring. For more information, call Joyce at 320-761-2275, Donna at 320-291-7251 or visit oa.org.

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OBITUARIES Marlene Thielen

Mass of Christian Burial was 11 a.m. July 7, at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in St. Cloud for Marlene J. Thielen, age 83, who went home to be with the Lord July 3, 2021. Visitation was an hour and a half prior to the service at the church. Christian Mothers prayed the rosary at 10:30 a.m. prior to the service Wednesday. The Rev. Scott Pagatchnik officiated and burial was at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Minden Township. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids. Marlene was born Oct. 3, 1937, in St. Cloud to Bernard and Helen (Stein) Junglen. She married Brennan Thielen Oct. 12, 1957. Marlene spent most of her life living in St. Cloud and being a homemaker. She enjoyed her time most in adoration and was a devoted Catholic who was a member

Marlene Thielen

of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church. Marlene volunteered for funeral lunches, was a member of the Christian Mothers, Serrans Club, and being a Eucharistic minister. Marlene was very proud of her family and cherished spending time with all of them, especially her grandchildren and greatgrandson. She enjoyed family holidays, joking, roller skating and always having cookies and coffee for her guest. Marlene was full of joy and life. She will be missed for her contagious laugh, hard work ethic, loving presence, genuine heart,

Inez M. Stangler

A celebration of life service will be at Jubilee Worship Center in St. Cloud Monday, July 12. Visitation will be 4-5 p.m. with the memorial service following. The Rev. Mark Johnson will officiate. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Sauk Rapids. Due to the lockdown from COVID-19, we were unable to host a memorial service at that time and we will now commemorate both of our parents’ lives. After a difficult fight with COVID-19, Inez passed into the loving arms of her Savior Jesus Christ Nov. 5, 2020 at the St. Cloud Hospital. She resided at Country Manor Nursing Home for six years. Inez was born Jan. 8, 1935, to Alex Hartmann and Gertrude (Stumpf) Hartmann in Pierz. Her family then moved to Melrose where she grew up being the youngest of five girls. In May 1957, she married Ralph Stangler. After he was drafted into the Army, they moved to Colorado. He was then sent to Germany and Inez moved back to Minnesota with her new baby daughter to live with family. After Ralph returned from Germany,

Inez M. Stangler

they moved to Waite Park where they built four homes and lived in each one in succession. They then moved to a 93-apartment unit complex for 10 years when Ralph became the maintenance manager. Upon retirement they moved to Sauk Rapids into a home they never built. Inez spent some time working at Fingerhut after which she subsequently held numerous jobs; mainly in sales, which she was extremely good at and received many awards. She enjoyed conversing with people and was a telemarketer for various companies, including Sears. She also marketed for Avon, was at one time a Welcome Wagon hostess and was on the board of Women’s Aglow. She enjoyed cooking and baking, and she created many elaborate meals for her

and most importantly, the love she shared for her family. Survivors Include her children, Julie (Chad) Roste of Sauk Rapids, Jason (Racheal) Thielen of Sauk Rapids, Janel (Randy) Dorn of Sauk Rapids, and Jayme (Connie) Thielen of St. Cloud; siblings, Jim Junglen of Colorado, Carol Ann (Jack) Iten of Le Sueur, and Roger (Sue) Junglen of Andover; grandchildren, Ashley, John, Kimberly, Victoria, Michael, Carmody, David, Conrad, Brennan, Robert, Nicholas, and Maleah; great-grandson, Andy. Marlene is preceeded in death by her husband, Brennan; parents; and brother, Don Junglen. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Augustine’s Catholic Church for their building improvement project at staugs.com. Obituary, guest book and video tribute available online at www. williamsdingmann.com. R-27-1B

guests. After Inez and Ralph invited Jesus Christ to come into their hearts and surrendered their life to Him, she spent much time praying, reading her Bible, holding countless meetings and bible study groups in their home and other locations, counseling many. Inez was a great storyteller and joke teller, loved to laugh and was very sociable. She loved to spread the love of Jesus. Inez took delight in traveling and visited many U.S. states and also went on mission trips to India, Israel, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Russia, and Scotland. She furthermore went on an extended trip with her daughter throughout Europe succeeded by Israel. Inez was survived by her husband Ralph Stangler of 63 years, her daughter, Cynthia Shokeh of Sauk Rapids and granddaughter, Sarrah; his son, David (Laurie) of St. Michael; grandchildren, Jenna, Michael and Kristen; and five great grandchildren. Inez was preceded in death by her parents; four sisters and her daughter, Rebecca Stangler. Obituary, guest book and video tribute available online at www. williamsdingmann.com. R-27-1B

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | Page 5

Merlin M. Kamps

A celebration of life was 3-7 p.m. July 7 at Riverside Park in St. Cloud for Merlin M. Kamps, age 69, who passed away June 30, 2021, surrounded by his family at the University of Minnesota Medical Center in Minneapolis. There was a time of sharing at 6 p.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids. Merlin was born May 24, 1952, in Arlington to Milton and Minnetta (Ziesmer) Kamps. He married Donna Schuetz Jan. 19, 1973. Merlin was a proud alum of Augustana College. He earned a bachelor’s degree in special education and elementary education and later, his master’s in psychology. Merlin worked as a special education teacher and later, as a childrens mental health therapist. Finally, he worked with adults with special needs for Morrison County.

Merlin M. Kamps

He always felt a calling to help others. He was humble, had a subtle sense of humor, and lived every day with gratitude and an open heart. He appreciated differences in others and respected them for it. Merlin was the quintessential family man; always putting his wife, kids and grandkids first. He was a silent helper, a constant supporter, he beamed with pride when it came to his two sons, and he never departed without an “I love you.” Merlin’s pride and joy was his family. He was a wonderful man who found peace in the

Ralph J. Stangler

A celebration of life service will be at Jubilee Worship Center in St. Cloud Monday, July 12. Visitation will be 4-5 p.m. with the memorial service following. The Rev. Mark Johnson will officiate. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Sauk Rapids. All are invited to attend. Burial will be at Fort Snelling. Ralph Stangler passed into the arms of his Savior Jesus Christ June 25, 2021. He courageously battled dementia for seven years. Ralph was born Nov. 8, 1934, to Frank Stangler and Christine (Arnzen) Stangler. He grew up on a farm in St. Rosa and attended a one room schoolhouse. When Ralph completed the eighth grade, he had to quit school in order to work on the family farm. He married Inez Hartmann in May 1957. Upon being drafted into the Army they moved to Colorado. A year later, he was stationed in Germany. After being discharged, he became a carpenter and they moved to Waite Park. While working for various companies as a carpenter, he crafted his skill by building four custom homes which they lived in succession

Ralph J. Stangler

to one another with his family consisting of three children. Although he was only educated through the eighth grade, Ralph was a very knowledgeable man and self-taught to the point that he became a maintenance manager in a 93-apartment unit complex which normally required a college education. After being employed there for 10 years, he retired to a home in Sauk Rapids he never built. Ralph was always a very hard worker and tried to help anyone he met in need. They dedicated their lived to Jesus Christ in April 1978, leading a life of example as they sought to follow in the Lord’s footsteps guiding many to salvation. He served in numerous churches and held countless

outdoors. He enjoyed downhill skiing, led a very active and athletic life and constantly, had music playing in the background. He especially loved duck hunting and fishing with his boys. He was vibrant, a kid at heart, and believed even the smallest things should be celebrated. All of his values will live on in those he loved. Survivors include his wife, Donna of Sauk Rapids; sons and their wives, Andrew and Carly Burnham of St. Paul and Tyler and Kaelynn of St. Joseph; grandchildren, Carsen and Tinsley; sister and brothers, Karen Trocke of Dassel, Warren (Karen) of Cambridge and Donald (Judy) of Mason City, Iowa. Merlin was preceded in death by his parents; and brother-in-law, Robert “Bob” Trocke. Obituary and guest book available online at www. williamsdingmann.com. R-27-1B

meetings and bible study groups in their home and other locations; he was also an adviser for Women’s Aglow. He took one mission trip to Israel and did volunteer work on the West Bank in Bethlehem. Ralph enjoyed reading and studying his Bible, praying, camping, fishing, playing cards and traveling. He like to kid around and had a great sense of humor. As his daughter Cindy moved around the country to North Dakota, Utah, Florida and Dallas, he always helped her move. Ralph is survived by his daughter, Cynthia Shokeh of Sauk Rapids; granddaughter, Sarrah; his son, David (Laurie) of St. Michael; grandchildren, Jenna, Michael and Kristen; five great grandchildren; and brother, Tom (Lucille) of St. Rosa. Ralph was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years; daughter, Rebecca Stangler; parents, Frank and Christine; and siblings, Norbert, Donald, Clarence, Alice, Marge Paulsen and Regina Bergmann. Obituary, guest book and video tribute available online at www. williamsdingmann.com. R-27-1B

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

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

NEWS

Letting go

with Laurel Leaf

Sauk Rapids’ Brand offers yoga retreats in nature BY ELLARRY PRENTICE | STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – A decade ago, Laura Brand was filled with anxiety and overwhelmed with grief after losing a loved one. Major stressors were weighing down the mother of two small children. Her external and internal worlds in shambles, Brand sought reprieve in the form of a yoga retreat. “There was quiet, there was space, there was physical movement offered,” Brand said. “Quiet to breathe and notice myself and my inner workings; movement to open and let go of all the anxiety that had filled my chest; and space to shift things that had been so stuck. … I saw that yoga was a tool I could use to help manage mental health.” Today, Brand is helping others find tranquility, healing, nourishment and restoration through the mind and body practice that originated in ancient India. The Sauk Rapids-Rice High School class of 2000 graduate is the founder of Laurel Leaf Yoga and Retreats, offering day and weekend yoga retreats.

Community Education Corner

Chemistry fun activity kit

This kit will have your budding scientist exploring science with engaging experiments and activities. First, learn about primary and secondary colors with Color Mixing Magic. Then, in States of Matter, your scientist will investigate the three most common states in our environment with exciting experiments. Finally, with Silly Slime, learn why slime is delightfully bouncy, stretchy and sticky as your scientist mixes up their own batch of slime and explores its properties. This kit is more than handson. It is hands in. Be prepared to have fun and get messy. Order anytime. Pick up at Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School, 901 First St. S., Sauk Rapids.

