Sauk Rapids Herald - January 23

Winter Sports Preview B Section

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Saturday, January 23, 2021

State expands COVID-19 vaccine distribution Teachers, elders included in pilot program

BY JAKOB KOUNKEL & NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

FOLEY – Minnesota launched a statewide vaccine pilot program Jan. 18, expanding the priority populations who are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine.

Though it is a pilot program, those eligible for the vaccine expanded from health care workers and long-term care residents to also include all people 65 years of age and older, pre-kindergarten through 12th grade educators and staff, and childcare workers.

“We are building for the future and doing what we can to get more shots to Minnesotans right now,” said Gov. Tim Walz in a press release. “By beginning to serve those age 65 and older, educators and childcare workers, we are immunizing for impact.”

The pilot program features nine sites across the state: St. Cloud, Anoka, Brooklyn Center, Fergus Falls, Marshall, Mountain Iron, North Mankato, Rochester and Thief River Falls.

Eligible people can schedule their vaccine appointments on the state’s website mn.gov/ covid19/vaccine or by calling 1-833-431-2053. All recipients will be asked their name, address, phone number, gender, race, ethnicity, date of birth and health information.

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

Vol. 166, No. 42

Tangen, Rudnik nominated for Triple ‘A’ Award Sauk Rapids-Rice seniors achieved excellence in academics, arts, athletics

BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – Abigail Tangen and Eli Rudnik, seniors at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, were chosen as nominees for the 2021 Academics, Arts and Athletics Award.

Awarded annually to four seniors, a boy and a girl from Class A and Class AA schools, the Minnesota State High School League Triple ‘A’ Award honors high school seniors throughout the state who have attained a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher and who participate in league-sponsored athletic

and fine arts activities.

Nominated by SRRHS for their well-rounded school experiences, Tangen and Rudnik are two of 32 Triple ‘A’ Award finalists across the state. The top two award finishers from each region will be invited to a recognition banquet in March, and MSHSL officials will announce the four statewide winners, two boys and two girls, at that time. Winners will receive a four-year, $1,000 scholarship. The banquet is expected to take place virtually this year.

“I’m excited,” said Tangen, the daughter of Jason and Laura Tangen.

Rudnik is the son of Mike Rudnik and Sue Rudnik.

“It feels pretty good that I was nominated for this award,” he said.

Abigail Tangen

Eli Rudnik

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The whole Nine Yards

Handmade, vintage home décor shop opens in Sauk Rapids

BY ELLARRY PRENTICE | STAFF WRITER

Vaccine page 5

PHOTO BY ELLARRY PRENTICE

Publications The newspaper of today is the history of tomorrow.

PUBLIC NOTICES

ST T R

Andrew Schultz stands behind the counter at his store, Nine Yards, in downtown Sauk Rapids Jan. 13. The business opened for the first time the second weekend in January.

SAUK RAPIDS – Whether it was his ever-expanding childhood treehouse or an old piece of furniture he transformed from drab to chic, Andrew Schultz has been building, repurposing and designing things for as long as he can remember.

Now, Schultz has taken his once-traveling collection of handiworks and made a home for it in downtown Sauk Rapids.

Schultz opened Nine Yards, a handmade, vintage home décor shop, at 111 Division St., in January. Open two weekends a month, the store offers one-of-a-kind handcrafted goods, vintage items, farmhouse décor and curated collections either made by Schultz or sourced from makers in Minnesota and North Dakota.

Schultz sells a range of locally-sourced, repurposed furniture and smaller decorative pieces, including tables, chairs, stands, shelves, wood signs and wall hangings.

When available, other treasures in his 775-square-foot shop include planter boxes, candles, pillows, lamps, metal tins, vases and blanket ladders.

• Sauk Rapids-Rice Advertisement for Bids - pg. 9 • Benton County Board of Commissioners Reg. Minutes - pg. 10 • Benton County Board of Commissioners Special Minutes - pg. 10 • Benton County Board of Commissioners Public Hearing - pg. 9 • Cellco Partnership Public Notice - pg. 9

Nine Yards page 3

OBITUARIES • Shirley L. Bergeson • Donald A. Kainz

NEWS

Page 2 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

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she has been taking for years. Though some of her classes were difficult, they were worth it, she said.

“You just keep trying, and you always learn something,” Tangen said.

Tangen’s education at SRR schools helped her prepare for what is to come.

She credits her teachers for helping shape her into the person she is today.

“They leave it to you to decide who you’re going to be and what you’re going to strive for,” Tangen said. “They found ways to challenge me that I didn’t even know you could be challenged.”

Tangen’s favorite class was seventh grade biology with Mrs. Lingle.

“I felt more accomplished at the end of it than any other class,” she said.

Another teacher Tangen will always remember is Mr. Karasch.

“He was the most helpful math teacher I’ve ever had,” she said.

Tangen appreciates that her teachers pushed her to work hard, meet expectations and be accountable.

“They give you what you give,” she said. “If you give 110%, they give 110%.”

When she graduates from high school, Tangen will already have an associate degree. She is attending St. Cloud State University full time via the post-secondary education option and has her sights set on pre-medicine. She plans to pursue a dual degree in bio-medical engineering and biological and chemical engineering from Colorado State

University in Fort Collins before continuing on to medical school.

“I like school,” Tangen said. “I know that’s not something a lot of kids can say, but I really do.”

Tangen is a three-sport Storm athlete who has earned varsity letters as a swimmer, la crosse player and Nordic skier. She is captain of the swim and dive and Nordic ski teams.

She also played golf her freshman year.

A competitive swimmer since seventh grade, Tangen qualified for state five times, placing as high as 13th overall. She was named Hardest Worker three years in a row and Most Valuable Player in 2020.

Swimming is Tangen’s favorite sport. From day one, she challenged herself to improve with each stroke.

“I’d have my personal best list right next to my bed,” she said.

After joining the swim team, Tangen developed deep bonds with fellow swimmers, and her personal-best focus shifted.

“Suddenly it’s not just about your success; it’s everyone’s success,” she said.

Tangen broke four Storm swim records during her career and holds two, in the 400-meter freestyle and 200 freestyle relays.

“Abbie is such a renaissance woman,” said Stephanie Schlangen, former head swim and dive coach. “She is talented in so many diverse ways. Abbie possesses remarkable creativity, leadership and compassion, all of which she has cultivated

through all her experiences both in and out of school.

She has so many layers to from front her.”

Tangen joined the SRR-Apollo Nordic ski Tangen dives into team in ninth grade, and the challenges off-season sport opened up Tangen does not mind a new set of fulfilling chalbeing told she cannot lenges. do something. A bright “I like to change things student and record-setting up and try new things; it’s a athlete, she considers that hard sport,” she said. an opportunity to prove Tangen competed in a naysayers wrong.

Nordic ski section meet as Tangen has been takone of two SRR competiing on new challenges her tors. She appreciates the entire high school career. recognition the school disWhether she is soaking up trict gives to the ski team, knowledge in the classwhich is small compared to room or soaked from head other athletic programs. to toe at a swim meet, she Tangen joined the aims to better herself.

Storm la crosse team her “I really like challengsophomore year. es,” said Tangen, who lives “I love the intensity, in Sauk Rapids. and often times aggression, Her high school career that goes into the sport as has taught Tangen to seize well as the different atmoeach challenge as an opporsphere,” she said. “With tunity for growth, whether skiing and swimming, with she succeeds or fails. the exception of relays, you “I try to push myself compete alone, but in la to take on challenges,” she crosse you are constantly said of her academic and communicating and workathletic pursuits. “I always ing together. It’s a different get something out of them. kind of sport.”

It makes you better in the Tangen cherishes the long run. Even if you fail, connections she had with you know you’ve learned her teammates. something.”

“My best friends came Tangen expects to from athletics,” she said. graduate with a cumulative “When you’re skiing next grade point average of 3.8. to someone or ramming Her unremitting academic into someone, you really distinction has earned her bond. I appreciate athletics a place on the A honor roll for that reason.” since sixth grade, the CenWhen Tangen is in tral Lakes Conference acaclass, she strives to direct demic award for athletes all her attention to her studand membership in the ies. Sporting events, she Minnesota Honor Society. said, have provided great Her quest to continuopportunities to make ally grow and foster her friends and connect with abilities has included tackthem on a regular basis. ling challenging educationHer coursework necessial courses, including adtates a lot of studying, but vanced math classes, which she finds that sports provide much-needed breaks.

As an underclassman, Tangen dappled in fine arts, participating in plays.

Tangen also plays the ukulele.

“It makes campfires fun,” she said with smile.

Rudnik finds passion, unexpected friendships When Rudnik moved to Sauk Rapids from South Dakota, he had no PHOTO SUBMITTED idea he would discover Storm athlete Abbie Tangen competes in a swim meet in at Sauk Rapids-Rice High lifelong passions and forge School in Sauk Rapids. Tangen holds swim records in the 400-meter freestyle and 200 unexpected friendships freestyle relays. through participation in Storm activities.

As a SRRHS sophomore, Rudnik shadowed the culinary team and began competing during his Appointments required for ALL DMV Services junior year.

Due to building capacity limits and the large volume The culinary team prepared three dishes, and he of walk-in customers, the License Center (DMV) was in charge of dessert. will require appointments for ALL DMV Services.

For the management diviAppointments are now available sion of the competition, he helped create a business for ALL DMV Services. presentation for a restaurant and conduct virtual To schedule online go to: fundraising for its concep• www.co.benton.mn.us tion.

• Scroll down to Popular Links (on the left) At the state invitational, • Click on “make a DMV Appointment” the team won both the culinary and management division, qualifying for For online scheduling assistance call 320-968-5010, leave a nationals (postponed due message and we will return your call as soon as we can.

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Benton County License Center (DMV)

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Eli Rudnik prepares food as a member of the Sauk RapidsRice culinary team. The experience has inspired his dream to someday work in the food and beverage industry.

to COVID-19). He will always remember how exciting that moment was.

Rudnik was surprised to discover that he and his teammates – all different in their own way, he said – would become more than school acquaintances with a shared passion for culinary arts.

“Those people are my closest friends now,” he said.

Rudnik has also been a member of DECA since last school year, and he qualified for the state competition with his sales demonstration.

He has enjoyed meeting competitors across the state through both activities.

“I like the different types of people you get to meet,” he said.

Rudnik’s experiences in DECA and the culinary program are shaping his career aspirations. He intends to pursue a four-year degree, possibly in business relations or hospitality.

His dream job would be to manage a hotel’s food and beverage service or work in the food and beverage department on a cruise ship. “(Sauk Rapids-Rice) gave me the opportunity to be involved,” he said. “I didn’t even know culinary was a thing until I got here.

They’ve definitely helped me grow into what I want to do.”

Rudnik has played Storm soccer since eighth grade. A goal keeper, he was captain of the varsity team this past season.

“They kind of became my family,” Rudnik said of his soccer teammates.

“During huddles, we say ‘family!’”

Highlights for Rudnik were watching the soccer team improve from a season-long losing streak his freshman year to winning more than half their games his junior year; making it further in the playoffs than any other Storm team; beating Sartell, their biggest

rival; and making it to the semifinals.

“Being a part of giving that (success) to them as a junior when they were seniors was the best experience,” he said.

Now, as a senior himself, Rudnik enjoys being a role model for younger players, including his brother, a freshman.

“Eli is one of the most talented high school soccer goalies I have ever seen in my time as a coach,” said Chris Rothstein, head boys soccer coach. “Through his hard work, he has achieved a lot of personal accolades as well as helped his team find success.”

Rothstein said Rudnik has been a successful and integral member of the culinary team as well.

“In my experience, Eli is a very kind person who works very hard to reach his goals and to help his team, whatever type of team he is on,” he said.

Rudnik also played baseball his freshman year.

Rudnik said Storm involvement has played an important role in his life by keeping him motivated and instilling a strong work ethic. He is most grateful for the bond he shares with teammates.

“It builds relationships,” he said. “I would never have the group of friends I have now without high school activities and sports.”

Academically, Rudnik also works hard, he said.

He has maintained a 3.5 GPA and has consistently been on the honor roll.

Rudnik plays alto saxophone in the school band.

Balancing school and extra-curricular activities can be challenging sometimes, Rudnik said, but given the chance, he said he would go back in time and do more.

“They’re really good at getting people involved,” Rudnik said of the school district. “There’s so many options, so many things you can get involved with.”

Nine Yards

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Filing periods end for township elections

Two races to take place in Benton County

BY NATASHA BARBER | STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – Following the Jan. 12 deadline and subsequent withdrawal period, the ballots are known for the upcoming Benton County township elections March 10.

The Benton County Auditor-Treasurer’s office reports there will be two races in the county this winter – supervisor positions in Alberta and Granite Ledge townships.

In Alberta Township, former supervisor Mike Moulzolf did not file for reelection. Newcomers Mike Walcheski and Tim Winter will compete for the three-year supervisor term in the township which had just over 500 registered voters in November 2020. As of the 2010 Census, the township had 818 residents.

Treasurer Kevin Szafranski will run unopposed in that township for a two-year term.

In Granite Ledge Township, Fred Lentner will vie against incumbent Troy Lupke for a seat on the board of supervisors. Similar in size to Alberta, Granite Ledge had 743 residents as of the 2010 Census with just shy of 500 registered voters as of the last general election.

Treasurer Teresa Lentner, a household member of supervisor candidate Fred Lentner, will run unopposed in Granite Ledge.

The remaining 20 people are running unopposed for open seats as supervisors or treasurers.

Supervisors will serve three-year terms while treasurers will serve two years. Voters will be allowed to write in other candidates, but the below uncontested names will appear on the annual election ballot.

Gilmanton Township: Mark Hess, supervisor; Beth Kipka, treasurer.

Glendorado Township: Ted Fernholz, supervisor; Melissa Christensen, treasurer.

Graham Township: Jesse Sobania, supervisor; Michele Petron, treasurer.

Langola Township: Greg Bruestle, supervisor; Frank Hard, treasurer.

Mayhew Lake Township: Joe Scapanski, supervisor; Renee Thell, treasurer.

Maywood Township: David Dumonceaux, supervisor; Rosie Emslander, treasurer.

Minden Township: Stephen Simones, supervisor; Esther Ebnet, treasurer.

Sauk Rapids Township: Dan Zwick, supervisor; Becky Molitor, treasurer.

St. George Township: Brad Chmielewski, supervisor; Jeremy Johnson, treasurer.

Watab Township: Julie Johnson, supervisor; Deborah O’Keefe, treasurer.

PHOTOS BY ELLARRY PRENTICE

The build bar is set up for do-it-yourself enthusiasts to create a Lazy Susan at Nine Yards Jan. 13 in Sauk Rapids. Every month, Schultz will offer a new item for customers to create with step-by-step instructions and pre-assembly provided.

since 2017. Schultz named his business after the popular expression.

“At shows that I would have, I would try to explain what I’d have, and I’d say, ‘Well, I’ve got a little bit of everything; it’s the whole nine yards,’” he said.

Schultz is happy to have a permanent home for his handmade creations.

