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Halt on You can be evictions Benton County calls is ending for open class
Vol. 167, No. 15
featured at the fair
participants Apply for BY NATASHA BARBER assistance by STAFF WRITER mid-October SAUK RAPIDS – to extend stay Nearly 170 years since the BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER
Since March 2020, landlords have not been able to evict tenants for nonpayment, but new legislation will once again make it legal to remove tenants if they cannot pay rent. Gov. Tim Walz’s 15-month ban on landlords removing tenants for failing to pay rent – spurred by the coronavirus pandemic – is ending. A bill signed into law June 29 gradually phases out the eviction moratorium by June 2022. That phase-out comes sooner for those renters who do not make efforts to secure assistance. As the state’s emergency response to COVID-19 wind down, the legislation aims to protect tenants and landlords alike. Its phased approach is intended to ensure renters have enough time to access federallyfunded rental assistance to pay landlords, or to plan for an orderly transition to another home.
Evictions page 3
Benton County Agricultural Society established an event to showcase the year’s harvest and educate people about agriculture, those goals ring true at the Benton County Fair. Although the fair was not established until 1913, the idea of an open class exhibit – where people brought their best produce and grains – became a reality roughly 60 years earlier. Today, that exhibit includes much more than shiny red tomatoes and the tallest corn stalks. Needlework, baked goods and even home brewed beer or drone photos can be entered into the annual com-
PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER
A fairy garden is featured at the 2019 Benton County Fair in Sauk Rapids. Open class exhibits feature livestock, agricultural products and crafts and can be submitted by anyone who registers.
petition. The ag society is gearing up to feature its open class livestock, agricultural and craft exhibitors at the Benton County Fair Aug. 3-8. And, anyone can apply. No matter age or county of residence, people may participate in showcasing at the Benton
County Fair. “We are right between Stearns, Sherburne and Benton (counties) and Morrison isn’t that far away, so we’d rather have more exhibits than limit it to the residents of Benton County,” Laura Falconer said. Falconer is the executive secretary for the Ben-
ton County Agricultural Society. A longtime veteran of the organization, having served 25 years, she encourages people to consider entering open class items into the fair, especially after a year of canceled events due to the coronavirus pandemic. “We’re trying to get younger people involved,”
she said. “This past year with kids not being in school a lot, there may be school projects that they did that they can certainly bring to the fair to display.” Falconer mentioned projects such as artwork and woodworking as examples. This year’s premium book, where people can obtain category and registration information and rules, can be found online at www.bentonfairmn. com. The decision to refrain from printing this year’s book was made due to the uncertainly created by the pandemic. The society prefers entries are registered by July 26 as each exhibit must be logged into a computer software system which provides an entry and claim ticket prior to judging. Registrations can be mailed, emailed or dropped off at the fair office.
Open class page 5
Auxiliary accepts $5,000 donation PHOTO SUBMITTED
Cheryl Scapanski (third, from right) presents Rice American Legion Auxiliary Unit 473 members – Mary Kivi (from left), Janice Martin, Pat Popp, Tammy Killman, Pat Fuchs, Cora Martin and Maryanne Keeney – with a $5,000 check to be used toward The Wall That Heals July 12 in Rice. The auxiliary has organized for The Wall That Heals, which is a replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., to be featured in Rice Aug. 19-22.
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2 Second Ave. S., Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379
Obituaries • Roger A. Kuklok • Maxine L. Olson • Alma C. Yamry
Public Notices • Assumed Name - Good Shepherd Supportive Services - pg. 8 • City of Sauk Rapids Reg. Minutes, June 28, 2021 - pg. 8
NEWS
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 17, 2021 | Page 3
What’s Happening
Kampa recognized for 25 years of service PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER
Karl Kampa (third, from left), a full-time employee at the Sauk Rapids Municipal Liquor Store, is recognized by Sauk Rapids city administrator Ross Olson (from left), council members Jason Ellering, Ellen Thronson and Dottie Seamans, and Mayor Kurt Hunstiger at the Sauk Rapids City Council meeting July 12 in Sauk Rapids. Kampa has worked for the city for 25 years.
Evictions from front The new state law requires landlords who intend to file an eviction for non-payment of rent first provide written notice along with information about rental assistance. Tenants cannot be evicted while their application for rental assistance is pending. The emergency rental assistance is courtesy of a statewide program dispensing federal funds to help renters and landlords affected by the pandemic. Minnesota has received $672 million for rental assistance. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency is administering $519 million of that funding, which was received as a result of two congressional appropriations. “This is a great gift that the federal government has given us,” said Jennifer Ho, Minnesota Housing Commissioner, at a June 30 news conference. “That is your protection against being evicted.” Minnesota has more than 600,000 renting households, according to Ho. She estimates the statewide program could help 50,000 renters. “It’s a win-win,” Ho said. Ho expects applications will continue to roll in as more renters are made aware of the emergency assistance. She asserted confidence that the federal government has provided adequate funding to help thousands of Minnesota tenants behind on their rent. “We have more money than applications,” Ho said. Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan said the legislation is a safe way to end the eviction moratorium. “This off-ramp gives renters who have fallen behind time to get caught up and property owners time to be paid,” Flanagan said. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency has been accepting applications since April. As of late June,
The process
Monday, July 19, 6:30 p.m. – Sauk Rapids-Rice School Board Meeting. Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, 1835 Osauka Road N.E., Sauk Rapids. Tuesday, July 20, 9 a.m. – Benton County Board of Commissioners Meeting. Benton County Administration Building, 531 Dewey St., Foley.
Tuesday, July 20, 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.
The timeline
Tuesday, July 20, 6:30 p.m. – Little Rock Lake Association Monthly Meeting. Watab Town Hall, 660 75th St. N.W., Sauk Rapids. Tuesday, July 20, 7 p.m. – Free Grace Recovery Meeting. Hosted by Free Grace United. All are welcome; everyone struggles with something. The ROC, 141 Fourth Ave. N., Foley. Thursday, July 22, 5:30-9:30 p.m. – Rock the Riverside Music Nights. Featuring Tony Williams and Shane Martins. Southside Park, 103 River Ave. S., Sauk Rapids. Thursday, July 22, 6-7:30 p.m. – Police Activities League. For children ages 5-15. Participate in nocost activities with members of law enforcement who are not in uniform. Westside Park Lion’s Building, 101 Fourth Ave. N.W., Rice.
Although applying for emergency rental assistance can protect tenants from eviction for nonpayment now while they are waiting for their application to be processed, that protection will not last forever. The protection is set to last until June 1, 2022, but only for tenants who have pending applications.
Sauk Rapids
Monday, July 19, 6 p.m. – Rice City Council Meeting. Rice City Hall, 205 E. Main St., Rice.
Tuesday, July 20, 4-6 p.m. – Rice Area Farmers Market. Sponsored by the Rice Area Women of Today. At the corner of Division Street North and East Main Street, Rice.
Currently: Landlords must give their tenants a 15-day notice before filing an eviction for nonpayment. This gives tenants time to apply for emergency rental assistance and protect them from eviction while the application is pending. This protection expires Oct. 12. Landlords can terminate or refuse to renew a lease if tenants seriously endanger the safety of others; significantly damage property; or engage in other illegal activity such as drug use. As of July 14, a landlord can file for eviction or terminate a lease if a renter has materially breached their lease. This may be for reasons such as being too noisy or not being a good neighbor, prompting other tenants to want to leave, but it depends on what an individual lease says and the circumstances being alleged as violations. Starting Aug. 13: A landlord can terminate or not renew a lease if their tenant owes rent and does not qualify for the COVID-19 emergency rental assistance program. Starting Sept. 12: A landlord can file for eviction if their tenant has not paid their rent and is ineligible for emergency rental assistance. Starting Oct. 12: A landlord can end a lease for any legal reason, unless the tenant is eligible for emergency rental assistance and has a pending application. Starting June 1, 2022: All lease termination and eviction protections related to the coronavirus pandemic are lifted. legislators came together to make sure property owners are recovering payments. “The good news is there is help available,” Flanagan said. Ho encouraged tenants who are behind on their rent to immediately apply for emergency rental assistance at www.renthelpmn. org or call 211.