Learning dementia

Join Cristina Rodriguez, of Silver Lining Dementia Education, as she gives tips and suggestions for learning about and understanding loved ones and dementia. Gain a better understanding of the changes in communication and learn ways to improve communication. For medical professionals, personal caregivers and the general public. July 20, 6-7 p.m. Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, Osauka Drive N.E., Sauk Rapids.

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The retreats are not restricted to a studio. Several take place in nature and some about an hour from home. In May and June, the forest bathing and outdoor yoga day retreats took serenity-seekers into a white pine forest for mediation, reflection and bathing in the healing properties of the outdoors. “The idea is simply to be present with the natural world,” Brand said. “There’s benefit in being connected with green space.” At a weekend retreat in late June, Brand led a group in channeling the transformative qualities of the summer solstice to stoke their inner fires, connecting with their personal power and celebrating the sun. Brand will return to a white pine forest in August for a meditative weekend. Starting Friday afternoon and wrapping up Sunday morning, the retreat will explore yoga techniques and styles as well as mandala painting. No artistic or yoga experience is necessary; the only requirement is an open mind and a willing spirit, she said. Brand’s local day retreats invite people to practice yoga outdoors every week. Outdoor retreats, weather permitting, take place at 6 p.m. Thursday evenings at Mississippi River County Park and other locations in Sauk Rapids, Rice and Sartell. “I feel strongly about being outside, being present with nature,” Brand said. Laurel Leaf Yoga and Retreats also offers drop-in online yoga classes four days a week. Online classes last about 75 minutes and are recorded. Brand, who first tried yoga while studying abroad in Costa Rica, has been a yoga instructor for eight years. She launched her own business a year ago, naming it after laurel leaves, which have been said to symbolize victory after struggle. “I think it’s so important for people to have space and time away from their life for quiet,” Brand said. “In that quiet stillness, you can find clarity as well as nourishment for your mind, your body and your spirit.” Yoga is not just a physical exercise, Brand said. Yoga fosters harmony between the mind, body and environment. Movement, meditation, breathing techniques and other elements associated with the practice of yoga promote both mental and physical wellbeing. The benefits of regular yoga practice are endless, Brand said. “There is so much depth,” she said. Brand loves the creative possibilities that come with planning, organizing and teaching yoga retreats. The best part, she said, is when people start to connect with their bodies on a deeper level. “They notice things that they haven’t noticed before, and it starts to alleviate some of the physical, mental or emotional suffering that they have had,” she said.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Laura Brand stands in the tree pose at the entrance of the labyrinth outside the ARC Retreat Center in Stanchfield. Brand, of Sauk Rapids, is the founder of Laurel Leaf Yoga and Retreats, offering day and weekend yoga retreats.

In April, Brand participated in a Healing Space retreat that offered healing therapies such as Reiki and a brain-reset therapy called QNRT. Journaling and reflective questions are some of the meditative elements Brand likes to incorporate in her classes and retreats. Through self-study, selfreflection and self-observation, people become more aware of their emotions and their thoughts, which helps them better love and care for themselves and others, Brand said. One of Brand’s goals is to further help people balance, or keep open, their chakras with yoga. Chakras are the seven energy centers in the body, starting at the base of the spine and extending to the crown of the head. If the chakras are out of balance, people can experience physical and emotional issues. Brand is grateful she took a chance on her first yoga retreat. Turning her passion into a full-time career, leading her own retreats and helping others live happier, healthier, more fulfilled lives has been a dream come true. “I sincerely hope yoga can benefit your life as much as it has mine,” Brand said. “Breathe. Make space. See what happens.”

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | Page 7

Tri-CAP’s Transit Connection provides safe, dependable, affordable and courteous transportation services for the general public in rural Benton, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Sherburne, and Stearns Counties.

Operations Manager- Safety & Training Wanted We are looking for an enthusiastic and caring individual who is organized, committed to excellent customer service, teamwork and can manage a busy workload. Primary responsibilities for this full-time, exempt position located in our Waite Park location include:

• Training & supervision of Lead Drivers in assigned transit sites. • Develop & implement training plans for Transportation department staff. • Develop & maintain procedures for driver qualifications, DOT physical requirements, training and recertifications, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations (e.g., MNDOT, STS and FTA regulations). • Assist in ensuring FTA safety and security plans are up-to-date and administered correctly. • Monitor security camera systems on buses. Reviews cameras for safe driving practices, driver performance, consumer complaints, incidents and accidents. • Provide back up to Operations Managers and Lead Drivers as necessary. • Respond to external customer questions and resolve problems. • Develop and monitor a system to ensure proper maintenance of all transit facilities. • Build relationships in the community to increase ridership and volunteerism. • Evaluate service delivery, assesses equipment, routes, and schedules for deficiencies and makes effective plans and recommendations to improve service delivery.

Annual salary: $50,000+, excellent benefits.

QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor’s Degree with two (2) years’ of experience in social service setting preferred or a combination of five (5) years’ experience and education. • Current CDL driver’s license with passenger endorsement/ability to obtain. Bus driving experience preferred. • Two years of supervisory experience. • Strong written and verbal communications skills. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and agency software programs. • Ability to develop and maintain program budgets. • Ability to pass criminal background check and DMV check. • Knowledge of the Drug and Alcohol Policy and regulations in order to make reasonable suspicion determinations to recognize signs and symptoms of drug and/or alcohol misuse. • Ability to work sensitively with a wide range of passenger needs including developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, memory loss, as well as difficult or uncooperative customers.

Scheduling/Dispatch Coordinators Wanted We are looking for enthusiastic and caring individuals who are committed to excellent customer service, teamwork and can manage a bustling work environment and varied workload with a calm demeanor and positive attitude. We have full-time (40 hours/week) and part-time (25 hours/week) positions in our Waite Park location.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Answer incoming calls from customers, providing excellent customer service. • Schedule rides and assign to appropriate bus routes using navigation software for both public transit and volunteer driver programs. • Communicate trip assignments using technology, monitor routes and work with drivers to improve efficiencies and customer service. • Monitor routes and work with drivers to make any changes for efficiency and quality service. • Complete data reporting for rides and billing requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS: • Associate’s degree in business and three years of relevant administrative experience, or a combination of five years education/experience. • Excellent verbal communication skills and customer service skills. • Highly proficient with Windows office products. • Ability to maintain concentration in a multi-person office setting with frequent interruptions. • Familiar with navigation/mapping technology, preferred. • Experience in scheduling/dispatch, preferred. • Highly organized, attention to detail, analytical thinking skills. • Must have availability Monday-Saturday and 6am-6pm.

Starting wage is $17.01 per hour, plus benefits and comprehensive training!

Bus Drivers Wanted We are looking for a compassionate, enthusiastic, caring and dependable individuals to fill the following Bus Driving positions within our service areas:

Lead Driver – Waite Park

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Supervision of drivers- assign duties, schedule routes, evaluate performance, coach, and conduct necessary corrective action. • Assist in hiring, training and orientation of staff. • Approve time off requests, verify accuracy of timesheets, ensure proper staffing and scheduling operations of the department to meet customer needs. • Fulfill regular Bus Driver duties. • Communicate with dispatch and drivers using tablets and two-way radios. • Understand, model and enforce all agency and department policies and procedures. • Supervise completion of daily, weekly and annual bus inspections, maintenance and repair. • Supervise bus storage facility, grounds and related equipment cleaning, maintenance and repair.

Starting wage is $21.83 per hour and includes benefits.

Bus Drivers

We have a variety of route schedules available in each community we serve and we provide comprehensive training! • FT & PT Bus Drivers in Little Falls • PT Bus Driver in Elk River • Relief Driver opportunities also available in all locations

• Safely operate bus on assigned route, staying on schedule and providing excellent service to customers. • Assist passengers as needed with mobility aids including wheelchairs, walkers or other aids, assuring that all passengers are secured properly and all mobility aids are stowed securely. • Conduct daily and weekly vehicle inspections and report defects to Lead Driver. • Monitor fare collection from passengers. • Complete paperwork related to bus operation and passenger concerns. • Be responsible for daily cleaning and bus maintenance.

Starting wage is $17.88 per hour. QUALIFICATIONS: • CDL with a passenger endorsement, MNDOT medical exam card, or ability to obtain. • Pass a DMV and criminal background check. • Ability to comply with FTA drug and alcohol testing regulations. • Pre-employment drug screening, as well as random testing protocol. • Excellent customer service and communication skills. • Proficient with computers and navigation technology.