“I would drive around central Minnesota, set up a booth and sell everything I could over the weekend.

Whatever was left, I had to pack up and take home, and that gets kind of old pretty quick,” he said.

Schultz, who lives on the east side of St. Cloud and is from a small town, is thrilled that Nine Yards is located in Sauk Rapids.

“Every day, I would drive past and think ‘someday,’” he said of opening a store here.

He is also happy to offer a place for local makers to sell their wares.

“This is a nice outlet for people who are specific to one type of item or two,” he said.

His knack for making things by hand originated in his youth, when creative prospects were all around him.

“It didn’t matter where I was,” he said. “If I was at home, my dad was working in construction, so there were unlimited resources available there when he would bring home all the leftover things. Or, if we were at my grandma’s house. She refinished furniture for a living.”

With his dad’s tools and acquired ingenuity, Schultz spent a lot of time outdoors, building a tree house and envisioning ideas for items he could build with spare building materials or old furnishings that would otherwise be discarded.

“It was just all around, being creative and fixing things,” he said. “It’s always just been a part of life.”

As a kid, Schultz also built bookshelves and a nightstand for his bedroom.

His sister still has a nightstand he made for her when he was 11.

He carried that passion into adulthood, building stylish and thrifty furniture and home décor, including blanket ladders and side tables for family and friends and a play kitchen for his niece. He also learned to weld and began making items out of metal.

Schultz likes to

replicate things he sees while shopping, achieving the desired look but for less money.

“Just building it yourself makes it cheaper right off the bat,” he said.

He finds items to repurpose or refinish at auctions, garage sales and Facebook marketplace.

“As I see something, I think, ‘OK, this is what I can do with it,’” he said.

He also garners inspiration from the virtual discovery engine Pinterest.

Turning old, unwanted stuff into must-have housewares and furnishings is Schultz’s forte. He loves the feeling he gets when he gives a second life to an old dresser, for example.

“I’m a sucker for a before and after,” he said.

“I love taking something that’s absolutely hideous and making it a one-of-akind piece.”

Schultz said his product offerings will evolve over time. He will strive to offer curated collections and products stylish enough for his own house.

“I have a passion for wanting to try something new – learn a new tool or skill,” he said.

Schultz looks forward to getting to know regular customers and bringing in new styles of inventory on a regular basis.

“Stay tuned for more,” he said with a smile.

Sauk Rapids

LIQUOR Monday-Thursday 9am-10pm • Friday-Saturday 8am-10pm • Sunday 11am-6 pm

JANUARY

DEALS OF THE MONTH 3rd Street

Pabst Blue Ribbon

12 pk. cans

$

11

99

t ” Apothic Wine l y All Varieties • Excludes Apothic Fire plant bar offers a seed of the month that customers s The can plant in a pot of their choice Jan. 13 at Nine Yards in $ 99 ” Sauk Rapids. January’s seed is lavender.

750ml

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Sale Starts Monday, Jan. 18th - Sunday, Jan. 31st

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LIQUOR R

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Bacardi Rum

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Coors Light, Coors Banquet, ight Michelob Golden Light & Michelob Golden

24 pack cans

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | Page 3

from front

Several items for sale in Schultz’s store were made by Sauk Rapids residents, including coffee, soap and towels. Other Minnesota creations include table runners, pillow covers and potholders.

“Farmhouse décor is definitely in right now,” Schultz said.

Nine Yards also offers a build bar and plant station for do-it-yourself enthusiasts.

Every month, Schultz will offer a new item for customers to create, with D -step-by-step instructions and pre-assembly provided.

January’s project is building a Lazy Susan. Some eother project offerings at the build bar will be table trays, bathtub trays, blanmket ladders and centerpiece eboxes for the holidays.

The plant bar has a similar concept. Schultz offers a seed of the month gthat customers can plant in ra pot of their choice. Janusary’s seed is lavender.

Teeming with rustic ambiance, Nine Yards t had its grand opening the r second weekend in Janun dary. The store will be open sagain the weekend of Jan. s29-Jan. 31. He also plans dto be open the first and last sweekends in February.

By day, Schultz is a m fourth grade school teachker, but his creativity condtinues long after he leaves the classroom. In his home workshop, he creates furniiture and home décor, which ohe sold on a pop-up basis at hevents prior to opening the sstore.

Nine Yards has existed f

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1799

Canadian an Club Whisky sky 1.75 L

$

17999

Phillips ps Vodkaa $

11999

1.75 .75 L

Y O U R F U L L S E R V I C E L I Q U O R S TO R E « 312 B E N TO N D R I V E N. « 320-251-4185 251-4185

1099

Dazante Pinot Grigio and a Red Blend 750 ml

9

$ 99

OBITUARIES/NEWS

Page 4 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Benton County to issue mini grants

Donald A. Kainz

Projects must show sustainable change to healthy behavior

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2 Second Ave. S., Suite 135 Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 (320) 251-1971 Sauk Rapids Herald (USPS 21690) is published weekly, 52 times a year, by Star Publications, 2 2nd Ave S., Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379-1651. Second-class Postage paid at Sauk Rapids, MN 56379. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Sauk Rapids Herald, 2 2nd Ave S, Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379-1651.

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

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Sheet Metal & Heating, Inc.

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Benton County Public Health’s Statewide Health Improvement Partnership team is making strategy support funding or mini grants available to assist community organizations in implementing local strategies that will provide long-term sustainable changes to support the health and wellbeing of By Maria Schyma staff and community members. These strategies should be designed to improve opportunities for physical activity, healthy eating, breastfeeding and mental wellbeing while decreasing tobacco use and exposure. Community organizations can decide to focus on one particular healthy behavior area or across multiple areas.

Projects must focus on sustainable policy, system or environmental changes that support healthy behaviors.

Those changes include: – Policy: A change made through an ordinance, resolution, mandate, regulation, personnel policy or rule.

– System: Changes that impact all elements of an organization or institution.

– Environmental: Physical or material changes to the economic, social or physical environment.

– Sustainability: Projects must be sustainable financially and logistically. Is this a lasting change that needs no additional funding? If not, who will cover the on-going maintenance expenses? Will this project be embedded into the community organization so it remains after staffing changes or turnover?

Funding amounts will be up to $2,000 per community organization in Benton County.

In the past, organizations have used this mini grant funding to implement an environmental change by adding a hydration station or community garden at their location to support healthy eating. However, there are many other changes that community organizations can choose to work on. If you are interested in this funding opportunity or have any questions, reach out to Mariah Schyma, community health specialist, at 320-968-5250 or mschyma@co.benton.mn.us to learn more about eligibility requirements, ideas on what this funding can be used for and to receive an application.

Applications are due by 4:30 p.m. Feb. 22.

Mass of Christian Burial was 2 p.m. Jan. 22, at Annunciation Catholic Church in Mayhew Lake for Donald A. Kainz, age 80, of Rice and formerly of Harding who passed away Jan. 15, 2021, at his home. The Rev. Thomas Knoblach and the Rev. Eberhard Schefers will con-celebrate and burial was in the parish cemetery. Visitation was after noon Friday at the church. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Sauk Rapids.

Donald was born Feb. 18, 1940, in Little Falls to Clarence and Josephine (Zak) Kainz.

He graduated from Pierz Memorial High School and St. Cloud State University. Donald married Rita Bieganek Aug. 18, 1962, at

Donald A. Kainz

Holy Cross Catholic Church in their shared hometown of Harding.

They eventually settled near Rice and raised their children in a home they built on Little Rock Lake. As members of Annunciation Catholic Church in Mayhew Lake, they were active in choir, marriage preparation and numerous other parish roles. They spent over 40 years in leadership with Worldwide Marriage Encounter. In 1972, he co-founded Donlar

Shirley L. Bergeson Shirley L. Bergeson, 88, of Sauk Rapids and formerly Lake Park, died Jan. 9, 2021, at Good Shepherd Community in Sauk Rapids.

Shirley Lucille Johnson was born Aug. 5, 1932, in Pelican Rapids to Louis and Stella (Olson) Johnson.

She graduated from Lake Park High School in 1949. Shirley was united in marriage to Rudy Bergeson Aug. 11, 1952, in Detroit Lakes and they had two children, Roger and Amy. Shirley graduated from Moorhead State Teachers College in 1951, with an Associate in Education degree.

After attending college, she taught elementary school in Hitterdal for seven years and then in Dilworth for three years.

Rudy and Shirley lived in Moorhead but eventually

Shirley L. Bergeson

moved to Jamestown, North Dakota, where Shirley would teach for 25 years, retiring in 1997.

Shirley moved to St. Cloud in 2005.

Shirley was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Jamestown and Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Cloud.

She served in various capacities while at church including education, parish care and church council. She also served as Stutsman County Retired

Construction, that built many churches, schools and commercial spaces across Minnesota. He retired in 2016 and remained chairman of the board. Donald was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He served on several Diocesian committees and Catholic Charities Advisory Board. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing, cutting wood, driving the pontoon, trips to the casino and extensive traveling.

Donald was loving, loyal, full of wisdom, quiet but made an impact when he spoke. Don and Rita moved through life together as a couple.

He deeply loved his family, especially his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Rita of Rice; children, Joseph (Jenny) of Hong Kong, Jon (Marlene) of Lino Lakes,

Beth (John) Wegner of northeast Minneapolis and James (Kirsten) of Wilmington, North Carolina.; sister-in-law, Sue Kainz of Cottage Grove; grandchildren, Sabrina, Natalie, Jaq, Caleb, Rachel, Tyler, Ryan, Shannon, Nathan, Madeline (Davis) and Emma; and expecting their first great granddaughter soon. Donald was preceded in death by his parents; sister, JoAnne (Len) Carlson; and brother, Clarence “Buz” Kainz.

Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.

Obituary, guest book and livestreaming available online at www. williamsdingmann. com.

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Teachers president and member for several years.

Shirley was a lifelong learner and enjoyed many educational opportunities through Elderhostels and classes at Good Shepherd.

She loved living at Good Shepherd and was active in many activities including Remember When, writing class, choir and book club.

Throughout her life, she enjoyed circle and Bible study at church. She loved traveling, reading, writing letters, and she especially loved to make people laugh. Even to the very end, she amazed people with her humor and quick wit.

She is survived by her son, Roger (Cristine) Bergeson, Hopkins; daughter, Amy (Reid) Stedje, Sauk Rapids; granddaughters, Nicole (Colton) Molesky, Madison, Wisconsin, and Allison Stedje, River

Falls, Wisconsin; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Rudy; her brother, Dennis Johnson, and nephew, Burton Haugen.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation for the love and care Shirley received from the staff of Good Shepherd Assisted Living, Centra Care Home Health and Centra Care Hospice.

Also, a huge thank you to Dr. Kimberly Tjaden for spending countless hours listening and patiently guiding Shirley’s health care.

A celebration of life will be held on a later date. Please visit www. wrightfuneral.com to view a video tribute and share your memories in the online guest book.R-3-1B

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | Page 5

NEWS

Rice to begin negotiations for right of way Seeks to widen County Road 55 within city limits

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

RICE – The Rice City Council took one step toward safer pedestrian access and a potential walking trail to Bend in the River Regional Park Tuesday.

At its Jan. 19 meeting at Rice City Hall, the council gave its consensus for city engineers,

Moore Engineering Inc., to begin conversations to secure right of way on the west and east sides of County Road 55 from roughly Third Street Southwest to the city limit line.

Benton County plans to overlay County Road 55 and widen a portion of the roadway this summer.

Conversations of the land acquisition were delayed

because of miscommunication between the council and county engineer Chris Byrd. Additional clarification was sought over the last three months regarding what the city would be responsible for financially.

Similar to how the county has operated within city limits in Sauk Rapids with County Road 3 and in Sartell with County Road 29, the county will require the city to secure right of way for the land needed to widen the roadway.

Commissioners deny tax abatement request

Engineer Les Mattefy said the county wants the city to obtain 60 feet of right of way on the west side of the road and 75 feet on the east side, accounting for a future trail. He said the land acquisition could be about $60,000 combined.

Mayor Brian Skroch and council member Chris Scheel along with the engineers plan to meet with land owners before making any monetary offers for right of way.

What’s Happening Tuesday, Jan. 26, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 1-7 p.m. – American Red Cross Blood Drive. Joy Christian Center, 770 21st Ave. N.E., St. Cloud. Make an appointment by calling 1-800-733Monday, Jan. 25, 6 p.m. – Sauk 2767 or visiting redcrossblood.org.

Rapids City Council Meeting.

Sauk Rapids City Hall, 251 Summit Tuesday, Jan. 26, and Wednesday, Jan. 27, 5-9 p.m. – 55+ First Time Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Driver Improvement Course.

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Taught via online teleconference.

– American Red Cross Blood Register at mnsafetycenter.org.

Drive. Central Minnesota CouncilBoy Scouts, 1191 Scout Drive, Wednesday, Jan. 27, 6-7 p.m.

Sartell. Make an appointment by – Living Waters Food Shelf calling 1-800-733-2767 or visiting Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk redcrossblood.org.

Rapids.

Vaccine from front Sites began offering vaccinations Thursday; appointments for week one had filled Tuesday with the website peaking at 10,000 hits per second, according to state officials. Available appointments will again launch at noon Tuesday, Jan. 26.

School districts, charter schools, tribal schools and nonpublic school organizations will work directly with employees to secure an appointment through the state-sponsored pilot sites. Childcare programs will be randomly selected.

The number of doses available to Minnesotans pales in comparison to the number needed, Walz said. Due to a limited supply, the state recommends that school districts, charter schools, tribal schools and nonpublic school organizations prioritize their vaccine allotment, which is based on workforce population in a region.

“Not every Minnesotan can get the vaccine now, but we will

be ready to give a shot to everyone who needs one once we have more doses on hand,” said Jan Malcolm, commissioner for the Minnesota Department of Health.

The program will be a foundation for mass vaccination clinics in Minnesota as soon as the federal government increases vaccine supply, Walz said.

Along with Michigan and Wisconsin Govs. Gretchen Whitmer and Tony Evers, Walz sent a joint letter to the Trump administration calling for increased vaccine supply in what they called a “botched” distribution effort.

As of Monday evening, 200,840 Minnesotans received at least one vaccine dose, and 38,521 people completed their vaccine series. The state administered over 75,000 doses Jan. 10-16.

Of the 626,925 doses promised from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 479,575 have been shipped to Minnesota providers. Around 40.2% of all doses have been used.

In Benton County, 967 people had received their

Thursday, Jan. 28, 7:30 a.m. – Benton Economic Partnership Meeting. A presentations of 2020 projects and initiatives and guest speaker Claudia Dumont, Minnesota Department of Transportation District 3 on state construction projects in Benton County. This virtual meeting is open to non-members and is free to attend.

Registration required by emailing bentoneconomicpartnership@gmail. org or clicking on the calendar item at www.bentoneconomicpartnership. org/events.

Friday, Jan. 29, 11 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Food Shelf Dispersal. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

In Benton County, 967 people had received their first vaccination by Jan. 17, with 203 people having completed the inoculation series. The county is home to over 40,000. first vaccination by Jan. 17, with 203 people having completed the inoculation series. The county is home to over 40,000 people.