Monday, July 19, 1-7 p.m. – American Red Cross Blood Donation Drive. St. Francis Xavier, 308 Second St. N., Sartell. Schedule an appointment at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-733-2767.
Tuesday, July 20, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Lutheran Church Food Shelf Distribution. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.
The state’s eviction moratorium, which suspended evictions and landlord-initiated lease terminations, began in March 2020. A new law, enacted June 29, creates a timeline for allowing different types of lease terminations and evictions. The law also creates some protections against certain types of evictions and requires advance notice of evictions for nonpayment of rent. (Note: There is a difference between terminating a lease and eviction. An eviction is a court case filed by the landlord, through which the tenant receives paperwork specifying a court case number and court date and time. A notice of termination or non-renewal does not involve the courts; it is simply a message instructing a tenant to leave by a certain date.)
nearly 28,000 requests for aid had been received; the agency had paid just 7.3% of the amount requested. When questioned about the slow payments, Ho said it takes time to sift through the volume of applications and to make sure the money gets to the right place. The steps, she said, involve “a lot of back and forth” between renters, landlords, her agency and the federal government. Ho asked for patience as the funds are disbursed. She said the agency must review applications with deliberate care to verify eligibility and ensure they are legitimate so as to avoid fraud. Flanagan said the ban on evictions made sure people had a stable place to stay during the pandemic, when Minnesotans were told to stay home to slow the spread of COVID-19. She estimated the eviction moratorium saved more than 2,000 lives. The legislation is about supporting landlords as well, Flanagan said. Knowing property owners are struggling to pay their bills because their tenants cannot pay the rent, bi-partisan
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.
Thursday, July 22, 3-6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids Market. Coborn’s parking lot, 110 First St. S., Sauk Rapids. Friday, July 23, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Lutheran Church Food Shelf Distribution. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids. Saturday, July 24, 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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Page 4 | SATURDAY, JULY 17, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
Public health conducting survey Electronic format parallels mailed version
FOLEY – Benton County Public Health is seeking cooperation in assessing the health of the community. The 2021 Central Minnesota Community Health Survey is a collaborative project between public health agencies of Benton, Sherburne and Stearns counties and CentraCare. The goal is to gather information that will create an accurate picture of health and wellness across central Minnesota. For the first time, the survey is being offered in an electronic format at www.co.benton.mn.us/673/2021-central-minnesotacommunity-health, which can be completed on a computer, smart phone or tablet. The survey is available in three languages: English, Spanish and Somali. This electronic format is a parallel project with a mailed survey that was delivered to over 7,000 households across the sample area; the electronic and mailed surveys have the same questions. Adults ages 18 and older who are living, working or volunteering in Benton, Sherburne or Stearns counties are encouraged to complete the survey. Answers provide vital information to public health departments, area hospitals and others who will use the data to identify and prioritize community health needs and areas of concern, and then develop strategies and action plans to address those needs and create healthier communities. Questions cover many topics including access to health care, nutrition, physical activity, financial stress and other social, physical and mental healthrelated concerns. Responses remain anonymous, and people will not be contacted for additional information or feedback. Results and data from this survey will be available in fall 2021. Questions or concerns about the survey may be directed to Peggy Sammons at 320-656-6017, 1-800-450-3663 or peggy.sammons@co.stearns.mn.us.
NEWS
G&J Awning to expand, relocate HRA offers assistance to keep business in Sauk Rapids BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER
SAUK RAPIDS – A 44-year-old Sauk Rapids business is about to expand. G&J Awning will be relocating to a 3.5 acre site in a Sauk Rapids industrial park thanks to help from the city’s housing and redevelopment authority and council. The Sauk Rapids City Council and HRA approved plans and financing relief for the move July 12 and July 13, respectively. The awning and canvas
company, which was started in 1977 by Gary and Janice Buermann, has overgrown its operations at 1260 10th St. N., Sauk Rapids. The business is looking to continue its growth, and owner Beth Brenny said the company has been planning and saving for expansion since 2013. “It’s nerve-wracking to make the move, but it’s exciting to hopefully close a chapter,” said Brenny, who became part owner eight years ago. “We are just outgrowing our building, so we need to move. We’ve been saving for eight years on this project, so to have it come to light is pretty exciting.” The HRA is selling the land to G&J Awning for $1 and providing tax increment financing with a value of $220,103 over the course of eight years, beginning semi-annual payments of
$16,865.52 in August 2024. In order to offer such assistance, the Sauk Rapids City Council created a TIF district specific to the property at hand. G&J Awning plans to construct a 24,000 square foot building that includes up to 3,500 square feet in office space on the property. The endeavor is a $2.5 million investment for G&J Awning. “Thank you for keeping your business here in town and supporting us,” said Mayor Kurt Hunstiger. “That’s important to us; we don’t like to lose businesses. I don’t care if they’re one employee or 200 employees; they are all important, and we’re glad you’re here. I can’t wait for the grand opening.”
G&J page 5
Crime & Public Safety
Sartell man fighting for his life after Highway 15 crash
Task force seizes drugs, places one under arrest
ST. CLOUD – A Sartell man was seriously injured July 12 when a driver ran a red light at the intersection of Highway 15 and County Road 29. The incident happened shortly after 10 p.m. According to a report from the Minnesota State Patrol, Mark George Meredith, 42, of South Haven, was driving northbound on Highway 15 when he ran a red light at County Road 29. Meredith’s RV struck a westbound car driven by Adam Kent Pederson, 35, of Sartell. Kent was transported to the St. Cloud Hospital for life threatening injuries. Meredith and his adult passenger, 39-year-old Angela Ruth Meredith of South Haven, as well as seven minor children in the RV were uninjured. The Sauk Rapids fire and police departments, Benton County Sheriff’s Office and Mayo Clinic Ambulance assisted the state patrol at the scene.
ST. CLOUD – A search of a St. Cloud apartment July 8 uncovered significant amounts of drugs. According to Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force Commander Jay Salzer, investigators located amounts of marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine and liquid, edibles, powder and wax containing tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. The search, which was one of many searches in the area relating to sales and distribution of controlled substances, was conducted on the 1300 block of 15th Street North, St. Cloud. Investigators also found three semi-automatic hand guns, one of which had been reported stolen. At the time of the search, apartment residents were not home. Leading up to the search, investigators learned Tyler Neil Pelzer, 31, of St. Cloud, was suspected of distributing cocaine throughout the St. Cloud area and conducted several undercover buys of the drug from Pelzer. On July 8, Pelzer was observed driving on Interstate 94 near Avon, and task force investigators worked with the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office to conduct a traffic stop. Pelzer was placed under arrest and transported to the Stearns County Jail. He was booked and released, and charges of first-degree sales of controlled substance are pending as the task force continues its investigation. Salzer said more arrests are expected. The task force, which is comprised of investigators from the St. Cloud and Sartell police departments and deputies from sheriff’s offices in Stearns, Benton, Sherburne, Todd and Morrison counties, was assisted by
Body found ruled suicide ST. CLOUD – The cause of death of a body found in Brockway Township has been ruled a suicide. The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office released the update July 15. According to a release, the body was transported to the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office in Anoka July 12 after a jogger found the body at approximatley 3:45 p.m. near the intersection of County Road 5 and 65th Avenue in the rural Rice zip code portion of the township.
2 Second Ave. S., Suite 135 Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 (320) 251-1971 Sauk Rapids Herald (USPS 21690) is published weekly, 52 times a year, by Star Publications, 2 2nd Ave S., Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379-1651. Second-class Postage paid at Sauk Rapids, MN 56379. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Sauk Rapids Herald, 2 2nd Ave S, Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379-1651.
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members of the St. Cloud Police Department and Stearns County Sheriff’s Office.