Please apply online at our website: www.tricap.org and complete/submit the online application materials or email hr@tricap.org or call 320-257-4511 to request the application. Position is open until filled. The mission of Tri-CAP is to enhance and expand opportunities for the economic and social well-being of our residents and our communities.

www.tricap.org | general@tricap.org | (320) 251-1612 or (888) 765-5597 | 1210 23rd Ave South, Waite Park MN 56387 EOE/AA/ADA

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Page 8 | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

OPINION

Wild Minnesota orchids Did you know that the Minnesota state flower, the showy lady’s slipper, is an orchid? And that Minnesota has over 40 native orchids? Orchids form a large plant family and grow in various GREEN AND places. Twenty-five GROWING IN BENTON COUNTY of the orchids that grow in Minnesota BY LINDA G. TENNESON do so in wetlands, where our state flower may be found in northern Minnesota. The yellow lady’s slipper is similar, differing in color but also more tolerant in where it can grow. The yellow version prefers drier areas near the edge of trees where it receives sunlight. In the Bemidji area, it will grow but not bloom if trees shade it too much. Not all orchids have a lady’s slipper configuration. Orchids have three sepals and three petals, one of which has a distinctive shape. This third petal is the one that looks like a slipper in the state flower and its close relatives, the yellow lady’s slipper, the small white lady’s slipper and the bright pink stemless lady’s slipper. Orchids all have the same sepals and petals, but they form different shapes. These shapes are difficult to describe so consulting a reference book or computer article with pictures is a good idea. The book “Native Orchids of Minnesota” by Welby R. Smith and published by University of Minnesota Press has extensive descriptions of all orchids that grow in the state along with a county map showing where each variety may be found. Some of the more unusual orchids are the Lily-leaved Twayblade and the Showy Orchis that grow in the Twin Cities metro area and look entirely different than lady’s slippers. The Purple Fringed Orchid also likes to grow in damp and open places, but its bloom is small and has what looks like a fan or fringe instead of a slipper form. It also is found in marsh areas. The northern Bog Orchid looks like a tall green spike growing out of a cluster of leaves. The blooms are fragrant and may be pollinated by mosquitoes. While many orchids grow on trees with their roots in the air or in pockets of bark, those orchids that appear to grow in soil need a special relationship with mycorrhizal fungi found in the soil of old growth forests in order to grow. The fungi enable the orchid roots to draw nutrients from the soil which they could not do without help. Wild orchids should not be removed from their environment because they are unlikely to grow in a new location where the needed fungi are not available. It is illegal to remove the state flower and other protected orchids from state land. Lady’s slippers may be removed from private property only with the owner’s permission. This law also covers other native flowers such as trilliums, gentians, bloodroot and others. There are several varieties of lady’s slippers that have been grown from seed in laboratories and are legally sold. Horticultural information is usually provided with the plants to help the gardener successfully raise these orchids. Linda G. Tenneson is a University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener and Tree Care Advisor.

Exercising mercy

We’ve been really off. Spousal, off ing.” course, unrealistic standard-osis. (It’s a Oh, the condition of my heart was so thing.) stinky. I let it build up to the point I felt my We’ve missed church for four weeks to husband deserved all that I had to say of what avoid the littles getting sick before our big I thought about his standards. I can’t tell you trip. We have not set aside time to seek God the condition of my husband’s heart because, first. I’ve been playing my tiny violin in to be crass, it’s none of your business. And woe-is-me tunes for my own suffering. to be frank, it’s none of my business either. I can’t meet my spouse’s high standards His heart is for me to love, help and lift up for the number of days in a row of a clean in prayer to its creator and savior daily, so BY FAITH house. And instead of helping him under- BYLIFE MERCY NYGAARD that the only creator and savior who can give stand that, I shake my fist while growling, a new heart will pull the stings on his. God “Why did the Lord build this man to have prompts my husband to hand his heart over such high flipping standards?” fully to the one who makes all things new so he will It’s a constant source of discouragement because I desire to receive new. raise my bar to achieve a compliment and am unableGuilty is my charge of becoming lazy in prayer. to meet the unrealistic bar which is set too high on the Guilty is my charge in not checking my own heart (it shelf. And no one knows how much it torments me. was hardening). All these years I’ve been praying for But that’s not true, is it? God knows. grace, and now I see it’s mercy my heart has been longI did not lean into the Lord’s help, equip myself ing for all along and the ability to give mercy in return. with his armor or take his yoke when I had it. I let In this moment of being given the revelation that my husband have it instead. I even tried to justify all my faith had faltered, I swallowed my pride and apolothat I laid into him for by opening my memo and be- gized, “I’m sorry for saying all of those things the way gan keeping a record of wrongs. I can show you in the I did.” Bible where that action is not love. He replied, “You must have meant it because you Then, I remembered that a few days prior a friend said all of that.” sent me an excerpt she read about mercy and thought “I just have a really hard time dealing with difficult of me. I was in the passenger seat while my husband things I deserve anyway,” I explained. was driving, hurt by my words and chewing on them He finished the conversation with, “We all do.” like stinging nettle. So, I figured now was a good time Isn’t that the truth. to read. The truth is my spouse can’t meet my standards I read, over and over I read. either. So, mercy is my prayer and my reminder to “The power of just mercy is that it belongs to the squash self-victimizing. undeserving. When mercy is least expected is when Joni Eareckson Tada said, “Suffering provides the it’s most potent – strong enough to break the cycle of gym equipment on which my faith can be exercised.” victimization and victimhood, retribution and suffer-

Traditional letters to the editor policy 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 5 p.m. Wednesday. E-mail to natasha@saukherald.com

OPINION

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | Page 9

Lemonade My heart felt a surge of warmth June feature stories, which is true, but I should 24 when I was photographing the Tanhave elaborated to say that the best stoner’s Team 1K/5K at Bob Cross Park in ries are about people like Lucas and the Sauk Rapids. Fuls family. A little red-haired boy named LuTheir stories are both broken and cas ran the 1K with his parents and little beautiful, and they show us that we can brother. Lucas wasn’t just a runner. He is take the sourest lemons life has to offer a survivor. That morning, his mom told and turn them into lemonade. me he has been cancer-free for a year. John, Cindy, Maddie and their team Lucas is a member of Tanner’s Team EXPRESSIONS BY EL have made a lot of lemonade since losing Foundation, established in memory of BY ELLARRY PRENTICE Tanner. Their empathy and compassion Tanner Fuls, another red-haired boy from for other families who have or are goSauk Rapids who taught his family how ing through a similar experience is what to live, laugh and listen. Tanner’s family – mom, Cin- makes the sour turn sweet. dy; dad, John; and sister, Maddie – created a foundaDevastating events are out of our control, but I’ve tion in his memory that has helped Lucas and many come to realize it’s our choice if we let ourselves beother central Minnesota children with life-threatening come bitter fruit or the pitchers that fill the cups of illnesses. others in need. Two days before the event, while covering the Thank you, John, Cindy and Maddie, for makMiss Sauk Rapids Pageant, a community member ing lemonade and for keeping Tanner’s memory and asked me about my favorite stories to write. I said legacy alive.

BREAK CROSSWORD

June weather, phenology in review

Weather: Temperature averages were house by the lake, and their cheery song is warmer by about 1 degree than last year at a welcome sound. a high of 81.55 degrees and low of 56.68 At least so far, a serious decline in degrees. I thought it felt warmer. Howbutterflies, most notable monarchs. Just a ever, examining the temperatures, we had couple of them along with an eastern tiger seven days with 90 degrees or more comswallow tail, white admiral, pearl crespared to six last year. I was surprised. The cent and Aphrodite fritillary. No clouded warmest days were 94 degrees June 4 and sulphur or cabbage butterflies have been June 8. The coolest days were 41 degrees, spotted. Most butterflies favor the swamp occurring June 21-22. milkweed that is in bloom. FROM THE t It was a relatively dry month with NORTH SHORE OF A major irritation: raccoons. They only 2.11 inches occurring on five days. LITTLE ROCK LAKE are after the bird feeders and some plants. The most rain fell June 20 when I gladly A couple of weeks ago, three or four large BY JIM HOVDA measured .81 of an inch. There were long soft-shell turtles dug holes and deposited stretches without rain. That made it a dry month. The eggs in the soft sand on the lake shore. The raccoon garden got water, but the lawn did not. I gave up try- found at least two, dug up the eggs and ate them. We ing to keep the grass green. will deal with the raccoons. Turtles are more imporLocal weather records for June: The record tant. There are fewer turtles with no shortage of raccold was a 32-degree reading in 1994 while the warm coons. record was 102 degrees in 1931. The most rain, 10.91 Little Rock Lake: Lake levels have remained inches, fell on the north side of Little Rock Lake in stable. At the beginning of the month, the water tem2014. The most tornadoes statewide occurred June perature was 62 degrees, rising to 75 degrees June 6 and then dropping to 73 at month’s end. Water clarity t 17, 2010, when 48 tornadoes touched down. Phenology: Birds first. The grackles, red-wing measured by my Secchi disk has eroded starting at 6 blackbirds and blue jays are consuming cracked corn feet, 5 inches June 1, declining to 2.5 feet June 30. at an unbelievable rate. I go through a 6-gallon pail in There is a lot of curly-leaf pond weed. Only a few t about a week. A new arrival was a killdeer who has small patches of wire reeds remain. They are protectseemed to find a home on our lake shore. Of note, ed by colored ribbon to fend off the geese. Many fault hummingbird numbers are down, but there are a lot of the geese for the major destruction of the thousands orioles. About a half dozen purple martins are in the planted by volunteers.

Letter to the Editor Rep. Tom Emmer, Minnesota’s 6th Congressional District Prior to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, one of my favorite opportunities as a member of Congress was walking through the rotunda with constituents on a tour of the Capitol. No matter how many groups we led through the House and Senate chambers, walking through the hallowed halls and looking at the artwork depicting some of our nation’s most important moments was always a humbling experience. Among the numerous paintings displayed in the Capitol is the “Declaration of Independence” by John Trumbull. Although the 12-by-18 painting looms large in the rotunda, we’ve all seen it in our school history books, and it’s the reason we celebrated last weekend. We are citizens of an independent nation with all the freedoms that come with it. But like the many depictions of liberty lining the halls of our Capitol, there are countless moments that have kept America free. These moments aren’t only in our history books.

They happen every day: When our courts uphold our civil liberties; when servicemen and women put their lives on the line to defend our freedom. Our freedom and independence are always being tested, but we have always found the strength to band together and defend them. America is a collection of ideas and values that set us apart from the rest of the world. We are committed to this experiment, and we’ve repeatedly decided as a nation to build on these freedoms endowed by our creator because future generations deserve the opportunities we have today and more. And when we sometimes fall short of whatever we’re trying to accomplish, our values keep us consistent, resilient and, ultimately, one united nation under God. Over the last 245 years, our nation has weathered turmoil and strife. It has been at war with itself and survived. No matter what the future holds, if we remain committed to the principles of freedom and opportunity, we will persevere. I hope you will join me in working to usher in a brighter tomorrow for these United States of America.