Minnesotans can find more vaccine information on the state’s COVID-19 response website mn.gov/ covid19/vaccine/index. jsp. Additional details on the second group of the first phase of vaccine distribution will be available as soon as the federal government makes critical decisions about distribution, the press release said.

The CentraCare Health system is not involved in the MDH community vaccination clinics and released a statement Wednesday that the healthcare system does not have supply to vaccinate on a larger scale. CentraCare

is focusing its vaccines on health care workers and targeted priority groups who are most at risk, the release said.

CentraCare is not hosting general public clinics at this time, nor do they have a waiting list or option to pay for early access.

Neither CentraCare nor the state are allowing walk-in vaccinations.

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Saturday, Jan. 23, 7-9 p.m. – Catholic Charities Mardi Gras Celebration. Virtual and free event.

Live music, silent auction and Fund a Need campaign. Register at ccstcloud.org. Silent auction opens at noon, Wednesday, Jan. 20. Benefitting Catholic Charities Emergency Services and Domus Transitional Housing.

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Development department reports quality year

BY JAKOB KOUNKEL | STAFF WRITER

FOLEY – Benton County commissioners denied a tax abatement request from Cove Development Company, which owes the county over $90,000 in unpaid taxes, and heard a yearend report from Roxanne Achman, department of development director, at its Jan. 19 meeting in Foley.

After quickly moving to approve the consent agenda, deputy auditor Heather Bondhus filled in for auditor-treasurer Nadean Inman to update the board on a request for tax abatement on late fees made by Cove Development Company.

The development company is behind on tax payments to the county, totaling $94,732. The company’s owner made a request to abate the late payments on 26 lots; taxes owed on those lots total nearly $50,000 – $38,500 for property taxes and $11,300 in late fees.

Although commissioners prodded Bondhus to find a way the board can step in, the deputy auditor referred them to state statute that disallows tax abatements if property taxes not currently paid.

“This is really out of our hands,” said Commissioner Steve Heinen, echoing Commissioner Ed Popp’s comments. “It’s out of our control because of statute.”

Commissioners also heard a report that details the Benton County Department of Development activity in 2020. Achman said everything except agricultural building permits increased, marking a good construction year for Benton County.

The average price of constructing a home increased in Benton County considerably, Achman said. Newly constructed homes in 2020 cost, on average, $301,826 compared to $264,700 the year prior.

In other board news: – Heinen asked Benton County Human Services Director Bob Cornelius about vaccine distribution in the county. Cornelius said they have not been getting as much supply as needed to keep up with demand. While the county is moving quickly, offering a vaccine clinic every week to those eligible, he said they need more doses to vaccinate more frequently.

Commissioner Jared Gapinski, a member of the Sauk Rapids Fire Department, mentioned he received his first dose of the vaccination and has not had any side effects.

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EDITORIAL

Page 6 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Interesting things about plants Plants have various mechanisms that enable them to grow.

This column contains excerpts from a fascinating and informative book, “How Plants Work” by Linda Chalker-Scott, an associate professor GREEN AND and extension urban GROWING IN BENTON COUNTY horticulturist at Washington State Univer- BY LINDA G. TENNESON sity.

Plants have scents to attract pollinators, birds, bees and other animals who may accidentally pick up pollen and move it to another flower.

Where we use color to tell which plants are ripe and which are not ready for eating, pollinators may see colors our eyes cannot perceive and are attracted to specific plants as a result. Plants have hormones which work differently from the hormones found in mammals and control how they grow. When those hormones go out of control, we may see unusual growths. Think of an area of thick growth on a tree, often called a witches’ broom. Ethylene gas, which emitted from one fruit like a banana, will help a green tomato ripen quickly. However, ethylene gas is also produced by the roots of overwatered plants and causes the lower leaves to turn yellow and drop off.

Water moves upward in plants because an area without water attracts water. Think of how a paper towel quickly absorbs water when used to clean up a mess. Water moves up from the soil to the roots and into the leaves, eventually leaving the plant through stomata. These are openings on the underside of leaves and needles that let moisture, oxygen and carbon dioxide move in and out of the plant. When the plant is well watered, cells in the sides of the stomata open and let the air and moisture flow. However, when the plant is short of water, those openings close to preserve moisture and keep it in the plant. Think of evergreens that show brown needles after a warm spell occurs in mid-winter. The needles died because the warm spell tricked the plant into thinking that spring had arrived, and the stomata opened. When the temperature suddenly went down, the stomata did not close quickly enough, and moisture was lost which caused those needles to dry out and die. This movement of water called transpiration is important because the water carries minerals and other nutrients to all parts of the plants.

Young plants may have a long center root called a tap root. However mature plants have many roots which spread out in all directions and grow out much farther than previously thought.

Trees have roots that extend farther out than the drip line or widest part of the leaves and branches. Root systems are found in the top 1-2 feet of soil because roots need oxygen. There is less oxygen in deep or compressed soil than is found in the upper layers. Trees and plants that are planted too deeply have roots that cannot find enough oxygen, and the plant may semistarve as a result. Think of trees that have been planted but do not grow. Digging them up and replanting them at a higher level may help the roots obtain oxygen from the soil. And those fine white threads that can be seen when digging in the soil are mycorrhizal fungi. They are beneficial fungi, helping the roots absorb water and nutrients. In return, the plant gives the plants some carbohydrates and vitamins that the fungi cannot make for itself. More from this book in subsequent columns.

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

A traveler’s guide Jan. 20 was a relief because I found my Let’s make sure we are all digging in to passport. I need to renew my driver’s license our Bibles more fervently today than ever. which expired and was delayed from being What are we placing our identity in? Is it renewed three times because of coronavirus justice? Is it an all-inclusive, loving supportrestrictions. Now, I need another form of a er of individuals’ choices? Or, is it a love of photo ID in order to prove my identity. So, for all that does not rejoice in evil? If you are an entire month, I’ve turned the house upside celebrating with those individuals who are down looking for it. On Jan. 20, I found it. making choices against God’s design, then Whew. it is not love because love cannot rejoice in This got me thinking of our culture today evil. Who am I to say what is God’s design LIFE BY FAITH and our identity. I know I’m not illegal, but I or not his design? I am a child of God, but have to prove my identity to obtain official, BY MERCY NYGAARD God’s word is my authority, and so I dig identity documents. But, every one of us need into it and search out his design for man and to prove our identity to ourselves and quickly. woman, for family and the church. Our created design I am a child of God. My identity is in Jesus. The reflects God’s image. When we operate in his design, we more discussions I have with others who have Biblical glorify him, which is our created purpose (Isaiah 43:7). or world views, the more I’ve noticed something dif- When we see all that Jesus paid to redeem us and restore ferent. In the past, in my immaturity, I was more self- us to God and proclaim Jesus as Lord of every single focused and bent on talking louder to prove my point. square inch of our lives, we get to feel the manner of I would go back and forth with others for a long time. love the father has given unto us to be called the sons of But now, humbled by life experience and more filled God (1 John 3). with care and concern for others, it’s not my opinion I The weary world is hungry for the truth. Study up desire to shout, it’s God’s truth I desire to proclaim. As on the one-another commands of scripture. These are a I’ve been speaking more of the scriptures and truth in series of commands for how the image-bearers of God love, the difference I’ve noticed is that I get a friendly are to treat our fellow image bearers. Those who profess last statement, “I agree,” or “That’s great,” or, even more to know God, but in works they deny him, being abomicommon, silence. Nobody wants to rebut what has been nable, disobedient and disqualified for every good work, made plain in God’s word. What I am finding the most are going to be the most challenging to love, but love effective is simply stating God’s truth. It’s the manner of them we must. Praying for a heart of flesh for the stubproclaiming God’s truths with humility, in love, that is born, hardened heart, for those who deceive themselves so effective. Meekness, gentleness, bearing, longsuffer- by hearing the word only and not doing what it says must ing and kindness should be our demeaner and others will be our petition in the short time we have left. Do this have nothing bad to say about us, and if they do, they are while gathering around the table, putting our own houses ashamed (1 Peter 3:16). in order, making God the center of our discussions and Here is my greatest turmoil, however. When the songs, and making room for others at the table. People conversation abruptly ends, when the opposing view of are hungry for an invitation to your home in Jesus’ name. whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable Jan. 20 is a day that will go down in history. A day does not have anything to refute in God’s word, they do that I am reminded to spur one another on in cementing not wish to further discuss how to gain perfect peace that their identity in Jesus and not to a political party. One passes understanding through Jesus. The conversation gives life, another gives false hope. Find your passports ends, and I am left praying for them but never knowing friends. We are traveling through this world for a better if they simply shut off their ears to God’s word or dug one. As far as your witness reaches, make sure no one into it on their own. gets left behind.

Letter to the Editor

Confused, concerned Barb Kameo, Sauk Rapids I am now confused and concerned.

Wikipedia: Impeachment refers to a previous step, that of the authority’s indictment; a U.S. president impeached by the House of Representatives with charges.

An official who is impeached faces a second legislative vote by the Senate, which determines conviction or failure to convict on the charges embodied by the impeachment. The first impeachment, Nancy Pelosi and democrats charged President Trump with a fake crime, Schiff lied and the evidence did not support the impeachment.

The Senate determined no conviction, a not guilty charge.

As the democrats promote: Trump, first president of the United States impeached twice? Not really. Pelosi wanted Trump out; she failed. I was not sure what impeachment was so I looked it up and thought I would share.

Example: A person can be charged with a crime by a deceitful person, it is heard with evidence, and the person is found innocent. He is innocent.

Pelosi has done this again; her hate is desperate.

The House vote got a slight majority and impeachment charges have been sent to the Senate. As Democrats have not damaged President Trump’s reputation or name enough, they need to focus on keeping Trump out of office. It will also be a new Constitutional dilemma, impeaching a president of the United States who is a private citizen by the time it is heard?

Pelosi has been a representative for 17 years in San Francisco. Can she claim one good thing that she has done for her citizens? She had 600 residents die from

drug abuse and 150 die from COVID-19. Why do voters keep electing her, paying her? Or, is it fraud? I hear she is doing well, though, as she has spent the last five years attacking Trump.

Biden’s agenda: To undo all the accomplishments of Trump. Most of his changes will be detrimental to U.S. citizens and our economy. This radical left ideology is not new to our citizens, who live in those Democrat states and are leaving those states in droves. We just pray they do not bring those socialist ideals with them to more conservative states. We do not want them. Also is Biden’s plan to re-instate the penalty to those who do not have health insurance an unconstitutional change?

Trump and the courts decided it was not constitutional. The federal government does have a limit on their powers. Or will this Democratic administration also be above the law?

In Minnesota, Gov. Tim Walz wants to make America California. But, even voters in California are trying to recall Newsom and are leaving the state in droves.

High taxes, high crime, stifling regulations; criminals and undocumented are welcome. So many thousands are invading our southern border due to the messaging of Biden already. They do commit crimes. In California, certain crimes do not get jail time; no bail and they are back on the street with more experience.

Has Newsom even tried to mitigate the wildfires by allowing the federal forestry to come in and properly manage forests? NBCNews in 2020: 8,200 fires have burned well over 4 million acres, not mentioning the loss of property, homes and lives. Has Newsom decreased the green energy mandates from their state electrical provider where some old equipment has caused fires? I would want him out also as it is not working for citizens.

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EDITORIAL

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | Page 7

Challenges lead to answered prayer Two weeks ago, I visited the oldest of A few other challenges I selected from my two brothers, who I had not seen in a the list: year.

– Complete a do-it-yourself project The timing of that emotional visit was you have been putting off. interesting. I had just written about a ComAfter many months of work, Expresmunity Education outreach that is challengsions by El, a greeting card line I created in ing residents to complete activities from an memory of my dad, is complete (well, until extensive list as they move along a Sauk I make more cards). I received prints of the Rapids-Rice inspired map. final three designs last week.

When I headed out on the morning of There are 50 cards in the collection Jan. 9, I didn’t know I would complete two EXPRESSIONS BY EL for occasions such as birthdays, anniversaactivities from that list at one time: Spend BY ELLARRY PRENTICE ries, weddings, births, and bridal and baby time with someone you love and look at showers. I also wrote and designed sympafamily photos. thy cards, thank you cards and cards that offer support Sixteen years my senior, my brother has battled al- for people going through tough times. coholism for more than 20 years. Excessive drinking has Cards will soon be available to purchase locally, and damaged his body to the point he almost died – twice, 100% of the proceeds will support an upcoming mission spending weeks in the intensive care unit. A few years trip with my ministry team, Beauty for Ashes. (The trip ago, after hearing he was in an ambulance and first re- date is unknown due to COVID-19.) We will be helping sponders doubted he would make it to the hospital alive, women who are victims of domestic violence. all I could picture was a rusty old Chevy and being little – Make cookies from scratch. again.

Baking is a love that was passed down to me from In the late 1980s and early 1990s, he took me every- my parents and both my grandmothers. In his 50s, my where with him. dad learned to bake and was quite good at it. I was really “He was so proud of his baby sister; he had to show you missing him over the holidays, so I decided to make his off to everyone,” my mom always says. chocolate chip cookies.

The drinking worsened after we lost our dad in May – Listen to music.

2019. But we’d already felt the brunt of his illness. Dad This one was easy. I listen to music every day. On carried that burden, and the heartache that comes with it, Sundays, I like to listen to classic country music. It was to his grave. tradition growing up. I always feel like I am back home Alcoholics don’t damage just their organs. Their on the farm or in my dad’s gravel pit and Mack truck hurtful words and behavior damage their families too. when I hear tunes by John Anderson. Dad used to sing My first husband was an alcoholic, so I’d walked Anderson’s 1983 hit “Swingin’” and Hank Williams’ the long road to forgiveness before. Through that expe- “Hey Good Lookin’” to me when I was young. rience, and my subsequent work at an outpatient treat– Read a children’s book. ment center, I learned firsthand how powerless over alOne of my favorite things to do is snuggle with my cohol they become. Through my brother’s experience, I two youngest nieces, ages 2 and 5, and read to them. learned that treatment doesn’t always work the first time, They love books. One of the books we read recently was and that alcoholics have to want to stop drinking in order from the Llama Llama series by Anna Dewdney. to achieve sobriety.

No one can do it for them.

I wrote a children’s book last summer, and the manAs angry and hurt as I’ve been in the past, nothing uscript is now in the hands of an illustrator. I hope to can change the love in my heart for a big brother I af- release it this year and look forward to reading it to kids. fectionately called “Osh” before I could pronounce the Community Education staff have created a list of 64 letter J. activities for participants to choose from as they move Two weeks ago, I passed his gravel road on my way along a Sauk Rapids-Rice-inspired paper map, or game to a baby shower at my other brother’s house. I had time board. After completing a selected activity from the list, to kill, so I threw the car in reverse. participants mark the associated number of spaces on He wasn’t expecting me, but my heart told me to their map. Each activity moves participants as many as knock anyway. six spaces and as few as two spaces toward the finish When I walked inside, a bottle was beside him. Wa- line. There are 55 spaces on the board. ter.