Sauk Rapids woman charged in stabbing
FOLEY – A Sauk Rapids woman was arrested for allegedly stabbing a household member July 5. Mey Gail McClinton-Vaughn, 39, of Sauk Rapids, is charged with felony second-degree assault. She faces seven years imprisonment and a $14,000 fine. According to the criminal complaint filed in Benton County District Court, shortly after 9 a.m. July 5, authorities responded to the report of a stabbing at an address on the 200 block of Fourth Avenue South. A male was found in the backyard with a stab wound to his chest; McClinton-Vaughn was nearby, stating she was sorry. McClinton-Vaughn told officers that her and the male victim had been arguing prior to her stabbing the male with a paring knife. A juvenile witness said the two were arguing about relationship issues Mey Gail McClinton-Vaughn and told officers earlier in the altercation McClinton-Vaughn had a larger kitchen knife, which was later found on the bedroom floor. The male was transported to the St. Cloud Hospital where it was determined the knife wound did not go beyond the chest muscle. McClinton-Vaughn was issued a domestic abuse no contact order and is scheduled to appear in court for an omnibus hearing at 1 p.m. July 23.
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OPINION
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 17, 2021 | Page 7
The realities of sexual assault Sexual assault is a challenging topic to cially important when we discuss child vicbring up in polite conversation. This crime tims. The best defense a child has against is deeply personal and traumatizing for the becoming the victim of sexual assault is an people victimized. Yet, this is a crime that involved parent with a healthy amount of could affect anyone and does affect thouskepticism. Sexual exploitation of minors sands of Minnesotans each year. is generally a gradual process perpetrated A sexual assault happens every 68 secon children over time. Parents who know onds in the United States. It’s important to the people interacting with their children, remember that the numbers we read are real both in person and online, are better able people; our family members, friends and KEEPING BENTON to detect and prevent the early efforts of community members. They are the reason perpetrators seeking to groom and abuse COUNTY SAFE why everyone should be concerned about them. When adults are victims of sexual SHERIFF TROY HECK sexual assault and join in efforts aimed at assault, a violation of trust is most often curbing this crime. the perpetrator’s primary tool. Being cautious about the When asked about sexual assault, most people pic- people in whom you place enhanced levels of trust may ture a stranger accosting his victim in a dark secluded serve to keep you clear of those who would abuse that place, or maybe their thoughts flow to warnings circulat- trust and perpetrate sexual assault. Being alert for and ing in social media on the dangers of zip-tied windshield avoiding situations that force you to place more trust in wipers. In reality, survivors tell a different story. a person than you normally would will serve you well. The overwhelming majority of sexual assault vic- Theising encourages people to trust their feelings about tims had some kind of pre-existing relationship with others, especially if you feel you are being pressured into their abuser. According to Briana Theising, director of unwanted situations or sexual activity. Theising recomclient services at the Central Minnesota Sexual Assault mends people pay attention to behaviors that raise alarm. Center in St. Cloud, roughly 90% of victims they help Theising said these behaviors might include someone knew their perpetrator prior to their assault. Theising sitting or standing too close or who seems to enjoy your said sexual violence can and does happen in all commu- discomfort; a person who stares excessively or blocks nities. According to Theising, “1 out of every 6 Ameri- your way; or someone who, in their words or actions, is can women has been the victim of an attempted or com- inappropriately intimate with you. pleted rape in her lifetime and about 3% of American When asked if there are things everyone can do to men have experienced an attempted or completed rape reduce the prevalence of sexual assault, Theising said, in their lifetime.” “Challenge rape culture. Sometimes our silence about The responsibility for sex assault crimes always lies inappropriate comments or jokes can perpetuate atwith the perpetrator who chooses to break the law. Like titudes that allows sexual violence to happen. Educate all crime, there is no way to completely eliminate the yourself so you are aware of the facts rather than the possibility of becoming a victim, and discussing ways misperceptions. Don’t buy sex or utilize pornography. in which people may minimize their risk of victimiza- Obsessive use of pornography has normalized sexually tion does not mean those who fail to heed such advice violent acts. Practice bystander intervention.” have contributed to their victimization. There are no exThe CMSAC has more resources available for ceptions to the requirement in Minnesota law of freely people who have been victims of sexual assault or those given and coherent consent prior to engaging in sexual looking to become more involved or educated on comconduct. This requirement remains regardless of how a batting sexual assault on their website at www.cmsac. person is dressed, the specifics of what intoxicants they org. chose to consume or their relationship status. Theising Sexual assault affects all communities, including encourages people to clearly communicate their bound- ours in central Minnesota. We hope you will join us in aries in their relationships and be assertive about these working to change that and help make a better tomorrow. boundaries. Theising said, “It’s OK to be loud and asserFor more crime prevention information and safety tive to someone who is sexually pressuring you, even if information, visit the Benton County Sheriff’s Office it hurts their feelings.” website, www.co.benton.mn.us/211/Crime-Prevention. Sexual assaults are generally accomplished when a You can also like and follow us on Facebook and Twitperpetrator gains access to a victim and is able to exploit ter at @BentonMNSheriff for regular updates and crime the level of trust given to them. The access piece is espe- prevention messages.
Nitrogen: A plant nutrient Monitoring the condition of the plants Fertilizer packages always have three in our gardens is important because too numbers on them. The first of these is nimuch nitrogen in the soil can cause plants to trogen which is an important nutrient for grow tall and leggy with a lot of leaves but plant growth. While nitrogen can be added fewer blossoms, fruit or vegetables. Carrots to the soil using commercial fertilizer, as grown in soil with too much nitrogen are not ammonium nitrate, it can also be supplied as sweet. When I had spruce trees removed by nature. Bacteria in the soil attached to from my back yard because they were dyplant roots can convert the nitrogen into a ing from needle cast disease, the roots were form usable by plants. The bacteria, in turn, left in the ground. Three quarters of the rereceives energy from the plant roots. Niplacement trees planted that same year did trogen can be converted in several ways GREEN AND not survive because the decaying spruce for use by various plants. These processes GROWING are too complicated to explain in a short IN BENTON COUNTY roots were pulling nitrogen from the soil and column, but an online search can provide BY LINDA G. TENNESON starving the replacement trees. This occurred the second year also. Enough decay had ocadditional information on the subject. Nitrogen is a mobile element and can convert from curred to leave nitrogen in the soil by the third year, and the gas form found in the air we breathe to the fertilizer the last set of replacement trees survived. A shortage of used in our gardens and fields. The nitrogen found in nitrogen can create stunted growth in both leaves and air cannot be used by plants until it has been fixed or stems or leaves that are lighter green than normal. An transformed by those plant species that are able to do extreme nitrogen shortage can cause leaves to wither that process. When clover, soybean, alfalfa, peanut and and turn brown. Excess nitrogen can also leach or drain some other plants die at the end of the season, they leave through the soil into our lakes and streams causing algae usable nitrogen in the soil which is then available to just as excess phosphorus does. Planting buffer zones plants that cannot do this conversion themselves. This of nitrogen-absorbing plants near lake shores and rivers is the reason farmers rotate crops in their fields and why can solve this problem. The important thing is to observe gardeners sometimes plant cover crops in the fall. The plants and look for unusual growth or leaf colors which classic gardening example: planting corn, bean and may be signs of excess or deficient nitrogen. The University of Minnesota Extension website squash together is done because the bean plants fix a lot of nitrogen in the soil which is then available to the corn https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/ which uses it. White clover may be allowed to grow in may help with diagnosing either of these conditions. Linda G. Tenneson is a University of Minnesota Exour lawns because it also adds nitrogen to the soil which is needed by the grass. Red clover, false indigo and lu- tension Master Gardener and Tree Care Advisor. pines can add nitrogen to our flower gardens.
NEWS
Pulse on People
Benton County marriage applications
– Alan John Pekarek and Heidi Irene Schrom, both of Foley. – Tavis Albert Bergmann, of Foley, and Taylor Mae Engelkes, of Zimmerman. – Bradley Christopher Janus and Kendra Rose Vizenor, both of Foley.