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Page 10 | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

NEWS

Crime & Public Safety

Planning continues for August festival

Sauk Rapids woman charged with assaulting peace officer

ST. CLOUD – A Sauk Rapids woman is in jail after allegedly assaulting a police officer July 6. Caitlin Marie Pietrzak, 28, is charged with felony fourthdegree assault for bodily harm of a peace officer. Pietrzak faces up to three years imprisonment and a $6,000 fine for the offense. According to a criminal complaint filed in Stearns County, law enforcement responded to a reported overCaitlin Marie dose in the city of Waite Park Pietrzak July 6. Officers assisted the suspected overdose patient until emergency medical service arrived. Then, officers began to interview witnesses regarding an assault that they had been told took place prior to their arrival. As authorities questioned Pietrzak, they confirmed she had an active warrant for her arrest. Pietrzak also appeared to be under the influence, according to the report. As officers placed Pietrzak under arrest, she began yelling and fighting with officers. One officer was kicked in the legs, had a finger bitten and was kicked in the face, which left a visible red mark. A second woman, Britny Ann Swenson, 24, interfered with Pietrzak’s arrest and began fighting with officers. Swenson was also arrested for assault on a peace officer. Pietrzak’s bail is set for $20,000. Her next court date is Aug. 16.

City establishes committee for The Wall that Heals event BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

RICE – As more details are being solidified and more questions are being asked, the city of Rice continues to address August festivities. At its meeting July 6, council members approved a large gathering permit for a portion of the Aug. 21 events and moved to create a committee that would coordinate information from various groups and businesses so city staff are aware and prepared to host The Wall that Heals. “We don’t want people to come in from all over and we are discombobulated,” said council member Paula Kampa, who recommended the committee. The Wall that Heals, a scaleddown replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall found in Washington, D.C., will be displayed for public viewing near the Rice Elementary School Aug. 19-22, bringing increased traffic to the city. The display will coincide with the community festival Aug. 21, which will feature a parade, lawn tractor pull, movie night and party in the park. The committee will include council members Kampa and Michelle Keller, clerk Julie Fandel, Rice Police Chief Ross Hamann and others. Meanwhile, other details of the day are coming together. Mark Larson, who will host the lawn tractor pull at the Old Creamery Café, has coordinated with Immacu-

Sauk Rapids man receives life-threatening injuries in Highway 95 collision

ST. CLOUD – A Sauk Rapids man is fighting for his life following a collision on Highway 95 that the Minnesota State Patrol said may have been caused by distracted driving due to cell phone use. Brad William Eager, 49, was transported to the St. Cloud Hospital July 1 after a vehicle driven by Carter Thomas Beckler, 20, of Staples, crossed the center line. The incident happened at the intersection of Highway 95 and 180th Avenue Northeast in Glendorado Township. The state patrol reported Eager was westbound on Highway 95. Beckler was eastbound on the same road when he swerved to avoid a stopped vehicle that was waiting to make a lefthand turn. Beckler sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was also transported to the St. Cloud Hospital. Authorities suspect Beckler was using a cell phone at the time of the incident. The crash remains under investigation. The Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Foley Fire Department and North Memorial Health Ambulance Service assisted at the scene.

Sauk Rapids Police Department June 30, 2:53 p.m. – An individual reported finding a small bag of what she believed was heroin. The bag was not consistent with heroin an d contained a small brown leafy substance. The bag had no smell and tested negative for all narcotics at the police department.

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July 2, 9:48 p.m. – A vehicle ran a red light at the intersection of Second Avenue North and Second Street North. The vehicle was stopped. Upon contact, the driver said he was looking at fireworks and not the stop light. A verbal warning was given. R27-EOWTFN-TV

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notify the property owners regarding the lawn mowing ordinance and remedy the situation prior to the event. In other council news: – Fandel updated the council on resident concerns over water bills. She received three calls from account holders. One account holder was concerned over price increases and the other two had questions because they were new to town or concerned as to whether they were watering properly. The city of Rice has an odd-even watering policy where property owners are allowed to irrigate their lawns in accordance with their numbered address. In regards to rate increases, Fandel said she invited the gentleman to make an appearance at the council meeting during open forum and reiterated the water fee structure. She said she also explained the number of meetings leading up to a fee increases which happen in January. Scheel noted that water and sewer funds are enterprise funds. The funds need to account for depreciation, expense and maintenance. He said the city is working toward funding a well project as well as a water tower refurbishment. Scheel also said some water and sewer lines in the city are over 30 years old and need to be replaced. Council members asked about whether Rice would need a water ban. Fandel said the public works employees have been monitoring the situation closely and as of Tuesday’s meeting, there has not been a need. – The city of Rice newsletter was missing dates for the Police Activities League. PAL runs 6-7:30 p.m. July 22 through Aug. 19 for children ages 5-15. The Thursday evening events take place at Westside Park, 101 Fourth Ave. N.W., Rice.

Police Report June 28 to July 4

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late Conception Church to provide additional parking on their cemetery grounds for those visiting that day. With increased traffic to the town, parking is a concern. Fandel said the city has limited parking and can only offer public parking across from O’Brien’s and Shady’s bars as the city hall parking lot will need to be open for fire and rescue response personnel. She also asked whether the city should prohibit parking on one side of its streets during the event. Rice Police Chief Ross Hamann and council members Chris Scheel and Emily Walters agreed that when cars park on both sides on the street, it becomes difficult for cars and emergency vehicles to navigate the roadways. “You wouldn’t get an ambulance or fire truck down (with cars parked on both sides of the street),” Hamann said. Jim Hovda, who was added to the agenda to allow for his ideas, suggested parade route changes as well as commented on properties on the west side of Division Street. He pointed out the city’s lawn mowing ordinance and the growing weeds on some properties. Hovda also asked the city to look into beautification efforts in the future such as finding the flower pots which were once placed along Main Street and looking into grants for decorative lighting. Scheel, who was acting as mayor in Brian Skroch’s absence, thanked Hovda for his comments and said, “hank you for bringing this up. We need this; we need people like you to bring this up because we can’t think of it all. So, I appreciate your time.” Scheel explained the parade route adaptation was made due to traffic congestion and is a one-year change. He also said the city will

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July 3, 2:18 p.m. – A fire alarm was reported at a multifamily dwelling on the 1200 block of 15th Street Northeast. An alarm panel indicated a smoke alarm outside an apartment on the second floor had been activated. While waiting for the fire department to arrive, officers investigated. The area smelled as though somebody had burned food on the second floor. No signs of fire were discovered. The fire department further investigated, reset the alarm panel, and the officers cleared the scene.

domestics 4, fireworks 4, fraud calls 4, warnings 4, child calls 3, disorderly conduct reports 3, disputes 3, driving complaints 3, violations of court orders 3, DUIs/DWIs 2, parking violations 2, traffic hazards 2, utility problems 2, unwanted persons 2 and warrants 2.

Rice Police Department

July 2, 9:14 p.m. – Law enforcement was dispatched to the 200 block of Second Avenue Court Southwest for a home filled with smoke and smoke alarms sounding. An officer and a Benton County Sheriff’s Office deputy arrived on scene as a woman was coming out of the home with a cat in her hands. The woman said she was a neighbor and that she had informed the homeowner who were not home. She said no one was inside, but two cats remained in the building. The officer did a quick glance from the door for flames, people or animals and then closed the door to avoid adding oxygen to the home, which would fuel the fire. Law enforcement secured the scene while awaiting response from the Rice Fire Department. RFD located a small fire in a dryer in a utility room. Officers stayed on scene for traffic control until all units cleared the scene.

Incidents: Suspicious activity reports 24, assists 19, medical calls 19, miscellaneous calls 11, welfare Incidents: Miscellaneous calls 9, agency assists 3, checks 11, animal complaints 10, thefts 10, property suspicious activity reports 2 and traffic stops 2. calls 9, alarms 6, traffic stops 6, harassment calls 5, traffic accidents 5, civil complaints 5, disturbances 4,

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | Page 11

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Page 12 | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | Page 13

Stephanie Taszarek (from left), Sami Clark, Ellie Hartman and Nathan Hartman, all of Sauk Rapids, enjoy music from Paul Diethelm at Riverside Nights July 1 in Sauk Rapids. Diethelm performed a variety of classic hits from artists like Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan and Pink Floyd.

Audience members raise their drinks during a German song led by opening performer Paul Diethelm July 1 in Sauk Rapids. His performance was followed by headliner Strange Daze.

PHOTOS BY ELLARRY PRENTICE

Sauk Rapids City Council member Ellen Thronson (center) cuts a ribbon alongside fellow council members Jason Ellering (from left) and Nick Sauer, city administrator Ross Olson and former mayor and housing and redevelopment authority Mark Campell July 1 at The Clearing, the new riverside parks complex, in Sauk Rapids. The ribboncutting celebrated the grand opening of the park.

e Clearing, Riverside Nights

Henry (from left), Rebecca, Elise and Clare Schroeder, of Sauk Rapids, sit along the riverside while at The Clearing July 1 in Sauk Rapids. They sat on a grass hill that provides scenic views of the Mississippi River below. Music fans Cameron Schroeder (left) and Jerry Cole, both of Sauk Rapids, sing along to musician Paul Diethelm’s cover of “King of the Road” at 1851 Square. Music will be performed every Thursday at the new venue as part of the Riverside Nights summer concert series.

make grand debutt

Barry Penly and Jenny Johnson, of St. Cloud, clap to the music July 1 at 1851 Square along the Mississippi River in Sauk Rapids. The new outdoor amphitheater features a sound system suitable for bands of all sizes.

City holds ribbon-cutting ceremony at new venue along Mississippi River

Paul “Stretch” Diethelm gives the first-ever performance July 1 at 1851 Square, the new outdoor amphitheater overlooking the Mississippi River in Sauk Rapids. Diethelm is lead guitarist of The Fabulous Armadillos.

BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – Cheers, applause and music abounded along the Mississippi River July 1 in Sauk Rapids as The Clearing made its debut to the public. A large crowd attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony held by Mayor Kurt Hunstiger, city administrator Ross Olson, the Sauk Rapids City Council and city staff. City officials were joined by Benton County commissioners and members of a committee that spearheaded planning and development of the $9.1 million parks renovation project. The new riverside venue features a large event center rental room, interactive water feature and outdoor amphitheater. The complex includes the existing Southside and Sauk Rapids Lion Sunset parks. “We are extremely proud to provide this community asset to not only the citizens of Sauk Rapids but to the central Minnesota region as well,” Olson said. Mayor Hunstiger introduced the facilities. Riverside Terrace is an event center offering a clear view of the water. The space can be rented for wedding receptions, corporate parties and other events. The Lookout is a building offering

views of both the river and the interactive water feature. The space can be rented for small birthday parties, retreats and group meetings. 1851 Square is an outdoor amphitheater overlooking the Mississippi River. Featuring a sound system suitable for bands of all sizes, the facility is named after the year Sauk Rapids’ first permanent home, Linden Terrace, was built. “It’s a gathering place, or central place, where people come together,” Hunstiger said. After the ceremony, Riverside Nights kicked off at 1851 Square. The new summer concert series will offer music every Thursday from 5:30-9:30 p.m. through Sept. 2.

Paul Diethelm was the first music act to take the stage. His performance was followed by headliner Strange Daze. Residents were excited about the concert and the venue, including music buff Jerry Cole, of Sauk Rapids, who travels all over to see musical talent. “It’s an international love,” he said of music, pointing to the crowd behind him. “Look what this does. It builds you. It does not tear you down.” Fellow Sauk Rapids resident Cameron Schroeder was impressed with 1851 Square and the entire complex. “This is fantastic, absolutely fantastic,” Schroeder said. “Money absolutely well spent. What a way to bring the community together.”

Mayor Kurt Hunstiger speaks at a grand opening ceremony for The Clearing July 1 in Sauk Rapids. Pictured behind Hunstiger are city finance director Jack Kahlhammer (from left), Miss Sauk Rapids Taylor Sidla, community development director Todd Schultz, city council member Jason Ellering, city council member Nick Sauer, city council member Ellen Thronson, city administrator Ross Olson, former mayor Mark Campbell, Benton County Commissioner Jared Gapinski and Benton County Commissioner Steve Heinen.

A large crowd gathers to enjoy live music July 1 at The Clearing in Sauk Rapids. Several people brought their own lawn chairs and ate by the river.

Paul Diethelm impresses a large audience with his guitar July 1. He was the first musician to take the stage at the new venue.

NEWS

Page 14 | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Surviving

Camp Benton 4-H’ers learn skills at four-day fairgrounds event BY ANN OLSON UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION EDUCATOR

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Sauk Rapids Fire Department members – firefighter Deelia Guite (front), firefighter Kaden Cahill (back, left) and captain Steve Ellson – teach Benton County 4-H campers about survival skills and fire prevention at the Benton County Fairgrounds in Sauk Rapids. Campers also explored the fire truck and its equipment.

Sauk Rapids siblings – second grader Edith Clausen, fourth grader Estelle Clausen and fifth grader Weston Clausen – laugh while skits are performed by Benton County 4-H camp counselors at Camp Benton Survivor in Sauk Rapids. The event was hosted June 28 through July 1 at the Benton County Fairgrounds.

FOLEY – Benton County 4-H Camp Benton Survivor was a success with smiles, laughs and campers learning new skills June 28 to July 1. Because the annual affair traditionally takes place overnight in areas such as Zimmerman or South Haven, many 4-H’ers were concerned whether the adapted event at the Benton County Fairgrounds would be as much fun. Reports described the event as extraordinary. Fifteen camp counselors – four whom were new to the role – prepared a fun and educational week. Their commitment to preparations, hard work, endless energy, awesome social skills, dedication to the 4-H motto and positive spirit exceeded expectations. The campers’ excitement fueled and enhanced the experience.

With a survivor theme, campers learned survival skills, and special speakers highlighted six sessions. Session 1 was featured Sauk Rapids firefighters. Captain Steve Ellson and firefighters Kaden Cahill and Deelia Guite spoke to campers about fire prevention and survivor strategies. The campers toured a firetruck and learned about firefighting gear. In session 2, officer Tim Sigler, of the Sauk Rapids Police Department, arrived in a new police squad that had not yet been on a call. The campers learned about the vehicle and equipment capabilities. “Well at least with a brandnew police car, the people who get arrested get to have a nice new car smell,” said Jasmine Brenny, of Rice. Officer Sigler laughed. “Well, I am pretty sure that new smell won’t last long,” he said. Campers learned outdoor

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

(Above) Representatives of Benton County 4-H – camp counselor Kassidy Beack, chaperone Russ Beachamp, head camp counselor Emery Olson, chaperone Nancy Zupan, camp counselor Joseph Achen and chaperone Bonnita Bernhardt – get ready to serve dinner at the fairgrounds in Sauk Rapids. Fifteen camp counselors led the four-day event.

cooking, fire-building safety and made a sandwich during session 3, and in session 4, campers solved a survivor breakout mystery. Participants made compasses in session 5, and U.S. Army National Guard members – Danielle Belanger and Austin Ironi – visited the fairgrounds for session 6. Belanger, a former camp counselor, and Ironi shared survival facts and advice on what to do if a person is lost. They also presented survival supplies and built a tent while fielding questions. Camp Benton Survivor also featured a competition. Campers were divided into five tribes with specific camp counselors for their days at camp. They were challenged to create a skit using random items and then performed the skit in front of the group. They also competed in a survival relay, played a survival challenge game, sang, danced and more. “I wasn’t sure at first about being a counselor,” said Joseph Achen, a junior at Royalton High School and new member of Benton County 4-H. “I had no idea how much fun this would be and how great the campers would be. I am so glad I decided to do this.” Adult 4-H volunteers Bonnita Bernhardt, Russ Beauchamp, Nancy Zupan and Joyce Belanger made sure campers and counselors were well fed and looked after, and Camp counselors Aubrey Ratka (from left), Emery Olson and Sammy 4-H intern Rachel Danielson Lewandowski perform a skit for Camp Benton, an annual event helped facilitate and assist camp hosted by Benton County 4-H. This year’s camp had a survivor theme. counselors during the week.

PUBLIC NOTICES/ NEWS

Page 18 | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Public Notices WATAB TOWNSHIP BENTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA NOTICE OF IMPROVEMENT HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Town Board of Watab Township will meet at the Watab Township Hall, 660 75th Street N.W., Watab, Minnesota at 7 p.m. on July 13, 2021, to consider the reconstruction of all roads located in the plat of Lake Andrew in Watab Township, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Sections 429.011 to 429.111. The area proposed to be assessed for the costs of such improvement consists of all numbered lots within the platted subdivision of Lake Andrew. The estimated cost of the improvement is $751,000.00. A resonable estimate of the impact of the assessment will be available at the hearing. Such persons as desire to be heard with reference to the proposed improvement will be heard at this meeting. Dated: June 15, 2021 /s/ Kathy Sauer Watab Township Clerk PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER R-24-3B Harvey Shaw (front, from left), Don Benoit, Kirk Kedrowski, Donald Posch, Gary Kardell, Butch Kipka; and (back) Ken Shaw gather to celebrate Posch’s 80th birthday June 17 at Coborn’s deli in Sauk Rapids. Posch and the coffee klatch meet almost daily and prior to its closing and demolition frequented “Perkins in the Pines” on Second Street North NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING in Sauk Rapids. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Benton County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on July 22nd, 2021 the Commissioner’s Room, Benton County Government Center, Foley, and beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Planning Commission will hear the following: 1. David and Elaine Watts requesting a conditional use permit to use an alternative flood proofing method for an accessory structure in the R-2 Residential District. Pursuant “You meet a lot of to Sections 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4 of the Flood Plain Management nice people and you enjoy Ordinance and Section 11.6 of the Development Code The affected property is described as follows: south 25 ft of Lot 1 & it,” Posch said of being Lot 2 less the south 25 ft, Miller’s Lake Shore Acres, Section 11, Section Watab Township. 2. Ronald Welle and Patty Meyer requesting a conditional use permit to use fill as a flood proofing method to elevate an accessory structure in the R-3 Residential District. Pursuant to Sections 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4 of the Flood Plain Management Ordinance and Section 11.6 of the Development Code. The affected property is described as follows: part of Gov’t Lot 4, Section 34, Watab Township. ANYONE with comments regarding the above will be heard at this meeting. Contact the Department of Development if you’d like to attend the meeting by phone or computer. Email Roxanne Achman at Roxanne.Achman@co.benton.mn.us or by phone: 320-968-5069. FR-27-1B

Posch

from page 17

involved. “You’re helping the community and the people.” Wucherer said Posch is an extrovert who has thrived on the interaction volunteering has provided.

“He’s a really social person,” Wucherer said. “That’s one note we made initially when we did our enrollment with him. He’s a people person and wants to be a part of the community and volunteer

because he has that need to socialize and be with other people. As well as, of course, he has a big heart.”

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333 ASSUMED NAME: Enjoying Motherhood. PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 707 2nd Ave S, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 United States. NAMEHOLDER(S): Marie C Keiser, 707 2nd Ave S, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 United States. (4) By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER the information in this document is true and correct and in The Poshes – Doris, Donald and their son Jeff – stand inside Coborn’s in Sauk Rapids June 17 as they celebrate Don’s compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Stat- 80th birthday with family and friends. Don officially turned 80 years old June 24. utes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. /s/ Marie Keiser 06/24/2021 Public Notices R-26-2P CITY OF RICE, MINNESOTA Annual Disclosure of Tax Increment Districts for the Year Ended December 31, 2020 Name of TIF District:

Current net tax capacity Original net tax capacity Captured net tax capacity Principal and interest payment due in 2021 Tax increment received in 2020 Tax increment expended in 2020 First tax increment receipt Date of required decertification Increased property taxes as a result of fiscal disparities

TIF 1 - 8 Roach Rental 22,694 289 22,405 40,859 28,426 25,534 July, 2013 December 31, 2038 0

Additional information regarding each district may be obtained from: Julie Fandel, City Clerk City of Rice 205 Main Street East, PO Box 22 Rice, MN 56367 Phone: 320-393-2280 jfandel@ricemn.us