Activities range from ordering take-out from a local I didn’t smell alcohol, and Miller Lite wasn’t in its restaurant to good deeds to making funny faces in the usual spots. I thought twice about it before deciding not mirror. to bring it up.

Printable maps and instructions are available at the He appeared to be completely sober. I haven’t seen Community Education office, 901 First St. S., Sauk Raphim sober since … I don’t remember when.

Ten ids, and at the main office of Rice Elementary School, years, probably.

200 N.E. Third Ave. A link to print the map from home We talked for an hour, mostly about Dad and how is on the Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Education Facedifferent life is now. He retrieved some photos of Dad in book page. The map and instructions can also be achis youth that he recently acquired from our uncle. I was cessed by typing http://bit.ly/SRRCommChallengeMap late to the baby shower. in an internet browser.

“He’s been sober a good nine, 10 months now,” a Bring completed maps to the Community Education family member told me. office or Rice Elementary by Wednesday, Jan. 27.

On my drive home, I tearfully remembered what I’d Names of participants who turned in completed done the summer after Dad died, when I was living in maps will be drawn Jan. 28, and gift card winners will our childhood home. My brother came over, reeking of be contacted shortly thereafter. Businesses donating gift alcohol, one Saturday morning to mow the lawn. From cards are Benton Station, Danny’s Dugout, Dutch Maid inside the house, I watched him get off the mower and Bakery, Jimmy’s Pour House, O’Brien’s Pub, Old Capistand solemnly over Dad’s grave, which is on a hill over- tal Tavern, Old Creamery Café, Manea’s Meats, Mixin’ looking the farm.

It Up and Rock Creek Coffeehouse.

That night, I dropped to my knees and prayed. I asked God to save him.

Letter to the Editor

Mishandled civil disturbances James A. Hovda, former Minneapolis police officer of Rice As a former resident of Minneapolis, I am writing to express the extreme frustration I have over the total bungling of the senior law enforcement and their political bosses about the mishandling of civil disturbances in Minneapolis and Washington, D.C. None of the disturbances were a surprise. Easy to predict. Not difficult to estimate the severity. It has happened before. A number of folks were fired or took retirement at the federal level. Finally, some planning that should have been done in the first place.

I strongly suspect some of the law enforcement folks

asked for but were refused help. They were cannon fodder. The troops on the front lines suffered. At least one officer was killed.

And, regarding Minneapolis, let’s not forget the Hennepin County Sheriff Dave Hutchinson. He had the authority, as chief law enforcement officer in Hennepin County, to request the services of the Minnesota National Guard. Where was he? No politicians for him to report to. The good citizens of Minneapolis allowed their elected officials to turn their first-class city into a third-class city. They got what they voted for. I hope our area law enforcement will step up to the plate when and if needed. I am confident they will. I am glad I live in Rice.

A look at highlights to start the 2021 session It is good the 2021 session is underway so legislators may formally address numerous challenges facing our state.

Here is a look at some of the latest news and notes from the House: COVID-19 vaccination pilot site in St. Cloud STRAIGHT FROM A COVID-19 vaccine THE CAPITOL pilot program has been SHANE MEKELAND launched in Minnesota, BY REP. MN HOUSE 15B including a St. Cloud site.

The pilot sites will initially serve adults aged 65 and older, pre-kindergarten through grade 12 teachers and school staff, and staff working at licensed and certified childcare programs. Minnesotans 65 and older can schedule an appointment by calling 612-426-7230 or 833-4312053 or by visiting mn.gov/vaccine. School districts will select pilot program participants, and childcare providers will be randomly selected and notified to secure an appointment.

COVID-19 vaccine online dashboard Minnesotans have been expressing concerns about the lack of information on the slow progress of our state’s application of COVID-19 vaccinations.

A website, mn.gov/covid19/vaccine/data, has been launched that provides relatively timely information on vaccinations across Minnesota so people, for any number of reasons, can track vaccination data. The dashboard includes information on the number of doses allocated to the state by the federal government; shipped to Minnesota providers; and ultimately administered to Minnesotans.

California auto standards in Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is pushing to mandate California car standards in our state, and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency intends to adopt these regulations via the administrative rulemaking process. The MPCA recently conducted its first public information session regarding the mandate.

This is another example of circumventing the Legislature to advance an agenda. This initiative would lead to higher costs (reportedly by at least $1,000 per vehicle) and fewer choices for Minnesotans.

Mandating more electric vehicles means fewer vehicles that Minnesotans demand (trucks and SUV’s) available on dealer lots. By following California’s auto standards, we will be the only state in the Midwest subject to bureaucrats 1,700 miles away. And, if the MPCA turns over our state’s car regulations to California, what is to stop them from doing the same with big rigs, boats, lawnmowers, snow blowers or anything else with cylinders that California regulates?

Emergency powers At this point, there is enough science and data to support ending the governor’s emergency powers and return to the representative system of government our Constitution provides. We have had one- to two-weeks’ advance notice on the governor’s executive orders for the last several months. These are not emergency responses, rather planned rollouts. Minnesotans deserve to have their voices heard at the Capitol with their legislators involved in a collaborative decisionmaking process.

Penalties for crimes against law enforcement Under current law, a person found guilty of murder of a peace officer, prosecutor, judge or correctional officer is sentenced to life in prison without release. The penalty for attempted murder of a peace officer is a maximum of 20 years with the offender becoming eligible for conditional release after serving two-thirds of the sentence – or just more than 13 years.

A bill has been authored in the House to stiffen these penalties to better protect law enforcement in our state. The proposal would require an offender to be sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of release after 30 years for the attempted murder of a peace officer, prosecutor, judge or correctional officer. There would be no early release nor would the offender be automatically released after serving a sentence of 30 years. The Commissioner of Corrections could grant a release after a minimum of 30 years in prison after hearing from the victims and prosecutors.

PUBLIC NOTICES/NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | Page 9

Police Activity Report Jan. 11-17 Sauk Rapids Police Department Incidents: Administrative citations (winter parking) 36, medical calls 21, human services report 15, suspicious activity reports 15, miscellaneous calls 14, permit to purchase applications 14, assists 11, welfare checks 11, thefts 9, warnings 9, animal calls 7, child calls 5, driving reports 5, domestic calls 5, traffic stops 5, disturbances 4, traffic hazards 4, property calls 3, traffic accidents 3, 911 calls 2, burglaries 2, civil complaints 2, DUIs/DWIs 2, extra patrols 2, fraud complaints 2, Jan. 13, 2:03 a.m. – While on patrol, an officer ob- repossession of vehicles 2, unwanted persons 2 and veserved a vehicle circling a block where a vehicle theft hicle reports 2. recovery had occurred. Officer observed the passenger brake light was not working property and initiated a Rice Police Department traffic stop. The male driver did not comment on why he was circling the block but reported to have dropped Jan. 14, 2:47 p.m. – A employee of Shady’s Railside a friend off in the area. Driver had a pistol within reach reported an individual was dumping trash in the dumpnear his leg but advised he had a permit for the fire- ster. The business did not want to press charges at this arm. The driver was identified and the permit to carry time but wanted the dumping to cease. Officer received confirmed and current. Driver was verbally warned and the individual’s name and address from a box found in released. the dumpster and made contact with the person who said the trash would be removed.

Jan. 13, 11:33 p.m. – Officers responded to the 300 Incidents: Miscellaneous calls 5, records checks 5, block of Seventh Street South, Sauk Rapids, for a re- agency assists 4, suspicious activity reports 3 and perport of a person who had overdosed and was having mits 2. difficulty breathing. Officers arrived and administered a dose of Narcan. Officers began providing supplemental oxygen to the patient. A second dose of Narcan was Public Notice given. The patient began to wake up and was transPUBLIC NOTICE ported by paramedics to the hospital.

Jan. 12, 7:08 p.m. – Officers responded to Sok’s Rapid Car Wash at 954 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids, because people were completing car maintenance and mechanical work inside one of the wash bays. Officers arrived and identified the individuals. The people agreed to put the vehicle back together and go elsewhere.

Public Notice SECTION 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS SAUK RAPIDS-RICE HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOM LIGHTING UPGRADES 1835 OSAUKA ROAD NORTHEAST SAUK RAPIDS, MN 56379 Independent School District #47 will receive single prime sealed bids for Sauk Rapids-Rice High School Classroom Lighting Upgrades until 2:00pm local time on February 2, 2021 at the ISD #47 District Office, 1833 Osauka Road Northeast, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, 56379, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Please enter through Door #2.

Bidding documents, including the Proposal Form, Drawings and Specifications, will be on file at the Minnesota Builders Exchange; McGraw Hill Construction/Dodge Plan Center; Reed Construction; iSqFt Plan Room (St. Paul, MN), The Blue Book Building and Construction Network; from PlanWell at https://order.e-arc.com/arcEOC/Secures/PWELL_PrivateList.aspx?PrjType=pub, and St. Cloud Builders Exchange.

This project includes: Lighting and control replacement in classroom pods. This work can begin after award of project and work can be performed during non-student hours (before/ after school hours, no-student dates, etc).

American Reprographics Company, 4730 Park Glen Road, St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55416 (952) 697-8800, facsimile (952) 697-8803 will provide complete downloadable sets of the Bidding Documents to prospective bidders and subcontractors. The downloads will be available around January 12, 2021. A deposit check in the amount of $25 made out to ARC for each set downloaded via the internet at https:// www.e-arc.com/location/st-louis-park/ and clicking on the PlanWell icon, then the Public Plan Room icon, select Sauk Rapids-Rice Lighting Upgrades.

Make proposals on the bid forms supplied in the Project Manual. No oral, telegraphic or telephonic proposals or modifications will be considered. Submit with each bid, a certified check or acceptable bidder’s bond payable to Independent School District #47 in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the total bid. The successful bidder will be required to furnish satisfactory Labor and Material Payment Bond, and Performance Bond.

Bids may not be withdrawn within thirty (30) days after the scheduled time of opening bids, without the consent of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to accept any bid or to reject any or all bids, or parts of such bids, and waive informalities or irregularities in bidding.

Please note a pre-bid walkthrough will occur at 4:30pm on Monday, January 25 2021. Please meet at Door #2, 1833 Osauka Road Northeast, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, 56379.

The Owner requires Substantial Completion of the project on or before June 30, 2021.

Board of Education INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT #47 R-2-2B

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BREAK CROSSWORD

Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) proposes to build a 123-foot-overall Monopole Communications Tower.

Anticipated lighting application is medium intensity dual red/white strobes. The Site location is 4850 Quail Road NE, Sauk Rapids, Benton County, MN, 56379, Lat: 45-34-56.25, Long: -94-3-42.7. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Antenna Structure Registration (ASR, Form 854) filing number is A1146720.

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS – Interested persons may review the application (www.fcc.gov/asr/applications) by entering the filing number. Environmental concerns may be raised by filing a Request for Environmental Review (www.fcc.gov/asr/environmentalrequest) and online filings are strongly encouraged. The mailing address to file a paper copy is: FCC Requests for Environmental Review, Attn: Ramon Williams, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554.

R-3-1P

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Benton County Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on February 2nd, 2021 in the Commissioner’s Room, Benton County Government Center, Foley, at approximately 9:00 a.m. to hear the following: JANNEW Properties requesting approval of a six-lot final plat entitled “Pearls Addition” in the R-2 Residential District.

Pursuant to Section 10. The affected property is described as follows: That part of the NW1/4 lying Northeasterly of the Burlington Northern Railroad, Section 15, Watab Township. *Effective immediately, the Benton County Board may conduct its regular, special or emergency meetings by telephone or other electronic means, as permitted by MN Statutes §13D.021. Some or all Board members may participate by telephone or other electronic means until further notice. At least one member of the County or the County Administrator will be present during meetings at the County Board’s regular meeting location, which is the County Board Room in Foley, unless otherwise noted on meeting notices. Pursuant to MN Statutes §13D.021, Subdivision 3, the County will provide the means for persons to electronically monitor such meetings remotely.

To conform to MDH and CDC guidelines to minimize gatherings we are requesting public comment in written form prior to the County Board meeting; 1. You may submit written testimony, which must be received by 3pm February 1st, in one of two ways: a. Email Roxanne Achman at Roxanne.Achman@ co.benton.mn.us b. Mail comments to the Benton County Department of Development, Attn: Roxanne Achman, 531 Dewey St, PO Box 129, Foley, MN 56329.

2. If you wish to make in-person comments during the public hearing, the Board room capacity may be limited to maintain social distancing standards. Anyone who physically attends the hearing will be required to follow social distancing while waiting in the hallway and will be allowed to enter the Board room one at a time to testify during their chosen hearing.

Please limit your testimony and if possible, have one person testify if your for a group shares the same concerns.

3. You may attend the meeting remotely by following the instructions below. a. The public can join the meeting from their computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/834170141 b. You can also dial in using your phone.

Phone #: 1 (571) 317-3122 Access Code: 834-170-141 c. New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting. com/install/834170141 FR-3-1B

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Page 10 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 5, 2021 The Benton County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on January 5, 2021 in the Benton County Board Room in Foley, MN with Commissioners Steve Heinen, Ed Popp, Jared Gapinski, Beth Schlangen and Scott Johnson present. Call to order by Administrator Monty Headley was at 9:00 AM followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.

Heinen nominated Popp for 2021 Chair of the Board.

Second by Johnson. Nominations were closed and a unanimous ballot was cast for Popp for Board Chair for 2021.

Chair Popp called for nominations for 2021 Board ViceChair. Gapinski nominated Heinen for 2021 Vice-Chair of the Board. Second by Johnson. Nominations were closed and a unanimous ballot cast for Heinen for Board ViceChair for 2021.

Johnson/Heinen unanimous to approve the agenda as written.

No one was present to speak under Open Forum.

Headley explained that the draft listing of 2021 County Board meeting dates and times reflects the traditional meeting dates of “first and third” Tuesday of each month at 9:00 AM; December meeting dates were left blank pending Board discussion regarding possible conflicts with the AMC Annual Conference and a date for the Truth in Taxation public meeting. Following discussion, Johnson/Heinen unanimous to set 2021 County Board meeting dates and times: “first and third” Tuesday of each month at 9:00 AM with the exception of December—December meetings will be December 14th at 6:00 PM (to combine with the Truth in Taxation meeting) and December 28th at 9:00 AM. Gapinski/Schlangen unanimous to approve the Consent Agenda: 1) approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of December 15, 2020 as written; 2) approve the Special Meeting Minutes of December 15, 2020 as written; 3) approve the Special Meeting Minutes of December 16, 2020 as written; 4) accept and file Committee of the Whole Minutes of December 14, 2020 as written; 5) set the 2021 per diem rate for Boards and Commissions at $60.00; 6) adopt Resolution 2021-#1, a resolution to use an alternative method to disseminate bids and requests for proposals, and authorize the Chair to sign; 7) approve 2021 tobacco license applications—Adam’s Tobacco Shop; 8) adopt Resolution 2021-#2, approving Application for Minnesota Lawful Gambling Premises Permit and Lease for Lawful Gambling Activity for Minnesota Fishing Museum at Mini Mart #4 (2379 Pine Road NW, Rice) and Resolution 2021#3, approving Application for Minnesota Lawful Gambling Premises Permit and Lease for Lawful Gambling Activity for Minnesota Fishing Museum at Mini Mart #10 (1490 – 110th Street NW, Rice), and authorize the Chair to sign; and 9) approve appointments/reappointments to the Board of Adjustment (Roy Schneider), Planning Commission (Mary Jo Holewa, Warren Peschl, Jr.) and Solid Waste Advisory Committee (Steve Pallansch).