Students recognized for academic achievements
COLLEGEVILLE – Benjamin DeMars, child of Daniel and Amanda DeMars; Jack Grabinski, child of Michael and Jes Grabinski; Connor Kockler, child of Shawn and Kimberly Kockler; Preston Kopel, child of Scott and Shelly Bauerly Kopel of Sauk Rapids; and Erik Moline, child of Mark and Jill Moline of Sauk Rapids, have been named to the St. John’s University spring dean’s list for completing a semester GPA of 3.8 or greater. ST. CLOUD – Rice residents Emma Beauchamp, Kayla Brenny, Caden Collins, Annastasia Lentner, Shelby Nemeth, Colin O’Leary, Jenalyn Ostendorf, Nikki Sawyer, Emily Schreindl, Sidney Simmons, Autum Starry, Joshua Virnig, Kira Weber, Elisabeth Wheeles and Cole Wunderlich as well as Sauk Rapids residents Mary Allen, Libby Asper, Haeli Bell, Mackenzie Berg, Caitlin Berger, Kaitlynn Christen, Caleb Crow, Carine Djouedjhoun, Joy Fastenau, Fred Feldhege, Abby Hennen, Adam Iburg, Carleen Keske, Benjamin Konz, Maddison Larsen, Ellie LeBlanc, Allison Lieske, Reid Lunser, John Maidl, Tara Martin, Makayla Mayers, Rachel Neumann, Randall Nolan, Rachel Philipp, Grace Piechowski, Drake Raduns-Parsley, Casey Renter-Thomas, Lydia Rudnitski, Emily Schimnich, Katlyn Schulz, Spencer Sop, Morgan Strandberg, Taylor Tadych, Keara Thornton, Abigail Trelfa, Tammy Wahl, Candace Wasner, Sarah Weyh and Mitchell Wruck have been named to the St. Cloud Technical and Community College spring president’s list for achieving a 4.0 GPA. ST. CLOUD – Rice residents Stacy Alf, Dylan Bengtson, Cassandra Dehon, Kristi Dunker, Kayla Fleischhacker, Isaiah Hall, Chloe Janski, Bridgette Lenzen, Brooke Nelson, Lily Prince, Victoria Smith and Madilynn Westberg as well as Sauk Rapids residents Nicole Ash, Cole Bonovsky, RaeAnn Boos, Sheikh Cham, Shauna Corrigan, Jennifer Cruz, Marissa Genty, Kali Gummert, Nicholas Henkemeyer, Koral Kampa, Landon Lunser, Richard Majeski, Abigail Menden, Tyson Mushatt, Natasha Newell, Ashley Olson, Brooke Petermeier, Jordan Preble, Clarisa Raya Ambriz, Kristin Reynolds, Shaina Rosa, Anna Schave, Tyler Schave, Nicholas Schlichting, Joshua See, Jorge Serna, Olivia Stadler, Natalie Westergren and Krystene Wiese have been named to the St. Cloud Technical and Community College spring dean’s list for achieving a GPA of 3.5 to 3.99. ST. JOSEPH – Peyton Kopel, child of Scott and Shelly Kopel, has been named to the College of St. Benedict spring semester dean’s list for achieving a semester GPA of 3.8 or greater. VALLEY CITY, N.D. – Jacob Knapek, of St. Cloud, was named to the Valley City State University spring president’s honor roll for achieving a semester GPA of 4.0. Knapek is a 2019 Sauk Rapids-Rice High School graduate.
Police Report July 5-11 Sauk Rapids Police Department The Sauk Rapids Police Department’s record management system was down when this week’s activity report was requested. The report for July 5-11 will be included in the July 24 Sauk Rapids Herald. Rice Police Department July 10, 1:50 p.m. – An officer was traveling west on County Road 2 when he noticed a vehicle traveling in the same direction at a high rate of speed. A rear-facing radar locked the vehicle at 68 mph in a 55 mph zone. The officer pulled over, let the vehicle pass and then conducted a traffic stop. The driver denied speeding but provided a driver’s license and proof of insurance, stating the license was expired because he recently moved from Colorado. The officer ran the Colorado license, which came back as revoked. The officer issued a driving after revocation citation and explained to the driver they could not proceed to drive. Driver called for a ride. Incidents: Miscellaneous calls 9, traffic stops 8, driving calls 4, suspicious activity reports 4, assists 3, thefts 3 and vehicle calls 3.
Page 8 | SATURDAY, JULY 17, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
Public Notice
REGULAR MEETING SAUK RAPIDS CITY COUNCIL SAUK RAPIDS GOVERNMENT CENTER, 250 Summit Ave N. Monday, June 28, 2021 6:00PM MINUTES 1. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance Mayor Kurt Hunstiger called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Members present: Nick Sauer, Ellen Thronson, and Jason Ellering. Members absent: Dottie Seamans. 2. Additions or Changes to the Agenda NONE 3. Approve the Agenda Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to approve the Agenda. Motion carried unanimously. 4. Approve Minutes A. 06-14-2021 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to approve the 06-14-2021 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes. Motion carried unanimously. 5. Receive and File NONE 6. Mayor’s Communications • Odd/Even Watering Reminder—Mayor Hunstiger noted that the drought-like conditions have not decreased in central Minnesota. He reminded everyone that the Odd/Even Watering Ordinance needs to be adhered to. Because of the drought-like conditions, the City of Sauk Rapids has also banned watering from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. regardless of what side of the street a person lives on. Mayor Hunstiger said that the City doesn’t want to have to implement another watering ban, so they are asking for compliance with the watering rules in place. • Rapids River Days-Mayor Hunstiger thanked the Public Works Department, Police Department, and the Fire Department for all of their help in preparing for Rapids River Days in Sauk Rapids. • Congratulations to the 2021 Miss Sauk Rapids Royalty-Mayor Hunstiger congratulated the newly crowned 2021 Sauk Rapids Royalty. He noted that Taylor Sidla was named Miss Sauk Rapids. Chelsey Vogel and Addison Bemboom were named the Sauk Rapids Princesses for 2021. 7. Audience Items/Visitors Total Time Limit 2 Minutes for Items NOT on the Agenda Rand Schaper, 8605 NE River Road, stated that he is here tonight representing a buyer who is interested in purchasing the property at 1150 Benton Drive North. Schaper said that this particular piece of property has been on the market since 2007. He explained that the reason that this property remains on the market is because there are no city services to the property. Schaper requested that his client be allowed to put a septic system and a well in based on State requirements as it will be extremely expensive to get city services to this property at the moment. 8. Public Hearings NONE 9. Consent Agenda A. Approve Consideration of Agreement with Hoisington Koegler Group to Conduct the Comprehensive Plan Update Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Sauer to approve consent agenda item 9A. Motion carried unanimously. 10. Regular Agenda NONE 11. Other Staff Items A. July 1st Ribbon Cutting at Southside/Lions Park Ross Olson reminded everyone that the first free live music series, “Riverside Nights” begins this Thursday at the new Sauk Rapids outdoor parks venue, The Clearing. Olson noted that starting at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 1st, there will be a brief public venue dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony. The ribbon cutting has been posted as a public meeting of the City Council and the City’s HRA. B. Alcohol and Tobacco Compliance Checks Update from Police Chief Perry Beise advised the Council that the Sauk Rapids Police Department performed compliance checks on all of the licensed liquor and tobacco sales establishments in the City. Chief Beise noted that unfortunately two liquor establishments did not pass the compliance check. He stated that four tobacco establishments also failed their compliance checks. Beise discussed the fact that the Police Department plans to conduct compliance checks much more frequently. He explained the current penalties that each of the establishments and their employees face. Beise said that the last time that a liquor license establishment failed a compliance check, they were given the opportunity to participate in a MN Licensed Beverage Association (MLBA) mandatory training for all staff members in lieu of paying the $750 penalty. Beise said that the establishments with a tobacco license will be fined per the City Ordinance. The Council agreed by consensus to allow the liquor license establishments who failed their compliance check have the opportunity to participate in mandatory training for all staff members in lieu of paying the $750 penalty. C. Parade Clean-Up Pete Eckhoff thanked Republic Services, Marla Elness, Cathy Sauer, and the entire Rapids River Days Parade Committee for doing a great job cleaning up after the parade route. 12. Other Council Items and Communications NONE 13. Approve List of Bills and Claims Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to approve the List of Bills and Claims. Motion carried unanimously. 14. Adjournment Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Mayor Hunstiger adjourned the meeting at 6:20 p.m. R-28-1B
SPORTS
Storm 12U baseball team places 2nd
PHOTO SUBMITTED
The Sauk Rapids-Rice 12U boys AA baseball team – Isaac Miller (front, from left), Drew Heyne, Gavin Peterson, Tyler Metcalf and Griffin Rothstein; (back, from left) coach Jed Peterson, Liam Mick, coach Jamie Hemker, Bryce Ness, Owen Gales, Nolan Hemker, Payton Remer, coach Keith Rothstein and Parker Maertens – placed second in the Gopher State Tournament of Champions July 9-11 at Pine Cone Park in Sartell. SRR, the 22nd seed of 32 teams, went 2-1 in pool play before entering bracket play where the Storm triumphed over Grand Rapids 7-6 and Watertown-Mayer 9-8 before losing 11-8 to Andover in the championship.