CITY OF SAUK RAPIDS SAUK RAPIDS, MINNESOTA ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS 2021 Bituminous Seal Coating NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sealed Proposals will be received by the City Administrator of the City of Sauk Rapids at 250 Summit Avenue North, Sauk Rapids MN 56379, until 11:00 a.m. on Friday the 30th day of July, 2021, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud, for consideration by the City Council at their next regular meeting. Approximate quantities. Bituminous Material for Seal Coat (CRS-2) GALLONS 15,564.2 Install Bituminous Seal Coat FA-2 SY 62,256.8 All bids must be submitted on the Proposal Form provided in accordance with the Contract Documents as prepared. Copies of the Contract Documents can be obtained by sending a request to the City of Sauk Rapids, Public Works Department, 360 Summit Avenue North, Sauk Rapids, MN, 56379. No bids will be considered unless sealed and filed with the City Administrator of the City of Sauk Rapids, endorsed upon the outside wrapper and accompanied by a Bid Security in the amount of (5%) of the Bid to be forfeited as Liquidated Damages in the event that the Bid is accepted and the Bidder fails to promptly enter into a written Contract, provide documentation of the required insurance and/or the required Bond. Bidding documents for project are available by contacting public works at 320-258-5319. Direct inquiries to City of Sauk Rapids, Public Works Director, Pete Eckhoff 320-2585319. The City of Sauk Rapids reserves the right to reject any or all Bids, to waive informalities and to award the Bid in the best interest of the City. No Bids may be withdrawn for a period of forty-five (45) days. BY ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL Ross Olson, City Administrator City of Sauk Rapids, Minnesota Publish: Sauk Rapids Herald July 3rd and 10th, 2021 R-26-2B

PUBLIC NOTICES

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | Page 19

TOWN OF WATAB, MINNESOTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON INTENTION TO ISSUE GENERAL OBLIGATION STREET RECONSTRUCTION PLAN BONDS AND PROPOSAL TO ADOPT A STREET RECONSTRUCTION PLAN THEREFOR NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of Watab, Minnesota (the “Town”) will meet on Tuesday, July 13, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., at the Watab Town Hall, 660 75th Street Northwest in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota and by electronic means, in part to hold a public hearing concerning (1) the proposal to adopt a Street Reconstruction Plan pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section 475.58, Subdivision 3b; and (2) the proposed issuance of general obligation bonds (the “Bonds”). The Bonds will be in an amount not to exceed $3,500,000 and will be used for the reconstruction of certain streets in the Town. If a petition requesting a vote on the issuance of the Bonds, signed by voters equal to five percent of the votes cast in the Town in the last municipal general election, is

filed with the Town Clerk within 30 days after the public hearing (i.e., by August 12, 2021), the Town may issue the Bonds only after obtaining approval of a majority of voters voting on the question at an election. A copy of the plan is available for inspection in the Town Clerk’s Office, Town Hall, 660 75th Street Northwest, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota 56379. Questions or comments may be directed to the Town Chair, Julie Johnson at 320-248-5245. All interested persons may appear and be heard at the public hearing either orally or in writing or via electronic means as posted on the agenda on the Town’s website for such meeting or may file written comments with the Town Clerk before the hearing. Dated: June 8, 2021 BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF WATAB, MINNESOTA /s/ Kathy Sauer Town Clerk Town of Watab, Minnesota R-24-3B

BENTON COUNTY DITCH PUBLIC HEARING

alteration. However, the construction and installation of the new structure will not affect the functionality nor the hydraulic capacity of the ditch system. The hearing is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. on July 20, 2021, at the Benton County Boardroom located at the Benton County Government Center, at 531 Dewey Street, Foley, MN 56329. All interested parties may appear and be heard. Other items are on the agenda and the hearing may not start until after 9:00 am. If unable to participate, you may submit written testimony to County Ditch Public Hearing, PO Box 247 Foley, MN 56329. e City for failing to comply unless a written complaint is filed. R-25-3B

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, the Board of Commissioners of Benton County sitting as the road authority for Benton County Road No. 80 and sitting as the drainage authority for Benton County Ditch No. 11, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 163.17, shall hold a public hearing in consideration of a minor alteration to the public ditch system. Benton County has determined that old bridge L5806 is structurally deficient and needs to be replaced with a new structure. It is proposed to replace the old structure with precast concrete box culverts that are 16 feet wide and 5 feet tall. The excavation required to install the new structure is considered a minor

BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JUNE 15, 2021 The Benton County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on June 15, 2021 in the Benton County Board Room in Foley, MN with Commissioners Beth Schlangen, Scott Johnson, Ed Popp, Jared Gapinski and Steve Heinen present. Call to order by Chair Popp was at 9:00 AM followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. County Administrator Montgomery Headley requested to add Consent item # 9 to the agenda for an application of an Off Sale Liquor License for Midwest Investment LLC. d/b/a Mini Mart # 10 at 1490 110th St NW Rice, MN 56367. Headley also asked to add to the Regular agenda under County Administrator at 9:05 AM, to consider a Letter of Understanding with Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc., representing Deputy Sheriffs, Detectives and Court Security Officers to implement the 2021 Classification and Compensation Study results. Motion by Johnson and seconded by Heinen to approve the amended agenda. Motion carried unanimously. Present to speak under Open Forum: Pam Benoit of 2875 42nd Ave NE Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 had a couple of questions regarding the Auditor-Treasurer’s Office. Benoit stated that during a previous tax season, she had automatic payments set up from her bank account to pay for her property taxes. The check was made out to the previous Auditor-Treasurer, Karri Thorsten. Benoit stated that the check was then sent back to her bank and she was wondering why she did not receive a courtesy call regarding this. Then Benoit questioned our Auditor-Treasurer Nadean Inman’s permanent residence. Benoit asked if Inman needed to live within our jurisdiction to hold an elected position in Benton County. Benoit stated that she found Inman’s address to be in Becker, which is in Sherburne County. Popp clarified and stated when Inman was appointed, we had until January of that year to make her the permanent AuditorTreasurer. Inman did not need to reside within the County until she ran for re-election. Inman had 30 days prior to the election to establish residency in Benton County. The County Board was adamant that Inman became a resident of Benton County so there would be no issue once she was elected. Popp stated we have proof of Inman’s current residency in Sauk Rapids and prior to when she was elected. Heinen stated this is something we can look into further. Benoit stated she sent a letter to the State Auditor-Treasurer’s Office regarding this. Motion by Gapinski, seconded by Johnson to approve Consent Agenda items: 1) approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of June 1, 2021 as written; 2) approve the application for County Combination On-Sale, Off Sale & Sunday Liquor Licenses for Henry’s Catering and Molitor’s Quarry and authorize the Chair to sign; 3) approve the 3.2 Beer License for St. Elizabeth Church on June 27, 2021 and authorize the Chair to sign; 4) approve the application for exempt permit for Mid Minnesota Friends to conduct gambling at Jack & Jim’s Event Center, 11025 Duelm Rd NE Foley, MN 56329 on August 12, 2021 and authorize the Chair to sign; 5) approve S.C.O.R.E. City of Foley purchase money security agreements for eight (8) By the Yard Inc. 33 gallon trash receptacles, item No. TREC WW A and authorize the Chair to sign; 6) approve the Minor Final Plat entitled “Puchalla Estates” submitted by Ken Puchalla

and authorize the Chair to sign the final plat; 7) approve a revised contract with Allied Waste Services of North America, LLC, d/b/a Allied Waste Services of Sauk Rapids/Republic Services of Sauk Rapids for Amnesty Day Services for 20212024 and authorize the Chair to sign; 8) accept the donation from the Drug Awareness Resistance Education Fund of Central Minnesota Community Foundation and authorize the Chair to sign; 9) approve the application to renew County Off-Sale Liquor License for Midwest Investment LLC, d/b/a Mini Mart # 10 at 1490 110th St NW Rice, MN 56367 and authorize the Chair to sign. Motion carried unanimously. Next, Headley wanted to share resources on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and to begin discussion with the County Board on how Benton County might prioritize the use of these funds. Minnesota Management and Budget provided a high-level summary of allowable uses. The U.S. Treasury Department provided a “Q and A” document with substantially greater detail on allowable uses. Headley pointed out the key items that the ARPA funds can be used towards are infrastructure, wastewater, broadband, housing, replace lost revenue, and grants for businesses that suffered losses during the pandemic. Headley noted that we have until December 2024 to obligate the funds and will have until December 2026 to spend. Johnson is only interested in using the funds for “Special Projects” and not for future services. Heinen added that another County is only allocating half the funds now and will wait until they received the other half of their ARPA funds and will allocate then. Then, Headley discussed with the County Board initial terms of the St. Cloud Regional Airport Authority Members. The St. Cloud Regional Airport Advisory Board has asked member counties and the City of St. Cloud to determine the initial terms for Authority members. St. Cloud Airport Director Bill Towle has prepared a proposed schedule for those initial terms for the nine Authority members. Once initial terms are complete, Authority members can then serve a maximum of three, 3-year terms. Heinen added that this would not begin until January 1, 2022 and/ or once it’s approved. Consensus by the County Board to approve the initial terms of the St. Cloud Regional Airport Authority members. Then, Headley asked the County Board to consider a Letter of Understanding with Teamsters Local 320 representing Licensed Essential Supervisors to implement the 2021 Classification and Compensation Study. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Johnson to adopt the Letter of Understanding with Teamsters Local 320. Motion carried unanimously. Last, Headley asked the County Board to consider a Letter of Understanding with Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) Inc., representing Deputy Sheriffs, Detectives and Court Security Officers to implement the 2021 Classification and Compensation Study results. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Heinen to adopt a Letter of Understanding with LELS Inc. Motion carried unanimously. The Regular County Board Meeting was recessed at 9:30 AM to conduct a Human Services Board Meeting. The Regular Board meeting reconvened at 9:35 AM. Next, Public Works Director Chris Byrd discussed the 5-Year Road Construction Improvement Program (CIP).