Headley explained that the Benton Economic Partnership has agreed to administer the $807,085 in state funding for grants to businesses and non-profits in Benton County that have suffered adverse economic consequences from the COVID pandemic and related Executive Orders. He noted that the state appropriation allows the County to retain up to 2.5% of the appropriation for grant administration costs ($19,685) to cover its staff time to manage the grant program. Headley stated that the draft agreement provides that any grant recommendations must be made to allow the County Board to adopt those recommendations

by March 15, 2021; disbursements of grant funds must occur by April 1, 2021.

Schlangen/Heinen unanimous to approve the agreement with the Benton Economic Partnership to manage a State-funded pandemic assistance grant program, and authorize the Chair to sign.

Headley presented a draft listing of suggested parameters from the Benton Economic Partnership for reviewing and recommending grant awards in conjunction with the State-funded pandemic assistance grant program which the Benton Economic Partnership will administer. Amanda Othoudt, Executive Director of the BEP, reviewed the two tiers of applicants for which the 2021 business relief fund grants will initially be issued; after BEP has processed all applications for Tier 1 and Tier 2 businesses, they may issue supplemental awards to those businesses if funds remain after the initial round of grants. Othoudt detailed the eligible/ineligible businesses under Tier 1 (Immediate Relief for Businesses Closed by Executive Order 20-99) and Tier 2 (Relief for Businesses and Nonprofits Not Receiving Awards from the State), as well as the application process.

She pointed out that eligible Tier 1 businesses/veteran service organizations may receive a one-time grant of up to $10,000 based on demonstrated need and for use on eligible expenses; eligible Tier 2 businesses/nonprofits, other than sole proprietorships, may receive a one-time grant of up to $10,000 (sole proprietorships may receive a one-time grant of up to $5,000). Board members asked questions regarding auditing of the awarded funds and documentation retention. Heinen/Gapinski unanimous to adopt Benton County’s State-Funded Business Assistance Grant Policy.

Nadean Inman, Auditor-Treasurer, reported on the two newspaper bids that were received (Benton County News and Sauk Rapids Herald) for publication of the official proceedings of the County Board and other publications as required. She noted the rates included in the bids (the legal rate will increase 2% for 2021 as it has not been raised since January 1, 2019), along with a combined rate for

PUBLIC NOTICES

publishing in both papers (continuation of a 30% discount on ads and legal notices). Johnson/Gapinski unanimous to designate the Benton County News and Sauk Rapids Herald as the official newspapers for Benton County for 2021.

Gapinski/Heinen unanimous to re-designate the Auditor-Treasurer the authority to designate depository banks.

Heinen/Johnson unanimous to adopt Resolution 2021-#4, designating depository banks for Benton County, and authorize the Chair to sign. Johnson requested that Inman provide Board members with the fund balances in the various funds. Gapinski inquired of the possibility of reducing the number of depository banks. Inman stated her willingness to provide the Board with the fund balances as requested; she will also research the idea of reducing the number of depository banks.

Roxanne Achman, Department of Development Director, explained that, in June 2019, Benton County approved the plat of St. George Corners South as part of a cluster development of three lots in St. George Township.

She stated that the owners of the property, Douglas and Lori Lezer, now desire to vacate the plat with the exception of the dedicated right-of-way; all lots within the plat are owned by the Lezer’s. Achman noted that the vacation of a plat occurs through a court process; the county is named as an interested party in the vacation proceedings due to the dedicated right-of-way. She indicated that a resolution has been drafted by the Lezer’s attorney, stating that the County does not object to vacating the lots and that the county would keep the right-of-way; the resolution and documents retaining the right-of-way have been reviewed by the County Attorney’s Office and the County Surveyor.

Doug Lezer (5864 – 75th Avenue NE, Sauk Rapids) appeared before the Board, stating his desire to vacate the plat of St. George Corners South, due to feedback he has received that the lots are too small. Schlangen inquired of the underlying use of the land; Lezer stated the land would revert back to agricultural. Schlangen/Gapinski to adopt Resolution 2021-#5, Benton County Resolution to Consent to Plat Vacation, and authorize the Chair to sign. Motion carried with Schlangen, Gapinski, Popp and Heinen voting aye and Johnson abstaining from the vote.

The Regular County Board meeting was recessed at 9:42 AM to conduct a Human Services Board meeting.

The Regular County Board meeting was reconvened at 9:47 AM. Headley announced that the County may be eligible for federal Transportation Alternatives Project (TAP) funding to construct a separated bicycle and pedestrian trail linking the City of Rice and the County’s Bend in the River Park along County Road 55. He stated that the estimated cost of this project is $165,000; TAP grants require a 20% local match (Benton County’s commitment, including ineligible costs, would be about $45,000). Chris Byrd, County Engineer, noted that right-of-way costs are not included as the County is acquiring right-of-way as part of a road project that will occur in 2021; further, right-of-way costs are not eligible for this grant funding. Headley clarified that this funding is for federal fiscal year 2025; however, counties can advance these projects and construct them sooner (if successful with the grant, the County could upfront the money and receive reimbursement later—there are dollars available in the county CIP fund). Popp questioned if there will there be sufficient right-of-way for the trail. Byrd stated “...it would be easier to acquire additional right-ofway on the east side of the roadway...there’s more development on the west side of the roadway...maybe we can have additional discussion at the upcoming committee of the whole...” Schlangen inquired if area property owners are aware of this potential project. Byrd stated “......the City of Rice is working on acquiring that additional easement on the east side...we are working on acquiring additional easement as part of that as well... right now, the residents are aware of a road construction project...maybe not necessarily a pedestrian trail at the edge of that...that would still need to be worked out with the landowners...” Gapinski noted that the application deadline for this funding cycle is January 8, 2021, stating “regardless of when it’s constructed, we should really move on that...” Gapinski/Johnson unanimous to adopt Resolution 2021- #6, “A Resolution to sponsor Transportation Alternatives Project funding for a bicycle and pedestrian trail connecting the City of Rice with Benton County’s Bend in the River Regional Park”, and authorize the Chair to sign. Heinen inquired of the maintenance costs for the trail. Byrd stated “...I don’t think this precludes us from getting into an agreement with another entity to perform that maintenance for us... the Feds are saying...if we give you money...we don’t want you to turn around and give it to some other entity or try to sell it... they want to make sure it’s staying in public ownership for its useful life...” Headley added “...I wasn’t expecting that we would ever do snow removal on it...we simply don’t have the staff resources to do so...” Byrd suggested that a clear, defined policy be established with regard to maintenance of the trail. Schlangen asked about the length of the trail (about a mile). Byrd commented “...we are applying for the funding now...we likely will not know if we are successful or not until March or April...the City of Rice is applying for a grant for the same program...we will be competing with the City of Rice, along with about eleven other counties in central Minnesota for about $1.5 million...” Heinen inquired if it would be beneficial for both Benton County and the City of Rice to join in on one grant application. Byrd stated “...I think that would have a negative effect because the trail that they are applying for is on the east side of Highway 10...trails that have been suc-

cessful in this program have been those which are regional in nature...the two trail segments are not connected...they serve different needs...” Heinen inquired of using park dedication dollars for the project. Headley stated “...there is about $85,000 spread out in twelve township buckets... the townships would have to consent to release their funds for this purpose...” Gapinski/Heinen unanimous to adopt Resolution 2021-#7, “A Resolution agreeing to operate and maintain for its useful life, a bicycle and pedestrian trail connecting the City of Rice with Benton County’s Bend in the River Regional Park”, and authorize the Chair to sign.

Headley referenced the proposed Letters of Understanding with each of the four law enforcement unions which would allow members who are above the 288 hour maximum on vacation accrual at December 31, 2020 to have until March 1, 2021 to use any hours above 288 before forfeiting those hours. He noted that a condition of allowing this extension must be a demonstration that the employee was denied the use of vacation time during 2020.

Johnson/Schlangen unanimous to approve the Letters of Understanding with Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc. and Teamsters Local 320, and authorize the Chair to sign.

Under Administrator’s Report, Headley detailed the monthly financial report through November 2020. He also provided an update on County facility access and additional measures taken in response to the COVID pandemic (security/enhanced sanitizing). There was Board consensus that the current level of building access was acceptable. In discussing the current level of contracted sanitizing services, Headley indicated that the current cost of $2,000 per week continues to be 75% FEMA reimbursed.

There was consensus of the Board to revisit this service/ cost when FEMA funding ends. Headley suggested that the county also explore hiring a temporary employee/county employee which is vastly cheaper than a contracted sanitizing service. Gapinski commented “...as individuals get vaccinated, over the next six months I think a lot of this is going to change...” Johnson commented “...at the end of the day, those FEMA dollars are still tax dollars...I think we should be reviewing this sooner than later...if we are going to continue with the sanitizing, I’d be inclined to hire someone locally instead of contracting it out...”

Board members discussed a number of meeting procedures: 1) consent agenda (consensus to not read the consent agenda items, with the exception of added consent items; consent items may be “pulled” for further discussion); 2) public hearing procedures (Chair is provided a streamlined script which sets the “ground rules”; must allow public to speak and be heard; Board members in agreement with current process); 3) open forum policy (Board members in agreement with current process); 4) distribution of County Board meeting packets (individual Board member choice of “paper” or “paperless”); 5) Commissioner Concern items (when possible, Board members will let Headley know in advance so the item is listed on the published agenda); 6) live streaming (consensus to live stream regular/special meetings of the County Board, but not informal Committees of the Whole); 7) Committees of the Whole (consensus to continue to schedule as needed rather than a standing Committee of the Whole schedule); and 8) employee forums (consensus to resume employee forums).

Board members reported on recent meetings they attended on behalf of the county.

Under Commissioner Concerns, Johnson stated his understanding that today’s agenda would include a County Board member appointment to the Planning Commission; the next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for January 14th. Following brief discussion, there was Board consensus to schedule a special meeting of the Board for January 12th at 10:30 AM to formalize County Board committee/board appointments (and schedule a Committee of the Whole prior to the special meeting to discuss these appointments).

Heinen/Gapinski unanimous to set Committees of the Whole: January 12, Discussion on 1) County Board committee/board appointments, and 2) county highway issues; and AMC County Government 101 virtual meetings (January 20 and 21, February 17, March 17).

Johnson/Heinen unanimous to adjourn at 11:10 AM. Edward D. Popp, Chair Benton County Board of Commissioners ATTEST: Montgomery Headley Benton County Administrator R-3-1B BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 12, 2021 The Benton County Board of Commissioners met in special session on January 12, 2021 in the Benton County Board Room in Foley, MN with Commissioners Scott Johnson, Ed Popp, Jared Gapinski, Steve Heinen and Beth Schlangen (virtual) present. Call to order by Chair Popp was at 11:51 AM followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.

Gapinski/Heinen to adopt the 2021 slate of County Board Committee/Board appointments as discussed and indicated at the previous Committee of the Whole. Motion carried unanimously per roll call vote.

Chair Popp adjourned the meeting at 11:53 AM. Edward D. Popp, Chair Benton County Board of Commissioners ATTEST: Montgomery Headley Benton County Administrator R-3-1B

SPORTS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | Page 11

Two strokes in the win column Swim and dive team victorious in opening meets

BY DANNA SABOLIK | STAFF WRITER

The Sauk RapidsRice boys swim and dive team added another win to their season Jan. 19 as they took on the Otters Jan. 19 at the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School pool in Sauk Rapids. They dominated almost every event. SRR outscored Fergus Falls 9861.

“It was great to have the whole team back together again after having some swimmers out on quarantine,” said Jason Tangen, head boys swim and dive coach. “We (the coaches) are very proud of those swimmers for doing the home workouts and giving this meet their best even though they’ve had so little time in the pool.”

SRR hosted the Willmar Cardinals Jan. 21. The team travels to Apollo High School in St. Cloud for a meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26, and competes against the Sabres at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, at Sartell High School in Sartell.

200MR: 1.

Jack Christoferson, Tucker Hendrickson, Hayden Zabinski and William Nielsen 1 minute, 51.17 seconds; 3. Chuck Peterson, Ben Hinz, Jaxon Young and Chris Anderson 2:25.68; and 4. Kyle Petermeier, John Moran, Steven Ritten and Cole Sowada 2:28.39. 200FS: 1.

Cash Walz 1:59.25, 2. Alex Lucas 2:05.30 and 4. Jack O’Brien 2:14.50. 200IM: 1. Nielsen 2:28.74, 3. Petermeier 2:47.66 and 4. Evan Scapanski 2:52.28.

50FS: 1. Hendrickson 24.05, 2. Christoferson 24.13 and 5.

Moran 27.31. 1M Diving: 1.

Elijah Grabinski 241.35 points, 2. Zabinski 164.10 and 3. Reid Johnson 147.10.

100FLY: 1. Hendrickson 1:01.90, 2.

Zabinski 1:05.10 and 3. Ritten 1:07.94. 100FS: 2. O’Brien 57.48, 5. Matt Woeste 1:05.38 and 6.

Sowada 1:09.37. 500FS: 1. Walz 5:27.2, 2. Noah Blodgett 6:48.28

and Young 7:01.95. 200FSR: 1.

Christoferson, Nielsen, O’Brien and Hendrickson 1:39.79; 3.

Lucas, Blodgett, Ritten and Walz 1:47.02; and 4. Ian Eichers, Scapanski, Sowada and Woeste 2:05.32.

SRR 104, Bemidji 78 The Storm made a splash against Bemidji Jan. 14 at home. Starting the season with a victory, the team gained confidence they will carry forward to future competitions.

“I couldn’t be prouder of our team,” Tangen said.

“Going into that meet, I figured we needed two points in order to get away with a win.”

The Storm surpassed

PHOTOS BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Hayden Zabinski takes a giant breath Jan. 19 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Zabinski and the Storm used their variety of talent to earn a 98-61 win over Fergus Falls.

that goal and defeated the Lumberjacks by more than 25 points.

The meet began strong in the first three events with the 200-yard relay securing first place. Key finishes in the 200 freestyle and 200 individual medley kept the momentum going.

Zabinski, a freshman, was named the Central Lakes Conference Performer of the Week in diving, for his best six-dive score.

“Not only did he have his top diving score, but he also logged in multiple personal best times in his relay contributions against Bemidji,” Tangen said.

200MR: 1.