Wild cut ties with Parise, Suter
Nine years ago, the Minnesota Wild going to get ugly toward the end. announced they had signed marquee free They were correct, and unfortuagents Zach Parise and Ryan Suter to idennately, we are now officially entering the tical 13-year, $98 million contracts. The ugly part of that timeline. contracts marked a turning point for the By releasing Parise and Suter, the Wild, who announced to the hockey world Wild created $10.33 million in cap space that they were making a serious commitfor this coming season, but the dead ment to field a consistently competitive money penalties moving forward are goteam. After largely delivering on that proming to be onerous. For the privilege of not ise, the Parise and Suter era ended July 13, having Parise and Suter play for them, COLUMNIST the Wild will be charged $12.74 million when the Wild announced they were buy- SPORTS BY ANDY THAYER ing out the last four years of the veterans’ in cap space in year 2022-23 and $14.74 contracts. million in both 2023-24 and 2024-25. When the Parise and Suter deals were ini- Yikes. tially signed, the hardcore Wild fans in my life all exThere are some benefits to this decision. The pressed similar sentiments: We had better win the cup Wild now have $26.2 million in cap space for the upin the early part of those contracts because things are coming season with nine free roster spots. They are in the process of negotiating long-term extensions with Kirill Kaprizov and Kevin Fiala, the team’s two top scorers, and the extra cap space will surely come in Public Notice handy in those talks. Additionally, the Wild can now CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME protect an additional forward and an additional defenMinnesota Statutes seman from Seattle in the upcoming expansion draft, Chapter 333 which should help the team retain core talent. The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user While they were unable to win the Stanley Cup, with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required the Parise-Suter era in Minnesota was largely a sucfor consumer protection in order to enable customers to be cess. The Wild have made the playoffs eight of the able to identify the true owner of a business. 1. List the exact assumed name under which the busi- past nine seasons and are positioned to make some ness is or will be conducted: Good Shepherd Supportive noise next year with a solid roster and more talent on the way. The dead money cap hits from Parise and Services. 2. Principle Place of Business: 1115 4th Ave N; Sauk Suter over the next four years are going to be burdenRapids, MN 56379 some, but general manager Bill Guerin and the rest of 3. List the complete name and complete address of the Wild’s front office clearly identified the last few all persons conducting business under the above Assumed years of those contracts as sunk costs for declining Name: Good Shepherd Lutheran Home of Sauk Rapids, players. The Wild correctly viewed roster flexibility Minnesota; 1115 4th Ave N; Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 and increased cap room as more valuable than retainI, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of ing two declining veteran players on big contracts for the person(s) whose signature would be required who has four more years. If the Wild can put the additional cap space to authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all good use this summer, this was the right decision required fields, and that the information is this document for the franchise. The mistake was giving Parise and is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable Suter 13-year deals in the first place, not identifying chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by sign- the contracts as sunk costs. This move is going to aling this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as low the Wild to protect two additional players in the set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document expansion draft, refresh the culture in the locker room under oath. and give the team some much-needed financial flexDate: June 1, 2021 /s/Michael Stordahl ibility this summer. It was a good run in Minnesota President/CEO for Parise and Suter, but it was time for the Wild to R-27-2B move forward.
Page 10 | SATURDAY, JULY 17, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
SPORTS
Sauk Rapids turns attention to playoffs No. 3 seed Post 254 to face St. Cloud 76ers in opening round
2 1/3 innings in another shortened effort to keep him fresh for the playoffs. Owen Arndt pitched the final 4 2/3 innings and BY TOM FENTON | STAFF WRITER did not give up a run. In a doubleheader Sauk Rapids Ameri- of the season, but a deagainst Cold Spring July can Legion coach Paul pleted lineup has con8 at Bob Cross Field, Wippler calls it baseball tributed to a losing streak Sauk Rapids lost the fatigue. that reached four games opening game 8-4. Cold It can be a common with a 10-3 loss to the Spring completed the thing toward the end of St. Cloud Chutes July 13 sweep with an 11-7 win the American Legion at Dick Putz Field in St. in the nightcap. baseball schedule, and Cloud. With the sub-state Jensen was 3 for 4 Wippler thinks his team playoffs beginning July with two RBIs, and Dom may have caught the vi- 18 in Sartell, things need Mathies added two hits in rus. The hope for Post to turn around quickly. game one. In game two, 254 is they find the anti“We’ve been playing Jeff Solorz and Bokeldote – and fast. a little sloppy and we’re man each had two hits. “These guys have letting one error affect Sauk Rapids has exPHOTOS BY TOM FENTON been going at it hard us the rest of the game,” Sauk Rapids American Legion baseball pitcher Landon Lunser throws to first to check tra incentive to reach the since March when high infielder Andrew Wol- a runner as Post 254 faced the St. Cloud Chutes July 13 at Dick Putz Field in St. Cloud. state tournament as it school practice started,” lak said. “When things Lunser pitched the first two innings, but Sauk Rapids gave up nine late runs in a 10-3 would have a chance to Wippler said. “We’ve got go wrong, it’s kind of loss. play on its home field. to figure it out quickly snowballing right now, said. “They were hitting vantage. In the Section Sauk Rapids. Alex HarLegion page 11 and we’re not getting and things imploded. Our 5AAA high school tour- ren started and pitched and see what hapthe situational hits defense has taken a little nament, the Storm were pens in the playwe need to win break lately. We’re going the No. 5 seed and enoffs.” games.” S a u k to have to put it together, tered with a 6-12 record. Post 254 or it’s two games and Rapids has Four wins later, is also down you’re out once the play- Sauk Rapids-Rice was been hittwo starters; offs start.” ting the ball the section champion Ben Rothstein and well for most Post 254, which took and earned its first berth Connor Hemker a 6-7 record into the reg- in the state tournament are injured. Com- ular-season finale July 15 since 1989. bine that with at Sartell, earned the third “I think once the family obliga- seed in the eight-team playoffs start, we’ll all be tions and other sub-state tournament and checked in a little more,” summer-related will face the St. Cloud Wollak said. “Once the activities, and 76ers at 7:30 p.m. July 18 playoffs start, we know the team has been at St. Cloud Orthopedic where we want to be, and struggling to find Field in Sartell. we’re going to come into healthy arms to take Sauk Rapids is, it with the same mentalthe mound. however, familiar with ity we had in high school. “We had noth- playoff success as a low Having done it before is ing left (against the seed and is hoping to use huge for us, and we know Chutes),” Wippler that experience to its ad- we can do it again.” Post 254 lost a 2-1 decision to Monticello Dom Mathies sprints to first base after drilling July 12 at Bob Cross Andrew Harren, who plays center field for the Sauk a ball during the Sauk Rapids American Legion Field in Sauk Rapids. Rapids American Legion Post 254 baseball team, connects with the ball during his team’s 10-3 loss to the Post 254 game against the St. Cloud Chutes July 13 at Dick Putz Field in St. Cloud. Mathies Jensen had two hits and St. Cloud Chutes July 13 at Dick Putz Field in St. Cloud. finished the game 1 for 3, but St. Cloud went on to a drove in the lone run for Post 254 is scheduled to begin the sub-state playoffs July 18 in Sartell.
10-3 victory.
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A crop sprouts at the Brown Family Farm July 9 in Oak Park. While it is going to be some time before the crop is ready to be picked, Ben and Jodi check on it regularly.