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333

The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required for consumer protection in order to enable customers to be able to identify the true owner of a business. 1. List the exact assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted: Good Shepherd Supportive Services. 2. Principle Place of Business: 1115 4th Ave N; Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 3. List the complete name and complete address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name: Good Shepherd Lutheran Home of Sauk Rapids, Minnesota; 1115 4th Ave N; Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information is this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. Date: June 1, 2021 /s/Michael Stordahl President/CEO R-27-2B

The 5-Year Road CIP has been discussed on a recent tour of the county roads and at a recent Committee of the Whole meeting. The 5-Year Road CIP is a planning document that guides the Public Works/Highway Department on how to spend their resources. Byrd noted that not all projects listed in the 5-Year Road CIP are fully funded. There is about $2 million funding shortfall over 5 years. Having the projects in the plan helps us seek outside funding such as grants. Additionally, there is a list of unfunded projects that should be completed within the next 5 years, but these costs are much more than we could fund with current revenues. Byrd added that once this plan is adopted by the County Board, it will be published publicly on our County website. Motion by Johnson and seconded by Gapinski to approve the 5-Year Road CIP. Motion carried unanimously. Then, Byrd provided an update on the CR 55 Construction Project. Byrd had meetings with the City of Rice where he informed the City’s Attorneys that there is a statute reference that says public utilities, specifically water and sewer could be placed in highway easements. Byrd stated that we do have signatures and lots of verbal concurrences form landowners to start. Johnson asked about penalties we could accrue if the project is not done in time and Byrd stated that there would be a penalty of approximately $1,500.00 per day past the deadline. Byrd stated things are currently going well for the contractor and everything should get signed today. Byrd will keep the County Board informed on this project. Johnson asked Byrd for an update on the Co. Rd 4 Bridge. Byrd stated the bridge itself is complete, but they are waiting on the installation of the upgraded guard rails and dressings on the shoulder where it was paved. Next, Board members reported on Commissioner updates and recent meetings they attended on behalf of the County. There were no Commissioner Concerns to report at this time. Johnson/Heinen to set Committees of the Whole: Behavioral Health Crisis Center Groundbreaking Ceremony for Stearns County and CMMHC on June 24, 2021 at 10:00 AM at 1321 13th Street N St. Cloud, MN 56303; GSDC’s All Investor Meeting at Coborn’s Corporate Campus at 1921 Coborn Blvd St. Cloud, MN 56301 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Motion by Johnson and seconded by Heinen to approve Committee of the Whole Meetings. Motion carried unanimously. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Heinen to recess the Regular County Board meeting at 10:12 AM to conduct a closed meeting of the County Board under MN Statute §13D.05, Subdivision 3(c) to consider the purchase of real property. For the record, subject property to be discussed is Parcel # 01002100 and Parcel # 010021700, a combined 120-acre parcel also known as the Eisenschenk gravel pit. Regular County Board meeting was reconvened at 10:47 AM. Meeting adjourned at 10:48 AM.. Edward D. Popp, Chair Benton County Board of Commissioners ATTEST: Montgomery Headley Benton County Administrator R-27-1B

SPORTS

Page 20 | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

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Spring all-conference teams released 3 Storm baseball players named to first team BY TOM FENTON STAFF WRITER

For the first time since 2019, there was a spring high school sports season in Minnesota. Athletes had the opportunity to have a mostly normal season – one without masks for the majority of the season and with relatively full schedules. Unlike in the fall, the sports season also concluded with state tournaments. With the high school season ending June 19, post-season

awards were announced, including the All-Central Lakes Conference teams. The season was highlighted by the Sauk Rapids-Rice baseball team winning the Section 5AAA title and advancing to the state tournament and by Justus Floren’s third-place finish in the long jump in the Minnesota State High School League Class AAA State Track and Field Meet. Representing Sauk RapidsRice High School are: Baseball: Terrence Moody, Landon Lunser and Noah Jensen received all-conference acknowledgement. Jeff Solorz and Alex Harren were named honorable mention. Softball: Anna Schave and Brooke Petermeier received all-

conference acknowledgement. Catie Gilbertson, Denise Schultz, Corina Miller and Libbey Mayse were named honorable mention. Boys track and field: Carter Loesch, who participates in the 110-meter hurdles and 300 hurdles, received all-conference acknowledgement. Cole Gauerke (400), Jared Bentrud (800), Tayton Philavanh and Austin Horn (long jump) and Ethan Opsahl (high jump) were named honorable mention. Girls track and field: Floren, who participates in the long jump and high jump, received allconference acknowledgement. Delia Gustofson (100 hurdles), Hailee Cullen (discus) and Brooke Mushatt (discus) were named honorable mention.

Rookies leading the way for Minnesota teams The past year has largely been forgettable for fans of mens professional sports in Minnesota. However, the debut of extremely promising rookies has given fans of the Vikings, Wolves, Wild and Twins legitimate hope for the future. On the heels of a strong 10-6 season where they earned an impressive road victory in New Orleans in the playoffs, the Vikings stumbled to a disappointing 7-9 record last season largely due to the collapse of their defense. However, first-year wideout Justin Personalize Jefferson setyour anride! all-time rookie record with 1,400 receiving yards while also leading all rookies in receptions. Jefferson was selected with the 22nd overall pick in the 2020 draft, which was acquired in a trade with Buffalo for veteran receiver Stefon Diggs. Jefferson’s immediate elite production helped fans stomach the loss of one of the team’s premiere offensive weapons and gives the team a cost-controlled Pro Bowl caliber player at a big money position moving forward. With the first overall pick in the 2020 draft, the Timberwolves selected

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19-year-old Anthony Edwards from the University of Georgia. Edwards struggled to find his groove early in the season, but he came on like a freight train in the second half of the season, winning the Western Conference Rookie of the Month award for the final three months of the season. He led all rookies in scoring with 19.3 points per game and quickly established himself as a leader for a rudderless team that was in dire need of a strong presence. The sky is the limit for Edwards, whose dynamic athleticism and shot-creating ability should make him one of the league’s top scorers for years to come. The Wild have been a slightly above average team for years now, but with aging veterans on long contracts, their future outlook was becoming increasingly bleak. That all changed with the arrival of 24-year-old rookie Kirill Kaprizov, who led both his team and all NHL rookies in points (51) and goals (27) en route to winning the Calder trophy for the NHL’s top rookie player. With Kaprizov in the fold, the Wild surged to a 35-16-5 record (third in the West)

SPORTS COLUMNIST BY ANDY THAYER

and took the favored Las Vegas Golden Knights to a pivotal game seven in their first round series. Expectations will rightfully be high for the Wild next year with Kaprizov hopefully leading the team deeper into the playoffs. The Twins have utterly collapsed in what might be the most unexpected gut punch of a season that I can remember for a team which has consistently worked the bodies of its fans like Mike Tyson in his prime. That said, there are two bright lights in this otherwise dark morass of a Twins roster. Rookie outfielders Alex Kirilloff and Trevor Larnach have had successful debuts and established themselves as heart-of-the-order mainstays for this team for years to come. The free-swinging Kirilloff is slashing .265/.307/.444

with 11 doubles, seven homers, 11 walks and only 47 strikeouts in 189 at-bats (that strikeout rate is pretty good nowadays). The patient and powerful Larnach is slashing .262/.361/.445 with nine doubles, seven homers, 20 walks and 57 strikeouts in his 164 plate appearances. They rank third and fourth among Twins hitters with at least 150 at-bats in on-base plus slugging and are continuing to improve as they adjust to the buffet of offspeed pitches they are consistently seeing from major league pitchers. While the teamwide performances for the Vikings, Wolves and Twins in their most recent seasons have been embarrassing, and the Wild still could not get out of the first round of the playoffs, all four of these teams have improved their longterm outlooks by adding dynamic rookies in the past year. With Jefferson, Edwards, Kaprizov, Kirilloff and Larnach in the mix, the Minnesota mens professional sports scene is going to be exciting for years to come.

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | Page 21

DNR invites comment on proposed sunfish regulations ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages the public to weigh in on proposed special fishing regulations that would allow anglers to keep fewer sunfish from 50 lakes. The proposed regulations are part of the ongoing Quality Sunfish Initiative. “These new regulations would continue our response to angler concerns about the declining sizes of some of our state’s most prized and frequently caught fish,” said Dave Weitzel, Grand Rapids area fisheries supervisor. “We’re aiming to protect and improve sunfish sizes on select lakes with the biological potential to produce large sunfish.” The proposed lower bag limits on 50 lakes would go into effect in March 2022. Under the proposal, sunfish daily bag limits would be reduced from the statewide limit of 20 sunfish to five sunfish on some lakes and 10 sunfish on others. Some lakes also have similar proposals for lower crappie daily bag limits. Comments on the proposed regulation changes may be

submitted through an online survey that is open through Oct. 31, by contacting an area fisheries office or by attending an in-person meeting this fall. Details about the meetings will be publicized later this summer. More information about comment options, including a link to the survey, is available at www.dnr.state.mn.us/fish/sunfish/ index.html. Through the Quality Sunfish Initiative, nearly 100 lakes received bag limit reductions in March 2021. In total, the DNR plans to increase the number of lakes with reduced bag limits to approximately 210 by 2023, up from 60 before the initiative began. Carnelian and Pleasant lakes in Stearns County are proposed for a bag limit reduction of sunfish in March 2022, and Cedar Lake in Morrison County could see a bag limit reduction for both crappie and sunfish. Although anglers have told the DNR they are satisfied with sunfish numbers, they have voiced increasing concerns about sunfish size quality. They also have voiced concern about the added pressure

on fisheries as a result of electronic fish finders and other technological advancements, including rapid social media communication between anglers when fish are biting. “Sunfish grow only about an inch per year, so a large sunfish can be more than a decade old,” Weitzel said. “It’s critical to protect these large fish from excessive harvest because they aren’t easily replaced.” In addition to the 50 lakes where the DNR is proposing new sunfish and crappie regulations, the DNR also is proposing minor changes to 63 lakes that already have reduced possession limits. Under these changes, the reduced possession limit will change to a reduced daily limit, which will allow an angler to take a daily limit from a lake multiple days in a row until reaching their statewide possession limit (20 sunfish, 10 crappie). The change will create consistency with the newly implemented Quality Sunfish Initiative regulations and is not projected to have additional biological impacts. Minnesota fishing regulations use sunfish as the generic name for bluegill, pumpkinseed, green sunfish, orange-spotted sunfish, longear, warmouth and their hybrids.