Lucas, Hendrickson, Moran and O’Brien 1:52.89. 200FS: 1. Walz 2:00.18, 3. Lucas 2:07.76 and 6. Sowada 2:40.11. 200IM: 1. Hendrickson 2:21.59 and 3. Ritten 2:41.42.

50FS: 2. Christoferson 24.32, 4. O’Brien 25.60 and 6. Woeste 28.61. 1M Diving: 1. Grabinski 232.3, 3. Zabinski 163.65 and 4. Johnson 154.65. 100FLY: 3. Zabinski 1:05.40, 4. Ritten 1:09.04 and 5. Moran 1:11.90.

100FS: 2. Nielsen 56.16, 4.

O’Brien 58.79 and 5. Petermeier Evan Scapanski participates in the 100-yard butterfly 1:00.63. 500FS: 1. Walz 5:31.21, Jan. 19 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. 2. Lucas 5:43.14 and 5. Woeste Scapanski finished with an exhibition time of one minute, 7:16.73. 200FSR: 1. Hendrickson, Nielsen, Zabinski and O’Brien 32.22 seconds.

1:40.79; 3. Moran, Grabinski, Johnson and Ritten 1:56.80; 5.

Cole Messerich, Kolby Wagner, Talen Remer and Avery Nathe 2:56.83. 100BK: 1. Christoferson 1:04.07, 4. Petermeier 1:16.83 and 5. Sowada 1:45.05. 100BR: 1.

Hendrickson 1:07.76, 2. Nielsen 1:16.12 and 4. Moran 1:18.83.

400FSR: 2. Walz, Ritten, Lucas and Christoferson 3:53.42; and 3. Woeste, Sowada, Petermeier and Grabinski 4:34.50.

Tucker Hendrickson goes through the motions during the 100-yard butterfly Jan. 19 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Hendrickson took first in the event with a 1:01.90 mark.

Pulse on People

Braun receives master’s degree

Neisen, Aaron Peckskamp, Rose Rubenstein and DeKALB, Ill. – Jacqlyn Braun, of Sauk Rapids, Cora Weirens. received her master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics AMES, Iowa – Sauk Rapids residents Ashlyn from Northern Illinois University following fall 2020 Kotcho, Landry Seaman and Hannah Weber were semester. named to the Iowa State University fall 2020 dean’s list for achieving a GPA of 3.5 or greater.

WILLMAR – Rice residents Michael Gallant, Students named to academic lists FARGO, N.D. – Area students were named to the Ashley Hommerding and Leah Mohs were named North Dakota State University fall 2020 dean’s list for to the Ridgewater College fall 2020 dean’s list for achieving a GPA of 3.5 or greater. Those people are: achieving a GPA of 3.5 or greater.

RIVER FALLS, Wis. – Rice resident Matraca Rice residents Lily Benoit, Logan Chantry, Logan Hackett and Morgan Paulson; Sartell residents Conarro and Sauk Rapids residents Isabela Shane Corbett, Jessica Deters, Ryan Fernholz, Bukovich, Sydney Burk and Allison Stedje were Morgan Grasswick, Kyle Heying, Kaylan Kremer, named to the University of Wisconsin-River Falls fall Elizabeth Kucala, Jodi Lipp, Riley O’Connell, 2020 dean’s list for achieving a GPA of 3.5 or greater.

ST. PETER – Rice residents Austin Legatt, Mitchell Rolek, Anna Schmitz, Chloe Spoden, Aria Staiger, Rhett Staiger, Benjamin Yelle and Lauren Olivia Mokhtary and Mikayla Zaske as well as Yelle; St. Stephen resident Sammy Quaal; Sauk Sauk Rapids residents Megan Morris and Ashley Rapids residents Addy Demaine, Mallory Heder, Tapio were named to the Gustavus Adolphus College Emily Kath, Olivia Krepp, Clayton Lewandowski, fall 2020 dean’s list for achieving a GPA of 3.7 or Olivia MacDonald, Anneka Meinke, Abigail greater.

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SPORTS

Page 12 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Twins need to begin actively pursuing free agents We are less than a month away from pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training, and the only notable player the Twins have added to their roster this offseason is reliever Hansel Robles, who posted a 10.26 ERA last season with the COLUMNIST Angels. That is … not SPORTS

BY ANDY THAYER great.

The Twins have decided to move on from outfielder Eddie Rosario, lost relievers Trevor May and Matt Wisler, have yet to re-sign designated hitter Nelson Cruz, and will likely lose Jake Odorizzi, Marwin Gonzalez, Sergio Romo, Alex Avila, Rich Hill, Tyler Clippard and Ehire Adrianza as free agents.

This team has major holes all over its roster, and yet the front office seems content to wait until the end of the offseason to allow the free agent market to shake out and ensure they can secure bargain basement prices on leftover players. This has worked for the Twins in recent years when the rest of the American League Central Division teams were either rebuilding or running shoestring budgets, but that is no longer the case. The Chicago White Sox have already added Liam Hendriks (the best reliever available), outfielder Adam Eaton and borderline ace starter Lance Lynn to an up-andcoming roster that was already arguably superior to the Twins at the end of last season. If the Twins don’t add some good players soon, they are going to have little hope of defending the division championship they have won the past two seasons.

Let’s cut to the chase. The Twins need to sign an outfielder, an infielder with some positional versatility, at least one reliable starting pitcher and a couple more decent relievers in the next four weeks.

The good news is there are good players remaining on the free agent market. Marcell Ozuna, Michael Brantley, Justin Turner, Joc Pederson and Mitch Moreland are sitting there along with Cruz and Rosario as available free agent bats that the Twins should be sizing up.

Infielders Marcus Semien, Didi Gregorius, Andrelton Simmons, Jurickson Profar, Kiki Hernandez, Tommy La Stella, Jonathan Villar and Asdrubal Cabrera are all available. Starting pitchers Trevor Bauer, James Paxton, Masahiro Tanaka, Chris Archer, Taijuan Walker, Jose Quintana and Odorizzi are all potential contributors who are available. Relievers Brad Hand, Trevor Rosenthal, Alex Colome, Kirby Yates, Joakim Soria, Mark Melancon and Shane Greene join Clippard and Romo on the list of players the Twins should be considering.

If the Twins wait much longer to start making moves, the free agent landscape is going to be picked over completely. I understand some help is on the way with rookies Alex Kirilloff, Trevor Larnach, Ryan Jeffers, Brent Rooker, Edwar Colina and Jorge Alcala. However, these young players are inexperienced, coming off a season without minor league at-bats and innings and aren’t going to be ready to contribute in early April. The White Sox are building a juggernaut, and every game is going to be important this year if the Twins want to be competitive. Jake Cave, Willians Astudillo and LaMonte Wade Jr. are solid bench options, but if those guys are getting everyday at-bats, the Twins aren’t a playoff contender anymore.

Either the Twins front office isn’t showing a sense of urgency, or the Pohlads are once again tightening up their purse strings and refusing to spend the money required to field a winning team. I’ll give the Twins a couple more weeks to assemble their roster before I pass judgment, but things aren’t looking promising right now. The clock is ticking.

WarHawks hand Lumberjacks second loss Granite City returns to the ice after months-long absence

BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER

With the Granite City Lumberjacks returning for their first hockey games in almost two months, there was bound to be some struggles in getting back to their original form.

However, the expectations were not to the degree of difficulties the Lumberjacks experienced in their fourth battle against the Willmar WarHawks this season.

Granite City saw the game quickly get away from them, as the WarHawks slammed home three goals in the first period on their way to a 6-1 romp Jan. 16 at Willmar Civic Center in Willmar.

“We got exactly what we deserved,” said D.J. Vold, associate head coach. “We started slow and let them take it to us.

We didn’t assert ourselves a ton, which is behind the eight ball. It was like we forgot the game started at

7 p.m., and we thought it started at 8 p.m.”

Willmar defenseman Ethan Mock quickly gave the home team momentum, scoring his second goal of the campaign just 2 minutes and 27 seconds into the opening period. While the Lumberjacks searched for a responsive equalizer, Willmar kept finding room to operate in their offensive zone, tallying another goal behind the strong stick of Michael Sweetland, who recorded his first career hat trick.

“Their team is totally different from the first couple of times we played them,” Vold said. “They’ve made a lot of changes that ended up bringing in some good players. We told our guys after the game Friday night that if you go to Willmar just expecting to win, it’s not going to happen.”

Granite City responded

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energetically from their lackluster effort in the first period, outshooting their divisional opponents 15-7 in an entertaining second period that saw the Lumberjacks chip away at the threatening-yetsurmountable deficit. Ben Johnson, a rookie forward from Crystal, tallied his first NA3HL goal at 6:27 to give the visitors a fighting chance.

“He’s a guy who, if he’s playing hard and playing to his side, is hard to play against,” Vold said.

“He had a strong game, and we’re hoping he continues on the progression he’s at.”

Despite their newfound hope, the Lumberjacks failed to find the scoreboard again against Willmar goalie Will Pinney, who compiled 34 saves on 35 Granite City shots. Meanwhile, on the other end of the ice, the Lumberjacks defense struggled as goaltender Brandon Shantz was tagged for six goals allowed, including three more goals in the final period.

W a r H a w k s defenseman Jack Willis tied for the game-high in points with four, notching four apples.

“We have to start games fast and finish fast,” Vold said. “If we only play one good period a night, we’re going to lose a lot of games. We have to be ready for puck drop, and then we have to have the conditioning to carry it through 60 minutes.”

The loss sends the Lumberjacks to a 7-2 record, leaving them tied with Willmar for second in the West Division at 14 points, with Granite

City having seven games in hand. They returned to Sports Arena East for a long-awaited home competition, taking on the New Ulm Steel.

The Lumberjacks will face the Steel once more at noon Wednesday, Jan. 27, at Sports Arena East in Sauk Rapids.

“We need to prepare like it’s any other game, but we know that we have to be ready because every night in our division is tough,” Vold said.

Lumberjacks 5, New Ulm 3 Nothing seems to faze Carson Simon.

The Granite City captain was simply dominant in the Lumberjacks’ first game back since resuming their season, piling up four goals in a 5-3 victory over the New Ulm Steel Jan. 15 at New Ulm Civic Center in New Ulm. New Ulm seized the first lead of the game, entering the first intermission with a 1-0 lead.

However, the second period belonged entirely to the divisioncontending Lumberjacks, who buried three goals in the 20-minute timeframe, including two from Simon just 29 seconds apart.

Not to be outdone, the Steel responded with vigor, receiving scores from James Spaargaren and Joey Gimberlin in the first eight minutes of the final period to lock things up at three.

Simon’s third tally of the contest at 13:40 proved to the game-winner, as Granite City added an empty-net goal to seal their seventh triumph of the season.

SPORTS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | Page 15

Storm wrestling drops

two close contests

Sauk RapidsRice hosts intense triangular

Compete at conference tourney Jan. 30

BY NATASHA BARBER | STAFF WRITER

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

The Sauk RapidsRice wrestling team faced a major challenge when they took the mat against the Tech Tigers in their second competition of their opening triangular.

The Storm, having dropped their first bout versus Brainerd, looked to take any matchups they could against a roster boasting two ranked athletes and a strong middle of their lineup.

U n f o r t u n a t e l y, despite a hard-fought effort, they could not overcome the Tigers’ strength, losing 37-30 Jan. 15 at Sauk RapidsRice High School in Sauk Rapids.

“We had wrestlers that competed really well, and we had some that didn’t,” said Cole Wilson, head coach. “In order to win duals, we need all 14 guys to do their job and overachieve.”

Achieving success on the mat was the top of the Storm lineup, with 106-pound athlete Vance Barz picking up a win by fall to start the matchup off, followed by a technical fall victory from Alex Diederich. After Jack Barz continued the streak with a 19-10 major decision triumph, SRR already led 15-0 over their cross-town rivals.

Storm dance debuts in Brainerd, Anoka

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Matt Krepp attempts an escape move Jan. 15 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Krepp, despite his best effort, lost in a 3-1 decision.

“Scoring big points at the beginning of the dual will be huge for our team,” Wilson said.

“When those guys give us a great start, we need the rest of the lineup to follow through.”

Unfortunately for the Storm, it was difficult to find success against the powerful technique Tech presented in later battles.

Eighth-ranked Jaxon Kenning rolled past Brayden Ness in a 10-0 major decision in the 126-pound contest as Tech won seven out of eight matches to seize decisive control.

In between the team’s struggles to slow the Tigers down, Andrew Wollak and Cole

Ackerman left the mat with positive results, with the former pinning his opponent at 15 seconds and the latter doing so at 0:23. “ H a v i n g upperclassmen in the lineup is important,” Wilson said. “These are our leaders and we look to them to perform well. We need more of these guys.”

No. 10 Tucker Hugg sealed the victory for Tech with a pin against Dane Dingmann in the 220-pound match. SRR senior Joey Hoeschen had an impressive 6-0 win by decision to close the match on a high note.

The Storm went up against the Little Falls Flyers Jan. 21. They will look to find their winning ways at a triangular against Bemidji and Sartell at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26, at Bemidji High School in Bemidji.

“Bemidji will be a challenge, and our guys need these challenges,” Wilson said. “With this season not allowing any in-season individual tournaments, we have to try and expose our higher-caliber wrestlers to talented competition.”

Wrestling page 16

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Joey Hoeschen maintains his position Jan. 15 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Hoeschen was one of four Storm wrestlers to go 2-0 in their first two appearances.

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The Sauk Rapids-Rice dancers had new accessories when they hit the floor this past weekend. The team donned the required pandemic masks as they performed their high kick and jazz routines.

“It is a little bit different with them having masks on, but you can really still tell with their eyes what their face is doing,” said Ali Mohr, varsity head dance coach.

Behind those masks were the bright smiles of Storm dancers, excited to have finally reached a contest after a long-awaited start to their competitive season.

SRR competed at the Anoka Invite Jan. 18 and debuted their routines Jan. 16 at the Brainerd Kixter Invite. The Storm placed third in high kick and seventh in jazz in Anoka and placed second in high kick and third in jazz in Brainerd.

“It was interesting to see our (Anoka Invite) placement with jazz, getting seventh, when that was our better performance,” Mohr said, who added that timing was off in the jazz performance in Brainerd.

A limited number of schools competing in pods over a day’s contest has limited the Storm’s ability to watch others – even their own junior varsity – perform. But, Mohr said it will not affect the Storm’s routine.

“The scoresheet comes down to what you’re doing,” Mohr said. “So, this year I think it’s really good and refreshing that we’re just focusing on our scores alone. It doesn’t matter what other teams are doing and it really never has; it’s just part of the competition of it. This year, we don’t have that option, and that’s OK.” Mohr is happy with the team’s drive and said she has never had to push her dancers harder.

“They do that for themselves because they want it,” Mohr said.

SRR has a two-week break before appearing at the Central Lakes Conference Saturday, Jan. 30, at Sartell High School in Sartell. Mohr said they will spend the time cleaning up routines and timing.

“We have to look at it that we are week two into the season, and so we are just happy that they are out there,” Mohr said. “We have a ways to go, but we always have a ways to go when we’re week two into the season.”