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Sauk Rapids Herald | Saturday, July 17, 2021
By University of Minnesota Extension A Minnesota tradition returns this year as 81 families from throughout Minnesota are being honored in person as 2021 Farm Families of the Year by the University of Minnesota. The farm families will be recognized in ceremonies beginning at 1:15 p.m. Aug. 5 at the annual Minnesota Farmfest on the Gilfillan Estate near Redwood Falls. The event is in the Wick Buildings Farmfest Center on the estate grounds. The program will include remarks by University of Minnesota President Joan Gabel. The families were chosen, one per county, by local University of Minnesota Extension committees based on their demonstrated commitment to enhancing and supporting agriculture and their communities. “The University of Minnesota takes pride in honoring these families,” said Bev Durgan, Extension dean. “The farm families receiving this year’s honors exemplify what makes Minnesota agriculture strong. They bring innovation, science and hard work to farming. They care greatly about the land and animals and delivering quality products to consumers worldwide.”
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Brown Family Farm built on hard work, determination
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The Brown family – Karli, 7, Jodi, William, 8, and Ben holding Kelsi, 5 – walk through a field in Zimmerman. They have since moved to Oak Park, farming on 12 acres. BY JAKOB KOUNKEL STAFF WRITER
OAK PARK – Tilling 12 acres of land on their farm in Oak Park, the Brown family cultivates over 100 varieties of crops for 450 families through community supported agriculture, a somewhat new and emerging style of farming. They moved to Oak Park in April 2020 and started planting two days later. Through CSA, the Brown Family Farm sells shares of their harvest to families in exchange for a box of diverse, locally cultivated fruits, vegetables and herbs. Families that purchase a share receive a box per week for 16 weeks between mid-June and early October.
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Having been in the CSA business for nine years, Ben and Jodi established a balance between work in the soil and the office. Ben assesses the land and de“There are different termines what it needs while Jodi takes of the administrative and office duscenarios every year care ties, though she spends most of her days in the fields, but the packing and delivering shares. They both have a determination to members are what succeed through a more personal style matter.” of farming. “You don’t just walk into this busi- Jodi Brown ness and have it ready and waiting for The green thumb of the operation, you,” Jodi said. “We started with 18 Ben Brown, has a degree in horticulture CSA members, and some of those folks from Central Lakes College in Brain- are still with us, too.” erd, where he met his wife and self-proclaimed black thumb of the operation, Jodi Brown, who has a degree in natural Brown family page 2B resources. Features a 1/2” thick High Density Solid Poly Floor and 3/4” thick Solid Poly sides for easy cleaning and minimal freeze up. Box flares and side panel retainers are made of SAE 304 Stainless Steel that resists rust and corrosion. This box is built to last!
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Page 2B | SATURDAY, JULY 17, 2021| SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
BENTON AG
Brown family from page 1B For Ben and Jodi, the road to get where they are now did not come easy, other than their commitment to stay on track. The Brown Family Farm is first-generation, which means they inherited no equipment, land or capital already established for farm purpos- e s ; everything they have, they earned through long days and hard labor. “We didn’t have any equipment, seeding trays or even a tractor, but we made it work,” Jodi said. The Browns endured years of pennypinching and manual labor with small victories along the way. In their beginning years, Jodi said they farmed on 10 acres of land scattered between Elk River, Big Lake and Zimmerman. It was less than ideal having to travel between towns to work on their land, but to the Browns, it was worth it because they were pursuing their dream, however unconventional the farming style
PHOTOS BY JAKOB KOUNKEL
(Above) Jodi Brown checks on the farm’s winter squash before leaving to pick up her kids from daycare July 9 at the Brown Family Farm in Oak Park. They also grow other squash varieties like butternut, buttercup, acorn, carnival and sweet dumpling. (Left) Pigs on the Brown Family Farm munch on zucchinis July 9 that were cultivated on the same land in Oak Park. The Brown Family Farm grows food for families through community supported agriculture.
and b a c k breaking the work was. Their work ethic was also motivated by their children – William, 8, Karli, 7, and Kelsi, 5. Now, having found their “forever farm” in Oak Park and gaining more traction with their business, Jodi said they continue to farm via direct support from their sup-
porters and partners. Looking forward, Jodi said they plan on staying the course. “Exactly this,” Jodi said when asked what is in store for the future. “I’d like to add a couple different things on to what we’re doing here, like the pigs, but this is what we want to do.” Ben and Jodi recently started raising pigs, all of which are already spoken
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for by various members, as they continue to expand on what they can offer. Along with the box of weekly produce also come instructions for recipes and tips and tricks for cooking and storing the food. The boxes come in three sizes, and they contain foods like tomatoes, watermelons, corn, peppers, onions, zucchinis, and herbs, though there are more than 100 different kinds of crops available. The farthest any box
travels is 60 miles. “The process is harvesting it, washing it, packing it, delivering it,” Jodi said. “I give (Ben) a list every morning and say, ‘I need 242 heads of romaine lettuce, and I need three bushels of sugar snap peas and so on.’ And then he harvests it and that’s what we use to pack our shares every day.” The growing season begins in late March with seeds in a greenhouse. The Browns transplant the
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seedlings into the soil after they’ve began go grow, though they can direct seed certain crops like radishes and beans. One of the trickiest parts of moving to the Oak Park location was and continues to be learning about the land. Jodi said it will be years before they have the knowledge about the characteristics of their current soil compared to what they knew about their prior land. “There’s different weeds and different things to worry about,” Jodi said. “We never used to have thistles, and there are thistles here everywhere. We used have a ton of sand burs; now we don’t have any. You just have to learn as you go, but Ben has been doing this long enough to know what to do.” Jodi also greatly credits their employees, a group of less than 10 people on average who are largely friends and family, for their dedication and for sharing a vision of what CSA can be. Even through the difficult years, Ben and Jodi – both in their early 30s – knew they were taking a bit of a leap of faith when they decided to risk it as early adopters of a new trend in small-acreage family farming.
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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 17, 2021 | Page 3B
from page 2B
Farm families from page 1B
The Farm Family Recognition Program has honored Minnesota farmers since 1979. It is coordinated by University of Minnesota Extension, the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences and the College of Veterinary Medicine. Area 2021 Farm Families of the Year are:
Benton County – Emslander Farms The Emslander farm was purchased in 1971 by Dave and Rosie Emslander. They began their dream of farming by raising a couple of sows and selling feeder pigs at market until 1973 when the couple decided to milk cows. They started with 10 cows and slowly increased their herd to 30. In 1980, the Emslanders doubled their barn size and began milking 60. The Emslanders raised nine children. All the kids helped on the farm when they were young. Dave and Rose sold their milking cows when their youngest child, David, left the farm to work construction in 2000. Dave and Rosie continued to raise steers, beef cows and row crops. David missed the way farm life brought family together, so he and his wife, Lisa, decided farming would be a good way to raise their family. They purchased the farm from David’s parents in 2014 and started buying bottle calves and raising them to finish. Currently, the couple buys steers at 400 pounds and finishes them. David and Lisa have three children – Shayla, Ethan and Megan. Shayla helps full time on the farm and loves farm-
PHOTOS BY JAKOB KOUNKEL
(Above) The sun shines on the Brown Family Farm July 9 in Oak Park. Employees were working out in the field, close to finishing up for the day. (Right) Brown Family Farm employees Grace Olson (from left), Anna Brown, Jodi Brown, Hannah Bodnar and Jennifer Faue work hard before day’s end July 9 at the farm in Oak Park. They were picking zucchinis.
in the fields, but the members are what matter.” The relationship also serves as a mutually valu-
able partnership between another family families, where one fam- doing what they ily gets the quality produce love. they want while supporting
ing; she hopes to become a big part of the future of the farm her grandparents started. Ethan helps with a lot of the projects on the farm and is leaning toward working in the construction industry. The Emslanders’ youngest daughter, Megan, helps with chores including driving skidloader and bedding the cattle. Megan also loves farming. Along with some parttime help, the Emslanders run the farm together. The family teams up with the University of Minnesota Extension and their local Natural Resources Conservation Service to improve water quality and soil conversation by experimenting with management practices and cover crops. Kanabec County – Nielsen Farms The first members of the Nielsen family came to America from Denmark in 1921 and moved to southern Minnesota to begin farming. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Nielsen family farming in the United States. Terry and Laneta Nielsen left southern Minnesota’s Martin County with their children in 1980 and purchased land south of Ogilvie in Kanabec County. Along with the help of their children, the Nielsens began their new farming operation on a few hundred acres raising 400 head of cattle and 200 sows. Currently, the farm grows corn, soybean, wheat, oat, alfalfa and hay. It is home to many cow-calf pairs. Terry and Laneta are the owner-operators of the farm. Their son, Darek, is a co-owner and along with his wife, Ally, takes care of a wide variety of daily and seasonal tasks. The Nielsens’ daughter, Mindy, drives semi and is the roller operator. Terry’s brother, Gary, contributes to the farm’s success by driving the semi-truck.