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SPORTS

Foley halts Sauk Rapids’

hot streak Busy week ahead as post-season approaches BY TOM FENTON | STAFF WRITER

The Sauk Rapids American Legion Post 254 baseball team found out first-hand what those who closely follow the game in the area already know – Foley’s Ryan Chmielewski knows how to pitch. The All-State selection for the Foley High School team, which went 22-0 during the regular season, mowed down Sauk Rapids, as he gave up two hits over six innings in a 10-1 victory July 7 in Foley. The loss dropped Post 254 to 6-3 on the season as the substate playoffs approach. Foley, which has won seven straight games after a season-opening loss at Little Falls, scored three times in the first inning off Landon Lunser – who has been stellar on the mound going back to the high school season – and added five more in the fifth inning to put the game out of reach. Foley finished with 16 hits.

Alex Harren and Brandon Bokelman each had hits for Sauk Rapids. Chmielewski also was a force at the plate, going 3 for 4 to lead Foley, which had three hits and two RBIs from Colby Johnson. The loss was a bump in the road for Post 254 in what has been a season that has seen young players rise to the occasion and veterans from the state tournament high school team continuing to play well. The roster, however, has been depleted as Ben Rothstein and Connor Hemker are out for the season with injuries. “I’m absolutely happy with how things have gone,” said Paul Wippler, Post 254 h e a d coach.

PHOTOS BY TOM FENTON

Post 254 second baseman Andrew Wollak gets in position to catch a pop fly while Landon Lunser backs him up July 5 at Bob Cross Field in Sauk Rapids. The Sauk Rapids American Legion Post 254 team swung hot bats in the 9-4 victory over the St. Cloud Chutes.

“The pitching has been phenomenal, but losing Ben and Connor hurts. Brandon has filled in very well at third base and hopefully he can keep that

Left fielder Keegan Patterson prepares to throw the ball back to the infield after making a catch during the Sauk Rapids American Legion Post 254 baseball team’s 9-4 victory over the St. Cloud Chutes July 5 at Bob Cross Field in Sauk Rapids. Post 254 had a strong pitching performance from starter Andrew Harren in the victory.

going.” Sauk Rapids had a strong starting pitching effort from Andrew Harren in a 9-4 win over the St. Cloud Chutes July 5 at Bob Cross Field. Harren threw 5 1/3 innings, giving up six hits and striking out four while overcoming a slow start to get the win. First baseman Noah Jensen and catcher Jeff Solorz led the offense. Jensen belted a solo home run and also drove in another, while Solorz was 2 for 3 with two RBIs. Andrew Wollaston, Andrew Harren, Dane Dingmann and Bokelman each drove in a run. Jensen contributed

with his arm in a 6-1 win over the St. Cloud 76ers July 1 at Bob Cross Field. Jensen gave up four hits while striking out eight and walking two to get the victory. Mathies was 3 for 3 with two RBIs, and Matt Krepp was 2 for 3 with two RBIs. Bokelman drove in a run and also struck out the side in pitching the final inning. The final week of the regular season will be crucial for Sauk Rapids for the sub-state tournament. Post 254 had a home matchup against Cold Spring July 8 in Sauk Rapids. They will play at home against Monticello Monday, July 12, travel

to Dick Putz Field in St. Cloud Tuesday, July 13, and close out the regular season Thursday, July 15, in Sartell. The sub-state tournament will be played at Dick Putz and Joe Faber fields in St. Cloud, starting July 18. “We’re just trying to keep things going steady and keep doing what we’ve been doing,” Wippler said. “Dom has really taken off as a hitter and has been solid since moving to shortstop. Noah has his bat back on track and Andrew Harren continues to do really well.”

Sauk Rapids American Legion Post 254 catcher Jeff Solorz gets in position to block a pitch in the dirt during the team’s victory over the St. Cloud Chutes July 5 at Bob Cross Field in Sauk Rapids. Solorz led the Sauk Rapids offense, going 2 for 3 with two RBIs.

SPORTS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | Page 23

Labor of love

Duties of a golf course superintendent seemingly never end BY TOM FENTON STAFF WRITER

Brian Timmer

PHOTO BY TOM FENTON

Ron Potts mows the rough near the 14th green July 7 at Oakhill Golf Course in rural Rice. Potts has been on the grounds crew for seven years at Oakhill, where his main duty is mowing the rough.

golf course.” not be as effective this Timmer manages. He grass. Bent grass, which Part of the job season. The same is true keeps a soil probe close is common on courses in Timmer enjoys most is with fertilizers. to his side at all times cold climates on fairways, the constant change. A Though the conditions and simply uses his eyes greens and tee boxes, watering technique that consistently change, what daily to see what might can be fickle and can die worked a year ago may stays the same is how need extra attention or to quickly – especially in spot areas that might turn extreme heat. problematic. Part of the daily Observing, he said, is routine includes the most enjoyable part of fertilizing, spraying for the job. weeds and bugs, watering “My morning round greens and fairways, when I drive the course maintaining a fleet of at 5 a.m. is the best part mowing equipment and of this,” Timmer said. “I cutting grass at several check all the greens and lengths. Greens are fairways, and the rest of mowed daily at 1/8-inch the guys show up at 6. I’m of length to ensure a quick not getting bothered. I’m and true roll off the putter. watching the irrigation run Fairways, tee boxes, and seeing deer run across green collars and aprons fairways. That first hour are mowed three times a of my day is awesome.” week and the rough twice Occasionally, Mother per week. Nature will deal a blow “Brian has been that sends a maintenance dynamite for us,” said Jim staff into a frenzy. Dahl, who owns Oakhill and also Eagles Landing Timmer page 24 in Fort Ripley. “He’s just so sharp and has great Jeremy Joule finishes his daily duty of mowing greens July 7 at Oakhill Golf Course in attention to detail. He does rural Rice. Houle is in his fifth year on the maintenance staff. all the small things so well and just sees things that a lot of other guys don’t. Everything he wants to do gets done.” Timmer is in his 14th year on the Oakhill maintenance staff. Dahl co-owned Oakhill before join our team. Cutting Edge equipment, excellent hours. buying out the previous owners in 2016. Dahl was not even a day into being the Great Compensation PKG. sole owner when the superintendent quit on the Health, Dental, Vision, Life, spot. That opened the door for Timmer, who made up 401K, Proﬁt Sharing, for what he did not have in Lodging & Per Diem Pay schooling with on-the-job experience. Included. “It was a crazy deal how that happened,” Dahl said. “It just so happened Brian got put in charge very quickly.” The transition went P.O. Box 129 smoothly thanks mostly Rice, MN 56367 to the tutelage of Phil Poepping, who has worked for Dahl for more than 20 years and spends his or email days at Eagles Landing. Poepping took Timmer kevin@ferchecompanies.com under his wings and the

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Brian Timmer is not much different than most golf course superintendents. He takes extreme pride in his work, is meticulous in making his golf course look its best and knows working 70-80 hours during the season is, well, par for the course. There is one thing, however, that sets Timmer apart from most in his profession. He did not grow up dreaming of becoming a golf course superintendent nor did he go to college for turf management to learn the seemingly endless intricacies involved in maintaining a golf course. Instead, he is the perfect example of learning on the job. “I learned everything I know on the fly,” said Timmer, who is in his fifth year overseeing the maintenance of Oakhill Golf Course in Rice, which has been a popular golf destination in central Minnesota since it opened in 1989. “I started here when I was 18 and just looking for a summer gig, and I fell in love with it. The rest is history.” Timmer oversees a staff of six full-time and three part-time maintenance workers, who have worked together to keep the scenic layout located a pitching wedge from Highway 10 in top condition. With a run of 90-degree days and little rain, this season is proving challenging. “This year has been unlike any other with the heat stress,” said Timmer, a 2007 Sauk Rapids-Rice High School graduate. “We’ve aerated our greens twice this year already to get air to make sure the water and nutrients get down to the roots. There’s been a lot of spot watering and a lot of tinkering with different products and constant observation of what is working and what isn’t.” The art of maintaining hundreds of acres of golf course terrain is far more than watering and cutting

course has not missed a beat. Fairways and tee boxes have remained lush despite the hot weather, and the tee sheet is almost constantly full. “I knew a lot already about the job, but I give Phil a lot of credit,” Timmer said. “He walked me through just about everything the first couple years. It was a pretty easy transition because he already knew the course, and there is so much science into maintaining a

SPORTS

Page 24 | SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Timmer

from page 23 October 20, 2020, qualifies as one of those days. About 6 inches of snow blanketed central Minnesota, and Timmer and his staff had not yet winterized the greens. Many course superintendents apply a chemical to help prevent snow mold on their greens, but the snow caught Timmer off guard. A winter with no snow mold-preventing chemicals applied is potential disaster. Fearing the snow would not melt,

Timmer gathered a staff of 12 along with four snowblowers to clear the greens. Despite minor damage from the blower blades, the crisis was averted – and the course even re-opened a week later thanks to a welcomed warm spell. “We were scheduled to be blowing out the irrigation system that day, and you have to book the compressor weeks in advance,” Timmer said. “Instead, we got the snow. We were driving around in pickups to get to all the irrigation controllers because carts couldn’t get through the snow. I didn’t think it was going to melt off. I hope I never have to

do that again.” Timmer gets a chance to actually enjoy the work he and his staff do on Thursday afternoons when he cuts out of work early to enjoy a mens league round with his father, Wendell. Even while playing, his work never ends. “I love playing because it seems like you see the course better, and I can see stuff that needs to be done,” Timmer said. “When I’m working, a lot of times I’m in a hurry. But when I’m golfing, I can sit back and see what everybody else is seeing and that’s fun. I couldn’t do any of this without all the great help.”

PHOTO BY TOM FENTON

(Above) Oakhill Golf Course in rural Rice is owned by Jim Dahl, who also owns Eagles Landing Golf Course in Fort Ripley. The course has been a popular golf destination in central Minnesota since it opened in 1989.

(Right) Oakhill Golf Course superintendent Brian Timmer cuts new cups July 7 on the practice green at the 18-hole rural Rice course. Timmer is in his fifth year overseeing the maintenance of the course, which opened in 1989.

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