Brainerd Kixter Invite High kick: 1. Brainerd 377 points (rank points 3), 2. SRR 351 (6), Rocori 342 (9), 4. Crosby 297 (12) and 5. Moorhead 273 (15).

Jazz: 1. Brainerd 357 (3), 2. Rocori 327 (8), 3. SRR 322 (9), 4. Bemidji 280 (13.5), 5. Crosby 263 (15) and 6. Moorhead 256 (16).

Anoka Invite High kick: 1. Anoka 390 (3.5), 2. Brainerd 385 (5.5), 3. SRR 343 (11), 4. Rogers 333 (12.5), 5. Forest Lake 326 (14), 6. Elk River 312 (18.5), 7. St. Cloud 296 (19), and 8. Moorhead 260 (8).

Jazz: 1. Anoka 369 (4), 2. Brainerd 362 (5), 3. Rogers 333 (11), 4. Forest Lake 331 (14), 5. Elk River 329 (14), 6. St. Cloud 308 (18), 7. SRR 298 (20) and 8. Moorhead 220 (24).

SPORTS

Page 16 | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

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from page 15

106: Vance Barz won by fall at 0:26. 113: Diederich won by technical fall 19-4.

120: Jack Barz won by major decision 19-10. 126: Ness lost by major decision 100. 132: Ethan Anderson lost by fall at 1:22. 138: Wollak won by fall at 0:15. 145: Reid Kiffmeyer lost by decision 2-1. 152: Kieran Hixson lost by fall at 3:56. 160: Dante Haywood lost by decision 9-2.

170: Graham Doherty lost by fall at 1:42. 182: Matt Krepp lost by decision 10-5. 195: Ackerman won by fall at 0:23.

220: Dingmann lost by fall at 3:09. 285: Hoeschen won by decision 6-0.

Brainerd 36, SRR 33 Despite an exciting start, the Storm were handed their first loss of the season against the Brainerd Warriors, falling 36-33 Jan. 15 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids.

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Wrestling

PHOTOS BY EVAN MICHEALSON

Dante Haywood raises his opponent into the air Jan. 15 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Haywood won his first match of the campaign in a 10-4 decision.

Vance Barz and Diederich won by decision and fall, respectively, giving the hosts an early advantage.

However,

106: Vance Barz won by decision 6-0. 113: Diederich won by fall at 0:53. 120: Logan Culbertson lost by fall at 1:08.

126: Ness won by decision 9-4. 132: Anderson lost by fall at 1:31. 138: Wollak lost by decision 1-0. 145: Owen Scheeler lost by fall at 3:43.

152: Kiffmeyer lost by fall at 1:14. 160: Haywood won by decision 10-4. 170: Krepp lost by decision 3-1. 182: Ackerman won by fall at 3:06.

195: Aiden Kortuem lost by fall PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON at 1:29. 220: Dingmann won Sauk Rapids-Rice wrestling head coach Cole Wilson talks by fall at 0:11. 285: Hoeschen to Brayden Ness in between periods Jan. 15 at Sauk won by fall at 1:59.

behind huge pins in the 120-, 132-, 145- and 152-pound matchups, Brainerd effectively played catch-up and eventually captured the victory with a win by fall

by Shane Carlson in the 195-pound clash.

Ness, Haywood, Ackerman, Dingmann and Hoeschen each gathered victories in their first appearances of the season.

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Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Wilson’s Storm squad went 0-2 in their first triangular of the season.

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Leading the

Adyson Froiland Grade: 12

Parents: Erik and Aby Froiland Accomplishment: Senior on the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School girls basketball team.

What is your favorite part about basketball? Working as a team with every play and how fast the game is.

What is your favorite thing to do with your team? Pregame meals and watching the junior varsity team, just talking strategy or what we think we should work on.

How do you prepare in the minutes leading up to competition? We talk about our pregame goals and see what the junior varsity team did that

Leading the Storm is

How do you make a difference at school? By saying “Hi� to anyone and being kind to everyone.

Which teacher has impacted your education most? Mrs. Levinski, because she is always willing to talk about life and can put a smile on your face at all times.

Who has been a mentor to you? My worked well or not so well, and how mom, Aby, is one of my biggest role models because she believes that we can do that or fix that. everyone deserves a chance and is What other activities are you forgiving. involved in at school? Soccer and What is your favorite meal, movie, Storm Leaders. social media and song? Pasta, “Pink Why is it important for you to Panther,� Snapchat and “Do Better� by be involved in school activities? Lil Donald.

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Sauk Rapids Herald SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021

e c i R s d i p a R k Sau

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SRR Storm hats off to thee!

To our colors true WE shall ever be Firm and strong united are we Rah! Rah! Rah! Sauk Rapids-Rice Rah! Rah! Rah! Rah! Rah! For Sauk Rapids-Rice

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The Sauk Rapids-Rice wrestling seniors are Matt Krepp (from left), Andrew Wollak and Joey Hoeschen. The Storm look to improve on a 5-3 conference record last season, and mat experience and a dedicated training regimen should benefit their wrestlers. Not pictured is Carter Legatt.

Sauk Rapids-Rice continues to build culture

proved to be later than originally expected, as the winter sports season faced a significant delay following the

BY EVAN MICHEALSON stability. implementation of Gov. STAFF WRITER “Culture does not Walz’s Dial Back plan. graduate,” he said. “We During the nearlySAUK RAPIDS – continue to hold high month-long pause, the Every offseason, high standards for our athletes Storm managed to stay school sports teams and leaders will step up active through athlete experience some degree to fill those roles. These attentiveness. of turnover, leading leaders will help develop “As a staff, we were to significant roster and continue to sustain committed to keeping our adjustments. Some years, the culture we want our kids focused on wrestling the impact resonates more program to have.” during the pause,” Wilson than others.

The Storm’s return said. “We provided Zoom For the Sauk Rapids- from a first-round section workouts, film study Rice wrestling team, an loss at the hands of and mental training. Our extreme loss was eventual Section 8AAA strength coach Brady felt when allchampion Bemidji Roden also play played a huge time match wins role in keeping kkids active leader Jaredd Spohn during this ttime.” and the restt of an T h i s experienced ced aration p r e p “As a staff, we were senior class ss o u l d s h committed to keeping our kids graduated. ppay huge focused on wrestling during the pause.

Losing ddividends We provided Zoom workouts, film study so many a ffor longtime roster and mental training. Our strength coach f a c e s rreturning Brady Roden also played a huge role in can be several keeping kids active during this time.” difficult forr h a r d - head coach Cole Wilson a program m working to immediately ately veterans of the vetera resolve, but ut head including sport, coach Cole ole Wilson senior Andrew 100-win senio believes in the h S Storm’s ’ Wollak and various impressive athletes at each weight class. While many members of the Storm lineup have seen noteworthy amounts of mat time, Wilson and the Storm coaching staff believe success will be found through the wrestlers’ work in the (320) 251-2552 weight room as opposed to lined up against another www.tri-countyinsurance.net wrestler.

“Training is more important than competition,” Wilson said. “Our wrestlers are

committed to progressing and improving every day. We’re working on developing skills, strength and conditioning to better prepare us for the section and state tournaments.”

Last season, the Storm finished 11-9, including a 5-3, third-place Central Lakes Conference mark. Continuing to develop as hard-working individual athletes to form a well-oiled wrestling machine will take all of the exercises, matchup examinations and playing to strengths. However, more than anything in the first month of 2021, it will take mental fortitude.

“As a staff, we’re committed to making sure our athletes are conscious of the world outside of the room,” Wilson said.

“This season will be one of attrition. We must do all we can to help prevent any more pauses in our training, and I believe those are precautions we are taking that set us up for success at the end of the season.”

While concern and challenges will likely linger as the shortened campaign takes its course, the Storm wrestling team is focused primarily on improvement, and their student-athletes are more than ready to get underway and prove their dedication to the game they love.

“It’s very exciting to be back,” Wilson said.

“Wrestling is a sport that demands commitment, so those involved are passionate about the sport and to improving every day.”

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | Page 3B

WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Tumbling for

today, tomorrow

Unsure season puts pressure on Sauk Rapids-Rice gymnastics team

BY DANNA SABOLIK STAFF WRITER

The threat of COVID-19 shutdowns loom, making coaches this year wary of the season ahead. That is no different for Sauk Rapids-Rice gymnastics coach Elizabeth Walek.

“I’m looking most forward to being together this season,” said Walek Dabout what will be her kfourth season coaching dthe high school team.

Last year, the team took sixth out of eight teams in Section 8AA. The team has practiced in-person but with precautions.

“As long as we’re together, we will have a successful season,” Walek said. “We’re happy when we’re working hard, supporting each other and doing gymnastics.”

Walek has a lifetime of experience with the sport and brings that zeal to the team she coaches.

“I love (gymnastics),” Walek said. “I love sports in general, but gymnastics is my bread and butter.”

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Sauk Rapids-Rice gymnastics team captains consist of junior Vanessa Lwiza (from left), sophomore Carley Weisenbeck, senior Kenzi Schmitz and senior Justus Floren. The team participated in its first meet Jan. 22 in Brainerd.

The seasoned coach has been leading teams since she was 17 years old and worked full time coaching club gymnastics year-round until 2015.

“It was a shift to get used to new girls, new schedules and different roles I needed to serve as a coach,” Walek said.

With the unprecedented year, the team plans to take the season one day at a time, doing their best with the time they have.

“I would love to say we hope for achievement

goals, but we know we have today and we appreciate that,” Walek said. “The kids are so resilient and brave.

They’re doing what they need to do, respecting the process and precautions, and I’m extremely proud to see them making the most of it.”

Senior captains Justus Floren and Kenzi Schmitz lead the team with the other captains Vanessa Lwiza, junior, and Carley Weisenbeck, sophomore.

“Carley was all-

around all conference last year and beam all conference,” Walek said.

“She’s very deserving of her captain role. She’s a great leader for the team.”

Schmitz is a standout on the beam and vault, and Floren is another good all-around gymnast.

Lwiza makes her mark on the floor with her powerful tumbling.

In addition to returning gymnasts, the team is rounded out with a handful of new athletes.

“The seventh through 10th graders all bring so

The seasoned coach h has been leading teams ssince she was 17 years old and worked full time coaching club g gymnastics year-round until 2015.

much to the table,” Walek said. “They’re a special group of kids with great attitudes. They bring a lot to the team.”

The Storm’s first meet was Jan. 22 in Brainerd.

Ryan Stack Michael Opsahl Paul Nordquist

“We’re excited to have a meet in whatever capacity that looks like,” Walek said. “We’re all looking forward to it.

We will figure it out and enjoy it.”

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Page 4B | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Talent meets

Storm boys basketball team possesses rare athleticism

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – Derek Peterson has seen his fair share of skilled basketball players don the green and gold as head coach of the Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm boys basketball team.

Despite all of the acclaimed hoops talents he has coached, he believes this year’s Storm roster could bring something unique.

“They’re by far the

fastest team I’ve ever coached and are probably one of the more athletic teams I’ve ever coached,” Peterson said. “We’re quick and athletic, and I’m hoping the basketball skills are all there.

We have some skilled basketball players this year.”

After a 2019-20 campaign of 11-17 that saw the Storm lose nine games in a row, this superlative statement is certainly a promising early sign. However,

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there is a lot of work to be done. While Peterson is quick to note Sauk Rapids-Rice’s adept athleticism, the Storm will have to ensure they translate those physical gifts into triumphs if they want to reach their goals.

“Every night, it’s a grind, and it would be a great accomplishment for us to win the conference and go over .500 in the conference,” Peterson said. “I think those are great goals.

Could we accomplish more than that? We could, but we’ll have to play well and give effort every single night and work hard.”

Boys basketball page 5B

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

The Sauk Rapids-Rice boys basketball captains consist of Alex Harren (from left), Ryan Moilanen and Ethan Opsahl. The Storm have displayed elite quickness and athleticism in early practices as the team looks to improve on an 11-17 campaign.

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PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

The Sauk Rapids-Rice girls basketball seniors consist of Keanna Guggisberg (front, from left), Mia Turner and Brynn Seaman; (back, from left) Emily Schloe, Adyson Froiland and Kyanah Evans. The Storm expect their experience to be a positive in a shortened season.

Sauk Rapids-Rice girls basketball show enthusiastic signs

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – Despite carrying a tough first-round playoff loss to Sartell-St. Stephen into what proved to be a long offseason, the Sauk Rapids-Rice girls basketball team starts a new season armed with a large degree of optimism.

After all, the Storm won eight games in 2019, five more than the previous year, thanks in part to winning six of their last nine regular season contests. And with the team resuming

practices Jan. 4, the excitement to continue that positive momentum is immeasurable.

“It’s like you have a caged batch of monkeys here that are just excited to do something,” said Jon Roesch, head coach. “There’s a lot of enthusiasm. We’re going to have a lot of fun this season, and we’re also going to work hard and stay as safe as we can.”

The instilled emphasis of working hard is driven by the squad’s large batch of seniors, who are all longtime members of the program.

Kyanah Evans, who was second on the team in points with 200 on her way to a Central Lakes Conference Honorable Mention selection in 2019, should be one of the team’s brightest faces

at the wing. Adyson Froiland was one of two Storm players to reach at least 100 points and 140 rebounds last winter, and she will provide a reliable presence within the paint as the team’s starting post player.

Also representing a stout senior class are forwards Emily Schloe, Ahmiaya Turner, Keanna Guggisberg and guard Brynn Seaman.

“We have six quality senior players, a lot of experience coming back this season,” Jon Roesch said. “They’re starting to fill out and mature, and we expect big things out of them.”

While Sauk RapidsRice’s main core is heavily comprised of seniors, the team only has two juniors: forward Corina Miller and guard

Analeise Martinson.

As a result, the Storm’s youth composition will have an increased opportunity to make an impact.

Sophomores Grace Roesch, Mia Rogholt, Belle Haddy and Mackenzie Felchle each recorded at least 30 field goals in 2019, and expectations are high.

“Being another year older, (having) another year of experience, knowing you can compete against these top teams we have in the area and that we can compete night-in and night-out in practice, it can make us better over the season,” Jon Roesch said.

Girls basketball page 7B

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | Page 5B

WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Still getting their

Boys basketball

feet wet

So far, Peterson has seen his players flash positive mental and physical traits, and the makeup of the team suggests that perhaps these goals are within their aim. Ethan Opsahl should see a lot of court time as a dynamic senior guard capable of finding driving lanes and pulling back for 3-pointers. But, it will take more than the thirdyear starter’s production for the Storm to leave the court victorious come game days.

“I’m sure he’ll have a positive year and will be a leader for us, but other guys will have to step up around him to make him better and to make our team better,” Peterson said.

Bolstering an already strong group of studentathletes are guards Elijah Moilanen, Dominic Mathias and Mason Rudolph, who provide a key playmaking element to a team looking for sparks all across their lineup. Meanwhile, forwards Alex Harren, Carter Loesch and Andrew Harren will look to create spacing through physical play within the paint, a task that may be trickier than in previous seasons.