The Nielsens conduct on-farm trials for several agricultural companies and their own personal knowledge. They have been part of Randy Dowdy’s Next Level group the last couple of years, and the family participates in the Adopt-aHighway program. Mille Lacs County – Gerth Farms William Gerth purchased the farm in 1924. The farm ownership was passed down through the family until 1965 when Gene and Judy Gerth moved to the homestead to start their family. Gene and Judy raised purebred Angus cattle and later hogs. In addition to livestock, they grew corn, soybean and hay. As their family grew, sons Ross and Ryan became fully involved in dayto-day operations alongside their parents. Upon Gene’s passing in 2009, Ross and Ryan took over the operations of the Gerth family farm. They are the fourth generation to farm the land. Today, the farm is operated by Ross, Ryan and their mother, Judy. They grow corn and soybean on owned and rented land. In addition to their own farm, the Gerths also do custom work for a few local farms. The combination of their own farm and custom work finds the Gerths covering just under a couple thousand acres per year. Judy is a past secretary and manager of the Mille Lacs County Fair. Gene served on the Mille Lacs County Fair board for 25 years, the Minnesota State Fair board, and the Mille Lacs County Soil and Water Conservation District Board. Ryan and Ross are also active members of the community. Ryan is a board member of the East Central Corn Growers Association. Ross is a board member of Federated Co-ops. Both Ryan and Ross
have full-time careers outside of farming with families of their own. Ryan and his wife, Annie, have a daughter, Aurora. Ross and his wife, Michelle, have a son, Grayson. Judy worked for Princeton State Bank prior to staying home to raise her sons. Today, Judy remains busy continuing to help where she is needed in farming operations and enjoying being a grandma. Morrison County – Calvin and Tammy Beumer, of Lone Pine Farm Lone Pine Farm was started in 1937 by Henry Beumer, Calvin’s grandfather. Years later, Henry’s son Edmund and his wife, Mary, purchased the farm. In 1983, Calvin and Tammy bought the dairy farm from Calvin’s parents. In 1987, they built a poultry barn to raise broiler chickens for the Jack Frost company, and in 2004, the family started a beef herd. The Beumers have established a diverse approach to farming. The family’s operation includes 85 dairy cows, chickens and a cow-calf herd. The family also grows corn, soybean, alfalfa, oat and grass hay on about 600 acres. Conservation of the farm’s soil and natural resources has been important to the Beumers throughout the family’s history on the farm. Calvin and Tammy manage the day-to-day operation of the farm. Their four children and grandchildren enjoy spending time and helping on the farm. Their son Allen and his wife, Heather, along with their children manage the chicken barn. The Beumers’ daughter Leann and her husband, Chad, and their children manage the beef herd. The Beumers are members of St. Rita’s Church in Hillman and are members of the Minnesota
Dairy Herd Improvement Association. The family is involved in the Hillman Swampstompers Snowmobiling Club and supports the Milaca FFA Foundation. Calvin served on the county Farm Service Agency committee, Milaca school board and is serving on the board of directors of Sunrise Ag Cooperative. Sherburne County – Mertz Family The Mertz family’s Iron Shoe Farm was established in April 2013. The farm is a diversified operation providing Hereford beef, along with heritage breed pork and pasture-raised chickens to consumers and restaurants locally and throughout the Twin Cities metro area. The family operates an onfarm store and market and works with other producers to support their local food system. Iron Shoe Farm is a sustainable farm and is home to pasture-raised Hereford cattle, pastureraised Mangalista and Red Wattle pigs, pasture-raised chickens and laying hens. The Mertzes grow microgreens, edible flowers, vegetables and herbs. Carla Mertz is the farm’s owner-operator and her husband, David, handles many of the farm’s daily operations. Carla and David’s daughter, Morgan, also handles many of the day-to-day chores and deliveries. Morgan is off to Adrian College in Michigan this fall to study chemistry. The Mertzes continue to support local foods and the work of the Minnesota Farmers Union. The family collaborates with local chefs and hosts an annual dinner on the farm to promote agritourism. Carla has made many presentations on local food production for the Sustainable Farming Association, MFU, the University of Minnesota
and the 100 Rural Women’s Group. She also serves on the Sherburne County Extension Committee. Stearns County – Glen and Sadie Frericks Glen and Sadie started farming in 2005 on Sadie’s family’s farm in northeastern Minnesota. The couple moved their herd of 40 cows to Stearns County in 2006 and purchased a farm of their own a year later. Today, the Frerickses milk 100 cows and raise their own replacements. In the winter, they house their cows in a tie-stall barn with a sand-bedded freestall barn in their future. In the summer, the cows and heifers graze on 100 acres of perennial pasture. The Frerickses own 20 acres and rent another 55 acres of cropland on which they rotate silage corn and alfalfa, all protected by cover crops. Glen and Sadie are the owner-operators of their farm. Their children Dan, Monika and Daphne help with a variety of chores. The Frerickses are members of Adley Creek 4-H Club and show at the Stearns County Fair. They are also members of the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation and Land O’ Lakes Cooperative. Sadie serves on the boards of the Minnesota Milk Producers Association and Cooperative Network.
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The families they serve want to throw their support behind farmers they know while receiving locally sourced and cultivated food they know they can trust. Share members can see pictures posted on the farm’s social media of their work on the farm, which includes transparency – even when it might not be the best news. “Keeping the members around is more important than making a buck,” Jodi said, who maintains that loyalty and transparency in communicating with their members is critically important. … “There are different scenarios every year
BENTON AG
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 17, 2021 | Page 5B
Rural Finance Authority clears way for disaster loans
Eligible drought-affected farmers can now apply for zero-interest financing
ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Rural Finance Authority Board determined July 14 an emergency exists in Minnesota due to drought, which makes zero-interest loans available imLmediately for Minnesota efarmers whose operations fare suffering from lack of rain. “The RFA board members voted unanimously to make these disaster recovery funds available because of current drought conditions,” said Thom Petersen, Minnesota Agriculture
Commissioner. “This zero-interest loan program is especially important for farmers whose crops and livestock are suffering from the drought and were not insured or were underinsured.” The Disaster Recovery Loan Program can be used to help cover lost revenue or expenses not covered by insurance. The funds can be used to help clean up, repair or replace farm buildings, repair or replace septic and water systems, replace seed, fertilizer (or other cropping inputs), feed or livestock and
poultry. Farmers in Minnesota counties considered to be in severe drought or worse (D2+ on the U.S. Drought Monitor’s designation) and in contiguous counties are eligible to apply. Eligible farmers must have received at least 50% of their annual gross income from farming for the past three years and will work through their bank to secure the loans from the RFA. Interest rates on the RFA portion of the loan are currently set at 0%. More information on the Disaster Recovery Loan is on the Minnesota Department of Agriculture website.
U.S. Drought Monitor Minnesota As of July 13 Provided by Deborah Bathke, National Drought Mitigation Center
Modern farming from page 4B
PHOTO BY JAKOB KOUNKEL
Austin Law (left), Tom Beckel and Michelle Olson, of the Twin Cities Road Crew, shoot video around one of Jake Bauerly’s largest pieces of farm equipment at Bauerly’s farm in rural Sauk Rapids July 13. Law and Beckel are cameramen, and Olson is the actress playing Maizey in the corncob suit.
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Page 8B | SATURDAY, JULY 17, 2021| SAUK RAPIDS HERALD CO COU COUPON
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Nate Watters (back, center) discusses apple varieties July 9 during a tour of the orchard at Milk and Honey Ciders in St. Joseph. Watters is co-owner and cidermaker at Keepsake Cidery in Dundas.