“The one thing that’s different than any team I’ve coached is I don’t have a true big guy,” Peterson said. “I’ve always had 6-foot-8, 6-foot-9 guys in the middle, plugging it up. We don’t really have that this year, and we’ll do some different things because of it.”

Despite the clear differences between last season’s and this season’s Storm team, some general standards remain. Games will often hinge on whether or not players can make open shots and stay away from foul trouble and turnover woes.

Close contests might not always go SRR’s way.

However, as their competitions begin, the Storm maintain a belief that they can do great things.

“What’s nice about it for me as a coach and for the guys out there is they know they can do it,” Peterson said. “There’s that hope. We have a chance every night, and that’s what’s fun. We may not win them all, but we have a shot.”

from page 4B

Storm hopes for better second year competing at Class AA level

BY DANNA SABOLIK STAFF WRITER

The Sauk RapidsRice boys swim and dive team found out the competition in Class AA is much more intense than Class A. Last season, the Storm moved up a class from Section 3A to Section 8AA. This year, head coach Jason Tangen hopes to keep health threats at bay while getting his feet wet as a first-time boys swim and dive coach and helping the athletes thrive with their new level of competition.

Regardless of the tougher competition, five of last year’s swimmers and divers competed in the section tournament and two in the state competition.

Four of the five team members graduated, but returning state competitor Elijah Grabinski will be diving for the Storm his senior year.

“We hope to get better across the board improving swimming times and diving scores,” Tangen said.

“We would love to be more competitive in Class AA.” Tangen is joined by assistant coaches Gerard Kulzer and John Solberg, and diving coach Henry Ewers.

Team captains Tucker Hendrickson and Grabinski, both seniors, return after strong stats from last season.

The junior class has high participation, and Tangen is looking forward to seeing the gains they will make throughout the

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Tucker Hendrickson (eft) and Elijah Grabinski stand on the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School pool deck Jan. 20 in Sauk Rapids. The two senior captains return with strong stats from last season.

season.

Alex Lucas is a freshman swimmer to keep an eye on, as well as Hayden Zabinski, a freshman diver who is also competing in relays.

“It was very exciting to see them perform at the first meet and know their potential,” Tangen said.

Cash Walz is another name to watch, according to Tangen.

“He (Walz) had a breakout seventh grade year last year and looks to really, really improve in eighth grade,” Tangen said. “He’s going to be just on the edge of going to state this year.”

Tangen is excited for Grabinski, returning all-

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conference diver. “(Ewers) has been working with Elijah for many years, and I’m excited to see what they can accomplish this year,” he said. “He is probably the best high school diver in central Minnesota.”

Tangen has high hopes for the Storm’s second season competing in a strong section.

“We’re going up against teams like Minnetonka and Edina, not Sartell or Little Falls,” Tangen said. “We went from being the biggest fish in the little pond to something totally different.”

Tangen said for every strong Storm swimmer,

their competitive teams have five swimmers of the caliber.

Tangen said his worries are shared with other coaches, athletes and fans alike: COVID19-related shutdowns.

“We all saw what happened in November and December,” Tangen said. “Everything could get shut down like that.

We are going to swim every race like it could be our last.”

Tangen encouraged fans to watch meets via the school’s YouTube page, SRR Activities, because spectators are limited at meets.

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Page 6B | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Storm look to shock with new head coach For boys hockey, experience is critical

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – In any form of athletics, changing from one coach to another is sure to produce shockwaves to the approach and culture of a program.

This will be true for the Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm boys hockey team, who saw 2006 Sauk Rapids-Rice graduate Brady DeGagne take over as head coach.

Despite the alteration, DeGagne is not an unfamiliar presence as the former Storm athlete has been mentoring many of his players since they played youth hockey.

So, while DeGagne is nervous, he believes in the squad’s longestablished experience to be an advantage in what could be a unique

PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

The 2021 Sauk Rapids-Rice boys hockey captains are Easton Portner (from left), Noah Jensen, Cayden Christensen, Brandon Bokelman and Landon Lunser. With 12 seniors occupying the roster, the Storm are expected to rely on experience and leadership to carry them over the hump.

season.

“I think it helps that I know all of these kids,” DeGagne said. “I know what to expect from them, they know what to expect from me. I think that helps greatly.”

D e G a g n e understands what each skater can bring to the table, helping to build

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hockey team is not extreme, either. With 12 seniors, the Storm have seen extensive total ice time across their high school careers.

DeGagne foresees an overall lineup built around leadership.

“I see the seniors we have as fantastic leaders and fantastic role models for younger kids,” kids, he said. “How we can get ge them to be those role models is going to m be more challenging, m “I see the seniors we but that th experience and that knowledge and have as fantastic leaders and mindset of ‘team m fantastic role models for younger kids. over self’ will play o How we can get them to be those role into that the most.” i models is going to be more challenging, One such but that experience and that knowledge method of teamm building is stability. b and mindset of ‘team over self’ will play With standout W into that the most.” defenseman Brady def - head coach Brady DeGagne graduating, Pesta incoming senior incom Landon Lunser will be Lando switching from forward switch to defenseman, helping to provide depth. With valuable assets like defensemen Caleb Euteneuer, Noah Jensen and Carter Kayser, and up-and-coming talents like freshman forward Teagan Dodge, positivity is high.

“We’ll be a fast, quick team this year,” said Riley Weinand, goaltender.

a diversified roster with talent across the board.

Behind returning scorers Brandon Bokelman, Easton Portner and Cayden Christensen, who tallied 19, 18 and 15 points last season, respectively, the Storm’s top two lines are built to bury pucks, with the final two lines offering a contrasting yet equally

effective outlook.

“We’re going to have the ability to put four full lines out and be effective,” DeGagne said. “We have a deep group of hardworking, gritty kids. Our top two lines will put pucks in the net, and our third and fourth lines will be able to keep pucks out.”

The learning curve twoto become a two dimensional

Almost as importantly as the team’s willingness to improve is their preparation. The players participated in a bridge league over the summer and during Gov. Tim Walz’s pause on youth and adult sports, the Storm watched film together twice a week, participated in workouts put on by Sauk RapidsRice activities and practiced their puckhandling. For these players, it was a major outlet to harness and collect their mental fortitude.

“Sports is camaraderie, and the big thing is that emotional and social well-being that we as coaches are trying to provide, trying to keep kids mentally involved as well as physical,” DeGagne said.

Sauk RapidsRice will hit the ice as soon as the window for competitive events opens. They traveled to Mora to face the Mustangs Jan. 14.

“I hope we come out and surprise people,” DeGagne said. “I hope we can get to the point and be happy with not only what we put out on the ice, but also what we achieve this season.”

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | Page 7B

WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Post-quarantine production

Girls basketball from page 4B

With a condensed season and an unknown future when it comes to postseason, setting realistic preseason goals is difficult. With an aura of confidence, however, Coach Roesch expects his team to be competitive and aim for conference acclaim.

“I’m not going to put a number of wins and losses on it,” he said. “We want to compete for a conference win and compete for any playoffs we have beyond that.”

The most important aspect of the return to girls basketball is that the team is taking the court healthy.

With the Minnesota State High School League implementing additional practice and competition guidelines, the Storm will be required to wear masks at all times, an environment they are still getting adjusted to.

“This is our first exposure to it,” Jon Roesch said. “I think they’re doing OK so far. We just want to make sure we stay healthy and don’t have to shut down at any point here. That’s going to be vital for us.”

With their players’ eager attitudes back in the gym, Sauk Rapids-Rice hopes their early-season excitement can translate into success.

“There’s going to be a lot of nervous energy, a lot of pent-up energy,” Jon Roesch said. “Hopefully, we can keep our emotions in check to play well and not make a lot of simple mistakes.”

Storm’n Sabres seeks success through hard work

BY EVAN MICHEALSON STAFF WRITER

SARTELL – To the Sauk RapidsRice-Sartell girls hockey team, earning eight Central Lakes Conference victories and ending the 2019-20 season as conference srunners-up seems like sages ago. Their last game eagainst Buffalo Feb. 8, e2020, took place about aone month before the ecoronavirus pandemic .began to affect everyday nlife, an occurrence that ,has affected the team meven now, 10 months ,after its introduction. s After a quarantine -wiped out a large portion dof early practices, the -team has returned to ebuild on last year’s rpromise, grateful to be dback. l “It’s nice to be out here,” said Marty sAnderson, head coach. g“Everyone is having lfun, and that’s the most timportant thing.” g Adding to the panticipation for the dupcoming campaign is ”the sustainable depth the cooperative brings to the stable. While the team wloses last year’s leading sscorer Anna Orth, they dwill be retaining a great edeal of forward options, including Lauren tWensel, Nora Sauer, ”Mallory Heder and ecaptain Rachel Wieland, twho logged 19, 17, 15 tand 14 points during nthe 2019-20 season, erespectively.

“I think we have two equal lines at the top that will play a lot, and we have multiple players that will fill in on that third line and provide us with depth,” Anderson said. “We’ll have to learn on those top five or six forwards that have some experience.”

The Storm’n Sabres also hope to rely on their defensive pressure for offensive opportunities.

Morgan Cromwell, who compiled 15 points and scored two gamewinning goals in her

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PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON

The Sauk Rapids-Rice-Sartell girls hockey captains are Rachel Wieland (left) and Ingrid Buiceag-Arama. The cooperative looks to improve on a second-place Central Lakes Conference finish behind experienced offensive and defensive pairings.

previous campaign, will be expected to lead the way in that facet.

Tia Vogt and Erika Johnson will also serve as versatile athletes capable of both guarding and attacking. Because of this, it should be a common sight to see SRRS players swarming to the puck.

“We work really hard, so we hope other teams will have a tough time breaking the puck out,” Anderson said.

“We should have a relentless forecheck and defenseman who can really move with the puck that will contribute on the scoresheet.”

And while the team possesses considerable experience in its forward and defense groups, their goaltender occupying the crease will be receiving her first expansive looks.

Freshman Morgan Dorn has no varsity saves to her name but managed to soak up information through sitting behind All-State goalie and longtime starter Chloe Stockinger. Dorn will not be expected to maintain the level of Stockinger’s production immediately, but Anderson and the coaching staff have high hopes for the young

talent.

“I think she’s gained a lot of confidence over the course of the last year and over the summer, and that confidence should only increase as she sees her successes,” Anderson said.

Dorn is the only fulltime netminder on the roster, but Chloe Reiter, a trained forward, is taking in junior varsity goaltending minutes to be prepared as a secondary option for the team.

“She’s a team player,” Anderson said.

“She volunteered to do that and that’s one of the most unselfish things I’ve seen in my years.”

With the backand-forth nature of the team’s offseason and the uncertainty as to what the competition will look like, it is hard for the SRRS girls hockey team to have an idea as to whether this year’s team can make progress and reach the top of the summit. It all depends on how well they take in the natural flow of the game.

“Getting adjusted to the speed of the game, especially with some of the players who haven’t played that much, that’s always a

shocking experience because game speed is always much quicker than practice speed,” Anderson said. “How quickly we can get ourselves up to speed against some really quality competition will dictate how we get started.”

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Page 8B | SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

All set to fall in line

Storm dance kicks off its season after pandemic delays

BY NATASHA BARBER | STAFF WRITER

With one week of practice under their belts, the Sauk Rapids-Rice dance team pressed pause on their performances Nov. 20, 2020, when Gov. Tim Walz enforced pandemic restrictions to youth and adult winter sports. Yet, the music played on.

After a five-day period of choreography, tryouts and a run-through of the kick and dance routines, the Storm dancers shifted to remote practice, tuning in by teleconference, to practice choreography.

Now, they embark on a condensed season.

The Storm high kick and jazz teams competed at Brainerd High School Jan. 16 and Anoka High School Jan. 18 after a 10day in-person practice period that started Jan. 4. The team has a total of seven regular season

contests this year.

“Our biggest thing we’re working on right now is our kick height and our technique of leaps and jumps in jazz,” Ali Mohr said. “Kick height is definitely something we strive for every year.”

Mohr is entering her fifth season as the head varsity dance coach at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. She is joined by assistant high kick coach Jennie Weber and assistant jazz coaches Shantelle Des Marais and Kirsten Beehler.

The 23-member varsity team is led by senior dance captains Sarah Anderson, Veronica Peacock, Bella Peplinski and Maddie Richards.

The four, along with an additional four seniors, have proven their leadership to Mohr over

the past couple years and will provide stable guidance in a season of uncertainty.

“The seniors we have this year have been very strong ever since sophomore year,” Mohr said. … “We lost some very talented girls last year (to graduation), but we also have an extremely talented group of seniors this year.”

The team is smaller than normal due to coronavirus restrictions.

Dancers may only compete on varsity or junior varsity, not both, and only a maximum 25 dancers can be rostered. Mohr said SRR typically rosters up to 36 participants.

Mohr said because of the condensed season and the challenges students and athletes have faced since spring 2020, the dance team was allowed to choose the music to their routines.

“This year we just wanted them to have fun,”

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Sauk Rapids-Rice High School dance team captains consist of Veronica Peacock (from left), Bella Peplinski, Sarah Anderson and Maddie Richards. The Storm’s season began Jan. 16.

Mohr said.

High kick will be dancing to a compilation of Pitbull songs entitled, “Mr. Worldwide,” and jazz will perform “Dance with Somebody,” a variation of the classic Whitney Houston tune.

“They’ve always wanted to do more of a lyrical type dance and

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that’s what this is,” Mohr said of the jazz number.

“And really, just like the song ‘Dance with Somebody’ that’s all they’ve been wanting to do, and we couldn’t do that for the longest time with COVID-19. So, that’s pretty meaningful to them.”

Storm dance competes in Section 4AAA, and Mohr said central Minnesota, in particular, brings tough competition to the floor from both AA and AAA schools. No matter if scoring side by side against Central Lakes Conference or section competitors, SRR will need to bring their best effort and skills to each regular season contest, sections and potentially state, which will take place March 12-13.

“We have such a top section; it really is anyone’s game,” Mohr said.

SRR scored shy of a state appearance in 2020, placing fourth behind Brainerd, Anoka and

Blaine in both kick and jazz. Mohr said those three schools, along with Forest Lake, Duluth East and St. Michael-Albertville, will continue to challenge the Storm. St. Cloud’s TechApollo dance cooperative also joined Section 4AAA this year.

“And Rogers entered our section last year, and they have a whole new coaching staff and they’ve really come a long way too,” Mohr said. “It is a tough section, and you never know how it’s going to end up.”

Still, Mohr wants her team to focus on the now – improving what they can and having fun in the process.

“We don’t know if we’re going to get an entire season, if they will decide everyone has to be shut down again or if our team will be quarantined,” she said. “So, really for us, it’s just make every single performance better than the last and dance every chance that we can because it’s not guaranteed.”

PHOTOS FROM THESE GAMES NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE

Wrestling vs. Tech Tigers Boys hockey vs. River Lake Stars Boys swim and dive vs. Fergus Falls Find them online at www.saukrapidsherald.com under ‘photos’