Featured Old World cider apple varieties The following 12 Old World varieties were featured on a July 9 tour of the orchard at Milk and Honey Cider in St. Joseph. Through their Cider Apple Project, University of Minnesota researchers
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Porter’s Perfection
Origin: England Bloom: Early May Harvest: Late September Description: Produces a goodquality, bittersharp juice that is popular in cider production. It is most often used in blends.
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Brown’s Apple
Origin: England Bloom: Early to mid-May Harvest: Late September Description: Produces a sharp juice; amber in color. Notes of citrus, cut grass, butterscotch and honey on the nose. Benefits from blending.
Dabinett
Origin: France and England Bloom: Mid- to late-May Harvest: Mid-October Description: Produces a bittersweet juice; amber in color. Tannins (bitterness) tend to dominate the flavor of this singlevarietal; suitable for blending.
Major
Foxwhelp
Tremlett’s Bitter
Bulmer’s Norman
Chisel Jersey
Ashmead’s Kernel
Harry Master’s Journey Kingston Black
Origin: France and England Bloom: Early to mid-May Harvest: Mid-September Description: Produces a sweet juice; mildly bitter and gold in color. Cider is light-bodied and well-balanced with a refreshing finish.
Origin: England Bloom: Mid-May Harvest: Late September Description: Produces a bittersweet juice with typical barnyard characteristics. Long tannic/ astringent finish adds complexity to a blend.
Origin: England Bloom: Early May Harvest: Early October Description: Produces a bittersharp juice; amber in color and highly acidic. Notes of sharp apple, pear and butterscotch. Best in blends.
Origin: England Bloom: Mid-May Harvest: Early to mid-September Description: Produces a bittersweet juice; amber-copper in color. Very aromatic with a long tannic finish. Good for blends.
Origin: England Bloom: Mid-May Harvest: Mid-October Description: Produces a sharp juice with strong tannic bitterness. Even a small amount of this juice adds depth and complexity to a blend.
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missy@saukherald.com 320-291-9899
Origin: England Bloom: Mid- to late-May Harvest: Mid-October Description: Produces a sugary yet sharp juice. Single-varietal cider is rich and well-balanced.
Origin: England Bloom: Mid-May Harvest: Early to mid-October Description: Produces a bittersweet juice that works as a single-varietal. Cider is balanced with notes of melon, berries and butterscotch.
Origin: England Bloom: Mid-May Harvest: Late September Description: Produces a sharp juice; gold to amber in color. Suitable for single-varietal cider, with soft tannins and notes of citrus and apple.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION
Yarlington Mill
Origin: England Bloom: Mid-May Harvest: Late September Description: Produces a bittersweet juice that is low in acid. Adds soft tannins and structure to a blend but is suitable for a single-varietal. Cider apple page 9B
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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JULY 17, 2021 | Page 9B
Cider apple from page 8B
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University of Minnesota fruit specialists host cider apple production field day
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ST. JOSEPH – When it comes to making cider, experts say it is not apples to apples. While any variety can be used, not every apple is created equal. The flavor characteristics of apples have a huge impact on the flavor, aroma and mouthfeel of a cider, according to Annie Klodd, University of Minnesota Extension educator for fruit production. Cider enthusiasts studied and sampled the core ingredient of the Epopular beverage July 9 during a cider apple production field day hosted by the University of Minnesota Extension. Extension educators, university researchers and experienced cider growers gave guided tours of the orchard at Milk and Honey Ciders in rural St. Joseph. About 50 people evaluated a dozen Old World varieties that originated in European countries. Experts highlighted cider apple variety selection in Minnesota and best practices for orchard management. Afterward, attendees tasted and compared ciders made with 12 Minnesota apple varieties by the University of Minnesota enology program. Some of the attendees were apple growers or cider makers, while others were considering starting their own cidery and sourcing apples. The field day aimed to connect people who make cider and raise apples for its production, Klodd said. Minnesota’s cider scene Hard cider, a fermented beverage made from the juice of apples, is making a big splash in the Minnesota craft beverage scene, according to Klodd. A number of cideries have opened in Minnesota. This is opening doors for people looking to try something new and providing a new avenue for orchards to sell their crop, Klodd said. In 2016, cider makers and apple growers founded the Minnesota Cider Guild to promote, develop and showcase Minnesota cider. The guild provides cider-making resources for members, and its website has a map of member cideries for those looking to visit one.
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Annie Klodd, University of Minnesota Extension educator for fruit production, discusses one of a dozen Minnesota apple varieties used to make cider. The university hosted a cider apple field production day July 9 for people interested in starting or enhancing cider apple growing and/or making.
Olga Zenteno of St. Cloud samples apple cider July 9 at a field day at Milk and Honey Ciders in St. Joseph. Guests tasted and compared 12 individual ciders made by the University of Minnesota enology program.
What makes a cider apple? In terms of cider making, apples are characterized as sharp, bittersharp, sweet and bittersweet, depending on tannin and acid levels of the variety, Klodd said. Apples that may be too bitter to be eaten fresh may be useful for cidermaking. Cider apples are known to contain tannins, which are bitter but help to balance a cider that may otherwise be too sweet, too thin or too onedimensional in flavor. Too many tannins, however, can make cider too bitter, so correct balance is key. Acidity not only imparts a sharp edge to a good cider but ensures good fermentation. Often a combination of apples with different flavors and acid levels are used to craft high-quality ciders, Klodd said. Proven-good Minnesota cider apple varieties Klodd said chestnut crabapples and Keepsake are two Minnesota-grown
varieties known to produce good cider. Introduced in 1978, Keepsake apples ripen in mid-October, according to information from the Extension. These apples are described as very hard and crisp with yellow flesh and an exotic sweet, spicy flavor. The tree is of medium vigor and easy to manage. Introduced in 1949, chestnut crabapples ripen in early September. They are large with a rich, nutty flavor. Some of the cider sampled by field day attendees was made with apple varieties developed by the University of Minnesota. U of M-trademarked apples include SnowSweet, described as savory and sweet, with a slight tart balance and rich overtones, and SweeTango, described as juicy and sweet, with hints of fall spices and deep-red coloration over a yellowbreaking background. Cider Apple Project In 2019, Klodd and researchers from the Uni-
versity of Minnesota’s fruit breeding program received a grant for research and outreach on growing cider apples. Their goals were to determine the best varieties to grow and use for hard cider in Minnesota and to determine the cider characteristics of Minnesota-hardy apples. Currently, much of the cider in Minnesota is made from University of Minnesota hardy varieties such as Haralson, Keepsake, Honeycrisp and SnowSweet. Cider has provided a new market for orchards currently growing these common varieties, according to Klodd. Knowing the characteristics of Minnesota hardy apples will help makers decide which apple varieties to use in their ciders and will help new Minnesota apple growers decide what varieties to plant and sell for cider, she said. Milk and Honey Ciders, of St. Joseph, is one of seven Minnesota orchards growing 12 Old World cider apple varieties: Ashmead’s Kernel, Brown’s, Bulmer’s Norman, Chisel Jersey, Dabinett, Foxwhelp, Harry Masters Jersey, Kingston Black, Major, Porter’s Perfection, Tremlett’s Bitter and Yarlington Mill. Klodd and university researchers are working with the orchards to evaluate yield, winter injury and tree growth. The process involves making cider from each variety and testing it for juice qualities (tannin content, total acidity, etc.) and sensory qualities such as aroma, flavor and feel.
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BENTON AG Plus
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We greatly appreciate your readership. 1. What topics do you most enjoy reading about in Benton Ag Plus? ____________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ 2. Is there a type of livestock you feel is missing from our coverage? If so, what? ___________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ 3. What non-livestock topics do you wish we covered more of? (Farm succession planning, regulatory changes, crop disease, etc.) ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ 4. We cover Benton, Morrison, Mille Lacs and Kanabec counties and some areas of Stearns and Sherburne. Of those counties, is there an area you wish to read more about? ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ 5. Do you know of a farm family in your community that we should feature? Why? (Please include contact information if you feel comfortable doing so.) __________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ 6. Additional thoughts? ________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________
Please send comments to: Sauk Rapids Herald, 2 Second Ave. S. Suite 135 Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 Or, email them to natasha@saukherald.com